Chapter Five: Requesting A Photo Shoot Part Two

Zero was gasping for air, the reason? Simply put, out of all the times. His best pal, buddy, and comrade even decided to become stupid this time around. "Gah! Kaito, let go idiot!" he exclaimed as he was stuck in a chokehold by the arm while his foolish best pal got him in the position where he is the hostage and the foolish Kaito is the nemesis who got him. "Don't struggle, Zero. Just follow my lead and we're getting out of here. Trust me." Kaito instructed wanting to get Zero out of there and maybe he would get that toffee haired girl with him. What! He likes toffee! And that girl's hair had the color bouncing on her head. And damn! He was tempted to run his hand over those beautiful toffee tresses, but the nagging attitude of that girl is a force to be reckon with. "Ruka, what a name for a girl with one fiery attitude."

"I don't necessarily waste my time in idiots like you, but seeing you have something precious that is mine, kindly remove yourself from my presence or face the consequences of your actions." Stated Kaname his tone icy cold.

"Pah! No way bastard, Zero is coming with me." Kaito proclaimed boldly his confidence in waves but for the silver haired inside his hold had a different feeling on the situation.

"Kaito, how many times should I call you an idiot until you fucking listen!" Zero gasped, having a hard time breathing with all the fiasco Kaito is doing.

"Let go of him! Whoever you are!" Aido shouted, instantly clutching at Kaito's arms wanting to take the idiot's hold on Zero.

"Can we all just calm down." Said Takuma ever the peaceful one. He was gazing at Senri hoping for a backup on his side only to meet icy cold blue eyes that could put even the strongest snowstorm to shame. In few moments all the guys excluding Takuma and Seiren who watched calmly since she was waiting for her young master's orders bunched themselves up and crowded Kaito and Zero, resulting to Zero wheezing out just to breathe.

That exact moment was what greeted a shocked Cross and an amused Shizuka. "Oh, my what a scene." Fanning herself, with a smile on her face Shizuka was truly enjoying the display in front of her.

Cross was puzzled at Shizuka's amazed compliment. "May I know what in this display amuse you so, Ms. Hiou." He stated fixing his glasses up.

Shizuka giggled in delight. "Don't you see, that boy there holding Zero is like the black night and your Apollo Elite Prodigy boys are like the princes I want them to be saving a princess from distress!" she said with glee and all the stars dancing around her joyful form that got Cross to sweat drop, he would never understand how a model sees or views the world.

But what can Cross see is that if this become a huge success it will no doubt make the Cross Musical Academy become known again. And aiding him to have fewer paperworks and getting problems out of his way. "If you say so, Ms. Shizuka."

"Enough! Damn it!" Zero scolded ramming Kaito's chest hard using his elbow that let out a grunt from Kaito resulting for Kaito to crouch in pain, now out of his hold. Zero ran for it.

Seeing Zero ran had simultaneously, got all the guys to chase him much to Shizuka's amusement.

"Wait Zero!" Aido yelled, eager to be get Zero away from Kaito.

"Zero, you idiotic shitty pal! Get back here!" With a huff, Kaito quickly scrambled himself up and chased Zero.

"You two stupidity on the run, stop what you're doing." Scolded a very aggravated Kaname who leisurely strode following Aido and Kaito.

Kain sighed, following as well. Not wanting to be caught in trouble because of his troublemaker cousin who can't even cut him some slack out of many mess he had made so far.

Takuma scratched his head, finding the situation all confusing yet amused as well, Zero was really interesting scratch that the silver haired boy was far too pleasing to just let be. It was no wonder Senri was attracted to Zero. In that line of thought, Takuma gazed at Senri, the emotionless blue eyes were hiding a fiery flame inside, yet it seems Senri chose to act upon it this time, which was unheard of. Since Senri had never been active about almost anything. He was calm uninterested, of almost everything. Now, Takuma gazed at his running form wide eyed prompting the green eyed Vice President to chase his bestfriend who day by day in Zero's presence was changing himself to something he doesn't know anymore.

Seiren, to put it mildly was shocked, who wouldn't be when the young master she had respected since the first time she was tasked to be at his side was now chasing a person, and said person was not even female but a male at that! Well, a very handsome male but still. Yet if you look at her, there would be no hint of what she is current feeling on this situation etched on her face. After all, years of training in the military had suck out all the feeling and emotions she would ever show. Seeing that her young master had given no order upon her. She quickly got out of that scene as fast as she got there. Not realizing two pairs of eyes upon her one sakura pink and the other behind glasses that glints with intrigue.

:*:*:*:*:

"How's your butt?" Always blunt to the core, Rima asked Ruka that question. And only a haughty glare was the answer she got from her extremely pissed toffee haired close friend.

"Harassed and horrified." Came the cold as blizzard answer of Ruka as she sighed and opted in answering the question anyway. "If I ever see that smug, punchable, rude, and handsome face of his. I will definitely—" Ruka started, as her aura showed of a dozen purplish black lightning façade where the words "furious" was spelled in capital letters and hundreds of exclamation marks. That prompted a sweat drop expression from her pocky loving orange twin pig tailed haired close friend.

Rima chuckled as a grin formed on her face, for she notice a word that unconsciously slip from Ruka's mouth regarding the stranger that pummeled her to the ground. "Ohh. So you do find him handsome? Hmm.."

Ruka blanched, as she saw Rima's teasing face. "Yes, he's handsome. But his manners are downright the worst that I've ever encountered!" Ruka screeched, blushing furiously as she did so. She can deeply appreciate that stranger's ragged looks and bad boy attitude, too bad the idiot just had to waste that all by being such an ass to her!

Seing Ruka's angry expression had Rima smiling secretly for it seems that very rude stranger is what Ruka needed to get back to who she was once. Energetic and alive instead of the Ruka who glooms and becomes a crybaby every time the name "Kain" is mentioned.

:*:*:*:*:

"Phew." Zero sighed, as he made a dash to get inside his room. Quickly he closed the door and lock it. Relieving a breath as he used the door for a support as he felt his energy quickly going down to the drain. "Shit! How in the world did things become so chaotic?!" Zero couldn't help to voice out.

As of now, he was sure that the raging voices outside are the idiots and stupid friend of his bickering like there is no tomorrow. "Go on! Argue to your heart's content! Just don't push to be in the middle of it!" he thought, not liking the amount of unwanted attention he was getting.

"Zero is supposed to be back to his old school!" He could hear Kaito's enraged shout downstairs.

"My, my, my, it seems you are highly misinformed, Zero's is back in his old school, which is Cross Musical Academy!" Kaname's frustrated voice ringed out, and more of the same thought echoed after that leading for Zero to cover his ears with his hands and exhaustingly lay on his back on the bed. Gazing at the ceiling with such troubled expression. Zero was in trouble that much he knows.

This problem wouldn't have happened if in the first place he wasn't the unfortunate soul that took the letter from the ground just out of curiosity or if he wasn't a coward who transferred to another academy for the sake of keeping himself running from the hard truth…

Zero Kiryu had always had been and loathed to admit that even in the past and up until now his heartstrings had always been strung up and plucked by none other than the narcissistic, smug, arrogant and downright the very cause of all his problems, Kaname Kuran. Might as well admit and not hide it since it is what has been in his thought for all the years since that 'bastard' made it his job in becoming every inch a part of his life. And he would be a hypocrite if he further denies that he doesn't like the way Kaname is trying to hard to keep him by his side.

But why all the denials? Simple dear readers, for let's just say that when the trust is broken it can never be repaired. In Zero's perspective, what they had back then must never be known, said and mended and he was fine with it being nothing but a past that he wanted to be a nonexistent experience in his life…

"My life is so fucked up." Was the last coherent thought of Zero as he opted to closing his eyes, hoping he wouldn't dream of orange afternoon light illuminating two figures in a classroom, one figure laughing, tears, and bet that hurt more than any injury you could ever have encountered.

:*:*:*:*:

Kaname wiped his tired face with his hands, finding the situation up to now to be getting in his way in winning Zero's affection. With just an order to Seiren he had that over bearing Kaiko? Kaibu? Kaete? Heck! Whatever that asshole's name was. He hopes that Kaien will be able to sort out that "problem" away from his hands.

"Takuma" he called that got the attention of his Vice-President to him. Inquiring green eyes met frustrated garnet ones.

"Yes, Kaichou?" Takuma answered, waiting for any requests from Kaname.

"Calm the others, especially Aido. And inform if there had been actions done concerning that "outsider" that came here. I don't want that "filth" getting anywhere near the students" Kaname coldly ordered.

"Outsider? Filth? Near the students? Ohh… Kaichou. Just admit you don't want Zero's friend convince him to go back to Rose Music Academy." Thought Takuma, sending a nod and a big fat smirk to Kaname who frowned because of Takuma's unusual action.

"What are you smiling about?" asked Kaname clearly uncomfortable with his Vice President's stare.

Takuma chuckled. "Nothing, I will be doing what you've requested. I think with all this happening you should check Zero. After all, Zero seems to be in distraught of every thing especially now." Takuma suggested, waiting for any reaction from Kaname.

Kaname sighed, "I think not, more than ever. Zero need some time alone." With that Kaname turned back heading to his office.

Hearing that had got Takuma to be more confused than ever. Had he gotten it all wrong? Kaname seemed to care a great deal about Zero. Was it all his imagination?

"Kaichou." Takuma called.

"Yes?" Kaname answered, gazing back at Takuma over his shoulder.

"I don't know why Zero affects you so, yet why do you shun the idea of even easing his concerns now that he needs it the most? Even a little talk might be what he needs or even your guidance." Takuma stated boldly, he was not fond of being kept too long in the dark especially when it concerns his childhood friend.

"Trust me Takuma, when I say. The last thing Zero would ever need is me trying to explain everything." Kaname answered and continued on his way to his office leaving Takuma that cryptic message.

Heading towards his office, he passed by Zero's room door and his tracks stopped. Staring at that rich walnut door that had the silver designs of leaves and horse design door knob had his garnet eyes turning to a melancholic edge. True he could seduce his audience with his songs and melodies there was even a time that the Stone-Cold Symphony Prince melted because of it. But now, that very same Stone-Cold Symphony has changed and for the life of him he couldn't help but feel guilty that maybe he was after all this time the reason Zero had now a frozen heart.

~Flashback: Two Years Ago, before the letter.

The beautiful melody of "Moonlight Sonata" was playing inside the music room that was now occupied by none other than Melodious King of Seduction. The music resonated throughout the Academy, so it was no wonder why everyone was feeling tranquil even though it was already in the late afternoons were most of the class was done. There was even a whole crowd just outside who had their existence known by their squeals of banshee. It was a miracle itself that the windows of the music room didn't cracked with the amount of screech they had done. It was even funny that in the crowd they were even a mix of girls and boys, all with love hearts on their eyes.

Yet the brunette did not even pay heed to the crowd that was continuously gathering, his eyes were focused on the view outside as he let his fingers play on every note. Confident, on the very fact that he could play this music with his eyes elsewhere. He had known this piece by heart and mind. With a one last play on the note, he ended his performance. He could hear the thousand of applause and like second nature he smiled good naturedly to his just gathered audience. And as quickly they gathered it was the same as they dispersed and head on their way.

Seeing that there were no more onlookers. Kaname sighed in relief. Contrary to the everyone's belief he hated the attention he was getting. And frankly, his world was just bleak and if there was one color to describe it, it would be grey. Letting his thoughts wander on that subject had Kaname finding himself to be in campus grounds. Grey, yup that would be the way he views his world. Many would think that he had it all that if God gave luck to the mortals he would be in the first row. But it was not like that, his life wasn't all rainbows and sprinkles. In truth, the great Melodious King of Seduction was full of paranoia. Who wouldn't be? Being the only heir of the Kurans had many wanting to get him, seduce him and hurt him. One case of that would be that when he was just a baby, his father had scavenged all security personnel just to find him for the moment his beautiful Juri brought him to the world. A kidnapper playing doctor was the one who kidnapped his baby self. It was fine and all since he was quickly found, and the kidnapper apprehended by the police. Then five years later another kidnapping case as he was taken from his school and pushed to a car and yet again he was saved. Then nine years later, he was kidnapped again but for a different reason and mind you it was a woman who did it unlike the other times. And it was to make sure that young as he was, he would agree to marrying said woman and yet again he was saved.

Now, in his sixteen years in this life he has. He can't help but think he was a trouble magnet. Because of that every person that he would interact with would seem dull and he would just put on a fake smile and they will be happy. Save for his family and Takuma he could not relate to anyone else. Still he could not find the connection he wanted no matter what. It was just an empty blank sheet with no notes to make it alive or beat. Sighing for the umpteenth time, Kaname closed his eyes, if his life would remain like this with no color beside the dull grey, he would choose to blind and have darkness surround him.

*violin playing*

"Hmm." Hearing that sound had Kaname opening his eyes, his heart pumping in ways it had never done. The force had him shock, making his entire dull world quake. In a moment he was unconsciously following that sound letting its chords lead him. Finding that as he get closer to the sounds the more his senses heightened bit by bit he finds the once black roses turning red, the grass turning green. As he was nearing the sakura trees his heart made more pumps just to shake him up even more. Stopping on the very edge of the main sakura tree he was awestruck! For at the very center beneath main sakura tree and surrounded by all the fallen pink blossoms was the very creator of that colorful music.

Short silver hair dancing with the wind coupled with the pink blossoms. Eyes closed that was framed by such long eyelashes that was equally matched by the unique color of the musician's hair. Who was this person? Judging by the uniform, it was a male student that was just the same with his. So, this person is also one of the Apollo Elite Prodigy? Yet for the life of him, he had not seen anyone so unique, so wonderful, so just so dare he say it? Beautiful beyond compare…

This beautiful person kept on electrifying his soul as the note got even higher that it has ever done. He was rooted on that spot and now he had himself seated beneath one of the sakura tree, listening to the very music that has cracked his dull world. Everything was now bright and vibrant. His garnet eyes shone as the silver haired continued to play.

He could stay forever there just watching and listening to this wonderful silver haired musician. Yet that moment ended when the silver haired stopped. Only to make Kaname's entire grey world vanish and be colored as the mysterious silver haired opened his eyes to reveal heart clenching, soul binding, and blinding lilac eyes that shone like the brilliant amethyst. As he was about to stand and talk to the very person that shook him to the core, he never had the chance to because.

"Zero!" Kaname was even more shocked as he saw his younger sister, Yuki running towards the silver haired beauty now he has known to be Zero, thanks to his sister's call towards the silverette.

"Tsk.." he heard Zero.

"Did you just tsked at me?! You're such a jerk, Zero!" Kaname watched, amused at his sister's screech.

"Geez, you're so loud. Yuki! Why are you here anyway? I though you were with Ichiru." Zero asked, with irritation. Hearing that question, Kaname saw his sister blush prettily, that got his sister complex on, who was this Ichiru person cling to his pure, sweet, and innocent sister?

"Well, I was with your younger twin. But then, Cross Oji-san called me to come find you." Yuki answered.

"And it didn't occur to you to just let my younger twin brother do the errand for you?" Zero sweat dropped at Yuki's naivety.

"But I was the Cross oji-san tasked, not Ichi-kun." Yuki reasoned, that earned her a teasing smirk from Zero.

"I see. Can't have Ichi-kun doing it right since he's precious to you." Zero said in a sing song voice that got Yuki to blush ten time redder.

"Shut it! Zero. Just head to Cross Oji-san's office already!" Yuki glared yet that did not deter Zero from smirking even more.

"Why should I?" Zero continued to tease Yuki. Much to Yuki's frustration on the silverette.

"Ugh. Why can't you just do it? Zero." Yuki stomped her foot, making Kaname see for the first time his younger sister acting so childish. "Ichi-kun would certainly do it already."

"Of course, Ichi-kun would, but sad to say Yuki, I'm not Ichi-kun." Zero smirked at the irritated face Yuki was showing to him.

"No wonder, you're the Stone-Cold Symphony Prince." Yuki teased back and she was giggling as she was able to rouse an irritated look from Zero. Hearing that name got Kaname to be exceptionally floored to the bone. This silverette beauty was the Stone-Cold Symphony Prince?! the very person that made a legend in freezing the crowd with his music.

"I really hate that name." Zero growled.

Yuki snickered, "Can't be helped. You're known for that."

Kaname watched on, hiding behind the trees and glad that the two was so immersed in their conversation that they did not even notice his presence and he hopes they never will. It would be embarrassing if his younger sister found out he was eavesdropping on their talk even if it was just purely coincidental.

"I know. But before I go see that blonde idiot, did he say anything about what he wants to talk about with me?" Zero questioned that stopped Yuki's snicker.

"Oh?! He said nothing, but I bet it's for the 22nd Musical Tournament! You have always won in the Violinist division. So, I'm sure it's about that." Yuki said all hyped up. "After all, no one can make a whole concert turn into a blizzard other than you Zero." Yuki matched it with a giggle.

"Whatever. Come on, let's go and find out for clarity what that baka of a chairman wants to talk about." Zero shrugged, putting his violin back inside the case then carrying it.

"Hey! Zero wait!" Yuki called, seeing Zero walking away.

"Better hurry up, Yuki. You wouldn't want to keep your precious Ichi-kun waiting!" Zero shouted, over his shoulder watching Yuki trying to match his long strides.

"Shut it! Zero and slow down, will you?!" Yuki demanded.

"Not my fault, you're short legged. Yuki!" Zero answered, earning him many screech of asshole, jerk, and meanie from one furious Yuki Kuran.

Kaname got out of his hiding with a smile on his face watching his younger sister bicker with his now important person. His world has now changed, never dull, and only bright because of that silverette beauty.

:*:*:*:*:

So, it is no surprise he was now being looked strangely by his younger sister with a frown and tilted head. All because he wanted to inquire about a certain silver haired violinist.

"Huh? Zero? How come you don't know him onii-sama? He was with you to all the classes. His full name is Zero Kiryu, have you not have heard of him? That's weird even for you, onii-sama." Yuki giggled. "The Kiryus after all is one of the influential families in the music circle."

"Ah. I see. Thank you, Yuki" he smiled, patting her sister's head earning him another giggle from her.

"Onii-sama. Stop doing that. I'm a teen now as well you know that."

"Yes, but you're still my little sister in my eyes." Yuki smiled, she was lucky to have such a kind big brother and caring at that.

"But, why the sudden interest on Zero, onii-san?" Yuki couldn't help but asked, she was curious on the sudden intrigue of her older brother to Zero.

"Nothing for you to worry about, Yuki." He let out his dashing smile, that quickly banished any more of Yuki's curious thoughts thinking her onii-sama would just be asking out of curiosity as well.

"Oh. Okay onii-sama. I will get going now." Yuki declared as she heads off to her friends namely Rima and Ruka of whom was staring at him with adoration. One of which he blatantly ignored.

It was three days later, he encountered Zero. But he was left confounded and puzzled to a fault as he was only left with a glare and a phrase of "leave me the hell alone." Stated at him coldly when he tried to approach Zero. Another day and he tried again only to be ignored yet again, it was then he realized, Zero was purposely avoiding him. The more that Zero didn't give his attention the more he was growing to liking the silverette. In all honesty, he wanted to befriend the grumpy violinist but, how can he? When Zero himself doesn't want to interact with him? He was reaching his patience limit for during those times, a darker thought was swarming in his mind, one of which includes ravishing Zero whether he like it or not. And he above all was shock by the very idea. All his life, he had never been attracted by anyone. Sure, thousands even billions had lined up to have is attention men and women alike. It even got to the point that Takuma called his lower to be something that has no morals and Takuma was lucky enough to be considered his brother or that smiling childhood friend of his would probably not leave unscathed with that comment. And now he was stuck to hiding behind lockers like an old perverted stalker as he watched Zero opening his lockers and taking some notebooks from it.

Releasing a breath, he gone out from his hiding spot and confronted the silverette. "Hey!"

"If you are smart, you better leave me alone. And never come near me again." Came the icy cold deadpanned tone of the silverette who didn't even look at him while saying that, far too busy with checking his books.

"But- "he started, only to be shrugged off by Zero as the silverette head on his way not looking back.

:*:*:*:*:

A guffaw of laughter was heard, and it didn't help in the building irritation that was near in bursting up from Kaname. He glared at the very person that was creating it and it was his very own uncle Rido Kuran.

"God, I just can't- buwahahhahahahhahahaha!" Rido started only to start laughing again at the middle of it. "I'm sorry, dear boy. B-bu-but hahahaha, This i-is ju-sjust hilarious!"

Kaname crossed his arms over his chest, not pleased by his uncle's reaction to his tale about Zero. He was at his uncle's mansion living room when it comes to problems, he finds himself sharing it to his uncle. True, Rido was famously known as the "black sheep" of the Kuran family. But in reality, Rido was the most realistic of all the Kurans. His uncle was down to earth and would have the greatest advice but the downside would be that sometimes his uncle could be a downright asshole in his own right. And Rido was being exactly like that…

"Alright, enough already, haven't you laugh enough!" Kaname gritted, stress marks obviously bulging at the top of his head. The laughter died down as Rido fixed his gaze upon him for a moment only to laugh again. Kaname sighed in frustration, it seems his uncle would not be going back to his sanity for a while…

~After two hours of laughs~

"Alright, so you're saying that this "Zero" fellow is not even interested in yo—u, Pfft!" Rido started only to let out a near chuckle sound which he quickly amended by coughing, so to not aggravate his beloved nephew more.

"Yes." Kaname sullenly admitted, his head down in shame. Being able to see this new side of his nephew had Rido becoming even more worried, it wasn't everyday Kaname would come to him looking all defeated and vulnerable.

"Whoa, don't show me that downtrodden expression. Kam." Kaname let out a small smile, in hearing his uncle name call on him. Among their family, his uncle Rido was the only one to call him that and it only started when he was young boy, he would take a camera and play with it, leading to Rido's amusement. "Hahahahaha, Did you see that, Haruka and Juri? Hahaha, little Kaname likes the camera, ahahaha. That's what I'll call your mini me Haruka! Kam! Get it? He loves to play with the camera and his name is Kaname, so ironic! I'll just take out the an and e. And he will now be known as Kam, my nephew who loves the camera!" Kaname could still remember the frown on his mother's face and the boisterous laugh of his father and uncle as they shared on the joke.

Years had come to pass, and that name call of his was forgotten and never said again. Well, except for his dear uncle who was adamant in calling him that. Not that he minds it, he was already used to it anyway.

"Kam, raised your head up. Remember our family's words?" Rido asked, trying to motivate Kaname.

"No one has the power to say no to a Kuran. The Kurans always get what they want." Uncle and nephew simultaneously recited. That saying has been in their family for generations, starting from their very ancestor whose name was the same with Kaname's name.

"Good, I thought you had forgotten that. The way I see it, every time you sulked in not being able to get that boy's attention. The more you're letting our family's word be in vain. Don't settle for your mother's family Hinadagi's words of "Be virtuous and you shall reap what you sow." Because I tell you those are the words are for the pathetic." Rido deadpanned to Kaname, earning him a shocked look from his nephew. But then, remembering Juri's fury had Rido blanching and letting out a cough. "Don't tell your mother I said that. Your mother may look like a fragile thing that couldn't hurt a fly but there's a reason why she is known to be the "Iron Maiden" back in her days."

"Ohh? It piques my interest uncle, you had once said that Juri was supposed to be for you. There was even talks that the great Kuran brothers were fighting for my mother's hand back then." Kaname opened the topic, wanting to at least know. His garnet eyes widen at the horrified expression his uncle showed him.

"Me? Fuck no! I wouldn't dare even get near your mother! It was Haruka who was the most foolish to even dare get near her! Let alone date her!" Kaname chuckled at his uncle's reaction.

"Let's stop this topic. I don't want to have any more Jurightmares making me lose my sleep." Rido requested, holding up a hand as his signal to stop Kaname from asking more about his experience on his sister in law. "So, does this "Zero" of yours has a last name?" Rido asked quoting Zero's name as he settled himself on delving back to his newspaper which what he was reading when Kaname suddenly barged in with this problem of his.

"Kiryu." Kaname answered with a sigh. Hating the fact, that only that silverette's first name and last name was all he knew. He should have known much more. Like what's Zero's favorite color, his favorite foods, his hobbies, his arts, his dreams in life, damn it he doesn't even know the silverette's phone number! Uggh! This has never happened to him before, most of the time may it be a male or female, with just a wink he would have got a number and a good lay. But with Zero his just stuck in level zero no pun intended.

"Come again? I thought you just said, Kiryu." Rido asked his knuckles white from his tight hold on the newspaper that got Kaname to be confused on his uncle's actions.

"Yes, I just did. Kiryu is Zero's last name."

"Kiryu, as in the one of the most influential Kiryu in the Music Circle?" Rido inquired, now it was obvious his newspaper was shaking.

"Yes!" Kaname was troubled with his uncle's antics. What was the problem with the Kiryu name.

Rido folded his newspaper and directly gaze through Kaname's eyes. "Kam. The answer is simple. Give up, that boy's not worth it." With those words Rido stood up and head out of the living room and head for his study.

"That's it! What's even the use of our family's words. If you're advice for me is to just give up!" Kaname shouted following behind his uncle. Rido's steps was clacking very hard on the marble floor as he head upstairs wanting to get away from his nephew with no explanation about his actions. "Come on! Uncle you can't be serious! That's your big advice? To just give up!" Kaname snapped as he continued to rouse a reason on his uncle's sudden behavior.

Rido shook his head as he stopped, glaring he turned back and point his folded newspaper stick to Kaname who was just behind him. "Kaname, you could have anyone. Why did you even set your sights on a Kiryu? Honestly! I don't even care if it's male or female as long as it is not a Kiryu!" Rido shouted, turning suddenly into a madman with all his hands messing up his perfect hair.

"What's wrong with the Kiryus?" Kaname calmly asked.

"Kam, the Kiryu's are hot tempered as in volcano hot! And it does not even help that this family's words is "Shoot, where it hurts." Which just fucking means that mess with them and they pay back with a huge amount of what you've done with them as well. And do you know who Rei Kiryu's wife is? Do you?! Do you?!" Kaname watched as Rido looked frantic.

"I think it's—"

"Ichika Hio! That's who! And the word of the Hios? "Go over the line and you'll get a frostbite." And I tell you, Kam. I've been a victim of that frostbite over and over. Shizuka is a prime example of that!" Rido continued, disrupting Kaname's say back then.

"You're ex-wife?" Kaname asked with a puzzled look, it was not a hidden fact that his uncle was still stuck up on the gorgeous iconic model Shizuka Hio. And if that's the case then that means. Zero is related to his uncle's ex-wife.

"Yes! My goddamn ex-wife! Kam! And look where I am now? I got caught in her frostbite and look at me now. I'm like a dog in heat craving her attention and where is that pretty wife of mine? Oh, just working her way up to be the most divorced woman in the century, a woman who can't even stick to one. And let me tell you Kam! The whole society thinks once "the" Shizuka Hio divorce you, it means you're fly is not big enough for a Shizuka Hio. I've never been humiliated in my whole life! And it's not even true, she loved my "big friend" , she moaned hard because of it, she reach heaven because of it, and fuck how she slurped, drank and savor every piece of my "big friend". Oh, we got it going on every fucking day of the two weeks in our marriage full of hot and steamy sex. My biggest mistake would be that in the fourteenth day I slept off from too much pleasure. And the next day? A fucking annulment papers is shoved into my face! Ohh, but remember Kam! Remember this! She was the one who filed for a divorce! Not me!" Rido ranted, his mismatched eyes turning to slits of ferocity and anger. While he stomps inside his study opening its doors with a loud bang!

"Calm down, uncle." Kaname soothed.

"That devil woman!" Rido shouted, hearing Kaname's words. Rido slumped exhaustedly on his study chair made of leather. His mismatched eyes full of concern as it settled on to Kaname. "She is a temptress Kam and she ruined more than I care to admit. And in the end, I'm still trying to get her back. I love Shizuka. Kam. And I still do, I'm sure even if time continued to spin I will keep on loving her. She's one of a kind." Stated Rido in a blissful sigh tinged with regret.

Kaname felt the sincerity of his uncle's words. Hopefully, Shizuka may see how his uncle loved her so someday.

"And that's even more reason, I want you to give up and stay away from that Kiryu boy. This "Zero" is the combination of a Kiryu and a Hio. Trust me, Kam you don't want to become like me." Getting a cigar from his case, Rido lighted it up with his lighter, releasing a smoke. "Shizuka, she- awaken something in me. Something dark and possessive. That led me to be a bigger fool. Hell! whenever I see her all I want to do is ravish her then and there. So, that's my advice Kam. A Hio did this to me, what more if it's both a Kiryu and Hio. I doubt you could stay calm and not let the beasts inside us awaken just because of their unique violet eyes, silver hair and beguiling appeal. No, Kam. You must never ever be like me."

"And what if I still want Zero?" Kaname asked in a calm stoic voice, garnet eyes daringly looking at Rido's mismatched eyes.

"Then, tough luck. I'm too late to save you. And you're even a bigger fool than I will ever be." Rido answered with a smirk, his mismatched alighting with mischief. "How about this, dear nephew. Let's make your desire even more fun. I bet that you wouldn't even get that Kiryu slash Hio boy to even love you the way you wanted it to."

Kaname let out a devious smirk. "And what's the stakes uncle?"

"Simple, if you win I will do all of your mother's bidding for a year. Provided, that you would record every piece of progress you made. " Rido answered that got Kaname smirk to even get wider.

"You hate my mother's chores, especially if it's about charity, voluntary works and special events in the family." Kaname reminded.

"All the more, you would want to see your uncle being bossed around by your mother now, don't you?" Rido chuckled, as he once again smoked from his cigar.

"Amusing, it might be to see that. Why don't you state what you'll get if I lost?" Garnet eyes shone inquisitively as Rido showed him a sad smile.

"Kaname, I don't need to. For you once you lost. I guarantee even the very person you were once will be gone replaced by something else. The only joy I'll get on that outcome would be I get to tell you "I told you so." And the very notion, I will no longer be the only one who's insane for love."

"That will never happen to me." Kaname stated with confidence.

"Careful." Rido warned, his mismatched eyes challenging. "Don't speak too soon. Kam. When you don't even know what kind of shit, fate will throw at you."

"Well, thank you for the advice. Uncle. I better go now." Kaname stated bidding goodbye to his now melancholic uncle.

"Of course, Kam. Remember every piece of progress you made must be recorded.For me to believe it.

Kaname nodded, leaving with his head held high, thinking that such thing would be easy. Little did he know, making that bet with his uncle would be the reason that would crash the very precious thing he had ever had in his whole life.

:*:*:*:*:

~After the Pine Incident~

Kaname was in the most joyful he would ever be. Zero also felt the same thing he felt! There were a lot of denials on Zero's part but that did not deter him one bit. After all, it was Zero who first give him the way to the silverette's heart. Imagine his surprise one week ago just after his discussion with his uncle, he found a letter inside his locker stating to head to the sakura trees. He thought of it as a scam or prank but bless all the divinity above! It was Zero all along who was there, who was leaving another letter on the ground for him to read! It was the opening he waited for! And he relished on the feeling that even if he comes off annoying, Zero has let him in bit by bit in his world.

He couldn't believe it! It seems his family's words were true and even his mother's as well. For it took every ounce of patience on his part to not just have Zero like an animal. Though yesterday, he just cracked, those swollen pink lips, pink cheeks, and fiery lilac eyes. He was really now infatuated in seeing that expression on Zero's face and he reveled on the feeling he was the reason for it.

"Bastard, you're thinking of perverted thoughts again." Kaname smiled, hearing his beloved silverette's voice as Zero passed by him. But he clasped on to Zero's hand, effectively stopping Zero.

"Hmm. And how would you know that Zero.?" He teased, smiling wider as he saw pink tint slowly coloring Zero's pale cheeks.

"Idiot! You were smiling like a joker and your eyes are just too bright even more so, when you're looking at me. And it's creeping me out!" Zero snapped at him trying to get his hand out from Kaname's grip.

Kaname chuckled, using his hold on Zero arm as a leverage he pulled the silverette flushed to his body. His lips closing on the rapidly reddening ear of the silverette. "Oh? I didn't know you watched me that closely. Zero." He whispered sensually, that made Zero fluster and sputtered on his retorts.

"Arr-oo—gant—piece—of-shit! No-t eve-ry thing- is- abou—t you." Zero struggled, not liking the closeness they had. To the silverette's dismay, Kaname cuddled him even more tight, leading for Zero to sigh in defeat and let Kaname hug him. Truth be told, Kaname was growing into him and Zero was afraid of the feelings Kaname was stirring inside him.

Kaname embraced Zero with a goofy smile on his face. He was extremely happy, for he now embraces the very person who gave color to his dull world.

:*:*:*:*:

The melodies of "Moonlight Sonata" ringed yet again in the music room. As usual a crowd was gathered outside of it. Yet the crowd was even more admiring the spectacle in front of them. The music was great, and the crowd was more in awe of the synchronized melody of piano and violin together. No one in the crowd had any idea who was that silver haired violinist only that he was just equally dashingly handsome with the Melodious King of Seduction, even more so as the duo played together. Eyes locked on each other like they were in their own world.

There was once a time Kaname's eyes would look outside letting his fingers play, now his music had more vibrancy, more light tone and more life. Kaname had never felt so overzealous in his music before, gazing lovingly at Zero's lilac eyes which also gazed at him with equal adoration. It was the missing connection in his life. A moment where no words was needed only the beautiful song of love.

It was a wonderful moment, yet Kaname was fully aware of the camera hidden on his school's badge, recording the whole events that started from the beginning. Oh, how he was so focused on this joyful bliss yet entirely stuck on a fix of a bet made by his uncle.

:*:*:*:*:

"Well, my dear nephew. You did it. You won the bet. I will certainly go and try my best not to give your mother a pissed look on her face while I do those mediocre stuff, she loves to torture me." Rido gave out a boisterous laugh, while he watched every scene on his nephew's phone. Yup! He was insane to even ask it from his nephew. But Kaname did not even disappoint.

"Stop watching it already, uncle." Kaname chastised, taking the Iphone from his uncle. The two of them were inside of the Apollo Elite's Classroom and alone for it was already dismissal time and the students was already leaving the school grounds and heading to their respective dormitories.

"I've got to hand it to you, Kam. You never did fail in anything. Was your precious Zero that great? Was he all you hope for? Hahaha. You made it look easy to just gain that silverette's trust and love Kam. Why those lilac eyes was just full of love for you, especially when you pinned him on the pine tree! That was just fantastic!" Rido chuckled, what he would give for Shizuka to see how her favorite nephew "Zero" was putty in the hands of his very own nephew as well. Oh, the irony.

"Uncle." Kaname called in a cold voice not liking, Rido making fun of Zero.

"Alright, I'll stop. Kam. But that's was great! I would expect no less from my handsome nephew after all. You get another point in your cards of beauties and it's a Kiryu slash Hio no less!" Rido continued, having too much fun in his nephew's achievement.

"Uncle, alright it was all I hope for and it was freaking great, but-"

*Crash* *Plag* *Plag*

Both uncle and nephew turn to the sound. Only to have mismatched eyes lighting with guilt and garnet eyes wide with shock and regret. Kaname paled as he saw on the opened doorway of the room was none other than Zero's pained face , the silverette's books and notebooks lay forgotten on the floor or in disarray. Zero's face morphed into anguish as he took off a run hating the very face that he was played and use for amusement.

"Wait, Zero! I can explain!" Kaname shouted, chasing after the silverette violinist, leaving a guilty Rido behind.

Kaname was able to catch up with Zero. He took hold of the silverette wrist but it was not an easy feat as Zero struggled and pulled his wrist. "Zero please, listen to me. It's not—" Kaname tried to explain but it was just futile, for a second he was just staring at Zero's back. But then—

*Smack*

Kaname stepped backwards as he felt his nose bleed from the punch Zero delivered to him, that got him to releasing his grip on Zero's wrist. "Zero, I know you're hurt—"

"Was it fun?" Kaname heard Zero's quivering voice, he could see Zero's form shaking. Kaname chastised himself, he should not have agreed to the bet, he should not have let his uncle egged him on. But it was too late, now that he is now faced with the consequences of his poor decisions.

"Zero."

"Was it what you hoped for?" By now Zero was gritting his teeth in anger and shame.

"Zero, please." Kaname begged, he hated that broken voice, he was now hearing coming out of Zero.

"Was I that great? Was it fun playing with my heart like that?"

Kaname felt his heart stripped, as the very questions his uncle asked, a while ago was now used against him. "Zero, please stop. Listen-" he requested, holding on to Zero's shoulder only to be frozen in place as he saw one drop of tear shimmering on the once brilliant lilac eyes now only lighting with a cold glaze. The tear dropped and hit the ground in a quiet pint. But Kaname knew he was trapped, in the very frost bite his uncle warned. Zero pushed Kaname away form him. Cold and emotionless lilac eyes staring straight at pleading tearful garnet ones. Gone was all the love and adoration only hard frozen empty shell remained.

"I hate you, Kuran Kaname." Zero stated, with no remorse. And turn his back on Kaname.

"Zero, please listen—" Kaname insisted, yet found himself stuck in his position as the silverette ignored him completely. Kaname wanted to chase Zero again but what would he say? What would he explain? For in the end, it was his choice to enter in a bet. In all his life, Kaname lost Zero due to his arrogance, wanting to prove to his uncle Rido he wouldn't be like him, when all along he was becoming just like his uncle. He was warned but he didn't listen. And now here's the consequences.

:*:*:*:*:

Kaname believed Zero would come around and he started his day on finding Zero, after all the 22nd Musical Tournament was just a week away. He was optimistic that it would work out. Yet once again he was wrong as he saw in his desk the signed transferred papers of one Zero Kiryu to Rose Music Academy. Clenching the damn paper, his garnet eyes let out a barrage of tears as his fisted hands turned white by the force. His whole body shaking in contempt, in regret, in guilt, in every goddamn heart wrenching word fitting for an asshole like him. He was known to be the most intelligent and now he was the stupidest idiot who lived. If he even followed him that day or never let his pride get to him. He could have at least said to Zero that he loves him so much. And he was regretting ever betting or playing on his heart.

"Shoot, where it hurts. Go over the line and you'll get a frostbite" Kaname said in a mantra repeatedly as his tears overflow and the sun was slowly blanketed by the clouds. Covering Kaname in a dull grey color. He has lost his precious one that gave color to his dull world. Now, the grey was back and the only one who could light it up has left him.

Crumpled papers still clenched in his hands, Kaname swore. "I'll let you be free for a time Zero. But I will always get you back whether you like it or not." His garnet eyes darkened, glinting a feral light. Another Kuran's beast was awakened by another Hio yet a Kiryu at the same time…

~End Flashback~

"Shoot, where it hurts. Go over the line and you'll get a frostbite." Kaname whispered, gazing at Zero's room door for a moment then continuing his way towards his office and room as well.

:*:*:*:*:*:

"Ah, Yagari! My old friend! What brings you here?" Kaien exclaimed, joyfully. Yet surprised at the sudden visit. "What can I do for you? Oh, is this about my proposal for you to come work in my Academy?" Kaien asked.

"How can I answer if you continue to ask?" Yagari, always direct to the point snapped at Kaien, instantly Yagari was now in the presence of a crying Kaien.

"Yagi-chan! Don't be so mean huhuhuhu!" Yagari tsked, irritated at Kaien's overreactions.

"I'm only here, because "this" idiot wants to enroll here!" Yagari stated, pointing to a pissed Kaito who was lounging on the sofa.

"Oh. Well. That could be arranged." Kaien answered, back in his serious mood.

"Fuck! I don't want to enroll here, I want you to transfer Zero back to Rose Music Academy!" Kaito yelled, yet quickly shut up for he was fixated by Kaien's sharp eyes that was even more intimidating due to his glasses that would just shine whenever Kaied did it.

"Hmm. Yagari, I will accept this predicament only if you teach here."

"You really just want me to be here, don't you?" Yagari asked, frustration obvious in his voice.

"Why of course, I want not only a student, I also want a teacher as well." Kaien smiled, mischievously. "And yes, I want you right by my side." Kaien said, his meaning was obvious for Kaito who paled at the message behind it. Looking disbelievingly at the two men in front of him.

"Fine, I'll transfer. Here's all the papers you need." Yagari nonchalantly replied, handing all the needed papers to Kaien. And Kaito was outright even more floored as he realized, how oblivious his dark-haired sensei is.

Kaien sighed, after all this time. Yagari would never understand what he meant or what he feels for this ignorant old friend of his. It was sad for, he will be forever stuck on the friendzone, Yagari made. His heart was stabbed many times as he was forced to watch him wait on the altar which such adoring smile to that bitch in white with a big front. While he was at his side, playing the role of best man instead of being the one to say "I object!" but as fate would have it, Yagari was now a widow man, free again. Maybe this time, it was a sign that he might correct and become brave in saying that he had always wanted to cross over that friendzone line. Things were starting to revolve again, the moment Zero came back. Now that Yagari was here, he will use all his time in making this ignorant man how the right person for him was always at his side all this time.

:*:*:*:*:*:

"Ehhhhhhhhh!" Yuki was shocked for she had just heard "the" Shizuka Hio asking her to turn Zero to the princess that Shizuka needed for the Project.

"Please, Yuki-chan. Can you do it?" Shizuka asked, sakura pink eyes blinking innocently.

"But, I'm just a student. Why not let the professionals do it?" Yuki asked, for sure Shizuka would know many people who are great in totally turning Zero to something so feminine. It was done before, so why the change?

"Yuki-chan. Zero was just a little boy back then, so easy to manipulate." Yuki shivered in fear as she saw how Shizuka looked like a manipulating witch. "But now, he's a big boy. He will not bow down so easily, even if he relented in doing it. I'm sure he will do something to get out of this situation. I bet a familiar face will help."

"Oh, okay. But I can't do it alone." Yuki requested.

"Understood, do you have anyone in mind?" Shizuka implored with a smile.

"Yes, I will just need two of my best pals to help me." Yuki answered, already planning to ask Ruka and Rima to help her. No doubt, they would say yes to dressing up an unwilling target. The three of the were sadistic in that regard.

"Very good, I expect the best from you and your friends. Yuki-chan." Shizuka smiled prettily, liking how the preparations for the photoshoot was coming along. Now all that is left to know who was that boy that almost choked her nephew. He was absolutely perfect to be the villain on this project. She felt excitement all over on that prospect!

:*:*:*:*:*:

"That punk! I was swear I'll throttle him, next time I see him!" Kain heard his cousin Aido fuming about Zero's best friend's sudden visit. He sighed, as they both decided to take a stroll for awhile on campus grounds. Frankly, Kain thought Aido needed it, his blonde cousin hadn't shut up ever since the fiasco hours ago.

"I mean—" Aido started but realized, Kain stopped in walking with him, he saw how Kain stiffen and as he followed where Kain was looking he saw Rima and Ruka in front of them.

Rima was calmly at Ruka's side. Yet the toffee haired girl was obviously fidgeting. Without a word Kain was already turning his back, he didn't want Ruka to know that he was still hung over the past by not being able to speak to her normally. But Ruka had enough of all the guilt that had pent up within her.

"Wait, Kain." Ruka called, thankful her voice did not crack. Taking a deep breath, Kain faced Ruka, his heart thumping nervously.

"Can I talk to you? Even for just a moment, please." Kain saw the desperate shine on Ruka's eyes and found he couldn't say no. He hopes this time whatever Ruka says will set him free from the chain that said person inflicted upon him.

Aido and Rima watched calmly as the two left to a private place to talk. "Finally." Aido and Rima voiced out at the same time, praying this time it was going to be fine between the two.