When Nightmares Become Reality 2/5
Title: When Nightmares Become Reality
Author: write_my_dreams
Pairings: Asagi x Ruiza, Hakuei x MiA, Kisaki x Jui, eventual Asagi x Tsunehito
Genre: AU, crime, drama
Warning: Mentions of rape and murder, violence in later chapters, stalking.
Disclaimer: The band members portrayed do not belong to me and the only profit I make off of this piece of fanfiction is the personal satisfaction of completing another part of To Love a Vampire.
Rating: PG-13
Chapters: 2/5
Summary: Jin has gone rogue and is leaving a trail of victims whose bizarre deaths mystify the Tokyo police. Hakuei sends Asagi, Ruiza, and Jui out to eliminate Jin before he can take his eleventh victim: a retired figure skater named Tsunehito who now works as a bartender in Shinjuku.
Tsunehito left the pressure and glamour of figure skating behind. He's content with his simple life of bartending and attending Hide-Zou's lives. About a month ago, a man that Tsunehito and Hide-Zou have dubbed "The Stalker" changes everything.
Author's Comment: This chapter was an absolute nightmare to finish. I kept struggling with various sections so much that I eventually lost interest so finishing it became even more of a chore. It's at least done now though.
Tsunehito let out a tired yawn as he snuggled closer to Hide-Zou. It’d been a long day for both of them since Hide-Zou had performed with his band then gone to the bar where Tsunehito worked for the after party. The band often celebrated there; partially for the tasty drinks and atmosphere, partially for the gorgeous workers.
Once the party and Tsunehito’s shift were over, the tipsy pair had gone back to the redhead’s apartment for their tradition of pizza and bad vampire movies. A tradition they’d had for nine years. Tsunehito smiled as he recalled the first time he and Hide-Zou sat down together to watch a direct to DVD vampire movie and eat the pizza that Tsunehito probably shouldn’t have eaten since it wasn’t part of his skating diet. Nine years… so much had changed in that time. His parents catching him with Hide-Zou and casting him out for choosing a boy over his public image and his career, months where Tsunehito had struggled to keep up with skating and the expenses that now fell on his seventeen-year-old shoulders, ending his romantic relationship with Hide-Zou and moving into his own apartment, quitting skating, getting a job at the bar….
“Think vampires could be real?” Hide-Zou asked, pulling the redhead out of his memories. His arm was draped around Tsunehito’s thin shoulders and his black painted nails aimlessly tapped a tune onto his arm.
“No,” Tsunehito replied as he turned his head to look at Hide-Zou’s face. “Why?”
The brunette shrugged. “It’s just something I’ve been considering.” He hesitated then pulled his arm off Tsunehito’s shoulders and turned so they were facing each other. “Sometimes I wonder about Hiroki though. He’s only active at night. If we have meetings during the day, he only comes if it’s raining or the sun is blocked by clouds. He always says that sunlight makes him sick but that’s so fucking weird.”
Tsunehito rolled his eyes. “Zou, you and Hiroki are musicians. Have you considered that it’s part of Hiroki’s image to only go out at night? Besides, sensitivity to sunlight is a real disease. Lots of people have it and that doesn’t mean they’re vampires. If you’re going to add that he’s as pale as a vampire, take a good look in the mirror since your skin is just as light as his. And,” the redhead smirked as he pushed Hide-Zou back against the armrest of the couch then tugged his collar down to expose his neck. “No bites.”
“Why would I have bite marks on my neck?”
“Because Hiroki thinks you’re hot, idiot. If he was a vampire then your neck would be the first he’d go after.” Tsunehito yawned then lay down so he could use Hide-Zou’s thighs as a pillow. He wasn’t prepared to have a discussion like this when it was this late. Or early. Whatever.
Hide-Zou sighed as he dropped his hand to Tsunehito’s hair, combing his fingers through crimson strands. “Trying to play matchmaker now?”
“At least I’m setting you up with someone good. I should do worse after that awful blind date you set me up on last month.” Tsunehito grimaced. Though he’d left the skating world behind, Hide-Zou had introduced him to a hockey player who was the friend of a friend. The guy turned out to be a huge ass. He’d asked Tsunehito if he was still “bendy” like in his skating days, mocked figure skating, then added insult to injury by telling Tsunehito that “it was a good thing he quit such a stupid sport.”
“Is that so?” the redhead retorted as he rose from his seat, not caring if he was making a scene in the restaurant. “Well since quitting is apparently a good thing, I quit this pathetic excuse for a date. You lumber around on the ice and slap pucks around while I have spent years learning how to skate a flawless routine. Any idiot can put on padding and send a puck across the ice. It takes practice and talent to land a quadruple axel.” He’d stormed out with his head held high then promptly called his best friend to rant to him about the horrible date.
Hide-Zou laughed. “Good point. I didn’t realize he was so bad.”
Tsunehito yawned again. “Reminds me of my first Olympics. Remember how you were so worried I’d let some giant hockey player fuck me?”
“That’s because I liked you.” Hide-Zou smoothed Tsunehito’s hair back. “I was afraid that you would find someone else. Someone more interesting than a lowly teenager with big dreams and a guitar.”
“Impossible.” Tsunehito had been surrounded by athletes who all had big dreams of taking home a gold medal. But none of them had Hide-Zou’s spark. Going home to Japan and his best friend had been a relief.
Tsunehito shifted into a more comfortable position and closed his eyes. Hide-Zou put up with being his pillow for a few minutes before shaking the redhead’s shoulder. “Tsune, you have a bed. Go to sleep and I’ll go home.” He ignored Tsunehito’s whine of protest when he moved him off his lap then got up off the couch. Hide-Zou stretched then walked over to shut off the TV. “Night, Tsune.”
“Wait.” The redhead rolled off of the couch, rubbing his tired eyes. “I’ll walk you to,” he yawned, “the door.”
Hide-Zou snorted. “I think I should walk you to bed instead.”
“Sounds suggestive. Bet Hiroki would like to walk you to bed,” Tsunehito smirked as his best friend rolled his eyes.
“Funny.” Hide-Zou headed towards the door and pulled his boots on. He brushed his hair back then grabbed his jacket, slipping his arms into it before grabbing Tsunehito and bringing him into an embrace. “Quit playing Cupid or I’ll find someone to set you up with, you little brat. Maybe another hockey player.”
“Screw you,” Tsunehito muttered.
Hide-Zou smirked. “Did that years ago. Many times actually.”
It was the redhead’s turn to roll his eyes now. “Time for you to go home now, Zou.” He returned the embrace then drew back. “Night.”
Hide-Zou said goodbye then headed out the door. Tsunehito locked the door and headed to his bedroom. He’d changed into sweatpants and a t-shirt after work so didn’t need to bother with putting on pajamas. The redhead fell onto his bed, drawing the pillow close to his face. Mm… so cozy. It didn’t take long for his tired body to give in to a deep sleep.
* * *
The bar where Tsunehito worked always had a good crowd, whether it was a weekday or not. That was one of the perks of working in Shinjuku where there were always crowds of people out shopping or looking to have a good time. He’d lost track of how many drinks he’d made for customers tonight and how many times he’d had to tell the various perverts who wanted to fuck him that no, he was not interested and that he didn’t go out with customers. Did they think he was going to be an easy fuck just because he worked as a bartender? The redhead blew a piece of hair out of his face in irritation as he turned back to the bar with a strawberry margarita in one hand and a saketini in the other. As if his standards would ever be low enough to let someone pick him up at work. The perverts were, unfortunately, more common than Tsunehito would like but he was good at dealing with them. And if they were too drunk and putting up a fuss over being rejected, Tsunehito just had to call his boss over and he would happily take care of the problem.
Pushing thoughts of perverts aside, Tsunehito smiled as he set the saketini in front of the sweet Lolita who had ordered it. “Here’s your saketini.”
“Thank you.” She took the drink and sipped it then resumed clacking her fake nails against her phone. Tsunehito turned away from her to give the strawberry margarita to a man who had either robbed a clown or gotten dressed in the dark. Judging by his blue-green hair, he was an actor or a musician. Tsunehito saw all sorts in here.
“Aren’t I lucky,” a low, sultry voice greeted the redhead and sent a chill down his spine, “my favorite bartender is working tonight.”
Tsunehito swallowed. Shit. He’d hoped Jin wouldn’t come tonight. He should’ve known better since Jin had quickly become a regular after his first visit a month ago. He’d given the redhead the creeps then, a sensation that was amplified now. Tsunehito and Hide-Zou had quickly nicknamed Jin “The Stalker” since he always came on nights when Tsunehito worked. Jin sat at the bar, finding excuses to talk to the redhead and staying throughout the duration of his shift. Sometimes he would catch Tsunehito’s hand or wrist when he was giving Jin his drink. Jin’s hands were always cold and his grip unnaturally strong, so strong that Tsunehito could never free himself. Jin always released him with a mocking smile then leaned closer to remind him of how beautiful he was and how there was a “charming” love hotel two blocks away. Other times Jin left his phone number on napkins or attempted to give the redhead an absurd amount of money in return for making his drinks. Gifts that Tsunehito never accepted. Sure he could use the extra money but accepting it would only encourage Jin, show him that his advances were welcome when they were anything but.
Taking a breath, the redhead kept his expression neutral as he turned to face Jin. He’d dressed simply in black jeans and a leather jacket, leaving his blonde and black hair unstyled. Dark eyes scanned Tsunehito’s body as his lips curved into a lecherous smirk. Jin always reminded Tsunehito of a predator. Only instead of teeth and claws Jin used his looks as a weapon against his prey. Fortunately, Tsunehito wouldn’t have to put up with him for long. His shift ended in twenty minutes.
“How long are you working tonight, beautiful?”
“Twenty minutes.”
Jin huffed in disappointment. “A mere twenty minutes with my favorite bartender. I should come earlier tomorrow.”
Tsunehito ignored him, glancing over as customers asked for refills on their beers. He looked back at Jin. “Do you need a menu or do you know what you’d like?”
Jin smirked again as he made another show of scanning the redhead’s body. “You know what I would like.”
“I’m not on the menu,” Tsunehito said shortly.
“A pity. Why don’t you give me an orgasm? You make good orgasms,” Jin said, tongue darting out to wet his lips.
Tsunehito rolled his eyes at the blatant innuendo. Sure, because he’d never heard that before. “All right.” Turning away from Jin was a relief although he could still feel those eyes on him, surely checking out his ass. Tsunehito kept his composure as he brought the customers their beers then turned back to the bar so he could mix Jin’s orgasm for him. It wasn’t the first suggestive drink Jin had ordered from him although it seemed to be his favorite. Reluctantly, Tsunehito returned to Jin and set the shot in front of him quickly drawing his hand back to prevent the chance of being touched. “Tell me if you need another drink.”
Jin tilted his head as he gave the redhead a sugary sweet smile that didn’t match the cruel glint to his eyes. “What’s the matter, Tsune, you don’t want to stay and chat?”
The use of his nickname made the redhead bristle. “I prefer Tsunehito,” he said coolly. “And as you can see I have other customers to attend to so no, I’m unable to stay and chat tonight. Or any night.”
Jin glanced at the other customers all seated at the bar. “I see that.” He shrugged his thin shoulders and raised the shot glass to his lips, knocking it back and setting the empty glass down. Tsunehito reached for the glass then flinched as Jin’s fingers curled around his wrist, thumb caressing the delicate skin over his veins. “Tell me, Tsune, must we play the same game tonight or will you finally say yes to me?”
The redhead gritted his teeth as he tried to pull free. Jin had a viselike grip on him despite his slender frame. “You know the answer.”
“Mm, it’s a yes then. Perfect,” Jin grinned as he pulled Tsunehito closer forcing him to lean over the bar towards him. The display made his pulse quicken as he made another futile attempt to break free.
Hissing in displeasure, Tsunehito fixed Jin with a glare. “My answer is no. It will always be no. Now let go of me or I’ll have you kicked out for harassing me.” Things had never escalated to that level before but Jin was getting pushier with every visit. Tonight could be the night where Tsunehito asked the bouncer to kick Jin out.
Jin gave him his usual mocking smile then released him. “Such fire.”
Tsunehito straightened, smoothing down his shirt and vest as he held his head high. “I’m a redhead. What did you expect?” he headed to the other end of the bar to take more drink orders. The rest of his shift passed quickly since there was a steady stream of customers who kept him busy. Nights like this could be stressful but Tsunehito preferred them. The rush kept him busy, denying Jin or other perverts the opportunity to harass him.
Five minutes to go and with the latest round of drinks delivered, Tsunehito glanced up to see an absolutely gorgeous man approaching the bar. He wore black jeans and an open black blazer over a rose printed shirt. His long, silky black hair was streaked with blonde and pulled forward over his shoulders. Tsunehito had always had a thing for guys with long hair. He’d been in heaven when Hide-Zou grew his out. Despite his preferences, this man was still a customer and Tsunehito knew better. Their eyes met and he smiled at Tsunehito, a warm smile that was reflected in his eyes. The redhead returned the smile as he indicated the open seat in front of him. The customer took the offered seat.
Tsunehito leaned closer so they could speak over the other customers. “What can I get for you today?”
“Do you have red wine?”
A wine drinker then. He looked too sophisticated to have a simple beer or order suggestive drinks as Jin would. “We do,” the redhead replied. He reached behind the bar to take out their drink menu. Opening it to the wines, Tsunehito set it in front of him. “I’ll give you some time to decide. My name is Tsunehito,” he tapped the nametag pinned to his black vest, “so let me know when you’ve made your decision.”
“Thank you, Tsunehito.” The customer smiled then glanced down at the menu. It seemed he’d only looked at it for a second before he’d closed it, raising his gaze to meet the redhead’s again. “I’ll take a glass of pinot noir.”
Pinot noir was a popular import that Tsunehito often served to wine-drinking customers. “One of your favorites?” he asked, shifting as he felt someone watching him. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Jin looking at them through narrowed eyes. Suspicion and irritation mingled in his expression. Tsunehito had seen Jin irritated with customers for taking his attention but why would Jin be suspicious of this man? How bizarre.
“It is,” the customer replied, pulling Tsunehito’s attention back to him. He hesitated then leaned forward. “Tsunehito, is that man bothering you? He’s been staring at you ever since I came into the bar.” He gave the redhead a gentle smile. “My name is Asagi. If he’s upsetting you, I can help.”
Asagi’s offer caught Tsunehito off guard. He forced himself to smile though. “Thank you, Asagi. It’s kind of you to offer but I can handle Jin.”
*
Sighing softly, Tsunehito stepped out into the cool night air. It was a relief to be done with work. The palpable tension between Asagi and Jin had been so uncomfortable. The two clearly knew and disliked each other. So long as they didn’t cause problems for the bar and its customers, Tsunehito wouldn’t concern himself with them since he was off the clock and heading home.
As he walked to the train station he could feel his tension vanishing. The tranquility didn’t last long; as he neared the train station Tsunehito felt a sudden stab of paranoid unease. His pulse quickened and he pushed his hands into his jacket pockets, fingers curling around his keys as his gaze scanned the Shinjuku crowds for familiar faces from the bar. This wasn’t the first time someone had followed him and triggered uneasy feelings. Tsunehito had been on his own for a few years so his instincts were good enough that he knew not to dismiss this feeling as simple paranoia. He moved to the edge of the sidewalk then crouched down to feign adjusting his shoelaces, glancing through his bangs at the people around him. No one gave off stalker vibes or looked familiar. Fuck… had Jin or some other creep followed him? Sighing, Tsunehito got up and continued walking. At least he’d reach the busy Shinjuku station soon and could hopefully lose his stalker there.
The redhead rushed across the street and up to the station. It was crowded as usual-students, tourists, drunks wandering home, unfortunate workers doing overtime… Tsunehito merged with the crowd, nervously smoothing his red hair down. He wished his jacket had a hood so he could hide his hair. There weren’t many redheads in this sea of brunettes, making the red dye he favored too distinctive. Tsunehito tried to act normal as he entered the station and swiped his Suica card. He pushed his hands back into his pockets as he headed towards his platform and up the stairs. Luckily his train was just pulling into the station. Perfect! Tsunehito would board the train and leave his stalker behind. It was surely Jin… he’d wanted to fuck Tsunehito for weeks.
Frustrated, the redhead raked his fingers through his hair. Why was this happening to him? He kept himself out of trouble and hadn’t been in the spotlight since he retired from competitive skating. He didn’t deserve this… Tsunehito huffed in displeasure as he boarded the train excusing himself as he made his way to the rear of the car. If the stalker was there, he didn’t want to be caught at the door with him. Tsunehito grasped one of the rings hanging from the ceiling of the car as he watched the doors. A few more people crowded into the train and then a voice came over the loudspeaker to announce that the doors were closing. Just as they started to close, Jin entered the car. The redhead gritted his teeth as he ducked his head. Shit! If Jin had arrived seconds later, he would’ve had to take the following train. Tsunehito could’ve had a head start but now he was stuck with Jin and didn’t dare go home. He didn’t want to lead the other man to his apartment. He tightened his grip on the ring as he looked out the windows, calculating how to get out of this situation. Should he get off at a less crowded station? It could be risky since it would make it easier for Jin to find him. Then again, Tsunehito believed he could lose Jin in Shinjuku. Jin had been able to find him despite the crowds so if they were in a quieter area, Tsunehito would have a better idea of where his stalker was so he could give him the slip.
The redhead waited until the train pulled into a station where only a few people were waiting. He moved towards the door, adjusting his jacket as he stepped outside the train. He didn’t look back as he headed to the stairs leading down from the platform and into the main station. Once he reached the bottom, he glanced back to see Jin leaving the train. Fuck. His plan was working… now Tsunehito just had to figure out how to get rid of Jin. Switch trains? Leave the station then find a place to hide out in? Try to catch a taxi? Cursing his luck, Tsunehito headed towards the exit. He didn’t want to stay in the station since Jin would easily catch him then and he couldn’t trust the other man to behave in public.
Outside, he curled his fingers around his keys for security again as he glanced ahead to look for possible shelter. Bar, club, mall… any were good so long as he could get inside one and thus escape from Jin. As he walked the redhead had to bite his lip to keep from glancing back to see if Jin was still there or not. Tsunehito was so on edge that he didn’t trust his senses tonight. The dark alley between a konbini and a closed umbrella shop had him moving faster and moving closer to the street. Too much happened in alleys in the movies he liked. Tsunehito had barely taken a step past the alley when a cold hand clamped over his mouth, an arm sliding around his waist and dragging him back into the alley. Tsunehito’s shout was muffled by the hand over his mouth but he immediately lashed out, kicking behind him and trying to get his hand up so he could stab Jin with his keys. Jin’s arm was tight around his waist though keeping Tsunehito’s arms pinned tight to his sides. Moments later the redhead was turned and pushed against the cold brick of the alley, face to face with Jin whose eyes glittered with malice as he studied his captive.
“Did you really believe you could get away from me?”
Tsunehito bit Jin’s hand in response as he struggled to break free. Jin laughed in response and pressed him more firmly against the wall moving closer so that their bodies were brushing together. “Careful who you bite,” he warned as he pulled his hand back to brush his thumb over Tsunehito’s mouth, smirking as he fisted his hand in soft red hair yanking his head back to bare his neck. The redhead struggled more intently as Jin’s lips grazed his neck.
“Let him go, Jin.” A commanding voice ordered. Tsunehito’s eyes flicked from Jin to see Asagi from the bar standing nearby. Where had he come from? Had he been there all along…? What the hell was going on? Tsunehito started to struggle again as Jin turned to face Asagi without moving from the redhead.
“And who will make me? You?” Jin scoffed as he pulled Tsunehito’s head further back. “This one is mine. Find your own prey.”
“GET OFF ME!” Tsunehito shouted hoping that passersby would hear him. Jin growled and raised a hand to hit him. The blow never landed. As the redhead flinched, Asagi was at Jin’s side seizing his wrist and dragging him away from Tsunehito. Furious, Jin released the redhead and whirled on Asagi, opening his mouth to show… wait. Fangs? Were those really fangs? Wide-eyed, Tsunehito watched them as he tried to force his unwilling legs to move. To carry him out of this alley and back to the safety of the train station where he could get away from Jin and protect himself.
“Do not toy with me,” Jin hissed. “I knew I wanted him the moment I set eyes on him and you dare to stop me from feeding?”
Asagi slammed Jin up against the alley wall, making Tsunehito flinch. “You’ve killed enough already, Jin. The body count is the reason I and my partners are here.” Asagi had barely finished speaking before two pale, slim blondes practically appeared in the alley.
The taller one glanced briefly at Asagi before opening his mouth to reveal fangs. “Take Tsunehito and get out of here. Ruiza and I can handle Jin.” The other blonde--Ruiza-moved to Asagi’s side, growling something Tsunehito couldn’t catch. His legs still wouldn’t move and his eyes were wide in shock as he studied the four men. Finally he managed to wrench himself away from the wall as Asagi started moving towards him.
“S-Stay away from me,” the redhead ordered, hating how his voice cracked. He jumped when Asagi was abruptly at his side, a supportive hand on his waist. “Let go!”
Asagi sighed softly. “I’m sorry for this, but you’re not safe.” He swept Tsunehito off his feet and up into his arms. The redhead started to protest then clutched the vampire as he took off down the street, his speed making Tsunehito’s eyes water and his head spin. He shut his eyes and pressed his face into Asagi’s shirt.
What had he gotten himself into?
Note
I've had a friend over and we've been writing Supernatural fanfiction together. It's honestly refreshing to write in a completely different fandom and it's a clear sign that I was in desperate need of a break from writing jrock fics. While I struggled with this chapter, I toyed with the idea of quitting fanfiction entirely. Dropping this series. Writing another. I'm not sure. I've been planning to quit writing fanfic for a while but there's a part of me that would like to finish the vampire series. There's also a part of me that says "Why bother?" It's only fanfic.
So, I'm going on a hiatus. I don't know when I'll write chapter 3 or if I even will at all. If I decide that I'm done with this series then I will post the bits I've written from further on in To Love a Vampire. I took the time to write them so I might as well post them even if they're unfinished.
Author: write_my_dreams
Pairings: Asagi x Ruiza, Hakuei x MiA, Kisaki x Jui, eventual Asagi x Tsunehito
Genre: AU, crime, drama
Warning: Mentions of rape and murder, violence in later chapters, stalking.
Disclaimer: The band members portrayed do not belong to me and the only profit I make off of this piece of fanfiction is the personal satisfaction of completing another part of To Love a Vampire.
Rating: PG-13
Chapters: 2/5
Summary: Jin has gone rogue and is leaving a trail of victims whose bizarre deaths mystify the Tokyo police. Hakuei sends Asagi, Ruiza, and Jui out to eliminate Jin before he can take his eleventh victim: a retired figure skater named Tsunehito who now works as a bartender in Shinjuku.
Tsunehito left the pressure and glamour of figure skating behind. He's content with his simple life of bartending and attending Hide-Zou's lives. About a month ago, a man that Tsunehito and Hide-Zou have dubbed "The Stalker" changes everything.
Author's Comment: This chapter was an absolute nightmare to finish. I kept struggling with various sections so much that I eventually lost interest so finishing it became even more of a chore. It's at least done now though.
Tsunehito let out a tired yawn as he snuggled closer to Hide-Zou. It’d been a long day for both of them since Hide-Zou had performed with his band then gone to the bar where Tsunehito worked for the after party. The band often celebrated there; partially for the tasty drinks and atmosphere, partially for the gorgeous workers.
Once the party and Tsunehito’s shift were over, the tipsy pair had gone back to the redhead’s apartment for their tradition of pizza and bad vampire movies. A tradition they’d had for nine years. Tsunehito smiled as he recalled the first time he and Hide-Zou sat down together to watch a direct to DVD vampire movie and eat the pizza that Tsunehito probably shouldn’t have eaten since it wasn’t part of his skating diet. Nine years… so much had changed in that time. His parents catching him with Hide-Zou and casting him out for choosing a boy over his public image and his career, months where Tsunehito had struggled to keep up with skating and the expenses that now fell on his seventeen-year-old shoulders, ending his romantic relationship with Hide-Zou and moving into his own apartment, quitting skating, getting a job at the bar….
“Think vampires could be real?” Hide-Zou asked, pulling the redhead out of his memories. His arm was draped around Tsunehito’s thin shoulders and his black painted nails aimlessly tapped a tune onto his arm.
“No,” Tsunehito replied as he turned his head to look at Hide-Zou’s face. “Why?”
The brunette shrugged. “It’s just something I’ve been considering.” He hesitated then pulled his arm off Tsunehito’s shoulders and turned so they were facing each other. “Sometimes I wonder about Hiroki though. He’s only active at night. If we have meetings during the day, he only comes if it’s raining or the sun is blocked by clouds. He always says that sunlight makes him sick but that’s so fucking weird.”
Tsunehito rolled his eyes. “Zou, you and Hiroki are musicians. Have you considered that it’s part of Hiroki’s image to only go out at night? Besides, sensitivity to sunlight is a real disease. Lots of people have it and that doesn’t mean they’re vampires. If you’re going to add that he’s as pale as a vampire, take a good look in the mirror since your skin is just as light as his. And,” the redhead smirked as he pushed Hide-Zou back against the armrest of the couch then tugged his collar down to expose his neck. “No bites.”
“Why would I have bite marks on my neck?”
“Because Hiroki thinks you’re hot, idiot. If he was a vampire then your neck would be the first he’d go after.” Tsunehito yawned then lay down so he could use Hide-Zou’s thighs as a pillow. He wasn’t prepared to have a discussion like this when it was this late. Or early. Whatever.
Hide-Zou sighed as he dropped his hand to Tsunehito’s hair, combing his fingers through crimson strands. “Trying to play matchmaker now?”
“At least I’m setting you up with someone good. I should do worse after that awful blind date you set me up on last month.” Tsunehito grimaced. Though he’d left the skating world behind, Hide-Zou had introduced him to a hockey player who was the friend of a friend. The guy turned out to be a huge ass. He’d asked Tsunehito if he was still “bendy” like in his skating days, mocked figure skating, then added insult to injury by telling Tsunehito that “it was a good thing he quit such a stupid sport.”
“Is that so?” the redhead retorted as he rose from his seat, not caring if he was making a scene in the restaurant. “Well since quitting is apparently a good thing, I quit this pathetic excuse for a date. You lumber around on the ice and slap pucks around while I have spent years learning how to skate a flawless routine. Any idiot can put on padding and send a puck across the ice. It takes practice and talent to land a quadruple axel.” He’d stormed out with his head held high then promptly called his best friend to rant to him about the horrible date.
Hide-Zou laughed. “Good point. I didn’t realize he was so bad.”
Tsunehito yawned again. “Reminds me of my first Olympics. Remember how you were so worried I’d let some giant hockey player fuck me?”
“That’s because I liked you.” Hide-Zou smoothed Tsunehito’s hair back. “I was afraid that you would find someone else. Someone more interesting than a lowly teenager with big dreams and a guitar.”
“Impossible.” Tsunehito had been surrounded by athletes who all had big dreams of taking home a gold medal. But none of them had Hide-Zou’s spark. Going home to Japan and his best friend had been a relief.
Tsunehito shifted into a more comfortable position and closed his eyes. Hide-Zou put up with being his pillow for a few minutes before shaking the redhead’s shoulder. “Tsune, you have a bed. Go to sleep and I’ll go home.” He ignored Tsunehito’s whine of protest when he moved him off his lap then got up off the couch. Hide-Zou stretched then walked over to shut off the TV. “Night, Tsune.”
“Wait.” The redhead rolled off of the couch, rubbing his tired eyes. “I’ll walk you to,” he yawned, “the door.”
Hide-Zou snorted. “I think I should walk you to bed instead.”
“Sounds suggestive. Bet Hiroki would like to walk you to bed,” Tsunehito smirked as his best friend rolled his eyes.
“Funny.” Hide-Zou headed towards the door and pulled his boots on. He brushed his hair back then grabbed his jacket, slipping his arms into it before grabbing Tsunehito and bringing him into an embrace. “Quit playing Cupid or I’ll find someone to set you up with, you little brat. Maybe another hockey player.”
“Screw you,” Tsunehito muttered.
Hide-Zou smirked. “Did that years ago. Many times actually.”
It was the redhead’s turn to roll his eyes now. “Time for you to go home now, Zou.” He returned the embrace then drew back. “Night.”
Hide-Zou said goodbye then headed out the door. Tsunehito locked the door and headed to his bedroom. He’d changed into sweatpants and a t-shirt after work so didn’t need to bother with putting on pajamas. The redhead fell onto his bed, drawing the pillow close to his face. Mm… so cozy. It didn’t take long for his tired body to give in to a deep sleep.
* * *
The bar where Tsunehito worked always had a good crowd, whether it was a weekday or not. That was one of the perks of working in Shinjuku where there were always crowds of people out shopping or looking to have a good time. He’d lost track of how many drinks he’d made for customers tonight and how many times he’d had to tell the various perverts who wanted to fuck him that no, he was not interested and that he didn’t go out with customers. Did they think he was going to be an easy fuck just because he worked as a bartender? The redhead blew a piece of hair out of his face in irritation as he turned back to the bar with a strawberry margarita in one hand and a saketini in the other. As if his standards would ever be low enough to let someone pick him up at work. The perverts were, unfortunately, more common than Tsunehito would like but he was good at dealing with them. And if they were too drunk and putting up a fuss over being rejected, Tsunehito just had to call his boss over and he would happily take care of the problem.
Pushing thoughts of perverts aside, Tsunehito smiled as he set the saketini in front of the sweet Lolita who had ordered it. “Here’s your saketini.”
“Thank you.” She took the drink and sipped it then resumed clacking her fake nails against her phone. Tsunehito turned away from her to give the strawberry margarita to a man who had either robbed a clown or gotten dressed in the dark. Judging by his blue-green hair, he was an actor or a musician. Tsunehito saw all sorts in here.
“Aren’t I lucky,” a low, sultry voice greeted the redhead and sent a chill down his spine, “my favorite bartender is working tonight.”
Tsunehito swallowed. Shit. He’d hoped Jin wouldn’t come tonight. He should’ve known better since Jin had quickly become a regular after his first visit a month ago. He’d given the redhead the creeps then, a sensation that was amplified now. Tsunehito and Hide-Zou had quickly nicknamed Jin “The Stalker” since he always came on nights when Tsunehito worked. Jin sat at the bar, finding excuses to talk to the redhead and staying throughout the duration of his shift. Sometimes he would catch Tsunehito’s hand or wrist when he was giving Jin his drink. Jin’s hands were always cold and his grip unnaturally strong, so strong that Tsunehito could never free himself. Jin always released him with a mocking smile then leaned closer to remind him of how beautiful he was and how there was a “charming” love hotel two blocks away. Other times Jin left his phone number on napkins or attempted to give the redhead an absurd amount of money in return for making his drinks. Gifts that Tsunehito never accepted. Sure he could use the extra money but accepting it would only encourage Jin, show him that his advances were welcome when they were anything but.
Taking a breath, the redhead kept his expression neutral as he turned to face Jin. He’d dressed simply in black jeans and a leather jacket, leaving his blonde and black hair unstyled. Dark eyes scanned Tsunehito’s body as his lips curved into a lecherous smirk. Jin always reminded Tsunehito of a predator. Only instead of teeth and claws Jin used his looks as a weapon against his prey. Fortunately, Tsunehito wouldn’t have to put up with him for long. His shift ended in twenty minutes.
“How long are you working tonight, beautiful?”
“Twenty minutes.”
Jin huffed in disappointment. “A mere twenty minutes with my favorite bartender. I should come earlier tomorrow.”
Tsunehito ignored him, glancing over as customers asked for refills on their beers. He looked back at Jin. “Do you need a menu or do you know what you’d like?”
Jin smirked again as he made another show of scanning the redhead’s body. “You know what I would like.”
“I’m not on the menu,” Tsunehito said shortly.
“A pity. Why don’t you give me an orgasm? You make good orgasms,” Jin said, tongue darting out to wet his lips.
Tsunehito rolled his eyes at the blatant innuendo. Sure, because he’d never heard that before. “All right.” Turning away from Jin was a relief although he could still feel those eyes on him, surely checking out his ass. Tsunehito kept his composure as he brought the customers their beers then turned back to the bar so he could mix Jin’s orgasm for him. It wasn’t the first suggestive drink Jin had ordered from him although it seemed to be his favorite. Reluctantly, Tsunehito returned to Jin and set the shot in front of him quickly drawing his hand back to prevent the chance of being touched. “Tell me if you need another drink.”
Jin tilted his head as he gave the redhead a sugary sweet smile that didn’t match the cruel glint to his eyes. “What’s the matter, Tsune, you don’t want to stay and chat?”
The use of his nickname made the redhead bristle. “I prefer Tsunehito,” he said coolly. “And as you can see I have other customers to attend to so no, I’m unable to stay and chat tonight. Or any night.”
Jin glanced at the other customers all seated at the bar. “I see that.” He shrugged his thin shoulders and raised the shot glass to his lips, knocking it back and setting the empty glass down. Tsunehito reached for the glass then flinched as Jin’s fingers curled around his wrist, thumb caressing the delicate skin over his veins. “Tell me, Tsune, must we play the same game tonight or will you finally say yes to me?”
The redhead gritted his teeth as he tried to pull free. Jin had a viselike grip on him despite his slender frame. “You know the answer.”
“Mm, it’s a yes then. Perfect,” Jin grinned as he pulled Tsunehito closer forcing him to lean over the bar towards him. The display made his pulse quicken as he made another futile attempt to break free.
Hissing in displeasure, Tsunehito fixed Jin with a glare. “My answer is no. It will always be no. Now let go of me or I’ll have you kicked out for harassing me.” Things had never escalated to that level before but Jin was getting pushier with every visit. Tonight could be the night where Tsunehito asked the bouncer to kick Jin out.
Jin gave him his usual mocking smile then released him. “Such fire.”
Tsunehito straightened, smoothing down his shirt and vest as he held his head high. “I’m a redhead. What did you expect?” he headed to the other end of the bar to take more drink orders. The rest of his shift passed quickly since there was a steady stream of customers who kept him busy. Nights like this could be stressful but Tsunehito preferred them. The rush kept him busy, denying Jin or other perverts the opportunity to harass him.
Five minutes to go and with the latest round of drinks delivered, Tsunehito glanced up to see an absolutely gorgeous man approaching the bar. He wore black jeans and an open black blazer over a rose printed shirt. His long, silky black hair was streaked with blonde and pulled forward over his shoulders. Tsunehito had always had a thing for guys with long hair. He’d been in heaven when Hide-Zou grew his out. Despite his preferences, this man was still a customer and Tsunehito knew better. Their eyes met and he smiled at Tsunehito, a warm smile that was reflected in his eyes. The redhead returned the smile as he indicated the open seat in front of him. The customer took the offered seat.
Tsunehito leaned closer so they could speak over the other customers. “What can I get for you today?”
“Do you have red wine?”
A wine drinker then. He looked too sophisticated to have a simple beer or order suggestive drinks as Jin would. “We do,” the redhead replied. He reached behind the bar to take out their drink menu. Opening it to the wines, Tsunehito set it in front of him. “I’ll give you some time to decide. My name is Tsunehito,” he tapped the nametag pinned to his black vest, “so let me know when you’ve made your decision.”
“Thank you, Tsunehito.” The customer smiled then glanced down at the menu. It seemed he’d only looked at it for a second before he’d closed it, raising his gaze to meet the redhead’s again. “I’ll take a glass of pinot noir.”
Pinot noir was a popular import that Tsunehito often served to wine-drinking customers. “One of your favorites?” he asked, shifting as he felt someone watching him. Out of the corner of his eye he could see Jin looking at them through narrowed eyes. Suspicion and irritation mingled in his expression. Tsunehito had seen Jin irritated with customers for taking his attention but why would Jin be suspicious of this man? How bizarre.
“It is,” the customer replied, pulling Tsunehito’s attention back to him. He hesitated then leaned forward. “Tsunehito, is that man bothering you? He’s been staring at you ever since I came into the bar.” He gave the redhead a gentle smile. “My name is Asagi. If he’s upsetting you, I can help.”
Asagi’s offer caught Tsunehito off guard. He forced himself to smile though. “Thank you, Asagi. It’s kind of you to offer but I can handle Jin.”
*
Sighing softly, Tsunehito stepped out into the cool night air. It was a relief to be done with work. The palpable tension between Asagi and Jin had been so uncomfortable. The two clearly knew and disliked each other. So long as they didn’t cause problems for the bar and its customers, Tsunehito wouldn’t concern himself with them since he was off the clock and heading home.
As he walked to the train station he could feel his tension vanishing. The tranquility didn’t last long; as he neared the train station Tsunehito felt a sudden stab of paranoid unease. His pulse quickened and he pushed his hands into his jacket pockets, fingers curling around his keys as his gaze scanned the Shinjuku crowds for familiar faces from the bar. This wasn’t the first time someone had followed him and triggered uneasy feelings. Tsunehito had been on his own for a few years so his instincts were good enough that he knew not to dismiss this feeling as simple paranoia. He moved to the edge of the sidewalk then crouched down to feign adjusting his shoelaces, glancing through his bangs at the people around him. No one gave off stalker vibes or looked familiar. Fuck… had Jin or some other creep followed him? Sighing, Tsunehito got up and continued walking. At least he’d reach the busy Shinjuku station soon and could hopefully lose his stalker there.
The redhead rushed across the street and up to the station. It was crowded as usual-students, tourists, drunks wandering home, unfortunate workers doing overtime… Tsunehito merged with the crowd, nervously smoothing his red hair down. He wished his jacket had a hood so he could hide his hair. There weren’t many redheads in this sea of brunettes, making the red dye he favored too distinctive. Tsunehito tried to act normal as he entered the station and swiped his Suica card. He pushed his hands back into his pockets as he headed towards his platform and up the stairs. Luckily his train was just pulling into the station. Perfect! Tsunehito would board the train and leave his stalker behind. It was surely Jin… he’d wanted to fuck Tsunehito for weeks.
Frustrated, the redhead raked his fingers through his hair. Why was this happening to him? He kept himself out of trouble and hadn’t been in the spotlight since he retired from competitive skating. He didn’t deserve this… Tsunehito huffed in displeasure as he boarded the train excusing himself as he made his way to the rear of the car. If the stalker was there, he didn’t want to be caught at the door with him. Tsunehito grasped one of the rings hanging from the ceiling of the car as he watched the doors. A few more people crowded into the train and then a voice came over the loudspeaker to announce that the doors were closing. Just as they started to close, Jin entered the car. The redhead gritted his teeth as he ducked his head. Shit! If Jin had arrived seconds later, he would’ve had to take the following train. Tsunehito could’ve had a head start but now he was stuck with Jin and didn’t dare go home. He didn’t want to lead the other man to his apartment. He tightened his grip on the ring as he looked out the windows, calculating how to get out of this situation. Should he get off at a less crowded station? It could be risky since it would make it easier for Jin to find him. Then again, Tsunehito believed he could lose Jin in Shinjuku. Jin had been able to find him despite the crowds so if they were in a quieter area, Tsunehito would have a better idea of where his stalker was so he could give him the slip.
The redhead waited until the train pulled into a station where only a few people were waiting. He moved towards the door, adjusting his jacket as he stepped outside the train. He didn’t look back as he headed to the stairs leading down from the platform and into the main station. Once he reached the bottom, he glanced back to see Jin leaving the train. Fuck. His plan was working… now Tsunehito just had to figure out how to get rid of Jin. Switch trains? Leave the station then find a place to hide out in? Try to catch a taxi? Cursing his luck, Tsunehito headed towards the exit. He didn’t want to stay in the station since Jin would easily catch him then and he couldn’t trust the other man to behave in public.
Outside, he curled his fingers around his keys for security again as he glanced ahead to look for possible shelter. Bar, club, mall… any were good so long as he could get inside one and thus escape from Jin. As he walked the redhead had to bite his lip to keep from glancing back to see if Jin was still there or not. Tsunehito was so on edge that he didn’t trust his senses tonight. The dark alley between a konbini and a closed umbrella shop had him moving faster and moving closer to the street. Too much happened in alleys in the movies he liked. Tsunehito had barely taken a step past the alley when a cold hand clamped over his mouth, an arm sliding around his waist and dragging him back into the alley. Tsunehito’s shout was muffled by the hand over his mouth but he immediately lashed out, kicking behind him and trying to get his hand up so he could stab Jin with his keys. Jin’s arm was tight around his waist though keeping Tsunehito’s arms pinned tight to his sides. Moments later the redhead was turned and pushed against the cold brick of the alley, face to face with Jin whose eyes glittered with malice as he studied his captive.
“Did you really believe you could get away from me?”
Tsunehito bit Jin’s hand in response as he struggled to break free. Jin laughed in response and pressed him more firmly against the wall moving closer so that their bodies were brushing together. “Careful who you bite,” he warned as he pulled his hand back to brush his thumb over Tsunehito’s mouth, smirking as he fisted his hand in soft red hair yanking his head back to bare his neck. The redhead struggled more intently as Jin’s lips grazed his neck.
“Let him go, Jin.” A commanding voice ordered. Tsunehito’s eyes flicked from Jin to see Asagi from the bar standing nearby. Where had he come from? Had he been there all along…? What the hell was going on? Tsunehito started to struggle again as Jin turned to face Asagi without moving from the redhead.
“And who will make me? You?” Jin scoffed as he pulled Tsunehito’s head further back. “This one is mine. Find your own prey.”
“GET OFF ME!” Tsunehito shouted hoping that passersby would hear him. Jin growled and raised a hand to hit him. The blow never landed. As the redhead flinched, Asagi was at Jin’s side seizing his wrist and dragging him away from Tsunehito. Furious, Jin released the redhead and whirled on Asagi, opening his mouth to show… wait. Fangs? Were those really fangs? Wide-eyed, Tsunehito watched them as he tried to force his unwilling legs to move. To carry him out of this alley and back to the safety of the train station where he could get away from Jin and protect himself.
“Do not toy with me,” Jin hissed. “I knew I wanted him the moment I set eyes on him and you dare to stop me from feeding?”
Asagi slammed Jin up against the alley wall, making Tsunehito flinch. “You’ve killed enough already, Jin. The body count is the reason I and my partners are here.” Asagi had barely finished speaking before two pale, slim blondes practically appeared in the alley.
The taller one glanced briefly at Asagi before opening his mouth to reveal fangs. “Take Tsunehito and get out of here. Ruiza and I can handle Jin.” The other blonde--Ruiza-moved to Asagi’s side, growling something Tsunehito couldn’t catch. His legs still wouldn’t move and his eyes were wide in shock as he studied the four men. Finally he managed to wrench himself away from the wall as Asagi started moving towards him.
“S-Stay away from me,” the redhead ordered, hating how his voice cracked. He jumped when Asagi was abruptly at his side, a supportive hand on his waist. “Let go!”
Asagi sighed softly. “I’m sorry for this, but you’re not safe.” He swept Tsunehito off his feet and up into his arms. The redhead started to protest then clutched the vampire as he took off down the street, his speed making Tsunehito’s eyes water and his head spin. He shut his eyes and pressed his face into Asagi’s shirt.
What had he gotten himself into?
Note
I've had a friend over and we've been writing Supernatural fanfiction together. It's honestly refreshing to write in a completely different fandom and it's a clear sign that I was in desperate need of a break from writing jrock fics. While I struggled with this chapter, I toyed with the idea of quitting fanfiction entirely. Dropping this series. Writing another. I'm not sure. I've been planning to quit writing fanfic for a while but there's a part of me that would like to finish the vampire series. There's also a part of me that says "Why bother?" It's only fanfic.
So, I'm going on a hiatus. I don't know when I'll write chapter 3 or if I even will at all. If I decide that I'm done with this series then I will post the bits I've written from further on in To Love a Vampire. I took the time to write them so I might as well post them even if they're unfinished.