Alternative Universes

nuraya

“Omi… “ Manx called from her office, trying to intercept the boy before he scurried past her door. “…come in here for a moment.”

With a smile, Omi shoved his stack of folded linens into the arms of the girl at his side.

“Coming,  Manx!” He called in his usual cheery tone as he and the girl juggled the stack between them for a moment. Once he was sure she had it, he hurried into Manx’s office, pulling the door closed behind him. Privacy, especially within these walls, was paramount.

“Sit.” She offered a seat by the window as she poured them both a cup of tea. “We have some details to discuss for tonight.” She handed him a cup, sitting beside him in the window seat, gazing out over the gardens.

Omi scanned his mental inventory for anything he could possibly have forgotten. With the Japan Series now concluded, this was set to be their busiest weekend of the year. Between the reservations and the new memberships, it was going to be a delicate balancing act but he was sure he had it under control.

Manx giggled to herself as she sipped her tea, watching Omi’s eyes scan the invisible computer screens in his head. “Drink your tea. There is nothing wrong with tonight’s plans.”

“We have double checked everything twice. The laundry is on overtime for the entire weekend and …”

“Omi… relax.” Again she chuckled as she gripped his knee insisting he take a sip with a tilt of her chin. “It will be fine. We have a special guest arriving tonight. And no, he is does not have a reservation.” She patted his knee in an effort to cut off his questions before he had the chance to lower his teacup.

Manx sipped again at her cup. Omi then settled in with a big breath. If Manx was determined to take her time, it was obviously something more than a simple change to the reservation schedule.

“I can’t believe you’re eighteen already.” Her soft lilting laugh should have put him at ease just as her warm expression should have brought a sense of comfort. Right now both only confused him and served to put him on guard. Conversations beginning with non sequiturs were never good.

“You’ve been involved in your father’s business ever since I can remember.” Manx still saw the mop of blond hair and wide blue eyes of a precocious little boy with an infectious laugh. But now, he wielded that boyish charm like a weapon in the right situation.

“ I’m still not sure how you managed to stay so… “ His wide blue eyes belied the sheer cunning that lurked behind them. “… grounded. I suppose it’s about time we started treating you like the young mogul you were born to be. Since you want to be more involved in the management of your father’s business, we’ll meet tonight’s guest together. It should be quiet interesting, to say the least. ”

“This guest is that important? Is Father coming?”

“No, he’s not. This guest is coming at the behest of your Uncle Reiji. Your father feels it is in our best interest to entertain him.”

“Why would father help Uncle Reiji?” The suspicion was rife in his voice.

Again, Manx sipped at her tea. Interesting was, perhaps, an understatement. Omi’s suspicions, though, were not.  “Tonight, you will be introduced to the wonderful world of corporate politics. Your father is trusting us to negotiate this challenge, whatever it may be. If he were to do so personally, it would insinuate that our company has stake in your Uncle’s affairs.”

“So we just need to ensure that this guest is entertained? I’m sure that will be no challenge at all. Do we know his preferences? OH… if this is at father’s request, I’m sure he wouldn’t mind if we make use of his suite, since he won’t be here. That way we won’t even need to juggle reservations… ”

Manx chuckled. The boy was already anticipating the details but not, quite yet, seeing the bigger picture. “That is a good idea. But he will not be here for entertainment alone. And, before you ask, no, I do not know what other business he may have with us but your father was adamant. We are to negotiate in our own best interests.” Manx returned to her desk, returning her cup to its tray. She slid open a desk drawer and pulled out a magazine.

“If this is Uncle Reiji’s guest, why do we need to negotiate anything at all?” Omi’s eyes followed after her, his flurry of thoughts arguing over which path to ponder first. It wasn’t uncommon for his father and Uncle to exchange tense pleasantries and the occasional professional consideration. Despite the feud between them, business was still business and decorum still needed to be observed. But negotiation sounded like more than just professional consideration. “I’m not inclined to do anything that assists Uncle or his company.”

The blond stood, joining Manx at her desk, reading over her shoulder as she flipped through an American issue of Forbe’s magazine.  She glanced back over her shoulder with a small smirk. “Neither am I, but we will give this particular guest our full attention.”

She stopped on a picture and laid the magazine flat for Omi to peruse. “Of the ten richest men in America, we have to honor of entertaining number six.”

Omi’s eyes went wide. Not only did he recognize the man in the picture but every single person in their industry would recognize him. Or, at least, one very impressive part of him. “You have got to be joking…”

Manx just smirked and shook her head. “Your Uncle is in a precarious position. He has very nearly been outmaneuvered for controlling shares in his own company. Care to guess who is snapping his leash?”

“If Uncle loses control of his company… “

Manx could see the gears in his head finally spinning in the right direction.

“It is in our best interest to accommodate his guest. Just make sure the girls are on their best behavior. ”

“Shuichi, I don’t like it. We do not need these kinds of wild cards thrown into the mix. If Reiji would give us some idea what exactly we are walking into, we would not need his… his…” Manx was trying her best to remain diplomatic “…assistants.”

Shuichi chuckled on the other end of the phone. “You are being generous. Just keep an eye on them and try to keep their fans at bay. If you let them work the floor, they’ll be out of your hair most of the night.”

“I have a bad feeling about all of this.” Manx finally conceded after a few long moments of silence.

“I’ve asked Birman to join you. If you need me I will be a phone call away.”

“I’m more concerned about these… women… than about our guest.”

“I know that you and Birman are more than capable of keeping them line.” Shuichi’s confident chuckle was all the reassurance she needed.

“We’ll need to have eyes in the back of our heads tonight. “ Manx sighed. “I’ll call when I have a good idea of what we’re dealing with.”

“I’ll talk to you later then. Good luck. And Manx… thank you.” Shuichi’s grateful smile was clear in his voice before he disconnected the call.

Manx stared at her phone as the screen went blank, silently cataloging the shifting dynamics in this game that Reiji had forced them into. If nothing else, she was a professional, uniquely qualified at going with the flow. And, with Birman at her side, there really was no way anyone would gain an advantage over them, especially in their own home.

“Staring at it won’t make it ring any faster.”

Manx startled out of her thoughts, a wide grin instantly creasing her face as she caught site of the lithe brunette in her doorway. They met in the middle of the room tossing their arms around one another, squeezing each other close before pulling back to kiss softly.

“I’m glad Shuichi called you.” Manx smiled before reclaiming her lips, kissing Birman long and deep, etiquette be damned.  “ I wish you weren’t here for work.”

“I don’t know. Tonight has the potential to be quite interesting. I mean, not as interesting as this…” Birman let her hands and eyes wander just a bit, both settling just shy of inappropriate.

“I’ve been using that word a lot in the last few hours.” Manx smiled, her eyes promising to make good on that offer. Manx pressed one last quick kiss to her lips.

“Oh! I’m sorry, I didn’t realize you were… busy.” The startled reaction from the doorway brought an instant grin to Birman’s face. She didn’t need to see the face to recognize Omi’s carefully manicured innocence act.

“Never too busy for you, chibi.” Birman turned with a smile, waving him in.

“I’m glad you’re here, too.” Omi had a bright smile for the brunette as he reluctantly interrupted their reunion, offering Birman a quick hug. “And glad in more than one way…” His smile quickly faded. “Uncle’s assistants are here.” He just barely resisted the urge to roll his eyes. “ I sent them downstairs with Sakura to prepare for the evening. “

Manx took a deep breath. Omi looked like he had just eaten week old sushi and was trying to hold it down. “So it begins… Omi, please make sure Birman’s things are sent to my suite.” Manx raised a hand to cut off any words of protest from either of them.

“I wasn’t about to complain.”Birman passed the redhead a definite look of approval.

Omi’s cheeks went a touch pink but he smiled. “I’ll go do that now. I already called the Koneko – they are preparing rooms for - them - now.”

Manx just rubbed a hand over her face and nodded. “Thank you, Omi.”

“Why are we hosting them in our own staff house? Couldn’t the old man put them up at a hotel?” Birman was clearly just as displeased.

“Everything in town is booked. Momoe won’t put up with anything... inappropriate. And it’s only a few days.” Manx touched up her lipstick, straightening her skirt with a few tugs. “Let’s see how bad it is.”

The piercing squeal met Manx and Birman half way down the staircase. Both women sped up their pace to meet the owner of that squeal in the doorway of the women’s quarters. 

Blue ponytails bobbed atop the head of a tiny woman, her schoolgirl attire and much too young-looking face were entirely believable if not for the size of her breasts and the liberal application of makeup. A tall attractive blonde wrapped her arms around the small woman-child’s waist, ready to whisper in her ear when she caught site of their hostesses.

“Oh Red… please tell me you are here for us…” The blonde purred just over the smaller woman’s shoulder, biting lightly at her lower lip.

“I suppose I am… my name is Manx, this is Birman. We manage the club. “ Manx gestured the women inside the dressing room, insisting on their compliance with friendly arm around the blue-haired woman’s shoulder. “There are some things we need to discuss. Immediately.”

“Hera… our Mistresses are here!” The blonde called out as she and her companion made their way to their newly assigned dressing booths.

Birman pulled Manx aside, keeping her voice to a whisper. “He sent THEM?! The man has no couth whatsoever! The floor will end up looking like a convention tonight…”

Manx recognized all four of the women who approached... as would anyone who ever indulged in pornography anywhere in Japan. These four women cornered every single genre, nearly household names for their popularity. The other girls in the room were already whispering among themselves, passing a variety of glances in their direction. Manx extended her hand to greet the leggy brunette who approached.

“Hera, good to see you again.”

The woman shook her hand, using it to pull her into a reluctant hug, eyeing her up a bit too obviously for comfort. “Manx, you are such a horrible liar. But we are very happy to be here. You have such a beautiful resort...”

The look of distaste on Birman’s face slipped out of her control. And it did not go unnoticed.

“… among other things.” Hera let her eyes fall plainly to Manx’s chest before passing a sly glance to the brunette at her side.

“This isn’t a set Hera… cut the crap. Let’s go have a seat in the lounge. Now.” Manx’s tone was all business.

“Oooo... yes Mistress… “ The blonde purred from over her shoulder as they all turned to head for the lounge at the back of the room.

The women made themselves comfortable in the lavish surroundings, Hera taking it upon herself to pour drinks for them all from the small bar.

These women would be a headache at best, a nightmare at their worst. Hera was the nearly retired porn queen at the ancient age of twenty nine, her role in Masafumi Takatori’s studio was transitioning from on screen tart to off screen mentor and talent scout. She assembled this little group for Reiji’s son, teaching them all her tricks and, together, inventing quite a few new ones. These four women were the core of Reiji’s empire and their presence here simply spoke of the elder Takatori’s desperation. Nala, Shayne and Baby – the undisputed queens of all that is sleaze. Together, these four represented everything that was diametrically opposed to what this exclusive private resort was all about. Starting with respect…

“Baby… we do NOT run about yelling, especially about sexual preferences. This is not some Shinjuku nightclub.”

The young women looked as if she had been slapped. “But... but… I love yaoi…”

“Our clients trust our discretion and we show the utmost respect for their preferences. And here, that requires a good deal of respect for our gay clientele… AND staff. We would all appreciate your restraint from further outbursts.” Manx laid down the law before Hera could even offer her a glass of wine.

Shayne slid to Baby’s side, handing her a glass.

“But I saw the prettiest boy, in a kimono. I wasn’t trying to…” Baby sipped at her wine, silencing her own protest as Shayne petted her hair.

The silent Nala approached Birman, handing her a glass as Hera offered one to Manx.

“We know why we are here. I’m sure we can… adjust... to your expectations before the evening’s festivities begin. “ Hera tipped back her glass. “We are all in the same business after all.”

“No. We are not.” Birman quickly corrected her.

“The two of you are the reason I chose this career.” Nala offered as she studied them from over the rim of her sunglasses.

“What we did then is nothing like what we do now. “ Birman countered.

“Shuichi and his high and noble aspirations…” Hera sipped at her wine, then lowered her glass, eyes locking on Birman. “… the bottom line is that we are highly paid entertainers that choose what we will and will not do. Your staff are nothing but glorified whores being paid to fuck the highest bidder. So spare us the attitude… we have all played at being hookers before. We’ll blend in just fine.” Hera’s tone never wavered beyond pleasant, even her small practiced smile failed to betray the intent of her words.

“We are all here for one reason... and it has nothing to do with… this. I suggest everyone take a deep breath and focus on our mutual goal.” Manx stepped in immediately to diffuse the painfully polite conversation.

“You worked with him before… the American?” Nala broke the silence after a quiet moment of wine sipping. All eyes turned to Manx.

“Yes. That was a long time ago. He was nothing but a gentleman. Very professional, on set and off. “

“So is it true then? Is he really as big as he looks on camera?” Shayne’s enthusiasm for the answer was barely veiled.

“Well, if you’re good at your job, you just might find out… “Manx took a big breath in an effort to shore up her patience. She took another sip of her wine then abandoned the glass on the counter.

“I’ll have Sakura stay with you, to bring you up to speed on our standards and expectations. Shuichi has extended his hospitality and has offered you the opportunity to entertain clients at a special rate, should you choose to do so. Hera, I’m familiar with your talents. You will be the only one permitted to utilize our dungeon…”

 Shayne and Baby both groaned in disappointment.

“ … Sakura will give you the tour.” Manx smirked in their direction as she crossed the room to Birman’s side, grabbing her hand in a clear gesture these women would recognize. “If you have any further questions, Sakura can contact Omi, or Birman or I, if need be. Now ladies, have a good evening and behave yourselves. “

Manx and Birman left the women to prepare for their evening. Manx was already decided that Sakura would be receiving a nice, fat bonus for what she was about to subject her to.

“I want to meet the boy in the kimono.” Baby giggled as soon as the redhead disappeared around the corner.

“I’d like Manx to give me a tour of the dungeon.” Shayne added.

“Easy girls…” Hera chided from the bar. She tipped back the remainder of her wine, amused and excited for the night ahead. And her fun would start right now… the sweet young Sakura was much too tempting in her own right. Hera headed out into the dressing room, eager for her tour.

_____________________________________________________

“Guys… GUYS! Ken, could you turn down the music…” Omi wrangled his male staff into a spur of the moment meeting. “Thanks, Ken. Gentlemen, there are a few things we need to go over for tonight.” He finally addressed the room as those gathered settled down.

“Are you going to fill us in on the special guest appearances? We already saw them, ya know…” Yohji chimed in from his personal corner of the overstuffed couch. A few quiet laughs trailed behind him.

“Yes, there are four… actresses… here for the weekend. We will be treating them with all the same respect we treat any other staff member. Especially on the floor…” Omi turned his gaze to Yohji , specifically.

“Hey, come on, you know me better than that. We’ll all make sure the – actresses – feel right at home. You know, I’m quite the thespian myself… maybe we can practice our Shakespeare together…” Again the restrained laughter followed his teasing as well as one well aimed pillow to the face.

“Keep it in your pants, Yohji.” Ken reloaded his right hand with another pillow.

“I’m pretty sure Omi doesn’t want me to do THAT.” The blond shot back as he tucked the pillow into his lap.

“Guys, come on. These ladies are here for a reason. There is an important client visiting tonight.”

“They are rude.” Aya rumbled from the far corner, his low voice easily carrying over the noise of the room. “Our clients won’t tolerate that.”

“Manx has already addressed that. This is their first time in this atmosphere. Manx is making sure they are brought up to speed on our etiquette.” Omi reassured.

“So they are here for one client? I don’t see how that affects us.” Aya shot back, clearly unhappy about the disruption.

“Honestly, we have no idea what this client’s preferences are but he’s a fairly famous – actor – too. It seemed appropriate to invite a few ladies from the same profession. ” Omi’s eyes passed around the room, reading the reactions on the faces of his staff. He wasn’t comfortable lying to them but the truth of it had no place here.

“Oh great, you bring in porn stars for a porn star. Did anyone consider that, maybe this guy might be tired of same old, same old?” Yohji offered .

“Yeah, that’s actually a good point.” Ken agreed with a nod. “If he’s coming here he might want something different… something with more class. Geishas or something.”

“I doubt any of this will affect this side of the clubhouse.  Let’s stay focused. We have full staff on tonight, full bookings and lots of new members.  There are lots of young couples coming here for the first time so there will be plenty to keep us all busy. Just remember to pace yourselves. It’s going to be a long weekend. “Omi summarized . “Any questions?”

“Yeah, one. What do I get if I break my high score?” Yohji taunted, all in good fun.

The conversation murmured around the room. Omi watched as his staff speculated and offered one another their personal wish lists in response to that question. It was a golden opportunity.

“I’ll tell you what. The first man to beat Yohji’s record will get a reward. I’ll sign off on his contract.”

The room went instantly silent. Everyone’s full attention was plastered to the young blond at the front of the room.

“Not only will I sign off but I’ll also pay the balance of the contract in full. Free and clear with freelance options included.” It was an executive decision; one Omi felt confident would pay off in a big way. “Anybody game?”

It was almost a unanimous roar of approval around the room. The competitive banter began almost immediately.

Aya quietly turned and slipped out of the room, his kimono unfurling out behind him with an understated flourish. Omi caught sight of the redhead’s escape, threading his way through the room to catch up to him.

“Aya… wait… what is it?” It was obvious the incentive had had the opposite effect on the redhead.

“It’s not much of an offer for some of us, is it? We have less than a quarter of the clientele than the bisexual staff.” Aya didn’t slow his pace, forcing Omi to hurry after him to hear his words.

“But you have more regular customers and command higher fees. Aya, you do know that you are the highest paid member on staff, don’t you? It’s not always about the quantity…” Omi shot the redhead a mischievous smile. “You have a better shot at breaking Yohji’s record than anyone. Even Yohji. “

Aya stopped to look at Omi. After a moment he turned his back in silent consideration. He closed his eyes with a sigh. “Curious couples, you said?”

“I did. Curious and open minded… to all kinds of new things…” Omi could almost hear the gears turning beneath that long red hair.

Aya just nodded, turning to head for his dressing booth.

_________________________________________________________________

 The use of his Leer jet was yet another extravagance Reiji Takatori had bestowed upon them. Not that it wasn’t appreciated. Brad Crawford appreciated it just as much as all the other thinly veiled bribes the man had, and still was, offering. Reiji knew. He knew that Brad knew his dirty little secrets, the ones his board of directors would never dare to guess at. But he had no idea exactly how much the American did or did not know or what game he was actually playing. It took nearly a week’s worth of polite yet iron fisted resolve to steer the man in the direction Brad was looking for. This extravagant weekend had the potential to answer the nagging questions he could clearly insinuate but come just short of asking in a civilized boardroom full of clueless executives.  

Reiji had built his OH!Tono empire on the blood, sweat and tears of others courtesy of, what little remained of, the Yakuza. They considered the adult entertainment industry as their birthright. Yet, Reiji’s brother seemed to be operating in that industry but outside of their direct control.

 Or anyone’s control.

Internationally.

 KriticsMark was a quiet little empire hosting the world’s most exclusive clientele in lavish yet illicit clubs that just did not seem to exist. Only the wealthiest ever heard tell of these miniature fantasy islands scattered around the globe. Membership was exclusive, coveted and entirely at the discretion of the corporation.

There was a connection there but Brad just could not see it yet. He wouldn’t rape one company without knowing if the other might stab him in the back. There was more there. He was determined to find it. Besides, he was curious on a personal level as well. He had declined their invitation twice now. And, if the rumors were true, he was missing an entire secret society of the best kept adult entertainers in the world.  He’d have three days in which to find out.

The flight from Tokyo was short and uneventful. A car met them on the tarmac as they disembarked, everyone involved as painfully polite as Crawford had expected. The driver dutifully checked in with his employers, giving them an estimated time of arrival as if he were a visiting foreign dignitary. It brought a smirk to his face, as did the beverage offerings in the car. Whiskey, vodka, beer and soda.  It was just the beginning of many amusing stereotypes he looking forward to challenging this weekend.

Beside him, Schuldig was taking in the scenery from the car window, the small towns and rural villages along their route a decided change of pace from the urban sprawl of Tokyo. Farfarello eyed the driver warily each time he picked up his phone for a status update but otherwise relaxed with an arm tossed across a seat. Nagi however, was hunched in his seat, feverishly surfing for something on his phone, nearly pitching it out the window as he lost reception as they neared mountains. This weekend was a mix of business and pleasure for Brad but he expected the rest of them to relax and enjoy it.

“Nagi… put it away. You’re off the clock. ”

“He’ll go into withdraw if he does that.” Schuldig chimed in from over his shoulder.

The boy just sighed heavily as he jammed the phone into his pocket, crossed his arms hard across his chest and slumped down in his seat. He had barely made eye contact with anyone the entire week. And since they boarded the plane he hadn’t said a word.

“Nagi… you okay? “ The concern in Brad’s voice had Farfarello and Schuldig quietly turn their attention to the conversation.

“Yeah. Fine.” He cinched his arms tighter to his chest.

 “You don’t have to do this. You can head back to LA if you want.” Brad offered nonchalantly, keeping all judgment out of his voice. He knew returning to Japan might trigger memories for the teen. While he had a job to focus on he was holding up fine but now that he had time to simply relax, it seemed to be getting to him.

“Right. Schuldig for an entire weekend without an interpreter… that’ll work.”

Schuldig just smirked. The kid could use whatever excuse he liked. “I’m not so sure I’ll be needing words where we’re going… and neither will you for that matter.”

Nagi passed a glare to the redhead that softened into confusion and then concern.

“It will be whatever you want it to be this weekend… “Crawford passed a hard look to Schuldig. “... no pressure. Like I said, whatever you want.” He turned back to Nagi in reassurance.

“Yeah. “ Nagi turned a blank stare out the window. ‘Whatever.”

It was a scenic drive, through quaint towns and verdant mountain passes. They finally came to a stop at a massive steel gate that blocked access to the winding road beyond. The small house to the side of road turned out to be a guard station as two armed men appeared, and recognizing the driver, permitted them through.

The road climbed steadily upward finally opening into a lush courtyard that made the most aesthetic use of the natural surroundings; a natural fountain encompassed by the roughhewn stone driveway, a wide inviting staircase lit by hand carved quartz lanterns leading the way to an unassuming building that seemed to grow directly out of the landscape. It married the spirit of traditional Japanese design with the clean lines and understated simplicity of the postmodern, both inviting and unimposing. A simple stone plaque identified their destination: Katzenhaus Onsen.

 Schuldig broke into a wide grin as they all exited their car, breaking into a laugh. “Subtle… real subtle…”

Crawford had to agree. It took some big balls to be so blatant.

Their car was one of many currently depositing guests, a sea of sportscars, each costing several times more than the average Japanese family’s year salary.  Their driver escorted them up the staircase to the doorman. He and several attendants snapped into immediate action, leaving their other duties to attend to their luggage and further escort them inside.

Schuldig couldn’t restrain his amusement, the wide smirk growing on his face. “Why does something tell me this is above and beyond your typical Japanese hospitality? You’d think you put a gun to his head.”

“He basically did.” Nagi fell in step behind them as Farfarello took up a position just behind them all, silently committing faces and building details to memory.

Brad passed them an amused glance as they passed thru an airy vestibule flanked by duel koi ponds, flowering lotus bobbing just above the surface of smooth black water. The other guests were an eclectic mix of new money and old – sports, movie and music superstars wearing their trophy wives mixed with suited aging businessmen who seemed unsure whether to shake hands and ask for autographs or to be duly mortified at being met at an establishment such as this.  The atmosphere seemed to meld into a cautiously restrained camaraderie since all were essentially in the same predicament. The rules of the club were cast iron and absolute.  Silence was the additional fee to their substantial membership investment.  And the eyes and ears of each and every member ensured this elite secret remained safe.

The vestibule opened into a wide lobby and reception area, elaborate floral displays scenting the room and softening the atmosphere even further. Once again, the staff snapped to their service. There was a small blond boy behind the desk, seemingly orchestrating the effortless ease of this well-seasoned staff. He looked no older than Nagi and that came as a surprise. With a whisper to the girl at his side, she scampered off and he turned to greet them with a wide smile.

“Mr. Crawford…” The boy offered a small bow. “…welcome.  My name is Omi, I am the general manager and I will be glad to address your needs personally this weekend.” The heavily accented English was obviously a challenge for the boy. It was a gracious gesture none the less.

Brad returned the small bow but responded in Japanese to put the boy at ease. “We all understand Japanese – some of us better than others but your gesture is most appreciated.

The boys shoulders noticeably relaxed. “I must apologize. We did not realize you had guests accompanying you this evening. We have arranged a suite for you but…”

Brad held up a hand. “How many rooms?”

“A master and one guest room…”

Brad looked back to his companions, his eyes settling on the youngest. He simply nodded in agreement.

“It will be fine.”

Omi assessed them all for a second, trying to anticipate the need for additional bedding or services. But he stopped himself short of actually staring. Four men, two beds. That was most definitely not a scenario he had anticipated. But certainly not one he couldn’t accommodate.

“Thank you for your understanding, Mr. Crawford. Shall I see you to your suite now?”

“With all due respect, I’d like to see Manx now if it isn’t too much of an inconvenience. Business before pleasure, wouldn’t you agree?” The man’s warm smile and pleasant tone spoke only of the most practiced of social graces. And it put Omi’s teeth on edge.

“Of course… or course. Right this way.” The blonde led them behind the reception desk and down  hallway to a wide oak door. With a small knock he entered, ushering his guests in behind him.

The redhead behind the desk looked up, excused herself from her phone call and stood to greet her guests. Omi quietly closed the door behind them all.

“Brad… it’s been a long time.” She rounded her desk with smile, arms out to greet him with obvious familiarity.

“Akako… or should I say Manx now? “ Brad greeted her halfway with a polite hug and a kiss for her cheek. “I couldn’t guess how long it’s been… you look amazing as always.”

The barest of a blush rose to her cheeks as she coyly dipped her head. She was well aware of his ability to charm, yet, after all this time, she still fell victim to it.  Much to her own dismay. “Flattery has gotten you everywhere, hasn’t it?”

“Well, not everywhere… “He raised her hand to brush a kiss across her knuckles.  Manx dearly wanted to yank her hand away but opted for slowly slipping from his grip, to lead them all to seats near the wide picture window.

“Should we leave you two alone?” Schuldig snarked from over Brad’s shoulder, his Japanese a bit broken and tainted by his lingering German accent.

“My apologies…” Manx approached the redhead with a smile, hand extended. She recognized the redhead immediately but especially his accent. It was a trademark that currently dominated the American adult entertainment industry, making an unlikely male superstar out of the redhead in record time. With just a little of Brad’s help, of course. “I am quite familiar with your work. So glad to meet you Schuldig.”

He took her hand, following Brad’s lead, brushing a slightly less than appropriate kiss across her knuckles as well. “I can see why Brad refuses to talk about you… I would want to keep you to myself as well.”

Omi kept his distance, keeping his nose out this while keeping his ears trained on every word. He offered seats to Farfarello and Nagi. The pale man politely refused but the boy took a solitary seat well away from the heart of the conversation.

“You have definitely been in his company too long.” She teased as she slipped away from him and into the seat at the window.

“This is Nagi, my personal assistant. Farfarello, head of my personal security and, you already know Schuldig. My partner.”

Manx nodded to them all in turn. Omi cataloged the information, carefully listening for the hidden clues most people failed to realize they offered. It was not a leap of logic to conclude that these two men were in business together – that much was obvious. But there was no hint in the statement to imply more despite the requested sleeping arrangements.

“I’m sure you would all like to relax after your busy week… shall we just get to it, then?” Manx opened the dialog with an economy of words.

“Absolutely. I’m here to finish what I started. “Brad was only offering a hint intended for Manx alone.  

Schuldig leaned back in his seat on the couch, crossed his legs and settled in for, what looked like, his favorite spectator sport. The dark gleam of admiration in his eyes gave Omi the hint he had been looking for.

“Why toy with him? Why not just take OH!Tono and be done with it?” Manx’s tone was velvet coated steel that twitched uncomfortably in Omi’s spine. He hid his look of shock at the words well though.

“Because that would be too easy. I arrived at this point too easy. What fun is there in that?” Brad was much too relaxed for this conversation but everything in his demeanor suggested the honesty of his admission. “It was a stroke of luck that this little exercise brought you and I back into the same circle one more time.”

“In the same circle, perhaps, but not in the same conversation.” Manx had assumed this was all about the money, making Reiji sweat so he’d cave in with a large monetary settlement to keep control of his company. Now, she wasn’t so sure. Brad couldn’t still be holding a grudge, could he?  “Your business with OH!Tono will conclude with Reiji. We are simply here to provide some entertain in the meantime.”

“I’m not here to extort your boss, Akako.” Brad chuckled to himself. “In fact, I’m here to recruit his assistance.”

The look of surprise passed between Manx and Omi, a milder version of it skating over Schuldig’s features, as well as Nagi’s.  Brad appreciated them all.