As he read the text, it was all Akihito could do to hold back a scream of frustration. His submission had been rejected, again.

"Asami, you have to stop doing this," he said evenly.

"Oh, really?" His . . .lover arched one perfect eyebrow at him before sitting up in bed and lighting a cigarette. For the third time since they had returned from Hong Kong, Asami had blocked Takaba's photo submissions to the paper.

"Two of my assignments had absolutely nothing to do with you or your business. I know you think it's hilarious to piss me off, but I'd like to make rent next month." Asami's expression darkened.

"Just keep living here and you won't have to," he said dismissively.

"I've spent enough time confined and subject to the whims of a madman this year, but thanks anyway," Takaba scoffed as he searched for his underwear between the sheets. Asami did not care for the implication that he was no different from Feilong.

"I'm surprised you're so eager to get into trouble again. The people you've photographed would love to get their hands on you, but," he added harshly, "maybe you like that?" Takaba flinched. He was just trying to get his old self back, and that meant being brave enough to do his old job, knowing all too well the dangers. Asami noticed he'd struck a chord and continued in a calmer tone. "How long do you plan to work like this, hm? Your body won't be able to keep up forever. It might . . . benefit you to have a wider experience in your field for when you're too old to outrun anybody who might be chasing you."

"What, like taking wedding photos again?" Takaba shot back sarcastically as he wiggled into his camo briefs.

"Grown-ups realize that not every aspect of their job is ideal," Asami growled as his patience thinned.

"Grown-ups are boring," Takaba said dismissively.

"Oh, really?" Asami purred with a sly grin. Akihito's mouth went dry as he recognized the look.

"No. No way. I have work tomor-"

"I've already cancelled your next job and told your editor not to give you anymore assignments of that nature if he values his life."

Akihito froze; he was too furious to speak. He had to leave, or else he was going to punch the bastard right in that damn sexy, smug mouth, and that would end poorly for his ass. Asami watched the color drain from Takaba's face and was disappointed when he didn't explode. He wasn't sure he liked this recently acquired self-control. It made it harder to see what the other was thinking. Takaba gathered up his clothes and walked out of the bedroom stiffly. A couple minutes later, Asami heard the door to the penthouse open and slam shut. He took a long, exasperated drag on his cigarette and sighed. Can't you see what I'm trying to do, Akihito?