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It was a morning day, the birds were chirping, people were chatting outside, and Daiki was long asleep in his bed. The young artist was peacefully sleeping, not even making a slight peep. His schedule was clear for the day, he didn’t really wanna go anywhere at the moment.
Until a certain person came in by slamming an open door.
“Good morning, Baby doll!”
Tei announced, entering into the room with a plate of breakfast in his hands. Making his way to the bed and taking a seat right beside Daiki.
“Hi,Tei.”
Daiki softly grumbled, sitting up straight and stretching.
“Aw, tired still, my little artist?”
Tei softly chuckled, placing the plate down and pulling Ikeda close to his side.
“You are really touchy today huh?”
“You know me so well, Daiki.”
Tei softly giggled, pressing kisses all over the redhead’s cheek and forehead. It was humiliating to Daiki yet however he explained it a million times, his buddy still had no sense of boundaries. Not that he was complaining, he was hanging out with the most popular model in Japan itself. Daiki was getting used for his artist skills even though he could tell that the pink guy was keeping him for his looks.
Daiki didn’t know why Tei wanted him exactly, sure he was cute (as he has been told.) It’s just that Tei practically has a boyfriend ( and he really doesn’t like him like that) though he’s probably using the blondie too.
Oh well, not like he cared for the blondie, he was a total wimp. Maybe that’s why he’s getting used by him, Daiki thought until Tei cupped his face and made eye contact with him.
“Whatcha thinking about?”
“Nothing, Tei.”
Daiki mumbled, grabbing his plate and starting to eat.
“C’mon call me Atsushi, Baby doll don’t wound me now.”
“I rather not, this is strictly a professional relationship, Tei. I’m not like Akiba am I?”
Daiki said casually, pulling his face away from Tei’s hands. Focusing on his eyes on his meal instead.
“Right.”
Tei widely smiled, but Ikeda could've sworn that it was crooked with a slight sadness underneath it.
And Daiki did ignore when Tei barely whispered, that “I wished you were like Akiba.”
“Okay I’ll be taking my leave now, Maeno I'll be going to a photo shoot and if you need me just call me or whatever alright?”
He really needs to get used to being called that, even though he doesn’t feel like Maeno but oh well he changed his name for a damn good reason.
“Yeah, yeah I know.”
Daiki mumbled, finishing up his breakfast and handing the empty plate to Tei.
“Great take care, Baby doll”.
Tei softly chuckled, pressing one last kiss onto Daiki’s forehead. Getting up and taking his leave.
Wonderful now Daiki feels bad about letting him down once again, yet the model was a prick. Hell when he saw him when he was working his hours, yelling at his coworkers, cursing them out anytime he got the chance even though it’s rare Tei still curses out his boytoy too. But nooo! Not to Daiki though, he was a special case, special than the blondie that is (Tei said). The praise and treats are nice at least, however it seemed like Tei was trying to keep him inside the mansion for the weekend despite that he still had family to go home to, at the end of the day. Daiki didn’t want to be stuck all day in Tei’s mansion, that would be no good to him most importantly. Two things that Ikeda loved was painting first then exploring second.
Nonetheless where was he going to go today? Daiki surely wasn’t going to somewhere full of crowds, god no. Maybe somewhere small and cozy, speaking of. Daiki looked down at the floor, his eyes searching for a certain creature of his. Until He spotted her, laying in her cat bed and peacefully snoring. Sunshine was the only thing keeping him sane in this damn mansion if he had to be honest.
So Daiki got up and picked up the small thing, making the cat stretch in his arms.
“Good morning, Sunshine.”
Daiki chipped, carrying the cat to the desk. Placing her on it and taking a seat in the desk’s stair. He did wonder which uber he should call, maybe the butler one? No Tei said that he was way too touchy plus he’s probably fired right now. Hell maybe he could spend the day with Ruka? No she was kinda a bum even if she’s nice to him and all she’s still kinda like Tei. So no Butler, no Ruka, and Matthias was definitely not an option.
“Should I call Taku?”
Daiki asked, reaching his hand to Sunshine’s head and gently petting her. Sunshine meowed gently in response, purring as he continued.
“I guess that’s a yes, hopefully Tei didn’t get to him yet.”
The young artist said, picking up the telephone on the desk and rolled to the certain numbers he always kept in mind. It rang once, twice and thrice before he could hear a certain voice on the line.
“This is Akiba, who is this?”
“Hey, Taku it’s me, Daiki.”
“Oh hey! Little dude what are you calling me for?”
“It’s nothing really, just a little favor.”
“Go ahead and spill it, champ I’m not that far away.”
“Yeah, yeah how about could you drive me to that one underground casino in Nagasaki?”
Daiki said hesitantly, putting the telephone to his ear and grabbing Sunshine. Placing the cat right back on his lap.
“The one that Tei goes to sometimes?”
“Yes that one, dipshit just come to the mansion already!”
“Y-yes, Daiki, I'll be there right away, promise!”
Akiba stuttered.
“Yeah, yeah.”
Daiki huffed, hanging up the telephone and leaning back onto his chair. God what was he doing? Sure he had more than enough money to gamble with but still. Daiki has been to a casino before with Tei, honestly he was just attached to the pink guy’s side while he chatted up the servers and everything. It wasn’t the greatest thing but it was very inviting to say the least. Plus he was more than sure that he was super good at poker now (from playing with Matthias multiple times.) And who knows maybe he might win big.
“Okay fuck it, I’m going.”
It was a special occasion so Daiki got dressed in a low attention outfit, he got on a shirt and overalls. Also taking his custom made jacket, Mai got for him and the finishing touch was the beloved leather hat he got for his last birthday. But Daiki thought he was missing something important. Oh how could he forget! Quickly he dug around in his hat, pulling out a certain spiked collar and put it around his neck. That was way better now that complete his look. If he had to be really honest he threw in some of his Royal flush darts, and Card knuckles.(Just for safety of course) Nonetheless Daiki heard the door ring, so he grabbed Sunshine, and his wallet. Heading straight to the door and opening it to see the certain blondie.
“Hey, champ, nice fit and I see you brought Sunshine yeah?”
Akiba chuckled, holding his arms for the certain cat.
“I did, now let’s hurry please.”
Daiki said steadily, handing his cat to the blondie, watching him carry her as they walked to the van.
“Y’know I dropped Atsushi off at his photo shoot like twenty minutes ago.”
Akiba said softly, opening up the van doors for the young artist, letting Ikeda take a seat in the front.
“Of course you did plus I can tell.”
“How so?”
“The hickeys on your neck are a certain clue.”
Daiki scoffed, taking Sunshine from Akiba as the blondie got into the driver’s seat.
“Damn I thought he covered it up already.”
Akiba mumbled, his face turning red as he got his words out.
“Yeah, yeah I couldn’t care less, just drive, Taku.”
“Okay, bossy I know.”
Akiba chuckled, starting up the car and going onto the road.
“You better.”
Daiki mumbled, resting his head near the window. Sunshine was now resting against his chest, he pretty much envied her ability to just sleep or feel comfortable anywhere. Yet she was his support cat afterall, it’s crazy how he got attached to her like this. She was just a stray when he found him and he practically did beg Mai to keep her with Matthias helping as well. In return Sunshine had to be everywhere with him, literally when he goes somewhere the cat will always follow.
Now that Daiki’s thinking about it, what would his mother think about Sunshine? Sure she would scold him about adopting a stray from the streets but he was more than sure that his mother would come around if she had the chance. But his father? No, he really shouldn’t be thinking about Ikeda Koji after what he did to him. It’s been two years since he buried his own captor into the ground, hell he couldn’t remember where he and Mai buried him. Nevertheless Daiki knows damn well he will never come back (just like his own mother).
“We're here!”
“Finally you’re coming with me.”
“Wait, are you talking to Sunshine or me?”
Akiba asked, pointing at his chest with his thumb.
“I’ll share half of my earnings with ya. If I hit a big jackpot in the place.”
Daiki said, taking his hat off and digging through it. Getting out his glasses and putting them on.
It was almost funny how easily he could get Akiba to take the bait.
In no time they were in the casino, it was cozy and nice in the zip section. Daiki did predict that the club staff would recognize him no problem, and didn't even question why he was carrying a cat inside. Surprisingly they served Daiki and Akiba the same alcoholic drinks he and Tei had before. This was for sure going to be an interesting night, especially the things he was seeing at the poker table at the front.
“How is this place even here? Who builds a casino in fucking Nagasaki?”
“I don’t know but I’m about to go over to the poker table.”
Daiki said, calling over the server and giving him a certain amount of yen, letting them fetch him casino chips.
“I thought you were going to the slots for a minute.”
“I swear you are so dumb, Taku.”
Daiki sighed, chugging down the sweet and strong liquor. Getting out of his seat and stretching, making his way towards the Mahjong poker table with Sunshine around his shoulders.
“I know sorry, Champ.”
Akiba softly chuckled, following the smaller boy to the table and sitting beside him.
“Stop saying sorry, just keep a look out.”
“Yes, boss.”
Akiba chuckled once more, leaning on his seat and throwing his arms on his neck.
Once the server delivered the casino chips, the game started. A few guys were what he started with, it was funny since they didn’t even know what they were doing. So Daiki collected an easy 157,945 (about 1,000 dollars in american y’all.) And that’s when he started to grow his confidence, facing more and more people. Earning more by the hour, he couldn’t lie it was fun. Akiba kept on ordering drinks and the casino chips were flowing. Daiki was winning so much and he was happy doing so. Honestly it was pretty much a flow state until a certain group walked up to the table and took their seats.
They looked just like his age. There was a white haired guy that was wearing a full on dress, while two girls sat right beside him. To be completely honest to himself as well, the guy looked pretty as well with his pale white and dark green dress. What he noticed as well is that there was a decaying flower crown (if you can even call it a flower crown) around the boy’s head and he was smoking something weird. Nevertheless the boy had a small smirk around his face and it may have intimidated the redhead a bit. However there was no way he was backing down now.
It was more difficult than Daiki ever thought. The guy had an excellent fucking poker face like hell, and it was hard to tell if the pretty boy was bluffing or not to begin with. And don’t get Daiki started on his friends, the boy’s friends were all over each other and being lovely dovely. It almost made him want to give up and leave but yet he prevailed anyway. Earning him a solid 793445.00 yen in total. God Daiki was drained from this whole experience even the alcohol didn’t help calm his nerves. He was about to leave with Akiba before the white haired boy started to speak.
“Good game, that was very impressive.”
The white haired boy expressed with a small smile, he could barely see the guy’s face since that white thing was covering it.
“Oh shush we just lost a solid 5,000 yen.”
The ginger scoffed.
“Well I told y’all to not bet that high.”
The girl with pigtails sighed softly.
“Don’t get me started, hun.”
The ginger growled at the blonde, pointing at the girl’s chest. It caused the white haired boy to let out a chuckle, while the other girl just got flustered. Yet that’s not what caught his attention, the white haired boy’s eyes caught his own. And he won’t lie, he was kinda intimidated by the boy even if he did just win a practically jackpot from him. So Daiki just sat in his seat and froze. Akiba was about to say something until the other boy beat him to it.
“Do I know you two somewhere?”
The boy said sweetly, raising his eyebrow just a bit at the redhead.
“Uhh where do you think you saw us before?”
Akiba asked, raising his hand to scratch his neck.
“I’m talking to the artist please, I think you’re just that one model’s boytoy?”
The white haired boy said casually, waving off the blondie with his hand.
“Oh.”
Akiba mumbled, laughing nervously at the response.
“Anyway I think you’re Tei’s personal artist, yes?”
The white haired boy asked with a slight grin on his face.
All Daiki could do was smile and nod like a damn idiot, he was hugging Sunshine to his chest for god’s sake. He knew he should've just stayed at Tei’s mansion or just gone back home. But no Daiki thought he could just disguise himself in some damn clothes and just pray no one would recognize him. Now look where he was, he was getting stared down like some prey.
“Wonderful, can I talk to you in private, Maeno?”
“For what exactly?”
Daiki barely got out.
“For a simple business offer promise, I have a private room that I rented for the next hour.”
The white haired boy said simply, pointing at a private booth away from prying eyes.
“Wait what? You are not taking our booth, Sou!”
The girl with pigtails shouted immediately, it made the redhead visible flinch.
“Erina, I’ll be quick, just talk to the boytoy while I talk to Maeno please.”
The other boy said firmly, looking at the blond girl and it looked like he was giving her a bit of a death stare if Daiki ever saw one. It made the girl immediately shut up and look at her partner to help but all she did was just sighed.
“Yeah, Babe, let's just talk to Tei’s boytoy.”
The ginger sighed, having a tired look on her face while taking her lover’s hand and holding it tight.
“Okay.”
The girl with pigtails said softly, leaning on her partner and playing with her hair.
“Lovely shall we, Maeno?”
“Hold on real quick, dude let me have a moment with my guy.”
Akiba said immediately, before the other boy could protest. Taku already pulled Daiki aside and pulled him close.
‘Thank you.”
Daiki softly mumbled, letting out a deep breath that he didn’t know he was holding.
“No problem, little dude do you wanna leave or?”
Akiba let Daiki have a moment to think. The boy only offered a simple business offer, nothing more plus he looked harmless yet he didn’t seem harmless. Yet this could be another big thing for Daiki, even if he does have many rich friends this could be another one. However if the guy tries something, he has weapons to defend himself. Daiki just had to pray that the guy didn’t give him a reason to put one of his darts in his neck.
“No I can do this, Taku.”
Daiki said confidently, having a small smile on his face as he placed Sunshine back on his shoulders.
“Are you really sure? Because Atsushi could call me anytime and you know I’m practically his assistant.’
“I’ll be fine, Taku, if anything happens just call Matthias.”
“Alright if you say so.”
Akiba said softly, taking Daiki’s hand and leading him back to the table where the group were talking until they were in view.
“So what’s the answer, Maeno?”
“Yeah we can talk but it has to be short please.”
“Oh lovely I promise it will be quick now shall we?”
The white haired boy asked, holding out his arm to the redhead. It had only taken a moment before Daiki took the other boy’s arm and went to the private booth with him.
“So is that asshole your boss?”
Akiba asked, ordering himself another drink and some food as he took his seat next to the ladies.
“Not really but I have no idea what he’s going to ask your redhead.”
The ginger said blankly.
“Just wanted to say, that’s a pretty white cat your boss got.”
The girl with pigtails complimented.
“I know, right?”
………………………………………………………………………………………………………
The private section was certainly something, there was a piano in the middle where someone was playing. Sunshine was clinging onto Daiki’s neck like hell and he really didn’t know why either focus on the matter. Yet he focused on the music, it felt familiar though, really familiar. Daiki was more than sure it was her that was playing the piano. So when he and the white haired finally took seats to where it was easy to see who was playing, finally he took a glance behind him. It was her all right, Hitomi Sasaki in the flesh. The dictator was softly playing the piano, not in her usual sharp uniform no but in a soft sparkly dress. It was still a surprise to see his boss like this, looking carefree and not intimidating as always. However it wouldn't hurt to say hi though right?
“Uh , can I do something real quick?”
“We just got here though, was there something that caught your eye?”
“It’s my boss and I really wanna say hi to her.”
“Really? That’s a first if I 've ever heard of.”
“Well I just really wanna talk to her.”
“All right then lead the way, artist.”
Okay maybe he should've said no to this whole thing. But he didn’t protest, all he did was grab the other boy’s arm again and took him in the middle of the room. To Daiki’s surprise no guards were surrounding the girl so all he did was walk straight to her (maybe a bit too eagerly).
“Hello, Daiki.”
Hitomi said softly, turning to her side to face the redhead. She had a soft smile on her face as she took notice of the artist.
“Boss!”
Daiki softly chuckled, leaving the other boy’s side to hug his dictator’s side. Sure he wasn’t good with touch exactly but still this was his boss plus he hadn’t seen her in a week or so.
“It’s great to see you, Daiki an-.”
Hitomi trailed off, looking directly at the other boy aside from him. Suddenly she pulled the redhead to the side. Making sure the white haired boy couldn’t hear her.
“Do you know him?”
Hitomi asked immediately, her voice as quiet as a whisper.
“Not really but he offered me a business deal. Is there something wrong?”
“He’s the ultimate skullarium collector.”
“Oh. What does that mean?”
“Okay I’ll put this into simpler terms. It’s a person who collects, curates, and often creates "skullariums". a specialized type of art or display where real animal skulls are placed inside a terrarium, often surrounded by moss, plants, and other natural elements.”
“So what? You act like he's collecting human or pet bones, Hitomi.”
Daiki said steadily, sure he was being defensive to a stranger but the boy seemed nice and good-willed. That’s what he thought at first until his boss looked at him with a certain look he rarely saw on her face. It was a look of concern matter of fact.
“He doesn’t collect human bones or pet bones right?”
Daiki repeated a bit louder, earning Hitomi's hand over his mouth.
“Don’t be too loud! Do you have a ride home or anything?”
Hitomi quietly shouted, slowly removing her hand from the redhead’s mouth.
“I do but-”
Daiki tried to finish, the white haired boy suddenly cleared his throat loud enough for the dictator and artist to hear.
“I’m sorry for interrupting but Maeno you seem to have forgotten why we are here exactly. And I really don’t wanna take much of your time but I also want this to be quick as well. So can you please wrap up what you’re talking about over there please, Dear?”
The white haired boy said gently, okay this was starting to get really scary. Because how does a person who collects bones of any kind have a voice like that?
“Give us just one more minute please.”
Hitomi said immediately, turning back to the redhead and placing her hands on his shoulders. Moving his cat on his hat.
“I suggest hiding Sunshine and texting your get away driver immediately. I would help you myself but my hands are tied here.”
“Okay is that all?”
“No one more thing.”
“Do.”
“Not.”
“Inhale.”
“Any.”
“Smoke.”
“From.”
“His.”
“Cigar.”
“Is this clear to you, Maeno Daiki?”
“Yes, Ma’am”
Daiki said immediately, his face showing his determination.
“Great now get going, I’ll try watching over you but please I beg of you be careful.”
“I will and I’ll make sure that he won’t lay a finger on Sunshine.”
“Alright you two have fun now.”
“We will I reassure you, miss.”
The white haired boy said gently once more, taking Daiki’s arm back into his own and leading him back to their shared booth.
Okay thankfully Daiki’s overthinking came in clutch this time. There was an exit near the hallway to the right. If he just excuses himself to the restroom and gets Akiba, he surely could just leave unscathed. But damn Akiba is with this guy’s friends, he has no idea what the guy’s friends could be doing to Taku right now. That was until his phone made a similar ring.
‘Please be something good.’
Daiki thought, taking out his phone and reading the text message that was sent to him.
‘Atsushi just called me and I gotta go so Matthias will be coming to pick you up instead, Champ.’
Ps: sorry.
FUCK.
Oh god Daiki’s is going to die right here and right now. He isn't even able to say his goodbyes or anything. To say he was panicking was an understatement of the century. So put his phone back into his pocket and buried his face into Sunshine’s white fur.
‘Just think how Sunshine’s fur is just like Matthias’s horse fur. Yeah Bijoux is white just like his cat. God he wished Matthias was here.’
Daiki thought, trying to calm down his thoughts. It was working just a little bit but he should probably try breathing in and out. So he lifted his head up and took a deep breath in. He is calm and he is good, everything will turn out fine. Matthias will get him and take him home. Just calm down. Finally Daiki was starting to relax until he turned his face to look around, finding himself meeting eyes to the white haired boy that was sitting next to him.
“You good?”
The other boy asked softly, still having a small smirk on his face.
“FuCk!”
Daiki's voice cracked, putting his back to the wall and putting his hand to his chest. That scared the living shit out of him and his damn cat to be frank.
“I already ordered some alcohol and food if you don’t mind.”
“Okay but why are you sitting right next to me now?”
“Well you seemed like you were about to have a panic attack and I was about to calm you down but it seemed like you handled yourself quite nicely without my help.”
The white haired boy chuckled softly, smoking his cigar and taking a puff out of it once more. The smoke that came out of it looked dark green as well as his outfit to be honest.
“Oh.”
Daiki nervously chuckled, sitting up straight in his seat.
“Enough about that. I haven’t even been able to introduce myself, the name is Yaitabashi Sou and could I have your full name, Maeno?”
Yaitabashi asked sweetly, holding his hand out.
“I think I’d rather you just call m-”
Daiki tried to say, having a puff of smoke blow in his face before he could get the rest of his words out.
“Sorry about I think I misheard you, what was your name?”
“Maeno Daiki.”
Daiki said immediately, shaking his head after he got the words out. What the absolute fuck was that? That was very unexpected plus he did feel a little weird after that thing went up in his face(it was a good type of weird not like he would admit it).
“That wasn’t so hard, yeah?”
“Yeah…”
“Anyway I could tell that Sasaki was talking about me. Did she tell you about my profession?”
“Uh yeah you’re a skullarium collector right?”
“Yeah I am, it's a hard job since it’s not really legal. But you know two birds should flock together.”
“What does that mean?”
Daiki asked slowly, he should be tense yet he’s not. It’s definitely the fuckass smoke that was messing with his brain.
“I know you're an art forger.”
Yaitabashi said sweetly once more, meeting Daiki’s eyes as he got the words out.
‘HOW DOES HE KNOW THAT I’M AN ART FORGER?!’
The young artist's mind screamed.
“Well I-i don-”
Daiki stuttered, trying to get his words out and failing terribly. Yet Yaitabashi didn’t look disencouraged, he just looked curious and terrifyingly curious if he might add. Just his luck, the alcohol and food arrived, it was some beer and two bowls of something that looked good. So he immediately poured two shots and chucked them down, turning to the white haired boy when he gulped the shots down.
“How about we talk about you huh?”
Daiki softly slurred, trying to change the subject.
“Okay but I do want it to be known that Ken told me about you. But enough about you, Dear I as Sasaki surely told you I am a skullarium collector. I collect bones of many species and make them into art pieces.”
Yaitabashi rambled on, it was cool though to say the least. Daiki had never heard of something that collects bones of any kind and puts them in jars to sell them. Nevertheless, Mai always said “never judge a book by its cover.” However he hid Sunshine on his side, away from the other boy.
If Daiki had to guess it’s been thirty minutes and he has been drinking with the other boy and is now rambling about how annoying a certain model is and how he acts all lovely dovely with his boytoy while Yaitabashi just nodded.
“Yeah I get it, y’know the girls that I was with are in a relationship too. And they are all over each other all the time I tell you, Dear.”
Yaitabashi softly giggled, leaning on the redhead’s side. Having the cat on his lap and actively purring as well.
“See it’s fucking annoying and where the hell are they now?”
“Oh they’re just having quality time together after your bodyguard left them.”
“What he ain’t my bodyguard he was just an escort of mine, nothing more.”
“Oh he looks like he would be a bodyguard.”
“I know, right? But not all he is just a boytoy to Tei.”
“Sounds like it sucks as hell.”
“What really sucks is that he’s not driving me home tonight.”
Daiki slurred, hell if Matthias could see him now. He would probably make fun of him then immediately take care of him after the fact.
“Oh really so you wanna go home with me since I brought you dinner?”
Yaitabashi slurred as well, poking at the redhead’s nose with his cigar and earning a laugh out of him.
“What?! No way I ain’t that type of gal plus what we supposed to be talking about again?”
Daiki let out a short laugh, now that he was thinking about it. Yaitabashi’s smoke was right on his nose, it smelt just like moss, blood, and the forest overall it was more than addicting. Not like he cared he had handled much worse than this.
“Oh right, the deal. Well first off you are an artist correct?”
Yaitabashi asked softly, there was a soft blush on his face while he formed a crooked smile.
All Daiki could do was nod and look at the other boy’s cigar.
“So I will admit that your art is quite inspiring to me and I was wondering, Maeno Daiki even though we have never spoken to each other or known each other before. Could we possibly work together for a collaboration of arts and crafts?”
Yaitabashi finished, looking out of his peripherals at the other boy with a hopeful look in his eyes. Never in a million years would Daiki think that he would be in this position. Hell he would never guess that his paintings, figures, or anything he made would be inspiring to anyone even when he got complements. Daiki could tell that they were half genuine or trying to kiss his ass or whatever. Yet the way the person on his side was looking at him was something different entirely, that he didn’t understand.
Would it be bad if he said yes right now? Like he knows that Yaitabashi is still a stranger but he does seem genuine. Plus it’s not that Yaitabashi was just complimenting him left and right, he was blunt as hell just like Daiki. And he was really easy to talk to, he can have that in a business partner.
So with all of his chest, he got out.
“Yeah sure.”
Daiki slurred once more, taking a good look around the room. Nobody is here now, Sakai took her leave ten minutes ago and wished them a great night. It’s just them and the silence and tension is certainly something. It wasn’t awkward or anything sexually nor romantic. It was just there.
“Can I ask a few questions before you give your information and everything?”
The redhead said softly, turning his head towards the skullarium collector.
“Go ahead but I wanna ask you a question too.”
“Alright so what is in that cigar you got?”
“Oh this? Well it’s kinda like a blunt but with a different drug that I’m experimenting with. Do you want a hit?”
Yaitabashi explained, holding out his cigar for the redhead to take.
“I don’t exactly smoke but I could just take one hit and that’s all.”
“Okay sure, one hit he says.”
Yaitabashi softly chuckled.
“Oh shush.”
Daiki softly chuckled as well, taking the cigar away from the other boy. Taking a deep hit from it and blowing the puff of smoke in Yaitabashi’s face.
“Hey!”
“Don’t hey me, you did the same to me when I got near you.”
“True but I do have at least two questions for you, Dear.”
Yaitabashi softly giggled, now tracing his finger around Daiki’s spikked collar. Now he was practically on the redhead’s chest, not like Daiki cared at the moment. He was really having too much fun with this guy. So to measure up, Daiki grabbed Yaitabashi’s hand and took it into his own.
“Go ahead, small shot fire away.”
“Okay why do you look so familiar?”
“What could you ever mean?”
“Well I’ve seen you on social media and stuff but you just look familiar to me like I’ve seen you before.”
“Have you seen me before?”
“No, however it feels like I have.”
“Maybe you met me in a different universe or whatever the hell.”
“Hey no cursing plus would it even be possible for that to happen?”
“Well maybe we met each other in some messed up universe.”
“God, that would be awful, yeah, Dear?”
“It really would be.”
Daiki said softly, softly squeezing Yaitabashi’s hand. He’s talking with this guy like he's known him for years or whatever. Yet he’s right where he wants to be (he thinks), just being comfortable and not stressed out of his mind. Hell Daiki could feel that Sunshine was giving him a dirty look.
“Oh and what’s your cat's name?”
“Her name is Sunshine. Found her in the sunlight in the forest.”
“Why not name her sunlight then?”
Yaitabashi asked, petting Sunshine gently in his lap once more. It looked like Sunshine immediately took a liking to him not like it was uncommon that she likes strangers.
“Because I was dumb at the time and didn’t think of that.”
Daiki softly mumbled.
“Ain’t that something? Oh and I already slipped my business card in your jacket. Your welcome, Dear.”
“Thanks, but is this goodbye?”
“It could be if you want.”
“What does that mean?”
“Okay well tell me your age and sexuality before I explain myself please.”
“Well I am 17 and aroace I think and I am very repulsed by romance. And I think that’s all honestly how about you?”
Daiki explained in a low tone, this has been the calmest he has ever been to be exact.
“I am 17 and cupioromantic and asexual.”
What does the cupio thing mean?”
“It means I wouldn’t seek a romantic relationship but I would just appreciate romantic gestures like what we're doing right now.”
Yaitabashi said softly, laying his head onto Daiki’s shoulder.
“Wait, what are we doing that’s romantic right now and how can I avoid that in the future?”
Daiki asked immediately, slurring once more.
“Okay I was kidding plus what do you even think that’s romantic?”
“Like kissing.”
“Do you wanna kiss me?”
“Absolutely fucking kinda but it’s probably the alchoal talking.”
“Call me pretty first.”
“You’re pretty.”
“What’s pretty about me?”
“Uh how you look horrifyingly pretty.”
“Okay this is strictly platonic going forward.”
“I would hope s-”
Daiki softly chuckled, having his collar pulled down into a drunken kiss. It wasn’t messy or full of hunger that he was used to. It was just gentle and careful, most importantly it was slow. It’s definitely the alcohol telling him that he’s enjoying this but it was addictive as hell. So it really wouldn’t be wrong if he just indulged in this whole thing just a little bit.
……………………………………………………………………………………………………
Matthias just arrived into the underground casino, he usually hates going out unless it’s with friends or family. Yet Daiki was here with nobody at all and he made sure to cuss out Taku since he was interrupting his personal time with his lover. Nonetheless Matthias asked (more like threatened) where the redhead was and was led to the private area for certain members of this damn casino. No one was in the private area so that saved him some trouble. But what didn’t save him trouble was walking in was the practically makeout session he walked in on.
The Maeno Daiki Matthias known and cared for was kissing some guy he had never seen before. Not to mention the shots of empty alcohol on the table they were sitting at. Okay now Matthias did know he was a bad influence on the young artist but never would he guess this would happen. Or maybe Daiki is being taken advantage of, and it made him heated all right. Heated enough to strom over to the area and grab Daiki by his collar. Pulling the redhead away from the white haired boy.
“Who the fuck are you exactly?”
Matthias practically growled, bearing his teeth as he put his axe at the other boy’s neck.
“Mutsuko!”
The white haired boy shouted, his voice reaching at the end of the casino. Before Matthias knew it, a ginger girl ran in with a small blonde girl right behind her. She quickly took out her gun and aimed it right at him.
“Bon sang!”
Matthias mumbled, under his breath. Oh well not like he hasn’t fought before. So as he was just about to strike the white haired boy, Daiki suddenly spoke up.
“Matthias, veuillez poser votre arme.”
Daiki spoke up, he could tell that he was trying not to panic. Yet Matthias wasn’t buying it.
“Daiki, est-ce qu'il te faisait du mal?”
“Non, ce n'était pas lui, s'il vous plaît, baissez votre arme.”
To that Matthias just let out a big sigh and pulled away his axe. He trusted Daiki enough, he could explain himself later.
“Is he good now?”
Yaitabashi asked, holding Sunshine onto his chest.
“I’m good, thank you very much and Daiki. We have to go now, say your goodbyes or whatever
l'enfer”
Matthias said steadily, putting down the young artist and brushing off his outfit.
“I’m sorry about all of this and I really hope to see you again, Sou.”
Daiki said softly, taking Sunshine away from Yaitabashi’s arms and placing a solid 77115.75 (500 US dollar people) on the boy’s lap.
“Yeah don’t mention it.”
“Let’s get going, Daiki, it's late enough.”
Matthias said firmly, taking Daiki’s hand and leading him out of the casino. It was a windy starry night. Bijoux was patiently waiting outside of the place for them. The tension was more than awkward to be honest. As Matthias led Daiki to Bijoux, picking him up and placing him on the horse. Taking Sunshine away from the redhead’s arms and putting the cat in the small Pouch on Bijoux’s side. Finally taking his seat on the saddle as he finished up.
“Je suis désolé”
Daiki softly slurred, wrapping his arms around Matthias’s waist and putting his head on his back.
“Cela peut attendre que nous soyons rentrés à la maison, Daiki.”
Matthias replied sharply, having Bijoux start to gallop home. It would take a solid thirty minutes for them to come home, Mai would still be working when they got home. Yet it didn’t help the thoughts that were running through Matthias’s mind. Sure Daiki said that the guy didn’t hurt him but he doesn’t even find anyone attractive so why start now? Okay this was seriously making Matthias regret even making out with Youhei near the redhead in general. Hopefully the artist would be ready to talk when they got home.
It had been forty minutes and now they had just arrived home. Finally it took way too long. So Matthias rode Bijoux to the backyard, getting her in her stable.
“Daiki, we're here.”
Matthias said softly, turning around to face the artist. Yet he saw something he did kinda predict, Daiki was fast asleep on his back and snoring.
“J'ai l'impression que tu fais semblant de dormir, mais en même temps, je m'en fiche complètement.”
Matthias softly mumbled to himself, picking up the redhead and carrying him inside.
Honestly he was a bit tired himself but he had to take care of Daiki since he reeted of sake and moss. So Matthias carried Daiki to the bathroom, putting the redhead on the toilet lid and starting a bubble bath. That was when Daiki started to wake up.
“Huh?”
“Don’t start, we need to get you cleaned up before you throw up all over yourself.”
Matthias said steadily, already getting undressed. Before starting to undress Daiki to which earned him a huff.
“I don’t need your help.”
Daiki huffed, throwing his arms around at the belgium boy in a pathetic way to stop him.
“I think you do, Daiki, you are drunk off your ass and it ain’t pretty.”
“Hmph.”
Daiki huffed once more, letting Matthias undress him and carry him to the bath. Dropping him straight in.
“So what was the deal between you and that pretty boy?”
Matthias asked softly, joining Daiki in the tub. Taking the wash rag and starting to clean the redhead.
“I got no idea what you’re talking about.”
“You know très bien what I’m talking about, Maeno Daiki.”
“Okay if you must know I was simply indulging myself.”
“So making out with a random guy is indulging yourself now?”
“First off he didn’t use tongue, second it’s none of your business.”
“I’m sorry but you getting drunk off your ass and making out with some guy is my business.”
“Well it’s not like you have to care plus you act like you and Youhei didn’t make out when ya’ll were friends.”
Daiki mumbled, starting to mess with the rubber ducks in the bubbly water.
“I know but still I worry about you a lot if you go out with no one with ya.”
Matthias said softly, handing the rag to Daiki so he could wash his lower parts.
“Yeah well I wished you didn’t.”
Daiki yawned, starting to clean himself this time.
“How am I meant to exactly, I’ve known you since I was 14 now. And we've been through so much.”
Matthias softly mumbled, pulling Daiki into a side hug. Holding the artist close.
“I don’t know but I just wished that practically everyone wouldn’t treat me like some baby.”
“Well I’m sorry.”
“You’re forgiven, I just needed to get that out of my chest.”
Daiki mumbled, taking a deep breath in and out.
“Well let’s get out of here, Mai should be home soon.”
Matthias murmured, picking up Daiki and carrying him out of the bath and restroom.
“Do you have to carry me everywhere?”
“Basically and I promise I won’t take too long.”
Matthias softly chuckled.
“Bleph.”
Daiki softly puffed. In no time the pair were dressed and sitting on the couch, trying to pick out a movie to watch. Matthias suggested a live action horror movie while Daiki demanded an animated movie.
“C'mon usually you like Toshi’s horror movies.”
“Well how about we watch an animated horror movie it would be way cooler.”
“What? No way live action is way cooler.”
Matthias playful argued with the redhead. Until they both heard the front door slam open and in came Hayashi Mai with two boxes and a big gallon of soda.
“Sorry I came late, hopefully y’all ordered something but just in case I ordered some delicious pizza from this Hitotoki Pizza place.”
Mai said steadily, dropping the boxes on the coffee table and taking a seat next to the boys.
“Oh hell yeah thanks, Hayashi.”
Daiki grinned widely, opening the box and practically shoving down the pizza slice he grabbed.
“Thanks, Hayashi.”
Matthias said softly, taking a pizza slice and eating it immediately as well.
“No problem, what are you guys planning on watching huh?”
“It’s a horror movie but we don’t know which genre to pick.”
“Well I got a couple ideas but I should definitely take a shower.”
“Oh definitely you smell like blood.”
Daiki chuckled.
“Shush it, you smell like alcohol and drugs, but enough of that I’ll be quick so just get ready.”
Mai chuckled, leaving the living room and going to the restroom.
……………………………………………………………………………………………..
“Daiki was peacefully snoring while Mai and Matthias were still up and watching the movie.”
“So why does Daiki smell like alcohol and drugs?”
“He was at a casino with Akiba.”
“Oh well what happened exactly?”
“Daiki got drunk off his ass and made out with a guy.”
Matthias said causally.
“Oh. Well never in a million years would I think that would come out of your mouth.”
Mai mumbled, she was barely getting her own words out when Matthias said that.
“Me either.”
“Okay I know I shouldn’t ask but what did the guy look like?”
“He was wearing this dark green and white dress. He looked like he was attending a funeral to be honest.”
“Wait, did he have white hair and a decaying flower crown around his head?”
“Yes, do you know the guy?”
“Oh yeah, that's Toshi's bone guy.”
“And what does that mean?”
“He collects human bones and sells them in jars.”
Mai said casually, like it was no big deal.
“Oh wow that’s really concerning.”
Matthias softly mumbled, stretching and yawning as he did so.
“I know but he’s chill at least it’s not Tei.”
“I’m surprised that it wasn’t Tei.”
Matthias mumbled.
“Me too but I’ll talk to Daiki in the morning. Don't worry.”
Mai said softly, letting a soft yawn in the process.
“I know, but I think I’ll crash for now.”
“Go ahead, get some rest, big guy.”
“Night, Hayashi.”
Matthias softly chuckled, leaning on the muscular girl and closing his eyes. Falling into a deep slumber beside Daiki.
It had been a long day for all of them but they could discuss all of the crazy shit in the morning, no need to dump it all now.