Chapter Eighteen
Getting Closer
Mitsuru noted a different vibe when his children were seated next to him. He felt there was a relaxed aura in the room rather than usual tensed feel when both Keigo and Fay were there. He felt that there was an understanding between them. "How have our guests been?" Mitsuru asked.
Both Atobe and Fay exchanged a silent look. "They're gone," Atobe answered. I can't believe what happened last night. I don't know what was worse, the fact that she almost got raped, or that I was nice to her all night\?
Mitsuru seemed a bit staggered at his son's answer. "Gone?" he asked, looking at Fay to reconfirm who nodded. Mitsuru also noticed that his daughter looked rather tired and pale. She seems to be wearing more makeup than necessary, and why is her face so puffed up? "Tarou didn't tell me he was leaving."
Atobe hesitated, but chose his words carefully. I need to be very careful what I say. He doesn't need to get upset over this at this stage. He is still recouping. "I asked them to."
"You did what?!" Mitsuru demanded, then stiffened and held his chest slightly.
"Father…" Fay said, holding his upper arm. "Keigo's just joking. They left because they had urgent business, please don't fret and just relax." He mustn't know. Father will kill Kentarou if he found out.
Mitsuru didn't believe her. He felt that something was up, and they were both covering it. He was going to push it, but then decided not to. "You know, I think I'll trust whatever was done for now. I believe you're eighteen now, Keigo. Happy Birthday."
Atobe breathed out in relief, and looked at Fay. I really thought he was going to push this further, but… I think we're good for now.
"Shall we throw you a grand birthday party next week?" Mitsuru asked, knowing he will be out by then.
"No," Atobe answered. "I just want you to get out of the hospital for now." He glanced at his sister, and felt something move in his heart. Did last night's incident affect me? Do I actually see her as a sister? Hmm… I don't think I'd ever seen that side of her before, he thought. He had never seen her so broken, and he was glad that he reached just in time or who knows what might've happened. He had spent the whole evening cleaning her bruises. They both promised to keep the situation between them, not even the help knew what had happened.
Mitsuru was indeed surprised at Keigo's answer. He's normally more self centered than that.
"However, there's that new Ferrari I want once I get my license. I'll be going to driving school soon." Atobe grinned.
Now that's my son, Mitsuru thought wryly.