Page 11 of The Arrival
“Hi, Hisaki.”
“Thank you for the compliment,” Haruka says. “Is there something that we can help you with?”
The young vampire stands straighter and takes a breath. “Yes, well, I have a concert in Osaka next month. I would be delighted if you could attend… Of course, I would provide VIP access and tickets for you. It would be my honor to have your support. Th-there’s even a song I’ve written that was inspired by you.”
“I understand. Please submit your request formally to Asao. Upon receipt, we will respond within the week. As you know, he manages all appointments for the estate.”
“Yes, yes, of course. I know, but—I will do as you’ve asked, my lord. And… thank you for attending tonight. It’s a pleasure to see you out like this. Truly.” Hisaki hastily bows once more before rushing down the path.
Nino looks up at his husband. “You big meanie.”
Haruka scoffs. “I have seen this behavior countless times—he romanticizes me solely based on my appearance and the inherent allure of my nature. He is openly insolent toward you, and I will not tolerate his behavior.”
“He’s a child with an inappropriate crush. He’s brazen, though. I’ll give him that. Little jerk… When I graduate to manipulating people with my aura, can I try Hisaki first?”
Haruka chuckles. “No. Naturally, I should be your first test subject. This way, if you kill me, there is less damage for Asao to conceal.”
Drawing back, Nino scowls. “I willnotkill you.”
“I meant that as a joke. Obviously, I can defend myself if necessary.”
“Anyway, are you going to his concert—”
“Absolutely not.”
Nino snorts. “But VIP! We could go together and make out backstage?”
“Tempting, but still, no. Besides, I can have you right here and now.” Haruka blinks his sangria eyes, confident in his assessment.
The heat in Nino’s groin kicks up again, like a rush of liquid fire straight down his spine and directly to his shaft. “You’re doing that frisky devilish thing tonight. I love it.”
Haruka tilts his head and steals a swift kiss. “From what I understand, this is appropriate behavior for a party of this nature.”
“Dios mío, I walk away from you two for ten minutes and you’re all over each other.” Junichi walks up, his mask in one hand and the other running through the tight curls atop his head.
“How was the Tour de Ren?” Nino asks.
“I survived… and fed, which was convenient, actually. I won’t need to go all the way to Hiroshima this week.” Junichi huffs, picking up his glass and sitting back down on the bench beside them. “The aristocracy at large is at peace once more—having seen me with my monster. Everything is as it should be.”
Nino raises an eyebrow. “You know, if you link up with Jae as a source and companion after he awakens, it could help solve that issue. I mean, I could be wrong, but he seems like the much healthier choice for you?” Nino has deliberately avoided using the terms “bond” and “mate,” knowing Junichi’s aversion to those specific words.
Junichi pulls his glass from his lips, one corner of his mouth upturned. “Who’s to say that Jae would be open to that? Maybe he won’t want anything more to do with me once he becomes a full vampire.”
“He will,” Nino confirms, unblinking.
“Mm.” Haruka nods. “Without question.”
“You two are confident.” Junichi turns his head to stare across the blood-red pool. “I like Jae, but… I don’t know. One step at a time, alright? Just relax.”
A moment of pause settles around them, and the collective sounds of laughter, chit-chat, music and even the autumn wind rustling the leaves rush to the forefront of Nino’s senses. He likens it to a playlist—sound effects for a successful Halloween party.
Haruka stretches his arms up, then exhales. “This is fun.”
Nino draws back. “Holy shit—did you hear that, Jun?Pleasecorroborate this moment for me.”
“I did,” Jun confirms. “Somewhere, an angel just earned their halo.”
“What are the chances that you’ll dance with me in the ballroom? A slow song.” Nino grins. Haruka stares down at him, silent as he contemplates.
