A/N: This has been in a draft for a long time HAHA. Apologies, but life happens. :D
Wow! I'm happy to know that this fic is getting a lot of attention. I didn't expect. While I'm delighted, I feel scared at the same time. Coz you might get disappointed on how this story will go. So I don't know haha. But I'm happy to know this gained more readers.
Anyways, I will continue this fic and finish it no matter what. It's just, this is really hard to write. Coz I want to write this in a way readers would feel the emotions. Too bad, I'm not that kind of a writer. I'm just trying my very best.
I hope this chapter is worth the wait. But I could be wrong. So apologies in advance hehe
"So? What did Ikegami gave you?"
The A-Sen Builder's CEO paused his busy time of signing his afternoon paperworks upon hearing an out-of-the-blue question from the man sitting on the other side of his desk. By the thought of giving him his full CEO-attention, he placed the pen down, crossed his fingers on top of the pile of papers and turned his chin up to face the man in front. "The question is… Why in the world are you still here? Don't you have a job?" A usual insult he throws to his long-time best of the best of friends—Koshino.
The supposed-to-be insulted guy simply gave his mockery a beam, not really affected by the offensive remarks. "I'm a freelance programmer remember? I own my time." he proudly said while seated comfortably like a guest, sipping on his steaming hot brewed coffee usually served to every guests. "And who are you to complain? You should be thanking this job. You found yourself an afternoon babysitter to fetch your kid when you and your secretary can't!" he muttered and added more. "On top of that... for free. I repeat, a babysitter... for FREE!"
Sendoh simply jested a beam over his complaints, unaffected.
Koshino pouted and murmured aloud, "Can't believe a CEO can't afford a nanny."
Sendoh chuckled. "You know I can't trust my daughter to anyone. And besides, why would I pay you? You are her godfather, remember? You made an oath."
The babysitter rolled his eyes. "This godfather-thing is overly used, you cheapskate mother-father CEO!"
Sendoh laughed.
"Anyway, apart from this free rich coffee, the smile of my goddaughter is enough payment." he said, ending his complains right there. "And since you owe me tons of unpaid favors, how about you exchanged it with whatever you got from Ikegami?"
The topic disperse the smile on Sendoh's lips.
Ikegami, a dear friend of Sendoh back in high school, is now working as a private investigator. He hired him two weeks ago to seek information on what really happened to Rukawa the last six years.
He gave out a heavy sigh, obviously not satisfied in the little details he got. He slouched back on his swivel chair, took a pen and played it with his fingers. "Rukawa lived somewhere in the state of California."
The guest felt keen. "And?"
"And… he worked three to four jobs a day." he added.
Koshino felt odd about it, arching a brow. "So? We both know he's a hardworking guy—"
"—as a utility in some hotel… and some on fast-food chains."
The revelation turned Koshino in a complete shock. "What?!"
Not belittling these type of professions but they both know that the jobs mentioned are not par from what Rukawa has been chasing all his life. Adding to that, they never matched Rukawa's egotistic-self back in the days.
"Is that for real? Are we really talking about Rukawa Kaede? The only guy I know whose head-to-toe is spelled as E-G-O?"
Koshino's reaction is exactly the same as his own when Ikegami revealed the same story to him. With Rukawa's personality, the story is not something he imagines Rukawa would settle with.
"And not only that…" Sendoh took a pause before continuing the beyond-belief details. "He worked as a dish washer, cleaner… whatever you can think of that is far from the dream he built here with me—I mean, here… here in Japan."
Koshino is still in complete shock. "Wow. That was mind-blowing and very unrealistic. Any other?"
He shook his head as his response, implying there's nothing more to the story. "I asked Ikegami to investigate further." he said. "What I really want to know… is how he ended up in ES Corp."
Judging by how Rukawa is living right now, and the assumptions he gained after their last meet up, he is certain Rukawa is something more for ES Corp... especially his close relationship with Sawakita.
Koshino squeezed his lips. "Makes sense. He looks a biggie now to be honest."
"I'm positive he's somewhere at the peak of the tree."
Koshino simply shrugged. "So how's it going to be? You said you haven't seen him for the past weeks."
Sendoh let out an exasperating sigh. "I… I don't know." he said in his lowest disappointing tone. Because the last time he has seen Rukawa was that night back at his hotel. That unforgettable night where he got the chance to caress his face once again, and looked straight into those beautiful orbs he used to love for years.
But also the same night he was confronted by Sawakita in an unpleasant manner.
And with Rukawa's absence for the past weeks, even for business-related matters, the arrogant guy is the only possible reason.
"Ground-breaking is in three days. I'm certain Rukawa will be there."
"Yeah. And Sawakita…" Koshino reminded.
"Yeah... that mother-father egg-head."
They both laughed.
Koshino then caught a familiar envelope he hardly seen the past years, until today. "Oh. You're still getting this?" he asked and slides the envelope towards him. He even pulled the papers inside out without asking permission from the owner.
"You know you can ask permission first before taking my stuffs."
"When have I?" he responded while scrutinizing the now scattered papers on top of the desk.
Sendoh just lightly chuckled. Clearly used to the nosiest friend of his, who is very much updated with every single thing happening in his life. After all, he's his most-trusted friend.
"Sheesh. You didn't even bother looking at the new batch?" he said since Sendoh didn't even take a look what is inside the envelope. He picked one, "This one's cute. Can you introduce me to her instead? I am no CEO but I have tons of money."
"Tons of money? More like tax-evading money." Sendoh mocked, which Koshino just beamed at.
Apparently, the papers inside are pictures and profiles of women of his age. A ridiculous list to fill-in the candidates for Mrs. Sendoh Akira sent by his very own grandfather.
"Still onto this blind-dating thing?"
"Yeah. The old man is crazy."
"Man. What age is he stuck at? Is he still not convinced you like pretty boys more than pretty girls?" he said but corrected himself immediately, "I mean, pretty boy... not pretty boys." he teased.
Sendoh shot him a glare but with a smirk he couldn't hide, "Shut up." he mouthed.
Koshino lightly chuckled. "If I ever to meet your grandfather, I'll give him a Tinder app demo for free. Easier than wasting papers."
Sendoh chuckled. He then decided to return his attention back to signing papers.
"Speaking of the devil, if the 'envelope' is back... then does that mean the General knows Rukawa is back?"
Sendoh froze over the question. Reminding him of the unfortunate incident from the past...
Flashback
Under the warmth of a Saturday morning, Sendoh and his family, along with his lover, are on their way to visit a usual place where they spend a yearly short staycation.
As the two giant boys stroll side-by-side, walking behind Akira's mother and sister, the older one can't help but nagged about his lover's aberrant behavior. "Kaede, can you please stop working? We're on a vacation!" He purpose lowered his voice, raspy but in a controlled whisper so his mother won't hear. "Is that Chef Ro again?"
The younger one, who is busy tapping on his phone ever since they started their road trip, gave Sendoh an eye. He noticed the tone, clearly an annoyed Sendoh Akira. "This dumb chef is still complaining about this vacation. He keeps asking about the new menu—"
"I don't care!" he cuts him immediately, not in the mood to hear anything about his work. "Turn it off, please! All I'm asking is to free your two days. Can't I have that?"
That made Rukawa pouted away. He is very much aware why his lover is acting this way. Because of his extreme and busy schedule, the quality time between the two of has been gravely affected. Luckily for him, Sendoh is a considerate, patient and an understandable lover. And the only way he can thank him is favor this only time they can be on a vacation.
"Fine." He gave in last few taps then placed the device inside his pocket. "Done. Happy?"
"Good!" Sendoh says. "And I don't want to hear that ringing again, you got that?" Clearly a warning.
"Then I'll put it in silent." An inappropriate joke which was rewarded by a glare. "Joke!" he immediately repelled. "Just a joke." he repeated. But Sendoh didn't buy it. "Tch."
Rukawa pouted away and started complaining about the vacation inside his mind. Well to be clear, Rukawa is really looking forward to favor a quality time with his lover. Who wouldn't right?
But if we're talking about an out-of-town trip that was supposed to be adventurous and full of fun… but instead you are going to meet a relative… who is not just a mere relative but also a very important person of this country… then who wouldn't be panicking inside like this?!
Unfortunately for him, the only probable time for a two-days off landed on the same day as Akira and his family's yearly visit on his late father's hometown. Particularly, his grandfather's place!
Sad to say, he cannot use his work and his phone as an excuse to avoid any possible interaction with Akira's grandfather anymore, or else, Akira will never forgive him.
It's not like he fears the man he hasn't met before. But if we're talking about meeting a retired commander of an army of the entire nation… and you are likely dating his grandson… of course you'll be extremely distressed!
Well, as Akira instructed, as long as they act casually, his grandfather won't even get a single idea about their relationship. After all, this vacation is not to ask for his grandfather's blessing anyway. It is to simply tour him around his late father's magnificent hometown.
So, act like a rock and he'll be fine. Surely, he won't have a hard time doing that.
"Hey!" They heard and saw Akira's sister waving from afar with Akira's mother standing beside her. "Hurry up boys!"
XXXX
As expected, a traditional old Japanese house is where Akira's family lead him to. And it's not too surprising as well that the place is this enormous and picturesque. As Akira told him before, his grandfather has received enough wealth after his retirement. Apart from the land property, he invested a lot in their hometown, resulting for their name to own most of the businesses around the town. Eventually, the established town is, somehow, a legacy of his grandfather.
Who would've thought? This laid-back boy is actually filthy rich in this area! But he never really acknowledge it. For Sendoh always says, his grandfather is rich. And not them.
A middle-aged woman, who was introduced as the wife after his late grandmother, welcomed them as they arrived. She led them to a room where guests are usually accommodated.
For an obvious reason, Rukawa can feel the sweats inside his palms. It will be the first time he'll meet the so-called fearless man. Of course this feeling is natural… he's dating the grandson after all!
A bump on his side regained him back to the present from dazing. "Hey. We'll be okay." Akira whispered reassuringly.
That is right.
Two words to remember, 'act casual' and everything will be okay.
They arrived in front of two old-style Japanese sliding doors. As the woman of the house slid the doors open, the heavy and dangerous aura circulating inside the room was easily felt by Rukawa.
And right at the very center, is the General welcoming the family-guests with the stance of a soldier he had been.
Rukawa swallowed as he sees the man. One look, and you can already feel how fearsome he is. But despite the heavy atmosphere inside the room, Akira's sister broke it with a charming and child-like greeting. "Popsy!"
The grandfather broke his stance and slapped his forehead. "Anika, do you still not know how to behave like a proper woman?"
The youngest Sendoh laughed. "Pops. How can nee-chan be a proper woman? She can't even wash her own underwear!" Eventually, earning a punch on his shoulder. "Shut up!"
The old man simply sighed out. "You kids…"
"Now. Now, you two." The mother interrupted. "Greet your grandfather first."
Strangely, the heavy vibe in the room Rukawa felt a while ago completely dispersed by the same homey and welcoming atmosphere he felt the first time he took a visit at Sendoh's place. Rukawa then thought that a man may be known to fear nothing when serving a country… but an ordinary grandfather when it comes to his family.
That alone, made him remember his Nana.
The three Sendohs took their seats on the floor, facing the General. Rukawa followed their lead and took the seat next to Akira. After the family-guests gave out their greetings, the man of the house finally took notice of Rukawa's presence. "And who are you?"
The authoritarian tone straightened his back instantly. He immediately bowed his head to express his respect. "Rukawa Kaede, sir."
The room fell silent. Deadly stares locking at Rukawa's direction. Rukawa took a gulp, sensing the unwelcoming vibe towards him. Fortunately, the stares released him when the grandfather turned to the mother. "Akane. Didn't I say today is of family matter?"
"—I invited him pops." Akira answered instead. "He'll be on vacation with me."
Anika followed with, "Rukawa-kun is a family too, pops."
The somewhat scrutinizing look turned back to Rukawa again. It lasted for a minute until the grandfather loosened it. "Very well. You may stay."
Rukawa secretly blew in relief, finally freed from this intense stares. He bowed his head to send his appreciation.
Soon after, the family, including his self, spent some minutes of catching up. It was a good scene, and the atmosphere has lightened all throughout.
"By the way Akira," the grandfather interrupted. "Do you remember the Ogawa family?"
"Ogawa?" He mulled for a second, trying to recall a family name from the past. "Ah yeah. I remember. One of our neighbors who used to bring us that rich sashimi platter. I'll never forget." He laughed.
The grandfather bobbed his head. "Yeah. And do you remember their daughter?"
He pause to recall. "Hmm. Yeah. I remember used to play with her back then. She's a crybaby though." He chuckled.
For some reason, Rukawa felt a little strange about the topic being brought up. And he has this feeling where this is leading...
"That's right." the General confirmed. "I heard she's of beauty and a smart young woman. A business woman at a young age too. You should get to know her."
Predicting the outcome of this conversation, Akira's lips slowly turned thin.
"As you can see, I am getting older and older and seeing you continuing what I have started—"
"I refuse."
The young lad quickly put a stop where his grandfather is leading the conversation with.
His grandfather's brows met. "Stop fooling around, Akira. You'll be inheriting half of my wealth. You are at the right age too. You should be thinking of starting your own venture and getting married—"
"Stop!" The second time Akira interrupted his grandfather, with fists forming on top of his knees. "I know where you are going with this… so please stop!"
What his grandfather's intention is clear as the blue sky. Knowing that the said lady came from a prominent family of this town, having a close ties will surely keep his legacy alive.
"Stop fooling around, boy! You are carrying my name! It's time for you be responsible about it!"
The mother tried to interrupt, "Father, Akira doesn't need to go through this…" But was silenced by the General. "Silence!"
"I am not going to marry anyone as you please, grandfather." Akira repeated.
"Why? Is it because you already have someone?"
The boy stayed mummed over the question.
"Is she a girl of this town? Do I know her?"
His fist started forming, lips shaking, preventing himself to speak.
Rukawa simply sits in silent. It was obvious from the start what the retired General wanted for Akira's future. A future where he's totally out of the picture. But it's not really what concerns him. All he feels is pity over his lover. Seeing how his grandfather is selling him off just so he can fulfill his ambition.
"Or is it because that Ogawa lady is not something of your type? I can introduce you to people I know-"
"Stop grandfather. I am not interested." He darted his grandfather a stare full of determination. "As you see, Rukawa is not just a friend—"
Rukawa's eyes widened in complete shock. Abruptly tilting his head to Akira to stop his intention but it was already too late.
"Rukawa is my lover, grandfather. I am dating Rukawa Kaede, and I will not marry anyone if it's not him."
The sudden and out-of-the-blue revelation turned the room in complete awe. But the silent battle of stares between the two gentlemen didn't stop there. Akira's firm and confident stares against the General's blank ones.
It stayed like that for a little while when the General heaved out a sigh. "Very well. If that is your wish..."
Hearing a form of acceptance, Akira heaved out a sigh of relief. To be honest, he may look all confident outside, but the inside is extremely thumping out of nervousness.
But the hope of things turning positive ended when an amount of water passes through Akira's sight... towards his lover's own. Making Akira's eyes widen as he turned to Rukawa, "Kaede!"
All because the General, in gritting teeth, empties the glass or lukewarm water by splashinc it towards the face of the only stranger inside the room. "Get out of my house!"
The three Sendohs hurried to Rukawa to give their care but Rukawa simply stood from the ground, bowed his head and walked out without leaving a word, while his face is dripping wet.
The General gets even more annoyed when he witnessed how the three cares for the stranger more than his anger.
Akira was about to follow his lover when the General speaks.
"You said, you like basketball. I permitted." he began. "Going college, I asked you to follow my path as a soldier. You refused, as you've planned to take an Engineering course. I allowed it. I even sponsored everything you needed." A pause. "And all I get from you... is this? Is this how you pay me back?"
Akira let an amount of silence passed before standing completely from the ground. "I am grateful, grandfather." he muttered lowly, without looking at his grandfather.
"I will never forget all the things you did for me and our family." His fist formed before turning with great pride to his grandfather. "But... I've already found the future I wish to live with for the rest of my life, grandfather." He bowed half of his form, "I will pursue this. I will fight for this. With or without your blessing..."
He turned about and marched to exit himself.
"If you leave, you'll never get a single dime from me any longer, Akira!"
But that didn't prevent his grandson from leaving.
Rukawa rested himself at first bench he found, away from the toxic place he has ever been.
He turned his gaze over the peaceful garden to ponder the unpleasant scene that just happened, until he finally remembers his well-soaked face. He pulled his shirt up and wiped his face. He lightly shook his head to shake off the extra droplets on his fringes
Footsteps approaching were heard. No second guess, for there's only one person who will follow him. "Kaede!"
He lifted his chin up, until Sendoh finally stood in front of him with worry on his eyes. In one swift move, before Sendoh could speak another, he grabbed and crumpled his shirt. "The heck Akira?! What were you thinking?!" he cried out angrily.
His reaction was not surprised for Sendoh at all. "I'm sorry. I just—I know… It wasn't part of the plan. I said it out of the blue but—"
Rukawa pushed him off and freed his shirt. "Tsk."
With a heavy sigh, Sendoh crouched down and placed a hand on Rukawa's knees. "I'm sorry, okay? It's stupid, I know." he sincerely said. He lifted himself up and sat beside Rukawa. "I already hate introducing you as just a friend. And allowing you to hear his indecent proposals…"
"I don't care about that..."
"It matters to me!"
Rukawa breathed out. He mummed as he run his palms all over his face. "He doesn't have to know, Akira. I thought we've agreed..."
"I know. I know..." He bowed his head down, taking all the blame to himself. "Sorry for putting you in such mess."
"You know you will lose your inheritance."
"I don't care. I don't need it."
"He'll never accept us."
"I know."
"And you still said it."
"I know. I'm sorry. I really am..." Sendoh lifted his chin up and looked at nowhere. "I just—I just couldn't control myself when he keeps planning things on his own for myself. I'm not even interested to inherit whatever the fuck he possess."
He gave Rukawa a glance, still with those worried eyes. He reached and started caressing Rukawa's cheek with the back of his hand. "I'm sorry for what he did to you..."
Rukawa lightly pushed the hand away, "It's no big deal..."
The two young gentlemen allowed some moments to pass to cool the air down.
"What are you thinking?" Sendoh broke the silence first.
Rukawa leaned his back on the bench, crossed his legs and arms. "Thanking the heavens."
Sendoh felt strange over his response. "For what?"
The younger rubbed his chin as if thinking smart. "Thanking the heavens your grandfather picked the cold water instead of the hot tea beside it."
The sudden joke made Sendoh bursts into laugh, finally breaking the stressful atmosphere.
Rukawa simply smirked on his own joke.
Sendoh reached for Rukawa's head and collided the sides of their heads together. "Sorry for today, okay?" he whispered.
"It's okay."
Sendoh freed his head, stood and stretched his arms upward. "And since I'm not planning on returning to this place… How about we take a ride to see the beauty of my father's hometown?"
The stranger of the town simply shrugged his shoulders over the proposal. "Isn't that what we came here for?"
Sendoh smiled. "Yep. And we need a ride."
XXX
A wooden garage, located at the far end of his grandfather's vast property, is where Sendoh took him.
Luckily for the boys, it was open. No need to break-in.
Rukawa allowed Sendoh to lead the way inside. The older approached an enormous object covered by a thick fabric. In a swift move, Sendoh uncovered the mystery item. At first sight, Rukawa's jaw dropped. "Wow!" was his only word, uttered in a soft whisper. "Wow."
A black cruiser motorcycle is what Sendoh revealed unto his virgin eyes.
"Beautiful, right?" Sendoh proudly says.
Rukawa approached the ride, squatting down as if expertly examining the glorious built of the motorcycle. "Indeed."
"Pops says she'll be mine soon." Sendoh says. "Obviously, that won't be the case anymore… so before I lose this, how about we take her for a ride?"
From squatting, Rukawa abruptly stood, revealing his full-of-excitement reaction on the other side of the motorcycle. "Really?"
His cute reaction made Sendoh chuckled out. "Yep." Then he approached a metal cabinet hanging at a wooden post. He fetched out the key then walked back to the motorcycle and hopped in. "Hop in, princess. Your white knight will give you a ride."
"No. I'll drive."
"You wish. You don't have a license, mister."
Rukawa's brows furrowed. "As if you do."
He laughed. "I don't. But who would dare question the grandson of the General, eh?"
Rukawa tugged his upper lip up. "Fuck privilege." Sendoh laughed even more.
As instructed, the disappointed one just hopped in on the motorcycle, just behind his lover.
Sendoh started sounding the engine, getting ready for their adventure. "Hold onto something hard, my love. You wouldn't want to fall."
"Hold on to what? The already hard…" he said, referring to his abs. "… or the not-yet-hard?" he teased.
Sendoh glanced a little to his back with an amused smirk across his lips as he whispers, "Don't tease me Kaede... or you will find it difficult to sit on this…"
A scoff from the fox before snaking an arm around his lover's waist. "Go!"
With that, the two lovers began their journey around the beautiful town until the sky turns dark.
XXX
Five months later…
At the peak of the midnight hour, Rukawa woke up alone on their bed. He forced himself up and walked out of the bedroom to look for his supposedly bedmate.
And there he was, at the same spot whenever he is missing on his side. He breathed out heavily through his nose.
His presence was easily noticed by the other person. Sendoh immediately put down his pen and greeted his lover with his charming smile. "Hey... Why are you still up?"
"I should be the one asking you that..." he rebutted as he approached. His eyes landed on the blue sheets that are pinned at the drafting table. Other stuffs related to his lover's profession are also scattered on top of it. "Akira, aren't you taking too much part-time work lately?" he asked.
Since the first time Sendoh told him about his intention of accepting part-time job for some extra income, everything about his daily routine became unhealthy—his sleeps, eating habits, and even his routines like going to the gym or even just working out at home. All day, all night, whenever Sendoh is at home, he'll be on his drafting table.
Sendoh sat on the metal stool then rotate it to face his lover. He then pulled Rukawa and snaked his arms around his waist. He even buried his face on Rukawa's chest, closed his eyes for a bit of a rest. "Don't worry about it, Kaede. A little bit more and I'm done, okay?" he whispered reassuringly. Then he looked up to face his lover and gave him a sweet smile.
But Rukawa couldn't returned his lover's most charming asset. For what he sees all over his lover's face, are signs of over-worked. He cupped Sendoh's cheeks and ran his thumbs over the dark marks forming under his lover's eyes. Guilt is what he can only feel, "Am I… Am I affecting our finances?"
After quitting the only job where he was paid a highly substantial amount, he never found nor got accepted to another job of the same level. Resulting for him to accept whatever door opens for him just so he won't slack on his profession and of course… to not burden Akira over their everyday expenses.
Unfortunately, it wasn't enough. Far from what he can provide before. And now Akira is forced to side-hustle because of the misfortune on his career.
At least… that is what he presumes.
Sendoh frown in worry. "Of course not, Kaede. Don't take it that way." He loosened one arm from Rukawa's waist then tapped it on his working table, "I just don't want to decline an opportunity to earn extra money." he said.
Apparently, a part-lie on his behalf.
For these extra hustle are not really for the expenses alone, but to fulfill the remaining balance he needs to settle to emit Rukawa's first restaurant. A secret he's been keeping since the day he decided to fulfill his lover's ultimate dream alone. And he has to move quickly… to earn money faster so he can settle the balance prior its due.
But seeing his lover's blank expression, he still can sense he's feeling troubled. So he took the pale hands and gave them a kiss. Then he lifted his chin up and looked straightly into Rukawa's eyes as his thumbs caress the back of Rukawa's hands. "Okay. Let me promise you this. As soon as I finished all of these and received the checks, I'll stop side-hustling, okay?"
But that didn't took Rukawa's guilt across his face away. So he drew a cross on Rukawa's chest and says, "Cross my heart. I promise."
"Tch." his reaction over the cheesy move.
Sendoh chuckled. Then he forced Rukawa's body to turn around. "Until then, go back to sleep. I'll follow in a second. I promise." He pushed Rukawa's back lightly and even gave the butt a light slap, earning himself a glare from the other.
Sendoh simply beam at him. He gestured a hand to send his lover off. "Go on. Go back to sleep. I'll follow in a while. I promise."
But, the fox is yet convinced. So he thought of an idea instead.
Sendoh was about to go back to his work but still felt his lover's presence. He turned his head and found him oddly standing in front of their bedroom's door. "I promise. I'll follow." he repeated, with a light chuckle, amused by his lover's subtle persistence.
"You know what?" Rukawa speaks, emitting his plan.
He furrowed, "What?"
The younger, then, began massaging his jaw by one hand, and even making bulges from the insides of his cheek using his tongue. "I haven't practiced my mouth and jaw in a while. If I don't now, it might get lock soon—"
In no time, he was quickly scoop from the ground and carried to the bedroom as Sendoh shouted, "Fuck the check!"
End of flashback
Groundbreaking day.
An extremely important day for the ES Corp. and A-Sen Builders to finally begin the construction of the hotel project.
The CEO of A-Sen Builders arrived at the location with a tray of two cups of medium-size coffee on his hold.
As he roamed his eyes around, standing by the entrance, the place is evidently busy as it should be. People from the two companies are everywhere. Walking around and preparing for the first major event between the two companies.
But none of that actually concerns the CEO at this moment. For he is more keen to catch a glimpse of the only person he's been meaning to see on this special day.
His lips slowly turned to a smirk as he finally spotted the first person he's looking forward to interact with.
Uekusa, after noticing his boss' arrival, hurried to meet and greet him as soon as possible. But the CEO seem to not notice him approaching nor even heard his morning greeting. Instead, he simply watched Sendoh marched… and oddly, towards the ES Corp.'s tent.
At the ES Corp's tent, the CEO's assistance is all focused on his phone. Thumb keeps on tapping and tapping on the screen, continuously working while waiting for the groundbreaking ceremony to begin.
Out of nowhere, a hint of a rich aroma hits his nose followed by a light sound of a thud on the table where he's currently leaning his buttocks unto.
He gave the partly-mystery item an eye and found a medium-size coffee in a white cup. His gaze slowly turns up to meet the owner of the cup.
And there he is, gracing his morning with his most charming asset and a sweet whisper of, "Good morning."
Oddly, Rukawa felt his mouth gaped for a moment but was able to retract it quickly before he lose his control over his ex-lover's handsome-st and sweet-est presence.
"Coffee?" Sendoh asked.
For a moment, he lost words to say. He hid his panic by rubbing his nape and looking down at the cup instead. "You don't need to."
"I know. But I'd love to." he softly muttered, making Rukawa looked down to cup even more.
"Hn. Thanks." His short appreciation.
"Very well. I'll see you in a bit?"
The only time Rukawa was able to lift his chin up, and meet Sendoh eye-to-eye. He bobbed his head as his response.
One final quick smile from Sendoh before he turns and marches to his company's tent.
Rukawa watched him as he go. Keeping his eyes locked on Sendoh as he watched him mandating his people about the event, doing the big boss works, up until he takes his seat.
And the only time Rukawa remembers that he's staring at him, was whene Sendoh turned his way and flashes another sweet curve of his lips.
Rukawa immediately retrieved his head to the front, and turned to his phone, acting all busy.
And Sendoh is all there smirking, loving how his morning turned out to be even more beautiful.
Back on the ES Corp. tent, Rukawa finally gave the coffee an attention. A doodle is found on the cup that made a quick smirk on his lips. The sketch happens to be an image of a fox with the same dull face as his. "Doaho." he murmured:
The heartfelt moment, however, was easily broken by a voice coming from Rukawa's left.
"Having a great morning?"
A sarcasm was felt over the question. His lips lost the curve as he turned to the big boss of the ES Corp. "Eiji."
Needless to say, it was obvious by the sarcasm that Sawakita has definitely witnessed the interaction between him and his ex-lover.
"Anything I've missed?" Sawakita probed again.
Rukawa let out a sigh first before returning the sarcastic question with another sarcastic question. "You wouldn't… if you are on time."
Sawakita scoffed. "Sorry. My bad."
He walked past Rukawa and stood at his right. "I missed the alarm."
But to Rukawa's surprise, as well as the eyes from the other tent, the unconsumed cup of coffee fell to the ground, spilling all of its content.
All because Sawakita purposely hit the cup with a sway of his hand. "Oops. My bad again."
It was clear as the blue sky that the action was done on purpose… only to mock the man whose stares are still on their direction.
The culprit subtly sends the man a smirk who is simply looking at him with a straight face.
Rukawa felt the intention but kept tight-lipped.
To further damn the other guy, Sawakita placed a hand on the table, bent his body towards Rukawa and move his face the closest possible to whisper, "I can buy you dozens of expensive new taste, my dear. No need to go back to an old and cheap one." His eye even rolled to the side, passing Rukawa's shoulder.
But Sendoh kept looking at him, with a straight and blank face.
Feeling all the actions unnecessary… and childish, Rukawa stood straight and turned his head to Sawakita, "Prepare yourself. The groundbreaking is about to begin." he said and walked away, leaving Sawakita and his inappropriate behavior alone.
Sawakita made a smirk as he watched Rukawa go. And when he turned his head to the other tent, the other guy's straight and blank expression a while ago slowly pursed his lips, forming a smile of victory… as if mocking him.
The tables might have turned, but Sawakita is actually enjoying this silent battle between him as the guy of the present… versus the guy from the past.
XXX
The ground-breaking ceremony has started.
All executives involved in the project between the two companies lined up in a straight line, wearing safety helmets for the picture.
Sendoh noticed Rukawa is not in the line of ES Corp's representatives. He roamed his eyes and found the person on the tent, just looking straight at them.
"Unfortunately, the fox is a shy camera, Mr. MVP."
He turned to the voice beside him. "You should know that by now, right?"
For the sake of professionalism, Sendoh simply smiled.
"I didn't see the COO. Where is he?" Sawakita added, looking for Yukio.
"He's out of the country." Sendoh answered.
"Oh." His tone seems a hint of sarcasm. "Does that mean you are good with long distance relationship?"
Sendoh's brows furrowed.
Sawakita beamed. "Just kidding," he says and tapped Sendoh's back a few times. "Let's get the picture taken. Don't want my skin to burn under this heat."
Sendoh just kept his ground and acted professionally all the way.
The event is over and fulfilled. Everyone is busy packing up. And the CEO of A-Sen Builders took advantage of this time to get a hold of the ES Corp's pretty assistant.
"Hey." he hollered as approached Rukawa packing his things. Luckily, the arrogant guy is out-of-sight.
Rukawa turned to him, "Hey." he said back.
"I won't take much of your time. I know how busy you are." He took out a piece of a somewhat pink envelope and handed it to the man in front.
Rukawa looked at the card for a moment before taking it. He saw a smiley sticker securing the envelope. No wonder, who this came from. A quick smile before he slid his fingers to open the envelope and brought out the card.
It's an invitation card.
Filled with stickers of letters and adorable characters, showing Amara's bubbly character into her creation.
"Amara made this specially and only for you." Sendoh says.
As much as his heart is full as he reads through the little details of the adorable invitation, he feels disheartened at the same time. For he knows… he is not in-charge of decisions anymore.
"It's an out-of-town trip this Saturday with the usual gang. But I know you are a busy person… so only if you are free." Sendoh prepares himself to leave. "I'll see you then… in case you decide to come." he said before leaving Rukawa completely without waiting for his response.
No matter. I think they both know what Rukawa's response will be.
Disheartened, he slid the card back to the envelope and secured it in his bag.
"Funny, Amara is capable of writing now?" A voice coming from behind. No need to turn for he's aware that it can only be one.
"Stickers." His quick rebuttal.
"Oh. My bad." he said.
"Is it necessary to eavesdrop all the time, Eiji?"
"Eaves-" he laughed. "Don't be a meanie, K. I just happen to hear you guys." Another laugh as he walks past Rukawa, heading towards the exit of the event.
He halted after a few steps, and turned to face Rukawa, hands tucked inside his pockets. "You should know by now, what my answer to that." A smile. "Add a 'sorry' at the very end. It'll make it sound more sincere." Then Sawakita left completely.
Rukawa stood for an amount of time, thinking... pondering deeply… until all of a sudden, his feet decided to move on their own. Running to follow Sawakita towards the exit.
He turned from left to right and found Sawakita standing in the front of his car, just by the opened passenger door.
It's as if he's waiting for him to come before he gets in.
"One night."
He heard Sawakita says.
Sawakita then turned to face him, expressionless. "One night, Kaede. Treat it as your last. I won't wait for another day." His final words before hopping inside his car until it sped up.
And Rukawa just stood there, watching the car disappeared from his sight.
XXX
Sawakita, on the other hand, never took his eyes off the rearview mirror, watching how Rukawa slowly disappears from his only view.
Everything… is out of his will. Out of his plan… out of his personality…
But… is it wrong to be selfish for once in your life?
With those eyes, he is sure Rukawa is ready to beg him… to beg for a final chance to be with the only person who holds his heart…
Something he couldn't bear to see. Nor even hear…
He gritted his teeth, forming a fist. Controlling this hatred building inside him.
He should've stayed behind…
He shouldn't have run to follow him…
He shouldn't have shown those eyes ready to plead…
So he wouldn't be hurting like this…
Time passes slowly the following days… until Friday night finally came.
His things are neatly placed on top of his bed, waiting to get packed.
And he is there, sitting by the end of his bed, rubbing his hands together… pondering if granting the invitation is the best thing to do.
Either way, whatever he choses, it will always be a form of a selfish act.
Perhaps, that's who he really is.
Self-centered from the beginning. Self-serving towards the end.
But if you got this only chance to be with the people you love…
To have this last chance to be with the only person who holds your heart…
Is doing a selfish act for the last time… still too much?
Flashback (Six years ago…)
An extremely bad day for Engr. Sendoh Akira.
Tired and disappointed as he carried this heavy feeling while marching through the hallway towards their unit.
He stood in front of their unit's door for a moment, trying to compose himself. To keep his self together before his troubles at work can add up to Rukawa's current dilemma.
He enclosed his face with his palms and rubbed them to give more comfort to this feeling drowned in too much disappointment. "Fuck." he muttered.
All because the promotion, he's been longing for the past months, was announced today. Sadly… he didn't make it. "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck." he lowly muttered.
He was working so hard to get this promotion. Everyone is also rooting for him, including Yukio who's the first in line to cheer for him the most. He is the outstanding one. The best candidate as what his manager would always say. Everyone believes he'll be the chosen one… sadly, due to his poor performance for the last two months, he didn't reached the finish line.
Absentees and tardiness. Lack of coordination. Inattentiveness. Always distracted. All of these, are the reasons why he lost the chance.
Yukio is actually more disappointed than him. He nags and blames all this misfortune because of his side-hustling. Cursing the restaurant over and over, the only reason why he's accepting numerous part-time works.
Ever since the moment he began these sidelines, there were countless sleepless nights, resulting for more unhealthy habits. And that solely affects his performance on his regular work. Causing him to lose the chance to get promoted.
Nevertheless, it is what it is. Better luck next time.
Because right now, his priority is to settle his biggest surprise--Rukawa's first restaurant. And he is hopeful that once he fulfills this… everything will fall into their right places.
He breathed in, and breathed-out, composing his self before stepping into their unit.
"I'm home." he said aloud with no hint of how unfortunate this day is.
He took his shoes off and hanged his coat on the rack.
Still, no response was heard. "Kaede?"
As he walks further, the light coming from the bathroom door and the sound of water splashing, answers Rukawa's whereabouts.
Deciding to chill for a bit while waiting for Rukawa to come out, he took one bottle of beer from the fridge and sat on the couch. The TV is on when he took a seat. Rukawa must've been watching before he decides to take a shower.
The channel was set on an American competitive cooking show where amateur chefs are battling to get the title of a Masterchef. An interesting reality series, but seeing the word "US" or "America", he decided to switch to Netflix instead. That country's name is not something he wants to hear after a very bad day.
But the thought of chilling with Netflix, his brows can't stop meeting at the center. All because the recommended movies or series are mostly related to cooking shows. That is all good, but why are they all about American produced cooking show?
Somehow, that's starting to fluctuate his temper. His right leg began fidgeting as well.
Perhaps, Netflix is a bad idea. So how about we switched to YouTube and play some Luka Doncic highlights?
The idea, however, is not breaking his furrowing brows. As he scroll through the recommended vidoes, everything are relating to 'America' once again. This time, it's not just food nor culinary…but also about American lifestyle and even tour of some universities!
'What the fuck?' he swore to himself.
But it might all be coincidental.
So before he totally lose his temper, he turned off the Television.
He took a sip of his beer then rested the back of his head at the couch. Stares on the ceiling before closing them to cool his mind. A chance to relax himself for a little while. Then, he pulled himself up and straightened his back. Probably best to switch to new clothes first before anything else...
But before he completely stood off the couch, he noticed a familiar envelope that made him breathed out a heavy sigh. Since the last time he has seen his grandfather, every month, he's receiving this envelope where the content is a ridiculous bundle of profiles of the women of their town!
It was like his grandfather is giving him a list of candidates for Mrs. Sendoh Akira. A fucking-ridiculous idea by the old man!
"Tch."
Anyways, this will go straight to the bin.
Then his stares caught a particular envelope, just beside the ridiculous one. Without having to go through the content of letter, with the details written on the bank and the stamp stuck on the top-left corner, he already figured out the origin.
And that alone, reached his boiling point.
Rukawa went out of the bathroom, dressed into homey clothes with a towel over his head. He noticed his lover's presence on the couch. He finds it odd though, seeing his lover hasn't change to clean clothes while his stares never left the table.
Aa. Probably he noticed the envelope from the crazy old man. "You're here." He interrupted his peace, "Have you had dinner?"
But to his surprise, Sendoh abruptly stood with brows meeting at the center. "What is this?" he asked, holding the white envelope he received just this morning.
Rukawa felt the tone, but he's probably mistaken, so he ignored it and tried to answer the three-worded question. "Ah that. I received it this morning—" But Sendoh didn't let him finish, "Is this—are you—are you applying for scholarship in America?"
Rukawa is still confused about Sendoh's strange reaction. "No. That is—" But the older one cuts him again, "Without even telling me?!"
The tone left Rukawa speechless, still clueless about what's happening.
"Why? Are you leaving me now?!"
Rukawa's mouth gaped open, surprised by the out-of-nowhere question. "Akira. No—"
"Coz what? You are done with your life here?!"
Sendoh seems to not hear any of his responses. He's not even letting him finish nor explain the letter. "Akira—"
"Why? Coz I can't fulfill your dreams for you? That you have to go to that fucking country?!"
His temper starts to rise as well, baffled by Sendoh's words and continuous accusations. "What are you talking about?"
"Better opportunity? Better life? You think I can't give you that?"
The younger finds the courage to approach his lover fuming in rage, and managed to grab a wrist. "Calm down Akira. You are mistaken—" But Sendoh swayed it off, still not listening to him. "Mistaken? Really? Then why am I seeing that fucking country's name everywhere?!"
His brows meet in between. "Why do you keep saying that? Will you calm down, fucking dammit!"
"If you are that sick of me, then go! Go! Go run to your father. Hide inside his mansion and live the life you've always wanted!"
Rukawa's tried to reach for Sendoh's wrist but was swayed off once again. Instead, Sendoh grasped his shirt in one hand, with eyes fuming in anger. "But if you leave, don't think of coming back! Don't think of coming back into my life ever again!"
He freed and pushed Rukawa, who almost fall to his knees, and left the unit with the door slamming close.
Rukawa was speechless for some time. He slides himself down until he's completely sitting on the ground. He let the time pass by, only to comprehend and collate everything that Akira have said.
All this time he thought, the misfortune of his career is affecting only and only him. He never thought it also troubles Sendoh too for him to think this way—that he will leave him for America just to save his failing career.
But no.
Sendoh is completely mistaken.
He has changed. He wasn't the same as before.
Yes, he is career-driven as he has always been. But when life started with Akira, things have changed. His vision has changed.
A successful career… a title of a Chef… fame… fulfillment… are all pointless if Akira is out of the picture.
He'd rather lose everything... than live in a world without Akira on it.
And he needs to tell him that, before it's too late!
He has to let Akira know that he is now his everything. He is his future… his world… the only person he wants to be with for the rest of his life.
And he has to prove it to him with the only way he knows how…
So he got up on his feet and reached for his phone. He pressed a name and waited for the other line to pick up…
And the soonest the other line picks the call, he didn't waste any time to express his intention. "Ayako-senpai. I need your help… I need to buy a ring."
End of flashback
Saturday morning.
Rukawa, carrying a duffel bag on his shoulder, is standing at the corner of a parking lot of a convenience store. The rendezvous of the whole gang invited for this trip.
After the whole night of contemplating whether to come along or not, he ended up dragging himself at the meeting place, still carrying this feeling of reluctance.
Because in just one step… in one single step… this day will be added to the memories of his own selfish acts... even at the every end.
With the fear he might ruin this day for everyone, Rukawa thought of walking back home.
And as he was about to turn, his plan was busted when an arm arched around the back of his neck. "Oi Kitsune! You really did come, eh?" Sakuragi says.
Ryota then appeared from his open side. "Oi Rukawa!" he greeted, adding a tap on his shoulder. "Glad to see you again. Thought you're going to ditch us. And I am glad you didn't." he motioned a hand towards Sakuragi, asking for something.
"Fuck!" Sakuragi growled and took out his wallet and placed a paper bill on Miyagi's hand.
Rukawa felt dumbed for a second. These guys actually bet on him!
Sakuragi's arm is back on arching his neck. "Let's go! Our kids are waiting!" His neck was then dragged until they reached the two white vans parked side-by-side. Most likely, their rides to the staycation place.
And there he met the old faces included in this trip. Of course, the Sakuragi and Miyagi family is here for sure. Then, the usual friends, Uekusa and Koshino. The latter even gave him a nod as his polite greeting, in which Rukawa returned with a question of, "Why is there a freeloader here?"
Koshino flashes his middle finger, "Freelancer! I'm a freelancer!"
"Whatever."
The moment, however, turned sour, when a woman from the past appeared in front of him.
A woman who loved him dearly. A sister he once called.
And since they are never the same before, he just bowed his head a little to express his respect. But the thought of being detested due to his action that almost broke her little brother, the lady simply reached for his hand and even sends him a warm smile. "Glad to see you again, Rukawa-kun." A simple gesture that implies that the past no longer matters.
Guilt rushes inside him. Seeing how this special lady from the past managed to somehow forgives him this easily, despite leaving her brother alone in agony.
The lady gave his hand another squeeze before turning around and went inside the other van. Akagi, the husband, is on the driver's seats, sending him a wave.
"Kawa-san!"
The angelic voice turned his morning into a bliss when the little Sendoh rushes towards him, hugged his leg and beamed with full of excitement. "Amara's happy! Kawa-san is here!"
He smiled at the young one and run a palm over her head.
All of a sudden, his duffel bag was grabbed from behind, surprising him. As he turned, he was greeted by the most charming Sendoh of all, "Good morning."
His handsome presence, however, made Rukawa pouted away and quickly looked down at the girl to avoid Sendoh's gaze. "Good morning." Good thing, he managed to response back.
Then he felt Sendoh opens the back door of the vehicle. He reaches for the strap of his bag as he realized Sendoh's intention. "This can sit with me." he muttered.
But Sendoh just smiled on him saying, "Let's keep you comfortable the whole ride." Without further ado, he placed Rukawa's bag along with the others. He finally closed the back door and faced Rukawa, "Find a seat." he said then turned to his young one, "You too, honey."
"Yes papa!" Amara then left the adults and rushed inside the van.
Sendoh left him as well and headed towards the driver's seat. It seems the ever-so-humble CEO is the driver of this trip. And with his bag placed in the same ride, it's obvious which vehicle is he assigned to. Better not prolong this and just find a seat.
He headed towards the only door for the back passengers. Sakuragi's family is taking the first two rows, with Amara sitting beside their red-head daughter. While the Miyagi family is occupying the last row.
Seeing an unoccupied seat besides Sakuragi, he hopped in and thought of squeezing his enormous built but the redhead pushes him away. "Na-a-ah. We're full here, sorry."
He darted his glares, seeing the vacant seat is pretty much unoccupied. Before he contests, Sakuragi placed a bag on it. "Occupied. See?"
"Tch."
Then his stares landed on another option, just beside Miyagi. But before his attempt to occupy the second option, Miyagi stretches his legs wider. "Ack. My legs need more space."
His face dulled. Obviously, these fuckers intention is clear as the blue sky—it's to force him to take the driver's passenger seat!
Clearly not ideal for an obvious reason!
Nevertheless, there's another van he can squeeze himself into. But as he turned, Koshino slides the window and revealed his face saying, "Sorry, no brat allowed!" he said then quickly closes the window back.
Seems these idiots have initially planned this to ridicule him. 'I'll shave your brows in your sleep.' He thought to himself.
"Kawa-san!" Amara hollered. "Sit with Papa!" The innocent one put into words what others are trying to accomplish.
"Yeah! Go! Sit with Papa!" Sakuragi repeated, while Ayako and Miyagi kept on hiding their chuckles at the back.
Leaving with no other option, he finally decided to join along and simply curse these people inside his head. He opened the door of his designated seat and there he was welcomed by Sendoh's signature smile. "Finally. You found the best seat." Sendoh teased, which Rukawa responded with a roll of his eyes.
The driver waited for him to get settled before asking the little ones from the back. "Ready to go guys?"
The loud response from the passengers serves as a cue for them to start their road trip.
XXX
The noises filling the van are all coming from the back, while the driver's row retains comfortable on a dead silence.
Everyone, except for the ex-lovers, are having random conversations. All of a sudden, Sakuragi heard an inappropriate topic from the young ladies. "What crush-crush eh? Yanna? Who's this Jungkook?"
The eight-year old kid beamed, "Yanna likes Jungkook." she claimed.
"Amara likes Jungkook toooo!" she followed, even without knowing who Yanna is referring to. She just love mimicking her best friend.
Sakuragi pretended sulking to tease the kid. "No crush-ing! My Yanna is only mine!" he said. "Isn't Papa your first love?"
Yanna threw her arms in the air, "Papa is my first love!" With Amara following as usual, "Papa is Amawa's first love too!"
The red-heads bumped their fist. Then the young lady turned to her mother, "How about mama? Who is mama's first love?!"
Miyagi and Ayako jumped-in the conversation knowing the kid opened up an interesting topic, "Yes! Let's talk about Mama Haruko's first love!" They cheered, teasing the red-head himself while Haruko, on the other hand, is all but blushing. All because the adults know very well who Haruko's first love is. Something that can easily triggered Sakuragi's insecurities.
"No! No!" Sakuragi jumped-in, forming an X using his arms. "Let's not talk about mama's first love! That person is no good at all. Ugly face. Yuck!" he claimed. "Instead, why don't we talk about Kawa-san's first love…" A tease to buried his old friend more into an awkward situation.
"Yeah! Yeah! That's a good one." Miyagi followed with Ayako supporting it.
"Kawa-san's first love? I want to know! I want to know!" Amara, as usual, is very much excited hearing her current favorite person is the main subject.
The driver's row may looked quiet and unbothered, but Rukawa is on the verge of killing the redhead! Luckily for him, he's not hearing any sort of reaction from the driver's side.
Ayako began, "Did you know Amara, Kawa-san's first love has spiky hair?"
Amara's face brightens, "Spiky hair? Like Papa?"
The three tormentors laughed aloud, even Haruko is chuckling. "Yes! Yes! Like Papa!"
Miyagi took his turn, "Amara, did you know, Kawa san's first love has thick brows?"
The young Sendoh felt delighted. "Thick bwows? Papa has thick bwows too!"
"Yey! Thick bwows like Papa!" The three cheered and are laughing at the same time.
Sakuragi gave another, "And he is also tall."
"Like Papa again? Kawa-san's first love is like Papa!" she cheered.
The three tormentors couldn't contain their laughter, laughing their asses off. The kid's innocence turns out to be their best entertainment.
Rukawa took this chance to secretly flash his dirty finger at the opening between his seat and the window, directly aiming at the red-head, which made the people at the back laughed even more.
Feeling a little curious on what the other guy felt about the awkward subject from the back, he glanced at the driver's side through the corner of this eye. Fortunately, the driver is looking unbothered and seems all focused on the road.
Somehow, that made him feel relieved. For the awkward situation doesn't need to go further.
The van is now in tranquil after an hour has passed. Every passenger is on their sleep, except for the guy at the driver's side. Rukawa bought this chance by focusing and working on his phone instead of tolerating this uncomfortable atmosphere between them.
But to everyone's surprise, the vehicle swerved abruptly to the right to avoid hitting an obstacle the driver didn't notice ahead of time.
He waved his hand at the rearview mirror to express his apology to the back passengers, "Sorry! Sorry!" Luckily, the kids, as well as the adults, simply returned to their nap.
"You got a kid at the back. If you want to die, just say so." Rukawa taunted, without looking away from his phone, indirectly telling Sendoh to take extra precaution on his driving.
Sendoh made a small curve on his lips, eyes are still on the road. "Nah. Don't worry about it…" he said, "I won't die that easily."
Feeling his response a bit weird, Rukawa turned to him with brows furrowed, asking by his glares.
"Well, you know… as people would always say…" Sendoh turned to him with that mischievous look and smirk across his face as he says, "… first love never dies."
Rukawa was taken aback, surprised by the unexpected tease from the other. The ambiguous phrase might meant a different meaning as a common knowledge, but the smart guy was able to use it and relate it from the main topic a while ago... in order to tease him. All this time, he thought Sendoh is not minding nor listening at that uncomfortable subject from the back.
And now he has to repel, to regain his pride. "Tch. Who told you you're the first? I had a girlfriend, remember?" he said, referring to his two-day-old girlfriend back in his kinder grade, which Sendoh always mocked him with back in the days.
"Oh pardon me…" he heard Sendoh says in an apologetic tone. "Are you referring to your first?" he asked, "Sorry. But I'm actually referring to my kid's first love…"
Right there and then, Rukawa prayed for a lightning to strike at him and killed him at once. This is probably the most embarrassing situation he ever had in front of his ex-lover! Ugh! He wants to jump out of the window right there!
But this embarrassing situation ended when Sendoh started humming the song 'First Love Never Dies'.
Obviously, the guy is actually teasing him.
"I'm gonna fucking kill you." he hissed.
Sendoh burst-out a hard laugh.
And somehow, with that light moment they shared together, the awkward space between them... is finally broken.
After their four-hour journey, the group arrived safely and soundly.
Everyone is busy unloading all their belongings.
"So this is your plan? To take the brat in a staycation?" Koshino took this chance to interrogate his best friend while everyone is busy with their own things.
"What do you mean? I'm just giving my daughter her reward." he claimed, while his hands are full tidying up the van.
"Don't fuck with me! You can't fool me!"
Sendoh laughed on it. Koshino is really keen when it comes to this sort of things. "Well. Aside from being a good father, this chance is the only way I can get rid of the snake."
Koshino squeezed his eyes. "You mean Sawakita?"
Sendoh didn't confirmed, but only scoffed on it.
"So what now? Is this like… going-to-win-my-ex-lover-back operation kind of thing?" he said, quoting his own words.
Sendoh closed the back door down. "Nah. That's not necessary." he said.
Koshino furrowed. "What do you mean?"
Sendoh simply shrugged. "Well, what is there to win? When I'm pretty sure I haven't really lost anything in the first place?"
Koshino's gaped a little, feeling the confidence in his friend's tone.
"Sometimes Kosh, if you want to know a thing from a mouse... You need to learn how to trap it..." His final remarks, adding a smirk at the end, before taking his leave.
Koshino was stunned for a moment, trying to comprehend what Sendoh is meaning to imply. And when he did, he can't help the wide smirk forming on his lips…
TBC.
This chapter may sound lame to some of you, or chaotic probably, but I am grinning while I write this! HAHA. I hope you got the same feeling (Or else I might redo this). HAHAHA
Apologies if it may felt like it was written in a hurry… but I really want to update! I didn't even proof-read this! HAHAHA (I'll proofread the next days)
Only a few chapters and your questions will all be answered. Yey!
To the lovely reviewers:
Kaedesendo711, Addicted to SD, Ghorl, Caro, Guests, Kaede4ever (you surprised me with your review/s! Thank you so much!), Akiasamianne24, CandyPop88 (I'll finish this, I promise you! It's just, it's hard to write.), 30D01 (I hope you are doing well! Have a good day!), yourstellalux, SenruFan, shhshs
Thank you very much y'all. I never thought a lot of readers is onto this. Hopefully I won't disappoint you guys.
Ciao!