So! Here we are... chapter 5. I'm a little bit nervous about what you all will think. I apologise in advance for how long it is but I spend ages building the scenes up and what not. Leo and Luna would you mind doing the disclaimer for me?
Luna: We'd love to! Good to have you back Teeny!
Leo: Teeny does not own Yu-gi-oh 5d's
Luna: But she does own her own characters and this story!
Leo and Luna: Enjoy!
Teeny: Thank you :) You heard it guys! Let's bring it!
Leo: Got anything to eat...?
Teeny: Grrrr
Chapter 5 - Next Encounter
It was the day after the ball and the dreaded announcement. Akiza still wasn't dealing with it very well. Sitting in the living room, she gazed at the ring that Rei had put on her finger. Made of white gold, it had a twisted design – like a rope and there was a massive square cut diamond in the middle. It was unusual to the extent that it was almost ugly despite the diamond. He didn't even know what her favourite gem was. It was sign that they barely knew each other. There was a knock at the door.
"Come in Cordi..." Akiza said before remembering that her friend was now staying in a hotel whilst she sorted out her affairs.
"It's just me honey." Akiza put her hand to her forehead as her mother walked in. "What's the matter Akiza?"
"It's nothing…" Setsuko continued to stare at her daughter.
"You know that I can tell when you're lying to me right?" Akiza turned to face her mother and Setsuko could see that her daughter wasn't happy. Sighing, she took her daughter's hand and grasped it tightly.
"Honey what is it? You should be happy – you're getting married!"
"To someone I don't love or know for that matter!" Ah, that was the issue then.
"Is that the only thing that's bothering you?"
"The ONLY thing? Mother, it's a major reason, I can't marry someone I don't love!" Akiza was clearly distressed about what she was being asked to do.
"I think you've been given a wonderful opportunity. Rei Deveraux is a charming young man, with a good eye for business – he'll do well." Setsuko looked up from her cup of tea and saw Akiza looking at her in disbelief.
"Mother, if you knew me – you would realize that to me, that makes no difference. You may have been happy to forgo your personal feelings and do what your parents told you to – but I won't!"
And with that, Akiza got up and walked up to her bedroom. Before she got there Maximilian and Rei Deveraux came out of her father's study – Hideo followed them and catching sight of Akiza, he smiled.
"My little rose! Just the person we wanted to see – how are you feeling?" Akiza was stunned; her father hadn't called her that since she was very little, before his political duties became the main focus in his life.
"Father, Mr. Deveraux and…"Glancing at Rei, Akiza couldn't continue and she quickly ran up the stairs to her bedroom. Just as she was about to shut her door, it was pushed open with such force she was surprised that it didn't come off its hinges. Rei stood there and he didn't look happy.
"What was that about? You didn't even acknowledge my presence!"
"How can you be happy about this situation...? You've taken this very calmly…it's almost as if you knew…" It dawned on Akiza. Rei nodded and confirmed her thoughts.
"I knew beforehand, your father had discussed it with my parents before the ball." Akiza couldn't believe it and before she could say anything, Rei spoke again. "You're not happy about the arrangement and I understand that but frankly, I don't care. This wedding will be going ahead and you have no say in the matter – apart from the wedding details." Akiza's eyes narrowed. Seeing this, Rei continued. " You can glare at me all you like but at the end of the day, as your fiancée and the future head of our father's company – what I say goes and I demand complete loyalty, otherwise there will be consequences." Rei stood staring at Akiza for a few minutes as she tried to get to grips with her new role as a "to-be-wife". Leaving her to think about what he'd said, Rei left Akiza alone in her room.
"It's almost like I have no rights. I have to speak to my father on this matter…if he won't do anything about it, I don't know who to turn to!"
In the workshop there was an awkward silence whilst Jack, Crow and Bruno ate breakfast.
"Is he going to come down, do you think?" Bruno was slightly worried about Yusei.
"Shh, he's coming!" Crow whispered as they heard Yusei coming down the stairs and into the main room.
"I'm fine guys, there's nothing more to say!" Yusei said whilst getting something to eat.
"Like hell there's nothing to say! You might not want to, but she sure has some explaining to do!" Jack had had enough and slammed his coffee cup down on the table so hard; it ended up having a crack run through it.
"Wow Jack, we never knew you cared!" said Crow sarcastically.
"Why you…" Before anything could happen, Yusei stopped what he was doing to speak.
"Guys! She's the Senator's daughter, so it's natural to presume that they stay within their own circles."
"Yeah, selective breeding and all that…" Bruno seemed to understand what Yusei was getting at. Jack glared at him.
"The thing is Yusei, you are from the same circles this girl runs in – so what's stopping you?"
"Everything Jack!"
"What?"
"It's not like that anymore – I grew up in the Satellite, so everything's changed. Besides, I don't even know where to find her and there's no guarantee that she'd even see me or if her father would even let me…" The men all fell silent until Crow clapped his hands in satisfaction.
"Got it! We ask Zero and Sara!"
"That's great …except we don't know if they're busy or not." Bruno pointed out.
"Yeah aren't they meeting that girl – Cordelia or something?"
"Oh, they might be…" Again a silence fell and suddenly there was a knock on their door. Jack walked up to answer it and the next thing all four guys knew, the workshop was full of girls – well three.
"Carly, what are you doing here?" Carly's eyes flashed.
"Oh, are we not welcome?" Looking around and seeing Jack's coffee cup with a crack in it, the girls understood.
"Bad start to the day huh Jack?" Sophie smiled wryly.
"If you must know, we were discussing Yusei's predicament." The women weren't sure what he meant and they all turned to look at the man in question.
"There's not really much to say…" Handing the girls a cup of tea each, Yusei continued. "I met the Senator's daughter at the ball last night and to say that we hit it off is an understatement. We spent the evening together up until the announcement." The girls all looked at each other.
" So, you've got a thing for the Senator's daughter Yusei?" inquired Emma.
"She is beautiful, you have to admit that!" Sophie sighed wistfully.
There was a silence and Carly got out her notebook. "Care to comment Yusei?" Pen poised over the notebook, Carly looked up to see everyone staring at her. "What?" Shaking his head, Jack swiftly took the pad away and grabbing her hand, pulled her up from the sofa and after allowing her time to hand her cup to Sophie, he picked up his jacket.
"If you want a story, you can write about the Master of Faster's dueling class." And with that, Jack left dragging a reluctant Carly out with him.
"Actually guys, I have to head over to the university for the signing in." Yusei smiled at the two couples and walked over to his duel runner. Climbing on, the door opened and with a wave of his hand he sped out to calls of "Good luck!"
"Luck." He thought. 'That's something I need a lot of…"
"Why did you drag me out of there?" Carly wasn't pleased.
"Because, my nosey girlfriend, Yusei wasn't very happy about the situation and I don't think it's right of you to write that down."
"But Yusei is big news – he's always been big news."
"Yes, but he's your friend too and the whole scenario is something that really bothers him – do you understand?" Smiling at him, Carly nodded.
"Okay, but I am a reporter after all!" At the look on Carly's face, Jack laughed.
"How I wish for the days when you weren't an official reporter because then you weren't required to write reports." Carly frowned.
"Well I am a reporter but I will not write anything about Yusei's predicament with the Senator's daughter."
"Thank you." Jack kissed her cheek and they continued walking to his dueling class when Carly spoke again.
"Question. Why are we walking?"
"Because it means I can hold your hand." Carly laughed and grasped Jack's hand as the walked through the city breathing in the fresh air, together.
Driving through the city on his duel runner, Yusei was thinking to himself about the wedding of Akiza.
"Akiza, for your sake, I hope you're happy." Yusei loved the city – despite its flaws and having lived there all his life he felt that the city was a part of him. He never wanted anything bad to happen to it and the city's people. Arriving at the university, Yusei parked his duel runner in the designated area. There was a crowd of people in the reception where they were waiting to be seen by their professors. Walking up to the reception desk, Yusei spoke to the woman behind the mahogany desk that had been waxed so much he could see his reflection.
"Hello, I was wondering who I needed to speak to about signing in?"
"Can I have your name?"
"Yusei Fudo." The woman looked at her list.
"Okay and can I have your subject please?"
"Advanced Science." The young woman raised her eyes to look at Yusei and smiled.
"Well well well…that's interesting." Yusei laughed and agreed.
"I understand." The woman nodded.
"Your tutor will be Philippe Windsor and he'll be assisted by Ariel Maddison."
"Right, thanks." Yusei walked away and sat down. There was only a short wait until a middle-aged man walked up to the front of the reception. Clearing his throat, he caught everyone's attention.
"Good morning students. I am Dr. Philippe Windsor and I will be taking the Advanced Science program." Yusei looked at the professor with interest. He didn't look like your typical scientific genius but then again Yusei knew a lot about being pre-judged. Dr. Philippe continued to speak.
"Those of you who are starting my program please walk through these double doors and wait in the next room. Those of you starting another program, good luck and someone will be with you shortly." A small group of people stood up and headed in the direction indicated. Yusei stood up and moved to follow them. Walking past the scientist, he noted he had an edge of excitement about him.
"Good morning Mr. Fudo, this is most surprising. The famous duel champion studying in my class…how exciting!" Smiling, Yusei let Dr. Philippe walk ahead of him, who continued to chat to him as they entered what could only be described as a planetarium. It wasn't but the domed shaped room was full of computers and other equipment Yusei couldn't wait to use. He'd definitely found his calling.
It was time for the evening meal at Izinski Manor and Akiza was in her room getting ready for something she didn't want to attend. Picking an outfit, she proceeded to change and smoothing down her satin top, she sat at her dressing table. Staring at herself in the mirror, Akiza let her mind flow to the young man who had plagued her thoughts since she had met him.
"Oh Yusei. What am I to do? I can't marry someone I don't love…what would you think of me if I just gave in and accepted it?"
Rei was waiting for her at the foot of the marble staircase and casting a critical eye over her outfit, he shrugged. "It'll do I suppose." Akiza's eyes narrowed and when he offered her his arm, she point-blank refused it. Pointedly looking at her and his arm, she gave in and was practically frog-marched into the dining room, where their parents greeted them.
"Hello darlings! Have you had a good day?" Setsuko was very happy to see her daughter and future son-in-law together, although Akiza did look a little stiff.
"I've had a wonderful day Mrs. Izinski, thank you." Smiling at their parents, Rei pulled out Akiza's chair and indicated that she should sit. When they were both seated, Hideo signaled for their first course. There was a rather awkward silence and the awkward silence continued, whilst they were being served their starter. Hideo spoke, his voice was loud and clear – to the extent that it seemed like it was vibrating throughout Akiza's head.
"How are the wedding preparations going Akiza?" Akiza looked up from her soup and waited until she had everyone's full attention before speaking.
"I don't know, Mother and Mrs Deveraux have taken charge – I have no intention of participating in this." With that, as she expected, an uproar exploded.
"WHAT!"
"I don't understand…"
"What do you mean?"
"Did you listen to a word I said earlier?" Rei spoke quietly but his words had the most impact on everyone else, except Akiza. Glancing at him, she continued to eat her meal and didn't say anything else. Furious, Rei turned to Hideo. "Say something!" Glaring at the young man, at his rudeness, he spoke to his daughter.
"Akiza, my little rose – what's wrong?" At his soft tone, Akiza looked at her father in disbelief.
"Are you honestly asking me that question?"
"Well I don't understand what's wrong."
"Why would you make me marry somebody I don't love?" Akiza's mother intervened at this point.
"Sweetheart, do you even know what love is?"
"Well I'm certainly not feeling anything for him… well maybe contempt!" Akiza shot back pointing at Rei.
"Hideo! Control your daughter!" Maximilian was furious and with that Akiza excused herself and went up to her room.
It was a while later when her father knocked on her door. "Come in father." Akiza was sat on her bed reading.
"How did you know it was me?"
"You have a very distinctive knock" said Akiza, unsmiling. Pausing before he drew up a chair and sat facing her, he waited until she looked up from her book, which he noted was about medicine.
"What's wrong?" Akiza looked at Hideo for a long time before speaking.
"Do you want me to be happy?" Hideo looked bemused.
"Of course I do, it's what I've always wanted." Acknowledging this, Akiza continued.
"So why, are you making me marry Rei?" Hideo sighed.
"Because, he's someone who will become the head of the company that his father and I built together."
"That's not a good enough reason."
"I want you to be provided for, to live a comfortable life and he can give you that. I don't understand why you don't want to marry him, why is that?" Akiza was really frustrated now. She was furious that her father thought he could make decisions regarding her future without telling her and she was about to let him know exactly what she thought.
"I'll tell you why! He never listens to what I have to say and he's under the impression that he can tell me what to do and I'm an independent woman. I don't want to be stuck with somebody who doesn't understand me. Not to mention the fact that he's a stuck up, arrogant, slimy pig who thinks women should be seen and not heard! What century is he living in?! He demands complete loyalty and respect yet he doesn't show me the same! I have no rights father do you understand that? No rights! And I'm not going to stay here and listen to that for the rest of my life! I can't."
Whilst she was speaking Hideo was getting angrier by the second. He'd tried getting her to understand but she was throwing it back in his face. How could she not see the opportunity she was being given and she'd just decided to grind it into the ground? It hurt him and he wasn't going to let this slide.
"How can you say those things? Do you know how disrespectful that is? After everything your mother and I have done for you?" He got up to leave, shaking with anger. As he got to the door he turned back to look at his daughter and Akiza could see that he was furious, beyond furious in fact, he was livid. "Rei Deveraux offers you a lifestyle you've been accustomed to and yet you are determined to reject everything he does for you? How ungrateful can you be Akiza? I'll tell you this once and only once. You will marry Rei and you will do so with a smile on your face. You will take charge of your wedding preparations or there will be consequences. And I am never to hear you say those slanderous words against Rei again- DO YOU UNDERSTAND?" Hideo Izinski left the room radiating more anger than Akiza had ever seen – since that fateful day when she was six. With tears in her eyes, she didn't know what to do.
It had been a week since Akiza's outburst at the dinner table and her parents had cracked down on her hard. Rei and Akiza had spent more time together than the other wanted, causing more friction between the two. Realizing this, Akiza's parents made a drastic decision.
"We're allowing you to study at the university." Hideo explained. Before Akiza could say anything, her mother continued.
"But our only condition is that you are escorted there and back everyday – do you understand?"
Sighing, but getting the fact that nothing will convince them otherwise, Akiza nodded. Patting her daughter's knee, Setsuko was delighted. Hideo nodded, pleased as well. Things hadn't been easy for the family in a while and this agreement was a step up. Handing their daughter a prospectus, they left the room.
"It's a start" thought Akiza "but it doesn't mean that I'm willing to go through with the wedding, that's something that will need to be worked on."
Things were much better for Yusei and the group. Yusei's university course really tested him and yet it convinced him that he was definitely in the right place. Entering the dome shaped room, he was greeted by Ariel.
"Hey Yusei!" She had looked up from her paperwork to see the most promising student walking towards her.
"Hey Ariel –how's it going?" Indicating her paperwork, he grinned at her.
"It's an absolute nightmare and it's gradually building up."
"I wouldn't worry – you'll get through it." Nodding, Ariel agreed with him. Just as she was about to say something, Jack, Crow and Bruno burst into the room – well, Jack casually walked in – looking impossibly cool
"Hey! You guys can't be in here!"
"Sorry Ariel, they're friends of mine – what's up guys?" With Crow and Bruno gasping for air, Jack answered for them.
"You aren't going to believe who's enrolled here."
"Who?" Jack rolled his eyes.
"Miss Akiza Izinski." Yusei's breathing hitched and he quickly masked his shock.
"She…what?"
"Yeah, just this morning in fact." Ariel spoke.
"Her parents allowed here to enroll here, as long as she's escorted to and from the university." They all turned to look at her.
"How do you know that?"
"I heard them say that to the administration team." Jack frowned.
"So you were eavesdropping…classy." Ariel raised her eyebrows at him before speaking.
"I wasn't intentionally eavesdropping, I happened to be at the desk at the time and because she's so stunning, people are bound to be around her and I wasn't an exception." Ariel, who was gorgeous herself, did look ashamed as she said this. "Besides, why did you come all this way to tell Yusei this?" There was a slightly awkward pause and everyone turned to look at Yusei, who didn't say anything. "No reason." Yusei remained vague. Jack continued to frown at Ariel.
"Who are you anyway?" Bruno had got his breath back and was joining in on the conversation.
"Sorry guys, this is Ariel Maddison. She's the professor's assistant."
"Oh, another brainiac...fabulous!" Everyone laughed. Ariel smiled
"That's me – total brainiac."
"Anyway, we just thought you ought to know about Akiza and we'll se you later…" The guys all turned to leave. Yusei sighed – this was going to be a long day.
Akiza was having a great time. Studying to become a doctor was the best choice she'd ever made. It had been about a week since she'd signed up for the course and it had pleased her so much that she was finally allowed some space and freedom, she'd been a little more tolerant of Rei… but not too much. Coming back to the present, her professor was completing his lecture.
"…and that concludes our lecture for today – please go over your notes and we will continue our discussion on this subject next week." Gathering up her books, Akiza walked to the front with everyone else. "Miss Izinski, please wait a moment." She did so.
"I just wanted to say that you show a lot of potential but that needs to be backed up by a lot of commitment and motivation. My concern is that with your upcoming wedding, you could very easily fall behind." Akiza nodded, this didn't surprise her, but with her determination to stop the wedding from happening, hopefully that shouldn't be a problem.
"I understand, but I have never wanted anything so much and I can promise you that I will work hard to make sure that I don't fall behind and that I graduate to the best of my ability."
" Okay, just so you know where you stand."
"Thank you professor." Coming out of the lecture hall, Akiza moved into the outside eating area. Seeing it was packed she walked under the stone arch covered in vines to move into a more private area that was not used as much. Picking a table, she proceeded to eat and read through her notes. She was unaware that someone was coming up behind her and the tap on her shoulder caused her to stifle a small shriek of surprise. Turning around, the sun blinded her so her eyes took time to adjust, allowing her to see…
"Yusei?"
Yusei couldn't believe his eyes when he came out of his class and saw the woman he hadn't been able to forget since he'd met her. He had been pre-warned about her presence but it was still a shock, he hadn't expected to see her so soon. He took a deep breath and tapped her on the shoulder. It was fair to say, he hadn't been prepared for her to scream.
"Yusei?"
"Akiza, it is you! Why are you here?"
"I enrolled here – for the medical course." Yusei was confused.
"But why? And how did your parents agree to this?" Akiza smiled.
"It was partially their idea, I just chose the course. It gets me away from Rei Deveraux…" Yusei saw Akiza frown.
"What's wrong?" Cocking his head to one side, Yusei observed her body language and he could tell she was worried.
"Nothing…" Suddenly, Yusei couldn't hold it in anymore.
"Why didn't you tell me who you were when we met at the ball?" Akiza looked up at him, surprised.
"I've spent my entire life with everyone knowing who I am and I find that when people realize that, they change and are not really being themselves just people they think my parents will approve of. I guess I felt like seeing what it would be like to not be recognized and treated like any other person." She turned away slightly, embarrassed by her reason. "Is that so bad? Does it bother you that much?" A small grin was tugging at the corners of Yusei's mouth and he shook his head.
"No, it doesn't bother me. I just wish I had known but I understand your reasoning." Yusei looked thoughtful and when he spoke again, he was serious. " Do things you want to do, not because someone says you should. If that's hard then I'm here for you – as a friend." Smiling at him, Akiza agreed.
"Sure…" A slight blush appeared on her cheeks. Not that Yusei noticed, he was preoccupied by his thoughts.
"Well you're welcome to come and hang out with us if you want – but be wary of Jack, he'll bite."
"Oh?"
"Yeah, he was a bit sore after what happened at the ball…the announcement."
"I didn't…" Yusei held up his hand.
"Don't worry about it, I understand." Realizing she had to meet her chauffer, Akiza got up. Before leaving she turned round and said "if given the chance, I would pick you over Rei Deveraux any day."
She walked away leaving Yusei looking a little bit perplexed.
"I'm worried Hideo." Maximilian was pacing the floor in Mr Izinski's office.
"About what?" asked Hideo as he turned the page of the newspaper he was reading.
"About your daughter! What if this bit of freedom gives her a cause to never want to marry my son?" Glancing up from the page, Hideo met Maximilian's gaze.
"Why should she not?"
"Hideo don't be stupid! You must have noticed that your daughter is very different compared to most young ladies of her social upbringing!?"
"Yes, she's smarter, actually uses her brain and wants to fight for what she believes in – not that I'd allow that of course."
"That's not funny!"
"Well? What do you want me to say?"
"She needs to be controlled – Rei has already had words with her." Hideo snorted.
"Well if he can't control her now, he's going to have a hard time when they're married!" Maximilian's face turned red.
"I will not have this! This arrangement was agreed upon purely out of the fact that you and I built this company from scratch. This is my family's chance – you can fall back on your political career, I cannot! If you can't control your daughter – then heaven forbid, I will allow Rei to control her how he sees fit!"
"You need to give her time, she's headstrong and it's a lot for her to take in. I got angry at her and I think that has helped put it into perspective, she knows what she has to do and I will do everything in my power to make sure she does it… regardless of her feelings."
"She better or there will be trouble." Enough said, the two men returned to their activities.
Yusei was finishing up his programme design, having stayed late. Dr Philippe came out of his office to see him tidying up. "Mr Fudo, why are you still here?" Looking round, Yusei smiled at the professor.
"I was just adding a few adjustments to the design and now I'm off." Philippe smiled.
"How like your Father you are, Yusei."
"You knew my father?" Dr Philippe sighed.
"Briefly, he died soon after. I'm impressed with your project."
"Really? I understand it's a very big risk."
"You're right, it is a big risk – if this goes wrong, it could mean the end of New Domino City. Do you understand what I'm saying my boy?" Yusei nodded.
"I'm not doing anything until I know what could happen." Dr Philippe smiled and seemed to agree with him.
"I find it rather strange and somewhat touching, that you've decided to complete your father's work."
"It's not only a sentimental reason. The logic behind the idea is also something I had to consider. The city needs the ENER:D reactor more than they realize. It has the potential to do so much good but the risks are pretty high too, but I believe I can do it."
"We will see…" Dr Philippe continued, "I don't think the city's councilors will be very enthusiastic with the idea, especially from the son of the man who's idea nearly destroyed the entire city."
This was something Yusei had considered but if he were going to let that stand in his way, he'd never succeed in anything. Understanding that he was making his student doubt himself, Philippe turned to go.
"Just remember this Yusei. There are risks with everything you try to do and usually, I'd say go for it. But this matter is something different entirely and needs some serious thought. I hope whatever your calculations come to, it's worth taking the risk. The fate of New Domino City is in your hands."
"How was your first day Miss?" Akiza's chauffer was concerned; she hadn't said a word, since she got into the car.
"It was fine, thank you. It went surprisingly well considering I've not been in school for a while."
"I'm pleased for you Miss." Akiza smiled. "Anything else happen today Miss?" Akiza looked at him.
"No, why would you ask that?"
"I just wondered if you'd made any friends that's all." Akiza snorted.
"Well considering my father, Maximilian and Rei combined have probably paid off everyone to not be friends with me, we can safely say the answer to that question will be a resounding no." The chauffer chuckled at her sarcasm.
"You will find Miss, that eventually that will not work. People will see you for who you really are and then the money won't matter." Akiza turned to look out her window as they passed through the gates of the family estate.
"We will see…" What am I going to do Yusei? I can't keep this up much longer!
Jack was sitting on the sofa in the workshop when Yusei drove his runner through the garage doors. Glancing up from the pile of paper that he was sifting through, his eyes narrowed.
"Well?" Yusei sighed.
"Well, what?" Jack raised one of his eyebrows, which signified he was irritated.
"Don't do that! You know what I'm getting at." Yusei raised his eyebrow.
"If you mean Akiza Izinski, then I did happen to see her after my class ended."
"And…?"
"And nothing. We chatted for a little bit and I said how I was… which I lied about."
"Why?" Yusei was exasperated.
"What do you mean why? Because I didn't want her to know that I'm hurt and a little bit pissed off!"
"What was her explanation?" Jack pushed for an answer.
"I didn't ask and she didn't offer anything. However, we already know the answer to that – she didn't know!"
"I still think she owes you an explanation, that girl is too pretty for her own good."
"What do you mean?" Jack rolled his eyes.
"It seems to me that she uses her looks to get her what she wants." Now Yusei was really annoyed.
"Now just hold on a minute – she's not like that."
"How do you know?" His friend paused and gathered his thoughts. Carefully, Yusei replied.
"Because the woman I met at the ball was so down to earth it was scary. You could never believe that she was the Senator's daughter if you hadn't known. I found her to be very well-rounded." Jack was confused.
"She's not curvy…"
"Not in that sense Jack."
"Well anyway…" Jack's attention turned back to his pile of paper, that he was marking for his dueling class.
"I don't want to talk about it anymore." Yusei turned to go. "Besides, she may come round and visit us sooner or later." Jack's head jerked up and the muscle in his jaw twitched.
"What? How did that happen?"
"I invited her…goodnight Jack." Yusei walked upstairs to his room, leaving Jack spluttering behind him.
Yusei lay there on his bed, staring at the ceiling. He sighed and turned over onto his side and a lock of his hair fell onto his face. He tried not to think about today. He tried not to picture those big brown eyes with flecks of gold in them, nor that luscious auburn chestnut red hair that longed to be touched. Tossing and turning until he ended back to his original position, he began to realize that he wasn't going to get to sleep at this rate. He got up and walked over to the window. Looking out over the city, Yusei remembered why he loved the place so much. Glancing down at his desk, he came across the birthday present Leo and Luna got him a while back that he hadn't used. This was a gift that had puzzled him as it was something he hadn't done before. However, he'd been pleased and touched by the thought and had thanked them. It was an art kit, including all the materials he would need to create a masterpiece. It was strange, he had the sudden urge to paint and opening a sketchbook, he proceeded to draw the outline of his first piece of art.
In the next room, Jack could hear Yusei tossing and turning and just feeling restless in general. It was clear to Jack what Yusei was thinking of…or who.
"Why doesn't he just admit it to himself – it's obvious that he has some feelings for her. I don't want her to get married to some posh, fucked up twat, especially if that's not what Akiza Izinski wants…" In his head, Jack came up with a plan.
No one was more surprised than Akiza when she saw who was there waiting for her when she came out of her lecture on Thursday. Jack couldn't believe it either. "What are you doing here?" But he knew that he needed to know how she felt before Jack would let Akiza into their group and into Yusei's heart completely.
Akiza, herself was feeling a little awkward and surprised that he was there and didn't really know how to deal with it. Walking towards her, Jack could see her nerves radiating from her in waves. "Interesting, I must make her anxious."
"How can I help you Mr. Atlas?" At her formal tone, Jack raised his eyebrows.
"I think we need to have a talk…don't you?" A couple of Jack's fans stopped her from answering immediately but she had a feeling that this talk was going to involve a lot of questions. From him.
When Jack had finished with the couple of love-struck fans (Akiza had no idea why), he turned his attention back to her.
"Well?" Akiza rubbed her forehead, a sign that she was getting a headache.
"Do I have a choice?" Jack considered this.
"No, not really."
"Then there was no point in asking me, was there?" Jack shrugged his shoulders in a way that plainly said he didn't care. Sarcastically, he indicated that she should lead the way to somewhere where they could talk. Shaking her head and moving past him, she wondered why he was here and what she was in for. What she didn't realize was that Jack didn't know what he was going to say when they were in private, it simply hadn't occurred to him.
When they reached the secluded area that Akiza normally studied in and were seated, Akiza spoke.
"What can I do for you Mr. Atlas?" Straight to the point, he noticed but he didn't see the point in dragging it out any more than necessary.
"I need to know a few things, that's all."
"Okay, I take it this is about Yusei" Jack's eyes narrowed but he continued.
"Partly, but I want to see what it is about you that has him so worked up."
"What makes you think he's worked up about me?" She asked quietly.
"Oh I don't know, maybe the fact that he's not sleeping or eating? What kind of behavior does that sound like to you?" Akiza looked worried but she held her ground.
"Well why is that related to me? We've spoken maybe twice now?"
"It's because of his behavior that I know you're the problem! In case you haven't noticed, Yusei has little or no experience with women and the fact that he's in a tizzy after meeting you, is something that can't be ignored!"
By now, Akiza had had enough. And she told Jack so.
"Have you ever considered that it may be his project that's getting him all stressed and worked up? I mean, it's not every day that you try to complete the work your father left behind. The work that almost destroyed the city! Perhaps, Mr. Atlas, before you start accusing other people, you should talk to your friends first and I suggest that until you do, please leave me alone to worry about my own life and not drag me into someone else's, no matter how much that person means to me!" With that, Akiza got up and left Jack thinking and wondering to himself, while a tear escaped Akiza's brown eyes as she walked away, unknown to Jack.
Once again, Akiza was in her bedroom when she got home. It seemed to her that that was where she spent most of her time when she wasn't at university. Looking through her notes, she was unaware that there had been a knock on her door.
"Um…come in."
"Hi honey, I just saw that you're home and I fancied a chat." It was Setsuko and Akiza could tell that she desperately wanted to speak to her daughter.
"Sure, that's fine." Akiza had to smile. Things at home hadn't been great but with the wedding coming up in the next three months, it was almost as if that was the major thing her parents and the rest of society were looking forward to. Except her.
"So…how are you? I rarely see you these days." It took Akiza a little while to think of a response that wasn't sarcastic.
"I'm fine, just busy…"
"With the wedding? I know darling."
"I was going to say studying but yes Mother, with the wedding as well." Setsuko had the grace to look a little bit guilty.
"Sweetheart, I understand that you have some doubts about this marriage and it's hard for you, I know. I, well, we hoped that you would eventually come to love Rei, just as I had come to love your father. It does take time though."
"Mother, I just don't see why I should marry without love – with the hope that love will develop instead of just marrying for love, when it happens."
"Because, sometimes it's best that we do it the other way round. Who can tell what their life would be like and at least this way you both can work your way up to love. It can be less painful like this…" Something in her mother's voice made Akiza take a note. There seemed to be a little part of her mother's heart that was breaking and this was something Akiza hadn't seen before. It was completely new.
"Mother, I'm guessing you've been through this?" Quietly, Akiza voiced her thoughts. Setsuko turned to look at her beautiful daughter and nodded.
"A long time ago, but the reason I've told you this is because I wanted you to see what, if given the time, your marriage could be like. The relationship will develop and can be very, very rewarding." Setsuko reached out and stroked her daughter's silky smooth cheek.
"Mother, if you've experienced this, then you know how I feel. Please, let me explain to father – I can't do this!"
"The whole point of me telling you this was to make you understand why we want you to get married in this way. Do this and you protect the family – as it should be one of your main priorities right now." Akiza couldn't believe it.
"So, this is all to do with protecting the family name and nothing to do with my happiness? Figures."
"Sweetheart, please understand…"
"I do, perfectly. Please leave…" Setsuko sighed, got up and left quietly. Leaving Akiza to her thoughts and the disbelief that her parents only wish to use her for the sake of preserving the family name.
Zero and Sara were sitting down to breakfast, when Zero noted that his wife was looking a little sad.
"Honey, what's wrong?" She sighed.
"I was just thinking about Miss Izinski – how terrible that announcement was for her."
"She could be really happy. We don't know what's going on."
"Zero, you didn't see her at the ball, there was a part of her dying to get out." He acknowledged this.
"Hideo and Setsuko can be a bit stifling but I don't believe that they would put their feelings and opinions above their daughter's happiness…do you?" Grasping her husband's hand, Sara had a thought.
"Why don't we invite her for lunch – maybe we should invite the family too?" Zero nodded.
"Yes, they may be afraid of what she would say to us." At this point Leo and Luna came into the breakfast room, wearing their school uniforms.
"Leo! Please straighten your uniform!" Leo's uniform was, as ever, messy with his sleeves rolled up and his shirt hanging out. Luna's uniform, in comparison, was neat and tidy and she'd decorated her hair by placing a delicate butterfly clip on the side of her head.
"Morning mother, father." Kissing them on the cheek, Luna sat down and Leo was already stuffing his face.
"Darling, slow down." Leo chewed slowly.
"I have a big day today."
"What do you have?"
"English, Science, Politics and double Duelling class!" Luna snorted.
"Why do you bother duelling? You always lose." Zero picked up on Luna's bad mood.
"What's wrong sweetheart?"
"I have so much to do today – classes and I have to go to G&T."
"What's G&T?" Leo grinned and rolled his eyes.
"Stands for, Gifted and Talented. They're trying out the new program from America." Teasing his sister, Leo pulled a face at Luna.
"Gifted and Talented?" Luna smiled.
"Don't sound so surprised Mother." Zero and Sara laughed.
"We're not it just seems bizarre that's all. What a strange class to have." Leo finished chewing another mouthful of toast and then spoke up.
"So, who's coming for lunch tomorrow?" Zero and Sara glanced at each other. "You both speak really loudly sometimes." Luna nodded in agreement.
"Mr. Izinski and his family. You're off from school tomorrow, so you'll be here too."
"Umm yeah…it's the weekend."
"So I understand. But please do not let tomorrow be the day that you two argue over something petty." Sara said to her children.
"Yes, mother." Glancing at each other, the twins smiled and left to go to school.
"Sara, has it ever occurred to you that perhaps you underestimate them a little?"
"Not at all, I just want the Senator to see that we're not to be messed with; because that's how I feel since we agreed that his announcement could be made at our function. Do you understand?" Patting her hand, Zero agreed.
"I'm pretty sure the whole of New Domino knows we're not to be messed with!"
It seemed that whatever she said, her parents simply did not listen to her. This did not come as much of a surprise.
"Father! Did you hear what I said?"
"Umm…did you say something Akiza?" Rei snorted. Akiza turned blazing eyes at him, which he chose to ignore.
"I said, I got full marks in my medical exam test today." Her father actually looked up at that.
"I see…and?" His daughter was slightly lost for words.
"I thought you'd be pleased." At this Rei interrupted.
"Why would it matter? It's not as if you will be working when we're married anyway."
"I beg your pardon?" Akiza was shocked. Rei continued.
"Well, you'd have other duties."
"Like. What?" Akiza said through gritted teeth.
"Bringing up our children, and running the household. Women things like that." Maximilian laughed at Akiza's face.
"Did you really expect anything to come of this thing you're doing? Oh dear."
"Well, as far as I'm concerned, I'm finishing my degree whatever you say!"
"We'll see about that." Rei's cold eyes bore into Akiza's and there was something not quite right here. Rather than address it she sighed and bade everybody goodnight. Walking up the marble staircase, she contemplated leaving and never coming back – but in her heart she knew that wasn't convenient at the moment. "But it will be soon." She thought.
Jack was still playing his encounter with Akiza in his head. Unable to sleep he was restless and shifting about. Giving up, he padded downstairs and rang his girlfriend.
"Jack? What's up? Why are you calling so late?" Carly's voice was sleepy but she was the inquisitive reporter he had grown to love.
"I need some advice and naturally, I thought of you." Inside her flat, Carly smiled to herself. Whatever anyone said, she loved her grumpy, brooding and slightly moody boyfriend dearly.
"ok….what's the problem?"
"I went to speak to Miss Izinski today." Jack braced himself.
"You did what?!"
"I know I know…"
"Does Yusei know about this?"
"No! I haven't said anything yet."
"What did she say? Hang on… you had a conversation?"
"Well…it was more me talking and then me kind of yelling at her."
"JACK!"
"Well I was worried about my friend and she just stood there, uncaring." Carly sighed.
"I think you need to talk to Yusei."
"I know but…I'm not sure that I want to know what's going on."
"If that were the case, you wouldn't have gone to see Miss Izinski."
"I guess…"
"Just try it, see what happens and besides, you'll never know until you ask. Goodnight Jack."
"Night baby, sorry to wake you."
That morning. A clear, beautiful Saturday morning. Akiza was prepared to do a lot of acting.
"Try and give the impression you're happy dear."
"Yes Mother, we can't have anyone suspecting otherwise can we?"
"That's right dear, but try not to be so melodramatic about it." Akiza accepted the hand her chauffer offered her and got into the car. Rei came out of the house and moved to join her on the other side of the car.
"Mother, why is Rei here?" Setsuko looked at her daughter from her seat in the car.
"Oh, we thought that it would be nice to have him come too – keep you company and give you some support."
"Hello darling, ready?" Rei's cold eyes met Akiza's and she shivered.
"Ready…" After Hideo got into the car, they began their journey to the Tanaka's for lunch.
Sara and Zero were waiting in the sitting room, looking out the window.
"They're coming aren't they?" Zero sighed and put his strong arm around his wife's waist.
"Yes, they're coming." As he spoke a car drew up and out came the Senator, his wife, their daughter and…someone else.
"Who is that?" Zero was confused.
"I believe that is Miss Akiza's fiancée."
"And he's here because why…?"
"No doubt we will find out." Walking to their front door, they were pleased to see that Leo and Luna were waiting in the entrance hall, in their best clothes. Indicating that Jefferies should open the doors, the Tanaka family were prepared to put on a cheerful and bright show. Little did they know, Akiza was thinking the same thing.
"Good afternoon, Zero, Sara." With a second thought, he turned to the twins. "Children."
"Hideo! Setsuko, so nice to see you." Sara was greeting their guests whilst Zero looked at the Senator's daughter and their extra guest.
"Miss Izinski how wonderful to see you." Akiza smiled.
"Thank you for having us…" Rei coughed loudly. Sighing, Akiza turned to face him. "This is Rei Deveraux, my…my fiancée." Rei pushed Akiza slightly to one side and held out his hand whilst smiling his most charming smile.
"It's a pleasure to meet you." Zero looked at his hand and after a small pause, shook it, but Akiza noticed his smile was a little tight and didn't reach his eyes. Rei noticed it too, but he didn't say anything.
"Come on in, we're in the summer room." Zero indicated that they should head in and he drew Akiza into an easy conversation. "I understand you've enrolled at the university. What course are you doing?"
"Medicine. I really enjoy it – it's challenging and really tests me but then when I'm right, there's so much satisfaction." Zero smiled as they walked into the summer room. A room full of light due to the fact that full length windows made up one side of the room, bathing it in a golden light. Akiza's parents were already sat down at the table with Sara with her children.
"Miss Izinski, I'm so pleased that you're here – it's been a while since I last saw you at the ball."
"Please call me Akiza." She smiled warmly. They were all seated and the maid brought in a large pot of tea. Strangely, this made her miss her friend Cordi even more. Sara could sense that something was wrong. Making a mental note to talk to her in private later.
"Sara, Akiza was just telling me about how she loves her degree and the fact that it challenges her…sound like someone we know?" Sara laughed.
"You're so much like Yusei, Akiza…very much so." Akiza looked startled.
"Yusei? You know Yusei? Oh, of course you do – he was at the ball…" She drifted off and blushed, remembering their time together in the Tanaka's gardens. Hideo frowned.
"What I want to know is how you know Mr Fudo Akiza?" There was a slight pause before Akiza's gaze averted her father's. Then, realizing she was sick of being made to feel like she was always in the wrong, she spoke up.
"Mr Fudo was introduced to me, father." Hideo and Rei's eyes flashed with pure contempt.
"Who?" Zero and Sara glanced at each other.
"I did." Sara was not ashamed of this and refused to be glared down by Hideo.
"Why? Why would you introduce my daughter to a Satellite?" Rei interrupted.
"A Satellite? You speak to people from the Satellite?" Zero frowned.
"You think there's something wrong with that?" Rei didn't blink and Hideo leapt to his future son-in-law's defense. Setsuko casually continued sipping her tea but kept a wary eye on her daughter and her husband.
"Oh come now Zero, you know what we're getting at." Hideo had since risen up from his seat and was now leaning onto the table – his hands clenched into fists. Sara and Akiza shared a look. Sensing something was going to happen, Leo and Luna quietly left the table.
"Hideo, Sara and I have no qualms about mixing with Satellites, New Domino is now a city joined together with the Satellite and it's here to stay. You may want to get used to that." Akiza could see that her father was not happy about that comment but she felt a sense of pride that the Tanaka's were sticking to their guns about this issue – the fact that she wasn't alone in her beliefs. Setsuko intervened.
"Honey, let's just finish afternoon tea and then we can leave Sara and Zero in peace." She placed her hand on his arm and he slowly sat back into his chair. Setsuko continued. "Hurry up Akiza darling – your father has work he needs to do." Akiza's shoulders slumped as if a ton of bricks was just placed on them. This didn't go unnoticed by Rei and Sara. Rei got there first.
" Dear, try to sit up straight – how will our children turn out if they have you as an example?" At the blatant insult, Zero and Sara expected Hideo or Setsuko to say something. Nothing. Akiza moved and sat up in a more correct position. Sara had an idea.
"Oh Setsuko, I was wondering if would be able to borrow Akiza this afternoon?" Akiza's mother eyed Sara over the rim of her teacup and after placing the teacup delicately back on its saucer, she turned to her frowning husband.
"What for?" Sara rolled her eyes in a rather unladylike fashion.
"I just need her opinion on something – that's all. I have a few ideas for her wedding decorations and I wanted her opinion." At the mention of the wedding, Hideo and Setsuko's eyes softened. Rei shrugged when they turned to look at him.
"I don't see why not. The chauffer will come pick you up when you're ready."
"Thank you." With afternoon tea finished and the children having disappeared discreetly, Hideo, Setsuko and Rei politely thanked Zero and Sara and left.
"Akiza, why don't we retire to the drawing room? It's much nicer in there…and very private." Sara got up and placed her napkin on her tea plate and motioned to Akiza to follow her.
Following Sara through her house, she had time to look at the house itself. When she was at the ball, it was very different and she was otherwise preoccupied at the time. The hallway was big and long. It had many photographs of the entire family – especially the children. Without realizing it, Akiza gave out a small sigh of longing. Sara turned at the sound and her heart ached at the sight of Akiza looking so sad, as if something was truly missing from her life.
"We love taking pictures of our children. Before we know it, they will be grown up as they simply do so very quickly. As you can see, they are personal photographs – not shots for the papers or magazines." Picking up one of Leo and Luna laughing with each other, Akiza gazed at the image and smiled.
"They're so lucky to have one another. I used to long for a brother or a sister, but now I'm glad I'm an only child." Sara looked thoughtful.
"Oh? And why is that?" Akiza placed the photograph down and said.
"Even though my life is very privileged, I would not wish it upon anyone. There are rules, expectations as well as many restrictions and I can't help but think that a little child could not cope with having to deal with that as well as having two parents who simply do not care." Sara put her hand on Akiza's shoulder and wondered what she could do to help the young woman standing before her. Taking her by then hand, she opened the heavy oak door to the drawing room and inside they went.
The room reminded Akiza of her own sitting room at home, the window seat was just like hers. The windows were large and let a lot of light in, a bit like the ones in the summer room.
"It's a bit like yours isn't it?" Sara grinned.
"Yes, it is but it's much more welcoming and less prison-like." Sara laughed. Sitting down, Akiza joined her and feeling completely relaxed, she crossed one leg underneath her.
"What was it about the wedding you wanted to discuss with me?" Sara raised one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows.
"Actually nothing. Well at least nothing directly related to the wedding. What I wanted was to ask you if you really are okay." Akiza tried to laugh it off.
"Oh! Yes, of course, I'm absolutely fine…" She trailed off when Sara gave her a look. "Well, you clearly know how I'm feeling."
"Akiza, there's nothing wrong with feeling the way you do – it's normal with arranged marriages – but there is something wrong. Can I help at all?" Sara looked so concerned, Akiza felt her resolve about to break. She had spent so many years not letting anyone see her cry or showing any weaknesses, that the weight of that alone was enough to tip her over the edge.
"Everything!" With that, she burst into floods of tears. Sara showed no hesitation and gathered the young, confused and upset woman, into her comforting arms.
"It's okay Akiza, it's okay, it's okay." As if she was a child, Sara rocked her until her sobs had subsided. Plucking a tissue from the box on the table, Akiza wiped her eyes.
"I'm so sorry Mrs Tanaka, I very rarely show weakness." Sara's eyes flashed.
"Crying is not a weakness Akiza! Neither is showing emotion. By the way call me Sara please."
"My father would disagree with you on that matter. Besides, I haven't cried since I was six years old – I vowed not to."
"Six years old?" Akiza nodded.
"It was after an incident that involved my father…" Sara didn't ask for any details. She understood perfectly.
"Well, now that we've established something is definitely wrong, perhaps you could now be a little more specific?" Akiza sighed.
"It's the fact that I have to marry somebody I don't love. Rei is rude, arrogant, snobbish and…creepy. I haven't warmed to him since the day we officially met, he doesn't even know me or care." Sara nodded.
"I must admit, I haven't really taken to him and after the way he spoke to you today, it is clear to me that there is a lot that needs to be done."
"In my parents eyes, he can do no wrong - at all and that bothers me a lot." A thought struck Sara suddenly.
"Sometimes, everything is much harder when you have someone else in mind…can you relate to that Akiza?" Akiza was startled.
"Wha…what makes you say that?" Sara smiled.
"A few things actually." Akiza raised an eyebrow.
"Like what?" Oh God, have I given myself away?
"Well, you seem torn – almost as if you wanted something else. I'm beginning to see that you don't just do what your parents tell you to –even though it's been drummed into you your whole life. I've also noticed that you have changed since we last met at the ball and coincidentally, this is where you met Mr. Yusei Fudo." Akiza was tempted to deny this but looking into those all-knowing eyes, she couldn't.
"I have tried to think this through, however I just can't seem to sort it out. He's like no one I've ever met and when you introduced us – we had the most magical evening. Then it was over." Sara smiled.
"I think that had you not met Yusei that evening, you wouldn't be as against this arranged marriage as you are now. Am I right?" Akiza nodded.
"This announcement changed everything." She looked down at her hands. "When everything changed I was completely devastated." Looking up at Sara she could see her eyes were full of understanding. "I know we hadn't known each other long but there was something there!"
"I can't deny that before I introduced you, I had thought that you were both perfectly suited, however, I get the feeling that there is something else bothering you." Akiza sighed.
"It's not that I care a lot about what anyone else thinks but I can feel that other people will no be happy with it if we got together."
"People can be very judgmental but as long as you're happy the nothing else matters." Sara grasped Akiza's hand. "If you really like him that much, then you need to let him know. I have a feeling he really likes you too, I have not seen anyone's face fall that much as his did when Mr Deveraux put that monstrosity on your finger." Sara shuddered as she looked at the ring, she too thought it was ugly.
"I think I hurt him pretty badly – what if he doesn't forgive me?" Akiza bowed her head.
"Yusei is a pretty forgiving person as well as being understanding. He will know that you are being forced into this."
"I figured that but it's going to be a big risk." Sighing, Sara lifted Akiza's head so she could look into her worried brown eyes.
"Sweetheart, life is about taking risks and I think you know that already. You are a strong woman and sometimes you have to fight for what you want – you know that better than anyone, as does Yusei. You can start by admitting just how strong your feelings really are – at least to yourself." Akiza nodded. There was a knock on the door. The maid opened it and came in with a tray.
"Excuse me ma'am, Mr Tanaka thought you may like this. Putting the tray down, there was a pot of tea and a couple of slices of cake. Sara's eyes warmed at the gesture.
"Thank you Maisie." The maid spoke before she left.
"Oh and Master Leo and Miss Luna have a guest you may want to meet Ma'am." Bowing her head, she left the room.
"Were you expecting anybody else?" Sara looked at Akiza and shook her head.
"No, we weren't…how very strange." Getting up to check this out, Sara indicated that Akiza should help herself to a cup of tea and she shut the door on her way out.
That was really strange…I suppose it could be a school friend. Akiza had time to think about what Sara has said whilst she dealt with their unexpected guest. Akiza knew how pathetic it sounded. Even though she may say that other people's opinions didn't matter, they did in a way and she hated herself for feeling that way. Having spent so long trying to be the perfect daughter, she understood now that her father would never accept her, even if she married Rei – he was the son he'd always wanted.
"I need to get out and do my own thing – I can't do this anymore! If I stay, I'll end up being miserable and then I'll shatter into tiny pieces and then who knows what my parents would do." Saying this out loud to herself, Akiza knew were true and it was high time she started doing things for herself.
"You've definitely come a long way since I saw you last Akiza." At the sound of the voice, Akiza was stunned into silence. Turning round to face the door she saw somebody who not moments ago had been the topic of conversation she and Sara had been having.
Yusei Fudo was standing in the doorway leaning against the doorframe. Casually dressed in his usual duel runner gear- he looked very different to what he'd been like at the ball and when they'd met at the university. His hair was as spiky as ever and those eyes…those stunning blue eyes, ones that she could stare into forever, were sparkling at her.
"Have you suddenly lost the power of speech?" Yusei grinned at Akiza. Shaking her head, Akiza laughed.
"I'm guessing you were the twin's guest that arrived moments ago?"
"Yeah, I've never seen Sara so worried when she came out to see who was here. The relief on her face when she saw me was so clear." Akiza smiled at that.
"Well, that's understandable. Her children are the most precious things she has – I would be the same if I had children." Yusei's eyes narrowed at a thought.
"With Rei Deveraux?" Her smile disappeared.
"It makes no difference – I'm not marrying him.
"I thought you'd say that. I heard what you said earlier and you're right, it's high time you started living your own life." Yusei moved to sit next to her. Taking her hands in his, his thumbs gently rubbed over her knuckles.
"Yusei I need to talk to you…"
"Haven't we been doing that already?"
"Shh! Just listen to me, it's important." Yusei looked bemused. Akiza took a deep breath. "I'm sorry…sorry or everything and I'm sorry for hurting you."
"It's ok, I understand why you did it and besides we had only just met. I understand that you feel obligated to do as your parents ask but it's wrong of them to force you into this."
"You asked me if I was happy. I'm not, my whole life has been about living the life my parents want me to and Rei is part of that. Another factor controlling my life."
"I could tell you weren't happy but I didn't want to pressure you. I know what we have is very new and still in it's early days but I can't stop thinking about our time together. My friends have realized that something is wrong – I don't sleep, eat and even working is difficult. All because I'm worried about you!"
"I can't imagine how you must have felt, especially after we had spent a magical evening together."
"You thought it was magical?"
"I thought it was unbelievably magical. The first time I had done something for myself and felt completely free."
"It's strange that after only one night, I feel like I've known you forever and as much of a cliché that is – I think it's true." Akiza smiled.
"I'm the same actually. Sara mentioned that she thought we were perfectly suited, which is strange too." Yusei laughed.
"That sounds like her, she kept trying to get me to meet other girls at the ball – I cam alone you see. Then she introduced us and that was it." Akiza smiled her beautiful smile and Yusei's heart pounded so hard, he thought it would escape his chest.
"Everything was perfect until the announcement, this ring is more appropriate than I thought." Yusei looked at it and winced.
"He couldn't have a picked a worse design – rope effect? Not nice."
"Yes, I know. I feel that every time I look at it, I'm staring at a noose. That's how I feel my life is, getting worse and worse until he completely destroys me."
"What about your parents?" Akiza shrugged.
"They don't care. I've already told them and they've practically said I have no choice in the matter. Even though my mother said she's been through what I am now. Nothing's changed." Her eyes filled with tears and Yusei couldn't bear to see her cry.
"I never thought I'd see the day when the woman I loved would turn out to be the Senator's daughter!"
"I know, shocker…" Akiza smiled through her tears and then realizing what he'd said, her eyes grew wide. "I'm sorry, did you just say you loved me?" She squeaked. Yusei laughed and kissed the tip of her nose.
"Well, at least on the road that leads to love but yeah I'm pretty sure I did and do."
"Well I definitely have strong feelings for you and my heart's racing so I would say that that is a good sign." Cupping her cheek in his palm, he wiped away a tear that had rolled down her face. Meeting those beautiful eyes with his, Yusei simply couldn't resist anymore. Their second kiss was everything Akiza dreamed it would be soft and yet firm, it made their hearts race and their breathing became heavy until she was sure she would explode with sheer happiness. Pulling apart, Yusei rested his forehead against Akiza's until they'd got their breath back. Running her finger over his criminal marker, she traced its line and looked thoughtful.
"What am I going to do Yusei? I don't want to marry Rei and if I did I would fear how he would control me – with an iron fist no doubt." Yusei's hands grasped hers tightly.
"Trust me – that is not going to happen." Akiza's eyes expressed concern and she was worried.
"My parents will never accept my decision and there's no telling what they'd do." With her eyes filling up again, Yusei pulled her into his arms to comfort her. Sitting there on the sofa, the two of them were comfortable to sit in silence.
"You don't have to worry Akiza, there are plenty of us who will help you." A knock on the door came and in walked Sara.
"How are you both getting on?" Noticing Akiza's tear stained face, Sara looked worried. "We're okay Sara, Akiza will be fine but I'm sure you will agree with me when I say that I don't think she should go ahead with the wedding."
"Absolutely. You would be making a big mistake if you did." Akiza nodded.
"At least I can continue studying." Sara and Yusei nodded in agreement.
"So, this is where everybody is!" Zero walked in with the twins.
"Are you ok Akiza?" Luna was curious.
"I'm fine thank you Luna – just a bit tired. I think I'd better be going home now anyway." Zero smiled.
"I thought you might say that, so I called your chauffer and he should be here shortly."
"Thank you everybody for being so kind. I think with the right support I can decide that being made to marry someone I don't love is not how I want to live my life. If my parents can't see that, then I will have to do something about it."
"We'll be here to support you if you need anything." Zero said warmly.
"Thank you Mr Tanaka."
"Zero, Akiza." She smiled.
"Zero." Akiza stood up. "I think I hear a car coming up your driveway. I have a lot to think about when I get home. Thank you so much for your hospitality and advice. I am aware that I have cried a lot and I would like to thank you for being so understanding. Especially you, Yusei." Yusei turned to look at her and he grinned.
"Come see me at university, we can go through your plan of action." Akiza nodded. They all walked out to the car to see her off.
"We'll see you soon dear, come by if you need anything at all." Sara hugged her goodbye as did Zero and the children. Her chauffer opened the car door for her and she turned to smile at everybody before getting into the car. She waved as the car moved away from the house. As she drove away, Yusei noted something.
"It's going to be hard for her but we'll be here." Sara nodded.
"Yes, she's going to need all the help she can get. We'll be here to support her."
"I'm sorry but anybody who makes their daughter marry someone they don't want to, is not somebody I wish to be seen with. Hideo Izinski has a lot to answer for by making his daughter marry that awful Rei Deveraux. He is a powerful man and this is not going to be easy. Akiza will need a lot of strength to go through with this. A lot." Zero, Sara, Leo and Luna stood next to Yusei and Sara placed a comforting hand on his arm.
"She will go through with this – if not to sort things out with you but for herself at least. She needs to know who she is without the Izinski name. She's strong and she'll get through it. Zero and Yusei nodded.
"Yes, we better be prepared. Soon enough we are going to have a huge fight on our hands with a very powerful and intelligent enemy. Get ready." With that, the Tanaka's and Yusei walked back into the mansion, understanding that everything was about to change.
And that, was chapter 5!
I'm sorry it's so long but, as I'm sure you have all gathered - I put a lot of detail into my chapters.
I also apologise for it being ages since I last posted but I have had other things to do, although now most of them are sorted.
Please give me some reviews - I would love to hear what you think.
Love and kisses,
Teeny x