Shades Of Pearl (GenMui) - Book 2

20

Muichiro and Genya laid in bed all cuddled up, the hotel television in front of them to light up the room. They weren't particularly invested in what played on the screen, more so distracted by the presence of each other. Reasonably so, as only moments prior, they'd begun to harbor a feeling so significant it lingered. It would only continue to do so.

Even then that the scent of night wafted through their noses, Genya would remain, the moon entrapping him where he now belonged. His legs no longer begged for Tokyo, not when he was in the presence of his current lover. The way Muichiro slept on his chest, his eyes when they weren't open, his lips when they purred to a lucid dream. It was all so magical and unexpected. Genya never considered he'd become so lucky. Yet, here he was, dwelling in the blissful tranquility of his high school sweetheart.

As Muichiro continued to dream, he couldn't help but harbor a similar feeling. In his nightly vision, there was a man. The man walked up to Muichiro charmingly, roses in his grasp, a suit to compliment his chivalry as he asked for his hand. The modern knight in shining armor came to claim him because Muichiro deserved it.

If it weren't for that signature scar and the familiar dimple on his right cheek, Muichiro would've rejected him right then and there—he already had a man. Yet, despite the blank image his dream bestowed to him, he still recognized the man's features as well as his charming charisma and realized that was his man.

"Hmm."

Genya watched closely as Muichiro developed a subtle smile on his lips, accompanied by a light hum of approval. He wasn't aware of what exactly Muichiro was dreaming about, but he liked to believe it was fulfilling. His palm remained in the labyrinth of Muichiro's hair, caressing it gently as he drew him closer. Their legs locked together as they relied on the warmth of each other in such a chilly environment.

Genya couldn't tell if it was the symphony of Muichiro's soft and gentle breaths or the natural impact of the night, but his eyes began to falter as well. The television screen became a blur, continuing to play as he reflected on the decision he decided to make that day. There were only so many decisions left to make after all.

Eventually, Genya would succumb to the pull of his slumber. He shut his eyes, facing the ceiling as his light snores caught up to him. The speakers played in the background, illustrating the near silence already present in the room. Neither needed to speak to love. Their presence was enough. That idea alone was what motivated Genya to dream as well, joining Muichiro in his benevolent vision.

-

Genya suddenly woke up in response to the abrupt ring of his smartphone. He groaned, unable to process the cacophony so early in the morning. His arm stretched out, reaching over for his lover in bed. However, after some time, he'd come to realize that he was making physical contact with nothing but the duvet.

"Muichiro?" He called out, the ringtone cutting off as he slowly opened his eyes.

His vision was blurry, the significant rays of the sun doing absolutely nothing to help as they immediately shot into his eyes. Yet, throughout it all, he could still somewhat perceive the blue highlights at the hotel window. Muichiro was aimlessly staring out at the view, and he looked so undeniably gorgeous while doing so.

Genya hummed at the sight, propping himself on one elbow and resting his head on his palm with a smile. At this time, Muichiro hadn't noticed him yet, his back still turned as every bird distracted him. Even when his name was called, he was so entrapped by the outside world to acknowledge it. Who knew a view could get so much better from up high?

Ring Ring.

"Ugh..." Genya groaned, finally reaching over for his phone to pick it up. "The universe won't even let me admire him."

As he faced the screen, he noticed his bosses caller ID. His gaze deepened as the memories of yesterday caught up to him. He was fully aware that was a day of work missed that he could never make up for. He didn't even have to pick up the call to know he was fired. Yet, it kept ringing, and to be frank, there was really no point in ignoring it. With a sigh, he answered.

"Morning," Genya said, his voice calm and relaxed.

"Genya, it's Masaru. Where were you yesterday? You didn't show up at the office, and we had an important meeting."

Genya sat up slightly, leaning against the headboard. "I know, Masaru. I apologize for that. Something came up."

"Something came up? You didn't call or email. Do you understand the impact this had on the team and our clients?" Frank's tone was stern.

Genya nodded to himself, running a hand through his hair. "I get it. It was unprofessional. I should've informed you."

Masaru sighed on the other end of the line. "This isn't the first time, Genya. We've had issues with your attendance and communication before. I'm afraid I have no choice but to let you go."

Genya absorbed the news quietly, then replied, "I understand, Masaru. Thank you for the opportunity."

"You're taking this awfully well," Masaru said, sounding surprised.

"Well, it's not like I didn't see it coming," Genya replied with a small chuckle. "I guess I just have to figure out what's next."

There was a pause before Masaru continued, "I appreciate your understanding. We'll arrange for your severance and the paperwork. If you need a reference, let me know."

"Thanks, Masaru. I appreciate it," Genya said, his tone still calm and even.

"Alright then. Take care, Genya."

"You too, Masaru. Goodbye." Genya ended the call and placed his phone back on the nightstand. He lay back down, staring at the ceiling, feeling a strange sense of relief wash over him.

"That was... depressing," Muichiro suddenly said, now facing Genya in guilt.

After all, he was only so caught up in the world outside earlier because he was thinking to himself. As he counted every car, he had finally come to the conclusion that it was in his best interest to let Genya go. The thought was sudden, almost intrusive, but definitely sincere. It even made sense. So, he accepted it with his whole heart, prepared for Genya to wake up and walk out of the door after their passionate night.

However, upon perceiving the phone call, a sudden feeling of relief washed over him. He'd never admit it, not even to himself, but Genya's lingering was all he could ever wish for. He didn't think it'd happen just like that, but it most definitely did, and it was undeniably satisfying.

"What's depressing?" Genya queried with a scoff. "Tolerating getting fired so I can stay? I personally consider that to be amazing."

Genya removed himself from the bed, now walking up to Muichiro to give him a meaningful peck on his forehead. Muichiro breathed a gentle breath, pulling Genya into a soft embrace. His lips curled into a smile as the two swayed in their stances. Genya ran his veiny hands through Muichiro's hair, staring up ahead at the city streets.

"I think I like it here," He admitted, closing his eyes as he melted into Muichiro's presence. "No... I love it here."

As the world zoomed out on them, their silence turned into a blissful tranquility. The city below them bustled with activity, illustrating a town never worth leaving. Genya and Muichiro stood by the window, the soft light of the rising sun casting a warm glow over their faces. They were wrapped in each other's arms, the familiar scent and feel of their embrace speaking volumes more than words ever could.

Genya looked out over Kitakyushu, the place he had once thought to leave behind in pursuit of his career. But now, with Muichiro by his side, he saw the city in a new light. Every street, every building held memories of their youth, their laughter, and their love; a rekindled love.