![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
amnosxmatsujunPairing: Sakurai Sho x Fictional Female (Reader) *see note below
Rating: R for whole series, PG-13 for Ch.4 (suggestive language)
Beta:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
kyraensui & lianne29 (Thank you, ladies!)
Genre: Romance, Drama
Word count: 3,230
Plot: A 33-year-old singleton, Nijishima Kokoro, finds herself at a host club where she meets the club's most popular host, Sakurai Sho. The encounter propels Kokoro to explore a different kind of love as Sho helps Kokoro discover herself.
NOTE: This story reads like a shoujo manga--it is written in a fictitious first-person narrative where the reader is the protagonist. Please proceed with caution if you are uncomfortable with JE members having relationships with fictitious female characters (even if that female is you!).
Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3
Chapter Four: The Second Visit
[*Translator's note: Akatsuki means 'dawn' or 'moment of daybreak']
The night sky was starting to make way for the sun by the time we left the bar. It was almost 5:00AM when we arrived at my suburban apartment.
“It’s this one,” I said, pointing to a relatively new apartment building. I’ve never lived an extravagant life and I was no millionaire, but I did pride myself for being able to take care of myself. Ever since I moved out of Ryota’s place, I was determined to be good to myself, to live a comfortable life.
He looked up the tall edifice, then at me. “All right,” he combed his fingers through his hair. “That’s my cue.” He bowed courteously to bid farewell.
My heart pounded against my chest, a loud march of indecent thoughts thumping loudly again in my head, silencing the quiet, rational mind.
You just spent a whole night with this man.
Let him get some sleep.
Stop thinking about asking him up to your room.
“Wait…” It was all I could say to stop the night from ending.
“Hm?” His eyebrows raised, he waited for me to finish my thought.
I racked my brain for something to say, but clearly, I didn’t think the thought through. As if he knew, he moved closer to me, hands in his pockets.
“Were you thinking about inviting me up to your room?”
The question hit bullseye. Stunned, I was lost for words and an explanation.
“That’s unlike you, isn’t it?”
His second question also hit bullseye. How does he know that about me?
“Sorry, but I can’t do that,” he answered for me. Then, positioning his face only inches away from mine, he looked me straight in the eye and stated, “I don’t date any of my clients.”
Standing back up straight, he waited for me to collect my thoughts. “Good night, Miss Kokoro. I had a lot of fun tonight. Was I decent company?”
What was this, a trick question?
I nodded shyly, casting my gaze down at his feet. I give an awkward wave with my hand as I punch in the access code for the front door. Once inside, I saw him give his gentle smile as the elevator doors closed to take me to the 14th floor. With an exhale, I released the tension in my shoulders and the passion that possessed me just moments ago. What are you doing, Kokoro? His smile burning a permanent image in my mind, I almost forget to step off the elevator, pressing the open button once more to exit onto an empty floor leading to an empty apartment.
--
"Wait... you spent a whole night with him and nothing happened?!" Reiko stared at me in disbelief. "I would have at least gone to second base."
"Not all women want sex, Reiko," rebutted Juri. It was another girls' night out at our usual izakaya, and we were already two or three drinks in by the time I mentioned that night with Mr. Sakurai Sho.
"Oh, please. ALL women want sex. Some just hide it better." Reiko was firm in her stance.
Juri took a swig of her beer and looked over at me. "So? What happened then, if you didn't have sex with him?"
I went through the events from the night, how I had serendipitously ran into him by the water, how he saved me from Ryota, and how the drink had released me once again. The only details I left out were that he was once a bartender, and that there was something dark hidden underneath his becoming looks and mysterious smile.
This time, Juri was more supportive. "His was that different, huh? I didn't know not all drinks are created equal."
"I can't quite explain what happens to me when I drink something he's made," I cock my head to the side, confused. "It's like something taking over, like it controls my body, my thoughts."
"But wait, hang on," Reiko leaned in, curiosity piquing. “The reason he didn’t come up to your room was because he doesn’t date any of his clients, right? Then, don't be one of his clients! Problem solved. Then, you can have sex with him all you want!"
Juri shook her head and rolled her eyes. "Must everything lead to sex? Maybe he’s a gentleman and doesn’t force sex on a first date.”
“No, it wasn’t even a dat—” I couldn’t even finish my sentence.
“We haven't even confirmed with Kokoro yet,” Juri asserted.
"Fine. Kokoro, so, do you like him or not?"
The question caught me mid-sip and off-guard. Reiko wasn't completely wrong; there was an element of lust I couldn't ignore. It was confusing yet exhilarating, and the thought of him made my heart race, adrenaline pushing through my whole body.
"...I don't know," I answered, not completely sure.
"See, she didn't fully deny it!" Reiko pointed at Juri like she had won the argument.
"That's risky, Kokoro." Juri, as sensible as ever, gave a warning. "He's a nightclub host. He's no marriage material, I mean... do you even know if he's single?"
I couldn't answer that question.
"Who said anything about getting married?! I just want Kokoro to enjoy life, you know?" Reiko chimed in.
"Does it look like I lead a sad life?" I questioned jokingly.
Immediately, Reiko's eyes widened as she vigorously shook her head. "I didn't mean it like that, Kokoro. We're just worried. You haven't really been yourself since Ryota, and it's been over two years since that incident."
Wow, it's been that long? I sigh at the realization.
"But I can't stand to see you get hurt again, either," Juri said defiantly. "I don't want you getting involved with someone who pleases multiple women a night for a living."
"Don't you think she's looking much better though? I feel like her aura's changed." Reiko was into that sort of supernatural thing.
Juri fixed her bangs. It was something she did when she was nervous. "That may be true, but you don't even know much about him, do you?"
"Well, no..." Juri was right. Let's be honest, Kokoro. You didn't even know his name until a few days ago.
Juri crossed her arms and nodded. "My point exactly."
"Well, that's an easy fix," Reiko butted in. "You can get to know him better. Let's all go to the host club again!" she exclaimed excitedly.
"You just want to see Toma," Juri shrugged.
"So? It'll still serve its purpose. I'll go for Toma, and Kokoro can see Sho again. How about this Friday?"
"Well, I'd love to join you, but I need to present at a conference that night," Juri said. She was an animal rights activist and was always speaking at such events.
"What about you?" Reiko looked at me and raised her eyebrows.
"I think I'm free that night," I said as I checked my schedule.
"Well, then, it's set!" Reiko clapped happily. "I promise I won't drink as much as last time. I have to make sure Kokoro doesn't get herself into trouble!"
"Let's see who gets in trouble first..." Juri shook her head. "Kokoro, be careful. Nightclub hosts are suave with their words and enchanting with their looks, but smooth talkers are also the heartbreakers," she warned again.
"It'll just be another visit to the host club, no expectations attached. Besides, he doesn't date his clients, remember?"
"Smooth talkers are also good liars." Blame it on her profession: Juri was very slow to trust, and she reminded me on multiple occasions that I was 'too gullible and trusting'. This instance was no different.
"Thanks for looking out for me," I smiled. I know she meant well.
Sometimes, I wondered how the three of us became such close friends. Our backgrounds and values were all so different, and yet, we just seemed to work together, complementing strengths and filling in for one another where we fell short. It was always refreshing being with them, in spite of Juri's overprotective, motherly scolding and Reiko's free-spirited, vulgar ways. I truly appreciated their company.
"You call me if you need me to talk you out of something," Juri insisted.
Nodding, I take a gulp of my beer. Despite Juri's warning, I found myself wanting to see him and my heart danced at the thought. I had set off his trap and he had a firm hold of me. Friday couldn't come sooner.
--
"Reiko? Sorry, go ahead without me. I'm stuck at the salon trying to fix some numbers. I'll join you as soon as I'm done."
It was the much-awaited Friday night, but quarterly reviews were just around the corner and it was my job as Assistant Manager to type up the employee sales records.
"All right, but hurry. I reserved Toma and Sho as our hosts but they can't wait forever."
"Okay, I'll try my best to be out of here quick!"
Our reservation was for 8:30PM, but by the time I arrived at the host club, I was 45 minutes late. I climbed down the stairs to the basement level to get to the door. Beside it were framed photos of the hosts that I didn't notice the first time. They were placed in order of popularity, and only went down to 5th place. Curious, I look to see who took 1st.
...34?!
I couldn't believe my eyes. There he was, his mysterious smile and all, staring back at me. He's the most popular host...? Suddenly, the magic about him made sense, his charm and allure simplified down to one photo on the wall.
Realizing what I had gotten myself into, I hesitated to open the door. I could still turn back, I thought.
“What’s wrong with letting someone take care of you, Miss Kokoro?”
I could hear his inviting voice ricocheting around in my mind. Realizing he could control my actions even without being physically present, I accepted my defeat and walked in.
The same orange lighting welcomed me as available hosts lined up to greet me. I surveyed their faces but 34 was not among them.
"May I take your coat, miss?" A young host bowed and held out his arms.
"T-Thank you." I took out my cell phone in an attempt to call Reiko, but she found me before I could even unlock my screen.
"Kokoro~!" She got up from her seat and scurried over to get me. "Over here."
In a corner sofa were two hosts, one I recall and another whose face I couldn't recognize.
"This is Toma, as you know. And this is Ren," Reiko introduced.
"Where's 3...I mean, Sho?" I corrected myself. It was strange calling him by his real name.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Kokoro. He waited as long as he could, but he's so popular! Some other patron snatched him up,” Reiko explained apologetically.
Just then, I heard a group of women laughing, clinking their drinks together and enjoying jovial banter. In the spotlight, there he was, four women congregating around, two on either side of him. He had just told a joke, it seems, and the women gobbled it up like candy. One of the women linked her arm around his and rested her head on his shoulder, and he pet her head playfully.
Something surged through me, a green monster devouring my rational thoughts. I bit the inside of my cheeks to calm down, and, with effort, looked away.
"Kokoro? You okay?" I heard Reiko's concerned voice. "Come on, let's sit."
"Miss Kokoro? I'm Ren. What shall I make for you to start?"
"A gin and tonic." You can't mess that up, can you?
--
"Another gin and tonic, Ren."
On my side of the table were three, empty glasses, all gin and tonics, that left me thirsty and craving something more, a more robust body, something deeper. At his table, the banter continued as the women threw themselves at #1 host, Sho. He entertained them like a true gentleman, meeting their requests to the best of his ability. Although I couldn't make out their conversation, it was clear the women were having a good time. A great time, actually. While I chugged on gin and tonics, the other women got to sip on the divine cocktails he made and receive the full attention every woman deserves from a man like him. It was nearing 11:00PM and everyone knows that even cheap thrills like unsatisfactory drinks can catch up to you if you drink enough of them.
"Nightclub hosts are suave with their words and enchanting with their looks, but smooth talkers are also the heartbreakers."
I could hear Juri's voice clearly now. As I pondered on her advice, a question interrupted my train of thought.
"Excuse me, are you Miss Kokoro?" Another host arrived at our table and squatted down to eye level.
"Y...es?"
With a bow, the host handed me a business card. One side was a hologram, a dazzling onyx hue. I moved it in my hand and stared for a few moments.
Host Club Akatsuki
Sho, it read.
...What is this? I turn the card over to the other side. There, handwritten in the same onyx hue, was a message.
"Meet me outside in 30 minutes. Wait for me at the top of the stairs."
I turn my head toward his table. He was still entertaining the same four women, not a single hint of boredom on his face. The women looked like they were staying put, not looking to leave anytime soon. Was this message really from him? Even if it were, it didn’t seem like he'd be able to keep his word.
"Reiko? I'm getting a bit tired." I hoped this would be enough of a hint for us to go home.
"Hey, Kokoro. I'm probably going home with Toma tonight. I'll still see you off, though."
Ah. It was one of those nights.
Reiko once confessed that she had a sex addiction and that she needed help. Clearly, she hadn't gotten around to that. She and Toma had been secretly dating on and off for about a year now. Well, by dating, I mean having sex. This particular host club didn’t have any rules against dating patrons and Reiko was an unhappy housewife whose sexual frustrations were at an all-time high. Who was I to rain on her parade?
"It's all right. I can get home fine," I assured. Just then, I noticed that Ren had made me another glass of gin and tonic. Sigh. "Sorry, Ren. I'll pay for it, but I think I'm done for the night."
A host not pictured on the ranking photos retrieved my coat and I opened the door to leave. I heave a sigh before climbing up the stairs. 11:15PM. Only 15 more minutes. I ponder the possibility.
"You call me if you need me to talk you out of something."
At this rate, it was as if Juri were here with me. My hand reached for my phone and my fingers wondered if I should call her. Actually, I didn't leave the club tonight because I was tired, I thought. I left because I was bored. And irritated. And jealous. There, I admitted it. It annoyed me that he had somehow become important enough to me that I'd spare for him an emotion so useless as jealousy. Why do I have to feel envious of women I don't even know? I stared at my phone screen, fidgeting and debating whether to make that call.
"Did you wait long?" A familiar voice buzzed in my ears. I look up from my screen and see his eyes peeking from behind his golden bangs. I check the time.
11:29PM.
Oh, my god. He actually showed up. And I actually waited.
"You're actually here..." I was in disbelief.
"I extended the invitation, didn't I?" He raised his eyebrows and a few more strands fell over his eyes. "Could I make it up to you?"
"What...?"
"Your next drink is on me," he grinned.
Now, there was an offer I couldn’t let pass. “It better not be another gin and tonic,” I complain. “I need something with a bit more… allure.”
The gin was definitely starting to catch up. Against my better judgment, I let the alcohol speak for me.
"I feel like letting my inhibitions go." I comb my hair back as my hair falls softly on my cheek. Looking up at him, I could feel the walls coming down. I let out a sigh as a relaxed smile crosses my face.
"All right, I'll keep you company," he said. "I can't have you sharing that smile of yours with any other man."
Hm...?
I part my lips and tilt my head. My hair now covered half my face.
"Why n..."
He leaned down and looked straight at me. Taken by his inquisitive eyes once again, I couldn't finish my question.
"I thought so the first time I saw that smile," he said in a soft voice. "You gotta be careful, putting your guard down like that."
His hand reached toward me, slowly and carefully. I followed his fingers with my eyes, and my nose tickled smelling his cologne again.
"Men can take advantage of situations like this..." he trailed off as his hand drew nearer. He wasn't touching me but I could feel electrifying sensations along my cheek from the warmth of his fingers. My eyes started to close, letting his hand control me. But, just as soon as I closed them, I opened them right back up. His hand had found a comfy place on the top of my head, as he scrunched my hair and patted my head.
"See what mean?" he smiled elusively. Even in my intoxicated state, I could tell that, if not him, a lesser man would have used my drunken state as an excuse to do as he pleased.
I put my hand where his hand just was and felt the residual warmth of his palms. Wait a minute...
"See...! I knew you treat all your clients this way." I pouted my lips and looked at him skeptically.
"Were you watching?" His usual cryptic smile crossed his face again.
Damn it. He knew all along.
"Ren thought it was his fault that you weren't having a good time," he added, salt to the wound.
"...Hey, isn't this your fault?" I tried fighting back. "You were supposed to make me my Sidecar."
"I can't help that you were running late, Miss 33," he returned. "I normally don't wait for my clients to show up, but I stayed with Miss Reiko for 30 minutes waiting for your arrival."
"Oh, stop it. You ended up entertaining four times the number of women tonight. You should be thanking me! Besides, I bet you say that to all your clients," I pout again.
He could sense the tinge of jealousy that leaked out with my complaint. With that mysterious smile, he asked a question he had once asked me before.
"What makes you think that?"
His loaded question tainted my innocent thoughts, manipulating them into something lustful and impure. Silencing them was harder this time, as the alcohol was fighting for the other team.
"Come on," he said as he started toward the corner of the host club.
"Where are we going?"
"My car." He pointed to a private garage to the side of the building. "I'll drive us."
Rating: R for whole series, PG-13 for Ch.4 (suggestive language)
Beta:
kyraensui & lianne29 (Thank you, ladies!)Genre: Romance, Drama
Word count: 3,230
Plot: A 33-year-old singleton, Nijishima Kokoro, finds herself at a host club where she meets the club's most popular host, Sakurai Sho. The encounter propels Kokoro to explore a different kind of love as Sho helps Kokoro discover herself.
NOTE: This story reads like a shoujo manga--it is written in a fictitious first-person narrative where the reader is the protagonist. Please proceed with caution if you are uncomfortable with JE members having relationships with fictitious female characters (even if that female is you!).
Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3
Chapter Four: The Second Visit
[*Translator's note: Akatsuki means 'dawn' or 'moment of daybreak']
The night sky was starting to make way for the sun by the time we left the bar. It was almost 5:00AM when we arrived at my suburban apartment.
“It’s this one,” I said, pointing to a relatively new apartment building. I’ve never lived an extravagant life and I was no millionaire, but I did pride myself for being able to take care of myself. Ever since I moved out of Ryota’s place, I was determined to be good to myself, to live a comfortable life.
He looked up the tall edifice, then at me. “All right,” he combed his fingers through his hair. “That’s my cue.” He bowed courteously to bid farewell.
My heart pounded against my chest, a loud march of indecent thoughts thumping loudly again in my head, silencing the quiet, rational mind.
You just spent a whole night with this man.
Let him get some sleep.
Stop thinking about asking him up to your room.
“Wait…” It was all I could say to stop the night from ending.
“Hm?” His eyebrows raised, he waited for me to finish my thought.
I racked my brain for something to say, but clearly, I didn’t think the thought through. As if he knew, he moved closer to me, hands in his pockets.
“Were you thinking about inviting me up to your room?”
The question hit bullseye. Stunned, I was lost for words and an explanation.
“That’s unlike you, isn’t it?”
His second question also hit bullseye. How does he know that about me?
“Sorry, but I can’t do that,” he answered for me. Then, positioning his face only inches away from mine, he looked me straight in the eye and stated, “I don’t date any of my clients.”
Standing back up straight, he waited for me to collect my thoughts. “Good night, Miss Kokoro. I had a lot of fun tonight. Was I decent company?”
What was this, a trick question?
I nodded shyly, casting my gaze down at his feet. I give an awkward wave with my hand as I punch in the access code for the front door. Once inside, I saw him give his gentle smile as the elevator doors closed to take me to the 14th floor. With an exhale, I released the tension in my shoulders and the passion that possessed me just moments ago. What are you doing, Kokoro? His smile burning a permanent image in my mind, I almost forget to step off the elevator, pressing the open button once more to exit onto an empty floor leading to an empty apartment.
--
"Wait... you spent a whole night with him and nothing happened?!" Reiko stared at me in disbelief. "I would have at least gone to second base."
"Not all women want sex, Reiko," rebutted Juri. It was another girls' night out at our usual izakaya, and we were already two or three drinks in by the time I mentioned that night with Mr. Sakurai Sho.
"Oh, please. ALL women want sex. Some just hide it better." Reiko was firm in her stance.
Juri took a swig of her beer and looked over at me. "So? What happened then, if you didn't have sex with him?"
I went through the events from the night, how I had serendipitously ran into him by the water, how he saved me from Ryota, and how the drink had released me once again. The only details I left out were that he was once a bartender, and that there was something dark hidden underneath his becoming looks and mysterious smile.
This time, Juri was more supportive. "His was that different, huh? I didn't know not all drinks are created equal."
"I can't quite explain what happens to me when I drink something he's made," I cock my head to the side, confused. "It's like something taking over, like it controls my body, my thoughts."
"But wait, hang on," Reiko leaned in, curiosity piquing. “The reason he didn’t come up to your room was because he doesn’t date any of his clients, right? Then, don't be one of his clients! Problem solved. Then, you can have sex with him all you want!"
Juri shook her head and rolled her eyes. "Must everything lead to sex? Maybe he’s a gentleman and doesn’t force sex on a first date.”
“No, it wasn’t even a dat—” I couldn’t even finish my sentence.
“We haven't even confirmed with Kokoro yet,” Juri asserted.
"Fine. Kokoro, so, do you like him or not?"
The question caught me mid-sip and off-guard. Reiko wasn't completely wrong; there was an element of lust I couldn't ignore. It was confusing yet exhilarating, and the thought of him made my heart race, adrenaline pushing through my whole body.
"...I don't know," I answered, not completely sure.
"See, she didn't fully deny it!" Reiko pointed at Juri like she had won the argument.
"That's risky, Kokoro." Juri, as sensible as ever, gave a warning. "He's a nightclub host. He's no marriage material, I mean... do you even know if he's single?"
I couldn't answer that question.
"Who said anything about getting married?! I just want Kokoro to enjoy life, you know?" Reiko chimed in.
"Does it look like I lead a sad life?" I questioned jokingly.
Immediately, Reiko's eyes widened as she vigorously shook her head. "I didn't mean it like that, Kokoro. We're just worried. You haven't really been yourself since Ryota, and it's been over two years since that incident."
Wow, it's been that long? I sigh at the realization.
"But I can't stand to see you get hurt again, either," Juri said defiantly. "I don't want you getting involved with someone who pleases multiple women a night for a living."
"Don't you think she's looking much better though? I feel like her aura's changed." Reiko was into that sort of supernatural thing.
Juri fixed her bangs. It was something she did when she was nervous. "That may be true, but you don't even know much about him, do you?"
"Well, no..." Juri was right. Let's be honest, Kokoro. You didn't even know his name until a few days ago.
Juri crossed her arms and nodded. "My point exactly."
"Well, that's an easy fix," Reiko butted in. "You can get to know him better. Let's all go to the host club again!" she exclaimed excitedly.
"You just want to see Toma," Juri shrugged.
"So? It'll still serve its purpose. I'll go for Toma, and Kokoro can see Sho again. How about this Friday?"
"Well, I'd love to join you, but I need to present at a conference that night," Juri said. She was an animal rights activist and was always speaking at such events.
"What about you?" Reiko looked at me and raised her eyebrows.
"I think I'm free that night," I said as I checked my schedule.
"Well, then, it's set!" Reiko clapped happily. "I promise I won't drink as much as last time. I have to make sure Kokoro doesn't get herself into trouble!"
"Let's see who gets in trouble first..." Juri shook her head. "Kokoro, be careful. Nightclub hosts are suave with their words and enchanting with their looks, but smooth talkers are also the heartbreakers," she warned again.
"It'll just be another visit to the host club, no expectations attached. Besides, he doesn't date his clients, remember?"
"Smooth talkers are also good liars." Blame it on her profession: Juri was very slow to trust, and she reminded me on multiple occasions that I was 'too gullible and trusting'. This instance was no different.
"Thanks for looking out for me," I smiled. I know she meant well.
Sometimes, I wondered how the three of us became such close friends. Our backgrounds and values were all so different, and yet, we just seemed to work together, complementing strengths and filling in for one another where we fell short. It was always refreshing being with them, in spite of Juri's overprotective, motherly scolding and Reiko's free-spirited, vulgar ways. I truly appreciated their company.
"You call me if you need me to talk you out of something," Juri insisted.
Nodding, I take a gulp of my beer. Despite Juri's warning, I found myself wanting to see him and my heart danced at the thought. I had set off his trap and he had a firm hold of me. Friday couldn't come sooner.
--
"Reiko? Sorry, go ahead without me. I'm stuck at the salon trying to fix some numbers. I'll join you as soon as I'm done."
It was the much-awaited Friday night, but quarterly reviews were just around the corner and it was my job as Assistant Manager to type up the employee sales records.
"All right, but hurry. I reserved Toma and Sho as our hosts but they can't wait forever."
"Okay, I'll try my best to be out of here quick!"
Our reservation was for 8:30PM, but by the time I arrived at the host club, I was 45 minutes late. I climbed down the stairs to the basement level to get to the door. Beside it were framed photos of the hosts that I didn't notice the first time. They were placed in order of popularity, and only went down to 5th place. Curious, I look to see who took 1st.
...34?!
I couldn't believe my eyes. There he was, his mysterious smile and all, staring back at me. He's the most popular host...? Suddenly, the magic about him made sense, his charm and allure simplified down to one photo on the wall.
Realizing what I had gotten myself into, I hesitated to open the door. I could still turn back, I thought.
“What’s wrong with letting someone take care of you, Miss Kokoro?”
I could hear his inviting voice ricocheting around in my mind. Realizing he could control my actions even without being physically present, I accepted my defeat and walked in.
The same orange lighting welcomed me as available hosts lined up to greet me. I surveyed their faces but 34 was not among them.
"May I take your coat, miss?" A young host bowed and held out his arms.
"T-Thank you." I took out my cell phone in an attempt to call Reiko, but she found me before I could even unlock my screen.
"Kokoro~!" She got up from her seat and scurried over to get me. "Over here."
In a corner sofa were two hosts, one I recall and another whose face I couldn't recognize.
"This is Toma, as you know. And this is Ren," Reiko introduced.
"Where's 3...I mean, Sho?" I corrected myself. It was strange calling him by his real name.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Kokoro. He waited as long as he could, but he's so popular! Some other patron snatched him up,” Reiko explained apologetically.
Just then, I heard a group of women laughing, clinking their drinks together and enjoying jovial banter. In the spotlight, there he was, four women congregating around, two on either side of him. He had just told a joke, it seems, and the women gobbled it up like candy. One of the women linked her arm around his and rested her head on his shoulder, and he pet her head playfully.
Something surged through me, a green monster devouring my rational thoughts. I bit the inside of my cheeks to calm down, and, with effort, looked away.
"Kokoro? You okay?" I heard Reiko's concerned voice. "Come on, let's sit."
"Miss Kokoro? I'm Ren. What shall I make for you to start?"
"A gin and tonic." You can't mess that up, can you?
--
"Another gin and tonic, Ren."
On my side of the table were three, empty glasses, all gin and tonics, that left me thirsty and craving something more, a more robust body, something deeper. At his table, the banter continued as the women threw themselves at #1 host, Sho. He entertained them like a true gentleman, meeting their requests to the best of his ability. Although I couldn't make out their conversation, it was clear the women were having a good time. A great time, actually. While I chugged on gin and tonics, the other women got to sip on the divine cocktails he made and receive the full attention every woman deserves from a man like him. It was nearing 11:00PM and everyone knows that even cheap thrills like unsatisfactory drinks can catch up to you if you drink enough of them.
"Nightclub hosts are suave with their words and enchanting with their looks, but smooth talkers are also the heartbreakers."
I could hear Juri's voice clearly now. As I pondered on her advice, a question interrupted my train of thought.
"Excuse me, are you Miss Kokoro?" Another host arrived at our table and squatted down to eye level.
"Y...es?"
With a bow, the host handed me a business card. One side was a hologram, a dazzling onyx hue. I moved it in my hand and stared for a few moments.
Host Club Akatsuki
Sho, it read.
...What is this? I turn the card over to the other side. There, handwritten in the same onyx hue, was a message.
"Meet me outside in 30 minutes. Wait for me at the top of the stairs."
I turn my head toward his table. He was still entertaining the same four women, not a single hint of boredom on his face. The women looked like they were staying put, not looking to leave anytime soon. Was this message really from him? Even if it were, it didn’t seem like he'd be able to keep his word.
"Reiko? I'm getting a bit tired." I hoped this would be enough of a hint for us to go home.
"Hey, Kokoro. I'm probably going home with Toma tonight. I'll still see you off, though."
Ah. It was one of those nights.
Reiko once confessed that she had a sex addiction and that she needed help. Clearly, she hadn't gotten around to that. She and Toma had been secretly dating on and off for about a year now. Well, by dating, I mean having sex. This particular host club didn’t have any rules against dating patrons and Reiko was an unhappy housewife whose sexual frustrations were at an all-time high. Who was I to rain on her parade?
"It's all right. I can get home fine," I assured. Just then, I noticed that Ren had made me another glass of gin and tonic. Sigh. "Sorry, Ren. I'll pay for it, but I think I'm done for the night."
A host not pictured on the ranking photos retrieved my coat and I opened the door to leave. I heave a sigh before climbing up the stairs. 11:15PM. Only 15 more minutes. I ponder the possibility.
"You call me if you need me to talk you out of something."
At this rate, it was as if Juri were here with me. My hand reached for my phone and my fingers wondered if I should call her. Actually, I didn't leave the club tonight because I was tired, I thought. I left because I was bored. And irritated. And jealous. There, I admitted it. It annoyed me that he had somehow become important enough to me that I'd spare for him an emotion so useless as jealousy. Why do I have to feel envious of women I don't even know? I stared at my phone screen, fidgeting and debating whether to make that call.
"Did you wait long?" A familiar voice buzzed in my ears. I look up from my screen and see his eyes peeking from behind his golden bangs. I check the time.
11:29PM.
Oh, my god. He actually showed up. And I actually waited.
"You're actually here..." I was in disbelief.
"I extended the invitation, didn't I?" He raised his eyebrows and a few more strands fell over his eyes. "Could I make it up to you?"
"What...?"
"Your next drink is on me," he grinned.
Now, there was an offer I couldn’t let pass. “It better not be another gin and tonic,” I complain. “I need something with a bit more… allure.”
The gin was definitely starting to catch up. Against my better judgment, I let the alcohol speak for me.
"I feel like letting my inhibitions go." I comb my hair back as my hair falls softly on my cheek. Looking up at him, I could feel the walls coming down. I let out a sigh as a relaxed smile crosses my face.
"All right, I'll keep you company," he said. "I can't have you sharing that smile of yours with any other man."
Hm...?
I part my lips and tilt my head. My hair now covered half my face.
"Why n..."
He leaned down and looked straight at me. Taken by his inquisitive eyes once again, I couldn't finish my question.
"I thought so the first time I saw that smile," he said in a soft voice. "You gotta be careful, putting your guard down like that."
His hand reached toward me, slowly and carefully. I followed his fingers with my eyes, and my nose tickled smelling his cologne again.
"Men can take advantage of situations like this..." he trailed off as his hand drew nearer. He wasn't touching me but I could feel electrifying sensations along my cheek from the warmth of his fingers. My eyes started to close, letting his hand control me. But, just as soon as I closed them, I opened them right back up. His hand had found a comfy place on the top of my head, as he scrunched my hair and patted my head.
"See what mean?" he smiled elusively. Even in my intoxicated state, I could tell that, if not him, a lesser man would have used my drunken state as an excuse to do as he pleased.
I put my hand where his hand just was and felt the residual warmth of his palms. Wait a minute...
"See...! I knew you treat all your clients this way." I pouted my lips and looked at him skeptically.
"Were you watching?" His usual cryptic smile crossed his face again.
Damn it. He knew all along.
"Ren thought it was his fault that you weren't having a good time," he added, salt to the wound.
"...Hey, isn't this your fault?" I tried fighting back. "You were supposed to make me my Sidecar."
"I can't help that you were running late, Miss 33," he returned. "I normally don't wait for my clients to show up, but I stayed with Miss Reiko for 30 minutes waiting for your arrival."
"Oh, stop it. You ended up entertaining four times the number of women tonight. You should be thanking me! Besides, I bet you say that to all your clients," I pout again.
He could sense the tinge of jealousy that leaked out with my complaint. With that mysterious smile, he asked a question he had once asked me before.
"What makes you think that?"
His loaded question tainted my innocent thoughts, manipulating them into something lustful and impure. Silencing them was harder this time, as the alcohol was fighting for the other team.
"Come on," he said as he started toward the corner of the host club.
"Where are we going?"
"My car." He pointed to a private garage to the side of the building. "I'll drive us."
Tags:
![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
no subject
Date: August 7th, 2016 12:13 (UTC)no subject
Date: August 7th, 2016 12:14 (UTC)no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 11:13 (UTC)Ch.5 is ready for reading ;)
no subject
Date: August 7th, 2016 12:52 (UTC)no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 11:16 (UTC)Ch.5 is ready to read if you're interested ;)
no subject
Date: August 7th, 2016 20:10 (UTC)Sho is growing up on me, thanks to your wonderful writing <3
no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 11:19 (UTC)Ch.5 is ready to read if you're interested ;)
no subject
Date: August 7th, 2016 20:24 (UTC)Another enjoyable chapter. :D Looking forward to the next instalment!
Thank you very much, Emkay!
Aimee
no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 11:22 (UTC)Ch.5 is ready to read f you're interested ;)
no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 21:45 (UTC)Aimee
no subject
Date: August 8th, 2016 05:39 (UTC)good as always emkay~~
34, you are so adorable!!!
thanks for telling bout the new chapter
i'm sensing that next chapter will be good...
no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 11:23 (UTC)Ch.5 is ready to read if you're interested~!
no subject
Date: August 9th, 2016 07:38 (UTC)thank you so much for telling me the new chap is up, i love it! :D
no subject
Date: August 18th, 2016 21:49 (UTC)Ch.5 is up if you're interested ;)
no subject
Date: August 19th, 2016 02:19 (UTC)I've read chap 5! IT'S GREAT!!! looking forward for the next one ;D
no subject
Date: August 21st, 2016 16:37 (UTC)no subject
Date: August 22nd, 2016 11:22 (UTC)Ch.5 & 6 are up if you are interested in reading them~!
no subject
Date: October 22nd, 2016 15:25 (UTC)AHHhh i see hehe it is fun :DD sorry for such a late reply been pretty busy recently >.< Managed to read till chp 10 though and I saw chp 11 updated aAHHHH yessss!! thank you!!!!
no subject
Date: October 15th, 2016 13:17 (UTC)Thanks for this once again!