Finally free now! I'll be able to update weekly again! Thanks for being patient everyone!
Special thanks to Nesha, Teruko, shawnmisakiusui, and BlueKitten-Nya for reviewing the last chapter. Your words gave me inspiration to complete this chapter. I am very grateful for your support. =]
Nesha: Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'll work on my other story soon, but after I finish this one.
Teruko San: That's good. I have read the recent ones and I was excited when Misaki's dad was finally introduce. I literally sighed while I was writing those scenes!
shawnmisakiusui: No worries! I'm glad you like it! Thanks for reading!
BlueKitten-Nya: Thanks! My plan is to include all the characters from the manga into my story. The only question is when. So stay tune. ;]
In less than seven hours, her life would change drastically again.
In was less than seven hours before she would be in Tokyo, the largest and most populous city of Japan.
In less than seven hours her privacy will be compromise as the paparazzi will flash their cameras at her.
In less than seven hours she will lose her status a single, widow, middle class woman and becomes a social elite and wife again for one of the most powerful and richest man of Asia.
The thought of being an instant socialite did not bode well for her.
Damn.
Misaki laid her head down on the desk, feeling mentally exhausted just from looking at her planner that had the time for public appearance. She cursed herself for remembering. It was distracting her from her schoolwork on the first day of class! Fortunately, the professor seemed to not mind the short attention span the students were suffering from.
So far, the instructor was rambling from the syllabus displayed on the overhead, giving the same speech teachers told their students year after year. She felt less guilty for not listening to the teacher. For the time being, the instructor has not lectured on today's lesson, leaving Misaki to be occupied in her own thoughts.
To her dismay, her thoughts trailed back to the impending appearance in Tokyo.
After she admitted her first worry to Gerard, she was grateful for his support, however, that wasn't the only problem she was agonizing over. There were two more hanging over her head. It troubled her so much that she failed to sleep peacefully since the first time she dreamt about it on that fateful Saturday afternoon.
A part of her wonder why she didn't tell Gerard her other worries. He has been considerate about her wellbeing and feelings. He has been the type of person Misaki always wanted in her life. So why should this be any different? She was fairly sure he would understanding as always, but there was something holding her back.
There wasn't an exact word she can name it. Rather, it was a feeling plaguing her conscience. From Saturday, her worries were slowly eating away the safe and comfort she was enjoying. She was aware that it was spreading like a cancer. Misaki knew she was trying to keep it together, concealing the pain for as long as she can endure before it breaks her.
It was hard for Misaki to believe that she was on the steps to enter the plane. A private jet to be exact. According to Cedric, Gerard left for Tokyo earlier in day and made traveling arrangements for Misaki. She took the time to observe the plane. It was clean, expansive, and ridiculously expensive. She eyed the mini-bar on the corner, mentally guessing that the glasses sitting on that rack was worth ten times her paycheck.
To her relief, Cedric accompanied her on the plane ride. He gave her privacy, allowing her to rewrite her notes and study. During the three hour trip, she fell asleep on the comfortable plane seat with her notes covering her, creating a makeshift blanket. She felt a strong and gentle hand lightly touching her shoulder. Misaki was grateful Cedric woke her up thirty minutes before the plane descended, however apprehension she suppressed in her sleep resurfaced again.
Misaki thought she would never admit this, but she really wished Gerard was with her now.
When she arrived in the terminal, Li Yi and Arashiyama were waiting for her. Before she greeted the couple, they quickly ushered out of the building and into a SUV waiting in the parking lot. After being carted to the car in a rough manner, she felt winded and sweaty. In contrast, Cedric was able to maintain speed with the group while carrying Misaki's baggage without breaking a sweat. Cedric was sitting in the back, texting Gerard their location. Misaki sat in the seats in front of the butler with Li Yi, who was brushing her tangled hair.
As she brushed the tangles, Li Yi quickly explained time was the essence to make Misaki presentable. Before Misaki had the chance to reply, the SUV came to a stop at the side entrance The Peninsula. She was ushered out of the vehicle and she barely had time to gaze at the structure or the interior decoration. Li Yi and Arashiyama led her to a penthouse. In the penthouse, the room was transformed into a dressing room. Cedric unpacked her heels and dressed, while Misaki was ushered again into a bathroom to shower. She was warned to not take too long, leaving Misaki to bask in warmth and relaxation for a short time.
The hair styling and applying makeup proved to be a test of patience and endurance for Misaki Ayuzawa. She had zero idea how models, socialites, or celebrities do it, but this experience as given her a new profound respect for these people that do this on daily basis. She found herself tuning out as Li Yi dried her hair and styled it and Arashiyama put makeup on. Every once and awhile she heard the couple bicker, but she paid no attention to that matter. When her makeover was done, she was given privacy to put on her dress and heels. Her legs wobbled from sitting too long, but she managed change without any hassle.
After completing the task, Misaki noticed her reflection in the mirror. Although she has seen herself in this dress before, it amazed her to see herself differently in a good way. Gazing at the mirror, Misaki admired herself wearing a royal purple Hermès one shoulder evening gown. Her hair was split from the back and it was curled. On her feet, she was wearing black heels that made her a centimeter or two taller. Her nails were manicured to perfection and adorn with a simple coat of nail polish. Her makeup was subtle, except for her eyes. She had the smokey eye look thanks to craftsmanship of Arashiyama.
Gerard was notified by Li Yi when Misaki went off to change. When he arrived at the penthouse, he noticed the smirking grins the couple was giving him as they were packing up their equipment. He knew it was futile to ask them what Misaki looked like, so he thank them and decided to wait for Misaki. When she walked out and noticed her reflection in the mirror, his heart stopped.
Never before he has seen a woman more beautiful than the one before him. She was truly an elegant woman by her own right. It was amazing to the see the transformation. Gerard smirked, looks like he owes Arashiyama and Li Yi a favor. Perhaps he get another contact to help advertise their future business.
Satisfied by her looks, Misaki turned around to see Gerard sitting in a leather armchair with a smile plastered on his face. "How long have you been standing there?" she asked, feeling very self-conscious. "Long enough to gaze at your beauty," he replied as he stood up. She blushed and muttered, "Well thanks. It...it isn't much."
He took a step closer. "No, it isn't much to describe how stunning you look. You really look beautiful my love."
She blushed even harder. "You flatter me too much."
"Nonsense." Then, he enveloped his arms around her frame. "You truly do not see yourself clearly as others do." He gave her a meaning hug. "I came here to pick you up. We need a thirty-minute preparation with the television crew."
"That soon?" Misaki did not realized it would take that long to be ready.
He nodded. "You ready to go?"
She blinked at his statement. Was she ready to go? She was dressed for the part, but she was not mentally prepared. Misaki did not want to go, but she has to do this. She must do this for their sake. She looked at him squarely. "Ready," she said.
They made their way down to the lobby. This time Misaki was able to sight see the hotel. Admiring the interior design was futile against her concerns. She was trying her best to conceal it, but she knew it would not fool him for long.
She was right when they were standing side by side on the elevator ride down.
It was silent for a brief period, then Gerard spoke up. "What's wrong love?"
Misaki struggled to speak, then the words poured at as the elevator made its slow descent.
"I have two concerns," Misaki admitted."The first one is my father. Gerard looked at her, waiting for her to continue. "He left the country in order to escape embezzlement, credit card fraud, money laundering, and bank fraud charges." She sighed. "My father went through great lengths to fund his gambling addiction and left us at a great debt. He created a scandal the media would love to expose."
She drew a breath, clearly exasperated from talking about her father. "My concern is when the news is published, I believe he would come back and try to the money. Your money," she clarified. "I have no doubt he would he even draw attention to himself and Japan would soon learn about the disgrace of the Ayuzawa family."
"He won't."
Misaki glanced at him, raising her eyebrows in confusion.
"I will make sure that man would not interfere with your family. Even though he might try to use you due to our marital status, do not forget that bank fraud he tried to conduct was through my company. I am not afraid to press charges and use all means necessary to permanently ruin him for the rest of his life," Gerard replied firmly. "I will protect you all from him."
Misaki was touched. It was a wonderful feeling to have someone other than her mother and sister care for her.
"Now, would you care to tell me your other concern?" Gerard gently asked.
Oh crap, Misaki thought. How will I explain this?
Before she opened her mouth, the elevator dinged and the door opened. They were on the lobby floor. It was busy with the camera crew arranging their equipment and security guards trying to organize the press. "We'll talk about this later love," Gerard replied. He grabbed her hand as he stepped out, leaving Misaki no choice, but to follow him. As she walked out with him, he gave him a grin of reassurance. She smiled in returned as she squeezed his hand.
It amazed Misaki how long it took the camera crew to prepare. Fortunately she has not done other than standing in front of the podium for camera positioning and microphone testing. Also, she was requested to have some pictures taken of herself and others with Gerard. Once the preparations were done, Gerard and Misaki had a ten minute break before they went on air.
"How are you doing?" Gerard asked as he sat down next to her. "Fine. I didn't expect this to be so chaotic," Misaki replied, referring to the crowd, "but I also didn't expect this to be so easy for us." Gerard laughed. "They do go out of their way to make it convenient for us. It's their way to repay us for taking our time out our busy schedule to do an interview. I will be doing most of the talking, so just relax and remain calm. Thinking with a clear mind will enable you to say what you want the press to hear."
Misaki nodded in comprehension. Right. I have to remain calm and collected.
One of the camera man jogged up to the pair and informed them they will be airing soon. Gerard thank him and stand up. He turned and offered his hand to Misaki. "Ready?"
"Ready."
She was off to her new life.
The public announcement took no more than thirty minutes. Just as Gerard promised, he did most of the talking; he had to explain his survival from the massacre and a simple love story that the reporters easily accepted. When Misaki spoke, there were questions about her reaction to their class differences, her goals in life, and her happiness with Gerard Although the press seemed sympathetic to her, she remembered Gerard's advice and gave information she only wanted the media to know.
The press conference ended when Gerard concluded to answer more questions. He took Misaki's hand and led her away from the conference site and down the hallway. The retreating figures were masked by security guards that refused to grant access to persistent reporters.
As they walked down the hallway, Gerard asked, "Are you hungry?" Misaki's stomach growled in response. He gave a short laugh and informed her that they had a reservation at the hotel restaurant private rooms. "I'm sure you can endure walking in those heels a while longer love. It's a short walk."
"I think you underestimate me," Misaki chimed in. "I had to wear boots with heels at my old job and I wear pumps whenever I'm needed for a trial. I'm already use to this. We girls can take on the pain."
"It seems I have," he replied. "I'm sorry love." Then he changed subjects. "You did a wonderful job at the press conference. I'm very proud of you."
Her faced instantly transformed from pale to hot pink. "Thank you."
"I think I figured out your other concern."
Misaki blinked in surprised. "You have?"
Gerard confirmed. "Indeed. I gather you are afraid that once this press conference is over. This 'illusion' of me will fade away and I will revert to my past self." He stopped walking and glanced at Misaki. "Love, I would never do that. I made myself clear to you that I want to be a better husband. Now that word is out, everyone will know you are loved and cared. They will also know that we are not the average socialite couple. They will see genuine love and trust."
Tears began welled up. Misaki knew she was getting too emotional these days, but Gerard keeps saying meaningful and wonderful words to her. It was like he was the romance hero she always read and dream about. "Damnit, you're making me ruin my makeup Arashiyama-san worked hard to apply." Gerard handed her a handkerchief as a token of apology.
After she dabbed her eyes, Misaki replied, "Now that's all cleared up. I guess I can move forward. I'm free from my past. I'm not afraid anymore. The future, the unknown doesn't seem scary now that I know I have support from you Gerard."
This time, it was Gerard's turn to blink. "I can call you that right?" Misaki asked hastily. His surprised face turn into a gentle smile. "You certainly may, Misaki. May I call you that?"
"Of course Gerard."
"We should hurry over to the restaurant. We don't want to keep Li Yi-san and Arashiyama-san waiting."
Although Misaki's dad has been introduced and it was revealed why he left, I decided to not change my original concept for him. He will play an important part in the future. Now that Gerard and Misaki are much better terms, it is time for more fluff!
See you next week! Please review! =]