#voltage crossover

MC3: You know I’m quite fond of him even if he can be stoic, severe and a stick in the mud sometimes.

MC1: Yeah, we know you have a crush on Ziggy. And you love his hair.

MC3 [blushes]: No it’s not like that…

MC2: Suuuure.

Leon: Look at the goldfish – our divine kitchen scale has a secret admirer?

Zyglavis [blushes]: No, I’m sure she just meant it in a friendly way…

Ichthys [starts singing]: MC3 and Ziggy, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G!

Scorpio: Shut up problem child or I swear I’m gonna break my rule of not hittin’ a woman!

Ichthys [hiding behind Dui]: Eeeek, scary Scorpy, stay away from me!!!

MC3: Anyways, last week I wanted to bring him some of his favorite chocolate, the one they sell just across the street from my apartment. On my way to his room I saw Ikky sneaking away and instantly got a bad feeling about it. I mean, I love his pranks, but sometimes they go overboard, especially with Zyglavis. He let me in and the moment Ziggy closed the door the whole fucking room just… exploded.

MC1 & MC2: WHAT?!

MC3: Yes, the mattress, the cover, all the pillows, the cushion of the arm chairs, even his shelf with the books, everything blew up in our face leaving the whole room in chaos, shattered material falling down on us like snowflakes in winter. After everything calmed down I realized that he was holding me in a tight embrace, protecting me from what happened just moments ago.

MC1: Aaaaw so cute! That’s something I could use for my lyrics – well, maybe without the exploding pillows and stuff. [laughs]

MC3: It was… quite sweet. He just kept holding me, asking me if I was okay. I looked deeply in his silvery eyes and nodded. [sighs] It felt like a dream. He even forgot to chase after Ikky, something he usually does right away. Just when it would have started to get awkward, I realized how ridiculous we must have looked with all that stuffing material scattered all over us.  

Zyglavis: Despite her initial reaction from the explosion, she still found herself able to laugh over such a reckless and dangerous prank. Honestly Ichthys, it is one thing to direct your pranks at me but to endanger MC3? [shoots Ichthys an incredulous look] Though, I cannot deny how adorable she looked at that moment. [smiling wryly]

MC3: I know that Zyglavis puts a lot of emphasis on his hair, even if he would never admit it. So I carefully asked if I should help him getting rid of all the things that were stuck in it and surprisingly, he accepted.

Karno: Well, this is a surprise; Zyglavis actually allowed someone to touch his hair? What a nice novelty.

Leon: Considering the fact that he could have just snapped his fingers… [smirks]

MC2: To be honest, I don’t see anything strange about what happened…

MC3: I’m not finished yet… So, he hands me the most beautiful brush I’ve ever seen in my entire life, and we sat down on the remnants of the destroyed bed. He gave me a cautious look as he freed his ponytail from the band he was wearing so it would be easier for me to remove all the stuffing that had found its way into his beautiful purplish-blue hair. He let his strands gracefully fall around his shoulders and even though they were tousled and covered with stuff, I was mesmerized by the beauty his hair was exuded. A little distracted by the gorgeous view I carefully began to remove feather by feather out of the long strands, touching his silky hair as if it were a delicate flower. Zyglavis seemed quite tense, but I assumed it was just a side effect from the explosion we just witnessed a few minutes ago. The moment I started to pull my fingers through his strands, carefully combing the tips, a soft moan escaped his lips…

MC1: Whaaaaaat?

MC2: Oohh that is kinky, so what happened next?

MC3: Well… I-I ehm… I wasn’t sure if it was just coincidence, so I repositioned myself, one leg on each of his sides and then carefully started to comb his strands from the base to the tips and… Wow. He just totally lost control over his normally strict demeanor… So, I was curious how far I could go, how much he would be willing to let me do. The more I stroked his hair, the more he let go. His head fell back and his lips were slightly parted as another sexy moan filled the air. He was soooo relaxed in a way I’ve never seen before. I was so turned on by the sounds he was making and the way he was leaning against my chest seemingly lost in sheer pleasure. I got so flustered by his mere touch and the tingling he caused in my body that I had to excuse myself. Totally flustered I quickly apologized to him and ran out of the mansion into my apartment where I immediately took a very cold shower.

MC2 [laughs]: Oh, my poor friend He really got you all wound up huh?

MC1: Such a shame you didn’t do more. [smirks]

MC3: What?! N-No, of course not! He’s not interested in these kinds of things, especially not with me…

MC1: Oh come on hun! He totally likes you, otherwise he would’ve never let you touch his precious hair!

MC3: C-Can we now just change the subject please?

Scoprio [raising an eyebrow]: So Zig… Ya making fun of me for accepting food from her when you let her brush your hair?

Huedhaut [now studying the drinks menu]: Let’s not forget he embraced her, which is presumably the reason he forgot to chase after Ichthys, isn’t it?

Leon: You’re all forgetting the most important part, he pulled the stick out of his ass for once and obviously melted in MC’s hands. It seems Ponytail is finally of an age to be interested in such things.

Teorus: Yeah, who knows what would have happened if Goldie hadn’t run away?

Huedhaut: I think you can tell judging by the color of his face.

Zyglavis [his cheeks on fire]: All of you, that is quite enough! And more importantly where is Partheno? It’s been a half an hour since-

Partheno [stumbling back to the table]: Sorry, I just took a walk outside.

[Ichthys & Teorus grinning]

Ichthys: Suuuure, we know what THAT means! [winks]

[Waiter brings the girls another round of cocktails]

MC1: Does anyone want my cherry?

[Dui turns his head, ready to speak up but Scorpio slaps a hand over his mouth]

Scorpio: Are you stupid?! You’re not blowing our cover for a freaking cherry!

Dui [disappointed, mumbling through Scorpio’s hand]: Buw I wan’ wone!

MC3: I’ll take that, thank you. [Pops cherry in her mouth and starts chewing, a few seconds later she sticks out her tongue with the cherry stems formed into a knot]

MC2: Wow, since when do you know how to do that?

MC3: One of the Gods does it all the time, so I thought I should teach myself.

MC2: You know what they say right? People who can do that are excellent kissers.

MC3: Yeah, I bet that guy is excellent with his tongue in other areas as well…

[Dui blushes slightly]

MC3: He could probably make you cum with a single stroke over your pussy. I’d love to find that out…

[Shadow Dui takes over the body]: Oh Baby, I can show you here and now…

Scorpio [grabs his arm and knocks him out]: Damn, his other half is annoying…

MC3: By the way it’s the cinnamon roll we talked about before – Dui.

Scorpio [snorts]: …More like a sinnamon roll.

MC2: But that didn’t sound so innocent. [laughs]

MC3: Well he is a cinnamon roll when he’s not drunk. [laughs] But it really is fascinating. Dui and Shadow Dui couldn’t be more different from each other. One side is very gentle and sweet, and the other side is wild and rough.

MC1: That sounds exciting. It’s like having sex with two different men if you think about it.

MC2: A mix of gentle and wild… I like that.

MC3 [dreamingly sighing]: Me too…

MC2: But if he constantly switches personalities, will he ever finish?

MC3: Honestly? I wouldn‘t mind going at it all night with him.

[Shadow Dui wakes up again]

MC1: If you had to choose one, which one would you pick?

MC3: That’s impossible. They are both Dui.

Shadow Dui: Oh, someone wants to be punished later… [attempts to leave the table again]

Scorpio: For fuck sake [grabs Shadow Dui by the collar] Sit your freakin’ ass down you moron!

[Dui takes over the body]: Huh? Scorpio, why are you making a scene?

Scorpio: …I’m so done with this shit.

MC3: Honestly, I’m so curious about him, I actually thought about tempting him a little bit. Of course I would do it in an innocent way…

MC2: Oh yeah?

MC3: Yep! Since he loves cherries so much I would make some marmalade and invite him over to let him taste it – he could lick it off my finger of course, while I innocently look into his eyes.

MC2: That’s the exact opposite of innocent…

MC3: I can imagine him licking it off of different places on my body leaving hickeys all over my skin.

[Scorpio looks at Dui, fearing Shadow Dui is about to take over his body again]

Ichthys [pokes Dui]: Hey, Dui?

Dui: [has a predatory gaze in his eyes]

Scorpio: Ok, now he’s frozen.

MC1: Oh I know! Hickeys are soooo hot, don’t you think MC2?

MC3 [thinking: I’m sure Scorps is fighting with Shadow Dui right now, trying to stop him from doing anything stupid] [chuckles]

MC2: That is something I definitely endorse.

MC3: Yeah… that and scratch marks.

MC2: Oh, you’d have to be a real monster in bed to just casually leave scratch marks…

MC1: [chuckles]

MC3: What’s wrong?

MC1: No, I was just remembering something about our leader. He has a “monster-mode” as well, when it comes to composing music.

MC3: And just what was it you remembered about him?

MC1: Well the incident with Kyo wasn’t the only thing that happened in the week where the A/C was broken… Actually it was quite dramatic to be honest. One day I made myself some caramel tea in the kitchen late in the evening.

MC2: How can you drink tea when it’s so hot?!

MC1: Some magazine wrote an article about how to survive a heat wave the best. And they said it’s good to drink warm things as the body automatically cools down as a result. As I was low on sugar I added some caramel to gather enough energy to finish the lyrics. Anyways, I was sitting on the cool floor when I realized I was stuck with my lyrics. Taka had shown me his idea for the music, but I couldn’t entirely remember it anymore. I went up to his room and knocked but didn’t receive a response. So I carefully opened the door and nearly got slayed by the heat wave that came out. Thinking back I realized I hadn’t seen him in over a day. When I entered his room, the window was closed and completely fogged; it felt like I just stepped into a sauna… I saw him lying on the floor next to his chair motionless, just wearing his boxers, caramel wrappers scattered around the whole place. For your information, caramel is his favorite sweet.

MC3: Oh lord, what happened?!

MC1: I was quite sure he fainted due to the heat and because he had certainly forgotten to eat and drink again while he was composing. My body moved on its own to check his pulse which was way too weak and his breathing was strained. I started to panic, but my emergency mode turned on and I automatically turned him over on his back and started performing CPR, hoping his pulse would stabilize.

MC2: And then? I mean was he okay?!

MC1: I was so full of adrenaline that I couldn’t even enjoy his half naked body or realize that after two or three rescue breaths he started to move again. Still fully concentrated on giving him the next rescue breath I suddenly felt how his long fingers moved through my hair from behind and then he just… kissed me. First he was gentle, caressing my lips with his, slowly exploring my mouth with his tongue; I mean it was just…. Wow.

Nagito: Leader, you kissed MC1 and didn’t tell us?! How is she? Does she taste good? [grins]

Takashi: A gentleman does not kiss and tell.

Kyohei: Doesn’t sound very gentlemanly to kiss a girl who thinks you are dying and tries to revive you. [smirks]

MC1: At some point he pulled away, seductively licking his lips and with a sensual smile the only thing he said was “Your taste brought me back to life, I want more”. He leaned in again and in that moment I snapped back to my senses. I just stood up, surely blushing furiously, excused myself and ran out of his room. I couldn’t look him in the eyes for over a week. By the way, same counts for Kyo after the bath incident.

MC3: …And you are telling me I should have done more with Zyglavis when you don’t even have the guts for THAT?!

MC1: S-Shut up… it wasn’t so easy… I ehm... really like Taka, I mean he is a genius and all, but I’m sure the kiss was more of a reflex to my CPR and nothing more. [blushes]

Kyohei: Damn Taka, you of all of us?

Takashi: What?

Kyohei: Don’t “what?” me! Why didn’t you tell us you had feelings for MC1?

Takashi: I was still half-unconscious so I barely remember it... [blushes]

Kyohei [smiling knowingly]: Yeah, sure. [shifting his gaze back to MC’s table, muttering under his breath] Like I haven’t known him for over a decade…

MC2: Well, he does sound like a very intense guy… They say still waters run deep, don’t they?

MC1: That certainly applies to him.

MC3: [sighing dreamily]

MC1: What are you fantasizing about?

MC3: Huh?

MC1: I know that look, what were you dreaming about?

MC3: Well, now that you’re asking, there is a guy in the Department of Punishments, Krioff. He’s quiet but somehow intense at the same time. So much that I had a pretty vivid daydream about him a few days ago…

MC2 [claps her hands]: Oohh, isn’t that the muscle-man with the dangerous hand you sent us a picture of some time ago?

MC1: He looks soooo hot… I really have a thing for men with silver hair… So please give me some details hun!

Iori: What, she likes old farts? What the hell is she talking about?

Ryo: Hey I’m not an old fart!

Nagito: You think grey would suit me, Ryo? I would do everything to attract her attention. [smirks]

Kota: No, your cock would do everything to get her attention.

Kyohei: Considering the fantasy she blabbered about I don’t think it’ll take a lot for Nagi to get it.

--

Dui: Krioff, what is she talking about?

Krioff: How the heck should I know?

MC3: Well… I imagined him being my teacher. And we did all kinds of… things.

[MC3 thoughts move back to her daydream, as a picture of Krioff appears in her mind]

Huedhaut [lifting his gaze from the menu]: Krioff, a teacher? This sounds interesting.

MC3: He has this utterly strict demeanor so I’d love to take control and see him flustered for a change. God, I bet he is a real beast between the sheets! When he’d be teaching a class, I could hide under his table, slowly open his pants, kiss his thighs…

Leon: Oh-ho, Krioff are you listening?

Krioff: [almost burning up of embarrassment]

Zyglavis: Krioff, calm yourself I can already feel the temperature rising!

MC3: Of course I’d first tease him a little by slowly rubbing his cock through his boxers, and closely observe how he reacts in front of his students. I would see how he tries to stifle the surprise on his face due to what’s happening beneath the table and how his cheeks turn slightly pink. I wouldn’t rush as I know he had a full lesson to spare. So I’d free his already semi-hard cock from the narrowness of his pants and slightly lick the pre-cum off the tip. He’d inconspicuously snatch a view beneath his table to lock eyes with me while I was still caressing his now rock hard length. I’d throw him a seductive smile pressing my index finger onto my lips already knowing he was complete putty in my hands. I’d slowly trail my tongue along the throbbing vein on the downside of his hardness up to the tip. And girls… he is huuuuge! So in my fantasy I assure you I’d give him the best blowjob he’s ever had.

[MC3 makes a short break to take a deep breath and suppress the throbbing that began to form up again in her core, sweat shimmering on her temples]

MC3: Puuhh, is it getting really hot in here or is it just the excitement of my story? [laughs]

Scorpio: Damn it Krioff, compose yourself! Your hand is already heating up the whole fuckin’ bar!

MC3: Ok where was I – aahh yes! It’d turn me on so much to see how he tries to keep his composure while I was suck his godly cock, taking his whole length between my luscious lips. After a few more sucks he would bury his large hand in my hair, clearly savoring the pleasure I was spoiling him with. I could feel how he was getting closer to his release and just as he was ready to cum I would abruptly stop. He’d let out a whimper and try to push my head down again, eager for his own release. “Professor is everything alright?”, a concerned student would ask. He would lightly cough and assure he just had a headache. Suppressing a chuckle I wouldn’t want to be too cruel so I’d start to rub his cock again while my tongue swirled around his tip. My biting and sucking quickly bringing him to the edge again, and I’d let him push my head down his hardness at a faster pace. I could catch a glimpse of his face, his free hand covering his forehead, eyes tightly shut and his lips slightly parted.

I could hear his panting and the moment he finally releases he furrows his brows, letting out a loud sigh, knowing well he was suppressing far sexier sounds, as he spilled all his delicious cum into my mouth. Gladly swallowing every drop of it, I’d let him catch his breath. He’d gently caress my face, a smile playing around his lips, thankful for the joy I brought him on this terrible Monday morning. He wouldn’t be aware that I still wasn’t done with him for this lesson.

MC2: God girl, this is SO hot, now I’m sweating too! [starts to take of her cardigan]

MC3: I’m not finished yet. [smiles]

MC3: After class he would pull me out of the room without saying a word, leading me to his office. He’d push me onto his table, my legs straddling his waist. He’d shred my soaked panties with his teeth and fiercely lick my wet pussy like it was the most delicious ice cream he ever tasted…

Krioff [abruptly stands up]: I gotta use the bathroom!

Dui: Krioff, what are you-

Krioff [blushing even more]: Shut up!

Scorpio: Let him go, as long as it prevents him from burning down the whole friggin’ place! He already turned a cushion into ashes!

MC3: He’s not the only God I fantasize about though… There is this intensely hot one, who is also an artist and-

MC2: As hot as Ota?

MC3: Oh honey, they don’t play in the same league. They don’t even play the same sport. Honestly, everywhere he goes all the women lose their minds within a five mile radius. He is mature, sophisticated, charming and the epitome of sexiness…

MC2: You know those are nearly the same words which I used to describe Shunichiro? [smirks]

MC3: Oh! Well sorry hun, I mean Shun is hot but, Lou is a God with thousands of years’ experience, I don’t think he is fit to hold a candle to him. Not now, not ever.

Eisuke [furrows his brows]: What the hell does that woman mean “with thousands of years’ experience”? I thought the talk about those so called “Gods” and their so called “abilities” was just some kind of joke?

Baba: Mmhh… I also thought they were just talking about some strange game. I mean, there are games especially designed for women. What are they called… otame… omate… No wait… otome games!

Ota: Why the hell would you know something like that?!

Baba: Shut up, Ota. You are not in the position to ask me such a question after what I learned about you today.

MC3: He once suggested to paint me naked… I actually wanted to say yes. But I’d prefer if he did body painting on me directly.

Tauxolouve [muttering under his breath]: We can arrange that anytime, little lady…

MC3: And then we could ravish each other on a big piece of paper and see what kind of art our lovemaking would create.

[MC1 & MC2 are on cloud nine]

MC3: But he never has relationships that last longer than two weeks. What a stupid rule.

MC1: Two weeks is enough to fuck your brains out.

MC3: Not with him honey… not with him. I could orgasm on the spot just by looking at him. If it were up to me he could spend eternity inside me.

MC1: Spend eternity inside me… [starts daydreaming]

Kota: There she drifts off into her own little world again.

Ryo: It’s the source where all her lyrics come from, so don’t complain about it.

Kota [blushing]: I’m not.

MC3: Earth to MC1! Come back to us!

MC1: Huh? Uh, sorry girls.

Kota: She’s such a klutz.

MC1: Hah, one my colleagues always teases me about my habit of daydreaming.

[All gazes shift to Kota]

Kota: What’s wrong about stating the truth?

MC2: Oh, that one you always say behaves like a cat?

MC1: Yep, that’s him… Heh. [grins evilly]

Kyohei: Prep yourself, Kota, after tonight we know that grin means no good for any of us.

MC3: What is it?

MC1: Oh, I was just thinking that he even behaves more like a cat then the others know.

Nagito: Huh? What did you do, Ko?

Kota: …

MC1: One day he came home very late after a shooting, and I was still in the living room working on lyrics, when he sat down next to me and fell asleep right on the spot.

MC1: I took a picture of him, look.

MC3: What is it about guys always looking a hundred times more adorable when asleep?

MC2: I know right? [bewitched by the photo]

MC1: Oh wait hun. He didn’t notice of course, because he was completely knocked out, but in his sleep, he positioned his head right on my lap. He looked so adorable, and before I realized what I was doing I had already started to fondle his neck, and guess what he did - he let out the cutest purrs.

Nagito: Aww, Ko really is like a cat!

Kota [blushing furiously]: Shut up, this is the first time I’m hearing of this!

MC1: Oh there is more, he even started to curl his fingers into my dress, leaning further into my touch, as if he wanted more. [chuckles] Of course I couldn’t resist in making a record of this unique incident. You wanna see it?

MC2 & MC3: Umm… YES!

MC1: [shows video]

MC2 & MC3 [squealing]: AAAAWWWW…. Soooo cuuuute!

Kota [his face bright red]: Dammit, I’m a MAN and not CUTE!

Kyohei: Yeah sure Kitty.

Scorpio [looks at Leon and clicks his tongue]: Tch. Great, as if one pussy isn’t enough to handle.

-- a little later --

MC1 [sipping on her cocktail]: Wow… This one tastes excellent.

MC3: Let me try. [takes a sip] Hm. It’s okay, but not as good as the alcohol one of the Gods makes. I swear, it’s the best thing you’ve ever tasted. You should come over and have a taste if you two have the time!

Leon: Oh-ho, I am pretty intrigued by that idea. [smirks]

Huedhaut: [disinterested, not averting his gaze from the magazine he is reading]

MC3: Last time, we had a small gathering at the mansion, pretty much everyone was hammered, so I decided to shake is cool demeanor a little.

MC2: What did you do?

MC3 [smirking]: Heh… Well, I was quite drunk as well, so… I went up to him and told him straight up that I think he is totally into me.

Zyglavis: Like the wisest man in the heavens would fall for a trick like that.

Huedhaut: [covers his increasing nervousness by sipping on his wine]

MC3: He said „you’re right, all I think about is you and how much I want to devour you“ in such a monotone voice… I swear, if you look up the word “sarcasm” in a dictionary you’ll find his picture right next to it.

MC2: What a jerk…

MC3: I didn’t let it end like that of course.

[The rest of the Gods raise their heads]

Leon: Hue, what is the meaning of this?

Huedhaut [flipping the page of the magazine]: Wouldn’t you like to know.

MC3: I acted hurt, came closer and put my hand on his cheek, saying „but I have fallen for you… I know you don’t feel the same way about me but... I wanted you to know, or else I would have regretted it, I’m sorry“, as I gazed deeply into his eyes, slowly starting to close the distance between our lips.

MC1: Did he fall for it?

Zylgavis: No.

MC3: Yes!

[Zyglavis spits out his drink, his eyes as wide as saucers]

MC1 [laughs out loud]: You’re a genuis!

MC3: His large hand cupped my face and just as he was willing to kiss me I smiled proudly, gave him a small peck on the cheek and left him standing there, totally perplexed about what happened a moment ago.

Huedhaut [face as red as a tomato]: So this is what humiliation feels like? In that case I’m not really interested in experiencing it ever again.

MC2: You’re a bad, bad girl MC3! I like it!

Karno: Hmm… This is kind of surprising. I wouldn’t have thought that MC3 would be so inconsiderate, in the light of the fact of the kind of relationship she had with Hue in her past life.

Zyglavis: I have to agree, MC3 is usually so thoughtful and aware of other people’s feelings.

Huedhaut [gaze lowered, mumbling]: The fact that she doesn’t know about our past relationship may excuse her behavior.

Leon: What do you mean she doesn’t know?

Huedhaut: What part of this phrase is confusing you in particular? I never told her.

Leon [looks at Hue incredulously]: Don’t you think she has the right to know? You will clear this up Hue, otherwise I will.

Huedhaut: Fine, I will seek the necessary dialogue with her the next acceptable opportunity.

MC3: By the way girls, there’s something I’ve been worrying about…

MC1: What’s that?

MC3: Did you ever have a dream that felt SO real that in the end you couldn’t tell whether it was a dream or something that actually happened?

MC2: Yeah, I’m still hoping my current life is only a very realistic dream that I’ll soon wake up from.

MC1: Tell us from the start, what happened?

MC3: It was with the sleepy God. You know, this guy really loves marshmallows, so I took him shopping with me. When we were done it started to rain cats and dogs, we were soaking wet when we arrived at my place. We took a bath - MC1 stop smirking like that – separately and he offered to stay with me until I fell asleep.

[The Gods are looking at Aigonorus who dozed off in his chair]

Tauxolouve: Figures.

MC3: The thing is, he is super cute… especially when he is sleeping. So I didn’t really mind that he embraced me… [remembers the evening]

[Tauxolouve taps Aigonorus on the shoulder]

MC3: He has such strong arms and I absolutely love his smell. Like a mix of heaven and marshmallows.

[Tauxolouve is now violently shaking Aigonorus’ shoulder]

Aigonorus [still half asleep, mumbling]: …Whaddaya want?!

Tauxolouve: Be quiet and listen. She is talking about you and it’s criminally cute.

MC3: So we fell asleep. I dreamed that he wouldn’t wake up in the morning, and he was defenseless so… I crawled under the sheets as I position myself between his legs, slightly parting them so I could sit more comfortably. First I trailed kisses down his belly along his treasure-trail, playfully running my finger along the seam of his shorts always checking if he was really asleep. With no sign of waking up I simply continued by slowly pull his shorts down so I could finally take care of his already slightly erected manhood. I treated him really gently, moving my hand up and down his cock, licking it like a delicious treat until it was ready for my lips. I observed him the whole time, carefully checking that he did not wake up. His breathing quickly became fidgety, the muscles contracting to my movements and the best part was that he even softly started to moan, his eyes moving under his lids - he was clearly dreaming.

MC2 [smirks]: …And what a nice dream it was.

MC3 [grins]: Only the best for my sleeping beauty.

Aigonorus [blushing hard]: …

Tauxolouve [completely baffled]: Forget what I said about that cute stuff.

MC3: After a few more minutes he even grabbed my hair unconsciously which made me shriek back for a short moment, but he was still dreaming. So I continued to pleasure him, reading the reactions of his body that let me know he was getting closer to the edge. The moment he finally came a long moan escaped his lips, his big hands tightly grabbing my hair, his cock throbbing in my mouth, spilling his delicious cum into me. As I “cleaned” him up I carefully pulled his pants up again and positioned myself back in his arms. He woke with a start just a few moments later, his forehead dripping wet. “Is everything ok Ai?”, I asked him innocently. “Y-Yeah, e-ehm… Just had a v-very vivid dream”, he replies, his cheeks visibly flushed. “Oh… I hope it was about me... I smiled sweetly. “S-Sort of… Meh. You would never do something like that“, he said before lying down on the bed again, pulling me into a tight embrace, so unfortunately he didn’t notice the smug grin on my face.

MC1: What was it that you were worrying about again?

MC3: Oh, right! Well, I woke up for real later on and he was already awake, looking at me with loving eyes, gently whispering “That was nice, let’s do that again sometime”, and without another word he left, leaving me completely baffled. So I don’t know whether I was dreaming or if I actually did THAT and fell asleep again and couldn’t remember later-

MC2: Calm down MC3, I’m sure he only meant about the marshmallow thing with his comment!

MC3: You may be right.

Aigonorus: …Yeah, the marshmallows and something even sweeter.

Taxolouve: What do you mean “something even sweeter”?!

Aigonorus: Meh. You don’t have to know everything Lou.

[All gods look at Aigo, not sure if he was joking or if there was more behind his comment]

MC3: Okay ladies, enough of the dirty talk, let’s go to the dance floor and dance our asses off!

MC1: Yeah, let’s go and show those guys how to have fun!

MC2: Awwww, what a pity, i wasn’t even finished with all of the bidders! [laughs]

MC3: Haha, we have plenty of time hun, tell us next time [winks at MC2]

[The girls stand up and cheerfully walk onto the dancefloor, not sure what the night still holds for them]

THE END (?)

**** Credits **** Vega and I wanted to thank every one of you for your amazing support, all the comments and your awesome feedback! It was planned to be a humorous series which should brighten up the reader’s day and I was really touched to hear that we were able to actually move some of you. Please let us know what were your favourite parts, what did surprise you the most and let you laugh the hardest - we are really curious to know! We hope some of you will also support us in future projects (and we assure you, there will be plenty). We notice every like, comment, reblog and message you send us and are so grateful for it ❤❤❤ Have a look at my Masterpost for more content or at Vega’s running series “The Rise of Aries” if you want to support us further ❤ With lots of love

Tamara & Vega

****

“We are really sorry…” Partheno replies his gaze lowered and gloomy, making him even look more heartbroken, including the fact that he was still in his female form as well as under the influence of the effect of the birth control pills. “Lou and I were curious to see what else the ladies would reveal when they got loosened up a little more…. “ he explained, now starting to sob.

Zyglavis furrowed his brows and lets out a loud sigh, his hand brushing his chin “This would at least explain why they got so emotional and even exceeded their level of honesty at the end of their conversation…” he murmurs barely audible.

“Heh, it was indeed very amusing Minister Ponytail, never would I have guessed that this stuck-up body of yours even knows how to properly react to a woman’s presence.” Leon replies with a devilish smirk.

“I will not even lower myself to your level as to comment on this statement.” Zyglavis answers, while his face still flushes red in embarrassment. “Solving this issue is of utmost importance as of now.”

Leon’s expression turns serious again as he noddingly agrees s to Zyglavis’ input. “So what do you suggest we do with all those stupid goldfish? I mean the whole bar is knocked out.”

“Let’s pick up the MC’s and bring them to the mansion until the effect of the drugs subsides.” Zyglavis answers casually.

“Considering the wishes of the ladies as well as observing the various reactions I am assuming these men” Huedhaut points his chin to the tables where the bidders and the Revence members are lying unconscious “-are the bosses from MC1 and MC2.”

“Tch, who cares, we take those stupid women and then we get the hell out of here.” Scorpio throws in.

“I don’t want to interfere but I find it rather thoughtless to leave those humans behind. We don’t know whether the drugs Partheno and Lou gave them have any side-effects and it would not be fair to let the other MC’s pay the price for something our people have done.”

“Karno, compassionate as always” Leon replies as he tenderly smiles at him, his gaze still roaming over the body of his female Vice-Minister.  

“Dammit, get yourself a room and stop it with this lovey-dovey shit.” Scorpio growls, a disgusted expression grazing his features.

“Ehem. Back to the topic…” Karno says, covering the nervousness that had started to build up inside him.

“Why did you dumbasses have to mix up the frickin’ drinks?!” Surprised about his sudden input all gods turn to Krioff, body leaned against a wall, his glare fixed on Partheno and Taxolouve. Saving the two from shitting their pants in fear of the God of Aries, a sweet chuckle echoed through the bar, shifting their attention elsewhere.

“What are you laughing at, problem child?!” Scorpio scoffs at Ichthys who is flashing the gods his trademark mischievous grin, one hand on his luscious hips.

“Hahaha, I can’t believe they actually did it!” “I am at such a state that it would have genuinely surprised me that the source of all chaos has not been you again.”, Zyglavis comments, annoyingly massaging his palms. “Aw come on! I said they should just drug all the drinks if they wanted to make sure the MC’s got them… but it was a jooooke!” he explains as his painted lips turn up into a smirk, lighting up his female features.

“This really displeases me. Now we have to take a bunch of goldfish to our place just because you were so astronomically stupid as to listen to the damn fish!” Leon snaps his finger and the gods, the other guys and the three MC’s disappear in an instant.

-- To be continued --

Jazz found it easier to say goodbye to some than to others. Minato was easy, as were Aki and Momo. Atsumu was very hard, over the time she had grown to like the slightly awkward bartender. Mieke was the worst. The usually so stoic girl sniffled, but refused to cry. She hugged Jazz and Miho tightly, patted their backs and avoided their gazes when it was time to leave.

“We are keeping in touch,” Miho promised, after all she was still owner of the club. Only Jazz had cut all ties and transferred her shares of the club. A princess couldn’t be involved in that kind of business after all.

“Miss Jazz.” Luke and H were standing, waiting patiently for their turn to say goodbye.

“Hey Luke. So you are staying here, huh? If you ever need a job, you can always call me.” Jazz wiped her eyes, hugged H before she also embraced Luke who froze, stiff like a board.

“By the way, I think the police would like to talk to you. Although at this point it shouldn’t matter anymore. They ran out of suspects.” She chuckled breathily, shook her head.

“Yes, about that – why haven’t you told them? I mean, you could have just handed me over.”

“Did you do it? Did you attack the prince?” she asked, not even believing it for a second.

“No. But I might have an idea who did it.” He sheepishly looked at the floor, shuffled his feet anxiously.

“Really? Now that would have been nice to know when they took me away for questioning.” Jazz sighed but patted his shoulder. “It’s okay, Luke, everything turned out well for me after all. Plus you are officially my employee so I guess they would have doubted a statement coming from you anyway. As long as you were coming to my defense, that is.”

“What? Of course! I mean, I never saw you before I came to this club and I know that His Highness hasn’t either. But he has been meeting with this private investigator in secret. I’m not sure, but he might have been the one to attack His Highness.”

A sharp inhale gave Jazz’s surprise away. “And why didn’t you tell that the police when they were still suspecting you?”

“Because I had no proof for it. I never met that investigator and don’t even know his name. His Highness only referred to him as ‘Mr. B’.”

Jazz turned her head slightly, scanned the room for a certain dancer. “Mr. B, huh? Someone who could tell the prince all kinds of private stuff about me. As if he knew me. As if he could get close to me. Now that’s interesting.”    

She said goodbye to Luke and H, turned around and marched towards Baba, grabbed his arm and pulled him towards the dancers’ changing room.

“I just heard an interesting little story about someone selling information about me to a certain royal. Do you have anything to tell me?” she hissed, yanked him around so they faced each other.

“Aww, princess, do you want a nice little souvenir before you leave? All you have to do is ask, you know?”    

“I did just ask, but you only hear what you want to hear. I’m not kidding, Baba, I really want to know: Did you make this profile of me for the prince of Liberty?” Even in heels Jazz was smaller by a head but she was right in his face, eyes blazing and her voice pressed.

“I did,” he admitted casually.

“Dammit! Why? Why do you do such bullshit? I thought you were working for us!” Her clenched fists trembled, she took a few deep breaths to calm down.

“You know me, I’m not the man for something exclusive. Besides, I figured it would be better if I gave him all this information and keep an eye on him. Miho thought so, too.” He flashed her a smile and winked at her.

“Miho knew?” Jazz took a few steps backwards, bumped into a vanity.

“She didn’t tell you? Well, that’s an issue between you and her, leave me out of it. But in case you wonder, I didn’t bash his head in – although it was tempting, he’s really an unpleasant fella. So whoever did it, they did you a solid.” He tipped his hat and nodded once. “I’m not sure if we will meet again, pretty lady, but don’t worry. I won’t mess with you anymore.”

“You sure as hell won’t. Remember, I have a whole country at my disposal now. And I’m sure I can influence the royal family of Liberty to revoke your status.” It was an empty threat but she couldn’t let him have the last word in this conversation. Her good mood was gone now, especially since she knew she would have to talk with Miho about this.

--------------------------

“Gosh, I’m exhausted,” Miho said and slid into the waiting car, Zain behind the wheel.

Jazz followed her inside, they had stashed the most presents in the trunk but she was still holding on to a box of chocolates.

“What’s wrong? Cat got your tongue?” Miho’s hand hovered over the chocolate Jazz was offering her, chose one and popped it in her mouth.

“No, I’m just not sure how to start the conversation I’m having in my mind.”

“With yourself?” Quickly Miho wiped her bottom lip before molten chocolate could drip onto her chin.

“No, with you.” Jazz turned to face Miho, her brows drawn together, hesitating and searching for the right words.

“A conversation takes two, you know? So how about you just spill it so I can join instead of having it only in your mind?”

A slow nod and Jazz took a deep breath. “Why haven’t you told me about Baba being the one giving Prince Asshole all that info?”

For once in their friendship Miho was at a loss for words. This was important so she thought about her answer carefully.

“I wasn’t sure if you really need to know about it. I mean, there was a creepy guy trying to get close to you so I did the most logical thing.”

“Told Baba to kill him?”

Miho’s eyes went wide. “What? No, of course not. Baba always claims to be a lover, not a fighter, and I guess it’s true. No, I hired Kirisawa. Jacked up the security. Told Baba to keep an eye on that guy. Stuff like that.”

“And it never crossed your mind to tell me about it? Give me a warning before Zain waltzed in and dropped the princess bomb?” The box of chocolate landed on the backseat between Jazz and Miho, abandoned now that Jazz didn’t need a prop to hold on to anymore.

“You got the wrong idea here. I had no clue that you are a princess. Or that Keith is a prince. All I knew was that there was a guy basically stalking you for no other reason than you being you. It only started making sense after Zain showed up but by then Keith had already been attacked and I figured if I said something it would only make you look suspicious. Or me.”

Jazz mulled Miho’s words over. “So in short, you knew about Keith but not about the princess thing. And you didn’t send Baba to attack Keith either.”

“Exactly. Actually I really doubt it was Baba at all.” Miho slumped back into the seat, exhaled deeply.

“And it wasn’t you either, right?” It wasn’t really a question, just a prompt for confirmation that Miho immediately gave.

“Of course not. I was at home at that time, getting ready for work.”

“Yeah, I know. We had to provide our alibis for the investigation through my lawyers after all.” Jazz nodded, tired now and still confused. “Next time you find out some important things like that, please tell me. You don’t need to shield me from everything, I’m not that weak.”

Miho’s answering grunt wasn’t affirmative or negating, just a sign that she was still listening. For now that was enough for Jazz.

 --------------------------

“Private planes are pretty awesome,” Miho just said and stashed her last bag in the trunk of the car.

“Sure they are. Best thing about it is that we don’t have to bother with the whole boarding process.”

Jazz was already sitting on the backseat, some tea in a travel mug. Only four hours of sleep left her cranky and the new revelations of the night before were still swirling in her mind. Absentmindedly she stared out of the window, blinked a few times and furrowed her brow.

“Hey, is that Goto?”

Miho’s head shot around, she muttered some curses under her breath and straightened up. “Gimme a sec, I guess this won’t be pretty.”

“Sure thing. Call me if you need me.”

Once he had spotted Miho next to the car Goto came over, unhurried strides until he was only an arm’s length away from her.

“You are leaving.”

No greeting, nothing. Just a simple observation.

“You know I would.” Miho rubbed her upper arms, met his gaze head on.

“I was hoping you would at least give me a proper goodbye. Maybe even an answer to my questions.” He inhaled shakily, flashed her a sad smile.

“What questions? If we could try it again? If I could forgive you? Sorry, it’s just – I don’t think I can.”

He tilted his head slightly, grey eyes trained on hers. “So you decided you would just bolt?” His slow nod held no accusation, but a hint of disappointment.

“Can you blame me? I’m not keen on dragging this out for longer than absolutely necessary. Shit, I’m not the most emotional person even on a good day and believe me, I haven’t had a good day in a while. So can we just act like fuckin’ adults and part ways here without making a scene?”

‘Without making it even harder’ was what she didn’t say.

“Of course. Sorry, I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable. Have a safe trip and in case you ever need anything – give me a call, okay?” He just stood there, hands by his side, made no move to touch her, hug her, or even shake her hand. As if he had just given up.

“Yeah, sure. Okay, I’m off now.” But she didn’t move.

“Either you kiss and make up now or you get into the car, Miho. We don’t have all the time in the world,” Jazz yelled, made Miho turn around and glare at her. When she looked back at Goto he was observing intently.

“I think I go with the second option,” she mumbled, waved awkwardly and fled into the car.

He stared after them until the car vanished from his sight.

 -----------------------------------

Flying on a private plane turned out to be really different. The plane was much smaller but very luxurious on the inside. There was no limit for the luggage and enough legroom no matter what seat they chose.

“I could get used to this,” Miho declared and accepted a glass of champagne that Zain offered her.

“You better. From now on it’s this or a sedan – at least for me.” Jazz grinned but declined the champagne. “How long will it take?”

“About eight hours, Milady.” He brought her a glass of water and left to discuss something with the crew.

“Are you okay?” No matter what issues Jazz and Miho were having, it was obvious that the encounter with Goto earlier had shaken Miho up.

“Not really. But there’s not much I can do about it, is there?” The glass in Miho’s hand was already half empty. At least she would be able to sleep during the flight. She was tired enough to sleep through a whole week.

“From my spot in the car I couldn’t really hear you, but you both looked pretty miserable. I guess you crushed his hopes.”

Miho sniffed, drained her glass. “His own fault for having hopes to begin with. It’s better to have no expectations so you can’t get disappointed.”    

“Whoa, talk about being cynic. Is it that bad?”

“Worse.”

Jazz whistled lowly, rolled her eyes but didn’t pry. “You know, I’m here for you. Just say the word.”

“Yeah, I know. I’m tired. I will try to sleep a bit.” Miho got comfortable in her seat and closed her eyes, willed the image of a crestfallen Goto out of her head.

Living in Nobel Michel Castle was like living in a completely different world. The first day passed in a blur, jet lag and lack of sleep mixed with anxiety and confused feelings. Both Miho and Jazz were tight-lipped, moody and hungover from life.

Jazz’s mood brightened in the next few days after some decent nights of sleep in an amazing bed – unfortunately on her own – and some hours in a huge bathtub. Miho kept moping around, but she pulled herself together whenever she attended public events.

They met dozens of new people every day, more than once Zain had to discreetly whisper the name and/or title of someone Jazz had already been introduced to before so it didn’t get embarrassing. Thanks to his rigorous lessons Jazz was well prepared though, and when the day came to finally present the heiress to the public she was nervous but ready.  

“The media is already waiting for you,” Zain informed her. “You are going to appear on the balcony, they can take some pictures of you waving into the crowd next to His Grace and your parents. And we still need an official portrait that we can submit to the press. After you are done, of course.”

An army of stylists, hairdressers and makeup artists was busy turning a slightly bleary-eyed Jazz into a graceful princess.

“Okay, are you the one taking that picture? I mean, we are talking about photography, right? I don’t have to sit for hours for someone to paint me.”

A slight smile played on Zain’s lips. “Yes, we are indeed talking about photography, Milady. But it won’t be me taking that photo, we actually have someone for that.”

“Of course we do,” she dryly replied, unable to nod without sending a myriad of hairpins flying and making a couple of hairdressers wail in protest. “I only hope people will be able to recognize me once this makeover is done.”

“It is only important that a few people actually recognize you, Milady. Most will see you like this for the very first time.”

Jazz grumbled but closed her eyes on demand of a stylist. She dozed off for a moment, woke up when someone told her to get up and change into the dress that the stylists had chosen.

Still in a daze she followed Zain to get her picture taken, through hallways that all looked the same to a small parlor with lots of natural light.

“Her Highness, Princess Jazzeline of Nobel Michel,” Zain announced her to the person who was still setting up the camera and equipment.

Jazz’s heart skipped a beat when she saw the familiar ponytail, the broad back and firm ass – yes, she checked that out, too.

“Jinpachi?” She took a step forwards, remembered her position and stopped, stared at him while he grinned after turning to face her.

“Zain, would you be so kind and introduce us?”

“Milady, this is Mr. Yushima. He is a famous photographer in Japan and just recently agreed on being our court photographer. His Grace insisted on him for this position.” The tiny smirk on Zain’s face was an even bigger surprise than the sudden appearance of the man she crushed on so hard.

“He did? Well, remind me to say thank you to grandpa later.”

“I will. I’m afraid I have to take care of some other pressing matters now. Please be ready in half an hour – and take care of your appearance, Milady.” He bowed and left Jazz with Jinpachi and a distance between them that felt like a mile to her, although it was only a few steps.  

“So, you are a princess now, huh?” He turned his camera in his hands, looked at it intently. “Does that mean I have to curtsy now?”

Her laughter broke the tension and she shook her head.

“No, it’s fine. Well, to be honest, if we are in company of others you would have to bow your head once, for protocol. And call me ‘Your Grace’ or ‘Milady’. But aside from that…” She shrugged, bit her bottom lip. How could nervousness and relief make her heart flutter at the same time?

“In that case, Milady, would you please sit down over there? I have to check if the light is right.”  

Disappointment chased every other feeling away now, washed over Jazz who nodded weakly and followed his instructions. He was here to do a job. Nothing else.

“I’m sorry,” she said and cleared her throat. “For not telling you sooner. It was all so surreal and I tried not to involve too many people in this mess.”

He motioned for her to turn her head and grunted.

“It’s fine. Not sure I would have believed you anyway.” The camera shutter clicked, once, twice, three times. “Lift your chin a bit. Yeah, like that.”

Again the camera clicked but he mumbled something she couldn’t understand.

“Since when do you know? I mean, you accepted this job – what? A month ago?” She held the pose he asked her to take, but her eyes followed him while he rearranged the lights.

“Actually the job that made me leave Japan was a different one. Imagine my surprise when I landed in some country just to get a call from the ruler of a small princedom, offering me a job.”

He watched her intently, came closer and tucked some hair behind her ear.

“Perfect.”

He pulled back, kept looking into her eyes.

“Hey, is it – you know, we said we could meet when we are in the same timezone again. Is it –“ He hesitated, his gaze flitted from her eyes to her lips and back.

Without giving a thought about her makeup and hairdo Jazz jumped him, literally threw herself into his arms and kissed him.  

Although surprised he kissed her back, held her tightly until they had to part and gasp for air.

“Shit, you ruin your lipstick,” he panted, but his eyes sparkled.

“Forget the lipstick, that’s easily fixed.” She pressed another kiss on the corner of his lips, pulled back and stared at him anxiously. “To me it’s more important if we can fix this – this thing between us.”

“Good question. I mean, this is really crazy.” He laughed briefly, kept smiling while Jazz wiped away a smudge of her lipstick from his skin.

“Yeah, I guess it is. To be honest, I have no idea what I’m doing here and if it’s even allowed for me to kiss someone and everything.” Her thumb kept rubbing his jaw lightly, the stubble on his skin tickled, reminded her that this was real and not just some dream. “But I’m really, really happy that you are here.”

Jinpachi pulled her closer again, dropped a soft kiss on the tip of her nose. “So am I.”

The public was presented with a brightly smiling princess that day. Even Miho couldn’t suppress a smile when she noticed Jazz’s good mood. Her first genuine smile ever since they had appeared in Nobel Michel.

 6 months later

“Well, so far everything is quiet over here. The police hit a wall and never made the break they needed. But as I heard the prince got better already,” the man on the phone just said, made Miho nod although he couldn’t see her.

“Yeah, he recovered but has no memory of the attack. Like, nothing at all. But when he met Jazz for the first time there was no sudden return of his memory and that somehow supported her story so they consider her innocent by now. Or they are simply scared out of their pants because a whole army of lawyers tore them apart.” She chuckled with a deep sense of satisfaction, a nice little feeling that kept her warm at night ever since she heard about the latest developments in that case.

“So the prince is up but his attacker still unknown. What a pity. I had hoped he would remember who it was and solve the case.”

“Well, the police obviously won’t solve it so it will remain a mystery. But you have been right, that prince is a huge pain in the ass. Very conceited and demanding. Reminds me of a certain asshole over there.”

Miho gazed outside, saw a parade of people coming and going. The party preparations were in full swing, she only wanted to wrap some things up before she changed into her formal clothes and joined the guests that came to celebrate the joyous occasion.

“And how did our princess like her suitor?”

“It doesn’t matter if she likes him or not. She’s a princess, he’s a prince. End of the story.” Wryly Miho looked at the invitation, they all had seen it coming after all.

“Happily ever after?”

Miho barked a ‘Ha!’, but changed the topic. “So they still have no lead? No suspect, nothing?”

“No,” Baba confirmed. “But there are a few rumors starting to spread. Someone can’t keep their mouth shut – especially when a pretty guy treats them to a few drinks.”

Miho groaned, scratched with a fingernail at some stain on the top of her desk.

“So hard to find good staff,” she grumbled, mind racing already.

“That’s why you like working with me. I’m the best in my field.”

“And so modest,” she deadpanned, shook her head lightly. He couldn’t see her anyway.

“Exactly. Now, be honest. How long are you going to stay there and play the good girl? Wouldn’t you rather come back and have some fun here?”

“I’m not playing, I’m actually having a great job here. A leading position and all.” As promised Jazz had made her the head of a ministry. Not only because they were friends, but based on Miho’s qualifications as successful business woman.

“But now that the princess gets engaged she won’t need you anymore,” he pointed out.

“Now you are spouting nonsense,” she harshly answered, the irritation increased with every word he said. “It’s not about if she needs me here, but that she wants me here. It’s different, but I like it here. I’m not coming back.”

“If you say so,” he airily replied, let some seconds pass in silence. “Anyway, I just wanted to tell you the latest gossip. You better take care of it before it becomes a problem. Or should I-?” His offer hung in the air between them as if they were in the same room and not separated by a whole continent and ocean.

“Don’t worry, I got this. You better keep an eye on your own problems, Mr. Diplomat. I have to get ready for the party now. We keep in touch.”

“Sure. And tell the princess congrats to her engagement from me. Not sure if that’s really what she wants, but I hope she is happy.”

Miho laughed wryly and ended the call, stared at her dress gloomily. She wasn’t in the mood for a party and there were things she had to take care of, people to track and arrangements to make.

 -------------------------

Jazz turned in front of the mirror, checked the fit of the evening gown she was wearing. Everything was so over the top it was ridiculous, but part of the tradition and protocol so there was not much she could do about it.

Was this really okay? Maybe this engagement was rushed but she wasn’t that young anymore and after the coronation she would have to marry soon. Could as well get over with now. She sighed when her gaze fell on the picture on her dresser; one of the few Jinpachi had taken back then. She shook her head to repel the strange melancholia that overcame her whenever she thought back to their time in Tokyo. Everything had been new and everything had seemed possible.

A knock at her door startled her out of her thoughts.

“Hey princess, you better get ready. Everyone’s waiting for you.”

Jazz smiled at the sound of Miho’s voice. “Get in here and help me with my nerves.”

She kept her eyes on the reflection in the mirror, watched Miho step behind her, hands lightly on Jazz’s hips.

“You ready?”

“As much as I’ll ever be.” Jazz inhaled deeply, held the breath briefly before she exhaled again. “Just a bit nervous.”

“Well, this will change things forever. Or until you decide to either call the engagement off or get a divorce later. So actually it’s not a biggie.”

With her laughter some of the tension vanished from Jazz’s shoulders, her smile got brighter, more genuine.

“How is Jinpachi feeling about this?” Miho asked, rested her chin on Jazz’s shoulder.

“He knows that I don’t have much of a choice. Comes with the job and all. But you know how dedicated he is to his own job so he gets it. Can’t say he’s exactly happy, but he will come to terms with it.”

Jazz was aware that this wasn’t fair to him, but he never really complained. All he said was that she had to be happy in the end, even it meant for him to take a spot in the background, away from the spotlights.

“And what is Keith’s opinion? Because we both know he has one and won’t hold back until everyone knows about it.” Miho’s expression got sour; since she had met the prince they were like cat and dog. He was practically Ichinomiya light.

“Oh please! I have to deal with him enough already, give me a break.” Jazz smoothed down her dress, glanced a last time at the Jinpachi’s picture and turned around. “I’m ready, let’s go and announce my engagement to the whole world.”

“You think we could do that without Keith?” Miho hopefully asked but sighed when Jazz shook her head. “Figured. Well, at least there will be booze.”

“Oh, don’t you worry, I have something arranged that will take your mind off Keith for now.” With a sardonic smile Jazz swept towards the door, looked back over her shoulder. “You coming?”

“Don’t know. Is it part of your surprise?” Miho had never really liked surprises, even less now that Jazz grinned like a lunatic.

 ------------------------------

After the official announcement Miho stared at the table, a bit elevated on the other side of the ball room, where Jazz and Jinpachi were sitting, gazing lovingly at each other every now and then. There had been mixed responses from the media, especially when word got out that Jazz had been wooed by several other suitors, princes and nobles, but in the end chose the man she loved over a politically beneficial union.

Prince Keith in particular had sulked for some time, but everyone blamed it on his recent recovery and the fact that he was still shaken from the attack. An excuse he exhausted ad nauseam.

Jazz just whispered something to her brand new fiancé who smiled, now actually looked the part of a future prince consort with his goatee shaved off, the hair cut and fixed into a sophisticated style. He had only changed in appearance, though. He still acted a bit blunt, but openly adored Jazz and with that Miho was happy. Or at least less annoyed.

“Milady, the Earl of Greenlay asks for a moment of your time,” Zain interrupted Miho’s musing.

“Him again? I swear, I would just kick his ass out of the palace if he wouldn’t be into that stuff,” she grumbled, straightened up and threw a last gaze at the happy couple. Maybe it was time for her to settle down, too. But not with someone like that earl. The title was appealing, but couldn’t hide the fact that the man behind it was boring and unpleasant.  

“I’m sorry, Master Zain, but Miss Fujiwara is needed elsewhere.”

That voice. It crawled up Miho’s spine, prickled on her skin, sounded in her ears even after the man behind her stopped talking.

“Is that so? Well, in that case I will inform the earl about it. Oh, Milady, have you already met our newest member of the security squad?”

With a dirty look towards Zain who smiled smugly Miho shrugged.

“I think I already know him. Thanks for the warning.”

A tiny bow and Zain left, made room so Goto could step into his place.

“I take that Jazz didn’t inform you, then.”

“It’s Princess Jazzeline or ‘Her Grace’ to you,” Miho reminded him sternly, avoided looking at him.  “Did she hire you herself? Or was Zain playing Cupid again, just like with Jinpachi back then?”    

“No, Her Grace invited me herself. She said, and I’m quoting now, that you would ‘mope around and complain about the unslapability of the bums of the men around here’. And she asked me if I had meant what I said back then. That I would come and follow you anytime. Because I love you.”

Despite his serious gaze Miho snorted, curled up her lips in a sneer.

“And that’s it? Because Jazz hired you I should forgive you?”

Goto shook his head slowly, but didn’t step closer. Gave her space, the chance to just turn around and leave.

“I don’t expect you to forgive me just like that. But I hope you will give me another chance to prove how serious I am.”

Half a year ago she would have just told him to get out of her sight and never bother her again. The time they spent apart didn’t lessen the feeling of betrayal and hurt, but it made all the good things, the passionate nights and tender moments seem so much more intense, vivid. To a degree that Miho wanted them back.

But only to her own conditions.

“I will never forgive you for attacking me in that hallway. I still remember the panic when you pressed me against the wall, threatened me, told me not to move. In any other setting it would have been a huge turn on, but not like that. Truth is, I’m not sure if I will ever be able to get over that. Everything else you hid from me – well, I guess it’s only an extension of that first attack. Of that first lie.” Her gaze was directed at Jazz and Jinpachi, the hand with the glass of champagne only trembled slightly.

“Is that your answer?” he quietly asked, watched her how she watched the couple of newly engaged royals to be.

Miho downed her champagne, put the glass aside and faced him.

“I can’t get something Jazz said out of my mind. When she talked to Namba she said that she fell for the choreographer, not the cop. That one is actually a stranger to her.” As if they were two different people. Could she really pretend it was like that?

“I remember,” Goto agreed, focused completely on Miho now.

“I know this will come back and bite me in the ass, but I can’t help wondering, what if the man who did all that, the stalking and the lying, what if he was the cop? Not the man I knew and hopefully not the one standing here with me right now.”

He quickly looked around, the crowd of guests didn’t pay much attention to them but privacy was nowhere to be found in the banquet hall.

“Come with me,” he suggested, gestured to the tall folding doors, but Miho crossed her arms in front of her, stared at him intently.

“Not before I have an answer.”

His shoulders sagged when he exhaled deeply, his hand in his neck, scratching the skin under his hairline nervously.

“I would have preferred to do this without an audience, but I understand your need for safety. Fine.”

From the pocket of his jacket he pulled a small box, not one of the velvet ones that already give away so much about their content, a dark one, flat and oblong.

“If this is the key to your heart or something equally cheesy you can keep it,” she pouted, made no attempt to take the box from his hand.

“You wanted to know who I am. This is your answer.”

There it sat, on his palm, for her to take if she dared to. Miho wasn’t a coward. She took what she wanted and dealt with the consequences afterwards, but she hesitated now. He had hurt her so much already, she wouldn’t be able to recover if that ever happened again. And yet her hand slowly reached out, grabbed the box and felt its weight, the smooth surface.

“Let’s go somewhere a bit more private.”

Whatever was inside the box, it would affect her, at least emotionally. She hadn’t spent the last few months building a reputation as stone cold bitch just to ruin it now by showing emotions.

There was a small balcony close by, Miho chose it since it was secluded enough for them to talk without interruptions but not as personal as her own living quarters. He still had to earn he honor of entering her personal space again.

“So, what is this all about?” She turned the box in her hand, looked at Goto who shrugged.

“Open it.”

A deep breath and Miho clicked the lid open, brows drawn together as she saw the small brass tag, a name that she knew very well imprinted neatly.

“Lieutenant Seiji Goto. Huh.” She looked at him for an explanation and he cleared his throat, picked up the name tag.

“That used to be me. Before I left Public Safety and started training to be a bodyguard. I wanted to give you my badge but I had to return it when I quit. This is all I have left from my old life. Just a name and a rank that’s not even mine anymore.” He took her hand, put the tag in her open palm and closed her fingers around it with his own.

“That man, the cop, he’s not the one standing here now. This-“ he motioned towards himself, “this is the man who fell in love with you, Miho. The one who never stopped loving you. Who changed his whole life, hoping to win you back somehow. This is the man who can’t live without you anymore. All I’m asking for is a chance to get to know this man. If you can’t grant me that or simply don’t feel the same after a while, I will leave you alone. But I will never stop loving you and I will never stop hoping.”      

Her hand trembled, the edges of the tag cut into her palm when she squeezed it tightly.

“Why should – why should I believe you now?”

“I don’t have an answer to that question.” He raised her shaking fist to his lips, kissed her knuckles. “But I guess this is where I ask you to trust me. Just this once.”  

Miho’s eyes slowly filled with tears but she stared at him without blinking.      

“What if I can’t?” she whispered, pushed his nametag back into his hands.

“Can’t you or don’t you want to? Because if you don’t want to that’s all the answer I need. If you think you can’t, I will show you how. I trust you, Miho. I did even when I had the order to prove you were guilty. I made a mistake, there’s no denying. I should have never betrayed you like that. But that mission was the whole reason I met you in the first place and no matter how messed up that is, I can’t regret it.” His hands cupped her face now, the thumbs rubbed gently across her cheek bones, caught the few stray tears before they could make it far down her cheeks.

“I’m not good with all that ‘showing emotions openly’ thing. But for you I want to. I want you to know me and I want to know everything about you, Miho. We didn’t have the best start, but what we had was real.”  

Into the silence between them Miho cleared her throat, sniffled briefly.

“So you are asking for a fresh start? Clean slate and all that?”

“If you think that’s possible, yes. I would like that very much.”

Miho grumbled under her breath, wiped her cheeks hastily.

“Fine. But before that I have to borrow your phone for a moment.”

“My phone?” Despite his irritation he reached into his jacket, handed her the phone and watched how she breathed deeply a few times, dialed a number and waited for a connection.

“Hm, maybe that’s an old number.” With a nonchalant shrug she handed the phone back. “Sorry, there’s no room for a phone in my clutch. And I just wanted to get this over with before we try a new start.”

His face lit up at her words, he pocketed his phone, didn’t even look at it.

“So, does that mean you forgive me?”  

“Eventually. I’m still mad at you and yes, I will let you feel it, but-“ She exhaled deeply, rolled her shoulders. “I kinda missed you, too.”

Swept up in his arms before Miho could even protest she found herself pressed against the door, the cool surface in contrast to his warmth.

Later she would have to tell Jazz that palace door bingo was on again. Jazz would tell her that she and Jinpachi had already a headstart.

For now Miho simply enjoyed the familiar touch and kiss of a man who had followed her halfway around the world to be with her. Music, chatter and other noises sounded from within the hall, the sounds of a party. But out on that balcony, only their kisses and muttered words of love and lust filled the space between them.

 Epilogue

“Now, pretty lady, someone told me that you have a new bodyguard.” The teasing lilt in Baba’s voice grated on Miho’s nerves, but she was softer now. Happier. She could let it slide this one time.

“I do. And he does a great job, guards my body every day if I want him to.” She peeked out of her office into the hallway, made sure that no one was around before she closed the door.

“You’re wounding me, Miho. Do you have to rub it in that I can’t have you?”

“I guess you are doing more of the rubbing than I, but let’s not get that low. You called for a reason?”

Quiet chuckling was heard over the phone and she could picture him, in that flashy suit with that hat.

“Indeed. I heard something else today and figured you might be interested in this. One of your former regulars died in a strange accident last night.”

“Is that so? Should I send flowers?” Unfazed she made a quick note, waited for him to tell her more.

“Funny that you say that. It’s the guy with the flower shop. You know, the one who goes by ‘Cathy’. If I remember correctly he caused some incidents at the club when he was stalking a dancer or two.”

Miho snorted briefly. “Yes, I remember. He sent them roses over and over until we had to give him a stern warning. But he had been good lately, so I was hoping he had gotten his act together. What happened to him? Some freaky sex accident?”

“Ah, no. Although I guess you would expect something like this when I say you would be interested. No, his phone exploded. Right in his face. Apparently he waited for a call.”

“Now that’s a hell of a booty call,” Miho dryly pointed out only for Baba to chuckle again.

“Anyway, I guess that’s solving your confidentiality problem. So, I will keep an eye on the club, but I guess there’s not much for me to do anymore. Feels like the end of an era.”

Now it was Miho’s turn to laugh. “Don’t worry, there’s still a lot for you to do. First, find out all you can about two police officers for me. Jin Namba and Hyogo Kaga. It might be enough for Jazz to make them suffer through her lawyers, but I am not that merciful.”

“So, you only want information so you can ruin their lives? How bad should it be on a scale from ‘I only want to discomfort them’ to ‘make their lives hell Miho style’?”

“What do you think? They messed with us, made Jazz cry on more than one occasion. I want hell to rain down on them every single second of every single day. So dig deep, I want to know everything. Every weakness, every secret sin.”

“Will do, pretty lady. I’m going to call you in a week, we can discuss everything else then.”

After their goodbyes Miho ended the call, set the phone down and reached for her necklace. One nuisance gone, two others still to take care of. With practiced ease she opened the pendant, the silver heart slid open to reveal a hidden compartment. The small piece of paper lying inside was safely tucked away but now she took it out, unfolded it and crossed out one name from the tiny list. With a sardonic grin she added two more names before she put the list back.

In fifteen minutes Jazz expected her to their weekly meeting. Enough time for Miho and Goto to defile another door.

Life in Nobel Michel was fun so far. And Miho would make sure that it stayed that way.