First of all, very sorry for taking so long. I had a lot of problems in my life and that made this fic so hard to continue. Combine that with a writer's block and you have a promise of 3 weeks update turning into almost 3 months. Again, so sorry. But please enjoy this lengthy chapter!
taichis-girl208Yay, I have to tell you one thing: You're one of the main reasons I'm continuing this fic. You're always the first to review and I really like your long reviews! It gives me a lot more feedback than "Please update soon". Yeah, I'll focus some more on Taichi next… But first this mess has to be cleaned up. And after that…. -Evil smirk which I can always use and never get tired of- Also, in your review you mentioned something that will only be revealed in the next chapter or so….and thanks for the plushie!! Also, Mr. Ishida doesn't know anything of Yama's love life… But he soon will……… Anyway, let's get on with the story, shall we?
Sovereign of Silence3Woohoo, hold your horses on FORMER Mrs. Ishida. She'll get what she deserves… -Uses the over-used evil smirk that you've all begun to fear… Not…- I'm thinking of giving Koushiro and Mimi a little bigger role in the story, I'll just have to figure out how. Also, let's say I make this chapter a little shorter and next one long? Sounds right? Also, in this chapter I will drop a very subtle hint on what comes next… Though you probably won't find it unless I tell you… -Smirks evilly (again) while underestimating your intelligence.- Also, just like taichis'girl208, you're one of the main reasons I am able to continue this story. I mean, look at me! I'm writing chapter 9!!!!! Thanks!
KoumiLoccnessLol, I always have to laugh when I read your reviews because they're a bit hard to understand. XD… But I guess you liked it? That's good! But umm…. In your review you said: "but with jyoumi and mimiato makes it gay to read"… That's not something you say in a fic like this, right?? Besides, it's not very nice to other people… I feel a little hurt… -Pouts with puppy eyes- Never mind, I'm just glad that I have another faithful reviewer!
Arishi YamadoWell, I'm glad you liked it. I won't be very evil for a little while… My evil energy is running low…. I gotta read some Yamachi/Taito fics to reload.
Reese: Thanks for reviewing. Yes, I know the church part might've been somewhat out of the blue but I felt like putting it there. Often, when people are experiencing a hard time, they turn to God, even when they're not really religious. Anyway, I just felt I had to put it in. Also, what happened to Yamato will be explained in this chapter. I didn't want to get ahead of myself .
xxBoppingAllTheWayxx: Thank you so much for your review. It was just what I needed. I'm really glad you like the story. Please continue reading and reviewing, I'll finish this story for sure! (Also, thanks for replying on my reviews. I don't really consider my work of such good quality. Like this chapter, I feel like it kinda sucks…)
CHIcontrastWell, in the end it took even more than 3 weeks, so very sorry for that! This chapter was really hard to write. Also, I'll develop some more on Taichi in the next chapters. I already have a nice plan….
jake-da-snake-animelover92You'll find out in this chapter why she came back…… Thanks for reviewing!
Also guys, I want to point out that Mr. Ishida doesn't know about Taichi and Yamato being together, yet. Actually, he doesn't even know that his son likes boys
And, I think I'll have to put a language warning here… I don't often write characters that curse but… You'll see.
"..." Talking
'….' Thinking (Yamato)
/….\ Thinking (Taichi)
[… Thinking (Takeru)
Standing up for what you believe is very hard to do. Standing up for what others believe is even harder.
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Chapter 9
Disturbance
"Yeah, hello to you too, Yamato. Oh, hi Takeru, look at how much you've grown… And…Well well, if it isn't my beloved husband." The owner of the voice now had a smirk on her face and it was not one of happiness. The three men turned around, Yamato only capable of turning his face slightly in the direction of the sound, to see the owner of the voice… Two of the three that had turned around and could actually see the person felt as if heaven had just collapsed on their heads. Mr. Ishida let out a low growl as he recognized the woman standing before them because… Takeru let out a small sound that sounded like a squeal while at the same time a gasp for air. Even Yamato, who couldn't even see the person let out a deep growl, his face darkening. Taichi was dumbfounded as he watched the expressions of the Ishida's grow darker with the second. The reason? Because a few steps away stood no other than former Mrs. Ishida.
"Now now, is that how you welcome your mother? Oh dear, please take that look of your face. You'll get wrinkles. And you know how you get when you discover a new one, again." The woman had an almost arrogant smirk on her face, seemingly liking the expressions on the men's faces. She let out a chuckle.
"Now now, Hiroaki, you should really work on your happy face. Shouldn't you be glad that the true love of your life has returned?" The woman tried to sound as sincere as possible, but her face betrayed her as she wore an expression of sarcasm. Mr. Ishida let out a deep breath, as if trying to steady himself.
"True love? My ass. And since when are we back on a first name basis, Nancy?" He spat out the name with disgust. The woman, supposedly named Nancy, feigned hurt at the remark.
"Now now dear, what language. I knew it was better back when the boys lived with me. Look at them, Takeru's practically all bones." She closed in on the said blonde and reached out to touch his face but the blonde took a step back, wildly moving his arms around, trying to keep the woman away. All the while, Taichi's face and mind remained confused.
"Ummm, ma'am? Sorry to ask so abruptly, but who exactly are you?" He already knew the answer to the question but he needed to make sure. The woman seemed surprised, as if she only noticed his presence just then. Regaining her confidence, she bowed dramatically.
"Ah, forgive my rudeness. I am Nancy Takaishi, formerly known as Nancy Ishida. You see…" The woman slowly approached both Takeru and Yamato's bed slowly, lifting her hand to touch Yamato, "… I am the mother of these precious boys here." She said all this with such a proud look on her face, almost as if they were one big, happy family.
"Ah, if that's so…" Taichi slowly made his way towards Yamato's bed, making sure he stood in Mrs. Takaishi's path. He saw her hand approaching Yamato and he quickly reached out and slapped it away with more strength than intended.
"If that's so," Taichi repeated, " Then don't you even fucking think about coming close to Yamato." He ended with a low, deep voice. His facial expression had quickly changed from dumbfounded confusion to dripping anger.
/This is… This is the woman, no… The reason that Yamato is blind. She's the reason that he's having such a hard time. She's…\
Taichi began to shake slightly. But not in fear. No, far from fear. He was shaking while trying to control his anger. He took in a deep breath.
/ I've gotta steady myself… Can't lose control again…\ He then noticed that Mrs. Takaishi had already steadied herself again and was again trying to reach out for Yamato. He let out what seemed like a fierce roar as he grabbed the woman's wrist.
/ Fuck control…\ Then, in a low, deep and very dangerous voice he let out:
"Don't you dare to even fucking think about getting close to Yamato. I won't let you." He increased the grip he had on Mrs. Takaishi's wrist and she was now visibly twitching and struggling in pain, much to Taichi's delight. However, he couldn't continue any longer as an other big, strong hand enclosed around HIS wrist and gently forced him to release his grip. He looked at the owner of the hand and saw it was Mr. Ishida. He spoke in a soft and firm voice.
"Taichi, that's enough. Don't worry. She won't come near him." He then turned his head towards said woman. " I won't let her." The woman softly rubbed her wrist, still a little shocked and pained.
"Now now, who's the boy with the anger issues?" Mrs. Takaishi said in a surprised voice. She certainly hadn't expected someone like this. Mr. Ishida was about to speak but was cut short by Taichi.
"I'm Yamato's friend. And I'll do anything to protect him from… you." Mrs. Takaishi was about to say something but was interrupted. The voice came from someone in the back. It was no other than Yamato himself.
"No, Taichi's more than my friend. He's my best friend. The best I've ever had. And he's even more than that, much more." Yamato took a deep breath.
'This has been coming for some time now. This isn't exactly how I was going to tell it, but what the heck?'
"Taichi is my boyfriend."
There was silence in the room. Everyone was surprised, except Takeru. Even Taichi was surprised at the sudden announcement. Yamato had made him promise that he wouldn't tell Mr. Ishida yet. Takeru could only smile slightly despite the whole situation. Mr. Ishida seemed shocked. This certainly wasn't on his list of suspicions on Yamato's secrets. However, he soon relaxed. He knew Taichi pretty well by now and he was sure that Taichi would take excellent care of his son. However, there was one more person in the room who was shocked.
"What!!?? Hiroaki!! What have you done to our son? You've…You've… Turned him into… You turned our son into a homo??" Mrs. Takaishi screeched. Her face was beat red.
"N-Nancy, calm down. It's ok." He instinctively took a step towards Yamato's bed and raised his hands in a calming motion.
"Hiroaki, you knew of this? And you never told me?!" She threw an accusing glance at him. Mr. Ishida remained calm. This only masked his inner confusion and emotions, but his exterior showed nothing of the sort.
"No Nancy. I did not know. However, what I do know is that Taichi is a great boy. If you get to know him, then you'll see that he's an excellent partner for Yamato." Taichi snorted at Mr. Ishida's statement.
"As if I'd want to get to know her!" Mr. Takaishi didn't notice Taichi's remark. She only sniffed arrogantly.
"Hm, as if a boy with obvious anger issues is an excellent partner. Hiroaki, your judgement of character is as bad as ever."
"I guess you're right. I did pick you as my wife…" Mr. Ishida muttered under his breath.
"What did you just say?" However, Mrs. Takaishi didn't wait for an answer. "Hiroaki, I'm glad I came today. This can't continue any longer. These boys need some obvious re-education. And it can't wait any longer. I'll be taking Takeru with me today and I'll pick up Yamato as soon as he gets released. Don't worry, the whole procedure has already been taken care of." Mrs. Takaishi smirked, satisfied with the shocked expressions of the Ishida's and the anger-issue-boy. The three boys were utterly shocked and couldn't speak a word. Even Yamato wore an expression of mixed fear, shock and slight anger. Mr. Ishida was the first to speak up again.
"N-Nancy! We had this conversation a few years ago! The judge decided that it would be better for the boys to live with me. You know that's what he said. And that decision was final." Mrs. Takaishi could only laugh arrogantly.
"Hiroaki, your memory is failing you, I see. The judge said it'd be better for them to live with you while I was in prison. But now, the situation has changed. I got out and am legally able to ask for custody now."
"And has the very reason you were put in jail slipped your mind?" Mr. Ishida was getting a little angry now, still unwilling to believe that what Mrs. Takaishi was doing was legal.
"Ah, past mistakes. C'mon Hiroaki, you should know all about it. Besides, I guess it helps when your judge happens to be a very good friend." Mrs. Takaishi made sure to emphasize the word 'very'. Taichi jumped up at this.
"Hey, that's not legal! Personal ties to any of the clients is forbidden!" And again, Mrs. Takaishi only chuckled.
"Ah, what do you know about it. Besides, it's nothing…official." Taichi was getting enraged again.
"Well, my dad's a lawyer! He'll put it right!" For some reason, Taichi winced at his own statement.
/If he'll still be willing to help after..\
"Oh, you're on of those kids. As soon as something doesn't go the way you want, as soon as you can't get something, you'll go running to your daddy." Mrs. Takaishi spoke in a mocking tone. Taichi clenched his fists as he roared. He leaped at Mrs. Takaishi.
"Shut up!! You know nothing about it!" His fist was about to connect with Mrs. Takaishi but his body suddenly stopped moving. A strong voice called out his name.
"Taichi! Stop it! Now!" Taichi looked up and saw he was in the grip of Mr. Ishida. Mr. Ishida's voice then softened again.
"Taichi, calm down. I know this is all getting very emotional but hitting her will only help her cause. Please, you must calm down." The grip on Taichi loosened as he felt the brunette relax slightly. "Taichi, can I ask you something? I need you to stay here with Yamato and Takeru while Nancy and I…" Mr. Ishida's voice was suddenly interrupted as the door of the room busted open.
"What's wrong?" In the doorway stood the familiar Mr. Michealson. He looked around bewildered but he only witnessed three boys with grave expressions on their faces, a man with a calm exterior, a woman with an arrogant smirk on her face and a sick woman lying in her bed with the emergency button clenched in her hands. Apparently, the individual woman had pressed the button as the situation with the other visitors had gotten out of hand. Before Mr. Michealson could ask any questions Mr. Ishida took action.
"Ah, I'm so sorry! Our family… And this woman here still have some small problems to work out. I think we got a little too loud and accidentally disturbed this poor woman's much needed rest. You know what, I'll just move our little discussion to the hallway." And with an apologizing smile directed at the sick woman and Mr. Michealson, he grabbed Mrs. Takaishi's wrist and practically dragged her outside.
"Taichi, could you please stay there with Yamato and Takeru?" And with that, he disappeared around the corner, leaving a room full of surprised people. Mr. Mischealson's face was most confused.
"So…… Nothing's wrong here?" They all shook their heads, not saying a single word. "Okay then… I guess I'll be going then, just press the emergency button if you need something urgently. If not, I'm sure there are enough wandering doctors in this hospital that'll be willing to help you. Ummm….. Bye." And with that Mr. Michealson left the room quickly, glad to escape the thick atmosphere from that room. This left the three boys and the poor, sick, old woman who kept throwing accusing looks at them. However, despite everything it remained absolutely silent in the room. Eventually the woman turned in her bed, facing away from the boys. And still, even after a few minutes, no words were spoken. Yamato was lying down again and even though his eyes were closed (as usual) his face was still dark with anger and… What scared Taichi the most was that there was also fear on the blonde's face. Takeru was no different. The youngest blonde had taken a chair and was now leaning his head on his hands, his eyes remaining open. And just like Yamato, Takeru also had mixed anger and fear on his face. The sight of the two blondes like that practically tore Taichi apart. The brunette had also taken a chair, the adrenaline slowly subsiding, leaving his body in a tired and slightly shaking state. He switched his gaze from Yamato to Takeru, and from Takeru towards his own hands. He clenched them into fists, silently scolding himself for losing control like that. He sat like that for a few minutes, until he couldn't take it any more. He raised from his chair and walked towards the door. The others remained still, almost not noticing his leaving. He shook his head and opened the door, sighing as he stepped into the hallway. He headed for the elevator but something in the corner of his caught his attention. He turned around to see Mr. Ishida and Mrs. Takaishi talking. However, something was very off with that picture because Mr. Ishida was currently on his knees and seemed to literally beg Mrs. Takaishi. Taichi slowly moved closer, trying to hear what they were saying. Mr. Ishida's voice was slightly trembling and he sounded as though he was about to cry, something Taichi thought he'd never see.
"Nancy, please. Don't… Don't take them away from me… Please…"
"Oh come on, Hiroaki! Be a man. They were never supposed to live with you anyway. The judge himself decided that it would be best if the boys lived with their mother. Besides, look at them now! Yamato's all beaten up and Takeru's looking as if he's forced to work as a slave or something! Really, Hiroaki, the boys are much better off with me than they'll ever be with you."
"But…But…"
"Besides, it looks like Yamato will have to undergo some slight psychological counselling. I really wonder how you pulled that one off. I come back to see my precious sons and find that one of them has a boyfriend! A boy! Really, Hiroaki, I expected more of you."
"But Taichi is a wonderful boy! Yamato's never been happier since he met him! Even though he'd never say it, I can see that he's doing so much better."
"Hmph, that can't be true." And with that, Mrs. Takaishi turned away from Mr. Ishida. "It seems those thugs will have two jobs this month… A shame, they're pretty expensive." She winced at herself, realizing she had just said that out loud.
"Hmm, what did you just say there, Nancy?" Mr. Ishida thought he'd heard something, but he wasn't really focused so he wasn't sure…
"Oh nothing…" Taichi however had heard every word.
/…She can't mean…Nah, even she wouldn't…\
But everything was happening in a very strange order... Yamato's attack, Mrs. Takaishi's appearance… Where they coincidence? At this thought, Taichi turned around and was about to walk back to Yamato's room but halfway he was met with Takeru.
"Hey, 'Teru. Aren't you with Yamato?" Takeru shook his head, not even noticing Taichi's distress.
"No, he said he wanted to be alone for a while."
"Oh…"
"And I think I'd like that as well. So, excuse me." And without anything else Takeru walked away, heading for an elevator.
/Yamato wants to be alone. Is this the time where he really needs to be alone, or where he actually needs someone beside him? Oh God, I've never been good at these things… I guess I'll just check on him.\
Taichi nodded to himself and returned to Yamato's room. He entered it silently. Yamato was lying on his bed, facing away from the door. Taichi quietly approached the bed, ignoring the disapproving looks the old woman gave him.
"Taichi…" Yamato said, not really showing any emotion in his tone.
/How does he always know it's me?\
"Hey. How are you holding up?" Taichi didn't really know how to start a conversation in a situation like this, so he just said what came to his mind.
"I'm fine." Again, no emotion was detectable in the monotone voice.
"You know, it's okay to admit it. It's understandable if you're not okay."
/It's not every day your abusive mom suddenly comes back in your life and claims custody over you.\
"I said I'm fine." Taichi sighed. He took one of the chairs and dragged it over to Yamato's bed, making sure he could face the blonde.
"Yamato, It's really okay if—"
"I said I'm fine, damnit!" Taichi was a bit taken back by the sudden burst of irritation. "You don't have to baby me, just because you pity me! I'm fine okay? It's just… Just… I can't… Get their voices out of my head." Yamato started crying suddenly, surprising Taichi. However, said brunette didn't waste any time and moved towards the bed, wrapping an arm around Yamato, for as far as that was possible.
"Shhh…. It's okay, Yamato…"
"I keep hearing them… I keep hearing them laugh. They enjoyed it… They—" Yamato was now sobbing heavily, almost unable to talk any more.
"Easy, Yamato. Don't worry. They're not here. I am. I'll protect you. You're safe now. And you'll be fine." Taichi kept whispering comforting words to Yamato. They seemed to calm him down and for a few moments they remained like that, Yamato being comforted by Taichi's arm partially wrapped around him. He then took a deep sigh and looked as if he was ready to continue. However, Taichi interrupted the boy.
"Yamato, you don't have to… If you don't want it."
"I-I need to… I need to tell some. I didn't even talk to the police yet." Taichi was torn. He didn't want to force Yamato in reliving the experience more then he has too. But on the other side, maybe Yamato needed to talk to someone now.
"Alright then, but promise to stop when it gets tough on ya." Yamato nodded.
"I was just walking outside. I still had an hour until you were supposed to come. I wanted to take a walk. But Takeru was watching his favourite show, so I decided to go alone, with the walking stick. But, after a few minutes outside, they… I practically felt them corner me. They kept going on and on about how well they were going to get paid for this and…."
/Hm? Wasn't Mrs. Takaishi talking about expensive…\ Taichi was quickly interrupted by Yamato.
"They kicked me to the ground. …… They smashed my glasses in my eyes. They kept punching and kicking…" Yamato had to swallow back another sob. "And… In between it all, they were… laughing." Yamato said in disbelief. Taichi could only watch as his love practically relived possible one of the worst moments of his life. But, Taichi also knew that this was an important step towards recovery. No matter how harsh of a step it was.
"And then finally, I fell unconscious. But not before the sound of their laughter was ingrained into me. Next thing I remember, I'm lying in a hospital bed. This just… Sucks… I… I was just getting back at my 'normal' life. With you…"
"Yamato…" Tears were burning in Taichi's eyes. Yamato brushed away his own tears wit the back of his hand.
"Taichi…Thanks…But, it might be a bit selfish… But, can I have some time alone. I think I need to have some space to take a breath, for as far as that's possible in this frikkin' prison." Despite his tears, Yamato had the slightest hint of a smile on his face.
"S-Sure." Taichi rubbed in his own eyes, trying to shake of his tears. He straightened himself and then bowed down again to place a gentle kiss on Yamato's lips. Yamato whimpered in the kiss and tried to kiss back, but his body did not allow such movement. Soon enough, much to soon for Yamato's liking, Taichi pulled away and made his way for the door. He again ignored the disrespectful looks the woman gave him as he closed the door behind him. He sighed as he closed it and leaned against the door, closing his eyes.
/Yamato…\
Taichi took in a deep breath, trying to calm his raging mind. It was so awful, all that Yamato has experienced.
/I wish there was some way I could help him. But how?\
Taichi sighed deeply, at a loss for what he should do next. He was tempted to go to the highest floor of the hospital again but he had a feeling that Takeru was already there and he wanted to give the boy some space. So, he opted for mindlessly wandering around the hospital instead. However, he didn't get far because he heard a familiar woman's voice just around the corner. It sounded like the woman was on the phone with someone.
"Name? Ummm… I believe it was Taichi Yagami. 15 years. Basically, it'll be the same kind of thing like Yamato.You'll get paid big time, I promise." Silence… "Oh come on, I'll give you the money for that one next week! I don't have it right now. " Silence again… "Oh come one, do it already!..." And again silence. "Oh, by the way, you did a great job on Yamato. It'll take him a while to recover from that one. Now I've got the custody case in my hands. You really did great…" Taichi's eyes widened as he heard every word, trying to make sense out of them. "Oh, just do it already!!" Silence… "Oh fine! Don't do it!"
This voice, it belongs to Mrs. Takaishi, no doubt about it. Is it… Is it true? Did she… It does make sense… But to think that she would go as far as… I'll beat the crap outta her…… Oh damnit, here I go again. I've got to get out of here.\
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"She did WHAT??" Mr. Ishida yelled aloud. Taichi didn't even wince at the sudden burst. Actually, he'd been expecting it. "The BITCH!! I'll never forgive her." Mr. Ishida aggressively raised his fists, burning with rage.
"Ah, but I'm not 100 sure yet. Though it did sound like it. But we don't have any proof against her. And even if we do beat the crap out of her, and believe me, I wouldn't want anything more, it'll only help her cause if we don't have proof." At this, Mr. Ishida quickly transformed back to his calm, peaceful self.
"You're right. We can't do anything now. First of all, we need to find out if what you just said is true… Let's think about that now." Taichi nodded and was about to walk away, trying to find a place to think. "Oh and Taichi," Taichi turned around as Mr. Ishida spoke, "please don't tell this to Takeru until we know for sure. I don't want his image of his mother to be shattered more than necessary." Taichi nodded. He then turned around and walked away.
/Oh God… How in the world are we going to prove all this? We don't even have evidence. Nothing! If only we could get her to confess… And tape it or something… But how in the world are we going to do something like that? It's impossible…\
Taichi sighed as he found himself in the huge waiting room after wandering through the entire building. He felt his throat was unusually dry and decided to buy something to drink. Buying a little can of juice, he sat down in the ever so uncomfortable chairs and sipped his drink.
/Think, Taichi, think! We have to pull this off somehow!\
Taichi didn't have much time to think as he was soon disturbed in his thoughts by a familiar boy. The fiery red hair was easily recognizable.
"Wow man, you look like shit! Is it going any better with your friend?" The boy, recognized as Koushiro, took a seat next to Taichi. Taichi could only sigh as he tried to form the right words.
"Well, it's going better with him… But everything else has gotten dramatically worse." Koushiro looked sincerely interested.
"Is there something you need of your chest? I'd be happy to help. I do owe you. That time, when you just listened to me, that really helped me. So, tell me." Koushiro had a expression of concern and interest.
"Well, if you really wanna hear the whole thing? I hope you got time, 'cause it's one hell of a story," Taichi sniffed bitterly. However, Koushiro's expression did not change. It was one of compassion and willingness to help.
"Tell me."
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"…Holy crap… You weren't kidding," Koushiro said in awe.
"Well, I did say it's one hell of a story."
"So, if I'm correct… Mrs. Takaishi wants to take custody of your friend and his little brother. But because she didn't have a chance in court, she paid some thugs to beat your friend up, blame it on your friend's father and thus get custody? Oh my God, not even a movie gets that dramatic!"
"Well believe me, for as far as I know, it's all true," Taichi sighed desperately.
"So… You need a way to prove that Mrs. Takaishi paid the thugs to beat up your friend, only to get custody?"
"Well, that's the idea." At this, Koushiro closed his eyes, frowned deeply and bowed his head. Taichi looked at the slightly odd sight.
"Uhm…."
"Shhh!" Silence…… Taichi was about to touch the boy, making sure he was still conscious, but then the boy shot up.
"That's it! It's quite the long shot but it might work!" Taichi was startled by the sudden burst of energy from the redhead. But his surprise quickly changed into curiosity.
"Well, give me one hour. I'll get it all ready and prepare it all. Afterwards, do exactly as I say and that Mrs. Takaishi is back in prison before sunset." And with that, Koushiro sped off, leaving an excited and overly curious brunette.
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2 hours later
It was silent in room #7A28 as everyone tried to comprehend all they'd heard.
"Okay, does everyone know what they're supposed to say?" Koushiro asked.
"Uhmm, I'm not so sure. Will this really put her in prison? She seems to get off the hook way to easily," Mr. Ishida asked, still not quite convinced of the plan's success.
"Trust me, with this, she'll drop the custody case AND will put her in jail again, all before she knows what's going on. Everyone just needs to play along. So, everything clear?" The three Ishida's and Taichi nodded. "Okay, then I'll go to the room next door. Don't worry, if you mess up she'll have nothing to use against you. Okay, Mr. Ishida, please make the call."
"Right…" A little unsure Mr. Ishida took out his cell phone and dialled Mrs. Takaishi number.
………
"Nancy? It's Hiroaki. Could you come to Yamato's room? We want to talk about the custody case."
………
"Don't worry. I've thought of a concession. Please listen to what I've got to say."
………
"Okay." And with that short reply Mr. Ishida switched of his cell.
"Well then, the wait begins…" Koushiro sighed. Taichi smiled slightly at the redhead. The boy was going through so much trouble just to help an almost stranger. The boy was really something special. He walked up to the boy and placed his hand on his shoulder.
"Koushiro, thanks… You have no idea how much this means to all of us." Koushiro smiled at the compliment.
"Don't worry about it. I'm glad to help. Besides, I get to test my skills with this," Koushiro added with a childish smile that made Taichi smirk a little. "Well then, I guess it's time for me to disappear back-stage." And with that the redhead walked out of the room.
Takeru sighed, making a sound for the first time.
"Dad? Will this really work? Will mom really act as Koushiro said? Will this all really work?" Takeru's eyes were a little watery, giving him the look of a cute five year old. Mr. Ishida smiled at his son's pure and innocent expression. He leaned toward the boy's forehead and placed a gentle kiss.
"I don't know, Takeru. But let's hope, okay? And even if this doesn't work, I won't let her take you, okay? Don't worry, this will all work out." Taichi looked at the almost peaceful sight before him, before shifting his gaze towards Yamato. The blonde sat straight up in his bed, a silent and sad expression on his face.
"Yamato…"
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The door to #7A28 was slammed open.
"Okay, Hiroaki. What did you want to talk about. Spill it." Mrs. Takaishi had a distressed look on her face.
"Wow, calm down Nancy. Let's talk about this, shall we? I'm sure we can work this out." Mr. Ishida said calmly, almost manipulative. Mrs. Takaishi had a suspicious look on her face. She carefully took one of the chairs and sat down.
"Well then, Nancy. Let's see. You want to claim custody of the boys, right? But, do you really think—" Mr. Ishida was cut off by a cell phone ringing. It appeared to be Mrs. Takaishi's. She hastily answered the phone.
"Nacy." Was the short answer.
………
"Yes, I am."
………
"What?!" She almost yelled in her phone. However, within mere seconds, her expression went from irritation to one as if she'd just seen a ghost.
"I-I see… 5 pm you say… Y-Yeah, I'll make it…" She then disconnected, gazing at the space in front of her.
Mr. Ishida tried his best to suppress his grin.
"Nancy? Was that by any chance the police?" Mrs. Takaishi's eyes widened at the question. Then she threw an awfully suspicious look towards Mr. Ishida.
"H-How did you know?!"
/Al right! Way to go, Koushiro!\
Mr. Ishida covered up his inevitable smile with a cough.
"Don't worry, Nancy. We got that call about an hour ago. We directed them to you, I hope that's okay." Mrs. Takaishi's face turned even paler. Mr. Ishida continued: " It seems that they caught the people that attacked Yamato. Isn't that great news?"
"Y-Yes…"
"However, it seems that while they were under interrogation, they somehow mentioned your name. How's that possible?" Mr. Ishida did his best to sound as confused as possible.
"I-I… I don't know. They probably heard about me somehow and were amazed at my beauty?" Mrs. Takaishi weak attempt at turning the conversation around failed miserably.
"But, then how is it possible that they seemed to be absolutely convinced of the fact that you owe them money?" Mrs. Takaishi's face grew impossible paler. "Please, Nancy, do explain."
Mrs. Takaishi stuttered as she tried to find the right words.
"I-I… Uhm…. They… I don't… I don't know… They are probably making it all up!" Mrs. Takaishi had a shimmer of hope in her eyes.
"But… Then why were you calling them just this afternoon?"
"W-What? How do you…. That's not possible! You're lying!" Mr. Ishida remained calm and collective.
"Well, for some odd reason, your number was registered in one of the thugs phone. Even more peculiar is that they registered your name as 'Client #015'. How in the world is that possible? Though it would obviously explain the numerous calls you made to them."
"Not possible! I only called them three— W-Wait a sec… I never said I called them…"
"Ah, but didn't you just say so? What was it? Three times?"
"I-I…"
"Also, we overheard your conversation with them. We conveniently taped it. That, combined with the testimony of the thugs, leads to a very odd outcome..."
/Please… Let her take the bait… Please, believe it…\
"… It almost looks like you paid them to beat up Yamato and were planning on doing the same to Taichi! Now, what has become of the world!? That is madness, isn't it?" Mr. Ishida had great difficulty to contain his laughter.
"Y-Yeah… The world's gone crazy. Something crazy like that isn't possible, right?" Mrs. Takaishi laughed nervously.
"No, it probably isn't possible. But… Why don't we let the officials decide that for us, shall we? I'm sure you have nothing to fear."
"N-No… Of course not! Why would I?" Mrs. Takaishi began to nervously shift in her chair.
"No, of course you have nothing to fear… But… Taking all this to the police would be quite the drag, wouldn't it? Especially for the police. I'm sure they can't take any other conclusion besides the one where you paid the thugs. And that would certainly create a very ugly situation. Hmm…. What to do about that?" Silence washed over the room as Mr. Ishida feigned deep thinking.
"Ah, I know! What a brilliant idea!" Mrs. Takaishi seemed surprised by Mr. Ishida's sudden burst of energy.
"W-What are you thinking about?" Mr. Ishida just couldn't help but smirk at this point.
"How about we just skip all this? Let's not take all this to the police. It would only cause them extra work and us a lot of stress. How does that sound?" Mrs. Takaishi's eyes lit up at this.
"What a wonderful idea! We'll just forget all about it! That solves every problem at once!" And with that, she jumped up from her chair and proceeded towards the door. She had already reached the door and was about to open it, but she was interrupted by Mr. Ishida.
"But…… Skipping all this would be awfully favourable for you, wouldn't it? I don't see anything good for us in this whole picture… Hmm… What could we do about that…… Do you have any idea, Nancy?" Mr. Ishida quickly wiped his smirk of his face as Mrs. Takaishi turned around.
"I… don't know." She seemed a bit unsure as she said that.
"Nothing? Hmm… Let's think of something good…… But what would be good enough? It is quite the favour we're doing here… Think, what would be proper in a situation like this?"
Silence… Mrs. Takaishi nervously shifted her weight from one foot to the other. But she was soon startled by another burst of Mr. Ishida.
"Ah, I know! Let's say this: We drop the whole police thing and then you drop the whole custody thing? How does that sound?"
"What a good idea! Well then, if that's all settled… I'll take my leave now." She turned around and was already halfway gone but Mr. Ishida kept his ground.
"Oh please wait!" Mrs. Takaishi winced, obviously hoping that she could just get away with an unofficial promise that she wouldn't keep any way. "To avoid more confusion and complications, how about we make this official? Just a little signature. How about it?" Mr. Ishida did his best to sound as persuasive as possible. Mrs. Takaishi visibly hesitated but then approached Mr. Ishida once again. The males in the room tried their best to hold back their smirks at what came next. Mr. Ishida grabbed his bag and pulled out a few forms.
"Here, let's just sign this?" Mrs. Takaishi looked very confused.
"How… awfully convenient for you to have those forms…"
/Damnit, is she on to us?\
Everyone kept still as Mrs. Takaishi hesitated. The tension was so thick that it was almost impossible to breathe. However, eventually she gave in and signed the forms. A collective sigh of relieve was released as she finished signing. However, Mrs. Takaishi still wasn't fully convinced. To her, this all seemed a bit suspicious.
"So… With all this, you won't bring it to the police, right?" Mr. Ishida smirked as Mrs. Takaishi sought confirmation.
"Well... That shouldn't really concern you, correct? After all, you are not guilty of anything, right?"
"Right… Nothing to fear… Then… Can I leave now? I've got to get somewhere quickly."
"Ah, feel free. With this, we're finally finished. We can put this behind us, and there'll be nothing to worry about."
"Right! Then… I'll come visit Yamato in a few days to see how he's doing! But now I really have to go!"
'Like I want you near me. Not that you'll be able to where you want for the coming few years.'
Mrs. Takaishi quickly got up again and almost sprinted out of the room. It remained very silent in the room. It stayed like that for a while until a silent blonde finally spoke up:
"Is… Is she really gone?" It was Takeru, finally speaking for the first time. However, no reply seemed to be given. That is, until a few seconds later. The silence was quickly smashed to pieces as both Mr. Ishida and Taichi simultaneously jumped up.
"IT WORKED! It really did!" Taichi jumped in the air, overly happy of the succes. Then, he sprinted over to Yamato's bed and wildly hugged the blonde. Yamato seemed hesitant to hug back, but eventually he returned the affection. More then that, he didn't let go for a while. He let out a deep breath while his face was buried in Taichi's shoulder.
"She- She's really gone," Yamato muttered. Taichi closed his eyes. It had been too long since he had felt relief coming from Yamato.
"Yes. She really is." Taichi gripped Yamato tighter, cherishing the warmth and soothing feelings. Shamefully, they were interrupted when a certain redhead stormed into the room.
"WOOHOO!!! I've got it all, people! Everything, it's all on tape! We did it!" Taichi growled as his peaceful moment with Yamato was interrupted, however, he knew they all owed the boy a lot. Thus, he decided to let go of Yamato and properly thank Koushiro. However, surprisingly, another blonde beated him to it. It was Takeru that was now jumping at Koushiro, hugging the boy tightly.
"Thank you. I do not know who you are, but you have no idea what you've done for us. You really… saved us," Takeru said while hugging Koushiro tightly. Slowly, Koushiro's face turned as red as his hair.
"A-Ah, don't worry. I'm really happy I could help." He gently pushed the blonde away. "Besides, I got to test my impersonating skills. She immediately fell for my police call. And she even signed the forms! It took, like, only half an hour to create both from scratch." Koushiro had an hilarious smile on his face as he continued to praise himself.
"Yes… Thank you…" The sudden voice came from the back. Everyone turned around to see Yamato. Even more surprising was the fact that the blonde was crying. Taichi felt the sudden urge to comfort the boy, but he noticed something different. These tears, they were not from pain or fear. These were tears of relief… and even some well-hidden happiness.
"C-Could you please come a bit closer?" Yamato asked hesitantly.
"Sure," Koushiro said as he walked up to Yamato's bed. When he was within Yamato's reach, the blonde sat up straight and reached out. He gently allowed his hands to find Koushiro's face and when he found it he allowed his fingertips to trace along the lines of the boy's face. After a while, he seemed to finish memorizing the boy's face.
"Izumi Koushiro. Thank you," Yamato said softly, allowing the tears to freely flow from eyes. Koushiro scratched the back of his head as he took in all these compliments and thanks.
"Ah, you're really welcome. Really, I'm just glad I could be of any help. Now please, you're all embarrassing me a little. Besides, we're not quite there yet. Now that that woman signed the forms, we still have one important thing to do." The bright and happy atmosphere seemed to die down a little as Koushiro verbalized what everything wanted to forget. Mr. Ishida was now finally the one who spoke up again.
"You're right. We still have on thing to do. And that's to make sure that Nancy Takaishi gets where she belongs, as soon as possible. Prison." Koushiro nodded.
"Yes sir. I have the tape right here. That, combined with the signed forms and the testimony's of you four, will certainly put the woman behind bars for the next few years." Koushiro took a deep sigh as he said that. "Well then, I guess my job's done here. I'm sure my girlfriend's getting a little impatient by now. Guess I'll have to pay her some attention… So… Bye!" And with that, he sprinted out of the room, not giving anyone another chance to thank him again. The three Ishida's left behind, along with Taichi looked at each other, trying to comprehend what had taken place in that small amount of time. It was awfully quiet for a few seconds until they heard a tiny, weak cough coming from the other corner of the room. They all turned around to see the same old, sick, poor woman lying in her bed, throwing them very questionable looks. And… That did it. Mr. Ishida, Takeru and Taichi bursted out into uncontrolled laughter. Even Yamato couldn't contain his smile. And, much to the old woman's frustration, they did not even attempt to stop laughing for another whole hour…
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2 days later
Tuesday. 2 pm. The sun was shining, the birds were happily chirping and a soft breeze gently swayed the leaves from the big tree next to the hospital. People were still walking in and out of the hospital but all them, except for a few wounded ones, had delighted looks on their faces. Even inside the hospital, most of the windows and curtains were opened, allowing the streams of light to fill the halls and lighten up the always dark corridors of the dreaded white building. Yes, this was bound to be a beautiful day. And everyone was going to make the best of it. Also, in one of those halls of the Central Hospital walked a certain brunette. The boy had a big smile on his face as he moved towards the room where his love was patiently waiting for him. Finally turning around the last corner, he approached the door of room #7A28. Gently opening the door, he was delighted to see that in this room also, all windows were open and light filled the otherwise dark and depressing room. He looked around until his gaze fell upon a certain Yamato Ishida and a familiar Mr. Michealson sitting next to him.
"… Well then, please think about. If you have any questions, as I'm sure you have, then please let me know." Mr. Michealson saw a person approaching from the corner of his eyes and turned around.
"Ah! Yamato, it seems you have a guest." At this, Yamato's face lightened up.
"Taichi! You're finally here!" Mr. Michealson was surprised.
"Eh? You knew it was him? Ah well, I guess I'll just leave the two of you alone. Perhaps you can get Taichi to take you out. The weather is exceptionally good for this time of the year. If you want, you can take a wheelchair. Just ask a nurse, she'll help you." Taichi nodded, a smile present on his face.
"Well then, I guess I'll leave now. I hope you boys have fun." And with that he turned around and leaved the room. Taichi heard the door close behind him but he didn't move. He allowed himself to memorize the sight before him. Yamato, sitting straight up in bed, no longer covered in bandages or scratches. Even all the needles and other equipment were gone.
"Taichi…"
"Yes?"
"Get you butt over here so I finally kiss you again." Taichi smirked at the blonde's remark. He closed in on the blonde and finally allowed to let all his spend up frustrations to release. He desperately kissed the blonde as he felt himself relax again. Yamato unexpectedly deepened the kiss as he shyly pressed his tongue against Taichi's lips, seeking entrance. The brunette gladly opened up and did the same as Yamato. Soon enough their make-out session got more inappropriate with the second. Taichi half expected to be interrupted by the stupid, old woman again, but surprisingly they weren't. Yamato seemed to sense Taichi's thoughts as he broke the kiss with great difficulty.
"She… Finally got… Fired…" He panted, a little out of breath from the intense kiss. "So, there's… No one who'll… stop us…" Taichi hesitated as Yamato said that.
/Maybe going any further right now would only end up causing more trouble. Perhaps we should get everything a little bit more stable before we go any further.\
"Maybe… We should wait with all of this." Yamato was a little bit surprised by Taichi's comment.
"You're… probably right."
'Taichi, you have no idea how wonderful a person you are. You don't even take advantage of me.'
Taichi half smiled at Yamato. They both knew what was best for them at the moment. Taichi then reverted back to his usual old self.
"Well then, how about we go outside? It is wonderful outside. Besides, you've got to be sick of continually being in a room like this."
"Taichi, as long as I'm with you, I could even be in Hell for an eternity." Taichi couldn't help but smirk at the blonde's remark. Mostly, because he knew that nothing else was more true.
To be continued
AN/
Well people, that was finally it for this chapter! Once again, I'm so sorry that this took so long to get out. I've had an enormous writer's block. (Now I finally know how it feels. And trust me, it sucks! ) That combined with a lot of personal stress, school and A LOT of emotional problems in my life made this chapter so long to write out. So, sorry everyone!
Anyway, who got my super subtle hint? Evil smirk I wonder who gets it. If you do find it, say it in a review and you can win a plushie of Taichi pushing Yamato in a wheelchair. And trust me, it's kawaaaaaaaaaiiiiiii -Smile-
Again, sorry for making a chapter take 3 months instead of 3 weeks. But don't worry, I'll continue now. Be sure to look forward to at least 2 major plot changes. After that, the conclusion of this story will come inevitably close. But don't worry, if all goes well, I might just have a sneaky side story in mind -Thoughtful smirk.-