harutostablet

[harutostablet]

Three men and a baby or Haru gets an imp

Haruto knew this would happen. With the official announcement of Ayame-kun's marriage (pregnancy) and that Mako-chan, the bass guitarist, was the groom (father). The idol would be busier than he had ever been and not because of music. As the face of the band Haru would be sent around doing PR events sometimes with another band member, but mostly by himself. The baby was a surprise to his band mates as well and the guys were working it out. No one was talking let alone rehearsing music. Since Haruto didn't live with the guys on the mainland full time it was easy for Haruto to miss the longing glances and secret codes the two had during this relationship. Daisuke and ChanMatsu, Haruto didn't know how they missed it? They were still in a relationship right? Not that Haruto talked to the guys about their love life. They didn't ask about why Tsukiya left. It was a mixed blessing. Though that wasn't much of a mystery. He was sure the tengu was taken for dealing with a human. For fooling with him.

It was an unspoken rule to leave that kind of stuff outside of the band. But, that same rule was what was potentially about to break up the band.

The Dandies were the good guys. The kind of guys you take home to your parents, not the extra bad boy types like his father or Manami. Those guys could afford an unapproved relationship. For the success of the band Haru would be a fun distraction. Posting videos with his brother. Live events with Haruto being "getting inspired and taking viewer requests on Instagram" at just the time people would have their phones before bed, etc. If they could hold it together long enough the Dandies were set to perform at the 30th Anniversary of the founding of the talent agency Uncle Kenji and his dad founded. And if there was one thing that one did not do was mess with Uncle Kenji's detailed plans.

When his uncle suggested they go to Kyoto for tea he was surprised it was a true ochaya. He'd been once before with his dad but that was years ago. Uncle Kenji and his agent were having a good time agreeing with each other about something with the agency while Haru sipped sake and looked at his phone. Ayame-kun set his calendar on his phone before she went on leave. One of many things she did for him before stepping down from her position. They had a small party for her at the office on her last day. There was so much he didn't know about his former assistant. She used to be apart of a girl group that didn't really take off but when you work for his uncle you always had a home. So she stepped out of the lime light, went to college and that was how Sayaka-san became Ayame-kun and then Haruto's assistant. IN the back of his mind he wondered why she never shared that part of her life with him? Would it have mattered? Would it have brought them closer?

Seeing his life in black and white made him feel old. As if the days were longer simply because he could see what little free time he had anymore. Especially if you factored in 'free time' was filled with his school duties and studying. Time was a blur anymore. He rubbed his temple with the heel of his hand. There was a light tap on the door and one of the maiko went to open it slowly. In the doorway stood a new guest.

"Ah, you've finally arrived," said Uncle Kenji.

Alcides allowed for the maiko to escort him before stepping into the room with a deep bow. His body shimmered and over his right hand balanced a strange ball of smoke. The smoke had a scent but it was very faint and soft, like warm unscented linen. Hearing the uncle, the imp almost seemed taken back by 'finally.' He was perfectly on time when he was asked to arrive. He did not argue though. Bowing once more he says politely. "Thank you for having me." His accent is deep in his pronunciations of Japanese words. If one could guess, it was Irish. Turning to the table. "Pardon my interruption, I am Alcides, of Tohoku district, Ecclesia keep." Haru might recognize Ecclesia as being the exchange house for imps in Japan. Alcides offers a pleasant smile as he stands formally. "I hope I can be of good service to you."

Haruto choked on his sake, seeing the imp and coughed even more when he explained where he was from. His manager reached over to pat him on the back, but Haru shook him off. He bowed his head as he tried to remember how to breathe. Not taking his eyes off the enchanting imp he whispered to his uncle. "What is the meaning of this?"

"Well, you need an assistant, and I found you one," Uncle Kenji said. He offered his cup to be refilled by a geisha and took a sip. "You can't expect a pregnant Ayame-kun to work you? I didn't think you would complain… considering…." The older man noticed how focused his nephew was with his newest decision. Haruto really was like Akita. Their passion came through their music. Kenji might not have liked dividing the idol's time with the University but it also got him two hit records.

Also like Akita, if their passions were allowed to run wild, they forget that this cut throat industry needed their fill of passion yesterday. That is where Kenji stepped in as manager. Forest fires are tragic but a controlled blaze helped everyone. He doesn't have to set the fire. As long as Kenji laid the kindling the musicians' passion would start the blaze.

Alcides sat rather formally. Almost too much so. Though not incorrectly, the imp was checking himself and stiff, as though rehearsing his movements. Absolutely like a foreigner becoming accustomed to Japan. He looked around the table before his eyes lay on Haru and he bows his head again. Offering a smile once more.

"You must be Ono-san. I sincerely hope you find me useful. I was told your former familiar was a tourmaline house imp. Perhaps mine will be a better fit." He says with positivity in his voice. His tail curled behind him.

Haruto just looked at the imp. "My… other…. Oh Ely!" he covered his mouth then looked at his uncle again and back at the imp seeing how uncomfortable he was. "I think there has been a mistake…" his gaze looked down. "I am. You don't have to do this… like whatever they told you or whatever…." um.. um.. " he didn't know the other's name. "What is your name?"

Alcides looked more and more confused as Haru spoke. He didn't know Ely at all, just that Haru had an imp before and 'it didn't work out.' Even more so, he was baffled by Haru's confusion.

"Uh. Excuse me. I will repeat." Bowing his head. "I am Alcides… but if that name is too difficult, you could call me Ali or another name you find more suitable." He offers.The little smoke ball swaying around slowly as his decorated nails seem to twist and direct it. Even so- he never lost his focus on Haru. Haruto sat up straight in his seat and bowed properly.

"I'm sorry. Alcides…Haru or Haruto is okay…." he said then paused trying to figure out how to get out of this.

Ueno, Haruto's manager, whispered "Maa maaa, what is all of this ?"and poured a cup of sake for Alcides. "This is a time to celebrate, right?" This was why Ueno trusted the boss's plays. Ueno didn't understand at first. Wasn't it an imp that caused this mess in the first place? But, if they find an imp that worked for the company then all of the singer's focus, hormones, drama would be managed in house. No more headaches worrying about how long it will take before someone gets a photo of Haruto blowing some guy, who glows in the dark, at night, in a back alley.

"Welcome to the team Alicides" Uncle Kenji said, raising his cup. "We're happy to have you." Haru's manager bowed and on auto pilot Haru also bowed. Haru caught himself looking at the two men who handled his life. He had to keep forcing himself to look away from the beautiful imp. Fuck.

"Uncle, why couldn't you just ask someone from an agency or something….." he bit his bottom lip. "I'm sorry Alcides, you don't have to do this, I don't know what you were told or whatever but I don't own people, '' Haruto rambled. Turns out that just because you have no time to yourself, if you don't spend a few extra minutes in the shower every morning that you start biting people's heads off. "That's weird."

The other two men watched the melt down like clockwork. It was only recently that Haru started acting like himself again. Kenji was sure it had to do with that well mannered prince disappearing.

"… and like….like… you should be able to choose what you want to do…" Haru tried imploring the imp.

Alcides just found himself still confused. Patiently listening between the three. His eyes on Haru. "Master Haruto. Forgive me for being… blunt, but there seems to be a misunderstanding. When asked if I wanted to serve you, it was because it is something I want to do." He answers honestly. Keeping that soft smile.

"I'm- not sure what your experience is with keeping familiars in the past… but to put your mind at ease, please understand. Just as you are human choosing to be an idol, I am an imp choosing to be a familiar." He seemed keen to the stereotypes and concerns associated with his kind. "If it makes you more comfortable to know, this is still an appraisal period. Should you dislike me, or I find myself incapable to serve you, then our contract need not be established." he looked off a moment. "Though I do hope you will at least consider." He didn't touch the sake in front of him.

Haruto blushed as the other talked, he balled his hands into fists and rubbed the front of his slacks in thought.

"Do you hear that Haruto? You would treat him just as you would treat any assistant," Uncle Kenji explained calmly as if trying to calm the hamster that ran in Haru's brain. His manager filled Haru's cup before setting the bottle down. Both manager and uncle were waiting to see what the idol would say.

"The agreements are already signed. "Kenji let him know that there was no talking around this.

"And this one can't get pregnant." Ueno said before taking a sip of his own cup.

"Why would you say that?" he felt embarrassed and took a deep breath trying to calm his nerves. It seemed he had no choice.

"This is a trial period right? So like if you don't like working for me, or whatever, you'll go where you want to go, right?" Haruto asked mesmerized by how beautiful the imp was, only making him more sure that this was a mistake.

Alcides listened once more and honestly felt a bit awkward by the conversation. This meeting was unlike any he'd had before but he still kept himself formal and polite. Looking back to Haruto he nods.

"If I find that I am unsuitable- uh- that I can not provide for you with all of my will, then I will return to Ecclesia and perhaps another imp will be offered to you." Though he did pause, and look off again, his cheeks seem to blush in a bright green against his otherwise violet skin. "Your uncle is correct. I cannot become pregnant… will this be an issue for you?" He asks Haru. Haruto was red faced.

"Well, I think we should let these two get acquainted. " Uncle Kenji rose to his feet followed by haru's manager Ueno. The geisha and maiko also rose to go with them.

"Be nice," he said softly to Haruto as the two left the room leaving him alone with the imp.

"I'm sorry about all of this…" Haru whispered looking at his lap. "Um, what kind of imp are you or whatever…?"

Alcides bows his head to the ones leaving the room. A combination of over bowing and simply 'understanding' his place would be below everyone else in the room, including the maiko. Looking back to Haru, his nails still twisting the smoke around the strange orb.

"I am smoky chrysocolla quartz coated after azurite imp… or celestial imp for short." He answers fully. Looking over Haruto to see if the man understood any of that. He didn't but nodded along anyway.

"Hm.. put simply as a smoky chrysocolla in quartz- I and my breed are known for record keeping. Being born through azurite is how I appear to have sparkles coming off my body. Thus the celestial imp nickname." He smiles a bit more. "I am told you quite like things that sparkle, though I hope that my appearance isn't too strange." Still keeping a positive tone.

Haruto shook his head. "You look really cool…" he said before thinking. "Um, what did my uncle tell you you were here for, or whatever?" he wanted to ask about the smoke, but baby steps.

Alcides didn't mind the questions at all and honestly welcomed them fully. "I am to provide you with assistance in your everyday life, scheduling, meetings, events, and maintaining time. As well as provide companionship and comfort when necessary." He chuckles softly. "I'm glad you find me- cool. Thank you."

Haruto blushed again and looked off. He picked up his cup and took a sip of the sake then noticed that the other cup was untouched. '`You don't drink?" he asked curiously.

"I don't need companionship or whatever… that is weird and I never asked Ayame-kun that kind of stuff or whatever… and you're my assistant so that would be weird or whatever…." he was rambling again. Haruto shook his head to not get lost in those light markings as they hid under Ali's clothing. Trying to figure out if he was angry or confused that his uncle seemed to know so much about him.

Alcides flinched like he'd been caught and bowed his head deeply. "Forgive me, while I understand it is a cultural norm, I avoid anything that could impair my judgment or focus…" He apologized. "Perhaps- under less formal circumstances in the future, I would be more inclined." Raising his head slowly.

"I have no intention of doing anything you would not like me for, however, please understand that there are skill sets for which I am made, and find the most comfort and personal happiness in doing…" Ali said still messing with the smoke orb. "If- it is not too discourteous to inquire. What were the expectations your former familiar failed to meet? I ask in hopes that I can focus on them."

Haruto set down his cup that was right. This was a business meeting. It felt more like an arranged marriage but, wasn't that also a business meeting? Haru bowed his head in apology. He placed his hands on his thighs again.

"Skill Sets?" Haru's cheeks pinked and he shook his head again. Focus. "You don't have to be formal around me or whatever…" at the mention of his previous imp he looked off. "We… disagreed about what we wanted in life…." that was the easiest, less painful way, to talk about his history with Ely. "And he wasn't MY imp…. we went to school together and dated for a while, and just broke up, or whatever…What is that smoke that you're holding?" trying to change the subject

Alcides listened to Haruto and seemed surprised. "You- were a couple? That is very different than taking claim to them… uh wait- does this mean- you've never possessed an imp before? Uh… sorry to ask so bluntly, but do you- have any experience with familiars outside of- dating one?"

Though he tried to sound formal still, that positive attitude wavered and he sounded nervous. His brows even a bit tense. He looked at the orb when asked about it. "Oh. This is how my kind keeps records. I record my thoughts and notes into this smoke and I am able to interpret it… it's like- typing on a laptop or writing in a notebook for me…" He explained but still seemed a bit thrown now that he realized Haru never actually owned an imp before.

"If, I'm honest, I wanted to free him…. but…. that isn't what he wanted…." Haruto couldn't help himself and refilled his own cup before taking a sip of sake. "I don't consider you a slave or whatever……" another sip

"Ono-san. I don't know your experience with imps but, from my research, I know you're an idol." Alcides brows knit before he sighs. "Such a career choice is very demanding. There are high expectations of you and often, you don't always have a say in every aspect. Your image, your presence, and how you operate are dictated for you. Yes- you could deny these things. You can easily say you don't want to wear nice clothes, or perform any dances. But then- you wouldn't be able to be an idol. And for our purposes- isn't that what you want?"

Haruto set his cup on the table listening, part feeling like he was being scolded. "Yes, I'm sorry…" he felt like he was messing up. He coughed, cleared his throat, and put on his best Idol face. This one is kind, open and sincere. "I apologize. I leave myself in your care." he gripped his dress slacks again and lowered his head.

"I'll try not to bring you too much trouble. " This guy was just an assistant, just an assistant, he would treat this guy… this really hot…imp… GAH. He would treat him like his assistant. Just that.

Alcides shook his head. "Your missing the point, but I guess I appreciate this… however… my service doesn't come free. As you said- I'm not a slave. And I'm not dating you. With collaring there are negotiations."

The little ball twisted around his fingers as he thought. "It's what makes you, having not been a former master, so- concerning… I'm a demon after all, I could take away your soul, your first born, all sorts of things. It's rather- foolish to so easily say your willing to stake my claim before knowing what I am taking from it… your uh- former imp- consumed energy from his master and eventually, it killed her." He explains in such a manner as though he were talking about stocks and exchanges.

Haruto looked up at the imp then flinched thinking not wanting to believe that Ely would kill someone that he cared about. "I'm sorry. What…are you going to take from me? Or is it with you and my uncle?" part of him assumed because he thought that only his uncle brokered this. He thought that either way this was done and his uncle fixed it the way that his uncle fixed everything.

Alcides thinks for a moment. "Well, it was discussed with your uncle but as I'll be serving you, the arrangement must be agreed by you…" Thinking carefully. "As an idol, you're not permitted to date anyone that's not chosen for you. I am well aware of your faux girlfriend. But with me, that will be even more- literal." He sways his hand.

"It's unfortunate that the last demon you were with was someone you have dated. As I have no intention of ever giving any love to you. Put simply… In exchange for my service, you will be feeding me with your body." He answers bluntly and with a manor still formal. Shrugging even. "Over time, you will find it difficult to give your body to anyone else, rest assured, you may still fall in love and date other people but uh… well. Put simply once more. What I am taking is your lust. Your sex drive, your uh- physical needs." He hoped he was clear enough to understand.

"I am told by your uncle that it's often something in need of regulation anyway, so perhaps this will be mutually beneficial."

Haruto nodded along at first listening, flinching at how clinically Alcides said love. His face glowed bright red, and his eyes grew wide. "I… wait…. Hold on…. why would my uncle …… say that…..Well, I don't know how this will work then because I take care of my own needs or whatever and like …. you would just be my assistant. I never slept with Ayame-kun…..so…….ya" he said like he said a thing.

Alcides nodded.

"Well, I am not an assistant like Ayame-san. I'm not paid in money, I don't go home at night and come back in the morning. I'm not employed. As a familiar, I am with you always, doing everything you need of me. I'll be living in your home, caring for your needs, Providing you with schedules and guidance as well as companionship. Hm… more like a live-in caregiver mixed with an assistant. I only ask to be fed my dues and that my bare necessities are met."

Haruto's breath was caught in his throat. His head could explode. "I, you can't live with me… I live.. lived with my band mates… the other guys or whatever… You can't just move in it would be weird. " he drank from his cup again feeling a buzz.

Alcides still hadn't touched his drink at all. "Well. Your uncle has provided us with a private apartment, until the current situation changes. I assume he was going to give me a key after this meeting, I guess the same will be said for you…" He continued to speak formally. "I suppose if you do not wish for me to serve you, then your uncle can request another imp, or perhaps you can stay in the apartment alone until time you are permitted to live with your band mates again."

Haruto coughed. "Wait what?" he had no idea that he was moving. "I'm not living with the guys any more?" he said between coughs. "I don't…..How do you know about it?" he knew that that meant that his uncle already made a decision. "How do you know all of this shit about me and I've never met you before?" he was frustrated and the coughing didn't stop, choking on his spit

Alcides stands when Haru is choking, moving behind him to pat him gently on the back and offer him some sake to help clear his throat. "Drink slower." He tells the idol. "Your entire life is in the papers. And should I become your familiar, then your life is mine as well. I needed to know what my living situation would be, as well as my keeper." He gives Haru a little space as he stands behind him. "I find you interesting, Ono-san. Enough that I'm willing to trade my freedom to serve you. But we have this moment now, and I've made my terms clear… What other shit about me would you like to know?"

Haruto starts getting it together and drinks down sake leaving his cheeks pink. He adjusts his tie to straighten it and his shirt. His gaze was more open as he moved to look at the other. Shit. "Does it hurt ? Or whatever. Like am I going to go in your ball or something if you need to feed or whatever…" he was rambling now. He bit his lip to stop talking before he said something extra horrible.

Alcides looked over Haru before chuckling a bit. "If I am not fed properly, I'll end our contract. In the old days, that meant eating you but now-a-days, I can simply go back to the Cheisa." He answers with a slight chuckle. "But- you shouldn't worry so much. You're new to imps but I am not new to masters. I'll take good care of you." He says in a hopeful manner.

Haruto nodded and reached for the cup again sipping slower, his cheeks pink. This was becoming more and more of a good decision. He coughs again but manages not to choke when the imp said 'he would take care of him'. He brought out his handkerchief trying to clean himself up before turning to bow properly. "You also." he said, bringing his hands up to his lap. "Where do I sign?"

Alcides pauses but laughs. "Your Uncle already filled out the papers and made payment for me as far as the Cheisa is concerned. You only need to collar me to make it official." He says simply enough.

Haruto nodded at the mention of his uncle already taking care of things, like money and his life decisions. His eyes shot wide at the last part. "Collar! But like, we just met or whatever!" he brought up his hands.

Alcides looked baffled. "Oh- I suppose. Do you always wait to collar a dog or cat?" He asks, confused. "We can wait if you are still uncertain, but without a collar, I am not bound to you."

Haruto felt oddly relieved about that. "I've never had one…well… kinda had one but he didn't wear a collar. Thank you…." he looked up at the baffled look. "I mean, I didn't know what was happening tonight so, I didn't get you one and I don't want to get like some ugly, one, since you're my first imp…" he said, making it up as he went.

Alcides paused but had to chuckle at this. It was- sweet. "Don't overthink it, but I appreciate your thoughts. For now, do you have any more questions for me? Or would you like to move on to our new home?" His tail swayed a bit.

[harutostablet]

Text from Yukito:  Uncle released the story! Ayame-kun and Mako-chan's wedding has been registered.  Did you know that she was in an idol group? Anyway, here's the article. https://japan.topnews.cloud/higedan-mak ... -yamamoto/ Text from Haruto: Who the hell is Sayaka?" Yukito: Ayame-kun's stage name. Haruto: huh, ok. Cool. Yukito: Uncle said he's going to send your congratulations out on your social media tonight. Haruto: Hai.

[harutostablet]

I think I may be losing my mind. Or have a stalker. Or both! I came back to school for a party at the library. Apparently, there was some remodeling or something and I missed or something.

But anyway after the party i went to take a bath and well, I'm blue. Like, really blue, like really, really, really blue!! Showered alot and then hopped the next ferry to the mainland.

Uncle thinks someone knows that I go to Mugen because it was left at my door. But how would someone know? Or fuck where my dorm room is? I barely know where my dorm room is!

So, now, I'm holed up in the band apartment and only get to go out for shows AFTER the full make up team makes me not blue or whatever. It's slowly starting to come off but it just sucks.

I thought, well I don't know what I thought I guess. At least it was't poison or whatever. I threw away the chocolates that came with it.

I guess I am famous enough now to have a stalker or whatever.

[harutostablet]

Yuki said I should look back at my journal to see if it helps me with remembering stuff. I haven't told anyone else. They already think I'm on drugs. It's possible right? I keep having headaches and dizzy spells. I usually lay down but I have too many duties to just waste time like that. Tsukiya's been helping through my dizzy spells. He's kind. He kept asking about the necklace I keep with me. We talked some more. I asked him if we were married or something. Then I would really be following in Dad's footsteps. Tsukiya couldn't give me a straight answer, its probably for the best. Uncle Kenji would handle it like he handles everything else.

We have alot of performances through the end of the year and the beginning of the new year. I won't let everyone down. I'm sure they have something that will keep me from being dizzy, right?

[harutostablet]

Haruto should have known something was up when Yukito met him on the dock. Already adjusting to his role as Uncle Kenji's successor, the youngest Ono leaned against a flashy red sports car, rocking a trendy hipster nerd look instead of the sleek suits Uncle usually wore. In the back of his mind, Haruto wondered how long it would take for his younger brother to take on that slithery feel all managers seemed to have.

"Who's car is that?" Haruto asked as he approached. Yuki, who had been looking at his phone, looked up and waved at his big brother.

"Haru-nii," he smiled. "Mine, a little present to myself." Haruto walked around the car, looking at all the fancy bells and whistles. He didn't want to think about how much it cost.

"When did you learn how to drive?"

"When I got back to Japan," Yukito said opening the card door and sat inside. Haruto followed suit. The interior smelled like new leather. I guess that's one way to get over a break up, Haruto thought. He wondered how hard it would be to get a driver's license. Yukito started the car and started driving while his older brother looked out the window at the world passing by.

"Haru-nii…Haru-nii?"

"Yeah?" Haruto looked back at his younger brother.

"Something happened didn't it?"

"No,"

Yukito sighed. "How is that guy with the tail? The one that pisses Ueno off?"

Haruto shrugged and looked back out the window. The Ono siblings were particularly close. Yukito wouldn't press his big brother, not when they had to deal with business in a few minutes.

"Dad and Uncle Kenji are meeting us for lunch."

"Yeah?"

"You might not like it,"

"Yuki…."

"A new anime is coming out and they want you to sing the theme song."

"And?"

"And they will only do it if you sing with the guys from the drama."

Haruto continued looking out the window so Yuki continued. "Your Japan sales boosted with the songs from drama and you read well with them. You'll see, it will work out." Haruto remained silent.

"I don't have to write the song, do I?" he asked. Music wasn't with him as of late.

"Nope, the lead singer of that band is pretty good," Yukito pulled in front of the restaurant. "It'll be a win, win; you'll see. " Haruto knew that his younger brother was putting on a good front. This was work they had to put on their game faces. Since Uncle Kenji planned this meal it was a very public restaurant known to be frequented by the rich and famous. There were waiting photographers to take the brothers' pictures and shout out questions that Haruto didn't hear. He kept a smile on his face and eyes forward even as they walked inside and followed the Maitre'd to a semi-private table where Akita and Kenji were waiting. An idea popped into Haruto's head as they were seated. He was looking his future and it hit him in a weird place, he didn't now how he felt about it.

Haruto sat next to his father while Yukito sat next to Uncle Kenji. Even after decades of performing and raising four children, Akita still had a a suave rocker look even if it was a bit more refined. . His shaggy bleached hair was immaculately styled and his clothes reeked of casual money but also let it be known that he was still a bad boy at heart. This was Akita's public face. The dad Haruto knew, spent his off time, as rare as it was, in a jinbei or sweats, watching cheesy samurai movies. Sometimes when Uncle came over for the veg sessions, the two old men would bicker about old man things until they drank enough sake to pass out on the couch.

"There are my boys," said Uncle Kenji. "Akita and I are discussing a little mess I have to clean up. "

"Kenji, don't say it like that," his father said softly. A waiter came to fill their water glasses and poured them both some white wine for the newcomers, halting the conversation until he walked away.

"A mess?" Yukito asked when it was safe.

"Yes, your father left a little present in South Korea sixteen years ago and now she is in a girl group," Uncle Kenji said as if he was talking about the weather.

"We have another sister?" Haruto asked as he put his napkin in his lap

"Officially, no," said Uncle Kenji. The waiter returned to take their orders leaving another lull in the conversation, Once he left, Uncle spoke softly to Yukito. "We will talk about how to handle these situations later. I doubt you'll have this issue with Haruto but 'fixing' is a large part of our job." The way Uncle Kenji spoke, it was as if Haruto and Akita weren't even there. The sucky part was that Haruto was used to it. He looked at his father. Akita was busy eating a piece of bread so Haruto did the same.

While they talked Akita gave is oldest son's shoulder a squeeze. "I saw the drama, it looks good, did you have fun?" he asked. Haruto shrugged.

"It was different or whatever," he said with a smile on his face. Akita didn't have to tell his children that he loved them or that he was proud of them. They knew by his actions and even though they traveled the world they were still Japanese. He gave Haruto's shoulder another squeeze before turning his attention back to Uncle Kenji.

"Now, Haruto, speaking of the drama your sales have gone up in Japan," Uncle Kenji said pulling up something on his phone. The waiter brought their food and left them alone once more. "We are going to use this upswing to solidify your place on the music scene. I worked out a deal with the manager of that other group and we have a few more things to hash out but we're putting your next solo album on hold while you work with this group."

"Why do I have to put my album on hold?" Haruto asked. Not that he was writing any music anyway.

"Because we want people to buy it when it comes out," said Uncle Kenji. "In order to do that, we need these guys. That doesn't mean that we still aren't releasing your other songs on the international market, but we need local money first."

"Yes, Uncle," he said automatically. He started to eat his food and slowly zoned out. This was a practiced measure. Nodding when he needed to, Uncle really wasn't talking 'to' him he was talking 'about' him. Someone would tell him where to go when it was time. The rest of the lunch passed quickly. When it finished Haruto still felt tired. Uncle Kenji and Akita left in one car leaving the younger set of brothers to wait for Yukito's.

"You need a vacation," Yuki said as they waited.

"You know I don't have time to go on a vacation," Haruto replied. "Between school, lessons, and now this new shit…"

"Yeah, let me see what I can do," his younger brother nudged him. "Me, you, a few drinks, sandy beach somewhere, no one knows us, dancing, a few hot guys…." he whispered the last part making his older brother blush.

"Hush Yuki,"

"It'll be fun, you'll see." Soon the red sports car was back. The brothers got back in the car. Yukito was going to go with Haruto on his lessons today.

"Hey, Yuki, can you teach me how to drive?" he asked once they were back on the road. The youngest Ono laughed and adjusted his glasses.

"Sure, but not in my car." he teased.

[harutostablet]

It's good to be back on campus and sleeping in my own bed again…even if I m alone. It was nice while it lasted. Once again I'm just a human. LIke I could help him with his family stuff…. It's okay.

i just want him to be safe, to be happy.

The music video premiering was kinda anti-climatic, but by now he's heard it 1000 times at the shows. He knows what the words mean.

I hung out with Masao for a while. It was cool. We ended up crashing my my couch and ate way too may snacks but it was fun.

[harutostablet]

I just realized that I haven't posted on my Tumblr since my birthday. Geez time flies! Have I really been that busy? Or maybe, I actually had time to think about my life tonight. Or maybe, I was just lonely enough to sit with my thoughts.

I'm not as scared as I used to be. The guys and I get along and I really feel like we're friends.. Daisuke even helped me write Pretender for Ely. Of course Uncle found a way to sell my emotions. I guess I should be happy. I am happy.

Blah. I need to pick up hobby or something. I'm better, but being alone, especially on a holiday like Tanabata doesn't help.

Ayame-kun sent me a copy of the interview we did for the movie release. I'm doing better at talking in front of people. Maybe I'll be able to do it.

We're supposed to go on tour soon. I need to talk to Uncle before then.

I want to be honest. I'm still a shitty liar.

[harutostablet]

Today a television reporter asked why I said it took a year for us to make an album when we haven't been together as a band for that long. It was a fuck up. It's been over a year since I finished an album. This one was so hard. Thinking of how much has happened

Becoming Vice President

Breaking up with Ely and everything after.

That time when all music was lost and I felt like I was going to explode.

Falling again, even though I'm still scared I'm going to fuck it up and can't tell the world about it.

To finding 3 guys who are just as passionate as I am and just as scared abut what our next song is going to be and if people will like it. Seeing them geek out about stuff that I took for granted growing up. Maybe that' s why Uncle had Ueno schedule all to shows in little bars? To give me a feel of what it was like for my Dad to get to where is. Where I'm face to face and can see a good crowd over a bad crowd and not get overwhelmed in my head imagining the worse?

Naw, probably not. That would be weird…

Daisuke still sneaks into one of the guy's bunks at night. I don't want to tell him I know they're dating. It would be weird. (It makes me feel lonely) I just put my headphones on and let them have their peace. I brought my body pillow but had to put a new pillowcase on it…….I hope he doesn't mind that I took a picture while he was sleeping for it. It's still not weird or whatever…..

I'm supposed to meet up everyone before the band tours S.Korea? I wonder what that's about.

[harutostablet]

Sibling Message

Yukito: I'm disowning Dad Haruto; Wait? What? Why? Aoi: Yuki, that's harsh. Kami: Dad is losing his mind in Mexico. Haruto: WHAT IS GOING ON ? Aoi: It's just a video. Yuki is jut being dramatic.  I want the four us to meet after the new year. Kami: Is everything okay Aoi-ane? Aoi: This is what Yuki is worried about, Haru.

Haru: Weird Yuki: IKR! Aoi: You can not disown Dad Yuki. Keep an  eye out on your calender for us to have dinner. Kami: Hai, Aoi-ane Haru: Hai! Yuki: Hai.

HLove: Why can't  old men just sit and drink on vacation? YLove: This is them drinking on vacation! HLove: ........... YLove: Congrats on the new album. Uncle's excited about it. HLove: Thanks and thanks for the other thing Yuki YLove: It's fine. He seems nice. A little quiet tho.

[harutostablet]

I don't know how much longer we can keep it a secret and that makes me sad.

It's stupid but almost like it makes it less special. Like my dancing, my music.Once everyone gets their grubby hands on something that is precious to me that it will be destroyed. No longer mine. No longer special.

That's stupid too.

The Dandies are going on tour after the new year so that is exciting I guess. Just me and the guys.

Chimere is giving me a trail run at being president. That's cool. I hope I don't fuck it up.

I don't care about wing club anymore. It's on the list of stuff that doesn't matter. Another round of apologies or whatever.

I'm tired of not caring.

[harutostablet]

Our newest video came out. It was one of my songs, with a few tweaks from the guys. Because you can't say imp or whatever in mainstream music. It's fine or whatever. It doesn't matter. I don't care.

The secret is still a thing. Which I'm actually pretty happy about. Kevin-senpai and fucking Kuro keep trying to put it on blast but how would they even know! We've been so secretive about everything. But maybe it's not enough. I kinda like having something that is just mine… and his…. it makes it more special whatever.

GAH scratch that that was stupid! Fuck.

It doesn't matter. Anyway, when I showed uncle my reworked songs with the guys uncle said he liked them better. Like yeah they are emo songs but are fuller or something. Whatever. It still feels like I'm pouring my heart out but.. with the guys they are a buffer to some of the emotions. Like, playing with them I'm not alone and I get out all the bluck or whatever before they touch the world so that's okay I guess….

[harutostablet]

It's not dating but I'm doing it again.

What if I fuck up again?

I can do this.

I have to at least try.

[harutostablet]

Holiday Industry Party

This years party was at a glassed in roof top sky scrapper. The natural stars were blocked out by twinkling fairy lights across the ceiling. There were photo op places and a stage for musical performances. Haruto and his band, thankfully, they weren't dressed as elves but matching red, gold, and green plaid suits, with holly flower pins in their pocket. Haru stayed off to the side listening to the current set of musicians sipping from a glass of champagne. The guys were in awe of these kinds of things so they were floating about.

Kai was holding up a wall and sipping his champagne. He was being escorted around by his agency president, and of course people were simply adoring the wings. Few supernaturals were so exposed so they had their very own in a captive audience for a little. His manager making him promise to not dye anything for the party.

Haruto saw Manami by himself-ish. Haru put on his brightest smile and walked over intent on talking to the other guy. Instead of a duo like last year, he was apart of a set. But at least he wasn't an elf! Thinking about last year made him blush but he shook his messy styled hair. "Merry Christmas!" he said to Manami and anyone that was around him .

"Merry Christmas" Kaito nodded and sipped his drink. "Well…better than last year."

Haruto walked over beside him. "What is?" he whispered. "This is party better or whatever?" he looked around. "Are you okay.. with the wing stuff …" he knew how the other felt about it. "What are you dressed as this year?"

"A successful person." He wasn't in a costume, just a suit that cost more than one really should pay for a suit, the green and red highlight pieces made it lovely.

Haruto frowned. "I'm successful," he frowned and sipped his champagne. "We're playing tonight because our album is coming out or whatever….successful people are always working or whatever…." he nodded. he did think that Manami looked nice but he totally wouldn't admit it. "I"m not an elf!" he said.

"So you are….?

"A successful person," Haruto nodded, only looking like 3 other people flitting about the party. His band mates soon came over with a plate full of food. "Hi Kai!" Daiskuke said smiling looking up at the extra tall actor. "Merry Christmas. Are you going to watch us play?"

Kaito grinned and nodded. "Hell yeah, highlight of this party." His manager was signing a few things to him across the room, and he signed back. Her grinning and shaking her head.

Haruto looked at the waving fingers. When he saw Manami's manager he waved and smiled. "Merry Christmas!" he said even though he knew she couldn't hear even if they weren't across the room. She could read lips and signed it back to him. Kai just smirking as she added the "fighting" gesture. Haruto recognized fighting and did the motion back.

"Your manager is hella nice…" he said the looked at Manami with a flat look still trying to figure how so many nice people were around the mean siren. Much to the confusion of Haru's band mates.

"Who is that?" they whispered among themselves.

"She's my manager. " Manami's was cuter and nicer. He won.

Haruto sighed because it was true. "That's really cool Kai," said Mako-chan the bass guitarist. Ayame-kun soon came by the band not saying anything but that was the signal. They had to change before there performance. They were debuting another song. "See ya Manami." Haru said turning to go.

Daisuke was the last to go. "Can I talk to you later?" he asked watching the band head to the dressing room.

Manami looked surprised. "Sure."

Haruto turned to see the conversation but not what was heard as he waiting for Daiskuke to come with them to go change. There was a weird twinge in his stomach that he didn't like. When they went to the dressing room Haruto watched his band mate as they changed into yet another set of matching-ish outfits. Haru shook his head he had to get in the game. As the other band got off, the piano that was in the back of the stage was moved forward. Haru was still watching Daisuke until they were announced and walked onto the stage

Manami stayed quietly to listen , not planning to get in the way or take attention off.

Haruto went to the piano and sat down while guys went to their microphones. Haruto went away from looking at the crowds. It made him feel better that way. Especially since this was still a networking event and he knew Ueno was floating about somewhere. He took a breath and started playing

Manami would sip the wine that he had been given and nodded at Ueno and then look back to the stage.

Haruto finished the song, his hands didn't shake as much as they used to. They bowed a few times at the applause. Haruto smiled and turned to go as the emcee spoke about the band's tour dates and their recent CD. Ueno acknowledged the actor with a smile then went to make his way to Manami's manager.

[harutostablet]

Life

Work: Life doesn't suck as much, either that or I'm getting used to it. Uncle took away all of lessons and replaced them with pop up performances and my nights are filled shows at dive bars. Saturday night and most Sundays were more performances. Face to face performances, seeing the people up close that make up the waves of people, eye to eye.  It's not so bad. At first I worried that like people would boo or whatever and like the first shows were hard at first but pills make everything better so it's okay.  The guys usually stay and mingle but that feels weird so I leave and head back to school. Ueno said that the reason why  we're working all of these dive bars is so that the guys are completing their end of the contract.They get music videos, radio air time, uncle's connections, and they make me look like I'm not a rich legacy kid to the  public. I didn't realize that was such a thing but apparently people don't want to buy music from a rich kid.  As long as the guys are happy.  I asked Ayame to record some of the sets. It's kinda cool performing with everyone, even if I'm paying for the stage friendship.  I didn't ask how long this contract was supposed to last. It would probably make me sad. Manami is better after his wings popped out. I got to touch them, that was kinda cool then he snapped at me. I've been working on Yuuto's demo but I hope it doesn't make his drinking worse.  I'm still going to introduce him to Uncle Kenji. I promised. School: I'm on thin ice with Ohmai-sensei.That will probably be an ongoing thing. I just don't want to get kicked out of school.  It's not the magical safe space I thought it would be but at least I choose to be here with their lies than on the mainland. And now that I see this place for what it is  i know how to act, what mask to put on.  Maybe I'll go on a vacation or something when Uncle lets me  so I can be myself again. Love: Ely apologized for trying to take everything away from me. I don't blame him. It doesn't matter. He fucking his way through the student body.I don't care.  Maybe if he had done that when we were dating then then he wouldn't have been so mad at me when he left me alone.  Uncle says I'm not allowed to date for the time being. My outside relationships are missing up both work and school so there is that.

[harutostablet]

My showcase or graduation or whatever you want to call it didn't suck. There were alot of people I didn't recognize but strangers usually come when people leave the school or whatever. They are usually producers or run dance companies or whatever. Usually these kinds of things are planned. Maybe it was, it's not like I need to dance alot with this group.

Uncle, Ueno and Yukito came. I didn't see if they watched me or not. Uncle did let me spend the whole day, well, I think I had to because some of the guys that performed in one of my numbers had later classes.

The cool thing was that I got to pick the songs I wanted to dance to for my last hooray and choreograph them. That was really cool.

Dancing, I felt like I got to burn off alot of the anger or whatever. Practicing was one thing but actually performing them felt freeing you know?

We paid for everyone's lunch, including the traditional white rice with a hint of red beans. From what I heard the white represents the cutting of ties and gratitude. The red is the future and the possibility of coming back. Its usually for retirement parties but I guess I was or whatever.

The last number of my showcase was with a group of students who testing into the group I was leaving and I also had to teach a girl group that was auditioning to get into the school. Beginning/ ending thing. It saved time for everyone.

I get evaluated to see if I learned anything and they get evaluated by how they do. It was cool or whatever.

Now that it's over I do feel better? Like I felt numb for a while but now that it's done…

I don't know. I can't stay in a shitty place forever right?

I listened to Daisuke's song. It took me a few times to understand why he said he thought of me when writing it. It makes sense or whatever.

I can't suck. Not anymore. Other people believe me .

[harutostablet]

Group Rock Festival II

Once their duties were done the Dandies had a few hours break where they rested, showered, and changed clothes. Time seemed to fly by before they were back at the festival. The evening set was really just a guest appearance. And thanks to all camps involved there was a huge buzz about who the mystery headliner was going to be.

Of course they had to shoot a vlog for the rock festival. Since their managers weren't around Haruto happily let Makoto take the lead. It was just something fun and quirky about growing up in Japan. Haruto fibbed a little. He could only speak about coming back to Nagoya when his dad did.

After the video they sat in the back room waiting saved for talent. There were an array of snacks and drinks both alcoholic and not for the taking. They guys were bubbling with excitement as they raided the table. Ayame-kun was far too polite to giggle.

"This is so cool!" Mako-chan said with a mouth full of cookies

"They always have snacks and stuff back here…."Haruto said as he rested on the couch.

"Not for us," said Daisuke with his own hands full of snacks. "Not before." Haruto looked at them confused but nodded,happy that they were happy.

Haruto looked at his phone. He rarely looked at social media but with all the work they were doing to build this new brand he was narcissistic enough to want to see their progress and maybe see if anyone caught their set earlier.

He scrolled through the feeds smiling at how cool they looked together. Soon he found his his way through old feeds old messages, but then when they formed the new band, some of the old blogger that followed the guys before it gave him pause. Haruto knew that the guys had followers before but it was nice to see.

The blog post was about how they hoped the addition of a second rate legacy singer wouldn't corrupt the pure sound of their music. Haruto searched through the comments about how there was so much build up about Haruto being a rising star then attaching himself to this other group. Others came to his aid with comments about how this would be good for both. One of the hardest comments was that they expected more from Akita's son.

Suddenly, there were hands over his eyes, jerking him out of his thoughts.

"Guess who?" cooed a familiar female voice.

"Bailey-san?"

The hands moved away from his eyes and the young woman sat beside him.

"How was your set?" he knew Bailey had an early set on the first day.

"It was alot of fun. We didn't have the same number of fans you had but not all of us can get on the main stage." Haruto flinched.

"At least you go to perform?"he offered.

"At least," she said. Daisuke came over to bring Haruto a drink.

"You like this this one right?" he said. "You're Bailey-san right?" Daisuke said offering her a drink as well. She looked at the Daisuke, she leaned in.

"Alot of things make sense now," Bailey whispered to the boys. "Kaito-san carrying you out of the party , those guys in or hotel room. You choose them over me."

Haruto flinched. "I don't know what you're talking about….

"A-chan and I are in the same agency. She told me everything. How you clung to Kaito-san and left her at the club. " She turned her gaze to Daisuke. "How you and your little dandies had a nice, naked, party in the hotel room." It was Daisuke's turn to flinch.

"Bailey-san stop," Haruto whispered.

"It's not that he doesn't like getting sucked off for roles, I just have the wrong set of lips.

"Stop!" Haruto barked. "You got paid off me too, right?" he looked her in the eye. "Are you really mad that I didn't fuck you? Or did you not get paid enough?" He pulled his wallet out of his back pocket, pulled out a hand full of bills. He reached for Bailey's hand and forced the money into her palm. "If you want more talk to Ueno, but I won't let you talk about me or my band mates anymore."

"I'm not a cheap whore!" she glared back throwing the money back at him.

"Leave Bailey-san,"he said watching with a cold gaze. The young woman turned and rushed away from them. Daisuke knelt down to pick up the money handing it back to Haruto

"I'm sorry," Haruto told Daisuke putting the money back in his wallet.

"What she said was true about us," Daisuke said. "Even in school there were rumors about us."

"She doesn't get to say it," he said. "Not when she made money off of me too." Haruto sighed. "I know we aren't actually friends but we still have to work together. You guys have been really nice to me and that's worth something," he sighed.

"I was going to send this to you tomorrow," Daiskuke puled out his phone typing something out, a few seconds later Haruto got an alert on his phone. "That's the file for the sumo anime. I, thought about you when I wrote it."he patted Haruto on the shoulder before walking away to join the other guys. Haruto sighed again, he'd look at it later.

Haruto sat back on the couch he wanted to close his eyes until it was time to work, but he spotted his younger brother milling about.

"Yukito?" he called out.The youngest Ono looked like he was caught and went to flop down beside his brother. "What are you doing here?"

"Supporting my big brother," he said looking around

"My set was hours ago,"

"Oh." Yuki said still looking around the room."Is… Kaito-san around?"

"Really?" Haruto laughed.

"What? Haru-nii gets all the cute guys."Yuki pouted. Yukito's phone vibrated. "Shit, I have to go."

"Where?"

"Uncle wants me to scout this group on one of the other stages."

Now it all made sense.Yukito hated the music part of music festivals, this was work.

"Have fun," Haruto waved a his little brother got up. Yuki tsked.

"We're coming for Dad's set tomorrow. You coming?"

"Yeah," he said relaxing into the couch again until it was time to work.

[harutostablet]

Group Rock Festival

The festival was held in one of the largest parks in Tokyo and spilled out across several city blocks with food stalls, venders, and some street performers. To make up for the delay of the previous year, the promoters booked many of the acts from last year as well as several surprise acts held at strategic times to really pull in the crowds.Dandyism was booked in the early afternoon of day two of the event. It was after the hottest part of the day and when many of the festival goers were coming back after lunch so it was likely the guys would have a sizable crowd to play too. Uncle hadn’t told his dad about some of the shit he was going through at school, probably for the best. Uncle was good at cleaning up messes, and this was Haruto’s. Being at the music fest was a really good distraction.

For Haruto, it was still like playing to a wave of blurry faces, but the excitement of his band mates was contagious. From the moment the made it back to their designated backstage area it was like they were kids in a candy store, walking around taking pictures of the backstage setup, fanboying about some of the other acts they saw on the lineup.When Akita stopped by to wish his son luck Haruto couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Daisuke looked like he wanted to faint at any moment and Mako-chan wanted to talk about Akita’s entire discography. Once they settled down, Akita thanked the guys for putting up with his son and invited the boys to come backstage during his set the following day. Which, Haruto never thought about needing to get an initiation. Usually he and his siblings would pick that time to do the most exploring because any responsible adult in his dad’s camp were busy. In the blur of recordings and promotions, after one appearance, the dandies recorded a ‘safety video that played in certain strategic spots through out the fest. They weren’t the only ones. A few of the other groups were also given time to make short promotional videos that featured both the times and locations when they were performing. In the Dandies’s video Haruto spoke for the group talking about different locations for the stages. Of course, they took the opportunity too to promote band’s most recent mini-album ( pre-Haruto) and announce a few locations they would be after this festival.

When it was their turn to go, Haruto was a bundle of nerves and caffeine. Instead of dancers, he had his bandmates and the hired musicians. Ueno pointed out the strategically placed cameras that would record the festival and reminded him to make sure to hit all the points on the stage. He took a last drink of water as their band name was called and their picture showed up on the screen. The first song was their debut number called ‘Brothers’. Anything to push the illusion of what they actually were.

The second number was on theme with the brother’s theme. It wasn’t completely hashed out but it was enough for this. This was the song they wrote the first time Haruto got in trouble and had to stay in the apartment with the guys. Once again music was able to express what words could not. This song felt more real, it was something that they did together.

Haruto felt pretty good about their set. The guys were also happy. Masu said that this was the most they've been on television shows.

Haruto said nothing.