Chapter 8
Hotaru Imai glanced outside of the tinted car's window. Her hand was holding one of her favorite purses, a Bottega Krim Knot clutch that she had owned for a while.
If only she could skip the event that night.
Yoru Kashiba was standing by the pristine white Maserati Quattroporte where she had been sitting inside. He had been her personal driver, and also an employee for the Imai household since Hotaru was just a toddler. After another minute passed, Hotaru finally opened the door, in which Yoru immediately assisted her with.
A majestic sight of Tokyo Art Gallery welcomed the young woman, as the modern art museum was surrounded with rotating LED lights that emphasized it's sophisticated architecture. A couple potted trees were carefully positioned around the corners to add a natural touch to the pale concrete structure. That Thursday night, a mid-tier Fundraising Gala was hosted by the Usami family. However, the venue itself was sponsored by the Elite to raise money for the Japanese Art Preservation Bill.
Hotaru was the sole representative from her family to attend the high-status event, as her parents were on a business trip to Norway. Her older brother had been typically in charge of going to such occasions whenever their parents weren't around. However, he was performing an important neurosurgery for the daughter of Japan's Minister of Justice that evening, who had a minor accident that caused a damage on her spinal chord. Subaru Imai was one of, if not the best, surgeons in the nation to help with her recovery.
"Have a great night, Hotaru-sama," Yoru bowed lightly as the young lady gracefully climbed out of the car. Her long off-shoulder Dolce & Gabbana black dress briefly swiped the floor, as she proceeded to walk towards the stairs.
With a restrained voice, she replied with a hint of sarcasm, "Thank you, Yoru-san. I'm sure this would be a great night indeed."
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"Look, isn't that Yakumo-san?"
"Oh my, you're right. He looks so cool today with that Burberry tux."
"Isn't that Goshima-san next to him? Wow, they both look stylish as always!"
A number of females were gushing over some of the male guests that night, while a particular brunette was listening carefully as she munched on the hors d'oeuvre instead. The caramelized foie gras on top of pesto bruschetta melted in her mouth when she took a bite, and she decided that she will be taking seconds soon.
Mikan didn't realize that an eighteen-year-old named Erika Fujiko was eyeing her; to be specific, her attire that evening.
When Erika first saw the brunette, the teenager had to admit that the young woman looked beautiful wearing a long-sleeved, dark gray skater-styled dress that fell above her knees. A pair of black pumps complimented her curvy figure, while her long brown hair was pulled in a neat ballerina bun. From her earlobes dangled a pair of long silver earrings to add a slight grandeur touch.
Her outfit looked suitable for the black-tie dress code that night, as the Japan Art Preservation Fundraising Gala, or JAP Gala for short, was a private event for those of high stature background only. Each of the guests had received not only an exclusive invitation, but also a beautifully painted ōgi, Japanese traditional folding fan, painted by the infamous Haruyo Morita herself. Erika was more than curious to know who the brunette was. As a newcomer in the Elite circle, thanks to her family's rocketing property business in Osaka for the past few years, Erika was determined to expand her network as much as possible; starting by attending events where socialite tend to gather, like the Gala that night.
Signaling her friends to follow her, the Fujiko heiress approached Mikan with a warm smile. "Hi there. I just have to stop by and say that your outfit looks so edgy. It looks really good on you."
Looking at her new company, Mikan nervously laughed as she could guess where this conversation is going, "Oh, thank you. That's really nice of you to say."
Erika took a sip of her champagne and casually started a conversation, "Can I ask in which boutique did you purchase the dress from? I haven't seen that model around the ateliers in Ginza. Perhaps you purchase them from a new emerging designer in Milan's Fashion Week last month?"
Mikan cringed upon hearing the question. This was one of the reasons why she didn't like going to such events. Guests were expected to showcase their wealth by wearing high-end luxury goods, and unfortunately Mikan was no ordinary guest. Earlier during the day, Takashi called to reminded her to attend the event, 'The Usami family always had a close relationship with the Yukihira. You should stop by at the Gala tonight.' Mikan tried to point out that no one would've cared whether she shows up at the Gala, but Takashi would hear none of it.
The twenty-one-year old brunette politely smiled to the younger woman before her, who was wearing a cute little black dress that Mikan assumed cost more than her monthly apartment rent. Her blonde hair was in a stylish updo, and she was wearing a glimmering ruby necklace. Mikan was hesitant for a good second, before she bluntly said, "I bought this dress from Zara. You know, that clothing store in Harajuku branch."
Without missing a beat, Erika gasped and gave her another look from head to toe. She forced out a smile, as she realized that this brunette was nothing but a mere commoner. "Ah, yes. I know of that..retail shop," she started to walk away before snickering, "What an interesting choice to wear to a high esteemed Gala, I'd say."
The brunette couldn't believe what she just heard. What an arrogant brat. Mikan felt annoyed, yet she decided to not say anything, which made her feel even more frustrated.
Taking a deep breath, Mikan decided that it was time to take more of the delicious foie gras to cheer her up.
It is going to be a long night.
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A red-haired man in his late twenties casually stood next to the open bar. He wore a slightly tinted glasses and a pair of dark maroon tux, while making sure to not stand out much. After all, being surrounded by fans was last on his list that night. He ordered a glass of Whisky on the rock, and the bartender immediately fixed him the drink. After a few minutes, his hand was holding a chilled Tumbler filled with light brown liquor and sphere-shaped ice.
"There you are, I've been looking for you."
The man turned around at the person who tapped his shoulder, and smiled charmingly, "You look gorgeous as always, milady."
Ignoring the compliment, the young woman ordered a glass of Long Island Ice Tea instead. The v-line white Oscar de La Renta dress that she wore hugged her slim figure and exposed her cleavage sexily. A few men were caught stealing glances at her as she seated herself on the bar stool.
"Have you seen the picture I sent you?" she whispered quietly as she took the drink that the bartender placed in front of her.
Sipping his glass, the man replied lightly, "Why of course. In fact, that picture is the only reason I came here tonight. I'm sure Boss would be pleased to-"
"No," the young woman said in a stern voice, "Not a word to him. Not yet."
Hearing her respond, a confused look came across his face, as he took a few strands of her long hair and twirled it around his fingers, "But why, my dear? Why hiding it?"
The young woman pouted but didn't reply to his question, which only made him even more curious. Nevertheless, he decided not to argue and raise his hands in an 'i-give-up' manner, "Alright, I'm not going to ask any further. Your wish is my command, princess."
Hearing his respond, the woman's expression turned brighter, as she clinked her glass towards his, "You're the best, Reo-kun."
Reo Mouri chuckled, as that wasn't the first time he received the compliment. He was surprised that the young lady was in a good mood despite her nasty attitude for the past few days. He chugged the remaining liquor in his glass, and raised one of his eyebrows in excitement, "Now, about the image. Tell me more about this...new girl on the block. What's her name."
The woman paused for a second, before deciding that it wouldn't hurt to give away the information, "Mikan. Her name is Mikan Yukihira."
Japanese Art Preservation Bill was one of the Elite's collaborative effort to conserve Japanese traditional art and culture. Older socialites were concerned that youngsters nowadays would forget their precious heritage, as globalization had caused new generations to be influenced by the Western ways a little too much to their liking. Therefore, they decided to utilize Elite's network to create an impact, and kicked off the campaign with JAP Fundraising Gala in order to raise money and gain supporters. They were hoping that the Bill can be approved by Parliament on their next session. On the other hand, plenty socialites decided to take advantage of this event as a fun socializing event instead.
The main event of the night was nonetheless a Painting Auction from at least 10 various artists. Standing in the middle of the crowd, was the museum's curator who excitedly described each painting in detail, starting from the one with lowest bid at one million yen. A number of critics were taking notes of the detailed information that he provided, while a couple of interested guests were starting to name their offering price.
Hotaru Imai arrived just in time when the auction started. She had however, no interest in enjoying the event tonight. Her only goal was to briefly meet with the main hosts, Denji and Hisae Usami, while avoiding their daughter, Wakako Usami at all cost.
Her eyes were fixated on a couple at the far corner of the room. They seemed to be entertaining a female guest while pointing to some of the paintings merrily. She quickly made her way there and tapped on the man's shoulder, "Excuse me, Denji-san."
The man in his late fifties with bright grey eyes and slightly tubby stomach turned around, and smiled upon seeing her face, "Hotaru! So nice to see you, my dear." Denji took a step back to reveal the people whom he was conversing with.
"It's been a while, Hotaru, love. We're glad to have you tonight," Hisae lightly touched the young woman's back, receiving a polite smile in return from the Imai heiress. "The pleasure is mine, Hisae-san."
Denji smiled widely as he handed her a glass of wine, "We barely see you in these kinds of events, Hotaru. What a pleasant surprise! I recall your parents are currently in Oslo?"
"Yes they are. In fact, they just landed safely this morning." Hotaru took the glass, appreciating his hospitality.
The man rubbed his chin lightly and thought aloud, "My, my, your father has always been interested in the healthcare industry there. I can't wait until I hear back from him once he's back in Tokyo."
Hisae rolled her eyes and smirked, "Boys. Business is always what they talk about," she paused before giving a brunette next to her a teasing look,"Isn't that right, Mikan?"
Hotaru looked at the female guest next to Hisae, and found her amethyst eyes widen when she saw the familiar figure who looked equally as surprised as she was.
"Mikan?"
"H-Hotaru?"
The Usami couple looked at the two young women, and noticed that they must have known each other.
"My, my, what a small world, it is!"
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Mikan glanced nervously at the person next to her. Meeting someone from Alice Academy was the last thing that she thought could happen that night. They sat near the buffet table, where Hotaru Imai was downing her fourth portion of sea urchin and crab roe shooter topped with caviar. She gracefully wiped her mouth with a napkin, before taking a sip of her white wine.
"Are you sure you don't want to eat anything? Their crab legs are really fresh too," the black haired woman looked at the empty crab shells on her other plate and continued, "I was told that they were caught earlier this morning and shipped directly from Sapporo."
Mikan was already too full at this point, so she just grinned and said, "I'm sure of it, I already ate a lot earlier. And what I mean is, a lot. I had at least five servings of foie gras canapé!"
Hotaru silently smiled as she appreciated that Mikan had a big appetite. Perhaps they should dine together once in a while. "Do you go to these kind of Elite events often?"
The brunette scoffed and quickly replied, "Yep, I go too much, to be honest. How about you?"
"Not really. Either my parents or my older brother, Subaru, would go. Unfortunately they are all occupied tonight."
"I see that you're here against your will as well," Mikan chuckled and continued, "I'm glad we're both in the same boat."
Hotaru was about to ask her a question, when she noticed from the corner of her eyes, that a female with shoulder-length black hair was walking towards their direction; or to be exact, towards Hotaru's direction. She immediately stood up, grabbed Mikan's arm, and looked around for an exit. Meeting that crazy woman would be the last thing she'd do. "Let's go get some air."
The two women briskly made an exit through the back door, with Mikan looking slightly worried, as Hotaru's hasty demeanor reminded her of Permy on the night they were ambushed. Hopefully nothing crazy will happen that night.
A young woman with a pair of dark purple eyes and Elie Saab's silver jumpsuit pouted her mouth when she finally reached the buffet table. She was already too late; the short-haired woman whom she was looking for had already left the scene.
Biting the tip of her thumb, she muttered with disdain in her voice, "You'll see, Imai. I'll get you next time."
The museum's curator finally revealed the last item to be auctioned that night. It was propped on an easel and was covered with black cloth. As soon as he lifted the fabric, all eyes were glued on the precious piece of history in shock.
In the middle of the stage, was an original painting of Jigoku Dayu (Hell Courtesan) by Kawanabe Kyōsai. The artwork was dated back to 1874 and had became a part of Japan's important cultural heritage. It was beyond unexpected to find a historical item amongst them that evening, as the artwork had been sold at 50 million yen a few years ago, and was last seen inside a highly secured art museum in Kansas.
Before anyone was able to utter a word, a man with clean cut hairstyle and black Armani tuxedo stepped forward. With no hesitation in his voice, he boldly stated, "Eighty million."
Murmurs were buzzing around the room, as the guests recognized the high bidder. Hijiri Goshima was one of Japan's wealthiest bachelor who owned a highly valued trading company. He started the business four years ago, and had robustly expanded the company's outreaches and created branch offices in 31 different prefectures within the past year. He was able to gain a lot of interest and support from large-scaled investors, just based on his business development skills.
Surprisingly, another man in white tux stepped forward and playfully stared at Hijiri. He smirked, creating slight wrinkles on the long scar under his left forehead, before saying casually, "Eighty five million."
Hijiri Goshima raised one of his eyebrows, as he knew what kind of game the man was playing. He squinted his eyes towards him, while Hajime Yakumo slightly chuckled instead.
The museum's curator, who was also the emcee, became a little flustered as the guests had started bidding before he had a chance to give the cue. He looked at Hajime, who had a reputation for his eerie demeanor, and smiled nervously, "W-what a wonderful surprise! We are at 85 million yen at the moment. Is anyone willing to top that offer?"
"Ninety million," Hijiri paused as Hajime silently laughed this time. Feeling even more annoyed at his supposed 'friend's' behavior, Hijiri decided to continue, "Actually, make it a hundred million instead. A hundred million yen for the Jigoku Dayu."
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Reo Mouri was leaning against the wall when he watched the last bit of auction in amusement.
He shook his head as he had underestimated the power of Elites this time. He wondered who had told old man Denji that someone amongst the guests had been desperate to obtain that painting for years. An image of a particular young lady whom he had encountered earlier crossed his mind, and he felt a slight shiver down his spine. What a scary woman indeed.
"Enjoying the show, Reo-sama?"
The red haired turned his head towards the voice, with an irritated look plastered on his handsome face, "Very funny, Yakumo."
Hajime Yakumo looked pleased when he stood next to him, and playfully nudged his elbow, "Whaddya think of the show I put up earlier? Wasn't I such a great actor? You should recruit me in your next movie or something."
Ignoring the man's ridiculous ego, Reo said instead, "Let's see if Goshima still wants to talk to you after this."
"Oh, he will. He won't let this one slip easily for sure."
Reo gave him a mocking look and replied sarcastically, "I can only wonder why. Alas, it definitely was not Goshima who lost the bid on that painting a couple years ago and went crazy afterwards. Surely, it wasn't him, or you, who broke into the museum, only to find that the painting had been moved to America. Am I right?"
Hajime grinned as he could still recall the day he and Hijiri tried breaking into the Edo-Tokyo Museum. Of course, he was the one who initiated to steal the expensive work of art to his buddy. That incident had caused a whole lot of mess for both of them. His father threatened to remove his birthright as one of Yakumo Foundation's heir, in which forced him join the family business earlier than he thought he would. "Good times, I'd say. Good old times. "
Hearing his respond, Reo simply rolled his eyes as he knew this person had done even crazier things in his life than just breaking into a building, especially when it comes to the dirty underground businesses.
"Anyway, how did Denji know about Goshima's bizarre obsession on that painting?"
The black haired man swiped the long bangs that covered half of his face and snickered, "I'm sure you already know the answer to that. That woman, was simply returning Hijiri a favor."
Taking a deep breath, Mikan opened her apartment door and immediately locked it once she was inside.
Finally, she thought. Home sweet home.
It was 1 a.m. in the morning, and Hotaru had graciously given her a ride home in her luxury car. The brunette took off her heels, and propped herself on the bouncy sofa. Her long brown hair cascaded messily to the floor, as she removed her bun, tilted her head back, and gave her tired body a long lazy stretch.
She took a glance at Permy's black combat boots by the door, and noted that he friend had returned safely from a Level 2 Mission. She was simply scouting an warehouse that was suspected to be one of Zero's hideout. Even though Mikan wasn't familiar with Zero yet, she knew that every Quest members in the Academy resented them, including a certain raven haired whom Mikan called partner. She heard that he almost never skipped any Mission related with Zero, and she couldn't help but wonder why.
For a few minutes, the brunette decided to rest her eyes while her mind wandered to the Gala earlier. She still couldn't believe that she had met another Alice from the Academy who was also part of the Elite community. Little did she knew, that the Alice and Elite community were more interconnected than it seemed.
Looking at her phone, Mikan found an unopened text in her Inbox that was sent half an hour ago. She must had been talking with Hotaru on their ride back together, and didn't notice the message. Clicking it open, the young woman smiled inwardly as she saw who the sender was. They had been texting each other for a few days now, and somehow she always felt excited to hear from him. Perhaps it was because of his low-key caring attitude, even though he could seem indifferent from the outside.
'It's already so late, be careful and let me know once you're home, Mikan. Goodnight.'
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A/N
Sorry for the late update, folks! I've been busy with work and also did plenty of research in order to write this chapter, so that might be part of the reason too, lol.
I forgot how fun it was to interact with readers until I started using Wattpad, but I guess I'll start doing it bit by bit here in Fanfiction.
This chapter is dedicated to SunBabyBoss who had been an avid reader & reviewer since the beginning :)
Hope you enjoy this chapter!
