Kyoko: the First Japanese Princess

by Elena5Shiho

When It comes to Family, Family always come first, and when challenges come forward, Family will stick together. The Truth always wins and it will always prevail. Finally, people should always be fair and respectful. This story is about Kyoko the first Japanese Princess, how you ask? Because dreams do come true in the world of skip beat.

20. Chapter 20: Kyoko's Response

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

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Chapter 20: Kyoko's Response

(At a Private membership Bar)

Ren sat down with Yashiro at a private table, secluded from most customers and waited for their two guests

First to arrive was Kana-san … she knocked the door and Yashiro let her in … she took her seat and said: you got me a drink? … thank you!

Ren: No problem

Kana: I didn't expect to be invited again, after what happened last time!

Ren: I don't hold grudges … besides, I wanted to talk about the incident itself before I get to the main topic

Kana: I see …

Ren smiled and said: So how are things now? … did you achieve your objective?

Kana: well … you can say that things are on the right track now … I got that attention I crave and I'm hopeful things will work out going forward!

Ren: I'm glad!

Kana: What about you, I hope I didn't cause you any trouble! … Just for my defense … I know that your single, which is why I choose you … if you were in a relationship, I wouldn't dare …

Ren: It's true that I'm single … but a few misunderstands did cause me trouble here and there … plus, everyone keeps thinking I'm happily dating you, so I would like to clear that up!

Kana smiled and asked: So, you have someone special in mind?

Ren: I would lie if I said they weren't special … but I like how things are right now, So I won't pursue anything yet!

Yashiro rolled his eyes and thought (You won't purse anything? … weren't you the one flirting with her right in front of me)

Kana: Who's the lucky girl?

Ren: I would like to keep everything under wraps for now … I want to protect her no matter what!

Kana Teases: Your mean … you know who I like … why can't I know your Significant other!

Ren: Because nothing is set in stone!

Kana: Fine … I will let it go for now … so, what's the plan … are you going to come out and deny it?

Ren: It was recommended that I keep quiet about this … but I don't think I want others to keep assuming were in a relationship!

Kana: So, you want me to come out and reveal the truth?

Ren: If you could, I would appreciate it!

Kana Teases: I mean, I would … but how am I supposed to explain that … incident!

Ren: Just the same way you explain it to me… I allowed you to pick your white day gift, and that's what you choose!

Kana: hmm …. That can be doable … I will have to think about it though!

Ren: that's alright … I'm patient … send me your replay and we'll go from there!

Yashiro gets up as another knock on the door was heard, and he let Koga in

Koga: Wow … what a surprise … I didn't know I was invited to be a third wheel!

Ren looked at him and smiled then denied saying: Who's a third wheel … no one is here on a date!

Koga: Aren't you two together though … It was all over the news! … You even broke the hearts of many … including my co-star … she even ditched you for a foreigner because you shattered her poor little heart!

Confused, Ren asked: Ditched me for a foreigner?

Even more confused, Yashiro asked: who are you talking about?!

Koga: Kyoko … that Love Me girl!

Ren blinked in shock for a second, then he recalled the fact Koga saw him (Kuon) with Kyoko at the restaurant … not too long ago

Stunned, Yashiro asks: Kyoko was with a foreigner?! …. What are you even talking about Koga-san?!

Kana noticed how shocked Ren and Yashiro were, when Koga mention Kyoko … she thought (I'm unsure if I've heard about her … I should look her up)

Koga: I saw her a short while ago … she went to a fancy restaurant with him … they looked very close!

Ren knew exactly what Koga was talking about … but he didn't want to say anything … since it would be impossible to explain it to Yashiro without revealing Kuon.

In Denial, Yashiro says: There is no way Kyoko would hang out with a foreigner … you must be mistaken … for sure!

Sulking, Koga said: How mean … are you calling me a liar? …. I saw her there! … I even talked to her … you can ask her, if you don't believe me!

Yashiro thought (could it be Cain Heel?) … so, he anxiously asked: was his hair black and he was super tall? … is that him?!

Koga: No … he was blonde and had green colored eyes… that guy was over-protective of her and he even threatened me …. (then he sang sarcastically): Scary~!

Misunderstanding, a stunned Yashiro asked: Blonde?!

Koga: I couldn't tell you who, because I don't know … maybe she's hiding a side of her that she's doesn't want her manager to see!

Kana: Yashiro-san, you're not managing Tsuraga-san alone?

Koga: Yeah … he was with Kyoko at the auditions! … she's in the same agency, LME … have you not heard of her? … she was very interesting … since she played Mio in Dark Moon!

Kana: Dark Moon's Mio is a girl called Kyoko? … I seem to have missed that!

Koga turns to Ren and asks: don't you feel backstabbed? … after you visited daily since that incident, she goes off with another man … let alone a foreigner?!

Ren replies flatly: I can't dictate who she gets to hang out with … it's her life after all!

Yashiro thinks (This is bad, Ren's trying to suppress his emotions … but! … what the hell was Kyoko doing with that guy in a fancy restaurant?!) ** that guy = Fuwa Sho**

Annoyed, Koga: ugh … You're a boring Guy … I can't understand why your number one, when you don't even look at the women who worship you!

Ren: Woman don't worship me! … that's just going too far!

Koga: Haven't you met Kyoko?! … her level of respect for you is beyond normal … she basically idolizes you to a ridiculous extent … when I'm the one working with her!

Unsure how to react, Ren just asks: what's your point?!

Koga: I mean … make up your mind or something … No … maybe you should be clearer with your motives … now, tell me … why did you visit her on a daily basis, if she was nothing to you?! … besides, the media is still talking about you two, as if you just started dating yesterday!

Kana thought (he visited her on a daily basis … that's some dedication … but why didn't people catch up to that … there was no news about that … was it because people were still buzzing about us?!)

Ren: she's not nothing to me … she's my junior at the agency!

Kana: We're not a couple, this was just a stunt on my part … in reality, it was just a thank you gift for white day!

Koga: Wow … That's crazy … why didn't you go out and deny it then?

Yashiro: There is no point in going out and denying the news right away … people will believe whatever they want … it's better to wait it out, then when things calm down, they can deny it comfortably!

Smiling, Koga says sarcastically: Sure thing … those tabloids don't go easy on the most desired people!

Kana: Anyway … you wanted to see us for something, right?

Koga: wait! he still didn't answer me! … besides your reasoning don't make sense to me, … junior? really? … I don't see you visiting every junior … let alone every day!

Ren didn't want to confirm anything to anyone yet … he wanted to wait for Kyoko's response before telling anyone …. So, he tried to think of something, but Yashiro beat him to it

Yashiro: Well, this is a fact not many people know … but, all three of us had those chocolates … but only she ended up being poisoned … we were there … we saw it all … so it doesn't make sense if we didn't visit her … we wanted to make sure she walks out of the hospital alive and safe!

Surprised, Kana asks: Survivors guilt?

Surprised, Koga points at Ren and says: You also ate the Chocolate … but only she got the bad one?! …. Shocking!

Yashiro: why does it feel like you wish Ren was the one who got poisoned instead?!

Koga: Don't get me wrong please … I wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy … I was just thinking … Kyoko has very bad luck … huh?!

Stern, Ren says: It's not about bad luck … it's about someone planning to hurt her and they actually went as far as almost killing her … that person must be found and brought to justice!

Koga: Hooo … your angry … that's means you care about her more than just a junior, yeah?!

Yashiro: let's just get to the main topic … shall we?!

Ren sighs and then takes a deep breath … he then looks at them and says: I would like to ask you two to join me in representing the antibullying campaign

Koga: Ah, my Agency was talking about joining forces with LME concerning a campaign … so that's what it was about?!

Kana: Same here … They think this will help protect us as their talents and prevent scandals and possible mental illnesses that keep killing the weak and vulnerable!

Koga: ah … are you talking about the case of Yamamoto Shinji?

Kana: Yeah … they were bullied by anti-fans for some time on the basis of gaining weight … he developed a severe eating disordered, which resulted in depression … in the end, he ended his own life 6 months ago … he belonged to my agency, so I've met him before!

Koga: But, was it true that he liked men?

Kana: No, that was just a rumor … Some Homophobic people attacked him for being overly close with his best friend … which was another reason why he got depressed …... tragic case!

Koga: But why us? … Why did you choose me of all people … We're not even friends … in fact … I'm the one man who wants to crush you because you're my rival!

Ren: I respect you because you're not trying to use dirty tricks to beat me … you're a hard worker who earned your place up there … and frankly … I don't care about my placements in such polls about most desired men and what not!

Yashiro: That's true … Ren never cared about things like that … I don't update him about those topics, because their irrelevant!

Koga: Huh? … Are you saying I'm fighting a useless fight to reach the top?!

Ren: That's not what I meant, … You earned everything you've worked on so far … the top rank isn't too far from your reach

Koga: Ehhh … Even with the rumor of you two dating, people still want you more than they want me … Kyoko was wrong after all!

Kana: Are you talking about the same Kyoko?

Koga: yeah … she told me that a taken man will lose a lot of fans … but … (he points at Ren) … this guy is still the most desirable man … I don't get it!

Ren thought (was she talking about me … after I confessed?)

Yashiro: When did she say such thing?!

Koga: You're like her biggest defender, aren't you? … she said that right after the news of those two having a relationship blew up … a lot of women around me were heartbroken … So, I tried to tease her about it and she said something along the lines of the "greatest hate is born from the greatest love" … or something!

Yashiro shrieks in pain and thinks (What is going on?! … Now, I'm all confused)

Ren however was calm, he just smiled and said: All I can say is … Good luck!

Yashiro looks at Ren in surprise and thinks (Aren't you a bit worried?!)

Koga: I will become number one sooner or later … and I don't need luck, because I know that soon all women will realize how great I am … especially when the movie comes out … I'm the star after all!

Kana: I feel like we drifted off topic … shall we get back to it? … I have a question concerning it, … what is required of us to do?

Ren: Every Agency that joined forces with the Campaign will nominate 1 man and 1 woman to represent them in the campaign … I want the 2 of you to volunteer to represent your respected agencies and join me as the face of the campaign … your voices are strong and people look up to you … So, I have no doubt that the message will reach many of your fans!

Yashiro: 85% of the top agencies have joined the campaign already … and we're slowly getting everyone on our side … because this cause is important to us!

Koga: Hmmm … I mean I don't mind … but, am I supposed to follow some specific rules?

Ren: The main rule is to be a role model to people and make sure that you don't bully anyone … as your representing a non-bulling campaign, so you shouldn't be bullying anyone!

Koga: fair enough ... but … how do you define bullying … because I mean … sometime people say things when they don't mean harm … but they might be considered a bully, you know!

Ren cunningly answers: It is indeed hard to define what is bullying, … which is why you should avoid any actions that can be preserved as bullying and act as a role model to your peers ... avoid teasing other, can also help!

Yashiro felt like Ren was personally going after Koga for some reason and was a little worried by that

Suspicious, Koga asks: Are you perhaps …. attacking me?!

Ren plays innocent and asks: why would you think that?!

Koga: Because I happen to tease Kyoko a lot when were on Set … are you perhaps trying to control me … trying to prevent me from teasing her?

Ren: Do you perhaps think that she comes to me to complain about you?

Yashiro: Kyoko isn't the type of person that complain about how others treat her

Koga: Really? … she's very odd … I thought my teasing will get her to beg you to give up the number 1 spot to me!

Kana: Are you serious?!

Ren raised an eye brow and stared at Koga silently

Koga: It's a Joke … I'm not that shameless … it's just fun teasing her because she holds so much respect for this guy … I mean … I do think she likes him in a special way … but who knows!

Kana: but respect doesn't always equal romantic feelings!

Koga: when I asked if she liked him … she said "Like him" is putting it extremely lightly!

Kana: hmmm … Interesting!

Ren: I don't think we should be talking about someone else's feelings, when there not here to voice it themselves!

Koga: But it involved you?!

Ren: That's precisely why! … whether its respect or anything else … we shouldn't be discussing it ... we're here for a specific matter, and I would rather stay on topic!

Koga: We can stay on both topics in fact … Kyoko is being bullied, isn't she?! … I saw that video yesterday … of 3 girls spilling their drinks on her!

Kana: That's Terrible! … why would they do that?!

Ren clenched his fest and thought (Maybe Talking to this guy is no use)

Koga: Have you seen it?

Yashiro: We had just arrived to the restaurant when it happened … We tried to talk to them, but they were too entitled to get through … they will however face the consequences of their actions

Koga: I wonder, who came up with this whole campaign idea! … it's not a bad idea … the timing is just interesting!

Kana: Koga-san … your jumping around too much … I can't keep up anymore!

Koga: Sorry … I'm just very curious … I know LME is behind it … but … I don't think the president of that company would go through all that planning … just for one case?

Ren: Bullying has been a huge part of this industry for the longest time … some people like to trample over others for the chance of fame, even friendships are considered fragile … with all those issues happening … a lot of people are hurting and giving up on a career they love … we must fix the issues that are harming and even killing some of us … so we can be both happy and safe … don't you think it's time to change this industry?

Yashiro: It's not only one case … but even if it is … one person being bullied is more than enough to move our emotions and encourage us to fight for equality … not only for us, but everyone in Showbiz!

Kana: I agree … It is time to change for the better … at least we should take the first few steps, because if we just sit and watch … nothing will change! … I want to be able to love my significant other without being judged … no matter who they are!

Ren: Right … People bully new comers for acting with idols before they get their chance … and people judge the people you hang out with … "this girl is shameless for hanging out with him, who does she think she is" and " This Guy isn't suitable for her" … fans have developed a judgmental stance … where they think they have the right to choose who we get to be around and who we can date … I am grateful to fans, surly ... but I don't want them controlling my actions … I don't personally care if I lose some of my fans … but if I lose all of them, then my career might as will be over … right?

Koga teasingly said: I personally wouldn't mind that!

All three looked at him and thought it was hopeless talking to someone like him

But Koga continued: But I get your point … in order to gain more fans and not lose much … you need to make sure you don't do anything the fans think is unacceptable … sometime … when I choose who I want to date … I think "would fans judge us if we're together" … I'm sick of that … many girls contact me and say "I like you so much … but … I'm no match for you"

Kana: So, they leave you in order to protect themselves … as they were probably pressured by your fans!

Yashiro: I wouldn't be surprised if they got some death threats … some fans are so controlling, its scary even thinking about that!

Kana: At this point … I wouldn't want those people to be my fans … I don't need those toxic people judging my every move!

Ren: So, would you Join me in representing this campaign?!

Kana: Yes, I would like to this industry change for the better … for sure!

Ren looks at Koga and says: you don't have to, if you don't want to!

Koga turns serious, saying: No … I want to … I have to … for her … (he went quite for a long 90 seconds)

Then he continued with a sad tone: you know … me and my high school crush broke up because of those toxic fans … and no matter who I dated … I didn't feel the same happiness I felt when I was with her … I want her back … if it's not too late that is

He went silent again, then he said with confidence: So, Count me in!

Kana: Good luck Koga-san … I hope you can rekindle that love of yours!

Ren: alright then … As I previously mentioned, … go to your agency and request to be a representative for the campaign … I will also talk to the president and let him know you both agreed!

Yashiro: The campaign will release a video of you all, once we have all the details figured out!

Koga: I just wonder … how long will it take for this campaign to get the results it desires?

Kana: It might take some time, right … it's not easy to change the whole industry in a few days!

Ren: Your right … it won't be easy … it could take months … maybe years … but if we change things slowly … people will accept them more smoothly!

Yashiro and Ren take turns explaining the campaign rules and how it's going to be done!

Koga: I like that … I'm completely on board!

Kana: Same here!

Ren: It's all settled then!

Yashiro: This is great … we are moving on the right track Ren!

Ren: Yeah …

Kana gets a text that her manager has arrived to pick her up, so she says: I should head out now … I will contact my agency and let you know!

Ren: Thank you!

Cheerful, Kana says: I won't forget about the explanation either … just give me a few days, ok?

Ren: Take your time!

Kana: Alright … Take care … See you around! … she bows slightly then leaves

Yashiro: Should we head out too, Ren?

Ren looks at the time and notes that it's still early, so he says: No … I will have another drink!

Koga: don't you have a job to get to?

Ren: No … I have 2 jobs early tomorrow … so I'm free to do as I please tonight!

Yashiro checks his phone and sees that he got an email about Kyoko's new script being ready for pick up, so he says: I will go pick something up and meet you back here!

Ren: Sure … Take your time!

Yashiro gets up, bows then leaves

Koga: Did you want to be alone with me?!

Ren: Huh?

Koga: Both Kana-san and your manager are gone … so … do you have anything you want to say to me? … it can't be a coincidence!

Ren: It sure it is … I had no plans to be alone with you

Koga: I see … well, I'm staying for a bit … since your covering the bill … I might as well order something fancy!

Ren: be my guest!

Koga: Your boring … at least say something interesting!

Ren: Maybe I should take advantage of this rare opportunity!

Worried, Koga asks: what are you up to?

Ren: I'm well aware of how you view Mogami-san … you seem to hate the fact she's close to me and that she has higher respect for me compared to yourself … but I would appreciate it if you stop harassing her … I know you think it's only teasing … but she's not so experienced and she's unsure how to react in those types of situations

Koga: I see … so you're going after me personally because I teased your beloved?

Ren: I've heard what you said to her the other day!

Shocked, Koga asks: That blondie told you?!

Ren: Something like that …

Koga: So, you like her … don't you?!

Ren: I don't have to explain myself to you … But Yes … she's special … and I will do anything to protect her … even if it means I have to go against you!

Koga: No Man … I'm not interested in her in that way … I just hate you because … if you didn't exist … I would be number one!

Ren: Then please don't let your personal hatred towards me affect how you treat her … She's already dealing with nasty people who are her age and yet treat her badly … Yes, she can fight them, but I'm sure she will just let you say whatever you want … and despite what you may think … whatever you say does play in her mind for a while after!

Koga: how would you know that?!

Ren: Because I was mean towards her when we first met … I didn't agree with her on something and said some awful things that I regret to this day … although she doesn't seem to think of them anymore … there were a few times where I was afraid that she will be terrified of me and run away the moment she sees me!

Stunned, Koga laughed while saying: You were mean to her … and she's somewhat terrified of you!? … what the heck did you do to her?! … you monster! ... I always thought that you're a needless gentleman … but this! … Wow … I'm Shocked!

Annoyed, Ren asked: Are you done?!

Koga: No … shall I continue?

Ren: ….

Koga: But really! … that was unexpected … why were you mean to her?

Ren: I can't give details without her permission, but … I will say that I didn't like her motive coming into showbiz … I didn't think guts will help her as much it did … but she managed … I kept being mean to her despite being impressed by her … but eventually I understood where she was coming from … maybe perhaps I still don't like the fact "that" was her reason … Yet, I can't wait to see her achieve her goal … in both cases!

Frustrated, Koga: what kind of language is that?! … what the hell are you saying?! … I barely understood anything! … Are you Drunk already?!

Ren: No!

Koga: Can't handle Alcohol?!

Ren: I can! … I can't explain everything, without her permission!

Koga: Fine … then tell me … what made you change your behavior towards her then?!

Smiling, Ren answering: I learned something about her … which made me view her in a different light … She is such a hard-working individual … No matter how much she hates something, she will still work hard to achieve her goals … let it be good grades even if she dislikes studying … taking care of her mean senior who has fallen sick … she even managed to shoot a successful MV with someone she loathes!

Koga: You two have such a weird history!

Ren: yeah …

Koga: You like her, don't you?!

Ren looked at Koga and answered assertively: "Like her" … that's putting it extremely lightly … I don't just like her … I'm in love with her … and that alone is driving me crazy!

Koga: Hey! … hit the brakes man … what the heck? … why would that drive you crazy?!

Ren: because I don't know how she feels about me … I know what you're about to say … but that doesn't help … from my own experience … she always treats me like some deity … her respect for me is abnormal … but, I'm in no position to express my feelings freely … because of all the bullying she's already facing … besides … I don't know if she's over what happened to her in the past!

Koga: You messed up!

Ren: The past isn't about me … it's about someone else … but again, I can't explain without her permission!

Koga: So, another guy, eh? … he hurt her, so she won't open her heart for love again … that sort of thing?!

Ren looked at him with surprise without confirming or denying anything

Koga: Don't look at me like that … I'm not stupid … besides … if Love me is the name of her section and not your company … then, it could mean that she has her own issues with love that she needs to get over with … I get it … Her abnormal respect for you and resistance to admit her feelings gave me an inkling about it all!

Ren: You're not wrong …

Koga: So, do you know the details of what happened?

Ren: Yeah …

Koga: But you can't say anything without her permission … I get it!

Ren looks at his drink and … thinks (why am I so worried?)

Koga: but … why does it seem like your worried about something else right now?

Ren looks at Koga in surprise and tilts his head forging confusion

Koga: Its either your worried about the campaign … or … your worried about something else, perhaps … something concerning her?!

Ren: Who knows!

Koga: Talk to me … I'm a Man … I can understand things, you know!

Ren: we're not even friends … how do you expect me to open up to you, when you openly declared that you hated me and wish that I'd be gone?!

Koga: I will put my feeling aside for tonight! … so, feel free to talk to me!

Ren: I have nothing to say …because frankly, I don't even know why I'm so worried … it's just have a feeling deep down, that is bothering me … but I can't even explain it myself!

Koga: well then … Sorry, I can't help you with that!

Ren just looked down at his drink and then pushed it away … saying: I've had enough

Yashiro comes and say: I'm back!

Koga: I guess I should head out then … Take care!

Ren got up and said: Let's head out as well!

Koga: Yo, Ren! … I don't really hate you that much … so I will stop! … you have my word!

Ren looked at him and nodded, then said: Thank you!

Koga: Good night … I should head out and contact my agency … the sooner we can start the sooner we get desired results!

Ren: Yeah … Thank you again!

Koga waves to them as he walks away

Ren goes to pay the bill and left with Yashiro

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(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Hiroki, Hayato, and Hokuto were spending time with Anna …. Playing a board game, they got from a nearby shop

Anna: You Won again Hiroki!

Hiroki: yeah … I'm done!

Hayato: Can't you let us win?!

Hokuto: We always lose!

Anna: It won't be a real game if he pretends to play badly … would it?

Hiroki: Don't you do that, mom?

Anna: I've always been terrible at playing board games … you can ask my parents!

Hiroki: fair point! … good luck next time Hayato!

Nanami open the door using her son's key and says: how are my sweet grandchildren doing?

Kioshi: we're back!

Hiroki get up and attempts to leave … because he was still upset with both his dad and grandma

Nanami: Where are you going?!

Hiroki: to my room!

Kioshi: Hiroki stay … please!

Hiroki: why should I? … I'm not interested in hanging out with you!

Nanami: What is the matter with you … are you turning your back on your father now?

Kioshi: Mom … it's ok … I've disappointed him!

Nanami: Anna … why the hell did you tell him … are you trying to break this family apart?!

Kioshi: Mom! … No! … I told him! … plus, he's mad about something else, too!

Nanami: about what?!

Kioshi: Kyoko was being bullied … but, I tried to stop him from being involved against the bullies … I just thought that arguing with such people was meaningless … and that others were handling it, so there was no need for him to include himself in that situation.

Nanami: Hiroki ... what your father did was the right thing ... you shouldn't get involved in that matter … But I like the fact your being protective of your sister … if only her mother raised her well … she wouldn't be bullied like that!

Kioshi: Mom, No! … it's not about that! … Don't blame her mother for other's actions!

Nanami: Stop defending that women … if she raised that girl well, she would be able to defend herself … actually … she wouldn't even allow people to bully her … that women failed that girl!

Kioshi: You don't know that … stop assuming things, please! … somethings are out of her control!

Annoyed, Hiroki says: I'm done here!

Nanami: Stop right there! … We have a guest coming soon … she's here about your sister, so be patient!

Kioshi: Nakano-san is on her way here … she said that she has Kyoko's response, so I would hope you would stay to hear it!

Hiroki looked at his mother who nodded, so he went and sat down beside her

Hayato: Who is Nakano-san?

Nanami: She's our lawyer … she is trying to help us meet and possibly take the girl to our side!

Hiroki: we're not taking her! … If you try to do that … we won't accept her!

Hayato: Why not?! … you always wanted a sister … why would you defend her … then say you won't accept her!

Hiroki: I defended her because she was being bullied for no reason … not because we're related … She may be related to us … but we have no right to take her away from her life here!

Nanami: She is related to you … she's your older sister … that's not a debatable matter!

Hiroki argues: that still doesn't give us the right to take her!

Nanami: You never know … she might come on her own will!

Knock knock

Kioshi gets up as he says: I believe Nakano-san has just arrived …. (he opens the door) and says: Come in … we're all here!

Akemi Nakano: Thank you … I'm sorry for the delay … I wanted to come earlier, but I had to deal with a family emergency

Anna: I hope everything is ok!

Akemi Nakano: It will … thank you!

Hayato: What happened?

Akemi Nakano: My Son fell in the playground and broke his arm … but it's not serious … he will just have to be in a cast for 4-6 weeks!

Anna: I hope he feels better soon!

Akemi Nakano: Thank you … I hope so too!

Nanami: enough with that … Aren't you here for our case?!

Kioshi: Mom!

Akemi Nakano: That's ok … I'm indeed here because I have received Mogami-san's response to your request.

Upset, Nanami asks: weren't you in the meeting?

Akemi Nakano: I was … I intended to come right after we finished … but I got the call from my husband concerning my son's accident … I'm here now, since my son is back home with our family!

Nanami: Give me her response … where is it … I want to see it!

Kioshi: Can't you be patient?

Akemi Nakano Take out a small device and a stack of papers, then says: This is the audio recording of the whole meeting … and this is the typed version of the response

Displeased, Hiroki asks: why did he bring two version … wasn't one enough?

Angry, Nanami ask: Where is the video recording?!

Akemi Nakano: As we discussed, I will only bring the recordings that Mogami-san agreed to … we asked her, and she approved of both the audio and the script … but she wasn't comfortable giving you the video recording

Nanami assumed: So, she said no, didn't she!?

Kioshi: Mom … you agreed to listen to the response without assuming anything … let's just listen to it!

Nanami: What's the point!? … I can already tell you what her response is … she said No, right Nakano-san?!

Akemi Nakano: You made me promise not answer any question regarding her response … you can hear the whole conversation regarding her response

Nanami: Doesn't her refusal of giving us a video recording evident?

Kioshi: well … maybe she wasn't comfortable being put in front of a Camera!

Nanami argued: She's an actress … she should be natural in front of a camera!

Kioshi: It's a sensitive topic ... she might be an actress … but talking about something like that might be very uncomfortable … especially in front of camera!

Hiroki: Why did ask for a video response if you know she would be uncomfortable with it?!

Kioshi justifies saying: My mom asked for it, not me … she wanted to see how the whole thing unfolded … and get the response straight from her!

Nanami: What's wrong with that … we want to see her … we weren't even allowed to be in the meeting … so it's only fair that we ask for a video recording of it!

Kioshi: anyway … can you play the Audio recording please?

Akemi Nakano: Sure! … is everyone ready… should I start it, now?

Kioshi: go ahead!

Akemi Nakano played the recording of the whole meeting, … once the meeting finished, she stopped the tape and put it on the table over the script that she printed for them.

After hearing the whole conversation, the thing that struck Hiroki was the fact Kyoko said she was an unwanted child … he thought to himself (what makes her think she's unwanted … the fact Dad wasn't in her life … or was it because her mother made her feel that way?)

Similarly, Anna was struck by the same statement … she thought (Does she think she's unwanted because it what most people would think in that kind of situation … or did she feel that way growing up?!)

Kioshi was shocked by how smart Kyoko seemed in the meeting … and how she managed to piece everything together, but felt really bad that she felt that way … and thought (I know I messed up … damn it … why am I so disappointed?!)

Upset, Nanami: So, I was right after all … she refused to meet any of us!

Akemi Nakano: Mogami-san told her that if she changed her mind, she can talk to her and she will inform me with any changes … since this was all too sudden … perhaps once the information settles in … she might feel differently

Mockingly, Nanami responded: Right! … do you really think I will believe that … she thinks her father was fooling around in another country instead of living in Jail … you think that girl will change her mind … when she considered her married father is fooling around with his own wife?!

Kioshi: She's Mad … she will definitely say things like that to express her anger … I know I was wrong, so I understand where she's coming from!

Hayato: Is she mad at us too?!

Hokuto: why … we didn't do anything wrong!

Anna: She's not mad at you … she's probably shocked by all of that … it's hard enough to know that your father left 18 years ago and never apologized for what he did to her mother … but above all she learns that he's married and has kids of his own … it's not easy to handle all the news at once!

Looking at Anna, Nanami says: He's her father too! … but she called him a stranger … this is beyond unacceptable!

Kioshi: Mom please … you can't expect her to be happy about the whole thing!

Nanami: Nakano-san … let me ask you this … has the injury been discussed at all?

Kioshi: you heard the audio … it wasn't discussed, why ask such question!

Akemi Nakano: actually … after we stopped the recording … Kyoko remembered something, and it seems to be about the injury … she pretty much figured it all out … although she wasn't sure if it's Nanami-san or Anna-san's doing

Hiroki: What are you talking about … what injury?! … my mom wouldn't hurt anyone!

Anna was shocked to say the least … but she thought (sure … if it wasn't him ... then it could be me or my mother-in-law … Jealousy might lead some women to assault the "other" women!)

Furious, Nanami asked: What?! … so, you told her?!

Akemi Nakano: No … She was the one who asked … she assumed the injury happened on Tuesday based on her mother's actions … so, tied everything together, given her mother hid the injury … because she couldn't explain it without telling her about the meeting!

Worried, Hiroki asks: Mom! … who injured who!?

Anna: Your Grandmother assaulted Mogami-san … because she was afraid the police was there to arrest him by an order from her … when in reality … they were there to talk to the lawyer who was with her

Nanami: I didn't assault her … she's just a weakling … she pretended to fall and get hurt to get back at me … because she knows I'm right and she couldn't fight back!

Anna: I wasn't there, so I can only say what I was told by Todoh-san … he said it was you … so please, there is no need to lie!

Nanami: And you believe him? … you choose to side with him against me and your husband!

Anna: I'm not choosing sides … I'm stating facts … I don't think he has anything to gain from lying to me … the injury was clear … she needed stitches … her head was even swollen!

Nanami: She deserved it anyway!

Kioshi: Mom Stop! …. I'm begging you to stop!

Akemi Nakano: I was there … and I can verify that what Anna-san said is correct!

Hiroki: So, the police wasn't there to take dad away?!

Hayato: Hey … why would you ask that! … why would the police take dad!

Hokuto: I don't understand … your talking too fast!

Anna Hugged Hokuto and told him not to worry

Kioshi: As I said before, Mogami-san said she wouldn't get the police involved!

Hiroki: Then what were the police there for?

Forgetting that she wasn't supposed to know this information, Nanami spilled the beans saying: They were there for that girl's case, because she was attacked or something

Hayato: when was she attacked … how?!

Anna: We don't know much details, but we know that she was hospitalized for a few days because of what happened … but I don't think this is a child-friendly topic to talk about!

Nanami: It's their sister we're talking about … why not tell them?!

Anna: Kids as young as these two won't comprehend the situation like adults can … and although I don't think Hiroki should be informed about it either, he is aware of it, so I'm ok with just him knowing

Nanami: You don't get to decide that!

Anna: Yes, I do … I'm their mother, and I know my kids better than anyone … telling them something like that won't help them in any way …it will only scare them and confuse them, and I don't want that for them!

Nanami: What about Kioshi … do you think you can make decisions on your own now?!

Kioshi: That's not what she meant, mom … besides … I agree … Hayato and Hokuto are too young to be informed about that incident!

Suspicious, Akemi Nakano: Nanami-san … how are you aware of that though … I'm sure this wasn't discussed in the police station

Confused, Nanami asks: Aware of what?!

Akemi Nakano: why the police were asking for Todoh-san … how did you know it was about Kyoko's case?

Realizing she messed up, Nanami explains: I'm just guessing … My son told me that, that lawyer was visiting the hospital with some papers, so it's only fair to assume he's involved!

Akemi Nakano wasn't very convinced, but she accepted the response without digging further

A few moments of silence passed, before Hayato spoke up asking: so, she said she doesn't want to be a part of our family?

Anna: Hayato … I understand that this isn't what you expected … but we can force her to leave her mother's side and join us … after all, her mother was there for her, while were just strangers at this point!

Annoyed, Nanami asserts: How many times do I have to say that she's their sister … we're not strangers … haven't they met her … Hiroki has a picture with her too … they're beyond strangers by this point!

Surprised, Akemi Nakano asks: You met her?!

Anna: Well, I'm a fan of "Dark Moon", so they got me a Blu-ray of the whole Series when it came out … there was a signing with the main cast, and they managed to get her autograph

Kioshi: It was Anna's birthday just recently … and the boys wanted to surprise her with a personal gift like that … I was the one who took them to the signing event

Akemi Nakano: So, you also managed to meet her there?

Kioshi: No … I waited for the boys on the side, and only managed to see her from a distance

Nanami: Come to think of it … why didn't you approach her then … you were just meeting her as actress anyway?!

Kioshi: Her mother was there, and she saw me … I wouldn't dare come close, as I didn't want to cause any issues!

Nanami: Issues? … like what? … what issue will you cause if you meet your own child?!

Kioshi: I didn't want to cause issues for Mogami-san … she was clearly unhappy to see me there, … I was only going to approach her if her mother wasn't there!

Akemi Nakano: So, if her mother wasn't there … you wouldn't mind approaching her?

Kioshi: Well, I was meeting her as the actress and not as a father, as I wasn't sure she was mine, back then!

Nanami: Why was her mother there anyway … wasn't it an event for her show … She's 17 isn't she … she didn't need her mother to accompany her there!

Kioshi: Maybe she was free that day, and wanted to hang out with her daughter?!

Nanami: Free … surely … a failed lawyer like herself won't have much clients to trust her … she must have a lot of time to hang out with her famous daughter!

Akemi Nakano: Mogami-san isn't a failed lawyer … she's usually very busy, … so it's great she has some free time to be with her daughter … Her daughter must be just as busy … Showbiz isn't an easy industry to be in, after all!

Hiroki tried to remember the event, … he did see a woman standing a short distance behind Kyoko … that was the same women who was in the car, when his mother arrived at the arcades … he thought (Why was mom with her mom … are they friends now?!)

Hayato: why … she's only an actress?

Akemi Nakano: Actors are always busy filming … when they film a scene, they might film it over 20 times to get it just right … it all depends on the directors and producers in the end … I've heard that actors who become popular usually don't have much time to hang out with their own families … in fact, I know about an actress who missed her own brother's wedding, because she was busy filming a movie … it's a very demanding job!

Shocked, Hayato asks: do they film the same scene 20 times?!

Akemi Nakano: Yes … Actors are humans after all, they might make mistakes with their lines or make a wrong movement that will ruin the whole scene and force them to redo it … being an actress is no easy job … I don't know about American Showbiz … but I know Japanese Showbiz is very competitive and hard to survive in … only the best can make it!

Nanami: Since you seem to have some expert knowledge … do you think that this girl is able to survive in such a difficult industry?

Akemi Nakano: I'm no expert … I just know a few things … so I can't tell … but, to see how great she was as Mio in "Dark Moon" … I think Kyoko has potential to shine … Her agency LME is well known … so she is set to have great people behind her, guiding and protecting her!

Nanami: It doesn't matter … I will get her to come with us and help her join Hollywood … if she has a chance to be great … then Japan is just too small for her … she needs a bigger stage … and I will help her get there!

Kioshi: Mom … You don't know if she want's that herself … let's just give her some time … she's probably shocked right now … she needs time comprehend and digest the things she learned today!

Akemi Nakano: That's right … I would suggest you give her a week or so … it might take a little longer, depending on how busy she is!

Hiroki got up and said: I'm fine with her not wanting to meet us … ever!

Annoyed, Nanami argues: you've met her … not only in that event … but the mall as well … and you also managed to get a picture with her ... are you satisfied with that … enough to not care about our chance to meet her?

Kioshi: That's not what he meant!

Hiroki: She made her points clear in the audio we listened to … she doesn't want to meet us … we're strangers and I'm ok with that … it's completely normal for her to reject him … and all of us for that matter … especially after what he did!

Nanami: He didn't do anything to her … her mother is influencing her actions!

Kioshi: you don't know that … Her mother was clearly trying to give her the freedom to choose!

Nanami: Sure, she might have given her freedom … but you don't know what she did before … she might have said things to make her hate her own father!

Kioshi argues: She seemed surprised by the news … the audio clearly shows that her mother didn't open up about this with her until just now … come on … give her some credit for keeping her word!

Akemi Nakano gets a call and she excuses herself to answer it … she comes back and says: I need to head home now … as far as this goes … I have delivered the response you requested … you can keep both the script and audio … If you have any further questions, please reach out!

Kioshi and Anna thank her and walk her out, and bid her farewell

Nanami got up, picked up the script and walked by Anna … bumping into her … she pushed her away saying: move out of my way … (she opens the door and slams it on her way out)

Kioshi tried to apologize … but Anna just pushed his hand away … and said: I'm going to bed … take the boys to their room!

Kioshi sighs, then takes Hokuto and Hayato to their room to sleep … Hiroki however preferred to stay with his mom rather than go to his room with his father

---

(At Shoko's Apartment)

Shoko: Do you want to look at the sponsorship offer?

Sho: No … I'm not interested!

Shoko: You were so excited before!

Sho: That was before I learned that Kyoko was involved … I can't even believe the shit I heard!

Shoko: It was truly shocking … but, come to think about it … why didn't you tell them the truth about her living with you?!

Sho: I didn't want that dude to get the wrong idea … if she's his real daughter … he might snap at me and beat me up or something!

Shoko: well, fathers are surely protective about their own children … especially their daughters!

Sho: I can't trust that man though … he seemed like he was hiding some things … his mother is another story too … I didn't feel comfortable around them!

Shoko: So, you choose to protect Kyoko and her mother … because you think they might be up to no good?!

Sho: I don't know … As much as I think that Saena-san is a bad mother … she was still there … she paid all of Kyoko's expenses while she stayed with us … My mom even used that money to buy Kyoko's birthday gifts and stuff … and my mother mentioned that she stayed in contact with Saena-san … updating her about Kyoko in general ...

Shoko: I guess you're wrong about her!

Sho: I'm not wrong … She's still a bad mother … she made Kyoko cry all the time … there was a huge difference between how my mom treated me compared to how she treated Kyoko! …I don't think she loved Kyoko … she would slap her hand away … and she always stressed that Kyoko must get perfect grades … which Kyoko never achieved … which got her to scold Kyoko for that

Shoko: and why didn't you tell them that? … I mean the grandma said her son was a great father … he could take Kyoko and treat her better, don't you think?

Sho: No … he left years ago … before Kyoko was even born … No adult ever mentioned him, so that is evident that disappeared on his own … something is missing!

Shoko: From what I understand … Kyoko was deprived from her mother and her love … which means Kyoko is probably connected to a trauma her mother has … and it could all be tied to her relationship to the father … but … do you think her mother cut him off because she was mad?

Sho: I have a feeling that … Saena-san isn't the type of person to cut someone just like that!

Shoko: She might be a victim of something bigger then we think … As a woman myself, I can't help but feel bad … I do agree that what we know now isn't the full picture!

Sho: right … but why would she put all that on Kyoko … she was only a child!

Shoko: I can't explain that … but from what I know … it seems like all what Kyoko wanted is to be loved … her mother didn't give her that, … so she expected you to love her since you brought her here … you however pushed her away … no wonder why Kyoko ended up in that "Love me" section!

Annoyed, Sho says: Are you blaming me now?

Indifferent, Shoko asks: Am I wrong?!

Sho looked upset as he looked down and refused to answer her

Shoko: I'm really disappoint … to think that your childhood friend suffered so much, just for you to throw her away like that … that's just terrible … if I were you, I would have been nicer to her … even if I didn't have any romantic feelings for her … I would turn her down without hurting her like that!

Sho: What was I supposed to do … all she wanted was to be my wife … she didn't work on herself … she didn't look for things that make her happy … there is no way I can make her happy just be being there … I'm not interested in girls who don't have anything to define them!

Shoko: Then you should have guided her to find something … wasn't she busy working to afford that apartment … that you stopped living in … wasn't she doing that for you … if you didn't like that … you should've said or did something!

Frustrated, Sho said: And I did!

Shoko: No … she overheard you talking about her … whatever you said back then hurt her ... you, who knew her past … who knew about her mother and her sadness should have been gentler … there was better ways then just pushing her way … making her think you only used her because it was convenient for you!

Annoyed, Sho: I get it … I know I was wrong … my parents already gave me a lecture about how Terrible I was … Don't add yourself to the list

Shoko: Why don't you ask your mother about it!

Sho: huh? … how can I?! … she told me not to talk to anyone from the Miyasaki Family … Yet I went ahead and ignored her!

Shoko: Sometimes … I wish you'd think before you act …wait … why the hell didn't you tell me that you couldn't talk to them … I could've just turned them away!

Sho: She didn't give any reasons … so I didn't think much of it … who would have known that they came because they wanted info about Kyoko … I thought it was all about the sponsorship!

Shoko: You messed up … terribly!

Sho: I know!

Shoko: you should think about your actions next time … I'm tired … I'm heading to bed! … (she walks out, and goes to her bed)

Sho thinks for a little, then he dialed a number on his phone … took a deep breath and put the phone close to his ear

Yayoi answered the phone and says: I never expected you to call me … I'm the one who always has to reach out to hear my son's voice … what happened … are you in some sort of trouble … did you perhaps break the rule and got Saena-san angry?!

Sho: Why do you have to start the conversation like this … Can't I just call to check on you?

Yayoi: You don't do that! … I don't buy it … what do you want … some money? … aren't you making a lot of it? … you always bragged about how much they pay you!

Sho: NO! … It's not about the money … what's up with you … did you have a bad day and your taking all your frustration at me?!

Yayoi: No … work is as smooth as always … I'm just at lose with the fact you made the first move and called!

Sho: well, sorry … I will be more attentive and wait for your call next time! … how about that?!

Annoyed, Yayoi said: Spill it … what do you want!

Sho: well … you sent me a text yesterday about a family name … and not to talk to anyone from that family …

Yayoi: and you went ahead and talked to them?!

Sho: Excuse me … I was offered a sponsorship to do a concert in America … I wouldn't pass such a golden opportunity over some weird order … I mean … Am I supposed to not talk to anyone from that family? … I have met a guy before from that family before!

Yayoi: So, you talked to people from the Miyasaki family? … what did they want from you?!

Sho: I said they wanted to offer me a sponsorship to do a show in America!

Yayoi: That's all they wanted? … Fine by me … then … why are you calling … are you calling me to brag about it?!

Sho: Well … They also asked me about Kyoko …

Suspicious, Yayoi asks: and what did you say?!

Sho: Nothing much … the man claimed he was Kyoko's dad … the women with him was his mother … they wanted to know something, so when they meet Kyoko, they can treat her with things she liked or something!

Yayoi: So, they approached you too … I see … Are you sure you didn't tell them anything!

Sho: too? … are they some type of scammers … the concert contract looks real … I mean …

Yayoi: That's not what I meant … people came here asking about Saena and Kyoko, … those people are fishing for information about them … anything you say might be used against them … that's why I need you to tell me exactly what you said!

Sho: Use it against them? … what is going on exactly!?

Yayoi: I can't say much … because this matter involves Saena … you need her permission before I tell you anything!

Sho: But, the man called Kioshi Miyasaki … is he really Kyoko's dad?!

Yayoi: It's true, he is … but that man can't be trusted! … so, if he ever tried to approach you again, I would appreciate it if you don't let him!

Sho: His mother said that Saena-san cut him off because he traveled back to America!

Irritated, Yayoi said: That Liar! … Saena didn't know where he went … that man is the one who cut her off! … are they blaming her for the whole thing?!

Sho declared: The older lady even talked badly of Saena-san … she called her deranged!

Troubled, Yayoi: She dares to call her names like that … it's enough that she physically injured Saena the other day!

Stunned, Sho asked: What?! … they hurt Saena-san!?

Yayoi: It's the mother … She had a bad impression on Saena … she came to the meeting insulting her the whole time … once the meeting was over, she overheard something, and got the wrong idea … so she assaulted Saena … My brother told me about the whole thing!

Sho: She got the wrong idea about what?!

Yayoi: Well … all I will say is that the police wanted to meet Kyoko's lawyer … and she thought the police was there for her son … so she attacked Saena … who told her that she wouldn't get the police involved because she doesn't want to deal with them … something like that!

Sho: Isn't Saena-san Kyoko's lawyer?

Yayoi: No … Family shouldn't represent another member of the family … emotions get in the way … so Saena's coworker took the case … he was also with her in that meeting with that man and his family

Sho: His mother and wife, right? … so that means the guy called Todoh-san is the lawyer in question!

Yayoi: You know a lot about this?!

Sho: No … I'm just telling you what I know … they thought my uncle was Todoh-san at some point … besides … his mother mentioned he was a good father … and I didn't believe them, so he told me he's married and has 3 sons!

Confused, Yayoi asks: what made you doubt him when it was mentioned he was a good father?!

Sho: well, if he's Kyoko's father … then he can't be a good father for leaving his child behind … he never visited, so I thought he was dead or something … but since he's alive … it only makes sense that he abandoned them … right?!

Yayoi: Again … I can't tell you the details … but you're not too far off!

Sho: He said he didn't know about the pregnancy … so from that I understand that he left Saena-san by his own volition … but the details in between were not mentioned!

Annoyed, Yayoi complain: Of course, not … he wouldn't out himself to a mere stranger!

Sho: Out himself?

Yayoi: He wouldn't give you details that would make him look bad, would he … Think Shotaro!

Sho: I understand that! … it's just … the whole thing seems fishy … I don't know much about Saena-san … but … she doesn't give the impression that she would cut someone off because of the distance … but … but …

Yayoi: but?

Sho: whatever happened back then … is that the reason why she hated Kyoko?

Yayoi: That's wrong … Saena doesn't hate Kyoko … she just couldn't love her …

Sho: that guy left her … she then found out she was pregnant with his child … so she treated Kyoko badly because she couldn't forgive him for leaving her? … This is what I think Happened, but it's doesn't make a lot of sense … does it?!

Yayoi sighs then says: There are a lot of details in between … it's not as simples as you make it seem … he didn't just leave … but I can't tell you what really happened … the whole situation is complicated!

Sho: But … why was Kyoko treated like that … why did Saena-san leave her with us … I know she paid all her expenses and you called her with updates … but still

Yayoi: It's complicated … but … It was my brother's idea … He told Saena to leave Kyoko with me and come work for him in Tokyo … that was done for both their sakes!

Sho: Uncle's Idea?!

Yayoi: Look … Many people would disagree with what Saena did … But I understand her position … If I were her … I wouldn't be able to handle it either … I'm not justifying her actions, I'm just asking you to not judge her too hard … she's not a bad person … perhaps, she's not meant to be a mother … but she's trying … and above all … Kyoko seems ok with it … Since they're together now, I will ask you to support them by staying away from that family …please!

Sho: Does Kyoko know what happened in the past?

Yayoi: Saena told me that Kyoko is now aware of the whole situation … in fact … I believe she's telling Kyoko about that man's presence today!

Sho: Wait … so she knows what happened between her parents?

Yayoi: Yes … Kyoko went to meet her in April … they talked then … I guess what happened was a blessing in disguise … to some extent!

Sho: Her mother denied her existence … what blessing can come out of that?

Yayoi: She wasn't targeting Kyoko with that … the massage was meant for that man … sure, Kyoko wasn't warned about it … so, she was hurt by it … however, that is what pushed her to approach Saena … That whole situation moved the gears of the clock that stopped ticking a long time ago!

Sho: It was meant for him? … does that mean that Saena-san saw him, feared he would come to her, so she said that … and that got Kyoko to meet her and they talked … became closer somehow … but in the end … the man still came!

Yayoi: Yes … and from what I heard … his wife was in the hospital in the same time Kyoko got poisoned … which is how that man came to learn about Saena and Kyoko!

Sho: If Kyoko wasn't poisoned … he would have never known?

Yayoi: I wouldn't know … but that's possible … anyway … Just keep this in mind … stay away from those two … no matter what!

Sho: Can I ask you something!

Yayoi: Go ahead!

Sho: How does Kyoko feel about this whole thing … is she happy that he finally appeared?

Yayoi: I don't think so … and I'm sure learning about him being here will be a shock … not to mention the fact he's married with kids and all … Kyoko might feel like her life is flipped upside down … I know you can't approach her and check on her … so the best thing you can do is support them by not getting close to the Miyasaki's … don't give them any information, no matter how small ... ok?!

Sho: alright … I will be careful!

Yayoi: If you remembering anything about your conversation with them, let me know … I need to update Saena about all this

Sho: Don't tell her … I will do it myself!

Yayoi: what?!

Sho: I will meet Saena-san myself!

Yayoi: Well, if this is your way of taking responsibility of your action, then I will let you do it … just keep me updated!

Sho: alright … Good night

Yayoi: Good night! … and thank you for letting me know about this … we haven't had a conversation like this before … so I appreciate your honesty

Sho: I will try to be more mindful … alright … bye! (he hangs up and sits down in despair)

---

(That night … In Saena's Apartment)

Kyoko stayed in the bedroom the hole time, since they finished their conversation … she felt gloomy and unsure how to feel about the whole situation … but she was sure about one thing … She wasn't going to meet that man or his evil mother … no matter what happens!

Saena knocked on the door and entered … she said: Dinner is ready … come and eat …

Kyoko just nodded

Saena: I will wait for you … (she got out and closed the door quietly)

Kyoko was still gloomy and felt a little dejected … but she was grateful to her mother and how she handled the situation … she got up slowly and joined her mother on the dinner table, noticing that Todoh-san wasn't there … she asked: Todoh-san left?

Saena: Yes … he had another business to handle … one of his other clients had an emergency and needed him urgently!

Kyoko: I see … (she sat down and look at the food) then said: Thank you for the food

Saena nodded, then said: let's eat!

The two started eating in silence

Kyoko broke it saying: Thank you for giving me the choice … I don't think I would have handled it well if he appeared in front of me, out of nowhere!

Saena: Don't worry, I won't force you to do anything against your will … and … if you have any additional question, you can ask me … don't hesitate

Kyoko looked down and said: I think I need some time before I can comprehend all this … so I don't have any question right now …

Saena: ok … Take your time … no need to rush!

The silence returned … as they both ate quietly

After finishing her food, Kyoko said: Thank you for the meal … I will handle the dishes

Saena: Don't worry about the dishes … just relax … I know this might be too much … so relaxing might help you

Kyoko: I would rather get the topic off my mind by getting busy with something … besides … I like cleaning!

Saena: If that will help you, then I don't mind …

Kyoko started washing the dishes while Saena put the left overs away

Saena closed the fridge and asked: what's the matter?

Kyoko closed the water and said: I actually have some questions now … I just don't know If I want to ask them, though …

Saena: I will answer them with my best ability … so ask away

Kyoko: So … when you were feeling off for a week because of work… was that after you met him for the first time?

Saena recalled that event and said: yes … I didn't know how to deal with my emotions … nor did I know if I should tell you or not … it was all a mess … I'm sorry about that …

Kyoko: No … I understand … I would feel lost too … but … were you upset because he was married?

Saena: I don't really care … Married or not … I didn't expect to see him again … I think that the things that were said in that meeting were the things that upset me the most … its wasn't the fact he was married … it's was the ignorance … he really thought that my career was untouched despite what happened

Kyoko: How insensitive … that just shows that he didn't even check on what happened after he left … he didn't even bother!

Saena: I guess he wanted to escape reality by putting everything he did behind and moved on

Kyoko: you won't forgive him, right?

Saena: I don't think I can … I realized that I blamed myself too much for what happened … I'm guilty for ignoring the warning signs … but I don't want to blame myself for everything anymore

Kyoko: I wonder … will this give you closure?

Saena smiled at Kyoko and asked: that's what your concerned about?

Kyoko: yeah … I mean … after what happened with Sho … I felt like I got some sort of closure after I accepted what happened and I no longer concern myself with him or what happened … I might have said it before … but I'm proud of who I am, now … so no matter the journey I needed to take to get here … I'm glad I went through it … because I much happier now … then I was before!

Saena reflected, saying: Your right … perhaps … this is for the better … sure, life didn't go according to the plan I set for myself … but I realized that I'm happy here … and I'm glad you're here! … I don't have to forgive him … I just have to accept the journey and find a new way!

Kyoko: I don't know if you know this … but, do you think they will return to their home soon?

Saena: I'm unsure … since his kids are here too, he might stay here for a while … he originally said he was going to say for a month … but I'm not sure anymore … I just hope they will accept your response and leave peacefully

Kyoko: Do you think they will ambush us?

Saena: I don't know … but … as long as you stay around the people you know … they won't come close … I informed Takarada-san about our meeting and your response and he assured me that he will protect you and your wish!

Kyoko: Thank you ... The president is surely very caring … he's a very strange but kind man!

Saena: I can't disagree with that

Kyoko: You were probably stunned by what you saw the other day … he's wild … he wears the weirdest customs and does the craziest things … but he's very caring!

Saena: Well, Tokyo has its own crazy side … filled with people who do outrages things … but sometime I find it interesting … compared to Kyoto, which is consistently the same!

Kyoko: yeah … after coming here, I've seen more weird things compared to the things I've seen in my 15 years living in Kyoto … Kyoto never changed indeed!

Missing her hometown, Saena asks: would you go back to Kyoto someday?!

Kyoko: Hmm … I guess I would return to Kyoto for a visit … I don't think I would hesitate to take a job that will require me to travel back there for a while ... It our hometown after all!

Saena agreed saying: yeah … a visit would be nice … I don't need to avoid returning anymore … maybe … we can visit Kyoto together one day!

Kyoko smiled and said: I would love that!

Saena: Do you have any more questions?

Kyoko: Umm …well … After I heard what that person's wife did for you … I sort of feel bad for not wanting to meet her … I just can't wrap my head around the whole thing yet … but … do you think I did the right thing?

Saena: I'm not sure there is a right answer … but … at the same time … the right choice is the choice that makes you happy … if your happy with your choice and you don't regret it … then it should be the right one … that's how I view it!

Kyoko: That makes sense

The two talked about other things for a little bit more … then they went to bed because it was getting late

---

(The Next Day)

Saena woke up and found Kyoko clinging onto her … she tried to get up, but she couldn't loosen Kyoko's grip … she looked at the time, and it was still 6 am in the morning … so she stayed in bed for a little while … Kyoko naturally loosened her grip as she changed sleeping positions, so Saena was finally free

She did however notice that Kyoko wasn't completely comfortable … it seemed like she was having nightmares that kept her from having a good night sleep

She got up at around 7 and started making breakfast … once she was done preparing it … she went back to the bedroom to call Kyoko

Kyoko was still asleep and despite the sunrays peaking in from the sides of the windows ... she turned and hid under the sheets

Saena approached Kyoko and tried to wake her up … but Kyoko was unwilling … she just mumbled incohesive words as she tried to reposition herself in a more comfortable sleeping position

Understanding that Kyoko wanted to sleep on … she left the room and sat down with some documents to look over … she decided to wait for Kyoko, so they could eat breakfast together

Time went by quickly … and nearly 3 hours later … Kyoko was still not out of bed … Unsure of what she should do, she went to check on Kyoko once more

Entering the bedroom … she noticed that Kyoko was finally awake … but she hasn't got out of bed, so she said: You seem tired …

Kyoko looked at her mother and just nodded

Concerned, Saena asks: don't you want to have breakfast?

Kyoko thought a little bit then nodded again … but she didn't move out of bed

Saena approached Kyoko and said: Breakfast is ready … I will heat it up while you freshen up

Still tired, Kyoko asks: what time is it?

Saena: It's 10 in the morning

Surprised, Kyoko said: oh … I didn't know it was this late …

Saena: It's fine … It's Sunday after all

Kyoko: I will get up now!

Saena: ok … (she leaves the bedroom and return to the kitchen to heat up the soup, then started setting up the table)

Kyoko got up and went to the bathroom … she then went to the kitchen and sat down sluggishly

Saena handed Kyoko her bowl of Miso soup and asked: do you want some tea?

Kyoko: No … I'm fine

The mother-daughter pair ate their breakfast silently and once they were done, they cleaned up the dishes

Saena dried her hands and put down the towel … she then looked at Kyoko who returned to the table, sat down, and put her head down trying not to think about yesterday's topic

Saena sat down facing Kyoko and ask: Are you ok?

Dejected, Kyoko: I don't know … I'm not really sure how I feel about all this

Saena: That's understandable

Kyoko looked up and stared at her mother, then asked: is it ok … your injury?

Saena: yes … I'm ok … you don't have to worry!

Kyoko: are you going to remove the stitches soon?

Saena: the doctor said I should return in two weeks … but … you really don't have to worry about it!

Kyoko: You don't have to hide it you know … I get that you want to keep your word … but … hurting you isn't ok … I'm not ok with that!

Saena: No one said I was ok with being hurt … I just didn't want to say or do anything to influence your decision … in the end … the past alone could have been the biggest influence on you and your decision, yesterday

Kyoko: Ehh … why would you think that?

Saena: My actions … I …

Kyoko: Mom … I understand your point of view … I know how it feel to be betrayed by someone you trust … despite all the warning signs … you want to believe someone is there for you for the right reasons! … when I made my decision, it was purely based on their betrayal and them not being there!

Saena: warning signs? … were there any from Sho-kun's side?

Kyoko: Plenty … I just turned a blind eye to it … everything became clear later on … I felt really stupid for not realizing Sooner … I know I was fooling myself thinking he cared about me … sure he let me call him Sho … and he choose me to come here with him … but …

Saena: you knew he didn't have romantic feelings for you?

Kyoko: Well … I've seen him kiss girls at school before … I just pretended that I didn't see anything and treated him the same as usual … one time … I remember he even asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up …

Saena felt bad for Kyoko, but she stated focused on their conversation, and predicted: and you said you wanted to marry him?

Embarrassed, Kyoko admitted by nodding … then she said: but then he called me out and said he hated girls like me who think like that and that I sucked … (she turned her head to the side) and said: as If I was planning to be gold digger or something!

Amused, Saena asked: Gold digger?

Displeased, Kyoko replied: He didn't say that particularly, instead, he said something about him being a celebrity and me just wanting him to take care of everything or something … like riding his tale … but that wasn't my goal at all … In the end … it turned out that he was the one who couldn't take care of himself and needed me to take care of him … Jerk!

Saena: I don't know what you were thinking when you agreed to go … but … I'm just glad things didn't go in a terrible direction … I'm not minimizing how hurt you got … but its far better than being stuck in a worst situation!

Kyoko nodded and said: Yeah …

Saena: when you two lived together … didn't you notice signs then?

Kyoko: Signs … there were some … something like him not coming home anymore … staying with his manager … only coming back when I'm at work … I saw him less and less, and even when he returns, he just snapped at me and would leave right away … the only way I could convince him to stay longer was to get him his favorite pudding!

Saena: That kid still likes pudding … so, he's so proud that he wouldn't request it from his manager, means he could only get the pudding from you …

Kyoko: yeah … he did complain that he's too popular to go the store … come to think about it … the last time we saw each as childhood friends was when he returned home to get clean clothes … I sneaked out to get the pudding, because I was sure he would leave … I managed to catch him before he left and convinced him to stay a little longer!

Curious, Saena asks: and … what did you two do?

Kyoko: we watched TV … he would watch comedy shows, because he was too embarrassed to watch them in front of his manager! … but then … Tsuraga Ren appeared on the Screen … he got really mad and left ... I tried to console him, but couldn't reach him, so I left a voice message … then got him his favorite meal from my job, and I went to deliver it to him, which is when I overheard him making fun of me and the message I left him!

Saena: So, what did you do then?

Kyoko: I confronted him Of Corse … But not before I threw the food at him! … I was very angry … I vowed revenge against him and he belittled me … and then I was kicked out! … He said he would send me back, only if his manger would take care of him and she said she was already doing so!

Saena: I see ... wait, you said she? ... his manager is a female?

Kyoko: yes … Her name is Shoko … she's his type … Sexy women with large breasts … like every other around him … his producer … and that girl …

Saena: as in the girl who came to the hospital?

Kyoko: yes …

Saena: Surrounding a young boy like him with women like that … I just hope he stays out of trouble!

Smiling, Kyoko: I doubt it!

Saena: In any case … you have no work today?

Kyoko: Yeah … My work on the next project starts tomorrow

Saena: I see … (she remembered something and wanted to say something)

Kyoko however reacted to something and looked around with a frightened look on her face

Concerned, Saena: what's wrong?

Kyoko: ah! … Nothing … I just felt something suddenly … I don't know how to explain it!

Saena: Are you cold? … it's gotten colder here for some reason! (she gets up and checks the apartment's temperature)

Kyoko: Cold? … maybe … I wonder if there is a problem with the cooling system

Saena doesn't see any changes and thinks (I've got goosebumps all over … but … it's not even that cold …what is happening?)

Kyoko thought to herself (that's the second time I feel this way … suddenly I feel like I'm being watched … but My mom is here … so it's doesn't make sense … Maybe I'm over reacting!)

*** Nanami started watching them, LIVE, causing Kyoko to start feeling like she's being watched and Saena got goosebumps ***

Saena: I wonder if I should have someone take a look … northing changed here!

Kyoko: that might be a good Idea …

Saena: In any case … If I remember correctly … you have something to do tonight? … that cooking arrangement?

Shocked, Kyoko slumps down on the table and says: I forgot! … (she then stands up) and asks: what time is it?!

Saena: It's nearly 12 pm … you still have plenty of time before it gets dark!

Kyoko: But I have to go and buy groceries … I completely forgot about that!

Saena: Your buying them?

Kyoko: Yeah … I can't possibly trust him to get everything we need … he doesn't know the first thing about shopping for ingredients!

Unsure, Saena asks: How bad can it be?

Kyoko: The store he shops at is very expensive for no reason … and he thinks the more expensive things are better … that logic alone is flawed … I can't allow that to happen again … so I volunteered to do the shopping … he however will pay me back … since he insisted!

Saena: Then, we should get going then!

Kyoko: your coming?

Saena: We need a few things, since we ran out of essentials like eggs and miso paste… but I won't come if you don't want me to!

Kyoko: No … I don't mind at all!

Knock Knock

Kyoko: are you expecting someone?

Saena: No … let me check who's there …. (she opens the door and see's Todoh standing there, so she opens the door completely and invites him in)

Kyoko: Good afternoon!

Saena: we weren't expecting you

Todoh: I know … I came in a hurry, because I have good news! … We have a court date set! … not only that … we managed to convince Koenji-san to be a witness and a part of the whole case!

Excited, Saena asks: So, you obtained it?!

Todoh: Yes … We have incriminating evidence for both incidents … we have a solid case against that little devil … there is no way they can defend her now!

Saena breath's a sigh of relief and said: Thank you!

Kyoko: Are you talking about the case against Morizumi-san?

Todoh: Yes! … by the way Kyoko-chan … I need to ask you something!

Kyoko: sure … what is it?

Todoh: Do you mind testifying? … the video we have is enough … but if you want to Testify to anything that happened before the video was taken, you can do so!

Kyoko: Hmm … I don't mind … but I have make sure I'm free that day!

Todoh: I will give you the details once I confirm our date 100%!

Saena: You really don't have to … you know!

Embarrassed, Kyoko: I know … but I would like to come and see everything unfold, if that's possible!

Todoh: Don't you want her to come?

Saena: I don't mind … I'm just worried … that girl and her family should be present, you know!

Kyoko: You got her to come back to Japan?

Todoh: She's not back yet, but her family informed us that she will be back\a week before the court case!

Saena: Takarada-san should be informed about this too!

Todoh: I will inform him tomorrow … so we can coordinate our plan to protect you, no matter what! … However, I did tell the Koenji Family that we would visit them tonight to talk about our plan!

Saena: when will we meet them?

Todoh: We'll meet them at 6 pm!

Saena: Alright … (she looks at Kyoko) and says: we can go food shopping now, then we'll go our sperate ways!

Kyoko: Ok!

Todoh: Can I lend a hand … since your car isn't back yet?

Saena: I can't possibly inconvenience you with that!

Todoh: Mogami … that's not an inconvenience at all … I'm free, and have nothing to do … so I don't mind lending a helping hand … wouldn't it be a hassle to waste a hefty sum on a taxi?!

Saena: Kyoko isn't going back home after that … she has to go elsewhere!

Todoh: That's ok … I can drive her there … when do you need to be there, Kyoko-chan?

Kyoko: I agreed to arrive there between 4 and 5 pm … so I'm not in a rush

Todoh: alright … We can even make it to lunch together! … See … it will all work out!

Saena nodded then said: we should get dressed then!

Kyoko: ok …

Saena: you go first!

Kyoko: alright … (she goes to the bedroom to take her clothes and then goes to the bathroom to change)

Todoh: Everything ok?

Saena: yeah … it seems fine at least! … she is however still concerned about the injury … she won't stop staring at it!

Todoh: Well, it's a fact that a child wouldn't like to see their parent hurt!

Saena: Isn't it the other way around … seeing what happened a while ago with her ending up in the hospital!

Todoh: That's true … you seemed utterly overwhelmed by that … I don't blame you … that wasn't an easy thing to go through … however, in the end, I would assume it goes both ways … we don't like to see our parents get hurt as much as we don't want our kids to get hurt … right?

Saena: That's true … I forgot that I also had parents that I worried about before they passed on

Todoh: Anyway … I'm glad she looks fine … you were so stressed about the whole thing!

Saena: Can you blame me?

Todoh: No … but … are you cold?

Saena: Not really why? … are you?

Todoh: No … but you acting as if your cold!

Saena had her hand around herself, the same why someone who's cold would ... she then puts her hands down and said: I thought I was cold because I had goosebumps … but in reality … I'm not really that cold

Todoh: Hmm … that's odd!

Kyoko comes out and says: I'm ready!

Saena then goes to change in the bedroom … but changed her mind and took her clothes and went to the bathroom to change

Confused, Todoh: What's up with you two?!

Kyoko: what's wrong?

Todoh: Why do you change in the bathroom instead of the bedroom? … are you too self-conscious?

Kyoko: Not quite … I just feel more secure changing in the bathroom … is that a bad thing?

Todoh: Not really … but I find it slightly odd … I mean … If you don't like changing in front of someone, I would understand that … but it's only you two here … and you were alone in the bedroom!

Embarrassed, Kyoko says: I don't know how to explain it!

Todoh: don't mind me … I was just curios! … say Kyoko-chan … do you want eat anything specific for lunch?

Kyoko: No … I'm not a picky eater … so I would eat almost anything!

Saena leaves the bathroom and approaches them as she hears what their talking about

Smiling, Todoh asks jokingly: Even Fried frogs?

Kyoko horrified: What up with Men wanting to eat frogs?!

Smiling, Todoh asks: Huh? … has someone ever suggest that to you before?!

Kyoko: Tsuraga-san once did … I told him I would eat anything, so he suggested we go eat that!

Saena: Well … that's a common thing some men around here say … because they want their partners to choose instead of saying "anything"!

Todoh: yup!

Kyoko: So, you're not serious about eating frogs?

Saena: This guy is too much of a picky eater … he wouldn't come close to eating frogs

Todoh: I bet someone people would enjoy such delicacy… I wouldn't! … want wrong with eating normal things like Beef and chicken!

Kyoko: That's Right!

Saena: let's get going, shall we!

Todoh: we shall!

Kyoko smiled happily as she followed them out … forgetting about the things that upset her yesterday

---

(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Kioshi: You asked for me?

Nanami: Did you play with the settings?

Kioshi: I didn't even touch your set-up … what's wrong?

Nanami: Nothing has been recorded from yesterday! … I don't understand … I remember setting it up to record when I'm not watching!

Smiling, Kioshi says: I wouldn't know … I haven't touched anything!

Nanami: Why are you smiling? … are you perhaps happy that I couldn't record the meeting?!

Kioshi: We already have the audio for it … what more do you need?

Nanami: I can't trust that women … she definitely said or did something to make that girl choose not to meet us!

Kioshi: It's clear to me that she isn't interested in meeting me, because of what I did … I've accepted that … we just have to move on and enjoy the rest of our vacation, before returning to America!

Irritated, Nanami: Are you already giving up?

Kioshi: look, I don't want to force her to meet me against her will … she might change her mind in the future … but for now … I want to focus on My wife and kids!

Nanami: She's your Kid too … or did you forget?!

Kioshi: I mean my boys!

Nanami: Are you going to leave me fight alone?!

Kioshi: you need to give her time … all this is too new for her … and unexpected!

Nanami sits down and says: I'm not a loser to give up … I will fight until I get what I want … and that means she will come with us when we return to America!

Kioshi: Mom … your being unreasonable!

Nanami: You don't want your father and in-laws to meet her?!

Kioshi: If she just learned about us and isn't ready to meet or accept us, how do you think she will accept coming to the US with a group, who she considers stranger!

Nanami: You just have to change that … I can show you the way … so will you help me?!

Kioshi: I will only help in the things I think are ok … I don't want to do anything that will increase the dislike Kyoko has for me!

Nanami: Stop calling her that … she's not going to be Kyoko for long … start thinking of a better name … Once we take her, she will change her name and become a popular celebrity in Hollywood! … Japan is no good … She needs to look further!

Kioshi didn't like what his mother was saying, so he sighed and looked down thinking (That again?), then he said: anything else?!

Nanami: Aren't you going to watch with me?!

Kioshi: No … I'm not that interested!

Nanami: Don't you want to see how she'll react today?!

Kioshi: Fine … but just for a short bit!

Nanami opens the Camera program and restarts the system … so she can reset the settings that were somehow changed

*** The two younger boys accidently changed the options while playing with the iPad"

Seeing how Kyoko reacted, Kioshi asks: Can they sense it?!

Nanami: No … The Cameras are hidden well!

Kioshi: But she reacted the moment the Camera turned on!

Nanami: Maybe something happened before the Camera turned on!

Shortly after that, Kioshi sees Saena opening the door and letting Todoh in and got upset, so he said: Why is he there again! … what the hell is his issue?!

Nanami smiled happily … because she knew that Todoh was the man who will get her son to do what she wants … as much as she disliked him, she needed him to anger her son enough to make a move

Kioshi: Doesn't it seem like he's trying to stay close to them?! … can't he just do his work alone?!

Nanami: Is this a different case then the poisoning one?

Kioshi: I don't know!

Nanami: Who are Koenji and Morizumi?

Kioshi goes to the internet and searches them and says: they are both big families in the Showbiz industry! … It seems that recently a member of the Morizumi family retired … she's the same age as Kyoko!

Nanami: what are they up to, I wonder?!

Kioshi: There are not many details online!

Nanami: Hmmm … this is puzzling!

Kioshi became a little worried about Kyoko … when her safety was discussed … he asked: I wonder why they are so worried … is it because she was poisoned?

Nanami: Could be … this girl must be weak … she can't protect herself … and her mother is careless enough to let her get poisoned … her mother can't protect her … only we can!

The topic changed, and Todoh offered to take Kyoko and Saena out, which upset Kioshi even more

Nanami: Here is insisting to stay by their side … its clearly evident that he's trying to take your place!

Furious, Kioshi declares: I won't allow him!

Nanami thought (great … He's all riled up … Jealousy is a weapon I'm willing to use to get what I want … and If that girl is my chance to gain more popularity amongst my friends because she's a celebrity … I will take her and use her to my advantage!)

When hearing that Kyoko was worried about her mother's injury, Kioshi felt ashamed … and the anger within him decreased … he couldn't disagree with Todoh's statement about parents and kids worry about one another … but he really wanted Todoh gone from their side … he wanted to be there instead!

Nanami noticed that Kyoko wasn't too upset about anything and seemed normal … so she thought (she doesn't need time … she looks fine … I'm sure that women did something to sway her!)

Kioshi on the other side was glad that Kyoko wasn't that upset about everything and hoped it would be good news for them in the future

However, seeing how Kyoko is getting along with Todoh-san was getting on Kioshi's nerves … he didn't like that and wanted to keep that man from taking his place in Kyoko's heart

---

Author notes:

Chapter 20 Ends here!

Koga and Kana joined the fight against bullying, and the Miyasaki's heard Kyoko's decision.

Is Kyoko really ok … or will all this hit her soon enough?

Finally, … Is Nanami only interested in Kyoko because she's her son's only daughter … or only because she's a climbing celebrity in Japan … will she be able to get her Son to follow her lead?

Thank you all for reading this chapter and thank you for your support

Reviews are much appreciated

Until next time! Jane!