[Series] Behind my mask - Chapter 10 / 26
Title: Behind my mask
Author: andreja1989
Lenght: multichapter
Pairing: Sakuraiba, slight Ohmiya, AibaxOC (Hamada Sumiko), JunxOC (Yoshida Rae)
Rating for this chapter: PG-15 <--- a bit of a bad language
Genre: AU, romance, angst, action, fiction, fluff, school life
Disclaimer: I don't own them, sadly. I own only the OC xD
Summary: He is perfect in many ways because it's how he has to be since he is a butler to the young heir, trying to hide his failures and how much he cares for the young master. On the other side, the heir has a stubborn, arrogant, bratty attitude towards everything around him, especially his butler and always gets what he wants. Is he also hiding something, even from himself? Can these two cope with each other, be honest to each other? What is behind their masks that they show to the world? Can it be something that goes beyond a butler-heir relationship? And what if the danger is at the every little corner of their way, people trying to find out the secret behind Aiba’s family?
<--- PREVIOUS: CHAPTER 9 ~ Truth hurts but friends are always there for you ||| NEXT: CHAPTER 11 ~ Reconcilation and the Safe-keeper --->
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In the previous chapter we saw Sho's memory of that fire when he saved Aiba's life and endangered himself in the process. Aiba's reaction towards Sho's explanation was drastic, he was angry at Sho and started to ignore him again, bringing them slowly almost to the point where they started when they met. Sho, seeing that there are situations when he can't be around Aiba, turned on his friends, Ohno and Jun, while Nino was left there to keep Aiba company. Sho explained the situation to Ohno and Jun who understood him and offered him their help. Then we also saw a new character's appearance, what will her part of the story be? What does her appearance mean for Sho and Aiba? You will slowly learn that.
For the next chapter I wanted to warn you that it starts after Aiba came back from meeting with Rae, it's not after Sho's talk with Jun and Ohno, you will understand once you read :). Also I think this is one of my favorites chapters, not because of Sakuraiba but because it states some important facts, maybe all can learn a bit from them. Also you get to see that Aiba and Nino are closer than we all thought, as friends that is. Man I can't say more haha just read it and you will see ^^ Enjoy reading ne and I appologize if the banner looks kinda creepy, it's metaphoric meaning ne~~~
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Chapter 10 ~ Masks
The sound of games being played were heard, the man not paying attention to the pouting man in the same room, wanting some attention while he only shared that with his lover whose lap was very comfortable for his head.
“Nino-chan! Leave the games ne, let’s party today!” Aiba pleaded all the time that he was here, returning from the back of the onsen where he had met with Rae and then ran away because of Sho’s appearance.
“Mmmm…” Nino murmured in return, not paying much attention to him, he already had a hard time with his concentration as Ohno’s fingers brushed his hair from time to time, the coziness hard to bear since their friend was in their room.
“Fine. Then I will party by myself!” Aiba declared, got up and went to the fridge to get some beer. It’s not like Nino-kun or Ohno-kun have to be the one to give me something to drink, we are friends so it’s okay if I take some. Aiba thought when he opened the fridge and looked inside, the insides almost empty. All he could see was beer, snacks and some other, for Aiba unnecessary things. He took one beer for himself and two for his friends but his eyes stopped at some bottle which looked like lotion. In the fridge? What is that? “Ne~ Nino-chan!” Aiba called, heard loud groans of irritation coming from the gamer and then some slow and silent steps. He saw Ohno before himself and understood why all the groaning. “Ano… why is this in the fridge? It’s not supposed to be in the… mm mmm” Aiba wanted to ask but turned silent the same second as Ohno grabbed the bottle and pressed his palm over Aiba’s mouth.
“I don’t want Kazu to hear… don’t tell him…” Ohno mumbled in Aiba’s ear while slowly letting go of his mouth.
“Why is everyone depending on me keeping all the secrets? It’s not good, I don’t want to be involved in what you two have…” Aiba replied, remembering the misunderstanding between Rae and Jun.
“Because we know you will not tell.” Ohno grinned briefly.
Aiba sighed and returned his interest on the bottle and whispered his question:
“Then can you tell me why did you put lotion in the fridge and why Nino-kun can’t find out about it?”
Ohno’s cheeks flushed and he looked at Aiba weirdly. “Y… you are saying you don’t know?”
“Huh? About what?” Aiba raised his eyebrow in disbelief.
“About… lube?” Ohno whispered and flushed even deeper.
“Eh?”
Ohno sighed, took a deep breath, before explaining:
“We need it… khm… for sex…” Ohno slightly pouted as he turned away and placed the bottle back in the fridge. “If it’s cold… if will give Kazu different sensations… so don’t tell him I prepared that for him…” Ohno turned around carefully, afraid that the man would send him weird glares, disgusted look or anything along that line but was surprised to see Aiba interested.
“Eh? You can use that? Never heard of it.” Aiba smiled while his cheeks burned a little bit too.
“Only… men like Kazu and I use it… or if you do it with the girl… there…” Ohno didn’t know how to explain it nicely to the man who obviously didn’t know a thing about gay or anal sex. The man looked confused for a second but then frowned as he saw the familiar figure standing near the door to the kitchen.
“What now?” Aiba asked suddenly annoyed.
“What were you two doing, Nino-kun looks really depressed out there in the living room…”
“Eh?” Left Ohno’s mouth as he rushed to his lover to check what was wrong. Aiba wanted to follow him but Sho stopped him.
“Is everything okay?”
“It’s not your business, now move away!” Aiba ordered but Sho didn’t move one bit. “Are you deaf now? I tell you, no, I order you to move away!”
“Don’t act tough, it doesn’t work on me. Now, what is going on? You are flushed…”
Aiba glared at the man for a few moments, puffing air out of his nose as his anger attacked him once again. As you wish, this will get right to your bones! “Ohno-kun told me about lube and gay sex, is it that wrong? Now move away!” Aiba raised his voice and pushed the frozen man aside to get his way to the living room.
“W… WHAAAAAT?!!!” Sho yelled a second later, the walls threatening to crumble and the three in the living room watched him weirdly, Aiba somehow amusingly. He stomped his way towards the still standing Ohno and grabbed his collar. “YOU!”
“Hey, hey, hey!” Nino got up immediately afraid if a fight would start any moment. “Sho! Knock it off! It’s not funny…”
“And it’s funny when your lover explains to Aiba-kun about g… gay sex and l… lubrication?”
“Re~ally?” Nino sang the moment when he heard the mentioned words. “Do you mind? I mean I don’t mind. I don’t think it’s wrong if the boy knows…” Nino grinned amused but received a deadly glare from Sho.
“OI Sakurai! That’s enough!” Aiba raised his voice again, his authority and displeasure written in his voice and on his face. “Don’t make me change my friends! I’m sure you know what I mean, I’m sure I can do that.” Aiba’s face was serious and Sho immediately knew what was in the heir’s head. True… I can be replaced for you… If you aren’t satisfied with your butler… I can simply pack my things and you wouldn’t even look at my way when I walk from the mansion… Sho thought, his mind becoming clearer again but darker with every thought that went inside his mind, everything that he couldn’t say and even do. His hand slowly let go of Ohno’s collar, fixed it a bit as the other breathed from relief to be free again.
“I’m sorry Ohno-kun… I went too far…” Sho indicated to Ohno, his head low but he looked over at Aiba now, his look distant and slightly lonely. “It’s as you wish… it’s you who can choose your friends… I always respect your decision even if I don’t act this way, remember this Aiba-sama…”
“Whatever…”
“Aiba-sama?” Nino asked, confused by the used honorific. He looked at Sho and Aiba, Ohno following his example.
“Look what you have done again!” Aiba lamented, crossed his arms on his chest, looking at anything else than Sho.
“I apologize… but since they are great friends to us, I plan on telling them. I know they will not tell anyone.”
“Are you crazy? You know what grandfather said, we can’t tell! It’s you who always told me that.” Aiba raised his voice now staring at his butler not understanding what went on inside his head.
“I talked to the elder…”
“What?! When?” Aiba had a new outburst, Nino and Ohno only moving their heads according to who talked which made them look like two mentally disturbed people.
“In the afternoon, after lunch. He said that he trusts my judgment but now I’m asking you if this is all right to do?” Sho was slightly serious, understanding how delicate it was to talk to Aiba at this moment as he was still upset about what he told him the previous night.
“Do as you wish, I don’t care.” Aiba looked away again, sulking.
Sho was silent for a few moments, observing Aiba’s face, waiting if he would say anything else and sighed silently as he looked over to Ohno. “Ohno-kun… may I have a word with you?”
“Hmm? Why?” Ohno asked.
“Don’t worry I will not scold you anymore or anything… that was my overreaction… I want to share the truth about us with you, Jun-kun will also come.” Sho slowly explained and waited for Ohno’s reply.
“Sure, I will come.”
“I want to know too! I want to come…” Nino intervened, holding Ohno’s arm tightly as he already wanted to get up.
“Can Ohno-kun tell you later… I need you to stay with Aiba-kun…”
“But…” Nino started but stopped as he saw somehow pleading look from Sho’s eyes. Sho-kun… what is going on? I never saw you look like this… as if you raised your white flag and begged me to help you… “Fine…” He added, pouting, his mind still thinking about a lot of things about Sho and Aiba. His view dropped on Aiba who sat down at the table, his hands still crossed and he had the moody look not caring what the others were talking about. I will stay here, maybe I will do my small research as I planned a long time ago but never did… besides maybe I can talk to Aiba-kun… these two just can’t go on like this, it’s annoying!
“Then, I’m going with Sho-kun.” Ohno said to his lover to make him let go of his arm so that he could get up and follow Sho out of the room. Once the doors closed Nino looked over at Aiba again who played with his fingers a little bit but then reached for his beer and took some long gulps. He waited if the man would say anything but when he saw that nothing will happen, he took out his phone and started his Google application. I don’t know why but my intuition always told me that they have something great to hide… also Sho-kun once told us that it can be revealed if someone investigates just a little. Well I surely don’t have the money to pay detectives or anything and I’m not that obsessed but when you tell me about investigation, it’s Google for sure! He blinked over at Aiba who was still frowning, obviously deep in his own thoughts. His view turned back to the screen and he typed in Sho’s name. The phone brought him the hits, he browsed through the links and opened the most intriguing one.
[Sakurai Shun, a man with honors, principles and nice education. Being a butler to the xxx family was the step in his life that proves that the long line of butlers in his family is still not broken. Currently his eldest son, Sakurai Sho is gaining attention from the society of the richest people in Japan. There were some doubts if the young student will follow his family’s steps as the Sakurai family is known for professional butlers through many generations. After taking all of his thoughts in consideration it was announced that the young Sakurai will follow his family’s steps after all. Unknown sources also tell that the young butler, even thought he only started his studies, was already assigned to a family that lately stirs a lot of interest. Apparently the families are close friends and can only accept the young Sakurai as the butler to the young heir of Aiba family…]
WAIT! WHAT?!! Nino’s mind exclaimed, his view ran a few lines above, reading them again as he tried to understand. No way!! Butler? Does that still exist? Is this what they were hiding? A butler and heir? Nino slowly peeked at Aiba but got startled and immediately forgot what his dilemma in this moment was as he saw Aiba’s red face, his fingers fidgeting harder as before in his lap while his mouth was tightly shut to not leave even a tiniest voice while his eyes were watery. “Aiba-chan! Oi?!” Nino asked startled as he didn’t know the reason what made the man upset to the point of crying. On top of everything it was the first time he saw him this down. He reached his hand to the other man but backed away again, waiting a few moments but then couldn’t wait anymore than ask, “What’s wrong?”
“Uuuu~…”
“Oh come on, don't show me that ugly face of yours.” Nino teased a little but his good intentions didn't work out on the crying man.
“H... he... Uuuu~…”
“Hm?”
Aiba sniffed, “He is a liar, I hate him!”
“Are you talking about Sho-kun? What happened between you two? You were getting along just fine, why the sudden change?” Nino intrigued, worried for his friends.
“He said he would never lie to me! Now... I found out that...” Aiba raised his view to Nino, tears trickling down his face and he showed a doubtful expression. “How much do you know about us?”
“Sho-kun and you?” Aiba nodded. “Well... I just found out... I still doubt it's true, maybe it's you who can tell me... Umm... is Sho-kun really your butler and are you really a kid of a wealthy family?” He asked straightforward and observed the other man's surprised expression.
“Did he tell you?”
Nino waved his head and smiled briefly:
“I Googled. So it's true?” He widened his eyes at Aiba's slight nod.
“Will that make you look at me differently now?” Aiba asked a bit frightened and reached over the table to grab on Nino's sleeve. “Nino-kun...”
“Are you kidding?” Nino asked with a serious expression, startling Aiba in the process. He waited a few more seconds and only then smiled, stuck his tongue out and held Aiba's hand that was still gripping on his sleeve, his eyes teary. “Aiba-chan is still Aiba-chan. What changed now is only my understanding about you two. I'm really sorry I thought you two are together... I even... made you two kiss... How stupid am I really? Now... I know what made you two behave the way you did. I understand your cold attitude towards him in the beginning and especially his hanging around with you at any cost, following you, making sure everything was the way it was supposed to be. But... are you willing to tell me what happened between you two. Recently you were getting along well but since yesterday something changed. I'm your and Sho-kun's friend, no matter who you two are or what is going on.”
Aiba's eyes moistened up again, relief overwhelming him. “Thank you Nino-chan... You are a really good friend, not like him!”
“Aiba-chan...”
“H... he is fake, faking his every thing that he does or says. I thought that he was my friend, that I could trust him... he should have told me everything to me. That's what friends are. Why did he keep such a thing to himself. Now I know that he can't keep his words to me. He hid the fact that he knew me before he came to me one month ago. He hid it that no one was able to help my parents that day! That I was meant to be dead that day too but because of him I'm not!!”
A loud sound was heard as Nino's fist hit the table, jerking the other man a little bit from his monologue. “Don't you ever blame him for doing that, ever again did you hear me?!! You should be glad, thankful to live! I'm sure he endangered himself to save you and you are only thinking of why did you survive! Don't fucking mess with me!”
“Nino-kun...” Aiba observed the gamer, surprised by the sudden outburst of his. “He saved me that's true, he was hurt too but he had no right to save my life... why would...”
“You still don't get it do you?!!” Nino replied strictly. “He made his choice. It's not important if he is or was at that time your butler or not, he acted as a human being. Anyone that would know that someone is in danger would go there and try to save as many people as possible. Don't blame him for being a human, at least he shows that he is not made of stone as he often acts.”
“But my parents... why didn't they get a chance like I did?”
“Maybe it was their time Aiba-kun...” Nino continued a bit gentler, understanding that it was something painful for his friend. “Obviously it wasn't your time and neither Sho-kun's because you two are still here with us. Maybe it was meant for you to live, maybe you have a purpose in your life I don't know. Just don't ever again think that your life is not worth living okay? You have a lot of people around you now...” Aiba sniffed again, understanding the words that Nino was telling him. “You miss them right?”
“You can't imagine... I think of them all the time... I remember all the things we did together, all the memories are sweet but so painful... I can't imagine that they aren't here anymore... No one even gave me the chance to face myself and grief... I had to go on, battling with everyday, having Sho-kun follow me around all the time while all I wanted was peace and some loneliness. He says how perfect he has to be but he is not all that great... he lies to me, hides things from me and... he doesn't understand me at all.”
“Do you wish to be understood by him and to hear what he has to say?” Nino asked slowly thinking how stupid the man is at this moment for not even noticing simple things that even he did.
“I mean... he could...”
“Can I tell you what I honestly think?” Aiba raised his view again, his questionable look explaining his wish to hear it. “You are a big idiot you know that and Sho-kun is the same actually... Tell me why are you telling me all this?”
“Hm? I don't understand...”
Nino sighed as he asked again, “Why are you explaining your mind, wishes and emotions to me? What makes me worthy to listen to your whining?”
“Why? Because you are my friend, I know you will listen to me, maybe scold me but I know you do that because you worry for me.” Aiba explained, his eyes turning soft.
“That's true I would do that but did you talk to Sho-kun about this too?”
“No...”
“Isn't he your friend too?”
“Yes, he...”
“No!” Nino interrupted him sternly. “That's only what you try to convince yourself. You don't see Sho-kun as a real friend, you don't explain how you feel, what you want to him. When Sho-kun wants to talk, you run away, you hide inside your shell, wall of thick ice. When Sho-kun acts on his own because he worries and cares for you like he did just before as Satoshi talked to you about gay sex you scold him, yell at him and make him obey you as you have the authority over him. That's not friendship to me! I would never be a friend with someone that would act this way towards me, its wrong! You can't force him to do anything you want, you still see him as your butler who has to obey you.” Nino stopped for a moment to take a deep breath before continuing, “Don't expect him to understand you if it's also you who can't understand him.”
Aiba was quiet for a few moments to chew on Nino’s words silently knowing that the man was right but didn’t know what he wants him to do. “Then do you understand him? He doesn't say anything or does anything that would make me understand him anyway.”
“Aiba-chan people don't always feel the way they show it to the outside, you should know all about this. You act tough and unaffected while you are vulnerable and caring. Girls often put on make-up just to hide who they really are, not only to hide what they think is wrong with their face but some also hide their true selves behind it. Another example are the masks at the carnivals, did you ever see one? Masks are meant to hide emotions, you do it all the time and it's also Sho-kun who does that. Everyone has a side to themselves that they can't show to just anyone but sometimes masks crack. There appears a tiny crack and if you notice it before the person hides or fixes it again, you get the chance to see what's under it. Lately your crack on your mask is getting bigger and I don't mind that because I'm glad you show it to me, that I'm worthy to see your true face. Towards Sho-kun, your crack is barely visible. I also saw Sho-kun's crack on his mask of coolness and strictness. You want to know what I saw?” Aiba listened closely and nodded at the last question. “Sho-kun is lonely... scared... and...” He wanted to add caring but loud voices from the hallway disturbed him. The still surprised, a bit frozen Aiba, who was thinking over Nino's words, was silently sitting at the table while Nino got up to check what the noise was all about. “What’s going on here?” He asked as he saw the familiar girl, to be exact, Jun’s girlfriend who had a tired, slightly annoyed look on her face while the other, fair haired girl with a nice face held her hand and smiled brightly.
“Hello, I’m Hamada Sumiko.” The girl let go of Rae’s hand who looked relieved and bowed nicely to the two men in the room. When her head raised up again, her view landed on Aiba. “Rae-chan was so nice, she promised to me that I can meet Aiba-kun.” She giggled slightly. “Aiba-kun…” She called him to gain his attention and wake him up from his daze as he still thought about Nino’s words about Sho. He slowly looked up to the girl who searched for something inside her purse while she entered the room and came closer to the sitting Aiba. “Eeeeh~ did you cry?” She squatted to the man, momentarily forgetting about the thing inside her purse.
“Ah, don’t bother he turns into a weird person when he drinks a bit too much.” Nino intervened for him.
“Oh, that’s okay then. I don’t want Aiba-kun to be sad ne because…” She started rumbling inside her purse again, gaining even Aiba’s attention. When she finally found what she has been looking for she pulled out a heavenly white envelope with Aiba’s name on it and a cute little heart beside his name. “Hai~ here!” She held out the white envelope, his name turned towards him as she added, “Sumiko-chan loves Aiba-kun, please go out with me!” She said with an energetic, confident and cute voice, her eyes shining from enthusiasm. At the same time the other three men that noticed the noise on the corridor too, came to the Ohmiya room just when the girl confessed. Nino who was still inside, hit his forehead from frustration, Ohno not too much affected by all of it since he saw that Nino was okay. On the other side Rae was holding her arm where the girl gripped, Jun noticing it and made sure she was okay. Lastly there was another person standing there, his mind running marathons and unaware of his expressions.
Aiba-chan… this are the moments I talked about but you never notice them. The crack on Sho’s mask right now is not a crack anymore I think Sho’s mask just fell off his face. I know you are in the center of the attention and I know it’s only me that can see Sho right now. Aiba-chan... I think… I might be wrong but… if my instincts aren’t playing tricks on me again… there is a high possibility that Sho-kun might really love you…
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A/N: So was I right? I really like this chapter xD The two questions now are: What will Aiba do about the confession of that girl? Is Nino's assumption at the end true, does Sho love Aiba for real? We will see about that uuuum next week ^^
Also I just wanted to notify if someone overlooked my oneshot: Our melody, you can read it ---> HERE
Also once again to everyone: Merry Christmas I hope you got nice presents ^^
Any comment/critique/thoughts are welcomed to discuss ^^ Though as always I can't provide you with much answers xDD
Author: andreja1989
Lenght: multichapter
Pairing: Sakuraiba, slight Ohmiya, AibaxOC (Hamada Sumiko), JunxOC (Yoshida Rae)
Rating for this chapter: PG-15 <--- a bit of a bad language
Genre: AU, romance, angst, action, fiction, fluff, school life
Disclaimer: I don't own them, sadly. I own only the OC xD
Summary: He is perfect in many ways because it's how he has to be since he is a butler to the young heir, trying to hide his failures and how much he cares for the young master. On the other side, the heir has a stubborn, arrogant, bratty attitude towards everything around him, especially his butler and always gets what he wants. Is he also hiding something, even from himself? Can these two cope with each other, be honest to each other? What is behind their masks that they show to the world? Can it be something that goes beyond a butler-heir relationship? And what if the danger is at the every little corner of their way, people trying to find out the secret behind Aiba’s family?
<--- PREVIOUS: CHAPTER 9 ~ Truth hurts but friends are always there for you ||| NEXT: CHAPTER 11 ~ Reconcilation and the Safe-keeper --->
_______________________________
In the previous chapter we saw Sho's memory of that fire when he saved Aiba's life and endangered himself in the process. Aiba's reaction towards Sho's explanation was drastic, he was angry at Sho and started to ignore him again, bringing them slowly almost to the point where they started when they met. Sho, seeing that there are situations when he can't be around Aiba, turned on his friends, Ohno and Jun, while Nino was left there to keep Aiba company. Sho explained the situation to Ohno and Jun who understood him and offered him their help. Then we also saw a new character's appearance, what will her part of the story be? What does her appearance mean for Sho and Aiba? You will slowly learn that.
For the next chapter I wanted to warn you that it starts after Aiba came back from meeting with Rae, it's not after Sho's talk with Jun and Ohno, you will understand once you read :). Also I think this is one of my favorites chapters, not because of Sakuraiba but because it states some important facts, maybe all can learn a bit from them. Also you get to see that Aiba and Nino are closer than we all thought, as friends that is. Man I can't say more haha just read it and you will see ^^ Enjoy reading ne and I appologize if the banner looks kinda creepy, it's metaphoric meaning ne~~~
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Chapter 10 ~ Masks
The sound of games being played were heard, the man not paying attention to the pouting man in the same room, wanting some attention while he only shared that with his lover whose lap was very comfortable for his head.
“Nino-chan! Leave the games ne, let’s party today!” Aiba pleaded all the time that he was here, returning from the back of the onsen where he had met with Rae and then ran away because of Sho’s appearance.
“Mmmm…” Nino murmured in return, not paying much attention to him, he already had a hard time with his concentration as Ohno’s fingers brushed his hair from time to time, the coziness hard to bear since their friend was in their room.
“Fine. Then I will party by myself!” Aiba declared, got up and went to the fridge to get some beer. It’s not like Nino-kun or Ohno-kun have to be the one to give me something to drink, we are friends so it’s okay if I take some. Aiba thought when he opened the fridge and looked inside, the insides almost empty. All he could see was beer, snacks and some other, for Aiba unnecessary things. He took one beer for himself and two for his friends but his eyes stopped at some bottle which looked like lotion. In the fridge? What is that? “Ne~ Nino-chan!” Aiba called, heard loud groans of irritation coming from the gamer and then some slow and silent steps. He saw Ohno before himself and understood why all the groaning. “Ano… why is this in the fridge? It’s not supposed to be in the… mm mmm” Aiba wanted to ask but turned silent the same second as Ohno grabbed the bottle and pressed his palm over Aiba’s mouth.
“I don’t want Kazu to hear… don’t tell him…” Ohno mumbled in Aiba’s ear while slowly letting go of his mouth.
“Why is everyone depending on me keeping all the secrets? It’s not good, I don’t want to be involved in what you two have…” Aiba replied, remembering the misunderstanding between Rae and Jun.
“Because we know you will not tell.” Ohno grinned briefly.
Aiba sighed and returned his interest on the bottle and whispered his question:
“Then can you tell me why did you put lotion in the fridge and why Nino-kun can’t find out about it?”
Ohno’s cheeks flushed and he looked at Aiba weirdly. “Y… you are saying you don’t know?”
“Huh? About what?” Aiba raised his eyebrow in disbelief.
“About… lube?” Ohno whispered and flushed even deeper.
“Eh?”
Ohno sighed, took a deep breath, before explaining:
“We need it… khm… for sex…” Ohno slightly pouted as he turned away and placed the bottle back in the fridge. “If it’s cold… if will give Kazu different sensations… so don’t tell him I prepared that for him…” Ohno turned around carefully, afraid that the man would send him weird glares, disgusted look or anything along that line but was surprised to see Aiba interested.
“Eh? You can use that? Never heard of it.” Aiba smiled while his cheeks burned a little bit too.
“Only… men like Kazu and I use it… or if you do it with the girl… there…” Ohno didn’t know how to explain it nicely to the man who obviously didn’t know a thing about gay or anal sex. The man looked confused for a second but then frowned as he saw the familiar figure standing near the door to the kitchen.
“What now?” Aiba asked suddenly annoyed.
“What were you two doing, Nino-kun looks really depressed out there in the living room…”
“Eh?” Left Ohno’s mouth as he rushed to his lover to check what was wrong. Aiba wanted to follow him but Sho stopped him.
“Is everything okay?”
“It’s not your business, now move away!” Aiba ordered but Sho didn’t move one bit. “Are you deaf now? I tell you, no, I order you to move away!”
“Don’t act tough, it doesn’t work on me. Now, what is going on? You are flushed…”
Aiba glared at the man for a few moments, puffing air out of his nose as his anger attacked him once again. As you wish, this will get right to your bones! “Ohno-kun told me about lube and gay sex, is it that wrong? Now move away!” Aiba raised his voice and pushed the frozen man aside to get his way to the living room.
“W… WHAAAAAT?!!!” Sho yelled a second later, the walls threatening to crumble and the three in the living room watched him weirdly, Aiba somehow amusingly. He stomped his way towards the still standing Ohno and grabbed his collar. “YOU!”
“Hey, hey, hey!” Nino got up immediately afraid if a fight would start any moment. “Sho! Knock it off! It’s not funny…”
“And it’s funny when your lover explains to Aiba-kun about g… gay sex and l… lubrication?”
“Re~ally?” Nino sang the moment when he heard the mentioned words. “Do you mind? I mean I don’t mind. I don’t think it’s wrong if the boy knows…” Nino grinned amused but received a deadly glare from Sho.
“OI Sakurai! That’s enough!” Aiba raised his voice again, his authority and displeasure written in his voice and on his face. “Don’t make me change my friends! I’m sure you know what I mean, I’m sure I can do that.” Aiba’s face was serious and Sho immediately knew what was in the heir’s head. True… I can be replaced for you… If you aren’t satisfied with your butler… I can simply pack my things and you wouldn’t even look at my way when I walk from the mansion… Sho thought, his mind becoming clearer again but darker with every thought that went inside his mind, everything that he couldn’t say and even do. His hand slowly let go of Ohno’s collar, fixed it a bit as the other breathed from relief to be free again.
“I’m sorry Ohno-kun… I went too far…” Sho indicated to Ohno, his head low but he looked over at Aiba now, his look distant and slightly lonely. “It’s as you wish… it’s you who can choose your friends… I always respect your decision even if I don’t act this way, remember this Aiba-sama…”
“Whatever…”
“Aiba-sama?” Nino asked, confused by the used honorific. He looked at Sho and Aiba, Ohno following his example.
“Look what you have done again!” Aiba lamented, crossed his arms on his chest, looking at anything else than Sho.
“I apologize… but since they are great friends to us, I plan on telling them. I know they will not tell anyone.”
“Are you crazy? You know what grandfather said, we can’t tell! It’s you who always told me that.” Aiba raised his voice now staring at his butler not understanding what went on inside his head.
“I talked to the elder…”
“What?! When?” Aiba had a new outburst, Nino and Ohno only moving their heads according to who talked which made them look like two mentally disturbed people.
“In the afternoon, after lunch. He said that he trusts my judgment but now I’m asking you if this is all right to do?” Sho was slightly serious, understanding how delicate it was to talk to Aiba at this moment as he was still upset about what he told him the previous night.
“Do as you wish, I don’t care.” Aiba looked away again, sulking.
Sho was silent for a few moments, observing Aiba’s face, waiting if he would say anything else and sighed silently as he looked over to Ohno. “Ohno-kun… may I have a word with you?”
“Hmm? Why?” Ohno asked.
“Don’t worry I will not scold you anymore or anything… that was my overreaction… I want to share the truth about us with you, Jun-kun will also come.” Sho slowly explained and waited for Ohno’s reply.
“Sure, I will come.”
“I want to know too! I want to come…” Nino intervened, holding Ohno’s arm tightly as he already wanted to get up.
“Can Ohno-kun tell you later… I need you to stay with Aiba-kun…”
“But…” Nino started but stopped as he saw somehow pleading look from Sho’s eyes. Sho-kun… what is going on? I never saw you look like this… as if you raised your white flag and begged me to help you… “Fine…” He added, pouting, his mind still thinking about a lot of things about Sho and Aiba. His view dropped on Aiba who sat down at the table, his hands still crossed and he had the moody look not caring what the others were talking about. I will stay here, maybe I will do my small research as I planned a long time ago but never did… besides maybe I can talk to Aiba-kun… these two just can’t go on like this, it’s annoying!
“Then, I’m going with Sho-kun.” Ohno said to his lover to make him let go of his arm so that he could get up and follow Sho out of the room. Once the doors closed Nino looked over at Aiba again who played with his fingers a little bit but then reached for his beer and took some long gulps. He waited if the man would say anything but when he saw that nothing will happen, he took out his phone and started his Google application. I don’t know why but my intuition always told me that they have something great to hide… also Sho-kun once told us that it can be revealed if someone investigates just a little. Well I surely don’t have the money to pay detectives or anything and I’m not that obsessed but when you tell me about investigation, it’s Google for sure! He blinked over at Aiba who was still frowning, obviously deep in his own thoughts. His view turned back to the screen and he typed in Sho’s name. The phone brought him the hits, he browsed through the links and opened the most intriguing one.
[Sakurai Shun, a man with honors, principles and nice education. Being a butler to the xxx family was the step in his life that proves that the long line of butlers in his family is still not broken. Currently his eldest son, Sakurai Sho is gaining attention from the society of the richest people in Japan. There were some doubts if the young student will follow his family’s steps as the Sakurai family is known for professional butlers through many generations. After taking all of his thoughts in consideration it was announced that the young Sakurai will follow his family’s steps after all. Unknown sources also tell that the young butler, even thought he only started his studies, was already assigned to a family that lately stirs a lot of interest. Apparently the families are close friends and can only accept the young Sakurai as the butler to the young heir of Aiba family…]
WAIT! WHAT?!! Nino’s mind exclaimed, his view ran a few lines above, reading them again as he tried to understand. No way!! Butler? Does that still exist? Is this what they were hiding? A butler and heir? Nino slowly peeked at Aiba but got startled and immediately forgot what his dilemma in this moment was as he saw Aiba’s red face, his fingers fidgeting harder as before in his lap while his mouth was tightly shut to not leave even a tiniest voice while his eyes were watery. “Aiba-chan! Oi?!” Nino asked startled as he didn’t know the reason what made the man upset to the point of crying. On top of everything it was the first time he saw him this down. He reached his hand to the other man but backed away again, waiting a few moments but then couldn’t wait anymore than ask, “What’s wrong?”
“Uuuu~…”
“Oh come on, don't show me that ugly face of yours.” Nino teased a little but his good intentions didn't work out on the crying man.
“H... he... Uuuu~…”
“Hm?”
Aiba sniffed, “He is a liar, I hate him!”
“Are you talking about Sho-kun? What happened between you two? You were getting along just fine, why the sudden change?” Nino intrigued, worried for his friends.
“He said he would never lie to me! Now... I found out that...” Aiba raised his view to Nino, tears trickling down his face and he showed a doubtful expression. “How much do you know about us?”
“Sho-kun and you?” Aiba nodded. “Well... I just found out... I still doubt it's true, maybe it's you who can tell me... Umm... is Sho-kun really your butler and are you really a kid of a wealthy family?” He asked straightforward and observed the other man's surprised expression.
“Did he tell you?”
Nino waved his head and smiled briefly:
“I Googled. So it's true?” He widened his eyes at Aiba's slight nod.
“Will that make you look at me differently now?” Aiba asked a bit frightened and reached over the table to grab on Nino's sleeve. “Nino-kun...”
“Are you kidding?” Nino asked with a serious expression, startling Aiba in the process. He waited a few more seconds and only then smiled, stuck his tongue out and held Aiba's hand that was still gripping on his sleeve, his eyes teary. “Aiba-chan is still Aiba-chan. What changed now is only my understanding about you two. I'm really sorry I thought you two are together... I even... made you two kiss... How stupid am I really? Now... I know what made you two behave the way you did. I understand your cold attitude towards him in the beginning and especially his hanging around with you at any cost, following you, making sure everything was the way it was supposed to be. But... are you willing to tell me what happened between you two. Recently you were getting along well but since yesterday something changed. I'm your and Sho-kun's friend, no matter who you two are or what is going on.”
Aiba's eyes moistened up again, relief overwhelming him. “Thank you Nino-chan... You are a really good friend, not like him!”
“Aiba-chan...”
“H... he is fake, faking his every thing that he does or says. I thought that he was my friend, that I could trust him... he should have told me everything to me. That's what friends are. Why did he keep such a thing to himself. Now I know that he can't keep his words to me. He hid the fact that he knew me before he came to me one month ago. He hid it that no one was able to help my parents that day! That I was meant to be dead that day too but because of him I'm not!!”
A loud sound was heard as Nino's fist hit the table, jerking the other man a little bit from his monologue. “Don't you ever blame him for doing that, ever again did you hear me?!! You should be glad, thankful to live! I'm sure he endangered himself to save you and you are only thinking of why did you survive! Don't fucking mess with me!”
“Nino-kun...” Aiba observed the gamer, surprised by the sudden outburst of his. “He saved me that's true, he was hurt too but he had no right to save my life... why would...”
“You still don't get it do you?!!” Nino replied strictly. “He made his choice. It's not important if he is or was at that time your butler or not, he acted as a human being. Anyone that would know that someone is in danger would go there and try to save as many people as possible. Don't blame him for being a human, at least he shows that he is not made of stone as he often acts.”
“But my parents... why didn't they get a chance like I did?”
“Maybe it was their time Aiba-kun...” Nino continued a bit gentler, understanding that it was something painful for his friend. “Obviously it wasn't your time and neither Sho-kun's because you two are still here with us. Maybe it was meant for you to live, maybe you have a purpose in your life I don't know. Just don't ever again think that your life is not worth living okay? You have a lot of people around you now...” Aiba sniffed again, understanding the words that Nino was telling him. “You miss them right?”
“You can't imagine... I think of them all the time... I remember all the things we did together, all the memories are sweet but so painful... I can't imagine that they aren't here anymore... No one even gave me the chance to face myself and grief... I had to go on, battling with everyday, having Sho-kun follow me around all the time while all I wanted was peace and some loneliness. He says how perfect he has to be but he is not all that great... he lies to me, hides things from me and... he doesn't understand me at all.”
“Do you wish to be understood by him and to hear what he has to say?” Nino asked slowly thinking how stupid the man is at this moment for not even noticing simple things that even he did.
“I mean... he could...”
“Can I tell you what I honestly think?” Aiba raised his view again, his questionable look explaining his wish to hear it. “You are a big idiot you know that and Sho-kun is the same actually... Tell me why are you telling me all this?”
“Hm? I don't understand...”
Nino sighed as he asked again, “Why are you explaining your mind, wishes and emotions to me? What makes me worthy to listen to your whining?”
“Why? Because you are my friend, I know you will listen to me, maybe scold me but I know you do that because you worry for me.” Aiba explained, his eyes turning soft.
“That's true I would do that but did you talk to Sho-kun about this too?”
“No...”
“Isn't he your friend too?”
“Yes, he...”
“No!” Nino interrupted him sternly. “That's only what you try to convince yourself. You don't see Sho-kun as a real friend, you don't explain how you feel, what you want to him. When Sho-kun wants to talk, you run away, you hide inside your shell, wall of thick ice. When Sho-kun acts on his own because he worries and cares for you like he did just before as Satoshi talked to you about gay sex you scold him, yell at him and make him obey you as you have the authority over him. That's not friendship to me! I would never be a friend with someone that would act this way towards me, its wrong! You can't force him to do anything you want, you still see him as your butler who has to obey you.” Nino stopped for a moment to take a deep breath before continuing, “Don't expect him to understand you if it's also you who can't understand him.”
Aiba was quiet for a few moments to chew on Nino’s words silently knowing that the man was right but didn’t know what he wants him to do. “Then do you understand him? He doesn't say anything or does anything that would make me understand him anyway.”
“Aiba-chan people don't always feel the way they show it to the outside, you should know all about this. You act tough and unaffected while you are vulnerable and caring. Girls often put on make-up just to hide who they really are, not only to hide what they think is wrong with their face but some also hide their true selves behind it. Another example are the masks at the carnivals, did you ever see one? Masks are meant to hide emotions, you do it all the time and it's also Sho-kun who does that. Everyone has a side to themselves that they can't show to just anyone but sometimes masks crack. There appears a tiny crack and if you notice it before the person hides or fixes it again, you get the chance to see what's under it. Lately your crack on your mask is getting bigger and I don't mind that because I'm glad you show it to me, that I'm worthy to see your true face. Towards Sho-kun, your crack is barely visible. I also saw Sho-kun's crack on his mask of coolness and strictness. You want to know what I saw?” Aiba listened closely and nodded at the last question. “Sho-kun is lonely... scared... and...” He wanted to add caring but loud voices from the hallway disturbed him. The still surprised, a bit frozen Aiba, who was thinking over Nino's words, was silently sitting at the table while Nino got up to check what the noise was all about. “What’s going on here?” He asked as he saw the familiar girl, to be exact, Jun’s girlfriend who had a tired, slightly annoyed look on her face while the other, fair haired girl with a nice face held her hand and smiled brightly.
“Hello, I’m Hamada Sumiko.” The girl let go of Rae’s hand who looked relieved and bowed nicely to the two men in the room. When her head raised up again, her view landed on Aiba. “Rae-chan was so nice, she promised to me that I can meet Aiba-kun.” She giggled slightly. “Aiba-kun…” She called him to gain his attention and wake him up from his daze as he still thought about Nino’s words about Sho. He slowly looked up to the girl who searched for something inside her purse while she entered the room and came closer to the sitting Aiba. “Eeeeh~ did you cry?” She squatted to the man, momentarily forgetting about the thing inside her purse.
“Ah, don’t bother he turns into a weird person when he drinks a bit too much.” Nino intervened for him.
“Oh, that’s okay then. I don’t want Aiba-kun to be sad ne because…” She started rumbling inside her purse again, gaining even Aiba’s attention. When she finally found what she has been looking for she pulled out a heavenly white envelope with Aiba’s name on it and a cute little heart beside his name. “Hai~ here!” She held out the white envelope, his name turned towards him as she added, “Sumiko-chan loves Aiba-kun, please go out with me!” She said with an energetic, confident and cute voice, her eyes shining from enthusiasm. At the same time the other three men that noticed the noise on the corridor too, came to the Ohmiya room just when the girl confessed. Nino who was still inside, hit his forehead from frustration, Ohno not too much affected by all of it since he saw that Nino was okay. On the other side Rae was holding her arm where the girl gripped, Jun noticing it and made sure she was okay. Lastly there was another person standing there, his mind running marathons and unaware of his expressions.
Aiba-chan… this are the moments I talked about but you never notice them. The crack on Sho’s mask right now is not a crack anymore I think Sho’s mask just fell off his face. I know you are in the center of the attention and I know it’s only me that can see Sho right now. Aiba-chan... I think… I might be wrong but… if my instincts aren’t playing tricks on me again… there is a high possibility that Sho-kun might really love you…
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A/N: So was I right? I really like this chapter xD The two questions now are: What will Aiba do about the confession of that girl? Is Nino's assumption at the end true, does Sho love Aiba for real? We will see about that uuuum next week ^^
Also I just wanted to notify if someone overlooked my oneshot: Our melody, you can read it ---> HERE
Also once again to everyone: Merry Christmas I hope you got nice presents ^^
Any comment/critique/thoughts are welcomed to discuss ^^ Though as always I can't provide you with much answers xDD