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.
"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..."
"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.
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?"
"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."
"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."
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."
He was drunk. That's why those lips tasted so good, why those fingers in his hair felt like heaven, why that man's flushed features looked so goddamn enticing. He was drunk and those lowered inhibitions were making him see and feel things that weren't really there. It was why he couldn't take his eyes off of Eden; it was why he shivered at that hand gripping at his fabrics; it was why he met that second kiss, gentle and reserved, with an increased fervor; it was why he hadn't made an actual move back towards the party. [break][break] Right? [break][break] He didn't care. Truly, he didn't. Tomorrow he would care, when the sunlight hit him and he had to groan his way back into existence, into that world where this wasn't allowed. For now, though, he did what was so often off limits, and he let himself enjoy the moment, let himself smile, however, faintly, into that third kiss and breath a sigh of pleasure at that following nuzzling at his cheek. [break][break] "Must we go back...? I-I like you... I want to stay like this." [break][break] "I like you too..." [break][break] The murmur slipped from him involuntarily, the words truthful if not potentially misguided. He certainly was interested in the guy, though some sane part of his brain was justifying that interest as due to the exoticism of him, to the scandal and rebellion he so perfectly encompassed. [break][break] "We could stay here... if you wanted... I won't tell if you don't." [break][break] Fuck, if that sentence didn't perfectly encapsulate and highlight what he found so endearing about this man. Eden was against the rules, dangerous in a way that was all too alluring. It's why he was already twisting his neck, pressing his lips to Eden's palm before that question was even posed, why his hooded azures were drowning themselves in that beautiful facade, why when his name slipped from those flushed lips he didn't answer with words, but instead tugged Eden back to him, to his lips and tongue and his hands entangling further in that sea of onyx. [break][break] He wasn't careful anymore, not nearly as much. He didn't stifle that bit of him that wanted to just dive headfirst into the expanse that was Eden Rosair. He'd already come this far, messed up this much, he could allow a bit more. It's what he wanted and, gods, he hardly ever got what he wanted anymore. He could indulge for that night, for that moment, for that single breath. [break][break] Ha, breathing. Like he was doing any of that. The closest he got was taking in Eden's scent as he kissed him, as his lips fit to the contours of the other and he opened his mouth to invite his tongue inside. His grip on Eden's back, still loose enough for his companion to pull away, shifted to his waist, hugging the curvature of it as he pulled back for a much needed gasp. [break][break] It wasn't a long pause, though, Koto's flushed countenance taking in his companion's comfort level just briefly before he was diving back in, groaning as he perhaps got a bit overzealous, leaning back, practically tugging Eden into his lap. It was clumsy, tipsiness and nerves making his hands and lips fumble, but the stuttering movements just brought a fresh crimson to his cheeks and a gravelly chuckle into the mix of their embrace. His hands, seemingly moving on their own at this point, scour the rest of Eden's figure, hands at his waist, guiding him on top of him-- [break][break] "Ahem!" [break][break] Koto practically had a heart attack, tugging from Eden like a panicked deer. His indigos flitted to the new form on the balcony as he scrambled to his feet, Eden deposited as gently as possible in his haste back onto the bench. Wide blues stared at the intruder, recognition and annoyance arriving after a moment of staring. [break][break] "S-Sudohara!" he hissed, the name like a curse on his lips, some mild form of relief in his tone even as he remained the color of a tomato. [break][break] "M-Masakoto!" his partner mimicked, that hearty laugh slipping from him at his comrade's flushed, clearly mortified countenance. He glanced between the two younger men, still clearly trying not to bark out too loud of laughter, even shooting Eden a little wink before turning his full attention back to Koto. He shot his mentee a knowing, amused, god perhaps even proud little look before slapping him on the back and turning towards the door. "Come on," he called over his shoulder as he headed back towards the music and lights, "Nobuhisa will be out of the bathroom soon and he's already been asking about you both." [break][break] A long moment passed, dumbstruck, before Koto managed to get ahold of himself, glancing back at Eden with some expression halfway between mortification and apology.
"I-I think the same of you..." [break][break] Why was he smiling like that? [break][break] "...standing across the way from my couch..." [break][break] Why was he so close? [break][break] "I think you're very cute..." [break][break] Why was he whispering like that? [break][break] "Koto..." [break][break] Why was he-- [break][break] Were he in any clearer a headspace, Koto probably would have been able to anticipate that little peck at the corner of his lips. He probably could have reacted a bit quicker, potentially pulling away, remaining vigilant to his responsibilities; or maybe he'd have twisted, letting their lips collide in some half-accidental first kiss. But none of that happened, because Koto was still trying to catch up, still trying to wrangle through those complimentary words, trying to convince himself that maybe, just maybe, this handsome young man was authentically interested in him and not after his money or fame or some scandal to attach his name to. [break][break] And so Koto didn't pull away and he didn't reciprocate. Instead, he sat there, dumbfounded, indigos wide as he felt the gentle press of Eden's mouth against his skin. So soft... He could feel, could practically hear, the way his heartbeat picked up in pace, pounding in his chest as his grip on the other tightened. Why did he...? [break][break] His blues found Eden's when the younger man pulled away, Koto's face the color of his blazer, something akin to childlike wonder coating his visage. Silence lingered between them, Koto's mind running in circles, trying to figure out what the hell to do. [break][break] He's here with Nobuhisa. [break]
He doesn't like him, though.
[break] Regardless, he's Nobuhisa's date. [break]
Except he was just hired to be here.
[break] Then maybe he's hoping to get hired by you. [break]
But he said he doesn't want that.
[break] But is he telling the truth? [break]
Gods, he's so... lovely...
[break][break] "Gods, you're so lovely..." [break][break] Of all the roaming thoughts to slip out, of course it was that one, that romantic core aching as he stared down into those breathtaking baby blues. Without his realizing it, the hand entangling in that ocean of charcoal had adjusted, smoothing across Eden's form to cup the side of his face. [break][break] "We... We should get back..." [break][break] He didn't mean. Gods, it was so obvious that he didn't mean it. He didn't make a move to leave, didn't tug away, didn't look away, completely enraptured by that presence pressed so scandalously up against him. Slowly, his eyes hooded, some rapture in the expression. [break][break] "They'll be looking for us." [break][break] He didn't care. Not a single ounce of him cared, that disinterest in anything outside of that moment so clearly identifiable in the way his breath coasted across Eden's lips as he drew closer. [break][break] "We're not supposed to do this..." [break][break] But that just made it all the more likely to happen, didn't it? Koto had never been good at being the responsible Ito heir, at playing pretend like he was some sophisticated elite. He always messed up, always found a way to be a disappointment, always was just short of being good enough. [break][break] Why should tonight be any different? [break][break] Koto kissed him with a quiet hunger, desperate need in the way his fingertips slipped just past Eden's hairline and tugged him forward, but gentleness in the way his lips so softly curved against the other's. It wasn't long, wasn't drawn out or heightened into some scandalous, breathtaking passion, but instead it held that mixture of timidity and spontaneity that so often guided Koto's actions. When he pulled back, flushed and breathing just a bit heavier, he let his gaze hood, tracing the contours of Eden's features as his thumb moved to glide across that plump bottom lip. [break][break] He tastes so good... [break][break] "We should get back to the party..." he murmured again, barely above a whisper, hardly breathing at all.
"T-Thank you, you're... you're so kind, Koto..." [break][break] Well he certainly hadn't been called that in a while, Koto's cheeks flushing a deep, sheepish crimson at the compliment. He didn't question it, though, the sentiment the instigator for this far too pleasing embrace. Each moment of Eden's adjustments, of those subtle movements into relaxed comfort, sent an exhilarated little shiver down Koto's spine. That hand on his back, paired with those wide azures, was particularly endearing. [break][break] He was still mulling over that entanglement, still trying to justify why they should stay like that for a little longer... just a little longer... when those baby blues, filled to the brim with that dangerous cocktail of affection and appreciation, upturned his way. For what felt like the hundredth time that night, Koto's mind echoed that complimentary phrase. [break][break] Gods, he's so pretty... [break][break] "I-I'm glad you're not mean... like some people have been..." [break][break] Koto had to stifle the scoff that begged to slip out at his companion's words. As unintentional as it was, he certainly had a tendency to come off crass with that sharp, stupid tongue of his. It was hard for him to accept the idea that someone who seemed so sweet and mild-tempered would find him anything more than another rich brute. Hell, he half-believed that even their little hug was a show of that brackish disposition, like that gentle hold was something innately nefarious. Amazing what some choice words of discouragement during the development years can do to a psyche; Koto could just hear the snide comments of his stepmother if she could see him now, sequestered away with another man's man, holding him close like they were anything more than new acquaintances. [break][break] "The word 'bastard' definitely doesn't suit you... y-you're too sweet for an insult like that I think. Thank you again for this I'm-- I'm sorry for crying on you and... assuming this was okay. I'm glad Sudohara came over and brought you with him I... I felt bad for staring at your earlier, I wanted to talk to you but, I was too nervous..." [break][break] The sentiments may have been filled with lies, but Koto was certainly already too ensnared in that spider's web to realize it. Instead, his heart fluttered at the flattery, at the kindness, at that false demureness. He willed his gaze to stay trained on those enticing features, but he couldn't manage it, glancing off to the side in some show of scarlet-crested nervousness. Gods, Eden was so close. He could smell the alcohol on the other man's breath, mixing so unexpectedly nicely with what he guessed was lavender and... something. [break][break] "I uh... I'm glad he did too. The guy can be obnoxious as all hell, but at least he's good for something," he murmured in response, hoping he didn't sound as awkward as he felt. He chanced a glance back at that dangerously close face, willing himself not to be the creep that his hormones certainly were trying to goad him to become. "I didn't mind the staring. More than a little bit flattering, really, someone as nice-looking as you eyeing me down." He chuckled, breathy and nervous, gaze flitting away again, practically incapable of keeping eye contact when Eden was so close. A bit quieter, almost with a bit of a pout cresting his features, he added, "Can't say I wasn't staring, too..." Quieter still, an embarrassed mumble at this point. "You looked so good lounging across that couch..."
Koto's heart traitorously flipped as he felt Eden lean into his touch. Those continued tears were like some shot of Xanax, numbing him to those panicked inhibitions, his thumb continuing its work at limiting the amount of moisture that made its way down the length of Eden's features. That little voice in the back of his head continued to warn him, to scream that he should back off, should pull away. He wasn't the hero of some soap opera, he wasn't playing along in some rom-com; he was the face of the Ito clan. He had responsibilities and expectations and a plethora of other things that should have held him back, that should have convinced him to pull away and guide Eden back inside, back to Nobuhisa. [break][break] "Okay... I-I'm sorry... I'll try..." [break][break] More touching. Another skipped heartbeat. Stop! his mind screamed, the futility in that sentiment made so apparent by that quiet, enamored expression that had begun to creep across Koto's visage. As touch-starved as he'd been for so long, there wasn't an ounce of him that was prepared to pull away from that gentle grip. [break][break] Which is probably why his expression instinctively creased with disappointment when Eden pulled away. [break][break] He didn't have long to wade in that despondency, though, the feel of those arms wrapping around him, of that body pressing against him, sending a fresh bout of redness to his cheeks. He sat there for a long moment, lips pursed, eyes wide with surprise as those slender arms wrapped around his middle. He had to have looked like some broken puppet, arms both aloft as he tried to decide what the hell to do. Half of his mind willed him not to be some fucking creep about all of this, to keep his hands off of the other man; the other, more selfish half justified the move with some bullshit about it being more comforting, more for Eden than for himself. [break][break] As was becoming a trend that evening, the latter won out. [break][break] Careful not to spill any of that expensive whiskey, he set his glass on the floor of the balcony as Eden mumbled out that heart-wrenching thanks. Even as that apology followed, stumbling from his companion's lips, the chance at an easy escape from that situation, Koto's hands were smoothing across the other's form. One found purchase at Eden's lower back, thumb instinctively painting soft circles at the curve of his spine; his other moved up to cradle that head placed against his chest, his fingers entangling loosely in those dark locks before he could stop them. It was a far more intimate position than Koto had by any means expected to find himself in, azure gaze flitting around to make sure they were still alone before he let his shoulders, even minutely, relax. [break][break] "N-No, it's fine," he murmured out, despite himself, his grip tightening just slightly on the other man. Eden still had ample opportunity to tug away if he wanted--Koto wasn't about to trap him in that relatively scandalous position--but there was clear indication of the ginger's want for the embrace to continue, even for just a little longer. "Y-You can... You can stay as long as you need. I don't mind..." [break][break] He pursed his lips, trying to figure out what the hell to say. He'd only been in this type of situation a handful of times and he'd been some young idiot during all of them. [break][break] "I-- I'm sorry that you uhm... that you just assume that's going to be someone's reaction..." A deep frown flitted across his features, all too aware of the people who threw around those damnable, insulting monikers, his step-mother, again, coming to mind. How many times had she called his mother a whore to his face just because she had the looks and charm to catch his father's eye? "It's amazing how shitty people can be, huh?" He managed, somehow, to catch Eden's eye without letting his nerves get the best of him, the faintest of apologetic smiles ghosting across his features. "On behalf of all the rich bastards in the world, I'm sorry you've been treated like that. I don't know you well... obviously... but you don't seem the type to deserve it."
Koto could have laughed at that distasteful expression had it not immediately brought to mind his own initial experiences with alcohol. Daichi Ito, a man who thrived in control of all facets of his life, made a point to be the one to introduce each of his children to alcohol. This meant, as with so many of the things in the Ito children's lives, that their father chose for them what their first experience was like. For Koto, this meant an especially strong whiskey shoved into his hand when he was 15. He could recall with perhaps disgustingly perfect clarity the burn of that liquor stinging through his young form. Hell, he'd sputtered rather similarly to the young woman at his side, a thought that brought the smallest of humored grins to his features. [break][break] It felt strange, honestly, sitting here and offering his advice and guidance. What the hell kind of help could he provide? He'd spent the past twenty-some years struggling to find his own place in this toxic world; he was hardly an expert on surviving. [break][break] "Really...?" [break][break] Gods, those doe eyes were so intimidating in their silent persuasion. How the hell was he supposed to just sit back and let someone like this struggle and cry? If he had, he'd be just as bad, in his eyes, as that bastard with the roaming eyes and exploratory hands. And if there was one thing he never wanted to be, it was that. [break][break] At least she can manage eye contact, he quietly mused, some of his countenance calming as that faint smile crested her features. He was further amused to see that wandering gaze and flushed expression. It was almost painful, the amount of similarities he saw in Naoko and his younger self. Again, not that he was much better years later, but he at least could manage some semblance of a sophisticated, in-control mask. [break][break] ”Thank you for helping me calm down...but I-I’m not sure if I can go back out there... It feels really...suffocating in here.” [break][break] Koto cocked a curious brow, watching her expression and gestures from the corner of his eye as he sipped at that tumbler of scotch. [break][break] ”B-But you don’t have to stay here... I’m sure you have something better to do than babysit me.” [break][break] "Not really," he replied easily enough with some disinterested shrug. Sure, he probably should have been playing the part of charming host, going around like Sudohara was and greeting their company's guests and actually asserting himself as the face of the Ito clan in Tokyo, but there wasn't much interest there. Plus, Naoko was a guest, too, right? Meaning making sure she was comfortable was part of his duties as co-host, right? [break][break] "Mmmmmm, if you really don't want to go back..." he glanced around, clearly mulling over whether or not to say what was on his mind. Again, he didn't want to come off as one of those creepy pieces of shit. "I have a place I sometimes go to when I get too overwhelmed at these things. I could uh..." and he glanced away sheepishly, his own cheeks tinting ever so slightly. "I could show you if you'd like."
"I-I am... I won't lie to you but..." [break][break] Shit. Koto felt his gut twist at the sight of tears beginning to spill from those pretty blues. [break][break] "I don't want money I just thought..." [break][break] Truly, Eden hadn't even needed to explain himself. The moment those sapphire began to visibly mist, Koto was filled with regret, his conscience reprimanding himself as he desperately tried to figure out what the hell to do to fix this. [break][break] "I just thought you were cute and nice to me and..." [break][break] Koto's cheeks flushed, half from mortification at his own actions and half from that complimentary note. He opened his mouth to say something, but couldn't find the words, his gaze following the trajectory of those spilling sapphires. [break][break] "I thought it might be nice to just... talk to someone who wasn't a client..." [break][break] Shame. Gods, the amount of shame he immediately felt. Of course it wasn't about money, of course their interactions had been innocent. As much as he was terrified of being used, expecting it most of the time, Koto could understand all too well that want to just speak with someone, to be with someone, that was separate from the world of work. For a long moment, as that silence lingered between them, Koto tried to find the words to say, tried to actually think about the shit that came out of his mouth, not wanting to offend or upset Eden anymore than he already had. He had such a drive to reach forward and wipe at those tears for the other man, though he managed to stop himself with some self-deprecating thought on how creepy that could come off. [break][break] "No, I'm not after money I just... make someone think that I like them and then demand cash. A-Are you mad at me...?" [break][break] He should have been more cautious. He should have hesitated. Hell, he should have been smart enough to listen to that quiet, nervous voice in the back of his head telling him to be careful around this pretty little spider. Tears didn't make someone a good person; neither did attraction. For all he knew, he was falling perfectly into Eden's trap, stumbling through his well-placed web like a socially-inept fly. He needed to back away, stop drinking, actually get some air, and clear his head. He needed to breathe and think and not make any rash decisions. [break][break] But, gods, Koto had never been good and doing the right thing. [break][break] His hand released the back of the bench before he could stop it, moving to gently cup Eden's face. The action came like an old habit, this thumb gently grazing the other's cheek, hooking tears where it could find them. He'd used the move with Miki so many times, when that poor boy had lost himself in some frenzy of self-doubt and anxiety. This was all too similar, Koto's mouth getting him into trouble, causing someone he'd taken a liking to harm. It was a miracle he'd lasted this long before reaching out to the boy. [break][break] "N-No, of course not!" he exclaimed, as emphatically as he could, his hold tilting Eden's features up towards him as he forced himself not to shamefully glance away from those glistening blue hues. "I-I'm sorry; that came out all wrong! I'm not uh..." He paused, pursing his lips, clearly annoyed with himself more than anything. "I'm not great with watching my tongue. I... I was just surprised, that's all." A faint grimace, something near a disgruntled pout, slipped across his features without him realizing it, his tone turning into almost a childish murmur. "You're just stupidly good at tossing curveballs my way. And I'm stupidly bad at responding to them." [break][break] There was a longer pause, then, Koto taking a quick breath to try and regain some modicum of composure. When he spoke again, it was with that returned assurance, his gaze as sorrowful, as apologetic, as it could become. [break][break] "I'm sorry. I don't give a shit what you do for work. I spend my days trying to schmooze wealthy assholes into investing in our company endeavors. It's not that different, right? So I've got no room to talk." His features softened, apology and remorse still worn like some badge of shame. "P-Please don't cry anymore..."
There were a plethora of ways that Koto expected his companion to react to his little joke--laughter, offense, some playful tease in response. He was, by quite literally no means, expecting the confession that slipped from Eden's lips. [break][break] "A-An extra thousand on top of the total for the evening..." [break][break] At first, for a brief incredulous moment, Koto thought it was a joke, going so far as to even start chuckling. What a silly little joke, one that certainly seemed out of place coming from that timid, demure little flirt. But then... [break][break] "N-No I thought that was cute so... I'm glad Nobuhisa paid me more to wear it, I doubt we would've spoken past introductions if he hadn't. So... I supposed he did me a favor there." [break][break] To say that it took Koto a moment to fully process would be an understatement. Sitting there, his fingertips ghosting across the other's shoulder, his breath smelling of whiskey, he for a moment thought he'd misheard or misinterpreted. But as the moments ticked on with no laughter, no punchline, Koto was left staring dumbfounded at that pretty thing coated in crimson. His brows knit, mouth hanging open ever so slightly. [break][break] Money... Nobuhisa is... paying him... to be here... and paid him to dress like that... [break][break] A plethora of titles, of monikers, both insulting and flattering, flitted through the Ito heir's mind, trying to fit as appropriate for this little vixen at his side. He was so enticing, so flirtatious, so pretty and put together and endearing... [break][break] It's all an act. [break][break] The thought scared the hell out of Koto. He already assumed that everyone around him wanted something, was using him for one reason or another, but this made it all the more worse. He didn't even hear the compliment that lilted from Eden, the sound of his panicked heart beating in his ears momentarily drowning out the rest of the world. He couldn't manage an answer, his mind reeling, and so as was so often the case when Masakoto Ito found himself in high-stress situations, his mouth started moving on its own. [break][break] "Are you an escort?" How he managed to use a far more appropriate term than the ones that so often slipped from his step-mother's lips growing up was a miracle. "Are... Are you just trying to get some money out of this?" [break][break] The thought was assumptive at best, though his tone was a bit more surprised and confused than actually angry. Even with a temper like Koto's, it was hard to be mad when you knew you should have expected this sort of thing. Were he any less thrown off his guard, had he perhaps had less to drink, was this not the third surprise turn of evening--hell, the last hour--he may have managed to think more logically about the situation, about the fact that Eden was being so forthright, had been flirtatious without ever asking for anything from him. Hell, he'd even tried to pay for his own drink; surely that was indication enough that he wasn't as focused on Masakoto's money than, hell, half the socialites he interacted with at these events. [break][break] But he, unfortunately, wasn't thinking straight, and so as much as it hurt to do, to protect himself if nothing else, he pulled that hand away, indigo gaze trained on those stunning sapphires, trying to figure out what the hell was going on as he gripped at the back of that bench.
"Thank you Koto..." [break][break] Oh yes, Eden's lips wrapping around his name like that was going to be one hell of an issue. Just that simple murmur sent a traitorous shiver down his spine, Koto grateful his companion had started moving and, hopefully, managed to miss the way his teeth subtly dug into his lower lip. He watched for a moment before moving, allowing Eden to keep that distance between them, though even as he started off from the bar his gaze continued perusing all too dangerous places of observation; the curve of Eden's neck, the sway of his hips, the damnable smooth of that revealed calf. [break][break] He was glad he had the wherewithal at the very least to watch where his feet were going, careful to avoid tripping over himself as he followed Eden's lead and headed to the balcony. He avoided as much eye contact as possible, even as he tried not to make his appreciative gaze on the other's form too obvious, distracting himself with further sips at that amber liquor, letting it warm his system and justify his darkened cheeks. [break][break] Nothing's going to happen... Nothing's going to happen... You're going to behave yourself... Nothing's going to happen... [break][break] Repeated over and over again in his head, the words like some panicked mantra even as he so easily slipped into a position to contradict them. For as much as he wanted this to lead to something, the scandal of it as enticing as the man involved, he still was in enough control of himself to understand why it shouldn't. He just had to stay in control of himself and his impulses and not let it go too far... [break][break] "O-Of course," he murmured to that first thank you, avoiding sputtering anything too flirtatious or noteworthy. He cleared in throat, not a particular fan of that stuttered declaration, and followed the other's movements. [break][break] He told himself to sit at an appropriate distance, he really did, but a million excuses for why he should sit so close circled his mind--it was cold, they were alone, Eden seemed interested, he wanted to, etc.--resulting in that less-than-subtle way their legs smooth against one another. His arm, too, decided to work against his more responsible inclinations, draping across the back of that bench so that his hand rested beside his companion, his fingertips ghosting the other's shoulder. There was a moment of hesitation in which he contemplated tugging that touch away, but some bullshit excuse about how much more awkward that would be kept him lingering. [break][break] "I'm glad you like it," he replied, the flash of some authentic smile across his features before it was hidden behind that whiskey tumbler once more, the sting of the expensive liquor keeping him grounded. As he pulled it from his lips, eyes trailing far more openly along the length of that black-clad form, he, perhaps more out of nerves and grasping at something to pull that lilt of endearing laughter from Eden again, teased "So how much did Nobuhisa have to pay you to get you into that?" A moment, brief, filled with some faint bit of awkward laughter on Koto's part, and he hastily added, "Not that I'm complaining; you wear it remarkably well. I just could have avoided looking like an idiot earlier if you'd come in something a bit more traditional."
Oh now this was dangerous. That lighthearted giggle drifting from Eden's lips was far too tantalizing a sound for Koto to not turn a matching shade of crimson. His mind was already traitorously scouring for ideas on how to get that sound out of him again, especially if he could manage to get that tint to return to his cheeks. Flushed was a far too endearing look for the young man. [break][break] "I-I'm not on your arm so...I feel bad." [break][break] Ah, yes, there was that sobering reminder, the entertainment in that flirtatious exchange chilled by the words. Eden wasn't his, wasn't there for him. Hell, worse yet, he was there for someone else, someone Koto really, truly couldn't risk pissing off, not when he and Sudohara were so close to sealing that deal. Doesn't mean you can't look... his thoughts interjected, perhaps spurred by that demure expression Eden bore as he glanced away. Or touch... That one was, without a doubt, inspired by the feel of those fingers trailing his skin. A shiver ran down his spine, his tongue slipping out to wet his suddenly dry lips. His mind, split down the middle, screamed. He wanted to reach out, to solidify that ghost of a touch, in the same moment he knew that would be one of the biggest mistakes of his career. [break][break] "You're welcome..." he murmured in return, his voice returning to that quiet, intimate tone, his susceptibility to each of those pretty lures so blatantly obvious. His hand even twitched when that touch was pulled away, some beginning to a grasp that never completed, Koto attempting to cover the move by lifting running those digits back through that fluff of ginger. [break][break] As Eden glanced away, mercifully giving him a moment to compose himself after that all-too-enticing moment of affection, Koto couldn't help but wish he had down twice the amount of drinks. If he was blitzed, he could justify that attraction, could justify acting on it, could justify ruining the deal with Nobuhisa. It wasn't a perfect out, but it was at least a more forgivable one than him just being a shitty human being. Eden was off limits, was not allowed for a plethora of different reasons. [break][break] If only that didn't make him all the more tempting. [break][break] "M-Masakoto I may step out for some fresh air once our drinks come...if you'd like to join me I certainly wouldn't mind; crowds make me a bit anxious." [break][break] He knew. Koto wasn't an idiot. For as much as he hated the subtle undercurrents of social interactions, he'd spent his life surrounded by the socialites of Japan and the world alike. He wasn't the best at navigating those undercurrents, but he wasn't completely oblivious to them. And he'd been approached by enough high-society women at these functions to know the subtleties that went with sneaking away. [break][break] Just because you go with him doesn't mean anything is going to happen. [break][break] He knew it was dangerous, knew that saying yes in and of itself could mean him kissing that deal goodbye, knew that he'd have to try especially hard to keep himself away from this endearing man when other's weren't looking, knew that he'd have to do a hell of a lot to try and fix whatever mess was brought on by disappearing with Nobuhisa's date, even if it was under the pretense of something innocent. He knew all of this... But ignorance was bliss, even if it was forced, right? [break][break] "I'd love to..." [break][break] That same quiet tone, like they were murmuring secrets back and forth, like they were in their own little world, not sequestered away at the bar of that grand ballroom. [break][break] "...Eden." [break][break] As if on cue, the bartender returned. Koto turned, nodding graciously as he grabbed both of the offered drinks from him. There was a knowing light in the man's eye that sent a spark of worry down Koto's spine, but he brushed it off as he turned to hand Eden his drink. He kept his eye on that pretty visage as he took his first sip from that refreshed glass, gaze lingering as he gestured for Eden to lead the way. [break][break] "After you," he murmured, a nervous edge to his tone, but nothing nearly strong enough to send him back to Sudohara's side. "And just Koto is fine."
