Chapter 31: Lost In The Rain

“Taiwan? You’re going back to Taiwan?”

Mei gave a kind smile at the way Mao tried to cover the disappointment in her voice. She shook her head when she tried to apologize. She herself had qualms about the idea. Leaving their life here is not something easy for her. Mao, the kids, and her general love for the place… How can she go?

“We’re just weighing our options, Mao. Nothing’s confirmed yet. We thought that maybe starting a new life in Taiwan is just what we need…”

Mao gave a small nod, but the thought still saddens her. She hoped she wouldn’t see them go… But it is their life… And if Taiwan is better for them, then she will be supporting them all the way… Just that, she was really going to miss them…

“Lun Ge’s asleep right now?” She peeked into the room.

“Yeah, that is one great example of a ‘zhu tou’ (pighead). After finishing his pudding, he’s all snores.”

The two girls gave a snicker. Her jie was back to bickering and joking around with her husband and it looks like everything is going to fall into place. Mao suddenly gave her a hug. Mei chuckled in surprise and embraced her back tightly.

“Jie, I’m sorry…”

Mei pulled back and looked at her. “Mao, I told you this isn’t your fault. Do not blame yourself.”

“But they trapped him and it feels like-“

“That’s all on Lun… Please don’t do this. You haven’t been anything but good to us. They preyed on Lun and he apologizes for being such a problem-“

“No, jie-“

They looked at each other and suddenly chuckled. This was never going to end between them. Mei reminded her that the important thing is everything’s alright now. Didn’t Jun say that they had handled everything? That’s what they should be focusing on. They should just leave everything in the past. Mao gave a bright nod at that. Mei’s eyes then caught something coming towards them. It was Pi, holding a small fruit basket, shaking off the water droplets from his coat. The rain had suddenly poured down that afternoon and it looked like it was far from stopping. She greeted him with a smile.

“Another one? We still haven’t finished the first one he gave. But thank him for me, anyway,” Mei said this to Mao.

And as if on cue, her phone rang. It was Jun calling and she excused herself. Mei gave a smile and went to place the basket inside the room. Mao walked past Pi, putting all effort in avoiding his gaze. Pi turned around discreetly, his eyes on her back. She stopped a short distance away and answered the call.

“Jun?”

“Hey…”

He sounded tired.

“Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, yeah… I just- I just thought of you…”

She bit her lip. “Mei Jie thanks you for the basket. But maybe next time you could change it up a bit. I see fruits overflowing Lun Ge’s bedside table.”

Jun chuckled at the hint of light-heartedness in her voice. “I forgot I’ve already sent fruits. I’ll keep that in mind.”

There was a pause in conversation. As if it was enough they know the other was on the other line.

“Where are you?”

“In the car.”

“Home?”

“No, something we need to handle first. Anyway, I just missed you…”

Mao closed her eyes. “Be safe…”

“I hope to see you when I get home… I didn’t see you last night.”

She caught something in his voice. “Okay…”

She put down the phone and slowly turned around. She looked up and was a bit startled to see Pi leaning against the wall and looking at her. He didn’t avert his gaze this time. She couldn’t read the expression in his eyes. Something close to last night… She immediately looked away; everything coming back to her. A hand went to her heart unconsciously and she started forward. She was almost in line with him. Her feet stopped when he spoke.

“Do you want to go get something to drink?”

Mao’s head snapped to him in surprise.

**

The bell announced there were new customers in the convenience store. Mao folded her umbrella, shaking off some of the water, and deposited it in a bin. She then took a left, running a hand through her slightly wet hair; the rain was a monster. She headed straight to the drinks at the back, with Pi behind her. They stopped in front of the different selections of sodas, juiceboxes, fruit juices, ciders energy drinks and water.

She took a glance at him; her lips quirked at the seriousness on his face when choosing a drink. Her eyes went towards the glass windows. The rain was really coming down hard. The strong winds weren’t helping either. They looked like they’ve gone for a swim in their clothes. Yet she didn’t feel that cold… They had shared her small umbrella after parking the car at a lot, a slight distance from the store; braving the elements. Why would he ask to go out in this weather? And why would she agree?

It had taken a moment for her to give her answer. It’s not exactly something she thought she’d hear from him. Maybe that’s why she said yes… Good thing, too, the guards didn’t give them a hard time and they were able to go, just the two of them. They’ve been quiet on the way here. She stole a glance again. What did he want?

“I think I’ll have a juicebox.”

“Grape juice?”

Mao gave a mild frown at him. “Yeah. That sounds good.”

He opened the display fridge and took one out. She reached for it; their fingers grazing each others. His eyes snapped to her and her heart gave a little jump. She couldn’t take it and decided to open the topic of what happened last night…

“I’m sorry.”

“For what?”

“Last night… I-I crossed a line. It was the wine, Hye, just the high I haven’t felt in a while… And- And I guess what I’m trying to say is…”

What is she trying to say? That it didn’t come from her…? That she was just feeling particularly reckless and was just playing…? That she doesn’t really think all that… But right now… Right now it feels as if she was back in that room… As if she wanted to be back in that room…

And it was alarming. All these feelings rushing through her right now… The one person she felt for like this was-

“So you’re buying then?”

Her eyes went to him, confused. “Huh?”

“Since you feel sorry, you should be buying me a drink then. And then- And then we can forget about it.”

His jaw had tightened slightly at that, as if that wasn’t really what he wanted to say. Forget about it… Did he take her out just to say that? Because it sounds impossible. It is impossible…

Mao’s eyes slid from him. Did she want that? Could she…? She took in a deep breath.

“Okay.” She said with a perky smile. “Take your pick then.”

She quickly turned around and headed for the counter. She placed the juicebox on it and took her wallet out. He appeared at her side; another grape juicebox was on the counter. Her lips gave an involuntary quirk; she can’t really imagine him sipping a juicebox. As she paid for the items, she gave him a sideway glance. He was looking at the juiceboxes with almost an amused smirk. They were about to step towards the door.

“Was it just because of those things?” His voice suddenly spoke, a slight urgency in them.

“What?” She asked slowly, turning to him.

“Was it just because of the wine, Miss Hye…? Or is there something more?”

Mao stood there, unable to speak as her eyes took in the expression on his face. He really wanted to know… He wanted to hear the truth… The sudden gust of wind that came in with another customer spoiled the moment.

Pi seemed to have come out of a trance, looking like he regretted his impulsiveness. He walked towards the umbrella without a word and stepped out. Waiting for her to come out; feeling a little agitated and once again at a lost. She slowly joined him under the umbrella. Both seemed adamant about not looking at each other.

The rain and wind surrounded them. Mao shut her eyes as the water sprayed them. They started their slow way against the onslaught. It felt like they were about to be blown off their feet. They haven’t made ten steps when their umbrella was turned inside out. The rain and wind were having their way with them.

She looked up and suddenly burst out laughing. The image of Pi still trying to hold on to their umbrella as he tried to keep his eyes open was just too funny. He could hear her laughing; her hands tugging at his arm and was shouting at him to just forget about the umbrella. He managed to close it amidst her laughter; he must have looked crazy. He threw the umbrella down; it was blown beyond repair. He heaved a sigh, water droplets spilling from his mouth as they stood there soaking.

Her eyes were filled with mirth, her shoulders shaking as she tried to steady herself against the wind. His lips lifted slightly, slowly and then he could hear himself laughing. Laughing under the rain. Laughing with her. Him.

She had looked at him, slightly in awe at the sight and then joined him. They probably looked crazy but they haven’t got a care right now.

“Should we run for it?”

The radiant smile she gave him was more than he could bear.

“Yeah, we should…”

**

“I hope this won’t take too long.”

Ohno caught the grim note in Jun’s voice as they entered the hotel. Wu Zun had set the time and place here. They started for the elevators.

“What did Da Ge say?”

“He’ll be coming in to sort things out with Wu Zun.” But that probably was what Wu Zun wanted; to have Da Ge out in the open. He’s using him to get to Da Ge. And if to get to that, he was hurting the reputation of their group then it was all the better.

“Da Ge has always been a little blinded with Wu Zun,” Ohno intoned as one of their men pressed for the elevator.

“Let’s hope this time he won’t be…”

**

Mao stopped running and just stood there on the sidewalk, a little out of breath. There was no escape from the rain and wind, but seemed like it wasn’t as bad as before. She heard him stop behind her. She turned towards the road, there were a few cars driving by but it felt like they were in their own world.

“This isn’t so bad, huh?”

Pi slicked back his hair and looked at her not quite understanding.

“The rain.” She stretched out her arms in front of her, palms out, feeling every drop. “It’s refreshing in a sense.”

Pi looked up, feeling the cold water on his face. Maybe he does understand what she means…

“I haven’t felt this free in ages.”

He looked back down at her. She had that contented smile on her face as she stretched her arms out to her side and closed her eyes, just taking in every feeling the rain and wind was giving her. As if they were just washing away everything… Every hurt... Every pain… Every sadness in her she could just feel flowing out of her… She turned her face towards the rain, dancing on the balls of her feet once in a while. She looked at peace with that small smile on her face.

He felt his throat constricting. Felt his feet starting to move. Towards her… Making his way slowly towards her… Unable to stop the pull she had on him… Not wanting to stop it any longer…

**

Jun stepped into the elevator; Ohno and the rest followed in. He watched the button for the restaurant on the third floor lit up. His mind going back to his phone call with Mao; suddenly wishing he didn’t have to be here. He looked absently at his watch. He’ll be home soon.

The elevator doors slid open.

A sudden movement from the men waiting outside.

Gunshots filled the small space. He felt the bullet go in his shoulder and then another. Someone jumped in front of him. A heat was slowly forming on his other side. He could feel the blood starting to flow. He had hit the elevator wall and slid down.

His men had jumped in front of the guns and pushed the assailants out of the way. The bullets entering their bodies. A couple of them were able to take their guns out and had started shooting. He looked down at his bloodied suit and hands. The gunshots had quieted down. The screams and shouts outside seemed faraway as his eyes slowly fell on Ohno.

He was on the floor, unconscious. Blood steadily soaking into his suit; some trickling down his mouth. His gun lying close to his hand. He pushed himself off and instantly slid to his side, checking his pulse. It was faint. His hands started applying pressure on the wounds. He’d taken most of the hits intended for him. Anguish rocked him as he shouted for Ohno over and over again. He took out his phone, wincing in pain. He shouted for someone to get help as well, panic and fear rising like waves in him, crushing him.

“Hold on, man. Hold on. Help is on the way,” he said over and over again.

The noises around him were deafening. He closed his eyes, feeling sickened. A wave of weakness hit him and the phone slid out of his hand. He felt his head slowly falling. He absently placed a hand on Ohno’s wound.

Hold on…

Hold on...

And everything went black.

**

Pi stopped in front of her. She hadn’t felt him; too engrossed in the light feeling she had surrounded herself with. His eyes roamed over her face; the rain trickling down her eyes, her cheeks, to her lips… He took another small step forward and leaned down, inch by inch.

The moment his lips met hers… He knew what he wanted… He knew where he wanted to be…

Her eyes flew open and she took a step back. Her hands clutching the front of her coat. She looked stunned, confused, scared… He stood there, not knowing what to do, his chest rising and falling; it was getting hard to breathe. And it got harder when he saw another look in her eyes…

Anticipation… Waiting… Waiting for him… For what’s coming next…

He took a tentative step forward. She didn’t back away. She didn’t run. She kept her gaze locked with his, a soft look in them. Mixed with a slight confusion; trepidation and yet… She didn’t move away. He was standing close to her again. Just inches…

He slowly leaned down… Her head tilted slightly…

His lips brushed hers lightly. Gently. The softness of her was doing so many things to him. Her eyes had fluttered close. His mouth claimed hers; shaping the contours of her lips with his. His eyes closed with the sensation; moving over every inch of her softly. She tasted so sweet…

He felt her hands clutch his coat. She gave a sigh and started to kiss him back. He felt an ache in him as she moved over him. The tender nips on his lips… Shattering something in him. He guided her lips to his shape again, slowly parting them. His hand moving up to cup her jaw but they just hovered ever so slightly… As if still unsure… Still afraid that if he touches her, he’ll find that she isn’t real… That she isn’t with him right now…

He felt her body press closer to his… Their kiss deepening. Two hearts pounding like crazy as they explored each other; gentle, poignant… With a deep need, a deep desire to let each other feel what the other was feeling…

He doesn’t taste the rain. Doesn’t feel the cold. Lost in just her… Her sweetness, her warmth… Letting her wash over him…

Wash away the pain…

Wash away the hopelessness…

Wash away the darkness he once knew…

Chapter 30: Truth or Dare

“What are you staring at?” Mao asked as she placed the plate of macadamia cookies on the table before sliding into her chair.

“Huh? Oh, nothing,” Hye gave a distracted smile. She sipped her coffee, her eyes straying back towards the coffee shop’s entrance.

Her eyes narrowed slightly and a small smirk played on her lips. Pi was standing just outside, occasionally looking in. Was he making sure she’s playing up the buddy vibe with Mao or does he just want to look at Mao? Which he seems to be really enjoying. Who was she kidding? His whole body language just screams the answer.

“Nothing? You’re staring at Pi,” Mao pointed out in an amused voice. She glanced back; he had his back turned to them, looking around. Her eyes went back to Hye.

“Well, he’s nice to look at, isn’t he? Admit it,” Hye teased, winking.

“I guess so. Once you see past the aggravating attitude,” Mao answered, with almost a hint of fondness in her voice. Hye’s ears instantly picked up on that. She seemed to have seen the light twinkle in Hye’s eyes at her comment and suddenly felt a little uncomfortable. “But it’s not like I’d want to stare at him or look at him for no reason. Right? I mean, why would anyone? Why would you?”

Hye’s adoration for her seemed to have gone another level as she watched her sip her coffee to cover her flustering moment. She gave a grin.

“Are you hinting at me not to stare or look at him? You can just say so, I don’t mind.”

Mao’s eyes snapped to her, sorta panicking at what she was suggesting. She really looked adorable trying to get out of this little teasing trap she made. “What are you saying? In which part did I say that?”

Hye gave a laugh as Mao swiped a cookie to nibble on. “I was just kidding! I’m not sure, but did you just call him ‘Pi’?”

“Yeah, it’s his nickname,” she gave a shrug. She’s been more comfortable settling on calling him by that. It just came out naturally once and she decided to stick with it.

“I seem to recall you were referring to him then as ‘Yamashita’,” Hye said, rubbing her chin thoughtfully. The grin on her face seemed to quiver with the thought that she sees what’s going on.

“What?” Mao couldn’t help but give a laugh at the expression on Hye’s face. She comes up with the most imaginative and silly ideas. Calling him by his nickname doesn’t mean anything. Why is she putting meaning behind every little thing? She gave a playful glare as Hye laughed once more, saying she loves teasing her.

Hye was eyeing the cookies and Mao chanced a glance back at Pi. He had turned to look in at the same time. She immediately looked away, her heart slightly jumping. It was most probably the effects of the caffeine. Yeah. She took a bite of the sweet cookie.

“Ooooh, he’s coming in,” Hye beamed, looking at the direction of the entrance.

“He is?” Okay, she didn’t have to be nervous about that. What was wrong with her? She’s letting Hye’s teasing get to her; making her think of things that really don’t exist. Would never exist. She shook herself mentally.

She felt him first. He appeared at her side, his phone held out to her. She looked up at him, nonplussed.

“It’s Ohno. Your phone seems to be turned off. He asks to speak with you.”

“Ah. Must be the battery again. I’ve been meaning to have that fixed.” She took the phone, not noticing the way Hye’s eyes bounced between the two of them looking like she’s found an extra cookie.

She spoke with Ohno briefly. He was just making sure she was safe and reminded her to have her phone fixed so he can contact her anytime. Mao had gotten worried once more; was all this extra precautions necessary? She asked if something’s happened, that he should just be straight with her but Ohno reassured her again. She was handing the phone back to Pi when someone bumped into him from behind.

“Oh, I’m sorry-“

“Ji Hoon?” Mao exclaimed, surprised, failing to notice the glare Pi had fixed on Hye. She stuck her tongue out a bit; she conveniently forgot to tell Pi this part of her plan. “I didn’t expect to see you in these parts.”

“Yeah, I’m meeting a client later for lunch. Just getting my morning coffee while I sort out some last minute details. It’s nice to see you again. Been a while,” Ji Hoon gave a smile; he could almost hear Pi’s jaw cracking from the way he was clenching it as he stood to the side.

“Would you like to sit with us for a bit?” Mao invited, indicating to the chair beside them. She wasn’t that familiar with Ji Hoon, other than knowing he was the lawyer her father and Uncle Kousaku usually raved about. Their level of interactions were more on the polite casual side, but she knew he was rather close to Jun, Ohno and Aiba. She thought she should at least offer an invitation.

Ji Hoon settled down with a grateful smile and Mao introduced him to Hye. They shook hands and Mao noticed the way their fingers lingered for a while. It must be just her imagination. But she observed the two that had struck a conversation easily; seems like they got quite a rapport going. Hye had unconsciously turned her whole body to Ji Hoon. Mao bit back a smile at her friend. But was suddenly startled as Pi loudly stated that he needed to use the washroom. She followed his back, looking a bit confused then turned to the conversation in front of her.

“I’m going to need a bit more sugar,” Hye excused herself after a while more of talking with Mao and Ji Hoon. She stood up and went towards the condiments bar, which was conveniently stationed close to the corner that leads to the bathroom. She took a packet of sugar and surreptitiously glanced back. Ji Hoon seemed to have Mao’s attention. Before she knows it, she was being pulled out of sight.

“Explain,” Pi said tersely, wanting to understand what Hye was up to.

“Why are you so wound up?” She tried to stall. Honestly, she didn’t know what made her do this. Well, she knows obviously after giving it a lot of thought but it’s a bit silly and she knew Pi will never understand and will never approve.

It’s been a while she had someone she can consider a close girlfriend. Someone to just drink coffee with, hang-out with, talk about nail polish with or check out cute guys with. Just be girls, in short. She’s found Mao and pushing aside Pi’s plan, she really just likes spending time with her. She sincerely hoped there wasn’t any underlying reason they’ve become friends; sometimes wishing things were different. But no matter how this started, Mao’s truly someone she is starting to really care about.

Along with that, she has this naïve side to her that wants Mao to at least ‘get to know’ Ji Hoon, a.k.a the boy she is interested in, who’s interested in her too but he’s not making any move friend. As if wanting to know what her opinion is about him and maybe eventually talk to her about things she’s never found anyone to talk to about yet. And in turn, she just wants Mao to see her as someone she can share her burdens with. Someone she can share anything with.

She can just imagine what expression will come across Pi’s face if she tells him the real reason. But Mao wasn’t the only one who needs a friend all along…

“This doesn’t make any sense. Why would you risk building a connection between the two of them? All it does is bring attention,” Pi said, somehow feeling today isn’t the last of it. He’s given up on actually trying to come up with an explanation and is skeptical Hye can come up with a good one too.

Hye rolled her eyes. She’s definitely thought about that too, but it’s too far-fetched that they’d make anything out of such a small encounter. Pi could just be overreacting. It comes with the undercover thing.

“You honestly think they’d make a connection with you and Ji Hoon over this? You and your conspiracy theories,” she attempted at light-heartedness.

“Ohno’s been keeping a close watch on me, on anything that comes up a little out of the ordinary. And if Ji Hoon starts hanging around you and Mao, he’s bound to at least try to find out why.”

“That Ji Hoon could just be interested in Mao’s pretty and fun friend,” Hye tried to dismiss his fears.

“Yeah and imagine if he starts looking into you.”

“He’s already had Ji Hoon do a check on me once.” Hye gave a frown.

“Seems to me he’s become a little doubtful of Ji Hoon’s capabilities in giving a thorough background check. I know for a fact he’s already had someone do another digging into my background. He’s growing a little more than wary of me. His protectiveness of Mao is to blame.”

“But I’m confident he won’t find what he wants,” he added. “Just that if he’s had me investigated again, chances are he’s going to do it with you, it’s going to be too risky. You and Ji Hoon have a history. If that didn’t come up in his first check on you, then he’s bound to suspect something is up.”

“But you’ve covered all those when I got this new life. Are you saying that doesn’t help?” Hye’s eyes showed the first trace of concern.

“That’s why it’s too much of a risk. I don’t know who his sources are this time. We never know what could happen. So please, Hye, whatever it is you’re thinking, just stop.”

Hye looked away from him. He had a point. Too much of a point. Which doesn’t help her at all. Can everything not just be so complicated? But they still haven’t got anything on Pi… Maybe it would be the same when it came to her… If he even decides to put an extra effort on her… But Pi was right about the protectiveness of those around Mao… She sighed inwardly. She didn’t want to make a decision right now and opted for a distraction instead. She was curious about something too.

“Did you just call her ‘Mao’?” Hye queried, a smile suddenly forming on her lips.

Pi seemed to be struck speechless at the question.

Did he?

“So?” His voice seemed to come out slower than usual. Not really sure if that was a mistake or not.

Hye tried to hide her excitement, fearing it would make Pi retreat into his shell for sure.

“I’ve never really heard you say her name before. It’s like you were making an effort before not to, you know, be too familiar with her. And I seem to recall hearing you say it twice now.”

“It’s just her name, Hye,” he suddenly snapped, looking a bit confused. Confused at the way his stomach is flip-flopping right now. It’s a non-issue. So why is he acting like this?

“We have much progress, huh?” She noticed the way he clenched his jaw. “So, you guys are on first name basis now? That is so cute! So she’s not calling you ‘Kabugi’ anymore?”

Pi was feeling a headache swelling. “No, we’re not. Don’t make things up according to your deluded sense of-“

She gave a laugh stopping Pi. He glared at her, averting his gaze. Deluded? She’s deluded? No way. Not when she is staring straight at a face that’s looking so guilty, confused and downright indignant. Which is all the more adorable because she knows he isn’t used to this; so it’s making her all the more giddy that he can feel all those when it came to her teasing him about Mao. He’s feeling all those when it came to her…

“So you’re not calling her Mao? But you would like to, right…?”

Pi’s narrowed eyes snapped to her. She better stop this.

“Did you know she seemed a little affected I was checking you out?” Hye divulged, as if it was some big secret.

Something changed in his expression and his hand shot to his tie, looking as if he suddenly wants to loosen it. Hye’s face lit up at that and before she could point her conclusion out, Mao’s voice behind stopped her.

“Hye?” Mao asked, mild confusion on her face. Her eyes went back and forth the two of them. “I was wondering where you went. What are you guys doing here…?”

“I was just trying to talk to him,” Hye said without hesitation. She looked back at Pi, giving a smile. His expression was closed. And then in a faux whisper to Mao, “You were right, his attitude really isn’t all that.”

Mao’s lips twitched, but her eyes were still trying to figure them out. Hye then loudly said they should go back to their table. Mao told her to go ahead; she needs the washroom. She forgot Pi was still standing there and paused in her step. Their gazes locked. The look she saw in them added more to her confusion.

“Is someone inside?” She then managed to say.

He gave a shake of his head. She then went ahead, brushing past him, feeling his eyes following her. Maybe it was all in her mind. She glanced back to see; he had already turned to go. A small crease formed between her brows. She gave a mental shake of her head and pushed the door in front of her.

**

“Wu Zun’s asking to talk tomorrow.”

Jun put down his glass of wine. Their waiter was handing him the menu. He took it as Ohno checked his phone once again when a message came in.

“Good. They should know how we feel about the fact that they’re adding more to the ridiculous rumors.”

They know perfectly well he was setting them up. They were genuinely disconcerted when news of Aaron Yan and his men’s bodies were found. They were the last known to have any encounter with the group. That was convenient. But what was more disturbing was when a conclusion about their deaths started to form in their minds. He and Ohno had looked at each other then. Would Wu Zun really kill his own just to set this trap?

Ohno placed his phone down on table. “They’re counting on the fact rumors have a lot of weight on people. But without any evidence of our hand in Aaron Yan and his men’s death, they have nothing on us. Though we still have to control all these talks, it’s not doing us any good.”

“At least there’s a tiny glimmer of hope he made the first move to reach us.” Jun gave a grimace at that, feeling far from it. The man can’t be trusted.

Ohno gave a shake of his head and reached for his glass. “Have you talked to Da Ge?”

“I’ve already left a message with him. I’ll probably be able to talk to him later in the day.”

“Here’s to wishing he knows what Wu Zun’s next move will be.”

Jun agreed, turning back to the menu. Wu Zun obviously knows his Da Ge will be involved in this. That’s who his real target is all along. They were just pawns in this game of his.

The problem was; how far is he really willing to go in this plan of his?

**

Mao pulled off her earphones and stretched, leaning back against her chair. She smiled down at a drawing of a hedgehog in front of her; a part of a new project “A Meeting at the Zoo” they’ve discussed earlier in the week. She asked the kids to draw what animals they would like to portray. They then would be making simple costumes based on their choices. She had merged her class with Mei Jie’s since she took a leave of absence to take care of Lun Ge. At least that would cover the hole their sensei’s absence is bound to make. Along with them, she wishes for her to be back soon.

She had relayed all this to her jie when she visited them at the hospital in the afternoon. The idea excited her. She seemed to be getting her cheerfulness back; Lun Ge had been doing good. The condition of his hand was still weighing down on them though… But Lun Ge has been back to making a few cold jokes and the visit had helped in lifting all their moods further.

Her hands went to her shoulders, rubbing them as her gaze absently strayed to the paper plane atop her books. Events from this morning played in her head again involuntarily. The slight confusion she feels coming back to her. Why is she thinking about that again? About Hye and Pi in that corner… Talking…

She raked a hand through her hair and it landed in a mess. She should just stop. So what if they were talking? It’s ridiculous; why would that affect her? But the way Hye gave him that smile… It was as if they were already sharing a private joke… Was that chemistry she saw between them? He wasn’t that approachable when it came to her…

She instantly snatched up her pencil and shook her head; her hair falling all over her shoulders. Why is she contemplating chemistry? Besides, she’s never been really good at chemistry. An exasperated scoff came out of her as she looked up the ceiling. Why is she making bad jokes to herself right now?

What is this she’s feeling? It doesn’t make any sense. She thought about how Hye had insisted Pi stay with them, she was buying him coffee. Pi looked like he’d rather be somewhere else but she voiced out that wouldn’t be such a bad idea. He’d taken a seat at the table behind them. She remembered the way Pi’s eyes were on Hye when she was talking to Ji Hoon. It looked like he wasn’t happy about something. He must have noticed her eyes had been on him and had looked back at his coffee. His actions…

Why can’t she just stop thinking about it?

She jumped when her phone rang. Silently thankful for interrupting her in her inexplicable musings.

“Hye?” She greeted. She paused. “I’m at the orphanage right now.”

“Oh, are you busy? I was looking for a drinking buddy. You up for it? Got a couple of wine bottles here.” She could imagine her smiling on the other end.

A drink? That will be good. She needs to unwind for a bit, something she’s slowly forgetting to do. And the stress had seriously scrambled her brain right now.

“Sure. Where are you? I’ll meet you there.”

“Actually, maybe you know a better place we can crash and enjoy these.”

Mao pursed her lips, her eyes going to the windows. Suddenly struck with an idea, a smile was slowly emerging on her lips.

“Yeah, I think I do.”

**

“Um… What were we saying again?”

Mao scrunched her face up.

There was a pregnant pause.

“I don’t really know.”

Giggles burst out from their lips. Mao’s foot connected with one of the empty bottles and it rolled across the floor. Hye tried to stop her giggling as she took the second wine bottle planted between the two of them. Mao leaned her head back against the wall and finished the contents of her glass. Both girls burst into another fit of giggles over nothing. Hye raised the wine bottle up, announcing it was empty. She turned to her side and looked inside the canvas bag for the third and last bottle.

Mao looked around the old classroom with a tipsy smile playing on her lips. Chairs and tables were piled high on the other end. They were in the older part of the lot; just behind the main building. When Hye asked where they could crash, she had suddenly remembered the times during high school when she and Aiba will be sneaking off from class to the abandoned greenhouse with a few beers in hand. Just because they can get away with it. Of course, their party will always be crashed by Jun, knowing their favorite haunt. The memory for once didn’t feel that much unbearable to think about… They’ve shared so much together… She doesn’t want to force herself to deny that anymore… They were a part of her…

She heard the pop of a cork and was pulled back to the present. She gave a serene smile as Hye signaled for her to put her glass out and she poured her some more wine. Hye put down the bottle and snapped her fingers excitedly.

“I remember what we were talking about,” she said, smiling widely. “I think you were asking- or was it me- Anyway, someone was asking who we’d prefer between Sam and Dean.”

Mao drained her new glass and wiped her lips with the back of her hand, her eyes bright and her face a little redder. “Oh, yeah… And whose answer was what?”

Hye stuck her tongue out in thought. “I think I’m for Sam. You chose Dean. I have a thing for the tall and lean types.”

She gave a light chuckle before sipping her wine. Mao gave a sage nod of her head and giggled, not really sure why she picked Dean. “What about me?”

“Bad boys?” Hye pointed at her, grinning.

Mao thought about it, tapping her empty glass gently on her chin. “Yeah, maybe you have a point.”

She gave a shake of her head and chuckled. Hye was observing her from the corner of her eye, somehow having an idea who she was thinking about now. She looked at the glass and formed her question casually.

“Have you ever been in love, Mao?”

Mao’s head turned to her, suddenly aware that Hye’s voice had turned serious and sincere. Hye met her gaze and smiled with her eyes. The shadow of a sad smile appeared on her lips as she thought of the man she had loved.

“Once…” Her quiet reply came.

Hye’s gaze grew somber.

“What’s his name? Who was he?”

“Jun… He’s someone I’m trying to forget.”

Hye inclined her head to the side, shooting her a quizzical look.

“It’s a long story,” Mao said. “I’ll tell you all about it, but tonight… Let’s just giggle about everything and anything, shall we?”

Hye nodded her head, raising her glass up, showing her understanding. She looked hesitant for a second but dove on anyway. “Just one more question, is it working? You, trying to forget him…”

Mao honestly didn’t know the answer. “I’m still not sure about that…”

And then to her horror, something flashed across her mind. An image of Pi. She grabbed the wine bottle and poured herself something to help her maybe forget about that. But she probably shouldn’t be panicking. It’s just because he once said he’ll help her forget… And he did help her, at some point… She sipped her wine, wishing her mind was back to not thinking about anything and just giggling at their shoes or something…

Hye’s small giggle then reached her ears. She seemed like she was bursting from her desire to get something off her chest. And it looked like she had been keeping it in all night.

“I got the lawyer’s number. Ji Hoon.” She could still see the blush creeping up her cheek despite the effects of the wine.

Mao ‘ooooh-ed’ and excitement for Hye filled her. Suddenly the wine’s effects were all coming back to her. “I didn’t want to impose anything on you but you guys looked really cute, you know? So did he call you?”

“Mao, it was just this morning,” Hye reminded, laughing.

“What’s that got to do with anything? He should make his move already. Why prolong it? He might lose his chance! You are the catch here, not him,” Mao giggled.

“I know,” Hye joked, giving her hair an airy flip.

Mao laughed and then a bright idea came to her. “Why don’t you call him?”

“What, like right now? No, he should call me first.”

“Fine. If you don’t get any sleep tonight, don’t complain to me. I won’t be up.”

Hye stuck her tongue out at her while Mao reached for the wine bottle. “But, what do you think of him? I mean, what’s he like?”

“I honestly don’t know much about him. Just that he’s a great lawyer, other than that… Though you guys seemed to hit it off. I think that’s what’s important.” Mao gave a smile as she put the bottle down. She took a sip of wine and casually finished, “I actually thought you were interested in Pi at first.”

Hye’s glass stopped halfway from her mouth, noticing the look on Mao’s face. She wouldn’t think that if… Laughter mixed with giggles came out of her.

“Him? No, no, no. You got it all wrong,” Hye then said, trying to hide her amusement at the fact Mao seemed really clueless at what’s going on with her right now. She felt for her a bit; she and Pi really are something. She could just pinch them for being too cute.

“And it doesn’t have anything to do with my choice, but I don’t think he would be interested in me.”

“Why not?”

Her being loyally indignant for her made Hye slide over to her, put her arm across her shoulders and gave her a semi-hug.

“You are too cute!”

Mao laughed at the pinched expression on her face and she mimicked her.

“You really don’t know why?” Hye then asked her.

Mao gave a slight frown at her. There was a playful glint in her eye.

“So, are you ready to play dare? To add a little excitement to the night.”

Mao stared at her for a moment and then laughed out loud, suddenly all giggly and high. Hye was asking her what it was, if there was something on her face. Mao was just so glad to be back to being silly and just do the most random stuff.

“Okay, I want you to call Pi right now and ask him to come over and have a drink!”

That stopped her laughter instantly.

“W-What? Why? I don’t even know where he is. He didn’t come with us back here. Can we do something a little more original? Like asking me to graffiti some walls or- or throw toilet paper around or something.”

“Original. Yeah.” Hye raised a brow at her ideas. She then started searching the pockets of Mao’s cardigan for her phone. Mao was pushing her hands away, somehow triggering another laughing fit. “You are going to call him right now. Tell him you were just thinking about him.”

“What?” Mao was almost breathless from laughing. “I wasn’t-“

Hye cheered triumphantly when she managed to pull out her phone before she could be stopped.

“What’s his name? Pi? Kabugi?” Hye looked cross-eyed as she checked her contacts.

“Stop.” Mao tried to snatch the phone away. She didn’t know why she couldn’t seem to stop laughing. Her heart was going into overdrive right now. Somehow a part of her didn’t mind though…

Hye shushed her, catching her hands, attempting to stop them from taking her phone away. She slid away, giggling as Mao tried to pull her back to her. But the laughing was getting in the way of that.

The giggles continued as they tried to play catch on the floor.

**

“What the hell, Pi?”

Pi looked away from the fierce glare Sho was directing at him right now.

“Aaron Yan ends up dead and you don’t find it necessary to tell me Matsumoto may have something to do with it?” Sho was clearly trying not to step from behind his desk and shake him by the collar.

“Matsumoto has nothing to do with that.”

“Oh, so you know this because you know everything that’s going on in that house. It’s interesting that I don’t hear anything from you when the time calls for it!”

“Look, I know you want to get Matsumoto. But pinning murders that has nothing to do with him is not the way.”

“I’m not trying to pin anything on anyone.” Sho’s jaw tightened. “We could have had a lead in this if you had given the information that Matsumoto had went to see him. Maybe it wouldn’t have ended this way if we had been there-“

“There’s clearly something bigger behind this. Whatever we could have done wouldn’t have been able to stop this. Whatever this is, it’s on Wu Zun’s side. You can start from there.”

“What is it you’re not telling me, Pi?” Sho suddenly leveled with him, observing him closely. More than the fact that a huge issue had just broken out under his nose, he was more worried about his friend.

“What do you mean? Look, I made a mistake-“

“Somehow, I feel your priorities aren’t what they used to be. Do you still want to get Matsumoto?”

Pi frowned at that question. Sho’s look was unnerving. Like he’s figured something out that he was trying hard not to acknowledge.

“Of course I want to get Matsumoto. Why do you think I risked getting in their group?”

“I don’t doubt you started with that in mind, but now… You really haven’t been giving me anything concrete, Pi.”

“I seem to recall you’ve had a few successful busts-“

“I don’t think having you inside helps in any way anymore. Maybe it’s time to get out of there and-“

“What?” Pi was caught off guard at the panic that suddenly rose in his chest. He can’t pull out. Not just yet. “You can’t honestly think that.”

Sho was frowning at him. “Something just doesn’t feel right. What is going on with you? You seem to be distracted lately. And I found a problem in Ji Yong’s report.”

Pi’s eyes snapped to him. Problem? He made sure that damn lollipop was off everytime he knows he has a chance of being in a compromising situation. What problem could Ji Yong have heard?

“The bug is almost never on, Pi. That wasn’t really the point of having that with you.” Sho seemed to be trying hard not to grit his teeth in irritation.

“Lay it out, Sho. You don’t trust me.”

“I’m concerned for you! I don’t have any idea what’s going on with you inside. But it’s clear something’s just off with you these days.” Sho was trying to justify what he’s doing. If he doesn’t do anything about it, there’s no way he’d know what’s really going on with him.

Before he could react, the phone in his breast pocket rang. Sho shook his head and gave a sigh as Pi took it out. He frowned at the name on the screen.

“I really need to take this. In fact, I have to go,” Pi then told Sho, already walking backwards to the door. “Next time maybe we could do this on the phone. Coming here is too risky.”

Sho didn’t need to know there is an extra reason he should be careful now. The reason being Ohno is starting to get suspicious of him. For different reasons. For reasons he’d rather not let Sho know.

He turned around, his hand on the doorknob when Sho’s next words stopped him.

“I wanted to see the look on your face when you try to convince me everything’s fine. I didn’t see what I hoped to see.”

Pi’s lips formed into a cheeky smile and he turned to look at Sho. “The stress is making you into a worry wart, Sho. A much bigger and nastier worry wart. I gotta go. Just know everything is fine.”

He didn’t wait for Sho’s reply and yanked the door open. He stepped out and his phone stopped ringing. He looked down at it. Seconds later, she was calling again. Glad that no one was around their department right now, he picked up, suddenly feeling nervous.

“Hello?”

There was no sound from the other line. A yelp suddenly came like someone’s been pinched. Giggles came next.

“He already knows it’s you. Say something already.” Hye. Hye was with her. What are they doing?

Giggling again. This time they belonged to her.

“What is it?” Pi asked, glancing back to see if anyone was coming in. Hoping Sho wouldn’t suddenly think of coming out of his office.

“Where are you right now?” Her voice was different. Shy almost…

“I’m… Is everything okay?”

More giggles. Okay…

“You’ve been drinking.” It wasn’t a question.

“Want to join us- me?” There seems to be a struggle on the other end. He could hear Hye laughing giddily.

There was a pause. Like somebody was coaching her what she should say. “I was just… thinking about you and you know… so, can you come over here right now? Let’s have a drink.”

There were no giggles this time. A nervous chuckle came from her instead.

“He’s not answering,” he then heard her tell Hye, her words slightly slurring.

Footsteps suddenly sounded behind him; Koyama and Massu had stepped in, guffawing and joking around loudly.

“I’ll be there.”

“Pi!” Koyama cheered upon seeing him. And then started, “Hey man, that’s a new expression on you.”

Pi pocketed his phone, ignored him and started to go while they asked him to stay for a while more. He didn’t seem to hear them and he was out the door.

**

The door creaked open and he looked around the dimly lit room. He could hear the soft giggles somewhere in the middle and the steady murmur of voices. He stepped in, carefully shutting the door. It made a sound and this time he was heard.

“Pi!” Hye said in all familiarity.

The two women were giggling again. What is it with them? Pi slowly made his way towards them. Three bottles of wine were on the floor and all three looked empty to him. Those weren’t the only ones on the floor. There sat the two, leaning against the wall, looking slightly red and truly happy about something.

“Hi…” Mao gave him a little tipsy smile. He tried not to think about the thing he was thinking about when she aimed that at him.

“We seem to have depleted our supply of these giggle-inducing wines,” Hye announced unabashed.

Yeah, more giggles. Again.

Hye had a hand over her mouth; her eyes darting to and from the two of them. She should just leave the two of them to sort whatever it is out. She looked at two again. At Pi’s frown and Mao’s serene smile. Definitely, she should go.

“I need to use the ladies’. So if you’ll excuse me… I won’t be back for a while,” she whispered not-so-subtly as she stood up. She went past Pi and avoided his eyes, humming a little tune, her steady feet taking her. Pi’s narrowed glare followed her out the door. He then turned back to her, who was starting to get up.

“We were playing dare,” she offered as if she heard someone asking the question.

Pi stood there, torn between going over to her and helping her up and telling her that she should leave him out of their game. He didn’t like the things he heard over the phone. Not one bit. It was giving him that uncomfortable feeling in his stomach again. And it was growing by the minute.

“Let’s just get you home.”

She pushed her hair out of her face, leaning against the wall, now standing. “You know, I think maybe we should have had some food with the wine. But it has been a while I’ve loosened up like this.”

“You’re just tipsy, not drunk. So I can get you home without trouble.”

Her eyes went to him and focused on him. “All those things I said-“

“Yes, a dare. I heard. We’ll just wait for Miss Hye and-“

“They were what I wanted to say. Well, some of them, I think. One of them?” She was looking thoughtful. Her mouth in a little pout.

Something inside him was doing that flip-flopping thing again.

“Like what?” His throat seemed to be tightening. He indicated to the empty wine bottles. “You wanted to have a drink with me?”

“No,” Mao said, looking serious. “That I was thinking about you.”

He seemed to have frozen at that.

“Why?” He didn’t seem to be able to think of other words right now. Does he know other words?

“I was wondering… if you’re the one who can help me forget.”

He gave a swallow. That uncomfortable feeling was now in every fiber of his being. “So, you want to use me again to forget. No problem. What do you want to do?”

“You know, that-“

She took a step forward, lost her footing. He was immediately at her side, steadying her. She looked up at him; his arms were around her. He seemed to have caught himself; he took away his hands as if burned. She seemed to have noticed this. Before he could step away, her hands shot out. To his surprise, she held on to the front of his suit. Just lightly.

Their gazes locked. She seemed just as surprised as him at the forward gesture. But she never let go nor did he step back.

“That ‘using each other’ part, do you really believe that?”

“Maybe we should go now.” With the dark room, the close proximity to her, with her looking a little flushed… He wasn’t so sure anymore.

“Do you?” Her eyes searched his face for the answer.

“Yes.” His ears were pounding. He stopped himself from closing his eyes to will himself to believe that.

“I don’t… I don’t think I believe it…”

He couldn’t tear his gaze away from her. Something in them was telling him to draw closer. But he had to keep his head together, no matter how crazy his heart was pounding right now.

She looked down at her hands. He felt one of them moving up, sliding towards his chest. Almost just hovering, her fingers slightly grazing the material of his suit to his shirt. He swallowed convulsively; it’s as if his skin was slightly heating up. Her hand then stopped. She looked up at him for a second, feeling his hammering heart. His breath caught when she suddenly moved closer. She turned her head, leaning her ear just ever so slightly against his heartbeat.

“Neither do you…”

She pulled away, her eyes going back to lock with his. She felt a weakening inside her as his gaze slowly grew intense. For the first time, those dark orbs were now looking at her with heart wrenching vulnerability, mixed with an uncertain hope; as if he didn’t dare think all this was really happening. That she was right in front of him. He took a step closer, their bodies just inches apart. His head was slowly leaning down, his gaze flicking to her lips for a breath’s moment and back to her eyes.

Her heart hammered inside her, feeling as if it was going to burst out any minute. She angled her head up, her hands curling on his suit, as if anticipating that moment… That moment when… She could feel his heartbeat mirroring hers. She couldn’t feel his hands on her but she could feel him entirely, the slow heat radiating from him…

The sound of the door opening and Hye’s voice broke the moment. She had missed the scene where they instantly pulled apart; distracted by the search for a lip-gloss in her purse. Mao leaned against the wall, her hands on her stomach looking breathless. Her eyes went to him and he looked like he had just been punched in the stomach. They both looked away when their eyes met.

“What happened?” Hye asked, a little clueless, but by the way she was observing them, it was only a matter of seconds that she will come up with her own conclusions.

Mao’s head snapped to her. “N-Nothing. What could happen in five minutes?”

“I’ll just- I’ll just be… outside,” Pi then said, looking a little lost. His feet immediately moved towards the door, not meeting anyone’s eyes.

Hye’s lips turned into a small smile as she watched Mao turn around, picking up the empty wine bottles, chattering away, saying just about anything just so Hye wouldn’t ask any further questions. Hye listened to her unspoken request and didn’t push the situation. She’s got her answer already anyway.

Something’s definitely happened…

Chapter 29: Consequences

==

“Your Spongebob board shorts are all packed in so it’s time to go. You said we’ll squeeze in a light lunch before going to the airport… “ Mao’s teasing voice trailed off, stopping in her tracks. She pushed her sunglasses onto her head, unable to believe what she was seeing.

“Mao…” Jun had managed to tear his gaze away from his laptop screen and locked with her reproachful eyes.

She knew what that “Mao” meant. She’s heard it countless times before.

“No.”

“Mao-“

“No, no, no, no, no.” Her brows snapped together. Crossing her arms across her chest, she advanced on him. She went around his desk and stopped in front of him. He turned to her and looked up; guilt written all across his face.

“We have been planning this for months and we are going to Okinawa.” Her voice was firm; there will be no discussions. But the look he was giving her right now made her want to stomp her foot on the carpeted floor in frustration. This was not going to go her way.

“But I can’t just leave right now. There’s been-“

She threw her beach bag onto the table, ensuring it landed right on his laptop.

“You can’t just-“

Mao stopped him from turning back towards his table. She was the one he was supposed to be more concerned with. He grudgingly looked up at her again. The steely gaze she was giving him keeping his mouth shut.

“We are going. You promised you won’t bail out on me again.”

“Well, back then I didn’t know we would be facing a problem at this moment, did I?”

Silently cursing the situation right now, she bit her lip lightly. The situation seemed serious enough for Jun to actually cancel on her. Again. Honestly, she’s already lost count. But she won’t go down without a fight. Maybe she should try a different approach. Her eyes flicked towards him.

A softer approach…

She then leaned down towards him slowly. Her voice suddenly turning coy.

“Are you telling me you’d much rather go find your associates right now and compare the size of your guns than go to Okinawa with me?”

Jun gave her an exasperated look. “We don’t compare the size of our- Is that what you think we do?”

“Yes,” she replied without missing a beat, turning on one of the cute smiles that she knows Jun can’t fight. “What else is there? You’re probably just going to have a staring contest trying to intimidate the other, wave some guns around, maybe smoke a few cigars and then go home and repeat the whole damn thing all over again tomorrow. And you didn’t answer my question.”

The irritation started to swell in him. “Mao…”

She sensed that. She knew it was the stress speaking. He’s got a lot on his mind lately. This is why he needs this vacation too. Why can’t he see that?

“Don’t “Mao” me.”

He looked startled as she climbed up onto his lap, settling comfortably, her hands resting on his shoulders; she gave a light pout. He leaned back against his chair, giving a sigh. He knew she would try this. He averted his gaze, trying not to be affected by those eyes of hers. But he couldn’t ignore the feel of her toned thighs against the thin layer of his pants.

“What are you doing?”

Mao was loosening his tie. “You won’t need this where we’re going. You’re going to go change right now.”

His hands went to her waist, his eyes imploring. “I know how much you’ve been anticipating this, but Mao, I really can’t right now… I promise the trip will happen. Just not as planned. I’ll go over the new plans with you tonight, okay? We’ll be out of here next week.”

Next week? She’s heard that before. She wanted to go right now. She’s always allowed him to push their plans before but today, well, today she’s just had enough.

“I’ve already booked us a couple’s massage.” She pulled the tie down and unbuttoned his shirt.

“Darling…”

“There’s a Jacuzzi in our room. Imagine how relaxing that would be…” She bit her lip, smiling at him with her eyes. Her hands had gone around his neck, her fingers teasing the hairs close to his nape. “Maybe we can cancel the massage and improvise on our own…”

He was loving the sensation but he had to focus and be firm. “It sounds wonderful and we’ll have that next week.”

“Don’t you want that now…? Tonight…?” She deliberately moved around, sliding closer towards him.

Jun couldn’t help it. A languid smile broke his lips. His hands slid down to her exposed thighs, loving the feel of her skin; belatedly grateful that she was wearing jean shorts.

“Are you trying to seduce me into going?”

“Maybe…” The provocative smile came alive on her lips. She stopped herself from scowling at the look on his face. Like she wouldn’t be able to do it. She leaned in close to his ear; her lips almost kissing it. “Maybe I just can’t wait till next week… I have a lot of plans for us…”

“Like what?” He asked when she pulled back. His devilish grin challenging her.

He wasn’t cooperating! But the slow heat emanating from him and his hooded gaze told her he was more than curious. She bit her lip almost seductively. She’ll teach him to act unaffected.

Jun almost groaned when she took her hands away. They had been playing with his hair and he hadn’t wanted her to stop. She took his tie in her hands and gave a wicked smile. Jun gave a throaty laugh as she placed it over his eyes.

The tie was in place. Mao stuck her tongue out at him, knowing he wouldn’t see.

“This isn’t anything new, really,” he reminded her, a smug smirk on his lips.

She made a face at him. She shifted slightly, accidentally on purposely brushing a hand against him and she felt his muscles leap at that.

“I just want you to feel everything…” She said, breathily close to his ear once more. Her hands making their way up his chest; clawed fingers sending a shiver through him.

He tried not to swallow. The giddy curiosity burning in him he tried to quell. This isn’t the time… but then she shifted again. Not knowing it was due to the fact she was trying hard not to strangle him.

She wasn’t supposed to be doing this. She should be having those crab cakes she was craving and getting ready to document every second of their trip. Her narrowed eyes focused on him, deliberating on what to do next, as he waited. Seducing him really wasn’t in the itinerary.

He felt her warm breath close to his ear once more, suddenly realizing he may end up on the losing end. He might not have thought this through.

“Jun…”

Now he was sure. And he tried to salvage whatever chance he has to stop it from spiraling into something he has no control over. How could he have forgotten the fact that she has always and can always easily make him feel like an oversexed fourteen year old?

“Okay, you’ve proven your point. You really want to go but I-“

She stopped his hand from taking the tie off. His eyes shut tighter as the soft giggle escaped from her lips; fairly certain that she’s got him. Her hands were slowly massaging his chest, going up and down in rhythmic strokes; intended to awaken something in him. They suddenly stopped and his protest almost spilled from his lips.

“You’ve got me thinking about it and now you want me to stop…?” He felt her press closer, her hands still splayed on his chest. Her breath tickling his ear. “I can’t, Jun… You’ve been so busy lately and I… I miss you…”

“Now I can’t stop imagining you… Lying down on our hotel bed with me on top of you… Just like this… Only…” She gave a low chuckle. “Only there’s nothing separating us… And I can feel you under my fingertips… Can almost taste you…”

Jun tried hard not to swallow convulsively as she slowly slid a finger down. Resenting the fact his shirt was in the way.

“Are you imagining it too…?”

“No, I’m imagining Ohno picking his nose.” His body was not though.

Mao stifled a giggle at his dry comment. But she heard a slight catch in it. And she could feel his right thumb slowly circling her inner thigh as if saying he wanted more.

“And I’m imagining dipping my head and brushing my lips on your neck, trailing down to your chest… Grazing my teeth against a sensitive spot and then taking it into my mouth…” Her hands followed her words down to the very same spot, feeling his hardening body under her. His hips seemed to be gravitating towards her and she gave a satisfied smile. “I can taste you again…”

The ache in her voice almost made him moan. He couldn’t seem to make his throat work and tell her to stop. His body had been in need for her for a while now… That need just wasn’t magnified until now… He drew in a shaky breath.

“And I’m making my way further down… Taking you in with my mouth, my teeth, my tongue… Sliding down your skin… Past your navel…” She gave a small whimper. His fingers dug into her thighs as her hands made their painstakingly slow way down. “Further down…”

His hips bucked slightly into her hands as they stopped there. His chest rising and falling in a fast rhythm. His heart pounding.

“And then…”

He didn’t know if he wanted to know. Something was threatening to burst out of him. The throaty moan tore from him when she took his earlobe gently into her mouth. Showing him how she was going to play with him… She then slipped her tongue out flicking it skillfully. His body arched involuntarily; his hands sliding to her bottom. Her lips clamped on the fold of his ear, her moist breath leaving a trail, sucking and licking as she made her way back to his earlobe and up again. She reeled him in further with her tongue plunging into his ear over and over again. The small moans she makes adding further to his heightened senses. Her body’s movements causing friction against his rock hard thighs. And when her teeth met his earlobe, he emitted a low growl and clamped her bottom tighter; pulling her closer to his painful arousal. His name on her lips… Her body pressing closer, wanting to ride him further… His fingers went to the button of her shorts, intending to take them off soon. He moaned again as her mouth and tongue continued to torture him and he sank his teeth into her shoulders. The button on her shorts had come off and his fingers had started to slide in when a sound from the laptop broke into his drugged mind.

He suddenly stopped; an effort of superhuman level. His hands went to her arms and he held her back. He took one hand away and pulled the tie down; his breathing labored as Mao looked at him with a delicious stare, a lazy smile on her lips. She licked her lips a bit and gave him a not so innocent look. He willed his body not to react to that, ignoring the stabbing pain going through him.

“There’s something I really need to do, Mao.”

“Me?”

He almost lost it when she gave a shy giggle and peeked under her lashes at him. Was she blushing? Oh, God. It was hard for him to collect his thoughts when her hands are still on his hips. When she is still on him. He tried not to think about pushing her onto the table and ravaging her. The desire to take her then and there still pulsating through him.

“So, are you going to get changed yet? We might be late for our flight.”

He gritted his teeth. Mao was purposely moving her hands closer to his- “Who says we’re going?”

She looked down at the obvious sign and bit her lip. He was still trying to fight it. She met his gaze, a mischievous glint in her eyes, and raised a brow. He fought the need to claim those stubborn lips of hers.

“Because if we don’t go, how are we going to finish…?”

“We can do it right here, right now. I swear to God I’m going take you, pin you to the floor and drive into you so deep till you’re senseless. I’m going to make you scream so hard and when we’re done you won’t be able to walk anymore. I will do it, Mao.”

It really wasn’t much of a threat. He just needed to let out what he is dying to do.

She looked at him and smiled knowingly. “Let’s see you try then.”

His hips seemed to be looking for hers again.

“But what makes you think I will let you? The only place I’ll let you do whatever you want is in Okinawa. So…”

He frowned at her. He can’t see an end to this. He tried to calm his body down but sees no remedy to that either. The frustration hit harder. He covered his face with a hand.

“Just go. There’s no use talking to you,” he snapped.

“Are you serious?”

He put his hand down and looked at her, glaring at him. The irritation came back to him. The problem he needs to be dealing with looming above him coupled with the frustration that only she can ease was making it hard for him to be understanding towards her anymore. It’s a done deal. They’re not going and she can’t make him change his mind. He doesn’t want to go over it again and again. He already told her they will go next week.

“Yes. If you can’t understand how important it is for me to stay here then there’s really nothing to say anymore. We’re not going. And you know what, if you can’t appreciate my offer of going next week then forget about that too,” he said, clenching his jaw, trying to forget the stiffness in his body.

Mao’s eyes flashed. “You have the galls to be all high and mighty about that? This isn’t the first time you’ve cancelled. Paris, Bangkok, New York- I can’t even remember the last time you’ve kept a promise! You always swore to me it’s going to be the last time and I actually believe you! You can’t even give me three days?”

“It’s not about that! This is something very important and I have to be here-“

“More important than spending our time together? Your work is more important than us?”

“You’re twisting my words. I didn’t say that-“

“Funny, because ever since, your work seems to always come before us. Before me!”

“Oh, so that’s what this is all about?”

“Wipe that expression off your face or I will. Don’t make it sound like I’m purposely trying to be difficult.”

“You are purposely trying to be difficult instead of just understanding-“

“Fine! Why do I always have to be the one compromising? Is it so wrong for me to be selfish for once? To actually want what I want when I want it. You can’t choose them over me. It’s not supposed to work that way!”

“You sound like a child right now!”

“Don’t you use that condescending tone on me!”

The door to the study suddenly opened.

“Jun, there’s something we need to-“

“Close the door!” Mao and Jun simultaneously shouted.

Ohno looked up from the paper he was poring over to find Mao sitting on top of Jun; the two of them glaring at each other.

“Okay, I don’t even want to know.” They heard him say as he made to close the door; Aiba’s voice ringing out asking what was up.

They continued to glare at each other in silence when his laptop sounded again. Mao’s eyes snapped to it. In a flash, she had shoved her bag aside, snapped the laptop shut and had taken it in her hands.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Jun demanded, seeing the dangerous glint in her eyes.

She thrust her chin out and raised her hands high above her head, wanting to just smash the damn thing onto the floor.

“Oh, that’s mature.” Jun said; his voice icy. “Put it down.”

Her stomach churned at the sound of his voice, at the sight of him. She slammed it none too gently back on the table as Jun’s eyes flashed. She instantly pushed herself off him; not wanting to touch him or even look at him. Grabbing her bag, she stalked off towards the door, feeling his gaze boring into her back. Jun’s eyes closed at the sound of the door banging shut. Cursing out loud.

Moments later, Ohno tentatively opened the door. Jun was still glowering at the wall and didn’t seem to hear him. He cleared his throat as he walked in; knowing it really isn’t the time to be pushing Jun but they had a schedule.

“Jun,” was all he said.

Jun’s eyes snapped to him. It had taken him a moment to realize what Ohno was doing there. His brow creased.

“I’ll meet you outside. Give me fifteen minutes.”

Ohno looked at him and thought it best not to challenge that. He heard the door close, thankful that Ohno didn’t ask any questions. It would have been awkward telling him it’s because he needed a cold shower first.

Or twenty.

**

Mao flipped through the channels absently. She was curled on the couch, hugging her sweater closer to her. The next second she felt the couch move. Someone had sat next to her. She ignored him. Didn’t acknowledge that there’s anyone in the room with her, much less seating next to her. The television was a blur of programs in front of her.

His hand closed in on her left one and she immediately pulled away. She moved away from him and of course he followed. She inched away once more; he was going where she was. A few more inches and she’d met the end of the couch. His hand shot out and stopped her, knowing she was going to stand up. She tried pulling away but his hand tightened over hers even more.

She glowered at the television. A cooking show was on. His hand remained over hers for the next fifteen minutes as they sat in silence. Both pairs of eyes trained on the cooking show; not really taking in any of the program. His fingers curled tighter.

The next instant, she was hitting his arm with her other hand. Punching, punching harder, pinching, using the remote control as a weapon. She did this for a while more and he just sat there and let her take her frustrations out. She gave a huff when she felt satisfied and was back to glowering at the television as if the chef’s mustache was offending her.

Another half hour had passed; he never once took his hand away and she never tried to pull away again.

“I don’t particularly like you right now.” She suddenly announced to the room.

His thumb had started stroking her hand again.

“And I hate your unibrow.”

He gave her hand a light squeeze.

“You have freakishly thin feet.”

She felt his shoulders move.

“You have poofy hair.”

He intertwined his fingers with hers.

“You-“

His mouth claimed hers, his other hand reaching up to cup her jaw. She pushed him away, glaring, and wiped her lips with the back of her hand.

“You don’t get to kiss me yet!”

“It’s the only way I can get you to stop trying to insult me.” He gave a melting smile; wanting to get into her good graces again. Honestly, it was hard to concentrate the whole day knowing she’s fuming over him.

“I can say whatever I want because you were being a jerk.”

“I’m sorry,” he said earnestly. He gave the back of her hand a chaste kiss. “I know you’ve never really asked for this but-“

“It’s just the way it is…” Her voice suddenly sobered up. Something flickered in the back of her eyes. She turned to him and gave a small smile. Almost tired… “I know… I’m just… I know it’s not something you wanted too… And I apologize for acting the way I did but I guess everything just snowballed and…”

She looked down at his hand and clasped it tighter.

“I know you want things to be different, Mao…”

“It’s okay.” She looked up at him. The smile she gave wavered a bit. She understood his loyalty to his father’s legacy, his loyalty to his men… Her moment of weakness was unfair to him she knows. But she just needed to feel the resentment, to let out her deepest desire that they can have a life outside of this one…

Jun observed her for a moment more.

“I was serious about next week. We’ll have that trip.”

She gave a nod. “Okay then.”

Her smile was extra bright, but he saw the look that told him she doesn’t believe it anymore. Won’t fully believe it anymore. She wasn’t going to get her hopes crushed like that again. He tugged at her hand gently, his gaze locking with hers. She understood that look. The look that’s asking for her not to tire of this… Not to tire of him…

He has no need to ask that…

She indicated for him to place his arm over her shoulders, smiling lovingly at him. She burrowed into him, nuzzling the crook of his neck, taking in his scent. He leaned his head on hers and closed his eyes as she whispered softly.

“Baka…”

Contentment fell on the both of them. Her hand went over his waist as he pulled her closer. She could stay like this forever…

“So…,” he then said against her temple after a few minutes of contented bliss. “Are we going to pick up where we left off earlier…?”

A throw pillow ran smack into his face, muffling his playful laughter.

==

Jun rubbed his face with a hand tiredly. He blinked at the laptop in front of him, checking the time. It was almost eleven in the evening; Mao should be home by now. But her worry over Lun and Mei was probably keeping her there. He leaned against his chair and rested his eyes.

He didn’t want to allow himself to have the chance to think about what has happened but the thoughts just keep pressing in. Ohno had voiced his firm opinion that they have to look at every angle first before actually taking any action. The rumors were not without cause and the situation just screamed trap. Wu Zun’s side wouldn’t make a move without calculations. And they have to do the same.

But the longer they wait for another alternative… The more in danger Lun and Mei would be no matter what is said. Even though it goes against better judgment, he had to step in. Whatever they do, Wu Zun will find a way to get to them. But he won’t sacrifice two lives just so he can avoid what was inevitable. He remembered the look Ohno had given him when every lead turned up too easily. But he had decided…

His eyes snapped open. He heard the front door closing. His eyes went to the door of his study; he had left it open, in the hopes that Mao would see the light and know he was still up. That he was waiting for her… Hoping she will come and find him… He heard her hesitant steps walking towards the staircase. His gaze was still fixed on the door. Willing for her to appear in front of it. He couldn’t hear a sound. He was holding his breath.

His heart pounded when he finally saw her peeking in tentatively.

“Jun…?”

He kept his voice steady; feeling like his heart was going to give out. “How are they?”

She slowly stepped in, a wobbly smile on her lips. “Better.”

Her jie has got Lun Ge back. That was the only thing she wanted. She had talked to the doctor in charge of Lun Ge as soon as she got to the hospital. He was stable now but the effects of the injury to his hand were still too early to tell. It was broken in two places; they can’t say if his hand will be able to function like it used to. But with therapy, chances are there.

She had started for their room, mulling over this. A clatter from inside the room made her jog towards it. She stopped by the door; her jie was picking up Lun Ge’s food tray. She seemed to have dropped it, her emotions clearly still all over the place. She wiped her tears away, placing the tray on the bedside table. The bandaged Lun Ge had his eyes on her, waiting for her to turn towards him. He reached out his left hand when she didn’t move.

Mei had looked at his outstretched hand. She gave a sniff and reluctantly took it, stepping nearer to his bed. Lun carefully tried to sit up, his hand still clasping hers. Mei had asked him not to move around too much, his injuries… But he didn’t care; after the effort, he looked up at her, tears starting to form in his right eye. Mei bit her lip, stopping herself from crying out. Lun was pulling her to him and buried himself into her stomach, apologizing over and over again. Clinging to her. Mei had looked down at him and hugged his head to her, unable to hold back any longer.

She was almost in tears as she leaned against the wall outside, witnessing such a tender moment. They’ll be okay… It will always be okay in the end… As long as they have each other… She had waited for a while longer before going into the room to just hug the both of them.

“Mei Jie thanks you again…”

Jun gave a shake of his head.

“Really, Jun, thank you… I won’t forget this…“

He slowly got up from his chair. “I think our relationship goes beyond still having to thank each other like this. I don’t want to hear it again. We’re not strangers here.”

She gave a weak smile as she watched him walk towards her. His eyes full of concern. He stopped in front of her and looked down. Mao watched as he lifted his hand up, slightly unsure at first, and then gently brushed some of the hair that had fallen over her eye. Her thoughts went involuntarily to the scene at the hospital; Mei Jie and Lun Ge. Having someone close to you like that… To take away all the pain, all the exhaustion in one swift moment… Someone to hold you till you’re weak in the knees… She misses that… Truly misses that… And she can have that again, if she lets him…

Jun carefully reached down for her hand; covering it completely with his. He looked to her. She was looking at their hands together with an air of sadness. He looked back down. Before, if he holds on to her just long enough, she’ll soften with him… Whatever it fight they had… Whatever misunderstanding they encountered… Just holding on to her would fix it… And he wished with everything in him that it will be just like that again…

“Mao… About what you said… About us…” He couldn’t make himself meet her gaze. “I can’t understand and won’t try to understand what you’re trying to say… I know I’m being a bastard but I just can’t make myself do it… But I’ll wait… I’ll still wait for you… As long as I know you’ll stay with me…”

Mao’s chin quivered. She knew she had told him she won’t ask to leave… But he should understand that there is nothing between them anymore… She’ll be here… As someone who cares about him… But she won’t be his anymore…

“Do you know that you’re just hurting yourself?” She asked, her voice turning shaky. “Won’t it be easier for you to just let me go-“

“You said you won’t ask that anymore.”

“I know… But think of yourself… Do you think I like seeing you like this…?”

“Then come back…” He attempted at humor. His smile was gone in an instant at the look on her face.

If she lets him…

She could…

That part of her heart is still there…

But it just doesn’t feel right anymore…

Her eyes went down to their hands. Her heart gave a twinge. She gave a small tug. And then another before Jun released his hold.

“No, I’ll just wait too… Wait for you to finally decide to stop doing this to yourself and let me go…”

“I think you know how stubborn we both are…”
What lies ahead of them is truly unclear… Maybe she’ll forever be going down this road with him… Maybe he’ll finally see the light… It’s best not to think too much about the future…

It’s best just to live right now… Just learn to live…

She gave a resigned smile and turned to go. Jun raked a hand through his hair. His brows knitted together when he saw her pause at the doorway. She turned back to him.

“I was thinking of making soup earlier. I thought we both would need it. Do you want some…?”

This is why he’s always going to be stubborn about them…

His eyes softened at her. “Sure.”

The side of her lips lifted a bit. “I’ll call you when it’s done.”

“I’ll go with you right now…”

She didn’t think to refuse and stepped out of the room. Jun stood there staring at the spot she left just a second ago. He gave a smile at himself and moved his feet.

**

Mao looked up from her desk when she heard the door sliding open. She gave a bright smile, slightly startling Pi who hadn’t expected such a greeting. But having Miss Mei and her husband out of harm’s way probably is the main reason. There’s nothing like a new lease in life.

“Ohno?” she offered, wondering why he wasn’t with them when they came to the orphanage.

No, it wasn’t him this time. But he was on the same level with Ohno when it came to making things hard for him.

Sho had ordered him to go in the station earlier. He knew what a risk that was but the dangerously silky tone from the other line left him with no other choice. He’d come up with a lame excuse that a ‘friend’ was in a jam and needed him to sort things out a bit. He won’t be gone for long. One of the guards had agreed to cover for him for a while. But if he’s blown, it all falls on him.

There was no warm welcome for him, of course. Instead he was met with the throbbing vein in Sho’s temple as he asked why he never revealed the fact that the investigation he had presented to him yesterday had quite a few developments. He told him if he busted in on them so conveniently, there will be suspicions on his end. The police hadn’t been able to link the Matsumoto clan with Wu Zun’s side and if they are suddenly involved with a source from an anonymous tip… The risks are too high for him. He left out the part where he didn’t want Miss Mei and her husband getting tangled up in the investigation. They had enough trouble as it is. And grudgingly, he knows Matsumoto will be able to intimidate Aaron Yan more than any police force.

Sho then reminded him pointedly that the least he could have done was to report to him if there had been movements or changes. He seems to forget he works under him. He had apologized for that slip but was curious how Sho was able to get information on any developments. The news he relayed was disturbing.

Word on the street is Wu Zun’s side was claiming that Aaron Yan and his men couldn’t be contacted. Rumors have started spreading that there’s a high possibility that Matsumoto had something to do with it. It was suddenly known that Matsumoto had stepped over the rules and had been involved in a deal that he had no business with. Shaking things up further with Wu Zun’s side. Things were beginning to spiral out overnight and it could only turn uglier.

Matsumoto probably is well-informed of the situation already. If she gets wind of the news that he’s in trouble all because of what happened… It was another connection he doesn’t think he could break…

“They said you wanted to see me as soon as I got here,” he chose not to answer her question. Not wanting to make up a lie. He wants to avoid it as much as possible, no matter how small. It’s starting to be a problem for him right now; this lying to her part… As well as this wanting to see her because he was in a slightly foul mood part. And all that sums up to a whole other problem.

“Right,” she grinned, picking up a piece of paper in front of her. His eyes then fell on the paper plane from last night on top of a pile of books. Somehow his spirits lifted considerably. He watched as she walked around the desk and went towards him. She held the sheet out to him, asking him to take a look.

“I thought you might want to keep it, seeing as you’re the subject,” she said, her eyes twinkling a bit. “I’ve been meaning to give this to you. Nana, one of the younger girls in the class, drew this up about our two day trip.”

A mild frown creased his brow. He took a look at the drawing and now understood the reason behind that twinkle in her eye. His lips quirked.

“Is this how she sees me?” He asked with a straight face.

“A superhero?”

“No, a man that wears technicolored tights, a cape, and… am I holding a scepter?”

“Jewel-encrusted with little cats, I think.”

“It’s neon pink.”

“It’s pimp, right?” She was trying hard not to laugh.

“If it wasn’t neon pink.” He noticed how she was biting her lip to keep herself from laughing. “And wow, my superhero identity sounds really cool.”

“Yama-man!”

“I’ll be finding it hard to have that trademarked.”

“You probably should include your tights. I bet everyone will be clamoring to wear those if word gets out.”

He gave a lopsided grin that lasted for about a nanosecond. And somehow Mao wished to see it for a whole lot longer. She bit her lip at that thought.

“You should thank Nana next time in class.” She smiled at him, and he liked the way her eyes crinkled. “She thinks you’re a superhero. That’s a long way from what my impression was.”

He looked amused at her words. “Yeah, I’ll do that.”

“And maybe I’ll ask her to lessen the heel of my boots like about three inches,” he then added and she couldn’t hold it in any longer and gave a laugh.

The door suddenly slid open and both of their heads turned towards the sound. Mao’s eyes rounded in surprise when Ohno stepped into the room. His face was grimmer than usual.

“O-Ohno?” Her heart started hammering. Why would Ohno suddenly show up here? Has something happened already? Is Jun…? “What is it?”

“I’m just here to take you home.”

“You came to take me home. I think you’ve already put people for that job.” She looked relieved but gave a suspicious frown.

Ohno’s eyes flicked momentarily to Pi.

“We’re just being extra careful. For now. Don’t worry,” he headed her off before she jumps to any conclusion, “You understand how it is. With the recent events… It’s nothing.”

The reassuring smile he gave didn’t seem to convince her entirely. She gave a wary look as he indicated that they should leave. He observed the way she looked up at Yamashita and gave a small smile before turning to go. He followed her out with Yamashita behind him, rolling up a sheet of paper in his hands.

He gave a quick glance back at him, having half a mind to call him out. For what though? For being too familiar with Mao? For making her laugh again? He had frozen when he heard her laughter through the door; thinking he was just imagining it. It’s been so long since he’s heard it. And it just made him realize how he missed it. How they would make each other laugh like that.

Who knew someone like him could change things?

His eyes were on Mao’s back. But he could feel a little resentment… Somehow understanding Jun now… Because he was wishing the reason behind her laughing again was one of them… Not someone who’s barely known her…

Was it wise to just let things be…? Maybe for now… With what’s bound to come ahead of them, it will be better if she gets to laugh a little more… He’d like to hear it again…

**

Jun’s eyes went to the clock reading midnight. The slight happiness he’d felt last night was now long gone. His time together with Mao in the kitchen came so naturally that it was like nothing was standing between them. He’d immersed himself in that feeling, trying to wave away any thoughts weighing him down. He and Mao spending time together was what he wanted right…? But somehow, Mao managing to keep her resolve when it came to interacting with him was scaring him a little. Can she truly do it? Completely forget everything that’s between them… Leave that all behind for this kind of relationship with him…

For her, they will never be what they were before…

Can that actually be…?

He’d managed to stow away the nagging fears but a more alarming problem had broken out, not even allowing him to dwell further on their small moment. Seems like all their suspicions are coming true and they’ve been hell-bent on trying to settle the rumors. They can handle it; their group still commands a strong influence, but it’s not going to be easy. Wu Zun had them where he wants them to be. More complications were bound to arise.

He had wanted to see Mao but everything was in uproar and he didn’t want her to know just yet. For sure she’ll be blaming herself for allowing things to end this way. She was already in her room when he’d come home. He didn’t stay long in his, knowing he might not be able to stop himself from knocking on hers with all that’s been happening, ending up in the study for almost the whole night.

The door suddenly swung open; it came as no surprise to him for some reason. As if he’s known it was coming. He braced himself when he took one look at Ohno’s face. He stopped in front of his desk, a muscle in his jaw ticking

“Aaron Yan’s been found,” Ohno started. “Dead.”

Jun’s eyes grew darker.

There is going to be hell.

Chapter 28: Paper Planes

Lun pulled his jacket tighter to him, his heart still pounding hard. He bowed his head a bit, unable to contain the excitement. People might think he’s crazy if he’s smiling by himself for no reason. His boots scuffed the ground. He turned a corner into their street, thankful that no one was there. The usual sounds coming from the neighbors’ house also absent.

The stillness of the surroundings, the noonday sun hitting him; gave him a sense of contentment. But he knew there was another reason. He shifted the bag onto his left hand and continued down the street, passing one of the unoccupied houses.

He heard a noise.

“What the-?”

Hands grabbed at him and roughly pulled him off the street and out of sight.

**

Mao leaned over the roof ledge and looked down. She watched it flutter weakly to the ground. Not to be discouraged, she took another piece of paper from the stack she had prepared and started folding again.

After the events yesterday, she had been feeling more than a little restless. A little confused. A little of everything; causing her to lose sleep more than usual. Yesterday… She didn’t even recognize herself. Playing around, light in her steps, laughing more than she ever had in the past year…

For a few glorious hours, not thinking of what her life really had come to…

And it’s all because of him…

The day hadn’t even ended yet and she knew she wanted to have that again…

He had helped her forget… Not entirely but he’d given her some peace of mind for a brief moment… He was the reason once more… And what he’s done for her will always remain with her… The day she saw him for the first time seemed so far away now. Everyday, with every little thing, she had felt herself getting more accustomed to him... She never would have thought it could happen… But her heart… She knows clearly now her heart has slowly let him in… And though she wasn’t sure about it yet, she knew it was growing more and more attached to him… Whatever effect he has on her, a part of her is still cautious, wary about it but… she couldn’t really ignore it altogether… Willing it to pull her in somehow…

A friend? Can she consider him as that? She didn’t know… Wasn’t sure… All his actions held no sincerity… Not much… But somehow, it has changed… When, she can’t really say… She’d once said she doesn’t feel safe around him. It may still hold true at some points but after everything he’s done, she finds herself thinking about trusting him now…

Trust him…

But questions were still on her mind. Why he does what he does for her… Why would he even care at all? Why go to all that trouble? Just so they’re even? Just because she won their bet?

Or is it because just like her he couldn’t stay away… For some inexplicable reason just finds himself drawn to her… Someone who isn’t whole… A mirror of himself… She’s seen glimpses of something real in him… She knows it…

She turned the paper plane in her hands. Sometimes when everything just feels a little too much, she’s learned that folding paper planes helps her to be at ease. At the least… Watching it soar away over walls, over rooftops, she could imagine her mind being set free… Imagine herself being set free… If only a paper plane could carry her away…

She let it go in her hand. And then watched; it hasn’t even gone far and it starts diving downwards… Her eyes followed it down. She was never really good at making paper planes… She reached for a new one and her hand paused for a second. She slowly slid it out and looked at it, her eyes saddening.

It was one of Jun’s old drawings from before. A small sad smile appeared on her lips. It was supposed to be a pineapple, but Jun was exasperated to exhaustion when she tried to make the kids guess what it was. They came up with loads of stuff from a potato. A porcupine. A coconut tree. To which Jun grudgingly asks whether they’ve ever seen a yellow porcupine. Or a yellow coconut tree.

Jun… She flashed back to the moment at the elevator. The guilt came out of nowhere… She knew what she was doing was just a way to let out some of the frustrations… But somehow, it felt like she was deceiving him… Cheating on him with someone else… The paper in her hand was almost crumpled. Cheating? There’s nothing between them anymore… How could that be…? She shouldn’t think that way… Her thoughts were getting more and more ridiculous…

She bit her lip. Thinking back to everything she’d done with Pi… It was nothing… But… did she think that way…? After seeing him pick out the olives… Thoughts of Jun had been popping out occasionally… And then almost running into Jun after… She knew when they were inside enjoying the chocolate fountains, there was no stopping the thoughts… Was a part of her hoping… Hoping like a fool… that he was Jun…? Was she just substituting him for Jun…?

No. That can’t be.

It can’t be.

She closed her eyes, feeling so trapped in her mind. But maybe that explains why she feels this sort of connection with him… That maybe she was just imagining it… Giving it more meaning than it has…

Her eyes snapped open, hearing footsteps behind. She turned around and saw him walking towards her. She stifled that feeling in her heart; That sudden burst of happiness. The lack of sleep could be taking its toll on her…

“They said you wanted to see me…?”

Pi gave a slight frown at her, looking a little flustered as she looked away, concentrating on the paper she was folding on the ledge.

“I didn’t know you will be coming in late… There’s something I wanted you to have but it’s in the classroom right now,” she said, keeping her eyes on the ledge.

“Ohno,” he explained in one word.

Pi still had his eyes on her back. She seemed like she was keen on avoiding looking at him, but maybe that was just him getting to know his overactive imagination again. He must have gotten it from that kid.

It had nothing to do with what happened. In the mall, in the elevator… He just wished he could stop thinking about yesterday. She probably had…

He was treated to an image of her looking at him with those eyes of hers in the elevator. He didn’t know what came over him but he just couldn’t ignore her in front of him anymore. The scent of her hair, the feel of her moving close to him… What was that…? He rolled his shoulders unconsciously. It shouldn’t be happening…

She was just something way out of his reach… He then remembered her laughing at herself when she got chocolate all over her chin… That time… He sensed she was distracted once in a while though… The sight of Matsumoto… He’d suggested they go back soon since it was a little risky to stay any further with him and his men in the same hotel. But she seemed to be trying too hard to show that everything was okay… Something that left him feeling slighted for some reason. Watching her pretend like that… Pretend she isn’t thinking of Matsumoto…

He didn’t like this hold he has on her… Not one bit…

“Must be something important then.” She tried to sound flippant; tried not to sound as if she was curious about what he did. As if she cared about what he did. As if she didn’t like the idea he was off elsewhere doing whatever he did. What is she doing? It seemed as if the paper in front of her wasn’t flat enough.

He pursed his lips. He just spent half the day tagging along on some credit collection standing by and doing nothing. He really didn’t see the point of him being there. Did they need someone to cheer them on? On the surface, it wouldn’t be considered as important. But as he thought about it, he came to a bigger revelation.

Ohno’s possible reason behind it.

His eyes darted to her back once more.

He had been playing on a hunch. They hadn’t let him near anything that would tie to any of their dealings; his job was to watch her. Why the suddenness then? Why now? Ohno confirmed his musings when he was trying to find a flimsy excuse to keep him on that particular assignment. The two collectors he was with had said they’ve got it covered and he’s better off doing something else than be an audience. He seemed to be thinking of another meaningless post for him when one of his men had reminded him in a low voice that Miss Mao was short of guards at the orphanage. And they still had to meet up with Matsumoto. Ohno seemed to have been in battle with himself before telling him to go back to his post. He had felt his watchful eyes on his back as he walked away. And it hadn’t been the first time.

He always knew the biggest threat to his plan is Ohno Satoshi. His perceptiveness isn’t something he needs to be dealing with. So he just shouldn’t attract attention. But his plan really doesn’t call for subtlety.

And it wasn’t long that Ohno’s taken notice. He’s had his guard up more than usual when it came to him. He could have seen something. Maybe he’d let something slip when he’s around her. The possibility was there knowing how he’s not been himself the past few days. Just one wrong move could be the end for him. And evidently, he’s been making a habit of making wrong moves.

Especially yesterday.

It could just be him but seems like after yesterday, Ohno’s gotten more determined than usual. Waging this sudden silent war against him. They had been late in showing up, but he knew the two guards wouldn’t let slip anything to anyone. Even though they didn’t seem to buy Mao’s excuse that she forced him to let her walk off the popcorn after the movie and just lost track of the time. Their necks were on the line as well. But people talk and he could have caught wind of something. Something that told him he should pay more attention.

He’s still standing. That’s good news.

But Ohno’s taking a second look now.

A closer second look.

And he didn’t know how long until he tries to dig further.

He doesn’t really understand why he doesn’t just take him off his bodyguard post. It’s the easier alternative. Better than this half-ass plan of making him go on ridiculous runs just so he won’t be at her side.

It wasn’t solving any problems really.

What could make a man known for making precise decisions fumble his way through this one then?

The only explanation he could think of was he didn’t want to alert Matsumoto to anything. Ohno being the loyal friend that he is wouldn’t risk burdening him. Not without cause. Anything to do with her affects him in ways he couldn’t bear to see. Maybe he feels he was just being oversensitive. Tension is high right now. There have been persistent rumors that Wu Zun with the help of Nagase has something in the works. They’ve been at it for some time now but no concrete news or information was coming up. They had to be on guard. So it’s also another reason he can’t take him off the post.

Or it could be he’s refusing to deal with what he could be seeing. Something he sees that will inadvertently affect things between Matsumoto and her.

Is that it?

If Ohno’s resorted to scheming to get him away from her side, there truly must be something there then?

She had taken a quick glance back at him, owing to his silence.

Or did he just want that to be the case …

“Is it time for your 4 o’clock silent treatment again?” His eyes went to her holding up a paper plane getting ready to throw it. “I should really put up a schedule as a reminder.”

His lips gave an involuntary quirk.

“What are you doing?” He said instead, genuinely curious. He didn’t want to think about Ohno and the risks involved. Not right now. He should distract himself for a while. And he found it was easy to be distracted by her. Too easy, in fact… He knows that doesn’t bode well. But he really isn’t complaining.

He had started to walk towards the ledge and settled on a spot well away from her. He looked down at the grounds; an excuse not to face her.

“Throwing a paper plane.” And then as an afterthought, “Duh.”

The shadow of a smile was lurking in his lips, his eyes sweeping the ground below already littered with a few. Mao decided it was a bit silly she took it to heart that he didn’t really say anything about his day. Even though she asked. Well, granted that it wasn’t really a direct question but people would normally be able to get that.

“You know what I mean.”

Mao averted her gaze casually when his face turned towards her.

“I’m… escaping.” She said with a grin.

Pi’s brows knitted together and inclined his head in question.

“It’s what I do. I treat it as a sort of escape for me when I feel… a little down…” She gave a shrug, feeling a little embarrassed somehow telling him about this. It was something only for her to know, really. But she couldn’t help it. She made the pretense of checking if the plane’s tip is pointy enough. “I can just imagine myself soaring out of here. Don’t you do that sometimes?”

Pi quickly wiped the expression off his face as she turned to him. An expression one could only see as rapt interest.

“Now, if only I can make it over that wall… then it’s a good day.”

With her tongue sticking out a bit, she aimed. It’s off. Only to make its way straight down.

They both watched it take a nosedive.

“But I still need to work on my paper plane making skills,” Mao said, patting her bangs self-consciously. “I’ll make it. Eventually…”

She turned somber for a while and then looked at him, putting on a brave smile. She reached for another paper and was surprised when he took it from her. She looked up at him. He’d covered their distance in three steps, looking at her with a sort of understanding in his eyes. Her mind flashed back inside the elevator yesterday. Remembering his warmth… Much like right now; feeling herself being pulled towards him…

Another memory then came back to her.

Something she’d seen.

She didn’t think much about it until now.

Her eyes slowly went to his throat. His shirt and tie hiding what she knew was there.

The scar between his collarbone.

Her hand started lifting up unconsciously. She wanted to see… To know… To understand… Wanted to take away the layers… A sudden movement from him broke the spell and she caught herself. He’d stepped back, turned to the ledge and was starting to fold the paper he took.

“I make a mean paper plane, you know…”

She looked at her hand that was about to do the unthinkable and immediately put it down. Watching his profile as he silently finished his plane. He held it up finally, aiming it towards the wall. He waited, felt the wind picking up and then let it go.

It soared beautifully.

And it looked like it was going to make it.

They watched in silence; Mao almost holding her breath.

It was going to make it.

It did.

“I guess with a little help, you can do it.”

Mao continued to stare at the wall. She didn’t think she’d ever get to see one ever go past it. She didn’t think he’d be the one to make her see… A gust of wind woke her up from her trance.

“Why do you do that?” She asked. It was almost a whisper.

Pi’s eyes snapped to her. She slowly lifted her gaze to him. A plea to make her understand buried deep within her voice.

“What?”

“Everything.” She didn’t know if she was making any sense, but seems like he knows just what she is talking about. “Why do you make it possible again? Possible for me to-“

She stopped herself before she could go any further. He was standing there, every bit of him tensed up. Belatedly realizing the pain he was feeling in his chest was from his heart beating fast. He watched as she raked a hand through her hair, looking slightly defeated. Trying to make sense of it all.

He didn’t have an answer for her.

God knows he wanted to know as well.

But the only thing he could clearly see right now is her standing just a short step away from him. And if he reached over…

If he reached over…

His shoulders moved just slightly. As if it served as a reminder. She bit her lip.

“Can I trust you?”

It was hard for him to swallow. To think.

“What do you want…? When it comes to you, everything feels like some sort of game. Though I can’t help but feel that there’s something more to it and-“

“What do you want to hear?”

Mao looked at him. At the familiar smirk on his lips.

“You’ve come up with your own conclusion to this. So what do you want to hear?”

What did she want to hear? Mao kept silent. Realizing she had made a mistake. She should have just left it alone. Running away with her emotions once more. She should know better… She should…

Pi looked towards the grounds again. “It’s probably not this but let’s face it. We’re just using each other.”

And he was willing himself to believe that. Better this than…

He turned back to her. A confused frown was aimed at him.

“Why are you still being so naïve about all of this?” His frustration was slightly showing. He reeled it in. “You want to forget, right? To escape even for a while? Isn’t that what you are always craving for? I’m bringing something different into your life. You’re just using me to be able to have that. If you think you will find a more profound reason other than that then you really haven’t learned anything.”

She looked at him, as if seeing him for the very first time. Her frown deepened as she let his words sink in.

“Then what are you using me for?”

Pi looked away from the quiet understanding in her eyes and smirked again. “You’re not the only one who wants to forget.”

“Don’t.” He suddenly said, his eyes were back on her.

“Don’t what?”

“Don’t even care about what it is,” he replied, stiffly. She looked away, willing herself to stop thinking about his scar.

“Just like I don’t care if you trust me or not.” His voice slipped slightly at the words. “As long as I get something from all of this. It’s just how the world works. As soon as you understand that the better it is for you. So why don’t you leave it at that? It’s that simple. Nothing more.”

He couldn’t quite read the expression on her face. He dragged his gaze away from her and was about to offer her another flippant advice when she spoke.

“Using each other, huh?” She said in an almost amused voice. “Glad to know that. It’s made everything much clearer…”

“But that’s not always the way the world works.” Her eyes were bright and steady. “At least I’m trying to believe that.”

“I know perfectly well the world is ugly. Oftentimes even brutal. I’ve tried to shut myself from it. From everything around me. Much like what you’re so determined on doing. And it’s not a place I want to be in anymore. Living like that, it’s meaningless. So I don’t think I’ll be taking your advice. But I will hold on to it just in our case.”

He looked speechless for a moment.

“At least I got through somehow.”

She offered a small smile. “Just know though, you can’t stop me from wanting to know about what it is that made you like this.”

His brow furrowed.

“You may think it’s idiotic, stupid or just plain ridiculous, of which I share the same sentiment because your attitude is just aggravating, but whatever it is you’re trying to forget… It’s not something that I can just dismiss because I know what it feels like… I’m not going to try and find out but you can’t stop me from at least ca- worrying.”

“But don’t sweat; I won’t forget the part where we’re just using each other.”

She will never again think any different. At least he’s made that clear… She can’t make this mistake again… The emotions she actually placed on this, trying to find some meaning to it… She was that broken… That vulnerable… At least now she has someone to remind her just how she could get. This should be the part where she’s using him. He would be proud.

“You just don’t get it.”

She gave a slight shrug. Their gazes locked and something seemed to be pressing against his throat. He, for a moment, seemed to forget about everything he’s reminded her just now. He tried to look away. He really did try. A banging sound then suddenly resounded. In a flash, he was in front of her, his gun almost out when a voice called out.

“Mao!”

Mei was coming towards them and it looked like something is very wrong.

“Jie, what’s happened?” Mao immediately ran to her, noting her pallid face. She took hold of her arms and asked once more. Pi stopped at her side, on alert.

Mei looked like she was pulling on all her strength. She was trembling slightly, carrying to her voice. “It’s Lun…”

“Lun Ge? Why? Where is he?” She watched as her jie take a deep calming breath but it doesn’t seem to be doing any good.

The first thing Mei had heard was Lun’s voice in pain in the background and she almost dropped her phone. Aaron Yan had introduced himself, irritatingly polite as she heard a sickening crunch in the background. He didn’t hesitate in telling her that her husband was suffering a major beating right now. She had heard another of Lun’s pained grunts. She calmly demanded him to stop it, wiping away a tear and asked what he wanted.

Her worst fears were confirmed when Aaron Yan’s identity came to light. He was right-hand man to Wu Zun. She had vaguely come across the name once before but she didn’t need his full history to know Lun has been in contact with the wrong men. Aaron Yan had related Lun’s current situation animatedly to her.

Five million yen. That was the amount Lun had approached them to borrow. He had gotten the money this morning. But was robbed on his way home. He’d claimed to recognize one of the goons when he ripped his ski mask off. That it was one of Aaron Yan’s men. He was setting him up right from the beginning. A ploy to push him to desperation. He wasn’t thinking straight and had rushed to confront them. Telling them that all deals were off. They got their money back; they’ve got nothing on him anymore.

But it wouldn’t be that easy. He’s not weaseling out on their deal, having the guts to come up with some fucked up excuse.

“He said that they’ll be keeping Lun till I come up with the money.” Mei closed her eyes tight, the tears she was trying to hold in rolling down.

“Jie…”

“Mao… I could hear him… What they were doing to him… I can’t…” She gripped Mao’s arm, the tears flowing non-stop. She wanted to forget… Wanted to forget his screams…

“Don’t worry, Jie...” Her voice trying to offer comfort but her body seemed to have gone numb. Lun Ge. She can’t let anything happen to him. She met Pi’s gaze but it’s as if she doesn’t really see him.

“I need Jun… I need to call him…”

Pi watched silently as she led Mei towards the stairs. He stood there, seeming unable to move. He frowned in puzzlement at what was going on inside him. What she said… He gave a disbelieving scoff. He can’t actually be affected by it.

She needed Matsumoto. It’s just natural. With the way things are the only person that actually has the power to fix it is him.

It was just the way she said it… Like it was something that just can’t be denied… She needs him… Really needs him. Not just because of this situation… It was just the way it is… This was the first time he’s really seen it for himself and actually made him believe that just maybe; nothing could ever come between that…

Will she always need him…?

As long as she is in this world, he knew that whatever happens, Matsumoto will always come first in her mind. No matter what he can show her… No matter how much he can give her… there was no one else she sees in front of her…

His jaw tightened uncomfortably as he remembered the way her eyes slipped past him. He reached up and started loosening his tie. His hand stopped and looked down at it. What was she about to do then? Her gaze had been locked on his throat. He had remained motionless, almost unable to breathe, as if mesmerized as he felt rather than saw her hand slowly moving up… His mind had gone blank... Her power over him… The soft look in her eyes…

A new fire suddenly burned in him. He took out his phone, scrolled for a number and waited for someone to pickup.

“Hello?”

“It’s me. I have word that something’s going on with Aaron Yan and his men. What do you know about it?”

“Aaron Yan?” Yoko echoed; a frown in his voice. “I haven’t heard anything. That’s Wu Zun’s side. I have very limited sources, most especially now. They’re keeping things too under wraps. Why the sudden interest? Is he relevant?”

He was making it up as he goes. “Yan’s tied to Wu Zun and Nagase. If there’s movement on his front, there’s most probably a connection to Matsumoto. Can you look into it? Find out where he is right now.”

He can’t let him know he’s got a lot more details. That will give away that he obtained his information firsthand. Meaning he’s got to be someone working from the inside. It would be better if anything concerning him is vague to Yoko.

Though the assumption seemed thin, the indirect parties getting involved seemed like too much of a coincidence. This incident was coming out like it was designed to pull Matsumoto into the mix. And it was a sensitive issue. He can’t just push his authority in Wu Zun’s side. It was their deal and he has no right for involvement. If he chose to do something about it, that’s where it gets tricky.

“I’ll give it a shot.” Though he didn’t sound too optimistic. “By the way, I still can’t get anything on Ohno Satoshi. Compared to Aiba, it’s going to be a lot harder to drive a wedge between him and Matsumoto.”

He knows all too well. “We’ll be able to come up with something. Just get me Aaron Yan.”

He pocketed his phone, his thoughts really all over the place right now. Calling Yoko was more of an impulse. What was he going to do if he was able to get the information for him? He then decided Sho would be the right guy for this. He’s the one who needs to make this bust thereby eliminating Matsumoto’s probable involvement. Well then, Sho right now needs to start investigating into it too. He reached for his phone once more.

Was he really thinking this through? Matsumoto making an appearance in Wu Zun’s deal was the surefire way to disaster. He should be using that bad blood to his own advantage. But preventing her from reaffirming that Matsumoto’s the one she can only turn to proved to be the more effective approach. At least that’s what he’s telling himself.

He had his phone in his hand.

“What are you doing?” He expelled a frustrated breath.

He was having trouble shaking off the look in her eyes as she thought of Matsumoto.

“Fuck.”

He dialed the number.

**

“I wasn’t expecting this at all.”

Aaron Yan looked Mei up and down as she stood there with a large duffel bag in her hand. She was trying her hardest to keep it together while being surrounded by the scums that had her husband, who could very well hurt her too.

She threw the bag at his feet as he continued to gaze at her with interest. Her skin crawled and she longed to slap him across the face.

“Where is he?” She didn’t want to stay in this place another minute.

One of the men had snatched up the bag and they took it behind to check the money. A hint of a smile was playing in Yan’s lips as Mei gave him a sharp glare and looked away. He suddenly took a step forward and Mei jumped back.

“Relax. I’m not going to hurt you. The money’s all there, isn’t it?” Yan smiled. He glanced to the back, the smile gone. “Isn’t it?”

“Five million, Ge.”

“Where is he?” She asked once again, her voice shaking slightly. They had a deal.

Yan gave a signal. The door to the left opened and Mei’s hand went to her mouth. The tears springing in her eyes. They shoved a bloodied Lun into the room and he crumpled to the ground. His face had been badly beaten, his left eye swollen and his wincing indicated broken ribs. Mei called to him, starting towards him but was suddenly pulled back. She tried pulling away, demanding he let go of her. Yan answered with a smile that sent a chill through her.

“Five million isn’t going to cut it. You think he can just walk away after trying to fuck with us? Another five million before you can get him back.”

Mei pushed him away and he let go of her. Her eyes flashed, the tears glistening. “Five million was all we agreed on!”

“Well, I changed my mind,” he said coldly. “I thought we’d get to play with him for at least a few more days but you got the money quite fast. Another five million won’t be hard, right?”

“Bastard,” Mei said through gritted teeth.

“You shouldn’t have come, Mei…” Lun suddenly said in a broken voice. “Just go-“

“Stop it!” Mei screamed, the tears coming down, when one of the men kicked him in the stomach to shut him up.

“Ah, love,” Yan pretended to be all smitten. “This means you do want him back, right?”

“You’re not getting another cent.”

Mei marched towards Lun. Before she could get to him, Yan signaled for the men to get a hold of her. She kicked and scratched as she screamed for them to let her go. Lun had tried to stop one of them by holding on to their leg. Another shout of pain came from him. Mei bit the hand that tried to cover her mouth.

“Enough!” Yan shouted.

The scuffle immediately stopped. Mei glared at him with her tear-stricken face as she struggled against her captor’s hold. She couldn’t move her arms. Yan slowly stepped towards her. His hand reached out and caught her chin.

“Why don’t you just agree to give another five million so we can just get along?”

Mei pulled away, marking her defiance when she remained silent.

“Maybe this can convince you.” Yan purposefully stepped towards Lun, who lay on the ground. His breathing ragged. Yan’s boot stopped beside his hand placed on the ground. “I hear your husband’s a great musician. Out of luck maybe but he knows his music, right?”

Mei watched Yan, the fear gripping her. She struggled once more. Pleading broke out in her voice. “What more do you want? You have the money. Just please let us go!”

“I can’t do that.” He placed his boot on Lun’s hand, putting a little pressure. He was held down when he tried to move. He watched as Mei struggled to get out, wanting to fly to her husband’s side.

“Although… on second thought…” He moved away from Lun, his eyes on her. The slight relief washed over her for a moment, but she tensed up as soon as he spoke again. “There is another way to settle this.”
Yan then looked down at Lun, making sure he sees his face. “One night with your wife and we forget about all of this. You can even have the five million back.”

Mei made a disgusted noise. Lun had stilled for a moment before he lunged for Yan, crying out in pain. His broken ribs were hindering him from making the attack. Yan stepped back easily as Lun swore at him. Another kick was aimed at his ribs. Yan moved towards him again. His boot on his hand once more.

“I’m doing you a favor here.” He then turned his head back to Mei. “So what do you say?”

“I think you’ve had enough fun.”

Yan whirled around as Jun came into the room. Guns were pretty much in everyone’s faces in seconds. Jun seemed not to notice as he calmly stopped a few paces away from Yan.

“Matsumoto,” Yan said in feigned awe. “What a surprise. I knew there was something fishy about where she got the five mill.”

“Spare us the circus act. It’s pretty clear who your real target is. Let them go.”

“I don’t think so. You’ve got no business here. I could blow your brains out and there would be no consequences. But something else is keeping me entertained right now. So why don’t you just get the fuck out of my property?”

“Not without them.” Ohno then appeared beside Jun and threw a couple of duffel bags on the ground. “Here’s another ten million. I walk away with them.”

“Ten million?” Yan said, smirking. He looked down at Lun. “But this is so much fun.”

Mei pleaded for him to stop as his boot grinded into Lun’s hand. Lun struggled once more, screaming, as tears streamed down his face from the pain.

Jun seemed unfazed. A man was suddenly shoved into the ground face first. Yan’s eyes snapped to him. “If you don’t want the scheme you pulled be exposed, I suggest you think twice about doing that again.”

Yan’s jaw clenched. He put more pressure on Lun’s hand. Mei whimpered as she watched helplessly.

“What the hell are you talking about?” His voice was calm and he was not taking off the pressure on Lun’s hand.

“I’m not known for my patience. Just know I’ll be able to blow your brains out without consequences. And believe me, I’m hoping you would let me.”

Yan stomped his boot hard one last time on Lun’s hand. Jun’s eyes flashed. Ohno aimed his gun at Yan’s head for that move. His men didn’t know where to aim their guns at this point. He held up his hands, a smirk on his lips. Mei was released; she ran to Lun and kneeled at his side, cradling his head. Covering her mouth as she sobbed.

Jun’s men had moved forward, alert, just in case someone decided they wanted to cause some damage. Ohno’s gun was still on his target. Jun watched as his men supported Lun off the floor. Some of them offered help to Mei as well but she refused telling them that her husband needed it more than she does. They slowly filed out of the room.

“You’ll be hearing from us,” Yan then said when Jun started to move. A dark secret behind his smirk.

Jun didn’t bother with an answer and walked away as Ohno and the rest of his men followed.

**

Mao’s eyes followed Jun as he silently stepped into the classroom and settled onto a seat in front of her table. He closed his tired eyes and rubbed the bridge of his nose with an inaudible sigh.

“How are you?”

His fingers stilled and he looked to her. The concern in her eyes somehow lifting his spirits a little. They haven’t spoken to nor seen each other ever since the night at the wine bar. The night when his impulses and the overwhelming need for her got the better of him. He had stepped out of line, he knew that and he wouldn’t blame her if she can’t really look at him right now. But suddenly being thrust into this situation… There was an unspoken understanding and it had somehow softened things a bit between them… But they were far from resolved…

But now wasn’t the time for that…

His head snapped up at her next words.

“I’m sorry…” Her fingers twisted together. Her eyes saddening. “I know asking you to do this… The implications with Wu Zun… I just – It won’t happen again… This is the last ti-“

“Mao…” His voice seemed to be cracking under all the stress. “Don’t ever think that you can’t ever come to me when you need me. You know that…”

Mao lowered her gaze. She had rushed to Red after finding out he was holding a meeting there. It wasn’t after his meeting that he’d heard of the problem; Ohno having answered his phone for him while he was inside. She had been waiting for him at the bar and she looked fretful, almost unsure if she was doing the right thing. She had then nervously relayed to him what happened to Lun and Mei and had asked earnestly over and over again that he help them. There was no one else… She knew there were risks involved but…

She didn’t have to beat herself up asking him. It was for the two people she cared most about. And he won’t stand aside and do nothing. He will do everything in his power. It had always been that way… It will always be that way…

“But the consequences your involvement might cause…,” she said softly, her eyes meeting his once again. Ohno himself pointed this out, trying to somehow dissuade him. Maybe they should have listened…

He slowly stood up. Her eyes following him. He had wanted to go over to her. Pull her into his arms and tell her not to worry. It had taken everything in him not to do that. But he had to endure it… She didn’t need another onslaught of emotions to face.

“The important thing is they are safe. Don’t think about it anymore…” He gave a small smile. “We should go. I know how much you want to see them.”

“Thank you…” He had heard it from her countless times tonight. He watched as another layer of concern appeared in her eyes. Her gaze took in his haggard features. She wasn’t the only one who has been losing sleep… “But Jun, you need to go home and rest. Please. I’ll be okay on my own.”

“It’s nothing-“

“Jun…”

His head had been throbbing for a while now. But going home to a house without her didn’t seem like it can help in any way. But she had stepped out from behind her table and was firmly asking him to take care of himself. He looked like his body is about to give out. He needs sleep.

“I’ll wait up for you,” he sort of conceded.

“That’s not-“

“I’ll wait up for you.”

It looked like there was nothing she could really say or do. He waited for her answer. She gave a reluctant nod.

“Okay.”

**

Pi stopped just outside her door. He leaned against the wall beside the door frame, his thoughts on everything that’s happened.

Mei and Lun were now safe. He’d been standing outside her classroom door when she received the news from Matsumoto. She had exclaimed out of joy, her voice shaking with relief from the agonizing wait. She had thanked him tenderly. Over and over again. She wanted to see them and asked which hospital they were sent to. It seemed like he had offered to come by the orphanage and take her to them She didn’t try to stop him and told him she’d be waiting.

A weight has been lifted off him. Knowing Mei and her husband were now free also brought him huge relief. Mei had always treated him more and more like a friend ever since he saved Mao. So he’d also been waiting for news.

But with his relief comes a certain defeat that still Matsumoto was the one who’d stepped up. He should have known that whatever Mao asks of him, he won’t even hesitate. Putting his men right to work; wanting results in mere hours. They were lucky Aaron Yan and his men weren’t that keen on covering their tracks. Though it was unsettling just how everything fell into place…

He pushed off the wall and carefully peeked in. She was standing by the windows, looking out thoughtfully. He saw her take a deep calming breath but her face betrayed the weight in her heart.

“What are you doing?”

He wasn’t usually this jumpy but he had been really caught this time. He closed his eyes anticipating being impaled by an accusing stare and turned around. The kid was frowning up at him. His suspicious nature springing up again. He took a look inside the classroom and immediately pulled back.

“Oh my God. You are seriously asking for a beating.”

He seems to forget he was just a kid.

“Lower your voice down.” He said, exasperated. “Aren’t you supposed to be in your room already sleeping and not inflicting your presence upon me?”

“I saw Sensei’s classroom light was still on-“

“Stalker.”

“Oh, you’re one to talk.” He gave a glare. “You’ve been standing here watching her inside. Major creepy! And I think she needs to kno-“

Pi clamped a hand over his mouth. He pulled him further away from the door frame. The kid was struggling and for the first time he told him the truth.

“I’m worried, okay?”

Yuki stopped to fight him. He looked quite off guard to actually hear him finally admit to something he’s been hinting at him all along. He aimed a questioning frown up at him. Pi slowly took his hand away.

“Something’s happened and your Sensei… Well, she has a lot on her mind right now.”

“What happened?” Yuki’s protectiveness of his Sensei coming out. “Why don’t you go in and talk to her instead of lurking by the doorway?”

It took a while for him to think to answer when Yuki came up with his own.

“I change my mind. I don’t want to hear about your perverseness.”

Pi narrowed his eyes dangerously. Yuki took no notice and made to start forward. Pi stopped him. What was he up to?

“I’m just going to see, okay? Unlike you, I’m really worried.”

Pi didn’t like what he was hinting at but he let him go. He came back after peeking in, looking quite concerned as well.

“Shouldn’t we do something about it?”

Pi remained silent. Not willing to admit to himself that maybe, just maybe, he really didn’t have the power to change anything for her… He didn’t have the power to make her forget… He stared absently at the new drawings that covered the opposite wall. Something caught his eye and a small hopeful smile lined his lips.

**

Mao was startled to hear the light thwack that sounded when something landed on the window ledge. She frowned at the paper plane, a look of amused disbelief then flitted across her face. She turned towards the door expectantly, waiting for Pi to appear with his usual look of intentional indifference.

“Sensei!”

The way her heart dropped like that caught her by surprise. Realizing that she had been wanting to see him, feeling like his presence would be a welcome change. She needed to anchor her emotions down before she goes to see her jie and Lun Ge. But he hadn’t appeared before her ever since Jun had taken her jie to see Aaron Yan after making sure things will be going as planned. His absence has just dawned on her; everything had been a blur, having too much on her mind. Though Yuki being here was better. Much better, she tells herself.

“Yuki? Why aren’t you in bed?” She asked as she picked up the paper plane. She then started towards him.

“Sensei, why are you still here? Is everything okay…?”

“Yes, everything’s fine now. Don’t worry about it.” She crouched down in front of him as she ruffled his hair. She then gave a smile. Her hands turned over the paper plane carefully. “What’s this about?”

“Oh, that.” In his mind, he rehearsed the explanation Pi had come up with, decided it was just not going to work, and didn’t even bother. “It’s your bodyguard, Yamashita. He said you’d feel better after seeing that. I thought he’s messing with my head, given that he tried not to take credit for this idea. But, it seemed to work…, didn’t it?”

Yuki peered at his Sensei’s face and noticed a slight change. Small yet significant. Which made him realize he hadn’t been keeping a close enough watch on the bodyguard.

“Sensei, are you telling him secrets that I instead should know?” He sounded indignant. He had made a lot of progress it would seem. Maybe he should get him fired. But then again, he did make his Sensei’s mood lighten a bit… But maybe that could be because of his presence right now as well. Yeah.

“Sensei, should I be worried?” He then asked when she merely gave a light chuckle.

Something flashed across her eyes before she gave another smile.

“No, Yuki. There’s absolutely nothing to be worried about. You’re still my favorite. And thank you for this…” She gave his cheek a loving pinch and got up. “Now, I’m going to take you back to your room. It’s already late. Come on.”

She turned her head left and right, as if still expecting to see him in the halls. She smiled down at Yuki to cover that. Pi heard them and peeked out from the opposite end, following their backs as they talked animatedly; his eyes falling on the paper plane she held tightly in her right hand.

**

“Everything went according to plan?”

Zun watched as Yan poured himself another glass of sake and gave a nod. “Yeah, but I don’t think Matsumoto’s buying it. Come on, Da Ge. Even I’m not buying it. What’s the point to this plan of yours? It’s not as if you can do any drastic retaliation just because he interfered in some minor deal. Some minor rigged deal, I may add.”

“Granted I had a bit of fun putting things into play though I never really thought the musician would be the key to making this work,” he continued, downing the sake. The rest of his men behind them were also enjoying a few bottles Zun had brought.

“Anything to do with Inoue Mao can be used to get to Matsumoto,” Zun offered, picking up his glass.

“It’s always a woman, huh?” He mused, his glass hovering inches from his lips as he thought of something. “A guy’s downfall. Even the musician did it all for his wife… Speaking of his wife, I would have liked to have fun with her for a while longer. Too bad Matsumoto was able to quickly sniff out the intentional tracks we left.”

He gave a laugh as Zun observed him over the rim of his glass.

“Yeah, I did hear you changed the stacks. Am I sensing a little crush here?” Zun gave a mild smile.

“Nah. Just reminded me of someone back home.” Yan sheepishly ruffled his own hair. And it’s been a while… “You know how deep an impression some women can leave.”

Yan picked up his glass as if to toast. Zun’s hand paused for a while, ignored Yan’s gesture and tossed down his drink.

Yan realized he’d hit a nerve. The sake must be having its effect on him. He immediately jumped to a new topic.

“I bet Nagase will be ecstatic, if we ever find a way around this. He really can’t stand Matsumoto. But you gotta admit, the man has his charm.” Yan gave a mirthless smirk. “I gather you do have a plan seeing as you’re not too worried.”

“You could say that.”

He seemed able to breathe when Zun seemed to let that go. He poured more sake. “Matsumoto for Nagase. Kaneshiro for you. You really think you can get to him through Matsumoto? Through this? I think I’m still missing something here.”

Zun slowly stood up and checked his watch. “That’s because I haven’t told you the whole plan yet.”

“What is it then? How are you going to pull this off?” Yan looked up at him and saw something flash in his eyes. What was that? Guilt? Shame? But then he was the Da Ge he knew again.

“I can’t really stand aside and not exact revenge on Matsumoto when I find out he’s killed my right hand man, can I?”

“Wha-“ His eyes widened; understanding dawning on him as he looked into Zun’s gun. His head snapped back as the bullet entered between his eyes. The rest of his men were gunned down in a hail of bullets.

The gunshots and cries stopped.

Zun lowered his gun, his face void of any emotion as he watched Yan’s blood trickle down to the floor.