Perfect Harmony [[For Akira&Shiki and Yukio]]

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Watching Riku rush off, Tatsuo frowned lightly before deciding to follow the man. The other manager seemed worried about something and though Tatsuo had no idea what that was, he was curious. Besides, he wasn't about to leave Aoi alone without him being there to step in if need be.

 

"As you wish, Mina" Aoi smiled warmly as his eyes remained on the obviously excited girl.

 

Watching the model and female singer interact, Aoi couldn't help the amused chuckle that left him. It was almost like watching a pair of children go at it over something extremely trivial. Though his friends did tend to indulge in minor arguments from time to time, it never got tiring to watch how things played out.

 

Shifting his weight from one leg to the other as he continued to watch, Aoi shook his head in a mild sign of exasperation. He didn't think he could get sick of this. Quite frankly, both Eiji and Mina's behavior was kinda adorable even if they didn't realize it themselves.

 

Gently taking the notebook from Mina, Aoi flickered a glance over at Eiji when the girl started looking for a pen. Noticing the look his shot him, Aoi raised a brow but made no further attempts to leave. He simply released a soft entertained sigh before turning his eyes back on Mina.

 

Reaching into his back pocket, Aoi produced a pen while saying "Mina, I got it. Don't worry about it...And Eiji, leave poor Mina alone. That's not very gentlemanly". Though he was chastising the man, his tone was light and teasing in nature.

 

Opening the notebook, Aoi quickly wrote down a charming little note about how "pleasurable it was to meet such a talented singer" before he signed his name under the note and passed the notebook back to Mina. "There you are, Mina" he said calmly.

[Akira&Shiki]

Mina gushed at Aoi's words, knowing that she wouldn't usually hear those type of words from another idol… especially one in her field. She hugged the paper to her chest and looked at Aoi.

 

"Thank you," she said. "I really appreciate it."

 

She headed to walk out, but before leaving, she turned to Aoi. "I'll buy your next album, I promise! I'm you're greatest fan, after all."

 

Hearing her words, Eiji frowned a little bit. He wasn't going to fight a girl for Aoi's attention… well, maybe he was. He just knew that arguing with her or exchanging nasty remarks did nothing to help him. He just let her comment slide, still feeling unhappy about it.

 

But before she disappeared out the door, he said, "Yeah, whatever, cow."

 

Oh shoot… he had totally ignored his prior thoughts and had openly provoked her. But Mina did not react to the provocation. She just walked out, as if she didn't care. Though Eiji knew she cared.

 

As Mina left, she passed Riku and Tatsuo. Riku called out to her without thinking. When she turns to him, he regretted his action.

 

"Yes?" she asked.

 

"Did you harass Eiji?" Riku asked.

 

Mina frowned, but there was undoubtedly a hint of embarrassment on her face. "I did nothing of the sort. That uncouth…!"

 

Riku just sighed. "Well, tell your manager that I'll contact him later."

 

"About what?" Mina asked.

 

Riku shrugged knowing that she wasn't supposed to find out. "Oh, nothjng~"

 

In frustration, Mina stomped away. Back in Eiji's hospital room, the air had become still and silence enveloped the room.

 

Eiji finally turned to Aoi and said, "She's a nuisance… but it's okay. She's bice, I guess… when she wants to be."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

"Any time, Mina-san" Aoi replied kindly, letting the smile remain easily on his face as he watched the other singer. If wasn't often interactions like these took place, singers didn't often gush over another singer's music. However, on the off times stuff like this did actually come to play, they were all trained on how to act courteously and kind.

 

Chuckling at Mina's words, Aoi winked at her and nodded "I appreciate and am pleased to know that you're my greatest fan. It's always a relief to know that I'm not in danger of being mauled by a crazed civilian".

 

In a way, though he knew the claim would be fought over by many other fans, he was happy that at least a member of his same world was his "greatest fan". At least Mina knew how their life worked and she wouldn't be trying to assault him at every turn as would an ordinary civilian fan.

 

"You'll have to let me know when you come out with an album so I can buy one in return. I wouldn't want to miss out on a chance to hear your songs" he said lastly as she turned to leave for real this time.

 

Blinking surprised over at Eiji at the model's words towards what appeared to be a nice young girl, Aoi raised a brow in confusion and mild curiosity. He didn't know what was going through Eiji's mind but if didn't seem to be anything good.

 

Watching a young girl walk past them, Tatsuo glanced over at Riku when the man called out to her. With his hands stuffed into his pockets, Tatsuo watched the interaction between the two with mild curiosity sparkling in his normally impassive eyes.

 

Once Mina was out of earshot and eyesight, the man turned his attention on Riku. "Is there something I should be worrying about?" He asked.

 

Tatsuo wasn't one to push his nose into others business unless it concerned someone he cared deeply about, nevertheless he found this exchange of words a bit odd at best.

Blinking again at Eiji when the model finally spoke up, Aoi sighed and shook his head in exasperation. Choosing to lower his walls just a hint while he was here, the Idol walked over to plop down on the side of Eiji's bed. Crossing one leg over the other, Aoi did something he had often done to Eiji when the man exasperated him with his actions. It was an action of the past, but at the moment he didn't care.

 

Raising a hand, he reached over to gently flick Eiji's forehead before he pulled his hand back and rested it comfortably folded on his lap.

 

"I've gathered that she's nice, she seems like a sweetheart to be honest. I don't expect anything less of her.....but that's not the problem"

Opening his previously closed eyes, Aoi turned his head slightly to look at the model before asking "Why don't you like her? And don't say it's nothing. I'm not blind, Eiji, I can clearly see the tension between the two of you. What's wrong about her that it puts you off so much?"

[Akira&Shiki]

Hearing the other manager's question, Riku stopped walking. Was there something Tatsuo needed to know about? It wasn't top secret, so it wasn't something to hide.

 

"Well," Riku said. "Yesterday, I believe, Mina-san's producers wanted she and Eiji to have a publicized relationship, but Eiji quickly shut that one down. Her manager contacted me after that, telling me that Mina-san did, in fact, want to do some type of project with Eiji. I think she has small feelings for Eiji, but with their conflicting personalities, that's nothing to even worry about. But anyways, I am collaborating with her manager to work something out. That is all. There's nothing to be concerned about."

 

Riku sighed, and muttered quietly, "Unless you think otherwise."

 

In surprise, Eiji felt his forehead in the place that Aoi had flicked it.

 

"That hurt!" he exclaimed in a mix of embarrassment and happiness.

 

Why was he happy? Because he knew that Aoi hasn't shown that type of endearing action in years. It could bring tears to Eijis eyes if he hadn't been so prideful.

 

When Aoi inquired about why he disliked Mina, Eiji sighed. He didn't want to sound petty and childish by explaining that he had hit on her before, but she completely turned him down. That was only a part of the reason.

 

"I don't understand her," he finally said. "Years back, maybe three years ago, I tried hitting on her… you know, one of my stupid habits… and she flat out rejected me. I was a little butt hurt, but I let it go. And usually, after turning someone down, you'd expect her to not have any contact with me unless it's actually needed. But contrary to that, she came to me, the next day! She picked a fight with me, and ever since, she and I were always arguing, I guess. I just don't get her. She's not even that cute. So why…?"

 

He looked at Aoi. "You don't have to answer. I know I'm being childish, but she's just so… ugh."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Humming softly under his breath, Tatsuo gazed up at the ceiling of the hospital hall while he continued to walk down it. Hands simply stuffed in his pockets, he analyzed what had been said before shrugging a bit.

 

"I don't see any problem in that, I suppose. Making a project with a popular singer like Mina would probably benefit your Model quite a bit. It would possibly push up his own popularity amongst the fans, that's for sure. I don't think anyone would have a problem with that.....Though you should think further on the whole relationship thing. In our world, we depend on certain aspects to keep us floating and in the eyes of the media. We benefit from our fame and we thrive from our fans. Even if Eiji does not want a relationship with Mina, you need go consider what those supporting your Model want. What his fans crave. What his fans are waiting for. Read into fan comments and requests and see about actually setting your Model into a relationship that will keep him afloat and the talk of many" Tatsuo remarked.

 

It was a speech he often gave those in Celestial when his singers found themselves a bit lost. Celebrities often made higher names for themselves if they answered to the wills of their followers and fanatics. That was no hidden fact.

 

However, it all depended if the Celebrity wanted to follow their fans wishes.

 

"You deserved it " Aoi replied, playfully rolling his eyes as Eiji's exclamation. Though he had had his reservations on using the particular form of endearment, it seemed as of he had nothing to worry about in the end.

 

Raising a brow at the explaination he received, Aoi pushed down the jealous he felt twisting his insides in favor of trying to come up with a proper response for the Model laying on the bed.

 

"Have you ever thought of apologizing? I understand being rejected must have been horrible for the great Eiji....however, not everything always goes the way you want it to....You should know that by now" Aoi began, tone gentle though the words were honest and close to home.

 

"Think of it this way. What if Mina-san had a small crush on you prior to meeting you. When she does get a chance to meet the person that has her affections, said man instantly begins to flirt with her without any hesitation or care. Now understandably some girls might like that, but maybe Mina isn't one of them. Perhaps she thought you had more "class" than that or something of the sort, so in turn you disappointed her and caused her to develop a whole different view of you as a person. Thus every time she sees you now, perhaps her way of fending off any of your flirtatious nature, is to fight with you" Aoi concluded with a small shrug.

 

Tilting his head at the Model, he shot the man a small yet warm smile before adding "I'm sure if you apologize for your actions and are genuine about it, Mina-san will stop causing fights every time she sees you.....Of course that is as long as you don't provoke her".

[Akira&Shiki]

Eiji laid his head back and sighed. "You're right. I didn't take that into consideration… I guess I've been an idiotic jerk lately…" He looked at Aoi. "I'm sorry that you had to hear me sound like such a jerk… now that I think about it, that's embarrassing. It's good that you're here, then! You've always got a clear head and great insight. I hate to admit it, but you're so much more mature than I'd ever be."

 

Those were his true thoughts. He had always looked at Aoi as a guidance. He kind of looked up to Aoi and he was sometimes jealous of the much maturer singer.

 

Eiji quickly covered his mouth with his hand. "Oh! I'm sorry…! I…!"

 

Meanwhile, Riku looked at the experienced manager. "You have point… a very valid one at that. But about the relationship… I'd prefer to be a foolish and naive manager than let Eiji become subject to a publicity stunt. Yes, the fans of both Mina-san and Eiji would be happy. But how would Eiji feel? Yes, they don't get along, but because they are both professionals, they'll settle their differences. And that will work. But how would Eiji feel?"

 

He paused for a moment and sighed heavily. "Eiji still loves Aoi-san… it's none of my business to say so, but it's true. I don't want to subject him to even more heartbreak. I know… call me selfish or foolish… but I just can't do it."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

"You don't have to apologize. We all have our moments of flaws. Even I am not perfect, no matter what others might think or say" Aoi replied kindly. God, he knew better than anyone that he wasn't perfect....even if he tried to be for the best of everyone. He had just as many flaws as the other person. However, Aoi knew how to hide his misgivings and most of his emotions behind a perfectly constructed mask. Something he had been able to do since he was young and had to endure the arguments of his parents.

 

Chuckling softly at Eiji's words, Aoi shook his head while passing a hand through his hair. "Don't apologize....there's no need" he smiled at Eiji.

 

"I might seem mature and have a clear mind....but it's not always easy to be that way. Like I said, I have my flaws as well. However, for the sake of the people I care about and my family, I try to fill the role of role model that is expected of me. Even if I have to sacrifice many things to make sure those I love are better off for it" Aoi stated calmly, shrugging a bit at his words. They seemed harsh, perhaps sad even, but they were the truth.....about so many things.

 

"Honestly though, I envy how free you can be. You don't seem to be afraid of anything, and you always appear to stay true to yourself.....I wish I could be that way....But things don't always go as you want them to" he put in as almost an after thought.

 

Looking at Riku as he spoke, Tatsuo couldn't help but feel a bit of surprise and even admire the younger manager a bit because of his views. It wasn't everyday he met someone like this, who wished to protect the best interests of his or her Charge. To be honest it was a breath of fresh air.

 

"Eiji still loves Aoi, huh?" Tatsuo mussed with a small smile and a raised brow. "Well I guess we're both in the same boat as their managers because Aoi still very much loves Eijj.....I would even say with all his heart.....Nevertheless, Aoi probably won't act upon it, he won't want to damage Eiji's reputation now that your Model has a rather good footing in the world of fame. Aoi is too honor bound, he won't ruin someone's career just because of his feelings for them".

 

Sighing and shoving his hands deeper into his pockets, Tatsuo practically breathed out "Besides, Aoi is subject to an arranged marriage inside his family right now so that would probably compel him even more to stay focused on his responsibilities instead of doing something to make himself happy.....He probably thinks Eiji is better of with someone without such baggage on them".

[Akira&Shiki]

Riku watched as Tatsuo seemed genuinely surprised at the fact that Eiji still had residual feelings for Aoi. And it was vice versa, as well. But as Tatsuo said, Aoi seemed to think that Eiji was better off, especially since his career had been so important to him. But when he heard the news about Aoi's arranged marriage, Riku sighed and tussled his hair.

 

"Oh my… I know that it's none of my business, but how does Aoi-kun feel about this?" And in truth, he just wanted to hear Tatsuo's take on this situations. He knew as much as the other manager that most arranged marriages, especially with families like Aoi's, were forced. But like he had said before, that was none of his business.

 

"I just hope Eiji takes it the right way… well, that's if Aoi-kun plans on telling him," Riku muttered to himself. He knew Eiji. And he knew that Eiji loved Aoi. If Eiji had to hear that news, how would he feel? He would most definitely feel hurt. But how deep would that hurt be? And would Eiji be able to recover?

 

Eiji listened to Aoi, realizing that the singer didn't prioritize his happiness as the first. Why did he put others first?

Didn't he love himself?

 

"Aoi," Eiji said, watching the singer that he held dear, "I know I can't just pry into your life after four years and criticize you, but don't you feel unhappy sometimes? You know, like you're being restricted or something like that?"

 

Eiji sat up and shook his head. "No… I'm sorry. You don't have to answer that."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Exhaling a heavy breath, Tatsuo closed his eyes for a moment as he responded. "He hates it....with every fiber of his being. However, he has never been one to turn his back on the responsibilities to his career and his family. Many of us have offered to try and persuade his family to change their mind, but Aoi won't have any of it. If he doesn't agree to the demands of his family, they will turn they're eyes on his younger siblings and Aoi would rather sacrifice himself before he let's them take the freedom away from the loved ones he has protected all his life after the divorce of his parents".

 

Looking down at Ritsu when the other manager mentioned Eiji, Tatsuo gave out a helpless shrug. "I don't know how this situation will go. Aoi.....he loves Eiji, like I said before, but he'll always put Eiji's happiness before his own. Should he try to go back into Eiji's life, he'll be endangering your Model's career and his family would throw a fit. Aoi's parents might be fine with Eiji entering a relationship with their son, but his grandparents would raise hell. Mostly the grandparents on his mother's side of the family".

 

Gazing forward one again, he added quietly "Knowing all that, Aoi might not want to tell Eiji anything about the arranged marriage.....but he'll probably do so anyways. He might not go into the details of why he's doing it, like what I'm telling you, but he'll let Eiji know about the marriage".

 

Glancing over at Eiji curiously at his question, the singer couldn't help but feel the want to lower his guard a bit and actually tell the other man what he genuinely felt....instead of lying like he normally did.

 

"No, I should answer you.....what would it hurt anyways?" Aoi chuckled softly, though his tone was a bit empty and lacking of emotion.

 

"To be honest, yes I do feel unhappy...but there's nothing to be done about it. I've learn to simply deal with it and move on. Though things might seem hopeless sometimes, I have people that do genuinely make me glad I'm still here. The members of Celestial my personal band, Tatsuo, my parents, my siblings...even you, Eiji....even if you find that hard to believe. You all give me the strenght to stand under all the pressure and chains. I won't give up because they need me and I need them".

 

Sighing and turning his gaze on the far wall, Aoi continued "However, my happiness isn't really important. As long as the people I love are happy and safe, then that's all the matters to me. My life belongs to those I love and I will do anything for them, no matter what the cost".

 

Turning to face Eijj, he smiled sadly at the man he still loved before adding "This is why I have to say this, even if it kills me. Any feelings you might have for me.....Eiji, it's best that you kill them now. Nothing good will be able to come out of it...It's best that you forget about it because........because I am getting married soon enough"

 

Getting up, he walked towards the Eiji and bent down to do something common sense shrieked at him not to. Pressing a soft, loving kiss against forehead, Aoi hesitated a moment before moving lower to press a chaste, quick kiss against Eiji's lips. "Forgive me, Eiji....but this is for the best. Please, forget whatever you feel for me...please...it'll only make things harder than what they have to be.....You deserve so much more than me" he whispered softly.

 

Quickly straightening, he turned his back on the Model and walked towards the door.

 

Blinking rapidly to ward off the tears he felt gathering in his eyes as he felt his heart rebel against what he knew he had to do, Aoi paused at the door briefly to call back over his shoulder without turning "I hope you get well soon, Nakahara-san".

 

With a deep breath, Aoi opened the door and slipped out. Taking a moment to collect himself, the singer began to walk down the hall in a slow but steady pace. Catching sight of his manager just a few feet down the hall, Aoi instantly called out to him.

 

"Sousuke, shall we go?"

 

Taking one look at his singer, Tatsuo frowned deeply before nodding. "I hope Eiji gets released soon, Riku. I'm sure you'd prefer to have him on his feet instead of stuck here" Tatsuo said a bit absentmindedly to Riku, offering the man a small hint of a smile.

 

Without hesitating or wasting more time, Tatsuo walked up to Aoi and together, the pair headed down the hall towards the elevators and the entrance of the hospital.

[Akira&Shiki]

As Eiji listened to Aoi, his heart broke. It wasn't because he was being told about the engagement. Yes, that most certainly did hurt him. But what hurt him most was the fact that Aoi wanted Eiji to forget any feelings he had. Any residual feelings… to squash them. But Eiji knew that he couldn't just rid of such strong emotions. If he couldn't get rid of them four years ago, what made Aoi think they would go away at present?

 

There was no way that Eiji would give up. There was no way that he'd let Aoi go. Yes, Aoi was accepting that engagement. And yes, he flatly rejected him. But Eiji couldn't give up. He couldn't just ignore his feelings. He was fed up with that.

 

Despite his strong emotions, he watched as Aoi left. He watched in silence, feeling helpless. Watching the back of the one he lived leave, Eiji felt naked and vulnerable.

 

Riku shook his head in all helplessness. There was nothing he could do. It seemed that Aoi had his own problems that were burdening him. Any other emotions added onto Aoi's back could break him. When Aoi came and called out to Tatsuo, Riku nodded his response and watched as they left. He knew that something had happened.

 

Aoi, who usually masked his true emotions, looked disturbed in a way and Tatsuo have a gruff frown. Plus, the singer-manager duo made haste when Aoi asked to leave. Riku knew something had happened, so he immediately went to go check on Eiji.

 

In his room, Eiji was clenching his hands into fists, angry. Hot, angry tears streamed down his face. The usually playful Eiji looked like a wreck as well. Riku walked up to the model and sat at the edge of the bed.

 

"Eiji," he muttered, taking the hand of the other.

 

Eiji didnt respond to Riku, but instead said, "He called me… Nakahara-san…"

 

Riku sighed and hugged the model closer. "It's alright."

 

"No…" Eiji wiped away his tears. "It's not alright."

 

"I know," Riku said, hushing the other. "He told you about the marriage?"

 

Eiji immediately pushed Riku away. "You knew?! Riku, you knew?! How could you…? Why didn't you tell me!"

 

Riku shook his head and calmly grabbed Eiji's hand. "I just found out myself, a few moments ago, in fact. Tatsuo told me."

 

"That's not fair…" Eiji mumbled, pressing his head against his manager's chest.

 

"I know… but Eiji, that's life."

 

Eiji knew that. He knew that life wasnt always fair. But he wanted it to be, especially in this case. But he couldnt do anything about it. And that was what hurt the most.

 

"I wont just let this happen," Eiji whispered.

 

Riku tssked and forced Eiji to lay down. "Rest. You can't do anything until you're released. So rest."

 

Eiji nodded and watched as his manager got a chair from the table and brought it to the side of the bed. He watched Riku for quite some time and watched as the older man dozed off. Eiji sat up and watched his manager some more. He was thankful for this man. He didn't know what he would do without him.

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Sitting quietly beside his manager as their chauffer drove them to their condo, Aoi stared blankly down at his hands. His normally perfectly sculpted mark was obviously crumbling at the seams but he valiantly tried to keep the wreck he was feeling, sealed inside.

 

"You told him didn't you?" Tatsuo's gruff voice snapped Aoi out of his thoughts.

 

Blinking and lifting his gaze to the surprisingly soft storm gray eyes looking back at him, Aoi finally allowed his last defense to fall.

 

Leaning over, he rested against Tatsuo's side as the older man lifted a hand and gently carded it though his long hair in a comforting motion. Though it looked intimate, both knew it was simply almost a brotherly habit the two had developed.

 

"I had no choice.....it was best he knew. It would avoid anymore drama and he wouldn't be hurt" Aoi mumbled softly, face buried into Tatsuo's chest, blue eyes closed. Shutting the world out.

 

"Perhaps, but look at the state you're in because of it. You're so close to being broken, kid. I'm worried about how much more you can take" Tatsuo replied, tone filled with his brotherly love for the younger man.

 

"I'll be fine. As long as the people I love come out untouched, then it'll be all worth it" the singer answered.

 

"The prince always protects his people, huh?"

 

"Yes, always. Until his dying breath"

Glancing down at the Idol, Tatsuo released a weary sigh before saying "Then as one of the Prince's knights, I will try mu best to protect him".

 

That got him a grateful little smile just as the car came to a stop outside their home. Opening their doors, the pair slipped out and walked into their sanctuary where the rest of Celestial surely waited for them.

 

----------------

 

Standing backstage a few days later, Aoi listened to the chatter of the audience just a few feet away. All around him, custom artists, makeup artists, stage crew, etc. ran around trying to do their jobs and get the concert on roll.

 

"You ready, Ai-Ai?" Tohru asked from where he had popped up next him with the rest of Celestial.

 

"As ready as I'll ever be" Aoi replied with a quick grin, flickering his gaze over at his friends as they smiled back.

 

It had been a long couple of days since he had left Eiji at the hospital. Though he had tried to act like he was fine and nothing was bothering him, Aoi knew he couldn't keep up the facade for much longer.....Quite frankly, he was exhausted. Not only because he had barely slept at all since he had left Eiji for a second time. But because the stress was starting to get to him.

 

Tatsu had informed him that he had sent the passes to both Riku and the Model but Aoi doubted either of them would show. Not after what had happened.....Nevertheless perhaps it was for the best.

 

"Kamui-san, over here please!"the sound of his personal makeup specialist caught Aoi's attention.

 

Walking over to her, he plopped down in the chair she signaled him to and closed his eyes to allow her to put a black liner around them. Something she said made his ocean blue gaze pop out all the more.

 

"Are you alright, Kamui-san?" Her soft voice once again captured his wandering mind. "You seem to be a bit tired today"

 

"I'm fine, Natsumi-san. Don't worry about it. I just didn't sleep much last night is all. Call in nervousness" Aoi replied with a gentle smile.

 

Right now he couldn't afford to be asked his condition when he had his fans to please in a few minutes.

[Akira&Shiki]

It took Eiji one more day to recover. By the time his body had healed, he still refused to get out of bed. Riku had no clue what to do with this model. Should he just let Eiji be? Or force him to get up and face the world? The latter sounded the best, because Eiji needed that extra push.

 

Once Eiji finally got to his apartment, Riku had visited him more than usual. He made sure that Eiji had eaten, taken his medicine, etcetera. Eiji seemed even more depressed after being taken out of the hospital. His liveliness had disappeared. And this was all because of an old romance from four years ago.

 

"Eiji, you're going to have to get up sooner or later. Remember that photo shoot at the beach?" Riku asked, handing the mod a bowl.

 

Eiji looked at his manager, his eyes tired and dry. "Oh… that."

 

Riku sighed. "Yes. They postponed it. You need to get out of bed, either way. You'll become unpopular if you stay indoors all day."

 

"I don't care," Eiji spat.

 

"So you don't care if your mother is abandoned by your stepfather? Eiji, I hate to say this, but man up. You have an image to uphold. Holing yourself up in your room does nothing," the manager said, dragging the covers from on top of the model.

 

With a groan, Eiji rubbed his blonde hair. "Fine, fine… I'll get up."

 

Riku, feeling triumphant, took Eiji into the kitchen. "Good. Now eat up. We're going to meet Mina-san."

 

"We're doing what? Riku…" But then Eiji stopped, remembering Aoi's advice. "No… actually, let's go."

 

Riku looked at the other man in confusion and concern. "Um. Well then…"

 

"What?" Eiji said, walking to his refrigerator to get something to drink.

 

"You can't go visiting her with bags beneath your eyes. This is why I constantly tell you to get rest, Eiji."

 

Ugh… Riku was scolding again… Eiji blocked his manager's scolding and thought more about Aoi. Aoi… the poor guy… It almost brought tears to Eiji's eyes when he thought about Aoi. Eiji sighed heavily and sat back down, feeling depressed all over again.

 

Riku noticed. "What's wrong?"

 

Eiji sighed again. "I'm thinking about Aoi… I know he's getting married. But Riku, he doesn't think about his own happiness. He puts others in front of himself. And I… I can't stand that. I hate it to the point that I want to cry. I know it's selfish of me, but I really wish to know what would make him happy."

 

"And how will you find that out?" Riku asked.

 

"I don't know… I guess I could ask him. But I don't think he wants to see me anytime soon."

 

And just when Eiji said that, someone rang the apartment doorbell. Riku got up to answer it, then soon came back with an envelope.

 

He handed it to Eiji. "It's for you. It's from Aoi-kun."

 

Eiji quickly grabbed it to see that it was indeed from Aoi. He opened the envelope to see the content: two tickets. Tears burned his eyes as he looked at it.

 

"What's wrong?" Riku asked.

 

Eiji wiped the tears away as he answered, almost choking on his words. "It's the tickets to the concert… I thought he wouldn't send them…"

 

"Do you want to go?"

 

"Of course!" Eiji exclaimed. "I'm going to go!"

 

"Didn't you just say that he probably won't want to see you?" Riku asked, taking the tickets so that he got a good look at them.

 

"I did…" the model admitted. "But I love Aoi's singing… I'll just stay in the back of the concert hall, out of the way. I don't want him to feel awkward seeing me there."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

The closer he got to the start of the concert, the more restless Aoi felt himself become. It was like this during every show, when the waiting proved to be the most challenging part of the performance.

 

Bouncing lightly on the tips of his toes, Aoi listened to Celestial finish their opening performance on stage. Though he was part of the group and logically should be out singing and dancing with them, he had agreed with Tatsuo to sit this opening out just so he could give his best during the rest of the concert.

 

"We know he was supposed to be out here with us just now, but we promise he's waiting just backstage to give you guys his all for the rest of the show. Ladies and gentlemen, please give a warm welcome to....KAMUI AOI!!!!"

 

Listening to the deafing roar of the audience when Celestial gave the cry that would signify his appearance, all saying his name in unison, Aoi took in a deep breath. Giving the few stage hands beside him a thumbs up to show them he was ready, Aoi didn't flinch as the platform he was standing on beneath the stage began to rise as the sound of one of his songs began to play.

 

A deep layer of mist covered the stage, making it nearly impossible to see the dancers, band or the singer within it, but that was perfect for his first song which had a bit of a darker touch to it.

 

If Aoi thought the screams had been loud before he had come onto the stage, it was nothing compared to when the first word of the song escaped his lips. The eruption of the cheers and screams of excitement echoed in his chest and Aoi could almost feel the stage and walls vibrating with their intensity. All the Idol's previous worries and thoughts that had been pulling him down seemed to vanish as he took in his fans and felt their love for him. For tonight, nothing would distract him from giving them one of the best performances of their lives. For tonight, he would be the Kamui Aoi that had all come to see and loved.

 

Several songs later, towards the end of the concert, Aoi could already tell that the show had been a mighty success. Not only were his fans jumping around, singing and dancing along to a few songs and cheering nonstop for him, but on the few occasions he had gone backstage for a quick custom change or hair style change, Celestial and several of the stage hands had been jumping around and singing along as well. Even Tatsuo was sporting a rather large smile, a rarity for how serious and stern the man appeared to be.

 

Though his heart was still very much hurting, the pain had been pushed momentarily down by the love he felt pouring over him. Something he returned tenfold towards the sold out concert hall.

 

In the middle of one of the pauses between his last songs, Aoi took a moment to interact with the audience as he had been doing during several times in the concert.

 

"Is everyone having a fun time tonight?!" He called out to the people who eagerly answered him back with screams of happiness.

 

"I didn't quite get that...I asked is everyone is having fun tonight?!" Aoi called out a bit louder, a teasing note in his voice as a grin lifted his lips.

 

The deafening roar that greeted him this time filled him with pride and happiness.

 

"I'm glad to hear that.....Alright, we're gonna slow things down a bit for right now. The next song is one I hold special to me and is directed to someone I care for very much....I hope you all like it"

 

Lowering his mic, Aoi walked over to where his band waited. Handing his guitarist his mic, the singer quickly tied his long hair up away from his sweaty neck while exchanging a few words with his band. After a quick nod, he grabbed his microphone again and faced his fans as the music began to play.

 

Give me your laughter as a gift,

Teach me to dream

With just a caress

I lose myself in this sea

Give me your star,

the one that lights up this night

full of peace and harmony,

and I will hand my life to you.

 

You make my sky

Have that blue again,

Spots of colors,

My mornings are only you.

I sail among the waves of your voice,

and you, and you, and you, and only you

make my soul awaken with your light

and you, and you, and you...

 

Show me your wounds and so I will heal them

That the whole world knows

That your voice keeps a secret.

Don't mention your name, for in the heavens

they die of jealousy

Your eyes are sparkles

Your throat is a mystery.

 

You make my sky

Have that blue again,

spots of colors,

my mornings are only you.

I sail among the waves of your voice

and you, and you, and you, and only you

make my soul wake up with your light

and you, and you, and you, and only you

make my soul wake up with your light

and you, and you, and you...

 

Don't mention your name for in the heavens

they die of jealousy

Your eyes are sparkles

Your throat is a mystery.

 

You make my sky

have that blue again,

spots of colors,

my mornings are only you.

I sail among the waves of your voice

and you, and you, and you, and only you

make my soul wake up with your light

and you, and you, and you.....

 

Once the last cord of the song played and his voice faded, Aoi did everything he could to resist taking a step back when the crowd roared it's approval and hands reached out towards him. Chuckling, the young singer moved forward to grasp a few of the hands stretching out to them.

 

Though his grandparents had wanted him to dedicate that song to the woman he was going to marry, Aoi knew in his heart that the song he had just sung could only belong to one other person.....even if it was the one person he had hurt deeply, not once but twice.

 

Going through two more songs, Aoi was getting ready to perform the last one when a familiar yet surprising melody began to play. Gazing back as a figure walked upon stage, Aoi didn't think twice before joining the female singer in the song even if the surprise was clear in his eyes as he gazed at her. Something she found a great amusement by the laughter in her emerald colored hues.

 

Hyuuga Erika was a very old friend of Aoi's. In fact, they had been friends since before his relationship with Eiji. It had been Erika who had helped the pair get together, for she had been a mutual friend of both of them.....even when the singer had disliked the model. Erika had been the key piece of bringing them together, however when Aoi and Eiji had been forced to separate, Erika had chosen to leave a few months later to start a tour around the world as she continued to work on her modeling and singing.

 

Aoi had been keeping in touch with her, however he didn't know if Erika had been keeping in touch with Eiji. Considering the three of them had been very good friends.

 

Turning his attention back to the crowd, Aoi smiled at the sense of familiarity as he sang with the friend he had missed dearly for so long. Their voices harmonized one another perfectly, making each grow in force and power. They're movements matched one another and their actions on stage showed their clear affection for the other.

 

By the time the song ended and the crowd roared, the pair made their way backstage to allow Celestial to close the show.

 

"Erika, you idiot. Why didn't you tell me you were coming?" Aoi demanded as he embraced the girl tightly while she giggled in his arms, hugging him back just as fiercly.

 

"I wanted it to be a surprise!" She exclaimed cheerfully.

 

"Does Eiji know you're here?"

 

"No, honestly no one but Tatsuo knew and agreed to keep it a surprise. I wanted get all of you by suddenly appearing here to sing with you"

 

"I swear, you're lucky I love you as much as I do. I could just kill you" Aoi chuckled, causing the girl to give him a cheeky grin.

 

"Hey now, I figured I could come and do some damage control after I heard of the project with you and Eiji. Where is he by the way? I thought you gave him tickets to come?" Erika asked, tilting her head to one side.

 

"I don't know. I'm sure he received the tickets but I'm not sure if he'll come....not after everything" Aoi sighed, sadness touching his voice even as the girl tightened her arms around him.

[Akira&Shiki]

Gaining the motivation to get out of his apartment, Eiji got ready and was soon on his way to the recording studio where Mina would be. His first step would be to apologize to her. She would probably be freaked out once he did so, but he didn't care. Aoi had told him that he should apologize, which seemed best.

 

As soon as Eiji and Riku came to the recording studio, Mina and her manager, Hojo Fukuhara, were leaving. They had come right on time.

 

"Mina!" Eiji exclaimed, waving her over.

 

Mina, looking surprised and a little flustered, walked to him, holding a piece of paper in her hands. "Yes, Eiji?"

 

"There a couple of things… one, I wanted to apologize. I guess that I'm an idiot and I have a tendency to be pretty rude, so forgive me for anything that I've done in the past to offend you!" Eiji bowed stiffly, to everyone's amazement and surprise.

He usually didn't express himself that way which was so humble and apologetic.

 

Mina smiled softly. "I see… I guess I can accept your apology, since it came from the heart. Did Aoi-san tell you to say these things?"

 

Riku knew that this would be the part that Eiji messed up big time. If he gave the impression that Aoi had told him to apologize, Mina would get very offended.

 

But before Riku could intervene, Eiji spoke up. "He didn't tell me to do if. He suggested it. And I just went from there… because I felt like an idiot after he told me that I may have offended you… so yeah."

 

Mina started laughing wildly. "I see, I see! So what is the second thing?"

 

Eiji looked at her and smiled wildly, then pulled his ticket out of his pocket. "Look at what I've got."

 

Everyone else mentally shook their heads. Why was he showing off a simple ticket that almost anyone could buy? Mina thought the same thing, but realized the significance of the ticket when she saw the concert that the ticket was specifically for.

It was a ticket to Aoi's concert later that evening.

 

Mina sported her own ticket. "I have one, too. Hojo and I were one our way over there, ourselves. We're probably running late, but I wouldn't miss his main performances."

 

And that was how Eiji, Mina, and Riku stood in the back of the concert hall, enjoying Aoi's performance. Just listening to Aoi made Eiji's heart hurt. But he didn't mind, at least not then. He enjoyed listening to the music that the person he loved made. It made him happy to think that it was created by Aoi.

 

Even after song after song, costume change after costume change, and small breaks, the crowd still screamed in happiness. Mina sang along, just like the fan girls up front. Both she and Eiji had to stay incognito (this was Aoi's concert so they didn't want any attention) and wear sunglasses and hats that barely hid their identities. Anyways, most of the fans there were completely focused on Aoi, so it didn't matter.

 

Even though Eiji came especially for Aoi, he still found himself tapping his foot aigh the Celestials songs. He enjoyed the concert and was safaified that he got to go. When the audience thought that the concert was over, Aoi broke out into song, dedicated to an unknown special person… who was almost undoubtedly Eiji. As Eiji listened, he felt the song and the feelings that were conveyed with it. He felt his heart break in two as he listened. The song was just that emotional.

 

Mina put her hand on his shoulder, silently helping him. He was glad that he had apologized to her. Even if it was awkward, he was thankful that she forgave him. As soon as Aoi fun sighed, the crowd erupted in cheers and claps. They clearly loved it. Some people around Eiji and Mina speculated who the song was for.

 

"C'mon," one said, "that song was so heartfelt! I even felt the emotion in that one!"

 

"I wonder who that song was for?" someone else asked.

 

Eiji bit his bottom lip, ready to depart, but a familiar song blasted. Before anyone could register what was happening, a very familiar singer/model appeared on stage, causing the crowd to go into an uproar. Erika… Hyuuga Erika, an old friend of Eiji and Aoi's. She went way back to even before their relationship had first blossomed. In fact, she was the one that got them together in the first place.

 

Mina nudged Eiji's side. "Is that Hyuuga Erika? You know, the one that won all those awards?"

 

"Yeah, it's her alright. She's acting like she did a while ago. I haven't talked to her since forever and she just shows up, singing," Eiji said.

 

"Pretty bold of her," Miba commented.

 

"That's always been Erika."

 

Mina looked at him as Erika and Aoi went backstage. "Are you going to talk to her?"

 

Eiji clenched his fist. "I could… I want to."

He just didn't want to exactly worry Aoi any more than necessary.

 

"Good!" Mina chimed. "You can introduce us! Riku, mind getting us backstage?"

 

Riku nodded. "Of course. Follow me."

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

For one reason or another, having Erika back was almost like a breath of fresh air. A break he had been unwittingly needing. She had always managed to keep him whole and calm even when everything was in chaos around him. Erika had been one of the first people who had believed in him the most at the beginning of his career and he owed her the world for that. Without her, Aoi had no idea where or who he would have been.....

 

"You boys....Honestly, I leave you guys alone for a few years and you go make and mess of things yet again when provided with another chance to be together and happy" Erika sighed in an abolishing way though she kept her arms wrapped around Aoi.

 

It was clear that neither really wanted to let go of the other. The embrace wasn't intimate but it held a deep friendship and the longing they had had to see one another again.

 

"You know why it wouldn't ever work out between Eiji and I, Erika. You know my grandparents.....besides, you and I are meant to be married" Aoi sighed, lowered his head onto her shoulder, not truly caring how tired and defeated that position made him look.

 

Gently carding her fingers through his hair, Erika released a deep sigh of her own. "I know all that Ai-Ai. But may I also remind you that I'm not taking those demands laying down.....and I'll be damned if you are. We're not just about to throw ourselves on the ground and appease the old farts in our family....We have living wills and wants of our own as well. We're not robots to do their bidding."

 

"And what about our siblings.....We can't just let their dreams and desires be slaughtered just because we decided to rebel against our grandparents"

 

"We'll protect our siblings, Ai-Ai. I swear to you, no one will lay a single hand on them. Even if we refuse this marriage and manage to succeed, we'll keep our siblings safe. I don't know how yet, but the two of us.....we'll definitely come up with a plan" Erika reassured him in a gentle loving tone of voice.

 

Exhaling a shaky sigh, Aoi nodded against Erika's shoulder....finally feeling at peace after so many days of thinking one more verbal hit would make him shatter like a fragile piece of porcelain. It was obvious how much he had needed the return of an old friend like the girl that now held him securely in her caring arms.

 

"Now, enough of these depressing matters. Let's go see if Eiji pulled on his big boy pants this morning and came to this concert. After the accident I saw he was in in the news, I'd rather not have to run around Japan looking for him just to give him a good earful for making me worry" Erika said after a moment, tone turning cheerful once more as she tried to move onto a different topic, though it was one just as sensitive.

 

"Unfortunately you might have to do just that. Like I said, I don't know if he'll be here. I kind of doubt it" Aoi murmured quietly, straightening up again to look down at Erika with a tired pair of blue eyes.

 

"Nonsense! Eiji better be here! If he's not, I swear I'll kill him!"

 

A low chuckling drew both their attention as Tatsuo walked up to them with a rare yet warm grin on his face. "Nakahara is here. I've been told he's heading towards us right now. Though he's not alone, he's with his manager and that singer, Mina".

 

After releasing Tatsuo from a tight hug of greeting, Erika stepped back to stand beside Aoi once more. Reaching out, she grabbed his hand and entwined her fingers through his before shooting him a playful grin.

 

"That's good to hear. Well then, we might as well wait here to greet them, shall we?" she responded causing both the manager and singer to smile and shake their heads in exasperation.

 

Squeezing her hand in his, taking in the feeling of safety and security she provided him with, Aoi turned to watch Celestial walk up to them and begin talking about the concert and Erika's surprise appearance while they waited for Eiji and the others to show up.

[Akira&Shiki]

Because the concert was over, many of the fans were swarming about the place, trying to catch a glimpse of Aoi or Celestial. Riku led Eiji and Mina past the fans, to make sure that there were no disruptions. Once they were in the clear, the two took off their hats. Mina took off the sunglasses, but when she looked at Eiji, he still wore his.

 

"You're going to keep them on?" Mina inquired, halting him for a second.

 

"Of course I am! I have huge, dark bags beneath my eyes!" Eiji lifted the sunglasses to show her.

 

Mina frowned. "What exactly happened to you, Eiji?"

 

Eiji shook his head, indicating that he no longer wanted to speak on this matter. It was embarrassing enough with the bags beneath his eyes. But Mina's question made him feel even worse. So why did he have dark circles beneath his eyes? Because after that incident with Aoi at the hospital, he stayed in his apartment, sometimes crying whenever he thought about the circumstances.

 

Even then, it was hard to believe that Aoi was supposed to get married, of all things. Knowing his grandparents, though, it wasn't that far of a stretch. But they lived in the day and age that people who loved each other could be together. And yet Aoi didn't want to cause any more trouble than he already had. It hurt too much to think about what was going on.

 

Mina saw the frustration and pain on the model's face and she lightly gave his hand a squeeze. She knew that he needed someone to lean on.

 

"You okay?" Mina asked.

 

Eiji sighed. "Yeah, I guess so."

 

"Good," the singer said. "You're about to go see Aoi-san and Hyuuga Erika. So get your game face on!"

 

"You're right."

 

"Also!" Mina poked Eiji's shoulder. "No sweet talking Hyuuga Erika! If we're going to do this 'dating' stunt, then I can't have you flirting with other girls."

 

Riku beckoned the two idols along to the actual backstage, where Aoi and Eeika would be.

 

Eiji shook his head. "Didn't we both already turn that idea down?!"

 

"Yes, we both did. But look at us now. We're holding hands," Mina said as they climbed the steps to reach their destination.

 

In response, Eiji quickly dropped her hand. "No one asked you to do that!"

 

"Well you looked so pitiful!" Mina argued back.

 

Riku shushed them. "Lower your voices, you two. Others can hear you."

 

And as soon as he said that, the three faced the people that had performed that night, along with Tatsuo. They immediately stopped their bickering and stared for a while. Eiji looked at Mina's hand again… as embarrassing as it was, he felt as if he needed to hold onto something. A tight knot formed in his stomach and he felt sick again. What woul he say to Aoi? He didn't want to sound forced or artifical… but he felt so awkward! Mina, seeing his hesitation, grabbed him and dragged him to the group of singers. Once they were closer, Eiji could see that Erika and Aoi were holding hands. A pang of jealousy hit him hard, though he knew that there was nothing to be jealous of.

 

Erika was just a close friend…

 

"Hello everyone," Mina said, "you all did great today!"

 

Following suit, Riku gave the group of singers a nod of greeting.

 

Eiji gulped a little and finally manned up. He looked at Erika and smiled. "Long time no see, Erika. You're looking as gorgeo-"

 

Mina interrupted him by slightly punching his shoulder, giving him a death glare.

 

Eiji chuckled. "Sorry about that. I'm learning how to stop messing around and she's my coach. Well anyways, Mina, meet Hyuuga Erika. Erika, meet Mina."

 

Mina smiled. "I'm a big fan of your's Hyuuga-san. It's good to see you back in Japan."

 

Eiji nodded, agreeing with her, then he turned to Celestial. "You all did a great job today, as well." Then he finally turned to Aoi and gave a genuine smile. "You did really great today, Aoi. That's why I'm a big fan of yours."

 

Mina busted in. "I'm an even bigger fan."

 

Eiji sighed. They were just getting along! Then he turned back to Aoi, trying to see how the singer was faring. He looked tired and miserable…

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Looking up when he heard a mildly familiar voice, Aoi blinked surprise when Eiji, Mina and Riku approached them. He had expected them to take a bit longer to reach them, however it appeared he had been wrong. Unconsciously tightening his grip on Erika's hand, Aoi did his best not to lower his eyes to the ground when he watched Mina drag Eiji over. Jealousy washed over him at the girl being so close to Eiji, physically touching him....yet he knew he had no right to do anything. Especially not when he had explicitly told the other man to forget about him.

 

After a round of thank yous went out when Mina congratulated them and Riku greeted them, Erika flickered her gaze between Eiji and Mina as a delicate frown touched her angelic features.

 

"My my, Eiji-kun....I never thought I'd see the day that you would be so thoroughly whipped by a girl....This is seriously surprising" Erika said cheerfully even as she pouted adding "So whipped in fact that I don't even get a hug....Huh, I don't think you love me anymore. What do you say Aoi?"

 

"I'm sure he loves you just fine, Erika. He just has to keep his date happy is all" Aoi replied with a light chuckle and a small smile towards Erika. His gaze having slid off Eiji the moment the model had reached them. It hurt to have to look at him, especially with someone else. And as tired as he was feeling now, he didn't think he could take it.

 

Humming softly under her breath in thought, Erika leaned slightly against Aoi, a subtle comforting gesture to show him that she understood how he was feeling. Turning her attention to Mina, Erika grinned saying "It's a pleasure to meet you, Mina-san. And thank you, I'm glad to be back home myself. I've been hearing great news about you from shows and concert performances. It's lovely to see a rising talent like yours joining us in the Idol world."

 

When both singer and model shifted to speak directly to Aoi, the man steeled himself long enough to look away from Erika and towards the other pair.

 

"Thank you both. I'm always pleased to have such great fans on my side. You make my work more worthwhile as a whole. Even with the competition I see you both have between you, I value your support equally" he spoke softly, forcing a smile onto his face and pushing himself to appear warm and sincere.

Feeling arms wrap around him the moment his hand shook lightly in Erika's grip, Aoi looked down at the girl who now rested fully against him all the while giving him a knowing, sympathetic look.

 

Letting his shoulders droop a bit from where he had been holding himself so rigid, Aoi gently wrapped an arm around Erika's waist and took in the waves of her silent comfort in gratefully.

 

As if feeling their friend's distress, the members of Celestial drew in tighter around him, almost protectively as they glanced curiously between Aoi and Erika, and Eiji and Mina.

 

"Hey, we're all getting together at Celestial's penthouse condo after we leave here. I'd like to extend an invitation to you Eiji-kun and your girlfriend and manager.....I better not get a no from you, Eiji-kun. I haven't seen you in too long for you to refuse to spend time with me!" Erika spoke up after a moment, smiling towards the three of them though she shot a glare over at Eiji.

 

"Well as long as they don't mess up the place. I'm fine with them coming" Tatsuo put in when Aoi shot him a questioning look after the invitation.

 

"Perfect, it's settled then, Eiji-kun and his friends will be coming over. Any objections?" Erika quirked a brow at the three in question while the others waited patiently for a response.

 

Keeping his expression neutral, Aoi flickered his gaze over to them as he too waited to hear what they would say.

[Akira&Shiki]

The atmosphere wasn't quite tense, nor was it so terrible that one would do anything to relieve themselves from. To Eiji, everything felt constricting. He felt the coldness that emanated from Aoi. And such cold sadness hurt Eiji as well. The model watched Aoi in a silent curiosity. Aoi's face was riddled with an indecipherable expression… well at least one that he couldn't understand.

 

Eiji watched, first in curiosity, then in an awkward jealousy, as Aoi and Erika kept close together. They seemed to be comforting each other, but Eiji disliked this display of affection. His jealousy continued to brew as Aoi slid his arm around Erika's waist. He kept on telling himself, They're just close friends… just close friends.

And despite his thoughts, the jealousy kept on growing.

 

The jealousy fumed as he watched them hold onto each other, fighting himself from launching at them and prying them apart. Feeling dejected, Eiji just gave a weak smile. He fixed his sunglasses and looked at Mina, who was looking at the other singers in curiosity. Feeling eyes on her, Mina looked over to see Eiji, his entire demeanor droopy.

 

Riku watched this as well, keeping quiet to see what would happen next. He decided that interjecting wouldn't help Eiji grow at all. This was his own personal battle. When Erika mentioned the get together at the Celestial penthouse, Mina nodded to herself. Of course she'd go! She looked back at Eiji again, who didn't seem up to going. But knowing Eiji, he'd go.

 

"Of course we'll go," Eiji said. "I'm not sure about Mina thou-"

 

He stopped when Erika mentioned the word girlfriend. Girlfriend?

 

"Girlfriend?!" Eiji and Mina asked in unison, staring at Erika in surprise.

 

Was that how their relationship looked?

 

"I'd never date this guy!" Mina exclaimed, chuckling a little.

 

Eiji crossed his arms, feigning offense. "Well excuse me, then!"

 

Mina smiled, her eyes glinting with a little spark. "You're not that much of a prize… but anyways, Hyuuga-san, I'd love to attend as well."

 

"But Erika, I still can't believe you'd confuse us like that… well, Riku, are you able to go as well?" Eiji asked, turning to his manager.

 

Riku nodded. "Yes, I am. But you shouldn't stay too long. You have to meet with a photographer tomorrow."

 

The model turned to Erika and Aoi, a shadow of his regular liveliness showing. "Well then, it's settled!"

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Watching Eiji closely, Erika leaned into Aoi comfortably as she gaged out her thoughts a bit further. She could practically feel the jealousy coming out of the model standing in front of them and that gave her a bit of a plan. Perhaps it's wasn't the nicest of plans but she had to make sure of what she thought Eiji was feeling. After all she hadn't seen the model in 4 years and apparently he had changed from the Eiji she was familiar with. Now it was just a task to try and bring that Eiji back to light. Especially how Eiji had used to be around Aoi.

 

If she could prove to Aoi that Eiji was willing to fight for them, then the singer wouldn't resign himself to this marriage so quickly.

 

Glancing between Mina and Eiji, Erika's face lit up with her typical cheerful grin while saying "Well you can't blame me! I've been hearing rumors after all and you guys did come in together. I couldn't help but think that Eiji had finally found himself a little girlfriend....one that was apparently whipping him into shape. Neh, Aoi?"

 

Glancing down at Erika's grin, Aoi couldn't help but smile back because there was no way anyone could fight the contagious affect of the smile. "It does look that way at first glance. However, I'm glad things got straightened out" he replied, looking back up at the other pair with mild curiosity in his eyes.

 

So they weren't together, huh. That was a bit surprising to say the least. Though the fact that they had looked particularly good together had not been changed, Aoi couldn't help but feel a small thread of relief knowing that Eiji hadn't moved on so quickly after their last talk.

 

Nodding when Eiji turned back to them, Erika smiled at him with a "That's good".

 

Looking up at Aoi, the female singer unwrapped an arm from around his waist to reach it up and gently cradle one side of his face. With a small tug, she pulled his face down towards her far enough so that she could place a kiss on his cheek before pulling away with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes.

 

"Why don't you go ahead and take everyone to the back where my limo is parked, Ai-Ai. I'll be with you guys shortly, I just want to have a word with Eiji-kun first" Erika told the male as he blinked down at her rapidly with surprise and even a hint of shock on his features.

 

Aoi had not expected Erika to pull an act of affection out like that in front of everyone......but then again, this was Erika they were talking about. The girl was known for doing just about anything.

 

Nodding at her words, Aoi glanced over at Tatsuo whose eyed reflected his own surprise as well by their slightly widened appearance.

 

"Come on then, everyone. We might as well give these two space to talk so we can leave sooner" Aoi said softly, pulling away from Erika quietly to gesture for everyone to follow him as he began to walk off.

 

Winking at Mina, Erika shot her a playful smile saying "Don't worry Mina-san. I have no intentions of doing anything to Eiji, I swear".

 

Walking forward, she nudged the model on the side saying "Come on", before beginning to walk in the opposite direction than the others. Intent on finding them a quiet corner where they could talk for a few minutes.

[Akira&Shiki]

Eiji gave a sigh of disbelief. "Rumors are just that… rumors!"

 

Mina chuckled, watching Eiji as he responded to Erika. His droopy demeanor had quickly disappeared after Erika had called Mina his girlfriend. To tell the truth, Mina secretly liked the idea of dating Eiji, but then again, she wouldn't be able to deal with his antics. Apparently, Eiji was made from someone else… and whoever that person was, was extremely lucky.

 

Eiji watched Erika as she practically clung to Aoi. He couldn't remember… had she always been touchy like this? Was this something she'd always done? It had been four years… four simple years, but everyone seemed to have changed drastically. And what was this sudden change, though?

 

Eiji found himself calming down… to only be riled up again when he saw Erika give Aoi a kiss on the cheek. What in the world? Erika had to be provoking Eiji! That, or trying him. Either way, Eiji didn't like it one bit. The model was going to step forward and say something, but Erika spoke first, suggesting that everyone leave before she and Eiji.

 

What is she planning now? Eiji thought to himself.

 

Mina watched Erika in a mixture of curiosity and alarm. Even though the female singer knew that Eiji was not hers, she didn't quite like the idea of Erika speaking with Eiji… alone. But she gave as light nod, knowing that she and Eiji had nothing between them. Feeling a bit defeated, especially after Erika had specifically addresses her, Mina followed the rest to Erika's limo.

 

Riku watched Eiji to see the model's reaction. Eiji seemed a bit surprised… surprised to the point that he was stunned. It was clear that he hadn't expected any of this. Eiji had just expected to watch the one he loved perform, go home afterwards, and cry to himself. Erika's sudden appearance, the party, and now this private talking, where all very unexpected to him. Riku patted Eiji on the shoulder, bringing the model back to Earth.

 

"Eiji, relax. I'll be waiting out there for you," Riku said, turning to follow everyone else.

 

Eiji looked at Erika as she walked off to find a private space for them to speak. He gritted his teeth and followed behind her.

 

"Erika," he began, "what is it now?"

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Spinning on her heel to face Eiji once she had found them a good enough space to talk away from any interruptions, Erika looked the model up and down for a moment before sighing, shaking her head, and rolling her eyes. Stepping forward, she raised herself up onto her toes and pressed a kiss against Eiji's cheek.

 

"That's what you get for not greeting me properly earlier. Seriously, you act like we're strangers" Erika grumbled with good nature in her tone of voice. She figured she might as well start things off lightly before she got into the heavy stuff. Though she could clearly see Eiji was annoyed her. Probably due to her actions with Aoi earlier, which was good in a way. It showed that he still cared about the Singer.

 

"Look, I know you're mad with me about just now.....but I had to test something. By your reaction, I got my answer" Erika sighed, combing a hand through her curly locks of brown hair. Gazing sheepishly at the ground for a couple of heartbeats, the singer/model took a deep breath and raised her eyes back to Eiji's with determination in her gaze.

 

"Eiji, I need to know if you're willing to fight for Aoi like you did once in the past when you both fell for eachother.....because what I'm am about to say is not something you're going to like" she said softly, voice filled with the warmth of her caring nature, her sympathy for the situation, and her frustration with all their positions.

 

"Eiji.....Ai-Ai and I are due to be married in 2 months time" Erika pushed out after gathered her courage to say those words.

 

"Now before you dive off the deep end and think we planned for this or that we're deeply in love with one another....you're totally wrong. I love Aoi, but not like a husband or partner, I love him as a brother. Nothing more and nothing less. Neither of us are happy about the situation at hand" she added after a moment.

 

"Our grandparents set the whole thing up. They believe that a combination of both our voices and talents will lead to the reproduction of amazing offspring, thus they are pushing a marriage between both our family's with Aoi and I as the key players" Erika explained quickly before she paused to add "Keep in mind, the first part I quoted from exactly what they said".

 

"Once you and Aoi broke up 4 years ago, our grandparents set upon to put a plan in motion. Aoi and I have been able to fend them off the last few years, but they pulled an Ace out on us this time. One we don't want to jeopardize unless we still believe we have something to fight for" she continued quietly, stress filling her voice and showing through her slumped shoulders.

 

"Though I want to tell you everything....Aoi doesn't want everyone finding out unless they're willing to help us" Erika sighed, lifting her gaze from where it had fallen back to the ground. Locking her eyes with Eiji once more, she searched his gaze while asking

 

"That's why I ask again. Are you willing to fight for Aoi? For what you both felt in the past...before it's to late?"

[Akira&Shiki]

"I'm sorry…" Eiji muttered, a little surprised by the sudden greeting. "I guess I was too caught up in my feelings…"

 

Despite her words, Erika sounded very light hearted and playful. Eiji guessed that was good, since he didn't quite want her angry at him. Though what could she possibly want with Eiji like this, away from other ears? Was it something incredibly serious? Was it something detrimental to everything and everyone he knew?

 

When Erika mentioned something about being mad, he wondered if be had seemed that mad. Was he so visibly mad that everyone could see it? Or was it Erika's usual cat like perception that he failed to understand? Whichever it was, he was slightly embarrassed nonetheless. But when she looked at Eiji with determination that could scare anyone, any thoughts or questions escaped his mind.

 

And then she dropped the marriage bomb.

 

She and Aoi were… getting married? In two months? Aoi had mentioned he was getting married but not to Erika. That was a little nerve wrecking.

 

After she had explained the whole backstory to the arranged marriage, Eiji nodded, at first, silent. He would do anything to help Aoi and Erika. The two were very important to him. Important in two different ways, yes, but important nonetheless.

 

"I'll help," he said. "Tell me what you need me to do and I'll help in any way possible. If it means…" He exhaled. "If it means that Aoi can finally stop shouldering every burden, then I'll help him. I'll carry the weight for him if I have to."

 

And that was the truth. He'd go to yhe end of the earth for Aoi.

[Yukio_of_the_Snow]

Hearing Eiji's words, Erika couldn't help but smile at the model. A smile that soon morphed into a full on grin of happiness and relief. If Eiji was on board to help them, then maybe Aoi and her plus their siblings could be saved. The singer had had her fingers crossed and was hoping this moment would go as plan and by all means it seemed that she had nothing much to worry about in the end. She should have known that Eiji wouldn't abandon them to their fate.

 

Clapping her hands together in delight, Erika did a little jump before launching herself at Eiji, unable to stop. "I knew you'd pull through for us! Aoi didn't want to get you pulled into the middle of this but I just knew we needed your help! God, I don't care how long we've been apart, I still love you to bits my knight in shining armor!" Erika exclaimed, squeezing her arms around Eiji tightly, showing how truly happy she was.

 

It took a moment for her to compose herself but when she finally let go of Eiji and took a step back her eyes still shown with joy. "We really don't have a plan on how to get out of this arrangement.....not a concrete one at least....Our grandparents have threatened forcing our younger siblings to take our place and marry if we don't complete our "duties".....that's something Aoi nor I will ever allow to happen while we have breath remaining in our bodies" Erika explained quietly, clasping her hands together in front of her lap.

 

"I was thinking that perhaps you and Aoi could try to become close again. Rebuild the relationship as a couple you once had. Maybe if we can get the backing and support of our fans and the entertainment industry, our grandparents will find themselves pressured to back off" Erika mussed after a moment, a concentrated and determined little frown making its home on her delicate features.

 

"My boyfriend is waiting on the sidelines until I give him the go to do something. I haven't wanted to put anything in motion until I was sure the key players were in though....." she added a second later. Pausing for a heartbeat, Erika gazed up at Eiji with a serious and almost apologetic expression on her face.

 

"Are you sure you want to do this, Eiji? I know I've asked you this more than once but I need to be sure. I.....I don't want you to feel pressured into anything. After all, helping us might impact your career again and I don't know if you're willing to chance walking down that road a second time" the singer stated, gazing up at her old friend with sympathetic eyes.