Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The music industry has always represented the pivot of the world. It counted far more than many other sectors and was able to lift entire countries out of giant crisis. The most famous labels were considered assets to the economy and, in Japan, PM Label had been invaluable for decades.

At its head there were generations of the same family. At the moment, sitting in the red armchair, there was a man gifted with an intellect and a method of approaching out of the ordinary. He had taken over the company after his father - that almost had risked bankruptcy - died of old age and restored it to its former glory.

Its economic balance amounted to billions thanks to the excellent artists, soloist or bands, that he had chosen and trained. His method of recruiting was as effective as risky: selection.

For all his years as CEO he never opened real auditions, but instead walked with his daughter through the busy streets of Tokyo and observed the young artists who exhibited.
Dancers or singers who performed to entertain and who didn't expect to be in the crosshair of the owner of the largest label in Japan. Like that all the most famous idol in Japan were born, making PM label the most biggest agency of the last decade.

And its CEO, Mori Ougai, famous around the world as one of the most influential person on the planet. However, he would never have expected that the meeting with a fifteen years old boy would've change those numbers in such exponential ways.

The first time he met Dazai Osamu was on a moist October evening. He had found some free time to take Elise to a new shop that just opened and ended up bumping into a group of people standing by and listening to a guy who was playing the guitar at the bus stop.

Passers-by reserved some curious glances, but not many stopped to listen. Only people like Mori did it, standing on the wet pavement and give him their full attention.

Elise didn't seem happy with the sudden change of plans, but she didn't protest. She could wait a little bit for her cookies after all. As an apologize his father give her a strawberry lollipop from the pocket of his coat. His eyes, however, never left the boy's figure.

He was sitting on the bench, bent over the guitar resting on his thighs. Brown hair hid his face as he moved his fingers over the strings. They were covered in band-aids as if he had never used a plectrum before and in fact he didn't have one, leading the man to wonder how much pain the boy might be experiencing playing.

During the performance his eyes never left the guitar as if no one was there to look at him. As if the public didn't exist and he wouldn't even care about the money left in the worn case. Mori found it interesting...different from all the other artists he had spotted. Their main goal was to attract and entertain the audience by interacting with them. Glares, words, gestures and sometimes even flirting were allowed just to make people stop and keep them with their eyes glued until the end of the performance.

The reward for the artist? Notoriety.

Because more people stopped and more phones would've made videos, then posted them on their social media; more people stopped and more money would've been found in the case at the end of the day; more people left happily and just as many would've stopped again to watch next time. More people you had around you, more chance there was of being noticed.

That boy, however, didn't seem interested in entertaining anyone. He stood there playing as if the whole world didn't exist until the end of the song. Then, those ten phones stopped recording to give him a round of applause and left. The show was over and it was time to go back to their evening stroll.

The only ones left were the three of them. Elise and Mori stood, while the water bathed the big black umbrella, and Dazai sitting under the canopy.

"Why are you making music, boy?" The first to talk was Mori. Dazai's head rose and there was an expression of pure confusion and surprise on his face at the unusual question. He was used to receiving applauses, but no one had ever spoken to him after playing.

For a second, silence fell between them again.

"Why are you interested?" For the first time their eyes met and Mori was quick to notice the bandages that covered his neck and arms over the jacket.

"You should interact with your audience. It's not a good thing for a street artist, don't you think?"

"I'm not a street artist. I was playing because I felt like it and I was bored. I didn't ask you to stop and listen to me." The tone of voice was sharp, but not maliciously. It was the plain and simple truth. He hadn't taken out his guitar to entertain, but only because he wanted to pass the time that the bus was stealing from him.

"What did you expect? People are attracted to music like sailors from the lighthouse. If you start playing in the middle of a street, it's sure that a hundred people will look at you and at least ten will stop to listen. In a good or bad way you will be the target of those ten phones and your case will be filled with crumpled bills and coins. Whether you want it or not."

Mori's tone was also sharp as if he was bothered by the words Dazai was addressing to him. From the outside it might even have looked like a fight could start between them anytime. One wrong word and one of them would've warmed up.

"Why are you lecturing me, Mori-san?"

That was enough to cool the spirits.

Since Mori had never introduced himself to him, the mere fact that he had been recognized made his chest warm. Being so famous, being recognized around (especially thanks to the red scarf) no longer surprised him as much as it once did, but somehow it felt different.

Knowing that he wasn't a stranger to Dazai seemed the beginning of the climb to success.

"Twelve." Dazai spoke again and brought him back to reality. Not even Elise's tantrums and tugging on his coat had woken Mori from his trance.

"Excuse me?"

"There were twelve of you looking at me not ten." An easily noticeable detail, but not if your eyes had never left the guitar. How had he figured out the exact number? Had he looked up before Mori arrived or was he just guessing?

He was too sure of himself to be like that.

When Mori opened his mouth again he decided not to answer Dazai's previous question, but to ask a new one. He asked for his as one banknote was dropped into the case, adding to the others. However, Dazai took it and handed it to him.

"I don't need your money. You can take it back."

"Consider it as a gift for the great music you played me. So? Can you answer my question now?"

Dazai's eyes narrow unsure as he yanked the money back and tucked it into the pocket of his black jeans. He then got up to put the guitar away in its case.

"Fifteen. Now can you leave me alone? I have to go home." It was a lie. He had made arrangements with his classmates to go eat together downtown, but the late bus and the downpour immediately made him lose interest. He was therefore obliged to stay under that shed since he forgot to take an umbrella with him.

He could have run under the rain all the way home, but his mother would've been angry to see him wet after she had recommended him to take an umbrella at least three times.

"You looked older." Mori admitted and a smile peeked across Dazai's face. It wasn't the first time someone had told him, actually. The bandages had always given him the impression of being more mature; the dull look and expression on his face made him look more serious and his brain had given him the opportunity to skip a year at school.

Opportunity that Dazai decided not to take. He did it because he had no interest in meeting and being surrounded by seniors and having to introduce himself to new teachers and students who would've looked down on him because of his age, personality or for the bandages. To be honest if it had been for him he would never have set foot in school again.

He was only going because his mother wanted to. She wanted her son to excel by exploiting his intelligence and becoming the first in the family to graduate. Dazai was only doing that so that she would've been happy and would even get carried away to a party with relatives after the graduation.
So Mori's next request would've been a little bit complicated to accept.

"You have talent. I would like to have you in my agency."

Occasions like those happened only once in a lifetime and Dazai knew it. In a big metropolis like Tokyo, getting noticed was as easy as it was impossible and often if it actually happened it was just a scam. However, the man in front of him wasn't a scammer. Anyone, who was at least a little knowledgeable about the Japanese music label, knew the his face and wanted his attention.

Dazai was never interested in his future. He knew what he was going to do until graduation, but he didn't have any wishes to fulfill afterwards. Though a future with his guitar seemed a thousand times better than years of going to a stupid college that would have led to a eight-hours shift a day of a job he didn't care about.

So it was easy for him to choose, but he was still a minor and so the choice was up to his mother. The woman would've never have done anything to prevent her son's future, but she had always said that he had to finish school first.

A solution had to be found. Dazai knew he could do it.

"My mother is home. If you want you could come and talk to her." Mori's face seemed to shine with the ease with which Dazai was accepting, but Elise did not seem to agree. With a harder tug on the red scarf and a higher tone of voice she finally drew the attention of the two to herself.

"I don't want to! Dad promised me some cookies and soon the shop will close!" She screamed and it was now impossible to ignore her as she was also attracting the eyes of passersby. Mori reached down to her height and ran a hand through the blond hair and across her face to wipe away tears. He had spoiled his daughter too much, but he would do it again and again despite the whims and the poor figures she made him do in public.

"Forgive me, but I think I have to decline your invitation," he said as he took a black ticket from the pocket and handed it to Dazai. It was thick, opaque paper and gold lettering marked the agency's name, address, and a telephone number. Even the business cards looked like they were for rich people.

"Talk with your mother and come to the agency tomorrow. Feel free to choose the time that is most comfortable for you." Mori said, then indicating the address on the ticket "By the way...What name do I have to leave said at the reception to let you pass ? "

"Dazai."

"Very well, Dazai. I hope to meet you again tomorrow. If that doesn't happen I will know that I don't have to press further." And with that said their conversation ended. Dazai didn't deign to greet and Mori, along with Elise, mingled in the crowd of people and umbrellas.

The last words spoken were a lie. if Mori hadn't seen him the next day, he would have returned to the bus stop every day until saw him again and tried to convince him. He might have been considered a madman or sued by his mother, but Mori had smelled the talent of a future star and wouldn't have easily let it slip away.

Luckily for him he didn't have to go through all that hard work because the next day at 3:35 pm he received a call from the reception on the ground floor. Speaking was one of his employees who quickly told him that Dazai had arrived. Mori was never been so happy to hear the woman's voice and he immediately told her to let him pass.

Mrs. Dazai was objectively a beautiful woman. She had long brown hair, green eyes and impeccable clothing. The silver earrings adorned the dress she was wearing and matched her heels. She looked like a business woman as she negotiated with Mori about her condition.

"I want him to finish school. I won't let his talent be wasted." So the most important point of the discussion had just been put on the table. Mori had been able to persuade her to many other points. She had argued a bit at the idea of having her son away all day.

The other points were more insignificant: schedules, work and training. All things easily treatable.

"Nobody here wants to stop Dazai from studying. We give the possibility to educate our artists through evening classes or private teachers. Your child will have a diploma if this is what you want and in the meantime he will produce music"

Atsuko looked at Mori with the eyes of a fox, scanning his face for a gesture or even just an expression that betrayed him, but found nothing. The man was sincere and dedicated to the training of his new artist.

"Can't he go to public school like he does now?"

"He could, but the time isn't optimal. He would have to wake up early and then train late. With evening classes or tutoring he would work in the day and then study with our teachers in the evening. By doing this we don't risk putting too much stress on his brain."

For the entire conversation Osamu was silent as if his future wasn't being talked. Mori thought he did it because he agreed on all points, but in reality Dazai was exhausted. If his mother was there, sitting talking to him, it was only because Dazai had been up all night thinking about how to convince her.

The night before, when he was alone on the sidewalk, he thought for a moment that he had imagined everything. The only evidence he had to argue otherwise was the 10,000 yen bill and the card in his pocket.

Only God knows how many times those writings were read while Dazai waited for the rain to calm down so he could go home without getting soaked. He had text to his friends that he couldn't make it and after an hour he was able to run down the sidewalks, slalom between people while he held the guitar on his shoulder.

He reached the apartment complex in ten minutes and took the elevator to the fifth floor. The creaking of the doors as they closed was just one of the small signs that indicated how much the building needed to be repaired. It was an old complex, but suitable for those who, like Atsuko, had to raise a child. Their home was normal and enough for two, but Dazai had always wished they could leave.

Working for PM Label would most likely bring him some money and by doing so he could have allowed his mother a better life. A life in which she didn't have to do two jobs to pay the ridiculous rent the owner was demanding.

When he opened the door he was hit by the smell of ramen and the noise from the TV. The kitchen light was on so his mother was probably still eating.

"Osamu? Are you back yet?" Her voice was high above the noise and as the footsteps approached the kitchen she turned and smiled. "You did it quickly."

"I didn't go. The bus didn't pass by and it was cold," Dazai said as he took off his jacket and hung it up. Without saying a word, his mother got up from the table and went to pour some ramen into another plate.

"Luckily I made some extra ramen then. Come on sit down and eat with me " Her voice was so warm as she smiled and she warmed up the plate in the microwave. This seemed like the best time to inform her of Mori's proposal, but something about her was telling Dazai not to. There was no need to spoil that moment.

They ate together while Atsuko laughed at the TV presenter's jokes. Osamu looked at her and waited for the best moment to talk, but he couldn't. If he brought it up, that atmosphere of joy would go away and he didn't want to.

But despite his silence, it happened anyway. The guy on the TV had announced the adv break and the ramen on their plates was finished. Atsuko had stood up and she was washing the cutlery when she spoke again.

"Your father called earlier."

Those simple words were enough to freeze the room. Dazai's father was known to be the most asshole of assholes. He never showed up after his fifth birthday and preferred to live with his new family. Only in the last few months he had shown up again to claim that Dazai was also his son.

"He said he wants you with him. That with him you would have a better chance of going to college and that you would have a better life." Her voice was low while she was rubbing the same plate with the rough side of the sponge.

"And I don't mean to go-"

"You should." She interrupted in a higher tone, stopping from torturing the dish and leaving it in the sink with the sponge. "You have to go with him. He lives in a nice house with a garden and a pool too. You would go to a nice school and you would have so many friends. Oh Osamu, you deserve it so much."

As she spoke she had moved closer again and reached down to take her son's hands and squeeze them in hers.

"He can buy you the meds that you need and you won't be sick anymore. I can't give you all this-"

"I found a job."

Dazai who interrupted her. The sentence didn't come out as he would have liked and it certainly wasn't in his plans to inform her like that, but he had. The woman's expression immediately made him realize that he had hit the point and that she was silently asking for an explanation.

"Do you know Mori Ougai? The owner of PM Labels?"

Atsuko was silent for a few seconds, thoughtful, as she tried to remember where she had heard that name. She then remembered the interview she had briefly watched on television while she was preparing lunch that morning.

"I was playing the guitar before and he stopped with his daughter. He even left me his business card if you don't bel-"

"No."

"But mom!"

"I said no, Osamu!"

Dazai already knew that his mother wouldn't have appreciate the new situation, but he deeply hoped that she would be able to see further and take all the advantages that the opportunity could give him. Not only to him, but also to her and their life.

Extra money, bills paid, food on the table every day and maybe even the satisfaction of some personal whim.

The Mori Corporation wasn't only famous for the skill of its artists, but also for the lifestyle that the agency gave them. Even the less famous enjoyed fair salaries and if necessary Mori had no problem helping as much as possible. Obviously the more famous you were, the more money you made, but even an amateur like him would have had a more than decent salary.

That's why he had decided to take that job. Of course, music had also contributed to the choice, but in that case any agency would have been fine. In fact, more likely Dazai would have decided to produce his own music.

But to be able to live with his mother in a nice house or visit her and find her in a kitchen that didn't have mold on the ceiling would have been a dream. He would take her a nice house with a fireplace so that he could play the guitar in front of it in the winter.

He would give her the life that his father hadn't been able to give them.

It was that motivation that gave Dazai the strength to fight back and stage a possible fight.

"Why not? It's an opportunity and I could help you with the bills and the house. You shouldn't have to work late and tak-"

"What? No, Osamu...dear. You don't have to think about this." The woman's voice had softened as she approached to take his face in her hands. The feeling of warmth on his cold skin made his cheeks warm and her smile did the same with his heart. "You are just a boy. You have to think about having fun, making friends, having experiences. You have time to work and worry about me in the future. For now you have to let mommy solve everything."

"You won't solve anything if you send me to that asshole." Maybe those words were too sharp, so much that the woman gasped. Her fingers moved away and remove a lock of hair from his face.

"I know you don't want to go and I don't force you. What do you think if we talk about it tomorrow? I'll think about it and tomorrow we talk better over a bowl of cereal."

"But we're out of milk, mom."

"We will invent something. Now go to your room," she urged while turning to the sink and went back to scrubbing the dirty dishes that were left. The conversation ended there and the atmosphere was light. There had been no arguments, his mother hadn't cried and she had said that in the morning they would talk about it. Dazai could sleep peacefully.

He didn't. He stayed up all night doing research on the agency and marking every positive point he found among the artists' websites, interviews, statistics and social networks. In particular, he highlighted singer Hirotsu Ryurō's comment about how the agency had returned to its peak thanks to the new CEO.
Then he spent hours preparing and learning the motivational speech he would give in the morning as an emergency.

But maybe it was more for himself than for his mother at the end.

And so it ended up that Dazai had to put on concealer to cover his dark circles and drink three coffees for his interview.

"We give each of our artists the opportunity to live in one of our apartments. Dazai, as a minor, can both stay with you at home or live here if you agree to. He would still be under our supervision." It was the new clause Mori began to tell to awaken him from his thoughts. Not that Dazai didn't already know about this from his research, but he had conflicting opinions about living alone.

"Couldn't my mother live with me?"

"I'm sorry, but it's only for artists. She can come and see you as many times you want as and - if it stays between us - she can sleepover as long as she wants" The complicit smile made Dazai smile too. That man was not bad at all.

"You mean that wouldn't bother you at all?"

"I can't let you live there because you aren't my artist Mrs. Dazai, but as long as Dazai isn't distracted from work it's not a problem if you want to stay there."

And that problem too had been solved quickly and optimally. He had obtained consent from his mother, a good education, a future with his guitar and a new home.

Of course, legally she would still be in their apartment and therefore there was still the problem of bills and various costs.

"And the salary?" Those were the first words Dazai spoke. A yawn nearly escaped when he opened his mouth and received a nudge from his mother for the question.

It wasn't professional or even nice to ask for money, but Dazai needed to know.

Mori didn't seem irritated by the matter, but he became thoughtful. The index finger tapped on his chin and then he smiled as if he had just remembered something important.

"I recently hired another artist. They're thirteen year old and they immediately had a corp salary. We usually give artists a salary of around 150,000¥ at the beginning, which they will then give us back with the sale of their product "

"What if that artist doesn't sell enough to pay you back?" Atsuko's question was as right as the answer was obvious. So much that Mori answered her with a smile.

"In that case, unfortunately, they would have a debt to us, but don't worry. Over the years I have never made a mistake about my artists. In fact I'm sure that your son will one day be one of my cover artists"

The interview then continued for only about ten minutes. Mori had the various documents and the contract signed, then offered Dazai a quick tour of the main rooms of the building and then of the apartment. Atsuko had to greet her son with a kiss on the forehead to go to work.

As he walked on the burgundy carpets in the corridors and saw the busy people in the recording rooms, Dazai realized that a new life was about to begin. He was like a fetus in his mother's womb.

"You didn't sleep, Dazai?" When Mori spoke again he scared Dazai that he had got used to the silence created between them once they listed all the various rooms on the floor and went into the elevator.

"I did some research." In the background a cheerful little music created a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.

"To persuade your mother? I would say you did a great job." The doors opened on the ground floor and Dazai saw how all the employees present stood at attention when they noticed their boss' presence. As he walked towards the entrance he greeted everyone with a smile and stopped to talk to some of them for a few seconds.

Dazai, being with Mori, was also attracting attention. Employees, as well as the media and the public, were drawn to Mori Corp's newcomers. That's because as soon as they arrived they still consider them ordinary people like themselves, but within years the weight of fame would make them seem inaccessible.

The smiles and warm welcome that Dazai was receiving from the girls at the front desk would transform over time and he knew it. Him and Mori didn't stay long talking to the receptionist with long black hair and the gray secretary suit. All they said was a greeting and Mori requesting the key of the apartment.

"Let's go see your new home. Would you like to?"

And Dazai had never been so sure about something in his life.

Chapter Text

After Dazai's signing under PM labels his career experienced many ups and downs. In more than eleven years he had had to undergo grueling training, - in which he really thought he would see the skin melt from his fingers - rejections from other bands, covers of songs that were trendy at the moment and long hours with Mori and his boring lectures.

Only in his fourth year in the agency Mori officially opened the project for the formation of a new band. The most famous of the time, Lemon bomb, had been disbanded after their drummer, Kajii, set the stage on fire and injured some fans a little too close. PM labels had faced a difficult court case that took a good year to prove the innocence and unawareness of the team and all employees, except for Motojiro.The news of his arrest went all around the world and,although the band had changed the drummer, nobody trusted to go to one of their concerts again. Mori was therefore forced to disband both for lucrative reasons, since they no longer sold, and for the well-being of the members.

Dazai will always remember when the boss asked him to come to the office. He was composing a new melody and in the background, barely perceptible, the murmur of the news could be heard. The news broadcast concerned their case, narrated by a series of videos of those present, some photos and the journalist's flat voice. Dazai reached over to the table as he balanced the phone on his shoulder and reached for the remote. Soon the voice disappeared and the screen went black.

The call only lasted a few seconds, but Dazai knew from Mori's tone of voice that something was about to happen. There had been, immediately perceptible - as much as the man had tried to hide it - a note of bitterness in his voice.

After all, losing the company's biggest profit, which turned in at least a million a year, had been a low blow even for him.

When Dazai sat down in front of the man's desk he looked radiant tho. He looked at Elise, making sure that Elise didn't miss any of the exercise that her teachers given her to do at home.

After ten minutes Mori looked up at Dazai, forcing him to swallow the lump he felt in his throat.

"Thanks for your patience, Dazai." He said putting his hands together and fingers intertwined. "As you may have heard the case of Motojiro and the Lemon Bombs has officially been closed with a win for us."

Dazai nodded.

"This is good of course, but it doesn't improve our economic and social situation. People don't trust our label anymore and it brings us less income." The annoyance in his voice was clear . "You will agree with me that I-...we need something new and fresh to make everyone forget about this unfortunate accident"

Considering that an accident and not the madness of a man obsessed with fruit and pyromania.

The turn that the conversation was taking seemed to please Dazai and made him more comfortable in the armchair. His back straight, naturally inclined towards the desk. Dazai swore to himself that if Mori would've asked for another album of cheesy covers he would've kill him with his own hands, staining the little girl's math notebook with blood.

Luckily for all of them that wasn't the case.

"That's why I would like you to form the new band that will sign under my company. Of course you will also be part of it as lead guitarist."

And that was even more than what he had wished.

(Looking at the situation from the future he should've expected it because Mori didn't offer the best lessons and teachers to someone who wasn't destined to excel in that world.)

He had always imagined his real first job as something simple. His greatest aspiration was to become the talented guitarist of an already formed band as was Hirotsu's original plan. It was a shock for the poor teacher when all of PML's bands stood him up and Mori himself didn't approve his strategy.

"Dazai was born to shine on the best stages. Not to perform small, Hirotsu."

With that everything would've been different tho . He would basically be the leader of his first band and could choose the style, the members, the instruments. Mori obviously had a big word in those choices, but it was still a great opportunity and responsibility for a nineteen-year-old boy.

And about that...

“Don't you think forming a new band would only lead to more scandals?” The formal tone now forgotten. “Public opinion may see this as a provocation.”

A subtle smile graced the man's face as he rested his chin on his joined hands, looking at Dazai in the eyes.

“Don't worry about that. I'm quiet sure that it will take you a long time before fully forming your team.”

What?

♫

Dazai hated when Mori was right.

The memories of the meeting that took place years ago were retracing him as he enjoyed his first quiet evening in weeks. The legs stretched out on the coffee table, the comfy sofa under his butt and the smooth whiskey in his throat improved the situation a little.

It had now been eleven years since he had signed under Mori and seven since the beginning of the project, but the band wasn't yet fully formed from an official point of view. Although Stray Dogs was at the top of the ratings in Asia, annual earnings three times higher than Lemon Bomb and two world tours under its belt, it was still not an official band on paper.

Nor was it in Dazai's mind.

Over time, each piece was slowly filled and emptied several times, until the perfect blend of talent and coordination was found. He had found his bassist and rhythm guitarist by sheer luck almost immediately, but it took him much longer to find a drummer.

Above all, he had carefully selected someone who didn't look like a crazy arsonist.

“How long has it been since we spent an evening doing nothing?” The drummer said. He was a twenty-year-old boy - name's Tachihara - who was as talented as brash and insufferable in Dazai's opinion. If he hadn't been so perfect musically with the rest of the band he would have walked him to the door with a kick in the ass.

Dazai looked from the glass to the four people who were with him. He often didn't even realize how old he was compared to the other members. The one who came closest was Akutagawa who was twenty-one years old.

Thinking about it, Dazai began to feel the old age with aches and pains in his back.

The only one who saved him from this awareness was his manager and best friend.

From the very beginning of the project, Mori had partnered Dazai with someone only four years older than him. His name was Oda Sakunosuke, but Dazai had never openly called him like that.

“Your name is too complicated. Oda is too short to say, but Sakunosuke is definitely too long. AH! Just saying it curls my tounge!" A younger Osamu exclaimed “Found it! From now on you'll be Odasaku."

And no one in the band or their acquaintances had ever called him by his first name anymore. Perhaps only Mori to maintain a facade of professionalism.

“Probably three or four weeks. Odasaku has been accepting events all the time.” The flat cold voice that had been added to Tachihara's complaints was none other than Akutagawa's, the rhythm guitarist. The boy was sitting on the sofa in front of Dazai's with his arm stretched across the back and holding his sister leaning against his chest. The girl was pleasantly sleeping with her hair down and smudged mascara staining her brother's white T-shirt.

They had been the first to join the band and to be Dazai's students and it probably hadn't been a good thing for them to have this privilege. Dazai was harsh with them, but in the long run it had borne fruit. Gin was one of the best bassist around and Akutagawa had learned to follow the rhythm and the changes, even though he still made some mistakes.

Odasaku laughed lightly at those accusations as he shrugged and took another sip of whiskey kindly offered by the house owner. “You know that homecoming from a tour is like this. We can't stop just because you're tired.”

The two boys looked at him as if they wanted to kill him before snorting loudly and throwing their heads on the edge of the seat back behind them. Gin simply moaned undisturbed in her sleep.

Dazai had to hold back a laugh, smothering it in the glass. It was always nice when the they could get together and spend the evening at Dazai's house, drinking and enjoying each other's company. It wasn't always possible due to work commitments or Tachihara's absence. Dazai still had to figure out what was so cool about the underground scene that it attracted his drummer so much.

“Can we not talk about work. I risk throwing up the whiskey and the instant spicy ramen.” He said and received a disgusted look from Tachihara who stood up, taking a cigarette from the pack. Soon he was out to the terrace to light it, followed by Odasaku. Akutagawa watched them walk away, heartbroken. Everyone in the band had the annoying habit of smoking, except Gin. Out of respect for her and Dazai's white leather couches everyone had entered into a silent agreement that they must smoke outside or at least near an open window. No exception.

“Go with them if you want. I'll take care of Gin.” Dazai said and Akutagawa looked at him. He smiled gratefully, but shook his head, making move the metal accessories attached to the strands of his two-tone mullet. He squeezed his sister tighter and covered her to keep her from getting cold.

He had yet to understand that no one got sick in July except for him. If Dazai had been in Gin's place he would have already died from heat or soaked in sweat, but it was certainly a loving gesture and appreciated by her.

"You are thoughtful today, Dazai." The boy spoke again as he looked at his teacher and friend. "You have been for a long time actually."

Dazai looked at him in surprise. Eyebrow raised for emphasis. Recovering himself, he shook his head and focuse on how the ice cube swirled around the edges of the glass.

“I was just enjoying the moment. We are together every day in the studio, but few times outside. It's been a while since we had a night like this.”

“It hasn't been that long since Tachihara's birthday. Three weeks without us and you miss us already?” Odasaku, who had returned inside, laughed followed by the subject of the conversation.

“I heard my name. Y'all gossiping about me behind my back, huh? What unspeakable cruelty.” He exclaimed – always in an appropriate tone of voice to not disturb Gin, collapsing dramatically on his armchair. His head dangling over the armrest.

“I was just about to complain about how on your birthday you abandoned us to go celebrate with your punk friends.” Dazai laughed. If there was a dig in his words then it wasn't perceptible. It made Tachihara frown.

“Come on dude! I did it because I promised it to Albatross. Today I gave them up and I'm with you. We're even, aren't we?" Dazai was happy to see that frown disappear because it only made him want to slap his friend even more.

The others didn't enter into the conversation, preferring to discuss among themselves. About what? Work, of course.

Fucking workaholics, Dazai thought.

“What are you two muttering about? We said no work!” He exclaimed throwing a pillow in Odasaku's direction. Unfortunately for him he had miscalculated his reflexes and the pillow ended up landing on poor Gin and waking her up.

“Dazai!”

“...oops”

♫

Although the years had passed, Mori's office never changed. The only difference in six years was the total absence of the drawings that previously filled at least one of the three walls. After all, Elise had grown up and taken her "art" away with her childhood.

The gray walls were adorned with posters, prizes and awards of the artists. Most of them were there thanks to Stray Dogs and it warmed Dazai's chest every time he was summoned.

The morning after their night together the group had to wake up due to Mori calling on Odasaku's phone. The boss wanted to see them to discuss some details and to personally congratulate them on the income from the world tour.

Finally, seeing that they had been back in Tokyo for a good month and still hadn't gotten to see him.

As they got ready and left, most of them cursed himso much for waking them up early that no one would be surprised if Mori's ears would've kept ring for the rest of the day.

“My dear boys!” The CEO exclaimed when he saw Dazai followed enter with the others, spreading his arms to welcome them. A little dramatic? Maybe, but it was better than seeing him angry. Nobody complained.

"Boss." Odasaku greeted him first since he was the manager, bowing more out of habit than formality.

“Sakunosuke. I have consulted the reports you sent me and compared the data with the sales team. I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised by the results” a feeling of pride flared up in everyone's chests. “Even though I must admit I was worried about the singer. You were lucky that Sasaki agreed to help you.”

Thud.

The singer's position was the only flaw in the perfect harmony of the band. Quarrels, mistakes and beatings only strengthened their bonds, but the vacant position of such an important role hurted the band more than anything. The opposite could be said about ratings and views. Part of the fame of Stray Dogs was also due to the surprise effect on members. Everyone wanted to go to the concert or see on video who the new member would be, but by now they were getting impatient. Their fans, and themselves too, wanted to find the singer who would stay with them forever.

Dazai wanted it so bad too. He wanted it, but he was picky.

Sasaki had been the one that had lasted the longest, but after six months her voice had started to bore Dazai. He didn't feel it fit anymore to the sound of his guitar and he even thought about changing his way of playing, but if he had done so he would have been out of tune with Akutagawa. They had to find someone who fit right in with them.

At that point he seemed almost impossible.

"Nobuko was very kind and willing to agree to go with us despite her solo commitments." Odasaku said and there was a moment of silence after. "However, I'm having some problems finding a singer for the next performance on radio”

Mori gaze changed while he raised the eyebrows thoughtfully.

“I assume Sasaki has resumed with her album by now. Am I right?"

"Yes, sir."

"Hm, I understand. Have you tried with Montgomery?

” “She is currently on tour.”

“Daisuke?”

"Same. He is not available for that day. I contacted his manager.”

The other names of the former singers of the band were mentioned and that was enough to show how picky Dazai had been towards choosing that position.

Who knows if we'll ever find someone who stays, he thought.

“I see we have a problem here, but I trust you'll sort it out, won't you?” Mori addressed everyone, making a shiver grow on their backs. That tight smile immediately made them nod before being officially dismissed.

An hour later they were all sitting on the sofas in the recording studio, silent. There was only Gin speaking and proposing names every now and then, receiving only negative answers from Odasaku.

Busy.

Occupied.

Sick.

Then there were someone else besides Akutagawa capable of getting sick in midsummer.

“We still have a week. Maybe something will change and one of them will recover or be available.” Akutagawa tried to light up the room.

“What if they don't?” Odasaku replied “Dazai. Do we have any song that Gin could sing and play at the same time? Dazai?”

But Dazai wasn't listening, or rather, he was knowingly ignoring him. His gaze was focused on their drummer.

“Tachihara” The redhead raised his head. "You've been tapping your foot since you've been here and your nails are about to be completely bitten off. You're thinking about something, right?”

The boy didn't answer at first, stopping his trembling leg and hiding his hands between the thighs. He hated how good Dazai was at observing people.

“I…might have someone that suit us.” He muttered and any of them never had seen him so quiet.

“Ah?! And you couldn't said that before I name all the former members?” Gin's voice was as sharp as her iconic eyeliner. "You idiot."

“Oi!” He exclaimed, trying to defend himself. Odasaku went to his rescue.

. “Who is it? It's a new one, isn't it?” Tachihara nodded.

“He's one of my punk friends" he made air quotes. "But I know it'll be hard to convince him."

"Hard?" Dazai raised an eyebrow. "Why? Isn't he good?"

“No, no, no” Tachihara shook his head. “He has one of the best voices I've ever heard, but…”

"But? Tachihara speak. It sound like you're talking about a serial killer!" Akutagawa snapped.

“He is a rapper!” The redhead exclaimed back in response and then threw himself back against the back of the red sofa. “He has a beautiful voice, but he prefers rapping to singing. I don't know if I'll be able to convince him to perform with us."

The silence lasted a few more seconds before Odasaku spoke.

“Trying never hurt anyone.” Dazai frowned at him "Try to convince him, but you have two days or I'll look for someone else."

"Are you sure, Odasaku? Already with singers it's difficult, it'll be even more with someone who only raps.” Dazai asked and the man shrugged, taking the pack of cigarettes.

“In that case we'll have a week to train him, right? What's your friend's name, Michizou?”

And Dazai would have loved to know how much that name would've change his life in the long run-

“Nakahara Chuuya.”

- not sure if in a good or bad way.

Nakahara Chuuya.

Chapter Text

The Tokyo underground scene. If for many - foreigners and not - all that the city's nightlife could offer were the 24/7 clubs and the areas packed with food stalls and karaoke, well they were very wrong. The bravest and most open-minded might think of red light districts like Kabukicho, but even they didn't get into the heart of the matter. Maybe they weren't even aware of its existence.

Its name was Extasy.

It wasn't a precise place and it didn't concentrate all the people who were part of it in a single point, making them fit like sardines. Extasy was everywhere and in every corner of the city.

The group of delinquents smoking under one of the bridges? Extasy. Two rappers freestyling at night at the train station? Extasy. The noisy group of racers driving at 125 km/h crossing half the city in few minutes?

Extasy

Extasy

And Extasy again.

The underground scene was where even just one of its members, "the chosen ones" as they like to call themself, was enjoying the night without thinking about anything but themself and their own well-being. More mental than physical health at this point.

Among them there was also a group of four souped-up cars that whizzed and slalomed along the coast to reach their destination at full speed: Ota City. Luckily for them it was close enough to Shinjiku so they could also take it easy. Would they do? Absolutely not or they wouldn't be themself.

"Albatross!" A hoarse voice raised the huge volume of the music that the other driver was playing. "Turn off that shit or mute yourself!"

Someone else coughed.

“Icyyy.” Albatross exclaimed indignantly as he passed a Toyota in front of him and caught up with the car from which the complaint had come. Through the rolled-down window and on the passenger seat, Doc was clearly visible with his hair tousled and an arm dangling. Iceman was driving. “Don't you appreciate my taste in music? Doc loves it instead.”

"You make the sounds of the hospital machines seem like the gates to heaven." He yelled over the wind, the engines and the music.

That answer provoked two different reactions. In Albatross, struck in the pride, caused dismay. However, it made both Iceman and Chuuya laugh.

Nakahara Chuuya.

He sat on the passenger seat of the Mazda, looking out at the view. His shoes forgotten since the beginning of the ride to be more comfortable, his face illuminated by the city lights and his hair blown by the wind. He was regretting rolling down the window to allow their friends to talk. They had the group call for that after all.

"In my defense it's Chuuya who has control of my playlist right now." The blonde laughed , getting a blow in the ribs from his friend. The music was then turned down out of spite and the window up.

“Chuuya, you are our savior” This time it was Piano Man who spoke while driving the Nissan in front of them. He was currently in the lead.

The next ten minutes kept going between jokes and taunts thrown at each other. Piano Man always remained in the lead, followed directly by Lipp and then by the others. Albatross occasionally tried to turn up the volume, thus forcing Chuuya to stop arranging his hair to mute their microphone. On the other hand, Doc's cough was sometimes audible from the phone and like an idiot he persisted in keeping the window down even at more than 100 km/h.

Near Shinagawa Albatross took off the mute from his phone, announcing his retreat. “Okay guys. I take the kid to his performance. We'll reach you for the race.”

In response, they received blank greetings before the call was ended and their paths parted from the group. Taking the exit ramp their new goal would become Meguro.

"Call me a kid again and I'll puncture your wheels five minutes before a race." Chuuya talked first, making his friend laugh. He responded with a shrug.

“So that I can't withdraw? How cruel you are, Chuu.”

As they advanced along the road towards Meguro the coast receded further and further away, eventually making the sea just a vague memory. Unlike before, there weren't many speed cameras or cars to get in their way so Albatross was able to press the gas. The car screamed and so he did.

After another ten minutes the flashy car was driving, at normal speed so as not to run over passers-by, looking for a suitable place to park. They attracted the attention of many who, without hesitation, picked up their phones to take pictures or videos. From the window Chuuya saw a little boy tugging at his father's sleeve as enthusiastically pointed at them. Albatross lolled happily in his seat, bobbing his head to the music. As a true exhibitionist he knew how to grow his ego with anything.

“Yo, kid!” He rolled down the window and stopped. In a few seconds the sound of the engine and the squealing wheels made the child jump and scream with joy, causing annoyance in the rest of those present. Mainly the cars behind that beeped at Albatross, making him jump. Chuuya just preferred to sink into the seat so as not to laugh out loud.

Once they got back on the road, their destination wasn't far away. They parked about two blocks away for safety reasons and then walked. In the heat of summer, even though it was night, the leather jacket that the older one had persisted to wearing seemed to suffocate him. That resulted in a walk full of complaints that Chuuya had to suffer.

Music finally began to be heard in the background compared to the murmur of cars and people. It was like an injection of pure serotonin to Chuuya's brain that started running among the others on the sidewalk, trying to figure out where it was coming from. He had the address, but it was still an unknown area to him. It would've taken him ages to follow the signs so he relied on his instincts and his ears.

Those made him stop in front of a small road that separated an old shoe shop, apparently closed for a long time given the rickety sign, and a pub. Albatross behind him dropped to his knees to catch his breath. Nonetheless, he still had the jacket on.

“So it's here? You guys are crazy to be so exposed.” He gasped as he looked down the dark alley.

Chuuya rolled his eyes pleased and step in. The real party was beyond the thick steel door, hidden by the dumpsters. Near them smoking a cigarette and standing guard were a group of five. Hearing footsteps approaching, they stood up menacingly. Albatross swore he saw a gun, but that wasn't so surprising considering his friends in Ota.

"Oh. It's you, Nakahara.” Satou said, lowering his baseball bat and scratching his goatee-covered chin that, with the bald, was a quite comical combination. “It's about time. You're late, kid."

Satou and his group were some of the oldest people Chuuya had ever met within Extasy. Despite not exceeding the age of forty, the underground was kept alive thanks to rebellious teenagers and adults on the verge of bankruptcy. If you imagined a group of criminals with bats and knives, you certainly didn't expect someone like Satuo.

"Grampa. Blame it on the driver." Chuuya replied, pointing his thumb at his friend behind him and laughing at the shove he received. "Are they here tonight, too?"

The man sighed and lit another cigarette. “As always. They follow you just like good little sheep.” He laughed at his own joke, making Chuuya sigh.

The sheep. They were a group the same age as Chuuya and for a long time, years back, they had been like family to him. However, he wished he'd never see them again in his life.

Albatross snorted as Chuuya simply nodded. He greeted them and then opened the door, walking into the building. Immediately his ears were hit by the high music coming from the different speakers, blinded by the colored lights and the sense of smell disgusted by the reek of weed and smoke. A popular rap song filled the room with the the gold color of the projectors. On stage, someone dared to try to follow the rhythm.

Making your way through the bodies seemed more difficult than usual. Chuuya swore he also elbowed a poor girl's boobs at some point. Sorry, love.

Normally sending Albatross ahead - decidedly taller and bigger - would have been the wiser choice, but that wasn't the case since it was Chuuya who was known there. The rapper's face was familiar to most of those present.

Holding the sleeve of Albatross' leather jacket tight, Chuuya walked towards the stage. In the process he had to stop quite a few times to talk or greet someone. Crossed the tiny space that divided the entrance from the stage Chuuya was already dripping with sweat. It was better to not speak about Albatross.

At the side of the elevated structure with their laptop on the knees and the headphones on there was who he was looking for. Yumeko, or rather Q for everyone, was the one who managed the music of their gathering.

Why a thirteen-year-old kid was there was yet to be figured out, but they were so fucking good at computers that no one ever bothered. Chuuya wrinkled his nose at the idea of seeing someone so young there, but after all he wasn't older either when he started going around.

“Yo, kiddo” He took off one of the earphones and Yumeko rolled their eyes, bored. When they recognized Chuuya that annoyance lessened a bit. "What do you have for me tonight?"

Q pointed to an ear and Chuuya quickly put on the headphones he stole earlier, covering the other with an hand to muffle the sound of the music from outside. Immediately the beat was perceptible, making his head move in rhythm. He smiled. Perfect as always.

He took off the headset and handed it back to Yumeko who gladly took it back. They said goodbye almost immediately and Chuuya moved away again to be able to light a cigarette away from the still young and healthy lungs of the brat.

“Sooner or later someone will call to report their presence here. Don't get too attached, Chuuya.” Albatross's words made his jaw stiffen and he consumed almost half the cigarette with a couple of puffs.

"Shut up."

♫

In the mean time, Tachihara had entered through the steel door, sweating too much for someone wearing only a black tank top and ripped jeans.

But how can someone blame him when he has to face Chuuya and ask him the impossible? He had already mentally prepared himself for a negative response - even insults or yelling - but he could still fell his heart racing and his palms sweaty.

Finding his friend in the crowd, unless he was on stage or held on to someone's shoulders, was impractical. Not even the bright color of his hair helped with the smoke, the lights and the other people's extravagant hairstyle. He would wait for the performance.

Yes- he told himself -it is certainly the best choice.

Obviously he wasn't doing it to make up for time. Absolutely not.

A girl's hand on his bare bicep and a winky look from her was enough to make him forget the anxiety building in his chest. Yes. Waiting was definitely the best choice.

♫

An hour went by very quickly as everyone enjoyed dancing to the notes of all kinds of songs. It had gone from rap to pop to trap. Every genre had been reproduced to meet everyone's needs. The temperature in the basement had risen so much that it was stifling, but that wasn't what was causing Chuuya to lose his breath.

After Albatross had abandoned him to go with a girl who knows where, Chuuya had been left to dance alone. It didn't last long though because a man had approached him from behind. In less than five minutes they were already off the track with Chuuya against the wall. His arms hang around the taller's neck and a knee between his own thighs. He hadn't gotten to get a good look at his face, but somehow he knew he was handsome just by his hold on his muscles, the hair and the way he kissed.

The kissed for a while, but just as they were about to go on – did this guy have any shame about not getting a boner in front of everyone? – a familiar alarm interrupted the moment.

It was time for the challenge.

Chuuya reluctantly pulled away from the other body, taking a good look at him for the first time. He smiled at his unkempt hair, swollen lips and shortness of breath. Cute.

He gave him one last kiss, before pulling away from the wall and walking towards the stage. He looked at him one last time and saw him laughed and covered his face with a hand, excited.

Jackpot. Chuuya's mood couldn't be higher, but when he took on the stage and was greeted with cheers and applause it only got higher. He fucking loved that place.

The backing track Q had played to him earlier began playing from each speaker, focusing mostly on the bass that was shaking the walls of the facility. The audience, feverish, was just waiting for one of the rappers to start the challenge. Besides Chuuya there were three other dudes on stage. One of them looked no older than the DJ and the others seems close to Chuuya's age. One of them even had a horrendous haircut if he was looked closely, but this was not the time to think about the bad stylistic choices of his opponents.

Chuuya was the first to start, causing the crowd to roar. That was all that mattered at the moment.

♫

The time spent dancing – and doing other things – with that girl had certainly done wonders for Tachihara's mood and braveness. As he walked back to the basement he could hear the crowd louder than before and the music replaced by the voices of the rappers competing tonight. Among them, of course, there was his target.

Bingo.

Now that he was on stage it wouldn't be easy to miss the little redhead. By the way he others three were out of breath and the sweat was streaming down their foreheads, Tachihara knew the show was coming to an end now.

Moments later the base ended, but Tachihara was more busy noticing who raped the last piece. Bowl hair, embarrassing glasses and a white coat kept as a jacket.

Motojiro Kajii. The man, following the charges and the debts to pay to the families of the victims, had ended up bankrupt. When he started attending Extasy a lot of gossip started circulating, but no one was ever afraid to get him on stage. In fact everyone wanted to see if he would set it on fire again. As mentioned, no one was sane in there.

But why he was in Meguro and especially on that stage? Kajii stuck with bands. Just tonight he had changed his plans starting to rap about ... lemons? No one was very surprised though.

The screams and applause, however, were enough to remind Tachihara that he wasn't the one who should be the center of his attention, but Chuuya who was already stepping off the stage.

Shit, I'm gonna lose him now. He thought as he pushed forward through the crowd to reach the stage. He didn't have to worry about Motojiro anymore. It was enough to find Chuuya and take him to a more secluded place to talk in peace without the deafening music just put back on the speakers.

But when he saw him leaning against the wall and with a cigarette between his lips his heart sank seeing that he wasn't alone. From the outside that must have looked really comical, but Tachihara really wanted to kill himself right then.

“Cool, right? My last verse about lemons” Kajii enthusiastically said to Chuuya, opening his arms. The other was just looking at him with a raised eyebrow, wondering what the hell someone like that could want from him. “Come on, Nakahara, don't look at me like that. Shouldn't rookies be treated well?”

“You are not a rookie. Go back to playing drums or something. There's no place here for rhymes about fucking fruit." He replied calmly, but deadly. As he took another puff, his eyes finally landed on Tachihara. His expression changed to amazed and this made his interlocutor's head spin too.

Oh shit. The two redheads thought together.

That Kajii still held a grudge against Mori was a fact. He had repeatedly said it in interviews and shouted it to the whole world when he was drunk. He felt even more hatred towards Stray Dogs for becoming more famous than him and his band. However, that hatred was especially towards their drummer. Not because Tachihara had said or done anything to him - they had never even talked to each other - but just because he was the drummer of the band he hated.

“Tsk” He spat, straightening his back and putting both hands in the pockets. “Dogs.”

Tachihara sighed, stepping forward. He wasn't afraid of having to fight with that idiot, but he had a mission to accomplish that was already difficult for him. “Motojiro. I'm sorry, but I think I need to steal Chuuya from you for a moment. I have to talk to him.” He said, getting a confused look from one and a hateful from the other.

“What would one of you dogs want from someone like Chuuya?”

The redhead's fists clenched. “I don't see how it's any of your business. And for the record, Chuuya has been my friend since before I joined the band, but I don't feel like I owe you any explanations.”

The cold tone only raised the temperature around them. The people near seemed to be starting to feel the change.

"Yo yo yo!" Albatross, who had remained silent watching the squabble together with Chuuya, exclaimed “As much as I'd love to see you fight with drumsticks, Chuuya has to come with me. I have a race in an hour.”

Kajii mumbled something incomprehensible before making his way through the crowd to go out and that was how the show ended. Albatross smiled satisfied at Chuuya who was taking another cigarette from the package, clearly bored by the whole thing. Pushing away from the wall he waved at Tachihara, but was quickly grabbed by the wrist.

“Wait, Chuuya!” He exclaimed, receiving a look even from Albatross who was a few meters ahead. "I really have to talk to you. It won't take long, I promise."

"Dude-" the blond snorted and then approached. “If it's so urgent come in the car with us that I'll offer you a ride, but you'll owe us at least three bowls of ramen for this."

Shit! Yes, it's fine.

He nodded and let go of Chuuya's wrist. At first Tachihara was afraid that he had made him angry somehow, but he soon realized that the other hadn't been touched in the least by all the events that had taken place in these ten minutes.

“What's the point of three bowls if there are two of us?” He muttered as he got into the car.

“You know I would never eat two of them. So I'll give you half.” Albatross turned on the engine.

"Then take two of each and then give me half of yours, too!" Chuuya exclaimed, then dropping the conversation, turning to look at Tachihara who was sitting in the center of the back seats.

"So? What do you have to tell me that is so important that it can't wait?"

And in life many things Chuuya Nakahara does should be underlined with the words don't replicate at home. That includes kneeling in the seat unbelted while your best friend drives at fast speed. For a moment, only the sound of the engine was audible.

“Would you sing for Stray Dogs?”

A slight lurch was enough to make Chuuya's forehead hit the headrest.

"What the hell?!" The two yelled at the same time as Albatross quickly regained control of the car and Chuuya rubbed his aching forehead. A red mark was forming, but a bruise wouldn't remain.

Tachihara, taken aback by the skid, had found himself almost lying along the seats. Time to recover and the first thing he saw looking up was Chuuya's face. “Is this a yes by any chance?” He tried to be ironic.

"No, it's not!" Chuuya scremed, sitting back normally and finally putting the belt on Albatross's advice. Meanwhile he was silent and watched the road, only glancing in the rearview mirror.

Tachihara sighed and straightened up. The belt had left a red mark on his neck. “At least listen to me, Chuuya. I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate at this point."

"If you go near Itabashi it's full of street singers. Ask one of them."

“But I don't know their voice well. It would take me ages to find the right one!”

“You don't even know my voice! I'm a rapper not a fucking singer.” He was starting to warm up. Bad sign. Tachihara had to take a deep breath.

“But I do.” His voice dropped to a whisper. “I heard you singing here in the car with Albatross or while we were drinking at your house. Chuuya, please.” Silence hung over the car and Tachihara took it as a cue to move forward. “Just once and I can make sure no one knows it's you singing. It will remain a secret between us in the band and you."

The silence continued, but it was still better than screaming. It meant Chuuya was at least considering it.

“When would that be?” he asked.

"Next week."

The conversation ended there. Tachihara didn't insist any more, opting to text him the address of the agency and a time when he knew all the band members would be there to listen to him. The only thing left for him to do was hope that his friend would accept. The rest of the night passed without touching the subject. 

♫

When Dazai opened his eyes in the morning he already knew that that day would be different. He couldn't explain it, but it was like a feeling that ate his stomach and wouldn't let him go. It was there while he showered, ate and went to work. Even seeing his friends didn't stop that annoyance from lingering for the rest of the morning. Relieving him of the situation was seeing how even Tachihara looked nervous, checking his phone at least once every few minutes.

“Michizou. Is everything alright?" Gin asked while adjusting the strings of her instrument. All eyes turned in their direction. "I've never seen you so nervous."

"Yeah, sorry." He smiled "Do you remember when I said I had the singer perfect for us? Well, I met him last night.”

"Really?" She exclaimed, excited “So what did he say?? Tell me that he will sing for us”

"Seeing his face, I'd say no." Her brother laughed. As much as he could do without seeming weird or creepy.

“No, I mean...” Sweaty hands around the drumsticks as he looked at Odasaku. “He didn't say anything. I texted him the place and time, but I'm afraid he won't show up.”

“The important thing is that you tried. If he doesn't show up we'll just find someone else.” The manager said softly, patting the boy on the shoulder. With that said, everyone went back to rehearsing the song.

It was during the break that three knocks at the door caught their attention. It was one of the receptionists on the ground floor who knocked. Dazai recognized her by the typical uniform they were used to wear, but she hadn't been the one to get his attention.

"Sorry for interrupting. Tachihara, the boy you told me to let pass is here.”

Dazai's first impression? Red. Red and tiny. The boy behind Koharu only edged past her by a few inches, even though she wasn't wearing heels. His hair was red, even redder than Tachihara's, and held away from his face with a set of colorful clips. He looked younger than Dazai by at least a few years even from the way he dressed. Loose white shirt with prints, black baggy jeans and black leather jacket. All way too big to be his size. Maybe they were one or two more.

Seeing him, Dazai almost regretted dressing in a simple oversized T-shirt and sweatpants.

“Chuuya!” Tachihara exclaimed, get up from the stool to reach his friend. "I knew I could count on you!"

Tachihara hugged him - or rather, he crushed the boy who was trying in every way to get away. When he let go, Chuuya's perfectly styled hair looked like a small bird's nest and a green hair clip was dangling. While Chuuya tried to settle down, the other turned to the band members who remained motionless and watched. Koharu was already gone by then, closing the door behind her.

“Guys, this is Chuuya. Chuuya, these are the band members.” He introduced them one by one starting with Odasaku and also indicating their positions. Dazai was kept last.

“And this is our leader, Dazai. He created the band and he's the lead guitarist.”

For the first time Chuuya looked up at him and their eyes met. At least they were brown, making him look more normal to Dazai.

“Nice to meet you, Nakahara.” He cracked a smile and Chuuya did the same.

"My pleasure, Dazai," he bowed to and then giving his attention to Odasaku who had taken the floor.

“We are happy to have you here, Nakahara. Has Tachihara already explained to you how it works?”

"In big words yes. I know I have to sing for you, but please call me Chuuya.” He said and Dazai was not surprised that the drummer didn't explain everything in detail.

"Yeah, you're right" he said himself. "But first we have to hear if your voice fits us well. You know, since you're a rapper we think that yo-"

“Do you think that I what?” Chuuya interrupted with anger in his own voice. The more rigid posture and narrowed eyes.

“I think-” Dazai corrected himself “- that you won't be suitable for us, Nakahara.”

“Dazai!” Tachihara and Odasaku exclaimed. The first's hand extended towards his friend.

“Ah? If I'm so bad for you then why did you accept me here in the first place? Leader of my ass.”

Dazai forced himself to clench his fists, immediately recognizing the arrogance that that little ginger had inside himself. He hated it. Before he could even argue, Odasaku came to his rescue.

“Please don't listen to him, Chuuya. We're all happy to have you here.” He pressed on the subject, making his friend's nose wrinkle. “You can start with a song of your choice. At least we understand your style and timbre.”

Chuuya looked at him in silence for a few seconds, then going towards the microphone and adjusting it to his height. Dazai would have found it cute if Chuuya hadn't done it.

Seconds later he started singing an acappella version of some old pop song and…

Holy shit.

Chapter Text

Do you know the feeling that you have when you listen a song for the first time and immediately realize that it would become your favorite? Maybe it wasn't perfect and the pace faltered, but for some reason you liked it so much you didn't consider all those mistakes. It was what happened when Dazai heard Chuuya sing for the first time.

After adjusting the microphone to his height, the boy took a deep breath and started singing. His method was far from perfect with the rhythm being too fast sometimes and the voice that he couldn't keep sharp for longer than a few seconds. Yet all those little mistakes seemed to fade away, filled up by the low smooth timbre.

As he listened to it Dazai seemed to hear Gin's bass strings playing as if they were born to follow Chuuya's voice. Anyway, that perfect combination alone wasn't enough. Chuuya had to be able to harmonize with the other instruments as well or they would come full circle like with Sasaki and the other singers before her.

Chuuya's gaze while he was singing never stopped and Dazai saw it. His eyes moved over each of them several times and, if at first the guitarist thought it was because of nervousness, then he understood that it was for something else. Chuuya was studying their reactions and changing his timbre if he noticed hints of disappointment or doubt. He noticed it when he wrinkled his nose at the sudden speed in the chorus – caused by his rapping habits – and Chuuya slowed down quickly.

Dazai had to hold back a smile as he leaned back against the wall and followed Chuuya's rhythm with his head. A thousand thoughts were screaming in his head and the rational part of him was telling him not to bet everything on a rapper, but there was something in that voice that drew himself to him. It just needed a little training.

Chuuya's mouth parted for air, lips that barely touched as he spoke the words, the blush on his cheeks at the satisfied looks of others and the reactive eyes were just some of the characteristics that Chuuya's face had at that moment. Dazai looked from him to his band mates and he already knew that he would no longer have a word about the decision. They were staring at the singer enthralled – Tachihara in particular with an idiotic smile on his face – and following the rhythm with head movements. Even Akutagawa was almost smiling.

When Chuuya finished he took a step away from the shaft and crossed his arms, waiting for someone to speak. His gaze was fixed on Dazai as if he wanted to dare him to say anything, but before he could Odasaku intervened.

“Tachihara wasn't wrong in saying you'd be perfect for us.” He said and the hint of blush on Chuuya's cheeks only increased. “But we need to talk about it privately first. Do you mind?"

"No, don't worry. I'll wait outside.” He said and walked towards the door, smiling at Dazai who was still leaning against the wall. The man felt his insides boil at that grin, making him want to slam the boy against the wall and brand the shape of his rings on his face. However, Dazai forced himself to calm down when Odasaku called him to approach and sit down so they could start the quick meeting.

"So, what do you think? Please, be honest.” He asked, stretching against the backrest and watching his friends take a seat on the sofas. “ You too, Michizou. I don't accept a positive comment just because he's your friend."

The first to speak was Gin. Dazai trusted her judgment and knew that she had noticed the possible harmony between Chuuya's voice and her own instrument. "I like his voice, but sometimes he went too fast."

“That's normal since he's a rapper” Akutagawa said thoughtfully while playing with a white lock of his hair “But he has potential. I can hear it."

"But he might mess up the rhythm during the song and break the harmony," Odasaku pointed out, approaching Dazai and sitting on the armrest. Eyes on him to see his reactions. "And you don't seem to like him."

In response Dazai opened his eyes and wrinkled the nose at his friend's disapproving glare.

“I know how to separate work from personal judgement, Odasaku. Anyway, I don't think pace will be a big problem.” Everyone looked at the leader as if he were a different person. The ability to follow the others' instruments was a key trait that he had insisted on. Akutagawa had had to undergo hours of lessons to get to fully satisfy his needs.

“Did you notice how he corrected the tempo during the chorus earlier? Singing acapella isn't easy in itself, but he realized he was wrong just by looking at my reaction.” Defending mistakes like that was hurting Dazai's pride. “In my opinion it would be enough for someone to warn him if he goes too fast so that he can adapt himself to us.”

“Are you saying you want to train him?” Tachihara asked, visibly surprised.

"I'm saying that I can make an exception since it's for a radio recording and no one will notice if anyone touches him or gives him a warning look.” The man sighed as the four nodded. They had less than a week before the broadcast and there was no time to find a more qualified singer, but they could always rehearse with Chuuya incessantly.

“So we are all okay with this?” Odasaku asked and, when everyone nodded, he walked out of the room to call Chuuya inside again. When he arrived Dazai swore to see agitation behind the tough-guy mask as he played with the red hair clip that wasn't there before.

"So?" He asked after a few seconds of silence, looking over everyone. Particularly on his friend who tried to hold back his enthusiasm. "If you don't find me suitable, tell me right now that I have something else to d-"

“You're in, Chu!” Tachihara yelled, going to squeeze his friend tightly in his arms and lifting him up. In response he got insults from Chuuya for the strength with which he was squeezing him and sighs from the rest of the members who wanted to build at least some suspense before revealing it.

“What the fuck are you talking about? Are you serious?” He asked surprised as Tachihara set him down, still keeping an arm around his shoulders. Those two must have been really close if Chuuya allowed him to be so clingy without getting annoyed.

“We thought about it a lot. You aren't perfect, but with a week of rehearsals we should be able to work well for the performance.” Chuuya's attention went to Dazai when he spoke. He nodded without complaining.

“Obviously the last word is up to you. We know it's very different from underground rap so if you don't feel like it you can back out.” Odasaku approached, lowering his gaze to look into the other's eyes. Eyes that were full of defiance.

“I came here because a friend asked me for a favor. For once I can even sing for a stupid radio show if needed, but remember-” he turned to Dazai “-I won't do it again.”

He laughed, getting up from the chair and approaching. Once facing the other he dropped to his height. "Very well because I already have enough of you."

Chuuya clenched his fists. "Bastard."

“We rehearse every afternoon. I hope you aren't busy or it will be a problem."

"I have the morning shift at work this week." Chuuya backed away and their staring contest ended with the taller one winning. Dazai smiled and straightened up, satisfied.

“We'll see you tomorrow then. We start at one pm so don't be late.”

♫

When Chuuya set foot in his apartment it was already evening. He'd left the agency after discussing some terms with that manager and signing papers, only to be swallowed up in the throng of people crowding the sidewalks and bus stations. For once that Chuuya had chosen not to take the motorbike to avoid the annoying traffic that blocked the streets during rush hour.

After all, that area was one of the busiest in Tokyo and in the evening you could risk staying still for half an hour or more. Chuuya's idea, though, didn't stop him from making an awkward ride on the subway that he hadn't used since high school.

"I was reporting you missing." Albatross said from the living room as soon as he heard the front door close. "And in the same city you've lived in since you were born."

Chuuya laughed in response, taking off his boots and throwing himself on the sofa next to his friend. He seemed too focused on the video game in front of him so Chuuya took the opportunity to steal a slice of pizza from the carton on the table.

"So? Are you a singer now?” Albatross asked after cheering about a kill on an enemy zombie. The screen filled with black and red blood blocked the view of the corpse or the player itself. Chuuya wrinkled his nose at the teasing tone and kicked him on the naked side.

“They took me, but I'm not a singer! I only do it because a friend I care about asked me to.” He mumbled.

"I know, I know. It's just funny when you get angry. You kick like a baby.” The blond laughed, receiving a kick in the ribs “Ah! Fuck, Chuuya!”

“Maybe you'll learn! You are so annoying."

"You always say that, but we've been friends for years and you're still here enjoying my hot tub." Albatross switched off the joystick and the TV, turning to give his full attention to Chuuya and let him talk without being distracted by another zombie. Having accomplished that gesture, however, he also realized the incriminating act. "Fucking thief!"

Chuuya laughed with still a piece of the slice in his hand before eating it all. Another kick, more like a playful push to annoy him, was given to his friend. “You chose to live with this thief.”

“And I regret it every da- Don't you dare!” He yelled, perching on the armrest next to him when Chuuya tried to hit him again. “At least tell me about what happened! You know I love gossip about famous people and that idiot Tachihara never tells me anything."

“Perhaps because between you, Lip and Doc I don't know who would be more capable of creating a media scandal? I'm not surprised that he stopped."

When he had just joined the band Tachihara did nothing else but talk about his new job and how the members - who until a few months before seemed unattainable to him - were. All that without going into details that would have made him violate the confidentiality agreement. The same one that Chuuya had also signed not less than an hour before.

Over time, however, the redhead avoided even mentioning the subject and even Chuuya and Albatross forgot that they had a world star as a friend. After all, it was hard to see him as someone so unattainable after having known him for years and knowing how dumb he could be.

“They're nothing much.” Chuuya commented, shrugging. “They're nice and clearly desperate to find a singer in time. Even their manager is okay.” As he spoke his mind traveled to each member, remembering Odasaku's kind words or the smile that girl had given him after they announced the success of the audition. None of them seemed as arrogant or conceited as he imagined them to be, except-

“Oh oh. I know that look.” Albatross smiled so feverish that he got off the armrest and leaned towards his best friend. “Which one of them pissed you off? That Dazai?”

“He didn't piss me off.” Chuuya muttered, hugging his knees to be more comfortable. “He's just a snotty guy who thinks he's superior to anyone because he works under a big label and has fans all around the world.”

“You look envious. I wish I had girls swooning over me all over the world, too.” Albatross sighed dreamily.

“He told me he doesn't believe me worthy of his stupid band because I'm a rapper, 'Tross.”

"Wow, that sucks. And you didn't punch him? I'm surprised." He laughed, grabbing his friend's calf to save himself from another kick.

"I can control my anger." He lied. "Just the idea of seeing him every day for a whole week makes me sick."

"Everyday? So I'll only see you in the evening?! I'm gonna be the caring husband cooking for his bossy wi- Chuuya! Stop kicking!"

The rest of the night passed as usual between food and video games, while Albatross tried to distract his friend from the amount of working hours he will have to face starting the next day. They stood up until 2a.m. and Chuuya bitterly regretted it when the alarm went off just three hours later.

Fresh out of PM Labels – and after lying to Dazai about his shifts – he had asked his fellow bartender if she had trouble swapping shifts and both her and the boss agreed. That's why Chuuya had to wake up at five in the morning to open the café.

He didn't mind working there, even if it was quiet and completely opposite to his lifestyle. Most of their clients were regulars, so knowing both the orders and the customers made it easier. Less pleasant was having to wake up early in the morning.

The motorbike's engine rumbled in the silent street of his neighborhood as he turned it on. The streets weren't empty, but neither busy as they would be during the day. To keep him company there were a few cars and workers aboard their big trucks. Arrived at the bar he parked in the reserved spot and then took the keys to raise the shutter and enter.

It took him an hour to prepare the counter for the opening while he was washing the fruit, arranging the cups and glasses or setting up the showcase of pastries and croissants. Between many yawns the bar opened and with it the first customer arrived.

"Melville-san, good morning" Chuuya smiled. "The usual, right?"

The old man nodded, sitting down at the counter while Chuuya turned to take a cup and prepare the coffee.

Although it was just after 7am, that man was as always ready to cross the threshold with his elegant suit and the perfectly groomed white bear. He sat down and ordered his usual coffee and the apple pie he loved so much.

"You're back, kid. I thought Louisa was still there for this week." He said while reading the front page of the newspaper.

“She was suppose to, but I had to ask for a shift change for personal reasons. You'll have to drink my coffee for a few days, Sir.” Chuuya laughed, setting down the two plates in front of the man who smiled back.

“Oh dear, I would never complain about you.” he smelled the aroma of coffee. “But young Louisa's coffee is unbeatable."

Chuuya had alway been a decidedly touchy person and he hated that anyone was better than him at anything that interested him. It often happened that he would get angry if someone criticized his way of rapping or living, but he knew he couldn't beat Louisa about coffee.

His colleague wasn't given to interacting with customers and she was always in her own world, but where she caved in her presence she excelled at coffee. even Chuuya could tell it given the amount that he had drunk in his life.

Chuuya, who had instead a more outgoing personality, was often assigned the afternoon shift and his job was to attract as many clients as possible.

“Good morning, Melville-san. Chuuya-kun.” He was so distracted by his own thoughts that he didn't even realize his boss came in. The woman was dressed in comfortable clothes and her hair was tied back. Her lip gloss gleamed under the white lights.

“Good morning to you, Kouyou.” Melville answered and Chuuya did the same while he turned to prepare the soy cappuccino that the woman drank every morning. In a few minutes it was served.

"Thank you, Chuuya." Kouyou smiled at him. "Just think that Melville was accusing me of being a bad boss for making you work so early."

“You misinterpret my words as always, ma'am.” The man laughed as he reached into his wallet to pay.

“Actually, I too was pleasantly surprised by the request. Switching roles could be good for both of you.” She looked at Chuuya as she wiped the cream off her lips with a napkin.

"Yeah, sorry to warn you so late. Sudden commitments.” Chuuya muttered, making the receipt and handing it to the customer. Kouyou simply waved her hand in response and the conversation ended there.

The morning went on as scheduled with regulars at every possible hour and the rush hour at nine. Chuuya spent his downtime cleaning or having a chit-chat with whoever was at the counter.

Loiusa's punctuality allowed him to quickly change out of his uniform and hit the freeway towards downtown. He had just half an hour to arrive on time without running into traffic. And what's more, he still hadn't eat anything from last night's slice of pizza. After only ten minutes the motorbike was parked at the base of the imposing buildings.

Odasaku had provided him an employee pass to avoid the normal procedures, so when he came in with his helmet in one hand and the badge in the other, it didn't take him long to pass the checks that normally would have cost him hours. Remembering the floor hadn't been a problem, but he couldn't say the same about the room number.

PM Labels gave no names to the rooms in its building, save for important offices like the boss', but numbers and doors all identical. When Chuuya reached the 27th floor he spent a good ten minutes trying to remember the number on the nameplate without having to knock on every single door.

“Nakahara?” To come to his rescue was the voice of the girl who yesterday was in the rehearsal room with him and the others. She was stepping off the elevator with two coffee cups and she moved her head to remove the strands of hair that ended up on her face. The only two free from the high ponytail she had.

“You're the girl from yesterday.” Chuuya said, approaching her.

“Gin.” She smiled “Need some help? I bet you can't find the room."

Having been discovered so quickly made a wave of embarrassment and annoyance flared up in Chuuya's body, but he forced himself to nod. After all, it was pretty obvious that was the reason since he stood in the middle of the hallway like an idiot.

Gin then started walking towards the end of it, make small talks.

"Don't worry. It took me weeks to get my bearings here. If you want advice write everything down on your notes so you don't risk forgetting.” She looked down at Chuuya and winked at him. She then stopped in front of the door marked as 14b and entered, announcing their presence. “Y'all! I found a little stray!”

“Do you have my coffee, too?” Akutagawa asked, then grinning at his sister when the cup was passed to him. He took a sip and greeted Chuuya with a nod, before went back talking to Gin.

“Black like your soul." She said, going to sit on the sofa and making herself comfortable.

Chuuya meanwhile closed the door behind him and put down his helmet, looking around. There were the same people present in the room as the other day: Tachihara was fixing the drums; the brothers talked on the couch; Odasaku was typing something on his phone and Dazai- Dazai wasn't there.

"Chuuya, hey!" Odasaku exclaimed, putting away his phone with a sigh and went closer, inviting him to take a sit. Within seconds the boy's butt was sinking into the softest cushions he ever sitting on. “Sorry, technical problems. Dazai and I have thought about a little plan for you. Today we want to focus on your voice to understand how to adapt it to our style.”

And while he was talking he reached for his phone again. A quick glance at the notifications was enough to make him sigh loudly.

“It's none of my business, but…Is something wrong?” The man looked down at him and shook his head, offering a smile.

"Don't worry. I wanted to wait for Osamu before going down, but he is late and he doesn't answer my texts or calls as always.” Odasaku's revelation only increased Chuuya's disgust and anger towards that man. He was actually working with an idiot who had explicitly told him not to be late and he was the first to be? If Chuuya had known, he would have stopped for at least get something to eat on the way.

That stupid fucking spoiled idiot...

“But someone is waiting for us, so let's go. He will join us there.” Odasaku stood up and Chuuya did the same, abandoning – in spite of him – the comfortable sofa.

While the other briefed the band members on their alternating schedule and gave them tips for solo rehearsals, Chuuya went to get the helmet. If he was right by the end of the day he wouldn't be returning to that room.

When Odasaku told him he was ready to go, Chuuya greeted the others and went to the door to open it and go out. Just then, however, someone else did and the two of them clashed. His figure was decidedly taller, so much that Chuuya reached just below his shoulder and his face was at his chest level.

When Chuuya looked up he discovered that it was Dazai who had opened the door.

“Tsk. Watch where you go, idiot.” He said, stepping back and crossing his arms.

Dazai smiled cheekily and, in the same position as Chuuya, leaned against the door jamb with one shoulder. He looked down on Chuuya, teasing him without saying a word.

“I was still. It's you who should be watching where you put your feet, dwarf.”

The phrase and the nickname in particular forced Chuuya to clench his fists to not hit him right there and then. In response, he moved forward and stormed out of the room, bumping his shoulder.

As he walked to the elevator he heard the two men whispering behind him. Odasaku was scolding Dazai, but he only answered with contented murmurs and faint laughter. Even when they entered the elevator and Chuuya stood behind them, leaning against the wall, the two didn't stop.

“We are also late. You should really learn to arrive on time.”

“Yah, Odasaku. You're talking just like Kunikida. Are you guys spending too much time together or it is a manager's thing?” Dazai laughed, stretching and putting his hands behind the head.

“And then you don't have to worry. Hiroko is so in love with me that she'll forgive a few minutes late.”

"In love? But if she was going to report yo-"

“Chuuya!” Dazai interrupted him, turning to the boy. He was so silent that he almost didn't seem to be there and Odasaku had, in fact, almost forgotten that he was there."Why are you so quiet? Did the cat at-"

“It's Nakahara for you.” Dazai was repaid in kind by the newcomer's cold and harsh voice. Dazai's smile – albeit fake – dropped and he looked down at the other again.

"Fine. Nakahara.”

“Yes, Dazai?” It was his turn to smile cheekily. His eyes seemed to sparkle with that small victory. Annoying the man was more fun than he expected.

“I really hope you aren't a waste of time.”

The doors opened and the three walked out with Odasaku and Dazai leading the way through the many numbered black doors.

Chuuya was already hating the facility just for that. Who had been the designer of this bullshit? He deserves jail time and two kicks in the teeth.

The door they knocked on revealed the figure of a woman. She looks young and dressed in an elegant suit, but her beauty was eroded by the angry, annoyed expression on her face.

“Thirteen minutes. If you think I have the time to bide yours then you better find another vocal coach, gentlemen. I haven't seen your faces since Gin Akutagawa and I was very happy about it.” The woman exuded a commanding aura as she watched Odasaku and Dazai. Her expression hardened on him in particular. Her black eyes then rested on Chuuya and she looked at him intently like if she's studying him.

“Did you really take a teenager? Did he at least finish high school?” She said, raising an eyebrow.

“Ah?! I'm twenty!" He snapped loudly and the woman blinked a couple of times, surprised.

“My apologies, then. You seem to have a nice high voice. Let's see how we can make the most of it.” She smiled and invited him inside.

The room was strangely neutral. The walls were beige and the white curtains allowed the light to shine through, along with the dim lights on the ceiling. There was a black piano in a corner and a white sofa against the opposite wall.

“I'm Hiroko. I'll be your vocal coach for today and the next days.” She said, interrupting the click of her heels on the hardwood floor to stop in the center of the room. Chuuya stopped with her and the others went to sit on the sofa.

“Sakanosuke has already informed me. I've never worked with a rapper before. I think it's right that you know.” Her voice was as composed as her figure stood upright and with hands behind her back. “We'll start by listening to your voice with the piano melody and then work on a possible improvement.”

When Chuuya nodded, Hiroko went to sit on the stool, playing the first notes of a song. "Do you know this?"

“Who doesn't know this song?” He giggled and Hiroko cracked a smile, nodding.

"Very well. Now let's do a little warm-up and then we can start.”

The warm-up phase, as embarrassing as it was for Chuuya, didn't last long. Hiroko made him repeat vowels in different rhythms to each other, humming while holding his tongue between his teeth to release the tension on it. A few times she had intervened to correct him, but in the end Chuuya hadn't been as bad as she had thought.

"Very good. You have to do this every day to warm up your voice. It would be better to do it before arriving at the studio so that you can start with the lesson immediately.” Hiroko said, then handing him a bottle of water. Chuuya gladly took it and while he drank, he glanced at Dazai and Odasaku on the loveseat. The dark-haired man was looking at him, moving his gaze between him and the woman, while the other was whispering something in his ear.

“Okay, we can proceed. The best you can offer me, please.” The notes of one of the most famous japanese songs in history started to play in the room. Hiroko played it perfectly, not even having to look where she put her fingers. Her gaze was on Chuuya as he sang. His voice was better thanks to the warm up and his throat didn't hurt, but he felt stiff. He tapped his foot while Hiroko continued to play and give him advice.

“Don't sing from your throat or your voice will sound excessively hoarse.” She said and stood up to correct his posture. His slightly hunched back straightened and his chest expanded. With a single breath he felt the air flood his lungs.

“Head up and chest out. I don't even have to hear you catch your breath.” She commented sternly and then sit back on her stool.

“I understood what your strengths and weaknesses are. Your hoarse voice is excellent, but you need to improve it in the treble phase.”

"It can be done?" Chuuya asked, taking a sip of water due to the discomfort in his throat from repeating the song several times. Hiroko nodded and answered him with a softer expression on her face.

"Of course yes. It will be a little difficult, but you have the skills to do it. Now let's try the part that introduces the high note," as a demonstration she played the notes. " But you don't have to say the words. Just make the lines like you're humming"

"Like this?" Chuuya tried, repeating the noise several times, trying to follow the rhythm.

“Help yourself with your finger. You start low and slowly get up, raise your voice too. Watch me.” Hiroko repeated the same sounds, raising her voice as his finger lifts. Chuuya nodded, having understood and they got back into position to continue trying.

Across the room, sitting with his legs apart and elbows resting on his knees there was Dazai. He was listening carefully to Chuuya's lesson and the various advice that the woman was giving him. In his early months at the label, he had signed up for singing lessons too, though not with Hiroko. The girl had just arrived when she had to teach Gin, enduring Dazai's periodic late arrivals.

As he listened, Dazai could already hear an improvement in Chuuya's voice, albeit a slight one. He quickly figured out his mistakes and made them better just as quickly. Maybe in less than three days he'd be able to guide himself and start working with the others on the actual song. Dazai was genuinely amazed.

In the world of entertainment he had met rappers from all over the world. Some, like those who sang in kpop bands, were also able to sing, but none of them were good enough to satisfy his taste. In fact, once during their Chicago stop on their world tour, his eardrums almost burst when he heard a famous rapper try to sing a high note. So why did Chuuya seem to succeed? How could someone without the slightest musical knowledge and bawling words in abandoned buildings in the midst of smoke be able to sing better than people trained for years? It was incredible in some ways.

The lesson continued for over two hour and Odasaku at one point had to get up and leave for a sudden meeting with one of his minor clients. Before leaving, however, he had made Dazai promise to behave and not mess with Chuuya since they were alone.

Dazai snorted at the request, but nodded promising.

“Okay, I'd say that's enough for today. See you tomorrow at the same time and I want you on time. Got it, Dazai? A minute late and I won't let you in.” Hiroko said, pointing a finger at the man who giggled.

“You are always so cruel. Accepting my outing to dinner might change your opinion about me.” He said as he stood up and approached them with hands in the pockets. The rolled up sleeves of his shirt showed off the bandages on his arms.

“It will never happen. Now go out that I have more lessons to prepare.” She pointed at the door and greeted Chuuya with a smile and a pat on the back, before returning to the piano and starting to play it.

The two then remained alone in the hallway in silence.

“If you have to say something, just do it. I'm hungry and I don't have time to waste with you.” Chuuya cut in coldly, turning to Dazai who looked down at him.

“How was the lesson?”

"Embarrassing." Chuuya said. Dazai simply nodded and silence fell between the two again. They walked side by side and even the elevator ride was silent until Dazai spoke.

“There's a café a couple blocks away.” He said, watching the numbers drop towards zero on the red display. Chuuya raised an eyebrow at him. “You said you were hungry. They make great sandwiches."

“Oh, yeah” Chuuya whispered, surprised by the sudden exit or that Dazai had actually listened to him before. “Thanks, but I already have something ready at home. You can leave me the name for the next few days if you don't mind.”

“Give me your phone then.” It almost sounded like an order while he held out his open palm, waiting. Chuuya seemed quite reluctant, but after a few seconds he took his phone out of his pocket and gave it to him, unlocked.

"It's for work, of course." Dazai commented as he entered his contact and sending himself a message. "If you have any problems with schedules or anything text me. Odasaku has a lot of people looking for him and he might forget to reply or not see the texts at all.”

"And you?" chuckled Chuuya “Aren't you sought, too? You are super famous after all.”

“Oh I am, but I archived almost all the chats. I only keep the band members and Odasaku in the main ones. Usually I only get texts from our manager so I hope I don't see too many of yours.” He chuckled too.

“I can also text to Tachihara if I have problems with the schedule. It wasn't necessary to give me your number.” Chuuya wanted to keep his tone tough, but it was difficult. He disliked Dazai in many ways but at moment he wasn't doing anything wrong after all. Indeed, he seemed almost available.

“You're right, but he should still text me anyway. Text directly to me to do it sooner.” Chuuya snorted, but then nodded in sympathy.

"Just work?" He asked.

“Just work.” Dazai replied.

"If you write to me for anything else I won't spare myself to kick your ass this time."

“Just the idea of talking too much to you gives me hives, Nakahara.”

"Perfect." Chuuya cut it short.

“Wonderful.” Dazai did the same.

The elevator doors opened and Chuuya was the first out. He waved goodbye and then walked past the reception, exiting the facility. The sun was still high and warm in the sky as he put on his helmet and got on the bike.

Dazai meanwhile had just left and looked at Chuuya, until he darted off down the street.

“I don't like that guy at all.”

Chapter Text

For the next couple of days Chuuya's routine stayed the same. In the morning he worked his shift at the café, in the afternoon he spent hours rehearsing in Hiroko's studio and in the evening he had dinner with Albatross and enjoyed his company.

Having memorized both the floor and the room in which Hiroko worked Chuuya no longer felt the need to be accompanied or to wait for Dazai's late-ass. On the second day, as soon as he passed the checks, he was immediately on the way to his destination.

Luckily he did that since Dazai showed up about an hour later when the lesson was about to end. Chuuya couldn't read Hiroko's face, but if she was angry then she didn't show it.

After all, Dazai's presence wasn't mandatory, such as Odasaku's who had preferred to occupy those hours to focus on something else. Dazai, on the other hand, stayed and monitored his evolution and – according to Chuuya – embarrassing voice exercises, while he sipped coffee on the sofa in rigid silence.

“Stop.” The woman said with her palm raised towards Chuuya. They were in the middle of the song with Hiroko sitting at the piano and Chuuya standing beside her. Silence fell immediately with only the memories of the melody playing in their mind. “Your voice is fine,” she continued, thoughtfully. The hand brought to scratch her chin. “You warmed up like I told you. I'm glad."

She said like that wasn't perhaps one of the most embarrassing thing Chuuya had ever done. Since he didn't have the opportunity to take a break between work and rehearsals, he had to warmed up his voice conveniently hidden in the staff bathroom or warehouse, away from the Kouyou or customers' ears. Explaining why he did that to his boss, no matter how close they were, would have been embarrassing as hell for him.

"Yeah. My throat also hurts less as I try the treble now.” He replied and Hiroko nodded contentedly, then glancing at Dazai for the first time since they had entered together. The man had been absent for a moment to refill his cup of coffee.

Just by looking at it Chuuya realized how much he needed some cafaine. Working, rehearsing and listening to Albatross complain and gossip all night was driving him to exhaustion not counting the missed lunches. He'd only been doing it for three days, but it felt like forever to him.

“It depends on him. What do you think, Nakahara?” It was Dazai that brought him out of his thoughts. Chuuya had to blink a couple of times to find the train of speech.

“Huh? Sorry, I wasn't following” he muttered and got a long look from the other who then sighed.

“We'll take that as a yes. Thank you for this favor, Hiroko,” Dazai commented and Hiroko shook her head in response.

“I get paid for this,” she said while Chuuya cursed Dazai, being ignored by both of them.

“Oi, you bastard! I told you you can't choose for me. Repeat what you said!" He growled angrily, but Dazai still didn't listen, finishing his coffee in small sips. The one that calm Chuuya's anger was Hiroko who ran a hand through his hair.

“Your lessons with me are over, Chuuya. That was what we were talking about. You would have known it if you hadn't been in the clouds like you often do” the soft gestures were in contrast with the hard tone that came out of her voice.

Done? Already? Had he really improved in such a short time to satisfy someone as strict as Hiroko?

“Don't let your head grow up” forget it. “In some parts you still look like a hen”

“Hiroko?!” Chuuya exclaimed, making the woman laugh heartily.

“I don't accept complaints. Now go and rest. You clearly need it, boy"

And after saying goodbye Chuuya took his things and turned towards the door where Dazai was waiting for him. They walked the corridor in silence as in the previous three days and once in the elevator Chuuya was able to lean against the wall and close his eyes.

“Did you come with that instrument of death of yours?” Dazai broke the silence, earning a look from the other who had opened one eye.

“If you mean my bike, no. I've the car today. Why?" He asked suspiciously, crossing his arms.

"Perfect!" Dazai exclaimed, clapping his hands together “Then you can take us to a place”

“What?!” Chuuya exclaimed, this time with both eyes open and bulging. Was the lack of sleep driving him crazy yet?

“You heard right,” he cut him off before he could ask again or yell at him.

“And why the fuck should I be your chauffeur?” Chuuya grabbed him by the high collar of his turtleneck, lowering him towards himself.

“Because you earn more than me. Now can you ditch me, thanks? You know people might misunderstand if the doors opened right now” The cold tone prevented that sentence from being a bad attempt at flirting. Chuuya wrinkled his nose at the thought and let him go.

“The only place I'd take you is a fucking graveyard.” Chuuya sighed and stepped out of the elevator first when they reached the ground floor. Dazai, behind him, was following him with his hands in the pockets. “I didn't say yes. Go away!"

“But I don't accept a no, dwarf.” He laughed and when they reached the car Dazai couldn't help but be surprised. He expected a bartender like Chuuya to have a car that matched his meager salary, but this was a car modified from engine to wheels

“Calm your neurons, idiot. It's my best friend's car” Chuuya got in and Dazai did the same. He hadn't been invited and Chuuya hadn't said yes, but when he got into the other on didn't seem to complain. He simply started the engine and lowered the radio left high from the previous evening.

“Lead me the way, at least” he muttered as they stopped at the traffic light. Dazai was bobbing his head to the music playing while he looked out the window. He turned to Chuuya and looked at him for a few seconds before returning to the road.

"Calm down. I'll tell you when you have to turn” he muttered and the light turned green again. They went straight for a few hundred yards before Dazai told him to turn left. The journey didn't last long from that moment. Just long enough to make a couple of turns until Dazai made him park in front of a bar. Already from the outside it seemed full with the tables all occupied by people of all ages.

"A bar?" Chuuya raised an eyebrow at Dazai while he turned off the car and got out.

"It's the one I advised you the other day" the man commented before crossing the street and entering the structure, making his way towards a free table. Chuuya still confused by the whole situation just followed him and sat down on the sofa in front of him.

“You can stop looking at me like that.” Dazai spoke after a few seconds of silence, looking up from the list he was boredly consulting. After all, he already knew what to get.

"Are you drunk?" Chuuya asked, making Dazai giggle and he shook his head.

“I'm not. I just take care of my band members even if they are temporary, rough and rude”

"I have yet to understand your negative judgment towards me" he spat harshly, then stealing the list from the other's hands and peering through the options.

“Well, you don't treat me kindly either after all.” Dazai stretched, smearing himself against the back of the sofa. Chuuya just rolled his eyes and pointed to a sandwich and some water.

"You pay. Now go order, come on”

“Oh? Is the carrot giving order now?” Dazai laughed and raised his hands when Chuuya glared at him.

“Go before I leave you stranded here and convince everyone else in the band not to pick you up by writing to Odasaku that you have annoyed me again.” Chuuya's comment made him shut up and turned the satisfied grin on his face into a straight line. He had promised and if Odasaku found out that he hadn't kept his word he wouldn't be happy.

This little bastard...

Dazai quickly read his order and then stood up, not failing to glare at the other's satisfied face. God, he wanted to punch him.

“Good morning Dazai. The usual?" he bartender smiled when he recognized him. For an instant Dazai thought of taking revenge, but a wrong order would have been too childish and decidedly unsatisfying. He needed something bigger to really annoy Chuuya and enjoy the defeated and enraged look on his face.

“Yeah and a sandwich with a glass of water too, please”

It was going to be another four very long days.

_______________

“So... Do you want to tell me the real reason you brought me here? You look familiar in this place.” Talking again since Dazai returned to the table was Chuuya. His sandwich arrived shortly after despite the amount of customers in the shop and the boy couldn't help but hear the brief conversation between the waiter and Dazai.

"I am. I always come here after all” Dazai in the meantime had ordered yet another coffee of the day, feeling the caffeine being injected into his blood in addition to the one already present. He really needed it. “All of us in the band are regulars here. What is it that your little head can't understand?”

Chuuya raised an eyebrow at him, clearly annoyed, but didn't answer him for the moment. He just finished eating and then moved. And if Dazai could have spoken for him he would surely have chosen a more civilized path because Chuuya simply kicked him. One of his boots quickly and without warning reached Dazai's shin, making him almost scream and curse in pain.

“What the fuck is your problem?!” He exclaimed, turning some of the couples occupying nearby tables around. Some of them looked shocked, some worried, and still others were giggling. Although he was a public figure, regulars – as well as non – were now used to seeing him hanging around alone or with the band. They were a little eccentric, but the only one that stood out for the noise was Tachihara. Dazai was seen as the silent, handsome and unreachable one. So seeing him swear and yell while another guy laughed out loud with him, well… that was new.

“You seriously need to stop! Can no one ever tell you anything?! The man snorted, rubbing the affected area. He was making a point of staying further away from Chuuya to avoid the death traps he kept as his shoes.

“You can't tell me anything. Everything that comes out of your mouth is annoying and gives me a headache."

“Your mere existence makes me not want to get out of bed in the morning”

And the conversation went on with more bickering, until the barman interrupted them, coughing a couple of times to get their attention. After all Chuuya looked ready to lunge across the table and strangle his colleague.

“Dazai. Sir. Could you lower your voice, please? You are annoying other customers,” he said in a calm tone with a gentle smile on his face.

Those simple words reminded Chuuya that they were in a crowded, public place and not safe in Hiroko's studio or the company elevator. Looking around he saw how almost everyone was looking in their direction and he couldn't help but notice the phones pointed at them as well. He immediately felt embarrassment replace anger and sighed nodding and apologizing to the man. Dazai in front of him seemed to do the same, but without showing remorse or embarrassment for what happened. He also simply apologized to the customers and then leaned his elbows on the table, looking at Chuuya.

"I hate to admit it, but starting tomorrow you might not be as little known as you wanted to be" He said and that little was enough to make Chuuya forget about the embarrassment and go back to talking aloud.

“Ah?!”

_______________

The day after, unfortunately for Chuuya, Dazai's assumption turned out to be correct. At the begin of the day, partly due to the late alarm clock and sleep, Chuuya didn't even have access to the internet connection on his phone. He had spent the first two hours at the bar without checking his phone, until in a quiet moment he managed to pick it up. As soon as the connection turned on, his phone started receiving notifications after notifications. Some were from Dazai and Odasaku and others – far too many – were from flags and Tachihara.

Dude, what the fuck? - Albatross;

How do you know someone like Dazai Osamu exactly? - Pianoman

I thought I was still drunk from last night when I first saw him. What the fuck, Chu? - Tachihara.

The confusion visible on the redhead's face was immediately swept away when he, opening the social networks, found the name of the idiot first trending and under the hashtag it was full of posts with some of the videos and photos shot by the bar's customers. There were thousands of them and some were as outlandish and idiotic as possible.

"Are there people who think we're a couple?!" Chuuya nearly screamed, managing to stop the urge just before spinning half a bar at him. Kouyou looked up from her phone and looked at him curiously.

“Is something wrong, Chuuya?” She asked and the boy tried to pull himself together, shaking his head. He put the phone in his pocket and rubbed his hands on his apron, getting back to work as a customer had just entered.

The rest of the shift went no different than usual. The clientele remained the same and there were no freak accidents. After all, scrolling through social media a little more, no one seemed to know who he was. He wasn't a famous person and fortunately the companies he kept weren't interested in the kind of music produced by Dazai and his band. The chances of anyone revealing his identity or recognizing him were low.

Meanwhile he had also opened notifications from Odasaku and Dazai, sighing when a headache began to manifest itself. Dazai was showing off as usual, bragging that he was right as always. Odasaku instead simply wrote that they would discuss it in the afternoon and not to panic.

Things like that can happen. Don't panic or say anything to anyone if someone stops you. We'll talk more about it today at rehearsals - Odasaku.

How that man could be so calm at all times confused Chuuya. He had just created a scandal when his presence in the band was supposed to remain anonymous and he was acting like it was no big deal.

“Hey Louisa” Chuuya smiled at her colleague as she walked over to the counter, tugging her ponytail and cinching her apron around her waist. She smiled at him shyly and then stood next to him, leaning on the sink behind them “Since you're here then I'm going. See you tomorrow, okay?”

“Chuuya, wait.” The redhead immediately stopped when he was summoned and turned to the girl, waiting for her to continue “You know...I see a video today and there was a boy who is really sim-”

“Damn, how late it is! See you tomorrow, Lou!” Chuuya exclaimed, running towards the locker room to change leaving the girl in mid-sentence and pretending not to hear her when she tried to get his attention. Just thinking about that video and certain assumptions that he had read gave Chuuya goosebumps.

He couldn't think of anything else for the whole ride on the motorbike and in particular when he stopped the motorbike right in front of the offending bar. He still had ten minutes to get to the agency and he could have chosen another place to stop, but Chuuya had to prove to himself that he had nothing to hide.

Or also because he didn't know of any other nearby bars that made sandwiches as good as the one he ate yesterday. He had to offer Kouyou to integrate sandwiches and any lunches into the menu.

When Chuuya entered the place it wasn't crowded like yesterday and only a few people turned to look at him. Unfortunately for him the bartender was the same as yesterday and he seemed well aware of who he was when he turned and welcomed him, smiling.

“Same as yesterday, huh? You must have liked it,” he chuckled, looking up at Chuuya while he handed him the receipt.

"You can bet. One of the best sandwiches I've ever tasted.” Chuuya attempted a smile, feeling his back burn from the people around him. “About yesterday…”

“Oh, don't worry. I'm used to it by now” the boy laughed and turned to start preparing the order “But usually it's not Dazai that draw attention to himself. It was fun”

“It was embarrassing.”

"Points of view" the other shrugged, delivering Chuuya's lunch in a bag with some paper napkins "Surely you advertised my bar, thank you- ehm?"

“Chuuya”

“Chuuya!” he exclaimed, always keeping an acceptable tone of voice “I'm Sigma, anyway. Hope to see you around again"

Chuuya just smiled back and said goodbye, then walked down the bar and got some fresh air. He put the bag in his backpack and then got on the motorcycle, heading towards the building downtown. And, if by chance he had felt observed at the bar, in the corridors of the agency no one failed to look him up and down. Even those who hadn't even looked at him the day before turned around and tried in vain not to be noticed while muttered to their colleague or chuckled into the phone.

Only when the elevator doors closed and Chuuya was left alone could he really declare himself finished. His desire to remain in the shadows had vanished and it would take them a while to find out his name. He really hoped Sigma wasn't a gossip or he could end his life there.

“You should learn that it is rude to ignore messages from your love flame, Nakahara” The first person to greet him when he arrived in the studio was just the worst of the worst. Dazai was lying on the sofa with the phone in his hand and the usual crap-eating grin on his face.

“Quit that, asshole!” Chuuya huffed and pushed his legs away to sit down as well. The others hadn't arrived yet and strangely Dazai was early so Chuuya could afford to eat in peace.

“Someone liked the place I recommended”

Or maybe not.

“Can't you shut up for a second?”Chuuya huffed, feeling the headache return. Dazai didn't answer him, going back to playing the car game on his phone, resting his legs on Chuuya's for comfort. The boy, already tired and in a bad mood, simply let him do it and enjoyed the silence.

“I think I'm really still drunk from last night.” Tachihara's voice standing in the doorway, along with the rest of the band, made the two of them roll their eyes on the couch. Dazai greeted them with a quick wave of his hand and Chuuya did the same, pushing the other's legs away from his thighs.

“You seem to get along. I like it,” Odasaku commented, entering and sitting down on one of the poufs while everyone else did the same. After several complaints, Dazai sat up straight and closed the game app, entering social networks and placing the phone in the center of the table.

“We missed the scandal of the month. I was almost getting worried,” Akutagawa commented, getting a nudge from his sister.

"And for once it's not ab- Gin!" Tachihara continued, dodging the kick that the girl tried to give him for giving way to her brother. Meanwhile Chuuya looked at them more and more confused. They seemed too quiet for someone who was part of a public scandal.

"You're weird" he commented suddenly, interrupting the bickering between the three and earning bewildered looks from everyone present “Dazai and I are the center of attention around the world and you don't seem to care. I may have just ruined the fame of this idiot or the whole band!” The room was silent for a few seconds before Tachihara started laughing, then leaned towards his friend.

“Sorry Chu, but no one can beat my scandals” Tachihara said between laughter and everyone else nodded, sighing at just remembering the most insidious scandal ever faced by the band before

“This is a blessing in comparison, Chuuya” Odasaku started, looking at the boy and smiling at him sweetly “I know you wanted to stay in the shadows, but what you did was just advertising for Dazai and the band as a result. You have not ruined us, but the opposite.”

“A blessing? What will happen when someone says that your new singer is part of the underground?” That comment silenced everyone. In fact, most of them had forgotten about the double life of their new member and the possibility of having to face a scandal similar to Tachihara's one.

“You guys from Extasy are going to kill me one of these days!” Dazai snorted, throwing his head back on the sofa.

"If only you hadn't been an idiot by now you wouldn't have to worry!"

"Me?! You're the one who kicked me for nothing"

"Nothing?! You keep making your shitty jokes about my height. You're annoying” Chuuya snapped and Dazai didn't answer, huffing and crossing his arms.

“Okay, calm down everyone. If that ever happens we will simply tell the truth. The scandal won't last long since you'll only sing once with us" Odasaku spoke, massaging his temples with two fingers "Otherwise Ango could give us a hand, but I don't think there will be a need".

"It's curious how you are so interested in our image. Do you care so much about us?” Dazai chuckled, looking at Chuuya out of the corner of his eye before reaching for his phone again. He got comfortable with his back sinking into the soft pillows and started scrolling through various posts on his phone “Ew. Some people give their worst. Gross.”

The comment and the disgusted expression on his face were enough to keep Chuuya's curiosity on a leash and avoid pursuing the subject further.

“Unlike you I have no interest in ruining your life and especially your bandmates'” he huffed “But I also have a personal reason for not wanting to be recognized publicly and globally”

“Oh-oh. Does anyone have any seg-” Dazai tried to add more fuel to the fire, but was promptly interrupted by Tachihara who had already noticed how Chuuya's patience and nerves were wearing thin to the point of breaking.

“Wouldn't it be better to inform the boss of this situation as well? To see how to act” He asked and Odasaku rubbed his chin thoughtfully.

“Mori is a wise man. He already knows what's going on and if he hasn't called us into his office it's because he isn't deeming it necessary. For the moment let's act as usual and you two avoid arguing with open doors” he aimed his gaze at the two on the sofa “It would be even better if you didn't argue at all, but nevermind”

The matter was therefore abandoned there and preferred to start talking about the daily rehearsals for the recording which would take place in just four days. The plan for that afternoon was for everyone to rehearse together, allowing Chuuya to hear their style separately.

“It's important that you can blend in with the rest of the band. That's why today you'll just listen and tomorrow you'll start giving your best for us.” That day it was Dazai who illustrated the program. The idea of just having to sit around for hours listening didn't particularly drive Chuuya crazy. He almost wanted to go back to Hiroko and continue with the lessons.

“Do you have anything against it?” Gin asked this time, tilting her head to the side as she looked at Chuuya curiously. He didn't even realize he was letting his thoughts slip by the expression.

“No no, just – won't it be difficult to try in just three days then? Why can't we start today?”

“Because you've never heard how we play our instruments. Even for a professional it's difficult to harmonize without knowing the musician's style, let alone a beginner like you” Dazai replied and when Chuuya tried to retort he closed the conversation. He got up from the sofa and so did the other four, each going towards their own instruments.

Chuuya crossed his arms, impatient with the man's behavior and Odasaku chuckled as he took a seat next to him.

"You guys just can't go two seconds without getting on your nerves, can you? He joked, receiving a deep sigh from Chuuya who threw his head back over the edge of the loveseat.

"Tell him. He's been acting like a presumptuous idiot from the start. If he didn't act like an idiot, I wouldn't have any reason to quarrel with him” he cut short, then darting his gaze between the four member and observing them as they set up their instruments.

As if written in his destiny, his attention focused on Dazai. He sat and held the guitar on his thighs, touching the strings with his fingertips. When vibrated, a soft, gentle sound was produced for testing. While he checked the guitar his gaze was serious and focused. For the first time Chuuya noticed how sharp the man's jaw looked from the side or how many plasters he had stuck all over his fingers.

“He know there is such a thing called pick, right?” He whispered to Odasaku who took a moment to figure out who he was talking about, so used to Dazai's habits that he forgot about that feature.

“I've never seen him use a pick since we've known each other. There must be a reason, but he never told anyone. It made a little sense to see his fingers at first, but luckily he's started putting the Band-Aids on” he shrugged, returning to answering a few emails and massaging on his phone.

No one spoke again for another ten minutes or so, before a bang on the drum records attracted everyone's attention, almost making them jump. Behind it Tachihara looked decidedly satisfied.

“What snails you are! Come here, Chuuya. I'll be the first one you hear today, man!" He exclaimed and Chuuya was almost tempted to ignore him as the only revenge for having almost smashed his eardrum, but he just sighed in amusement and stood up.

“Do you know that I've already heard you play at least a dozen times? I know your style like the back of my hand by now.” He laughed and Tachihara shushed him, grabbing his wrist and urging him to come closer.

“Don't ruin my attempt to have you for five minutes. You always stay with Dazai” he whispered in his ear so as not to be heard by the others and Chuuya at that supposition felt his cheeks turn completely red. He really had to hold back not screaming again.

“You idiot” he commented and took a step away “Play and stop with this bullshit” Tachihara just laughed and then sat up and started playing. The rest of the room, after watching the little skit, went back to their tools until they were too ready.

For the next few hours Chuuya switched from one tool to another several times, avoiding Dazai as, every time he approached, the man told him to just come back later. The two brothers alone were both good – even if Chuuya definitely preferred Gin's style – but together they were practically perfect.

Finally it was six in the evening and not once the redhead had been able to hear Dazai plays. The man had never even mentioned starting to play, remaining for hours and hours checking the strings without ever taking his eyes off.

And he picked the worst time to start.

All the other five were in the doorway talking to each other ready to go home and enjoy a well deserved dinner. Chuuya felt that his head was about to explode and couldn't wait to go home to eat something and go to sleep. Not even Albatross would have been able to convince him to stay awake. Although it will be difficult thanks to the gossip of the relationship still hot and succulent. Everyone was ready except for Dazai who was still sitting watching the ropes.

“Okay, see you tomorrow then. Goodnight guys” Tachihara was the first to say goodbye and leave, followed by all the others. Chuuya was the least, but as soon as he took a step he was stopped by the other man.

“Nakahara” he looked up from his guitar and straight at Chuuya. They were left alone in the room. "Shall we try together?"

For a few moments there was silence and the two remained motionless. Chuuya still had his hand on the handle to be able to leave and Dazai kept looking at him, waiting for an answer.

“No.” Chuuya broke the silence.

"No?" Dazai narrowed his eyes, confused "You seemed insistent until a moment ago"

“Because it was rehearsals and my job was to listen to you play. I did my job, even giving me a terrible headache! You, on the other hand, spent four hours doing nothing and expect me to stay longer?!" He snapped, throwing his helmet on the sofa to have both hands free. He would have choked him. He felt it deep in his soul.

"Please?" he tried again always with the tone of voice that makes Chuuya want to punch him and leave him there alone in his own misery. But he forced himself to take a deep breath and move closer.

“I don't know what's wrong with you,” he began, arms crossed and a look that oozed hatred "But learn what the fuck is fucking respect, Dazai Osamu" he snapped before take again his helmet and walk towards the door with a firm step.

“You know Tachihara has a crush on you, right?” And that simple sentence was enough to make Chuuya freeze and replace his anger with another type of emotion. He turned to Dazai with a raised eyebrow. "He likes you"

To Dazai's surprise, the redhead burst out laughing. And it wasn't the usual nervous laugh he had, but a real loud laugh from having to hold his belly. The same of yesterday at the bar.

“Oh? What are you laughing at?"

“Tachihara and I have been friends for years. What makes you think he has a crush on me?” He chuckled, leaning back against the door and waiting for an answer that was not long in coming.

“He's always clinging to you and I see how he's been looking at me all day. The story of the scandal about us must have made him jealous” Dazai wrinkled his nose and Chuuya really had to keep from laughing on his face again.

“Or maybe it's because you don't like each other. Not everyone in the world loves you, idiot” Chuuya rolled his eyes and walked over to Dazai, continuing to speak “But let's say you're right. What should you care about?"

He stopped when they faced each other. Dazai still sitting and Chuuya looking into his eyes from above. Neither of them looked away.

“Only those with bad taste couldn't love me” Dazai tilted his head back slightly “And as a leader I would be happy to know if there could be tensions between two or more members of my band”

“Yeah sure. Too bad they already exist because I can't stand you and it seems to be reciprocated"

“You are momentary. Tachihara is not and I will have to deal with him for a long time. That's why I dare to argue with you and not with him” Dazai laughed and his laughter increased as Chuuya pushed him away, rolling his eyes.

“You jerk, quit that. Play that fucking guitar so I can go home" Chuuya walked away and sat on an armchair, waiting for Dazai to start "You'll continue until I decide to stay, so hurry up"

The dark-hair man smiled satisfied and plugged the plug into the amplifier. As soon as his fingers made contact with the strings the music began to play.

His style was decidedly more fluid and cleaner than the brothers' one and he moved as if music was in his veins. His eyes closed and his posture relaxed. In some places, however, it changed. He became slower and lower and for a moment to Chuuya it sounded like one of the songs Hiroko had asked him to learn. At that realization his voice moved without his permission and he began to hum, then increased the volume.

They weren't perfectly in sync at first. Chuuya was a second late and the guitar covered his voice. Dazai opened his eyes and pointed them at Chuuya's surprised that he had started singing. He slowed down the pace a little and Chuuya caught up with him, then raising his voice and making the timbre softer.

At the end of the song Chuuya rubbed his throat and Dazai stopped playing. He reached for a bottle of water and handed it to him. Chuuya gladly accepted it and while he drank a pleasant silence fell.

"So? How did it look to you?”

Perfect.

Dazai wrinkled his nose then took a deep breath “Not bad for a rapper, I guess”

“Yeah yeah” Chuuya stood up and turned to Dazai before reaching the door and exiting “I'll take that as a compliment. See you tomorrow, asshole"

Dazai watched the door close and sighed again. He was alone and could loosen his tense muscles and sink his back into the sofa. He had chosen to wait until everyone was finished in order to talk to Chuuya about the drummer's attitude and find out more, but in the end it was the rest that amazed him. He really didn't expect the boy to agree to stay beyond the established time or that he would even feel confident enough to start singing. He proves that he passed with flying colors because no one had ever been able to harmonize with Dazai so quickly and with the simple guidance of his gaze.

What the fuck is this guy? What is this strange feeling?

Dazai brooded on the strange heat for the rest of the evening, hoping the next day it would be gone.

Chapter Text

“Sol..la and do. Break. Mi...fa- damn!”

Dazai sighed at the off-key sound produced by the last note played. He was sure he had found a possible agreement, but this time too it was too sharp compared to what he had initially imagined.

Dazai found himself sitting on the couch with his acoustic guitar on his thighs, his back hunched over it, and various sheet music scattered across the coffee table and floor. The closed curtains left the room in the dark, but a dim light came from the lamp illuminated the only area that he needed.

Looking up at the wall clock, sighing at both the time and the annoying ticking that came back to assault his mind.

00:47. It was definitely later than he was used to stay awake in his house. Dazai wasn't someone who loved or managed to fall asleep early at night, but when he was alone and in the silence of his house he forced himself to do it so as not to let the thoughts run wild.
What disturbed him more than the silence, however, were the background noises of the city below him or of his own household appliances.

To combat that annoyance and the need to sleep he always invited someone from the band to spend the night in his apartment or break in theirs and slept there. That evening, however, everyone seemed to be busy and Dazai had even lost the desire to go to the bar next door, despite the pleasant company of the bartender. He decided to stay home and catch up on some of the sleep he'd lost over the past week, but the ticking of the clock in the living room was driving him crazy despite the door being closed.

Ten…twenty…thirty minutes later Dazai yanked the blankets aside, grabbed his guitar and some sheet music before walking towards the living room. He didn't turn off the clock, but rang on it so as not to hear it again. It was ten o'clock and from then on he never stopped playing and jotting down new song ideas.

"Fuck. Have I suddenly forgotten how to play?” He snapped, crumpling yet another sheet and throwing it on the ground along with the other discards. Exhausted and frustrated, he ran a hand over his face and fumbled with the pillows for the remote control.

Once the music was on, he left the guitar aside and went towards the kitchen to pour himself a generous glass of whisky. The first sip burned his throat, but eased the tension in his muscles and mind. He also went in front of the huge windows and pulled back the curtains, allowing the lights of the city and of the port in the distance to illuminate the living room, even if only slightly.

His apartment wasn't in the city center like the one Mori had given him and, although he had to walk further to work each day, he preferred it to the other. He didn't mind the traffic noise too much and it was high enough to admire the city on nights like these. He didn't spend too much time there and the only happy memories he had were nights spent with the band, but he felt it a little more his because he earned it. He'd put in years of effort, but he'd taken it and kinda hated himself for not making it quicker.

He shook his head at the thought and finished the whiskey in his glass, but before he could go and pour himself another, his cell phone's ringing overcame the music from the TV. Dazai's eyes widened in surprise and he ran to the bedroom where the phone was charging.

"Hello?!" He exclaimed without checking the name on the screen. Odasaku's voice greeted him on the other side with the buzz of people and cars in the background.

"You're still alive?" He chuckled, making his friend turn up his nose. Not that Odasaku could see it.

"Unfortunately. Do not play with me. I've been abandoned by y'all tonight, traitors"
He pouted and threw himself on the bed on his stomach to get comfortable.

“People have lives, you know,” he commented and it only made Dazai snort harder than before. Other than the usual bar chats and the occasional broom, he didn't talk to anyone outside the band members.

“You should make some friends besides us, 'Zai. It isn't good for you to hang out only with your co-workers."

“I asked Kunikida and he didn't accept either. And then I talk to Hiroko too!” He defended himself, placing the phone next to his head after putting on the speakerphone.

“They are always connected to work. You need to meet people outside our industry” Odasaku sighed and the background noise subsided as a sign that he had gotten into his car to go home “And you didn't ask everyone at all. Maybe Chuuya was free”

“I'm not asking out tha- him. He would just piss me off. I don't understand how you all don't see how annoying he is” Dazai said in a cold, detached tone. Odasaku's reaction, however, dropped that mask of irritability. “Hey! What are you laughing?!"

“Sorry, but it's quite funny given the things that you have done for him since he joined us”

"Then first of all he didn't join us" He mimicked the word chosen by his friend "And then I don't have the slightest idea what you're saying, Odasaku."

“You accepted him even though you didn't like him; you didn't sleep to prepare a suitable program for him; you followed his singing lessons even though Hiroko wanted to kick you out, plus you have a scandal with him.”

“I did everything for the well-being of the band and for the broadcast. Besides, I shouldn't go out with him just because of the scandal. If they saw us together and alone who knows what they might think.” And when Odasaku didn't answer, Dazai could say he won the discussion.

“I can agree with you about the scandal, but you should really get to know Chuuya. He's nice and him and Gin have already bonded” He chuckled and Dazai sat up abruptly.

“What do you mean they've already bonded?! When?"

“Well tonight the two of them and Tachihara were going out. I think there was also another frie- Dazai?”

"Gin betrayed me" Dazai whispered, throwing himself back on the bed, but in the starfish position to occupy the whole bed. Eyes fixed on the ceiling.
"Come on. Stop it" Odasaku smiled before becoming serious again "Do you want me to come there with you?"

For a few moments there was silence between them, but finally Dazai shook his head and brought his lips to the phone to be heard.

"No, just go home. I'll have another glass and then I'll go to sleep too"

"You sure?" He asked again to confirm. The clear concern in his voice made Dazai smile.

"Yeah yeah. I'll call you if I need to, okay? 'Night"

And after a few more seconds of reassurances and goodbyes the call ended, plunging the apartment back into silence. Instead, Dazai's mind was full of thoughts and all were directed to one person: Chuuya.

The way that little boy seemed to intrude into every aspect of Dazai's life was as unbelievable as it was annoying. There wasn't a day when someone didn't name him and moreover he couldn't open a social network without seeing posts about their hypothetical relationship. Dazai shivered at the very idea.

There's no way someone like him would ever date someone like Chuuya. That boy was just too much. Too noisy, too short-tempered, too colourful. God, he occasionally had so many colors up with those clips that it blinded everyone in the room.

He undoubtedly has talent- Dazai stopped to think, still lying star-shaped on the bed and staring at the floor. - but I'd rather die than see him again after this Sunday.

And with the continued thought of Chuuya, Dazai found himself not paying attention to the ticking of the clock or the fact that he had left both the television and the lamp on in the living room. He fell asleep without realizing it when the clock struck 1.30 a.m.

♫

“Okay! Wait a moment!" Lippman exclaimed, as he leaned over from his stool to look at Chuuya “So you sing in a band and you didn't tell us?!”

“Lip, you're too close,” Chuuya said calmly, sucking some of his drink through the straw, before placing two fingers on his friend's forehead and pushing him away.

“I feel betrayed. You listened to Tachihara, but not to my proposal to become an actors duo” The man pouted, then getting back next to Pianoman. Tachihara, who sat between Gin and Chuuya laughed at the scene.

“Sorry, but I stole him from you” he stuck his tongue out at the rest of The Flags who gasped indignantly – or rather Doc, Lip and Albatross did. The other two just held back a smile and shook their heads.

"I knew it from the start! Do you see how I am the most important of our group?” Albatross exclaimed, putting an arm around the redhead's shoulders and ruffling his hair with the hand free from the drink.

In response he got a shove and some insults. "You seriously need to learn what personal space is, you jerks" Chuuya snapped, adjusting his hair and putting the colored clips back in place.

“Oh come on! Don't play tough that we all know you're happy to be here with us” Pianoman laughed, but he was ignored for the last few sips of the strawberry drink. “And no offense 'Tross, but I think it's pretty obvious that you knew. It would be worrying even for you not to notice your roommate's absence until the evening."

“You're just jealous” the blond commented and then he leaned over the counter to attract the attention of the bartender and order something again “How nice that I don't have to drive. Tachi, I might love you just for the ride."

The other boy choked at that sudden sentence, stopping only when Gin gave him a few hard blows on the back. He caught his breath as she giggled, covering her mouth with a hand.

“jeez man. Don't die on me."

“I have to go pee” Chuuya declared “Can someone order for me in the meantime, please?”

"I got you" Doc raised his hand and that was enough for the boy as a guarantee to be able to go and be sure to have his drink on the way back.

"Hey guys. Can I ask you something?” Gin asked, standing up to the rest of the boys who immediately nodded "Why does Chuuya look so annoyed tonight?"

"Annoyed? Why does he seem annoyed to you?” Iceman looked at her confused and she just shrugged.

“He pushes you away and looks bored. Even during rehearsals he does that” Gin muttered into his glass, this time going to look at Tachihara who shook his head. "Oh God. I'm misunderstanding, right?"

"Don't worry. Many people think the same at first impact with Chuuya” Iceman spoke again, taking the pack of cigarettes from his trouser pocket. He announced his retreat to smoke a couple and then walked towards the entrance.

He is not good at showing his emotions and so he developed a system of his own to be understood by others" Pianoman continued and that made the girl raise an eyebrow.

“With some hair clips?”

“With the color of them”

“Oh- That make sense” She nodded “So what's the sequence? Yellow means he is happy?”

“The fun is in guessing. Once you understand it's all downhill.” Albatross laughed “And think that Tachihara still hasn't learned them all. Once he got confused, Chuuya was pissed and punched him on the jaw”

“Can we not talk about that? I had to put frozen peas to not be deformed afterwards” He sighed and Albatross seriously had to hold back another laugh while the barman put a drink in front of the empty place.

“Anyway Gin, don't mention it to him. He finds it damn embarrassing” Lippman sighed, grinning when Gin nodded. A few seconds later Chuuya returned and so did Iceman and quickly the discussion about the band continued to enliven their evening. Later, half of them were drunk and the rest helped them into the car without throwing up on their pillows.

“Shit, Chuuya. You didn't drink that much!" Albatross exclaimed, throwing his friend onto the bed.
Contrary to what was said before, in the end it was Albatross who had to drive everyone home. While Gin was fortunately sober and perfectly capable of walking on her own feet, so Tachihara hadn't been.

It had taken him half an hour just to be told where to find the house keys and to throw him on the sofa. After that he had to do the same with Chuuya up to his bedroom. As luck would have it, his roommate was definitely lighter and more manageable than Tachihara.

“'Tross” Chuyya moaned while he was changed. His voice was low and he sounded like he was going to fall asleep like a baby. The blond giggled and carefully pulled the clips out of his hair.

“Just a second and you can sleep. Be patient."

“Do you think I'm a bad person?” He grumbled again

“I don't surround myself with people with a shitty vibe, Chuuya. You definitely aren't."

"But-"

“No buts. Now sleep so you won't look even more like a monster in the morning” Albatross ordered, covering him with the sheet and then going in his room, ignoring his friend who was still trying to complain.

♫

The following afternoon the rehearsals began strangely on time given that Dazai had deigned to even arrive early. When Chuuya entered the hall together with the Akutagawa brothers, the man was sitting on the sofa. He kept his arms crossed, thw head tilted and his eyes closed.

"Someone else didn't sleep well it seems" Gin laughed, then glancing at Chuuya as well. The man huffed in response, leaving his backpack in a corner and going to stand next to Dazai.

Chuuya had woken up that morning with the hangover residue and Albatross blasting the music while preparing something to eat in the kitchen. Chuuya huffed at the bad start to the day, but the situation worsened when he saw on the phone that he should be at rehearsal in less than an hour.

That's why he had asked a friend for a ride that he was more than happy to get an extra favor to redeem in the future.

“This place is absurd. You gotta let me in one day. This will be your way of repaying me” Albatross yelled at him from the street as he reached the entrance of the Mori Corp then left who knows where. As luck would have it, he had also agreed to give him lift on the way back to avoid the crowded trains.

“Did you guys drink that much last night?” Akutagawa asked as he sat down on the floor, tuning his guitar. The black baggy pants covered the combat boots and touched the floor in that position, also hiding the accessory chains on the shoes.

Chuuya grunted, leaning his head on the armrest and putting himself in a fetal position to be able to stay on the sofa. Grey Bermuda shorts went up a bit on his thighs. He closed his eyes too while waiting for the aspirin to take effect.

"He and Tachi were certainly the worst of all," Gin laughed as she put a hand between the red hair and stroked it. She noticed something. "No hairpins today, Chuuya?"

The man moaned in response and touched his head "I forgot"

In the next ten minutes many things happened. Chuuya eventually fell asleep and Dazai was awakened by the arrival of Odasaku and Tachihara. The latter, despite being more fit than Chuuya, stood next to him, closing his eyes to rest.

"Did I miss something?" Dazai there looked both, then looking up at the others who did the same, trying to hide smiles or laughter. No one answered and his gaze returned to Chuuya. For the first time the man had a relaxed expression and the hair, usually kept with care, was ruffled and covered half of his face.

"We went drinking last night. He went a bit heavy apparently" Tachihara replied after minutes of silence "Not that I didn’t do the same"

“At least you're awake” Dazai snorted as he reached out to wake Chuuya. “Sleeping on the job. No professional would ever do that."

“Well you were, too” Odasaku spoke and Dazai glared at him.

“I was writing some songs tonight. Job related, dude” he rolled his eyes while the expression on Chuuya's face changed to an annoyed “Come on, sleeping beauty. It's time to work!”

“Why the fuck are you yelling, piece of shit?” The redhead grumbled, pushing Dazai away with a light push and sitting up, running a hand over his face and hair "Did I fall asleep?"

“Yes, Nakahara. Take a minute to come to your senses and then come to try the song"

“Yeah, sorry. I didn't want to fall asleep.” The man mumbled in exhaustion and Dazai froze for a second. He expected screams and complaints, but Chuuya was strangely obedient when he was sleepy. It didn't help that Chuuya opened his eyes, giving the man a little smile, then smoothing his hair and the oversized shirt. Dazai gasped as his heart skipped a beat, muttered something and then approached his guitar.

The others and even Chuuya himself looked at him confused. The only one who didn't do it was Odasaku who smiled on the contrary, while he sat next to Chuuya.

Within minutes the man explained the program for the next two days and the band settled behind their instruments, starting to rehearse the song they would bring. For Dazai playing that song was as easy as breathing given all the times the band had played it during concerts. And, if usually he didn't even need to look at the guitar, this time he had to to avoid looking at Chuuya. The same boy that Dazai loathed and was bullying less than ten minutes ago, now he sat cross-legged on the sofa and watched the band play. His blue eyes, so receptive and enthusiastic against his own will, followed the movements of the musicians. He didn't stop looking even when Odasaku said something to him or when their eyes met for a split second at the end of the song.

“Alright! We sound cool as always” Dazai broke eye contact first.

"I agree. Chuuya,do you feel like trying? If you don't know the words I have the lyrics here"

Odasaku's proposal seemed stupid. . What they were playing was literally their most famous song and if Chuuya and Tachihara were as close friends as they claimed to be, then Chuuya must have known it.

Instead-

"Yes please. I need it"

“Wait- what? Don't you know this song?” Dazai asked dumbfounded.

“I told you you're not my style” Chuuya shrugged, then raised an eyebrow when everyone sighed. "What?"

"Nothing. Take the lyrics and read it. In the meantime, we'll try it one more time on our own.” Dazai muttered as he slid back into position with the others.

Chuuya didn't answer, but he didn't spare Dazai a look of annoyance at his arrogant tone. He snatched the sheet from the manager's hands and concentrated on reading. The dark-haired swore he could see him humming to find the rhythm with them.

A few minutes later the song ended and Chuuya got up from the sofa to approach the microphone.

“Do you feel ready yet? Maybe you should-” Akutagawa spoke, pulling his fingertips away from the strings and running a hand over the forehead to push away the unruly wisps.

“No, I'm ready,” he replied, but didn't look in his direction. His attention was fully on Dazai and a staring contest began. The other man smiled amused, leaving his post to approach Chuuya again. One hand on the red and black guitar strap and the other on the guitar neck.

"Really? Is our little Chuuya so talented? And to think that a professional singer took a week to learn it” He teased him, lowering himself to his height, until overtook and covering him almost completely. Not that it was difficult.

“Well I did and don't call me Chuuya.” The closeness didn't seem to bother him. Instead, he crossed his arms and continued to stare into the man's eyes. Dazai smiled, but didn't answer. He reached out one arm past the other's side and with a quick movement lowered the boom of the microphone.

“Take a seat, then. Who am I not to trust you?” he laughed, walking away only a few steps. Looking at the others he found them with a shocked look on their faces. Tachihara in particular.

“During the performance I will be next to you. If you mess something up in the rhythm I will touch you or try to get your attention, but if for some reason you feel insecure about something just look at me and I will try to guide you. No bullshit"

Chuuya nodded and turned to the microphone, putting the finishing touches as Dazai underestimated his real height. He took a deep breath and when the beat came he started singing, following the lyrics.

Contrary to what Dazai expected Chuuya didn't go that badly. He had changed his voice to a higher pitch to match the song and the rhythm was almost right, except in a few places. It wasn't perfect and could definitely be improved on the chorus part, but it was okay.

The song was going well and Dazai's fingertips were starting to feel the burn from the fast rubbing of the strings, not having warmed them up beforehand. The same was happening to Chuuya's voice. More than once, Dazai should have corrected him, but the other always managed to fix the pace on his own.

The only time he had to intervene was on the chorus. Chuuya's throat burned from the effort and he wasn't breathing properly between verses so he ended up going too fast as he tried to recover.

Dazai approached, touching the singer's leg with his foot. They looked at each other for a second before Chuuya slowed down, staring straight ahead again. After that moment there were no other episodes and the song finished without problems.

Dazai cut off the last note vigorously as everyone backed away from their instruments. Odasaku, still sitting on the sofa, threw a bottle of water at Chuuya. The boy was clearly the most exhausted by the way he rubbed his throat.

"Break?" Gin asked, leaning his bass against the wall and hopping happily when Dazai agreed.

“I'm going to get some food. Do you want something?" Tachihara butted into the conversation.

"To die," Chuuya muttered, sinking into the couch.

“Okay, a sandwich for you then.” He took his wallet and walked out of the room after taking Akutagawa's and Dazai's orders. Both coffee.

“So...what do you think, Chuuya?” Gin asked, sitting down next to him and leaning towards him. “You sound so cool for your first try”

“I don't think it was as cool as you say. Dazai even had to correct me and that high note destroyed my vocal cords” Chuuya sighed, drinking again and looking down when the girl placed a hand on his knee. The contrast between Gin's pale skin and Chuuya's tan was clearly visible.

“You are too hard on yourself. It's only your first time."

“But-”

“Hush, now. She's right. No one in this room expects perfection from you. Neither do I.” Dazai interjected. He was sitting in one of the armchairs looking at the phone. Even as he spoke he didn't leave the screen with his eyes, but cast a quick glance at Gin's hand resting on the redhead's bare knee. “I called you once, but every other time you were able to correct yourself. You learned a text by reading it once and were able to keep your voice stable even after that difficult high pitch. You're good"

Silence fell for a few seconds. Dazai continued staring at his phone, Gin removed her hand, Odasaku held back another smile and Akutagawa continued to ignore them as before. Everything seemed normal, except for Chuuya.

The readhead looked like a doll. He stood motionless for a few seconds processing the various compliments as a blush grew on his cheeks. Gin's one were obviously much appreciated, but what made Chuuya's brain freeze was Dazai's words.

He didn't expect it and the tone of voice used, despite the fact that it could seem normal to everyone, in Chuuya seemed so sweet to surround all of his senses. Before he could respond and embarrass himself even more, Dazai spoke again.

“And I only had to call you back because you were going too fast. Before the chorus take a good breath that you have all the time. But don't blame yourself. I should have told you, so it's my fault” He turned off his phone and looked at Chuuya, raising an eyebrow. "Are you alright?"

“Yeah! Of course I'm fine” He yelled and get up from the comfy pillows “I need to go to the bathroom now, excuse me.”

And in less than a second he was out in the corridor, striding towards the toilets. His face was on fire and he didn't want anyone else to see him like this and ask questions or guesses. Unfortunately for Chuuya Tachihara was returning from the bar and he was immediately concerned, but he was cut off even before speaking.

"Don't say a word" Chuuya ordered, going straight to the bathroom. He leaned against the sink, wetting his face hard in the hope of making that annoying blush from his cheeks and the warmth disappear. The door opened behind him and when he turned to look at Tachihara he was in the doorway with the coffees in one hand and the bag in the other.

"What happened? Did Dazai piss you off again?” he asked.

"Nothing happened. I'll be back in a second” Chuuya snapped. He didn't want to because Tachihara was just worried about him as a good friend. Chuuya breathed, turning around. "I'm sorry. I'm fine, really"

Tachihara stood in the doorway for a few seconds looking at him with the same frown on his face. He then just nodded and left Chuuya alone again. He sighed, taking his time to calm down.

Meanwhile Tachihara was back in the rehearsal room. He left the food on the coffee table, addressing Dazai. “What the fuck did you do to Chuuya this time?”

The two of them had known each other for years and, although he wasn't as good at understanding him as Albatross or Iceman, he could sense when Chuuya was angry or annoyed. Yet he had never seen him like this.

“Nothing.” Dazai shrugged, reaching for the cup of coffee. "Is he sick?"

“No, he's fine. He's just- weird? I've never seen him like this"

“Well, I didn't do anything. I even complimented him” he wrinkled his nose, then took a big sip. That simple sentence was enough to fit the pieces together. Tachihara laughed heartily, throwing himself on the sofa next to Gin, taking the first bite of the sandwich. “Why are you laughing, you weirdo?”

"Nothing. I just realized one thing. Sorry if I accused you, man”

Dazai's curiosity alarms lit on. He had gotten a little worried about Chuuya when he ran off – not that he would ever admit it – and if Tachihara knew why then he wanted to know too.

“So what would that be?” His fingers were twitching, and not from the caffeine.

“Sorry man. I promised Chuuya not to tell anyone about this” the redhead raised his hands and before Dazai could return to the attack Gin spoke.

“Oh come on, 'Samu. Don't you really understand?"

And that only increased the thirst for knowledge about Chuuya. Knowing what's bugging him is gold material for Dazai, and any information is helpful. He.needs.to.know.

The door opening again and Chuuya's presence in the room put an end to any kind of discovery attempt. The redhead avoided Dazai's gaze even while he sat between the other two and right in front of him. He spent the rest of the break eating his sandwich in silence.

“Okay. I would say we can continue now.”

♫

The next few hours passed relatively quietly. Dazai had to correct Chuuya a couple more times, but the redhead had followed his advice and the chorus part was no longer a problem. During the breaks Osamu tried to annoy him in every way to get a similar reaction, but he never succeeded.

Chuuya limited himself to ignoring every attempt, only listening to him in professional terms, but Dazai managed to get an answer at the end of the rehearsal, even if it wasn't the one he wanted. There were screams filling the thankfully soundproofed room and everyone could tell it was the typical Chuuya reaction.

“Good job, everyone. Tomorrow we meet here at 9 a.m. and then we go to the studio. Be punctual, please” The rehearsals were over and the sun was starting to set. Akutagawa and Odasaku had left together and Chuuya was sipping from his third bottle of water.

“Can you close, Chuuya? We have to go.” Tachihara asked in the doorway, keeping an arm around Gin's shoulders. Dazai was beside them, leaning against the door-frame with his arms crossed. His eyes focused on Chuuya.

“Mh? Of course” he muttered, sinking into the couch with a loud moan.

"Are you sure? Don't you fall asleep here?" Dazai laughed, covering his mouth with a fist when the redhead gave him the middle finger.

“even if I did my friend would call me so many times to wake me. Now shut up and go."

"Okay okay. See you tomorrow, little red.” Gin laughed, blowing him a flying kiss before walking out the door with the others and closing the door behind him.

The elevator ride passed in silence. Gin was watching videos on her phone with tachihara peering over her head and Dazai was leaning against the wall in the same position as before, thoughtful.

“So are you going to tell me or not?" Dazai spoke as the doors opened, getting confused looks from both friends "About that thing in the first break"

“Oh yeah” Tachihara laughed, walking towards the exit “Sorry man, but as I said before- I promised Chuuya not to reveal this little secret to anyone”

“Oh come on!”

“You really didn't get it? It's so obvious,” Gin said, breaking away from the redhead's grip to turn to Dazai. "I thought you were the smartest of the bunch"

"If it's that easy then why don't you tell me?" Dazai crossed his arms, smiling when Gin sighed.

“Okay, I'm telling you otherwise you'll keep pestering me.” She snorted, ignoring Tachihara when he tried to stop her. “What? You promised, but I didn't. I want to see what happens between these two”

She laughed and walked over to Dazai, forcing him to bend down so she could whisper in his ear.

“Chuuya is just a little slut for attention”

Contrary to what the other two expected, Dazai laughed. He took a step away from Gin and just laughed heartily.

“Him? And what does that have to do with me? That guy hates me-”

“Well, you said you complimented him, didn't you?” Tachihara asked.

“Yes, but also Gin-”

“That's different. Of course he appreciated my compliment, but it's not the same. You complimented him a lot before and he didn’t expect them from you because he seems to hate him. He got embarrassed and ran away. Did you really not see how red his face was?"

Dazai was silent for a few seconds. He had noticed how Chuuya had covered his face after their brief conversation, but he didn't think it was because he was embarrassed. In fact, he was suspecting that the he was ignoring him out of anger. After all, they hated each other, didn't they?

“Besides, you're kinda attractive as a man. Obviously he prefers compliments from a cute boy like you than from me.” Gin added, chuckling.

“Why would he prefer compliments from a man?” Dazai raised an eyebrow.

“Oh my God, I can't deal with you anymore” Gin sighed, turning to the exit without saying anything else.

"Gin? Come on, tell me!”

♫

Once left alone Chuuya sighed. He left the bottle of water that fell on the mat and covered his face with an arm. All the while he had tried not to think about it, giving his best during rehearsals, ignoring Dazai and talking to the other members, but the man’s words were constantly ringing in his head.

You’re good.
It's my fault.

You’re good.
It's my fault.

You’re good.

His heartbeat increased without permission, and so did the blush on his cheeks. He felt warm, but it was pleasant. He would smile, but he refused to do it. He wouldn’t have gone that far with an idiot like Dazai.

"That bastard," he muttered, slapping himself lightly to come to his senses. He sat down and looked around at the room. The first time he walked in, he found it too stereotypical. Black and red walls, crimson leather sofas and the corner with all the tools. It seemed copied and pasted from some photos on the web and the same had thought of the members.

With their styles the Akuatagawa brothers looked like typical band members who loved to go overboard with accessories and bang with guitars on stage. Tachihara had known him for some time, but looking closely he too exuded the vibe of a musician. The only one who stood out was Dazai. The first time Chuuya saw him he was wearing comfortable clothes and looked more like a personal trainer or a house-man than a band leader.

And from how Chuuya had chosen to dress he seemed more like an official member of the group than the leader himself. This surprised him positively, but all the magic ended when Dazai opened his mouth. He had turned out to be an arrogant jerk as he had expected.

But now he was starting to like all that stereotypical environment. Staying closed in the room with the others every afternoon. Taking turns to fetch food had become the norm, as had Odasaku on his phone to answer calls from his other clients or Dazai coming in late with his cup of coffee.

He was starting to feel like when he walked into illegal clubs and the music and the led hit him along with the smell of smoke. It was a feeling as beautiful as it was terrifying.

“Fuck it,” he sighed and stood up, walking out of the room and locking it. He put the key in his backpack pocket, walking towards the elevator. He leaned against the wall, texting Albatross to leave and then put it away, staring into space. When the doors opened again on the ground floor Chuuya saw Dazai turned on his back looking towards the exit. Just outside the glass windows were Gin and Tachihara walking away laughing to each other.

“Everything okay?” He asked while he approached the other man and swore he saw him jump. Dazai turned and met Chuuya's eyes for a second, before looking away. "I thought you were going away with them two"

“Oh, no I have my own car” Dazai said “You have been a little. You could also come down with us at this point”

"I wanted to be alone for a moment and then I still have to wait for my ride so"

“We could have taken you. I'll give you a lift if you want.” Dazai almost slapped himself just for proposing it. Why on earth would he give a lift to a guy – obviously attractive and who had smiled at him in such a cute way – like him?

"Don't worry. The boy who lives with me has probably already left. I promised we would have dinner together” he laughed and then took the keys to give them to him, but was stopped by Dazai's hand on his.

“You keep them. I always lose my keys” Dazai looked at Chuuya as he stared at their hands together and noticed how his cheeks heated up. When he finally realized he quickly removed his hand, blushing too.

Instantly every dot connected.

The reaction when Dazai teased him about the release of the video scandal.

The fact that he ran away right after Dazai complimented him.

The way he'd ignored him the whole time afterward.

"Now can you ditch me, thanks? You know people might misunderstand if the doors opened right now”

"I have to go to the bathroom, sorry"

“Chuuya is just a slut for attention”

"Obviously he prefers compliments from a cute boy like you than from me"

“I promised we would've dinner together”

And now the red cheeks just because Dazai take his hand.

Dazai had suspected that Chuuya had reacted badly out of anger and disgust, but he quickly realized that he actually felt embarrassed because of Dazai's words.

Oh shit.

Chapter Text

Music had always been the mainstay of Chuuya's life.

The first contact it was at five years old when his parents hired a private piano teacher. He was a man in his fifties with glassy eyes and a heavy step that was clearly audible even over the notes. He had a cold and stern approach, punishing his students every time they do a mistake until their knuckles ached.

For that reason many of the parents had decided to withdraw their children from lessons, but not Chuuya's. The man came to his house three times a week, strictly on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays at 3.45 pm and stayed until dinner time or beyond. During those hours he massacred the child with teachings about music and posture, hitting him at the slightest mistake. It was hard to count how many times Chuuya had cried in pain and humiliation, hating how his parents would allow something like that despite him begging them to change teacher.

"Mom, please. I hate that man. He's so mean and he hit me for nothing." He wept while the woman swabbed the fresh wounds with disinfectant-soaked cotton.

"If he hits you it's because you're doing something wrong. Just learn to do better and it won't happen again" She always answered, carefully wrapping the gauze around his hand.

His father, on the other hand, never intervened. When he wasn't in the hospital he would just sit in the chair with the patient records in front of him and let Chuuya whine without listening to him. Only a couple of times he had dressed his wounds or scolded him for his attitude.

The lessons went on for three years and when Chuuya entered his eight years old he had definitely improved with the piano. Now there were few times when he was punished and when it happened he treated himself, unable to bear the reproaches of his mother.

Chuuya's entire family was made up of renowned doctors and was a succession of generations who had specialized in every area of modern medicine. There had been surgeons, nutritionists, gynecologists, vets and more. His parents had met right in the hospital and had married less than a year later due to family pressure. Chuuya's mother was the head of the general surgery department in Tokyo's most renowned hospital, while his father was a world-renowned neurosurgeon and director of the same facility. Though they loved each other and loved Chuuya, the way they were raised prevented them from showing it. They raised their son as their parents did in the past so that he was a serious and diligent person from an early age and it worked. Chuuya was an extremely polite child both at home and outside.

He had attended primary school at a very expensive private institution where he was surrounded by qualified teachers and children from wealthy families like his own. He didn't make many friends and the only ones he bonded with stopped talking to him when he went to a public school in the middle years.

It was there that his life changed drastically.

The first two months weren't easy. Chuuya had found himself thrown into a world that he didn't know since he had always related to a completely different people target. It didn't take too long for rumors of his family to spread as well, which increased the furtive glances and giggles in the hallways. Someone even tried to approach him, hoping to exploit his family's money.

His parents had warned him and for that Chuuya was afraid of interacting with anyone and he spent his lunch breaks sitting alone in the garden, scrolling the phone or looking at the others.

The day everything changed was a normal Thursday when a sudden downpour had hit, forcing all the students to eat in the cafeteria. There each table was as if reserved by the different groups and no one was interested in sitting elsewhere, but Chuuya didn't have a group of his own and therefore didn't know where to sit.

He walked between the tables clutching the handle of the bento, looking for an empty or few people table. While walking he could hear and see some students talking to each other and looking at him with indiscreet looks.

Chuuya simply ignored them, until one table in particular caught his attention. They were a group of eight people, all from different sections of the first year, and among them he also recognized two who went in class with him. They occupied the seats at the back of the hall, but they were so loud that they could be heard from outside the cafeteria. They were exactly the opposite of what Chuuya was looking for, so why was he walking towards them? He didn't know either.

He only became aware of his gesture when the whole table looked up, suddenly falling silent. For a few seconds no one spoke and Chuuya intensified the grip, building up his courage.

"Can I sit with you?"

The guys look at each other, eyebrows raised and eyes doubtful. No one answered his question.

"Sit with us?" A boy, that Chuuya already knew by sight, laughed. He was in the corridor when he saw him being scolded by a teacher for his blue hair, decidedly out of order. Anyway, His tone of voice and that smirk was enough to bring down the mask of politeness on Chuuya's face.

"Can't you hear me well, smurf?"

"What the fuck did you just say?" It didn't take much for the boy - who shortly after Chuuya discovered his name to be Shin - stood up, ready to fight. To calm the situation was one of Chuuya's classmate, Shirase, who pulled Shin by the shirt to make him return to his seat and who also invited Chuuya to sit with them.

Chuuya liked Shirase. From that day on they became close friends and with them also Yuan, a petite girl with black hair and pink extensions who spent all class hours in the back desks playing on the phone or painting her nails. The teachers had now given up and didn't scold her anymore.

The redhead started hanging out with the group more often and eating with them all the time, ignoring Shin and his glares as much as he could.

It was them who introduced him to Extasy when he was thirteen. Shirase invited him home for a sleepover and the situation had then escalated when he had convinced Chuuya to go to that place. There his relationship with music changed again but once in a good way.

Watching the rappers and bands from under the stage, feeling the ground shaking thanks to the crowd's jumping and being able to dance with his friends was something so beautiful that he would never have lived without knowing those guys.

The first time he went on stage it was Yuan who encouraged him and he still owes a lot to her for that. And if being in the fray was nice, being above it was the best. From the stage he could see the whole hall packed with people dancing and yelling his name and his friends who were always in the front row yelling louder than the others. Among them, even Shin had sometimes deigned to appreciate Chuuya's talent.

Their relationship improved during the summer break of their fourth year when Shin stopped acting like an idiot. They became friends and after a couple of months they got together, however hiding their relationship from anyone but the group. After all, Chuuya couldn't possibly let his parents know that he was attracted to boys.

Those years were the best of Chuuya's life, but also the fakest. He had friends, a boyfriend, Extasy and his parents were oblivious to everything, happy that he got good grades in school, but he also started getting pushed to the wrong side. He often got into fights and Shin also had even convinced him to start smoking. Which he did for a while because everyone there did and they looked so cool blowing smoke.

Chuuya thought he was really happy, but the situation soon worsened and Shin was the one who made it fall.

The first day of high school Chuuya discovered that he wasn't in class with any of his friends and this demoralized him a lot. He thought he wouldn't find anyone like Shirase and Yuan to share the desk with, but he was wrong.

The following week a new student was added to his class and the teacher asked Chuuya if he could show him around the school after lesson. In half an hour the redhead knew the whole life of that boy. He discovered that his name was Albatross, that he had returned to Japan after three years in America with his mother and that he was two years older than him. He had failed several times in the American school and his mother, tired of his attitudes, had sent him home to his father. In a short time they became close friends and several times Chuuya tried to put him in the group with the others, but they didn't seem to like it. Particularly Shin constantly touching Chuuya when Albatross was present and glaring at him.

Not worrying too much about the situation, Chuuya decided that he would go out separately with Albatross and one evening he also introduced him to Extasy. He seemed to settle in well because after less than a month later he took Chuuya at his first street racing rally, opening up a whole new world for him.

Everything was ruined one November night when Chuuya had to pit the Sheep to go to watch an important race for Albatross. He had asked them to join, but annoyed they refused, saying they would do it alone. A few hours later the police arrived at the rally, wreaking havoc with people being arrested and others running to jump into their cars to escape. Albatross and Chuuya did the same, but the license plate was recognized and they were stopped a few kilometers away.

It was his father who showed up at the police station to get him out and throughout the car ride home neither of them spoke. His parents didn't scold him and never spoke about it. They simply forbade him to go out other than for school.

The next day in class Albatross told him that they had revoked his license for a year as well as giving him a rather hefty fine. Fortunately, however, neither of them was arrested.

For months, no one in the club could figure out who had called the police. To do it was Chuuya when he overheard a conversation between Shin and the rest of the Sheep returning from the bathroom during the lunch break. He heard how Shin recounted amused the anonymous call to the police or the satisfaction he had felt when Chuuya had called to tell him everything and let off steam that same night. Around him the others giggled, convinced that Chuuya was still too far away to hear them.

The redhead didn't say anything to the club, only telling Albatross because in his opinion he deserved to know that they had ruined his evening and a year of his life.

For days he ignored the Sheep and when Shirase, Yuan and Shin pissed him off for an explanation he snapped everything at them. He declared both their friendship and the relationship with Shin ended, also taking off the bracelet that they had all bought together in the third year. From that moment he stopped going out with them, but without abandoning Extasy. He found the atmosphere of those abandoned places and the warmth of the audience too good not to go back every time, but that meant having to see them almost always.

Shin was the one who tried the hardest to get Chuuya back to them, often criticizing and insulting even the new group Chuuya had joined or the boy he had started dating. Needless to say, Chuuya didn't remain silent to such taunts.

It was Albatross who introduced him to the flags after they officially became roommates. They were a group of five guys racing cars through Tokyo traffic and were more than happy to have the him with them.

Chuuya's escape from home wasn't planned very carefully. On the evening of the last day of school, his parents were both at home for dinner and, in the silence of the dining room, they congratulated their son on his excellent grade, also starting to talk about the university he was going to. They had planned their son's life as a doctor before he was conceived, so much so that they began teaching him the basic concepts when he was seven years old, but Chuuya wasn't interested in becoming a doctor and told them, interrupting his mother's speech.

The next day, before they returned home from the hospital, Chuuya left the house and went to Albatross' apartment across town. He changed his cell phone number after weeks, tired of the constant calls from his family and ex-friends.

Over the years he understood that he wanted to live a life full of experiences. His dream of becoming a rapper grew bigger every day and he started working at Kouyou's bar in order to save money for it. He never thought that singing for Tachihara's group would make his dream come true.

Sunday morning everyone gathered on time in the underground parking lots of Mori Corp to go to the radio studio for the interview. Due to the need to keep Chuuya's identity private they had to load the instruments into the van themselves.

"Can't we get someone to sign a confidentiality agreement and have them carry this stuff?" Tachihara asked, leaning on the handlebars of the trolley with which he had brought down the pieces of his drum kit. The rest of the group already sitting in the vehicle laughed.

"You always brag about your muscles and then you get tired for this?. Since only you are missing" Gin laughed, then putting on a headphone and leaning his head on his brother's shoulder. Tachihara taunted her and then finished loading everything, climbing aboard too.

The journey took half an hour due to light traffic. The vehicle was plunged into silence, but the music from the radio made it less awkward. Odasaku as a driver had been calm and patient, never complaining about the other cars; Gin and Akutagawa rested next to each other, sharing headphones; Tachihara, Dazai and Chuuya, instead, looked to the city out the windows.

Due to an unfortunate turn of events Chuuya had found himself having to sit in front of Dazai with their knees touching at every turn in the confined space. Both didn't comment, but glanced at each other out of the corner of their eyes to see each other's reactions.

What made him stop worrying about close contact with Dazai was the final stretch of road that became strangely familiar.

During his adolescence Chuuya had already attended many interviews, being the son of two renowned doctors. At least once a month he accompanied his parents and most of the time they went to a famous speaker who was a friend of his father since high school.

Chuuya had always found his excellent memory helpful, but not when he recognized the street and building as the same one he had gone to years before.

"Okay, we've arrived. Wake up and get out. We need to start unloading everything" Odasaku said as he stopped the vehicle and got out. One by one the others also began to get off and unload their instruments.

Chuuya was like paralyzed. His heart had skipped a beat, but his brain was racing. He couldn't do it anymore. He couldn't let anyone who knew his family know that he was still around. Surely Kimura would tell and they would know that he was still in Tokyo and not abroad as he had written on the note in the kitchen. When Dazai got up to leave too, Chuuya was quick to grab him by the shirt, preventing him from moving any further. In return he only got a confused look.

"I don't want to do this anymore" he said without meeting anyone's eyes, awed by their reactions. Everyone stopped and the silence oppressed Chuuya's chest even more "I'm sorry- I don-"

"Chuuya? Oi, what's going on?"

"Aren't you feeling well? You don't have to worry if it's from the agitation"

"What do you say? You can't leave us like this at the last minute!"

Tachihara, Gin and Akutagawa spoke while Dazai and Odasaku remained silent. The anger in Ryunosuke's voice and the concern of the others didn't help. It was Dazai who calmed them down and sat in his place again, also closing the door.

"Odasaku, please go meet Kimura and you guys start setting up the rehearsal room. I'll take care this" He said in a direct tone never taking his eyes off Chuuya who still refused to look at him.

After some complaints from Tachihara, the tailgate was closed and the two were left alone in the silent van.

"Why are you here? If they saw us alone together there would be another scandal" Chuuya muttered, still looking at the back of the building. "Shut up, Nakahara. You know perfectly well that these windows are tinted. Now why don't you look at me and explain your sudden decision?" Despite his calm tone, his voice spat venom. He hated how Chuuya was changing his mind at the last minute, thus complicating everyone's plans.

"What do you want me to say? I've changed my mind! There's nothing that makes me sing for you today!" The redhead snapped, being quickly grabbed by Dazai by the shirt and yanked forward. Within seconds their faces were so close they could touch and Dazai's eyes burned into Chuuya's.

"You won't have to, but I didn't waste my days and effort and other people's time for a brat to retreat with the tail between his legs. I don't know why you don't want anyone to know about you, but if you don't give me a valid reason I will be the first to reveal who is the famous man in the videos with me."

"You can't do that, you asshole!" Chuuya swallowed, trying to pull away, but Dazai prevented him, squeezing his chin with a firm grip this time. This only made the redhead feel even worse.

"Of course I can. Mori Corp cameras have filmed you every time, you signed the confidentiality agreement with your name and I have many witnesses who can confirm your presence both at the agency and at the bar. And beyond that I'm going to tell everyone about the adorable illegal businesses you love to do so much so that no one will ever agree to hire you again. Now why don't you tell me why you don't want to sing anymore?" The speech ended with a sweet smile on his face, but Chuuya was almost shaking in his seat with lips so close to those that had spat threats masked with sweetness until a second before.

"I-" the lump in his throat prevented him from speaking.

"Yeah? Come on honey, I don't have all day" A thumb went to stroke Chuuya's right cheek in anticipation.

"My family...they-...The speaker knows my family. He'll tell them that he saw me and I can't let them know that I am still here" Chuuya's voice came out louder this time and pushed forcefully off Dazai, returning to his seat with the back against the seat.

"Is that all? Are you going to waste a week of work because of your family? What bullshit is this?" The man crossed his arms, making Chuuya clench his fists hard. His nails dug into his palm, leaving marks.

"Yes, because I'm not going to waste years of my life just for a stupid recording that brings me personally nothing but problems!" He snapped, pointing his finger at the other's face "And don't ever dare touch me or call me that again, Dazai or I swear I'll ruin your life."

"Ruin my life?" Dazai laughed, leaning back. His knees spread, locked Chuuya's legs. "And what are you going to do with that contract? Anything you say will only take you to court and you should also know that I have the best lawyers, but let's pretend you're stupid enough to do it. Who do you think they would believe? An international star or a nobody?"

This time Chuuya's eyes seemed to spit fire. He was pissed, but he knew Dazai was right. He was signed to an agreement and couldn't say anything about the band or its members without ending up in a lawsuit, but Dazai could. He could ruin his life if he wanted to and he wouldn't hesitate.

Chuuya didn't answer.

"So, now, why don't you go to the others while I join Odasaku at Kimura's office to convince him not to tell your family about you? You'll see, I'll be able to convince him. I always do."

Chuuya looked at him in surprise when he opened the door and got out, leaving the redhead behind.

"If I remember correctly I told you that I take care of my band members even if they are temporary. Go at the rehearsal room and leave it to me. Just think about warming up that chicken voice of yours"

"You- what did you say about my voice?!"

♫

"Dazai! What a pleasure to see you again after such a long time, boy!"

If Dazai had been asked for a single word to describe Kimura he would have chosen "pushy". Throughout the career of every public figure there was a need to learn that due to the fault of journalists, fans and paparazzi private life would always be violated. However Kimura wasn't so intrusive in that sense as with his gestures. That's why Dazai found himself uncomfortable in the man's tight hug.

"Sakunosuke was telling me that you were having some little problems with your new singer. I hope it's all resolved now."

"The pleasure is always mine, Mr. Kimura" Dazai smiled, then followed the man to the coffee machine where Odasaku was also standing. Quickly a black coffee was selected for brewing. "Yeah, he's such a diva. By the way I should tell you something about today's performance if it's not a burden"

"A burden? Of course not. If I can do anything to help my guests I'll be more than happy to oblige. What is it about?" Once over the coffee, Kimura handed it to him.

"I need you to sign a non-disclosure agreement on him. It would make him more comfortable to be able to perform for you this afternoon."

Both Odasaku and Kimura looked at him with furrowed eyebrows, amazed by this request. In years of collaboration between the studio and Mori Corp that type of contract between the two parties had never been required.

"An agreement? Dazai what's going on?" Odasaku asked, tossing the red cup into the trash bin next to him.

"If you're worried about me revealing his identity or that I'll connect him to the scandal, don't worry. I've already given my word to Sakunosuke that I won't talk about it"

"But for me and our singer your word isn't enough, so either sign this contract-" Dazai took the piece of paper out of his bag. Even before Chuuya's outburst he had planned to have Kimura sign it to protect him “- or Stray Dogs will no longer play for you on your show. I'll also convince Mori not to work with you anymore and, in case you decide to ignore the clauses, I will provide the best lawyers that can be found. What do you say, Mr. Kimura ?"

The man was as nervous as he looked and notable was his throat swallowing the excess of saliva. Dazai's attitude was new and he found it very rude given the large age gap between the two. For a second he thought about laughing at him and kicking his ass out of the building, but in retrospect they were the ones getting him the most plays ever. Losing them would be a big blow to his income.

"I'll take a pen."

Dazai smiled, proud of himself "Wise choice, Sir"

♫

Despite the past years, Kimura's studio had never changed. The walls of the hallways were still painted in that annoying light blue shade and the rooms kept the same black doors. Even the plants remained the same as Chuuya remembered.

The rehearsal room was at the far end of the ground floor and was significantly smaller than the one at Mori Corp.

As soon as he entered, Gin and Tachihara were upon him, peppering him with questions. Akutagawa only gave him sideways glances, but Chuuya knew he wanted answers.

"Are you okay? You've changed your mind, haven't you? Will you sing for us?" Tachihara exclaimed, grabbing his arms and shaking him lightly. Chuuya laughed.

"Dazai said he'd think about everything so yeah, though I'm afraid he wasn't quite sincere." Chuuya's gaze went blank as he thought.

"If it's for work Dazai is always honest with us. But what's worrying you? You looked almost sick earlier in the van" Gin pulled the boy away from him and took his hands. Her fingers gently stroked Chuuya's knuckles.

"Personal stuff. I don't feel like talking about it guys, sorry. Can I help you set up the instruments?" The two looked at each other doubtfully, but then nodded. Tachihara took Chuuya with himself and together they finished putting the drums together. When they were finished, Odasaku and Dazai also joined them and proudly waved the signed contract in Chuuya's face.

"Now you don't have to worry about anything. I convinced him to shut up once in a while" He laughed and then went to connect the guitar to the amplifier, trying to play some notes "Come on guys. We have to make up for lost time."

Chuuya watched the man for a few seconds, surprised by the change in attitude compared to before. Seeing that signed contract, however, was enough for him to regain his grit and thanks to it the rehearsals went well. His voice was clear and he was able to reach even high pitches without choking on his saliva or going out of tune. No one ever had to interrupt or correct him and he could see a smile on Odasaku's face as he listened to them.

When at the end of the rehearsal Gin put an arm around Chuuya's shoulders and complimented him, he couldn't prevent the blush on his cheeks.

"Okay okay, listen to me. Now we're going to do the interview. Make sure you all behave yourselves" Odasaku spoke, then turning to Chuuya "you'll stay outside with me in the meantime. You only have to come in for the performance, okay?"

Chuuya nodded and then they all walked towards the recording room together.

Above the red door - the only one in the whole building - there was the On air symbol which was still off. As soon as they entered Kimura turned to them with a smile.

"Here's my favorite band. So happy to see you guys again" he exclaimed, spreading his arms as he looked around for Chuuya and when he found him he seemed to freeze. "Oh, dear. I understand your concern now"

Chuuya gulped and then bowed to the man. "Good afternoon, Sir. I'm glad you still remember me."

"Chuuya dear, of course I remember you. It's not easy to forget a dear friend's son. What brings you back to Japan from your studies? You dropped out to devote yourself to music. I'm surprised your father acc-"

"Kimura. I think it would be better if we hurry or we risk delaying the broadcast" Dazai blocked the flow of questions with the usual courtesy mask on his face. If Chuuya had learned anything that day it was that Dazai Osamu always had a ready answer for any situation.

"Yes, you're right. We'll talk later then, Chuuya" The man smiled, highlighting his wrinkles and then invited the group to enter. The sign lit up and Chuuya could hear and see them through the glass as he sat next to Odasaku on the white couch.

"Dazai didn't tell me why he had to threaten Kimura, but I think you should know that he would have given up on the interview if he refused to sign." Odasaku said after minutes of silence between them. Tachihara in the background commented on Ryu's sentence with a joke, making the speaker laugh.

"Yes, but he threatened me too before being nice. He would have refused the interview, but then he would have made sure to see my life ruined. That man scares me a little, honestly." Chuuya looked over at him of the glass, wanting to strike that sharp jaw with all his strength.

"That's the way he is. I wouldn't let him do that by the way. The band would understand and he would too after a while." He puts an hand on his shoulder, then starts answering some work email as usual.

"I'm nervous" Chuuya spoke again. His gaze didn't leave Dazai that was talking about a possible future tour. Odasaku didn't answer as an invitation to continue the conversation. "What if I screw it up?"

"You won't spoil anything. Do as you did in rehearsal and everyone will love you. Everyone will be talking about the mysterious lead singer of the Stray dogs"

"You believe too much in people, Odasaku. You risk being disappointed one day" Chuuya chuckled and the other just shrugged. Kimura talked, attracting their attention.

"Dazai. Your face has been making the rounds on social media lately thanks to those videos at the bar. Do you happen to have something to say to the audience?"

Chuuya swallowed, straightening his back. He really hoped Dazai was ready for that too and it seemed he was because he smiled in amusement.

"I have seen those videos and I must say that I always appreciate the concern and imagination of our fans, but there is no need to worry. The boy who was with me is a dear friend of mine whom I haven't seen for a long time. The joy of seeing each other again it made us go back to being kids, making me forget I was in public. Both he and I apologize for any concern."

"So can we reassure the fans out there that the famous Dazai Osamu is still available?" Kimura said in an amused tone.

"I will always be free for my fans. Nothing is more important than them."

The discussion then moved on to other topics that Chuuya didn't really bother to listen to. His mind was taken to a scenario where him and Dazai had been friends since childhood and he considered himself lucky that it wasn't reality.

After ten minutes the interview ended, announcing a short break before the continuation of the live broadcast. The On Air sign went out and everyone walked out of the hall, first Tachihara with thumbs up at Chuuya and a big smile.

Odasaku congratulated everyone and Kimura did the same, then approaching Chuuya to be able to talk to him again. With a quick gesture, the redhead motioned for Dazai to let him do it for now.

“I want you to know that I won't tell your parents anything. Losing these guys and going against Mori's agency would just be bad for me,” he said. Chuuya smiled, bowing his head in recognition.

"Thank you, Mr. Kimura. I really appreciate it."

"So you're turning to music. When you become famous I'll definitely interview you. You'll be my favorite guest! How do you like your coffee? I have a machine in my studio that's-" Chuuya stopped him before he started talking too much again.

“I'm honored, but I don't think it's going to happen. I'm here to do a favor and that's it.” He laughed even though it hurt his chest a little because he knew it was the truth. He wanted a career, but he would be too exposed for his liking.

"What a pity. I'll still cheer for you, Chuuya. You would capture the hearts of thousands of girls with this face of yours" Kimura laughed and then stood up, going to Dazai again. Chuuya did the same too, feeling all the agitation leave his body.

The break lasted fifteen minutes and in a short time Chuuya found himself again in front of the microphone with Dazai next to him and the band further behind. What was besides the window was now Odasaku who smiled at him encouragingly.

"We're back and now you're listening to Stray Dogs."

Tachihara and Gin played the Intro together and Chuuya breathed deeply, then began to sing to the best of his ability.

♫

"A toast to Chuuya" They all exclaimed together at the pub table, clashing their glasses. Chuuya laughed in embarrassment, then drank to hide the blush.

The recording of the song had gone well without Chuuya making any mistakes and social media seemed to go crazy for the group's new voice. There were thousands of comments asking who was the mysterious face behind the microphone. Kimura also complimented him at the end, telling him he'd look forward to his debut day.

After returning the instruments and the van to the agency, they all opted for a group outing which Albatross also joined at the request of Chuuya and Tachihara. After all, someone was needed to bring the two boys home if they were too drunk.

The bar they had chosen was more secluded than Sigma's and they had reserved a private room. Chuuya sat with Tachihara and Albatross, but most of the time he leaned across the table to talk to Gin and Odasaku, forcing the blond to drag him onto the couch again.

Dazai who, ironically, still sat across from him noticed Chuuya's red cheeks from drinks and how at one point he gave up on rebelling against Albatross, resting his head on his shoulder. The man just laughed and stroked his hair. This was enough to confirm Dazai's theory that these two were together.

"He collapsed. Luckily he has the afternoon shift tomorrow or he would have killed me" Albatross laughed again, before getting up and taking Chuuya in his arms like a bride "It was a real pleasure to meet you, but it's time to taking him home. I hope to see you again one day" Odasaku stood up, offering to lead the way to the car. Everyone greeted him with smiles on their faces, especially Gin and Tachihara.

Dazai just waved his hand as he took another sip of whisky.

"The pleasure was ours. Chuuya really got us out of a bad situation with our boss. To repay my debt, I'll make sure you get VIP tickets for the next tour," Odasaku said.

"That's very kind of you, but would you mind giving us six? The rest of the guys in our group are your fans too" he asked, then ducking down to put Chuuya in the passenger seat.

"No problem. Tell Chuuya that I hope to see him again soon and that we are really grateful for his help" Odasaku closed the door and went back into the club to continue drinking with the others when the car disappeared down the street.

About a month has passed since that evening. Chuuya went back to his normal life with bar shifts, night outs with flags or with Q at Extasy.

There were occasions when Gin and Tachihara managed to free themselves from band commitments and went out together for a drink or else. A day of shopping between Lippmann, Chuuya and Gin was enough to show how much time and money someone could spend in a single clothing store.

In room 14b of Mori Corp, on the other hand, new and old songs were practiced every day looking for a new singer. Odasaku and Dazai spent days auditioning without much result and those who seemed right failed to fit well with the style of the group. One didn't play well with Gin, another with Dazai, one with Tachihara and so on. None seemed suitable.

“At this point we'll find someone suitable the day we disbandment” Dazai muttered, leaning against the wall as he pulled a cigarette out of the pack.

Odasaku chuckled, holding out the lighter to light it for him. He then stole one for himself as he looked up at the sunny sky above them. Suddenly a ring interrupted the silence. It was form Odasaku's phone.

"Boss?" Dazai looked at him, curious but the call only lasted a few seconds and his friend didn't speak at all.

"I have to go. Who knows what he'll want to complain about today" He laughed and so did Dazai, coughing up smoke.

"Oh, let me guess. Sakunosuke I noticed how the band hasn't found a singer yet. Is Dazai still as fussy as he used to be?" Mori's perfect imitation made Odasaku laugh even more.

"Probably he'll tell me about that. Have you ever thought of asking Chuuya if he would be interested in a position as a regular singer?" he asked as if it were the most normal question in the world, but that name alone was enough to give Dazai hives.

“Not even dead. He's feisty, loud, annoying...” he took another drag. The tobacco didn't have the sweet taste it had ten seconds ago.

"But he's also talented, responsive, he fits in well with everyone and the band already loves him. Sure, Ryu struggles a bit to show it, but what I'm trying to say is that he would be perfect for us" He looked at him, deflecting Dazai's eyes "Osamu, come on"

"A rapper? Stop joking, Odasaku. He'll never sing for us again." He put out his cigarette, leaving it in the ashtray, then returning to the building to go to the rehearsal room. Odasaku sighed in resignation, but followed him towards the top floor for his meeting with Mori.

When he was invited in he noticed two things. The first was Elise sitting on the sofa with the headphones.

And the second...

"Chuuya? What are you doing here?" Astonishment could only fill Odasaku's face at the sight of the boy sitting at the desk with Mori.

"Sakunosuke. Well, you've arrived. Please sit down" Mori welcomed him with a smile, pointing to the other free seat next to Chuuya. "In the last month I have noticed the increase in posts and plays of Stray dogs music after Kimura's radio interview. After listening carefully to the performance, I took the liberty of checking the surveillance cameras and obtaining the information contact details of Mr. Nakahara from the file you gave me on him" The man showed the open files in front of him "I saw a future in this boy as I did eleven years ago with Dazai and Mr. Nakahara was happy to accept my proposal."

Odasaku was amazed by all the information. He looked at Chuuya and then at Mori several times. "Oh God. Chuuya congratulations. I'm happy you can debut." He smiles and Chuuya did the same, just not being able to stay professional.

"But as you well know I'm a businessman and I'd love to kill two birds with one stone. Sakunosuke - I'd like your opinion - how about Chuuya becoming your singer until his debut as a rapper? This would temporarily solve the absence of a stable voice and increase yours and Chuuya's fame at the time of debut"

"Excuse me again, but I still think that is exploiting them for my own good. Isn't that wrong?" Chuuya spoke first.

"Not if they're making money too. In reality, all this is more to their advantage than to you, also because I've never taken the road of rap with my artists. So what do you think?" Mori waited for an answer.

"As I said before, If it's okay with them I suppose I can put up with that idiot Dazai for a few months" Chuuya muttered, then looking at Odasaku.

"For me it's a great idea, but I want to decide together with the band. I can't make this choice by myself"

"Of course. I didn't expect an immediate response. Go to the others and let me know by the end of the day. Chuuya, I'll have your manager contact you in the afternoon. Welcome to Mori Corp." Mori stood up, walking over to Elise as a clear sign that both men could leave.

"So…we'll still be working together it seems" Odasaku talked first as they entered the elevator, heading for the usual floor.

"I guess so. Will the others be fine with that?" Chuuya asked, hesitant that they would only want to then be left again. "

Tachihara and Gin will jump on you and Akutagawa is fine with anyone who has talent. Dazai, well...he won't be over the moon, but he'll understand that it's for the best" He stroked his shoulder, inviting him to go out first when the doors opened. In a few minutes they were at the door and Odasaku asked him to stay outside for a second to surprise the members.

When he opened the door he was glad to see them all there setting up their instruments to rehearse. He cleared his throat, getting their attention. Tachihara even stopped with a piece of drums in his hands.

"Important announcement. I've found our new singer for the next few months" he exclaimed proudly, making Dazai look up from his guitar, suspicious.

"Fuck no. Don't tell me that-"

"Chuuya is back!" He exclaimed before Dazai could finish, pulling the boy to the door so that everyone could see. The redhead just smiled embarrassed, waving his hand at them.

For the first time in his life Dazai wanted to punch Odasaku really hard while seeing Tachihara and Gin jump into Chuuya's arms.

Chapter Text

Chuuya already knew Mori Ougai due to his fame. He had often heard about him on Extasy and sometimes from the Sheep, as well as reading about him online or in radio and TV interviews.

So he wasn't a complete stranger in Chuuya's eyes, but he never expected to receive a call from him in person. When the phone rang it was 9 a.m on Chuuya's day off and that made him answer the call gruffly. An answer that immediately changed when the man introduced himself, inviting the redhead to join him in his office that same afternoon.

This is how Chuuya found himself back at Mori Corp - a month after the last time - and in the penthouse in front of the dream of many artists.

Mori Ougai was, in Chuuya's opinion, a perfect balance between professionalism and reassurance. The elegant suit, the neatly gathered hair and the wrinkles around his eyes gave him that touch of seriousness that it distinguished itself with his gaze and gentle smile. The agitation Chuuya felt in the elevator five minutes ago seemed to have disappeared.

“Nakahara. I would like to apologize for the sudden conversation. I hope I haven't ruined your day.” Mori spoke, serving him a glass of water and taking a dossier from one of the desk drawers.

“Don't worry and just call me Chuuya, please. Everyone does it.” He almost stuttered before taking a sip, not wanting to risk being rude. Mori looked up at him, nodding immediately afterwards.

“Chuuya...alright. So, Chuuya, how did you find collaborating with Stray Dogs?” He asked, aiming directly at the topic, leaving Chuuya stunned for a second. Obviously he knew that he had been called to talk about them, but he hadn't expected such a direct question on the subject.

Throughout the morning there were many thoughts that tormented Chuuya's mind about the reasons Mori could have for calling him to a meeting and none of them were positive. He thought about possible clauses in the contract that he might have broken; to Kimura who had spilled the beans to his parents or to that afternoon when he had stolen Dazai's bottle of water from the mini-fridge in the rehearsal room. But for all those issues he would have been contacted by the agency's lawyers and not by someone like Mori. (Yes, Chuuya was convinced that Dazai could report him for theft for a bottle of water.)

“It was good, Sir. Tachihara has been my friend for years and when he asked me for the favor of helping the band I gladly accepted.” He replied, composing himself and trying to look at the files that Mori continued to browse and read.

"I understand. And what about the members instead? How did they seem to you?”

“Are you asking me this on an artistic level or as a band?”

“Both, why not?”

Chuuya was silent for a few seconds, thinking about how to respond. He had gotten along well with everyone - some more and some less obviously - but should he have said about his little war with Dazai? It was his boss after all and as annoying as the man had been he didn't want to ruin him completely.

“Well....They're all very close as a band, you can tell. As artists they're very professional, obviously. I don't know what else you would want to know from someone like me to be honest.”

Mori finally stopped reading and moved the papers to the side, really looking at Chuuya for the first time since they started the conversation. "You're right, sorry. I needed an outside opinion to evaluate them. I want to control them to avoid disasters as with Lemon Bomb."

Kajii. Just the thought made Chuuya's palms itch from his nervousness. The man had been in Extasy's rap-challenge circle for a month now and was growing in popularity despite his bad rhymes about fruit. He pissed Chuuya off like never before.

“I don't think there's any need to worry. I got on well with everyone and I don't think any of them would ever do anything to ruin the band's reputation. They care too much.” Chuuya didn't even notice the genuine smile that appeared on his face as he remembered the afternoons spent with them.

Mori raised an eyebrow, amused. "Everyone? Are you sure? I heard several rumors talking about the bickering between you and Dazai and there was also that video trending for a few weeks.” He chuckled and Chuuya wanted to sink into his seat out of embarrassment. Obviously Mori already knew everything about their dispute and the video.

“If I created problems for Dazai's public image, I apolog-”

“Don't worry about that. A love scandal is never something serious and it dissolved quickly. In fact it was an excellent idea... I honestly hoped that you had done it on purpose." Mori laughed, drumming his fingers on the desk while Chuuya looked at him confused.

“Excuse me, but I don't think I understand...”

“You see, Chuuya. Stray Dogs recently finished their second world tour and it is normal for bands during this period to do not receive much attention. It's a period of rest and the media boom was in the previous months. Interviews like Kimura's are followed by die-hard fans, but they don't cause a stir" Mori spoke in a calm voice "But your scandal brought many more people to watch the interview and trust me when I tell you that the audience is crazy for your voice."

Chuuya's eyes widened in surprise. He had never dared to look at social media in the days following the performance. He saw the band's name and other related hashtags trending, but he was afraid to read the comments. Whether they were positive, negative, constructive criticism or someone who recognized him, Chuuya didn't want to know. He only noticed a few glances from the people at Extasy and those of Motojiro above all.

"Really? I'm glad. Anyway between me and Dazai there was nothing romantic or anything” he didn't know why he felt the need to make it clear. His cheeks warmed a little. “We have ideas and characters that clash, but on a professional level he has been a great help to me. He prepared my program, attended Hiroko's lessons even if not necessary and much more.”

Chuuya was praying that Mori would believe him and also that he wouldn't mention it to Dazai. Such a speech would only increase his already quite large ego dramatically and would make fun of Chuuya for the rest of his days.

“So you wouldn't be against becoming their singer?” He asked and Chuuya, who was about to take another sip of water, froze with the glass in mid-air not sure if he had understood correctly.

"Excuse me?"

“Would you like to become their singer, Chuuya? You see...I left the formation of the band in Dazai's hands and I have full faith in him, but sometimes I feel that his decisions are clouded and that's why he needs a little push of encouragement. The band and the audience are getting impatient for a singer and with you the band would achieve the necessary balance.”

“I- I thank you, but I'm a rapper, Sir. I don't think I'm the right choice.” Chuuya responded, reluctantly, but only got a head shake from Mori. He took the file again and passed it to Chuuya.

"I know. I read the files that Odasaku sent me and took the liberty of asking Hiroko and listening to your recordings with the band. Also, I agree that you are not a singer and you have a long way to go to be one” He said and Chuuya almost wanted to sink into his seat out again humiliated. “But I don't want to make you their singer permanently. It would take a few months or a year to prepare for your debut."

"Debut?" The feeling of shame was replaced by surprise, making Chuuya believe he had heard wrong for the umpteenth time. Maybe he really needed an ear exam.

“For generations Mori Corp has always only dealt with soloist or bands, but now times have changed and I need to adapt. I want you to be the first rapper to debut under our label."

Silence fell between them. The words just said were making sense in Chuuya's head and Mori didn't rush it, giving him time to think. The only one to move was Elise behind them who made herself comfortable on one of the sofas with headphones, tired of studying and listening to her father's speeches.

“Excuse me, but I don't understand. You just said that you want to find a permanent singer for Stray Dogs. Putting me only for a few months will only postpone the choice.” Chuuya placed the glass on the desk again. Mori just looked at him and smiled slightly.

“You're smart, I like that. I hate to say it, but as popular as Stray Dogs is, fans are getting tired of waiting. I need to find a singer as soon as possible and putting you on for a long period of time will assuage their dissatisfaction and give the band time to find someone suitable to replace you.” His expression was serious and his jaw clenched. His posture had changed. “If you accept it will obviously bring benefits to you too.”

Chuuya knew it. A rapper's first debut in a record label known only for bands and soloists was a risky move. It could be a success or a failure where a lot of money was thrown away so Mori had devised a strategy. Training Chuuya while he was an official member of the band would allow him to gain notoriety and fans, as well as know how to deal with them and the media.

It was a perfect plan and anyone could understand that. Even someone like Chuuya who would never work with Dazai a second time.

As much as he was tempted to refuse, he couldn't pass up an opportunity like that. It was what he had waited for all his life.

"Okay, I'll do it. If it helps make my debut below your company I am ready to deal with Dazai.” The confident tone and eyes burning with passion made Mori smile and he promptly took the phone to summon Odasaku.

“Good choice, Chuuya. While we wait, I'll have you sign the required documents."

Filling out the various papers hadn't taken much time since they were the same ones that Odasaku had made him sign the month before. They were just much longer and with specific details about confidentiality, approximate working hours and more”

Once the last sheet had been signed, the documents were taken by Mori and placed in a drawer. Meanwhile, two knocks on the door attracted their attention. Once invited in, Odasaku entered, immediately freezing at the sight of Chuuya.

The redhead greeted him with a simple nod. He would have liked to do it with more emphasis since they hadn't seen each other for a month and also apologize for the Albatross ticket story, but he didn't want to ruin the image of professionalism with Mori. Not yet, at least.

The rest of the meeting didn't last long. Mori simply informed Odasaku of his proposal and demanded a response from the band by the end of the day, dismissing them both soon after to go to Elise.

The journey to the rehearsal room passed in general silence, other than the exchange of a couple of sentences between them. Odasaku seemed calm about informing the band about Chuuya's return, but the same couldn't be said of him. Against all his expectations – and he would never admit it out loud – Chuuya was nervous about a possible rejection from them.

He knew that even if they refused he would still have a place at Mori Corp, training like any other trainee, yet the very idea was making his stomach turn.

It didn't take him long to realize that his fear was completely unfounded. As soon as Odasaku dragged him out in front of the other members he found himself crushed in Gin and Tachihara's arms. In the background he could feel Akutagawa's gaze and imagine how he was shaking his head with a small smile on his face.

On the other side...

As soon as he was freed from the two's grip, Chuuya's eyes immediately looked for Dazai. The man was sitting on one of the amplifiers with the guitar in his hand and looking towards Chuuya. And by far he didn't have a happy expression while looking at him.

“Okay, meeting” Dazai sighed and put his guitar down, getting up to walk towards the break room. Soon everyone followed, Chuuya dragged by Gin. “So…what is this story exactly?”

“Well, Mori summoned me because-” Odasaku spoke, but was cut off by Dazai with a wave of his hand.

“No, Odasaku. I want to hear it from him. You always convince me to do what you want.” He snorted and sat back with his arms folded, focusing his eyes on Chuuya. The redhead raised his eyebrows, surprised by the sudden request.

“Mori made me sign with the label as a rapper” He began, getting compliments from Gin and a pat on the back from Tachihara “But he also said that my training period will be done by you as a singer.”

“So you would be our singer for a few months and then when you no longer need us you would throw us away? That's what you're saying, basically.” His tone of voice hardened as did his gaze. Chuuya almost wanted to laugh.

“Like I need you to become a good artist, Dazai. It was Mori's idea so do acid with him and not with me.” The comeback didn't seem to please Dazai who stiffened, looking at the redhead as if his eyes could spit poison.

Before he could respond however Odasaku stopped them both, standing up.

“Okay, don't start it. I didn't miss your fights at all.” He sighed in exasperation, not failing to glare at Akutagawa when he whispered “I did.”

“It's not about who uses who at this point. To be honest, we would be more likely to use Chuuya than the other way around" Odasaku continued. "And no one is forcing us to accept this. Mori said we can refuse."

“Then we refuse and end of story. He will find other people to exploit.” Dazai exclaimed, getting up from the couch. Tachihara was the first to react, also standing up to face him.

“Don't you think it's something we should all decide together, Dazai. It's not just you in this band.” He said, gesturing with his arm to the rest of the members still sitting.

Dazai turned to look at him, putting hiS hands in his pants pockets. “Yes, but I am a leader.”

“You seem more like a tyrant right now.”

“What the fuck did you just say?”

“Okay okay, let's all calm down. Dazai, may I have a word?” Odasaku placed himself between them, then taking the brunette by the arm and dragging him out. Chuuya and the others looked at each other. Tachihara sighed, sat down and placing a hand on the friend's shoulder for support.

Chuuya nodded, telling him not to worry. Dazai's words hadn't touched him. He knew about the man's revulsion for him and it was mutual. Chuuya would never feel bad about something that came out of Dazai's mouth, yet that strange feeling in his stomach was back.

Meanwhile outside the room Dazai had removed his arm from Odasaku's grip with a sudden movement, leaning against the wall.

“I don't understand why you're all going against me. It's clearly a bad idea to have that brat in our band.” He snorted, taking a cigarette from the pack even though he couldn't smoke inside. His hands were itching though and he needed to tinker with something as well as smoke. “And then did you hear how Tachihara called me? Incredible."

“He was just defending his friend who you attack for no reason. Chuuya would be a great addition to our band, but you're too focused on your hatred for him and his passion.” The words came out harsher than Odasaku would have liked.

“I can separate work from feelings, Odasaku. Clearly something he doesn't know how to do. Of course he would accept Chuuya since they are friends, but I need a singer. Not the first rapper who comes to my door and who Mori believes is a future world star."

“Are you sure you can really do it? It seems to me that you're just exaggerating."

“Whose side are you on?!” Dazai blurted out, starting to tap his foot and twist the cigarette between his fingers.

“On the band's side and I know that Chuuya as a singer is better than nothing for us and I know you know it too. You're just too proud to admit it, but by doing so you'd be missing an opportunity that won't come again.” Odasaku stated, continuing when he got no response. “It's only a matter of a few months, even less as you think, knowing about that boy's abilities. Ignore your hatred for a moment and make the band and fans happy."

Dazai continued not to speak, moving his gaze towards the door at the end of the hallway that led to the terrace. He rolled his eyes and placed the cigarette between his lips, walking towards it.

“I need to smoke. We'll talk about it when I get back, but in the meantime nothing is official. However, the last word is up to me."

He quickly reached the terrace and looking back he noticed how Odsaku was no longer in the hallway waiting for him. As soon as he opened the door the wind hit him immediately, along with the heat of the late summer sun. Even though it was September the sun was still warm enough to go out without a jacket.

The first drag of the cigarette was miraculous for Dazai's nerves. He leaned against the railing, looking down at Tokyo while he smoked and thought. His thoughts fixate on a certain redhead that he would never have wanted to meet again in his life, on his perfect voice together with Gin's bass and his guitar and on that smile that more than once had occupied his mind in the last month.

As much as he hated the idea and agreeing with Tachihara, he knew that the choice had to be the band's and not just his. He knew that keeping Chuuya for a period of time was better than nothing and would actually make the band grow in popularity. Dazai knew it, but he didn't want to accept it. He couldn't deal with it for months without going crazy.

Without even realizing it, one cigarette became two which he consumed quickly with long drags. He was about to take a third, when he realized the others were probably waiting for him. He sighed and put it back in the package, walking back inside and leaving the sweet breeze behind him.

When he entered the rehearsal room again the only one still sitting on the couches was Akutagawa. Meanwhile, the others were gathered around Gin's station while Odasaku was talking on the phone with someone in a corner. Soft chatter and laughter were audible from the trio, clearly unaware of his return.

Dazai ignored the nod from Akutagawa and cleared his throat to get their attention. It seemed to work as all three fell silent, turning to listen to him. His eyes were trained on the center where Chuuya was, held in Tachihara's grip around his shoulders. He looked at him for a few seconds and the more time passed the more that idea seemed right to him. The more he looked at the redhead and more he blended in perfectly with the others, with the instruments and with the rest of the room. God, that red hair under the stage lights would have been spectacular.

Anyway...

“I have some conditions.” He spoke after moments of silence. Chuuya simply nodded.

“Do some bullshit and you're out. I don't care if we haven't already found a singer. The second is that you don't have to get caught by the media in Extasy. If I see even one post about it you're out as well."

Chuuya remained silent for a few seconds, nodding again as he freed himself from the his friend's grip to get closer to Daza.i “It seems correct. Deal."

“Actually I have a condition too” Odasaku said with a sigh as he put the phone in his pocket. “May you two stop arguing every time you see each other. You know...for the well-being of the band and my mental health."

They both looked into each other's eyes and then wrinkled their noses in disgust.

“I don't promise anything, but I'll try” Chuuya.

“Not even dead.” Dazai.

“Ah?! What the fuck is wrong with you, loser?!” Chuuya yelled in response, causing Odasaku to collapse onto the couch exhausted and the others to laugh. The argument went on for a few minutes, but was interrupted by insistent knocks on the door.

They all looked at each other in confusion as Dazai moved to open the door. If the room had not been soundproofed they would have thought of a complaint for disturbing the peace.

Once opened, a man appeared in the doorway. He wore an elegant and impeccable suit with a perfectly knotted red tie. He wore a pair of sophisticated-rimmed glasses and his long blond hair was pulled back into a low ponytail.

“Sorry for the inconvenience. I'm here for my client, Nakahara Chuuya.” His voice was low and serious, while his posture was straight as a stick. Chuuya thought that maybe it was really like that because he had it up his ass.

“Kunikida? You're the one who has to put up with the brat.” Dazai put a hand on the manager's shoulder. “I feel bad for you, man.”

“Shut your trap for once, Dazai. I'm here in an official way so let me talk to my client.” The man's abrupt response made the brunet pout, but it also gained Chuuya's respect.

Screw that, I love this man. He thought, as he walked over and bowed, introducing himself. Kunikida did the same while he was adjusting his glasses.

“We need to talk about your activities both as soloist as with the band. I hope you know that it will be taking up most of your days for the next months. If you have a job I advise you to leave it and if you study we will find a solution with our private teachers."

“I'm not studying, but I have a job. I wish I could continue at least for a few days so I don't get my boss and my colleague in trouble” He said, getting a long look from the blonde before he nodded.

“Okay, but not too long. I don't want you tired during rehearsals. I think we can all agree on this.” He stared at the rest of the band who nodded. “This evening I will draw up a perfect agenda for all your activities – Odasaku's help would be very welcome for the band's commitments – I inform you that I demand maximum seriousness and punctuality in commitments."

The more the man talked, the more Chuuya's head was about to explode, making him regret having accepted the contract with the agency. He would've hate Kunikida by the end of the week.

He turned to look at the others and found them giggling and shaking their heads as they went back to their activities and Chuuya was grabbed by the arm and dragged out by Kunikida who said something about them being late. From his seat Gin gave him a good luck with an added wink.

Chuuya's hell had officially just begun.

Chapter Text

Since the first five minutes spent with his new manager, Kunikida Doppo, Chuuya had understood that dealing with him would've been difficult. After all, he had never gotten along with workaholics.

The blond had grabbed his arm and pulled him away from the rest of the band, walking towards the elevator with firm and fast steps. Meanwhile he mumbled something, scrolling through his phone with his free hand, only letting go when the doors closed. He pressed one of the elevator buttons and it began to go down.

Chuuya took the time of the short journey to get a better look at him. The first thing he noticed was the awkward height gap they had—he had to be at least 6'2 or maybe more—and the serious look on his face. He was looking straight ahead with his eyes fixed on the doors and his jaw clenched.

"So? Where exactly are we going?" He asked and before the man could grab him again he moved first, exiting the elevator. He had never been on that floor, but it was definitely livelier than the twenty-seventh. It was a large open space with lots of people walking quickly, dragging along tools, briefcases, clothes and who knows what else. It was like being on a movie set. As Chuuya hurriedly kept up with Kunikida's long strides—damn him and his legs—he also looked around. He almost collided with a boy who quickly apologized before running away again.

"What is this place?" He asked again, finally standing next to Kunikida who had stopped in front of one of the stations. It was simple, with five director's chairs in a row, white lights around each one and carts full of makeup and beauty products. It was probably the only place on that floor where people weren't running around like crazy. The seated girl was relaxed and with her eyes closed as she let her makeup be done, while the makeup artist, with her back turned to Kunikida and Chuuya, precisely applied a wisp of eyeliner.

When she turned towards them the redhead was surprised to see her without make-up. Not that she was ugly without it, on the contrary. She was young, probably the same age as him, with Caucasian features and caramel hair tied in two braids. She took a quick look at Chuuya before focusing on Kunikida.

"If you're here for Sasaki again I swear I'll kill you, Kunikida." She said, then turning to grab another product from the cart.

"The promotional photos need to be ready by next week and we still don't know what kind of makeup you decided to do on her. Higuchi needs to know it to choose the clothes." Kunikida hinted, adjusting his glasses for the umpteenth time. The girl simply raised an eyebrow and resumed her work.

"We have been given the theme. She can follow it without depending on me." She huffed, then sighing when the man cleared his throat. "Anyway, I worked on it last night so we can do a rehearsal anytime. You know my schedule. Who is he anyway?"

"Just a new acquisition from Mori. It's too early for you to get your hands on him, Denise." Kunikida said, then taking the phone. Denise simply looked towards Chuuya and stared at him for a few seconds, pouting immediately afterwards.

"What a pity. He's cute," she sighed, then turning back again and paying attention to the other girl who also had opened an eye to look at him. Chuuya simply smiled at them both, introducing himself more out of politeness than anything else. They didn't seem very interesting as neither of them responded.

"We're free tomorrow at three if that's okay with you." Kunikida replied and got a simple nod. Apparently that was enough for him as he quickly took his leave, retracing his steps. They made their way back to the elevator in silence and at a decidedly high speed for a simple walk. Once back in the elevator and behind closed doors Chuuya grabbed Kunikida by the tie, pulling him down to look at him.

"What are you doing, Nakahara?" He asked, unperturbed. Chuuya's eye almost twitched from the nervousness the man was causing him.

"I don't know, but maybe you'll pay attention to me if I do this. You didn't answer a single one of my questions, dragging me around like a dog for your other artists!" Chuuya hissed, then was pushed away by Kunikida who sighed.

"Sorry, you're right. I should have done it before introducing myself to you, but I didn't want to risk not finding you with the band." He stood up straight, fixing his tie. “Not a good first impression, I guess.”

Chuuya snorted a laugh, crossing his arms. "Not at all, but whatever. That Denise seems to be a tough nut to crack." Kunikida laughed, taking off his glasses and rubbing the bridge of his nose.

"Call it a rebellious spirit, but she's good at her job. I always rely on her so you'll have to deal with it too. Not for a few months though given Stray Dogs has its own hair and makeup crew."

"Understood. So, where are we going now?" Chuuya asked, diverting the topic that really didn't interest him. He would worry about the woman in due time.

“In my office. Let's talk about you now.”

♫

Chuuya's shift at the bar the next morning seemed to be longer and more tiring than any he had ever had. Not having had the chance to enjoy his day off between the hours spent at the agency and the night out with the Flags as a celebration of his hiring, he had woken up with few hours of sleep and a slight hangover.

The hours passed slowly also due to the low flow of customers, allowing him to clean up a bit and think about what to say to Kouyou and Louisa. The fact that he also had to do it quickly because he had to be at the agency didn't make it any better.

“Good morning, Chuuya. How was your day off? Good morning to you too, Kouyou.” As soon as she came in Louisa greeted him, rummaging in her handbag to get the apron. Chuuya did the same with a smile while serving coffee to a costumer.

“Good, but I've to tell you about something that happened yesterday. It's urgent, actually." He muttered, taking off his apron. Kouyou and Louisa immediately raised their heads, inviting him to continue his speech. A lump formed in his throat.

“I was offered a job as a rapper in an agency and I accepted. Due to commitments I can no longer work here, sorry." He said and for a moment no one replied. Kouyou placed the phone on the counter and Louisa simply looked at him in surprise. “I'll stay for a few days while you find someone else obviously. I'm sorry to leave you, but...”

“You don't owe us any explanations, Chuuya. We know it's your dream,” the woman said, then taking a sip of tea. “It will be weird not seeing you here every day, though. Customers will miss you too.”

"Right. Who did get you anyway? I bet it's a very big agency.” Louisa giggled, as she stepped behind the counter to officially replace him on the shift. “I don't know...maybe the Stray Dogs' one.” She winked.

“Oh, that would be amazing. Aren't those guys super famous? I often hear them on the radio.” Kouyou said, looking at Chuuya who shrugged.

“Sorry, can't answer. Nondisclosure agreement and shit like that, so you'll have to wait until I debut to find out.” He laughed at their complaints, even though he knew Louisa had already found out. Then looking at the time he forced himself to say goodbye and run down the road on his motorbike to stop for a bite to eat.

Deciding where to go was easy and, as soon as he entered, Sigma greeted him with a big smile.

“Chuuya! Long time no see! What can I do for you today?” He asked, setting down one of the glasses he was cleaning as the redhead sat down at the counter so they could chat a bit. If his guess was right he still had half an hour before he could officially consider himself late.

“I'll have a toast and a soda. To your liking, I trust you.”

"All right. I'll give you my favorite then, but I'm a vegetarian. Is it still okay?” Chuuya nodded and waited patiently, watching him prepared everything. Not even five minutes and he had his lunch and an “enjoy your meal” from the bartender.

“I was sad not to see you come by anymore. I thought there was trouble between you and Dazai because of that story.” Sigma said after minutes of silence where Chuuya was enjoying his lunch and he started cleaning again.

“No, I simply live far from here and don't frequent this district much. I miss your cooking by the way.” He smiled at him and Sigma simply shook his head.

“Just a sandwich, nothing special. But thank you and I hope to see you here more often. Maybe without Dazai disturbing the other customers this time.” He laughed, making the redhead shift his gaze.

“Yeah, about that…I apologize. Sometimes I forget that Dazai is famous and our bickering could create unnecessary scandals.” Chuuya muttered, rolling his eyes and taking a more significant bite of the toast. Sigma just chuckled.

“It can happen between old friends and no one has ever seen Dazai so distraught. You must have a close bond if he acts like this.” He said, then going to serve a customer who had just arrived. Chuuya simply hid a disgusted expression in the can.

“You have no idea,” He faked a laugh and then stood up, leaving the money on the counter. “Anyway, I have to run now, see you.”

It didn't take long to reach Mori Corp and the checks were as quick as he remembered them. A strange feeling filled his stomach when he passed the badge on the scanner at his entrance and realized that it was really his and not one he had temporarily borrowed. Realizing he was one of the Mori Corp's artists. That made him walk happily towards the elevators, but unfortunately for him that feeling didn't last long considering who was waiting for the ride like him.

Dazai had his back turned with one hand in his pocket and the other holding a takeaway cup. The headphones and other people waiting prevented him from noticing Chuuya's presence a few meters away and Chuuya decided to keep things that way.

The elevator ride went smoothly too, until they both got off at the floor. Dazai looked to the side, surprised to see Chuuya with him.

“Were you there?” He asked, stopping the music.

“Yeah” Chuuya replied as he started walking towards the practice room with Dazai on his side.

“Did you see me?”

“No, not at all,” he lied.

“Yeah, me neither. Makes sense given your height” Dazai laughed, getting a snort from the redhead. “Try wearing heels from now on.”

“I'd stomp on your scrotum if I had them, asshole. Don't challenge me."

“Kinky, but no thanks. Be a woman and I could let you do it." Chuuya looked at him in disgust and increased his pace, reaching room 14b and entering. Luckily everyone was already there so Chuuya was able to get rid of Dazai and go sit between Gin and Tachihara. Dazai instead remained standing, leaning against the wall and taking a sip of coffee every now and then.

Odasaku stood up, speaking with a clearing of his throat. “Okay guys. Last night Kunikida and I came up with a plan for Chuuya. He will rehearse with us six afternoons a week while in the morning he will take care of his solo activities. Except for performances, events or emergencies the evening is free. Kunikida sent you the file, right?”

Chuuya nodded at that awful reminder. That infernal form – and it was just the generic one – had been the first thing he had read that morning and he could swear he'd never seen so much precision in a program before. Kunikida had also given him a time - complete with seconds - to have breakfast.

The 10pm bedtime was also very funny. Chuuya would've never respect it and he already knew that.

The second one, instead, concerned about what he would do for his trainee activities and it varied every week. For those six days all hours were occupied by repeated singing, rap and dance lessons. Chuuya read both files several times and was convinced that he could do it. That he would have done even worse to make his dream come true, but he soon realized that it would've be more difficult than expected.

♫

Given his previous request to continue working at Kouyou for a few more days, the normal morning dance and singing lessons were postponed in the evening.

This meant he had to wake up at 4 a.m. so he could open the bar and work until lunch; a quick meal at Sigma's or takeaway and then off to the band. There were days when he rehearsed with them and others when he trained his voice with Hiroko who happily took him under her wing. (She was less happy dealing with Dazai though). He stayed with them until 7 p.m. and not even the time to eat that he was taken up by Kunikida to train again and again with other teachers. When he returned home it was already midnight and he collapsed exhausted on the bed, well aware that he would have to wake up less than four hours later.

After a few days the first signs of weakness hit him. He made small mistakes at work, skipped lunch so he could get some sleep in the rehearsal room and he was less receptive. Kunikida had tried to convince him to quit the bar, but Chuuya was determined. It was only for a few days and he would've make it.

Despite the tiredness and pain caused by the intense dance lessons, Chuuya didn't hate his days at all. Sure they were heavy and repetitive – he almost wanted to shoot himself when Hiroko made him repeat the same verse for at least an hour – but for the first time in a while he was doing something for himself. He was doing something that, as senseless and insignificant as it might seem, was bringing him one step closer to his dream.

He also got along well with the teachers. There were four of them and they taught rap, singing, dancing and behavioral lessons. However, the last one was giving him quite a few problems. She was a middle-aged Japanese woman with a stern look, hair perfectly tied in a low bun and a stiff posture. The way she spoke and walked reminded him of his piano teacher as a child. It felt like had gone back in time.

Her job was to teach him the art of composure. She told him how to sit, move and talk, scolding him every time Chuuya was basically himself. She even tried to make him dress differently, but Chuuya would be damned if he agreed to dress the way she wanted.

Yet she was also a kind woman outside the sphere of teaching and a great lover of tea and botany. Chuuya had guessed it given her habit of comparing him to plants and flowers.

“You're too abrupt. Be a flower not a cactus, Nakahara.”

“Every time you move I think of you as a rose. I hate them, they always sting me.”

Such a sweet woman.

But Chuuya didn't want to think about it, at least not that evening. It was in fact the first one in a week which he was free to do whatever he wanted. He had left Kouyou and Louisa the day before with the promise to visit them as often as possible and the next day he would only have band rehearsals in the afternoon. He could then take advantage of it and go out with the Flags to Extasy or catch up on lost sleep.

In the end he did neither.

“Chuuya!” Gin called out to him as he was putting on his jacket and grabbing the helmet as practice was officially over for the day. As soon as he turned around, Chuuya immediately had a bad feeling seeing them all close together talking. “Are you joining us tonight? Let's get some food and then get drunk at Dazai's house.”

"I don't know. The Flags and I were thinking of going out.” He muttered. An apologetic smile appeared on his face, but Tachihara snorted.

“No way. We have to celebrate your joining the band. Tonight you are with us."

“But-” Chuuya raised an eyebrow, annoyed. However, he didn't have time to object.

“With us, I said. You have to celebrate with us too and it wouldn't be a real band night without you.” He insisted and Chuuya looked over the others who nodded. Even Dazai though he hadn't failed to sigh.

Chuuya then gave up, nodding. He then turned to Dazai. “If I have to. Do you have red wine or are you completely a devil's beast?”

“I have whiskey, vodka, rum and some beers. I don't keep that crap in my house.” He mumbled, getting a disgusted look from the redhead.

“Taste some real Italian wine and then we'll talk about it again.” Chuuya sighed, then opening the door and remaining in the doorway. “Send me the address. I'll stop to get a bottle on the road. Do you guys choose what to order?”

When he got confirmation he bid them farewell and left, leaving them alone. It didn't take long to get Dazai's address. It was quite far from the agency contrary to his expectations, but it was fine. He often wandered around that area so he knew how to get there and where to stop for wine and cigarettes.

But first he needed to go home and wash up a bit, enjoying the hot water now that motorbike rides were starting to make him shiver, especially in the evening. Luckily Albatross wasn't home so he wouldn't risk wasting time talking to him.

It took him an hour, but he finally reached Dazai's house. It was a rather expensive apartment complex – that's something Chuuya expected – and with also an elevator.

As he went up to the floor indicated in the text Chuuya leaned against the wall, closing his eyes. Tiredness invaded his body and the hot shower had only increased the sensation, but he hadn't been able to refuse the invitation. He was regretting it a little.

What brought him out of his thoughts was the sound of the elevator and the doors opening in front of him. The hallway was long and elegant with red walls and white trim. It was also empty and Dazai's apartment was one of the first ones so it didn't take him long to find it.

It was him who opened the door and Chuuya immediately noticed how he had changed into more comfortable clothes just as he also had decided to do. If Dazai always had a domestic style now he looked even more so with the sweatpants and the oversize white t-shirt. The tattoo of a kitsune perfectly visible on the right arm.

“Leave your shoes and don't smoke inside the house. These are the only rules.” He said, then taking the bag with the wine to bring it to the kitchen. “The others are in the living room, come join them.”

Chuuya walked in, closing the door behind him. He watched Dazai's back until he disappeared around a corner and then took off his shoes. Then it was enough to walk down the hall to immediately find himself in the living room where everyone was gathered. It was decidedly spacious and with a large window overlooking the city. The two white sofas in the center were occupied by the guys and the glass table that separated them was bare except for one bottle of whiskey, four of beer and two of vodka. One wall was completely occupied by the central fireplace with the TV above and two display cases on the side, containing precious-looking bottles. The whole space was illuminated by three lamps, thus leaving a softer atmosphere.

“Do you want to stay here with your mouth open all night?” Dazai asked, having just emerged from the adjacent kitchen. He was behind him so Chuuya had to turn around to look at him, noticing how he was holding his bottle and some glasses in his hands.

The redhead just rolled his eyes and finally moved, going to sit next to Odasaku. The carpet under his feet felt like a blessing and was also perfect to sit on. He would definitely do it later while they were drinking.

"I am hungry." Gin broke the silence with a long sigh, even lengthening the last syllable as a sign of distress. “How long does the delivery guy take? I could eat the couch.”

“Please don't do that.” Dazai laughed, sitting next to Chuuya and taking up the last available space. It wasn't the first time they were so close – that times in the rehearsal room and in the van were examples – but it was always strange to Chuuya. He expected to feel nerves on edge or a sense of annoyance yet both his mind and body were relaxed and the same could be said of Dazai.

His posture was relaxed and comfortable against the couch. His legs spread apart and his arm along the backrest and behind Chuuya's head as if it were a natural position. With his free hand he was scrolling the phone, his gaze focused on the screen. “It says he should be here in less than five minutes.” He said, getting a frustrated sigh from the girl.

“It better be the best pizza in the fucking universe.”

"Pizza? Did you order Italian?” Chuuya asked happily surprised. He hadn't eaten Italian in a lifetime and he actually really wanted it.

“Yeah” Dazai sighed “We actually wanted Chinese, but you put the thought in those two's heads and we all gave in.” He admitted, pointing to the brothers who just looked away amusedly.

“But we didn't just get pizza. There is also some pasta and tiramisù for dessert. Hope you like it.” Odasaku said with a small smile. Chuuya simply nodded, saying that he was fine with everything.

The time then dispersed into trivial chatter and laughter, until the doorbell rang. Dazai moved from his position to go open the door, under Gin's threats who encouraged him to go faster. It took less than a minute to see him return with three pizza and other boxes in his arms. Placing everything on the table, he divided among everyone and Chuuya found himself with a Diavola pizza in his hands.

Not bad, he thought, at least I like it.

It wasn't the usual Capricciosa that he always stole from Albatross, but he was a lover of spicy food and he could be considered satisfied.

To have pizza like him were Gin and Tachihara while the others enjoyed the first taste of their portions of pasta. He couldn't see Akutagawa's and Odasaku had ordered a Carbonara, but Dazai's one seemed good too even though Chuuya had no idea what it was. He asked him and Dazai thought for a few seconds before answering.

“The menu said Bolognese or something like that. It's a long pasta with a meat sauce, but it's really good.” His tone seemed unsure as he explained, but that didn't stop Chuuya from trying.

"Can I taste it?" Dazai just looked at him for a few seconds, but then he sighed and passed the fork, giving him permission. As soon as he tasted it the flavor of the sauce tickled his taste buds with how good it was.

Chuuya had already been to Italy once as a child with his parents for a medical convention. They had also gone to eat at a starred restaurant in Rome, but he didn't remember the food being so good. And if he was good in a restaurant abroad, imagine in its native land. He had to return to Italy one day.

“Is it good?” Dazai brought him back to reality as he took the box and fork back, pointing to the pizza. “Eat yours now.”

“Yeah...It's good, thank you.” Their conversation stopped there and dinner continued with food, beers and light conversation, simply enjoying each other's company. However, the real evening only began when everyone had cleaned up after the dessert, leaving only the alcohol on the table.

Chuuya had moved on the carpet with his own glass of wine; Odasaku and Akutagawa were on the terrace smoking; Gin and Tachihara talked to each other and Dazai, sitting next to Chuuya but on the sofa, simply enjoyed his glass of whiskey in silence.

Being the lightweight that Chuuya knew himself to be it didn't take long for the alcohol to hit him, causing him to relax. He rested his head on the pillows, his ear brushing the fabric of Dazai's pants. He had his eyes closed and a half-empty glass in an hand.

“Be careful not to spill it.” Dazai said as he looked at him, then reaching down to take the glass from him and place it on the table. “Are you drunk already?”

Chuuya didn't respond, just shaking his head without even opening his eyes. He then missed the way Dazai drowned a laugh into his glass, emptying it.

“You should taste the wine. Only barbarians prefer whiskey.” He muttered and looked up at him who looked back, then moving it to the glass and the open bottle.

“I find it too refined for me and for you too honestly. You seemed like a beer or vodka type like Gin.” Dazai mouthed and Chuuya rolled his eyes, moving to pick up the glass and pass it to him.

“Just drink it.” He muttered, pushing him to take it with the threat of spilling it onto the white pillows. Dazai sighed and gave up, taking it. He took a small sip, wrinkling his nose at the touch of acidity in the flavor before passing the glass again.

“Pussy.” Chuuya chuckled, getting a light blow to the head from Dazai's knee. However, before he could move to strike him back, Odasaku's voice reached them threatening. After all, he was keeping an eye on them from afar, happy that they were apparently in agreement until a few seconds ago.

The threat of making them work as a duo for a week immediately calmed their hot spirits.

"Fuck it. I have to pee." Chuuya grumbled and stood up, making his way down the hall. His steps were slightly wobbly, but nothing that stopped him from standing. Finding the bathroom was more complicated since every door was closed. Too lazy and proud to ask Dazai for help he began opening every door, finding himself first in a bedroom, then in another and also in an office.

He was about to open another door when someone grabbed his shoulder, turning him.

“Didn't someone teach you that it's rude to wander around other people's houses? That's my room, Nakahara.” Dazai said, then releasing his grip with a sigh to take his wrist, “The bathroom is on the far left. I'll take you, let's go"

"Do not touch me! I don't need your help, asshole.” Chuuya snapped, ripping his arm out of his grasp. He started to walk towards the bathroom, but was quickly grabbed back and slammed against the door behind him. A jolt of pain shot through his back at the blow, making him look up at Dazai angrily.

But the man looked at him, bent over his figure to be at his height, with anger and hatred.

“Listen to me carefully because your behavior is starting to piss me off. You can snap at me all you want if I'm being an asshole to you, but today you need to calm down. I welcomed you into my house and paid for your food so don't you dare to act bold just because you're drunk or I'll make you regret it.” He said a few centimeters from Chuuya's face, waiting for a response that never came. “I behave for the band and I expect you to do the same. I don't need to make the air tense during rehearsals and drive Odasaku crazy for months so don't do it either.”

Silence fell between them. They continued to look at each other without moving an inch, until Chuuya pushed him away felling uncomfortable.

“I can't fucking stand you,” he whispered and started walking towards the bathroom, this time without being grabbed and pulled back. When he turned to look back Dazai was already gone back to the others.

He did the same after a few minutes, this time heading to Odasaku for smoking. The first drag and the nicotine injected into his blood made him calm his nerves as he leaned back against the railing. While the cool night air sent shivers down his spine, he looked in silence at the interior of the house illuminated by the dim lights of the lamps.

Gin and Tachihara had left their personal bubble and started drinking with Akutagawa, downing shots of vodka one after the other. Dazai got up again, this time heading towards the fireplace to get another bottle of whiskey while Odasaku, still next to Chuuya and with a cigarette between his lips, followed him with his gaze. Just like Chuuya was doing before realizing it and putting out the half-finished cigarette and approaching the trio.

“Leave some for me too!” He exclaimed, plopping down next to Gin who laughed before passing him one of the shots. Unaware of what was inside Chuuya downed it, immediately being hit by the strong taste of rum and the heat that filled his throat and chest.

From that moment other shifts were taken by the four of them under the supervision of the elders who sat next to each other and with their inevitable glass of whiskey in hand.

The first to give up was Chuuya himself, collapsing against the sofa light-headed and without worries. The others followed after an hour, equally drunk. From the other sofa Odasaku and Dazai looked at them with a defeated look. The first to move was Dazai, placing the glass on the table with the others.

“I think it's time you brought them all home, Odasaku. It's late." He muttered, rubbing his temples. The three drinks he had ingested were starting to have an effect, causing a headache fueled throughout the evening by the shouts and laughter of his friends.

“Alright, but you'll have to keep one of them here with you. I don't have enough space in the car for everyone.” Odasaku said and Dazai's headache seemed to increase.

“Damn, alright…Gin can stay here.” He waited, closing his eyes to take five minutes of well-deserved rest. Unfortunately for him Odasaku didn't let him.

“She has class in the morning, Osamu. And I'm bringing Ryuu so I'll take advantage and leave her too.”

“Don't leave me here Tachihara. Last time he threw up in the guest room.” Dazai shuddered at the memory, freezing as he realized what he had just unintentionally exposed himself to. "Do not even think about it."

“Only him remains. You're the one said you didn't want Tachihara here.” Odasaku shrugged as he walked away to wake the others,except Chuuya.

“Hell, no. Can't we call that Albatross or another of his friends?” He huffed, earning an exasperated sigh from Odasaku and groans from who was waking up.

“It's the middle of the night, Osamu and he's here on his motorbike so he should still come back tomorrow to get that and the helmet.” The redhead said, then pointing to the object on the floor. “Keep him for the night. He's drunk so he won't bother you.”

Dazai sighed as he stood up and started cleaning, taking the glasses to the sink and the not-yet-empty bottles to the display case. The only one to remain on the table was the wine one, carefully closed so that the liquid left inside doesn't go to waste.

“Okay, but it won't happen again and I mean it this time.” He said, looking at the boy still asleep against the corner of the couch. Odasaku thanked him and it took another ten minutes, passed between moments of silence and complaints from others, before the entrance door was closed and the apartment fell into silence.

Dazai was standing near the kitchen door with his arms crossed and his gaze focused on Chuuya. The idea of letting him sleep there on the couch was tempting, but Dazai's many hangovers there reminded him of the terrible back pain he had in the mornings after.

He shook his head and moved on, finishing tidying up and closing the terrace door to make up for some time. Finally when it was 2:30 a.m. and the living room was perfectly arranged, Dazai found himself forced to decide.

He reluctantly bent over Chuuya's sleeping figure – who looked absolutely uncomfortable in that position – and gently moved him to wake him up. “Nakahara, get up. You have to go to bed."

He only got a grunt in response and Chuuya's figure turning to face him. Dazai sighed and shook him again, but harder.

"Let me sleep." Chuuya muttered without turning and the thought was tempting for Dazai, but he didn't give up.

“Chuuya, go to bed.”

“I told y-”

“Yeah yeah, not to call you by your first name. Not that you'll remember it in the morning.” Dazai rolled his eyes and, tired of that little theater, slipped his hands under Chuuya and lifted him up. He was also surprised by his weight, finding it heavier than he suspected.

Obviously Chuuya reacted to the sudden change, even if not at the same time as he would have done sober. “The fuck?! Let me go!”

“Shut up, Chuuya.” His name had a strange taste on the tongue. “I want to go to bed and you're not cooperating so let's do it my way. And above all I don't want to hear complaints tomorrow because you slept badly."

The answer he expected never came as he walked down the hall with Chuuya in his arms, in disbelief that he was actually doing it. Luckily the guest room was the first door on the left and it was the same one Chuuya had found himself in earlier while he was looking for the bathroom.

“God, I really hope you don't remember anything tomorrow.” Dazai sighed as he placed him on the bed, then walking away towards the door. “You know where the bathroom is and don't you dare throw up on my carpet like Tachihara did. I'll go get you some clothes."

Chuuya didn't answer again, immersed between the softness of the blankets and the pleasant confusion in his head. He closed his eyes and fell asleep within seconds, making Dazai sigh upon returning. He looked at him exasperated, then placing the change of clothes on the corner of the bed and covering him with the blankets before turning off the light.

He closed the door behind and once he arrived in his room and in his bed he found himself looking at the ceiling for a few seconds, thinking about the evening he had just spent. He then turned on his side to get that much-earned rest, without knowing that Chuuya's presence in the house was helping him more than he would have liked.

Chapter Text

Chuuya had had a lot of wild nights over the years, especially since he started hanging out in Extasy and with The Flags in particular. He found himself waking up in love hotels, at strangers' houses and more than once in one of his friends' cars. So when he woke up in Dazai's room he didn't panic at the unknown place.

He sat up between the soft white blankets, rubbing his head trying to ease the pain and remember the events of the previous night. It took a few seconds to remember everything.

The room began to seems familiar and the faint memories blurred by the alcohol, along with the change of clothes at his feet, were enough to connect all the dots and make Chuuya realize where he really was.

With a huff he fell backwards, burying his head in the pillow as he kept his gaze fixed on the ceiling. However, the dizziness due to nausea and the throbbing head made him close his eyes, sighing heavily.

He stayed in that position for an indefinite time, not caring whether a few seconds or entire minutes had passed. The light filtering through the curtains told him, however, that it was late in the morning and that he would've to get up if he didn't want to be late for the rehearsals.

Just the thought of it made him sink further into the mattress, hating himself for not taking advantage of the free time to enjoy a good night's sleep. With an effort he threw off the covers, throwing his legs off the bed to sit on the edge. The realization that he had slept in the day before's clothes made him feel dirty, making him immediately grab the clothes left by Dazai.

He put them on without thinking and once both sleeves and trousers were rolled up to avoid tripping over them, he forced himself to leave the room. He stood in the doorway, looking left and right, then going to the bathroom when he was sure that he wouldn't risked crossing paths with Dazai. However, once he saw his appearance in the mirror he found himself regretting every choice he had ever made.

His clothes were loose, his eyes puffy and he had dark circles, pale face and knotted hair.

Holy shit, he thought, resting his forehead against the cold surface. The mere idea of having to be seen like that by Dazai was frustrating. His only hope was that the man wasn't at home, but he could already consider it vanished since Chuuya could hear the sound of footsteps and the TV on in the distance. There was nothing left but to pray that he wasn't the only one stayed there sleeping.

He rinsed his face with cold water, brushed his hair with his fingers and then gathered the courage to go.

As soon as he stepped into the living room he could already see Dazai with his back turned in the kitchen while he fiddled with the stove. The absence of any other living forms in the house made Chuuya realize that he was truly the only one left there, making him curse Odasaku and the others for abandoning him.

He walked into the kitchen and his presence alone was enough to catch Dazai's attention. The man was already dressed in his usual comfortable clothes, opting for beige pants and a white t-shirt carefully placed in them. As soon as he turned around his expression changed dramatically, clearly holding back a laugh and trying to hide it in his steaming cup of coffee.

“Don't you dare, Dazai.” Chuuya muttered, too tired and embarrassed to sound even the slightest bit serious or intimidating. He sat down on one of the stools and rested his head on the white marble surface, closing his eyes to rest.

"I haven't said anything." Dazai shrugged, turning to grab another cup from one of the cabinets.

The redhead just ignored him. “What happened last night? I don't remember anything after the shots." He looked up at him, not missing the way Dazai's shoulders seemed to relax at his statement, before turning and walking over to the counter to place the full cup next to Chuuya's face. “Odasaku left you with me for the night. Nothing special."

Motherfucker, Chuuya thought as he sat up straight and took the first sip of coffee, enjoying the warmth going down his throat. Dazai, meanwhile, had decided to sit a few stools away, sipping his own. Silence reigned supreme between them as they enjoyed their breakfast and Chuuya couldn't be more grateful.

But he had to interrupt it anyway as soon as he finished drinking and placed the cup in the sink.

"What time is it?" He asked, unaware of where his phone might be.

Dazai took his own and after a quick glance at the screen he looked up again at him. "Ten thirty. You slept less than I expected, honestly.”

“Just because your windows are freaking huge. I had the light on my face.” Chuuya muttered while he was walking away towards the living room in search of his phone.

He was used to waking up early after a hangover - more than once he hadn't even slept at all to go and open the bar - but he wouldn't have minded a couple of hours more of sleep. Especially for the fact that Dazai's bed was really comfortable compared to his.

It was also true, however, that he still had a few hours before having to go to the agency and that allowed him to went home and freshen up. He felt an absolute need to swallow a pill and take a long shower.

“Well, yeah. That room points right east which is why I don't use it as the master bedroom.” Dazai shrugged, getting a glare from the redhead as he bent over the couch checking between the cushions. When his fingers finally touched something hard he breathed a sigh of relief. A sensation that didn't last long when he turned it on and saw the battery almost empty and a text from Odasaku warning them to come half an hour early.

"Shit." He grumbled and then put it in his pocket, turning back to Dazai who still sat undisturbed on the counter while scrolling on his own. “Were you planning on telling me about the text or not? If I hadn't found the phone I would've been late today.”

“Seems like your problem.” He shrugged again without taking his eyes off the phone and Chuuya simply rolled his, then went to retrieve his helmet. Luckily it had remained in the same spot.

“Can you at least lend me a bag to carry my clothes?” Chuuya asked, stepping back into the kitchen and getting Dazai's attention that time. The man's eyes wandered down his body before focusing on his face with a raised eyebrow.

“Do you mean to go out dressed like this?” That look and the tone he used, made Chuuya's insides turn with both embarrassment and anger. Obviously the idea of having to go around – even if only on the motorbike – in clothes twice his size was embarrassing, but at the same time who did Dazai think he was to look at him like that? Like he was...disgusting

"Forget it. I'll do it." He blurted out, then stalked out of the kitchen again. As he walked back down the hallway towards the bedroom he could hear the stool move and Dazai's footsteps behind him. And in fact, while he was picking up the clothes from the floor, he could still see the man's figure leaning against the door jamb and looking at him with his arms crossed.

“Chuuya, what the hell are you doing?” He asked and the redhead didn't answer, continuing to gather his belongings without looking at him. Dazai then tried again, taking a step closer. “Chuuya-”

“Don't fucking call me like that, Dazai.” Chuuya snapped, shoving him away when he reached down to help him. The space and time around them seemed to freeze as they looked at each other. Dazai with his ass on the floor and Chuuya in front of him.

And then the situation suddenly changed.

With a surge of anger, Dazai grabbed Chuuya by the shirt, bringing him closer until the boy was between his legs and a few inches from his face. After that the grip loosened only to move to his chin and tighten to the point of eliciting a groan of pain from the redhead as he tried and failed to pull away.

“You're pissing me off with this spoiled brat attitude, Chuuya. And no, I don't mean to call you something different than anyone else just because you hate me." The grip tightened and, if that caused any pain, Chuuya didn't show it, keeping his gaze glued to Dazai's as if they were challenging each other. “And I know you weren't so drunk to not remember last night talk, so stop it and try to accept that you're going to have to deal with me for a long time whether we both like it or not.”

He released the grip and Chuuya quickly retreated, getting back to his feet and rubbing the now red chin. Dazai stood up too before spoke again.

“And if you had let me finish talking before, I would've told you that there's no need to go out in my clothes. Take a damn shower here while I wash yours. I have a dryer for this, for God's sake!” He blurted out, feeling like the anger inside him hadn't yet dissolved. However, it wasn't strong enough to continue holding Chuuya forcefully just to make himself be heard.

Chuuya continued to glare at him, searching for something that would signal that every word Dazai just said were a lie. Not finding it, he simply put the clothes down again and sighed.

"All right. As you say.” He muttered while Dazai was cleaning the dust off his clothes sloppily. “How long approximately will it take to have my clothes ready?”

"Don't know. An hour and a half, I suppose.” The man shrugged as he retrieved the pile of clothes and then left the room, walking towards another area of the house which Chuuya assumed to be the laundry room.

"So much?! We have to be at the agency in two hours and the clothes will be wrinkled!” Chuuya exclaimed as he followed him. Dazai just chuckled in response.

“Well, you should've thought about it before growing up so short or before getting drunk at other people's houses.” Chuuya wanted to punch that annoying smile off his face.

“I thought Odasaku would take me home too. It's not my fault." He rolled his eyes as he leaned against the door frame and watched Dazai load the washing machine with his and other colorful clothes.

“Sounds like your problem, again. You should've asked him first.” Dazai turned to look at him and within himself Chuuya couldn't find an answer to defend himself. He just stood there looking at it with his arms crossed.

Dazai had to admit that it was quite satisfying to be able to silence the redhead once in a while and also that it was fun to see him try to act tough in the condition he was currently in.

"Whatever you say. I'm going to take a shower now." Chuuya said, turning and then disappearing from Dazai's sight who shook his head in resignation before starting the machine. Meanwhile, Chuuya had reached the bathroom again and, after closing the door behind him, he leaned against it sighing.

Staying at Dazai's house wasn't something he had ever imagined doing, much less having to shower within those domestic walls. A sense of embarrassment grew inside him, but he forced himself to react by slapping his face. He had taken showers – alone or in company – at other guys' houses so he had no need to feel that way.

Dazai was no different from them. Except for he fact that they hadn't had sex.

With that newfound energy Chuuya pushed himself away from the door and opened the shower stall so he could turn on the water. He knew that unfortunately he wouldn't have how much hot water as he would've liked because of the washing machine, but he could be satisfied.

Dazai's shower was slightly smaller than his - constricted by the hot tub next - but roomy enough to move around.

The first contact of the warm water against his skin made Chuuya relax, also making him raise his head to enjoy the sensation. The impression of dirt on him slipped from his body, disappearing into the box drain.

To his delight he also discovered that every product Dazai kept was of excellent quality so he wouldn't risk ruining his skin and hair. He still remembered what nightmare it was to use Albatross 3 in 1 shampoo the first night he spent in the apartment.

He stayed under the jet for about twenty minutes while the bathroom filled with the scent of berries and steam, enjoying the sensation of the products on his body. Once satisfied he went out, clutching his bathrobe - it too was so soft that Chuuya would've gladly stolen it - and standing in front of the mirror.

The rest of the time passed relatively quickly. Chuuya ran the towel through his hair to remove the accesses of water, then deciding to put it around his neck and let them air dry. Every now and then a few drops fell on the sweatshirt, forming small stains on the fabric.

The feeling of Dazai's clothes against his skin was still strange with how loose they were, but more so was the idea of not wearing underwear underneath. He felt embarrassed and did nothing to counter it this time. All he could do was hope that Dazai didn't think about that little detail or that he hadn't noticed a pair of foreign boxers among the laundry.

With that thought in mind he left the room and, not knowing what to do, he simply did the most natural thing he could think of, walking towards the living room. He wasn't the type of person who took long showers and not drying his hair had taken up even less of his time. He therefore still had to wait a long time to get his clothes back.

As soon as he walked in, he wasn't surprised to see Dazai sitting on the couch, not facing him. As he approached, Chuuya could notice the laptop on his thighs and the way he was typing focused, without deigning to acknowledge his presence in the room. Not that he needed to. Chuuya knew that he knew and that was enough for him to take another few steps, sitting down too.

However, he didn't do it on the same couch as Dazai, but on the one in front.

What surprised Chuuya instead, now that he could see Dazai's face, was the presence of a pair of glasses on it. He never imagined Dazai as someone who had to wear them and he hated to admit that they looked pretty good on him, too.

If he wore them all the time it would be easier to put up with his shitty personality, he found himself thinking, immediately regretting it for different reasons.

The first was that he couldn't afford to find the man attractive.

Not in a million years, he promised himself.

And the second was that he had no reason to call Dazai a piece of shit. At least not when he had been nice to Chuuya despite his behavior.

A feeling of guilt twisted his guts, making him sit without speaking to not risk disturbing the man's work.

The silence between them continued for some time, accompanied by the sounds of the keyboard and the TV on which it was broadcasting an anime episode that Chuuya had unfortunately already seen. He therefore couldn't rely on it to distract himself.

"If you want to change you can. I'm just keeping it as a background." Dazai said after about ten minutes, causing Chuuya to almost gasp in surprise.

"No, it's fine. I wouldn't know what to watch anyway." He replied, turning to look at Dazai only to find him staring glued to the screen like before. He found himself staring involuntarily as if he could read through the reflection in the glasses and figure out what was keeping the man so busy.

And when those amber eyes moved from the computer to him, meeting his gaze, Chuuya didn't feel like breaking contact immediately. He had been caught red-handed, yet he didn't move and their gazes stayed glued for a few seconds. Everything moved again only when Dazai's lips opened to speak again.

"You need something, Chuuya?" He said and, god, Chuuya really needed a lot of things right there. His mind traveling without his consent with the way Dazai said his name. A change that - although hatefully appreciated deep down - Chuuya had yet to digest.

"What are you working on?" He asked, shifting uncomfortably in his seat while broking eye contact. He felt the need to escape now that he realized what he was getting into. What his brain was forcing him to think about.

"A song. I thought of some rhymes while you were in the shower and I'm jotting them down." Dazai replied, still looking at him. "Do you want to read? An opinion is always welcome."

No no, run away. Don't you dare to get near this motherfucker!, Chuuya shouted to himself. Do not even think about it-

"Sure." He shrugged and within seconds he was sitting right next to Dazai and with the laptop on his thighs, occasionally and accidentally touching his knee with his own.

Chuuya ran his gaze through the words, reading them carefully. It seems to be a song about teenage rebellion - funny considering Dazai's age - given the many implicit references to school, parents and irresponsibility.

“Are you in your late rebellion phase?” Chuuya teased, looking up at Dazai and being surprised when he found out the man already had his eyes on him as if he had been watching him the whole time.

Dazai chuckled, then shaking his head as he took the computer back and placed it on the glass table in front of them, leaving it open on the document.

"No, I already had it at the right time. Not as big as yours though." He laughed, looking back at Chuuya who did the same with a raised eyebrow. "These words are for teenagers like you. They would find themselves in the lyric."

"Do you have a rebellious past? The most I can imagine of you is that you skipped school once or secretly smoked in the bathrooms." Chuuya laughed, relaxing against the couch. "And I'm not a teenager. I'm twenty. You make me look like a pimply thirteen year old like that."

He said and Dazai's response, well, it was something completely unexpected. He laughed and did so heartily too, leaning forward and towards Chuuya a little. The redhead felt a strange feeling grew inside himself , but not enough to make him react. He just looked at Dazai in shock as he continued to laugh, leaning forward and slapping Chuuya's knee a couple of times.

"Were you a pimply kid, Chuuya?" Dazai asked breathlessly between laughs, causing the other to gasp as a blush characterized his cheeks.

"I wasn't! That...that was just an example!" The redhead exclaimed embarrassed, only causing more laughter from Dazai who was holding his stomach.

“Fuck off, Dazai.” Chuuya couldn't help, but let the laughter affect him, holding back a smile while pushing the man to stop. It seemed to work as Dazai soon calmed down, catching his breath with his chest rising up and down quickly.

He then sat up straight again, abandoning the sprawled out position he had assumed while he was recovering. "Well, you didn't deny it, but even if you were there's nothing wrong with it. I was too until I was fifteen, so..."

He shrugged and Chuuya could totally imagine Dazai like that when he was younger. A slightly nerdy student, good at school and with a few pimples that then changed drastically when he grew up, making himself unrecognizable.

"And just so you know, I did some rebellious things as a teenager too. Certainly not like you guys from Extasy or the Akutagawas. You scare me sometimes." Dazai continued and it was time for Chuuya to laugh, although in a much more contained way.

"You and Odasaku are simply too old style and serious. You didn't even have fun last night with us."

"Well, he had to drive so he couldn't anyway and he doesn't like to drink too much." Dazai's voice - although playful - hid a touch of seriousness. Memories of a past that shouldn't be reopened at that moment and especially with Chuuya. "But I'm sure he did his own shenanigans as a teenager."

"So it's just you being a good boy the whole time. Boring." Chuuya kept teasing, finding oddly funny to poke the man's buttons. His answers were entertaining.

"What can I say? I was raised well." He shrugged and the tension that could've gone down with that sentence, luckily, didn't.

After all Extasy and all the bullshit that Chuuya had done and still did, had been a form of rebellion against his parents. As well as a way to let himself off steam.

Dazai seemed to realize what he had just said and opened his mouth as if to speak again. However, he was interrupted by the sound of the washing machine in the distance signaling the end of the cycle.

With a sigh the man stood up, disappearing into the hallway without a word and his absence allowed Chuuya to relax. His body relaxed against the soft pillows and his eyes closed, enjoying that feeling of lightness that he hadn't felt on his heart in a long time.

When Dazai returned and warned him that the clothes would be ready in half an hour, Chuuya opened one eye only to see him go to the kitchen.

"Are you hungry? I'll make something." Dazai asked as he looked at what he had in the fridge. "Scrambled eggs?"

"Yeah, they sound amazing." Chuuya replied, standing up to join him and sitting down at one of the two islands. The cold marble in contact with his arms sent a shiver through his body while he was watching Dazai cooking. He moved confidently, knowing exactly what to do and how to do it, without taking his eyes off his work.

"Chuuya." Hearing his name, suddenly, made the redhead jump again, realizing that he was enchanted again. "Can I ask you a question?"

Then, as if Dazai saw the way Chuuya nodded, he continued.

"Aren't you worried about becoming famous? With all that family history of yours." He asked as he poured the eggs into the pan, stirring them to keep them from sticking.

Chuuya took a few seconds to answer.

He was worried, of course. The idea of having to deal with them again was unthinkable, but he knew he couldn't let them take him any further away from his dream. Turning down a contract with Mori Ougai just to continue living in peace would be something he would never forgive himself, regretting for decades to come.

"Yes, but I want to think about myself for once. If they ever find out that I'm still here I'll confront them." He said, then smiling at a thought that crossed his mind. “Besides, it would be fun to see the faces of those who told them I was abroad studying medicine.”

Dazai chuckled, then turning around with two plates of scrambled eggs in hand and placing one in front of Chuuya. He then sat down in front of him, taking the first bite.

“I bet it would be.” He said, then looking up from his plate to look at Chuuya. "As long as it doesn't give the band any trouble."

Chuuya rolled his eyes and stopped eating, looking up at him as well. His eyes were determined. "It won't happen. It would be their reputation to fall, not mine and much less the band's. Stop thinking that I'm doing everything I can to ruin you."

"I don't, but you're a bomb ready to explode. Better to keep the fuse from being lit than to blow it out when it's too late." Dazai shrugged getting a scowl from the other. "What?"

"What you just said doesn't make sense." He teased him, getting a glare from Dazai who speared the eggs harder.

"I don't take criticism of my genius from brats." He rolled his eyes, finishing his meal and placing the plate and silverware in the sink. Just in time to hear the sound of the dryer.

"Your clothes are ready. I'll put them in your room. As soon as you finish eating, come and change or we'll be late." He said before walking out of the room and Chuuya, looking at the time on his phone, quickly finished his eggs.

However, when he was about to put his things in the sink, a sense of guilt grew in him. He felt the need to reciprocate Dazai's kindness at least a little, so he turned on the water and began to wash what they had dirtied for breakfast and lunch. It didn't take him long since there were few things, but it was enough to make the annoying feeling go away and allow him to reach the bedroom.

Dazai wasn't there, but Chuuya's clothes had been placed on the bed. As he picked them up he noticed with annoyance when they were wrinkled, but he didn't have the time to complain. He took off Dazai's clothes, promising to put them in the laundry before leaving and put on his own. Not having to pull up the collar of the shirt every time because it was too big was definitely relaxing.

Once ready he gave his now-dry hair a quick fix and grabbed the hair clips to keep the bangs away from his face. He only opted for two, blue and white respectively. He then put the towel together with the rest of the clothes, throwing them in the laundry basket.

When he returned to the living room Dazai was already there waiting for him, this time without glasses and handing him the helmet.

"See you at the agency. Don't be late." He said with a little smile which Chuuya returned as he picked up his helmet and left the house after putting on his shoes.

♫

When he arrived at the practice room, just five minutes had passed since the meeting time, thus allowing him not to receive a scolding from Odasaku. When he entered he simply excused himself and received a sigh from him as he told him to sit down.

Dazai arrived shortly after and received the same treatment before sitting next to the Akutagawa brothers and in front of Chuuya.

"So...Why did you make us come first? I didn't have time to get my coffee." He sighed as if he hadn't had one just two hours before.

"Mori requested a meeting with everyone. That's why. But first, I still want to have our meeting."

The news that they had been summoned by the chief put everyone on alert. After all, there were few times when they were all called as a band, always sending only Dazai or Odasaku as representatives. If, however, everyone's presence was needed it was because something big was about to happen or because they had made a mess.

For Chuuya that would've been the first time and the idea of having to set foot again in that office after just a week since his hiring made him quite nervous.

Odasaku spoke for about ten minutes, explaining what they would do in the rehearsals after the meeting. For the first time they would rehearse the most used songs in performances with Chuuya, then giving him the lyrics to learn at home.

The redhead sighed at the extra work, but accepted it without complaint. What really caught his attention, however, was what Odasaku said next.

"Next Tuesday we have been invited to a radio broadcast. Chuuya, you will also be there as an official member of the band." He said looking towards him and it took the redhead a couple of seconds to process the words. “I already notified Kunikida this morning so he'll help us to prepare you properly.”

All of this meant, unfortunately, only more lessons with Mrs. Yamamoto on behavior and a big headache for Chuuya.

"We need you to have the lyrics memorized for that time. It's on TV so we won't be able to help you like we did at Kimura's." Odasaku kept speaking and Chuuya simply nodded, noticing how everyone's eyes were now on him.

Somehow Dazai's seemed more penetrating though.

"Okay, I think that's all. Let's go to Mori now."

The elevator ride passed among chatters. Odasaku and Dazai stood in front with the others in tow and Chuuya leaned his back against the wall, listening to Tachihara tell him about the terrible hangover he had woken up with.

However, when the doors opened, silence accompanied them to the huge doors of Mori's office.

Dazai knocked and after a few seconds the familiar voice inside made them came in. Mori was sitting at his desk with a cup of tea in his hand. The rest of the office was empty, meaning that Elise was probably still at school.

"Guys, good morning! Come along." He smiled, welcoming them inside.

With a smile like that he certainly can't be angry, Dazai told himself as he stopped in front of the desk.

"Good morning, Mori-san." He said in a calm tone, keeping one step ahead of the others.

"Hello, Dazai-kun. I'm happy to see y'all. I hope the new lineup is doing well." The man smiled, leaning forward a little to look at them all and focusing his gaze on Chuuya for a second longer.

"Everything is fine, thank you. We just found out about Chuuya's TV debut next week. We will prepare as much as possible to make it perfect." Dazai said in such a serious tone that Chuuya didn't even think the man could have.

"Really? What wonderful news. I'm sure you will do a great job!" Mori kept talking, then drinking a generous sip from the cup. When no one answered he continued.

"However, that's not what I've called you for today. Fitzgerald is hosting a party at his property here in Tokyo in three weeks and has requested a performance from you. It's a private party so there won't be any journalists, but among the guests will be present the most important figures in the world of entertainment." His tone of voice was now equal to Dazai's in seriousness, making everyone inside the office stiffen.

"Chuuya-kun." Mori addressed the newcomer directly, asking him to take a step forward. Chuuya didn't hesitate, moving. "Do you think you're ready for such an event? I need your sincerity."

"Yes, sir. I can do that." The answer came out before he could even think about it. He knew he could do it and he also had three weeks to prepare. He couldn't back out right there.

Near him, Dazai looked at him, but without interfering.

"Perfect then. I have high expectations for each of you. Now, since you are both here in front of me, I would like to propose a little idea that I just had." Mori spoke again and looked between Chuuya and Dazai, making them both shivered. A horrible feeling crept into their chests.

"Seeing how much popularity your video got last month." Mori introduced the topic like that and Chuuya already wanted to sink down all the floors of the skyscraper and then into the ground at that memory. "For sure fans and media will recognize our dear Chuuya after the interview next week and I was thinking of killing two birds with one stone."

The sly smile on the man's face made Dazai worry. "What do you mean?"

"Very simple. You two will have to pretend to be a couple."

Silence fell on the room like a veil of ice. No one in the band dared to move, as if just one breath could make the situation explode. Just Mori looked at them smiling.

And then...

"Ah?!"
"This will never happen!"
“Why on earth would I pretend to date this idiot?!”
"Mori-san, be reasonable!"
“Not in a million years!”

Many other sentences were shouted and mixed together, making their understanding impossible. However, it all ended when Mori raised his hand to interrupt them.

"It's an act. People love when there's tension between two members of the same band. Fan service has always create scandal and will increase your popularity if done well." He explained, ignoring the glares they both gave him.

"But mori-san-" Dazai tried, only to be interrupted again. He was serious, looking the guitarist in the eyes.

"It's decisive. I won't accept any objections from either of you." He ordered in a firm voice, then looking at both of them. Chuuya - although totally against it - just sighed.

"Good. Now go ahead and make me proud of you as always."

The first to went out were them, who walked quickly and with long strides down the hallway. Behind them the band still didn't speak, waiting for them to do so.

That only happened in the elevator when Chuuya leaned against the wall again, huffing. "Fan service?! I came here to have a career in music not in cinema! I would've joined Lipmann otherwise!"

He huffed and Dazai glared at him, crossing his arms. "Well, accept it. Looks like we'll have to, unless you want Mori to make your life here a living hell."

"He just did." Chuuya muttered and no one dared speak again after that, spending the rest of the way to the practice room in silence.

Chapter Text

Awkward.

That word was enough to describe the tension felt in the room after the meeting with Mori. It had passed almost twenty minutes and still no instruments had been touched.

At least not by Chuuya or Dazai that were sitting on the couch, ignoring each other. One in corner with his arm resting on the armrest and his gaze fixed on the phone and the other bent over the coffee table, pretending to write the notes of a new track.

The rest of the band watched from afar with a frown. Odasaku was missing, busy on an urgent call with Kunikida right outside the door.

“Should we tell them something?” Gin whispered while she was checking the strings of both her bass and her brother's guitar. Next to her, he glanced at the couple.

"If you feel like being eaten alive" He said, getting a nudge and complaining for the pain.

"Well. We have to try, right?" It was Tachihara moving away from the wall and leaning on to step closer to the sofas. The others looked at him, with sympathy. After all it wasn't common to witness a possible murder first hand.

Tachihara stopped, clearing his throat when neither Chuuya or Dazai looked up. The redhead was the first to give up, taking his eyes off the phone. Dazai, then, reluctantly followed.

"Yes?" He sighed.

"The rehearsals. We can't do them without you two." Tachihara said.

"Yes, you can. You always did while we were with Hiroko." Dazai leaned back against the seat, but found himself staring at Chuuya even though he was talking to Michizo.

“But now you're here and we have to try harder for that party!” He said, getting another loud sigh from both of them. Without Odasaku holding them off - damn him for having to leave just now - it was impossible to budge those two long faces.

"Tachi, I'm not at all in the mood to do anything right now, okay?" Chuuya snorted, sinking into the leather cushions even deeper. He closed his eyes, feeling the headache spread.

"Look. I know you're upset about this whole new fan service thing-"

"I'm not upset." Dazai interrupted, shrugging.

"- but we can't waste time like this! Am I wrong?" Tachihara exclaimed, turning to the brothers for support and only getting thumbs up. "It's just an act. It's not that big of a deal and I think it'll help you too. Mori has never made a mistake after all."

"That's the problem. I want people to know me for my music and not as this idiot's love flame." Chuuya snapped, pointing at Dazai who was clutching his heart in a fake sign of pain.

"Well, but they'll also know you as our new singer and then as a rapper when you'll debut. This is just for hype things up, Chuuya." Gin interjected, placing the instruments on the ground so she could stand up and walk over, but it didn't seem the right think to say since Chuuya stood up and hastily grabbed his jacket, leaving the room.

Odasaku, who was back at the same time, got a light shove while Chuuya warned them that he would return once he calmed down.

"What happened?" The manager looked at them one by one, focusing more on Dazai. He didn't notice him though, too busy staring at the door Chuuya had just come out of.

"Nothing. Let's leave him alone for now. You too, Tachihara." He said, going back to his job. Everyone else sighed and reluctantly returned to their seats, occupying the time with their instruments or phones.

Odasaku was the only one to sit next to Dazai, silently observing the papers scattered on the coffee table.

"You will have to attend Yamamoto's lessons with Chuuya. You have to learn how to behave in public together." He said, getting the attention of the other who looked at him as if he had just been stabbed in the back.

"Mrs. Yamamoto? Why do I have to put up with her again??" Dazai almost yelled, exasperated. The months spent with years before her had been a nightmare. Particularly because the usual flattering comments didn't work on her.

"Because she's Chuuya's mentor and it's more convenient than taking up someone else's time. Besides, she's more than qualified to handle someone like you."

Odasaku was serious, adamant about his position and Dazai knew he wouldn't change his mind. He didn't reply, adding it to the list of unpleasant events of the day.

The room began to be too much and the need to smoke made him stand up, reaching for the door without say a word. Once alone, and with it closed behind himself, he took a deep breath. The air there seemed decidedly lighter.

However, walking towards the terrace, that momentary peace ended when he could see Chuuya, leaning on the railing and with a cigarette between his lips.

"Do you smoke?" Dazai asked, startling the redhead who, too busy staring into space, hadn't heard the door open behind him.

"Yeah, sometimes." He flicked the cigarette twice with his index finger, letting the excess ash fall out. His eyes then left the horizon to look at Dazai. "Only when I need to clear my mind."

Dazai nodded and took the package out of his pocket as well, bringing one to his lips. He lit it and enjoyed the first puff while he leaned his elbows on the railing.

“And what are you clearing your mind about now?” He asked after minutes of silence, making Chuuya giggle.

“What do you think?” He rolled his eyes and took a longer drag, almost coughing.

It would've been embarrassing, he thought while looking at the Mount in the distance. He couldn't help but remember Albatross's 3a.m. disagreements about how much he wished the mount had switchbacks to drift over or about how one day he would've climbed up to see into the crater.

He smiled at the thought, ignoring Dazai's eyes on him.

“I think you're overthinking about something stupid, Chuuya.” He said and the sound of his own name made Chuuya turn up his nose. He didn't comment though.

“Easy for you to say it.” He scoffed, putting the cigarette out in the ashtray. For a second Dazai thought he would run away again, hiding somewhere to avoid the topic. So forgive him if he was a little surprised to see Chuuya still next to him looking at the skyline.

“Easy? I'm in this like you are and I don't like it either, but complaining and refusing to talk to me won't solve anything. If Mori has decided this he won't change his mind easily so adapt or he will make you adapt." Dazai's voice was serious and his gaze was hard. Then he continued, before Chuyya could respond. “I understand why you don't like this, but to get big here you also have to do things you don't like or you won't get anywhere. Listen to someone who's been here a lot longer than you, even if you think he's an idiot."

Chuuya didn't even try to answer this time and the lack of words made the situation embarrassing even for Dazai. He sighed and stretched. “And you can also say you're dating a celebrity, but if Chuuya prefer those thugs in the slums then his tastes are terrible."

He pretended to be sad, but smiled when he noticed the red cheeks and the look of indignation on the other's face. He complained about the pain in his arm when he got punched, but he was at least happy to see the usual Chuuya.

Not that he would ever admit it to him and much less to himself.

“I don't date thugs for your information. I have good taste. Which I really don't think you do." Chuuya muttered, getting an annoying smirk from Dazai who turned to him, leaning in a little.

“I don't need to have good taste. All women are beautiful after all, but you sure are. Tell me, Chuuya.” He threw some ash before moving closer, forcing the other to take a couple of steps back. “What's your type?”

He smiled, finding that blush too appetizing not to continue. Chuuya's reactions were always the best for him tho.

“Not assholes like you, for sure. Back the fuck up.” Dazai had to hold a laugh, stepping back. He raised his hands in surrender and then took his phone from the pocket, putting out the cigarette with his free hand.

“Odasaku is looking for us. Come on"

The walk back was silent. They both walked side by side with Chuuya's eyes wandering the hallway and Dazai allowing himself to glance at him every now and then.

When they arrived at the rehearsal room a little surprise awaited them. In addition to the other band members already present and Odasaku, Kunikida was also in the room.

“Stick-ass? What are you doing here?” Chuuya looked at him surprised, getting a dirty and a poorly hidden laugh from Tachihara who got the same treatment from Odasaku.

“Please, stop calling me like that.” Kunikida said, adjusting his glasses. “Oda informed me of Mori's request and we thought of a plan together.”

“A plan? Isn't it enough for us to pretend to be lovers in front of the cameras or some other bullshit?” Chuuya asked, taking one of the couches again. Dazai, on the other hand, leaning against the door behind himself.

“Technically yes, but it seems difficult for the two of you to even be civil to each other. Let alone pretend to be in a relationship for a long time and make it seem as real as possible.” Kunikida continued, sighing. He had never witnessed their bickering, yet he seemed to know what he was talking about.

“So what's your plan?” It was Dazai who spoke, missing his bed and his beloved coffee more than ever. Whatever the two managers had planned, he wouldn't have rebelled, hoping for the end of that miserable day. He just needed Chuuya to do the same.

“First of all, Dazai you have to attend Yamamoto's lessons with Chuuya as I already told you.” Odasaku dropped the bomb again. “And then it would be a good idea, in our opinion, if you two spent some time together. Alone."

“You mean like a date?” Tachihara interjected again, earning another glare from Odasaku. Dazai noticed how Chuuya's face turned red again and how he was about to protest, but luckily Kunikida prevented it.

“Not like that. We just think that spending time and getting to know each other better will lead you to be more tolerant.”

“And can't it be done with the other band members around too? Why do we have to be alone?” Chuuya asked.

“Because, first of all, this is between the two of you.” Kunikida turned, taking a piece of paper from his bag and handing it to Chuuya. “And then, you wouldn't interact with the band like you would do it alone. You must have no distractions from each other until you decide to get along and be close.”

No one spoke for a couple of seconds. Chuuya was busy reading and everyone else was waiting for a response from him or Dazai, even if they would get nothing from the latter.

“Did you really just give me a list of activities to do with him?” Chuuya looked at his manager in shock, then abruptly handing him the piece of paper. “I'm not going out for lunch or take a walk with him!”

He made the quotes with his free hand and the voice, both sour and teasing, almost made Dazai chuckle. Almost.

“Those are just ideas. Do whatever you want as long as I don't hear about any new scandals or public spats." Kunikida sighed and walked away, heading towards Dazai. Or rather, towards the door.

“I'll expect you both tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock sharp in Mrs. Yamamoto's study. Dazai don't be late.”

Dazai snorted a laugh before moving out of the way and letting him pass.

Thus only the band remained, still and silent in their places. Chuuya took a deep breath and sank further into the chair.

“I'm starting to hate you guys.” He looked up at the ceiling. “Tachihara above all.”

That seemed to liven up the atmosphere, causing a look of offense and disbelief to appear on the drummer's face.

“What?? Why me?!” He asked, accompanied by giggles from the brothers sitting next to him.

“Because you're the one who dragged me here in the first place.” Chuuya muttered and this time not even Odasaku could prevent a smile from appearing on his face at Tachihara's shocked expression.

Dazai had secretly taken out his phone to take a photo of him, also capturing the Akutagawas bent over with laughter and Chuuya hiding his smile behind the fist.

Maybe it's not that bad, he thought as he looked at the photo, smiling.

After that brief moment of lightheartedness the band decided it was time to start rehearsing. Between Chuuya and Dazai's silent treatment earlier, their cigarette break and the meeting with Kunikida, they had wasted enough time, leaving them with little left over.

They tried a few times on their own while Chuuya read the lyrics, humming in his head to see if he remembered the words, rhythm and tone of voice to use. The main song was still the same as last month so he was lucky to have already learned it quite well.

From now on he couldn't rely on the reassurance that if he made a mistake someone would be behind him to correct him tho.

He had to be perfect.

Later, he also rehearsed with the band, listening to the advice that Dazai gave him, feeling a little less insecure when they call it a day. Since he put Hiroko's advice into practice, he hadn't done so badly.

“Chuuya. Are you busy tonight?” Dazai approached him as the redhead was grabbing his jacket so he could leave. Pretty hasty, but he had the train ride home after all. He was regretting leaving the motorcycle at home after returning from Dazai's apartment.

“No, why?” He asked with his phone in mid-air and albatross chat open, tempted to ask him for a ride before his night shift. The thought of having to cook too when he got home almost made whining.

“Let's do that dating thing then.” Everyone stopped. Both Chuuya and the band who were gathering their things or setting up their instruments looked at Dazai as if he had gone crazy. "What? We have to do it anyway sooner or later.”

Now... Chuuya would normally have immediately objected, making up some insult on the spot at Dazai just for having proposed it to him, but right now...

“Okay, but you drive. I'm here on foot." He said as he pulled on the jacket. Dazai looked at him dumbfounded by how easily he had agreed and then smiled.

“As if I could ever trust you or your driving.” Dazai chuckled as he followed him out of the practice room, waving at the others who were still looking at them shocked.

“But if you snagged a ride to Sigma that day.” Chuuya chuckled too, heading towards the elevator.

“Because it was a car. It's definitely safer in case Chuuya's terrible driving causes us to get into a more terrible accident." Dazai sighed, stretching as he waited for the elevator to reach the floor.

“How can a modified racing car be safer for you than a motorcycle?” Chuuya rolled his eyes as the doors opened and he hurried inside, selecting the underground parking level. He had learned that all the official employees parked there, instead of in front of the building like him.

“Bacause it's a car? You know...protectors, belts, airbags and those things made to protect you. With the motorbike if you get hit you fall regardless.” The brunette leaned against the wall, enjoying watching Chuuya's patience slowly wear thin.

“This is why there are things like helmets, suits and protections. And then, whether it's a motorbike or a car, if you get hit hard you'll crash regardless." Chuuya snorted and fragments of memories of when he almost saw it happen came back to his mind.

It was one of the first times he went to see the Flags compete. He was at the finish line with the others while Lippmann and Albatross raced against two other drivers.

The race was still in its prime, but they had decided to wait there to congratulate the two in case they won. Thanks to the speakers and the presenter's commentary, however, they managed to follow it without problems, finding themselves freezing on the spot when the man announced the impact between Lipp's car and another one.

It turned out that the driver of the Toyota had purposely pushed him off the track and Lipp, unable to regain control, ended up crashing into a wall. Everyone moved when they heard the news. Albatross, despite the race in progress, turned the car to go help him and the others got into theirs and headed towards the same point.

In the end it was nothing serious. The front end of the car itself was gone, but the blond had only suffered a cut on his forehead and a sore, but thankfully not broken, arm. Although he was going fast and was unable to regain control, he managed to brake at the last minute, thus reducing the severity of the impact.

All that remained of that experience were the hundreds of tweets of concern from his fans and the beatings that Chuuya gave the other driver for almost killing his friend. The fact that he had also won the race still made his hands itch.

“Protections that you never wear though. You can't blame me for caring about my life, Chuuya.” Dazai chuckled and the redhead swore he could feel his right eye twitching.

It's this or the train, Chuuya. Remember that. He repeated to himself, then exited the elevator when they arrived at the parking lot. Not knowing what car Dazai had, he let him drive him through the rows. It was quiet empty since the usual time of work had passed from a while.

However, they approached a shiny black Mercedes and Chuuya decreed that it matched Dazai perfectly. The windows were tinted and the interior was red leather with the screen on the dashboard that lit up when Dazai started the engine.

“So, where are we going?” Chuuya asked as the man stuck his arm out the window to swipe his badge over the scan and have the gates open.

“My place, of course. We still can't be seen together in public. What would happen if Chuuya decided to kick me under the table again while we're having dinner?” Dazai sighed in mock desolation, thankful he was driving since Chuuya looked like he was about to punch him in the jaw.

“I wouldn't kick you if you didn't deserve it." Chuuya snorted and Dazai smiled.

“And now I deserve it?”

“You always deserve it."

Chuuya snorted again like a child and Dazai felt like he had facial paralysis as he couldn't stop smiling. He could feel his face ache.

The rest of the ride from Mori Corp to his apartment passed between their usual bickerings and the music left in the background. In the rare moments of calm Dazai drove with his eyes focused on the street while Chuuya let his gaze wander around the city already illuminated by lights and neon signs.

The coming of October and the end of summer had begun to decrease, even if slightly, the hours of daylight.

“Isn't it worse if someone sees us go to your place alone instead of seeing us somewhere random to eat?” Chuuya commented at some point. Dazai shrugged without taking his eyes off the road.

“I chose my house for a reason, Chuuya.” The redhead started to think that Dazai was having fun saying his name now that he had decided he could. “No one will see us since I also have an underground car park. The only ones who could are the security guards on the cameras, my neighbors or the other residents of the building in the elevator. Trust me, none of them care about me.”

Chuuya nodded, feeling a little more relieved. He really didn't want to wake up the next day and find hundreds of texts and posts online about him and Dazai spending the night together. He knew that, sooner or later, they would get to that point if that farce had the effect Mori hoped for. It wouldn't take a long time for their fanbase to start studying every single move or breath they take in order to find something that would confirm their ship.

He almost gave himself a headache at the idea, but he decided not to think about it. For now his biggest concern was his official debut on TV and his first public appearance at the party shortly after. He could worry about fans, flirting and other bullshit later.

It didn't take much longer for Dazai's apartment complex to appear around the corner, much less for him to finally park and get out. Chuuya almost felt bad at the idea of ​​abandoning those comfortable and expensive seats, but he had to do it if he wanted to go up and eat something.

“Shall we order takeaway like yesterday?” He asked as they walked down the hall and waited for Dazai to open the door with the code. They hadn't met anyone in the elevator and luckily not even there, saving them from any possible worries.

“I made some rice when you left today. We'll eat that and I should also have some fish to cook and some vegetables. That's alright?" Dazai said, taking out his shoes. He didn't have to tell Chuuya to do the same.

“Yes, but don't take too long. I'm starving." He muttered as he followed Dazai into the kitchen, sitting at the counter and waiting for any directions. Meanwhile, Dazai took the apron that he kept hanging next to the counter - absolutely out of place with that bright yellow color and the little flowers, but also fun to see Dazai wearing it - and opened the fridge. “Sea bream with courgettes and carrots. If you don't like it, I don't mind informing you that my fridge offers only this for tonight.” He said and to prove his point he opened the door completely, showing the sad refrigerator he had.

What's the point of having a giant fridge if you leave it empty? Chuuya thought. Sometimes he didn't understand rich people like Dazai. Seriously.

He leaned over the stool and looked at those three ingredients. “So what can I do to help? If I let you do everything alone we'll eat in at least two hours."

“Do you have that little faith in my cooking skills? However, you can clean and cut the vegetables while I take care of the fish." Dazai said as he pointed to them, then proceeding to start cooking.

Therefore Chuuya also decided to get involved, taking off his jacket and going to wash his hands. He rummaged through the drawers for a suitable knife and cutting board.

His task wasn't difficult at all. It was just a matter of cleaning and dicing and julienneing some vegetables – something he had done at least a hundred times in his life. After all, he was the only reason Albatross ate healthy minimum at home. If it had been for his friend he would have ordered takeout or used pre-packaged and frozen food every day.

Not that they couldn't afford it given the money they earned from racing and challenges, but it was always better not to overdo it and keep it at bay for any emergency expenses. After all, luck could stop turning at any moment.

While working Chuuya turned his head to look at Dazai. He had his back turned over the sink and wasn't paying attention to him, busy cooking. The room would have been in perfect, comfortable silence if it weren't for the water running in the sink or the knife scraping across the cutting board as he dropped the vegetables onto his plate.

"Are you done?" Chuuya asked after a while, placing the plate next to the stove and leaning back as he watched Dazai place the second piece of fish on the cutting board, nodding.

"Yeah. You can leave it to the professionals now.” He waved him away as he approached and Chuuya chuckled, stepping aside and leaning on the nearby counter.

"Professional? I bet it will suck or at least you will burn it.”

“You seemed to appreciate my eggs today. Were they by any chance burned?” Dazai turned to look at him. A cheeky smile as he waited for Chuuya to relent. He didn't tho, simply shifting his bored gaze and moving towards the fridge to get a soda.

“I will take your silence as a yes.” He shrugged, turning back to the stove.

“Take it as a shut up and cook. Where do you keep things to set the table?”

“You can find the glasses there.” Dazai pointed blindly to a cabinet while he turned the vegetables. “The cutlery, however, is in the drawer right here next to me.”

Chuuya nodded and began to prepare the counter on which they had eaten that morning too. A task that didn't take him more than five minutes given how simple their solitary dinner was. He then found himself sitting on one of the stools and with his chest resting on the cold marble and the sensation going beyond his shirt.

He scrolled through his phone bored, his cheek turning red as he spent time resting on his arm. From time to time he shifted his gaze to Dazai, finding him always turned around and moving confidently around the kitchen.

The good smell that spread through the house made his stomach growl, regretting having wasted that half hour on the terrace of Mori Corp, instead of at the snack machines.

“Here, take it.” Chuuya woke up from his phone trance and looked up, finding Dazai handing him one of the plates. He sat up straight and silently took it, looking at it.

It looked...amazing. He moved the vegetables around looking for the slightest cooking error – too raw, overcooked, too salty or less salty – but nothing. He could compare the dishes he was served at home as a child by the family's personal chef.

"Any burn marks?” Dazai asked still wearing that annoying smile as he took the first bite.

“Maybe a small one here.” Chuuya also chuckled, prodding the fish with his chopsticks.

That was weird.

The whole situation was strange in Chuuya's eyes and he knew it must have seemed that way to Dazai too. Being at his house, sitting in his kitchen with food prepared by him in front of him while they teased and giggled like old friends.

It was surreal, yet it felt so right.

So right that it made him forget the contempt his heart felt from the first second Dazai opened his mouth to address him. He also knew, however, that a nice evening couldn't erase how the other man had labeled him or made him feel just because of his prejudices. Chuuya simply decided not to think about it for those few hours and enjoy that annoyingly good food.

“I hope not. My mom would be disappointed otherwise.” Dazai said between bites “She was a cook. She loved cooking and she taught me. She always said that no woman should go home and not have a nice dinner ready every now and then."

His voice was playful, but his eyes were downcast and on his plate. He grabbed the glass to cover his mouth.

Chuuya didn't ask for explanations. There was no need. He simply enjoyed another bite of sea bream, feeling all the spices explode.

“She looks like an amazing woman.” He said. The morsel that seemed to become so big that it could not be swallowed and continued to be chewed.

“Yeah, she is. The best.” Dazai smiled again before looking up at Chuuya. “Where did you learn to cook? Some expensive cooking class for four year olds? Rich families love this kind of thing, don't they?”

Chuuya found himself chuckling, shaking his head. The morsel had finally been swallowed.

"No, my parents thought they were useless. What's the point of cooking if there's a chef who can do whatever I want? They always said that” He rolled his eyes at the memory. Dazai also wrinkled his nose. “I had to learn to stop my best friend from eating junk food all day finish our money on take-away. I can be considered self-taught.”

“Mm. So you're the one burning the food between us, am I wrong?” Chuuya rolled his eyes in amusement.

“After two years I learned, but yes. I admit that sometimes I don't cook the best dishes in the world.”

Dazai laughed and their dinner continued like this, filling the silent house with casual chatter, laughter and a few attempts from Chuuya to kick Dazai from under the table, but failing due to the distance.

“Do you want to watch something?”

Dazai asked sitting on the sofa, after he changed in his home clothing. He boredily scrolled through the movie catalog on the TV while Chuuya cleaned the dirty dishes and pans in the kitchen. He had volunteered since Dazai had cooked and it wasn't much anyway.

Sure enough, he appeared through the door after a few minutes and sat down next to him. He obviously kept a decent safe distance, thank you very much. Especially now that the asshole had decided to wear those glasses again.

Chuuya was silently cursing him, refusing to turn around “There is an anime that has inspired me for a long time, but I never have the time to start it.” He said and took the remote when Dazai handed it.

So they spent their time, together and in silence, without the risk of arguing. Chuuya watched the episodes, finding the plot interesting after a while and Dazai had grabbed the computer from the other room and started writing something, occasionally looking up.

“So, who's the villain here? Him?” From time to time Dazai asked questions to appear at least a little involved and Chuuya answered calmly without stopping looking.

“No, he's just an idiot who claims to hate the protagonist. I'm sure the real bad guy is more badass or at least I hope so.” Chuuya muttered, reaching for the remote to pause.

“Do you have nothing to eat at all? Watching anime without food is lame.” He turned to him. Dazai looked up and shook his head, making Chuuya snort and watch him fall all the way back into the pillows.

“I usually save them for others, but yesterday you finished them all. And Chuuya's presence this morning prevented me from going shopping too." Dazai chuckled and Chuuya would have pouted if it wasn't Dazai in front of him.

“Well let's go now then. Quick ride to the 24/7.”

“If you really want to go then do it yourself. I'm not coming with you." He said, then returning to look at the screen, typing something on the keyboard.

“But I don't have the car!” Chuuya exclaimed, offended. He even leaned over to get his attention again.

“Sounds like your problem.” Dazai continued to ignore him.

Chuuya, definitely annoyed, snorted and leaned a little more, Seeing it didn't work either he got up, heading the kitchen again. “Fuck. You're really an asshole, Osamu!”

Dazai's whole body seemed to freeze. Fingers in mid-air, his eyes on the screen and his stiff back. His gaze quickly moved to the redhead's back as he watched him disappear behind the wall.

There must have been a shocked expression on his face. He decreed it given the way he could feel his eyes growing bigger and his mouth slightly open.

Osamu. Chuuya said his name. Not his last name or any other stupid insult he came up with from time to time, but his name.

Osamu.

“No, I must have heard wrong.” Dazai said to himself, relaxing enough to look back at the computer.

“But what if I hadn't? Why would he ever call me by name? It's so disrespectful.” The flow of thoughts ran like a train, making him turn up his nose.

Being called by his first name didn't bother Dazai. Odasaku almost always called him that and Gin sometimes preferred to use that too. Tachihara wasn't close enough to do it and Akutagawa was definitely too respectful, but that's to say he had gotten used to hearing his name.

So why did it feel so different with Chuuya? Enough to make him stare at the screen with an unreadable gaze.

“It must be because I hate him.” He thought. “Yes, it has to be like this.”

“What's with that face?” Chuuya asked returning from the kitchen with a glass of water in one hand and bitten apple in the other. He placed the glass on the coffee table and sat down again.

“Face? What face?” Dazai feigned indifference. He couldn't do it.

“Like when you were a teen and a porn suddenly opened while you were watching a movie and being caught by your parents. You're so red...Wait. You aren't watching porn on that computer are you?” Chuuya looked at him skeptically and that didn't help Dazai's already obvious embarrassment.

“What? No! Of course I'm not watching a porn, Chuuya!” He snorted, turning the computer over for further proof and showing the writing app. Chuuya narrowed his eyes.

“Well, you could always have closed the page, but that's okay. There wouldn't be anything wrong with it. Just don't do it with me next to you, thanks.” He shrugged, taking another bite of the fruit.

“I wasn't watching a porn, Chuuya.” Dazai sighed, looking at him out of the corner of his eye. “Did you call me by my name before?”

He asked and really hoped to get a no or a confused (disgusted even) face from Chuuya, but...

“Yeah, I did” Chuuya shrugged.

“Why?”

“Why not? You call me by my first name.”

“That's because everybody does that! No one calls you Nakahara.” Dazai snorted. Nobody but him.

“Yes, and you also let others call you by your name.” Chuya retorted, looking at him confused and even a little amused.

“Yeah, but I didn't give you permission to do that. It's disrespectful!”

“I didn't give you permission either – quite the opposite if you think about it – but you continue to do it. I think it's right that I do the same. Don't you think too...” Chuuya smiled, getting a little too close by Dazai's standards “...Osamu?”

Dazai was quick to close the computer, ignoring that he hadn't saved the file, and stood up. “I'm going to bed.”

He said and walked faster than he would have liked towards the hallway, making Chuuya chuckle and watch him go.

“You know..I might even stop if you take me to 24/7 to get some snacks.” He commented innocently, causing Dazai to turn around for a silent moment.

“I'm going to bed.” He said again and disappeared completely, leaving the redhead alone in the living room.

Chuuya then spent the next two hours alone, continuing the anime that he had paused. The way his stomach growled was annoying, but he resigned himself. He certainly couldn't go out alone at 11 p.m, having neither the house keys nor the slightest idea of ​​where the nearest store was.

When he felt tired enough to turn off the tv he didn't really know if Dazai wanted him to stay for the night, but since he didn't have anyone to hitch a ride with, he decided to stay.

He turned everything off and walked towards the same room as earlier that morning, surprised to find a pair of Dazai's sweatpants and t-shirt folded at the end of the bed.

He smiled in the secrecy of the room and closed the door behind him, preparing to go to sleep. He made sure to close the curtains tightly this time and set the alarm before getting under the covers and falling asleep almost immediately.

However, his sleep didn't go uninterrupted. An annoying background noise made him wake up in the dark room, forcing him to blindly look for the phone on the bedside table to check the time.

The high brightness made him close his eyes, but soon he could see that it was barely two thirty in the morning. He looked towards the closed door from which the sound came and with a snort he threw off the covers to go and see.

Once he opened the door he wasn't surprised to see a dim light coming from the living room and that the noises were coming from there too.

“Is this a guitar?” He thought as he looked out only to see the TV playing the anime Chuuya was watching earlier and Dazai sitting on the floor with a guitar, playing it. In the background, though almost imperceptible, was the ticking of the wall clock.

The room was dark except for the cold light of the television, forcing Chuuya to get closer in order to be noticed.

“Dazai.” He said, making the other gasp and he turned to look at him, stopping playing. “What the hell are you doing? It's half past two in the morning."

He muttered, rubbing his eyes still bothered by the light.

“Sorry, I couldn't sleep. I'll be quieter” Dazai said with a little smile. Not that Chuuya was smart enough to notice.

“Yeah, whatever.” He mumbled, ready to get back into his bed. “You should sleep too, anyway. We have a wake-up call in a few hours."

“I'm an insomniac, but thanks for the advice. I'll try to follow it."

"Insomnia? And how do you not have crazy dark bags under your eyes?” Chuuya turned to look at him, confused.

“I do my makeup and then I usually ask Odasaku or the others to come to me or I go to them. The company helps me a lot.” Dazai shrugged.

"Just that? Come sleep with me then, alright? Idiot." Chuuya muttered and walked out of the living room, quickly returning to bed. He was so tired that he ignored the sound of the tv in the distance and fell asleep as soon as he touched the pillow. Dazai meanwhile kept his gaze where Chuuya had just disappeared, surprised for the second time in a day. What the hell was happening to that guy? Before he accepted his invitation to go out; then he called him by his name twice and now he invited him to sleep in the same bed?

He was probably crazy.

Dazai remained in the leaving room for another hour. He put the guitar aside so as not to disturb Chuuya further and watched the anime at an acceptable volume.

He decided to turn everything off and go back to his room only when his eyes started to hurt and he subtitles started to blurry. The silence of the house and the annoying ticking of the clock hit him again as he walked down the hall, driving him crazy.

He stopped in front of the room where Chuuya was sleeping. The door had been left half open, and the hallway light illuminated the inside enough to see the bed. In it Chuuya was sleeping soundly, taking up most of the bed and with his mouth slightly open against the pillow.

Dazai smiled, touched by the scene and remained there, hesitant. He moved his gaze to the empty side of the bed and sighed, reaching out to flip the hallway light switch.

He carefully approached the bed and, trying not to wake Chuuya, laid down. Unfortunately for him he found himself with very little space – he couldn't understand how someone so small could take up so much space -but he didn't care much since he fell asleep as soon as he touched the pillow.

Chapter Text

Chuuya had never considered himself a morning person. Even when he worked the early shift at the cafè he had to force his body out of bed.

He loved the feeling of being wrapped in heavy blankets and Dazai's unfairly comfortable bed wasn't helping. In fact, it was even warmer than last time, making Chuuya roll onto his side, rolling around in the blankets.

He found himself pressed against a solid weight and slowly opened his eyes, trying to focus on the dimly lit room.

When his gaze rose to Dazai's sleep-relaxed face he moved away as if he had been burned, suddenly wide awake. However, that didn't wake Dazai.

Chuuya took his phone from the nightstand, checking the time.

He wasn't a morning person, but he had never been this awake at seven.

Unlike Dazai who, despite being a morning person, was sleeping soundly next to him.

Chuuya sighed and turned off his phone, collapsing back into bed as he stared at the ceiling above them.

Finding Dazai in the same bed as him didn't confuse Chuuya - he had invited him himself after all - but it certainly surprised him. He hadn't expected the man to actually accept.

He glanced to the side and Dazai was still fast asleep with his face relaxed, chest heaving and lips parted. Chuuya allowed himself a longer look.

He wasn't used to sleeping with people he hadn't been fucked by. The only one was Albatross who loved to sneak in late at night, needing attention. He had always thought that waking up with someone next to him would be awkward without being able to do those stupid flirts that made the morning less tense.

With Dazai, however, he couldn't do that. In fact, he couldn't even know how Dazai would react once he realized he had slept next to the boy he hated.

Chuuya should have been uncomfortable, but he wasn't. He couldn't find a shred of embarrassment inside himself as he enjoyed the weight of the other body weighing down the bed or the warmth it gave off.

Dazai was warm and he could feel it even though they were far away, tempting him to move closer.

He forced himself to stand up, however, shivering at the difference in temperature in the room. The first chill of October was making itself felt, forcing him to steal the hoodie he had ignored the night before.

Dazai's house was still completely unfamiliar to him, but not so much that he couldn't reach the bathroom. He rinsed his face, looked up at the mirror and wrinkled his nose. His hair was a mess, but at least his face looked well-rested.

Walking down the hall to the kitchen, Chuuya didn't peek into the other rooms. He wanted to; temptation was gnawing at him silently, but he couldn't make up for it if Dazai caught him.

He simply headed to the kitchen in dire need of a cup of coffee. He knew the man had to have it somewhere given the embarrassing amounts he drank every day. Chuuya rummaged through the drawers until he found it, then walked over to the moka.

He decided to make some for Dazai as well. After all, their meeting at PM Labels was still a while away, but he had a feeling Dazai would be joining him for breakfast soon.

He was right. Less than half an hour later, a faint sound of footsteps made him turn around. Chuuya had long since finished his coffee and was simply staring at his phone, sitting on the stool.

Dazai appeared from the door, wearing his sweatpants, hair disheveled, and eyes still closed from sleep. He muttered something that sounded more like a grunt than words and Chuuya had to keep from chuckling.

"Morning. I made coffee." That didn't seem to wake Dazai up though and he walked over to the moka like a zombie.

Only when he sat down in front of the redhead he bother to speak to him.

"How long have you been up?"

"Not much. Half an hour maybe." Chuuya shrugged, looking back at his phone. The conversion died there for a bit and they both enjoyed the silence. Dazai had yet to fully wake up and Chuuya didn't often get quiet mornings living with Albatross.

"We're stopping at Sigma's on our way to the agency. I'm going to need a triple dose of coffee to deal with that woman today." Dazai said and Chuuya looked at him.

"She's not that bad. You're overreacting as usual."

"I'm not. Chuuya's just blind."

"And Osamu is just an idiot."

Chuuya smirked as Dazai looked at him. Lips straight and annoyed face.

"Again with this?" He raised both eyebrows and Chuuya shrugs again.

"You wanted the game. Now play." and with a final smirk he stood up to go get ready.

Dazai has always been quiet. As a child he was more introverted and reserved than others, but despite that the other children weigh on him when they were around. He wasn't loud or funny, much less sociable, yet he had always had someone around him. Someone who loved him.

Dazai then discovered over time within himself the tendency to drive anyone who came close to his personal sphere crazy. Jokes, pranks, little teasing. He loved seeing the disconcerting or angry expressions of his friends and colleagues at his shenanigans.

Reluctantly he was also doing it with Chuuya more than anyone else.

So he decided that not only he would play that game, but he'd also come out on top. In more than a way since not only it would mess with Chuuya, but it'd also satisfy Mori in terms of visibility.

Like that he started the day with a newfound ambition.

Yamamoto Aiko was a cruel woman or at least that's how Dazai described her. The only woman in PM labels - besides Hiroko - who never gave in to his questionable flirting attempts to escape his duties.

Every time he tried, the woman would glare at him. Once she even forced him into the lounge until he learned. Needless to say, they were both going crazy with each other over the past few years.

Having that cold, calculating look on him again made Dazai shiver.

"It looks like we have to see each other again, Mr. Dazai." She said and Dazai decided to do the only thing he was really good at.

Don't be good.

"Yamamoto-san! It's nice to see you again. You look beautiful as always." He smiled and Chuuya sighed.

"Don't start." She pointed at him with her pen.

"How's your daughter? And the grandchildren? They must have grown up a lot by now." Chuuya nudged him.

"Not that it concerns you. Now, shut it." She said imperturbably, then turning to the tv on the wall and turning it on. Immediately one of the videos that had filmed them bickering at the bar was shown.

Dazai sighed and then looked down at the redhead who was wrinkling his nose at it.

In the past few days, both of them had avoided the topic and every post about it. Comments particularly.

Chuuya felt embarrassed hearing his friends talking about it. Albatross and Lippman kept him glued to their group chat for hours. Pianoman's attempts to change the subject were useless. However, seeing it there in full view and in front of his tutor was even more humiliating.

"We will work together in the coming weeks and transform whatever this is into behavior that two normal and civilized people should have with each other." Aiko stopped the video by standing in front of them again.

“So you’re going to tell us how to look like two idiots in love in front of the cameras?” Chuuya raised an eyebrow and Aiko glared at him.

“That matter is not my concern. Others will tell you what to do or not to do for that. I am more purely to teach you the bearing that a couple in the entertainment world is expected to have,” she said, turning and walking to the wall mirror.

“It seems the same to me,” Chuuya muttered, but followed her.

“Now, from a public figure people always expect the best. Dazai knows this well, but you, Nakahara, don’t yet. You must always be happy, always know what to say, and always look composed. Every wrong expression, gesture, or word can lead to the end of your career.” Aiko spoke while tapping the pen on her palm and taking small steps back and forth. “Couples are expected to work twice as hard. Not only do audiences expect perfection from the individual parts, but also from the couple itself. You have to make your love story looks like the ones in the movies.”

“Easy if we’re talking about a horror movie,” Dazai muttered, and Chuuya hid a smile.

“So the three of us will work on this and make sure that behavior like that never happens again in open doors.” She then looked at Chuuya, “And in the meantime, I’ll teach you how to be a decent human being on your own.”

Chuuya wanted to go back to bed.

“No, wait a second,” Tachihara laughed, as he leaned over the couch. One hand in the bag of chips. “What did she make you do?”

Chuuya gave him a lethal look, kicking him in the side.

They had been rehearsing for hours now without stopping. Odasaku and Dazai had been stricter than usual about the breaks, only letting them breathe for a few minutes while they went to get everyone coffee.

"Don't make me repeat myself," he barked, looking over at Akutagawa. "What do you want?"

He shrugged. "I Just think it would be fun to see you two interact in such a way."

"I think it would be fun to smash your face in." Chuuya growled, moving to come closer.

"Okay, calm down!" Gin stepped in, stopping them. "Ryu, don't be such a baby, and Chuuya, I'm really proud of you for doing that. We all know you have a grudge against Osamu in here."

Chuuya wrinkled his nose, but he fell back into place. He even stole some chips from Tachihara, silencing his complaints.

"A grudge. After today I will torture him in every way possible. I swear that idiot was doing that on purpose."

Memories of the previous hours came flooding back to him (as if they had ever left). Aiko had forced them to rehearse a scene where they would be in front of fans and reporters.
They were supposed to just act normal and smile, maybe stand a little closer. At most hold hands. Enough to seem intimate.

It was a pain, but Chuuya could take it.

However, at one point that bastard had literally grabbed him by the waist and dragged him towards. Fingers digging into his flesh through his clothes to make sure he couldn't escape while continuing to wave and smile at the non-existent crowd.

Again, it was sudden and a real pain, but Chuuya had digested the morsel and moved on. It didn't stop there tho.

From that moment on, Dazai was stuck to him like a leech. He never moved more than five feets away and found any excuse to touch him. He even brought a sandwich from Sigma's and Chuuya hated him for remembering his order from last time.

"Probably. Don't react and maybe he'll stop." She said, then smiled when saw Odasaku and Dazai come back with coffees in hand. "Finally! Give me my baby!"

Soon Dazai was in front of Chuuya with arm outstretched and his coffee. Once Chuuya took it he sat down, stretching his legs enough to accidentally touch him.
Chuuya didn't comment, losing himself in the deliciousness of the coffee.

"We won't be rehearsing tomorrow afternoon. We have the cover shooting for the band." Odasaku broke the silence as he stood up to throw away his cup. "We'll meet in the hall at the usual time. Don't be late."

"Stop looking at me every time you said that. I'm not late anymore!" Dazai pouted.

"You were late today. At least make sure Chuuya isn't late because of you too." Odasaku sighed as he looked at them both. Dazai chuckled.

"Not my fault Chuuya's slow at eating." He nudged his leg with his foot.

"You were gone for half an hour for a stupid sandwich. Should I have stuffed myself?" Chuuya glared at him, kicking him away.

"It would be such a lovely view. Try choke too." Dazai smirked, getting into a better position and not bothering the redhead anymore.

When rehearsals ended two hours later Chuuya was never so happy to go home. He wanted to run eating something and he had to do it soon or he would take the most crowded train, arriving home when it was already dark.

"Come on, let's go." Dazai walked past him, while playing with his car keys. Chuuya looked at him confused. "What? Don't you need a ride home or something?"

"I- ...I don't?" He tilted his head. What the hell is wrong with this bastard today? He thought.

"I thought so since you came with me this morning, but it's okay. See you tomorrow then." With that he left the room.

Chuuya did the same right after, speeding up his pace to catch up with him. He found him in front of the elevator that luckily hadn't arrived yet.

"Wait, idiot. I could use a ride." He stopped, next to him with his eyes fixed on the still closed doors. The feeling of a gaze that was studying him.

"Now, that's not a nice way to ask for a favor." Dazai chuckled, forcing him to meet his gaze.

Chuuya sighed and entered first when the elevator arrived. Dazai was next to him again, but closer than he wanted.

"You offered to do it first."

"Yeah, but you should still ask nicely or I might think you're just using me."
"But I am using you." Chuuya chuckled, then turned fully to face him and stepped closer.

The difference in height between them was a weakness for the redhead and he secretly loved it. He liked it even more how Dazai wasn't moving away, maintaining his position and his gaze on his face.

He liked it, but it was a battle he was losing. He huffed and took a step away.

"Can you take me home?" He looked away, but he could still feel Dazai's gaze waiting for more. "... please?"

Dazai smiled and nodded, then exited the elevator to walk to his car. "Now that's a good answer, Chuuya."

“I'm gonna kill him.” Chuuya said more to himself than to the man as he got into the passenger seat. He then took over the GPS to input his home address as Dazai pulled out of the parking lot.

“You don't live that far away. I don't understand why you take the train all the time.” Dazai said at one point as they stopped at the traffic light. He turned to him.

“I don't use them every day and they're cheaper than gas.”

“As long as you don't risk being late. Ask your roommate to take you or something if you don't want to waste gas.” Chuuya looked at him.

“He works too. Why do you care so much? You're being weird.” He turned off the phone, turning fully toward him. The light turned green.

“I don't. I told you I don't want you to be late. That's all.”

“When have I ever been late?”

“Today?”

“It was your fault!” Chuuya exclaimed, making Dazai laugh. “I won't be late, but if you're that worried you can always come pick me up every day.”

“Maybe I will.” He shrugged and Chuuya sighed in despair “What?”

Chuuya tried to convince himself that he was imagining it all. That maybe Dazai was just getting used to his presence or that he was trying to act like Mori, Aiko, and Odasaku expected them to do in front of the cameras. Chuuya wanted to think that Dazai was like that just for work, but...

“You’ve been acting weird since this morning. If it’s that marketing bullshit you can just avoid it as long as we’re alone. You’re getting on my nerves.”

Dazai laughed, then turned off the main road to stop in front of Chuuya’s house. The GPS announcing that they had reached their destination. For a moment neither of them spoke. Chuuya looked at Dazai and Dazai towards Chuuya.

When he also turned around he saw Albatross’s figure in the doorway, aiming for the Mercedes.

“I’m just playing at the little game we're having, Chuuya. I’ll see you here tomorrow at noon.” He smiled. He actually had the nerve to smile at him like that and Chuuya saw red for a second.

“You’re so dead.” He said before swinging the door open and leaving, climbing the stairs so fast he could take two steps at a time. Albatross looked at him confused as Chuuya ignored a voice coming from behind them.

“See you tomorrow, sweety. Wear something pretty!” Dazai yelled through the rolled-down window.

“Go fuck yourself!” Chuuya yelled back, then entered the house with an even more shocked Albatross following him.

“Okay, what's going on?” The blond asked as he sat on the couch, watching his friend pace the living room.

“I'm gonna kill him, 'Tross. For real this time.”

“Can you calm down a sec? I haven't seen you in two days; Tachihara sends me a weird text and I find you in a car with the man you hate yelling at you in the driveway. I'm confused.”

Chuuya stopped. “Text? What text?”

“Something like beware Chuuya's is out for blood. I was worried!” Albatross said and Chuuya sighed, flopping down next to him on the couch.
“That idiot Mori had the brilliant idea to have us pretend to be a couple and now I'm stuck with that idiot in stupid etiquette lessons.”

“That still doesn't explain the yelling from earlier and where you were last night.” Chuuya raised an eyebrow.

“How do you know I wasn't home last night exactly?”

“When I got back at seven this morning you weren't there and your bed was done.”

“What are you? My mom checking to see if I'm sleeping?” Chuuya chuckled and Albatross shrugged.

“Nah, I just had a really cool story to tell you about my shift. You weren't there though. Were you with Dazai?”

“Ah?! No?! I woke up early to go for a run.” No one spoke for a few seconds.

“I might believe the part about running, but you waking up early in the morning?” Albatross laughed, making the redhead sigh.

“Okay fine! I was with him. We need some alone time so he thought his apartment would be perfect. Away from paparazzi or reporters. I didn’t mean to stay over, but that idiot fell asleep first and couldn’t take me home. Stop laughing!” He grabbed the pillow, hitting the blond repeatedly who was both laughing that trying to protect himself.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry!” Albatross said as he caught his breath. “This is surreal. It's like watching a movie”

“Yeah, a traumatic, horrible and bloody horror.” Chuuya snorted, sinking into the pillows.

“It depends on your point of view.” Albatross relaxed and reached across the coffee table to grab his phone. “At least you didn’t sleep with him. Although I don’t think we're far from that.”

He turned to his friend, ready to jump away from the kick. Chuuya didn’t move or say anything, though. He blushed and looked away.

“Chuuya?!” The blond stood up, leaning towards him and was then pushed away.

“We didn’t! We just shared a bed. You pervert!” He yelled, hitting him again.

“What else am I supposed to think? You two are weird together. You look like you’re ready to jump on each other at any moment.”

“Yes to kill him and dance on his grave!” Chuuya yelled again, redder than ever.

“That’s not what I’ve seen so far!” Albatross urged, not taking his eyes off Chuuya who closed his eyes in surrender.

“We’re not fucking and we’ll never do that. However, I may have started a little game between us and now that idiot won’t stop bothering me.” Chuuya continued, annoyed by the sigh that left his friend’s mouth. “What? He started it!”

“then don’t follow him!” Albatross snapped back, exasperated.

“No?! I can’t let him win!” and that’s pretty exciting too, it wasn’t said.

“You’re unbelievable, Chuuya. Men always make you stupid.”

“That’s not true at all. I have everything under control.” Chuuya looked at him offended, then took his phone and ignored Albatross.

“So you don’t think he’ll come here tomorrow?” He asked and Chuuya didn’t answer, continuing to ignore him.

Five minutes of silence passed before Chuuya looked up at him and spoke again. “Don’t say anything to Lipp about this.” Albatross looked back at him, not saying anything. “You’re already texting him, aren't you?”

“Whaaaatt?”

He was doomed

When Chuuya woke up the next day he knew it was going to be a good day. The time was past ten and he still had plenty of time to get things done before he had to leave for the agency. Kunikida had also canceled his singing lessons for the day so he could relax.

He filled his time by eating breakfast and cleaning home. Albatross was on the morning shift so there was no one to disturb his peace Or at least that's what he thought.

It was almost noon as he fought the urge to get up and go to the kitchen to make lunch. He had put on the anime he had started at Dazai's house and was too interested to pause it.

Suddenly a long blast from a car horn made him jump. He looked confusedly towards the window, but decided to do nothing. It had to be one of his neighbors or someone who was about to have an accident. He went back to watching the episode.

After not even a minute another honk made him jump again, followed by another and another and another.

“For fuck sake!” He exclaimed and pulled the blanket off his legs, shivering at the cold air against his bare legs.

It can’t be him , he thought and hoped as he reached the front door and opened it wide enough to look, but not step out. He was still in his t-shirt and boxers after all.

The sight of a black car and Dazai leaning against the driver’s side door filled his chest with anger. He threw open the door.

“Are you kidding me?!” He yelled as Dazai looked up at him, smiling.

“Now, that's a pretty view.” He chuckled and Chuuya slammed the door shut, returning to the couch. He turned the TV back on and forced himself to stay there. He wouldn’t move for nothing. It didn’t matter if the neighbors complained or Dazai knocked on his door. He wouldn’t move.

The opening of the that said door however sent shivers along the pine. Even more so the figure of the man who walked in undisturbed, looking around.

“Such a pretty house you have. Cozy.” He said as he stopped to look at the photo hanging on the wall. It was of Chuuya with Albatross’s family two years ago when they had gone to visit his father for the holidays.

“What the hell are you doing here?! Get out of my house!” Chuuya shouted, covering himself with the blanket and throwing one of the pillows at him.

“But Chuuya it's our second date! I even brought lunch!” Dazai pouted, holding up the bag he was holding.

“I don’t want it! Go eat it somewhere else and suffocate with it!” Chuuya yelled again, trying to hit him again as Dazai moved towards the kitchen.

“Where do you keep the plates? I don’t think it’s cold enough to heat it up yet.” He said, ignoring Chuuya’s every attempt to make him go away. He started opening the drawers, rejoicing when he found two plates he could use.

“I told you to go away!” Chuuya caught up to him shortly and Dazai looked down at his now covered legs, scrunching up his nose.

What the fuck is this perverted bastard scrunching up his nose for? Chuuya thought as he reached over to grab his shoulders and push him. “Go away.”

“But Chuuya, I told you I’d come over. You’re so mean to me,” Dazai pouted as he let himself be pushed towards the front door without putting up any resistance.

“And I told you not to come,” he yelled, then opened the door. “Now go away.”

"Technically you didn't. You told me to go fuck myself." Dazai didn't move and Chuuya wanted to scream in frustration.

"It's basically the same thing!"

"You should still be more specific, but if it's what you want I'll leave. Is that what you really want?" Dazai looked at him, serious.

"Yes, very much. Bye! Thank you for nothing." Chuuya tried to push him away again, this time failing. The man didn't move an inch except to step aside, nearly knocking him over.

"Too bad. I'm not in the mood to leave!" He shrugged as he walked back to the kitchen. Chuuya stood in the doorway watching the scene, too shocked to speak.

"You coming? Food's getting cold." He heard Dazai yell from the kitchen and he walked over to it, finding the man sitting at the table eating as if he was meant to be there; as if that was his house.

"You crazy bastard," Chuuya hissed as he sat down in front of his plate as well. He glanced at Dazai before starting to eat, spearing the rice with the chopsticks.

"So...is it good?" Dazai asked after swallowing another bite, moving the food around on his plate.

"It sucks. I hope you choke on it," Chuuya retorted and Dazai chuckled.

"It would be lame, but I can live with it." He said and silence fell again, letting them finish their meal in a calm, yet still tense, atmosphere.

Dazai stood up first and took both empty plates to the sink to clean them. Chuuya had no way to feel remorse for making him work. Dazai deserved it.

He was back on the couch watching TV when Dazai appeared from the kitchen, stopping once more in front of the frame.

"He's your roommate, right?" He asked. Chuuya didn't look away.

"Yeah. Why?"

"Just that?"

Chuuya looked at him, raising an eyebrow. "What are you trying to say?"

"I just wanted to know if I got you in trouble with your boyfriend last night." Dazai shrugged as he walked over to the couch, sitting down next to Chuuya.

"Even if I did, would you care?" Chuuya followed him with his gaze. Dazai's was on the TV.

"Not really." He shrugged.

"Well then." Chuuya is back watching it as well.

"So...Is he?" Dazai asked again, peeking at the redhead out of the corner of his eye.

"Shut up, Dazai. None of your damn business." Chuuya sighed, rubbing his temples. He was getting a headache.

"But it is! I need to know if I risk your crazy jealous boyfriend wanting to smash my face in!" Dazai exclaimed, turning to him.

Chuuya wanted to die or kill. Either was fine with him.

"Okay! First of all Albatross is not crazy jealous and second he's not my boyfriend! I have no one so don't worry about your ugly stupid face!" Chuuya snorted, turning to look at him and there was more sincerity in his gaze than Dazai had ever seen.

"And even if there was someone it wouldn't matter because what we have-" he pointed at both of them with his index finger "- is nothing. It's all fake. You better remember that."

Dazai swallowed as he held his gaze. His face was serious and his jaw hurt from how tense it was. There was something about that sentence - those eyes - that made him grit his teeth.

"Understood." He said and stood up, then ripped the blanket off the redhead's body. Before he could even protest he grabbed his arm, forcing him to stand up.

"What the hell?! Let me go!" Chuuya screamed as he was carried over his shoulder. He punched the man's back and kicked. Dazai groaned in pain a few times, but continued on his way to the front door.

Chuuya's eyes widened as he watched his house slip away and the cold October air hit his body.

"What the fuck are you doing?! Dazai, I'm still in my pj!" He screamed as the man opened the back door of his car and threw Chuuya onto the seats. Chuuya, finally free, moved quickly to get out, but not fast enough. He found himself with the door slammed in his face and the lock jammed.

"What the fuck?! Bastard let me out!" He screamed, slamming his hands against the window and trying to force the handle. Dazai on the other side of the glass was grinning in victory. "I'll kill you! Let me out!"

"Sorry, chibi. I don't think I understand what you're saying!" He chuckled as he walked away to go back into the house. Chuuya hit the glass again, hard enough to hurt himself.

"Bastard!" He screamed again as he climbed over the front seats. He knew that in theory even if Dazai had locked the doors behind the front ones could still open. He just had to hope Dazai hadn't activated the deadlock.

Which of course he had, forcing Chuuya to sink into the seat.

He didn't even have his phone handy to call anyone. He was stuck in Dazai's stupid expensive car in his pajamas with the bastard wandering around his house without permission.

Chuuya wished he had never opened the door when Dazai started honking like crazy.
The thought pissed him off, but at the same time-

"Come out, asshole," he said as if Dazai could hear him as the entire street filled with the sound of the horn once again. Through the window Chuuya could see people stopping and even his neighbors looking out to see what was going on, but there was no sign of Dazai.

The man appeared at the top of the stairs after more than fifteen minutes with bag in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. He walked down the stairs as if nothing had happened, smiling at the others and talking to his neighbors.

"Sorry, sorry! My dog ​​must be impatient!" Dazai chuckled, as he opened the door and looked at Chuuya sitting in the driver's seat with his hand still on the horn. "Hello to you too, Chuuya. Did you calm down?"

The man was looking down at him, blocking the exit with his body and his arm resting on the door post. He was smiling, looking at Chuuya like he was an angry kitten.

Or a dog, in this case.

Chuuya's eyes were bloodshot as he kept his hand on the steering wheel, not intending to let go. He liked to think that could be his foot against the man's dick. He would stomp on him even harder.

"Don't look at me like that. Come on, we gotta go! It's late." He took out his phone and showed it to Chuuya who's eyes widened.

02:04 p.m. and they must be at the agency... four minutes ago.

"Piece of shit!" He yelled as he quickly moved to the passenger seat and watched Dazai get into the car. The man started the engine and then placed Chuuya's phone and bag on his lap.

"Calm down, we're just a little late" Dazai chuckled as Chuuya rummaged around inside. "I even brought you your clothes and locked the front door. You should thank me"

"Thank you?!" Chuuya yelled as he took off his shirt and put on the hoodie Dazai had brought him.

“You're welcome!” Dazai smiled.

Chuuya ignored him and the fact that he must had searched his closet so as not to kill him and run them both off the road. Normally, getting naked in a moving car would be embarrassing for Chuuya, but he knew the windows were tinted and he was too angry to worry about Dazai seeing him bare.

When he was finally fully dressed and with his hair as neat as possible, he picked up his phone that had fallen halfway to the seat. He turned it on and...

1:45 pm.

Chuuya looked at his lock screen and also at the car's display, but said nothing and he kept saying nothing for the rest of the ride.

He was strangely silent as he stared out and tapped a finger against his arm.

He said nothing when Dazai rolled down the window to swipe his parking pass.

He said nothing when they got out of the car.

He said nothing while they were both in the elevator.

And he still didn't say nothing when the doors opened to the crowded lobby of the agency.

Chuuya didn't even speak to or greet Odasaku who had done it first. He simply walked briskly towards Tachihara and grabbed him by the arm, dragging him towards the bathrooms.

Everyone watched the scene in amazement (except Dazai who was smiling satisfied) and the brothers were quick to follow the others towards. Gin worried and Ryuunosuke curious.

Odasaku instead turned to his friend with a pained look and sighed. "What have you done now?"

"Chuuya! Wait a minute hey!" Tachihara exclaimed as he was dragged. His wrist hurt from how much Chuuya was squeezing it. So much that he had to massage it when he was released.

"I'll kill him, Tachihara! I swear he's dead!" Chuuya screamed and if anyone had been present in that bathroom they would surely have come out of the stalls to take a peak. Tachihara looked at him without saying anything, then turned around when the brothers arrived too. Gin closer to the door since it was the men's bathroom.

"What happened?" Tachihara asked, shivering at the glare he received. "Did he do something?"

"Of course he did something! He's being an ass!" Chuuya yelled again, pacing back and forth in a vain attempt to calm down.

"As always" the redhead muttered.

"Chuuya, maybe you should sit. You need to calm down." Gin tried to speak, coming closer.

"I swear, Gin. He's dead. He wanted to play and now he'll see. He'll see!" He exclaimed again and walked past them all, reaching again for the hall.

At that moment Chuuya promised himself that he would do anything to see Dazai Osamu fall.

Hard.

Chapter Text

After years of hanging out in clubs, Chuuya thought he was used to physical touch. After all, those places were filled with sweaty, horny people, looking for the slightest stimulation. He had lost count of the times he had found himself dragged against someone's cock or with some girl clinging to his arm.

That's to say that Chuuya had become accustomed to being touched even when he didn't want to. That habit, however, seemed to disappear as the staff members dragged him around like a rag doll.

The drive to the planned location had taken them more than thirty minutes to arrive, moving away from the busy center of the city to reach the more peripheral areas. Following their van were two more with the staff and equipment in them.

Now they were in a supposedly abandoned warehouse temporarily set up as the set for the first shooting. The make-up artists had quickly set up a corner to work in and forced them to sit down and get ready. The hairstylists were also working with them while in the distance Chuuya could see the actual set being finished in the last details.

"Stop moving. You'll ruin your eyeliner." He was scolded by his MUA, Emi, while she took some product with a brush.

"I'm not ruining it." Chuuya muttered while he closed his eyes to let her work and enjoy that moment of calm. Unlike the stylists Emi was calm and didn't work quickly or nervous.

As soon as they arrived on site Chuuya was immediately dragged to try on clothes. They made him dress and undress until they found suitable combinations. He felt dragged from one side to another and judged like never before. Everything from his body, to the way he stood to even the way he breathed seemed wrong.

Emi and the hairstylists on the other hand were not bad, except when they pulled his hair to style it.

"Okay, all set. Don't touch your face or hair." The girl said as she took a step away, grabbing a mirror. "What do you think?"

The one in the reflection didn't look like him. His skin was like porcelain and a little color was given by the lipstick and red eyeshadow. Also, the eyeliner and the hair tied up made his face look drawn and his eyes more elongated.

"I think you rock, Chuuya!" Gin leaned out from the station next to him smiling, as he pushed away his MUA who was trying to do her eyes. In fact, she took the products herself, scolding her for the not sharp enough eyeliner.

"Let me see." Akutagawa looked away, studying Chuuya's face out of the corner of his eye. He then turned back to let his boy work "it's not bad."

"Since when you are an expert?" Gin raised an eyebrow, looking at her brother from across Chuuya's station.

"I don't need to be an expert to give an opinion."

"You should at least know what you're talking about though." Ryuu snorted and Gin stuck her tongue out at him.

Chuuya was ignoring them all, kept looking at himself in the mirror.

"It's very good. Thanks Emi." He said as he handed it back to her, earning a smile in return.

"Good. Don't mess with it," she advised before walking away, leaving Chuuya alone. He stretched out his legs, finally being able to relax, wrinkling his nose at the feeling of the corset pressing against his ribs.

Out of the three outfits chosen, this was - according to Higuchi - the least comfortable of all so Chuuya was surviving in the hope of being able to take it off soon.

To tell the truth, he was relatively simple, with black palazzo pants embellished with a red dragon embroidery and a burgundy satin shirt. It fell loosely on his body and folded where it was tightened by the dark corset. Furthermore, the loose buttons exposed a good part of his chest and the entire neck that was however covered by the jewels. Those that fell from his ears and weighed down his hands.

"Are you comfy?" A voice made him open his eyes, finding himself in front of Dazai's face who was looking down at him with a smirk.

The redhead didn't answer, keeping his eyes on him for a few seconds. Even from the uncomfortable position he could see how the leader's face had gotten prettier thanks to the professional makeup. It was less intense than Chuuya's, but he couldn't help but notice how the eyeliner and black eyeshadow at the corner of his eye highlighted his gaze. The hair had also been fixed with a lock blocked behind a ear.

Chuuya snorted because of course they had to make that asshole attractive and stood up with a rush, stretching his numb muscles. Once he turned to Dazai he found himself frozen again.

He had gotten used to how annoyingly attractive Dazai was even in hoodies and baggy clothes. Yeah, now Chuuya had made peace with that. Yet seeing him finally dressed up was an even bigger shock than he had expected. Not that Chuuya had ever imagined such a scene.

"What?" Dazai asked again, this time taking a step closer without stopping to sneer. Chuuya glared at him, but didn't move away.

He wanted, had to, play that game and win. To do that he had to silence all the alarms in his head and forget who was in front of him. Pretend that the hateful asshole dressed in a smart black suit and a white embroidered shirt was an ordinary man and not Dazai.

"What? Can't I look at you?" He tilted his head as he continued to look into his eyes, occasionally passing his gaze down his body. In the end he always looked back at his face though.

"Not if you eat me with your eyes. You already know I don't hang out that way." Dazai chuckled and contradicting himself, he moved closer.

"Me? Eating you?" Chuuya chuckled, raising his head to face him. His body leaned towards the other. "You look like the one who can't help but hang around me. Am I wrong, Osamu?"

The man's jaw clenched, clearly showing how he was gritting his teeth. Chuuya smiled, moving close enough to be practically inches away.

Their eyes locked as Chuuya took a hand out of his pants pockets, grabbing Dazai by the tie. He tugged on it, not enough to make it abrupt, but enough to force Dazai to follow. He then tucked it carefully into the inside of the gilet.

Chuuya smiled at the fiery glare he received, and smiled even more when Dazai jerked him away when he heard someone approaching. If it was someone else, Chuuya would have found him adorable as he blushed and adjusted his tie.

"I'm already so tired! Why does Wei always have to be so late?!" Gin came in with her usual energy, throwing herself dead weight on Chuuya from behind and resting her chin on his shoulder.

"Because he thinks he's a diva even though he's not. That drooling old man." Ryuu appeared shortly after, easily throwing himself into Chuuya's chair.

"Don't talk like that about Wei-sensei. He's a great artist," Odasaku butted in with Tachihara, rubbing the bridge of his nose.

"He may be a great artist, but he's still a weirdo. He's always acting like a creep around Dazai, and let's not even talk about Gin." Akutagawa snorted, looking at his sister. Chuuya also shifted his gaze to her from the corner of his eye as much as possible.

"Excuse me, but who are we talking about?" He asked confused, already putting everyone who that Wei was on his black list. He hated creeps in general, but if someone was towards a friend... well.

"Wei Zhenhai. He's a very popular photographer in China and he occasionally takes shootings as a favor to Mori. We've worked with him a few times in the past and he's kinda... eccentric." Odasaku said with a sigh, then turned around when the warehouse doors opened, revealing a figure. It was an average man in his mid-age, with long white hair tied up in a ponytail, small eyes, and a camera hanging from his neck.

This must be him, Chuuya thought.

Without introductions, the man walked towards the band, ignoring the rest of the staff who did the same. Odasaku cleared his throat, taking a step forward.

"Wèi lǎoshī, thank you for coming. I saw your exhibition in Shanghai last week. I hope your trip went well." He said, earning a big smile from the other man.

Chuuya almost laughed, watching the scene.

He's really kissing his ass.

"Lái lái, for that nonsense. It was like not doing it at all, Oda," he laughed, patting him on the shoulder before walking past him and looking at the band.

Needless to say, the first one he went to was Gin. The girl had moved away from Chuuya, this time standing next to her brother. Not enough to seem intimidated by Wei - Chuuya knew she could kick him if necessary - but more as a form of support.

"Xiǎo Gin, my dear. You kill me every time they don't let me dress you properly," he said as he grabbed her hands, holding them in his. "If you were my muse, you'd be wearing the finest traditional clothes. The most precious."

Gin laughed, letting him do so.

"Thank you, Wei lǎoshī, but I think it would be out of keeping with my style." She said, and she wasn't wrong. Being a natural beauty, Gin would look good in anything and a more conservative look would have made her stand out in a way that was different from her style. However, she still looked great even with the heavy makeup and black skirt suit they had chosen for her. Not to mention the high heels that covered her knees.

"Unfortunately," the man sighed, then moved a little to look at Akutagawa just to sighed again.

"The same goes for you, my dear. These clothes-" he said, pointing to the all-blue suit and the chained combat boots. “-don't do you justice at all.”

Then he headed towards his next target: Tachihara, that had been strangely silent the entire time as he adjusted his gray sleeveless top and black cargo pants. He even played with the silver necklaces or rings he was wearing.

Wei didn’t say anything once he was in front of him. He just looked him over and then ruffled his neatly styled hair until it was messy.
.
“Better,” he said, then moved again. Chuuya could hear one of the staff cursing him as the man walked towards them.

Or rather, towards Dazai.

“Qīn'ài de, hǎojiǔ bú jiàn. Nǐ yīrú jìwǎng de mírén.” Wei said once in front of him, adjusting the gilet.

Chuuya had to search in his memory for the Chinese repertoire his parents had forced him to study through private lessons. Even though it had been years, he wasn't completely rusty yet.

"Wǒ tóngyì. Nín xiānsheng zuìjìn zěnmeyàng? Xīwàng tā yǐjīng cóng bìng zhōng huīfù le." Dazai answered and of course he must be fluent in Chinese. Chuuya wasn't even surprised as he tried to figure out what they were talking about between illnesses and marriages. He would have to brush up on his Chinese someday.

"Oh my." Chuuya was jolted back into reality by Wei's voice who was now looking straight at him. "And who are you exactly?"

"Wei lǎoshī, this is Chuuya Nakahara. Our new sin-" Odasaku intervened, but was quickly silenced by the photographer.

"I know who he is. I was sent a file about it, but my god-" he said, walking over and grabbing Chuuya's hands and holding them tightly in his "that file is not worthy of such beauty."

Chuuya blushed, wanting to get away from those calloused hands.

"Oh this such a shame!" Wei turned to Higuchi who was arranging the stage clothes in the distance.
"We absolutely must take a traditional-themed shot. It would be an affront to art not to do so!"

With that he released Chuuya's hands to turn and walk towards the blonde girl. However, he was intercepted by Odasaku first.

"Master Wei. I don't think we have time for another change today. Besides, Higuchi doesn't have material like that to work with."

The man's face tightened at that and his eyes narrowed, turning again to look at the group who were silently glancing at each other.

"We'll find the time. After all, we have to wait until nightfall to take the last shots. Let's speed things up and we'll be able to fit it in."

“But-"

"I'm sure Mori would love my idea. I can contact him myself if I need to." Wei said, grabbing his phone from his pants pocket. Odasaku sighed, making him put it down.

"Wait-" he looked at the others. "I'll talk to Mori and the staff. I'll see what I can do."

At that review the photographer smiled, clapping his hands together in a loud clap. He then turned back to the band, ready to work.

"Good! There's a lot of work to do today!"

♫

Every time Lippmann had managed to drag him onto one of his sets was proving to be a blessing for Chuuya. The same could be said for the hours he spent watching his parents pose for medical magazines when he was a kid.

Chuuya knew the process, the positions, and the structure of everything, allowing him to do a good job even though it was his first time.

It also helped that the photographer seemed to adore him, pointing his lens at him more times than necessary.

Even so, he was still a beginner compared to the others. He could see it in the way Gin posed that she was used to it or the elegance with which Akutagawa moved. Even Tachihara was a little more daring, feeling confident with the camera.

However, none of them matched Dazai. Much to Chuuya's surprise - for real this time - the man seemed to be in symbiosis with the camera. Wei didn't even have to speak to him for Dazai to do what he wanted.

Chuuya found himself looking at Dazai's solo shots more than he wanted to.

"Chuuya, come here too," Wei called, signaling him to come closer. Chuuya then moved away from Emi who was touching up his makeup to get closer to Dazai.

"We'll take some shots together. After all, Mori explained your situation to me. Do your best!" With that he returned with half his face hidden in the camera.

Chuuya wrinkled his nose at the idea, looking up at Dazai who was holding out a hand to help him up. In a few seconds they were both on top of the container with Wei on the raised platform above them.

An annoying smirk was painted on Dazai's face as he grabbed him by the waist to keep him from falling. Chuuya glared at him.

"You really want to die."

"Come on. We have to make them happy after all." He smiled as he glanced at the camera enough for a shot or two.

Chuuya sighed and closed his eyes. He had to take a breath to be able to forget the presence of the others a few meters below them. He had to do it to allow himself to work well.

This time, focusing only on the man in front of him would be the key to his plan for revenge. Nothing else really mattered.

When he opened his eyes he grabbed him by the tie again, smiling at the look of shock on Dazai's face as he leaned forward at his body's natural response.

"Like this?"

Dazai stared at him with his jaw clenched without looking away. "Is that all you can really do? You're repetitive, Chibi."

"I'll show you repetitive," he growled and with a flick of his wrist he pushed him even closer, placing a knee between his legs, However Wei interrupted them.

"Guys, I appreciate the passion but I also need some more poses. Change it up a bit." They both turned to him. Chuuya annoyed and Dazai smiling. The redhead then huffed and let go of the leash.

"Thanks. Now again" he moved the platform to lower himself just beyond the edge of the container. "Dazai sit on the edge, Chuuya stays standing with your hand in the pockets. Both of you look into the camera."

They kept going like that for a little while, changing angles just a couple of times before Wei could say he was satisfied.

The second round of shots didn't go much differently. They all changed clothes and luckily Chuuya was able to wear something more comfortable. Not to mention the beautiful leather jacket hand painted on the back.

He almost wanted to take it home.

That time they were in the other part of the warehouse decorated with scenic debris and each of them had a prop. Chuuya got the bat.

Unfortunately, he had to take some shots alone with Dazai again, but to his delight, also with Gin who was holding a kunai as a weapon.

Meanwhile, in the distance, Chuuya could see the staff moving frantically, dismantling everything and loading it into the vans.

Chuuya watched curiously, wondering if it was all for that impromptu shoot Wei had requested. After all, the sun hadn't set yet so they couldn't be late for the third.

"Great, we're done for now. See you at the agency later for the last round."

Everyone looked at him in surprise as he put the cap back on the lens, starting to walk away. Dazai was the first to move.

"Wait...at the agency? What do you mean? Odasaku?" He turned to their manager who had just approached.

"Mori requested it for that set Wei-san wanted. We're not doing what was planned anymore, but this. Mori already had everything prepared at the agency" He explained.

"But I really liked that shoot! I had a killer fit!" Gin pouted, handing the fake weapon to one of the staff who was picking them up.

"I know Gin, I'm sorry, but if what Higuchi told me is true I think this will be awesome too. She put a lot of effort into making it happen."

Gin looked away, then out of nowhere walked towards the exit so she could reach their van.

"If she put that much effort then it's fine. It's better to go anyway" She muttered as everyone looked at her in confusion, following her immediately after.

♫

"Fuck. You're tearing my hair out with those things, Denise!" Chuuya blurted out as the girl made his hair do another twist before blocking it with the hair stick.

"Shut up. I was even suppose to be here today. Be grateful." She huffed, then reaching out to grab some hairpins.

Behind them Kunikida looked at them every now and then over the phone, sighing.

As soon as they arrived at the agency and went up to the floor intended for the last shooting, Stray dogs had discovered that the help they had received for the work was none other than Kunikida's team.

The man, together with Higuchi and the rest of the staff, had managed to create the complete set in a few hours, using old props and costumes from years past.

Denise, unfortunately, was part of the package for Chuuya.

As soon as he set foot in the room she dragged him towards her position to get him ready, blocking any protests he might have.
By doing so he found himself far from the others and with only his manager and makeup artist for company.

"I thought you didn't get involved in my work with Stray dogs." Chuuya muttered, looking at Kunikida from the reflection. The man looked up from his phone.

"I don't, but this is still your first appearance in the outside world. It's still my duty to make sure it's perfect," he adjusted his glasses. "And I can't refuse a request from Mori-san."

"You are so composed, Kunikida-kun. You don't look like the same guy who called me in a panic while I was enjoying my day off," Denise giggled, finishing the look with a few swipes of hairspray. "All set! Now clothes!"

"I-I didn't!" Kunikida yelled as his face turned red. Chuuya chuckled, looking at both of them.

"Yeah yeah. Now clothes come on!" She yelled at him too, reaching out and with a sigh the man turned to grab the case hanging behind him.

"Oh trust me, Chuuya. You are going to be amazing in this. I've been wanting to use this for a long time!" Denise smiled as she passed it to Chuuya, inviting him to go change.

The redhead looked at her unconvinced, but hid behind the curtains to change anyway. After all, he knew he couldn't fight back.

When he pulled down the zipper he found himself holding a teal yukata with floral decorations along the bust and wide sleeves. The fabric was smooth and clearly high quality as he wore it over his naked body, enjoying the feel of the fabric against his skin.
He closed it carefully, then tied the sash at his waist so it wouldn't come open, revealing his body. However, no matter how hard he tried, it would slide down and open at his shoulders, leaving them exposed.

"I think it's too big," he said after a few failed attempts to adjust it, hearing Denise huff from outside.

"Let me see," she moved the curtain to enter, surprising Chuuya who blushed at the sudden intrusion.

"Denise! I could have been naked, you know?!" He shouted at her as she moved the fabric of the kimono to her liking, adjusting it.

"Then I would have enjoyed the view. Don't be so prudish," she huffed, taking a step back to admire her work. "And it's not big. It has to be. We want to show some skin, right?"

No? Chuuya wanted to answer.

Instead, turning back to the mirror he wrinkled his nose, trying to lift the yukata again. "Aren't I a little too feminine wearing this?" He asked as he looked at his face and tied-up hair.

"Well that was the point," she giggled at the look Chuuya gave her. Almost as if she had offended him. "Oh don't make that face. Men who have a hint of femininity are attractive. Fans will go crazy for you."

With that, she left Chuuya alone with his thoughts as he looked at himself in the mirror, unable to decipher the feeling he was feeling. It wasn't embarrassment – God, he had done worse than a little bit of exposed skin - it was more fear. Fear that others would see that hidden side of him.

"Chuuya? We have to go." Gin's voice behind the curtain brought him back to reality. She sounded hesitant as if Chuuya had been in there longer than necessary. So he forced himself to take courage and pulled the curtain aside.

"Wow," they both said at the same time. Chuuya had admired how good he looked in the mirror, but Gin? Oh she was surreal. He had never seen her with light makeup and her eyes looked strange without her signature eyeliner. Her hair was pulled back in a chignon, leaving only the front strands framing her face. Red flowers peeked out from between them, matching the kimono decorated with pink and white flowers.

"Oh my god, you are stunning!" she said with a huge smile, leaning closer to get a better look. "And they let you wear eyeliner! I'm so jealous!"
Chuuya chuckled at her pout as he walked past her to the set in the distance. He could see everyone else gathered while in the background a wreath of wisteria adorned the room.

"We thought you were dead. Wei seems eager to get this thing started." Tachihara was the first to notice them, scolding them immediately after.

Unlike the two of them, his style was definitely closer to something rock. For him, Higuchi had chosen a short black kimono decorated on the back with a large silver dragon. It was left open to show a semi-transparent mesh shirt and black obi. As bottom a pair of short hakama that didn't completely cover his legs. The black nails and the studded bracelets added to that rock perception.

"Are you of all people scolding us? I don't know how to take you seriously." Chuuya teased him, while giving him a long look.

"I know" Tachihara sighed "Stop looking at me like that, you pervert!"

"I'm not even doing anything. You say it so often that I'm starting to think you're hoping a little." Chuuya snorted while looking past him to also see Ryuunosuke and Dazai who were talking nearby.

Akutagawa had been chosen for a simple suit while his face was covered in the lower part by a black mask. For the rest a long purple haori covered him up to his back, also covering the gray linen pants that were wide enough to just let the tips of his boots stick out.

Dazai instead was closer to Tachihara's style. The kimono was long and made of a midnight blue silk with a silver embroidered edge with waves. Over it was a haori jacket, modernized with black synthetic leather and blue stripes with square shoulders that further highlighted his already powerful shoulders. The half-open collar allowed Chuuya to see his bare chest. He also wore Hakama underneath, but long and covering boots.

What surprised Chuuya though were the accessories. Not just the silver dragon ear cuff on the one that was exposed by his hair - because yes, Higuchi had done it again - but the colorful strands that peeked out from under his usual dark hair. Blue and silver streaks matched the colors of the clothes, making Chuuya snort at the unfair beauty of that asshole.

"Yeah Tachihara that's my job." He said, leaning on the redhead's shoulder so he could look at Chuuya.

Or rather, study him.

"I didn't know we had another beauty in the band. I'd be so happy if you were here to replace that pompous chihuahua." the brunette said melodramatically, finally reminding Chuuya who he was talking to.

For once though the redhead decided to be the mature one and ignore the obvious provocation, instead walking past them both to look at the actual set.

It was even bigger than it looked from afar with a cascade of flowers - mostly wisteria - that overlooked what was a tub full of water. All lit up by the studio lights.

Odasaku hadn't lied when he said that Higuchi and Kunikida had tried their hardest.

"Wā! Now that's what I was talking about. You are so amazing! All of you!" Wei approached the group in awe, looking at them all.

"For this shot I need you to bring out your most sensual side, but also your saddest." He kept talking and already there confused everyone. "Think of the great vision. The tub represents the abyss you are about to drown in, but also the one you want to save yourself from. The flowers at the top instead are the hope that you are trying to grab with all your strength!" He explained as dramatically as possible, even moving for emphasis.

Chuuya honestly didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

"And what about the sensual part?" Akutagawa intervened.

"Isn't it obvious? What could be more sensual than the inner search for freedom? The moment your body finally frees itself from the water that wants to drag you down!"

No one answered. Everyone was looking at him with different facial expressions - none of them positive - but no one contradicted him for fear that he might continue.

"Good! Let's start with the group photos and then go for the solo ones. Couples at the end."

♫

To say that Chuuya was soaked after just the first few shots was an understatement. Shooting in the water was more uncomfortable than he could imagine and he was starting to feel cold.

Also, his wet yukata was starting to feel heavy as it clung to his body. Once he was done with the solo photos he was taking, he would ask Denise for a hair dryer to dry himself.

"More sad, dear. I need to see the sadness oozing from your body," Wei corrected him, getting a glare. Chuuya was lying in the cold water with his cheek resting on the equally cold edge of the tub, one arm reaching over to touch some wilted flowers on the stone floor.

He still did the best he could until the man was satisfied tho.

"Good! Let's take a little break before we take the last shots. You guys are great!" Wei exclaimed excitedly and Chuuya sighed in relief as everyone walked away. Standing up, his wet clothes weighed him down as two staff members helped him out safely.

Seeing Denise approach with the blanket and hair dryer was almost a mirage as he wrapped himself up in it. Of course they could have also turned up the heat or changed the now cold water.

"Who between Higuchi and Kunikida had the idea for the tub?" He asked as they both walked towards the girl's makeup station and she forced him to sit down.

"Higuchi. Kunikida only wanted flowers, but it wouldn't really make sense for you as a concept" she explained while also passing him a compress to warm his hands "with the tub at least you have more themes to exploit."

"I know, but I'll kill her anyway" he huffed a groan.

"Yes yes, Terminator. Now shut up." So she decreed the end of the conversation, turning on the hair dryer to dry his hair a bit. However, the difference in temperature with his clothes still didn't allow him to enjoy the sensation.

The break lasted a total of fifteen minutes before all five of them returned to the vicinity of the set, posing as a couple for the last photos.

First were Gin and Ryuunosuke with a more tragic style in which she tried to save him from drowning. Wei had described it as "saving a loved one from internal destruction" or something like that.

Then Gin again with Tachihara, this time in something more intimate and intriguing with the girl's body wrapped in his naked and muscular arms. Little to say that looking at the shots afterwards Gin almost burst out laughing at his proud face while he held her.

Chuuya also posed with him in the tub, looking at Tachihara sitting on the edge. Unlike the redhead, he looked straight into the cameras.

The last ones to pose together were obviously Chuuya and Dazai. Wei didn't even let him get out while he was explaining to Dazai how to position himself.

So in a moment Chuuya was straddling Dazai with his knees hitting uncomfortably on the bottom of the tub.
Dazai was instead lying underneath him with his head resting against the ceramic and even allowed himself to smile while Chuuya was sitting on his lap.

"You piece of shit." Chuuya whispered without breaking character and grabbed his face when Wei ordered him, moving closer. Not enough to kiss, but enough to feel his warm breath against his own.

Dazai's hands ended up on his waist and with a sudden movement he moved Chuuya forward to bring him closer. The rubbing made him gasp as he controlled himself not to put a hand over his mouth.

He shot a deadly look at Dazai who didn't seem to be upset in the slightest, on the contrary. The brunette beneath him seemed even more satisfied, making the anger boil inside Chuuya.
Unfortunately for him, however, he also found it exciting. Enough to want to play a move of his own.

Another rubbing between their groins made him shiver, but this time he could enjoy Dazai's surprised expression. He was masking it well, but Chuuya felt from the way he held him that it had had an effect.

Satisfied, he started to do it again, but found himself flipped over and thrown into the water before he could. The cold stung him as he caught his breath, removing his head from under the surface.

Completely soaked, he was about to scream at Dazai when he found himself with the man on top of him spread across his body. His face buried in his bare shoulder and wrapping him in his arms.

Chuuya sighed and closed his eyes, relaxing as he caught his breath. He even raised an arm to wrap around Dazai.

They stayed like that and in silence for a while, until Wei exclaimed more than satisfied that the shooting was over. While everyone applauded, Chuuya and Dazai didn't move.

Chuuya was fine with it. Dazai's heat was warming him and the weight of his body on his was comfortable. However, it was starting to get awkward with the others glancing at him from afar. He made eye contact with Gin in particular.

"You mean getting up soon, idiot?" Chuuya looked down at a completely relaxed Dazai on him with his eyes closed as if he were sleeping. "Oi?"

"Mhh shut up" Dazai mumbled against his skin as he opened one eye to look at him. He smiled before going back to sleep. Chuuya rolled his eyes before pushing him away, ignoring the complaints to finally get out.

Denise was there waiting for him not far away with the same blanket as before and this time with a change of clothes. Chuuya sighed in relief as he was grabbed by the arm and dragged along with her.

As he walked away he turned once to look at Dazai who was getting out of the tub, taking the towel Odasaku was offering him. Dazai wasn't looking at him though and Chuuya didn't turn around again.

Denise also came into the dressing room with him to help him undress and dry himself despite his complaints.

She wasn't the only one tho.

The curtain opened to reveal Gin while Chuuya was in his underwear, making him almost scream at her.

"Gin what the fuck are you doing?! Get out!"

"Oh relax" she rolled her eyes "You're gay and so am I so there's nothing to shout about. Instead...What the fuck happened out there, Chuuya?"

The redhead was shocked for a moment at the confession. Not that he had ever had any doubts about Gin, but hearing him say it so openly was still strange.

" He won't tell me either" Denise huffed as she ran the towel through his hair to remove the excess water.

"Because nothing happened. We were acting. Pretending." Chuuya huffed as he put on some dry underwear.

"Denise. I'll take care of this. Can you leave us alone, please?" Gin turned to the girl who nodded even though she was clearly against it. He took the towel from her and they both watched her go through the curtain.

Denise also didn't fail to notice Dazai's gaze on her as she left.

"Acting? Pretending? I know what I saw in that tub, Chuuya." Gin covered his head with the cloth again, continuing the other's work.

"And what did you see?"

"I don't know. Maybe sexual tension so thick you could cut it with your finger? Chuuya, come on!" Gin huffed in exasperation "did you two fuck?"

"Gin! No we didn't" Chuuya shouted this time, pulling away from her so he could look at her. "We didn't fuck"

"Sure! there's a big difference between fucking and grinding in public during a photoshoot." Chuuya's face fell. "Yeah, I saw that! Everyone did."

He blushed and looked down at his clothes, grabbing them. "He did it first. I just wanted revenge. I would never have done it on purpose in front of everyone else"

"And if you were alone?" Chuuya stopped in his tracks with his sweater in his hand. "Would you have continued if you were alone with him?"

"Even if I was - which I'm not - he's straight. He's only doing this to annoy me because he knows I find him attractive and because someone-" he paused to glance at her "-told him I'm gay."

"First of all, I never explicitly told him you were gay. I just give him a little push," she said before smiling, "so you do find him attractive, huh? I knew you didn't really hate him."

"Oh no, I do hate him. He's cocky, full of himself, annoying and I really want to punch him," he said as he got dressed, "but I'm not blind either. He's attractive...unfortunately."

"Well, this isn't going to lead to anything good." Gin shook her head as she took a step away. Her foot tapped the ground as if she was nervous.

"Oh?" Chuuya looked at her as her head popped out of the collar of his sweater, ruffling his still damp hair.

"If you keep this up - with the games, teasing and all that - it's going to end one of two ways. Either you end up in bed together or you're going to be left heartbroken. Maybe even both."

And Chuuya almost wanted to laugh. Him? Heartbreak? He'd had one in the past - two to be exact - and he knew Dazai wouldn't even come close to that.

The mere idea of ​​even having feelings for him made Chuuya laugh.

"I think you're worrying about nothing, Gin. He and I are not going to end up in bed together and he's just teasing me over bullshit. Seriously." Chuuya chuckled "but if we will do it - which I'm sure we won't - I won't come out heartbroken."

"Chuuya-" Gin hesitated, biting her lower lip as she considered whether to continue "I know we've only known each other for a short time and that we know very little about each other, but you're a good person... too good sometimes. I know you'd give everything to the people you love and I'm just afraid that you might see something in him that maybe isn't there."

He didn't say anything.

"Osamu, he's not a bad person. On the contrary. But sometimes he bites off more than he can chew. Do you understand me? He doesn't know when to stop. I wouldn't want either of you to get hurt."

Chuuya listened to her in silence the whole time, taking his time before answering.

What she had said wasn't untrue, on the contrary. If there had been someone else in Dazai's place, Chuuya might have misunderstood those gestures. See hidden jabs in the words or masked need in the touches.
Maybe someone else could have fooled him. Shin had done it after all. Anyone could have done it if they wanted to, but not Dazai.

Despite the short time they spent together, Chuuya knew Dazai well enough to not be afraid of falling in love with him easily. And if he ever decided to play that card, Chuuya would kick him before he could do it.

But he couldn't say that to Gin seeing her so worried. A genuine tumor. He had to weigh his words.

"Okay, Gin. I'll think about it, okay? Thank you."

"Do you promise?" She asked.

"I promise." He swore.

♫

In the end, he kept his promise. He thought about Gin's words very intensely as he stared at the dark ceiling of his room.

The silence of the night was in contrast to the music of the pub where he was until an hour ago with The flags and Albatross' snoring next to him was keeping him company.

However, Chuuya couldn't sleep and it was certainly not because his room mate stole his bed.

Gin's words were hammering in his brain and - blame it on paranoia or too much drinking - Chuuya found himself unlocking his phone.

The bright light burned his eyes as his gaze remained fixed on one particular contact between his contacts. Chuuya looked at it hesitantly, biting his lower lip.

It had been a long time since he had to call someone at three in the morning for that type of talk... it had been over a year and a half since the last time.

And yet there he was, staring right at Dazai Osamu's contact as if it were made of fire and could burn himself if he touched it.

And as he promised himself with a churning stomach that he wasn't nervous, he clicked the icon.

It rang twice and those two times Chuuya hoped that no one would answer; that Dazai - exhausted from the shooting - was fast asleep. He really hoped so, until...

"Hello?"

Chapter Text

The background music was more annoying than usual as Chuuya remained leaning against the elevator wall, tapping his foot. Unlike the past few times, he would have preferred silence to that incessant jingle.

Taking his phone out of his pocket to check the time was just an excuse to pass the time while the elevator continued to rise.

3.55 a.m. Almost four and Chuuya wanted to laugh.

He should have been in bed long ago, resting from the difficult day he'd had and preparing for an even more difficult one. Instead, he'd traveled halfway across the city in the middle of the night, heading nowhere but to Dazai’s. To an apartment he was starting to frequent far too often for his liking.

Even the doorman at the complex's entrance let him pass without asking questions, presumably having been tipped off by Dazai himself. He did, however, give him a reserved glance at the odd hour, but didn't stop him.

That's how he ended up there, waiting for those metal doors to open onto Dazai's floor. While he waited, Chuuya had time to think. To think about why he was doing this.

He told himself it was for Gin. He'd promised her and Chuuya was a man of honor. Even when the doors opened, he told himself he was doing it only for her. He had to tell himself that even when Dazai opened the door for him.

No one spoke. They looked at each other only for a moment before Dazai let him in with a sigh, walking away toward the living room while Chuuya took off his shoes and jacket.

The apartment was as dark as it had been two nights before when Chuuya had stayed there. And, like that day, the only source of light seemed to be coming from the living room.

There, Dazai sat on one of the sofas, his back to Chuuya as if he weren't even there. Several papers were scattered on the coffee table, illuminated by the warm light of a lamp. Other papers on the floor were hidden from view by the dim light. Chuuya didn't fail to notice the half-empty whiskey bottle and the glass beside it.

He took his time taking in the scene as he approached to sit on the opposite couch. The helmet felt heavy as he rested it on the cushions.

In front of him Dazai sat with his legs open and his body slightly bent overtable,His eyes moved behind his glasses over the various sheets of paper. He seemed intent as he moved them around to find what he was looking for.

For a while, neither of them spoke, leaving the only sound filling the silence to be the music coming from the brunette's tv. It was a quiet song that Chuuya didn't recognize, but it made him close his eyes.

It felt good, and he would have even relaxed if it weren't for the fact that he was there for a reason. Something that was making his mouth dry and his throat so tight he couldn't speak.

“I appreciate the company. I really do, but something tells me you're not here to help me with my insomnia.” Dazai spoke first, but without looking at the other. His eyes remained glued to the papers,grabbing one to bring it closer to his face.

“I honestly didn’t think you’d still be awake.” Chuuya opened one eye to look at him. Then he sighed, propping one leg up on the couch to make himself more comfortable.

“I’m always up..” Once again, Dazai didn't look at him, and silence fell again. This time, it was filled with embarrassment, at least on Chuuya's part. He wanted to slap himself or at least go and wash his face. Anything to chase away that feeling of helplessness that had filled him and was blocking him.

“So?” This time Dazai looked at him from under his glasses. His eyebrows raised, waiting for an answer. “Why are you here?”

Chuuya had to swallow the lump in his throat. “We need to talk.”

Dazai's eyebrows seemed to deepen even more if that was possible and he chuckled. “We need to talk?”

Chuuya didn't answer. He just looked at him, and that was enough to stop Dazai from laughing. The brunette cleared his throat and put the paper he was holding aside, giving the redhead his full attention.

“Okay, tell me then.” He nodded to invite him to continue.

Chuuya, however, didn't respond immediately. They remained silent, at least long enough for the song to end and the next one to begin. This time Chuuya recognized it and almost wanted to laugh.

I’m so tired of playing, playing with his bow and arrow.

“What the fuck happened today?” Chuuya didn’t stammer. He spoke clearly and his tone was firm as he said it. Despite this, Dazai had the courage to look at him as if he didn’t know what Chuuya was talking about. “Stop looking at me like that!”

Dazai chuckled. “Like what?”

“Like you have no idea what I’m talking about.”

“That’s because I don’t. You should be more specific.” Dazai continued to look at him, and even though he wasn’t laughing anymore, the smirk on his face and the slight tilt of his head still irritated Chuuya. It was making him feel stupid.

“Bullshit. Even Gin saw it!” Chuuya nearly shouted in irritation. His leg shook as he stomped on the ground.

Gonna give my heart away.

“And what exactly would she have seen?”

Dazai didn't move. He stood there with that cheeky smile, waiting for Chuuya to say it himself. Dazai wanted to see how Chuuya would overcome his obvious embarrassment and hear those words come out of his mouth.

Because as soon as he did, then it would become true. What Chuya had denied to everyone, even to himself, would become reality. Chuya knew it too, and that's why he didn't answer.

That, however, only made Dazai smile wider while he leaned closer. They were still far apart with the coffee table separating them, but he wanted to move closer just to get a better look at Chuuya's expression at the moment. Vague eyes and red cheeks barely visible in the dim light were all he needed.

“So?” He asked, trying to contain himself this time. His cheeks hurt, but he couldn't help it when Chuuya jumped up from his seat. Dazai had to look up into Chuuya's fiery gaze, but he didn't fail to notice the clenched fists and rigid posture.

So don’t you stop being a man. Just take a little look.

“Fuck off. I shouldn’t have even come here,” Chuuya spat angrily as he grabbed his helmet and walked past it to the door. Dazai’s gaze, however, never left him. “As if anyone could talk to you.”

Despite the muttering, Dazai heard him.

“You did it all. Nobody asked you to come here,” He said seriously. His amused expression gave way to a more tense one.

“Because I wanted to talk to you. To try to improve our situation a little and stop being a burden on the band, but you have to act like a child like always. As if all this was just a game to you!”

There. Dazai couldn't accept that. As fun and intriguing as it was to tease Chuuya, and as much as his reactions were the best to watch, the brunette wouldn't let him question his seriousness about the band.

“It’s a game you started, though,” He said, turning to face him and ready to get up at any moment to follow him. He wasn’t about to let this conversation drop.

“No, you did. Since the first day I arrived.” Chuuya’s figure was almost imperceptible. Only his black silhouette covering the door, yet Dazai knew he had turned around and also what expression he had or how he was clenching his fists.

He didn't know how or why, but he did.

What he didn't know, however, was why he'd always behaved like that towards the redhead. Sure, he was annoying and Dazai couldn't stand him, but it was just a response to a provocation he'd initiated.

Before then, he noticed that Chuuya had been kind to him. For a second during their first meeting, they didn't seem to hate each other. At least until Dazai spoke.

So, yes, Dazai knew he was the one starting their teasing. What he didn’t know was why.

Why did Chuuya have that power over him and why did he found it so funny?
Enough to keep him in the band or risk a media scandal.

It was what he was trying not to think about that night, filling his living room with waste paper, unfinished texts, and glasses of whiskey. Anything to keep his mind away from those unfamiliar thoughts, which he knew were dangerous.

But then, as if on cue, his phone rang in the silence of the house. Dazai was almost ashamed of his excitement at the sound and the hope that someone—Odasaku, Gin, or whoever—would save him from his mind, only to find himself looking at the name of the person he least wanted to talk to at the moment.

Chibi’s calling…

She stared at the screen in silence, bile in his throat and a hint of a migraine. He almost wanted to not answer. Let it ring and pretend he was asleep, but the loneliness was scarier than facing Chuuya.

That's how he found himself there, past four in the morning, being yelled at by the redhead in his own apartment. It was a scenario he never imagined would bring him peace, but Chuuya's voice was so loud and high it drowned out the annoying noises of the cars outside or the persistent ticking of the clock.

Dazai would keep him there all night.

“Stop looking at me like a dead fish! Say something!” Chuuya shouted louder and looked like he was about to grab something and throw it at him, bringing the brunette back to reality.

“What do you want me to say?” He snorted, then turned back to the coffee table. “Apparently we’re both too childish to get along.”

Dazai forced himself not to turn around even when he heard Chuuya's heavy footsteps approaching him with determination. He didn't even look up when his legs were between him and the papers.

He was only forced to pay attention when he was grabbed by the collar of his hoodie and his face pulled up. Chuuya was in front of him, and oh, he was furious. Just looking at his fiery eyes, furrowed brows and clenched fists he was ready to punch him.

And Dazai? He could only watch as the light from the lamp behind Chuuya illuminated him, creating a red crown from his hair. And he blamed it on drunkenness for thinking he was so beautiful.

For this is the beginning
Of forever and ever.

“What do you want to do? Punch me?” Dazai raised an eyebrow without taking his gaze from the redhead. His eyes and facial expression seemed vacant. This made Chuuya tighten his grip.

“What? You don’t think I’ll do it?” He spat angrily. His hands itched.

“Oh no, I’m sure you will.” Dazai smiled, cocking his head when Chuuya actually hit him. It wasn’t a searing pain, but rather a sharp sensation of heat and discomfort, but it was enough to unsettle him.

Dazai, however, continued to smile, ignoring the way Chuuya's hand was gripping him even tighter. In fact, he wanted those hands on him again until he passed out, without being haunted by the silence of his loneliness.

“Fuck.” Chuuya’s grip tightened again and he looked ready to throw another punch, before sighing and lowering his arm. “Hey, asshole. Look at me.”

And blame it on the alcohol or the punch that was unsettling him, but Dazai followed those words like an order. His eyes immediately went on Chuuya, making him dizzy with movement.

It was at the pathetic moan Dazai made that Chuuya sighed, letting the man rest his head against his belly.

They stayed like that for a while, Dazai enjoying the temporary silence of his mind and Chuuya forced to listen to his own screaming. Chuuya's body felt warm and soft thanks to the hoodie he was wearing, and his scent was pleasant, allowing Dazai to fall into a comfortable sleep. Dazai's body, however, felt heavy against Chuuya, who found himself grabbing him before he let go on him, nearly knocking them both over.

“For fuck’s sake.” Chuuya huffed as he held the man’s unconscious body in his arms, then looked around in confusion.

This wasn't how he'd imagined their conversation would go. Not that he'd thought about it for long, but he knew they wouldn't get along. He knew they'd end up arguing because that's all they seemed to be doing, and he'd even thought Dazai would throw him out into the cold night.

He hadn't imagined he'd end up punching the man—even if it didn't seem like it, Chuuya wasn't a violent person if he could help it—and then find him asleep in his arms, a dead weight.

He wanted to talk. To clarify. To find a way for them to get along. Because Chuuya cared about that and didn't want to ruin everything, just as he knew Dazai wanted to, too. It was all pointless, though.

Looking at the half-empty bottle on the table, Chuuya knew that Dazai would wake up a few hours later with a splitting headache, but no memory of their conversation or even Chuuya's presence in his apartment.

And that was fine. Dazai would wake up not knowing why his cheek hurt, and no one would know that Chuuya had caused it. No one would know about his attempt to make things better between them.

No one would have known how Chuuya was looking at the brunette’s sleeping face with a smile on his lips as he gently laid him down on the couch. No one but him.

Give me a reason to love you.

And as he grabbed his helmet, ready to leave, he confessed to himself that he was going to miss that game between them. It hadn't lasted long, but oh, Chuuya was having just as much fun playing as Dazai.

♫

The day of Chuuya's first TV debut was getting closer and closer and the excitement seemed to be looming over everyone except the person himself.

“You don’t even seem to care. You know it’s a big deal, right?” Kunikida’s voice drifted from one side of his head to the other as the sleep deprivation began to take its toll.

He got home at five in the morning and decided not to sleep at all, since he had to show up at the agency for his dance lesson in less than three hours. He simply chugged a lot of coffee and tried his best, and yet he succeeded. His mentor didn't complain too much, and he left that room two hours later, sweaty but satisfied.

It wasn't even the shower afterwards that did him in—although hot water wasn't one of his greatest ideas for fighting sleep—but Kunikida. Sitting in his office listening to him talk about the same things over and over again for hours had led him to bang his head against the desk at one point. For real.

Which was why he now found himself staring at the man in front of him, his cheek pressed against the cold surface and eyes heavy to keep open. He sighed and stretched, trying not to fall asleep.

“I know, okay? I’ve been hearing the same things from you, Odasaku, and Mrs. Yamamoto for days. I know exactly what I have to do, how I have to behave, and what to say.”

Kunikida sighed, adjusting his glasses and clearing his throat.

“I know, but this is important. You can't make mistakes.”

“I won't.”

“And what about Dazai?” Chuuya didn’t look at him. His eyes wandered for a moment.

“We'll do whatever you want in front of the cameras, but off camera…I don't want to do those stupid fake dates anymore. They're pointless.” Chuuya looked resolutely at his manager, who raised an eyebrow.

“They seemed very useful to me, though. Oda thinks the same. You two seem closer in your own way.”

The redhead chuckled. “Our way?”

“Well, yes. No one expects you to become friends, but at least you can stand each other for five minutes without throwing punches. Knowing you, I consider that a good result.”

Chuuya wanted to laugh, to double over until he lost his breath. Oh, if only he knew. Maybe seeing Dazai's swollen face a few hours later would change his mind.

“I don't care. I don't intend to do it anymore.”

“I’m sorry, but I won’t allow that.” Kunikida said firmly, ignoring the long moan that left his client’s mouth.

“Why not?!” He exclaimed, exhausted. He wanted to close his eyes and go to sleep.

“Because, as I told you, they work even if you don't believe it and, as your manager, I have to do what's best for you. Unless you give me a good reason why I should stop you two from seeing each other.”

A momentary silence fell as Kunikida waited for a response and Chuuya tried his best to come up with a plausible one. Of course, he couldn't tell him he was afraid they'd jump on each other sooner or later—whether with fists or not.

So he didn't answer, and Kunikida took that silence as a good reason to end their meeting and let him go eat before band practice. However, before he could leave, he stopped him.

“I'm not doing all this because I enjoy it. I'm just doing what's best for you.”

Chuuya didn't answer. He just opened the door and walked through without saying a word, ready to head to the band's rehearsal room.

He hadn't touched food since the night before, and even the little he'd eaten at the pub between glasses of wine hadn't filled him up that much. The coffees he'd been drinking to stay awake hadn't made it through either. Yet hunger was overshadowing sleep, and the idea of driving to Sigma's for a sandwich seemed worse than death.

He then texted Tachihara, asking him to stop by before arriving at the agency, and then went to the rehearsal room to lie down for a moment. There was still an hour before rehearsal so he hoped no one would be there.

Luckily, that was the case.

The room was empty and silent, as was the entire floor, allowing Chuuya to quickly fall into a deep sleep. His thoughts were silenced in a matter of seconds, only to be awakened again by the sound of the door opening.

He didn't know how long he'd slept— not much, considering his headache had gotten worse—as he listened to the others noisily enter as usual. He didn't open his eyes or even make the slightest gesture to acknowledge their presence, hoping sleep would return to lull his thoughts.

It didn't and the light touches on his shoulder bothered him enough to make him grunt. He didn't speak or try to figure out who was bothering him, but simply grunted.

“Chuuya?” Odasaku spoke so close to him that it was obvious he was the one who had woken him. “Come on. You have to eat before rehearsals.”

He got no response. Just a grunt and Chuuya turning away. Odasaku then sighed and stood up, walking away enough to return to the group.

“Someone’s cranky today,” Tachihara chuckled in the distance, and the approaching footsteps made Chuuya groan again, bringing one of the pillows to his head.

Not that it worked.

“C’mon Chuuya! Wake up!” He found himself being grabbed and shaken forcefully, forced to open his eyes. Immediately, the pillow he was holding over his head hit his friend.

“Go away! Let me sleep!” Once he had pushed Tachihara away, Chuuya sat up. His rumpled clothes, disheveled hair, and bloodshot eyes made Gin chuckle as she watched them from the sofa across the way.

“You look like a mess.” she said, taking a sip of coffee. Chuuya glared at her.

“Didn’t you sleep last night?” Tachihara threw himself next to him as he was busy arranging the hairpins in his hair—a violet one dangling in front of his face—and threw a bag into his lap.

Chuuya looked at it for a few seconds and then sighed, unwrapping his food. He then took a bite of the sandwich without answering.

They all stayed like that for a while. Chuuya ate, Tachihara and Gin checked their phones, occasionally talking to each other, and Odasaku and Akutagawa went back and forth to smoke.

The clock read 12:57 when the door opened again, causing Tachihara to stretch from his uncomfortable position.

“Finally! I was starting to fall asleep—holy shit. What the fuck happened to your face, man?” Everyone turns, even Chuuya, to look.

An obviously tired Dazai stood at the door, closing it behind himself. His shoulders were hunched, but as soon as he turned around, Chuuya saw the result of their little argument.

Because in addition to the tiredness that Dazai's face bore, his swollen right cheekbone with a bluish tinge that was beginning to be visible, was even more evident.

Everyone watched him with bated breath as he silently shuffled across the room, eventually collapsing onto the couch next to Gin. The girl raised an eyebrow, then leaned closer to his face to check on him.

Dazai, who was sitting with his legs spread and his head thrown back, winced when the girl's hands touched the injured spot. Then he sighed, sitting up straighter so he could look at everyone.

“How can I know? I don’t remember anything.” He snorted, running a hand through his messy hair. His gaze met Chuuya’s for a moment before shifting to someone else. “I must have crashed somewhere.”

“Or someone punched you,” Akutagawa chuckled, receiving an elbow from Odasaku.

“I was at home. It would be worrying if I didn’t remember someone coming in and punching me.” Dazai muttered, slapping both cheeks.

“I need a coffee before we start.” With that, he stood up. “Do you want anything?”

And once he'd gotten all the orders, he groaned, dragging himself toward the door and disappearing into the hallway. Everyone stared after him again, snickering.

“I wonder what happened to him,” Akutagawa said, then taking his place next to his sister who instead had her gaze fixed on Chuuya.

“You have nothing to do with it, right?”

The redhead looked up from his lunch to look at her.

“As much as I’d like to punch him, it’s kinda difficult from my apartment.” He lied, sighing when Gin didn’t let go. Sometimes that girl was scary. “If you don’t trust me, you can ask Albatross.”

“He would cover it for you.” She chuckled and waved off the conversation, showing his brother something on her phone. Chuuya, on the other hand, sighed and closed his eyes, allowing himself to rest a little longer.

He didn't realize he'd fallen asleep again until a steaming cup of coffee appeared in front of him, and when he looked up, he found himself face to face with Dazai. Unlike before, he no longer looked exhausted, and his usual annoying expression had returned, though his swollen cheekbones made him look comical.

“Hey, Sleeping Beauty.” He inched closer, almost imperceptibly. “Although coffee doesn’t usually wake princesses.”

He chuckled, his gaze fixed on the redhead to see his reaction. Even just the narrowing of his eyes or the reddening of his cheeks would have been enough.

Instead he got nothing.

Not a glare, an insult, or a sarcastic retort. Nothing. Chuuya simply took the cup from him and turned his attention to his phone.

Dazai stood there for a few seconds, confused. The expression on his face seemed annoyed as he straightened up to his full height, walking around the couch to sit next to Chuuya. Deliberately, practically glued to him.

“Did the cat get your tongue by any chance? Or are you still asleep?” Dazai chuckled, leaning in close enough to force Chuuya to move a little to look at the screen and sip his coffee.

“My tongue is fine, Dazai. Thanks for your concern.” He didn’t even look at him, moving away so as not to have him close to himself. He ignored the gaze on him, sighing as Dazai pulled away.

“Too bad. We still have to hear your voice then,” the brunette muttered, then rising from the sofa and clapping his hands. He didn't have to say anything to let everyone know it was time for rehearsals.

♫

Not responding to Dazai's taunts had proven more difficult than Chuuya had initially thought.

He knew what he was getting into and that the man wouldn’t give up easily, but he didn't expect the burden to be borne to actually increase.

Indeed, he hoped that over the course of the day Dazai would find peace of mind.

Everyone in the band had noticed the change. Chuuya was calmer, rehearsals were going smoothly, and there was definitely more silence.

Odasaku even seemed relaxed. Or at least he would have been if it weren't for Dazai.

Because, as said, the brunette had taken Chuuya's silence as a challenge. A test to see how far he would go.

Chuuya had to admit he'd come closer to letting go more times than he should have, but he'd stuck to his promise. A week had passed, and the two hadn't argued. Not even a small fight.

And the day after would have been Chuuya's official TV debut.

“Have you ever thought about a nickname?” Gin looked up from her bass to the couch where Chuuya was lying.

They'd just finished rehearsals, and everyone else had already left. The only ones left were the two of them and Dazai, who had to leave for a moment.

“Like a pseudonym?” Chuuya tilted his head so he could look at her.

“Yes, a stage name,” she put the bass on the stand. “I don't know, you could go with Ginger Ale.”

She giggled, then got hit by the pillow Chuuya threw at her.

“Shut up,” he chuckled too, sitting down on the couch. That idiot Dazai couldn’t be far away after all.

“So…you really thought about what I said, huh? You seem more relaxed.” She attempted as she stood up to pick up her jacket.

Chuuya swallowed.

“There was nothing to think about. I still don't believe it would have ended the way you say, but I was unprofessional. I wasn't focusing enough on my work because of him.”

Gin nodded, not answering. For a while, neither of them spoke.

“If you have to say something, shoot before that idiot gets here.” Chuuya looked her in the eyes and she giggled as she wrapped her scarf around the neck.

“I was just wondering how you’d handle things tonight. You’ll be alone, after all.”

Chuuya snorted. "Doing what I've been doing these past few days and ignoring his every attempt to tease me. Tomorrow, I'll be doing my part in front of the cameras, unfortunately. That bastard will have a blast, at least."

“Uh-huh, yeah, he probably will. But I feel like he's starting to falter a little, you know?” She giggled again before nodding at Chuuya and leaving him alone in the room.

Finally, he could close his eyes and truly rest. Without the noise of the instruments and the presence of the others, the room was truly silent, perhaps even too quiet. However, it allowed Chuuya to at least get some rest.

Of course, it didn't last long.

“Babe, ready to go home?” Dazai’s annoying voice coming from the door and his smiling face made Chuuya nervous as he stood up, grabbing his backpack.

“Finally. You took your time.” He muttered as he walked past him, heading for the elevator with Dazai hot on his heels.

“Sorry, honey. Just finishing touches before tomorrow.”

“Tsk. Can you stop calling me that?” Chuuya looked at him, stopping his steps in front of the doors.

“Hmm? Why should I, darling?” Dazai stopped too, lowering his torso enough to be at his height.

Their faces were so close they could touch. Chuuya wanted to punch him again.

He didn't.

He just sighed.

“Just stop it,” he said and once the doors opened, stepping inside. He leaned against the wall as he let Dazai select the floor, watching the man’s back.

He hadn't had a chance to look at him properly since that night a few days ago, too busy ignoring him. Now that Dazai wasn't provoking him for a few minutes, Chuuya was able to look at him for a while without feeling annoyed.

He shook his head at the stupid thought. “So what do we do this time? Your place like always?”

"I was thinking of taking you somewhere. Nothing flashy, and there won't be any paparazzi, don't worry." Dazai turned to look at him.

“Everything you do worries me. Where do you intend to go?”

Dazai chuckled and stuck his tongue out at him. “It’s a surprise, of course.”

With that, the doors opened again onto the underground parking garage, and this time Dazai led the way through the cars to his. Parked in the reserved area, it was as beautiful as ever and as comfortable as ever as they cruised through the streets of Tokyo.

Rush hour was over and the official arrival of the cold seasons had already caused the sun to set, turning the city into a sea of lights and neon signs.

Dazai drove for longer than usual, and as the minutes passed, the two left the busy streets behind them to reach a quieter, more peaceful area.

The lights of the bridge over the river and the cool breeze were the first things Chuuya noticed when he got out of the car. Dazai followed him, pulling his jacket tighter around him as he leaned against the hood.

“Sumida? Why are we here?” Chuuya chuckled, moving away enough to watch the water flow from the shore.

“I like it here, especially how quiet it is. I thought you needed something quiet tonight.” Dazai was already looking at him when Chuuya turned around. He shivered as he stood up without saying a word.

“You must be nervous. I've noticed it these past two days.”

“Who wouldn't be? Tomorrow is a day I'll remember for the rest of my life.”

Dazai nodded. “I know. That’s why I brought you here.”

“To drown me?” Chuuya laughed, and Dazai did the same, shaking his head. He patted the car twice, signaling Chuuya to come closer, and for the first time, Chuuya didn’t feel repelled by his words.

The warm hood was a blessing for his butt.

“It would be a funny death to witness, but no. I might save it for next time, though.” He chuckled, looking at him, biting his lip.

Chuuya didn't answer or look up, keeping his gaze fixed on the bridge in the distance.

He knew Dazai was lying and making things up just to tease him. He knew Dazai wasn't serious about going back there and that the only reason he'd brought him in the first place was for their arranged date.

Yet Chuuya's heart continued to do somersaults against his will every time and he told himself that his cheeks came reddish from the cold.

Chuuya coughed. “Umm…that bruise seems better. Does it still hurt?”

For a moment, Dazai seemed flustered by the change of subject. “Hmm? Oh yeah. It hurts a little when I touch it, but that's it. They'll have to cover it up tomorrow anyway, but at least it's gone down.”

“Mhh, better.”

Dazai nodded, also looking toward the river. His hands were in his pockets when a sudden gust of wind blew his hair.

“Though I’m still curious about how I got it,” he chuckled, and Chuuya shivered. “I don’t remember anything about that night at all. Not even the phone call we had. I must have been gone.”

Chuuya gasped, immediately turning to look at him. Dazai did the same, more calmly, smiling at him.

“How-”

“How did I find out? Well, I saw the call in my history, of course.” Chuuya wanted to punch himself. Of course, he would have seen it. “But I really don’t remember anything. I’m curious to know why you called me in the middle of the night.”

“Tsk. I probably drank too much too,” Chuuya muttered, pulling away from the car to take a few steps. The need to move was stronger than the cold of the night.

“Irresponsible for Chibi to drive so much while drunk. Just to see me afterwards.” Dazai chuckled, following him with his gaze.

“I didn’t come to your place.” He turned away, clenching his fists. The humiliation of being discovered coursed through him, making his insides twist.

“But you did. There’s no way I’m going to say no to someone who wants to come visit me. Even if it’s you.”

“Just because you asked doesn’t mean I accepted, though.”

"Could be. I'll just have to ask for the security footage then." Dazai shrugged and stood up too, walking to the car door. He opened it, but didn't get in, continuing to stare at the redhead.

Chuuya turned around. His furious gaze was illuminated by the nearby streetlights, and Dazai smiled for real after days.

There it is…

“Why do you even care?” He said without coming closer, his hands clenched into fists at his sides.

“Because if you went to my house, it means I have a black eye because of you, and I want to know why.” The brunette said, seriously. There was no trace of playfulness left in his tone. “If I did something wrong, you have to tell me.”

Chuuya flinched this time, feeling his cheeks heat up despite the wind. He then looked away from Dazai with a huff as he walked toward the car.

“You were just annoying. Nothing else.” He muttered, opening the door and looking at him from the other side of the car. However, neither of them got in.

“Oh, thank goodness, then. I thought we did something disgusting.” Dazai giggled and Chuuya winced. His chest tightened. “So Chibi was just embarrassed and punched me in the face. How cute.”

“Stop calling me that. You know I don't like it!” He blurted out, then got into the car. Keeping his arms crossed and his gaze fixed straight ahead, he didn't turn to watch Dazai bend down to look at him from outside.

“And I don't like the way you've been acting these days. I don't feel like I'm complaining, though.”

“And how am I acting exactly?” He glared at him.

“Fake.” Dazai spat, and neither of them spoke, just staring at each other. Chuuya hated himself for noticing how broad the man’s shoulders looked now that he was holding onto the roof of the car.

He coughed.

“I don’t know what the hell you’re talking about.”

“You know it very well.”

“Why don’t you enlighten me then?”

Dazai sighed, but said nothing. He simply got into the car and started the engine, but let it idle for a few minutes.

Then he sighed again and put the car in gear, starting to move toward home. The return journey was filled with silent awkwardness, accompanied only by the music on the radio.

As if for fun, one of their songs came on, with Sasaki singing. Dazai wrinkled his nose, turning down the volume.

“I didn’t mean to offend you before.” Dazai glanced at him from the corner of his eye, continuing after observing the confused expression on the redhead’s face. “About the two of us…well, you know.”

“I’m not offended.” Chuuya snapped, not looking at him.

Dazai then snorted, returning his focus to the road. “Talking about being fake.”

And once again Chuuya had to swallow an answer. The rest of the ride passed in complete silence, and by the end, Chuuya had never been so happy to see his home.

When he got out, neither of them said goodbye and Dazai’s car quickly disappeared down the street.

However Chuuya stood there watching it disappear feeling only slightly guilty for letting Dazai return alone to a house he hated.