Before we go into the story, I would like to mention a few people who really gave me smiles today: a guest reviewer, Luv it, Tsuray, who has posted a review for every chapter I posted, and tux51512, who followed my story. Thank you guys so much. You give me power! :P Also, big thanks for all the people who've read and are reading The First and Last!

A/N: I do not have any rights to the Maid-sama franchise and the song Human by Christina Perri.

Hope you enjoy! Remember to R&R.

Chapter 3: The Singer

Takumi's POV

[in England]

It's been two days since I was reunited with my father. Dad lives in a flat at a condominium building owned by his company, Usui Global Enterprises. It's the business that he almost singlehandedly established through the years. He believed that by building a good reputation internationally and a worldwide influence, he will, one day, be able to take me back from my mother's ruthless family. I must say, he did succeed because, from what I've heard, that aside from the reasons said by my grandfather, my freedom was given to me due to pressure coming from a group of businessmen. I guess that was my dad, together with the allies that he has acquired from working very hard.

The two of us have been spending as much time possible with each other. We talked about my life back in the castle, though he tries not to pry to avoid bringing back bad memories. He told me stories about my two older siblings, who're living back at our home in Japan. He also brought me to the London branch office of Usui Global. I was also told that I will be leaving for Japan in about a week where I'll be continuing my studies and where our family can all live together. Dad said he was going to follow after he has ironed out some urgent business matters here.

Though I know my father wants to spend all the time he has with me within this week before my departure, I asked him to let me fly to Japan as soon as possible to let me adjust to my home country, that has been a stranger to me.

"Hmmm….I see. Okay, I'll let you leave earlier. I'll ask my secretary to book the earliest possible flight for you tomorrow. And I also need to notify your brother and sister. I'm sure they'll be─"

"About that," I interrupted. "I'd like to keep it a secret from them. I kinda want to do the 'exploring' part by myself, if that's okay?"

My dad thought for a moment and after some deep thinking, he sighed and with a smile he said, "Okay. I'll let you do that. But I will prepare you a place to stay temporarily."

I nodded. "Sounds like a plan."

Next day, afternoon, we were at the airport, bidding goodbye, for the meantime. But before I set off, my dad took one of my hands and placed inside them an exquisite antique pocket watch. "This is your mother's. I gave it to her for our first anniversary. I want you to have it."

I looked surprised and a bit puzzled. I'm sure Dad treasures the watch so much. "But, Dad─"

"Take it. It'll serve as a protective charm for your trip. It'll remind you that wherever you go, your mom…and I will always be there for." After saying that, he gave one final hug. "Thank you, Dad." Once he let go of me, he gave me one final reminder. "Once you're in Japan, if ever you need anything feel free to ask the Ayuzawas. Sakkun and I have best of friends since…forever. I'm sure they'll be glad to help. And besides, they've been there for your siblings for anything. They just live next door, so it won't be hard to look for them."

With a smile, I replied, "Noted."

After a final wave, I was on my way to the plane that will take me back home.

Misaki's POV

[In Japan]

Well, there's only three days left before the mystery little of the Usuis arrives. Everyone's in a bind preparing for the party…let me correct that…Kaya-san's in a bind preparing for the party. She wanted to so many things which only have us, the Ayuzawa family, as their guest. Kaya-san said she didn't want a big party because she would like the gathering to be an intimate one. That being said, the party will be held at their humble abode. Mom and Suzuna are, of course, in charge of food, while the rest of us are in charge of buying and setting up party decorations.

Despite the stressful atmosphere, next door I excused myself from the preparations for today because I have to work part-time today. I work as a server at a resto bar managed and owned by our family friend Hyoudou Satsuki-san. Though I said I'm a server, I'm sometimes forced by my co-workers and manager to take the stage and a sing a couple of songs. And it's been established, without me knowing, that I must sing during special events, which are held during some weekends. Even if I'm forced to sing sometimes, I can't deny the fact that I enjoy that part of work.

Takumi's POV

[In Japan]

I've been in Japan since yesterday morning. Surprisingly, I didn't have that much difficulty adjusting to the time zone. I've been around the area for the rest of the day. I went to the school I'll be attending this fall, and dealt with my transfer and enrollment. Since here in Japan school starts during spring and is divided into a trimester, I need to catch up a lot of things. But since I was educated under the supervision of the Walkers, I won't be having that much trouble and just arranged with the school that I'll be taking the essential tests needed to be taken. After that, I just strolled through a park nearby and then hung out at a small café nearby. Although I didn't do anything straining, I felt tired by the end of the day due to the unwanted attention I was getting, especially from the ladies of all ages.

It's currently 7 in the evening, and I was looking for a good place to eat. Last night, I went to eat at a classic ramen shop and enjoyed dinner, despite it being mid-August and not really the time to eat something hot. As strolled by and looked over some interesting shops, I noticed a resto bar getting heaps of customers. Curiosity hit me and checked the place out. As I entered the place, a sweet voiced welcomed me in…

Cause I'm only human. And I bleed when I fall down. I'm only human. And I crash and I break down. Your words in my head, knives in my heart. You build me up and then I fall apart. Cause I'm only human.

She had an angelic voice and her performance was beautiful. Aside from her performance, she was really gorgeous. She had long hair colored in a rich black tone and had a petite stature, but looked strong despite her size. After the music stopped playing the crowd cheered and she slowly opened her eyes to look to the audience, revealing tantalizing amber orbs.

And that is it. My last minute update before I turn in for the night. Tomorrow's a bit of a busy day for me but I'll try my best to update the story, cuz I know how frustrating cliff hangers are... Well, then goodnight folks...or should I say good morning cuz it's already past midnight. Don't forget to give a piece of your mind. Thanks.