Helloooooooooooooooooooooooo ladies!
You probably thought that I wasn't going to continue this story...BUT! I'm here, revived, like a phoneix from its ashes (so dramatic, I know...¬¬)
I was really busy, my studies didn't go that well, my money went down, my work went up and life goes on...but I still want to continue this fic if there's at least one person that enjoys it. I thank to all of the people that left me a review or a PM and those who read and don't leave anything behind, thank you too.
I specially thank Riley cullen, nyrac and Jenny Lie, reading your reviews girls, make my head go spinning!
Well, no more chatting, this is the newest chapter of the story, just so you know, there's no much action in this chapter as well because is neccesary for the development coming on...
Thank you for your support!
It was a new day, but not a very nice one. Tsukushi's had a great time the previous day talking about everything with Yuuki and laughing at the antics of Akira, but truth was, that her face hurt, and even though she got home to take the pills that had been prescribed, sleeping had been a torture, because every time she rose up worried that she might be lying over her injury. Now the sun was out and she was stressed and sored because of the previous night. It was bad enough that she had to wash, treat the wound with cream and put new gauze. Worse, she discovered that there was nothing to eat now. Much worse: leaving her house and found a car of the year, late model, totally luxurious with Shigeru inside.
—¡Tsukushi-chaaaaan!
—Shigeru! What are you doing here? How...?
—Oh, yesterday I called Mimasaka-san and he said you were already here and, obviously, I came to get you to take you to school!
—Ah ... well, you shouldn't have bothered, really...
—Get in before we're late!
The truth was that Tsukushi didn't want to see her yet, she had not been able to prepare exactly what she was going to tell her about Tsukasa and frankly, she didn't intend to think about it yet.
—But what happened to your face!
—It's ... a long history, truth is...
—But are youok?You have the face marked!
—Yes, I saw a doctor...
—I imagine it must have been the best of New York right?
—Ehhh...
—And tell me, what did the artichoke head said when he saw you?
—Mmm ... well...
—Don't tell me, I'm sure he jumped up and down all excited to see you there...
—Actually...
—Ah, but it's true that his mother was there, right?
—Yes, she was...
—Then it must've been difficult, but the good thing is that you two are together!
—Shigeru, the truth is that...
—Oh, here we are!
—So fast?
—Of course, I even think my driver was delayed a bit. I regret not having more time to talk to you Tsukushi, but I'll find you later to grab something to eat, all right? I'll call Yuuki too!
And while saying each of these things, she got her outthe car, put her backpack, gave her a big hug, got in again and went away, leaving no option to tell the harsh reality. She stood watching as the car moved away and murmured to herself:
—Forgive me, Shigeru ... Doumyouji and I ... no longer...
—But look who is back!
Tsukushi turned to see the person from whom she was sure was the voice, and she was right, it was Yuriko with her inseparable friends Erika and Minako
—We thought you had already withdrawn from school, bimboni...
—Yes, we have been much better without you, it would be better if you left forever
—But what's on your face? Hahahahaha ... you sure got what you deserve
—Silence!—The three girls were quiet at once to see the gaze full of rage of Tsukushi—I haven't had a good morning so I really have no intention of listening to your crap!Make way!
And almost pushing them, sheheaded toward the school entrance. It had been a week since she had left and had to catch up with many things. As she thought about what to do to retrieve notes and papers, she heard an engine in the distance, approaching at full speed. The car was parked right in front of her followed by another equally or more luxurious. Tsukushi wondered who would be the person to parkin such an unconscious manner when she was obviouslycrossing. A window came down and she saw that none other than Tsukasa, her eyes opened in surprise.
—Get in.
—What?
—Are you deaf? I'm telling you to get in.
—Doumyouji, I'm sorry but I can't, I don't want to be late to class and I've missed quite of them, besides-hey! What are you doing!Let me go!—While she had been talking to two men who were surely Tsukasa's security guards had taken her from each arm and raisedher to take her to another car.
—I didn'task you, I told you get in. Look for follow us—he finished saying his men closing up the window.
—Doumyouji! Doumyouji! Make these men let me go! Who do you think you are!Please! Can't we do this after school? Doumyouji! Ah!—a pang in her face forced her to remain silent; she had cried out loud too much and had caused the wound to hurt. She struggled all he could, but was unable to free herself and was dragged into an elegant vehicle.
Throughout the journey no one spoke, it seemed incredible to Tsukushi that Tsukasa were at school after saying he had retired, and was still concerned about her classes as she could not afford to lose more, few were those who wanted her in that school and she couldn't fail, eitherherself or her parents.
After half an hour by his watch, Tsukushi began to grow desperate, the trip didn't appear to be coming to an end soon and even though she asked the security that was with her in the car, the two men looked like a pair of robots that were not willing to answer her. All her life, Tsukushi had been a wild herb, a woman who didn't bend at all, living the everydayunder the moral rules which she had formed. Yes, she was strong. But after a broken heart, no one can be asked to remain the same, and although all she wanted then was to give good beating to Tsukasa, she knew she couldn't, and verbally fighting with him would frankly leave her exhausted and wouldn't lead anywhere; in some way or another, he would see how to get away with it, as he had done so often before.
I'm tired of this, over and over again the same, the same ... I don't care anymore.
She felt the car slowing down the speed; the two men began to move, but she didn't give any signs to have noticed any of these events. The door on the right opened and a driver bowed waiting for her to get out, but she didn't.
—But what is she waiting for? —she heard Tsukasa's voice approaching—Come on, get out—Tsukushi got out and stood beside him. Tsukasa sighed and walked towards what looked like a small house, but he felt that nobody was following him and it was true, Tsukushi had not moved an inch. He was beginning to despair—Come here! —Then she began to follow him, and it was like that, order after order, until they came inside the restaurant and he had to sit her in front of a large table laid out with a great breakfast. There was everything: coffee, tea, milk, butter croissants, bread, pancakes, honey, fresh fruit of all kinds, mineral water, cream cheese, in short, everything one could imagine for a western breakfast. Tsukushi, however, noted only two things when she entered: first, the wall clock told her that two hours had passed since she had been kidnapped her at school and, second, there was absolutely no one other than the local staff.
Tsukasa and she were being served by waiters who put in front of them whatever they ordered, in Tsukushi's case, the waiter provided her with what Tsukasa said as she said nothing at all.
—Eat, for the noise your stomach's making I know you haven't eat anything—Tsukushi just kept her face turned slightly to the side with a lost gaze without touching the food. That was the straw that broke the camel for Tsukasa—Can you tell me what the hell is wrong with you!I bring you here to eat, so we can talk to the comfort of knowing that we are not going to be interrupted and you look like you were a doll!
—Isn't this what you wanted?
—What?
—A doll—she answeredlooking at him for the first time since they arrived at the restaurant.
—Have you become mad? This is not you!
—And how am I?
—Well ... I don't know! You fight and talk and contradict me and you defend yourself and ...!
—What do I gain in doing that again? Every time I do it all you do is ignore it and end up doing things your way
— That's not true!
—Oh really? Let me remind you a few: you kidnapped me and I put an expensive a dress and makeup on me, happily waiting that I'll agree to date you, you gave me a slap, you kissed me by force andtouched me without my permission in a hallway at school, you got me into a plane without asking me anything, I can continue to say one after another all day long...
Tsukasa remained cold at her remarks, but undaunted
—So now you plan to throw to my face all the bad things I've done?
—No, I'm just saying that your character ends up being explosive and illogical. Besides, I myself have done too impulsive and senseless nonsense many times. What I said was to prove my point.
—Is that why you're not eating?
—No, I'm not eating because I don't want to. Tell me something, this interests me. Do you know what I want, Doumyouji?
—W-Well ... mmm...
-I figured, that's because you never listen. What I want now is to be in class, because if I keep missing...
—That is settled, all I have to do is talk with teachers to...
—No! I don't want to do that, I want to be in that school because I deserve it, not because some rich kidmeddle his nose in my business, no offense.
—I don't understand you, making such a fuss about missing a day of classes
—That's because it's not just a day, it's almost a week I was out...
—Yes, out in Hawaii right?
Suddenly the atmosphere became tense, Tsukushi had wanted to avoid the issue by deciding not to speak first, but it was too late.
—Yes...
—And with Rui
—...
—I never thought you were capable of something like that, although, you did something similar the time we went to the beach, if I remember correctly...
—I don't allow you to speak to me like that—she claimed gazing coldly at him—Take it back!
—Why would I if it is the truth?
—You don't know what happened on the beach!Besides, you just decide to throw your feelings at me without even asking if I felt the same! You didn't push me at the end, true, you told me you'll wait for my answer, but you must admit it Doumyouji... Deep down you knew I had feelings for Rui, all F4 knew...
—SHUT UP!
—...however, I also felt something for you. As stupid and unbelievable as it was even for myself, I felt something for you, but I was confused, Rui was my first love and to see him so weak and sad made me want to be there for him, that's why I went to the beach without saying anything, because I couldn't bear to see him alone. The kiss was my fault; maybe I should have refused, but at that moment I didn't care, if I have known how I would feel after that maybe I wouldn't have done it. To see you as I saw you, hurt me deeply, more than that I allowed me to admit. The rest of what happened between us is a long history Doumyouji, but the truth is that I fell for you; I really fell in love with you.
—So...
—But you hurt me, you hurt me so deeply that I don't know if it can really let this go overlooked, regardless of who was behind things, who forced you, you hurt me ...
—And that's why you ran into Rui's arms!
—Yes, that's why—Tsukasa was surprised that she admitted to it—because I was sick of everything and he told me there was nothing wrong in running, escaping. You have no idea Doumyouji, of how many times have been those that Rui was by my side helping me when you hurt me or I did something stupid to get away from you, he was the one by my side giving me strength so I wouldn't give up to what I felt for you, he was always on our side.
—It doesn't seem like it to me
—But it's true, at one point I thought I had forgotten that first love, that... peace I could go to if I was feeling sad. I even confessed my feelings directly to Rui for once, just to get it off my chest, he said he already knew and that was it. I was happy with you, I felt complete, just being around you caused my heart to beat uncontrollably and sometimes the mere fact of looking at you was enough to make me blush.
—Makino...—Tsukasa tried to hold her hand, but she didn't let him
—Don't, is not the same for us, not anymore.
—I don't understand…I don't understand what the hell must have happened between you two so that now you are confused and want to break up and get away!But just so you know, I will not accept it!
—It happened that he was there, again, closing my wounds!, and this time it was he who confessed his feelings, and I being so vulnerable as I was, falter and received with open arms that love he gave me.
—Received with open...? Makino, tell me the truth. What happened between you in Hawaii?
—... Nothing, what would happen?
—Don't lie! You slept together one room! Did he hug you? Did he kiss you? What did he do to you?
—If he did something to me or not is my business!
—You're a...!
—Careful with what you're about to say, Doumyouji!
Tsukasa was completely angry, he didn't know where to direct his anger and most because he had no evidence that anything had happened except the fact that they slept in the same room. And even though his instinct was right, it didn't matter, as Tsukushi wasn't going to talk about those things with him.
—If you must know, Rui was a gentleman during the time we were in Hawaii, that should be enough—it obviously wasn't.
—Ha! Do not make me laugh ...He gave you a ring; I think that leaves his intentions quite clear.
Tsukushi couldn't help blushing to that fact and the memories of that day flowed unintentionally to her mind, the words of Rui when he gave her the ring
"This ... is my declaration of war"
Her reaction did not escape Tsukasa, who once again flew into a rage and started screaming
—And surely that was more than enough to melt the lady on the spot! Does anyone who comes with a ring could make you fall in love with him so easily!
—No!But anyone who would come to give me love after being kicked like a dog by my boyfriend would also receive love from me!
—I told you why I had to do it!
—And what does that mean!That every time your mother threatens you with something you'll obey!
—That "something" was you and your friends!I was trying to protect you!
—Then answer me this Doumyouji! Tell me honestly if it had been impossible to send me a message explaining this in some way with one of the boys. Was it absolutely impossible!Tell me!
—T-Th-The old witch!
—I wonder how leaving me alone in an unfamiliar city can be protecting me!
Tsukasa, unable to answer, got up and threw away with his arm everything he could from the table to the floor, causing the fine china broke, spilling the liquid and ruining the food.
—YOU DON'T KNOW ALL I HAD TO GO THROUGH!
Tsukushi didn't move, her face was turned to one side and her hair hid her, she had both hands on the right side of her face.
—Makino...?
When Tsukasa finally saw her, he noticed the gauze was stained with what looked like tea or coffee, when he threw it all, somehow, the warm fluid, had fallen right onto the wound.
—Makino! Wait, let me see...!
—Don't touch me, I'm fine—she said pushing his arm awayleaving Tsukasa frozen in place—And you're right, I don't know what you've been through, but remember that you don't know why I've been through either. Doumyouji, talking about the past is useless now, what happened, happened. The truth is that yes, my heart is broken because whether I like it or not, my feelings for Rui became stronger in the time I was alone with him in Hawaii. Is it my fault? Yes, maybe it is, but I cannot help it, but like I said, I love you too, that's why I asked you both time to think, decide and ... I don't know, spend time with you without any kind of pressure from anyone. Can you do that? Can you please leave me alone? At least, just let...
—Is that you? Fine!I'll leave you alone!—And saying, he took one last look and left the restaurant like a cyclone.
—Doumyouji—Tsukushi murmured as she watched him storm out
—Miss, are you okay? Do you need us to call a doctor or your driver?—The restaurant staff had dared to approach her only after Tsukasa left and seeing that Tsukushi had the Eitouku's uniform they obviously thought she would've everything at her disposal, as a car or a bodyguard.
—I'm fine, thanks. Do not bother to call anyone, I'll do it myself. Sorry I could not try your food.
—Oh no, we are terribly sorry about the whole incident, please let us give you something for the road—and before Tsukushi could refuse, another waiter brought a box to take full of rolls, toast, and small treats for the road—Please Miss , accept it as a courtesy of the house.
—Very well, I will. Thank you very much.
—There's nothing to be thankful, miss. Please come back soon
Tsukushi doubted that at some point she could go back to that place, but seeing it before leaving, it was a wonderful place: warmly lit, with tables covered with spotless white tablecloths and a centerpiece of jasmine
It's really beautiful—she thought. Upon leaving she noticed the name "Café à la Carte"—How rare a name so simple.
Another thing she noticed was that the parking lot was empty; no one was there, not a single car.
She was horrified.
She had no idea where she was standing and for what she had seen the car ride took two hours. It would be impossible to be near a bus station since the area looked completely residential full of rich people. She dared not re-enter for fear of being abused when they discovered that the truth was that she had no money, all her fighting spirit was gone with Tsukasa.
Looking left and right, she decided on the path that seemed closer to a street where cars were passing, although they were all individuals, it would have to lead somewhere.
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Rui was hanging around at school, yawning for staying up so late listening to his mother stories and watching his father's photos of the places they had visited. He wanted to stop by Tsukushi's classroom, but didn't know whether it was right, he thought that, perhaps, to give her time meant not being so close to her at school and, if someone came to recognize in the door of her classroom (which was the most likely) she would notice it immediately and be uncomfortable.
However, his whim won over his good will and trying to do it as inconspicuously as possible, he glanced inside to see if he found her, but was surprised to see her desk empty.
How strange, when she called yesterday she said she'd come.
He checked his watch and realized that it was late, classeswill soon end up. He decided to go around the emergency stairs and nap a little, it would be impossible to do so at home with his mother running around from one place to another.
He opened the glass doors and went to the balcony for a second, enjoying the breeze of the afternoon when suddenly, he felt a presence and turned around to check. He found that it was nothing less than Tsukushi sitting in the middle of the stairs, clutching her backpack and looking nowhere.
—Tsukushi?—The aforementioned turned to look but said nothing. He approached her and noticed that her gauze was dirty with something brown—Tsukushi, are you okay?
—Rui?—She seemed as if then she fixedher eyes on him and realized who stood before her—Rui!—she cried softly and smiled as she dropped her backpack and hugged him.
—Hey, hey ... are you okay? Your gauze is dirty...
—Mmm, I'm fine. I cannot believe you're here, you always show up when I need it—Rui immediately caught the meaning of her words
—You being like this have anything to do Tsukasa?
Tsukushi broke away from him and stared at him, then, almost immediately, and without blinking, her eyes filled with tears and began to fall into his cheeks. She didn't seem to be making the slightest effort to mourn, but the tears were falling one after another at an alarming rate. Rui asked no more.
—Come
—Where?
—To the infirmary, we have to change that fast.
—No, I don't want to, the classes are about to end and everyone will see me.
—We'll go fast, it won't take us more than 2 minutes—he tried to make her stand up, but her legs didn't seemed to respond.
—I'm sorry, Rui. I walked more than 5 hours ... it hurts everywhere, besidesthat I've eaten almost anything since this morning, sorry, sorry...—Tsukushi didn't understand, she had always been strong, and hated to show weakness to others, but with Rui everything seemed to go backwards. By simply being there for her, he could make all her walls collapse leaving only her true feelings in the air, and that hurt. As these thoughts came to her head, she suddenly felt like she was floating when she saw what was happening, it was exactly that: she was floating; Rui had put on her backpack and then carried her like a princess while climbing the stairs.
—Rui, put me down!
—Do you wish to have a marked face?
—... No
—Then keep quiet and hide your faces in my chest or they'll see you, we're going to the infirmary.
Fresh tears fell from Tsukushi's eyes while she tangled her arms around Rui's neck and hid as he had told her. She realized that the bell had rung just before Rui opened the door and was aware of the murmurs that could be heard around her as Rui progressed, but the only response he got from him was to feel his hands giving a slight squeeze from where they were touching her, trying to reassure her.
Finally she heard a door close and knew she was in the infirmary, she felt something soft under her and Rui's hands leaving her, she was on the bed.
—Take off your shoes.
—N-no, I'm fine like this.
—Tsukushi
Again a look was all that was needed to make her comply, she took them off and waited for Rui to come with a basin of water.
—Here we don't have the medicines prescribed by the doctor, so I'll only cleanse your face and change your gauze, and then I'll take you home. All right?
All he got for an answer was a nod. When he removed the gauze on her face, he felt that this was a reddish purple different from her normal white and creamy skin, every time he saw the wound he blamed himself for not being able to protect her properly.
He finished quickly and made a phone call that lasted only a minute.
—Soon a car will come for us. Do you feel better?
—Yes. I'm sorry about all this
—You don't have to be—Rui wasn't asking anything, he was simple and purely concerned about what was happening at that moment.
—Doumyouji kidnapped me and took me to a restaurant in the morning, it was far away and I didn't know how to get back, so I could not come to class and ...
—Wait…he kidnapped you?—Tsukushi began to tell the whole story, when she finished, Rui had an inscrutable expression.
—Now you're here and you're safe, that's all I care for now—his phone vibrated and hechecked the message—the car arrived, come—and he took her in a princess hold again.
—I-I can walk!
—No, you can't.
And without further ado, he took her to the entrance of the school where other onlookers couldn't stop taking pictures with their cell phones. The trip to Tsukushi's house was not long, but it was more than enough time for Ruito think about what he would tell Tsukasa and how.
But who does he thinks he is? The first thing she asks is time and the first thing he does is take her to a place against her l, he went crazy...
—Young master, we have arrived.
—Huh? Ah, yes, thank you. Tsuku…—to Rui's surprise Tsukushi had fallen asleep beside him. He remained watching her a few seconds and made a kindda crazy decision—Sorry, Ogata-san, let's go home.
—Huh?—The driver looked at the rearview mirror and understood—Oh ... yes sir, right away.
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—Young master! Are you all right? What happened?
—It's all right, Sanae-san. She is Makino Tsukushi, a very important friend, I would like you to please attend her.
—Is the young lady you brought some time ago? You fell asleep while she was here.
—Your memory never fails Sanae-san—he said with a friendly smile while leaving Tsukushi in the bed of a guest room—Please, she is sound asleep, so try to get them wash her without waking her. I will also need gauze, hydrogen peroxide, tape and ... wait a second—Rui began to search his cell phone—yes, this cream should not be too difficult to get.
—Yes, young master.
—My parents?
—They went shopping and said they would return for dinner.
—Okay, that gives me enough time to do everything I need. I leave this in your hands Sanae-san, I'll go take a bath.
—As you wish, young master.
—You're the best—and giving a little hug to whom had nursed him as a grandmother, he went to his room.
—All right ladies—Sanae-san was addressing to the two maids who had appeared as if by magic behind her—the guest is Miss Makino, a very important friend of the young master, so I expect you to behave at the level. Got it?
—Yes, Sanae-san.
—Well. Wash her but try not to wake her, change her clothes and send the uniform for washing, drying and ironing, it must be perfect for tomorrow. See that the young master finds the drugs he asked for on the bedside table before he finishes his bath. Quick, quick...
—Yes, Sanae-san.
So important friend ... he doesn't deceive me—Sanae-san thought mischievously, who seemed to have discovered who was responsible for the so favorable change Rui had in recent months.
Rui finished his shower as soon as he could, changed into something more comfortable and went to the guest room. Upon arrival, the door opened, letting out two maids.
—Is she all right?
—Yes, young master. The young miss is really asleep. We gave her a sponge bath and change the uniform for pajamas. We left the drugs requested by the bedside table.
—Thank you very much.
—Ah, young master ... one more thing, besides what you asked, I also took the liberty of putting an anti-inflammatory cream with extract of eucalyptus.
—Why something so specific?
—Well, while washing young miss we couldn't help but notice her feet. She has several blisters and wounds, it must hurt a lot. Sorry if that was not what you wanted, young master-
—No, it's perfect, thank you for everything you've done—he said giving away a warm smile. The maids blushed a little but gave him a respectful bow and retreated to complete their obligations.
Rui entered and watched the small figure wrapped in bed, she looked more comfortable and quiet. Then he began his work, first he went to her feet, that just as the maid had told him, were wounded. He applied the cream on each of them and covered them again. He washed his hands and proceeded to take over her face. He removed the gauze and realized that this wasn't the one he had put in the infirmary, at a closer look, he noted that Tsukushi's face had also been washed very carefully, since only a small diameter of the wound was left unwashed. He then worked on finishing the job, taking care of the stitches and went on to apply the new cream that was sent to buy, ignorant of what was happening at that moment in the hall of his home ...
In the hall ...
—Good evening sir, ma'am. I thought you would arrive a little later.
— We decided to return earlier, right honey? Rui should be home and we would like to spend more time with him before Riku goes out on his next business trip. Everything quiet in here, Sanae-san?
—Yes, ma'am.
—Did my son come, Sanae-san?
—Yes, sir.
—Very well, I will refresh myself a bit, please ask serving the food. Thank you.
—As ordered, sir.
—Where is my son, Sanae-san?
—W-Well, ma'am. I think he was ... taking a shower, yes.
—Sanae-san?
— Yes, ma'am?
—What are you hiding?
—Well, ma'am, if I am to be utterly frank—and Sanae took her a little further for itching ears of other servants might be listening—young master is in the guest room.
—And why is he there?
—I think it would be good if you go see him, but don't say anything—she said with a wink. The good Sanae-san had been so many years in the family and got along so well with Hikari since she arrived that she considered her a daughter.
—I am quite curious, okay, I'll be right back—she responded with a big smile.
Hikari walked slowly at the beginning of the hallway leading to the guest room, she observed, to her relief, the door was ajar and she wouldn't have to invent some excuse to open it. She poked her head silently and what she saw left her speechless: His son, Rui, was pasting a gauze pad over the injured face of a girl with such care that it was impossible not to feel the atmosphere full of love. When finished, he shelved the remaining dressing and confirmed that she was covered and comfortable, sat down again beside her and stroked her hair staring at her tenderly with a smile on his face.
More than enough—thought Hikari, who moved away as quietly as she could.
She went to the dining room where, indeed, she found to Sanae-san giving instructions for dinner.
—Sanae-san, could you come with me a moment please?
—Yes, ma'am.
Hikari took her to the first floor office, closed the door and began.
—Tell me everything Sanae-san! Who is she!
—I don't know much, ma'am, I know the lady was here once before...
—Really?
Sanae then proceeded to recount what she remembered about Tsukushi fleeting visit to the house…
—But what about now?
—He arrived with her in his arms, he immediately asked us to care over her. I know her name is Makino Tsukushi.
—So Tsukushi-chan ... I'm interested in this girl, I want to know more about her. I find it amazing ... is just that you should've seen his face Sanae-san, I've never seen Rui looking at someone like that! To say that neither to Shizuka!
—I feel the same ma'am, with young Miss Shizuka it was more like a feeling of adoration of a child under an older sister.
—He wants to protect her, it shows a mile away ... well then, our work will be to unravel who this young girl is Sanae-san.
—Certainly, madam, count me in
The two women shook their hands in camaraderie and came out of the office as if nothing had happened. On reaching the room, Hikari saw his son and her husband waiting her for dinner.
—Rui, son.
—Good night, mother. Did you have fun shopping?
—Much, I brought some things.
—You shouldn't have bothered, thanks.
The dinner was pleasant and quiet, Hikari noticed Rui said nothing about the guest who he had at home, so she made a very innocent commentary.
—Rui, I see that your F4 friends don't come by, where are they these days?
—Now everyone is busier mother, each of us has responsibilities every day.
—Well said son, I hope that at some point also see to take charge of our own.
—Of course, Father.
—Well, but son—Hikari interrupted —you know you can bring your male friends and female friends into the house without any problems. When you have time, bring them to tea.
—Yes, mother-Rui didn't completely captured the sense of the words of his mother, but found it odd the mention of the word "female", however, he decided to ignore it. The rest of the meal passed without further comment and after seeing the gifts his mother had brought, Rui excuse himself to rest. Before going to his room, he called Sanae-san aside.
—Please, see that tomorrow morning Tsukushi is attended with a great breakfast.
—Yes, young master.
—Thanks, Sanae-san. Oyasumi.
—Oyasumi nasai, young master.
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Tsukushi was dreaming, she knew it because her face wasn't swollen or hurt and was oceanfront watching a beautiful sunset. Suddenly she felt someone holding her from behind and gave her a kiss on the neck, she just laughed, as if this small gesture was something ordinary between her and the man behind her. But who was this man? When she wanted to turn to see a hand covered her eyes and another caressed her lips. Why wouldn't he let her see him? She began to struggle, but suddenly felt warm lips on hers and stopped fighting. They were so familiar ... A gentle kiss ended and left a taste of such a great loneliness that she wanted more, she didn't want to separate herself from that person so quickly. She realized that the hand that covered her eyes was going down to her cheek and she tried to slowly open her eyes…
... to watch a ceiling painted in pastel yellow.
She blinked a few more times to check that it wasn't another dream, but the the pain in her right cheek confirmed that this was reality, but knowing that didn't reassured her at all. She was in a strange room, lying in a strange bed, with pajamas that was not hers. She got up in one go and got sick a little. According to the clock on the wall it was almost 5 ... but that couldn't be, at that time she had been ... where had she been? The last thing she remembered was the inside of Rui's limo.
She tried to walk and realized that the muscles of the legs and the soles of her feet hurt, but it was bearable. She peeked out the door and saw a large hallway.
Okey, I'm some rich kid's house.
Tsukushi left and advanced to a sort of cozy living room with a large window, then went left and saw the entry.
How the hell I ended up at the Rui's home?
She wondered. She had remembered the house thanks to the time they went on a "date", if that's what can be called a date. At least, she was more relaxed, for a moment she thought that Tsukasa had kidnapped her again, now that she knew she was at friend's home; she got thirsty, and tried to find the kitchen. She found it after getting lost a couple of times and was amazed again at all the space needed by the rich people to simple things.
When she was taking some water, the light went on suddenly. She turned frightened to see who it was and ran into a very beautiful woman, of long dark brown hair and brown eyes, eyes that seemed familiar somehow.
—Oh my! I didn't know there was someone awake at this hour in the morning.
—I-I'm sorry, ma'am! I woke up, didn't know where I was and ...I was t-thirsty so...
—It's fine, it's fine, take whatever you want. You are Makino Tsukushi, right?
—Hai.
—It is rare to have visits, more rarely, brought by my child
"M-My s-s-so-so-son"! Did she just say "my son"!
—T-then you are...
—Nice to meet you, I'm Hanazawa Hikari, Rui's mother.
—T-The pleasure is all mine, my name is Makino Tsukushi.
—Yes, I knew—she replied with a small smile
—I ... I'm really sorry about all this. The truth is that I don't even remember how I ended up here and on top of it in one of your rooms and ...
—No problem at all, any guest of Rui is important to us. Although I must confess Tsukushi-chan, ah, can call you Tsukushi?
—Yeah, sure!
—I must confess I am surprised that Rui suddenly bring a "female" friend to the house. I would like to know you a little more. Can I?
Truth was that what Tsukushi most wanted at the time was to run in the opposite direction, but the woman in front of her seemed so good and had such a captivating smile plus the very same eyes of Rui, eyes to which she hardly had been able to resist in more than one occasion.
—Of course.
—Come, sit with me. Tell me a little about yourself, I've never heard the name Makino, what do your parents do?
And with that question Tsukushi's pression dropped low. She felt like when she had been standing on Tsukasa's party and his mother had immediately asked who she was, who their parents were, what they did, how much they earned; it was just that in this world, all the rich who she had known measured the a person's worth by how much money they had in a bank account. Before receiving another blow, she decided to cover the hole before the ground got dug.
—I don't come from a wealthy family, ma'am. My parents are now in a fishing village trying to earn enough for a month pension from school. In other words, I am poor.
—I see. And how is that you're friends with Rui?
— Ma'am, I don't mean to be disrespectful, but I already know how this conversation will be like. Don't worry, I'll go soon.
—But, why? Are you somehow offended Tsukushi-chan?
— Well, no, but I've had experience with people who come from wealthy families, who always had everything and always will it all with just snapping their fingers and, truth is, I have no more patience to deal with them. They believe that just because we are poor we have no right to dignity or pride and stack us as fortune hunters or materialistic people getting us all together into the same sack.
—And is Rui like this as well?
—W-well, Rui is ... different, he was always different, although he has rich kid attitudes from time to time, is not as bad as the rest.
—Hahahaha ... —Tsukushi was surprised to hear a slight smile and see a calm face—you're really an interesting girl. Don't you think the way you're getting me in a sack with all the rich people is the same they've done to you?
—Well ...
—And you concluded all of a sudden I'm like the other rich people you've met?
—The truth is that...
—Is it or not?
—Yeah, well, then... please tell me what you have to say after knowing what I told ma'am. I'm poor, I live alone because my parents couldn't keep us all together here in town, now they're fishermen, my brother had to change schools and I have no social status, honor or beauty.
—To be honest, you remind me of me when I was young.
—Huh?
—My maiden name was Mogami. A normal girl without any wealth, my family was not as poor as you are describing your own, but I had nothing except my work and my desire to progress when I fell in love with Rui's father.
The whole time they had been talking, Tsukushi noticed that Hikari had not lost her smile and it seemed so strange to her this kind of treatment ... Soujiro's mother seemed to only follow the orders of his father, Akira's mother was a young spirit and Tsukasa's mother, was definitely a first rated bitch. But this woman was different from all, she seemed "normal" within the standards.
—I apologize.
—Never mind. I know what you must be going through in a school of spoiled kids. I've called from fortune hunter until loose woman, I suffered a lot for what I felt for Riku, but I don't regret it, I have my family, and from now on I will try to keep it together.
Tsukushi kept listening for a while and thought that that woman was really worthy of admiration because of all the fight she had to go through to marry the man she loved, for being such a loving mother who didn't had a chance to be next to her child in his most difficult times but that was trying to overcome her absence and a warm person with whom you could be at peace, she thought that maybe, Rui had inherited the ability to make others feel good just by being around, but she thought that only she felt that way.
—Soon it will be time to get up for breakfast.
—Yes
—Ah! I have a great idea why don't we make breakfast?
—Huh? Really?
—Yes! I haven't cooked anything for Riku in a while and I would like to surprise him. Would you help me?
—Of course.
The two women got up and started looking at where everything was in the kitchen when they were interrupted
—Ma'am! What are you doing here so early?
—Ah, Sanae-san, I got up for some water and found Tsukushi-chan, we were thinking about making breakfast.
—Making breakfast? But ma'am, that's our job, besides most things were ready yesterday. The master asked for a western breakfast today
Tsukushi felt a twist in the stomach as she remembered what had a breakfast like that led to the day before.
—But I want to do something to Riku, I haven't cooked in a long time Sanae-san ...
—Ma'am ...
—Then how about if we make muffins? It is a simple, light dessert that your husband could take to work if he doesn't get the chance to eat it at breakfast.
—You think so, Tsukushi-chan?
—Of course, the recipe is simple and it'll be ready in 30 minutes. Nothing complicated—she concluded with a smile.
—Well, it is decided then. Sanae-san, I'll use the oven on the right to make muffins with Tsukushi-chan, and no buts—she said winking at the old woman who had no choice but to accept.
While the rest of the staff was quite surprised to see the lady of the house int kitchen, and even more, with a strange girl beside her, Sanae gladly watched the two women whipping, powdering and baking, which caused laugh was that both were in pajamas and seemed not to notice it.
—Madam, I see that your dessert is already in the oven
—Yes, Tsukushi is good in the kitchen
—It's no big deal—she said somewhat embarrassed
—Well then, I would like the madam and the young miss to go change for breakfast at the table, it won't be long before the master and young master to get up.
—My uniform...
—It's clean, pressed and hanging in the closet of the guest room young miss.
—Oh ... uh, thank you very much
—Go, Tsukushi, I'll see you on the table—Hikari seemed thrilled to have had time to talk to a girl who seemed honest and sincere, which had grown too quickly and had to get used to be the support of his family.
That must be her... she has to be responsible for the change that Rui has suffered.
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Rui left his room and went to the dining room, since his parents had arrived, they shared all meals possible. He was a little worried about how Tsukushi had awakened, but chose not to raise suspicions in his parents and wait to go to school with her.
—Good morning, Father.
—Good morning.
—And mother?
—I don't know, since this morning she's excited about something and I said she had a surprise but I do not know what he's talking about.
—It's weird.
—Good morning to all! —Hikari waved in a light yellow dress with a long braid on the left side of her neck. Riku blushed slightly, he couldn't deny that his wife captivated him every day of every day no matter how long they had been together—Dear, I want you to meet someone, a friend of Rui, Tsukushi Makino.
Rui almost fell off his chair to see that behind his mother was Tsukushi, somewhat flushed and with a nervous smile, but calm in the middle of everything.
—Good morning, sorry for any inconvenience I may have caused you yesterday.
—Yesterday?
—Father, yesterday Tsukushi had a little accident and I brought her here because she fainted at school. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier.
Riku was surprised by the swift reaction of Rui and his desire to protect the girl next to his wife.
—Ah, of course, no problem. Ms. Makino, my name is Hanazawa Riku, it's a pleasure to meet you.
—T-The pleasure is all mine, sir, thank you.
—But well, let's sit down to breakfast that youngsters have to go study.
Given that statement, Tsukushi saw servants appeared from nowhere with different dishes in their hands and placed them quickly to all who were sitting on the table, even though she had spent time at home of the other F4, it was still difficult to get used to be served when all her life she had done things alone.
—Eat what you want Tsukushi-chan, but maybe you're more used to Eastern breakfast, I can order to prepare one for you—at the mention of these words Tsukushi already noticed two of the servants were ready to go to the kitchen at the minimum instruction.
—No, that's fine, I also really like this kind of breakfast, it just that I haven't had it in a long time.
The breakfast was something strange but pleasant, Tsukushi didn't know what to talk about but Hikari tried to make things as simple as possible and also Rui, knowing what her tastes were thanks to the days in Hawaii he knew what dish to get close to her and which not. Riku was observing the whole scene, the girl seemed not to be silly, or interested, but it was obvious that she didn't belong to that kind of world.
After breakfast, Tsukushi went to rinse her mouth and found that in the guest bathroom someone had left her new toothbrush and paste, so she used them, which she didn't find it anywhere was her bag or shoes. She figured they would be in the hall and went there, only to find Hikari, Riku and Rui at the door.
—You're here, now they can all go.
—Young miss, here is your backpack—Tsukushi saw Sanae-san approaching
—Thank you.
—Oh, yes. Riku, Rui ... here you go—and saying this, Hikari gave each of them a small bag—there are some cupcakes that Tsukushi and I made in the morning. Maybe you can eat them after your lunch dear—she stood on her tiptoe and kissed the cheek of her husband, causing he and Tsukushi to blushe at the open display of affection.
—Erm ... yes, of course. Thank you, dear. I'm leaving. Rui?
—I'll see you later mom.
—Have fun darling.
—Thank you for your hospitality Hikari-san— Tsukushi offered a bow and Hikari only managed to give a hug
—I hope you will come back Tsukushi, I would love to talk more with you.
—I-I'll do that... Hanazawa-san, sorry for any inconvenience I may have caused—this time she said turning to Riku.
—There was no discomfort; you are welcome in the house.
After the staff gave his farewell as a whole, the three left to the garden. Riku said goodbye to the two youngsters still wondering what kind of relationship did his child had with that girl.
I'd never seen him being so open with someone other than Shizuka ... however, he is definitely not feeling uncomfortable.
Rui, as ever, had asked Ogata-san, his driver, to have the car ready for the next day, although he used to walk to school, stopping from time to time on a park or a store, he knew that Tsukushi's feet still ache and preferred to make it easy for her.
—Give me that— and before she could do anything, Rui took her backpack and headed for the door of the car.
—I'm fine, really, I can walk.
And again she saw in action Rui's glance, that without being severe or cold, transmited all that he meant. Tsukushi hopped in the car without saying a word.
—Yesterday I saw Shigeru ... but I couldn't talk to her
—When are you planning to do it?
—I don't know ... truth is that this was the last thing I wanted to do, but she has more right than anyone to know where I am now with Doumyouji, after all we've been through...
—Take it easy, Shigeru is crazy about you, maybe it'll hurt at first, but I am sure that she will understand you.
—Thanks, Rui ... for yesterday, for today.
—There's nothing to thank about, is enough for me to know that you are well and safe.
It was like a reflex, but Tsukushi smiled, a real smile since she had to be kidnapped yesterday. Rui smiled back and was happy to still have the ability to make her smile when she was sad.
They came to school early and there were still had several students entering in their luxury cars, one after another. Rui came down through the door on his right with Tsukushi's backpack on his back and extended his hand to help her down; the gesture had been something that Shizuka had taught him long ago.
"A true gentleman should always offer help to a lady"
Tsukushi felt a little embarrassed, but took his hand and again the colors crept to her face. Rui noticed that her finger was naked, but had also noted that there was no necklace around her neck, so he didn't take it too seriously. She had asked for time and he would try to respect it even though deep down it was difficult for him.
Both of them saw in the distance a small crowd of people.
—What now? —Asked both at the same time
—But Mimasaka...Yuuki-chan said that she didn't have work yesterday and when I went to her home there was nobody there! And she never came back throughout the morning since I left someone watching! What if something happened? What if she was kidnapped by some guys from another country because she's our friend and want to hurt her to extort money?
—Relax! Nothing must've happened, and if did, we would've heard something already. Do you know something Soujiro?
—No, I just found out today when Shigeru told me. And you Tsukasa?
—I know nothing.
"The young lady came out right after you left young master, we gave her a few appetizers as an apology and then she left. We imagined that she would have some mobility"
That was the answer he got from the people at the restaurant the day before. Tsukasa had been thinking that if he left her there for a couple of hours, Tsukushi would repent of her behavior and will agree to talk to him like a normal person, so he went to vent his anger driving his car, but when he came back, he didn't find her anywhere. Even though he put men looking for her, no one had found her.
—You're amazing, Tsukasa ... This is how you care for your girlf-?
—Shigeru!
—Tsukushi-chan? —Shigeru turned and saw her friend alive and next to Rui—Tsukushi-chaaaaan! I was so worried about you! Are you okay? Did they do something to you? Did they asked for any ransom? —While speaking, she was touching Tsukushi to verify that she really was standing before her.
—Ransom? Shigeru, I'm fine ... I'm sorry I made you worry
—But where did you go that you didn't go home to sleep?
—Erm ...
RIIIIIIIIIIIING!
As if "saved by the bell" was not cliché enough, Tsukushi thanked her lucky stars for the interruption of the moment.
—Shigeru, I'd like to talk to after school today, can we meet somewhere later? I don't want to lose more classes
—Sure, sure, I'll come find as soon as you're finished ok? See you later—and she ran to her car. Tsukushi sighed heavily knowing what to expect at the end of the day.
—Chill—she heard Rui's voice—you'll see that everything will be fine. I'd accompany you to the classroom but I think that would slightly violate the agreement.
Because if I tell you that I don't want to let you go, don't want to leave you, that I want to hold you in my arms again, you could get away from me and that's the last thing I want.
—If you need anything you know where I am—he gave her the backpack and walked into the emergency stairs. Akira and Soujiro followed him without saying anything to Tsukushi and she turned around to go to school, however, Tsukasa was on his way. When she tried to pass him, he stopped her.
—What happened yesterday?
—Nothing. Can I go to school or are you thinking of kidnapping me again?
Tsukasa let her go without even looking at her and went off fuming ,completely mad at the fact that she and Rui had come to school together, but his pride would not let him act as usual.
She'll get tired, soon she'll get tired that I'm leaving her alone, that I'm not paying attention to her. I am the leader of the F4 and her lover whatever she says. She's mine...