[Fic] Takeover 2
Title: Takeover
Author: Kiarene
Pairings: 1x5
Rating: R
Summary: AU. Corporate raider Heero Yuy has his sights on one Chang Wufei.
First Published: 1st May 2004
Disclaimer: I so totally own them. Bwahaha.
Feedback: Is good for you
Takeover 2
As I exited the men's room, five minutes to seven, I catch sight of Chang walking along the corridor towards my office. I saw him from the front yesterday; this time I take the chance to admire his rear view.
Today, he is dressed entirely in black: a well-cut black leather jacket shows off the broad set of his shoulders nicely, which tapers down to a trim waist. His hair is caught up in a braid this time, a twisted streak of glossy ebony that catches the light as it swings. Snug black jeans cup the sweet curve of his hips and ass, and I must admit my attention comes to a short circuit there.
Christ. He has a fantastic, tight bubble of an ass. Makes me wonder what he does to keep fit.
Makes me wonder what it looks like without the jeans.
"--to see Mr Yuy, Ms Po," Chang says politely. God, even his voice, deep and sure, sounds like sex. He probably has to beat off his students with a stick.
"Call me Sally, Mr Chang." Sally smiles warmly and I choke. My assistant has often been compared to the Cerberus; as watchful and just as friendly as the mythical gatekeeper to Hell - and I do catch that reference to me as well. Duo has been calling her "Sally" or "Sal" for months, and her response is usually a frosty "Call me Ms Po."
"In that case Sally, call me Wufei."
My scowl deepens and Sally happens to look up at this point, eyes widening as she catches sight of my possessive glare.
*Mine*!
"Mr Yuy!" Sally sounds a bit flustered. Good.
"Give me a moment, Chang." I stride into my office, picking up my laptop and keys. An unfamiliar feeling of doubt coils heavily in my gut and I recall the background check I ordered on Chang Wufei this morning.
Twenty-six, living alone at one of the executive apartments provided for the university lecturers on campus. Only son, parents passed away. Earning a decent salary, frugal and has a good credit line.
Then came the stunner.
Married at twenty-two, widowed at twenty-four. Apparently no serious relationships since then.
Married! To a *female*!
I recall the brief wrenching feeling of disappointment and anger, when I had been sorely tempted throw my laptop against the wall, before I pulled myself together. Like I'm going to let a mere thing like heterosexuality stop me. I'm a Yuy. I've *never* been refused before.
Then I realized - I had never lost my temper to the extent I wanted to throw my beloved laptop against the wall before. I'm not prone to fits of pique or tantrums.
Damnit. What are you doing to me, Chang?
Having recovered from her earlier fright, Sally gives me a knowing smile when I left my office. Nosy woman. She's too observant, but it's good if she knows I'm interested in Chang and keeps her paws off him.
"Night, Sally."
"See you tomorrow, Mr Yuy." Was there a hint of questioning innuendo in her voice? Cheeky woman.
Still, I'll be keeping an eye on her. And Chang. She's Chinese, he's Chinese. I'm not racist but who knows? Maybe Chang is; his dead wife was a pure-blooded Chinese too. A distant cousin of his from the Long clan too. Damn. Maybe his family believes in 'keeping it in the family'. Good thing his parents are dead - one less obstacle for me.
"Have you read-"
"Dinner first, Chang." I drawl. The life dings and we enter.
Chang frowns and flushes slightly.
Standing side by side, he stares straight ahead and so do I. As the lift travels down silently, I catch his eyes in the mirror. "How did you get here?"
Under his jacket, he's wearing a white linen shirt with a mandarin collar. Is it a coincidence? Black and white again. Traditional mourning colors for the Chinese - is he still hung up on his wife?
Catching sight of my furrowed brows and pursed lips in the mirror, I make a conscious effort to relax.
"Motorbike," Chang replies shortly, zipping up his jacket. "Where are we eating?"
Looking at his attire, I make a quick decision. "Hil's Cafe." It's not too high-brow, it's got good food, good view and most importantly, it's private. I do *not* want any interruptions tonight.
"Ok. I know where that is."
The lift dings again and he walks out first, heading for a sleek black bike parked near the entrance. Once again, my eyes are irresistibly drawn to his rear, the slight sway of narrow hips hypnotic. His gait is smooth and even; he moves like a dancer or a martial artist.
On one hand, I'm disappointed we'll be in separate vehicles. On the other hand, seeing him bent over that sports bike, thighs hugging that powerful machine - I guess that's more than adequate compensation.
As I drive out behind him in my own car, a two-seater Porsche, eyes flickering between the distracting ass and the road, I sincerely hope I do not get into a traffic accident.
~
Dinner was frustrating.
On one hand, Chang is fixated on my factories' environmental practocols, while I simply couldn't care less. I want him to focus on *me*. On the other hand, *he* was there.
I'm fascinated by every tilt of his head and curve of his lips, distracted by the flick of his wrist as he gestures passionately, enthralled by the glimpse of ivory of teeth every time he takes a bite.
The waiter clears away the plates and asks us if we would like dessert. I shake my head but Chang nods with a smile.
"You like sweet stuff, Chang?" I ask with interest.
He looks faintly embarassed and keeps his eyes on the menu. "Well, yes. Not so much sweets, but I confess a weakness for chocolate." I file away that little titbit. Folding the menu, he hands it over to the waiter. "A slice of the chocolate truffle please."
"A glass of red for me," I tell the waiter. I don't really like to drink; I don't like the idea of losing control, but dining and wining are necessary corporate skills. So I drink a glass - it keeps clients satisfied for most people have this odd notion that it's rude to be the only one drinking and a few glasses lowers their own inhibitions. I also think it's a good idea to build up some alcohol tolerance, unfortunately, I have to drink occasionally to keep up that tolerance.
"You're not really interested in what I've been trying to say, are you?" Chang asks bluntly.
"Frankly? I'm not really interested in the scientific or environmental aspects," I hold up my hand to forestall his retort as his face frowns, "but, I am willing to listen to you."
"Really," he snorts derisively.
"Really." I try to smile sincerely. "It would be good for WingCorp's image."
Chang looks disappointed and angry, but resigned. "I guess that's the best I can hope for."
"Seriously Chang, I've never thought about such issues. Don't you think that it's quite an achievement that I'm willing to consider changes after only talking to you twice?" I coax. I may not be the natural charmer like Duo, but I've had the best image consultants and body language coaches.
While I've never fully given in to demands, I've realize that it's best to compromise a little as well. Give them their small victories and they'll keep coming back.
"Well, you're honest. Of course, the rest test would be to see if you are truly sincere in making changes," he sneered.
"What kind of changes do you have in mind?" I asked curiously.
He eyes me for a moment before opening the folder and taking out a few sheets of paper. "I've only sketched out a rough outline, but there are processing and scrubbing technologies available that would render your by-products more environmentally friendly."
He hands the papers to me and starts explaining. I look over the numbers, impressed by the effort he had put in, considering that I may not even grant him an audience, much less implement his changes.
"This will be costly to implement..." I check the figures, frowning. "Firstly, I would have to replace all of the existing equipment, which aren't cheap nor are they wearing out yet. Secondly, the new technologies cost, on average, twenty to thirty percent more."
Chang grimaced. "Yes, unfortunately environmentally friendly processes are still in their infancy. Hence the high cost."
"Do they even work? Deliver the numbers promised? Have they been tested in industry?" A small part of me is asking why I am even giving this serious consideration.
To be really honest? I'm being swayed by a pretty face.
"They should work. I'll have to admit, most of these processes have only been tested in laboratories. Those that have been tried and tested in industry do deliver, although there might be initial hiccups," Chang replies earnestly. A few strands of hair escape from his braid as he nods and he pushes it back behind his ears absently. "I know the outlay is high, but I believe WingCorp can afford it."
I raise a brow. "Yes we can. But why should we, given that none of our competitors are doing it?"
"Don't you ever do anything for the principle of it, regardless of the monetary cost? Some things are more important than material gain," Chang said crossly.
A pang of hurt lances through me at his disapproval but I ignore it. Who is he to judge me? Frowning, I cross my arms and ask him, "Why do *you* do this?"
"Because it's the *right* thing to do. We all have a responsibility to our environment; we *live* here too. WingCorp is not struggling; you can afford to effect these changes. Have you ever..." Chang trails off quietly, eyes dropping to the tabletop.
"Have I ever...?"
"Never mind." Chang shakes his head. "It's not relevant to the discussion at hand."
My frown deepens - I do not like *not* knowing. Who ever said ignorance was bliss was clearly an ignorant fool. But I do not pry further.
"It would be good for WingCorp's image, as you've admitted," Chang continues, raising his head to look at me again. His dark eyes seem to sparkle as he talks about his passion, his gaze intense and tone passionate.
"You can implement these changes gradually, in some of your factories first, and after a few years, your investment *will* pay off. Because the processes are cleaner, you'll be saving in energy cost. Some are even more efficient than traditional practices. Many groups now are lobbying for more stringent standards; I believe it's only a matter of time before industry has to adhere to more environmentally friendly standards."
His tone turns sly and he waggles his brows playfully. "In fact, some of my own research focuses on such cleaner processes..."
I laugh, teasing him. "Fishing for grants, Chang?"
"It is mutually beneficial. We can share rights to the patents," he smirks, nodding at the waiter who arrives with his desert and my wine.
"Perhaps." I take a sip. I sound non-committal, but actually, that proposal - investing in his research - sounds tempting. "Will you object to overseeing these changes, if I should approve?"
Will I get to see more of you, in other words.
"Will you hire me? Am I not irritating, pestering you like this." Chang smiles and suddenly I want to see him smile like that again. He has a beautiful smile, honest and warm.
"Hire you?" I smirk, thinking of what I'll want him to do if I could
Author: Kiarene
Pairings: 1x5
Rating: R
Summary: AU. Corporate raider Heero Yuy has his sights on one Chang Wufei.
First Published: 1st May 2004
Disclaimer: I so totally own them. Bwahaha.
Feedback: Is good for you
Takeover 2
As I exited the men's room, five minutes to seven, I catch sight of Chang walking along the corridor towards my office. I saw him from the front yesterday; this time I take the chance to admire his rear view.
Today, he is dressed entirely in black: a well-cut black leather jacket shows off the broad set of his shoulders nicely, which tapers down to a trim waist. His hair is caught up in a braid this time, a twisted streak of glossy ebony that catches the light as it swings. Snug black jeans cup the sweet curve of his hips and ass, and I must admit my attention comes to a short circuit there.
Christ. He has a fantastic, tight bubble of an ass. Makes me wonder what he does to keep fit.
Makes me wonder what it looks like without the jeans.
"--to see Mr Yuy, Ms Po," Chang says politely. God, even his voice, deep and sure, sounds like sex. He probably has to beat off his students with a stick.
"Call me Sally, Mr Chang." Sally smiles warmly and I choke. My assistant has often been compared to the Cerberus; as watchful and just as friendly as the mythical gatekeeper to Hell - and I do catch that reference to me as well. Duo has been calling her "Sally" or "Sal" for months, and her response is usually a frosty "Call me Ms Po."
"In that case Sally, call me Wufei."
My scowl deepens and Sally happens to look up at this point, eyes widening as she catches sight of my possessive glare.
*Mine*!
"Mr Yuy!" Sally sounds a bit flustered. Good.
"Give me a moment, Chang." I stride into my office, picking up my laptop and keys. An unfamiliar feeling of doubt coils heavily in my gut and I recall the background check I ordered on Chang Wufei this morning.
Twenty-six, living alone at one of the executive apartments provided for the university lecturers on campus. Only son, parents passed away. Earning a decent salary, frugal and has a good credit line.
Then came the stunner.
Married at twenty-two, widowed at twenty-four. Apparently no serious relationships since then.
Married! To a *female*!
I recall the brief wrenching feeling of disappointment and anger, when I had been sorely tempted throw my laptop against the wall, before I pulled myself together. Like I'm going to let a mere thing like heterosexuality stop me. I'm a Yuy. I've *never* been refused before.
Then I realized - I had never lost my temper to the extent I wanted to throw my beloved laptop against the wall before. I'm not prone to fits of pique or tantrums.
Damnit. What are you doing to me, Chang?
Having recovered from her earlier fright, Sally gives me a knowing smile when I left my office. Nosy woman. She's too observant, but it's good if she knows I'm interested in Chang and keeps her paws off him.
"Night, Sally."
"See you tomorrow, Mr Yuy." Was there a hint of questioning innuendo in her voice? Cheeky woman.
Still, I'll be keeping an eye on her. And Chang. She's Chinese, he's Chinese. I'm not racist but who knows? Maybe Chang is; his dead wife was a pure-blooded Chinese too. A distant cousin of his from the Long clan too. Damn. Maybe his family believes in 'keeping it in the family'. Good thing his parents are dead - one less obstacle for me.
"Have you read-"
"Dinner first, Chang." I drawl. The life dings and we enter.
Chang frowns and flushes slightly.
Standing side by side, he stares straight ahead and so do I. As the lift travels down silently, I catch his eyes in the mirror. "How did you get here?"
Under his jacket, he's wearing a white linen shirt with a mandarin collar. Is it a coincidence? Black and white again. Traditional mourning colors for the Chinese - is he still hung up on his wife?
Catching sight of my furrowed brows and pursed lips in the mirror, I make a conscious effort to relax.
"Motorbike," Chang replies shortly, zipping up his jacket. "Where are we eating?"
Looking at his attire, I make a quick decision. "Hil's Cafe." It's not too high-brow, it's got good food, good view and most importantly, it's private. I do *not* want any interruptions tonight.
"Ok. I know where that is."
The lift dings again and he walks out first, heading for a sleek black bike parked near the entrance. Once again, my eyes are irresistibly drawn to his rear, the slight sway of narrow hips hypnotic. His gait is smooth and even; he moves like a dancer or a martial artist.
On one hand, I'm disappointed we'll be in separate vehicles. On the other hand, seeing him bent over that sports bike, thighs hugging that powerful machine - I guess that's more than adequate compensation.
As I drive out behind him in my own car, a two-seater Porsche, eyes flickering between the distracting ass and the road, I sincerely hope I do not get into a traffic accident.
~
Dinner was frustrating.
On one hand, Chang is fixated on my factories' environmental practocols, while I simply couldn't care less. I want him to focus on *me*. On the other hand, *he* was there.
I'm fascinated by every tilt of his head and curve of his lips, distracted by the flick of his wrist as he gestures passionately, enthralled by the glimpse of ivory of teeth every time he takes a bite.
The waiter clears away the plates and asks us if we would like dessert. I shake my head but Chang nods with a smile.
"You like sweet stuff, Chang?" I ask with interest.
He looks faintly embarassed and keeps his eyes on the menu. "Well, yes. Not so much sweets, but I confess a weakness for chocolate." I file away that little titbit. Folding the menu, he hands it over to the waiter. "A slice of the chocolate truffle please."
"A glass of red for me," I tell the waiter. I don't really like to drink; I don't like the idea of losing control, but dining and wining are necessary corporate skills. So I drink a glass - it keeps clients satisfied for most people have this odd notion that it's rude to be the only one drinking and a few glasses lowers their own inhibitions. I also think it's a good idea to build up some alcohol tolerance, unfortunately, I have to drink occasionally to keep up that tolerance.
"You're not really interested in what I've been trying to say, are you?" Chang asks bluntly.
"Frankly? I'm not really interested in the scientific or environmental aspects," I hold up my hand to forestall his retort as his face frowns, "but, I am willing to listen to you."
"Really," he snorts derisively.
"Really." I try to smile sincerely. "It would be good for WingCorp's image."
Chang looks disappointed and angry, but resigned. "I guess that's the best I can hope for."
"Seriously Chang, I've never thought about such issues. Don't you think that it's quite an achievement that I'm willing to consider changes after only talking to you twice?" I coax. I may not be the natural charmer like Duo, but I've had the best image consultants and body language coaches.
While I've never fully given in to demands, I've realize that it's best to compromise a little as well. Give them their small victories and they'll keep coming back.
"Well, you're honest. Of course, the rest test would be to see if you are truly sincere in making changes," he sneered.
"What kind of changes do you have in mind?" I asked curiously.
He eyes me for a moment before opening the folder and taking out a few sheets of paper. "I've only sketched out a rough outline, but there are processing and scrubbing technologies available that would render your by-products more environmentally friendly."
He hands the papers to me and starts explaining. I look over the numbers, impressed by the effort he had put in, considering that I may not even grant him an audience, much less implement his changes.
"This will be costly to implement..." I check the figures, frowning. "Firstly, I would have to replace all of the existing equipment, which aren't cheap nor are they wearing out yet. Secondly, the new technologies cost, on average, twenty to thirty percent more."
Chang grimaced. "Yes, unfortunately environmentally friendly processes are still in their infancy. Hence the high cost."
"Do they even work? Deliver the numbers promised? Have they been tested in industry?" A small part of me is asking why I am even giving this serious consideration.
To be really honest? I'm being swayed by a pretty face.
"They should work. I'll have to admit, most of these processes have only been tested in laboratories. Those that have been tried and tested in industry do deliver, although there might be initial hiccups," Chang replies earnestly. A few strands of hair escape from his braid as he nods and he pushes it back behind his ears absently. "I know the outlay is high, but I believe WingCorp can afford it."
I raise a brow. "Yes we can. But why should we, given that none of our competitors are doing it?"
"Don't you ever do anything for the principle of it, regardless of the monetary cost? Some things are more important than material gain," Chang said crossly.
A pang of hurt lances through me at his disapproval but I ignore it. Who is he to judge me? Frowning, I cross my arms and ask him, "Why do *you* do this?"
"Because it's the *right* thing to do. We all have a responsibility to our environment; we *live* here too. WingCorp is not struggling; you can afford to effect these changes. Have you ever..." Chang trails off quietly, eyes dropping to the tabletop.
"Have I ever...?"
"Never mind." Chang shakes his head. "It's not relevant to the discussion at hand."
My frown deepens - I do not like *not* knowing. Who ever said ignorance was bliss was clearly an ignorant fool. But I do not pry further.
"It would be good for WingCorp's image, as you've admitted," Chang continues, raising his head to look at me again. His dark eyes seem to sparkle as he talks about his passion, his gaze intense and tone passionate.
"You can implement these changes gradually, in some of your factories first, and after a few years, your investment *will* pay off. Because the processes are cleaner, you'll be saving in energy cost. Some are even more efficient than traditional practices. Many groups now are lobbying for more stringent standards; I believe it's only a matter of time before industry has to adhere to more environmentally friendly standards."
His tone turns sly and he waggles his brows playfully. "In fact, some of my own research focuses on such cleaner processes..."
I laugh, teasing him. "Fishing for grants, Chang?"
"It is mutually beneficial. We can share rights to the patents," he smirks, nodding at the waiter who arrives with his desert and my wine.
"Perhaps." I take a sip. I sound non-committal, but actually, that proposal - investing in his research - sounds tempting. "Will you object to overseeing these changes, if I should approve?"
Will I get to see more of you, in other words.
"Will you hire me? Am I not irritating, pestering you like this." Chang smiles and suddenly I want to see him smile like that again. He has a beautiful smile, honest and warm.
"Hire you?" I smirk, thinking of what I'll want him to do if I could