Snake

DIFFERENT

Today was my meet-up with Daichi, but Violet was still on my mind.

After she left my place that night, I sent her a text asking if she was okay but didn't get a response. This morning, I texted about work and got a reply.

When I asked what happened to her that night, I was ignored again.

It was evident that her seeing Emi at my place caused her to be different towards me. I want to not care about Violet's feelings, but I can't. I'm weary she has already left her mark on me.

I walked into my Mr. Zen's office, which is now mine. I left a lot of things the same. It was somewhat comforting.

Violet suddenly walked into my office. Her hair was down, flowing over her chest. She wore a black pencil skirt and blue silk blouse...my eyes were glued to her body, then full glossy lips.

I unintentionally licked mine while staring at how gorgeous she was. My stare was ignored.

"Good morning, Mr. Nishimura. Your work schedule for next week is ready and has been emailed to you. Myers is scheduled to come in at 1:00 p.m. today. I have some beverages and finger foods set up to be delivered for the meeting. I will be on data entry for the next two hours if you need me."

Violet came into my office, then went with no emotion or evidence of how close we were last week. I can't blame her for taking this route, but it kind of sucks.

"Sir, Ito is coming up the elevator."

I gave my security a nod, and they went to escort him to the suite.

The last time I saw Daichi Ito, he had a serious chip on his shoulder. He was released from the covenant, protection, and rights of the Doku Clan.

It was a hard decision, but Daichi was a loose cannon. He didn't take too well to disrespect of any kind. I understood his position but also knew that his way of being was impulsive and destructive.

He didn't know how to pick his battles. It was go all in or go all in...no other way. This was five years ago, and I wondered if he changed for the better.

I instantly sensed his dark energy. It seems to have grown, but it is calmer.

"Hebi," he said as he walked in.

"Sasori."

He looked older, or should I say mature. We shook hands and pulled each other in for an embrace. I was optimistic about our meeting.

"I got news of Sensei Zen. I wanted to see him before his memory declined."

"I understand...thank you for coming."

Once we took our seats, it was like old times. We reminisced about our sessions with Kenji Zen, the punishments, and the fun times.

"You've built your own empire within five years," I said, impressed.

"Three."

"You have done well for yourself, Daichi. You should be proud."

"I am. But I did what I am supposed to do as a man...build, create and multiply."

"So you have children?"

"No, not yet. I haven't found anyone I trust enough to raise my legacy."

"You've always been picky."

Daichi smiled in agreement. "Yes, when it comes to reproducing...you have to be. But I do enjoy practicing."

I laughed, then called Violet to bring us drinks.

"I'm surprised you're not married with a couple of offspring."

"I'm not ready."

"You're afraid."

I chuckled. "Maybe."

Violet walked into my office with a tray of glasses and a bottle of scotch. She placed the tray on my desk. Daichi's energy changed as he stared at her.

"Violet, this is my good friend, Mr. Ito."

She put her hand out for a shake. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Ito."

He stood up and took her hand, placing a kiss on it. "Call me Daichi."

Violet blushed....my brows furrowed.

***

Daichi Ito was handsome, but there was something else about him that felt enticing. I couldn't put my finger on it...his energy was different.

He kissed my hand without breaking eye contact.

"Nice meeting you too, Violet."

"Did you finish the data entry list for the day?" Rin asked.

"Yes, I have."

I knew he didn't care about me doing data entry work. My blushing made him interrupt our greeting.

Walking out of Rin's office, my thoughts were now consumed with Daichi. I touched my other hand, wondering what caused the tingling sensation from his lips.

"Hey, Violet...can we talk?" Emi stood in the doorway of my office.

"Yeah, sure."

She came into my office, shutting the door behind her. I had no problem with her. Emi probably didn't know what happened with myself and Rin.

"How are you doing?"

I smiled. "I'm well and you."

"Good."

There was a pause. Emi looked as if she was searching for what to say.

"My father has been kind of down these past few days. I was wondering if you could come to his house and join us for dinner on Saturday? If you can't..."

"I would love to come."

She sighed in relief. "Oh, thank you. I think seeing you may lift his spirits."

"I do miss him being here."

Emi paused again as her smile slowly went away.

"Is something going on between you and Rin?"

"No, why do you ask?" I showed no emotion.

"I-I was just..."

Knock knock.

I looked at the door. "Come in."

Daichi opened it. "Can I speak to you, Violet?"

Emi's eyes went back and forth between us. His energy made me nervous but turned me on.

"Sure."

He walked towards my desk, ignoring Emi's presence.

"I wanted to ask you out to dinner."

"Really?"

"Yes."

Emi's eyes widened.

"Oh okay."

He gave me his phone to put my number in, then I gave it back.

"I will call you with the place and time."

"Okay."

He gave a soft smile then walked out. Emi and I looked at each other for a few seconds in silence.

She stood up. "Well, now you have someone to bring to dinner with you Saturday."

"What?"

Rin said, standing in the doorway.