Chapter 13
Honesty. A double edged sword that stabbed the wielder and the victim. Nobody walks away unscathed when the thruth is revealed. Hotaru's hand shook uneasily as she hung on to the phone like her sole existence depended on it. She knew that she shouldn't have answered but the costant ringing was getting to her. In her consciousness and in her sleep. Everytime the phone rang it made her jump. Hotaru found it difficult to concerntrate anymore. Her mind was always alert. She blocked his number several times but the bastard always found a way to call her. Hotaru was at the brink of losing her sanity. Tired of running away she grabbed the bull by its horn's and answered the phone. What could be so important that he insisted on assaulting her to tell her the information? But now she wished she hadn't pressed the accept button. "Repeat what you said to Tachibana," she whispered hoarsely. "I know a secret that your husband is keeping from you. Considering how new your married life is I wonder what else he's hiding. Don't you want to know?" the man on the other end of the phone asked. He was obviously amused by her reaction. He knew how to bait her. "Midori-kun would never hide anything from me. He's an honest man and my husband. Tachibana can't trust some random stranger to inform me about him," she fumed. "Ohh Hotaru. I thought that you were better than other women. I can't believe that even the likes of you can be deceived. It's quite disappointing. Disregardless I still consider you to be a fine specimen of a woman. Hence the reason why I'm going through all this trouble. Just for you," he sighed. Hotaru's mind was racing. The strange man knew her name. Was she even safe in her own house? What about the kids? She stepped back and took a peek into the nursery. Her babies slept soundly in their cribs. That calmed her down a bit. "Who are you?" she asked for the hundredth time. "You seem to have the roles reversed. You should be worried about your husband not me. He's the one who is hiding important details from you," he said. Who was he to tell her that Midori was a liar? In the past even with all the evidence against him she couldn't help believing that he was a kind gentleman. Reality hit her hard at her very first TGC when she found him standing over her groaning, beat up teammates. Despite the childish smile he wore and her defeated comrades lying on the ground she still found it hard to believe that it was his doing. Her determination to pulverize him came from her strong sense of justice, her need to protect and somewhat a selfish desire to accomplish her own goals in the process of defeating the unchallenged TGC king. Maybe if she defeated him she'd gain their trust and finally be able to reveal the truth about her true gender. Matsuoka would find peace in his heart. Maybe he'd let go of his tortured past. Yukki wouldn't have to worry about Matsuoka leaving him and returning to Midori if Matsuoka dealt with his past. Hotaru thought that she could shoulder all their burdens, hopes and dreams on her two shoulders. But Midori proved to her that she was no different from her teammates when he used her little white lie against her. "You're nothing but a deceitful little girl," he said. Never in her wildest dreams had she imagined that she'd be labelled as the villain. Those words froze her for long enough to allow Ichi to snipe her. But if she were to take his actions into consideration. Back then he might have used her secret to stun her but it propelled her to disclose her secret to her teammates even though they hardly took her seriously. But now it was different. She wore a wedding band on her index finger. The gold wedding band had been placed on her finger six months ago. Midori and Hotaru had a family together. He put so much effort into making sure that he was around when she needed him. There was no way he could be hiding anything from her. Right? "Your husband only played house with you because it was the only way to guarantee his inheritance. You were nothing but a tool of convinience to him. All of you are nothing but pawns in his game. He used you," the man said. "Used... me?" Hotaru asked. "Poor thing. I know that facing betrayal from a loved one is a difficult task but that's what makes life go around," he said. "Midori-kun wouldn't do anything to hurt Tachibana. And he definitely wouldn't do a sick twisted thing such as using his family for his own personal gain," she shot back. "Then tell me something Hotaru. Where was your husband on the night of the 12th of November?" he asked. " What? What significance does that have?" Hotaru asked. "On that night he..." The blonde woman turned around to see the stern face of her husband. Midori pressed the phone to his ear. "Hello stranger. Hn? Oh I took the phone from her. ... As usual you were mentioning a lot a trash so I decided end your call. It was embarrassing for the both of us...Sure of course. I did promise to kill you the next time you stepped out of line. Hahaha... That' s not happening. Oh well. You should get a life sometime and make living worth a while instead of bothering my wife. I'd rather not serve a prison sentence because I disposed of the trash... That is if they catch me. ... Don't call again or I will find you," the doctor said ending the call. Midori faced Hotaru with eyes full of concern. "Are you alright?" he asked. Hotaru threw herself into his arms. Midori held her trembling form and sat down with her in his arms. Her hands grabbed his coat tightly as she buried her face in his shirt. Midori held her closer to him. His heart banged against his ribcage. He should have listened to his instincts and hurried home earlier. But why did he continue prolonging the issue. The more time he allowed it to drag on the more it seemed like a sinister secret he had intentionally kept from her. But now he didn't didn't know how to begin. No matter which words he had tried to come up to explain the situation to her all of his actions back fired. In each and every scenario she left him. If she left him..if they left him there wouldn't be any meaning to his life. He would be engulfed in a darkness that not even survival games could supress. She was his. And now somebody was trying to take her from him. And he didn't appreciate it. "I'm sorry that I wasn't there sooner," he began. Hotaru shook her head defiantly. "You're here now. That's all that matters," she said. "Tachibana was so scared. It felt like he was watching me," she shaking. "It's my fault for being so careless. I'll make a formal report to the police and make sure that this scoundrel is dealt with," he announced. He absolutely hated seeing his wife upset. Midori grabbed his own phone and dialled the number for the police. Puffy green eyes looked up at him. Unshed tears brimmed in her eyes. "Midori-kun. You-You're not hiding anthing important from me are you?" she asked. This was his chance to tell her the truth. But she looked so miserable. How could he break her heart even more. It was a man's duty to carry the weight of every burden even if it meant shooting himself in the foot in the process. Pale blue eyes sincerely gazed into his wife's eyes. "I'd never do that to you Koi," he said pressing his lips against her forehead.
"Yuka-chan. Give Uncle Yukki one of those adorable gummy smiles of yours," Yukki pleaded as he playfully tickled the younger twin. Yuka kicked her arms and legs about as she squealed delightedly. "You like that don't you Yuka-chan. You are just the most adorable little thing I've ever seen," the bespectacled man chimed. Matsuoka cradled a recently exhausted Toshi on his chest. "I'm down. This little guy knows how to make people work," Matsuoka commented. Yukki repositioned his glasses. "Considering who his father is it must run in the blood. But I don't care. He's just too cute for words," Yukki said. "Don't mind me Yukki. I think I need a nap too," Matsuoka yawned. He'd spent the whole night job hunting. Despite his good looks and infectious charm he knew that his days as a host were slowly coming to an end. He had to plan ahead and find a job before he took the boot. "Mattsun I know that you're tired and the last thing I want to do is to interrupt your beauty sleep. But what are we going to do about that? " Yukki asked quietly. "Yukki! You promised not to mention that again. It was dark and the lighting wasn't too good. It could have happened to anyone," Matsuoka groaned. The mangaka snickered behind his sleeve. "I can still hear you know," the blonde shot back. "It wasn't me," Yukki lied. "Yukki it's only the two of us in the living room," Matsuoka pointed out. "Make that three," a charismatic voice replied. "What the? Midori? When did you get here?" Matsuoka asked. "Masamune don't mind my being here. Go on Yukimura. Please do divulge what that is," Midori said sipping his cup of coffee. "Mattsun this is bad. He now knows. He'll stop at nothing until he finds out the truth," Yukki pouted. "It's your fault for being a loud mouth Yukki. But our secret is safe. What's left is that we keep our silence," Matsuoka said. Midori shook his head regrettably. "Oh well. It was worth a try. But I suppose it's my fault on my behalf for believing that you'd tell me quietly. After all it is the most embarrassing thing I've ever witnessed. New year's eve was it? I think I have the evidence on tape," Midori laughed innocently. Matsuoka's face rapidly flared up. "Please Midori. Don't tell anyone," he begged. "Oh? I didn't think that you'd come to that quickly," Midori replied with an oblivious look. "I need a favour Masamune. I believe that only you can help me," Midori said more seriously.
Masahiko sat at his desk spinning his chair consecutively. Left right. Left right. He was slowly losing his patience. But he had to wait a little longer for his plan to come to fruition. A knock came from his door. "Enter," he commanded. He was curious as to who it was. Very few people had the knowledge of when he was present or absent. "Officer Tachibana apologizes if I'm inconveniencing you. I've already greeted all the other seniors so Tachibana decided to drop by and say hi," she said with a bright smile. Masahiko motioned her to sit down. He had always known that she was truly fetching. But how was it that she was even more beautiful now than he remembered. Even with her wondrous blonde locks chopped short she still made his heart pound. He grabbed a bottle of water to find an excuse to tear his eyes from her. "Welcome back Officer Tachibana," he said. "Hai. It's good to be back and running," she enthused. "I'm not quite so sure that those extra pounds you've gained will allow you to be as agile as before but since you're up for the task I won't stop you," he said. Hotaru forced herself to calm down after hearing the blatant insult. She wouldn't let him get the best of her. She had worked long and hard to get back into shape. Even Midori had begrudgingly helped her train. "Are you sure that you still want to go back to work even after I forbade you to?" he asked with scowl marring his normally gentle features. Midori knew what her work meant to her. In a world were the weak were trampled upon and criminals got free rein. Hotaru was amongst the few that fought for justice. She had dedicated her life to protect and serve. She swore an oath. And now it meant even more now that her own children were a part of the world. Hotaru would do anything to keep them safe. "Tachibana will not let you break my resolve. I'm an officer of the law. And as such I can't turn a blind eye to all the corruption in the world. I want Yuka-chan and Toshi-chan to be able to look up to me and feel proud. You understand don't you Midori-kun?" she asked quietly. "Don't go getting all sheepish when Tachibana is being serious here!" she yelled. "I'm afraid that I understand you more than anyone else," Midori said as he rested his chin on top of her head. "I took a month off from work," he explained. "Why did you do that?" Hotaru asked. She couldn't help feeling both excited and anxious. "Didn't I say that I understand you more than anyone else. I had a feeling that you'd be stubborn. Knowing all of this I stupidly clung to hope that I could fool you into going away with me. You and the kids. But of course you still want to train Hotaru-chan. Right?" he asked. Staring into his warm eyes had never made Hotaru feel more secure. She nodded her head once. "Hai," she said. "But if this vacation is as good as it sounds Tachibana can definitely do a rain check," she said. "Hahaha. You'll train hard for the next two weeks. Until you drop. When I'm satisfied with the results then I'll disclose the details on this extravagant vacation. I can't have you getting your way all the time. You'll get drunk on all that power. I was starting to feel too exposed," he chuckled. He felt Hotaru hand travelling up the back of his neck. The doctor precariously looked down where he found his wife nervously biting on her lower lip. She was toying with him but he couldn't avert his eyes. "Hotar..." he began. "Anata didn't you say say that you love Tachibana," she said. She tip toed and pressed a soft kiss against his lips. He greedily inhaled her appeasing vanilla scent. A growl of satisfaction rumbled in his chest. "I do love you," he claimed. "Then vacation first okay. Training later," she whispered promisingly. "Huh? For a moment there you almost got me," Midori chuckled. With a childish smirk on his face he pinched her cheek. "The price for attempting to bribe me is now you have to work twice as hard," he said with a nod. "A succubus is a fictional character that should remain fictional in the fine print of a book. I can't have my innocent wife turning into one," Midori said in matter of factly way. "Midori-kun is so heartless," she pouted. "I have a feeling that there's something I'm forgetting to mention," he said tapping his cheek. As if a light bulb had blinked alight in his mind the doctor snapped his fingers together. "Last night the strangest thing happened to me," he began. "Oh yeah," Hotaru said boredly. "Hmn. I wanted to snack on some carrot sticks so searched for them in the freezer. But then behind all those frozen vegetables I found a bucket ice-cream," Midori said. Hotaru paled."Funny. I wonder how that got there," she said guiltily. "So what did you do with it?" she asked. "Being as dedicated as you are I knew that there was no way you were going against your word and secrectly stashing junk food so that you could eat it when I wasn't around. That's ridiculous. I got rid of it," he said smoothly. "You threw away a perfectly good bucket of cookie dough ice cream," she cried. "You're quite perceptive Koi. I don't recall telling you what the type was but you got it right. And don't worry Hotaru-chan. That delicious ice-cream kept me company through out the night," Midori said. Hotaru smiled lovingly. "Tachibana is glad that you had a wonderful time. I heard that the couch is toasty this time of year," she said as she walked away. Midori froze for a second. "Koi we're leaving for vacation tomorrow," Midori said. "I can't wait," Hotaru said as she gave him a squeeze."Masahiko-san your well wishes always bring joy to me," the blonde officer said hardly able to hide the bile dripping from her words. The raven haired man noticed how tense she was. "Relax Tachibana. I won't send you home just because you fill out your uniform more than you used to," he said as he continued to prod her. "Enough! I don't know what manner of an evil spirit possessed me in order for me to step foot in here. Good day," she said promptly. After she left Masahiko leaned into his seat. "Did I go too far this time? That should throw her off my scent for a while. It would have defeated the purpose of my plan if she found out what my true intentions are. No matter. The ball is now in your court Tachibana. What will you do with the knowledge I gracefully bestowed upon you?" he asked himself."Officer Tachibana," Reito called. Hotaru temporarily forgot about her brooding as she faced her partner. "As much as I'd like to coddle you I'm afraid I can't do that. You happened to return at the worst time possible," Reito said. "What is it Reito," Hotaru asked. "Recently there's been a string of murders. The targets are all young women who are in the prime of their youth. At first it was a series of random murders or so we thought," Reito explained. Hotaru's core shook at Reito's words. She had hardly received word about the ghastly crimes. "Reito can you please explain this in detail at my desk?" Hotaru asked. She had barely turned around when Masahiko's door opened. Crimson eyes narrowed briefly at Reito in annoyance but he invited them into his office. "Officer Adachi and Officer Tachibana. You saved me the burden of searching for you by loitering in front of my office," Masahiko stated repugnantly. Reito cast his eyes down. "I apologise Officer Hasegawa. Please forgive us," Reito said. Hotaru retaliated with an unwavering cold gaze. Even after Reito elbowed the wind out of her lungs. "Why did you summon us officer Hasegawa?" Hotaru asked. "I'm glad seeing as your partner is keeping you up to date. There are a few things I'd like to discuss with you involving this particular case," Masahiko explained. "Whilst the murders seemed random at first all the victims had one thing in common," he said. Hotaru's ears perked up to hear what the raven haired officer was about to say. "They were blonde girls," he said looking into Hotaru's eyes. Hotaru felt a cold shiver run down her spine. Just because the girls were blonde automatically landed them a spot at the chopping board. That was too cruel. "Officer Hasegawa…." She began. "Hush. I'm not done yet. One way or another these girls had passed through Kamata High School . Whether it was just a sports meet or attending classes. These girls are all linked to that high school," Masahiko explained. "Knowing all this why haven't you smoked him out already," Hotaru questioned. "If only it were that simple. Despite our efforts it seems like there is another important pointer we are still missing. But I can't figure out what it is," he said. Masahiko covered his face with his hands. Seeing him so frustrated made Hotaru realize how bad the situation was. Without thinking she found herself rising up. "Officer Tachibana will do her best to catch this criminal," she proclaimed. Reito's heart swelled up with pride. "There is something that you can do," Masahiko said.
Rika rattled the toy in her grandson's face. She was glad when Midori had asked her babysit whilst they tried to find a suitable babysitter for their children. She had never been happier to have her son seeking her help especially when it involved her two favourite grandchildren. Hotaru had arrived early from work and she was preparing supper in the kitchen. With the meal preparations all done she sat down in the living room with her mother-in-law. "Rika-san I'm sorry for not being there earlier. I hope they didn't give you trouble," she said. "Not at all Hotaru-chan. But they are going to be quite the handful really soon. Toshiaki is already attempting to crawl all over the place. Yukari just tries to keep up with her adventurous older brother," Rika said. "Isn't it a bit early for them to start crawling Rika-san," she asked. "Not at all. They are just starting at the right age. Before you know it they'll be turning the whole house upside down," she laughed. "Mama," Toshi said after he heard her. He tugged at her sweatpants. Hotaru picked him up and smothered him in kisses. "I missed you a lot. It's difficult to concentrate at work when I'm always so worried about you. Maybe Midori was right," she said. Despite how normal she'd appeared to everyone else at work, deep down all she wanted was to stay at home with her kids. She wanted to cuddle them, take them out for walks and smother them in kisses. It felt odd not hearing their childish gurgles or their little giggles. Yukari sat at her mother's feet and raised her arms up. "Mama," she pleaded. Yukari was dressed in a purple jumper. Her top hair tied up in a cute pink bow. "Come here sweetheart," Hotaru cooed. She held them both close to her breast and cuddled them. "You had a wonderful time with Grandma didn't you. I hope you weren't giving her a hard time," she laughed. Hotaru knew that couldn't comprehend what she was saying but talking to them made it easier to recognize her and eventually they'd pick up a few basic words. Or that's what she understood from what Rika explained to her. So far everything was going smoothly. Her life was as active as she'd imagined it would be. It was all she ever wanted. Her eyes wandered to the picture seated above the fireplace. Their very first family portrait. They'd taken it on their kids very first Christmas. Hotaru had dressed up as a cute Mrs Santa Clause in a shapely red dress and red heels with white fur. The kids were dressed as cute little elves. And Midori was a handsome Mr Clause complete with the iconic beard and the infamous red sack of presents. They sat in front of the Christmas tree where the photographer took their picture. "Someone is on my naughty list," Midori said. A clueless Hotaru had the audacity to ask. "Who Midori-kun?" she asked. Midori's face became flushed as he laughed. "The person who burnt the cookies this morning is on my naughty list," he said mischievously. "But Tachibana burnt the cookies this morning," she concluded. Midori gave her a lingering gaze. "Which means you're on my naughty list Hotaru-chan. Luckily for you Santa is very giving. Even to the naughty ones like yourself," he said. Hotaru found her face flaring up. "This is why I love you so much. You're too innocent for your own good," Midori said as he pecked her on the cheek. The twins started fussing. "You're hungry aren't you. Just wait for a second," she said as she suckled them. "You've gotten really good at this Hotaru-chan," Rika complemented her. Midori's mother sighed. "I know that Midori only tolerates me for your sake," Rika said. The blue haired woman didn't show it but she was hurting inside. "Rika-san don't say that. I don't understand what happened in the past but Midori definitely loves you. Can Ta-I tell you a secret," she said looking around as if there were hidden cameras. "Tachibana doesn't know all the details but Midori-kun wandered off somewhere when he was younger and he couldn't find his way back home," Hotaru began. "Yokohoma Park," Rika said. Rika remembered that day very well because she almost lost her mind. Midori was an elementary student and he was as adventurous as they came so he went off on his own. Rika had been sipping on her cup of decaffeinated coffee when her son left. She kept on chatting with a friend as she waited for him to return. But the only thing is that he didn't. "Midori," she called. "Midori-chan. You know that I don't like playing hide and seek. Come out wherever you are," she said. But her son didn't respond. She searched for him for an hour but nightfall was fast approaching. Rika called the police and they formed a search party but her son was nowhere to be found. It almost worried her sick. But she kept strong in her faith that he was alive and well. The blue haired woman decided to follow her intuition. There was a muddy swamp dividing the grassland and the forest. Rika crossed the muddy swamp and entered the forest. She kept on calling his name. The trees branches scraped at her. The frosty November chill prickled her skin but that didn't stop her. That's when she saw it. A little light glowing at the mouth of a cave. Rika ran holding onto the hope that her son was in there and alive. Pointing her torch at the cave the light fell upon a balled up Midori. Her son was shivering. "Mom?" he called. Rika dropped the torch and embraced her son. She removed her coat and wrapped it around him. "Why did you run off like that!? W-Why Midori-chan? I was so worried about you," she cried. "Mom. I'm alright. I sprained my ankle on my way back so I found this cave. I wanted to rest for a bit but I ended up falling asleep. Before I knew it, it was dark and I couldn't find my way back. I'm sorry," he sniffed. "It's alright Midori-chan. I'm glad that I found you," she said. "I remember that day all too well," Rika said. "Midori-kun said that he had no doubt in his mind that you'd be the one to find him. He trusts you more than you know and he loves you a lot Rika-san. So don't doubt Midori-kun like that," Hotaru said. "Thank you Hotaru-chan. I'm glad that my son has someone like you in his life. I couldn't have asked for anything better," she said. "I'm just glad that got the chance to know him," Hotaru said.
"You've been quiet honey," Midori said as he loosened his tie. "Oh? You noticed huh," she said. "Did that man call again?" he asked. Midori didn't like silence. It always meant that something important wasn't being said. "No. Tachibana's day was quite peaceful. He didn't call me," she said. "And work?" he asked. Hotaru didn't know how to phrase what had happened at work. Especially if she didn't want him to blow his top off. "How was work Midori-kun?" she said redirecting the question back to him. Midori looked at her suspiciously. "Hn? Good. Nothing out of the ordinary. But I believe I asked you first," he said. "Listen Hotaru-chan. If something happened at work you should tell me," he said sternly. Hotaru closed the magazine she was reading. "How do you feel about high school Midori-kun?" she asked. Midori's eyebrow quirked up. He covered his mouth to try to hide his laughter. "I didn't know you were into that kind of stuff Hotaru-chan. That's pretty kinky even for me," he stated the amused glow in his eyes never fading. "What stuff Midori-kun?" she asked. "The student and teacher forbidden romance. That's a bit too much for me," he said confidently. "Technically speaking you were my sensei in a way too. So Midori-sensei it seems like you're being a hypocrite," she mumbled. "Oh?" he said. She really got him with that one. "Never mind about that. You were saying something about high school," he said pulling on his sleeping shirt. He got into the bed and moved closer to her. Hotaru's throat grew dry. Her fingers ran through Midori's hair. "You need a haircut," she said. "I missed my appointment last Sunday. I ended up sleeping in longer than I thought I would because somebody is a glutton for punishment. As much as I'd like a rerun of last weekend I can't afford to miss another appointment. I'd suggest that you get on with it," he said coolly. "How would you feel if I went back to high school," she asked. "Strange. I don't know what to think. I didn't think that you dropped out of high school. But it's okay. I'll support you the whole time," he said with a childish grin on his face. "Baka. I didn't drop out of high school. I'm supposed to go back to high school as an undercover cop!" she blurted. "Undercover?" Midori asked. "Why can't they choose someone else. You just returned to work," he said. "That's what Tachibana said. But Masahiko-san…" she said. 'Masahiko,' Midori thought with a scowl. "Don't do it," he commanded. The air in the room grew stiff. "But Midori-kun the body count is now at 3. All of them are high school girls," she said. Midori's moment of mirth completely evaporated when he realized the seriousness of the situation. "You didn't mention that you're trying to nail down the notorious 'Puppet Master' before," he said. Hotaru was surprised that Midori knew about the killer. "All the more reason you shouldn't involve yourself in that debacle. The last thing I need is to lose you too," he said. Despite the fact that she probably saw him as the enemy at the moment he was only being cruel for her sake. "Thanks for the vote of confidence Anata. If you think of me like that I can't help but wonder what the rest of the world thinks," she said emptily. Midori knew that what he said probably took a blow at her pride. He preferred to have her pride shattered than burying the only woman he had ever loved. Being tough was always a difficult task for him but he always pulled it off effortlessly. It made him wonder whether his heart was in the right place or not. But for her sake he was certain that he meant well. Memories are more than just vague or vivid recollections of the past and the knowledge that we acquired. They make us who we are because they remind us of what we were yesterday. To stop us from repeating the same mistake. He'd have to be a magnus ignoramus to let her walk to her death. The 'Puppet Master' was a sick bastard. Like his name suggested he was a psychotic murderer who turned his victims into literal puppets. He drilled holes into their joints and ran wire rope through the openings. Very much like a puppet. There was no denying that the man was mentally unsound. The causes of death were all the same. Tetanus infection from the steel wire. Shock from being drilled alive and the blood loss. Midori was unfortunate enough to have witnessed one of the victim's corpses first hand. It was gruesome. The doctor closed his eyes to calm himself and regain his composure. "You look pale," Hotaru commented. "I just happened to remember something unpleasant. Don't do it Hotaru-chan. Please," he pleaded. Hotaru wanted to argue with him again but he had obviously made up his mind about the job. And she was yet to make her final decision. The sounds of a restless little one crying broke the awkward silence in the room. Hotaru was the first to get up. "Rest well Midori-kun. I'll get it," she said. Midori nodded in acknowledgement as she left. He waited for her to return but she didn't. The doctor thought nothing of it. His exhaustion got the better of him and he fell asleep. In his sleep his hands automatically sought for her presence. But when he felt nothing the green haired man woke up. She was probably in the nursery. It wasn't unusual for her to sleep in the nursery especially when Yukari was awake. His daughter had grown to be more playful than she was at first. Yukari was a force to be reckoned with he thought with a smile. He cracked open the door to the nursery and Midori froze. He was stuck in a nightmare. He was probably still dreaming. Unsure if he was seeing things or not the doctor pinched himself. There was no one in the nursery. No Hotaru. No Yukari or Toshiaki. The room was just empty. "Hotaru-chan," Midori called. Silence reigned. Midori checked each and every room in the house as he called her name. Eventually his mother woke up to find out why her son was causing such a ruckus so late at night. Rika walked into the nursery. She found him hunched over the golden gift box the delivery man had delivered in the afternoon. "Mother what is this?" he said coldly. Rika shrunk back at the unwelcoming tone. "A gift for Hotaru-chan," she said. Midori threw the box violently against the wall. "Is this your idea of a gift?! I made one request of you mother. I asked you not to accept anything without a return address," he snarled. Photographs had fluttered all over the floor. Newspaper articles from November were in shreds. The doctor covered his face with his hands. "Imagine my surprise waking up to find that my wife and kids were not here," he said coarsely. "And nobody else knows where she is. She didn't even turn to Kanae for help. So where is she?! Answer me! " Midori said. "What do you mean son? Are you saying that Hotaru-chan ran away and she took the kids with her?" she said. Hotaru wasn't reckless so there must have been a good reason. Her daughter in-law was not the most graceful or elegant but she was the kindest and the most considerate. She wouldn't have done something like that without a valid reason. Rika picked up one of the photographs. The elder Nagamasa felt her strength drain. The picture had been taken at the private dinner where Midori's father had bestowed Midori with the deeds to Nagamasa Pharmaceutical Corporations. The leading pharmaceutical in all of Japan. And his share of Hoshishiro hospital. The meeting had been private and confidential with only the lawyers and a few eye witnesses present. Apart from those few, nobody else had knowledge of what had happened. The newspapers had only been speculating on what should have happened but they had no solid evidence. But Hotaru couldn't have fled because of a few photo's she had no idea about. Rika's keen violet eyes noticed a black device under the shredded paper. "A voice recorder?" she said. She picked it up and played the audio. "It's been a while hasn't it dear mother," Midori said. "I'm glad that you noticed Midori-chan," she replied. "Even though you know how much I hate anonymous calls you still called me anyway," Midori sighed. "What can a mother do? Especially when her own flesh and blood treats her like a stranger and blocks her number," she said. Midori chuckled. "Oh yeah. I forgot about that," Midori said. "Since you answered then it probably means that you're willing to talk. Finally seeing reason, "Rika said. "I've finally found someone," Midori said. "Oh? You do understand that the only way for you to get your inheritance is by giving us a new heir before your 34th birthday. You currently have three years more or less before that happens. So am I correct to say that she will provide us with an heir and my to be grandchild?" his mother said. "I don't understand what the fuss is about. Human beings are nothing more than pawns a king has at his disposal. Even if it is my child it's just an extra pawn on the chessboard. If I give you a grandchild, I will gain my inheritance and you will stop pestering me. Correct?" Midori asked. "Yes. That is all Midori-chan," Rika said. "Then consider it done, mother," Midori said. Hearing his own words from the voice recorder made his skin crawl. He was disgusted with himself. Even though he'd said half of those things to annoy his mother, Hotaru did not know that. She probably saw him as a monster. He felt like a monster. Those words were undoubtedly his. And his wife had suffered the full impact of his careless actions. Midori's phone started ringing. Hotaru-chan. Midori answered the call in a heartbeat. "Where are you? Are you alright?" he asked. "You really screwed up huh," a male voice answered. "Who are you and what have you done with my wife?" Midori growled. The man on the other end of the phone laughed. "I'm just mending her broken heart. You know. The one you fucking ripped today," he said. The line went dead.
The raven haired man swirled the whisky in his glass. He never expected things to turn out so favourably. Masahiko's strategizing skills even appalled himself. Crimson eyes turned to the guestroom. The room that he had never used since he bought his house. He wasn't a fan of human company but he loved having her around. Especially now that she was weak and depended on him instead of the sadistic creep she called her husband. Initially separating them had been enough but he hadn't expected to receive a call from her in the middle of the night. Her voice was shaky. "Hello?" he said. He was surprised to see her name on the caller I.D. Masahiko was at a bar having a much needed drink. Frankies was his favourite place to cut loose and screen out potential canvas's for his masterpiece. He never for the life of him imagined hearing her voice outside work. "Tachi-Tachibana is really sorry. I shouldn't have," she hiccupped. Masahiko sobered up after hearing her distressed voice. "What's wrong Tachibana? Did you finally crack? Are you losing it for real? " he taunted. "I'm sorry," she whispered. "Don't apologize to me anymore. How can I make you feel better?" he said quietly. "I know it's late but can you pick me up from my house. I'm being such a burden right now but I can't turn to anyone else," she cried. "I'll be there Tachibana. Just be ready by the time I get there," the raven haired man said. The deputy chief of police hadn't anticipated that she would bring along her kids. Which was plainly stupid. She'd have to inhumane to leave them behind even if they carried Nagamasa's genes. Hotaru lay on the bed fast asleep with her twins beside her. Masahiko was relieved to find her sleeping peacefully after what she'd been through. Basically he'd made her go through that crap but he'd casually shrug off the blame to Midori. It was his fault. He was the one who took her from him. He was the one who made Masahiko take such extreme measures. Masahiko ran his fingers through his hair. He was on his way out he heard light whimpering. The blonde baby was tossing and turning with his little fists balled up. "Shhh," Masahiko said. Toshiaki continued squirming. Masahiko leaned over the bed and picked up the blonde baby from under the armpits, away from himself. "You're being noisy," Masahiko said. Little blonde brows knitted together. His eyes were half closed but he opened them when Masahiko spoke. Masahiko was familiar with those eyes. They were a mirror image of Nagamasa's. "And here I thought that I could get rid of him that easily. You were sleeping half a second ago. What's going on with you?" he asked. Masahiko who hadn't handled a baby in his life didn't know what to do with the little thing especially when he started crying. Masahiko found himself rocking the baby on his shoulder. "You like that huh? Don't get too cocky. This is a once in a lifetime thing," Masahiko said. Toshiaki started crying again. Masahiko grew even more lost. "Do you need a fresh diaper? Are you hungry?" he asked. The deputy chief of police grabbed a bottle from the bedside table and sat on the bed. He held him the way he'd seen Hotaru doing before and fed him the milk. Toshi latched on gladly as he sated his hunger. He placed his mitted hand over Masahiko's hand as if to secure his food. "Take your time. I don't think I'll be going anywhere for a while. If you want, we can watch a movie downstairs. Just don't throw up all over the couch. The cleaning lady isn't due until the day after tomorrow," he said. Without thinking much of it he carried Hotaru's son and went downstairs. Masahiko Hasegawa didn't know how to let other people into his life. Or rather he didn't want to. After he lost his mother he shut the world out. People were all cut from the same cloth. Human beings were all a bunch of pigs in clothing that clamoured for the same thing. Money, sex and fame. That was what he believed. Until by chance he met Hotaru Tachibana. His Achilles heel. Bit by bit he found himself opening up to his human side. The sinful loathsome half of his entity. But sin felt good. That's why he didn't lose heart when it came to separating her from Midori Nagamasa. He didn't care that they had gotten married or that they had two kids together. Masahiko's greatest sin was loving her under the circumstances she was in. Masahiko lied down on the couch and rested Toshiaki on his chest. "Do you like Cheetos's? I've only got the cheese flavour. Or maybe you only supposed to drink milk," he said. He switched on the TV to catch up on his favourite series.
Midori felt powerless. The doctor hadn't slept a wink worrying about what had happened to his wife or who she was with. He had done everything he could to find her. He contacted everyone he knew but he had no luck. His wife. His two beautiful children. He didn't have anyone but himself to blame. Rika brought him a cup of coffee. "I wish I could help you Midori. Just try to be strong for a little longer. I know that we'll find them," she urged. Midori nodded his head. But the words entered one ear and left through the next. This new emotion had a much bitter taste than defeat on a survival game field. He felt broken and torn up. Like a vital piece of him was missing. Was this what they called grief? At the same time, he had the burning desire to slaughter the man who had picked up the phone in Hotaru's stead. He knew that voice so well. It was the stalkers voice. The same man who had tormented his wife for months was now comforting her. How ironic. There were very few people that Midori knew had displayed their malicious intent so openly and there was a certain name at the top of his list.
Matsuoka, Yukki and Haruki drove around searching for Hotaru at the places she used to hang around. Yukki sighed and sipped from his juice box. "I know that nobody is willing to say it but let's address the elephant in the room. We were all aware that it was only a matter of time before Hotaru regained her senses and left that maniac," Yukki said. Haruki gave him a well-deserved head chop. "Thank you Haruki," Matsuoka said. "Right now isn't the time to be an ass Tooru. What if she jumps off the bridge or something?" Haruki said. Yukki returned the head chop. "Plainly you're being the bigger ass. FAT ASS!" Yukki yelled. And so a series of head chops were exchanged. Matsuoka stopped the car when he had had enough. "Will the two of you shut up! Do you know how serious this is? What if she got kidnapped? What about the kids? If you're not willing to be serious you might as well as get off now and hire a taxi to send you back home," the host said. Matsuoka remembered the distress in Midori's voice. The worry was so evident that Matsuoka almost shed a few tears. But he had to be strong and help his friend search for his family… their family. ToyGunGun and Hoshishiro might have had their differences but they put it all behind them. To start a new life together as one big family. He had noticed a few changes in Hotaru but he blamed it all on exhaustion. He had experienced babysitting her kids before and he knew that it was no easy feat. But maybe something else could have been bothering her. "I'm sorry Mattsun. You know how I get when little brats start mouthing off," Yukki apologised. "I'm sorry too. I just don't understand hare-brained perverts," Haruki said. Matsuoka smiled. Even though there was trouble he could count on the two of them to keep him sane.
Masahiko swung around in his office chair and yawned. Despite being tired he felt happy. He didn't know that having Toshiaki to keep him company could be amazing. He ended up watching the two twins doing what babies do for most of the night. The twins were the first to nod off leaving Masahiko somewhat relieved. There was something about watching their innocent faces that brought a certain calm to his heart and mind. Masahiko heard his office door open and close. "I always figured you to be the gentleman," Masahiko said. "I told you what would happen when the gloves came off. I will massacre you," Midori said. Midori bloodlust was so thick that it rattled Masahiko's spine. Midori gave him sub-zero glare as he cracked his knuckles. "This is the day you're going to wish that you had died 15 years ago, you worthless piece of human garbage. How does it feel to know that you're getting a one-way ticket to hell," Midori said. "Fufufufu. Hotaru-chan can't possibly mind if I have one murder on my criminal record especially if it's one less human scum to stain the face of the earth," Midori smiled sadistically. Masahiko stood up to face Midori. "I'd be damned if I let you walk all over me. Get the hell out of my…" Masahiko said. He had barely finished talking when Midori gave him a right hook to the jaw. Masahiko slammed against the wall. "I will kill you Masahiko Hasegawa," Midori said. His eyes had turned steely and cold. The eyes of a murderer. The deputy officer flexed his jaw. "You're more than just talk aren't you pretty boy. Let's see what you've fucking got," Masahiko prompted. "Let's hope that you can grovel long enough to see it," Midori added dangerously. Masahiko aimed his fist at Hoshishiro's leader but he missed him by a hair. "Too slow," Midori growled as he rammed his knee into Masahiko's stomach. The raven haired man gasped. "Where is she?" Midori asked. "I don't know what you're talking about," Masahiko said. "Oh? I'll help you jog up your memory," Midori said as he bombarded him with punches and kicks. Masahiko held onto his desk for support. "Your wife," Masahiko began. The green haired man's fist stopped a breath away from Masahiko's face. Masahiko clutched his side. "Tell me," Midori demanded. "She's at my house. Hotaru-chan is well," he said. "And my kids. If you harmed a single hair on their heads," he threatened. "They're fine," he said. Despite having being beaten to the brink of losing consciousness Masahiko was smiling. The raven haired man ruffled his hair. "You're a lucky man Midori Nagamasa," he said. "No matter what wrong you do you're always at the centre of her heart. I tried my best to smear your name in black but she can't help but love you. It makes me extremely jealous to know that someone like you has somebody who believes in you so much. But even so I can't justify the wrongs that I did. Being with them made me realize that," Masahiko said. Midori's knuckles bled raw. "I can't sympathise with you. Especially after what you did. Just stay out of my sight," Midori said. The doctor left the Masahiko's office were curious eyes trailed after him.
Hotaru closed her eyes and lost herself in an ocean of thoughts. Masahiko. Masahiko confessed to being the stalker but Hotaru couldn't bring herself to hate him. He realized his mistakes and confessed but Midori… Midori had used her. The one person she loved the most, her support, her friend and husband had done something so cruel. Toshiaki and Yukari were not objects to be used and disposed of as he saw fit. And somehow she'd disillusioned herself to think that they shared the same values. Tears prickled her eyes again. She quickly wiped them away. All she ever wanted was a happy family. A house filled with love and laughter. Was that too much to ask for? The door bell rang drawing Hotaru out of her thoughts. Hotaru hurriedly stood up to answer the door. She was expecting to the mail man at the entrance but her traitorous husband was looming at her. "How can I help you? You got what you wanted Midori-kun. What more can you take from me?" she asked coldly. Midori's eyes widened in surprise at the expected unexpected reception. He had never seen her looking so pale before. She glared at him with her puffy red rimmed green eyes. "Stop pretending like you care already. I've had enough of your lies and deceit," she hiccupped. Hotaru faced the other direction to hide her view from him. "It was all real Hotaru-chan. I can't bring myself to hurt you," Midori said. "Fine job you did then. Tachibana feels better than ever," she replied caustically. "Four years ago I found myself madly in love with a particular blonde haired girl. She was feisty, brash, bashful, kind, considerate, compassionate, beautiful and most of all her big heart had room for someone like me. I knew that she was the only person who I wanted to spend the rest of my days with. And I've never faltered. My father owns the Nagamasa Pharmaceutical Corporation and it has been passed down from generation but he knew that the Midori from the past didn't have any plans to settle down or even father a child. So he made a certain rule. The only way I could inherit the company was if I had an heir. But frankly speaking I didn't care about the company. But my perspective changed when I met you. It was then that I understood the importance of what my father treasured and I wanted to pass it down to our children one day. Nagamasa Corporation is more than just a business Hotaru-chan. It's a symbol of trust in the family as it is passed from one generation to the next. I wanted to take care of that legacy for them," he said. Hotaru desperately wanted to believe him but she was hurting so much. "It doesn't change what you said," she whispered. Midori was dying to hold her but he couldn't. Not until she was prepared to accept him. "I know. It was foolish of me to say something like that even if it was to spite my mother. But I apologised to her and I'm begging you to forgive me Hotaru-chan. I can't continue living without you," Midori declared. "I love you Hotaru-chan. If you could take a foolish man like me back I'd be honoured," he said. Hotaru wanted to lash out at him and mope around for a bit longer but her heart told her that he was telling the truth. "Midori-kun, I suppose Tachibana can give you a second chance," she said. Midori captured her in his arms warmly. "I'm happy that I married you," the doctor said. Hotaru noticed the bandages around his hands. "I hope you weren't punching holes in the walls," she said. "Eh? You don't want to know," he replied quietly.
A few months later.
"Ichi. The tomato slices are too thin. The salad won't be any good if the proportions are not balanced," Fujimoto voiced freely giving his expert opinion. The sniper pointed the tip of the blade at Fujimon giving the knife a deadly glint. "Ichi that is dangerous. You can hurt someone with that," he said. "I'm only planning on hurting you," she said lowly. Fujimon who had grown accustomed to her constant threats glowed with pride. "You're so cool. Always threatening me like that," he sang. Ichi sighed and continued chopping the tomatoes. "I suppose ending you is pointless. There's no cure for stupid," she mumbled. Hoshishiro and ToyGunGun had been tricked into barbequing by the fierce leader of Hoshishiro. Said leader was sitting in the sandpit with the toddlers filling the buckets with sand. Matsuoka stood next to the hot grill in the blazing summer heat. "Yosh. What a day," he said. Haruki who had hardly worn any sun block was slowly turning as pink as an over cooked shrimp. "Of all the underhanded tricks he has used. This one is by far the worst. And why am I the one manning the grill. I can feel my blood vessels shrivelling up," he complained. Matsuoka threw his head back and groaned. "We both got the short end of the stick. But it's better this why. If you so much as let Midori near the grill the fire department will execute us. The only help he's good for is adding twigs and poking the charcoal," Matsuoka added regrettably. Haruka and Naoki were talking under the shade of a tree. The older Hosokawa twin clenched his fist. "Naoki Hasegawa!You traitor! What did I say about fraternizing with the enemy?!" he yelled. The continued talking as if nothing had happened. Haruki's temper sky rocketed. "Ignore me then. See if I care," he huffed. Matsuoka was stunned that Haruki still fell prey to such childish tactics. But oh well. Kanae and Hotaru sat on the picnicking cloth with Kanae's five-month old daughter. "Tamako-chan. You're the cutest," Hotaru crooned. Hotaru bounced the infant on her lap. Tamako gurgled as she clumsily reached for Hotaru's face. Tamako had taken mostly after her father with the same brown hair and her mother's light brown eyes. "Tamako is a pretty happy sleeper. She understands her mommy's needs," Kanae bragged. Hotaru groaned and spared Kanae a sheepish once over. "Tachibana knows that you have it good. Now stop gloating before you re-inflate," Hotaru said. "I was only fat because I was pregnant. What else did you think?" her best friend asked. Hotaru dared not to mention what she really thought had happened to her best friend lest she forfeit her life. "Nothing. Tachibana wasn't thinking straight," she replied. "Damn straight," Kanae puffed. Midori found himself on the ground with his two kids standing over him like they just conquered a tower. The twins mumbled to each other for a few seconds before they turned to their father. "I don't think I like were this is going," he said. "Midori is a great dad. Look at him playing the prisoner. He's even raising his hands in surrender," Kanae laughed. Hotaru sighed and handed Tamako back to Kanae. "Midori-kun! I told you not to watch Sons of Anarchy with the kids around," Hotaru yelled as she made her way to the sandpit.
End of chapter 13
A/N. It's been a long journey and I had a great time writing this book. I hope you had a great journey with the characters too. This is the end of my first AoharuXKikanjuu fanfic. I hope you liked it. As your author it's my sincerest wish that I keep on finding the inspiration to write. Much love,VELVETSIN.