Sorry I took so long! There's been so much work to do.
I took some scenes from the manga. Hehe don't sue! Nothing belongs to me!
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Part 1: Around the World
Chapter 3: A New Friend
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Tsukushi woke up at 10. The latest she had ever slept to for a long time. She always had to wake early for school or work. Tsukushi sat up and winced. Her body was dreadfully sore. Her arms and legs felt like they were weighed down by iron. She didn't want to get up but she didn't want to waste a day staying in the bed. Therefore, she got up and went to take a warm bath, but it didn't help much. She got out half an hour later. She wanted to wear something comfortable, the heels she wore yesterday made her feet ache. They were still tender. She opted for a gray outfit consisting of sweatpants and a t-shirt. Then she went to look for sneakers. She wasn't surprised to find 10 pairs of them. She ended up choosing plain white ones. She went out and saw a guy in a black suit waiting for her. She remembered it was the same man from yesterday.
"Doumyoji-sama is in the gym. He'll meet you in the diner for lunch at 12. Tsukushi looked at her watch and saw that it was already 11. There was an hour until she had to go see him. Wait, she thought, have to?? Ever since she came on the boat he's been dictating her actions, where they went and ate. But, she realized, it was unfair to blame everything on him. He did ask her what she wanted to do yesterday. But the crux of it was that she was out of her league on the boat. She didn't know what to do or where to go.
Tsukushi saw that the man was still there; he seemed to be waiting for her to do something. "I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Makino Tsukushi."
The man was about to say, I know, but instinctively knew that the comment would not be appreciated. "Yoroshiku. My name is Kuroda Seikichi."
"Yoroshiku Kuroda-san. Is there a directory or a map of the boat, each of the levels?" He took one out of his inner pocket, like he had been waiting for her to ask. She opened it and found a hard time opening the whole thing. It was the length of a subway map. So she saw each deck one at a time. She started with the bottom decks. Deck 10 was off limits. It was the engineering room. Deck 9 was the casino. Decks 7 and 8 were the entertainment center, such as karaoke, television center, etc. Deck 6 was the sports center. That's where she and Doumyoji went to play basketball. Decks 4 and 5 were shopping malls. Why there was a need for two decks of shopping malls she didn't know. It seemed useless to her. Decks 1 to 3 were residential areas. Tsukushi couldn't believe how much the cruise liner could hold. She looked at each of the deck again and knew that she'd get lost if she went alone. Each deck was 1000 feet long. She remembered the ease in which Doumyoji found the ballroom and everywhere else they went. She wondered if he had memorized that layout or if he also had a map. She laughed when she conjured up an image of Doumyoji looking at the map upside down and getting frustrated because he was lost and didn't want to ask for directions.
The man that greeted her was still there. He didn't say a word but he did smile when he heard her laugh. He thought, so this is the girl Doumyoji- sama loves. She's very different from the girls who tried to approach Doumyoji-sama. Tsukushi didn't know it but the man beside her was her bodyguard when Doumyoji wasn't with her. She didn't understand that she had entered his world the moment she agreed to stay on the boat, which meant that she became a target. Doumyoji Corporations was worth billions. There are people out there who would kidnap her for ransom.
Tsukushi was still looking at the map. She didn't have anywhere she wanted to go, so she looked at what her deck had. She flipped to the page and was dumbfounded by the words above the picture of the deck. She read: DOUMYOUJI. She had wondered why she didn't see anyone on this floor and now she knew. Doumyouji booked this whole floor. She thought back to the times they went to their rooms and remembered Doumyouji had always put in a key where the elevator buttons were. She took out her key card and noticed she had a key for the elevator too. She wondered why she didn't notice before. It was probably because she's been too amazed to notice these trivial things.
She looked at the map again and saw that there was an entertainment center, weight training room, a swimming pool, and a spa. She wondered if she should find Doumyouji. She knew that if she went anywhere else she wouldn't get back anytime soon. She wanted to find Doumyoji but she didn't want to seem like she wanted to be with him. She looked at her watch; it was only 11: 30. She had half an hour left.
She realized she was being a coward. She said she wouldn't be a coward anymore; she was going to be honest about her feelings. She squared her shoulders and marched to the gym center.
She saw Doumyouji half naked he wasn't wearing a shirt. (AN: o.O) She saw his muscles flex and his skin glisten with sweat. Her body heated up like it was on fire. She ran back out into the hallway. She was so flustered. That image of Doumyoji would forever be branded in her mind. She didn't know what to do, how would she face him at lunch? Tsukushi shook her head violently as if trying to rid herself of the image. She stopped and thought, what was she so embarrassed about? It wasn't the first time she had seen him without a shirt on. There was the time she fell into Sakurako's trap and was bullied by the people in school. He had rescued her and he carried her home. He had just finished taking a bath and hadn't put on a shirt. She had gotten on his bed so that he could treat her wounds. Then there was that other time when the witches from Eitoku tricked her and told her that Yuuki went night skiing. Doumyouji had found her and saved her again. They had to use body heat to warm up.
But why was this time different from all the others? Then it dawned on her, she's starting to think of him as a man, as her boyfriend. Her heart was still racing. What should she do?
Inside, Tsukasa thought he heard a noise. He looked up and around but saw no one. Thinking it was only his imagination he went back to finishing his set. Afterwards he looked at the time, it was a quarter to 12. He went to the shower stall at the back of the room. He opened the door, prepared to go to the diner when he caught something in the corner of his eye. There was Tsukushi sitting on the floor with her head down. He was instantly worried.
Tsukasa knelt down, "Tsukushi! What's wrong?"
Tsuksuhi's head shot up, saw Tsukasa and immediately stood up and backed away. Tsukasa turned his head to where she was. His eye twitched. You can see a vein popping. He was mad that she moved away. Then all the pieces assembled in his mind, the sound he thought he heard, the flush in her cheeks, and the fact that she looked afraid of him. Tsukasa smiled wickedly. "I know what you're thinking." Tsukushi turned even redder if that was even possible.
Tsukasa took a step toward her and she took a step back. But Tsukasa's steps were much longer than Tsukushi's. In seconds Tsukasa was hovering over her. He put his right hand on the wall and leaned towards Tsukushi.
She turned her face away from him. She could smell his cologne. It was an intoxicating scent. Tsukushi felt her heart beating, threatening to jump out of her body.
Tsukasa used his free left hand and turned Tsukushi's face back to his. He kissed her, slowly and gently. At first she protested but she soon lost the will. She put her arms around his neck, tiptoed and kissed him back.
The kiss was ended minutes later. Both had a faint blush. A few seconds later Tsukasa had a wide smile he realized Tsukushi had actually kissed him back. He was wise not to comment on it. He took his right hand off the wall and offered it to Tsukushi, "Let's eat lunch."
Tsukushi placed her hand in his and nodded. She could still feel her heartbeat but it was slowing down. "We're really going to have a normal relationship," Tsukushi thought.
Tsukushi didn't realize how hungry she was until she saw all the food being brought to the table. It was Italian food. There was so much she didn't know where to start. She decided to try the pasta first since it was right in front of her. She brought it to her mouth and nearly melted at the contact. The sauce was sweet, filled with tomatoes, mushrooms, and meat. The spaghetti was al dente.
Unbeknownst to Tsukushi, Tsukasa was watching her. He loved watching her eat. She's always caught up in the flavors like she was tasting heaven.
"You always eat things like they're the tastiest thing you've ever eaten."
Tsukushi didn't understand, "What are you talking about? They are."
"None of the women around me eat with that kind of face. Neither my sister, Shizuka, nor my mother."
"Even though everything is scrumptious I prefer having a dinner pot in the center where you can feel the warm steam."
"The food you eat is not something I can stuff down my throat."
For that comment Tsukushi bopped him on the head. "Ite! What was that for?" You could see a bump on his head the size of a ping-pong ball. Nobody would ever say Tsukushi hit like a girl. She probably became so strong because she didn't have anyone to rely on. Her brother was three years younger (AN: Is he? I don't remember) and her father always complained of backaches, even though she knew it wasn't true. She decided not to complain about it.
Tsukushi ignored Tsukasa and chomped away on her food. Tsukasa laughed on the inside. He was starting to understand how Tsukushi thinks. He knew what would set her off; comments like poor people or coward were the easiest way to fire her up. Simple comments about her looks or if he made any advancement towards her would cause her to blush. He felt incredibly happy that he knew her this well. He could tell that she wouldn't have let down her barriers this easily with others.
He was really fortunate Shigeru wasn't like all the other rich girls. If she hadn't arranged the marriage on a boat and tricked Tsukushi, he wouldn't have been able to spend time with Tsukushi. He knew she wouldn't have opened up this much to him if they were still in Tokyo. Although Tsukushi was nice to everyone she refrained from giving too much of herself away. Tsukasa didn't know if it was because she was afraid to be hurt or if she was just too used to not depending on anyone. He'd bet that her friends outside of Eitoku wouldn't know the problems she encountered in her daily life. Even her best friend, Yuuki, only knew the vague story about her life inside the school. When she entered the school, she unconsciously erected barriers. She felt she didn't belong; she was a poor girl in a rich school. And he was lumped into the category of everyone she should be wary of. But now he was just an ordinary guy, okay so maybe not ordinary, but on the boat his status wasn't as apparent as in school. Tsukushi had removed her barriers. He knew she wouldn't have done that with anyone else.
"But you make it sound really nice. I'd like to try it when we return to Japan. Tsukushi, Aishiteru." Tsukushi's head shot up. She saw Tsukasa had a mellow warm expression. This was the first time he said that instead of suki. Tsukushi blushed. He said it so suddenly she didn't know how to respond. But Tsukasa wasn't expecting anything from her. A few seconds after his declaration he asked her, "Anything you want to do today?"
Tsukushi was grateful that Tsukasa didn't press her for an answer. She didn't know why she froze. She said she loved him before, but just now, he looked so intense, so sincere that she couldn't think. "I'm still aching from yesterday."
"There's a body massage and spa on the third deck. You'll probably feel better afterwards."
"How do you know where everything is?"
"I've been on this boat a few years ago," Tsukasa said.
"Oh." Tsukushi hadn't thought of such a simple explanation. "With your sister?"
"Yeah, she wanted to do something different during the summer."
Traveling around the world is something only a rich person can think of doing and actually have it come true, Tsukushi thought.
"So are you going to go?"
Tsukushi thought about it. The concept of a massage was so foreign to her; maybe it'll do her some good. "Okay. What will you be doing?"
"I think I'll go to the casino. I haven't been in one since the last time I came with my sister."
"Last time?? You would have been under aged!" She was shocked at how laws could be so easily violated.
"They wouldn't have stopped me after all I'm the heir to Doumyoji Corporations. And even if they tried they couldn't have. Nobody gets in my way."
Tsukushi shuddered. She still remembered the first time she met him. Her friend had fell down the stairs and accidentally hit him. He was so terrifying. His eyes were cold and they looked like they could see through you. Now she rarely sees those eyes. Although she hadn't forgotten it's there, a part of who he was.
He looked like he had slipped back into the past. Tsukushi tried to think of something to bring him back. "How long is the massage going to take?"
"Huh?" Tsukasa snapped back into reality, "How ever long you want. I suppose the complete package would be a few hours."
They finished lunch. And Tsukushi turned to go down the stairs. She paused, "Doumyoji? Can you take me there? I think I'll get lost."
Tsukasa grinned. "Afraid?"
Tsukushi got mad. "Forget I asked!" And continued walking down the stairs.
Tsukasa went after her and caught her arm. "I'll bring you." He slipped his hand from her arm to her hand. It was a relatively short walk, but there were a lot of twists and turns. She didn't remember how to go back.
"I'll find you later back at your room four hours from now, at 6." Tsukasa turned to walk away, but he turned back. "I forgot to give you this." He fumbled in his pocket and took out a cell phone.
"A cell phone? But we're below water."
"There's a signal receiver on the ship. My number is in there too. The boat is too big; if you get lost, call me. There's also a tracking device in the phone for the other phone. I had it especially installed." This time Tsukasa really left.
Tsukushi narrowed her eyes, tracking device??? What was she? A dog with a leash? But then she realized the tracking device worked both ways. She smiled. Tsukasa finally understood equality. When did he become this considerate? She remembered the beeper he gave her. He made it sound like she had to be at his beck and call, but this time he didn't say that. Is he really changing? She held the phone to her heart and walked in.
A lady working there received her. "How may I help you?"
"Umm," Tsukushi didn't know what to ask for. She's never been in one, but she remembered Doumyoji had said the complete package would take the longest. "The complete package."
While Tsukushi was thinking the saleslady was looking at her up and down. Tsukushi didn't look like a rich girl. She didn't wear makeup, her hair wasn't shiny and voluminous, and her nails were unpolished. "Right this way, can I get your card?" she said in a snotty tone.
"My card?"
"Yes, your key card. If you don't have one then you will have to go somewhere else." Only the rich had a key card.
"Uhh," She dug into her pocket and took out the key to her room, "You mean this one?"
The lady's eyes widened when she saw there was a real key next to her card. "Y-yes." The lady took it over to a register and swiped it. Tsukushi didn't know the key had so many useful functions. The lady gave the key back to her. "I'll bring you in."
Tsukushi noticed the lady's attitude changed. She got annoyed. Everyone always judge people and things through appearance, probably thought she couldn't pay because she didn't look rich. Tsukushi was told to take off her clothes and was given a robe. She felt uncomfortable being naked but she knew she had to.
A different lady was waiting outside her changing room. This one looked to be around the same age as her. She was brought her to the massage room. It was empty with three beds. She thought it was a big room considering it was only for massages. The walls were light red but couldn't be termed pink. There were paintings of flowers on all sides of the room. Tsukushi was told to take off her robe and lie down on the center bed. Tsukushi really didn't want to expose herself but since they were both girls it made it better. She was about to lie down when they heard a noise outside.
"What do you mean this room is being used?" Tsukushi could distinguish it was a girl's voice. "We've always used this room because it is the best of all your rooms, which is why you charge more."
Tsukushi who was inside thought, more? but she didn't ask for it. Then it registered. The shock she saw on the lady when she presented her the key card. The key attached to the card proved that she was Doumyoji's guest and when her card was swiped it was confirmed. And of course, nothing but the best for Doumyoji and his friends. Tsukushi decided to go outside to clear up the problem. She didn't mind using another room. They were all the same to her. Tsukushi moved towards the door. The lady inside with her restrained her. "Don't, let them handle it."
Tsukushi laid a hand on the one on her arm. "It's ok." She opened the door to resolve the hassle. She was surprised at who she saw. It was the three women that had talked to her at the ball. Everyone turned to her.
Masai sneered, "So it's you."
Tsukushi moved to close the door, but Masai put a hand on the door before she could close it in all the way. "I have nothing to say to you." Tsukushi said.
"Oh but I have a lot to say to you. Just because you're with Doumyoji don't think you're better than the rest of us. You're still a poor worthless girl. He'll dump you after he's done using you."
Tsukushi got so mad. Here was a complete stranger thinking she knew everything about her and Doumyoji. She didn't want to cause a scene but she couldn't hold it in anymore. "Who the hell do you think you are? You're just a rich spoiled girl. You're the one that doesn't know anything. No guy will like you let alone Doumyoji or any other rich guys. All you care about is yourself, so go rot in hell with all your other superficial friends. Now leave me alone!" She slapped the hand away from the door, closed it and locked it. "These people infuriate me!"
The lady, who was in the room with her, clapped. "I never thought someone would have the nerve to stand up to them. They're heiresses to very big companies. A word from them and you'll be gone from your job."
Tsukushi had question marks over her head. "Who are they?"
"You mean you didn't know?"
Tsukushi shrugged. She didn't really care who they were. "I faced much worse back in my school. All the people there were rich."
"Is that where you met Doumyoji?"
"How'd you know I'm with him?"
"Well the argument just now and I've seen you around with him on my hours off."
Tsukushi looked at the girl beside her. She didn't think she was an excellent judge of character but she could still differentiate between decent people and conniving people. If she had been truthful to herself she would have known Sakurako and the other girls at Eitoku couldn't be her friends, but she had been so desperate for company. Now she promised she would be truthful to herself, and this girl didn't send off any warning signals. "I didn't introduce myself yet, Makino Tsukushi. Yoroshiku."
"My name is Rikkaida Ryoko. Yoroshiku. Now let's get started on your massage." Tsukushi took off her robe and sat on the boat. She didn't feel as shy as she did in the beginning. Maybe it's because she wasn't stripping in front of a stranger anymore.
Rikkaida was a very good masseuse. They talked about everything. Tsukushi told Rikkaida how she met Doumyoji, the red card, the problems she had with him, his mother and how she ended up being on the boat.
Rikkaida also talked about her own life. Tsukushi found out they were the same age. Rikkaida had to work because she had to support herself. She was an orphan, her parents died in a car accident and there had been no one to take her in. She's been in the orphanage until she was 15. Then she decided to leave and make a living for herself. The people at the orphanage weren't exactly the ideal friends. Everyone was cruel to each other, competition to be placed in a home and leave the hell house. Rikkaida had seen a position open for a masseuse in a store near the orphanage. She applied. She really didn't know much about it but they said they were willing to train. She had learned quickly and soon became really good. When she saw there was a position open on the boat, she signed up for it. She always wanted to travel around the world and the pay was really good. With the glowing recommendations she received from her previous workplace she was able to get the job.
They talked the entire time. Tsukushi had never felt so relaxed. She didn't know whether it was the massage or if Rikkaida was a good listener. They finished in an hour. Tsukushi spent an hour in the Jacuzzi. Rikkaida couldn't join her but she did keep her company since there was no one else she needed to attend to. Her skin felt silky smooth and her muscles were loose, they weren't weighted down anymore. She felt a lot better than she did when she woke up.
Tsukushi went to change back into her original clothing. She took out the cell phone Doumyoji gave her and asked Rikkaida for her room number.
"322."
Tsukushi stored it in and looked around for her number. She finally found it and gave it to Rikkaida. "If you need anything, call me."
Rikkaida smiled, "Arigatou."
Tsukushi smiled back, "I need company other than Doumyoji." Tsukushi left and went to find Doumyoji. She remembered deck 9 was the casino; she had to walk 4 flights down. Once she reached the 9th floor the atmosphere changed. She saw the blinding lights from the slots. There were two guards on each of the staircase to prevent minors. She saw them but continued walking. She didn't expect to be stopped but she was.
"Can I get some ID please," said one of the guards.
"ID?" Tsukushi repeated. She didn't have anything like that. She came onto the boat with just her clothes on. She didn't exactly have time to pack.
"If you don't have ID then you'll have to leave," said the other guard.
Tsukushi didn't know what to do; she just wanted to find Tsukasa. Then she remembered how the lady looked when she saw her key card. Maybe it'll work this time. She took it out and showed the guys. They inspected it and gave it back to her.
"We're sorry for the inconvenience. Please enjoy your stay." Both of the guys bowed and let her pass. Their attitude reversed. Tsukushi rolled her eyes. She looked at the key to see what was so special. It was silver with a square handle. There was an engraving on it. She looked closer and saw that it read Doumyoji. She put the key back in her pocket. "Very useful indeed," Tsukushi thought.
Tsukushi looked around her and didn't know where to start looking for Tsukasa. She remembered the phone he gave her had a tracking device. She took it out and searched for the program. He didn't seem that far from her. From their locations it seemed like they should be within sight distance but she looked around and didn't see him. All she saw was a lot of people beside the card tables. No way, Tsukushi thought. Was he in the middle of the crowd? She pushed her way through. She froze at what she saw. There were three men excluding Doumyoji. They were sitting at a round green table. There was a barrier set between them and the bystanders. What made her pause was the huge amount of chips on the center of the table. They were playing poker. The three men looked to be in their 40s. They were all wearing a suit. Doumyoji only wore slacks, the same ones she saw on him last. It should've made him look out of place but it didn't. His aura of confidence was intense. His sat in a relaxed position, almost as if he was bored but his eyes were sharp and clear, like he could see through his opponents.
This didn't seem like the same man that left her just a few hours ago. Doumyoji had project different faces in different situations. It must be something taught at an early age since they always have to deal with people, like in business meetings or at social gatherings. It made her appreciate Doumyoji's childish side so much more. It was a side he didn't show others, only her and his sister, because they were the only ones he trusted. Even with the F3 he was reserved.
Tsukushi continued to watch. She didn't realize how long. She just kept seeing Doumyoji's chips pile up next to him in a neat stack. It kept growing while the others' were dwindling. One man was starting to sweat. Tsukushi felt bad for him, but then he deserved it by even gambling. Doumyoji probably wouldn't even worry about his money since he didn't earn it.
She saw Doumyoji check his watch once the hand was finished; at the same time she checked hers. It was 5:45, almost time for their meeting. Tsukasa took out his cell phone. He must've used the tracking program because his head immediately lifted from the phone and into the crowd. He searched and saw Tsukushi. Their eyes locked. She waved at him hesitantly. She didn't know how he'd react to seeing her here. She didn't have to wonder long because Tsukasa instantly smiled.
There were a lot of girls behind her who was watching the game only due to Doumyoji. They didn't understand what was so fun about poker but they did know that Doumyoji looked very handsome and cool. When Doumyoji smiled in their direction, they each thought the smile was for them. None of them noticed that his affections were for the girl in front of them who was almost a head shorter.
Tsukushi heard the girls sigh and then start bickering with each other saying that Doumyoji smiling only at her. Tsukushi found them annoying but she felt special because she knew his affections were only for her.
Doumyoji played for a few minutes more and pardoned himself. "Excuse me, I have a prior engagement."
The old man sitting across from him, the one who was sweating a lot, said, "But you must give us a chance to win it all back." Everyone looked at the massive pile of chips Doumyoji had.
"Another time." That was all he said. He snapped his fingers and men in black suits packed up the chips. Tsukushi didn't even notice them. Doumyoji walked towards her. The girls behind her was silent, waiting in anticipation to see whom Doumyoji would pick.
"Shall we go?" Doumyoji offered his hand.
Tsukushi smiled and took it with ease. The girls were left in disbelief. They didn't understand why he would choose someone as plain as that girl.
"Wait, is that the girl that jumped on the boat?" One girl asked.
"Are you kidding me? Her?! That's the girl Doumyoji has been spending all of his time with?!" said another girl.
"It must be, I heard she was very plain and about the same age as him," yet another girl replied.
People around them confirmed it. Some of them had been there when Tsukushi jumped on the boat, and others saw them together. Everyone stared in the direction in which Doumyoji and Tsukushi left.
"I didn't know you played poker."
Tsukasa shrugged, "I play other things, but there were some people that wanted to play me."
Tsukushi pondered, "They probably thought you didn't know how to play and wanted to filch you."
"Most probably." Tsukasa said it with such ease that Tsukushi didn't understand how he could take that so simply. If she found out somebody wanted to steal from her she'd be hysterical or at least mad, Tsukasa showed no emotion. Must be because everyone always wants something from him. She remembered his birthday party. There were a lot of people that wanted him to talk to his father and smooth the negotiations. Tsukasa had been very cold to them. This was the same.
"So how much did you win from them? Hundred thousand or so?" When she said it, she found that appalling, that one person could win so much in such a short time. But she knew she wasn't understating, she saw A LOT of chips. They were in colors she had never seen before she thought different casinos probably have different colors for each amount.
"50 million."
"Huh?" Tsukushi didn't quite hear Doumyoji.
"I won somewhere around $50,985,500."
Tsukushi's eyes bulged. "50 million." She couldn't believe it. "How can a person win so much?"
"It's really easy. They're all millionaires they don't make cheap bets. Each hand had a few million at stake. Actually I didn't win that much, last time I won a billion."
"A billion?!" Tsukushi choked on the word. How could anyone win a billion and be cool about it? "But what about the people that lost?"
"They have money to lose. The people I play with are all rich. Besides I don't think people should pay if they can't play."
"I think you mean they shouldn't play if they can't pay."
Tsukasa's vein was showing. "Doesn't matter."
"You can never get your sayings straight."
"Shut up."
"But Doumyoji, about gambling, what if you lose?"
"I don't lose more than 100 million. When I reach that point I stop playing I'm not going to be an idiot and tell myself that I'll win it back with the next hand. I usually don't gamble when I'm in a bad mood because I know I can't control myself."
Tsukushi looked at Doumyouji in a new light. He wasn't the imbecile she thought he was. He actually knew what he was doing.
They reached the diner and had steak for dinner. She told him all about meeting Rikkaida, she excluded mentioning the three girls because she didn't know what he might do to them. Tsukasa didn't mind simply listening to what she did. She made everything sound important and he was enchanted by the passion with which she recounted her day.
They finished dinner at 9. It was still early so they decided to go to karoke. They went to the entertainment center and made a fool out of themselves in their private karaoke room. They sang until their voice was hoarse, which was around 12.
Tsukushi started yawning and that's when Tsukasa decided to call it a night. They went back to their rooms. Tsukasa kissed Tsukushi on the lips. He was the first to break the kiss. "Good night."
"Good night." Tsukushi went into her room and took a bath. She wore her pajamas and dropped on her bed. She was staring at the adjoining door. Aishiteru Doumyouji.
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I hope everyone liked it! Love it? Hate it? Tell me.
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Part 1: Around the World
Chapter 3: A New Friend
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Tsukushi woke up at 10. The latest she had ever slept to for a long time. She always had to wake early for school or work. Tsukushi sat up and winced. Her body was dreadfully sore. Her arms and legs felt like they were weighed down by iron. She didn't want to get up but she didn't want to waste a day staying in the bed. Therefore, she got up and went to take a warm bath, but it didn't help much. She got out half an hour later. She wanted to wear something comfortable, the heels she wore yesterday made her feet ache. They were still tender. She opted for a gray outfit consisting of sweatpants and a t-shirt. Then she went to look for sneakers. She wasn't surprised to find 10 pairs of them. She ended up choosing plain white ones. She went out and saw a guy in a black suit waiting for her. She remembered it was the same man from yesterday.
"Doumyoji-sama is in the gym. He'll meet you in the diner for lunch at 12. Tsukushi looked at her watch and saw that it was already 11. There was an hour until she had to go see him. Wait, she thought, have to?? Ever since she came on the boat he's been dictating her actions, where they went and ate. But, she realized, it was unfair to blame everything on him. He did ask her what she wanted to do yesterday. But the crux of it was that she was out of her league on the boat. She didn't know what to do or where to go.
Tsukushi saw that the man was still there; he seemed to be waiting for her to do something. "I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Makino Tsukushi."
The man was about to say, I know, but instinctively knew that the comment would not be appreciated. "Yoroshiku. My name is Kuroda Seikichi."
"Yoroshiku Kuroda-san. Is there a directory or a map of the boat, each of the levels?" He took one out of his inner pocket, like he had been waiting for her to ask. She opened it and found a hard time opening the whole thing. It was the length of a subway map. So she saw each deck one at a time. She started with the bottom decks. Deck 10 was off limits. It was the engineering room. Deck 9 was the casino. Decks 7 and 8 were the entertainment center, such as karaoke, television center, etc. Deck 6 was the sports center. That's where she and Doumyoji went to play basketball. Decks 4 and 5 were shopping malls. Why there was a need for two decks of shopping malls she didn't know. It seemed useless to her. Decks 1 to 3 were residential areas. Tsukushi couldn't believe how much the cruise liner could hold. She looked at each of the deck again and knew that she'd get lost if she went alone. Each deck was 1000 feet long. She remembered the ease in which Doumyoji found the ballroom and everywhere else they went. She wondered if he had memorized that layout or if he also had a map. She laughed when she conjured up an image of Doumyoji looking at the map upside down and getting frustrated because he was lost and didn't want to ask for directions.
The man that greeted her was still there. He didn't say a word but he did smile when he heard her laugh. He thought, so this is the girl Doumyoji- sama loves. She's very different from the girls who tried to approach Doumyoji-sama. Tsukushi didn't know it but the man beside her was her bodyguard when Doumyoji wasn't with her. She didn't understand that she had entered his world the moment she agreed to stay on the boat, which meant that she became a target. Doumyoji Corporations was worth billions. There are people out there who would kidnap her for ransom.
Tsukushi was still looking at the map. She didn't have anywhere she wanted to go, so she looked at what her deck had. She flipped to the page and was dumbfounded by the words above the picture of the deck. She read: DOUMYOUJI. She had wondered why she didn't see anyone on this floor and now she knew. Doumyouji booked this whole floor. She thought back to the times they went to their rooms and remembered Doumyouji had always put in a key where the elevator buttons were. She took out her key card and noticed she had a key for the elevator too. She wondered why she didn't notice before. It was probably because she's been too amazed to notice these trivial things.
She looked at the map again and saw that there was an entertainment center, weight training room, a swimming pool, and a spa. She wondered if she should find Doumyouji. She knew that if she went anywhere else she wouldn't get back anytime soon. She wanted to find Doumyoji but she didn't want to seem like she wanted to be with him. She looked at her watch; it was only 11: 30. She had half an hour left.
She realized she was being a coward. She said she wouldn't be a coward anymore; she was going to be honest about her feelings. She squared her shoulders and marched to the gym center.
She saw Doumyouji half naked he wasn't wearing a shirt. (AN: o.O) She saw his muscles flex and his skin glisten with sweat. Her body heated up like it was on fire. She ran back out into the hallway. She was so flustered. That image of Doumyoji would forever be branded in her mind. She didn't know what to do, how would she face him at lunch? Tsukushi shook her head violently as if trying to rid herself of the image. She stopped and thought, what was she so embarrassed about? It wasn't the first time she had seen him without a shirt on. There was the time she fell into Sakurako's trap and was bullied by the people in school. He had rescued her and he carried her home. He had just finished taking a bath and hadn't put on a shirt. She had gotten on his bed so that he could treat her wounds. Then there was that other time when the witches from Eitoku tricked her and told her that Yuuki went night skiing. Doumyouji had found her and saved her again. They had to use body heat to warm up.
But why was this time different from all the others? Then it dawned on her, she's starting to think of him as a man, as her boyfriend. Her heart was still racing. What should she do?
Inside, Tsukasa thought he heard a noise. He looked up and around but saw no one. Thinking it was only his imagination he went back to finishing his set. Afterwards he looked at the time, it was a quarter to 12. He went to the shower stall at the back of the room. He opened the door, prepared to go to the diner when he caught something in the corner of his eye. There was Tsukushi sitting on the floor with her head down. He was instantly worried.
Tsukasa knelt down, "Tsukushi! What's wrong?"
Tsuksuhi's head shot up, saw Tsukasa and immediately stood up and backed away. Tsukasa turned his head to where she was. His eye twitched. You can see a vein popping. He was mad that she moved away. Then all the pieces assembled in his mind, the sound he thought he heard, the flush in her cheeks, and the fact that she looked afraid of him. Tsukasa smiled wickedly. "I know what you're thinking." Tsukushi turned even redder if that was even possible.
Tsukasa took a step toward her and she took a step back. But Tsukasa's steps were much longer than Tsukushi's. In seconds Tsukasa was hovering over her. He put his right hand on the wall and leaned towards Tsukushi.
She turned her face away from him. She could smell his cologne. It was an intoxicating scent. Tsukushi felt her heart beating, threatening to jump out of her body.
Tsukasa used his free left hand and turned Tsukushi's face back to his. He kissed her, slowly and gently. At first she protested but she soon lost the will. She put her arms around his neck, tiptoed and kissed him back.
The kiss was ended minutes later. Both had a faint blush. A few seconds later Tsukasa had a wide smile he realized Tsukushi had actually kissed him back. He was wise not to comment on it. He took his right hand off the wall and offered it to Tsukushi, "Let's eat lunch."
Tsukushi placed her hand in his and nodded. She could still feel her heartbeat but it was slowing down. "We're really going to have a normal relationship," Tsukushi thought.
Tsukushi didn't realize how hungry she was until she saw all the food being brought to the table. It was Italian food. There was so much she didn't know where to start. She decided to try the pasta first since it was right in front of her. She brought it to her mouth and nearly melted at the contact. The sauce was sweet, filled with tomatoes, mushrooms, and meat. The spaghetti was al dente.
Unbeknownst to Tsukushi, Tsukasa was watching her. He loved watching her eat. She's always caught up in the flavors like she was tasting heaven.
"You always eat things like they're the tastiest thing you've ever eaten."
Tsukushi didn't understand, "What are you talking about? They are."
"None of the women around me eat with that kind of face. Neither my sister, Shizuka, nor my mother."
"Even though everything is scrumptious I prefer having a dinner pot in the center where you can feel the warm steam."
"The food you eat is not something I can stuff down my throat."
For that comment Tsukushi bopped him on the head. "Ite! What was that for?" You could see a bump on his head the size of a ping-pong ball. Nobody would ever say Tsukushi hit like a girl. She probably became so strong because she didn't have anyone to rely on. Her brother was three years younger (AN: Is he? I don't remember) and her father always complained of backaches, even though she knew it wasn't true. She decided not to complain about it.
Tsukushi ignored Tsukasa and chomped away on her food. Tsukasa laughed on the inside. He was starting to understand how Tsukushi thinks. He knew what would set her off; comments like poor people or coward were the easiest way to fire her up. Simple comments about her looks or if he made any advancement towards her would cause her to blush. He felt incredibly happy that he knew her this well. He could tell that she wouldn't have let down her barriers this easily with others.
He was really fortunate Shigeru wasn't like all the other rich girls. If she hadn't arranged the marriage on a boat and tricked Tsukushi, he wouldn't have been able to spend time with Tsukushi. He knew she wouldn't have opened up this much to him if they were still in Tokyo. Although Tsukushi was nice to everyone she refrained from giving too much of herself away. Tsukasa didn't know if it was because she was afraid to be hurt or if she was just too used to not depending on anyone. He'd bet that her friends outside of Eitoku wouldn't know the problems she encountered in her daily life. Even her best friend, Yuuki, only knew the vague story about her life inside the school. When she entered the school, she unconsciously erected barriers. She felt she didn't belong; she was a poor girl in a rich school. And he was lumped into the category of everyone she should be wary of. But now he was just an ordinary guy, okay so maybe not ordinary, but on the boat his status wasn't as apparent as in school. Tsukushi had removed her barriers. He knew she wouldn't have done that with anyone else.
"But you make it sound really nice. I'd like to try it when we return to Japan. Tsukushi, Aishiteru." Tsukushi's head shot up. She saw Tsukasa had a mellow warm expression. This was the first time he said that instead of suki. Tsukushi blushed. He said it so suddenly she didn't know how to respond. But Tsukasa wasn't expecting anything from her. A few seconds after his declaration he asked her, "Anything you want to do today?"
Tsukushi was grateful that Tsukasa didn't press her for an answer. She didn't know why she froze. She said she loved him before, but just now, he looked so intense, so sincere that she couldn't think. "I'm still aching from yesterday."
"There's a body massage and spa on the third deck. You'll probably feel better afterwards."
"How do you know where everything is?"
"I've been on this boat a few years ago," Tsukasa said.
"Oh." Tsukushi hadn't thought of such a simple explanation. "With your sister?"
"Yeah, she wanted to do something different during the summer."
Traveling around the world is something only a rich person can think of doing and actually have it come true, Tsukushi thought.
"So are you going to go?"
Tsukushi thought about it. The concept of a massage was so foreign to her; maybe it'll do her some good. "Okay. What will you be doing?"
"I think I'll go to the casino. I haven't been in one since the last time I came with my sister."
"Last time?? You would have been under aged!" She was shocked at how laws could be so easily violated.
"They wouldn't have stopped me after all I'm the heir to Doumyoji Corporations. And even if they tried they couldn't have. Nobody gets in my way."
Tsukushi shuddered. She still remembered the first time she met him. Her friend had fell down the stairs and accidentally hit him. He was so terrifying. His eyes were cold and they looked like they could see through you. Now she rarely sees those eyes. Although she hadn't forgotten it's there, a part of who he was.
He looked like he had slipped back into the past. Tsukushi tried to think of something to bring him back. "How long is the massage going to take?"
"Huh?" Tsukasa snapped back into reality, "How ever long you want. I suppose the complete package would be a few hours."
They finished lunch. And Tsukushi turned to go down the stairs. She paused, "Doumyoji? Can you take me there? I think I'll get lost."
Tsukasa grinned. "Afraid?"
Tsukushi got mad. "Forget I asked!" And continued walking down the stairs.
Tsukasa went after her and caught her arm. "I'll bring you." He slipped his hand from her arm to her hand. It was a relatively short walk, but there were a lot of twists and turns. She didn't remember how to go back.
"I'll find you later back at your room four hours from now, at 6." Tsukasa turned to walk away, but he turned back. "I forgot to give you this." He fumbled in his pocket and took out a cell phone.
"A cell phone? But we're below water."
"There's a signal receiver on the ship. My number is in there too. The boat is too big; if you get lost, call me. There's also a tracking device in the phone for the other phone. I had it especially installed." This time Tsukasa really left.
Tsukushi narrowed her eyes, tracking device??? What was she? A dog with a leash? But then she realized the tracking device worked both ways. She smiled. Tsukasa finally understood equality. When did he become this considerate? She remembered the beeper he gave her. He made it sound like she had to be at his beck and call, but this time he didn't say that. Is he really changing? She held the phone to her heart and walked in.
A lady working there received her. "How may I help you?"
"Umm," Tsukushi didn't know what to ask for. She's never been in one, but she remembered Doumyoji had said the complete package would take the longest. "The complete package."
While Tsukushi was thinking the saleslady was looking at her up and down. Tsukushi didn't look like a rich girl. She didn't wear makeup, her hair wasn't shiny and voluminous, and her nails were unpolished. "Right this way, can I get your card?" she said in a snotty tone.
"My card?"
"Yes, your key card. If you don't have one then you will have to go somewhere else." Only the rich had a key card.
"Uhh," She dug into her pocket and took out the key to her room, "You mean this one?"
The lady's eyes widened when she saw there was a real key next to her card. "Y-yes." The lady took it over to a register and swiped it. Tsukushi didn't know the key had so many useful functions. The lady gave the key back to her. "I'll bring you in."
Tsukushi noticed the lady's attitude changed. She got annoyed. Everyone always judge people and things through appearance, probably thought she couldn't pay because she didn't look rich. Tsukushi was told to take off her clothes and was given a robe. She felt uncomfortable being naked but she knew she had to.
A different lady was waiting outside her changing room. This one looked to be around the same age as her. She was brought her to the massage room. It was empty with three beds. She thought it was a big room considering it was only for massages. The walls were light red but couldn't be termed pink. There were paintings of flowers on all sides of the room. Tsukushi was told to take off her robe and lie down on the center bed. Tsukushi really didn't want to expose herself but since they were both girls it made it better. She was about to lie down when they heard a noise outside.
"What do you mean this room is being used?" Tsukushi could distinguish it was a girl's voice. "We've always used this room because it is the best of all your rooms, which is why you charge more."
Tsukushi who was inside thought, more? but she didn't ask for it. Then it registered. The shock she saw on the lady when she presented her the key card. The key attached to the card proved that she was Doumyoji's guest and when her card was swiped it was confirmed. And of course, nothing but the best for Doumyoji and his friends. Tsukushi decided to go outside to clear up the problem. She didn't mind using another room. They were all the same to her. Tsukushi moved towards the door. The lady inside with her restrained her. "Don't, let them handle it."
Tsukushi laid a hand on the one on her arm. "It's ok." She opened the door to resolve the hassle. She was surprised at who she saw. It was the three women that had talked to her at the ball. Everyone turned to her.
Masai sneered, "So it's you."
Tsukushi moved to close the door, but Masai put a hand on the door before she could close it in all the way. "I have nothing to say to you." Tsukushi said.
"Oh but I have a lot to say to you. Just because you're with Doumyoji don't think you're better than the rest of us. You're still a poor worthless girl. He'll dump you after he's done using you."
Tsukushi got so mad. Here was a complete stranger thinking she knew everything about her and Doumyoji. She didn't want to cause a scene but she couldn't hold it in anymore. "Who the hell do you think you are? You're just a rich spoiled girl. You're the one that doesn't know anything. No guy will like you let alone Doumyoji or any other rich guys. All you care about is yourself, so go rot in hell with all your other superficial friends. Now leave me alone!" She slapped the hand away from the door, closed it and locked it. "These people infuriate me!"
The lady, who was in the room with her, clapped. "I never thought someone would have the nerve to stand up to them. They're heiresses to very big companies. A word from them and you'll be gone from your job."
Tsukushi had question marks over her head. "Who are they?"
"You mean you didn't know?"
Tsukushi shrugged. She didn't really care who they were. "I faced much worse back in my school. All the people there were rich."
"Is that where you met Doumyoji?"
"How'd you know I'm with him?"
"Well the argument just now and I've seen you around with him on my hours off."
Tsukushi looked at the girl beside her. She didn't think she was an excellent judge of character but she could still differentiate between decent people and conniving people. If she had been truthful to herself she would have known Sakurako and the other girls at Eitoku couldn't be her friends, but she had been so desperate for company. Now she promised she would be truthful to herself, and this girl didn't send off any warning signals. "I didn't introduce myself yet, Makino Tsukushi. Yoroshiku."
"My name is Rikkaida Ryoko. Yoroshiku. Now let's get started on your massage." Tsukushi took off her robe and sat on the boat. She didn't feel as shy as she did in the beginning. Maybe it's because she wasn't stripping in front of a stranger anymore.
Rikkaida was a very good masseuse. They talked about everything. Tsukushi told Rikkaida how she met Doumyoji, the red card, the problems she had with him, his mother and how she ended up being on the boat.
Rikkaida also talked about her own life. Tsukushi found out they were the same age. Rikkaida had to work because she had to support herself. She was an orphan, her parents died in a car accident and there had been no one to take her in. She's been in the orphanage until she was 15. Then she decided to leave and make a living for herself. The people at the orphanage weren't exactly the ideal friends. Everyone was cruel to each other, competition to be placed in a home and leave the hell house. Rikkaida had seen a position open for a masseuse in a store near the orphanage. She applied. She really didn't know much about it but they said they were willing to train. She had learned quickly and soon became really good. When she saw there was a position open on the boat, she signed up for it. She always wanted to travel around the world and the pay was really good. With the glowing recommendations she received from her previous workplace she was able to get the job.
They talked the entire time. Tsukushi had never felt so relaxed. She didn't know whether it was the massage or if Rikkaida was a good listener. They finished in an hour. Tsukushi spent an hour in the Jacuzzi. Rikkaida couldn't join her but she did keep her company since there was no one else she needed to attend to. Her skin felt silky smooth and her muscles were loose, they weren't weighted down anymore. She felt a lot better than she did when she woke up.
Tsukushi went to change back into her original clothing. She took out the cell phone Doumyoji gave her and asked Rikkaida for her room number.
"322."
Tsukushi stored it in and looked around for her number. She finally found it and gave it to Rikkaida. "If you need anything, call me."
Rikkaida smiled, "Arigatou."
Tsukushi smiled back, "I need company other than Doumyoji." Tsukushi left and went to find Doumyoji. She remembered deck 9 was the casino; she had to walk 4 flights down. Once she reached the 9th floor the atmosphere changed. She saw the blinding lights from the slots. There were two guards on each of the staircase to prevent minors. She saw them but continued walking. She didn't expect to be stopped but she was.
"Can I get some ID please," said one of the guards.
"ID?" Tsukushi repeated. She didn't have anything like that. She came onto the boat with just her clothes on. She didn't exactly have time to pack.
"If you don't have ID then you'll have to leave," said the other guard.
Tsukushi didn't know what to do; she just wanted to find Tsukasa. Then she remembered how the lady looked when she saw her key card. Maybe it'll work this time. She took it out and showed the guys. They inspected it and gave it back to her.
"We're sorry for the inconvenience. Please enjoy your stay." Both of the guys bowed and let her pass. Their attitude reversed. Tsukushi rolled her eyes. She looked at the key to see what was so special. It was silver with a square handle. There was an engraving on it. She looked closer and saw that it read Doumyoji. She put the key back in her pocket. "Very useful indeed," Tsukushi thought.
Tsukushi looked around her and didn't know where to start looking for Tsukasa. She remembered the phone he gave her had a tracking device. She took it out and searched for the program. He didn't seem that far from her. From their locations it seemed like they should be within sight distance but she looked around and didn't see him. All she saw was a lot of people beside the card tables. No way, Tsukushi thought. Was he in the middle of the crowd? She pushed her way through. She froze at what she saw. There were three men excluding Doumyoji. They were sitting at a round green table. There was a barrier set between them and the bystanders. What made her pause was the huge amount of chips on the center of the table. They were playing poker. The three men looked to be in their 40s. They were all wearing a suit. Doumyoji only wore slacks, the same ones she saw on him last. It should've made him look out of place but it didn't. His aura of confidence was intense. His sat in a relaxed position, almost as if he was bored but his eyes were sharp and clear, like he could see through his opponents.
This didn't seem like the same man that left her just a few hours ago. Doumyoji had project different faces in different situations. It must be something taught at an early age since they always have to deal with people, like in business meetings or at social gatherings. It made her appreciate Doumyoji's childish side so much more. It was a side he didn't show others, only her and his sister, because they were the only ones he trusted. Even with the F3 he was reserved.
Tsukushi continued to watch. She didn't realize how long. She just kept seeing Doumyoji's chips pile up next to him in a neat stack. It kept growing while the others' were dwindling. One man was starting to sweat. Tsukushi felt bad for him, but then he deserved it by even gambling. Doumyoji probably wouldn't even worry about his money since he didn't earn it.
She saw Doumyoji check his watch once the hand was finished; at the same time she checked hers. It was 5:45, almost time for their meeting. Tsukasa took out his cell phone. He must've used the tracking program because his head immediately lifted from the phone and into the crowd. He searched and saw Tsukushi. Their eyes locked. She waved at him hesitantly. She didn't know how he'd react to seeing her here. She didn't have to wonder long because Tsukasa instantly smiled.
There were a lot of girls behind her who was watching the game only due to Doumyoji. They didn't understand what was so fun about poker but they did know that Doumyoji looked very handsome and cool. When Doumyoji smiled in their direction, they each thought the smile was for them. None of them noticed that his affections were for the girl in front of them who was almost a head shorter.
Tsukushi heard the girls sigh and then start bickering with each other saying that Doumyoji smiling only at her. Tsukushi found them annoying but she felt special because she knew his affections were only for her.
Doumyoji played for a few minutes more and pardoned himself. "Excuse me, I have a prior engagement."
The old man sitting across from him, the one who was sweating a lot, said, "But you must give us a chance to win it all back." Everyone looked at the massive pile of chips Doumyoji had.
"Another time." That was all he said. He snapped his fingers and men in black suits packed up the chips. Tsukushi didn't even notice them. Doumyoji walked towards her. The girls behind her was silent, waiting in anticipation to see whom Doumyoji would pick.
"Shall we go?" Doumyoji offered his hand.
Tsukushi smiled and took it with ease. The girls were left in disbelief. They didn't understand why he would choose someone as plain as that girl.
"Wait, is that the girl that jumped on the boat?" One girl asked.
"Are you kidding me? Her?! That's the girl Doumyoji has been spending all of his time with?!" said another girl.
"It must be, I heard she was very plain and about the same age as him," yet another girl replied.
People around them confirmed it. Some of them had been there when Tsukushi jumped on the boat, and others saw them together. Everyone stared in the direction in which Doumyoji and Tsukushi left.
"I didn't know you played poker."
Tsukasa shrugged, "I play other things, but there were some people that wanted to play me."
Tsukushi pondered, "They probably thought you didn't know how to play and wanted to filch you."
"Most probably." Tsukasa said it with such ease that Tsukushi didn't understand how he could take that so simply. If she found out somebody wanted to steal from her she'd be hysterical or at least mad, Tsukasa showed no emotion. Must be because everyone always wants something from him. She remembered his birthday party. There were a lot of people that wanted him to talk to his father and smooth the negotiations. Tsukasa had been very cold to them. This was the same.
"So how much did you win from them? Hundred thousand or so?" When she said it, she found that appalling, that one person could win so much in such a short time. But she knew she wasn't understating, she saw A LOT of chips. They were in colors she had never seen before she thought different casinos probably have different colors for each amount.
"50 million."
"Huh?" Tsukushi didn't quite hear Doumyoji.
"I won somewhere around $50,985,500."
Tsukushi's eyes bulged. "50 million." She couldn't believe it. "How can a person win so much?"
"It's really easy. They're all millionaires they don't make cheap bets. Each hand had a few million at stake. Actually I didn't win that much, last time I won a billion."
"A billion?!" Tsukushi choked on the word. How could anyone win a billion and be cool about it? "But what about the people that lost?"
"They have money to lose. The people I play with are all rich. Besides I don't think people should pay if they can't play."
"I think you mean they shouldn't play if they can't pay."
Tsukasa's vein was showing. "Doesn't matter."
"You can never get your sayings straight."
"Shut up."
"But Doumyoji, about gambling, what if you lose?"
"I don't lose more than 100 million. When I reach that point I stop playing I'm not going to be an idiot and tell myself that I'll win it back with the next hand. I usually don't gamble when I'm in a bad mood because I know I can't control myself."
Tsukushi looked at Doumyouji in a new light. He wasn't the imbecile she thought he was. He actually knew what he was doing.
They reached the diner and had steak for dinner. She told him all about meeting Rikkaida, she excluded mentioning the three girls because she didn't know what he might do to them. Tsukasa didn't mind simply listening to what she did. She made everything sound important and he was enchanted by the passion with which she recounted her day.
They finished dinner at 9. It was still early so they decided to go to karoke. They went to the entertainment center and made a fool out of themselves in their private karaoke room. They sang until their voice was hoarse, which was around 12.
Tsukushi started yawning and that's when Tsukasa decided to call it a night. They went back to their rooms. Tsukasa kissed Tsukushi on the lips. He was the first to break the kiss. "Good night."
"Good night." Tsukushi went into her room and took a bath. She wore her pajamas and dropped on her bed. She was staring at the adjoining door. Aishiteru Doumyouji.
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I hope everyone liked it! Love it? Hate it? Tell me.
