Author: Andy-chan (antimiya88 )

dani_mathoz

Part 1
 

“You mean this was not a joke?!”

Jun smiled widely. “You really wish it was, don’t you, Nino?!”

“It’s just that I believed you and Mr. Schedule weren’t ... let’s say… at the best terms with each other and now, you tell me that it was him who proposed your name to the big boss for the promotion!”

“Someone seems to appreciate my capabilities but…” Jun frowned. “…why do you say you believed that Sakurai and I were at bad terms?”

“I didn’t say bad…  I said not the best; there’s a difference!” Nino rolled his eyes when he saw how Jun was looking at him. “C’mon now, Jun! You must admit that both, you’re at least weird whenever you are in the same room! You will pull out your greatest don’t-dare-to-come-and-critisize-me-because-I-know-everything-is-perfect face while his is more like so-you-think-you-are-better-than-me! Was he that awful during your training period? I mean… I wouldn’t be exactly surprised considering how you both are control freaks…!”

Jun muffled a laugh. “I didn’t know I made a face that requires a sentence to be described!”

“I could shorten it to diva face but then…” Nino caught the way Jun’s eyes had narrowed “…you’d look at me like you do at the moment…”

“Whatever…” Jun mumbled and sipped some of his coffee.

“Even if it’s not like that, don’t tell me that there’s nothing going on between you and Mr. Schedule because I won’t believe you!” Nino noticed how the other cleared his throat avoiding his gaze. It was then that his mind was as if struck by lightning. He moved closer to his coworker and friend, a mischievous smile appearing on his face. “Don’t tell me it’s something else…” his tone immediately matching with his smile that got wider. “Oh my God! Did he try to hit on you during your training period?” when Jun said nothing Nino burst into laughs. “Who would have thought?! But then… he’s that devoted to his job that I doubt if he ever has the time for romance or even for some relief…!”

Jun sighed. “I highly doubt, Nino, even if it is as you say, that Sakurai would risk his job and his career just for… release… as you say!”

“Hmm…” Nino mumbled skeptical his eyes locked on his friend’s face. “I know you’re still hiding something from me! I know there’s something, Jun, like you know you can’t really escape…” he leaned closer looking at the other with his best puppy eyes. “So, please tell me…!”

Jun turned his gaze to his side sighing deeper. He knew the other meant everything he said. He wouldn’t escape unless he talked. “Ok! Ok! I admit I do feel a bit awkward around him but it has nothing to do with the job here.”

“Ha! I was right!” Nino said out loud as he clapped his hands.

“How where you right exactly?!”

“That you two have history! I still remember how you both had frozen when you first stepped into the office but I needed your confirmation. Till now I had a theory, now I have proof!”

“It’s just that we’ve known each other from school, Nino.” Jun said in a lower voice and sipped some more of his coffee.

“School?!” Nino exclaimed with eyes that were sparkling from curiosity. “Don’t tell me that…?! Oh my God! I need all the details… especially the juicy ones… I honestly can’t picture him finding interest in something else than his excel files and food! Was he your first or… don’t tell me that you were his first?!” Jun was left with his mouth agape not in position to utter a single word. Nino’s eyes glimmered triumphantly. “Of course, that would be it! We’re talking about someone who would compete against all the geeks and still win the first prize!”

Jun cleared his throat, avoiding the other’s stare. “It’s… not like that...”

“Yeah, right! It’s ok! I swear I won’t say anything!”

“It really wasn’t like that… more like… a one-sided thing…” Jun whispered, feeling his cheeks getting hotter.

 Nino’s eyes bulged. “You… So, he was your school crush…?! Did you have a thing for chipmunks?” he mumbled trying to muffle the laugh that was threatening to escape from the back of his throat before he turned on his side to look at his co-worker and friend staring back at him with a raised eyebrow. “No offense… to your teenage taste!”

Jun muffled a laugh. “He was a geek… but he was a handsome one!”

Nino drank more of his coffee as he let his back fall more on the sofa. “Well, I don’t know about handsome but I must admit that he does have a nice ass; round and firm!”

“Nino!” Jun said trying – not so successfully – not to burst into laughs. “I thought you only laid your eyes on the graphic designer’s cute little butt…!”

Nino sighed while his eyes closed and his lips curved into the creepiest smile Jun had ever witnessed. He was sure the other was visualizing that very butt. “Oh-chan’s butt is the best… I can tell that it fits perfectly in my hands… as if cut and made just for me…”

“Please, come back to Earth… You can imagine over your crush’s butt when you’re on your own!”

Nino cleared his throat and sipped some of his coffee before he continued talking again. “Just because Oh-chan’s butt is my priority, that doesn’t mean that I am blind! I’ve checked all the butts that wander around at the office! So, tell me!” he turned a bit on his right. “Did you actually do something with your Sakurai-senpai?”

Jun muffled a laugh. “Nothing your dirty mind might be imagining at the moment.”

“So, you want to tell me that you didn’t even try to show your admiration, confess?”

“I did confess…” Jun said in a tiny voice.

“And?!”

“He muttered a thank you and left. I guess he wasn’t really into me. Though, I have to admit that I wasn’t at my best era back then.”

“You want to tell me that there was an era when the one and only Matsumoto Jun was an awkward teenager?!” Nino asked curiously. “I need to see it!”

“Some other day.” Jun mumbled awkwardly.

Nino pouted for a few seconds but resumed the conversation. “Ok. You confessed. He rejected you. You were both teenagers. It’s been years since then… Why are you this awkward?”

“I… well… right after his graduation ceremony I…” Jun muttered with even more difficulty.

“You…?” Nino leaned closer.

“Kissed him…” Jun whispered and saw the way Nino’s eyes bulged from surprise. The latter was about to open his mouth when Jun raised his hand to stop him and continued. “On the cheek but a couple of his friends saw it and mocked… He avoided me ever since… We lived pretty close, you see. In the same neighborhood.”

“Ts. Ts. This guy didn’t really know to exploit situations! If it were me, you’d be in my bed that very same night!”

“You wished!”

“Whatever!” Nino mumbled and left his cup of coffee on the small table in front of them. “At least, he’s learning!”

“Eh?”

Nino turned to Jun grabbing both his shoulders. “Maybe he wants to win you over, now, that he saw what he lost!”

“Or simply, recognized my strategic capabilities. Besides this story, if I can even call it a story, belongs to the past!”

“Are you sure?”

“I’ll disappoint you, I know… but yes.”

“Pity… It would be fun to witness a forbidden office romance flourish!”

“Nino…” Jun said, amused. “Why don’t you live it yourself, then? I know like I’m sure you know it, too, that you don’t go unnoticed in his eyes. I’ve caught him tens of times staring at you when he thinks no one sees him. If you try a bit harder, you’ll get what you want.”

“I know. I’m already in phase no 2!”

Jun raised his eyebrow. “Which is?”

“Small random touches… right on his cute little butt!” Nino said with a wide smirk, making Jun burst into loud laughs.

“Molester!”

“Not when the second party enjoys it!”

Jun shook his head. “I’ll miss working with you!”

“Of course, you will.” Nino said with a small pout. “But don’t think that you’ll get rid of me just because you move two floors above. There’s always the lunch break, mister!”

“I want you to keep me informed about how things evolve between you and that Ohno Satoshi.”

“I know and I will!” Nino winked at him and both fell into loud laughs. “So, are we ordering pizza or hamburgers?” Jun raised his eyebrow. “What?” Nino asked innocently. “You invited me to your apartment to tell me that you got the promotion you died for and you think I’ll let you escape with a mere cup of coffee?! So, tell me, pizza or hamburgers? We have to celebrate it!”

Jun looked at his friend but said nothing. Shaking his head once again he stood up, took the empty cups to the kitchen and took his phone in hands.

“I guess hamburgers would be the best choice, don’t you agree?”

“That’s why I love you, Jun!”

---

Two hours later, after having eaten two cheeseburgers, a large ball of French fries and drunk three cans of beer, Jun was lying on his bed, staring at the white ceiling above him. He couldn’t believe it that his dream was brought to life. He wasn’t an assistant any longer but an executive director. A wide smile was appearing on his face. He could finally take things into his hands and propose… discuss his ideas… not simply execute orders.

It was already late but his eyes insisted on being wide open. He was way too excited to sleep. Tomorrow, he’d start working at his new post. He stayed a couple more minutes on his bed rolling around before, finally, giving up.

“Screw it… I’ll work a bit on the plan.”

It was 2 am when he finally, got in his bed. He was tired but happy. He was about to show everyone what he was worth.

***

“Damn it!” Jun cursed under his breath when he realized there was no filter in the coffee machine. He never was a morning person and a four-hour sleep wasn’t helping the situation much. He was already anxious about the meeting and things weren’t starting very well.

“I see that your mood still isn’t the best in the mornings…” a familiar voice was heard behind him, making him sigh.

“So, now that we’re on the same floor, you decided to finally come and speak to me?” he asked without looking at the man behind him.

“I just came to see, if you needed any piece of advice.” The other replied in a calm voice. It had always been like this. Jun could never guess what the other was feeling or thinking. He was an expert at raising up an invisible wall.

“No need for that, Sakurai-san. Everything’s done according to plan.” Jun said as he poured coffee in his mug.

“I’m aware of your planning and organizing capabilities, Matsumoto-san. I wouldn’t have proposed your name to Yasuda-san otherwise.”

Jun, who in the meantime had sipped some of his coffee, looked at the other who was standing a few meters away. “Thank you. I didn’t expect that you’d-”

“What?” the other asked with a raised eyebrow. “That I wouldn’t be objective at my job because of something that took place more than a decade before between us? I may be many things but I know how to evaluate.”

“You haven’t changed. Still strict but fair.” Jun mumbled before he could hold himself back.

“You, on the other hand, have. You’re not like that intimidated little teenager that I remember.”

Jun let out a small laugh. “You’re also still blunt.”

The other cleared his throat before he took the coffee machine into his hands and poured some into his empty cup. “Bluntness doesn’t necessarily mean offensiveness.”

“Of course, not.” Jun replied and sighed. There was a weird silence filling up the air around them. Jun knew what the other expected from him and since they’d work next to each other from now on, he knew he had to swallow his pride. “Look, I never had the chance to speak to you since your graduation but I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have acted the way I did.”

The older man turned his gaze towards Jun muffling a laugh. “You think I’m still mad at you or something?”

“You’re not…?”

“No. I’m at fault, as well. I wasn’t exactly polite myself…”

“So…?”

“So?” Sho repeated the question.

“Why were you like this during my training period at the company?”

“I tend to push people to their limits when I see potential and you, Matsumoto-san, have a lot. If I hadn’t done so, then you wouldn’t have been pissed off, neither this motivated to prove me wrong. Thanks to me, here you are, having been promoted only twelve months after your recruitment!”

“So, you tell me I should be grateful to you?!”

“First, to yourself. Then, to me.” The other replied with a wide smile. “See you at the meeting, Matsumoto-san.”

Jun rolled his eyes as soon as he saw the other turning around to head to his office. See you at the meeting, Sakurai-san.

---

It was about time to go to the central meeting room. It would be his first time to present his project in front of the CEO and the chief executive board members. At the end of the week he had to travel to Hokkaido for one of the most important deals of the latest years. He had to make sure his proposal was more competitive than the one from their major rival company.

His heart was at the verge of popping out of his chest when he entered the room. The only familiar face was that of Sakurai and surprisingly it was an encouraging one. He was asked to present his plan, ideas of execution and probable solutions to any upcoming difficulties. The stress and insecurity gave way to excitement.

One hour later, he was receiving the CEO’s congratulations. His first big test was successful. Now, what was left was the deal itself.

“You’ll be fine.”

He looked up and saw Sakurai standing by his side. Jun took all his papers into his hands and stood up from the chair. There was only them that were left in the meeting room.

“The CEO isn’t a person who easily gets satisfied and you managed to do it. You’re persistent and perfectionist.”

“There’s always a chance not to be successful in the end.”

“You already have Yasuda-san’s approval. Even if we don’t get the deal, the mistake won’t only lay on your shoulders… remember that.”

Jun sighed as he nodded. Sakurai was right. He had to remain calm. He could do it.

***

“Welcome on board, Sir.” the young hostess welcomed him as he stepped into the plane. He only smiled. It was only 7 o’clock and had only managed to drink a coffee at the airport. Though, even at this state, he couldn’t help but stare around him in owe. He had traveled before by plane but never in the business class.

The seat was spacious and comfortable. I could get used to this comfort… He thought slightly amused as he turned his gaze out of the window. He was still feeling sleepy but at least, in the business class, he didn’t need to worry about who would be next to him… Only people who didn’t care about money would pay such an amount for a domestic flight that lasted less than two hours. Yes… he could definitely get used to this… A satisfied smile appeared on his face as his eyes remained locked on the view the small window was offering to him.

He could hear people nearby him but didn’t pay attention. I will be able to focus on the presentation! There were a couple of things that needed his attention and in such a quiet environment it would be the best. He had to take advantage of everything and this flight seemed to be the perfect chance… or so he thought… He was still lost thoughts when a loud, husky voice reached his ears.

“How can a day not start well when you meet such bright smiles?! Good morning, my beautiful ladies!” Soft giggles were heard afterwards, clearly those of the flight attendants.

Jun sighed. There was a tone of openness in the stranger’s voice that Jun dared to say was really close at the verge of calling it flirtation. I forgot that there are other types of tiring passengers that could come across in the business class! Lewd rich men who think that just because they have money they can just throw themselves to everyone! He turned his head with a raised eyebrow to see who this womanizer was. His eyes, though, didn’t meet a middle-aged man like he expected but someone more or less his age. His mouth fell agape. It wasn’t only the stranger’s age that took Jun by surprise. Whoever this man was, he was undoubtedly the most handsome Jun had ever seen in his life. His lips were full and pouty, his moles close to those heart-shaped lips were giving him a natural sexiness that could not pass unnoticed while his eyes were big and round.  What really captured Jun’s attention, though, was nothing else but his smile… his smile was the brightest he had ever seen…

Jun felt his heart skipping a beat and he was sure it wasn’t out of disgust or anxiety… The opposite; he felt intoxicated… intrigued. The other had a certain air of confidence, even a certain trace of arrogance which in a strange way, made him see a part of himself reflect in him… Certainly, the high spirits the man seemed to have this early in the morning was completely irrelevant but the certainty, this stranger was emitting, was something Jun could definitely relate to…

He couldn’t help but stare when the man placed his luggage in the locker above his pair of seats. The white, fluffy sweater he was wearing moved slightly above his pair of jeans revealing a hint of skin. It seemed smooth…

Jun was lost in his thoughts, conquered by the stranger that at the moment was standing close to him, when he heard the very same breathy voice again. “Excuse me…, Sir?” Jun found himself thinking that it sounded nicer now that he could hear it from this close. “Sir? Are you listening?”

It was then that he looked straight into the other’s eyes blinking dumbfounded when he realized that the very same man was talking to him.

“My seat is next to yours…” the stranger said with a hint of smile, making Jun’s heart skip a second beat that morning. He looked at his side and noticed that he had left his hand bag on the seat next to him. He quickly hurried to take it, mumbling an apology as he placed it under his front seat.

“No! No need to worry about it!” the other replied, the smile never leaving his face. “It’s really alright! It’s not even 7:30 yet!”

“Well, the truth is that I’m not a morning person…” Jun mumbled, still his heart pounding faster.

“Yeah… I noticed!” the beautiful stranger said in a lower voice.

“Eh?” Jun looked at him with a small frown on his forehead. Was he that obvious? And if he was, why didn’t he like that?

“It’s just that I heard you keeping mumbling things while we were waiting at the gate… I happened to stand right behind you in line…”

Jun felt his face turning red. He did have the bad habit of mumbling things when he wasn’t in the best mood. In mornings, everything and everyone were at fault. Great! I made the worst first impression I could!

“I’m sorry…”

“To be honest, I found it rather cute…!”  Jun had expected many things but never that kind of answer. Cute?! “Like right at this moment… you look cute when you blush!” the other said smiling wider and threw him a quick wink.

Jun cleared his throat awkwardly when he heard the hostess asking them politely, if they wanted to drink a glass of water or juice before the take-off.

“Orange juice for me, please…” he heard the other saying before he asked for a glass of water for himself.

“You’re going to Sapporo for business?” the other asked casually as he sipped some of his juice.

There were no more comments like the last ones and Jun was grateful for that. His heart was still jumping funnily in his chest but now, had more control over the situation.

“Yes.” Jun replied before he drank half of his water. “I guess the suit betrayed it, right?” he let out a small laugh surprising himself. It was the first time he had laughed this early in the morning.

The other mirrored him, letting out a quite loud yet adorable, to Jun’s ears, laugh. “I kind of admire you. I happen to also go there for business but there’s no way I can wear a suit when I travel...”

“I guess for me… it’s because it helps me get in the mood…”

“Serious and focused… I’m sure you’re successful… Combined with your strong features and undoubtedly charming looks, I bet there’s no one to turn down anything you propose to them…!”

Jun couldn’t help but gulp at hearing the words the other had chosen.

“So, you’re implying that I may be good at my work just because of my looks?”

The other smirked as he turned to his side to look Jun straight into his eyes. “You seem to be someone focused… your looks though are a plus… a very charming plus! I mean I highly doubt I, myself, could deny you anything if I had these intense eyes of yours looking at me the way they are, now… People have a weakness for beauty, especially when this very last is combined with other charms… At least, I do…”

Jun was left staring at the other with a blank mind. There was no doubt about it; the other was flirting with him and not in a rather subtly way. If it was anyone else, Jun would have made sure to shut them up but when it came to this particular man, he found himself enjoying the attention he was getting… Because it was obvious that the other did find him interesting. He had said it, hadn’t he? He had already noticed him from the queue…

“You should allow me to doubt your skills at work, then…” he replied smiling when he caught the way the other’s lips curved.

“Hmmm… Maybe…” Jun felt a shiver running down his spine when he felt the other’s hot breath landing close to his ear. “but I usually have a good intuition on people…”

Jun turned and met the other’s face looking at him with a hint of smile and an enigmatic gaze. Probably for the first time in his life, he felt as if he were under a spell. He hadn’t realized the plane had already lifted from the ground. All that mattered at that moment were the way those eyes were looking into his. The bad mood had disappeared. He didn’t care about having woken up this early anymore, nor whether being anxious about his presentation. It was as if the other had the power to make him forget about the reason he was in that plane… because all that mattered was the way his eyes were staring at him.

Hesitantly, he turned his gaze to the window. He was sure that if he looked at the beautiful stranger any longer, would probably do something he would later regret. He could feel his heart beating in the fastest pace he ever remembered it to. He was no longer a teenager… He frowned at his own thoughts. Even during the time, he had that stupid crush on Sakurai, his heart didn’t beat this painfully in his chest, nor his mouth got this dry. He couldn’t even move, knowing that only a few centimeters away from him there was this particular someone.

He hadn’t even realized that they were about to reach their destination, if it wasn’t for the hostess that asked him to sit properly for landing. For an instant, he dared to throw a quick glance to his right. The other had his eyes closed. Jun was sure that he wasn’t sleeping though. He could see the rhythm his chest was moving up and down… Probably, he’s just concentrating for the landing… he thought and let his eyes wander on the face that had captured him and looked so peaceful at the moment. If Jun could use only one word to describe him that would be beautiful.  From that angle, he was even more attractive… Especially those slightly parted lips, that looked so full and so red, were asking him to lean closer… to taste them… Jun turned his gaze away, gulping and taking a deep breath in an attempt to clear his mind. What was wrong with him?! He couldn’t name what he was experiencing at the moment and if he wanted to be honest with himself, he was too afraid to do so, anyway. He could feel his face hotter than before, even the tie knot felt more suffocating than usual. His whole body was as if set on fire… and all that because of a flirtatious, undoubtedly extremely handsome stranger that happened to sit next to him on the plane. As the plane touched the ground once again, Nino’s words came to Jun’s mind; “Focusing this much on work will have side effects…” His friend had warned him in a teasing way but Jun could now admit that he had been 100% right.

“It was a pleasant fight…” the man next to him said and sighed in a satisfied way that made Jun gulp once again.

He chose to say nothing. He didn’t trust his own voice at the moment. Whatever these turbulent feelings in him was, he had to gain control over it and fight it. He hadn’t reached Hokkaido for fun but work and the latter wasn’t the one that should capture his whole attention at the moment. He was almost sure his ears caught a small chuckle. Instead of seeking more, he said nothing and remained seated till the other had taken his luggage from above their seats and was ready to walk away.

“Good luck, today!”

It was then that Jun looked up and saw the other sending him a rather playful wink. Gladly, he saw the other advancing on the corridor. He took his own luggage and hurried off the plane. In three hours, he had to be at the company for the presentation.

“I guess I’ll revise everything fast at the hotel.”

He grabbed a taxi and in less than forty minutes he found himself in the small single room that was booked for him. As he opened all the documents and started scanning them down, making mental notes on the important details, he found himself forgetting his earlier weird, admittedly, encounter. One hour later, he could smile, clearly satisfied. There was no way he would not get this.

***

“Please, follow me, Matsumoto-san.”

Jun did, as asked, following the CEO’s PA to the meeting room. He was holding his leather bag and despite the nerves that had made his stomach cramp, he was sure he was emitting a confidence. That had always been one of his winning cards. He never let his emotions be reflected on his eyes… at least, when it came down to business. The door opened and revealed to him a man in his early sixties, the CEO, and a younger one, probably his consultant or lawyer.

“Matsumoto-san. It’s a pleasure.” Jun bowed and advanced to the two men offering them his hand. “We will start with you. Please, take a seat next to Aiba-san.”

Jun bowed once again and turned to sit where he was appointed to but his legs froze in an instant. The grip on his bag became tighter, his eyes were bulging while his mind was trying to work all the information it was receiving at the moment. In front of him, there was a young man seated… his rival… the one he had to surpass with his presentation and proposition. Why you?! He could see the other man’s lips curved into a hint of smile… the very same hint he had observed for the last time a few hours ago… in the plane…

“Matsumoto-san. Please, be prepared…”

Jun quickly nodded and tried to stay focused. He took out the documents and prepared the slide show as fast as possible. His hands were shaking… he could feel the stranger’s… no… Aiba Masaki’s, according to his business card, eyes follow his every move, making it even harder for him not to show any trace of nervousness. Once he was ready, he took a deep breath and started speaking. The first couple of words had sounded a bit shaky but quickly, Jun found his rhythm, both his voice tone and body language emitting confidence and reassurance; both necessary for a successful proposition. During the fifteen minutes of his presentation, Jun didn’t throw a single glance towards the young man. He knew that it would make him lose his concentration…

The shivers he felt when he sat down next to him once he was finally done were the proof that the other, whoever he was, had an impact on him… a power over him, attracting him like a magnet.

“I had told you I have a good intuition…” suddenly a whisper landed on his ear. “You were mesmerizing… especially when you rolled your shirt sleeves and continued with showing on the board.” Jun didn’t dare to turn his head. Had the other no realization of their surroundings? What if the men across the round table listened to him? “The way that you sweat at this very moment proves that you’re serious about your work… Probably a bit too much…!”

“Aiba-san, your turn. Please…”

Jun saw the other getting up from his seat and walking to the center of the room. Soon, he was left staring at the other. He was now wearing a dark blue suit that looked as if it was tailored on his measures. He looked elegant… and if it was possible, even more attractive than he had earlier that morning. His voice was serious… This time there was no trace of flirtation or any other shade of teaser. On the contrary, there was a certain passion in his eyes that remained professional and made everyone pay attention. Jun couldn’t deny it… he was convincing… a lot more than himself.

Jun was seeing closely his body language. He could tell this Aiba Masaki was naturally relaxed… there was an optimistic aura around him… something that Jun was lacking at. He was always tensed… worried… focused on perfection… even if deep inside he knew such thing as perfection didn’t exist in this world.

How can you do it? He wondered when he saw him coming back to the seat provided for him by Jun’s side. There was a smile that radiated assurance of success and satisfaction. If it was Jun, he’d feel the same… he knew he’d feel the same. This time there was no attempt of whisper anywhere close to his ears.

“I must admit that both presentations offered us the chance to explore different approaches with interesting insights. Matsumoto-san, Aiba-san, congratulations to you both.”

Jun bowed his head and with the corner of his eye saw that the other did the same thing. “You, Matsumoto-san, despite the lack of experience, which I admit, at first, was seen with curiosity, showed an ambitious plan not out of the limits of achievable goals. Independently of our decision, concerning this project, you certainly have caught my attention. As for you, Aiba-san, once again, you managed to gain our interest. You never miss to give a fresh, optimistic dimension. I can assure you it will be a tough decision, as both presentations were equally strong. We will study each case carefully and will announce our final decision tomorrow afternoon at our scheduled appointment. We wish you a pleasant rest of your evening.”

Jun lowered his head, his eyes staring blankly at his papers. Obviously, this Aiba Masaki had more experience and if he judged correctly from the CEO’s words, it wouldn’t be the first time they’d worked with his company or him, personally. The corner of his lips curved into a bitter smile. He didn’t need to wait until the next day to know that he had lost.

Without saying anything he gathered his papers and after expressing his appreciation to the others left the room. He needed air. He hurried to the elevator, not knowing if he wanted to be close to his rival anymore that day. His heart was beating fast but this time it wasn’t because of excitement or even rush… it was because of sadness and defeat… His right hand clenched into a fist. He had spent hours and hours believing that his plan, his presentation had no weak points but it was proved that it wasn’t enough; he hadn’t been strong enough to take the job… To him, the fact that he had not much experience as the CEO mentioned earlier little did not matter. His capability should have been independent from that… yet he was anxious, stressed while the other seemed relaxed, certain about everything.

Just when the elevator doors made the characteristic sound signaling that they had reached his floor, Jun heard the now-familiar husky voice.

“Matsumoto-san! Why did you escape from the meeting office?” Jun gasped. This time the other didn’t sound triumphant or at least, flirtatious. On the contrary, he sounded scolding and critical. He was pushed into the elevator before he could react, and turned around so that he could meet the other’s face. “Why did you do that?”

Jun was left speechless. Was it the lack of sleep? His nerves? The emotions and feelings of defeat that were now ghosting inside him? Was it Aiba Masaki’s closeness? His discreet but intoxicating cologne? Everything combined? He wasn’t sure but at that moment, his mind wasn’t cooperating.

“Why do you have already decided for them?” the other continued in the same tone.

“Please…”

“You may not believe it but you were extremely good at your presentation. There wasn’t a single moment that they averted their eyes from you.”

Jun couldn’t believe his ears. Was the other trying to cheer him up because he knew he already gotten the deal?

“What are you trying to achieve? You’ve got it. End of sto-”

“I haven’t. We will find out tomorrow. And what I try to do isn’t to mock you or cheer you up from the winner’s position, as you think at the moment, Matsumoto-san.” Jun saw him chuckle when he realized how he was staring at him. “I have told you that I have a good intuition with people but you specifically are easy to read.”

Jun raised his eyebrow. What did the other want from him? “Can you please leave me alone?” he repressed the button with the number 0 as if that made the elevator move faster.

“Is it that you hate to lose so much or that you feel uncomfortable with me?” the other’s voice had turned lower, huskier… giving Jun goosebumps. He could only gulp. Aiba had moved closer, his arm pressing directly on his left, leaving no room between them, as his hot breath landing directly to Jun’s ear.

“Neither…” he mumbled in a whisper. He was afraid that there would be a tremble that would betray his nervousness… something he wasn’t willing to admit.

“Pity…” the other said moving back to his previous spot “…because I thought I hadn’t passed unnoticed from you this morning…” Jun’s eyes bulged, looking directly at the other who had his trademark smirk. “I only know because I couldn’t let you pass unnoticed… and I’m not talking only about your looks like you’ve already accused me.” The doors opened revealing the main entrance of the building at the back. “If there’s something that holds you back” Aiba said as he stepped out of the elevator “that would be the fact that you are way too serious about your job. Try to relax… I’m sure if you do, you’ll never feel that you’ve lost, Matsumoto-san… ever again…!”

Jun didn’t move. Instead, he watched the slim figure of the other man fading away as he walked opposite him towards the exit. He didn’t notice that the doors of the elevator were closing once again. It was only when he saw his reflection on them that realized he had to get out.

He walked in a fast pace, choosing to go back to his hotel on foot. It wasn’t very cold and he needed time to clear his mind up. He placed his free hand into his pocket, surprised to find a small folded note inside.

If Interested in getting your mind away from business,

come to “Arashi” club (33 Hinata Str.) by 22:00!

Just say you’re my acquaintance!

Hope to see you!

Aiba Masaki

Jun kept looking at the note for several minutes. It was obvious that this Aiba Masaki wouldn’t let any chance pass by without exploiting it. He was determined… just like he was during his presentation. Only that his determination didn’t translate into stress or anxiety but motivation, energy. “Hope to see you…” Jun mumbled under his breath, finding his heart beating faster at the sound of these four words. There was no doubt that Aiba Masaki had caught his interest from the very first moment he casted his eyes on him. Was it worth the risk? He frowned. What risk? Looking at the darkening sky, he realized that the stressing situations were over; the presentations were over. What was done, was done, both having played in a fair way. There was no risk at this… neither was there conflict of interest. The decision was up to the company’s CEO… There was no rule, even unwritten, forbidding him to go to a drink with the man who proved to be his rival. That was a lost case, anyway…

He closed his eyes and sighed deeply. Aiba Masaki’s face came back to his mind, his voice, his warmth… his words… He hated to be read this well. He hated to have lost. He hated to have his weaknesses all visible but he also hated to lie to himself. He indeed was too serious… Actually, it had been a while since he had the chance to relax and have fun. He had missed those nights… Since he got his current job, he had thrown himself to work, focused only on achieving the best he could. Should he allow this? Should he accept Aiba Masaki’s invitation?

The questions were building inside his mind. Jun crumpled the note but didn’t throw it in the first bin he found on his way to his hotel. Instead, he put it back to his pocket. He needed time to think… or more correctly to accept the fact that he had already decided to go and meet with him. He looked around and quickly spotted a soba restaurant. Perhaps, he could eat something since he had passed the day with three cups of coffee and one toast before he reached his hotel and had a nice warm shower. He needed to relax and maybe prepare a first draft for the report he was supposed to send to Sakurai tomorrow.

Three hours later, he was half-sitting, half-lying on the small sofa that existed in his room, his eyes locked on the white and red car lights from the traffic as it was seen from the window of his room. He had opened a beer can and sipped some of its content as the realization hit him. When was it the last time he had had some real fun? He couldn’t even remember… The other was right… he may have been too serious… he had to let go… he needed to let go, even if it was for only one night. He closed his eyes and thought of the other… He was attracted to him; there was no doubt about that but now, that he could think things with a much clearer mind, he could tell that the other was equally attracted to him. Suddenly, it felt as if his whole body was set on fire with the desire to stop thinking about everything and just enjoy. At this thought, a playful smirk appeared on his face. Perhaps, I should show him that I’m not only serious…

***

He got out of the taxi, his eyes scanning the area. Arashi was located close to the heart of Sapporo. To Jun’s relief, the club looked decent. He dared to say that it went for the luxurious category. With confident steps, he pulled the door. The place was spacious, with not too low lights and with comfortable mini sofas with tables across the room. There were a couple of pairs of eyes turning to him and he couldn’t help but smile satisfied. He surely wouldn’t pass unnoticed. He had made his choice of clothes carefully. Not that he wore something too eccentric – how could a tight greyish pair of jeans that had a few cuts in front and a black V-neck shirt on top be eccentric? – but he knew that the combination with the pieces of jewelry he had, was giving off a certain aura; that of a sexy, confident man. The opposite from his image as the stressful, moody company worker.

He headed to the bar and sat on one of the barstools from where he had a good view at the dancefloor. A small smirk appeared on his lips just before he turned around to see that the bartender was waiting for his order.

“Sir?”

“A dry martini, please.” he replied in a low voice without mentioning the name he was supposed to.

He had just lit his cigarette when he saw with the corner of his left eye someone sitting right next to him.

“You weren’t clear enough, though. You want it shaken or stirred?”

Jun’s smirk grew bigger as the words were whispered slowly, one by one close to his ear. He blew the smoke out of his mouth without turning around. “I leave that to the bartender’s taste…”

A soft giggle reached his ears with no answer. There were no words exchanged until the cocktail was served in front of him. 

“How did you find out about this place?”

Jun chuckled before he drew another puff from his cigarette. “I heard it from someone and came to see if it’s really worth it…”

“The club… or this someone?” the other continued on the same husky, low tone.

“Hmm… I don’t know…”

“What I didn’t know is that you can be such a tease, Matsumoto-san…!”

Jun smirked before he finally turned to his left and met the big, almond-shaped eyes that had been haunting him since the morning.

“I guess your intuition this time didn’t work as well as you were expecting it…, Aiba-san!”

The other let out a chuckle and finished his drink before he ordered a second one.

“I could tell that you had the potential but couldn’t foresee to what extent that potential of yours would be!”

“So, now that you’ve seen the extent of my potential, as you say, are you satisfied or disappointed?”

The other turned to look straight into Jun’s eyes. “What do you think?” he asked in a whisper, as he leaned closer, making their mouths be only a few centimeters apart.

Jun’s eyes moved from the alluring mouth, that was asking him to be covered by his, upwards to Aiba Masaki’s eyes, glad to see that they were dark, filled with lust. “I think it’s about time you buy me my second drink, Masaki…!” he whispered leaning even closer, making sure his hot breath landed directly on the other’s now-half-parted lips.

“Whatever you want!” Masaki whispered back, his voice slightly trembling.

Jun finished the rest of his martini in one go as the other ordered the same drink as the one he was having. His heart was beating fast and even faster when he realized that behind that flirtatious mask, the other was feeling nervous, the same way he was. It had been a while from the last time he had flirted like this… or more correctly, he couldn’t remember ever flirting like this. He could see them… the sparks in the other man’s eyes… the excitement, the anticipation… as if they were reflecting everything that existed that very moment in a turmoil inside him.

“Scotch?” he asked, trying not to sound very nervous himself. The little game of cat and mouse they played was quite nerve-wracking but Jun wasn’t willing to declare defeat. He had lost the contract; he wouldn’t lose this, as well.

Satisfied, he saw the other smirking as he shook his head negatively. “No. It’s not scotch… although you’re close. It’s a cocktail. B.A.F, if you’ve ever heard of it…!”

Jun muffled a chuckle. “I actually do have heard of it!” he said as he roamed his eyes on the other. “Quite… interesting choice…!”

The other smirked. “Glad you think so…, Jun!”

As the time passed by, the atmosphere was turning hotter. Aiba Masaki was proving to be even more charming. He was outgoing and easy to listen to… he knew what he wanted and how to get it… In many ways, he reminded Jun of himself but through a different perspective.

After around thirty minutes, they had moved to one of the sofas. The flirtatious hints were constantly there but Jun was happy that they were able to discuss many things. He wasn’t someone who easily opened up and participated lively to discussions when he didn’t know the other party very well but there was something in the other that made him feel relaxed, he dared to say… himself…

“It’s getting late…”

Jun sighed when he heard these three words but he knew he couldn’t deny that the other did have a point. It was already 2 am and the next day wasn’t a free one.

“I know…” he couldn’t hide his disappointment, gaining a soft chuckle from the other.

“I don’t want to leave either… but we need to have clear minds tomorrow, Mr. Rival!”

Jun chuckled, as he leaned closer, not caring if their arms were resting against each other. “What we’re doing may not be considered politically correct by our companies…!”

“As long as we being here together has nothing to do with our job, I don’t see a problem… I believe the thought ‘who is this man and who has allowed him to be this hot in his dark gray suit’ when I first saw you at the airport doesn’t hide any ulterior motives… and I believe you staring at me with these beautiful eyes of yours as if I were made out of your favorite candy on the plane also doesn’t hide any ulterior motives!”

Jun gasped. The other was undoubtedly straightforward. “You… are never afraid of words, right?”

“Hiding behind words? Decencies? Yes… but up to a point. What’s the reason of not speaking the truth when it’s not insulting?”

Jun felt his ears buzz. Aiba Masaki was right… again…. Without realizing what he was doing, he leaned closer, bringing his lips on top of the other man’s. They were full against his, full and soft… mesmerizing. He could feel the other’s surprise turning slowly into acceptance. Jun’s hands found Masaki’s shoulders, moving to his neck and resting around it, while Masaki’s got locked around Jun’s slim waist. They pulled each other closer as they started exploring in a savage way each other’s mouths. It felt as suddenly they were allowed to do the one thing they both anticipated probably from the very first second, they casted their eyes on each other.

Tongues were moving together to the fiercest, most feverish dance, sensually exploring the hotness around them. Sucks and nibbles were combined to the already crazy rhythm to make Jun’s mind turn completely blank. It was as if he couldn’t get enough. It was literally breathtaking… addicting…

Jun didn’t know for how long they kissed passionately but he only broke the kiss once he felt his lungs needing air desperately. They were both panting heavily, their cheeks flushed, their bodies hot and their lips bruised…

“You… surprised me… a… gain…” Masaki mumbled with difficulty as he tried to breathe normally.

“Maybe you should accept that your… intuition… isn’t the best…”

Masaki leaned closer, inhaling deeply, as his mouth was almost touching the crook of Jun’s neck. “Maybe you make me incapable of thinking clearly…”

Jun gulped. His body was turning hotter. He wanted to grab the other and lead him back to his hotel room. It wasn’t that he hadn’t thought of it… It could always be a secret adventure of Sapporo… but he realized the more he got to know the other that he didn’t wish for that. He wasn’t attracted to him only physically… there was something in the other that made him attractive in more ways. It was the exact same thing that had made Jun get dressed, take the risk and go to the club… it was the him the other was able to pull out. This night had been the best in years… and he selfishly wanted to treat this night differently…

“You said that someone should speak the truth, right?”

“Yes…” Masaki said moving a bit further, so that he could look at Jun but without unlocking his arms from the latter’s waist.

“There’s nothing I want more right now than passing the night with you… I won’t lie… but in the same time, I don’t want to…”

The other smirked. “I’m happy to hear that… because I don’t want either.”

“You don’t want me or…”

“I don’t want to consider this a one-night stand but a first date. I don’t fuck from the first date.”

Jun narrowed his eyes. He wanted to be sure the other wasn’t simply saying the things he knew he wanted to hear. “And why is that? You who…”

“Because no matter how attractive I find someone physically, I only go on a date with someone I find attractive both physically and mentally. Sex in terms of a relationship comes once the non-physical part is satisfied…”

“Are you always making such a choice of words and explanations?”

“Only when I want to impress…”

Jun smirked. “And I’m someone you want to impress?”

“Why do you think I asked you out, tonight?”

They were about to claim each other’s lips hungrily when Jun cleared his throat and freed himself from Masaki’s long arms. “Like you, I don’t fuck from the first date.” His eyes were though remaining locked on the other’s lips.

“Yes…” Masaki whispered, his stare mirroring Jun’s.

“We should leave…” Jun whispered in a weaker, more trembling voice.

“Yes…” the reply came quickly.

With a heavy sigh from both, they stood up and left without having paid.

“I told you the owner is a good friend of mine! I had fun, tonight.”

Jun smiled. “Me too.” He leaned closer and pecked Masaki’s cheek, as his hand slipped a small note into the pocket of the slightly taller man’s pair of jeans. “Good night, Masaki.”

“Good night…” Masaki replied before they parted ways to go their respective hotels.

There was a light night breeze but to Jun it felt rather soothing. His lips were curved into a wide smile as he walked down the streets.

He had just opened his hotel room door when he felt his phone buzzing.

From: 890235873

You’re sneaky but I love it!

Dream of me, tonight!

Masaki

Jun quickly replied to the other before he fell onto his bed, feeling more alive than ever. Yes… that night, he had made the right decision.

***

“Tell me who are you and what you did to my friend!”

Jun raised his eyebrow to his friend who was sitting in front of him. “Nino…” his tone warning.

“What?!”

“Stop saying stupid things!”

“Ah… so, now I’m saying stupid things huh?! You went to Sapporo. You didn’t get the deal, which -according to you- was the first big opportunity to prove yourself to Sakurai and everyone in the company that you were indeed worth the promotion, and you’re here in this Zen-like apathy as if nothing happened! Ok, you didn’t get scolded or anything but still something is off!”

“So?” Jun asked in the same indifferent tone.

“So, tell me what the hell happened to Jun!” Nino said, getting more impatient. “Because there’s no way I can believe this is you!”

“It is me!”

“If it is you, then something must have happened at the North because the Jun who left Tokyo four days ago was someone who would never accept a loss! At least, a total loss!” Nino narrowed his eyes suspiciously when he caught the way Jun drank the rest of his coffee ready to get up from the table. “Oh my… Don’t tell me that something did happen at Sapporo!”

“I’ve got to go back to work.”

Before Jun had the opportunity to leave, Nino had managed to grip his wrist and keep him seated. “You got laid, didn’t you?”

Jun looked at his friend and tilted his head. “As a matter of fact, no, I didn’t.”

“You hooked up! You must have hooked up!” Nino said a bit louder this time.

Jun was about to tell him to hush when a discreet cough was heard behind him. “Your floor isn’t this one, aren’t I right, Ninomiya? The lunch break is over, if I’m not mistaken.”

Nino gulped. “Sorry, Sakurai-san.” He didn’t move though until he was sure Sakurai was away enough not to hear them.

“Ni-”

“Tonight, you’re coming with me.” Nino cut him off and turned to leave not wanting to get into trouble.

Jun took the now-empty cup and walked to the small kitchen, sighing. He had hoped he could escape from his friend but Nino always had a sharp eye. He couldn’t escape from him, no matter how hard he tried.

Part 2