Fic: Are you ready?

[cloversworld]

Should I delete this so people in their right minds won't see it?

Title: Are you Ready?
Author: clover71
Fandom: American Idol x Uta no Prince-sama crossover
Pairing: Cookleta
Rating: PG
Word Count: 9565
Description: Written for the word prompt 'rain' and 'celebratory kiss'
Warning: Contains immense silliness and cheesy scenes and this is probably the most absurd fic idea ever.
Summary: After returning from his mission, David plans to go back to the music scene in his own pace but an offer to open for a foreign boy band shakes him out of his core.
Disclaimer:
Please note that this is purely fiction and none of the contents are real except for some of the characters used in this story. And I do not own Uta no Prince-sama and its characters, copyright remains with its creator.

Author's Note(s):
- Okay, this is a rather pointless story. I just needed to write something to get back into the writing groove because there are tons of non-cookleta fics I need to finish for challenges. With deadlines. And I can't bring myself to write a sentence. So this came to mind and I thought I might as well pour all the absurd ideas running through my head into paper, so to speak.

- This was supposed to be merely a writing exercise, but I always write with a purpose so I thought I might as well write it for the prompts chosen by pixie_queen24 from my 12_stories table ('rain') and my old trope bingo card ('celebratory kiss') last year. I'm not even using this fic as an entry. I merely wrote it in response to the request.

- Also, I'm trying to get back into writing Cookleta. My interest on the pairing dwindled over the years because I was blindsided, distracted and hijacked by new fandoms and new pairings (Don't even get me started with RinHaru of Free! and RenMasa of Uta no Prince-sama). I knew that somehow, the only way to get me writing is if it's a crossover with my current fandom so this story took shape in my head. It's pretty difficult crossing an RPF (let's pretend that 'F' stands for fandom) with an anime fandom because it's reality versus… well, you'll get what I mean.

- This is Archie-centric, so there's no way I'm posting this in any of the communities hosting Uta no Prince-sama. In case anyone is curious who STARISH is, you can check THIS out. If there are songs mentioned or described in the story, try placing your mouse pointer over the word or phrase and see if there are links because I will be placing links to the songs since I suck at descriptions.

- Not beta'ed and not re-read. So please be kind not to pay any heed to any mistakes. If the grammar is off in dialogues spoken by any members of STARISH, that would be deliberate since I'm trying to deliver it in a way a Japanese who isn't fluent in the English language would speak. Something like that.

- Lastly, the title comes from this, LOLOL.


START

The sudden burst of lights blinds him, his vision somehow dyed in seven colors, each shade encompassing another like prism glittering against a backdrop of white.

Then music blooms across the stadium, filling his heart and stirring something dormant in his soul.

At that moment, David doesn't regret the decision he has made - to not stand at the center of the spotlight and be a guiding beam instead, to open up the curtains to someone else and stand aside to watch a new rainbow shine.

And Cook… Cook has always been there behind him, beside him, holding his hand and offering encouraging words.

*

Four months earlier…

The weather doesn't do anything to change his mood but he welcomes the sound of the rain, nonetheless, pouring like liquid crystals against the concrete ground outside of the café.

"You still with me?" The voice makes him jerk a little, snapping him out of his reverie, and he lets his eyes slide from the window to the man sitting in front of him, hazel eyes boring into his own. "You're spacing out again, Arch."

"Sorry," is all he says and he lifts the glass of orange juice to his lips to hide the fact that he doesn't know what to say next.

Cook doesn't utter anything, just watches him like he's trying to read David's mind.

"Thanks for coming to see me, by the way," David says and he's pretty much aware that he has probably said the same phrase for a dozen times in the past hour.

A hint of concern surfaces on Cook's eyes. "Of course, Arch. You sounded troubled when you called so I had to come."

David just shakes his head, silently berating himself for calling Cook earlier and having him drive to Murray on his break. "I don't know why I'm making such a big deal out of it. Sorry you had to come all this way."

"Hey." Cook reaches out suddenly, his hand covering David's. The warmth of Cook's palm is in contrast with the cold surface of the table. "It's okay. I was just in Sandy anyway. And I had nothing else to do since the composer I was supposed to meet with is down with a fever right now so."

David stares at their joint hands, recalling how Cook's touches always soothe him in more ways than one. "I was hoping to take things slow, you know. I do miss being on stage, but I don't feel like it's the right time. Even if I'm just opening up a show for someone else."

"Well." Cook pulls his hand back and picks up his own drink, says, "The decision still lies with you, Arch. Just listen to your heart and follow your instincts," before taking a sip.

"I just wish he'd stopped meddling with my career," comes out of his mouth before David can stop himself. Dang filters aren't working these days.

"You mean your dad?" Cook cocks his head a little to the side. "I wish I could say that he's only looking out for your best interest but I honestly don't know anything. At least he's giving you the reins to decide for yourself. He probably just wants you to get back on track or maybe ease back into performing."

"Yeah. But to be a front act? And to a boy band no less? Not that I have anything against boy bands. If they have the same passion for music as I do, then I'll be glad to do it. But… I don't know." Archie takes a bite of his sandwich to hide his frustration. He doesn't want to show any attitude right now, not to Cook and not after being away from this man for two years.

"What? Are you afraid they'll outshine you?" There's clearly a lilt of teasing in the way Cook said that, quite effective in making David almost choke on a piece of bread in his mouth.

"O-of course not! I…" Was that the reason? David wonders himself. But of course, it isn't. It's just that jumping back into the limelight isn't part of his immediate plans.

Cook's soft laughter sends heat on David's cheeks. "I was only kidding, you know. Look, Arch. Why don't you check out this boy band first, see how you feel about opening up to them or whatever. Who did you say they were?"

"STARISH. They're from Japan. Jazzy knows about them. She's been nagging me to take the project."

"Starish? Well that's quite a boy band-y name, all right. Are they any good?" Cook doesn't look like he's only pretending to be interested. There's this sparkle in his eyes that inspires David somehow.

"I don't know, haven't really heard any of their songs or seen them perform." David pulls out his iPad from his bag. "Kari did send me a few of their songs and some videos of their performances. Wanna listen to them together?"

Cook shrugs a shoulder. "Sure. Looks like we're stuck in here anyway."

David slides his finger on the screen, tapping on a folder then on a video file with a title 'Mirai Chizu'. A soft blend of melody floats from the device, entwining like water and oil and then voices intermingling in a remarkable harmony fill David's chest with immeasurable awe. He hardly notices the language that's completely alien to his ears. The song is enough to begin molding his resolve.

*

It's been a whirlwind month of contract signing and debriefing and lots and lots of meeting and another couple of months of frantic preparation and all until David finds himself sauntering into the lobby of Beverly Wilshire.

"David!" Kari is by the front desk with her hand raised, beckoning him over. "I'm sorry I had to send someone else to pick you up at the airport," she starts the moment David is close enough to hear her. "I had to go through some last minute details with the boys' road manager earlier."

"It's okay," David says, adjusting the strap of his carry-on bag while settling his wheeled suitcase beside him. "But did you really have to send Cook of all people? I mean, I've bothered him enough for the past month."

"Well, he volunteered."

"So I did." Cook appears behind him with a rolling luggage in tow.

David eyes the bag for a second then his gaze snaps back to Cook's face. "Wait. Are you staying here too?"

Cook gives a sharp nod. "Uhuh. Been asked to handle the arrangement of your set."

"By whom?" David holds back in adding, And why wasn't I informed? because he doesn't want to sound so anal about this.

"By me," Kari pipes in. "And your dad. Seeing as Dave has been in most of the meetings, your dad figured he might as well contribute something to this project. With Dave's permission, of course."

David watches Cook with a bit of scrutiny. "You're not planning to be a mother hen and watch over me, are you?"

Cook appears to look appalled. He presses a hand on his chest, says, "Who me? Mother hen is so not fitting for my image, Archuleta," in an overly dramatic way that makes David roll his eyes.

"Let's get settled in our rooms first," Kari says, handing each of them a card.

"They do speak English, don't they? These Japanese group, I mean," Cook asks on their way to the elevators. "Or do they have someone like a translator?"

"Well I haven't met the boys yet, but according to their acting road manager, they all speak English since they were required to take one-on-one lessons the moment they heard they're having a show here in the U.S.," Kari explains. "Not all of them are fluent though. I think only three of them are more proficient than the others."

"I guess that solves the language barrier, at least," Cook says, dragging his bag into an elevator after David.

Someone else comes into the lift with them, someone David feels like he's seen somewhere. Then he recalls the files containing STARISH's data that Kari has showed him a few weeks back and this guy with them resembles one of the boys. He remembers staring into the picture of the young man with dark blue wavy hair and blue eyes, remembers Kari's words.

"That's Ichinose Tokiya," Kari says, tapping on the edge of the folder that David's holding. "He's eighteen and has been in the show business since he was a child. That's why he speaks English well. He was taught how to when he had to play a role on a movie made for television. He was known as Hayato back then. He quit being Hayato a couple of years ago and decided to make his second debut in the music industry under his real name."

The young man - Tokiya - turns to David and catches him staring. Tokiya's eyes are as sharp as they are in the picture, and there's an undeniable cold glare behind it that makes David's skin prickle. Then as if a switch has been flicked, the coldness melted into a soft gaze and a small smile curves on Tokiya's lips. "Hello," he says, bowing his head a little. "Ohayou gozaimasu."

"Ohayou gozaimasu," David echoes and thank goodness that his sister Jazzy has taken the liberty to study the Japanese language so David somehow knows it means 'Good morning.'

The elevator door slides open at the eight floor and Tokiya steps out, raises his hand, saying, "Ja. Matane," then he turns but pauses, as if he realizes something, and looks over his shoulder to add, "I mean, see ya!"

*

Usually, David unpacks right away whenever he settles into a hotel room, but there's a surge of energy flowing through him right now that he just needs to burn so he decides to take a walk downstairs. He's strolling around the lobby when he bumps into someone and he catches a flash of fiery red hair through the corner of his eye.

David almost loses his balance until a strong hand grabs his arm. "Sumimasen," the guy with red hair says and when David turns his head, he's met with a pair of crimson eyes. "Daijobu desu ka?" The guy frowns a little, then, as if with difficulty, says, "Are… are you okay?"

A sense of recognition hits David and he remembers seeing this guy in a picture as well.

"The red-haired one is Ittoki Otoya. I was told he doesn't mind being called by his first name, but following Japanese tradition, I suggest you call him by last name first," Kari elucidates. "He's seventeen and unlike Tokiya, he's not too fluent in English. But I hear he's a fast learner."

"Yes. I'm fine," David says.

"Otoya!" A shorter guy wearing a fedora hat bounds over to them. "Doushita no?"

David is quick to recognize the newcomer. He remembers finding his looks rather eye-catching, what with those pink highlights on his light blond hair.

"The shortest one of the group is Kurusu Syo. Like Otoya, he's seventeen. But mind you, he doesn't like people saying something about his height," Kari points out. "Also not fluent in English, I hear."

David stares at the two teenagers conversing in a foreign language before the red-haired one - Otoya - turns to him, bows and says, "I am sorry for bumping you." He straightens up and gives David a toothy grin. "I see pictures of you. You are Archuleta-san, ne?"

The shorter one - Syo - likewise bends forward, saying, "Hajimemashite. Nice to meet you."

Uncertain of what to do, David just mirrors them and takes a bow. 'Nice to meet you, too. Please, call me David, Ittoki-kun, Kurusu-kun." He mentally gives himself a pat on the back for remembering their names and not butchering it and for not forgetting to add honorifics.

"Hai. David-san."

He's tempted to tell them to just call him David without the honorifics but… he'll leave it at that for the meantime.

"Otoya-kun! Syo-chan!" A blond guy wearing glasses hollers from the other side of the lobby, waving at the two boys in front of David. "Hayaku!"

"Mata ne. See you later, David-san!" Otoya says then runs off to where the blond guy is waiting.

"Matte, Otoya!" Syo rushes after his red-haired friend.

Another picture flashes in David's mind, one that resembles that guy with glasses, and Kari's words echoes in his head.

"Shinomiya Natsuki is the eldest in the group, he's nineteen, but I hear he's the most carefree and childlike. He grew up in France, until he was about five, I think. He speaks English well, but according to his manager, since he hasn't had any need to speak the language for so long, he seems less adept in it than Tokiya, or… Ichinose-kun. Gosh, David, we have to get used to using honorifics."

"You seriously didn't just leave without me," someone says behind him, startling David out of his musing. He doesn't have to turn to know that it's Cook though.

"I was just taking a stroll," David says, facing Cook. "Are we supposed to head to the meeting now? I've already met three of the boys, informally that is."

"Nah. It's still early. But if you want to find the conference room, we can do that now. I'm not too familiar with this hotel."

"Okay."

It's not that hard to find the function room. All they need to do is ask. Since they're there, they decide to get inside, anyway, and David's surprised to find two guys in the room. One has long blond hair and the other has straight, blue hair, and David recalls seeing their profiles as well.

"Jinguji Ren is… how do I put it?... a rich kid," Kari says. "He's the third son of the head of the Jinguji conglomerate. He used to travel the world a lot with his parents when he was little, so he's multilingual and, according to the group's manager, he speaks English considerably well."

She hands him another folder. "This is Hijirikawa Masato. Oh boy, his name is a mouthful, isn't it? Also a rich kid, an heir to the Hijirikawa Financial Group in Japan. But his passion for music burns hot so he chose to walk this path of an idol instead. Also speaks English, not sure how well though. Mr. Hyuga didn't mention it."

"Good morning," Ren says, sliding his feet off the conference table. "You're David Archuleta, right?" He gets up and holds out his hand. "Ryuga-san has briefed us about you. I'm Jinguji. Jinguji Ren."

David shakes his hand then introduces Cook as part of his team. To be honest, he doesn't really know what Cook's supposed to be, let alone what he's supposed to do. But it's giving him this nostalgic feeling that it's like… well, it's like American Idol summer tour all over again.

The other guy gets up and bows, saying, "I'm Hijirikawa Masato. Nice to meet you."

The two guys David met earlier saunters in with Shinomiya Natsuki in tow. Otoya says something in Japanese but Masato is quick to berate him, in Japanese first, then he's kind enough to say something in English. "It is impolite to speak in a language when there are others in the room who don't understand."

"Sumimasen. I am sorry, David-san," Otoya says and David tells him that it's fine then proceeds to introduce Cook.

"You guys are early." Ichinose Tokiya enters the room with a certain air around him that David can't seem to place his finger on. Ren starts to introduce David but Tokiya interrupts, saying, "We've met."

"Well," Ren turns his gaze on David, "there's just the six of us right now. Our seventh member who will be debuting at the concert should be arriving tomorrow. He had to go back to his home country to ask permission from his father."

David knows that. Kari did mention a seventh member who is actually a prince and he couldn't help but think back then if he's still living in the real world.

*

They move into a large house in Los Angeles two days later. The place has enough rooms for everyone and there are several practice rooms as well. When he learns that the members of STARISH will be rooming together since they're used to it back in Japan, David thinks that it's only fair for him to share a room with someone as well. He ends up sharing a room with Cook.

"I'm excited, you excited?" Cook says, landing on his butt on one of the beds. "We haven't been in a show together since… was it 2009? In Manila."

"You're not going to be in this show, Cook. It'll just be me and the boys. You're just," David waves his hand in an attempt to find the words, "I don't know… helping out?"

"At least we'll be working together." Cook lies down with his arms behind his head, eyes trained on the ceiling. "Been hoping for something like this since you came back from your mission, you know. 'Cause I missed you, Arch."

Something blossomed in David's chest and he realizes how much he misses this man with him as well. I missed you too, is what he wants to say in return but what comes out instead is, "Let's do our best then, Cook."

Later, David's been given an assignment to write two new songs for the concert, which he struggles to work on for the next three days. Now he understands why Cook's around. Cook's been a big help with the arrangement. What he doesn't understand is why he has to release two new songs.

"Consider it a message to your fans that you're starting out fresh," is what Cook has told him, but still.

Unable to squeeze a string of words out of his head, he decides to take a stroll out in the garden. It's close to dinner time anyway, and instead of getting interrupted from working on a song, it's best to relax a little.

The ambiance is calming enough outside. He can hear a guitar playing from one of the rooms upstairs and he wonders if it's Otoya or Cook. Judging from the melody and how careful the strumming seems, he guesses that it's Otoya. Tokiya is probably resting in the room with him. David has discovered that Otoya does his best not to be too loud when Tokiya is around.

When he reaches the area near the pond, he hears bantering so he looks through the window to find Masato and Ren working in the kitchen (David remembers being amazed the first time he learned how these two rich kids love to cook and are the ones who usually prepare their meals back home if their schedules allow it) and in the middle of their usual argument. Otoya had told him the other day not to mind them since those two are only suffering from unresolved sexual tension, which sets David's imagination to run wild. He feels his cheeks heat up from the memory.

"David."

David jumps, startled at the sound of the voice. He sees no one around. Only when he hears rustling from the tree nearby did he chance to look up and find Aijima Cecil, STARISH's seventh member, sitting on the branch. His dark skin and dark hair serve as a camouflage in the dimly lit area.

"Cecil. What are you doing up there?"

"It calms me to be up on a tree," Cecil says. He leaps down on the ground with ease. "Your boyfriend was looking for you earlier. Have you seen him yet?"

"Boyfriend?" What the heck? Is Cecil seriously talking to him? Barely one week with these guys and David feels like he knows them enough so he's aware how Cecil sometimes gets confused with how people are related to each other. He refers to Masato and Ren as a couple, like he does with Tokiya and Otoya, as well as Natsuki and Syo, while David thinks Cecil probably means roommates. Maybe?

"Yes. Boyfriend. Dave? Or you call him Cook? He was looking for you earlier," Cecil says in a matter-of-fact way.

"Um Cecil. He's not my boy-"

Deep, hollow sound of strings spirals out of one of the practice rooms. The melody - sharp and aggressive in a way - curls around David, causing chills to pop out of his skin. "That's…"

"A violin. That can only be Syo playing. Natsuki also plays but he's more into the viola. Syo plays with a certain stress on some notes. Oh!" Cecil starts to move toward the back door. "I almost forgot. It's my turn to set the table. See you at dinner, David."

Cecil disappears inside before he can even offer to help. David is tempted to head over to the practice room but he's not sure if it will be impolite to just barge in and watch Syo play. Instead, he settles on one of the concrete benches in the garden so he can just listen.

"Beautiful, isn't it?"

David is startled out of his trance once more. What is it with people sneaking up behind him anyway? Or is it his fault for spacing out half the time?

Cook slides next to him and gazes up at the sky. "That kid - Syo - he's really talented, isn't he? I hear he's been winning violin competitions when he was little. Natsuki too. Have you heard him play the viola?" David shakes his head in response and Cook says, "Oh right. You were out yesterday when he played Vitali's Chaconne. It was breathtaking."

There's a light in Cook's eyes that David realizes he had missed seeing, the light that radiates off of Cook whenever he talks about music.

"Hey, you two lovebirds, it's time for dinner," Ren calls out through the window.

David is about to say something in their defense but Cook beats him to it when he yells back, "Yeah. We'll be right there."

*

Cook has to fly to Nashville the next day leaving David to see the two new songs into completion. He's in one of the piano rooms, tinkering on the keys, when Natsuki ambles inside.

"Ano ne," he says, scratching his jaw with a finger.

"What is it Shinomiya-kun?" David prompts when Natsuki doesn't say anything else.

"Are you busy, David-senpai?" Natsuki comes closer, a sheet music in hand.

"Not really. I'm done with one song so I thought I'd give my mind a break. Do you need help with anything?"

"I have to rehearse one of my solo songs." Natsuki hides his hands behind him, sheet music and all, and he starts rocking on the balls of his feet. "It's a new song I recently wrote. Our composer, Haru-chan, usually does the piano accompaniment when I practice, but she's not with us and Masato-kun is practicing on his own, so I was wondering…"

"If I can play for you? Sure." David holds out his hand, silently asking for the sheet music, which Natsuki hands him, reluctantly, it seems. He glances at the piece, glad that they're written in notes he understands, at least, and Natsuki is kind enough to write the lyrics in Romaji, other than Kanji. David begins to play the chords. "Tell me if I have the right tempo, okay?"

Once David has gotten used to the flow of the music, which he mentally notes was absolutely beautiful, he prompts Natsuki to start singing. And when Natsuki belts out the first line, something that sounds like, "Anata no tame boku wa utau," David's jaw drops at how powerful and strong and solid Natsuki's voice is.

The song is probably five minutes long and though David doesn't understand the language, he can feel the words in his heart. When it's over, he's left with emotions swirling in his chest. 'That was amazing, Shinomiya-kun. You have a beautiful voice."

"Arigatou, senpai." Natsuki gives a soft laugh, almost close to a giggle, which David finds endearing. His green eyes glisten behind his glasses. "Um… you can call me Natsuki."

"Okay, Natsuki." This somehow makes David's heart swell. Natsuki isn't the first to give permission to be addressed by his first name. Otoya and Syo had asked the same thing the other day. Cecil didn't mind from the start.

"When is Cook-san coming back?" Natsuki asks and David thinks that came out of left field somehow.

"Not sure. The weekend I guess." Truth is, he hasn't spoken to Cook and David's reluctant to bother the man by calling him.

"You and Cook-san are close, aren't you?"

"We go a long way back, to our American Idol days." David's not sure if he should tell the whole story or just leave it at that and when Natsuki doesn't prompt for him to elaborate, he internally sighs in relief.

Natsuki settles on the other end of the piano bench, says, "You like each other, ne?" and David almost falls off while in the process of sliding further to the opposite side to make room.

Yes, of course, is on the tip of his tongue, but David thinks twice this time, knowing that these boys tend to misinterpret certain English phrases. "Define like."

Soft giggles flutter out of Natsuki's mouth once more. "Like he's fond of you and you are fond of him," he says. "Everyone sees it, the way you look at one another."

"They do?" David hopes that this is just Natsuki having wrong choice of words, but Natsuki seems to have a stronger grasp of English now that David doubts that's the case.

"Uhuh. Sou desu." Natsuki nods, the corners of his eyes crinkling as he smiles.

David can't help but wonder just what is it with these guys and their false impressions about him and Cook. First, Cecil, then Ren and now Natsuki.

*

It's not the light snoring - or lack thereof - that wakes David up earlier than usual. Though he has to admit that it's quite disconcerting not to hear the noises Cook normally makes when asleep now that David has gotten used to it. But… but it's not like he's missing Cook or anything. Absolutely not.

What nudges him to full consciousness is the sound of someone vocalizing outside.

David slides out of bed then peers out of his window, glad that their room overlooks the garden. There, along the pathway lined with lavender bushes, is Tokiya, eyes closed, mouth open and his voice undulating in the air.

Struck with a sudden inspiration, David doesn't go back to bed. Instead, he does his morning ritual of washing his face and brushing his teeth then, deciding to go running, he throws on a pair of track pants and a t-shirt.

When he gets to the lower level, he can still hear Tokiya's voice. Singing properly this time. In English. Curious, David makes his way to the garden and when close enough, he recognizes the song right away.

Tokiya is singing 'Amazing Grace.' His voice is like a soft breeze in a spring morning that caresses David's skin in soft gentle strokes. So gentle like cherry blossom petals bathed in dew and dancing with the wind. His singing carries certain feelings that digs deep within David's being, nudging him, pulling something out of him.

Before David can stop himself, he's singing along, the second verse of the song spilling out of his mouth. Tokiya stops for a while to stare at David and David hesitates to go on. But he does and so Tokiya resumes singing after David belts out a couple of lines, their voices floating across the courtyard.

Once they reach the chorus one more time, other voices join in, singing, "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound. That saved a wretch like me." David spots Ren and Masato out in the balcony of their room. Natsuki and Cecil are looking out the window from one of the practice rooms. Otoya and Syo are standing at the veranda, both wearing track pants as well.

Something blossoms in David's chest, moved by the harmony that soars in the open space, the song having more impact to him now that he's singing it with the boys.

When the song is over, Syo says, "Sugoi. You really have an amazing voice, David-senpai," while descending down the stairs with Otoya behind him.

"I can say the same thing to you guys. You are all awesome." David turns to face Tokiya, finding the need to praise him. "You have such a heartfelt way of singing, Tokiya. I was really moved."

Tokiya's eyes widen for a second. Then he smiles - soft and seemingly timid. "Thank you, David-san."

"You look like you're dressed to go running, David-senpai." It's Otoya who points out the obvious. "Syo and I are thinking of running also."

"Otoya." Tokiya crosses his arms over his chest. "What did I tell you about going out on your own? You might get lost."

"If David-senpai will come with us…" Otoya starts, scratching his jaw with a finger.

"I don't mind. I can sure use some company," David says in an instant.

"Hey, you guys. If you're going out for a run, wait for me," Ren hollers from the upstairs bedroom and he disappears inside with Masato.

A while later, they all meet up at the front porch, with David, Otoya and Syo warming up and doing some stretches.

Masato's saying something in Japanese, to which Ren responds with, "I'll be fine Hijirikawa. You worry too much."

"Well last time you went running, you ended up sick the whole day," Masato says, hands on his hips.

"Because I went running in the rain, remember. The weather looks good, so I'm sure I'll be fine," Ren says, then plants a kiss on Masato's cheeks. "I won't be long, Masayan."

Masato just huffs or makes some derisive sound in return.

"Now Otoya, we have dance rehearsals later so don't overdo it as well." Tokiya speaks this time. "And bring a bottle of water so you won't get dehydrated."

"Yes, Tokiya, I have," Otoya shows the sports bottle hanging against his hip.

"Syo-chan, do you have a towel with you? Make sure you wipe off your sweat, okay." Natsuki, on the other hand, has been doting on Syo for the past five minutes.

David can't help but be amused at how Natsuki, Tokiya and Masato seem to mother their roommates. He remembers Cook saying something like how he thinks those boys are more than just friends and roommates, but David doesn't want to dwell on that because. Well, dang, now he misses Cook more.

"I bet you miss Dave," Cecil says close to David's ear.

"What?" is all David manages to utter.

"Senpai. Are you coming along?" Syo has already started down the driveway, big baby blue eyes looking up at David with obvious anticipation.

"Yeah. Let's go." David leads the way, with Ren beside him and Syo and Otoya behind them.

*

The next day, David goes out to have lunch with some friends in L.A. and when he returns to the house, he's immediately drawn to the sound of electric guitar - or more like guitars - so he follows it and finds Cook in the den with Otoya, who have both just finished playing.

"Hey, you're just in time," Cook says when he spots David. "Otoya is about to play one of his songs."

David settles on one of the couches. "When did you get back?" he asks Cook.

"Just a couple hours ago," Cook says, his back to David because he's busy adjusting the amplifier.

Ren and Masato join them not a minute later, just before Cook and Otoya started strumming.

So that's what they were practicing earlier, David thinks when the same melody he heard earlier fills the room. Then Otoya starts singing, the energy flowing out of him so strong that David can actually feel it against his skin.

And Cook. He's really awesome playing the guitar. Though David has been in Cook's concert in Utah not too long ago, it's still refreshing every time David sees him perform.

Ren leans closer to David, says, "Can't take your eyes off him, ne?" with that silly smirk plastered on his face and mischief reflected on his blue eyes.

David knows Ren is referring to Cook but he's so not going to give Ren the satisfaction so he says, "You mean Otoya?"

"I was referring to Cookie." Ren shifts back, moving closer to Masato who's on his other side.

"Has he even heard you call him Cookie?" David asks, his voice drowning in the music but he knows it's loud enough for Ren to hear.

It's Masato who responds though. "He has but it's not like Cook-senpai can do anything about it. Once Ren gives you a pet name, it stays as is."

"Yeah. I've kinda realized that." David has been trying to stop Ren from calling him 'kawaikochan,' especially when he learned it means 'cutie,' but… to no avail.

Wordless seconds pass and when the song hits the bridge where Cook and Otoya just keep strumming chord after chord, Ren turns to David once more. "He likes you a lot. You know that, don't you, Kawaikochan?"

"Like a brother," is David's quick return.

"I think it's more than that."

"Jinguji. Leave him alone," Masato butts in, his voice holds a certain firmness that seems to work on keeping Ren silent until the end of Otoya's song.

*

"I'm sorry for Jinguji's behavior earlier." Masato strides into the kitchen while David's rummaging inside the refrigerator in search for some juice. It seems they have an abundant stock of barley tea. "He just loves to tease people, you see."

"I knew that. And I don't mind either."

"You hungry, Senpai?" Masato pulls out some box out of the pantry. "I can make us some okonomiyaki."

"It's okay, Hijirikawa-kun." David bites on the inside of his lower lip for almost stammering on the name. "I had lunch with some friends earlier."

Masato slides the box back inside the cabinet. "How about some hot tea?"

"Yes please. That would awesome." David grabs a bottle of water instead then settles on one of the chairs while watching Masato fill the electric kettle with water. "Where did you learn to cook, by the way?"

"I took lessons when I was thirteen." Masato opens the cabinet once more and takes out a can of tea bags. "My mom got sick and was too weak to move around, so I thought I should learn housework and cooking and sewing to help her. I know we had servants to do that, but I thought if I can do it myself, why rely on someone else to do it for you?"

David has to hand it to this guy. Masato's only eighteen but he's probably more mature and grown up than David is.

Ren appears on the doorway. "Oh there you are. Ichi, Ochibi-can, Ikki, Cookie and I are going to watch a movie. You guys want to join us?"

"Thanks Ren, but I was thinking on working on my song," David says then turns to Masato. "If you'd like to join them…"

Masato shakes his head. "Iie. I have to rehearse my solo part for the show as well."

"You guys work too hard," Ren says. "Ja. We'll be in the audio-visual room in case you change your mind."

David makes a mental note that by Ichi, Ren means Tokiya and if David remembers correctly, Ren calls Syo 'Ochibi-chan' and Ikki is Otoya and Cookie, of course, is Cook. Ren's name-calling can sometimes give David a headache.

"You and Ren seem pretty close, huh?" David says just to start a conversation and not to pry. Well, not exactly. "How long have you been roommates?"

"Since we went to Saotome Academy." Masato takes out two ceramic cups from the cabinet and places a tea bag in each. "But Ren and I go a long way back. We're childhood friends, actually."

"I see." David watches Masato pour hot water in each cup. "Saotome Academy. That's the performance arts school you all went to, right? I remember Otoya telling me that's where you all met. Except for Cecil."

"Sou da ne. I mean, that is correct." Masato hands David a steaming cup, the tea's pleasant aroma tickling David's nose. "Ano. You can call me Masato. I think I'm the only one who hasn't given you permission to call me by first name."

"Okay. Masato it is." David is actually relieved to hear that. Masato's last name makes his tongue twist for some reason.

"What about you and Cook? You seem pretty close," Masato says in between blowing on his tea.

"Cook and I were in American Idol together. Have you heard of that show?" When Masato nods, David goes on, saying, "That was back in 2008 so we've known each other for six years now."

Masato takes the seat across David, his gaze falling on his own cup. "That's not what I meant." Then Masato shakes his head, his blue eyes meeting David's. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to meddle. But, what Ren said earlier… Um, never mind. Forget I said anything."

David can't help but wonder what these boys are seeing that he himself doesn't.

*

There's something gloomy about having rain on a Monday morning. David's standing by the window, watching the precipitation fall like crystal curtain. Cook's beside him, his back on the window and eyes in the room, watching the boys with the glow of awe on his face.

From behind David, he can hear the enchanting shrill of Syo's violin, the gentle hum of Natsuki's viola, the sonorous tune from Ren's saxophone, the alluring whistle of Cecile's flute, the mellow timbre of Otoya's guitar, the lovely tingle from the xylophone Tokiya's playing and the mesmerizing melody spun by Masato's fingers dancing on the piano keys with expert ease.

The boys have been given the day off to rest their voices, but no one can pry them away from music so they have opted to play their instruments instead. They're playing the instrumental version of their song whose title escapes David's head. The only word he remembers is 'symphony.'

The music makes the ambiance less depressing, and the boys' harmony, even in playing instruments, warms David's heart. A hand - Cook's, no doubt, since he's the only one beside David - closes in on his own, fingers tangling with his.

David gets the silent message, can almost hear Cook saying, Don't be so down, I'm here. I'm with you all the way.

*

It's close to midnight but it seems some of the boys are having trouble sleeping, someone who plays the violin in particular. David can hear the eloquent sound of strings spiraling from the den and he assumes that it's Syo playing.

The music stops when he leaves the kitchen with a bottle of water and he has one foot on the stairs, on his way up to his room, when it starts again, this time, dissonance drifting down the hallway instead of the enchanting sound.

David cringes at the ear-splitting noise and he moves toward the den to find out if something has happened to Syo. Perhaps, he injured a finger or two. When he enters the room though, he finds Cook on the couch, violin tucked between his chin and shoulder and bow in hand, sliding it recklessly across the strings. It sounds like nails on a chalkboard or a saw against rusty metal.

"Cook, what the-" David fights the urge to cover his ears.

"Konban wa, Senpai," Syo says. "Cook-san says he wants to learn to play the violin, so I'm teaching him."

"Oh." David's eyes spring over to Cook. "I don't think you're any close to learning, Cook. Not that I'm a good judge of violin playing, but."

"Why don't you just come out and say what you're thinking, Arch. You think I'm terrible at this." Cook presses a hand on his chest like he would when being overly dramatic. "You hurt me deep, Archuleta."

David huffs a laugh and waves a hand in front of him. "That's not exactly what I meant. Well, you've just started to learn. And you're familiar with the string instrument. So I guess a little more practice and you'll get it?"

Cook rolls his eyes. "Nice try, Arch. But this isn't easy as I thought." His gaze shifts over to Syo. "You're pretty good, Syo-chan. How long have you been playing?"

"Since I was about five," Syo says, sounding really humble about it. "That's how I met Natsuki. We were in a lot of competitions together."

"Speaking of Natsuki." Cook hands the violin over to Syo, holding it out horizontally as if he's handling an infant. "I'm pretty sure you're roommate is waiting for you upstairs. So I won't keep you here. You need to get some rest as well since sound check starts tomorrow."

"Thank you , Cook-san." Syo places the violin back in the case with gentle ease.

"No, Syo-chan. Thank you," Cook says and when Syo looks up at him with question in his eyes, Cook adds, "You know. For the impromptu lesson."

"You are welcome, Cook-san." Syo grabs his violin case, lifts his hand and says, "Well. I'll see you in the morning, Cook-san. Oyasumi, David-senpai."

"Good night, Syo," David says in return. When Syo disappears down the hallway, he turns to Cook, one eyebrow raised. "Syo-chan?"

Cook shrugs. "Well, that's how Natsuki calls him, so I sort of got into the habit of calling him Syo-chan, too. Doesn't look like he minds it."

"Whatever." David starts to head over to the doorway. "Aren't you going to bed yet?"

A devious smile spreads across Cook's lips. "Is that an invitation, Arch?"

"In your dreams, David Cook." David leaves him, feeling his heart pound against his chest. If there's one thing he can't handle still, it's Cook's insinuations.

*

The weather has improved over the past four days and David hopes there won't be any rain until tomorrow because… well, because tomorrow is the concert.

He's more excited in seeing the boys on stage more than his own performance, actually. He hasn't seen the boys perform. They always rehearse on the venue on separate occasions. He's heard them sing countless times, has seen them practice their choreography, but he hasn't seen them perform on stage.

His mind's whirling with possible scenarios tomorrow that David burst into his bedroom without much thought and his heart stopped beating the moment his eyes land on Cook, who's um… well, naked with only a towel around his waist.

It's not like this is the first time he's seen Cook like this. This was a common occurrence back in the American Idol summer tour days. But… but…

His eyes traced the curves of Cook's arms, the bulge of his muscles, the contours of his shoulders down his chest and-

"Are you seriously ogling me, Archuleta?" Cook's voice yanks David back to reality.

"Um." Look away! Look away! A voice at the back of David's head cries out but David can't tear his eyes off of Cook for some reason. "Uh… N-no. I…"

Cook barks a laugh, knocking some sense into David's befuddled mind. "I was only teasing, Arch. Close the door and turn around. Let me just get dressed. Won't take long."

"Why are you changing inside the room, anyway? You usually do that in the bathroom," David says, trying not to sound too awkward.

"You really wanna know?"

"No."

Cook laughs again. "You can look now, Arch. I'm done."

When David does turn, he finds Cook dressed in jeans and his usual black T-shirt. The only difference is the print has white silhouettes of seven boys and the name STARISH above it. "I see you've become a fan."

"Ryuya gave it to me." When David furrows his brows, Cook quickly adds, "Hyuga Ryuya. The boys' road manager?"

"Oh." There's something about Hyuga-san - an aura of sorts - that seems so vast that David can't bring himself to call the man by his first name.

"He left one for you, too." Cook points at David's bed where a folded shirt lay.

"Awesome." David grabs the shirt and holds it out in front of him.

"Why don't you wear that now so we'll be like couple shirts," Cook suggests.

"Uh, no. I think I'll wear it tomorrow. Besides, I'm already dressed and-" Music blasts out from David's phone, filling the room with STARISH's voices singing 'Rainbow Dream.'

"I see you've become a fan." A smirk stretches across Cook's face.

David turns to Cook as soon as he gets off the phone. "That's Kari. She says our ride is already up front."

"Are the boys back from their sound check?" Cook asks while slipping his shoes on.

David shakes his head. "Tokiya called earlier to tell me that they'll head straight to the mall afterwards to do some shopping. He said Masato's worried we won't have anything for lunch. I told him we'll be going to the venue anyway and there's catered food there."

"Tokiya and Masato. Ever so reliable." Cook springs up to his feet. "Well, let's not keep Kari waiting."

*

There's something refreshing about being on stage after a long hiatus. Well, his impromptu performance at Cook's concert in Utah months back doesn't count.

Maybe it's the boys' influence that David feels this insurmountable amount of energy surging inside him, out of him and spiraling throughout the entire stadium. He's practically vibrating with excitement.

Seven songs, including the two new ones, plus an encore later, David walks off the stage, heart on his throat and his head floating in oblivion. The adrenaline is still flowing through his veins and when he reaches the area behind the curtain where Cook's waiting, David instinctively throws his arms around Cook and whispers, "Thank you. For everything."

David feels Cook's arms coil around his waist, feel Cook's hold tighten when Cook says, "Anytime, Arch. Anytime."

They pull apart but David keeps his arms on Cook's shoulders, while Cook's hands rest on David's hip. Cook's gaze holds David in place, drawing David in, like some force pulling them together until their lips meet and it takes a while, a minute or less, before David realizes what's happening. He jumps back then, his arms flailing, hand flying up to his lips, finger tracing the warmth left on the surface and still makes his skin tingle.

"I…" is all David manages to utter. Cook seems stunned in silence as well.

"David." Kari's voice startles him out of his daze and he turns, feeling lightheaded still. "The boys are looking for you. Come." Kari beckons him over and David just follows her further backstage and into the hallway leading to the dressing rooms. He doesn't feel Cook's presence behind him and he can't blame the man for wanting to stay back.

Cheers fill the corridors, some of the entourage members yelling in Japanese, some in English. He spots the boys at the opposite end, all dressed in their costumes like the princes they are, glowing in white coordinated with accessories and linings in their corresponding colors. Otoya has red, Cecil green, Syo looks absolutely adorable in pink, Natsuki in yellow, Masato has blue, Ren orange and Tokiya purple. A harmony of seven colors indeed.

They all came running up to him. Otoya has both arms raised so David mirrors him and when Otoya's palms hit his, David feels a new breed of energy swelling from his hands. Then Masato does the same, giving him a double high five. Ren follows after. Then Syo and Natsuki. Tokiya slaps his hands gentler than the others. "Beyond one thousand percent," Tokiya says as he rushes to the stage left to take his place.

Cecil sidles next to him, placing an arm around his shoulders. "I won't be going out with them," he says in response to David's silent question. "They will introduce me at the end of the opening song."

"Let's go watch them then." David retraces his steps back to where he came from earlier and finds Cook standing by the double doors waiting for them, for him.

Screams echo around the venue, making the ground tremble and the walls shake. David can see the six boys standing at the center of the stage now, hidden in darkness.

The sudden burst of lights blinds him, his vision somehow dyed in seven colors, each shade encompassing another like prism glittering against a backdrop of white.

Then music blooms across the stadium, filling his heart and stirring something dormant in his soul.

At that moment, David doesn't regret the decision he has made - to not stand at the center of the spotlight and be a guiding beam instead, to open up the curtains to someone else and stand aside to watch a new rainbow shine.

And Cook… Cook has always been there behind him, beside him, holding his hand and offering encouraging words.

FINISH

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Omake:

The boys and their road manager, Hyuga Ryuya, aren't scheduled to leave until three days after the concert. They have a lot of free time now so David and Cook decide to take them around Los Angeles.

"I know you have Disneyland in Tokyo," Cook says from the front seat of the van they've rented. He's sitting next to the driver. "But I thought you'd like to see the one here in L.A."

"Ooh, that will be great! I love seeing Mickey Mouse." Natsuki seems the most excited about this trip. "I've only been to Disneyland Tokyo once, when Saotome-san brought us there after the success of our debut concert."

"I wasn't with you guys, then," Cecil speaks up. "So I haven't been to Disneyland." He looks equally as excited as Natsuki now.

They spend the entire day at the park, with David being dragged around not just by Cook, but by a bubbly Otoya, an energetic Syo, an overly enthusiastic Natsuki and ever-so-curious Cecil as well.

The next day, they take them to The Counter for lunch and David can't help but laugh at the way Cook and Ren engage themselves in a hamburger eating contest. Lots of pictures are taken, mostly by Kari and Ryuya.

Late in the afternoon, they take them to Universal Studios and just about any tourist spot David, Cook and Kari can think of.

That night, they take them to a club where their fellow Idol alum, Kris Allen, is holding a party. Kris has actually sent David a text message earlier, asking him and Cook to drop by and bring STARISH. Kris apparently has heard of them and he seems taken with the boys. "I hope you choose me as your front act next time you have a show here in the States," he tells them.

It's past nine when David and Cook manage to slip out of the club with Kari.

"I didn't notice the boys leave the party," David says as he slides out of the rear seat of the SUV that Kris has lent them to bring them back to their temporary lodging.

"I didn't either," Cook says, already outside and waiting for David, hand held out to help David, probably to make sure he doesn’t trip or anything.

"They said they were tired." It's Kari who explains the reason for the boys' disappearance. "And Hyuga-san thinks it's wise to get them out of there since they've started serving alcohol. All the boys are still underage. I think Hyuga-san doesn't want to take any risk."

"Yeah. I think that's the responsible thing to do." David pushes the front door open and is surprised when someone jumps in front of him.

"Okaeri, David-senpai, Cook-san, Kari-chan!" Syo has both arms up and he's wearing a tuxedo.

Tokiya appears at the hallway, also wearing a tuxedo. "Welcome back. Please, follow me."

Cook's the one to ask, "What's going on here?"

"We all agreed to do something for you guys," Otoya says, coming out from the kitchen in a tuxedo as well. "To thank you. For everything."

"So we prepared a late night light dinner for you." It's Masato who ambles out this time, likewise garbed in a tuxedo with a white cloth hanging from his folded arm and a tray balancing on his other hand.

The boys lead them to the garden where there's a table set in the middle. Ren and Cecil are waiting there, each of them holding a chair for David and Cook. Once they're seated, Natsuki takes the centerpiece away and Masato sets the tray in place of it.

"Ren and I made a combination of Japanese and Italian dishes," Masato says, removing the cover from the plates. "I hope you like them."

"I made the dessert," Natsuiki announces and David doesn't mean to but his head snaps up, eyes wide and Cook actually laughs at his reaction. David remembers Syo telling him and Cook how Natsuki loves to bake but he's terrible at it, his food often causing others to be sick. "Don't worry, David-senpai. Ren-kun watched me closely. He's a pretty strict instructor."

"Aren't you joining us, Kari?" David notices his manager standing by the side.

"I don't want to intrude," Kari says, a sheepish smile on her lips.

"Well, can you join me at the table over there, my lady?" Ryuya says, gesturing at the veranda where another table has been set. "Let us give the boys some privacy." By boys, David wonders whom Ryuya is referring to.

"Why don't we set a romantic mood?" The corners of Natsuki's eyes crinkle behind his glasses when he smiles. "Syo-chan?"

"Right." Syo brings out his violin and starts playing. Not long after, Ren follows suit with his saxophone and Natsuki joins in with his viola. Then Cecil also plays the flute while Otoya brings out his classic guitar.

"Since I cannot drag the grand piano out here," Masato says, his lips curving in a smile David so rarely sees. Two members of STARISH's entourage come out with a keyboard. They set up the instrument in a flash and Masato soon joins the ensemble, fingers flowing across the keys.

Then Tokiya's singing a Japanese ballad. David can't understand the lyrics, but he hears the word 'moonlight' somewhere and he can't help but think how appropriate it is since the moon is at its fullest, smiling down at them.

David tries not to glance Cook's way but his effort seems futile because he always meets Cook's gaze, always, always catches Cook staring.

"How romantic," someone says - Cecil, most likely - and when David turns, it's Ren whom he first sees and Ren winks at him, making David feel heat surface on his cheeks.

The dessert - strawberry shortcake made from fresh strawberries - turns out fine. In fact, it's absolutely delicious.

They end the night with Cook teaching the boys to sing English songs and David stays at the veranda, watching them.

Kari nudges him with her shoulder. "You and Cook look like proud parents to these boys, you know," she says in jest.

"Kari, please. Not you, too." David tries to sound exasperated, but he's pretty sure he fails.

There's a twinkle in Kari's eyes that David doesn't miss and her smile turns devious somehow. "I think I'll go to bed. Good night, David."

David and Cook decide not to go to the airport with the boys the next day, to avoid attracting paparazzi. They see the boys off though, both of them having Kari move their flight to an afternoon schedule since the boys are leaving before lunch.

"You will come visit us in Japan ne, David-senpai, Dave-senpai," Otoya says, tears already pooling on his eyes.

David steals a glance at Cook, only to realize that Cook's doing the same. They share a smile and it's Cook who tells Otoya and the boys, "Sure. Even if I have to tie up Archie and haul him on the plane with me."

Natsuki gives each of them a hug while the other boys settle for a handshake. Then all boys bow at the same time, saying, "Domo arigatou gozaimasu ta. Thank you very much."

Hours later, Cook leaves first. "I'll see you in Nashville in a couple of weeks?" he asks.

"Yeah." David has met a lot of people in the past, made friends only to say goodbye to them days or weeks later without knowing if he'll ever get to talk to them or see them again someday. He has gotten used to it, but it always leaves him with a heavy heart.

Three days later, he's back home in Utah, setting up his laptop so he can record a vlog and report about his adventures with STARISH. His sisters, Jazzy and Amber, are fighting over his iPad, both of them gushing over the pictures of the boys while David listens to their conversation.

"Tokiya is so dreamy."

"I think Syo is cuter."

"Omigosh! Look at Otoya. Those eyes!"

"Masato looks like a perfect gentleman here."

"I want to marry Ren."

"Natsuki looks so adorable!"

"Cecil is so prince-like."

David notices an email notification and he clicks on it, reads the subject 'Hello from Japan!' and sees a picture of STARISH, standing in front of a large house - more like a mansion. Underneath is a message, which reads: 'We'll be waiting for you, David-senpai, Dave-senpai!'

/End omake

*End notes:

1) Crash course in Japanese

Ja matane - see you again/ see you later
Sumimasen - I'm sorry/ I apologize/ Excuse me
Hai - yes (or expressing affirmation)
iie - no
Sou desu/ Sou dane - That's right
Doushta no - What happened?/ Something wrong?
Konban wa - Good evening
Oyasumi - Good night
Sugoi - Wow/ That's great/ Amazing
Okaeri - Welcome home/ welcome back

If there's anything I forgot, let me know.

(NOTE: In case you're going to watch the videos, try not to pay attention to the English translations of the song lyrics because they don't make any sense since it was translated line by line.)

2) Also, THIS is how I imagined the concert scene and backstage scene with David standing in place of the girl in the backstage.

3) Since I do suck at descriptions, the costume described in the backstage scene is from this video, in case anyone is interested.

4) Some facts twisted or removed for the sake of the story:

- Tokiya doesn't play the xylophone. It was never mentioned what instruments he plays, only that he can play some but doesn't specialize in any, unlike the other boys.

- It was likewise never mentioned who among them speaks English, only that Ren knows how to speak Italian because when he and Masato were kids, they got lost in Italy and Masato was afraid to be separated from Ren since he doesn't speak the local language but Ren does. Natsuki, though, did grow up in France, but he was too young when his family moved back to Japan so I don't know if he speaks French.

- I did not mention Natsuki's split personality disorder here because my gosh, that's going to make the story longer.

Mirai Chizu by STARISH (the pioneering 6 members):


video credited to the owner, Norelle Basas from YouTube





Deleted scene:

(A/N: I meant for this to be Archie-centric. After writing this scene, I realized the focus shifted to my UtaPri pairings. So no. I decided not to include this.

The concert's in three days and the boys and David have all been given the day off.

"Why don't we do something together?" Cook says, setting the book he's been reading aside. "We haven't really done anything that isn't work-related since we got here."

"What exactly do you have in mind?" David's eyes flip over to the window. Going out is probably out of the question since it's raining.

Cook shrugs. "Anything. We can play video games, or watch DVD. Anything we can do without involving the boys. You've been spending too much time with each of them I'm starting to get jealous."

David rolls his eyes. "Don't be silly. I-"

A low guttural moan coming from the room next to theirs interrupts David then audible panting sounds and lewd noises follow.

Cook snorts. "Looks like Tokiya and Otoya are enjoying their break."

David isn't born yesterday. He knows what Cook meant and the image of what Tokiya and Otoya could be doing flashes in his mind, causing heat to spread all over his face all the way to the tips of his ears. "You mean To-tokiya and Otoya are…"

Laughter vibrates out of Cook's mouth. "Don't tell me you're still dense when it comes to these things, Archuleta. After all these years?"

" I know they're close. But… but I didn't think they're that way," David says in his defense.

"Well they're that way. So are Ren and Masato."

"What? B-but they always argue."

"That's their foreplay." Cook seems to be enjoying the way David gets embarrassed with every raunchy sound he hears from Tokiya and Otoya's room.

"Fore-You know what? I don't want to hear about it?" David slides out of bed then moves toward the door.

"Where are you going?"

"Downstairs. I'm going to get a bottle of water." David pulls the door open and spies Cecil lingering outside Tokiya and Otoya's room. "Do you need anything from the kitchen?"

"Nah. I'll be right behind you."

David can hear a saxophone and piano laying and he assumes Ren and Masato are in one of the practice rooms. They don't sound like they're practicing, more like taking pleasure from playing their instruments. Syo and Natsuki are in the kitchen devouring a large bowl of multi-colored ice cream.

"Hey senpai. You want some?" Natsuki points at the bowl with his spoon.

"No thanks. Should you be eating that? Don't you need to take care of your voices?"

"Not really. We're on break," Syo says then shoves a spoonful of pink ice cream in his mouth.

"Good point." David pulls the fridge door open and is glad the first thing he sees is a box of orange juice. He takes it out and grabs a glass from a cabinet.

"I wish the rain would stop. I want to go shopping," Syo says when David joins them at the table.

"Well, even if it doesn't stop, I can take you. We can take my car. Or the car I rented," David offers.

"Really, David-senpai? Thank you!"

"Can I go, too, Senpai?" Natsuki asks while wiping off the mist that gathered on his glasses with his finger. "I want to buy some souvenirs."

"Sure. We can leave after lunch." David takes his drink, gets up and says, "Well, I'll see you guys later." He makes his way straight to the practice rooms and only when he's strolling through the hallway did he realize that he can no longer hear Ren playing the saxophone. He can hear discordant notes from the piano though and he wonders if Masato is fiddling with the keys.

The doors on three of the practice rooms are left ajar and he doesn't see the two teenagers inside so he presumes they're at the one at the end of the hall. Without even thinking of knocking, David pushes the door open and he feels his heart stop beating the moment he sees the two boys.

There, on the piano bench, is Ren, with his back resting on the piano keys. Masato's straddling him, their lips locked together. Both boys are shirtless and David notices Ren's hands are inside Masato's jeans, clearly rubbing Masato's butt.

David's fingers suddenly feel numb. The glass of orange juice slips out of his grip and crashes stridently against the marble floor, causing Ren and Masato to whip their heads to where David is standing like a dang statue.