The Price of Fame - Epilogue (Part 2)
Title: The Price of Fame
Author: hanez
Genre: Angst, AU
Theme: Celebrity Jin / High School Student Kazuya
Rating: PG 13 ++ (maybe higher)
Summary: Kazuya is a third year high school student, and is a great fan of Akanishi Jin, Japan's most popular and hottest male singer, who is cool but cold on the outside. His appearance is simply a facade, wanting to please the high expectation of fans. Deep down inside, Jin was a lonely young man, who lacked of love. Kazuya's one wish is to meet his idol one day, and when he was given the chance, he had fallen for him hard, getting himself involve into a world so different from his.
Disclaimer: None of the characters belong to me.
-
Tomohisa entered Jin’s mansion, his hand intertwined with that of a beautiful lady, he flashed her one assurance smile as he guided them towards the living room where he knew his friends would be. The scene that they came upon was not something new for him. The couple was making out on the sofa, thankfully with their clothes on.
“They can’t keep their hands off each other.” Tomohisa stated to the girl next to him, who simply smiled in response as she turned her gaze back to the couple. Tomohisa cleared his throat once, twice … but when that still did not attract the couple’s attention, he shouted, “Oii, Jin, Kazuya!!”
Kazuya and Jin froze at the familiar voice. When reality hits them, they jerked forward and sat a distance away from each other, pretending as if the previous act did not happen at all. The two looked up, expecting to see Tomohisa smirking at them but they frowned, noticing that Tomohisa was not alone.
Jin instinctively inched closer to Kazuya and wrapped a protective arm around the younger one.
“Yamapi, who is she?” Jin flashed the stranger an unknowing look.
“Yamapi? Your new nickname’s Yamapi? Tomo, you should’ve told me. I would have …” The girl could not complete her sentence as she was being interrupted by the man himself.
“You’re not allowed to call me that.”
“Eh, why?” She whined.
“Yamapi?” This time it was Kazuya who enquired.
Tomohisa nodded his head in understanding, murmuring something into the ear of the girl causing her to blush a little at whatever he had said. “Kazuya, Jin … this is my girlfriend, Ma …”
“GIRLFRIEND?” Kazuya and Jin shrieked in unison, looking at each other in shock.
“Since when did you have a girlfriend? No, that’s not right. When the hell did you get attached?” Jin flashed Tomohisa a disbelief expression. “Why didn’t you tell us a thing?”
Kazuya said nothing but smiled pitifully at Tomohisa’s girlfriend, Jin was seriously overreacting.
“Can you save those questions till later? Let me introduce my girlfriend first.” Tomohisa placed his arm around her waist, and said, “Her name’s Maki, Horikita Maki.”
Maki bowed, and smiled.
“Nice to meet you.”
At the mention of the name, Jin’s eyes widened in surprise for the second time in a row. He jolted up from the couch and stood near Tomohisa’s girlfriend.
“Maki-chan??? Is that you?”
Maki crossed her arms and smirked. “Long time no see, Jin.”
“Maki-chan, what- I have not seen you for years and now you’re Yamapi’s girlfriend?” Jin exclaimed in disbelief. “I can’t believe this!”
Kazuya felt left out, not understanding what the hell was going on. Maki-chan? Who is Horikita Maki in Jin’s life? Jin seemed so friendly with her. Not wanting to be the odd one, Kazuya stood next to Jin and tugged his sleeves, his eyes pleading for an explanation.
“Jin?”
Maki acted fast than Jin as she handed out her hand to Kazuya with a gentle smile. “Please, just call me Maki. I’m sure you know of Jin and Tomo’s past, right? I belonged in the same orphanage as theirs. Being a few years younger, they were the older brothers I looked out for. They’re the only family I had then.”
Kazuya nodded, finally understanding the situation.
“I’m your boyfriend now.” Tomohisa reminded Maki, kissing her on the cheeks.
“Silly, I know that.” Maki chuckled. “I’ve always looked Jin up as my older brother but Tomo is special. At such a young age, I might not have understood what it was but even then, I knew that the feeling was precious. We parted ways, and I had forgotten all about it until I meet Tomo again five months ago. I don’t know how it happened but the feelings I had for him resurfaced.”
Tomohisa smiled, pulling his girlfriend into his embrace. “I didn’t tell you, Jin, but I had a thing for Maki back then but I was a coward, not asking out the girl I liked. That was why, when I had the chance to meet Maki again, I didn’t want to make the same mistake.”
Kazuya smiled, the story of the two was really touching. He looked up at Jin who seemed calm, different from his reaction earlier.
“We didn’t tell the both of you at first because we wanted to make sure that this were what we want. We’ve only dated for five months but now, from the bottom of my heart, I can say that Maki’s the one for me. There can’t be anyone else but her.”
“Tomo …” Maki’s eyes cluttered with tears, she felt touched at his words.
Jin’s lips formed into a smile, knowing very well what the feeling of being in love was but most important of all, he was glad that his best friend had found his happiness, his true love. He directed his glance at the person next to him, his eyes blinking, suddenly remembering something.
“Maki-chan, does that mean you know … that Kazu and I are …”
“Dating?” Maki answered for Jin. “Tomo told me. But don’t worry … I won’t voice a word about it to anyone else. It is not my secret to tell.”
Jin heaves a sigh of relief, pulling Kazuya close to him. “Maki-chan, meet the love of my life, Kamenashi Kazuya.”
“We’ve already introduced each other, Jin.” Maki said in amusement. Kazuya smiled.
“Did you?”
“I’m glad you did not lose the baka side of you, Jin, even after all these years.” Maki teased. She looked up at her boyfriend and smiled. “Tomo’s still the smartest one.”
Tomohisa grinned.
“HEY!!!”
The three chuckled, looking on at a fuming Jin.
-
“Jin, there’s a request for you to produce a song for a new singer.”
Jin immediately shook his head, not looking up at his manager, as he replied back, “You know I don’t write songs for others. My songs are special. I expressed my feelings through songs and there is no way I am going to sell them away.”
“You don’t even want to hear the name of the singer?”
“Nope, not interested.”
“Well, too bad then.” Tomohisa pretended to be disappointed. “Then it means Kazuya’s new single would be written by other composers.”
Jin blinked. “Wait, what did you just say? Kazuya …? You meant my Kazu?”
“Yeah, who do you think I’m talking about? Nakamaru called me a few days ago, asking if you could produce Kazuya’s upcoming single. One or two songs would be good enough, he said. By the way, Kazuya knows nothing of this. Nakamaru wanted it to be a surprise.”
“I take back my word! I’ll take this project!”
Tomohisa crossed his arms and smirked, he knew that his plan would work.
“But I’ll only write songs for Kazu though.”
-
Kazuya sat on the sofa in the recording room, waiting for the composer of his new single to arrive. He had listened to the song firsthand and had memorized the lyrics. The song is beautiful, the lyrics touching, the story told in the song was similar to Jin and Kazuya’s love, that made him wonder who could write a beautiful song, the style so that of Jin’s.
The composer couldn’t be Akanishi Jin, could it?
“It can’t be.” Kazuya chuckled, shaking his head. His thoughts were interrupted when the door opened. Kazuya turned his gaze to the door, he stared in surprise when he realised that it was Jin.
“Jin?”
“I’m sorry I’m late. I got held up in a photo shoot.” Jin smiled, walking towards where Kazuya is.
“It was you who wrote my new single?”
Jin simply nodded.
“Then if you’re the composer that means you wrote them especially for me? You’ve never gave your songs for any other singers before.”
“That’s right.” Jin sat next to Kazuya, reaching for his hand. “You’re special so you’re an exception.”
Kazuya immediately hugged Jin, smiling earnestly. The recording was delayed as the couple were too indulged being in their own moment. Nevertheless it still went smoothly. They didn’t take long to record the two songs, the both singer heads back home together in Jin’s silver convertible.
The single was a hit, all wondering who AJ was.
-
Tomohisa glanced at his wrist watch nervously, realising that he was fifteen minutes late for his date. When he reached the designated place, Maki was already there, standing by the railing of the bridge. Mesmerised by the beauty of the scene, he engulfed his girlfriend from the back without any hesitation.
“Wha … Who? What do you think you’re doing?” Maki let out a gasp, shocked that she was being hugged by a stranger. “Hey, mister … Let go of me!”
“Maki, it’s me.”
“Oh, it’s you, Tomo …” Maki let out a relief sigh. “Don’t scare me like that. I thought who the hell the lunatic is, jumping onto a stranger. I’m glad it was you.”
Tomohisa chuckled. “I’m sorry. I wanted to hug you real badly.”
“Is something wrong, Tomo?”
“No, there isn’t.” Tomohisa’s hold on his girlfriend tightened. “I’m just … happy that fate decides for us to meet again because when I thought I’ve lost the hope in happiness and love, I’ve found them again. I found them in you. Because I have you in my life now, I look forward to every day. I’ve found my happiness, Maki.”
“Tomo …” Maki turned to face Tomohisa, realising that the man she love was crying. She wiped away his tears with a smile, and hugged him.
“You’re my happiness too.”
-
20 April 2010
Kazuya and Jin were out shopping in Shibuya, not caring about the stares and whispers of passerby. They had kept their relationship a secret for far too long, and they thought that it was just the right time to appear together in public. The both of them hardly wear any form of disguise to cover themselves as they walk side by side only a small gap separates them.
“This looks good on you, Kazu.” Jin said, looking at Kazuya who now had a white hat on his head.
“But Jin … I like the black one too.”
“Then let’s take both.”
Kazuya pondered about it for a moment then nodded. The both of them heads towards the cashier with a basket full of items, most of it were Kazuya’s. He wanted to separate his stuffs from Jin’s and pay them with his own money but Jin stopped him.
“It’s alright, Kazuya. Let me.”
“But …”
Jin shook his head and smiled at his lover, taking out his card from his wallet and giving it to the saleswoman. Jin held the shopping bag, and turned to face Kazuya, ignoring the fact that the saleswoman was ogling at the both of them.
“Where to now?”
“I’m hungry …” Kazuya whined.
Jin wanted so much as to ruffle Kazuya’s hair there and then but he had to restrain himself, knowing that they’re in public, and every of their actions could be seen. They had promised to each other to reveal their secret to the public, step by step, one at a time.
“I know of a great restaurant here. Let’s go, okay?”
Kazuya nodded happily, following Jin out of the shop. When they were finally alone at the secluded booth in the elegant restaurant, Jin instantly grabbed for Kazuya’s hand underneath the table. Kazuya smiled and tightened the hold of their intertwined hands.
“I want this.” Kazuya pin-pointed to the menu.
Jin nodded his head, raising his hand to order their food.
-
The next day, Kazuya and Jin appeared on the cover page of tabloids and newspapers. Photographs of them together in public were printed and even though there were many speculations interpreted, there was no concrete evidence. Some speculated that Kazuya is the teenager Jin has been dating for almost three years.
“This is interesting.” Jin shook his head, putting the newspapers aside. He reached for Kazuya’s hand instead.
“So you guys carrying out the plan as decided? You sure this is what you want?” Tomohisa asked, Nakamaru next to him. Maki was in the kitchen, cooking their dinner. Ever since Maki became his, Tomohisa couldn’t bear to part with her for long.
“We’re pretty sure, not without a doubt. Right, Kazu?” Jin glanced at his lover who nodded in response.
“That’s good to hear.” Nakamaru said.
“We’re just going to play with the media for awhile, hell no are we going to admit that we’re truly dating immediately. This is just a small payback for what they’ve done to us.” Jin smirked.
“I never know that you had that in you, Jin, but it’s not a bad idea at all. Now that this discussion is over, I’m going to disturb my princess. ” Tomohisa clapped his hands and headed towards the kitchen without further ado.
“That guy can’t even be apart from his girl for ten minutes! Right, guys?” Nakamaru chuckled. He blinked when he realised what Kazuya and Jin was doing. They were kissing, in front of him!
“I need to find myself a girlfriend too.” He murmured, leaving immediately.
-
Akanishi Jin was swarmed with reporters the minute he got out of the car. He didn’t even get the chance to walk a few steps on the red carpet before being bombarded. Bodyguards were helping Jin to pass through.
“Akanishi-san, is the rumour true that the one you’ve been dating is Kamenashi Kazuya?”
“Would you reveal the identity of your love soon?”
“Akanishi-san, if Kamenashi Kazuya is not your boyfriend, why would you still keep quiet about it?”
“I have no comment.” Jin stated firmly, his expression cool and collected.
“Akanishi-san!”
That moment, however, Jin notices signboards of some fans, waving to him excitedly. The boards had pictures of Kazuya and him, and the label was … Akame? What the hell does Akame stands for?
Jin was glad though, to know that there are fans who support his relationship with Kazuya.
-
Kazuya was teased frequently on television shows for having his name linked to Akanishi Jin. Despite it all, he kept his mouth shut about the truth. He would not give way to anything. He simply laughed at being teased.
“Akame?” Kazuya blinked.
“Yeah, the fans gave us that nickname. I’ve tried my best to think of its meaning but I came with nothing.”
“Hmm, Akame huh? That’s the combination of our family name.” Kazuya said instantly.
“Ah, you’re right! Akame … Akanishi and Kamenashi! How the hell the fans came up with such creative pairing name?” Jin wondered, crossing his arms.
Kazuya went up to Jin and hugged his form from behind, “That doesn’t matter. I’m happy that there are some who supports us. I’m really glad.”
Jin nodded, placing his hands on Kazuya’s. “Want to make more to turn into Akame fans?” He suggested.
“Hell yeah.”
-
The couple had a chance to appear in a music program together again but despite that, they pretended that they didn’t know each other, passing by one another without glancing at one another. That made the fans and the media speculates if the rumour was not true after all. The Akame fans however believed that the couple simply had a fight thus keeping a distance away from one another.
Their false acts proved to bring in good result, they gained more Akame fans.
“I knew it would work!” Jin squealed in delight, having seen more Akame signboards on big events. “We did it, Kazu!!!”
Kazuya simply smiled, happy to see the smile on Jin’s face. They would keep on carrying out this façade until the time’s ready to spill the beans. In their hearts, they knew that the time would come soon.
-
4th July 2010
Kazuya attends Jin’s 25th birthday party that was held in a hotel. He did not come alone, his two best friends that accompanied him. It was not a private function. There were other big stars who attended this big event though there were only a few trusted reporters that were allowed entrance. Kazuya’s presence however aroused the attention of the guests.
Kazuya stays by Jin’s side the whole time, acting too friendly with him, for them to be just friends.
“May I have your attention, please?” Jin cleared his throat and wait for a moment until he gets the silence he wants, everyone had their full attention on him. “There is something important that I need to announce.”
He took a deep breath, and started, “I’m sure all you have already known of my recent rumour. Today, I’m going to tell the truth. I’ll reveal the identity of the person who I love, and have been dating for almost three years.”
The cameras and spotlight were on Jin, waiting in anticipation.
“Kazu, come here.”
The whole room was filled with gasp the instant Jin said that name, the cameras clicking instantly the instant Kazuya stepped up next to Jin. He smiled shyly when Jin took him in his arms.
“I promised that I’ll reveal the identity of my love when the time is right. This young man here is the love of my life, the one I am fated to spend the rest of my life with, Kamenashi Kazuya.”
Kazuya murmured his thanks when he was given a microphone by the hotel staff.
“I know that this would bring in shock to some people. I have been with Jin through thick and thin these past three years. We’ve suffered a plenty, tears shed but light shone upon us in the end. Our happiness lies truthfully in each other, and I really hope that with us revealing our relationship to the public, that all of you would support us. That is all that we’re asking.”
“Please support us!” The couple bowed, hands still intertwined.
A round of applause was heard, cheering for them. Kazuya and Jin got up as a bright smile filled their faces, happy to have such response. Honestly, it was beyond their expectations. The confession was filmed and would air the next morning. Within days, people all over Japan would know of the news.
Clouded with happiness, Jin kissed Kazuya on the forehead lovingly.
-
Newspapers had full coverage of Jin’s confession the next morning, the truth being revealed. The photo of Jin kissing Kazuya’s forehead and that of the both smiling was printed. Their happiness touched the hearts of the fans, and though there are some who still opposes to their relationship, the majority had nothing against it.
As long as the both of them are happy, they’re okay with it.
-
A small private party was held by the couple’s family in Jin’s mansion, Tomohisa being the one who planned the event. It was a form of celebration for the couple’s relationship’s revelation to the masses.
“Congratulations!” Confetti’s were thrown on the couple, surprising them a little.
“Congratulations, you two!!!” Maki nudged her friends on the arms teasingly.
“Congratulations!!!” The others said in unison. Tatsuya and Junno was present, they have become a part of the couple’s family as well.
“Thank you, everyone.” Jin and Kazuya were touched.
“You should’ve told us that you’re dating earlier, you know! Then I would’ve told you of our secret too! We could’ve shared interesting stories together!” Junno whined, pulling Tatsuya close to him.
“Eh, you two …?” Jin blinked.
Junno nodded, “Yeah, how many years was it again, Tat-chan?”
“You DON’T remember?” Tatsuya flashed Junno a ‘How-dare-you-don’t-remember-the-years-we’ve-dated’ look. That look was enough to make Junno flee in an instant.
“Tat-chan, I’m sorry!”
Laughter filled the living room, a room that before was cold and empty now filled with warmth with the presence of Jin’s precious family.
-
“Kazu!!!”
Kazuya squealed when Jin suddenly lifted him up and carried him bridal style. “Jin, what do you think you’re doing?”
“Carrying you?” His lover answered innocently, heading towards the stairs.
“Where are we going?”
“Bed.”
Kazuya blushed hard, at the double meaning of that word. He hid his face on Jin’s shoulder and sighed.
-
Kazuya moved into Jin’s mansion when he turned twenty. He was legal and he had the right to make his own decisions, his family was supportive of it. A photobook of the couple was released in celebration of Kazuya’s twentieth birthday. Their love story was told, there were shots of them individually and together, as well as containing a few private pictures of them.
The photobook sold like hotcakes, resulting in a second print to be made.
My heart is with you
That’s the title of the photo book, it might be simple but it has a deep meaning.
-
Kazuya accepted the vanilla ice cream Jin handed him, licking it almost immediately. He smiled brightly when Jin handed out his hand to him, and thus with his free hand, Kazuya reached out for his lover’s hand and held it dearly. The both of them stepped out of the ice cream shop and walked along the streets hand in hand, not afraid of anything.
They no longer have to hide. They now have the freedom to act freely in public. There were no more restrictions. Everything was replaced by freedom and their desire to be natural. They can just be their own selves.
No façade, no pretence, and no lies.
The both of them did not even care if there are paparazzi hiding, eager to snap pictures of them and sell fake stories. Let them do whatever they want because the real truth only lies in them both.
No one, nothing except death could separate them again. The price of fame that the couple suffered made them stronger in the end. No matter what, they would go through any obstacles together.
Their hearts are after all tied to one another.
-
Author’s Note: I dedicated this epilogue to Rina, Heppy and Nura (March babies)!! With this Part 2 of the Epilogue posted, I conclude that ‘The Price of Fame’ has finally ended. I’m gonna miss writing this fic as much as you readers would miss reading it. Ah, but it was fun writing it! Now you know who ended up with Yamapi. I am after all, a Yamaki fan. *winks* Hope you all enjoyed this last update for TPOF from me!
Author: hanez
Genre: Angst, AU
Theme: Celebrity Jin / High School Student Kazuya
Rating: PG 13 ++ (maybe higher)
Summary: Kazuya is a third year high school student, and is a great fan of Akanishi Jin, Japan's most popular and hottest male singer, who is cool but cold on the outside. His appearance is simply a facade, wanting to please the high expectation of fans. Deep down inside, Jin was a lonely young man, who lacked of love. Kazuya's one wish is to meet his idol one day, and when he was given the chance, he had fallen for him hard, getting himself involve into a world so different from his.
Disclaimer: None of the characters belong to me.
-
Tomohisa entered Jin’s mansion, his hand intertwined with that of a beautiful lady, he flashed her one assurance smile as he guided them towards the living room where he knew his friends would be. The scene that they came upon was not something new for him. The couple was making out on the sofa, thankfully with their clothes on.
“They can’t keep their hands off each other.” Tomohisa stated to the girl next to him, who simply smiled in response as she turned her gaze back to the couple. Tomohisa cleared his throat once, twice … but when that still did not attract the couple’s attention, he shouted, “Oii, Jin, Kazuya!!”
Kazuya and Jin froze at the familiar voice. When reality hits them, they jerked forward and sat a distance away from each other, pretending as if the previous act did not happen at all. The two looked up, expecting to see Tomohisa smirking at them but they frowned, noticing that Tomohisa was not alone.
Jin instinctively inched closer to Kazuya and wrapped a protective arm around the younger one.
“Yamapi, who is she?” Jin flashed the stranger an unknowing look.
“Yamapi? Your new nickname’s Yamapi? Tomo, you should’ve told me. I would have …” The girl could not complete her sentence as she was being interrupted by the man himself.
“You’re not allowed to call me that.”
“Eh, why?” She whined.
“Yamapi?” This time it was Kazuya who enquired.
Tomohisa nodded his head in understanding, murmuring something into the ear of the girl causing her to blush a little at whatever he had said. “Kazuya, Jin … this is my girlfriend, Ma …”
“GIRLFRIEND?” Kazuya and Jin shrieked in unison, looking at each other in shock.
“Since when did you have a girlfriend? No, that’s not right. When the hell did you get attached?” Jin flashed Tomohisa a disbelief expression. “Why didn’t you tell us a thing?”
Kazuya said nothing but smiled pitifully at Tomohisa’s girlfriend, Jin was seriously overreacting.
“Can you save those questions till later? Let me introduce my girlfriend first.” Tomohisa placed his arm around her waist, and said, “Her name’s Maki, Horikita Maki.”
Maki bowed, and smiled.
“Nice to meet you.”
At the mention of the name, Jin’s eyes widened in surprise for the second time in a row. He jolted up from the couch and stood near Tomohisa’s girlfriend.
“Maki-chan??? Is that you?”
Maki crossed her arms and smirked. “Long time no see, Jin.”
“Maki-chan, what- I have not seen you for years and now you’re Yamapi’s girlfriend?” Jin exclaimed in disbelief. “I can’t believe this!”
Kazuya felt left out, not understanding what the hell was going on. Maki-chan? Who is Horikita Maki in Jin’s life? Jin seemed so friendly with her. Not wanting to be the odd one, Kazuya stood next to Jin and tugged his sleeves, his eyes pleading for an explanation.
“Jin?”
Maki acted fast than Jin as she handed out her hand to Kazuya with a gentle smile. “Please, just call me Maki. I’m sure you know of Jin and Tomo’s past, right? I belonged in the same orphanage as theirs. Being a few years younger, they were the older brothers I looked out for. They’re the only family I had then.”
Kazuya nodded, finally understanding the situation.
“I’m your boyfriend now.” Tomohisa reminded Maki, kissing her on the cheeks.
“Silly, I know that.” Maki chuckled. “I’ve always looked Jin up as my older brother but Tomo is special. At such a young age, I might not have understood what it was but even then, I knew that the feeling was precious. We parted ways, and I had forgotten all about it until I meet Tomo again five months ago. I don’t know how it happened but the feelings I had for him resurfaced.”
Tomohisa smiled, pulling his girlfriend into his embrace. “I didn’t tell you, Jin, but I had a thing for Maki back then but I was a coward, not asking out the girl I liked. That was why, when I had the chance to meet Maki again, I didn’t want to make the same mistake.”
Kazuya smiled, the story of the two was really touching. He looked up at Jin who seemed calm, different from his reaction earlier.
“We didn’t tell the both of you at first because we wanted to make sure that this were what we want. We’ve only dated for five months but now, from the bottom of my heart, I can say that Maki’s the one for me. There can’t be anyone else but her.”
“Tomo …” Maki’s eyes cluttered with tears, she felt touched at his words.
Jin’s lips formed into a smile, knowing very well what the feeling of being in love was but most important of all, he was glad that his best friend had found his happiness, his true love. He directed his glance at the person next to him, his eyes blinking, suddenly remembering something.
“Maki-chan, does that mean you know … that Kazu and I are …”
“Dating?” Maki answered for Jin. “Tomo told me. But don’t worry … I won’t voice a word about it to anyone else. It is not my secret to tell.”
Jin heaves a sigh of relief, pulling Kazuya close to him. “Maki-chan, meet the love of my life, Kamenashi Kazuya.”
“We’ve already introduced each other, Jin.” Maki said in amusement. Kazuya smiled.
“Did you?”
“I’m glad you did not lose the baka side of you, Jin, even after all these years.” Maki teased. She looked up at her boyfriend and smiled. “Tomo’s still the smartest one.”
Tomohisa grinned.
“HEY!!!”
The three chuckled, looking on at a fuming Jin.
-
“Jin, there’s a request for you to produce a song for a new singer.”
Jin immediately shook his head, not looking up at his manager, as he replied back, “You know I don’t write songs for others. My songs are special. I expressed my feelings through songs and there is no way I am going to sell them away.”
“You don’t even want to hear the name of the singer?”
“Nope, not interested.”
“Well, too bad then.” Tomohisa pretended to be disappointed. “Then it means Kazuya’s new single would be written by other composers.”
Jin blinked. “Wait, what did you just say? Kazuya …? You meant my Kazu?”
“Yeah, who do you think I’m talking about? Nakamaru called me a few days ago, asking if you could produce Kazuya’s upcoming single. One or two songs would be good enough, he said. By the way, Kazuya knows nothing of this. Nakamaru wanted it to be a surprise.”
“I take back my word! I’ll take this project!”
Tomohisa crossed his arms and smirked, he knew that his plan would work.
“But I’ll only write songs for Kazu though.”
-
Kazuya sat on the sofa in the recording room, waiting for the composer of his new single to arrive. He had listened to the song firsthand and had memorized the lyrics. The song is beautiful, the lyrics touching, the story told in the song was similar to Jin and Kazuya’s love, that made him wonder who could write a beautiful song, the style so that of Jin’s.
The composer couldn’t be Akanishi Jin, could it?
“It can’t be.” Kazuya chuckled, shaking his head. His thoughts were interrupted when the door opened. Kazuya turned his gaze to the door, he stared in surprise when he realised that it was Jin.
“Jin?”
“I’m sorry I’m late. I got held up in a photo shoot.” Jin smiled, walking towards where Kazuya is.
“It was you who wrote my new single?”
Jin simply nodded.
“Then if you’re the composer that means you wrote them especially for me? You’ve never gave your songs for any other singers before.”
“That’s right.” Jin sat next to Kazuya, reaching for his hand. “You’re special so you’re an exception.”
Kazuya immediately hugged Jin, smiling earnestly. The recording was delayed as the couple were too indulged being in their own moment. Nevertheless it still went smoothly. They didn’t take long to record the two songs, the both singer heads back home together in Jin’s silver convertible.
The single was a hit, all wondering who AJ was.
-
Tomohisa glanced at his wrist watch nervously, realising that he was fifteen minutes late for his date. When he reached the designated place, Maki was already there, standing by the railing of the bridge. Mesmerised by the beauty of the scene, he engulfed his girlfriend from the back without any hesitation.
“Wha … Who? What do you think you’re doing?” Maki let out a gasp, shocked that she was being hugged by a stranger. “Hey, mister … Let go of me!”
“Maki, it’s me.”
“Oh, it’s you, Tomo …” Maki let out a relief sigh. “Don’t scare me like that. I thought who the hell the lunatic is, jumping onto a stranger. I’m glad it was you.”
Tomohisa chuckled. “I’m sorry. I wanted to hug you real badly.”
“Is something wrong, Tomo?”
“No, there isn’t.” Tomohisa’s hold on his girlfriend tightened. “I’m just … happy that fate decides for us to meet again because when I thought I’ve lost the hope in happiness and love, I’ve found them again. I found them in you. Because I have you in my life now, I look forward to every day. I’ve found my happiness, Maki.”
“Tomo …” Maki turned to face Tomohisa, realising that the man she love was crying. She wiped away his tears with a smile, and hugged him.
“You’re my happiness too.”
-
20 April 2010
Kazuya and Jin were out shopping in Shibuya, not caring about the stares and whispers of passerby. They had kept their relationship a secret for far too long, and they thought that it was just the right time to appear together in public. The both of them hardly wear any form of disguise to cover themselves as they walk side by side only a small gap separates them.
“This looks good on you, Kazu.” Jin said, looking at Kazuya who now had a white hat on his head.
“But Jin … I like the black one too.”
“Then let’s take both.”
Kazuya pondered about it for a moment then nodded. The both of them heads towards the cashier with a basket full of items, most of it were Kazuya’s. He wanted to separate his stuffs from Jin’s and pay them with his own money but Jin stopped him.
“It’s alright, Kazuya. Let me.”
“But …”
Jin shook his head and smiled at his lover, taking out his card from his wallet and giving it to the saleswoman. Jin held the shopping bag, and turned to face Kazuya, ignoring the fact that the saleswoman was ogling at the both of them.
“Where to now?”
“I’m hungry …” Kazuya whined.
Jin wanted so much as to ruffle Kazuya’s hair there and then but he had to restrain himself, knowing that they’re in public, and every of their actions could be seen. They had promised to each other to reveal their secret to the public, step by step, one at a time.
“I know of a great restaurant here. Let’s go, okay?”
Kazuya nodded happily, following Jin out of the shop. When they were finally alone at the secluded booth in the elegant restaurant, Jin instantly grabbed for Kazuya’s hand underneath the table. Kazuya smiled and tightened the hold of their intertwined hands.
“I want this.” Kazuya pin-pointed to the menu.
Jin nodded his head, raising his hand to order their food.
-
The next day, Kazuya and Jin appeared on the cover page of tabloids and newspapers. Photographs of them together in public were printed and even though there were many speculations interpreted, there was no concrete evidence. Some speculated that Kazuya is the teenager Jin has been dating for almost three years.
“This is interesting.” Jin shook his head, putting the newspapers aside. He reached for Kazuya’s hand instead.
“So you guys carrying out the plan as decided? You sure this is what you want?” Tomohisa asked, Nakamaru next to him. Maki was in the kitchen, cooking their dinner. Ever since Maki became his, Tomohisa couldn’t bear to part with her for long.
“We’re pretty sure, not without a doubt. Right, Kazu?” Jin glanced at his lover who nodded in response.
“That’s good to hear.” Nakamaru said.
“We’re just going to play with the media for awhile, hell no are we going to admit that we’re truly dating immediately. This is just a small payback for what they’ve done to us.” Jin smirked.
“I never know that you had that in you, Jin, but it’s not a bad idea at all. Now that this discussion is over, I’m going to disturb my princess. ” Tomohisa clapped his hands and headed towards the kitchen without further ado.
“That guy can’t even be apart from his girl for ten minutes! Right, guys?” Nakamaru chuckled. He blinked when he realised what Kazuya and Jin was doing. They were kissing, in front of him!
“I need to find myself a girlfriend too.” He murmured, leaving immediately.
-
Akanishi Jin was swarmed with reporters the minute he got out of the car. He didn’t even get the chance to walk a few steps on the red carpet before being bombarded. Bodyguards were helping Jin to pass through.
“Akanishi-san, is the rumour true that the one you’ve been dating is Kamenashi Kazuya?”
“Would you reveal the identity of your love soon?”
“Akanishi-san, if Kamenashi Kazuya is not your boyfriend, why would you still keep quiet about it?”
“I have no comment.” Jin stated firmly, his expression cool and collected.
“Akanishi-san!”
That moment, however, Jin notices signboards of some fans, waving to him excitedly. The boards had pictures of Kazuya and him, and the label was … Akame? What the hell does Akame stands for?
Jin was glad though, to know that there are fans who support his relationship with Kazuya.
-
Kazuya was teased frequently on television shows for having his name linked to Akanishi Jin. Despite it all, he kept his mouth shut about the truth. He would not give way to anything. He simply laughed at being teased.
“Akame?” Kazuya blinked.
“Yeah, the fans gave us that nickname. I’ve tried my best to think of its meaning but I came with nothing.”
“Hmm, Akame huh? That’s the combination of our family name.” Kazuya said instantly.
“Ah, you’re right! Akame … Akanishi and Kamenashi! How the hell the fans came up with such creative pairing name?” Jin wondered, crossing his arms.
Kazuya went up to Jin and hugged his form from behind, “That doesn’t matter. I’m happy that there are some who supports us. I’m really glad.”
Jin nodded, placing his hands on Kazuya’s. “Want to make more to turn into Akame fans?” He suggested.
“Hell yeah.”
-
The couple had a chance to appear in a music program together again but despite that, they pretended that they didn’t know each other, passing by one another without glancing at one another. That made the fans and the media speculates if the rumour was not true after all. The Akame fans however believed that the couple simply had a fight thus keeping a distance away from one another.
Their false acts proved to bring in good result, they gained more Akame fans.
“I knew it would work!” Jin squealed in delight, having seen more Akame signboards on big events. “We did it, Kazu!!!”
Kazuya simply smiled, happy to see the smile on Jin’s face. They would keep on carrying out this façade until the time’s ready to spill the beans. In their hearts, they knew that the time would come soon.
-
4th July 2010
Kazuya attends Jin’s 25th birthday party that was held in a hotel. He did not come alone, his two best friends that accompanied him. It was not a private function. There were other big stars who attended this big event though there were only a few trusted reporters that were allowed entrance. Kazuya’s presence however aroused the attention of the guests.
Kazuya stays by Jin’s side the whole time, acting too friendly with him, for them to be just friends.
“May I have your attention, please?” Jin cleared his throat and wait for a moment until he gets the silence he wants, everyone had their full attention on him. “There is something important that I need to announce.”
He took a deep breath, and started, “I’m sure all you have already known of my recent rumour. Today, I’m going to tell the truth. I’ll reveal the identity of the person who I love, and have been dating for almost three years.”
The cameras and spotlight were on Jin, waiting in anticipation.
“Kazu, come here.”
The whole room was filled with gasp the instant Jin said that name, the cameras clicking instantly the instant Kazuya stepped up next to Jin. He smiled shyly when Jin took him in his arms.
“I promised that I’ll reveal the identity of my love when the time is right. This young man here is the love of my life, the one I am fated to spend the rest of my life with, Kamenashi Kazuya.”
Kazuya murmured his thanks when he was given a microphone by the hotel staff.
“I know that this would bring in shock to some people. I have been with Jin through thick and thin these past three years. We’ve suffered a plenty, tears shed but light shone upon us in the end. Our happiness lies truthfully in each other, and I really hope that with us revealing our relationship to the public, that all of you would support us. That is all that we’re asking.”
“Please support us!” The couple bowed, hands still intertwined.
A round of applause was heard, cheering for them. Kazuya and Jin got up as a bright smile filled their faces, happy to have such response. Honestly, it was beyond their expectations. The confession was filmed and would air the next morning. Within days, people all over Japan would know of the news.
Clouded with happiness, Jin kissed Kazuya on the forehead lovingly.
-
Newspapers had full coverage of Jin’s confession the next morning, the truth being revealed. The photo of Jin kissing Kazuya’s forehead and that of the both smiling was printed. Their happiness touched the hearts of the fans, and though there are some who still opposes to their relationship, the majority had nothing against it.
As long as the both of them are happy, they’re okay with it.
-
A small private party was held by the couple’s family in Jin’s mansion, Tomohisa being the one who planned the event. It was a form of celebration for the couple’s relationship’s revelation to the masses.
“Congratulations!” Confetti’s were thrown on the couple, surprising them a little.
“Congratulations, you two!!!” Maki nudged her friends on the arms teasingly.
“Congratulations!!!” The others said in unison. Tatsuya and Junno was present, they have become a part of the couple’s family as well.
“Thank you, everyone.” Jin and Kazuya were touched.
“You should’ve told us that you’re dating earlier, you know! Then I would’ve told you of our secret too! We could’ve shared interesting stories together!” Junno whined, pulling Tatsuya close to him.
“Eh, you two …?” Jin blinked.
Junno nodded, “Yeah, how many years was it again, Tat-chan?”
“You DON’T remember?” Tatsuya flashed Junno a ‘How-dare-you-don’t-remember-the-years-we’ve-dated’ look. That look was enough to make Junno flee in an instant.
“Tat-chan, I’m sorry!”
Laughter filled the living room, a room that before was cold and empty now filled with warmth with the presence of Jin’s precious family.
-
“Kazu!!!”
Kazuya squealed when Jin suddenly lifted him up and carried him bridal style. “Jin, what do you think you’re doing?”
“Carrying you?” His lover answered innocently, heading towards the stairs.
“Where are we going?”
“Bed.”
Kazuya blushed hard, at the double meaning of that word. He hid his face on Jin’s shoulder and sighed.
-
Kazuya moved into Jin’s mansion when he turned twenty. He was legal and he had the right to make his own decisions, his family was supportive of it. A photobook of the couple was released in celebration of Kazuya’s twentieth birthday. Their love story was told, there were shots of them individually and together, as well as containing a few private pictures of them.
The photobook sold like hotcakes, resulting in a second print to be made.
My heart is with you
That’s the title of the photo book, it might be simple but it has a deep meaning.
-
Kazuya accepted the vanilla ice cream Jin handed him, licking it almost immediately. He smiled brightly when Jin handed out his hand to him, and thus with his free hand, Kazuya reached out for his lover’s hand and held it dearly. The both of them stepped out of the ice cream shop and walked along the streets hand in hand, not afraid of anything.
They no longer have to hide. They now have the freedom to act freely in public. There were no more restrictions. Everything was replaced by freedom and their desire to be natural. They can just be their own selves.
No façade, no pretence, and no lies.
The both of them did not even care if there are paparazzi hiding, eager to snap pictures of them and sell fake stories. Let them do whatever they want because the real truth only lies in them both.
No one, nothing except death could separate them again. The price of fame that the couple suffered made them stronger in the end. No matter what, they would go through any obstacles together.
Their hearts are after all tied to one another.
-
Author’s Note: I dedicated this epilogue to Rina, Heppy and Nura (March babies)!! With this Part 2 of the Epilogue posted, I conclude that ‘The Price of Fame’ has finally ended. I’m gonna miss writing this fic as much as you readers would miss reading it. Ah, but it was fun writing it! Now you know who ended up with Yamapi. I am after all, a Yamaki fan. *winks* Hope you all enjoyed this last update for TPOF from me!