IMPORTANT NOTE: I do not own anything
CHAPTER 5
Lili walked outside her bathroom and threw herself on her "queen" sized bed. The smile never left her lips. Today was going to make the best of it. See him and of course talk to him. She hoped that he remembered. If not…She was going to remember her swollen ankle and let it all out on Hwoarang. She, still, hadn't figured out "how", since her mind was preoccupied with possible kind of conversations between her and him. If her manager was here, she was probably going to scold her. Wasn't she here for a job? Well, she knew that her client was still a girl in her very early twenties but still, even in love she had to stay professional until the end. In other words, no flirting until she finishes with her job.
The towel unwrapped by itself and revealed Lili's naked body. She didn't try to cover anything and stood up. She squeezed with the towel she had on her head her hair and then threw in on the bed. She had already taken out the pair of underwear she was going to wear and put them on. She opened her wardrobe and saw everything in where it was supposed to be. As it seemed, her manager took care even of this. When it came to dressing or personal things, Lili wanted everything to be in order. She crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. A smirk crossed her lips when she found the appropriate outfit. She remembered that she shouldn't push herself, since she was injured. She took out one of the outfits she wore during a photo shoot to advertise the brand.
Hwoarang was resting his body on the wall next to the door outside Lili's room. Usually, he was going to wait downstairs but when he remembered that her ankle was swollen, he made his way to her room and waited outside. He looked at his wristwatch and noticed that they should leave soon enough. Well, he wasn't worried about the time, since because of the fact that Lili wished to see that guy like crazy, she probably wanted to be there earlier than him. A sigh escaped his lips thinking, how dumb the girls he meets are.
The door opened and Lili appeared. Hwoarang looked at her upside down. She was pretty and she knew what she was doing. Showing all her beauty but she wasn't trying much. She didn't want for her intentions to be that obvious. She turned to her right and was startled to see Hwoarang waiting for her. A smile appeared on her lips something that confirmed his thoughts of the stupidity of the girls, he meets. ..
"Why are you here?" she said first…
Hwoarang bowed and when he raised his head he saw her checking her nails… "I thought that since your ankle is injured I should come and help you get down."
"Hehe…How thoughtful of you? Well…I will allow you to give me a piggyback."
"Huh?" he scratched the back of his head…
"Just kidding! Just lend me your shoulder, ok?"
Hwoarang gave her a nod and placed Lili's arm around his shoulder. What a difficult girl? She was damn tall. That's a model for you. Slowly, they walked the stairs down and he took her to the dining room. Lili dismissed him and sat on her chair. In front of her, she witnessed her usual breakfast. She nodded to herself. Indeed, Lisa was an awesome manager. Lili raised her spoon in order to taste her soup. She found weird the fact that her hand was trembling slightly. What the hell? She shook her head and started eating.
She wiped carefully her mouth and looked at the maid on her left… "Where are my pills?"
Hwoarang rolled his eyes. He remembered that Lisa told him to make sure she doesn't take them frequently and have a balanced diet…
"Yes, ma'am. I'll bring them to you."
"Thank you." Lili opened her bag and took out her lip balm. She placed some of her lips and then put it inside again… "Will you stop staring at me like that, Hwoarang?"
"Please…You shouldn't take those pills with no reason."
Lili looked at him with a mocking smile, which deep down was showing her annoyance. "No reason, you say…I'm sorry but I disagree and tell Lisa that she started this entire "pill thing". It's her responsibility. Don't worry yourself with that."
The maid came back and placed in front of her a glass of water and her pills. Hwoarang looked away. He didn't want to take part in this. Lili stood up and Hwoarang looked at her… "Are you ready? Shall we go?"
She smiled at him and swallowed the rest of the water… "Uh…yes. I don't want us to be late."
They started walking away. Hwoarang had looked at her back there but he didn't notice something important…the pills Lili placed inside her bag…
…
"Come on, Steve. Wake up already." Said his manager trying to get him off the bed…
Even though his manager had told him that he was supposed to go and take him at ten, Steve Fox was there half sleeping. Yesterday, even though he quickly drifted into sleep, he woke up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom and when he went out, he couldn't sleep. For that reason, he decided to hit the bar. That yeah…That sent him immediately to bed…Again. When the older man entered the room, he saw empty bottles on the floor…That guy! He told him to go and rest and he was there getting drunk.
He took the pillow next to the one Steve was resting his head and threw it angrily at him. The man being startled stood up and looked around him. He brought his gaze in front of him and rolled his eyes at the sight of his manager. Waking up from a wonderful dream to see that old guy's face. He yawned and watched his manager approaching him placing a cup of coffee on the drawer next to the bed…
"Have some coffee, before standing up. You're a mess."
Steve stretched his back and turned his body to rest his feet on the floor… "You're a bad omen, man. Seeing your face, while waking up."
"I won't give a comment on that and if you get ready soon, you'll see Lili Rochefort's smiling face instead of mines."
Steve smiled and took the cup in his hands… "Well…That's something I can look forward to…Sweet."
The older man rolled his eyes… "This pervert…I hope he doesn't do anything unnecessary."
"Hey, old man!"
The manager escaped his thoughts and looked at Steve… "W-What?"
"Where are you spacing out?"
"None of your busyness and be quick. Anyway, what did you want?"
"Where are we supposed to meet?" he asked faking a slight piece of interest…
"Uh…On the top floor, where the private restaurant is. I'm informed that both the producer and photographer are already there. So get ready!"
Finally, Steve stood up from the comfortable bed and took off his clothes. The manager rolled his eyes… "What's with this dude? If he wasn't a boxer, he would definitely be a nudist."
Steve, before entering the bathroom, turned to see his manager. The other man returned his gaze and heard him saying… "You go on. I'll see you there."
The man nodded. He took his briefcase and walked to the door… "I'll do that but make sure you're not late. Punctuality is a gift."
Steve waved his hand at him as he muttered… "I don't want it."
…
Thirty minutes later, the door of the elevator opened and Steve walked outside finding himself on the top floor and inside the restaurant. He looked around him and spotted his manager sitting on a table alongside two other men. He sighed. He was in the mood for everything but this. He raised his head and made his way there. His manager noticed him quickly and that made the other two look at where he was looking. They saw Steve Fox approaching them with a smile on his face, an absolutely fake one, as his manager noticed…
"Good morning."
"Good morning. Have a seat Mr. Fox." Said the producer pointing for him the seat next to his manager…
Steve pulled the chair and sat down. His manager cursed him in the inside. What was this guy doing? The photographer was there ready to introduce himself and he was there sitting looking aimlessly around him. He nudged him and Steve turned his head to face him…
"What is it?" he said in a low voice…
"You idiot! The photographer was here ready to introduce himself and you're here taking a seat?" he whispered…
Steve's eyes widened slightly… "That's the photographer? I thought he was a waiter."
"Just leave it to me."
He cleared his throat and said… "Mr. Yamazaki, my client was very happy when I told him that you are the one, who's going to photograph him."
"When did I ever say that?"
Steve gave a nod when he heard him saying…
"Mr. Fox said that for me?"
"Yeah! He has seen the photo shoots you've done with other athletes and was amazed."
"Amazed…Indeed, manager. With the bullshit you're telling them."
All of a sudden, Steve decided to speak… "I hope I won't be a bother to your work. Since I'm not a model…I mean"
The photographer smiled and they continued talking with Steve spacing out and just giving a nod whenever he was asked something…
…
"Hwoarang, wait for me here, ok?"
Lili gave him a last nod and opened the door. She walked inside and soon enough spotted four men sitting on the table right in front of her. However, only one had her whole attention. The man, whose back was facing her and his golden blond hair touching lightly his broad shoulders. With slow, yet determent and graceful steps, she walked there and with one of her smiles, the three of them stared awed at her. Well, who wouldn't when you're having one of the most famous top models smiling at you? Steve noticed that they were looking somewhere else and being intrigued, he did the same. His blue eyes fell on Lili's beautiful tall figure. He knew that she was going to have his whole attention but he didn't expect to see her being so stunning. Her makeup was discreet and her clothes pretty casual and still…He had everyone's eyes on her…As expected of her…
The producer shook his head and pulled a chair for her to have a seat. Lili bowed and thanked the man with a nod after sitting. The photographer was also amused as he was thinking how to photograph her. Every angle of hers was perfect…
"My apologies for being late. We've been stuck into a traffic jam."
"Don't worry. You had informed us."
The producer gave her a reassuring nod and tried to touch her hand, only for Steve to take it in his hands and kiss it. A blush appeared on Lili's cheeks and became deeper as Steve brought his gaze slowly to look at her…
"Charmed."
His manager rolled his eyes, when he noticed the girl being completely red. That guy! He was a natural playboy…No, no playboy…A natural pervert. Hadn't he already seen her? Or is it? He thought when he remembered seeing the producer trying to touch her hand.
Lili gave him a nod, when she noticed his intentions. True…He was her prince. Steve was so annoyed. All these rich old men thinking that they can lay their lewd hands everywhere. Hell no!
Noticing the awkward atmosphere, Steve's manager cleared his throat and said… "Shall we continue? We need to go, as well."
…
When Lili told them that her manager is going to communicate with them, she stood up and bowed… "You will excuse me now."
Lili tried to open the door until she felt someone holding her arm. She hoped that it was him or else she would shout for Hwoarang to come in and beat him up. She turned slowly her head and noticed Steve's gentle gaze. She smiled shyly and looked at the floor. Steve released her and said… "Beautiful as always, Miss Rochefort."
"Uh…Thank you…You're very kind." Suddenly remembering that Steve helped her once again she looked at him straight in the eyes… "And I'm sorry for having you help me…again."
Steve placed his hands inside his pockets… "You're making me sad…Lili. Do you want me to say it again? A "thank you" from your sweet lips is much more preferable than a boring "sorry". And anyway…It wasn't like I can stand sights like that."
Lili waved her hands to stop him… "Can we please not talk about that?"
"You're right. And old man's dirty hands, completely, ruins the mood. It's nice to see you again."
"I feel the same…"
"Really?" he asked lowering his body…
"Yeah…Hehe…Please don't tease me like that."
They both laughed and when Steve managed to compose himself said once again… "To be honest, I wasn't going to accept the job, since I don't like to meddle with things I'm not supposed to…But when my manager said that you would be my partner, I realized that I don't want anyone to pose with you and touch you except me."
"You're being irresponsible here…Do you really believe that?"
"Since my words can't convince you, I'll show you what I mean in just two days."
Lili giggled and he scratched the back of his head. His manager was watching them from the time the others left. He was ready to start hitting his head on the wall with every word he was hearing from Steve's mouth. What kind of twisted pervert was this boy? In the end, he couldn't just leave the girl here, even though she didn't seem bothered by his flirting but Steve was playing around as always…
"Steve, we need to go…Oh Miss Rochefort, I didn't have the time to welcome you. Nice to meet you."
"Nice to meet you, sir."
"Steve."
The man looked at him and rolled his eyes. He looked at her again and said… "Say, Lili…Do you want us to take you somewhere?"
The girl waved her hands… "No, thank you…My bodyguard is here as well." She said spotting Hwoarang as he opened the door…
Both Steve and Hwoarang's eyes widened as they looked at each other. Steve's manager started walking and Steve, after saying goodbye to Lili, followed him…
A sly smile appeared on his lips and said silently but making sure Hwoarang heard him… "Bodyguard, eh? You seem good…Hwoarang."
The same smile appeared on Hwoarang's lips… "Same goes for you…Steve."
Thankfully, Lili was looking for something inside her bag and didn't see them. When she noticed Hwoarang standing in front of her, she started walking…
"Hwoarang, let's go!"
The man walked faster to reach her and asked her… "Back home?"
Lili stopped and smiled… "Certainly not! I was intending to return this passport."
He nodded and followed her outside the hotel. When they reached the car, he opened the door for Lili and then opened his own…
"Fuck! I thought that they already left. What a bad omen? Bumping into that guy. I wasn't mentally prepared in dealing with that bastard."
He turned on the engine and drove off…
…
"Xiaoyu?"
The Chinese girl placed her bag on her shoulder and as she heard Asuka's voice, turned to see her… "What is it?"
"You're leaving already?" she said again watching her friend taking out her keys…
She stayed still for a moment recalling her schedule for today. She sighed in the inside as she remembered what awaited for her from the time she was going to walk outside the dorm. She raised her head and watched Alisa combing gently Asuka's short dark brown hair. What a stupid day?! She hadn't spent any "quality" time with Alisa. She was a terrible "Onesan". Her lips turned downwards and the other two glanced at each other…
"Xiao-onesan? What's wrong?" asked Alisa and a concerned frown appeared on her face…
She shook her head and smiled after noticing that she worried Alisa… "I'm sorry for worrying you, Alisa. Anyway…I'll be out most of the day, so don't wait for me, ok?"
"Uh…yeah…You have both to go to the university and then at work, right?"
Xiaoyu nodded… "Since you know, why did you ask me?"
A sigh escaped her lips… "Whatever, I'm off." Xiaoyu opened the door but stopped when she heard Alisa…
"Take care, onesan!"
Xiaoyu closed the door and walked back inside the dorm making her way to where Alisa and Asuka were. She placed some of Alisa's hair behind her ear and gave her a light peck on the cheek… "Same to you." She touched Asuka's shoulder making her look at her… "And you make sure after you finish to take Alisa somewhere and have fun, ok?"
Asuka was ready to say something but Xiaoyu had already exited the room…
The two girls heard the door being locked from the outside and the faint footsteps of Xiaoyu's walking the stairs down. Alisa continued combing Asuka's hair and said… "Xiao-onesan is doing her best."
From her position, Asuka gave her a slight nod… "Exactly! It may not seem so…by first glance, I mean…but she's a real hardworker."
"Asuka-san?"
"What is it?" she answered and turned on the TV…
"What did Xiao-onesan meant when she said "after you finish"?"
"You're talking about that…Now that you mentioned it, I've never told you about my job."
"True…You haven't."
A playful grin appeared on Asuka's lips and turned to face Alisa, when the latter finished with taking care of her hair… "What about you find out?"
"You will tell me?"
Noticing that there wasn't anything good on TV, she turned it off and stood up from the chair making her way towards the kitchen… "I can explain it. You can come with me and see."
"I'm allowed to be at your working place?"
Asuka sighed when she remembered what she was going to come across today again… "Believe me…You are the last one, they will consider as a bother."
"Huh?"
…
Hwoarang parked the car in front of the dormitories. Poor guy, he didn't know that he was going to see for the third time that girl, who for an unknown reason, was getting on his nerves. On the other hand, he was "weird" not "poor". What did Asuka do to him in the first place? He walked outside the car and made his way to open the door for Lili, only to notice that she was already outside the car. He sighed and locked the car. He looked around him for any suspicious people. Thankfully, there were no people around. Strange…Isn't this a university dorm? Whatever…
Lili walked towards the entrance and opened the passport. The address was correct. She turned her head and noticed Hwoarang standing behind her. She gave him the passport… "It's here, Hwoarang."
The man nodded and said… "Yeah…What about we call them?"
Lili smiled and pressed the button…
…
"Alisa, can you hand me that pink towel?" said Asuka Kazama when she finished washing the dishes…
Don't be surprised…It's not like she wanted to do it but ok…She would hate herself if she didn't. Yesterday, Xiaoyu stayed up for her until she fell asleep, since because of her stomach she started throwing up. When she woke up this morning she saw her sitting at the edge of the bed next to her pillow, with her head hanging in front of her. Asuka felt terribly bad. Xiaoyu was always taking care of her. She, at least, had to do something to thank her or…to make herself feel better…
"Here, Asuka-san." Said Alisa with a smile and handed her the towel…
The two started walking outside the kitchen, with Asuka whining about how bored she was to go to work. Suddenly, the bell was heard and they looked at each other. Could it be that Xiaoyu forgot something? But she had her own keys. They didn't wait for anyone. Asuka shrugged her shoulders and walked to pick up the entryphone. She cleared her throat and answer…
"Who is it?...Yes, that's me. What do you want with me? Seriously?! You're not kidding with me, are you? That's a relief. I'll open the door for you to come up."
She closed the entryphone and made her way to unlock the door. Alisa walked with quick steps to her side and asked her… "Who was it? Was it Xiao-onesan in the end?"
Asuka shook her head and smiled at her… "You remember when I said that I lost my university passport?"
She nodded and heard her again…
"Some gal found it and she's going to give it to me now."
"That's good news, Asuka-san!"
Soon enough, there was a knock on the door and Asuka managing her best smile opened the door. Her jaw was dropped at the sight in front of her. Hwoarang felt the same way, since he didn't want to accept the fact that the brat he bumped onto the other day was the same brat, who was talking with Lili when they were at the park. But this girl…Did she know that the passport was hers? Why didn't she tell him anything? Or why didn't she let the girl know that they had her passport all along? Could it actually be that she wanted to meet with her again? Is she that desperate when it comes to friends?
"It's y-you…" muttered Asuka…
Lili smiled and nodded. She shook her head and before turning to face Lili the corner of her eye took notice of that bastard, aka Hwoarang. Now that she thought of this better, she lost it when she bumped into someone the other night. Was he that guy? Definitely! They were similar in every way. From body to stupidity and rudeness. She managed a smile when she remembered that she had the one and only Lili Rochefort in front of her…
"Come in, please."
Lili bowed slightly and accepted her invitation… "Thank you."
"Don't mention it! It's a little messy though."
"What are you talking about? It's not like you knew someone was coming, right? And on the other hand, it feels warm."
Asuka and Alisa nodded… "Well duh! Of course it does. We have the convector heater on."
Hwoarang placed a hand on his forehead as he heard her… "What a dumb person? And she says that as a matter of fact. Lili meant the other thing."
"Have a seat." She said and Lili sat on the couch. Asuka lowered her body and asked her…
"Would you like to drink anything? What about some coffee?"
Lili waved her hand… "Thank you but I'm not allowed to drink things like these. Pretty lame, right? But I can't do otherwise."
Asuka nodded… "I get it. You mean that "calorie thing", right?"
Lili nodded with a smile…
"What about some fresh orange juice then? Xiaoyu…Oh I mean, my roommate made some."
"Xiaoyu? Could it be that she's roommates with that dumb girl? Maybe…since that pink haired girl is here. I won't say anything for now."
After that thought of his, Hwoarang took a seat beside Lili, only to hear Asuka's annoying voice…
"Why are you sitting?
Hwoarang looked confused at her, who was having her arms crossed. Suddenly, Lili giggled and placed her hand on her mouth. Both Hwoarang and Asuka looked at her and Lili glanced at them with the corner of her eyes… "My apologies…Could it be that you refer to what I said the other day? Clever!"
"I was completely serious…Anyway, they brought my passport, so I'll let it go. Just joking! You can sit."
Hwoarang rolled his eyes and sat down… "Tsk…Joking? She was dead serious. What a hateful girl?"
"So? What about that juice?"
Lili gave her a nod and saw as Asuka made her way in the kitchen. However, she stopped her with her voice… "Ermm…Umm…Miss…Asuka?"
The brunette turned her head… "What is it? Did you change your mind?"
She shook her head and then turned at Hwoarang… "Hwoarang?"
"Yes?"
"Give her the passport."
The man stood up and walked to her place. He took out of his pocket the passport and handed it to her. Asuka took it in her hands and then raised her gaze to look at his eyes… "I hope you didn't put any curse on it."
"You sure think highly of yourself. Like I would bother with a plain girl like you?"
"Huh? Say what, you idiot?!"
Hwoarang made his hands in fists… "Who are you calling an idiot, you eyesore?!"
"How dare you insult me inside my own house?"
"That's the only thing I can do inside your house."
"You bastard…Grr…"
"Damned witch…Grr…"
Lili and Alisa noticed them barking at each other, with the latter having already served some juice for Lili… "Hwoarang!?"
"Asuka-san? Please, calm down." Said Alisa touching her shoulders…
A frown appeared on Lili's face and bowed… "In the end, I should have just given you the passport. I don't know why he's like this today."
"Today?! He was exactly like that yesterday. Hateful!"
"My apologies."
Asuka sighed and managed a smile. She noticed that Alisa had already given some juice to Lili and thanked her by nodding her head to her direction… "Don't mention it! What about we talk about something else?"
"Sure! What thing?"
Asuka and Alisa sat down on the opposite couch and the first said… "What about your commercial? When do you have it?"
"Actually, my commercial is scheduled for the next week. The day after tomorrow, I have a photo shoot."
"P-Photo shoot?!" said Asuka and stood up in an instant…
Lili was taken aback by this… "Y-yeah…What's wrong?"
Alisa smiled remembering what Xiaoyu told her… "Actually…Asuka-san becomes very spirited when it comes to photography."
"Alisa?! How did…"
The pink haired girl gave her a shy smile and looked at her lap. Asuka realized that it was Xiaoyu who told her… "That girl! She can't keep a secret."
There was a moment of silence, until Lili said… "I'm not positive about the first day but…you can join me on the second day."
Asuka's eyes widened because of what she heard. She fell on her knees and made her way in front of her in that position. She touched Lili's lap and said… "You're serious or you're kidding?"
Lili smiled and touched her hand… "I'm serious!"
Tears started falling from her eyes, something that disgusted Hwoarang, and bowed in front of her… "You're an amazing and nice person…Lili-sama!"
"But what if you have something to do?"
Asuka stood up quickly and crossed her arms… "I don't think I have and even if I did…I would cancel everything. That's one in a million chance!"
"Hehe…You are, indeed, spirited."
…
Two girls walked outside the university, the exhaustion was obvious on their faces. They sighed in unison and started making their way to the exit…
"Did you understand anything inside there?" said the girl and placed her books inside her bag…
The other shook her head and sighed once again… "You kidding? It would be a miracle, if I did. I mean since we're talking about me."
"Same here…I completely sympathize."
"I guess the only thing we can do is…our best."
The other girl nodded… "Indeed…Some seniors said that she's kinda "stingy" when it comes to grades."
"You saying this made things even worse."
Soon enough they exited the campus and stopped their pace…
"Say, Xiaoyu-chan?"
"Yes?" she turned to face the girl after checking the time and noticing that she was going to be late…
"Would you like to go grab a bite?"
Xiaoyu placed her hands together in a pray like position. She sighed and said… "Sorry, Mio! Definitely next time. I have to go to work now."
The girl nodded and touched her shoulder. She smiled at her… "What are you talking about? But you still work at that flower shop?"
Xiaoyu nodded and smiled… "Yup! It's been two years now but they raised my salary, so it would be a waste to let go of the job."
"Of course, you're right! Anyway, I'll be going. Do your best, ok?" said the girl and started walking away after waving goodbye...
Xiaoyu watched her until she turned to the first corner. She had a smile on her face while watching her. She really wanted to go with her. The last thing she wanted to do was to go to work. She took out her cell phone and saw that no one called her. It seems that these two are having fun together. She said in the inside thinking about how Alisa and Asuka were doing. She placed the phone inside her bag again and started walking at her work place…
"I guess, I have to do my best, huh?" she said to herself…
…
"Why the hell did you do that?!" said Asuka Kazama and grabbed the ear of one of her students…
The little boy's ear became immediately red but his "sensei" didn't seem to care. And why would she? That kid was her three times a week nightmare. He had a talent but he was serving direct and "actual" blows towards the other students. All her students were leaving with bruises on their legs and arms. Good thing she didn't have any complaints coming from the "victims'" parents…
"Asuka-sensei, it hurts!"
"Shut up!" she said… "Did I tell you to hit her? See? Her nose is bleeding." For a moment she stopped and looked at Alisa… "By the way, Alisa, thanks for taking care of her."
"Don't mention it!"
"Back to you now! Did you…"
"But isn't this the purpose, sensei?" said the student interrupting her…
"HUH?! And you dare interrupt me on top of that? Just like a doctor, who still hasn't finished his studies, can't treat a patient, you can't fight someone until you hone your skills."
Suddenly, she heard someone clapping and that person took her attention. She released the boy and bowed in front of the man… "Welcome, Boss!"
"Raise your head. That was so insightful of you, Kazama-sensei." Said the man and Asuka raised her head…
"By the way, who's that sweet lady?"
Asuka scratched the back of her head… "Uh…A friend of mines. She came to visit me and, you know, I didn't want to leave her alone. Is it a bother?"
The man shook his head and looked at Alisa… "What's your name?"
Alisa smiled and bowed… "I'm Alisa, pleased to meet you."
"Nice to meet you, too…Uh…What a polite girl…I mean, unlike you, Kazama-sensei."
"Huh?!"
"HAHAHAHA!" The kids started laughing at her and Asuka gave them a murderous glare…
"Shut up, you guys! Don't laugh at your sensei!" she turned to the man once again… "And what do you mean with that?"
The middle aged man crossed his arms and a feeling of nostalgia entered his soul… "I still remember the day, when you came to apply for the job."
…
Two years ago…
"Are you here to sign up, little girl?"
The girl raised an eyebrow irritated and handed him the paper, he had outside the dojo, which was saying that he wanted a substitute teacher. The man looked at it and got suspicious… "So?"
"Huh?! Definitely, not! I'm here for the job of the substitute teacher."
He looked at her upside down. She expected that but it still managed to annoy her. She crossed her arms and heard him saying… "You?"
"What do you mean, old man? Why not me?"
He stayed silent…
"What are you looking at? I hope you won't spout bullshit in front of me like "I'm a girl" or "I'm young". I can show you my abilities any time."
A smile crossed the man's lips… "Hehe…Is that so? What's your fighting style?"
A grin full of pride crossed Asuka's lips. She touched her chin and said… "Oh that! I'm the successor of the Kazama Style Karate."
"You have your own fighting style? Pretty interesting."
"See?"
"Ok…You're tenacious. I'll test you. Follow me."
Thirty minutes later…
Asuka Kazama was kneeling in front of the older man, who had a proud smile on his face. With a trembling voice she managed to say to the man…
"Forgive me, Master…I won't take any more of your time. Please, don't look at me while I'm leaving this dojo."
The man started laughing and said as he patted her head… "Raise your head, child."
Asuka raised her head slowly and saw the man smiling at her… "You're good! I'll give you the job."
She stood up in an instant and started shaking the man's shoulders… "You're not lying, right? I took the job, didn't I?"
He stopped her and gave her a nod…
"I expect good things from you."
Asuka bowed in front of him… "I'll do my best and not disappoint you, Master! Please, take care of me."
…
"Wonderful memories, right Kazama-sensei?" he said and looked at her…
"You think so, Master? I don't…"
"Huh?"
Asuka touched with her hand the edge of her left eyebrow and felt the small scar… "I was so excited when you gave me the job that I didn't notice the scar you gave me on my eyebrow. Good thing, my roommate noticed it and took care of it."
The man rolled his eyes and touched his forehead… "You were the one, who rushed out of the dojo, that time…But ok... Marking a beautiful girl's face must be considered a crime. My apologies."
The younger girl crossed her arms… "I can hand you to the police whenever you want."
"Hehe…Anyway, Kazama-sensei, have you finished with your session?"
"Uh…yeah."
Suddenly, her students were heard and she "barked" at them… "Shut it or else I'll make you do pushups!"
"You sure are strict."
"You think? I thought you were gonna tell me that I was going too easy on them."
He shook his head… "I asked you since I finished as well and decided to close a little earlier."
Asuka nodded… "Yeah, we did."
"Good, then! I'll see them off, sensei, so you can go."
The girl nodded and looked at her students, who were just standing there. As they noticed her expression, they remembered what they had to do and created a line in front of her. Asuka smiled arrogantly and waited for them to do as she taught them. After a pause, the entire class bowed waiting for her to walk outside. Asuka motioned for Alisa to follow her and they left the man standing there dumbfounded along with the children…
…
After Asuka finished with dressing herself, they walked outside the dojo and stopped. Alisa looked confusingly at her, since she was lost in thought. Asuka remembered what Xiaoyu told her about having fun with Alisa. The thought of calling her entered her mind but she dismissed it thinking that she shouldn't bother her at work. What to do now? She wondered for some time until she decided to go with the safe solution…
"Alisa?"
The pink haired girl looked at her… "Yes?"
"What about we go and watch a movie?"
Alisa placed her hand under her chin. The girl next to her worked really hard today. Dealing with little kids, who weren't listening to her and make sure they understand what she taught them. Wasn't she tired?
"Aren't you tired, Asuka-san?"
"Eh? Actually not really. I'm used to these brats. Well?"
She gave her a smile and nodded… "Sure! Thank you."
"Why is she thanking me? Good! But I don't have money with me. Let's go back home first for me to have a shower as well, ok?"
…
Ling Xiaoyu opened the door of the store she was working and a bell was heard. The owner appeared in front of her and Xiaoyu bowed in respect. She looked around her and didn't see any customers. The shop was usually busy these hours. The older woman walked next to her and touched her shoulder…
"Xiaoyu-chan, you're here already?"
The girl touched her hand and squeezed it lightly. This woman had been very kind to her and she was the one who raised her salary. Well, who else would it be, since she owned the place? Xiaoyu walked further inside to leave her personal things and wear her apron. When she walked outside she saw the woman serving them some tea…
"I didn't want to trouble you, ma'am, by being late."
"Trouble me?" she said and placed a cup of tea in front of her… "You're brighter than any flower here."
Xiaoyu smiled and thanked her for the tea. If Asuka was here, she would have probably thrown it inside one of the flower pots. She had a sip from her drink and placed it again on the table… "You just want to flatter me, ma'am…Hehe."
The woman raised an eyebrow… "Why would I do that? I'm not a man trying to pick you up."
They both laughed at this but the woman continued… "Now that's the two of us…I always wanted to tell you this. Yes, there are some young men, who came to flirt with you in these two years that you work here. I always notice that you look at the floor and when you are able to manage a smile, you would just say that they were been kind…Now that I'm thinking of it. You don't even blush!"
Xiaoyu, noticing that the woman would continue talking, touched slightly her hand and said… "You're overthinking it, I believe…I'm just not used to compliments…That's all there is to it."
"Sweetie?"
The door was heard and a customer walked inside. The two of them bowed to the customer and Xiaoyu approached the young woman in front of her. Her boss looked at the back of her young employee. She was certain that something must have happened to that girl or maybe, she had already a boyfriend and she hasn't told her anything. Well, she wasn't obliged to tell her…
The woman was watching as Xiaoyu was talking to the customer. Suddenly, the back door opened and a young man in his uniform appeared. He placed his hands on his lap and tried to catch his breath.
"A…A…Auntie, I brought them."
The woman looked at the young man and nodded… "Just in time, Kyo-kun. They called again and said for us to deliver the flowers there."
"ARE THEY FUCKING KID…"
"Shh…Quiet! We have a customer."
The boy sighed and took off his gloves… "Didn't they say that they would send one of their men to take them? What's with this?"
"I know…But…These people, you see…"
"I definitely know… We are a large company, do as we say!"
"You're exaggerating a little."
"Like hell I do!" he said and hit with his fist the table…
The same time, Xiaoyu appeared from behind him with a worried expression on her face…
"What's wrong?"
The young man smiled at her… "You're here, Xiaoyu-chan? You heard that all?"
She crossed her arms and looked at the floor… "Even the customer did."
The owner looked at the boy and said… "Kyo-kun? You have to deliver them."
"But auntie? If I go there I will probably explode the whole building?"
The woman nodded to herself knowing that there was a big chance for that to actually happen. For a moment, she noticed Xiaoyu walking away and an idea entered her mind. Without thinking further about it, she said…
"Xiaoyu-chan?"
The girl looked behind her. The woman smiled and motioned for her to walk closer. She looked at the boy and then back to Xiaoyu…
"Umm…ma'am, what is it?"
"Can I ask a favor from you, child?"
Xiaoyu pointed at herself and the woman nodded… "Can you accompany Kyo-kun to help him with this delivery? If they see him and with how he's dressed right now, they will probably kick him out before telling them that he delivered the flowers."
Xiaoyu started laughing but stopped when she noticed that the boy was looking at her. She apologized and he shook his head dismissing her…
"But is this company that big of a deal?"
The man sighed… "You kidding? Well, duh! We're talking about the massive Mishima Group."
Her eyes widened and her body froze. Why did they have to send flowers to the Zaibatsu? The other two were looking concerned at her direction. The woman stood up and grabbed lightly her shoulders… "Xiaoyu-chan, are you alright?"
She was startled by her boss' touch and looked confused at her… "W-What is it?"
"You spaced out, honey."
"Oh…Anyway, a company like them…Why do they need flowers?"
"My thoughts exactly!"
The woman sighed and poured some more tea for herself. She added some sugar and looked at her two employees… "As I heard they're having a gathering tonight…You know…CEOs, businessmen and such…"
"We got it, auntie!" the boy turned his gaze to Xiaoyu and bowed in front of her confusing her… "I beg of you, Xiaoyu-chan! I hate this kind of people and I don't know how to deal with them. Please come with me."
Xiaoyu looked at the woman, who nodded at her and she said… "O-Ok…I'll come. It's not like I'm gonna see him or for him to be there. He's the CEO, after all. Top floor."
The boy smiled at her and she smiled weakly back at him…
…
A young black haired man was sitting inside his limousine. He had a stiff and aloof expression on his face. He was going to get wrinkles very soon since his expression has been the same for three years now. He touched his forehead and sighed. He brought his right hand to the collar of his shirt and untied his tie leaving it standing there around his neck. This whole thing was suffocating and a stupid tie was making things even worse. How long was this going to continue? He turned his gaze outside the window. There was nothing to take his attention except something…A couple…Everyone could see the happiness in the woman's face as she was holding her lover's arm and talking to him…He was so envious of them but he didn't dare saying it out loud…
The back door of the black limousine opened and a man said… "Sir, your grandfather is here."
He gave him a nod and watched the older man, who everyone called his grandfather, walking inside the car. He took the seat beside him and looked at him. He decided to let it be for now and the older man turned his attention to the driver… "Start the car."
The man nodded and turned on the engine…
"Don't tell me, you're going to appear like this to the party, Jin."
He changed his position on the car seat and fixed the tie around the collar of his shirt. He never made eye contact with the man people called his grandfather. For Jin, this man was everything but a family member… "Do I really have to appear? I dislike this whole party thing."
"You must be joking. If I remember correctly, you didn't have a problem back in high school."
It was the first time today that he looked at his grandfather's direction… "Just as you said…Back in high school. I'm no longer there."
Heihachi Mishima smiled to himself. He was positive that Jin was going to be just as he wanted him to. He was using him mostly to annoy and hurt Kazuya, his son. He never told Jin but his father even begged him to let him take him back home. Of course, after the humiliation Heihachi went through when people of their circle found out that Kazuya chose a random woman to impregnate and then get married to, he wasn't going to let him off that easily. Having Jin next to him would torture both of his parents…
"I'm glad you're saying that. And remember, Jin…These parties are busyness not happy time."
"Then why are people holding them?"
Heihachi sighed annoyed by his grandson's attitude. He decided to not push the subject any further. As it seemed he had a long way to go until he completely could have every control on him…
"You didn't answer me…Must I really come?"
"I didn't because there's no answer. You're definitely coming and change that expression of yours. You're becoming an eyesore just like your father."
Jin turned away from him and looked outside the window… "I wish I was like my father…Even now…That I can crush this hateful man in the palm of my hand…I hesitate to do it."
"Jin? We'll go first at the office. We'll need…no, I mean…You will have to make some phone calls. And not to mention that these worthless beings must be still preparing the place"… "Are you listening, Jin?"
He heard the older man's voice and turned to see him… "Uh…Sigh…I do."
…
A white small van parked some meters away from the Mishima Zaibatsu's main entrance. It would be a complete failure to park the car just right in front of the entrance. A man and a woman opened the doors and walked outside the car…
"Here we are…" said the man to the young woman next to him…
They both looked at the entrance and spotted a security guard standing there. How come they only had one? Weird…Well, they weren't here to care about that. The boy opened the back door of the van and said as he started taking out the flowers… "Xiaoyu-chan? Go and ask that guy to where we are supposed to take the flowers."
Xiaoyu nodded and having the receipt and card in her hand, she walked to the place where the guard was. She climbed quickly the stairs and made her way to the man. He looked at her upside down and she bowed in front of him…
"What do you want here, girly?"
"G-Girly? If it wasn't for the flowers I…Whatever…We came to deliver the flowers. Here is the card. I believe they have informed you." She said and handed him the card…
The man looked at it and took out something which resembled a phone. Soon enough he dropped the call and nodded in front of Xiaoyu… "Oh yeah! They told me just now."
"Ok…Can you tell us where we can take them?"
The man spotted the white van and the young man, who was taking out the flowers. He looked at Xiaoyu and pointed at the car… "Yeah, that's our store's car. Please, tell us."
"We will take them in from the back door. Then, it's the decorators' busyness in what to do with them."
"That's t-true…Shall I inform my partner, then?"
"I'll help you, Miss."
She waved her hands to decline his suggestion… "You don't have to."
"I insist. The sooner we finish the better. The last thing I want is to see the old man Mishima going senile and start bickering…not that the grandson is much better but he, at least, doesn't pay attention."
"Is that so? Well…I wouldn't like to get you into trouble, so I'll accept your help." Said Xiaoyu and started walking to where the van was…
"Good! What a pretty girl?"
Xiaoyu and the guard appeared in front of the boy, who had almost taken out all the flowers and the flower pots. The young man bowed in front of the guard and said… "It will be a great help to tell us where to take them."
"I will help you, kid."
"Really?! We appreciate it. Xiaoyu-chan sure can deal with everyone!"
The guard turned to Xiaoyu once again and said… "Miss, why don't you go and take your payment? The receptionist said to go and see her."
"Uh…I just enter the building and I see the reception, right? Nothing complicated."
The man nodded… "Yes. She's waiting for you. Show her the receipt and she'll manage the rest."
"Thank you so much!"
With that Xiaoyu turned her back to them and made her way inside the Mishima Zaibatsu…
…
Soon enough, the young boy with the guard's help had placed the flowers inside the back door. They walked back and the boy decided to wait for Xiaoyu, instead of going to the van. He started talking with the guard about different things and just in time they noticed the black limousine stopping in front of the building. The guard started panicking and turned to look at the boy. He whispered…
"They're here!"
"Who?" he asked…
"Both grandfather and grandson. You don't have time to leave. Stand straight beside me."
"Uh…Y-Yeah…Where are you, Xiaoyu-chan?"
The two men started walking to the entrance of their company's office. Heihachi was walking first with a proud and conceited expression on his face. Even the way he was carrying himself was showing how low he was thinking of other people, even those of his kind. Some steps behind him there was his grandson. He seemed aloof and indifferent…However, this look changed when…
Ling Xiaoyu walked outside the Mishima Zaibatsu after putting the check inside a safe place in her bag. Thankfully, this whole thing ended and felt her heart, indeed, lighter. With quick steps she tried to climb the stairs down until she stopped and felt her body going numb. The only thing she could feel was his name on her lips as she whispered it…
"J-Jin…"
The same thing happened with Jin, who felt his shoulders trembling… "Xiao…" he said her name silently, even though he thought for a moment that she heard him…
Heihachi stopped for a moment and turned to look at him… "Will you move it already? We are already late." He started walking again when he noticed his grandson approaching him…
Xiaoyu stood there watching them climbing the stairs and towards her direction. She started panicking not because of the sight of Heihachi Mishima, she knew the kind of his, but because of Jin. She was so embarrassed. Being a complete coward she gazed at the floor, until she felt a hand pushing her away making her lose her balance and fall from the stairs. Her eyes widened and saw Jin's worried eyes and his extended hand. She tried to grab it unconsciously and not caring, if people found out about their past together. He had exactly the same thing inside his mind. Their hands touched each other, however, the young man was the one, who managed to catch her. Realizing what he just did, Jin held his hand with the other and tried to compose himself. Heihachi without stopping said… "Move it, Jin. What are you doing there standing like an idiot?"
The black haired man started following him until a voice made even the older man stop…
"How dare you do that to me, you bastard!?"
"Xiaoyu-chan?!"
"Xiao?"
The two men behind her were dumbfounded. Heihachi turned to see her and noticed a short young woman with her hands in fists. She had some guts, he had to admit that…
"Who are you?"
Xiaoyu managed a mocking smirk… "What an honor? Having Heihachi Mishima asking for my name? Like hell I'm gonna tell you. Because of the likes of you I twisted my ankle."
"Is that so? That has nothing to do with me. Be happy I'm not telling him to beat you up."
"HUH?! And then you call yourself a man? But what am I saying? You people of the "high society" are the worst. Not even doing your dirty jobs by yourselves. Hiring assassins and such."
Heihachi stayed silent but in the end smiled. Jin was watching him suspiciously all this time. He wasn't going to hold back now. If he was to try anything "funny", Heihachi would leave the party beheaded. Heihachi walked passed him and made his way towards her. He noticed the girl's piercing glare straight in his eyes. That was something interesting. Xiaoyu stood there looking at him. He was even scarier up close but she wouldn't back down. He raised his hand and she was ready to accept a hit right on the top of her head. However, she didn't feel anything and raised her head. She saw Jin from behind his grandfather grabbing his wrist…
"Jin?"
"Grandfather, we should go. Let's not waste any other time here."
Heihachi took his hand away from his grandson's grip and nodded. He turned away but he stopped for a moment… "You're some interesting young lady!"
After that the two men walked away. Xiaoyu was there left dumbfounded, along with the other two…
In the end, the young man said… "Xiaoyu-chan? Shall we go back?"
It was now that she noticed where this man was touching her. One of his hands hugging slightly her waist and the other holding her hand. She moved away awkwardly…No, she was careless…
Xiaoyu nodded and gave him a smile… "Yeah…The old woman will start worrying."
…
The elevator to the top floor opened and Heihachi walked outside alongside Jin. He took off his jacket and threw it on the leather chair. He smiled once again remembering what just happened… "That was some interesting girl." He said and watched Jin closing the door… "I wish I could play with her a little."
"Over my dead body!" said Jin in the inside and walked further inside…
Heihachi crossed his arms as he noticed Jin's expression. It wasn't the indifferent or aloof one. It was the first time, he was seeing it…
"You look awful. Did anything happen?"
Jin looked away from his grandfather. At first, he stayed silent but thought that if he did, Heihachi wouldn't stop bothering him… "Nothing…Just thinking that it would be wiser for you to make these phone calls…If you want for your job to succeed."
"Alright! I'll let it slide this time since that girl entertained me back there. However, make sure you change that annoying look on your face. It irritates me."
Jin felt his heartbeats rising. He tried to compose himself but he was unable… "Enough already! I know how to play the part, so stop pissing me off!"
He spoke these words and made his way to the bathroom… "Where are you going?"
"To the bathroom."
"Good. Was your face. You need to snap out of it."
…
Jin shut the door behind him. He took off his black jacket throwing it on the white floor. He did the same with his tie and unbuttoned his shirt. He opened the faucet and placed his whole head inside the sink. He felt the cold water on his skin but still he couldn't calm down. He closed the faucet and stood up. His shoulders were trembling uncontrollably and his lips were pursed the whole time. He sat on the floor with his back resting on the wall. He buried his face inside his hands…
"What was that…I didn't expect to see her, even though I wanted it so much…And that guy…Who was he? And how dare he? How dare he…Call her name so shamelessly? Touch her body so freely…I'm the only allowed to do that! No one else! What is this man to you, Xiao? Is he more important than me? It can't be, right? I'm so restless…So frustrating…Damn it!"
He raised his head and looked at his hands… "But our hands touched…That's enough for now. Thank you…"
Entry six: Whispering your name makes me…numb.
Thanks for reading!