Kill this attitude

 A week later, we were finally discharged from the hospital. Red headed back to the mafia in a wheelchair while I was using crutches to move around. I still wore Evan’s skirt.

We were picked up by Evan and Aoi and were driven to a large five star hotel. Evan drove right towards the underground parking lot, then, he went to the lowest level. Evan parked the car at E-86, which was a reserved parking spot.

The ceiling was low, the light was yellow and the ground was a dirty gray. There were lots of cars parked here. I don’t like this place as it feels like a scene out of those zombie apocalypse movies. I heard a drip coming from a leak somewhere, it echoed across the parking lot.

There was a security camera above parking spot E-86, Evan took out his GrayWolves executive card, which was disguised as a visa card, and he flashed it out at the camera. There was a beep as the camera scanned his card, then, Evan got back in the car as our parking spot lowered us deeper underground, taking us to the GrayWolves official headquarters!

Once the parking spot had completely lowered, there was a long, dark tunnel ahead of us. The walls were black, the ground was black, and it was lit up by the occasional yellow light. Evan drove along it. I looked out the window and saw the lights passing by faster and faster until it all blurs into a seemingly endless yellow line. A couple minutes later, we arrived at another parking lot, this one was a lot cleaner. There was colorful art on all the walls, the ceiling was high and the lighting was good. There were lots of cars parked there already. This was the GrayWolves parking lot.

Evan parked the car close to the entrance. We got out, and we all took out our GrayWolves cards as we took turns having it scanned by the security. The entrance opened automatically after that, and we came inside.

The walls were filled with paintings and drawings, while the floor was a pure white marble. I saw a muscular figure up ahead, he was humming a cheerful tune while mopping the floor. I think I recognize this song, it’s from some anime.

“Hey Josh! You have cleaning duties today huh?” I greeted him. Josh had a large scar over his right eye, and a heart tattoo on his left bicep. He used to be part of a gang called the Midnight-Riders, they were a fierce mafia known for running down people with their modified bikes.

“Oh hey there boss! Yeah, I’m on cleaning duty, though only for this floor.” Replied Josh as he took his right hand and hit his chest twice. I leaned my crutch against the wall as I greeted him back with it.

“What anime are you planning to start now? I heard the one you were following had just finished airing today.” Asked Evan as he also took his right hand and hit his chest twice.

“I’m thinking of a Romcom or slice of life.” Replied Josh.

“Seriously? Another Romcom? I’ve found this really cool Isekai that you should check out!” Said Aoi as she also did the greeting.

“Alright then, let me know of it once I’m done cleaning.” Said Josh as he went back to mopping the floor.

We then walked past Josh and went to the elevator. We were going to head up to the main lobby, which is where everyone hangs out during their break times.

The first thing I did when the elevator door opened was trip over a fire truck.

“AHH!” I screamed as the ground came closer and closer to me.

“I’m sorry!” Said a woman in her 20s. She had her black hair tied up into a bun and on her back was her 3 year old son.

“It’s fine Hana, kids are like this” I said as Aoi helped me stand up.

“Anyways, I’m glad you’re back boss! I’ve finished negotiating with the Ginza Royals, they said they would come for the interview.”

The Ginza Royals… who were they again?

Oh, right. They were the new mafia that had started up in Ginza, however, I sent the order for them to be brought down before they became a threat to the GrayWolves. From the news of an interview happening, it seems that we were successful, and they might be joining the GrayWolves!

“Oh wait, why were you the one negotiating?! That’s a dangerous job, don’t forget that you’re a momma now!” My eyes were full of worry as I scolded her. Hana used to be part of the Tokyo Ravens, the gang that Aoi came from. She was definitely a tough woman, however, she still hasn’t realized the fact that she is a mother now.

“But just laying around all day is not exciting enough! My body is craving danger!” Complained Hana.

“What happens if you were to be injured? Or worse, die?! Then Shinji would be left without a mother, and Nagomu would be left without a wife!” After saying that, Hana’s eyes widened at the truth of the matter.

“Hai Bawse!” Said Shinji as he heard his name.

“Haii Shinjiii!” I replied back with a wave.

“Y-you’re right boss. But I just want to contribute something to the mafia…”

“You can start working in the kitchen tomorrow, be the best cook you can be!! That’s an order from me!”

“Yes boss!” Said Hana as she took her right hand and thumped her chest twice. I did the same. Then, she ran off with Shinij giggling on her back.

“Wait! You’re firetruck damnit!” I called after her, however, she was too far away to hear me. I will give this to Nagomu later when I see him.

“You’re such a worrier, Gray,” Said Aoi as she smiled. “I’m sure you would make a great dad!”

“Mafia members who are parents are such a handful” I signed.

“If Gray becomes a daddy, who would the mommy be?” Said Red with a smile, Evan also smiled along with him.

“I have to prepare for the interview with the Ginza Royals, Aoi, you will be doing it with me. Evan, you bring Red to his room so he can rest.” I commanded as I tried to change the subject.

“Alright!” Said Evan as he pushed Red to his room.

“You should be resting too!” Scolded Aoi.

“It’s fine, I have you there to protect me in case things get violent. Plus, I would like to personally see all the new recruits.” I said as I steeled my gaze.

“Fine, there’s no convincing you when you’re like this.” Said Aoi as she gave in. “But the moment I see your life in danger, I won’t hesitate to kill.” She added with a burning cold stare.

“Thanks”

Aoi and I walked together for a bit, we decided to check up on how everything and everyone is doing. In the main lobby, people were on their phones and chatting with each other, some of them had brought their kids down here, who were scampering around the massive hall.

The main lobby along with the children’s land, apartments and the executive rooms were all located in the heart of the mafia. This was the safest place to be.

We headed over to the children’s land, which was one of my favorite places. Children’s land was a large indoor park, we have trees and grass that stretch as far as the eyes can see.

I saw a mother and father with their children, they were blowing bubbles together. I turned around and caught Aoi staring at them fondly. She blushed and quickly looked away.

“Alright, let's head over to the apartments.” I said as we headed over to the elevator. We went up to the floor and came out. The first thing I did was bump into Maria.

“AHH!” I screamed as the ground came closer to me again. However, an arm quickly went under my armpit and in front of my chest, my fall was halted.

“まったく” (Jeez) Signed Aoi as she helped me up. “How many times are you going to fall over today?

ごめん! ごめん! (Sorry! Sorry!) I apologized to both Aoi and Maria.

“Oh hi there boss!” Said Maria, she seemed happy to see me.

“What are you doing here?” I asked.

“I was doing room inspections. I caught Peter again with cigarettes! Next time I find them, I will move him to the outside apartments instead!”

“Alright Maria, good job today. You can deal with Peter later, it’s almost time for lunch!” As soon as I finished saying that, the lunch bell rang.

“Well speaking of lunch! Haha! Will do!” Said Maria as she bounded off to the cafeteria.

“Shall we head over to the executives quarter for lunch?” Asked Aoi.

“Nah, let's go to the main caf. I feel like eating with everyone else today.”

“Same here” Nodded Aoi in approval.

We got back in the elevator and headed down towards the cafeteria. When we arrived, the massive cafeteria was bustling with activity. There were chefs running about, replenishing the trays of food set out, there were people lining up to grab theirs and others who have already settled down.

The cafeteria was set up in a buffet style, with over 50 trays of food laid out, you can have whatever you want and as much as you want. It looks like today’s theme was Italian food! I eyed the pizza section hungrily.

Everyone was all spread out and mixed. Different people from different gangs eating together, it was a satisfying sight. When I first took control of the Gray Wolves, the different gangs always sat together, and lunch time seemed like a battlefield. It’s nice that with the new laws in place, everyone accepted each other as one of their own.

There was some commotion happening at a large group near the middle of the cafeteria. I went with Aoi to check it out. As we were heading over, everyone started clapping and cheering, and I could catch a glimpse of a large pink birthday cake.

“Hai Bawse!!” Said Shinji as he waved at me from his seat.

“Haii there Shinji! Who’s the birthday girl here?” I asked as I bent down to pat his head.

“It’s Asuka! Her fourth bird-day!”

“Oh wow! Asuka is a big girl now!” Said Aoi.

“Yeah! But I’m gonna become one too soon!” Replied Shinji with a smile.

“Oh, congratulations!” Responded Aoi.

“Thank you yellow hair lady!”

I snickered as I tried to suppress my laugh. Shinji was too cute!

“Her name’s Aoi, Shinji! Don’t call her yellow hair lady.” Said Hana as she turned around.

“It’s fine, really.” Said Aoi with a smile.

We decided to sit with the group and join in with the celebration, everyone was ecstatic to have us executives as part of the party. I gave the firetruck back to Hana and Shinji.

Being part of the celebration, I can’t help but think how happy these families are. Despite being raised in the mafia, they can still have birthday parties and all sorts of family events. It might even be better than having a normal family outside the mafia, since there are so many others here to support them.

These kids are going to grow up having a normal and happy childhood.

Yeah.

That’s right, I don’t need to leave the GrayWolves, I can raise a happy family right here! By doing so, I will find the answer to true strength!

I signed, feeling much more relieved. However, I still have a hint of doubt growing in my heart. Am I just looking for excuses to stay here!? Or maybe am I using this pursuit of true strength as a possible excuse to leave here?!

I suddenly grew cold as I realized what I had just thought.

むりむりむり! (that’s not possible!!!)

I shook my head. I must dismiss all of these thoughts!

After eating our lunch, Aoi and I left for the interview with the Ginza Royals.

We arrived at the interview room and went in. Sitting in the wooden chairs were 10 people, they wore red vests and bandanas. 3 women and 7 men, they gave us a cold stare as they saw me hobbling in while wearing Evan’s cosplay dress.

“Are you sure about coming in with the dress?” Whispered Aoi.

“First impressions are important.” I whispered back.

“That’s why I asked! Idiot” Muttered Aoi.

One of the men coughed, and we both turned around to face them. I guess we did make them wait a bit.

“Had a nice lunch guys? Our chefs are the best of the best!” I said as I tried to lighten the mood.

“The name’s Takaoka” Said the largest of the men. He had long black hair and red eyes. He looked like their leader, and also looked like he didn’t want any crap. Fine, I should be more direct.

“The name’s Gray, I’m sure you’ve heard of me.” I said in the most manliest voice I can muster. I hardened my yellow gaze and glared at the men. Takaoka smiled a bit.

“Your appearance does not match with your reputation.” Said Takaoka. “However, the elites are always weird people.”

“This getup was for a mission. I’m sure you can tell it was quite the dangerous one from my injuries.” I replied.

“Wow, he’s even willing to wear a skirt to complete his mission. How he gives up his dignity is not something everyone can do. I can see how he rose through the ranks of the underworld.” Whispered one of the ladies to the other.

I caught Aoi sneaking a smirk. That’s fine with me, as long as I give off the right impression, I don’t mind bending the truth a bit.

“Very impressive” Replied one of the other men. “I myself wouldn’t even go through such lengths. I guess as a new mafia, us Ginza Royals still have a lot to learn.” He said as the boss nodded in agreement.

“Very well, now that I made it clear as to what kind of person I am, let’s begin the interview shall we?” I said as Aoi helped me sit down on a chair.

“Thanks” I whispered to her.

“Don’t act so polite to me! Keep up the tough guy act.” She whispered back.

“Alright, first question. Why did you guys decide to join the Gray Wolves after the negotiations?” I asked this question while looking at the boss.

“Your negotiator, that cute lady named Hana, was good at negotiating.” Replied Takaoka.

“What exactly did she say?” This time I aimed this question at the lady with short black hair and a rose tattoo on her neck.

“The name’s Rose. Your negotiator said either we disband, die, or come in for an interview.”

“I guess the option was obvious enough” I said with a smile.

“Bet!” Replied Rose as she smiled back.

I suddenly felt a shiver down my spine. I turned to see Aoi, her stare was so cold that I felt a cool breeze blowing around. Right, back on track!

“Well, in the mafia we have several rules. First is to treat everyone with equal kindness and respect, no matter which gang you came from, we are all part of the GrayWolves now.”

I saw some of them scowl as they heard the rule.

“Second is no smuggling of contraband is allowed, this includes various drugs, animals, and cigarettes. We don’t allow private dealings and don’t allow smoking either.”

I heard someone kiss their teeth, I took a breath before announcing the last rule.

“Third and last rule is to follow your duties! As new recruits, you will start with cleaning and cooking, no complaints. Those who do not work will not get to eat.”

This time, Takaoka stood up and started walking towards me. He had his fist clenched so tightly I could see the veins of his muscular arm popping out. Aoi quickly stood up and went in front of him, her gun raised and pointed at him.

“Stop, or I will shoot.” She said, Her words were sharp, clear, and concise.

“Boss of the GrayWolves? Fuck that. Fuck these fucking rules! What kind of man has a woman around to protect him.” He said as he kept walking forward, unafraid of the gun Aoi was pointing at him.

“And you, blondie, you seem like the type who sucked up to him to rise the ranks! That’s right, nothing more than his dirty pet. I’m sure you did anything he asked of you” Takaoka sneered as he walked even closer to Aoi. Her gun’s barrel was pressed against his chest. I saw Aoi’s index finger curl tighter around the trigger.

Her eyes widened in surprise as a loud crack pierced through the air, and Takaoka fell down, he was dead. Her finger was still wrapped around the trigger, however, she hadn’t shot yet. She turned around to see me standing up, holding my bloodied crutch out with one hand. I patted my pants then sat myself down. I took a tissue to wipe the red off.

Everyone’s eyes were wide now. The air had a heavy silence. Fear now lingered in the atmosphere. They were all staring at me. I brushed my hair, composed myself, then took another breath before speaking.

“The crack was the sound of three things.” I said as I sweeped my gaze towards everyone.

“The first was the sound when my crutch hit Takaoka in the head” My voice was stable and cool. I saw everyone started clenching their fists, including Aoi.

“The second sound was the crack of my crutch, it snapped.” I said as I held my crutch out. At the middle of the metal crutch was a large crack. I then smashed the crutch onto the ground and it shattered in two.

“The third sound was the crack of Takaoka’s skull. His brain fluids stained my crutch.” After finishing that statement, two of them were bent over as they started to vomit. The others were blue with fear.

I stood up, and Aoi quickly rushed to my side to support me. I looked down at each recruit, piercing my gaze into theirs. My rage started welling up from the back of my throat, it rumbled more and more. Louder and louder until it bursted.

“YOU FUCKING IDIOTS! YOUR BOSS BROKE THE FIRST RULE! TREAT EVERYONE WITH EQUAL KINDNESS AND RESPECT!” I roared, and as I did, I lunged myself forward at them. Aoi used all her strength to hold me back.

“NOT ONLY DID HE SAY SHIT ABOUT MY COLLEAGUE, HE WAS A THREAT TO HER SAFETY AND WELLBEING! SHITHEADS LIKE HIM HAVE NO PLACE IN THIS WORLD! THEY WILL BE DISPOSED OF!” Saliva started dripping down my jaw as my teeth and fist clenched with anger.

“Calm down, I’m fine.” Said Aoi as she pushed me back into my chair.

“IT’S NOT FUCKING FINE! THEY…” The warmth of someone else’s hand pressed firmly against mine. The sensation of her tender fingers melted with mine as she squeezed it tight. Her palms were hot and wet with sweat. I glared at Aoi, however, seeing her soft Azure gaze calmed me. I felt like I could sink into them right now, and be wrapped eternally in her warmth.

I sat back down and took a sip of water.

“Sorry, I lost my cool there.” I apologized. “However, I don’t regret killing him. As long as you don’t put anyone here in danger, you will be looked after well.”

Their gazes were still wide with fear. I signed. This isn’t good, I don’t want them to be afraid of me. Think. Think! What can I do? What I need is their respect and loyalty. I looked at Aoi, she smiled and gave me a thumbs up. Right, that’s it!

“Let’s start over again. My name’s Gray, and I’m the boss of the GrayWolves mafia…” I started again, I looked around and saw the recruits glancing nervously at each other.

“I’m 21 this year, I like watching anime and reading manga. I’m not good with dogs and terrible at romance. I can be the most dense blockhead sometimes, Aoi knows this especially well.” I said as I shyly glanced at Aoi, she blushed and smiled back at me. Meanwhile, the recruits were starting to loosen up, some of them were even sporting a smile.

“My name’s Nagisa” Said a sturdy man. He had bright green eyes and dark orange hair. “I’m a cat person, at the Ginza Royals I would usually feed the strays there, I was hoping I could bring one of them here since he follows me everywhere I go.”

“That’s fine with me. Make sure you bring him to the vet first, and give me the doctor’s note as proof. Last thing I want is a flea infestation.” I told him with a stern gaze and a smile.

Nagisa breathed out and looked relieved. Then, one by one, the Ginza Royals slowly introduced themselves.

After the introductions, the atmosphere was calm and friendly, a stark contrast to the bashed up body that laid on the floor. I went over the rules once again, no one had any objections this time.

“We are the lawless who follow laws to break the law” I declared proudly. “This is how the GrayWolves run.” Then, I felt a bit light headed. Everything was spinning and blurry… Aoi took notice of my wobbling state and told me she will continue from here. I sat down with a bottle of water and listened.

“Unlike other mafias, we don’t want to rule with fear. We rule with the law. So if there is anything bothering you, you can always report to your superiors, there’s no need to be afraid. Now, any questions?” Asked Aoi as she scanned the room. One of the girls named iota raised her hand.

“So, umm. I dropped out of highschool last year, and I was thinking of continuing my education… ummm… is there a way I can go to school while being in the mafia?” She said as she twirled her straight pink hair in her fingers.

Aoi’s gaze softened as she realized this girl was still a highschooler. “You can return to your parents if you want to do that. Going to school while being in the mafia exposes us and you to dangers.”

“I…my parents left me… and…” Tears started coming down iota’s cheeks as she tried her best to hold them back. Her words trembled.

“There there. You’re alright, the GrayWolves won’t abandon you. We are all family here, all part of the same pack now.” Said Aoi as she embraced iota. “Everyone, the interview is over! Miyuki and Furukawa, dispose of the body! Hiro, take the new recruits to their rooms! iota, you stay back.”

Soon, everyone else left. In the room were just me, Aoi, and iota.

I sat there and listened while Aoi comforted her. Iota told us her entire story. We found out that her parents had divorced, however, none of them had wanted to take responsibility for her, so she was dumped at her uncle’s place. Her uncle was mentally unstable, he dealt in drugs. One night, she ran away when things got violent. She left home and school, and eventually wandered into the underworld.

After hearing her story, Aoi and I decided that iota would be living in the main apartments instead of the outer ones. We also discussed the possibility of setting up an education system within the mafia. When we told her the news, iota had a large teary smile as she hugged both me and Aoi.

iota was a good girl. A very good girl. Life really wasn’t fair for her, however, I hope we can help her in any way we can.

We roomed iota up with Hiro, one of our highest ranking members. Then, Aoi pushed me back to my room. She decided she would be moving in “for the time being” so that she can “take care of me.” All valid excuses she came up with to explain this. I was happy about it, however, I was a bit worried that this might spread some drama soon within the mafia.

Tonight, I slept on my bed while Aoi slept on the futon on the floor. She insisted since she was a restless sleeper and would fall off the bed anyways.

So she does know she’s a restless sleeper I thought as I rolled my eyes.

I laid down, my back was aching, my leg was hurting, and my head was spinning. I stared at the pearl white ceiling, lost in thought.

I realized something today, everyone who joined the mafia, something really terrible must have happened for them to be here. I don’t think they wanted to become lawless, however, the law and life must have treated them terribly. It pained me to think that there are so many other cases just like iota’s.

Tonight I was restless. I started humming, hoping the melody would lull me to sleep.

“An Ode to Summer Days?” Asked Aoi. She was still awake huh.

“Yeah” I replied back. I remember blowing this on the leaf for Aoi once. She still remembers it, even though that was ages ago.

Then, I heard a soft voice joining mine, creating a beautiful harmony that melted into the night.

Year after year, summers after summers

Again and again, summer will grow and flourish

All to the song the cicada sings

An Ode To Summer Days

“Good night Gray” Whispered Aoi.

“おやすみ" (Good night) I whispered back.