Welcome to Tokyo, Japan. January, 1991. The world has entered the technology era, portable phones, home computers, internet, video games. Japan quickly became the epicenter of the latest and greatest. Companies and factories flourished. Where money was, people followed. And while many rose to live a comfortable, happy, and delightful life from this new found money... Others did not. You see, money has this effect on people that can't be outdone. People will do anything for it. And when it starts slipping into the wrong hands, it's impossible to stop. Benethe the day time laborers and the double-shift workers, a seedy underbelly of syndicates exists. Narctics, black market, organized crime, money laundering, you name it and it's been growing as fast as the upper world economy. While many do it just to stay alive, there's those who make it their posh lifestyle. Either way, there's only one question. What would you do if the money was good enough?
JAN 29 2021: Welcome!! ƎLEMENT has been open for two weeks now and we're so happy to see such a bright beginning! If you're new feel free to drop into the discord and say hi before joining.
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
The little raven wondered, his heart skipping a beat at the mere thought. Though honestly, he wasn't sure why he cared so much, why it struck such a cord, and why he'd gotten so excited when Koto called him up earlier. Some part of him had just simply assumed that it was a one time thing, that Koto had no intentions of seeing him again and that in some twisted way they'd been toying with one another. A mutual need for affection bathed in alcohol and lowered inhibitions; but with a single phone call those assumptions were dashed, washed down like a fancy drink at a party neither of them wanted to be at.
As he arrived at the spot the lovely red-head had chosen for them, he couldn't remember the last time he'd had Greek food...or been so anxious over someone whose opinion he honestly shouldn't give a shit about. Koto was a toy, something to play with and then either destroy or cast aside once he'd outlived his usefulness; nothing more...right? Gods, he didn't know anymore.
This wasn't new territory for the little spider, luring someone in, selling a fantasy, and then dragging them through hell. These waters though...they felt so...so different. Change was in the winds and it smelled of mandarin and cardamom, lovely; yet frightening.
He walked towards a charming stone bench in front of the restaurant, plain white and decorated with the classic cobalt blue that Greece was so well known for. There, he opted to plop down and wait, considering he'd arrived a little bit early, just in time perhaps to calm his nerves...or make them ten times worse.
Why do I feel this way? I've done this a million times...this guy is no different. He'll be normal or a monster like the rest. I need to calm down.
At least that's what he told himself, brushing a few stray raven locks behind his ear. Even for a casual meet-up, he'd done himself up pretty, justifying it by claiming he was simply selling Koto what he wanted to see; even if it was just a watered-down version of what he'd witnessed at the party.
A thin, tight-fitting turtleneck with no sleeves, a blazer, something just a step down from slacks and leather boots; all tinged in black of course with just a touch of silver jewelry about his neck and hands. Silky raven hair pulled back at the sides, something he usually did, and just a touch of cosmetics; just enough to make it look like he wasn't feeling the after-effects of those strong drinks from the other evening. His alcohol tolerance was...nothing to write home about, something he wanted to work on, yet didn't genuinely care enough to change.
Even without the heavy makeup, the dress, the corset, and heels, he didn't look too far off from the visage he'd donned at the party; he hoped Koto shared the sentiment.
Wait what?
What on earth was he thinking? If he'd had more time, he would've scolded himself, why did he suddenly care? Koto wasn't anything more to him than a toy, something pretty to fool around with and crack open to determine who he truly was. With everyone else that came before, he couldn't recall giving a shit about-
At random, those baby blue eyes glanced up, transfixed on a figure in the distance walking towards him. He'd know that hair anywhere, a pale red like he'd merely been kissed by the sun...it brought a saccharine sweet smile to his face. Those memories from the balcony and that adorable phone call came flooding back, getting into his head again There he was...Masakoto, timing impeccable as usual.
The little raven stood then, hair blowing in the wind as the sun began to set in the sky, carrying the scent of the restaurant's fineries and of dusk on it. He took a few tentative paces forwards, slipped that mask filled with sweetness and shy glances on; tried to get his head into the game. He was a wolf, he'd die before becoming a sheep again.
"H-hey...thanks for inviting me out, Koto...it's good to see you again..."
This is a date. This is really a date. Calm down. [break][break] The sentiment was easier thought than done, Koto's nerves on overload as he walked through the familiar curving pathways of campus. It was early evening, hardly any students strolling the quad, Koto mercifully alone with his thoughts as he headed to that familiar little establishment. The fact that he'd had enough resolve and confidence to actually call Eden up and ask him out that evening was... astonishing. To say he'd spent the following hours before leaving his apartment rushing about and fretting over every last bit of preparation would be a gross understatement. [break][break] Thank god I don't have roommates anymore... he silently lamented, recalling with perfect clarity the number of clothing articles he'd slipped on and then tossed haphazardly across his room before settling on the maroon sweater currently tucked into a pair of light-washed, cuffed jeans. Far more casual than the suit he'd worn the night prior, but certainly still at the peak of elitist fashion, that sweater alone costing more than most people paid for rent in Tokyo, the jeans perfectly fitted to his form. [break][break] On top of the nervousness of simply going on a date with someone that wasn't just a socialite heiress to wear on his arm and please his parents, there was that ever-lingering worry that perhaps he was being played, the fear that he was just another paycheck for the little vixen. As much as he tried to stifle those thoughts, reminding himself of that tear-filled sentiment of the previous evening, he couldn't fully shake the sensation. Just have to be careful, he settled on, running a frustrated hand through his hair, grimacing as he realized he was tousling it after just spending thirty minutes in his bathroom trying to get it perfectly positioned. Great... [break][break] The fretting and changing and nervousness balling in his stomach was worth it, though, when Koto finally caught sight of his companion sitting on that bench. He got a quick flashback to that figure lounging across the couch the night prior, a fresh flush already finding its way to the ginger's cheeks as Eden stood and took a few steps his way. Gods, how the hell does he still look that pretty dressed like this? his mind lamented, his nerves cracked up to full force as he approached, anxious smile flitting across his features in greeting. [break][break] "H-Hey... thanks for inviting me out, Koto... it's good to see you again..." [break][break] Fuck, he'd already forgotten how nice his name sounded lilting off of those soft lips. How the hell was he supposed to concentrate through an entire dinner if Eden was going to keep that up? [break][break] "Y-Yeah, you too," he murmured, flushing a pretty scarlet as he let his hands slip into the pockets of his jeans, trying to act as casual as possible while looking the most nervous. "I uh... hope you weren't waiting long. Would've hurried if I'd known you'd get here early." [break][break] He pursed his lips, feeling far more tense than he would have liked, reminding himself that this was a date, not some stiff business meeting. He took a brief, deep breath, shoulders visibly relaxing ever so slightly, and pulled a hand back out to gesture towards the restaurant entrance. [break][break] "Ready? It's uh... usually not too busy this time of day with all the students heading back to their dorms, so we should have a bit of privacy." He flushed a tad darker, remembering just how they'd spent their last bit of private time together, silently reprimanding his mind for focusing so heavily on all that. He distracted himself by tentatively reaching forward and placing a hand at the small of Eden's waist, like he'd done before, beginning to guide him towards the entrance. "We can uh... get a balcony seat. They're my favorite; really beautiful views."
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
Though he had no way of knowing the other's internal dialogue, Masakoto's hunch that something was just slightly...off; wasn't without reason. His decision to be careful was a wise one, the devil himself was said to be beautiful and sweet on the eyes...not so far off from the spider with the face of an angel. Weaving a web of promises, falsehoods, and feigned affection for the unsuspecting fly...or was it genuine? The truth of the matter was: Eden wasn't sure anymore either, though he'd die before he'd admit this.
He looks so nice out of a suit...I'll have to tell him that.
A flicker of admiration in his eyes as Koto approached him, returning the sentiment of being happy to see him. There it was again...that delightful little blush. It brought Eden such joy that he wanted to let his mask of shyness fall off and really give the ginger something to turn pink over...oh the things he could do and say to this poor man.
"O-Oh no I wasn't...I like to get places early...just in case,"
He started, offering a sweet smile and a soft look as he watched the other try to relax...so he was nervous too; something about that made Eden's self doubt a million times worse, though you'd be hard-pressed to see any evidence of that.
"I've never been here before so...seemed like a good idea to leave sooner so I'd have time to get lost."
The little raven admitted with a quiet flush, those gentle blue eyes following Masakoto's hand towards the entrance of the restaurant. It'd been a while since he'd had Greek food, some part of him relieved to know that it wasn't that far from his new home. He drew in a bit of air to his nose, humming at the scent emitting from the place; not eating all day was about to be worth it.
"That sounds wonderful...it smells so good, the balcony seat while the sun sets...? This was a good choice, Koto..."
His voice came out as soft and pretty as ever, his Japanese near perfect, yet off just enough to give him away as a foreigner...as though the name 'Eden Rosair' wasn't a big enough hint; though he had no intention of bringing that up, nor the fact that he was relatively new to Japan still.
He eased into that hand at his waist, his mind vividly recalling how wonderful that felt on the balcony last time and seeming satisfied that it produced the same effect. Perhaps the place would be good and deserted inside or at least filled with people that could mind their own fucking business.
Eden allowed himself to be guided towards the entrance, his gaze trained on Koto as he admired the sweater and how exquisitely the color complimented his hair and eyes. Burgundy...a red not so brilliant enough to wash the other out, yet just enough color to make him stand out; looked expensive too. A touch of autumn to complement the setting sun, at least that's what Koto's scheme reminded him of.
"Y-you look so nice by the way, that color suits you well...sorry I had to say something"
The words flowed from his lips with a tiny smile, a flush creeping to his cheeks as he glanced away shyly and looked into the restaurant; a brilliant mural on the back wall catching his eye. This was certain to be a lovely evening, one to gush about to the courtesan next door...a person he halfway dared to call a friend named Hydrangea, at least that's what he called himself sometimes...
"That sounds wonderful... it smells so good, the balcony seat while the sun sets...? This was a good choice, Koto..." [break][break] Koto's flush darkened at the mild compliment; gods, was there anything this guy could say that wouldn't result in the blood rushing to his cheeks? [break][break] "Y-You look so nice by the way, that color suits you well... sorry I had to say something." [break][break] Ah, and there was another one. It was just a damn compliment, you'd think he'd have gotten used to it after the years of being brandished around like some expensive accessory. Compliments rolled in easy enough from elitists trying to get in good with Ito family. Something about this was... dangerously different, though. He couldn't help the instinctive way his touch became a bit stronger against the curve of Eden's back. [break][break] "Heh, nothing to apologize for," he replied sheepishly, grateful for the excuse of opening the door to distract him, to keep his gaze from lingering on that form, nervous he'd just end up ogling if he chanced a glance. "Besides, it means a lot coming from someone like you; not many people can pull off a gown like that last night and then still look this attractive in an ensemble like this." And without thinking that hand smoothed gently against that little curvy area of Eden's back, some kind of gesture that ended up being far more intimate than he perhaps had intended. [break][break] Flustered upon realizing the movement and potential implications of it--again forgetting that this was a date--Koto actually released the hold and pressed his hands back into his pockets as they headed for the welcome stand. [break][break] "Two, please," he noted to the hostess, nodding in hello. "On the balcony if we could." [break][break] The young woman, probably one of the university students, nodded perhaps a bit more enthusiastically than was necessary, her gaze flicking between the two young men, clearly more than a little flustered by their appearance. It wasn't exactly unheard of, this sort of thing, expensive clothes and well-groomed features often garnering similar reactions, though it was a bit more embarrassing of an incident with Eden at his side. At least he clearly wasn't the only one getting a few sideways glances, Eden receiving plenty himself, some strange, unfamiliar sense of pride lilting through Koto's system at the thought of his date being alluring to others. His occupation notwithstanding, it was a nice way of internally justifying his attraction to the man. [break][break] Attraction. [break][break] Gods, yeah, that's what it was, wasn't it. He hadn't really thought about it much--surprising, considering how much he'd thought about the man himself over the past 24 hours--but admitting that he was actively attracted to the guy was... somehow rather relieving. A weight lifted off his shoulders he didn't realize he'd pressed down onto them. It was almost enough to get him to return that guiding palm. Almost. [break][break] Nerves still kept his hands to himself, though as they were led up to their balcony seat, Koto was sure to keep their bodies close. He didn't even try to justify that one to himself, at least able to admit that he just liked being near the other, the memories of tugging the other man into his lap the night prior still plenty easy to visualize. [break][break] "Thank you," he noted as the hostess ushered them towards a table right at the edge of the balcony, white stone barring them from falling, the table itself made of some beautiful azure tile work. He let Eden sit first, taking the available seat across from him, the sea-colored cushions as comfortable as he remembered. "What's your poison tonight?" he posed as the hostess walked back to her station, before the waitress could come there way. Now positioned directly across from the man, it was far more difficult to keep his eyes off him... Not that he particularly wanted to do that. "They don't have a wide selection, but their wines are pretty good. Nothing expensive, but the house Merlot is pretty good. We uh..." and there came that sheepishness once more. "We could share a bottle if you'd like."
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
That touch against his back, just at his hips but not too low; it was perfect.
This was a good sign, it was hard to stop himself from smirking at the sensation. Such familiarities always preluded him getting what he wanted, be it attention, sex, money, or some combination of the three. Koto was falling right into his trap...but was that really what it was anymore? Perhaps they were both ensnared in something they refused to escape.
"Besides, it means a lot coming from someone like you; not many people can pull off a gown like that last night and then still look this attractive in an ensemble like this."
That compliment elicited a flush and a shy little giggle from the raven. A quiet grateful murmur passing through pale pink lips, feeling the other's hand as it spread across his back. Faintly, he felt a little weight lift off of his shoulders, at least he knew that Masakoto Ito's attention didn't hinge upon the presence of a dress, heels, and makeup. By how he was being handled, like something fine and pretty; it was easy to see the attraction was mutual...ah yes that was the word for it, wasn't it?
Attraction...dangerous as it was.
At least he wasn't alone in this land that he wasn't supposed to be in, he doubted the Ito family would've been very accepting of Koto's inclinations towards a man...especially one that was a courtesan. However, all at once, that hand withdrew from the small of his back; yet it raised no alarms.
Baby blues shot to Koto then, glancing over him softly as he took in his features while they waltzed into the restaurant and towards the hostess. Ah, so it was nervousness...he should've expected as much from the ginger, who seemed to know exactly what he wanted yet resisted against it so sporadically. He was a far cry from the little spider, whose life was a tale of hedonism, lies, and revenge.
It was then that the raven noted the enthusiasm of the hostess and the side glances they received as she walked them through the restaurant. He wouldn't act like he didn't enjoy the attention, the glances of the few patrons there who were obviously so enamored with both of them. Some twinge of pride growing in his chest to be seen with someone so handsome as Koto, even if he was just a fling or an arm ornament.
For an instant or two, his eyes flitted about the establishment, taking it all in as they were led to the balcony, that brilliant sun coming into view as it began tucking itself away towards the horizon. It was breathtaking, so much so that for a moment Eden paused to marvel at it all; how beautiful this world could be when it wanted to...it brought a twinkle to his blue eyes as he took his seat and looked over the table.
"This is so beautiful...a wonderful choice, I love sunsets."
The little raven spoke, his voice soft as could be and his tone like silk, seeming truly enamored with the place; which he was. Some part of him felt that in his heart, this might become somewhere he went for comfort, if nothing else just to sip wine on this balcony; even if he ended up discarding Koto.
He wanted to believe he could, but something about this one just...felt different. He didn't seem like the paper plate men he was so used to using and then tossing away like nothing. Perhaps the attractive redhead was different...or perhaps Eden was growing soft; loose in his convictions and lifestyle.
Though at the mentions of wine, his eyes lit up. The raven was a lightweight, however, he certainly had a taste for wine; especially Merlot and Malbec. The idea of sipping on alcohol of any kind with Koto before a sunset was...something to savor; a blip of heaven he could reach out and grab; so he did.
"I love wine...that sounds like a lovely idea! I-I could pay if you like, as a thank you for inviting me out I...I don't get to do this very much..."
He replied softly, a little shy coo in his voice as he spoke, hardly able to take his eyes off of the ginger as they sat across from one another. The restaurant and beautiful sunset blurred away behind them until all that was left in his vision was his date. That pale ginger mane and those deep indigo eyes...coupled with the sweater he was near picture-perfect. A flush settled on his cheeks as a small, content smile found its way to his lips while he sighed and spoke with a lilt of bliss to his tone.
Eden's life, by in large, was tinged with the darkness that he so readily bathed himself with. Patches of light and warmth like this were...so precious and rare. The little scorpion truly spoke for a moment, a shimmer of authenticity in his words even as he spoke through the mask he wore; the visage of some shy, sweet young man with good intentions.
"I-I hope I'm not being too forward but...I was very happy to get the call from you, I honestly wasn't sure if you'd even want to bother but...I'm very glad you did, thank you..."
Though all at once, their waitress appeared, sitting down menus and silverware wrapped in napkins with a notepad in hand; eagerly asking about their drink orders as she flashed them that classicly overly friendly look. It tore Eden's attention away, much to his dismay, though he waited for Koto to determine the wine before he spoke up for a glass of water.
"This is so beautiful... a wonderful choice, I love sunsets." [break][break] It was true. The sunset-lit city and, in particular, the landscape work of the nearby university were breathtaking. Hues of orange and red painting across the skyline and casting growing shadows along the edges of buildings. Beautiful. One of the best views in the city by Koto's reckoning. [break][break] So why the hell was he ignoring it all to stare at those damnable oceans across the table? [break][break] It wasn't like him, to be so infatuated so quickly, to have his interest sparked so wholly. Some rational part of his brain was assured that it was just Eden's status as a particularly pretty form of rebellion. Being with him--hell, just being near him--was a proverbial middle finger to his father, to his condescending, manipulative stepmother. A man, an escort, someone low-born; gods, he was everything he'd spent his youth being told to avoid. An insurrection, some quiet method of disobedience while granted the freedom from that estate in Osaka. Just a passing distraction... right? [break][break] Well, if nothing else, framing it like that made it easier for him to relax, potentially-blinding justification leading to a bit more ease in the way he sat in the chair. Still not in a particularly lounging position, he at least looked comfortable enough as he rested his arms on the top. [break][break] "I love wine...that sounds like a lovely idea! I-I could pay if you like, as a thank you for inviting me out I...I don't get to do this very much..." [break][break] Even with how pleasant that soft coo was to hear, Koto couldn't help but roll his eyes at the offer. When was the last time he'd actually gone out with someone and not paid? [break][break] "Hardly an issue," he replied with a dismissive shrug, thankfully not sounding too condescending... at least he hoped not. "Do you know how many times I've paid the way for stubborn, manipulative assholes? It'd be a nice change of pace to get to actually spend my money on someone who I enjoy being around." [break][break] Mmmmm... maybe a little too far. Was it too far? Was it weird to say that? To say that he enjoyed being around him? You asked him out to dinner; you clearly enjoy being around him, idiot, he chided himself. He was thinking of some way to clean up what he perceived as a royal fuck-up when Eden mercifully spoke up again. [break][break] "I-I hope I'm not being too forward but...I was very happy to get the call from you, I honestly wasn't sure if you'd even want to bother but...I'm very glad you did, thank you..." [break][break] Thank god for waitresses. Koto had no goddamn clue what to say, flustered to hell by that comment. A pleasurable sensation, sure, but one he needed time to process. The drink order was a merciful escape from the pressure, which would surely have left him muttering some brash, insulting thing that he'd have to spend an egregious amount of time backpedaling from. [break][break] "Bottle of the house Merlot and two glasses," he ordered, not bothering with a water himself, but allowing Eden the time to order his. [break][break] After a courteous, forced little smile at the woman, Koto perhaps all too eagerly turned away as she trotted off, indigos falling once more on Eden's form. He hadn't quite had the time to think up a normal way to return the previous comment, ultimately just stumbling back into his default of aggressive honesty. [break][break] "Yeah, because you giving me your number was somehow more forward than me pulling you into my lap last night," he replied sarcastically, eyes rolling once more, a deeper flush coming to his cheeks as he reminded himself again of their little embrace on the balcony. Gods, that had been nice... Forcing his gaze to the receding sunlight, one hand tapping a discordant rhythm across the tabletop while the other worked as a base for his chin to rest, he added, "Honestly, I'm not the best with holding back my impulses; you're lucky I didn't just call you right after leaving the party." He scoffed at himself, not particularly keen on the self-deprecating joke, but it rang true. Few knew his flaws better than he himself. Still, he managed the courage to glance back into those azures, finger-tapping still at full force. "I'm uh... I'm glad you agreed. Was worried you'd think I was some rich creep just trying to use you or something." [break][break] Are you not? his mind immediately posed, a debate he didn't have the energy nor inclination to partake in at the moment. Instead, the faintest smile upturned his lips, mild notes of teasing in the expression. [break][break] "I hope the rest of your evening went well despite the moment of scandalousness."
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
As time elapsed between them, Eden's head, as always, ran at a million miles an hour. Constantly thinking of the future, always 10 steps ahead minimum, planning the web he would wrap others up in.
So it wasn't a huge surprise when he began to wonder again about Koto's true intentions. Some part of Eden liked the idea of toying with him, using him for all that he was worth; surely the ginger had similar intentions with him. Why else would one wine and dine a whore?
Perhaps the seemingly sweet Masakoto wasn't as sugary as he let on, maybe Eden was a fix for him...though the little raven couldn't fault him for that; he saw him much of the same way. Though the longer he stared at Koto, took in his looks, his mannerisms, and the way he spoke; droplets of fear began to form within him. Paranoia of what lay ahead. It was akin to the sensation of traveling through one's own home in the dark, yet feeling that something was out of place when it shouldn't have been.
Dread, a foreboding glint upon the webs he planned to weave. Perhaps he should've walked away, cut the cord while it was possible; but Eden had never been one to fear anything.
Be it death, men, or monsters; he ran from no one.
So he slipped into his role, propping an elbow against the white wall railing and allowing his chin to rest in his hand, making himself more comfortable as well as Koto shifted to lounge almost. Something about that level of confidence was far too enticing, as though the other man wasn't already enough of that with that lovely tinged mane and those bottomless indigo eyes.
"Do you know how many times I've paid the way for stubborn, manipulative assholes? It'd be a nice change of pace to get to actually spend my money on someone who I enjoy being around."
The answer might've been off-putting to some, however, Eden read the compliments between the lines, another giggle passed between his lips and a hand moved to tuck a strand of black silk behind his ear. Had the waitress not come between them, he might've said something soft and delicate to the other man; a bold move that might've been made too soon.
Fortunately, she left as quickly as she went, taking their drink orders in her little notepad as she did so.
"Yeah, because you giving me your number was somehow more forward than me pulling you into my lap last night,"
With that, his attention snapped back to Koto then, those baby blues growing as soft as rain puddles on the redhead as he spoke. Oh...now Koto was just asking for it, asking for it with the way he flushed at his own words; practically begging for something affectionate and teasing to pass between his lips. If he hadn't been playing the part of someone so soft and sweet...something far more suggestive and alluring might've come out.
"True but...that was a lot more pleasant and exciting than shoving paper into your hand,"
The little scorpion teased, his voice a lovely noise, eyes lighting up almost as Koto carried on about how he was lucky to not have gotten a call right after the party. In truth, it was probably a good thing he didn't; however, the thought of the other wanting to do that at all made his heart flutter in a way that concerned him. He was getting too into the role he was playing, this story was encaptivating for more reasons than one.
"I-I'm the same...why do you think I didn't ask for yours? I knew if I did I would've immediately called."
Those words, although he didn't want them to be, were honest. Granted, Eden wouldn't have been able to call right after, considering Nobuhisa had a habit of making himself quite the pest, but it certainly would've happened as soon as the man left him alone.
"I'm uh... I'm glad you agreed. Was worried you'd think I was some rich creep just trying to use you or something.
I hope the rest of your evening went well despite the moment of scandalousness."
God Masakoto Ito was as cute as could be. That little teasing statement, both of them really, made him want to chuckle. Scandal ran in the blood of those with such a job like he had, so much so that they hardly batted an eye when a true one happened. It was just part of the job.
So he played up that lovely act, a flush coming to his features as he glanced away, his eyes cast towards the sunset for a moment as he seemed to ponder on his words. Really there was no thinking to be done, this was a role he knew like the back of his hand; it was a routine he'd performed hundreds of times. A show so well-practiced that it felt real, fluid, and genuine.
"I-if I'm honest I was worried you would think I was desperate for giving you my number. I've...never really done that before, given the number without my rates but...I didn't want you to think I was just trying to get hired."
He lied, passing it off as truth with his mannerisms and the waver in his voice. In truth, his intentions were to use Koto; however not for money. Eden Rosair was never a name one should assume was broke. His bank account, the hidden and visible ones, were disgusting, vile even with the numbers he pushed. It was the perk of being raised in a frugal household and taught to only keep what made you happy and only purchase what you needed.
"It went okay after that, Nobuhisa had...a little too much so I may or may not have gotten another thousand for babysitting him for the rest of it. I hope your business associate didn't give you too much trouble for...y-you know, the balcony thing."
The little raven chirped, a slight giggle coming to his lips as his fingertips covered them; teasing back as he mentioned Sudohara. Picking at was something Eden enjoyed, however, his sights were set on something else. He wanted to truly know the man he was about to toy with, to learn of him beyond his name, wealth, and cuteness.
"I-I'd like to hear about you though, tell me about yourself...isn't that what people do on dates? Get to know one another?"
He asked, his tone containing a feigned curiosity, though in truth Eden hadn't gone on many real dates, at least not ones for enjoyment. Though he kept talking, giving his date a specific question as he looked at him with a friendly but expectant look. Soft blues fixating on the other man as an equally delicate smile crossed his mouth. Pink lips upturning as he rested his elbow upon the wall once more and a cheek upon his palm.
"You mentioned that you used to go here a lot in college...what'd you study and was it something you actually wanted to do?"
There was some comfort in that returned sentiment, in the assurances offered that Eden had enjoyed their little fumble on the balcony that night prior. Koto couldn't help the rather pleased smile, no matter how small, that slipped across his countenance. He tried to cover it with the hand he rest his chin on, fingers moving to at least mildly obstruct the grin. Nothing, though, could hide the red flush that coated his features, apparently quickly becoming a required accessory when interacting with Eden. [break][break] "I-if I'm honest I was worried you would think I was desperate for giving you my number. I've...never really done that before, given the number without my rates but...I didn't want you to think I was just trying to get hired." [break][break] Oh. Oh that was a dangerous flutter, his heart skipping perhaps more beats than was healthy. Unable--and honestly unwilling--to take his eyes off the other, Koto felt himself drawn in by that statement, something so flattering about the idea of someone like that wanting him for... well, himself. At least, that's what he assumed he meant by all that. Koto had a lack of experience with hired affection; for all he knew, this was part of the game itself; maybe he wasn't the one doing the wine-ing and dine-ing. [break][break] Obnoxiously roundabout way to do it if so, he thought as he listened to his companion discuss the rest of his evening. Who the hell would go through so much trouble when he could've just given me his rates in the first place? [break][break] That thought, of course, thrust him down a wholly-unwanted contemplation of just what Eden's rates were, something he wasn't particularly keen on exploring. He didn't have an issue with the guy's job; he just knew himself well enough to know that discussing some specific pieces like that might... Get you to make an offer, his mind immediately teased, the mild truth in the statement as embarrassing as the fact that he'd been thinking about the other's occupation at all. [break][break] "...business associate didn't give you too much trouble for... y-you know, the balcony thing." [break][brak] "O-Oh! No! Sudohara is a lot of horrible things," he quickly assured, tone suggesting the honest affection he held for his mentor despite his words, "but he's a man who knows how to uh... be discreet." And he chuckled as well. "Just a mild bit of teasing behind closed doors; nothing I'm not used to already." [break][break] The grumble was met with those posed questions, Koto finally managing to break that stare he'd had lingering on the other's form in order to glance back towards the nearby campus. God, it really was beautiful. His best memories were there, his highest highs and his lowest lows. He loved the place; one of the reasons he'd been so vehement about being the Ito heir to come and work in the city. When he spoke again, indigos hooding in some nostalgic display, his voice was gentle, filled with that quiet affection. [break][break] "Yeah I went to Tokyo U for three-and-a-half years," he explained, gaze slowly following the curves of that much-beloved space. "I double-majored in business management and architectural design." He laughed, lightly, like it was some old joke. "I'm sure you can guess which one I liked better. But yeah it... uh... I have a lot of good memories of this place." He smiled, softly, some little unintentional show of the gentleness beneath the nervous, harsh exterior. "Been my favorite place ever since." [break][break] There was a long moment, then, of silence, of Koto clearly losing himself in some favored memories of the campus. He flushed a deep, embarrassed crimson when he realized how sentimental that must have come off, flustering as he turned back to Eden. [break][break] "Wh-What uh... What about you? Ever uhm g-go to school for anything? Or want to?"
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
"O-Oh! No! Sudohara is a lot of horrible things, but he's a man who knows how to uh... be discreet. Just a mild bit of teasing behind closed doors; nothing I'm not used to already."
The sentiment made him chuckle, what a lovely relationship that must be. The little raven felt a twinge of envy within, how nice it must be to be able to have things like that; casual picking relationships where deep down you cared for one another. He couldn't relate...though he wanted to. Though it was a consequence of a life he'd chosen.
When you spent your life causing misery, despair, and death to those who...frankly deserved it; friendships or really any sort of relationships beyond a surface level simply weren't possible. It would've made the frequent moving too painful.
"O-oh good I was worried he'd give you a hard time! I would feel bad if I'd...gotten you in trouble or anything,"
He replied, his voice carrying a sigh of relief. The little raven was about to carry on chirping before he noted the way that the lovely ginger looked to the campus. That familiar and yet...so foreign look of fondness, nostalgia for days long since passed and in different calendars. It was look he hadn't seen in a while, the last time being on himself in the reflection of some high-rise building in Los Angeles. He wasn't born there, but that city had his soul; in spite of its flaws and the thousands of miles between them.
When Koto looked like that and spoke in such a tone, Eden couldn't help but be entranced, the little spider pausing his weaving for a few instances in time as he listened. Blue eyes had gone soft at the display as he listened to the redhead's tale intently. Allowing the passage of some silence between them as his eyes so gently rested upon the other man.
He hated how endearing this visage was, of Koto gazing into the city as if he was looking through all of his memories, the sun casting gold on his face and hair while they sat in a charming little restaurant. It was...too perfect, like the shit he'd see in magazines or read about in books. Moments like this didn't really happen...or did they?
"That sounds lovely, going to school somewhere like this and studying something you like,"
His little voice came out soft, almost like a sigh as his eyes flitted out into the campus. Some part of him wished he could've had college years to figure things out but...no sense in upsetting himself by thinking of what could've been. Instead, he showed just a shred of genuine emotion, the creation of webs pausing for a moment as the spider allowed himself a moment of humanity.
"I'm glad you can have those memories, it must feel nice to be back here..."
Those blue eyes searched the campus, trying to imagine some far-flung version of himself bustling about to classes with a bag filled with books. Worrying about assignments rather than selling fantasies to monsters and then plunging a sword through their hearts. Though at the question, he was almost left speechless and a quiet little hum left the raven at that moment. He wasn't sure why but...it hadn't occurred to him that Koto would ask the same. A silly mistake on his part. He took a moment to ponder, unsure really on a genuine level if he'd ever wanted to.
"N-no...never got the chance really, too much going on and it was just never the right time."
He started, looking back to Koto with a soft smile on his feature, masking the little blip of sadness he felt. What a sweet life that would've been to lead, going off to college and chasing his dreams of becoming an actor; he would've been damn good at it too.
"Feels too late now but, I would've wanted to do something with movies. Maybe storytelling or set designing...I love decorating so I might've loved that too."
Another statement, another lie. Some part of him felt that if he disclosed his desire to be an actor; that Koto might become wary of him. He'd keep that little dream to himself, as he'd always done, regardless of how necessary it truly was. Though decorating at least was a genuine passion; a truth peppered over falsehoods.
"That sounds lovely, going to school somewhere like this and studying something you like. I'm glad you can have those memories, it must feel nice to be back here..." [break][break] It was, truly. Even with all the memories he had to ignore, those ones from that latter few weeks of his time at university, he couldn't help but look at the overall experience with nothing but adoration. It was the one place he'd felt comfortable, the one time he'd felt like himself, like the himself he wanted to be; it was a high he continued to strive and find years later, always falling just a little bit short. [break][break] He was grateful for his own change of subject, for being able to focus on Eden instead. Even so, his brows knitted in concern at that man's explanation, heart hurting more than he would have liked it to, some subconscious understanding of whatever lingering pain was hidden behind those words even if consciously he didn't feel or understand those depths to the answer. [break][break] "Not acting?" he questioned with a lighthearted chuckle, not realizing the hidden points he was pressing, a gentle smile on his features. "You'd look good on camera; probably better on some big movie poster." He chuckled, though the compliment was authentic; it was hard to get over how attractive the other was, how well put together. Pretty was certainly too tame a term. [break][break] He maybe would have said more--probably to his own detriment--but the waitress returned with their drinks. Wine and glasses and Eden's water were deposited, Koto quickly apologizing that they didn't know what they wanted yet. They weren't in much of a hurry, he explained, flushing at the comment as he turned to start pouring them there drinks. She scurried off after glancing between them, a flush of her own ever-present. [break][break] "A-Anyway, you said decorating?" he continued as he filled those glasses with that deep crimson liquid. His gaze flicked to the other as he finished up the pours and slid the other's drink his way. "My brother Shiro is an actor and model, but he's always wanted to get into the design side of things. I think he wanted to focus more on clothing and costumes than set-design though." And he laughed, nonchalant, as if what he was about to say didn't have some suggestive implications. "I'm sure my apartment could use a remodeling. I usually hire someone to do it; maybe you could come over and give me some pointers so I don't have to keep hiring help." [break][break] He stopped himself from talking, the suggestion of Eden coming over to his home already enough to get him flustering again, by taking his initial sip of wine and casting his eyes to the menu as if he wasn't about to just order his usual.
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
Those words made his skin prickle, though he hid it behind a faint little giggle. What was Koto suggesting? The little raven couldn't think of a thing he'd done to give himself away. Anxiety began to fester within him, however, with another string of words...the ginger quelled those fears with a quickness.
"You'd look good on camera; probably better on some big movie poster."
Now that...that made him flush, pink tinging his cheeks as he pressed his fingertips to his lips and glanced away shyly, his giggling never ceasing. Eden knew he was pretty, however when someone as handsome as Koto said it...it just meant more to him for some reason. It made his cheeks burn.
He'd opened his mouth to thank the other, yet as their waitress turned up and the redhead went about apologizing to her; the words stalled in his mouth. It was only once she departed that he let out any sound at all.
"T-thank you...you're very sweet to say that, though I think you'd look better on a poster or screen than me..."
He cooed quietly, fingertips still at his lips. The little scorpion was so very entranced in the other now that he'd hardly even registered the expression of their waitress as she scurried off post depositing the wine and glasses. Poor thing, she'd die if she knew what Eden did for work with other men. This was nothing by comparison; pure even if his intentions were everything but.
At the question, he nodded, watching the other fill his glass and slip it over to him; dainty little fingers winding around the stem and gingerly lifting to smell the wine. It certainly had a pleasant aroma, wine was always so hit or miss in his experience...this one however, was promising.
Even still, his eyes remained trained upon Koto, soft pools of blue as gentle as a passing wind as he listened to the ginger ramble on about his brother. Some other fool that the spider didn't care about, however he found himself caring as the ginger carried on about him. Koto was so very endearing, the way he chattered on about things and then became flustered afterwards. He could feel himself slipping somewhere dangerous, where things might not go according to plan and yet...he didn't care.
Nothing seemed to matter as he sat on this balcony, wine in his hand, the sun setting in the distance and casting them both in gold as a handsome man entertained him. Surely this man was no monster, though he feared that he might make for a much beloved toy; one too dear to toss away if he needed to. Yet he resolved to do nothing but attempt the first sip of the wine in his hand.
"I'm sure my apartment could use a remodeling. I usually hire someone to do it; maybe you could come over and give me some pointers so I don't have to keep hiring help."
He stopped then, eyes flitting up to the man with hair like pale flames as he almost couldn't believe what he was hearing. Though it brought a sweet if a bit flushed smile to his lips as he cast his eyes from him then; his lips meeting the burgundy wine and taking some of it in. Surely, Masakoto Ito had other intentions with him beyond just playing decorator...with an offer like that.
Koto was right, it was a good choice, smooth yet not too floral or sweet; it brought a delighted hum from him as he lowered the glass to answer finally.
"O-oh really? You would let me..? I'd love to! I've only ever decorated bedrooms but...I'd be more than happy to come over and help,"
He replied shyly, tucking another stray lock of hair behind his ear as he looked up to the ginger for a moment and then glanced down at the menu. Feigning that little image with an expert hand as he worked to sell Koto an elaborate fantasy. It was hard to mask how his heart fluttered with excitement, wondering just what might lay in store for him if he ventured over to Koto's place; certainly, something he'd find enjoyment in...be it decorating or more pleasurable ventures.
"The wine is delicious by the way...wonderful choice."
He spoke, offering another kind smile before his eyes began to search over the menu as well, deciding that perhaps they should order food and not keep their waitress well...waiting.
As his eyes flitted over the words, it all sounded too heavenly for him to choose one thing. Some part of him wondered if perhaps he should ask Koto for a recommendation...or just ask him to pick for him. Men usually liked that in his experience, at least some did; perhaps Koto was one such man.
"I-I'm not sure what to get, it all sounds wonderful...what would you recommend?"
He started, eyes drifting up to Koto and then back to the menu for a few moments, before his lips parted again.
"I-I'll get whatever you tell me...I trust your judgement."
"T-thank you...you're very sweet to say that, though I think you'd look better on a poster or screen than me..." [break][break] Koto would have laughed if he'd not gotten distracted by the waitress. He'd had his face plastered across tabloids plenty; he didn't need anything more than that, the idea of his face anywhere the public could readily see and judge sending a fresh pit of nerves into his gut. Just the week prior Sudohara had mentioned some ad campaign that company was working on, not-so-subtly suggesting Koto work as the face of it. He was prompt to reject the idea. [break][break] "O-oh really? You would let me..? I'd love to! I've only ever decorated bedrooms but...I'd be more than happy to come over and help," [break][break] A splendid and much-preferred change in topic, even if the idea of Eden coming over to his apartment was... a lot to process. Not that he--clearly--didn't want it, but the thought of bringing him home on a first date was more than a little nerve-wracking. You've already made out with him, his mind noted, sarcasm dripping through that inner monologue, Koto's lips returning to his wine glass a bit sooner than he had intended as he became awash with embarrassment and instinctively moved to attempt to cover it. [break][break] He did, at least, manage to hum and flash a smile at his companion's response to the wine, glad that Eden liked it. The nostalgic taste was certainly helping him get through, the entire familiar scene of the restaurant doing wonders for his nerves. [break][break] "O-Oh!" he murmured, surprised by the offer for him to basically just pick something. He wasn't used to that; a little nervous about making the decision if he was being honest, his brows knitting in concerned concentration as his perusal of the menu became more focused an effort. He murmured his contemplations aloud without really thinking about it. "Well, I usually just get the gyro platter with goat cheese and olive side... the flatbread meals are good... and the leg of lamb... really good rosemary and garlic flavor... uhm... shit, but the Moussaka is delicious too... uhm..." [break][break] His nervous ramblings were interrupted by the waitress returning. Jeez, so fast, his mind grumbled, gaze flitting to Eden briefly in a final question of "are you sure this is okay?" before he turned and placed their order. [break][break] "We'll start with a plate of spanakopita," he said, smile gentle as he explained, cheeks lightly flushed. "I'll have the gyro platter and a side of the goat cheese and olives. And he'll have uh... Paidakia please. Side of rosemary flatbread." [break][break] Seemingly satisfied, if not remarkably anxious, he handed the waitress the menu and returned to the safety of his wine glass as he waited for her to leave them once more. Once she was gone, he flashed a sheepish look across the table. [break][break] "I uh... hope you're okay with that..."
Sorry for the bad news, sorry I'm so bad. Only took a minute for me to get what you had. Sorry for the bad news, know it makes you sad. I’ll be here for a minute baby you should pack your bags
Eden Rosair was the sort of man that didn't tend to pay attention to much outside of movies and fashion magazines, so if Koto mentioned that he'd been on the cover of tabloids; it certainly would've surprised the little raven...and perhaps bolstered the desire to add the redhead as another notch on his belt. Notch on his belt; something he hoped that he could reduce Koto to. Though as the evening carried on, that fear kept nagging in his head...what if he couldn't?
You can, you've done it before. He's not special. They're all the same under those fine words.
He's probably trying to use you too.
However, as Koto yammered on about what he liked to get and practically listed the entire menu...he couldn't help but wonder.
"Well, I usually just get the gyro platter with goat cheese and olive side... the flatbread meals are good... and the leg of lamb... really good rosemary and garlic flavor... uhm... shit, but the Moussaka is delicious too... uhm..."
As the ginger carried on, he listened intently, eyeing things as Koto spoke and humming or nodding at each suggestion. Honestly, he would've been fine with any of them, he was just happy to be trying something new with someone he held an interest in; nefarious or not. So when their waitress appeared again and Koto proceeded to order for the both of them, Eden found that he didn't mind in the slightest.
"And he'll have uh... Paidakia please. Side of rosemary flatbread."
Those words brought him some weird sense of happiness that he couldn't explain, but it felt like the good sort of butterflies in his stomach. For someone who liked being in control and always needed it to be that way, it was a concerning space to be in; but he hid the discomfort with an expert hand...or mask, however, one chose to look at it.
"O-oh that didn't bother me at all...I kind of liked it actually, I don't believe I've ever had Paidakia..."
The little scorpion responded, that ever pleasant tone to his voice in spite of how conflicted the action made him feel. Conflict; that was what Koto in general made him feel. He hated how endearing the other had shown himself to be, despised that the pretty ginger was able to make him doubt his own callousness and abilities...yet he enjoyed it at the same time.
The pleasantries, no matter how awkward some of them might've been, reminded the spider of how very human he was under the air he put on; it was bittersweet. It was so much easier to be who he was when that reminder wasn't there.
He took another sip of wine, trying to push those thoughts away as he maintained that soft visage of tenderness that he almost always donned. That was the person Koto was interested in, not the wicked creature that lied underneath it...or even the ones underneath that one. He downed that liquid, taking the edge off with the flavor and subtle burn of the alcohol as it trickled into his system.
It was only after a moment passed that he spoke again, making small talk in an effort to get Koto talking again. The last thing he wanted was for this to go poorly...whether it was because he wanted Koto as a plaything or not. Eden didn't get to go on dates very often, so when he did; he preferred that they be a fond memory to look back at on lonely nights.
"So fast, must be in a hurry to get us taken care of," he started, though his tone was more light and humored than anything. "I never thought I'd not want speedy service but...this is nice, I'm enjoying it."
The little raven carried on, flashing Koto a soft smile with a tinge of rose coloring his cheeks, those baby blues meeting deep indigoes before they flitted away again; tapping into that shy, sweet act once more. It seemed to put his genuinely anxious, handsome companion at ease so...naturally, he leaned into it.
However, he still circled back to what he was most interested in...'giving decor pointers' and how Koto's apartment factored into the equation.
"D-did you have anything in particular in mind for your place...? What kind of look you would be going for I mean..."
