ClouzyDay

9 hours!

Alara's Dance (Chapter 3)

Previous Chapters

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Synopsis: (18+) Alara is a dancer entangled in a drug trafficking ring that has taken over the city, leading to multiple murders, with all signs pointing to her involvement. When she meets headstrong detective Nanami Kento, they find themselves struggling against a natural attraction toward each other.

Warning: Graphic language, sex, smut. sexual themes, violence.

Alara’s fears were heightened as she sat alone in her penthouse, the vast city skyline sprawled out before her, dotted with neon lights and the few stars visible in the city. The events of the previous night played on a loop in her mind, each iteration making her dread the consequences even more. She couldn't shake the feeling that she had crossed a line, one that might not be forgiven. She glanced at her phone, wishing for it to light up. Her sister hadn’t replied to her texts, which wasn’t completely unusual, but when Alara sent an S.O.S., her sister was typically quick to respond. With twenty-four hours nearly up, her nerves were frayed.

Walking over to her kitchen, she popped open a bottle of expensive red wine and poured herself a generous glass. She downed it like it was water, hoping it would numb her against what was coming. She suspected Mahito would return to berate her, but her expectations were vastly different from the reality that awaited. Taking another gulp, she opened the side table drawer and stared at Nanami’s business card. It called to her, a lifeline dangling just out of reach, but she fought the urge once again. Whatever was coming, she would face it alone. She had always managed to handle herself, even when the odds were stacked against her.

Her heart skipped a beat when she heard a faint knock at her door. It was light, almost tentative—a knock that could only mean her sister. Usually, the men who came to snatch her up for private dances pounded on the door. She ran over and opened it, immediately falling back when she saw who was standing there. Her eyes widened and her heart raced. Towering over her was Geto, one of the leaders of the ring. He was usually in charge of deals and liaisons with clients. Alara had only met him twice, each encounter more terrifying than the last. He had never touched her, but his sheer presence was intimidating enough.

Alara stepped back as he walked in. There were no other men with him, no Mahito—nothing. His large build seemed to make her spacious penthouse shrink. She closed the door behind him and stood near it, her back pressed against the cool surface. He looked around, eyeing the décor with a smile that would usually put people at ease, but on him, it only made him more menacing. He was handsome, with a mane of lush, healthy black hair, always neatly done, and even his nails were manicured to perfection.

He said nothing for a solid three minutes, just taking in his surroundings before finally turning his attention to Alara. His eyes were dark, with pupils so small they gave him a unique, unsettling look. Alara looked away, unable to maintain eye contact. She noticed that he was dressed in black jeans, black running shoes, and a dri-fit shirt that hugged every muscle of his chiseled frame.

He must have noticed her scrutiny because he finally spoke. “I just left the gym. I was only able to change my pants. I apologize if my attire isn’t fitting for the occasion.”

Alara was in shorts and an oversized shirt, feeling exposed despite her casual attire. She didn’t know what occasion he could be referring to. He watched her, his head tilted in amusement, finding her reactions almost endearing. He placed his hands behind his back and walked over to her slowly. As large as his feet were, his footsteps were nearly silent against the marble floors. Alara’s back was already to the door, and she wished she could disappear into the hallway. He walked up to her, his chest puffed out and eyes locked onto hers. Her gaze only reached his chest, her hands still by her sides. Unlike Mahito, he smelled of expensive cologne with a hint of pine. Alara glanced up slightly, catching him looking straight down at her. Her eyes darted to his chin, noting his strong jawline. This man was strong on his own. Alara bit her lip as she saw his hand move. Without saying a word, he locked the door behind her, and she flinched at the sound of the click.

Whatever he was going to do, she knew she wouldn’t win. He let his nose graze the top of her hairline, taking in her scent. She had just showered, and the wild berry body wash fragrance filled the room.

His hand went to her waist, causing her to shake under his touch. He immediately grabbed her arm, forcing her to stop. “That shaking shit stops tonight,” he whispered in a deadly tone.

His voice... Alara had almost forgotten how it sounded. He continued, placing his hands on her shoulders, feeling them as if examining merchandise. Alara looked away, but he used a hand to force her to look at him. She closed her eyes, and he brought his lips a breath away from hers.

“Open your eyes,” he demanded. Alara opened them slowly, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. He released her face and stepped back to observe her demeanor. “The most beautiful woman in the country even looks beautiful when she cries.” He sighed theatrically. “I was sent here to talk to you. And I thought to myself, how could I convince her to do the very job she was hired to do?” Alara looked at him, her tears flowing freely. “You’re our most prized possession. I know you haven’t been with anyone since…” he let his words trail off, aware of how sensitive the subject was. “Well, you know…” He smirked. “I thought maybe reminding you of what sex and intimacy are would help you, but I just don’t have the heart to do it when you’re obviously uncomfortable.”

She knew he was mocking her. If he wanted to do more, he could, and he knew it.

“To be honest, if I could give you a night you’d never forget I would, but the head thinks leaving you untouched is best.” He paused, watching her reaction. “I mean, best for our client. It’s not like you have to do this with everyone. Just the most influential clients. With Choso being our most powerful client at the moment, your services are needed.” He noticed the opened wine bottle in the kitchen and walked over to grab it. Without using a glass, he drank straight from the bottle. He let out a moan of satisfaction. “This is really fucking good.”

Alara followed him, keeping a safe distance. Her voice came out soft, barely above a whisper. “I was told ages ago that I would never have to do things like this.”

Geto shrugged. “And? You act as if laws and policies never change. I used to be the damn accountant before being moved up to this position! You will play your part like everyone else.”

“Or what?” Alara asked, her voice trembling. “What are you going to do to me?”

He took another swig. “Not what you think.” He reached into his pocket and pulled out a jewelry box, large enough for a bracelet. He pushed it across the island and continued to drink the wine.

Alara looked at the box, suspicion etched on her face. “Bribes?” She scoffed. “You want to bribe me?”

He gave a sideways smile that didn’t sit easy with her. “I wouldn’t consider this a bribe, baby. Open it.”

“No,” she argued, finding her voice more forcefully.

“It wasn’t an option. Open. The damn. Box.” His raised voice was enough to make her obey. She snatched the box from the counter, feeling how light it was. Opening it, she let out an ungodly scream that shook the building. The box fell to the floor, its contents spilling out. “Now why would you drop your gift like that?” Geto walked around the island, picking up everything that had fallen. He placed it back in the box and left it open on the counter for her to see.

“You see, Alara, we have ways of keeping you in your place. You usually stay in your lane. Giving up a little pussy isn’t going to kill you, but not listening to us when we warn you will kill you. Or should I say those around you. Do you not understand that?” He kept walking towards her, his speech uninterrupted. “If it makes you feel better, Choso isn’t ugly, and he doesn’t smell like Mahito. He can be a little weird but you’ll get past it. We can give you some drugs if that makes you feel better, but we also need you lucid.” He got in her face, his nose tip touching hers. “Based on your reaction, I think you finally got the message. So, let’s go over what you’re going to do tomorrow afternoon at two. Mahito is going to come over, pick you up, drop you off at the hotel, you do what Choso says, and then you come home. Hell, take the rest of the week off if you want.” Geto clapped his hands together, the sound startling her.

Her eyes were still glued to the box on the counter. Geto went over to it and put it in her face.

“Understand that this was us being nice.” He tossed the box on the couch and touched her face gently. “He’ll be gentle.” He unlocked the door and as he walked out, Alara reached out to him.

He turned, looking down at her delicate hands clutched to his arm. His empathy was barely existent, but seeing her head bowed and tears falling to the floor sparked a flicker of something close to pity.

“Please, tell me please… Is my sister okay? Is she still alive?”

He grabbed her hand and rubbed it. “She’s alive and safely back at her home. You might want to call her though. I’m sure she’s pissed at you for causing this.”

He walked out, allowing Alara to finally close the door and lock it. She fell to the ground, her sobs echoing in the empty home. She glanced at the contents of the box spread across her couch, her cries growing louder as the night went on.

There was truly no way out.

Nanami stared at the pictures from Alara’s most recent ventures. She had been taken back to the hotel and had complied the entire time. Her face was neutral, as if the soul had been taken out of her. From what he could find, the last five years of her life had been scrubbed from any records.

Gojo placed some papers on Nanami’s desk and sat down beside him. “How does someone go from a successful social media marketer to a dancer for a sketchy gang?” Gojo asked, still puzzled by her story. “Records show she’s lived in three different places, but I think they got someone to remove a bunch of other information about her.”

“Which means they have people working on the inside. Cops, judges, security…” Nanami’s mind went back to the first night he visited the lounge. “That thug, the guy with the tattoo across the bridge of his nose. We need to find out who he is.”

“I’ll search the database,” Gojo said, typing furiously on the computer.

Nanami felt his phone buzz and saw that it was from an unknown number. He was always reluctant to answer unknown calls, but he hoped it was from Alara.

“Kento,” he answered dryly.

He heard light breathing and waited patiently for a response. He knew it was her. For some reason, he held his breath. There was something about her that was mysterious beyond her dancer persona. Nanami went to one of the conference rooms to have more privacy.

“Alara,” his voice melted through the line, bringing her comfort. His heart quickened, an involuntary reaction whenever he thought of her.

“I shouldn’t have called you,” she whispered.

“But you did,” he replied softly. “Alara, whatever you need, I’m here to help you.”

“That’s the thing, detective. You can’t help me.”

“Alara,” he called again, his voice dripping with honey, causing Alara’s heart to race every time he said her name. She felt an unspoken connection, a warmth in his tone that made her chest tighten. “We can’t help you if you don’t let us. I can protect you.”

“And who will protect you?”

The line went silent after that. Her fears went beyond just her safety, and Nanami took note of that. “I can meet you somewhere, alone.”

“No,” she said. “I have too many eyes on me. I was stupid to call.” Before he could get another word in, she hung up.

Gojo barged into the room, carrying some photos with him. “The guy with the face tattoo was a marine. He went up the ranks and eventually retired. They brought him back on for national security. I’d bet good money they used her to get some type of deal or relationship. They’re aiming to corrupt the entire fucking national system and it all starts with this guy.”

“I have an idea,” Nanami said, still feeling the lingering warmth from his brief conversation with Alara. “But I need the feds to pull it off.”

“Are we talking an undercover mission?”

Nanami nodded. “That’s the only way we’ll be able to get solid evidence.”

As Gojo continued to talk, Nanami found his thoughts drifting back to Alara. Her voice, even in distress, had a soothing effect on him. He wanted to gain her trust, to show her that she wasn’t alone. The thought of her brought an unexpected flutter to his chest, a feeling he hadn’t experienced in a long time. He knew this wasn’t just about the case anymore; it was about protecting her, earning her trust, and maybe, just maybe, being the one she could rely on.

Alara was in her dressing room, staring at herself in the mirror. The hickeys on her neck had faded, and the bruises on her thighs had lightened. She had taken the last few days to recover from what had happened—not so much physically, but mentally. She felt violated, disgusted with herself. Nights were the hardest; she’d lie awake, haunted by the memory of Choso’s rough hands and cruel words. But when the stress of it all became too much, she could hear Nanami’s deep and melodic voice calling her name. Her fantasies had been filled with tender moments and passionate embrace with someone who cherished her. Someone like Nanami. But men like Choso only knew power and control. His touches felt like spikes, and no matter how handsome or rich he was, he was repulsive. The things he had said to her that night echoed in her mind, filthy and dehumanizing. Yet, she had managed to keep a straight face, long enough to survive. She played her part and she played it well.

Tonight, she had already danced twice, thanks to the influx of clients Choso had brought in. The lounge was at capacity, the air thick with the scent of cigars and musky cologne. The faces in the crowd varied from athletes to baby politicians, all basking in the decadence of Grey’s Den. She looked at her reflection, tracing her fingers over her cheek, mourning the woman she used to be. Tears threatened to spill, but she swallowed them down as Geto’s dark figure filled the doorway. He had been more involved with her affairs lately, ensuring she remembered her place.

She grabbed her lipstick and reapplied it with shaky hands. “What?” she snapped; her voice laced with frustration. Even the sound of his breathing irritated her.

“I’d think twice about how you talk to me,” he warned, his tone cold. “I’m just doing my job.”

“At least have a heart,” she pleaded, her eyes searching his for a glimmer of compassion. But there was none. This entire organization was devoid of empathy. They were all driven by money and power. She didn’t belong here.

Geto’s gaze remained locked on hers through the mirror, unyielding. “I guess you should brace yourself for more bad news. We have a new client who has requested a dance with you. According to security, he’s been here twice before, scoping the place.” Alara placed her lipstick down, her movements slow and deliberate.

“He what?”

“He said you’re familiar with him. After a little digging, it turns out this man is a billionaire from Denmark.”

“I’m not familiar with a billionaire. I think I’d remember that,” Alara argued, her voice trembling as she began fixing her hair. Geto stepped closer, his aura radiating dread.

“Most billionaires don’t announce themselves. Snipers are quite popular these days,” he said, his breath hot against her ear. “He is our most valuable client and you’re out most valuable player.”

“No!” Alara screamed, the word torn from her lips, filled with desperation. 

Geto slapped her across the face without hesitation. “When you say no, I look bad. I am in this position for a reason. Sometimes I think the head boss gives you too much freedom because you keep forgetting you’re still a classless bitch. This man slapped five million dollars on our desks. Came in with a full escort. You have no choice.”

Alara held her face, the sting of the slap radiating through her skull, leaving her dizzy and disoriented.

“Get your ass up and fix yourself. He’s expecting you in the Great Room.” Geto stormed out, leaving Alara to process the shocking violence she had just endured. She’d never been hit like this before. The little power she had was completely drained. She turned back to the mirror, her hand still pressed to her stinging cheek. She stared at herself, the tears she had been holding back finally spilling over. She had no choice but to comply. Her dreams of freedom seemed more distant than ever.

With a heavy heart, she fixed her makeup. She stared at her reflection, her mind a storm of fear and defiance. Then she forced herself to smile, a wide, dazzling grin that masked her turmoil. Like a starlet on the brink of her big break, she was ready to put on a performance. Slipping into her shawl and high heels, she walked out of the room and towards the back, ready to face whatever awaited her with a courage she didn’t feel.

Alara walked to the Great Room and saw Mahito standing by the door. She scoffed at his presence. Holding out a blindfold, he lifted it to her face. “According to the new client, he likes a little role-play. You’ll put this on. That way you won’t be able to see how grotesque he is.” She couldn’t tell if he was joking or not.

Alara scowled, imagining who this man could be. She had never seen anyone described as grotesque in the lounge. The fear she thought she had swallowed suddenly came back up with force. Grabbing the blindfold, she walked inside the Great Room. The lights were dimmed and lined with red neon. There was champagne on ice and two crystal wine glasses waiting to be used. Alara was tempted to chug the wine but decided against it. One thing she hated about these rooms was the lack of security. No cameras and soundproof. 

Putting on the blindfold, she stood in the middle of the room. She told herself she was just an actress, taking on another role for the masses. It would be fine. She’d be just fine. Alara’s legs shook as the door creaked open. The loud sound of the lock turning made her skin crawl. As the footsteps neared, a song came on—“Careless Whisper,” a classic. Alara waited for instructions of some sort, but to her surprise, they never came. Instead, she felt a pair of large hands touch her waist in the gentlest manner. Keeping his body a respectable distance, he finally spoke.

“Don’t panic,” he whispered softly in her ear. Alara gasped, unable to believe this was real.

“Is this a joke?” she replied, scared to remove her blindfold.

He turned her gently as they swayed. Pulling her closer, he removed the blindfold from her eyes. She froze, seeing the one person she’d been thinking about nonstop. Her words caught in her throat as tears began to flow.

“We have to infiltrate. This could take months, maybe a year. What I do know is that I need your help to get to the top.” He placed her hand in his, leaving a hand on her waist. He began slow dancing with her, wanting to make her feel safe. “Alara, I need you to trust me.”

She shook her head. “I can’t,” she said. “If they catch me—”

“You’re safe with me,” he assured her.

“Why do you want to help me?” she asked. “I don’t know the head boss or even the man under him. I’m useless.”

“Alara,” he called softly. Once again, the way he said her name caused an explosion of butterflies in her stomach. “I want to protect you. I don’t know your story, but what I do know is that you don’t belong here.” They stopped swaying as the music started coming to an end. “Play along.”

Nanami grabbed her hand and pulled her to the hallway. Mahito stopped playing on his phone and stared at the pair. “Oh shit, what did she do?”

“Nothing. Where’s Geto, the man with the hair?” Nanami said in a foreign accent. Alara’s face was still stained with tears, but she assumed Nanami wanted that before they dried.

“Keep your head down. Act sad,” Nanami whispered to her.

Mahito led them to an office where Geto was. He was counting money with the widest grin on his face until he saw Nanami with Alara. “Fuck, what did she do?”

Nanami glared at him. “You’re the second person to say that. Does she mess up a lot?” he asked in his strong accent.

Geto stood up and bowed profusely. “No, sir. She just has her moments.” Geto shot Alara a look and saw the tears on her face.

“I enjoyed my dance,” Nanami voiced. “How much for a night with her?”

Mahito and Geto looked at each other before letting their smiles spread across their faces. “As we’ve only done this once before, we’ll give you a discount. A million for the night.”

“How about this,” Nanami suggested. “Tomorrow, she’s mine for the whole day. And when I’m done, she’s on retainer. Meaning she’s not to be touched by anyone else. The moment I hear she’s been requested by another man, I will snatch back my money so fast you’ll get whiplash.” Alara looked at him in surprise. He was a pro at this. “Of course, I’ll pay handsomely. If I like what I get tomorrow, then I can see myself for the long haul. Or until I’m tired of her.”

“It’s a fucking deal,” Geto said with the biggest grin. Mahito was celebrating quietly in the corner as the men shook hands. Alara felt uneasy, feeling like this had to break some type of moral grounds and laws for cops. “Alara, you might want to take the night off. I’m sure Mr. Borges would like to pick you up bright and early tomorrow.”

“I can take her home as well,” Nanami replied. He took out a wad of cash and threw it at Geto. “Something for you, Mr. Suguru.”

Geto caught the cash, and his eyes had never been brighter. As they walked out, Nanami followed behind her closely. She couldn’t fully trust him yet; he had literally just bought her. None of this shit was normal and she was in fight or flight mode. Alara packed her items and stayed silent as Nanami stayed by the door.

“If this is a sick joke, I’m not laughing.” Alara was holding back tears once again, feeling a headache coming on from the stress.

“It’s not a joke,” he said. “When we get to your place, I’ll explain what I can. There are people waiting for you there anyway.”

She turned her head swiftly. “There are people at my apartment?”

“Not inside. Just trust me.”

The car ride home was pretty silent. Alara was hyper-focused on the road as Nanami drove.

“To save us some time when we get there, I’ll give you a rundown.” Nanami glanced over at Alara. She was spaced out and scared, her body still trembling from the shock of their encounter in the room. He could see the fear on her face, her eyes distant. “I brought this persona to the feds. We agreed that I’d go undercover since my existence on the internet is, well, nonexistent.” Alara didn’t flinch. Her eyes remained fixed straight ahead, unseeing.

“At your place, Gojo, my captain, and a few other men who are cosplaying as my security will be there. Basically, other detectives from different branches who are anonymous. Lastly, the Attorney General.”

“The Attorney General?” Alara’s voice quivered as panic set in. “The person under the President?”

Nanami looked over at her, finally making eye contact. “Yeah. I promise you, he’s on our side. I did my due diligence.”

Alara’s mind raced, her thoughts jumbled and chaotic. She didn’t care if the Attorney General was on their side or not. The thought of her secrets being uncovered and the possibility of being imprisoned with the men they were planning to take down made her stomach churn with dread. They pulled up to her place with Nanami’s fake security trailing behind them. Alara felt a surge of intimidation wash over her as the men flanked her.

As she walked to her door, they stayed close, an ever-present reminder of the gravity of the situation. She opened the door with trembling hands, her heart pounding in her chest. Soon after, the Attorney General and all of Nanami’s superiors walked in. Gojo, who had always seemed laid-back, now looked more serious than she had ever seen him.

Alara sat down on her couch, feeling the weight of their gazes on her. Every single one of them looked down at her, as if she were about to be punished. Nanami sat beside her and gave her a soft smile, his presence a small comfort amidst the unknown. The rest of the men took spots in her living room, pulling a few chairs from the dining area.

The Attorney General sat down across from Alara, his expression stern yet tired. He placed a briefcase and a tape recorder on the table in front of him.

“I’m Higuruma Hiromi. The reason I’m here is because you’re our key to the downfall of corruption across major cities and our government. What we’re up against are some pretty powerful players. You’re the only way to reach the top.”

Alara looked over at Nanami for assurance before she spoke. She felt like she could trust him to an extent but doubt still lingered in the corners of her mind. She took a deep breath and looked around the room, her gaze finally settling on Higuruma. “Some things you might find out about me could result in prosecution. If you want my help, I want full immunity for anything I say or anything you may find that I did that was illegal.”

“Did you murder someone or something?” Higuruma asked in a joking manner, trying to lighten the mood.

“Full immunity,” she demanded, her voice unwavering.

Higuruma glanced at Nanami, then back at her. “Full immunity is granted,” he stated firmly.

“And I want protection for my family,” Alara demanded again, her voice trembling but resolute.

“Does your family live in the city?” Higuruma asked, his tone shifting to one of concern.

“No. My sister lives a few cities over, and my parents are in the rural outskirts. I want protection for all of them during and after the fact,” she explained, her eyes pleading for understanding.

Higuruma nodded, accepting her terms without hesitation. “Full immunity and protection. Got it.”

“Don’t I sign something?” she asked, her voice softening, almost sweetly.

“It’s recorded, there’s no need, but paperwork will be sent your way,” Higuruma replied reassuringly.

“I’ll talk when the paperwork comes. Until then, the protection starts now.” Alara reached into her side table drawer and pulled out a small jewelry box. Her hands shook as she placed it on the coffee table. “The reason is because...” her voice trailed off, heavy with emotion. “They’ve already made it clear they’ll hurt or kill anyone around me if I go against them.” Alara couldn’t bear to look at the box any longer.

Gojo stepped forward, curiosity and concern written on his face. He opened the box, only to recoil in horror, covering his mouth. “Holy shit.”

“They took three of my sister’s fingers and gifted them to me. She won’t talk to me, and I can’t just throw them away.” Alara's voice broke, tears streaming down her face. She buried her head in her hands, her body wracked with sobs. The enormity of her situation, the constant fear, and the worry for her family had finally overwhelmed her. One of the agents took the box and placed it in a forensics bag, bringing slight relief to Alara’s burden.

Nanami reached out and placed a comforting hand on her back, his touch gentle and reassuring. “We’ll protect you, Alara. I promise.”

Higuruma nodded solemnly. “Your safety and your family’s safety are our top priorities. We need you to help us bring down this operation, and we’ll make sure you’re safe while doing so.”

Alara wiped her tears and took a shaky breath. “Alright. I’ll do it. But I need those papers, and I need them fast.”

“We’ll have them by tomorrow,” Higuruma assured her. “For now, rest. We’ll have agents outside your apartment all night.”

“That’ll set off alarms,” she cried, feeling as though her fate has already been sealed. “I’ll be fine.”

As everyone filed out of the room, Alara clung to Nanami, her chest tightening with fear and anxiety. He looked down at her hands wrapped around his arm, noticing how her glossy eyes shimmered in the light, reflecting her gratitude. Turning to her, he took the chance to hold her close, his arms encircling her protectively. His feelings for her hadn’t waned; if anything, they had only grown stronger. But he knew he had to tread carefully, to not cross a line. At least, he’d try not to.

“Thank you,” she sobbed into his chest, her voice muffled but full of raw emotion. “Thank you.”

Nanami held her tighter, taking in all of her gratitude in this moment. He stroked her hair gently, offering what comfort he could. “You’re safe with me, Alara. I promise.”

+18

Warning: Graphic language, sex, smut. sexual themes, violence.

Previous Chapter

Chapter 1

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Alara's Dance (Chapter 2)

Alara stared at the business card Nanami had given her. She had looked him up online but found no mention of him. Not even the precinct listed him. She grabbed her wine and placed it against her lips, freezing in that moment as she realized she had been drinking more than usual. The days seemed to drag on, not because she wasn’t busy, but because she hadn’t been able to sleep. Her mind raced day and night over the anxiety she was trapped in. She glanced at her favorite photo framed on her end table.

Her penthouse, perched high above the big city, was a study in opulence. Floor-to-ceiling windows offered a panoramic view of the skyline, with its glittering lights stretching out into the distance. Sleek, modern furniture filled the space, each piece meticulously chosen for its elegance and comfort. The walls were adorned with abstract art and a portrait gifted to her. 

Tears flowed seamlessly as she thought about her life before this. It had been so easy and enjoyable. Now she was stuck at a dead end with no way out. She was trapped here. Wiping away her tears, she grabbed the wine and poured the rest down the sink. If she could give all of this up, she would. The spotless penthouse with a perfect overlook of the city wasn’t nearly enough to make up for what she’d done. She looked back at the card and felt the urge to call Nanami.

“No,” she whispered to herself, fighting the urge. She picked up the card and put it in her side table drawer. “Out of sight, out of mind.”

A knock was heard at her door. It was authoritative, menacing as always. She knew who it was. Fixing her dress, she walked over and opened the door without looking through the peephole.

“Alara Hollymore,” the ugly grey-haired fiend said to her. “Can I come in?” She moved to the side, and he swaggered in, smelling of corn chips and cheap cologne. Her heart sank as Mahito entered, his very presence a violation of the sanctity she tried to maintain in her home.

“What?” Alara barked, her voice tinged with frustration and fear.

Mahito turned around, his face a mask of confusion. “What is with the attitude? I just wanted to stop by.”

“You want something.”

He smirked, his grin more devilish than usual. “I want that nice ass of yours, but the boss said no one can touch you. I don’t know how you managed that but I think your luck has ran out tonight.”

Alara let out a slight chuckle, though her heart pounded in her chest. “If he wants me to deliver again, I’m not doing it.”

“That, I know, isn’t your choice.” Mahito motioned for his other men to come in. The intrusion of more bodies into her space made her skin crawl. “The new client, Choso. He happens to be part of our great country’s security. If we get him on our good side, we could corrupt the entire government. It takes one seed.”

“I think there are more people against the corruption than y’all think,” Alara replied, covering her large chest from the wandering eyes.

Mahito shrugged. “He’s putting his whole job on the line. He’s also putting our entire system in danger since he knows so much about it.” Mahito tilted his head, allowing his long grey locks to fall into his face. “If we don’t lock him in and make him happy, he could destroy everything. I’m talking people in prison. Half of us will probably be cleaned out. Killed.” He snapped his fingers. “Everything you enjoy will be gone. This penthouse, your family. Gone.” He pushed his hair out of his face and gave a disturbing grin, noticing her uneasy expression. “We already know you’ll suffer in prison. For what you did to one of our leaders, you have a lifetime of debt to us, do you not?”

He began circling her, reminding her of how she got here. “We know what you love most. Between that and your family, we own you.” He walked closer to her, slipped off her bonnet, and sniffed her hair, taking in her elegant scent, wanting to drink her up. “How lucky the few men who get to touch you are.” His breath smelled as if he was chewing on wood. He had a fetid odor, mixed with the underlying smell of nicotine from the three packs he smokes a day. “You’re going to shower and do your makeup. Make yourself enticing.” His voice dropped to a sticky whisper that made her feel ill. “My boss got a message from his boss, who got a message from his boss, that you need to fulfill this order. Under any circumstances. Understood?”

“And if I don’t?” Alara asked, her voice barely a whisper, knowing what the answer would be.

Mahito laughed and stepped away from her. “You already know.”

The odds were against her. She couldn’t stand the touch of another man. The one thing she had control over was her body. Now it sounded like she was losing it.

“I’ll go shower,” she breathed, walking away defeated.

As she stepped into the bathroom, the cold marble and gleaming fixtures felt like they could be snatched from her at any moment. The mirror reflected a woman she barely recognized; a woman who had been forced to do unspeakable things. She turned on the shower, the steam filling the room and momentarily obscuring her reflection. For a moment, she let herself imagine what it would be like to call Nanami, to escape this life. But as the hot water cascaded over her, washing away the makeup and grime, she knew that her options were slim. She knew that contacting him would do nothing to alleviate her from this devastating life. It would only bring on more pain.

The weight of her situation pressed down on her, heavier than the water pounding against her skin. She had to comply. For now.

Gojo stared at his phone as incoming text messages bombarded his screen. He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. "This woman from last night is blowing up my phone."

"You obviously did something to her," Nanami replied, keeping a close watch on Alara's apartment. They observed a group of men entering the building, fitting the profile of street thugs. The tension in Nanami's body was tight as he continously clenched his jaw out of habit.

"I didn’t do anything but sleep with her and slip out before she woke up. She acts like she’s never had a one-night stand before."

"Maybe women want to be treated with care," Nanami said, smirking at his partner. His gaze remained fixed on the entrance, but his mind wandered to Alara. Ever since their encounter, she had occupied his thoughts more than he cared to admit. "Ever thought about being nicer?"

Gojo turned off his phone, the screen going dark. "I am nice. It’s not like I promised her the world. I picked her up at a bar, for God’s sake."

Nanami chuckled, though it lacked humor. He couldn’t fathom Gojo's cavalier attitude towards relationships. They had risen through the ranks together over the past five years, and while Gojo was kind-hearted, his carelessness with women baffled Nanami. "You think we should go in?" he asked, his eyes never leaving the entrance. He counted the stories and pinpointed Alara's penthouse, noting the men moving about inside through the large windows. Each movement seemed to heighten his anxiety, a gnawing feeling that he couldn't shake.

"No. Alara is an asset to these people. She’d have to be a bigger threat to be killed or hurt." Gojo looked out at the empty street, lined with sketchy cars. Every car that entered the private garage was top-of-the-line, each worth well over five hundred thousand dollars. "I feel like they get her to do the dirty work."

"Something is off about that," Nanami shook his head, remembering her dance. The image of her graceful movements and commanding presence replayed in his mind. "She has a lot of control, and I think she’s in on all of this. She’s part of this ring." His voice betrayed a hint of uncertainty, a crack in his usually unyielding facade.

"What the hell is an exotic dancer going to do? Lap dance her clients to death?"

Nanami saw the lights go out in the penthouse and sat up straight. His heart rate quickened, a mix of adrenaline and something more personal. "She may lead these men. It’s not surprising for the most unsuspecting person to be the head." He turned on his unmarked car but kept the headlights off to avoid drawing attention. Alara emerged with her hair done and makeup different from when she had entered. "I thought the lounge was closed on Monday nights."

"It is," Gojo replied, eyeing the men behind her. There was the sleazy gray-haired one and three big burly men, likely security. Alara kept her head down as they walked to the car. Her expression told a story Nanami felt he couldn’t decipher, but he sensed fear and resignation in her movements.

They followed the car from a safe distance, maintaining their cover. Gojo took note of the license plate number and dialed Yuta back at the precinct, asking him to run the plates and match the owner with any descriptions of the men in the car with Alara.

Nanami remained focused, his attention unwavering. The truck pulled into the business district, stopping at the luxurious Ladan Hotel, known for its high-end rooms and events. They parked at a back entrance, and Nanami parked nearby, only able to see a sliver of movement. Each passing moment felt like an eternity, the uncertainty gnawing at him.

"She’s getting out," Nanami whispered, as if someone else could hear them. His eyes tracked her every movement, an almost protective instinct rising within him.

"Let’s stay here. If we go in, it’d be suspicious," Gojo said. "Do you think she’s dealing business or providing service?"

"I don’t know," Nanami replied, exasperated. His mind was a whirlwind of conflicting emotions—professional duty clashing with a growing personal concern for Alara.

Gojo noticed that Nanami had been acting differently since the night they went back to the lounge. "Did she say something to you? Threaten you?"

"No," Nanami scoffed, but his voice wavered slightly.

"What is it? Because the hyperfixation is coming off a little..."

"A little what?" Nanami asked, looking over at Gojo. "I just want this ring to stop terrorizing our city."

Gojo scrutinized his partner before letting out a chuckle. "I think that lap dance left a lasting impression. I get it, man. She’s the finest thing walking this city. You’re a lucky guy."

"I don’t find terrorists attractive," Nanami said, his eyes locked on the hotel windows, trying to guess where she might be. Yet, deep down, he couldn't deny the impact she had on him. Her strength and sensual aura stirred something within him he hadn't felt in a long time.

"You keep telling yourself that," Gojo said, smirking. He could sense there was more to Nanami's obsession than just professional duty.

As Alara stepped out of the car, her heart pounded with dread and apprehension. The Ladan Hotel towered above her, a beacon of luxury and lavishness. Mahito's men flanked her, their imposing presence a reminder of the consequences of failure. The air was thick and suffocating as they moved through the hotel's back entrance, avoiding the cameras with practiced ease.

Her thoughts raced as they ascended in the private elevator. She glanced at Mahito, his expression as seedy as ever. The nasty smirk that graced his lips dripped with a poison only bottom feeders like him had. Her expression was the opposite though. Pleading with her eyes to take her home. She knew better than to hope for sympathy from him. The fear clawed at her insides, threatening to consume her. Every high heeled step felt like a march toward her doom. The elevator doors opened, revealing a lavish hallway that led to the suite. Mahito walked her to the door, his cold gaze making her shiver.

"Remember, Alara," he said, his voice low and menacing. "Make him happy. You know the consequences if you don't."

She nodded, unable to trust her voice. The door clicked shut behind her, leaving her alone in the extravagant suite. The beauty of the surroundings did little to soothe her nerves. She was here for a purpose, one that made her stomach churn. She had on a short dress that hugged her curves and untied at the front, making it easy to remove.

Choso stood by the window, his back to her. Dressed in grey sweats and no shirt, his muscular frame was a testament to his past as a marine. The sight of him, tall and daunting, only heightened her anxiety. He turned to face her, his eyes dark and unreadable. The tattoo across his nose made him look scarier than most men and the dark circles under his eyes made his brooding look even more intimidating.

"Alara," he said, his voice a deep rumble. "I’ve heard a lot about your private dances. The one at the lounge was more than inviting. I can only imagine what this one will look like."

She forced a smile, her body tense with the effort. "I hope I can live up to your expectations."

He gestured to a chair in the center of the room. As he walked to the chair, he looked her up and down, setting the mood for himself. "Whenever you’re ready." He took a seat in the chair, waiting for her to begin. He leaned back, legs spread and ready for Alara’s body.

Alara took a deep breath, pushing down her fear. This was her role, her way of surviving. She moved to the center of the room, the soft light casting a golden hue on her skin. The music began, a slow, sensual beat that seemed to pulse with her heartbeat. She swayed her hips, letting the rhythm take over. Choso’s eyes followed every single movement, teasing the lust within him.

As she danced, she felt a shift within her. The fear began to melt away, replaced by a sense of control. This was her domain, her stage. She moved with grace and allure, her body a fluid extension of the music. She circled Choso, her fingers grazing his broad shoulders as she leaned in close, her breath warm against his neck. His eyes followed her every move, a predator watching his prey.

She straddled his lap, her hips riding to the beat. She could feel his muscles tense beneath her touch, his breath quickening. He let his hands hold her waist as bounced up and down in his lap, making him grow a little more excited. Her hands roamed over his chest, tracing the lines of his tattoos. She pressed herself against him, her lips brushing his ear as she whispered sweet nothings, the words meaningless but the tone intoxicating. She could feel him getting hard, resisting the urge to do more to her.

Her dress slipped off with ease, leaving her in nothing but her lingerie. A bralette that teased the circles of her plump nipples and underwear that gave a peak of the pretty pussy he’s been thinking about since he first saw her.

Her movements were slow, deliberate, designed to tease and entice. She could see the effect she was having on him. His breathing heavy, his lips moist from having to lick them so much… he was turned on. She arched her back, her hair cascading down in a waterfall of silky curls. Her fingers trailed down his abdomen, and she could feel the heat radiating from his skin.

Choso's hands gripped the cloth of his pants, his knuckles white. He was holding back, allowing her to maintain control, but she could feel the pressure growing within him. She leaned in, her lips inches from his, her eyes locking onto his with a smoldering intensity.

The dance was a game of power, a delicate balance of seduction and submission. She could feel the change in the air, the way his control was slipping. She pressed her body closer, her movements more intimate, her breath mingling with his.

For a moment, she forgot the danger, the threats. It was just the two of them, a man and a woman exchanging one thing for another. She could see the flicker of something more in his eyes, something beyond lust. It was fleeting, but it was enough.

As the music slowed, she brought the dance to a close, her bottom in his lap and her hands in his hair. She looked into his eyes, searching for any sign of approval, any hint that she had succeeded.

Choso's gaze softened, and he nodded, a small, almost insignificant gesture. Relief washed over her, but she didn't let it show. She maintained her composure, knowing that the performance was never truly over.

"Good," he said, his voice a husky whisper. "You’ve convinced me."

She stood up, her legs trembling slightly. She had done it. For now, she had bought herself more time. She grabbed her dress, slipped it on and walked to the door, happy that this was over. As she reached for the handle, Choso's voice stopped her.

"Alara," he said. "I paid good money for this dance. You don’t think that’s all I paid for, do you?”

Alara's heart sank as Choso's expression shifted, his eyes had an unmistakable intent. She had hoped the dance would be enough, but the look on his face told her otherwise.

"You know, Alara," Choso said, his voice smooth yet predatory, "your dance was captivating. But to seal the deal, I need something more... intimate."

Her breath caught in her throat. She had feared this moment, the unspoken demand that lurked behind every transaction in this dark world. Mahito had made it clear: failure was not an option. She had a lot to lose—her freedom, her family, her life.

Choso stood up and approached her, his striking frame towering over her. His hand brushed against her arm, sending a shiver of horror down her spine. "Don't be afraid," he murmured, leaning in closer. "This is just business."

Her body went rigid, every muscle tensing as his fingers traced a path along her shoulder. She tried to summon the strength to push him away, but fear paralyzed her. Choso's hand slid to her waist, pulling her against him, and she felt his hot breath on her neck and his erect penis on her stomach.

He began sucking lightly on her neck, cupping her ass cheek as he rubbed himself against her. Panic surged through her, a primal instinct to escape. When his hand began to wander further between her legs, something inside her snapped. With a surge of adrenaline, she swung her arm, her fist connecting with his jaw in a desperate, instinctual punch. Choso staggered back, shock and anger flashing across his face. He touched his lip and looked down to see blood on his fingers.

“You fucking bitch!”

Alara didn't wait to see his reaction. She bolted for the door, her heart pounding in her ears. She fumbled with the lock, her hands trembling. She could hear Choso's heavy footsteps behind her, a growl of rage escaping his lips.

"Get back here!" he shouted, but she was already out the door, sprinting down the lavish hallway. She didn't care where she was going; she just needed to get away. The elevator was too slow, so she took the stairs, her heels clattering against the concrete steps as she descended as fast as she could.

She reached the ground floor, bursting through the door into the hotel's back entrance. Mahito and his men were waiting, their faces twisted in confusion and anger. She ignored their shouts, pushing past them and running into the night.

Gojo’s eyes narrowed as he saw Alara’s frame running out of the back door. “Nanami, that’s her. She’s running.”

Nanami got out of his car and Gojo followed him, pulling him back. “We can’t interfere yet.” He pulled on Nanami’s shoulder, motioning him to return to the car in fear of being seen. Nanami’s eyes followed Alara as Mahito caught up to her and dragged her back into their car. It drove off back in the direction of her home, leaving Nanami and Gojo feeling helpless and frustrated.

“Dammit,” Nanami muttered under his breath, clenching his fists. “We have to do something. She’s in real danger.”

“I know,” Gojo replied, his tone serious. “But we can’t blow our cover. We need to be smart about this.”

They tailed Mahito's car, maintaining a safe distance once again. Nanami’s mind raced with conflicting emotions. The image of Alara’s terrified face was burned into his memory. He felt an overwhelming urge to protect her, yet he knew he had to remain rational. He couldn’t afford to let his feelings jeopardize the mission.

As they reached Alara’s apartment, they parked discreetly, watching as Mahito forcibly escorted her inside. Her resistance was evident, but Mahito’s grip was unyielding. The door slammed shut behind them.

Inside, Alara was thrown onto the couch, Mahito’s eyes burning with fury. “What the hell were you thinking?” he snarled, pacing back and forth. “Do you have any idea what you’ve done?”

Alara’s heart pounded in her chest, her breath coming in ragged gasps. “I couldn’t do it,” she whispered, tears streaming down her face. “I can’t go through with this anymore.”

Mahito’s hand shot out, gripping her chin painfully, forcing her to look at him. “You don’t have a choice,” he hissed. “You belong to us. And you will do whatever it takes to keep us happy. Do you understand?”

She nodded weakly; the fight drained out of her. She felt trapped, a pawn in a dangerous game with no escape in sight.

Mahito’s phone rang and he saw Geto’s name light up. It’s not only Alara’s ass on the line but his as well. “Fuck.” He answered it and winced as Geto’s loud voice echoed through the phone’s speaker. Alara stared as Mahito glanced at her with the same fear she had earlier in her eyes. “Yes sir.” He hung up and motioned for the guards to leave with him.

Alara stood up and pleaded, “What did he say?”

Mahito gave a menacing look of hatred that no enemy could replicate. “He’ll see you tomorrow. Don’t come into work. He’ll come here. If you leave, he kills your sister.”

Her eyes widened and she felt her breath become caught in her throat. Sitting back down on her couch, she began to cry, stuck in this never-ending loop of fear.

Outside, Nanami and Gojo continued their vigil. Nanami’s frustration grew with each passing minute. He wanted to storm in, but he knew Gojo was right. They had to be patient, to wait for the right moment.

“We need a plan,” Nanami said, his voice tense. “We can’t just sit here and do nothing.”

Gojo nodded. “Agreed. Let’s regroup and figure out our next move. We’ll get her out of this, but we have to be careful.” They watched as the group left Alara’s apartment with her nowhere in sight. “They didn’t stay long. I think she’s fine.”

As they drove away, Nanami could only think of Alara and the fear that was plastered on her face. He couldn’t shake the feeling that she was more than just a target in their investigation. She was a victim.

Back in her apartment, Alara curled up on the couch, her body trembling. She felt utterly defeated, her hopes of escape dashed. But deep down, a spark of defiance remained. She had to find a way out, to break free from these people.

Decided to post this (again) but in full. I wrote this last year and by no means inspired by anything in the real world. I do cherish this fic, so I want to share it here. If you want to read in full and not wait for chapters, it's all available on AO3. :) Will post 3 chapters weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Synopsis: (18+) Alara is a dancer entangled in a drug trafficking ring that has taken over the city, leading to multiple murders, with all signs pointing to her involvement. When she meets headstrong detective Nanami Kento, they find themselves struggling against a natural attraction toward each other.

As their paths cross, Alara reveals she's being forced to be part of the drug ring and offers to help take it down in exchange for protection. This story follows her and Nanami's tumultuous love story as they confront the city's most dangerous criminals.

Fueled by passion, sex, and violence, Nanami and Alara discover they gain more from each other than they ever imagined. Together, they navigate a perilous world, their bond strengthening as they face constant danger and deception.

Warning: Graphic language, sex, smut. sexual themes, violence.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Alara's Dance (Chapter 1)

The precinct buzzed with activity, the low murmur of voices blending with the occasional ring of phones. The space was serious and efficient, designed to handle high-profile cases without being overly luxurious. Desks were arranged in neat rows, each cluttered with paperwork, coffee mugs, and the personal touches of the detectives who inhabited them. The walls were lined with whiteboards filled with case notes and photographs, a constant reminder of the work yet to be done.

“There has been another murder on our streets,” Captain Hoda announced, his voice firm as he addressed the assembled officers. “Kota City has been swamped with merciless killings and an influx of drugs being pushed through clubs and now our local businesses.” His gaze settled on Nanami, who sat quietly, processing the gravity of the recent news. “Nanami will be my lead detective. After that bust last week, I have full confidence you can help bring our city back to how it was.”

Nanami nodded solemnly, his thoughts already racing ahead to the case. He glanced at his partner, Gojo, who was, as always, ready with a light-hearted comment. They had been chasing leads for a year now, but the ringleader remained elusive. As the briefing ended and the detectives returned to their work, Gojo leaned over and whispered to Nanami.

“Instead of working late tonight, you should come with me on a double date. I met this girl, smoking body, huge—”

“Are you trying to set me up with her?” Nanami interrupted, already weary of Gojo's antics.

Gojo leaned back in his chair, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. “She’s a twin. And when I say identical, I mean identical. One for me, one for you. We get drunk, take them home, and then we really take them home if you catch my drift.”

“One day you’ll get tired of sleeping around with random women,” Nanami replied, grabbing his coffee and keys, signaling the end of his day.

Gojo chuckled, grabbing his own keys as he followed Nanami through the bustling halls of the precinct. “With our job, men don’t tend to settle down. And when they do, they’re usually serial cheaters. Mark, Zander, you name it. Yuta may be the only solid guy.”

“I just don’t want to meet up with anyone,” Nanami said, his tone firm.

“You have pent-up anger, frustration, and maybe a little anxiety. I think a drink with a lovely woman could help,” Gojo suggested with a cheeky grin plastered over his face. 

Nanami clocked out, rubbing his temples as the day's stress began to weigh on him. “I’ll go because you’re buying the drinks.”

“Hey, as long as you’re out,” Gojo replied, his grin widening.

That night, Nanami reluctantly decided to meet Gojo at his favorite spot, Grey’s Den. It was an upscale lounge with elegant décor, exuding a warm and inviting atmosphere. The walls were a rich wine red, accented with clean white trim, and dark brown tables added a cozy, homey touch. The lighting was soft, casting a gentle glow over the patrons. The music was low and romantic, setting a sophisticated ambiance. Some nights featured dancers, but tonight was quieter, with customers engrossed in hushed conversations.

Nanami wasn’t fond of going out; typically, he would be at home, nose deep in case files, his mind churning with theories and clues. This rare social outing left him with an itch to just turn around and walk back home. As he approached the entrance, he couldn’t shake the feeling of unease, a sense that he was out of place in this world of leisure and pleasure.

“Nanamin!” Gojo’s voice rang out from across the street. He waited impatiently for a car to pass before running over to Nanami. Dressed in all black, Gojo looked dapper, every bit the picture of confidence and charm. In contrast, Nanami still appeared as though he was on the job, his attire practical and unadorned.

“This is a classier place. You think looking like a fucking cop is the best outfit to be out in?” Gojo teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

“That means people won’t cross me,” Nanami replied dryly, his tone devoid of humor. “Where are these girls? I’m not keen on staying out too late.”

“Relax,” Gojo sang, his voice carrying an easy confidence that Nanami envied. “They’re already inside. I need you to not be a stickler tonight.” He wrapped his arm around his friend’s neck, guiding him inside.

Sitting at the bar were two women who were unmistakably twins. In a place like this, their identical appearance stood out, drawing attention. The girls were tall blondes with large breasts and lips obviously enhanced with fillers. They exuded a kind of overt sexuality that Nanami found off-putting, but he was determined to play along for Gojo’s sake.

“Gojo, you didn’t tell us your friend was so rugged,” one of the twins said, her voice dripping with flirtation. She ran her hand up Nanami’s muscular arm, her touch light and teasing. “I think we’ll have a good night together.”

Nanami forced a smile, though inside he felt a mix of discomfort and resignation. He was used to being in control, used to the structured chaos of his work, not the unpredictable nature of social interactions. He felt like a fish out of water, but he reminded himself that he was here for Gojo, his friend who seemed to thrive in these situations.

As he took a seat at the bar, Nanami’s mind wandered back to the cases waiting for him, the unsolved mysteries that gnawed at his thoughts. But tonight, he would try—if only for a few hours—to leave those thoughts behind and play the part of a man enjoying a night out.

In the back rooms of Grey’s Den, a woman was fixing her hair and staring into the vanity. Tonight wasn’t supposed to be a dancer’s night, but apparently, there would be a special client coming in.

“Alara?” Her name was called, and she turned to see one of the security guards by the door. “You’re on in five.”

Alara nodded, turning back to scrutinize her appearance. Her hair had grown long, flowing past her shoulders and down her back. Freckles adorned her face, usually hidden under layers of makeup, but tonight she had to improvise with loose powder, having forgotten her foundation. Her eyes popped, accentuated by the new mascara and dark eyeliner she had applied. She stood up, admiring her physique in the mirror. She worked out daily and felt a sense of pride knowing she had achieved her look naturally, unlike some of the other girls who resorted to cosmetic enhancements. Not that anything was wrong with it, but it made Alara feel really good about herself. Taking her jacket, she put it on and began rehearsing her steps in her head.

The dancing at Grey’s Den was similar to burlesque. Women performed routines, either solo or as a group, dancing to a song and telling a story through their movements. Selling their sensuality was the key, enticing the rich patrons who frequented the fancy lounge. Alara was special, though. She had rich, clear skin, big doe eyes, an hourglass figure, and a small waist. Taller than most of the other girls, she stood out even more—a woman who could easily model in a magazine, dancing for their entertainment seemed to turn a lot of people on. She could be anything, anyone, and be... anywhere. But in the midst of it all, she was here and she was the hot commodity.

Some women offered other services, inviting men to the back of the club to their special rooms. But for Alara, this was off-limits. Being the star, the prize, had its perks. Men ached for her because she was untouchable, not just because her boss wouldn’t allow it, but also because she loved the policy. She never wanted a strange man to touch her; in fact, she hated a man’s touch.

With her trench coat on and a wide-brimmed hat, she stepped onto the stage like a detective ready to pounce. The music started, the spotlight focused on the stage, and voices hushed. Alara walked onto the stage, stepping one high-heeled boot in front of the other. Listening to the rhythm, she began dancing. Her head was down, focusing on her steps. Her body swayed sexily, making the locals recognize her immediately.

She removed her hat, taking in the faces in the crowd. Some were new, some were regulars, but all eyes were on her. A chair sat at the front of the stage, waiting for her to continue. She strut around it, letting her fingertips lightly tap along the back of the chair. The crowd held their breath as she reached down to loosen the jacket. Showing a peek of her shoulder caused the men in the front to ignore their dates. Looking over her shoulder, she saw the heavy hitter she was told about: a man named Choso. He was unique-looking, intense, with a tattooed line across the bridge of his nose. He was seated with a group of men who looked incredibly intimidating.

Locking eyes with him, Alara stripped down, removing her jacket to reveal bright yellow lingerie that contrasted beautifully against her dark skin. The crowd exhaled in unison, enjoying the view. Choso looked pleased, his eyes roving appreciatively over her body as she danced. Even though he was a little further back, Alara could feel his gaze following her every move. As her hips swayed left and right, his eyes never left her. She glanced over at the bar to give her friend a look but was distracted by someone else.

A blonde man sat at the bar alone, watching Alara carefully. She narrowed her eyes and saw that he wasn’t admiring her the way the rest of the crowd was. He was studying her. His brows were furrowed, and his eyes were fixated on her snake tattoo that wrapped around her thigh and down to her knee. When he finally looked up, she felt a strange unease. Not necessarily a bad feeling, but something different. As she neared the end of her dance, she looked back over at Choso, whose eyes had never wavered.

Applause erupted as Alara threw her head back, her chest heaving as she tried to catch her breath. The sweat on her skin rolled down her chest, leaving a glistening glow that mesmerized the eyes of the patrons. As she left the stage, her eyes shifted to the bar. The blonde man was now accompanied by a white-haired man with blue eyes. The white-haired guy was talking to him but had his eyes on her. However, the blonde guy had his back turned, sipping on a whiskey. He was definitely different from the others. She walked off the stage and smiled as the applause continued.

Back at the bar, Gojo was still mesmerized by the performance. He had almost forgotten his annoyance with Nanami for scaring their dates off. “You’re lucky Alara did her dance tonight. Why would you ignore a hot twin?”

Nanami chuckled. “She wasn’t my type. Vapid, shallow, and blonde.”

“You’re blonde!” Gojo exclaimed. “How can you not like other blondes? And she has dark roots, so she’s naturally a brunette anyway.”

Nanami ignored his comments, his mind wandering. “Doesn’t Alara look familiar to you?”

“Everyone knows Alara,” Gojo said. “She’s famous for her dancing and being sexy. If you could see the photos she posts on her socials…” Gojo bit his knuckles. “The things I would do to that woman.”

“In our case files, there was a witness who mentioned that a woman with a snake tattoo was one of the last people to see one of our murder victims alive.”

“And?” Gojo asked. “You think she’s the only woman in this big city with a snake tattoo?”

“They said the snake was tattooed black with a dark red eye, and the tail was a rattle. Rattlesnakes aren’t common here,” Nanami finished, his tone serious and contemplative.

Gojo smirked. “Maybe we should talk to the captain about going undercover then.”

Nanami rolled his eyes. “We need to gather more information. Maybe a stakeout or something. I have a feeling about her.”

Gojo chugged down his drink. “I do too, and my feeling is easier to get rid of,” he said, pointing to the bulge in his pants.

Nanami looked away, disgusted by his friend’s behavior. He eyed the side door where the elites usually brought girls in and out. Then he saw her, Alara. She was donned in a mini dress with a slit on the thigh, thigh-high boots completing her ensemble. She commanded the room as she walked around, a man with pink hair following her closely, signaling to the customers to keep their distance. She approached the man with the tattoo on his face and began chatting with him. Nanami couldn’t shake the feeling that she was part of this ring of criminals. A woman like her could give people leverage, seducing even the hardest of criminals and locking in some of the highest-paying clients with just the sway of her hips.

She made her way around the room, slowly sauntering like the goddess she was. Arriving at the bar, she ordered a B-52 shot. With her guard close behind her, she looked over at Nanami, who kept his eyes forward. Gojo, on the other hand, stared her down like a ravenous dog.

Nanami’s thoughts were a swirl of skepticism and intrigue. Alara’s presence at Grey’s Den was no coincidence, and he couldn’t ignore the connection to their case. As much as her beauty captivated the crowd, he sensed something deeper and potentially dangerous about her. His instincts told him she wasn’t just another dancer—she was somehow entangled in the corruption he was determined to uncover.

“Ms. Alara, I must say that you are an amazing entertainer. I just love the way you—” Gojo began, his voice dripping with adoration.

“Your friend,” she interrupted, her gaze sharp and direct. “The tired blonde with the bags under his eyes. What’s his deal?”

“My friend?” Gojo laid a strong hand on Nanami’s shoulder. “This is my buddy Nanami. He doesn’t go out much.”

“I see,” Alara replied, her tone curious but guarded. Beneath her confident exterior, she felt a flicker of uncertainty. There was something about Nanami that unnerved her—his intense stare, the way he seemed to see right through her. “Can you meet me in the back room?”

Gojo clapped his hands together. “Oh sweet mercy! Yes. I will follow you anywhere.”

“Not you, your friend.”

Nanami finally looked at her, pushing his empty glass to the side. Up close, she was even more striking, her presence almost overwhelming. But he couldn’t let himself be swayed by her allure. “No thanks,” he said flatly, standing up. Alara stepped in front of him, her eyes challenging.

“People don’t tell me no. Especially men.”

“First time for everything, right?” Nanami replied, walking off. He couldn’t afford to be distracted by her, not with so much at stake.

Gojo stood up and walked over to Alara, trying to salvage the moment. “I can go back there with you if you still need someone.”

She scoffed and walked away from him, her confidence masking the turmoil she felt from her interaction with Nanami. There was something different about him, something that made her pulse quicken—not with fear, but with a strange anticipation. As she moved through the crowd, she couldn’t shake the feeling that their paths would cross again, and when they did, it would change everything.

The next day, Nanami found himself in a conference room, facing the Captain, Commander, Director General, and Gojo. Alara's face was plastered on the screen behind them.

"Should I be worried?" Nanami asked, his tone wary.

"On the contrary," the Director General replied. "Detective Satoru told us about your night out last night." Nanami shot a look at Gojo, but his friend simply put his hands up in mock surrender. "It seems like one of our suspects in this major case is fond of you."

Nanami took off his jacket, his mind racing. "Are you referring to Alara?"

Captain Hoda gestured for everyone to sit. "Please, everyone, take a seat." Once they were settled, he continued, "Gojo told us everything you shared with him. I called the Director and Commander because we needed to come up with a plan. There was a murder last night, and the assailant covered the body in bad coke. We suspect it was a deal gone wrong. After revisiting all our bases, we found out that a few of those faces frequented Grey’s Den. Alara’s appearance has been described twice in our notes."

Gojo picked up the thread. "I told them that you wanted to stake her out. Figure out if she has a role in this. She’s our only lead."

Nanami nodded thoughtfully. "From what I saw, there was a rich guy with a tattoo across his face. My theory is that she seduces or dances for these people to get them to buy in or something. They have a back room where some of the elites go, and the girls service them." He leaned back in his seat, trying to recall more details from that night. "Gojo mentioned that this was a night when dancers aren’t usually performing."

"Yeah," Gojo confirmed. "I found that pretty odd."

"You said she invited you to the back rooms?" Captain Hoda asked. "Go back tonight. See if she’ll do it again." They all stood up, and he pointed at Gojo. "And take Detective Satoru. I know he’s been itching to go back to that place."

Gojo pursed his lips, waiting for their leaders to leave. Once they were alone, he turned to Nanami with a grin. "I have an all-black outfit with your name on it. Are you ready to transform into a pretty princess?"

Nanami smirked. "I’ll wear anything, as long as it’s not a size small."

The boys appeared at the club dressed in their finest clothes. Gojo sported a full black suit with a red tie, while Nanami opted for a black button-down and black slacks.

"Could this shirt be any tighter?" Nanami grumbled, tugging at the fabric.

Gojo groaned. "Suck it up. If you’d stop working out so much, your man boobies wouldn’t be so big." He spotted a woman across the room who was giving him a seductive look. "Now, if you excuse me, I’m going to arrange my plans tonight."

"We’re still on the job," Nanami reminded him as Gojo walked off, but his friend ignored him and made a beeline for the woman.

Nanami sat at the bar, the same place as the night before, scanning the room for any sign of Alara. The ambiance was as electric as ever, with dim lighting and a pulsating beat that seemed to reverberate through his chest. Despite the throng of people, none seemed important enough to entertain Alara, suggesting she might not show. Ordering a drink, he noticed Gojo was already making out with the woman he’d just met. Typical, Nanami thought, shaking his head.

The door to the back rooms opened, and Nanami saw the tall security guard from last night scoping the room. When their eyes met, the guard walked over with an intimidating confidence that made Nanami’s pulse quicken slightly.

"Ms. Hollymore will see you in the back," the security guard said. Nanami nodded and followed the large fellow through the secret doors. He took note of his surroundings: the walls transitioned from wine red to jet black, and the hall had multiple doors on either side. It curved to the left ahead, but the guard stopped at a door to a large empty room. "Wait in here. She’ll be right with you."

Nanami tugged at his shirt, nervous that a deep breath might pop the buttons. The room was decorated with grey and black brick walls, neon strips lining the top, and dimmed lights creating a romantic, almost mysterious atmosphere. He sat on a black leather sofa facing the door, his mind racing with possibilities. Suddenly, the lights dimmed a bit more, and slow music filled the room. The door opened, and Alara slipped in, her long hair perfectly curled and makeup soft. She wore a long, sheer robe over a lingerie set that accentuated her curves.

Nanami hadn’t felt the touch of a woman since college, his career demanding all his focus. Now, he faced a new challenge: resisting temptation. Alara leaned against the wall across from him and began to move, her body fluid and intimate, her eyes never leaving his. She walked closer, her high heels emphasizing her legs and thighs.

Nanami watched her carefully as she stood before him. Out of his element, he refrained from touching her. She got to her knees, running her hands over his chest. The fabric was thinner than she expected, her touch testing his resolve. His hands stayed at his sides, his breathing steady. She stood slowly, turning to give him a full view of her full backside before bending over slightly, lifting her dress. He couldn’t look away, his desires battling with his professionalism. She sat in his lap, rubbing her body against his. This was more than temptation. He had to steady his mind to not let other places on his body garner a mind of its own.

“A dance from me usually costs over a hundred grand.”

Nanami threw his hands up. “In my defense, I didn’t ask for this.”

“Because you don’t go out much, right?” She looked him in the eye, trying to read him. She placed her hand back on his chest, feeling his heartbeat speed up. She climbed off his lap and sat on the coffee table in front of him.

“What?”

“You’re a lot different than other men that come in here. I literally invited you into a private room and you did nothing.”

“This isn’t really my scene. Gojo, my partner, this is his pastime.”

“Partner?”

“We’re cops.”

Alara stood up, her eyes wide with fear. “You’re a cop?”

“I am,” he said nonchalantly. “Why are you freaking out?”

“No reason,” she said, trying to calm herself.

“Look, I was just coming here to try to be looser like my partner.” He stood up and walked towards the door. “I thank you for the invite. It was an amazing dance.”

“Where are you going?”

“Home,” he answered. He turned to her and whispered, “And I promise you’re not in trouble. But if you are, here’s my card.”

Criminal Contempt

(Chapter 9 Final Chapter)

Previous Chapters

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

18+ Higuruma x reader Synopsis: You and Higuruma have hated each other since the second grade and for some reason, you ended up in the same classes, high school, college and now firm. With the company looking to make someone senior partner, you come face to face with your rival again. Tension builds as you two are forced to work together on a high profile case and nowhere to put your frustrations.

Trope: Enemies to lovers.

Warning: Graphic language, sex, smut.

After a year-long trial, the long awaited fate of Anya was in the hands of a jury that kept neutral faces throughout the trial. It was normal to advise the jury not to have outbursts or distracting reactions but they held it together quite well. It was enough to throw you off your game a little.  It’s not out of the ordinary but even with the pictures of a dead body in their face it didn't seem to phase them. 

You looked across the room at Higuruma, silently reviewing his notes and making sure that his closing statements had no holes. He was more at ease since becoming your boyfriend. No jealousy, no questioning. He was finally his true self. 

You had a feeling they’d choose him as partner. He was quite witty the entire trial and his knack for pinpointing body language between witnesses and jury members was something you couldn’t do. The other lawyers had taken a walk outside, trying to get some fresh air as the jury deliberated. With this trial coming to an end, the neverending thoughts of a future with Higuruma were all you could think about. 

What was next?

Higuruma looked up from his laptop and slammed it shut. Moving it to the side, he widened his legs, leaned back in his chair and looked on at you with curiosity and concern. Your eyes averted from his and landed on your hands; moist and shaky. Higuruma knew all too well that your mind could not stop thinking about what was next. Your hunger for being the best and winning this trial was overshadowed by the thoughts of him. But for Higuruma, he knew his plan. You didn’t have a plan but you knew for sure that staying at this office wouldn’t work out. 

He put his fingers to his lips and rubbed them slowly, wanting to be as careful as he possibly could with his words. 

“We probably have about fifteen minutes of alone time,” he started. “Say what you need to say.”

“I have nothing to say,” you lied. 

“It’s been a year and you still think you can lie to my face like this?”

“Higuruma, don’t start…”

“I already started,” he replied sternly. “We’re going to have this discussion and then we’re going to move on. Say what you need to say.” He was authoritative with his approach. Willing to hear you out but not open to you holding things back. You couldn’t just sit in silence and let the universe work things out on their own. Being proactive was the only way to get over this hump in your relationship. 

You bit your lip, holding back tears that have been threatening to fall since closing arguments. You finally looked up and sighed. “I don’t want to work at the firm if I don’t make partner. I’ll have to quit. My pride won’t let me stay.”

“And?”

“And I think that you may see things differently than I do.” You let out another heavy sigh and crossed your legs. “You’re willing to stay if I make partner and I don’t-”

“What? You don’t want me there? You don’t want me to work under you?” he laughed. “You know I’m not bothered by that dynamic.”

“It’s not just that,” you argued. “Hiding this relationship from the firm is not ideal for anyone.”

“We’ll disclose it then.”

“I don’t want that either!” He wasn’t understanding. “I don’t want them to think I slept my way to the top or that I used my body in any sense. You're a somebody in that office. Whether I make partner or not, you are still highly favored. It would ruin me.”

Higuruma threw his hands in the air and clasped them together. “When I told you I’d quit, you didn’t like that idea. For God’s sake, what the fuck do you want?”

“I don’t know! I don’t know! I don’t know!” Your breath was shaky and you just wanted to disappear. “I don’t know… I guess I just don’t want you to resent me for anything if you do quit.”

Higuruma stood up and walked over to you. As he leaned over, his hands fell on top of yours. A gentle touch from him was all you needed to calm your mind and your body. He got to his knees and kissed the back of your hands. 

“I love you so much and I need you to stop overthinking this.” He let his lips graze against your fingers and took in your sweet scent. You smelled like a wildflower dipped in honey. A smell that made him weak in the knees and caused his heart to race at a million miles a minute. Even after the time that you two have spent together, you were still just as intoxicating as the first time you two made love. 

You put a hand on his face, knowing that no matter what you did or said, he wasn’t going to be deterred too easily. “I think we should celebrate after this trial. A long well-deserved trip should happen.”

He nodded in agreement. “Bali and Phuket. Three weeks, luxury hotels and nonstop fucking. I already booked our tickets last week.”

“Wow,” you laughed. “What made you so confident that I’d even want to go with you?” He made a face and you couldn’t help but chuckle at his expression. “This trial could still go another week if the jury doesn’t come to a decision?”

“We’re going no matter what so they better get it together.” He put his hands on your thighs and noticed how your skirt rode up a little when you sat. “You know, I don’t think anyone will be in here for another twenty minutes. We could-”

You immediately stood up and moved away. “Higuruma, this is a borrowed office. There could be cameras in here.” 

“They also have a private bathroom. But you know they’d have to disclose if there were cameras so I think we’re safe,” he said, walking your way.

“No,” you scolded. “The moment you do something, someone will walk in.”

He moved over to you and as you took a step back, he reached out for your hand. He pulled you in, letting your body bulldoze into his. His hand was on the lower part of your back and he was itching to do more. “Have you ever thought about the risk of someone catching us? Wouldn’t that be hot?” His lips begin to tickle your neck as he left kisses on your collarbone. His tongue would suckle on the sensitive spot right below your ear, causing you to lose feeling in your legs. He held you tighter, keeping you up with his strong arms. Your ears were wide open, wanting to know if anyone was coming because you couldn’t fight back. Your body wouldn’t allow you to. 

His touch felt too good to pass up and you both haven’t had much time alone the past few days. Seeing how you were no longer reluctant, he took the chance to kiss your lips in the most passionate way possible. His tongue immediately found yours, tasting the matcha that tinged your lips. He held you lovingly, bringing a hand up to support the back of your neck. Not caring that the lipstick you wore smeared his lips, he deepened the kiss. He was becoming desperate and eager for more. To taste your pussy one more time before leaving this room was all he wanted. 

His hand fell from your waist and snuck its way to your backside. His hand was full of your ass, squeezing as if his life depended on it. All he wanted was more of you.  

You pulled away, breathless from this kiss. “We have to stop,” you said, wiping the lipstick from  his face. “You have lipstick all over your mouth.”

“Good. Now everyone can see who I belong to,” he said, taking you in again. His dick was hard against your stomach and you knew there was no stopping what you two started. He backed you into a wall, slowly bunching up your skirt one inch at a time. Anyone could walk in at any moment but the risk of being caught did turn you on a little. When your skirt was high enough, he placed his fingers over your panties, noticing they were thinner than usual. Pushing them to the side like he always did, he took no time to slide his fingers in. 

You let your head fall back as you let him do what he did best. He pulled the collar of your shirt down a little, wanting to get to your breasts but could only get a sliver of your skin. Kissing your chest, he stuck his fingers as deep as he could into you, noticing your legs beginning to shake. 

“Shit, I hear Gemma,” you whispered against his lips. Gemma’s laugh was loud enough to fill a long hallway like the one at the courthouse and Higuruma didn’t want to stop just yet.

“Come for me first,” he said into your ear. 

“Higuruma, ah…” you tried to push him but your arms grew weak as you felt your climax coming on. You grabbed onto his jacket with your fists bunched up into the fabric as he moved his fingers in the right spot to make you go crazy. Higuruma took his free hand to cover your mouth as he felt the muscles tighten around his fingers. 

You let out a soft scream into his hand as you came onto his long fingers. He was tempted to run over to the door and stick a chair in front of it but had to practice his self control. It wasn’t easy being your boyfriend and that’s only because of how obsessed he was with you and everything you did. He found joy in feeling you pulse against his fingers, leaving you satisfied fulfilled him in more ways than one. 

Keeping his body against yours, he pulled his fingers out slowly and licked them clean. He stared you in the eyes as his tongue slid between his fingers followed by a smirk. 

“I wish I had time to eat you out,” he whispered. 

You were definitely turned on but you heard people near the door and freaked out. Pushing him out the way, you fixed your skirt and sat back down. The door swung open and Gemma held out a coffee for you. 

“We ran into Anya in the hallway and did everything to calm her down,” Gemma said. 

“Girl is a mess. I’m pretty sure we won this though,” Elliot chimed in. 

Gemma eyed you and just had to ask, “Ugh, are you okay? Your hair is messed up in the back.”

You quickly fixed your hair, trying to find a lie to distract her. “I took a cat nap and that asshole over there woke me up.” Gemma looked over at Higuruma, who was chatting away with the guys and completely unbothered by the accusation. It’s not like you weren’t loud enough for him to hear. 

Gemma took a seat beside you and whispered. “You two were a really good team this past year. I guess now that the trial is coming to an end, you’re going back to enemies?” Gemma teased the last part and you didn’t really know how to respond to that. Gemma continued, “I actually think you two have a lot in common. I know the whole partner thing is up for grabs but you’d make a pretty nice couple.” 

You gave her a puzzled look and she just smiled. 

“Okay,” Gemma said, thinking she offended you. “Maybe that was a stretch but at least be friends.”

“I’ll think about it,” you told her, making sure your lipstick wasn’t all over your face. You noticed Higuruma stealing glances at you and apparently, so did Gemma. 

“I know it seems out of left field but he stares at you a lot,” she said, trying to make sure you were able to put the pieces together. “A lot of us have noticed. We think he has a crush on you but he hasn’t mentioned anything to the guys.”

“Everyone seems to be okay with it?” you asked in a joking manner but wanted a real answer. 

“Between us, we have bets going. Now, I have two hundred dollars riding on this. So this isn’t a push to date him but please, just consider,” Gemma laughed.

Seeing as to how she approached you about this subject, this was definitely something that became a hot topic in the office. 

An officer came to the door and told them that the jury was ready. 

Michael’s eyes widened as your team gathered their things. Out of everyone in the group, he was the most anxious over the trial. “I didn’t expect them to reach a verdict this quickly.”

Elliot put a hand on Michael’s shoulder. “Let’s hope it works in our favor.”

Your team begin walking to the courtroom but as everyone piled out, Higuruma pulled you back so that you were further behind the group. 

“No matter the verdict, it changes nothing between us. No matter who makes partner, nothing changes.” He put his hand on the small of your back unconsciously and stood in front of you. Being cautious, he removed his hand so people didn’t catch on. “I already know how you’ll react after we leave this courthouse, so I’m asking… can you trust me?”

“Of course I can,” you said.

“Then trust that everything will be okay. I love you.”

Even after a year, you were hesitant to say those three little words but in this moment, you couldn’t help but let it out. “I love you too.”

Higuruma’s eyes popped out of his head not expecting a response. “Holy shit. Did you finally fucking say it to me?”

“Ruma, please… we have to get inside.”

“You can’t just drop that phrase and leave. It doesn’t work like that. I need a moment to kiss you and freak out.”

“You can’t because the bailiff is staring at us through those open doors to get inside. Later.” You walked in, holding back a smile. Higuruma sighed and walked in with his heart ready to burst out of his chest. The courtroom had minimal chatter and Anya was pulling on the sleeves of her sweater. You saw that she noticeably lost weight throughout the year. She was a nervous wreck and with an accusation as damaging as this, you would be a nervous wreck too. After watching Higuruma all these years, you felt like this was your test to being more empathetic. 

Reaching out, you held out your hand with the palm up. Anya glanced at your hand and saw that you weren’t shaking at all. This trial would define your entire career and you were at ease for some strange reason. Even though she was hesitant, Anya placed her hand in yours. Like a warm embrace, your hand covered hers and you gave it a tight squeeze. 

“Anya,” you voiced softly. The teary-eyed starlet looked at you, wanting to hide away and never show her face again. “You have been so strong this year. I am so proud of you. You held your head up high in court every single day. You had reporters antagonizing you and you didn’t crack. You have been holding yourself together with duct tape, trying not to fall apart. When this is over, I promise you, you will smile. You’ll be able to breathe again without feeling as if your chest is heavy. You will be free. I trusted you as a client. Now trust me.”

A tear slid down her cheek and you saw her lift her chin a little more. “I trust you.”

“All rise!” the bailiff announced. The judge walked in and said his speech that all judges do. He then motioned to the jury to give their verdict on first degree murder. While your team stood, she never let your hand go. She squeezed your hand with every word uttered from the mouth of the judge and jury. She began to hold her breath as the foreman stood up and announced the verdict. 

“We the jury find Anya Spars…”

The room was quiet. No one was moving or fidgeting. It was like the world stopped on its axis. Anya could spend the rest of her life in jail or walk out of this courtroom a free woman. The question was, did you do your best? Did you do all that you could? Regardless of the verdict, you and your team would leave this courtroom and go back to your lives. For Anya, her entire career ended the day she was arrested. 

“Not guilty,” the foreman announced. Holding your composure, you held Anya up as she lost all feeling in her body. Her family held back their wails as the judge gave his closing statements and thanked the jury for their time and dedication to this case. 

Higuruma watched you from the moment you stepped into the courtroom, to the moment you all stood outside with microphones in your faces. His pride for you was more than words could explain. Anya held on to you as Higuruma made a statement for the team. 

“This was a long and drawn out trial that finally ends in real justice. Anya was a victim who unfortunately had to deal with a partner who lashed out and attacked her. With the amount of evidence provided, it is without a doubt that she defended herself in a just manner.” Higuruma looked over at Anya and then at you. “May this be a lesson to tabloids to be kinder and wait until a trial is over before trying to hurt an innocent woman and her career. I hope from here on out, our client is able to move forward and heal from this traumatizing experience. Thank you.”

Anya saw her family patiently waiting to the side to hold her and kiss her. Finally feeling like she was freed from the shackles of hell, Anya embraced her family like a child reuniting with its mother. You couldn’t help but feel the love through their interactions as her family collectively gave their warm thanks to you and your team. Higuruma put a hand to your back and motioned you to the car as reporters continued to swarm the team. When you all got into the car, Gemma couldn’t help but be the first to scream in excitement. 

“My resume just got sexier,” she said. 

Elliot nodded. “We have to celebrate tonight.”

Higuruma held up his phone. “The boss just texted the group. They’re throwing a party for us tomorrow at The Terrace. They’ll be making their announcement.”

Gemma clapped her hands together. “Okay but I want a celebration for just our team. This was a long and bumpy road that we finally managed to recover from. Drinks tonight? Please?”

She was looking at you, seeing that you were zoned out. “Drinks tonight sounds good,” you smiled. “I just need a shower and a nap.”

When night fell, the team went to a dive bar that was playing a hockey game that distracted the masses from the major win they had today. You felt like a huge burden was lifted from your shoulders but your mind was still stuck in the trenches. 

“I’m getting us another shot!” Michael said with a smile. 

“I’ll join you,” Gemma said. “I want a screwdriver.”

Elliot stood up and finished off his beer before walking over to the redhead that was eyeing him the entire night. “I’ll be back. I think I found my future wife.”

You and Higuruma couldn’t help but laugh because Elliot wasn’t the smoothest but he was a pro at getting numbers. His looks got him pretty far but the reason he was unable to keep a woman was still a mystery. 

Your fingers tapped the glass of the beer as Higuruma tried to read your thoughts. “Cheers to us.” He held up his now half empty glass and you followed with a light tap against it. You both took a sip and he knew that this was still eating you up. The issue is that he didn’t know what else to do or say about it. He’s said and done everything he possibly could to ease your thoughts but finally came to a dead end. 

“Gemma and some other nice coworkers have a bet going about us,” you told him. 

Higuruma’s brow lifted. “Do they now?”

“Yeah.” You took another sip and rested your head on your hand. “A part of me wants to tell them and another part wants me to lie to see Gemma lose her two hundred dollars.” You laughed at the ridiculousness of it all and Higuruma joined you. 

“Well, you know that I’ll do anything that you want me to do. But if you want my opinion, I say we tell them.”

“What if they think-”

“What if…” he interrupted. “That phrase can kill the potential in anything we have. Why can’t you just let yourself be happy?”

You pushed your unfinished drink to the side and frowned. “How are you not nervous?” You couldn’t understand the mindset of just ‘going with the flow’ and letting nature take its course. 

“I’m not nervous because I know my future is bright. We won the biggest case of our lives. You know how many clients are lining up at our doors?”

”You’re right,” you said, slowly coming to terms with the inevitable. The rest of your team came back and guessing by the smile on Elliot’s face, he got the cute girl’s number. “Hey guys,” you announced. Everyone’s attention was on you, waiting for you to give the speech of a lifetime after the historic win. Instead, the next words out of your mouth came to a shock to them and Higuruma. “Higuruma and I have been dating for a year.” Gemma’s eyes began to sparkle as Michael and Elliot groaned in unison. 

“Congratulations!” Gemma screamed, giving you the warmest hug. “Elliot, Michael, you both owe me two hundred!”

Higuruma ignored the betting trio and couldn’t help but look at you in admiration. You looked away shyly. Michael took his shot and glared at Higuruma. “You didn’t want to give us a hint or anything?”

”Sorry about that,” Higuruma said. “Next time, just pay more attention because I would think it was obvious.”

You looked over at Gemma and eyed her cutely. “You knew.”

”Call it a woman’s intuition,” she smirked. “You two are not the best at keeping secrets.”

”When did you know?” 

“Remember when they announced you two would take on the case and we all had drinks at the bar?” Your eyes widened as she continued with her story. “Yeah… I don’t think coworkers go to the bathroom together and spend a solid fifteen minutes alone in there.”

You hid your face in embarrassment. “Holy shit.”

”It’s okay,” Gemma laughed. “I made sure no one went to that bathroom. Plus, I like you two together. You’re both less annoying.”

You reached over to hug her and couldn’t be more thankful for the friendship you two had. “Thank you.”

”Anytime,” she smiled. “Now, let’s drink and have a good night.”

Throughout the night, you finally felt as if you didn’t need to hold back. These constant fears of never knowing what the future holds seemed to disappear into thin air. Your love for your career was still strong but your love for Higuruma grew stronger. He was supportive, loving and sure of himself. You could finally close your eyes and let things work in your favor. You were free.

At the party, Higuruma made it very clear that you were his. He’d hold your hand and bring you everywhere. You were his greatest joy and you’ve never seen him so happy. 

“So we have another five minutes before they make the announcement. Do you have anything you need to get out before they say who made partner?” Higuruma wanted to go through the routine of you expressing your doubts but surprisingly, you were fine. 

“No,” you smiled. 

He tilted his head in confusion. “Is this my girlfriend speaking or am I dreaming?”

You pushed him cutely. “I’m serious,” you laughed. “I’m ready. I’m ready for anything.”

Higuruma grabbed your hand and walked you towards the front. With your head held high and the love of your life standing beside you, the fears you held for years were officially gone. Your achievements and goals have been reached and you could look back and be satisfied with the work you’ve done. Nothing made you happier than to be recognized for everything you’ve done. Even if you didn’t make partner, you wouldn’t change anything in the world. The long-winded speech of your bosses seemed to fade into the background as Higuruma looked on at you lovingly. He had achieved everything he’s ever wanted and this night truly couldn’t become any better for him. 

With the room going quiet and the voice of your boss blasting through the speakers, you relaxed your body as he finally announced who would be making partner. You drowned out his voice with songs of bliss filling your head. But before you could truly tune the world out, you heard a roaring applause coming in your direction. And as you opened your eyes, everyone was looking at you and only you. 

Everything seemed to fall in place in this moment as they finally called your name. Higuruma kissed you softly as he motioned you to the front to give your own small speech. You kept it short and brief but impactful enough to leave an impression on everyone there. 

As the night wrapped up, Higuruma took you home, eager to celebrate in private. 

“So now that it’s all over, what are you going to do?” you asked him. 

Higuruma stared off into the distance as he drove. “Before we left, I gave them my resignation. Either I was leaving or staying and I want you to shine and thrive in that place. I knew that my presence could possibly be a distraction. Plus…” he stopped his car beside an empty building, newly made. “When I open my own private firm, I don’t think I can stay at that place anyway.”

You gave him a wide grin and squeezed his hand. “How long have you been planning this?”

“Before we even started dating. Our dads are two different souls that are well acquainted with the justice system. I want to give hope to many pro bono and continue to show the world that I’m better than the corrupt man known as my father. Eventually, I wasn’t going to stay at the firm.” He squeezed your hand and kissed it. “It felt right.”

“I’m really proud of you,” you told him sweetly. 

“Thank you,” he replied. “Now, let’s take a tour of the office as I eat you out on my desk.”

“Can you be serious for two seconds?” you laughed. 

“No,” he parked the car and proceeded to motion you into the building. “I also made a space for you in my office to comfortably work remotely in case you want to look at me all day.”

“I hate how cocky you are.”

“And I hate how hardheaded you are.” He faced you and stared you down, the same way he used to before you both learned about your feelings for each other. “And that’s why I love you.”

You couldn’t help but blush at his words and kiss him softly. “That’s why I love you too.”

Almost ready for artfight!

Criminal Contempt (Chapter 8)

Previous Chapters

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

18+ Higuruma x reader Synopsis: You and Higuruma have hated each other since the second grade and for some reason, you ended up in the same classes, high school, college and now firm. With the company looking to make someone senior partner, you come face to face with your rival again. Tension builds as you two are forced to work together on a high profile case and nowhere to put your frustrations.

Trope: Enemies to lovers.

Warning: Graphic language, sex, smut.

Saturday came around and Higuruma paced his home as the minutes went by. He would stare at his clock, wishing that the time would go faster but it was eating him up inside. Nanami was home alone with you, probably trying to flirt to get your temperature. He’d be lying if he said it wasn’t eating him up inside but Higuruma knows that your relationship with him didn’t start off on the most solid foot. Confessing to you and putting his heart on his sleeve was the only way he could truly get the fresh start that he wanted with you. 

As if the day came to a standstill, he stared at his phone and saw that he’d get text from colleagues or a distant cousin. Nothing from you. Trying to take his mind off of you, Higuruma sat down to watch television. He flipped through the channels and looked for something that could possibly distract him from thoughts of you, yet, the struggle remained. 

After twenty minutes of flipping through the channels, he threw the remote to the side and lied down on the couch. His fingers tapped heavily against his chest as he tried to get some rest. Last night was a struggle for him as he was completely restless and his mind filled with you. His bed still smelled like you. The lotion you liked to use fresh out of the shower was on the dresser and one of your favorite perfumes sat on the bedside table. He was a wreck and the thought of you being with Nanami made him sick. 

Grabbing his phone again, he saw that it was only ten in the morning. He’s been up since two with heavy dark circles under his eyes to prove it. 

“Fuck it,” he said, standing up to grab his keys. Lunch was close enough around the corner so he went to a nearby pizza joint and ordered two large pizzas, one supreme and another pepperoni. He sent you a text to let you know he was on the way and waited impatiently in the lobby for his order to come. 

You and Nanami started the day pretty early and began gathering items at the hardware store around seven in the morning. The only thing you wanted was the accent wall, so it shouldn’t be an all day project. With the wall prepped, you and Nanami cut up the tiles and wood that you planned to use. For the most part, Nanami was on his best behavior. He didn’t flirt or make you feel uncomfortable. He worked with you like a colleague but it wasn’t what you were expecting. Not that it was a bad thing but Higuruma’s reaction to everything made you think.

Nanami is someone that isn’t in the firm. You’re in two separate fields that happen to collaborate and if… and that’s a huge ‘if’, you two hypothetically date, you wouldn’t have the same worries that you have with Higuruma. But to think like that, you would feel like you’re breaking Higuruma’s trust. Nanami isn’t the man for you, at least you don’t think. You meddled over your relationship with Higuruma and continuously asked yourself if it was worth it. 

You didn’t want to experience heartbreak but you didn’t want to miss out on possibly one of the best things that could ever happen to you. 

Nanami was measuring the wood silently as you kept staring at him. You were supposed to spackle a small dent you saw on the lower corner of the wall but wanted to say something. 

Nanami lifted his head and you looked away quickly. You heard his chuckle and turned back to look at him. His amusement was funny and his reaction to you was light-hearted. 

“Speak now or forever hold your peace,” he said, putting the wood down. He walked over to you and leaned against the wall with glee on his face. “You’ve been acting weird since I got here. What is it?”

You lowered your head and groaned, feeling embarrassed by what you were about to say. However, if you didn’t say it, you felt like you’d ruin a good dynamic between you two. 

“I’m seeing Higuruma romantically,” you blurted out, feeling like a weight was lifted from your shoulders. “I keep looking at you because I foolishly think that things would be easier if I didn’t date a coworker.” You threw your hands up, defeated and a little deflated. Admittedly, that took a lot but Nanami was kind of stuck between the two of you and you didn’t want bad feelings to arise. “Higuruma is extremely weary of you and that might be why he’s been acting distant with you. I made a joke ages ago about how you were my type and he hasn’t been a fan of you since.” You looked at him with an apology written all over your face. “I’m sorry I ruined your friendship.”

Nanami laughed, puzzling you in the process. “You didn’t ruin anything,” he told you. He took a seat on the ground across from you, leaning back onto the wall. His eyes looked forward and he tried to find the right words to say to you. “I did, well still, like you.” You perked up slightly, wanting to know where this would go. “But I had a feeling during the interaction the other night. He kind of confirmed it in a text that said he was working towards something with you. But he basically told me to back off.”

“He did what?” you said, shocked that Higuruma would do that.

“It’s fine.”

“It’s not,” you said. “I told him to trust me.”

“I think he does,” he said, defending the man that came for him. “But if I could be honest with you, the things Higuruma said about you weren’t that bad.”

“What do you mean?”

“Before you and I met, he would fuss about a woman at work when we got drinks with the guys after a scrimmage game. Your name came up literally every single time but when he rambled on, he’d talk about how focused and headstrong you are. It was obvious he liked you, but none of us talked to him about it.”

“Oh…” You were too stunned to reply. It warmed your heart in a way but you were still mad he contacted Nanami behind your back. 

“I think you are a wonderful woman, truly.” Nanami looked at you with complete admiration in his eyes. “I haven’t known you long enough but my crush will probably subside some day. But I’m okay with being your friend. And despite Higuruma’s weird feelings towards the both of us, I can assure you that I’ve never seen him so infatuated with anyone like this.”

You let out a shaky breath, relieved by those words. “I’m grateful you said that.”

Nanami put a hand on your shoulder and stood up. “Now, I do think we should fuck with him to teach him a lesson. I mean, if you want.” He threw his hands up with a shrug, hoping you’d follow along. 

A smile crept up on your lips and you hoisted yourself onto your feet. “What’s the plan?”

Around ten forty-five, Higuruma parked in your driveway, wanting to gag at Nanami’s truck parked there as well. Grabbing the pizzas, Higuruma grabbed his overnight bag and walked briskly to your front door and rang the doorbell. Not even a second later, he knocked on the door and looked to see if there was any movement. Before he could knock again, the door swung open with a shirtless Nanami greeting him with a devious smile. 

“Food is here!” Nanami yelled, looking Higuruma up and down. 

The disgust on Higuruma’s face quickly vanished when you walked around the corner and straight to him. You greeted Higuruma with a warm hug and grabbed the boxes. “Our savior,” you said, quickly making your way to the kitchen. 

“Come on in, man.”

Higuruma stepped inside slowly, still stunned with how naked Nanami was. “Thanks for inviting me into the house that is not yours,” Higuruma said with slight attitude.

“You’re welcome,” Nanami said, slapping Higuruma’s back like old pals. 

Higuruma was genuinely uncomfortable and was hoping you’d prompt Nanami to put his shirt back on. “My air went out for a moment but Nanami was handy enough to fix it. We’re just waiting for it to cool again.”

“I think it’s cool enough,” Higuruma said, looking back and forth between you two. “You should probably cover up. Don’t want to catch a cold or something from the temperature change.”

“You’re right,” Nanami replied. “Since I’m heading to the bedroom, I’ll finish those last two tiles and join you for some pizza.”

“Sounds good,” you said, giving Nanami all of your attention. It was like you two were talking in a code that only you two could understand. Higuruma obviously didn’t like it and wanted you to address the elephant in the room but you said nothing. In fact, you ignored every bit of Higuruma’s discomfort because he thought sending unfriendly texts to Nanami was okay. “I forgot how high my ceilings were. Very thankful that Nanami is strong. He held me up on the ladder pretty well.”

“What do you mean held you up?” Higuruma questioned.

“Like, he grabbed my legs to ensure I didn’t fall. I was at the tip-top of the ladder.”

Higuruma bit back a sneer and squinted. “So, Thor couldn’t take his big ass up the ladder and do it?”

You laughed at his comment, seeing his annoyance seep through into his words. “Why would he do that?”

“Because he’s taller than you. And why did he need to take his shirt off. It didn’t get that fucking hot in here.”

“I thought we weren’t going to be jealous.”

“I’m not jealous,” Higuruma lied. “I’m fit too. I just don’t walk around with my fucking tits out like I own the place.”

“The tiles are in place!” Nanami yelled from the other room. He walked back to the kitchen and rubbed his hands together. “Thank you for the pizza. It looks good.”

Higuruma simply nodded and watched as you two ate the pizza and talked about things that happened at the hardware store. All inside jokes but as a guest, he felt like  he should be included. However, if Nanami wants to play that game, he could too. 

“So Beth!” Higuruma interrupted the snickers between you two. “Beth was crying over her ex all day yesterday. I thought it was important you knew that since we’ve been the pair to give her advice in the past, as well as the entire office.”

Nanami’s jaw dropped. “Is Beth the one that-”

“Yes!” you said before he could finish. 

“I just want to be with him forever!” you and Nanami said in unison before you both broke out in laughter. 

Higuruma wasn’t with it anymore. You two had obviously grown close over the course of a few days and his feelings apparently meant nothing to you. As he tried to keep his anger at bay, Nanami put a hand on your shoulder and pulled you closer to whisper something. It was enough for Higuruma to finally let out the outburst he’s been keeping in for so long. 

He walked around the island and pulled Nanami’s hand off you. 

“Hey!” Nanami yelled. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

“Do you have to touch her when you laugh? Do you need to-”

“Need to what?” Nanami interrupted. 

“Get your fucking hands off her.”

“Or what?” Nanami bucked up. The men were face to face as you waited to see if Nanami would break character. By the looks of it, he seemed serious. But his frown soon turned as he stepped back with a smile. “You win, Higuruma. We were fucking with you.”

Nanami gave you a high-five and Higuruma stared in confusion. “What do you mean?”

“Thor, here, told me about the text you sent him. Even after the long conversation you and I had. So we messed with you to teach you a lesson.”

Nanami soon grabbed his stuff and one of the pizza boxes. “As a prize for my acting, I’m taking this pizza home.” Turning to you, he waved. “I’ll just come back tomorrow. When things cool down.”

“Bye Nanami,” you said with a small wave. As he left your home, you went to the door and locked it. Higuruma was close behind with his head held low. He knew he screwed up and sex was definitely not going to make up for it this time. You had your back to the door and your legs shook.  

“I texted him because I knew he would-”

“Save it,” you whispered, eyes still on the ground. “Being jealous is one thing but Higuruma, you’re crossing lines that I don’t like.”

He ran his hands through his hair and rubbed his eyes. “I don’t know why I do what I do. It’s like I can’t control myself when it comes to you. If this was any other guy, I wouldn’t even flinch.”

“Oh please,” you said, finally looking up at him with hurt in your eyes. “You don’t own me.”

“I know,” he replied with a hand of surrender. “I know… I just don’t want to lose you.”

“If you continue to act the way you did with Nanami just now, then you will.” You walked past him and into your room to clean a little of the mess you made when renovating. Higuruma was right behind you, watching your every move. He was scared to say anything else, knowing that you were disappointed in him. “You know, I thought about what dating Nanami would be like.”

Hearing that made his heart drop but he stood strong to listen to you express your thoughts. 

“It would be easier. He’s not a coworker. He’s not the jealous type. He’s confident in himself and we can have normal conversations.”

“We have normal conversations.”

“No we don’t!” you yelled. “We have this. These!” You flung your hands around, trying to express that this current conversation is the same tone as the rest. “And even though I know life will be easier if I was with anyone else, I still fucking choose you! I can imagine a whole life with Nanami but it would never make me feel the way life feels with you.” 

You trailed off at the end, finally admitting a bit more of how you felt to him. This was beyond you liking him. No, the way you felt was a bit stronger. You were doing well, holding back your tears but you thought about how many more fights you two could have.

“I don’t see a life with anyone else but you too,” Higuruma added. He took a tiny step closer, not wanting you to inch away from him. He wanted to reach out but kept his hands to himself. “I’ve been selfish. And my biggest fear is losing you. We have no label and that scares me. You have to understand that my mind can’t wrap around you just being someone I’m seeing.”

“We agreed to be exclusive.” 

“I want you to be my girlfriend,” he urged. “I want the title as your boyfriend.”

“What does that change?” you asked, still not understanding. 

“The fact that you can’t simply say yes, means it will change everything.”

You were shocked. Why couldn’t you just say yes? You both agreed to try this after the trial was over but what’s the difference between a heartbreak now than one in the future?

You picked up some trash and threw it away with Higuruma right on your heel. He wasn’t leaving until you two made up. Even with him in tow, you continued to clean. Higuruma would help but it was in silence. What was the next step in this relationship because if you two were to fight again, you didn’t want to continue. 

You eventually took a shower, wanting some time to think to yourself. As you showered, Higuruma sat on the olive green chair that sat across from your bed. The perfect view of the project you worked so hard on. He couldn’t help but reflect on your wants. He could admit that his feelings were strong but they may be overbearing. As he looked up, the light above your bed flickered. A realization crossed his face as he concluded why you were scared. You’ve listed so many reasons but one. 

Dimming your light.

You pride yourself in your work and it was unfair of him to keep you from it. Late night sessions of passions that led to papers and evidence thrown onto the floor. Nights of reading law books to only end up deep into each other were coming back to him and slowly eating away at him.

He was so tired but refused to close his eyes until he was able to end the night with you in his arms. You emerged from the bathroom in your towel, rubbing your lightly scented lotion in. Your eyes never looked his way and the hurt from that alone was enough for him to panic. 

He crossed a line, he was aware. Uncertainty was something that hurt both of you in the process but where do go from here? He watched in silence as you did your nightly routine. It was like he was a ghost trapped in the room he died in, forced to see loved ones live their lives without him in thought. It was paralyzing in a way he couldn’t describe. Higuruma’s free will suddenly vanished as he felt his body was tied down to the chair. 

In fear of pissing you off even more, he sat still and stayed quiet. With Higuruma in the chair across from your bed, you refused to look his way. Higuruma wanted a title and you could give it to him. The power was truly in your hands.

“If you want me to be your girlfriend, you have to work for it,” you said with your back turned to him. 

“I’ll do anything.” He wasn’t letting anything stop him from having you. The gradual turn from hating you to obsessing over you had been a change neither of you were prepared for. But his feelings were strong and he was never one to deny himself of his wants. 

“Hm.” You moved a few pillows away from the headboard and opened your top drawer. Higuruma’s eyes were glued on you. For the first time, lust wasn’t the first thing in his mind. His eyes were on your expression and body language. Deciphering your movements was all he had outside of the short dialogue between you two. He needed more information to see how he could move forward.

You sat across from him, towel still on and eyes on his. You two were locked in, reading each other’s thoughts and reading each other’s body language. 

“I told Nanami about us. I let him know where I stood. Because he’s a gentleman, he never crossed any lines.” You eyed him as you spoke, seeing if he’d react to your words. “I enjoy his company and how calm he is. I like how he listens to me and how he makes me laugh.” Higuruma lowered his head. From his perspective, it sounded like a breakup. Your lips never trembled as you spoke and you held your head higher and higher with every breath. You were confident and even though that scared him, it was something he really liked about you. 

“I’m so at ease with him. And when I think about what could be with him, I don’t panic. I see long walks along the beach, trips out of the country and conversations that last forever.” You smiled to yourself. “Nanami is just… easy.”

Higuruma’s jaw clenched with every word that escaped your lips. This was it. He lowered his head in defeat, readying his heart for your next sentence. There was no strength left in him as the physical exhaustion was beating him. Closing his eyes, he tried to soothe himself with a breathing technique that just wouldn’t work in this moment. His racing heart couldn’t stay still and his fingers were interlocked to keep them from fidgeting. 

A single tear fell down his cheek as it escaped his eye and fell onto his shaky hands. The warmth of your hand soon caressed his cheek which only made him cry harder. His small pants that turned into full wailing as he accepted defeat. This wasn’t what he wanted; the fact that he had fallen for you made it worse. 

At least he didn’t say it out loud. At least he could keep the love he had for you to himself. It makes everything hurt less. His chest grew tight as the room grew smaller. Your touch only making it worse in this whirlwind of emotions that are arising. 

You got to your knees and made him look at you. Higuruma had finally fallen, no longer able to keep up the appearance of being this cool, calm and collected man. With your eyes locked on his, you wiped his tears, infatuated with the glistening dull eyes that stared down at you. He was losing it and that’s all you needed. 

“I’m not a fan of easy.”

Higuruma’s cries only grew louder, realizing that you still chose him. He covered his face, feeling as if you were testing him. Feeling embarrassed was one thing but the relief that took over his body was stronger than any emotion that may try to surface. Cries soon paired with a smile that felt genuine and warm. Your touch no longer felt like pity wrapped in a blanket but like a sun ray that hits your skin at just the right angle. 

“I’m so sorry,” Higuruma cried, wiping the tears away. All you could do was look on at him, knowing that things with Higuruma could very much be easy. 

“Higuruma, I need you to trust me and those around me. I need you to show me that you’re able to go all in with no more issues.”

He nodded. “I can. I can do whatever you need me too.”

“I also don’t want you to quit in order to be with me.” The only thing left in this web of a relationship was what would happen when one of you becomes partner at the firm. You wiped his remaining tears and stood up. “We can speak to our team after the trial is over. But I know that I want you with me through every step of our professional journey.”

“I’ll go wherever you go,” he whispered. Higuruma stood up and held you in his arms, relieved that you two can finally move forward. Relationships aren’t easy but they aren’t hard either. They just took two people who are willing to work on it, no matter how hard it gets. 

“I know you’re tired,” you said into his chest. “You want to shower or just pass out?”

He placed his hands on your face, rubbing his thumb against your skin, ingraining the perfection of your face into his brain. He never wanted to risk losing this view ever again. “I have a better idea.” He pulled on your towel gently and with a single tug, it fell to the floor. He looked you up and down before his eyes landed on yours. Pulling you in for a kiss was natural. Like two magnets, you were both pulled in by a force that didn’t feel like your own. 

Higuruma took no time as his tongue slid into your mouth. Tasting and taking in every bit of you. It felt like home kissing you, knowing that he wouldn’t want anyone else’s lips on his. You felt the same as your arms wrapped around his neck and you stood on your tippy toes to deepen your kiss more and more. You both yearned for each other heavily but tried to keep the interaction soft and sweet. But the more he kissed you, the more needy you became. 

Lifting you up gently, he brought you down onto the bed and hovered over you with a look in his eyes that brought you so much comfort. You lifted his shirt over his head and admired the chiseled body underneath. Your fingers ran down his hard chest and down his fit abs. His happy trail were soft against your fingers as you tried to undo his pants. He pushed your hand away and removed his clothes, keeping his gaze on you the entire time. 

His body was like a Greek statue, carved from the finest of marble. His expression was filled with love and no longer driven by lust. This man was perfect in your eyes and you never imagined having a life of any sort with him. 

Higuruma leaned down to give you kisses on your inner thigh and as much as he wanted to do foreplay with you, he had no impulse control. He wanted you right then and there. To wait would feel like disservice to himself and to you. Bringing his lips back to yours, he kissed you deeply as he slowly placed himself inside of you. You let out a moan that was muffled by his now swollen lips. His hips moved slowly as he grinded into you, giving you the perfect amount of pressure against your clit. Your eyes began to roll to the back of your head as the sensation hit you like a train. A wave of pleasure that your body missed caused you to react. Your hips moved in sync with his, fucking him back. 

His large hands ran up your elbows and to your wrists, pinning them above your head. He left you immobile as he fucked you a little harder. His body rolling like the waves crashing along the shore. He kept his pace steady but fought the urge to go faster. He pulled away slightly to take a look at your face. To gaze onto your pleasure as your lips parted and begged for him to come back. He’d lick your bottom lip and bite it slightly as your hands tried to break free from his grasp. You wanted to hold him, to feel him. Releasing your wrists, he became hypnotized by your breasts as they bounced in sync to the pace of his thrust. 

It turned him on and prompted him to lower his lips to your breasts, sucking on them and squeezing them as if they’d escape his grasp at any moment. He was a little rough, nipping at your nipples and sucking roughly. However, it turned you even more. To watch him struggle on which part of your body to please first. He was overwhelmed in the best way possible. 

Your hands touched his face, easing the muscles around his forehead just by your touch. He turned you over quickly and had you sit in his lap. He wanted the control you had to finish this tumultuous night of love and hate. He wanted you to end this night on your terms and at your pace. 

Taking his hands, you placed them on your breasts as you begin to move your hips back and forth. His hands squeezed lightly as your pussy became wet from the vibrations that sent chills down your body. You looked on at this gorgeous man and accepted that he was yours and only yours. The control you had over him was unthinkable and the fact that he would do anything for you was enough. It was finally enough for you to accept. 

Not once, as you rode him, he looked away from you. This perfect specimen only saw you. The light of his world and the beat of his heart. He was enamored and you knew it. His hands rested on your hips as you picked up your pace. You were hitting the spot that made your muscles tighten and your body move quicker. 

He lifted his hips a little more, getting you to fall deeper onto his dick as you possibly could. He felt you growing tired but saw that you were getting close. Taking a bit of the lead, he used his strength to help move you back and forth on his dick, leaving it wet and dripping with every inch you moved. 

With your eyes locked on his, you both didn’t look away. The room suddenly turned into a black hole and there were no other objects around you two. A mutual understanding appeared for you both and you begin to see vibrant colors light the world around you. Pinks, blues, greens, purples and more suddenly took over and your body begin to tighten. Your forehead rested against his and you felt the warm liquid of his cum fill your body. He held you tight and the silence around you grew louder. Your voice was all that filled the seemingly small space as you reached your climax. He squeezed your body as you called out his name and felt your orgasm take over.

He pulled you in for a kiss that felt like it lasted for hours yet it was only a mere minute. You felt the tears you held in all night finally release. It wasn’t just a moment of pleasure but you were finally letting go. Both of you held these doubts and fears of the future but now as your high came to its peak, you could now start over. You let your body go limp into his arms as you cried into his neck. He held on to you and left a tear escape, hoping you wouldn’t see.

“Fuck, Higuruma,” you cried. “Fuck…”

“I know,” he whispered, kissing the side of your neck. The moment was intense and probably the most intense sex you two had. For a while, you two just lied there. He was still inside of you and you were taking your time coming down from your high. 

When you two were finally done and cleaned up for the night, you lied in bed in each other’s arms. Higuruma was incredibly tired but felt like he couldn’t sleep until you did first. You smiled at him and traced his face. Taking in his eyes and beautiful nose, you felt your eyes grow heavy. 

“I’ll be your girlfriend,” you said as you felt yourself drifting. 

Higuruma flashed his pearly whites and grinned. “Girlfriend. That title fits you so well.”

A small chuckle left your lips and your hand went limp onto the bed. You were finally able to rest and as your mind drifted off to sleep, you could feel Higuruma bring you closer to him.

And you weren’t sure but you thought you heard him mumbling something before your mind went off to dreamland. Maybe you dreamed it or maybe you imagined it but the words became clearer as you entered REM. 

As clear as day you heard him say, “I love you.”