From Vain to Dandy Chapter 18

Chapter 18
How dare you defile my center, Kenichi Sakurada. Joel Eduardo glared around at the flowers decorating his usual spotless center. Everywhere, he could only make out more vegetation. This was ridiculous and definitely Asia's idea. However, he hadn't expected the perpetrator to be one of his own workers instead. The young man with red designer lens was sitting on top of the stairs smirking down at Joel. What a dirty comment, Joel, Kenichi said with mischievous eyes. I personally find the center friendlier this way. Where's the evil mastermind behind this? Joel growled. She's training the new guy in Mandy's place. Joel frowned. That's just an excuse to meet him. Excuse or not, Mandy initiated it, Kenichi said. Joel lifted a brow. Just in case you're wondering, Mandy has already left for Florida early this morning. She'll be staying with Matt and taking care of unfinished business at that branch. How long will she be gone? Joel asked under his breath. Until Asia returns to Florida. Joel stared, unblinking at Kenichi. In other words, after you leave the center again. Kenichi smirked proudly. When are you planning on returning to your top secret mission, Kenichi Sakurada? I have until Monday, Kenichi answered. You'll be staying for the weekend, then, Joel said thoughtfully. Staying? Kenichi said, standing up now. Don't get ahead of yourself, Joel. Kenichi started descending the stairs. I never said I would be a good little boy and work around here with the rest of you. You'd rather stalk Blaine West instead? I have no interest in him, Kenichi said in a deadly cold voice. He stopped in front of Joel. I also have no interest in taking a three-day vacation either. Kenichi leaned closer to Joel. You know what I want, Joel. Only you can give it to me. Joel snickered and took a step back from Kenichi. Spit it out. I don't feel like mind reading this early in the morning. Very well, Kenichi said, crossing his arms. Technically, I am still on my longterm, away from home mission. I haven't completed it yet. Kenichi rocked back and forth on his heels. Therefore I demand the same pay, even if I remain at the center to work for a couple of days. How boring and predictable, Joel said, rolling his eyes. What shall it be, Joel? Kenichi asked with unwavering gaze at Joel. Thanks to JP, I know the current dilemma our precious center is in. Kenichi playfully leaned toward Joel with a mischievous glint in his eyes. You can't afford to bargain with me this time around. I wouldn't dream of it, Joel said calmly, surprising Kenichi. Our goals are similar this time around, Kenichi Sakurada. Kenichi studied Joel for any sign of deception. I need a stand-in and you are the best stand-in I can hope for. Stand-in? Kenichi repeated. Within seconds, Kenichi laughed bitterly out

loud. He was never good at keeping his cool. What the fuck are you planning, Joel? It will be quite troublesome for me if your regulars were to find out about your return, Joel continued, watching Kenichi snickering in agreement. Therefore, I know the perfect place for you during your short stay at our center. I don't give a shit where you put me, Kenichi said confidently, wrapping his arms in front of his chest. Will it be the same pay? As promised, Joel said, smirking. They shook hands. Though after this, you can decide whether it's worth it or not. *** Good morning, Justin, Blaine greeted as he entered the kitchen. Good morning, darling! At the touch of a beautiful, young woman hugging him, Blaine should have been surprised and demanded who she was and why she was in his kitchen this early in the morning. But lately, he somehow became so adapted to random people appearing before him that he could not visibly show any emotion. In a way, Blaine believed it was quite sad that he grew accustomed to something so unnatural. Smiling in a carefree manner, Blaine greeted her and removed her from his body before he got a closer look at her gleaming face under the morning sun. She was remarkably beautiful with long brown hair and large brown eyes. Overall, she had healthy characteristics fitting of someone like her. I can't help myself at the sight of such a handsome, young man, the newcomer said as she sat back down in her seat. Justin was also there, but he was occupied with reading the newspaper. My name is Asia! Nice to meet you, Blaine West! One of the branch managers, Blaine said, reaching his hand out to her. Pleasure to meet you, too, Miss Asia. What a strong handshake, Asia said, mesmerized by the handshake shared between them. I prefer a kissing greeting instead, but alas, Asia threw Justin a pitying glance. We shouldn't disturb your roommate, Justin. How unfortunate, Blaine said, already adjusting himself to interacting with this flirtatious woman. We will have to postpone it until Justin leaves. Justin sighed and stood up. I got it. I have to buy some stuff anyways. You're shopping again? asked Blaine, frowning after the other man. I haven't bought anything in two weeks, Justin said in reminder. Give the man a break, Blaine, Asia said, smiling sweetly up at Justin. I would die if I don't go shopping every weekend. Have a nice day, young man. Watch out for scammers out there. After the door closed behind Justin, Blaine returned his full attention to the woman in front of him and said, That was quite unusual of him. He was quite excited to see me at first until I asked for you, Asia answered. Blaine frowned. I apologize for him. He hasn't adjusted to my new job yet. So, you're officially working for One Heart now? asked Asia with her head on top of her clasped hands. She was smiling playfully at Blaine. Dandy Mandy managed to persuade you with her charms? More like her competitiveness, Blaine said calmly. She is competitive, Asia agreed. So am I.

Asia absorbed his words before she laughed and said, I can see why you are the Blaine West everyone's been talking about. You sincerely believe you can be as perfect as Miss Mandy. Blaine chose not to laugh this time and Asia caught on quickly. Oh, you are serious. Did she send you here? Blaine said, still maintaining his charming smile. Yes and no, Asia said. I've decided to prolong my stay in California a while longer. Blaine nodded once before Asia continued, So I asked Dandy Mandy to take care of my center for me. It's been a while since she visited the people there anyways. It's a nice opportunity for both parties. By that logic, you are here on her behalf, then. Asia winked. Bingo. I volunteered to train you in her place for a couple of days. Asia giggled and gazed hungrily at Blaine. I know it's not what she or you are used to, but we can both learn a thing or two from trying something new. Blaine laughed. Very well. We're good, then? said Asia, delighted. Yes, said Blaine without a hint of doubt in his voice. I am not afraid of the unknown. Blaine picked up an orange in the basket in the middle and started peeling the skin off. Mandy claims I have the ability to lead this company to greatness, therefore the instructor shouldn't matter. If I fail, it is my own fault for not living up to such high expectations. Asia watched Blaine's peeling carefully. But you don't believe that, do you? In failure? Blaine said with arched brow. Asia nodded in anticipation. I am supposedly God's 'chosen one'. It will be an insult to the great man himself. The battle between religion and science right before my eyes, Asia said with a crazed excitement on her face. Blaine's eyes lit up. Science? Oh? Asia caught the change in Blaine. You enjoy the study of science? A long time ago, Blaine said in a neutral voice. He had not really studied any subjects outside of parenting classes for a while. But never mind that. Why would you even bring it up? If you stand for religion, Miss Mandy represents science. With a clear mental image of the willful Mandy, Blaine said in a lowered tone, What do you mean by that? Thanks for the treat, Asia said, snatching the now naked orange from Blaine's hands. Asia used her long fingernails to take apart the orange. We should be discussing your training, not Mandy's past. What a shame, Blaine said, meaning every word. But, Asia said with a devious smile. I'll talk if you talk. Blaine smirked. A reasonable bargain. What would you like to know? What's the difference between you and me? Quite a vague question, Miss Asia, said Blaine calmly. The branch manager plopped an orange wedge in her mouth and swallowed the fruit before she continued. I should be the perfect candidate to be Miss Mandy's business partner. I am a woman, unlike the rest of you. Asia checked Blaine's facial features from top to bottom to find him fascinated by her words. Where did I fail her? Why must she turn to a man like you instead? Knowing that founder of yours, she dodge all your inquiries successfully. Asia smirked. On the contrary, I never brought up the topic with her.

You expect her to discuss the secrets of her brilliant mind with a newcomer such as myself? Blaine said, amused. Even if I am the one involved? Of course not, said Asia sweetly after she swallowed the last orange wedge. I am more interested in the workings of your analytical mind, Blaine West. Convince me why you are better for the position than the fabulous me. Blaine shook his head. I thought so. He stood up and poured himself a cup of coffee that Justin left for him. Although we have not been acquainted for too long, I can safely say that there is no real difference between us, Miss Asia. Blaine stared at the dark liquid. If anything, our difference is nothing more than illusion, though it might be mental. Mental? Mandy never saw you as a viable option for the position so therefore, you never saw yourself in that position either. I can tell from our conversation thus far. Asia met Blaine's eyes with a perplexed expression when he faced her again with coffee in hand. In other words, all this time I have been so comfortable with my manager job that I stopped overreaching. Asia laughed bitterly. I am even less worthy to be Miss Mandy's partner than Ellie who is willing to fall in ranks to confront you face to face... Since I kept my end of the bargain, Blaine said, sitting down. I hope Miss Asia will also do the same. With a playful expression in her eyes similar to that of Mandy, Asia crossed her legs and threw her head back. How far back should I go? Where should I begin? She snapped her fingers. After high school graduation, I went straight to film school in New York to- I do not mean to be rude, Miss Asia, but what does film school have anything to do with Mandy Monroe? said Blaine. Asia smirked. I said I'll talk, but not about Miss Mandy. Blaine hid his disappointment. Perhaps another occasion, then. Sure! Now, where was I? Film school. The beautiful woman played with a curl between her fingers. I studied for a year or so before I got involved with some shady people and the pornography industry. I needed money fast and the opportunity came up for me. Blaine scanned her face and chest briefly before he spoke up, May I be so bold as to ask what type of porn star you were, Miss Asia? Lesbian pornography, usually with hair fetishism undertones. I hear that actresses in that sub-genre are not actual lesbians. Asia laughed at how calm Blaine's face was. You know a lot about everything, Blaine West. Miss Mandy mentioned to me that you are quite a data collector- I can see it now. Blaine nodded, unashamed. I am. Taking the opportunity, Asia maneuvered around the table to Blaine's side and placed a perfectly manicured hand against his shoulder. You don't happen to need any more data in my specialized field, do you? At the suggestion, Blaine studied Asia's eyes carefully before he formulated a reply. I always need more data on such hobbies. Right when Asia smiled, Blaine continued, However, I am being paid by the hour and therefore, I want to keep our training professional and center-related until the center's closing time. Hobbies

should be saved for more appropriate times. Is that all right with you, Miss Asia? Smiling sweetly, Asia gripped his shoulder. I like a man who has his priorities straight. Asia traced her fingers along his collarbone. I actually have a present for you to celebrate our first training session together. I cannot accept such a present, said Blaine, shaking his head. I assure you that if you decline my present, you will regret it. Blaine glanced away before he looked back at her with a perfect smile. I suppose it cannot hurt to take a peek. While Asia fumbled with her bag, Blaine checked her face again and tried to calculate her age. He would guess around twenty-five or so, but after being off with both Joel and Mandy, he was not assuming anything anymore. At last, she pulled out a binder and dropped it on the kitchen table. There appeared to be pages of files in it. Asia allowed Blaine to freely browse through the pages while she explained further. My close friend and co-worker Jay is also a data collector like yourself, Asia said, standing behind Blaine and watching him flip through the pages over his right shoulder. He began this system where Miss Monroe can assess our conversationalists' strengths and weaknesses through observed data. Before I go on, have you grasped One Heart's membership system yet? Joel Eduardo drew me a detailed tree with glittery pens. Must have been one hell of a useful tree. Blaine pointed at the page with Logan Holly's name and profile picture. Under 'Forum', Logan Holly is marked with the letter 'M' while he is a mere 'D' in 'Phone Calls'. May I assume the letter system is similar to the one used back in high school except with this extra letter 'M'? Exactly, Asia said. But of course since these men are scouted out personally by Miss Monroe, none of them have an 'F' in any category. 'M' is higher than 'A', then? Yes! 'M' stands for mastering. Fascinating, said Blaine with his eyes lingering on Logan's 'B' on 'Long Term'. I would ask for a more detailed chart with all the percentages and raw data on everyone, but I am certain you do not have such in-depth information at your current proposal. Blaine glanced up at Asia, who laughed. This will have to do for now, though I must admit that I am very disappointed that your page is not conveniently provided in here for me to absorb. I can tell you my data if you like, Asia suggested with a smirk. Actually, Blaine said after he finished looking through the binder. There are only records of the conversationalists at the California Branch. Blaine chuckled and shook his head. You shouldn't have hacked into Joel Eduardo's computer for me. Kenny was more than happy to, Asia said, acting innocent. Kenny... Blaine said, returning back to the page he saw the name. In the middle of the binder, he found a 'Kenichi Sakurada' and assumed this was the person she was speaking of. Oh, yes. The only member of the California Branch I have yet to meet. Joel Eduardo informed me that he is out on a three-month mission. Well, he was, Asia said. He's back for this weekend. Blaine lifted his eyes at her. Back at the center? Maybe, maybe not, the Florida Branch manager said with a shrug. He's

unpredictable. I can text him if you want. Asia leaned forward, hovering over Blaine's shoulder. Why are you so interested in my darling, Kenny? Shaking his head, Blaine indicated at Kenichi's file. This man is an almost straight A student and with a couple of 'M' in 'Long Term' and 'One-on-One'. His only real shortcoming is a 'D' in 'Letter', which must be letter writing since Jake Parke is a master in that category on his page. Feeling competitive already, Blaine West? Does a page on Mandy even exist? Asia was a bit taken back by the sudden excitement in Blaine's usual dull eyes. Miss Monroe doesn't need a page. Everyone, especially Jay, knows she's perfect. It makes sense since she's the one who even thought of this whole system. You asked me the difference between us earlier... I did, Asia agreed. This is an example of why you are not chosen. Frowning, Asia dropped her eyes as her hair scattered across the page. Because I believe Miss Monroe is perfect? Unexpectedly, Blaine nodded firmly and moved his body so that they were facing each other despite her standing and him sitting. Her founding everything is not a good enough excuse to say she is the master of everything. It is even more illogical to call her perfect because of her position as founder of One Heart. So, you are saying Miss Monroe is not perfect? That is precisely my claim. Asia laughed and walked a few steps away from Blaine with her back to him. You have known her for quite some time now. Has she ever failed at anything? No, she has not, said Blaine. Even if perfection does not exist theoretically, Asia said in a lowered tone. Miss Monroe is the closest example of it. I agree with you. Asia whirled back to look at him. Then, why- Someone who is perfect cannot be surpassed in anything, Blaine stated. He stood up now with the binder in his grasp. I will prove that Mandy Monroe can lose... that she will lose... Blaine smiled confidently at Asia. Many, many times. You really like my gift then, said Asia, placing a hand on her hip. Thank you very much, Miss Asia, said Blaine politely. Asia is fine with me, Asia said, returning to their almost nonexistent gap. Although I love Miss Monroe with all my heart, you can count on me to help you in your ambition... even if it's only to see how far you manage to go before you give up. Blaine chuckled. You really dislike me being Mandy's soulmate. Oh, I do, said Asia, amused. Because it's rightfully Timmy's spot. Timothy Patrick of the DC Branch. Yes, that's Timmy. Smirking now, Blaine glanced away and shook his head. You love him and yet, you want him to be Mandy's soulmate. I love him, but I love One Heart more, Asia said without a doubt in her voice. Timmy, Eduardo, LeDuke, and I love One Heart the most. Asia sighed at Blaine showing a slight sign of surprise. If it were not for One Heart, I would still be

in that industry. I wouldn't have met Miss Monroe. I wouldn't have met Timmy. I wouldn't be who I am today. But, Asia hardened her eyes at Blaine. Timmy loves One Heart second to only Miss Monroe and that's why he should be her partner, not you. Then show me, said Blaine calmly. Show you? Show me the One Heart you love so dearly. Asia's pulse quickened. Do you mean- I do not want to be taught anything Miss Monroe can teach me herself, Blaine said with a sweet smile. You cannot possibly love One Heart the same way as her. I want you to teach me to love this center of yours. I want to understand your feelings, Miss Asia. And I also want to prove to you and everyone else that Mandy did not make a mistake gambling on me. Blaine West, said Asia in a gentler voice than before. I said I will help you any way I can so I'm not planning on backing down. Blaine held out his hand to her. Let's work hard together. Asia accepted his hand. Very well. How should we start? You can start by giving me Kenichi Sakurada's number. *** Good morning, Logan Holly. Good morning- Logan screamed and jumped back a few feet away from where he was with his arms in front of his naked body protective. Joel! The tanned man threw Logan a lazy glance as he entered the room. What are you doing here? This is a staff changing room, Joel said dryly. And I am part of the staff. But, Logan said, recovering. You never change in here. Life is full of surprises, Joel said, opening his designated locker. There was literally nothing inside. Deal with it. I hear grumpiness, Jake said, unbuttoning his shirt on the way in. He stopped next to Joel since their lockers were side by side. Why is the Boss changing with low lives like us? To compare muscles obviously, Joel said, rolling his eyes. He placed a neat pile of clothes in his locker on top of a rug for his locker. This place is so unsanitary. Joel shook his head while Jake threw his shirt carelessly in his locker. Unbelievable. You men are supposed to be perfect. We are, Jake said in a tired voice. Just lazy. Logan sighed. Or depressed. Or both. That, too. Pathetic, Joel said, taking off his shirt in one swift motion. The other two stared at him because they had never seen Joel without a shirt on before. So, this is the attitude of the best men in the country after something doesn't go their way. Joel folded his shirt. No wonder this center is faring so poorly. You're naturally tanned, Jake said with his eyes glued on Joel's chest. Joel threw Jake a hard look. Did you hear a word I just said, Jake Parke? Nope, too mesmerized. Is there something going on between you two I should know about? Logan said, looking back and forth between Joel and Jake. Yes, said Jake.

No, said Joel at the same time. At around this time, Elliot joined the others with his keys swinging, but stopped abruptly when his eyes landed on Joel wearing on a dress shirt. Even though Elliot had only began working at this center recently, he knew something was off when their branch manager suddenly showed up somewhere he usually wouldn't be seen in. After all, Joel was a creature of habit. Pretending that he never showed up in the first place, Elliot backed out of the room and closed the door quietly behind him. Back to the topic at hand, said Joel through gritted teeth. He was the only one out of the three who noticed Elliot's presence a few seconds ago. Kenichi will be replacing me this weekend. As branch manager? Jake said, hopeful. He will be on the phone, Joel clarified. But, Logan said, frowning. Where will you be? Jake smirked. Taking a vacation, are we? Actually, yes, said Joel, much to Jake and Logan's surprise. I will be taking a day off on Sunday to celebrate Vlad's birthday. The other two nodded, too stunned to speak. Until then though... Joel bowed like a butler. I will be assisting the rest of you by talking to our members... in person. You're leaving your office? Logan cried. Our commander? The horror, said Jake. Joel placed the rest of his belongings in the locker before he slammed it shut. Haven't either of you heard that when morale is down, the commander must pick up his weapon and fight in the front lines alongside his men? Joel turned his back to the other two. I'll show you how a real man interacts with women. Joel tossed them a smirk over his shoulder. Maybe steal a couple of members for myself... We're in trouble, Jake said after Joel closed the door. Logan dropped his eyes. He sounds serious... He is serious. Miss Mandy Monroe... said Logan under his breath. Jake patted Logan on the shoulder. I'm not, but you're stronger than this, Logan. You don't have to return to that lifestyle. Go out there and stop Joel from enchanting all your members. You too, Jake, Logan said, smiling weakly at his companion. You are the most popular conversationalist of our branch for a reason. Everyone loves you. At the thought of Mandy over in the Florida Branch and everything else that happened between them earlier in the week, Jake glanced away. Yeah. I guess so. *** Why, said Cherry at the sight of Justin at her front door. Why are you here? I want to see you, Cher, Justin said. Cherry frowned. You should be in front of your laptop, playing some online game instead. Cherry watched as Justin's face fell. His mood was so easy to read, unlike Blaine. Are you being considerate for once and leaving Blaine alone with Mandy, Justin? It's not Mandy, said Justin. It's someone else. You can whine to me all about it over the phone instead, Cherry suggested. Suddenly, Justin glared at Cherry and raised his voice. Didn't you hear me,

Cher? I want to talk to you in person. Cherry glared back at him. I will not tolerate that tone from you. S-Sorry, said Justin quickly, realizing how he sounded like a second ago. Upon hearing the apology, Cherry softened her expression. I have to study. It won't take longer than an hour, Justin insisted, shyly glancing away. It's never an hour, Justin. I'll buy you anything you want. Cherry's eyes lit up. Anything? Justin knew he was speaking her language now. Anything... under fifty bucks. Cheapskate, Cherry said with a pout. Fine, Justin said, exasperated. Under sixty. My friendship cannot be bought, said Cherry, amused. She wanted to play with Justin and his obsession over money. Neither can my time. Aw, come on, Cher, Justin said as he grabbed a hold of her arm. Go home, Justin, Cherry said, removing his arm and pushing him lightly away from her. Blaine's a problem solver. If you have a problem with him or his company, confront him about it. Justin shook his head. You have that much faith in Blaine? He tries to satisfy everyone around him, so yes. I'm jealous like always. Jealousy is a waste of time, Cherry said sternly. So is whining. Cherry ignored Justin's hurt expression. Now if you'll excuse me, I will return to not failing my classes, thank you very much. Justin held the edge of Cherry's door with his right hand so she couldn't close it successfully. Annoyed, Cherry contemplated kicking Justin away. Between Justin and her, she was definitely the stronger one. But at the same time, she understood why he was here and therefore, her heart wouldn't allow her to kick him. Instead, she grumbled and permitted him to intrude himself on her. If I help you study, can you listen to me afterward? Justin said in a plea. Cherry blinked at Justin's change of tactics. I'd rather study alone and we take different classes. I'll pick up your brothers from school, said Justin. Do you even know where they go to school? No, but you can tell me, Justin said, forcing a smile. It can't be too hard. They might know you, Justin, but not your car. I'll wait outside for them. Cherry peered at Justin suspiciously. What will you do before they're out from school, then? Stay with you? I knew it, Cherry said, sighing. Justin laughed it off. However, Cherry could already feel her grip on the doorknob on the other side slipping. I suppose if you pick up my brothers from school, I can lend you an hour of my time... Justin perked up. Really, Cher? But, Cherry said, forcing Justin to hold back his excitement. Only under one condition. You name it. You have to promise me that whatever you tell me, you have to tell Blaine.

Ugh, Justin said, frustrated. It's always Blaine... If you have a problem with me, talk to me, Cherry said. If you have a problem with Blaine, talk to Blaine. So, Cherry lifted a brow. Unless what you're about to say has everything to do with me, you must promise to relate back to Blaine. Justin sighed. Will you at least help me? Cherry allowed a weak smile. If it's solvable. Cher, Justin cried. He gave her a side hug. You're the best! Man, Cherry said as she allowed him inside. This has been a huge waste of time so far. You better treat my brothers out for ice cream or something.