Chapter Six: Birthday Surprise!
Tsukasa was in a fit of hysterics as Sanosuke, Kenji, and Akihito showed him the photographs of his attackers being beaten up, at their favorite spot at the back of the school under the trees.
"We thought you would really like these little Kodak moments" Sanosuke replied sarcastically.
"This is better then television" Tsukasa chortled, "I can't believe you guys got these for me."
"Hey if it weren't for your list" Akihito shrugged, "We would never have known exactly who hit where and how many times."
"Has Yuki seen these yet?"
"Yukito took them" Kenji answered, "I wonder where he is anyway?"
"Probably in his usual spot."
"Hey Tsukasa where is Suzuna today?" Sanosuke asked, "Isn't today the one day of week you're supposed to have lunch?"
"Yea it is but she doesn't know I am back yet. So she probably is with Yuki right now. I'm gonna go look for her" he added getting to his feet, "I have something to give her anyway."
"Oh wait!" Sanosuke called him back briefly, "Is it true She's back in town?"
"Yea. She got in last night. You know what that means. Throw out all the plans about having our version of my party this weekend. She's already been setting up a big huge celebration for me this" he sighed heavily.
"Well maybe when can do something afterwards?"
"Maybe. I'll see you guys later" he took off running.
"Man" Kenji heaved a sigh of his own, "The Dragon Lady is back in town. This sucks!"
"I second that" Sanosuke nodded.
"Ditto" Akihito agreed with a frown.
(Next Scene: Fourth Floor; Balcony behind the Music Room)
As it turned out Suzuna was actually alone on the balcony most of lunchtime until Yukito arrived quite surprised to see her.
"What are you doing up here this time of day?" he asked with a smile as he walked over to her, "Usually you're in the lunchroom with your friends."
"That's true" she nodded, "But I needed to find a place to hide for a little while " she added cryptically with a knowing look to which he nodded.
"Ah" he said, "You're getting a little claustrophobic from the bodyguards."
"No kidding" she shook her head, "Ever since the incident with Tsukasa my mother has been completely paranoid. I mean she'll still let Tsukasa drive me back and forth everyday. But the bodyguards watch as he picks me up, they watch us he drops me off. They're around the corner from every classroom I am in. And today in the lunchroom there were at least four of them standing guard. I feel like I am the president's daughter. This is ridiculous. So I came up here for some peace and to be bodyguard less for a couple of hours."
"I don't blame you" he nodded, "But I also don't blame your mother. I mean if you think about it under the circumstances, you were kidnapped when you were younger, and almost now too by the same people. And then to have you suddenly disappear and end up in the hospital because of it. I'd have to say that your mother's reaction is more then justified."
"I know. It's just weird you know. Having them follow me, like I am some kind of celebrity or something. It's just odd."
"Eventually you'll get used to it" he nodded when they heard footsteps on the back stairs and Tsukasa appeared.
"What are you doing here?" Suzuna replied as he walked over, "I thought you were still in the hospital."
"I got out three days ago" he answered, "I've been recovering at home since then. But I felt well enough to come today so I did."
"I see. But why didn't you call me?"
"Well I wanted to surprise you" he said shyly.
"And that's my cue to exit" Yukito replied pulling away from the wall, "I'll see you both later" he added as he departed.
Suzuna smiled slightly and then turned to her boyfriend.
"So you're feeling much better?" she asked as they leaned against the wall.
"Yep. Ship shape. I heal pretty fast."
"So I noticed" she nodded, "Did you need something from me?"
"Huh?"
"You almost never come here" she observed.
"Oh. Well now that you mention it, why are you here this time of day?"
"I have bodyguard problems" she said simply.
"Yea. Sanosuke was telling me that. Your mom is a little worried."
"Mmm. Little isn't the word. She's quite determined to keep me safe. So much to the point that it's kind of hard to go anywhere at the moment without one of those guys on my tail."
"Well is it so bad that you can't go to a social gathering without one?" he asked casually.
"Huh? Social gathering?"
"Like this weekend for example. Do think your mother would let you go to something like that without a bodyguard if I am there?"
"What social gathering?"
"This one" he handed her an envelope, "My seventeenth birthday is this weekend and I would like to invite you."
"You didn't tell me your birthday was coming up" she smiled slightly as she read the fancy invitation.
"Well I am telling you now. Do you think you could come?"
"I don't know."
"Please Suzuna I really want you to be there. The Wolf Pack is going to be there and Shiori. Without you it won't be a party for me. I'm just gonna be stuck with a bunch of my father's colleagues and my mother's friends. People I hardly care for."
"Your mother's friends?"
"Yea, that's the other thing. I want you to come because my mother is going to be there and I want to introduce you to her."
"Your mother?" Suzuna repeated a bit surprised.
"Mhm. So say you'll come. I'm sure you can get permission to. For one night."
"All right Tsukasa. If you really want me to be there, I'll come. But I am surprised. This isn't the type of thing you would want for a birthday party."
"No, but she came back into town all of a sudden and insisted on throwing me one. I'm sure the guys will do something for me on their own afterwards, which will be a lot more fun. Anyway the party is Saturday night. Since we don't have any school that day there's no real pressure to get ready right away" he heard the bell ring and was about to head towards the steps, "Oh yea, don't forget my present."
"What?"
"You have to show up with a present. How's it gonna look if my girlfriend doesn't show up with one."
"All right" she nodded as he walked back down the steps, "What a way to ask for a gift" she shook her head.
(Next Scene: The Candy Shop; Friday Night)
"And the thing is Miyu" Suzuna said as she finished telling her about the invite, "I don't have a clue what to get him. I mean what doesn't he have? What does he want? You know the truth is I don't know much about him."
"But you guys are going out?"
"I know but the fact of reality is Tsukasa and I haven't even been on our first real date yet. We got together just after the revelation of my past life. And the thing with Takechi set things aside for awhile so I really don't know what he's in to. I mean I can afford to buy him a gift now. But I have no idea what to buy him."
"Well who says you have to buy the gift? Why can't you just make him something?"
"Huh?"
"To make something for someone is much more personal I think. He'll probably be touched by the thought."
"Yea but, what can I make him?" she sighed.
"You can make him something from here" Miyu suggested.
"From the Candy Shop?"
"Yea. You could bake him a cake or maybe make him some cookies."
"Cookies?"
"Mhm. I'll help you. We can do it tonight."
"I guess I could do that" she nodded, "I'm not very at good baking but I wonder if he's the type of guy who would accept something homemade though."
"Trust me if he loves you, he'll accept anything. Now let's get to work" she added rolling up her sleeves.
"You're right" she nodded following suit, "Let's go."
About an hour later Suzuna was finishing up her batch of cookies. They were made just like any other but she had made them to look like the different faces and moods of Tsukasa.
"So what do you think?" Suzuna asked.
"I think they're adorable" Miyu squealed.
"Do you think he'll like them?"
"I'm sure he will."
"Let's hope so" she shrugged wrapping them up neatly in a small white box and tying it with a light blue ribbon.
(Next Scene: Naoki Residence; Suzuna's Room)
The next afternoon Suzuna was in her closet trying to decide from the many outfits that she owned what would be the most appropriate thing to wear. She was startled when a very mousy looking young woman entered.
"Excuse Miss Suzuna" the young woman said.
"Yes. Do I know you?"
"I'm Haruka. I just started today. As your personal maid" she added with a bow of her head.
"Oh" Suzuna replied slowly, "Hello Haruka. It's nice to meet you."
"Yes. I look forward to working for you Miss Suzuna" she nodded enthusiastically.
"Forgive me for asking this Haruka, but how old are you?"
"I am eighteen miss. Oh I almost forgot" she shook her head, "Mr. Harada sent me up to fetch you."
"Is there something wrong?" Suzuna asked putting the dress she was holding back onto the hanger.
"Oh no, it's just you have some visitors waiting for you downstairs."
"Visitors?" Suzuna raised an eyebrow.
"Yes. They are waiting for you in the main entryway. Please allow me to take care of that for you" she picked up the other dress that was flung over the arm of a chair, "While you attend to your guests."
"Thank you Haruka" Suzuna nodded back still a little bit wary of the idea of a personal maid.
As she walked downstairs she was surprised to see the entire Wolf Pack minus Tsukasa waiting for her. They were all dressed in fancy suits and ties.
"What are you guys doing here?" she asked as she walked over to them.
"Hey Suzuna" Sanosuke replied with a grin, "Nice place."
"Thank you. But what's going on? Why are you guys here?"
"We came to pick you up" Akihito answered as Kenji shyly looked away, "For the party."
"But the party isn't for another two hours. Why are you here so early?"
"Well we wanted to talk with you first before the party" Sanosuke said.
"About what?" she shook her head confused.
"Your room is up this way right?" Akihito pointed as he and Kenji began to walk upstairs.
"Yes but. Guys!" she called as she ran after them and Sanosuke and Yukito followed steadily behind, "What are you doing?" she added as they all entered the room and Haruka departed, "Why are you in my room?"
"The closet's probably over there" Yukito told Kenji who immediately walked into it and began to look at the outfits, "Like we said downstairs we need to talk to you."
"And like I said downstairs, about what?"
"Could you sit down Suzuna?" Akihito asked pulling her over to a chair by her vanity and sorting out her makeup.
"Okay" she nodded slightly, "Why do you guys look so upset? You look like you're scared about something."
"Well in a matter of speaking" Sanosuke began, "It is a little scary. But it doesn't have to be."
"That's awful cryptic" she shook her head a second time as Akihito began to apply some of the makeup to her face and Kenji held up an outfit to which Yukito shook his head.
"Not that one" Kenji went back into the closet, "What Sano's trying to say is at the party today, Tsukasa's mom is going to be there."
"I know. He told me. What about it?" she asked as Yukito shook his head at another one of the outfits that Kenji held up.
"Well, Tsukasa's mother is, she's uh" Sanosuke began fidgeting slightly.
"Strictly speaking" Akihito continued, "She's a very strong, tough, hard kind of woman who well, she" he finished nervously.
"Oh let's face. The woman is a hell hound."
"Huh?"
"She's the scariest woman on the face of the planet" Sanosuke concluded with a nervous nod from the rest.
"Come on" Suzuna almost laughed, "You can't be serious."
"Oh yes we can" Akihito replied, "She is without a doubt the scariest person I have met."
"I'd have to agree with that!" Kenji called as he held up a third outfit.
"Keep looking" Yukito told him, "They're right. Mrs. Sakamoto is a woman to behold. Why we have been terrified of her ever since we have been kids."
"She's the Dragon Lady" Kenji called a second time.
"Dragon Lady?"
"Oh yea. Our nickname for her. If you can tell none of us really like her" Akihito nodded, "And she doesn't like us either. She thinks we're a bad influence on her son."
"When it's the other way around" Sanosuke pointed out.
"Yea."
"Why are you guys telling me all this? Are you trying to scare me?"
"No. No Suzuna" Yukito said sitting down in a chair close to her and taking her hand, "We're just trying to warn you."
"Warn me? About what?" she looked from one worried face to the other, "Do you think she's gonna try something?"
"We don't know. But Tsukasa inviting you to this party as his girlfriend tonight, is kind of a big deal" Sanosuke replied as Akihito finished with her makeup.
"What makes it such a big deal? I don't understand."
"You see Suzuna, you don't know this yet because you have just started living like us but there are a lot of misconceptions about the rich that the middle class doesn't know about" Yukito said slowly.
"Such as what?"
"We have certain obligations that we must follow as children of highly upstanding families. One of those obligations requires us to follow the will of our parents. We don't get to do what we want all the time like the world thinks."
"What Yukito is trying to say" Akihito added gently taking her other hand, "Is, since we are who we are and now you're one of us, we think it's time you know something that we didn't tell you before."
"And that is?" she asked as Yukito stood up and accepted the fourth outfit that Kenji had brought out.
"Tonight's party for you seems like just an introduction right?" Sanosuke asked as she nodded, "But to Tsukasa's mother it's like she is being introduced to her future daughter in law."
"What?" Suzuna stood to her feet.
"She's gonna be looking at you as if you are future daughter in law material."
"That's ridiculous. We have only been dating for a month now. We haven' t even had an official date yet."
"Nevertheless that's how she is going to look at it."
"Why?"
"Because that is how all of our parents would see it" Akihito said sadly lowering his head.
"Huh?"
"Remember when I spoke of obligations earlier" Yukito continued and she nodded, "This is one of them. As the future leaders of the families, the one's who will take over the family business someday we are obligated to make the right choices for our future, but usually those choices are chosen for us."
"Chosen for you?"
"Yea. That includes what we do in life in the future" Sanosuke replied with a sigh, "Or who we end up with."
"You see Suzuna" Kenji spoke up finally, "One or maybe all of us may have potential fiancées in our future."
"What?"
"It's true" Akihito nodded, "Even Tsukasa may have one. None of us know because we're still in high school but most of the time in families like ours the fiancée has already been chosen long ago."
"Yea" Sanosuke said bitterly, "It's not even our choice. Even you might be faced with the same thing, now that you found out who you are."
"Me?"
"Mhm" Yukito nodded, "Which is why we wanted to prepare you tonight for what you are up against. His mother is going to analyzing you. Observing you. That's just the sad fact of things."
"The truth is Suzuna" Sanosuke replied because she was so silent, "We like that you and Tsukasa are together. We like you two as a couple and since we're the Wolf Pack and he's our leader we will do what we can to defend our leader's mate."
"Mate?" she chuckled.
"Just like we always promised" Akihito added, "To each other."
"So it's extremely imperative that things go well tonight" Sanosuke finished as Yukito handed Suzuna the outfit, "It's why we came this afternoon, had this talk with you, and why were are making sure that you wear that particular outfit and have on that particular makeup on. We're just looking out for you."
"I appreciate that. I'm really touched by everything you guys are doing. I'm sure he would be too."
"So we're are your escorts of the evening" Akihito bowed.
"In that case I'd better go get ready" she nodded, "I should be out in a few minutes" she added before departing to the bathroom to change.
A few moments later she was back wearing the fancy teal dress that Yukito had picked out along with a pair of earrings that Kenji had suggested. They all complimented her on her outfit as she grabbed the bag with her gift and then one by one walked out the bedroom door. Since Yukito was right behind her he turned to her and whispered one last note.
"Suzuna" he replied.
"Hmm?"
"You look really good tonight. But I want you to keep something else in mind okay."
"Mhm."
"Tsukasa's mother in the same way as her son has a very condescending way of talking. Now I know you. You're not one to stand for that. And while I admire that about you, just for tonight do you think maybe you could."
"Keep my temper under control?" she finished with a smile.
"Yea" he nodded, "If you could."
"I think I can do that. Besides this is Tsukasa's birthday. I wouldn't want to do anything to spoil it."
"That a girl" he smiled as he closed her door behind them and they walked down the stairs to join the others.
(Next Scene: Sakamoto Residence; Main Ballroom)
The party was completely underway when they finally arrived. So many of the guests were dressed smartly and Suzuna was grateful for the Wolf Pack's, princely assistance earlier in picking out her outfit and makeup. As she removed her coat she noticed her own prince charming standing towards the front in a beautiful black tuxedo. He was politely speaking to some older guests who had just handed him a box with a car key in it.
"Thank you very much for coming" he replied nonchalantly as Suzuna placed her gift on a chair covering it at once with her coat. Yukito noticed her move and asked a servant to take care of her things. Then he and the Wolf Pack along with Suzuna walked over to their friend who had accepted another check for like the tenth time.
"There you guys are" he said angrily, "Where have you been? I've been going crazy."
"Sorry we're late buddy" Sanosuke replied with a grin, "But we had to go pick up Suzuna."
"Oh well thanks for getting her here. Hey" he added with a smile as she walked up to him.
"Hey. Happy Birthday."
"Thanks. I am so glad you're here. I am so officially bored. The party has been going on for an hour now and I really wanted to bail like ten minutes after it started."
"Don't worry pal" Akihito said patting his shoulder, "We got something planned for you later."
"I cannot wait" he sighed in relief as Shiori came over dressed in gold.
"Hey you guys made it" she replied happily, "Suzuna I am so glad that you came" she added embracing the girl lovingly.
"Hey Shiori" Suzuna said with a smile as they pulled away.
"I want to hear all your news later. But now, Tsukasa" she whispered, "Mom's on the warpath."
"When is she not" he replied taking a drink from his cup, "Come on Suzuna I am going to get you something drink" he said pulling her away towards the refreshment table.
"Did you guys have the talk?" Shiori asked Sanosuke because Yukito had turned from her.
"Yea. We did. I think she understands" Sanosuke replied, "We're having a smaller party afterwards just us, do you want to come?"
"I am so there" she nodded as Akihito handed his friends a cup of punch.
As they arrived at the refreshment table one of the guests approached Tsukasa.
"Congratulations Mr. Sakamoto" the man replied as he shook his hand.
"Thank you."
"A little token of our esteem" he handed him a check.
"Thanks" he nodded placing the check in his pocket, "And also thank you for coming."
"My pleasure. I was just wondering about your guest. I noticed her when she came in" he said indicating Suzuna.
"Oh yes of course" Tsukasa nodded, "This is Suzuna Naoki, she's my girlfriend."
"The Suzuna Naoki?"
"Yes sir" she nodded a little shyly.
"The one that was separated from her family for ten years? she nodded a second time, "I read about you in the paper? How remarkable that you went through all of that and here you are standing before us."
"I guess so" she nodded a third time and Tsukasa saw how uncomfortable she had become.
"Well we have a few other people to talk to so if you'll excuse us" he said taking her arm gently and steering her into the opposite direction.
" Of course. It was a pleasure meeting you Miss Naoki" he bowed his head.
"You as well" she bowed her head back, "Thanks for that" she whispered to him.
"You look like you needed a bit of rescuing there."
"You're always there when I need you to rescue me aren't you?" she replied looking into his eyes lovingly as he stared back into hers gently.
"Tsukasa" a penetrating tone interrupted them as she approached.
They turned to see a tall, thin woman with long dark hair and deep brown eyes. The color of her lipstick was bright red and her nose was quite pointy. She had a certain air about her and as Suzuna took in her appearance she could see how the Wolf Pack could be terrified of her.
"Mother?" he said slowly.
"Aren't you going to introduce me to your friend?" she asked politely much to Suzuna's surprise.
"Of course. Suzuna this is my mother, Serika Sakamoto. Mother this is Suzuna Naoki."
"Ah yes. Miss Naoki" she smiled, "I've heard a lot about you."
"You have?"
"Of course. After all my daughter was the one who discovered your true identity. You must be so happy that it's all been settled."
"I suppose so."
"Naturally of course, you are glad to be back where you really belong."
"Yes I guess" she nodded furrowing her eyebrows slightly.
"I understand that originally despite being in the type of family you were in that you got into Aonaki Academy on a music scholarship. Is that correct?"
"Yes mam" she nodded beginning to dislike the woman more and more as The Wolf Pack moved closer to their friends.
"For the piano I believe?"
"Yes."
"Well how wonderful. You know it's a tradition in the Sakamoto family for new guests to display their wonderful talents. Would you do us the honor Miss Naoki, this evening by playing one of your songs?"
"Oh uh" Suzuna said hesitating.
"Mother" Tsukasa shook his head.
"You see Suzuna's really tired" Sanosuke interrupted, "I mean she has been very busy lately."
"Yea" Akihito nodded backing up the defense, "And there are so many people here it would be kind of awkward for her."
"Well if she doesn't feel obligated to play, she doesn't have to. I just wanted to see for myself if her reputation is as good as they say. After all she did grow up in a lower class then this one, who knows exactly what her education in the piano is."
Before Suzuna could respond Yukito stepped forward and said exactly what she wanted to.
"She'll play" Yukito replied as they all looked at him, "Won't you Suzuna? Why don't you show them just how good you are?"
"I would be honored to" she nodded as she moved past Mrs. Sakamoto and over to the piano at once.
"Yuki what are you thinking?" Sanosuke asked as Tsukasa moved up to the front with his mother.
"I think it's time that Suzuna shows the Dragon Lady just what she's capable of. In a way it's not a direct attack but it will be effective."
"I thought we agreed that we didn't want anything like this tonight?" Akihito said as Kenji nodded.
"True. But in this case I think it's time that Suzuna stood up for herself."
Suzuna sat down at the piano as Mrs. Sakamoto announced about her playing. All the guests gathered around and listened as Suzuna eloquently played a piece of music so beautiful that most of the female guests were in tears by the end of it and some of the men were close. Everyone clapped after she was done and then Mrs. Sakamoto walked up to her.
"Well it appears that you have quite the talent Miss Naoki. I am impressed."
"Thank you for your compliments Mrs. Sakamoto" Suzuna bowed her head.
"When I say I am impressed it's because I highly doubted at first that you would be as good as you are seeing where you come from."
"And I suppose you think that a girl who comes from that kind of a life would receive a different education. Because I assure you Mrs. Sakamoto no matter where a pianist comes from the education is all the same. Whether you're a poor girl or a rich one. Because I believe even if I hadn't found my real family I would still be as good as I am now if I had remained with my poor one" she added sarcastically, "It doesn't matter where you come from, what matters is, is the talent that you possess. And the person you are and want to be. Wouldn't you agree?"
"I suppose" Mrs. Sakamoto nodded slowly catching her eye, "If you'll excuse me Miss Naoki. I have other guests to attend to."
"Of course" Suzuna smiled as Tsukasa came up to her with an astonished expression and she frowned instantly.
"That was" he practically exclaimed, "That was the most amazing thing I have ever seen or witnessed in my life."
"You don't think that was too over the top?" she winced slightly with her hands behind her back.
"No way. Not only did you play the most beautiful piece of music I have ever heard but you talked back to my mother. My mother. Nobody does that. I have a new high respect for you."
"I wasn't trying to, it's just it came out. She deserved it anyway."
"Oh she did" he nodded, "She absolutely did. There's no doubt there. And the way you did it. It was so subtle. Not like you at all."
"Well I thought I'd try something different. Besides I didn't want to interrupt your guests with another one of my terrible outbursts."
"You're amazing you know that" he smiled, "Despite not bringing a gift which I did notice by the way" he added cockily.
"About that I" she began.
"Tsukasa" his mother called to him from the refreshment table.
"I'll be right back" he whispered in her ear and then walked over, "Yes mother."
"I am rather disappointed in you."
"What?"
"I thought you had better tastes. But the fact that you invited such a girl to this party leads me to believe that perhaps I was wrong."
"Mother what are you trying to say?" he frowned crossing his arms.
"That girl is not suitable. I do not approve of her. Yes she may be the daughter of a very wealthy man now. But that's now. But it is clear to me that she still has a lot of her old upbringing inside of her. She is not fit to be a member of this family."
"Mother" he shook his head, "Don't do this here."
"I do not accept her" her voice began to rise, "I want to make that perfectly clear to you. I want you to end it with her tonight."
"What? No" he shook his head.
"What did you say to me?"
"I said no. You can't tell me who I can be with and who I can?" he added as the Wolf Pack moved closer and Shiori stood next to Suzuna.
"Oh yes I can Tsukasa. I am your mother. And you are the son of the Sakamoto family. You have obligations and responsibilities to this family that you must adhere to."
"Yes, later. But I am not even out of high school yet. Do you think you can rule my life like you rule my sisters? I won't let you. You are not going to stop me from seeing her. She's my girlfriend mother. And I love her. And there is nothing you can do about that" he finished.
The sound of her hand hitting his left cheek was deafening as she struck him. Suzuna gasped as she saw this and then he turned to his mother with a glare.
"You will not speak to me like that. Especially in front of all these people. How dare you raise your voice to me. Apologize at once."
"No" he shook his head, "I won't apologize to you. I won't break up with Suzuna either. Not a chance in hell. You can't make me" he walked over and took Suzuna by the hand, "We're leaving" he said pulling her towards the door.
"Tsukasa" she replied slowly.
"Tsukasa you are not leaving this party!" his mother shouted.
"Watch me."
"Guards! Guards!" she called, "Do not let him leave!"
The guards started to run towards the couple but Akihito and Sanosuke tripped two of them.
"Aw I am so sorry" Sanosuke replied sarcastically, "Clumsy me. I should have been looking where I was going."
"Me too man" Akihito nodded, "I am so sorry."
"Guards!" Mrs. Sakamoto's voice rang out as Yukito ran over and handed Suzuna the package containing Tsukasa's gift.
"You two better get out of here and fast" he replied also handing her coat to her.
"Don't worry. We'll take care of everything. Just go!" he insisted as he and Kenji started to block the entrance from the other guards.
Tsukasa ran with Suzuna to the garage and they jumped into his car. Just as the guards arrived outside he tore out of the driveway and down the road faster then they could even react.
"Man I cannot believe her!" he shouted as he drove, "The nerve of her telling me I had to break up with you because she doesn't approve. And in front of everyone too. That pisses me off!"
"Tsukasa calm down or you'll crash" Suzuna said soothingly.
"You're right" he nodded, "I'm sorry" he replied gripping the wheel more firmly, "Man she just makes me so mad. She tries to act like my mother when she hasn't been around half my life. It's just not right."
"I agree."
"But I can't stand up to her the way you can. It sucks! My life sucks! No my mother sucks! Not my life."
"Well it's still your birthday" she replied trying to cheer him up, "And we didn't get to eat much at the party so what do you want to do?"
"You're right, I'm starving. I was not in the mood for all that crap she ordered either. I tell you what, let's go get a pizza and then go someplace and eat it."
"Go where?"
"Someplace they're not going to bother us. At least for the night. She would never send anyone out there. Not this late. Not when she has guests."
"Do you think the guys will be all right?"
"They'll be fine. Let's just say this isn't the first time this sort of thing has happened. They're pros at it, trust me."
(Next Scene: Hayakawa Estate)
Kenji kicked off his shoes as he leaned back in the armchair in Yukito's main living room.
"Man that was some fun. We haven't done anything like that in years."
"Who would have thought that we would have to do that sort of thing now, at this age?" Akihito replied pouring them all a glass of wine.
"Did you see the Dragon Lady? She was livid" Sanosuke chuckled, "I don't think I've ever seen that shade of red on her face before."
"She certainly wasn't happy with any of us either" Yukito added as he sat down on the couch next to Sanosuke, "She was calling us delinquents until we left."
"Ah who cares. To Tsukasa" Sanosuke held up his glass, "Happy Seventeenth Birthday wherever you are."
"And may it be a good place" Akihito, "One that is intimate and private."
"Here here!" Sanosuke said as they clanked glasses.
"Is that all you two ever think about?" Yukito replied with a roll of his eyes.
"We weren't thinking about that" Akihito said in defense, "We just want the two of them to get to know one another. After all they don't know much about each other now do they?"
"And on another note if we had meant that we would have used different words instead of intimate and private."
"I don't even want to know" Yukito said with another roll of his eyes.
"Hey guys. We're forgetting something" the smallest replied.
"What's that Kenj?" Sano asked.
"Well that Dragon Lady."
"What about her?"
"She's not going to take this thing lying down. This was an insult to her. And I know I'm not the smartest one here but don't you think it's possible that there might be retaliation for what happened tonight?"
"It's not only possible it's very probable" Yukito nodded, "You're right there is no way that she is going to just let this go."
"Yea" Sanosuke agreed sitting up at once, "Tonight she will because the party is going on but tomorrow could be a completely different story."
"Then we had better be prepared for whatever she throws at us" Akihito suggested.
"Yea" Sanosuke nodded back as they all nodded in silent agreement.
(Next Scene: Tsukasa's Yacht)
Suzuna was surprised that Tsukasa had taken her to his boat to spend the rest of the evening. He explained that it was one of the places his mother wouldn't look for him that late at night. They ate the pizza quietly and then he sighed as he leaned his head back on the couch that was behind him since they were sitting on the floor.
"What a crazy night" he said aloud.
"Strangest birthday party I've ever been to, next to your sisters."
"Yea. Well I will say this for the Sakamoto family. Our parties are never boring" he held up his glass of soda and then took a sip while she laughed, "I'm glad you came though."
"Really?"
"Yea. You made it more interesting."
"You mean I made it more harder for you."
"No interesting. I mean that. The party would have been real boring if you hadn't come."
"But you also wouldn't have gotten hit or gotten in trouble with your mother if I hadn't come either."
"So. I don't care about that. You're my girlfriend and I wanted you to be there. No questions asked. Don't you dare blame yourself for what happened tonight. I won't allow it."
"Okay. In that case I've got something for you" she pulled at the bag that was next to her.
"Huh?"
"It's your birthday present."
"But I thought you said you didn't have a birthday present for me?"
"No you assumed, because I hid it."
"Why?" he asked as he examined the bag that she had handed to him.
"Well I felt kind of embarrassed giving it to you in front of all those people. They were given you cars and checks. I just thought it was meaningless."
"Can I open it?"
"Of course" she nodded, "It's yours. It's nothing fancy or anything. I made it myself."
"You made it?" he asked surprised.
"Mhm" she nodded as he began to unwrap it, "I didn't know what to get you though so Miyu suggested that I make something for you. So Friday afternoon we made some cookies" she finished as he undid the ribbon, opened the box, and stared at it's contents with wide eyes.
"These are" he began.
"I know they look kind of funny. But I made them to look like your face. All your emotions you know."
"These are incredible. No one has ever made me anything before. They're so funny looking" he chuckled elatedly.
"I hope they taste all right. I'm not the best baker in the world."
"I'm sure they taste fine" he replied as he continued to examine them.
"You mean you're not going to try to them? Why won't you eat one?"
"No way. You just gave these to me. I'm not going to eat them. I'll ruin them" he held them from her grasp.
"Well at least let me have one."
"No. You gave these to me. It's my birthday present. You can't have one."
"Stingy" she crossed her arms.
"So."
She laughed and then turned to him with a loving gaze.
"You are so weird."
"Why?"
"They're just homemade cookies. They're not the best present in the world."
"Now that's where you're wrong. They are."
"Huh? That's just silly. They're misshapen. They probably taste bad and I" he cut her off as he kissed her deeply on the lips, "I forgot what I was saying."
"Good" he looked down into the box and grinned, "Thank you."
"You're welcome."
"No really thank you. Thank you for giving me, really the best gift I have ever received in my entire life."
"Tsukasa" she said her eyes softening.
"I mean it. I'll remember this always. This night. With you. This present. All of it. This is the best birthday I have ever had. And it's all thanks to you. I'm so glad you're here with me" he added turning to her.
"Me too" she nodded with a smile, "Happy Birthday Tsukasa" he leaned in to kiss her again, this time even more passionately.
(Next Scene: Later the next morning)
They spent the rest of the evening on the yacht. Since her parents were informed by Shiori that Suzuna was spending the night Tsukasa didn't return Suzuna home until five the next morning. After dropping her off he went over to Yukito's house. After finding out from the head butler that Yukito was still in bed he went to his friend's room and walked in.
"Hey Yuki!" he called, "Are you asleep?"
"Mmm" Yukito mumbled under the covers.
"Good you're awake. You know it's really dark in here. No wonder you sleep in practically all day. And you really got to get some furniture in here. There's nowhere to sit."
"Mmm" Yukito grumbled even louder as he tried to ignore him.
"Hey come on Yuki. I want to show you something. Get up."
"Tsukasa" he griped.
"Come on I want to show you Suzuna's present. Get up so you can see."
"Tsukasa do you know what time it is?" he said through gritted teeth as he kept his eyes shut.
"Uh about five thirty."
"Yes exactly. Most normal people are asleep at this hour" he rolled over onto his stomach with his eyes still shut, "What are you even doing here? Go home. I'll talk to you later" he rolled over on his side.
"I can't go home yet. She's still there. I gotta hang out here for awhile. Come on Yuki. Stay up. I'm bored. And I really want to show you Suzuna's present. Yukito" he was practically on his back now, "Look. She made me cookies" he held it down in his friend's face, "Aren't they cute? She made one of each of my expressions. I was really happy I can't tell you.. What are you doing?" he suddenly exclaimed as Yukito snapped the cookie that was in his hand in half and stuffed it in his mouth, "Yukito! That's my cookie! Don't you dare! Give it back!"
"Real tasty" Yukito said with a lick of his lips.
"How dare you eat my cookie. I'm gonna kill you."
"I'm gonna kill You if you don't get off My back by the time I count to five."
"Yuki."
"One."
"Okay. Okay. You're really serious."
"Yes!" he shouted, "I was up very late with the others celebrating your birthday! Now if you don't mind! Leave me alone!"
"Fine. I'll find some place else. Gees. Sano is right. You are cranky first thing in the morning."
"Get out!" he pointed without even lifting his head off the pillow.
"All right. I'm going. I'll see you later" he said as he left the room.
"Mmm" Yukito grumbled once more and then fell back to sleep.
About three hours later the Wolf Pack were all sitting down to brunch in Sanosuke's living room and Tsukasa was showing for like the fourth time his present from Suzuna.
"He really is excited about that gift isn't he?" Sanosuke said with a roll of his eyes.
"Tell me about it" Yukito nodded with a yawn, "Try hearing about it for the first time at five thirty in the morning as you're being drawn out of a deep sleep. Not pleasant."
"Seriously Tsukasa" Akihito interrupted his joy, "We're all excited about the present but we have to talk."
"About what?"
"About your mother" Sanosuke replied, "You know she's gonna do something. She's not going to let us get away with what happened last night. You know that."
"Yea. I know. Why do you think I haven't even been home yet. Look I don't really think we have anything to worry about. She's mad but so what? She'll get over it. She flies back to New York another day or so anyway. I just have to lay low until then."
"And you really think she's not going to try anything until then?" Kenji asked.
"I can't guarantee that. But that's not a problem. I can handle this guys."
"With our help maybe" Sanosuke pointed out.
"Okay. With your help. I'm not worried about it. What can she really do?"
"Oh" Akihito sighed, "I wouldn't put it past her to do something really drastic this time. It's not like you're six or seven anymore."
"True. But I am not the least bit concerned about it. Let her pitch her temper tantrum. She's not going to stop me from seeing Suzuna. So that's that."
"Whatever you say Tsukasa" Sanosuke said with a shrug as the others became silent and he went back to admiring his cookies.
(Next Scene: Sakamoto Residence)
Not much was said about the affair again until two days later when Yukito Hayakawa was invited specifically by Mrs. Sakamoto for chat and some tea. He suspected the invitation right away but being the kind of person he was he accepted it and went right away. He was escorted to the main tea room where she was waiting for him with a jovial smile.
"Good afternoon Mrs. Sakamoto" he said politely with a bow of his head.
"Good afternoon Mr. Hayakawa" she bowed her head back, "I am so glad you could come."
"Of course. How could I refuse such an invitation."
"Please sit down" she instructed which he followed, "I'll have tea and refreshments brought" she directed the servants at once.
"Thank you."
"I must say Yukito the other night at the party I almost didn't recognize you. You've grown up into a fine looking young man."
"Thank you" he nodded with another bow of his head, "How kind of you to say."
"I understand that you are doing quite well with your studies and that your future looks very bright indeed."
"Yes. I do believe so."
"Your father is working overseas right now isn't he?"
"Yes mam. Now he's in Shenghai."
"And you are to inherit his business after college?"
"That is the plan, yes."
"I also have heard that your mother's family is also eager to have you lead their company as well."
"Well me being the oldest grandson that has been discussed yes. But I think more than likely I will take the position in my father's company."
"I'm sure you will do well either way. You are a bright young man. A great deal brighter then my own son I must say. I have no doubts that will do exceptional in the business world."
"Um Mrs. Sakamoto" he began, "I'm sorry if I seem a bit abrupt in saying this, but you didn't ask me here just to discuss my future life did you?"
"As forward as your father would be Yukito" she smiled twistedly, "But you would be mistaken in saying so because it is your future I want to discuss."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I know your mother died when you were really young and you have never had a mother figure in your life so I feel somewhat responsible for you as my son's best friend. And I say best friend because out of all of his friends you seem to have your head more on your shoulders then the rest."
"Thanks, I think."
"So I'll get to the point, I understand that you and Suzuna Naoki are quite close."
"Now we get down to it" he thought, "Uh define how close?" he asked innocently.
"I heard that you and she were even closer before she and my son got together. Much in the same way you and my daughter once were. Now don't get me wrong I think you are a fine young man Yukito and you would have been wonderful for my daughter but not for the Sakamoto family. I feel the same way about Miss Naoki. While she is a bit unrefined she could be a proper wife for someone someday in her rank but she is not fit for the Sakamoto family."
"I see."
"I also hear that you have quite an affection for her already and that in itself is a good thing. I think you should pursue that affection. We both know how my son can be Yukito. Right now things are wonderful but you know he has a terrible temper and he won't be good for her. You on the other hand would make a perfect match. I suggest to you it would be in your best interest to ask her out."
"Mhm" he nodded slowly.
"Don't worry about Tsukasa. He'll get over her soon enough. This is just a faze he's going through. But I believe that you and she will make a much better match then he and she. That is all I have to say. I want you to think it over."
"Mrs. Sakamoto, there is nothing to think over."
"Excuse me?"
"While your suggestion is something that I could consider as advice it's also rather manipulative as well."
"I beg your pardon?" she replied her voice began to raise as he stood to his feet.
"I don't mean to be rude, but I could never do something like that Tsukasa or to Suzuna. They're both very important to me. It's not just a faze like you think it is. It's not, they love each other. Now you can make decisions on what you think is best for Shiori and Tsukasa and they most likely will have to comply but Suzuna on the hand you have no control over. Tsukasa may do as you wish and stop loving her but she won't stop loving him. And I respect that. I appreciate about your concern but I simply cannot do as you request. Good day to you" he bowed his head.
"I can respect that" she replied, "I suppose."
"One other thing. If you try to break them up you're gonna find opposition from the Wolf Pack."
"Excuse me? Isn't that the silly name you and your little friends call yourselves?"
"That's right. That is the silly name. But do you know anything about wolves Mrs. Sakamoto?"
"What do you mean?"
"Wolves mate for life. And a Wolf Pack is stronger then most families. Our friendship is like that. And now that Suzuna is with him we will protect her with our lives. She's his mate. That's our pact. Our promise from long ago. So you can try to break them up but we can also guarantee that our little silly group will defend our pack until the end. Have a good day Mrs. Sakamoto" he concluded with a bow of his head as she drummed her fingers on the table and then picked up her cell phone.
"Tanaka" she said into the phone, "It's time to go to Plan B."
(To be continued…)
Authors Note: Okay here's the first of this week. A real long one for ya!!
Next Chapter: Another Surprise?/ Hawaii Trip