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.

21. Chapter 21: Constant Reminders

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 21: Constant reminders

(Sunday Morning - Ren's apartment)

Seeing Yashiro pull out a script and leaving it on the Table, Ren asked: Is that Mogami-san's script?

Yashiro: Yes … since she's coming here, I thought I might as well leave it here for her since I wouldn't be able to see her until tomorrow morning … she should take a look at it before then!

Ren: Good point!

Yashiro: I will text her and let her know it's here!

Ren: alright … let's get going!

(they both leave the apartment, and head down)

Yashiro: Your stopping at the main desk?

Ren: Yeah … I'm dropping the extra key off, so when she arrives she doesn't have to wait for me … I'm not sure how soon I can return … so just to be safe!

Yashiro: Good point! … but I still can't believe you're letting her do all the shopping, at least do it together!

Ren: ah … well, she said that she didn't trust me in that regard … and the only place I shop at is downstairs … if I remember correctly, she looked dumbfounded at all the prices and seemed very uncomfortable … so we agreed that she will do the shopping, and I will pay her back!

Yashiro: Why didn't you just give her some money?

Ren: I tried to give her my card … she refused because my name is on it … so I thought I should give her cash, but I didn't have any!

Yashiro: How are you living in Japan without having Cash?!

Ren: I don't go to places that only require cash … so I don't usually have much on me! … perhaps I should change that!

Yashiro: You should totally change that!

Ren gave his extra key to the reception and gave them Kyoko's name, and showed them a picture, so he ensures they know who will be coming to pick it up later … he then texted Kyoko to let her know that she can pick up his key from them if she happened to arrive before him

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(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Kioshi: Are you still mad?

Anna looked at him, without saying anything … she then looked away and sighed

Kioshi: You won't talk to me either?

Anna: After I heard the conversation they had, I realized that I made a huge mistake!

Kioshi: What do you mean?

Anna: Sure, I believe that you should apologize for your actions and that Mogami-san deserves to get closure after what happened … but … not like this … I opened a door that even I can't close … I messed up!

Kioshi: Calm down Anna … your right … I should apologize for my actions … what you asked me to do wasn't wrong … you did nothing wrong!

Anna looked at him and said: I shouldn't have asked you to apologize … it was you who had to man up and apologize on your own … a long time ago … it wasn't my place to push you!

Kioshi: why so gloomy?! … you rarely do anything that you regret … but from the looks of it, it seems like you regret asking me to do the right thing!

Anna: I don't know if it was the right thing to come here … we shouldn't have messed up with their life and peace of mind … I don't know what your mother is up to, next … but I'm sure it's no good … she's unhappy with the response and she will do something … anything … to get what she wants!

Kioshi: She won't be that reckless … their lawyers after all!

Anna: So, assaulting a lawyer isn't reckless?! … wake up Kioshi! … she's not stopping there anymore!

Annoyed, Kioshi becomes defensive, saying: I know my mom does things on impulse … but you're making it out to seem like she's an untamed Monster that will hurt anything in their way!

Anna: I wouldn't dare call your mother that! … I have been nothing but respectful … I only call her out when I know she's wrong! … and you mentioned impulse … do you think all those insults she hurled at Mogami-san were just on impulse? … give me a break!

Kioshi: I agree that she didn't have to go that far … but the fact you think she will go beyond what she did to Mogami-san is too much … I will make sure to calm her down, ok?

Anna: You couldn't stop her then, what makes you think you can now!

Kioshi: I will deal with her! … I promise!

Anna: in any case … Count me out … The only thing I will do going forward is stand by Mogami-san … I have to make it up to her because I'm the one who started all this!

Kioshi: You didn't do anything wrong! … you don't have to feel guilty … if I never apologized, I wouldn't have found out about Kyoko!

Anna: That's exactly why I feel so guilty! … Not only did I bother Mogami-san … but her daughter is also impacted by all that … she was really upset, you understand that, don't you!

Kioshi: So, you would have preferred that I never learned about her?! ... your so worried about their feelings, … but why can't you consider mine?

Anna: I understand your feelings! … you missed 17 years of her life … if only you never hurt her mother like that … things might have been different!

Kioshi: I know I hurt her … I don't know to what extent … because she never explained what happened afterward!

Anna: She doesn't have to! … because I got the impression that she lives a very private life! … she's not going to complain to you either … she blamed herself for what happened, remember?!

Kioshi: yeah … Japanese people are more private in general anyway! … but for her to blame herself for not listening to my hints, makes sense!

Anna: Excuse me, so because you left such a terrible hint, she should blame herself? … anyone can put something in the wrong order … If you really wanted to warn her, you would be a little more obvious … besides, why would you warn her if you were still planning to steal anyway!

Kioshi: I was giving her a chance not to bring them back, so I would be unable to complete my objective! … because I didn't have the guts to stop myself!

Anna: It's useless to argue about something that can't be undone! ... I just hope she didn't suffer too much!

Kioshi: She's fine now … she is a famous and strong lawyer here in Tokyo!

Anna: Then what about Nakano-san's question … she mentioned that Mogami-san had a difficult time in Kyoto … she lived there… maybe she was no longer able to work there!

Kioshi: That can't be possible … if you can't make it in Kyoto … then it will be impossible for her to survive in Tokyo!

Anna: Are you sure about that!

Kioshi: we will know soon enough!

Anna: how so?!

Kioshi: Because my mom will get a report about her!

Irritated, Anna asked: Are you Serious … are you investigating her?!

Kioshi: My mom hired a private investigator … she thought that if we can find more information about them, we can approach them in a better way … plus there are a lot of weird things … so …

Anna: You just said that Japanese people are more private, yet you go behind her back to get information … I'm really disappointed in you!

Kioshi: Why me … it was my mother!

Anna: But, you're ok with it, aren't you?!

Kioshi: I was shocked in the beginning, but since I want to know more, the answer would be yes!

Anna: I'm warning her!

Kioshi: She probably already knows! … since the private investigator isn't getting much from the people who personally know her … like the Fuwa couple … we even met their son, the musician … but he also refused to tell us anything worthwhile!

Anna covered her face in distress … feeling very guilty about the whole thing

Kioshi: Anna?

Anna: After hearing Kyoko's response yesterday… I have to say that I agree with her!

Kioshi: agree with what!

Quoting Kyoko, Anna said: "If a man betrays a woman like that, he surely doesn't deserve to have a daughter anyway" … she's right about that! ... so, I decided that I want to stop trying!

Kioshi: Anna! … don't say that! … why should you be punished for my own mistakes … it doesn't make sense!

Anna: I'm your wife … if you don't get to have a daughter, then neither can I!

Kioshi: Anna … if that was true, Kyoko wouldn't exist, would she! … so, don't give up! … We still have a chance!

Anna: No … we don't have much of a chance!

Kioshi: Anna … it's not just me, you always wanted a daughter as well ... and the fact there is Kyoko means we might be able to have a daughter if we kept trying! … there is hope!

Anna: Hope? … your wrong, it's the opposite! … perhaps the issue is with me after all … I'm the one who's unable to carry a daughter full term … I'm sorry that I've disappointed you!

Kioshi: You never disappointed me! … Anna, this isn't like you! … you're never this negative!

Anna: Maybe my emotions are catching up to me …

Kioshi: Before we make any decisions, we must wait for the final report from the doctor, they are doing an extensive test right now … let's not jump to conclusions!

Anna nodded without saying anything … her emotions were all mixed up between wanting to atone for her mistake … and the pain of losing her recent pregnancy.

Kioshi hugged his wife, as he thought (I'm getting distracted from what's important to me … My wife and kids come first … I should really stop my mom before she does something … Anna might be right after all … this is all messed up and I need to do something about it)

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(At Lunch)

Kyoko: Thank you for all your help Todoh-san!

Todoh: No worries … enjoy your meal!

They all started eating their meal happily

Todoh: By the way … is your friend waiting for you?

Kyoko: Tsuraga-san? … No … he's probably still working … he will let me know once he's done

Todoh: How are you going to take all those groceries to his place, if he's still not back?

Kyoko: He texted me informing me that he left the extra key with the main desk … I can pick it up once I arrive!

Todoh: I see … good thinking!

Saena: Are you sure you don't need any help?

Kyoko: well, I can make a few trips up and down … so it's ok!

Todoh: Hmm … I don't want to interfere, but don't you think we could at least help you carry all the bags to the door?

Saena: perhaps you worried we'd be seen by someone living on the same floor, or worse, the media?

Kyoko: Not really … he lives in an apartment that takes up the whole floor, and the security is tight in there, so no reporters will be around … I just don't know if it ok with Tsuraga-san himself … since it's his place … but I can ask him

She takes out her phone and sends him a text without giving either of them a chance to stop her

*Ren was on a short break, so he saw checked his phone, and saw Kyoko's text, so he replied right away saying (Sure, I don't mind at all, I welcome them to my place, … make yourselves at home! *

Todoh noticed that Kyoko got a replay right away and thought (He sure replied quickly … he sure cares about her!)

Kyoko: He said that your welcome to come to his place … (she holds her phone up to them so they can see the message)

Todoh: That's kind of him!

Saena nodded and said: we should hurry up … you don't want some of the things you got to stay out for long!

Kyoko: ok! … (she then cheerfully eats her food)

Todoh sees that Kyoko is so carefree and cheerful, and smiles in relief … he thinks (I'm glad she's not too affected by yesterday)

After paying for the meal, the trio left the restaurant and walked to the car … Kyoko remembered something and said she would hurry to get it, and ran off

*In the Car*

Saena sat down and sighed, looking weary

Todoh: what's wrong?

Saena: maybe I'm just mentally exhausted after all that … yet I can't comprehend how cheerful she is now, although last night and today morning, she seemed dejected … her mood switches really fast!

Todoh: Maybe it's that guy she's about to see … Tsuraga … she seemed more cheerful after he replied to her text!

Saena: True …

Todoh: but at least she's not too affected … right?

Saena: Can we really say that? … maybe she's just pretending that she's ok!

Todoh: are you saying that because she's an actress and she can act as if things are ok?

Saena: I don't know … but as long as she's ok … then it's fine ... I still can't read her well!

Todoh: Hmm … are you concerned about something else?

Saena: I'm not sure … when we were talking, I noticed that she became wary of something suddenly … and … her habit of changing in the bathroom is sort of rubbing off on me, … I don't have an issue with that, but it worries me … she also keeps checking if the curtains are properly closed

Todoh: Is she worried about being watched?

Saena: That's possible … but I don't know what triggered it … she only started acting this way last week!

Todoh: were the curtains closed when she suddenly became warry?

Saena: No … they were open … I opened them to let the sunlight in … am I supposed to keep them shut from now on?

Todoh: I suppose it's good to test a theory out … keep the curtains closed for a few days and see how she acts, if her behavior doesn't change, try to talk to her about it … communication is key!

Saena: I suppose I can do that!

Todoh: alright … let me know if anything happens, I can check the place out if needed!

Saena looked at Todoh, then looked away and asked: why are you going this far for us?

Todoh smiles and answered: Because I care … but … if you want me to mind my own business then tell me off … I don't want to be pushy or anything!

Saena: Sorry … that was a stupid question!

Todoh looked at her and said: It's not a stupid question … perhaps I made you uncomfortable?!

Saena: No … it's not that … I'm just worried that you don't have much time for yourself when you going above and beyond for us … it's confusing …

Curious Todoh asks: In what way?

Kyoko however showed up and ended the conversation abruptly … when she closed the door she felt a weird tension between her mother and Todoh-san and asked: Did I interrupt anything?!

Saena: No … don't worry about it!

Todoh smiled and nodded, but he secretly thought (Yet, another missed chance!)

Kyoko: ok …

Saena: ready to go, now?

Cheerfully, Kyoko answers: Yes!

Todoh puts the address and drives to Ren's apartment building

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(At Ren's apartment building)

Kyoko and Saena took a few bags, but before they got a chance to pick up more, Todoh scooped all the rest and said: let's go!

Saena: Are you sure you can carry all that?!

Todoh: I'm fine! … I work out regularly … so I can carry much more if needed!

Kyoko: you're an interesting individual! … I wonder why Katagiri-san speaks of you in that way!

Todoh laughed and said: He always disliked my twisted personality

Kyoko: Sure, you said some very odd things … but your very kind overall … I don't see you as twisted!

Saena: Katagiri-san and Todoh-san have always been at odds with one another … it goes way back to when they first started working together!

Todoh: brings back some fascinating memories!

They all walk up to the front desk and got greeted by a man, who walked towards them, saying: Kyoko-sama … Tsuraga-sama informed me of your planned visit … he left this for you (he presented her with the extra Key

Smiling, Kyoko said: Thank you … but how do you know me?

The receptionist: I'm aware of you because I watched "Dark Moon" … besides, Tsuraga-san made sure we know who you are and how you look like, so no one would make the mistake of turning you away!

Saena raised an eyebrow in amusement, she thought (Here I thought Todoh-san was going too far to help us … yet, I find another guy who goes above and beyond for her sake)

Kyoko: I see … well … thank you! … (show bows down respectfully) then saying: I hope you enjoyed the show!

The receptionist: I did! … You and Tsuraga-san were great … Momose-sama as well I'm a big fan of the show! … I'm glad I was able to meet you and serve you … I will surely die happy!

Amused, Kyoko smiled awkwardly and said: Stay well … please don't talk about death, when you're this young!

The receptionist: ah … sorry … just a habit of mine … anyway … I was informed you'd come with two guests … can I be of any help?!

Kyoko looked at Todoh-san with a worried look, because he was holding most of the bags, but wasn't sure she should say anything

Todoh: I'm fine Kyoko-chan!

The receptionist: in that case … let me take this from you, Kyoko-sama … your Tsuraga-san's guest after all!

Kyoko tried to convince him to let her hold the bags, but he insisted … he then gestured them to the elevator … and walked with them to the door … he returned the bags to Kyoko and said: Enjoy your stay!

Kyoko thanked him and entered Ren's apartment, followed by her mother and Todoh-san

She then walked to the kitchen and said: you can put all the bags down … I will put everything away as soon as I let Tsuraga-san that I arrived!

Saena looked at the spacious apartment and thought (he lives here alone?)

Todoh put all the bags down and said: alright … we should head out, so we can beat the traffic!

Saena nodded and said: Take care and let me know when you're on your way home!

Kyoko: ok!

Saena waved as she and Todoh-san walked out and Kyoko closed the door behind them

Remembering something, Kyoko opened the door and called: Mom … I … can I ask you something!

Saena looked at Kyoko and nodded

A moment of silence passed, without anyone saying anything

Todoh guessed that Kyoko wanted to ask something private between them, and said: I will wait in the car!

Saena looked at him as he walked away … she had a feeling that she knew what Kyoko wanted to ask, so she walked to Kyoko, and talked to her …. Shortly after, she caught up with Todoh and left towards her place, to put away her groceries and get ready for the meeting with the Koenji family

Now alone, Kyoko sent a text that she had arrived … then she proceeded to the kitchen, to put everything away … because Ren wasn't going to arrive until possibly an hour later … after she was done … she walked to the living room and saw the script Yashiro texted her about and picked it up

She sat down and started going through the script … she stopped at marked pages and started studying her newly changed lines

After spending half an hour memorizing her lines … she flipped to the end of the script where she saw the newly added character names … she scanned the names until she stopped at one name … that shocked her enough to drop the script

Uncomfortable … Kyoko thought (why? … why?! … it can't be … just when I tried to forget, something like this, creep up?! … what am I supposed to do?!)

Kyoko no longer wanted to touch the script … although it was just a character's name … she was extremely displeased, as memories rushed back to her mind

Distressed, Kyoko laid down and closed her eyes, trying to distract herself from the bitter memories … and from all the information she learned yesterday

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(At the Karaoke)

Kanae: We came here after all!

Chiori: but it's not as fun as it was with everyone else!

Kanae: might as well sit down and have a chat … I don't feel like singing!

Chiori: me neither!

Kanae: by the way … have you heard from Kyoko?

Chiori: No … why?

Kanae: she said she will let us know when she was done with her thing … but she never contacted me!

Chiori: I wonder if it took all day?!

Kanae sent a text to Kyoko and said: let's see if she responds to this!

They sit and talked about a few things while they waited to hear from their friend

However, an hour passes by, but Kyoko has yet to send a reply back

Kanae: This is odd … she hasn't replied yet … she's supposed to be free today!

Chiori: Hmmm … If I remember correctly … she said she had something with her mother, maybe something happened!

Kanae: I'm not going to sit here and debate … I'm calling Yashiro-san!

(Phone call – on speaker)

Yashiro answer: Hi, Kotonami-san … I'm surprised you called me so soon!

Kanae: Hey … well … I'm worried about something, so I called you, since your Kyoko's manager!

Yashiro: What's wrong … did something happen?!

Hearing that, Chiori comments: he seems clueless!

Kanae: Did you hear from Kyoko today?

Yashiro: yeah … she texted me "OK" when I told her I will be leaving her script at Ren's place since she's supposed to help him with something later today

Chiori: Kyoko and Tsuraga-san will be alone at his place?!

Kanae: You heard her … answer the question!

Yashiro: Yes … but that's only because Kyoko will help him with something concerning his next role … it's somewhat a "Love Me request" … you see!

Chiori: Ugh … Boring … I thought it was something completely different!

Kanae: Did you notice anything new between them?!

Yashiro: sure … Ren still flirts with her … and she's taking it well … and … He called her by her first name!

Chiori: So?!

Kanae: He usually calls her Mogami-san … right?!

Yashiro: Yeah … but He called her Kyoko … not talking about her … but talking to her! … she didn't even flinch or correct him … they just talked like normal … but not normal … something changed, I can sense it … but I have yet to catch something big!

Chiori: So, since this is a love me thing she's doing today, can't you join them as their manager?!

Yashiro: I wanted to … but Ren gave me a break for the rest of the day … so, essentially, it's only going to be him and Kyoko there … which is good and bad … It good for them to get closer, but not so good because we can't see anything! … but you said you were worried?!

Kanae: I texted her, but I didn't get a replay yet … I know she had something with her mom yesterday … which maybe took all day, because she wanted to hang out with us and told us we'd hear from her … but I got no word until now!

Yashiro: that's odd … Kyoko is never this quiet… let me just check with Ren!

A few minutes pass by and Yashiro returns saying: She should be at his place right now … she texted him a little over an hour ago … perhaps she setting things up or something … you know how she is with phones … right?

Chiori: I thought she'd gotten better … maybe she left her phone on silent indeed!

Kanae: well … Thanks for letting us know … if you see or hear anything, let us know!

Yashiro Sure thing … Take care!

Chiori and Kanae bid him goodbye and hung up … then they looked at each other and sighed

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(At Ren's Apartment)

Ren Returned to his building and stood in front of his door, he was so happy to see Kyoko, but was slightly nervous … he thought (I wonder if We can live together in the future … I would come back home to her every night … and say" I'm home" … just thinking about the possibility excites me)

He took a deep breath and opened the door, he said "I'm home" … he took off his shoes and walked into a very quiet apartment … he wondered if Kyoko had stepped out for a little to bring something, so he walked towards his room … he looked around to find Kyoko asleep on the couch

He thought (I wonder if she got tired of waiting … she did arrive nearly an hour and a half ago … he went to his room to change and then got a light blanket to cover her

He smiled gently as he came closer to cover her, but he noticed tear marks on her cheeks … he covered her and then stood up and thought worriedly (what happened? … why did she cry?!)

He looked around to find her script on the floor, … he picked it up and placed it down on the table, then he thought (was she emotional because of a scene in this script?)

At around 5 pm … Kyoko woke up and sat down in confusion … she yawned tiredly, then looked around … noticing she was in Ren's place, her face paled … as she thought (what time is it? … how long was I asleep … I can't believe it! … how Rude of me!)

Ren walked out of his room and saw that Kyoko was finally awake, so he smiled and approached her saying: Did you have a good nap?

Kyoko went down on her knees to apologize, but before she got any words out, Ren stopped her

Ren, he hurried to her and said: I don't mind … I just came back anyway … I bit you were bored waiting for my return!

Kyoko looked at him, then looked down, saying: That's not it ...

Worried, Ren asked: Did something happen?

Kyoko looked at Ren again, then said: don't worry about it … It's just me overreacting!

Ren: about?!

Kyoko: it's not important! … shouldn't we head to the kitchen and start?!

Ren wasn't convinced … so he looked at the table and said: did you take a look at your script?

Kyoko jolted in surprise, then looked away … there was a pained expression on her face … it was mixed with a bit of anger and distress

Ren was surprised by that and asked: is the scene your filming tomorrow that terrible?

Kyoko: No … it's not that … I just don't want to think about it!

Figuring out that she won't talk, Ren switches the subject and said: what are we cooking first?!

Kyoko stood up and said: I put the recipe on the counter … everything should be perfectly organized!

Ren smiled and said: Thank you for all your help … by the way, how much was the total?

Nervous, Kyoko said: I don't know!

Ren: weren't you the one who went shopping? … just give me the receipt and I will pay you back!

Kyoko: The problem is … Todoh-san paid and kept the receipt … I tried to tell him that you're paying me back, but he just told me not to worry about it and that he would handle it!

Ren: Oh! … you mentioned your mother's car broke down, so that's why he's helping around?

Kyoko: well yes!

Ren: He's your mother's Co-worker? … is he free today, that's why he came to help around?

Kyoko: well … He and my mother are going to meet the Koenji family later today, he came to inform her about the case updates and offered to help!

Ren: This isn't a concern, but he seems really caring towards you and your mother!

Kyoko: yeah … that's true!

Ren: I should contact him to discuss my options … I can't have him pay for my expenses!

Kyoko: Do you need his contact information?

Ren: Don't worry about it … I already have it!

Kyoko: how so?

Ren: when you were hospitalized, he gave me his business card

Kyoko: I see!

Ren: let's get cooking then!

Kyoko nodded and headed towards the kitchen with Ren … she started explaining the first recipe to him … and said: do you want to start chopping the vegetables?

Ren: Sure!

Kyoko showed him to cut each vegetable and how he can get consistent shapes and sizes

Ren: Mind if I play some music while we prepare the food!

Kyoko: No!

Ren clicks start and music starts playing … they both cut the ingredients together, danced as they moved through the kitchen, and sang along with the lyrics

Once, they finished preparing the first dish, they started preparing the second … Kyoko taught Ren all the techniques he needed to learn, and Ren being a fast learner, picked up the skills rapidly

Kyoko: You're doing great!

Ren: That's because you're a great teacher!

Kyoko smiled and said: Thank you!

There were times where Kyoko stopped and stared blankly, before shaking her head then returns to what she was doing … That didn't go unnoticed … Ren was concerned, so he thought a little then …

Ren: Say … should we switch up the menu today?

Kyoko: I don't mind, as long as we have enough ingredients for it!

Ren: Do you remember when I cooked that Maui rice … I want to learn how to cook it properly!

Kyoko looked around and said: I think we have what we need … but which dish do you want to disregard?

Ren: We can keep these for another time (showing her a few recipes that he no longer feels like cooking today)

Kyoko: Sure! … I was sure that we couldn't cook everything today … because it would too much food anyways!

Ren: Yeah … We got really excited about it!

Kyoko chuckled and said: alright … let me show you how to cook Omurice!

Ren nodded and smiled happily, he was really happy he can spend time with her … as he really enjoyed the company of his beloved

Kyoko felt very relaxed around Ren, making her forget about all her worries and concern … she was carefree around him … singing and enjoying her time with the man she loved

Once Ren's playlist came to an end, random songs started playing … which they both didn't mind, as they were discovering new music that sounded great … they were just enjoying listening to good music while they cooked a few dishes that they will enjoy eating together

Kyoko: who is that singer … their music sounds great!

Ren: That's …. (he checks his phone) … Owl city!

The song Kyoko liked was "fireflies" … another song started played afterward's which was "Good time" with Carly Rae Jepsen … which Kyoko also really like … however, the next song that played was "Not all heroes wear capes"

It went something like this:

He doesn't fight crime

Or wear a cape

He doesn't read minds

Or levitate

But every time my world needs saving

He's my Superman

Some folks don't believe in heroes

'Cause they haven't met my dad

Hearing that, Kyoko looked visibly displeased … she became distressed … and anger started seeping in … as she was trying her hardest to act like normal … the script and now the music is reminding her of something she wanted to forget so much … she started chopping the vegetables angrily, which produced a loud sound each time she cut through the carrot

Ren noticed how upset Kyoko became and felt a little confused … he had listened to this song before, and didn't think it had anything specific to upset Kyoko… he loved this song, because it sort of reminds him of his father

He called Kyoko because he worried she might injure herself while violently chopping up the vegetables, saying: Kyoko! … Kyoko?! …. Kyoko?! …. Mogami-san?!

She however didn't respond to him, as she was lost in her thought thinking (This sucks … everywhere I go, I get reminded by this … I can't focus on anything anymore … I don't know what to do! … I …)

Ren stopped the music and called her again: Kyoko!

Kyoko snaps out of it and looks at him, then says: yes?

Ren approached her, held her arm, and took her back to the living room … he then gestured her to sit down, then sat next to her … he looked at her and said: Is something bothering you?!

Kyoko: Sorry … I thought I could get it all out of my head before I got here … but I kept getting reminded by it … I'm really sorry!

Ren: reminded by it?!

He thought (Could it be the script … it was thrown on the ground and she didn't pick it up because she was upset? … then she got really upset while listening to that song, … but why? … I don't know anything about the script … but … the song is about how a father is like a hero … wait … father?! … could it be?!)

Dejected, Kyoko only replied by saying: Yes

Concerned, Ren asks: You can't tell me the problem, can you?!

Kyoko thought about it for a bit … remembering that she did ask her mother for permission to tell Ren or Moko-san about it if she was unable to hide it from them

Ren: I understand … maybe this is a topic you can't talk about without the permission of someone else!

Kyoko: No … I got permission to talk about it … it's just … I don't know how to approach this topic … I tried to put it on the back burner … and stay cheerful … but my mind keeps going back to it … I can't help it!

Ren: Hmm … alright … should I ask you a question, to start things off?

Kyoko gets up and picks up the script … she flips through the pages to get to the page that bothered her … she handed it to Ren and pointed at a name and said: this!

Ren: Miyasaki Kazushi? … that's the name of your character's father, right?

Kyoko nodded with a blank look on her face

Unsure what to say, Ren just asked: and?

Kyoko: well … you remember in the hospital when I said that I knew the name of that person … but then I said I didn't really know their name … Hiou-Kun asked about that person's occupation since he only met my mother who's a lawyer…

Ren: yes

He thought (she said that person … instead of "my father" … does that mean she dislikes that person enough not to want to give him that title?)

Kyoko: The name I knew then is …. Well … (she takes out her planner and goes to the notes page and draws a table … she wrote down real and fake in the columns … first and last in the rows … then she wrote down Miyasaki in the (real, last) and Kazushi in the (fake, first)

Ren watched her as she did that and thought (does she know both … I thought she just said she knew the name, but really didn't … maybe, yesterday's meeting with her mother was about that?!)

Kyoko: Yesterday... (she went silent) … then continued: you know that my mom wanted to speak to me about something … and yesterday we talked … (she went silent again)

Ren waited for a little, but Kyoko didn't say anything … she just looked down quietly … so he said: this must be difficult!

Kyoko nodded and said: I didn't expect him to come back …. ever! … but …

Choosing his words carefully, Ren asked: So "That person" … came back?!

Kyoko gave Ren the planner and said: that's the name of the character … but it's also a mix of that person's real and fake name

She then took back the planner and filled the blanks with Misonoi in the (fake, last) and Kiyoshi in the (real, first) … then said: This is the name of the person … and this is the name they used to approach my mother 18 years ago!

Ren: He used a fake name? and pretended to be someone else?

Kyoko nodded, then said: It's very different compared to us in showbiz … we use assumed names for convenience of it and also to protect our family's privacy … but he used an assumed name for a terrible reason …

Ren: He must have done something awful, which results in your mother's actions towards you… early on in your life!

Kyoko nodded and said: You remember when you came to see me that night … after I watch that show, where my mother said that statement!

Ren nodded and said: Yes … I watched it too, with the president

Kyoko: My mom told me the reason behind … not in our first meeting … but when I was in the hospital … she did say that she was very angry with me for what happened with that guy, enough to consider removing me from the family register … but the reason why she said that statement was because she saw that person … she was worried they were the same person, so she tried to send them a message that there is no link between them … that sort of thing

Ren: But that person didn't see it and approached her?!

Kyoko: No … they saw it … but they approached her anyway … they wanted to apologize, you see … they thought that coming after 18 years is appropriate … I'm not sure if they're even sane because I think it's far too late to even show their face now!

Ren: They came to apologize for something wrong they did 18 years ago? … I'm sorry, but that's unacceptable … what were they doing all those years? … what prevented them from apologizing sooner!

Kyoko: I frankly don't care about what they were doing … it's meaningless!

Ren agreed: that's true!

Kyoko: I'm not sure how many details I will reveal … but I will tell you the short version of what happened!

Ren: Go ahead

Kyoko: My mom started working with a new team and was working with them for nearly two years when she met that person and they started going out … after one of her senior's transferred to another location, she was chosen to join a 5-year-old case … and a lot was hanging on the results of it!

Ren: 5-year-old case? … do court cases take that long?

Kyoko: It was a business case … there was a lot of going back and forth and a big court day was coming closer, where they hoped to end it once and for all … My mom who was new to it, so started working hard to catch up … she had a lot of material to read and understand … she started taking the files back home with her so can study the case in her free time!

Ren: was she not supposed to do that?

Kyoko: I believe It's prohibited ... but, … with her being the replacement to someone very capable at that time, her being the junior, new on the team, …. put a lot of pressure!

Ren: That makes sense … so she was trying to be well-informed and worked so hard to prove herself, as a member of the team for a very important trial!

Kyoko nodded … then said: she told me that she wasn't sleeping well, as she stayed up late working on the case … and everyone noticed, … and sense she was tired, that person suggested they eat at his place … so she did … and then she said she felt really tired and fell asleep

Shocked, Ren asked: so, he drugged her?!

Kyoko: It's probably just sleeping pills … but yes … she said that it was so sudden … and when she went back to work the next day, one of the disks was flipped … she thought that it was her who put it in the wrong way … because of how tired she was the day before

Ren: but, that person was the one who flipped it?

Kyoko: Most likely … the next time the disk was flipped, was when he came over to give her dinner, and she felt bad, so she let him in … she stepped out because of a call, … after he left, she resumed her work, just to find it flipped again … she started getting really worried and suspicious of him

Ren: so, the two times the disk was flipped was when she was with them … it makes sense to suspect him!

Kyoko: I'm not so sure, but I think maybe 1or 2 days before the trial … he came again to give her food, and she thought she could trust him because if he really stole information, he wouldn't need to come back … she took a shower, then she wanted to get some drink for her sore throat … so, he offered to get it

Ren: she made an excuse to get him out of her place, so she can check?

Kyoko nodded her head then continued: the desk wasn't moved … so, she was relieved … but after he came back, he got a call and he answered it … then he said he needed to do something and left … but before leaving her, he said sorry instead of the usual "see you later!"

Ren: then, he copied the information while she was in the shower and put it back properly so she wouldn't suspect him anymore?

Kyoko shook her head and said: No … he replaced it with a fake … she went back to check the content and found the floppy empty … she ran out but he was gone by then … she tried to call, but he turned his phone off, and deleted his number the next day … she even went to check his part-time jobs, but they didn't know anyone by his name

Ren: What about his place?

Kyoko: He was gone completely … he didn't leave any traces to himself … not even fingerprints or hair samples … nothing!

Ren: Fingerprints? … so, the police investigated the incident?

Kyoko: No … the police weren't involved, at all … It was Todoh-san who did the fingerprint and hair search … but didn't find anything worthwhile!

Ren: Todoh-san … isn't he a lawyer though?

Kyoko: Yes … but his family has a lot of connection with the police … in fact, his brother is a Kyoto police chief now!

Ren: oh … so your mom knew him since then?

Kyoko: yeah … he's been friends with her for the past 20 years!

Ren: Then … I can assume that they lost this important trial case?

Kyoko: yeah … they had no chance in winning it since the other side obtained the info … the Tokyo headquarters ordered a coverup … because if anyone learned the information was stolen from them, their whole firm will lose credibility!

Ren looked down and said: that seems like a very messy situation!

Kyoko: It sure was … Katagiri-san took responsibility for what happened … he faced a lot of criticism for losing … My mom felt terrible and responsible, because … winning this case meant a lot to him, as he was supposed to get a promotion to work in Tokyo ...

Ren: So, he lost his chance at a big promotion? … man, that's tough!

Kyoko: Not only that, … but instead … he and every one of the case team was fired

Ren: That's even worse! … so, your mother must have felt extremely guilty for what happened!

Kyoko nodded and said: she even collapsed in the courtroom and started throwing up … everyone thought it was due to stress and Trauma … but … that wasn't the case … she turned out to be pregnant with … (she pointed at herself) and said: me!

Silence took over the room for a couple of minutes

Ren was lost deep in thought, thinking (most women in her situation would choose abortion, but I can't possibly say anything about that … because I love Kyoko and can't imagine a life without anymore … perhaps abortion is illegal here? … at least at a certain stage … this is such a terrible turn of events!)

Kyoko knew that it would be hard to comment on that …so she said: I know what you're thinking! … most women in such a situation would choose abortion!

Ren: She couldn't do that, because of her job as a lawyer?!

Kyoko: She could … as far as I was told, the time limit to have one was around 5 months … that's when my mom learned of the pregnancy … she had such a short time to find a place to do it … but no doctor would do it because she was weak both physically and mentally at that point … so, by that time, the period ended … and she had no other choice but to have me

Ren: So, that would explain why your mother acted that way towards you? … I know it difficult, but still, I don't think it's ok! … you knew nothing! … you're were an innocent child!

Kyoko looked away and remembered that her mother did attempt to commit suicide, but she wasn't sure she should be talking about that … she looked down feeling really bad and said to herself: I'm Thankful there were people like Katagiri-san, Todoh-san, and the Fuwa family … who supported my mom in her tough time … if it wasn't for them … Perhaps neither of us would be here today!

Ren was completely Stunned hearing that, he put his hand on his head and thought (she was that desperate?! … life wasn't worth living anymore? … I know how that feels to some extent … I didn't think I had the desired to live after what happened with Ric … but the president saved me!)

Seeing Ren's reaction, Kyoko anxiously asked: Did I say that out loud?!

Ren looked at Kyoko, nodded, then looked down … he then raised his head and looked at her once more, before embracing her with a tight hug

Kyoko was shocked but she didn't fight it … she just let him express his feeling

Ren: I once lost the will to live, but the president saved me … so, I'm glad she had people who supported her and kept both of you safe!

Hearing that made Kyoko hug Ren back … she smiled and said: Me too!

The hug lasted for a while … as they both stayed silent while embracing each other … Kyoko felt comforted by the hug, making her feel safe and happy in her beloved's arms

Ren let go of Kyoko … who looked away while blushing slightly, … he wanted to ask about her feelings seeing that … but decided to ask about something else: so, what happened then?

Kyoko: Todoh-san told me that my mom wasn't allowed to work anymore … which is why she went that far … she worked so hard to get to where she was … just for someone like that person to bring her down like that … she blamed herself over everything … not listening to the warning signs, putting her relationship over work … and the downfall of her boss and client ... she blamed all that on herself … so she couldn't imagine herself loving me as a child born out of the worst situation ever

Ren didn't agree with her mother's actions towards her, but couldn't say much, because he also blamed himself for what happened to Ric six years ago …

Kyoko: So … Katagiri-san opened his own law office and gave my mother a chance to work again … he also introduced her to his younger sister, who is Yayoi-san … Sho's mothers

Ren: So that's why you grew up together with him?!

Kyoko: yeah … My mom was so afraid that she would hurt me … so I was put there, for the sake of protecting me … She then moved to Tokyo when I was around 7 years old … that's when she finally got back on her feet completely … I guess us being away from each other at that time was for the best!

Ren: She told you all that in your meeting back in April?

Kyoko: Yes! … I feel like I can understand her a little better now … because I was also backstabbed by someone I thought I liked … however, my experience was trivial compared to hers! … but in the end … I'm glad I had all those experiences … no matter how bad … because now I have a better understanding of her as my mother and it made it easier for me to forgive her actions towards me in the past!

Ren: well … I see what you mean … I'm pleased things changed for the best! … since you two live together and get along well!

Kyoko: Me too! … besides … I know it sounds bad saying this … but if my mom wasn't hard on me back then … I don't think I would have run into you in Corn's forest! … so, I'm ok with what happened back then! … hehe!

Ren smiled brightly and said: I guess it's fate … no matter what happens … bitter times do lead us to fight for a brighter future … we just had to go through whatever it was … now we're here in a better place …and were together again!

Kyoko nodded happily … but then, her smile disappeared as she remembered that persons return

Ren: so, does that person know about you?!

Kyoko nodded and said: you remember that I was hospitalized? … He saw her with me … at first, he thought she was my lawyer … but then … he saw you calling me Mogami and then he saw me calling her mom … so … he learned I was not a client but her daughter … then he learned about my age … my family name and age were the biggest indicators to him, that I might be his … so he met my mother again to ask her about me

Ren: What's wrong with your family name?

Kyoko: It's the same as my mother … most kids get their father's family name … so it's unusual to have a kid that has the same family name as the mother … he knew my mom's name, so he was probably sure she didn't get married

Ren: I see! … since it's uncommon, he easily guessed the situation!

Kyoko: I should've just let you call me by my first name like everyone else … but, it's wouldn't have mattered, would it?

Ren: Since he saw you calling her mother … it wouldn't have changed a thing if I called you Kyoko or Mogami!

Kyoko nodded and then said: I really don't know how to feel about all this … but, many things become clearer now

Ren: like?

Kyoko: why my mom was acting weird shortly after returning to work … she seemed off for a whole week, so I thought maybe me moving in was affecting her … and I was thinking of moving out … but Todoh-san told me it was because of work … because he also didn't know anything other than the fact she met a client, then started acting that way … towards everyone!

Ren: oh … so when you were feeling a little down, that was because you weren't sure what was going on with her?

Kyoko: yeah … but also … the injury I told you about! … it really happened on Tuesday … and it was after the meeting with them!

Angry, Ren asked: Are you saying he assaulted her?!

Kyoko: Not him specifically … but his mother!

Ren: His mother? … so, he came with one of his parents?

Ren then thought (so the three boys Yashiro saw, were they his siblings?)

Kyoko: He came with his mother and wife!

Ren: He's married?! … and he brought his wife to meet his Ex … who he deceived and hurt?!

Kyoko: It probably his wife who pushed or encouraged him to apologize … because she only learned what happened recently! … but … to think he was really married … not that I really care if he was or wasn't … it's just … he was living a full life with his family, wife, and kids … means he really didn't care about what happened to my mother after he left!

Ren: So, he never wanted to apologize until his wife made him do it?!

Kyoko: My mom said he did want to apologize … but … I don't buy it … if he felt an ounce of guilt for what he did, he would have come way sooner than now … besides … he was even rude and ignorant … as he thought her job was unharmed by what he did!

Ren: Seeing how successful she is now, gave him the impression that she never suffered because of his actions?! … when in fact she reached the lowest point in her life at some point? … that is truly ignorant of him! … did your mother tell him what happened?

Kyoko: I don't think so … I think she got really got upset by his comments and just told him off … besides, she's not the type of person to complain … especially not to a person like him! … I doubt he would even care … given he never came back until 18 years later! … he's not welcomed here anyway!

Ren: So, now that he knows about you, what did he want to do?

Kyoko: Yesterday's meeting was about telling me that he came forward and that he requested to meet me … but I don't think that's all … because they have their lawyer too … and the custody matter was discussed at some point!

Ren: you think they wanted to take custody of you?!

Kyoko: My mom didn't confirm that, but why else would they bring up the custody matter if they didn't want to take me away … Todoh-san told me that the Japanese law is on our side and that they can't take me or meet me without my mother's permission!

Ren: He already has his kids ... right?

Kyoko: Yes, I was told he had three sons! ... but I can't see myself calling them my brothers ... I lived my whole life as an only child, yet I'm suddenly an older sister to 3 boys ... I can't possibly accept that!

Ren: You don't have to!

Kyoko nodded and said: Although I feel bad because it's not their fault, ... I still can't see myself joining their family to be that person's daughter or an older sister to his kids ... If he wants a daughter, he has a wife to ask them for one ... I don't want that position in his family!

Ren: That's understandable ... they shouldn't expect you to be happy about all this ... you have every right to be upset about this ... I don't know about them, but even if they don't end up with a daughter, you shouldn't have to fill that place ... he decided to leave, so he has to live with that!

Kyoko: I kind of wonder if they had tried to have a daughter, and ended up with sons instead ... serves him right ... he doesn't deserve to have a daughter anyway! ... I feel bad for his wife, but ... I can't be the daughter they might have wanted!

Ren thought ( So the three boys are related to her in a way... come to think about it, ... the oldest boy who defended her last time, seems to be aware of things, and is upset with his dad ... but, can I mention that now, or should I wait for later?

Kyoko: In the end, it shouldn't matter to me ... I don't want to think about this whole thing anymore ... I'm also upset about a few things that happened in the meeting

Ren: like?

Kyoko: One, their lawyer asked some bothersome questions, and the whole meeting was recorded!

shocked, Ren asks: The meeting was recorded?!

Kyoko: Todoh-san brought a camera … and their lawyer recorded the audio and wrote down everything that was said … they did ask me in the end, and I gave them everything but the video!

Ren: But why would they record it?!

Kyoko: because they don't trust my mom … my mom mentioned that she was deemed untruthful based on the statement she said on TV … but don't you think they went too far!?

Upset, Ren answered: I agree … it's not like she will lie to them about your response! … besides … why would she do whatever they asked for after they assaulted her like that?!

Kyoko: Beats me … my mom seemed nervous almost the whole time … Their lawyer was also pressured to keep things from me … the only one without anything stopping him was Todoh-san, and he was the one who answered difficult questions because he didn't want my mom or their lawyer to be burdened! … My mom gave me the option to choose and was honest the whole time, but … she didn't say anything bad about them at all, even after what happened to her!

Ren: Seems like the recording of the whole meeting was to check if your mother tried to influence you! …I hope they finally understood that she was honest the whole time! … sure, I don't agree with that statement, or why she did it … but one instance shouldn't paint her as dishonest or untrustworthy!

Upset, Kyoko: That's exactly what I said … my mom has never tried to make me hate them, as she didn't even mention them … but they had the nerve to ask me to disregard the past and what happened with my mom and just think of it as "A dad who missed 17 years of his child's life"!

Ren took a deep breath and said: you declined to meet them, right?

Kyoko: Yes … I didn't want to meet him, or his mother who's also involved … and even the rest of his family! … but …

Ren: but?

Kyoko: I'm afraid they might ambush me or us … like … if they don't mind committing crimes and assaulting my mother … what else will they do?! … right?!

Ren: That's True … people like them can't be trusted!

Kyoko: I was told to stay with the people I know, and they won't approach me … but what if they still do … what do I do then?!

Ren: Do you know what they look like?!

Kyoko: No … I have never seen them before?!

Ren: so, no photos were presented to you, of how they look like?

Kyoko: None! … I didn't ask for any either … because I would rather not know!

Ren: It would be hard to avoid them if you don't know who's coming around, don't you think?!

Kyoko: I agree … But I still don't want to see them or anything … I still feel overwhelmed with all that … I feel lost and bothered by the thought of it!

Ren thought (so, it wasn't them who came to the signing … or did her mother not tell her about seeing them … I don't think it's a good idea to ask her, because she's still very upset about it, and I don't want to add more fuel to the fire!)

Kyoko: Perhaps … if I ask my mom to show Yashiro-san a picture of them … he can stop them from coming towards me! … would that work?!

Ren: I think that's a great Idea … Can I see it too? … so, when Yashiro isn't with us, I can still make sure they don't come towards you!

Kyoko: alright … I should talk to my mom about that then!

Ren reached out to Kyoko's hand and held it between both his hands … he then said: Don't worry, I will protect you, no matter what happens!

Kyoko felt safe when she was with him, so she nodded happily

Ren was really happy that Kyoko opened up to him and told him what was bothering her

Kyoko: but what should I do know … regarding that (she points at the script)

Ren: The character's name?

Kyoko nodded … then said: I wonder why they choose such a name!

Ren: With this movie, they are dependent on a writer, not a novel like in some cases! … in that case, it's either random, or they have a specific reason!

Kyoko looked at the table she drew … she ripped it out …. And crumbled it

Ren: I would like to help, … perhaps you can talk to the scriptwriter and ask them to change the name … or even the actor!

Kyoko: have you done that before?

Ren: No … I was never in a situation where I felt uncomfortable with names in a drama … but I understand where you're coming from … this probably hits you personally! … So, I'm sure the production will understand if you explain it to them!

Kyoko: I'm not sure I'm comfortable talking about this with people who don't know me and my mom personally … besides, how do I explain the two names without getting into details … it's my mom's story … and I only got permission to share it with you and Moko-san … because we can trust you!

Ren: Maybe we can talk to the president about this?

Kyoko: I know he liked to get involve and help around … but would that be reasonable?

Ren: don't worry, just call him and tell him what's going on … he will surely understand … I have a feeling he already knows something!

Kyoko: well, I can't disagree with that, because my mom told me that it was his idea for them to wait to tell me since they wanted to make sure I'm done with all the complicated stunts first!

Ren: alright then … I'm sure he can pull some string and help you out … maybe even give you advice about that matter?!

Kyoko: ok … (she takes out her phone and dials the president's phone number)

---

(At Takarada's office)

Maria: Are you done with work?

Takarada: Yes … we can go home soon enough!

Maria: say … do you know when Onee-chan will be back at the agency! … I miss her!

Takarada: She has a busy schedule next week, so I don't think she will come around … besides, it's best if we give her some time … she needs it!

Maria: Did something happen?!

Takarada: No really … it's just something private between her and her mother!

Maria: Is it about the same issue as in the past?!

Takarada: No … it's much more complicated than that! … I just hope everything calms down! … some things are looking good, while others are not too good!

Maria: I will take down anyone who tried to make my Onee-chan suffer!

Takarada smiled and said: She is truly loved by many … she can get through it! … don't worry!

Ruto: Sir … there is an incoming call from Mogami-sama!

Maria: Her mother?!

Takarada: Give the phone! …. This is Takarada!

Kyoko: Hello, President … I hope I'm not interrupting your busy schedule!

Takarada-san: Not at all, Mogami-kun! ... is everything ok?!

Kyoko: well … I have something to talk to you about … concerning my upcoming movie shoot for tomorrow

Understanding, Takarada-san asks: Do you want a break?

Kyoko: No … that's not it!

Takarada-san: is that so! … so, what is it? … how can I help you?

Kyoko: you probably know about the topic my mother talked to me about, yesterday...

Takarada-san: Yes … I'm aware! … Are you ok after hearing all that? … I'm sure that was a surprising topic, wasn't it!

Kyoko: well, it was shocking … and unpleasant!

Takarada-san: I understand … your mother did tell me about your response and I promised to help her keep you safe and away from them!

Kyoko: Thank you!

Takarada-san: So, tell me, what can I do for you?!

Kyoko: Well … Yashiro-san picked up my script yesterday and I got it today … when I took a look at it, I noticed that they added the names of the additional characters for the Movie

Takarada-san: Your Jumping around Topics … are you sure you're ok?!

Kyoko: they're related to each other … because … well … my character's father … their name is a mix of that person's names!

Concerned, Takarada-san asks: what's the name?!

Disheartened, Kyoko replies: it's … Miyasaki Kazushi

Shocked, Takarada-san: His real last name and fake first name … what kind of name choice is that?! … I understand why this is so troublesome … I can try to make a few calls and see what I can do … I'm sure you don't need a daily reminder of that person's name!

Kyoko: But is it possible to ask them to change it, without giving any specific details?

Takarada-san: It won't be easy … but I can try! … besides … can you tell me what your character's relationship is, with her father?!

Kyoko looks at the script again and becomes pale … she then answers: It's somewhat similar to the real-life one! … a backstabbing bastard … who did horrible things to both the character and her mother

Takarada-san: Send me a picture of that script and I will do my part and let you know what happens!

Kyoko: ok … Thank you … and …

Takarada-san: Don't apologize … I know this is a difficult situating … I've met your mother, the very next day … it's clear that you are both bothered by this!

Kyoko: So, did you see the injury too?!

Takarada-san: You know about it?! … I thought she wanted to keep it a secret!

Upset, Kyoko: I saw it … and I know it's his mother who assaulted my mother!

Takarada-san: I see … so she couldn't hide it from you, after all!

Kyoko: why does she have to?!

Takarada-san: They didn't want anything concerning her to influence your decision, and I get where you're coming from … they shouldn't have hurt her, to begin with! … You have the right to be upset about it!

Kyoko: Not only did the mother plot the plan with her son against my mother … but dared to assaulted her too … don't you think it's too dangerous to be around people like that?

Takarada-san: From what I understand, your mother doesn't want to involve the police against them, because it would mean she will have to deal with them over and over again, and that's something she would rather avoid

Kyoko: Even if they assaulted her?! … I wanted to ask more, but she doesn't seem to be interested in talking about the injury!

Takarada-san: Look … I believe that your father's mo….

Troubled, Kyoko interrupted: He's not my father … I don't have one … please don't call him that! … please!

Takarada-san: ok … I understand … the point I'm trying to make is that … that person's mother seems to have made up her own impression on your mother … so her actions were hostile from the beginning … she's trying to make your mother look like the villain who denied her son the chance to be a father to his only daughter … your mother and Todoh-san understand her tactics and decided against pressing charges because they won't fall into their trap!

Kyoko: She was one of the people who were aware of the plan … how can she pretend not to know what he did?! … wasn't he the one who left on his own violation … how could they try to turn it against her?!

Takarada-san: That's the issue they are dealing with … it's a tricky situation, but I assure you Todoh-san and her boss are on her side and they won't let you two down … I will do my part and they will do theirs! … ok?!

Kyoko: ok …

Takarada-san: I know you have a lot of questions, maybe not right away, but some will come up as you think about this situation … it won't be easy … but as I said before … it's an experience that you can learn from and use it in you acting! … so, don't let it get to you!

Kyoko: I understand

Takarada-san: alright … I will make some calls and let you know if I managed to get any changes done! …. Bye now!

Maria: What is going on?!

Takarada: I can't talk about it … but's it's going to be alright … Ruto, please give me the contact number of the production team from the movie Mogami-Kun is participating in, then take Maria home … looks like work will take a little longer today!

Although she was unhappy about that, Maria said: If it's for Onee-chan's sake then it's alright!

Takarada-san: Thank you Maria … I promise I will make it up to you!

Ruto brought the information and then escorted Maria home

Takarada started making calls to try to see what he can do for Kyoko's sake!

---

(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Nanami wasn't happy with the direction things are going … she didn't know what to do next, so she decided to call a lawyer in America to discuss her options

Lawyer: Hi, this is Nicholas Atwood, Family lawyer, how can I help you?

Nanami: Hi, my name is Nanami Miyasaki, and I want to help my son get custody of his daughter!

Mr. Atwood: Nice to talk to you Nanami ... To help you, I would need a summary of the situation between your son and his ex-wife

Nanami: He never married that women … she was an Ex

Mr. Atwood: Ex-girlfriend, I see … alright … go ahead!

Nanami: My son dated that …. Women … when he lived in Japan, but, at some point, he needed to come back home, so he can work in our family business … that women didn't take it well, and hid her pregnancy from him, so he never learned about his only daughter. … Something came up, and he went to Japan with his wife and learned that his Ex has a daughter … her age and birthday suggests that she was conceived when my son was dating that women

Mr. Atwood: I see, … were you able to confirm that she's his daughter?

Nanami: Yes … I met with the mother on Tuesday with my son and his wife, … and she confirmed that her child is my son's daughter!

Mr. Atwood: Have you requested a DNA test?

Nanami: No, because the mother confirmed yet, do I need to do a DNA test?

Mr. Atwood: A DNA would be solid proof, so I would recommend you'd ask for one

Nanami: Can It help us get custody of the girl?

Mr. Atwood: Before I can answer that, how old is the child in question?

Nanami: well …. She's 17 years old

Surprised, Mr. Atwood: oh, she's that old? … that is a difficult situation!

Nanami: What do you mean?

Mr. Atwood: I am afraid, but there is not much we can do in this case … she's nearly an adult, so getting custody of her is meaningless!

Nanami: She won't be considered an adult here until she's 20!

Mr. Atwood: That's not the law here, … we consider someone an adult when they reach the age of 18 … and she's probably a few months away from that, isn't she!

Nanami: We have nearly 6 months before she turns 18 … so what can I do before she turns 18?

Mr. Atwood: Let me ask you this first, is the daughter a Japanese Citizen?

Nanami: Yes, since she is a Japanese woman

Mr. Atwood: Well, your son can give his daughter American citizenship by issuing an American passport for her at the Embassy … that way, the girl would be able to come to America and see your family whenever she wants, she can even live there legally!

Excited, Nanami: really?! … she can get citizenship right away?

Mr. Atwood: Her Father is an American, so she is entitled to get an American Passport!

Nanami: That's great news, do I need any specific documents for that?

Mr. Atwood: Well, a DNA test confirming that he's the father is required to prove that fact, and you just need to get the mother and daughter to go with your son to the Embassy and provide the birth Certificate. I will send you an e-mail and a few links, so you can read it with your son!

Nanami: The mother needs to go?

Mr. Atwood: Yes … Her name should be on the birth certificate and since your daughter is still 17, … her mother should accompany her since she's her legal guardian

Nanami: That would be difficult … that women won't listen to us, or do as we ask! … is there any way around it?!

Mr. Atwood: I'm afraid not … this is strictly a legal process with the government … therefore both parents need to be there, unless one of the parents is dead, and in that case, a legal guardian that took over, would need to accompany her! … and I have to add, it preferable you do it before she turns 18 because once she becomes an adult, it would become a very difficult process to give her citizenship!

Nanami: I have a question!

Mr. Atwood: go ahead!

Nanami: what if she comes here to America before she turns 18 … can we do anything legally to get custody of her?

Mr. Atwood: Again, I'm afraid you won't be able to get custody of her, … because by the time any legal process is issued, she would be an adult by then … the custody process takes a lot of time, and I don't think you would be able to do anything before she becomes an adult! … your only option is to have child services look into her when she arrives in America, and possibly give you partial or temporary custody, but once she turns 18, you can't do anything!

Nanami: So, my only options are to get her mother to accompany my son and the girl to the embassy to get the passport or convince the girl to come to America before she turns 18, so we can try to get her to stay with us through child services?

Mr. Atwood: Yes, unfortunately … it would have been a different case if the girl was a little younger, ... but at this point, this is all you can do!

Angry, Nanami asks: Can Punish that woman?!

Concerned, Mr. Atwood asks: Excuse me? … what do you mean by that?

Nanami: Can I use the law to punish that woman for hiding the girl's existence from us?!

Mr. Atwood: well, … You can sue her in Civil court, but you need to have her come to America, in order to stand trial … your best option is to sue her in the country she lives in if it allows foreigners to sue!

Nanami: No way I could do that … she's a lawyer herself … She knows her country's laws better than myself … I need to sue her in America!

Mr. Atwood: It will be a very complicated process and I can't guarantee results! … especially since we're dealing with a foreigner who isn't in the United States.

Nanami: So, I can't even punish that monster of a woman using the law?! …. What am I supposed to do with all this anger pint up inside me?!

Mr. Atwood: You can, but it will be difficult and possibly fruitless … I'm just warning you because I don't want you to waste your money … I can refer you to a friend of mine who is more knowledgeable in cases like that

Nanami: You know what … thank you for the information … I'm going a different route, however! … I will destroy that women's career and she won't see the end of it!

Mr. Atwood: Ma'am … I understand you're angry, but I advise you not to do anything against the law because I don't want you to end in a situation that you can't solve. You must be careful with her because you mentioned she's a lawyer herself … it won't be a good idea to mess with her and her career!

Nanami: Don't worry, I know my next move now … thank you … I will contact you again if I was able to convince the mother to let us take her, so we can start a process!

Mr. Atwood: alright … I can help you with that if you are given permission to take the girl, and it will be easy and simple to give her the American passport, so she can come legally!

Nanami: Thank you so much

Mr. Atwood: No problem … take care!

Nanami hangs up the phone and throws it in anger … swearing curse words … she then goes to the screen to see if the mother and daughter returned, but finds the place empty … so she slams the table in anger while threatening Saena with a bitter and miserable future

---

(At Ren's Apartment)

Ren: Can you check and see if this is ready?

Kyoko: It smells amazing …. (she checks it) then says: It is!

Ren takes the dish out of the oven and then asks … should we reheat this?

Kyoko: We can do that … but first prepare the Egg mixture, so we can complete the Omurice!

Ren: alright!

Kyoko explains to Ren how it's done properly and although the first try was a slight fail, the second try was a success

Ren takes the plates to the living room and then returns and asks: Should we put the last thing in the oven?

Kyoko: Yes … you will need to put boiled water in the baking pan!

Ren seeing that the water started boiling, ...Ren turned off and stove and poured the water into the tray … making sure no water enters the ramekins because he didn't want to spoil the dessert.

Kyoko: Please Stop! … you should put it in the oven first … because if you try to carry this to the oven the water might accidentally mix in!

Ren stops right away and says: good point … I didn't put much! …. (he carries the baking pan to the oven and put its most of the way in, then pours the rest of the boiling water carefully)

Kyoko: Good, … now put a 45-minute timer and we can go eat while this cooks in the oven!

Ren: ok! … (he closes and oven and sets the timer, then goes to the living room with Kyoko)

Kyoko: Why did you give me the perfect one?! … you should eat it!

Ren: No … I want you to have it because it's all thanks to you I was able to do it!

Kyoko: But you should enjoy your own success!

Ren: They taste the same … they just look slightly different …. Here (he hands her the ketchup)

Kyoko: What should I write this time?!

Ren: Hmm?!

He thought of something and said: write Good luck to me

Kyoko: Ok … (she writes Good luck and draws a smiley face beside it)

Ren chuckled, then took the ketchup and wrote on hers "保護"

Kyoko: Protection?

Ren nodded and said: This is a spell to protect you from everything that might hurt or upset you!

Touched, Kyoko smiled while looking at Ren … then looked at her dish and smiled with a slight blush on her face

Ren: Shall we eat?!

Kyoko nodded and said: let's eat!

The two ate their meal happily, … they tasted the Lasagna, and they both enjoyed it very much

Kyoko complemented Ren, saying: This is amazing … I never had this before!

Ren: This is one of the dishes my Dad liked to cook for me growing up … this might be the same recipe because it tastes the same!

Kyoko: see! … you can cook! … you just needed a little guidance

Ren: Can we still do more cooking lessons shortly… I'm sure I still lack a lot of the skills needed!

Kyoko: We can surely do this again! … I don't mind at all!

Ren: Great! … we'll see when we're both free, and meet up to cook again!

Kyoko: the sounds great!

Ren suggested they watch Tv, while they waited for the dessert to finish cooking … while switching between channels, they came across a rerun episode of Box "R"

Horrified, Kyoko said: switch the channel!

Ren: why? … I honestly enjoyed watching the show!

Confused, Kyoko asked: why?!

Ren: what do you mean by, why? … it's a good show … you're amazing in it!

Kyoko: If feel embarrassed … I'm a very mean bully on the Show!

Ren: I understand that you feel terrible about the bully part, but a show like this brings awareness to how people bully others … especially in a school setting … and as far as I've noticed the villain loses in the end, right?

Kyoko nodded and said: yeah … I believe the last episode will air in 2-3 weeks!

Ren: I'm excited to see how this show wraps up the story!

Kyoko smiled and said: I'm glad you liked it!

Ren smiled and watched the episode with Kyoko, who doesn't usually watch the show's she's in

The timer went off, so the pair returned to the kitchen to check on their dessert. They both smiled as they put it away into the fridge to cool, and returned to the living room, to watch more TV … after waiting for nearly 30 minutes, they both returned to the kitchen and took out the dessert.

Kyoko: Now we need sugar and the torch!

Ren puts the sugar on top of the Crème brûlée and uses the torch to melt and caramelize the sugar

Kyoko: don't stay on one spot, because you don't want to burn the sugar!

Forging ignorance, Ren asks: how do I do it then?

Kyoko: let me show you! … she tried to take the torch away, but Ren refused to give it to her

Ren: I have to do it, right?

Kyoko: fine … (she holds his hand that is holding the torch and shows him the way, as she has seen a few videos, and learned a lot from then)

Ren smiled slyly, … he was really happy that Kyoko was comfortable enough to be close … and hold his hands … he secretly enjoyed the on-hand learning experience she gave him

Kyoko noticed that Ren was smiling as if he was enjoying it, so she asked: Are you teasing me?

Ren quickly answers: No! … why would I?!

Kyoko: because it looks like your enjoying this?

Ren cunningly asks: Should I not?!

Confused, Kyoko blushed as she looked away … then said: that's not what I meant!

Ren smirked then said: I got it now!

Flustered, Kyoko: You better!

Ren laughed then said: did I go too far?

Kyoko: No … it's nothing!

Ren: how do I know it's done? … (he put his finger on the melting sugar, and retracts it in pain)

Kyoko may have been flustered … but she loved Ren too much to be upset about a silly matter … she tried to compose herself while looking away

Ren: Shit … I think I just burned myself

Worried, Kyoko asked: You touched the burning sugar?!

Ren: I was just checking if it was done!

Kyoko took Ren's hand and rushed to the sink, she washed it with cool water for a few minutes

Ren: Sorry …

Kyoko: It's common sense not to touch something hot … didn't you learn that?!

Ren: I must have forgotten

Kyoko laughed while saying: Your so silly!

Ren smiled then laughed pitifully

Kyoko got the first aid box and put some burn ointment and covered it with a bandage

Ren thank her and then listened to her explain kitchen Safety measures … once she was done, they returned to what they were doing earlier

Kyoko: the trick is to see a shine … you have to stop the flame and let the sugar harden … then move it around to ensure all the sugar has set … that's how you know it's ready … don't touch the sugar while it's hot!

Ren: I understand!

Kyoko: Do you want me to show you an example?

Ren: I will do them all! … maybe you should check the one we did earlier!

Kyoko: fine! … (she checks it) then says: Look, the sugar is reflecting the light … it's shining too! … this one is ready!

Ren nodded, then said: Ok then … I will proceed to do the rest!

Kyoko watch him carefully, to ensure he doesn't get hurt again

Ren felt a lot of pressure … because of Kyoko's serious eyes watching him

Kyoko: You're doing well!

After doing the fourth and last one, Ren said: I'm done! …. (once Ren Finished … he carried two of the completed ones to the fridge … then took the other two and went back to the living room with Kyoko

Kyoko: This looks really appetizing

Ren: I didn't know it was this simple to make it … it always seemed like a delicate dessert to make!

Kyoko: Perhaps soufflé would be more complicated … since many errors can happen while making it!

Ren: Yeah … I'm not sure I'm interested in making that … if sounded too complicated!

Kyoko: well then … should we give this a try?

Ren: go-ahead

Kyoko breaks the sugar, then chuckles saying: When I saw the video about this, I wanted to break the sugar so bad … now I get to do it myself!

Ren breaks the sugar layer and says: that feels fancy!

Kyoko: yup! …. (she tastes it and then looks at Ren) and says: This is delicious!

Ren tries it and says: it sure is!

Kyoko: You did great! … really!

Ren: Thank you for all your help tonight!

After finishing the dessert, the pair returned to the kitchen to clean up … once they finished, they head back to the living room

Ren: Your phone is ringing

Kyoko picks up her phone and says: It's Moko-san … (she answers) saying: Hello, Moko-san!

Kanae: Are you still at Tsuraga-san's place?

Kyoko: how did you know?

Kanae: Yashiro told me because I called him when I could reach you!

Kyoko: you called me before?

Kanae: you didn't answer my texts!

Kyoko: Sorry … I must have missed them … I haven't really used my phone a lot, today!

Kanae: I thought we were going to meet up yesterday!

Kyoko: oh that … sorry … something came up … you know … my mom wanted to talk to me about something!

Kanae: Is everything alright?

Remembering the conversation from yesterday, Kyoko became hesitant, as she said: well … everything is fine!

Unconvinced, Kanae said: your lying! ... something is up! … I can hear the hesitance in your voice, mind you!

Kyoko: I'm sorry … it's just not a topic I want to speak about on the phone!

Concerned, Kanae: will you tell me what's going on later, then?

Kyoko nodded her head and said: yes …

Kanae: Did you tell him? … Tsuraga-san!

Kyoko: yes … I couldn't hide it, even if I wanted to!

Kanae: well, … we can both read you like a book, so that's expected! … but, is it bad news?

Kyoko: depends on how you perceive it … I personally find it distasteful … but I will do my best not to think about it anymore … because I won't let that consume me and distract me from my goal!

Worried, Kanae asks: is it that bad?!

Kyoko: I have a bad feeling that things might go south very fast … so, I'm worried … but I will tell you everything once we meet up!

Kanae: I have some free time on Wednesday … you can come over to my place and we can talk, how about that!

Kyoko: I have filming until nearly 7 pm … It is ok if I come afterward?

Kanae: yeah … I'm going to be done at 5 pm, so I will head home and wait for you there!

Kyoko: ok … deal!

Kanae: alright … just promise me that you will stay safe!

Kyoko: I'll do my best!

Kanae: ok, well talk later … and if anything comes up, I'm just one phone call away!

Kyoko: Thank you Moko-san!

Kanae: bye now!

After hanging up, Kyoko looks at Ren asks: what's wrong?

Ren: what are you worried about?! … what might go south?

Kyoko: well … I'm just worried they might hurt my mom again! … talking to the president just worried me more … especially because of how he described that person's mother!

Ren: say! … do you still feel like you're being watched?

Kyoko: Yeah … it happened today actually … me and my mom were talking, and then I felt like someone suddenly started watching us … it's an odd feeling

Ren: What did your mother do?

Kyoko: what do you mean

Ren: did she feel anything?!

Kyoko: She felt a little cold … although, she checked the temperature and it was normal

Ren: Do you think someone is watching you from the outside?

Kyoko: Maybe … the curtains were open for sure since my mom is the one who woke up early and prepared breakfast … she would open them to let the sunlight in … I know it's a good thing, I do that too … but I stopped because of that odd feeling … I just don't know what to tell her!

Ren: It's hard to test your theory if you can't keep them closed, … why not just tell her?

Kyoko: I'm not sure if it's real … or it's only my imagination running wild … I don't want to add to her worry … she and Todoh-san are both working on the case against the Morizumi, you see!

Ren: There is a lot of their table … so you don't want to worry her about something you're not sure of!

Kyoko nodded and looked down with an uneasy look on her face

Ren: Just ask her to keep the curtain closed, because you feel safer that way … I'm sure she won't mind! … maybe she will agree and that way you can test your theory

Kyoko: I guess I can do that

Ren: Although I understand you don't want to add to her worries, perhaps being more open and honest will let you two communicate better … perhaps she's feeling cold because she feels the same way … you never know!

Kyoko: Hmm … that true ... I should tell her … but give me a few days, just to make sure!

Ren: sure! ... I would appreciate it if you could update me … and perhaps you can also write down when you feel like you're being watched, so you have something to back off

Kyoko: Good idea! …and I will keep you updated! … thank you for the advice!

The pair spend a little more time together, then Ren drives Kyoko home … He dropped her off and told her that he will see her later!

Kyoko waves goodbye, then return home feeling more carefree and cheerful, thanks to spending a great time with Ren

---

(The Next Day)

Kyoko was picked up by Yashiro early in the morning for her first day filming the new movie

Saena woke up to find Breakfast ready for her and Todoh-san, and a note from Kyoko stating that she's off to work

After eating Breakfast with Todoh, they both head to work

Before arriving at work, they stopped somewhere, because Todoh-san needed to get documents from one of his clients

At the law office, Nanami had arrived early via Taxi, because her son was too tired to accompany her, and she didn't even want to bring him over because she didn't want him to stop her from doing what she wanted

At the same time, Nanami saw Sho Fuwa walking towards an older man, who she identified as Katagiri-san, she heard their brief conversation

Sho: You asked for me?

Katagiri: you're 10 minutes late! … didn't I ask you to come at 8, sharp?!

Sho: so, what if I'm 10 minutes later … I don't even know what you want from me!

Katagiri: I talked to your mom and I heard you talked to a man and his mother … they're from the Miyasaki family!

Sho: So, what?! … I was offered a chance to sing in America! ... this is a huge opportunity that I can't possibly miss!

Katagiri: You're such a selfish kid … my sister spoiled you way too much … it's all about you and only you! … what about your childhood friend?!

Sho: We're not friends anymore!

Katagiri: Because you messed up, and you know it!

Sho: Why do you all bring this up … leave me alone! … I know what I did, and regret it! … so stop talking about it already!

Katagiri: Just follow me!

Sho: why … why did you ask me to come here?!

Katagiri: Let's talk inside!

Sho followed Katagiri inside the building, and seconds later, Saena and Todoh existed a car and started walking towards the building

Nanami saw her chance and stood up … walked slowly towards the building as well, and once she was close enough, she threw an egg towards Saena

Noticing something coming their way … Todoh stood in front of Saena and protected her

Nanami: You lair! … you ruined everything! … you shouldn't have told her anything … what happened between you and my son is only between you two … why bring her into it?!

She kept throwing eggs at Todoh hoping that one will miss him and land on Saena, but Todoh was capable of stopping all the eggs by using his body as a shield

Nanami: You Bitch … you think you can trick me?! … don't you think telling the girl what happened between you two won't affect her!? … think again! … you ruined my son's chances to be a father to his daughter! … You can't deceive me!

Hearing there is a small commotion outside the office, Katagiri and Sho rushed outside and saw Todoh-san covered by eggs, while protecting Saena who stared at Nanami angrily.

Katagiri: This woman won't stop causing trouble … I need to do something about this!

Shocked, Sho says: What the hell is going on here?!

---

Author notes:

Chapter 21 Ends here!

What will happen next? … is this Nanami's real plan? ... and will she go even further because she feels like the law is against them? … is Kyoko right about her feelings about things going south? … will she face more trouble going forward? … and the Cameras … how soon will they be discovered? … more is to come in the next chapter!

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

Reviews are much appreciated

Until next time! Jane!