Talk All You Want, Honey, But You'll Be Waking Up In My Bed
TITLE: Talk All You Want, Honey, But You'll Be Waking Up In My Bed
PAIRING: Ryo/NEWS, with some TegoShige, KoyaPi, MassuShige, ShigePi, KoyaTego and MassuPi
RATING: R
WORD COUNT: 4,175
SUMMARY: Ryo finds a way to really bring NEWS together. Sequel to Who Needs Words When You've Got A Body Like That, and yes, you should probably read it first.
Ryo is tired.
And a tired Ryo wants nothing more than a nice, quiet dinner, long bath and to go to bed early.
The company of certain people is far more conducive to this plan than others.
Which is why it's Koyama behind him in the shower, scrubbing his back with body wash and humming in a soft voice.
Tegoshi would demand attention (and sex). Shige wouldn't deign to pamper him. Massu is busy with a family thing, and Pi has single promotions, or filming, or a photoshoot, or something. (Ryo doesn't really try to remember which it is anymore.)
Ryo doesn't even bother opening his eyes when Koyama turns off the water, rubs down Ryo's body with a towel and leads him out of the shower. Koyama dries his hair, trims down his fingernails. Then they climb into bed, Ryo spooning up behind Koyama, breathing in the scent of his shampoo, nodding off to sleep.
Until his doorbell rings.
He lets Koyama get it.
From the bedroom, Ryo hears an obvious "guffaw", most likely from Koyama and then a lot of stuttering. Some one dive bombs into his bed.
Ryo's just about to punch this person's lights out, when Tegoshi happily blinks up at him, from where his face is, near Ryo's hip.
"What are you doing here, Tegorin?"
"I missed you."
Ryo frowns, looks up to the doorway, where Koyama is awkwardly hovering, looking like he's trying to figure out if he should enter the bedroom or run away. He's got a tortured look in his eyes.
Ryo sighs, and knows why.
"You shouldn't just show up, Tegorin. It's rude."
"... But I missed you. And you looked so sleepy today. I figured you'd want some one to cuddle with."
Koyama mumbles something that sounds like, "I'll get my things and-."
"No," Ryo barks. "You're not going anywhere. Tegoshi, go home."
He frowns. "But-"
Ryo grabs him by the arm and pushes him out of bed.
There's a battle of egos between Ryo and Tegoshi, the two of them glaring at each other like they aren't friends and sometimes lovers.
It's a long few minutes until Ryo wins, Tegoshi trudging out.
Koyama is still standing by the doorway of the bedroom. "I would have left. He's going to be moody tomorrow."
"Let him be moody," Ryo huffs, flopping back into bed. "Now get the fuck back here."
Koyama steps lightly, apprehensive. When he gets in bed, Ryo can feel how tense he is.
Ryo sighs and grumbles nothing words; he knows why Koyama is so on edge.
At work, the six of them are friends and bandmates. They share jackets and drinks, books and movies, they have an entire history that, as a group, gives them a strong bond. But when it comes to every one's relationship with Ryo, they're silent. Secretive. He knows for a fact that even Koyama and Shige don't discuss their respective relations with Ryo, avoiding it for fear of the awkwardness that would be guaranteed. It's too private, too personal.
For Tegoshi is show up unannounced like that, has broken down a specifically built wall that separates their private and public group-relations.
Ryo falls asleep, against the warmth of Koyama's back, wondering what the repercussions of tonight are going to be, and if there are any, if they can be reworked for his own benefit.
-
Koyama was right. Tegoshi is in a mood the next day when they're all gathered for a TV interview. He sticks close to Massu, sometimes Shige, refusing tea from Koyama and ignoring Ryo when he tells Tegoshi to stop being fussy.
Shige can tell something's up, or something happened, but he's too shy to ask Koyama. Massu had a good breakfast and he's in an amicable mood, so he's willing to go along with Tegoshi. Pi is oblivious, as usual.
Ryo groans quietly, pinching the bridge of his nose. He knows this will have to be dealt with. He takes Pi home that night, works out his frustrations and irritation. YamaPi mumbles and fidgets, curious, but he doesn't question until Ryo is sated and leaning against the headboard.
"What's wrong?" Pi whispers, curled up in the blankets.
"Shit's getting messed up," Ryo says, running a hand through his hair. "Tegoshi barged in the other day."
Pi tenses; he understands.
"I feel like everything is crumbling."
Pi scoots closer in bed, drapes an arm across Ryo's hips.
"As Leader, and my friend, what do you think I should do?"
"Wha-I. I don't think I'm in a position to give unbiased advice."
"Then give me biased advice, I don't care."
Pi thinks for a long moment before saying, "I think you need to address it."
Ryo looks down, for the first time in the conversation. "What do you mean?"
"We all know." Pi adverts his gaze, finding the duvet very interesting. "We all know. About you. And the others. But we don't talk about it. It would be weird."
"And you think I should? Put everything out in the open?"
"Don't misunderstand me; I'm not saying this because I'd enjoy it. I'm not a masochist."
Ryo laughs, "Actually, you kind of are."
Pi frowns and covers his face with the blanket.
-
Ryo ponders on the suggestion for several days; it's an interesting idea. Putting everything out in the open, stopping the charade that they're each the only one. There wouldn't be any more need for tip-toeing around. No having to coerce Shige in the bathroom away from the others, no sending Massu discreet text messages, no having to sneak out of the building with Pi, hoping that Toma or Jin, or any one else for that matter, doesn't stumble upon them and force a change of plans. None of that any more.
To Ryo, it sounds like a great idea.
He can't just blindly jump into this though. He'll need a method to this madness.
-
While Shige is infamous among NEWS to Ryo as the difficult one, they've been friendly drinking partners far longer than they've been fucking (though, the drinking is what led to the fucking in the first place). It's never much of a stretch for them to fall back into that relationship; have a few drinks and then go their separate ways once they've both called it a night.
So, they go out for drinks, but they don't split up at the exit of the izakaya. Ryo presses a thumb against the leather of Shige's belt, leans in just a few centimeters and whispers, "Don't make me walk home all alone."
Shige grumbles, but agrees to see Ryo home and lets him keep a hand on Shige's body for balance.
What Ryo failed to mention, was that he'd already invited Tegoshi over, via text message, while Shige was in the bathroom before they left.
At the door to Ryo's apartment, Tegoshi's standing there, a small duffel bag in his hands. From his clothes and the sweat around his hair line, it's obvious that he came straight from playing soccer. Shige starts to pull away, to leave before things can get awkward, but Ryo doesn't let him.
Tegoshi goes straight for the shower, like this isn't the first time he's come over after a soccer game. Ryo gets himself another beer, Shige tries to refuse when he's offered, but Ryo pesters him until he takes the drink. Tegoshi comes out a minute later, wearing boxers and a shirt Shige knows he's seen Ryo wearing. Tegoshi doesn't ask for a drink and Ryo doesn't offer one. Ryo and Shige are sitting against both the armrests, and Tegoshi plops between them, smiling, cuddling up to Ryo's side. Shige sips his drink, feeling out of place and unwelcome.
"Tegonyan," Shige hears Ryo whisper. "You're going to make Shige jealous."
"Eh?" He blinks in response.
Shige turns to look at them, and he catches eyes with Ryo, who's smirking. "Hey, who do you like more? Me or Shige?"
Tegoshi gasps, like it's a heathenistic question.
Ryo looks up. "Shige, come over here. Closer."
He doesn't move, and Tegoshi grabs him around the wrist, tugging, the beer almost spilling. Ryo takes it from him, setting it on the coffee table. Shige and Tegoshi are flush together, with the latter holding him close.
Shige's teeth start to clatter from nervousness. "I-I'd better l-leave."
Ryo leans in close to Tegoshi. "You love Shige too, right, 'Nyan? Go on."
Shige can feel himself pale the second Tegoshi moves away from Ryo, slipping his arms over Shige's shoulders and presses their lips together. Shige can hear his own frantic heartbeat in his head, and rips his head away from Tegoshi's. He scrambles off the couch.
Or at least, he tries to, but Ryo's some how gotten behind him, holding Shige against his chest and directing Tegoshi back.
"Tegoshi, you're not even drunk! Stop it!" Shige snaps.
Tegoshi just laughs. "It was a really close game... I think I'm still on an adrenaline rush..."
Their lips meet again, and Shige whines in his throat, tries to pull away, but Ryo keeps him right in place. Tegoshi scoots closer, runs a hand down Shige's chest, like he's trying to feel him up through the sweater he's got on. Tegoshi pulls away, eyes looking dark and past Shige, at Ryo.
"Let go of me," Shige says, but it's in a weak tone, like he's already given up.
"You don't like Tegoshi?" Ryo asks, leaning his chin on Shige's shoulder. Tegoshi looks heartbroken at the prospect.
"I don't know what your plan is, but I don't like it already."
Ryo laughs and beckons Tegoshi closer. They kiss, next to Shige's ear, pressing him tight between their chests. Ryo breaks the kiss, moves to nibble at Shige's throat and Tegoshi kisses him, tonguing at Shige's lips, lingering there until Shige relaxes. He's not fighting or complaining; more like he's figured out that going against two people like Tegoshi and Ryo is impossible for even the greatest of men.
-
He moves onto Koyama and YamaPi next. Ryo figures he'll have to be especially gentle with Koyama, since he's already gotten his toes stepped on. Ryo invites the two of them out for karaoke, saying it's rare for the three of them to hang out without one of the younger members there too.
"We old timers gotta stick together," he says laughing.
Koyama loves the idea, Pi agrees to it too, but Ryo can tell the gears in his head are working.
They don't even order any drinks. Ryo keys up a long line of NEWS songs and Koyama flails, grabbing a mic and dramatically starting Shige's opening rap for Change the World.
Ryo is careful of the order, slowly moving from light-hearted songs like Summer Time and Teppen to the heavier Koi no ABO and Bambina. Pi glances over at him, eyes worried like he knows Ryo took his suggestion.
It's no mistake that Kibou~ Yell comes up next, and Koyama goes straight for taking off Pi's shirt, as though they're in the Tokyo Dome.
Ryo doesn't even have to try to convince them to come back to his place. They both instantly agree.
Koyama's blabbering about nothing, sitting on Ryo's couch next to Pi while Ryo fiddles with something in the kitchen. Ryo can tell that Pi's tense, now that he's absolutely sure that Ryo is addressing the situation, even though he hadn't meant doing it quite in this manner.
Ryo finally comes into the living room, sitting at the edge of the coffee table. "Pi, are you feeling okay?"
Koyama's head immediately whips around to access their Leader, scooting closer. "Are you not feeling well? You should have said something..."
"Ah, no, that's not it...," he mumbles, eyes flashing from Koyama to Ryo and back.
Ryo smiles, looking at Koyama. "Want to see something neat?"
Koyama looks confused, but nods. And Ryo goes straight for YamaPi's belt. The two yelp, ask Ryo what he's doing, but that doesn't stop him. He pulls off Pi's jeans, tossing them over the side of the couch.
YamaPi is flushed, eyes wide; Koyama's jaw is hanging open and looks slightly horrified. Ryo grins, presses down on the front of Pi's boxers, making him jerk and whine.
"Ryo-chan, w-what...," Koyama mutters, eyes flittering around, like he doesn't where to look. Ryo just laughs and keep rubbing Pi through the front of his boxers.
Koyama jumps up, making to move, but Ryo just grabs his wrist, pulling him back down to the couch. He replaces his hand on Pi with Koyama's, rubbing it across Pi when Koyama's hand goes limp.
Pi's eyes are scrunched closed, looking like he's working hard to keep his hips still. Ryo moves his hand from Koyama's wrist, but it keeps moving, Koyama getting drunk on the atmosphere and the feel of Pi's erection through his boxers and his always near-desperation to make Ryo happy.
"Take them off," Ryo says, voice strong, but he doesn't specifically direct it towards either one of them.
It's Koyama that strips off Pi's last layer. He turns to Ryo, waiting for his next instruction, and Ryo smirks, pulling Pi's legs apart and jerks his chin towards Pi's groin.
Pi's hand fly up to his face, covering it completely.
Koyama looks down, a brief flash of something catching his attention. He leans down just enough to get a better look, and chokes on nothing when he sees it- the barbell snug against Pi's skin. He can feel the heat rush to his face, and he trembles, partly in embarrassment and partly in excitement.
"Go on," Ryo whispers, voice heavy.
He doesn't have to be told twice; he's curious, wants to feel that metal against his tongue. Pi shouts, biting the heel of one of his hands in his mouth, the moment Koyama dives in tongue wet and exploring against his skin.
Ryo leans back, grinning as he watches them, moaning together - YamaPi in pleasure and Koyama in amusement - and feels very benevolent.
-
Getting Massu to come over is no difficult task. Ryo just drops a little hint that he got a new Chinese cookbook and wants to try out some of the recipes. That night, he sends Massu a message about Mabodofu and Shrimp Fried Rice, and Massu's there within the hour, peeking over Ryo's shoulder as he slowly stirs each dish in it's separate pan. Just as he's finishing, there's a knock at the door; Ryo tells Massu to get it.
It's Shige.
He looks at Massu, pales a little bit and his eyes turn downcast. Massu doesn't get it, but he moves out of the way so Shige can come in. He goes straight to the kitchen, handing over something wrapped in newspaper.
"Here's the filet knife you wanted to borrow."
Ryo steps around him, a plate of Mabodofu in one hand and Shrimp Fried Rice in the other. "Didn't you get my message? I changed my mind about the Mackerel. Don't need the knife."
Shige frowns and Massu follows the scent of spicy tofu to the table. "Join us, Shige," he says, openly inviting him even though it's Ryo's apartment.
Shige's eyes flicker over to Ryo, almost like he's embarrassed. Ryo snaps at him to sit down, and he does.
The only one who acts awkward during dinner is Shige; because Massu is oblivious and Ryo is plotting. Shige remembers what happened with Tegoshi and it's all he thinks about while mechanically eating, grunting out agreements to Massu's declarations of the the yumminess of the food Ryo made.
After dinner, Shige and Massu clean up, Ryo saying that since he cooked, it's not his job. He sits on the couch, channeling surfing on the TV and sipping a cup of coffee. Massu is up to his elbows in soapy water and Shige has a dish towel in his hands, carefully stacking plates and pans in their proper places. Shige felt like he knew what Ryo was going to try, especially after that thing with Tegoshi, but he's not doing anything suspicious and it sets Shige's mind spinning, only making him more paranoid. Massu ignorant to the stress that's coming off Shige in waves; he hands Shige the last plate to dry, pulls out the plug in the sink and goes to join Ryo on the couch in front of the TV.
Shige dries the plate for nearly five minutes, staring pointedly at the counter, and only stops when Ryo pulls it out of his hands.
"What the hell are you doing?" He asks and Shige takes a step back.
"I know what you're thinking!" Shige whispers in reply, eyes flashing towards Massu on the couch.
Ryo blinks, like he's confused. "Damn, you're high stress. Do I need to shove a Viagra down your throat?"
Like those words were a punch to the face, Shige jolts back, bumping into the cabinets and he frantically looks over, worried that Massu heard, but thankfully, he's engrossed in some feel-good documentary.
"I'm going home," Shige snaps, pushing past Ryo and grabbing his things.
"Eh, Shige, wait-"
But Shige's too quick, already with a hand on the door, pushing it open, and then, over Ryo's awkward stuttering, comes Massu's steady, "What? Shige, you're leaving?"
It draws the two of them back, turning to Massu, who's peering at them over the back of the couch, looking concerned.
Shige hesitates, and Ryo takes that opportunity to grab Shige's wrist and drag him to the couch.
"No, no, everything's fine," he says, pushing Shige down onto the couch, next to Massu and Ryo sits on his other side. "But, hey, don't you think Shige over-thinks stuff sometimes?"
Shige shakes his head furiously, but Massu just regards him like Ryo's words make a certain amount of sense.
"He's kind of right, Shige," Massu says. "Relax. What're you so stressed about?"
Shige bites his lip; he kind of wants to say it, but at the same time, doesn't.
Ryo snaps his fingers, like he's just had an epiphany. But, Shige thinks it's a worrying expression he's got. "Ah, I think I know."
Massu can't even say, "What?" before Ryo is kissing him, one hand holding his jaw in place, the other holding Shige still by his thigh. Massu is too shocked to do anything but open his mouth for Ryo, and make some muffled, confused noises. When he pulls away, Ryo still looks smug, and Massu frowns a little, scooting away on the couch.
"Don't," Shige whines. "Just don't do this."
Ryo doesn't answer, just turns and crushes his lips against Shige's, holding him still by the fabric of his pants. Shige tries to pull away, and Ryo bites his lip, holding it between his teeth.
He pulls away, finally, and licks his lips, grinning. "Indirect. Kiss."
Massu makes an indignant noise, but in his peripheral vision, Shige can see that he hasn't moved from the couch.
With his other hand, Ryo grabs the front of Massu's shirt, and in one move, stands and tosses Massu into Shige. "You know what I'm thinking, Shige."
"No."
Ryo glares. "Do you really want me to have you convince you? Because I will."
Shige pales; he knows what that threat means.
There's a long moment where nothing happens, until Shige says quietly, "I can't. It would be like if you asked me to kiss Koyama."
"I sent Koyama to play with Pi," Ryo says nonchalantly. "They're a good match."
"He wants you to kiss me?" Massu whispers.
"Yes," Ryo snaps. "And I'm getting sick of waiting."
Shige is still, completely unmoving, hands fisted together. It's obvious he's not going to do something, so Massu does.
With a single soft hand on his thigh, Massu gets Shige's attention; and all he needed was a slight turn of the head. Shige tries to pull away, but Massu follows, his lips gentle against Shige's. They back right up into the arm rest, where Shige gets trapped, and Massu pulls out of the kiss, though he stays lingering in Shige's personal space.
"I was hoping for a more than G-rated kiss," Ryo mutters, in obvious annoyance.
And this time, oddly enough, it's Shige that leans forward, like he's thinking this maybe isn't a horrible set up. He presses up against Massu, his breath hot and moist, and doesn't wait for Massu to reciprocate, just dives right into the kiss.
Ryo laughs, "I knew you had it in you, Shige."
Ryo directs their movement from a few feet away; always in a quiet voice, but strong with authority.
-
The next time they all meet up for a group thing, Ryo is the third to arrive, beaten to the dressing room by Koyama and Tegoshi.
It's a bit of an odd site though, because Koyama's face is flushed a full, dark red, and Tegoshi just looks smug. He doesn't ask, and they don't tell, but Ryo likes to think that whatever was going on before he got there might end up indirectly benefitting him one way or another.
-
A couple days later, Shige and Yamapi make a quick retreat out of rehearsals, mumbling something about getting drinks together on their way out. It's not weird, and Ryo drags Tegoshi home with him.
He gets a drunken text message from Yamapi hours later saying, "Shige thinks you're mean."
Ryo hands his phone to Tegoshi, who's curled up on the couch next to him. "I'm going to dictate my replies to you. 'Shige likes it, so don't listen to his complaining'."
When Yamapi's answer comes, Tegoshi reads with an almost awe-filled voice. "'He said you made him kiss Massu'."
"If he hadn't of enjoyed it, he wouldn't have kissed back so ardently." And right after the message is sent, Ryo continues, "Tegorin, send one too, of whatever you want. But, let Pi know it's you."
Tegoshi nods and thinks for a moment before typing and sending his, still using Ryo's cell phone.
"'Is that so?' followed by a winking face."
Ryo laughs. "What did your message say?"
Tegoshi looks up at Ryo through his bangs, smiling widely. "'Shige tastes sweet'."
Ryo smirks, and thinks that Tegoshi-Koyama thing is definitely working to his advantage.
-
Massu and Yamapi are friends, but not Yamapi-&-Ryo or Koyama-&-Shige friends, just casual, chit-chat-in-the-dressing-room or in-the-manager's-car friends.
Which is why it's a little odd when Ryo finds them together, talking in hushed tones in a back hallway.
Yamapi sees him first, jolting away from Massu and looking stressed. When Massu sees him, he just gives a casual wave and pokes Yamapi in the shoulder.
Ryo doesn't know what's going on, but he backs away, around the corner and out of sight.
He doesn't miss it, when much later in the day, he spies the two comparing their biceps, unabashedly feeling up each other's upper arms with a less than platonic aura around them.
-
"I'm all for member love," Koyama mutters as Ryo pushes him against the wall in his apartment. "But are you sure this is a good idea?"
"Trust me," Ryo whispers. "It's fine."
When Ryo gnaws gently on his neck, Koyama trembles and fists his hands in Ryo's shirt.
"You can start worrying when I shove you and Shige in a room with a bottle of lube and a handful of condoms."
Koyama physically stiffens and wiggles awkwardly in Ryo's arms. "I- That's. Ryo-chan."
"I'm being careful where it matters, so stop. Being. Whiney."
Koyama relaxes and nods a little, obviously trusting in Ryo's judgement.
-
Ryo lets things grow with as little meddling on his part as possible. Sometimes a specific look or snap is necessary to move things in the right direction, but it's rare that they're needed. He Just looks on carefully and happily as Tegoshi gets comfortable with using Yamapi as a human body pillow, and Shige is unable to refuse Massu the last piece of Uni sushi on the catering tray, and Koyama tickles soft fingers around Yamapi's hips while they practice a new accent dance and Massu lets Tegoshi fuss with his hair and clothing style and Yamapi uses Shige's chopsticks and drinks from his water bottle without asking, because he knows Shige won't be upset with him.
In all the dancing with (as opposed to around) each other, the unchanged familiarity between Shige and Koyama doesn't escape Ryo's notice. They're ever the same, static in their platonic relationship. At first, Ryo finds it frustrating, but as he watches them more, planning a third follow up to Chirarizumu and Muralist, he decides it's not such a bad thing. He'll let them be until they're ready, if they ever are; let them choose the pace of advancement, if they so want it to be. And, in his benevolence, he extends that sentiment to TegoMasu too, because while Massu has started letting Tegoshi play with his hair, Ryo realizes how big of a step that is, and that he should be thankful for even the most meaningless seeming of positive growth.
PAIRING: Ryo/NEWS, with some TegoShige, KoyaPi, MassuShige, ShigePi, KoyaTego and MassuPi
RATING: R
WORD COUNT: 4,175
SUMMARY: Ryo finds a way to really bring NEWS together. Sequel to Who Needs Words When You've Got A Body Like That, and yes, you should probably read it first.
Ryo is tired.
And a tired Ryo wants nothing more than a nice, quiet dinner, long bath and to go to bed early.
The company of certain people is far more conducive to this plan than others.
Which is why it's Koyama behind him in the shower, scrubbing his back with body wash and humming in a soft voice.
Tegoshi would demand attention (and sex). Shige wouldn't deign to pamper him. Massu is busy with a family thing, and Pi has single promotions, or filming, or a photoshoot, or something. (Ryo doesn't really try to remember which it is anymore.)
Ryo doesn't even bother opening his eyes when Koyama turns off the water, rubs down Ryo's body with a towel and leads him out of the shower. Koyama dries his hair, trims down his fingernails. Then they climb into bed, Ryo spooning up behind Koyama, breathing in the scent of his shampoo, nodding off to sleep.
Until his doorbell rings.
He lets Koyama get it.
From the bedroom, Ryo hears an obvious "guffaw", most likely from Koyama and then a lot of stuttering. Some one dive bombs into his bed.
Ryo's just about to punch this person's lights out, when Tegoshi happily blinks up at him, from where his face is, near Ryo's hip.
"What are you doing here, Tegorin?"
"I missed you."
Ryo frowns, looks up to the doorway, where Koyama is awkwardly hovering, looking like he's trying to figure out if he should enter the bedroom or run away. He's got a tortured look in his eyes.
Ryo sighs, and knows why.
"You shouldn't just show up, Tegorin. It's rude."
"... But I missed you. And you looked so sleepy today. I figured you'd want some one to cuddle with."
Koyama mumbles something that sounds like, "I'll get my things and-."
"No," Ryo barks. "You're not going anywhere. Tegoshi, go home."
He frowns. "But-"
Ryo grabs him by the arm and pushes him out of bed.
There's a battle of egos between Ryo and Tegoshi, the two of them glaring at each other like they aren't friends and sometimes lovers.
It's a long few minutes until Ryo wins, Tegoshi trudging out.
Koyama is still standing by the doorway of the bedroom. "I would have left. He's going to be moody tomorrow."
"Let him be moody," Ryo huffs, flopping back into bed. "Now get the fuck back here."
Koyama steps lightly, apprehensive. When he gets in bed, Ryo can feel how tense he is.
Ryo sighs and grumbles nothing words; he knows why Koyama is so on edge.
At work, the six of them are friends and bandmates. They share jackets and drinks, books and movies, they have an entire history that, as a group, gives them a strong bond. But when it comes to every one's relationship with Ryo, they're silent. Secretive. He knows for a fact that even Koyama and Shige don't discuss their respective relations with Ryo, avoiding it for fear of the awkwardness that would be guaranteed. It's too private, too personal.
For Tegoshi is show up unannounced like that, has broken down a specifically built wall that separates their private and public group-relations.
Ryo falls asleep, against the warmth of Koyama's back, wondering what the repercussions of tonight are going to be, and if there are any, if they can be reworked for his own benefit.
-
Koyama was right. Tegoshi is in a mood the next day when they're all gathered for a TV interview. He sticks close to Massu, sometimes Shige, refusing tea from Koyama and ignoring Ryo when he tells Tegoshi to stop being fussy.
Shige can tell something's up, or something happened, but he's too shy to ask Koyama. Massu had a good breakfast and he's in an amicable mood, so he's willing to go along with Tegoshi. Pi is oblivious, as usual.
Ryo groans quietly, pinching the bridge of his nose. He knows this will have to be dealt with. He takes Pi home that night, works out his frustrations and irritation. YamaPi mumbles and fidgets, curious, but he doesn't question until Ryo is sated and leaning against the headboard.
"What's wrong?" Pi whispers, curled up in the blankets.
"Shit's getting messed up," Ryo says, running a hand through his hair. "Tegoshi barged in the other day."
Pi tenses; he understands.
"I feel like everything is crumbling."
Pi scoots closer in bed, drapes an arm across Ryo's hips.
"As Leader, and my friend, what do you think I should do?"
"Wha-I. I don't think I'm in a position to give unbiased advice."
"Then give me biased advice, I don't care."
Pi thinks for a long moment before saying, "I think you need to address it."
Ryo looks down, for the first time in the conversation. "What do you mean?"
"We all know." Pi adverts his gaze, finding the duvet very interesting. "We all know. About you. And the others. But we don't talk about it. It would be weird."
"And you think I should? Put everything out in the open?"
"Don't misunderstand me; I'm not saying this because I'd enjoy it. I'm not a masochist."
Ryo laughs, "Actually, you kind of are."
Pi frowns and covers his face with the blanket.
-
Ryo ponders on the suggestion for several days; it's an interesting idea. Putting everything out in the open, stopping the charade that they're each the only one. There wouldn't be any more need for tip-toeing around. No having to coerce Shige in the bathroom away from the others, no sending Massu discreet text messages, no having to sneak out of the building with Pi, hoping that Toma or Jin, or any one else for that matter, doesn't stumble upon them and force a change of plans. None of that any more.
To Ryo, it sounds like a great idea.
He can't just blindly jump into this though. He'll need a method to this madness.
-
While Shige is infamous among NEWS to Ryo as the difficult one, they've been friendly drinking partners far longer than they've been fucking (though, the drinking is what led to the fucking in the first place). It's never much of a stretch for them to fall back into that relationship; have a few drinks and then go their separate ways once they've both called it a night.
So, they go out for drinks, but they don't split up at the exit of the izakaya. Ryo presses a thumb against the leather of Shige's belt, leans in just a few centimeters and whispers, "Don't make me walk home all alone."
Shige grumbles, but agrees to see Ryo home and lets him keep a hand on Shige's body for balance.
What Ryo failed to mention, was that he'd already invited Tegoshi over, via text message, while Shige was in the bathroom before they left.
At the door to Ryo's apartment, Tegoshi's standing there, a small duffel bag in his hands. From his clothes and the sweat around his hair line, it's obvious that he came straight from playing soccer. Shige starts to pull away, to leave before things can get awkward, but Ryo doesn't let him.
Tegoshi goes straight for the shower, like this isn't the first time he's come over after a soccer game. Ryo gets himself another beer, Shige tries to refuse when he's offered, but Ryo pesters him until he takes the drink. Tegoshi comes out a minute later, wearing boxers and a shirt Shige knows he's seen Ryo wearing. Tegoshi doesn't ask for a drink and Ryo doesn't offer one. Ryo and Shige are sitting against both the armrests, and Tegoshi plops between them, smiling, cuddling up to Ryo's side. Shige sips his drink, feeling out of place and unwelcome.
"Tegonyan," Shige hears Ryo whisper. "You're going to make Shige jealous."
"Eh?" He blinks in response.
Shige turns to look at them, and he catches eyes with Ryo, who's smirking. "Hey, who do you like more? Me or Shige?"
Tegoshi gasps, like it's a heathenistic question.
Ryo looks up. "Shige, come over here. Closer."
He doesn't move, and Tegoshi grabs him around the wrist, tugging, the beer almost spilling. Ryo takes it from him, setting it on the coffee table. Shige and Tegoshi are flush together, with the latter holding him close.
Shige's teeth start to clatter from nervousness. "I-I'd better l-leave."
Ryo leans in close to Tegoshi. "You love Shige too, right, 'Nyan? Go on."
Shige can feel himself pale the second Tegoshi moves away from Ryo, slipping his arms over Shige's shoulders and presses their lips together. Shige can hear his own frantic heartbeat in his head, and rips his head away from Tegoshi's. He scrambles off the couch.
Or at least, he tries to, but Ryo's some how gotten behind him, holding Shige against his chest and directing Tegoshi back.
"Tegoshi, you're not even drunk! Stop it!" Shige snaps.
Tegoshi just laughs. "It was a really close game... I think I'm still on an adrenaline rush..."
Their lips meet again, and Shige whines in his throat, tries to pull away, but Ryo keeps him right in place. Tegoshi scoots closer, runs a hand down Shige's chest, like he's trying to feel him up through the sweater he's got on. Tegoshi pulls away, eyes looking dark and past Shige, at Ryo.
"Let go of me," Shige says, but it's in a weak tone, like he's already given up.
"You don't like Tegoshi?" Ryo asks, leaning his chin on Shige's shoulder. Tegoshi looks heartbroken at the prospect.
"I don't know what your plan is, but I don't like it already."
Ryo laughs and beckons Tegoshi closer. They kiss, next to Shige's ear, pressing him tight between their chests. Ryo breaks the kiss, moves to nibble at Shige's throat and Tegoshi kisses him, tonguing at Shige's lips, lingering there until Shige relaxes. He's not fighting or complaining; more like he's figured out that going against two people like Tegoshi and Ryo is impossible for even the greatest of men.
-
He moves onto Koyama and YamaPi next. Ryo figures he'll have to be especially gentle with Koyama, since he's already gotten his toes stepped on. Ryo invites the two of them out for karaoke, saying it's rare for the three of them to hang out without one of the younger members there too.
"We old timers gotta stick together," he says laughing.
Koyama loves the idea, Pi agrees to it too, but Ryo can tell the gears in his head are working.
They don't even order any drinks. Ryo keys up a long line of NEWS songs and Koyama flails, grabbing a mic and dramatically starting Shige's opening rap for Change the World.
Ryo is careful of the order, slowly moving from light-hearted songs like Summer Time and Teppen to the heavier Koi no ABO and Bambina. Pi glances over at him, eyes worried like he knows Ryo took his suggestion.
It's no mistake that Kibou~ Yell comes up next, and Koyama goes straight for taking off Pi's shirt, as though they're in the Tokyo Dome.
Ryo doesn't even have to try to convince them to come back to his place. They both instantly agree.
Koyama's blabbering about nothing, sitting on Ryo's couch next to Pi while Ryo fiddles with something in the kitchen. Ryo can tell that Pi's tense, now that he's absolutely sure that Ryo is addressing the situation, even though he hadn't meant doing it quite in this manner.
Ryo finally comes into the living room, sitting at the edge of the coffee table. "Pi, are you feeling okay?"
Koyama's head immediately whips around to access their Leader, scooting closer. "Are you not feeling well? You should have said something..."
"Ah, no, that's not it...," he mumbles, eyes flashing from Koyama to Ryo and back.
Ryo smiles, looking at Koyama. "Want to see something neat?"
Koyama looks confused, but nods. And Ryo goes straight for YamaPi's belt. The two yelp, ask Ryo what he's doing, but that doesn't stop him. He pulls off Pi's jeans, tossing them over the side of the couch.
YamaPi is flushed, eyes wide; Koyama's jaw is hanging open and looks slightly horrified. Ryo grins, presses down on the front of Pi's boxers, making him jerk and whine.
"Ryo-chan, w-what...," Koyama mutters, eyes flittering around, like he doesn't where to look. Ryo just laughs and keep rubbing Pi through the front of his boxers.
Koyama jumps up, making to move, but Ryo just grabs his wrist, pulling him back down to the couch. He replaces his hand on Pi with Koyama's, rubbing it across Pi when Koyama's hand goes limp.
Pi's eyes are scrunched closed, looking like he's working hard to keep his hips still. Ryo moves his hand from Koyama's wrist, but it keeps moving, Koyama getting drunk on the atmosphere and the feel of Pi's erection through his boxers and his always near-desperation to make Ryo happy.
"Take them off," Ryo says, voice strong, but he doesn't specifically direct it towards either one of them.
It's Koyama that strips off Pi's last layer. He turns to Ryo, waiting for his next instruction, and Ryo smirks, pulling Pi's legs apart and jerks his chin towards Pi's groin.
Pi's hand fly up to his face, covering it completely.
Koyama looks down, a brief flash of something catching his attention. He leans down just enough to get a better look, and chokes on nothing when he sees it- the barbell snug against Pi's skin. He can feel the heat rush to his face, and he trembles, partly in embarrassment and partly in excitement.
"Go on," Ryo whispers, voice heavy.
He doesn't have to be told twice; he's curious, wants to feel that metal against his tongue. Pi shouts, biting the heel of one of his hands in his mouth, the moment Koyama dives in tongue wet and exploring against his skin.
Ryo leans back, grinning as he watches them, moaning together - YamaPi in pleasure and Koyama in amusement - and feels very benevolent.
-
Getting Massu to come over is no difficult task. Ryo just drops a little hint that he got a new Chinese cookbook and wants to try out some of the recipes. That night, he sends Massu a message about Mabodofu and Shrimp Fried Rice, and Massu's there within the hour, peeking over Ryo's shoulder as he slowly stirs each dish in it's separate pan. Just as he's finishing, there's a knock at the door; Ryo tells Massu to get it.
It's Shige.
He looks at Massu, pales a little bit and his eyes turn downcast. Massu doesn't get it, but he moves out of the way so Shige can come in. He goes straight to the kitchen, handing over something wrapped in newspaper.
"Here's the filet knife you wanted to borrow."
Ryo steps around him, a plate of Mabodofu in one hand and Shrimp Fried Rice in the other. "Didn't you get my message? I changed my mind about the Mackerel. Don't need the knife."
Shige frowns and Massu follows the scent of spicy tofu to the table. "Join us, Shige," he says, openly inviting him even though it's Ryo's apartment.
Shige's eyes flicker over to Ryo, almost like he's embarrassed. Ryo snaps at him to sit down, and he does.
The only one who acts awkward during dinner is Shige; because Massu is oblivious and Ryo is plotting. Shige remembers what happened with Tegoshi and it's all he thinks about while mechanically eating, grunting out agreements to Massu's declarations of the the yumminess of the food Ryo made.
After dinner, Shige and Massu clean up, Ryo saying that since he cooked, it's not his job. He sits on the couch, channeling surfing on the TV and sipping a cup of coffee. Massu is up to his elbows in soapy water and Shige has a dish towel in his hands, carefully stacking plates and pans in their proper places. Shige felt like he knew what Ryo was going to try, especially after that thing with Tegoshi, but he's not doing anything suspicious and it sets Shige's mind spinning, only making him more paranoid. Massu ignorant to the stress that's coming off Shige in waves; he hands Shige the last plate to dry, pulls out the plug in the sink and goes to join Ryo on the couch in front of the TV.
Shige dries the plate for nearly five minutes, staring pointedly at the counter, and only stops when Ryo pulls it out of his hands.
"What the hell are you doing?" He asks and Shige takes a step back.
"I know what you're thinking!" Shige whispers in reply, eyes flashing towards Massu on the couch.
Ryo blinks, like he's confused. "Damn, you're high stress. Do I need to shove a Viagra down your throat?"
Like those words were a punch to the face, Shige jolts back, bumping into the cabinets and he frantically looks over, worried that Massu heard, but thankfully, he's engrossed in some feel-good documentary.
"I'm going home," Shige snaps, pushing past Ryo and grabbing his things.
"Eh, Shige, wait-"
But Shige's too quick, already with a hand on the door, pushing it open, and then, over Ryo's awkward stuttering, comes Massu's steady, "What? Shige, you're leaving?"
It draws the two of them back, turning to Massu, who's peering at them over the back of the couch, looking concerned.
Shige hesitates, and Ryo takes that opportunity to grab Shige's wrist and drag him to the couch.
"No, no, everything's fine," he says, pushing Shige down onto the couch, next to Massu and Ryo sits on his other side. "But, hey, don't you think Shige over-thinks stuff sometimes?"
Shige shakes his head furiously, but Massu just regards him like Ryo's words make a certain amount of sense.
"He's kind of right, Shige," Massu says. "Relax. What're you so stressed about?"
Shige bites his lip; he kind of wants to say it, but at the same time, doesn't.
Ryo snaps his fingers, like he's just had an epiphany. But, Shige thinks it's a worrying expression he's got. "Ah, I think I know."
Massu can't even say, "What?" before Ryo is kissing him, one hand holding his jaw in place, the other holding Shige still by his thigh. Massu is too shocked to do anything but open his mouth for Ryo, and make some muffled, confused noises. When he pulls away, Ryo still looks smug, and Massu frowns a little, scooting away on the couch.
"Don't," Shige whines. "Just don't do this."
Ryo doesn't answer, just turns and crushes his lips against Shige's, holding him still by the fabric of his pants. Shige tries to pull away, and Ryo bites his lip, holding it between his teeth.
He pulls away, finally, and licks his lips, grinning. "Indirect. Kiss."
Massu makes an indignant noise, but in his peripheral vision, Shige can see that he hasn't moved from the couch.
With his other hand, Ryo grabs the front of Massu's shirt, and in one move, stands and tosses Massu into Shige. "You know what I'm thinking, Shige."
"No."
Ryo glares. "Do you really want me to have you convince you? Because I will."
Shige pales; he knows what that threat means.
There's a long moment where nothing happens, until Shige says quietly, "I can't. It would be like if you asked me to kiss Koyama."
"I sent Koyama to play with Pi," Ryo says nonchalantly. "They're a good match."
"He wants you to kiss me?" Massu whispers.
"Yes," Ryo snaps. "And I'm getting sick of waiting."
Shige is still, completely unmoving, hands fisted together. It's obvious he's not going to do something, so Massu does.
With a single soft hand on his thigh, Massu gets Shige's attention; and all he needed was a slight turn of the head. Shige tries to pull away, but Massu follows, his lips gentle against Shige's. They back right up into the arm rest, where Shige gets trapped, and Massu pulls out of the kiss, though he stays lingering in Shige's personal space.
"I was hoping for a more than G-rated kiss," Ryo mutters, in obvious annoyance.
And this time, oddly enough, it's Shige that leans forward, like he's thinking this maybe isn't a horrible set up. He presses up against Massu, his breath hot and moist, and doesn't wait for Massu to reciprocate, just dives right into the kiss.
Ryo laughs, "I knew you had it in you, Shige."
Ryo directs their movement from a few feet away; always in a quiet voice, but strong with authority.
-
The next time they all meet up for a group thing, Ryo is the third to arrive, beaten to the dressing room by Koyama and Tegoshi.
It's a bit of an odd site though, because Koyama's face is flushed a full, dark red, and Tegoshi just looks smug. He doesn't ask, and they don't tell, but Ryo likes to think that whatever was going on before he got there might end up indirectly benefitting him one way or another.
-
A couple days later, Shige and Yamapi make a quick retreat out of rehearsals, mumbling something about getting drinks together on their way out. It's not weird, and Ryo drags Tegoshi home with him.
He gets a drunken text message from Yamapi hours later saying, "Shige thinks you're mean."
Ryo hands his phone to Tegoshi, who's curled up on the couch next to him. "I'm going to dictate my replies to you. 'Shige likes it, so don't listen to his complaining'."
When Yamapi's answer comes, Tegoshi reads with an almost awe-filled voice. "'He said you made him kiss Massu'."
"If he hadn't of enjoyed it, he wouldn't have kissed back so ardently." And right after the message is sent, Ryo continues, "Tegorin, send one too, of whatever you want. But, let Pi know it's you."
Tegoshi nods and thinks for a moment before typing and sending his, still using Ryo's cell phone.
"'Is that so?' followed by a winking face."
Ryo laughs. "What did your message say?"
Tegoshi looks up at Ryo through his bangs, smiling widely. "'Shige tastes sweet'."
Ryo smirks, and thinks that Tegoshi-Koyama thing is definitely working to his advantage.
-
Massu and Yamapi are friends, but not Yamapi-&-Ryo or Koyama-&-Shige friends, just casual, chit-chat-in-the-dressing-room or in-the-manager's-car friends.
Which is why it's a little odd when Ryo finds them together, talking in hushed tones in a back hallway.
Yamapi sees him first, jolting away from Massu and looking stressed. When Massu sees him, he just gives a casual wave and pokes Yamapi in the shoulder.
Ryo doesn't know what's going on, but he backs away, around the corner and out of sight.
He doesn't miss it, when much later in the day, he spies the two comparing their biceps, unabashedly feeling up each other's upper arms with a less than platonic aura around them.
-
"I'm all for member love," Koyama mutters as Ryo pushes him against the wall in his apartment. "But are you sure this is a good idea?"
"Trust me," Ryo whispers. "It's fine."
When Ryo gnaws gently on his neck, Koyama trembles and fists his hands in Ryo's shirt.
"You can start worrying when I shove you and Shige in a room with a bottle of lube and a handful of condoms."
Koyama physically stiffens and wiggles awkwardly in Ryo's arms. "I- That's. Ryo-chan."
"I'm being careful where it matters, so stop. Being. Whiney."
Koyama relaxes and nods a little, obviously trusting in Ryo's judgement.
-
Ryo lets things grow with as little meddling on his part as possible. Sometimes a specific look or snap is necessary to move things in the right direction, but it's rare that they're needed. He Just looks on carefully and happily as Tegoshi gets comfortable with using Yamapi as a human body pillow, and Shige is unable to refuse Massu the last piece of Uni sushi on the catering tray, and Koyama tickles soft fingers around Yamapi's hips while they practice a new accent dance and Massu lets Tegoshi fuss with his hair and clothing style and Yamapi uses Shige's chopsticks and drinks from his water bottle without asking, because he knows Shige won't be upset with him.
In all the dancing with (as opposed to around) each other, the unchanged familiarity between Shige and Koyama doesn't escape Ryo's notice. They're ever the same, static in their platonic relationship. At first, Ryo finds it frustrating, but as he watches them more, planning a third follow up to Chirarizumu and Muralist, he decides it's not such a bad thing. He'll let them be until they're ready, if they ever are; let them choose the pace of advancement, if they so want it to be. And, in his benevolence, he extends that sentiment to TegoMasu too, because while Massu has started letting Tegoshi play with his hair, Ryo realizes how big of a step that is, and that he should be thankful for even the most meaningless seeming of positive growth.