"Chapter 8: Decisions and Understandings"

Kyouhei swiped off the sweat on his temples. The self-defense lessons have been getting more intense. He has always been aware of his strength. To be honest he kind of believes he is some sort of mutation as his mother would say; too beautiful and in the same time strong. This asset made him stand out in the classes being conducted. The teachers began giving him special attention, challenging him more physically and mentally. He would take twice the weight to carry, half the time limit, double the height to reach and to some point lesser oxygen to work with. But he did not mind the challenge. If there was one thing he realized in doing all of this, he came to accept that defending and protecting rather than fighting is his calling.

He was given a fifteen minute break. It was a chance to let his mind wonder and visualize what the past was and the future should be. He recalled that his looks would gain unwanted attention. Whenever this suffocation happens he gets not angry. What is the cause of this anger? Unlike Ranmaru who would welcome and bask in the attention he would rather avoid it. Then it occurred to him after seventeen years of life the reason why the endearments troubled him. His personal space was always violated; the sacred privacy included his mother's comfort. As admirer's number grew, more phone calls and letters came in; his mother became more restless and insecure. She drifted away and to the point of rejecting him the process. He remembered how it hurt the first time to hear her say she wished he was not born.

How old was he then? Was he six or seven that time? How could a child react to these words? Kyouhei's first move was to be angry at the cause of the problem. He began to lash out on his admirers, dread the attention and fear touches. He often felt that human touch is dirty and full of lust. This lust is being directed to him because of his face. This face as he said before is a curse. It attracted assaulters, drove his mother away, fired him from jobs and made him experience violations on his body more times he can count.

He sighed. All he ever wished for was a normal life. To walk the school corridor casually, eat meals in peace, speak while not being ogled at and be recognized beyond what his looks display. His fifteen minutes is almost up and decided to stand up from his seat. He eyed the training room and all the participants in it. Truth be told, whenever he is doing his butler training and duties that is the time he feels normal. Sakura never gave him unnecessary attention. Maybe it is a factor she is blind? Madame Yumi showed no sense of desire for him which is a relief. The Nakashima men are too absorbed with their business and let them be. Every servant in the Nakashima house hold would praise his beauty but besides that nothing more. He found comfort in that there is a place a safe for him.

He was to return to his post when a familiar brunette caught his eye. She was doing meditation; the peaceful sight calmed his heart. Sunako has been progressing well with the lady training. True to her word, she managed to come on social functions and charm people. Her Math grades have also improved. Many could not believe she is now rivaling Takenaga for the top spot in school. He was not surprised though, since freshman year they knew Sunako had it, she was just to not making an effort before. But now he could see how her hard work paid off. She still retained some of her old qualities. If possible she would avoid crowds and her circle of friends limited only to the four radiant boys and three beautiful ladies.

Kyouhei walked back to his position in the training hall. He better get back to work. It was rumored that master Shoma will be coming today and evaluating how things are going. True that they have met quite a handful of times, but a good impression is always handy to have.

Sunako opened her eyes from meditation and saw Kyouhei returning to his post. Her heart fluttered observing him do light stretching. After having this opportunity, he has been calmer and less temperamental. She has come to accept that now Kyouhei is earning something for himself it made him less insecure. Not saying it out loud, he gets upset whenever the outcome might end as him being a burden. Knowing about how his Mom treats him, she began to understand his need for acceptance. But during that time she had issues on acceptance herself. In truth she partially blamed herself for not rescuing and left him to suffer.

Sure there are lots of instances she called him back. She did things for him but made it look forced; pride won't admit his importance. There was a fear that by accepting the light, darkness will disappear together with her identity. However the past days has proven it false. Things were doing well in school and gatherings while keeping Hiroshi, Josephine, Akira and John company. She would still watch horror movies and prefer dark colored things. Her room remains lightless, curiosity for bones and internal organs were no different. But this time she feels relieved and accepted so being different does not matter. She can be who she is and still look forward to the future.

Looking at Kyouhei's radiance, a question popped in her head. During the nights they share together in the confines of her room, he never talked about future plans. All he shares is about current activities and the past that disturbed him. She attempted to ask him a number of times but his answer would be he is yet to figure it out. Tonight on their way home she will ask him again. School will be almost over. How would he like to spend summer? Blushing at the thought, why is she concerned of how he will spend summer? Maybe she got to accustomed him being around it will be strange if it changes.

Kyouhei was absorbed with his practice that he failed to notice Shoma Nakashima eyeing him. Shoma received word from Soujiro that Kyouhei is an exceptional fighter. His marks at school are decent, as for etiquette goes there was huge improvement and good looks that can charm a way out of everything. He had been observing him as Sakura's official butler. It's obvious this man has no interest with his sister romantically but as a subordinate he can be loyal. He read Kyouhei's file. He possessed a face that caused a lot of trouble. Sakura once shared that she offered Kyouhei to study at the institute of the visually impaired. His sister is right about Kyouhei will enjoy the normal life with the blind. But the man is yet to consider the offer since he does not want to leave home. True that studying in the institute would require him to stay in the dorms. Hearing this Shoma began to investigate out of curiosity why Kyouhei Takano was so invested in the Nakahara mansion.

He recalled in his wedding the boy has danced all night long with the Nakahara heiress. Their gestures are awkward but there is a connection. They are very civil when doing their training on weekends as observers say. They come in and out without much interaction. Soujiro even said they barely talk inside the car to and from home. But in moments of carefreeness Sunako and Kyouhei would also let lose. Sakura shared the cooking day at the Nakahara mansion. Kyouhei insistently bothered the heiress about hurrying up in serving the food. The two would bicker continuously, fight and make up at a bash of an eyelash. But at the end of the day, the man has nothing but compliments for Sunako's cooking. Kyouhei also smiles freely in the presence of his male friends and their partners. It seems that the bond of friendship is keeping him in the Nakahara home. Because even if he suffers outside, he has a place he can find refuge in.

However, the time will come each member of the household will have to leave. Reading the profiles Ranmaru Morii is bound to study in Paris, France while Takenaga Oda will go to a business school in the United States. The bourgeoisie by Yukinojo Toyama opted for a state college outside of Kanto region. Sunako given her improved scholastic records could actually go in Tokyo University. Unless deciding to go overseas she will be the only person he will be with at the mansion. Would Mine Nakahara actually allow her only niece to live alone with a man?

Checking Kyouhei's form once again, he smirked. His stance is like Shigure Krav Maga will be very effective on him. His grandmother's recommendation was correct. He approached the absorbed youth and called out "Takano, Kyouhei I wish to speak with you for a moment."

Hearing his name called, out of instinct he bowed to the owner of the voice. "Master Shoma, how can I be of service?"

"We will talk in private come to my office." Kyouhei bowed to his sparring partner and teacher before heading towards Shoma's office.

Once the door was shut in the office, Shoma gave an order. "Takano come attack me with what you got, but make sure not to break anything. Can you do that?"

"I will try my best master Shoma." With that said Kyouhei stealthly charged with a punch. Shoma blocked of the attack. "You have strength Takano but slow." Taking advantage of the close distance Kyouhei tried to knee kick him but Shoma hopped back. "Your reflexes needs work" He tried charging gain and as Shoma made a defensive stance he slid down the floor aiming to get his opponent of balanced. Noticing his change of attack Shoma jumped in time to avoid it and bounced of the wall to reach the opposite side of the room. "That was a good move but needs more speed."

"Come here Takano and try to hit me." Kyouhei did as told but every punch and kick he throws Shoma blocked it. "I have not moved from my position Takano." Kyouhei then realized that his master blocked his blows while staying in the same spot. "Strength and Power are two different things. In battle, you must understand that."

Kyouhei withdrew panting knowing well too much energy has been used. Bowing he pleaded "Please teach me how to manage Strenght and Power master." Shoma smiled "Takano are you sure about your request?"

"I have thought about it master. I realized that protecting and defending is my calling. I have misused it by fighting and hurting people whenever angry. But now with the guidance of Soujiro-san my temper is more controllable. I believe my service to this world is related to this."

"From my experience of reading people, I know you are a good man Takano. Soujiro and my grandmother both have seen your potential. It is the reason why I called you here. To present a proposal that will grant you the ability to be the best you can be. However, sacrifices are needed to the point of self-deprivation to reach the desired results. Are you willing to succumb?"

"Master honestly, I want to hear the terms before agreeing. I have my share of misgivings due to deciding brashly. If I may, upon hearing the terms please give me some time to think it over?"

The elder eyed Kyouhei sternly. "In battle we need to make quick decisions. There should be strong resolve that whatever happens to the choice made will not be regretted. However, this offer is for a long term war so I will grant you time. So I shall start the terms?"

Kyouhei nodded in anticipation. Shoma stated the conditions Kyouhei must meet. Some the younger anticipated, while the other terms seem peculiar and a few are kind of unacceptable. "I will only grant the opportunity if all will be agreed upon, no more, no less. You have a week to give me your answer. So evaluate well."

"I understand master." Kyouhei bowed "Shall I take my leave then?" Shoma waved his hand indicating he may do so. Kyouhei gently closed the door and headed back to the training room. Surprisingly he came across Shigure on the way. "Master Shigure what a surprise."

"When I did not see you at the training hall, I knew that Shoma Chou-nii called for you." Kyouhei kept silent. "Takano he surely gave you an offer right?" Kyouhei nodded. "You know my dear boy every opportunity requires some work. So if you want to achieve something be prepared to work for it."

"Master Shigure, your advise is well considered." Shigure gazed at him strongly. "I know you are being trained to be Sakura's aide. But in the future maybe you could consider being my future wife's butler?"

Kyouhei's heart skipped at beat hearing those words. "To be of service to you master Shigure will be an honor. As long as it is decided upon the Nakashima household I will follow." He tried to sound convincing and unaffected as he could. "Takano, I know Sunako-chan is important to you. If by chance she chooses me, it is the closest you can get. Are willing stay by her side that way?"

Kyouhei breathed in, why is this guy talking nonsense? So what if Sunako marries him? "Master Shigure, lady Nakahara is an important friend to me. I owe her family just as much as the Nakashima's. Even if no one orders me, I will protect her at all costs."

Shigure walked closer to Kyouhei and patted his right shoulder. "I believe you will Takano. That is why I assure you, Shoma Chou-nii's offer is the best in terms of long benefits."

"It seems you are too eager for me to agree with the terms master Shigure? I cannot help but think what is in it for you?" Kyouhei spoke his mind freely. He can't take it anymore. It seems the two brothers are conspiring him to oblige. "Because its best for Sunako-chan, as I said given she chooses me we can protect her both. But if she chooses another and I cannot be by her side, at least I can send you as her butler."

"You are planning to give me away in the future master?" the blonde inquired

Shigure increased his grip on Kyouhei's shoulder. "You will protect her at all cost right Takano? So if we give you away to be by her side no matter who the betrothed is, I will be in good spirits."

"Do you love her that much my lord?" Kyouhei cannot help but ask. "Yes at every fiber of my being." That said Shigure let go of his grip on Kyouhei's shoulders. Turning his back to walk away from the blonde boy he spoke "In the future I might be paired with another. But she will always be special to me. Choose well Takano."

Kyouhei watched Shigure walk away. He could not understand Shigure's deep feelings for Sunako. They barely see each other. His basis is barely memories when they were children. How can he be certain of these feelings of love? Grown-ups are weird.

Kyouhei and Sunako tiredly rode the car together home. Soujiro did not join them that day. He had urgent matters to attend to since Shoma and Shigure are home. Sunako glanced at Kyouhei who was beside her. "Why did Shoma Chou-nii called for you?"

He was surprised she noticed. The thought of her eyeing him during training brought a slight blush. "Some official business I need to decide on until next week."

"It's that confidential?" Sunako meekly continued.

"Yes, sorry."

Sunako decided to let it go. Unconsciously she moved a few centimeters away from the boy. Kyouhei noticed the girl distancing. He mental cursed the situation. It would not be wise to share the details Shoma-sama gave him. Getting inputs from others might cloud his judgment. More than anything this needs to be decided purely by his preference. But part of him did not want her to drift away. The distance may be in centimeters, but considering how much they have gone through, it represent miles as their internal resolves are concerned. He was not going to let her move away that easily.

"I'm tired" the boy declared and to the girls surprise he took the liberty to lie on her lap. Eyes covered with his right arm he muttered. "What are you doing?" she shrieked

"Wake me up when we're home." He said with finality. He could sense her sigh in defeat. His position provided healing to his aching joints. Since the girl did not protest, leaning to the right back facing her, he kept eyes closed. There was no need for her to sense his nervousness. He also did not want her prying more about what Shoma-sama said. He just wants to lay on her lap, savor the moment and rest. "Sunako please think don't less of me. " he pleadingly thought.

As if hearing his mind, Sunako gently touched his head and gave him a scalp massage. "You worked hard." The sensation brought an intense feeling he could not fathom. Hopefully she did not notice his momentarily loss of breath.

"At the end of this week .." she paused thinking how to continue "At the end of this week when you make your decision. Maybe some part of it we won't understand. If that happens and you cannot justify it fully for now.." the girl breathed in deeply, her hand shifted to rest on his shoulder. "If it's really what you think is best, in the future when all is done I am sure we will understand." Kyouhei opened his eyes, shifting position so he could directly look at her face. Her lovely features softly looking at him. She carried on saying "So in advance I am apologizing that I made you feel bad."

Her hand touched his cheek tenderly a faint smile on her face. He could see longing in her eyes. But what can he say? As an assurance he is paying attention, he reached for the hand touching his cheek. He returned the smile to her. "Thanks, will keep that in mind as I stand by that decision."

"Go to sleep, Kyouhei." Sunako delicately ushered. It was one of those rare moments she would address him by name. Closing his eyes, the amount of relief on what she said made him relax. At least now he knows that whatever he chooses she will be supportive. Knowing this he gained resolve that he can do Shoma's Rule number one. Earn the full trust of the people closest to your heart. It will connect your feelings regardless of the situation, to the point of blindly they will believe in you. He is thankful to Sunako for affirming that.

They have arrived home and Sunako was going to hear straight to the kitchen. "Hey can I help you with dinner? Soujiro-san has thought me a thing or two now." She handed him an apron. "You can cook the rice." Nodding he wore the apron and prepared the rice and loaded it to the cooker. "Anything else Nakahara?"

"Wash and peel those vegetables." was the next instruction. Kyouhei eyed the produced she took out of the fridge. "Today is the day I will start eating carrots."

Sunako was surprised with the declaration. "I have to take care of my health and wellbeing right?" the boy responded to her confused face. That said Kyouhei got confident he can accomplish the second rule. Do not be picky with food. In the battle field keeping fueled is all that matters.

Kyouhei was true to his word. His male housemates were in awe that he ate the carrots in front of them. Of course there were uncomfortable facial expressions in his part. He will get the hang of it in no time.

"Kyouhei, Noi told me that the girls in school have noticed your temperament change. They are very pleased of your calmer and cooler persona. And what is surprising, due to this tranquility they don't want to disturb you anymore. They would rather admire you from afar. Isn't it great news?" Takenaga shared.

"So that's why the volume of love letters decreased. The flocking at the front gate too is less severe. It's great news congratulations Kyouhei!" Yuki cheered.

"Still be careful of some crazies." Ranmaru warned. "The decent ones will leave you alone, but the crazy ones might get more obsessed."

Kyouhei smirked at the good news. He actually noticed it two months ago. Hearing the confirmation for others makes it more meaningful. With the demeanor he is displaying now, it looks like rule number three is accomplished. Create a lovely persona that is so charming people won't suspect you. He still has half way to go before the big decision.

"Aren't you going to say anything Kyouhei?" Yuki inquired.

"Honestly, I am just happy my hard work paid off. At the start, it was so tiring and frustrating as if I will burst." The blonde confessed. "But is all in the past now."

"How did you endure it?" the brunette asked

Kyouhei was caught off guard with the question. How did he? The days of tiredly getting home flashed his mind. Every time almost with no fail he takes that detour to find comfort. He recalled the many horror movies, shared ice cream and gentle conversations in the dark. Her normal speaking voice is enough to calm him. Even from afar at school, her bright eyes and gentle smile encourage him. Considering these things doubt came over about complying with rule number four. Be independent, live out of your comfort zone. This house is a refuge he can't let it go yet.

"Kyouhei are you okay? You spaced out with Takenaga's question." Yuki expressed with concern.

"I was thinking of the answer. All that came to mind is this house and the people in it. When you guys shared future plans, I wanted to make one too. I always thought my face was the source of my bad luck. In truth it may be a factor, but it was my anger issues that made me go deep. You guys never got tired of being patient with me. I guess it rubbed on and pushed me to be better."

"Kyouhei that was so sweet of you to say." Yuki said teary eyed.

"I must say, you have become a smooth talker. You can woo women soon enough." Ranmaru teased

"We are proud of you Kyouhei. When the time comes we need to live independently. Surely you can hold off on your own." Takenaga reassured.

"Yeah, hope I could" Kyouhei rubbed the back of his neck. "That was so intense."

"So what do you want in the future Kyouhei?" Yuki curiously asked.

"I like my job right now. Not to brag but I do possess formidable strength. Instead of using it to fight aimlessly, I want to use it to protect people. Going the path of a self-defense master will be a fitting option for me."

"It is a brave choice Kyouhei. The path you want to choose will be difficult. Like the samurai's the discipline would be intense. Sacrifices will be a norm, I advise to get a grip on your temper." Takenaga replied.

"Kyouhei, your life enjoyment will be limited. You were never the one to indulge in crowds, can't blame you. However can you really live in total isolation? To prepare for that you need to go somewhere foreign and start over so you can find yourself again." Ranmaru clarified.

"I understand the risks of the choice. So please cheer me on as try to find my way." The blonde requested.

"You know Kyouhei, there will be times your decisions will not be fully understood by us. If we won't agree immediately but intentions are pure, though it hurts, a truce can be made. Let's all be strong together." Yuki declared.

Kyouhei decided to help Sunako with the dishes after dinner. She still has that habit of eating alone. The reason being much exposure to them might mess the food up. He girl did not want her bloody nose to spoil the meal. "When do you think it's possible to join us at the table?" the boy asked.

"I need to take it slow. Maybe when the new school year starts?"

"Take your time, so far the progress you showed is good. Going out in well-lit places, interacting with people, smiling at gatherings and making great conversations it's remarkable. " Kyouhei smirked. "At first it was only master Shigure and master Kyouya vying for you. Now I could hear some guys at the training hall talk about you. They just can't make a move since you are kind of branded as Nakashima property already." He sounded teasing, but after realizing what he just said a feeling of uneasiness enveloped him. "Nakahara, sorry about the last statement. I did not mean to objectify you. " was his nervous follow up.

"I understand what you mean. Actually not only Auntie, Mom, Dad, Gradparents, my whole clan is asking me who do I prefer between Shi ji-nii and Kyo san-nii. But it's too early for that just yet. I want to do things for myself before giving it to someone else."

"How do you plan to push them off? You have ties with that clan, how will you buy time to prevent answering prematurely?" Kyouhei pressed on.

"After the school ends, I am asked to go to Hokkaido for a family gathering. Everyone will be there. I will tell them my stand and wish not to be given into engagement too soon. I don't know if it's going to be enough but it's worth a try."

"Do you think.." Kyouhei paused "Your family will accept if in the future that you choose for yourself?"

"What do you mean?"

Kyouhei intensely stared in Sunako's eyes. How can he say it? Would he be betraying his masters for insinuating an idea in her head? But it is not about them. It's about her becoming happy and fulfilled in the future. Bold he asked. "If you choose someone else to love and spend the rest of your life with?"

The way he released the words was so gentle. As if he was shy to suggest the idea. Sunako smiled and not breaking eye contact with him answered. "If they see him equal or more than qualified I believe it won't be a problem." Sunako turned away from him to reach for a drying towel. "Father made it clear when he thought we were dating a year ago. I couldn't believe he gave away to you like that so easily. Of course it was just a mistake. We are not dating then." Sunako remained not looking at the boy. What she said was kind of embarrassing. "Hey, I just used that as an example, my family is not picky on social status. Don't get the wrong idea."

Kyouhei held Sunako's shoulder and pulled her turn around. He could feel his face burning. She also has a blush on her face. Both their breathing was ragged by intensity of aura they are exuding. He pulled her forward and enveloped her in his arms. He did not speak but indulged in the warmth they shared. He felt her relax and buried herself further in is arms. The male's height advantage only enabled her to hug his waist. At that point Kyouhei Takano made a decision. He wanted her. It cannot be certain since when. But right now there is no other thing he would ever want. He knows, he should be a man worthy of her. There is still has a long way to go, but today he swore silently to the girl in his arms. He will be a better man for her. Someone she can really on, somebody who will protect her, a man she can be proud of. This is going to help him push forward for rule number five. Know and understand the goal. Give it all you got to accomplish it.

"What has gotten into you Kyouhei?" Sunako whispered. She tried to slowly pull away. He was not yet ready to let go. He tightened his grip which made the girl gasp. "Just a little longer please." To achieve rule number five he has to triumph over rule number four. Damn this is going to be troublesome for a long haul.

The week passed by in a blink of an eye. Both he and Sunako were at the front gate of the training building. "Today is the day you answer Shoma Chou-nii right?" he nodded and kept silent. "I trust you with your decision." Sunako said encouragingly. He glanced at the girl who was also looking back at him. Smiling he replied "And I am thankful for your understanding, even if the odds are indefinite."

Author's note:

Thank you for keeping it up with this story. In the previous chapter I was not able to explain the nicknames Sunako gave the Nakashima men. It is based in on an article that I read that the Japanese called the hierarchy of brothers in this order: Chounan, Jinan and Sannan.

Then I added the Niisan which means older brother. So we have Chou-nii, Ji-nii and San-nii.

Thanks for reading and for those who review its boosts up my confidence every time. Until the next chapter.