#just in a different scent that's more suited to hikaru

[hikayunas]

yuna should use her rich girl privileges to spoil hikaru, i think.

taking hikaru out shopping with her, using her father's money to buy expensive perfumes for herself, very nice cologne for hikaru. a variety of different scents, each on their own outside of hikaru's price range, that she'd never be able to buy if she were out shopping by herself or with her parents -- but yuna covers the cost and buys them for her, just so that she has something nice. even makes sure that each of hikaru's new colognes matches up nicely with a perfume that yuna is either buying or already has on her dresser.

(hikaru is carrying all of the shopping bags, of course.)

buying high-end lipstick and 'testing' it with hikaru, later, in her room, with kisses -- lips or arm -- to see if it rubs off or smudges, and doing this with each new shade, just in case one could possibly be faulty.

regularly having hikaru over for the night and washing her hair with the same nice shampoo and conditioner that yuna uses to keep her own hair so sleek -- being especially thorough if hikaru's had a long day or is particularly dirty or sweaty. brushing and combing out any knots or tangles (and just a little bit of affectionately combing her fingers through it) to keep hikaru's hair in as good condition as her own.

having a rich girlfriend has benefits 🐯

[putschki1969]

Wakana SPICE Interview TRANSLATION

Source: https://spice.eplus.jp/articles/261442

Notes: Finally, here’s my translation of Wakana’s SPICE interview. This took forever. *sobs* But it was worth it. It’s a really nice and candid interview, I adore it. Wakana is so precious talking about love and I really like how she is so honest about her struggles when it comes to meeting the expectations of fans. Takeshi Kato is a great interviewer and it’s obvious that both Wakana as well as Hikaru feel very comfortable wiith him. Please keep in mind that my Japanese is by no means perfect, neither is my English. I still tried my best though. Credit me if you use this translation or parts of it elsewhere!!

Wakana talks about Love ~ Enclosed in her first EP is「her real self which she wants to convey」

Wakana has released her first EP 「Aki no Sakura EP」 on November 20. This work is all about showcasing her clear singing voice which has been dubbed “Botanical Voice” as well as depicting a more familiar and real sense of femininity. Wakana is in the midst of preparing for her 『Wakana Winter Special Live 2019 ～Matataki～』which will take place in Osaka and Tokyo starting from December 8. She has taken the time to sit down with me and talk about “LOVE” and all the secret stories behind this release. 

―― Today I would like to hear everything you have got to say about your release「Aki no Sakura EP」. Does it feel like you have been very busy with work lately?

Yes! All I have been doing is make music, in fact, I am working on something new as we speak. I would like to go into more detail ... but all I can say is that it’s amazing *laughs*. So yeah, I will be busy working until the end of the year..

―― Your title song is promoted as “Autumn Sakura Song” where one is thinking about a love that started in the cherry blossom season while strolling around in autumn surrounded by fallen leaves. I think this is a very rare approach. How did you come up with this motif?

When I first got to choose this song I thought that the recurring melody of the 「咲いて咲いて咲い | saite saite saite | blooming blooming blooming」 part was very catchy,  it’s something that stays with you, something you won’t easily forget.  This song already came with lyrics and I didn’t change anything about this particular section - 「秋の桜がもう咲いて咲いて咲いて | aki no sakura ga mou saite saite saite | the Autumn cherry blossoms are already blooming」. The title was also “Aki no Sakura” from the get-go but the world-view presented in the song was quite different in the beginning so I put some finishing touches to the lyrics in order to create a more real atmosphere that would suit me better. 

―― I see, you added bits of your own world-view to it?.

Yes, I was actually talking about this yesterday but the song description “thinking about a love that started in the cherry blossom season while strolling around in autumn surrounded by fallen leaves” kinda suggests that it was a short love that only lasted a few months, doesn’t it? But I will tell you something, that’s not really the case *laughs*. 

――It really does sound like that though *laughs*..

If you read the lyrics carefully, there is a section that says, 「落ち葉を鳴らして笑いあったね | ochiba wo narashite warai atta ne | Among the rustling of the fallen leaves we shared laughter」which implies that those two lovers spent at least one autumn together already, so they have been together for more than a year!

―― They started dating in Spring but their love didn’t end in Autumn.

Yes Yes Yes! Just yesterday I was recording a comment all by myself and I caught myself saying, “it’s about a love that started in Spring and ended in Autumn”. I immediately backpedaled and scolded myself because that’s absolutely not what the song is about. I really had to think hard about how to put it into words *laughs*. 

――People tend to interpret it as a brief summer love, I guess.

When you listen to Aki no Sakura, I think there are many people who immediately think of a contained space where just Autumn Cherry Blossom exist. But I want people to listen closely to the lyrics of the song to get to the truth. I personally believe that the lyrical main character of the song has held their loved one dear to their heart for a very long time. When you see dead leaves flying in the Autumn wind people might be reminded of the cherry blossom season, you are just looking at the scenery and all of a sudden that certain Spring comes to mind and everything else that’s buried within your heart. I think this song is not so much about remembering a specific time or moment,  it’s more about a very memorable person and all the associations you have with them.

―― I personally didn’t see it as a summer fling, I thought it was about a moment or situation that reminds you of a love from a long time ago.

There is definitely a sense of suddenly being overcome with memories, I think many people will see it like that as well.

―― Memories... they do have a habit of hitting us all of a sudden. And to our surrounding it all seems so insignificant. That comes across well in the chorus. In that sense, I think it is quite the sad song. For me it was very refreshing to hear you sing a song like that - a song about someone who is so clearly recalling a past love. 

It certainly was refreshing. As we established earlier, the memories of our main character are being triggered by autumn leaves and cherry blossoms but really, it can be anything that triggers your memories, in my case I associate most things with certain odors and scents. And of course music! Listening to a song that I used to listen to a lot back in the days will bring back all sorts of memories for me. Truly, all these triggers appear in real life.

―― Naturally music is a big trigger for you.

Yes, it’s music. When I listen to “Top of the World” by The Carpenters for example, I am immediately thrown back to my junior high school days. It used to be broadcast on campus in the morning time. On my way to school it would gradually get louder until I reached the school gates where the teachers would stand to greet us. Listening to it reminds me of my mornings in junior high school.

―― Now what about the other songs on the EP,  "Koi wa Itsumo" and  "Orange"? “Orange” was written by you, right? Earlier we talked about your worries regarding the impressions and world-views of the title song, how about the other songs?  It seems like each song has a very different impression? There is lots of variety.

That also applies to the first song “eve”, I really wanted to have lots of different atmospheres in this EP, different from anything I had ever done before. “Koi wa Itsumo” is probably where I outdid myself *laughs*. I want you to not believe your ears when you hear it. I personally think the lyrics are very clear-cut. There is a sense of cuteness and embarrassment, I thought a lot about how to sing those lyrics. Eventually I settled on trying to sing them in a happy manner. I wanted to create a pure and honest atmosphere so I tried to convey a thrilling sense of excitement with my voice.

――You are singing words you have never sung before such as 「独り占めしたいんです | hitori jime shitaindesu | I would like to have you all to myself」or 「困らせたい | komara setai | I want to bother you」.

That’s right. But this is actually all me. I am that sort of person. It's embarrassing to admit but I  wanted to have these parts included in the song. One by one I want to tackle things that people don’t expect of me, I would like to break away from images like, “oh, that doesn’t feel like Wakana” or “this doesn’t sound like Wakana”.  First and foremost I wanted to increase the number of songs that could be enjoyed by everyone so this is why I dared to take it a step further and hit the gas pedal hard.

―― Now please tell us about “Orange”.

"Orange" already came with lyrics. But it was quite difficult to make it into something of my own based on the images that were being conveyed... I have a few friends around the same age as me who I meet regularly about once a month. Recently, we often end up talking about all the hardships, worries and rewarding aspects of work. 

―― Yes, in your age group responsibilities certainly increase.

I personally often felt like I couldn’t really relate to many of the thoughts, troubles and feelings everyone else experienced. All of them are very self-assured, everything about them feels real. I wanted to try and put that into words because I respect that and find it very interesting.  

―― Well, I guess since you are an artist your work and life-style are quite different from that of others with normal 9-to-5 jobs.  

Actually, all of them are working in the industry, they are video creators, photographers, directors and such...One thing they all have in common though, they had something they wanted to do when they were young but for whatever reason it never happened, their dream never became reality. I listened to all their stories and this sense of regret is shared by everyone. And yet, they all power through, they are still living their lives, working hard, doing their best. That is why I wanted to write lyrics dedicated to the people like that - who work so very hard every day even though they are not living their dreams. But I didn’t want to make a big deal out of it, I guess it’s just meant as encouragement or something.

―― By which you mean what exactly?.

Well, at the end of every day you are still the same you and nothing else, no matter how often you go to sleep and wake up again, yesterday’s mistakes and failures will not go away, today’s amount of work won’t change even if you sleep for an entire day, looking at yourself in the mirror, don’t you always see someone who is tired of getting up every morning? It’s all these things I wanted to convey in my song but without making it too sad. 

―― I see.

That’s why the “anata/you” that appears in the final part of “Orange” is supposed to be oneself. You are reborn every day when you go to bed and wake up again. There were times when all you did was being motionless among the waves and scream. If possible you want to return to that moment to embrace yourself in order to provide comfort. But now all of that is in the past, it’s overcome, there is joy to be found at work, I see it when I watch my friends, they all seem to love their job.「あなたの笑顔に会いたい | anata no eigao ni aitai | I want to meet your smile」is about getting up in the morning and seeing your smiling face in the mirror. It's a song that’s meant to make you smile, it shouldn’t make you sad.

―― Now your fifth song “Yuuyake”, you recorded it all in one go, right?

I went into the recording booth together with Ikekubo-san, the guitarist. we did a few takes and eventually decided we would make it slower than it was originally intended. I discussed this with Minnie P., the composer of the song, I told her I wanted to do it a little more slowly. I felt like my voice came out best at a slower tempo, Ikekubo-san and I gave it a few tries before we finally figured out the perfect tempo, it was a lot of fun.

―― I have noticed this before, especially in your live performances, there is a strong sense of realness, everything seems very natural and raw. I thought it was very interesting to see this sort of approach from you.

Well, there is an already existing world-view when it comes to Kalafina, I treasure that a lot, it is very important to me, I do not plan to ever destroy it but right now I am trying to discover new things for myself, I am pursuing the potential of my voice and I think that’s very important.

―― Based on what you just said I think people will want to listen to your songs.  But the main theme for two of your songs, “Koi wa Itsumo” and “Aki no Sakura”, is undoubtedly love, right? 

Yes, that’s right. 

―― I think compared to your Kalafina days the number of life-sized casual songs has increased immensely ever since you became a solo-artist. What exactly does “love” mean to you? I would like to talk about that a little bit.

Well, I think love is “selfishness”. When you fall in love, one is usually hiding in the shadows, thinking “oh, he is so cool and good-looking!” “I wish he would notice me!” or “Oh, I want us to hold hands!!” *laughs*. Or when you are going to a live of your favourite artist, hoping, “please look at me, please smile at me!” All of that is selfishness...you have a lot of demands when you love someone.

――Yes, there is certainly some truth in that. Please smile at me!!! *laughs*

However, love is also about understanding each other and finding a compromise. Compromise is about indulging someone to please them even though you feel like doing something entirely different. 

―― You mentioned that this time the lyrics very much represent your own thoughts and parts of yourself? So what about Wakana's love life? I am not asking about who you are going out with but I would like to know about your philosophy of love.

I wonder if I can even talk about it, I have never done it before. It's very embarrassing *laughs*.

―― Now is a good time to start! *laughs*

Well, I guess I can manage to talk about love to the same extent that I have written about it in my lyrics *laughs*. What I told you before is my personal opinion. Perhaps there are people who only think about love and affection when they fall in love. But in my case, when I fall for someone, I feel a strong sense of greed, I want the person I like to notice me, to turn around and look at me, to pay attention to me.

―― That’s quite understandable.

But even if our feelings turn to true love, even if we love each other very much, there will still be greed within me. I think love should be regarded and treated the same way as a relationship with your good friend. But as a lover I can’t help it, I am apt to become selfish. For example, I end up telling my lover things I would never say to a friend. There are certain things I would never say to my friends because I don’t want my friends to dislike me. I guess when it comes to love, I just stop faking it. Typically I read the air and act accordingly but with my partner I don’t read the air at all.

―― Can you give me an example? The things your friends might not tolerate ...?

Sorry. Well...Imagine your friends want to go and eat Yakitori today, I would never say "meh..I don’t wanna eat Yakitori today”.... Instead I would say, “YAY, let’s go and eat Yakitori!” *laughs*. Maybe I would give it a try and silently suggest,  “anyone feel like Yakiniku instead?"

―― So you fight back a little. 

I fight back a tiny bit. But it still ends up with “let’s go have Yakitori!!” *laughs*

―― And how is it with your partner?.

"No, don’t you want Yakiniku? We will go have Yakiniku!" *laughs* I will just send the restaurant information and be done with it. I kinda like to get into little competitive fights about stuff like that. “This place is better” “No, the other place has way better chicken!” 

―― What kind of man do you find appealing?

I sometimes think about this question but it’s very difficult for me to find an answer. I have favourite actors of course but I only know their TV persona. When it comes to my favourite artists it’s pretty much the same, all I am aware of is their singing voice and stage presence.... But I want to get to know all the personal aspects of that person's life, I want to meet the real human being behind the facade, I want to explore all of that. I wonder if by doing that you gradually fall in love. Well, anyways, I'd like someone in whose presence I can just be myself. Of course I would tolerate and accept everything about him. But in turn I want him to accept everything about me, all my faults and everything ...Ahh,  I'm terribly selfish, let’s stop here *laughs*.

―― You want to show your true self to the person you love.

I agree. When I was younger I spent a lot of time putting on a facade but these days I just wanna be myself, if I have a shitty day I wanna be able to say that I have a shitty day, I don’t want to have to pretend that I am doing fine.

―― Somehow I feel like there is so much realness and humanity in this interview and your new songs.

I'm glad to hear that!

―― I am also curious about your singing style. As a member of Kalafina you were in charge of the soprano parts but now as a solo artist you are pretty much singing all parts, right? I feel like the quality of your voice has changed a bit. Is it because you are trying to find a singing style that’s suitable for you as a solo singer?

Yes, that's right.

―― I always wondered whether you did it on purpose by training or whether it happened naturally.

My previously released album 『Wakana』 was my first proper release as a solo artist, I decided to use the title “Wakana” because for me that album was sort of like my business card, a proper representation of myself so to speak. But truth is, I wanna go through various changes in the future. This year, I got so many opportunities to express myself in various songs and I held lots of live performances.

―― I feel like you have put a lot of thought into being more expressive at your live performances..

Yeah, when I go back and watch all of my live recordings I think it’s crazy how much my singing has changed. I have opened this door of change intentionally, those changes will always correlate with whatever music I am currently creating. I want everyone to look forward to further changes.

―― So there is really a lot of purpose and intention behind your actions.

Yes, I just wanted to convey something more real, I wanted to show everyone the real me. I think what my audience is looking for is probably some sort of insight, a deeper understanding of who I am. I think it would be very rude if I didn’t meet those expectations. Speaking of changes, in my song “Orange” I used a lot of heavy breaths while singing it, initially I was very reluctant to sing it that way but I thought I would give it a try.

―― Why exactly were you reluctant?

Because I was never really required to sing like that. However, once I had realised that I could probably do it, my desire to give it a try became stronger.

―― Right now Takebe-san is your live producer but I feel like you would like to try and produce your lives yourself eventually, do you have the wish to do these things?

I do!

―― I think you are currently working on creating more freedom for yourself so you can do the things you want.

That's right. I want to create a wider scope of action for me. But I think one has to be careful when doing such a thing, after all, I do not want to betray my fans. It was never my intention to disappoint all the people who have certain expectations of me so I tried my best to respond to their wishes. But I am still uncertain how to best meet those expectations and at the same time I don’t want to neglect the things I personally want to do...it’s very difficult and I am constantly thinking about how to do things, how to find a balance. I feel like it will always be like that....

―― I guess that’s something all artists struggle with?

Yes, I think that many popular artists deal with these sorts of anxieties. If a fan listens to a good song of an artist they will immediately have a certain expectation and look forward to the next song. Since I am a singer myself I sometimes struggle listening to the music of other artists because there is a sense of envy. Of course there are also people who may not be able to listen to a new song by their favourite artist right away. The shock would be too great. It will just be "WOW, that's amazing!!!"

―― That you are thinking this way is proof that you are an artist. 

I guess. Right now I am a huge fan of Official HIGE DANdism! When I realised I was hooked, I listened to all of their albums. I am currently in a state where I would be totally shocked and blown away if a new song came out. I would be all over it, “aaaahhh, it’s so amazing!!”

―― So this does happen to you sometimes too, even if the genre is different?

Especially if the genre is different, I think it’s easier for me that way. This way I learn to appreciate and be grateful for the listeners’ expectations. Even if I am in a state of shock, I am trying to listen to the song properly. I am learning a lot this way.

―― By the way, you will be holding a one-man live on December 8  @Umeda Club Quattro (Osaka) and on December 10 @My Navi BLITZ Akasaka (Tokyo).

That's right. I have never held a proper live twice a day with a day and evening performance. It’s very intriguing. I am quite excited and a little nervous.

―― All the worries that come with deciding on the setlist and such?

Yes. I decided to name my live “Matataki | Blink”, I chose this title because I want us all to enjoy this special moment together. Those moments in time, those worldviews which are presented in my releases and lives are completely different so I want everyone to enjoy those blinks of time individually. Rather than focusing on expressing the worldviews of my EP, I want to find an expression that’s unique to a live and that can be enjoyed by everyone. I think it’s a different way of enjoyment. 

―― Live performances are not about creating a perfect reproduction of the studio version, it’s about pursuing the unique and fun aspects of a live.

Yes, I see it that way. I want to hold a live that everyone can enjoy, where people can find happiness. I really want to treasure this live, after all, it’s almost been half a year since my last proper concert. 

―― I am very curious how you will present yourself. I'm really looking forward to it.

It’s said that the twinkling of stars, the light we see right now when we look up is actually millions of years old. I am a romantic at heart so things like that mean a lot to me. Even if the brightness is not visible right now, surely one day it will shine among all the stars. This moment right now. Having said all of this, I hope you enjoy this EP.

―― Now let’s talk about next year. Since this is probably our last time talking this year. What kind of year is 2020 going to be for you?

Next year in 2020 we will have the Tokyo Olympics so I think it will be a very lively year. I want to create memorable music without being rushed, I wanna take my time and of course I want to always keep my listeners in mind. My personal challenge will be to balance selfishness and love. However, instead of demanding the other party to just listen because I took up this challenge, I would like to take the other party’s feelings into account.❇ Staying true to myself I want to face all the struggles that come with making music, I want to create new songs with care. I also want to continue doing lives.

Interview: Takeshi Kato; Photo: Saori Shikiji

❇) The interview is quite ambiguous when it comes to Wakana and the topic of love. It kinda sounds like she could currently have a partner but in this case she could also be referring to the love and selfishness among artists and fans...

[plaidshirtjimkirk]

“Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?” for Chahura if inspiration strikes.

Pairing: ChahuraSeries: Star Trek TOSRating: MSummary: Two things are certain for Christine Chapel: Starfleet is a bureaucracy and Nyota is simply gorgeous. [AO3]

.*Universal Constant*.

Christine wasn’t sure what boggled her mind more: the expanse of the Alpha Quadrant alone, or that Starfleet could secure a runner-up position for most bureaucratic organization this side of Antares. It was a staggering achievement, given the vast amount of fascinating politics (to put it politely) in the proverbial starry seas.

That wasn’t to say she was a woman of anarchist philosophy, though—no; standards and regulations, rules and directives were of sure necessity where the complexities of space exploration were concerned. The calling of these formal social parties in luxurious locations, however…well, that was a different story.

Red Tape Events were how they’d been described by anyone without their backside weighing down a chair in San Francisco. In theory, a starship captain always wanted to receive an invitation to one, because it meant their crew’s valiant efforts were recognized by the top brass—and standing out as an individual from the entire fleet was no minor triumph. On the other hand, there were very few captains who relished the reality of actually attending, and those who did simply weren’t in the know of the grander implications.

Opulent scenery, alluring music, rivers of liquor: entertainment and good times to be had abound, and all under the watchful eye of executives just looking for either mistakes or recruits for operations…or both. Blackmail was a hell of a compelling thing, after all. It was a conundrum, hosting an affair to laud best behavior so the very same honorees could be scrutinized and coerced down different paths because Admiral So-and-So needs a new Title-of-the-Week. Absurd.

In any case, Andorian champagne was similar to its pale ale cousin, just with more effervescence and sparkle as one might imagine. Her half-filled glass cradled by graceful long fingers, Christine glanced around the venue, taking in the view of crew mates outfitted as much to the nines as she, herself, was.

Flowing dresses, stark tuxedos, the best of both worlds captured in vest tops blended down into cascading ruffled skirts, and a whole array of formal attire in between filled the space with color and vibrancy, while individuals from all walks of life cavorted about each other and their ever-observant brazen overlords.

She’d already made her rounds tonight, served her time. The rest was up to the good graces of the captain and first officer, and not to mention one very grumpy Chief Medical Officer who was expertly hiding his annoyance over a tumbler of Saurian brandy on the rocks.

Unable to keep the smile from hinting at the corners of her lips, Christine let her gaze drift through the hazy pearl lighting, slowly taking in the sight of the people she’d grown so close to over the last four years.

There were Hikaru and Pavel in their stylishly coordinated suits, side-by-side as ever and brushing arms while they laughed softly through quiet conversation. And Scotty, who was putting on just as impressive a show as McCoy for someone who would damn definitely rather be holed up in a Jefferies tube than having his ear talked off by Admiral Nogura—the poor man. Naturally, Janice was flawless as ever in a coral dress of twining silk and lace, set off by another extravagant updo.

And then…there was her. And not for the first time, Christine’s heart pounded its ribbed prison a little harder.

As expected, Nyota was surrounded by others, conversing and her face alight with joy while her company chortled in kind. She was in her element, a star in her own right as birth name suggested, and looked downright stunning amid the dewy atmosphere of the hall.

Their eyes met then and one of Nyota’s fell in a slow, flirtatious wink while her lips pursed. Christine exhaled through her nose, and with a small shake of the head, couldn’t fight the grin which pulled outward to her cheeks—or the blush, for that matter.

Two could play this game, of course, so she broke visual contact with a graceful turn and floated toward the open balcony doors, as light as the sash curtains framing them.

~

Moonlight spilled silver over an ivory stone floor—nothing short of storybook glamor, and complete with a faint scent of jasmine permeating the air.

With her elbows braced against the balcony ledge, Christine’s fingers entwined lazily together over the side as she took in the view of a rolling valley that stretched to the glittering horizon. And when the familiar pointed taps of stilettos informed her of approaching companionship, she tried to maintain the hard-to-get facade to no success.

Who could resist the presence of a living, breathing goddess, after all?

The mauve dress danced with elegance about Nyota’s curves as she closed in slowly, her eyes half lidded as Christine straightened her spine and pivoted to receive her.

“Nurse Chapel,” Nyota purred with a regal tilt of her face. She reached out to Christine’s forearm and took gentle hold, the pads of her fingers massaging in small back-and-forth motions. “Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?”

Funny, how this woman could steal the very words from her mouth before they even had a chance at leaving her tongue. Christine covered Nyota’s hand with her own, her digits folding in and coaxing it free; she brought it to her lips. “Lieutenant Uhura,” she replied with the same level of sensuality before bestowing a kiss there, “It takes one to know one, wouldn’t you say?”

A soft chuckle fell from Nyota and her eyes fell closed with an exhale. “What’s with all this flattery?”

“Flattery nothing. You’re stunning, Nyota,” Christine insisted without pulling her attention from her girlfriend’s ravishing features. “I thought for sure you’d choose the tux tonight, but this dress…” A soft hum followed. “It was definitely the right decision.”

“Let’s just say I was dressing to impress someone,” Nyota began matter-of-factly, and after a beat added, “…and we’ll leave it at that.”

“They’re very impressed, I promise.” Before releasing the hand she still held, Christine peered down to admire the intricacy of nail art adorning the tips. “These are so pretty. Did you put them on after I left to meet Leonard? I like him just fine but I still wish we could’ve arrived together.”

“Mm, that’s right.” Nyota lifted her pointer finger in the air and beckoned Christine closer. “And what’s more, let me tell you a secret.”

She leaned forward—felt Nyota stroke a lock of curled hair behind her ear before breath feathered lightly over her sensitive skin with a whisper. “They’re coming off again tonight.”

Blinking, Christine went to pull back and meet her gaze, but not before Nyota placed a small kiss to her cheek. “Just a little FYI, Nurse Chapel,” she declared in an airy, sing-song voice and stepped back. “A little…something to think about, right?”

Exasperation was in the subsequent reply. “Nyota…!”

“If you’ll excuse me now, I have to get back in there to manage those admirals.” With another wink, she purred, “I’ll see you later.”

And like the breeze, she turned to resume her task, nodding gracefully at McCoy passing by her on the way.

“Nyota,” McCoy drawled with a kind smile and tip of his head. He repeated the greeting when he arrived at Christine’s shoulder. “Came out to escape the heat from inside but it’s damn warm here too.”

“I’d say…” Christine exhaled, agreeing for more than one reason. “You have to admit, there’s a lot of hot air in there for a place that’s supposedly air conditioned.”

McCoy chuckled and lifted his glass before indulging. “Amen to that.”

Oh, it was going to be a longer night than expected…

~

It was after much too many hours when they finally, finally, found themselves back in the hotel room. Christine braced herself impatiently at the edge of the bed as Nyota knelt on the mattress behind her and undid the lacy bodice ties of her dress—slowly.

“Nyota,” she uttered in a half whine, half whisper.

“Yes, Christine?”

“Could you…” A moment so she could swallow. “…hurry, please?”

Nyota dropped the ribbons and took hold of Christine’s shoulders, leaning in with mock concern. “I’m sorry, are you in a hurry for something?”

A groan came forth and Christine let her lashes fall.

“Oh, I suppose I should stop being cruel, huh?” With that, Nyota made quick work of unbinding the rest of the material. “I don’t know why everyone hates these parties so much, Chris.”

“Red tape, Nyota.” Christine stood and let the garment fall free, slipping down her body to pool at her feet.

“Yeah? And I love unraveling you from it.”

Drawing a deep inhale, Christine’s eyes widened, and with burning cheeks she turned quickly on her feet to pounce at Nyota. “Oh my gosh, shut up!”

Nyota fell back against the soft bed, her chin tilted up while she laughed heartily. Upon stopping, another huff left her as she looked into Christine’s eyes. “Make me.”

Their lips met once, twice, and remained locked until the necessity of breathing pulled them apart again. They shared those same breaths before diving right back in, hands entwined and hearts beating to the same metronome: a universal constant.

[tres-spades-hotel]

Fake (KBTBB): Chapter 1, Part 1 - New Found Revenge

Summary: Vivian Icard became a widow at 26, after 5 years of a marriage full of love. Keisuke Icard left clues for both Vivian and the man he knows is the only one who can protect his love from the attacks of his own family. Eisuke Ichinomiya receives a package of CD’s, only to be watched in order of the upcoming events. Vivian vows to avenge her husband’s sad death by jealousy after 3 years of suffering, but she will come to face many troubles. And only Eisuke can save her. Together, they take revenge for Keisuke and maybe even find a twisted, passionate love along the way.

Characters: Eisuke Ichinomiya; Keisuke Icard; Vivian Icard/Ichinomiya (MC); Jessica Ichinomiya/Balvient; Mitsunari Baba; Ota Kisaki; Soryu Oh; Mamoru Kishi; Luke Foster; Hikaru Aihara; Shuichi Hishikura.

Note: Another series! It is quite a dark one but I hope you’ll enjoy the concept of it.

Vivian stood at the cemetery, at the gravestone, while silent tears fell from her red eyes. She no longer had the strength to make a sound. After finding his dead body in their shared bed, doctors proclaimed death quickly, however, the reason remains unknown. Keisuke died at only 29 but Vivian was determined to make the murderers pay. Family can be a friend or a foe; they chose to be a foe.

Now, after 3 years, Vivian travelled to London at her dead husband’s request.

“Here is a letter that Mr Keisuke Icard has left for you. He asked that you read it alone and not to tell anyone what is contained.”

“Thank you.” Later that night, Vivian opened the letter and saw beautifully neat handwriting written across the middle of the paper.

‘My dear Vivian. I love you so much. Please don’t forget me. But please don’t grieve either. I am not worth all those beautiful tears. Instead, please try to make me live through yourself and others. In 3 years, 3 months before my death anniversary, please go to London for a holiday. Check into Tres Spades Hotel. Everything will be clear to you then. Please don’t tell anyone where you are going; burn this letter no matter how much I know you want to savour it.’

While her luggage was taken up to the 51 floor, the VIP suites, in the Tres Spades Hotel, Vivian checked in at the desk. She received the key to her suite and, after a polite but brief conversation with the receptionist, turned to head to the elevator, Vivian almost stopped breathing completely.

Women all around screamed and men glared at the man walking into the lobby. Wearing almost all black, except for the pinstriped white shirt, Keisuke’s doppelganger walked with long, quick strides; he ignored everyone around him as he made his way to the elevator. The same direction that Vivian needed to go to. But her legs stopped working and she felt faint. Her heart was beating 100 miles a minute and her brain was sending siren signals, telling her to get away.

She was hurt. She was scared. She finally found a way to get what she had always wanted.

Vivian waited until the man had gone into the elevator and the doors closed. She took a deep breath and headed up. The suite was beautiful. The colour scheme was warm, giving her hope. She sat on the couch and decided to devise a plan. Something that would lock them away forever.

I took the time to get to know the workings of Eisuke Ichinomiya. His company, his friends, his secrets. I bought a new outfit for the IVC: a party filled with the rich and famous, but I knew that there was more to it than just people mingling with each other. As I walked down the lobby stairs, people looked up and many began gossiping. Mainly about the beauty I had. I don’t consider myself someone who is ‘goddess-like’ but my love, Keisuke, thought that I was. He said ‘extravegant suits you, but simple is better’.

The silver open-back dress fitted like a glove when I tried it on. I and one of the staff in the boutique, from the hotel, picked out the perfect bag, shoes, jewellery, hairstyle, and makeup for tonight. I seem to be pulling it off well because people are staring at me. My stomach was a bundle of nerves but I just smiled at walked into the ballroom. I have to keep my eyes out for the CEO.

“Mrs Opal? It is a pleasure to meet you.”

“Oh, my. That is, isn’t it? Vivian Icard. I cannot believe I am seeing you here.” She said.

“Of course. I was intrigued when I first heard about the IVC parties, so I decided to come along.”

“Yes...” Her mind seemed to be elsewhere as she stared at me.

“I think you should come along with me. There is something secret that I have come here for. I can get you an invitation if you would like.” She whispered.

“Really? Please do. But may I ask that you use my birth name instead of my married name?”

Her expression softened, obviously knowing about what happened 3 years ago. Not that it is a surprise to me.

“Don’t worry, dear. I think you will like this.”

I mingle with many people at the party and keep the alcohol consumption to a minimum. Finally, I spotted the man I needed to watch out for. He was with his friends, the ones whom I assumed he had met over 5 years ago.

I saw him heading towards the bar. Moving to see both him and the bartender, I hoped that my small plan would work. The bartender let him through, to the ‘Rabbit’s Hole’. I repeated the code name I had received from Mrs Opal and the bartender let me through as well.

“I can’t believe that worked. Was it meant to?” I mumbled to myself. A few days before the IVC, I ‘accidently’ bumped into Mrs Opal. I knew that she would be involved somehow. Anyway, I keep going and I almost can’t believe my eyes.

A large auction hall. An auctioneer proudly calls out the objects and asks for bids. He controls the crowd and I am almost impressed.

So this is his secret. Good. I can use this.

I hide undercover, after finding a mask and putting it on, and watch.

Next up, in my plan, I stood near the staircase. I heard screams which told me he had arrived. I took my position and waited for the right time. Women ran past me and pushed me into his way. I was close to headbutting him in the chest! But he caught me and held me in his arms.

“Watch where you’re going.” He said. I held my breath at his voice. Even his voice is the same! His glare is something to work on but this could really work.

Eisuke Ichinomya let me go and pushed past me. But my heart was racing so fast. Not because of him. His voice got my mind thinking about Keisuke. He would never say that to me, but I try to imagine it. I softly giggle at the fantasy, which I know will never come true.

My heels clicked as I walked through the hall. Mr Kenzaki, the manager, is taking me to see the man himself.

“Hello, Mr Kenzaki.” I bowed my head.

“Are you the manager?” I asked.

“Yes, I am. How may I help you?” His politeness reminding me of Keisuke’s grandfather.

“I actually would like to set up a... meeting, I guess you could say, with the owner of this hotel. Mr Ichinomiya?”

“Of course I can do that, but may I ask what it is for?”

“I would just like to commend him for his hard work.”

We arrive at a large set of doors and Mr Kenzaki knocks on the door. After a quick ‘come in’, he opens the door and lets me through. I nodded my thanks and the manager left.

I walked into the penthouse lounge, holding tightly a medium sized, gold photo frame to my chest.

He and 7 others looked up at me. Though I was slightly intimidated, I stood at the front of the lounge. I took a deep breath, knowing that there is no going back.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Eisuke Ichinomiya,” I said, bowing my head.

“Mm. Kenzaki said you wanted to ‘commend me for my hard work’,” He informed while taking a sip of his coffee.

“Well, it is more like a deal really,” I said. He looked at me and leant back on the couch; he didn’t say anything as he silently stood up and stood in front of me.

“Go on,” He smirked. I looked him straight in the eye.

“I want you to be my husband.”

“What?” His confusion almost makes me giggle but that wouldn’t be appropriate.

“Wow.”

“People can go to extremes to get to you Eisuke.”

Everyone in the room was visibly confused but they quickly shut up when I turn the photo frame around. Inside the glass, was a picture of my husband, Keisuke Icard. Eisuke looked at the photo and didn’t speak. They both have the same looks, the same voice, but different personalities.

“What for?” He asked.

“Long story short, I want to take revenge for my dead husband. His family killed him. I mean, if you are up to it.” I said.

“Revenge, huh. And what do I get from this?” He smiled mischievously.

“Well, my husband’s family is rich if that’s what you want. But I’m willing to give anything for this.” I said; I know that it’s dangerous to say something like that. But it’s the only thing I can do.

“I’ll decide that later. So you want me to be your husband?”

“No!” Another voice shouted from the doors. A thin woman walked into the room with an angry expression on her face. She wore stiletto heels and a small dress which revealed more than it should.

“He’s my husband so you can’t him!” She snapped, and the woman walked up to me and pushed me back. Keisuke’s photo frame fell out of my hands and I almost hit the floor. Almost. But I didn’t and neither did Keisuke.

A young man, with blonde hair, sitting on a single chair to the side, caught my photo frame. Eisuke Ichinomiya caught me and pulled me to his body. He was practically embracing me; his left arm was around my waist while his right hand was on my forearm. His scent was strangely comforting to me because I felt drained due to the adrenaline.

“Eisuke! Why-” The woman’s confusion was evident. 

“Shut up.” He glared at her and she kept quiet.

“Remember one thing, Jessica. We married for business. So do not interfere with my personal matters.”

“P-personal matters!?”

He turned to me and lifted my chin up.

“I’ll do it. Provided that you have a plan of course. And you’ll need to tell me everything.”

“Of course. Thank you.”