Just Business

Just Business

Chapter 3

(A/N :: Okays. Since the main introductions are basically over,
I am going to be using different POVs and yes they will be
labeled. Please review/critic so I know what I need to fix.
Thank you and ENJOY!)

(SIK company: morning)

Humming gently along with his MP3, Demyx’s pencil
glided across the applicatio0n. This wasn’t ass bas as he’d
first feared. Smiling, he cast a glance at the others. Sora’s
adorable face was scrunched in thought. He was almost certain
the gears in his head had imploded again. Shifting his gaze to
his side, Demyx almost chuckled. Axel sat deep in thought with
his tongue sticking out slightly as he wrote. By the twitching
of his red brows, he was certain SOMETHING would be ash by
evening.


Quickly, his eyes shifter to the rest. The waiting room
had slowly filled since the three originally arrived. True,
most were from UKE, but a few were actual applicants. Guilt
started to rise, yet again, as he realized honest applicants
wouldn’t be getting actual paying jobs cause the UKE members
were stealing them for ‘research’ . But this disappeared once
more. After all, these self same jobs would re-open once UKE
pulled out.


Sighing, he watched as Tidus tried to keep from staring
at his partner. It wouldn’t due for the HR to notice they knew
each other. They’d come in separately, after all. Tidus and
Shino were the last to arrive from UKE while his partner,
Seiffer, had arrived half an hour earlier with Aerith. Everyone
knew how hard it was for those two to work together without
running off for ‘alone’ time, but Marly had needed some extra
bodies incase the others couldn’t cut it.


His eyes slid closer to the door, observing the ‘real’
applicants. He knew them fairly well. They’d graduated high
school with Roxas and Sora two years after Demyx returned to
Destiny Islands. Pence and Wakka had immediately walked over
and started talking to Sora while the girl, Tifa, Demyx thought
had joined Cloud. That’s right, emo-clad Cloud was her only
target. He tried to stop snickering as Tifa’s voice floated
his way. She STILL couldn’t grasp the fact that Cloud wasn’t
interested in her. Hell, even Cloud’s mother felt the need to
beat her over the head to get the point across, but that was
Aunt Yuffie for you. Being a ‘Great Ninja’, she prided herself
on her and her sons ‘talents’. But even she couldn’t get passed
Tifa’s hard head. Speaking of Aunt Yuffie, I better remind the
others we need to call her. I’d hate to think of what evil she
has planned this time if we don’t. As if on cue, his mind
pulled forth what did happen the last time they forgot.
Telephones superglued to their ears and frilly dresses in their
closets pounced. Yes. We’d better call ASAP. He thought with a
shudder.


“Yo.” Demyx blinked as a silver haired male
appeared before them. If he didn’t know better, he’d thought
this guy took lessons from his Aunt. He was that quiet. “Since
most of you have completed the applications and handed in your
resumes, we will continue with the assessment tests. Please
follow me.” Rising, the room followed as one until they were
stopped at a door. Waving them in, the man was the last to
enter. “On the computers before you, you will find links to the
different positional tests. Please click on the appropriate
ones. Each test is timed and the instructions included. If you
have any questions just call for me. My name is
Kakashi.”Staring right at Cloud, his voice dropped to a husky
purr.“And please don’t hesitate to call.”


A little startled that Kakashi merely pulled out an
orange book while they stood there, Demyx looked over to his
group. Shrugging, they all sat down and began their test. It
seemed like an eternity later. Glancing at the clock, he was
surprised to see only ten minuets had passed. Finished, his
gaze flitted around the room. Sometime ago, Kakashi appeared to
have left, unnoticed by everyone. Sora and Axel were done as
well. With a simple nod of the red’s head, the three friends
returned to the waiting room.


Demyx was about to put in his ear phones when the sound
of a printer kicked up. Ok, so he was a little curious. Rising
up slowly and towards the sound, he caught Axel’s rolled eyes.
Sora just grinned and took look out position with Demyx’s MP3
player.


Quiet as a mute mouse, Demyx slid the door open a bit
more. Stealing a glance inside, his eyes widened. There sat
Kakashi reading different tests and applications. This in
itself wasn’t strange, but the fact that several were being
doodled upon and going straight into the trash was. Before he
could get a better look, he heard his MP3 player start on full
blast. Mentally cursing, the blonde quickly strolled back to
the others. Tifa, Selphie, Shino, and Wakka had just joined
them when Sora sent the alert. Blushing, Demyx sat down and
pretended to show Sora how it worked. As the others filed in,
nervousness settled in the room.


“Now. If Tifa, Selphie, Wakka, and Pence will follow
me, we’ll begin the next phase.” At least this time Demyx
didn’t jump at the unexpected appearance. Several minutes
passed. “Aerith, Shino, Tidus, and Kiba, if you please.” With
no sign of the first four, the others knew the verdict.


Who let the dogs out (woof, woof, woof, woof)


Sora’s cellphone broke the silence a few moments
later. Making no move to answer it, everyone tensed. If Kiba
was calling that meant his group was out of play. Five of their
numbers had failed. It was up to the remaining six and each
dreaded Kakashi’s return.


“Demyx. May I see you pl-“ Thankfully, the shrill phone
cut off the death sentence. Sighing, Kakashi excused himself.
It didn’t take long though. Striding in, Kakashi looked at the
applicants in general until his gaze settled on the silent
Cloud. “Apparently, we are ready for the next stage. I need, “
pulling random files from the stack, he merely glanced at the
names. “Sora, Leon, and Axel. You need to report to floor 68
for your interviews. They will be conducted by the people
you’ll be assisting.”


Raising an eyebrow, Leon looked at the idiot. “What
position is this for?”


“Personal assistant, of course.”


Snorting, he just handed back his folder.”I’m security
trained, NOT socially trained. Why not choose one of those
two?”


Kakashi sighed as Leon pointed to the waiting blondes.
Looking between the two, Kaksahi didn’t take long to make a
choice. “What is your name?”


“Demyx, sir.” raising an eyebrow, Kakashi quickly left
for a moment back to his office. In his hand on his return,
Demyx’s folder had acquired some very interesting colors.
Without a word, he took it and followed the other two out .
Once they were safely in the elevator, Demyx took a soothing
breath. “Well that was close.”


Snorting, the redhead flicked out his Zippo. Axel
always seemed to drag it out when irritated. And by the rate it
was flipping open and closed, he was fuming. “Yeah, well, that
idiot obviously doesn’t manage his job very well.”


It was a quiet chuckle that finally halted the Zippo’s
flight. “Can you just IMAGINE Leon as an assistant?” The
silent, stern Leon catering to a spoiled CEO’s wishes was a
vison VERY chuckle worthy.

Before Either could answer, the elevator ding caught
them off guard. Their eyes darted guiltily at the doors. The
readout only flashed floor 12, so it was not quite time.
Opening slowly, three simultaneous gasps greeted the graceful
youth that entered. Ignoring the three, he simply looked at the
selected floor and waited. As quick as the doors closed, Demyx
and Sora pounced. “Oh my gawd! What do you use on your hair?
It’s so silky!”“Where do you get your clothes? They’re soo
beautiful! They must have cost a fortune!”


Confused, the poor brunette blushed at the attack.
Thankfully, the other present reached out and physically
restrained his friends; hands over their mouths. “Please excuse
my compatriots. They usually aren’t this bad mannered.”
Blinking up at the red head, Sora and Demyx both cast the same
thought. That’s pot calling the kettle black!


The young man smiled gently. “That is all right. I’m
Haku. It is a pleasure to meet you.”


Axel nodded in acceptance. “The blonde mop is Demyx and
the sugar overdose here is Sora.” As their names were released,
so too were their mouths revealing their embarrassed
smiles. “And I’m Axel. Got it memorized?”


Haku’s laughter flooded the small area. “Assuredly. So
I take it you are new?” Three nods. “Ah. By the fact you are
going to floor 68, you must be the other assistants.” Again the
nods. Sighing his head sank. “Well don’t let anything you hear
scare you. All the partners are very professional. True two are
a little... cold, but they really are not cruel. Just don’t
piss them off. You’ll be out of here pretty quick if you do.”


Demyx and the others absorbed the information. The
butterflies in his stomach evolved into condors at the news.
Could they really DO this? “How long have you worked here?”
Sora’s question brought him back from his self-doubt.


“Oh, I’ve been a secretary here for three years. This
will be my second day working as Mr. Shakaku’s assistant.”


Now this was curious. “Second day? What happened to his
last one?” It was too much a coincidence that his assistant
left at the same time as the others.


Shrugging, Haku held the papers alittle tighter. “I
don’t know. He’s not one to talk much, but he goes through
assistants almost every six months or so.”


“Is that so?” Looking back at the other two, Demyx
couldn’t help but wonder. “What about the others?”


“Well. It isn’t all that strange for Mr. Jenova, but
Mr. Uchiha and Mr. Namikaze have had the same assistants for
years. In fact, Mr. Uchiha’s assistant was Mr. Namikaze's
little brother.”


“Really?” Hmm. Filing that away quickly, they waited
for him to continue.


“Yes. Rumors have it that Mr. Namikaze felt that his
brother was ‘distracted’ by Mr. Uchiha and didn’t want him
hurt. So he sent him off on vacation. Others think he pissed
off his brother’s fiancé and Mr. Jenova finally disposed of
him. I tend to believe the later. “ The gulps set Haku’s
smile.” As to Mr. Namikaze's assistant, *shrug* who knows. There
are so many rumors about his disappearance I can’t remember
them all. And believe me, EVERYONE is glad he’s gone.”


Confused, Demyx couldn’t stop himself. “Why?”

The beautiful face crinkled into a frown. “HE was one
of those people that always flirted and would not take no for
an answer.”


The dawn of enlightenment flashed across their eyes as
the ding flashed across their ears. “Looks like we’re here.”
Stepping off, Haku led the others to another elevator with
three seats opposite it. “You should sit here and await them.”
At his new friends’ raised brows, he chuckled. “The three you
are working for are in the offices one more floor up. Security
reasons have Floor 69 reachable only by this private elevator.
So when they are ready, they will retrieve you.”


“Haku.” Blinking at the emotionless voice, all four
turned to the unnoticed arrival. Demyx and Sora flinched at the
cold gaze, but their fiery companion held his breath. There was
a wet dream if he’d ever seen one. Crimson hair flared around
fresh cream skin. Axel couldn’t help but wonder if it tasted as
good as it looked. But it was the pale jade eyes that caught
his darker ones in a powerful hold. Thankfully, they turned
back after a moment, to the brunette beside him. Air rushed his
lungs as he was freed. “Report to my office.” Then the god
turned to disappear down the hall.


Smiling weakly, Haku bade them a hasty farewell and
hurried after his superior. The others breathed in relief as
they took their seats to await the unknown.


*****************************

(SIK. Floor 69 )

Warmth flooded the darkness of the room, but not the
onyx eyes gazing out. “I do not care what the excuses are. That
shipment was due today.” Tilting slightly, the matching ebony
hair swayed slightly across his cheek. “Again, I do not care.
The shipment must be here tomorrow morning at the latest. Or we
WILL find another supplier.” Without waiting for a response,
the phone receiver was replaced.


“It’s a wonder we have any suppliers left that will do
business with us.” Ignoring the laughter in his partner’s
voice, Itachi picked up the next report. Kyuubi chuckled as he
took a seat on the desk’s corner. “I never thought I’d say
this, but apparently my brother DID do some extraordinary work.
I mean.... there’d be no other way we’d get any distributors or
suppliers to stay with YOUR people skills.”


“Hn.” Was the only response the raven dignified the
comment with.


Kyuubi’s eyebrow shot to his hairline. That was a
surprising affirmative. Shaking his head, he cast a quick look
at the door. Their silver haired friend STILL hadn’t
shown. “Where’s Sephiroth? Our newest applicants are waiting.”
The snort behind didn’t startle him any. “Really, Itachi, you
need to....” The quiet opening of the door caught him. But the
happy smile soon disappeared as he saw who entered. “Oh. It’s
you.”



“Well, thanks for such a nice greeting, Kyuubi.” Sharp
teeth glinted evilly as lips retracted into a grin. Kisame
nodded civilly to his friend and employer. “And here I thought
you cared.”


It was Kyuubi’s turn to snort. HE didn’t really care
for Itachi’s friend, but he had to admit that Kisame was good
at his job. “What do you want?”


Placing a hand dramatically over his heart, his smile
widened slightly. “Ah, you wound me, Foxy. Couldn’t I come to
admit my undying love?”


“You had better not unless you wish a true heart
wound.” A cold sliver skittered across the sharkman’s spine.


“SEPHIROTH!” Ignoring his fiance’s happy squeal,
Sephiroth strolled silently forward. His glare promising pain
to the other male.


Kisame knew when to conceded. Holding up his hands, he
backed up a few steps still smiling. “Geez, Seph. You really
need to get a sense of humor. I was just kidding.”With the
glare still freaking him out, he moved even closer to Itachi’s
window. “Not to mention he’s not my type.”


“Ah, yes. Too independent for your tastes, I believe.”
A strong arm wrapped around the redhead’s slim waist. Nibbling
on an eagerly offered neck, Sephiroth flashed his rival an evil
grin.


“Damn right. It’s no fun if they fight back too much or
say no.” He didn’t understand why the lovers froze or why the
Fox glared daggers.


Itachi sighed heavily; the headache behind his eyes was
already threatening to cleave his head in two. Murder is a
viable option. He thought, but quickly dispelled. Too messy
this early in the morning. Maybe after another cup of coffee.
Seeing his partner rising from his lover’s lap, he decided to
derail this argument before it took required an er
visit. “Enough. We don’t want your views on dating, Kisame.
And Kyuubi, we don’t need a morality lesson this early.” Both
parties huffed at his chosen words, but he didn’t let them
pout. “We have far too much work. I received word from Naruto,
that all our operatives are in place. He and the others shall
send word in a week, if they have nothing. Otherwise, they
shall contact us as they gain information.” Nods greeted the
news. “Now, on to other matters.” Turning, his gaze settled on
his friend. “Kisame, we have some applicants below. We will
need to get their information cleared before days end. They
will also require badges and security codes as well.”


A fine silver brow arched slightly. “You are certain of
their worth?”


“No. But I am certain that I really do not care. Work
is already starting to lag and bodies are required. If they can
not manage the load, then new ones will take their places.” The
raven’s shrug barely registered.



*snort* “You really need a life.” Kisame snickered at
his detached glare. Sensing the amusement from the others, a
plan started to form. “In fact, I bet you couldn’t get a life
if it was handed to you.”


“Is that so?” Winter crept into Itachi’s tone, but
Kisame ignored it. They’d had this conversation many
times. “Yeah. All you ever think about is work. You’ve not been
out with me much less a date in over a year. Let’s face it.
You’re hopeless.”


What surprised the shark more was the chuckling
agreement. “He’s right, Itachi. Even NARUTO said you couldn’t
get laid even if you paid for it.” Kyuubi chuckled evilly. “In
fact, he said SASUKE had a better love life than you.”

“Dude, that is just SAD.” Kisame snickered. Apparently
Kyuubi got what he was doing.


Narrowed eyes flashed crimson. “Be that as it may. We
DO have other things to worry about.” Standing, he collected
his papers. “I am moving to the conference room for the
interviews. Feel free to join me when you are done being
juvenile.”


The trio watched his back retreat from the room. Once
he was sure the raven was out of earshot, Kyuubi turned to the
sharkman. “So what do you have planned?”


Sharp teeth slowly peeked. “Why don’t we help him out
alittle bit?”


“What do you suppose?”

“Let’s set him up with someone without his knowledge.”
Thinking it a good idea, the red head was about to agree until
Kisame’s next words stopped him. “But let’s make a bet to make
it more fun.”


“What sort of bet?”

He pretended to think a moment. But the evil smile
never faded. “ If he chooses my person, you have to do ANYTHING
I command for a day. If he chooses yours, I do the same for
you.” Seeing those cute eyes widen, his snicker got
malicious. “What’s wrong, Foxy? Scared?” Oh, he knew he what
card to play, as he watched the determination flood into the
redhead’s eyes. This was too easy.


“Never! I’m soo in! I’ll have you cleaning toilets
before you know it!”


Chuckling, Kisame nodded his acceptance, but it soon
died. “I am in also.” Both sets of eyes twirled to meet the
unexpected rival. “Why do you want to join?”


Shrugging, Sephiroth stood gently settling Kyuubi on
his feet. “It seems an enjoyable venture.” His silver eyebrow
rose at Kisame’s frown. Oh, he knew what he was really doing
and there was no way in hell he’d sit by and let it happen. But
it’d be far more entertaining to exact revenge from a
victory. “Why? Are you frightened of losing, Kisame?”


Damn, Kisame thought. If he’s in this’ll be far harder.
BUT , then again, I’d have them BOTH. “No. No problem at all.
Welcome to the game.” His mind already plotting. Oh how much
fun he’d have when all was said and done.


Coughing, Kyuubi caught their attentions. “Anyway. What
are the ground rules?”


“Heh, no real rules. We basically find one candidate
each. Writing down our choices on a piece of paper that will be
placed in the safe. Then start trying to get them together on a
date. After, um, two months, we’ll bring out the names and
tally up the dates. The one with the most dates in that time
wins.”


After a moment of thought, Kyuubi nodded. “Ok. How
about we have our candidates chosen by Friday? That way we have
time to get the right ones for the job.”


His sharp teeth glinted in anticipation. “Agreed.”


At Sephiroth’s nod, he moved to wards the door. “Now,
I believe, we have made Itachi storm long enough.” Clasping
Kyuubi’s arm, he tugged him along. “Kisame, on your way down,
please, tell the new candidates we will call them up shortly.”


His snort trailed down the hall in acceptance. Hiding a
curse, he strolled to the elevator. His pale eyes caught the
slim form waiting already. Predatory instincts kicked in. “Good
morning, Hinata.” This shouldn’t be too difficult. He thought,
After all, it’d been three days since that worthless shit
refused me. Though he had to admit to himself, the blonde’d
been fun to torture. Just remembering, the time he’d sent Demyx
to the hospital and returning two days later with 52 stitches
and a concussion , was making him hard. Hmmm. I wonder if he’s
changed his mind yet? Shaking his head, he thought better of
calling him. Give him a little more time, but I might as well
find some fun while I wait. “So, Hinata, what are your plans
tonight?” He asked as the doors opened to Floor 68.

********************************

Sitting as patiently as three ADHD’s full of caffeine
and sugar could, the UKEs fidgeted. Sora was animatedly
chatting with any poor soul that walked by. Axel’s clicking
Zippo synched up with all the keyboard strokes to make a weird
clacking orchestra. Taking this chance, Demyx decided to look
at his folder. Blinking a few times at the sketches and
comments Kakashi had placed there, Demyx couldn’t help the
laugh or blush. True they were perverted beyond belief, but
hilarious none the less.


“So, Hinata, what are your plans tonight?”


Freezing, Demyx’s heart knew that voice well. Quickly,
he brought the folder up to hide behind. Damn! He’d totally
forgotten Kisame worked here! What was he going to do? Kisame
knew what he really did for a living. He’d give them away in a
heartbeat, if he recognized him.! Chancing a glance, Demyx was
thankful the shark had been too distracted by the girl beside
him. But that didn’t stop his heart from tearing itself in two.

It had been three days since the shark had stormed out
the front door of Demyx’s apartment with only his snarl of
disgust and the bruise on Demyx’s face as his parting gifts to
the blonde. Apparently he’d already moved on. He could feel
the tears start, but quickly bit them back. Sora was right. He
should forget the Bastard as well. But... he’d ben the ONLY one
that seemed to want him....that seemed to care about him.
Sniffing, Demyx was losing the fight. He’d been wrong. Kisame
had never cared. The epiphany struck like Axel’s first love.
Hard, fast, and burning everything in its path. All his
memories of their relationship flared up then burned away under
his rising anger and pain. It was over. He’d NEVER had anyone.
Straightening his back, Demyx made a long overdue decision.


“Hey, you guys the fresh meat?” Hell. Demyx knew that
tone. Keeping the folder in place, he felt Kisame’s appraising
gaze settle on the small brunette.


“Yeah. What about it?” The instant hatred flashed from
the redhead and Demyx mentally approved , for once, of Axel’s
overprotective streak. He’d have to warn Sora about the
predator later.


Feeling more than seeing the malicious glint in the
shark’s eyes, Demyx shuddered. “Well, princess, the All High
and Mighties asked me to tell you your time is almost up.
You’ll be sent to the slaughter shortly.” Kisame’s chuckle
slithered down their spines. Before Demyx could catch him, Axel
exploded from his seat. Thankfully Sora was quicker.; Kisame’s
laughter egged the red’s anger on as he moved down the hall.


“It’s alright, Axel. Don’t worry about him. We’ll take
care of that jerk later.” His friend’s words slowly soothed the
flames.


After several moments, Axel’s breath seethed between
clenched teeth. “Yeah. Whatever.” Flopping down again, the
Zippo once more tried to break the sound barrier. Fortunately,
the elevator interrupted the tense moment. Looking up, the
three weren’t ready for the thousand kilowatt smile.


“Hello, gentlemen. My name is Kyuubi Uzumaki, but please call me Kyuubi. I’ll be one of the interviewers, so if
you please, hand me your folders and we shall begin.” Without
hesitation the folders were surrendered. Taking a quick glance
at the three, he homed in on Sora’s adorableness. This one,
Kyuubi was certain, was perfect for Itachi. “Yes, perfect. Now
if you’d follow me.” He motioned to Sora, “We’ll head up.”
Smiling the two left without a glance backward.


In the few moments it took for the elevator to reach
the next floor, Kyuubi knew most of Sora’s life. He had to hide
his chuckle. This kid was almost exactly like his brother...it
was scary. With his thoughts flashing back to the bet, his gaze
swung over his body. Lithe, petite, but strong. Everything
Itachi preferred. This was going to be soo easy. Swooshing
open, the doors woke him from his plotting. He quickly led the
boy into the conference room and gently pushed him into the
chair in the middle with a smile. Taking his own seat, Kyuubi
tried to ease the nervous smile the blue eyed one forced onto
his soft lips. Bottomless onyx and cold cyan stared back as
Sora’s gaze left the comforting red of Kyuubi’s. Sora gulped
as the others turned their gazes on him. Fighting his nerves,
he threw a bright smile forward.


Itachi’s eyes narrowed. No. Not only no, but HELL NO!
Not another one. He’d put up with Naruto for years; he didn’t
want ANOTHER supernova of energy in his space. Tuning out the
questions the others asked, he continued with his work. It
seemed like forever until Kyuubi’s elbow poked his ribs. “Hn.”


“So? What do you think? Perfect for you right?’

Snorting, he returned his attention to the papers. “If
you want him, be my guest.” He noticed the smile falter
slightly, but caught the mischievous twinkle. Something was up.


“Alright then, I’m sure SASUKE would LOVE his help.”

Kyuubi’s tone narrowed the onyx to slivers. What was
up with him stressing his brother’s name like that? It was
almost like he expected Itachi to be jealous or something.
Actually, he felt rather sorry for his little brother... on
second thought, this could be highly entertaining. Itachi’s
sadistic smirk twitched. Oh yes, fun indeed. “Yes, I’m sure
you’re right.”


Surprised by the total opposite reaction to what he
expected, Kyuubi hid his frown. Before he knew it, the wall of
the hall welcomed him but still his mind wheeled. What had gone
wrong? Itachi should have jumped at the sweetheart, but he’d
barely even looked at him. “Sir? Is anything wrong?”Concern
dripped in the bubbling voice.


Snapping out of his thoughts, his hand ruffled his red
tresses softly. He’d completely forgotten the boy by his
side. “Ah, no. Sorry, I was just thinking about where I put
everything.” He hoped those soul searching eyes didn’t catch
his lie. “Um. Since I have several meetings today, perhaps
tomorrow will be the best time for you to officially start.”
His own smile grew at Sora’s. It was easy to see the plans race
through those sky blue eyes. “But,” evil bled into the caught
light of his smile at Sora’s slight frown. “You will at least
meet your co-workers and get you tour and materials, today.”


If he thought he’d get a grumble, he was mistaken. The
smile was back and brighter. “GREAT! I’d love to meet
everybody!”


Kyuubi’s chuckle echoed down the hall. “Very good.”
Opening his office door, his eyes settled on the very raven he
was seeking. “Ah, Sasuke! I’m glad you’re here. I have an
important job for you.”


Said Uchiha barely looked up from the paperwork before
him. “What is it, Kyuubi?” Disinterest colored every inch of
his voice.


Red orbs crinkled in evilness. Oh the young one would
pay and pay hard. “I want you to give all your assignments
today to Deidara to finish while you help us welcome our newest
employee.” He knew how much Sasuke hated Deidara’s work and how
hapslash the blonde was. Kyuubi almost didn’t hide his chuckle
at the thought of how many hours the poor raven would have to
waste JUST to fix what Deidara messed up.


Looking up at the velvet purr, Sasuke knew trouble was
coming. But Kyuubi ignored the gaze as he reached behind him
to pull the waiting brunette forward. “Sasuke meet Sora. Sora
this is Sasuke. Give him the run down and the training
packets.” Turning back out the door, he shot a glance back at
the youngsters. “I’ll be back shortly, so PLAY NICE.” With the
threat in the air, he returned to the conference room.


THWAP! Blinking at the sudden sting in his face, he
barely caught the folder before it hit the ground. Sephiroth
smirked at his lover’s startled look; Itachi fought to hide his
own smile at their antics. Only Sephiroth would dare throw a
folder at the Fox’s face and survive. “While you’re up, go
fetch the next one.” The exasperated sigh drifted to his ears
just as the mumbled curses echoed behind the slim bak all the
way to the elevator.


Following a few choice words, Kyuubi almost forgot to
look over the folder. His breath lifted gently as the door
opened. It wouldn’t do to scare off any of them this
soon. “Axel? Please follow me.” Not missing the nervous
blonde’s sigh, Kyuubi categorized the comforting smirk from the
other red. So they were friends. This wouldn’t be too bad.


Entering the elevator, the two reds left behind a
quickly hyperventilating Demyx. Neither spoke on the ride up,
but the flipping of the Zippo was getting on the Fox’s nerves.
Finally the door opened and released it prisoners. Never again
would Kyuubi yell at his brother for being annoying...well at
least for a week. Rushing to the room, he waited at the door
collecting himself as Axel strolled up. Kyuubi flashed him a
forced smile as the door swung open. If Kyuubi wasn’t pissed,
Sephiroth was a ballet dancer. Just seeing those crimson eyes
flash in time with the throbbing forehead vein was clue enough.
And the cause sauntered in close behind.


His self confidence and cheeky charm wove tangibly
around him. He didn’t even wait for an invite. Flopping down in
the chair like he was the one in charge. Axel flipped the Zippo
slowly...waiting. Sephiroth’s lips twitched. “Name?” He
watched the red head smirk as he leaned back. “The name’s Axel.
Got it memorized?”


Ohhh. Cocky. “He’ll do.” Rising, the silver didn’t
dignify his partners with an answer to their questioning
glances. He simply strolled past the confused red head,
grabbing his collar on the way. Stumbling, the startled Axel
couldn’t get a word out as he quickly met the hallway. “You
will start tomorrow.” He released his new assistant none to
gently. “But first, you will meet my head director and receive
your packet.” Feeling the air shrug, he assumed Axel was in
agreement. They walked for a ways until they reached a heavy
wooden door. Axel didn’t even get a good look as the silver
freak pushed him inside.


What was up with silver haired men and psychotic
tendencies? Well, he really didn’t have room to talk since he
wasn’t much better. Hiding his sweatdrop, he almost missed the
flying paper aimed at his face. He managed to catch it right
as it hit his nose, blinking a few times.


“There’s your packet. Have it read by tomorrow. “ Not
even looking at the seething man, Sephiroth pulled the phone
from his pocket and dialed. After a few moments, a calm voice
settled through the line.


“Mr. Shakaku’s office, how may I help you?”

“Yes, Haku. I need you to come retrieve my newest
assistant and have your boss show him around.”


“Um, yes. Of course, Mr. Jenova. I will alert Mr.
Shakaku and be up shortly.”


“Very good. He shall be waiting for you in my office.
And DO tell Gaara NOT to push him off on you OR neglect my
orders.”


“Sir. Yes, sir.”

The phone flipped closed silently, but for some reason
Axel felt ready for a sacrifice. “Haku, my director’s
assistant, will be here shortly. Follow him and they will
instruct you on the stuff you will need to know.” With nothing
better to do, the red head just nodded. Seeing the acceptance,
Sephiroth left with a swish of hair and the silently closing
door. Leaving a bored Axel to his own designs.


It didn’t take long for the silent partner to return to
the conference room. Opening the door, he turned and caught the
folder before it hit. Ignoring the pouting Fox and smirking
Raven, he turned back outside. Flipping through the folder as
he boarded the small elevator, his chuckle echoed. Kakashi had
REALLY gotten artistic on this one. He managed to barely set
his mask in place as the door dinged open. For all his years,
Sephiroth was not expecting what greeted him.


Barely ten feet away stood a dirty blonde with a VERY
unique hair style. That in itself wasn’t so bad, but it was
also the fact that he stood balanced precariously on a chair
trying to keep the expensive painting above it from falling.
And it didn’t help that he appeared to be soaking wet. Raising
an eyebrow, Sephiroth appraised the situation and the poor
broken flower vase not two feet away from the culprit; taking
all the cues in effect, he cleared his throat. He had to admit,
the surprised yelp was almost as entertaining as him falling
backwards to the floor with the painting soon following.
Thankfully, the painting was unharmed; the same could not be
said for the poor blonde’s head. Fighting hard to keep his
laughter in, his eyes hardened to crystal steel. This poor,
clueless being was going to be Itachi’s assistant? Oh THIS was
going to be GOOD.


Moaning at the throbbing in his forehead, Demyx slowly
blinked his eyes open...right into the cold cyan steel above
him. Scrambling up quickly, he would have bumped heads with
the silver arch-angel above, if he hadn’t moved. His blush
crept quicker as he focused on the disaster before him. Man
this just wasn’t right. Here he was making a fool of himself
even before he was interviewed. Marluxia was going to SKIN him.
A polite cough brought his attention back from the torturous
visions to the SoL (Sex on Legs) infront of him. Fighting the
urge to lick his lips, Demyx’s thoughts hazed abit. Maybe
losing Kisame wasn’t a bad thing after all. Rubbing the back of
his head nervously, Demyx smiled. “Um... hi?”


Slowly the Ssol’s (Silver Sex on Legs) eyebrow rose in
silent inquiry. “Ah. Um, yeah. About that... well you see...”
Taking a deep breath, Demyx passed the point of no
return. “IwaslookingatthevasewhenIstartedtohumasongandthenIhadto
startdancing.UnfortunetelyIwasn’tpayingattentiontowhereIwasgoing
andhitthepedistalthevasewason.Itriedtocatchtehvase,butImissedita
nditbrokealloverme.Standingup,Iputmyhandonthewalltotryandkeepfro
mslipping,butmyhandhitthepaintinganditstartedtofall.Imanagedtoca
tchit,butIcouldn’tgetitstraightsoIstoodonthechairtryingtogetitba
ckinplace.ButthentherewasacoughandIwaslike’OHno!
andIlostmybalanceandfell.Thepaintingsoonfollowed,butthankfullyit
wasn’thurt.ThoughInowhavealumpandamwet. And That’s what
happened.” His voice whispered the last of the long winded
confession as he finally took a breath.


Shaking his head, Sephiroth turned back to the
elevators to hide the grin he couldn’t stop. This was JUST too
priceless. He didn’t envy his partner one bit. Walking back, he
stopped just inside. His glare turned on the embarrassed
blonde. Finally, the idiot seemed to get a clue and rushed
inside. Neither spoke on the ride up. At last the trap opened.
Leading Demyx into the room, he spotted Haku heading in their
direction.


“Haku, a moment, please.” His cold eyes settled on
Demyx’s form as he passed. “You. Have a seat. We will begin
shortly and DO NOT touch anything.” Getting an embarrassed nod,
he turned back to the brunette.


Shaking slightly, Demyx sat in the indicated chair. He
watched the other two silently. The redhead that got Sora and
Axel earlier was complaining sweetly over his cell phone while
an unknown brunette kept writing. His long dark hair swung in
a loose ponytail over his shoulder, obscuring his face a
little. From where he was sitting, Demyx couldn’t tell anything
except that he was pale and taller than himself if only by a
few inches. Shaking his head, his gaze wandered around the
room. Paintings and a bookshelf adorned the room. And each and
every one of them called to Demyx for a closer look. But the
silver’s cold threat echoed in his mind. And Demyx was certain
if he failed to listen, there wouldn’t be enough left of him
for a funeral.


It seemed like an eternity until the silver
returned. “Now. We shall begin.”


A deep sigh drifted from the raven. Without raising his
eyes from the form infront of him, his first question slithered
out. “What is your name and experience?” But the melody that
floated back in answer snapped his attention.


“Demyx, sir. And I’ve worked as a personal assistant
for five years before.” Soft dark blonde hair in a unique style
that somehow worked for the lean man tried to catch his gaze as
water droplets clung oh so tightly... but it was the deep
forest green eyes that held his breath.


“Why did you leave that position?” Kyuubi’s voice
rescued the drowning Uchiha. Shaking his head, Itachi quickly
returned to his normal calm. Luckily noone saw his lapse of
control, or so he thought as he tuned back into the red’s
questions. Sephiroth, however, smirked as the astounded look
passed quickly from the onyx eyes. This was indeed interesting.
The great Itachi blonde-struck. Keeping his gaze on the raven,
he watched the glints pass back and forth. With each answer
the blonde gave, the hunger flashed more and more only to
disappear a moment later. It was a rare sight to see the mighty
Uchiha lose control even this little bit. Thinking of the bet,
his smile grew. This promised to be far more entertaining than
originally thought.


With quick strides, he crossed the room to his seat.
Writing quickly Demyx’s name on a piece of paper, Sephiroth
made his choice. By the shaking red locks, he believed the poor
idiot would be sent away. After all, Itachi was very picky in
his employees.


“Well, Demyx.” Leaning forward, Kyuubi’s sigh told
Sephiroth all he needed. “I’m sorry to say that...”


“You start now.” All eyes focused on him. Red and green
in confusion and the cyan seemed to gloat abit, but the onyx
ignored them. “That will not be a problem will it?”


Finally catching his breath, Demyx couldn’t stop his
excited rush. “No. No problem at all!” He had no clue how the
hell he managed to land the job after all the disasters he
caused, but he wasn’t about to piss off what ever god was
smiling at him now. “I can start at anytime you wish.”


Nodding, Itachi stood. He didn’t know why he’d hired
the blonde, but something told him it’d be far worth it. “Good.
You can follow me to my offices and I shall instruct you in
your duties.” As he started towards the door, something bright
pink caught his attention. The shirt under the jacket Demyx
wore seemed to have something on it. When he asked about it,
the blonde blushed.


“This is my lucky shirt. I um... didn’t really expect
to come and apply today, but my friends forced me. So I wasn’t
prepared. Axel loaned me a jacket to cover the shirt and I
honestly thought it wouldn’t be a problem.” The lie slipped
easily from his lips. Well, at least it was just a partial lie.


Kyuubi chuckled as the raven sighed. Taking pity on
the poor man, he answered. “It’s ok. We really don’t mind what
you wear as long as it is easily covered by a jacket come
meeting time and you have slacks on. That’s the only time we
want you professional is for the meetings. Other than that
anything goes within taste.” Demyx’s sigh of relief was truly
heartfelt, but the red’s curiosity kicked in. “What is it
anyway?”


Blushing, Demyx did the only thing his stunned mind
could and opened the jacket. There all eyes settled on the
bright pink words. It read: This UKE can SO kicked your seme’s
ass!


Silence reigned for several minuets as the three took
in the meaning. Demyx was really starting to fret until a soft
chuckle drifted from the raven soon followed by Kyuubi’s
uproarious laugh. “I was all wrong. You definitely belong
here!” Clapping the blonde on the back, the red led his smiling
lover from the room leaving the still chuckling raven with his
newest treasure.


Not knowing what to think anymore, Demyx turned back to
his employer. He had to admit the twinkling in his deep eyes
was gorgeous. Catching the nod to follow, he quickly dropped
out of his thoughts and hastened to keep up to the offices.