Chapter 21: Late
He rubbed his chin lightly as he admired the piece. It looked absolutely amazing, gorgeous and elegant in every way possible. It was every bit over the top, definitely to her liking. But there was still something missing from it. Sho couldn't quite put his finger on what the minor detail was precisely, but deep down he knew—this just wasn't the right piece.
The young man sitting across from him, admired his expressions very carefully, trying to gauge the customer's pleasure to the product presented. The consultant couldn't have been more than 25 years in age. He had a well-defined jaw line and long black hair that was pulled into a lovely bun. Strong wide eyes and subtle dimples added a nice allure to his features. His chin was kissed with a small scruff of neatly trimmed hair. When the singer looked up from the piece and met his grey eyes, he could feel the impending rejection. "Is this not your satisfaction, Fuwa-san?"
Folding his arms across his chest, he leaned back into the comfortable seat and pouted. "Absolutely not. I thought you were supposed to be the premiere jeweler in the country?" Sho answered snidely. "Is this really the best that you have?"
Shoko looked to her charge as her jaw dropped.
Standing up, the young man bowed to his client. "You have my sincerest apologies, sir. I will take this and bring you our most prized pieces." Grabbing the item in question, he quickly exited the private room.
After he was gone, the manager faced her impudent charge with eyes that burned in disappointment. "Did your parents not teach you any manners whatsoever?"
Sho scoffed. "Relax Shoko. You have to be an ass if you wanna get shit done."
She chuckled in disbelief. "Look, Sho, I don't really know why you're going out of your way to do this. You should know better than anyone that she might not even accept such a gift from you." When he glared at her, offended, she smiled innocently. "All I'm trying to say is that you might just be setting yourself up for one very pricey rejection."
"Hmph," the singer scoffed again. He stood up and began pacing the length of the spacey, carpeted room. "There is no way she would reject me. First of all, I know her. I know her better than anyone else, especially more than that platform wearing sonofabitch. This is every bit the Kyoko I know. Second of all, she won't be able to reject me in such a public situation without making herself out to be the villain."
Sho distinctly remembered reading a few of the entertainment tabloids this morning. Most of them were making her out to be unromantic and rude for puking all over his shoes when all he was doing was being kind and thoughtful in his affections for her. That had made his morning a delight.
Rolling her eyes, Shoko leaned back in her chair and shook her head. Does he have any goddamned sense at all when it comes to her? Your last charade backfired in your face, just what the hell will you do if this one does as well? I honestly think I'm too scared to see how far you'll take this, you idiot…
"I apologize for keeping you waiting," Gou said as he re-entered the room. After closing the door behind him, he walked over to the polished wooden table and placed a large box down. Unlocking the box, he opened the lid, swung the box around and presented the items to the celebrity. "These are the finest pieces that we have in our store. This one in particular," he pointed to the center piece, "is our most valuable."
Sho lazily strutted over and eyed the pieces. Upon seeing the center one, he knew that it was perfect. It was exactly what he needed! "I'll take it." He muttered. Spinning on his heels, he walked out of the room nonchalantly.
Kyoko awoke the next day feeling amazingly well-rested. Reaching out beside her, her fingers fell upon empty space. Reluctantly she opened her eyes and noticed that Ren was nowhere to be seen. Sitting up, holding the thin sheet to her chest, she looked upon the digital clock on his nightstand and sighed. It was already six-thirty. If she was to make it to the studio on time to film the final scene of their movie, she would have to move rather quickly. But the question remained: where was Ren?
"Did he already leave?" She mumbled to herself as she crawled off the oversized bed, sheet wrapped tightly around her small form. Walking over to the door, she saw that it was slightly ajar. Opening it, she walked out and down to the living room. Looking around her surroundings with lightly scrunched brows, she finally found her treasure out on the balcony. His bare back was to her, but his left hand held his cell phone to his ear. Tempted to pop out and make sure everything was okay, Kyoko decided it was best if she let him be. She didn't want to be one of those that invaded other people's privacy, especially their boyfriends. Blushing at the realization that Tsuruga Ren was indeed her boyfriend, she turned around and headed back into the bedroom.
Meanwhile, Ren ran his fingers through his hair feeling wholly frustrated and the day hadn't even begun for him. "I absolutely do not approve of this… farce." He spat angrily. Thick shapely brows were furiously wrinkled, his jaw held taut as his teeth ground with seething rage. "I think this is a horrible idea."
"Have you forgotten our conversation from yesterday, Ren?" Lori snapped back irately. "I told you she needs to face the music if she is to succeed in this business. Given that he is the reason for her being in LoveMe to begin with, I think it's only fair that she learn to tolerate him if she is to graduate."
"No," Ren argued shaking his head. "I am inclined to disagree with that notion, sir. I know what we talked about yesterday and I appreciate the permission, but I would rather not place her in a position where I would be forced to do him harm. Besides, her whole reason for being in LoveMe was because she was incapable of accepting love in any shape or form. Obviously that is no longer an issue for her."
"Ren, I cannot back out of it now. It's done. She will attend and she will attend it with him." Lori could hear the deep inhalations of his best friend's son and his heart went out to the young man, it truly did. The vivid imagery of the passionate reaction that stems from the actor at the mere mention of Fuwa was very hard to forget.
"With all due respect sir, your idea of having her on stage with him last night didn't go very well, to say the least. If this is some sort of Plan B initiative then you must find a way to stop it."
Lori pondered the man's words for a few moments, weighing his options. It is true that if in fact he needed to back out of the plan, he could make it work, although it would cost him millions more. But then there was the inevitable drama and outpour of gossip that could result as well. No, there was really no way for him to back out without harming Kyoko's career, which was an absolutely nonnegotiable notion. "No, I can't do it, Ren." He answered firmly after his deep contemplation. "If I do this then her career might as well be over before it even has the chance to begin."
"This is bullshit," Ren cursed in English. He raked his hair back and started to pace the large balcony out of sheer aggravation. Closing his eyes all he could see in the back of his mind was Kyoko discovering the truth about him being Kuon and running off, straight into the arms of that piece of shit good for nothing douchebag. "I don't like the idea of them together in any way whatsoever, Boss. If that makes me sound like a jealous lunatic boyfriend, then so be it. I've seen the effect he has on her and I'm telling you that she does not have the emotional capacity to deal with him rationally."
"Kuon let me assure you that your concerns have been noted. But she is growing up. Sooner or later we have to face our demons. You should know that better than anyone else."
Ouch, Ren thought. You're really not holding back on this are you? "If he hurts her, I'll fucking kill him."
Lori knew that tone very well. It was not the voice of Tsuruga Ren, the composed actor, but the voice of the irresponsible demonic brat that had come to him six years prior. The cold seriousness of that statement was enough to make him shiver, but he wouldn't relent to a disobedient delinquent. "If he hurts her, you have my blessing to do to him what must be done, but I will not allow you to kill him, Kuon. Even if he deserves it. If you do that think of what will happen to Kyoko. You sure as hell won't be there to save her from the fallout of that mess. Look son, I understand your position. When I say I understand, I'm not just spewing bullshit to make you feel better. I have been in your shoes so I damn well get it. But don't be a fool, Kuon."
Ren sighed.
"What has you so damn frightened?" Lori asked returning to the native tongue. It was so unusual for Ren to break composure so easily, even where Kyoko and Fuwa Sho are concerned. The feeling in the elder's gut was churning his stomach with unease and he hated it. "Tell me, Ren."
He rested his free arm along the staccato balcony, and bowed his head. With closed eyes, he relived his wonderful night and the promise he had made to her. "I can't keep this from her. Sooner or later she'll find out who I am, that I have been lying to her for so long."
"I honestly don't think she will react the way you're thinking. Kyoko cares very deeply for you—"
"It's not that," Ren interrupted feeling immensely irritated. "There's a lot more history to us than you realize, things that I have kept to myself all this time. I don't have the time to tell you right now, but when I do, you'll understand why I'm so damn scared of losing her. The bigger problem right now is this event you signed her up for."
It was the president's turn to sigh heavily. "I'm afraid that she is signed and sealed as the representative for LME this year. You were originally supposed to attend, but with your work in Osaka, I had to find a replacement."
"Why would you choose a newcomer like her?"
"I thought that would be rather obvious. Her work in Dark Moon was extraordinary, as well as her work in Box-R. The publicity would be quite fantastic for her career."
"Not to mention the event itself, it's perfect for her," Ren mumbled.
"The idea for those two to attend together was actually given to us by another rather important individual of the business—"
"Which individual?" Ren asked rudely.
"I cannot tell you, I promised. But rumors of Kyoko's and Fuwa's past have started circulating as of late. They always brush it off as two childhood friends and then face each other as enemies. This presented itself as the perfect opportunity for them to set aside their differences amicably."
"Hmph," Ren scoffed. "That word does not exist in Fuwa's vocabulary. I believe it's too big of a word for him to process."
"Look, I want you to prepare for your flight tonight. Go to Osaka and finish up your work. If anything happens, and I do mean anything, I promise that I will call you myself, son."
"If anything happens, you will not stop me, Boss."
Ren twisted the knobs, shutting the shower off. He placed his palms against the white walls and bowed his head, letting the excess water roll down his neck and body. Closing his eyes, he thought of his night with Kyoko. Even now, in the aftermath of their lovemaking, he couldn't grasp it as reality. The way she fit into his arms. The subtle taste of her skin. The passionate kisses and sweet sounds she made. In reality, Ren never really expected that he could attain her. He was going to let her go and live a life without him. In the midst of his dark past, just what sort of joy could he truly provide her with?
Raking his hair back, the actor sighed and exited the shower. Grabbing the white towel from the rack, he wrapped it around his waist tightly. Wiping the fog from the mirror, he admired his reflection. The face of a Japanese Tsuruga Ren with long black hair. Looking down he opened the drawer and pulled the contact case out. As he looked back at himself, the reflection of blue eyes bore into him, almost taunting him to come clean to her. Plucking the circular masks from their case he put them into his eyes and made a solemn promise. As soon as he returned, he would tell her everything. He had to if he wanted any hopes of keeping her by his side.
Putting the empty case back into its drawer he slid it shut and then took a deep breath. His heart fluttered at the image of Kyoko lying in his bed, sleeping serenely. Smiling he stepped out of the bathroom but to an empty bed with ruffled sheets. His heart skipped. Stepping further into the room, he saw that the remnants of her clothing were also gone. "Kyoko?" he called out. Run turned towards the bedroom door, which was ajar and practically ran down the hallway. "Kyoko!"
Kyoko came out of the kitchen, dressed in her pink uniform, the top half tied loosely around her waist like the previous night. But instead of tank top, she had on an oversized white t-shirt, stolen from her beloved's closet. The teen walked over to her beau and eye him curiously. "What's wrong Ren?"
He sighed with relief and then mentally kicked himself for thinking the worse. "It's early and I was surprised to find an empty bed." A charming expression flooded his expression, which brought out the red of her cheeks. Closing the little gap between them, he slid his hands onto her waist and pulled her close. Leaning down he stole a chaste kiss.
As they parted, Kyoko's eyes drifted along Ren's wet body. All air caught in her throat as her eyes widened and her heart began to beat faster. Lightly she ran her fingertips down before retracting them altogether. Opening her mouth to talk, she found no words to speak. It wasn't until she felt his fingertips brushing her bangs aside that she was snapped out of her hypnosis. Quickly shutting her jaw, she looked into his beautiful eyes and forced an innocent smile. "I'm sorry. I need to leave, or I'm going to be late!"
Quick to put distance between them, Kyoko walked around him to the couch and fetched her bag. She had almost made it to the door, but was stopped when he grabbed her elbow, pulling her back.
"Late for what?" He asked curiously, wanting to spend the few extra moments with her. Today he would leave for Osaka and then they would part. Even if it was for a couple of days, it still felt like an eternity for him.
"I have my LoveMe assignment this morning." She dropped her head, suddenly feeling bashful. "I was supposed to do it last night, but I had to see you first." Kyoko thought that her heart was going to explode it was racing so fast. "With what happened at the studio, I felt uncomfortable with how we left things."
Ren cupped her cheek. Intuitively she lifted her eyes to his and opened her mouth to spew another apology, most likely for being irresponsible on skipping out on work, blah blah blah. But in all honesty, the actor was happy for her irrational thinking. Leaning down, he kissed her before she could begin.
Her eyes went wide as his lips fit perfectly over hers. It was so tender and affectionate that the actress found herself giving into it. She slipped her fingers around his neck and returned the lip lock with equal love. When their lips parted, their heads remained touching. His thumb lightly stroked her soft cheek and the heat of his breath warmed her skin. "Does that mean you're not angry?"
Ren chuckled. "How could I ever be angry with you?" Her golden eyes were bright and full of life that he could feel himself getting lost in the storm of the stare. "Kyoko…" he whispered, tilting her head up just a bit. "Are you sure you have to leave?"
Without waiting for a response he kissed her again. Her mouth opened wide almost pleading for his tongue. Almost without hesitation he plunged deep inside of her taking her lips hostage to his desire. Reaching up with his free hand, he slid the strap for her bag off her shoulder and then led her back against the door. Burying his hands into her hair, he continued to feast from her, making her moan against him. All thoughts were dominated by Kyoko Mogami. Time had stalled and the only thing left was the two of them.
Kyoko could feel her legs tremble as arduous chills tormented her body. Grabbing his wrist while her tongue wrapped around him, she half-fought for release of his grip. Her entire body was aflame with a passion that seemed more intense than the night before. Releasing her hand of his wrist, she grazed her fingers down his bare, hard chest. "Ren…" she whimpered, when his mouth left hers.
"If you really want me to stop, just say the word," he whispered huskily into her ear. The pressure of nails told him that stopping was far from her mind. Ren pulled back and stroked her swollen lips with his thumb. She tilted her head back in ecstasy. "Shall I stop?" He asked once again, slipping his finger into her mouth. Almost hungrily, she took the digit and sucked, gently at first, running her tongue along the length. Leaning in, he kissed her neck and felt the pressure of her suck getting stronger. "Tell me," he said upon her.
Kyoko shook her head pressing her teeth down on him. Her pleasure was short lived as he pulled back and ran his eyes down her body. Her heart thrummed. Her thighs felt drenched and her body ached for him.
Ren grabbed the edges of her shirt and quickly peeled if up and over her head. Roughly grabbing at the pink uniform he shoved them down her body and legs. Kyoko stepped out of them and quickly wrapped her arms around his neck. He lifted her up against the door and kissed her hard and rough. Her fingers were embedded deep in his long hair, tugging and massaging as her body impatiently shivered for more of him.
Kyoko was carried from the door over to the couch. He roughly threw her down and intolerantly stripped her of her black underwear. Ren moved down her body, grabbed her legs and tossed them over his shoulder. Without a moment's notice he leaned down and sunk his tongue in her moist depths, making her moan loudly into the apartment. His tongue thrusted in and out of her pussy as his fingers pressed into her fit thighs. Her hips shook and bucked as he continued to eat her.
"Ren…" Kyoko whimpered reaching the point of orgasm. But before she could feel the beautiful explosion of release, his lips left hers leaving her feeling wholly deprived. Opening her hooded eyes, she looked down at him in complaint but was instantly silenced by the sight of him.
Ren pulled the pesky white towel from around his body. Grabbing her waist he pulled her down, almost into his lap. Her hands reached out and covered his. Like an addict desperate for one more hit, he pulled her close and shoved the thick length of himself inside of her, making her cry out. The tight, wet walls of her pussy hugged his arousal like a slick glove. He thrusted as deeply as he could go and immediately felt her pulsing around him, fresh moisture coating them both. The wonderful feeling made his mind go blank as he basked in the pleasure of it all.
Kyoko couldn't believe the thrill her body was rocked with. Unlike last night, there was little pain. All she could feel was his flesh filling her lower body. Because she was already so close to orgasm when he plunged into her, all of her nerves went into overdrive and gave her one hell of an explosion. Grabbing his arm, she pulled him down atop her and kissed him ravenously. The sensations that he racked her with left her wanting to scream. It left her wanting to kiss him, to devour his delicious taste with her lips. She wanted it all and she wanted it now. As Ren slid his palms around her thighs, holding her tightly in place as he fucked her intensely, Kyoko subconsciously sunk her nails deeply into his back. The harder he fucked her, the harder she dragged those nails.
Closing his eyes, Ren drowned in the merriment that was sex with someone he loved. Never had sex been so intense, so intoxicating, and as very irresistible as it had been with Kyoko… And it was only their second time. Her sultry voice, her body, the simple truth that her heart all belonged to him made her much more attractive to him. Not to mention, the harder she scratched the more turned on he became. Baring his mouth wide, he began to suck her supple flesh just above her breast. The overwhelming euphoria of their sex gave him a high unlike any other. An intemperance that he rode rough and fast until both of their bodies exploded in a shuddering climax.
Afterwards, he collapsed on top of her, resting his head upon her shoulder. She was trembling, the sounds of her rampant heartbeat echoing in his ear. After a few moments had passed, Ren pushed himself up, towering above her. "Are you okay?"
Kyoko lightly fingered his hair from his eyes and nodded. Her complexion was damp and in full bloom flush. "I'm fine." She said quietly. "That was…amazing," she confessed. Lifting her head, she kissed him kindly. "But I'm positive that I'm running late now," she added with a playful pout.
Kanae sat in the chair beside the Kantoku, dolled up in her atrocious pink uniform of blasphemy. She admired him as he read the final scene with such intensity that he might burn a hole right through the middle. "Haven't you already read that a million times?" She asked curiously.
Kai turned his head ever so lightly and winked to her. Returning his eyes to the script, he smiled. "I have, but I like to memorize every aspect of the scene before I shoot them." He finished reading the last few lines, flipped the booklet shut and turned to his gorgeous girlfriend. "It helps me envision the scene more precisely while we shoot, so I can tell if anything is going wrong."
Kanae grinned and folded her arms across her chest. "I can see why you're so damn good at this."
They shared a chuckle and a quick kiss just as Ren and Yashiro walked up. Kai looked to them both and nodded. "Good morning Tsuruga-san, Yashiro-san." He then turned to LoveMe number two and smiled charmingly. "Would you mind getting me a cup of coffee, my dear?"
Kanae stuck her tongue out at him teasingly. Hopping off the chair, she nodded to the two men and walked off to give them some privacy.
"So, Tsuruga-san," Kai continued hopping out of his own chair. He rolled the script up and slid it into his back pocket. "Are you ready to end this thing?"
Ren looked over at the set and smiled before returning his gave to the director. "It has been quite the experience," he answered. This was not only his first official film with Kyoko, but it was the film that brought them together. To say that this was his most favored assignment would be an understatement. "It was wonderful working with you, Kantoku-san. To be perfectly frank, I think I'll miss it."
Yashiro glared at this charge with his mouth to the floor. First you pick me up blasting cheery music, not to mention that damned grin every time I brought up Kyoko-chan. Now this? Where the hell is the real Tsuruga Ren?
After a satisfied snicker, Kai patted Ren on the shoulder. "Well, to be honest myself I haven't had a celebrity duo with as much chemistry as you and Kyoko-chan in the entirety of my career thus far. I very much enjoyed the fluidity of your work. You two are the best, professionally speaking. I'm afraid that I'll miss it as well."
Ren nodded his thanks. "I might as well get prepared for the scene. Has Mogami-san arrived?" Ren had dropped her off at the Darumaya after their little morning escapade on his way here. She was quite adamant about it so he obliged unwillingly.
"Not quite yet. She's caught up in another assignment right now, but she'll be her in due time." Kai beamed. "If you'll excuse me, I have an assistant and a cup of coffee to hunt down."
Ren and Yashiro began walking towards the dressing room when the actor's phone chimed. Assuming it was his beloved he fetched it and tapped the message.
We need to discuss your return to America. I'm short on time here so please meet me before you leave for Osaka.
Ren's eyes widened as he scanned the words. Scrolling to the bottom, he recognized the phone number and felt his heart stop entirely. Dad…