Love from Venus: Arc 1, Part 1
Title: Love from Venus
Part: ARC 1, Part 1
Author: Aquarius Galuxy
Fandom: Power Stone
Pairing: Rouge/Ryoma
Genre: Romance/Erotica/Friendship/AU
Rating: varies from PG to NC-17
Word count: 4,624
Summary: Sales representative Ryoma Iwakura's life careens off course when a business deal brings him to a hostess bar, and into the company of hostess and strip club dancer Rouge. A spark of attraction ignites between them, one Ryoma tries to deny. Despite his reservations, he embarks on a scandalous friendship with Rouge that questions his plans for the future.
Author's Notes: Yay, first part up! This was actually written in the style of a series of drabbles joined up to form a story, but I'm not sure if that still applies. Prompts are from 10_prompts. Forgive me, and do tell if I've made any factual/grammatical errors! I've had a lot of fun writing this.
And do read the parts in order, they make more sense like that. =p
#1 (2: 5 Destination)
"So, who are we meeting with, again?" Edward Falcon yawned widely as he linked his fingers behind his neck, dangling a bulky briefcase from his thumb. Work had been slow at the office that afternoon, and like any ordinary office worker, he was glad that the day was almost done with. Falcon slanted his bright blue gaze towards his colleague and roommate expectantly.
"The representatives from Goldlight Industries. We have to close the deal by tonight -- Mr Akudo wants the details before the meeting tomorrow." Ryoma Iwakura flicked a glance at his wristwatch and hefted his own briefcase, observing their surroundings. He had never been to this part of town -- it wasn't a seedy place, but he didn't quite appreciate that their business meeting had to take place in a bar, of all places. "Though I don't know why those reps would want to arrange for our deal to be at such an... unprofessional location."
"You worry too much, Ryoma." Falcon tossed an easy grin at him and continued on his side of the pavement. "'Sides, it isn't often that business deals are done in bars, you know."
His companion frowned, his low raven ponytail brushing against his pressed suit. "We have them every couple of months! If that isn't too much, I don't know what is."
"Too much?" The blond looked at him in mock horror. "That's too little! You need to get laid, buddy."
"I do not!" Ryoma sputtered indignantly, a crimson tint creeping over his face. He quickened his footsteps. The sooner they got to their meeting, the better. Falcon knew he didn't like his sex life (or lack thereof) brought up. "It's none of your business, Falcon."
"As your good friend of five years, I personally find it horrifying that you're still a virgin." Annoyingly enough, his roommate had kept up with his faster pace. Falcon glanced askance at him and raised his eyebrows. "I mean, it isn't as if you haven't got the body for it. Hell, you have your kendo training for hours each week!"
"The public doesn't need to know that," Ryoma snapped. He glowered at his companion, ignoring the fact that there were too few pedestrians around to have heard the other man. "And as my good friend, you should know to avoid this subject."
"I know, I know. Just sayin'." Falcon swung his briefcase down to his side and started to whistle. "Which bar are we headed to?"
"The Royal Hostess Club."
His fellow Sales Representative couldn't be sulking. Could he? Falcon grinned smugly and shrugged. "If you say so."
---
#2 (1:2 Deviate)
"All right, girls, here's the scoop: Mr Simons didn't ask me out." Ayame replaced the tiny rectangular sponge in her makeup box and shut it with a click. Her inky eyes twinkled in the scant lighting of the hostess club's backroom as she surveyed her two friends through their common mirror, each tidying her appearance. "You lose the bet, Rouge. That means I get to decide on a penalty for you!"
The woman named Rouge frowned and pouted at the younger girl. She straightened her blue satin dress subconsciously, before rummaging through her cosmetics kit. "Damn. Your penalties are always so tricky, Ayame! What if it really can't be done?"
Ayame tucked a wayward strand of hair behind her ear and cast a mischievous smile at her mocha-toned, to-be victim. "We'll see about that. Your penalty would be to... seduce a woman tonight."
Next to them, Cassie laughed, pinning an elaborate clip into her cerulean tresses. "You sure about that, Ayame? Our Rouge doesn't dig girls."
"Yeah, how could you do that to me, Ayame?" Rouge's forehead creased, just half-visible beneath a thick lock of hair. She held up a glass perfume bottle and spritzed it over herself, letting her deep grey eye bore into the petite girl's. As expected, that did little to ease the meted punishment. "There are so few women frequenting the club that I just might have to seduce one of you." Rouge paused in consideration. "Maybe you, Ayame. Unless I forfeit the penalty."
Cassie arched an eyebrow at Ayame's crinkled nose, tucking a comb back into her travelling case. "Why not just make her go without her bra?" A smirk toyed on her lips. "It'd be pretty obvious with that dress she has on."
Rouge stared at them both in disbelief. "You know that's against the rules."
The disapproving expression on Ayame's face lifted. "That's actually possible, Cassie. You're brilliant!"
"Since when did rules bother you, Rouge?" Cassie grinned triumphantly. "The Madam wouldn't notice unless some bitch points it out, and I'm sure the men would love it."
"Since now." Rouge chuckled throatily and tilted her head to the side. "Fair enough. I'm all for it, girls. But it'll be your faults if I get groped."
"Woohoo!" Ayame cheered softly and held her hand out, eyes dancing. "Being groped has never bothered you, girlfriend. Bra please!"
---
#3 (3:5 Music)
Ryoma stepped cautiously across the threshold of the Royal Hostess Club, grateful for the shelter the place provided from the chilly autumn wind. Behind, Falcon followed him in with an exaggerated shiver. He met the bouncer's inquisitive gaze, gesturing to the dim inner lounge of the bar. "We're here to meet Mr Gunrock."
The bouncer nodded and turned to a plump woman who hurried by. She smiled genially at them while the man bent to mutter in her ear, her mascara-lined eyes lighting up. "Good evening, gentlemen. Come, come, Mr Gunrock and Mr Wang Tang await!"
Without expecting a response, the lady bustled off, her shimmery dress swishing around her ankles, tinted red from the glow permeating the interior of the club. Ryoma and Falcon exchanged a glance, before weaving through clusters of tables after her, looking for people who might be the business associates they were scheduled to meet.
The music in the club was made up of soothing pieces, instead of thumping numbers that Ryoma had grown to dread. Grudgingly, he admitted to himself that the location wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. He wouldn't have to strain his voice to be heard over deafening beats.
That all changed when the woman led them to a circular booth tucked into a corner of the place.
It would have been fine if there had just been the polished round table and black leather couch curved along the perimeter of the booth, seating two men who appeared to be their associates. It would even have been dandy if the plump lady stayed around for the duration of their business deal, or if the blue-haired hostess sandwiched between the men made small talk on occasion.
What reversed Ryoma's improving sentiments about the club were the two hostesses standing to the side, smiling warmly at him and Falcon as if they had business with them. Which they didn't. At least, Ryoma hoped they didn't.
There was something about the hostesses, though, that had him staring longer than he should. The more diminutive of the two was pale, with jet-black hair tied in a bun. Clad snugly in a leaf-patterned kimono from his homeland, she wasn't the one who had snared his attention.
One single eye was all it took to freeze his gaze and flip his stomach. The other hostess was darker-toned than he was, and almost his height. Half her face was veiled by a lock of hair; the rest of her chocolate mane was twined in an intricate braid that fell to her knees. Ryoma shook himself before he imagined his fingers through those locks. A bluish satin dress clung to her figure, revealing more than he needed to know, from the fullness of her breasts to the curve of her hips. She blinked at him; he coloured. Ryoma swallowed hard at the sight of two distinct peaks pressing into the fabric of her dress, tearing his gaze away before his body could react further.
Their business associates seemed not to have noticed his slight pause, each getting to his feet and extending his hand. Ryoma forced the hostesses out of his mind, stepping forward to accept their handshakes. "We're sorry to have kept you waiting. Ryoma Iwakura, Sales Representative of Sunland Steel Manufacturing."
"It's cool. Wang Tang and I are more familiar with this place, anyway. I'm Benjamin Gunrock, Sales Coordinator of Goldlight Industries." The first man to speak was an amiable one, his rounded physique belying his strength. He wore a bandanna on his otherwise bald head, the article seemingly out of place against his business suit. The corners of his small eyes crinkled. "Just call me Gunrock."
"Wang Tang, Sales Representative of Goldlight Industries." The other associate was just as unique as the first, with a neat black plait extending down the back of his distinctly oriental attire. He observed Ryoma and Falcon calmly with a bright gaze. "I go by my full name, if neither of you mind."
"Edward Falcon, Sales Representative of Sunland Steel." Falcon joined Ryoma and shook their hands in turn, before gesturing to the hostess between Gunrock and Wang Tang. "And who might this be?"
The blue-haired female stood then, bowing slightly to Ryoma and Falcon. Her black halter dress complemented the hue of her curls, its gold trimmings matching the headpiece in her hair. Ryoma noted the arm that Gunrock slipped around her waist. "My name is Cassie. Ayame, Rouge and I are very pleased to be your hostesses for today, gentlemen."
Ryoma had barely acknowledged that the single-eyed hostess was Rouge, when she swept forward and took his arm, leading him into the booth with a smile. He learnt something right then: If there was any woman's smile he could not resist, it was this one's. She triggered alarm bells in his head, warnings that he both wanted to heed and ignore.
It only occurred to him when he had seated himself between Rouge and Falcon, that Wang Tang did not have a hostess accompanying him. "I'm, uh, actually fine without a companion, Mr Gunrock," he blurted. "Since Mr Wang Tang seems to be short of one himself."
Gunrock guffawed; Falcon sent him a look that subtly meant, 'We'll be talking about this afterwards.' Wang Tang grinned at them in amusement. "Oh, no. It's all right. Gunrock and I have been here several times, and I've found that I'm not suited to a companion."
Ryoma was about to plead the same case when Gunrock interjected, "Consider it a treat, Mr Iwakura. It's a show of courtesy we offer to each of our associates."
"I appreciate it." Ryoma nodded tightly at him, holding his arm stiffly away from Rouge as inconspicuously as he could. He would do well to remember that they were solely here for work, and that he had no business with women from such places.
"I'm guessing that you're all here for a business deal?" Rouge began next to him, her tone sultry and low. He liked her voice, found himself relishing its mellowness. Her perfume brushed his nose, a heady mix of flowers and musk. He anticipated more of her scent.
Ryoma realised that he was a step too late in suppressing his curiosity about her. He cursed himself vehemently.
The brown-haired hostess looked over them all, a friendly smile playing across her lips. He avoided her gaze, ignored the gentle press of her fingertips into his forearm. When the other men gave varying responses of affirmation, he had little choice but to yield a nod.
"What sort of business deal is it?" Ayame joined in cheerily from the end of the couch, next to Falcon, as a wait staff came around to take orders for their drinks. "It must be important -- you guys are dressed so well!"
Gunrock grinned. "Thanks, Ayame. Wang Tang and I work in the metal production industry. We collect the ores our miners produce and purify them. Sometimes we even find trace amounts of gold."
"Sure we do," Wang Tang added animatedly. "But most of the time, we add other materials to the metals, according to our clients' specifications. And that's why we have Mr Iwakura and Mr Falcon here with us today, to adjust our supply levels. Isn't that right?" He shifted his gaze from the petite girl to his business partners.
"Definitely!" Falcon gave him a thumbs up. "And you can just call me Falcon."
"I go by Ryoma to most," the Sunland Steel representative tacked on, focusing his attention on Wang Tang instead of the female presence beside him. "Our company deals with all kinds of metal appliances and objects. At the moment, we've received an order for some old weapon designs, such as swords."
"Swords? That's a pretty cool product," Cassie chimed in, passing a plate of neatly rolled wet towels around for the men to freshen themselves. "How old is each of you, anyway?"
Perhaps the girls found it interesting that he was 23, and Falcon, 22. Ryoma didn't doubt that they'd already known such details about Gunrock and Wang Tang. Try as he might, though, the man couldn't help listening out for Rouge's age when Falcon asked the girls for theirs. She was a couple years older than he, but it wasn't obvious from the way she looked. Nevertheless, she was senior to him, and therefore most certainly not a suitable candidate for a partner. Not that he was considering it.
"What about your hobbies?" Rouge asked the entire table once more. The look she slid him at the end, however, told him in no hazy terms that she wanted his answer. It made him blush, because no woman had paid such attention to him. He hadn't let any of them close.
"I practice kendo," he volunteered without thinking, regretting that he did the moment his gaze met hers. Rouge had full, pink lips that he wouldn't mind sampling.
That last thought jerked him back to reality, to deals and associates and projects. Never mind that his interest had been piqued. After the rest had answered (Rouge liked to read fortunes as a hobby), he spoke first, before one of the hostesses could lead the conversation to more personal depths. "About our proposal..."
"Oh, yeah, the proposal." Gunrock smiled sheepishly at them, holding his newly-delivered drink up in a toast. Clinks of glass gave out to a momentary silence as they sipped their beverages.
Ryoma eased his arm from Rouge's grasp, lifting his briefcase to retrieve his documents. It was a relief to have the contact between them negated. There had been once when their fingers had touched -- she had taken the towel from him after he cleaned his face and hands with the proffered article, and he was sure that he had not imagined the quickening of his pulse when her fingertips met his. He didn't want to be attracted to her, but he was. Falcon would laugh if he knew.
Rouge was surprised. Seldom did a man reject her advances, and even more rarely did one try to avoid her despite revealing his inclination. Ryoma had intrigued her like few others did. She'd seen the way he stared at her the very first time, seen how he tried to contain the shred of hunger that flared in his eyes. Her body had responded, even more so when he denied his urges. There were no rings on his hands. Perhaps he had a girlfriend.
It wasn't just his bashfulness. His arm was strong beneath the layers of his suit, and he'd confirmed her gauge of his build with the slip that he practiced kendo.
The man was decidedly interested in her. He'd been staring longer than he should, and sneaking glances when he thought they went unnoticed. It fed the answering desire in her that she was tempted to stoke, that incited her to test his restraint. Rouge was enjoying her job far more than she usually did.
Then he had started the discussion on the proposal with the other men, and Rouge knew that she was lost to temptation.
Ryoma was a different person without his nerves. He and Falcon communicated efficiently with the club regulars, negotiating their prices and naming their conditions in a way that made Rouge suspect he'd forgotten her. But she didn't mind, because Ryoma, when focused, enticed her greatly, considering the shyness she had elicited from him earlier. She, Cassie and Ayame took the cue to blend into the background, exchanging glances with each other every so often.
There was an air of finality when the last document was signed and the papers put away. Ayame raised her glass and grinned. "Here's to the success of the deal!"
They clinked glasses again, relaxing more now that the formal discussion was over. Rouge slipped her arm back into Ryoma's, her lips quirking when he stiffened minutely.
"So are you guys married? Attached?" Cassie leaned forward, her gaze lingering on Gunrock for a moment before turning it on the rest of the men. Rouge perked up, as did Ayame. This was one of their favourite topics of conversation.
"You know you're the one for me, Cassie." Gunrock smiled and caressed her side in a gesture of familiarity. The cerulean-haired hostess returned his smile.
"Nope, neither." Wang Tang grinned. "Maybe in the distant future."
"I'm single too. Does any of you want a date?" Falcon winked at Ayame, who promptly giggled and covered her smile with her hand.
"I, uh, I'm neither as well." Rouge noted that Ryoma was looking at everyone but her. It made a delighted trill spark in her middle.
"You could ask me out, Ryoma," she teased, pulling his arm flush against her breasts. The man froze, then chanced a glance back at her, cheeks darkening. Perhaps there was a very good side to not wearing her bra. She wondered if he could feel the lack of material through his sleeves.
"N-no thanks, Rouge," Ryoma protested, trying to tug his arm from her futilely. The rest of the group laughed, even Falcon. She spied the offended glance he threw his partner.
Their conversation stretched on for another half hour, during which Ryoma tried to ease away from Rouge, albeit unsuccessfully. Alcohol had loosened the men up some, building a sort of camaraderie that she loved being a part of.
At length, Ryoma straightened and offered to pick up the bill, reaching for his briefcase. Rouge was hit by a pang then -- the bill reminded her that this comradeship was all paid for, and although it was fine on every other occasion, she had no wish to have Ryoma remember her as a bought woman. She liked him. Hell, she wanted to bed him and money wasn't going to be part of it.
"No worries. Our company will be footing the bill," Gunrock was saying as they rose to their feet. She held on to Ryoma's arm, tightening her grip when he thanked his associates for the evening. The four men exchanged handshakes. He turned to bid her farewell -- she could read it on his parted lips.
Without waiting, she leaned in and murmured in his ear, "I'm asking you out. Club Venus, Wednesday, 9pm. It's been a pleasure meeting you, Ryoma."
He blushed and stared at her, uncomprehending. Casting a light smile at him, Rouge released his arm and blew a kiss at the man, much to the amusement of the other members of the group. Gunrock chuckled; Falcon whistled. The girls smirked at her.
It was going to be a long night of teasing, but Rouge didn't care.
Ryoma overtook Falcon and hurried out of the hostess club.
---
#4 (9:1 Perception)
"What was that all about?" Falcon exclaimed, hurrying behind Ryoma to catch up with him. He rubbed his arms. The autumn wind was a cool shock once they had stepped out of the club.
"It was nothing." Ryoma strode briskly in the direction of his apartment, trying to figure out how to get home in a bid to quash his memories from the hostess bar.
"'Nothing'? How could you say that when you've been making sheep's eyes at her the whole night, Ryoma?" The blond cast a dirty look at his friend before gazing heavenwards. "Something went on back there, buddy. And it wasn't like you to do that."
Damn. Ryoma grit his teeth, keeping his eyes on the street ahead. How did Falcon know? Had he been that obvious? "You saw nothing."
He was lying, and Falcon knew it. Damn it all to hell. That woman, Rouge, had slipped past his defences and he was furious with himself for it. Nothing had prepared him for those smiles of hers, for her warmth. For those enticing points on her dress that had him hard within moments. Bloody hell.
"You can't fool me, Ryoma. You like that girl." His roommate stared askance at him. "Face it, you aren't meant to be celibate."
"I didn't say I was going to be," he muttered, avoiding Falcon's gaze.
"So why the hell are you fleeing from that club like she's asking you to marry her?" The man gave him an arch look. "I've told you, you need to get laid."
"I'm not looking for a girlfriend."
"But you like her. And you don't need a girlfriend to get laid."
"I'm not searching for either!" Ryoma ground out, narrowing his eyes. "Quit it, Falcon, or I'll lock you out of the apartment."
"Giving threats now, are we?" Falcon taunted. "And I'm chipping in for the rent, too. You can't just lock me out."
"Why couldn't you have stayed at your own place?" Ryoma frowned, tightening his grip on his briefcase. "I don't need relationship advice. Besides, you can't trust girls from places like that."
"My landlady kicked me out, remember?"
"You were being a nuisance to your neighbours."
"I was not! She just had something against me, okay?" Falcon dug his fingers into his hair, sighing exasperatedly. "Look, you felt something for that girl. I see these things better than you do."
"Says the guy who's been dumped countless times." Ryoma scowled at the pavement, lengthening his stride.
Falcon, unsurprisingly, matched his pace. "That doesn't mean I don't know you, buddy. If you didn't trust her and weren't interested, you wouldn't be leaving that place at top speed. You're just trying to deny that you're attracted to her."
Ryoma slowed down quite suddenly, so that Falcon shot ahead of him by a few steps. "There. Happy now? I'm not trying to run anymore."
It was Falcon's turn to glower. He turned back and fixed the raven-haired man with his gaze. "That doesn't change anything and you know it. Hell, you haven't ever lashed out at me like that!"
Ryoma stopped short in surprise, eyes widening. What had happened to him? As reluctant as he was to admit it, Falcon was right on all accounts. Guilt bit at him. "You're right, old buddy. Just... leave me alone for a while."
The blond raised an eyebrow. "Maybe, if you've got the right idea. What did she say to you before we left?"
Heat pricked his cheeks. Club Venus. He'd seen the place some blocks away from where he lived. But Falcon could guess again if he thought Ryoma was heading there. He resumed his walk home. "Nothing you need to know."
"She asked you out, didn't she?" A slow grin spread on Falcon's countenance, changing into a chuckle when Ryoma reddened. "Go for it, Ryoma. She's the one interested in you!"
"No." Ryoma looked away, cheering up by a fraction when they entered a neighbourhood he recognised. "Go away, Falcon."
"Not on your life, buddy." Falcon smirked and clapped him on the back, lifting his briefcase onto his shoulder. "You know I've only got your best interests in mind."
---
#5 (6: 4 Fools)
"Spit it out already, Rouge!" Cassie slipped her stilettos off and tucked them into her bag, pulling a pair of flats out to replace her footwear. Around them, the club's backroom was crammed to bursting as more hostesses filed in, girlish chatter filling the air. "You've been keeping us in suspense the whole night!"
"I bet she's got something going on with him." Ayame lifted her bag onto a chair and started to shrug out of her bulky outfit. "Gods, this place is so damn stuffy when it's closing time!"
"Isn't it always." Rouge grinned, tugging a sweater from her bag. The autumn chill was often worst at this time of the day. Thoughts of a certain raven-haired Sales Representative flitted into her mind. Pleased, she hummed quietly to herself. It was almost killing her to know if he would turn up at her other workplace. If he did, well. She had a faint idea what she'd be doing if he did make an appearance.
"Come on, Rouge!" Ayame gave her a playful nudge, folding her kimono up before slipping into jeans and a T-shirt. She frowned impatiently at the chocolate-haired hostess. "You've had that secret smile for hours!"
"Well, if you must know." Rouge dropped her tone, glancing around to check that she wasn't being eavesdropped upon. The dim room made it difficult for it to determine if she was, so she settled for pulling first Ayame, then Cassie, close, and muttering in their ears. "I invited him to Venus."
"You couldn't have!" Ayame gasped, her inky eyes resembling saucers. "You know that's--"
"Way to go, girl." Cassie smirked as she pulled on her own jacket. "Though you should know that all men are fools."
"Even Gunrock?" Rouge teased, slinging her bag onto her shoulder when it was apparent that the other two girls were ready to leave. Around, the other hostesses were comparing their clients for the day and gossiping about their colleagues.
"That one, I'm not too sure about. He's quite the nice guy." Cassie paused and giggled, staring off into space for a handful of seconds. "Even if he is a little naive."
Ayame waited till they'd waved goodbye to the bartender and runners and made their exit through the back door of the establishment. "What about Ryoma, Rouge? What're you going to do about him?"
Rouge tilted her head in thought as they walked along the empty streets. "Well, Ryoma definitely isn't a fool. I think he's too cautious to jump into something like that."
"And?" Cassie prompted with a grin. They stopped at the junction they always parted at, standing together beneath a traffic sign. The street lamps shone yellow circles of sodium light onto worn pavements.
"It really depends on whether he shows up there at all. I'm wondering if he even knows what sort of place it is -- the poor man looked like a deer in the headlights when he saw us." Rouge chuckled, smiling at the memory.
"He was looking at you, Rouge." Ayame grinned, pulling her sweater tight around herself when a breeze started up. "You owe me big time for the bra thing."
"They were all looking at me." Rouge laughed. "Men."
"Fools," Ayame and Cassie chorused, giggling.
"I really do want to get in his pants, but I'm sure you already knew that." Rouge raised her eyebrows and grinned. Ryoma definitely had the body for a good romp. Or two. Or three.
"Insatiable," Cassie muttered to Ayame, loudly enough so all of them heard.
"Hey!" Rouge smiled and swatted at her arm.
"You know it's true." Cassie dodged the hit, smirking widely.
"Oh, fine. Don't you have classes tomorrow?" Rouge reminded the pair, both of whom attended the local university.
"Yes we do, Mother." Cassie and Ayame drew away from her, waving. She waved fondly back at them, heading on her way home.
"Sweet dreams about Mr Iwakura, Rouge!" Ayame called after her.
"Teaser!" she yelled back, waving again. Her dreams would be positively sweet tonight.
------
Part: ARC 1, Part 1
Author: Aquarius Galuxy
Fandom: Power Stone
Pairing: Rouge/Ryoma
Genre: Romance/Erotica/Friendship/AU
Rating: varies from PG to NC-17
Word count: 4,624
Summary: Sales representative Ryoma Iwakura's life careens off course when a business deal brings him to a hostess bar, and into the company of hostess and strip club dancer Rouge. A spark of attraction ignites between them, one Ryoma tries to deny. Despite his reservations, he embarks on a scandalous friendship with Rouge that questions his plans for the future.
Author's Notes: Yay, first part up! This was actually written in the style of a series of drabbles joined up to form a story, but I'm not sure if that still applies. Prompts are from 10_prompts. Forgive me, and do tell if I've made any factual/grammatical errors! I've had a lot of fun writing this.
And do read the parts in order, they make more sense like that. =p
#1 (2: 5 Destination)
"So, who are we meeting with, again?" Edward Falcon yawned widely as he linked his fingers behind his neck, dangling a bulky briefcase from his thumb. Work had been slow at the office that afternoon, and like any ordinary office worker, he was glad that the day was almost done with. Falcon slanted his bright blue gaze towards his colleague and roommate expectantly.
"The representatives from Goldlight Industries. We have to close the deal by tonight -- Mr Akudo wants the details before the meeting tomorrow." Ryoma Iwakura flicked a glance at his wristwatch and hefted his own briefcase, observing their surroundings. He had never been to this part of town -- it wasn't a seedy place, but he didn't quite appreciate that their business meeting had to take place in a bar, of all places. "Though I don't know why those reps would want to arrange for our deal to be at such an... unprofessional location."
"You worry too much, Ryoma." Falcon tossed an easy grin at him and continued on his side of the pavement. "'Sides, it isn't often that business deals are done in bars, you know."
His companion frowned, his low raven ponytail brushing against his pressed suit. "We have them every couple of months! If that isn't too much, I don't know what is."
"Too much?" The blond looked at him in mock horror. "That's too little! You need to get laid, buddy."
"I do not!" Ryoma sputtered indignantly, a crimson tint creeping over his face. He quickened his footsteps. The sooner they got to their meeting, the better. Falcon knew he didn't like his sex life (or lack thereof) brought up. "It's none of your business, Falcon."
"As your good friend of five years, I personally find it horrifying that you're still a virgin." Annoyingly enough, his roommate had kept up with his faster pace. Falcon glanced askance at him and raised his eyebrows. "I mean, it isn't as if you haven't got the body for it. Hell, you have your kendo training for hours each week!"
"The public doesn't need to know that," Ryoma snapped. He glowered at his companion, ignoring the fact that there were too few pedestrians around to have heard the other man. "And as my good friend, you should know to avoid this subject."
"I know, I know. Just sayin'." Falcon swung his briefcase down to his side and started to whistle. "Which bar are we headed to?"
"The Royal Hostess Club."
His fellow Sales Representative couldn't be sulking. Could he? Falcon grinned smugly and shrugged. "If you say so."
---
#2 (1:2 Deviate)
"All right, girls, here's the scoop: Mr Simons didn't ask me out." Ayame replaced the tiny rectangular sponge in her makeup box and shut it with a click. Her inky eyes twinkled in the scant lighting of the hostess club's backroom as she surveyed her two friends through their common mirror, each tidying her appearance. "You lose the bet, Rouge. That means I get to decide on a penalty for you!"
The woman named Rouge frowned and pouted at the younger girl. She straightened her blue satin dress subconsciously, before rummaging through her cosmetics kit. "Damn. Your penalties are always so tricky, Ayame! What if it really can't be done?"
Ayame tucked a wayward strand of hair behind her ear and cast a mischievous smile at her mocha-toned, to-be victim. "We'll see about that. Your penalty would be to... seduce a woman tonight."
Next to them, Cassie laughed, pinning an elaborate clip into her cerulean tresses. "You sure about that, Ayame? Our Rouge doesn't dig girls."
"Yeah, how could you do that to me, Ayame?" Rouge's forehead creased, just half-visible beneath a thick lock of hair. She held up a glass perfume bottle and spritzed it over herself, letting her deep grey eye bore into the petite girl's. As expected, that did little to ease the meted punishment. "There are so few women frequenting the club that I just might have to seduce one of you." Rouge paused in consideration. "Maybe you, Ayame. Unless I forfeit the penalty."
Cassie arched an eyebrow at Ayame's crinkled nose, tucking a comb back into her travelling case. "Why not just make her go without her bra?" A smirk toyed on her lips. "It'd be pretty obvious with that dress she has on."
Rouge stared at them both in disbelief. "You know that's against the rules."
The disapproving expression on Ayame's face lifted. "That's actually possible, Cassie. You're brilliant!"
"Since when did rules bother you, Rouge?" Cassie grinned triumphantly. "The Madam wouldn't notice unless some bitch points it out, and I'm sure the men would love it."
"Since now." Rouge chuckled throatily and tilted her head to the side. "Fair enough. I'm all for it, girls. But it'll be your faults if I get groped."
"Woohoo!" Ayame cheered softly and held her hand out, eyes dancing. "Being groped has never bothered you, girlfriend. Bra please!"
---
#3 (3:5 Music)
Ryoma stepped cautiously across the threshold of the Royal Hostess Club, grateful for the shelter the place provided from the chilly autumn wind. Behind, Falcon followed him in with an exaggerated shiver. He met the bouncer's inquisitive gaze, gesturing to the dim inner lounge of the bar. "We're here to meet Mr Gunrock."
The bouncer nodded and turned to a plump woman who hurried by. She smiled genially at them while the man bent to mutter in her ear, her mascara-lined eyes lighting up. "Good evening, gentlemen. Come, come, Mr Gunrock and Mr Wang Tang await!"
Without expecting a response, the lady bustled off, her shimmery dress swishing around her ankles, tinted red from the glow permeating the interior of the club. Ryoma and Falcon exchanged a glance, before weaving through clusters of tables after her, looking for people who might be the business associates they were scheduled to meet.
The music in the club was made up of soothing pieces, instead of thumping numbers that Ryoma had grown to dread. Grudgingly, he admitted to himself that the location wasn't as bad as he thought it would be. He wouldn't have to strain his voice to be heard over deafening beats.
That all changed when the woman led them to a circular booth tucked into a corner of the place.
It would have been fine if there had just been the polished round table and black leather couch curved along the perimeter of the booth, seating two men who appeared to be their associates. It would even have been dandy if the plump lady stayed around for the duration of their business deal, or if the blue-haired hostess sandwiched between the men made small talk on occasion.
What reversed Ryoma's improving sentiments about the club were the two hostesses standing to the side, smiling warmly at him and Falcon as if they had business with them. Which they didn't. At least, Ryoma hoped they didn't.
There was something about the hostesses, though, that had him staring longer than he should. The more diminutive of the two was pale, with jet-black hair tied in a bun. Clad snugly in a leaf-patterned kimono from his homeland, she wasn't the one who had snared his attention.
One single eye was all it took to freeze his gaze and flip his stomach. The other hostess was darker-toned than he was, and almost his height. Half her face was veiled by a lock of hair; the rest of her chocolate mane was twined in an intricate braid that fell to her knees. Ryoma shook himself before he imagined his fingers through those locks. A bluish satin dress clung to her figure, revealing more than he needed to know, from the fullness of her breasts to the curve of her hips. She blinked at him; he coloured. Ryoma swallowed hard at the sight of two distinct peaks pressing into the fabric of her dress, tearing his gaze away before his body could react further.
Their business associates seemed not to have noticed his slight pause, each getting to his feet and extending his hand. Ryoma forced the hostesses out of his mind, stepping forward to accept their handshakes. "We're sorry to have kept you waiting. Ryoma Iwakura, Sales Representative of Sunland Steel Manufacturing."
"It's cool. Wang Tang and I are more familiar with this place, anyway. I'm Benjamin Gunrock, Sales Coordinator of Goldlight Industries." The first man to speak was an amiable one, his rounded physique belying his strength. He wore a bandanna on his otherwise bald head, the article seemingly out of place against his business suit. The corners of his small eyes crinkled. "Just call me Gunrock."
"Wang Tang, Sales Representative of Goldlight Industries." The other associate was just as unique as the first, with a neat black plait extending down the back of his distinctly oriental attire. He observed Ryoma and Falcon calmly with a bright gaze. "I go by my full name, if neither of you mind."
"Edward Falcon, Sales Representative of Sunland Steel." Falcon joined Ryoma and shook their hands in turn, before gesturing to the hostess between Gunrock and Wang Tang. "And who might this be?"
The blue-haired female stood then, bowing slightly to Ryoma and Falcon. Her black halter dress complemented the hue of her curls, its gold trimmings matching the headpiece in her hair. Ryoma noted the arm that Gunrock slipped around her waist. "My name is Cassie. Ayame, Rouge and I are very pleased to be your hostesses for today, gentlemen."
Ryoma had barely acknowledged that the single-eyed hostess was Rouge, when she swept forward and took his arm, leading him into the booth with a smile. He learnt something right then: If there was any woman's smile he could not resist, it was this one's. She triggered alarm bells in his head, warnings that he both wanted to heed and ignore.
It only occurred to him when he had seated himself between Rouge and Falcon, that Wang Tang did not have a hostess accompanying him. "I'm, uh, actually fine without a companion, Mr Gunrock," he blurted. "Since Mr Wang Tang seems to be short of one himself."
Gunrock guffawed; Falcon sent him a look that subtly meant, 'We'll be talking about this afterwards.' Wang Tang grinned at them in amusement. "Oh, no. It's all right. Gunrock and I have been here several times, and I've found that I'm not suited to a companion."
Ryoma was about to plead the same case when Gunrock interjected, "Consider it a treat, Mr Iwakura. It's a show of courtesy we offer to each of our associates."
"I appreciate it." Ryoma nodded tightly at him, holding his arm stiffly away from Rouge as inconspicuously as he could. He would do well to remember that they were solely here for work, and that he had no business with women from such places.
"I'm guessing that you're all here for a business deal?" Rouge began next to him, her tone sultry and low. He liked her voice, found himself relishing its mellowness. Her perfume brushed his nose, a heady mix of flowers and musk. He anticipated more of her scent.
Ryoma realised that he was a step too late in suppressing his curiosity about her. He cursed himself vehemently.
The brown-haired hostess looked over them all, a friendly smile playing across her lips. He avoided her gaze, ignored the gentle press of her fingertips into his forearm. When the other men gave varying responses of affirmation, he had little choice but to yield a nod.
"What sort of business deal is it?" Ayame joined in cheerily from the end of the couch, next to Falcon, as a wait staff came around to take orders for their drinks. "It must be important -- you guys are dressed so well!"
Gunrock grinned. "Thanks, Ayame. Wang Tang and I work in the metal production industry. We collect the ores our miners produce and purify them. Sometimes we even find trace amounts of gold."
"Sure we do," Wang Tang added animatedly. "But most of the time, we add other materials to the metals, according to our clients' specifications. And that's why we have Mr Iwakura and Mr Falcon here with us today, to adjust our supply levels. Isn't that right?" He shifted his gaze from the petite girl to his business partners.
"Definitely!" Falcon gave him a thumbs up. "And you can just call me Falcon."
"I go by Ryoma to most," the Sunland Steel representative tacked on, focusing his attention on Wang Tang instead of the female presence beside him. "Our company deals with all kinds of metal appliances and objects. At the moment, we've received an order for some old weapon designs, such as swords."
"Swords? That's a pretty cool product," Cassie chimed in, passing a plate of neatly rolled wet towels around for the men to freshen themselves. "How old is each of you, anyway?"
Perhaps the girls found it interesting that he was 23, and Falcon, 22. Ryoma didn't doubt that they'd already known such details about Gunrock and Wang Tang. Try as he might, though, the man couldn't help listening out for Rouge's age when Falcon asked the girls for theirs. She was a couple years older than he, but it wasn't obvious from the way she looked. Nevertheless, she was senior to him, and therefore most certainly not a suitable candidate for a partner. Not that he was considering it.
"What about your hobbies?" Rouge asked the entire table once more. The look she slid him at the end, however, told him in no hazy terms that she wanted his answer. It made him blush, because no woman had paid such attention to him. He hadn't let any of them close.
"I practice kendo," he volunteered without thinking, regretting that he did the moment his gaze met hers. Rouge had full, pink lips that he wouldn't mind sampling.
That last thought jerked him back to reality, to deals and associates and projects. Never mind that his interest had been piqued. After the rest had answered (Rouge liked to read fortunes as a hobby), he spoke first, before one of the hostesses could lead the conversation to more personal depths. "About our proposal..."
"Oh, yeah, the proposal." Gunrock smiled sheepishly at them, holding his newly-delivered drink up in a toast. Clinks of glass gave out to a momentary silence as they sipped their beverages.
Ryoma eased his arm from Rouge's grasp, lifting his briefcase to retrieve his documents. It was a relief to have the contact between them negated. There had been once when their fingers had touched -- she had taken the towel from him after he cleaned his face and hands with the proffered article, and he was sure that he had not imagined the quickening of his pulse when her fingertips met his. He didn't want to be attracted to her, but he was. Falcon would laugh if he knew.
Rouge was surprised. Seldom did a man reject her advances, and even more rarely did one try to avoid her despite revealing his inclination. Ryoma had intrigued her like few others did. She'd seen the way he stared at her the very first time, seen how he tried to contain the shred of hunger that flared in his eyes. Her body had responded, even more so when he denied his urges. There were no rings on his hands. Perhaps he had a girlfriend.
It wasn't just his bashfulness. His arm was strong beneath the layers of his suit, and he'd confirmed her gauge of his build with the slip that he practiced kendo.
The man was decidedly interested in her. He'd been staring longer than he should, and sneaking glances when he thought they went unnoticed. It fed the answering desire in her that she was tempted to stoke, that incited her to test his restraint. Rouge was enjoying her job far more than she usually did.
Then he had started the discussion on the proposal with the other men, and Rouge knew that she was lost to temptation.
Ryoma was a different person without his nerves. He and Falcon communicated efficiently with the club regulars, negotiating their prices and naming their conditions in a way that made Rouge suspect he'd forgotten her. But she didn't mind, because Ryoma, when focused, enticed her greatly, considering the shyness she had elicited from him earlier. She, Cassie and Ayame took the cue to blend into the background, exchanging glances with each other every so often.
There was an air of finality when the last document was signed and the papers put away. Ayame raised her glass and grinned. "Here's to the success of the deal!"
They clinked glasses again, relaxing more now that the formal discussion was over. Rouge slipped her arm back into Ryoma's, her lips quirking when he stiffened minutely.
"So are you guys married? Attached?" Cassie leaned forward, her gaze lingering on Gunrock for a moment before turning it on the rest of the men. Rouge perked up, as did Ayame. This was one of their favourite topics of conversation.
"You know you're the one for me, Cassie." Gunrock smiled and caressed her side in a gesture of familiarity. The cerulean-haired hostess returned his smile.
"Nope, neither." Wang Tang grinned. "Maybe in the distant future."
"I'm single too. Does any of you want a date?" Falcon winked at Ayame, who promptly giggled and covered her smile with her hand.
"I, uh, I'm neither as well." Rouge noted that Ryoma was looking at everyone but her. It made a delighted trill spark in her middle.
"You could ask me out, Ryoma," she teased, pulling his arm flush against her breasts. The man froze, then chanced a glance back at her, cheeks darkening. Perhaps there was a very good side to not wearing her bra. She wondered if he could feel the lack of material through his sleeves.
"N-no thanks, Rouge," Ryoma protested, trying to tug his arm from her futilely. The rest of the group laughed, even Falcon. She spied the offended glance he threw his partner.
Their conversation stretched on for another half hour, during which Ryoma tried to ease away from Rouge, albeit unsuccessfully. Alcohol had loosened the men up some, building a sort of camaraderie that she loved being a part of.
At length, Ryoma straightened and offered to pick up the bill, reaching for his briefcase. Rouge was hit by a pang then -- the bill reminded her that this comradeship was all paid for, and although it was fine on every other occasion, she had no wish to have Ryoma remember her as a bought woman. She liked him. Hell, she wanted to bed him and money wasn't going to be part of it.
"No worries. Our company will be footing the bill," Gunrock was saying as they rose to their feet. She held on to Ryoma's arm, tightening her grip when he thanked his associates for the evening. The four men exchanged handshakes. He turned to bid her farewell -- she could read it on his parted lips.
Without waiting, she leaned in and murmured in his ear, "I'm asking you out. Club Venus, Wednesday, 9pm. It's been a pleasure meeting you, Ryoma."
He blushed and stared at her, uncomprehending. Casting a light smile at him, Rouge released his arm and blew a kiss at the man, much to the amusement of the other members of the group. Gunrock chuckled; Falcon whistled. The girls smirked at her.
It was going to be a long night of teasing, but Rouge didn't care.
Ryoma overtook Falcon and hurried out of the hostess club.
---
#4 (9:1 Perception)
"What was that all about?" Falcon exclaimed, hurrying behind Ryoma to catch up with him. He rubbed his arms. The autumn wind was a cool shock once they had stepped out of the club.
"It was nothing." Ryoma strode briskly in the direction of his apartment, trying to figure out how to get home in a bid to quash his memories from the hostess bar.
"'Nothing'? How could you say that when you've been making sheep's eyes at her the whole night, Ryoma?" The blond cast a dirty look at his friend before gazing heavenwards. "Something went on back there, buddy. And it wasn't like you to do that."
Damn. Ryoma grit his teeth, keeping his eyes on the street ahead. How did Falcon know? Had he been that obvious? "You saw nothing."
He was lying, and Falcon knew it. Damn it all to hell. That woman, Rouge, had slipped past his defences and he was furious with himself for it. Nothing had prepared him for those smiles of hers, for her warmth. For those enticing points on her dress that had him hard within moments. Bloody hell.
"You can't fool me, Ryoma. You like that girl." His roommate stared askance at him. "Face it, you aren't meant to be celibate."
"I didn't say I was going to be," he muttered, avoiding Falcon's gaze.
"So why the hell are you fleeing from that club like she's asking you to marry her?" The man gave him an arch look. "I've told you, you need to get laid."
"I'm not looking for a girlfriend."
"But you like her. And you don't need a girlfriend to get laid."
"I'm not searching for either!" Ryoma ground out, narrowing his eyes. "Quit it, Falcon, or I'll lock you out of the apartment."
"Giving threats now, are we?" Falcon taunted. "And I'm chipping in for the rent, too. You can't just lock me out."
"Why couldn't you have stayed at your own place?" Ryoma frowned, tightening his grip on his briefcase. "I don't need relationship advice. Besides, you can't trust girls from places like that."
"My landlady kicked me out, remember?"
"You were being a nuisance to your neighbours."
"I was not! She just had something against me, okay?" Falcon dug his fingers into his hair, sighing exasperatedly. "Look, you felt something for that girl. I see these things better than you do."
"Says the guy who's been dumped countless times." Ryoma scowled at the pavement, lengthening his stride.
Falcon, unsurprisingly, matched his pace. "That doesn't mean I don't know you, buddy. If you didn't trust her and weren't interested, you wouldn't be leaving that place at top speed. You're just trying to deny that you're attracted to her."
Ryoma slowed down quite suddenly, so that Falcon shot ahead of him by a few steps. "There. Happy now? I'm not trying to run anymore."
It was Falcon's turn to glower. He turned back and fixed the raven-haired man with his gaze. "That doesn't change anything and you know it. Hell, you haven't ever lashed out at me like that!"
Ryoma stopped short in surprise, eyes widening. What had happened to him? As reluctant as he was to admit it, Falcon was right on all accounts. Guilt bit at him. "You're right, old buddy. Just... leave me alone for a while."
The blond raised an eyebrow. "Maybe, if you've got the right idea. What did she say to you before we left?"
Heat pricked his cheeks. Club Venus. He'd seen the place some blocks away from where he lived. But Falcon could guess again if he thought Ryoma was heading there. He resumed his walk home. "Nothing you need to know."
"She asked you out, didn't she?" A slow grin spread on Falcon's countenance, changing into a chuckle when Ryoma reddened. "Go for it, Ryoma. She's the one interested in you!"
"No." Ryoma looked away, cheering up by a fraction when they entered a neighbourhood he recognised. "Go away, Falcon."
"Not on your life, buddy." Falcon smirked and clapped him on the back, lifting his briefcase onto his shoulder. "You know I've only got your best interests in mind."
---
#5 (6: 4 Fools)
"Spit it out already, Rouge!" Cassie slipped her stilettos off and tucked them into her bag, pulling a pair of flats out to replace her footwear. Around them, the club's backroom was crammed to bursting as more hostesses filed in, girlish chatter filling the air. "You've been keeping us in suspense the whole night!"
"I bet she's got something going on with him." Ayame lifted her bag onto a chair and started to shrug out of her bulky outfit. "Gods, this place is so damn stuffy when it's closing time!"
"Isn't it always." Rouge grinned, tugging a sweater from her bag. The autumn chill was often worst at this time of the day. Thoughts of a certain raven-haired Sales Representative flitted into her mind. Pleased, she hummed quietly to herself. It was almost killing her to know if he would turn up at her other workplace. If he did, well. She had a faint idea what she'd be doing if he did make an appearance.
"Come on, Rouge!" Ayame gave her a playful nudge, folding her kimono up before slipping into jeans and a T-shirt. She frowned impatiently at the chocolate-haired hostess. "You've had that secret smile for hours!"
"Well, if you must know." Rouge dropped her tone, glancing around to check that she wasn't being eavesdropped upon. The dim room made it difficult for it to determine if she was, so she settled for pulling first Ayame, then Cassie, close, and muttering in their ears. "I invited him to Venus."
"You couldn't have!" Ayame gasped, her inky eyes resembling saucers. "You know that's--"
"Way to go, girl." Cassie smirked as she pulled on her own jacket. "Though you should know that all men are fools."
"Even Gunrock?" Rouge teased, slinging her bag onto her shoulder when it was apparent that the other two girls were ready to leave. Around, the other hostesses were comparing their clients for the day and gossiping about their colleagues.
"That one, I'm not too sure about. He's quite the nice guy." Cassie paused and giggled, staring off into space for a handful of seconds. "Even if he is a little naive."
Ayame waited till they'd waved goodbye to the bartender and runners and made their exit through the back door of the establishment. "What about Ryoma, Rouge? What're you going to do about him?"
Rouge tilted her head in thought as they walked along the empty streets. "Well, Ryoma definitely isn't a fool. I think he's too cautious to jump into something like that."
"And?" Cassie prompted with a grin. They stopped at the junction they always parted at, standing together beneath a traffic sign. The street lamps shone yellow circles of sodium light onto worn pavements.
"It really depends on whether he shows up there at all. I'm wondering if he even knows what sort of place it is -- the poor man looked like a deer in the headlights when he saw us." Rouge chuckled, smiling at the memory.
"He was looking at you, Rouge." Ayame grinned, pulling her sweater tight around herself when a breeze started up. "You owe me big time for the bra thing."
"They were all looking at me." Rouge laughed. "Men."
"Fools," Ayame and Cassie chorused, giggling.
"I really do want to get in his pants, but I'm sure you already knew that." Rouge raised her eyebrows and grinned. Ryoma definitely had the body for a good romp. Or two. Or three.
"Insatiable," Cassie muttered to Ayame, loudly enough so all of them heard.
"Hey!" Rouge smiled and swatted at her arm.
"You know it's true." Cassie dodged the hit, smirking widely.
"Oh, fine. Don't you have classes tomorrow?" Rouge reminded the pair, both of whom attended the local university.
"Yes we do, Mother." Cassie and Ayame drew away from her, waving. She waved fondly back at them, heading on her way home.
"Sweet dreams about Mr Iwakura, Rouge!" Ayame called after her.
"Teaser!" she yelled back, waving again. Her dreams would be positively sweet tonight.
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