A/N: Finally!
After a summer of disappointment I have a tiny bit of good news!
I'm temporarily back!!!!I don't know for how long but I finally have access to the internet and a place to type now that my sister bought a laptop to replace my dead one. It's hers so technically I can't write as much as I want to so it'll have to work around her schedule as well but nonetheless better that then none at all right?
I'm finally updating those stories that you've all been waiting for and I hope everyone enjoys and will, if not a long one, take the time to leave a short review to give me a sign that someone out there is still reading and anticipating the next chapter. Happy Halloween!
Marauders Jr – Well, just assume Nanjiroh died naturally and Yuuta from an accident :)
ketsuekilover- Dun worry, you're feeling exactly the same way Fuji feels :)
DestinedCrazyCat – LOL the players aren't even all aligned yet and no one has declared their intentions yet, save for Renji XD
tsub4ki- Of course not! If it was as easy as that I might as well write 'The End' after that ultima XD
Yes, it 's a bit taxing on Ryoma to receive a request from someone who was suppose to be a past lover and stay that way as well as adjusting his two growing teenagers to life in a new country. Even I wouldn't blindly jump in so look forward to the struggle!
Syuusuke'sYuki-Chan – I don't know if Yuu and Ryota will even come to be… we're far from pairing the kids yet.
Moonlit Crystals- Well I had to stop somewhere and it seemed like the right place to stop and give people time to recollect themselves XD
MARYLOVER- Yes he will, he may need a push but Syuusuke's not one to just stay away for good.
Nemesis Crow- Bare with me a little with the kids because I'm trying to get people used to having them around in the story and the tiny bits it shows on the kids will show another side to the internal fight in Ryoma and Fuji who happen to be in the middle of the whole. There will definitely be more
munkyaround- Well Ryota's going to have to deal with his own problems as well so I don't know if he'll have much time to play protective brother to Kanna. We'll see how it all turns out.
poakkis- That's the point of a human thought right? To be able to have lots of emotions.
A Second Chance
Rated: M
Summary: After 15 years away, Ryoma is finally returning to Japan with his 2 kids to take care of his mother after his father's death. Although the place brought back painful memories, he never thought he would meet his old flame there again. Is there a chance they could rebuild what they once had?
Chapter X: Begin Again
Tokyo, Japan
Echizen Residence
Ryoma's eyes snapped open as he sat up and looked around the room. The moonlight streamed gently through the crack of his curtains and sighed. The incident a few hours ago was still weighing heavily in his mind and he couldn't seem to keep the "what if's" out of his system.
He should know better now and just succumb to what life was instead of what could be but just that glimmer of hope Fuji extended and he destroyed was eating at him.
His mother hadn't questioned what had happened between them when he had come back alone but she had silently accused him of chasing Fuji off with her eyes. He was almost positive that she knew that Fuji and he had been more than close friends as he had suggested long ago. His children didn't say anything though Kanna was a bit curious as to why Syuusuke had come over for dinner but left before dinner was even served.
'You're father said he had urgent business elsewhere although Fuji-san told me he was free.'
DAMN!
He should've known right then that his mother was onto something… but he bided his time and conversed with Ryota about his modeling and tennis instead. Ryota didn't seem to care at all if Syuusuke stayed or not since Ryota resembled himself in more ways than one; and that included being anti-social.
Lying back on his bed he closed his eyes and tried to visualize a peaceful setting… an endless darkness; instead a voice filled his thoughts.
"Your happiness should always be first…"
"Lina…" Ryoma mumbled in thought… she had always been there beside him for everything. Even when he thought he had lost his way and was walking blindly she had laughingly told him that she'd gladly walk the wrong path with him if only he didn't leave her behind. She had fully trusted him and it was her confidence that made him strong when she had died. He may not have loved her with a passion as he loved Syuusuke, but she held a high position in his heart as well.
Kanna shut the door gently not to disturb her father. She had been curious as to why he had retired so early after dinner but hearing her father utter her mother's name in his dark room alone, it made her think twice about bothering him.
She didn't know much about her father's past nor her mother's but even she had been smart enough to know her father had some feelings left for Fuji-san. Heading to her room to finish her homework, she tried not to think of it too much.
Streets of Tokyo
"Ryota! Wait for me!!!" Kanna yelled as she watched her brother head out the front door without her just as he said he was going to if she didn't hurry up.
"Mou!!!!" Kanna growled out as she raced towards the door calling a goodbye to her grandma while slipping on her shoes in record speed. Hopping her way out the door in an attempt to adjust her shoe, she raced after her brother. Quite suddenly though, she felt a quick tug from behind and screamed as she whirled around backhand whoever that had grabbed her so suddenly.
"Ouch!"
"Kanna!"
Both were said at the same time as Ryota had turned and raced back to his sister's side while Tetsuya nursed a reddening cheek from the force of Kanna's backhand.
"Tetsu-kun?!" Kanna said with widened eyes now recognizing the person she had just backhanded.
"Well…" Ryota said looking at the result of Tetsuya's face. "You deserve that for grabbing a defenseless girl."
"Defenseless?" Tetsuya complained. "That backhand wasn't a defense?"
"I'm so sorry," Kanna said with a worried look. "You scared me and-"
"No need to apologize when he deserved it." Ryota concluded as he turned to head to school not even waiting for Kanna or Tetsuya.
"Where's your bike today Tetsuya?" Kanna asked looking around.
"I had a flat tire so my dad's getting it fixed." Tetsuya admitted. "I had to walk today and thought I'd try to catch your brother and you so we can walk together."
"Oh.. I'm still sorry-"
"It's fine!" Tetsuya said brightly. "At least your future husband won't have to worry if you're alone."
Kanna merely smiled as she waited for Tetsuya to sling on his bag and follow.
"Eh…. It's Fuji-senpai's Uncle!" Tetsuya said recognizing Fuji.
"Fuji-san!" Tetsuya called out to the man walking on the other side of the street.
The man looked up and smiled as he crossed the street coming towards the both of them.
"Ohayo(good morning)," Fuji said with another smile to both of them.
"Ohayo Fuji-san" Both echoed but only Kanna bowed in greeting.
"There's no need to be so formal Kanna-chan," Fuji said with a slight smile.
"Aa…" Kanna said but stared at his smile. For sure it wasn't the same smile that sat on his face at her father's reunion… there was a different aura in it today. "Are you on your way to see my father?"
"I…"
"You didn't stay for dinner last night even though you took the trouble of coming," Kanna said suddenly remembering the incident yesterday.
"Oh… I- um…"
"Otou-san said you were busy although obaa-san said that you said you weren't that night." Kanna said with a smile.
"I was a bit after all…" Fuji said with a slight lapse in his smile
Kanna merely nodded though she caught the slight slip-up. It seemed her father and Fuji-san had probably had a disagreement that night. "I hope you can come over tonight then?"
"I don't think I can…" Fuji said a bit wistfully.
"Is it because you're a bit busy or my father being stubborn?" Kanna asked curiously.
"Ah…" Fuji started and stopped. Although it had been apparent when he saw Ryota that he was a hundred percent clone of Ryoma, he had been unsure of Ryoma's daughter. Even her whisper of Ryoma and his relationship she had told him hadn't revealed who she truly was… all he could assume was that she was like her mother, a woman he had never met but was sure she'd been beautiful because Kanna was a blooming flower to anyone with eyes.
"No need to explain if you don't want to," Kanna said instead with a smile as she turned to tug on Tetsuya who had been listening in on their conversation. "We have to get to school so I'll see you around since you're avoiding my father."
"I'm not avoiding-"
"Bye!" Kanna said brightly as she waved and turned away to run after her brother who was blocks ahead by now.
Fuji stared after Kanna and wondered if her mother had been just as insightful as she was being.
'But will Ryota and she forgive me for loving their father?' Fuji thought as he looked away from their disappearing figure and towards work. He had taken a walk to clear his head of last night before going to the office… only to find himself inches away from Ryoma's house as he had always done through the thirteen years of their separation. Whether he had admitted it or not, he missed Ryoma and tended to walk by his house when he felt he needed the strength to move.
Seigaku
4th day of school
Kanna sighed as she concentrated on the floor while walking between Tetsuya and Ryota. She hadn't wanted to look at the sneers on the girls faces or the wanting looks on the boys. She knew of the rumors of her passing herself to multiple men but she didn't tell her father nor would she let Ryota tell him. She didn't want her father to act rashly… as Ryota had done. He had protected her using force and although it worked, she worried of what people must be saying about him.
"Look up; doing that only makes you look guilty." Ryota said not even glancing at his sister.
Kanna frowned a bit at her brother's statement but she resorted to looking up and as she stared through all the stares she smiled as she spotted Yuu-senpai.
"Yuu-senpai!" Kanna called out. "Ohayo!"
"Ohayo Kanna-chan," Yuu greeted good-naturedly back. "Ohayo Tetsuya, Ryota."
" Ohayo senpai!" Tetsuya said happily while Ryota walked passed Yuu as if he never saw or heard him in the first place.
"Ryota-kun, you'd better learn to be more polite to your senpai's like your sister." Yuu said following them.
"Che!" Ryota merely muttered as he continued on his way.
"I heard some jealously is going around lately early this morning." Yuu said to Kanna as he turned to look at her seriously.
"Oh?" Kanna said looking at her senpai. "Like what?"
"Like Ryota and you acting as a couple?" Yuu said holding open a magazine showcasing the photo from when they had gone to pick up their uniform and was asked if they were a couple.
"Umm Yuu-senpai, that was a mistake!" Kanna said with a half pout- half frown. "We had already told the guy we were siblings!"
"It doesn't quite look that way Kanna-chan… that and I believe the majority isn't about to believe you." Yuu said with a slight smile.
"Let them think what they want to then," Ryota said with a fierce frown. "Why should it concern anyone how good we look together?"
"Perhaps it's because other people are interested in you?" Yuu suggested.
He himself, if Yuu was being totally honest; had to admit he wanted a closer view of Ryota. His skills and charm was appealing but it wasn't like he was in love with the man!
After all, Yuu had a steady girlfriend for the last year now and he was almost positive his little side interest in Ryota wasn't going to take a turn like his Uncle. He was sensible and more than likely, after a serious match with Ryota, he'd lose interest as he always did with interesting opponents. Turning towards the third year's hall, he wondered if he was putting himself in a dangerous position by challenging Aki-senpai for a better chance at Ryota…especially if he wasn't serious at all about Ryota.
"Yuu-kun!"
Yuu glanced up and smiled at the dark-haired girl who waved and brown, doe-like eyes soften at seeing him.
"Nami-chan"
xXx
"Morning sweetheart," Renji called out as soon as Kanna and Ryota walked in.
"Good morning Mitsurugi-san," Kanna said to Ren instead and ignored Renji's existence.
"How cold," Renji said with a smirk as she brushed by with her brother and straight to her seat.
"Leave her alone," Ren sighed out to his brother before turning back to face Ryota and Kanna. "I hope it's quite all right to start on our English project at your house today Echizen."
"I have a photoshoot," Ryota said hoping to dissuade the two unworthy twins from following Kanna home.
"It's fine with me," Kanna said right after with a smile to Ren though. "You and I could finish our work while Renji-kun and Ryota can figure out another time when their schedule matches."
"Then let's." Ren said with a nod as he ignored his brother outrage at not being invited to Ryota's glare that he could feel the heat of. Ren had already decided he was going to take the hot-headed Ryota in as a regular and discipline him to be a solid singles player. After watching his practices, he had come to the conclusion that the boy was very experienced and although he hadn't been a horrible doubles player, he tended to overtake his partner a lot… quite like Ren himself.
"Kanna, I don't think-"Ryota started only to see his sister wave his caution off.
"I'll be at home with Grandma," Kanna said bluntly. "Nothing's going to happen and you know it Ryota."
"But-"
"There are no buts! Dad and you would be home soon after anyways so there's nothing to worry about! Besides, it's not the other one that's coming over."
"There's something fishy about the straight-laced one too," Ryota argued with a frown.
"Ryota, there's something always wrong with everyone else but you." Kanna huffed out before turning away.
"Che! Girls!" Ryota muttered as he turned towards the window and outside to the tennis courts below. He had noted how people were eyeing him yesterday when he played and he specifically lowered his skills to the each of his opponents limit. He, unlike his father, played everything cautious and wasn't one to show off too much.
Not many knew of whose son he was either so he was thankful that it was on the down-low with only Horio and Momoshiro knowing who his father was.
'There'd be too big of a fuss once they figure I'm a son of an ex pro." Ryota thought with a frown. They'd do what his old school did to him; pressure him to be the best since his father was an ex pro and single him out.
'Well… it's not like I'm hiding my traits either…' Ryota thought with a smirk.
Momoshiro's Sports Club
'Sorry for having to stick you with the intermediate class today," Momoshiro said leading Ryoma over to the little elementary boys and girls warming up. "An just couldn't fit it in with her schedule today and I know you'll have a little trouble since this is the class An always has trouble with but they are good at tennis."
"Because they're parents are rich enough to afford tennis tuition and tutor for them since they were five?" Ryoma asked already eyeing the brand name racquets in each kid's hands to a full tennis outfit decked for professionals.
"Er… yeah."Momoshiro agreed amazed by Ryoma's quick summarization. "We have a new student today as well and it may, depending on her standing, create problems within the group."
"Well let's all hope they are near the same amount of rich so I don't have to hear any whines and insults then." Ryoma said with a sigh. He honestly wasn't up for the task after what happened last night but he didn't want to have time to dwell on it either.
"Well, I'll leave you to introduce yourself and such like a big boy Echizen and that must be the new girl with her mother."
"She brought her mother?" Ryoma deadpanned out.
"Well… parents like to size up the instructors on their kids first day so I hope you're dress down with her won't be as bad as An on some of the other kids parents."
Before Ryoma could say more Momoshiro jogged away and Ryoma was left with nothing but his racquet and unavoidable future teaching the "upper-class" children. Walking up to the waiting girl and her mother first, he felt he might as well get it over with.
"Hello," The woman greeted good-naturedly. Her ruby eyes curved in softness as a smile found its way on her lips. Despite that, she looked quite like a doll only smiling on the outside for appearances. She wasn't too tall considering the fact that she only came up to the bridge of his nose with heels on but she had a very well proportioned body and aura.
"I'm the instructor," Ryoma said stating the obvious. "I suppose you want to give me the rundown on your daughter's allergies and such?"
Quite suddenly, the serene and distant face broke and a face of laughter shone through her perfect facade and her ruby eyes shone with laughter. "Not at all," She said with a real smile this time. "I was just a bit curious if my daughter could be placed with this class since she has a knack for this sport and is talented if I may say so myself."
"I see," Ryoma said moving his lips up in an attempt to smile a bit. "Well feel free to sit and see if I'm qualified to look after your daughter."
"Oh, that's right, Ayu… why don't you introduce yourself to…"
"Echizen-sensei if you wish." Ryoma said looking at the little girl whose dark eyes showed no emotion while looking up at him. The silence remained until a slight frown graced her petite mouth.
"They can't hit the ball, are you qualified to be an instructor?" Ayu asked bluntly staring at Ryoma without the least bit of fear or respect.
"I'm the substitute for today," Ryoma stated looking at her with no more respect than he was given. "I'm not aware of everyone's capabilities are so I'm going to have to assume intermediate means they understand the basis of the game, can hit and play a set if not superiorly."
"And if they can't?" Ayu demanded.
"Then you can play against me and we'll see who's more qualified." Ryoma said in much the same bratty tone back to her. He had no trouble sinking to her level of bratty after raising Ryota and Kanna.
"I hope you don't regret this," Ayu said with a frown.
"I won't," Ryoma said turning away from the hard-headed kid to face the rest of the class who was busy chatting about a party someone's parents was going to be giving and he wondered if these rich kids even enjoyed playing tennis.
"Let's get started," Ryoma said raising his voice above the chatter. "Today Momoshiro-sensei can't be here so I will be your substitute. I hope you all know how to hit the ball across the net without causing a fault."
"Duh! That's so beginner level!" A girl laughed out.
"There you are," He said focusing back on Ayu. "Your teammates will be able to properly serve."
"Oh my god! Mitsurugi Ayu?!" The same girl who had laughed at Ryoma was now fawning over the demanding little girl. "I had no idea you were placed with us who are so much older than you."
"What are you? Fifty or something? Just because you're twelve and I'm eight just shows how advanced I am compared to you." Ayu shot back knowing her position and class better than the girl.
This was one thing Ryoma hated beyond hate within the circle of rich people. The richer you were the better you could snub everyone lower than you.
"Your daughter has quite some pride." Ryoma said glancing at her mother who had moved forward.
"But I enrolled her after I found you'd be here Echizen-sensei."The woman said with a smile. "I wanted my daughter to be taught by the best and what better than an ex professional."
Ryoma didn't comment but look at her suspiciously. She obviously did her research if she knew exactly who he was.
"I do have some concerns I want you to help my daughter with though." She said shifting her gaze from her daughter back to Ryoma.
"I see Mitsurugi-san." Ryoma said remembering how the girl had specified their last name for him.
"Call me Asako instead Echizen-sensei," She said before jumping back into her concern. "She tends to think she's very good at tennis with no need to grow."
"I highly doubt your husband would appreciate me calling you by name and becoming too familiar as for your daughter; I've seen that habit more than once in my life." Ryoma said thinking of himself and Ryota.
"I'd like you to teach her she's just beginning not ending." Asako said with a nod towards her daughter. "She's my only daughter and the youngest so she tends to follow after her brothers."
"This is a sport they enjoy as well?" Ryoma questioned as he watched his "class" warm-up and noted her expertise in stretches and form.
"Yes… it was something I was very much into as well. I followed your entry and exit out of the professional circle Echizen-san."
"Not many people would remember what I was four years ago."
"Nonsense," Asako said with a small smile. "It only takes a bit of exposure to get you back into that spot light."
"I'd rather not," Ryoma said not missing the constant cameras in his face to multiple questions thrown at him. "But I am only a substitute-"
"Perhaps just a little lesson would be enough for her to think on it because although elementary kids can't participate in official matches to get anywhere, she has a bit of an ego that comes from her father."
"I'll do my best to show her a bit but that's all I can promise."
"That's all Ayu might need." Asako said glancing at her daughter.
Ryoma, on the other hand was glad he had something else to worry on. He wouldn't have a single moment to think about last night for sure now.
Tokyo, Japan
Fuji Design Inc.
"I can only think it didn't go as planned." Chihiro said walking into Fuji's office.
"He did a through break yesterday." Fuji said with a strained smile. "But I guess that's better than never knowing-"
"STOP!" Chihiro said rounding the desk as she placed her folders she was bringing in down on the desk before bending slightly and hugging Fuji tightly.
"Chihiro-"
"Syuusuke… this isn't like you at all and I don't like it." Chihiro said as her eyes filled with tears as she stared out the window behind Fuji's head. "I don't want to remember the last time you forced yourself to be okay."
"But I will be okay," Fuji said placing another smile on his face.
"You are far from okay right now," Chihiro insisted. "He's hurt you but I know you! You know yourself! You can't let it end here! It's not like you to give up so easily!"
"I know but I have to respect his choice and-"
"Is there anything left to hold on to? Does he still love you?" Chihiro asked searching Fuji's eyes now. "Can you really go on knowing that he may have done it for your sake again and not his?"
"But Ryoma-"
"Syuusuke… I never wanted to think Yuu and I weakened you but I'm beginning to think Karin and the burden of Yuu and I may have taken its toll on you. You're not who I was introduced to when Yuuta introduced us. I could see then that your affection for Yuuta was real, you're playful nature that made you mysterious is fading…. All you have left is your shell Syuusuke."
Silence fell on the pair as she watched him think over everything she had just said. She didn't speak even as the smile he pasted for her sake fell from his face and his eyes dropped their guard slightly allowing her to see the worn and faded blue eyes that kept strong for his little brother's family he was unexpectedly left with, his fierce divorce and the only person he ever truly loved turning his back on him.
"You need to have your passion back Syuusuke… or this time; you'll lose him forever." Chihiro said softly letting Fuji go from her embrace.
"There was a time, I thought I lost him forever…"
"But he's back Syuusuke… will you really pass up the chance now?"
"I don't want to hurt his children," Fuji admitted.
"Then do what you would've done ten years ago Syuusuke." Chihiro said with a smile now. He was re-awakening and that was all that counted.
"What would that be?" Fuji asked quite lost on what Chihiro was asking from him.
"Syuusuke, if you can't penetrate his walls then take away his reasons. Why don't you get the kids to like and get used to having you around as well. Yuu could always help out since they are all near the same age."
"True," Fuji said with a thankful smile to his sister-in-law. "Thank you Chihiro… I think I might just give this another go."
Chihiro nodded and caressed his cheek slightly. "Syuusuke, no one knows how long you'll love a person, you just have to hold on to the belief that it'll last. "
Fuji nodded and turned back to his work. Chihiro was right, if he wasn't going to fight for what he wanted then he might as well not give Ryoma another thought.
"Maybe if I forced him-"
"Syuusuke, when one forgets who feels the most pain? Or the one who forgot or the one who remembers?" Chihiro asked.
Fuji didn't answer… but he understood what Chihiro was trying to say… forcing Ryoma would only create the bigger rift.
Tokyo, Japan
Satohashi Modeling Agency
Ryota entered the studio only to feel the need to leave all the more. He wasn't feeling in the best of moods since his sister informed him that she would be going home with Mitsurugi… then again he wasn't liking the fact that he had to be here with the annoying twin as well.
"Would you hurry so we can get this photo shoot and interview over and done with?" Renji called out to Ryota who trailed him.
"Why the rush?"
"Isn't it obvious? Why should my brother have your sister all to himself?" Renji asked pissed not even greeting Ayaka who called out a greeting to the both of them.
"Good afternoon Renji, Ryota." Sakura greeted.
"Same to you beautiful." Renji said while Ryota merely nodded.
"How long will it take?" Renji and Ryota asked Nakamuta-san at the same time.
"Somewhere you two need to be today boys?" Nakamuta asked amused at the determined look on both their faces.
"His house,"
"My house"
Both boys echoed near the same thing with glares towards each other making Nakamuta realize the incident may involve the golden eyed girl from the last time they were here all together.
"Well boys, we have a quick photo shoot with all three of you, no singles today. We'll be promoting spring uniforms again in front of a couple notable photographers and journalists as well as J-hype publicist."
"The interview will be featured within J-hype then?" Ryota asked glancing at the group of people chatting to the side of Sakura and Ayaka.
"Yes, so do your best boys, there's lots of competition from other agencies this month according to the publicist as well." Nakamuta said seriously. "We could lose center page to them."
"Not as long as you have Sakura and me Nakamuta-san." Renji said with a smirk.
"You only need me if you want center page." Ryota said at the same time.
Nakamuta let out a small breath and ushered them towards Ayaka to get ready. "With the competition you two exert, I won't need anyone else!"
It only took the boys a minimum of thirty minutes before they were ready to shoot and greet everyone with Sakura.
"Sakura-chan, looking good." A man said as she passed.
"Thank you Sagawa-san." Sakura said and noted Ryota's questioning look when she turned back."He's J-hype's publicist."
"I see," Ryota said and took a seat on the other side of Sakura.
"This is the one that made Sakura and Renji look like amateur's huh?" another guy said looking over Ryota's appearance through the lens of his camera.
"You have amazing presence and ability." Another photographer said to Ryota who thanked them professionally.
"Let's start with the interview first." Sagawa-san said sitting down across from the three. "Echizen… isn't it?"
"It is," Ryota said turning his emotionless golden eyes towards the man. He was like any average reporter to Ryota, looking for a slip-up, looking for a weakness… something Ryota wasn't about to do.
"How did you come by your talent?"
"I was born with it," Ryota said bluntly.
The publicist and Ryota stared at each other silently for a few more seconds before the publicist looked away.
Echizen Ryota would be a hard one to crack for the magazine's purpose.
Echizen Residence
"Here we are," Kanna said a bit nervously as she stopped to unlock the front gate for Ren and herself.
"It's nice and secluded…" Ren commented. "It's rare to have any peace at our house with so many servants and business people going in and out every day."
"Oh, your parents sound very busy." Kanna commented as she ushered Ren in first.
"They are but they make it firm with the company that they won't work on certain days and past nine at night." Ren stated.
"Why is that?" Kanna asked searching for the other key to unlock the front door now.
"Because they prefer to spend time with us on birthdays, holidays and an hour before bed every night."
"At least you know they love all of you despite how tired they are." Kanna said with a smile as she held the door open for Ren to go in and shut it behind herself. "Obaa-san! Taidaima!"
"Okaeri Kan-- oh, who's this?" Rinko asked looking at Ren. She had just come out of the living room and was quite curious of the good-looking boy.
"This is Mitsurugi Ren, my classmate." Kanna introduced taking off her shoes and slipping into her slippers. "We're going to work on our English project in the living room."
"Nice to meet you," Ren said formally with a slight bow. He slipped into Ryota's slippers that Kanna offered while she went in search of two more pairs when Renji and Ryota get back as well.
"Of course," Rinko agreed with a smile. "You two settle down in here and I'll get you two some refreshments."
"Thank you," Kanna said as she led the way into the living room.
Ren was actually impressed at the tidiness. He had always lived in a big house and was surrounded by people but it seemed nice to just have a cozy place and close family around as well.
"Want to look around a bit?" Kanna asked since it seemed Ren was already looking around the living room.
"If you don't mind," Ren said putting his bag by the table Kanna set her stuff on.
"Not at all," Kanna said with a quick smile. "I'll just-"
"Here you two are," Rinko said interrupting as she set down two iced drinks and mini sandwiches that she had made earlier for Kanna and Ryota's snack. "Where is Ryota?"
"He has a meeting at his modeling agency but will be here soon." Kanna assured.
"Okay then, I'm going to step out and grab dinner so you two be good and I'll be back." Rinko said with a slight wave as she headed off to find her jacket and keys.
"Come on," Kanna said with another smile to Ren as she led the way to other parts of the house.
"You look better with a smile on your face." Ren commented.
"Eh?" Kanna said with a surprised look.
"I suppose the stress of my brother affects your smiles at school but it looks very good on you." Ren said again.
"I think a smile once and a while won't kill your facial tissues either." Kanna said with a small smirk. "You always look so serious Mitsurugi-san… is that part of being the oldest sibling?"
"Aa…" Ren said with a slight sigh. "I guess you could say that."
"Maa-ne (Oh, Well)" Kanna said as she pointed at a picture. "This is my full family."
Ren glanced momentarily at it and blinked a couple of times as he stared at Ryoma. "SamJu?"
"Eh? My dad?" Kanna said with a smile. "You know him then?"
"You mean SamJu is your dad?" Ren asked with a stunned look.
"Yes, doesn't Ryota resemble him?" Kanna said not getting the hype that Ren was having.
"Is he… I mean will he be home?" Ren asked looking at the picture with wonder.
"Aa… probably before your brother and Ryota," Kanna said slowly.
"Do you know I look up to your father a lot?" Ren said turning to face Kanna with a smile.
"Really?" Kanna said in surprise. "He's been inactive so long from the professional field though. Ever since mom's accident he's pushed us away from tennis but Ryota finally convinced him to take it on again after a few months and he was able to re-enter tennis but not professionally."
"It's really only been four years."
"But four years is a lot." Kanna said with a soft smile. "I'm glad he started playing again though, mom wouldn't have wanted her death to stop him from what he loved to do."
"Was she… a victim in the US Open shootout four years ago?" Ren asked and immediately regretted that as he saw the look of pain cross Kanna's face.
"Yes…. Yes she was- but let's go look in other parts of the house ne?" Kanna asked trying to regain her cheerfulness.
"Aa…" Ren said although he knew it must be a painful memory… after all, if his mother was shot down in front of him, he wouldn't know what to do.
Tokyo, Japan
Satohashi Modeling Agency
Sagawa was a bit disappointed that he couldn't dig out anything to useful from Echizen. After all, he was one of the best to be able to mentally comprehend models no matter what they tried to hide but he seemed almost too professional as if personally taught.
"Thinking a bit too hard?" Nakamuta asked as he came and stood next to the publicist.
"Yes… he's really on a different level." Sagawa said with a nod. "Even as they're all posing right now, he stands out from the other two unless he arranges himself to their skill level or raises theirs to match his."
"True… he was a rare find… I also wanted his sister to join in the fun. She has a model's face… she just needs to know how to use her facial expressions." Nakamuta said with a smile. "I think I struck gold when Renji brought him here."
"Renji?"
"Well… Renji had his sister and he had to come for her… actually Ryota-kun has a lot of pride and doesn't back down. His aim is to be on the cover of J-hype as Sakura was once featured."
"Does he know how hard that is to achieve? I mean even Sakura and Renji have never been featured separately on the cover and he wants to be?"
" Yes… that was his bet to Renji about being a better mode; to be the solo cover for J-hype in a month's time."
"Interesting… does he know that J-hype is for High schoolers?"
"He does." Nakamuta said with a smrk. "But he's determined… I had Ayaka look into his history… look at these."
Sagawa looked down and flipped through what Ayaka found only to see the kid had modeled for multiple big time companies in the USA, including GAP, YM, and multiple commercials for big products.
"He's very experienced for such a young boy… he started modeling when he was seven… so he's come a long way in six years." Sagawa commented.
"Not only that," Nakamuta said flipping to the back pages. "Read who his parents are."
"Echizen Ryoma? The SamJu?" Sagawa asked wide-eyed… Murata Lina?!"
"Yep," Nakamuta said with a smile. "Murata Lin… the famous model from the USA who modeled for Cosmopolitan, Vogue and so many more prestigious magazines?"
"That very same, who is said to have a very well known career playing violin and piano as well." Nakamuta said with a smile.
"On second thought… it wouldn't be so bad to have him on front cover and slowly uncover his true identity to girls." Sagawa said with a smile as he noticed the photo shoot end and both boys rush to the back to change. "I think I need to have another talk to Echizen…"
Tokyo, Japan
Momoshiro's Sports center
Ayu breathed hard as she looked at Ryoma with determined eyes. Eyes Ryoma was well accustomed to since his son and he had shown those eyes growing up through tennis. She had potential; real potential he rarely saw these days.
"Mada mada dane," Ryoma said to her as he walked from his side of the net to hers. "But you're very good for your age; with more practice you can be professional."
"You don't have to lie and dote on me like my past instructors! They only wanted the money after knowing who I was and you do as well!" she said viciously.
Ryoma smirked and leaned down to her level until his golden eyes met with hers. "I don't have a need for money nor do I have a need to pamper you. I will treat you as I do my children; no more no less."
"Ayu…" Her mother said.
"Yes mom," Ayu said standing to walk to the side where her water bottle was being held out by her mother. "I want you to respect Echizen-san… he beat you fair and square."
"But I-"
"You're not done growing yet… just like he said."
"I don't like him… even though he looks like SamJu." Ayu said with a frown. She was an avid tennis fan as she felt that was the only way to connect to her older brother.
"Ayu… but that is SamJu." Asako said with a smile. "You asked for the best so I got you the best."
"Samju…"
"Who's SamJu?" A couple others asked standing nearby.
"He was one of the youngest tennis player to achieve the Grand Slam four times in a row." Asako said looking at Ryoma with a smile.
"What a weird name… is it Korean?" another asked.
"It's short for Samurai Junior!" Ayu corrected them with a frown. "His father took the professional tennis world by storm then left immediately without completing a Grand Slam title but left the name Samurai running in the circuit. Later Samurai Junior, his son invaded the circuit and took over till his sudden retirement four years ago."
"I'm glad you all know your history but tomorrow Momoshiro-sensei will be back and hopefully everyone will work on their form and grip again. Have a good day." Ryoma said bluntly realizing that it was past time he left and was due home.
"Thank you," Asako called out after him as the entire class bowed respectively and said their goodbyes as well.
Ryoma didn't answer… he was well aware people were going to find out who he was but he didn't want to cause too much of a scene.
"That game with the girl warmed me up well…" Ryoma uttered with a slight smile. He'd go finish up the rest of his energy on Ryota.
Tokyo, Japan
Satohashi Modeling Agency
Ryota frowned as he saw Renji rush out of the building while he was tied up with Nakamuta and Sagawa-san.
"I heard you wanted to be on the cover of J-hype…" Sagawa said with a smile.
"I do," Ryota said boldly.
"Then how about we do that for this month? As long as you won't mind talking a bit about your mother for a section on you." Sagawa pushed.
"No thanks." Ryota said immediately without even thinking twice. "That's cheating Sagawa-san. I have always used my own skills to get where I am and I refuse to use my mother's legacy just to get onto your front cover. I will use my own modeling skills to make you all put me there." Ryota said seriously. "Now if you two will excuse me I have to get home. Call me if a photo shoot comes up Nakamuta."
Both men were stunned at Ryota's assertiveness. He had turned down what many others would flaunt just to get ahead. It was rare to see Ryota's kind these day since everyone wanted to climb the easy way these days.
"He's really something ne Sagawa?" NAkamuta said with a chuckle.
"He is… it will be very intresting to see the responses we get in the magazine… if he stands out I'll contact you again." Sagawa said before walking away.
"Aa…" Nakamuta said but he knew Sagawa would be calling him; girls go for Ryota's kind.
Echizen Residence
"And that's all there is to the house." Kanna said happily as she led the way downstairs again. "Should we get started on the project?"
"Aa…" Ren said following her down when both got distracted at the doorbell.
"Hold on a second." Kanna said running to the intercom screen and switched it on to see who was at the front gate. "Ah! It's Mitsurugi-san! Maybe Ryota's back too!" Kanna said happily and opened the gate for Renji before slipping back into her shoes to open the front door.
It was the fastest Kanna had ever seen anyone make it from the gate to the door. Renji was in before Kanna could greet him and was out of his shoes and in the spare slippers Kanna left by the door earlier before she could shut the front door and ask about Ryota.
"Did he do anything to you?" Renji asked looking Kanna over.
"Ren-kun is not like you!" Kanna said angrily. "Where's Ryota?"
"He was held back," Renji said with a slow smile now. "You two aren't the only one here are you?"
"Actually we are." Kanna said walking towards Ren instead. "Want to bring your shoes and we can go to the back yard. Ryota won't be happy to know I'm all by myself with the two of you inside so I'll show you both our backyard."
"Works for me," Ren said ignoring his brother as well as he grabbed his shoes and headed back through the living room to the sliding door where Kanna was getting back into her shoes.
"Do you guys have a fountain like we do on our estate?" Renji asked following the two.
"No, we have a small Koi pond Grandma and grandpa but other than that it's just trees a huge bell tower and a tennis court."
"You guys have a tennis court?" Renji asked with a slight frown. "Talk about tennis obsession like Ren!"
"Well we can't help it if tennis runs through our blood!" Kanna said with a huge frown. She lost her frown when Ren walked past her and into the tennis court to look. She was a bit touched that he was a fan of her father… although the events of four years ago was painful, she was thankful her father had picked up tennis and taught her brother and her his favorite sport.
"Kanna…"
Kanna turned around suddenly as she felt Renji's warm breath by her ear.
"What are you…"
Kanna struggles as Renji closed the distance. He was too strong and if she screamed for Ren then-
"Oh my!"
Renji pulled away immediately and Kanna opened her eyes to see her grandmother by the door looking out at the two of them.
"Obaa-san!" Kanna whispered.
"I don't know what that's all about but your father and Ryota's home…." Rinko said more as a warning to the man on Kanna then Kanna herself. Although the boy looked similar to the one who introduced himself earlier, she could tell from the different dress and hair style that it was someone else… especially she clearly saw the other one by the tennis court.
Kanna got ready to face her brother and father… they wouldn't be pleased at all to fins that she was home alone with TWO males.
A/N: Well that ends this chapter here and stay tuned for another Thrill moment next time and we'll see how the Mitsurugi's end their first visit to the Echizen's. Till next time please do leave a review!
Atobe Keigo- Heir to the Atobe empire and pops in and out to bother Ryoma.
Ayaka- A hair/make-up artist that works with Renji
Echizen Kanna- Ryoma's insecure daughter
Echizen Rinko- Ryoma's mother
Echizen Ryoma- Main character, part-time tennis instructor, living through his own scars
Echizen Ryota- Ryoma's cocky son
Fuji Chihiro- Syuusuke sister-in-law and interior decorator
Fuji Syuusuke- Main character, architect, trying to fix wrongs
Fuji Yuu- 3rd year, fukubuchou of Seigaku tennis team and Yuuta's son
Fuji Yuuta- Regular salaryman who still can't appreciate his smiling brother's presence
Hachimoto Sakura- 3rd year Hyoutei student and model
Hajime Chii- Ryota and Kanna's homeroom and English teacher
Hanasato Gin- 3rd year all rounder, generally he's quiet and doesn't say much
Hirazono Eiri- 3rd year doubles player. He's generally nice and thoughtful
Horio Heero- 2nd year student in the tennis club aiming to be a regular and dislikes Ryota
Horio Satoshi- The most annoying of the Ichinen trio who happened to reproduce
Horio Tomoka- Loud and annoying mother to Heero
Ichirou Kamui- A doctor from Fuji's past
Inui Sadaharu- Athletic advisor stationed around Tokyo
Kaidoh Kaoru- Athlete
Kawamura Takashi- Owns Kawamura sushi shop and is going to marry Sakuno
Kikumaru Eiji- works at a pt shop and bothers Ryoma periodically
Minato Sae- 3rd year president of the art club and Muroshiki Sho's girlfriend
Mitsurugi Ren- Older twin to Renji who fixes Renji's mistakes who is also the buchou of the tennis team and Student body president.
Mitsurugi Renji- 2nd year smart heartbreaker and part-time model
Mitsurugi Ayu- eight year old sister to the twins
Mitsurugi Asako- Mother to the three.
Muroshiki Sho- 3rd year doubles player who has quite an imagination and very talkative.
Momoshiro Aki-1st year student at Seigaku high
Momoshiro Ami- Momo and an's three year old daughter
Momoshiro An- Part-time worker at her husband's sports club and full time mom
Momoshiro Takeshi- Owner of a local sports club and employs Ryoma
Momoshiro Tetsuya- 2nd year tennis player siming for a regular spot. Befriends Kanna and is uaually cheerful.
Oishi Syuichiroh-Chemistry teacher at Seigaku
Oshitari Yuushi- Hangs around Atobe when he appear. The new Kabaji?
Ryuzaki Sakuno- Taka's pregnant fiancée who has grown from the blushing, stuttering student Ryoma remembers
Ryuzaki Sumire- Sakuno's grandma who has yet to give up her passion as a tennis coach.
Tezuka Azumi- Tezuka's wife who runs a restaurant/teahouse
Tezuka Kazuki- 1st year student in the tennis club. Generally not as stoic as his father but tends to keep to himself and doesn't say much unless he needs
Tezuka Kunimitsu- working as a lawyer.