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[alwaysandindent-blog]

Kiss and Make Up

One shot inspired by the song Kiss and Make Up by Dua Lip & BLACKPINK, and some of the characters from Ikemen Sengoku.

“I hate him,” Riley moaned, chugging down another bottle of Corona. “He’s such a fucking asshole. I can’t believe he would be all up on another girl like that in front of me.”

Misao smiled sympathetically and passed her a shot of vodka. Clinking their shot glasses together the girls took down the shot. Misao made a face, straight alcohol was not her style, but Riley was in need of her company tonight.

“It’s the same shit every time,” Riley went on, clearly tipsy from all the alcohol they have consumed, “He says sweet things to me and makes me feel like the most special person in the world, but then once the relationship starts getting serious, he gets scared of commitment and he backs away by flirting with another girl in front of me.” Riley poured herself another shot of vodka. “I mean, why do I even bother with him? Why the hell is he so scared of commitment and why the fuck do I care about him so much?”

“It’s because you love him.” Misao said gently, passing her a cup of water she encouraged Riley to drink some.

Riley pushed the water glass away, “Well, fuck him” she grumbled, sitting up from her slouched position, “Let’s go out tonight. If he wants to play around, I can too.”

Misao shook her head, “Are you sure that’s a good idea?”

“If you don’t come with me, I’m going by myself,” Riley slurred, standing up and holding onto the dining table for support. Goddamn the alcohol was hitting her.

Misao sighed, “Fine, I’ll come.” Sending a quick text to her boyfriend to let him know her plans, she grabbed Riley by the waist before she fell over, “Come on, you need to get dressed and sobered up slightly before we even go out. Drink some of the water and I’ll do your makeup.”

I’m scared I’m falling, losing all, losing all my control And I’m tired of talking Feel myself saying the same old things But this love’s important Don’t wanna lose, don’t wanna lose you this way

“Isn’t this great?!” Riley yelled over the loud, booming music to Misao. She pulled Misao onto the dance floor. The dim lights of the club, the beat of the music with the mix of alcohol made Riley feel better.

Misao giggled, it was fun to get out for the night, to just dance the night away with no worries on their minds. She was happier Riley was feeling a little better. Glancing around the club, Misao’s eyes stopped at a familiar looking body that was all the way across the room.

Riley glanced at Misao, even in her intoxicated state she was able to follow Misao’s vision across the room. Her eyes narrowed at the familiar silhouette that she had come to know. Please don’t let it be him, she silently begged.

As if he read her mind, he turned around. It was him! Her heart sank; she didn’t need a reminder of why she was out here this night.

In the dim light, she noticed his friends around him. He glanced around the club, eyes widen with surprise when they found her face. Then ever so calmly, the surprise went away as he took a sip of his drink. Lips curled into a smirk as he held up his glass almost as to toast her.

How dare he? Her blood boiled. It was as if he was intentionally trying to make her angry. “Don’t,” Misao whispered, grabbing Riley by the arm. “Don’t go to him.”

Riley took a deep breath, Misao was right. She wouldn’t go to him. She would make him come to her. If he wanted to play this game, she would play it better.

---

Shingen gazed across the room, eyes landing on Riley. Fancy seeing her here, he mused to himself, guilt in him seeping out. He felt bad. Riley is a great girl. One who was able to laugh with him and one that would hold him whenever things went bad. He fell for her, he knew that. But he was afraid of commiting to someone. That just wasn’t his taste.

He saw the anger in her eyes. He couldn’t blame her. After all, he was the one who strategically planned for her to find another female in his arms. Shingen raised his glass up to her and gave her a smirk. She would come back to him, she always did.

Taking another swing of his drink, he turned around and found his friend, Yukimura chatting with a girl beside him. Shingen chuckled, he had no interest in being out here tonight, but it wouldn’t hurt for him to be a wingman for his friend, right?

Turning his attention back to the dance floor, he felt a small panic in his heart. Where did she go? She was just here a min--

His eyes narrowed, a hiss escaping his lips as he brought his drink back to his mouth. There she was, grinding herself against a stranger, paying no attention to him. How dare that guy and his hands moving around her body. She was laughing, pulling him closer. He took a gulp of his drink and stared, unable to turn his attention away from what he was seeing. How dare she allow some stranger all over her like that.

---

“Dance with me,” Riley giggled, pulling one of Masamune’s friend’s onto the dance floor. Misao’s boyfriend arrived just on time into the club along with some of his friends. Riley was full of liquid courage. She wouldn’t be the one that would crawl back to Shingen, he would have to come back to her.

Misao sighed, watching her best friend pull Hideyoshi onto the floor. Luckily, Hideyoshi wasn’t someone who would be attached to a person or looking for a romantic relationship. Misao knew what Riley was doing, and being unable to stop her, she figured Masamune’s friends would be a better distraction than a stranger from the club.

Masamune kissed Misao on the forehead, sensing her distress, “Don’t worry kitten. Everything’s going to be alright.”

Misao nodded, relaxing into Masamune’s arms. He was right. Misao wouldn’t be able to control what Riley decided to do with herself but she could be here to help out if Riley needed her.

“So…” Masamune cheekily said, pulling Misao close, “Do you come here often? Can I buy you a drink?”

That got a laugh out of Misao, “That’s so corny! And cheesy!” she cringed in laughter. “But yes, I do want a drink.”

Masamune smiled and shrugged, “Come’on, I’ll go get you a drink.” He intertwined his hand with hers, “Don’t worry too much about Riley, she’s going to be fine.” he reassured, leading Misao over to the bar.

---

Riley moved to the beat of the music, holding onto Hideyoshi who moved along with her. “You’re a good dancer,” she complimented him, pulling his arms around her.

“Thank you,” he responded, “I’m glad I could help assist in your revenge plan.”

“Oh god,” Riley groaned, “You know about this?” She was still under the liquid courage influence without a care in the world.

Hideyoshi laughed, “Masamune might’ve mentioned something,” he leaned in closer, “For what it’s worth, I think you’ll have him crawling back in no time.” He nodded towards Shingen, “Dude looks like he’s about to burn the club down.”

Riley glanced over, her heart skipped a beat and danced with excitement as she saw the anger in Shingen’s eyes. Locking eyes with Shingen, she smirked back at him, then pulled Hideyoshi in closer, bringing his hands around her body.

Closing her eyes, Riley let herself move to the music, pulling Hideyoshi closer to her. Savoring the moment of the look in Shingen’s eyes, she turned herself away allowing the view of Shingen to leave her sight but positioning herself carefully so that she would stay in his sight. Karma is a bitch, she smirked to herself knowing that Shingen was now watching her every move.

You’re still not able to leave. What are you doing? Someday it’ll be over, I know when to leave.

---

Downing the alcohol that was in his hand, his brown eyes narrowed with jealousy as he watched Riley. It was unreasonable for him to be jealous, yet the rage he felt in his heart was something he never felt before. Previous girls in the past would pull this game with him, trying to make him jealous, yet he was always able to walk away. Why couldn’t he bring himself to do it now?

Ordering another drink, he glanced over to his friend. It seemed like Yukimura was comfortable with whatever he was doing. Good. Shingen had bigger things to worry about.

He went over to the bar and ordered another drink, settling himself down on the stool. Eyes never leaving Riley, he couldn’t pinpoint the feeling that he felt. What was this feeling? Was it rage? Jealousy? Anger? Insecurity? Logically, he knew he shouldn’t feel anything. After all, he was the one that started it. He was the one who would always be up on another girl whenever he felt commitment. His head shuddered, the thought of commitment was scary, yet his heart demanded that this feeling was even worse. Would he be able to stand aside and watch Riley with another man?

He would be fine, right? His head demanded. He was Shingen Takeda, goddammit.There wasn’t any girl in the world who wouldn’t fall for his charm. With or without Riley, he would be okay. Right? Looking for a distraction he glanced at the girl who was sitting next to him. Quickly assessing her, he moved closer, “Hey beautiful, can I buy you a drink?” he asked, with the charming smile of his bright on his face.

She flushed, a giggle coming out of her mouth, “Of course,” she replied coyly. Shingen forced a smile on his face. He would be okay, right? So why was he still thinking of Riley? Mindlessly ordering a drink for the girl and handing it to her, the corner of his eye still looked for Riley.

There she was, still on the dance floor with that stranger, laughing at his jokes and holding a drink in her hand. He could see her smile, the one that she was now giving to a stranger. He could see her hands, all over another man’s body the way they should be on his. Shingen’s thoughts were muddled. He’s going to be fine without her. After all, he was the one who stepped away. He’d be fine. Right?

“So do you want to dance?” The voice next to him broke him out of his trance.

“Huh,” Shingen turned over to look at this girl, then flashing her his award winning colgate smile, he held his hand out to her, “It would be my pleasure.”

That was what he needed. Right? A distraction. He pulled the girl over to the dance floor, suddenly aware that he never got her name, but also realizing that he didn’t care. “So beautiful, do you come here often?” he asked lamely trying to make small talk. Not his best line, but with his charm, it still worked.

“For you, I would,” she giggled, batting her eyelashes. Shingen force a smile out for her but cringed inside suddenly hypersensitive to everything that was going on around him. When did a female’s giggle become the most annoying sound to him? Were all girls this annoying when they flirted? What was up with the eyelash batting? Didn’t that only happen in cartoons? Riley was never like this.

Still, determined to forget about her, Shingen pulled his dance partner closer to him. She giggled again, grinding herself against him obviously feeling herself to the music. Shingen took a deep breath. He would be fine, right? So why was he still thinking of Riley?

He glanced around the dance floor again, this time locking eyes with Riley. He watched her move against the stranger, immediately wishing that was her body against his and not some random skanky chick he picked off the bar.

Shingen watched as the stranger leaned down and whispered something into Riley’s ear. It made his blood boil. No other man should be in such close proximity to Riley. No other man should be the one that puts a smile on her face. But he took another deep breath.

He’s fine without her. Right?

Riley looked up, and locked eyes with Shingen. She must notice that he had a girl on him now. What would her reaction be? Everything seemed to move in slow motion for Shingen. He felt himself force a smile towards Riley, almost as if to tell her I’m over you. But the smile felt fake. His heart was burning with rage and jealousy. Riley didn’t seem to have a reaction to him. Instead she smirked at Shingen and rolled her eyes. Reaching up, she wrapped her arms around the stranger’s neck. Pulling him down, her lips met his.

Shingen felt like his heart stopped. He stood in place, unable to move and unable to look away from what he saw.

What. The. Actual. Fuck.

The music played loudly, but Shingen couldn’t hear it. Bodies bumped against his, yet there was nothing he could feel. It didn’t matter that he has another chick up against him. There was nothing that would’ve prepared himself for the sight in front of him. It was almost as if time stopped except for her. The only thing he saw was her. Blinking his eyes a few times, he stared.

Sure enough, Riley’s arms were still enclosed around the stranger, lips still locked with the stranger. The club started to feel tight. Shingen started to feel claustrophobic, it seemed like everything was spinning and coming down on him. The air felt thicker. It was getting hard to breathe. The people felt closer, but Riley… she seemed too far out of reach.

What was Riley doing? Anger surged through his veins. How dare she make out with another man, in front of him nonetheless. Shingen was numb with anger, and burning with jealousy. It couldn’t be true. As the music played, and a stranger grinded herself against him, and the alcohol pounding against his head, none of it mattered. All he saw was Riley. His Riley with another man.

Through the darkness in the club he finally had to admit defeat to himself. No, he would not be okay.

Not without her.

That is not what we need You alone is enough So tell me can we work this whole thing out?

---

“So how many drinks have you had?” Hideyoshi asked, passing another glass over to Riley.

Riley gladly took the drink and a long sip, “Too many to keep count!” she grinned, clearly enjoying herself. She glances over quickly at Shingen, he was buying a drink for another female at the bar. Her eyes narrowed at the sight.

Hideyoshi chuckled, “You know that he’s only doing that because he sees you with another guy right now, right?”

Riley found a lot of comfort in those words. She wanted the impact to hit Shingen as hard as they could.

“You want to know what would make him angrier?” Hideyoshi’s eyes light up mischievously, “Kiss me.”

Riley glanced at Hideyoshi, a smirk curling up the side of her lips, “You won’t mind that?”

“Nah. I’m finding a lot of enjoyment in this game.”

Riley laughed, “You’re becoming one of the best wingman that I know.”

Pulling her back onto the dance floor, he leaned in and whispered into her ear, “Wait for the right moment. I’m setting the mood right now. Judging by his body language, he doesn’t like the fact that I’m super close to you. Wait for the perfect moment to kiss me and he’s going to lose it.”

Riley laughed, pulling Hideyoshi close to her, stealing a quick glance at Shingen. Shingen has brought a random girl onto the dance floor but his gaze stayed fixated on Riley.

Both of them locked eyes. Shingen smiled at Riley, but his smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. If he wanted to play this game, Riley would just have to top him. Waiting for the moment, Riley smirked at Shingen and rolled her eyes. A silent fuck you went through her head as she pulled Hideyoshi closer and met her lips with his.

Hideyoshi kissed her back, holding onto that pose for a few seconds before pulling away. He took a quick glance at Shingen before smiling widely, “I told you it would get to him. He’s got it bad for you. Doesn’t even acknowledge the girl who’s dancing on him.”

Staring back to the dance floor, Shingen stood in place still watching Riley and Hideyoshi. Riley could almost see the anger coming out from his body. She giggled in satisfaction knowing that he felt something from her little show.

It seemed like Shingen stared at them forever, before walking off the dance floor without a word to his dance partner. Her eyes followed him, noting that he was back at the bar ordering another drink.

Hideyoshi led Riley back to the booth where their other friends were hanging out. “So how’s it going?” Masamune asked, casually sipping his drink.

“Well, her ex is fuming pissed right now,” Hideyoshi chuckled, “It’s only a matter of time before he comes crawling back to her.”

“Mess up your hair and smudge some more of your makeup,” Misao suggested, “Then go back to the dance floor and make it look like you were freshly fucked. That would do some real damage to him.”

“That’s a good idea,” Mitsuhide said, reaching over and tussling with Riley’s hair, “You should also walk out with another guy. That would mess up with him even more.”

Hideyoshi grinned, “What, I’m not good enough?” He joked, then slapped Mitsuhide on the shoulder, “I’m tagging you in.”

“You’ll owe me for this,” Mitsuhide said, downing the last drops of his drink.

“Drinks on me this round,” Riley announced, grabbing a bartender and ordering a round of shots for everyone, “Thank you guys for the help,” she gushed, holding her shot glass up, “To bad decisions and hangovers!”

“Cheers!” Everyone took the shot. Misao pushed Mitsuhide over to Riley, “Now go out and piss Shingen off!”

Touch me like you touch nobody Put your hands all up on me I’m tired of hearing “sorry” Kiss and make, kiss, kiss and make up

---

“What happened to you?” Yukimura asked glancing at a pissed off looking Shingen. Shingen brushed Yukimura’s hand off his shoulder and downed the rest of his whiskey.

“Nothing,” Shingen grumbled, his eyes looking as if they were ready to kill. Yukimura scanned the club and Riley moving against a guy. Suddenly everything made sense.

“Just go talk to her,” Yukimura grumbled, rolling his eyes. “What are you so afraid of? You’re clearly in love with her even though you want to push her away. I’ll never understand why you do that.”

Shingen glanced up again, eyes narrowing at the sight of Riley with a different guy on the dance floor. His heart tightened with a fire he couldn’t pinpoint. Seeing Riley with not one, but two different guys on the same night was not something he signed up for when he decided that he would come out with Yukimura tonight.

“You’ve been playing her along for way too long. She deserves something better for standing next to you all this time.” Yukimura lightly said, “Either you’re going to go to her, or leave. Leave and walk away and never look back. Don’t drag her feelings on, it’s not fair for her.”

Yukimura sighed, placing another drink in Shingen’s hand, “Go figure your shit out. Now.” He looked at Shingen whose eye never left Riley, “Or you’re gonna lose her forever.”

So how about we leave this party? Cause all I want is you up on me I’m tired of hearing “sorry”

Shingen stared at Riley as she moved up against another man. He sighed. Deep down, he knew that she would eventually be tired of his games and tired of him not committing. It never affected him as much as it did now. He couldn’t stand the sight in front of him; the sight of another man making his girl smile so brightly, the sight of another man holding his girl far too close for his liking. He hated it.

“You’re gonna lose her forever.”

Yukimura’s voice echoed in Shingen’s head as he took another shot. He didn’t want that. Shingen grew numb as he started coming to a realization: he was more scared to lose her then he was scared of commitment.

Downing another shot and gathering up his courage along with his anger, he made his way over to the dance floor. He made up his mind, he was going to get Riley back. Snaking his way through the dance floor, he found himself finally standing next to Riley who still hadn’t realized he was in such close proximity.

Moving his way behind her, Shingen’s smooth voice cut between the Riley and the man she was dancing with, “Well princess, it seems like I left you alone for too long, but I’m here now.” He reached over and put his arm around Riley’s shoulder.

Riley’s eyes narrowed at him, Shingen felt his heart tug. Of course she would be mad at him, that was something he expected. Luckily for him, Riley moved away from the other guy and went into Shingen’s arms. The other guy seemed to give Riley a knowing smirk before winking at her and walking away.

Shingen’s arms around her tightened, pulling her close to him and inhaling her scent. Even with the different bodies moving around them, the smell of alcohol, and the loud music in the air- having her in his arms made a world of a difference to him.

“What do you want?” Riley demanded, her eyes glossing over him. She definitely had too much alcohol in her system.  Shingen chuckled, still finding her extremely adorable in her intoxicated angry state.

He leaned in close to her ear, “You,” he whispered, his hot breath moved across her skin causing her to shiver, “I want you.”

Do it just like the thrill of the first time you met me So tell me can we work this whole thing out? Work this whole thing out

—-

“You had me,” Riley stated neutrally, keeping her stance. She wouldn’t just let him waltz right back into her life like that, not after all the shit that he put her though.

Shingen was quiet, still gripping onto her tightly on the dance floor. It didn’t matter that there were other people around, she was the only one that mattered to him.

“Well?” Riley demanded, “If this is all you got, then we’re done.” She reached out and pushed his chest, trying to gather some space between them, but Shingen grabbed her wrist and pulled her closer.

“Stop,” he commanded, his dominating voice sent goosebumps down Riley’s arms. He pulled her in, “I… I don’t want you to leave.” He breathed out against her ear.

Riley stared at Shingen, quietly assessing his facial features, “Fine, let’s go outside and talk.” She let him lead her through the crowd, making way out of the club and breathing in the fresh air.

Without the banging music, people around, and the alcohol, Riley turned her attention onto Shingen. She kept her facial expression neutral with her arms folded across her chest. She wanted nothing more than to run right into his arms, to seek the comfort he had always given her, but she was tired of it. Tired of the game, tired of chasing, and tired of having him push her away.

Shingen sighed and put his hands into his pocket, “Look…” his voice trailed off, finding difficulty in words to describe his feelings, “I want to be with you.” He finally said.

Riley rolled her eyes, “And what makes this time different than all the other times? All those times you tell me that I’m special and I’m the only one, but when push comes to shove you don’t seem to have a problem with leaving me for another girl.” Her voice was full of venom with tears brimming around her eyes, “I’m tired, Shingen. I really am. I don’t want to play this stupid game of yours anymore. If this is all you have then that’s it. Have a good fucking life because I’m fucking done with whatever this shit is. I deserve someone who’s going to give me the fucking world.” She turned around on her heels, ready to walk away.

“Wait,” Shingen said in a panic. Riley stopped in her track, but did not turn to face him. Shingen’s heart pounded, he needed to tell her how much she meant to him before she walked away. This would be the only chance he got.

“Look,” Shingen groaned, ruffling his hair, “I’m not good at this. I’m not good at making commitments. They scare me…” He walked closed to Riley, reaching for her arm and turning her around to face him, “But… the thought of losing you? That scares me more.” He took a step closer to her, “I know I don’t deserve you. After all the shit I put you though, I know. I know that without me, you’d be fine… But I can’t let you go. I want to be with you, so please let me.” His brown eyes gazed into hers, searching for forgiveness.

Riley’s heart softened at his words but her eyes narrowed, “And I’m supposed to forgive you just like that?” Snapping her fingers to match her words, she was surprised her tone still had a feisty bite to it. They both stared at each other in silence for a while. Riley sighed and pulled herself away from Shingen.

“Look,” she finally stated, taking in a deep breath and fanning herself out. “I don’t know anymore. I can’t trust you. You didn’t do it to me once, it was quite a few times where I just happen to find you kissing another woman.” She sighed, “You meant the world to me… I would’ve done anything for you.” Her voice was quiet, “And it hurt me the most knowing that I meant absolutely nothing to you.” Choking back her tears, she stared at him with watery eyes, “I’m sick of it, Shingen. I really am. I don’t think I can do this again.”

Shingen’s heart broke, watching Riley come undone in front of him. He ran his fingers through his hair, “I’m not asking you to forgive me right now.” He let out a small sigh, “I’m not hoping to be forgiven tonight, but I’m asking you to give me one last chance.” Shingen reached out for Riley’s hands and pulled her close to him, “But I mean it this time. I’m yours and only yours” He hesitantly pulled her into a hug, “I was scared. I was scared of committing to someone, so when it came to it I pushed you away.” He gently tilted her chin up so that she was facing him. Gazing into her dark brown watery eyes, he silently promised that he would never make her feel this way ever again. “But, I’m ready to change,” he said to her, “I don’t want to push you away anymore, and I don’t want to run in circles. I want you, I want to be with you, and I want the whole world to know it.”

Shingen planted a soft kiss on her forehead, “I know my apology doesn’t mean anything to you right now, but please, just give me one last chance to prove it. And if I don’t make it up to you… Then you can… walk away.” His voice cracked as he said the last two words, knowing very well that it could be an option but something he hope that she would never do.

Riley stayed silent for what felt like eternity. Her hands were warm with his wrapped around hers, she couldn’t find the will power to push him away. This was what she wanted. Finally, she took a deep breath, and met his gaze, “Fine,” she said, so quietly he wasn’t even sure he heard her correctly.

His eyes light up, heart filled with hope, and a grin spread across his face.

“But,” Riley eyes narrowed, “You fuck anything up, and I’m walking away.” She warned.

“I won’t,” Shingen promised, pulling her in for a hug and resting his chin on top of her head, “I’ll make it all up to you. I promise.”

“Great,” Riley replied, wrapping her arms around him, “You can start now.”

Shingen smirked and leaned down, whispering against her ear, “How about we get out of here and I can really show you how sorry I am?” His lips trailed alongside her neck and planted a kiss on her collarbone, causing a shiver to go down her spine.

Riley’s eyes glistened as she smiled teasingly back at him, “It’s gonna take a lot more than a good orgasm for me to forgive you,” she warned.

“Well then, I’d better get started,” Shingen smirked.

So how about we leave this party? Cause all I want is you up on me I’m tired of hearing “sorry” Kiss and make, kiss, kiss and make up

[alwaysandindent-blog]

Ocean

Part Two.

And in the dark times, you don't have to question If I'm a hundred with you

The moment the door shut behind Misao, Masamune pulled her to him forcefully as their lips meet once again. Now with more privacy, his hold is more forceful as he messes up her hair and the other hand trailing down to her full rear as his tongue parts her lips. As breathless as Misao was, her hands managed to unbutton his dress down shirt before running along his well defined abs that instantly heated her core.

Pulling up the skirt part of her dress, Masamune ran a finger gently under the slither of damp fabric. He broke the kiss quickly. “Someone’s eager for some fun.”

Misao playfully slapped him on the shoulder. “Shut up. I could say the s- oh!” She cried with pleasure as Masamune took one of her breast into his mouth, flicking her nipple while his hands worked their magic on her core. “Ba-abe!”

“Tell me you want more love.” He commanded in a low voice.

“Mas, I need more.” Misao begged as her hands held onto his neck.

“Consider your wish granted.” Masamune replied, lowering her back onto the seat as he planted kisses along her inner thighs, gradually getting higher and higher to the sweet spot. She screamed as the intensity continue to build.

“Mas - babe, I’m coming!”

A smirk appeared on Masamune’s face. “Come for me baby.” As she reached her climax, her knees tightened around his head before turning limp. “I have so many questions for you.” Misao uttered while panting.

The limo came to a full stop and Masamune offer his hand to her. “I promise we’ll get to your questions love but we have some more urgent matters to get to now.” He chuckled, seeing confusion all across her face. “We’re going to make up for lost time love.”

You could put an ocean between our love, love, love It won't keep us apart You could build a wall, I would run it up, up, up Just to get to your heart

Three years. Two months. Sixteen days. Fifteen hours. Eight Minutes. Forty five seconds.

Serenity filled the atmosphere yet mayhem filled Misao’s mind. She was dressed in a beautiful powder pink A-line and ballgown mixed dress, the tulle skirt decorated dainty with lace trimmings and a plunging neckline that revealed just the right amount of cleavage. However, words ran hundreds of miles per hour in her mind as she repeated her vows incessantly. It also probably didn’t help that there were multiple people working on her simultaneously as the time ticked against the clock.

A soft knock rapped against the dressing room door, causing everyone to stop what they were doing. “Misao?” Riley’s friendly voice was heard, relieving everyone as they went back to work. Entering anyways, Riley closed the door shut accordingly before walking over to where Misao was sitting.

Finally standing behind her best friend, Riley covered her mouth at the glow up treatment her friend was receiving. “Oh my God! Babe you are looking even more beautiful! You’re literally glowing!”

Misao let out a chuckle, grateful for the distraction. “Thanks babe, you cleaned up well too!” From the mirror, she could see Riley’s perfectly fitted powder blue crepe dress with a revealing back and a long slit down the skirt. Her open-toed nude wedges gave her legs and even longer and slimmer look. “Shit are we at my wedding or a runway?”

It wasn’t long until the makeup and hair stylist left the two best friends alone before the time came to it. Sitting down next to the bride to be, Riley took her hands, engulfing them in her own warm hands. “So, are you ready to be Mrs. Date?” She could tell Misao was more nervous than she looked when she looked down at their hands. “You know, two are perfect for each other. He’s a stubborn ass and you are always there to catch him when he slips. You’re a major Hollywood actress and he proposed to as if it were a dream. Now he’s giving you the royal wedding you deserve. You have nothing to worry about.”

Misao gave her a short smile as she picked her head up. “You’re right, but I can’t help being nervous. I’ve been reciting my vows for God knows how many times.”

“Nervous is good though.” Riley reassured her. “It means you really want this and you’ll go out of your way to not screw anything up. At least that’s how I reason with interviews.” Getting up, she pulls the bride up. “It’s time.”

With silence, the two best friend look deep in each others’ eyes before pulling into a warm embrace. Riley has been Misao’s longest friend and the only friend who still stayed relevant and put in the effort to keep in touch with her. The both of them evolved from talking about periods to careers to husbands and what the future may hold. Riley wasn’t just the best friend Misao never had, she was also the sister she never had.

Before tears can well up in her eyes, Misao pulled back. “Thank you so much babe. I hope to stand where you are the day you are standing in my place.” The two of them locked arms with each other before walking towards the main hall. The beautiful yet dreadful violins started Canon in D Major, signalling everyone to rise in unity and silence.

This was it, Masamune thought to himself. In about a minute and thirty seven seconds, his beautiful future wife will be standing right next to him. And in a split second, she would show up at the other end of the aisle. And there she was, refined in her simple but gorgeous dress baring just enough to let everyone know she is comfortable in her own skin. He knew secretly it was a tactic to make him weak in his knees. And it worked. As she inched closer and closer, he didn’t realize he was holding in is breath to the point of turning blue until his best man Ieyasu gently gave his shoulders a few pats.

And Misao saw the whole thing, biting her lips gently from revealing a grin while keeping her gaze at his. Masamune always knew how to take away her worries with minimal effort. It was a skill she wished she had but she knew he loved her for who she really is, a simple girl just working on her career like the rest of the people in the world. A gentle tap on her forearm from Riley alerted her to be careful of a few upcoming steps.

Riley handed Misao over to her future husband before taking her space by her side. “Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen.” The priest began. “We have gathered today to witness -”

“I don’t mean to be rude pastor,” Masamune begin, a wave of gasps and shock could be heard throughout the hall, “if I may, I’d like to speed this process up so I can spend more time with my wife.” With Riley chuckling to herself and Ieyasu letting out a soft grin, the pastor stood there staring back at Masamune with shock. “Misao, my love. You shall never walk alone, as I will always be with you - on sunny warm flecked days and in torrential rains, together we will brave anything that nature can bestow upon us. We are brave together, we are happy together, we will always be together, today and until the end of our days. You are my heart, my home, my joy, my every waking moment, my dream of happiness. Let's go grow old together.’ Finishing his vow, Masamune takes the simple gold band from his best man places it on her finger.

Misao looked into his eyes with adoration and love. “Mas, babe. I don't say you stole my heart, for I give it to you willingly without reservation. Take it and all I ask is that you take it with you wherever you may go. I love you with every beat of my heart, every breath in my body, and my every thought and deed. Whatever happens in our lives together, every day that we are together will be the greatest day of my life. I am so in love with you.” She takes the matching gold band from her maid of honor and places it on his finger.

The church was now silent, despite all the whimpers and sobs in the background from their guests. “Pastor, now you do you…” Masamune whispered over. Misao had to try to hold her laughter in.

“Ah yes.” The pastor cleared his throat. “I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride!”

Cheers erupted all around them as the happy couple only heard the syncing beats from each others’ hearts. Masamune dipped Misao dangerous back but held onto her for dear life as he planted the most passionate kiss onto her soft lips. Finally pulling both of them up, he breaks the kiss before picking her up bridal style and heading down the steps and through the aisle, their guests cheering and clapping as they passed by.

“Babe, we still have to go to the reception!’ Misao stated, unsure of her husband’s erratic plans.

Masamune smirks as he places her in the limo gently before getting in himself. “We can always be fashionably late love. In the meantime, I can think of a different way to celebrate our new husband and wife status.”

[alwaysandindent-blog]

Oceans

Part One. 

If we're caught in a wave, I will carry you over It don't matter where you are, I'll run to your front door

Two years. Five months. Twenty nine days. Twelve hours. Eleven minutes. Fifty four seconds.

Looking out at the Tokyo skyline the night has to offer, Masamune could not stop thinking about her no matter how hard he tried. It’s been almost two and a half years since she’s left for Los Angeles to finally put her career first. Standing behind the floor to ceiling windows that surrounded his sleek and polished office, he pondered over his memory of the last four years. Though some people consider that a short term relationship, Masamune knew she was the one the moment he met her.

Misao was the epitome of an angel. She had beautiful black hair that always flowed past her shoulders, light brown eyes carried a wide range of emotions, a soft button nose and soft pink lips she nervously bit down on whenever she was nervous. Her body consisted of curves in the right places and she was as patient as a saint. It was no wonder Masamune was head over heels for her. He especially loved the looks he’d receive from other men whenever they past them holding hands.

Yet now, there was nothing left between the both of them but Masamune couldn’t blame her. She has always stood by his side no matter how many times he’s failed from starting his business. While he was working on becoming one of the world’s famous and well paid CEO many saw on the headlines today, she was going to school and studying while managing their little studio. He could never resent her for finally deciding to go after her dream, even if it meant having to leave him.

The day Misao told Masamune of her plans to move across the ocean to pursue her dreams of acting, he asked her if she needed any help financially. It was the least he could do to repay her back for standing by his side like a loyal wife all these years. Not to his surprise though, she turned down his offer and insisted she needed to do this by herself for herself.

His only regret is him not telling her how much she meant to him.

When my head goes in different directions You know my heart's never on the move

Entering her makeup room, Misao sighed as she took her seat in front of the mirror while the hair and makeup teams started working on her. Per her agent’s orders, her hair and makeup was to be ready by 5:30 PM. As exhausted as she was, she only had happy thoughts. Although Hollywood rarely offered Asian actors and actresses any roles, Misao told herself she was lucky to score even a recurring minor role. She repeatedly told herself if she does well in this role, there will be more fruition to come in the future, her sacrifices were not for nothing.

As Misao stared at herself in the mirror, she couldn’t help but think about Masamune. How was he doing? Was he eating well? Does he remember to double check whether the car doors are locked? She couldn’t bear knowing negligence would cause him another break in, having to deal with it alone. She could feel her heart immediately beating faster by the millisecond at the thought of their past car break in.

But there was no reason for Misao to worry anymore. He was no longer her’s, she was no longer his. She couldn’t still be controlling every aspect of his life, whether it’s the color of his tie for the day or a potential women to walk side by side with. Afterall, Misao was the one who initiated their fall out. All so she could selfishly focus on her acting career over in Los Angeles, one of the world’s most smug places to live asides from New York City.

A tear threatens to escape from their ducts as she recalls the living in Los Angeles for the past six months alone. Everything and everyone was fake. She learned that the hard way. When she was offered a small role in a sitcom, one of the girls playing the lead supporting role was extra friendly to her when they acted a scene together. Off camera, Misao was on her way to the break room when she heard the very same girl making jokes about her slanty, oriental eyes.

There were many times Misao questioned if she was on the right path of her life, if this was all worth it. She’s lost her family as well as many friends due to her career aspirations, mainly because they told her she couldn’t do it; she could never be the main face of a big movie or TV show. The only real supporter in her life was Masamune but even he was removed from her life as well, of course, at her own hands.

But Misao managed to find the light at the end of the tunnel. There was finally a screenplay and director in Hollywood who saw through her talents and asked her personally to play the role of a leading lady. To her surprise, she wouldn’t need to change who she was for the role. Because the role was for an independent, strong, Asian woman who has to break through the ways of Asian conformity. To no contest, Misao gladly accepted the role. Since the film has been released, it’s topped the box office records on opening night and a week into opening.

Through the long journey, Misao finally has success coming her way. With a touch on the lips, Misao thanked the teams before heading over to wardrobe.

And in the dark times, you don't have to question If I'm a hundred with you

Unsurprising to him, Masamune has been thinking about Misao for the past two hours ever since he stepped into work which was well before his employees started their day. Looking at down at his sheen Omega Seamaster, it is currently 1PM over in Los Angeles right now. What he wouldn’t give to be sleeping in his bed to avoid reality?

But who was he kidding? Misao occupied his thoughtless mind during the day and came to haunt him at night. He was forced to have vivid dreams of what they had and what they could be if she was still laying next to him. At this point, he wasn’t sure if reality or fiction would be the better option. As painful as it was forcing all thoughts of Misao out of his mind, it had to be done if he wanted to acquire Shiho Bank Ltd. as quick as possible.

He didn’t realize the time until he heard a knock on his door. “Come in.” He ordered without raising his eye to meet the owner of the disturbance, knowing well it was his second in command, Ieyasu Tokugawa.

Known for his strong opinions, Ieyasu was full of wisdom and knowledge. Once a chemical engineer with a Ph. D., he felt unfulfilled at his job creating reusable plastics that he switched careers to becoming the vice president of Iketeru Industries right beside Masamune with an MBA in finance. Being composed was in his nature and he chose his words carefully before making them known. Through the last six years of working together, Masamune and Ieyasu formed a meaningful friendship. He was able to confide in his VP off the record about personal issues without judgment being returned.

Masamune also liked that Ieyasu knew his place. Bowing to the CEO before him, Ieyasu then picks up his head. “I have updates on Project Ripple.” His attention was now divided, but he didn’t pick his eye off the desk. “Stardust is about to premiere on the red carpet.”

Hearing those words, Masamune quickly picked up the remote and turned the TV on, the channel never switched. It was an order he had for everyone who had access to his room to never, ever change the channel. Everyone thought he was nuts but he only did things within reason.

And there she was, appearing like the goddess he remembered her to be. Her hair cascaded down her shoulders in big waves and the smoky makeup brought out her light brown eyes. The dress she was wearing was beautiful on her. Strapless navy blue bodice with a gathered skirt transitioning from navy blue to white, she owned the dress as the skirt train slowly flowed behind hair while her steps graced the red carpet.

Masamune couldn’t have been more proud of her. He’s watched the movie so many times and even though it pained him, he couldn’t stop falling in love with her over and over again. Misao, a strong and independent woman, was meant to take the lead actress’ role. With each viewing, he only longed to be in her life, and her in his once more.

A smile escapes his lips as he watched many other celebrities acknowledging her from the sidelines, welcoming her with hugs and air kisses. Afterall, she was the ‘it’ actress at the very moment. He couldn’t have been more proud, wishing he could have yelled at Ieyasu that that was his girlfriend on the screen and strutting her stuff across the red carpet. Leaning back in his chair, he crossed his arms across his chest, enjoying the very sight of the camera following her everywhere she went.

And then, there was him. Masamune’s one eye glared at the TV as he recognized the male actor who co-starred with Misao in the movie. Vinny Mann Jr., another hot celebrity in town. He clenched his jaw seeing Vinny’s arm around her waist, a little too low for comfort. His black button down shirt was open on the chest area and a pair of coral colored fitted slacks was an interesting choice. But Masamune concluded one thing, the dude’s ego was inflated as hell.

Getting up abruptly, Masamune grabbed his long peacoat, swinging it over his broad shoulders and letting them hang like a mannequin on a store display. Just before he was about to exit his office, he looked back at his VP and friend. “I trust you know what to do from here.” Masamune said with a grin only to receive a short nod in return. “Good luck my friend.” Opening the door, he finally leaves the office.

Just as Ieyasu was about to turn and face the windows, Masamune popped in one more time, “get me a ticket to that after party.”

But I've found my way to velvet sands I'll crash right into you

After passing her award for best actress, Misao’s team helped her switch out of her regal gown into a soft pale blue sweetheart dress that stopped on her thighs. Her team also ensured her long, luscious locks were kept in a messy bun, strays of hair flowing elegantly here and there. In no time, she arrived at the exclusive after party the director of her movie invited her to.

Her ride pulled up to another red carpet that led into the venue where dozens of paparazzis were already snapping away. When she finally opened the door, the shutter noises were amplified along with the shouting matches of the paparazzis trying get her to spill any industry secrets possible. Jokes on them, she wasn’t in on any gossip floating around, she thought to herself. Smiling sweetly for the cameras, she waited until her plus one to step out from the other side of the car and walk over to her.

“Misao! Over here!” One paparazzi called out. “Who’s your date tonight?”

Another one joined in, “is she your lover?”

Misao and her best friend looked at each other in the same time before bursting with laughter. “Yes, this is my best friend Riley and I love her to death.” She responded before throwing an arm around Riley for a side hug. “If you’ll excuse us, we’re going to party it up tonight.” Linking arms, the two best friends walked the very long red carpet together, finally away from the thundering shutter noises.

When the doormen opened the giant entrance doors, Misao and Riley gasped in surprise. The venue itself was actually someone’s home. A large chandelier dangled in the foyer, leaving a significant amount of room between people and the the chandelier itself. Two grand staircases were at either sides of the foyer. Deeper into the mansion, they passed the huge open kitchen where foods and drinks were open for taking. Passed that was a beautiful living room with black Italian leather couches facing a fake fireplace with a flat screen TV so large Misao couldn’t comprehend how big it was.

It wasn’t long before Gerry Nu, the director of their award winning best picture film, came over and started introducing them to all the celebrities in the house. Misao treated this advantageous networking event as if it were any other social event with the press. She could tell Riley was enjoying the time of her life, meeting some of her celebrity crushes in the meantime. She managed to help her best friend get in contact with the Prince of Bellevue.

After making her rounds, Misao guided them to the couches in the living room they saw earlier. Riley took two champagne glasses and handed one to her famous best friend. “So this is what I get to experience as the best friend of Misao.”

“Famous Misao.” She added, laughing at the correction with Riley. “Cheers to our first award show after party!”

“Cheers!” Clinking their glasses, they immediately sip their bubbly. “So how have you been adjusting to all of this? You’re practically an overnight success!” Riley asked.

Misao let out a long sigh, taking a seat on one of the couches where her best friend immediately took the cue. “Honestly, it’s everything I hoped for but at the same time, it’s not. This whole, thing,” she gestured her free arm around herself, “it’s a double edged sword.”

Crossing her legs, Riley placed a hand on Misao’s knee, giving her a soft smile. “Is it because of Masamune?”

The tiny hairs on the back of her neck stood at the mention of that name. Misao hated hearing it yet she was always reminded of their most happiest memories. She never dared to mention his name, afraid that even whispering it meant breaking down the shield she’s forged during the past two years away from Masamune.

But acknowledgement wasn’t needed on Misao’s part. Even for someone who literally just won an award for adopting other’s emotions and stories, the distraught on her face was clear as night and day. Riley couldn’t help but feel guilty, being the other party who pushed Misao to chase after her dreams. At that time, after losing her love, she convinced her best friend and herself that Masamune’s business was booming and that she should take the opportunity and work on her own career seriously. Although she wasn’t lying, Riley never imagined seeing her best friend facing so much inner turmoil.

“I’m sorry.” Riley apologized with a soft smile.

Misao returned the gesture before something, or rather someone caught her attention. Although many others were dress in a suit tonight, this person was still standing in the kitchen, looking around frantically for someone. His head snapped back and forth before finding what he was looking for, her. Her eyes widened and her jaws dropped, it couldn’t be.

The room suddenly went blurry and quiet except for his figure storming over with those deafening steps he took. His strides were filled with authority, the black suit fitting his figure so perfectly. His light brown hair was styled effortlessly. His eyes, never once leaving her’s, were filled with lust and determination.

“Ma-” Misao only managed to utter before her plump pink lips were converged with sweet warm ones. Immediately, warmth spread all over her body, breaking the ice around her heart. His hands cupped her cheeks warmly and protectively, assuring her she no longer needs to be afraid. She had longed for warmth and familiarity for so long she didn’t dare to disobey his command. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to enjoy the moment, kissing back more fervently.

He picked up her body language easily, never forgetting his mother tongue. His hands shifted now, one behind the nape of her neck and the other on her lower back, pulling her closer while securing her into the warmth of his arms. He didn’t care how crazy he looked or acted in front of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars at the moment. All he cared about was how much he’s missed her all this time and how he planned to make it up to her.

There were no words that exists to describe this moment, it was a dream come true. Even Masamune was surprised at himself managing to fly across the ocean within half the duration and crash this exclusive party. Those five hours in the air still felt like a lifetime as he contemplated on what he would say to his love after all this time. He rehearsed it many times to himself in his mind yet his actions spoke louder than those words.

He is still in a daze now that Misao was finally in his arms again and he was actually kissing her. The loneliness and dark clouds that once put him in a stump the past two and a half years were finally lifted and he could feel life once again. He couldn’t imagine how she must have felt moving to a new country and city all alone with Riley being her only true friend. He knew this time he couldn’t let her revoke that pain ever again.

As difficult as it was, Masamune broke the kiss apart, his eyes searching for hers. When he was able to find her soul through those brown windows, he noticed the room grew quiet. “I’m so sorry love, I never meant to hurt you.” He stated, finally finding his voice. “Through all the years you’ve stood by my side and watched my empire grow with me, I never once looked to my side for you. I deserve all the loneliness and heartache during our time apart since I held you back from chasing your dreams. I should’ve stood right by your side through all your failures and successes.” He let out grin, a hand wiping away a tear trailing down her cheek as she beamed a smile at him. “But you had no failures, I did. I let you down. But I never stopped loving you lass and I never will, not even after death do us apart.”

Picking out the red velvet box from his slacks, Masamune got down on one knee while opening the box to reveal a shiny 2 carat diamond ring. The waterworks struck Misao. “Misao, you must know you and only you hold my heart. You have only ever loved me unconditionally and I cannot wait to return the gesture. Then again, it’s so easy when you are the greatest love of my life. This is my vow to you.” He pauses, gesturing the ring to her. “Misao, will you do me the honor of making me the happiest man alive?”

Wiping her tear stained cheeks, Misao was finally aware of all the eyes watching the interaction between the two of them with their phones out. She must’ve looked so ugly crying the entire time. She couldn’t lie, her mind suddenly turned to mush and blanked out. After two and a half years, the love of her life enters the scenes again and confesses he hasn’t stopped loving her. How was any normal person react to that?

“I’ve never stopped loving you either, Mas.” She called him endearingly. “Mas, I never once thought of you as a hindrance or burden on my career. I chose to support you and your career first because let’s be honest, how many Asian actors and actresses ever actually become famous? I’m so touched you’re in front of me right now. And I’d love to make you the happiest man in the world because that would make me the luckiest gal in the world.”

An eruption of cheers fill the silence of the house as Masamune quickly but carefully place the ring on Misao’s fourth finger and picked her up and swung her around. After a few rounds, he places her back down before planting another long and deep kiss. Pulling apart, he says to her breathlessly, “let’s get out of here love.”

Without waiting for an answer, Masamune pulled Misao with him as the path through the house to the front door cleared for them. They rushed past the red carpet where paparazzis were still standing and new flashes emerged quickly. As the paparazzis shouted questions there way, the newly engaged couple gave them no mind before quickly hurrying into his limo.