I will keep this section short since this always inflate the chapter's wordcount. I know this is extremely long (not the longest though! see chapter 9), so please look for this signboard ~~XXX~~ and take a moment or hour breath before continuing. I was torn between splitting the chapter, but felt it flows better together.
As usual, thanks for the love!
Ps. Do you remember 'madam' from the end of chapter 17?
Opening his eyes, Atobe found himself standing in front of a door.
Strange.
Had he not entered this room moments ago?
There was a portrait of a bride hanging beside the door. Her veil was covered in intricately woven laces, not even a vague silhouette of her face was seen through the tenuous fabric.
He felt a tug of familiarity at the back of his mind.
Curious.
He searched the portrait for a shred of clue but came up with nothing short of frustration. He sent an indicting glare at her and that peculiar basket of potatoes dangling from the crook of her arm. Giving the portrait one last sceptical look, the young man turned back to the door and rapped his knuckles twice on the wood. He wasn't sure what made him do it.
An eerie creak echoed in the deserted corridor.
Undaunted, he stepped through the opened door. It was dark but not entirely pitch black. The only source of light came from the corridor behind, and where it should be a new moon, the milky disc hovering behind the long window that took over the entire wall opposite. Moonlight spilling into the room casted an empyrean glow on a vase of scabiosa which stood before the window.
He stared at the flowers for a few moments before turning away. His eyes travelled up the light path from the corridor and stopped at a messy heap near the end.
Spooky.
Charily, he glided around the forsaken wedding dress towards window. Someone was there, standing against the incandescent backdrop. Moonlight cascading down on the silhouette accentuated its distinct feminine curves. He prowled in the shadows with hunter's keen senses, watching… anticipating. He crept forward.
A soft gasp echoed in the air.
The girl wheeled around. Realising the mortifying state she's in, her cheeks coloured. She seized a handful of curtains and scavenged desperately for whatever's left of propriety. She was dressed in a silken chemise, after all.
Figure-hugging, Atobe had noticed.
"H-h-how bold of you! To taint a pure maiden's skin with those eyes!" she chastised, burlywood eyes glaring over the curtain. She blushed deeper, suddenly tongue-tied and unable to feel affronted from the overwhelming surge of abashment.
"At least…"
She whispered.
… not yet."
XXX
"Keeeeeiiiiigoooo-saaaan?"
No signs of acknowledgement or recognition of his own name.
"Keigo-san?"
He didn't as much as flinch, despite the likelihood of getting struck on the nose with the proximity of her waving hand.
Careful of the skirt, Akemi stepped back with an irate sigh, hands on hips. Ignoring the muffled giggles behind, she regarded the frozen form of Atobe as though figuring out an equation.
'Last one,' she resolved.
Standing on her toes, she leaned forward to look straight into his eyes. Shame, she remarked. Brown was too common.
"Hello, Anyone in there? Keigo-san? Look, I'm just about fed up with this tosh; so you better –"
Akemi was stunned when those deep blue eyes flashed, as all consciousness swept into the pools. Just as quickly as it happened, the violent storm died away. They stared into the depths of each other's eyes, blue into brown and vice versa.
Without warning, Atobe had bolted from the room.
"Did I," she stared blankly, "spook him?"
XXX
His back hit the oaken door with a dull thud.
Raising a hand, Atobe gave the knot a sharp tug and the tartan tie fluidly came loose around his neck. Air gratefully flowed through his windpipe. He took in a few breaths to calm his pounding heart. He couldn't shake off that vivid image and he wasn't looking at Akemi.
It had been a figment of his imagination, he argued fervently, assailing him when his guard was down.
How?
Why a chemise of all things?
A nasty shock shot through him.
Oshitari…
It had to be premeditated.
'Damn it! Damn that Yuushi and his flipping magazine! My mind's corrupted because of that –'
An uncharacteristic explicit curse slipped from his tongue. At his current state, he couldn't care less. He paced back and forth restlessly before the door, conjuring up ways to exact his vengeance. If he had it his way, not a single trace of Oshitari would remain on Earth.
'No. No. Deep breath. Calm down and think this through properly.'
He nearly jumped out of his skin when the doorknob rattled and turned.
Cradling the camera in one hand, Mrs Atobe gently closed the door and looked to her son who looked as if he was bracing himself for an impending war. Her lips curved in an incandescent grin.
He was doomed.
"Akemi-chan's changing," she informed. "It'll take some time for the girls to help her out of the wedding dress."
Mrs Atobe carried herself with the elegance and dignity of an influential and fearsome woman. She would admit it whole-heartedly, that deep down she's a doting mother as she redid his tie and patted down the creases. Holding him at arm's length, she scanned his spruce appearance for any overlooked spots. It was then she noticed something intriguing on his face.
"Keigo darling, are you blushing? Was it something I've said?"
Wrenching himself free from her clutches, Atobe turned sharply on his heels with an indignant huff. "Mother, I thought you have work to finish before father returns."
"What's wrong with a girly chat?" Mrs Atobe queried innocently, amusement playing in her eyes. "Are you jealous because I snatched her from your hands? Now, now. I won't get in your way anymore," she interjected before he could throw a fit. She winked. "I'm sure you're eager to start your private dance lesson."
"Mother!" an aghast Atobe balked at the unspoken insinuation.
Mrs Atobe giggled and gave his cheek an affectionate peck. She pulled away and patted her camera. "Come find me at my study once you've seen her off; I need your opinion on a few matters." A warm smile spread across her features. "Keep up the good work, Keigo. Akemi-chan's growing more beautiful each day."
"Harh?"
His mother merely shook her head.
Atobe scowled at her retreating figure, dumfounded. Akemi hadn't change a bit since they met.
"Ah, Keigo-san. You're still here."
The noirette appeared more at ease in her casual clothes. The makeup was removed, though her hair remained pinned up. Her arms were wrapped around a thick leather-bound book. She exchanged a few friendly words with the maids as they brought out the wedding dress from the room.
His inside recoiled at the sight.
Akemi came forward, smiling ruefully. "I'm sorry for leaving the salon without notifying you. I didn't get a chance though… your mother was very persistent."
Much like him.
"Ah! It's not like she forced me – though I was reluctant at first. I was assured that it's for writing materials. She needed references for an upcoming issue urgently. I couldn't say no in the end," she chuckled sheepishly, as they headed down the winding corridors to the ballroom together, their strides in harmony.
"Forthcoming issue? Hmmm… if I remember correctly, mother's company has been planning a huge wedding theme for the new year issue." On their own accord, his deep blue eyes shifted to his companion. He swiftly turned away.
"What is it?"
"Nothing," he lied. "Just… how many times have you been reading that book? I thought you're not into princesses?"
The book, Atobe pointed out, possessed a staggering collection of East Asian legends and fairy tales, including obscure ones neither of them came across. She had found it while browsing through the shelves when they were revising together in the manor's library last week. She became rather attached to it since.
Akemi was chagrined, but kept a tight-lipped. 'He doesn't need to know,' she wanted a happier ending befitting the White King… more than a close friendship with the heroine. Unfortunately, romance was out of her field. She had fruitlessly scoured other sources for inspirations before the book fell in her hands.
"Gods, goddesses and mythical creatures appear here far more than your princesses," she retaliated. "Their stories are far more intriguing. As for how many times… well… five?" Bidding to evade further questions, she digressed the topic to an easier subject. "You're looking incredibly flamboyant today, Keigo-san. Even if it's Ceilidh dance, aren't you overdressed? Party isn't tonight."
A normal human being would jump into denial but Atobe…
…he threw his head back and guffawed in that condescending manner of his.
Akemi supressed rolling her eyes.
One of Atobe Zaibatsu's chief suppliers – a mid-sized, international tech company specialising in assembly equipment – for their heavy machinery venture was organising a Christmas charity event. Its host, the country director hailed from Dundee, Scotland. It really explained the Ceilidh theme when a baffled Akemi was shown the invitation card.
The honourable guest, Mr Atobe, was on-call in London for an emergency meeting and wouldn't be back the day after, in time for Christmas with the family but not tomorrow's function.
His son was going in his stead.
And it was the very reason she was here this lovely evening…
… with the equally lovely supercilious braggart.
Atobe folded his arms. "Lesson or not, it would do a great culture a dishonour if I'm not donning a kilt." He gestured at the tartan article and ornamented sporran, both swinging with each step. It was the half-truth. Having never worn one, his true intention was to acclimatise. He was starting to like the liberating sensation of openness. It's a good start.
As though reading his thoughts, the noirette smirked pensively. "Really now? Tell me, oh gallant King, does it feel a bit ahhhh chilly? That is of course, we're assuming you've stuck with tradition?"
"I shan't dignify that with an answer," he retorted, sharply. "Your concern is petty, as it is redundant. I am confident with my body image ad infinitum. With that said, Akemi…" he swept an imperious hand through his dark hair, "… Prepare to be awed by my prowess!"
XXX
23rd December, Tuesday
12:13
She had to provoke him.
Ceilidh dancing itself demanded a lot of energy without the constant keeping pace with the adamantine zeal of Atobe who was hell-bent on proving he wasn't fazed at going commando. She hadn't quite fully recovered from last night's lesson despite the few hours of sleep.
'It's unfair!' she inwardly moaned. 'Why do they always make dancing look so easy?'
Feeling a yawn surfacing, Akemi paused in writing to pass a hand over her mouth. She squinted, unsightly lines of fatigue peppered her forehead.
A worried voice floated across the table.
Mind glued on the papers laid out in front of her, Akemi immersed herself in work, unaware of her surroundings or his presence. That was until she was about to turn the page, a hand planted itself firmly down on top.
Startled, her eyes snapped up.
"I think you should stop here," Yukimura ordered. "You're tired, and you've not eaten since breakfast. We can continue this another time."
"Just a few more paragraphs." Her voice had an edge to it, a cold reminder that her mood and sleep went hand in hand. She was scribbling on the paper again, moving her hand brisk with the sudden urgency. "I'm not about to back down from my words. Besides, it's long overdue. Give me five more minutes. If I don't finish by then, you're allowed to confiscate the draft. Please?" she entreated wearily, glancing at him. "I don't have time tonight. And I'm flying to Hokkaido tomorrow."
"Tonight?"
"Charity event."
Her evasive response mirrored her reservation for disclosure. She at least owed him a fragment of the truth though. After giving the revised draft a quick onceover, she swept the scattered papers into a pile for the captain. "Here. Two chapters in one go as promised. I've finished what I could; the rest is in your care."
"You're really fine with sending it straight to Aihara-san?"
"I wouldn't have suggested it in the first place if I'm not confident in you," she smiled wryly, bringing her mug of cappuccino in front of her. Hard pressed for time, a clean hardcopy wasn't ideal. The editor would make an exception. "If you're worried about the annotations, he's fine with them as long as they're legible."
"That's…"
The word 'convenient' died in his throat.
Whorls of blue ink depicting circles, arrows and lines highlighting important parts and associated comments covered much of the blank borders.
Leafing through the pages, he pondered over the lassitude spell besieging the noirette. He snuck a glimpse. Faint shadows beneath eyes, sluggish movements, and general unconcern of the bustles around the restaurant. All symptoms checked. Obviously she'd returned very late from Tokyo last night. It could be the wee hours of morning, he wasn't sure. She didn't mention anything beyond "It was fun" when queried.
The Hyotei captain picked her up last night.
What were they up to?
Yukimura frowned, wondering if it was worth giving the draft a shot. He scarcely made it past the second line before putting down the draft.
"Akemi-san, do you –"
Sleep truly was a fractious opponent.
The girl had finally succumbed to its intoxicating influence. She slumbered peacefully with her head nestled atop her folded arms.
XXX
5:07 pm
"Why didn't you wake me up?" a displeased Akemi asked, as they headed back into the warm indoors after seeing their group off.
Minutes ago, she had stirred from sleep, gawking at the time before dashing out the restaurant to hunt down the captain. Bows and arrows would make good weapons. Perhaps a glorious tank too. As it were, glaring daggers (metaphorically speaking) sufficed.
Yukimura grinned unabashedly, surety radiating. "I didn't have the heart to disrupt your sleep. Anyway, you needed one badly. You were dribbling onto your arm. It was very cute."
"Y-you dare have the audacity to laugh!" she blurted indignantly, blushing. "Now I'll have to live with the knowledge and guilt that I didn't assist you. What if Dr Honda reports it back to school?"
"I will defend you."
"That cheesy grin doesn't reassure me. Not even the slightest."
Changed and packed for the day, they set off for the head science communicator's office to inform him of their departure. Either Dr Honda wasn't aware or chose ignorance, Akemi was relieved nothing about the incident was mentioned.
"I suppose asking if you're feeling up for a mall jaunt with the guys is inane," Yukimura gave a wry chuckle, as they retraced their steps towards the museum's front doors.
"Yeaaaah, sorry. I do have that charity thing going on. Lots of preparation."
"Tomorrow?"
Akemi grimaced. "Put a rain check on that."
"Another engagement?"
"Heavens know," Akemi sighed irately, puzzling the captain. "I'm not sure myself. It's a surprise, so I was told."
"Hinting at one takes away the significance."
A look of agony crossed her features. "My friend's unfortunately on the bright side."
XXX
7:33 pm
"Can I –"
"Denied."
"Geez, I haven't even finished my –"
"I refuse."
"Kei –"
"No."
"Then how about –"
"No."
"Just a little –"
"Nein!"
The spot beside him sunk under the weight of the hands pressing the leather upholstery down. A warm presence leaned in, undeterred by his brusqueness, shrinking the gap between them and flooding his senses with the rich vanilla scent of shampoo.
"Pleeeeeaaaaase?" the feminine voice cooed.
Atobe glanced sideways. A lucid image of two soft brown eyes peering at him timorously flickered into existence. Reality shifted back as quickly as it went; Akemi was gazing up her lashes with a beguiling smile. He wasn't sure if it was the angle, a trick of light or his head playing with him… his throat tightened like there's a large lump lodged in there.
He turned away, folding his arms in a defiant manner. Behind the passenger window, the view swept pass in a blur as the Aston Martin rolled into Minato. Or that could be the rising temperature. His face did feel a little hot. "Don't get coy with me. It's not going to work. You're not wheedling a single thing out from me. A surprise is a surprise."
Her faux chaste girl façade shattered, revealing the true colours underneath. "Heeeeh? If it's such a big deal, why tell me in the first place, Keigo-san the genius?" she asked flatly; her eyes frosting over.
"Throwing in a bit of suspense makes it all the more thrilling." Atobe held the look unwaveringly, smirk tugging at his lips.
"Tsch! This is a waste of my time." Slipping back to her corner, Akemi pointedly kept her gaze on that fairy tale book on her lap.
The corner of his lips gave a subtle twitch.
Atobe soaked in the 'peace and quiet' of the passenger cabin. His gaze shifted to the window, but they weren't taking in the view. The air seemed to crackle and burn with ire, as Akemi's reflection sulked in silence. They might have their differences, often jumping at each other's throats over trivial matters, eventually they'd fall back into genial amity.
Well, depending on several factors… with varying degrees of ease.
It was a matter of do or don't interfere.
Slowly but surely, her temper's simmering down.
Atobe picked up his head, the unforeseen shift in the air alerting him to something iffy. He peered discreetly over the other side of passenger seat.
Her inert eyes were on the book, brows knitted together in a deep frown. Her lips pursed in a thin line. Every time she shifted in her seat, to cross and uncross her legs, the navy cocktail dress rustled softly. She was restless.
"Oi."
Akemi glanced up in surprise.
"What's eating you?"
"It's…" She faltered sheepishly at the warning look he gave. She ducked her head, hoping the dim lighting hid her flushed cheeks. "T-th-that... I-I-I-I'm feeling a-a-a little…" she inhaled a ragged breath, drawing circles on the car seat with an index finger, "… nervous."
Given her natural penchant for huggermuggery, she should be given some credit for making an effort to speak openly without reservation.
Some…
Akemi recoiled from the advancing hand, back pressed against the door and shielded her cheeks. In this confined space, she couldn't escape being flickered on the nose.
"A little?" Atobe glowered, ripping apart her affectation. "Look at you. Your face has gone all pale. You're a whole bundle of nerves."
Akemi sighed in relief as the space between them widened. She moved her back off the door, but didn't budge from the tight corner.
"It's the party isn't it?"
Akemi averted her eyes sullenly. 'Why am I not surprised? He can read me like an opened book.' She felt a strong grip on her shoulder. Tentatively, she picked up her head and found herself staring into his piercing deep blue eyes.
"I don't go back on my words," Atobe said. "I've vowed not to leave you alone for the whole night for a second unless nature called. I've said my part." He prodded her nose. "It's your choice to trust me."
XXX
7:46 pm
If it wasn't obvious that Christmas was nigh, a magnificent conifer tree was standing proudly in the middle of the hotel's lobby. An assortment of baubles and glittering ornaments adorned the tree, gifts in brightly coloured wrappers scattered around its base.
Their host had added a unique touch to the festive atmosphere.
Huddled together in a semi-circle, four bagpipers dressed smartly in their Highland dresses played their instruments, heedless of their pictures being taken. Atobe and Akemi paused in their steps to watch the band. The noirette was particularly taken by the soaring notes. She couldn't recall the name, but it evoked a kaleidoscope of fragmented memories of her past life.
"Careful. You look daft with your mouth hanging open like that," Atobe whispered into an ear, reeling her back to the present.
Akemi blinked away the remaining figments and bristled. "It doesn't hurt to put it in a nicer way."
"And miss the chance of seeing you flustered?" he teased. "Why are you getting all stoked? This kind of mediocrity isn't worth your breath marvelling over." His contemptuous gaze shifted to the bagpipe band. His jaw set in a taut line, as though the present enigma was thwarting the proud captain.
Turning sharply away, she folded her arms. "I may be Japanese by blood but every bit of my personality's shaped in Bonnie Scotland. I practically lived my whole life there before moving across the continent!" She placed a hand over her chest. "My heart trembles with the poignant sights and sounds of my birthplace. I'm so fired up for this Ceilidh!"
"Oh? I see. That's great."
An eyebrow was raised at the lack of snarky comment. Shrugging it aside, the girl continued admiring her surroundings as they resumed walking arm in arm, blissfully unaware of the turmoil taking place inside the head of the young man.
"Akemi?"
"Hmm?"
"Do you genuinely want to do this?"
"Why not?"
"Have you ever seen how Ceilidh dancing is truly done?"
"Of course. From the pub windows."
"Outside?"
"In the bitter cold of winter and sweltering heat of summer." She rolled her eyes. "Yes, where else?"
Incredible…
'This could only end well,' Atobe inwardly sighed.
He pulled her aside to a deserted corner, ignoring her protests. Her lips twitched with the slightest of movements. Without prior thinking, he pressed a finger firmly on them. A shadow of remorse entered his dark eyes as he looked at her in earnest, the noirette fell into a discombobulating silence.
"Akemi," Atobe withdrew his finger, "know that I appreciate your company despite your qualms. Thank you."
"W-why are you suddenly thanking me?"
"I intend to stick to my words," he asserted, back propped up like a solider. "I won't let you out of my sight."
A 'but' hung in the air.
His hands came around her shoulders in a firm grip. "Are you fine when I'm not nearby?" Her eyes widened so much, it seemed he could read right into her heart. Right now though, he couldn't see past the befuddlement. "Some of the time," he began cautiously, "we're not going to be each other's partner. We might be facing each other, or end up on the opposite sides of the dance floor."
There was a long pause of stunned silence, as Akemi digested everything.
Underneath his hands, the shoulders began to shake violently. Her hand rose, fingers curling inward forming a fist. She drew her arm back and swung hard.
Something intense exploded from his stomach. It was pain, he thanked. Or not.
"'Not going to be each other's partner?'" she echoed, chortling into a hand. "Whatever do you mean? Gee, Keigo-san and his silly jokes. My, aren't you despicable?"
"I-I-I'm serious!" Atobe wheezed, hugging his stomach in agony. "More importantly, did you have to punch me!?"
"Do you remember?" Akemi sang. "I was sceptical about it at first when you suggested a dance lesson. But after trying out the steps last night, I was so surprised! They're easy to remember! My feet were screaming in pain by the end though – like kyaaaa!" She threw up her arms, causing the suitably stumped heir to duck. "And more… kyaaaa! It still hurts a little when I walk. That's okay, it'll heal. Get it heel?" She giggled like a besotted girl. "I don't know what you're fussing about. Have more faith in your adorable protégé, Atobe-sensei. Okay?"
'The shock dealt a larger blow than feared.' Atobe watched her rabbiting on helplessly under the influence of her fizzing nerves. 'No, at this state, I'm not sure who received the biggest blow here.' The grip around his stomach tightened. 'As I though, I'm about to pop a vein here.'
"ENOUGH!"
Akemi promptly fell silent. Even as Atobe crumpled in a heap, not a peep from her.
XXX
He wasn't sure how it all happened, but the girl managed to get him to rest in a lounge seat and a glass of cold water to drink. His bleary gaze shifted to her crestfallen face. One glance and he knew that she was regretting using him as a receptacle for her frustration.
"Look at your pitiful state," Atobe smirked, heaving his back off the couch. "Weren't you proud of your adopted roots moments ago?"
"You're one to talk," she murmured after a brief silence.
He put the emptied glass away and turned to her. "Akemi, listen carefully. I have no doubt you'll be fine with my guidance. What you gained from last night were simple to learn. They're devised that way for easy routine switch between couples."
She averted her eyes.
"Ceilidh is a social gathering. Music and dance are the key elements that bring people closer. In fact, it is commonplace to swap partners during a dance. For this reason, I want to know if you wish to proceed as planned."
"Why did you withhold such an important information from me?"
"I thought you knew."
"I'll never agree to that dance lesson if I do. Remember the first time you taught me the waltz?"
Atobe cringed.
"I thought so," she gave a hollow chuckle. "When I ponder deeper, the people hopping out of the hotel with crushed feet won't be the only ones in pain. Me… and your image."
"Akemi," his voice rose dangerously.
"You're excited about the dance just as I, when I was blissfully ignorant. Maybe you can find yourself another suitable partner. I'm sure there are plenty of girls willing to –" She broke off when a pair of hands jerked her forwards on the shoulders.
"That will break our agreement," Atobe countered doggedly, glaring intensely into her eyes. And he'd sooner drag them out this dilapidated hotel than get a replacement.
An idea hit him.
"We can still dance," he mused aloud, breaking into a wide grin, to the noirette's perplexity. "They're bound to play a waltz or two. We can dance then." He swung to his feet, throwing his arms far and wide. "As soon as they call for couples to rearrange themselves, that's the signal for the partner-swap routine. We'll leave the dance floor. Maybe the party for good," he added as an afterthought. "We have to leave early anyway because of your outreach work. Though I did suggest staying overnight at my house…"
Watching the miffed captain grumble while straightening out his attire, Akemi's expression softened.
Atobe nearly fell back in shock when she reappeared in front of him and took over the task of adjusting his necktie. He didn't protest. His mind simply went blank.
"That should do the trick." Akemi stepped back. "What are you waiting for? Are you expecting me do that for you?"
He glanced down at his sporran.
How lovely was her timing for being blunt?
XXX
"It's a pity your father can't make it." Mr Cuthbert took Atobe's hand and shook it with earnest. "I feel obliged to thank him personally."
He nodded towards the small group of volunteers from the charity at the reception corner, where guests were dropping off their donations.
"I am not told of the amount; it's between himself and the trust. The decision was made at his full discretion and I respect his wish for confidentiality. However, I am informed their voluntary works are running more smoothly this year due to his advanced contribution. The run-up to Christmas is always hectic for the staff." He turned back to his guest with a grin. "And of course, you too, young Atobe Keigo. For a man of your age, it is an extraordinary act. A budding young philanthropist in a making. Admirable." He nodded, agreeing his own words.
"You humble me, Mr Cuthbert." Acutely aware of the person beside him, Atobe put on a debonair air. "We're doing what's best for the society within our power, especially in this grievous world…"
Akemi barely processed the business and politic jargons that came next in stream. Bored, her gaze travelled to the man before them.
Country director, host and patron of the humanitarian aid organisation which was benefitting from this fundraising event, Roland Cuthbert was a stocky man with a conspicuous beer belly sticking over his belt. He seemed unabashed by this feature, compared to others who crammed everything in. His rough Scottish accent permeated his voice thickly as he spoke, flummoxing the well-educated who could speak fluent English but weren't exposed to the accent much.
To the noirette's surprise, Atobe understood his enunciation perfectly. How intriguing. They barely conversed in English. Perhaps he'd spent some time in Scotland before?
As Akemi watched the proceedings, unease began to settle in her stomach. She glanced away. 'No, it can't be… that's impossible.'
"My boy, you haven't introduce your charming wee lass!"
Startled, Akemi discreetly moved closer to Atobe. Her cheek was pressed against his upper arm, as though itching to bury into the warm folds of his jacket. She could sense his curious gaze upon her.
"Don't be shy, miss! A name is fine for this old chap," Mr Cuthbert encouraged with a good-humoured chuckle, inadvertently creating the opposite effect.
"Pardon my friend. She's known to be very shy," Atobe calmly said, stealing another covert glance. Akemi was scowling at his lapel pin for that far-fetched comment. Fluidly slipping a mask on, he gestured at the aforementioned 'shy' girl. "Noda Akemi, daughter of an old acquaintance of my father's from their university days. Her father is an illustrious mechatronics professor from Keio University, and actively involved in innovative research and development projects."
"Noda?" His vivid green eyes brightened in recognition. "Mechatronics professor, you say? Lass, are you perchance the daughter of Noda Ken?"
Akemi nodded dubiously.
"I've met him once before, at a technology showcase in Germany. Impressive character, that man. Your father is a rare talent any company wants."
Her hand was squeezed.
"T-thank you." She forced herself. "Mr Cuthbert."
She squeezed back, stronger than his.
"Mr Cuthbert, we wish to mingle around before the party starts," Atobe announced, comprehending the unspoken message.
"Ah, yes. Sorry, got a bit carried away there," Mr Cuthbert chuckled self-consciously, remembering he was talking to an important client's son, heir and potentially his future client. "Before you go, here's a little gift as a small remembrance." He motioned for his secretary. "Go on, Miss Watanabe."
Akemi muttered her thanks as an elegant white carnation corsage was presented. Atobe was given a similar flower, fittingly fashioned into a boutonnière instead.
"Do enjoy the evening. We've lined up an exciting list of entertainments. Pantomime included of course! We can't celebrate Christmas without panto. There's refreshments available. The kitchen has prepared an excellent spread of hors-d'oeuvre for your enjoyment."
"We'll keep that in mind, Mr Cuthbert." Atobe swept the boutonnière onto his jacket's lapel with a deft swish of his hand and dipped his head. "Thank you."
XXX
The balcony was empty when they arrived. Behind the closed glass doors from whence they entered, faint chatters mingled with the low hum of traffic several floors below. Adults seemed ardent indulging in dreary chin-wagging than taking in the impressive view of Tokyo Tower lighting up the surrounding skyline of Minato.
As if an invisible string was pulling her, Akemi moved towards the glass balustrade. Tokyo Tower appeared very close from this distance. It's a misperception but...
She pondered.
Maybe…
Somehow…
Miraculously –
A hand caught her wrist.
"That's dangerous, idiot!" The chastising voice of Atobe snapped her out of the trance-like state. "What were you thinking?"
As the last remnants of fog shrouding her thoughts cleared, Akemi saw the precarious position she's in. Her hand was outstretched towards the distant Tokyo Tower, her body half-leaning over the narrow strip of banister. She risked a peek below and stared at the vertigo-inducing sight with morbid interest. One careless slip and she –
Akemi whipped around and hastily backed away from the balustrade, stopping when she'd at least put more than seven feet between herself and the metal precipice.
Pausing at her side, Atobe raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? Come to think of it, where's that corsage of yours?"
"Eh?" She looked down at her hands. Both were noticeably empty. "Umm… I-I had it with me seconds ago. I'm sure. I was carrying it around." Her face blanched in horror. "Oh no, don't tell me it fell –!" she broke off abruptly, blinking owlishly at the beautiful white carnation that had popped out of nowhere. Magic? No…
"Did I startle you?" Atobe grinned gleefully, waving the corsage like some sort of a prize.
… just a cheap sleight-of-hand trickery.
"Geez, are you a child?" Akemi shouted. "Tactless idiot!"
Flagrantly delighted at her reaction, his grin widened sinisterly. His arms shifted to guide one of his hands into a pocket. Naturally, he grasped air instead. Kilts weren't designed with them. That's what sporrans were for. He swiftly perched the hand on his hip instead and swept the other through his hair, as if nothing happened.
"Admit it, Akemi; you were awed."
"Please, it's just some cheap trick anyone can mimic."
At his annoying insistence, Akemi reluctantly raised her left hand and stood motionless as he secured the corsage onto her wrist. She examined the flower and looked up at the soft rustling. Atobe had taken off his jacket. She didn't protest when he draped it across her bare shoulders. It was chilly outside.
Taking a step back, Atobe studied the girl thoughtfully with a solemn expression. Something about their host frightened her. He had sensed the whiff of fear in the air before Mr Cuthbert asked about her. "You were incredibly uncomfortable back there."
Akemi averted her eyes. Her knuckles were turning pale from being clenched.
'Sooner or later he'll ask again.'
Conceding defeat, she took in a deep breath. "This happened a long time ago, years in fact. The memories are hazy. What I can remember vividly is the feeling of disappointment," she glanced up at the sky, "and irrepressible anger."
"Anger?"
"Back when I was seven, young and naïve, I befriended this kid. He actually came out of nowhere and declared we should be. We became close though, often hanging out after school and such." Her chest heaved with a spiritless sigh. "One day, I discovered that he was secretly spreading nasty rumours around school regarding me." She gave a humourless chuckle. "Maybe that's why I'm naturally averse to Niou."
"And… what happened next?" Atobe asked, although he partly knew the outcome.
"I refused to speak or look at him. He picked on me every single chance he could get." She smirked jeeringly. "I would kick him into the next century if I wanted to, but he knew the dojo I trained at and threatened to tell my sensei."
"Didn't you approach the teachers?"
"Useless," she scoffed. "They refused to believe their darling star student was a bully. It went on for two years until his family moved down south. Good riddance."
"So he was between nine and seven," Atobe contemplated. "A kid with no clear morale direction."
"And that pardons his awful deeds?" Akemi snarled, nostrils flaring with anger. "He once put a dead frog in my lunchbox, Keigo-san. A. Dead. Frog. I was so traumatised by it that…" She shivered despite the jacket. She wrapped her arms around herself. The shivering stopped, leaving her in a decrepit state. "If this was done at our age, it's called harassment. But when you're a kid it's fine? What is this hypocrisy? There's a term for it, playground bullying!" She pointedly turned her head away. "Try being psychologically tormented by a person you once trusted."
"I didn't word it that way. Don't jump into conclusion," Atobe gently countered, resting a comforting hand on her shoulder. He was beginning to understand this guarded side of her.
"… sorry," she muttered, hanging her head in shame.
"Look at me."
Akemi peered through her lashes. He was smiling at her. It was infectious. She could feel the tension allaying when she smiled back. The acrimonious sting was there though, deeply embedded in her heart. She briefly wondered if it would ever fall on its own.
"This kid," Atobe started, bringing them back to the matter at hand, "does he resemble Cuthbert-san?"
Akemi scratched her cheek sheepishly. "It was a long time ago. I don't remember how he looks like, clearly at least. No, I will sooner smash my head on the wall." She shuddered. "Call it a gut instinct. They share the same family name."
"Can you remember his first name?"
"Joel."
Atobe shook his head with a sigh. "Never heard of a Joel in Cuthbert-san's family. There are thousands – if not millions of Cuthbert around the world. The odds of them having blood relation is very thin. It's probably as you said, a gut instinct. Cuthbert-san is on stage most of the time. Is that at least reassuring?"
"Somewhat." But Akemi couldn't shake off the feeling that Mr Cuthbert's vivid green eyes looked…
"Will a hug make you feel better?"
Atobe's sudden proposition stunned the noirette out of her thoughts.
"Are you considering?" he sneered roguishly, rubbing his chin.
"As if!" she huffed, pointedly turning her back on him. She hesitated. "Say, Keigo-san… what kind of person is Cuthbert-san?"
"I'm not sure. Never met him in person until today. From what I've heard from father, he's a diligent person."
Akemi scuffed the ground. "Really?"
"… what he said about your father bothers you."
It was a statement rather than a question.
"He seems like a nice man, yes." Was she about to break a business code of conduct? Akemi ploughed on after meeting no opposition. "But the way he views my father is repulsive." She folded her arms in a defensive manner. "Papa will never give up on his job. And he likes teaching."
"Then there's nothing to worry about it."
"I suppose you're right." She couldn't supress the curiosity anymore, not after what was said. "Have your… father approached mine before?"
"I don't think so," Atobe replied. "Father is the type who pursues his goal no matter how long it takes once he's set on it. Our fathers known each other for quite a while now. Anyway, father won't go against a good friend's wish."
He was oozing so much confidence, the girl believed him.
"Makes me wonder why we've never met before," Akemi smiled wanly. "Sorry, I asked a weird question."
"There's nothing weird about it if you're seeking assurance," he refuted. His fleeting gentle gaze grew stern. "Akemi, that stubborn heart of yours is like a double-edge sword. The sharper side determines the victor in a battle. That doesn't mean you can't turn the tables. How you wield your sword depends wholly on you. Dwelling in this groundless impression, you might trip over yourself in vain. Savvy?" He flicked her cheek playfully.
"I suggest expanding your dictionary, Keigo-san," Akemi glared, touching the maimed spot. "Headstrong or gritty makes better alternatives for stubborn."
"Ho?" His eyebrows rose in dubiety. "I find the description very befitting though." He glanced at his watch. "Oops, show it's about to start. Let's go, before you freeze outside."
"Are you sure it isn't your cherished lower extremities that's freezing over?" she retorted airily, accepting the proffered arm.
"Charming," he dryly remarked over the giggles.
As they entered the warm banquet hall, Atobe chanced a peek at his partners. His eyes darkened pensively, as they traced the small curvature forming the smile on her lips and noted the intrigue glimmering in the brown pools as they surveyed the lively setting.
All these years…
… how many scars was she carrying?
How many…
… she's hiding?
~~XXX~~
24th December
6:02 pm
Kawasaki, Kanagawa
Excited squeals and chatters rang out from the plaza of La Cittadella where a mini winter festival was being held. A large, decorated conifer was erected in the middle of the fanfares, cheery Christmas songs streamed out of the speakers.
A certain redhead wasn't in tune with the atmosphere when Yukimura broke the news.
"EEEHHH!? Akemi-chan backed out of the retreat again?" Marui tugged his hair in frustration. "Oh for Pete's sake, it's Christmas Eve! Planning an excursion is hard enough without checking each other's availability, she has to go MIA on us." The gathered throng here were sparring two hours for a club outing before heading home for celebration with respective families. The redhead heaved an irate sigh. "What is her excuse this time?"
"In her defence, it was quite unexpected," Yukimura responded, seemingly unfazed by his public tantrum. "Even she was taken by surprise."
"Didn't senpai say she wasn't certain?" a surprisingly rational Kirihara asked.
Yukimura answered with a placating smile. "With that in mind, Marui, she's not the guilty party here."
"Geez, I thought we could do some Christmas fun stuff before the festive season is over. How long is she staying in Sapporo?"
"Six days," Sanada replied.
"In time for New Year's Eve," Yanagi supplied.
Marui yielded with a rancour scowl. "I wonder who this friend of hers is."
As the ensuing discussion slowly unfolded, the slate blue eyes glazed over.
Yukimura had yet to see any intimate connexion emerge from her interactions with the rest of the tennis club, at least one that's on par with the regulars if he disregarded the rift between Niou and her. She was growing more capable dealing with the Trickster.
Outside the club, there was Hinata Chitose.
Outside Rikkai, Atobe Keigo.
The encompassing circle reached its limit there. While others might deem it pitiful, the noirette was content with her close circle of friends.
Close…
"Tsch!" Marui crossed his arms with a huff. "I hope whoever stole our Akemi get indigestion."
XXX
"ACKCHOO!"
"Bless you." Akemi's gaze briefly left the notebook. "Carrying around a handkerchief can be convenient huh? Although I'm not too keen on passing the same germs onto my nose." She turned the page nonchalantly as the violent coughing fits erupted.
Thank goodness for handkerchiefs indeed.
"You're a chatterbox today," Atobe grinned lividly, shoving his handkerchief down his pocket in haste. "Excited for Christmas?" He paused. "Or the ski trip?"
Her wrist flickered sharply each time she moved into a new line, pouring her experiences and thoughts on today's outreach programme onto ink and paper. Her homeroom teacher had encouraged his students to keep a reflective diary over the holidays. Hers was beginning to take shape fine. Akemi quickly ended the log with a positive note, having been given a book from the museum as a memento, before giving the Hyotei captain undivided attention.
"Both of course," she eventually answered. "To be honest, I don't care so much for the skiing part. My parents enjoy it, though it's just an excuse for a trip to the mountains. A respite from the city life. I love a hot cuppa and a book while the sky dumps buckets of rain outside. Hillwalking across the countryside, fresh air, fresh grilled salmon in the over." She had a dreamy smile on. "Truly wonderful."
"One berry sundae and a flat white for table five!" The owner of the Irish pub appeared at their table. "Here you go, miss – sir."
"Sure you don't want a bite?" Akemi asked, picking up her spoon.
"I'm fine with coffee."
"Your loss."
Over the brim of his mug, Atobe watched her fawned over the sundae. An amused smirk crossed his features. Her face was glowing with happiness.
"So?" The girl glanced up from the half-demolished dessert, eyes sparkling. "Is this the surprise?"
Akemi recalled the shock of seeing the dignified figure hovering beside the museum's entrance doors. She was with Yukimura then, preparing to leave Tokyo together. Honestly, she felt a bit guilty for dropping out of the excursion. Curiosity prevailed though.
"As if," Atobe dismissed. A conniving look entered his eyes. "I shall think about making another appearance, unannounced just to see that expression again."
"Please don't. The last thing I need is a panic attack. I hadn't quite forgotten that time when you appeared in my bedroom with those blue roses and that dodgy get-up. It's very like you, twisting words around. Any world or universe built from your phantasm must be one heck of a place. I'm starting to doubt the credibility of your purported surprise, Keigo-san."
"Is that so?" Atobe arched his brows. "I need to remediate this situation then."
Oh dear, what had she done?
XXX
8:17 pm
The couple turned away from the view of Atobe Zaibatsu Headquarters, leaving a venture through the heavily guarded doors for another day. Akasaka was bustling with energy from the traffic, unfortunate night shift workers and party revellers. Finding a quiet park for an evening stroll was a stroke of good luck.
Atobe snuck a peevish glance at the ever stubborn girl. The canvas bag was obviously heavy, weighed down by the gifts from the Rikkai regulars. Akemi seemed unbothered, hugging it rather possessively. The Rikkai captain apparently gathered the gifts from his teammates in the event she couldn't make it to their excursion.
Him over them. Good enough.
A voice cackled gleefully in the shadow of his mind.
"What are you smirking about?"
"Nothing," he lied, straight-faced.
Akemi regarded the triumphant smirk bemusedly before turning to the path ahead. Her lips parted slightly with a noiseless sigh. Her searching eyes darted about uneasily, vigilance up on the double, ears straining for every creak, snap, and rustle punctuating the silence.
Time was getting short. There was Christmas Eve dinner to partake and a flight to catch.
On the way to the pick-up point, they made an impromptu stop at a florist, at Atobe's suggestion. Akemi was asked to wait outside before she could stop him from striding into the shop. When he reappeared moments later, he was grinning broadly as he presented a flower the mystified girl didn't recognise.
"Scabiosa," he said.
XXX
9:32 pm
"Thanks for taking me out, Keigo-san. It was fun!" Akemi beamed, rummaging inside her bag. "Before you go, here's a little something." She held out a small rectangular box, wrapped in silver gloss paper with a scattering of white frost prints. She had added the navy ribbon herself. "Merry Christmas!"
"I, too, have a something for you."
They exchanged gifts.
The breeze stirred. It was tranquil in her neighbourhood. They could hear the television drifting from the house next door, and her parents stressing over last minute preparation, unaware their daughter was back.
"Akemi."
"Yes?"
"Don't hurt yourself whilst you're out there," Atobe cautioned. "I want you to wear the watch as much as possible, especially when you're outside… alone."
"Yes, dearest King." Akemi did a mocked curtsey. "Oh! Here's a conundrum. Who's going to activate the alarm if I'm alone and happen to be unconscious?"
"Heaven forbids."
The sudden loss of his usual cheer sent a wave of guilt down on her. Akemi berated herself for the offhanded repartee. Rather than making light of his concern, she should have…
He glanced at the hand resting on his arm, as if to reassure him.
"Thank you, Keigo-san," Akemi smiled indulgently.
His casual smirk resurfaced. "Send my regards to your parents." He prodded her forehead experimentally. "Merry Christmas, bumbling idiot."
Akemi waved to the departing Aston Martin until it disappeared around the bend in the road. Shaking her head at the Hyotei captain, she lifted the scabiosa to her nose. Blissful thoughts flooded her mind.
Oh, hold on. Back up.
Where's the surprise?
Remembering she was given something, Akemi dropped her gaze. An incredulous look flashed in her eyes. "What is this?" Turning the flimsy thing at different angles, the golden embossed letters glistened in the light of the streetlamps. "An invitation card!?"
XXX
25th December
Sapporo, Hokkaido
"This is your last chance, Akemi."
"I've said I'm not interested in going into town! Stop making me repeat myself!" Mr Noda's daughter almost stamped her foot on the ground. "Go. You're letting mama wait."
"Geez, must you go huff-puff on papa? Are you on –"
The door shut with a loud bang.
Sighing irately, Akemi leaned against the door. She listened to the crunch of snow as her father's walking boots trudged down the path towards the carpark. It wasn't long before their cottage was filled with the faint crackling from the electric fireplace, soaking the tiny living room in its warmth.
Strange… she felt bitterly cold inside.
Akemi plopped down on her bed and stared at the thatched ceiling. The lodge and its cluster of cottages sat on the foot of the snow-capped mountains, beside a crystal clear river and in the middle of a lush woodland. But she didn't feel like going anywhere.
"It's Christmas morning," she said aloud.
Outside, a bird on the pine tree twitted in response. Pine trees and a glimpse of the mountain made up the view of her bedroom window. A vase of fresh wild flowers, courtesy of the lodge owner, sat on the bedside table.
Beside it, the scabiosa from Atobe.
While all her Christmas presents remained at home, this and…
Akemi groped inside the drawer for the invitation card. Snuggling against her pillow, she read the card with a listless expression.
Dear Mr and Mrs Noda,
You are cordially invited to join in welcoming an auspicious new year at
The Atobe Residence
31st January 20XX
7 PM
White Tie Gala
To Benefit
XXX
"White tie gala." Akemi closed her eyes longingly. "It must be nice to dress up in beautiful dresses." Though she wouldn't be found in overly revealing ones.
Not all parties were bad, as discovered after the charity event. Just flat parties hosted by boorish university students. Gosh, she hated living near the campus. It was a good thing her parents shared the same sentiments. Housing prices might be absurd in the heart of the city centre but it was worth every penny in exchange for peace and sanity.
She furrowed her brows, hating the green-eyed monster prowling inside.
"This is ridiculous. I'm getting worked up over a piece of card?" Akemi flopped onto her side. "It's all Keigo-san's fault. He kept me on tenterhooks the whole night with that 'surprise' hanging over my head. Why couldn't he hand it to papa and mama himself?" She buried her face into the pillow, muffling her voice. "Save me the grief, please."
She contemplated.
No.
It's not envy or vexation.
Something else was bothering her.
Shifting to a comfortable sitting position on the bed, Akemi swapped the card for the scabiosa. She twisted the flower on its stalk between her fingers. The sweet fragrance wafting from the petals tingled her senses. It was a good tingling.
Was this his Christmas present for her?
It was silly of her for giving the hand-crafted tie clip. She had spent hours on carving the crown insignia. It's like buying an expensive box of tangerines and not receiving the worth of its value because they weren't sweet. A waste, in short.
She shook her head furiously, livid at herself for allowing this bitterness smearing her thoughts.
Even a single flower had its significance.
Akemi swung off the bed and resolutely marched towards the kitchen for the discarded milk bottle in the glass recycling bin. After flushing out the residue under the cold water, she gave the glass bottle a thorough scrub with the dishwashing liquid and dried it on the kitchen towels.
Setting the bottle on the bedside table, she perched on the edge of the bed and admired the scabiosa. The weight around her heart was lifting. She glanced up, astonished at the sight of snow behind the window.
It was a light sprinkle.
She watched the powdery snow gliding down the air with a wistful smile. Her mind drifted. The memory had blurred over the passing years, she couldn't remember the boy's face or their conversation by the loch anymore. Only a snippet which she held very close to her heart.
Akemi placed a hand over the sapphire necklace. Her eyes glazed over musingly.
'I wonder… how is he? Where is he now? Weren't we around the same age? If I think about it… Keigo-san is like a grown-up version of that kid. Too pretentious for their own good…'
The doorbell buzzed.
Akemi hastily got up, acutely aware of her cheeks burning hot. Laughing sheepishly, she went into the bathroom for a quick wash on the face before trotting towards the front door. Ascertained there was no danger on the other side, she tore away from the peep hole and opened the door.
"Merry Christmas, miss!" an errand boy greeted the nonplussed noirette. He wore a radiant grin, unbothered by the freezing temperature outside. Light dusting of snow had settled on his outdoor jacket. "Here's a package for you."
After thanking the boy, Akemi sat on the sofa and brought the package onto her lap. A print label bearing the lodge's address and her name was stuck onto the front of the delivery box. She checked for a return address or invoice but found nothing helpful. She hesitated. Surely they had gone through stringent security checks before stuffing it in the back of their delivery van?
Brushing off the paranoia, she fetched a pair of scissors.
Inside the box was another package wrapped in red matte paper. She tested the weight, slightly astonished at how familiar it felt in her hands. Then there was an envelope, bearing the crest of the Atobe family. Restless with repressed excitement, she broke the seal and pulled out the content. A gasp of joy escaped her.
Dear Miss Noda Akemi,
You are cordially invited to join in welcoming an auspicious new year at
The Atobe Residence
Having read the card before, Akemi glossed over the details to inspect the small note attached on the bottom corner.
Be there or else.
K-san
Akemi rolled her eyes. Hardly intimidating if K-san was planning on manipulating her with an ambiguously worded threat. She had a strong inkling that he was asking for a partner again.
"Whatever,"she shrugged. "It'll be nice. Music and dance – and food." And even if being in a room full of strangers discomfited her, "Everything will be fine if I'm with Keigo-san." She stiffened, stunned at her self-assurance.
A small smile gradually eased onto her lips.
Akemi moved on to the package with renewed eagerness.
Her fingers flinched.
Disbelief reverberated inside her burlywood eyes that had grown wide like saucers. She carefully lifted the book off its wrapping paper and held it aloft, unheeding of the tiny crick in her neck as she tilted her head back. It was solid… too real underneath her touch for this to be an illusion… but it wasn't.
A genuine hardcopy!
She brought it down and inhaled deeply.
Musty scent of old books.
She ran an eager hand across the book's title.
Legends of the Far East: Myths, Folklores and Enchanting Tales.
At that moment she was hit with a sudden realisation. It all made sense now.
This book was the surprise.
Wearily, she levered off the sofa. "He kept me on my toes the whole night on purpose. That flower must have been intended for distraction… and it worked. Geez, that man is too shrewd for his own good. He must have found it amusing, stringing me along the whole night."
She let out a barking laugh before slamming a hand down on the coffee table, causing the furniture to judder on its legs.
"Wait until I get back," she resolved, rising to her full height. She scowled at the book, uncertainty on her features. "Is it really fine though?"
There was another note tucked between two pages.
KEEP IT
K-san
XXX
Atobe Residence, Tokyo
At the sound of a particular chime going off, Atobe fished out his phone from his trousers' pocket without hesitation.
Akemi 9:23
: - )
His expression mirrored the emoticon, eyes glinting with triumph. A second emotion swept through him. Relief.
"What are you smiling at?"
There was a distinctive lilt of steely pride and benign subsumed in the feminine voice, making the slight quaver insignificant.
"It's a nice start to Christmas Day," Atobe casually commented on the mild weather over the estate. Growing up in London, Christmases without the white flurries weren't new. Briefly he wondered if it would rattle Akemi if it weren't for the trip to the mountains in Sapporo. Snow must be bountiful up north.
"How long are you going to stand there?" the same voice asked. "It's very cold by the windows. Come here, Keigo."
Atobe obeyed without demur.
XXX
29th December
Lustleigh Conservatory was a majestic cast iron structure, reflecting the status of the Atobe family. Named after a quaint Devonian parish where the raw ore materials originated, the glasshouse's inhabitants were perpetually frozen in spring by a cleverly designed computer.
But Akemi's mind wasn't on the flowers today.
Their meticulously prepared assortment of snacks for their afternoon tea was indubitably forgotten in favour of their own conundrums.
To each their own huh?
Her tea sat forlorn in its saucer beside her hand, which laid motionless on the edge of the table for…
A number refused to crop up.
She clicked her tongue impatiently. Her narrowed eyes followed the circular pacing of Atobe. His restlessness was passing onto her like a noxious contagion.
Beat was faring better, though the Afghan Wolfhound seemed rather bemused at his master's agitation. Michael kept to himself as he exchanged her tea for a fresher one. He was the only soul aware of the young master's plight.
Heaving an exasperated sigh, the girl left the comfort of her seat and stalked towards the restive young man.
"Keigo-san, do you mind?" she demanded, stomping to a halt. "You're driving everyone nuts here! What is going on? You're acting like a man who's introducing his girlfriend to his parents for the first time. If I hadn't known better, I might misunderstand your motives when I was dragged out of my home without warning – ten minutes after arriving from the airport! I'm tired and I want to go home."
He continued pacing, drivelling away as if she didn't throw a strop in front of hip. His lack of composure was unsettling her.
Cautiously, she crept forward, a hand reaching out. "Ne, Keigo –"
"Of course!" Atobe suddenly interjected, wearing a look of epiphany. "It was Mediterranean last time. She must be lost in here."
Any worries for the Hyotei captain promptly flew out the window.
"Ha? She? What are you talking about?"
"We'll split up." At the snap of his fingers, Beat came bounding to his side. "I'll head south with Beat. Michael, you take the north."
The butler bowed respectfully. "Understood, Keigo-sama."
"H-hold on!" Akemi cried. Too late. Man and beast had disappeared down the path. She turned sharply to the butler. "Michael?"
The old butler reluctantly paused. As though sensing the burning question, he left a cryptic message, "Young Master will never wish to cross this person," before running off in the opposite direction.
Akemi plopped down on her chair with an angry sigh. Elbow propped on the table, she reclined her head against her palm. "Why aren't they telling me anything? Why do I get myself entangle in his drama? Geez!" She paused for a sip of tea. "Just who is this person Keigo-san wants me to meet? He was banging on about it incessantly inside the car - and poof! His gone." Another sip. "Stupid is as stupid does."
Beyond the dense perennial bushes which grew around the gazebo, faint echoes of Beat's bark reverberated in the air. She strained to listen Atobe's frantic voice. She couldn't make out what he was fussing about.
Something soft and feathery brushed against her ankle.
Akemi jumped in her seat; a squeal stuck in her throat. She snapped her head down. Eyes widened in bewilderment.
Here was a cat like no other. Powerfully built and majestic, its long pelt had the distinctive marking of a mackerel tabby that rippled as the feline emerged from its hiding place with uncanny regal trots. It paused to survey her, bottlebrush tail swishing gracefully behind.
Unreservedly, Akemi lowered a hand. It was common practice to shelve any suspicion felines held towards humankind. The tabby turned away with disinterest after a few sniffs.
'Where did this cat come in from?' Because to maintain the vegetation in optimum conditions, the conservatory was sealed off from external elements. 'Come to think of it... I don't recall seeing such a cat around the stables.'
On one occasion, Atobe had brought her around the stables and its adjacent field to see the horses (mainly his grey, Winchester). There, she was also introduced to the estate's feline army that thrived in the vicinity. All neutered and brought from shelters that couldn't house anymore strays, the moggies came in various colours and breeds. But Akemi was dead certain she'd have noticed a striking Norwegian Forest amongst the litter very easily.
The tabby tilted it head back and tested the air with its keen sense.
Watching the idle proceeding, her mind drifted back to the enigma.
'Who is she?'
A pair of tufted ears twitched.
Who was this person, the highly opinionated young master would keel over without a fight?
'Honoka-san is out.'
If not Mrs Atobe…
… A sweetheart?
Before she could gauge the absurdity of this rushed judgement, there came the tale-tell signs of people approaching the gazebo.
People because there were two discrete voices, incongruous with ladies her age.
That was to say it might be that Atobe fancied older women. No, no, no. That didn't sound right at all. Impossible, Akemi argued. Preposterous. Illogical. Decadent. Awkward. Awkward. Awkward. Stop it, Akemi.
"This seems to be the place, I can see the gazebo right ahead."
Akemi hastily clambered off the chair, startled at the sudden proximity of footsteps and a strange intermittent clattering on the path.
"Ah, here we are! Oh, it's embarrassing to think I've gotten ourselves lost in here!"
"Nonsense, Hotaru."
That bluntness in the second woman's tone piqued her curiosity.
"That old oak tree was moved. By the looks of it, most of the ornaments and furniture were rearranged too. Remember? It was previously Mediterranean the last time we came."
"I suppose you're right."
Two figures emerged from underneath a stone archway that stood in the direction of sunset. The clattering noise came from the rotating wheels of the wheelchair as a woman, the caretaker perhaps, moved into the opened space. She paused to glance around and eventually found the frozen figure of Akemi.
"Oh my," the caretaker spoke in the first woman's voice. "Madam, do you think she's?"
Akemi was mildly aware of being stared at, but her eyes were on the second woman in the wheelchair. She could sense from the way the woman held herself that she was not an ordinary person. Her suspicion deepened when the elderly woman's head turned around.
Royal blue…
How odd.
Akemi had always thought Atobe and his mother were very much alike. For one, they shared the same eye colour. But the noirette was starting to see how erroneous she was. Mrs Atobe's blue was bright and crystal-clear. Her son's was dark and spellbinding as the deep ocean. And within the depths resonated pride, gentility and acuity as though they could read right into her soul.
It all made sense now.
The blue-eyed elderly woman gave an affirmative nod. "Akemi?"
"Y-yes, madam!?" the girl blurted, snapping her back straight in attention. Catching herself, she turned scarlet. "U-umm… please excuse my rudeness."
She was getting increasingly flustered by the second.
How should she proceed?
If her speculation was right, this person… and to back everything up, she caught a familiar glint in her eyes. Puzzling though. The lady was… amused?
"Don't fret, my dear," the elderly woman assured. "Perhaps introducing myself shall alleviate this tension. This is Taguchi Hotaru, my housekeeper and friend for thirty years." She paused to allow woman and girl exchanged greetings. "And I am Saeko, Shiintaro's mother."
"Shiin – Atobe-san's mother?" Akemi echoed, gobsmacked nevertheless. "Then you are…"
"Keigo's grandmother."
Thanks for reading and see you next chapter!
