CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE
Higashiyama Event Center
Uedayama, Nagoya
Japan
November 5, 2006
By the time they arrived at the event center which Tomoko and her wife named Higashiyama Event Center but was known to the family and regulars simply as 'The Park', Dee was not surprised to find it was more than just a building with a large open space. His father had mentioned it was more than a building but seeing was much different than hearing about it. Embellishing due to pride could sometimes make something seem much more than it was. Pretty much like family pride and talk about their family made them seem much more important than Dee figured they really were. Yes, he had a grandfather who was CEO to a major corporation in Japan, but Ryo's grandfather in New York was CEO to several major corporations and while most of the family, especially the older ones still adhered to customary practices expected of a family of their wealth and status, it did not make the MacLeans the most important family in the U.S., not in power and certainly not in historical value. Franklin MacLean, unfortunately, did not have the President of the United States on speed dial. Dee figured talk about Fujioka importance was just family pride and not much else. So far, they had all seemed pretty normal, including his grandfather. There were no bodyguards lurking in the background everywhere they went. They did not ride in large chauffeured vehicles with a motorcade escort. Stuff like that belonged to the real most important people, such as the Emperor and the Imperial family in Japan, and the President in the U.S. Most of what Dee had heard about Fujioka importance was most likely just talk. As for the folklore potentially linking the family to some historical figures of the past, it was most likely one of his ancestors boasting about a shrine that no one was able to find an origin for, claiming it in his talking as his own, and it carried down the family from there. It was also very likely how the shrine had become maintained by his family.
It didn't mean that there wasn't some historical value to this new family of his in Japan. If whatever an ancestor did brag about had brought the shrine into the Fujioka family, it probably helped that if it was a male and gave birth to twins, it also connected him to the original Carriers. And while that did seem very likely true that they were descendants of the original man or men who gave birth, the Fujiokas were not the only family. In Kamakura they had met a man who was pregnant with twins, and his family also very likely had the same claim as the Fujiokas, but Dee was certain the man was not even remotely related to him. There were several branches of that original family, which had splintered off into other branches over time, and they all had the twin gene. All of them were not Fujiokas. And while all the men who had twins were revered, it was more a quiet respect of meeting such men and not a country putting them all on a platform to worship and praise.
Sure, his grandfather had some power because of his position and wealth, and even from what he heard, had connections to the Imperial family, but that did not make him part of the Imperial inner court. There were also many other CEOs of equally important or successful companies who also had the same privileges. Again, it did not make Ryoichi Fujioka the most important man in Japan. He only shared advanced social status and nothing more.
And while he had a great-grandfather and great-uncle who seemed to have actually given the way to the Carrier gene produced by the Carrier Project, their names were not known by everyone, not even in Japan. Japanese people might think there were Japanese on the project only because Japan had agreed to being involved, if only to protect their own secret of men able to conceive and give birth long before the conception of the Carrier Project. It was also the country's means of reaching out with other countries in an attempt to be less secular.
His father – and he was still getting used to thinking that - pulled the van up to a pagoda style building that served as the entrance. They got out of the van as a valet patiently waited for when he was able to take the vehicle to a parking lot somewhere on the other side of the event space. Behind them, Dafydd, who drove back with his family, pulled their family car behind them. It was dark already, the sun setting while they were at the zoo.
Kimi was waiting for them by the door, holding an electronic pad. She smiled when she saw the van pull up and walked over to them as Saburo and Sakura got Darin and Ryoko out. Dee turned as he saw his sister-in-law come up to them. Dee also noticed Dafydd and Momo letting their excited sons out of their van, attempting to keep them from rushing off somewhere only the boys knew where.
"Hello again, Kimi" Dee said with a smile.
"I am happy to see you again, Dee," she greeted. "I have good news and bad news for you." She looked over to include the rest of the family.
"Give us the good news first, kudasai," Sakura requested.
"Everyone living in Nagoya-shi is confirmed to be here tonight." Kimi looked at Saburo. "All but one of your brothers and sisters have confirmed, as well as many relatives from Ise and Toshijima. Ojisan Nori is taking the yacht out and will bring anyone who can join from Toshijima and making a stop in Ise to get everyone who is able to come. I have a bus chartered to pick up the passengers near the aquarium. Most of the family in the surrounding Nagoya area will be there tonight."
"That's wonderful," Sakura exclaimed happily. She smiled at Dee. "Nori is one of your father's older brothers. Everyone wants to meet you, Daisuke. That makes me so happy." She hugged Dee's arm as she smiled warmly at him.
"It does look like that," Dee replied. To Kimi, he asked, "So what's the bad news?"
She giggled and then replied, "You are going to have to meet and remember the names of approximately 150 great-aunts and great-uncles, aunts and uncles, first, second and even a few third cousins tonight. Have fun."
Dee paled at the number and looked at his father in fear. This was even more people than who attended the party Ryo's grandmother threw the week before. The same party where he met a man who looked too much like him not to be a twin. The man who was his twin brother, and that meeting was the reason they were all at this place now, so that Dee could meet the family he never knew he had. Dee looked up at the pagoda. His family, his very Japanese family, who were based in Nagoya. He was born in Nagoya to this very large, but close family that he was removed from when the father he was with as an infant was killed and Dee was left on his own in an alley by a dumpster with no inkling of who he really was and where he was from.
All his life, he never really considered what his true nationality was, raised as American in New York City, and taking on Mother's Irish heritage as his own. It helped that Mother's family had taken him in as one of their own, especially after Mother was able to adopt him. At least he allowed some Japanese culture in, especially after his five years living in Yokohama enough to know it helped shape the man he was today, but even then, he never considered himself Japanese. He had too much respect for the culture to do so, knowing he was always going to be gaijin.
Turns out he's not as gaijin as he thought. Well, as long as he didn't listen to his grandfather, who if he did listen, then he was very gaijin. Except for his grandfather, the rest of his very Japanese family did not consider him as such. They knew he was American, not just in thought, but in citizenship. He preferred to keep Dee Lane Laytner-MacLean as his name. He also knew that it was too many years since the deadline for him to take back his Japanese citizenship that he was born with and would never have the chance again. Even if the idea did pop in his mind here and there over the last week, it was far too late to be a Japanese citizen, even if he was half-Japanese. It was a good thing he felt he wanted to remain American, a native New Yorker, because the choice was taken from him on his 22nd birthday. Which back then, he had no idea when exactly that was.
Despite it all, this family still considered him one of their own and because of that, not gaijin. No, the Fujiokas had too much family pride to every consider him that. Except his grandfather, whose family pride ran in a different direction and for that, would always consider him as such.
The week before, his world had shifted drastically by meeting a twin brother he never knew he had. His world had continued to shift and change during the week he got to know his twin more and learn about a family he never knew he had. That day he felt the ground moving from beneath him as he met a man he had once believed he never wanted to meet, and then started to feel things for his biological father that he never had imagined he would. Everything he had believed about his birth parents had been ripped from him, replaced with the truth, about two fathers who had loved him very much, and he still had one of those fathers, who never forgot him, never stopped loving him, and was so very glad and thankful to have Dee back in his life, no matter which name or nationality Dee choose to go by.
And now he felt as if whatever was left of his life before coming to Japan come crashing down on him as he learned that he was about to meet 150 relatives who among the older ones also did not forget him and still loved him, along with younger members who were told stories of his four short months with this family. They were all excited and anxious to meet him, obviously dropping whatever plans they might have had for a Sunday evening to converge upon this place to welcome him back to the family.
Dee's mind felt as if it was going to explode. It was all very good, thankfully, but it didn't lessen the impact of shock he felt once he realized what meeting Dafydd and agreeing to meet with his biological father meant. It meant what was facing him that evening.
Saburo hugged Dee and with his other arm, patted his jacket pocket. "At least you have your notes that Momo gave you in Tokyo."
Ryo started to laugh as he took at picture of Dee and Saburo. "Wait until Mother sees the pictures from tonight!" he exclaimed.
"Daisuke, are you okay?" Saburo asked in concern as Dee paled more and started to shake a little.
"Yeah. Just give me a moment." He shook his head, allowing his father to continue holding him in a comforting and supporting way. "Sheesh. The very few times I actually thought about my birth family, I imagined two parents, maybe a sibling or two and that's it. I know better now about how families worked from when I was younger, especially knowing Mother's family, and then Ryo's family. Yet all this week, even with this," Dee pulled out the memo pad, "I didn't imagine that many people. This is all just a list of names." He shrugged. "It could be a telephone book for all intents and purposes, but tonight most of these names are going to become faces. People I should know, send holiday cards and gifts to. Real people who are actually related to me. Blood relatives."
Sakura was rubbing his back. "I know. It's overwhelming. Sometimes at family gatherings I still get overwhelmed at the number. And this is a close-knit family regardless of the number. You're going to have to face them eventually."
"I know, and I do want to. I'm not about to go running off, so don't worry about it. You're right, I just got overwhelmed and came damn near close to hyperventilating at the thought."
"Keep in mind that this is basically only the local family," Dafydd reminded him. "Everyone who lives in or around Nagoya. At least everyone won't be arriving all at once. I hope."
Dee chuckled. "I hope so too." He looked at Ryo. "This is last Saturday night all over again. Except it's my family this time. Something that before the party last Saturday I didn't know I had."
Ryo let out a nervous laugh. "Also, it's about twice the number of relatives than who were at the party last week. And as you said, this time, they are all yours." Ryo gave Dee a smile.
"At least you won't be meeting me or Dafydd for the first time again," Momo said with an encouraging smile.
Dee laughed and squeezed the bridge of his nose. He took a deep breath and centered his mind. He had been doing a lot of that during the day. He was by no means a Zen type person, but he did learn a few quick techniques to quickly still turbulent emotions enough to remain focused and calm, when he felt so inclined in using them. It had helped him over the years, especially on the job. It had saved his, Ryo's and even other's lives, including Bikky, many times. Now he found he needed to use them before meeting the majority of his blood family for the first time.
"Crisis over for now," he assured his father. "I'm good. You might as well get me in position to greet all these people coming tonight."
"Perhaps you would like to call your mother and speak to her for a few minutes?" Saburo asked.
Dee had to love the man even more, for already understanding that much about him, and not only seeing, but respecting the special bond he had with the woman who to Dee was his mother in all ways except in giving birth to him. That particular honor went to the man who was now holding him and seeing what might be best for his son.
Dee shook his head. "No. Thank you for suggesting it, but besides the fact that she should still be sleeping, which I know she would not have a problem with if I did call her, but if I did, it will be much longer than a few minutes." He smiled at his father. "We'd never get on with greeting this family of ours. So, it's much better that I hold off, and talk to her about my great evening meeting everyone after." He hugged Saburo. "Besides, you are helping. A lot. Thank you."
Saburo smiled warmly, his eyes filling with tears again. "I am pleased to hear that."
Dee took another deep calming breath. "So, with that out of the way, bring on the masses. I mean, the family." He gave a cocky grin, which made everyone around him laugh.
"Then follow me," Kumi said with a smile.
"If there comes a time tonight when you need to go and catch your breath, then do so. We'll understand. Find your husband or one of your children and find somewhere quiet for a few minutes or call your mother. She should be up by then," Saburo said as they entered the ground floor of the pagoda. "There are plenty of spots around here to get a moment's quiet during festivities."
Kimi explained to the newcomers that they were in the reception area. Guests checked in and then were escorted to the location where their party was being held. Because their dinner was the only party that night, none of their reception people were working, and Kimi planned to handle the incoming guests. Kimi also told them that on the levels above them were smaller party spaces.
"We opened the tea house and the pavilion next to it by the pond," Kimi stated. "I'm hoping that you know where to go, so I can stay here and direct everyone else," she said to Saburo.
"Yes, enough of us know where it is," Saburo replied. "Thank you for taking care of things here. We'll see you soon?"
She held up the tablet. "Just as soon as the last person arrives, I'll be there."
As Saburo led the group out of the pavilion on the other side, they entered what indeed looked like a park with several buildings. Traditional looking buildings were spread out around a pond in the center of the space. The pond was much larger than the one at his grandparents' home, and also had a bridge going across the middle. In the pond with some lily pads many koi swam about. It was a perfect location for a photo op.
Dee grasped Ryo's hand as they walked around the pond. "What's up?" Ryo asked.
"All these red bridges, it makes me think about our wedding," Dee replied. "Which reminds me, we didn't show my family any photos from it, and I know we both made sure we have some on our phones."
"Yeah, we do," Ryo admitted. "Dafydd and Momo saw them. Remember?"
"Oh yeah. I think the tori gate will be a hit too," Dee said. "Especially with this family."
Ryo started to laugh. "Figures. You have a Catholic nun for a mother and an uncle who is a priest in New York, and an uncle and brother who are Shinto priests, and cousins who are Shinto priestesses in Japan. That's a lot of clergy in your family."
"Don't forget the High Priestesses in Ireland," Dee added, also laughing.
"Who is a High Priestess?" Yoshio asked, who was walking next to them, "and why are you holding back wedding photos?"
"The Lanes, my mother's family in Ireland, are Wiccan and there are a couple of certified High Priestesses in that family," Dee replied. He took out his phone and quickly scrolled through the gallery. "Wedding photo," he said, holding out his phone.
Yoshio looked at it and started to smile. "Saburo, Okāsan, look at this!" He handed his phone to Saburo.
"Is this from your wedding ceremony?" Saburo asked, showing his mother.
"Our wedding," Dee replied with a nod.
"That's a tori," Yoshio stated, pointing at the photo.
"Yes, that is," Dee said with a smile. "We had a tori by the altar. There are other photos from the ceremony, including the procession."
"I see Japanese charms on the canopy," Saburo stated. "And cherry blossoms. There is a lot of Japanese in your wedding." He smiled at Dee.
"You weren't married in a church?" Sakura asked, seeming surprised.
"We thought about it, but even if same sex marriages are legal in America, the Catholic church still frowns down on it. We could have had a priest perform the ceremony, but the diocese would look down on him and do what they can to make him step down. Father Pat does a lot of good work for not only his church, but the community the church is in. He understands the mixed heritages of his congregation, and their needs. After speaking with my mother on our concerns, she suggested a handfasting and gave us the name of a high priestess who once had worked at the orphanage. Once we started planning the handfasting, since it wasn't directed for Wiccans, we decided to add ourselves in it. Ryo's parents had a bridge and a tori at their wedding, and it meant a lot to him to have the same." Dee shrugged. "Since I was partial to Japanese culture, and was no stranger to shrines, I agreed and we added a few Shinto elements to the wedding, because I knew Ryo was partial to it." He grinned at Ryo.
Ryo laughed. "What he means is that I've also claimed to have beliefs but not to adhere to one religion. Which is true for the most part."
"But for the most part, he's Shinto," Dee added.
"I lean more toward it at times," Ryo admitted, "but not exclusively."
"We can accept that," Sakura said, smiling kindly at Ryo. "We do not judge. I would love to see more of your wedding photos, of both the ceremony and reception, but even if you had access, we do not have time right now. Here we are, and there is Tomoko."
"It does make me happy to see some Japanese in Daisuke's wedding ceremony," Saburo said joyfully.
"Obāsan, Dee and I agreed to exchange wedding videos. We're hoping that maybe we can watch them together before they go back to Japan. You are invited, as well as Papa and Chichi, if you like," Dafydd said.
"I would like very much," his grandmother exclaimed with a smile. "Tell me when if you can do it, even if in Tokyo. I will be there."
"So will I and Yoshio," Saburo said, also smiling.
Tomoko came over to them and hugged first Dee, and then her fathers, grandmother and everyone else.
"This is some place you have here," Dee commented looking around. "This is the tea house, I suppose."
"Yes, it is," Tomoko replied. "A bit more windows than a traditional tea house, but for events, guests prefer a nice view of the outside. I have the food and drinks set up in the tea house, along with tables to sit, and the pavilion has a bar and the karaoke machine. It's a good place to dance." She looked at her father. "I thought since it's a nice night that we can have mingling and dancing outdoors. We even have some seating there too. And of course, people can walk around the pond."
"I see you also have all the lights on," Saburo stated, looking around in satisfaction.
Colorful paper lanterns hung from wires along the edge of the pond, making the space seem more festive. LED lights were strung around the bases of some trees, and others the lights strung through the branches. There were also black iron lamp posts that looked like flames flickering within the lamps. Lights reflected on the water in the pond.
Dee thought that if they had such a place like this in New York when they were looking for wedding venues, it would have been at the top of his list. Even above Bridgewaters, because this was absolutely beautiful. He almost envied all the people who had their weddings here.
Saburo hugged Tomoko and kissed her head. "This girl has a knack for pulling things together last minute. They were already doing well when they just had a small office and contracted other facilities, but when they moved operations here, her and Kimi became the best event coordinators in Nagoya. I'll bet she can even give the ones in Tokyo a run too."
Tomoko blushed at her father's compliments. "It's just something I enjoy doing," she said humbly.
"And you do it very well," Yoshio said proudly. "What do we have for food?"
"You know, I'm looking at this and can't help comparing to Sharon," Ryo said. "And I don't think even Sharon could pull off something like this in the few hours Tomoko and Kimi had. I'm impressed. Can we convince you to do some events in New York?"
Tomoko laughed and smiled at Ryo. "I'm afraid I can't bring the Park with me, but if there's something that important, we'll be glad to help out. Who is Sharon?"
"She was our wedding coordinator," Dee replied. "She had about 3 weeks to pull together our wedding, and we did end up with much more than we expected for the time we had. That makes me afraid to ask what you could do in three weeks," he said to his sister.
"We do have a website and you can see pictures of different events and we do put how long we had to make it happen," Tomoko said. "As for tonight, it wasn't a big deal." She shrugged. "I managed to call a favor from a friend, and we have food and a wait staff here tonight. It's buffet, but we have local favorites, and some other foods. We also have takoyaki, ikayaki and okonomiyaki stations with someone making the foods for the next two hours."
"Yum!" Bikky exclaimed.
"You better have one person making them just for Bikky," Ryo quipped with a laugh.
"There will be plenty, don't worry. Bikky, did you get to try tebasaki yet?" Tomoko asked.
"Yes. In Nagoya it's more oishii than what we can get in New York. I can't wait for more," Bikky replied.
"Good. That makes me happy," Tomoko said.
Ayaka came out of the tea house and rushed immediately to Dee, to hug him. "We're going to have so much fun tonight," she exclaimed and then said hello to the rest of the family. When she got to Carol, she said, "We do karaoke together, yes?"
Carol looked excited and terrified at the same time. "I'm not really that good."
"You don't give yourself enough credit, Carol," Ryo said.
"Where do you want Daisuke and his family to be?" Sakura asked.
"Right here is good. They can greet family as they arrive. Kimi will call me when the last of them check in, and then they can all go in and get some food," Tomoko replied. "I take it that you made sure they ate at the shrine's tea house to hold them over until we can let them get dinner?"
Dee and Ryo started to laugh as Sakura smiled and nodded her head. "I made sure they were all prepared for this."
Which explained all the platters of food that was ordered at the tea house, despite her knowing that they had a good lunch before going to Saburo's house. His grandmother had a smooth way about her. Dee smiled at her. "And here I thought you were showing off the food served at the tea house. I should have known when you insisted on the mochi and matcha before we left. Even after the mochi and matcha we had at your house." He let out a chuckle. Yes, he really did love this woman who was his grandmother.
Sakura reached up to touch his cheek, tears glittering in her eyes. "I was just making sure you and your lovely family got through this without grumbling bellies. I am glad that Darin and Ryoko got fussy before we left the zoo, so they should be good for a while, yes?"
"Yes, they'll be good until later," Dee commented. "They are ready to meet the family now."
"That's good."
"Momo and I will hold the chibis for you," Dafydd offered. "That will leave you free for any hugs and kisses some family might inflict upon you. Ryo, Bikky and Carol will not be safe. Papa, Chichi and Obāsan will also be getting many hugs of congratulations, so it is best we stay close so they can meet the little ones."
"What about you?" Ryo asked. "I mean, Dee is the twin that you kept insisting was alive."
"Yes, I will be getting a lot of attention, but not as much as the rest of you," Dafydd replied.
"If Dafydd does seem to have trouble holding onto one of the babies with well-wishing relatives, I will gladly take over baby holding duty," Tomoko offered.
"Wouldn't you need to be inside getting everyone settled?" Dafydd asked.
"I can manage if needed." She started to smile. "Or Ayaka can take one."
Ayaka nodded her head. "I should be able to while filming," she exclaimed with a huge smile in broken English as she held up a camera. "This should be recorded, nee?" Then in Japanese, she asked Dee, "How was meeting Obaasan and Ojiisan?".
"I'll answer part of that question for him," Sakura replied with a knowing smirk, "just in case Daisuke decides to be too polite for the truth. Your grandfather was his usual self, and of course had things to say about his grandson now being American. Which the poor dear cannot help. He was left alone in New York City with no ID after Alun was killed." She touched Dee's arm with a smile. "At least he found his way back to his native country for college. And you speak Japanese very well. I think that did impress my husband. He did welcome Daisuke back to the family."
"That's a start," Ayaka stated. To Dee, she said, "That means you're in with Ojiisan."
"So, when he starts making comments about my being American and a half-breed, that's his way of saying he loves me?" Dee asked sarcastically.
Sakura let out a loud put-upon sigh. "Unfortunately, that is a yes."
"What about you two?" Dee asked Ayaka and Tomoko. "You're both full Japanese. You have to be safe."
Ayaka started to laugh. "Ojiisan thinks that being an idol is a waste of time and an embarrassment to Japan."
"I was supposed to work for one of the family companies or become a lawyer, and go into politics," Tomoko answered.
"And yet I found NGY52 and TKY52 CDs in his study, and he did give Tomoko and Kimi the money to build this place on land that the family corporation owns," Sakura replied. "He's a strange man like that."
"Ojiisan also paid for our apartment in Tokyo," Tomoko said. "Mostly so Ayaka could be in TKY52."
"There is that, too," Saburo agreed. "Otōsan made it clear that I wasn't to worry about them having a nice place to live."
Dee and Ryo started to laugh. "I'm willing to bet he doesn't know you found his CDs," Ryo stated.
"If I did, he would deny buying them, I'm sure. Just knowing that there is a new one every time NGY releases a single with Ayaka on it is good effort," Sakura said with a wink and a smile.
Tomoko's phone chimed and she looked at it. "Uncles Takahiro and Shigeru are here, along with Yasu, Fumio, Yuuki and Chouko."
"Of course, Takahiro would be here early. Shigeru is Takahiro's husband," Sakura explained. "You already met Yasu and Yuuki. Fumio is Yasu's husband and Chouko is their second youngest."
"And Uncle Kennosuke is here with Hanako, Azumi, Katashi, and their children. So is Naoki and his family," Tomoko said. "No surprise that he is also early."
"Naoki is your brother, right?" Dee asked.
"Our brother, Dee," Tomoko stated, as Ayaka and Dafydd nodded their heads.
"Our brother," Dee affirmed.
"It looks like Naoki couldn't wait to meet his brother," Saburo said. "He was stuck in auditions. His first. He wants to be a voice actor."
"Dafydd told me," Dee said and looked at Bikky. "Bikky watches anime and finds that exciting."
Bikky nodded his head. "That's really cool. I hope he gets it."
"To be honest, he would be lucky to get a role on the first try," Saburo said, "but Naoki knows that. He has to start somewhere. We do know that he will succeed eventually. For now, he works in the Osu Akaya store."
"We wish him well," Sakura stated.
"Here comes the first of the masses," Dafydd commented, amused. He took Darin from Dee and smiled. "I'm glad I get to just stand by holding a cute baby boy for relatives to ogle at."
Tomoko went to stand next to Ayaka as she spoke into her phone. She smiled as she watched the family welcome Dee back into the family.
Takehiro approached with his family. His husband, Shigeru, was all smiles as they approached. Dee decided that his grandfather's brother and his family seemed to be happier about his return than his grandfather. He certainly felt welcomed by Takahiro, Yasu and Yuuki, and judging the smile on his great-uncle by marriage, Shigeru felt the same.
Dee took a step closer to his father and grandmother, making sure Ryo and Bikky moved with him. He looked over at Carol and smiled at her, not wanting her to feel left out, but since she was basically a friend of the family, welcoming and getting to know her would be secondary.
She smiled encouragingly back at Dee as Ayaka motioned for Carol to stand with her and Tomoko. Dee realized that Carol was going to be fine during this.
"That definitely has to be Daisuke!" Shigeru exclaimed as he came over. He was dressed in a blue and pink polo shirt, dress slacks and sports jacket, while Takahiro wore a dark purple dress shirt, black slacks and jacket. "Dafydd, you do have a twin!" He stopped before Dee. Dee started to bow but Shigeru stopped him and pulled him in for a hug. "This is too amazing a situation to go formal. I am Shigeru, Takahiro's husband, and if you will have me, your uncle."
"I am honored, Uncle Shigeru," Dee replied.
"Good! So am I. Honored to meet you, and so happy that you survived and finally found your way back to us. Welcome back. I am pleased to hear that you grew up with a loving mother and have a good life, and a wonderful family of your own." He hugged Dee again and turned to Ryo and Bikky. "You are Ryo? And Bikky?"
As Sugeru greeted Ryo and Bikky, Takahiro, Yasu and Yuuki came closer. "Hello again, Daisuke," Yasu replied, now out of her priestess clothes and wearing a beautiful kimono of dark blue and colorful flowers. Her hair was pinned up and adorned with glittering jeweled accessories. She leaned over to kiss Dee's cheek. "Please meet my husband, Fumio. Fumio, this is Daisuke."
"Since Dafydd is standing over there with that cute little baby boy that looks like he could be Dafydd or Daisuke's son, it is obvious that this is Daisuke," Fumio remarked amused. He was dressed in a green man's kimono including the jacket.
Ryo was showing off Darin and Ryoko to Takahiro's husband. Dee smiled as he watched the scene for a moment before looking at Fumio. "Yes, you are right. And that cute little baby boy is my son Darin. I am honored to meet you."
"And I, you." Fumio looked around. "I was informed that the baby boy has a twin sister."
Dee laughed. "Yes, he does. To be honest, we thought I was just having her, so he was a surprise. Ryoko is right there with Momo."
"And that is Ryo and Bikky?"
"Yes, that is." Dee smiled. "That is my family. Along with Carol." He pointed over to where Carol stood with Ayaka and Tomoko. They were now joined by a man dressed in a black dress shirt and trousers, with a red tie and red waiter's apron who had Ayaka's camera. Apparently, he was recruited to get the event on film, freeing up Ayaka to join Tomoko in introducing Carol to the family.
"Ah, yes I was also informed about Carol. It is good that you extended your family as you did. That makes you and your husband very honorable. That makes me happy." With a big smile, he held out his hand. "Welcome back to the family, Daisuke. I hope we can get to know each other more."
"That would be good," Dee said.
Yasu grabbed onto Dee's arm and laughed. "Yes, please, because that means we'll get to know each other more. I was thinking this afternoon. I would really love to get to know that wonderful woman who became your mother and kept you safe. I know she's a nun, so would she have any trouble meeting me?"
"Hardly," Dee replied with a laugh. "While she raised me as Catholic, she made sure I was exposed to other religions. She comments occasionally because I don't attend church regularly, but that's only because she is a nun, and it's her duty. But she doesn't tell me I'm going to hell. I might be Catholic, but I'm a firm believer in praying where I am. I don't have to be in a church, and she understands that works for me." He started to grin. "Honestly, I think she'll get a kick finding out that I have Shinto clergy in my family. She's a bit of a maverick in her family, anyway. Her family in Ireland are Wiccan, and there are high priestesses in her family." He shrugged. "I have priestesses in Wicca and Shinto as cousins now."
"Really? Now I really want to meet her. Fumio, we must plan a trip to New York sometime soon," Yasu stated.
"Agreed. If Daisuke and his family doesn't mind," Fumio said.
"You are always welcome to visit us in New York," Dee said with a smile. "And I know you coming to visit my mother would thrill her so much." He looked around and his smile grew. "Anyone from this family is welcome to join us in New York. We would love it."
"Even your grandfather?" Sakura asked with a sly grin.
Dee chuckled and nodded. "If he finds it in himself to come visit me and my family, then yes, he is also welcome."
Sakura hugged her grandson and laughed with joy. "I am so happy to have you back," she exclaimed, her eyes filling with tears. "Welcome home, my darling Daisuke." She added, "Yasu, I might join you when you visit Daisuke in New York. I don't think I can wait until he comes to Japan again once he leaves."
"You are always welcome to join us, Obasan," Yasu said to her aunt. She looked at Dee and smiled, "This is also your cousin, our second daughter and Yuuki's older sister, Chouko."
"Hello Chouko. I am happy to meet you," Dee said to the young woman, who looked a couple of years older than Yuuki.
"Welcome home, Daisuke," Chouko replied with a bow. "It's very exciting that Dafydd finally found his twin brother. I am happy that everyone was wrong about you being killed with your father."
"I look forward to getting to know you," Dee replied with a smile.
"Me too," Chouko stated enthusiastically with a wide grin.
"Now let's go and say hello to the rest of Daisuke's family and free him up for everyone waiting," Yasu said.
Tomoko chuckled as she came over to stand behind Dee. "I'm afraid that more relatives have arrived. But don't rush," she assured Dee. "They understand. You've spent practically your whole life away from us. It's going to take more than a quick hello. Oh, I forgot to mention that I sent out an FAQ based on what I learned during my time at our fathers' house. It has the answers to the basic questions that would be asked, to save yourself and Ryo from saying the same things all night."
"That does sound convenient," Dee replied with a laugh. "Thank you for thinking of that. So, next I suppose." He smiled at her and turned to Kennosuke.
"This is my family, but first I think someone else is the most excited to meet you. This is your brother, Naoki," Kennosuke said.
Dee smiled at the young man who had a big smile and was almost bouncing with excitement. Naoki was dressed in dark jeans and a button up mustard yellow shirt and black jacket.
"It really is you, Daisuke!" Naoki exclaimed coming up to Dee and pulling him into a hug. "It's so great to meet Daisuke's twin. I didn't think this would be possible, but here we are. Welcome home, big brother!"
Dee hugged Naoki back with a laugh. "Thank you. It's great to meet you too. I'll admit this is something else. I never considered having so many brothers and sisters, but I think I really love it. How did the audition go?" Dee asked.
"They told you?" Naoki said, surprised and blushing a little.
"Of course, they did." Dee gave his younger brother a bright smile. "I think it's great."
"I think I did a good job, but I won't know until after the call back."
"You got a call back?" Saburo asked, coming over to hug his son. He managed to also pull Dee into the hug.
"It's more than I was expecting, so I'm not complaining, Papa."
"That's very good. Let me introduce you to Daisuke's family while he meets his aunt and cousins. There will be plenty of opportunity to get to know your brother, I promise."
"Before we move on, I want to introduce my husband, Shinkichi, and our twins," Naoki said, indicating the man who moved closer to the group. He had a double stroller with him.
"Hajimemashite," Shinkichi intoned with a slight bow. "I am Shinkichi."
"Hajimemashite," Dee replied also with a bow. "It is a pleasure to meet my younger brother's husband. And family." Dee smiled as he looked down at the little ones in the stroller.
"These are our twins, Kazuki and Rina," Shinkichi said, also smiling as he looked down.
"They are 1 year old," Naoki added.
"And you obviously Carried them," Dee said to his younger brother.
"How did you guess?" Naoki remarked with a laugh.
"Seems to run in the family, as I learned," Dee commented. "And it looks like Tomoko is about to run you all over to meet the rest of my family and keep this line going."
"Looks like it. We'll talk to you inside," Naoki stated.
"I'll talk to you later, Naoki. You too, Shinkichi," Dee said with amusement, knowing that Saburo was helping in moving things along. He looked back to Kennosuke and noticed there was now a line behind him.
"The relatives from Ise arrived," Tomoko offered, "along with many others. I guess everyone is so happy to meet you, they aimed to get here right on time. Don't worry," she said, patting his back. "Papa, Chichi and I will get you through this as quickly as possible. Then you can talk more inside."
"You're the expert, so I'll follow your lead."
Tomoko hugged Dee. "I have to admit that I never held a party for something like this before, but I'll do my best because we all deserve it."
"I think you're doing a damn fine job, so keep going," Dee replied and kissed her head before turning to start meeting the waiting relatives.
Dee continued to meet relatives for the first time, feeling completely overwhelmed at all the Japanese people who welcomed him home to the family. Reactions upon meeting him ranged from exuberant hugs to very American firm handshakes. Formality seemed to be dropped as excited, happy and even a few disbelieving relatives got to meet the man who was believed to be killed as a child.
When Tsukiko, who was Naoki's twin, arrived with Tomiji, they were moved to the front of the line. Tsukiko explained that Tomiji picked her up at Nagoya Station, so they could arrive together. Tomiji worked at the GPN headquarters as an assistant operations manager upon graduation from college. He also oversaw customer service and had to go in for a few hours to handle an issue that came up with the Sunday shift. Because he came from work, he was still in a black suit and white shirt with black and blue pinstriped tie. He was also being groomed to one day taking over operations as CEO from his grandfather and run the company. Tsukiko was in Osaka for work on Thursday and Friday, but also took advantage to visit family living there and stayed in Osaka for the weekend. She was supposed to return to Nagoya later that evening, but once she got the news, she decided to take an earlier train home. The family she was supposed to spend the afternoon with insisted that she go back to meet her brother.
Tomiji's twin, Koji, was doing an internship at Ise Jingu, a Shinto shrine complex in Ise. The other famous Carrier Shrine after Hinotsuke Jingu was located in the complex. Koji spend many weekends assisting at one of the many shrines on the complex. Koji also spent some of his weekends and school breaks helping out at the family shrine in Nagoya at times, but that weekend he had decided to stay in Ise and was not among the family who took the boat into Nagoya for the party, claiming he had exams to study for.
The last to arrive was Ryoichi, while everyone was inside the tea house, enjoying dinner while getting to know Dee and his family better. Sakura noticed her husband and with what had to be the first frown of the day for her, went over to him.
When Dee, Ryo, Bikky and Carol entered the inside, the first thing they saw were huge banners on the wall behind the food, one in English and another in Japanese. In Japanese, it said, "Welcome Home, Daisuke", and in English, "Welcome Home, Dee". They found out that Ayaka made the signs during the time they were with Sakura. They showed that she had more talent than being able to sing and dance by the lettering and cute manga-style drawings of Dee, Ryo, Bikky, Carol and the twins, along with flowers.
There was a table of honor set up for Dee, Ryo and their kids, along with Dee's fathers. Being Dee's twin brother also earned Dafydd a place at the table with Momo and their two sons. The rest of Saburo's and Yoshio's children sat at tables with their families close to the table of honor.
For the first half hour, everyone ate, but whenever they went to the food, someone would start talking to them. Toasts were given, and then while there was still food available, it was time for mingling. Dee had a crowd around him with well-wishing siblings and other relatives. Ryo also had people coming up to him. Bikky and Carol attempted to gravitate to the under 18 crowd, along with Ayaka, but Dee's relatives were also interested in knowing Bikky, and also Carol and would come over to ask them questions.
After dinner, and as the family started to mingle and going up to Dee, Ryo managed to call his grandmother on a video call and showed her what was going on that evening, assuring her that Dee was very much being accepted back into his family.
Akira was thrilled at what she saw on her phone. Ryo also assured her that there was video of their reception line as they greeted Dee's relatives as they arrived. There would also be more video and photos of the impromptu dinner party.
"That is a very nice place for this party," Akira observed. "I'm amazed that it was available last minute."
Ryo laughed. "It helps that one of Dee's sisters owns this building and the surrounding grounds, and that she had no events planned to tonight. Dee's sister, Tomoko, owns this beautiful event center and managed to pull together enough food to feed everyone who was able to make it tonight." He moved closer to the wall with the food and banners. "I'm amazed there is still food left. Not much, but still…." He laughed. "Ayaka made the banners," he added.
"How did Carol handle meeting Ayaka?" Akira asked.
"She's still alive," Ryo assured his grandmother with a smile. "They are getting along wonderfully. Ayaka keeps saying she wants to do a song with Carol at karaoke tonight. I'll make sure there is video."
"You better," Akira stated. "That looks like a wonderful party for Dei. That makes me so happy."
"I'll call you later tonight with more details on the day. I just wanted to check in with you and show you some of the excitement going on around here," Ryo said.
"I am happy you did. It's a shame Maria doesn't have a phone that can do video calls," Akira stated.
"Unfortunately, no. Not yet. But she might need one, listening to Dee's father," Ryo replied with a laugh. "We're going to have to look into that when we get back to New York, but it might be difficult. Cell phones in America aren't as advanced as here in Japan. Dee and I made a couple of videos especially for her with some of Dee's immediate family. We'll get it uploaded tonight so she could watch it."
"I know she's going to love whatever you send her. I'm also glad you're having a good time. Most important, that Dei is enjoying himself."
"He gets overwhelmed at times, but he keeps insisting it's a good thing. He really has a great family who are excited that he's back with them. Oh oh, more relatives are coming my way. I better go," Ryo said.
Akira laughed. "For once, it's you surrounded by Dei's family. That must be different. I look forward to your call later."
"I know you do. Good bye, Obāsan," Ryo said and laughed as he disconnected the call as Sakura came over to him. She had a man and a woman with her that Ryo had not met before.
"Ryo," Sakura said. "We have some latecomers. This is Masatake and his wife, Naoko. Masatake is the son of my husband's brother, Hiroyuki."
"Hajimemashite," Masatake greeted with a bow. "Forgive us. We missed the boat and had to drive to Nagoya."
Both Masatake and Naoko looked to be around Ryo's age, but after meeting so many of Fujioka's, Ryo could not be sure if they were actually his age, or just looked younger than their age. Afterall, Dee's father looked to be an older brother instead of father. It seemed to be an ongoing theme with many of the Fujioka family they had met that day.
"Hajimemashite," Ryo returned, also bowing. "I am very happy you are here to meet my husband, but that had to be a long drive," Ryo replied.
Masatake waved it off. "It's not so bad. It would have taken us less time if we were able to make it to the harbor in time, but we could not miss being here tonight."
"It was so exciting meeting Daisuke," Naoko exclaimed. "And your babies are so kawaii! It makes me want to have another."
"We'll talk about that," Masatake commented, the look on his face making Ryo bite back a laugh.
"Who were you talking to?" Sakura asked.
"My grandmother. I've been texting her during the day, but I thought she'd get a thrill seeing this party. She knows Dee is in good hands with his family now." Ryo smiled at Sakura.
"Oh, I hope you didn't hang up because of us. I wish you were still talking so I could say hello to her," Sakura said.
With a smile, Ryo said, "I'm sure you'll be speaking to her very soon."
"I do hope so."
Ryo joined Sakura, Masatake and Naoko as they started to roam around, stopping to talk to various well-wishing relatives.
Around 8:30, Ryo found himself across the room from Dee, both still surrounded by relatives. Ryo decided he needed to excuse himself and make his way over to Dee, because his husband was getting the look as if he was completely overwhelmed. He hid it well behind a smile and answering questions, but Ryo knew Dee well enough to know better. Dee was finally reaching his limit and was in desperate need of a time out. Before Ryo had a chance, he saw Saburo go over to Dee, and start extracting him from the others. He said something to the relatives, who all nodded and gave them space so Saburo could lead Dee out of the tea house. As other relatives came that way, Ryo watched as Saburo politely kept them away until he was out the open door with Dee.
Ryo decided right then and there that he absolutely loved his new father-in-law. The man had just met Dee earlier that day after not seeing him since Dee was four months old, and already Saburo was able to see what the other relatives did not, that Dee needed a break to catch his breath. It also told Ryo just how much Saburo loved and cared for his son. Even without Dee in his life for over thirty years, he never stopped loving his son, and now he was able to bestow that love on his very alive son.
With a smile, Ryo excused himself and started toward the door. He noticed Saburo and Dee sitting at a bench along the pond. Saburo had his arm around Dee's shoulders and it looked like the two men were talking.
Ryo slipped off to the side, to avoid any relatives who might wander outside and watched the scene, wanting to give father and son some alone time. Ryo realized that it had to be the first time since they showed up at the house that father and son had a chance to be alone. He decided to let them be and be a diversion for anyone who might want to go over to Dee.
The two sat for a while before they hugged and started to stand up. As they started to make their way back to the building, Ryo came out of the shadows.
Dee smiled when he saw Ryo and waved him over.
"So, there you two are," Ryo commented casually. He grinned a little when Dee gave him a look that said he knew otherwise.
They knew each other that well, that Dee knew he didn't just find them.
Dee put his arm around his father and stated, "Papa noticed that I was getting overwhelmed and decided get me away from the excited relatives for a while. Then once we got here, we realized that we never had time alone until then."
Noticing Dee finally referencing his father as "Papa", they must have had a very good talk. He made a note to make sure they had more father and son time alone, maybe even let Dafydd in at times.
"That's good. I didn't think of it until now," Ryo said.
"I was just so excited when Dafydd told me the news, I had to share it with the family. With this family, that meant gathering for dinner. And of course, Daisuke had to meet his siblings, and his grandparents. My mother would never have forgiven me if I kept the news to myself for longer than a few minutes."
"That's all very understandable," Ryo said. "Even I got caught up in meeting Dee's family, especially such a wonderful one like this. I get the feeling that you're all very close."
"There are some who are much closer than others, but yes, we stick together. There are some exceptions, but every family has that. Thank goodness there are only a few in our family," Saburo replied. He wiped his eyes. "Forgive me, but I am still emotional. I cannot believe that Daisuke is here."
Dee hugged his father tighter. "It's okay. Remember what I said. I know you have the business to run, but I also have a unit to run, too. I'll make time even if for a few days to come see you every two or three months, but you have to come to New York in between that time. And of course, Yoshio-san is very welcome to join you."
"Understood, Daisuke."
"Ryo, I hope you don't mind, but I promised my father that we'll stay at his house tomorrow night, and we can leave from there for Ise and Toshijima."
"That's fine with me," Ryo stated. "I already told you that I'm willing to change plans so you can get to know your family better."
"We'll check out tomorrow morning and go to his house. Then Papa will take us sightseeing until it's time to see Ayaka perform," Dee explained.
"I have a very high-tech computer in my den that you can use for your work meeting tomorrow night. Dafydd and I will make sure you get back in time to make the meeting," Saburo offered.
"That's very kind of you. Thank you," Ryo said.
"We better get back inside before they come out looking for us with torches," Dee joked, making Ryo and Saburo laugh.
Saburo moved away from Dee. "Before we do, this is the first time that I have time with you without a crowd. It is my wish that we can also sit down, just the two of us, and talk some. You are my son's husband, and I can tell he loves you very much. I want to know you better." He hugged Ryo. "Welcome to the Fujiokas, Ryo. As I told Daisuke, I'm sure you're going to find us very fascinating."
"I can see that this is a great family. It reminds me much of my own. The Japanese family, that is. My dad's family is kind of splintered."
"I want to hear more on both of your families," Saburo stated.
"Anything you want to know, I'll tell you," Ryo agreed. "The good and the bad."
"Good. Very good. And Bikky. I would like to learn more about his life before he came to you. To know that is to fully understand him, even if I see he is now in a very loving home with two good fathers."
"You can ask him whatever you want," Ryo said.
"That's what Daisuke said. You won't allow him to forget his parents."
"We're here now, but that's only because his parents cannot be," Ryo stated.
"You are good parents. For Bikky and your twins. I can see he doesn't feel pushed aside as the adopted kid. He knows he is, but you treat him as if he's as precious as the two you conceived." He looked toward the door and laughed. "And here come the torches."
Ryo looked behind him to find Tomoko, Dafydd, Ayaka and Bikky coming toward them.
"I'm going to be releasing the family to the pavilion for karaoke and dancing," Tomoko said with a knowing smile. "Or should I find a reason to keep everyone in the tea house for a while more?"
"We're good," Saburo said. "Yes, it is karaoke time." He looked at Dee and Ryo. "You do karaoke, do you?"
Dafydd and Bikky started to laugh as Dee and Ryo grinned.
"You have to give Ryo a push but when he gets up there, he's good," Dee replied. "Meanwhile I seem to keep finding songs I want to sing."
"Do you know any Japanese songs?" Saburo asked.
"Dee was a Japanese idol!" Tomoko exclaimed. "Dafydd told me."
Ayaka stood next to Dafydd, grinning widely. It was obvious Dafydd had already informed her that she wasn't the only famous Fujioka.
Dee looked horrified. "I wasn't an idol," he denied.
"Dee, you were in Daigaku Dudes. That makes you an idol. You had two very big singles," Ayaka exclaimed.
Saburo looked at Dee in amazement. "Daigaku Dudes? You were in Daigaku Dudes?" He started to laugh. "Oh, Ayaka, I'm sorry but you're not the only idol in our family."
"I wasn't even the first," Ayaka said with a laugh.
"Dafydd!" Dee exclaimed. "You told them?"
"I had to. You weren't going to keep that a secret forever. Not in this family. I was just waiting for the right moment to tell them, because I knew you weren't."
Dee covered his face and groaned.
"When Obāsan sends me and Momo the videos, we can all watch them together," Dafydd said. "From their early days before they became famous." Then he added for his father, "I mean Ryo's grandmother."
"Yes, I would love to watch them," Saburo stated.
"Me too!" Tomoko said.
"And me. Don't forget me!" came from Ayaka. "Now I need to find the videos on You Tube to watch their appearances for the single."
"Papa was caught going around the house, singing the Japanese version," Tomoko said with a giggle.
"With all of you playing it all the time, I had no choice," Saburo replied with a grin. "Good thing it's a very good song. Makes it easier when it gets stuck in your head."
Ryo started to chuckle, even after Dee's glare went from Dafydd to Ryo. "Dee doesn't like to talk about it," Ryo said. "But maybe we can get him to sing 'It's Gonna Be Me' during karaoke?" He smirked at Dee.
Ayaka clapped her hands while Tomoko let out a little happy sound. "Oh, that would be so wonderful!" Tomoko exclaimed with a huge smile. "Please Dee!"
"Yes, please Dee," Ayaka stated. "I would love to be able to watch you sing live. You were my favorite, you know."
"Mine too!" Tomoko added.
"That would be very enjoyable, Daisuke. I'm also looking forward to it." Saburo had a very big and proud smile as he looked at his son.
"You don't want to get Papa upset," Dafydd said with a grin. "He's already all weepy today. We shouldn't make it worse."
"I'm going to throttle you," Dee said to Dafydd with a growl.
Dafydd laughed for a reply. "I love you too, brother."
"Sorry, can't say it back to you right now. Because of you I'm going to have to get up and sing that song."
"Yes, you do," Ayaka said, laughing happily.
"Fine. Fine. I'll do it, but I'm not used to singing it alone, so Dafydd and Ryo, you're going to back me up. If either of you say no, you'll have to explain why I'm not singing it to the fangirls and fanboys."
Ryo looked at Dafydd. "I think I can pull off backing vocals. Dee's going to have to do the lead anyway."
"Yuki sings some of the lines," Dee pointed out. "And since he's not here with us, one of you will have to take it on."
Ayaka raised her hand. "Yuki? Is that Y? Because I know that song inside out. I can do Y's lines."
Ryo and Dafydd started to grin. "I can handle backing vocals," Dafydd said to Ryo. "And I think Ayaka helping with lead is great. Our two big celebrities singing together."
Saburo hugged Dee and reached out to pull Ayaka in too. "We have been honored with having two big idols. I really would love to see you two do that song. That would be another great gift given to me on this day."
Dee finally had to chuckle. "What will Carol say when she sees Ayaka doing a song with me?"
"She'll get her chance to sing with me," Ayaka said. "I promised her."
"She's sweating right now, even if she's really excited about it," Ryo said.
"I think I'll hold off and let some of the family have their turns first," Dee said. "Then we can do 'It's Gonna Be Me'." Dee gave Dafydd an evil grin. "And then you can start picking which TUBE song you want us to do. That will also be a gift for Papa."
"TUBE? You know TUBE songs?" Saburo asked, getting more excited.
"They are one his favorite groups," Ryo stated. "He made me a fan."
"And he also sings 'J-Boy', Papa," Dafydd offered. "Daigaku Dudes did it at the party in Tokyo."
"You are my son!" Saburo exclaimed happily. "Tomorrow, we must talk music."
"Yes, we can," Dee agreed. "Among other stuff."
"Good."
"I guess I can let the happy crowd head to the pavilion," Tomoko said. "There will still be food out, so everyone can wander between both areas."
"Maybe you and Papa can do 'J-Boy'," Dafydd stated.
"Yes! We are!" Saburo exclaimed happily.
As they headed for the doors, Dee pushed Dafydd and said low, "You are so dead."
"That would be you. At least until today," Dafydd remarked.
Dee smacked him, causing Dafydd to laugh and put his arm around Dee's waist. Dee grinned and joined Dafydd with laughter.
"They act as if they have been brothers all their lives," Tomoko said to Ryo, amused.
"We have been," Dee commented with a grin. "But we get to act like it only in the last week."
"True," Dafydd agreed.
"Still, when you least expect it, I am so getting back," Dee said.
Saburo and Ryo started to laugh, joined by Ayaka and Tomoko as they went inside.