Hello Everyone,
I don't own Skip Beat, Yoshiki Nakamura-sensei does, So I give her all credit for the original Story, While I own this fan-fiction – My first about Skip Beat
Chapter 14:Emerging Challenges
(At the on-set Filming Site)
Kyoko returned to her dressing room to get changed into her other outfit, … after changing, she opened the door and let Yashiro In
Yashiro: That was truly amazing Kyoko-chan …. You crushed it!
Kyoko: Thank you Yashiro-san … I did my best!
Yashiro: So you're going to film more scenes since you finished all the scheduled scene for today?
Kyoko: yeah … I mean … I didn't except us to shoot all the scene at once and have No NG's at all … at some points I thought " this is no good", but the producer liked it and we went with it!
Yashiro: Your becoming an expert as this … No surprise there … you have passion for this, and you do your very best as always!, so I'm quite proud of you!
Kyoko, laughed it off saying: Your exaggerating Yashiro-san … I'm indeed passionate about this … but, I am surprised it's going this well … I don't want to Jinx it though!
Yashiro: Don't underestimate yourself! …. Now go and crush it some more!
Kyoko smiles and says: I will do my best!
Yashiro watches Kyoko going towards her castmate and smiles … then he sends an update to Lory letting him know that Kyoko finished all the scenes successfully, and they will go ahead and shoot extra scene, since they have the all this extra time at the reserved location.
(At Viride General Law Office)
Seeing Saena on the ground with blood pouring from her injured head, Kioshi apologizes for his mother, saying: I'm sorry, I didn't expect my mother to go this far … Are you ok?
Furious, Todoh-san Roars: You think a "Sorry" will fix this?! … this is an assault! … I won't let this slide … you've gone way too far!
Akemi Nakano: This is unacceptable … I can't support your case when your treating her in such way … she was nothing but respectful and she always stood by her word … you can't assume the police came here for your son when she gave you her word that she wasn't going to call the police on him!
At this point, Katagiri-san and the police chief came across the scene … the police chief asked if he can use a meeting room, and Katagiri-san agreed and showed him the way personally
Concerned, Katagiri-san asks: What happened here?
Akemi Nakano ran to him and said: I apologize that my clients did such horrible thing in your office!
Katagiri: It's not your fault … you're not responsible for your client's actions … they are adults, they need to be accountable for their actions! …( he walks towards his lawyers) and demanded: Tell me what happened
Wanting to leave, Saena shuts any possible argument saying: Nothing worth discussing!
Kioshi: We will take our leave … let's go mom!
Nanami- obāchan: what a weak women … go die in a ditch you lawless creature!
Angry, Todoh-san stresses: Stop right there! … you think I will allow you to go, after what you just did?!
Feeling Defeated, Saena said weakly: let them go … I really don't care … the longer they stay the worse it will get!
Katagiri comes closer and sees the Saena's face, and says firmly: Todoh, Take her to the hospital, I will handle it from here!
Todoh-san helps Saena stand up and held her close to himself, so he can keep pressure on her injury and says: You are free to assume anything, but to harm her because of your baseless assumption is unacceptable … Katagiri-san … don't let this old women off the hook! … Nakano-san … you saw this whole scene unfold, so I hope you can give your statement as a witness!
Akemi Nakano: I will!
Saena felt even more dizzy … so she held onto Todoh-san tightly
Kioshi didn't like that … so he went out of his way to let Todoh-san know how he felt, saying: Stop touching her … if you're not together, then let her go! … she's not your women!
Todoh-san: Shut the hell up, will you … she's injured … so why don't you mind your own business! … you have no right to act this way!
Nanami- obāchan: She was my son's Ex and the mother of his child … so he has every right to tell other men not to touch her!
Todoh-san decided to ignore them and helped Saena out to his car … as he was supporting her, through the backdoor and parking lot, Saena became weaker, and had no energy to move
Anna who tried to leave earlier came back since she realized that her husband had her phone charging in the car … she wanted to get her phone and leave at once … but as she came closer, she saw Todoh supporting Saena to his car … her face was covered with blood, and looked pale … Anna couldn't help but think that her mother-in-law might be involved … so she ran towards them and asked: Are you ok? … Can I be of any help?
Saena looked at Anna but didn't say anything … she felt too weak and disoriented
Originally, Todoh-san was aiming to call a coworker for help, because he couldn't drive and put pressure on her injury at the same time … but, since he didn't want to waste time, he said: If you're willing to help, can you put pressure on the wound as I drive to a nearby hospital?
Anna: sure .. I don't mind … ( she helped Saena sit in the back seat, and sat beside her … putting pressure on the wound)
Saena closed her eyes and tried to breath deep breaths to compose herself
Todoh-san: Thank you … Miyasaki-san!
Anna: Please Call me Anna!
Kioshi saw his wife ride Todoh-san's car, and felt extremely angry … he however couldn't run or follow them because the police chief asked them to come to the situation with him.
Katagiri and Nakano followed the police car to the situation to discuss the possible charges against Nanami
(In the Emergency Room)
Todoh and Anna sat down in the waiting room, while the doctor was working on Saena … They gave her some liquids to help with her dizziness and started stitching her wound
Anna: So this was my mother-in-law's doing?
Todoh: Your husband apologized on her behalf, since she wasn't willing to say sorry herself
Anna: Of Corse not … she will do whatever she thinks is right, even if she's 100% wrong!
Todoh: Let me ask you something!
Anna: Go ahead!
Todoh: Are you ok? … you seemed quite upset for the way you were treated … she said some very upsetting things!
Anna: I'm used to it … she's isn't considerate at all … to be honest, this is the worse she ever treated me … she often said things that sounded like insults, but … they aren't really insult, unless you have context
Todoh: I get it … she would say snide things, that most people don't really consider insults, but they hurt you personally, because you know what she's up to!
Anna: Yes … She often does that when were alone … but this is not really the first time she insulted me in front of him … since we came here to Japan, she has become merciless!
Todoh: I mean … you just lost another pregnancy, shouldn't she be more supportive?
Anna: She was never really supportive … the first time around, she was disappointed, … for the second time, she was frustrated with me, and now, she says I'm faulty … although it's not something I can control!
Todoh: I am really sorry to hear that … and again … I'm sorry for your loss!
Anna: Thank you!
Todoh: Your strong … don't let her get under your skin … people like her are the worst … I'm sorry you have to deal with such women … you have no choice, do you?
Anna: Not really … I'm not willing to get divorced … not only for the kids … but, despite what he did, I still …. Love him … don't get me wrong, I am disappointed in him … angry with him … and I'm not sure how our relationship will be like going forward, but I don't want to separate, and more importantly … the boys … I want them to grow in a normal family, no matter who complicated it might be!
Todoh: That's understandable … I won't judge you … I just hope your life becomes easier and I wish you all the luck!
Anna: Thanks … I appreciate it … and again … I'm sorry about how the meeting went, I really hope she isn't too affected by it!
Todoh: I won't know until she regain her composure … she's a difficult women to understand for the most part!
Anna: So you've known each other for a long time, I can assume?
Todoh: Yes … We worked together, two years prior to her meeting that guy … so collectively, I've known her for over 20 years
Anna: I hope this is not an intrusion … you can avoid answering if you'd like … but do you like her?
Todoh confesses: I love her … she just doesn't see it … and since she was hurt a long time ago, she doesn't seem interested in entering a relationship … so I just support her the best I can as a friend … coworker maybe!
Anna: That's quite the dedication … I mean isn't it difficult?
Todoh: Holding my feeling and not letting her know?
Anna: Yeah
Todoh: I'm used to it … call me sadistic all you want, but I enjoy the chase … I love complicated women … and she's the women I want … but the more she overlooks my feeling, the more exciting it gets!
Anna: That's odd … most people would be hurt!
Todoh: It's complicated to explain … but that's me!
Anna: Your weird … but not in a bad way … a good man always respects people and doesn't force their opinions or feelings on them … so I respect you for that
Todoh smiles and says: Thank you
Anna: I think it's cool that you and her daughter get along … it's a good thing right ?
Todoh: Kyoko-chan is an amazing girl … extremely smart … just like her mother … and although I had a difficult time with the fact she's his kid … she's important to me, because she's Mogami's daughter … and honestly … she's a very respectful girl, so I respect her dearly! … she's also an amazing cook!
Anna: ah, I believe it was mentioned cooking was a hobby of hers on the agency site … I personally think that's amazing! … not many people her age learn how to cook!
Todoh: Kyoko-chan learned a lot from Fuwa-san and the restaurant she worked at …it's true, she enjoys and considers it a hobby, I would say she excels at it … Mogami told me that she goes above and beyond to prefect something … which I can say Mogami also does, especially when it comes to her job as a lawyer!
Anna: I guess that's something found in a lot of lawyers then, my father himself enjoys working on his skills and perfecting them … especially his job as a lawyer!
Surprised, Todoh laughs and says: Your father is a lawyer … how ironic!
Anna: I know, right?! … but it makes sense why my husband was terrified of him when they first met!
Todoh: Does he have a good relationship with your father?
Anna: For the most part, they agree to disagree on different matters, I would say I am closer to his father, then he is to mine … as for mothers … he does get along with my mother … but his mother … not so really !
Todoh: I bet she takes the role of the evil mother-in-law seriously!
Anna: Yeah … true … if there was an award for that, she would be nominated for sure!
Todoh: she won't win?
Anna: I wouldn't say she would … since I've heard worse from a friend who recently got divorced because of her mother in law … so that person would be a winner for sure
Todoh: Make sure those two don't meet … you don't want someone to learn other ways to hurt you! … Good luck to you for real!
After receiving four stitched, Saena thanked the doctor and left the room, she saw Todoh and Anna sitting together, so she walked up to them and said : you two sure seem to get along!
Calmly, Todoh stands up and asks: Mogami … are you alright now? … what did the doctor say?!
Saena: Four stitches .. I need to be back in two weeks to remove them … that's about it!
Anna: I'm so sorry for what happened!
Saena: It's not your fault … so you don't need to apologize to me!
Todoh looks at Saena without saying anything … he was sure that Saena was suffering … she was just putting up a brave face
Saena looked at him in return and asked: What ?! … oh that … the doctor said the swelling will go in 24 to 48 hours … nothing to worry about!
Todoh: I see … do you need to head to the pharmacy?
Saena: I can do that later!
Todoh: let's go then …. Anna-san … To thank you for your help, will you let me drive you to where you need to go?
Anna: The boys are probably waiting for my at the Arcades … I got them to email me the address, but I don't have my phone on me
Todoh gives her his phone and says: you can check your email with this … if you don't mind!
Anna: Thank you!
They all walk back to the car, and got in, Todoh in the driver seat, and the two ladies in the back
Saena stayed quite for most of the ride … she stared out of the window and tried to keep herself composed … sure she kept a brave face, but all those insults found a way to get to her when it was all over … above all, she got injured, and she couldn't figure out a way to keep it a secret from Kyoko.
On the way to the arcades, there was traffic, and they got stuck in the middle of it
Todoh kept glances back at Saena, who was quite … didn't interact much with either of them, and he felt like she was slowly slipping away … he knew that she had a history of blocking people when she's upset and unable to control the situation.
Saena noticed that Todoh-san was looking at her from time to time, so she said: If you have something to say, then say it!
Todoh: There is a better place and time for what I want to say!
Saena: ….
Todoh looks at his phone and hands it to Saena, saying: It's Katagiri-san … answer it for me please!
Answering, Saena says: Hello, This is Mogami …. He is driving right now … Yes, everything will be Ok … why? … I'm fine! …. Your honestly treating me like a fragile vase … I don't need a break! … I understand … charges? … No thanks, I won't play her game! … yes, Just let her go with a warning … what do you recommend I do? … Yes That's exactly what I think … understood … I will see you later then! …. ( she hangs up and returns the phone to Todoh)
Upset, Todoh asks: you're not pressing charges against her?!
Saena: She's trying to provoke me and force me to go that route … I won't let her!
Todoh: why do you think she's provoking you?
Saena: Katagiri-san said he heard her saying she is confident I would press charges, … she was asking the police to wait for my decision, to show them how Evil I really am!
Todoh: Well, is Katagiri-san on the same page?
Saena: Yes, he believes that going after her legally will only cause me more trouble … so he recommended against it!
Todoh: I would personally press charges if I were you … I'm confident she will cause trouble either way … so I would punish her for what she did … but I do understand why you wouldn't!
Annoyed, Saena sarcastically asked: because I'm too nice?
Todoh: Well, you are too nice sometimes … but that's not it … you would need to go to the police and give your statement … and that's the last thing you want to do right now!
Saena: I just want to get back to work!
Todoh: But … Katagiri-san told you to take a break, didn't he?! … you should just listen to him!
Saena: How am I going to distract myself, without work?
Todoh-san: Mogami … Do you think you can focus on work, after what happened?
Saena: Am I supposed to go home & do nothing … I don't even have my car, I can't just drive somewhere and disappear for the day!
Todoh-san: Why would you want to disappear?!
Saena: Like I can go home like this … look at me face … how am I going to explain this without telling her what happened?! … I won't able to keep my word about not sabotaging the meeting and effecting her decision!
Todoh-san: That women should have thought twice before assaulting you … you have no reason to hide it!
Saena: Think Again …. I can't tell her about this whole meeting until I get the green light!
Todoh-san: ok … we'll think of something … so just calm down!
Anna: I'm sorry, but can I ask?
Saena looked at Anna .. and nodded her head
Todoh-san: Go ahead!
Anna: The reason why you're not telling your daughter is because the job she is doing right now is dangerous, and needs her to be fully concentrated, right?
Saena: You can say that!
Todoh-san: Although I doubt Kyoko will mess up, because she's fully capable of perfecting her scenes, … we are sure some distractions might cause her harm!
Anna: Makes sense … that's why you are waiting for the right time to tell her
Looking out the window again, Saena says: There is really no right time to tell her … I don't even know how she will react this time … after how she reacted that way with that kid … I have no confidence I can control the situation!
Todoh-san: She's not impulsive … but her reaction can be unpredictable … since it's a relatively new topic!
Saena: Well … you didn't see the hell she unleashed on that kid … even though that kid wasn't too wrong about me … she still didn't handle hearing him slander me like that!
Todoh-san: Mogami … that kid doesn't know you … he's just a spoiled brat who doesn't respect anyone … Kyoko has every right to be angry at him!
Saena: He saw how I treated her … he's not wrong about many thing … I even question why she cares to defend me … when I was the one who …..
Todoh-san interrupted her saying: If that kid cared enough … he wouldn't have treated her that way … he knew how she felt … and still treated her like crap … there is a huge difference between people who want to change … and people who are spoiled and selfish!
Saena: Change? … I'm no longer confident I can treat her better … I gave her the cold shoulder when I first met him … how do you think I will treat her this time … after all this?
Todoh-san: I let her know that you had trouble with work last time … it's not so different this time around!
Saena: I disagree!
Todoh-san: we will talk about this later … for now … just think about it thoroughly … maybe call Kyoko-chan's boss and let him know what happened in the meeting, he should be able to give some good advice!
Saena: I don't feel like to talking to anyone right now! … I will call him later!
Todoh-san: Do as you wish! … but stay positive … because I assure you … I will protect you and Kyoko-chan for them … I promise!
Saena looked out the window and said: you did more than enough today … but, thank you!
Todoh-san wanted to say otherwise … but choose to postpone that, and just said: All I did was my job as a lawyer, a coworker, and mostly a close friend!
Saena looked at him and gave him a nod … then looked out of the window again … a few minutes later she closed her eyes to rest her mind from thinking too much … looking out the window did not help … all she saw were men holding their daughter … one man was walking with his little girl, another had his daughter hanging on his back as he ran through the park, they passed by while still in traffic.
Almost half an hour later, they managed to arrive at the Arcades where Hiroki ran out as soon he saw his mother step out of a car
Hiroki: Mom!
Anna: Hiroki … what are you doing out here?
Hiroki: I was waiting for you … dad just left, he said that we should wait for you and gave me your phone, which you left with him!
Anna: It was charging in the car … I didn't get a chance to take it before I left
Hiroki: But, why did you leave without dad and grandma? …. Did she something to you again?!
Anna: Hiroki … just let it go, ok? … it's a business between adults … ok?
Hiroki: I get it … I just don't like that she's treating you like that … it's not fair!
Anna: I will be fine … it's just that we disagree on a few things … and I needed some alone time to think!
Hiroki looked at the car she existed from and asked : Who are they?
Anna looked at Todoh and bowed to him, letting him know she is thankful once again
Todoh, left as soon as Anna stood back up … he waved as he drove away
Hiroki thought to himself ( why was mom with those two strangers?)
Anna: let's go in … your brothers are probably waiting!
Hiroki: You won't answer me?
Anna: Not now … maybe later … ok?
Hiroki: alright … let's go … Hayato and Hokuto are starving … they won't stop complaining!
Anna: Let's go eat something good then … before we head back to the hotel!
Hiroki: ok!
(In Todoh's car)
Todoh: She's a good person, isn't she!
Saena nodded in agreement, then said: and a good mother at that!
Todoh-san had a lot of things that he wanted to say … but he didn't know if it was the right time for it, so he nodded and drove off to his next destination
A little while later … they entered a familiar street
Saena: where are you heading? … my place is in the opposite direction!
Todoh-san: I won't risk bringing you home, while not knowing Kyoko-chan's schedule for the day!
Saena: she won't be home until later tonight!
Todoh-san: I won't gamble with the chances … just wait until we get there!
Saena sighed and looked out the window again … she was in no mood to argue
After around 10 minutes, Todoh-san parked the car in the garage and said: let's go!
Saena, who never been to Todoh's place was confused, so she asked: why are we here?
Todoh-san: Just come with me, will you?!
Worried, and nervous, Saena looked at him and followed him quietly
After he reached his apartment, Todoh-san open the door and let Saena in … they removed their shoes as a courtesy to their traditions … Todoh took Saena's hand and walked towards a closed door in his apartment
Saena became extremely nervous … she figured that Todoh had feelings for her in the past few day, and she was worried that he would do something to her, … as much as she trusted him not to do anything, the situation she was in right now, could only lead her to think in such way … so she wiggled her hand trying to pull her hand out of his grip and asked: why are we here?
Todoh-san held her wrist firmly and opened the door to a bedroom
Terrified, Saena raised her voice, asking: What are you thinking?
Todoh-san looked at here and realized that she had the wrong idea … so he calmly said: you can have this room for now … it's the guest bedroom! … I brought you here so you can relax and get some rest … it's the only place I can provide where you can let loose!
Still Worried, Saena asked: let loose? … why … can't we just go to work?!
Todoh-san: Katagiri-san ordered me to keep you out of work for today … you need to explore your emotions and figure out how to deal with them before you see Kyoko-chan again … trust me … this place is safe … you can lock the door if you'd like … I won't bother you!
Confused, Saena asked: why? … why are you doing this?!
Todoh-san: Because I care! … I care about you and about Kyoko-chan … you two matter to me, and if I can help, I will … this is my way to help manage damage control after that meeting!
Saena looked at him … then walked towards the bed and sat down and said: How are you going to manage this damage control?
Todoh-san entered the bedroom and said: you can let loose of all those feelings your trying to compress inside … let it all out … cry it out if you need to! … I will leave and close the door to give you all the privacy you need … and when you're ready, I will be waiting for you out there, ok?
Uneasy, Saena declared: I can't cry here!
Todoh-san confidently countered: I will be watching TV!
Saena understood the his signal … watching tv meant that he will have noise to cover anything… so that she can comfortably cry without worrying about him listening to her venting her feelings
He continued: I will look over some papers while I'm at it … don't worry about me … I will give you all the space you need!
Blushing, Saena felt a weird sensation in her chest … she was touched that he was very understanding to her situation and gave her the space she needs … not only that, but he was also considerate to her feelings and gave her a place where she can both vent her feelings and relax
Todoh-san: If you need anything, just let me know ( he left the room and closed the door behind himself … he walked away to the living room open the TV and increased the volume … then he sat down on the couch and clinched his fest … thinking ( I couldn't protect her from that monster … damn it!)
Saena rested on the bed and started remembering how that meeting went … she couldn't remember the last time she heard so many insults at once … she did witness a divorced women cursing her ex-husband for leaving her and her son behind … but she never faced someone who came straight at her with so many insult … she thought ( I assumed nothing can shake me … but that was too much … I don't know how to react at all … how should I deal with this?! )
Her tears got the best of her the moment she heard the TV turn on … she let loose and start crying to vent all her pain out … she cried to her heart's content … she hated being vilified for No reason … she accepted that she wasn't a good mother to Kyoko … but she was blamed and insulted for something she had no control over and that hurt her a lot
Todoh-san could hear Saena's crying over the Tv … but he didn't mind … He wanted her to vent all those feelings out and he pretended that he couldn't hear her and continued working on his papers
Over an hour later, the crying stopped completely
Todoh-san got up and walked around his apartment … he couldn't hear anything anymore, so he figured she might have fell asleep, so he smiled and walked away …. He went back the living room and called Katagiri and asked him about a few things including why the police requested meeting him and Saena
(In Takarada's office)
Takarada: Ruto …. Has Mogami-san called?
Ruto: No Sir … not yet!
Takarada: I wonder if their still in the meeting
Ruto: I wouldn't assume so … it's been hours since it's started … maybe something happened that prevented her from calling
Takarada: I mean … she never promised to call once the meeting ended … it's probably just me!
Ruto: what do you want to do?
Takarada: If she doesn't call by noon tomorrow … I will go and meet her
Ruto: understood!
(In Saena Apartment)
Kyoko unlocked the door and entered the apartment … she was exhausted after a long day of filming … she successfully completed all her scenes and even managed to film a few additional ones.
Kyoko noticed that her mother's shoes weren't there, so she assumed her mother wasn't back from work yet, and wondered loudly: is she working late today? … or maybe Todoh-san isn't done with his work, and she's waiting on him
She looked around because she felt something ominous, but couldn't put her finger on what it is … but she was soon distracted by a phone call
(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)
Kioshi sat down in his mother's room after she called him to come
Nanami- obāchan: It's ready … you can come now!
Kioshi: what is it?
Nanami- obāchan: come and see!
Kioshi got up and walked towards his mother who was sitting while looking at two computer screens and asked: what is this setup?
Nanami- obāchan: how many times do I have to tell you to come and see for yourself?
Kioshi sighed and walked closer nervously … he was at odds with his mother after she assaulted Saena, he was worried she might get some criminal charges, but was relieved she left with just a warning … he looked at one of the screens and saw Kyoko answering a phone call
Nanami- obāchan: Now we can see if that women will sabotage your chances or not!
Worried, Kioshi asks: isn't this illegal? … Mom please … this is not ok!
Nanami- obāchan: Do you want to see your daughter or not?!
Kioshi: I do … but this isn't the right way to go about it …besides, she promised she wouldn't sabotage anything … and you asked for a recording … what's the point if you already planned this!
Nanami- obāchan: I wasn't sure they were going to put camera today or not … they needed both mother and daughter out to do as I asked … it seems injuring that women bought them enough time to put all the cameras I requested!
Kioshi: how many cameras did you ask for?
Nanami- obāchan: 2 in the living room, 2 in the kitchen and at least one in the bedroom, I need to make sure that slut isn't bringing men home and corrupting my granddaughter!
Kioshi: Mom! … first this isn't legal … your invading her privacy … second, stop calling her names, it doesn't benefit anyone … third …
Nanami- obāchan interrupted him saying: nothing will happen if she doesn't know about them
Kioshi: it's still not ok!
Nanami- obāchan: what not ok is that she isn't allowing you to meet her … she sure know how to get the girl to act in the way she desires …. And I can prove it using those cameras!
Kioshi: I don't want to be a part of this !
Nanami- obāchan: it's your lose … you won't be able to see your daughter then
Kioshi was conflicted … he really wanted to see Kyoko … but, in the same time he knew what his mother was doing is wrong … he took a few steps back and thought about the pros and cons of this idea
Nanami- obāchan unplugged the headphone, so her son can hear what is being said
Kioshi looked at the screen and watched his daughter talk on the phone with her friend
(In Saena Apartment)
Kyoko: Moko-san … ah … I can hear you now … what happened?
Kanae: I was probably in an area with a weak service … I'm on my way home
Kyoko: I see
Kanae: I heard you were asking for me yesterday!
Kyoko: I was just wondering if you came … I thought we could talk, you know ...
Kanae: yeah … let's switch to English … the more practice the better!
( English)
Kyoko: Sure thing!
Kanae: I have a question!
Kyoko: Sure … go ahead!
Kanae: you and Tsuraga-san … what changed?!
Kyoko: what do you mean?
Kanae: Don't play dump … you obviously changed the way you speak with him … you were really close at the Karaoke … and you two were even whispering!
Kyoko: Not much changed though … We talked and got to know each other a little better, so we are no longer as awkward as we were before!
Suspicious, Kanae asked: that's it?
Kyoko: Yes … I promise … if anything between us really changed, you'd by the first to know … or at least among the first people to know!
Kanae: fine … I trust you to tell me … were best friends after all!
Kyoko: yes … your my best friend in the whole wide world!
Kanae: clearly … even after you sang that song with Tsuraga-san!
Kyoko: Moko-san … it's just a song … I won't sing it again … so please … don't get upset with me!
Kanae: I'm just teasing … don't go all depressed on me … I can't handle seeing you like that!
Happy, Kyoko says: Moko … your such a good friend!
Kanae: I doubt it … anyway … how was work today … you told me you had an on-location filming today!
Kyoko: It went great … we finished early … so we shoot a few extra scenes, and still managed to come home early … but I'm surprised my mom isn't home yet … she's never this late!
Kanae: You trained for so long … I would expect you to do it perfectly from the start … so I'm not surprised there … but, what about your mom … are you worried?
Kyoko: Not too much … I mean … her car isn't working right now, so I'm sure she's with Todoh-san right now … I'm just worried he's stuck at work and she's stuck waiting around
Kanae: isn't your mother a workaholic as well?
Kyoko: she is … maybe she didn't pay much attention to the time, because I told her I would be out for long today … I wonder If I should call!
Kanae: I'm just happy you two are getting along!
Kyoko: We are … ah … Moko-san … can I speak to you about something!
Kanae: is it the same topic you wanted to talk to me about, yesterday?
Kyoko: Yes … you mentioned in the hospital that I should talk to you about things like that, and I'm trying to do that!
Kanae: Did something happen at school? … didn't you move to your original grade and no longer in class with that girl?
Kyoko: yes … However, a new girl joined my new class and made friends with 3 others … and for some reason they started bullying me … I don't remember if I ever offended them … but they really bothered me yesterday!
Kanae: And, … how did you deal with them?
Kyoko: I just ignored them for the most part … I don't have friends in class yet, so I have no one to by my ally!
Kanae: Ignore those idiots … I get it … when no one backs you up, you feel like the whole world is coming together against you!
Kyoko: That's how I felt … my mom proposed that she can talk to the school …
Kanae: Don't allow that … you don't want to be considered weak … nothing good happens when parents get involved … I get that she's trying to help … but high school is your war alone … you need to figure it out without her personally getting involved … do you understand?!
Kyoko: Yes … Yashiro-san told me the same thing!
Kanae: what about Tsuraga-san … what did he say?
Kyoko: I didn't tell him about it, yet … I was going to call him later about it!
Kanae was happy Kyoko told her before Ren … and smiled victoriously
Kyoko continued: I don't really want to tell him to be honest!
Surprised, Kanae asked: why?
Kyoko: I mean they bullied me because I acted with him in "Dark Moon" … and because I'm somehow close to him … I don't want him to think he's the blame for what happened!
Kanae: worthless idiots … what the hell is wrong with them … He doesn't belong to them, and he is free to be friends with whoever he wants … I hate people like that … it's unfortunate we have to deal with such people in this industry
Kyoko: Yeah …
Kanae: well then … why don't you just keep him in the dark about it … he doesn't need to know
Kyoko: I can't do that!
Kanae: Why not?
Kyoko: because he was there when Yashiro-san picked me up from school … he saw that I was upset about something … I can't just pretend that didn't happened!
Kanae: I see … tough luck!
Kyoko: You know … Kajima-san said a few things that bothered Tsuraga-san … and he called me and apologized that he didn't deal with him then and there … in fear of making a scene … just how am I supposed to tell him 4 girls ganged up on me and bullied me because of him and that jerk!
Kanae: That jerk … do you mean your ex-childhood friend?
Kyoko: Yes … They even plan to ask that girl about me and him … like … what is there to know … I just don't want to be linked to him anymore!
Kanae: I just want to go to your class and rip those girls apart!
Kyoko: Moko-san?! …. I'm grateful you want to stand by me … but violence is never the answer!
Kanae: I know … I'm just venting … ah … I got to go, someone is calling me and I need to take the call!
Kyoko: That's alright … let's talk later then!
Kanae: alright … stay strong … we'll talk soon!
Kyoko: alright … good night!
Kanae: Good night!
After Kyoko ended the call, she got up and got a change of clothes … and went in to take a shower … after finishing her shower, she returned to the living room but her mother was still not back
Kyoko looked at the time and it was already 10 pm … she became a little worried … but she's didn't want to take any unnecessary actions … not yet at least
(In Todoh's apartment)
A little before it turned 10 … Saena finally woke up … she still felt tired … both physically and mentally, but she felt a little better … she looked around and realized that she was still in the guest room … she checked her wrist watch to see the time and thought ( I should head home soon, Kyoko should get back soon enough!)
She opens the door and slowly exists the room, and called: Todoh-san? …. ( she reached the living room where she can hear the TV on the news channel … same channel as before … and walked closer)
She sees Todoh-san asleep on the couch with papers in hand … it looked like he dozed off while working … he looked tired … so she looked around for something to cover him
Just then, Todoh-san suddenly got up and shook his head saying: I can't sleep now … I need to finish this soon!
Saena looked at him and wondered what case is he working on currently … he seemed like he was captivated by his case
Todoh-san got up to get another cup of coffee, but stopped as he saw Saena standing around awkwardly and asked: how are you feeling now?
Saena: I feel a little better … Thank you for giving me the space I needed!
Todoh-san: Let's eat then!
Saena: it's really late … I should head home!
Todoh-san: Not before you get some food in your system … we can discuss a few things while we have our meal!
Saena: like?
Todoh-san: take a seat! … ( he grabbed the food that was stored in the oven to keep it warm) and said: I got some an hour ago … it might be cold … I can heat it if you'd like!
Saena takes the dish and said: No need … I don't have a specific preference for food temperature … thank you!
Todoh-san: No problem … let's eat then!
They start eating their food silently
Saena breaks the silence: so … what do you want to talk about?
Todoh-san: How are you going to deal with Kyoko?
Saena: Since the swelling didn't go … my best option is to avoid her as much as possible!
Todoh-san: How are you going to do that without hurting her?
Saena: I don't plan to ignore her … I just can't let her see this … If she sees me like this, she might want an explanation … and I can't give her one without discussing what happened … and that will only cause her to have a negative opinion of them
Todoh-san: Since you gave them your word, I can't expect you to throw that out and tell her everything … although that would be something I would do … I don't want to overstep my position here … so I will respect your decision!
Saena: I thought for a second … why should I keep my word, if she was the one that went overboard and injured me? … but … after all, I would rather keep my word, because if I don't then they can use that as leverage by calling me untrustworthy and use it against me!
Todoh-san: That women already doesn't trust you, but it sure won't help you if you didn't keep your word … for now … our objective is clear and Kyoko has the steering wheel … she will have the final decision, and they have 0 chances to use the law against us … what we need to focus on right now, is how and when should we deliver the information to Kyoko
Saena: I glad that we got our point across … and didn't let them sway us to do things their way
Todoh-san: I fear that that women still has some tricks under her sleeves, but all we can do is be careful!
Saena: This is going to be hell … I just know it!
Todoh-san sighed and said: you can depend on me … I will always be on your side!
Saena: Thank you … I'm really grateful to you!
They finished their meal and cleaned up after themselves … by that time, it was almost 11 pm
Todoh-san: let's go?
Saena: can I ask you a favor?
Todoh-san: anything!
Saena: Can you pick me up early tomorrow … if I use work as an excuse … she won't be hurt by my avoidance … right?!
Todoh-san: Taking it step by step, … that's not a bad Idea! … I will come as early as I can!
Saena checked her phone for the first time … she wanted to send a massage to Kyoko, but noticed that Kyoko has called her twice in the past hour … and left a few text messages
Todoh-san: I put your phone on silent, so it won't disturb you … I apologize if I overstepped!
Saena: Don't worry about it … it looks like she came home early … I guess I should just return and see how it goes!
Todoh-san: alright … let's go!
An 11 minute drive was the distance between Saena's place and Todoh's place by car … they arrived at around 11: 12 pm
Saena became nervous as she came closer to her apartment … she wanted to hid the injury … and it took her a few minutes in the car checking how she looked in the mirror … she even changed her hair style to hide the swelling as best as she could
She entered her apartment and let Todoh in as well ..he promised that he will try to distract Kyoko so Saena can successfully avoid hurting her daughter … she trusted Todoh to be the best middle man between them
Todoh walked in and said: it looks like she was waiting for you … she's asleep on the couch
Saena: I told her not to sleep there … she fell off the other day!
Todoh-san smiled and said: you should wake her and walk her to bed then … she will be sleepy, she won't notice anything!
Saena tried to wake Kyoko up by calling her name and slightly shaking her shoulder, but Kyoko was so exhausted she didn't respond or even make any movements!
Todoh-san: it can't be helped … she must have been tried after a long day at work … do you mind if I carry her to bed? … since you seem against her sleeping on the couch for the night!
Saena: I don't want her to fall and get hurt … but I'm not sure she would be comfortable with that!
Todoh-san: I will apologize later … ( he scoops Kyoko slowly and held her carefully) … then he asks: can you lead the way?
Saena nodded and walked towards the bedroom, she opened the door, and walked to Kyoko's side of the bed and removed the blanket … allowing Todoh to lay her on the pillow and covered her … she looked at Kyoko as she snuggled the pillows as she changed her sleeping position
Todoh-san left the bedroom and got ready to leave
Saena walked out behand him and bowed saying: thank you for today!
Todoh-san: you don't have to be so polite with me … you know?
Saena: I know … it's just …
Todoh: don't worry about it … I understand!
Saena smiled awkwardly and nodded her head
Todoh: I'm glad she's asleep, you don't have to worry about exposing your injury for now
Saena: yeah … I'm hopeful the swelling will at least decrease overnight, if not, I will make sure I leave before she wakes up tomorrow morning
Joking, Todoh says: Maybe I should sleep here tonight!
Shocked, Saena said: what?!
Todoh: just like that time, when I waited all night for your response … a car isn't comfortable, but I can sleep anywhere, really!
Saena: your joking, right?
Todoh: I want to make sure I will be there when you leave tomorrow morning … if I have to sleep in my car in order to ensure that, I would!
Saena felt very awkward, she didn't know how to deal with him so she looked at him with a troubled expression
Todoh: I will support you two in any way possible! … and if you want to hide that injury, I will do anything to help you do so!
Saena frowned knowing that he isn't joking, he might actually sleep in his car, so she said: You should really head home! … I don't think it's safe sleeping in a car … I apologize for that time, so please, don't trouble me like that!
Todoh: Don't worry, I won't trouble you … I should get going … but, if you need anything, … I'm just one phone call away! … you can depend on me!
Saena looked away and tried to compose herself, her heart was racing, … so she quickly blurted out: I hate you!
Surprised, Todoh looked at her without saying anything, he though ( perhaps I went overboard?)
Saena half-heartedly repeated: I hate you ….
Todoh looked down unsure how to react to that
Saena continued: you always say the things I need to hear … especially today … it pisses me off honestly!
Todoh: Oh … that's great to hear … I'll make sure I keep doing that!
Saena: do you want me to hate you even more?!
Todoh: Sure … go ahead if you can!
Saena: what is this, a challenge, … you know I never back down from a challenge!
Todoh smiled slyly and said: No, I'm just sure you don't really hate me … maybe it's just the opposite
Saena stares at him confused and flustered, she couldn't find the right words to deny anything
Feeling happy she didn't deny him, Todoh decided to stop and said: I will get going then … I should head home now so I can come and pick you up early tomorrow morning!
Saena nodes to him and sees him out … she bids him goodbye and locks the door … and head back to the bedroom, to change and get ready for bad … if she wanted to leave early, she needed to wake up before Kyoko … and she was determined that she will keep her word but in the same time protect and avoid hurting Kyoko
(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)
Kioshi couldn't resisting watching his daughter, although he was against the idea, he thought that it was his best chance to learn a few things about her … to aid him when and if he meet's her in the near future!
Nanami- obāchan: where did that women go … is she just going to let my granddaughter sleep on the couch like that … what a heartless monster!
Kioshi: mom please … just stop calling her names … you assaulted her … maybe she's still in the hospital!
Nanami- obāchan: her boss called her and he informed the police she's out … if she's back there again, she's probably faking it!
Kioshi: Mom please!
Nanami- obāchan: oh … she's back …. Finally!
Kioshi saw Todoh enter the apartment with Saena and he felt very uncomfortable … he thought (Why is he with her all the time … if they aren't together … then he should keep his distance!)
Nanami- obāchan: She is really trying to replace you with this jerk!
Kioshi got really upset when he saw Todoh carrying Kyoko from the couch to the bed … he really didn't like that Todoh was this close to his Ex and his daughter!
Nanami- obāchan: Wait … the girl sleeps with her mother in the same bed … isn't she old enough to have her own room … what a cheap bitch … can't she afford a bigger apartment?
Kioshi: Mom … We know nothing about them and their life style … besides, Kyoko just moved in with her mother a short while ago … I told you she lived with some old couple working in a restaurant … perhaps her mother lived alone here, which makes sense why the place is enough for one person!
Nanami- obāchan: We are going to that restaurant tomorrow and talking to the owners, we need to get the information we need to destroy this lousy mother!
Kioshi: We won't get much, the Okami of that place said she didn't know much about Kyoko, and her husband barely talks!
Nanami- obāchan: I have a way to make people talk … trust me!
Kioshi: I can't trust you with that, after what you did today!
Nanami- obāchan: you won't understand until you see the results, … just follow my lead like you always did … like a good son … understood?
Kioshi: I have a bad feeling about this … please Mom … let's just be patient!
Nanami- obāchan: No … time is against us you idiot! … the more time they have … the less chance we get!
Kioshi stayed silent … he wasn't sure how to react, so he just said: I'm going to bed ! … Good Night!
Nanami- obāchan: Alright … see you bright and early tomorrow … We have a lot of things to do!
Kioshi nodded silently and left
Nanami- obāchan: why is he so conflicted, he just has to trust me to bring him and his daughter together … his wife is only in the way! … and so is this jerk! ( looking at Todoh as he left)
She pressed record so she can't see what she could miss until the next morning … then got up and went to bed
(The next morning- In Saena's apartment)
Saena woke up early … she quickly got up, freshened up, went to the kitchen to cook something quick for breakfast … she covered Kyoko's breakfast and put a note one the table … and walked towards the door rushing to leave
Kyoko however, got up and went out of the bedroom calling for her
Saena stood in front of the door without facing Kyoko
Kyoko: Mom … are you leaving already?
Saena: Yes ... I have some work I need to finish!
Kyoko: What about Breakfast?
Saena: yours is ready on the table … you should washup and eat it before you head to work!
Kyoko: Ok …
Saena: By the way, Todoh-san carried you to Bed yesterday … since you slept on the couch and wouldn't get up … he asked me to apologize to you, since he wasn't sure you'd be comfortable with that
Kyoko: I don't mind … please thank him for me!
Saena: Also … He said Yesterday's lunch was Delicious … he wanted to thank you for that
Kyoko: I'm glad he liked it! … um … Mom!
Saena: yes?
Hesitating a little, Kyoko said : it's nothing … have a good day at work!
Saena: you too … (she puts on her shoes and leaves without giving Kyoko a chance to see her injury
Kyoko questioned: I wonder why she's in a hurry? … It's only 6 am … I hope everything is alright!
Kyoko went to freshen up, ate her breakfast and got ready to go to work … she had a script reading for the new movie she's appearing in with Momose-san.
Kioshi and his mother woke up early and headed to Saena's apartment, hoping to see Kyoko … they waited outside the apartment entrance and watched.
Nanami had a tablet with her that had the same application that allowed her to watch Kyoko from inside the apartment … she noticed that Saena left without giving Kyoko a chance to see the injury … and through ( That Hypocrite … I'm sure she's waiting for the right time to show her injury … so she can ruin my sons chance … I will record everything prove it for sure)
However, Kioshi was relieved that Saena kept her word despite his mother's actions … he knew that Saena was a good person and an honest person at that … so he was grateful she didn't say anything to Kyoko, … at least not yet
Nanami- obāchan: She's left the apartment … that means she's coming out soon … get down and try to bump into her by accident!
Kioshi: No way!
Nanami- obāchan: She can meet you as a stranger first and she's get to know you're a good person, … so when she learns you're her father, she will be happy about it!
Kioshi: Mom … that's insane … I won't deceive her by acting like a stranger, just to turn out to be her father … She might suspect I'm following her and forcing her to meet me … I won't risk it!
Nanami- obāchan: what a coward … I would totally do that if I was you!
Kioshi saw a car come and block the main entrance view … shortly after, Kyoko emerged out of the building and entered the car … and they were on their way
Nanami- obāchan: Follow them … Hurry!
Kioshi sighed and proceeded to trail their car … but suddenly their car took a turn and he couldn't follow them anymore because he was too late to turn after them
Nanami- obāchan: You lost them! …. Come on … Focus Kioshi! … Try to find a way to follow them again!
Kioshi: I'm not very familiar with roads here … so, I'd rather not … we probably won't catch up even if we made a U-turn!
Nanami- obāchan: Fine … go to that restaurant she use to work at … I need to talk to the owners!
Kioshi gave in, saying: As long as you don't shower them with insult … I'll be on your side … because I also want to know more about her!
They reached the Darumaya, but it was still closed, so they drove away, after deciding to come back at lunch time
(At Viride General Law Office)
At 10 am, Katagiri arrives at the office after he finished his court case early … he went straight to Todoh and Saena and said: Todoh … Mogami … I want to see you in my office, now!
-In Katagiri-san's office-
Katagiri asked Todoh to tell him everything that happened in the office, because he knew Saena was still troubled about the whole thing, and he didn't want to force her to retell the event. After he heard Todoh's side …. He asked: How are you feeling, Mogami?
Saena: Better … but not 100% … I'm sure work will help get my mind off of it
Katagiri: If you need to talk to me about anything, you know where to find me, understood?
Saena: Yes … but I'm fine … Todoh-san gave me the space I needed yesterday … Thanks to him, I was able to vent out the negative feelings … I just need time to overcome it … but thank you!
Katagiri: Your face is a bit swollen … is that normal?
Saena: Yes … they said it would go away in about 24-48 hours … besides, The swelling has decreased dramatically compared to yesterday
Katagiri: How did Kyoko react to seeing you like that?
Saena: I managed to avoid her … she is unaware of the injury!
Todoh: She was asleep when I dropped her off yesterday … and she managed to wake up early and leave before Kyoko got a proper look!
Katagiri: How long are you going to hide it and avoid her?
Saena: since the swelling decreased, I can hide the injury by changing my hairstyle, so I don't need to avoid her anymore … however, I'm not sure how I can tell her about it without breaking my promise to not sabotage how Kyoko views him!
Katagiri: Mogami, the one who injured you was his mother, telling her won't sabotage much
Saena: I would rather be safe … I am already untrustworthy … I'm sure she will take anything I say as an attack on them … The less Kyoko knows the better
Todoh: You're not untrustworthy, that women won't listen to anything because of her Ego
Katagiri: Todoh is right … she already painted a negative picture of who she thinks you are, so even if you hide it and keep your promise to them, … she will still find a negative spin on your actions
Remembering the past, Saena confessed: she will find plenty of negative things to add … I've heard from Yayoi-san via text that someone came yesterday asking about me and Kyoko!
Todoh: She hired a private investigator?
Katagiri made a mental note to talk to his sister and said: I will handle the situation in Kyoto … you just find a time to tell her soon, so you can get this over with, alright?
Saena: I will try to talk to her this weekend, but after I make sure she's done with her dangerous stunts!
Todoh: Right, Nakano-san said she would be free in the weekend, so that would work, as long as it's safe for Kyoko-chan!
Katagiri: alright then … I will make a few calls and make sure people don't talk back home!
Saena: you're not going to threaten anyone, are you?
Katagiri: Mogami … don't worry about it … just let me work my magic!
Saena was skeptical about it, but she just nodded and stood up and said: we won't be able to control everyone though … not that's what I want either … I could care less if they investigate me … I don't have much to hide!
Todoh: Mogami, are you ok if they figure how you treated her in the past?
Saena: I can't deny it … I won't either … it's the truth, and it's true that I regret my actions back then, but … I never pretended to be a good mother to begin with … so let them know … in the end, it's Kyoko's choice, not mine!
Todoh: What if they use this information against you?
Confident, Saena answers: they will …. as long as she agrees to meet them … I'm not saying she won't change her mind and meet them, but she know's that much … nothing they can say will be news to her!
Todoh: That's true … but … are you really ok if she actually agrees to meet them?
Saena: Yes … she has every right to want to meet them and listen to their side of the story, meet her step mother, who is surely a better mother then I will ever be … and perhaps she won't be completely lonely with having three half-brothers.
Todoh: You shouldn't compare yourself to his wife … your two different people, with different lives, circumstances, and personalities … and there is a huge difference between you two, she wanted children with her husband … your situation was completely different, so it's understandable!
Katagiri: He's right … but you're not wrong either … she might be a good mother, but she's not Kyoko's mother … you are! … and Kyoko isn't lonely … she has you, friends and coworkers … a bigger family doesn't mean a member of that family will never be lonely … you will be surprised to know that the bigger the family, the more chances members of that family will feel left out and lonely at times!
Todoh: besides, sure it will be Kyoko's decision, but do you really want her to live with a man like him, and don't get me started on his mother … she's a piece of work, and if she dislikes you so much, what makes you think she'll treat Kyoko-chan any better?
Saena looks at Todoh with a surprised look, as such thought never crossed her mind, so she questions him saying: What makes you think she will treat her as bad as she treated me?! … if she wants Kyoko to take her side, she will treat her much better to ensure the results she desires!
Katagiri: Todoh is right Mogami … lets says, Kyoko chooses them, and leaves … she will still be considered your child, and if she going to put an act just to take her, she can drop her act once she got what she wanted … you dealt with such cases before, where a step mother treats their partner's child badly, … and the families in general won't accept them!
Todoh: Sure they wanted a girl … but, realistically not everyone is ok with a child born out of wedlock, … I have researched their family, and his father, the CEO of their company is known to be of strong family values, he made some comments in the past, which make it look like he won't accept Kyoko easily … let's not forget, Anna-san has parents' and they might not be ok with the whole idea either!
Katagiri: Other than that, the kids … his boys … are they going to be ok with her being their half-sister, … Some kids don't take it easily … some kids might feel betrayed by it, and they might not easily accept her, especially after knowing that their mother didn't have her.
Saena: Those are all reasonable assumptions, but … If she had 3 miscarriages, and was perhaps hoping for a girl, … besides, she's a huge fan of Kyoko, as an actress, … I wouldn't assume she would treat her badly … aside that, she seemed like a good person, I wouldn't think she will become bad because of her husband having a child before they got married … adding to that, I don't think her kids want her to suffer, so it would be safe to assume they wouldn't mind having a sister, even if they don't have the same mother
Todoh: Then, let's take Kyoko's perspective into account, she already has a negative outlook towards him … for betraying you, hurting you and causing you to react in that way towards her in the past, … don't you think she will be more upset knowing he got married and had kids of his own?
Saena: ….
Todoh continued: moreover, do you really think she will easily get along with them, and feel like she's a part of their family … they already established a family, Kyoko as a newcomer will find difficulties finding her place in that family for sure … and any rejection will cause so much pain for her !
Katagiri: We aren't saying this to make you go against them meeting her, but we want you to think of all the scenarios that Kyoko could face … you might think they are a good family … a father, mother and 3 boys … but that doesn't mean Kyoko will belong to them right away, if anything, it might take months or years for her to adjust, especially if they want to take her to America with them, … her whole life will just be flipped upside down!
Todoh: adding to that, all the legal processes they need to go through to bring her with them, that's another story on its own! … I don't care for the monetary aspect, but I'm sure it will be a huge mental toll on Kyoko-chan!
Katagiri: Mogami … she's here in Tokyo for a reason, right? … she didn't return to Kyoko because she found her calling … you told me that she wants to be an actress that can represent Japan, she can't do that else, can she?
Saena: That true … but … this just got me more worried about how I Should approach the topic!
Todoh: you don't have to worry about it too much, whatever happens I will be there to support you, and help you though it!
Katagiri: Mogami … my advice for you would be to stop thinking about it for now, until you tell her … try your best to tell her as soon as possible and with that, so you can figure the whole situation out … don't compare yourself to anyone, not his wife, or anyone else for that matter, let's focus of getting Kyoko the justice she deserves!
Saena: come to think of it, the police came yesterday, did you manage to learn any new information about the investigation?
Todoh: I called him yesterday, and I learned that the higher ups decided to change the detective in charge … the investigation itself is still where it was a week ago!
Saena: Why would he inform us of such change, does that matter?
Todoh: Yes actually, it should matter, because this might be a huge disadvantage to Kyoko's case
Katagiri: That detective in question is suspected of taking bribes and putting innocent people in jail … some of his past cases are being re-investigated as the suspects are asking for a retrial, claiming innocence
Upset, Saena asks: why would this detective take her case then?
Todoh: It's a decision from the higher up, which means there can be someone corrupted making those changes!
Katagiri: We were asked to let the Detective lead the case, in hopes they can catch him red-handed while investigating the case
Saena: Is he asking Kyoko to be his scapegoat ?! …. I won't allow that!
Todoh: Unfortunately, we can't make a change … if we request for a change, we have to have a reasonable change, and his cases being re-investigated isn't an enough reason … I looked it up, and we are pretty much stuck with him
Katagiri: So we have to proceed with caution going forward, and let her boss know about this issue, as the media tend to get involved, … we want to avoid getting any negative media coverage towards Kyoko!
Saena: So, what if he puts another innocent person in jail, the real culprit might go after her again! … that's not safe … and I won't accept it!
Katagiri: If perhaps maybe the detective was bribed to take this case, then the person who bribed might know or actually be the culprit, so we might hit two bird with one, … by not only bring the real culprit down, but that detective will go down with them as well!
Todoh: Adding to that, if the culprit did pay someone to mislead the investigation, means they won't be trying to harm her again, … as its hard enough to bribe someone secretly, once … there is no way they will take the risk to harming her again and getting away with it!
Troubled, Saena argues: However, an innocent person going to jail instead of the real criminal isn't really justice … that kind of income is unacceptable!
Todoh: I understand that … We will work together with the police office to ensure that either that detective does his job properly or that he is caught before he can do an real damage, we will not allow innocent people to go jail, so don't worry about it!
Katagiri: I have included Wataru-san to the case as well, he worked with that detective before, and knows how to deal with him properly!
Saena: So this won't harm Kyoko, right?
Todoh: There is no telling, but we should talk to her, after talking to her boss, so she can be extra careful if needed!
Unsure, Saena stresses: Can we do anything else to ensure her safety … she's already being bullied in school, and soon I will tell her about that man and his family, … adding this whole detective mess to the mix is too much
Katagiri: She's being bullied at school?
Saena: Yes … that's not the first time … apparently, she was bullied since elementary, but told no one, fearing she will just trouble everyone with her issues!
Katagiri: She really does take after you, Mogami!
Saena: I'm sure that's not a good thing!
Katagiri: In any case, your concern is reasonable … let's see what her boss says about this, and we will go from there, is that ok with you?
Saena: Yes … I will try to contact him after work
Todoh looks at his phone and says: you don't have to … he would like to meet you now!
Saena: he's here?
Todoh: The receptionist let me know that he is asking to meet you, … it's possible that he got worried since you didn't contact him about the meeting yesterday!
Katagiri: Todoh should join you … since he's your lawyer
Saena didn't argue and just got up and said: alright … we will go and talk to him
Katagiri: ok … let me know of any updates later
Saena: understood
Todoh and Saena bow down, and leave Katagiri-san's office to meet with Kyoko's boss, Takarada Lori.
(Lunch time - At Darumaya)
Kioshi and his mother returned to Darumaya restaurant at lunch time …. They entered and were greeted by Okami-san … they were seated in front of Taisho who nodded his head, and continued preparing some bento boxes
Okami-san: you came again, last time, you came with your wife!
Kioshi: Ah yes, my wife is out with our kids, they wanted to explore a different area of Tokyo, so I came here with my mother this time!
Nanami- obāchan: Nice to meet you, I heard the food here is delicious, so I'm excited to taste it
Taisho looked at Nanami and nodded, but didn't say anything
Okami-san: I see … (she hands them the menu and gives them time to choose)
Yashiro enters the restaurant and says: Okami-san … I'm here to pick up the order!
Okami-san: Yashiro-san …. Thank you for coming, you're on time, my husband is almost done … just adding the last few touches!
Yashiro: Great … I'm glad I didn't get stuck in traffic!
Okami-san: We are grateful for making an order, is this a new series Kyoko-chan is participating in?
Yashiro: Yes … Its not announced yet, so I can't give any details, but she's excited for it!
Okami-san: I am so very happy for her … I'm glad she's doing ok!
Yashiro: Yes … we all are!
Okami-san: I wonder if the culprit will be caught soon, I haven't seen anything in the news!
Yashiro: It's tough to say, but her mother and the police are working on it … I'm sure they will find them soon, … they will be punished them for their horrible actions!
Kioshi thought to himself ( so the police officer that came yesterday was related to Kyoko's case, and my mother she hindered their meeting? )
Okami-san: By the way … let Kyoko-chan know that I put some of her favorites
Yashiro: I will!
Taisho hands Yashiro a couple of boxes and says: I will help you with the rest!
Yashiro: Thank you …. ( He, along with Taisho walk to his car and loaded the Bento boxes)
Okami-san Smiles and waved as Yashiro drove away, …. She went back in with her husband and said: I'm glad she asked us personally for bento boxes, it warms my heart … she didn't forget us
Taisho smiles and nods to his wife, as he returned to his work satiation
Okami-san: ready to order?
Kioshi: Yes … I will have one meal of tradition dish
Nanami- obāchan: and I will have the Grilled fish with some soup and rice
Taisho nods and start working on their order, the restaurant just opened for lunch, so they were the first customers of the day
Kioshi: I'm surprised you remember me!
Okami-san: ah well, you came with your wife who is a foreigner … It's something new and strange, … not a bad thing … but it surprised me … also, you came rather recently
Kioshi: I guess your right … ( he laughs nervously)
Nanami- obāchan: I was personally against him marrying anyone other than Japanese, but what can I do, it's his life and his choice!
Taisho felt a weird feeling from Nanami, she was looking at them as if she was expecting them to give her what she wants, and he didn't know why
Okami-san: I thought she gained your approval?
Nanami- obāchan: eventually, she did … but she lost it recently … she's not a good daughter in law, and she stands against me every chance she could!
Kioshi: Mom, that's no true … you just don't see things in a similar fashion … and you really went overboard yesterday! … come on, let it slide!
Nanami- obāchan: only a fool would … I hate when I tell her to listen, and all she did was go against me … do you know how embarrassing it was for me?!
Taisho: she's not the one who kept showering others with insults … she just stood with what she believed was right … just let her be, ok? … I can't have you two go against each other, we are family
Okami-san felt a little awkward, so she just walked away and tried to make sure everything is clean, before more clients come
Kioshi: Can we drop the topic … that's not why we're here, is it?
Nanami- obāchan: sure … the last thing I want to talk about is your defective wife … I'm here for something better, something she can never give me!
Kioshi: She's not defective … she's suffering … a miscarriage isn't an easy thing to deal with, I'm hurt by it too, we both lost our child, not her only … ok?!
Nanami- obāchan: if she can only give you boys and miscarry the girls, she's not worthy of being your wife!
Okami-san: I would hate to interrupt, but … she gave you grandsons, you should be grateful, I myself can't have kids, so hearing you call a women who can have children, even if it's only one gender defective bothers me … if you call her defective, what am I?
Nanami- obāchan was baffled so she asks: you can't have kids? … what about your husband?
Taisho: I choose her as my wife, if she can't give me kids, then I don't want any!
Kioshi: I'm sorry to hear about your troubles
Nanami- obāchan decided to be nice, as she feared being rude may take her chances of knowing anything, so she says: I'm sorry to hear that
Okami-san: Don't worry about it … but thank you … I just hope you look at your daughter-in-law in a new light, and have a better relationship with her
Nanami- obāchan smiled and lies saying: I will try!
Taisho nods his head to them and gets back to work
Nanami- obāchan: I would like to ask you something
Okami-san kindly says: go ahead!
Nanami- obāchan: you had an employee called Mogami Kyoko, is that correct?
Taisho looks at them without answering, and thinks to himself ( this man, it's the second time he comes here and brings her up … what's his deal?!)
Okami-san: Yes, that's correct, but …. Why are you asking?
Nanami- obāchan: I would like to learn more about her!
Taisho: I'm afraid we can't help you, she was just an employee, so we don't know much, besides, we don't have a right to speak about her with strangers
Nanami- obāchan: but, we aren't strangers, we're her family!
Surprised, Okami-san: Family? … But Kyoko-chan told us, it's only her and her mother … who may you be?
Nanami- obāchan: Her mother lied to her … I'm her grandmother, and this man here, is her father!
Taisho stopped cutting the vegetables and looked at Kioshi in disbelief, he didn't see the connection between him and the girl he always considered as his own child … he was doubtful, so he sighed and got back to work without commenting
Okami-san: Her father ?! … so …. You lost contact with Mogami-san, and that's why you couldn't be in her life?
Kioshi: lost contact?
Irritated, Nanami- obāchan asks: Is that what her mother said?
Okami-san: Mogami-san told us that she lost contact with Kyoko-chan's father, which why he isn't around!
Stunned, Kioshi asks: that's all she said?
Nanami- obāchan: they won't tell you if she insulted you or not, so don't bother asking!
Okami-san: She never insulted you or anyone for that matter, … she was nothing but respectful!
Nanami- obāchan: That's surprising … she was nothing but rude to us … even though it's her fault in the end!
Kioshi: Mom, it's not her fault … it's mine … and she's wasn't being rude, please just stop … I know you dislike her, but insulting her won't solve anything!
Nanami- obāchan : She was ill-mannered … she didn't even want you to know you're the father, … and besides, she wouldn't allow you to meet her … what kind of mother is she? … she's a monster … banning my son from meeting his one and only daughter!
Okami-san felt awkward and didn't know how to react … so she looked at her husband wanting him to do or say something
Taisho: look, you can dislike her all you want, but please refrain from talking negatively about her … she was nothing but respectful to us and she never insulted in our presence … please keep us out of your issue!
Nanami- obāchan: let me ask you something, if you had a child somewhere, and the mother never told you about the child, and won't let you meet them, how would you feel?
Not wanting to add oil to fire, Taisho just answered in his own way: My wife is the only women in my life, so I can't relate with you on that issue!
Nanami- obāchan felt like he wasn't going to side with them, so she decided to go another route and asked: can you possibly help us meet her, since I heard from my son that she use to live her, you're probably close to her and possibly have a way to communicate with her, can you ask her to meet us here soon?
Taisho: I'm afraid that's not possible … if her mother won't let her meet him, there might be a reason we are unaware off, and we wouldn't like to go behind her back, after all the kindness she showed us!
Kioshi: to be fair, she never banned me to meet her … she just said that she will leave the choice to her daughter … she has yet to tell her that I'm here!
Nanami- obāchan: you can't believe that women … she probably corrupted her and told her crap about you, … she knows the answer already, she's just playing with us!
Kioshi confessed: Mom, she gave me her word that she never once insulted me, and they are a proof to that, … have some faith in her … I'm the one who deceived her, yet she doesn't talk bad about me, that's something, ok?
Taisho didn't stop working after hearing Kioshi's confession, but thought ( he deceived her? … which means he did something harmful in some way … I can't trust this man around her [ Kyoko])
Nanami- obāchan: Then explain why her lawyer was a jerk and did whatever he can to stop us from asking anything … he ruined everything!
Kioshi: I can't defend that man … I dislike like as much as you do, … I don't want him near my daughter, …. And even her mother!
Okami-san: her lawyer? … so she hired a lawyer, despite being one herself?
Kioshi: Our lawyer told us that she can hire a lawyer, since we have a case against her, and in most cases, even a lawyer would hire another lawyer to represent them!
Nanami- obāchan: I'm sure that our stupid lawyer recommended that … she seemed to be more on their side then ours, although we are the ones who hired her!
Kioshi: She was doing her job, besides … you showered the mother with insults, it's not impossible for our lawyer to stand with another lawyer against unjust insults … our lawyer did mention that she idolized Mogami-san
Nanami- obāchan: she idolized a slut … she might as well be one as well!
Okami-san was taken back be hearing such insults, she never saw one Japanese person insult another in such way, especially, over a child … she felt powerless and unsure of how to react!
Sternly, Taisho said: If you're going to keep insulting Mogami-san, then please take this conversation elsewhere!
Kioshi: Sorry … please don't mind her!
Taisho: let me ask you this … if your lawyer stood by another lawyer's side when she was insulted, … what did you do?
Kioshi: Not much … I have no control over how my mother reacts!
Taisho: That's such a weak excuse … it only shows that you agree with everything your mother says … if you hear something wrong, then you should let her know … where is your guts?!
Kioshi felt ashamed, his wife said the same thing to him, and they were both right … he couldn't figure out how to stand up to himself and his believes against his mother
Nanami- obāchan: What's wrong with that?!
Taisho: You can love your son all you want, but you should punish him when he does wrong … you call her names, when your own son is the man who deceived her?
Kioshi realized that he slipped up, he never wanted to let them know about that, he feared if he did out himself, he won't gain the trust of a man, who his daughter use to live with!
Nanami- obāchan: It's not his fault she fell for it …plus, she's the one who kept the baby a secret, my son missed 17 years of her life because of that bitch!
Okami-san: Please refrain from insulting Mogami-san, we are uncomfortable with your treatment of her, she was nothing but polite and honest with us … your treating her unfairly!
Upset, Taisho said: if you utter one more insult, I will not serve you anymore! … this conversation is over!
Kioshi: No please … I just want to know about my child … any information is helpful!
Taisho: If you have questions, ask her mother … she knows her better!
Nanami- obāchan: she won't tell anything!
Okami-san: We can't help you … I'm sorry … ( she sees more people come in, so she breath's a sigh of relief and goes to serve them)
Taisho gave Kioshi a stern look giving him no chance to argue and continues his work
Kioshi and his mother eat their food in an awkward silence, and leave without anything useful
Nanami- obāchan knew that she messed up, so she thought about finding someone else, more willing to talk … possibly in Kyoko's agency like her manager who they saw earlier … but that would be super difficult
She decided that she should find someone close to Kyoko, like her friend who she talked to on the phone … but since she didn't know who Moko, and her research didn't give any useful result
She planned to find Kyoko's school and figure out more from there … she aid to talk to anyone, even if it meant giving money to her bullies just to learn more
Author notes:
Chapter 14 Ends here!
I'm So Sorry it took sooooooo long to update, I am taking finance(very difficult for someone who hates math), and it's really difficult to balance school and a hobby like writing … so forgive me please. I will try my best to update you sooner next time.
Thank you all for reading this chapter and thank you for your support
Reviews are much appreciated
Until next time! Jane!