rabenhorst (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
rabenhorst) wrote2009-10-08 10:01 pm
rabenhorst) wrote2009-10-08 10:01 pm
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Title: Shotgun wedding; Chapter 2: This House Ain't Big Enough For the Both of Us
Author:![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
seinen_no and fonulyn
Rating: PG [going up to NC17]
Pairing: Die and Kaoru
Disclaimer: We own no one, only our dirty imaginations.
Summary: The Niikura’s and the Andou’s used to be the two biggest families in town, wealthy and respected to the point of practically ruling the business as they wished. Times have changed though, and thus the heads of the clans have decided to take the needed steps to join their families to restore their power. Single persons don’t have much to say about anything when the whole future of the families is in question, that much the eldest sons of the Niikura family and the Andou family have to come to notice.
Comments:
seinen_no: So their life together begins and they learn how it is to act like a young couple in love. Hmm, what else to say? I hope you enjoy the progress, even if they might not be where you all seemingly want them XD And I'm sorry, not a long comment from me right now since I'm way too braindead somehow. And sometimes it's better to keep your mouth shut anyways ^_^
fonulyn: Soooo, this’ll end the Oktoberfest AU-week on our part at least, since it’s the last piece we have prepared for the week ;) Don’t worry, the story will go on from here as well, and we try not to take too long between updates XD And you can look forward to what we have ready for the other three weeks of the Oktoberfest! I hope you’ve enjoyed thus far, and hopefully you’ll enjoy this till the end :D
And feel free to add our journal if you like the stories!
Plus, the archive .
Previously happened: Part 1
Shotgun Wedding
Chapter 2: This House Ain't Big Enough For the Both of Us
Kaoru slept surprisingly well although he didn't move a single muscle throughout the whole night. It was as if his subconsciousness remembered not to touch the body that lay beside him, as if it was afraid Die could be poisoned. In the morning, he was the first one to wake up though but since he couldn't appear at the breakfast table alone, he just went to the bathroom and took a long shower.
When he was done, his husband still wasn't awake and so Kaoru just sat down at the table, opened his notebook and began to answer some important mails and afterwards worked on an offer for a client as his redheaded husband was a deep sleeper apparently. It was already close to noon when Die finally opened his eyes the first time, stretching his long limbs and yawning before he realized where he was and what had happened. Instantly when he spotted his husband sitting a bit further, working, his mood darkened and he was even more convinced that there was nothing on Kaoru's mind than mere work and business.
Although they didn't exchange a single word during the morning and while getting dressed, when it got time for them to show up in public, they already were perfectly in their roles again. They were smiling at each other, exchanging short glances or touches even, and everyone around was more than convinced how happy the two were together.
That was exactly how their lives began to form from then on. In public they were the perfect couple, always smiling and happy and there wasn't a single reason for anyone to suspect that anything fishy was going on while behind closed doors they were trying to avoid each other as much as possible. It was pretty easy though, since Kaoru always went to work early in the mornings when Die was still asleep, and the latter often went out in the evenings with some of his friends so that he wasn't there when Kaoru returned. It lasted some time until Isamu Andou admonished his son that he wasn't supposed to act like he was single anymore but rather fit into his role as a married man.
After that, Die was home more often, and they were bound to meet each other every night after Kaoru was home from work. Which, sometimes, was the exact same time when Die got up after spending the whole day in bed. That was one of the little things that made them loathe each other even more. Die couldn't stand Kaoru's punctuality, his tendency to be a strict perfectionist, how he always watched television in the early morning with the sound on loud so it definitely carried to the bedroom as well and disturbed his sleep, while Kaoru found himself getting more and more irritated by the fact that Die was always lolling in bed until late in the afternoon, might spend hours and hours just picking clothes or some sweet smelling body-lotion, how he never went to bed before the early morning hours and wasn't considerate at all that someone else might want to sleep in the house.
Die just acted like the spoiled brat he was, used to getting everything he wanted whenever he wanted it. So if he felt like inviting some of his friends, he didn't even ask Kaoru if he had to work the next day or not. It led to some serious arguments as the young Niikura felt like all the pent up pressure, the unsaid insults, would make him burst once. He was a polite person usually, strict, and reliable, had perfect manners but what was too much was too much.
One day when he came home from work around four in the afternoon and found his husband lolling on the couch, a bowl of cereals in his hands and wearing nothing but a bathrobe, he couldn't hold back a remark anymore. "Did you just get up?" After only receiving a half-hearted nod, he grunted and slammed his jacket on one of the chairs at the dining table. "How about doing something meaningful with your time? Like getting up early with me and at least work out. You could use some muscles, you know, and it would give you more energy as well."
"What if I don't want muscles or more energy?" Die gave his husband a short glance, arching one of his perfectly plucked eyebrows. His attention was back at the cereal in no time though, and half heartedly he even took a look at the TV show he had been watching. "It's not like I'd be getting fat and would need the exercise. Stop complaining."
"Who knows? You might get fat once." With having said, Kaoru turned around and left the other man; too annoyed and moreover fed up with him to stay and watch his laziness much longer.
It was that evening when Kaoru called his father and told him he would come over to the Niikura residence. He didn't even wait for an answer. It took him only half an hour to get there and right after the butler had opened the door for him, bowing lowly for the young master, he stormed into his father's working room. "Father, this is a no-go situation. I can't live like that, can't pretend to be all lovey-dovey when in reality I'm ready to kill that useless boy. I can't even take my anger out on him by fucking him to the next century!" He was almost shaking since he was so agitated, totally forgetting his good manners.
For a while his father looked stunned, not having expected a fit like that from his normally so calm son. He got up from behind his desk, circling it and gestured for the young man to sit down on one of the comfortable looking armchairs that were situated in the corner in front of a fireplace. He didn't take a seat yet himself but rather poured them both a drink, thinking Kaoru would need it. "Something happened? I mean, I knew you didn't exactly think he's the best person in the world but I thought you were getting along decently."
"Decently?" Kaoru grabbed the offered glass and emptied it in one gulp before slumping down on the armchair. "This man, no," he shook his head, correcting himself, "this spoiled boy doesn't do anything that's not to his liking. He is lazy, and the only thing he's worried about is his looks and when he will meet with his no-good friends again. I'm working almost every damn day and he sleeps till two pm. What is that? And then," Kaoru needed to take a deep breath before he could go on, "when I finally have off, did my workout, had something to eat and want to enjoy my free time, he comes up with something to do that certainly annoys me, like playing some stupid videogame with the volume up so much that the house-maid rushes in and asks if we heard the gunshots too."
A small, dry grin was tugging Mr. Niikura's lips for a second, but he knew better than to show that there was indeed even something slightly amusing in the explanation. He did understand his son though, and was definitely siding with him in his mind. "Can't you tell him to turn the TV down a bit, or just go into some other room and pretend he's not there?" he suggested carefully, shrugging a bit. "You're supposed to go on living together for a long time now, you have to clear these things instead of bottling them up until you explode."
"I told him more than once." Kaoru rolled his eyes as his father should have known that. "No, I asked him, but it seems like he is purposefully trying to annoy me as if this all had been my idea. C'mon, I'm just as stuck as he is and I would have appreciated if he just saw it like that, a partnership of convenience. I know we need the Andous' support more than they need us, but this is pure torture. Dad," the young man searched for his father's gaze with his eyes, addressing him casually, "I feel like I'm wasting my best years there. Nobody would ever notice if I once proceed the actual marriage. At least I am quite certain that not even Die would mind as leading life in celibacy is impossible."
The suggestion caused the older Niikura's eyes to widen a little bit and he instantly shook his head firmly. "No, Kaoru, don't even think about that. The old Andou isn't as trusting as you might think, he has his eyes and ears everywhere. Who do you think hired all your servants? They will run straight to him if they see you as much as touch Die suggestively." He stopped for a moment, pursing his lips thoughtfully before going on. "Although you're not supposed to touch him, nothing stops you from letting off some steam with the servants, you know…" he suggested bluntly.
That revelation struck the young Niikura like lightning. "So that's not against the rule?" He had never seen the contract, had never even caught a glimpse at it but had to rely on what his father told him. Finally, a small relieved smile appeared on his lips again and he released a deep sigh. "That's at least good news. Really good news actually." He was pretty sure that, as long as he was allowed to have sex otherwise, he wouldn't even think about touching Die indecently; gorgeous or not. Though he couldn't deny that the knowledge that they were watched constantly did disturb him more than just a bit.
"It's not against the rules as long as you make sure that it's kept as a secret. But I'm sure you know how to deal with things." Mr. Niikura smiled a bit, pouring his son another drink as if to celebrate that there was at least some sort of solution available to make things easier. "The old Andou made it perfectly clear he doesn't care what happens as long as the public image is kept clean and you're not getting too close to his son. He's ridiculously strict with these absurd rules of his."
Kaoru had a good reply lying on his tongue, but he swallowed it and instead took a sip from his drink. He had found back to his old self again, his expression calm and unreadable as it used to be during official meetings. "I'm perfectly discrete. Just trust me."
He and his father kept on talking for some more time, soon moving over to discussing the concerns of the company without mentioning the marriage again. When Kaoru finally got into his sports car to drive home, he was almost completely reconciled with himself and was actually smiling when he entered the living room only to find Die occupying the couch together with a drink and a woman who obviously did his nails.
"So you're not even going out for that anymore?" the Niikura son more stated than asked. The comment didn't come out as harsh as it would have before he had gone to see his father, but it was meant to tease nevertheless.
"Why go out when I can have it done here as well?" the redhead asked casually, not even raising his gaze to look at the other man. He did it on purpose, avoided even looking at Kaoru since he knew that then all the small things that were annoying in him would just resurface. When he couldn't like his husband the best he could do was trying to ignore him, right? At least he had figured it out like that. He didn't have any interest in trying to work on getting along better.
Neither did Kaoru and so he just shrugged, took his laptop from the dining-table and went over into his private bedroom. At least Die hadn't disturbed him there yet and mostly kept the door shut just like they were supposed to. If the servants were spying on them, they at least only got to report that Die's father had nothing to worry about his son's innocence. Although Kaoru had heard things about Die's wild antics as the young Andou had never bothered to keep silent about his sex-life in public.
Although they had only exchanged a couple of words, the short meeting had managed to darken Die's mood instantly. He kept on looking after the other man for a while, completely lost in thoughts. This wasn't exactly like he had imagined his life, and he couldn't deny that he would've preferred an even somewhat more normal marriage to this fake shell they were having. But it wasn't like him to dwell on things like that for long, and soon he had his attention directed back at his nails and his drink. He simply had so much free time in his hands that he had learned to focus on whatever was at hand, as it made time pass better and lessened the threat of getting bored.
The days went on like that. Kaoru got up early, worked out, went to the office and, to keep up façade, went home afterwards only to get back to work on his computer. It was frustrating for both of them as they felt like they had nothing in common really.
Always when one of them tried to get along with the other, sat down in the living-room on the couch to join watching TV, there was only silence. And it wasn’t the comfortable kind, the one where you just feel like you can be yourself with the other one, feel accepted and peaceful to just sit there quietly and enjoy the other's company. No, this always was the oppressive kind, the awkward moment of silence when you're desperately trying to come up with something to say, just anything, and yet your mind is just blank or then you don't dare to speak up since you're afraid to annoy the other one.
Kaoru couldn't count anymore how often they had sat there like that in total silence, pretending to be fascinated by the running program. Usually, he would have thought that Die and he at least had one thing in common; the fact that they both had been forced into this, but as it seemed this wasn't enough to build some kind of relationship, let alone a friendship.
At least they could avoid each other as best as possible when they were at home, seeing that their house was huge, had many rooms, garden, pool and even a sauna. But who would want to lead a life like that for years? Kaoru asked himself how long it would take until either of them snapped and decided to kick it. It wouldn't be him, of course, since the happiness of his whole family depended on him and he didn't want to be selfish. Yet, it was hard to keep a positive attitude, or just any attitude at all, when you didn't have somebody to talk to. Sometimes, he called his mother or his father, just to talk. He tried not to complain about the situation too much, just listened to what was going on in their lives and talked about his progress at work or a new deal he managed to seal.
Die had similar problems, since it wasn't like he wouldn't have been yearning for some real company too, for someone to talk to for real. The difference was though that he didn't even have anyone he could call, because his mother had been dead for years and his father and he weren't best friends exactly. He still visited his father at times, if only to complain about the situation and yell at the older man about the fucked up situation that was – at least it was obvious to Die – completely the old Andou's fault.
He always simply got sent back home after those talks though, back to his life and to his marriage that wasn't a real marriage to begin with. He was even beginning to consider if he should suggest some sort of physical relationship to his husband anyways, concealed from his father, since being able to vent the physical frustration would at least do some good and maybe calm his mind too. He never did it though, since even the frustration and the fact that Kaoru was indeed attractive weren't enough reasons for him to overcome the dislike he felt for the slightly older man.
Somehow they still developed a habit of watching television together regularly, several times a week. Neither of them even completely knew why, but they always found themselves sitting in the living room, either in the furthermost corners of the huge couch, or with Die lolling on the couch and Kaoru occupying the huge armchair. Not a single word was spoken, not a single open glance exchanged, and still they both always arrived in front of the television like in silent stipulation.
This day was no different, and once the regular dumb Thursday night quiz show was on they were both on their regular places in the living room. Normally when Die was watching television he was stretching his limbs freely on the couch, making himself comfortable one way or another, but whenever Kaoru was in the same room he somehow couldn't bring himself to relax completely, and although he was partly lying on the couch there was still something tense in his posture if one paid attention to it.
Kaoru, on his side, tried to appear cool and relaxed, but it was clear that it was only an act. The whole situation was just fucked up, the whole week had been, and as it seemed, his life was too. The other man's proximity made his heart beat a bit quicker, simply because he tried so hard to come up with something that could start a conversation. At business it was different. There he had no problems speaking to a dozen of people he didn't like at all, trying to convince them to do business with his family. He was charming, eloquent and, that he knew very well, attractive but still all those aspects didn't seem to impress Die in the least. "This is just fucked up!" he mumbled, meaning the moment while it could've been a comment about the show as well.
The sudden comment startled Die a bit since usually they didn't say anything, especially not to each other, although they might talk to a passing by servant occasionally. He turned his gaze at the other man even, giving him a real glance for the first time in what felt like ages. "At least one thing we agree in," he remarked, shrugging casually before turning his eyes back towards the screen. He didn't elaborate on it further, leaving the statement as vague as his husband's first words had been.
Kaoru hadn't even expected an answer to his comment and was now startled on his side, staring at the redheaded man for a few seconds. When he was focused on something quietly, Die looked even better than usual, the flickering screen mirroring in his huge brown eyes. "We should mark the day in the calendar," he said finally, if only to have the last word and to make sure he didn't intend on changing anything although in reality, it would have taken away the stress from him if they would get along on some kind of friendly terms; even a truce would have been sufficient in his eyes.
"You do that," Die answered casually, his tone sounding like he couldn't care less what the other man did as it wouldn't affect him anyways. Which was only partly true, since when living together that closely, everything they did affected the other on some level at least. The redhead's heart was beating a little bit faster, and he surprised himself by thinking that it might even be enthusiasm or nervousness for this was probably the most they had ever talked during their marriage, if one counted out what they had to talk in public.
His husband felt the same way and his heart too beat faster again, although it might have also been annoyance too due to the comment. He was used to being diplomatic while bargaining with trading partners, so why couldn't he use a tiny amount of that knowledge on Die as well? After a minute of arguing with himself, Kaoru finally took the bowl of chips that was standing on the table beside him and held it up for the other man, hoping he'd sound as casual as possible. "Want some?"
If possible the younger man's heart begun to beat a little bit faster still, a disbelieving sparkle flashing in his eyes suddenly. Automatically, he reached out his hand, accepting the offer before he was even thinking of it. "Thanks." The single word escaped him as well and inwardly he cursed himself. Was he getting too friendly with Kaoru already?
He didn't have to fear that though since this was about all they spoke during the evening. Still, it was a small success, a small step forward to maybe once get along. Maybe, in ten years or so, Kaoru thought. He had no idea what it was that annoyed him so much in the slightly younger man, if it was his rich-boy attitude, his whole posture or just the fact that they were forced to play the happy and loving couple in public, but he just couldn't get past that somehow.
After this evening though, things changed slowly. There were still many evenings passing by in complete silence, an invisible tension between them, but there were also moments when they exchanged a few words; if only to talk about an upcoming feast they had to attend, a meeting or some other celebration where their presence was required.
In public, it showed what good actors both men were as they cast affectionate glances at each other and even exchanged small kisses; simple gestures that spoke of their 'love'. Almost everybody was happy for the couple and wherever they appeared, they caused people to wallow in old memories when they had been young themselves. Even old men, who were considered to be tough nuts in the job, melted away and got this certain sparkle in their eyes when they saw these two people whose love united two of the most powerful families so naturally. It didn't happen that often that love was the foundation of marriage in these societies and thus it was treasured by almost anyone.
There had been a long pause in official parties and meetings and they had been able to spend almost three weeks at home without having to go anywhere in the evenings. On one hand, it took this certain burden off them since they didn't have to act like they'd be totally in love, but then again it left them having to spend too much time together at home in the evenings and they were getting more and more frustrated. When they again had to attend a semi-official cocktail party, neither of them knew really whether to be relieved or bothered by it.
When they stepped out of the car in front of the huge building where the party was held, Kaoru instantly grabbed Die's arm as they were heading inside together. In the beginning when Kaoru had done that Die had always tensed, but now he had learned to act as if it was the most natural thing in the world, was leaning a bit closer to the smaller man even to look like he was really enjoying the moment. After all, people were watching them.
Kaoru tried to force away the slight uncomfortableness that was still there when they collected glances from almost anyone in the room as they entered it. On some level, at least in their world, they were celebrities, maybe not the queen herself but definitely a lord and his 'lady', and they had to act according to that.
Hayato Nakamura, the host and a very important tradesman who held almost all the stock of one rivalling company, rushed forward to greet them. He was a charming man in his late forties, the hair of his temples turning grey already which made him even more attractive for the women. Kaoru had high hopes that he would agree on joining forces with their own company to displace both their biggest competitor. "Ah, Niikura!" the small man greeted him and then turned to look at Die. "I'm glad you brought your husband with you. After all, a party would be boring without some company for later, right?" In a hectic gesture, he beckoned a waiter who had just passed them with a plate of champagne. Smiling, he took two glasses and handed them to the young couple.
Kaoru gave a charming smile. He was used to do the talking mostly and inwardly was glad that Die kept his mouth shut and didn't say anything that would most definitely be inappropriate or stupid as the redhead had no idea about who was important and who wasn't. "Thank you." After toasting towards the host and his husband of course, he nodded agreeing. "It sure is. What's an evening without the ladies, right."
The smile on Die's face didn't even stir, only widened a bit as he gave a couple of polite chuckles while Nakamura laughed heartily at the comment. Inwardly, the redhead was already boiling with anger after such a small, short comment from his husband. Somehow Kaoru always knew what to say and how to make him lose his temper instantly. One of the things that made him always cringe was the way Kaoru referred to him as a woman always. He had to just grin and bear it though, and probably no one even noticed there was anything wrong.
"You're right, and I'm sure that when one has a spouse as charming as yours one doesn't want to go anywhere alone anymore, right?" Nakamura was still chuckling, giving Die a good natured wink although he was still clearly addressing Kaoru.
"Although I'd rather not go anywhere at all," the young Niikura answered with an insinuating smirk. Like naturally he took Die's hand in his, but instead of kissing the back of his hand like anyone else would have done to show his affection, he turned it around and placed a gentle peck on the inside of his wrist.
Although normally Die was so used to these gestures, knew that Kaoru was good at acting affectionate and was able to bear it, this time one could see him tense for a split second. If one listened carefully there even was a small sigh escaping his lips, his eyes falling halfway closed before he got a hold of himself. Quickly he covered with a smile though, pretending to be happy, and he didn't even hear Nakamura's next comment at all. The truth was that Kaoru had accidentally – since it had to be an accident, right? – found the most sensitive spot he could've possibly picked to kiss. The inside of his wrist had always been a place where Die liked to be touched, kissed, and he couldn't help that he enjoyed it even though he might not have liked the fact that it was Kaoru doing it.
Kaoru startled a bit as he had expected Die to answer something. He took a short glance at the redhead, but soon had to direct his attention back at Nakamura who repeated his comment and forced the young Niikura to laugh artificially in an agreeing manner. Still, he held onto Die's hand, his thumb softly caressing the wrist. Inwardly, he tried to find out what had caused the change in his husband, what had made him so silent for the time being, but he couldn't quite place it yet.
Nakamura beckoned them inside, insisting that Kaoru had a drink with him in private later to discuss business matters. With a wink, he said to Die that he wouldn't be interested anyways, knowing that the Andou-son never had cared much about family's business. Instead, he suggested that Die could stick with the women and have a couple of drinks to keep up with the latest gossip.
That was again enough to make Die boil with anger. Although he never had concealed the fact that, when it came to intimate relationships, he preferred to be at the receiving end, it didn't mean that it made him a woman. Still so many people seemed to either ignore it or genuinely not understand. He was already used enough to it by then though to only laugh politely, nodding and assuring Nakamura that it was exactly what he was looking forward to. He could deal with those brainless women and make them all head over heels for him, as he knew exactly how to be charming.
Right now they headed forward into the room though, smoothly going over to greeting acquaintances and working partners, since Nakamura needed to attend some other guests that were just arriving. Only later would there be time for the talk he had mentioned. Die's arm was loosely hooked with Kaoru's, and he followed his husband from one bunch of people to another, always smiling and exchanging a few polite words when addressed, but otherwise remaining silent. They made a perfectly functioning couple at least when it came to this, both knowing exactly what role to play.
It was that they both knew exactly what was expected from them. Inwardly, Kaoru enjoyed teasing his redheaded husband with the fact that everybody plainly saw him as the 'girl' in the relationship. Of course he knew how much it annoyed Die and that caused a certain malicious delight to dwell in him which made it easier to smile and look like the happy newlywed.
What annoyed him in turn was that Die tended to drink too much at times and he always had to check upon him so that he wouldn't drop the façade. Very much to this surprise, Die was a natural when it came to the lie of their lives and no matter how drunk he was, he was charming with the ladies, made the snobbish wives of their business partners giggle like teenaged girls with red cheeks. Whenever Kaoru interrupted one of those moments, he was showered with compliments for his husband, and since the wives usually had pretty much influence on their husbands as well, he and the redhead received important invitations for barbeques, dinner parties and golf excurses. At least Die was useful for something, he thought.
Die's life was already boring enough as he always just spent time at home and thus he enjoyed these parties in a way. He knew what a huge effect he had on people when he set out to it, and he took it as a game. It was rewarding to see a sour woman, who had hated him from the first second, melt into a smile and finally simply gaze at him with unmistakeable admiration. The redhead knew he was good, and seeing how everyone fell under his spell just fed his ego.
He had to admit though that he admired Kaoru on some level even. Seeing how eloquent and convincing he was when needed, how he was unmistakeably a professional in handling people as well. Only in his own way. Die would've rather died than admitted that though, as he was in no way willing to let Kaoru know there was anything in him he considered admirable or good.
At one point they parted, Die leaning closer to peck Kaoru's lips quickly before heading off to the other end of the huge salon, where the women – and a couple of men as well – were sitting and chatting, while the actual businessmen had gathered elsewhere. They were standing a bit further, many of them absorbed in heated discussions about business politics already although this was in no way an official meeting, more like a place to strengthen relationships between trading partners. This was when Nakamura again informed Kaoru that he wanted to talk with him in private about something.
It was the reason why they had come to this party and Kaoru was glad that his plan had worked out so smoothly. Indeed, Nakamura suggested that their companies should join forces and make a contract to seal the deal. Kaoru was rejoicing, but professional enough not to show that he had been expecting this. Now he was only hoping that Die hadn't forgotten how much they needed an invitation to the annual dinner party of Nakamura's brother, Torao Nakamura and the way there led, of course, through Torao's wife.
After the private talk and sealing the deal, Kaoru rejoined the party guests, had a couple of drinks and chatted with a few people. His mind was with the redhead though, as, for some reason, he remembered the slight tension in him when they had arrived at the party. A theory formed in his mind and he set out to prove its truth sometime later when given the opportunity.
It was already late when Kaoru decided they could retreat home and had done enough to bonding. He set out to search for Die, knowing they would need to say goodbyes to the most important people and the host together. The redheaded man was still in the "ladies' corner" and constant laughter was emerging from there. When Kaoru came closer he noticed that his husband was definitely being the star, the center of attention, and as he currently was amusing the ladies who were all gazing at him almost worshipping. It made Kaoru stop for a second, and he simply watched for a while.
It didn't take long and Die noticed him standing a bit further, and only for a split second there was this unreadable expression on his features before he was smiling again and raised his voice to address his husband. "So, time to head home?" he asked casually and that made Kaoru snap back from his thoughts, smiling politely at the women. "I'm sorry to steal him from you, but unfortunately it's time for us to leave." Some protests were heard, but surprisingly swiftly Die managed to say proper goodbyes to the whole bunch, smoothly hooking his arm with Kaoru's, allowing him to take the lead.
While they were heading to the nearest table where some important people were waiting for their goodbyes, Kaoru took a sideway glance at his husband. His smile never faltered as he spoke. "We got the deal," he murmured, only loud enough to drown out the music and general sound level.
Approvingly Die nodded, his smile as friendly and stunning as ever. He didn't even look at his husband, his voice just loud enough to be heard when he spoke, even a slightly arrogant undertone coloring it. "Expect an invitation to a certain party one of these days." His smile turned into a smirk as he tilted his head, glancing at the slightly shorter man beside him. "It's on its way."
His expression actually elicited a chuckle from Kaoru as much as the tone of his voice. To be honest, he wouldn't have expected anything less from the redhead, but he would never admit it of course. Instead, he only tightened his hold on his husband's arm and stopped their tracks in front of a few suits. "Honey," his voice was sweet as silk as he turned to smile at Die, "say goodbye to Torao Nakamura, the brother of our host tonight." He himself bowed a bit to pay his respects to the man.
"So pleased that you could come," Torao Nakamura took Die's hand, raising it to indicate a kiss even as if Die would've been any of the wives present. There was not a single change in the redhead's expression that would've told what he thought about the gesture. Outwardly there was only a pleased and polite smile as he nodded at the man. "The pleasure was all ours, right Kaoru?" He glanced at his husband who only smiled and nodded instantly, before Die went on. "I've been enjoying the time with your wife, she is a wonderful lady."
That made the younger of the Nakamura men chuckle a bit and he indicated a bow. "Well thank you. I've talked to her and she is very fond of you." Subconsciously, Kaoru tightened his hold on Die's arm, holding his breath as he was waiting for the expected invitation to the dinner-party. It stayed away though and only when they already turned around to leave, they heard Nakamura speak up again. "Oh, Niikura." Kaoru looked up, trying not to just fling around and gaze at him straight. "Expect my invitation for the annual dinner party in my garden." A small, relieved sigh escaped the young Niikura and he smiled politely. "That's so kind of you." Torao Nakamura looked at his redheaded husband though. "My wife is already looking forward to continuing the conversation from today with you."
Die flashed a stunning smile, nodding politely before answering. "I am certainly looking forward to it too. It's rare to have that interesting conversations." He noticed clearly how pleased Nakamura seemed to be at the comment as well, and inwardly congratulated himself: victory once again! They exchanged a couple of more words still, repeating their goodbyes before the young couple retreated for good. It didn't take long and they had talked to all the important people they needed to say goodbyes to, only the host of the night remaining.
Nakamura seemed to be more than pleased how the evening had turned out, especially since they had sealed this important deal together. He expressed his delight that the couple had appeared to the party several times, not forgetting to compliment the redhead on his stunning looks that night. That was probably the only good thing in being labelled the wife, Die thought, since he at least enjoyed the compliments he received from all around.
Kaoru couldn't even contradict as he too had to admit that his husband looked stunning. There was this certain aura around Die that made him practically gleam and attractive for everybody, men and women equally falling for his charm.
Finally, they were sitting in the car, both in the farmost corners of the backseat. Kaoru was tired from the exhausting business talks while his husband still looked very energetic, very much alive and for a second, he asked himself if Die would ask the driver to drop him off at some club for him to go dancing still. Yet, the redhead didn't and silence fell over them again.
"It's really cool that you managed to get the invitation," Kaoru finally said, trying his best to sound at least approving. It wasn't in him to compliment his husband, but he wanted him to know that he indeed was grateful for this kind of help with business. After all, Die's part of the work was almost as important as his own and he was willing to acknowledge that.
Still the compliment took Die by surprise and for a second there was an honestly surprised and pleased expression on his face before the confident smirk took over. "The Nakamura woman is as easy to handle as wax. With a little patience, no problem." He shrugged a bit, trying to make it look as if it hadn't been a big deal. He genuinely appreciated the words though, and there was a small honest smile still caressing his lips.
"I know others who found her a hard nut to crack," Kaoru replied grinning. He would have had something mean to add, but bit it back this time, not wanting the tension to return between them just now. It was tough enough to know that it would be back tomorrow again. So he remained silent and after looking at Die for a moment, he turned his head to look out of the window, watching the bright city lights pass by.
Die wanted to reply something still, but in the end just didn't know what to say really. The mood was surprisingly relaxed, and he decided to stay silent since he wasn't in the mood argue nor tease and have the tension back again either. He remained on his place, but secretly stole long glances at his husband who didn't seem to notice it at all. He had to admit, Kaoru was attractive with his aristocratic features. To get rid of the thoughts he quickly shook his head, turning to look out of his window to distract himself.
Author:
seinen_no and fonulynRating: PG [going up to NC17]
Pairing: Die and Kaoru
Disclaimer: We own no one, only our dirty imaginations.
Summary: The Niikura’s and the Andou’s used to be the two biggest families in town, wealthy and respected to the point of practically ruling the business as they wished. Times have changed though, and thus the heads of the clans have decided to take the needed steps to join their families to restore their power. Single persons don’t have much to say about anything when the whole future of the families is in question, that much the eldest sons of the Niikura family and the Andou family have to come to notice.
Comments:
seinen_no: So their life together begins and they learn how it is to act like a young couple in love. Hmm, what else to say? I hope you enjoy the progress, even if they might not be where you all seemingly want them XD And I'm sorry, not a long comment from me right now since I'm way too braindead somehow. And sometimes it's better to keep your mouth shut anyways ^_^fonulyn: Soooo, this’ll end the Oktoberfest AU-week on our part at least, since it’s the last piece we have prepared for the week ;) Don’t worry, the story will go on from here as well, and we try not to take too long between updates XD And you can look forward to what we have ready for the other three weeks of the Oktoberfest! I hope you’ve enjoyed thus far, and hopefully you’ll enjoy this till the end :DAnd feel free to add our journal if you like the stories!
Plus, the archive .
Previously happened: Part 1
Chapter 2: This House Ain't Big Enough For the Both of Us
Kaoru slept surprisingly well although he didn't move a single muscle throughout the whole night. It was as if his subconsciousness remembered not to touch the body that lay beside him, as if it was afraid Die could be poisoned. In the morning, he was the first one to wake up though but since he couldn't appear at the breakfast table alone, he just went to the bathroom and took a long shower.
When he was done, his husband still wasn't awake and so Kaoru just sat down at the table, opened his notebook and began to answer some important mails and afterwards worked on an offer for a client as his redheaded husband was a deep sleeper apparently. It was already close to noon when Die finally opened his eyes the first time, stretching his long limbs and yawning before he realized where he was and what had happened. Instantly when he spotted his husband sitting a bit further, working, his mood darkened and he was even more convinced that there was nothing on Kaoru's mind than mere work and business.
Although they didn't exchange a single word during the morning and while getting dressed, when it got time for them to show up in public, they already were perfectly in their roles again. They were smiling at each other, exchanging short glances or touches even, and everyone around was more than convinced how happy the two were together.
That was exactly how their lives began to form from then on. In public they were the perfect couple, always smiling and happy and there wasn't a single reason for anyone to suspect that anything fishy was going on while behind closed doors they were trying to avoid each other as much as possible. It was pretty easy though, since Kaoru always went to work early in the mornings when Die was still asleep, and the latter often went out in the evenings with some of his friends so that he wasn't there when Kaoru returned. It lasted some time until Isamu Andou admonished his son that he wasn't supposed to act like he was single anymore but rather fit into his role as a married man.
After that, Die was home more often, and they were bound to meet each other every night after Kaoru was home from work. Which, sometimes, was the exact same time when Die got up after spending the whole day in bed. That was one of the little things that made them loathe each other even more. Die couldn't stand Kaoru's punctuality, his tendency to be a strict perfectionist, how he always watched television in the early morning with the sound on loud so it definitely carried to the bedroom as well and disturbed his sleep, while Kaoru found himself getting more and more irritated by the fact that Die was always lolling in bed until late in the afternoon, might spend hours and hours just picking clothes or some sweet smelling body-lotion, how he never went to bed before the early morning hours and wasn't considerate at all that someone else might want to sleep in the house.
Die just acted like the spoiled brat he was, used to getting everything he wanted whenever he wanted it. So if he felt like inviting some of his friends, he didn't even ask Kaoru if he had to work the next day or not. It led to some serious arguments as the young Niikura felt like all the pent up pressure, the unsaid insults, would make him burst once. He was a polite person usually, strict, and reliable, had perfect manners but what was too much was too much.
One day when he came home from work around four in the afternoon and found his husband lolling on the couch, a bowl of cereals in his hands and wearing nothing but a bathrobe, he couldn't hold back a remark anymore. "Did you just get up?" After only receiving a half-hearted nod, he grunted and slammed his jacket on one of the chairs at the dining table. "How about doing something meaningful with your time? Like getting up early with me and at least work out. You could use some muscles, you know, and it would give you more energy as well."
"What if I don't want muscles or more energy?" Die gave his husband a short glance, arching one of his perfectly plucked eyebrows. His attention was back at the cereal in no time though, and half heartedly he even took a look at the TV show he had been watching. "It's not like I'd be getting fat and would need the exercise. Stop complaining."
"Who knows? You might get fat once." With having said, Kaoru turned around and left the other man; too annoyed and moreover fed up with him to stay and watch his laziness much longer.
It was that evening when Kaoru called his father and told him he would come over to the Niikura residence. He didn't even wait for an answer. It took him only half an hour to get there and right after the butler had opened the door for him, bowing lowly for the young master, he stormed into his father's working room. "Father, this is a no-go situation. I can't live like that, can't pretend to be all lovey-dovey when in reality I'm ready to kill that useless boy. I can't even take my anger out on him by fucking him to the next century!" He was almost shaking since he was so agitated, totally forgetting his good manners.
For a while his father looked stunned, not having expected a fit like that from his normally so calm son. He got up from behind his desk, circling it and gestured for the young man to sit down on one of the comfortable looking armchairs that were situated in the corner in front of a fireplace. He didn't take a seat yet himself but rather poured them both a drink, thinking Kaoru would need it. "Something happened? I mean, I knew you didn't exactly think he's the best person in the world but I thought you were getting along decently."
"Decently?" Kaoru grabbed the offered glass and emptied it in one gulp before slumping down on the armchair. "This man, no," he shook his head, correcting himself, "this spoiled boy doesn't do anything that's not to his liking. He is lazy, and the only thing he's worried about is his looks and when he will meet with his no-good friends again. I'm working almost every damn day and he sleeps till two pm. What is that? And then," Kaoru needed to take a deep breath before he could go on, "when I finally have off, did my workout, had something to eat and want to enjoy my free time, he comes up with something to do that certainly annoys me, like playing some stupid videogame with the volume up so much that the house-maid rushes in and asks if we heard the gunshots too."
A small, dry grin was tugging Mr. Niikura's lips for a second, but he knew better than to show that there was indeed even something slightly amusing in the explanation. He did understand his son though, and was definitely siding with him in his mind. "Can't you tell him to turn the TV down a bit, or just go into some other room and pretend he's not there?" he suggested carefully, shrugging a bit. "You're supposed to go on living together for a long time now, you have to clear these things instead of bottling them up until you explode."
"I told him more than once." Kaoru rolled his eyes as his father should have known that. "No, I asked him, but it seems like he is purposefully trying to annoy me as if this all had been my idea. C'mon, I'm just as stuck as he is and I would have appreciated if he just saw it like that, a partnership of convenience. I know we need the Andous' support more than they need us, but this is pure torture. Dad," the young man searched for his father's gaze with his eyes, addressing him casually, "I feel like I'm wasting my best years there. Nobody would ever notice if I once proceed the actual marriage. At least I am quite certain that not even Die would mind as leading life in celibacy is impossible."
The suggestion caused the older Niikura's eyes to widen a little bit and he instantly shook his head firmly. "No, Kaoru, don't even think about that. The old Andou isn't as trusting as you might think, he has his eyes and ears everywhere. Who do you think hired all your servants? They will run straight to him if they see you as much as touch Die suggestively." He stopped for a moment, pursing his lips thoughtfully before going on. "Although you're not supposed to touch him, nothing stops you from letting off some steam with the servants, you know…" he suggested bluntly.
That revelation struck the young Niikura like lightning. "So that's not against the rule?" He had never seen the contract, had never even caught a glimpse at it but had to rely on what his father told him. Finally, a small relieved smile appeared on his lips again and he released a deep sigh. "That's at least good news. Really good news actually." He was pretty sure that, as long as he was allowed to have sex otherwise, he wouldn't even think about touching Die indecently; gorgeous or not. Though he couldn't deny that the knowledge that they were watched constantly did disturb him more than just a bit.
"It's not against the rules as long as you make sure that it's kept as a secret. But I'm sure you know how to deal with things." Mr. Niikura smiled a bit, pouring his son another drink as if to celebrate that there was at least some sort of solution available to make things easier. "The old Andou made it perfectly clear he doesn't care what happens as long as the public image is kept clean and you're not getting too close to his son. He's ridiculously strict with these absurd rules of his."
Kaoru had a good reply lying on his tongue, but he swallowed it and instead took a sip from his drink. He had found back to his old self again, his expression calm and unreadable as it used to be during official meetings. "I'm perfectly discrete. Just trust me."
He and his father kept on talking for some more time, soon moving over to discussing the concerns of the company without mentioning the marriage again. When Kaoru finally got into his sports car to drive home, he was almost completely reconciled with himself and was actually smiling when he entered the living room only to find Die occupying the couch together with a drink and a woman who obviously did his nails.
"So you're not even going out for that anymore?" the Niikura son more stated than asked. The comment didn't come out as harsh as it would have before he had gone to see his father, but it was meant to tease nevertheless.
"Why go out when I can have it done here as well?" the redhead asked casually, not even raising his gaze to look at the other man. He did it on purpose, avoided even looking at Kaoru since he knew that then all the small things that were annoying in him would just resurface. When he couldn't like his husband the best he could do was trying to ignore him, right? At least he had figured it out like that. He didn't have any interest in trying to work on getting along better.
Neither did Kaoru and so he just shrugged, took his laptop from the dining-table and went over into his private bedroom. At least Die hadn't disturbed him there yet and mostly kept the door shut just like they were supposed to. If the servants were spying on them, they at least only got to report that Die's father had nothing to worry about his son's innocence. Although Kaoru had heard things about Die's wild antics as the young Andou had never bothered to keep silent about his sex-life in public.
Although they had only exchanged a couple of words, the short meeting had managed to darken Die's mood instantly. He kept on looking after the other man for a while, completely lost in thoughts. This wasn't exactly like he had imagined his life, and he couldn't deny that he would've preferred an even somewhat more normal marriage to this fake shell they were having. But it wasn't like him to dwell on things like that for long, and soon he had his attention directed back at his nails and his drink. He simply had so much free time in his hands that he had learned to focus on whatever was at hand, as it made time pass better and lessened the threat of getting bored.
The days went on like that. Kaoru got up early, worked out, went to the office and, to keep up façade, went home afterwards only to get back to work on his computer. It was frustrating for both of them as they felt like they had nothing in common really.
Always when one of them tried to get along with the other, sat down in the living-room on the couch to join watching TV, there was only silence. And it wasn’t the comfortable kind, the one where you just feel like you can be yourself with the other one, feel accepted and peaceful to just sit there quietly and enjoy the other's company. No, this always was the oppressive kind, the awkward moment of silence when you're desperately trying to come up with something to say, just anything, and yet your mind is just blank or then you don't dare to speak up since you're afraid to annoy the other one.
Kaoru couldn't count anymore how often they had sat there like that in total silence, pretending to be fascinated by the running program. Usually, he would have thought that Die and he at least had one thing in common; the fact that they both had been forced into this, but as it seemed this wasn't enough to build some kind of relationship, let alone a friendship.
At least they could avoid each other as best as possible when they were at home, seeing that their house was huge, had many rooms, garden, pool and even a sauna. But who would want to lead a life like that for years? Kaoru asked himself how long it would take until either of them snapped and decided to kick it. It wouldn't be him, of course, since the happiness of his whole family depended on him and he didn't want to be selfish. Yet, it was hard to keep a positive attitude, or just any attitude at all, when you didn't have somebody to talk to. Sometimes, he called his mother or his father, just to talk. He tried not to complain about the situation too much, just listened to what was going on in their lives and talked about his progress at work or a new deal he managed to seal.
Die had similar problems, since it wasn't like he wouldn't have been yearning for some real company too, for someone to talk to for real. The difference was though that he didn't even have anyone he could call, because his mother had been dead for years and his father and he weren't best friends exactly. He still visited his father at times, if only to complain about the situation and yell at the older man about the fucked up situation that was – at least it was obvious to Die – completely the old Andou's fault.
He always simply got sent back home after those talks though, back to his life and to his marriage that wasn't a real marriage to begin with. He was even beginning to consider if he should suggest some sort of physical relationship to his husband anyways, concealed from his father, since being able to vent the physical frustration would at least do some good and maybe calm his mind too. He never did it though, since even the frustration and the fact that Kaoru was indeed attractive weren't enough reasons for him to overcome the dislike he felt for the slightly older man.
Somehow they still developed a habit of watching television together regularly, several times a week. Neither of them even completely knew why, but they always found themselves sitting in the living room, either in the furthermost corners of the huge couch, or with Die lolling on the couch and Kaoru occupying the huge armchair. Not a single word was spoken, not a single open glance exchanged, and still they both always arrived in front of the television like in silent stipulation.
This day was no different, and once the regular dumb Thursday night quiz show was on they were both on their regular places in the living room. Normally when Die was watching television he was stretching his limbs freely on the couch, making himself comfortable one way or another, but whenever Kaoru was in the same room he somehow couldn't bring himself to relax completely, and although he was partly lying on the couch there was still something tense in his posture if one paid attention to it.
Kaoru, on his side, tried to appear cool and relaxed, but it was clear that it was only an act. The whole situation was just fucked up, the whole week had been, and as it seemed, his life was too. The other man's proximity made his heart beat a bit quicker, simply because he tried so hard to come up with something that could start a conversation. At business it was different. There he had no problems speaking to a dozen of people he didn't like at all, trying to convince them to do business with his family. He was charming, eloquent and, that he knew very well, attractive but still all those aspects didn't seem to impress Die in the least. "This is just fucked up!" he mumbled, meaning the moment while it could've been a comment about the show as well.
The sudden comment startled Die a bit since usually they didn't say anything, especially not to each other, although they might talk to a passing by servant occasionally. He turned his gaze at the other man even, giving him a real glance for the first time in what felt like ages. "At least one thing we agree in," he remarked, shrugging casually before turning his eyes back towards the screen. He didn't elaborate on it further, leaving the statement as vague as his husband's first words had been.
Kaoru hadn't even expected an answer to his comment and was now startled on his side, staring at the redheaded man for a few seconds. When he was focused on something quietly, Die looked even better than usual, the flickering screen mirroring in his huge brown eyes. "We should mark the day in the calendar," he said finally, if only to have the last word and to make sure he didn't intend on changing anything although in reality, it would have taken away the stress from him if they would get along on some kind of friendly terms; even a truce would have been sufficient in his eyes.
"You do that," Die answered casually, his tone sounding like he couldn't care less what the other man did as it wouldn't affect him anyways. Which was only partly true, since when living together that closely, everything they did affected the other on some level at least. The redhead's heart was beating a little bit faster, and he surprised himself by thinking that it might even be enthusiasm or nervousness for this was probably the most they had ever talked during their marriage, if one counted out what they had to talk in public.
His husband felt the same way and his heart too beat faster again, although it might have also been annoyance too due to the comment. He was used to being diplomatic while bargaining with trading partners, so why couldn't he use a tiny amount of that knowledge on Die as well? After a minute of arguing with himself, Kaoru finally took the bowl of chips that was standing on the table beside him and held it up for the other man, hoping he'd sound as casual as possible. "Want some?"
If possible the younger man's heart begun to beat a little bit faster still, a disbelieving sparkle flashing in his eyes suddenly. Automatically, he reached out his hand, accepting the offer before he was even thinking of it. "Thanks." The single word escaped him as well and inwardly he cursed himself. Was he getting too friendly with Kaoru already?
He didn't have to fear that though since this was about all they spoke during the evening. Still, it was a small success, a small step forward to maybe once get along. Maybe, in ten years or so, Kaoru thought. He had no idea what it was that annoyed him so much in the slightly younger man, if it was his rich-boy attitude, his whole posture or just the fact that they were forced to play the happy and loving couple in public, but he just couldn't get past that somehow.
After this evening though, things changed slowly. There were still many evenings passing by in complete silence, an invisible tension between them, but there were also moments when they exchanged a few words; if only to talk about an upcoming feast they had to attend, a meeting or some other celebration where their presence was required.
In public, it showed what good actors both men were as they cast affectionate glances at each other and even exchanged small kisses; simple gestures that spoke of their 'love'. Almost everybody was happy for the couple and wherever they appeared, they caused people to wallow in old memories when they had been young themselves. Even old men, who were considered to be tough nuts in the job, melted away and got this certain sparkle in their eyes when they saw these two people whose love united two of the most powerful families so naturally. It didn't happen that often that love was the foundation of marriage in these societies and thus it was treasured by almost anyone.
There had been a long pause in official parties and meetings and they had been able to spend almost three weeks at home without having to go anywhere in the evenings. On one hand, it took this certain burden off them since they didn't have to act like they'd be totally in love, but then again it left them having to spend too much time together at home in the evenings and they were getting more and more frustrated. When they again had to attend a semi-official cocktail party, neither of them knew really whether to be relieved or bothered by it.
When they stepped out of the car in front of the huge building where the party was held, Kaoru instantly grabbed Die's arm as they were heading inside together. In the beginning when Kaoru had done that Die had always tensed, but now he had learned to act as if it was the most natural thing in the world, was leaning a bit closer to the smaller man even to look like he was really enjoying the moment. After all, people were watching them.
Kaoru tried to force away the slight uncomfortableness that was still there when they collected glances from almost anyone in the room as they entered it. On some level, at least in their world, they were celebrities, maybe not the queen herself but definitely a lord and his 'lady', and they had to act according to that.
Hayato Nakamura, the host and a very important tradesman who held almost all the stock of one rivalling company, rushed forward to greet them. He was a charming man in his late forties, the hair of his temples turning grey already which made him even more attractive for the women. Kaoru had high hopes that he would agree on joining forces with their own company to displace both their biggest competitor. "Ah, Niikura!" the small man greeted him and then turned to look at Die. "I'm glad you brought your husband with you. After all, a party would be boring without some company for later, right?" In a hectic gesture, he beckoned a waiter who had just passed them with a plate of champagne. Smiling, he took two glasses and handed them to the young couple.
Kaoru gave a charming smile. He was used to do the talking mostly and inwardly was glad that Die kept his mouth shut and didn't say anything that would most definitely be inappropriate or stupid as the redhead had no idea about who was important and who wasn't. "Thank you." After toasting towards the host and his husband of course, he nodded agreeing. "It sure is. What's an evening without the ladies, right."
The smile on Die's face didn't even stir, only widened a bit as he gave a couple of polite chuckles while Nakamura laughed heartily at the comment. Inwardly, the redhead was already boiling with anger after such a small, short comment from his husband. Somehow Kaoru always knew what to say and how to make him lose his temper instantly. One of the things that made him always cringe was the way Kaoru referred to him as a woman always. He had to just grin and bear it though, and probably no one even noticed there was anything wrong.
"You're right, and I'm sure that when one has a spouse as charming as yours one doesn't want to go anywhere alone anymore, right?" Nakamura was still chuckling, giving Die a good natured wink although he was still clearly addressing Kaoru.
"Although I'd rather not go anywhere at all," the young Niikura answered with an insinuating smirk. Like naturally he took Die's hand in his, but instead of kissing the back of his hand like anyone else would have done to show his affection, he turned it around and placed a gentle peck on the inside of his wrist.
Although normally Die was so used to these gestures, knew that Kaoru was good at acting affectionate and was able to bear it, this time one could see him tense for a split second. If one listened carefully there even was a small sigh escaping his lips, his eyes falling halfway closed before he got a hold of himself. Quickly he covered with a smile though, pretending to be happy, and he didn't even hear Nakamura's next comment at all. The truth was that Kaoru had accidentally – since it had to be an accident, right? – found the most sensitive spot he could've possibly picked to kiss. The inside of his wrist had always been a place where Die liked to be touched, kissed, and he couldn't help that he enjoyed it even though he might not have liked the fact that it was Kaoru doing it.
Kaoru startled a bit as he had expected Die to answer something. He took a short glance at the redhead, but soon had to direct his attention back at Nakamura who repeated his comment and forced the young Niikura to laugh artificially in an agreeing manner. Still, he held onto Die's hand, his thumb softly caressing the wrist. Inwardly, he tried to find out what had caused the change in his husband, what had made him so silent for the time being, but he couldn't quite place it yet.
Nakamura beckoned them inside, insisting that Kaoru had a drink with him in private later to discuss business matters. With a wink, he said to Die that he wouldn't be interested anyways, knowing that the Andou-son never had cared much about family's business. Instead, he suggested that Die could stick with the women and have a couple of drinks to keep up with the latest gossip.
That was again enough to make Die boil with anger. Although he never had concealed the fact that, when it came to intimate relationships, he preferred to be at the receiving end, it didn't mean that it made him a woman. Still so many people seemed to either ignore it or genuinely not understand. He was already used enough to it by then though to only laugh politely, nodding and assuring Nakamura that it was exactly what he was looking forward to. He could deal with those brainless women and make them all head over heels for him, as he knew exactly how to be charming.
Right now they headed forward into the room though, smoothly going over to greeting acquaintances and working partners, since Nakamura needed to attend some other guests that were just arriving. Only later would there be time for the talk he had mentioned. Die's arm was loosely hooked with Kaoru's, and he followed his husband from one bunch of people to another, always smiling and exchanging a few polite words when addressed, but otherwise remaining silent. They made a perfectly functioning couple at least when it came to this, both knowing exactly what role to play.
It was that they both knew exactly what was expected from them. Inwardly, Kaoru enjoyed teasing his redheaded husband with the fact that everybody plainly saw him as the 'girl' in the relationship. Of course he knew how much it annoyed Die and that caused a certain malicious delight to dwell in him which made it easier to smile and look like the happy newlywed.
What annoyed him in turn was that Die tended to drink too much at times and he always had to check upon him so that he wouldn't drop the façade. Very much to this surprise, Die was a natural when it came to the lie of their lives and no matter how drunk he was, he was charming with the ladies, made the snobbish wives of their business partners giggle like teenaged girls with red cheeks. Whenever Kaoru interrupted one of those moments, he was showered with compliments for his husband, and since the wives usually had pretty much influence on their husbands as well, he and the redhead received important invitations for barbeques, dinner parties and golf excurses. At least Die was useful for something, he thought.
Die's life was already boring enough as he always just spent time at home and thus he enjoyed these parties in a way. He knew what a huge effect he had on people when he set out to it, and he took it as a game. It was rewarding to see a sour woman, who had hated him from the first second, melt into a smile and finally simply gaze at him with unmistakeable admiration. The redhead knew he was good, and seeing how everyone fell under his spell just fed his ego.
He had to admit though that he admired Kaoru on some level even. Seeing how eloquent and convincing he was when needed, how he was unmistakeably a professional in handling people as well. Only in his own way. Die would've rather died than admitted that though, as he was in no way willing to let Kaoru know there was anything in him he considered admirable or good.
At one point they parted, Die leaning closer to peck Kaoru's lips quickly before heading off to the other end of the huge salon, where the women – and a couple of men as well – were sitting and chatting, while the actual businessmen had gathered elsewhere. They were standing a bit further, many of them absorbed in heated discussions about business politics already although this was in no way an official meeting, more like a place to strengthen relationships between trading partners. This was when Nakamura again informed Kaoru that he wanted to talk with him in private about something.
It was the reason why they had come to this party and Kaoru was glad that his plan had worked out so smoothly. Indeed, Nakamura suggested that their companies should join forces and make a contract to seal the deal. Kaoru was rejoicing, but professional enough not to show that he had been expecting this. Now he was only hoping that Die hadn't forgotten how much they needed an invitation to the annual dinner party of Nakamura's brother, Torao Nakamura and the way there led, of course, through Torao's wife.
After the private talk and sealing the deal, Kaoru rejoined the party guests, had a couple of drinks and chatted with a few people. His mind was with the redhead though, as, for some reason, he remembered the slight tension in him when they had arrived at the party. A theory formed in his mind and he set out to prove its truth sometime later when given the opportunity.
It was already late when Kaoru decided they could retreat home and had done enough to bonding. He set out to search for Die, knowing they would need to say goodbyes to the most important people and the host together. The redheaded man was still in the "ladies' corner" and constant laughter was emerging from there. When Kaoru came closer he noticed that his husband was definitely being the star, the center of attention, and as he currently was amusing the ladies who were all gazing at him almost worshipping. It made Kaoru stop for a second, and he simply watched for a while.
It didn't take long and Die noticed him standing a bit further, and only for a split second there was this unreadable expression on his features before he was smiling again and raised his voice to address his husband. "So, time to head home?" he asked casually and that made Kaoru snap back from his thoughts, smiling politely at the women. "I'm sorry to steal him from you, but unfortunately it's time for us to leave." Some protests were heard, but surprisingly swiftly Die managed to say proper goodbyes to the whole bunch, smoothly hooking his arm with Kaoru's, allowing him to take the lead.
While they were heading to the nearest table where some important people were waiting for their goodbyes, Kaoru took a sideway glance at his husband. His smile never faltered as he spoke. "We got the deal," he murmured, only loud enough to drown out the music and general sound level.
Approvingly Die nodded, his smile as friendly and stunning as ever. He didn't even look at his husband, his voice just loud enough to be heard when he spoke, even a slightly arrogant undertone coloring it. "Expect an invitation to a certain party one of these days." His smile turned into a smirk as he tilted his head, glancing at the slightly shorter man beside him. "It's on its way."
His expression actually elicited a chuckle from Kaoru as much as the tone of his voice. To be honest, he wouldn't have expected anything less from the redhead, but he would never admit it of course. Instead, he only tightened his hold on his husband's arm and stopped their tracks in front of a few suits. "Honey," his voice was sweet as silk as he turned to smile at Die, "say goodbye to Torao Nakamura, the brother of our host tonight." He himself bowed a bit to pay his respects to the man.
"So pleased that you could come," Torao Nakamura took Die's hand, raising it to indicate a kiss even as if Die would've been any of the wives present. There was not a single change in the redhead's expression that would've told what he thought about the gesture. Outwardly there was only a pleased and polite smile as he nodded at the man. "The pleasure was all ours, right Kaoru?" He glanced at his husband who only smiled and nodded instantly, before Die went on. "I've been enjoying the time with your wife, she is a wonderful lady."
That made the younger of the Nakamura men chuckle a bit and he indicated a bow. "Well thank you. I've talked to her and she is very fond of you." Subconsciously, Kaoru tightened his hold on Die's arm, holding his breath as he was waiting for the expected invitation to the dinner-party. It stayed away though and only when they already turned around to leave, they heard Nakamura speak up again. "Oh, Niikura." Kaoru looked up, trying not to just fling around and gaze at him straight. "Expect my invitation for the annual dinner party in my garden." A small, relieved sigh escaped the young Niikura and he smiled politely. "That's so kind of you." Torao Nakamura looked at his redheaded husband though. "My wife is already looking forward to continuing the conversation from today with you."
Die flashed a stunning smile, nodding politely before answering. "I am certainly looking forward to it too. It's rare to have that interesting conversations." He noticed clearly how pleased Nakamura seemed to be at the comment as well, and inwardly congratulated himself: victory once again! They exchanged a couple of more words still, repeating their goodbyes before the young couple retreated for good. It didn't take long and they had talked to all the important people they needed to say goodbyes to, only the host of the night remaining.
Nakamura seemed to be more than pleased how the evening had turned out, especially since they had sealed this important deal together. He expressed his delight that the couple had appeared to the party several times, not forgetting to compliment the redhead on his stunning looks that night. That was probably the only good thing in being labelled the wife, Die thought, since he at least enjoyed the compliments he received from all around.
Kaoru couldn't even contradict as he too had to admit that his husband looked stunning. There was this certain aura around Die that made him practically gleam and attractive for everybody, men and women equally falling for his charm.
Finally, they were sitting in the car, both in the farmost corners of the backseat. Kaoru was tired from the exhausting business talks while his husband still looked very energetic, very much alive and for a second, he asked himself if Die would ask the driver to drop him off at some club for him to go dancing still. Yet, the redhead didn't and silence fell over them again.
"It's really cool that you managed to get the invitation," Kaoru finally said, trying his best to sound at least approving. It wasn't in him to compliment his husband, but he wanted him to know that he indeed was grateful for this kind of help with business. After all, Die's part of the work was almost as important as his own and he was willing to acknowledge that.
Still the compliment took Die by surprise and for a second there was an honestly surprised and pleased expression on his face before the confident smirk took over. "The Nakamura woman is as easy to handle as wax. With a little patience, no problem." He shrugged a bit, trying to make it look as if it hadn't been a big deal. He genuinely appreciated the words though, and there was a small honest smile still caressing his lips.
"I know others who found her a hard nut to crack," Kaoru replied grinning. He would have had something mean to add, but bit it back this time, not wanting the tension to return between them just now. It was tough enough to know that it would be back tomorrow again. So he remained silent and after looking at Die for a moment, he turned his head to look out of the window, watching the bright city lights pass by.
Die wanted to reply something still, but in the end just didn't know what to say really. The mood was surprisingly relaxed, and he decided to stay silent since he wasn't in the mood argue nor tease and have the tension back again either. He remained on his place, but secretly stole long glances at his husband who didn't seem to notice it at all. He had to admit, Kaoru was attractive with his aristocratic features. To get rid of the thoughts he quickly shook his head, turning to look out of his window to distract himself.