5:04 AM, March 12th, 20XX

  I tousled in bed as I reached out for his warmth, the coldness of the bed causing me panic slightly; only for that panic to subside as soon as I felt his strong arms pull me into an embrace.

  “I’m here, baby girl. No need to worry.”

  I could feel the smile grow on my face as I snuggled closer and fell back into dreamland.

  7:34 AM

  He did eventually have to get out of bed, as a CEO; he still had to show up, even if it’s just to drone through meetings. Watching him as he got dressed in his freshly laundered clothes, I got a peek of his back tattoo before he covered it with his shirt. He was so mysteriously seraphic. I couldn’t believe he was so keen on belonging to me, he was clear in his affirmations as he fucked me, reminding me that he wanted belong to me.

  “I’ll be busy with meetings today, make yourself comfortable in my office while you work on your sketches for the mural, if you need anything, let Judy know.”

  “Will I be able to see you in between meetings?”

  “Probably not, they tend to take a lot of my time. But don’t fret, my love. We’ll be together again tonight.”

  “Is that a promise?”

  He came to my side, unhooking his katana necklace and placing it around my neck, a kiss followed after as I got a whiff of his minty breath.

  “A promise as deep as my heart.” He’d linger after, our lips barely grazing each other for his sake.

  8:13 AM

  He left me after a few more kisses by the door, the separation anxiety flaring up as soon as he was out of my sight. The door was knocked on after, a tall Japanese man in a black suit and a rather blank, but serious stare.

  “Hello, Airla-San. Nagatsuchi-Sama sent me to accompany you home. I’m also to quietly follow behind you in the chance you need to run errands.”

  “O-okay. Is there a reason why you need to follow me?”

  “Nagatsuchi-Sama wants to assure your safety.”

  I wanted to ask why, but the monotone voice of the blank individual in front of me told me I was going to get little to no answers. If I wanted to know more about Kazu, I would either have to ask him myself or ask his other two trusted individuals; Ken and Kurenai.

  “Please take me home and then to Naga Inc, uh…what’s your name?”

  “Hachi, ma’am.”

  “Please take me home, Hachi.” I smiled at him warmly, his cheeks flushing red as he bowed. If I was going to have someone follow me, the least I could do is be nice.

  ??

  Kazu walked through his office doors as Kurenai and I sat across his empty desk. He looked rather cheerful, his golden eyes warmer. Getting to his desk, he grinned at us as he tossed his phone on the table. I noticed his neck was missing his katana necklace, which was weird considering his grandfather had it made for him and he was very close with the now departed Nagatsuchi-Sama.

  “I’m going to marry that woman. Give or take 3 years, I will be making her my wife.” He proclaimed, taking a seat. Kurenai and I looked at each other, brows raised.

  “Kazuhito, you just met her.”

  “Yeah and I made love to her all night and will probably do that again tonight after I shower her with gifts. Besides, let’s not act like you two didn’t stand there behind me as I opened up to her about my preferences, I’m sure she won’t be opposed to being my future wife.”

  “You still have to tell her about that part of you. Your father would also have to approve of her, given the responsibility she would carry later on.” I reminded him, it was my responsibility given to me by his father to remind him of his legacy.

  “I don’t want to focus on that aspect right now. I’m sure my father is aware of her and will soon have words for me about my actions.”

  “If you’re serious about her, you will have to tell her sooner than later." She’ll eventually ask one of us and I truly don’t want to start off a possibly good relationship with a lie.” Kurenai spoke up, her usually down hair in a slicked back ponytail. With legs crossed, she sat back in the chair, her tone serious.

  “I’m aware, Kurenai. I understand we’re all comfortable with each other, but remember your place. I will come clean about my life on my own time, I don’t need you or you trying to dictate my choices.” He looked at me in that emphasis, our relationship going much longer and deeper than with Kurenai. I was the older voice of reason for him, which sometimes left us in a strange position given his stature in my life.

  In public, he was my boss; the man I followed. But behind closed doors, well, he found himself on his knees a lot. I had no qualms with whatever he did with his life, especially when it came to relationships; but it’s different if there’s the possibility of being invited to be in said relationships. His last relationship with a woman was monogamous, which I respected. This time around, the woman herself showed interest for all 3 of us…so things were absolutely going to be different.

  Deciding to not press and overall not piss off my boss, I bowed my head; leaving it alone. Kurenai scoffed slightly, Kazu’s eyes darting to her with a brow raised.

  “Do you have something to say, Kurenai?”

  “No, sir.” She shook her head, sitting forward and to attention. Kazu scoffed as he looked through his stack of papers. “Anyways, you’re to have a meeting with the son of the head of the Cosa Nostra; they’re interested in purchasing more stock. There seems to be turmoil with the North and they want to secure our loyalty.”

  “Let them know they have our support. Keep this contained, I don’t want Father having to bother himself with this issue, that’s what I’m here for.”

  “Sir.”

  “Also keep this quiet while Airla’s here. Neither of you are to mention anything in regards to The Clan.”

  Both Kurenai and I bowed our heads. Whatever version of Kazu that was going to bloom from this new relationship was going to be a version that neither I, Kurenai or his parents will be able to or want to control.

  9:36 AM

  Airla eventually made her way in, taking a seat on the couch with her rather large sketch pad that she had Hachi bring in for her. She was rather precious the way she would bite her lower lip as she drew or how she’d lose herself in her art and twiddle with her hair. I understood the appeal, she was gorgeous. Responsible for setting up the meeting with the Cosa Nostra due to my fluency in Italian, I was left in the office with Airla while Kazu went to fulfill his Naga Inc responsibilities, Kurenai as his head of security; went right with him. After getting off the phone, Airla looked up as she smiled.

  “You speak Italian beautifully. Almost felt as if I was in Italy hearing locals speak.”

  “Thank you. It’s half of who I am, so I appreciate that.”

  “Oh? I would’ve never guessed, given your last name.”

  “My Italian heritage comes from my mother.”

  “Well, she did a wonderful job teaching you. Maybe you can give me lessons sometimes.”

  I almost corrected her about my familial relationship, choosing not to. I didn’t need the sympathetic look I tended to receive when the truth would come to light. I smiled instead, taking a seat across from her as she sketched on.

  “Am I allowed to know what you’re doing or am I to wait until you’ve completed your project?”

  “I can show you. You’re welcome to take a seat next to me.” I took up on her offer, our thighs grazing as she showed me her sketch pad, her talent impressive. While it was still a rough sketch, I could tell the location of the background clear as day. Hayama Shiosai Park, a park I found myself going with Kazu as children when his grandfather would take us out. I remembered him always going by the pond and playing in the water, I wasn’t surprised at seeing his name roughly written with the description “hand in water”.

  “The hand in the water is pretty accurate. For someone born in the winter, he’s very fond of the water.”

  “I knew he gave off a winter birthday. Thanks for confirming.”

  “No problem. December 22nd, exactly.” She chuckled as she placed the pad on the glass table. Turning to look at me over her shoulder, her long reddish brown hair cascaded down her shoulders and back, her brown eyes twinkled as she smiled.

  “Thank you for telling me. I’ll have to get to know Kazu at my own speed, but I’m open to any tidbits about him to make that process faster.”

  “I’ll be more than happy to share whatever you’d like.” I smiled back, the warmth between us, comfortable. I don’t know what it was about this ebony beauty in front of me, but there was a familiarity with her that drew me in to her. I could see why Kazu felt so comfortable with her, regardless of the life he was keeping from her. I almost felt the need to tell her.

  “I’ll probably have to think of what to ask you, doesn’t feel like you’ll be telling me everything I want to know.” Oh, she was…intuitive. I hated playing into the clueless act, but out of respect to Kazu and his family, I had to.

  “How come?” I asked as I sat back, placing my arm over the couch. She chuckled at my question.

  “He’s too perfect. Too well put together. I might’ve not crossed many men like him, but there’s always something to his kind. I just haven’t figured out what it is yet.”

  “If you don’t mind me prodding, what exactly does his kind give?”

  “Besides being astronomically wealthy, what other reason does a 20 something year old with a body like his need a head of security for? Why is there a man by the name of Hachi who told me he’s been tasked with my protection? What protection could I need? What protection does Kazu need?”

  “Well to be fair, his family goes back a few decades. They’ve had time to build wealth and notoriety.”

  “You’re going to tell me what you think I’m supposed to hear, but not what I want to hear. You’re loyal to him and his family, it’s understandable.” Her phone pinged, her attention going to her bag. Taking her phone out, she raised her brows to whatever was on the screen.

  I didn’t have any smart comebacks, she was so close to the truth and wasn’t even aware. I felt…wrong for keeping the truth away from her. I never cared about lying to anyone, their feelings never mattered to me. But this woman in front of me, well…she festered that guilt.

  Who the hell did you bring into my life, Kazuhito?

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  ??

  Ken was called off to his duty after our conversation, leaving me alone in Kazu’s office. Taking the opportunity of solitude, I finally got a chance to check my phone. A text from my Madam.

  I hope you enjoyed your vacation. We’ve received an inquiry for a new client and they’re very interested in meeting you specifically.

  Did they state why they’re so interested?

  Unfortunately, no. They left their last name though.

  And that is?

  Sadanaga.

  ??

  “That damn Sadanaga Family has shown their loyalty to The Ndrangheta. They’re only fanning the flames to an inevitable war.” Giovanni sneered, slamming his fist on the table, the cutlery shaking. I stared at him plainly as he calmed down, the mention of that last name causing me to curl my hand in a fist, curling my fingers slowly as to disperse the anger through them. As the Cosa Nostra had their rivalry with The Ndrangheta, my family had a rivalry with the Sadanaga Clan. It went back decades, almost to the time of my great-great grandfather. The son of the family and the current Patriarch was Ikuto Sadanaga. A son of a bitch who had it out for me since we crossed paths back in childhood. Since our family were rivals, we were rivals. It also didn’t help that he had been the only man who had sent me home with my head up my ass and my face bloodied. I disliked Ikuto, down to my fuckin’ core.

  “You have our loyalty, Giovanni. I hope you and your father are aware of this. We’re more than happy to provide the necessary weapons you need.”

  “I appreciate your kindness, Kazu. Your family’s hand in the steel business is truly a blessing amongst men.”

  “We’re glad to help, Giovanni.”

  His mention of my family’s business was to be expected as that was the way that built us to where we were now. My great-great grandfather was involved with the Emperor of Japan back in the 1800’s, his association with such a powerful person giving my great-grandfather the leg up in getting involved with steel work while trying to involve himself with the Yakuza. That ended up working in his favor, dispersing our family through the underground and working his way up to the rank we have maintained for all these years. My grandfather and father maintained that work since, leaving me with the responsibility of growing to eventually take over. My grandfather’s death got me close to that reality, my ascension to Patriarch happening a month prior and getting me closer to the Chairman title, which my father occupied and expected to occupy until his death.

  Meetings with the sons of our allies were beneath him, so while I hated having to hear the name of my enemy, it was my responsibility and the secret that I had to keep from Airla for as long as I could. Naga Inc was the cover to my true life, giving me the title of CEO to a steel works company while allowing me to involve myself in illicit business such as gun trafficking. I did the dirty work for my family while my father was the respectable face, a job I didn’t mind as long as it allowed me to shed some anger in whatever way I pleased.

  This was the life I didn’t want Airla to be aware of. I didn’t want her to know the blood I had on my hands. The same hands that pleasured her had ended lives. While involved in the life she was, to me she was innocent; she didn’t deserve to know of this. She didn’t deserve to be involved. But I knew I couldn’t be without her, so how the fuck do I come clean without involving her fully?

  “How soon can we expect that shipment?” Gio asked, his demeanor calmed after his outburst.

  “As soon as tomorrow, we want to assure your victory in this turmoil and any other after it. My family and I are fully behind you, as we always have and always will.”

  “My family is indebted to you, Kazuhito. Whatever you need, please don’t hesitate.” He put his hand to his heart, bowing his head as he did. I smiled, my thigh vibrating as my phone pinged loudly.

  “I apologize, let me just put that on silent.”

  “No, no it’s fine. I have other obligations to fulfill. Please enjoy a meal on my coin, we’re more than grateful.” He rose from his seat, a warm and appreciative smile on his face. I smiled back.

  “Thank you, Giovanni. Let me know if we can assist you in any other way.”

  I was soon left in the private area of a busy Italian restaurant. Getting a look at my phone, I smiled at Airla’s name, that smile soon fading at the subject of her text.

  I’m so sorry, I have a new client tonight. We’ll have to postpone.

  No need to apologize. I’ll have Hachi take you and wait for you.

  Kazu, I’ll be there all night. You cannot expect him to wait for me all night.

  That’s exactly what I expect. I don’t want you worrying about getting home after a night of servicing. It’s no problem and trust, Hachi wouldn’t mind.

  You say that as if he has a choice.

  He doesn’t, I just wanted my assurance to sound less imperious.

  It didn’t. I don’t mind though, it’s nice to not have to worry about public transport after night.

  I’m glad to help in any way. Will I see you tomorrow?

  Of course, I have to show you the sketch of the background, I hope I did it justice.

  I have no doubt you did. While I only lightly scoured your social media, I was very impressed with your ability. I don’t need proof for what I’m sure is a great sketch.

  You’re too kind, Kazu. Thank you.

  No need to thank me, baby. It’s my pleasure.

  Can we see each other in the morning before work? I get out at 4 am.

  I’d like that. I’ll have Hachi bring you to me.

  I’ll keep you in mind until then ??

  I grumbled as I placed my phone down, the sweetness of her making our distance harder. I got Kurenai’s attention as she stood behind my booth.

  “Something wrong, Sir?”

  “I’m fine. Inform Hachi that he’s to take Airla to work tonight and remain there until she’s off.”

  “Sir, I hate to push back but I don’t see the need for one of my highly trained men to play babysitter to your new lover. They’re here to protect you.” Kurenai came over my shoulder, her face scrunched in concern.

  “Protecting her is protecting me. You’re aware of how fast news travels, I’m only staying two steps ahead.” I retorted, looking at her from the corner of my eye.

  “Are you in fear of him finding out about her?” She stepped back, standing to attention as I looked at her over my shoulder. Raising a brow, I hesitated to give her a response.

  “As I said, News travels fast. Do your job and tell your subordinate to do his. I expect Airla in my arms by 5 am.”

  “Sir.” Kurenai looked away, annoyed at my response but understanding, duty first. Looking at the time, it was 3:00 pm, my responsibilities taking up most of my morning with little chance to see Airla. I still had meetings with shareholders about trivial issues that could easily be solved with more money. Even as a front, the legitimacy of Naga Inc mattered, so I had to make sure to keep my Yakuza ways out of business. Heading back to Naga Inc was a breeze, Kurenai’s annoyance with me was endearing as she kept a quiet demeanor the whole ride back, looking out the window and getting out as soon as we were there to open the door for me. I chuckled as we entered the elevator.

  “You don’t have to be so visibly annoyed, you know.”

  “Are we speaking as boss and associate or as lovers? I’d hate to be reprimanded for speaking my mind.”

  “Now why would you be reprimanded? What exactly do you need to say?”

  “Kazu, you’re falling too hard and too fast for her. I thought this would be a sexual conquest, but by the way you’re sending out one of my men to protect her and not you is little concerning. What if she doesn’t feel the same way and feels overwhelmed?”

  “You didn’t spend the night with her like I did, Kure-Chan. She’s magical, in every sense of the way. I don’t know what it is about her, I can’t lose her. I meant what I said in regards to making her my wife.”

  “One night is really all it took?” She raised a brow, arms folded as she stared back confused. The elevator ding filled the silence between us.

  “Yes. You just need to experience her.”

  Kurenai rolled her eyes, facing the doors again as we got to the floor. She stood in front of me as always, securing my protection by going first when entering different locations. The doors opened, Kurenai gasped to herself.

  ??

  Pretty russet brown eyes fluttered at me with full lashes as she smiled, her smaller stature looking up at me as she waited for the elevator.

  “Hi, Kurenai.” Her voice was sweet, her smile even sweeter as she held onto her smaller sketch book as Hachi stood behind her with her larger one. Time somehow froze for us as we met eyes, the warmth of her engulfing me in a fuzzy feeling that I had only really felt with Ken.

  “H-hi, Miss Moreno. Nice to see you.” I felt nervous as I spoke to her, words feeling heavy as I figured out what to say to her next. That was interrupted, of course. Kazu popped up from behind me, smiling brightly as they met eyes and he pulled her attention from me.

  He spoke of experiencing her, was that what he meant?

  ??

  Kazu beamed as he stepped from behind Kurenai, taking me by the waist and pulling me aside. I pushed his hair out the way, getting a good view of those gorgeous eyes of his.

  “I’m glad I got to see you before heading out. Are you heading straight home?”

  “Mm, no. I have to go buy a new outfit for my client tonight. I like to meet each one of them with something new to remember them by.”

  “Is that so? Would I get a new dress if I made an appointment with you?”

  “You already got the best one, baby.” I chuckled, his cheeks flushing red. Looking at the time on the wall clock, it was approaching 4:00, I needed to go.

  “I’ll send you pictures of whatever I chose.” I stepped into the elevator after Hachi, Kazu held the door with his arm.

  “Please do. Have a great night at work, darling. Oh and it’s on me, just let Hachi take care of it when you make your decision.”

  “Kazu, you don’t have to.”

  “I want to. Use your money for fun, I’ve got everything else.”

  “You spoil me.”

  “Always. What joy is life if I don’t pamper the woman I’m pursuing?”

  “Not going to argue with that. See you tomorrow.” I gave him a quick peck to remember me by, his cheeks even redder than before. Waving as the doors closed, I got a good look for that beautiful straight smile of his, a good image to remember him by.

  5:21 PM

  I had gotten my hands on a rather pricey long beaded red dress with slits on the side that left little to the imagination, good thing I had the proper underwear at home. Getting into the dress was a breeze; the fabric hugging my skin nicely as my hips peeked. The underwear I had were in the way, so I slid them off for a quick picture. I had a feeling Kazu would approve.

  What do you think?

  Unreal, darling. Are you sure you can’t call out of work and model that dress for me instead?

  My clients pay a $10,000 deposit fee just to spend 8 hours with me, that’s not including the $5000 for each hour spent. I’d hate to waste someone’s hard earned money.

  I can assure you they hardly worked, but I understand. You can always use that money to buy even nicer dresses, maybe even some underwear. Although, I might end up paying for that too.

  Doesn’t seem like you’re going to let me pay for anything, huh?

  Nope. My women don’t pay.

  I’ll get around that eventually.

  You can try, but my core belief is that women should be cared for. You bring life into this world, what the hell do men do? Cause wars?

  I’m not gonna argue with the truth. Either way, I would still like to be able to pay for things. I work hard, I’d like to indulge in spending it.

  Use your money to invest. Whether that be in beauty or stocks or fuck it, even socks. I want to look after you.

  I blushed hard. It almost felt like a love confession. To want to care for me so deeply even after only knowing me 48 hours. Why was he single? What about him didn’t attract someone to want to keep him forever? What was his fucking flaw?

  I guess I’m getting this dress?

  Yes. I can’t wait to peel it off in the morning and fuck you in the shower.

  I bit my lip at his vulgar declaration, truly wishing I could skip out on my responsibility. I owed my Madam so much, I couldn’t possibly skip out on her for the sake of dick. I’d be a damn liar if I didn’t admit to being slightly aroused. Thankful for a private dressing room, I sighed.

  You’re making it difficult to be away from you.

  I’ll stop. Send me more pics of you throughout the night, I want to savor you in all forms.

  I smiled at the text, taking a few more pictures for him and making sure to turn around and show off my ass for him. He was fond of it, given by the many times he grabbed it during our romp. Any other day, I would have been excited to go to work and get mewled on, but honestly?

  I just wanted to be with him.

  that fast?