[Log] Fuji & Saeki: Catching Up and Catching On (Backdated)
Characters: Fuji Syūsuke & Saeki Koujirou
Location: A restaurant in Tokyo
Time: Backdated to before the cruise
Rating: G
Summary: Saeki and Fuji meet up for a Sunday brunch to catch up. Certain hidden feelings are explored, and all agree that Yuuta is very much beloved indeed. In fact, if Yuuta only knew, he could probably rule the world through these two. <3
The sun was bright, and light breeze carried scent of spring in every whisper. It was such a gorgeous day, Fuji was glad he and Saeki had agreed on a restaurant with outdoor tables for their brunch. Ah, there was the charming new place. The restaurant’s façade had been redone completely, with flowing curves and geometrical shapes reminiscent of an Antoni Gaudí design.
Spotting Saeki’s distinctive hair at one of the restaurant’s outdoor tables, Fuji rechecked his watch. He was fifteen minutes early, as usual. Though, as one of his oldest friends, Saeki most likely had expected that, and -- being ever the gentleman, thought Fuji with a smile -- had arrived even earlier.
"Good morning, Saeki. Have you been waiting long?" Fuji asked as he walked to the table. The magazine Saeki was perusing drew his gaze, and Fuji hummed. "Find anything interesting?"
Saeki's head snapped up from the magazine he'd been reading. Smiling at the sight of one of his oldest friends, he stretched out one of his legs to push the chair across from him out so that Fuji could sit. The magazine he'd been reading was a tennis one where he had been reading an article about Japan's up and coming pros. "Fuji! It's good to see you, it's been a while. Don't mind this, it's just a tennis magazine. Though I admit I am curious about something. Since when does Dolche and Gabana make tennis uniforms? Though you do look good in them."
"Every designer brand makes them these days. Shoes, bags, jewelry, sportswear, perfumes -- you name it, they've got it." Fuji nodded his thanks at the proffered chair and sat down. "I remember that shoot. They'd had one of those rising tennis stars come model the girls' outfit. She threw a tantrum about that. Even after they explained she couldn't model the women's outfit with her height." The three others -- two women and one man -- were all professional models, and had taken turns rolling eyes at each other behind the girl's back. Fuji had been next to the tennis starlet, as they'd been modeling teen outfits together. Right after the shoot, she'd approached him and they'd gone out on a few dates.
Of course, it all went pear-shaped when she realized he played tennis better than she did.
"That's an old issue, isn't it? I thought you'd have kept up." Fuji had the same issue at home, and had dutifully cut out the article featuring Yuuta for the family scrapbook.
"So does that mean that you modeled the boys uniform then?" Saeki asked innocently as he picked up his cup of tea and took a long sip.
At the mention of the age of the magazine, Saeki nearly blushed. He'd kept it mostly for the article on Yuuta, even though it was also the issue with his first article for that particular company. "I like to reminice from time to time. Yuupyon is really doing well this year, isn't he?"
Fuji gave him a good-natured kick under the table. "Ha ha. Funny, Sae. And of course he is." Yuuta’s growth had outstripped his own way back in junior high, but it was still annoying to find seven years later, he was even shorter now compared to his younger brother -- and practically everyone else he knew. It wasn't even that he was particularly short for a guy; but almost everyone he knew were athletes and were on the far end of the height spectrum.
Fuji raised an eyebrow at Saeki's sudden embarrassment. Saeki wasn't quite as obvious about it as he had been when they were younger, but the way he avoided eye contact was still a dead giveaway. Saeki had always had such honest eyes.
And, of course, there was the little fact that the article on Yuuta was a page behind the Dolce & Gabbana ad.
"Professional attachment, Sae?" he asked lightly, almost teasing. "Or personal?" he added, as the waiter brought him a cup of tea and a menu.
"I know, I'm hilarious. It comes from spending so much time around Bane and Dabide. You should be thankfully I avoid puns." Saeki laughed at the kick aimed at his leg. "Are you sure you shouldn't have tried out for soccer when we were little?"
Clearing his throat in response to the raised eyebrow, Saeki did his best to look casual with a hint of defiance as he looked back at Fuji. "Personal. Though he's not the only reason I keep this old magazine around."
"Only because your puns never quite pack the punch," Fuji returned, amused. "And only if you'd have tried out with me, Sae. As my goalkeeper." He was totally not imagining kicking the ball into some unfortunate goalie's groin there. Not at all.
Saeki's admission turned his smile softer, and fonder. He's always loved Saeki’s honesty. Just like Yuuta’s, come to think of it. Perhaps that was why he'd always been so hopelessly fond of the two. "It's not like you, though," he said gently. "You're so confident with everyone else."
"I'm not sure I would be able to find a strong enough cup for that. And stop wishing pain on others when you're having lunch with me. Unless you plan on sharing you plans, in which case, spill." Saeki laughed lightly. He still knew Fuji well enough to know that the smaller man had been thinking of harming someone, he jsut didn't know who.
Saeki sighed softly and toyed with the corner of his menu. "Yeah, well, this is more complicated. You know that. And even if it wasn't, he's still gone so much. And I will be more and more. I got the job as a travel journalist. And since I'm young and unattached, I'll probably be getting a lot of distant assignments to remote areas."
"Well, if it's you, it wouldn't be fatal," Fuji replied, mischievous sparkle in his eyes. "No guarantee for anyone else." The menu had an odd mix of European and American cuisine mixed with Japanese. Teriyaki paella -- hmm. Fuji mentally marked it, and kept reading.
True, a romantic relationship was difficult to maintain when both parties were so busy. And there was that small matter of Yuuta being seemingly oblivious. But it wasn't like those obstacles were insurmountable. "You get shy when it's for real," Fuji observed. Then, with a rueful shake of head, he let out a soft laugh. "If it was anyone but you, Sae, I'd find it endearing."
In you, it's heartbreaking. Because this is the one thing I can't help you with.
"Is that so? I'm happy to know that I would survive the experience. Besides, if you killed me, I'll arrange to have Dabide follow you and tell you puns for the rest of your life." Saeki laughed and waved a server over to refill their tea.
Saeki's cheeks darkend a bit again. "So if it's not endearing in me, what is it? And is it a crime that I get shy? It shows how much it matters to me."
"I'm so terrified, you just might find the next one fatal," Fuji teased right back. Then his expression sobered, turning fond and perhaps a little sad. Wordlessly, Fuji reached over the table to squeeze Saeki's hand affectionately, but changed subject instead of answering the question. "I've been meaning to ask you. Did you get an invitation from Atobe? For a cruise to Bermuda?"
Sticking his tongue out at Fuji's teasing threat, Saeki watched the emotions playing over his friend's face. The lack of a verbal response to his question made the protective part of him sit up and pay closer attention.
"Ah, yeah I did. I won't be able to make it though."
"Other plans?" Fuji asked. He debated for a moment, then mentally shrugged. It couldn't hurt to mention, surely. "I think Yuuta's going. I plan to, as well. It's been years since all three of us went on a vacation together."
"Damn. I can't miss this chance though. I've got the opportunity to sail around the world and write a book about it. Me, writing a book, can you believe it? It's a shame I'll miss seeing Yuupyon, though." Saeki sulked a bit at the thought of note getting to see Yuuta after so many years. But still, he had the chance of a lifetime at his fingertips, surely Yuuta would forgive him for that.
"Ah, I see." And he did, really. Both he and Saeki were just starting out in the professional world. Now was not the time to miss any chances that came their way. "I'll share the pictures." By that he meant Yuuta's most of all, of course. That was always understood.
"But I'll expect fair return. At least an autographed copy of your book, when it comes out. And you're taking us out for dinner. I pick the restaurant."
"Just the one copy? That's easy enough to do. And as long as you don't try to slip wasabi in my food again, I doubt we'll get kicked out of another restaurant." Saeki grinned playfully and took a drink of tea. "I look forward to the photos. It's a shame that I didn't get a chance to talk you into coming with me to do pictures for my book, but I suppose my amateur ones will suffice just fine."
Fuji gave Saeki his best innocent look, which used to work better when he was six years old and had round cheeks and dimples to go with it. "I'll admit, I haven't been very good with keeping touch. I'm hoping to meet up with some of my old friends on this cruise. What about you? Will anyone from your old team be joining you on your trip?" It was a reasonable question, actually -- the former teammates of Rokkaku kept close contact with one another.
"Yeah, Bane and Dabide are going with me. So instead of going crazy from being at sea all by myself, I'll have Dabide there to do the job." Saeki nearly giggled at the thought of Dabide's unending puns, as well as Fuji's innocent look. If only he knew that I can see the devil horns holding up his halo. Oh wait, this is Fuji, he probably does know.
"What fun," Fuji returned, but he was inwardly relieved. The idea of Saeki embarking on such a long trip all by himself wasn't a very comforting one. Crossing an ocean on a small vessel wasn't the safest journey by any means. He was sure Saeki would not neglect proper preparation for all possibilities, but still... Ah well, in this day and age, it wasn't as if they'd be shipwrecked on some deserted island and become lost to the known civilization. Right? "So which places are you supposed to cover for your book?"
"Mm, I hope so. I can cover anything and everything I want. The publisher that offered me the chance just wants an honest account of what it's like to sail around the world. They're even providing the boat. And because it's been insured, I won't owe them money if something happens to it. I think Bane mentioned taking the chance to dive some ship wrecks if we come across any." Saeki carefully didn't mention how close they intended to sail to the Bermuda Triangle. He was curious to see if it really would affect their instruments.
"Well, if you do run across any sunken treasure, you'll share, won't you~?" Fuji's smile was wider, and definitely on the side of a kitty-that-just-spotted-the-canary. "After all, we're practically family. What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine, yes~?" Ah, the old rhyme and reason that used to stump the four-year-old Yuuta so much. He was sure Saeki remembered that one.
"Are you sure about that? I always thought it was that what's mine is mine and what's yours is Yuupyon's." Saeki grinned widely behind his tea cup. Any sunken treasure would go to Bane and Dabide first since they were the one who would be diving for it.
Fuji chuckled, fond and nostalgic. "It's probably lucky he doesn't realize that. At least, he doesn't take advantage even if he has." The look he directed at Saeki was wry. "Although, shouldn't that be what's Yuuta's is Yuuta's and what's yours is Yuuta's?"
"My money's on him not realizing it." Saeki smiled just a touch wistfully. "I wish. But alas, that's not how it is. Maybe someday though."
Fuji gave him a warm smile. "It's the reason he's our Yuuta." He might as well have said, It's the reason we love Yuuta. Both he and Saeki knew it.
Fuji patted his hand in silent sympathy. This wasn't something he could interfere with. And historically, his attempts at intervention had rarely worked out the way he intended, anyway. The two times he'd tried with Yuuta, way back in junior high school, both times had backfired. The first time, Yuuta actually went back -- voluntarily and with full knowledge of what happened -- to that conniving manager of his. The second time...
"We wouldn't want it any other way, would we?"
"That is true. If he wasn't like that, he wouldn't be Yuupyon. And that would just be a damn shame." Smiling at the pat to his hand, Saeki forced himself to stop playing with his menu. As much as he wanted a chance with Yuuta, he knew going through Fuji wouldn't be the right way to go about it at all.
"Shall we order lunch now?"
There was nothing to do but drop the subject. And it wouldn't be fair to encourage Saeki any further. Yuuta could be oblivious to Saeki's feelings, or he could just as easily be uninterested. It was difficult to see his friend in what amounted to a lose-lose situation, but...it really wasn't his place, either.
"Yes. I think I'll just stick to the spicy teriyaki paella. You?"
Thankful for the change in topic, Saeki flagged down a server and ordered a plate of tempura california rolls and curry along with Fuji's paella. Turning back to his friend as the server left with their menus, Saeki added a little more sugar to his tea. "So, any big breaks on the horizon for you? You've heard mine."
"Nothing much. You know I've been working for them for years. Being hired as a full-time employee doesn't change anything." Fuji took a sip of his tea. "I hope I end up permanently working for one of the travel and leisure mags, though. At least those will give me interesting assignments. I haven't had anything exciting since my Kyoto assignment."
"Well at least you have steady work. I mostly freelance still. The travel assignments are pretty nice though. If you land that, you should let me know. I can point you in the right direction for good guides in some out of the way places." Saeki leaned forward in his seat in mild excitement as he started talking about traveling.
"Mm. I will," Fuji promised. "No new scoop on the personal side, hmm? No trail of broken hearts left behind?" He was only half-teasing, at that. Saeki was always so popular, and it was difficult to imagine none of the girls he met at school or on assignments had made a move. Or boys, for that matter.
Saeki chuckled softly. "Not as such. I've had a few flings here and there. Nothing serious though. What about you? Surely, there are ladies-and perhaps a few men-weeping at the lose of you."
"Only dates, for the last year. The last actual girlfriend was back in Kyoto. I sent you a picture of her once -- the maiko in the blue and yellow kimono?" That had been one of his rare relationships, lasting over five months. Saeki's description of his supposed past exploits made him chuckle. "Oh, don't you start, Sae. I bet you've broken more hearts than I have. I haven't broken any hearts in years. Unless you're talking about the ones who had a new awakening in their sexuality."
"Ah, yeah. I think I remember that one. She was pretty." Saeki grinned at the accusation of being a heartbreaker before quirking an eyebrow at the last part of Fuji's comment. "Oh? Have you turned a few new guys to the 'dark side?' And how hot were they?"
"She was, wasn't she?" Fuji smiled fondly. He'd loved her hands. They were particularly beautiful when she was performing traditional dances. "I wouldn't quite call it turning," Fuji replied demurely, eyes twinkling. "More like...uncovering a hidden potential that was always there. But -- yes, rather hot," he admitted, just a touch of smugness in his voice.
"Hmm, good to know you've helped add fresh blood to the market. And of high quality too. You know, sometimes I'm jealous of you. You have that air of mystery that draws people in, whether they know it or not." Saeki's grin turned mischevious at the smug tone of Fuji's voice.
"Flattery will get you everywhere," returned Fuji with a playful smirk. "As if your charms don't land you fangirls in droves."
"Really now? So that means you're buying today, right? Mr. Steady Job." Saeki teased as the server brought their lunches out. "The problem is that they're fangirls. Maybe if one of them had more depth, I'd be willing to to on more than one or two dates." Sighing dramatically, Saeki picked up his spoon and started in on his curry. "Alas, I'm doomed to wait for someone who is immune to this gallantry you speak of."
"Sure," he replied easily. "And yes, fangirls do have that problem." As for someone immune, there was one who was already immune to all of Saeki's antics and then some. The same someone they were trying to avoid bringing up in their conversation, unfortunately. "Dating isn't that much fun," Fuji said. When he was younger he might have found it fun to date casually. Not anymore.
"It really isn't. Though I almost feel too young to say that some days. We're in the prime of our lives, and we're both already bored with dating. I really don't know if that means there is something wrong with us, or something very right. It could just be that we're that cool." Saeki grinned playfully at his last remark. "How's your lunch?"
Fuji laughed. It was impossible not to, when he was with Saeki. "Oh, definitely because we're just that cool," he said, mirth giving a lilt to his voice. "It's better than I expected. Not quite as spicy, though. Care to try it?"
Saeki considered the offer for a moment before answering. "Sure, why not. You're welcome to try some of my curry if you'd like."
"Thank you." The curry was a bit sweeter than he'd have liked (he actually preferred the real Indian curry with a stronger bite), but not bad at all. "I'm glad I found this place. I love the decor." Come to think of it, a lot of the dishes on the menu were originally from Spain. Perhaps that explained the new exterior, which definitely hinted at influence of Antoni Gaudí architectural hallmarks.
"It is very nice. You chose well, Fuji. I think we might have to come here more often." Saeki had never had the same eye for decor and design that Fuji did, but it never really mattered between them. Thinking to himself for a moment or two, Saeki raised a new topic between them. "So, we've analyzed my lack of a love life, but what about you? I don't think I've gotten a straight answer out of you on that."
Tucking a few flyaway wisps of hair behind his ear, Fuji cocked his head. "Haven't you, now? Looking for straight answers, were you?" There was an amused smile lurking on his lips at the double entendre. He'd certainly never lacked dates, and had a good number of girlfriends (and occasionally, boyfriends) in the past. But he never talked to anyone about his relationships, preferring to keep the information private.
"Why yes, I am. I'd like to know if there's anyone I need to come meet to make sure they're up to snuff. You do deserve only the best after all." Saeki's smile was only half teasing. He really did have high standards on Fuji's behalf, but figured it was only fair. If Fuji was going to be protective of Yuuta, then he deserved to have someone be protective of him as well.
"No one, just yet." Fuji graced him with a warm smile. Just like the time Saeki deliberately lost to Yuuta, and the times Fuji himself took on certain opponents on Yuuta's behalf, the three of them had always looked out for each other since they were little. In some ways, Saeki was more like a brother than a friend. "If I ever find someone, you'll be the first to know," he promised. "And I'd better be the first to know when you do, too, Koujirou."
"Of course you will be, Syuusuke. Though I'm sure we both know who I'm hoping for." Saeki smiled warmly at his oldest friend. Growing up with Fuji and Yuuta had been like having two brothers who slept at a different house, and he missed that closeness quite often.
"At least I can't fault you for your tastes," Fuji quipped lightly, but his eyes still held understanding. They were nearly done with their food. But it was still early, and they didn't get to spend time together that often anymore. Hmm. "Do you want to go for a movie after?"
At the offer to go to a movie, Saeki perked up just a bit. "Sure! We could go see the new Kamen Rider movie." He knew he was showing his inner geek, but Saeki trusted Fuji to not laugh at him for it.
Fuji had to bite his lip not to laugh. Sometimes, Saeki was just too cute for words. "If you'd like." He signaled for the waiter, who approached with the bill. Before Saeki could make a grab for it, he snapped up the bill and handed it back to the waiter with enough money to cover their meals and a little bit of tip. It wasn't really customary to tip in Japan, but Fuji had grown up seeing his parents do it all the time, so the habit of tipping came naturally to him.
"Shall we go?"
Sticking his tongue out at Fuji for stealing the ticket, Saeki gathered his things and stood. "Sure. But just for that, the movie is on me. and I won't let you argue it."
Fuji merely laughed at the display, and followed. "I wouldn't dream of it."
Location: A restaurant in Tokyo
Time: Backdated to before the cruise
Rating: G
Summary: Saeki and Fuji meet up for a Sunday brunch to catch up. Certain hidden feelings are explored, and all agree that Yuuta is very much beloved indeed. In fact, if Yuuta only knew, he could probably rule the world through these two. <3
The sun was bright, and light breeze carried scent of spring in every whisper. It was such a gorgeous day, Fuji was glad he and Saeki had agreed on a restaurant with outdoor tables for their brunch. Ah, there was the charming new place. The restaurant’s façade had been redone completely, with flowing curves and geometrical shapes reminiscent of an Antoni Gaudí design.
Spotting Saeki’s distinctive hair at one of the restaurant’s outdoor tables, Fuji rechecked his watch. He was fifteen minutes early, as usual. Though, as one of his oldest friends, Saeki most likely had expected that, and -- being ever the gentleman, thought Fuji with a smile -- had arrived even earlier.
"Good morning, Saeki. Have you been waiting long?" Fuji asked as he walked to the table. The magazine Saeki was perusing drew his gaze, and Fuji hummed. "Find anything interesting?"
Saeki's head snapped up from the magazine he'd been reading. Smiling at the sight of one of his oldest friends, he stretched out one of his legs to push the chair across from him out so that Fuji could sit. The magazine he'd been reading was a tennis one where he had been reading an article about Japan's up and coming pros. "Fuji! It's good to see you, it's been a while. Don't mind this, it's just a tennis magazine. Though I admit I am curious about something. Since when does Dolche and Gabana make tennis uniforms? Though you do look good in them."
"Every designer brand makes them these days. Shoes, bags, jewelry, sportswear, perfumes -- you name it, they've got it." Fuji nodded his thanks at the proffered chair and sat down. "I remember that shoot. They'd had one of those rising tennis stars come model the girls' outfit. She threw a tantrum about that. Even after they explained she couldn't model the women's outfit with her height." The three others -- two women and one man -- were all professional models, and had taken turns rolling eyes at each other behind the girl's back. Fuji had been next to the tennis starlet, as they'd been modeling teen outfits together. Right after the shoot, she'd approached him and they'd gone out on a few dates.
Of course, it all went pear-shaped when she realized he played tennis better than she did.
"That's an old issue, isn't it? I thought you'd have kept up." Fuji had the same issue at home, and had dutifully cut out the article featuring Yuuta for the family scrapbook.
"So does that mean that you modeled the boys uniform then?" Saeki asked innocently as he picked up his cup of tea and took a long sip.
At the mention of the age of the magazine, Saeki nearly blushed. He'd kept it mostly for the article on Yuuta, even though it was also the issue with his first article for that particular company. "I like to reminice from time to time. Yuupyon is really doing well this year, isn't he?"
Fuji gave him a good-natured kick under the table. "Ha ha. Funny, Sae. And of course he is." Yuuta’s growth had outstripped his own way back in junior high, but it was still annoying to find seven years later, he was even shorter now compared to his younger brother -- and practically everyone else he knew. It wasn't even that he was particularly short for a guy; but almost everyone he knew were athletes and were on the far end of the height spectrum.
Fuji raised an eyebrow at Saeki's sudden embarrassment. Saeki wasn't quite as obvious about it as he had been when they were younger, but the way he avoided eye contact was still a dead giveaway. Saeki had always had such honest eyes.
And, of course, there was the little fact that the article on Yuuta was a page behind the Dolce & Gabbana ad.
"Professional attachment, Sae?" he asked lightly, almost teasing. "Or personal?" he added, as the waiter brought him a cup of tea and a menu.
"I know, I'm hilarious. It comes from spending so much time around Bane and Dabide. You should be thankfully I avoid puns." Saeki laughed at the kick aimed at his leg. "Are you sure you shouldn't have tried out for soccer when we were little?"
Clearing his throat in response to the raised eyebrow, Saeki did his best to look casual with a hint of defiance as he looked back at Fuji. "Personal. Though he's not the only reason I keep this old magazine around."
"Only because your puns never quite pack the punch," Fuji returned, amused. "And only if you'd have tried out with me, Sae. As my goalkeeper." He was totally not imagining kicking the ball into some unfortunate goalie's groin there. Not at all.
Saeki's admission turned his smile softer, and fonder. He's always loved Saeki’s honesty. Just like Yuuta’s, come to think of it. Perhaps that was why he'd always been so hopelessly fond of the two. "It's not like you, though," he said gently. "You're so confident with everyone else."
"I'm not sure I would be able to find a strong enough cup for that. And stop wishing pain on others when you're having lunch with me. Unless you plan on sharing you plans, in which case, spill." Saeki laughed lightly. He still knew Fuji well enough to know that the smaller man had been thinking of harming someone, he jsut didn't know who.
Saeki sighed softly and toyed with the corner of his menu. "Yeah, well, this is more complicated. You know that. And even if it wasn't, he's still gone so much. And I will be more and more. I got the job as a travel journalist. And since I'm young and unattached, I'll probably be getting a lot of distant assignments to remote areas."
"Well, if it's you, it wouldn't be fatal," Fuji replied, mischievous sparkle in his eyes. "No guarantee for anyone else." The menu had an odd mix of European and American cuisine mixed with Japanese. Teriyaki paella -- hmm. Fuji mentally marked it, and kept reading.
True, a romantic relationship was difficult to maintain when both parties were so busy. And there was that small matter of Yuuta being seemingly oblivious. But it wasn't like those obstacles were insurmountable. "You get shy when it's for real," Fuji observed. Then, with a rueful shake of head, he let out a soft laugh. "If it was anyone but you, Sae, I'd find it endearing."
In you, it's heartbreaking. Because this is the one thing I can't help you with.
"Is that so? I'm happy to know that I would survive the experience. Besides, if you killed me, I'll arrange to have Dabide follow you and tell you puns for the rest of your life." Saeki laughed and waved a server over to refill their tea.
Saeki's cheeks darkend a bit again. "So if it's not endearing in me, what is it? And is it a crime that I get shy? It shows how much it matters to me."
"I'm so terrified, you just might find the next one fatal," Fuji teased right back. Then his expression sobered, turning fond and perhaps a little sad. Wordlessly, Fuji reached over the table to squeeze Saeki's hand affectionately, but changed subject instead of answering the question. "I've been meaning to ask you. Did you get an invitation from Atobe? For a cruise to Bermuda?"
Sticking his tongue out at Fuji's teasing threat, Saeki watched the emotions playing over his friend's face. The lack of a verbal response to his question made the protective part of him sit up and pay closer attention.
"Ah, yeah I did. I won't be able to make it though."
"Other plans?" Fuji asked. He debated for a moment, then mentally shrugged. It couldn't hurt to mention, surely. "I think Yuuta's going. I plan to, as well. It's been years since all three of us went on a vacation together."
"Damn. I can't miss this chance though. I've got the opportunity to sail around the world and write a book about it. Me, writing a book, can you believe it? It's a shame I'll miss seeing Yuupyon, though." Saeki sulked a bit at the thought of note getting to see Yuuta after so many years. But still, he had the chance of a lifetime at his fingertips, surely Yuuta would forgive him for that.
"Ah, I see." And he did, really. Both he and Saeki were just starting out in the professional world. Now was not the time to miss any chances that came their way. "I'll share the pictures." By that he meant Yuuta's most of all, of course. That was always understood.
"But I'll expect fair return. At least an autographed copy of your book, when it comes out. And you're taking us out for dinner. I pick the restaurant."
"Just the one copy? That's easy enough to do. And as long as you don't try to slip wasabi in my food again, I doubt we'll get kicked out of another restaurant." Saeki grinned playfully and took a drink of tea. "I look forward to the photos. It's a shame that I didn't get a chance to talk you into coming with me to do pictures for my book, but I suppose my amateur ones will suffice just fine."
Fuji gave Saeki his best innocent look, which used to work better when he was six years old and had round cheeks and dimples to go with it. "I'll admit, I haven't been very good with keeping touch. I'm hoping to meet up with some of my old friends on this cruise. What about you? Will anyone from your old team be joining you on your trip?" It was a reasonable question, actually -- the former teammates of Rokkaku kept close contact with one another.
"Yeah, Bane and Dabide are going with me. So instead of going crazy from being at sea all by myself, I'll have Dabide there to do the job." Saeki nearly giggled at the thought of Dabide's unending puns, as well as Fuji's innocent look. If only he knew that I can see the devil horns holding up his halo. Oh wait, this is Fuji, he probably does know.
"What fun," Fuji returned, but he was inwardly relieved. The idea of Saeki embarking on such a long trip all by himself wasn't a very comforting one. Crossing an ocean on a small vessel wasn't the safest journey by any means. He was sure Saeki would not neglect proper preparation for all possibilities, but still... Ah well, in this day and age, it wasn't as if they'd be shipwrecked on some deserted island and become lost to the known civilization. Right? "So which places are you supposed to cover for your book?"
"Mm, I hope so. I can cover anything and everything I want. The publisher that offered me the chance just wants an honest account of what it's like to sail around the world. They're even providing the boat. And because it's been insured, I won't owe them money if something happens to it. I think Bane mentioned taking the chance to dive some ship wrecks if we come across any." Saeki carefully didn't mention how close they intended to sail to the Bermuda Triangle. He was curious to see if it really would affect their instruments.
"Well, if you do run across any sunken treasure, you'll share, won't you~?" Fuji's smile was wider, and definitely on the side of a kitty-that-just-spotted-the-canary. "After all, we're practically family. What's yours is mine and what's mine is mine, yes~?" Ah, the old rhyme and reason that used to stump the four-year-old Yuuta so much. He was sure Saeki remembered that one.
"Are you sure about that? I always thought it was that what's mine is mine and what's yours is Yuupyon's." Saeki grinned widely behind his tea cup. Any sunken treasure would go to Bane and Dabide first since they were the one who would be diving for it.
Fuji chuckled, fond and nostalgic. "It's probably lucky he doesn't realize that. At least, he doesn't take advantage even if he has." The look he directed at Saeki was wry. "Although, shouldn't that be what's Yuuta's is Yuuta's and what's yours is Yuuta's?"
"My money's on him not realizing it." Saeki smiled just a touch wistfully. "I wish. But alas, that's not how it is. Maybe someday though."
Fuji gave him a warm smile. "It's the reason he's our Yuuta." He might as well have said, It's the reason we love Yuuta. Both he and Saeki knew it.
Fuji patted his hand in silent sympathy. This wasn't something he could interfere with. And historically, his attempts at intervention had rarely worked out the way he intended, anyway. The two times he'd tried with Yuuta, way back in junior high school, both times had backfired. The first time, Yuuta actually went back -- voluntarily and with full knowledge of what happened -- to that conniving manager of his. The second time...
"We wouldn't want it any other way, would we?"
"That is true. If he wasn't like that, he wouldn't be Yuupyon. And that would just be a damn shame." Smiling at the pat to his hand, Saeki forced himself to stop playing with his menu. As much as he wanted a chance with Yuuta, he knew going through Fuji wouldn't be the right way to go about it at all.
"Shall we order lunch now?"
There was nothing to do but drop the subject. And it wouldn't be fair to encourage Saeki any further. Yuuta could be oblivious to Saeki's feelings, or he could just as easily be uninterested. It was difficult to see his friend in what amounted to a lose-lose situation, but...it really wasn't his place, either.
"Yes. I think I'll just stick to the spicy teriyaki paella. You?"
Thankful for the change in topic, Saeki flagged down a server and ordered a plate of tempura california rolls and curry along with Fuji's paella. Turning back to his friend as the server left with their menus, Saeki added a little more sugar to his tea. "So, any big breaks on the horizon for you? You've heard mine."
"Nothing much. You know I've been working for them for years. Being hired as a full-time employee doesn't change anything." Fuji took a sip of his tea. "I hope I end up permanently working for one of the travel and leisure mags, though. At least those will give me interesting assignments. I haven't had anything exciting since my Kyoto assignment."
"Well at least you have steady work. I mostly freelance still. The travel assignments are pretty nice though. If you land that, you should let me know. I can point you in the right direction for good guides in some out of the way places." Saeki leaned forward in his seat in mild excitement as he started talking about traveling.
"Mm. I will," Fuji promised. "No new scoop on the personal side, hmm? No trail of broken hearts left behind?" He was only half-teasing, at that. Saeki was always so popular, and it was difficult to imagine none of the girls he met at school or on assignments had made a move. Or boys, for that matter.
Saeki chuckled softly. "Not as such. I've had a few flings here and there. Nothing serious though. What about you? Surely, there are ladies-and perhaps a few men-weeping at the lose of you."
"Only dates, for the last year. The last actual girlfriend was back in Kyoto. I sent you a picture of her once -- the maiko in the blue and yellow kimono?" That had been one of his rare relationships, lasting over five months. Saeki's description of his supposed past exploits made him chuckle. "Oh, don't you start, Sae. I bet you've broken more hearts than I have. I haven't broken any hearts in years. Unless you're talking about the ones who had a new awakening in their sexuality."
"Ah, yeah. I think I remember that one. She was pretty." Saeki grinned at the accusation of being a heartbreaker before quirking an eyebrow at the last part of Fuji's comment. "Oh? Have you turned a few new guys to the 'dark side?' And how hot were they?"
"She was, wasn't she?" Fuji smiled fondly. He'd loved her hands. They were particularly beautiful when she was performing traditional dances. "I wouldn't quite call it turning," Fuji replied demurely, eyes twinkling. "More like...uncovering a hidden potential that was always there. But -- yes, rather hot," he admitted, just a touch of smugness in his voice.
"Hmm, good to know you've helped add fresh blood to the market. And of high quality too. You know, sometimes I'm jealous of you. You have that air of mystery that draws people in, whether they know it or not." Saeki's grin turned mischevious at the smug tone of Fuji's voice.
"Flattery will get you everywhere," returned Fuji with a playful smirk. "As if your charms don't land you fangirls in droves."
"Really now? So that means you're buying today, right? Mr. Steady Job." Saeki teased as the server brought their lunches out. "The problem is that they're fangirls. Maybe if one of them had more depth, I'd be willing to to on more than one or two dates." Sighing dramatically, Saeki picked up his spoon and started in on his curry. "Alas, I'm doomed to wait for someone who is immune to this gallantry you speak of."
"Sure," he replied easily. "And yes, fangirls do have that problem." As for someone immune, there was one who was already immune to all of Saeki's antics and then some. The same someone they were trying to avoid bringing up in their conversation, unfortunately. "Dating isn't that much fun," Fuji said. When he was younger he might have found it fun to date casually. Not anymore.
"It really isn't. Though I almost feel too young to say that some days. We're in the prime of our lives, and we're both already bored with dating. I really don't know if that means there is something wrong with us, or something very right. It could just be that we're that cool." Saeki grinned playfully at his last remark. "How's your lunch?"
Fuji laughed. It was impossible not to, when he was with Saeki. "Oh, definitely because we're just that cool," he said, mirth giving a lilt to his voice. "It's better than I expected. Not quite as spicy, though. Care to try it?"
Saeki considered the offer for a moment before answering. "Sure, why not. You're welcome to try some of my curry if you'd like."
"Thank you." The curry was a bit sweeter than he'd have liked (he actually preferred the real Indian curry with a stronger bite), but not bad at all. "I'm glad I found this place. I love the decor." Come to think of it, a lot of the dishes on the menu were originally from Spain. Perhaps that explained the new exterior, which definitely hinted at influence of Antoni Gaudí architectural hallmarks.
"It is very nice. You chose well, Fuji. I think we might have to come here more often." Saeki had never had the same eye for decor and design that Fuji did, but it never really mattered between them. Thinking to himself for a moment or two, Saeki raised a new topic between them. "So, we've analyzed my lack of a love life, but what about you? I don't think I've gotten a straight answer out of you on that."
Tucking a few flyaway wisps of hair behind his ear, Fuji cocked his head. "Haven't you, now? Looking for straight answers, were you?" There was an amused smile lurking on his lips at the double entendre. He'd certainly never lacked dates, and had a good number of girlfriends (and occasionally, boyfriends) in the past. But he never talked to anyone about his relationships, preferring to keep the information private.
"Why yes, I am. I'd like to know if there's anyone I need to come meet to make sure they're up to snuff. You do deserve only the best after all." Saeki's smile was only half teasing. He really did have high standards on Fuji's behalf, but figured it was only fair. If Fuji was going to be protective of Yuuta, then he deserved to have someone be protective of him as well.
"No one, just yet." Fuji graced him with a warm smile. Just like the time Saeki deliberately lost to Yuuta, and the times Fuji himself took on certain opponents on Yuuta's behalf, the three of them had always looked out for each other since they were little. In some ways, Saeki was more like a brother than a friend. "If I ever find someone, you'll be the first to know," he promised. "And I'd better be the first to know when you do, too, Koujirou."
"Of course you will be, Syuusuke. Though I'm sure we both know who I'm hoping for." Saeki smiled warmly at his oldest friend. Growing up with Fuji and Yuuta had been like having two brothers who slept at a different house, and he missed that closeness quite often.
"At least I can't fault you for your tastes," Fuji quipped lightly, but his eyes still held understanding. They were nearly done with their food. But it was still early, and they didn't get to spend time together that often anymore. Hmm. "Do you want to go for a movie after?"
At the offer to go to a movie, Saeki perked up just a bit. "Sure! We could go see the new Kamen Rider movie." He knew he was showing his inner geek, but Saeki trusted Fuji to not laugh at him for it.
Fuji had to bite his lip not to laugh. Sometimes, Saeki was just too cute for words. "If you'd like." He signaled for the waiter, who approached with the bill. Before Saeki could make a grab for it, he snapped up the bill and handed it back to the waiter with enough money to cover their meals and a little bit of tip. It wasn't really customary to tip in Japan, but Fuji had grown up seeing his parents do it all the time, so the habit of tipping came naturally to him.
"Shall we go?"
Sticking his tongue out at Fuji for stealing the ticket, Saeki gathered his things and stood. "Sure. But just for that, the movie is on me. and I won't let you argue it."
Fuji merely laughed at the display, and followed. "I wouldn't dream of it."