Chapter Four
"No, no, it's not like this!" In frustration the elderly scolded as he struck his conducting baton against the music stand in front of him. The first few days of practice had not been smooth for Maestro Schinkel and the Yokohama Symphony Orchestra. As a world-class, top-most head conductor in the world, Maestro Schinkel will accept nothing but the best. With such demand and expectation, the members of the orchestra had found it very difficult to cope. To Maestro's slight relief, there was at least one person that understood and presented forward the kind of music he was looking for.
"Len," Turning his eyes to the young violinist that sat in the front seat of the first violinists, Maestro instructed. "Demonstrate how it was supposed to be done."
Standing up from his seat, calmly placing the violin on his shoulder, Tsukimori did as he was told and to everyone's astonishment, the impossible demands of Maestro Schinkel were less than a chore for Tsukimori. From such magical performance, the members that had prior prejudice toward Tsukimori for taking over the first seater's position had all vanished.
Nodding in consent, Maestro Schinkel turned to everyone else. "Listen carefully, here starting from bar 542, like how Len is performing now, it should be like this…"
Among the astonished members was Hino Kahoko. Although she already knew the amazing talents Tsukimori inherited, yet, from the way Tsukimori performed, regrettably, Kahoko was forced to see that Tsukimori had done the right thing by leaving her to study abroad. Yet for her, not only her love life, her music career had also not progressed.
"Very well done," After Tsukimori's demonstration, Maestro Schinkel turned to Kahoko. "Miss Hino, can you also demonstrate together with Len representing second violinists. Try to capture the feeling he is trying to express."
With her name called, Kahoko quickly stood up from her seat as a reflex. However it was not until she stood up did Kahoko realise the situation she was in. In front of everyone's eyes, she was asked to perform a duet with Tsukimori!
With the thought, Kahoko felt the emotions within her crushed her like stormy waves. The last time she played a duet together with Tsukimori, the piece was Salut D'amour Op.12, the song Lili had given to both Tsukimori and her as a gift, a blessing to their love…
However unlike her, Tsukimori showed no particular expression as on Maestro's cue, Tsukimori started to perform. Sensing her fingers shaking, Kahoko closed her eyes and followed on. Like a miracle, although Kahoko's mind was in chaos, the moment their music combined, all the dread within Kahoko disappeared and as if her fingers had their own will, her violin harmonised with Tsukimori's as a most stunningly beautiful duet was produced that captivated everyone presented in the room.
Unnoticed, a smile came onto Kahoko's face. This feeling, this sensation, Kahoko remembered every detail of it. Like the first time she played Ave Maria with Tsukimori at Fuyumi's family villa, it was the music that captured both their hearts.
"Wow, they sound amazing together…"
"It's hard to believe this is the first time they played together…"
All the whisperings and praises from the orchestra members entered word by word into Hihara Kazuki's ears. Moving his eyes onto the trumpet in his hands, in frustration Hihara's fingers that were on the trumpet tightened. He hated to admit it, but from deep within, Hihara knew he and Kahoko could never sound the same together.
After the sound of their last note together, Kahoko slowly opened her eyes as she looked up at Tsukimori. It was then she saw, Tsukimori was also looking at her, and although not a word was spoken, Kahoko sensed that Tsukimori felt the same way, the same connection, the same completeness, the same warmth that filled her right now.
"Miss Hino," Maestro Schinkel's voice pulled Kahoko's mind back to reality.
"Yes…yes!"
To Kahoko's surprise, she noticed Maestro Schinkel's eyes fixed on her as he came up. "How long have you been playing the violin?"
Lowering her head, Kahoko replied softly in shame. "Since…since high school." Knowing compared to everyone else, her violin was unskilful, for regrettably she had only come to know music in her second year of senior high.
"Only since high school?" A little amazed with Kahoko's answer, Maestro Schinkel repeated to himself.
"Bravo, beautiful performance indeed." A placid voice appeared as the person clapped in praise. Turning to the sound, Kahoko's eyes widened when she saw the face of an acquaintance she knew should not be here.
Upon her look of astonishment, the person smiled even more and walked up to Maestro Schinkel. "Maestro, hope you don't mind if I come to listen to the practice."
"Of course not, it is part of your job. But I hope our progress does not disappoint you." Unlike Kahoko and the rest, Maestro Schinkel was not the slightest surprised and responded as if the visitor's sudden appearance was the most natural thing on earth. Turning to the rest of the orchestra members, Maestro Schinkel introduced. "Everyone, this is Mr Yunoki Azuma, the producer of this major production. He will be visiting us from time to time, overseeing the progress. "
Kahoko couldn't believe her ears with what Maestro Schinkel said as her eyes stared at Yunoki in disbelief. Unlike how she had known of him, Yunoki was dressed in a charcoal prestige Italian business suit, violet shirt and matching tie, his long hair tied up behind him in a ponytail. Yunoki Azuma was always known to be a charming, beautiful man, and now with such attire, added to his already fatally attractiveness was the aura of a professional, a business executive representing power and wealth, enough to mesmerise everyone including Kahoko.
Noticing Kahoko's fixed focus on him, Yunoki turned around and responded with an even more striking smile. "It was indeed a beautiful performance, Hino-san." Stopping, Yunoki added on purpose. "It had already been a few years since you played duet with Tsukimori, yet the both of you still performed like you have been practicing for many years."
Kahoko's soft face turned white immediately noticing the hidden sarcasm in Yunoki's sentence. Ignoring Kahoko's expressions, Yunoki moved his eyes away said to the rest of the orchestra with a beautiful and professional smile. "Good afternoon, everyone. As Maestro Schinkel already introduced, my name is Yunoki Azuma. Some of you might already be aware; the Yunoki Group isponsors the production of Madama Butterfly. Therefore, I have been assigned as the project manager for this production. I hope we will have a wonderful time working together."
As expected, upon his introduction, the female orchestra members all giggled in joy and pleasure, already fallen for that unstoppable charm belonging only to Yunoki Azuma. Hihara who was depressed a while back felt his heart comforted already. Nothing would be better than having his best friend around. Although Yunoki was no longer allowed to continue his music, still, Hihara was most glad that it was like back in the school days where they all worked together towards a common goal.
However, there was one person that did not share the joy upon Yunoki's sudden appearance. Kaji Aoi knew from deep within that the fact Yunoki became the project manager of this production was not a coincidence. His belief was confirmed when he encountered the sly smile on Yunoki's face when their eyes met. It was the counter attack Yunoki made when Kaji declared he would protect Kahoko from him.
At the end of practice Hihara immediately ran up to his best friend. Taking another look at Yunoki, Hihara let out a sigh. "You really look like a business executive now. It's like we no longer could be friends since you are our 'boss'."
"That's not true, Hihara." Chuckling Yunoki replied. "I am still the same Yunoki you just met last weekend. Just because I am in a suit, doesn't mean I am no longer your friend."
"But honestly, ever since you stopped playing the flute, and moved to study Business Management instead, I never thought we could work together again towards something." In all sincerity Hihara said. "I am truly glad, Yunoki."
"I am glad too, Hihara." Replying with a warm smile Yunoki said. "Not sure how you are coping so I thought I could be your support one way or another. " Turning to Kahoko, Yunoki added. "If I could also help you in any way, please do not hesitate to ask, Hino-san."
Laughing along Kahoko replied. "Thank you Yunoki senpai." Secretly with a sigh, Kahoko knew her orchestra practice times would no longer be the same. First the sudden return of Tsukimori and now, Yunoki…
---
Is Yunoki Azuma a manipulative man? Maybe so, since Yunoki was never a man that acts unless such action benefits him. When he learned from his older brothers that the Yunoki Group had taken over the responsibility of the launch of Madama Butterfly, he immediately convinced his brothers that he would be the perfect person to lead this project.
Were there benefits? Of course.
One, he would be able to prove his ability if the production was a success. Two, since thatKaji Aoi had declared war against him, how could he back down?
At the same time, Yunoki knew this could be rendered an emotional decision too. Ever since his graduation from Seiso Gakuin, music had been taken away from him. Although Yunoki allowed it to happen, there was no denying that his heart envied how everyone was able to continue on their paths in music. He once belonged to a group that like Hihara said, was working towards a common goal. Now, all was left of him was an obligation to a family, a life dedicated solely for the prosperity of an organisation.
"Welcome home, Azuma-sama." Upon his return to the house, the butler greeted.
Nodding in acknowledgement, Yunoki entered the house when to his surprise, on came his younger sister Miyabi, running up to him in haste. "Oni-chan! Something terrible has happened! You must come! Quick!"
From Miyabi's expressions, Yunoki immediately sensed disaster. Following quickly after Miyabi, Yunoki frowned when he noticed smoke coming from the direction of the garden. As he came closer to the source of the smoke, he saw the maids and servants burning some books in the garden. From the pages that have not yet been burnt, Yunoki felt his hands turning colder in despair and hopelessness with the discovery.
"Oni-chan…I am sorry…I couldn't stop them…this was the order that came directly from grandmother…" Noticing for the first time that smile had disappeared from her brother's face, Miyabi explained in fear.
"Yes, it was my direct order." Coming from behind the two siblings was a cold, merciless voice. Knowing whom the voice belonged to, an icy coldness painted Yunoki's face. Deep within him, hatred, anger, rage, abhorrence, and all sort of negative emotions aroused and started to take control of Yunoki.
Not sure if she knew what was going through her grandson's mind, or the old woman simply did not care, unmoved she enquired. "I have heard from your brothers that you have volunteered yourself for the Madama Butterfly Project? Not sure what you had in mind, Azuma-san, but I certainly hope it was not an attempt to be reconnected with music again?"
"Grandmother…" Yunoki replied softly as he finally turned to face the old woman. To the elderly's surprise, she did not see anger or rage on her grandson's face though it was what she had predicted. Rather, it was still the same calm, composed smile that bothered her. For whenever she sees that smile, she knew her grandson had managed to hide his true intention, and no matter what she did, she was unable to break him.
The old woman frowned even more when she saw, with his voice unstirred, and the smile still beautiful, Yunoki replied. "I am terribly sorry if my actions had caused such a misunderstanding. I was only hoping to assist my elder brothers and of course ensure that the Yunoki Group will prosper further." With a soft sigh, Yunoki continued. "If burning all my music books could comfort you, let them burn, for they mean nothing to me."
"Very well then," Nodding in acknowledgement the old woman concluded coldly. "I look forward to the success of the Madama Butterfly Project. I am sure you will not fail the family's expectation." Leaving Yunoki that sentence, the old woman turned and walked off, not looking back again.
"Oni-chan…" Ensuring that no one else was left, Miyabi finally approached Yunoki. When her eyes saw the smile on her brother's face, in sadness she sobbed. "Why? How can you still smile, oni-chan? How can you always be this calm? Why do you let her do this to you?"
"It's okay, Miyabi." In mildness Yunoki replied his little sister. "As a female born into this family, I am sure you would suffer more. So if you ever need support, just come to me."
Miyabi felt her heart ached with her brother's answer, knowing her situation will be nowhere near as horrible as his. Although a son, it was cruel that Yunoki Azuma was only born as the third, his presence was just a shadow. His own accomplishments will never be recognised for it was forbidden for him to perform better than his two elder brothers.
Gently reaching out her hand, Miyabi held Yunoki's hand in her own. "Oni-chan, come with me. I have something to show you." Once again making sure that there was no one else around, Miyabi quickly led Yunoki into her bedroom and locked the door behind her. Seeing how secretive Miyabi was, Yunoki teased. "What's the matter, Miyabi? Do you have a boyfriend hiding in your room?"
Instead of answering Yunoki's question, Miyabi secretly pulled something out from underneath her bed. Yunoki's calmness for the first time was shaken a little when he saw what was in Miyabi's hand.
"Although I was unable to stop them from burning your books, but I managed to protect this for you." Gently placing a small long rectangular box in Yunoki's hand, Miyabi explained. "When I heard that grandmother was going to burn all your music related things, including your flute, I quickly hid it before they could get to it."
Without saying a word, Yunoki quietly opened the box and caressed the shining golden flute inside it. Sitting down next to Yunoki, Miyabi continued. "I know how much this flute means to you, because it contained the memory that you had with…Hino-san."
With that, Yunoki finally moved his eyes away from the flute and looked up at Miyabi. With an understanding smile Miyabi explained. "Of course I know how you feel towards Hino-san. In this entire house, I am the only person that understands you, oni-chan. Although you are always kind and polite to everyone, I know you have never truly liked anyone. Hino-san was the first person that was able to occupy your heart."
"Miyabi…"
With a sad smile Miyabi continued. "Grandmother told me that they have already decided who my future husband will be. But it's okay for me because I have never met a person I truly loved. But you, oni-chan," Stopping, the beautiful girl looked sincerely into the eyes that shared the same colour as her own. "Are you really ready to lose the one person that had touched your heart? The only thing that ever mattered to you?"
---
Waving good-bye to the students in the classroom, Hino Kahoko walked out of the Seiso Gakuin music classroom. With a smile Kahoko took a look around her. Everything in this place still looked the same. It only seemed like yesterday that she was one of the students walking along this corridor.
As requested by Kanazawa sensei, Kahoko would visit Seiso Gakuin from time to time to support the school orchestra practice. With her status as a member of the Yokohama Orchestra and an ex-candidate of the school annual concur; Hino Kahoko's assistance was of great help.
When Kahoko arrived at the staircase, she stopped and lifted her head towards the steps that lead to the rooftop. With a smile, Kahoko turned and walked up the stairs. There were so many memories there at the rooftop, like how the members of the ensemble formed a rock band instead for the school festival. Each one of them picked up an instrument that they were not familiar with, and although it was a big mess in the beginning, here at the rooftop they met week after week and eventually presented forward a stunning performance.
Putting aside the wonderful memories, there were of course unpleasant ones too.
Kahoko remembered walking up these steps when she heard the sound of flute coming from the rooftop. The song was so sad, so bitter, so heavy, that when Kahoko heard it, she felt the sorrow pressed heavily against her chest that she was unable to breath. When she reached the rooftop to find the source of the sound, it was there Yunoki revealed his true personality to her. Underneath that forever friendly, polite smile, Yunoki Azuma was actually a cynical, sceptical bully.
Like déjà vu, as she walked step by step closer to the metal door that opens to the roof, Kahoko heard the same bitter, morose sound of the flute coming from the rooftop. Immediately Kahoko sensed that weight of hopelessness and darkness pressed upon her once again with the melody.
Pushing open the metal door, like a duplicated memory, Kahoko saw the same senior standing there playing the flute, and although he had his back towards her, Kahoko could immediately sense the desolation and agony expressed through such a lonely yet beautiful tune.
"Yunoki senpai!" Feeling her own heart weeping with the sound, Kahoko called out in concern.
Upon her call, the sound of flute stopped. Slowly turning around, Kahoko encountered the pair of magically beautiful eyes she recognise yet they looked so sad. Unfortunately that look was only for an instance as the usual smile returned onto Yunoki Azuma's stunningly beautiful face. "Kahoko? Surprise to see you here."
"Yunoki senpai…" Walking up to the man standing before her, Kahoko squeezed out a smile. "I, I haven't heard you play the flute for so long."
"How was it then? Has my skill deteriorated?"
Quickly shaking her head, Kahoko replied. "No, it is still beautiful, it's just…"
"It's just?"
"I don't know how to describe it, but," Lifting her head, Kahoko looked up at Yunoki in concern. "Did anything happen? Why does it sound so sad?"
Yunoki did not respond immediately as his eyes continued to stare at Kahoko. Finally chuckling, Yunoki mocked. "Don't tell me you also have the 'hearing ability' like Kaji, you interpreted sadness from my music?"
Kahoko blushed when she heard Yunoki's sarcasm. Lowering her head, Kahoko apologised. "I am sorry, I shouldn't have said that, I was being too subjective with my interpretation."
"Maybe you weren't," Yunoki replied softly as he turned once again to face the balcony. "Maybe it just means I should not be playing the flute anymore."
"No, don't say that!" Kahoko shook her head quickly. "I have always loved your music, although it was a pity that you no longer play the flute, but when I saw that you joined the production as well, I was truly glad!" Blushing, Kahoko added. "I was actually hoping secretly that you would be able to overseer the practice not only as the project manager, but also as a member of the orchestra. It's like music was able to bring you back to us!"
Yunoki did not say anything as his eyes continued to look toward the vast school ground beneath them. Intimidated by the silent treatment from Yunoki, Kahoko lowered her head and dared not make a sound. To be honest, Kahoko noticed something very different about Yunoki today. Unlike how well Yunoki was at hiding his true feelings, Kahoko noticed all the façade, the pretence had disappeared. Instead she saw a fragile, hurt, desolated Yunoki Azuma.
After a long moment of silence, finally Yunoki opened his mouth and asked. "How do you manage to live everyday with such passion? How could you live with so much hoping, so many dreams? Does it not tire you to believe so much?"
"I guess because," With a smile Kahoko replied. "Unlike Yunoki senpai who is so capable, if I do not hope and dream, there is nothing left for me. Also, how would I know I would fail if I have never tried?"
Yunoki fell silent again upon Kahoko's answer. The only sound was the soft breeze that brushed passed both Yunoki and Kahoko and the distant sounds of other music students practising throughout the school premises. Luckily before Kahoko felt she was strangled by this silence, Yunoki finally gave a sigh and ended the topic, "It's late. I will take you home now."
After Yunoki stopped the car before Kahoko's house, unlike how she always would quickly flee into the house, Kahoko remained seated in the passenger seat. Seeing this, lifting his eyebrow in amusement, Yunoki asked. "What's the matter? Aren't you supposed to be making a run for it like how you usually would?"
"Not today," Slowly shaking her head Kahoko replied. "I can't leave Yunoki senpai now."
Knowing he was probably not going to like Kahoko's answer, Yunoki asked anyway. "And why not?"
Kahoko took a look at Yunoki, and although he still had the same patronising, superior look, she knew something was different about Yunoki today. When Kahoko heard the sound of his flute, she did not need to have the hearing ability like Kaji to know Yunoki was in a most frail state.
Outwardly Yunoki Azuma may appear as a mean tormenter, constantly teasing her, however when she was lost, when she needed support, Yunoki always managed to point her to the right direction. And now it was clear to Kahoko that Yunoki needed help and support, how could she pretend she did not see?
"Yunoki senpai, I am not sure what I can do, but I know this much." Looking straight into Yunoki's eyes, Kahoko replied. "You need someone beside you right now, and I am willing to stay here with you for a little while until you feel better."
The gleam in Yunoki's eyes changed immediately upon Kahoko's response. As if what Kahoko said had uncovered the wound Yunoki had been trying to hide, as a reflex in defence, a dangerous smile crept onto Yunoki's beautiful lips. "Hehh…that was quite a bold statement, Kahoko. I never knew you were this aggressive?"
"Aggressive?" Not knowing what Yunoki was referring to, Kahoko blinked.
Instead of explaining, to Kahoko's terror, Yunoki leaned over and pinning her to the seat with his arm, Yunoki whispered deeply and seductively by her ear. "Are you implying that if I don't feel better tonight, you will spend the night with me…?"
"Eh?" Finally understanding what Yunoki was implying, Kahoko's heart started pounding so hard as if it was about to jump out of her mouth. "Yu….Yunoki senpai!! It's…it's not like that!"
Seeing how panicked Kahoko was, Yunoki chuckled in tease as he slowly moved away. Sinking back into the driver's seat, Yunoki gave Kahoko a deadly seductive smile. "Do not forget I am a man, saying something like that could mislead me."
Not able to cope with such smile, Kahoko lowered her head quickly and felt her ears burning hot, and her heartbeat still thumping hard. In embarrassment, Kahoko's hand quickly reached for the car door handle. Just before she stepped out of the car, Kahoko turned and took another look at Yunoki. However it was then, she noticed although faint, the lost, hurt lonely gleam in Yunoki's eyes.
Upon such look, a certain discovery hit Kahoko. Knowing he had not been the person he was today, Yunoki must have wanted to keep everyone away. What he had just said was merely an attempt to send her away because she had pin pointed the problem and uncovered what he had wanted to hide.
Taking her hand away from the door handle, Kahoko sat back into the car and took a deep breath. "It…it doesn't matter!" Turning to face Yunoki straight on she concluded. "Although I probably would regret this, but I know I cannot walk away from you now. I am going to stay beside you. If you want to tell me anything I will listen, and if you did not want to talk about it, I will just sit here quietly beside you too."
This time it was Yunoki's turn to be surprised. A softer expression came onto Yunoki's face when he saw the obstinate, determined look in Kahoko's eyes. She was still stubborn like how he had known her. How she declared war against him when he threatened her to quit the music concur, how she worked harder although no one would believe in her.
"Very well then," Switching the car engine back on Yunoki gave Kahoko a smile; the sort that Kahoko knew was genuine. "But note that I will not drive you back home again tonight even if you beg me…"
---
No, he cannot be serious! He must be teasing and making fun of me again!
Kahoko repeated that sentence over and over trying to stay calm. Her head remained low and her eyes fixed on her shaking hands for she knew not where else to look.
"What's the matter, Kahoko? Are you just going to stand out here all night?" As if he was enjoying every little detail of Kahoko's panicked, frightful reaction, Yunoki Azuma asked on purpose. As if to rub it in, Yunoki moved up closer to Kahoko, and leaning down he lifted Kahoko's chin to face him so their faces were only a few centimetres away. "I thought you said you would stay with me until I feel better, don't tell me you are backing out now?"
Kahoko felt as if she was going to faint. In the beginning, they stopped by at a restaurant for dinner, then after some talk, she thought Yunoki was starting to feel better and she could leave him. Unfortunately the next thing she knew was they have arrived a five star hotel, and here she was, standing outside a room.
Yes, a room. It was obvious to Kahoko that Yunoki did not book two rooms, but one.
"Err…Yunoki senpai," Kahoko squeezed out a smile and attempted to move away from Yunoki but only to find that she was already right up against the wall. "I…I have to go home soon, you know, my family will be worried and everything…"
"You have a point," To Kahoko surprise, Yunoki actually moved away from her. Just when she thought she was safe, Kahoko saw Yunoki took out his phone and made a call.
"Hino residence,"
The moment Kahoko figured out who Yunoki actually made the call to, in horror Kahoko quickly grabbed Yunoki's phone from him and answered. "He…hello! It's me!"
"Kahoko? What's going on?"
Knowing it was her sister on the phone, with slight relief Kahoko explained. "One-chan, err…I, I am with a friend at the moment, and err, you see, she just broke up with her boyfriend, so she is very upset…"
"Kahoko," Before Kahoko finished her sentence, her sister interrupted.
"Yes?"
"Don't forget to use protection."
Kahoko nearly dropped the phone when she heard what her crazy sister said. "One-chan!!! What are you talking about?!"
"Hehe…Kahoko, I saw already from the bedroom window. A guy in a posh car dropped you off, but you ended up driving off with him again. And you are not a little girl anymore, what else would you be doing?"
"It's not like that!! I am really just…"
"Don't worry, Kahoko. I will make up something to tell mum, so, just relax and enjoy!"
Totally not understanding the misery Kahoko was in, her sister left her that sentence and hung up. Slowly moving her eyes back onto Yuonki, she found him smiling.
---
Don't forget to use protection!
You are not a little girl anymore, what else would you be doing?
It's all her sister's fault! After that phone call, standing here inside the stunningly beautiful hotel room, Kahoko felt she could pass out with nervousness anytime. Yet, as expected, unlike her, Yunoki stood calmly before the window, enjoying the stunning view outside.
"Kahoko,"
Kahoko felt her whole body jumped when Yunoki finally turned his focus away from the view to look at her. Quickly reaching for the television remote control, Kahoko said quickly. "I, I wonder what is on TV? I remember there is a very interesting program on tonight…"
Unfortunately her attempt of deterring Yunoki's focus failed as calmly taking the remote control from her hand, Yunoki smirked. "Watching TV?" His deadly beautiful, dangerous eyes fixed on Kahoko as he turned off the television. "Since we are both adults now, shouldn't we be doing something more exciting?"
"Eh?"
Before Kahoko could react, Yunoki reached out his hand and with a gentle push against her shoulder, Kahoko lost balance and fell right onto the bed.
---
"You have a beautiful swing, Aoi. You should join us to play golf more often"
Smiling politely to the compliment, Kaji Aoi gave a bow. "It is my pleasure, Kobayashi-san."
"You flattered him too much, Aoi is still amateur at golf," Standing next to Kaji Aoi was a middle aged man that has the same pair of emerald green eyes as his son.
Saturday morning was just another routine day for Kaji Aoi to join his father and his upper class social circle for some golf, tennis, and friendly activities. Today was no different for Kaji. Early in the morning, he accompanied his father to play golf with a work associate that arrived Tokyo just yesterday.
"I like Aoi very much," Turning to Kaji Aoi's father, Kobayashi suggested. "Let me go put my golf clubs back in my room then I will come down and join you for breakfast."
"Leave the labour to the young ones, you and I go reserve a table." Kaji's father smiled and turned to his son. "Aoi, help return Kobayashi-san's golf clubs to his room."
"Sure." In politeness Aoi helped lifting the heavy golf bag off Kobayashi's shoulder.
"You are a polite gentleman, got a girlfriend yet?" Impressed with Aoi's helpful acts, Kobayashi asked.
"Unfortunately not," Smiling in return Kaji replied. "I am not that popular in reality."
"Don't listen to him," Kaji's father laughed. "Aoi is still head over heels over his high school love and refuse to court anyone else."
"Really?" Amused Kobayashi asked. "It's very rare nowadays for anyone to still be so loyal to his high school girlfriend."
"She is unfortunately not my girlfriend," Kaji blushed and replied in embarrassment. "Just someone I have admired since high school. To me, it was enough to just remain friends with her because I believe there are better suited person for her than me."
"Well, I must say I am even more impressed, Aoi." Kobayashi nodded in consent. "Your attitude towards her is pure and honourable. But I believe a man should fight for what they want. How do you know you were not the person that could truly make her happy unless you try? Most of all, how could you be sure that others would make a better match?"
"Thank you for your advice, Kobayashi-san." Knowing although what Kobayashi said has its strength, but Kaji had already made up his mind to stand aside and protect Kahoko.
"Anyway, I won't make you stand here and listen to me lecturing you." Taking out his room key card, Kobayashi handed it to Kaji. "Thank you for the help, my room number is 1889."
---
To Kaji Aoi, he was merely being a polite person, helping the elderly carry his golf clubs back to his room. Never could he imagine that with such an act, he would witness what he thought was a nightmare. Something that shook the belief he so strongly held onto a few minutes back.
"Yunoki senpai…"
After Kaji placed the golf clubs into Kobayashi's room, just as he opened the door, to his surprise he heard a familiar voice. The voice of the very girl he was just talking to Kobayashi about. As a reflex, Kaji's hand stopped as he allowed the door to only have a small opening, enough for him to see the two people coming out from the room two doors down from where he was.
Kaji felt his hands turned cold when he recognised the faces of the people that walked out of the hotel room together. One was indeed Hino Kahoko, and the other…
"Don't worry, I will take you home now." Yunoki teased. "After all, we have spent an intimate night together. As a gentleman, shouldn't I accompany you home to explain to your parents?"
Kahoko's face turned bright red immediately with what Yunoki said. "No need! I will go home by myself!"
The more embarrassed Kahoko was, the happier Yunoki seemed. "Should we have breakfast by the beach, celebrate our first morning together?"
"No thanks! I am going home now!"
Ignoring Kahoko's complaint, Yunoki happily placed his arm around Kahoko's shoulder as he led the way to the elevator.
However, there was no way Kaji Aoi could share the same joy as he felt anger and rage taking over his being with the shocking discovery. Leaning his back against the wall, Kaji slowly sat down onto the floor. Taking another look at his watch he knew there was no way Yunoki and Kahoko would appear coming out of a hotel room at eight in the morning if they did not spend a night together.
How could he be this naïve? Kaji finally understood what Kobayashi meant when he asked him how could he be sure that other would be a better match for Kahoko? This much he knows though, in no way would Yunoki be the right person for Kahoko!
Outwardly looking normal and calm, Kaji returned to the breakfast table with his father and Kobayashi. Although he tried his best to be part of the conversation, but whatever he just saw was enough to take away his calmness. Ironically, Kaji noticed for the first time his mind was clearer than ever.
"Aoi? What's wrong? You looked troubled."
Lifting his head, Kaji gave Kobayashi a smile. "Kobayashi-san, I was just thinking that you were right. It was not enough to just step aside and not do anything if you love someone." A clear determined expression showed through Kaji's beautiful eyes as he concluded. "Now I know, no matter what happens, I want no other, but her, as my companion for life."
---
"Kahoko~"
Standing by Kahoko's bedroom door was her evil older sister. With a grin she skipped into Kahoko's room and teased. "So? How was your first night out? Was he gentle to you?"
"ONEEEEE-CHANNNNNN!!!!!" Kahoko groaned. "Nothing happened! Yunoki senpai and I just played chess all night!"
"…Huh?"
Blushing, Kahoko turned away. "Like I told you, Yunoki senpai and I are not like that! We are just purely friends!"
Kahoko's sister gaped when she heard what Kahoko said. "What…? You are saying that you spend an entire night alone with a healthy young man and all you guys did was play chess?!"
Puffing her cheeks Kahoko decided to ignore her sister. She knew no one will believe her innocence, but it was true nothing happened between Yunoki and her the entire night.
After Yunoki pushed her onto the bed, Kahoko really panicked. "Yu…Yunoki senpai!! I am not…we cannot!!" Trying to push Yunoki away Kahoko begged and pleaded. "I am not as adult as you think! I…I have not, I have never…please, I am not experienced at all, my first time is very important to me, so please…!!!"
Suddenly, without expectation Yunoki started laughing as he moved away from Kahoko. "Relax, Kahoko…I know you are not experienced." Straightening his attire, Yunoki grinned. "From what I can analyse, I doubt Tsukimori would have gone that far when you were a couple. He is too upright and rigid in that matter. And Hihara? I doubt he had even held your hand."
Kahoko could not make out a word as she felt her face still boiling hot from what just happened. Seeing Kahoko's expressions, Yunoki walked up to a sliding door and opened it. To Kahoko's surprise, behind the sliding door was not a wardrobe, but a living room.
"Because your reaction was particularly interesting, so I played along." Grinning Yunoki explained as he led the way into the living room. "On the other side of this room is another bedroom, so don't worry, after we have enjoyed our cup of tea, you and I can return to our own rooms for the night." Stopping, Yunoki added on purpose. "Disappointed?"
Once again Kahoko had the urge to throw something at Yunoki. She should have known and learned by now! Yunoki Azuma is nothing but a big evil bully!!
So very innocently Kahoko and Yunoki sat in the living room, enjoying the pot of very nice green tea, played a game of chess. Unfortunately like how Kahoko could never defeat Yunoki's manipulative strategies in real life, she lost game after game to Yunoki in chess. Annoyed by her continuous defeat, Kahoko declared war against Yunoki once again and vowed to not sleep until she defeated him.
So that was the truth about what happened to Kahoko and Yunoki spending a night together in a five star hotel. To Kahoko's relief though, she noticed the sadness and sorrow she saw in Yunoki's eyes seemed to have disappeared. She was glad to know, by spending time with him, she was able to help Yunoki recover. Although she had hoped to be as far away from him as possible, but she knew that Yunoki would always be a very important friend to her. She will be there for him when needed.
---
Unfortunately although nothing happened between Kahoko and Yunoki, it did not appear the same in other people's eyes, for it was not only Kaji that saw. Urahara Miyako frowned when she saw the photographs placed before her. On the pictures were two people entering a hotel room, and few hours later, coming out of the hotel.
"Urahara-sama," The man that sat opposite Miyako smiled calmly as he explained. "I am sure you recognise the people on these photos?"
"Yes," Rolling her eyes Miyako replied in boredom. "They were my fiancé and his high school friend." Leaning forward, she challenged the man with a calm smile. "If you are here to blackmail me for some money, it is not going to work. A big family has after all raised me, I know how this world works. Who doesn't have lovers here and there? Marriage to us means nothing. It's just a trophy, a business plan. It is none of my business who my fiancé spends the night with."
"Do not worry, Urahara-sama. Someone has already paid me for these photographs." With a sly smirk, the man stated. "I was paid to take these pictures and then show them to you."
With the man's answer, Miyako frowned. "Why would anyone want to do that?"
"Let's put it this way," The man got up from his seat as a sign that he had finished his duty. "There are many that do not benefit from this engagement, and they are willing to do anything to make sure it doesn't happen."
Stop it from happening? Smiling mockingly to herself, Miyako felt her heart ached. Guess everyone will only see this engagement as a business contract, a formality, but deep under, no one knows the true meaning of this engagement except her…
After the man left, Miyako moved her eyes onto the pictures again. Picking one up in her hand, in the picture, her fiancé Yunoki Azuma and Hino Kahoko were coming out of the hotel room, with his arm around Kahoko's shoulder, Yunoki was smiling.
It was a genuine smile, unlike the kind he would show in front of everyone else…
"Miyako-sama,"
When the maid knocked on the door, as a reflex Miyako shoved the photo into the music book next to her. "Yes?"
"Tsuchiura-sama has arrived."
Nodding in acknowledgement, Miyako grabbed the books from beside her. "I will be out in two minutes."
---
"Thank you for coming all the way to pick me up." Miyako thanked with a polite smile.
"No, it's alright." Tsuchiura replied. "I should be the one thanking you. Is it true that Hamai Misa would like to see my work?"
Tsuchiura felt he was in heaven when Miyako told him that his idol, Hamai Misa had invited him over to her house to discuss over his composition. To him it was like once in a lifetime chance to be able to receive advise and training from world-class pianist Hamai Misa. Even if this meant he would have to go to that irritating Tsukimori's house, he was willing.
"…Tsuchiura,"
Yes, even if it meant that he had to see that proud unfriendly frown when Tsukimori opened the door for him, it was okay. Shrugging his shoulders, Tsuchiura sighed. "It's not like I am here to visit you, so no need to give me that face, Tsukimori."
"Hi, Len!" Waving with a big smile Miyako greeted. "I didn't know you have returned from Vienna!"
"You know him?" Tsuchiura asked in surprise.
"Of course, I have been learning piano here since I was small remember?" Miyako replied. Turning to Tsukimori, Miyako teased. "So are we allowed to come in?"
Moving away from the door, Tsukimori invited Miyako and Tsuchiura into the house. "My mother is in the music room."
"Thank you," Miyako smiled and headed for the music room together with Tsuchiura.
As Tsukimori turned to return to his room, from the corner of his eyes, he saw a photograph dropped on the floor. As he went to pick it up, Miyako also returned to the living room in haste.
"Ah, Len, that's the photo I dropped…" Miyako stopped all of a sudden when she noticed Tsukimori's hand that was holding onto the photograph started to shake. Puzzled with Tsukimori's reaction, Miyako looked up at Tsukimori. That was then, for the first time, Miyako saw that forever cold, uninterested poker face turned pale.
i Although the Yunoki family was a famous kado Clan, the main wealth of the family came from its family corporation run by Yunoki Azuma's father and two elder brothers. This information was taken from Yunoki's chain love events in the game Corda 2.