A/N: Still alive! Not dead! LOL
Apologies to the lovely readers of this fic. I was so down the past months and it's hard to get back to writing. My thanks to the peeps who messaged me privately, here and in twitter, and left a review asking an update of this fic. It's truly overwhelming knowing this fic is my favorite out of all my in-progress ones. Though I hope you can still remember this. LOL.
Hi to the peeps I met in twt. Wyn, Kylie and Nana. I hope you can still remember this. Hihihi.
To my lovely reviewers, Caro, Ghorl, kaedesendo711, 30D01, Addicted to SD and akiraismylover. Special shoutout to Lexann LOL. Your reviews frightened me so much HAHAHA. But thank you, I learned a lot, corrected some loopholes and it feels good seeing detailed reviews from time to time. Lovely.
Great days ahead lovelies. Chu.
Loooong chapter ahead.
Yawning. Eyes dozing off. Clearly a very tiring day for the hard-working, good-looking and hottest engineer of Tokyo. Good thing, he made it safe and sound to their unit's building. He hopped inside the elevator as it arrives. Taking steps further to the corner to allow his body to rest on the mirror wall. Eyes closed to acquire a bit of sleep while on his five-level ride. The bell sounded and he made it to his designated floor. He hopped out; fished out his keys from his coat's pocket as he heads to the unit he called home. Another suppressed yawn before pushing the key in, twist it then went inside.
"I'm home." he uttered a little louder even though a response wasn't expected for the co-owner of this unit is scheduled to be home very late that night.
"Welcome home."
The voice coming from the inside instantly awakens Sendoh's senses completely. He quickly removed his leather shoes and walked further inside only to find his lover sitting comfortably at their couch.
"Kaede? I thought you'll be late tonight." he said, confused. He removed and hanged his coat before settling on the empty space next to his boyfriend. He placed a hand on Rukawa's forehead to check his temperature. "You aren't sick either. What happened?"
Rukawa let out a heavy sigh before revealing his biggest new of the night. "I quit today."
"Quit?! Why?"
Another sigh before he continues. "There's an event today at the restaurant. A potential investor came in to dine along with his high-profile colleagues." he explained. "Remember the dish I've been trying for weeks?" Sendoh nodded. "It stood out and was well-praised."
Sendoh furrowed, still confused. "Isn't that a good thing?"
"It should be… but Chef Ro claimed it as his own."
"What?!"
"He took the credit and eventually the guests fall for it, giving all their applauses and compliments to the fraud."
Sendoh brushed his fingers through his strongly gel-ed hair, in awe about the unfaithful news from his lover. "That's absurd! What about your co-chefs? They should know the truth!"
He shook his head. "No one will go against him."
"Fuck! We should file a case! I'll let Kogure-san know." He brings out his phone to initiate an immediate action, but Rukawa held his hand. "He's a powerful man in my world, Akira. Finding a new job would be difficult for me if we mess this up."
Sendoh jaded, sympathy is on his lover. "I'm so sorry for what you've gone through, Kaede. You don't deserve this. And you are right, he's a dumb chef after all!"
Rukawa scoffed. "Aye. Thought I'll have a chance to excel my name considering I'm being trained by a big shot in the culinary field, but he's simply a total asshole."
Sendoh reached to cup his face and kissed his forehead. "With or without that Chef Dumb, I know my Kaede will make it. And when you do, kick his ass out of Tokyo!" Even with the laughable comment, Rukawa's expression didn't lightened. "Sorry Akira, I can't support financially for now." he said, referring to his share for their mortgage and other expenses.
Sendoh sends him his sweetest and assuring smile. "No need to worry about that part, Kaede. Mr. Licensed Engineer here will take care of you in the meantime." he expressed in confidence.
"I promise Akira... as soon as I can—"
The playful one quickly shut him by placing a finger on his lips. "Silence chef." he joshed. "Let's not add this to your current dilemma. Your only concern is to look for a better job that could see your full potential and helps you build your name, okay?"
But as an egoistic person, Rukawa can't stop feeling rueful. Feeling sorry about the fact that Akira is forced to shoulder all the responsibilities they shared for the past months. Thus, he has to rely on him until he found a better job.
He felt a squeeze on his hand and was greeted by the sweetest comforting smile of his lover. "Until you find a job worthy of your time Kaede, I'm offering myself as your sugar daddy in the meantime." A tease he threw to lift his lover's mood.
Rukawa smirked, "Ridiculous." he murmured then swayed off the hand holding his own.
"And sugar daddy hasn't received his welcome-home-kiss yet." Sendoh added. The younger smiled away and gave his lips a quick smooch. "Welcome home." he softly whispers.
The temporary sugar-daddy then stretches his back and arms in the air. "Ya know, Sugar daddy is very very tired today; I wonder what his little boyfriend can do for him?" Another tease, but meant to persuade the other. Hearing the intention, Rukawa played along and offered what comes to mind, "Hmm. Back massage?"
"Oooh. I think I'm going to love this sugar daddy privilege." he said, raising his brows twice. Without wasting this precious moment and before the younger changed his mind, he quickly took Rukawa's hand "Let's start tonight!" Then he stood off the couch and pulled Kaede with him, leading the way towards their bedroom.
"Akira, I have to cook dinner." Rukawa said.
Akira waved a hand to his back. "Nah. That can wait, my body can't. I demand a full-body massage, front to back, okay?"
"Tch." As ridiculous as it sounds, Rukawa goes with it. "Hard or mild?"
"Ha! With your incontrollable strength baby, I'll go with extra extra mild." he joked.
"Doaho."
Out the balcony, Sendoh decided to spend his few minutes of alone time. A peaceful moment to ponder things, while indulging himself with the serene night view of their condo-village. Watching people strolling around with dogs and somewhat partners down the middle park. Adding a bottle of beer at hand.
After the unwanted incidents this afternoon, he needs this. Badly needed this alone time to ponder what could've been avoided.
A deep sigh he sounded before taking another sip of his almost empty bottle.
For the last three weeks, all he did is to burn his self at work. Day 'til night, his laptop is his only companion. That's how he coped up with this thing of moving on.
And he was good.
At least for him he made a good praise-worthy progress. Of course, minus the dazing or staring at nowhere at times, but surely, keeping his distance to his ex-lover is a huge help. It wasn't that easy if being honest. Well, he loved the man for thirteen years so it should be understandable, right? But nevertheless, it was a promising good start.
But this day, however, endangers this progress… all because the ex-lover suddenly appears in front of their table.
"Ah. Fuck!" he muttered, ruffling the fallen strands on his forehead.
A single glimpse; A close gap between their arms; A sound of his voice were all it takes for him to surrender to this sleeping desire he buried three weeks ago. Especially… when their bodies touched during the game…
He slammed a palm on his forehead, slapping and slapping it.
Who's to blame? When he himself allowed it to happen! He had every chance to walk away, to distance himself, to transfer seats... and yet he stayed in his place, right beside the person he's trying to forget. More so, he even forced their bodies to touch, held his wrists and even initiate a two-worded conversation!
Ugh! Great moves to start a new beginning, eh?
A loud sigh before he drank his beer and gulped until the last drop. He placed the bottle down the table of his balcony then gripped on the railings, feeling the cool breeze of the evening openly caressing his face.
He shouldn't be like this. He needs to make him feel that whatever Rukawa has now is unfair! Promises were made, dreams were built, and he discarded it all by disappearing one night without leaving a care. And then he's back, showing no amount of guilt, making him feel like their thirteen-year relationship is nothing. And to think he got a new partner now…
Somehow that last thought parted his lips.
Well… it shouldn't be a concern now. They have parted ways and whatever Rukawa has now, may it be unfair or not for him, should not be a thing to be concerned about.
But…
There's this one question, relating to that same thought, that keeps running inside his head—ever since he held Rukawa's wrist.
The ring.
Yes. Where's the ring?
Why is he not wearing his ring? Did he forget it? But Rukawa's memory is sharp as a needle. He may have forgotten everyone's name, but not the things he values… especially if it symbolizes something important.
Or was it really important?
Ugh! He scratched his head over and over upon realizing another mistake of today.
What the hell is he thinking? Is he being hopeful again? Argh! Damn. With or without the ring, does it really matter?! If talking about the old Rukawa, who works as a sous chef, wearing a ring is unacceptable to him. The only reason why they didn't consider having this millennial thing called couple's ring. He always refers rings as nuisance to his work. And knowing Rukawa, he wouldn't accept anything that could jeopardize his goal.
In any case, why is he being problematic about this? Dammit. This alone-time is not really giving him peace so might as well go back to his daughter and end this father-only-time.
He grabbed the empty bottle and entered his unit, closing the sliding door and locking it. He marched to the kitchen and placed the bottle under the sink. It must be kept well-hidden for his kid will ask endless about it. He chuckled. Amara apparently, has this curse of curiosity and will surely asked multiple questions if not provided with a convincing answer. He stood and walked to the fridge, taking a tumbler filled with water then headed to their bedroom. Lights were switched off before he headed inside.
As he walked in, he was welcomed by his furious-looking baby girl, sitting by the bed, brows meeting in between with puckered lips as if sulking. Her short arms are crossed on her chest. Clearly letting him know that she is in furious mode.
Akira chuckled, amused by his daughter's quirkiness. He cleared his throat before his little one thinks he's laughing at her. "Amara, baby, why are you frowning there? What's going on?" he asked as he approached. He placed the tumbler at the bed side and sat next to his kid, wiggling the bed. "Why is my princess mad?" he asked, stroking the back of her hair. The lady then pouted even more and tightened her crossed arms. "I'm angry at Kawa-san."
Akira felt taken aback. Surely, they are not thinking of the same person at this hour, right? Ugh. Mere coincidence. "Angry at Kawa-san? Why?"
She released an arm and pointed a finger at her phone lying beside her. "He won't answer Amara."
Somehow, guilt is felt as he remembered his own words…
'Never answer any of my daughter's call…'
It's probably the reason why Rukawa is not answering his daughter's call. "Honey, why are you calling Kawa-san?" he asked. Her furious expression quickly changed to her angelic one as she turned to her father. "'Cause I want to greet Kawa-san 'goodnight' like Auntie and Taki-niisan. And Wowa and Mama." she stated, referring to her nightly routine of greeting everyone goodnight before going to sleep. It seems, Rukawa has earned a place on her list.
A sigh. "Honey, Kawa-san is a busy person, okay?"
"But Kawa-san said we will play again. But he never called Amara again."
Another sigh, it's truly hard to explain difficult things to a curious child such as his very own. "Honey, how about you take a sleep now? It's past your bedtime and you have school tomorrow too."
"But Papa…"
"Okay how about this. Let me text Kawa-san 'good night', okay?"
Amara paused to give it a thought. She took her phone beside her and handed to her father. "Do it now Papa. Pwease!" said by the daughter who only knows how to call people by pressing designated number. Apparently, Rukawa earned one.
Akira smiled, amused by his daughter's sheer tenacity. "Okay." He took her phone and opens the messaging app. Amara watches his every move as if memorizing. A better idea then came unto the father. "Actually, you can simply send him a voice message." He pressed and held down the mic button but lifted his thumb to prevent it from recording. "Wait. Just promise me, once you said good night to Kawa-san, you'll sleep, okay?"
Amara nodded her head eagerly. "Yes. Yes. Papa. Amara pwomised!"
He smiled. "Good girl." He pressed the mic button to start the recording, "Okay go." Amara excitedly pulled his hand and leaned her mouth closer to the phone. "Good night, Kawa-san! Sweet dweams. I love you." she uttered bubbly.
Akira scoffed, charmed by his own daughter. The little one then pushed the phone near his father's mouth, surprising him. "Papa, say goodnight to Kawa-san too."
He was stunned, "Ah no… I—"
"No? Why not?"
"It's… I don't need to honey. I mean—" Sendoh tried to reason out more to his kid who is obviously too smart to trick. With Amara you must be in detail about everything, and the answer has to sound as truthful as possible.
It took some time before Akira realized another mistake—the recording is still on-going! He panicked and instantly loses the phone from his grip. 'Ah shit.' he cursed in his thoughts. He immediately picked the phone and unfortunately, the voice message was accidentally sent! And before the attempt to unsend it, the recipient has already read it!
'Ah! Fuck!' he cursed inside. Anyhow, there's an agreement he imposed, and he knew Rukawa is true to his words. He will never respond. So, he placed the phone at the bed side. "Now. Now. You promise remember?"
Amara then crawled under the thick blanket with her bunny plush. The father fixed the blanket and secured his daughter. He mummed himself for a little while, watching his kid. "Baby, Papa is a little curious… why do you like Kawa-san?"
Amara looked at his father, blinking and blinking her eyes as if his question didn't sink in properly. Sendoh just squeezed his lips. "Never mind…I—"
"Kawa-san kissed Amara's head while sweeping."
Sendoh furrowed, baffled. "Sleeping? Ho-how?"
The little one explained further with a bit of re-enactment. "Kawa-san has white wings and kissed Amara's head while sweeping."
His lips parted in awe. It seems his daughter is talking about a dream. "You dreamt of Kawa-san?" Amara simply beamed. "Kawa-san is an angel!"
He gaped, trying to keep up with what he just heard. Does this mean Amara thought Rukawa is her guardian angel? Unsure how to reply to his girl's innocence so he just smiled on it. The thing with kids is that a good dream is mostly treated as reality. "Okay. Go to sleep my princess." he said, lowered his head to plant a kiss on her forehead. When he moved back, he noticed a strange smile on her daughter. He furrowed in confusion. "What? Why are you smiling there? Anything funny huh?" he teased and began tickling his kid. The young Sendoh showered the room with her adorable giggles. "Stop Papa."
Sendoh halted before the kid's energy fluctuates from laughter. "Then why are you smiling, huh?"
"Coz Kawa-san says Amara should always smile to Papa so Papa will always be happy."
The girl's answer shocked him to his core. "What?"
A yawn from Amara, eyes starting to drift off.
"Honey, what did you just say?"
Amara blinked her almost droopy eyes, "What Papa?"
"About Kawa-san, what did he tell you?" he repeated, eager to hear it again.
Amara's eyes are about to close, "Kawa-san says…" she began in slow whispers. "Amara should… smile… Papa… happy." And then fallen to her slumber. But to Sendoh, it really didn't have to be repeated, for what he heard is loud and clear.
The question is… Why?
Meanwhile…
"Okay go."
"Good night, Kawa-san! Sweet dweams. I love you. Papa, say goodnight to Kawa-san too."
"Ah no… I—"
"No? Why not?"
"It's… I don't need to, honey. I mean—"
"Are you shy, Papa?"
"No. I am not."
"Then why can't Papa say good night to Kawa-san?"
"Ah… Honey, there's a reason and—"
"What's the weason?"
"Uhmm, listen, I—" and it stops there.
The curve on his lips and the melted stares kept still as he listens to the voices repeatedly. Playing it over and over with number of times he never bothered to count.
An extremely busy afternoon for the A-Sen Builders company, preparing necessary documents for the presentation to be held at their own premise for their most important client, ES Corp. All because the presentation is not only for one executive assistant but for all the higher executives of the said company involved in this big hotel project.
The CEO stormed inside the meeting room and found Yukio, the engineers, and the lead architect, preparing all the necessary materials for their presentation. "Everything good guys?" he asked. His presence however, arched Yukio's brow. "You look ecstatic."
"Should I be not?" he rebutted but Yukio's stares turned even more suspicious. Sensing the meaning behind it, Sendoh simply tapped his shoulder. "Knock it off Yukio." He then snapped his fingers to get the attention of everyone in the room. "ES Corp will arrive in fifteen minutes everyone. Let's do our best, okay?" He gestured at the lead architect. "Let's pray our dearest Mikoto won't stutter at all." The team laughed. "I'll try my best for the company, sir."
"First of all, no sir." The team laughed. "And try your best not just for the company but to yourself. For whatever happens in here, good or good, you'll learn from it, okay?"
"Yes Sendoh." The lead architect uttered in confidence. Having a boss who values your advancement is totally rare in this world. "And don't worry, Yukio and I got your back."
Their attention was captured when the CEO's secretary enters the meeting room. "ES Corp. has arrived Sendoh."
"Oh, let them in please."
Out of all the positive things happening inside, Yukio couldn't stop narrowing his looks at Sendoh's back. His aura is kind of odd for some reason. Or was it because he has truly moved on from the brat? Regardless, with Rukawa still in the picture, it's hard to be complacent.
The ES Corp's representative has arrived, and each member was greeted by the CEO and the staffs by exchanging handshakes and pleasantries. Even the lovers from the past are all professional as they meet eye-to-eye.
The introduction and agenda of the meeting was initiated by the CEO himself and left the most important subject to his lead architect, presenting the scale model of the hotel project. Everyone is keen, and sometimes getting praised for the construction ideas presented. And the CEO is all too proud to see his people progressing on their own.
But what's skeptical about all this, is this one curiosity rising inside him every time Rukawa speaks. Intelligent, smart as he presented himself, but the way he was addressed by the higher executive clouded questions inside his mind. It may just for him for he is too observant as always, but every time these so-called executives imply an idea or utter a proposal, Sendoh kept noticing their subtle glances over the executive assistant. Especially, whenever the topic is focused on the hotel's restaurant—a part of Rukawa's previous profession. Or perhaps he's just overthinking things. It could probably because of what Sawakita says, wherein all Rukawa's decision will be considered his too.
And how is it possible that a known beautiful guy became even more beautiful with just an addition of eyeglasses...
Hmmm...
Wait! What?
The meeting was postponed for a fifteen-minute break after its first hour. Some excused for smoke, while others for a coffee or bathroom break… including Rukawa himself.
"I'm going to smoke." Yukio said as he stood. "You want to come, to stretch your legs?"
"Can't. I'm waiting for my daughter."
"Amara?"
Sendoh scoffed, "Why? Do I have another daughter I have to know about?" he mocked.
Yukio gave him a light punch on his shoulder. "Silly. So, Amara is coming today?"
"Yeah. Her mother will be off the country for weeks, so she'll be staying with me until they come back."
"Oh. Isn't that a good thing?"
"You know how much I longed for this."
Yukio smiled. "Yeah. Do you want me to buy something for Amara?"
He shook his head. "Nah., I got everything she needed."
"How about coffee?"
Sendoh shook his head. "No. I'm good."
"Well then, see you in fifteen." he said and left the room.
"You got the nerve to really show up?"
A voice from his back. Rukawa eyed the person through the reflection in the mirror and the sight almost turned his stomach upside down. He let out a sigh and continued washing his hands with the cold water flowing through. Another pathetic move from someone who'll take every open opportunity to confront him off Akira's view. "This project is my responsibility, if you still don't get that." he answered blankly.
"Tch. Only a fool would believe that."
He shook his hands to remove the droplets of water and reached for the squared tissue, taking a piece.
"But you know what? I learned few exceptional information about someone today…" He heard Yukio says from the same distance, but no desire to turn his head back to him. "Something about a brat I know." Yukio added, still he never turned. "This brat, apparently, worked from one job to another as soon as he landed his feet in America."
The message froze Rukawa in place.
Yukio began approaching as he speaks, "I heard, he works two to three jobs a day. Taking whichever opens its door for him. Fast food chain crew. Dishwasher. And even a cleaner in a five-star hotel."
Rukawa clenched his jaw, taking a swallow.
"What happened to the aspiring chef? How in the world did this egoistic ambitious chef landed on different jobs, accepting whatever bones were thrown at him." Yukio halted an arm length away from his back. "And then… one miraculous night, a heaven sent, an old man named Tetsu Sawakita found him in his poorest state." he continued in an overbearing tone. "A year later… Voila! He earned the executive assistant position." A mocking chuckle he let out as he adds more to his story. "It's a little suspicious don't you think? For someone with no experience in a firm, got an executive position a year later? The guy seems to have found a shortcut to have his way to the top, eh?"
Silence passed for some time before Rukawa straightened his back and showed himself in the mirror for Yukio to see. "I didn't know you are capable of hiring a private investigator, Miboshi. Is it obsession I am hearing?" He turned around and inwardly faced the silver-haired guy with the same expressionless face. A mocking smirk he formed in his face. "If you are so capable to do so, then you must have an idea of what I found out on that one incident that happened six years ago." He leaned a bit closer to whisper, "You don't want Sendoh to know that, won't you?"
Fear engulfs Yukio's face. "Wh—what do you…"
Rukawa gave out a smirk of victory as he walked past the other one. Yukio quickly turned around. "What do you mean Rukawa?!" But Rukawa never bothered to look back, "Rukawa! What the fuck do you mean?!" But Rukawa kept walking until he disappears.
The frightened one was left alone, with fists shaking in anger… or could be fear.
An ecstatic angelic aura invaded the A-Sen Builders' premise, running through the length of the office while waving at the people who stopped and greeted her charismatic presence.
And when the person she was looking for is found in one of the glass-wall room, she banged her little hands on the wall. "Papa!" she called in extreme energy. The father of the century excused himself from the people already inside, stood and stormed out of the room to greet his daughter. "Princess!" The lady climbed herself up to his father's arms. "I missed you so much my peanut!" He showered his little one with quick kisses on her cheeks. Amara giggled. "I missed you too Papa!"
"My! My! It's only been three days." Yumi said as she approached, holding her daughter's stroller and things. "Well, every second without my peanut is a year for me." he said and back to tickling his daughter by chomping more of her cheeks. Amara giggled again.
The mother pulled the stroller in front of Akira and placed the tote bag on top, "Okay. Here are her things and medications. You know all her schedule Akira, so just call me if you need anything, okay?"
"You know I will."
The mother turned to her daughter, "Honey, aren't you going to tell Papa your news?"
"News? What news?" The clueless father asked.
The young Sendoh took a pause with a beam on her face, then raised her right arm in the air, showing her latest achievement. "I got two stars Papa!"
"Oh wow! Congratulation peanut." he cheered then rub his face under his daughter's jaw to tickle her more. "Papa is proud and happy." he added, then tickle her more. "Papa that's too many." Amara says in between giggles.
"Since my princess got two stars, Papa will grant her two wishes."
"Two wishes? Like a genie?"
"Yes. Yes. Like a genie. So, what would be your first?"
Amara mulled for a second, "Swimming! Swimming! Swimming with everybody!" she cheered, jumping her form in her father's arm.
"Everybody?" The father rubbed his chin. "Hmmm. That'll hurt Papa's pocket but it's okay. I'll just sell my shares and then… swimming with everybody! Yey!" Sendoh teased. Yumi chuckled.
The young Sendoh then leaned on her father's ear and whispers, "Papa, I made cookies."
"Cookies? My princess is a baker now?"
The young lady extended her hand to her mother, asking for the surprise to be given. "Mama pwease." The mother then gave her the bag of cookies. "Chada!" Amara exulted as she proudly shows her father the cookies her mother baked wherein her only participation is pouring ingredients into the mixing bowl. Outside the white paper bag, Akira noticed a drawing of a head in crayons with spiky hair. "Who drew that?" he says in between his chuckles.
"Me!" Amara claimed. "This is for Papa." The father then tickled his daughter by rubbing his face on her baby's jaw. "Why spiky-hair huh? Are you teasing Papa?" Amara giggled adorably, pushing her father's face away. "Pwease stop Papa." She then opened the bag and took a piece. "Open mouth Papa." The father complied and chomped the whole cookies in. "Oh wow! This taste amazing! I think I have to enroll you in baking now." he joked.
Amara then extended a hand to his mother, whom the mother understood well and gave her another bag. "Oh. Another one for me?"
The young Sendoh shook her head and showed her the doodles to whom the baked cookies are dedicated to, which Akira easily recognize. He frowned. "Amara made cookies for Kawa-san too." she said in glee. Akira turned to the mother who simply shrugged her shoulders. Amara moves the bag forward to her father. "Papa, pwease give this to Kawa-san too. Pwease tell him, Amara is a good girl."
He parted his lips to find a better excuse to refuse his daughter, but he mummed his own self when his sight passes through her shoulder. The main subject appeared on his view who is currently conversing to one of his staff and seems to be asking for the location of the pantry. The staff accompanied Rukawa and thus, disappeared from his sight.
Looking back at his daughter's innocent smile and excitement to bond with her newfound friend, guilt rises inside him. Especially now that the man is considered as her guardian angel. And who is he to corrupt or tamper a kid's youthfulness? More so, why would he involve an innocent child over an adult's affair? Besides…
'Kawa-san says, Amara should always smile to Papa so Papa would be happy!'
Those words coming from Rukawa himself is still bothering him. Does it mean, Rukawa still cares for him?
Regardless, Amara found a friend in Rukawa and he considers himself as a cool dad who will support his child with whatever she desires. Besides, whatever may have happened in the past, good or bad, there's no doubt that Rukawa is still a good person. He smiled at his daughter, "Do you really like Kawa-san, Amara?"
The young lady bobbed her head eagerly. "Yes Papa. Amara loves Kawa-san."
He smiled, finally accepting a friendship the girl cherishes even before it began. It may feel uneasy for him… but if it won't harm his daughter, then he'll support it. "Then why don't you give these cookies to him yourself?" Amara brightens, "Weally Papa? Can I give this to Kawa-san?"
He nodded his head. "Yes." He then pointed at the pantry's door. "You see that door? I got a surprise for you there?"
"Supwise? Amara likes supwise!" Sendoh let out a scoff and brought his girl down on the ground. "Go on then." he said. Amara excitingly rushes to the pointed door. "Your daughter really likes Rukawa, huh?" Sendoh says.
And as he turned to the mother of his child, he was greeted by a teasing look. "Hmmm… Why am I not surprised?" Yumi says in mocking tone.
His brows furrowed, "What does that supposed to mean?"
Yumi surrendered her hands. "Not my business anymore Akira." she said.
Akira simply shakes his head, grinning.
"Akira, you have a copy of her schedule. She has an appointment with Dr. Souichiro next week."
His lips straightened. "Yeah. I know."
"Tell me if anything happens, okay?" Yumi said in worry. Sendoh sends him a forced smile, "Nothing will happen."
As Rukawa steps inside the pantry, his attention was easily captured by one dedicated space—a coffee nook. He smiled. Akira has always been a fan of coffee and believes that when a workplace offers good and rich coffee, hardworking people would never leave. "Doaho." he whispered. He walked further inside and went straight to the coffee nook. With the company's hospitality, guests were provided store bought coffee, but Rukawa refuses, insisting to make his own. But the actual reason is, he wants to see how coffee maniac the CEO has truly become… and he was not disappointed. The machineries are even high-end. "Idiot." he muttered.
He began by taking his selection of the coffee ground then play around with the espresso machine the way he knows how. He locked the portafilter and positioned a white ceramic glass underneath. And now… the waiting game.
"Kawa-san!"
He quickly turned after hearing the same angelic voice he thought he will never see again. "Amara." he uttered in a whisper, but his expression can never hide the excitement to see the kid once again.
The young lady dashed and jumped unto him, hugging a leg. "Kawa-san! Kawa-san!"
But with the message imposed by Sendoh the last time, this encounter can lead to conflicts. He crouched down to meet the little one and gave her a quick smile, "Hi Amara."
The lady excitingly handed the bag in pink stripes. "Look Kawa-san. Amara baked cookies for Kawa-san!" She pointed at the grumpy sketch she made. "See?" she grinned. Rukawa melted, bewitched by her charm once again. Without giving it a second thought, Rukawa accepted the bag. "Thank you, Amara."
All of a sudden, Amara's bubbly image turned to a frown. She reached for Rukawa's cheeks, sandwiching his face with her delicate palms. "Kawa-san, why you don't answer Amara?" she asked, referring to her phone calls. "Amara is a good girl." she added as if convincing him, she showed her stamp of big star in the back of her hand. "See? Teacher says Amara is intewigent." She pouted, "Does Kawa-san hates Amara?"
Rukawa gaped, feeling sorry for the kid. "No. Amara I—"
"It's Papa's fault."
A voice coming from the door was heard. Both Amara and Rukawa turned and found Sendoh in all smiles.
"Papa?"
Sendoh approached, then looked down to his kid. "Like I said Amara, Kawa-san is busy person. So, I told him not to answer your calls so we will not interrupt his work." he stated, a different version from reality but with same flow. "You don't want the boss to get mad at Kawa-san, right?"
"No! I don't want to!" Amara exclaimed.
Sendoh then slowly turned his stares to the other person in the room, who is also looking up at him. He softly smiled. "And he can answer your calls now Amara… well, only if he wants to." he said, indirectly implying that phone calls with his daughter is now permitted.
Rukawa gaped in surprise.
"Weally?!" Amara exulted, then turned to Rukawa whose attention is now on hers. "Kawa-san, can I call you again?"
Delighted by the news but he hides it with an expressionless face, "Of course, Amara." he murmured. The good thing about this, he has earned the chance to hear the sweet voice of this angel… even in distance.
Amara brightens, "Haa… Amara is happy!" Then threw her arms around his neck. "Papa, let's take Kawa-san home!" The inapprorpiate wish made Sendoh coughed aloud. He pressed his throat as if clearing the pathway. "Uhm, honey. Your mother is outside waiting for you. Please say goodbye to her."
"Okay Papa." Amara turned to Rukawa. "See you later, Kawa-san. I love you." Amara expressed in glee before leaving the adults alone.
Before the awkward alone moment prolongs, Rukawa stood and goes back to the coffee nook to get his cup so he can leave immediately. But the thought turns hopeless when he saw an empty cup instead! Due to the excitement he felt upon seeing the young Sendoh for the third time, he forgot to press the button to start the brewing! 'Fuck!' he cursed inside. Is it possible to leave with an empty cup? No! That would look pathetic and obvious. He sighed and just pressed the brewing button. Well, there's no other option but to stay and suffer more under this heavy atmosphere circling inside the room.
Meanwhile, Sendoh stood still, starting at Rukawa's back. They may have a moment of understanding a while ago, but the uncomfortable atmosphere will always be there especially when they are alone in the same roof. As much as his mind wants to do the right thing, to leave the room while he still can, his feet did otherwise… instead, he marched to the same counter then took one common mug with an A-Sen Builders logo from the top storage which he never really used.
Dull move. Awkward. Foolish. Yeah, he knows all that. But whatever, he needs coffee too. Duh!
And since he already allowed his feet to take over, it's better to come up with something to ease the heavy vibe of the room. He cleared his throat, cue to start a conversation. "Rukawa, about the other day, regarding my daughter… I apolo—"
"There's nothing to apologize." Rukawa immediately cuts him, couldn't bear to hear what Sendoh is about to say. Fist secretly forming on his side, off Akira's view. If there's one thing he detests the most about Sendoh's personality… is him trying to own every mistake in this world… even if he's clearly not at fault. "You did what you need to do."
Sendoh, a little surprised, but simply smiled on it.
Another drop of silence surrounds until Sendoh found another topic to open. "We have fresh milk… in the fridge." Sendoh says upon noticing the froth of Rukawa's espresso hasn't been started yet.
"Ah." He was indeed okay without the froth, but for some ridiculous reason, he lifted his face as if hinting he needed the milk. "Ah. Sorry where?" he asked, making little glances to his left.
"Ah here. Let me." Sendoh says and walked past Rukawa's back. The fridge, however, is just located next to Rukawa… too big to miss which Rukawa realizes and felt sorry for himself. Sendoh walked back to his previous spot and handed to box of fresh milk. "Here you go."
"Thanks." his quick appreciation as he took the box from Sendoh's hold. Thus, he started the frothing method.
Another awkward silence circles the two which Sendoh probably needed to remind him that he should start making his main excuse to stay—his own coffee! 'Shit.' he thought to himself. And since the other guy is still on the espresso machine, he decided to just use the instant ground to make a black coffee instead. He took the porcelain container with a coffee label on it, pouring half a teaspoon on his cup. Next step, of course, the sugar. But before he could even pour two teaspoons of sugar, Sendoh remembered something…
Rukawa hates too much sugar!
They are still considered estranged, yes. But the playful part of his brain can't help the thought of throwing a slight tease to the grumpy fox he used to annoy before. He began his act by clearing his throat and intentionally pour five teaspoon of sugar in his own cup.
Knocks were heard from the door, interrupting the silent room. Sendoh turned and found his secretary. "Sendoh, meeting is about to resume." Uekusa said, which he responded with a nod. And as he turned back to his overly sweet coffee mixture, a different mug, with a froth formed as leaf on top, was slid in front of him. The gesture urged his lips to stretch to a grin but tried his best not to show it. He calmed himself first before turning to the previous owner of the cup, as if asking for an explanation.
"Go. You can have this. I don't need to be on time." Rukawa said.
"Oh. No Rukawa. That's yours…"
"It's fine." he said.
"Are you sure?" He was answered when Rukawa took the mug Sendoh prepared for himself. "Go."
Feeling the triumphant success of his plan, Sendoh willingly took the steaming cup of the well-prepared latte. "Thank you Rukawa. It smells good." he said then left the room. When Rukawa felt alone, no second was wasted as he pours the despicable mixture down the sink. "Idiot." he muttered, not noticing the culprit chuckling in silent from the other side of the door.
"What's wrong?" Sendoh asked as he took the seat beside Yukio. "You look agitated, did something happen?"
"Ah no." Yukio quickly ran his palms on his face. "I was just… it's a bit hot outside."
Sendoh handed his handkerchief, seeing little sweats forming on his forehead. "Are you sure?" Yukio took the fabric given and wiped his face with it. "Yeah." he said and smiled at him. That's when he noticed the cup of coffee with the A-Sen Builder's logo printed on it. Clearly, the coffee is made inside the pantry. "I thought you don't want coffee?"
"Ah. Change of heart." he said. But Yukio still feels odd about it, especially with that fine leaf art on top of it. "And when did you learn how to make a latte?"
Sendoh gestured a finger and says, "Youtube?"
"Just now, huh?"
Sendoh simply winked with a clack of his tongue.
His sunny vibe added more to his suspicions. "You seem happy."
"Am I not allowed to be? Sheesh Yukio. Please." he chuckled. Still Yukio is feeling skeptical about it.
All the executives have entered the room, thus, the meeting resumed. Shortly after, Yukio noticed Rukawa leaving the pantry, which somehow confirms his intuition. He gritted, annoyed by his presence alone. And what does he know about six years ago? What does he mean by it? 'Dammit.' he swore in his thoughts.
Around the middle of the meeting, Yumi appeared behind the glass door waving a hand, implying she has to go. The CEO excused himself to fetch his kid. After some minutes, he returned with Amara on his side. "Excuse me ladies and gents, please allow me to introduce the heart, brain and soul of our company who started everything." he joked then turned to his kid. "Honey, why don't you introduce yourself?"
The young lady, without a hint of shyness, curtsied herself. "Hello everyone. My name is Sendoh Amara. I am four years old. My Papa is Sendoh Akira, and my mama is Okata Yumi. It is nice to meet you all." Sendoh proudly gestured a hand towards his kid, presenting with full pride. "The real boss of A-Sen Builders everyone."
As expected, every new person in the room were captured by her charms, cheering with applauses. "What an adorable kid you got there Sendoh-san." said by one of the executives.
"Got it all from her father, I guess?" he joked which everyone laughed at. "Unfortunately, I'm the mother and father today so I hope you don't mind if I let my kid join in."
"Not at all Sendoh-san." said by one executive. "The session is about to end anyway. We don't mind having an angel inside to lighten up the room."
"Thank you so much. And don't worry, the baby boss knows how to keep confidential matters." All laughed. "Honey, why don't you sit with Uncle Yukio for a while." he said, but the child has a mind of her own. So instead, she ran to the only person she is excited to bond with and climbed her form forcibly on Rukawa's lap, aweing everyone in the room, especially the father himself.
Rukawa took a swallow when all stares turned to him.
"My. My. Rukawa-san, it seems Sendoh-san's daughter has taken a liking of you." One lady executive says. "You must be good with kids?"
Not really agreeing on what was said, so he just stretched his lips to acknowledge her statement. Rukawa turned to the beaming girl on his lap, sends her a quick smile and ran a palm on her hair.
The father, who doesn't know how to react on what just happened, simply rubbed his nape. He marched towards his daughter to hand his phone, plugged with earphones, to busy herself.
With the positive aura brought by the kid, showering the whole room with purity, one area of the room was left in darkness. Hating the fact that the young girl he's been trying to earn affection from, still didn't treated him this way. Once again, the brat defeated him. He fisted.
Amara, the well-raised daughter who knows how to behave when her father is at work, busied herself watching videos with earphones plugged on her ears. Some time, she would turn to Rukawa only to show her adorable smile then back to the phone. As per the temporary baby-sitter, every second is worth to be cherished with this angelic kid in his arm. Glad he got another chance to be with her again… even for a short span of time.
After the closing remarks from the CEO and finalization of the scale model presented, the long meeting between the A-Sen Builders and ES Corp partnership was finally dismissed with the final schedule of the ground-breaking in place.
Witnessing people already tidying up, the young Sendoh leaned on Rukawa's ear to whisper. "Kawa-san, is the meeting finish?" Rukawa smiled and nodded, confirming. She brightens. "Can we go now and play?"
His lips parted but couldn't come up with the best response.
She frowned, "Why Kawa-san? Boss won't let you?" She then turned to the man next to her and tapped his arm. "Mister, are you Kawa-san's boss?" the girl asked, astounding Rukawa.
"Oh. Actually, he is my—" The man was silenced when Rukawa cleared his throat. Sensing the implication, he simply replied with "Yes darling. I'm his boss."
"Hi Boss." she greeted with a wave of a hand. "Can Kawa-san go now?" The question awed the whole room, especially the father. Did his daughter just excused Rukawa from one of the executives?
Uekusa hid his chuckles behind the documents he is holding, amused by the girl's innocence.
The man, who introduced himself as Rukawa's boss, wiped the sweat forming on his forehead. taking glances at Rukawa whom he can't decipher what he needed to say. "Ah—I guess, yes?"
"Haa! Thank you, boss." Then she delightfully turned to Rukawa, "Kawa-san. Boss is not mad anymore. Huwee, okay?"
Sendoh could only scratched the back of his head, with a grin forming on his lips. No doubt from whom the kid inherited this persistent attitude.
The ES Corp. representatives started leaving the room with the secretary escorting them to the entrance. And before Rukawa could finish packing his things, he saw Amara runs to her father who is standing by the door of the conference room. "Papa, let's go to the Gwass House with Kawa-san!"
The father was taken aback hearing an inappropriate request. "Ah. Honey, the Glass House is an hour away. We can't take Kawa-sa—"
"Why not? I want to show Kawa-san the Gwass House."
Sendoh rubbed his forehead, feeling uneasy all of a sudden. "Honey, we can't. Kawa-san is busy and—"
Amara started sobbing. "But Papa said Amara can wish anything 'cause teacher gave Amara two stars."
"Yes honey. I know. But—"
"Is Papa lying?"
"Lying? No honey…"
"Papa is lying..." The sobbing began. "Papa is lying to Amara!" she expressed at the sobbing worsened, feeling betrayed by her own father. "I hate Papa!" she yelled then run back to Rukawa and hugged a leg for comfort. And there he goes again, stuck in the same father-daughter-conflict situation. 'What in the world have I got myself into?' he dumbly thought to himself.
'Ah shit.' Sendoh thought, pinching the top of his nose bridge. The problem of a parent, however, is that when your child did her part of being an excellent student, you must do exactly what you promised her. Otherwise, bad parenting 101. And if Yumi is present right now, he'll definitely get a shot of her deadly stares. 'Argh!' Why did he have to promise the word anything? More so, why the ex of all people? And now, he's about to lose the Father of the Year award because of his own making.
Yukio, who is not pleased by what he is witnessing, butted in. "Hey Amara, how about I take you to the Glass House instead—"
"But my wish is Kawa-san. I want to see the Gwass House with Kawa-san!" she exclaimed in tears.
Sendoh let out a sigh. With Yukio in the room, who guards all his actions regarding the ex, the situation gets even harder for him to fix. But regaining his daughter's trust is more important than anything right now. With all the courage he got, he approached his daughter hugging his former lover's leg. He crouched down to meet his kid, "Baby, stay with Uncle Yukio here, okay? Kawa-san and I will talk outside."
Amara lifted her face off Rukawa's leg to peek at his father. Sendoh sends a comforting smile to his little one. "You will listen to Papa, won't you?" Hesitant at first, for she doesn't want to let go of the person he wants to be with today, but with the affection she has with his father, she complied.
Sendoh stood then gestured a hand to allow Rukawa to lead the way first. Rukawa gave the frowning kid a glance before leaving the room completely.
"Kawa-san…" Amara softly says, in between sobbing, watching him leave the room.
And before Sendoh could leave, "Akira!" As anticipated, Yukio is on his glares, pertaining on one thing. But he couldn't deal with him right now, so he simply ignored his friend's accusing stares and followed Rukawa outside.
When Sendoh is out, the two began heading towards the exit.
"I'm sorry for putting you in a tight situation there, Rukawa." Sendoh started, rubbing his nape, feeling a little uneasy. "My kid earned two stars today. So, I promised to grant her two wishes as her reward. And… you happened to be the second."
As they reached the main door, Sendoh opened the door himself as courtesy to his client. He accompanied Rukawa to the elevator and presses the down button himself.
"Thank you for today, Rukawa. It's a pleasure doing business with you… I mean, ES Corp." he said. "And don't mind my daughter, I'll deal with her—"
"You don't need to break your promise, Sendoh." Rukawa surprisingly said, aweing Sendoh. "Only if you agree—"
"Of course!" he exulted, surprising Rukawa and even his self. He swallowed and quickly calmed himself, "I mean, if you are free, you can come with us. Really, no pressure. No need to force yourself, I promise you. Amara is easy to convince…" he paused. "Actually no. But anyways, do you have your car with you?"
"No."
"Okay. Okay. I'll drive then."
"Okay."
"Okay."
"Okay."
Luckily, the elevator bell sounded before the Okay word became a song. "I'll wait in the lobby." Rukawa said.
"Yeah. Sounds good." Sendoh says and stood still, not knowing he's blocking the way.
"Will you move…"
Realizing a mistake, he immediately steps aside. "Oh right, sorry." And allowed Rukawa to enter the lift. Sendoh waved a hand, "See you." he said and earned a nod from Rukawa, "See you." before the elevator closes.
He breathe a heavy air out after a minute of standing still in front of the elevator. He stretches his back before he heads back to the office.
"Papa! Let's buy hotdog for Kawa-san, okay?" Amara says, referring to her favorite snack when visiting the said Glass House. "I'll look for seashells and show it to Kawa-san."
Sendoh chuckles. Excitement is all over his daughter the moment he breaks the biggest news of her day. "Does my princess hates me still?"
Amara held his hand. "No papa. I love my Papa so much."
Sendoh smiled, warmth by his kid. He continued packing his things when an accusing voice enters the room, "Really Akira? Having a date by the sea? Are you kidding me?" Sendoh turned back and found his friend in crossed arms. He sighed, "Just one day."
"One day, huh?"
Another heavy sigh. He can't blame the man. Yukio has witnessed everything he went through when Rukawa left him. That's why he understands why Yukio is guarding him a lot. Especially this past three weeks when he decided to move on with his life.
He gave him a tap on his shoulder, explaining more is senseless so he just leaves him with a smile.
Rukawa stood by the main entrance. Standing still, waiting for his ride to pick him up. He looked up at the sky, dazed at the mid-afternoon sky.
Staring…
Thinking deeply…
Watching how the clouds keep moving on their own... even without a certain destination.
A black SUV parked in front, interrupting his peace. The window of the second-row slides down, revealing the adorable passenger secured on her own seat. "Kawa-san! Come! Come!" she called, waving her hand.
Rukawa approached and about to open the back door, "No Kawa-san. Sit beside Papa pwease" Baffled but when no comment was heard from the driver's location, he just followed what the little one says.
The driver glanced at the rearview mirror and winked at his kid. Amara, in her own way, tried to wink back but ended up batting both her eyes.
The front passenger door has opened and Rukawa hopped in. The father greeted him with an appreciative smile, "Thank you for doing this, Rukawa. You saved my Father of the Year trophy." he joked. "Kidding aside, as a father, I sincerely appreciate it."
Rukawa simply bobbed his head before securing himself with a seatbelt.
"Okay. Ready?" Sendoh asked aloud for the daughter to hear.
"Ready!" Amara cheered. And the three began their one-hour road trip to the so-called Glass house.
Inside the vehicle, Amara, the main chitter-chatter of the group, entertained the quiet adults talking about everything she sets her eyes unto. It's as if she has stories about all the things in this world in her four years of existence. And as a good father, he responds with whatever he can to keep her company. It's a norm for them. After all, it's one of their father-daughter bonding moment.
Sendoh gave the front passenger a glance. "Aa Rukawa. You can sleep if you want to. It's an hour drive away."
"I'm fine." His quick answer, keeping his stares at the window. He can never miss this kind of special moment. If he can hear more of Akira and Amara's amusing conversation, or even just hearing their voices, he'll stay awake as much as he can.
The ride goes steady until a certain favorite was played on the radio. "Honey! Your jam!" Sendoh uttered in glee. Amara brightens hearing the familiar intro. Obviously, a favorite from the movie named Trolls.
"Go baby!" Sendoh cheered.
In her own made-up words, Amara began singing with the radio while dancing on her seat,
I got this feeling inside my bones,
It goes electric when I turn it on.
"Go Papa!" And as their favorite car-ride-bonding moment, the father didn't hesitate to join in.
And if you want it, inside your soul
Just open up your heart, let music take control
The passenger kept his focus outside, but can't stop smirking and smiling while listening to the weirdness of his two companions. Listening to them in silence is all but satisfying… until the father passed the mic to him, "Over to you Kawa-san."
His eyes widened in shock, turning to the driver whose taunting smirks are on him.
"Go Kawa-san!" Amara added by cheering from the back.
As anticipated, Rukawa kept his lips mummed, obviously refusing. Even if he knows the song or not, he will never sing! As his response, he sends his murderous glares to the driver.
"Aaw Kawa-san won't sing?" Sendoh taunted, making a face. He then turned to the rearview mirror. "Honey, what do we say to the joy-killers?"
In unison, the father and daughter hummed, "Boooooo!" But Amara stopped immediately, "No Papa. I won't boo Kawa-san. I love Kawa-san."
Sendoh laughed. "Sheesh. What did you do to my kid, Rukawa?" Another laugh. And when he turned to the passenger, he was greeted by the famous scowls as if asking 'What in the world are you teaching your kid?'
A loud laugh from the father when he realized what it meant. Bullying should never be tolerated, nor teach to a kid! "Don't worry. She is only allowed to do that when I'm around. You know, father-daughter secrets. So don't tell Yumi okay?" he chuckled.
Rukawa rolled his eyes and murmured inside his palm, "Jerk."
Sendoh heard, chuckling on it. "Language please."
"I said Jerky!" Rukawa retorted to a safer word. The father's loud laughter filled the vehicle.
"Jerky? I love Jerky!" Amara said in glee. Another laugh from the father over his daughter's innocent remarks while Rukawa tries his best controlling his chuckles inside his palm.
The mood between the ex-lovers has eased during the ride. It's as if the friendship they had… is slowing rekindling.
Nearing the destination, Rukawa noticed the view of the sea from the driver's side. This Glass House might be located near the sea. Shortly, Rukawa captured the sight of a particular house from a distance whose exterior complements Amara's description.
Shortly, they have reached their destination. Sendoh parked in front of the said glass house and quickly hopped out to help his daughter out.
The overly excited child pulled Rukawa's hand until they reached a certain spot where they can see the majestic view of the so-called glass house. "Kawa-san, look! Amara's Gwass House." Amara proudly claimed.
A modern designed house, standing on a secured spot with an overlooking view of the sea. Its exterior is a combination of black and wood, while the walls mostly made of glass. Gigantic and bewitching, perfect design to get a clear view of the sea upfront.
"Geez Amara." Akira uttered as he approached. "Stop saying it's your house. It's not our house. People who'll hear might misunderstand." Amara simply beamed at him.
A voice, calling from behind, captured their attention. "Sendoh-san."
"Ojisan!" Amara greeted in excitement as she runs towards the middle-aged man approaching them. The young lady jumped into the stranger's arm and allowed to be carried.
"Oda-san." Sendoh greeted and offered his hand. The man politely accepted. "It's been a while since I get a visit from this princess." he said, referring to the bubbly child in his arms. Amara giggled. "So what brings you here little one?"
"I want Kawa-san to see the gwass house."
"Kawa-san?" That's when he noticed the tall person standing behind Sendoh.
"Ah yes. Rukawa, this is Oda-san, the caretaker of this house." Sendoh says, introducing both to each other. "Oda-san, this is Rukawa."
The caretaker didn't gave his response immediately but just stared at Rukawa's face, as if examining him.
Rukawa interrupted his dazing by extending a hand. "Oda-san." The caretaker then gave out a welcoming smile, accepting the other's gesture. "Rukawa-san. It's nice to meet you."
"Pleasure." Rukawa respond. "Thank you for taking good care of the house. Amara is fond of it." he added.
Oda smiled his eyes. "Indeed. We call it Amara's Glass House as she wanted." he chuckled. "Anyways, why don't you let me prepare your snacks on your stay."
"Oh no need, Oda-san. Don't bother yourse—" But he was cut off when Amara accepted the deed by cheering for "Hotdog!"
Oda laughed at the girl's adorable reaction. "Sendoh-san. Your presence here warms this house, and I am thankful for it. I am pretty sure the owner will also feel the same once he finds out someone keeps visiting this house from time to time." He placed a hand on his chest, expressing his words sincerely. "So please consider this as a gratitude from the owner and yours truly."
The shy father just rubbed his nape. "I see. Well, all I can say is… Thank you, Oda-san." he said, bowing his form.
"Oji-san, can I see Coco?" Amara asked, referring to the caretaker's dog. "Of course, my dear." And they left the adults alone.
"Coco is Oda-san's dog by the way." Sendoh explained the missing information from the short conversation with the caretaker. As he turned, he found Rukawa at a distance, staring at the glass house.
"This is my company's third big project." Sendoh stated and stood next to Rukawa. "Amara calls it Glass House, but for me, this house more than its exterior." His lips softly curved. "This house saves me, my company…" A pause. "… and my Amara."
Rukawa slowly turned his head to him, watching as the wind from the sea dances around Sendoh, while staring deeply at the glass house. "I don't know if ES Corp is aware of this news, but my company suffered a million loss on our second year. A freak we trusted took it all away. Then there goes my budget." he chuckled.
"It was devastating. Darkest days of my company. I thought I would lose it, almost did… But one miraculous day came, and the heaven sent me an angel—Nomiya Nadeshiko. A name I will never forget."
"She said she's a friend of my father… and owed him big time. Odd as it sounds, but she offered to shoulder all the loss asking nothing in return. A form of gratitude to my late father as she claimed."
He shrugged. "Well. At first, I was hesitant. Mother couldn't even recognize her. But I was desperate to get my company back on track. So, even if it sounds dangerous, I accepted the offer. And... I never hear from her again."
A pause before he continues, "So my company is back on its feet. Little by little, we are getting by. The next dilemma though is… how can we win a big opportunity. We're a starting company, and adding the misfortune affecting most of our project, the credibility is at stake. And winning a project gets even more difficult."
"While I struggle to fight for my company, a more heart-breaking news came to me." Sendoh bit his lips. "Amara has a heart problem."
Sadness is felt on Sendoh's voice. Rukawa stayed mummed, allowing Sendoh to continue.
"Pfft, Imagine… A two-year old human already fighting for her life?" He snorted. "Seeing your toddler turning blue, rapid breathing, chest pumping in speed I can't describe. Sheesh, I can't even remember how I survived seeing my daughter suffering that much just to live."
"It's crushing my heart to pieces." he muttered in a frail whisper. "And all I can do is stand there next to her and hold her hand."
He breathe-in before he continues. "After tons of check-ups, jumping from one hospital to another, we ended up in one thing. My daughter needs an immediate open-heart surgery."
Sendoh's voice turned raspy. "Unfortunately for me, my savings were wiped out when I tried to save A-Sen by my own. So I'm spent. Helpless. I got nothing and left with one option... sell my company." A scoff. "No questions asked. No second thoughts. I am ready to give up everything to save my daughter. After all, she's my only reason to live."
"And when all hopes seemed lost, once again... a miracle came out of nowhere."
Rukawa noticed how Sendoh's expression softens as their eyes met. Sendoh then pointed at the glass house. "This house is the miracle I'm talking about. The very reason why my daughter and my company are alive today."
Sendoh turned his attention back to the house. "I don't know how miracle works but all I know is that this multi-million project deal came to me at the perfect time."
He smiled. "The initial payment, even before the project started, was enough to send my daughter in series of surgeries and keep my company steady. Like I said, perfect timing." A scoff. "It's as if the miracle knows when to come to save me, like it's watching over me from afar."
"Perhaps this is the reason why my daughter loves this house…" he smiled. "It's connected to her."
The mood suddenly lightens when Sendoh continued his story in a calmed and relaxed tone. "I haven't met the owner though." Sendoh says, shoving both his hands in his slack's pockets. "I want to thank him personally for choosing A-Sen Builders, because of him, I was able to save my life. I might actually fall to my knees just to express my sincere gratitude." He chuckled.
"Sadly, this house has always been empty even after the construction is over." he added. "Isolated, alone and lonely. No one lives here. I'm starting to think the owner might be dead but hopefully not." he joked. "So, I made a promise to myself. I will always visit this house that saved my life. Amara and I will smile at it… so it will feel alive… even from the outside."
Sendoh turned to Rukawa, "Sorry, I can't tour you inside. It's not an open house anymore." he said. "And I'm sorry for boring you with the detailed four years of my life." He laughed.
"Not at all." Rukawa says. Sendoh simply smiled.
"Papa!" Amara called from a distance. They both turned and saw the kid and the caretaker approaching, with a dog on a leash. "Papa, look! It's Coco." Amara says as she pointed at the dog she's fond with. Sendoh just ruffled her hair.
The caretaker handed the snacks and left them along with the dog.
"How about we eat this by the sea while watching the sunset?" Sendoh suggested which Amara agreed cheerfully.
The three sat at the seashore with Amara sitting in between. Good thing, the sea is calm at this hour, shone by the orange-colored sky. Sendoh feeds his daughter with her favorite hotdog sandwich filled with cheese and bacons. "Yummy." she turned to Rukawa. "Kawa-san, is it yummy?"
"Yes." But in the back of his mind... 'What's with this hotdog? Tasteless and not juicy at all. The cheese is watery while the bacon is too hard to even bite. Disgusting.' A push on his shoulder interrupted his curses over the food he is eating. Sendoh was all grinning at him. "I know what you're thinking."
He arched a brow. "What? I'm not saying anything."
"I can see the clouds above your head, flashing awful words about this." Sendoh taunted, pointing at the hotdog sandwich. A trait Rukawa developed during his university years wherein he silently criticized all his meals that are not made by him. Unfortunately for Sendoh, Rukawa is expressive when alone with him and will say whatever awful words he wanted to say about the food. The main reason why asking Rukawa on a date is quite difficult back then.
"Well…"
"Hey… respect my kid's choice, okay?" he said, chuckling.
"It's... it's yummy." A lie obviously. Sendoh laughed.
"Yey! Kawa-san eat well!" Amara says, thus, making her father laughed even more.
The three enjoyed their afternoon snack while watching the bright sunset, reflecting at entire view of the ocean.
"Amara, do you want to know something about your father?" Rukawa surprisingly opens. Sendoh furrowed his brows, mouth filled with food.
"Yes!" Amara cheered.
Rukawa picked up a stone and stood, "Your father… sucks at this!" Then threw the stone to the calm sea, skipping six times until it falls and disappears from their sight. Amara laughed and yelled. "Papa sucks!"
Sendoh swallowed the food inside his mouth in one go. "Hey! That's not true." He placed the sandwich down, picked up a stone and stood. "I'll show you." In his first try, as predicted by fox, the stone never skipped but plunged itself in the water. "Ah. The waves stopped it." His immediate excuse.
"Booooo!" Rukawa started which Amara copied, "Booooo!"
Sendoh chuckled, hands on hips. "What? You two are teaming up, huh?"
"Kawa-san do it again." Amara says.
Rukawa picked up another stone. "How many skips do you want, Amara?"
"Ten!"
Rukawa rubbed his chin, "That number is a curse but alright." Sendoh let out a chuckle, knowing the meaning behind his words. Rukawa threw the stone and earned four skips only. Sendoh took this opportunity for revenge, "Haaa! Kawa-san didn't make it. Kawa-san sucks!" he sang. Amara followed through, "Kawa-san sucks!"
"Booooo!" Sendoh added but his child didn't follow and glared at him instead. "Papa don't boo Kawa-san! I love Kawa-san."
"Oh really, you boo me and not Kawa-san?!" Sendoh asked in chuckles.
"Kawa-san is the winner. Papa is not." Amara taunted.
"Then I'll try again. This time I'm sure, I can make it." Sendoh tried for the second time and made two skips. "See?"
"Papa made it! Yey!" Amara cheered. "But Papa lost to Kawa-san. Kawa-san winner!"
Rukawa settled down beside Amara. "Yeah. Papa sucks." he mocked which Amara repeated. "Papa sucks!"
Sendoh laughed. "Hey, as you know, I lost on purpose all the time. Remember the time I favored you so you could just win on our ninth anniver—" An inappropriate subject was unconsciously brought up, forgetting the unresolved conflicts between them due to the blissful moment shared by the three. The ex-lovers turned silent, and Sendoh knows he ruined the moment.
Fortunately, the kid's innocence saved them both. Amara stood and picked up an item partly buried in the sand. "Kawa-san look, seashell!"
Rukawa smiled at her then stood, dusting off his pants. "I think we should go."
Sendoh pressed his lips, but nodded. "Yeah. Amara we should go." he said. The child run to her father, "Papa, can I say goodbye to Coco?" she said, pointing at Oda and Coco at a close distance.
"Sure. Go ahead." Sendoh said, watching her daughter run. "Careful okay?"
The ex-lovers are left alone once again. And to compensate the ruined moment between him and Rukawa, Sendoh took the courage to open another subject, "Amara is a dog lover—"
But Rukawa's next words cuts off his intention.
"Sendoh, I'm sorry."
He gaped, surprised by for the sudden apology he never expects that day. His head turns slowly to meet Rukawa's sincere stares, emphasized by the soft shade of the sunset.
"For all the things I did, the pain I've caused you, I'm sorry." Words sincerely spoken left him frozen in place.
"I don't expect you to forgive me. You don't have to. You have every reason to resent me. Hate me, I won't blame you. But you deserve an apology... And I sincerely do..."
TBC.
A/N: Badly written I know. Hihi. But I hope you get the point. Chu.
Thanks for reading!