Propositions

[write_my_dreams]

Title: Propositions
Author: write_my_dreams
Pairing: OC lusting over Hyde, but that's about it
Genre: AU, drama, action
Warning/Disclaimer: Nothing to warn about. Hyde, Megumi, Asagi, and Sakura do not belong to me. I believe everyone else does though.
Rating: PG
Chapter(s): 1/1
Summary: Hyde's job as a delivery boy goes badly when one of his regular clients gets tired of waiting for Hyde to return the little favors he gives him. 
Author's Comment: This is part 2 in my yakuza series. I actually wrote this over the summer but had a hard time with the editing so decided to just put it on hold until I was ready to work on it. Thanks to lieben_kame for reading through the first draft and pointing out what to fix.

Hyde sighed as he parked his scooter in front of the tall, black office building. He really didn’t like coming here. This building made him nervous and uncomfortable and he longed to escape the moment he set foot inside. Coming here didn’t use to be so bad, but everything changed last month…

The redhead took off his helmet and pocketed his keys. It was best to just get it over with. He tucked the helmet under his arm then walked to the entrance. The doorman gave him a nod of recognition, which he returned, then opened the door for Hyde. Deliveries brought him here so often that several employees knew his face by now. The redhead stepped into the building and looked around. Despite making him so uncomfortable, it did have a beautiful interior. The lobby had marble floors and two large elevators. Near the entrance was a row of comfortable chairs where guests could sit while they waited for their appointments. Three vending machines were nearby so no one would go hungry or thirsty. There was also an enormous desk where four beautiful receptionists in matching uniforms worked, greeting people with charming smiles and directing them to the elevators or the waiting area. Security cameras were positioned throughout the lobby and hallways, which always made him a little nervous. He didn’t like having every action recorded.

Hyde headed to the elevator. Two men in black business suits stood guard outside it, something he’d always thought was strange. This was just an office. Why did it have such high security? The inquisitive part of him wanted answers, but the more cautious one knew better than to ask. It was best to leave men with money alone.

“Where are you going?” One man asked, giving the redhead a critical look.

“To Shinamori-san’s office,” Hyde replied. “I have packages to deliver to him.” Shinamori Takeshi was the CEO of this company and frequently called him here for deliveries.

The man nodded and hit the up arrow. Hyde stepped inside and pressed the button for the top floor. It served as Shinamori’s personal space with a private bathroom, his office, and a bedroom for when he stayed the night at the company instead of his apartment. Hyde had only seen the office and didn’t dare set foot in the other rooms. Being alone with powerful men made him uneasy. He didn’t have much time to reflect on that since the doors were opening. Hyde smoothed his hair down and stepped into the hall. The door to Shinamori’s office was closed as usual and a tall, muscular man in a black business suit stood guard outside it. He was always there.

Hyde approached the guard, who took in his long red hair and scuffed shoes with a critical eye. He always viewed the redhead with complete contempt. The dislike was mutual since Hyde hated arrogant men who judged him based on his fragile, feminine appearance. He gave the guard a defiant look, who sneered in response before turning to look on the door.

“The bike messenger is here.”

Hyde bristled, biting down on his lip to hold back a response. Snapping, ‘The bike messenger has a name. Takarai Hyde,’ was tempting, but baiting men who looked like they could beat him to a pulp was never a good idea.

The door opened a few moments later. Shinamori was in his late thirties and, like everyone else, much taller than Hyde. Today he wore a grey pin-striped suit with a black dress shirt and a tie made from crimson silk. The price of the suit could probably pay Hyde’s rent for the next few months. Or more. “Good morning.” The smile he gave Hyde was meant to be charming, but was more predatory than anything. Shinamori wanted to have sex with him, which was the reason he dreaded making deliveries to this building.

 “Good morning, Shinamori-san.” Hyde bowed. “You’ve received two packages and a letter today.” He kept his head down so he wouldn’t have to look at the man as he set his helmet on the carpet and unzipped the bag. He could feel Shinamori’s eyes raking over his body, practically boring through his clothes. Lustful bastard. Hyde took the items out and presented them to Shinamori with another bow.

“Thank you, Hyde.” The businessman tucked the packages and letter under his arm then studied him again. His lust for Hyde was more obvious than usual, especially since the summer heat made his uniform cling to his skin. “Why don’t you come in and have something to drink?”

Always the same offer. Hyde schooled his expression into a regretful one. “I’m sorry, Shinamori-san. I wish I could, but I have other deliveries I need to make.” He smiled apologetically as he brushed his bangs back. “I’ll get in trouble if I’m late.”

“Such a hard worker.” Shinamori laid a friendly hand on Hyde’s shoulder. “At least have a glass of water. It’s hot outside.”

Hyde looked up at the man. He never dared to accept his drinks for fear they’d be drugged and he’d wake up naked in Shinamori’s bed. “I appreciate the offer… I just can’t stay. I’m really sorry.” He bowed his head in apology.

Shinamori frowned. “Very well then. I won’t keep you from your work any longer.” He took his wallet out of his pocket and opened it. Hyde tensed as he held out a ¥10,000 note. They had this little ‘battle’ every time he made a delivery. The first time Shinamori had done this, Hyde had been shocked and stammered that the sum was too high of a tip. Shinamori was insistent though and assured Hyde that he always tipped his delivery boys well. He’d refused to take the money back so the redhead had no choice but to accept it. He could live a little better with the extra yen. Things had gone well for a while, but a few weeks after Hyde’s first delivery Shinamori started to get… pushy. He wanted the redhead to accompany him to dinner or have a drink with him. Hyde always used work as an excuse since he didn’t feel safe with him and kept trying to get Shinamori to keep the money. Due to his repeated refusals, all Hyde could do was accept the money – and the consequences of always taking it.

Hyde kept his unease to himself though and chuckled. “After all the times I’ve protested I thought you would know better, Shinamori-san. It’s not right to tip me so much.”

The businessman looked amused. “And I’ll always tip you this much anyway.” Hyde stiffened as Shinamori brushed a lock of his hair behind his ear. “I’ll need your services again tonight.”

Services. Hyde’s heart rate quickened. “You must be expecting a lot of deliveries then,” he said lightly.

“Yes… I am. This won’t be until later in the evening though.” Shinamori tucked the money into Hyde’s shirt pocket when he didn’t take it, smirking a little. “Treat yourself and have a nice lunch. I’m sure you’ll be hungry by the time your break comes.”

“I really can’t accept such a generous tip,” Hyde protested, making his big eyes all wide and innocent as he pulled the note out of his pocket. Even though protesting did nothing he’d try anyway.

Shinamori gave him the predator smile again. It reminded Hyde of the crocodiles he’d seen when he went to the zoo with Asagi yesterday. “I won’t take no for an answer. Buy yourself a good lunch and be sure to drink plenty of water. I don’t want you getting dehydrated.”

Hyde bowed his head in submission. There was no point in protesting further since Shinamori wouldn’t take no for an answer. “I will, Shinamori-san.” He pocketed the money and picked up his helmet. “I have to go now. Thank you and have a good day.” He zipped his bag shut and backed away. Showing his back to this man made him uneasy, as did the thought of delivering packages to him in the evening. Shinamori was always pushier at night and got a little annoyed when Hyde politely refused his invitations. What did the man expect though? Hyde wasn’t stupid. He knew favors – like ¥10,000 tips – always came with consequences.

Shinamori nodded. “I will. I’ll see you this evening.” His eyes caressed the redhead’s body and then he disappeared into his office again. Hyde waited until he was in the elevator and the doors had closed before shuddering and hugging himself. He hated when men stared at him like he was something to eat. It always made him feel dirty…

*

Hyde stopped shoveling soba into his mouth so he could speak. “You’re lucky,” he grumbled. He’d called Asagi on his lunch break to see if he was free. He was so Hyde was treating him to lunch with the money that Shinamori had given him. “You get to drive in an air conditioned car.” Both of them had delivery jobs, but Asagi worked for a better company that let him use his car instead of a scooter. His salary was also higher. Sometimes Hyde was tempted to ask Asagi to put him in touch with his boss. He always reconsidered whenever Asagi got a late call or looked half asleep in the mornings due to working late. Hyde valued his sleep and didn’t want to be mixing day and night jobs.

Asagi chuckled softly. “Not always. Sometimes I drive my motorcycle.” He was hot too and had pulled his long, black hair into a ponytail to keep it off his neck. That hair and the dark jeans and t-shirt he wore probably made him even hotter. Asagi’s company didn’t have a uniform policy so Hyde never understood why he wouldn’t wear shorts and lighter colors to cope with the heat. If he could wear them to work he would. Sadly he didn’t have a choice. Hyde had to wear black pants and a yellow polo shirt – that clashed hideously with his hair – with the company logo across his chest.  Asagi was probably just worried about getting sunburnt though. He was so pale he could easily be mistaken for a vampire. That and all the vampire movies he owned…

“True… it’s just so hot today I’d love something with air conditioning,” Hyde griped. Maybe he should go to the pool later and throw himself in the water. Or take a cool bath at home where he could be alone. Probably a better idea.

“Drink extra water.”

Hyde rolled his eyes. “Yes, Mom.” He picked up his water glass and drained it for Asagi’s sake. It was sweet, but a little annoying how the dark-haired man worried so much. Even though they’d only met a few months ago Asagi had quickly become one of his closest friends.

“So aside from the heat, how has work been for you?”

Hyde shrugged. “About the same.” He hadn’t told his friends much about Shinamori – just that he was a wealthy customer who liked him a little too much. Telling them more would only make them worry, something Hyde didn’t need. He was perfectly capable of handling perverts and had been doing so since he grew out his hair. The long hair and petite body made him look like a girl from the back, which drew in creeps like moths to a flame.  Usually Hyde just had to be fierce to get them to back off, but that wouldn’t work on Shinamori. He, unfortunately, wouldn’t take kindly to being told to fuck off.

Asagi glanced at the ¥10,000 note sticking out of Hyde’s wallet. “I see you made a delivery to Shinamori earlier.”

“Yeah,” Hyde sighed.

“He hasn’t… pressured you to do anything has he?” Asagi asked, looking concerned.

Hyde shrugged. “Just the usual. He invited me to have a drink with him, but I told him I had to make other deliveries so couldn’t stay.” He started eating his soba again then made a face around the noodles. “He’s expecting another delivery this evening.”

Asagi frowned. “Call me as soon as you leave his office, okay? I’ll have my phone on hand if you need me.”

Hyde smiled a little. “Thanks, Asa-chan, but I’ll be fine. He’ll probably just ask me to dinner or something like he usually does and I’ll say I’m too busy.”

“All right… just be careful.”

The redhead pouted. “I’m always careful.”

“I know. I’m just worried about you. Someday Shinamori’s going to get tired of you always rejecting his invitations.”

Hyde bit his lip. He tried to avoid thinking of that situation… even though Asagi was right. Powerful men felt that they were entitled to getting the things or people they wanted. One day Hyde’s continued refusals would make Shinamori snap. “Let’s hope you’re wrong.”

Asagi frowned. “Hyde, we-”

“I’ll be fine,” the redhead interrupted. Asagi tended to worry too much about him even though he knew Hyde could take care of himself. They needed a change of subject so he gave the taller man his sweetest smile. “How’s your new kitten doing? Did she butcher another plant?” Encouraging Asagi to talk about his cats instead of an unpleasant topic was too easy.

The dark-haired man gave him a pointed look that said he knew what Hyde was doing. He did drop the subject and start talking about his kitten though.

*   *   *

Hyde pulled off his helmet and retied his ponytail. This time he had three envelopes to deliver to Shinamori. He parked his scooter in front of the building and repeated the same process as earlier. The only difference in the routine was that the guard, instead of knocking and announcing Hyde’s presence, opened the door and pushed him into the office. The redhead stumbled inside and gave the man a dirty look. What the hell was that for?

“I’ll be right with you, Hyde.” Shinamori was standing in front of the window and looking outside. His cell phone was clasped against his ear, but angled away so he could speak to the redhead. “Please lay the mail on my desk.”

Hyde nodded and unzipped his bag. He turned towards the desk, frowning as he saw a bottle of expensive looking wine and two glasses on it. That didn’t look good. He laid the mail on the desk then glanced up at Shinamori. Did he expect Hyde to have a drink with him?

The businessman finished his call and joined him by the desk. “Why don’t you take a seat for a few minutes and have a drink?” he suggested.

Hyde gave him an apologetic smile. “I wish I could. I really need to finish my other deliveries though.”

“It won’t be for long. Please sit, I insist.” Something about his demeanor and eyes demanded obedience. This wasn’t good… Hyde hesitated, wondering what Shinamori would do if he refused, then lowered himself into the chair. He’d cooperate a little then leave. The businessman looked please by his compliance. “How long have you been making deliveries to my office?”

The redhead was surprised by the question. “I think it’s been two months.” He slid his hand into his pocket so he could grasp his phone. I’ll have my phone on hand if you need me. This situation was giving off bad vibes. Dangerous vibes.

“Correct.” Shinamori laid his hands on the desk and leaned forward. Hyde immediately tensed up. Having the businessman this close made him uncomfortable. “I’ve tipped you a lot of ¥10,000 notes,” he murmured. Shinamori reached out to run his fingers through Hyde’s hair. “You don’t want to accept the money, but I think you do since you always take it. After some arguing of course.”

“It’s too much money for a tip.” Hyde’s heart beat faster as he pulled away. He didn’t want this man to touch any part of his body. “You shouldn’t spend so much on me.”

Shinamori smiled. “But I want to spend money on you, Hyde.” The hand that had been in his hair slowly trailed down to his chest.

The redhead immediately pushed his chair back and stood. “I have to go.” He grabbed his helmet then squeaked as the guard was suddenly behind him. He seized Hyde’s arms, forcing him to drop the helmet, then pinned his arms behind his back.

Shinamori approached them. He stopped in front of Hyde and smirked as the redhead struggled to get free. “I’ve been paying and offering you favors for a month now, but you always refuse. I give you little gifts and get nothing in return. There’s no such thing as a free reward, Hyde. You know I want you and I’m sick of waiting for you to submit to me. I will have you tonight.” His smirk widened as he unbuttoned Hyde’s shirt. “…Whether you’re willing or not.”

“Get your hands off me!” Hyde tried to twist his body away from Shinamori’s hands as he squirmed in the guard’s grip. The man was too strong though. He tightened his grip on Hyde’s arms and held him in place for Shinamori.

Hyde gasped as Shinamori got impatient with the buttons and ripped his shirt open. He immediately panicked and kicked out, catching the businessman between the legs. Shinamori collapsed and clutched himself with a whimper of pain. The guard twisted Hyde’s arms as punishment. It hurt, but the redhead wouldn’t go down without a fight. He kicked behind him and caught the guard in the knee and thigh. The man twisted away to avoid his foot, but the next caught him in the crotch. He swore viciously as dropped to the ground. Hyde snatched his helmet and bolted, only to be seized by Shinamori. The redhead hit him with the helmet. Shinamori winced then knocked it out of his hand and slammed him against the wall.

“You’ll pay for that,” Shinamori hissed. He raked lustful eyes over Hyde’s bare chest then unzipped his jeans.

“Get off me, fucker!” the redhead squirmed and punched him in the face. Blood spurted out of Shinamori’s nose; it was probably broken. The businessman clutched his face with a howl of pain, yelling at the guard to seize Hyde. The man was just now getting to his feet and looked murderous. Hyde sprinted out of the office. Waiting for the elevator would take too long so he rushed for the stairs. He took them three at a time, tripping once and falling. He cursed in pain as he banged his knee and elbow against the stairs. Hyde pulled himself back up though and kept running.

When he was two floors down he heard a door open above him. Shit! The guard had found him. Hyde sprinted for the next door and ran through it, almost colliding with a beautiful woman in a purple evening gown and shawl. She looked surprised then frowned as she noticed his ripped shirt and frantic expression.

“Help me,” Hyde begged.

The woman took his hand and pulled him towards the ladies’ room. “Hide in here,” she whispered. Part of him was alarmed at being told to stay in the women’s bathroom. The rest was too scared to care so he bolted inside and hid in the far stall. He didn’t know who this woman was or why she’d helped him, but wouldn’t ask questions. He waited for his heart to stop pounding then tensed as he heard muffled voices outside.

“Have you seen a bike messenger? He’s short with red hair. He’s wearing a ripped yellow shirt and black jeans.”

“Yes!” the woman exclaimed. “He was so rude. He crashed into me and knocked me down, but didn’t stop to apologize! He just ran into the elevator so if you take the stairs you should catch him at the next floor.”

Hyde couldn’t make out what the guard said, but the voices stopped so he assumed the man had left. He was just starting to relax when the door opened again. Was that her?

“He’s gone,” the woman said. “You can come out now.”

The redhead did so. “Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome. I’m Megumi.” She gave him a gentle smile and stepped closer. “What’s your name?”

“Hyde.” He hesitantly approached her. She was taller than him – especially with her heels – and so beautiful. She looked like a model… maybe she was. But what was she doing here? And why had she helped him? His mind was still reeling from everything that had happened.

Megumi looked concerned as she took in his disheveled appearance. “What happened to you? Why was that man chasing you?”

“I’m a bike messenger. I’ve been delivering letters and packages to Shinamori for the last two months. I had letters tonight and he… he tried to rape me. I fought my way free and ran.” Hyde rubbed his arms. They still ached from being gripped too tightly and hitting the stairs.

Megumi looked appalled. “No wonder you were running.” She bit her lip as she looked around the bathroom. “We need to get you out of here.”

“How?” Hyde struggled to keep the panic out of his voice. “Shinamori probably has the stairs and elevators being watched so he can catch me.” Jumping from this height would be suicide and he didn’t fancy his chances with a fire escape. “I… I don’t know how I’m going to get out of here.” Should he call Asagi and see if he could help? Hyde sighed and buried his face in his hands. This horrible situation felt too dramatic to be real, even though it was. He didn’t understand why it had happened to him though. He was a simple bike messenger whose life had suddenly gotten very complicated. 

Megumi frowned. “That’s true.”

Hyde sighed as he raked his hair back. Try to stay calm. “Why are you here anyway?”

“I’m a model.” So he’d been right about that. “Shinamori’s company is sponsoring a fashion show next week and I’m participating. The other girls and I came here tonight to review our gowns and practice for the show.” Megumi’s eyes brightened as she looked at Hyde. “I’ll be right back. Stay here.”

The redhead blinked and watched her go, wondering what she had in mind. And if she’d consider going on a date with him. Hyde had sworn off women after Yue cheated on him, but this one was amazing.

*

Hyde hid in the back stall while he waited for Megumi to return. What if she didn’t? He probably should call Asagi since he had told Hyde to call if he needed help. The other man would get worried and overprotective if he knew what Shinamori had almost done to him so it seemed best to wait and see what Megumi had in mind. She might have a good plan. Asagi would get suspicious if Hyde didn’t contact him soon though.

The redhead pulled out his phone and sent him a quick text. Left Shinamori’s office. Have another delivery and will call you when I’m done.

Asagi’s response was quick. He’d obviously been waiting by his phone. Did he do anything?

Hyde bit his lip. He shouldn’t think about what had nearly happened. The usual. Tried to get me to have a drink with him. I said I had to finish my route and left. I’m talking to my boss when I get back. I don’t want to see Shinamori anymore. He’d tried this a couple weeks ago. Shinamori had been particularly insistent that Hyde come to dinner with him. It’d made him so uncomfortable that he’d talked to his boss, Kobayashi Kenji, to request that someone else deliver to Shinamori.

“I’m sorry, Hyde, but I need you to keep delivering to him. He always requests you and he’ll be upset if I send someone else. He might hire a bike messenger from another company! I need his money, Hyde. And so do you.”

So the redhead had no choice but to keep seeing Shinamori.

Hyde glanced down as his phone buzzed again. Good. I don’t like you seeing him either.

I better go, don’t want to be late. I’ll tell you what my boss says.

Take care.

Hyde pocketed the phone as the door buzzed. Who was here? The sound of heels clacking on the tiles didn’t give anything away. So many women wore heels.

“Hyde? Are you still here?” Megumi asked.

“Yes.” The redhead came out of the stall, blinking as he saw her holding a shimmery silver dress and black heels. “You want me to wear that?”

Megumi nodded. “I do.” She handed him the dress and heels. “Everyone’s looking for a man in black pants and a ripped shirt. They’ll never expect you to be the woman in a silver dress. Please be quick, we need to get out of here.”

Hyde nodded and ducked back into the stall. His parents had wanted a girl so he was no stranger to wearing dresses. He just preferred not to since he’d had enough of skirts and dresses as a child to last him a lifetime. Hyde undressed and stuffed his shoes and clothes into his bag then put on the dress. The sleeves were just long enough to cover the angel wings on his back and the long skirt was looser so he wouldn’t be given away as a man. The bruises were a problem though… Megumi probably had makeup in her purse so he could use that to conceal the bruises. Dress on, Hyde tugged his hair tie out and brushed the red locks over his chest. He then put the heels on, stumbling as he joined Megumi again. How did women walk in these torture devices?

She smiled as she saw him. “You make a beautiful girl. You just need makeup and then we can leave.” She opened her purse and took out foundation and purple eyeshadow. “Hold still please.” Hyde obeyed so Megumi could apply the makeup. Once she was done she stepped back and looked him over with a critical eye, then frowned as she saw the bruises “Oh, Hyde…  I didn’t see those. I’m sorry.” She looked guilty about not having noticed the bruises before.

Hyde glanced at the bruises. “Do you think your makeup would cover them?”

“It should.” Megumi hesitated then gently took his arm and started applying makeup to the bruises. Hyde watched her, surprised at how well it was working. Once she was finished she gave the little makeup sponge to him so he could cover the one on his leg.

“Thank you.” Hyde returned the makeup to her.

“You’re welcome.” Megumi smiled as she looked him over, then frowned again. “Do you need your bag? People will get suspicious if they see you with it.”

Hyde glanced down. “I do.” The bag held his clothes, wallet, other mail, and his keys. Things he couldn’t lose. “Could I use your shawl? I could wrap it around my bag and disguise it.”

Megumi nodded and unwound the shawl. “Of course.” Hyde did his best not to stare as she handed it to him. Her dress was strapless and showed off so much lovely skin.

“Thank you.” Hyde looked away so he could wind the shawl around his bag. “Let’s go.”

“How did you get here?” Megumi asked.

Hyde followed her outside the bathroom. “I have a scooter.”

Megumi looked concerned. “Shinamori probably has your scooter already. I’m taking a taxi to meet my agent for dinner so I’ll bring you with me. You can use that to get home.”

Hyde nodded. “Thank you.” He couldn’t help repeating himself. Megumi had saved him from Shinamori and deserved his gratitude. She smiled in return then left the bathroom. Hyde tried to mimic her walk as he followed her. Moving in heels was more difficult than he’d expected. How did women walk in these? Hyde felt like he was going to fall and make a fool of himself at any moment. Falling in front of Megumi would be so embarrassing, but he was more afraid of giving himself away. Especially when he saw Shinamori’s black-suited men gathered around the elevator and the entrances to the stairs.

“Hello.” Megumi gave the men a charming smile. “May we use the elevator? We need to meet our agent soon and he won’t be happy if we’re late…”

One of the men bowed slightly. “Of course.” He pressed the down arrow for her and stepped aside. The elevator chimed once then the doors opened. So close to freedom. Hyde smiled sweetly at the men as he followed Megumi inside. He let out a sigh of relief when the doors closed behind them. He’d been so afraid his true identity would be discovered.

Megumi laid a gentle hand on his shoulder. “We’re almost there,” she murmured.

Hyde nodded. Almost – but not quite. They didn’t speak after that and rode down to the first floor in silence. Once the doors opened they headed towards the exit. Megumi bid the doorman a polite goodbye as he opened the door for them. Hyde relaxed as soon as they stepped outside. He was free. Safe. Shinamori couldn’t touch him out here. The redhead frowned as he saw his scooter was missing. Megumi had suspected that Shinamori would have taken it. Apparently she’d been right. Shit… Kobayashi would be furious. Hyde would worry about that later though. His boss’s anger wasn’t as important as his own safety.

The redhead followed Megumi to the curb where a taxi was already waiting for them. Good. The heels were killing Hyde’s feet and he couldn’t wait to change his shoes. Megumi opened the door and got inside. The redhead joined her, immediately ripping off the heels. He sighed in relief. Much better. Megumi smiled a little then told the driver where to go.

Hyde waited until he’d driven away from the building before looking at her. “Again, thank you so much,” he whispered. He took the shawl off the bag and gave it to her then pulled his own shoes out. He slipped his feet into them and laced them up. Ah… comfortable. “Could I get your number so I can return the dress?” Hyde asked. And ask you out once this nightmare is over?

“You’re welcome.” Megumi nodded and opened her purse. She took a small card box out then handed him her business card. “Here.” It was printed on a simple white background with a faint cherry blossom design. The card had her name, the phone number and name of the modeling agency she worked for, and her cell number.

“Thank you.” Hyde fished his own card box out of his bag and gave it to her. His card was boring in comparison. It just had his name and phone number along with work information. She didn’t seem to mind though and took the card.

Megumi gave him a gentle smile. “Again, you’re welcome.”

Hyde hesitated as he met her gaze. “Why did you help me?” She didn’t have to and had risked getting herself in trouble if they were caught together.

Megumi looked surprised by the question. She smiled again and leaned closer. “I can’t stand Shinamori. I think he’s absolutely loathsome… I didn’t know what had happened to you until you told me, but I knew I needed to help the moment I saw you.”

Hyde smiled weakly. “I imagine lots of people don’t like him.”

“You’re right,” she laughed. “Excuse me.” She took her phone out of her purse so she could answer a message. Hyde couldn’t help but watch her. He really didn’t want to imagine what would have happened to him if he hadn’t run into Megumi.

*

They reached the restaurant all too soon. Hyde insisted on paying Megumi’s fare – it was the least he could do after all she’d done for him. She thanked him and said goodbye then stepped out of the taxi. Hyde told the driver his address, watching her walk into the restaurant. Hopefully Megumi would let him take her out to dinner someday.

Hyde frowned as his phone vibrated in his bag. Asagi? He pulled the phone out and cringed as he saw it was a message from his boss. I just received a call from Shinamori. Forget your other deliveries. We need to talk immediately.

The redhead bit his lip. Oh no… Shinamori had probably told Kobayashi all sorts of horrible lies about Hyde. He should have texted his boss earlier. Escaping from Shinamori and then enjoying his last moments with Megumi had pushed the thoughts out of his head. I’ll be there as soon as I can. Hyde glanced at the driver again. He’d told the man to take him to his apartment, but should he just go to Kobayashi now? Like this? It would be proof of what Shinamori tried to do.

Good. You have a lot of explaining to do.

Hyde winced and laid his phone in his lap. This was definitely bad. Would Kobayashi believe him when he told him what happened? Or would he believe Shinamori’s lies… if so, Hyde was definitely out a job. He sighed softly. It was best to just go back to his apartment so he could change and regain his composure. Then he could bring a change of clothes in case Kobayashi did fire him. Thoughts of what the man would say circled through Hyde’s mind as the driver took him to his apartment. Once they arrived at the building, the redhead paid him and got out of the cab. Home… He’d repressed the thoughts in the car, but now he was here Hyde could feel what nearly happened to him. His hands started trembling as he dug for his keys. He dropped them twice then finally managed to unlock the door. He gripped the keys tightly as he pressed the up arrow for the elevator, unable to stop his entire body from shaking. He’d come so close to being raped. Shuddering, Hyde entered the elevator and held his head in his hands. Keep it together. Once he was in the safety of his apartment, he could break down. Staying composed was almost impossible though now that the thoughts were present. What would Shinamori have done after he raped him? Let him leave? Forced him into the car for more?

The redhead shuddered again. Stop thinking about it. It hadn’t happened. Megumi had helped him get away and now he was safe in his apartment. Shinamori couldn’t touch him here. Hyde whispered that to himself as he stepped out of the elevator. He was still trembling, but unlocked the door and stepped inside. Hyde kicked off his shoes and locked the door behind him then headed to the bathroom.

“Don’t think about Shinamori,” he told himself. Thinking he shouldn’t was easy, actually doing it was so much harder. The wide-eyed face staring back at Hyde from the mirror made it even more difficult to keep the thoughts at bay. He honestly couldn’t remember the last time he’d been this upset. His pale, scared-looking face reflected his unease. Hyde sighed and grabbed a washcloth. Remove the makeup, change, then go to the office. He cleaned the makeup off his arm, flinching as the finger-shaped bruises were exposed. How… how long would those be there? Hyde lifted his skirt to repeat the process on his leg. He dropped the washcloth, shaking again as he leaned down to pick it up. What other marks would be on his body if Shinamori…

“No,” Hyde whispered. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Breathe. He had to see Kobayashi so needed to calm down. Panicking would have to wait until later. Hyde wet the washcloth again then scrubbed the makeup off his face. He pulled his hair back into a ponytail once he was done. Getting it up was difficult since he kept dropping the hair tie, but finally managed to tie it back. Hyde looked at his reflection. Still pale and wide-eyed. He probably would be for a while… being groped on the train and harassed by overly flirtatious men in clubs or bars couldn’t compare to this.

Hyde shuddered and went into his room. Clothes next. He took the dress off and laid it on the bed then brought a clean uniform out of his dresser. Hyde got dressed, throwing his favorite sweatpants and a t-shirt he’d borrowed from Asagi – he should return that at some point – into his bag as a precaution. Kobayashi would fire him if he believed Shinamori, but there was a chance he’d listen to Hyde. The redhead had been a good worker during his two years at the company. No one complained about him, people liked him, he got the job done quickly… maybe that would be enough to convince Kobayashi that Hyde was telling the truth. It all depended on who he believed: his employee or the rich bastard.

The redhead jumped as his phone vibrated. Probably Kobayashi calling to demand what was taking him so long. He cautiously checked the number. Not his boss – Asagi. Hyde hesitated as he debated what to do. Asagi would know something was wrong if he answered since his voice would give him away. If Hyde didn’t answer, Asagi would assume he was busy and call back later. He probably wouldn’t sound or feel better later so it was best to just answer now. Maybe a friendly voice would be good for him.

“Hey, Asa-chan.” By some miracle Hyde managed to keep his voce normal.

“Are you at home now?”

“I am, but I’m about to leave. I came home to have dinner and now I’m going back to work to t-talk to my boss about Shin-Shinamori.” Hyde’s voice cracked on the name. If only he’d never accepted the man’s tips! Taking them had been a bad idea, but Hyde hadn’t thought there was a way out of it. Maybe there had been. Maybe he just hadn’t tried hard enough.

 “What happened?” Asagi sounded worried. Damn it… of course he’d know something was wrong. Taking the call had been a mistake.

The redhead bit his lip. Asagi’s concern was making the stress and trauma come back. Part of him wanted to confide in his friend, but the rest was afraid he’d break down. “Nothing,” he lied. “I just have a headache from the heat.”

“Then why did you stutter on his name?”

Hyde sighed. Why was Asagi so observant? “Because he’s an ass. He tried to get me to have a drink with him and got pissed when I said I couldn’t.”

There was a pause, then Asagi spoke again. “Do you want me to come over? I can tell something happened. Something you’re not telling me.”

Hyde sank down on the bed with another sigh. The other man was way too good at seeing through his lies. Or in this case, hearing. “He was… really pushy. More so than usual.” He pulled his ponytail over his shoulder, nervously running his fingers through it. “Can we talk about this later? I really need to see my boss.” Kobayashi would be furious if Hyde was any later than he already was.

“All right. Do you want me to pick you up at work?”

Hyde hesitated again. Asagi would want to know what happened as soon as they saw each other. Maybe that would be for the best though. As much as Hyde wanted to forget the incident and move on, he knew he should talk about it. Also the meeting with Kobayashi could easily go badly. If that was the case, Hyde would return home more miserable than before. His thoughts would consume him if he was alone so it was best to take up Asagi’s offer. Being with him and his cats would help. “Please.”

“Okay. I’ll leave soon so look for my car.”

“All right.” Hyde brushed his bangs back. “Thanks, Asa-chan.”

“You’re welcome. Take care, okay?”

“I will.” If he could. Hyde would have to call Sakura later and tell him what happened. …That might be a bad idea though. It was too easy to picture the other man going after Shinamori. Asagi at least was calmer. He’d be furious when he found out what Shinamori tried to do to Hyde, but practical enough to stay away. “Bye.” The redhead hung up then texted Kobayashi to let him know he was on his way. He then grabbed his bag and left the apartment. The train station was about a block away so as long as Hyde arrived in time to catch the train he’d reach the office soon. Probably half an hour. Anxious about the usual perverts that saw long hair and felt the immediate urge to grope, Hyde sat near the front of the train. Just the thought of some creep touching him was making the thoughts come back. The redhead hugged his bag against his chest and tried not to let his unease show. It was hard not to since his stomach felt like it was twisting itself into knots from nerves. What would Kobayashi do if he believed Shinamori? Fire Hyde of course, which would make finding a new job a pain. The redhead pictured different scenarios, nibbling on his lip until he tasted blood. He forced himself to stop after that. Coming to work with a chewed up lip – then seeing Asagi – wouldn’t be good. 

Hyde glanced up as his stop was called. He got off the train and headed towards the office, sighing as he entered the building. Kobayashi would probably fire him just for taking forever to get here. Well, he’d find out soon. Hyde bit his lip again as he reached the man’s door. This… would not be a good conversation. He raised a hand to knock, hesitated, then finally knocked. His hand shook from nerves and he tried to keep the anxiety out of his voice as he announced himself. “It’s Hyde. I’m sorry I didn’t come earlier…”

“Come in.” The redhead obeyed. Kobayashi was in his forties and about average height with short-cropped hair and glasses. He was dressed in a simple suit today with the company shirt under his blazer. His expression as he looked at Hyde was a mixture of shock, disappointment, and confusion. “Sit.” He indicated the chair in front of his desk. Hyde flinched a little. This reminded him too much of his earlier encounter with Shinamori. Kobayashi had never shown any indication that he desired Hyde though so he should be safe.

“What did Shinamori tell you?” he asked as he sat down.

Kobayashi frowned. “He said you went… crazy in his office. You attacked him when he offered you a drink! You kicked him, broke his nose, fought his secretary when he tried to protect Shinamori, then threw the entire building into an uproar when you ran out! And you left your bike behind. What the hell happened?”

Hyde’s jaw dropped. He’d done all those things, yes, but for a reason. “Shinamori isn’t telling you the whole truth.”

“What is it then?”

“He tried…” the redhead’s voice cracked. “He tried to rape me.”

“What?” Kobayashi looked appalled. “Why would Shinamori do that? He’s been so kind to you.”

Hyde frowned. Oh no… he’d been afraid his boss would believe Shinamori. “I’m telling the truth! And he hasn’t been kind. He’s a lecherous scumbag that tips me too much money, refuses to take it back, then keeps trying to get me to spend extra time with him. He got sick of waiting for me to have sex with him so he tried to collect by force!” Hyde opened his bag and pulled out the ripped shirt. That, along with his bruises, were evidence. “His guard, not his secretary, grabbed me then Shinamori ripped my shirt o-”

“Stop,” Kobayashi sighed. He adjusted his blazer then looked at Hyde. “Shinamori’s description of your behavior is extremely out of character for you, but it’s easier to believe him than your fantasy. Shinamori is a kind, generous supporter of my company and he’s been so helpful to you. Other delivery boys would be thrilled to have a wealthy customer repeatedly requesting them for deliveries, but you complain and lie to get out of seeing Shinamori. I-”

Hyde interrupted him. “I’m not lying!” How could his boss believe Shinamori? He stood and pushed his sleeves up so Kobayashi could see the bruises. “I got these from his guard holding me in place. And,” he held up the ripped shirt, “Shinamori ripped my shirt open. I kicked his guard so I could escape. Shinamori grabbed me before I got to the door so I broke his nose to stop him from taking off my pants.”

Even though Hyde had proof, he could see that Kobayashi wasn’t convinced. “That’s enough. I don’t understand your grudge against Shinamori, but I don’t want to hear any more of these absurd lies.”

Hyde dropped the shirt on his desk. “Why won’t you believe me?” he demanded, tears pricking at his eyes. “You saw my bruises and shirt! You know me; I wouldn’t lie about these things.”

Kobayashi sighed. “Last month you came to me and said Shinamori was pressuring you to spend extra time with him. After you left my office I called to ask Shinamori if he was having any problems with you. He was surprised by my question. He said no, that you were perfectly charming. Then I asked if he was giving or expecting anything in exchange for your services. Shinamori said no, that he just gave you extra water and some money because you were so young. I knew you were lying about him then.” He frowned again. “You still are even though this… performance is convincing.”

Hyde gave his boss a stunned look. How could he say such things? How could Kobayashi doubt him? “So what, I’m fired because you think I’m a liar?” he felt tears coming again and blinked them back. This man didn’t deserve to see him cry.

Kobayashi smiled. “You don’t have to be.”

Hyde was immediately wary. “What do you mean?” he had a bad feeling about this too. Was the world out to get him tonight?

“You’re very beautiful, Hyde. I’m sure you know this. If you apologize to Shinamori and spend the night with me I can make this entire situation go away. You’ll continue to work for me… I’ll just need that pretty little body on certain nights.” Now Kobayashi had the crocodile smile as he studied Hyde.

The redhead froze, backing up a step. He’d never have guessed that Kobayashi desired him. He didn’t stare at Hyde’s ass, ask to spend extra time with him, or give him lustful looks like Shinamori did. His boss had always been perfectly civil and treated him no differently than his other employees. “And if I refuse?”

“You’re fired.”

Hyde gritted his teeth. “I quit then,” he hissed. He wadded the ripped shirt into a ball and threw it at Kobayashi. “I’m not some whore that sex-crazed bastards like you and Shinamori can play with. I’d rather be unemployed than sexually harassed.” He stormed out of the office and slammed the door shut. Hyde gripped his bag tightly and sniffed, doing his best to keep the tears at bay. Once outside he couldn’t stop them from falling. Asagi… where was he? Hyde needed him.

He sniffed again and dried his tears as he looked for Asagi’s black car. He soon found the other man parked near the corner and leaning against his car. As Hyde got closer, he saw Asagi holding his phone. Squeaky little meows were coming from it… probably watching a cat video. That made Hyde smile. Asagi really did love cats. “Hey, Asa-chan,” Hyde said, voice cracking on his name.

Asagi looked up and frowned as he saw the redhead’s tears. “What’s wrong?” he asked, looking alarmed.

Hyde stepped closer so he could slide his arms around Asagi’s waist then leaned his head against his shoulder. The taller man tensed a little in surprise. Hyde wasn’t the most cuddly person so didn’t give out hugs all too often.

Asagi returned the embrace and pressed him closer. “Talk to me, Hyde. What happened?”

Hyde clutched his shirt. “Disgusting, sex-crazed pigs,” he whispered.

The dark-haired man froze. “What?” he grasped Hyde’s shoulders and pushed him out to arm’s length so he could see his face. “Did they touch you? Hurt you?”

Hyde looked up. Asagi was rigid and his expression showed a mix of anger and concern. “I’ll tell you in the car.” He didn’t want to talk about this in the open where anyone could eavesdrop. Especially his now ex-coworkers…

“All right.” Asagi let him go then opened the door for him. He got in once Hyde was inside and started the engine so they could talk in the air conditioning. It was still hot outside so the cool air felt good. He then turned to face the redhead. “What happened?”

Hyde sighed. Where to begin… he slumped back against his seat and began his story with his arrival at Shinamori’s office. Asagi was quiet as he listened, but obviously furious since his fingers were curling into fists. He pulled Hyde into his arms when he mentioned Shinamori ripping his shirt open. That part was hard to talk about, but he didn’t say anything until Hyde said he’d run down the stairs.

“Why didn’t you call me?” Asagi demanded. “I told you to call if you needed help!”

“I know… and I thought about it.” Hyde held up his arm so the dark-haired man could see his bruises. “This,” he touched one, “is from where I fell down the stairs. There’s another one on my leg. And the others are from Shinamori’s guard.”

Asagi frowned as he studied the bruises. “Again, why the hell didn’t you call me?”

“You didn’t let me finish,” Hyde sighed. The dark-haired man let him continue without further interruptions. It was obviously difficult for him so he kept Hyde in his arms to compensate for not being able to talk until the end. Normally he’d complain about being cuddled for too long, but this felt nice. The redhead hadn’t realized how much he wanted someone to comfort him until he’d seen Asagi. “…Then I told him I quit and found you.”

Asagi looked livid. “They’re despicable,” he growled. He sighed and reached up to stroke Hyde’s hair in an attempt to calm both of them down. “I’m so sorry you had to go through this. Do you want to stay with me tonight? I don’t think you should be alone after what happened.”

Hyde nodded. He’d come to the same conclusion earlier. “Please,” he whispered. Once he’d calmed down some more he’d call Sakura. He’d been worried his best friend might do something stupid earlier, but didn’t think he would now. Sakura would be too concerned about Hyde to want to deal with Shinamori. And it wouldn’t be right to tell Asagi and not Sakura.

The dark-haired man rubbed his back. “How do you feel now?”

“Stressed,” Hyde said quietly. “Hurt. Upset. Disgusted. Scared…” he looked up at Asagi again. Normally he tried to be strong since he hated when people assumed he was weak based off his looks, but he didn’t even want to try tonight. “I… I think I was in shock earlier,” he murmured. “I was calm in the taxi… then I couldn’t stop shaking once I was outside. I probably still look terrified.”

Asagi stroked his hair again. “No, you just look upset. That’s how you should look given what’s happened.” He smoothed Hyde’s bangs back and smiled at him. “You’re safe now though. Shinamori can’t hurt you and neither can Kobayashi.”

Hyde nodded. “I know.” He knew he was safe from both men. It was just difficult to escape his troubled thoughts. “Oh, I should give this back to you.” He pulled back from Asagi and opened his bag to take out the shirt. “I brought this to change into if meeting with Kobayashi didn’t go well, but now that you’re here…” he trailed off and held up the shirt he’d borrowed. They’d been eating lunch at Asagi’s apartment last week and Hyde dumped curry on his shirt when the kitten surprised him by pouncing on his foot. Asagi had loaned him a shirt and he hadn’t gotten around to returning it yet.  

The dark-haired man blinked as he saw the shirt. “I was wondering where that went. You can keep it if you want.”

“Are you sure?”

Asagi nodded. “I am.”

Hyde smiled weakly. “Thanks. Let me just change my shirt. Then can we stop for food? I’m hungry.” Food had always been his cure for stress.

“I figured you’d be hungry.” Asagi waited patiently while Hyde tugged the yellow uniform off then pulled his friend’s much too large shirt over his head. Ah, much better. It was nice knowing that he’d never have to wear that uniform again. Hyde buckled his seatbelt then glanced at Asagi, who was looking at his phone.

“There’s a soba restaurant a couple blocks away.”

Hyde smiled a little. “That sounds good.” Of course Asagi knew he wanted to eat his favorite food.

*   *   *

After getting soba and some chocolate, Hyde spent that night with Asagi and the next with Sakura. By the time he went home he felt calmer. Bad things had happened, but he was safe now. Shinamori couldn’t touch him and Kobayashi wasn’t low enough to pursue him for sex. It’d been a few days since he’d returned home and he did his best to put the incident out of his mind. Meeting with Megumi yesterday to return the dress had been a welcome distraction. She only had time to meet him for coffee since she was so busy with planning and rehearsing for the show, but promised to give him a call when she had more time. Hyde looked forward to that. And asking her out on a date.

In the meantime, the redhead had been relaxing. Playing video games, watching movies, catching up on TV shows… He needed to start looking for jobs soon since he couldn’t be unemployed forever. Where to work though? Hyde definitely didn’t want to work as a bike messenger again. Maybe he could work at a tattoo shop? He’d done that before. The downside of that was dealing with creepy yakuza guys hitting on him. Two of them had gotten particularly nasty when Hyde refused to go on a date with either of them. Maybe the tattoo shop was a bad idea. He’d had enough of creeps.

Hyde decided to think about jobs later. Right now he needed groceries. He finished his list then left the apartment. As he walked down the street, he had the sudden feeling of being watched. What was that? Had Shinamori sent men to follow him…? No, that couldn’t be. That was too drastic. Hyde’s first instinct was to turn and look around. He’d give himself away if he did that so he tried to act normal. He turned as if he were stretching his back muscles, but couldn’t see anyone. Maybe he was just being paranoid. Hyde shook his head and continued towards the train station. The feeling continued to persist though so he crouched down to retie his shoe. Hyde kept his head down and peered through his bangs to see if anyone was watching or following him. There were so many other people on the sidewalk it was impossible to tell. It had to be paranoia. Probably just lingering distress from that night.

The redhead pushed the matter out of his mind. What he needed was more food. A good meal and dessert were always the perfect cure for distress.

Note
1) This story is the start of why Hyde ends up joining the yakuza. The next part will explain the rest. 
2) I've spent hours editing this and I did one last read through before I posted, but I'm still anxious about missing typos or little errors. Please point these out if you see them!

Comments

[eadwine63.livejournal.com]

*claps hands* I don't know why but I really love this series... xD
I liked this. There's a typo somewhere though. somewhere there is a "voce" instead of "voice".

I like the way you mix OCs and ehm .. Asagi, Hyde, Megumi, Sakura .. You know all the celebrities. xD It seems so natural and also I think that adding OCs like that makes it seems as if you're really writing your own story instead of fanfiction. I like it. Maybe it's also because of the strange mix of Asagi and Hyde, which works perfectly well for me. xD

[write_my_dreams]

I'm glad you do!
There is? I'll go find that. I spent so much time editing it I figured I'd miss an error or two.

For this one I had to bring in a couple OC's to be the creeps. Other instalments are celebrity oriented though... It does, and that's what I like about AU since I can actually write my own story. Lol it is a strange mix but it works. I keep dreaming about them too so obviously my mind likes them together XD

And Hyde adores Asagi... he gets very jealous when I write him with Tsunehito. Jealous little brat.