"It's not what your--" Sano paused seeing her expression. "Your upset."
Why is she upset? Ever since they saw each other again. He has tried several tactics using other women to measure her feelings for him. But, Sumire has never reacted before. There was that time he invited all his exes and women he cheated on Sumire with during their time together to please the executives. But she didn't react.
So, what is going on with her now?
"Just a little. I thought we--"
"We?" Sano said confused.
Sumire shakes her head. "Nothing."
He doesn't understand why she is upset. Could she be jealous? Sano felt his heart beat increase at the thought. The thought that she actually cared, that this wasn't an act.
Before he could say anything, they are interrupted by Mashima.
"Sumire, I have to leave for a bit. I'll see you at home later?"
"Ah." Sumire stood up and walked over. "Toh--"
"Yes, beautiful?"
"C-come back soon?"
"Of course." Mashima gives him a wary glance before leaning over and whispering something in Sumire's ear.
"It's okay. I'll stay with San tonight."
Sano blinked. She is staying with him again? For two days in a row? It feels like a dream come true. Normally she evades staying with him for even a night.
After chatting with him for a bit, Sumire returned to rehearsal. This wasn't the first time for him to see her perform. But, it was the first time seeing her rehearsal. Even without the pretty gown, makeup and stage lights. Sumire is dazzling. His thoughts break off when Hino appeared by his side.
At first he didn't say anything but he suddenly apologised.
"Sorry."
"For?"
"For having to take sides. You know I still see you as a friend Sano."
"I know."
He knew of course. Despite Hino's behaviour towards him regarding Sumire. This person truly cares for him. Terashima doesn't know about him drinking Sumire's blood, or how much time they spend together. All of that is due to Hino.
Hino is Sumire's manager so it is only natural for him to do this. But, Sano knew that he was equally protecting him.
"It's just." Hino looked towards Sumire. "-complicated with her being the target of your affections."
"Because of Terashima?"
Hino nodded. "You know how much Yuhi means to me. You know what he did for me.
"Yeah."
"So no matter what happens, I'll never betray his trust. But, I do have some dignity not to explain exactly what I have seen you do with Sumire."
"We haven't done anything." Sano snapped.
No matter how close they get, Sumire isn't willing to break the final boundary between them. He recalled what happened a few days ago, when he was in that dazed state. She came into the bathroom looking for him, and helped wash him.
He wasn't exactly fully conscious but he was aware of her touches, he knew she was helping him bathe. When he saw her get down on her knees to wash his lower body, he reacted and tried to get her to suck him off. But-
'We can't.'
Just two words and they were filled with so much conviction.
Hino raised his eyebrow. If he wasn't angry, Hino would definitely not believe him.
"I thought, I mean what I saw--"
"That's as far as it can get. No matter how willing she may seem, I know she isn't doing this because she loves me."
"So, you think it's just desire?"
Sano shakes his head. "I don't even think it's that. I think she just wants a distraction." He visibly cringes at those words.
He has been denying it this entire time and just focusing on enjoying her company and attention. However, he isn't stupid. Moreover, there is no need to lie in front of Hino.
"Well whatever it is, aren't you glad she is spending time with you?"
"I am." Sano nodded. "But, I just wish we didn't have to be so secretive and sneak around all the time."
"You're going to have to cope with it. The media are on her trail even more. They are fully taking advantage of the fact that Yuhi is not by her side now. Of course, with me around their movements are limited too.However, I can't always be around her." Hino seemed frustrated.
"Is that why you asked Mashima for help?"
"Unlike me, Mashima can spend more time with Sumire. Sumire's current brand was the one she started with Mashima. As a designer and an idol, given their history. It wouldn't be strange for them to be together."
"But your her manager."
Hino sighed. "If only that was my only job. I still have a company to run. Me and Yuhi built that company from scratch, and everyone there has become family. I care for Sumire and would do anything for her. However, I know she wouldn't want me to sacrifice the root of Yuhi's dreams."
"What do you want?" Sano mumbled. It was his first time asking this.
Hino has always sacrificed himself for the sake of those he cares for. But, what does he actually want? At his question, Sano noticed Hino's gaze on Sumire.
Oh.
Oh.
Of course.
That's why this conversation has never come up before. It would drive an even bigger wedge in their friendship.
Sano cleared his throat. "You, really won't pursue her?"
Hino laughed. "No need."
"But-"
It doesn't seem right. He doesn't need anymore rivals, and if Hino truly made a move. It would push him aside. However, Hino has truly done a lot for Sumire.
"It's fine. Besides, I think your mistaken. Even if I made a move on Sumire. She won't ditch you."
Sano sighed deeply. "Considering how she is only around me for a distraction. It's hard to say that she cares."
"Of course she cares about you, otherwise she wouldn't let you get near her."
"But, I-"
Hino shakes his head. "I didn't want to say this before just in case you took it too far. However, now that I have seen that you have changed. I can tell you for certain that Sumire cares more about you than you think. No matter what her reasons for being around you, it's no longer a game. It's her choice and she is willing."
*Unedited*
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