"Chapter 7: Meaningful Sunday"
Everyone in the Nakahara mansion was sound asleep in the dawn of a comfortable Sunday. However the peace and quiet was disturbed by the sound of a motor running. Groggily Sunako opened her eyes and wondered what could be making that noise? The clanking metal appeared to come nearer and nearer then a familiar shouting voice was heard. Much to her shock, from the windows Aunt Mine barge in fashionably dressed as always. "Sunako dear this is an emergency you need to come with me to a wedding."
The light crept into her room exposing its contents. However no matter how horrid the things are inside Sunako's room she keeps everything neatly in place. The scary girl hid beneath her covers. "Auntie the light is too bright." The Aunt came closer to the bundled girl. "Sunako dear, today the Nakashima's eldest son is getting married. You need to fill in for your Mom and Dad. They could not come the last minute so I have to bother you."
Upon hearing the familiar surname Sunako peeped through the covers. "Does it mean the creature is going to be there to assist his mistress?" hearing the question Mine smirked. "Maybe he didn't come home last night right or you did not notice?"
The wheels in Sunako's head spun. Yes the radiant being did not come home since Friday saying he will be on a business trip. So the wedding was his business trip? Why did he not say he was attending a Nakashima family event?
"In case you are wondering the wedding is going to be held in Okinawa. It is in one of their private islands. If we leave now we will be there in one hour."
"Auntie, I have nothing to wear." Sunako pulled her back up from the bed.
Her aunt touched the tip of her chin and directed her head to look up. "When has dresses, make up and being stylish an issue for me?" That said she grabbed Sunako's arm and ushered her towards the chopper. Sunako could see the three boys looking at them from the garden. Her aunt pulling a megaphone out of nowhere shouted. "Sunako will be out the whole day, so you boys behave and feed yourselves."
"Where the heck is that woman taking Sunako?" Ranmaru questioned.
"It is probably urgent having to come via a chopper." Takenaga concluded
"Come to think of it Kyouhei has not been home since Friday from a business trip. I wonder if it's related?" Yuki muttered.
"Why do you think it is connected Yuki?" Takenaga questioned.
"Well Kyouhei is working for big shot family and Sunako is just as prestigious. Don't you think these types of people are the same crowd at a party? Or it's just me thinking that because as a commoner I never get invited to these parties?" the shortest boy replied
"Checking my social calendar, there is nothing really significant. But I will ask my Dad to know if something is going on." Ranmaru pulled out his phone. "Hey Dad sorry to call in so early but Auntie just took Sunako to a chopper and Kyouhei is gone since Friday, are you familiar with the Nakashima's? Are they having a big gig or is it the Nakahara's that is having an event?"
Ranmaru's mouth formed an "O" and smirked at his father's answer. "I see that it's very interesting. Thanks for the info, at least we know there is nothing to worry about."
As soon as he put the down the phone Yuki asked "Did your Dad knew where they are?" Takenaga added "Why did you say we didn't have to worry?"
"Apparently the eldest of the Nakashima men is getting married today. Kyouhei is probably there as a consort to his lady. Sunako and Auntie will be there as guest definitely." The playboy shared
"Wedding?" Yuki chimed
"That means.." Takenaga stated
"Sunako has a chance to prove herself a lady!" All three shouted.
"I wonder how Auntie will dress her up?" Yuki spoke.
"She will doll her up for sure but can Sunako handle the social pressure?" Ranmaru said
"Auntie is with her and its looks like she came willingly." Takenaga answered.
"How can you say Takenaga she came willing?" Yuki asked
"Because she was not screaming and did you not notice she climbed up to the chopper on her own." The brunette declared.
"Good observation Takenaga. Looks like Sunako is serious about taking the matriarch part." The playboy concluded
"She has no other way but to accept it. In the future she will always be a Nakahara. They will let her be a pathologist but the name stands." Takenaga confirmed.
"Sunako has been placed a big responsibility. But she is strong I am sure she can do this." Yuki proudly declared. "However I just hope Kyouhei does not get harassed in this party. You know his looks and the trouble it brings is regardless of social status."
"Kyouhei will be fine. As a servant under the Nakashima's I think no one will misbehave while in the host property. We might be talking of war if someone acts up at this family's precious affair." Takenaga remarked.
The three boys looked up the sky and all silently wished that their two friends will do fine.
Meanwhile in Okinawa, Kyouhei was summoned to Yumi Nakashima's office. "Madame Yumi, I stated in my contract no escorting jobs. Being a consort is synonymous to that." Kyouhei crossed his arms and glared at his boss. "Kyouhei, Sakura needs someone to help her move around. It is just like your butler job and the consort term is just to make it look formal."
"If it's a part of my butler job then why will I not wear a butler uniform? No way am I going in the event wearing that navy blue tuxedo." The blonde responded.
"We just want you to look fitting for the occasion. You can get mistaken as a waiter in that outfit." The elder explained.
There was a knock on the door and Sakura came in. "Grandmother, Kyouhei doesn't need to be my consort in Shoma Chou-ni's wedding. I already talked to Kyouya San-nii he will escort me. We did guarantee Kyouhei he will not be obliged to do these things."
"Lady Sakura" Kyouhei bowed. "Thank you for your kindness." Then he looked over to the elder and bowed. "Madame Yumi I believe things are settled now. If you wish to relocate my job for this event I will happily oblige."
Yumi smirked. "Very well Sakura, if Kyouya agreed then it is fine. But what are you going to do when he starts being friendly with Mine's niece?" the next statement piqued Kyouhei's interest.
"Grandmother didn't you make it clear since before that Shigure Ji-nii will be doing the marriage interview with Sunako? Kyouya San-nii will have to long for someone else." The lady replied.
"Will that even stop you brother? Honestly, I have no idea how he managed to keep track of her after all this time." Yumi replied.
Kyouhei gave a slight cough. "If I may speak?"
"Go on Takano." The matriarch permitted.
"How did Kyouya bochan kept in contact with Ms. Sunako?"
"Have you ever wondered why with your limited budget Sunako was able to feed you all generously? It is not because the people at the market give her huge discounts. It is because Kyouya was paying ninety percent of the cost. " the elder explained
"That doesn't really account into being in contact. But supporting will be a more appropriate term." Kyouhei stated.
"Takano, Kyouya San-nii has always had a fancy for Sunako when we were children. He thinks her violet eyes are pretty. " Sakura added.
"Why was he not assigned as marriage partner then? Why Shigure bochan?" the blonde queried his voice slightly shaking
"Sunako likes Shigure Ji-nii until all changed and she left Hokkaido. Kyouya San-nii was transferred to Kanto region just to find her." Sakura explained. "Now Takano, don't misunderstand Shigure Ji-nii is not the guy who called Sunako ugly. But Sunako loves to spar with him when taking self-defense classes."
"I never told you about the "ugly" incident in detail lady Sakura. How do you know?" Kyouhei pressed on.
"Ranmaru told me when you and Sunako were preparing food in the kitchen. They spoke well of her and her dreams to be a pathologist. Even if is she challenged because of that heartbreak, she still managed to open herself up. And as you have heard from grandmother, she is coming with her aunt. To be exact they arrived an hour ago." The young lady elaborated.
"Since you will not be escorting Sakura, I will assign you to ushering in the ceremony venue and lead the guest to their tables at reception. Be sure wear your navy blue tuxedo while at it." Yumi demanded.
Kyouhei bowed his head. "As you wish madame. I will be taking my leave now."
As Kyouhei left the room Yumi eyed Sakura. "How is your sight dear? Is it returning?" Sakura nodded. "The doctors said by the end of the year it will all be recovered. It is enough time for me to perfect closed eye visualization grandmother."
"Please don't do something as reckless as that again Sakura. You have left yourself defense less because of that temporary blindness."
"I am sorry to worry you grandmother but it is necessary to move forward the study."
"I am rather worried with how Kyouya and Shigure will behave towards Sunako later." Yumi touched her temples as if anticipating a headache. "Kyouya has always liked Sunako, calling her fondly as the beautiful angel with violet eyes. Shigure got interested in her too after seeing that photographer's horror inspired exhibit piece of Sunako. He bought the photo and placed it inside his room. Both are going to vie for her attention."
"We will just have to trust them that they will behave grandmother."
Mine proudly looked at Sunako. She was wearing a white tube dress that is two inches above her knees. The skirt part of the dress is flowing with a petticoat under giving it volume. She had her hair braided with a mix of white ribbon and it is neatly placed on her left shoulder. Since it is a beach wedding she is wearing flat gladiator but feminine sandals. Her make-up is light done very fitting for the day celebration that it is. "You look perfect Sunako dear. I am so proud of you. Let's take a picture, I am sure your mom and dad would love to see it too." Mine held out her phone to take a selfie. To her surprise Sunako had a faint smile in the photo. "Sunako dear, things have been doing well at home I presume?"
"You must be surprised that I am being more tolerable auntie. I have come to accept my role as a Nakahara. I want to be someone reliable for the future. Have I told you before? I want to be a pathologist."
"A pathologist will be a difficult feat Sunako. It seems that the boys are bound to get free rent the rest of year. Well Kyouhei is technically paid this year thanks to the Nakashima's. Which reminds me, Sunako didn't you like Shigure when you were a kid? Plus Kyouya has a strong liking towards you."
"Auntie, Shigure Ji-nii and Kyouya San-nii probably moved on with their lives now. I am sure a lot of women want to be by their side."
"Au contraire my dear niece! Did you know Shigure bought the photo of you and the boys entitled dinner? I was shocked he bought it at a crazy price. And I heard from sources that Kyouya is snooping which university you are planning to apply for so he can enroll there too. Honestly, before I was pushing you to Kyouhei but since we are not going to get anywhere, the Nakashima boys might topple him over." Mine pressed on.
"Auntie Kyouhei is a friend. Please stop pushing him into situations he doesn't like. I think it's one of the reasons he has such a violent behavior. He just hates it when being forced to do things."
"Okay, I will stop pushing him towards you from now on. We have two gorgeous and rich boys to handle. Now Sunako are you really ready for this? You will see a lot of dazzling people. They will ask you the most socialite questions. If you feel too pressed on the side, always politely excuse yourself and call me so I can take you to our room or something." Auntie instructed.
Nodding Sunako followed her Aunt's lead toward the golf car that will be taking them to the venue by the sea side. The drive from the casita to the venue was short. But it did not stop Sunako to appreciate the calm blue sea, the refreshing breeze, the sandy beach and the tropical fauna in sight. It is a beautiful place to hold a wedding in. She was caught of her reverie when a familiar voice greeted her. "Ms. Sunako and Ms. Mine, allow me to escort you to your seats." Kyouhei's stated in a well tone and manner trained speech. He held out his hand to Sunako with a smile.
His eyes were sparkling, the black haired girl thought. It probably has something to do with the light filled venue. Taking his hand she unconsciously smiled and muttered a thank you. Alighting from the cart, Kyouhei admired how the white dress fitted her well. The hairstyle is unique and she looked natural, the make-up is really light. In his opinion she didn't need that touch of make-up.
Kyouhei was equally dashing in this navy blue suit. It blended with the color of his hair and the cut complimented his frail but muscular physique. Both youth were oblivious that they are admiring each other until Mine interrupted. "Ahem, lead the way to our seats Takano."
Kyouhei slightly blushed and ushered the direction. After taking a few steps a deep male voice was heard. "Sunako-chan is that you?" a man in well pressed gray suit greeted. He had deep black eyes, an aristocratic nose, fine set of teeth and well defined jaw. He hurriedly approached the young woman. In return the girl stared at him trying to recall who he is. In mere seconds the man moved past Kyouhei, held Sunako by the waist with both arms and hoisted her in the air. As Sunako was lifted the words that escaped her lips was "Shigure Ji-nii!"
As the girl recognized him he maneuvered his hands so he can carry her bridal style. Smiling he answered "I am glad you have not forgotten me Sunako-chan. It has been years since I last saw you. You never went to the Hokkaido functions anymore."
"It's great to see you again Shi ji-nii. But can you please put me down? It's embarrassing I am not the one getting married here." Sunako teased her captor who she called with his nickname.
"Us getting married you mean? I like the sound of that." The man retorted back.
Kyouhei seeing the exchange gave a blank stare. But deep inside his blood was boiling. Flirting openly at broad daylight at a formal event nonetheless, it is not a way a lady should behave. But can he reprimand his master? It was him who started it. He knows he can't, he is but a butler and the girl in question does not seem to mind the attention. Then he was reminded of what madame Yumi have said. Sunako has always liked Shigure bochan. How can he contend with that? Sighing he looked away. "Excuse me Ms. Mine, as Ms. Sunako and Shigure bochan get familiar I shall assist you now to your seat."
He needed to get away and do his job. She can flirt or entertain anybody for all he cares. As he was to leave the scene, another voice emerged. "Shigure Ji-nii, have some shame. You have not seen Sunako-chan for so long and you touch her so causally. That is so ungentlemanly of you." Says an equally dashing man who looked similar to Shigure but has gentler eyes and thinner lips.
Shigure gently placed Sunako down. "Kyouya aren't you supposed to escorting Sakura?" The elder asked. "She is coming with grandmother Ji-nii. How about you? Don't you have a date for the occasion? You always have a different lady for every event."
Shigure smirked. "You know I only escort them because they asked me too. When I heard Sunako-chan was coming I made myself available."
Kyouya snorted and held out his hand to Sunako. "Forgive my big brother for being boorish Sunako-chan. It has been a while it is great to see you."
Out of politeness Sunako took his hand and smiled. "It's nice to see you again too Kyo san-nii."
Great another nuisance vying for the attention of one girl who only started acting like a lady a mere few hours ago. Kyouhei thought irritatedly.
Feeling the tension in the air from the two brothers and the butler Mine stepped in. "Shigure and Kyouya I am glad you are both here looking dashing as always." Then the woman took her niece by the waist and ushered her away. "From what I recall, Sunako-chan came with me. So sorry if you want to spend some time with her, ask more appropriately." The elder gave the two men a wink and hurriedly took Sunako away. "Now Takano take us to our seats." She ordered the inwardly fuming boy.
"I deeply apologize for the shock I have given you Sunako-chan." Shigure bowed and stated.
"I hope we can catch up later Sunako-chan." Kyouya asked expectantly.
Sunako looked back and smiled. "Maybe at the reception we can talk more Shi Ji-nii and Kyo san-nii. Until then, thank you for welcoming me." With that said she followed Kyouhei's lead to their seats.
"Will I make sure that you seat with them Lady Sunako?" Kyouhei asked icily.
"Whatever you see fit creature." Came her retort.
"You like them groveling at your feet don't you?" he accused.
"I was trying to be social, don't think rudely of it."
"Fine, I am just a butler here. They are my masters and you are our guest. What do I know?" he sarcastically remarked. Soon enough they have reached the women's designated seats.
"If you please, ladies here are your seats. " Kyouhei held out his hand. As he was about to leave and Sunako was going to settle on her assigned chair, she touched the tip of his fingers to catch his attention. Surprised at the gesture he looked at her. She was directly looking at him too. "You are not just a butler. You are my friend remember that."
Kyouhei turned his back with mixed feelings. Why did the Nakashima brother's behavior even bothered him? And Sunako was just trying to be sociable, why couldn't he be a friend and support it? Shigure's voice echoed in his head. "Us getting married you mean? I like the sound of that." He again felt a burning sensation in his chest. Damn it all, sure he is her friend. But besides that what else can he offer? In the end he is just a penniless boy with nothing to be proud of. That fact breaks his resolve and confidence more than anyone could ever know.
The beach wedding was delightful. The string quartet hired exquisitely played the music. The brightness of the sun and refreshing breeze gave a calm atmosphere. The bride's gown was made of light fabrics and it slowly flowed as she walked. Her veil and terrain is of great length which at the tips have detailed embroideries of flower patterns in crystals. Her bouquet was all white roses laced with pearls.
Everyone was teary eyed when the bride and the groom met at the altar. Some have some have sobbed when they exchanged their vows. While loud cheers echoed once the couple shared their kiss as man and wife. Happiness was clearly seen in both their face. "It's a good thing Shoma and Kaori fell in love for real after the marriage interview meeting. It is always great to marry for love right Sunako?" Mine whispered to her niece.
"I think I am too young to think of these things Auntie. I have yet to become a lady and study to be pathologist before considering such matters."
"You are right you have your whole life ahead of you. But it is always good to have goal or shall we say it's not bad to have someone in mind." The elder teased.
Sunako decided to keep silent and avoid further teasing. Across from view she can see Shigure and Kyouya, they look similar but have very distinctive features. Shigure is carefree oozing with charm while Kyouya is serious and mysteriously appealing. They are both distinguished men, Shigure is five years older than her. After graduating from college he took over the Nakashima food industry business. He gave the Sakura an opportunity to explore her cooking and bentou art skills. Records show that sales under his management improved by ten percent. Aside from business, Shigure is known to be Japan's real number one Karate expert and is a certified Krav Maga practitioner. They just keep the fact under wraps to prevent publicity.
Kyouya is three years older than her. He will be finishing pre-clinical studies in Tokyo University soon. He is aspiring to be a doctor and rumor has it that the top 3 medical schools, Oxford, Harvard and Cambridge want to cater to his clinical studies. He was known to be a science prodigy that is helping in the development of closed eye visualization. He is also taking part in the evaluation of products to be provided to physically challenged individuals. Kyouya like Shigure is a top karate expert and with his medical interest excels in Jujitsu too.
Sunako surprised herself that she recalled the details of the two men when Auntie gave her their profiles this morning. As for the groom Shoma he is eight years older. He is overseeing the military position of the Nakashima's to the world. He is an expert in the top ten most widely known martial arts. It was said that he can already make his own version with the knowledge that he has. Aside from strength Shoma is an engineer who is focusing on bio-engineering. As health becomes a bigger commodity and mobility whether in old age or sickness, he is focusing on improvements to increase the quality of life. Kaori his wife is a chemist and researcher of a top medical firm. It was said that they met at a conference where a blood thinner was being developed for people over seventy five. It was not love at first sight, but due to their passion towards work they had a mutual understanding. Seeing they are doing well Kaori's family agreed to let her go to a marriage interview with Shoma. And the rest from that is history.
The guest started to transfer to the reception venue after the bride and groom exited. Sunako and Mine decided to stay put and avoid the crowd. Soon they heard a familiar voice speak. "Lady and Madame Nakahara, please allow me to escort you to the reception." Kyouhei offered.
"There is no need to hurry Takano." Mine assured
"I am under strict orders that the Nakahara's must sit with the Madame Yumi and the rest of the Nakashima siblings. For that reason, we must not be late. It is unbecoming of a guest to keep their host waiting." Kyouhei pressed on.
Mine smirked at Kyouhei. "It seems you have been doing well as a butler Kyouhei. Tell me besides the etiquette classes have they started teaching you more physical things? Like martial arts and self-defense?"
"That is classified information Madame Nakahara. Forgive me, as much as you are my guardian, I cannot reveal sensitive details."
They walked towards the golf buggy they are to take. Kyouhei took side glances at Sunako wondering if she is okay. So far the scary girl turned lady survived wearing the dress, talking with people and bearing the ceremony. Can she hold up while taking the meal and partaking in further the festivities?
He assisted her down the cart once more. As if feeling his worry, Sunako whispered. "Don't worry, I am going to be fine." He looked at her with puzzling eyes and she added, "I prepared myself to go to a social function since the day I agreed we can meet in my room." Elegantly she walked on ahead past him.
Her new found confidence made his heart swell. She just looked so cool and what could the appropriate term be? Only beautiful could be fitting to describe her know. Gathering his resolved he rushed to her side and stated. "My lady, I am to escort you both until are seated. Please follow me."
Kyouhei and Sunako walking side by side stirred whispers in the crowd. Comments vary from, what a beautiful man and woman. Such a lovely sight are they a pair? From what prestigious families are these youth from? More commotion rose up as they approached the table of the Nakashima's. People began to wonder what business do they have with the host. Kyouhei assisted Mine and Sunako to their seat. When the two ladies are settles in he bowed elegantly. "Madame Yumi, would that be all?" Yumi nodded indicating he may take his leave.
As Kyouhei turned his back, he could not help but notice Shigure and Kyouya's longing stares at Sunako. As a man he understands that their intentions are pure. The way Sunako acted it's a given she acknowledges their company. This readiness to accept them at the get go made him feel uneasy. I took him over year to get an approval from her. While these two men are special to her from the start. What can he expect? She liked one from before and the other is equally relevant. Unlike him who she just forcefully endured because they are housemates. Sighing he walked away and instructed himself to not to bother anymore. As the Nakahara's were settled, questions from the two gentlemen emerged.
"Sunako-chan, Sakura told me you want to be in the medical field too. I think you should consider going to foreign school. Pathology needs a broad window and going to either Oxford, Harvard or Cambridge can be advantageous." Shigure proposed.
"I have to work on my gpa and credits to consider that Shigure-san. Thank you for the suggestion. However just incase I plan to challenge Tokyo University for pre-clinical. Maybe I will consider abroad for clinical studies."
"If you want to go to Tokyo University, I can help you by giving my old notes while I was preparing to enter it. Or if our schedule permits I can tutor you." Shigure offered.
"Aren't you too eager little brother?" Shigure teased. " Sunako-chan like Sakura you will be debuting to society soon. Exposure to the world would require you to polish your self defense skills. You know the risks of people living like us."
"Thank you for worrying about me Shigure-san. I do plan to take self dense classes again next month. I am interested in Jujitsu. For a woman I think it will be appropriate for strength and stealth."
"Sunako dear" Yumi called out "You are welcome even as early as now to come and enhance you Jujitsu skills. Your housemate Takano is having classes every weekend. You can come along when Soujiro picks and drops him off." The people at the table remained silent. Sunako was puzzled by the offer she couldn't give a ready answer.
"Sunako darling, Madame Yumi's offer is gracious. I will feel at ease knowing you are someone with whenever leaving the house." Mine reassured.
"I will think about it. Will it be okay if I pass my message through him Madame Yumi?" Sunako queried. The elder woman nodded in agreement.
"I will definitely drop by if Sunako-chan comes over." Shigure cheerly replied. "I will be your personal trainer."
"Shigure Jin-nii, I am the Jujitsu expert compared to you. I will be her trainer." the younger man countered.
"My dear brothers, please you will scare Sunako. For starters I will be her sparring partner and the resident sensei will be the teacher."
"Sakura! You can't decide for us like that." Shigure pressed on.
"Yes, we have enough qualifications to do it." Kyouya added.
"Enough, Sunako dear I apologize. Sakura will take care of you once the lessons commence." Yumi eyed the two males. "As for the two of you, it is not allowed to let our personal desires to affect our choices. You both know your schedules have been settled since last year. It cannot fit if we are going to go about your whims"
"I am sorry to cause trouble Madame Yumi. If it will be more convenient, I can take the lessons elsewhere you can recommend."
"The best place is ours Sunako. I assure you, your presence will be an honor." The Nakashima matriarch reaffirmed. "Shigure, Kyouya, I expect you two to be in your best behavior from now on. Sunako must choose for herself until the day she becomes a pathologist."
Shigure sighed. "I am confident I can assist her. However, okay I will step back until Sunako-chan willing asks for my help. Kyouya you will do likewise too right?"
Kyouya just nodded and stared at Sunako. He still has so much to say but doing so might sour the grandmother's mood more. He decided to find a away to talk to her in private later. Shigure in the other hand is having the same thoughts. As if deciphering their plans Madame Yumi spoke. "Mine, its been a tiresome day. I suggest after the reception festivities you and Sunako be on your way. She does have school tomorrow."
"If you insists I take no offense in it. To be honest this whole function has really placed a toll on her. I actually asked her to wake up at dawn to come here with me." Mine laughed softly. "But you did well Sunako darling, right Madame Yumi."
The elder nodded and they continued to eat. The rest of the meal was filled with conversations about recent events in the society of the rich. Shigure talked about his future business plans. Kyouya talked about his research paper and the latest results of his experiments. Sakura talked about things in school and her planned menu's for bentous. Mine talked about her travels and how e-commerce is developing in Africa and Europe due to his brother's effort. All eyes turned to Sunako as they ushered her to speak. As if on que Kyouhei arrived and stood behind the Nakashima matriarch. Sunako suddenly felt shy but taking a deep breath she shared her thoughts.
" I am now taking the time to stabilize my math. Its is my shakiest subject, in order to qualify to the University of my choice securing it is necessary. Aside from that I will consult with Auntie about my social calendar. Maybe some events can be squeeze in so I can get familiar with everyone. Plus can I make a request Sakura?" She then eyed the other girl. "Our cooking session, let's held it this month. I think we have delayed it long enough. It doesn't matter if its your place or ours. It will be fun."
Sakura smiled. "Of course, I am free next weekend. If you can I will come over your house."
"Why not our home?" Shigure interjected
"Yes, I agree." Kyouya agreed
" Sunako-chan has dear friends at home who loves her cooking. I think they deserve to enjoy the food we will be making. It will be a great way to thank them right?"
"Thank you for remembering my friends Sakura. I will make sure to invite everyone. That is fine with you to Auntie?"
Mine nodded and smiled. Sunako is making more friends. Learning new things, expressing herself openly and enduring this whole event. She really is thankful that this time Sunako is serious on being a lady. "Yumi-san, I don't mean to be too forward. But can I take Takano with me? He too like Sunako has school tomorrow."
Yumi smiled. "That is why I called him here. Takano once the festivities are over, you may come home with them. Take the black bentley to their jet's hanger."
Kyouhei bowed. "As you wish madame." Inwardly Kyouhei is relieved he can finally go home. Its been two nights since he did not sleep his own bed. He eyed his housemate delicately smiling at the compliment Shigure said to her. Its been two nights since he spent time with her in the confines of the female's room. He saw her blush as Kyouya cheered for her to pass Tokyo University. He then wondered if its possible for him to make her smile or blush like that. He looked at the girl longingly. When can he talk to her more freely? Will he be ever to do so? "If I may speak?" he uttered. Yumi raise her hand to allow him. "Would that be all madame? Shall attend back to my duties?"
"Takano, you are relieved from your duties for now. Enjoy your time off as you please but make sure not to forget go along with Mine-san later."
"Thank you for your thoughtfulness Yumi-sama." Kyouhei uttered. After finishing his statement music began to play.
"Yumi-sama, Kyouhei and Sunako once joined a ballroom dancing contest before. Would you like to see them dance?" Mine offered.
"That your be entertaining. Sunako dear and Takano can the two of you entertain us?"
"Grandmother, I wanted to dance with her first." Shigure declared. "I am, I am her marriage interview partner right?"
"Shigure Ji-nii, Sunako is not of age yet. Stop saying silly things." Kyouya countered.
"Shigure, Kyouya is right Sunako is not of age yet. She will be more comfortable dancing with someone familiar. I want her to enjoy this day too. It has been awhile since I have seen her in gatherings." Yumi directed her yes to Sunako. "But if you wish not to Sunako dear, there is no need to push yoursel."
"I don't mind as long as Takano does not mind Yumi-sama." Kyouhei's eyes widened and his heart skip a beat. Did she just call him Takano? It was the first time she address him by his name. Okay it is his surname but from being called creature, radiant being and other things this is a pleasant change. Kyohei walked forward and offered his hand to Sunako. "May I have this dance lady Sunako?"
She shyly took his hand and stood up. He cautiously lead her to the dance floor. Hesitantly placing his hand on her waist while the other remains holding her hand. She too was awkward at positioning her hand to his shoulder. Once their stance is done, they looked into each other eyes. At the sound of a note they began to move their feet. The music directed their movements but both were lost in their gaze. Hearts frantically beating and breaths feeling uneasy but both refusing to let go of this moment. Sunako decided to break the silence. "Would you mind if I take self defense classes with you?"
Kyouhei was surprised of her question. " If it will make you happy, I see nothing wrong with it." His answer made Sunako display a faint smile. "Are you relieved I am not spilling blood on you now?" Displaying a subtle smirk he nodded. "Congratulations on surviving this day Nakahara. Step by step you are getting there." The girl nodded but kept contact at staring at him. Kyouhei cannot help but be imprisoned by her eyes. He was drowning and in order to stay afloat he needs to say what is in his mind since the first time he saw her today. Gathering his courage he took a deep breathe and with a voice sounding above a whisper he muttered the words out of his lips.
Sunako blushed feeling embarrassed and tried to look away. He swung her so she should look back and with his teasing smile he said. "You should get used to hearing that." She looked at him wide eyes and her face feeling warm. To her surprise he too has a faint blush on his cheeks. Neither wanted to break the contact. Until the last song they danced. While Sunako is inwardly in sweet turmoil found satisfaction with what Kyouhei said. "You are beautiful." Coming from him, she wants to believe it with all her heart.
Author's notes:
My longest chapter so far. Thanks for all who viewed, reviewed and followed the story. Please continue to review, your ideas and questions will be most welcomed.
Again thank you for supporting this story.
