CHAPTER SIXTY-FIVE
Christmas Market
Red Brick Warehouse
Yokohama, Japan
December 2, 2006
After going up to the Sky Garden near the top of the Landmark Tower, they walked to the nearby Nippon Maru, and then stopped in the kiddy section of Cosmo World. Bikky, Carol and Dafydd supervised Dani, Stefen, Kiyoshi and Tatsuya while they went on rides for a while. By the time they joined the rest of the group, Elena had already convinced Dee to take his fathers, grandmother and Dafydd on the Cosmo Wheel. Ryo's aunt said that they had to do one thing special with just them. The rest of the families will continue to take the four children on rides. After Maria assured Dee that she did not want to go on the high Ferris wheel, and it should not stop him, Ryo gave Dee a playful shove, which finally convinced him to go walking off with just his fathers, grandmother and twin brother.
During the time, Maria and Elina took charge of Darin and Ryoko. Momo, Elena and Rick went with the children to go on more rides. Bikky and Carol were allowed to go on a few rides for older kids and adults.
The truth was that Maria was glad for the break. She forgot that being on the go all day inside a building is much different than walking to various sites. Despite the moving walkway, once they got inside the Landmark Tower, they did a lot of walking, looking at the stores in the mall before going up to the Sky Garden. Elina agreed with Maria, which made Maria feel less her age. Despite Elina being on her feet all day, this was a different type of being on the go. And while she admitted to an adrenaline rush, it was nothing like the rush that carried her through a day in the emergency room. However, they both agreed to carry on and then take full advantage of a chance to sit down. The two women were enjoying themselves too much too come to a full stop.
When everyone regrouped, they went back across the street to the side the Landmark Tower was on. The stopped at the dock set next to the Landmark Tower, with shops and restaurants built into the former dock. They had seen it from the floor they entered the Landmark Tower from the moving walkway, and now were getting a different view. It was still too early in the afternoon for sunset to start, so they decided to move on toward the Intercontinental Hotel. The went in and out of Queens Square as they made their way, Dee and Ryo admitting they were still discovering what Queens Square had to offer. A stop was made for coffee, drinks and snacks in a coffee shop that had seats on a patio overlooking Cosmo World across the street and the dining terrace below. Maria ended up splitting a Japanese ice cream sundae with Elina. The sundae had soft serve vanilla and green tea ice cream. The bottom of the dish was layered with corn flakes. On the ice cream were pieces of melon, colored mochi balls and adzuki sauce. All topped off with fresh whipped cream. Rick, Dee, Dafydd, Saburo and Yoshio had sundaes that were a step up from the one Maria shared with Elina. Bikky and Carol settled for melon cream sodas – green melon soda with soft serve vanilla ice cream and topped with whipped cream. The children had ice cream cups and Elena was enjoying a green tea soft serve ice cream cone.
Darin and Ryoko seemed to be getting vocal about having to watch adults eat that day. Unfortunately, they did not have anything that they could give to the babies to explore. The mochi balls in the sundaes were much smaller than takoyaki and the adults agreed that it would be easy for one to slip into one of the tiny mouths. So favorite toys, along with a couple of new ones bought that day were given in hopes of keeping them busy.
At the Intercontinental Hotel, after looking around the public areas, the group made a short stop in the lobby to sit for a few minutes, before going onto the Pacifico Yokohama, which was a large exhibition and convention complex. They found an outdoor area where they were able to see the Yokohama Bay Bridge and everything in between. It was a beautiful setting for photos before they went to street level at Keyaki Dori, where the bus was waiting for them.
Their next destination wasn't far, but Dee admitted he didn't want to overwalk Maria. There would be enough walking about at the various attractions, so as long as they had the bus, it was best to cut out the walking to get to those attractions. As the bus entered the Shinko area, it went past the Cup Noodles Museum, but that was not one of the attractions that day. Dee did, however, promise Bikky that they would make it to the museum before going back to New York. If not, then that meant they would have to take a trip to Yokohama again soon.
Ryo was already talking about wanting to do a proper cherry blossom viewing in Japan. Sakura suggested they should make time to spend a couple of days in Tokyo and Nagoya, and Ryo had to agree with Dee's grandmother. Cherry Blossom viewing was a special time, so they definitely had to make sure Dee got to enjoy it with his family. That there would be two blossom viewing parties would be just fine with Ryo. Bikky had to agree. Besides, there were birthday and anniversaries in March that Dee and Ryo were hoping to make it to Nagoya for. Both Sakura's and Ryoichi's birthdays were in March, as well as Tomoko's. Of course that also meant Takahiro's and Isamu's birthdays were also in March. Saburo's and Kennosuke's birthday was in February, but so far, that trip was only for a few days, flying directly to Nagoya and then back to New York. There would be no going to Tokyo or Yokohama on that trip.
Dee and Ryo were also considering having a Shinto wedding and then party at the Park for their 1st anniversary to give Dee's family a chance to be part of the celebrations. How much time they would have to be in Nagoya would depend on how much time they could manage to get off from work. Dee and Ryo were hoping to have that worked out by the next weekend, so they could start making plans with Tomoko and Takahiro if there was going to be a wedding.
The bus stopped by the Red Brick Warehouse. With lights, the ride was just over ten minutes. The bus was going to stay there until they were ready to leave. The Red Brick Warehouse was what the name said. There were two old warehouses from the early 20th century that survived the Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 and World War II with only some damage. A few years ago, they were renovated and converted into a mall. Going inside, it wasn't like the other malls they had seen in Japan. The stores were more like small shops and stalls with most of the interior of the original buildings still intact. It reminded Dee a lot of the shops and stalls at Tsujiki Market, and even the Fulton Fish Market in New York, except there was no fresh fish being sold, but plenty of unique items along with clothes and even some typical tourist items. There was even a small food court.
Outside the buildings, the area was landscaped into a park. The Yokohama Bay surrounded the park on two sides and had beautiful views of the Yokohama skyline. It was also decorated with some holiday lights and Christmas trees. Looking away from the skyline, they were also able to view the Yokohama Bay Bridge in the distance, and the marine passenger terminal. Currently there was a cruise ship docked.
Saburo nudged Dee and pointed at it. "Imagine if one day that could be one of your ships there?"
Dee started to laugh. "I almost forgot about that."
"You really shouldn't," Yoshio said with concern.
"I know, Chichi. I'm still getting used to everything. I'm almost used to the money and the hotels, so next I'll move onto the cruise line," Dee said.
"Give the boy a break," Sakura said to her son and son-in-law. "The poor boy went from rags to riches in the blink of an eye, from what I heard. Then they come to Japan to discover they own that beautiful penthouse in Tokyo. And not long after, Daisuke discovers his twin brother, and everyone who comes with Dafydd."
Dee came over to hug Sakura. "I'm not complaining one bit about that part, Obāsan. I'm not even complaining about the money and the penthouse. After all, if we didn't have the money, we never would have made this trip."
"Thank goodness for money," Bikky exclaimed with feeling.
Dee paused for a moment and chuckled along with everyone else, then continued. "And besides Bikky getting to experience Japan, we all wouldn't be here right now."
"But you still need to take things slow. Realizing you have the family you have and getting to know most of us, I'll bet it's still settling in," Sakura said with an understanding smile.
Dee nodded. "It is, but at least I don't feel like it's a dream anymore."
"Can we add the trip we took with Ojiisan yesterday and what came from that meeting?" Dafydd asked. "I'm still in shock about that."
"Yeah, that still feels like a weird dream more than it actually happened," Dee admitted.
"Why?" Sakura asked. "Because your grandfather was being almost decent to you?"
Dee looked at his grandmother and started to laugh. With a wink, he said, "Yes, that's the most shocking part of the day."
Dafydd let out a snort but had to laugh too. Looking over to Mother, he said, "You might have noticed some lights in between the buildings here."
"We did," Elena remarked, "and you wouldn't let us go closer to investigate. That's more than some lights."
"It looks like there are lots of Christmas trees in there," Carol said. "There were some near where we passed to come over to this building."
Ryo started laughed. "Ken told us that they recently started something new here, and thought we'd enjoy it. Especially us Americans who celebrate Christmas. Let's go check it out now."
They took a path back to the buildings that went across the front. In between the two buildings, along with all the holiday lights were booths and clear tents. The very front had a gate that on the top read, "Christmas Market" in lights.
"This does look interesting," Maria said with wonder.
"I'm surprised it's here," Dee said, "but it looks like there's a lot of good stuff in that area."
Even more surprising as they walked around was when they discovered among the Japanese items and food being sold, the German sausage booth. It seemed to be very popular as it had the longest line. It was something the Americans could not pass up. A Christmas Market between two old but beautiful warehouses, and a booth among the many typical favorite Japanese street food selling German sausages while in Yokohama, Japan. The men had the women decide what they wanted, and then were sent to find tables for them inside the clear plastic tents, while the men stood on the line to get their food.
Dee gave the man behind the counter his order, Rick gave his, and then Dee had to laugh when he heard Rick make a muffled exclamation when Yoshio, Saburo and Dafydd gave their orders. They had ordered 3 of all the sausages and sides being sold, along with their own orders and the women's. Then they had Ryo and Bikky give their orders. Dee shook his head as Ryo explained to his uncle, "That is so everyone can try at least a bite of everything besides their own order. You should have seen them in Osaka."
"Yeah, but at least we did get to try everything Osaka had to offer," Dee said.
"That is true," Ryo had to agree.
"I just wish I could get a photo of Elena's face when we return with everything," Rick said with a laugh.
"I can take care of that," Ryo said. "Hey Biks," he called out. "Go on and find our group, and then get ready to take a photo of them when we come over with the food."
Bikky, having heard the ordering going on, started to laugh. Saburo turned to Bikky and handed him a tray with some of the orders. "Take this with you. You should be able to have time to put it down and take out your camera."
"Arigato gozaimasu, Ojiisan," Bikky said, and headed toward the tent they saw the other half of their group go into.
Bikky managed to get not only Elena's reaction, but Elina's and Maria's as well. When the group who flew in from New York for the long weekend had dinner the night they arrived in Tokyo, the restaurant offered set meals. Nobu ordered a couple of extra side dishes for everyone to share, but nothing like what Saburo, Yoshio, Dee, Ryo, Dafydd and Rick returned with. Each man had a tray piled with sausages, sauerkraut, potato pancakes, and other various sides and condiments. The three women who flew in from New York were shocked at what was set at the table. The women managed to secure a table and bring over a couple of extra chairs, but there still wasn't room for everyone to eat. Dee, Ryo and Dafydd offered to stand, having no problem eating while standing. Dafydd knew his fathers would have no problem either, since there are standing only places for quick meals all over Japan and Nagoya was no exception. His fathers would eat at those places for lunch several times a week, just as Dafydd would. Dee and Ryo explained how they would get hot dogs from a vendor cart or pizza and not sit while they ate. They also walked while they ate many times too, which is something taboo in Japan, but there was no doubt Dee and Ryo could stand and eat with the best of the Japanese.
They didn't have to stand long as the people sitting at the table next to them got up to leave. Dafydd moved fast to claim the table, and as Dee and Ryo took seats, Rick moved his chair so he did not have to sit away from a table. Before settling down, they moved the table and spread the trays between both tables. Yoshio decided to take Bikky and Carol on an expedition to get drinks for everyone.
After they finished eating, they walked around the Christmas Market a little more, posing for pictures with people dressed in outfits as cute animals, such as bears and rabbits, wearing Santa hats. There was also a Hello Kitty, and as they were leaving, they came across Little Twin Stars characters. Dee and Ryo had to get a photo with them, with Darin and Ryoko. The babies were wearing the hats that Dafydd and Momo had given them as gifts at Akira's party. The characters happily offered to hold the babies, Kiki holding Ryoko and Lala with Darin, and Dee and Ryo on each side. Then they took a photo without Dee and Ryo and thanked the characters before leaving.
The Christmas Market was a lot of fun, with all the various booths with food and Christmas items for sale. There was a skating rink, and of course, all the holiday decorations and holiday music including popular Japanese songs and many songs in English. It was definitely Christmas time in Japan, Dee mused. Now if only they had some snow.
As they made their way to the bus, Maria was saying how she wanted a print of the photos with Kiki and Lala to frame for her family wall in her room.
Ryo looked at Dee. "Well, I guess those photos are going on the list. Not only for Mother, but for our wall in the penthouse too."
"Definitely," Dee agreed. "But then we also have to pick out a few photos from this weekend too. And decide so we have time to get the prints and do some picture hanging around the penthouse."
"You decided to start personalizing?" Elena asked.
"Well, it is our penthouse now," Ryo replied. "We might be moving some of the furniture out and replace it with something we want. I don't know if that will be before or after we leave for New York. When we see the right pieces, we'll get it and know what we will be taking out of the penthouse."
"I am glad to see you are starting to make the penthouse your penthouse," Saburo said with a smile.
"You mean making it our home in Japan," Dee said. "I'm sorry it's not in Nagoya, but we're not passing up a gift like the penthouse. We didn't think that we actually own it as our place until we were told when we arrived at the hotel. And we do love it."
"As you should," Sakura stated. "It is a beautiful home for you and your family. And it is in Japan, and Nagoya is not far, especially by shinkansen."
The bus let them off at Landmark Tower. It was dark when they left the Christmas Market, so as they approached the dock once again, the entire half next to the Landmark Tower was lit up in blue and white lights that changed pattern. Sometimes the changes slowed down, keeping the current pattern for a minute before going to another. They took photos of the dock before going down the stairs into the dock, where they took more family photos with the gorgeous backdrop. At one point, the lights went out, pitching the dock in darkness for a few seconds, before a Christmas carol started to play and the light show began.
Mother stood with her hands to her chest and eyes wide as she watched the lightshow.
"This is gorgeous!" she exclaimed with delight. "I am glad we got to see this!"
"I want it on video," Carol said.
"Oh me, too," Dee said.
"I heard that there are two different light shows, every fifteen minutes," Saburo stated.
"So that means we'll hang out here for another half hour," Ryo said.
"Or an hour if we want to get videos from down here and from above," Bikky said.
"Rick and I can go up and get the video from up there, if that's okay," Elena said. "We'll just need someone to hang onto Dani and keep an eye on Stefen."
"I can do that," Elina offered.
"Mother, do you want to go up to watch the other show?" Dee asked.
"I think I want to stay here and be surrounded by the show," Mother replied.
"Anyone else want to join us above?" Rick asked.
"We'll meet you up there," Ryo said. "Thanks for covering from a different angle."
"Then we should walk along the Queens Towers to see the displays there now that it is dark," Saburo suggested.
"Are you good with that, Mom?" Dee asked.
"I want to see all the displays. This is lovely." She looked up at the buildings above all lit up in the night. "The skyline looks so vibrant and beautiful. I don't mind seeing it closer."
Dee slipped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. "This area wasn't so bright when I lived here. I'm glad I have a chance to show you what it's like now."
"I am too." She smiled up at him. "And we get to experience this with your fathers, too. That makes it extra special."
Dee looked over to Saburo and Yoshio, who were standing with them, holding Darin and Ryoko. "Yes, it really does."
Ryo cleared his throat. "I think I'm going to join my aunt and uncle after all." He smiled warmly at Dee and his family.
Carol and Elina was standing off to the side, with Carol pointing to what she was able from where they stood, also seeming to have the time of her life sharing the moment with her aunt. Dee realized what Ryo was up to and could not blame him.
"When we're ready, I'm going to see if there's a passage to an elevator or escalator up to the ground floor," Dee said. "I don't want Mother to be hobbling around when she gets back to taking care of the kiddies."
"Great idea, Dee. We'll wait for you," Ryo said, leaning over to kiss Dee's cheek. "Call if you get lost."
"Yeah, right," Dee commented. "Enjoy the time with your aunt and uncle."
Elina started to walk over to Rick and Elena to take over watching Dani. Ryo smiled at her. "Change of plans. I'm going to take them up with my aunt and uncle. We'll all meet up there when everyone is done with watching the light show from down here."
"Are you sure?" Elina asked.
"Definitely. Enjoy watching the light show with Carol," said Ryo, and took Dani's hand.
Elena let go of her daughter's other hand and smiled at Ryo. "Let's go then before the show starts."
Laytner-MacLean Penthouse
Roppongi Hills, Minato, Tokyo
Japan
December 3, 2006
Breakfast was almost done when Akira arrived with Nobu, Hoshi and Takehide. She had a soft insulated food bag packed with an ice pack.
"What have you got there, Obāsan?" Ryo asked as she placed the bag on the kitchen counter and started to open it.
She produced a covered ice cube tray and handed it to Ryo. "Baby food. I made it this morning before coming here. You can put this in your freezer, and you will have baby food for about a week. Just to give you a start."
Ryo took the cover off and saw each ice cube hole was three quarters filled with baby food. Dee came over to look at what Ryo held.
Pointing to the orange color, Akira explained, "This is carrot. The white is rice porridge, and then you have peach and apple. Freeze it and take out what you need to defrost for each feeding. This is to put in your freezer to use starting tomorrow." She then removed a couple of very small covered plastic containers. "This is for today. If I remember from the presents you received at the party, you should have dishes and spoons?"
Dee nodded. "Not only that, but my father made sure we picked up a couple of sets when we were in Akaya, but we decided on using the Little Twin Stars set that came in the bag from Dafydd and Momo."
Momo nudged Dafydd as they sat on a couch in the living room, listening to the conversation and laughed. "See? We spent our money well."
Dafydd nodded as he pulled his wife closer. "I have to admit that was money well spent."
Among the presents from Ryo's family at the party, most of the Little Twin Stars items were plenty of stuffed animals and various room décor, socks and onsies. Momo, in her shopping spree, picked up practical items as well as some clothes and plushies. It was items that Dafydd and Momo noticed were being used during Dee's and Ryo's time in Japan, while the items for room decoration were packed to go back to New York, when they planned to redo the twins' room's decor, using the gifts they received from their families.
"Breakfast is going to be served in a few minutes," Ryo said.
"I already had a good breakfast this morning," Takehide stated. "I am here only to get the luggage of our guests leaving today and take it to the airport. It would have already gone through customs and on the plane by the time you board the plane."
"Are you sure you don't have time for a little something, Uncle Takehide?" Ryo asked.
"I am good, but thank you, Ryo. Your grandmother and Nobu only had toast and coffee this morning, knowing there will be breakfast waiting. But thank you," Takehide stated with a smile.
"How does this work?" Dee asked.
"I will take the luggage to our company's receiving location at Haneda as Chikaiki freight, but then have it loaded onto the private Greenway flight. Unfortunately, we have no control of customs when you arrive in New York," Takehide replied.
"On that note, Dee and Ryo, next week, I suggest you start getting what you want to be shipped back to New York, and we will pick it up and make sure it gets shipped," Akira said. With a smile, she added, "Your belongings are planned to be the first delivery from JFK for Chikaiki's expanded service in New York. Ryo, your grandfather has set up a small office and a couple of trucks and got the paperwork and everything else required filed. The company is called Chikaiki East and you both are on the ownership. We anticipate the Japanese community going between New York and Japan to start using the company, and hopefully will eventually expand to anyone who wants delivery to and from the NY airports."
"We hope to slowly expand the service like we have in Japan for first New York and then in other cities in America, but that could take years," Nobu added.
"It's a start," Dee said. "If Americans realized just how convenient it is, and if contracts can be made with convenience stores, I think it would change how Americans travel."
"Oh yes," Takehide replied. "We need someone in New York to promote and establish relationships to expand the service. Franklin is going to have someone from Ryo's cousins in New York to head the new office, but it is also good to have someone Japanese and understand how things work here in order to attempt to start creating the same in New York. Starting early next year, Tsubasa has offered to take the position as consultant. Meaning Tsubasa and his family will be spending time between Japan and New York."
"It will not be a permanent move to New York," Akira explained, "but he will spend enough time that he can also see his sister often enough, as well as you and your family in New York. When they are in New York, Kumi expressed interest in assisting Emiko with her café."
"Keeping it all in the family," Ryo remarked with a grin. "I like that a lot."
"We are still looking for someone permanent to move to New York," Nobu stated. "It can be someone from the executive level of our company, or we are also open, as you said, keeping it in the family, and invite someone from the Fujioka family." He looked over to Sakura. "They do not have to know transportation and logistics since we have Tsubasa consulting, but they must be willing to move to New York as a permanent move."
"I will let our family know," Sakura stated. "If only I could convince Kayoko and Shiinichi to make the move from Chicago. It would be nice to have them close to Daisuke."
"Or someone from Kiyoko's family," Saburo added, of Hitoshi's daughter who still lived in San Francisco.
"Where does Kiyoko live?" Elena asked.
"San Francisco," Sakura replied. "She has two stepchildren, who are not Japanese, but since Kiyoko married Thomas, their father, Debbie and Scott has been to Japan many times. Even now, with families of their own, they go to Osaka to visit Hitoshi and Kyoshii when they can. They may not be Japanese, but they know Japan very well."
"Debbie married a Chinese-American, if I remember correctly," Dee commented about Thomas's daughter that Kiyoko adopted as her own and raised with Thomas.
"Yes, she did, but they have never been to China. Chin's great-grandparents have immigrated from China, but his grandparents and parents never saw China," Sakura explained.
"He is the first in his family to marry someone who is not at least part-Chinese," Saburo replied. "Kiyoko was born in America and considers herself Japanese-American. There is not much Japanese custom in her household. My father, of course, finds that disrespectful."
"No doubt," Dee commented. "I also know that while Kiyoko very fluent in Japanese, she is very American." He shrugged. "We bonded at the party. At least I know I'm not the only American Fujioka, despite what my grandfather says."
"I do not see Kiyoko moving from San Francisco unless they have no other choice," Sakura mentioned. "They love that city so much. They are living in the house that Hitoshi and Kyoshii lived in until they moved back to Japan. The house Kiyoko was born in. It's a beautiful Victorian with views of the bay."
"We don't know when, but once we get business going in New York, we are looking at California," Nobu said. "San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco has many Japanese who live or travel to these cities. We are considering starting in the Japanese markets in those cities."
"Like Mitsuwa?" Ryo asked. "I notice they have freight services to Japan in the Mitsuwa we go to."
"Exactly," Akira said. "We manage some of that freight on the Japanese side, but we want to eventually have that service on both sides. One day you might walk into that store and see the names Chikaiki and Greenways in the services shops."
"That would be fun," Dee said.
"I think we're ready to move the food to the patio and have breakfast," said Ryo. "Uncle Takehide, please join us. It's a Sunday and I know you don't have to work. Everyone is packed and ready to go, but we'll have to hold off breakfast until you have everything taken out of here and have a cold breakfast."
Takehide looked at Ryo while Nobu laughed. "Give it up, brother. Our nephew has a good point."
"I should have considered that," Takehide stated. "And I pride myself on logistics."
"That is okay, Takehide," Akira said to her son. "We were running late because of me. If we left when we planned to, there would have been time."
"It's been a while since my mother made baby food, and it took longer than she thought," Nobu explained. He looked at Dee's family. "Takehide is also willing to take anything you have needing to go to Nagoya. He can get it on this afternoon's flight to Nagoya and can be delivered tonight or tomorrow morning to your homes."
"That is most kind of you," Sakura stated with a slight bow of her head. "We appreciate it. We were going to leave our luggage at the front desk downstairs when we get ready to head out for today's sightseeing since they handle delivery."
"And use our competition?" Takehide remarked with a laugh. "Speaking of, Ryo, you need to correct that oversight."
"From what I understand, the Japanese hotels are getting new contracts with Chikaiki," Ryo said. "At least I think I read that in one of the reports we got from the Tokyo office on hotel conversion to L-M. All the hotels already had contracts with GPN, but some need to have service upgraded or expanded, especially the smaller ones."
With a smile, Dee said, "Even before we ran into Dafydd, our Asian division felt all hotels needed to have all their telecommunications aligned with the same packages and said GPN is the company to stick with."
"Meanwhile when Grandfather was asked about delivery services, he suggested getting all hotels in Japan with Chikaiki, and other Asian locations that have Chikaiki," Ryo said.
Sakura started to laugh. "Basically that means, Franklin MacLean still got GPN, just in Japan."
"I guess that's true," Saburo agreed. "Except not as a distributor."
"Of course, because of that unfortunate meeting my father had with your husband," Elena said to Sakura, "at first he almost was going to change telecommunication services to another company for the Japanese hotels."
"What stopped him?" Dee asked.
"Because GPN is the best, and he realized he did not want second best and came to the decision to keep it for the hotels already using GPN, and to change over any that didn't to GPN."
"I'm glad for that," Ryo said. "Otherwise it would have been awkward for Dee. Also, technically my grandfather doesn't have GPN anymore when he gifted the hotel chain to me and Dee."
"Yeah, no kidding about awkward," Dee agreed with a laugh. "But no one then knew I'm Ryoichi Fujioka's grandson." He laughed again. "How about we get breakfast out of the way, then we can deal with luggage and look forward to Darin's and Ryoko's first feeding."
"Dei speaks wisely," Akira commented.
It was a nice, clear morning and just a little cool. They set up the table under the pergola and put on the heating lamps just to keep any chill away as they ate. They allowed Mochi to roam and run about the terrace as they ate. That meant having a time keeping the four younger children at the table, since they wanted to play with the puppy.
"The view from here is just spectacular," Elena said as they ate. "I am so happy that this is home to you now. It's a beautiful home with amazing views of Tokyo."
"After all our observation deck viewing of Tokyo, I wonder why we really need to do it," Ryo commented with a laugh. "From the back patio, we can even see Mt. Fuji on clear days."
"I've been up Sky Tree twice now," said Dee. "And I think I'm good for a while unless we have more visitors who want to go up. I went for the novelty. It was new to me, and I wanted to say I did it."
"Me too," Ryo agreed. "Mori Tower's observation deck is the same, but there might be times we'll be up there for some special event or a pop-up restaurant that we want to go to."
"Tokyo Tower is a special place to me," Dee said. "So I will probably find myself going up to the observation decks again, but not just to view Tokyo. It's just a place I like to go to. But I agree, we do have a good enough view of Tokyo from here."
Ryo smiled at Dee. "You always did have a thing for heights, and this definitely beats the view from our apartment."
"Yes it does," Dee stated. "And it's a good thing because I have no idea what we'll end up with in New York. Chances are a townhouse will be our best bet for what we decided we need for our next home. Depending on the location, maybe the roof might have some views of the local area, but not much more." He shrugged. "Not that we really have any city views from our place now because there are so many other buildings the same height or higher. I just liked to sit at the window seat and look down at the street."
"But now when you're in Tokyo, you can see more than just the street," Mother said.
"I can't really see what's going on in the streets here because they're much further down but the Tokyo views make up for that," said Dee.
"Are you still thinking of getting a summer home?" Rick asked.
"Yes, we are," Ryo replied. "It'll be nice to have for a quick getaway in the summer and give the kids a place with a beach to enjoy. We can even stay there while working, because Grandfather said we could use the family yacht going to and from the city. There's a pier on the East River side that is a short walk to the new building our unit is moving to. And when we're not using it, we can make good money renting it. Not that we really need more money now, but still, we can use the money to pay off the house, and when it's paid off, cover property taxes."
With a grin, Dee added, "We might even be able to buy our own boat just in case the yacht is being used."
"You can afford to do that now," Elena pointed out. "Besides, the yacht is hardly in use these days. It's just that Father makes so much money, docking and maintenance fees is equal to eating out one night a week to normal people, so he doesn't feel it's eating up money he can't afford."
"And when it's in use by various family members, money is transferred from their personal accounts to pay for the usage expenses," Ryo said. "Grandfather was going to waive that for us, I think I convinced him that we would prefer to do that same. We probably have more family money in our personal accounts now than most of the others who use the yacht, so we should pay like everyone else."
The family continued to talk while having breakfast and enjoying the view from the penthouse's patio. When they were done eating, Ryo called for a luggage rack to be sent up, and Takehide took charge of the luggage to be taken to the airport.
Mother already had her suitcases packed by the time she came out of her room dressed for the day that morning. Rick and Elena, and Elina had checked out of the hotel before coming up to the penthouse, leaving their luggage with the front desk waiting for pick up. They arrived at the penthouse with just what they needed for the day. In Elena's and Rick's case, they had an extra carry-on packed with an extra change of clothes for Stefen and Dani, and some of Dani's toys to keep her amused, if needed. Both Stefen and Dani had little backpacks with them. Stefen had his Gameboy and some games, a cheap camera, a notebook and pens and pencils. Dani had a couple of her favorite toys she liked to keep close, including her favorite doll, a couple of coloring books and crayons. Elena made sure each child also had a book.
Sakura was also all packed except for what she needed for the day, her suitcase still in her room. Momo also had everything packed for her and her boys, but Dafydd still had a few things to put in his suitcase. Saburo and Yoshio also had a couple of items to get ready to go back to Nagoya. While Takehide got the suitcases that were ready down to the van he had parked in the hotel parking lot, Dafydd, Saburo and Yoshio finished their packing and were ready to turn it over when Takehide returned to the suite.
When Takehide left with the last of the luggage, there was still time until they were to feed Darin and Ryoko. Early that morning, Dee and Ryo had given the babies their bottles. While it would not be their last bottle feeding, it still felt like an important moment because of what their next meal would be, so they took photos of the feeding, and Bikky got it all on video.
Everyone decided on having another cup of coffee or tea on the patio. After Ryo sent a text to his grandmother to update her on when they planned to feed the babies, so his grandparents can get their computer set up for video conference, Ryo asked the family from New York, "Is there anything in particular you want to see today?"
"Not to say that I want Dee to take me shopping," Maria started, "but I would love to see the Ginza area. I did enjoy that area when I was here before."
"Oh yes, Ginza!" Elena exclaimed excited. "And yes to shopping please! We can hit up Mitsukoshi department store."
Rick sighed. "And have everything with us to the airport and go through customs. Probably more than what Takehide is taking from here."
Elena hit her husband. "Oh you!"
"Uncle Rick probably has a point," Ryo said with a laugh.
Dafydd had a pained look on his face. "There goes our savings," he commented, looking at Momo.
"Do I have to hit you too?" Momo asked. "If I see something while we're there, yes, I will buy it, but it will not break our bank account."
"We're still here," Yoshio stated. "So if you see anything, Momo, Saburo and I will be happy to pay for it. The same for Dafydd, Daisuke, Ryo and Bikky. Maria, we would also love to gift you with something to take back to New York. Something for you, if you will have. We are sending a shipment with plenty for your children at the orphanage."
Maria looked shocked. "What do you mean you are sending? I already received that lovely delivery the other week for the children. You already did enough."
"That was for your current location, Maria," Sakura explained. "We have set up a donation delivery from our stock for your use in the new building. This includes mattresses, bedding, samples from the new clothes line we are coming out with and many other things to help set up your new children's home. My husband and I have decided to also donate items for use in the Carrier home through GPN's Carrier Outreach program. Not only from us, but fundraising will be done for supplies to be continuously sent."
Even Dee looked gobsmacked. He was aware of the MacLeans planning to donate needed supplies to not only set up the Carrier home, but for use by those coming to the home. Dee and Ryo also planned to buy supplies to donate, including food. He knew his family intended to donate to the new Carrier home but was not aware of the fundraising. "This is going to help out so much," he stated, his voice choked up. "It's too much to believe."
The new home was city sanctioned by the Mayor's Office and the City of New York, and the city gave a large amount of money for set-up costs, but only was able to get a set amount allotted for the home to continue. The home was being set up as a charitable organization and needed donations to cover what the grants from the City of New York did not. Which was why Dee and Ryo looked for buildings to buy, and Franklin decided to also give money to the purchase to donate.
"I really want to say it's too much and we can't accept it," Maria said, in tears, "but it is so very needed. At the least, it would prevent Dee and Ryo from doing what I had once done and put all their money into the running of things."
"I admit that is one of the reasons my husband agreed to it," Sakura said, "but not the only reason. GPN started the Carrier Outreach program to assist any organization worldwide that helps Carriers. Even if Daisuke wasn't involved in this new home, there still would have been this donation and fundraising efforts done. The program works with many big businesses in Japan for money and supplies. The program already had been donating money to the City of New York for many years now. Except it did stop with your previous mayor because we discovered the money was being used for other reasons, but started up again when Mayor Blum took office, since one of her campaigning points were for more Carrier support. We knew the money would be used wisely, and we have been right."
"Mayor Hochley was on the Anti-Carrier side," Dee said. "I did notice that there was no push on Carrier hate crimes and did nothing to help the LGBT communities either. Things started to change when Sheila took office. We had more pressure from City Hall to close Carrier hate crimes with an arrest even before Carriers Inc decided to start killing Carriers."
Saburo had a silly grin on his face. "What are you going to tell your Lady Mayor that you now have an Emperor and Prime Minister on your side?"
Dee had to roll his eyes at his father's face and laughed. "She'll be shocked at first, and then happy. And then probably ask if Prime Minister Motogawa can knock some sense into our President's head to change things for the better for American Carriers."
"That does sound like Sheila Blum," Elena had to agree and laughed.
"Listening to the Prime Minister speak," Dafydd said, "I have a feeling that it's already on Shitafuji-sama's mind without asking on New York's mayor's behalf. He's probably already bending the Prime Minister's ear about it."
"Probably," Dee stated. "It sounded like that is what he would like to do, but it's all over my head since it's up to all the big political types in D.C. My job in this is more street level politics when not actually assisting Carriers involved in hate crimes."
"As long as someone is doing something," Yoshio said.
"That is very true." Sakura turned to look at Elina. "Please do not feel left out during our shopping spree today. Daisuke states that you are also family, so we wish to buy you something special to take back to New York with."
"You don't have to," Elina stated. "And I don't feel left out. I'm here, after all, and that is more than I could have hoped for. And everyone has been very kind in buying the small souvenirs I wanted while we were out Friday and yesterday."
"You should go back with a new outfit that you can only get in Ginza," Sakura said. "And some things to give to your co-workers when you return. I know Japanese present buying while traveling is different than America, but I also know Americans do buy some souvenirs for friends and close co-workers. Allow us to make sure you have something to give everyone that will really have them talking. We insist, so you have no choice."
Akira started to laugh. "I was also planning on making sure Elina has some nice things for herself and her friends to bring back with her."
"I'm so busy with work, that to be honest, Dee and Ryo are the ones I see the most on a regular basis. It's mostly Carol and I, and the parents of Carol's friends."
"You still have co-workers. Even if you do not have any you call friends, you still need to extend some Japanese courtesy returning from being in Japan," Akira stated. "And I'll bet you do have at least one or two that you are close to."
Elina blushed slightly. "Well, yes, there are a few that we have drinks with once in a while after work. Most times, by the time I'm leaving, I'm too tired to do anything but go home and check in on Carol, then get some sleep."
"I am glad that is all going to change," Maria said. "I look forward to having you at our complex."
"I am looking forward to it, as well," Elina said. "As much as I love running an emergency room, I have been feeling burnt out lately."
"Meaning it's time for a change," Yoshio said. "It sounds like you have been working as hard as most Japanese. All work and little time for much else. We sometimes are guilty, depending on the time of year, but normally in the Fujioka family, family comes first."
"It was after me and my siblings graduated high school that I remember my father starting to spend more hours at work than at home," Saburo said. "But we did not have to work extra hours to provide for our families either, so we were lucky. Otherwise, we would have been in the same situation as you, Elina. Do not feel bad for it. I can see you did it for love of your niece."
Elina smiled warmly. "She is my niece, but I feel like she's my daughter since she came to live with me."
Carol hugged her aunt. "I am glad we'll have more time to spend together but do not feel bad for working so hard. It is I who feels bad and so grateful. Thank you, Aunt Elina."
"I don't want you to feel bad, either," Elina said to Carol returning the hug.
"And don't feel bad for letting us all spoil you more today," Ryo said to both Elina and Carol.
"If you insist," said Elina. "Besides, thanks to more of your generosity, I only have a few more weeks of working in the ER. I'm really looking forward to my new position."
Just before they started to move back into the house, Nobu took out his phone and looked at it. He let out a strangled, excited gasp, almost jumping up from his seat.
"What is it?" Akira asked her son.
"I got notification that I got an email, and it's from TUBE Riders." He looked over at Dee, then Saburo and Dafydd. "It's an announcement that TUBE is doing a surprise mini-tour this month. They are playing, Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka."
"What?" Saburo exclaimed. He actually did jump up from his chair. "Where? When?"
Dee held his hands together in front of him and said, "Please tell me one of those shows are while we're still in Japan. I don't care which city it's in."
"I'll be with my brother," Dafydd said. "It's one of those places, you know," he said to Dee. "I always wanted to see TUBE with you."
Nobu nodded with a huge grin. "Two shows are," he replied to Dee. "They are playing Dolphin Arena in Nagoya on the 15th and Nippon Budokan on the 19th."
Ryo started to laugh as he hugged Dee. "Now that's a send-off of our Japan stay for you."
"And a reason to get the family flying to New York with us to come into Tokyo a couple of days earlier," Dee replied.
"You know what we were talking about last night, since we found out we have some of your family joining us on our flight to New York? I think we have to really do it now, if they can carve out the extra time," Ryo suggested.
"I was hoping we could anyway," Dee replied. "I've been thinking about it all morning, and I think it would be a lot of fun."
"What is that?" Saburo asked. "And please tell me that you can make another trip to Nagoya to see the show. Dolphin Arena is the gymnasium at Nagoya Castle. We can walk to and from the show."
Ryo took out his phone and looked at his planner. "The 15th is when we were planning on starting our last hurrah for this trip party, but we can make it the 16th." Looking at Dafydd and Momo, he asked, "I saw that most schools in Japan start winter vacation on the 18th. Is that the same for Tatsuya's and Kiyoshi's school?"
"Yes, it is," Momo said. "They start again on January 8th."
"That's the same day Bikky's starts his sophomore year," Ryo commented.
"Oh, that's wonderful," Momo said.
"Since it looks like we are going to New York, we do need to be back in Nagoya by the 6th and have time to get our boys ready for school," Dafydd said.
"What are you doing for the week before we leave for New York?" Dee asked.
"Hopefully seeing TUBE with you in Nagoya and Tokyo," Dafydd replied.
"So you're going to the show here too then?" Dee asked.
"Of course," Saburo exclaimed. "We all are. We can get rooms in this hotel, if you don't want a houseful of guests again."
"That's ridiculous, Papa," Dee remarked. "You're all staying here for the TUBE show until we leave for New York. Unfortunately, we don't have the room in our apartment to let you stay with us in New York, but there is room here."
"And that is something Dee and I plan to correct when looking for our new home, but for now, we'll have to put you up in a hotel in New York. We'll figure that out later, but for now, you are staying with us when you come back to Tokyo later this month," Ryo stated. "Dee and I decided we want a party to celebrate every wonderful thing that has happened since we arrived in Japan. At first we were thinking a gathering here with everyone going to New York and anyone else who can make it. But now we're thinking a ryokan in Hakone and make a weekend out of it."
"A whole ryokan!" Yoshio exclaimed. "That's going to cost you big money."
Everyone looked stunned at the announcement. "Are you sure you want to spend that much money?" Akira asked.
"How much did that party of yours cost, Obāsan?" Ryo asked. "Don't answer. We know." He gave his grandmother a grin. "We got the accounting reports from this hotel, including events in the ballroom and how much was made for each one. Believe me, even if what we are planning came out to that much, it will be well worth it if we can get everyone we want together for a special gathering as a thank you for everything to make this trip special. But we also got a notice from the L-M office that they are starting a boutique line, buying ryokans around Japan. One that was purchased around the time we arrived in Japan is a beautiful ryokan in Hakone. It's been closed for a while because the bank took it from the owners for non-payment. A young couple took on more than they were able to handle at the time, unfortunately for them. We were told that the reason that it was not getting enough guests to keep it going is not location or the facility itself, but management."
"The couple believed they were able to handle running a ryokan and made some poor choices," Dee added. "Hell, if it was up to just Ryo and I, we might make the same mistakes, but with the team we have at L-M Asia, we don't have to worry about it. Anyway, they were making some minor repairs, and changing out furniture in some of the rooms, oh, and cleaning the onsens right now. They project an opening in mid-February only just to get everything up to L-M compliance."
"Last night we got an email from L-M Asia corporate," Ryo said. "They want to start doing trial runs up to their soft opening. They assured us that they can be ready the weekend of the 15th, but now the 16th since we'll be in Nagoya on the 15th. We'll be the first group to stay there and see how operations are. And to have fun, of course."
"They also just hired on a kaiseki chef from Kyoto who has been looking for a chance to be an executive chef. He's already in Tokyo and hiring his kitchen crew, and willing to do the food that weekend. It will also be a trial run and see what he has to offer. He can also use it as a chance to fine tune his crew," said Dee. "So we'll have food. Anyway, last night we started thinking about inviting the family going to New York to join us, and some of Ryo's family. I'm also thinking of inviting Ken, Hide and Yuki and their families, since they were a part of this stay."
"Then on Monday, we can all come back to Tokyo," Ryo said.
"And see TUBE the next day," Nobu added with a grin.
Dafydd looked at Momo. "With our boys on winter vacation as of that Friday afternoon, we don't have to worry about them losing time from school. And we are definitely free because of that meeting we had on Friday morning."
"Oh? Does that mean Momo has agreed to run your team's forensic lab?" Dee asked.
"She did, and I already emailed Ojiisan about it. He said that her resignation from her current position will be handled officially as a request to transfer to an elite unit. We'll both be going into work tomorrow, but mostly to finish up anything we have open. We should be done by Wednesday and on Thursday start our break until we are back from New York," Dafydd explained. "At least that's the plan."
Yoshio looked at Saburo with a proud smile. "Both of our eldest are now heads of important Carrier units."
"Ever since Dafydd was removed from his rightful place in taking over the family when we lost Daisuke, I finally feel at peace with that decision," Saburo said. "We cannot get Daisuke and Dafydd to take over traditional family occupations, but I feel they are doing what they were meant to. It is as if they are taking over some of our family traditions. Our family has always been a leader in helping Carriers worldwide. Tomiji may still oversee the release of funding from the Carrier Outreach program when he becomes CEO of GPN, and money is very important to overcome hatred against Carriers, but it's going to be Dafydd and Daisuke who will be doing the most important work, by assuring that money is spent well. In these times, that will be our family's greatest legacy."
Both Dafydd and Dee were blushing slightly from Saburo's praise. As he spoke, Saburo exuded all the pride he felt in his firstborn twins. Tears came to both Saburo's and Yoshio's eyes as they held hands and smiled at Dee and Dafydd.
"I'm still getting used to having you both together again," Saburo said. He wiped his eyes. "And I thought I was over this wetness, but this is more than what was first promised to me when I discovered I was having twin boys. I hope you realize just what has been offered to the two of you. And not by just my father, but by the Emperor and Prime Minister. My heart is bursting with pride for you two."
"I just hope I can live up to the honor," Dafydd replied humbly. "But I will definitely do my best."
Dee looked just a tiny bit pale as he replied. "At first I was entrusted with our unit in New York by the mayor and knew I had to give my best. But now I have an Emperor and Prime Minister also looking at me. I sincerely hope I can live up to the task. Thankfully I have Ryo and a great support system in New York, along with Dafydd and now Momo."
"You'll do just fine," Yoshio assured him.
"Yes you will," Sakura said. "I am also proud of you two. My eldest grandsons. I still feel like I'm dreaming. Since I am coming to New York with you, am I also invited to this weekend?"
"Of course, you are, Obāsan," Dee said. "Everyone who is going to be on that plane is invited that weekend. I'm thinking of inviting Uncles Hitoshi and Kyoshii for the weekend, if they can make it."
"And of course, if they can, some of their family who wants to join us are invited," Ryo added. To his grandmother he said, "Obāsan, of course you are also invited. And you too, Uncle Nobu and Aunt Hoshi, Aunt Moriko and Uncle Takehide. Tsubasa and Kumi. We will also be asking some of our other cousins, like Risa, Keniichi and Aiko."
"Did I hear you are inviting your friends who were in Daigaku Dudes with you?" Sakura asked. "There are going to be others in our family who will be so jealous."
"Remember that when we were at Ken's house, we said that they will join me in Nagoya in a future trip and throw a party so we can do karaoke together," Dee said.
"That is true, but they will still be jealous until then," Sakura said with a laugh.
"We need to work out the schedule from Ayaka's birthday going forward," Saburo said. "By the time you are in Nagoya on Thursday, we will have a definite schedule, but you can count us in for the Hakone weekend. And the TUBE show in Tokyo." He clapped his hands together and laughed with glee. "I get to finally see TUBE with both my eldest boys. This makes me so happy!"
Nobu looked over at Ryo. "I suppose you are going, since Dee is?"
"He better be," Dee said. "Bikky and Carol, you too."
"I don't have a choice, so it's a good thing I want to go," Ryo replied.
"It's about time!" Nobu said, pumping his fist in the air. "Tsubasa will want to go. I have always wanted to have you join me and Tsubasa. I have a ticket agent that I use when we have visitors for our company, for entertainment while they are in Japan. I have also gotten concert tickets through them over the years. I am sure I am able to get tickets for the show in Tokyo, at least."
"I also have the same who gets tickets for Chiyoshi Akaya and GPN," Saburo said.
Dee had been texting since Nobu made the announcement and started to laugh. "Don't worry. I just got a text from Hide. He said don't worry about tickets. Just give me a number for each show and his partner can get the tickets for us. They are able to get tickets for anyone, anywhere in Japan and in large numbers if needed through the promotion company."
Nobu and Saburo both stared at Dee in disbelief. "Are you joking me?" Nobu asked.
"Don't tease like that," Saburo warned.
"I'm not teasing or joking," Dee said, laughing more. "We are good to go for both shows."
"My boy comes back in our lives, and he also brings tickets for TUBE," Saburo exclaimed in glee. "What more can a father ask for?"
Everyone laughed at Saburo.
"We have a lot to work out in the next few days," Yoshio said, "but we're going to make it all work, do not worry Daisuke and Ryo."
The group finally started to move back into the living room, Dee also bringing in Mochi. Once everyone was settled, Ryo said, "Bikky and Carol, you should get your bags packed for tomorrow. Once we go out for today, you won't have the time to do your packing."
"That's right," Nobu said. "You are going to come back to Kamakura tonight."
Maria looked surprised at that. "They are?" she asked, looking at Dee.
Dee smiled at his mother. "Yes, Mom. They are. Bikky, Carol, Darin and Ryoko are all going to spend the night with Ryo's grandmother, aunts and uncles. Ryo's aunts are taking Bikky and Carol to Nagano for the day tomorrow. And Obāsan is going watch Darin and Ryoko. She also has an appointment for them to get the monthly checkup they missed in November."
"Yes. It's the same doctor who Emiko and Tsubasa use for their children since they were born. I guess Emiko now has a doctor in New York City, but Tsubasa and Kumi have no intention of going to another doctor. He is very good," Nobu assured. "I'll be bringing all the children back Tuesday morning on the way to work," he further explained to Maria.
"And you're okay with this?" Maria asked, studying both Dee and Ryo.
Ryo nodded. "Yes. We are. Knowing who they are going to be with, I don't have a problem not having them in our sight for a day. And we're also fine with Obāsan taking Darin and Ryoko for their checkups."
"I don't know about when we're back in New York, but I can tell you that everyone in this room with us, Ryo and I trust 100% with, and know we will get our children back safe and sound," Dee said. "It's when it's time to start looking for a nanny that worries me."
"I keep telling you that you can leave Darin and Ryoko with me," Maria said. "I am putting together a team that if I can trust them with the children in the home, then my precious grandbabies will be safe too."
"There are going to be enough children to handle," Dee said. "However, if we still don't have a nanny by the time we go back to work, we do plan to alternate between you and Emiko until we do. We're actually looking for someone who can handle not only Darin and Ryoko but Rie and Shuuichi too and give Emiko a break while she's running her café."
"You're going to have a full day just the two of you," Akira said in amusement. "I wonder how you will spend it?"
"Not get out of bed for a while, for one," Dee said.
"Dee!" Ryo exclaimed, suddenly blushing like Dee hadn't seen for a while and making him laugh.
Then Dee realized that the rest of the family would probably think the same thing as Ryo and found himself blushing slightly. "I didn't mean just for, well… that! Okay, maybe some of it, but I was thinking it would be nice just to have a nice lazy slow day. We wouldn't miss out much just staying in bed for a while since there's a beautiful view of Tokyo from our room's windows. Then we can figure out what we can do for some of the day."
"Sounds like a lovely way to spend the day," Sakura stated. "You have been on the run for a while now, and taking a slow day is good."
"We did manage some down time at my grandmother's house when we got back from Nagoya," Ryo said. "It felt good. Then we went back out to do things, and that felt good again." He looked at Dee. "What are we going to do when everyone leaves New York in January?"
Dee shrugged. "I'm not sure. Look forward to the next trip, I suppose."
"Sounds right," Elena stated. "You're making me want to go back to traveling for stories again, but that's going to be hard with these two," she added, indicating Dani and Stefen who, with Kiyoshi and Tatsuya, were playing with Mochi. "And if I have to hear my two going on and on about getting a puppy after this, I'm going knock your two heads together," she said to Dee and Ryo.
Both Dee and Ryo pointed to Dafydd. "He started it by his dog having puppies, and offering one," Dee said.
"And then his sons decided we needed to take Mochi and sealed the deal," Ryo stated. "And I'm sure you don't want to hurt those two darling little boys, Aunt Elena."
"Hurt those two? Oh hell no!" Elena exclaimed. "However I will still go for you and Dee." With a wicked grin she added, "And Dafydd, you're not safe either, since you're Dee's brother. Welcome to the family."
Everyone laughed as Dafydd gulped, looking meekly at Elena.
"Don't let her scare you," Ryo said. "She only looks scary."
Elena shook her fist at Ryo. "You! You're really asking for it, aren't you?"
"I have been for several years now," Ryo quipped. Then to Dafydd, he said, "See? All bark, no bite."
Elena let out a huff and started to move toward Ryo, but Rick stopped her, enclosing her in a hug as he started to laugh. "Like you would really hit Ryo," Rick said in amusement. "But you can keep on threatening."
Dee and Ryo were laughing while Elena gave one last huff and returned her husband's hug.
Elina started to laugh with Carol. "At least we don't have our pup with us," Elina said when everyone looked at them.
"What pup?" Ryo asked.
"While we were out on Friday with Ayaka, she mentioned one of the other puppies seemed to take a liking to Carol, and how Carol needed to also have a puppy, since Ayaka is keeping one. She had pictures of Hanabi to show me," Elina said. She shrugged. "Since my life is settling down some with the new upcoming job, I figured why not. Carol and I are hopefully going to have a new addition to our family, if it is okay with you."
"Why okay with us?" Dee asked.
"Because I am going to have to take Hanabi home on the plane when we leave," Carol answered. "Plus we'll also have a second puppy here until we leave, from how things are being planned out."
Ryo started to smile as he looked at Carol and Elina. "I have no problem with it. If the two of you really want one of Michi's puppies, then I guess Mochi is going to have a travel companion on the flight to New York."
Carol's face brightened and she hugged Elina, who also started to smile happily. "Thank you," Carol said to Ryo. "We always talked about getting another dog after Moppet died the year after I moved in with Aunt Elina but never got around to it."
"I'm guess we were just waiting for the right one," Elina said. "The moment Ayaka showed me pictures of Hanabi, I knew we were going to take her if we were able to get the puppy to New York. So thank you."
"It's not an imposition, so no need to thank us," Ryo said. "Even if I might start getting concerned of Fujioka pups spreading through New York City," he teased, making everyone laugh.
Everyone got settled in the living room, while Bikky and Carol went to their room to pack for the next day.
Ryo looked up as Bikky came from his room. "Are you all packed now?" he asked.
"Yup. I got everything I need and all in one suitcase," Bikky said.
"That I can believe," Dee said. "It's Carol that worries me, considering how her wardrobe grew since we got here."
"She showed me all the clothes you bought her during this trip," Elina said. "I don't know what I'm going to do with you two but thank you so much. She just loves everything." She looked at Dee's family. "I have to thank you too because I know you also bought clothes and accessories for Carol."
"We enjoy spoiling Carol," Saburo said with a smile. "She is family now too."
With a laugh, Ryo said, "No problem. It was fun. But I'm afraid she's going to become the Harajuku Girl of New York when we get back."
"I'm sure that will be a title she'll wear proudly," Dee said amused. "Besides the clothes, she also has a famous Japanese idol as a friend now."
"Stop talking about yourself, Dee," Dafydd teased.
"Oh fu—for goodness sake, Dafydd!" Dee exclaimed.
"Good catch, darling," Maria said, grabbing onto Dee's earlobe.
"Don't Mom. I didn't say it," Dee pleaded.
Maria laughed and tugged his ear gently. "No you didn't."
Dee still put a protective hand over his ear once she let go. "Geez, I'll never be too old, will I?"
"You'll understand once your children are grown," Maria stated.
Heads around the room nodded in agreement.
"Speaking of children," Ryo said, standing up. "Dee and I are going to tackle the breakfast dishes and then I'm going to get on my laptop and get things set up with my grandparents in New York."
"Oh," Maria said looking at the time. "Time does fly when you're having fun. It is almost that time, isn't it?" She clasped her hands together and exclaimed, "I am so happy that I am able to be here for this. And you are blessed, Dee, to have not only me and Ryo's grandparents here, but your fathers, twin brother and grandmother."
"Oh, I know," Dee said. "Which is why once we realized everyone we are hosting this weekend, it seemed like the perfect time to do this. Actually near perfect. As close as it can get. Perfect would be if Ryo's grandparents were here instead of in New York."
"My mother said they would have been here if they didn't already have much planned this week including the Thanksgiving fundraiser, but you can make it up to them by allowing her and my father do their first feeding with them around."
"Deal!" Ryo said with a laugh.
