A King in Despair

was sitting in bed reading a book she had found in the vast library of the mansion. She sighed, feeling utterly and totally bored. She never wanted to get married at her age and certainly not to Atobe Keigo, but her parents had forced her to marry him because they found him a good match for her. She had only agreed because her father had emotionally blackmailed her.

“That old geezer,” she muttered bitterly, flipping through the pages of the book she was supposedly reading. “Aaaargghh!” She slammed the book down and threw it across the room.

Atobe opened the door to his bedroom and sidestepped the flying book. He looked over the bed and saw his wife looking at him with her hands crossed, a frown on her face.

“It’s you,” she said, looking away.

“Would it kill you to smile every now and then?” he sighed tiredly and walked to his side of the bed. didn’t say anything, just turned off her bedside lamp and turned her back to him, covering herself.

Atobe looked at her, frowning deeply while he undressed himself. What a brat, he thought, annoyed. When his father had suggested that he wanted him to try as a marriage prospect, he had objected because he didn’t want to marry the daughter of his father’s close friend. However, his father insisted that he should at least see the woman and then decide whether he liked her or not. U,nfortunately it was one of those things where he couldn’t do anything but agree. He lay on the bed and allowed his gaze to settle on the white ceiling, thinking of the first time they met. You only have yourself to blame, Keigo, he thought wryly. You told your old man to find you a wife and he got you the perfect brat.

He tucked his hands behind his head lazily as his thoughts led him back to the day of their first encounter. Their families had arranged to meet at one of the most prestigious restaurants in Tokyo,. He could still remember the beating of his heart when he laid eyes on her, he had fallen in love with her at first sight, she was wearing a long white strapless evening dress that hugged her lean body,, copper-colored embroidery adorned the dress from the waist downwards, it was a true piece of art and it suited perfectly. Her dark silky hair was pulled up in a band where some wild curls had escaped and fell over her bare shoulders. She was so beautiful,, he thought, smiling, but frowned immediately when his gaze travelled to the woman sharing his bed and who had her back turned at him.

His dream of a happily married life didn’t live long,. She had declared her dislike and disapproval from day one and didn’t want to talk or look at her husband. For the first time in his life Atobe struggled to get someone to like him or even notice him.

I don’t like him, thought as she lay in her side of the bed quietly waiting for sleep to take over her tired mind. She froze the moment she felt a pair of hands encircle her waist and hot breath on her neck. I will kill him if he tries someth… Her mind came to a halt when she felt his lips brushing over her skin.

“Turn around,” he whispered in her ear and waited patiently for her to do so.

didn’t turn. She just lay there with her back facing him.

He sighed heavily, forcing his heart not to fall into despair,. He had tried so many times to reach out to her that he had lost count.

I am not giving up this time.

He moved his hands and turned over so she was face to face with him.

She had her eyes closed, obviously pretending to be sleeping, Damn brat, he thought, smirking, and leaned in to kiss her. Before he could even touch her lips she opened her eyes, jerking her head backwards.

“What do you think you are doing?” she demanded angrily, pushing him away from her.

“Arn? I thought you were sleeping,” he said slyly and pulled her closer.

“You… I hate you… Don’t touch me,” she hissed and fought back to force him to let go of her, but Atobe was holding her firmly close to him. This time he would make her his, he was determined to conquer her heart and soul.

He ignored her shouts and captured her lips in a passionate kiss. froze at his audacity, - she could feel her blood boil and her mind fill with murderous thoughts,. She remained as cold as ice. His arms were closed tightly around her waist and he was kissing her strongly. He wanted her to respond to his kiss but he could feel the stiffness of her body and the coldness she was emanating.

He pulled away and looked at her. “You could at least pretend to kiss me back,” he said, disappointment washing over his beautiful features.

“I don’t want to pretend. I don’t like you, Atobe,” she said coldly and got up from the bed. “The moment you get that into your head, we will both be much better off.” She walked to door. “I will sleep in the guest room.” She closed the door behind her.

Stubborn woman, he thought frustrated, as he hugged the pillow next to him and tried to get some sleep. I will not let that bother me… I will not… I will not…

“Argh!” Atobe shouted, flinging the covers away. He got out of bed and marched straight to the guest room, ignoring the noise he was making. He flung the door open and glared at her. “Get back into the room,” he ordered in a low dangerous voice.

looked away.

Atobe walked over to her and without giving her an opportunity to resist, he grabbed and flung her over his shoulders.

“Eek… Hey!” yelled, hitting his shoulders as he walked back to their bedroom. “Put me down, you bastard!”

Atobe dropped her none too gently onto the bed and looked at her with his piercing gaze. “You don’t want me to touch you? That’s fine. But know this,: you are never sleeping on a separate bed. Marrying me cursed you to sharing a bed with me for life.”

just looked at him emotionlessly. She wanted to kill him. She wanted to rip that head of his and stomp on it. She wanted to wake up from the nightmare she was in and live her life like she did before she ever laid eyes on him, on the man that had turned her life into a living Hell. I will kill him and that old geezer too, she thought and turned on her side pulling the sheets over her body.

Atobe didn’t say anything else. He just climbed onto the bed and slept on his back with his arms by his side.  

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

The next day

The morning came quickly and Atobe had just finished his shower, he wore only his pants and the towel that was around his shoulders. He went into the bedroom and found still fast asleep. He caressed her hair softly, not wanting to wake her up. She looks so beautiful when she is quiet,, he thought, walking towards the closet.

After getting dressed he made his way to the dining room for his breakfast. He wasn’t in the mood to eat anything so he just drank his coffee while reading the newspaper. The silence in the room was deafening so he decided to leave for work, early.

In the limo on his way to work, his mind wandered to the previous night. He was thinking about his wife and what could possibly have gone wrong from the day they married. She looked happy when we first met. Why did she suddenly turn into a vicious cat after we got married?

He rubbed his aching temple, trying to. It’s not easy to sleep serenely when you have a beautiful body next to you, he thought wryly, closing his eyes.

But it’s not only about the sleeping, is it Keigo? He asked himself as he massaged his temples. A wife should always be there for you sharing every little detail of your life like eating together, shopping and having fun with you.  

Atobe shifted in his seat to get more comfortable and looked out the window through his sunglasses. Yet we haven’t done any of that. He frowned, noticing that lots of kids were on the streets today.

“I need a plan,” he muttered, rubbing his jaw, thinking.

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

stretched her hands over the covers. She looked to Atobe’s side and noticed that he wasn’t there. A light smile settled on her lips. He is not here, she thought cheerfully. Without getting out of bed, she searched for her phone on her night table. She flipped it open and called her friend,. She set a meeting with her at Shibuya for breakfast and shopping and got out of bed, heading straight to the bathroom to wash herself. I am in such a good mood today,, she thought as she washed her face, I’ll go shopping, I’m in a spending mood.

She took her time dressing while going through the evening dresses she had in her possession. I need to buy an evening dress for the charity party this Friday,, she thought, leaving the mansion.

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

“You are late, Atobe .” glared at her best friend, but it turned into a smile right away.

frowned at the mention of Atobe’s name. “That’s not even funny, .” She pouted and flung her arms around ’s shoulders. “I am in a good mood today. Please do not spoil it for me, because you will suffer the consequences otherwise.” She winked. “Now, let’s shop,” she said, smiling brightly and pulling her friend by the hand.

They walked for a long time, looking at different things and window-shopping until something finally caught ’s attention. “, let’s check out this store.” She grabbed ’s hand and pulled her along.

“,” said, looking at the shop, surprised. “Why did we come here?”

“I need a dress for Friday night. It’s for a charity party I have to attend,” answered automatically, her eyes pinned on a blue evening dress.

couldn’t understand would need a new dress with all the ones she already had,, but deep down she had a notion why. “Why do you need a new one? You have lots of dresses,” she said with a smile. “Maybe you want to impress that hubby of yours.” She giggled, poking in the ribs.

glared at , but her cell phone rang. She picked it up without checking the caller ID. “Hello?”

“I see you are awake.”

“What do you want?” rolled her eyes and moved to look at another dress that caught her eye. She held the sheer and expensive dress between her fingers and wondered if she should try it on or not.

“I want you to join me for lunch,” Atobe said flatly. He was in his office, signing papers as his secretary placed them in front of him. He skimmed through them at a good speed and finally signed the next one as he waited for to respond.  

“I don't,” she responded plainly. “I am out with a friend, so kindly don’t annoy me.” She hung up.

Atobe looked at the phone gritting his teeth. “That... BRAT!” he yelled, annoyed, and slammed his fist on his desk. He glared at the secretary and told her to leave him in peace. He was getting tired of her constant dismissal, but he wouldn't give up so easily. I will make her fall in love with me, he thought as he dialled her number again. That's a promise.

“Your phone is ringing.” poked on the arm.

“Will you stop poking me?” slapped ’s hand playfully. “I don't want to answer it.” She took the blue dress she was looking at and went to try it on. Her phone kept ringing and ringing until she finally decided to answer it. “What?” she snapped at the caller angrily.

“Should I be offended by the tone of your voice?”

“Oh! Hikaru?” she said surprised. “I am sorry. I thought you were someone else,” she admitted, walking into the dressing room. She took off her clothes while talking to the man called Hikaru and tried the dress on. She walked out of the changing room and walked to a mirror. She looked at her reflection and smiled. I love this dress, she thought, walking back to the changing room, the phone still in her hand.

“So, when can I see you?”

“I don't know. I am married, remember?” sighed and walked out of the changing room once again. She gave the dress to the girl and asked her to have it delivered to her house on Friday afternoon. “I will call you next week. We can go for lunch somewhere. Is that alright with you?” She waved at to let her know that she was done.

“That's fine. Take care,” Hikaru said in a low voice and hung up.

closed her phone and left the shop with following her.

After another two hours of shopping, returned home holding ten bags of clothes, shoes and accessories. A maid helped her carry the bags in the house and she left them beside the staircase. She walked to the living room and froze when she saw Atobe sitting there with his feet crossed, reading some papers.

“What are you doing here at this time?” she asked with one hand on her hip.

“I told you I wanted to have lunch with you,” he said indifferently, not taking his gaze away from the papers.

“And I said...” she began, but was cut off.

“I know what you said,” he interrupted, getting up and walking to her. “I also know that you hung up on me. I didn't like that. I respect the fact that you don't like being my wife, but you are and I would appreciate it if you would treat me with respect too.”

sighed. “I do. Do you hear me complain about the social events you drag me to?” She walked to the balcony and he followed her.

“No, but I would appreciate it if you would be nicer when we are together.” He looked at her and admired how beautiful she looked as the sun’s rays danced down her face and neck.

I guess I was a bit rude, she thought closing her eyes and inhaling the sweet scent of flowers from the garden below. She turned and sat on the railing, looking at him. “I am sorry I was rude,” she said with no expression, “I won’t hang up the phone at you, but I would like it if you’d stop calling me every twenty minutes.” She crossed her arms and looked at him straight in the eyes.

“I could do that,” he answered, walking towards the table on the balcony and sat on one of the chairs.

“I have a proposal for you. Why don't we place some rules that will help us coexist?” said as she straightened herself and moved to sit on the other vacant chair.

Atobe nodded at her suggestion and waited for her to continue. I have a vague feeling it will be something I will absolutely not like.

“I will have breakfast, lunch and dinner with you everyday,” said uninterestedly.

Atobe raised his eyebrow, while a small frown was forming its self on his face, after guessing what she wanted to say. “I assume there is a ‘but’ following that sentence.”

“Yes!” responded plainly, “You are not to touch me in any way,” she said bluntly, “The social events don't count.” She looked at him with a small hint of a smile gracing her lips as she got up and called a maid to request for lunch to be brought to them on the balcony.

Atobe΄s frown deepened upon hearing what had just said to him. He didn't like that arrangement. What the hell? I can’t touch you? Aren’t you my wife?

After talking to the maid, returned to her seat and, sat twiddling her fingers in front of her as her elbows rested gently on the arms of the chair. She waited patiently for Atobe to say something, but he was lost in his thoughts. ,Even after the maid brought their lunch he didn’t touch it.

“I thought you wanted to have lunch with me?” said while eating her salad.

“I lost my appetite,” Atobe snapped, still gazing at the garden.

placed her fork on her plate and looked at him, as she didn't like his tone of voice. “I’m sorry, did I miss something?” she asked, resting her chin in her hands.

He finally glared at her, “Do not patronize me, .”

“Oh!”

“I don't agree with the rules,” Atobe snorted, taking his wine glass and gulping it down in one go.

“I really don't care if you agree or not. I don't want to be intimate with you.” She shrugged and resumed eating her salad.

“That's ludicrous! We are married. Our parents are expecting grandchildren.” He stood up and walked to the edge of the balcony looking defeated. What is this woman thinking?

almost choked when she heard him say ‘grandchildren’,. Atobe turned around and looked at her when he heard her faint choke. He laughed inwardly when he saw her expression. “I have work to do. I will be in my study,” he said firmly and walked away without giving her a chance to respond.

’s shock turned into fury when he walked out on her. I hate him,, she thought, trying to clean up the mess she had caused.

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

Friday evening

walked out of the shower in a towel and went straight to the dressing room so she could get ready for the event. She walked to her dresser and sat down on the chair, taking the hair dryer out from the drawer. She switched it on and began blow-drying her hair.

She was irritated that she had to spend the evening with her husband. She had not spoken to him at all since the disastrous lunch day. She frowned, looking into her reflection and let out a sigh when she was done with her hair. She brushed it, allowing it to flow loose over her shoulders and stood up.

She pulled out the blue dress she had bought and scowled at it. It looks beautiful, but I don’t feel beautiful tonight, she thought sadly, placing it on the lounge chair. 

She sat on the chair in front of her dresser and kept her gaze on the dress. All right, , get your act together! Just get dressed and get this over with.

Atobe was waiting in the living room for before leaving for the charity party. Why do we always act like a couple only in front of people? He played with his glass of wine. Why does she hate me so much?, She never gave me a reason. His thoughts were interrupted when the woman he was thinking about walked in the room, announcing she was ready.

He gasped when his eyes fell on her but tried hard not to look affected by her beauty. He didn’t want to give her any sort of victory over him. The dress she was wearing emphasized her beautiful curves in a subtle yet seductive way.

He got up from his chair and made his way towards her slowly. He extended his arm and she held on to it lightly. They walked to the limo and he helped her get inside.

stole a glance at Atobe through the corner of her eye, - he was reading a newspaper. rolled her eyes. He is such a workaholic,, she thought, averting her gaze to the scenery outside of the moving car.

Atobe closed the newspaper and placed by his side,. He looked at and admired her. She is so beautiful. He moved and sat next to her.

looked at him. “Do you need something?” she asked dryly.

“No,” he answered and placed his hand on hers and lifted it to his lips.

turned around when she felt his hand on her and was stunned with his action. She pulled her hand away from his mouth and glared at him. “What do you think you are doing?” she asked, irritated. “I thought we said no touching.”

“I never agreed.” He shrugged his shoulders and moved away from her. “How can you expect me to not touch you when you look so beautiful? Besides you are my wife and I have every right to touch you,” he concluded.

“I don’t care what you think,” she said, looking away.

They sat in silence until they arrived at the Takemura manor. Atobe stepped out first and then helped come out. She stood beside him and tucked her hand under his elbow like a normal couple and they walked towards the entrance of the manor.

“Atobe-sama. Through this way please,” A butler, said, bowing politely.

Atobe and followed him into the grand ballroom.

“Atobe-san, you have a very beautiful wife,” Takemura Nobukazu said, looking at Atobe.

Atobe bowed politely. “Thanks you Takemura-sama. I consider myself very lucky,” he said with pride in his voice.

looked at him, staggered. I can’t believe he would say that in front of people, she thought. But she liked the tone in which he had stated his admiration.

“Oh! You must feel lucky too, -san,” Takemura said, bowing to in turn.

lifted her hand and covered her mouth, laughing sweetly. “Of course I am,” she smiled and hugged Atobe’s arm. “He is the best.”

“Oh!” Takemura laughed and drank his champagne in one gulp. “How is business going, Atobe-san?” he asked, changing the subject in a matter of seconds, taking another glass of champagne from a passing waiter.

“It’s going all right. Our company bought the Sannio bank and is expanding to Fukuoka,” Atobe said, seriously.

rolled her eyes at the change of subject and excused herself.

She walked around the ballroom, conversing with various people who were important to Atobe’s business. She finally found herself on the balcony that overlooked the pool and garden. She placed her hands on the stone railing and leaned forward to take a better look at the garden. 

sighed. There was a chilly breeze blowing and she shivered  a bit, but she didn’t want to go inside and pretend to be the happy wife. She wanted be alone,, away from all the curious looks of the gossiping ladies of high society.

She felt warm hands touch her shoulders.

“You’re shivering. You must be cold,” Atobe whispered in her ear. ’s heart started beating faster. She felt excited by the warmth his hands were producing on her skin. Why am I feeling this way? Panic hit her and she pulled away.

Atobe sighed, disappointed. “Let’s go inside,” he said and held a hand out to her.

looked at him hesitantly, but she reached for his hand and held it tightly. They walked back to the ballroom and for another hour.

“Keigo, I’m tired,” she whispered and hugged his arm.

Atobe looked at her and smiled. He lifted his hand and caressed her cheek lightly. stared at him. “Ladies, gentlemen.” He bowed. “We will be leaving now. It was a pleasure to see you all.” He concluded and walked away with by his side.

They bid Takemura good night and left the manor. They were in the limousine sitting close to each other. was feeling very sleepy and couldn’t keep her eyes open. Atobe placed his arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer to him.

“Why don’t you sleep until we get home?” he said softly.

“Keigo, I am too tired to argue with you. Please move your hands away.” She tried to get away from him, but couldn’t find the strength to do so.

Atobe chuckled. “Just close your eyes and sleep. I won’t bite,” he teased, kissing her forehead tenderly.

“Fine. You’re lucky I am too tired to argue, or else I would hit you,” she muttered under her breath, but loud enough for Atobe to hear. He chuckled.

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

Next morning

opened her eyes slowly. She looked to the side where Atobe usually slept and found it empty. She stretched her body, hands and legs, yawning lazily.

He’s probably downstairs, she thought, sitting up. She washed up and then got some clothes from her closet before returning to the bathroom. She took her pajamas off and placed them on the cabinet next to the shower door. Something is odd, she thought as she entered the shower.

After she finished with her warm shower, she dried herself and looked at the pajama on the cabinet. Wait a minute, she thought, looking at her pajamas carefully. This is black silk - my pajamas are always white.

froze on the spot as sudden realization hit her and she gasped at the thought. She dressed hurriedly and went down to the dining room. She opened the door but no one was there. It’s Sunday - where the hell is he?

She checked his study, the living room, the pool and the lower garden near the tennis court, but she couldn’t find him anywhere. She entered the mansion panting. “Where is my husband?” she asked a maid that was cleaning the entrance hall.

“He is in the music room,” the maid answered, bowing politely.

“We have a music room?” she asked, bewildered. I should take a good look at this house, she thought, following the maid to the music room.

“This is the music room,” the maid said suddenly and looked at the closed wooden door.

“Thank you,” she said sweetly and opened the door slowly. This door is a bit heavy. She stopped when she heard the melody of a beautiful tune played on the piano. That man, she thought wryly, I can’t believe he brings people over to play the piano just to entertain him. She shook her head and walked in the room.

The heavy wooden door closed behind her and she moved closer to the grand piano. She froze when she saw that it was Atobe playing the piano. What the...I didn’t know he plays the piano? She moved towards a big red couch and sat on it, enjoying the beautiful melody.

Atobe opened his eyes and saw sitting on the grand red couch with her eyes closed, enjoying the music he was playing. Maybe I should keep this up a bit, he thought, a smirk forming on his lips.

He played for another half hour and then stopped. He looked at with a smile.

opened her eyes the minute the melody finished. How long was I here for? She took a glance over at him and found him looking at her with a smile. A slight pink color painted her cheeks when she met his burning gaze.

She shook her head and regained her composure in a few seconds. She got off the couch and approached him with her hands on her hips, glaring daggers at him. “Who changed my clothes yesterday night?” she demanded.

Atobe was taken aback by ’s change of attitude, but didn’t show it. He ran his hand through his hair and smirked. “Everyone was asleep,” he answered simply.

“Please tell me that it was not you,” she said, exasperated. He has no right to change my clothes or touch me… how dare he?!

“Hmm... Is that your way of saying thank you?” He got up from the piano and walked towards a classic armchair, where he sat down and picked up a newspaper to read, ignoring her.

“You had no right to change my clothes!” shouted.

“I had every right,” Atobe responded calmly, flipping through the newspaper.

’s irritation level hit the roof and she stomped towards Atobe angrily. She grabbed the newspaper from his hand. “When I talk to you, I want you to look at me,” she hissed, annoyed at how calm he was.

“Honey, you are not talking. You are yelling.” He got up from his chair and kissed on the cheek. “I think I will go out for lunch. Enjoy yourself,” he said and left the room. Well done for plan A, he thought, amused. Now for plan B.

was looking at the wooden door, stunned. That man is playing with me. “Argh! I hate him,” she yelled in frustration as she stomped out of the music room.

She walked towards the poolside to calm herself down. She was almost relaxed, but her mobile phone rang and startled her.

“Yes?” she answered the phone aggravated.

“Hello sweetie. Why are you angry?”

“YOU! I am in no mood to talk to you!” hissed, “Why? Why him? Of all the men in Japan, why did you have to choose him?” she yelled, irritated, sitting down on a pool chair.

The man on the other end laughed and got even more annoyed. “Do not mock me, father. I am seriously irritated at the moment and you are NOT on my list of favorite people,” she said.

“He can’t be that bad,” laughed over the phone at his daughter’s complaints.

“Father, he is annoying, he is spoiled, and he is obnoxious. I hate him,” whined, playing with a lock of her hair.

“Hmm... I see... How about you meet me and your mother for lunch tomorrow?” he asked.

“I can’t tomorrow. I have plans. I am meeting Hikaru for lunch.” got up from her chair and walked towards the main house.

“Him again? You know I don’t like that man, . What are you doing going out with him?” said, sounding seriously displeased at the mention of his daughter’s friend.

“It’s none of your business. I will meet you for dinner tomorrow night. I have to go now, say `hi´ to mom for me,” said and hung up. What the hell? First, he chooses my husband and now he’s trying to choose my friends?

went to her room and changed into a pair of black jeans and a white color shirt. She called and set a time to meet. She left the house and went to the cinema where she was meeting . When she spotted her friend, she waved and jogged towards her.  “Hey! You are early,” panted, smiling.

“I guess. I was bored so I left right after you called. Are you alright?” asked, looking at curiously.

“I’m fine!”

“Hmm... Hubby made you angry again?” joked. pinched her on the shoulder. “Hey! It was a joke,” whined.

“Haven’t I told you before that your comments are not funny?” glared at , but smiled when she saw her friend pout.

hugged ’s arm and leaned her head on her friends shoulder, grinning mischievously. “You know, I think that deep down you are in love with that hubby of yours. You’re just in denial,” she said cheerfully, and let go of to avoid being hit.

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

Atobe entered the cafe in Shibuya and walked towards a table at the very back of the room. He sat on a chair and looked at the person sitting in front of him.

“Couldn’t you sit somewhere more secluded?” Atobe said with a tinge of sarcasm in his voice.

“I didn’t think you would mind,” said the other man calmly.

“Kippei, I am not in the mood for jokes,” Atobe said seriously and leaned back into the chair.

“I wasn’t joking. You sounded urgent on the phone. Is everything alright?” Tachibana Kippei answered dryly flipping through the menu in his hands.

Tachibana Kippei had been Atobe’s best friend since high school,, and he would confide in him when he was in trouble or needed advice. They became close friends after the Nationals in their senior year of junior high. “The usual. My wife. She is my problem,” he sighed, answering Tachibana’s question and rubbed a hand through his hair.

The waiter that Tachibana had waved too came and took their order. “I see. She is still cold towards you?” he asked and leaned back in his chair, watching his friend carefully.

“Cold?” Atobe asked raising his eyebrow. “She is not only cold, but rude and obnoxious too,” he muttered.

The waiter brought their coffee. Tachibana smiled and sipped from his cup. “I think you two are very much alike.”

“I guess,” Atobe said softly and sipped his coffee. “But I can’t figure out what she is thinking. When we are out with friends or on social events and parties, she behaves perfectly, like she really loves me,” Atobe muttered, drinking his coffee slowly.

, “So it’s just when you two are alone,” he said thoughtfully.

Atobe nodded and rubbed his jaw, frustrated. “Let’s leave problems aside for a while. How are you doing?” he asked his friend, smiling lightly.

“We are doing alright. Kyouko is crazier then ever with the pregnancy.” Tachibana laughed.

“That’s great. I am happy for you,” Atobe responded with a sad expression.

“You don’t sound very convincing.”

Atobe sighed deeply. “It’s ironic. You telling me about your wife being pregnant and here I am - not even allowed to touch my wife let alone be intimate with her.” He laughed bitterly.

“Either you are trying to hard or you are not,” Tachibana reasoned placing his cup on the table. “Why don’t you try to confuse her?”

Atobe lifted his head and looked at Tachibana. “What do you mean?” he asked, curiously.

“You should ignore her and then romance her. Throw her off balance. Don’t argue with her. If she pushes you away, just try again. The next time ignore her. She is a woman, she will want to feel wanted. Trust me. It always works,” Tachibana concluded with a mischievous smile.

Atobe smiled at the advice Tachibana gave him. He had thought of that approach already,, and having it confirmed only made his will stronger. He nodded, amused, and finished his coffee.

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

and were in the movie theater watching My Mother’s New Boyfriend. ’s phone vibrated and she pulled it out of her pocket. Seeing the caller ID, she smiled and answered.

“Hey stranger,” she whispered so as not to disturb the others next to her.

“Why are you whispering?” the man on the other end asked meekly.

“I’m in the cinema with . What’s up?” she giggled as softly as possible.

“Which theater?”

“Why? Planning on coming to meet us?” said, walking out of the theater to talk more freely.

“It crossed my mind.”

“We’re going to meet for lunch tomorrow, remember?” she asked, sitting on a chair outside in the hall and crossing her legs.

“I remember. I just wanted to see you today too. Meet me for dinner tonight.”

“Hikaru, you know I can’t. Why do you keep asking me out?” complained teasingly.

“I haven’t seen you in a while. I miss you,” he chuckled. “Tell your one and only that you will have dinner with a friend,” he insisted.

rolled her eyes at his comment. ‘My one and only’, - what a joke. “No. Tomorrow I will spend a lot of time with you,” she answered firmly.

“Fine. Whatever. Where should we meet?” he asked, sounding irritated at her rejection.

“Hikaru, don’t be like that. I am not as free as I use to be. Meet at the lake restaurant in Yokohama, ok?” she said as she got up and walked to the door of the movie theater.

“Yokohama? Why not in our old hometown, ?” Hikaru raised his voice in anger. “Are you embarrassed to be seen with me?”

“Hikaru.” shook her head. “Would you like to cook for me instead?” she said softly.

“Better. Come around noon. See you tomorrow.” He hung up.

closed her phone and sighed. He’s getting more difficult to handle by the day, she thought wryly and returned to the theater. Damn, this movie is boring.

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

A few hours later

entered the mansion and went straight to the bedroom to change and have a shower. She had been out all day and didn’t want to have an argument with Atobe over the time she spent out of the house. I am still angry with him, she thought as she got undressed and entered the shower.

She had a warm shower and then made herself presentable for the obligatory dinner with her husband later. She was reading her book in bed when a knock on the door distracted her.

“Come in.”

“Atobe-sama, dinner is ready.” The maid bowed politely.

closed her book and got of the bed,. She passed her but stopped when she heard what the maid said to her.

turned and looked at her, wide-eyed. “You undressed me last night?”

The maid lowered her head. “Yes, Atobe-sama. I took a clean set of pajamas from your husband’s closet because I couldn’t find the ones you were using. I am very sorry.” She bowed again in respect.

“It’s alright. No harm done,” said, smiling gently to the new girl, for she knew that she was still getting accustomed to the place. So he didn’t change me, why didn’t he say so?

walked in the dining room and found cutlery and food laid out for only one person. Why is there only one set? She turned to the maid that entered behind her, “Why is there only one set on the table?”

“Master Keigo ate earlier when you were out,” she said and bowed.

What? Who the hell does he think he is?

stormed out of the living room and went to his study. She opened the door and entered. She spotted him sitting at his desk in front of his laptop.

“Why am I eating alone?” she demanded, arms crossed.

“Because you were late and I was hungry. Go eat, I am working,” he said indifferently, typing on his laptop.

“I promised I would have breakfast, lunch and dinner with you like a wife should,” she hissed.

Atobe looked at . “A wife would make love to her husband too, but I don’t see that happing.” He moved his gaze back to the screen and continued typing.

was flabbergasted. She just stood there, staring at him. Then she turned and left, slamming the door on her way out.

Atobe smirked.  I guess it’s working.

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

lay on the couch, watching television. A light blanket covered her from the waist down. She flipped the channels looking for something interesting to watch, but she couldn’t find anything – it was all just talk shows or boring soap operas.

She got up from the couch and folded the blanket. She placed it on a small stool and walked to her bedroom. I guess I’ll just go to sleep.

She opened the door to the bedroom and saw that Atobe was already there sleeping. She sighed and closed the door behind her. She tiptoed to the side of her bed and buried herself under the sheets.

“Good night,” Atobe said softly.

“I thought you were sleeping.” looked behind her but all she saw was his back. She frowned. Why am I not happy with this scene?

“I just got to bed too,” Atobe sighed.

“Atobe, can I ask you a question?” asked with her back facing his.

“Sure.” Why won’t she call me by my name? Stubborn woman.

“Why didn’t you tell me that the maid undressed me yesterday?” asked calmly.

“I guess I wanted to annoy you. It’s the only way you will talk to me – or yell at me,” he said bitterly.

bit her lip. “Everything revolves around sex for you. I don’t like that,” she muttered, clutching her pillow with her hand.

“Oh! When did that happen? A week ago when I wanted to kiss my wife or hold her in my arms?” he inquired, closing his eyes.

“A couple of hours ago you said that a wife is for sex too,” she responded slightly annoyed.

“Hmm… If I remember correct I said that a wife should do other things too. I didn’t say sex,” he said quietly.

“You implied it.”

“No, I didn’t. A wife would spend time with her husband, . She would be taking him out shopping with her. She would go out with him. She would include him in her plans, they would do things together, but the most important would be… she would talk to him and not ignore him and then yell at him as if he is some kind of criminal,” he said in one breath. “Be my wife, , don’t just pretend to be,” he continued softly. “It hurts me as a man because I…” He sat up and ran his hand through his hair not wanting to finish his sentence.

Damn it, why is he so sincere with me all of a sudden? What should I do? I don’t like him.

“You have never given me the chance to prove myself to you, ,” he said, getting up. “I think we should sleep in different rooms from now on.” He left the room.

sat up looking at the door. What should I do? She lay on her back looking at the ceiling,.

‘I think maybe we should sleep in different rooms.’ She mulled over his words, confused,. This marriage isn’t working out like I planned. I should be happy just to avoid him,. She hit her fists on the mattress, irritated. Then why the hell am I feeling like I have done something wrong?

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

5 days later

“Uwahh! I am so bored,” said, stretching her arms above her head. The book she had been reading lay open on her lap. She picked up her cup and drank her hot chocolate. It was already the end of September and the weather was getting colder by the week.

Why did he have to go on that trip? She sighed. At least there’d be something to do if I was arguing with him, - he hasn’t even called me.

She closed the book and leaned her head on the back of the couch,. Suddenly she moved her hand towards her collarbone and caressed a small red spot. Umm, maybe I should call him.

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

(’s flashback)

“Hey, handsome,” said cheerfully as Zaizen Hikaru opened the door for her. 

Zaizen narrowed his eyes, eyeing her. Without giving her any warning, he pushed his arms out towards her and wrapped them around her slender waist. He lifted one hand up and caressed her cheek, moving his lips onto hers.

didn’t move or respond to his kiss as he kissed her. After a few seconds, he moved away and grinned at her. “Is this what you do to your husband as well?” he asked, smirking. He moved his fingers through her hair and rubbed the back of her neck tenderly.

pushed him away, walking into his apartment. “I told you that I will not allow you to kiss me anymore, I am a married woman.”

Zaizen grinned, pulling out a cigarette and lit it. He exhaled, walking after her and leaned against the counter as put the grocery bags on the table. “Then what is a married woman doing in a single man’s apartment?”

“Making lunch,” she said bluntly, trying to decide what to cook for him.

Zaizen leaned his face nearer to hers, with the cigarette in his. “Let me kiss you.”

“No.”

He grinned, putting his cigarette out in a nearby ashtray. He moved around the table and stood behind her as she unpacked the groceries from the bags. “You used to like it when I kissed you,” he murmured in her ear as he placed both hands on her hips.

“There you go, sweetie. You used past tense - ‘used to’,” she said, ignoring him as he moved his hands up and down her waist.

 “Come on…” he said, kissing her neck. “You used to like this as well,” he murmured, moving his lips and licking her behind the ear.

wanted to move away, but he had her firmly between his arms as he busied himself tasting her. He kissed all the places he could reach and then turned her around. Cupping her face, he leaned forward to kiss her, but then stopped just a whisper away from her lips. “I have a better idea,” he grinned, putting his hands on her shoulders and moving his lips to her collarbone.

“What are you…” began, but hissed in pain when he dug his teeth in. She hit him hard as he sucked firmly on her delicate skin. By now, he had lifted her, making her wrap her legs around him and continued working on that area until he was satisfied with his love bite.

“There we go,” he smirked, still holding her tightly. “Shall we continue our love making?” he asked, walking to the sofa.

 “I hate you,” she whispered as he placed her gently onto the sofa.

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

sighed deeply. Hikaru, you are an idiot, she thought wryly, reaching for her phone. She dialed a number and waited for the person she called to answer. He is not answering,. She looked at the phone and before she could hang up, she heard his deep voice answering.

“This is unexpected,” the man on the other line said.

“Hi. I was wondering how you are. You haven’t called in three days,” said.

“I didn’t think you would care.” There was a tone of finality in his voice.

“I don’t. However, we are married so as a rule, you should call,” said dryly.

“If you don’t care then why did you bother calling me?” Atobe said, sounding irritated.

“I am doing my duty as your wife,” she responded bluntly. looked at her nails and wondered she needed to go for a manicure or not.

 “If you don’t feel like calling me, then don’t call me. Damn it , calling your husband shouldn’t be a ‘duty’!” he.

“Have a good night, Atobe,” said and hung up before he could say anything else.

“Why can’t I have one decent conversation with that man?” she sighed, defeated. “Argh!” she shouted, placing her hands on her head and rubbing her hair infuriated.

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

(’s flashback)

“, you are being an annoyance to your husband with your attitude,” told his daughter seriously.

“Father, why him? From all the men in Japan why him?” asked, eyeing him carefully. “He doesn’t want to be in this marriage any more than I do,” she complained heatedly.

“Let me tell you something that might change your opinion about the man you are married to,” he answered sternly. “Atobe Taysuke and I were childhood friends. He came to me one day and asked if I could help with marriage prospects for his son. Atobe Keigo was so fed up with the women around him that he had asked his parents to set him up because he just couldn’t find someone decent anymore. He trusted their judgment very well, so his father immediately came to me. He knew I had a daughter and he asked me if I would like to join our families with a marriage between our children. I agreed to the suggestion, but he told me that it will be up to the children to decide and not us.”

He sipped wine and continued, “He also told me that his son would have the final word. When we met for that dinner the young Atobe liked you and told his father that he would marry you. So, my darling daughter, your husband wants to be married to you,” he said, looking his daughter straight in the eye.

glared at her father. “If he was given a choice, why wasn’t I? You forced me into this,” she said in a hurt tone.

He cupped her chin lovingly. “We had our reasons, angel,” he murmured softly, looking at her. “You need to start getting along with him. You are rude to him, and I don’t think we raised you that way, did we?” he asked her.  But before she could answer, he concluded, “Maybe it’s because you are still in the company of that man.”

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

sighed once again. Maybe Father is right, I’ve never given him the chance to prove himself, she thought, picking up her phone again. Hmm, ok , let’s give it a shot.

She dialed Atobe’s number again and waited for him to answer.

frowned when she got his voice mail. I guess he is mad. She decided to try again.

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

Atobe looked at his phone again when it disturbed his thoughts by ringing loudly in the silent room. He just answered it without looking at the caller ID. “Atobe,” he said coldly.

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

froze and at the same time felt bothered because he had managed to make her feel guilty. What do I say now? She shifted uncomfortably without knowing what to say.

“Listen, if you have nothing good to say to me then don’t. I’ve had a long day at work, so don’t call me aga-”

“I’m sorry,” whispered, clutching the phone tightly and throwing away whatever pride she had for the moment.

“What?” He sounded taken aback.

“I am sorry,” repeated, raising her voice a bit because she was not sure that he heard her the first time. “I didn’t mean to be rude to you.”

Silence.

Why isn’t he saying something? “Keigo?” she asked softly.

“What did you call me?” Atobe said, his voice barely a whisper.

“I called you Keigo. Why do you sound shocked?” she asked, perplexed. What the hell is wrong with this man? Can’t I talk to him just once without feeling this much stress?

“It’s the first time since our marriage that you’ve called me by my name.”

“Oh...” She got up from the couch and walked to the glass screen, her eyes glancing towards the full moon. “I… I don’t know what to say,” she admitted, her eyes still at the moon. This moon looks dark and empty… Like how it feels the same when you’re not in the house.

“That’s a first,” he said, pleased.

“I guess. When are you coming home?” she asked him, hugging herself because she was feeling cold.

“Tomorrow.” He laid his back on the bed. “Why?”

It’s because I don’t want to be in this house alone anymore. At least when you were here, it felt alive. “I was just wondering if you would like to have dinner with me when you’re back,” she said as she walked back to the couch.

There was another stunned silence.

“Are you still there?” she demanded, hugging her knees. Can’t I do anything right in this relationship?

“You could say that,” he answered truthfully. “Regardless, ignore my shock. I would love to have dinner with you.”

“Okay, then I will see you tomorrow. Good night,” said with a small smile.

“Thank you. Have a good night’s sleep, .”  

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

Next evening

“I will be ready in a few minutes,” said loudly as she walked out of the bathroom with a towel around her head. “I just need to blow dry my hair.”

Atobe just looked at her and nodded. He was sitting on the bedroom sofa, reading his newspaper. ’s phone rang. She turned off the blow dryer and picked up her phone, looking at the caller ID. What does he want at this hour? She left the phone on the dresser, still ringing.

Atobe lifted his gaze from the newspaper and looked at her. “Aren’t you going to answer that?” he demanded.

“No,” answered flatly. The phone stopped ringing and started again a few seconds later. She sighed but ignored the phone once again.

“If you are not going to answer it, I will,” Atobe muttered, annoyed.

rolled her eyes and answered the call. “What do you want, Hikaru?” she said.

“Hmm, is your husband around?”

“I have no time for games. What do you want?” she hissed, putting some makeup on.

“Go out with me tomorrow,” Zaizen said playfully over the phone. 

She rolled her eyes once again. “Fine. What time?”

“Come to my house around 1 pm. I’ll cook,” he chuckled.

“I don’t think so. Are you planning on poisoning me?” she teased. “Hikaru, I will see you tomorrow. Bye.” She hung up and moved her shirt a bit to put some powder over the faded red spot on her collarbone.

Atobe had put away they newspaper and was admiring while she talked on the phone and put on her makeup. It’s amazing how she can do both at the same time.

When she pulled at her shirt, the red spot showed clearly in the mirror’s reflection.

“What is that spot on your neck?” Atobe asked as he got up from the chair and approached .

“It’s just an insect bite,” said hurriedly, covering herself. She looked away and walked past him, but he slammed his hand onto the wall and stopped her from passing. She looked up and realized that his eyes were dangerously cold. They were so cold that she shivered involuntarily.

“I will allow it if you won’t let me touch you, but I will not allow for another man to touch my wife,” he said in a very calm voice. “Show me.”

clutched her shirt and bit her lip. “It’s nothing.” She turned her head, not wanting to look at him. She felt guilt building up inside her for something that was not her fault.

“Look at me when you say it’s nothing!” He cupped her chin firmly and turned her face so she could face him.

winced at the sudden pain she felt from his aggressive action. She looked at him straight in the eyes but there was no words coming out of her mouth. She did want to tell him that it wasn’t intentional and that her friend had been way out of line, but she couldn’t voice her thoughts. She had never seen such a hurt expression on his face before, not even when she belittled him with her harsh words. She felt like crying but no tears came.

Atobe grabbed her wrists and pushed her against the wall. He pulled her shirt open and frowned.

“You’re hurting me,” she whispered, struggling to get away from his grasp, but he wouldn’t budge.

“Are you taking advantage of all the times I’m away?” he demanded, unbuttoning the rest of her shirt and removing it.

“Look who’s talking!” shouted back, trying to push his hand away. “You’ve been on a so-called business trip every weekend for the last four weeks.”

Atobe put one arm around her waist, pulling her closer and placed a hand firmly behind her head. “Are you accusing me of infidelity?”

’s guilt turned into fury. “Let go of me!” she hissed, hitting his chest with her free hand. You’ve been away every damn weekend and you stopped being nice to me! Of course I’m going to think that you’re cheating on me.

“Don’t throw this at me when it’s clear that you’re the one seeing someone else! I’ll make you think twice about allowing someone else to kiss you,” he said, bringing her closer to him.

gasped at the proximity of their bodies. She glared at Atobe dangerously but he simply leaned in to capture her lips. He kissed her hard as she stood frozen to the spot. He licked her lip, seeking for entrance but when she refused, he bit her lower lip and she gasped at the sudden rush of pain she felt. Atobe pushed his tongue inside her hot cavern, claiming every inch of it for his own.

Something in snapped and she encircled her arms around his neck, pulling him even closer.

She tangled her fingers in his hair and responded to his kiss with the same passion as his. ’s leg lifted slowly around Atobe’s leg provoking him further.

They were running out of air but neither wanted to pull away from the passionate embrace they were sharing, both battling to dominate. Atobe was the first to pull away, needing to breathe desperately.

He cupped her face tenderly, his lips inches away from hers. This is crazy, I should be punishing her, but I don't want to stop kissing her, he thought, caressing her face with one hand and moving his thumb against her lower lip.

turned but he caught her chin and brought her lips to his again. Using his other hand, he lifted her up more and made her tighten her arms around his neck.

They kissed passionately, but gently. Atobe moved his hand across her slender leg and moved closer to him – so close they were almost one body.

It was only when a gentle knock on the door sounded that they both stopped. Atobe looked at who was glaring at him none too happily, but he simply shrugged. He placed her down and looked away.

touched her lips, feeling angry. What were you thinking, ?! “I hate you,” she whispered.

“Yeah, but at least I know for a fact that we’re sexually compatible now,” he said, walking out the door.

grabbed one of her shoes and threw it at the door. “Damn you!” she yelled and went to the bathroom to wash her face.  She looked in the mirror and at the spot on her collarbone. Oh, you are so dead, Hikaru, she thought, infuriated.

She walked back into the bedroom and took her dress off. She put on a pair of jeans, a shirt and a pair of low heels. She called and they planned to meet at the mall in twenty minutes.

She met Atobe in the doorway he was on his way out.

“Where are you going?” he asked.

“None of your business,” she replied and walked to her car.

Atobe just looked at her and pulled his phone out. He dialed a number and set a plan to pick up someone. He kept his gaze on ’s car as she drove out.

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

At the mall, in a restaurant

“Let me get this right,” said pointing her fork at . “Your hubby saw the love bite Hikaru gave you. You fought and then made out…”

“We didn’t make out!” she hissed . “It was… It was…” She trailed off, playing with her food and not knowing what to say or how to explain her feelings.

“It was the beginning of a blooming love. Finally!” concluded, exhaling heavily with a broad smile on her face.

narrowed her eyes at her best friend and wanted to just get up and leave, but she knew how liked to tease her about any situation. In fact ’s ability to cheer her up was the reason she always liked to hang out with her.

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

“I don’t think that it’s nice to spy on your wife,” Tachibana sighed. “We are not in high school anymore.” He looked at Atobe. “What are you doing?”

“I want to get a table close to them so I can hear what they are talking about.”

Tachibana sighed again. What am I doing here with this lunatic?

“Atobe lets just…” he trailed off after hearing a little of the womens’ conversation. He tapped Atobe’s shoulder and Atobe turned to look at him. “Who is Hikaru?” he asked whispering.

Atobe looked at him. “She is a friend of ’s,” he answered and looked over at the table where the two women were.

“Then why did she give a love bite?” Tachibana inquired.

Atobe stopped and turned to look at his friend. No… No… and Hikaru… They are both women… He shook his head and looked at wide-eyed.

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

Much much later

walked into her room and found Atobe sleeping on the lounge chair. She had spent her evening whining and shopping with . She looked at him and let out a sigh. Why am I in such a complicated marriage?

She glared at him as he slept and walked to the bathroom. He was still asleep when she was done. She let out a sigh and walked towards him. “Keigo?” she called, shaking him.

He didn’t respond.

rolled her eyes and shook him again. “Oy! Wake up!”

He opened his eyes and ran a hand through his hair. He sat up. “God… why does it have to be you when I wake up?” he muttered, scratching his jaw lightly.

crossed her arms. “Go to bed, it’s late and you look tired.”

“I am tired,” he said, stretching his arms above his head.

let out a sigh. “If you sleep here, you will hurt your back.”

He didn’t say anything.

“At least change into your night clothes.”

 “I don’t have the energy, ,” he said, leaning against the sofa. “Could you just bring me my shirt please?”

“Since when do you wear a shirt to bed?”

“Since we started sleeping on separate beds,” he mumbled.

shook her head and turned around. “Suit yourself,” she muttered.

“Will you at least help me to bed?”

stopped and frowned. He did look exhausted so she turned around and extended her hand towards him. “Move,” she said in a low tone.

He took her hand and she helped him stand up. Without saying anything, he just put his arm around her shoulder and held his waist. Heavy… she thought, walking towards the bed. This man is weird! He was clearly furious earlier, and now… he looks fine.

She helped him sit on the bed and he just collapsed back on it. “What the hell did you do today to be this tired?” she demanded, helping him sit up. She simply sat next to him and began unbuttoning his shirt. Its all Kippei’s fault, I’m sure of it

As she reached the last button, he suddenly grabbed her wrist. stopped, looking at him and realized he was smirking. “Wha…” she began, but he flipped her onto the bed. He looked at her seriously, holding her wrists tightly. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” she shouted, half surprised and half angry.

“Do you like women?”

“What?!”

“Do you…” he asked, but kicked him and he was fortunate to have moved just in time before she hit a rather sensitive area.

“Are you drunk?!” she demanded, trying to struggle out of his grasp.

“Stop moving, will you!” he snapped.

They both went quiet and glared at each other. Neither of them said a word or backed out. Finally, Atobe relaxed his hold on her wrist and just lay on top of her. He put his head on her shoulder and closed his eyes. “You’re the only person who can emotionally exhaust me,” he muttered.

I hope he doesn’t intend to sleep on me? thought wryly trying to move but stopped when she felt his lips on her neck leaving baby kiss all the way from her ear to the collarbone. She shivered but didn’t push him away, her hands moved of their own accord and they circled his neck. She closed her eyes and played with the hair at the back of his neck.

Atobe opened his eyes and smiled, feeling ’s hands in his hair. He moved his hands and placed them on her waist, he shifted his body to be more comfortable and to help relax. He trailed a wet line with his tongue from her neck through her jaw-line and then her lower lip seeking entrance to her sweet mouth.

obliged and parted her lips slowly allowing Atobe’s tongue to invade her mouth. Her tongue caressed his and vice versa. Damn, he is a great kisser, she thought as she moved her hands to his back and drew small circles with her fingers.

Atobe was lost in their kissing and angled his head to deepen the kiss but felt ’s body underneath him stiffen. He kissed her for a few more seconds and then pulled away. I love her so much, he thought as he laid his back on the bed and placed one arm over his eyes.

He felt shifting next to him and felt sit up. Before she could get up from the bed properly he pulled her back and held her tightly in his arms. He turned them both on the side and closed his eyes still holding tightly. “I want to sleep with you in my arms tonight,” he whispered.

“What are you talking about?” asked, trying to move but stopped when he placed his leg over hers to make her stop fidgeting. “Fine,” she sighed helplessly and closed her eyes.

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

A week later

was in the living room reading her book when Atobe strolled in gracefully. “I hope you still remember that we are invited to my mother’s charity party on Saturday,” he said as he sat down in the armchair on ’s left.

“I do,” she answered mechanically, not lifting her eyes from the book.

“You could at least look at me when you talk to me,” he grumbled, annoyed.

looked up at him and closed her book with a thud. “We have been coexisting just fine these past few days. Why are you complaining?” she asked, raising her eyebrow. “Aren’t you happy? We sleep together, we eat together and we converse like normal people.” She reasoned and got off the couch.

“I would like us to be a bit more intimate and closer. I don’t feel like I have a wife – it’s more like I have a roommate,” he said and got up from his seat. He moved closer to and lifted his hand to caress her cheek.

shivered at his touch. I am starting to feel weird every time he does that, she thought and moved her head away. “I am sorry but I have to go.” She walked towards the door and opened it. “I will see you for dinner tonight,” she said and left the room.

She leaned on the closed door and sighed. Why am I feeling all fuzzy inside? He only touched my cheek, she thought, irritated at her own weakness. He has been nothing but sweet all this week. I am even longing to be kissed again. She lifted her hands and covered her face, feeling her cheeks heat up.

Suddenly the door opened and felt her body fall backwards. This is going to hurt, she thought and closed her eyes.

The impact never came. She opened her eyes.

“Silly woman,” Atobe whispered holding in his arms. “Why would you lean on a door? Didn’t it cross your mind that it would open?” he asked and placed a light kiss behind her ear.

blushed, feeling his hot breath caress her skin and jumped when his lips touched her. “I didn’t… realize… I leaned… against the door,” she said, breathing heavily as she inhaled the strong scent of his cologne and felt her senses fly all over the place.

He straightened her and pulled away, smiling contently. “I must leave now. I have a meeting to attend with my father,” he said and walked past without looking at her.

touched her chest where she could feel her pounding heartbeat. Why? Why am I feeling this way? She ran to the bathroom to wash her face. She looked at her flushed face in the mirror and remembered the other time she was found in a similarly awkward situation.

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

(’s flashback)

“You normally ask your secretary to get you a gift for your mother,” said, walking around with him at the jewelry store.

“That was before I had a wife,” he said, looking around the exclusive display of jewels. “I’d like to be able to pick something myself for once.”

hugged herself and frowned at his statement. Come to think of it, this was their first time out properly together. She studied him and noticed that he was in casual attire. He was looking curiously at everything and motioned for her to come closer.

rolled her eyes and obliged as she walked to the display. “Which one?” she asked, bored.

He stood behind her closely and pointed at the bracelet he was admiring earlier. One of his hands fell on her waist and his head rested on her shoulder. “What do you think?”

“I think that we’re in public,” she hissed, annoyed, but somehow feeling warm by his closeness.

“You pick something as well,” he said, not moving from his place.

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

shook her head and walked to her room, she opened the closet and decided to get dressed and go out for a walk.

Her phone rang and she picked it up without looking at the caller ID. “Atobe,” she sighed.

“Hmm… The name does not suit you,” a voice said playfully over the phone.

rolled her eyes but smiled. “What do you want Hikaru?” she asked walking out the gate.

“I haven’t seen you in a week,” Zaizen said, sounding unhappy. “Ditch that husband of yours and let’s go out for lunch,” he demanded.

laughed at his tone. “Fine… Fine… Where do you want to meet?” she asked as she entered a taxi. “I need to tell the taxi driver where to drop me.”

“At Shiodome,” he answered firmly.

“Fine. Usual place?”

“Yes. I’ll see you there in thirty minutes,” he said and hung up.

“Why me?” she whispered under her breath and leaned back in her. “Take me to the Shiodome area please. I will show you where to drop me. Thank you.”

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

Zaizen looked at his watch and sighed. He turned around when he heard someone call his name and smiled brightly. “You are late,” he said teasingly.

stopped and bent down, placing her hands on her knees breathing heavily. Damn, I should start exercising again, she thought still trying to regulate her breathing. “I… There was… a lot… of traffic!” she said and straightened,  placing her hands on her waist.

Zaizen laughed when he saw ’s red face and messy hair. “You look like you’ve been in a cat fight!”

“Hey!” hit his shoulder playfully. She tried to fix her hair and Zaizen helped her

“So where is your idiot husband?” Zaizen asked as they sat at their usual table in a favorite restaurant of theirs.

took off her jacket and sat on the couch. “He is not an idiot. He had a meeting with his father,” she said as she picked up the menu.

“That’s new!” Zaizen said and pulled the menu away from . “You just defended him.” He looked at her, amused.

“Give me the menu,” she demanded, extending her hand. “Hikaru!” she exclaimed, when she saw him give it to a passing waiter. “Why don’t you grow up?” she said.

Zaizen moved from his side of the couch to be closer to . “, you always order pasta and salad. Why do you want to play with the menu?” he said in low voice close to her ear.

pushed him away. “Hikaru, how many times do I have to tell you that I am married?” she said, annoyed. She ignored his mischievous smile and waved to a waiter to come and take their order.

After the waiter left, Zaizen approached again and gave her  a quick kiss on the neck. pulled back and glared daggers at him, but before she could say anything she was interrupted.

“?” asked a tall man who was looking at her with surprise.

“What?” snapped angrily. “OH!” her eyes widened. “Ki… Kippei?”

Tachibana Kippei smiled and bowed lightly. “I never expected to see you around these parts, ,” he said smiling, and sat down opposite and Zaizen. “You don’t mind if I join you, do you?”  His smile brightened.

was at a loss for words. She never expected to see anyone she knew in that parts of Tokyo. And of all people, it had to be Tachibana Kippei.

Zaizen was displeased by the turn of events and looked towards Tachibana with a murderous glare. “Actually, we do mind,” he said with annoyance. “Can’t you see that we are having lunch?”

Tachibana looked from to Zaizen and his smile faded. “All I see here is a married woman being rather too close to another man,” he answered quietly, eyeing Zaizen carefully.

decided that the best thing at that moment was to be honest. “This is my best friend, Zaizen Hikaru.  We just came for lunch to catch up,” she said, regaining some of her lost poise.

Zaizen excused himself at that moment and left the two of them talk.

Tachibana looked at her with a frown on his face. “Does your husband know about these outings?” he asked, “Is he the Hikaru you see every now and then?”

“Yes, I have been friends with Hikaru since junior high,” she said. “Why do you ask?”

Tachibana looked at with great interest. “Your husband thinks Hikaru is a woman,” he said finally.

“What?” asked and started laughing out loud. She covered her mouth and tried to stop laughing. “He what?”

Tachibana smiled. “Why do you think he doesn’t mind you hanging out with Hikaru?” he asked.

stopped laughing and looked at him, puzzled. Somehow she knew the answer she was about to receive but had to ask anyway. “What do you mean?” she.

“Atobe would be very jealous if he knew you were spending so much time with a man,” Tachibana said, looking at seriously.

“I don’t care. I was forced to marry him and I don’t like it.” She crossed her arms.

“You don’t like Atobe as a person or you don’t like the fact that you didn’t choose him yourself?” he asked 

“Look,” she said uncrossing her arms and placed them on the table. “I don’t need to tell you what I like and don’t like in my marriage.”

“You are right,” Tachibana responded calmly. “But it is my right to question you when you are cheating on my best friend.” His phone rang at that moment and he answered it.

started feeling irritated at the turn of events. All I wanted was a quiet afternoon.

Zaizen returned to the table then. “Is everything all right?” he whispered in ’s ears.

looked at him with a serious look on her face. “If you dare touch me in his presence, I will kill you!” she hissed under her breath, eyeing him dangerously.

Zaizen chuckled and backed off. When their food came, they ate and made harmless small talk until excused herself to go to the bathroom.

Zaizen ignored Tachibana and continued eating. Tachibana, on the other hand, placed his fork and knife on the table and leaned back.

“You know she is married,” he began.

“What and I do together is none of your business,” Zaizen responded bluntly.

“It’s true that it’s none of my business. But she’s my best friend’s wife, and my best friend is my concern.” He looked at Zaizen seriously, tapping his finger on the table.

Before Zaizen could answer, returned. “I’m sorry, I met someone and we started… mmph…!” froze in her place as she felt Zaizen’s lips on hers.

Without thinking, she bit down on his lip.

He swore, holding his lip.

“Damn you, Hikaru,” said, feeling tears in her eyes. “You always manage to act like an idiot every time we’re together,” she said, standing up. She picked up her purse and walked away.

Tachibana didn’t say anything. He stood up and followed , not glancing at Zaizen on his way out. He caught her as she entered a taxi. “Wait,” he said, grabbing her arm. “I’ll drop you off.”

didn’t say anything, nor did she struggle.

He held her hand and led her all the way to his car. He opened the passenger door for her, but she shook her head. Holding her head, let out a sigh. “Please don’t think that I’m cheating on Keigo.”

Tachibana looked taken aback. “, I didn’t…”

“I may despise him, but I don’t cheat!” she snapped angrily.

“I know you don’t cheat,” he said softly, placing his hand on her shoulder.

moved her hair off her face and sighed. “You’re probably wondering why I hang out with him.” 

“You have your reasons,” he said, helping her into the car.

She explained the whole situation while Tachibana drove her home. She didn’t want him to believe that she was hurting his friend in any way. When they arrived at the mansion, invited him in for a drink since she knew Atobe would be home by now, but Tachibana declined politely.

found Atobe in their bedroom, fast asleep and hugging her pillow. She smiled – and then wondered why she was smiling.

She kept her gaze fixed on his sleeping form until a knock on the door startled her.

She tiptoed to the door and opened it slightly. “What is it?” she asked the maid standing outside.

“Umm… Master Keigo asked me to wake him up at this time,” the maid replied.

looked at Atobe and then back at the maid. “It’s alright. I’ll wake him up.” She closed the door. I will let him sleep until I am finished with my shower, she thought and walked to the closet to pick a clean pair of pajamas

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

Atobe groaned inwardly at the sound of a phone ringing. “?” he called, but he didn’t get a response from her. “Damn it ! That’s your phone,” he muttered, sitting up. I am officially in a foul mood. “Will someone shut the damn phone?” he snapped at the air. He stood up grouchily and searched for the ringing phone. He didn’t bother checking the caller I.D. and answered the call. “Hel…”

“I do not appreciate being ditched like that!”

Atobe blinked in surprise.

“What did he tell you? What did that stupid Tachibana guy tell you?” the other voice shouted. “And how dare you bite me when I tried to kiss you - you’ve never done it before!”

Atobe narrowed his eyes and looked at the caller I.D. Hikaru? Atobe froze in his place and felt the blood in his veins boiling bit by bit. Almost without thinking, he ended the call.

A few minutes later, walked out of the bathroom, wearing a robe. “Oh, I was going to wake you up just now,” she said, going to dry her hair.

Atobe didn’t say anything. He was sitting on the edge of the bed, his eyes fixed on a spot on the floor.

turned to look at Atobe. I wonder what’s wrong with him. “Is everything okay?” she asked and turned around again to continue drying her hair.

Atobe didn’t respond again. He didn’t even move. looked at him once more. What the hell is wrong with him? She got up from her dresser and walked to him. “Keigo?” she tapped his shoulder. “Keigo, are you alright?”

Atobe moved his eyes from the floor to . He got up and handed her the phone he was holding. He walked to the bathroom and closed the door behind him.

was surprised by his attitude and looked at her phone. “What -” She jerked her head up at the sound of glass breaking.

She ran to the bathroom and opened the door. he looked at the broken mirror and then looked at Atobe, who was  grasping the sink with his head lowered.

“What the hell is going on?” she snapped angrily. “Are you going crazy?”

“Shut up!”

was stunned; she never expected that kind of reaction from him. “WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU?” she yelled, glaring at him dangerously.

“I said SHUT UP!” Atobe yelled back. He straightened himself and ran a hand through his hair. “How long have you been seeing that man?” he demanded in a low voice.

“That man?” asked puzzled.

“Do NOT play dumb with me, .” He looked at her for the first time and took a step back when she saw the hurt look he gave her. “Hikaru. How long, ?” he demanded, his anger rising. “He was the one that gave you that mark, wasn’t he?” he asked, walking towards her.

took a step back for every one step that he advanced. “I thought you knew that he was a man,” she said as firmly as she could. Something about Atobe at that moment scared her. “Why are you so angry? I wasn’t cheating on you, if that’s what you’re worried about,” she said in defense.

“Is that right?” he asked with a mocking smile on his lips. “Then why did you bite his lip today? You never did that before according to him.” Atobe halted a few centimeters away from .

What? Hikaru told him that? Her mind was ablaze with all sorts of thoughts. That’s impossible. “You’re lying,” she spat back him. “You are a liar. Hikaru would have never told you anything like that.”

“I never said he told me. He was telling you over the phone.”

“You answered a call meant for me?” she shouted. “How dare you …”

Atobe hit his fists on the wall where was standing. His fists landed only inches away from her head. “Damn it, ! Why?” he asked with a hurt expression on his face. “Why? All I ever did is love you and respect you,” he said, angrily gritting his teeth.

s was scared she realized that he would never hit her. She felt her heartbeat pounding and a surge of feelings that she thought she would never feel shot through her. She panicked and pushed him away. “Stay away from me,” she shouted, walking out of the bathroom.

Atobe followed her. stopped in the middle of the room and placed one of her hands on her chest to feel the raging beat of her heart. “You say you love me? Yet you don’t believe me when I say I never cheated. Is that what you call love, Atobe? Is that respect? When there is no trust, there is nothing to base a relationship on!” she said while tears spilled slowly from her eyes.

Atobe was looking at her intensely but didn’t say or do anything.

“Do you know why I despise you, Atobe?” she asked, still not turning around to face him. “Because everything evolves around YOU in your life!” she turned and looked at him, wiping her tears away. “You had to choose everything about our wedding, you brag about how you chose me to be your wife, how you have the right to be upset, and you complain about your needs. It’s always you, you, you!” she said in one breath.

“You don’t care about my feelings - you never asked! You just assumed I would do anything you want. Even when you touch me it’s for yourself, you never think that making love to each other affects us both.” She walked towards him. “Even this situation with Hikaru is about you. Do you think I would have married you if I didn’t like you at least a little? You are a charming man when people first get to know you, but underneath that you are just another rich spoiled brat,” she continued in a low voice.

couldn’t stop herself. Her heart was beating so fast she thought it would jump out of her mouth. She stopped right in front of Atobe and looked him in the eyes. “I never got the chance to choose you for my husband - you made all the decisions! You didn’t care about my feelings, is that what you call love Keigo?”

“…” Atobe began but grasped his shirt and pulled him closer to her.

“Don’t lecture me about something you don’t know…” she said frustrated.

“ -” Atobe was cut off once again by ’s lips on his. He was stunned by her action but regained his composure and put his arms around ’s waist. It started as light kisses until opened her mouth for him and invited him in.

Atobe invaded her mouth as she was invading his senses. He wanted nothing but to show her who owned her, but then stopped. Don’t lecture me about something you don’t know. Is she trying to tell me that I never showed her anything? Her words haunted him. If she wants me to show her then I will, he thought, moving his hands and cupping her face. Instead of battling with her tongue, he softened the kiss and slowed the pace, allowing her to adjust to the feeling.

shivered and moved her hands through his hair as he trailed his lips down her neck and nestled on her neck.

I’m going to make her remember every little thing I do to her and show her that it is about her tonight and not me… Atobe placed little kisses all over her neck until her head almost fell back. He steadied her head with his hand and kissed her lips again.

--------------- 

woke up to the quiet room and the deep breathing next to her. She sat up a bit and studied the figure next to her. His back was the only thing facing her as she tucked the blanket around her. She tried to move, but was too relaxed to do so and just let her weight pull her back on the bed.

"You can't sleep?"

let out a sigh. "I'm hungry," she muttered. "I don't even know what time it is."

Atobe rose and picked up his wristwatch. "It's 10 PM,” he muttered ruffling his hair.

sat up too. "We were here since yesterday?" she asked, looking at him with a confused expression.

“Seems like it," he said, lying down again. "And looks like we’ll be here until tomorrow…" he sighed tiredly. He was in no mood to do anything else but laze in bed. I wonder why no one even bothered to check up on us, he thought wryly, picking up a pillow and hugging it.

felt utterly confused about the whole situation. I’m not sure what this means now. She frowned and crossed her arms I slept with my husband and we didn’t exactly do it just once. She sneaked a glance to her side and tried to put her emotions into place.

“I’m hungry too,” he said out of the blue, opening his eyes and sitting up. “I’m going to ask the maids to get us something.” He reached for the phone, but stopped him.

 “I’ll get us something to nibble on from the pantry downstairs.”

“Forget it.” He closed his eyes. “I’m going to go back to sleep.”

frowned at his behavior. “I’m hungry too,” she said, annoyed, and got up, putting on a robe

He opened his eyes with a sigh and studied her actions. "What now, ?"

She turned to look at him. “I don’t know…” She exhaled, feeling all her energy draining away.

Atobe sat up again and folded his knees, placing his elbows on them. The bed sheet pooled around his waist.

She let out a sigh.

He lifted his gaze and looked at her blushing face. “You're very cute.”

rolled her eyes. “Go to bed. I’m still mad at you.”

Atobe laughed and moved closer to her. He hugged her and pulled her in his arms. “Let’s talk. Let’s make a fresh start,” he whispered in her ear. “I do love you, ,” he admitted sincerely.

smiled hearing his confession. She felt her cheeks redden and turned her face so Atobe couldn’t see her blush again.

“Keigo…” She trailed off as she lay in his arms. “I… I can’t say it yet.” She shifted in his arms and cupped both his cheeks with her warm hands. “But I would like us to make a new start.”

Atobe pressed his lips on the palm of ’s hand, then kissed her forehead tenderly and brushed his lips over the tip of her nose. “I will try to be on my best behavior.” He pulled her closer to him and whispered, “Let’s sleep.”

kissed his cheek softly and closed her eyes, hugging him possessively. They drifted off to sleep.

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

11 months later

Atobe was in bed sleeping soundly when a scream made him jerk awake. His left hand reached for the bedside lamp switch while trying to rub his face with his other hand. He looked at the woman sleeping quietly beside him.

“, wake up,” he said. “!” he exclaimed and walked to her side where the cradle was.

Things were never the same after that fateful night. had given birth to a beautiful healthy girl. She had talked to Zaizen after the disastrous dinner with him and Tachibana and pleaded with him to stop harassing her. Zaizen had agreed to back off since he could see that she had finally fallen in love with her husband.

Zaizen and had started dating after announced that she was pregnant. She tried hard to change her attitude around Atobe and he tried to make sure that he included in everything.

Their life wasn’t an easy ride even after every misunderstanding was solved because had become more aggressive and bossy during her pregnancy. Atobe had been very patient during that time and was overjoyed when his little daughter was born.

He leaned over the cradle and looked at the crying baby. He placed a finger on the baby’s lips and felt the tiny lips sucking on it furiously. “So you’re hungry,” he smiled tenderly.

He pulled his hand away slowly and the baby started crying again. He turned towards ’s sleeping form and shook her lightly. “, wake up. The baby is hungry,” he said, picking the baby up. The baby cooed, sucking on her thumb as Atobe placed her head on his shoulder.

“Mmmm… I like apples…” mumbled in her sleep.

Atobe rolled his eyes. What the hell is she dreaming about?

“, if you don’t wake up I will push you off the bed,” he declared, shaking with his free hand.

jumped up from her sleep and looked around the room, lost. She calmed done and glared at him. “What is wrong with you?” she said but then heard the cries of the baby and immediately took the child from him.

She lifted the baby in her arms. “Shhh. What’s the matter, sweetheart?” she said softly, holding the baby.

“She is hungry.”

sat beside Atobe. “Why didn’t you feed her?” she asked without thinking.

Atobe looked at her, shocked. “I’m sorry, darling. I didn’t grow breasts to feed her,” he said wryly, getting up and going to his side of the bed. “Feed her and come back to bed.” He lay on the bed and covered himself but kept his gaze on feeding the baby. A small smile crept on his lips at the picture in front him.

The moment finished feeding the baby, she held her against her chest and rubbed her back so she would burp. Then she rocked her back to sleep and then climbed into bed facing a sleeping Atobe. She chuckled and placed a kiss on his cheek. “Thank you,” she whispered.

“For what?” he asked.

lifted her hand and brushed a lock of hair off his face. I never thought he was this beautiful, she thought, looking at him intensely. “I thought you were sleeping.” She caressed his cheek gently.

Atobe moved closer to her and hugged her tighter. “I love you,” he said, ignoring her comment and kissed the tip of her nose.

She chuckled and closed her eyes, hugging his waist in return. “I love you too, Keigo,” she whispered.

He opened his eyes, believing he had heard wrongly. “Say it again,” he ordered softly.

“I love you.” 

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

A.C. & DeVeliCious

Edited by elenniel