OVERSEAS MIRACLES
CHAPTER 16
TOUR RIDE
Kyoko and the Hizuri couple were having a late lunch after the 'punishment' of Kuu Hizuri. It seems that his energy was all drained out from Kyoko's wrath. No wonder his wife, Julie, requested their cook to prepare a buffet table for him.
"Thank you so much for having me in your lovely home. I never had expected to stay in this very grand mansion of yours. Once again, I would like to express my greatest gratitude for your kindness. I don't know how to thank you more. This is too much for me to deserve." Kyoko bowed at the couple with honor.
"Don't mention it, Kyoko. It's a pleasure to have you here with us. Actually, me and Kuu here had planned to tour you around right after lunch time but unfortunately, things had not went as planned." She begrudgingly glanced at her husband, throwing a menacing glare at him.
"Don't hate me, Julie! I can make up for the loss!" Kuu pleaded, his mouth is fully stuffed with prawns.
"I'm very sorry, Hizuri-sensei. I should have controlled my temper earlier. I'm really really sorry." She bowed again sincerely.
"You have nothing to apologize, my son. Everything is my fault. I should have thought of a better way. And call me 'otou-san' I love to you calling me your father." He smiled.
The teen raised her head; relief is displayed in her eyes. "Really? Well, I must say that you're the greatest actor, Otou-san. You really did make me think that Mr. Duck was a psychopathic farmer." She said wryly.
Kuu almost puke his stomach at the description of her 'Mr. Duck.'
"We just want to surprise you, sweetie. It's just Kuu is not very good in that category." Julie added nevertheless.
"Owww..., Julie. I'm not that bad as you make it sound like. Anyway, everything cannot be undone. Let's make the most of the afternoon. It's already pass 3:00. I'll be the driver and Julie will be your tour guide!" Kuu said animatedly.
"Go change into something comfortable, Kyoko. We're leaving right after you're done." The woman convinced.
"Okay, I'll be quick." Kyoko excitingly ran to her room hurriedly.
The trio spent the rest of the afternoon touring around the district. This time, they are using a Ford C-MAX Compact Family vehicle. (Forget about the dull yellow Volkswagen). Since they only have a limited time left, the couple passed by important landmarks and places that Kyoko should be familiar with. They even taught her where to find some public utilitly buses just in case some complicated situations may occur.
The trip was so full of life. As for Kyoko, she was too amazed on observing Julie. The way she soothingly speaks, her flawless moves, the way how her curly blond hair sway gracefully with her movement, her gorgeous eyes shimmers like the stars; everything about her screams natural beauty. Make-up plays a very diminutive role in her splendor. The teen even made a title for the woman. A 'fairy queen' is what best describes for Julie Hizuri. Her 'father' is the luckiest man in the world. Now, it's already 6:00pm.
The teen's eyes widened in astonishment; the sight is just exactly as the same as of what is pasted on her handbook. But seeing the actual thing is different from just only the picture. Just staring at the golden heavy gates of the academy gave her a message in a sense like; survival of the fittest. Looking through the gate of the academy, she could feel the air of high competence and influential pressure if ever she walks through it. It's very overwhelming then she felt low for a sudden.
"Okay, this is our last stop: Golden Gates Academy. I guess you know the details of your future school, right? Julie inquired with a wink. Kyoko's thoughts were instantly disturbed by the woman's voice.
"Ah, yes. That's true." The teen stuttered at her answer, not making a good development to regain her composure.
"I know how you feel, sweetie. This school produces a lot of highly talented and excellent competitive artists, actors/actresses, athletes and musicians. But don't worry; I believe all of these people had endured all the hardships and obstacles in this academy. Kyoko, I know you can do it with your strong will. You have our support and also from your closest friends in Japan as well." The woman touched the teen's shoulder, giving her a heartening beam.
"This school will help you conquer your weaknesses and broaden your horizons. Additionally, this institution will develop your personal image to become a model to the people around you. That way, you will grow into a better actress that you wish to be." Kuu added as he turned his back to the duo at the backseat.
"Thank you so much for all your encouragement. I don't know what to do if you weren't here with me. In two days, I have an appointment with the school head. I'm kind of nervous actually." She said timidly.
"You'll overcome with that. And oh, would you like me to accompany you here?"Kuu asked excitingly.
"I'm sorry but I think I'll have to go on my own. You have work to face, Otou-san and I don't want to be a burden. I can take the bus."
Kuu frowned at his 'son's' insistence.
"That day later, I will be having a test of my courage to determine of how far I can stand on my own inside this academy. I need to feel the atmosphere of this school even though classes haven't started yet. This may help me adjust to my new environment as Japan's exchange student" The teen explained with pure willpower.
The couple was able to get the gist of the girl's intention. They never had met a young lady in her age with that kind of perception. She finds better ways to deal and solve her own matters. Kuu is so proud of her independence. At this instant, he has something to share dotingly to his co-workers when he gets to work. As for Julie, she can't stop smiling at the girl's words. It reminded her of a side of hers during her teenage years.
"Okay, if that's what you wish then, at least, I will have Mr. Wilson drive you here on Monday. Actually, today is his day off so you will be meeting him tomorrow."Julie explained.
"But… I can take the bus." Kyoko said innocently.
"For a young lady like you, it's a No." Kuu answered firmly.
"I don't want to impose-"
"Mr. Wilson will take you here on Monday and that's final." Kuu inserted and instructed strictly.
"But-" she attempted to speak more but seeing Kuu's stern face, she closed her mouth and sighed mentally.
"Okay, thank you." The teen replied dejectedly.
Julie giggled inwardly at the short scene in front of her. 'Kuu is so overprotective' she screamed giddily in her mind; A father and daughter confrontation? Now, Julie Hizuri is yearning to have a daughter of her own!
"Okay, now that everything is settled, it's already dark. Kuu, let's go back to Hollywood Hills!" Julie broke the silent atmosphere between the 'father and daughter'.
JAPAN; 8:30am
"President, Tsuruga-san is here to see you." The all-in-white Sebastian informed.
"Oh, let him in." he ordered, hiding his excited expression to see Ren's face.
As the door opened, Tsuruga Ren immediately strode his way inside the president's office, not bothering himself that his employer is in physician's attire. Judging at Ren's appearance, any person can say that he's totally fine but the president can detect minimal flaws from people.
"Good morning, President." The tall actor greeted with a bow.
"Ren, what brings you here today? Have a seat. So, have you heard of Mogami-kun's arrival this morning? Or are you here for a health consultation? You looked like a mess. I suggest I have to prescribe some medications" the president grinned with a knowingly while fixing his lab gown. His question made Ren stiffen on his place. The president hit the mark!
"This is why I came here to ask you if she had confirmed her arrival in L.A." Ren replied with his gentlemanly smile.
"Eh? I thought you came here to tell me about that." The president 'guessed'. 'Maybe, I'll beat around the bush for a while.' "Is this the reason why you looked really stressed? If I take a closer look, you have discreet dark spots around your eyes. You need more vitamins, Ren. And since your girlfriend is not here for a year to remind you of your meals, you should be more responsible of your own health." He told his 'patient' while scribbling his prescription on a piece of paper.
"I'm really serious, president." Ren uttered straightforwardly.
"Don't address me as your president. I'm your doctor as of today." He retorted. Scrutinizing his patient's face, the sudden change of expression had Doctor Takarada jerked in alert on his seat.
"Ren! You're in delicate state!" The president exclaimed, rising from his seat.
"Eh? I don't get it, President." He replied weakly.
"Stupid. Your face! Nurse Sebastian, hand me the mirror, please. Our patient is in critical condition!" The president ordered hysterically. Automatically, he shoved the mirror in front of the actor which is a wonder where in the world did he get it. This face of Ren should not be carelessly seen publicly. The president is having an inner debate of which emotion he should express first. If he have to combine the feeling of giddiness, shock, gleefulness, mischief; what would his face likely to appear? Ren had just displayed a rare face of deep despair, hopelessness, pity, sorrow and with the addition of his slightly swollen eyes. Japanese female, young or old will go crazy over him. 'Since Mogami-kun came into your life, you have completely turned into a masochist. Well, not really. I'm glad that that girl changed you for the better'
"Oh, I see." Ren muttered in front of the mirror.
"Geez, Ren. You spoiled my fun. Anyway, Mogami-kun's host parent called that she had reached their residence. Nothing went wrong and you can fully trust them. Although, Mogami-kun fell asleep once she stepped inside of their home. It's just jet lag." The 'doctor' explained briefly, holding himself of revealing the true identities of her host parents and especially of what Kuu did to her.
"Is that so? As long as she's fine, I'm really glad. Thanks for the confirmation, President. I have to take my leave. Yashiro-san is waiting for me at Fuji Studio." Ren smiled and bowed at the president. He turned his back to take his leave.
"It's kind of sad that you didn't have a video call earlier." The president added before he open the door.
"President… how… did you…" Ren looked dumbly at the president, making him smirk in return.
"Now run along, kiddo. I have business with Sawara-kun any second now."
Sebastian opened the door widely, signaling Ren to move out. 'He must be eavesdropping somewhere yesterday!'
"Tsuruga-san. You forgot something." Someone called from behind. It's 'nurse' Sebastian of course, in male's nurse uniform.
'What? I didn't bring anything in his office, did I?' he thought confusingly.
"It's Doctor Takarada's prescription" the 'nurse' handed him a paper. Then he took his leave.
"Oh." The actor uttered, and read what is written on the 'prescription'
[You're hopeless, Ren. Your medicine is to go back to your homeland! Idiot. You lovesick fool!]
Ren sighed at his 'doctor's' recommendation.
Hollywood, Los Angeles: Hizuri Residence
As they entered the mansion, Kyoko was in pure awe. She hadn't had the opportunity to look around the interior of the mansion. This time, she took her time gazing around. She felt like she's in a castle.
'Wow, I didn't know that Otou-san's home will be this huge and beautiful.' Once they entered, the kitchen, it astonished her more! It's like a five star restaurant's setting.
"Okay, I will prepare dinner now. I'm already starving to death. Kuu complained as he wore his apron. "You ladies rest for a while." He added.
"Uhm, I want to help, Otou-san!" Kyoko intervened.
"Oooh, I want to see you cook, Kyoko!" Julie squealed in excitement. "Kuu told me that you are very skilled in the kitchen." She generously added,
"Sure, that's a great idea. Son! I already miss cooking with you! But are you not tired?" said the gleeful actor.
"No, otou-san. I had recovered my strength. Let's start!" she answered joyfully.
Then the dinner preparation begins! As for tonight, they once again preparing Kyoto-style food – one of Julie's favorite. One of the dishes that they are cooking is Kyoto-style Saikyo O-zoni White Miso Soup"So, how's Japan after I left?" the actor asked while slicing the nezumi daikon (a short, rat-looking radish)
"The issue about your real name was talked about a month." The girl answered while dicing the tofu. She's making Obanzai as one of the dishes.
"That's good. And I heard that Dark Moon drama was a big success! Your acting is so realistic! You were the most beautiful lady during your interview!" Julie complimented in delight.
"You really think so? Thank you!" Kyoko's eyes shone brightly at the woman's words.
"Yup! Oh, and I believe that Tsuruga-Ren had surpassed Kuu's Katsuki. He's such a wonderful man. I'm a very big fan of his. I want to see him in person so badly!" Julie never stopped squealing like a teenage girl.
"…" the girl suddenly went silent she stopped on her work which was immediately noticed by the couple.
"Son, what happened? Did you cut your finger?" Kuu asked and took a peek at her chopping board and her hands. 'I don't see any open wound. Probably her most respected senpai was mentioned that made her react this way.'
"I…. am so… busted!" the girl screamed in horror.
"What do you mean, Kyoko?" Julie asked, puzzled at the young lady's behavior.
"!" she said speedily, eyes widened at her late realizations.
"I didn't catch that, Kyoko. Can you speak slowly?" Kuu asked.
"I forgot to have a video call with Ren. I made a promise that I should do it once I reach here" The girl repeated with a little calmness in her voice.
'Ren? They're in first name basis already? I'm so proud of you, Kuo- ah no, Ren!" Kuu thought; slightly dejected.
"Oh, I see. Then why don't you do it now?" Julie suggested warmly, keeping her enthusiasm of the chance of meeting her most precious son.
"But I can't leave my work here. Also, maybe he's working. So probably his tab is off as well." The girl muttered softly.
"Well, I heard he's a very busy man but maybe you can contact him through his phone. You might be lucky that he's free. After all, it's an early lunch time today in Japan. You can use the telephone to reach him." Kuu recommended, pointing the phone right beside the huge institutional refrigerator.
"Oh! You can use my mobile phone. Here!" Julie handed her phone to Kyoko.
"But making abroad calls will cost much!" the girl exclaimed.
"Nonsense. It's not a problem at all! You know his phone number, right? Now make a call." She grabbed the teen's hand and placed her phone on Kyoko's hand.
"But…" she stared at the phone on her hands.
"Go on…" Kuu encouraged, placing his hand on her right shoulder. Put it in loud speaker mode.
"Okay, I'll do it. Thank you so much for lending me your phone, Julie-san." she bowed in gratefulness then the woman nodded welcomingly with a bright smile. Kyoko dialed Ren's number carefully and waited for a ring. A few seconds later, the line reached its destination and rang in a prolong manner.
JAPAN; 11:30am
*Vvvvvrrrrrrrr*
"Eh? Ren's phone is vibrating. Wait, I need my gloves!" The bespectacled manager hurriedly rummaged in his bag to get his latex gloves. Once it is already worn in his right hand, he grabbed the shaking cellular phone in his pocket. 'An unknown number? Maybe it's a call from abroad!' Yashiro was surprised at his discovery. 'Well, he told me to keep on eye of his call and Ren said that it's okay for me to answer it while he's in the middle of the shoot. Now this is weird. To have me answer his calls is very rare.' The manager pressed the green button.
"Moshi moshi. May I know who is this calling?"
"Yashiro-san!" the manager yanked at the recognizable high-pitched voice.
"Kyoko-chan? Is this you? Thank goodness you're fine! You don't know how worried Ren was." He explained frantically.
"I'm sorry, Yashiro-san. It's a very long story." The girl answered.
"Ren is still on shoot. I think he'll be done in twenty-"the manager's words were unfinished when someone from behind unpompously snatched the phone in his gloved hand.
"Please turn on your tab after I end this line." A slightly grumpy voice suddenly inserted and cut the line right after speaking.
"Rren, that was your girlfriend!" Yashiro whispered fervently, avoiding some ears to catch the scoop.
"I know. That's why we will continue to communicate through our tablets." The tall actor answered coldly while he opened the zipper of his bag to put out his own tab. Yashiro is gaping like a goldfish. After for a moment, he shook his head after processing his thoughts. 'I'm sorry, Kyoko-chan. I can't do anything to help.'
KYOKO MOGAMI
She stared shockingly at the phone on her hands. Ren's voice just now… 'He's angry at me!'
"Kyoko, was that Tsuruga Ren who ended the call?" the blonde woman asked.
"I…I…I have to go upstairs and check on my tablet!" the teen ran in light speed, leaving the confused couple in the kitchen.
"Strange girl." Kuu comented.
"Yeah. Just right now, was that Kuon?" Julie asked doubtfully.
"Yes, Julie. It was him for sure. And I think that he has a lot of scolding to the girl. After all, Tsuruga Ren is her most respected senior. She even considered him as her mentor. Hmm, I wonder how far they have gotten in their senpai-kohai relationship." Kuu added questioningly and sighed at his son's chicken side.
I'm really sorry for the delay, pipz! Summer vacation in the Philippines had ended, which means I have been really busy with some appointments. *sigh* Additionally, Update of this story will take more time than usual. Anyway, our class will start the day after Independence Day here in this country. I still have time to add more chapters as much as possible! HOPEFULLY!
By the way, what do you think about this chapter? Supposedly, I was waiting to reach a hundred reviews but sad to say that it haven't. Never mind.
However, I would like to thank you for spending your time with my story. Your reviews made me happy. I'm really glad that some of you enjoyed the previous chapter.
Guys, I'm just asking just A SINGLE REVIEW from you. Tell me what your thoughts dictate. I don't care if it includes flames and criticism. That will definitely help a lot. What's essential in reviewing is that I can know what you expect from this story and your thoughts. This way, I can adjust and improve the weakness in this story. Fanfiction had helped me improve my writing abilities. And that's because of the reviews that the viewers had given to me. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR REVIEWING!