Chapter 14

A.N. OKAY, I KNOW I SAID THAT SOPHIA'S ON AN ALL LIQUID DIET BUT I WROTE THIS SCENE OUT BUT I HAD ALREADY FALLEN IN LOVE WITH IT SO I'M KEEPING IT IN HERE BUT AFTER SHE'S BACK TO THE LIQUID DIET FOR THREE WEEKS XD

(Kaoru's POV)

Sophia smiles, taking Kozue's hand and they both run a head of us. Far enough away to have peace but close enough to hear. Sophia explains the situation

"And then they were all in front of my house!"

Kozue laughs, tossing her head back "Oh my gosh I wish I'd seen that!"

I smile softly, watching the sun shine down on both of them. Their rosy cheeks and bubbly laughter as Sophia strangles air with her hands, bringing more laughter from Kozue. "Oh my god, I wanted to kill him!"

I see Baki walking beside me, a small smile on his lips as well and I glance down at him.

"Baki?" he glances at me, his hands stuffed in his pocket "You were right, what you said to me at the peer three years ago, you were right. I didn't understand it then...I'm sorry."

..

..

We walk into the school and Sophia pause, seeing all eyes on her, she grabs Kozue's hand "Why are they all staring at me?"

"Maybe it has something to do with 'OUT OF THE WAY KAORU'S GIRLFRIEND COMING THROUGH" Kozue teases

"Oh god... I shouldn't have told you that much..." Kozue throws her head back, laughing as she pulls into the hallway.

"You have to admit that was glorious!"

(Sophia's POV)

I wasn't sure it was possible but thanks to this morning's outburst I had somehow managed to top my two earlier bouts of embarrassment. You'd think almost dying in school or being involved in a school shooting would be the worst but everyone all but cleared the halls when I walked by. The gossip and notes taped all over my locker would be enough but the smirks of judgement and smug remarks were pissing me off.

"I swear if I hear one more person whisper 'masochist' I'm going to punch someone!"

"Miss Jones!"

I couldn't help but roll my eyes as a familiar voice yells across the school "FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!" I spin to see Detective Yanase walking up to me "What do you want?!"

"Don't get snippy with me girl!" he snaps his police ID in my face "I'm here to get your signature."

"For what?"

"For the body in your brother's grave to be exhumed considering he is still alive."

I wasn't sure if it was the fight with my dad or the argument with Kaoru or the fact that Takeda and I were hardly talking but I found myself furious with his usual level of harassment.

"You know what? No!" I cross my arms "I am not signing anything, I am not agreeing to anything and I am not talking with you right now. This," I make a circular gesture around the school "is my school. This is my place of learning and peace. This is my sanctuary and I have had just about enough of your harassment detective." My words were harsh and dripping with attitude

"Is there a problem here?"

I can't help the smile as a comforting deep voice speaks behind me. I hear Kaoru's heavy footsteps and his hand on my shoulder. It slides down to my waist and I knew he was angry.

"Yeah detective, this is a school and you are being extremely insensitive to the other students." Kozue and I glance to the left and see Baki now standing beside Kozue,

"I'm here on official business delinquents, now would you kindly leave?"

"I think we'll stay." Baki counters, his eyes were slowly narrowing.

"Yanase, if you would like my permission for something then you may approach me at home." When his face shifts the slightest I smile "What's wrong Yanase, you seem worried? –What, did you happen to run into Takeda?" when his hand tightens I smirk "yeah I bet you did, didn't you? Well, I'm sure you already figured it out but Takeda isn't as forgiving as the rest of us and he won't put up with your weekly dose of bullshit. So if you would like to come over tonight I will be home- but for now, get the fuck out of my school."

My voice was low and dangerous, almost as dangerous as the two males standing beside us and Yanase relents. Sending me a glare before he stuffs the papers into his jacket "I'll be there by seven."

When he leaves Baki speaks "Are you two alright?"

"We're fine. Sophia's just more pissed than usual." Kozue giggles and I roll my eyes

"I take my eyes off you for one second and someone's harassing you."

This time I smile and shrug "Well, I never said dating me would be easy."

I stood before the mirror, turning to the left and right to take in my reflection. My eyes take in the black lace cocktail dress. It was sleeveless and stopped just under my collarbones; the black lace covered the whole dress and stood out nicely against my flesh. To preserve some modesty the outfit had a silky black underdress with a sweetheart neckline and an open back, the skirt rests against my mid-thigh. The lace-covered my back and went a centimeter below the underdress and I couldn't ignore the way it hugs my natural curves. Even a blind man could see the large smile on Kozue's lips.

"Oh my god!" she claps her hands in front of her "That's the dress. That is SO the dress!"

I turn again "Are you sure it's not too sexy? I mean this is our first date."

"That's why it should be sexy!" Kozue sighs like she's a sudden expert on men "You're supposed to reel in his attention!"

"It's just dinner!"

"Oh! That looks stunning on you!"

We both turn to see the store clerk, her comment had Kozue's smile growing and I look away from her "She thinks it's too sexy for dinner."

"Where are you going for dinner?"

"Um, I've never been there but Kaoru picked this place downtown, Ise Sueyoshi or something like that..." When I turn again I can't miss the shocked looks on their faces "What?"

"Sophia, Ise Sueyoshi is a five-star restaurant. Reservation only..." Kozue whispers

"Yeah, my friend tried to get in there once, it's like a two-month wait-list..." the store clerk adds and I feel my stomach drop slightly

"Oh my god, I told him to keep it simple!" My hand slaps my forehead and Kozue laughs

"When has Kaoru ever done anything simple? I mean look at his appearance."

I smile and look back at the mirror, my hands running down the lace once more "You really should get the dress, it looks stunning on you."

"Their right, it's stunning." We all turn to see a familiar face, well familiar to me.

I glance at the man before us; his long blonde hair was piled up on the top of his head, his slim face and large bone structure made him seem very angry. I was happy that he had switched from his usual flashy red coat and leopard print shirt to a casual purple button-down and long black jeans. The sleeves were rolled up around his elbows and his hands were in his pockets.

"Chiharu." I smile

Chiharu Shiba had fought in the maximum tournament and passed on sheer will power. He idolizes Kaoru and often shows his support around the city. Chiharu is the leader of Tokkouta, a racing gang. He is one of the men Kaoru asked to watch me.

He was leaning on the wall casually "Hey Cutie," he walks up, taking my hand in his. I feel a small card placed in my hand "Kaoru wanted me to give you this."

What the hell did Kaoru think this was? The bachelor?! Beverly Hills housewives?!

I look down at the gold credit card again and snap a stare to Kozue "I'm going to kill him. I'm going to kill him and resurrect him and kill him again." I mean seriously! Lined escorts, five-star restaurants, a private car for my use and now a credit card?! I turn, giving Chiharu the card back "Thank you but you can give Kaoru his card back, I don't need it."

"It's not his, it's yours. He's just paying for it."

"I already have a card."

"You mean you did," he smiles with a shrug and hands it back to me "Kaoru cancelled your card and he paid off your current balance."

I glance at Kozue, fighting the massive urge to scream and watch her awkwardly glance between Chiharu and me. In a painful attempt to not shoot the messenger I turn, smiling painfully as I take the card from his hand and turn my gaze to the store clerk "I will get this one."

The woman looks at the three of us and slowly clasps her hands together "Of course... is there anything else I can get you?"

"Shoes?" Kozue hesitantly asks

Despite my anger, I can't help but smile "You know what? Shoes sound lovely."

..

..

The car ride to the restaurant was quiet; the dress was dropped off at the dry cleaners and picked up an hour later. I got a coffee with Kozue and we had a fun time wandering around the mall. Chiharu was walking behind us, holding all the shopping bags. His mouth was set in a firm line but he had yet to make any complaints. I bought Kozue a few outfits as well and we ended up parting ways when Baki came to pick her up. Chiharu places the bags in the trunk and opens up the car door for me. I slide into the glossy black car and wait for him to drive away. I wave at Kozue and Baki till they are out of view and lean back against the seat.

"What time is dinner?"

"Seven. Kaoru will meet us there."

We went home, dropped off our stuff, checked in with Takeda and after a very loud phone call on Chiharu's side, I quietly got ready for the date. I add a bit of eye liner, brown shadow, mascara and lip gloss as make up wasn't my forte and I was debating on putting my hair when Takeda stops at the door.

"Keep it down."

I look at him softly and smile, grabbing my hair curler. When I was done my hair fell in loose waves around my shoulders and I opened up the dress from the white protective bag. I slip on the dress and shoes and stand in front of the mirror once more. It was times like this that I wished my mother was here, I could ask her questions and voice my worries.

"Wow." I turn to the door to find Takeda once again at my doorway "Just when I thought you couldn't get more beautiful."

I smile "You better watch yourself, I have a very jealous boyfriend."

Despite my humour, the smile doesn't last long.

"You okay?"

Of course, he could see my worries. I sigh, trying not to cry "I just wish my mom was here, I wish I could ask her questions about her first date with dad. Or ask her questions about makeup or anything else I'm worried about."

"I'm sure she is here, our loved ones are always with us Sophia." His hand lifts to me "Come on, it's time to go."

Chiharu's reaction mirrored Takeda's as we walk down the stairs. He lifts the long dress coat off the hook and slides it over my shoulders. I glance out the door and shake my head with a smile. The line-up of men was outside the door again and I don't hide my smile when Takeda opens the door.

"I hope you don't mind." It was Kenichi and his group "We wanted to see you off."

..

..

The scene was a moment out of a movie. I pulled up to the restaurant and a man moves, opening the door for me. I move sliding out of the seat

"Sophia." I pause, turning to glance at Chiharu "Make sure you give him hell kid."

I smirk, nodding once and slide out, looking up at the thin brunette before me. Or maybe I was so used to overly buff men he seemed thin, but I thanked him as he shut the door and move, walking into the restaurant. I met a waitress in a fancy black pencil dress.

"Welcome miss, can I have your name?"

"Sophia Jones, I'm here with Kaoru Hanayama."

At the mention of Kaoru's name her hands stop, her eyes snapping up to me clearing her throat "Of course, please come with me." She stops to the left and I remove my coat, feeling the flush of colder air around me and pick up my clutch. After the man took my coat and gave me a numbered card we turn, walking through the large restaurant. It took us over a minute to make our way through the two area's and I slide my hand along the rail at the thin ramp leading to the back of the restaurant. I glance at a few faces and stop when my eyes catch his. Kaoru was sitting at the table, a glass of whiskey untouched before him, or maybe this was his second one but I was surprised it didn't tip over when he stands suddenly.

A few people glance at the sudden movement but in seconds there are back to their conversations and I follow the woman. She sets the menu on the table, turning to me and bows once. As she leaves I step to the left, moving around her and stop. Kaoru looked stunning. I had seen him outside a few times, his white suit was quite dazzling but this time it was black, sleek, more form-fitting with a red undershirt. I felt my heart beat faster as he freezes, simply staring at me in shock.

I smile softly "You want some more?"

At my words his shock breaks and he smirks, clearing his throat "You look beautiful."

"Thank you," He pulls out the chair and I sit, moving in closer to the table "You look very handsome."

..

..

"You can't keep doing this."

"Well, you didn't seem to have a problem with it. I mean you did buy five pairs of shoes."

I blush, "that was Kozue's idea and I was angry at you so yes, I bought five pairs of shoes and four dresses. I also bought Kozue some stuff."

I was hoping for some sort of reaction but he just picks up his cup to take a drink "I'll pay for it."

"What if I want to do more shopping?"

"Okay, you can go tomorrow."

I stop, looking at him gently, my voice soft and unsure "Kaoru, I spent over two thousand dollars today. How are you not angry?"

"Sophia I make that kind of money in two hours. Plus I don't spend money on anything but suits and whiskey anyway."

I place my hands over my face and sigh "I wasn't angry that you got me a credit card, I was angry because you got me one without asking me and you cancelled my old one. Kaoru I am your girlfriend, not a pet. I have the right to know about these things before you do them."

"I live a different lifestyle then you; it's not fair to dump that on you."

"Kaoru we're in high school, this isn't an episode of the bachelor." At his confusion, I continue "I am not a high fashion sort of girl, I am jean shorts and tank tops, having two pairs of shoes for three years. I'm cut my own hair when I want too and not wearing any makeup. I grew up with little money to spend and I'm comfortable like that. This," I motion to the restaurant, then myself "This is too much. It's too much too fast."

He sighs "I suppose your right. I should have asked you about the card first."

I reach across the table, placing a hand on his "I care about you Kaoru, not your money or fancy lifestyle. You. -That's all I need to be happy." When he smiles softly I sigh "And I guess if you want to do fancier things we can but you have to let me adjust, honestly I would have been happy with dinner in your room and a movie."

I pull back when the waiter comes to the table, setting another basket of bread "have you two decided what you'd like to eat?"

"Can I have the wild shrimp and chicken pilaf with a side of green beans?"

He nods, asking Kaoru the same thing and soon enough we were alone again. I take a sip of my water and glance around the room. The restaurant had a private booth off to the side of the room. Well, the room was a private area, roped off for other people and we were in the private part of the private room. It was almost laughable how many steps the waiter had to take just to reach us. The nine tables were spread out around the room giving each one as much privacy as they could but my eyes fell on a few famous faces, actors, politicians, other mafia men and I find my eyes eyeing the two bodyguards posted at the door. I knew Kaoru's men were sitting in the restaurant as well, eyeing the door and everyone that came in.

Despite our earlier conversation dinner went quite well. The food was exquisite, everything was beautiful and we were finishing up dessert when Kaoru sets down his fork. He wipes his mouth and looks at me, I take in the serious moment and set down my fork

"What?"

"I know you said this was too much, but I have a gift I'd like to give you."

"You don't have too..."

"I want too."

He reaches into his coat and pulls out a small rectangular box. He sets the box before me and I stop, wiping off my hands. My hands take the red ribbon and slowly untie the red bow. The ribbon was tied in a cross over the box and I lay both on the table, mindful of the plates. I lift off the lid and almost drop it.

I hear myself gasp, a shuttered painful gasp and the burn of tears rim my eyes "Oh my god. This is-"

I place a hand over my lips and Kaoru sends me a sad smile "I know it will never replace the one you lost but I figured it's a start." I carefully lift the charm bracelet out of the box "I got most of the ones you told me about."

Before she died my mother and I got expensive charm bracelets from Paris and every year or special life event we would add charms. My mother gave her charm bracelet to my brother before his trip and I gave her mine with the promise to return it when she got back. My mother never came back and when she did the charm bracelet was missing. When they found my brother it was the same thing. They managed to find one charm clutched in her palm.

"I figured your charm needed a proper bracelet."

I set down the bracelet and reach behind my head and unclip the clasp. I slowly lift both sides of the necklace from my neck. The small charm was hanging from a gold chain, the last memento from my mother. A flat rose gold heart with a tree in the center. The branches reached out to each side with little hearts instead of leaves and two small heart-shaped gems sat on the left side, red and white for mother and daughter. The large glittery ring it was attached too was gone, broken off but I'd gotten it fixed as a birthday present.

I slide the charm off the necklace and carefully open the bracelet, sliding the charm into place. I slide it around my wrist and clip the ends together. My hand slides over the charms, the books, the shoe, the Mini mouse charm, the blue crescent moon and send him a teary smile.

"Thank you. Oh my gosh, thank you."

"You like it?"

"I love it!" I chuckle quietly "Where did you get this? Most of these charms aren't made anymore."

This time he smiles "I have some friends in the business, they owed me a favour."

"Can we get out of here?"

"Why?"

"Because I'd like to kiss you and I don't think that's appropriate here, well, at least the way I want to do it."

He lifts his hand, signaling the waiter "Check please."