[Series] Behind my mask - Chapter 14 / 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
Genre: AU, romance, angst, action, fantasy, 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 13 ~ Grief, guilt and love ||| NEXT: CHAPTER 15 ~ I want you --->
___________________________
Previous chapter was a really sad one as you all saw. Firstly let's not forget how Aiba tended to Sho's slight cut on his shoulder and even more importantly the bucket of emotions they spilled on the cemetary after Aiba's parents, Aiba finally facing his grief and Sho showing Aiba his guilt he felt all the time until now. Lastly the most important thing, Sho finally told us about his emotions towards his master after we found out that Aiba wanted to start dating with Hamada Sumiko. Now let's see what happens 4 months later, yeah you read that right, I skipped so much time because I don't want to bug you with Sumiko because this is Sakuraiba fanfic and not OC one ne :))) So who is Hamada Sumiko, who longs for who and what is the meaning of the planning that is said in the title of this chapter. Read and you will find out. xD Enjoy
Chapter 14 ~ Longing and planning
[Four months later…]
»Ne~ Masaki…« Sumiko called Aiba with her sweet voice as she was in his embrace, the latter stroking her hair. »Kiss me…« She demanded sweetly, lovingly and Aiba slowly landed his lips on hers, her palms wrapped around his neck, pulled him closer and slowly maneuvered to her bedroom, both soon landing on top of it. Aiba slightly raised his head, looking at her with love in his eyes.
»Is it okay… this…« Aiba slightly stammered while she raised herself up a little to kiss his lips again.
»If you don't then I might…« She smiled seducing, smile plastered on her face while Aiba grinned amusingly, lowered again to continue their lovemaking, clothes slowly leaving their bodies.
»Sakurai-san!« A little raised voice woke Sho up from his thoughts. He blinked a few times to realize again that he was still sitting inside the car, the driver calling him for the tenth time.
»Are you all right? You don't look well…« The driver asked with worry in his voice.
»I'm fine, don't worry about me.« Sho reached inside his pocket for a handkerchief to wipe his cold sweat that covered his face after his imagination made his mind slightly dizzy. Just a few minutes ago he made sure that Aiba safely arrived to the house outside the car. It was a small house, big enough for Hamada Sumiko and her mother to live in. It was four months that Aiba and her started dating and Aiba finally, after a lot of thoughts said to come to her place to celebrate their four months anniversary. Sho saw how happily Aiba left the car, saying that he will call when he wants to go back home and not to wait for him. Then he left towards her house which was not far away from the car, smiling brightly as he saw her at the doorstep, waving at him. Sho observed them to make sure that Aiba would safely made inside the house, slight pain hitting his heart as Aiba wrapped his hand around her slim waist and pecked a small kiss on her cheek before going inside. The butler however, even though he was told to go home, stayed there, had silly thoughts of what could have happened once the pair was inside and let the driver wait and wait and wait until finally he decided to call the butler.
»Should we head home for now?« The driver asked as Sho regained his clear mind, banishing away all those silly thoughts.
»Let's just wait…« Sho replied silently but loud enough for driver to hear him. They were parked in the nearby alley but close enough to observe the house. Sho still wanted to be sure that no one would come inside, after all he was still Aiba's butler, besides being a friend for almost half a year. Even though he shared special feelings towards his master and friend he let him have fun with his girlfriend as much as he could while he decided to stay in the shadows, still holding his mask of indifference tightly on his face, trying to be the friend that Aiba needed.
“I understand.” The driver replied and let his hands rest down from the wheel, silent music leaving the radio as the two sat there saying nothing for a few moments. “Sakurai-san you really like to watch over Aiba-sama…” The driver tried to start with the small talk.
“It’s my duty.” Sho replied simply.
“True but following them always around… isn’t it a little bit too much?”
“I decide that and if I think that this is necessary then I do it.” Sho replied, his hands crossed on his chest as he leaned back in the seat, his view turning outside the window.
“I apologize if I asked too much.” The driver observed Sho’s face in the rear mirror.
“It’s all right.” Sho replied melancholy. Actually… I have been following him too much… he is right… In the past four months I kept following them anywhere they went, to the park, movies, café, meal… anywhere. It’s true I have to keep him safe but this is obviously too much, slowly I became a stalker, a pain striking me every time their hands touched, when she whispers something into his ear and he giggles like a kid, when she touches his hair… I thought this would be okay but it’s driving me insane… I can’t watch it, I can’t sleep at night, I turn around but the only thing that I’m able to do is see Aiba-kun’s happy face, his glittering eyes when he explains how his date was, what she said, how cute she is and all. Everything is so much worse as she is our classmate… After they started dating she moved to sit beside Aiba-kun, draining all his attention to himself while I had to move on the other side of Aiba-kun. While he is talking with Hamada-san, forgetting about me, I got stuck alone because the Ohmiya pair on the other side who had their own talks. Like I was stuck between them, like a fifth wheel, luckily at least Ohno-kun or Nino-kun ended up talking to me from time to time, maybe feeling sorry for me or something but I was grateful, this way I could relax more, talk to someone and escape from my thoughts. Jun-kun and Rae-chan also came to talk more during the breaks, Jun-kun was really considerate of me. ‘If you need someone to talk to, come to us.’ He said the other day; he really is something beside his DoS side, mocking Aiba-kun from time to time. But honestly he really cares for all his friends. I know that Nino-kun and Ohno-kun care for us too but honestly I think they are often in their own worlds, giggling and whispering something in each other’s ears. Really I noticed them touching each other during classes, really I don’t know what are they thinking and why are even in class if they could simply go to their dear making out places. Why do they need to involve my poor soul into their business? Because I don’t know how long can I hold on of all of this… Suddenly I’m embraced with a lot of friends that I haven’t had before but still I feel lonely, as if I’m in a room, screaming but no one hears me. Still, all that doesn’t mean anything as long as I see Aiba-kun smile, I can hold on, he is happy and that’s all that matters. Sho thought deeply, remembering what all happened during the past few months. He was tired by all the sleepless nights, by all the unhealthy way of eating, leaned his head back, closing his eyes and then slowly dozed off in his sleep.
He groaned in his sleep and slowly opening his eyes, still half way looking he realized that his phone was ringing. He tugged his hand in his pocket and answered the call.
“Sho-kun, can you come pick me up?” Aiba’s voice woke him up completely, even more so as he heard her giggles in the back.
“Yeah… I will be there in ten minutes.” Sho slightly grumbled in the phone.
“Ne~ did I wake you up? You sound like you were sleeping…” Aiba continued.
“It’s all right, be ready when I come, we can talk later.” Sho replied while leaning his elbow on his thigh and his head falling in his opened palm.
“Hai, I understand!” Aiba replied enthusiastically, almost too loud for Sho’s still sleeping ears and mind, he only mumbled something in return and ended the call. He leaned back and sighed deeply. This isn’t good… I’m becoming selfish and arrogant… There was no need to talk to him this coldly… Stupid Sho, put yourself together! Sho scolded himself as he slightly stretched his arms, yawned and then slowly hit his cheeks to be completely awake. His hand ran through his hair, sighing again and observed the clean ceiling of the car, not looking at anything particular, still angry at himself. Then he looked at his watch, realizing that it was the time to go, slowly leaned to the driver who was also soundly sleeping and nudged him slightly to wake him up.
“We need to go and pick him up.” Sho said simply and felt slightly stupid to say that as they needed to drive only a few meters away to pick him up, never even leaving the spot where they left him off. Once the engine was started, it passed only half a minute and they were already before the door, seeing how Aiba hopped towards the street with Sumiko right behind him. Sho quickly opened the doors and held them for Aiba who was still saying his farewells for today.
“Kiss…” Sumiko asked for and pursed her lips a bit, waiting for Aiba’s lips but the latter pecked her cheek again. She looked at him and then at Sho, observing him closely with suspicious expression on her face. “Okay, see you tomorrow… and don’t forget what I said, maybe I’m right.” She smiled brightly while looking at Sho again, a grin appearing on her lips, sending slight shiver through the latter’s back.
“I told you it’s not what you think but I will try to find out.” Aiba replied, waved and slowly hopped in the car, Sho bowing to her as she was already used to, knowing that Sho was Aiba’s butler and had to do his formalities now and not at school. After raising his head again, Sho observed her now for a moment but went inside the car too, closing them behind him while Aiba still waved at his girlfriend, the driver slowly taking off. “Uwah that was funny.” Aiba exclaimed and stretched his hands up in the air. “Ne~ we…”
“Can this wait until we get home?” Sho asked bluntly, disturbing Aiba’s predicted waves of talking. “I’m tired to listen now, you must forgive me…”
“You really don’t look fine…” Aiba suddenly turned serious, observed him, leaned his palm on Sho’s forehead but it was pushed aside, his eyebrows furrowing in frustration. Aiba slowly pulled his hand back to himself, his view turning a bit hurt, as if he was a pest that Sho didn’t allow to touch him. “What’s wrong? Why are you angry?”
“I’m not.” Sho replied shortly.
“You are… you are furrowing and breathing faster…” Aiba explained his thinking but Sho didn’t reply or look at him. “Ne~ mind telling me?” Sho still didn’t reply. “Sho-kun? Ne~…” Aiba tried to talk to him again but the latter didn’t have the will to talk in this moment or to explain himself. He turned to the side, watching the streetlights shining upon the dark streets, rushing by them while Aiba was silent too, looked at Sho a little bit longer but decided to drop it. If he doesn’t want to talk this out, why should I push him?! He pouted slightly and turned back to face forward, waiting to get home.
Once home Aiba stomped inside his room, followed by Sho who made sure the heir would take a proper bath before going to bed as it was already late. Aiba pouted again, still interested to know what has upset Sho this much but at the same time thought about the words that Sumiko said to him. I said she just imagines thing but was she right? He thought after taking the pajama from Sho’s hands, looking at him a few more moments. “Ne~ is it okay if we talk a little bit later, I need to ask you something…” Aiba tried his luck to talk to his friend.
“I will wait here.” Sho replied, Aiba nodded and went inside the bathroom, thinking how stupid his question later will be but he just needed to ask him and he did as he came out of the bathroom later. “Now tell me why were you upset before. I won’t let you leave until you tell me.”
Sho blinked at the heir a few times, thinking how to reply. “I am tired, it was a long day and…”
“Then why did you wait in the car? Why not going home as I said so?” Aiba started straightly with his dilemma.
“You… noticed?”
“Do I look that stupid?” Aiba joked, “I waited outside with Sumiko-chan, there was no one around, it was silent when all of a sudden engine started, lights turned on and our car came to pick me up. I am not blind, deaf or stupid yet.”
“So you noticed…”
“Well I said so, didn’t I?” Aiba pouted and continued, “Did you wait again to make sure I was safe?” Sho nodded. “I don’t understand why, Sumiko-chan is a nice girl, she wouldn’t hurt me or anything…”
“I know.”
“Well I didn’t intend to ask you this but since you have been acting strangely lately I have to say it. I didn’t actually come up with this, it’s what Sumiko-chan asked me and I was really surprised that she came up with this kind of thought…” Aiba trailed off.
“What did she say?” Sho asked interested.
“Sho-kun…” Aiba breathed out deeply and leaned in towards Sho, “Do you by any chance like me?” Sho flinched a little, his eyes blinking a few times, his heart almost stopping and he had to force himself to calm down, breathe and don’t let his face to turn pinkish or worse red. They were silent for a moment when Sho finally gathered his courage to utter:
“No… I don’t… at least not in a romantic way…”
Aiba started to laugh, “Thought so!” He laughed some more but didn’t understood why his heart suddenly slightly throbbed as if he was sad, disappointed by Sho’s answer.
“Well you are my master and a friend, that’s all to it.” Sho added, pain inside his chest unbearable. How I wish I could tell you the truth but… you are happy… I shouldn’t cause you pain if I selfishly tell you my feelings… Sho found himself torn between his responsibilities as Aiba’s butler and his feelings towards him as a man, it was tearing him apart but he knew he had to hold on.
“Then why are you so strange lately?” Aiba asked again, trying to overwhelm his strange feeling he had.
“My strange behavior counts as butler work right? Then I can’t tell you my reasons, what I wish for you is happiness and you have that. I’m sorry if my behavior has caused you worry or doubts but actually there is no special reason behind it.”
“You are telling me the truth?”
Sho came closer to the heir and patted his head, “I am, now take Mao-kun and go to bed, it’s late, you should rest, tomorrow begins new week and you should have the usual energy to be as hyper as always.” Sho forced a smile on his face and escorted Aiba to the bed, moved the covers away so that the heir could climb in. Aiba searched for his bear in his hands and snuggled it to his chest while Sho covered him up. “Sleep well.” Sho added, patting his head again and slowly moved away towards the doors, turned the light off and just when he wanted to leave Aiba muttered a slight:
“Sweet dreams Sho-chan.”
Sho’s heart made wild turns, his mind screaming to run there and hug the man that called him this sweetly but resisted his urge, held on the doorknob tightly. “You too.” He replied sadly before slowly closing the door. Outside he leaned on the door, feeling the safety to let his emotions out, silent tears wetting his face up as he slowly took refuge to his own room.
***
[A few days later…]
“What is it? What is so urgent that you needed to speak with me?” Sho asked surprised as he stood on the school’s rooftop, Rae standing against him. Just a few minutes ago she stopped him on the hallway as he was going to have his lunch at the cafeteria and as it looked like he will have to forget about it, his stomach releasing loud protests.
“You don’t look good…” She uttered worried.
“Well thank you for the worry. I’m hungry, that’s all.” Sho replied jokingly and noticed how she started rumbling through her bag, bringing out one roll and handed it to him.
“Here, eat this instead while talking to me.”
“This is yours, I won’t eat what is supposed to be yours.” Sho protested.
“I have another one, Jun-chan bough two thinking that I’m an elephant, which I’m not as you can see. I can’t eat both so please take this one.” She smiled and Sho finally took it, thanking her for the offer. “Still, you don’t look good.” She added.
“Are you joking? What’s now?” Sho smiled bitterly as taking the first bite on the roll.
“It’s okay to talk openly with me. I know.”
“What?” Sho raised his head.
“You love Aiba-kun am I right?” She blurted, Sho suddenly staring at her.
“Don’t be silly, Aiba-kun is my friend and you also know that I’m a butler to him. Where did those thoughts bloom from exactly?”
“I understand if you don’t want to admit it, I won’t even force you to but… there is something more important that I wanted to talk about.”
Sho looked at her a few moments and saw her honesty. After all this time he was still reluctant about this girl now not as much as not trusting her but more like don’t like her because she was the one that introduced Sumiko to them, causing Aiba to date her. He tried to be nice but these thought were always lingering inside his thoughts and he may have treated her a bit badly at sometimes. “Explain then.”
“First of all…” She started to hesitate, breathed hard and gained the courage to face Sho, “…please forgive me for bringing Sumiko into our lives…”
“What? Why all of a sudden…? Why are you apologizing for that? She is your friend and it’s okay to introduce your friends to us.” Sho replied, shaken by her words.
“Actually… we weren’t friends as I introduced her… she just noticed us suddenly talking to Aiba, she gained interest in him and then bugged me day in and day out to let her meet him.”
“She really must have liked Aiba-kun since then, I understand her in this way but from your point maybe she was a little bit too pushy and should have approached him on her own.” Sho explained calmly, trying to understand both sides.
“You don’t understand… even I didn’t… until yesterday…” Rae lowered her head.
“Yesterday?”
Rae nodded and looked up again, “She tricked all of us!” Sho gaped and stared at her, wanted to ask for more explanation when she already continued, “Sho-kun yesterday I saw her downtown… She was with a guy and they looked really close. Interested, I followed them… then I heard him ask her how is her relationship with that rich kid going. I knew he talked about Aiba and I saw her smile wickedly saying that it is going well, she protested as the relationship was proceeding so slow, apparently they didn’t even share a proper kiss yet. Then…” Rae stared at Sho, not knowing how to continue which made Sho impatient while at the same time he felt relieved that Aiba and Sumiko didn’t progress that fast as he thought they had.
“What happened then?” Sho asked impatiently.
“She said all she wants is to accidently get pregnant so that she can get Aiba’s money…” Rae peeked at Sho, afraid to know his reaction.
“What… did… you… say?” Sho asked slowly, word by word, his voice suddenly low.
“You damn heard me, I don’t want to repeat it!” Rae raised her voice and stared at him bravely. “We have to stop her! I don’t care about an ill person like her! Approaching someone who is this earnest and pure just because of money! She doesn’t have much money as I but I would never fall on her level, using dirty tricks to gain wealth and respect. I don’t want her to succeed! She looks innocent and nice but inside she is a rotten person, planning to bring down Aiba-kun!” She reached for Sho’s shoulders who was blankly standing there, his mind raging. “Sho-kun! I’m here to help… I will do anything… If you do care for Aiba-kun… if you sincerely wish him good, then don’t let him fall into her trap even deeper! You… ah!” She wanted to say something else but was startled at sudden, tight hold on her hand, grabbing her harshly. She looked at her right and saw Jun standing there, his look angry. “Chotto! Jun-chan what are you doing? Let go, it hurts me!”
“There is no way I’m letting you go!” Jun replied with the same harsh voice and tried to drag her away, holding her hand tightly as Sho rushed after them, tried to stop him.
“Jun-kun, please calm down, it’s not what you think…” Sho trailed off but Jun suddenly turned, slightly pushed Sho away, pulled Rae closer to himself while growling at Sho:
“Stay the hell away from my girl!”
“Jun! Come on, you know Sho-kun won’t try anything on me. Cut the crap with your DoS jealousy and think clearly. We discussed about Aiba-kun, can’t we?”
“And why the hell would you want to talk to him about Aiba-kun in private?” Jun continued with his interrogation.
“Because we need to break up Aiba-kun and Hamada-chan!” Rae opposed her boyfriend, maybe the only one who was able to in the whole world.
“What? Why?”
“Because she is deceiving him and besides, if you are that interested Jun, Sho-kun loves Aiba-chan!” She reasoned out as she tried to free herself from his grasp while Jun froze at his tracks, his view turning to Sho. “Does that calm you down?! Geez!” She finally pulled her hands from his grasp while Jun looked at Sho confused while Sho sighed deeply.
“Can you two just post it on the billboard already?” Sho mumbled while his cheeks colored in slight pink.
Jun suddenly started to smile, turned to his pouting girlfriend, “I’m sorry babe…” He sighed, “But you know how I am, don’t be upset okay. It’s not that I don’t trust you two but seeing you sneak to the roof made my blood boil.” He turned to Sho, “I also own you an apology.”
“Don’t Jun-kun, it’s okay, I’m already used to your outbursts.” Sho smiled.
“You are just stupid.” Rae commented.
“So, as far as I understood you two, we have a lot of work to do regarding Aiba-kun and Hamada-san.” Jun asked Sho while he let his hand slip on Rae’s shoulder, holding her possessively. Sho again remembered what Rae told him, his blood boiling while mind thinking wildly until a plan popped inside his mind.
“Leave this to me, I made a plan.” Sho replied as calmly as possible, confident to go along his plan.
“Dare to explain?” Rae asked interested and Sho slowly explained what his mind just planned.
“Are you sure Sho-kun? That would make Aiba-kun upset… I mean he could be angry at you and not about the fact that she deceived him…” Jun asked as Sho finished his explanation but only looked at him coldly.
“I don’t care actually… maybe I thought too much about his happiness. Maybe I should just make him realize that many things aren’t as he thinks they are.”
“I see that someone got a little bit of my DoS side.” Jun grinned. “Listen Sho-kun, it’s okay to be selfish at times. Maybe a little push or disappointment can lead to good results. Make Aiba realize that he should value those who are honest with him and those, who love him earnestly.”
“Oi, don’t teach him too much.” Rae lamented. “Still, it’s true that you loved him secretly, let yourself suffer because he was too blind to notice it. Maybe you should ignore him more and suddenly maybe he will realize that he started to get used to your presence and took you for granted.”
“You are right. I will do just that.” Sho replied determined. Hamada Sumiko you will fall, I swear I will bring you down! This is what happens to the ones who mess with Aiba family and at the same time with me. This will hurt you Aiba-kun but this is for your own good. I promised to act if something went wrong so you must forgive me to show her true face to you in that manner.
__________________________________
A/N: So this is the new chapter for this week, somehow it's just a few minutes over Midnight here so haha it's Sunday already :)
So how was it? Sumiko is mean after all xDD That's why I wanted to let her leave the story as soon as possible :)) So Sho, Jun and Rae are planning now to seperate them and I can assure you Ohmiya will join too. What is in their plan? That stays a secret until next week ne :) Which reminds me, the title of the next chapter is: I want you *Q* omg omg what would it mean? hihi
Personal if someone is interested (those who don't know yet): My wisdom tooth extraction went well I was even surprised myself ^^ Was really scared going there but I was out in like 10 minutes haha I luckily had no major swelling, only in the beginning because of anestetic and I cooled that down with some ice packs and I luckily had no pain either, took some painkillers just in case of fever because I felt hot but had no fever which I thought was kinda strange but okay. I also survived liquid foods xD Am slowly bringing my normal food back in my meals but am still a bit careful ne~~
Short announcement: Yes acording to japan time it's a bit more than 2 days until Sho's birthday and as he is my ichiban I can't resist doing a oneshot again ne :) It's written for a while now and it will be posted on wednessday, a day before my first exam =.= So look forward to that ne and wish me luck on my first exam for this year xDD
Any comments/critique/thoughts are welcomed :))
Author: andreja1989
Lenght: multichapter
Pairing: Sakuraiba, slight Ohmiya, AibaxOC (Hamada Sumiko), JunxOC (Yoshida Rae)
Rating for this chapter: PG-15
Genre: AU, romance, angst, action, fantasy, 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 13 ~ Grief, guilt and love ||| NEXT: CHAPTER 15 ~ I want you --->
___________________________
Previous chapter was a really sad one as you all saw. Firstly let's not forget how Aiba tended to Sho's slight cut on his shoulder and even more importantly the bucket of emotions they spilled on the cemetary after Aiba's parents, Aiba finally facing his grief and Sho showing Aiba his guilt he felt all the time until now. Lastly the most important thing, Sho finally told us about his emotions towards his master after we found out that Aiba wanted to start dating with Hamada Sumiko. Now let's see what happens 4 months later, yeah you read that right, I skipped so much time because I don't want to bug you with Sumiko because this is Sakuraiba fanfic and not OC one ne :))) So who is Hamada Sumiko, who longs for who and what is the meaning of the planning that is said in the title of this chapter. Read and you will find out. xD Enjoy
Chapter 14 ~ Longing and planning
[Four months later…]
»Ne~ Masaki…« Sumiko called Aiba with her sweet voice as she was in his embrace, the latter stroking her hair. »Kiss me…« She demanded sweetly, lovingly and Aiba slowly landed his lips on hers, her palms wrapped around his neck, pulled him closer and slowly maneuvered to her bedroom, both soon landing on top of it. Aiba slightly raised his head, looking at her with love in his eyes.
»Is it okay… this…« Aiba slightly stammered while she raised herself up a little to kiss his lips again.
»If you don't then I might…« She smiled seducing, smile plastered on her face while Aiba grinned amusingly, lowered again to continue their lovemaking, clothes slowly leaving their bodies.
»Sakurai-san!« A little raised voice woke Sho up from his thoughts. He blinked a few times to realize again that he was still sitting inside the car, the driver calling him for the tenth time.
»Are you all right? You don't look well…« The driver asked with worry in his voice.
»I'm fine, don't worry about me.« Sho reached inside his pocket for a handkerchief to wipe his cold sweat that covered his face after his imagination made his mind slightly dizzy. Just a few minutes ago he made sure that Aiba safely arrived to the house outside the car. It was a small house, big enough for Hamada Sumiko and her mother to live in. It was four months that Aiba and her started dating and Aiba finally, after a lot of thoughts said to come to her place to celebrate their four months anniversary. Sho saw how happily Aiba left the car, saying that he will call when he wants to go back home and not to wait for him. Then he left towards her house which was not far away from the car, smiling brightly as he saw her at the doorstep, waving at him. Sho observed them to make sure that Aiba would safely made inside the house, slight pain hitting his heart as Aiba wrapped his hand around her slim waist and pecked a small kiss on her cheek before going inside. The butler however, even though he was told to go home, stayed there, had silly thoughts of what could have happened once the pair was inside and let the driver wait and wait and wait until finally he decided to call the butler.
»Should we head home for now?« The driver asked as Sho regained his clear mind, banishing away all those silly thoughts.
»Let's just wait…« Sho replied silently but loud enough for driver to hear him. They were parked in the nearby alley but close enough to observe the house. Sho still wanted to be sure that no one would come inside, after all he was still Aiba's butler, besides being a friend for almost half a year. Even though he shared special feelings towards his master and friend he let him have fun with his girlfriend as much as he could while he decided to stay in the shadows, still holding his mask of indifference tightly on his face, trying to be the friend that Aiba needed.
“I understand.” The driver replied and let his hands rest down from the wheel, silent music leaving the radio as the two sat there saying nothing for a few moments. “Sakurai-san you really like to watch over Aiba-sama…” The driver tried to start with the small talk.
“It’s my duty.” Sho replied simply.
“True but following them always around… isn’t it a little bit too much?”
“I decide that and if I think that this is necessary then I do it.” Sho replied, his hands crossed on his chest as he leaned back in the seat, his view turning outside the window.
“I apologize if I asked too much.” The driver observed Sho’s face in the rear mirror.
“It’s all right.” Sho replied melancholy. Actually… I have been following him too much… he is right… In the past four months I kept following them anywhere they went, to the park, movies, café, meal… anywhere. It’s true I have to keep him safe but this is obviously too much, slowly I became a stalker, a pain striking me every time their hands touched, when she whispers something into his ear and he giggles like a kid, when she touches his hair… I thought this would be okay but it’s driving me insane… I can’t watch it, I can’t sleep at night, I turn around but the only thing that I’m able to do is see Aiba-kun’s happy face, his glittering eyes when he explains how his date was, what she said, how cute she is and all. Everything is so much worse as she is our classmate… After they started dating she moved to sit beside Aiba-kun, draining all his attention to himself while I had to move on the other side of Aiba-kun. While he is talking with Hamada-san, forgetting about me, I got stuck alone because the Ohmiya pair on the other side who had their own talks. Like I was stuck between them, like a fifth wheel, luckily at least Ohno-kun or Nino-kun ended up talking to me from time to time, maybe feeling sorry for me or something but I was grateful, this way I could relax more, talk to someone and escape from my thoughts. Jun-kun and Rae-chan also came to talk more during the breaks, Jun-kun was really considerate of me. ‘If you need someone to talk to, come to us.’ He said the other day; he really is something beside his DoS side, mocking Aiba-kun from time to time. But honestly he really cares for all his friends. I know that Nino-kun and Ohno-kun care for us too but honestly I think they are often in their own worlds, giggling and whispering something in each other’s ears. Really I noticed them touching each other during classes, really I don’t know what are they thinking and why are even in class if they could simply go to their dear making out places. Why do they need to involve my poor soul into their business? Because I don’t know how long can I hold on of all of this… Suddenly I’m embraced with a lot of friends that I haven’t had before but still I feel lonely, as if I’m in a room, screaming but no one hears me. Still, all that doesn’t mean anything as long as I see Aiba-kun smile, I can hold on, he is happy and that’s all that matters. Sho thought deeply, remembering what all happened during the past few months. He was tired by all the sleepless nights, by all the unhealthy way of eating, leaned his head back, closing his eyes and then slowly dozed off in his sleep.
He groaned in his sleep and slowly opening his eyes, still half way looking he realized that his phone was ringing. He tugged his hand in his pocket and answered the call.
“Sho-kun, can you come pick me up?” Aiba’s voice woke him up completely, even more so as he heard her giggles in the back.
“Yeah… I will be there in ten minutes.” Sho slightly grumbled in the phone.
“Ne~ did I wake you up? You sound like you were sleeping…” Aiba continued.
“It’s all right, be ready when I come, we can talk later.” Sho replied while leaning his elbow on his thigh and his head falling in his opened palm.
“Hai, I understand!” Aiba replied enthusiastically, almost too loud for Sho’s still sleeping ears and mind, he only mumbled something in return and ended the call. He leaned back and sighed deeply. This isn’t good… I’m becoming selfish and arrogant… There was no need to talk to him this coldly… Stupid Sho, put yourself together! Sho scolded himself as he slightly stretched his arms, yawned and then slowly hit his cheeks to be completely awake. His hand ran through his hair, sighing again and observed the clean ceiling of the car, not looking at anything particular, still angry at himself. Then he looked at his watch, realizing that it was the time to go, slowly leaned to the driver who was also soundly sleeping and nudged him slightly to wake him up.
“We need to go and pick him up.” Sho said simply and felt slightly stupid to say that as they needed to drive only a few meters away to pick him up, never even leaving the spot where they left him off. Once the engine was started, it passed only half a minute and they were already before the door, seeing how Aiba hopped towards the street with Sumiko right behind him. Sho quickly opened the doors and held them for Aiba who was still saying his farewells for today.
“Kiss…” Sumiko asked for and pursed her lips a bit, waiting for Aiba’s lips but the latter pecked her cheek again. She looked at him and then at Sho, observing him closely with suspicious expression on her face. “Okay, see you tomorrow… and don’t forget what I said, maybe I’m right.” She smiled brightly while looking at Sho again, a grin appearing on her lips, sending slight shiver through the latter’s back.
“I told you it’s not what you think but I will try to find out.” Aiba replied, waved and slowly hopped in the car, Sho bowing to her as she was already used to, knowing that Sho was Aiba’s butler and had to do his formalities now and not at school. After raising his head again, Sho observed her now for a moment but went inside the car too, closing them behind him while Aiba still waved at his girlfriend, the driver slowly taking off. “Uwah that was funny.” Aiba exclaimed and stretched his hands up in the air. “Ne~ we…”
“Can this wait until we get home?” Sho asked bluntly, disturbing Aiba’s predicted waves of talking. “I’m tired to listen now, you must forgive me…”
“You really don’t look fine…” Aiba suddenly turned serious, observed him, leaned his palm on Sho’s forehead but it was pushed aside, his eyebrows furrowing in frustration. Aiba slowly pulled his hand back to himself, his view turning a bit hurt, as if he was a pest that Sho didn’t allow to touch him. “What’s wrong? Why are you angry?”
“I’m not.” Sho replied shortly.
“You are… you are furrowing and breathing faster…” Aiba explained his thinking but Sho didn’t reply or look at him. “Ne~ mind telling me?” Sho still didn’t reply. “Sho-kun? Ne~…” Aiba tried to talk to him again but the latter didn’t have the will to talk in this moment or to explain himself. He turned to the side, watching the streetlights shining upon the dark streets, rushing by them while Aiba was silent too, looked at Sho a little bit longer but decided to drop it. If he doesn’t want to talk this out, why should I push him?! He pouted slightly and turned back to face forward, waiting to get home.
Once home Aiba stomped inside his room, followed by Sho who made sure the heir would take a proper bath before going to bed as it was already late. Aiba pouted again, still interested to know what has upset Sho this much but at the same time thought about the words that Sumiko said to him. I said she just imagines thing but was she right? He thought after taking the pajama from Sho’s hands, looking at him a few more moments. “Ne~ is it okay if we talk a little bit later, I need to ask you something…” Aiba tried his luck to talk to his friend.
“I will wait here.” Sho replied, Aiba nodded and went inside the bathroom, thinking how stupid his question later will be but he just needed to ask him and he did as he came out of the bathroom later. “Now tell me why were you upset before. I won’t let you leave until you tell me.”
Sho blinked at the heir a few times, thinking how to reply. “I am tired, it was a long day and…”
“Then why did you wait in the car? Why not going home as I said so?” Aiba started straightly with his dilemma.
“You… noticed?”
“Do I look that stupid?” Aiba joked, “I waited outside with Sumiko-chan, there was no one around, it was silent when all of a sudden engine started, lights turned on and our car came to pick me up. I am not blind, deaf or stupid yet.”
“So you noticed…”
“Well I said so, didn’t I?” Aiba pouted and continued, “Did you wait again to make sure I was safe?” Sho nodded. “I don’t understand why, Sumiko-chan is a nice girl, she wouldn’t hurt me or anything…”
“I know.”
“Well I didn’t intend to ask you this but since you have been acting strangely lately I have to say it. I didn’t actually come up with this, it’s what Sumiko-chan asked me and I was really surprised that she came up with this kind of thought…” Aiba trailed off.
“What did she say?” Sho asked interested.
“Sho-kun…” Aiba breathed out deeply and leaned in towards Sho, “Do you by any chance like me?” Sho flinched a little, his eyes blinking a few times, his heart almost stopping and he had to force himself to calm down, breathe and don’t let his face to turn pinkish or worse red. They were silent for a moment when Sho finally gathered his courage to utter:
“No… I don’t… at least not in a romantic way…”
Aiba started to laugh, “Thought so!” He laughed some more but didn’t understood why his heart suddenly slightly throbbed as if he was sad, disappointed by Sho’s answer.
“Well you are my master and a friend, that’s all to it.” Sho added, pain inside his chest unbearable. How I wish I could tell you the truth but… you are happy… I shouldn’t cause you pain if I selfishly tell you my feelings… Sho found himself torn between his responsibilities as Aiba’s butler and his feelings towards him as a man, it was tearing him apart but he knew he had to hold on.
“Then why are you so strange lately?” Aiba asked again, trying to overwhelm his strange feeling he had.
“My strange behavior counts as butler work right? Then I can’t tell you my reasons, what I wish for you is happiness and you have that. I’m sorry if my behavior has caused you worry or doubts but actually there is no special reason behind it.”
“You are telling me the truth?”
Sho came closer to the heir and patted his head, “I am, now take Mao-kun and go to bed, it’s late, you should rest, tomorrow begins new week and you should have the usual energy to be as hyper as always.” Sho forced a smile on his face and escorted Aiba to the bed, moved the covers away so that the heir could climb in. Aiba searched for his bear in his hands and snuggled it to his chest while Sho covered him up. “Sleep well.” Sho added, patting his head again and slowly moved away towards the doors, turned the light off and just when he wanted to leave Aiba muttered a slight:
“Sweet dreams Sho-chan.”
Sho’s heart made wild turns, his mind screaming to run there and hug the man that called him this sweetly but resisted his urge, held on the doorknob tightly. “You too.” He replied sadly before slowly closing the door. Outside he leaned on the door, feeling the safety to let his emotions out, silent tears wetting his face up as he slowly took refuge to his own room.
***
[A few days later…]
“What is it? What is so urgent that you needed to speak with me?” Sho asked surprised as he stood on the school’s rooftop, Rae standing against him. Just a few minutes ago she stopped him on the hallway as he was going to have his lunch at the cafeteria and as it looked like he will have to forget about it, his stomach releasing loud protests.
“You don’t look good…” She uttered worried.
“Well thank you for the worry. I’m hungry, that’s all.” Sho replied jokingly and noticed how she started rumbling through her bag, bringing out one roll and handed it to him.
“Here, eat this instead while talking to me.”
“This is yours, I won’t eat what is supposed to be yours.” Sho protested.
“I have another one, Jun-chan bough two thinking that I’m an elephant, which I’m not as you can see. I can’t eat both so please take this one.” She smiled and Sho finally took it, thanking her for the offer. “Still, you don’t look good.” She added.
“Are you joking? What’s now?” Sho smiled bitterly as taking the first bite on the roll.
“It’s okay to talk openly with me. I know.”
“What?” Sho raised his head.
“You love Aiba-kun am I right?” She blurted, Sho suddenly staring at her.
“Don’t be silly, Aiba-kun is my friend and you also know that I’m a butler to him. Where did those thoughts bloom from exactly?”
“I understand if you don’t want to admit it, I won’t even force you to but… there is something more important that I wanted to talk about.”
Sho looked at her a few moments and saw her honesty. After all this time he was still reluctant about this girl now not as much as not trusting her but more like don’t like her because she was the one that introduced Sumiko to them, causing Aiba to date her. He tried to be nice but these thought were always lingering inside his thoughts and he may have treated her a bit badly at sometimes. “Explain then.”
“First of all…” She started to hesitate, breathed hard and gained the courage to face Sho, “…please forgive me for bringing Sumiko into our lives…”
“What? Why all of a sudden…? Why are you apologizing for that? She is your friend and it’s okay to introduce your friends to us.” Sho replied, shaken by her words.
“Actually… we weren’t friends as I introduced her… she just noticed us suddenly talking to Aiba, she gained interest in him and then bugged me day in and day out to let her meet him.”
“She really must have liked Aiba-kun since then, I understand her in this way but from your point maybe she was a little bit too pushy and should have approached him on her own.” Sho explained calmly, trying to understand both sides.
“You don’t understand… even I didn’t… until yesterday…” Rae lowered her head.
“Yesterday?”
Rae nodded and looked up again, “She tricked all of us!” Sho gaped and stared at her, wanted to ask for more explanation when she already continued, “Sho-kun yesterday I saw her downtown… She was with a guy and they looked really close. Interested, I followed them… then I heard him ask her how is her relationship with that rich kid going. I knew he talked about Aiba and I saw her smile wickedly saying that it is going well, she protested as the relationship was proceeding so slow, apparently they didn’t even share a proper kiss yet. Then…” Rae stared at Sho, not knowing how to continue which made Sho impatient while at the same time he felt relieved that Aiba and Sumiko didn’t progress that fast as he thought they had.
“What happened then?” Sho asked impatiently.
“She said all she wants is to accidently get pregnant so that she can get Aiba’s money…” Rae peeked at Sho, afraid to know his reaction.
“What… did… you… say?” Sho asked slowly, word by word, his voice suddenly low.
“You damn heard me, I don’t want to repeat it!” Rae raised her voice and stared at him bravely. “We have to stop her! I don’t care about an ill person like her! Approaching someone who is this earnest and pure just because of money! She doesn’t have much money as I but I would never fall on her level, using dirty tricks to gain wealth and respect. I don’t want her to succeed! She looks innocent and nice but inside she is a rotten person, planning to bring down Aiba-kun!” She reached for Sho’s shoulders who was blankly standing there, his mind raging. “Sho-kun! I’m here to help… I will do anything… If you do care for Aiba-kun… if you sincerely wish him good, then don’t let him fall into her trap even deeper! You… ah!” She wanted to say something else but was startled at sudden, tight hold on her hand, grabbing her harshly. She looked at her right and saw Jun standing there, his look angry. “Chotto! Jun-chan what are you doing? Let go, it hurts me!”
“There is no way I’m letting you go!” Jun replied with the same harsh voice and tried to drag her away, holding her hand tightly as Sho rushed after them, tried to stop him.
“Jun-kun, please calm down, it’s not what you think…” Sho trailed off but Jun suddenly turned, slightly pushed Sho away, pulled Rae closer to himself while growling at Sho:
“Stay the hell away from my girl!”
“Jun! Come on, you know Sho-kun won’t try anything on me. Cut the crap with your DoS jealousy and think clearly. We discussed about Aiba-kun, can’t we?”
“And why the hell would you want to talk to him about Aiba-kun in private?” Jun continued with his interrogation.
“Because we need to break up Aiba-kun and Hamada-chan!” Rae opposed her boyfriend, maybe the only one who was able to in the whole world.
“What? Why?”
“Because she is deceiving him and besides, if you are that interested Jun, Sho-kun loves Aiba-chan!” She reasoned out as she tried to free herself from his grasp while Jun froze at his tracks, his view turning to Sho. “Does that calm you down?! Geez!” She finally pulled her hands from his grasp while Jun looked at Sho confused while Sho sighed deeply.
“Can you two just post it on the billboard already?” Sho mumbled while his cheeks colored in slight pink.
Jun suddenly started to smile, turned to his pouting girlfriend, “I’m sorry babe…” He sighed, “But you know how I am, don’t be upset okay. It’s not that I don’t trust you two but seeing you sneak to the roof made my blood boil.” He turned to Sho, “I also own you an apology.”
“Don’t Jun-kun, it’s okay, I’m already used to your outbursts.” Sho smiled.
“You are just stupid.” Rae commented.
“So, as far as I understood you two, we have a lot of work to do regarding Aiba-kun and Hamada-san.” Jun asked Sho while he let his hand slip on Rae’s shoulder, holding her possessively. Sho again remembered what Rae told him, his blood boiling while mind thinking wildly until a plan popped inside his mind.
“Leave this to me, I made a plan.” Sho replied as calmly as possible, confident to go along his plan.
“Dare to explain?” Rae asked interested and Sho slowly explained what his mind just planned.
“Are you sure Sho-kun? That would make Aiba-kun upset… I mean he could be angry at you and not about the fact that she deceived him…” Jun asked as Sho finished his explanation but only looked at him coldly.
“I don’t care actually… maybe I thought too much about his happiness. Maybe I should just make him realize that many things aren’t as he thinks they are.”
“I see that someone got a little bit of my DoS side.” Jun grinned. “Listen Sho-kun, it’s okay to be selfish at times. Maybe a little push or disappointment can lead to good results. Make Aiba realize that he should value those who are honest with him and those, who love him earnestly.”
“Oi, don’t teach him too much.” Rae lamented. “Still, it’s true that you loved him secretly, let yourself suffer because he was too blind to notice it. Maybe you should ignore him more and suddenly maybe he will realize that he started to get used to your presence and took you for granted.”
“You are right. I will do just that.” Sho replied determined. Hamada Sumiko you will fall, I swear I will bring you down! This is what happens to the ones who mess with Aiba family and at the same time with me. This will hurt you Aiba-kun but this is for your own good. I promised to act if something went wrong so you must forgive me to show her true face to you in that manner.
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A/N: So this is the new chapter for this week, somehow it's just a few minutes over Midnight here so haha it's Sunday already :)
So how was it? Sumiko is mean after all xDD That's why I wanted to let her leave the story as soon as possible :)) So Sho, Jun and Rae are planning now to seperate them and I can assure you Ohmiya will join too. What is in their plan? That stays a secret until next week ne :) Which reminds me, the title of the next chapter is: I want you *Q* omg omg what would it mean? hihi
Personal if someone is interested (those who don't know yet): My wisdom tooth extraction went well I was even surprised myself ^^ Was really scared going there but I was out in like 10 minutes haha I luckily had no major swelling, only in the beginning because of anestetic and I cooled that down with some ice packs and I luckily had no pain either, took some painkillers just in case of fever because I felt hot but had no fever which I thought was kinda strange but okay. I also survived liquid foods xD Am slowly bringing my normal food back in my meals but am still a bit careful ne~~
Short announcement: Yes acording to japan time it's a bit more than 2 days until Sho's birthday and as he is my ichiban I can't resist doing a oneshot again ne :) It's written for a while now and it will be posted on wednessday, a day before my first exam =.= So look forward to that ne and wish me luck on my first exam for this year xDD
Any comments/critique/thoughts are welcomed :))