Petals of a Cherry Blossom - Chapter 4A - KazukixManabu
Title: Petals of a Cherry Blossom
Chapter: 4a/??
Author: atmosphere_zero
Beta-Reader: misfitmisfit (Thank you so much for beta-reading it! <3)
Genre: Angst, Comedy, Drama, Romance, School life, AU
Rating: R
Warnings: Abuse, Strong Language, Some Violence, Suggested Sexual Scene
Band(s): Alice Nine, Ayabie, Sadie, ScReW, the GazettE
Pairing(s)/Character(s): KazukixManabu, MizukixManabu, KazukixUruha, ToraxByou, KenzoxRui
Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with the bands, people, artists, and musicians mentioned in the story. The story is a work of pure fiction and is in no way meant to represent or reflect the real bands, people, artists, and musicians mentioned in any way. Any similarities are pure coincidences. I do not make anything off of the story as this is simply meant for pure entertainment. No harm or disrespect in any way is intended.
Summary: Behind the fading color of the cherry blossom petals, the truth unveils itself.
Comments: I apologize for the length of this chapter m(_ _)m Too much things had to happen in this chapter before it could end ;A; As always, this chapter is broken into two parts due to LJ's text limit so please read both parts（＾_＾）More in the author's note at the end of the next part. Enjoy!
Previous Chapters: Chapter 1a/ Chapter 1b || Chapter 2a/ Chapter 2b || Chapter 3a/ Chapter 3b || Chapter 4a/ Chapter 4b || Chapter 5a/ Chapter 5b
Tora sat on the couch staring at some of the student files, but he mainly gazed at Manabu’s student file. Damn… When Manabu was only eleven, he was taken into the hospital for severe injuries and bruises on his body. Of course that occurred after their father was put in jail for stealing alcohol from a convenience store. Goddamn.
The police even took photos of Manabu’s bruises as evidence for Manabu’s case file, but somehow their father was never charged with child abuse since everyone in the city believed his father was a good man.
He brought Manabu to school and picked him up everyday single day. He was a part of the Parent Teacher Association in which he attended school field trips, was a part of the school board, and even donated money to the school. It was noted that all the neighbors believed his father was a decent man who was unfortunate to marry such a promiscuous woman.
Reading these notes outraged Tora. Their father was nothing short of being a bastard and scum who didn’t fucking care about his children. He hurt their mother, he hurt Manabu, and he hurt him as well. Tora flipped the paper upward to see more about Manabu.
There were newspaper clippings and school records to “prove” Manabu was a delinquent in school who somehow made good grades. Many believed he was going through a rough period since his mother wasn’t always home. This nonsense baffled Tora. People actually believed Manabu got into fights??
Shit. No wonder Manabu was skeptical of Tora wanting to help him. No one ever gave a damn. Even to the obvious signs of abuse. Well, he wasn’t going to let that happen. He wouldn’t let Manabu down. He would show Manabu that there was someone else in the world that cared about him.
“Hmm…” Tora heard Byou moan in his sleep.
Byou was curled up on the couch, resting his head on Tora’s lap. He had refused to sleep in bed until Tora was ready, but as always, Byou wasn’t cut out for such late-night work and fell asleep before he did. Tora gently caressed Byou’s hair and kissed Byou’s forehead. He wished he could spend more time with Byou like this.
Before he was assigned bigger missions, Tora could actually come home every night and spent time with Byou. They would go out for walks or go to the ice cream shop down the block. Now, they hardly did any of those couply activities. If he could have it all back, he would. But he had to choose whether he wanted to spend more time with Byou or to find and save his little brother, Manabu… How could he choose between the two people he loved the most?
Tora peered up at the clock and noticed the time. Shit. It was midnight. It was almost time to meet Kenzo. Damn.
Tora gently picked up Byou and carried him to bed. He carefully laid Byou upon the bed and pulled the blanket over him hoping it would keep him warm and comfortable. Tora stroked Byou’s soft, brown hair while watching his cute sleeping face. Byou must have been dreaming of good thoughts since he wore a smile on his face. Tora inwardly smiled at the sight.
Tora shook his head breaking his sight away from Byou. Damn. He had to hurry. He couldn’t be late.
As he left the room, he took a peek back at the sleeping Byou. He hesitated to leave wondering if he should leave Byou alone. What if something happened to him and he wasn’t here?
“Dammit, Tora. Stop being fucking indecisive.” Tora thought to himself.
He hoped Byou would forgive him if he woke up and didn’t see him there. He prayed he would come back in one piece and nothing would happen to Byou when he was gone. He didn’t know if he could forgive himself for hurting a second person whom he held dear to him.
Tora heard the rumbling of thunder and saw the flash of blinding lightning in the faraway, ominous sky. Shit. Tora hastily snatched an umbrella before leaving the house.
The wind was fiercely howling and the leaves violently twirled in the wind. He had to hurry the fuck up before he got caught in some torrential rainstorm. After trekking through random streets and alleyways, Tora ended up on the streets of several small bars crowded with people and obnoxious music. In fact, there were too many people lingering around in the streets for no particular reason. Why was this street bustling with hookers and gangsters?
A tap on the back alerted Tora that Kenzo was right behind him. He had sensed two pairs of eyes behind him halfway through the trip. It must have been Kenzo watching him the entire time. Tora was used to such things. What he was more afraid of was if Kenzo only made his presence known to him after only after way… Could be possible that Kenzo watched him from the moment he left his house??
Shit. Was this Kenzo’s way of intimidating him? Normally, he wouldn’t care, but the fact Kenzo brought Byou into this matter… was a whole different story.
“It’s nice to see you, too.” Tora sardonically greeted him.
“Let’s go inside.” Kenzo skipped the greeting and cut to the chase. “Separately.”
Tora cursed in his mind. Right. Because if anyone saw Kenzo doing business with some stranger openly, there might be some unwelcomed chatter among the mafia world. Tora waited for several minutes before entering the same bar Kenzo disappeared into.
Tora’s eyes searched around this noisy place. There was a huge dance floor crowded with millions of people. Dammit. Finding Kenzo would be trying to find a needle in a haystack.
He immediately approached the bar to avoid the dance floor. He shifted his eyes upward noticing a second floor. Hmm, what were the chances Kenzo was upstairs?
Tora quietly waltzed onto the second floor where it was much quieter. He noticed private rooms filing the side of the hallway. Kenzo must have been in one of these rooms. But which one? Damn Kenzo.
As Tora strolled down the hallway, a few people in glittering dresses and sleek suits glided past him. God, good thing Tora wore his suit from his workday or else he might have stuck out like an oddball. As more and more of these high class people passed by, he started to slowly recognize some of these people from reading numerous of news and books before coming here.
Damn. He knew who they were. These people worked for the government. Shit. How corrupt. If he wanted to take down the big mafia boss, would he have to get pass through the entire government system?
When Tora sighed never seeing an end, he thought all hope was lost until he saw an opened door. He cautiously approached the door and immediately surveyed the room when he entered.
“Sit down.” Kenzo’s voice traveled to his ears. “I’ve ordered some rum already.”
Tora closed the door behind him finding Kenzo near the viewing window. He took a seat down across from Kenzo with only the coffee table giving them space.
Tora peeked down the viewing window seeing all of those people dancing on the floor rocking out to the techno music. Even though they were far away from the chaotic dance floor, the music beats thumped against the walls and underneath his feet. Every night must have been packed in here. He shifted his eyes back at Kenzo who held a cigarette between his index and middle finger while holding on a cup of alcohol in his other hand.
“Recognize your enemies?” Kenzo asked him in a casual tone.
“Hmm.” Tora indirectly responded.
Was this tonight’s purpose?
“What exactly are we here for?” Tora cautiously inquired.
Kenzo took a sip of his rum before quietly placing it down on the coffee table. “If you want to take on the mafia boss, are you prepared to deal with… everyone in this city?”
Everyone. Kenzo was being literal.
“You mean I got to duke everyone myself while you sit back and watch me?” Tora raised one of his eyebrows.
“I might. Depending on your answer.” Kenzo purposely squished his cigarette in the ash tray and dropped it in there.
Depending on his answer? What the fuck did he mean?
“My answer to what?”
“Are you prepared to fight this whole city?” Kenzo repeated his question.
Tora thought about all of those people in hallway who wore such luxurious and expensive outfits. Damn. It was the whole city. Could he honestly do it? He thought about Byou and Manabu. Yes, he had to do it. This was the city that fucked up his partner’s and his brother’s lives.
“No matter what it takes.” Tora responded after a long moment of silence.
Kenzo gazed at Tora’s gleaming eyes. There was something particular about his chocolate, brown eyes. They brimmed with determination and courage. Hmm, Kenzo was impressed with this new cop guy. Maybe Tora was the right guy. But he couldn’t be so sure yet.
“Okay, Tora. Let’s see and find out if you’re the right person for the job.” Kenzo sat upright in the cushioned chair.
Right guy? Tora stayed silent pondering the meaning of Kenzo’s words. What exactly did Kenzo mean? Hmm, the thought boggled his mind. Ooh! Perhaps Kenzo was going to test him to see if he was the ‘right guy’. Dammit. He knew it wouldn’t be easy having Kenzo as an ally. Or whatever he was considered.
“What’s the test?” Tora cut to the chase.
Kenzo chuckled wearing a straight face. “Now, we’re talking.”
XOXOXOXO
Kazuki strolled back home thinking about his wonderful moment with Manabu at the bookstore. He walked Manabu back to his dorm, but figured he wouldn’t go inside his room in order to avoid chaos from Mizuki. Damn. He wanted to spend a night with Manabu… Ah, well. It was coming soon. This weekend!
He arrived at his huge mansion and casually entered inside of the house. He heard some chatter upstairs. It was odd for his father to be up this late at home still. He wondered what was going on. Hmm… Should he investigate? Or should he not? He voted for the latter half. He was tired and didn’t want to deal with his father.
As he was about to enter the living room to relax, he heard some quiet footsteps. He peered over his shoulder and spotted Rui’s cat, Maru. Damn. Why was she always coming after him? He gave her to Rui for a good reason…
“Gah, come on. Stop following me.” Kazuki tried to shoo her away, but she sat on her butt slowly wagging her tail.
When he entered the living room and sat down on the couch, she followed suit and sat down across from him. He stared at her. She stared at him. This silent staring contest lasted for a minute or two before Kazuki gave up. He playfully narrowed his eyes. She narrowed her eyes.
“Okay, fine. Whatever. Just don’t be loud.” Kazuki gave in and pulled out a book to read.
As he sat in peace reading his book, she snuggled up next to him resting her head on his leg. He moved his book out of the way and watched her rest against him. He slightly smiled putting his book down on the couch. He rubbed her fur with his fingernails.
“Guchi guchi!” Kazuki made sound effects as he tickled her stomach.
She abruptly moved around trying to avoid Kazuki’s fingers, but he immediately grabbed under her forelegs and brought her up to his face.
“Meow.” she let out as her body hung in the air.
He rubbed his nose against hers as she scrunched her face. Unexpectedly, she licked his cheek catching him off guard as a part of her silly revenge.
“Ah!” Kazuki closed his eyes laughing at Maru’s actions. “You’re such a devious girl!”
“Meow!” she struggled tapping her paws against Kazuki’s hands.
He propped her against his shoulder and held her bottom in his hands. He rubbed the palm of his hand against her soft, fuzzy fur. She nuzzled against Kazuki’s neck with a pleasing purring sound. He slightly chuckled at how she was easily pleased.
From the moment, he saw her in that cage, lonely and alone, he knew she was the right cat. She was everything like him. Everyone had abandoned her and none of the other pets ever bothered to play with her. He didn’t know why. She was a nice kitten. She might have been socially awkward, but so what? She was strong, courageous, fearless, smart, and stubborn. All of the qualities he had.
“Meow. Meow.” she tapped her paw against Kazuki’s ear.
“Ah, okay. Okay, Princess. I’m not a toy.” Kazuki teasingly said.
Even if she couldn’t speak the same language as him, she understood his loneliness. He wished he could openly protect Rui, but… he knew because of his conflicting emotions, he could never do it to the best of his abilities. That was why he chose her in that shelter home. Perhaps she would protect Rui better than he could.
“Kazuki.” his father’s voice caught him off guard.
Kazuki released his hand from Maru causing her to hop down to the ground and disappear. Goddammit. It was his stupid father. What the hell did his father want with him? He despised dealing with his father.
“What?” Kazuki defiantly answered.
“Don’t use that tone with me,” his father sternly ordered him.
He could never have a real conversation with his father. There was never that caring, father-son moment. No, it was pure business. It was how his father saw him. A product that needed precious care until the moment was right.
“Yes, father.” Kazuki could only sigh at his father’s irksome request.
His father sat down on the big chair across from Kazuki. There was a good amount of distance in between them. It was as if the space represented the gap in their relationship.
“You’ve arrived to the age where it’s time to get marry.” his father started the conversation.
Aw, shit. Marriage? Kazuki didn’t want to deal with this sort of shit. In fact, it was the last thing on his mind. “Marriage?”
“Yes, to continue this family’s legacy. Therefore, you will need to marry someone.” his father made it sound more like an order instead of an informative session or a one-on-one talk between a father and son.
“You mean I have to marry in order to produce-”
“Babies, if you must be so blunt.” his father, clearly galled, finished his sentence for him.
“Meow.” Maru purred as she tiptoed near his foot and sat down right next to it.
Kazuki was silent to his father’s command. He had to marry some girl? Goddamn it. Girls weren’t as… Uh… Well... He didn’t really like girls. But his dad must have known that since he was never forced to go on suffocating dates with girls unlike most other guys with his same status.
“I have chosen a girl for you already,” his father informed him of the worst news possible.
Damn his father. Already? He didn’t even get a chance to choose the girl he was going to have to suffer with? Dammit. He gritted his teeth hard. He fucking hated the limitations his father placed on him. His father already didn’t care about him. Why did his father have to fucking place restraints on him?
“I’ve already met her and she’s beautiful. So you should be glad,” his father continued on. “I don’t particular care if you don’t like her, Son. Just produce me some grandchildren.”
“I don’t particularly care with who or what you do in your free time.”
It was as if his father was saying that he could fuck with anyone he could only that he had to produce children with this random girl. He knew this from the beginning, but this conversation showed just how much father cared about him. If he disappeared or died off the face of the Earth, his father would probably not even notice and might even be happy or relieved.
“Understood?” His father was about to lean in toward Kazuki to emphasize his point.
Suddenly, Maru hopped up onto the sofa and hissed at his father. Kazuki’s heart skipped a beat. His father blinked fiercely at Maru before shifting up his stare toward Kazuki.
Oh, shit. No one ever dared to show his father disagreement or disobeyed him for any reason. And he doubted Maru was exempted from that rule… since he originally bought her for Rui.
“Didn’t you buy this cat for Rui?” his father asked him in a seemingly casual manner.
Why was he bringing Rui into this conversation?
“Yes, I did because Rui likes cat.” Kazuki carefully answered him.
“Hmm… Did you influence him to like… cats?” his father slowly asked him.
Kazuki was perplexed by his father’s words. What was he trying to hint at? If anything… it was Kazuki who found out Rui’s passion for cats. Was he trying to fucking accuse him for Rui’s passion?
“Just like you influenced him to get those piercings on his left ear? Hmm?” his father stood up, looming over Kazuki.
What? Rui had gotten piercings? When? Fuck! When? When? When? Goddammit it all! Why didn’t fucking Kenzo tell him?!
“I’m sure you wouldn’t know, though. Since I know Kenzo always hangs out with him,” his father revealed.
Kazuki froze in his spot. Shit. How did his father find out? He knew his father was shrewd and sly, but… even though Kazuki made such a foolproof plan. Fuck this. Kenzo must have screwed him over. It was the only way.
His father swiftly grabbed Kazuki’s shirt collar forcing him to stand on his two feet as Maru leaped down to the floor disappearing from the scene. Without a seconds notice, he punched Kauzki smack dab in his eye. Kazuki was sent flying to the floor colliding against the wooden stand where a vase of flower stood.
“Ah!” Kazuki shouted as the impact reverberated throughout his body.
The flower vase tipped over, crashing onto Kazuki’s head, and shattered into millions of pieces. Shit! His head fucking hurt!
Kazuki heavily breathed trying to regain his sense of awareness. Shit. He couldn’t even properly see. He was having a hard time opening his right eye. Fuck. It really hurt. Damn his father for punching his eye… Goddamn. He fucking hated when his father did this to him. How would he explain his purple eye tomorrow at school?
“Stand up.” his father commanded him.
Kazuki grudgingly stood up knowing what was going to come next, but he had to do so. Disobeying his father… would mean absolute hell… worse than what he was experiencing now.
He recalled back in his younger days when his father punished him for doing bad acts. While most kids might be grounded or smacked with their parents’ hand once, he would be punched and beaten several times. It was because he had to learn his lesson according to his father’s philosophy.
When the beating was done, no one cared about him. Even the servants turned a blind eye to his obvious wounds and bleeding. Yes… they would all ignore him like nothing ever happened.
His father proceeded to land a quick, but deathly blow to his cheek, which caused him to lose his footing and fall onto the floor again. Kazuki landed with one hand on the floor in order to prevent his face from being slammed into the ground. Goddammit. His cheek really fucking hurt. He cupped his cheek with his other hand. He felt blood dribble down his mouth. Shit. It would probably be swollen later.
Dammit. He tasted the disgusting metallic blood. It was fucking gross.
“Normally, I would ask you why, but I’m going to let it slide this time since I’m in a forgiving mood,” his father creepily said to him. “When I come back, I expect you to do as I say. You understand?”
At first, Kazuki stayed silent refusing to answer his stupid father. No, dammit. He didn’t want to listen to his father. That would mean he lost and had to completely submit. He never wanted to give in to anyone, especially not his father! The bastard who didn’t even give a shit about him!
His father methodically crushed the shattered shreds of the flower vase as he ominously walked towards him. He paused at Kazuki’s side and kicked him in the stomach, which sent Kazuki rolling over the floor and eventually slamming into the wall.
“Agh!” Kazuki loudly gasped for air.
Goddamn. His father nearly kicked the wind out of him. Shit. He could barely breathe… let alone stand up. God… his stomach was in too much pain for him… to move… Damn. Not to mention that his back was aching like some old foggie…
He deeply breathed in and out. He turned over and gripped onto his stomach. Shit. There was too much pain. Shit. Shit. He felt himself curling up towards the wall like a fucking baby who couldn’t handle the pressure. Shit. He was supposed to be better than this. All of his years of training and this was his limit? Fuck.
“Do you understand?” his father again stood before him expecting a response.
Before Kazuki had a chance to respond, his father stepped on Kazuki’s waist with his foot and implanted his foot on it with so much force Kazuki could hardly breathe.
“Huh!” Kazuki started having double vision. Shit! The fucking pain!
Shit! If his father didn’t let go, he was going to die! He gasped raggedly for precious, sweet oxygen!
To stop the excruciating, immense pain, he unwillingly surrendered to his father’s request. “Yes, yes! I understand! I understand!”
His father released his foot and irritatingly sighed. His father was silent for a moment concocting in his head what to say next. He randomly kicked Kazuki again as if to enforce his authority.
Kazuki jerked at the unexpected blow. A sharp pain shot up his spine. He was already beaten, down on the ground, and completely humiliated by his father. What more did the bastard want? If anything, why couldn’t his father leave him alone…?
“Good. As long as you understand. You’ll be seeing your fiancé next week.” his father suavely fixed his shirt as though he came out of a scuffle.
Fiancé? Dammit… He watched his father exit the room without even caring about his condition. Fuck. How would he explain to Manabu about the blatant injuries on his face? He wished he could get rid of it. Fucking shit… Why was he cursed with such a brutal father? Would it have been better if he were never born… since he seemed to be an eyesore to his father?
“Meow.” Maru came over toward Kazuki wearing a solemn, melancholy expression.
She stood on her four legs, but bent down as she licked his face. He didn’t realize why she licked his face until the tears cascaded down his cheeks. He knew what it was, but he didn’t want to admit it. He didn’t want to admit that he was weak. Crying was a sign of weakness. Dammit. He couldn’t admit he was weak. He couldn’t.
“Gosh, Maru-san, you’re making me look bad. I’m supposed to be the man.” Kazuki jokingly wheezed, even though his face was drenched in tears.
She attempted to catch the tears by wiping her fur on his cheeks, but they kept on streaming down his face. He might have turned away from her assistance… but right now… she was the only living thing who gave a shit about his well being.
XOXOXOXO
Manabu couldn’t get much sleep so he decided to sit in his bed with his art pad and pencil. His art teacher approached him to join the school’s art competition. Since this was a famous school, many rich people including CEOs and wealthy businessmen came here to view the art pieces the students created. He was surprised to hear these rich people bought an art piece or two after the competition and scoring was over. Winning this competition was a foot in the door for Manabu since it would help him get his name out there. Apparently, he heard from his art teacher that, if he won recognition at this school, he could go on to compete in bigger competitions. Perhaps even compete with international artists.
But what could he draw? Hmm… The theme of this year’s art competition was beauty. He flipped through his art pad gazing at his old artworks. He had gotten inspiration from his surroundings especially from nature and the random people he saw going about their daily lives. It was how he released his sorrows when he was younger. Or else he might have never survived that hellhole.
When he flipped to a new art page, he gazed at the white blank sheet. What should he draw for the competition? Suddenly, an image of Kazuki appeared in his mind. He blinked his eyes, shook his head, and lightly slapped himself. What the hell was he thinking? He couldn’t…
“Manabuuu!” Mizuki came out of the shower interrupting his thoughts.
Manabu quickly shut his art pad and hid it underneath his blanket. “What?”
“When did you get up?” Mizuki inquired.
“When you were in the shower.” Manabu answered.
“Oh! You must be thirsty!” Mizuki exclaimed. “Let me get something for you to drink!”
Manabu peered at the time and noticed that it was 8:30am. Kazuki was late. Not that he was ready, but Kazuki was usually on time. The fact Mizuki was up this early as well was off kilter. Everything seemed to be off today. He wondered where Kazuki was.
“I’ll you get something sweet to drink. I’ll be back.” Mizuki grabbed some change from his pouch and headed for the door.
“Wait! Mizuki, I don’t like-” Manabu was about to tell him when he suddenly heard a huge splat sound after the creaking of the door opening.
Manabu was puzzled and immediately got out from his bed to find Mizuki… covered in feathers and honey?
“What the hell happened to you?” Manabu was shocked.
“Manabu, isn’t this the time your normally leave for class?” Mizuki surprisingly asked.
“Yeah, but I was tired today.” Manabu didn’t understand where Mizuki was going with the question.
Oh, no… Mizuki sensed that someone was targeting Manabu. But who? Someone who knew Manabu’s schedule very well. Kazuki? But that wouldn’t make any sense. Something wasn’t right. Agh! He had to protect Manabu from whoever it was!
XOXOXOXO
Kazuki woke up that morning with a super dry face. Goddamn. He had been… crying tears last night even long after his father punished him. He had a hard time sleeping last thinking about his lonely past. Damn. He noticed the time. Dammit. It was past the time he would normally pick up Manabu. Hopefully, Manabu would forgive him this once.
He rubbed his eyes as he surveyed his surroundings. His room was huge. It could probably make up the size of six classrooms. Yet he was all by himself in this big room. He had everything anyone could imagine. A huge, comfortable bed with curtains tied up to the bed posts. A huge study desk with space for a few bookshelves, a giant flat screen television hanging on his wall, a spacious living room setting set up right in front of the television, a balcony right outside of his room, his own luxurious bathroom that had a bath and shower… It could be called Heaven to most people. But to him… It was the place that reminded of great sorrow and sadness.
The fact was… he didn’t have any special person to live with in this room. He didn’t want to live alone, but he didn’t have a choice. He was born to this accursed life.
He headed to the bathroom and stood in front of the sink. He faced the mirror immediately spotting his purple eye and bruised up cheek. Dammit. His cheek wasn’t as swollen as last night, but the wound was obvious. He tenderly touched over it, but even that caused too much pain. He soaked his eye in hot water last night, but the bruise was still visible. It would take a few days before the bruises went away.
He silently dressed up for school and headed outside to the courtyard where his ride would be waiting for him.
“Kazuki-chan!” Uruha’s voice unexpectedly greeted him.
Kazuki looked up at Uruha who wasn’t expecting to see Kazuki in such a beaten up state. Uruha’s heart skipped a beat. He was suddenly worried about Kazuki.
“Kazuki-chan… what happened to you?” Uruha asked in a concerned manner.
“Nothing much. I was just out on a bust.” Kazuki quickly fabricated some story.
“But you never get hurt on a bust. Besides, I thought you were suspended.” Uruha was puzzled by his story.
“I know. That’s what I get for breaking the rules.” Kazuki casually waved it off.
Uruha realized that it must have been Kazuki’s father. He felt helpless when he had to cheer Kazuki up. It was difficult since Kazuki never admitted the truth. Ever since they were children, whenever Kazuki had any wounds or scratches, Uruha knew it was because of his father only because he had heard rumors of his father being ruthless to everyone and anyone… including his own son.
Uruha didn’t know if it was because of his man pride, but Uruha had a hard time breaking down that shell Kazuki fortified around himself. Even though he had been friends with Kazuki for so long, he still had a hard time understanding who Kazuki really was.
“Umm… Sorry for asking.” Uruha guilty apologized not knowing how else to make Kazuki feel better.
“What are you apologizing for? Let’s get going.” Kazuki acted like his normal self.
Uruha wondered why Kazuki always hid his true feelings. Didn’t he know that he was here to support him? It pained Uruha’s heart that Kazuki closed off everyone including him from his sorrowful world.
XOXOXOXO
After the feather and honey incident, Mizuki decided to stick by Manabu. Someone was out to get him. Even if Manabu didn’t realize, Mizuki did! He would do anything to protect Manabu!
Strange incidents kept happening during the school day. Mizuki got rinsed by water buckets when he opened a door, tangled with some fake snakes when he opened Manabu’s textbooks, and all sorts of crazy stupid pranks. Manabu didn’t understand why Mizuki was getting hurt. Most of the time, it was usually in his path, but Mizuki managed to step in the way and suffer the prank instead… Who was out to get him?
When Manabu had arrived to art class, he found Kazuki, with his back turned, facing the canvas. Manabu thought he could play a trick on Kazuki for once. For all of the times, Kazuki made him suffer with endless jokes and teases, maybe Manabu could pull the joke on him.
Right when Manabu was about to put his schoolbag down on the stool, Kazuki spoke up, “Hey, Manabu.”
Kazuki slightly turned around to face Manabu. “Hmm, why don’t you switch out that chair? It looks too short for you.”
Manabu gazed at it. “You think?”
“Yeah! Trust me. I’m usually right.” Kazuki reassured him.
Manabu switched chairs stools with the once next to him. Hopefully, the two students sitting next to them wouldn’t notice the seat change. As Manabu took a seat, Kazuki turned his face away from his. Manabu wondered if he had something to hide.
“Hey, Kazuki. Umm… are we still going to eat lunch together?” Manabu asked.
“Of course. What made you think differently?” Kazuki answered, but still had his face turned away.
Kazuki was definitely trying to hide something! How could he get Kazuki to turn around…?
Kazuki couldn’t let Manabu see his face. He looked like a wreck. Manabu would ask him a million questions and he would never see the end of it.
Suddenly, Kazuki heard a loud crash behind him. What happened? Did Manabu get hurt? Oh, no! He instinctively turned around only to find Manabu still sitting on the stool with two paint trays clashed together. Kazuki realized what had just transpired. Goddammit! How could he fall for Manabu’s trick?!
“I knew it.” Manabu put the paint trays down on the table. “You were hiding something.”
“What? What are you talking about?” Kazuki acted as if he didn’t understand what Manabu was talking about.
“Kazuki, don’t play stupid!” Manabu crossed his arms.
He saw Kazuki’s purple right eye and right cheek covered in bruises. Someone had hurt him. But who could ever hurt Kazuki? From what Manabu remembered, Kazuki was almost too strong to let any opponent touch him. It had to be someone even stronger than him…
Kazuki playfully frowned trying to play off the bruises. He knew Manabu would question him to no end. Dammit.
“Where did you get those from?” Manabu asked him.
“Um… I got it while I was fighting. You know how I’m always fighting those guys.” Kazuki prepared his fists in front of him, pretending he was going to fight, with a serious face.
Manabu glared at him knowing that Kazuki was lying straight out of his teeth. “But I’ve seen you fight. You didn’t get hurt.”
“Well, things happen. And that was just one fight you saw. I get hurt in other fights.” Kazuki continued to fabricate the story.
It pained Manabu to see Kazuki wearing such a smile on his face even though the bruises were painful. He didn’t understand why Kazuki made up some story. Why couldn’t he tell the truth? Did he think Manabu didn’t understand or was too innocent?
“Some secrets are not worth keeping a secret.” Manabu said to him before he turned around to start the art assignment.
If Kazuki wasn’t going to tell him, then he couldn’t force him.
The words reverberated in his mind. Damn. If it were someone else, he might have not cared what they said. But the fact was… Manabu wanted to know. The very person his heart beat for. Yet he couldn’t tell him straight up. How would Manabu react if Kazuki let him know the truth?
Mizuki watched the scene from afar. Kazuki had seriously gotten hurt and Manabu was getting dragged into it. Argh… He would look like a douche if he interrupted only because Kazuki was hurt. Hmm… He didn’t like the scene at all.
“Ahhh!”
An unexpected crackle and crash slammed against the ground while a soft human body collided with the floor. Everyone in the classroom directed their attention to the source of the sound and saw a stool broken and a student lying on the floor injured.
“What happened?” the art teacher immediately came over.
“I don’t know, Sensei. I sat on the stool and it suddenly broke. I think it was broken or something.” the student moaned due to the immense pain.
Manabu watched in horror. That was originally his stool. What the hell…? Was someone really out to get him? But who had such vendetta against him? Suddenly, Manabu became afraid for his life.
Kazuki suspected the chair was broken beforehand. He noticed it when he came in that something was wrong with it. After hearing all of the chatter around school, Kazuki discovered that Mizuki had been falling into stupid silly, pranks, but no one knew who pulled them. Some of the students muttered that if Mizuki hadn’t been in the way, Manabu might have gotten caught in the sick joke.
Someone clearly didn’t like Manabu’s presence. Kazuki knew the one person who would create such harsh pranks.
Kazuki shifted his eyes toward Manabu, who was in such a frightened state. Kazuki reached over placing his hand Manabu’s shoulder and rubbed it. “Don’t worry about it.”
Manabu blinked his eyes still in a daze. “What?”
“Don’t be so scared. I’m here to protect you.” Kazuki reassured him with confidence.
For the first time in his life, Manabu’s spirit was lifted. Someone actually cared for his existence? Someone in this world minded if he was truly gone.
Part B
Chapter: 4a/??
Author: atmosphere_zero
Beta-Reader: misfitmisfit (Thank you so much for beta-reading it! <3)
Genre: Angst, Comedy, Drama, Romance, School life, AU
Rating: R
Warnings: Abuse, Strong Language, Some Violence, Suggested Sexual Scene
Band(s): Alice Nine, Ayabie, Sadie, ScReW, the GazettE
Pairing(s)/Character(s): KazukixManabu, MizukixManabu, KazukixUruha, ToraxByou, KenzoxRui
Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with the bands, people, artists, and musicians mentioned in the story. The story is a work of pure fiction and is in no way meant to represent or reflect the real bands, people, artists, and musicians mentioned in any way. Any similarities are pure coincidences. I do not make anything off of the story as this is simply meant for pure entertainment. No harm or disrespect in any way is intended.
Summary: Behind the fading color of the cherry blossom petals, the truth unveils itself.
Comments: I apologize for the length of this chapter m(_ _)m Too much things had to happen in this chapter before it could end ;A; As always, this chapter is broken into two parts due to LJ's text limit so please read both parts（＾_＾）More in the author's note at the end of the next part. Enjoy!
Previous Chapters: Chapter 1a/ Chapter 1b || Chapter 2a/ Chapter 2b || Chapter 3a/ Chapter 3b || Chapter 4a/ Chapter 4b || Chapter 5a/ Chapter 5b
Tora sat on the couch staring at some of the student files, but he mainly gazed at Manabu’s student file. Damn… When Manabu was only eleven, he was taken into the hospital for severe injuries and bruises on his body. Of course that occurred after their father was put in jail for stealing alcohol from a convenience store. Goddamn.
The police even took photos of Manabu’s bruises as evidence for Manabu’s case file, but somehow their father was never charged with child abuse since everyone in the city believed his father was a good man.
He brought Manabu to school and picked him up everyday single day. He was a part of the Parent Teacher Association in which he attended school field trips, was a part of the school board, and even donated money to the school. It was noted that all the neighbors believed his father was a decent man who was unfortunate to marry such a promiscuous woman.
Reading these notes outraged Tora. Their father was nothing short of being a bastard and scum who didn’t fucking care about his children. He hurt their mother, he hurt Manabu, and he hurt him as well. Tora flipped the paper upward to see more about Manabu.
There were newspaper clippings and school records to “prove” Manabu was a delinquent in school who somehow made good grades. Many believed he was going through a rough period since his mother wasn’t always home. This nonsense baffled Tora. People actually believed Manabu got into fights??
Shit. No wonder Manabu was skeptical of Tora wanting to help him. No one ever gave a damn. Even to the obvious signs of abuse. Well, he wasn’t going to let that happen. He wouldn’t let Manabu down. He would show Manabu that there was someone else in the world that cared about him.
“Hmm…” Tora heard Byou moan in his sleep.
Byou was curled up on the couch, resting his head on Tora’s lap. He had refused to sleep in bed until Tora was ready, but as always, Byou wasn’t cut out for such late-night work and fell asleep before he did. Tora gently caressed Byou’s hair and kissed Byou’s forehead. He wished he could spend more time with Byou like this.
Before he was assigned bigger missions, Tora could actually come home every night and spent time with Byou. They would go out for walks or go to the ice cream shop down the block. Now, they hardly did any of those couply activities. If he could have it all back, he would. But he had to choose whether he wanted to spend more time with Byou or to find and save his little brother, Manabu… How could he choose between the two people he loved the most?
Tora peered up at the clock and noticed the time. Shit. It was midnight. It was almost time to meet Kenzo. Damn.
Tora gently picked up Byou and carried him to bed. He carefully laid Byou upon the bed and pulled the blanket over him hoping it would keep him warm and comfortable. Tora stroked Byou’s soft, brown hair while watching his cute sleeping face. Byou must have been dreaming of good thoughts since he wore a smile on his face. Tora inwardly smiled at the sight.
Tora shook his head breaking his sight away from Byou. Damn. He had to hurry. He couldn’t be late.
As he left the room, he took a peek back at the sleeping Byou. He hesitated to leave wondering if he should leave Byou alone. What if something happened to him and he wasn’t here?
“Dammit, Tora. Stop being fucking indecisive.” Tora thought to himself.
He hoped Byou would forgive him if he woke up and didn’t see him there. He prayed he would come back in one piece and nothing would happen to Byou when he was gone. He didn’t know if he could forgive himself for hurting a second person whom he held dear to him.
Tora heard the rumbling of thunder and saw the flash of blinding lightning in the faraway, ominous sky. Shit. Tora hastily snatched an umbrella before leaving the house.
The wind was fiercely howling and the leaves violently twirled in the wind. He had to hurry the fuck up before he got caught in some torrential rainstorm. After trekking through random streets and alleyways, Tora ended up on the streets of several small bars crowded with people and obnoxious music. In fact, there were too many people lingering around in the streets for no particular reason. Why was this street bustling with hookers and gangsters?
A tap on the back alerted Tora that Kenzo was right behind him. He had sensed two pairs of eyes behind him halfway through the trip. It must have been Kenzo watching him the entire time. Tora was used to such things. What he was more afraid of was if Kenzo only made his presence known to him after only after way… Could be possible that Kenzo watched him from the moment he left his house??
Shit. Was this Kenzo’s way of intimidating him? Normally, he wouldn’t care, but the fact Kenzo brought Byou into this matter… was a whole different story.
“It’s nice to see you, too.” Tora sardonically greeted him.
“Let’s go inside.” Kenzo skipped the greeting and cut to the chase. “Separately.”
Tora cursed in his mind. Right. Because if anyone saw Kenzo doing business with some stranger openly, there might be some unwelcomed chatter among the mafia world. Tora waited for several minutes before entering the same bar Kenzo disappeared into.
Tora’s eyes searched around this noisy place. There was a huge dance floor crowded with millions of people. Dammit. Finding Kenzo would be trying to find a needle in a haystack.
He immediately approached the bar to avoid the dance floor. He shifted his eyes upward noticing a second floor. Hmm, what were the chances Kenzo was upstairs?
Tora quietly waltzed onto the second floor where it was much quieter. He noticed private rooms filing the side of the hallway. Kenzo must have been in one of these rooms. But which one? Damn Kenzo.
As Tora strolled down the hallway, a few people in glittering dresses and sleek suits glided past him. God, good thing Tora wore his suit from his workday or else he might have stuck out like an oddball. As more and more of these high class people passed by, he started to slowly recognize some of these people from reading numerous of news and books before coming here.
Damn. He knew who they were. These people worked for the government. Shit. How corrupt. If he wanted to take down the big mafia boss, would he have to get pass through the entire government system?
When Tora sighed never seeing an end, he thought all hope was lost until he saw an opened door. He cautiously approached the door and immediately surveyed the room when he entered.
“Sit down.” Kenzo’s voice traveled to his ears. “I’ve ordered some rum already.”
Tora closed the door behind him finding Kenzo near the viewing window. He took a seat down across from Kenzo with only the coffee table giving them space.
Tora peeked down the viewing window seeing all of those people dancing on the floor rocking out to the techno music. Even though they were far away from the chaotic dance floor, the music beats thumped against the walls and underneath his feet. Every night must have been packed in here. He shifted his eyes back at Kenzo who held a cigarette between his index and middle finger while holding on a cup of alcohol in his other hand.
“Recognize your enemies?” Kenzo asked him in a casual tone.
“Hmm.” Tora indirectly responded.
Was this tonight’s purpose?
“What exactly are we here for?” Tora cautiously inquired.
Kenzo took a sip of his rum before quietly placing it down on the coffee table. “If you want to take on the mafia boss, are you prepared to deal with… everyone in this city?”
Everyone. Kenzo was being literal.
“You mean I got to duke everyone myself while you sit back and watch me?” Tora raised one of his eyebrows.
“I might. Depending on your answer.” Kenzo purposely squished his cigarette in the ash tray and dropped it in there.
Depending on his answer? What the fuck did he mean?
“My answer to what?”
“Are you prepared to fight this whole city?” Kenzo repeated his question.
Tora thought about all of those people in hallway who wore such luxurious and expensive outfits. Damn. It was the whole city. Could he honestly do it? He thought about Byou and Manabu. Yes, he had to do it. This was the city that fucked up his partner’s and his brother’s lives.
“No matter what it takes.” Tora responded after a long moment of silence.
Kenzo gazed at Tora’s gleaming eyes. There was something particular about his chocolate, brown eyes. They brimmed with determination and courage. Hmm, Kenzo was impressed with this new cop guy. Maybe Tora was the right guy. But he couldn’t be so sure yet.
“Okay, Tora. Let’s see and find out if you’re the right person for the job.” Kenzo sat upright in the cushioned chair.
Right guy? Tora stayed silent pondering the meaning of Kenzo’s words. What exactly did Kenzo mean? Hmm, the thought boggled his mind. Ooh! Perhaps Kenzo was going to test him to see if he was the ‘right guy’. Dammit. He knew it wouldn’t be easy having Kenzo as an ally. Or whatever he was considered.
“What’s the test?” Tora cut to the chase.
Kenzo chuckled wearing a straight face. “Now, we’re talking.”
XOXOXOXO
Kazuki strolled back home thinking about his wonderful moment with Manabu at the bookstore. He walked Manabu back to his dorm, but figured he wouldn’t go inside his room in order to avoid chaos from Mizuki. Damn. He wanted to spend a night with Manabu… Ah, well. It was coming soon. This weekend!
He arrived at his huge mansion and casually entered inside of the house. He heard some chatter upstairs. It was odd for his father to be up this late at home still. He wondered what was going on. Hmm… Should he investigate? Or should he not? He voted for the latter half. He was tired and didn’t want to deal with his father.
As he was about to enter the living room to relax, he heard some quiet footsteps. He peered over his shoulder and spotted Rui’s cat, Maru. Damn. Why was she always coming after him? He gave her to Rui for a good reason…
“Gah, come on. Stop following me.” Kazuki tried to shoo her away, but she sat on her butt slowly wagging her tail.
When he entered the living room and sat down on the couch, she followed suit and sat down across from him. He stared at her. She stared at him. This silent staring contest lasted for a minute or two before Kazuki gave up. He playfully narrowed his eyes. She narrowed her eyes.
“Okay, fine. Whatever. Just don’t be loud.” Kazuki gave in and pulled out a book to read.
As he sat in peace reading his book, she snuggled up next to him resting her head on his leg. He moved his book out of the way and watched her rest against him. He slightly smiled putting his book down on the couch. He rubbed her fur with his fingernails.
“Guchi guchi!” Kazuki made sound effects as he tickled her stomach.
She abruptly moved around trying to avoid Kazuki’s fingers, but he immediately grabbed under her forelegs and brought her up to his face.
“Meow.” she let out as her body hung in the air.
He rubbed his nose against hers as she scrunched her face. Unexpectedly, she licked his cheek catching him off guard as a part of her silly revenge.
“Ah!” Kazuki closed his eyes laughing at Maru’s actions. “You’re such a devious girl!”
“Meow!” she struggled tapping her paws against Kazuki’s hands.
He propped her against his shoulder and held her bottom in his hands. He rubbed the palm of his hand against her soft, fuzzy fur. She nuzzled against Kazuki’s neck with a pleasing purring sound. He slightly chuckled at how she was easily pleased.
From the moment, he saw her in that cage, lonely and alone, he knew she was the right cat. She was everything like him. Everyone had abandoned her and none of the other pets ever bothered to play with her. He didn’t know why. She was a nice kitten. She might have been socially awkward, but so what? She was strong, courageous, fearless, smart, and stubborn. All of the qualities he had.
“Meow. Meow.” she tapped her paw against Kazuki’s ear.
“Ah, okay. Okay, Princess. I’m not a toy.” Kazuki teasingly said.
Even if she couldn’t speak the same language as him, she understood his loneliness. He wished he could openly protect Rui, but… he knew because of his conflicting emotions, he could never do it to the best of his abilities. That was why he chose her in that shelter home. Perhaps she would protect Rui better than he could.
“Kazuki.” his father’s voice caught him off guard.
Kazuki released his hand from Maru causing her to hop down to the ground and disappear. Goddammit. It was his stupid father. What the hell did his father want with him? He despised dealing with his father.
“What?” Kazuki defiantly answered.
“Don’t use that tone with me,” his father sternly ordered him.
He could never have a real conversation with his father. There was never that caring, father-son moment. No, it was pure business. It was how his father saw him. A product that needed precious care until the moment was right.
“Yes, father.” Kazuki could only sigh at his father’s irksome request.
His father sat down on the big chair across from Kazuki. There was a good amount of distance in between them. It was as if the space represented the gap in their relationship.
“You’ve arrived to the age where it’s time to get marry.” his father started the conversation.
Aw, shit. Marriage? Kazuki didn’t want to deal with this sort of shit. In fact, it was the last thing on his mind. “Marriage?”
“Yes, to continue this family’s legacy. Therefore, you will need to marry someone.” his father made it sound more like an order instead of an informative session or a one-on-one talk between a father and son.
“You mean I have to marry in order to produce-”
“Babies, if you must be so blunt.” his father, clearly galled, finished his sentence for him.
“Meow.” Maru purred as she tiptoed near his foot and sat down right next to it.
Kazuki was silent to his father’s command. He had to marry some girl? Goddamn it. Girls weren’t as… Uh… Well... He didn’t really like girls. But his dad must have known that since he was never forced to go on suffocating dates with girls unlike most other guys with his same status.
“I have chosen a girl for you already,” his father informed him of the worst news possible.
Damn his father. Already? He didn’t even get a chance to choose the girl he was going to have to suffer with? Dammit. He gritted his teeth hard. He fucking hated the limitations his father placed on him. His father already didn’t care about him. Why did his father have to fucking place restraints on him?
“I’ve already met her and she’s beautiful. So you should be glad,” his father continued on. “I don’t particular care if you don’t like her, Son. Just produce me some grandchildren.”
“I don’t particularly care with who or what you do in your free time.”
It was as if his father was saying that he could fuck with anyone he could only that he had to produce children with this random girl. He knew this from the beginning, but this conversation showed just how much father cared about him. If he disappeared or died off the face of the Earth, his father would probably not even notice and might even be happy or relieved.
“Understood?” His father was about to lean in toward Kazuki to emphasize his point.
Suddenly, Maru hopped up onto the sofa and hissed at his father. Kazuki’s heart skipped a beat. His father blinked fiercely at Maru before shifting up his stare toward Kazuki.
Oh, shit. No one ever dared to show his father disagreement or disobeyed him for any reason. And he doubted Maru was exempted from that rule… since he originally bought her for Rui.
“Didn’t you buy this cat for Rui?” his father asked him in a seemingly casual manner.
Why was he bringing Rui into this conversation?
“Yes, I did because Rui likes cat.” Kazuki carefully answered him.
“Hmm… Did you influence him to like… cats?” his father slowly asked him.
Kazuki was perplexed by his father’s words. What was he trying to hint at? If anything… it was Kazuki who found out Rui’s passion for cats. Was he trying to fucking accuse him for Rui’s passion?
“Just like you influenced him to get those piercings on his left ear? Hmm?” his father stood up, looming over Kazuki.
What? Rui had gotten piercings? When? Fuck! When? When? When? Goddammit it all! Why didn’t fucking Kenzo tell him?!
“I’m sure you wouldn’t know, though. Since I know Kenzo always hangs out with him,” his father revealed.
Kazuki froze in his spot. Shit. How did his father find out? He knew his father was shrewd and sly, but… even though Kazuki made such a foolproof plan. Fuck this. Kenzo must have screwed him over. It was the only way.
His father swiftly grabbed Kazuki’s shirt collar forcing him to stand on his two feet as Maru leaped down to the floor disappearing from the scene. Without a seconds notice, he punched Kauzki smack dab in his eye. Kazuki was sent flying to the floor colliding against the wooden stand where a vase of flower stood.
“Ah!” Kazuki shouted as the impact reverberated throughout his body.
The flower vase tipped over, crashing onto Kazuki’s head, and shattered into millions of pieces. Shit! His head fucking hurt!
Kazuki heavily breathed trying to regain his sense of awareness. Shit. He couldn’t even properly see. He was having a hard time opening his right eye. Fuck. It really hurt. Damn his father for punching his eye… Goddamn. He fucking hated when his father did this to him. How would he explain his purple eye tomorrow at school?
“Stand up.” his father commanded him.
Kazuki grudgingly stood up knowing what was going to come next, but he had to do so. Disobeying his father… would mean absolute hell… worse than what he was experiencing now.
He recalled back in his younger days when his father punished him for doing bad acts. While most kids might be grounded or smacked with their parents’ hand once, he would be punched and beaten several times. It was because he had to learn his lesson according to his father’s philosophy.
When the beating was done, no one cared about him. Even the servants turned a blind eye to his obvious wounds and bleeding. Yes… they would all ignore him like nothing ever happened.
His father proceeded to land a quick, but deathly blow to his cheek, which caused him to lose his footing and fall onto the floor again. Kazuki landed with one hand on the floor in order to prevent his face from being slammed into the ground. Goddammit. His cheek really fucking hurt. He cupped his cheek with his other hand. He felt blood dribble down his mouth. Shit. It would probably be swollen later.
Dammit. He tasted the disgusting metallic blood. It was fucking gross.
“Normally, I would ask you why, but I’m going to let it slide this time since I’m in a forgiving mood,” his father creepily said to him. “When I come back, I expect you to do as I say. You understand?”
At first, Kazuki stayed silent refusing to answer his stupid father. No, dammit. He didn’t want to listen to his father. That would mean he lost and had to completely submit. He never wanted to give in to anyone, especially not his father! The bastard who didn’t even give a shit about him!
His father methodically crushed the shattered shreds of the flower vase as he ominously walked towards him. He paused at Kazuki’s side and kicked him in the stomach, which sent Kazuki rolling over the floor and eventually slamming into the wall.
“Agh!” Kazuki loudly gasped for air.
Goddamn. His father nearly kicked the wind out of him. Shit. He could barely breathe… let alone stand up. God… his stomach was in too much pain for him… to move… Damn. Not to mention that his back was aching like some old foggie…
He deeply breathed in and out. He turned over and gripped onto his stomach. Shit. There was too much pain. Shit. Shit. He felt himself curling up towards the wall like a fucking baby who couldn’t handle the pressure. Shit. He was supposed to be better than this. All of his years of training and this was his limit? Fuck.
“Do you understand?” his father again stood before him expecting a response.
Before Kazuki had a chance to respond, his father stepped on Kazuki’s waist with his foot and implanted his foot on it with so much force Kazuki could hardly breathe.
“Huh!” Kazuki started having double vision. Shit! The fucking pain!
Shit! If his father didn’t let go, he was going to die! He gasped raggedly for precious, sweet oxygen!
To stop the excruciating, immense pain, he unwillingly surrendered to his father’s request. “Yes, yes! I understand! I understand!”
His father released his foot and irritatingly sighed. His father was silent for a moment concocting in his head what to say next. He randomly kicked Kazuki again as if to enforce his authority.
Kazuki jerked at the unexpected blow. A sharp pain shot up his spine. He was already beaten, down on the ground, and completely humiliated by his father. What more did the bastard want? If anything, why couldn’t his father leave him alone…?
“Good. As long as you understand. You’ll be seeing your fiancé next week.” his father suavely fixed his shirt as though he came out of a scuffle.
Fiancé? Dammit… He watched his father exit the room without even caring about his condition. Fuck. How would he explain to Manabu about the blatant injuries on his face? He wished he could get rid of it. Fucking shit… Why was he cursed with such a brutal father? Would it have been better if he were never born… since he seemed to be an eyesore to his father?
“Meow.” Maru came over toward Kazuki wearing a solemn, melancholy expression.
She stood on her four legs, but bent down as she licked his face. He didn’t realize why she licked his face until the tears cascaded down his cheeks. He knew what it was, but he didn’t want to admit it. He didn’t want to admit that he was weak. Crying was a sign of weakness. Dammit. He couldn’t admit he was weak. He couldn’t.
“Gosh, Maru-san, you’re making me look bad. I’m supposed to be the man.” Kazuki jokingly wheezed, even though his face was drenched in tears.
She attempted to catch the tears by wiping her fur on his cheeks, but they kept on streaming down his face. He might have turned away from her assistance… but right now… she was the only living thing who gave a shit about his well being.
XOXOXOXO
Manabu couldn’t get much sleep so he decided to sit in his bed with his art pad and pencil. His art teacher approached him to join the school’s art competition. Since this was a famous school, many rich people including CEOs and wealthy businessmen came here to view the art pieces the students created. He was surprised to hear these rich people bought an art piece or two after the competition and scoring was over. Winning this competition was a foot in the door for Manabu since it would help him get his name out there. Apparently, he heard from his art teacher that, if he won recognition at this school, he could go on to compete in bigger competitions. Perhaps even compete with international artists.
But what could he draw? Hmm… The theme of this year’s art competition was beauty. He flipped through his art pad gazing at his old artworks. He had gotten inspiration from his surroundings especially from nature and the random people he saw going about their daily lives. It was how he released his sorrows when he was younger. Or else he might have never survived that hellhole.
When he flipped to a new art page, he gazed at the white blank sheet. What should he draw for the competition? Suddenly, an image of Kazuki appeared in his mind. He blinked his eyes, shook his head, and lightly slapped himself. What the hell was he thinking? He couldn’t…
“Manabuuu!” Mizuki came out of the shower interrupting his thoughts.
Manabu quickly shut his art pad and hid it underneath his blanket. “What?”
“When did you get up?” Mizuki inquired.
“When you were in the shower.” Manabu answered.
“Oh! You must be thirsty!” Mizuki exclaimed. “Let me get something for you to drink!”
Manabu peered at the time and noticed that it was 8:30am. Kazuki was late. Not that he was ready, but Kazuki was usually on time. The fact Mizuki was up this early as well was off kilter. Everything seemed to be off today. He wondered where Kazuki was.
“I’ll you get something sweet to drink. I’ll be back.” Mizuki grabbed some change from his pouch and headed for the door.
“Wait! Mizuki, I don’t like-” Manabu was about to tell him when he suddenly heard a huge splat sound after the creaking of the door opening.
Manabu was puzzled and immediately got out from his bed to find Mizuki… covered in feathers and honey?
“What the hell happened to you?” Manabu was shocked.
“Manabu, isn’t this the time your normally leave for class?” Mizuki surprisingly asked.
“Yeah, but I was tired today.” Manabu didn’t understand where Mizuki was going with the question.
Oh, no… Mizuki sensed that someone was targeting Manabu. But who? Someone who knew Manabu’s schedule very well. Kazuki? But that wouldn’t make any sense. Something wasn’t right. Agh! He had to protect Manabu from whoever it was!
XOXOXOXO
Kazuki woke up that morning with a super dry face. Goddamn. He had been… crying tears last night even long after his father punished him. He had a hard time sleeping last thinking about his lonely past. Damn. He noticed the time. Dammit. It was past the time he would normally pick up Manabu. Hopefully, Manabu would forgive him this once.
He rubbed his eyes as he surveyed his surroundings. His room was huge. It could probably make up the size of six classrooms. Yet he was all by himself in this big room. He had everything anyone could imagine. A huge, comfortable bed with curtains tied up to the bed posts. A huge study desk with space for a few bookshelves, a giant flat screen television hanging on his wall, a spacious living room setting set up right in front of the television, a balcony right outside of his room, his own luxurious bathroom that had a bath and shower… It could be called Heaven to most people. But to him… It was the place that reminded of great sorrow and sadness.
The fact was… he didn’t have any special person to live with in this room. He didn’t want to live alone, but he didn’t have a choice. He was born to this accursed life.
He headed to the bathroom and stood in front of the sink. He faced the mirror immediately spotting his purple eye and bruised up cheek. Dammit. His cheek wasn’t as swollen as last night, but the wound was obvious. He tenderly touched over it, but even that caused too much pain. He soaked his eye in hot water last night, but the bruise was still visible. It would take a few days before the bruises went away.
He silently dressed up for school and headed outside to the courtyard where his ride would be waiting for him.
“Kazuki-chan!” Uruha’s voice unexpectedly greeted him.
Kazuki looked up at Uruha who wasn’t expecting to see Kazuki in such a beaten up state. Uruha’s heart skipped a beat. He was suddenly worried about Kazuki.
“Kazuki-chan… what happened to you?” Uruha asked in a concerned manner.
“Nothing much. I was just out on a bust.” Kazuki quickly fabricated some story.
“But you never get hurt on a bust. Besides, I thought you were suspended.” Uruha was puzzled by his story.
“I know. That’s what I get for breaking the rules.” Kazuki casually waved it off.
Uruha realized that it must have been Kazuki’s father. He felt helpless when he had to cheer Kazuki up. It was difficult since Kazuki never admitted the truth. Ever since they were children, whenever Kazuki had any wounds or scratches, Uruha knew it was because of his father only because he had heard rumors of his father being ruthless to everyone and anyone… including his own son.
Uruha didn’t know if it was because of his man pride, but Uruha had a hard time breaking down that shell Kazuki fortified around himself. Even though he had been friends with Kazuki for so long, he still had a hard time understanding who Kazuki really was.
“Umm… Sorry for asking.” Uruha guilty apologized not knowing how else to make Kazuki feel better.
“What are you apologizing for? Let’s get going.” Kazuki acted like his normal self.
Uruha wondered why Kazuki always hid his true feelings. Didn’t he know that he was here to support him? It pained Uruha’s heart that Kazuki closed off everyone including him from his sorrowful world.
XOXOXOXO
After the feather and honey incident, Mizuki decided to stick by Manabu. Someone was out to get him. Even if Manabu didn’t realize, Mizuki did! He would do anything to protect Manabu!
Strange incidents kept happening during the school day. Mizuki got rinsed by water buckets when he opened a door, tangled with some fake snakes when he opened Manabu’s textbooks, and all sorts of crazy stupid pranks. Manabu didn’t understand why Mizuki was getting hurt. Most of the time, it was usually in his path, but Mizuki managed to step in the way and suffer the prank instead… Who was out to get him?
When Manabu had arrived to art class, he found Kazuki, with his back turned, facing the canvas. Manabu thought he could play a trick on Kazuki for once. For all of the times, Kazuki made him suffer with endless jokes and teases, maybe Manabu could pull the joke on him.
Right when Manabu was about to put his schoolbag down on the stool, Kazuki spoke up, “Hey, Manabu.”
Kazuki slightly turned around to face Manabu. “Hmm, why don’t you switch out that chair? It looks too short for you.”
Manabu gazed at it. “You think?”
“Yeah! Trust me. I’m usually right.” Kazuki reassured him.
Manabu switched chairs stools with the once next to him. Hopefully, the two students sitting next to them wouldn’t notice the seat change. As Manabu took a seat, Kazuki turned his face away from his. Manabu wondered if he had something to hide.
“Hey, Kazuki. Umm… are we still going to eat lunch together?” Manabu asked.
“Of course. What made you think differently?” Kazuki answered, but still had his face turned away.
Kazuki was definitely trying to hide something! How could he get Kazuki to turn around…?
Kazuki couldn’t let Manabu see his face. He looked like a wreck. Manabu would ask him a million questions and he would never see the end of it.
Suddenly, Kazuki heard a loud crash behind him. What happened? Did Manabu get hurt? Oh, no! He instinctively turned around only to find Manabu still sitting on the stool with two paint trays clashed together. Kazuki realized what had just transpired. Goddammit! How could he fall for Manabu’s trick?!
“I knew it.” Manabu put the paint trays down on the table. “You were hiding something.”
“What? What are you talking about?” Kazuki acted as if he didn’t understand what Manabu was talking about.
“Kazuki, don’t play stupid!” Manabu crossed his arms.
He saw Kazuki’s purple right eye and right cheek covered in bruises. Someone had hurt him. But who could ever hurt Kazuki? From what Manabu remembered, Kazuki was almost too strong to let any opponent touch him. It had to be someone even stronger than him…
Kazuki playfully frowned trying to play off the bruises. He knew Manabu would question him to no end. Dammit.
“Where did you get those from?” Manabu asked him.
“Um… I got it while I was fighting. You know how I’m always fighting those guys.” Kazuki prepared his fists in front of him, pretending he was going to fight, with a serious face.
Manabu glared at him knowing that Kazuki was lying straight out of his teeth. “But I’ve seen you fight. You didn’t get hurt.”
“Well, things happen. And that was just one fight you saw. I get hurt in other fights.” Kazuki continued to fabricate the story.
It pained Manabu to see Kazuki wearing such a smile on his face even though the bruises were painful. He didn’t understand why Kazuki made up some story. Why couldn’t he tell the truth? Did he think Manabu didn’t understand or was too innocent?
“Some secrets are not worth keeping a secret.” Manabu said to him before he turned around to start the art assignment.
If Kazuki wasn’t going to tell him, then he couldn’t force him.
The words reverberated in his mind. Damn. If it were someone else, he might have not cared what they said. But the fact was… Manabu wanted to know. The very person his heart beat for. Yet he couldn’t tell him straight up. How would Manabu react if Kazuki let him know the truth?
Mizuki watched the scene from afar. Kazuki had seriously gotten hurt and Manabu was getting dragged into it. Argh… He would look like a douche if he interrupted only because Kazuki was hurt. Hmm… He didn’t like the scene at all.
“Ahhh!”
An unexpected crackle and crash slammed against the ground while a soft human body collided with the floor. Everyone in the classroom directed their attention to the source of the sound and saw a stool broken and a student lying on the floor injured.
“What happened?” the art teacher immediately came over.
“I don’t know, Sensei. I sat on the stool and it suddenly broke. I think it was broken or something.” the student moaned due to the immense pain.
Manabu watched in horror. That was originally his stool. What the hell…? Was someone really out to get him? But who had such vendetta against him? Suddenly, Manabu became afraid for his life.
Kazuki suspected the chair was broken beforehand. He noticed it when he came in that something was wrong with it. After hearing all of the chatter around school, Kazuki discovered that Mizuki had been falling into stupid silly, pranks, but no one knew who pulled them. Some of the students muttered that if Mizuki hadn’t been in the way, Manabu might have gotten caught in the sick joke.
Someone clearly didn’t like Manabu’s presence. Kazuki knew the one person who would create such harsh pranks.
Kazuki shifted his eyes toward Manabu, who was in such a frightened state. Kazuki reached over placing his hand Manabu’s shoulder and rubbed it. “Don’t worry about it.”
Manabu blinked his eyes still in a daze. “What?”
“Don’t be so scared. I’m here to protect you.” Kazuki reassured him with confidence.
For the first time in his life, Manabu’s spirit was lifted. Someone actually cared for his existence? Someone in this world minded if he was truly gone.
Part B