11:57 PM; June 6th, 20XX

  “Good girl, Maiko. I see why you were allowed to sneak into his bed, you take a cock well.” I held her face as I watched the reflection of Kazu’s cock disappearing in and out of Maiko’s slightly fuller frame, her face flushed as she moaned his name, my name, no name at times. She was a pretty pretty girl in heat with her wavy black hair and milky skin. I was in no rush to join, my desires well satiated earlier on by both Ken, Kazu and Kurenai. They had declined to join us for this round, their bodies spent. Kazu and I pouted, although that became a worry of the past as Maiko cried out through another orgasm. I had asked for her to bring whatever toy she might have had, her pleasure an important part of my plan to get her to back the fuck off. If I had her at her most vulnerable, I had her completely. If I had to be locked in this big castle, at least I’d be queen.

  Kazu groaned as he fucked her, his peachy skin just as flushed. His manicured nails dug into her skin as he plunged deeper, his lips desperate for mine as he threw his head back for my attention. I raked my free hand through his hair, yanking it just enough to get that sweet little whimper out of him that always excited me. I would hear it the most when he was under Ken, so it was evident that my strong and powerful Yakuza boss liked to be dominated just as much as he dominated. Giving him what he wanted, Maiko cried through yet another orgasm, that wand of hers truly breaking her down to constant pleasure, another one coming seconds after. Kazu moaned as he kissed me deeply, the constant squeezes probably a delight on his cock. “ I-I’m almost…there, oh f-fuck...” He groaned in the midst of the kiss, another cry from Maiko was the final squeeze he needed before I felt the shiver of his orgasm finally hit him. He held on to the kiss as he came, a small whimpering “I love you” quiet enough only for me to hear.

  Maiko slipped off him, her legs trembling as she stood up. Kazu pulled her to him, his cuddly side coming out. I giggled as she looked surprised, her face turning beet red as his arms wrapped around her waist. “N-Nagatsuchi-San, surely it’s time for me to make my leave…”

  “We used to cuddle after our romps, is the point not to recreate that at Airla’s request?”

  “I suppose…” She looked down shyly, her reflection just as beautiful as her reality.

  “Besides, you’ve had your romp with Kazu, you still have ways to do with me.” I came around to pull her away from Kazu, a chuckle from him as I led her to the bed to give him a chance to clean up. While yes, his cock was free range for my pleasure, only I and Kurenai enjoyed him au natural. Everyone else was to wear protection, I wasn’t in the mood to become a stepmother in case they didn’t believe in abortion. Helping her to the bed, I took no time sharing kisses with her as Kazu took his time, her rosy red lips plumper from the various other kisses we had shared through our night. Stopping to admire her, she blinked a few times back to me, those cheeks flaring up again.

  “Tell me, Maiko. How did you end up working for such a family?” I asked her as my hand trailed down her soft skin, the end goal being her warm and wet pussy. I was mindful of the nails I had, choosing to rub her clit as she whimpered softly. I kissed her skin as I looked up to her, awaiting a response.

  “I- I’m from the countryside… I wanted t- to… ah.” She struggled through her words, the shiver of her legs a giveaway that the slow circles I was forming on her were about to cause her to burst. Kazu joined me, his lips kissing up her leg as a small smirk peeked through. “Go ahead, Maiko, you’ve answered this question before, do it again.”

  “Mm— I wanted…to do something…different, so…I..ah, oh…” Her toes curled as Kazu kissed her calf, my fingers so desperate to enter her but no, not possible with the sharp talons I had a fondness for. Looking to Kazu, I darted my eyes down to his cock, the position I had in mind allowing me to get my fill and hers too. Finding myself in between them, Kazu soon found himself inside me as my tongue found itself in Maiko. “Finish that sentence for your lady, Maiko.” Kazu spoke up, his hands holding to my waist as he fucked me in slow thrusts, I just wanted to feel him inside of me, I wasn’t in need for an orgasm — yet.

  My tongue was deep in her, the sweet taste of her helping through the taste of the latex that the condom left behind. Her hands got in my hair, pushing me deeper every time I’d linger on her clit with the tip of my tongue. “…I worked in…love hotels… until I came across...etiquette schools and…worked my way to work under…a prestigious family…and now…here…I..a-am!” I tasted the change of her as she came, Kazu chuckling as he sped up just a bit, prodding into my g-spot as I continued through her orgasm. Maiko continued to whimper as she held onto my hair, ass off the bed as she called out my name and rolled herself on my tongue repeatedly. I dug my nails into her skin as I kept on, the ending of my birthday a much better one than my beginning.

  5:15 AM;

  “I have to report to the head housekeeper for my responsibilities today, I’ll be back to serve you your breakfast.” She whispered as she slid from my touch, the bed lighter as Kazu stood by the open doors and smoked a cigarette. I was in between asleep and awake, my body heavy as I laid splayed on the bed with the sheets covering my modesty. The rest of my night consisted of causing Maiko’s toes to curl with Kazu’s help, her body marked by various love bites left by either of us. The doors slid close as she left, Kazu making his way to the bed to caress my cheek.

  “I won’t know of my day until I speak to my father, I might have to step off villa grounds for a bit depending on the situation.”

  “Can I come with you? I don’t want to stay here without you.”

  “No, baby. You’re safest here until things calm down. I can’t risk you getting hurt, it wouldn’t do anyone good on what I’d do.”

  “What about you though, what if you get hurt?”

  “I’ll come back to you either way, I promise.” He closed the space between us, a gentle kiss included. My desire for him never wavered, even after spending the whole night in mix with another woman, I still fucking wanted him. I pulled off the sheets from my body, I was too well gifted to hide my nudity under covers. Kazu’s robe fell from his shoulders, his hand on my back as he allowed me to straddle him. I was so close to feeling him inside me yet again, the knock on the door said otherwise. “The elders are requesting your presence, Nagatsuchi-San.”

  “…fuck. Can it wait?” He questioned, their tall shadow seen from the doors.

  “N-no, sir. Your father prefers that you don’t keep them waiting.”

  “I’ll be out in a minute, away from my door.” He looked back to me, face visibly annoyed. I climbed off him, taking a seat next to him as I reached for the sheets. He pulled them away from me, his hand on my chin. “I want you in my robes today, nothing under. Any chance you get, send me a picture whatever way you please.”

  “Anything else I should be mindful of?”

  “Just remind me you love me with every single picture.”

  7:26 AM;

  I followed his request to the t, choosing one of his branded robes in his closet that he had been keen on wearing since our arrival here. The one I had chosen was a beautiful blood red with a silk interior embroidered with red maple leaves, Kazu’s preferred color. The robe was meant to be worn over clothes, yet I got around that by tying one of his silk ties around my waist and making it my own. Walking into the living room, I was greeted by Maiko placing down my breakfast, her uniform doing an awful job at hiding the visible marks on her neck.

  “Good morning, Airla-San.”

  “You don’t have to be so formal, Maiko. It’s just us.”

  “It’s part of my teachings, ma’am. I also have to keep in mind that one of the others might report to the head home keeper and then I’ll be reprimanded by Nagatsuchi-San’s mother. I’d like to avoid that.”

  “I’ll handle it if it comes to that, now come and sit, I’d like some company.” I patted the side next to me, the hesitation clear on her face as she held onto her serving tray. Sighing, she sat beside me, the shyness from last night still evident. I faced her as I smiled, pushing her bang with my finger to give me a good look of her brown eyes. “So tell me, besides the prestigiousness, what else attracted you to this family?” I asked as I placed a piece of banana in my mouth.

  “Do I need to say it?”

  “I’d like you to, yes.”

  “Kazuhito is a big part of my choice to work with his family. I remember coming across him in my etiquette classes, he was so kind. He put in a good name for me when I was looking for work, so I’m pretty loyal to him because of that.”

  “The loyalty is evident, you looked rather happy when presented with his cock.” Her eyes widened as she blushed, her hands holding tightly to the platter. I went on with my breakfast, taking a bowl of rice and eating my fill.

  “…I was in love with him for sometime. I let go of it once he was given a higher position in his family. I knew it wasn’t meant to be. Or more like his parents wouldn’t approve.”

  “Did you make sure his parents wouldn’t approve?”

  “Does it matter if they did? He would’ve still met you.” She faced me with a brave face, no shame in her words. I chuckled as I swallowed, looking back at her. I had never experienced something like this so head on, the men I had dealt with were more so obsessed with me than I was with them. I would make it so I was their only one, my time valuable. I never asked of past relationships because I didn’t care, but in this instance, I did.

  “You think he would’ve faltered with you if he met me? I don’t think Kazu’s that kind of person.”

  “He would have broken my heart to be with you. I would watch him leave me and follow you.”

  “I don’t believe that. He would’ve loved you till his last days.”

  “Airla, no. No he wouldn’t. Not for me. The love he has for you is so… deep, so warm. I was testament to it last night. The way he held me to how he held you? Starkly different. The way he made love to you? Out of a damn story. You are his, something I knew I wasn’t.”

  It was silly to question her, she was right. Look at the life I was living, the luxury, the intensity. No man would do that if he didn’t love a woman. Kazu loved me, no doubt about it. My phone pinged on the table, Kazu’s name popping up.

  “See, even the universe is telling you I’m right.”

  I ignored her comment, I didn’t need to dig in the knife anymore than she already was doing. Taking my phone, a smile grew on my face as I read the text.

  I miss you so much already. I’ll be at the Tokyo headquarters for the rest of the day, so go crazy with my card if you get bored. I can have people pick up your orders if you’d like.

  Can I order you and have them pick you up instead?

  I wish. I have to go, do send me pictures as promised.

  Of course. I love you.

  I watched as the bubbles popped up on my screen, disappearing after. He was so occupied, it broke my heart. I didn’t expect for this trip to end up this way, I really only expected to meet his parents, his elders and then make my way back to my mural. I grumbled at the thought of my abandoned work, the need to paint taking over. It took no time at all before I found myself on an art supplies website, ordering away.

  “Are you a painter?”

  “Mhm, that’s what got me hired by Kazu originally. I miss it. Would you be so kind to be my subject for the day? I’d love to sketch you.”

  “S-sure.”

  …

  I had ordered what I needed, a pencil and paper being enough until my order was delivered. I had informed Kazu, his quickness attractive as he sent one of his own to make sure I got what I wanted. Maiko had become my subject, her cheeks flushed as she modeled for me as I sketched. I had asked for complete privacy in regards to my art, getting Maiko to strip out of her uniform and getting the subject I wanted. She kept her hand over her breasts, shy as ever. I chuckled as I looked up, my hand waving.

  “I’ve seen all I can in regards to your body, Maiko. Hands down please.”

  “W-what if someone walks in?”

  “They know not to, Yami and Yama are outside of our door just in case. You’re okay.” I assured her, my hand busy as I shaded her features. Her hands went down slowly, the milkiness of her skin contrasting her pink nipples. They were slowly hardening with each stroke of my pencil, her eyes catching mine a few times as I kept on. I smiled the times I would catch her staring, her cheeks glowing red. “I can’t be that interesting for you to fluster up like that.”

  “Have you considered that you are?”

  “You think?”

  “I’ve seen how people react to you, how I react to you. I was looking down at you only a day ago, now I’m naked as your art subject. Let’s be mindful of this after you’ve given me an experience that I didn’t think I’d take. I don’t even sleep with women, yet I slept with you and I’m holding on to hope that you’d ask me again. That is…interesting.”

  “Did you consider that maybe you always wanted to sleep with a woman and I just happened to be the lucky one?” I questioned her; the self discovery was adorable, not something I wanted to take credit for. I didn’t want her to think she was interested in women just to be interested in me, that would be terrible for her as I would not be able to reciprocate her feelings the same way. I didn’t want to be Kazu 2.0.

  She shook her head, sitting up slightly. Her cute little stomach rolls formed as she did, the sight reminiscent of that to Venus. I didn’t mind her movement, the ability to still jot down her previous pose easy for me. With blushed cheeks, she stared back. “I don’t plan on sleeping with another woman if it isn’t you, Airla-Sama. I don’t like women, I like you. It’s okay if you can't, I don’t mind it as much, just like I don't mind Kazu.”

  “Sounds like you’re giving me free range to do what I please with your feelings —and body. Do you think that’s smart?”

  Staring into the abyss, she shook her head as she blinked back at me, cheeks still cherubically red. “Mhm, if it means I don’t ever have to go back to the countryside, then yes. I don’t mind being used by you when you’re here, I don’t need the reciprocated feelings.” I hadn’t stopped sketching as we spoke, my hand stopping as I looked up at her.

  “Used is such a vulgar word, Maiko.”

  “It’s the proper word. I’d like for you to use me, Airla-Sama. Over and over again.”

  ??

  9:00 AM;

  I rolled my neck to the men in front of me, my father sitting in front with his hands interlocked. Ken stood to my right, while Kurenai to my left. As always. The situation had gotten dire, one of our heads was not only attacked, so were one of our factories. Ikuto wanted to hurt us whatever way he could, my father’s hesitation to attack was only giving him another opening.

  “We need to act fast, Nagatsuchi-Sama. The previous agreement is now null and void, he attacked us, egregiously so! We must strike back!”

  “I am not going to feed into the delusions of a sick child and put my men to death. This isn’t the work of Kousei.”

  “It’s the work of his damn son and you’re choosing to ignore that! Whether it’s Kousei or Ikuto, we are now one less head and one less factory, are we going to allow him to attack again!?” One of my uncles shouted, his face red in anger. I darted my eyes to him, my father placing his hand up. He wasn’t stopping him, he was stopping me. I wasn’t fond of anyone raising their voice to not only my chairman, but my father.

  “I’m not ignoring a thing at all. I just do not want to place my men in situations where I’d have care for widows. You all have families, are you really willing to throw that away to prove a point? The boy wants us dead, let’s not walk into our deaths.”

  “Is being part of the Yakuza not to fight to the death? Our ancestors were samurai, this would shame them!”

  “They were samurai, we are not. One of us needs to be reasonable, I am choosing to be the reasonable one.”

  I didn’t agree with my father’s decision, I wasn’t going to weaken him by disagreeing out loud. That was reserved for private talks, for now I just had to sit here quietly. My phone was under my hand when it pinged, my attention happy to be distracted for a moment. A picture from Airla, just like expected. My eyes widening and cheeks flaring up at the subject. Placing my phone down quickly, I coughed out of embarrassment, my father’s eye on me. “Are you alright, Kazuhito? Do you need water?”

  “N-no, I’m fine. I’ll take the water though.” A glass of water was placed in front of me, the surface cool from condensation. Taking a sip, my phone pinged again, foolishly picking it up again, another fucking picture. I coughed again, the water going down the wrong pipe.

  “Goodness, Kazuhito. Are you really alright?”

  “I’m fine, I’m fine, fuck. Sorry.”

  I would embarrass myself a million times before I’d admit to my father that the reason for my flustered nature wasn’t only because of water going down the wrong pipe, no, never that. It was because my bombshell of a woman sent me not one, but two very compromising pictures that seriously had me debating leaving this meeting high and dry and heading back to the villa to be on my knees for her. One picture was a treat of her in between what I’d assume were Maiko’s thighs, those catlike eyes of her burning through the screen and calling my name. The other picture was simply an invitation for me and me alone, her naked body peeking through one of my robes as those same eyes looked down at me with a smirk included.

  Oh she knew what she was doing.

  I couldn’t leave her unanswered, taking my phone; I texted back quickly to not take anymore attention from the seriousness of the situation.

  I expect you to be on your knees when I arrive.

  Sir, yes sir.

  ??

  5:03 PM;

  I’m sure you’re wondering, how am I not exhausted? The real question is why would I be exhausted? I barely raised a finger, my stomach was full, I had my other pastime available to me whenever I wanted; I was draped in gorgeous silk and I had a pretty little maid to my command at any moment.

  I was in heaven.

  And now I was anticipating my other favorite pastime whenever Kazu arrives.

  For now, Maiko was sleeping beside me after yet another round. I had sent notice to the head housekeeper that I wanted her around for the rest of the day, my connection to Kazu making it so she didn’t fight back. After our little conversation, I had abandoned my sketch and used her right there on the couch, I then chose to take her again in the bedroom away from the ears of my security. I was truly living Kazu’s life but in pink — or purple in my case. I loved the sounds Maiko made, I also just enjoyed the little sense of power that sleeping with her gave me. She had started so bitter, so jealous. Now, her hand laid on my thigh as she snored away. I don’t know why I had to make a point. I’m glad I did. Slipping out of bed, I forwent my robes and made my way into the shower. I had a lot of reasons to bathe at this time so it took no time before I was under the stream of warm water. Looking at the surroundings around me, the bathroom was gorgeously spacious with its massive tub and overhead shower that rained from the skies. I also had a beautiful view of the Japanese scenery and of course, the iconic Mt. Fuji. There was something so majestic about it, the strength it exuded so…powerful. I had never made a notice to come visit Japan, but being here in this sense truly placed the island in a very special place in my heart. It was where the love of my life was born, where he was raised and formed into the man that he is now. Even locked in this massive villa at his father’s order, I held no resentment, it could be worse. I could’ve been back in New York City, alone. I could’ve been reduced to text messages and phone calls, but no, I was here, showering in a beautiful place instead. I pushed my hair back as the water ran through it, my eyes closed as I sighed and just…existed.

  Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.

  “You don’t make it easy to be just a little envious.” Maiko spoke, causing me to jump. I turned around as I wiped my face and opened my eyes, my phone in her hand as she held it facing me.

  “Now don’t say that, Maiko. You’re just as beautiful.”

  “Should I send these pictures to Kazu-Sama and have him prove me right?”

  “You’re welcome to. It doesn’t change my opinion.”

  My phone pinged in her hand, a giggle from her.

  “Kazu-Sama says he’ll be home very soon and…um.”

  “Spit it out, sweetie.”

  “He can’t wait to…um, put his cock so deep inside you that you’ll see stars.”

  I couldn’t help but laugh.

  Yeah, I’m in love.

  …

  I dismissed Maiko shortly after only because I wanted to wait and have Kazu alone for a while, especially after whatever bullshit he might have dealt with during the day. I decided on one of his black robes, no tie this time around as I let it drape off my shoulders. I obviously had no plans to wear it for too long. I spent the time waiting, raking hair crème in my hair with my fingers, Kazu’s attentiveness making it so I had what I needed for my very obviously ethnic hair. I kept my eyes on the maple leaves swaying on the tree, my fingers moving through my hair as I finger curled each strand I could, the doors behind me opening as I paid little notice to the conversation happening. Kazu soon stood by my side, his hand holding one of my curls. Those eyes of his looking down at me, coyly. There was a little smirk on his face as he curled my hair slowly.

  “Now aren’t you a good girl, waiting on your knees for me even as you get pretty and all…”

  “Well you did ask nicely. How was your day?”

  “Long, annoying. I could tell you more about it later, I would rather ask about you.”

  “You saw all the proof you needed, baby. I spent my time doing other things.”

  He gave me a warm and husky chuckle as he kept his eyes on me as I stared back. My hair was becoming an afterthought as I turned around and continued to face him on my knees, just like he had asked. Could someone have walked past and seen me, yes. Did I care? No. I was strung, obsessed, devoted. All the words that referred to being committed to someone, I related to them. He kept that coy smile with me as he let me go for his belt, the buckle clanking with my nails as I fumbled with it.

  “Now I’m pleased at your commitment to comply, but I’d hate to dirty that pretty little mouth. Why don’t you continue with the rest of your hair while I take a quick shower? It’s only fair since you look rather clean yourself.” Did I mind his need for cleanliness? No. Did I appreciate it, oh absolutely. He bent down to give me a quick peck, leaving me to my hair and going off to shower after a long day of whatever these past few days had entailed. I had no clue and frankly, I didn’t care to know, knowing would put me in danger; something I definitely did not want. So I played the exact role I told his parents I’d play, the dutiful pretty wife. Besides, what could go wrong if I stay out the damn way?

  ??

  6:33 PM;

  Now there’s different ways for me to express how absolutely lucky I was to have Airla as mine. I was plagued by the idea of her, any chance I had to think of anything else, I spent it thinking of her. Walking back to the living room, I was greeted by dim lights and a gorgeously seated Airla at the foot of my perceived seat, a cup of warm sake waiting for me, the steam slowly rising from the cup. She smiled at me as I made my way to my seat, her once wet hair now air dried into her signature bouncy coils that framed her face beautifully. Passing me my drink, she watched me silently as I took a sip. Those russet brown eyes of hers curtained with long black lashes that melted my heart every time she fluttered them at me. I placed my free hand out, her warm cheek resting into it as she smiled with her eyes closed, the sweet kind of look that truly makes you want to give her the world.

  Letting my thumb rub her plush lips, she parted her lips, a slight graze of the tongue.

  “Can I?” She asked politely, her eyes looking towards my cock, which I had taken special care to make sure I was squeaky fuckin’ for her. Nodding, she giggled to herself as she went for my robe, those intricately painted nails of her doing away with the tie and exposing me to the brisk air. I twitched slightly, another giggle.”I hope that twitch wasn’t just because of the cold.”

  “My cock will always be excited for you first and foremost, baby girl.”

  “Now I can’t be the only one with ownership, now can I? “ She teased, her five fingers going around my cock as she stroked me to hardness. Keeping her mouth to a distance, I could feel she was in a teasing mood; my cock usually well into her mouth by now. I raised an eyebrow as I took another sip of the sake, my eye still on her.

  “I don’t belong to anyone else but you, baby.”

  “You’re well aware that’s not true, does the name Kentaro ring any bells?” A swirl of her tongue around the tip, fuck.

  “I don’t belong to him the way I do to you. Is he a fantastic fuck and partner, yes. No doubt. But you…oh you.” She took my moment of vulnerability to engulf my cock in her warm, wet mouth. A grip of the arm chair as I could feel her doing her best to take me all the way back in one go. I held her hair as she tried, her eyes on me as she gagged just slightly before finding her stride and putting in the work. I groaned at the feeling of my tip touching the back of her throat, the increase in saliva causing her to make rather imprudent sounds. I placed my hand on my temple as I watched her, a bite of the lip to let her know I was enjoying myself. A scratch here and there, the increasing need to fuck her. That wave was coming in to crash — hard, a little prayer to the gods to thank them for her. The sounds of her work and my moans were the only thing filling up the room, I had no qualms if someone heard me, honestly I wish they did. A small shiver, no fuck, I couldn’t just yet. Taking a good grip of those soft coils, I held her head back, a pop from her mouth as she whined just quietly enough for me to hear her. “That mouth of yours is dangerous, my love. While I’d love to give you a treat, I much rather fuck that treat into you.”

  “Oh, I’d love that.” She stood on her knees as she let my robes fall off her body, that tenderly soft dark skin in full view. Now Airla’s body, oh, god. A well gifted woman I’d say. With perfectly perky breasts and darker brown nipples, she chose a rather braless life for that reason. A small waist that was no stranger to my hands and then her ass, god. Her fuckin’ ass. It wasn’t until her that I realized how much of ass man I was, the way it would jiggle when I’d be fuckin’ her from behind, the curvature of it in any piece of clothing and oh, the softness. Makes it such a delight to slap. I could write a dissertation in MLA format about this woman’s body if my life depended on it, right now? I sat back as she found herself on top of me, that sweet pussy of hers engulfing me slowly as she moaned with a rather satisfied grin on her face. I grinned back as she started to whine her hips, her hand on my chest.

  “I know I was told to wait, but I might have to make you my wife sooner.” I kept my hands on the armchair, touching her would push me right over the fuckin’ edge. I wanted her to get her satisfaction on me in whatever way she desired, even if that meant being her sex toy for the moment. I paid attention to her as she would whine up, then down, the mixture of our pleasures evident on my cock as it would disappear inside her at times.

  “I can accept a promise ring if you’d like. I just ask that I come with, it’s a promise so I feel I should have a…say.” She spoke with clear concentration, the pulsating of her walls hugging my cock in a magmatic hug. Her small hand rubbed on her clit as she kept on. It was clear she missed me, it was even clearer that she wanted me to ogle her while she fucked me by not breaking eye contact once. Her other hand held on to my thigh for support, the sight of her pleasuring herself while riding me becoming a permanent and powerful core memory. She raised her hand above her stomach, a vulgar grin on that face. “I feel you all the way up here, baby. Your cock was made specifically for me.”

  Oh that hyper possession of mine was never without nurturing. There was something rather animalistic about the woman you love telling you she feels you all in her cervix. It was crazy, it was out of those naughty mangas I’d sneak as a teen boy. Never did I think I’d live that life as I consumed those pages. The vulgarity of it all grabbed me by the neck, pinning me back as I gripped the armchair even tighter. That feeling came to me — quickly. By no means was I embarrassed, just meant more time to fuck.

  “I’m awfully close, baby girl.”

  “Well then, treat me like you said you would.”

  She gave me those last few thrusts to control, the deepness of her causing that electric spark to travel through my spine as I held her close, my nails finally digging into her skin. With hands in my hair, she looked down at me as I came, a sweet slow grind causing me to groan. “I love you.” I muttered, her warm chest an invitation for sleep.

  “I love you too.”

  How’s that song by the band Garbage go again?

  The one about a crush?

  Yeah, that’s exactly how I feel.

  ??

  9:01 PM;

  “He’s crossed the line yet again, even after I showed mercy for attacking one of our own. I knew it wasn’t Kousei’s doing, Elion’s reconnaissance work assuring me that. I won’t be foolish this time around.” I stood quietly as Nagatsuchi-Sama spoke out loud, his voice visibly irritated by the current events. Ikuto had taken our kindness for weakness, attacking yet another one of our factories and managing to slay another one of our own. We were dumbstruck on how he was managing such close encounters with them, each of their security details being massacred minutes before. I knew there was something strange going on, I just didn’t want to spew nonsense.

  it’s not nonsense if it helps us, darling. speak up if you feel the need.

  thank you for the reassurance, my love.

  Nai stood by the window, a cigarette in her fingers as a lot of security nonsense was left to her as Kazu’s head. I shared a look with her, a wink in return. “What do you have in mind, sir? We must attack with the same fervor, we can’t allow him to play us again.”

  “Oh, I’m aware. Kentaro, you’re my second lieutenant for this reason. You have a blank check on how you want to make a dent in this fatuous attempt to bring The Clan down. I expect work done swiftly and quietly, I’ll show that damn brat some incredulity.”

  I nodded quietly, a swift exit out the office after Nai bowed and closed the door behind us. Elion and Ryoma waited in the living room, a swift lick of Elion’s lips as she pulled away from her husband’s neck. I had my suspicions on Elion lately in regards to how she acted around her spouse, the visible bite marks on his neck not looking like any bite I’ve ever seen. Elion’s hair clinked as she turned to face me, a brow raised.

  “I’ve gotten word that one of Ikuto’s associates has been seen around Kabukichō. He frequents a lot of the clubs there, perfect place to ambush if you’d like.”

  “Perfect.” I cracked my fingers as I faced the ground, each pop louder than the next.

  “Wait, do you expect to just walk into the club and bash his head in?”

  “That is exactly what I expect to do.”

  11:19 PM;

  I helped Nai off the motorcycle we had chosen to make our way into Kabukichō, the busy streets making a car a hassle to get around. We stood across from the club that Elion directed us to, my target on the vip floor.

  “I have a clear view of you both. If you need any backup, don’t hesitate to ask.” Elion spoke in my ear, a decision to keep her there as I navigated this mess, heaven sent. She was trained in espionage , so she was the perfect person to lead from the shadows. I tightened my leather gloves as Nai adjusted her thigh garter that hid under her black dress. We were going into a club, we had to blend in. I coordinated with her, deciding on a rather gaudy silk shirt and slacks, the adorning of an extra necklace or two joining the look. I decided on a messy bun, some stray hairs as it couldn’t be helped, but one thing I knew? Never walk into a fight with anything that might give the other the advantage. Also, I didn’t want any hands in my hair besides my wife’s, Airla or Kazu’s.

  “You look ravishing, darling. I expect to see you on the other side?”

  “Of course. We have reputations to uphold, especially as a married unit.” She smirked confidently, a hand on her hip. I chuckled, cracking my neck. I couldn’t help but grin, the bloodlust of this existence engulfing me.

  ??

  The doors to the elevator opened as we stepped out, Ken smashing the fire alarm box with a quick punch, pulling the string and alarming everyone on the VIP floor .”(In Japanese) Anyone not associated with Ikuto Sadanaga can make their way out in an orderly fashion, please.” Cracking his neck as he slowly stepped to the center of the room, he rolled his shoulders, the slow dispersion of frightened individuals knowing what was best for them as they abandoned their drinks and gave way to the beast of a man that was my newly labeled husband. The ones that stayed stood up from their seats, their faces red in anger as the lights flashed white in the once darkened room.

  “(In Japanese) Who the fuck do you think you are interrupting my party!?”

  “(In Japanese) It doesn’t matter who we are, know The Nagatsuchi Clan sends its regards.”

  To watch Kentaro exist is already a blessing. To love him, hold him, learn from him…a religious experience. Nothing would ever change how I feel about him. Nothing. Not even the version of him in front of me that got surrounded by 10 men and soon attacked. Ken was quiet, he was calm, but when it came to upholding his oath to the clan, he released that stoic demeanor and unwinded.

  ??

  10 minutes prior…

  “Darling, truly. I can’t take my eyes off you, I’d hate for you to get your hands dirty looking that good.”

  “Are you asking me to sit this one out?”

  “Never that, but what kind of husband would I be if I let one of these low level men touch you?”

  I approached him as we stood in the elevator alone, his hand going around my waist as he pulled me closer. I looked up at him, a slight chuckle. “You’d be a good husband either way, my love.”

  “I’d like to strive for a great husband, is there any way I can achieve that?”

  “Give me a good show and I’ll stand by. Actually, achieve a clean bone break and I’m all yours tonight.”

  “Oh, darling. You’re too kind.”

  ??

  I took a seat as one man threw a punch, a silly idea as Ken moved out the way swiftly and grabbed his arm, achieving what I had asked for and causing the humerus bone to rip through his skin, an agonizing screech from him. That’s one. Another tried to kick him, Ken grabbing his ankle and twisting it with force, his strength making it so he could take said ankled individual and use him to push two away. While those three figured it out, another came, brandishing a knife as a form to intimidate…all for Ken to simply clench his fist, plant his feet and punch him square in the jaw. Every fighter knows, all you need is a solid punch. An abandoned carton of cigarettes laid on the table, a treat as I enjoyed the show. One cried out frantically as Ken grabbed him by the back of the head, smashing his face into the corner of the table, the twitch of his body causing the main man to recoil back into his seat.

  “(In Japanese) Kill him for Christ’s sake!”

  Ken chuckled as he got closer, four men already laid on the ground. I hadn’t even lifted a finger beside flicking a lighter. Six still stood in front of him, each stepping back as he inched forward. I held my cigarette in between my fingers, sighing. “(In Japanese) Honestly, living could be an attainable experience for you if you’d just quit, it seems you’re keen on dying.”

  “(In Japanese) Shut your whore mouth and mind a man’s business!” Main man shouted at me, my brows lifting. Completely uncalled for. I sat back, a wave of my hand.

  say the word.

  no, no. keep on with the other six.

  yes ma’am.

  The final six inched closer, their determined faces ready to throw punches. With a cute wink and tender smirk, I watched as Ken took the 6 men all on his own, the punches that landed causing loud thuds that even had me turn away a few times. There was a reason for the leather gloves, he had no intention to use a weapon. He wanted to show the last man standing that this is what protected the Nagatsuchi Clan, this is what Ikuto and every single one of his lackeys would have to push through before even touching either Kazuhiro. This is what protected me, Airla, Kazuhito.

  “(In Japanese) L-l-listen, let us work something out! I can tell you what you want! P-please, spare me!”

  Ken approached him, grabbing him by the collar forcefully and bringing him to me. I finally took my stand, stepping over groaning and possibly dead men. I stood next to Ken, my hand on his shoulder, the warmth of his increased adrenaline radiating through his shirt. His muscles also bulged as he carried the older gentleman in front of me.

  “(In Japanese) See, I would have considered that. Maybe even given you a chance to run, but you made one tiny mistake, one that I and my dear husband here truly didn’t appreciate.”

  “(In Japanese) W-what!? I can make it up to you, please! Have mercy!”

  “You don’t make up for calling another man’s wife a whore.” From my thigh garter, I pulled out the knife I had chosen as a weapon, one made by Ken himself as a gift to me from years prior and simply, without a single thought, shoved that motherfucker deep in the fucker’s eye, the intention to kill him quickly as I never struck to injure, only to end. Ken dropped the body after, the thud rather loud. With a hand on the hip, I faced him, his face only having small splatters of blood from his feat, the sight attractive even if unsanitary. Going into his pocket, I pulled out a cigarette for him, lighting it and giving him a chance to pull. Taking the ear piece to communicate, I held it for Elion to hear me clearly.

  “We won’t be coming home tonight, let Nagatsuchi-Sama know a job has been well done.”

  Elion’s chuckle vibrated in my ear.

  “Copy that. Have fun you two.”

  ??

  6:15 AM; June 8th, 20XX

  “Your punches have gotten heavier, my boy. Good.” Father held the punching bag for me as I landed a few good solid hits, the leather snapping at my skin with each punch. I chuckled as I incorporated a kick, the force causing him to step back once. “Fantastic kick, Kazu. Take a break, hydrate.”

  “I can go for more, but fine.” I wiped my sweat with a towel given to me by one of the maidens, Father making his way to the engawa and sitting down seiza style towards the garden, his hands clasped on his lap. I took a seat next to him, much less reserved, one foot dangling over, the other close to my chest. I rested my chin on my knee as I took in the summer morning breeze, a sigh.

  “We need to speak about an escape plan for Airla and yourself in case the next retaliation is directed towards here. I’m sure as you’re aware, we responded to Ikuto’s attacks, he is going to respond back. I need you to assure me that if anything happens, you’re to take Airla and go, you’re not to fight or try to save anyone besides yourself and her. You two are the future of this clan, we mustn’t let Ikuto change that.”

  “I’m expected to run? You’re training me to be the chairman of my clan and you expect me to run? Father, I’m sorry that’s bullshit.” I exclaimed annoyingly, the expectation that I’d run was beneath me.

  “I expect you to survive, Kazu. You want a future with that woman in your bed? You need to know when to pick your battles. This battle is not for you to fight, it’s time you accept the reality of possibly losing me sooner than later. You might wake up tomorrow having to take my place, I need to know that you can handle it.”

  “Dad, he’s not going to attack you. Please.” I kept one name for my father out of respect, the others not fitting to his stature. Dad was the one I used when I wanted to remind him that I was first his son before I was anything else. I would care if he died. It would hurt me deeply if my mother became a widow due to someone’s doing. I understood the implications of being born in this life, I still had a right to want my family’s longevity.

  “He may, he may not. I need you to be ready for the instance that he may.”

  “What about mom?”

  “I have a contingency plan in store for her to assure your ascension and her full safety. I hope I don’t have to enact it.”

  “You won’t.”

  8:23 AM;

  After that rather somber conversation, we found ourselves back in a training mindset, my punches harder each time for the chance that I might have to use them. A shower and breakfast awaited me, Airla’s sweet self still sleeping as I slipped into our bedroom before my shower. She was splayed out in the middle, the pillows surrounding her as slept with her mouth slightly agape, her chest rising slowly. Her coils were a cushion for her head, each stray one framing that pretty face. Her beauty truly was ethereal, if I could I’d watch her all day, I would. Just as I was about to head into the shower, her phone went off, causing her to jolt awake. I rushed to pick it up for her as she tousled, her mother’s face and number popping up on the screen. She had no qualms with my picking up, what’s the point of a relationship if you don’t trust each other? Sitting beside her, I answered on her behalf.

  “(In Portuguese) Airla, your father hasn’t come home and I’m worried and I need you to tell me that maybe he’s had a little too much fun and he’s okay.”

  “I’d love to know what was said, unfortunately I’ve yet to take any lessons. Hello, Catarina.” I chuckled, my hand on Airla’s shoulder as she sat up.

  “O-oh, Kazu! Enzo hasn’t made it home, I’m worried something might have happened to him. He’s never done this in all the years we’ve been married.”

  “Have you tried calling his phone?” A stupid question, yet a question that needed to be asked. Airla rubbed her eyes, brows furrowing in worry as I asked my question.

  “That’s all I’ve been doing since late last night. I’m so worried, Kazu. It’s so unlike him. It makes me wonder if those men that have been showing up lately had anything to do with it.”

  “What men?”

  “These rather odd men, they’d be outside the house while I’m in the garden. Enzo had to tell them off a few times but they all claim they’re just tourists. I don’t want to be judgmental, but they looked dangerous.”

  My mind went to the worst possible scenario, would Ikuto scoop that low? Would he hurt Airla again to get to me? It wasn’t hard to find out information, names, locations in this life. Money spoke loudly and one thing Ikuto had was — money. With a history as extensive as mine, our great-great grandfathers once fighting on the same side, he had a wealth comparable to mine. This was a war, yes, but innocents were off the table.

  “Catarina, I’ll see what I can do. Stay inside, pack a bag and wait for my instructions.”

  “Wait —“ I passed the phone over to Airla, worrying on my own. I had to get in front of him. I had to outsmart him.

  I couldn’t let him hurt Airla again.