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.

24. Chapter 24: A Doomed Friday

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 24: A Doomed Friday

(Friday Morning – Saena's apartment)

At around 5 am, Kyoko woke up, … she decided to stay in bed for a little while as it was still too early to make breakfast.

As she lied down, she looked at her mother who was still asleep, and thought (I think I should talk to her about it today … but when is the right time?)

She sat down on the bed and rubbed her eyes, … then yawned, thinking (Maybe I can get a few more minutes of sleep… it's still early!)

** At this time, Nanami turned on the Camera and started watching … she was glad she saw Kyoko again, but … it bothered her that Kyoko and her mother shared a bed and started staring at Saena with evil intention thinking (If I can separate those two, I can finally get that girl on my side, … I'm willing to do anything in my power, even if it means that I have to make that women disappear for good!)

Kyoko grudges reacted to something ominous … they started circling the room chanting warnings to their boss, who was shivering in fear …. She froze in her place thinking (something is off, I can feel it! … someone is definitely watching us!)

Feeling cold, Saena tried to cover herself with the blanket, but she still felt cold … she slowly opened her eyes and saw Kyoko sitting down with a terrified look on her face, so she questions: what's wrong?!

Startled, Kyoko jumped off the bed and asked: you're awake?!

Saena: It's too cold to sleep … I'm freezing!

Kyoko thought (It is really cold … but it wasn't this cold when I first woke up!)

Saena: perhaps they didn't fix the air conditioner properly … or there might be another problem with it

Although deep down Kyoko felt that wasn't really true, but she agreed, saying: Maybe … we should contact them about this!

Saena: yeah … I will do that later tonight … we should see if it stays cold or not … so we can explain the issue properly!

Kyoko: ok … I will get up and start preparing breakfast then

Saena: since I'm awake, … I can help

Kyoko: but you cooked breakfast yesterday … and I didn't help at all

Saena: it doesn't matter … if we work together, the food would be ready sooner

Kyoko: ok

After cooking breakfast, they welcomed Todoh who joined them happily… they all sat down and start eating their meal in silence

Todoh sensed an odd atmosphere … but at the same time, he felt like he couldn't ask anything, because of the same atmosphere

*** At this point Nanami was burning in anger … her countless calls to her son were being ignored and seeing Todoh eating breakfast with those two only made her more upset, so she shut the camera off and got up, heading out to her son's room ***

A stressed Kyoko suddenly felt relieved, so she signed and smiled happily

Saena also felt more comfortable … the cold air dissipated, so she was no longer cold … she looked at the AC unit and thought (I didn't even touch it … yet now that air feels normal … this doesn't feel like an AC problem anymore … this must be something else … but what?)

She looked at Kyoko who seemed relieved and thought (She must have felt something … but …. )

She was interrupted by Kyoko's phone ringing

Kyoko: Hello … yes, I'm ready … I'm on my way!

Saena: leaving already?

Kyoko: Yeah … I will get going now … I'll see you at 3

Saena: alright … take care!

Todoh: Good luck, Kyoko-chan!

Kyoko: Thanks … (she picks up her bag, bows, then leaves with a cheerful smile)

Saena started cleaning up, and Todoh got up and helped her with that … they both stayed quite

Todoh broke the silence and said: You seem off!

Saena: Can you blame me? … I can't wrap my head about what you said yesterday

Todoh: perhaps I should've kept that part a secret! … yet, … why is it bothering you that much

Saena: because someone like me that can have children didn't want any, but …

Todoh: Mogami … if I wanted children that bad, I would've gone to the end of the world just to find a solution for my problem … but I didn't! … because having kids isn't one of my priorities

Saena: Still ….

Todoh: Look, … my parents sure want something, but that doesn't mean I want the same thing … sure getting married and having a child is the typical thing parents expect their children to do when they grow up, but … we all have our plans … If I get married, it will be on my own terms … not theirs!

Saena nodded without commenting

Knowing Saena's train of thoughts, Todoh continued: hypothetically, … (he looked at Saena … his eyes meeting hers) and then said: if I liked someone who already had a child, I wouldn't mind it at all …

Knowing where Todoh was going with that, Saena looked down trying to hide her nervousness from him … she was sure of his feeling at this point … but she wasn't ready yet to accept them

Todoh: Anyway … since we're done here, we should head to work now!

Saena: yeah … let me go get my things

Todoh watched Saena and figured that she wasn't feeling off like she did the day before … he however was still sure that something was going on, but he couldn't do much until either of them open up to him!

---

(In the car)

Yashiro: She's on her way! … Ren? … are you listening to me?

Ren was sitting in the back and had his eyes closed

Yashiro: Did you stay up all night?

Ren: It's not like I wanted to stay awake!

Yashiro: Are you sure you're ok, Ren? … your eyes are bloodshot red

Ren: I will get some sleep on the way to work … no worries!

Yashiro: Alright … go ahead and sleep … I'll tell Kyoko-chan to be quite

Ren: No need!

Worried, Yashiro looked at Ren and asked: are you sure?

Anxious, Ren just said: yeah …

He thought (I can't sleep until I see that she's alright!)

Remembering his terrible nightmare, Ren sighed trying to forget it … however … his mind went straight back to it

** The nightmare**

On a street in Tokyo …. Ren was standing with Yashiro behind him … along with Kyoko's friends Kanae, Chiori and Momose … they were all shocked and horrified … Maria was being held back by Lory and Ruto, while she screamed for her Onee-san

Two shadows were holding a Kyoko who had all her limbs tied and was blindfolded, as she screamed for help …

There was a car that was on fire burning in the background, and near it was 2 unconscious figures … they were Saena and Todoh, who were severally injured

Ren tried to come close but shadows pushed him away calling him out for trying to take Kyoko away from her family … then …. He heard … ren … Ren … REn …. REN!

Ren opened his eyes and saw that Yashiro was calling him telling him that Kyoko has arrived

Yashiro: should I cancel your first job … you won't be able to do it if you're that tired!

Tense, Ren said: I'm fine …

Skeptical, Yashiro glared at him, but couldn't say anything as Kyoko opened the door and said: Good morning!

Relived, Ren smiled at her with a heavenly smile and said: Good morning!

Yashiro noticed that Ren was no longer Anxious … so he thought (he couldn't sleep because he's worried about her … because he's worried that her paternal side might do something extreme trying to take her?)

Kyoko: oh … my mom gave me an envelope … it's for you! … (she hands a sealed envelope to Yashiro)

Yashiro: Thank you … this must have a photo of them … correct

Kyoko: yeah …

Yashiro: Can I take a look now?

Kyoko: sure … go ahead!

Yashiro opened the envelope carefully and looked at the picture

Kyoko watched Yashiro, to see what type of expression he will have

Ren looked at Kyoko, then he looked at Yashiro to see his reaction

Yashiro looked at the picture, seeing a man, a middle-aged woman, and an older lady … he thought (wait … this man … it's him! … and this woman … his wife? … she seems familiar! … but where have I seen her?

From Yashiro's expression, Kyoko concluded: you've seen him before, right?

Yashiro looked at Kyoko and said: why would you assume that?

Kyoko: judging by your expression! … I can tell that you recognized him as being familiar, at least!

Curious, Ren asks: Can I see it?

Yashiro hands him the photo while covering it with the envelope, so Kyoko doesn't see it

Kyoko watched Ren this time and saw a similar expression

Ren: This ….?

Yashiro: Can I see it again?

Ren hands it back to Yashiro

Yashiro took a picture and sent it to Kanae … but he accidentally sends it to the group he, Kanae, Chiori, and Momose are in …. Asking: don't they seem familiar?

Kyoko: Yashiro-san? … Tsuraga-san! … can either of you tell me something!

Ren: your mother didn't tell you anything?

Kyoko: I didn't ask her, … I simply wanted to see your reaction to it! … I'm right … you both seen them before … correct?

Ren: well ….

Yashiro looked at his phone as it started buzzing from the messages he was getting

**Messages**

Momose: who are these?

Chiori: They look familiar … but where have I seen them?

Kanae: aren't those two the couple we saw at the hospital … that woman is a fan of Kyoko's

Chiori: oh right! … she kept calling her Mio … I remember now

Yashiro: That it! … thanks!

Kanae: who are they … are they ….

Yashiro: did she tell you?

Kanae: Yeah … she stayed over on Wednesday … she told me everything!

Yashiro confirms: they are!

Chiori: you had a girl's night without me (Sad emoji)

Kanae: you said you were busy!

Chiori: sometimes I wish I didn't pick a career that keeps me busy all day!

Momose: so, who are they?

Chiori: are they the people who poisoned Kyoko?!

Kanae: No, but … their just … bad news!

Yashiro: all I will say here, is that … if you ever see that man or the old lady … you must take Kyoko and run the opposite way … also call me and let me know where you've seen them!

Momose: I'm confused

Kanae: Yashiro-san … focus on your job … I will get those two up to speed with the situation!

Kyoko: if you're not talking, then … let me ask this … this man was in the signing event for "Dark Moon" … correct?

Yashiro looked at Kyoko and nodded saying: I saw him … I noticed that your mother was staring at someone, she looked upset! … that person stopped coming closer when he saw your mother!

Kyoko Assured: I knew it!

Yashiro: I also saw him in the hospital … his wife talked to both Kotonami-san and Amamiya-san

Shocked, Kyoko: What?! … they talked to you?!

Yashiro: If I remember correctly, … the wife recognized Kotonami-san because she's your fan! … she called you Mio for the most part … she was a patient, I think!

Kyoko: My mom told me that his wife was hospitalized, but didn't tell me why … not that I need to know

Yashiro: Ren told me that they learned about you in the hospital, which makes sense … concerning that signing … it would make sense he would try to get your autograph for his sick wife?

Kyoko: Why would his wife like me of all people … there are many actresses in Japan, why me?!

Ren: That's messed up!

Yashiro: I think it's Karama! … his wife is Kyoko-chan's fan … who is the child of the women he hurt in the past!

Kyoko smiled cunningly while saying: when you say it that way … it makes me feel better!

Ren: …

Yashiro: Ren … is something wrong?

Kyoko: do you remember a different incident?

Ren looked at Yashiro and said: the restaurant!

Shocked, Yashiro: How could I forget that! … it's the most recent incident!

Kyoko: what restaurant?

Ren: you went to dine with your friends the other day … and you were bullied by those terrible girls from school!

Yashiro: a family of 5 sat behind your table … although we only saw that man and his 3 kids …

Stunned, Kyoko asked: they were there too?!

Ren: The oldest son is the boy who defended you against those bullies

Yashiro: Come to think of it … that boy said a few things, making it look like he's angry with that man

Kyoko looked concerned as she remembered the 3 boys she met at the signing … then her memory went somewhere else

Concerned, Ren asked: Mogami-san, are you ok?

Yashiro looked at Ren and thought (maybe, we shouldn't have told her all this … we might have made a huge mistake!)

Recalling something, Kyoko said: Hiroki ….

Confused, Ren asks: who?

Kyoko took out her phone and search her photos … then held up her phone asking: Is that him?

Ren and Yashiro were astonished, to say the least, Kyoko not only met him, she knew his name and had a photo of them together

Shocked, Yashiro asked: when did that happen?!

Kyoko: When I went to the mall with Momose-san … for that script thing we did … he was there with his mother and two siblings … we had lunch at the same place!

Yashiro: Oh … I wasn't with you then … I'm so sorry … I could have prevented this … but

Kyoko interrupted: No … it was me and Momose-san who approached him … he was shocked to see us, so he dropped his drink … we bought him a new one … he did mention that the dark moon DVD set was a gift for his mother … since it was her birthday!

Yashiro: but how did you end up taking pictures together?

Kyoko: It was Momose-san's idea, and I didn't mind … she thought he was a fan as well, and she teased him about it …

Ren: So, he sent you the photos from his phone?

Kyoko: No, he didn't have his phone, so I sent them to him using his email … he emailed me back confirming he got the photos while thanking me

Yashiro: So, you have his email address?!

Thinking quietly for a short while, Ren finally spoke saying: Hmm … this might not be a bad thing!

Yashiro: how so?

Ren: I've got a feeling that this kid isn't bad, given the fact they never got your email despite him having it

Yashiro: As well as defending you, despite being told to stop … he might actually be on our side!

Ren: Sorry … never mind that

Kyoko: No … you might be right … I didn't sense anything negative from him, … and perhaps he didn't even know we're related then

Yashiro: that's possible … but it did seem like he knew at the restaurant, given the tension between him and his fa ….

Interrupting, Ren said: that man

Kyoko: besides … I haven't gotten any weird emails at all, so maybe he kept having my email a secret … perhaps only his mother and siblings know about it

Yashiro: did you meet his mother too?

Kyoko: No … she only nodded and kept her distance

Yashiro: That's odd, especially since she's a big fan of yours

Ren: Perhaps she was suspicious then … or … she was only tried to be respectful since she's out in public and isn't in an official event

Kyoko: could be! … I do know that my mom and Todoh-san spoke about her in good light, so it seems she can be trusted

Yashiro: I can't help but think that it's great we know all this … this way we know what to expect going forward … and this email, … we can use it for our advantage … once we establish a trusted relationship with him

Ren: I don't think so … contacting him might not be a good idea … we shouldn't think this way … we are edging onto unknown territory

Kyoko: I will talk to my mom about this … so we can know if contacting him is against the law or not

Yashiro: I don't think it's against the law for you to contact him since there was a mutual understanding when you exchanged emails, but … I don't know if you will be comfortable contacting him after knowing who he is now

Kyoko: I should thank him since you two told me that he stood up for my sake … this can be a way to know whose side is he on … I don't want to turn him against anyone … I do think he's a good kid … I don't know ….

Yashiro: I think that if your mother can allow us to use his email, we can thank him on your behalf

Kyoko: it looks like I have a lot of things to discuss with her today

Ren: Are you going to talk to her about that issue, we discussed before?

Kyoko: yes … today I felt something ominous … it was also really cold for some reason… I was truly terrified!

Yashiro: Ominous?

Ren: How did your mother feel

Kyoko: she was freezing … but when I checked the AC temperature, it was normal!

Yashiro: I did hear that people feel cold when someone is planning something evil against them, but that's just a superstition my mother talked about in the past

Ren: you should talk to your mother about it as soon as possible … if something is going on, it's better to know sooner than later!

Kyoko: I'll talk to her after my appointment

Yashiro: Are you sure you don't want me to stay with you Kyoko-chan

Kyoko: I'll be fine … my mom will meet me there for sure!

Yashiro: I'll leave once you meet her, … I can't possibly drop you off and leave!

Thinking about the nightmare, Ren sighed nervously … then said: Kyoko … when you talk to your mother, make sure it's not at her place! … just as a precaution

Kyoko: you're right! … I can talk to her at her office since we will be going there before heading home

Ren: great … let me know how it goes!

Kyoko: ok, I will …. Ah!

Surprised, Yashiro: what's wrong?

Kyoko: I forgot! …. (she opens her bag and takes out two small packets) and says: Here!

Yashiro: ah thank you!

Ren takes the packet quietly and looks at it

Kyoko looks at Ren asks: have you had this before?

Ren looked back at her and nodded, and said: I remember, my father's friend gave us some of this before, it was really good

Kyoko: yup, it's one of my favorite Kyoto snacks … It appears Todoh-san's brother is in town, and he brought some for everyone … mom gave me the extra's, so I decided to share them!

Yashiro: Thank you!

Smiling heavenly, Ren said: Thank you

Shy, Kyoko looked down and blushed, saying: you're welcome … enjoy

---

(At an office in Tokyo)

Nanami: Thank you for meeting me today

Unsure, Kawashima-san: How can I help you?

Nanami smiled and said: I need your help with something important

Kawashima-san sat and listened to Nanami's request quietly until she finished explaining

Nanami: Can you help me with that?

Skeptical, Kawashima-san: look … I don't know why you're doing this … this might backfire

Nanami: at who?

Kawashima-san: at us?!

Nanami: keep me out of it!

Kawashima-san: how do I trust that what your telling me is true, when you're removing yourself from this?!

Nanami: I'm sure because I know those people personally!

Kawashima-san: I don't know …

Nanami: are you a coward?

Kawashima-san: No … I just don't want to risk it

Sarcastic, Nanami asks: really?

Kawashima-san: fine … I'll talk to my boss and see what happens

Nanami: please contact me and let me know when you can start … I want it to go in the order I gave you!

Kawashima-san: alright … we'll stay in touch

Nanami left the room and smiled victoriously

Kawashima-san didn't have a good feeling about her plan, but he knew his opinion wasn't important, so he went to talk to his boss about Nanami's plan

---

(At Viride General Law Office)

Wataru was checking a few things online, and he came across a video that surprised him, so he re-watched it twice, he then made a call, then got up and headed to the main office.

Todoh finished a call and said: It seems that Morizumi girl is trying to postpone the court day

Saena: That's fine … we have everything we need … no matter how much she tried to delay, she won't be able to avoid it forever

Todoh: true … the only issue here is that her family wants to end things discreetly … yet she's ruining all their effort

Saena: How ungrateful of her

Todoh: that's why spoiled kids are the worst … they think they are better than anyone and don't pay much attention to the law! …

Saena: I can't disagree with that!

Passing by, Katagiri asked: delayed?

Todoh: yes!

Katagiri: as expected … damn that child is so troublesome! … spoiled kids are a pain!

Todoh: are you speaking from personal experience?!

Saena looked at Todoh with a confused look

Katagiri: are you mad because I teamed up with Satoshi against you?!

Todoh: I'm not that low!

Katagiri: If your speaking of Shotaro, then yes … that kid is beyond hopeless … I thought he would behave, but he had to go to one of Kyoko's friends and show off!

Saena: what are you talking about?

Katagiri: he's a very tall, dark-haired man …

Todoh: Tsuraga Ren?

Katagiri: Ah yes … him … That kid went to him and tried to brag about knowing more about Kyoko than he did, but that guy handled it well … he didn't pay much attention to him!

Todoh: he went to Brag?!

Annoyed, Saena: how childish!

Katagiri: I wanted to give that kid a piece of my mind, but he's just ignoring me … he's annoyed that guy wasn't affected by him

Wataru: I'm sorry to interrupt … but I just discovered something!

Todoh: about?

Wataru: Do you remember that bullying incident Mogami's daughter experienced

Saena: with the spilled drinks?

Wataru: Yes! … I viewed the videos the restaurant released … come take a look!

All three of them followed him to his office, and he showed them the screen and played the video

Wataru then pointed at the table behind Kyoko and said: Isn't that the Miyasaki family?

Todoh: they were there?

Feeling stressed, Saena: how is this possible?!

Katagiri: Is this really a pure coincidence?

Saena: Yes … Kyoko didn't know about this place until her friend suggested going there to try it!

Wataru: this is the incident … and look … Kyoko leaves to the restroom, then you see this boy saying something … later he spoke again, yet the man tried to stop him

Katagiri: but this video doesn't have audio!

Wataru: No worries… I have called someone who worked there, and they told me what happened

He tells them everything he learned about then says: after that boy left, he didn't come back … so no one knows what happened next!

Katagiri: it appears that the boy wanted to stop them

Wataru: Yes … I think when he realized what they were up to, he stood up wanting to protest their action, but the drinks were spilled the next second … he had no chance to stop them, even if he wanted to

Katagiri: but the fact the boy only spoke up after Kyoko's disappearance means that he didn't want her to see him, don't you think?

Todoh: I would assume so … I think that's actually a good thing he didn't bring attention to them while Kyoko was there!

Saena: that's true

Katagiri: So, no one from Kyoko's company spoke to the boy? … or his family!

Wataru: I think her manager and boyfriend defended the boy … I'm not too sure, because the person doesn't remember everything that happened

Katagiri: what boyfriend?

Wataru: that guy who defended her so passionately … isn't he, her boyfriend?

Todoh: Kyoko-chan is single!

Saena though (Tsuraga's feelings are already out in the open … even Wataru is mistaking him as her partner … I wonder if this is good or bad)

Wataru: really? … I thought he was her boyfriend … he cares about her so much … and he defended her wholeheartedly … that's what my source told me!

Katagiri: he also tried to give her his jacket

Wataru: Those 4 we're going all the way against her … they even accused your daughter of sleeping her way up the chain!

Upset, Saena: what the hell?!

Wataru: They accused her of sleeping with her manager too, which got that tall guy who isn't her boyfriend to defend them both … Shortly after, that young boy exploded at them and left as I said before!

Katagiri: So, you're assuming he was also angry for Kyoko's sake

Sarcastic, Todoh: Yet his father tried to stop him? …. What a disgrace!

Wataru: let me get my source back on the phone … (he called them and asked them if he can put them on the speaker) then asked: Do you remember the conversation between the father and son?

Restaurant worker: If I remember correctly … he said something about his son overreacting … he hates seeing people being bullied because his wife raised him well … and that he wanted them to overlook his behavior … the boy didn't agree and he told his father he's different because he will speak up unlike him … the father then told him that they can handle it without his interference … but the boy said he was disappointed in his father who was a hero to him before … because he's not defending the people who matter most … which I didn't understand

Katagiri: defending the people that matter most … that could mean more than one thing

Todoh: He barely defended his wife when his mother was attacking her!

Wataru: that's all?

Restaurant worker: He faced the girls again and said things like they intruded on her outing with her friends … then …. Hmmm … I think he then said enough with the suffering? Because that girl doesn't deserve that… he then stormed out … his mother came back and tried to stop him, but he was too fast … that's about it, I think!

Wataru: ok … what did you think about what happened?

Restaurant worker: well … first of all, those 4 girls are terrible, I hope they lose everything and get kicked out of showbiz … because toxic people like them don't deserve our respect!

Wataru: I agree

Restaurant worker: secondly … Kyoko-san's boyfriend is so cool! … I mean when I saw them at the "Dark Moon" party on TV … I was so excited! … I mean they look so good together, and then seeing him defend her like that against those terrible allegations they threw at her, was so amazing... it's like he was her prince charming!

Wataru: wait … when was this party?

Restaurant worker: you probably don't watch much TV! … it was all over the showbiz news the next few days … she had long hair and a beautiful dress … the way Tsuraga-san looked at her was so cute! … to be honest, when I first heard of Kyoko, I was like "who the heck is that, I never heard of her" … my friends didn't think she should be part of the cast … but then we saw her Mio, even our mothers agreed her version is much scarier and better than the old one …

Confused, Wataru thought (she's going off-topic, right? … I'm lost here)

Todoh and Katagiri thought (long hair? … Kyoko's hair is short!)

The restaurant worker continued: Kyoko proved to everyone that she's worth it … she deserved her place in that cast … and I think she will be more amazing going forward … besides … she looks great with Tsuraga-san … I don't care what other people think … we as fans will never get a chance to be with him, let's get real here … so if Kyoko makes him happy, I'm all for it! … you have to look it up! … the way he looks at her is just adorbs!

Wataru: ok … I will … thank you

Restaurant worker: no problem … if you need anything else, please let me know

Wataru: Alright … thanks! … have a good day (then he hung up)

Katagiri: going back to the main topic, that kid said Suffering? … how much does he know, that kid?

Todoh: All I can say is that his mother did raise him well … he's not a coward like that loser!

Saena sensed a lot of hatred coming from Todoh towards her ex … she didn't mind it, but at the same time, she started wondering if the hatred was deeply rooted or not

Wataru: Although this does seem like a pure coincidence … I'm not sure the next will be … I know you have a lot on your plate, so I will help in all cases as much as I can … I finished my other case, so I have more time to help … so don't hesitate to ask!

Katagiri: Thanks, Wataru!

Wataru: found it!

Todoh: That's Kyoko?!

Katagiri: Your daughter transformed completely!

Saena: yeah …. She's a mystery!

Walking away, Todoh counted: the hospital, the boarding place, our office, the signing, and now that restaurant … we might need to be more careful!

Saena: perhaps I should tell her … I don't think keeping this a secret is good anymore!

Katagiri: I don't agree … I think her boss is right … telling her will only make her paranoid!

Saena: I'll see … I won't tell her unless she asks!

---

(At the hospital)

Yashiro bows to Saena as he leaves … making sure that Kyoko is now safe with her mother by her side

Saena and Kyoko go to meet the doctor

The genetics doctor: I'm sorry that results took longer than expected … we were waiting for the list to be completed, so you could finish everything in one visit

Saena: That's alright

The genetics doctor: So, let's get started …. basically, we found an anomaly in her DNA sequence, it was difficult to find, which is why it took this long

Saena: An anomaly? … does it have any effect on her lively hood?

The genetics doctor: To be honest, we don't have sufficient data about this anomaly, given it's extremely rare, however, we know that it won't affect her as long as she doesn't need some types of medications

Worried, Kyoko asked: Extremely rare?!

The genetics doctor: Yes … This type of genetic is very uncommon, but it's an anomaly that is usually passed down from a parent to their child … Anomalies are different depending on their type, and which chromosome it's attached to, so some can be passed down from both genders, and some can only be passed down from only one

Saena: So, is this something I have passed down to her?

The genetics doctor: I'm sorry It seems I wasn't very clear in my explanation, to answer your question, No, you couldn't have passed it down, because this Anomaly is only passed down through males, so I'm sure that her paternal side is the one who passed it to her … we did test you, and you came out clear

Kyoko: I'm confused, why is it rare then?

The genetics doctor: Well, …. This might be difficult to explain, but I hope you don't mind … this might be difficult to hear … but … this anomaly is one of the reasons why female babies never make it to their due date … so the rarity is in the fact that your alive and well, despite having it!

Hearing that made Saena feel very complicated feelings …. She was slightly confused, so she looked at the doctor seeking more information

Kyoko was also unsure how to feel about what she just heard … so she asked, can you explain it further?

The genetics doctor: Sure … In simple terms, I can say that Genetic information can be held in DNA without affecting the carrier, and however when it's passed down it can affect the offspring … With this type of anomaly Males tend to be carriers, and they pass it down to their children … if the child is male, then they may become carriers too, but if the child is female … then they most likely won't make it … some do, rarely … like in your case!

Saena looked at Kyoko and thought (she was meant to be born despite all my efforts to end the pregnancy)

Kyoko knowing her mother's past attempts was surprised she came this far

The genetics doctor: To put things into perspective … so far there are less than 100 females who are alive, along with having this anomaly … Kyoko-san is just one of them

Nervous, Kyoko asked: I wasn't meant to survive?

The genetics doctor: Don't look at it this way … you had all the right odds to survive … again, we don't know much since we don't have many people to test …. There might be more people out there … we simply don't know unless we test more!

Saena: you said earlier that there are medications that she can't take?

The genetics doctor: Yes … I'm going to give you a list that shows you all the medication you shouldn't take, and what you might substitute them with … all but 3 have substitutes … and in most cases, you won't need any of these unless you get sick … so rest assured, you will probably never feel like it's affecting your life … the poisoning incident was a rare instance, and I'm hoping you never have to go through that again!

Saena: So, this list is just … to … keep us informed

The genetics doctor: Yes!

Saena: and if she takes any of these medications… what will happen?

The genetics doctor: In most cases, they won't do anything … as they won't help her even if she needed them … but side effects are what you should be fearful of … so it's best to just avoid them and take the substitutes if needed … I'm hoping she'll live a normal life without really needing anything on that list!

Saena: alright, that's good

Worried, Kyoko: but … does that mean I can pass it down to my offspring in the future?

The genetics doctor: Good question … luckily… in your case, it's a No ... as I said before, Males are usually who pass it down … we know of females who have this anomaly and they are married with kids of both genders … none have it … so I don't think you need to worry about it, at all

Relieved Kyoko: alright … thank you so much

The genetics doctor: I will have the nurse hand you the list on your way out since she's printing it right now

Saena: Thank you!

Saena received a copy of the list and a digital list on a USB from the nurse

Saena thanked the nurse and walked away with Kyoko

Kyoko: I feel weird after hearing what the doctor has to say

Saena: That was sure unexpected

Kyoko: I guess I must apologize ….

Frim, Saena interrupted: Don't! … it's not your fault … none of this is your fault … things just happened this way … and we'll just have to live with it!

Kyoko: yeah … it's just … why we're the odds on my side?

Saena thought silently (Most females don't make it … yet Kyoko made it despite all my efforts? … she was meant to be born … is this?)

Kyoko realized something and said: Perhaps this is Karama!

Saena looked at Kyoko with a confused look and asked: on?

Kyoko: on that man! … he only has 3 sons … no girls!

Saena thought about Anna and remembered that she had said she had more than one miscarriage

Kyoko: I had the odds on my side, despite what you went through

Saena: I'm the one who should apologize … despite everything that happened in the past, I've accepted my fate, and I want to be better … I must say I was shocked to hear what he said, but … I'm glad you're here … I'm glad you beat all the odds despite my efforts to end the pregnancy

Kyoko nodded and said: I'm happy that we're now together … I know that the past is dark, but it did help make us both resilient and strong!

Saena: yeah …

They both walked silently … until Kyoko asked: Is Todoh-san waiting for us in his car?

Saena: No, he went to finish something urgent … he said it won't take long

Saena got a message from Todoh, so she said: speaking of the devil, he's running late … however, he suggested we meet him in the park nearby since staying in the hospital isn't the most ideal waiting place

Kyoko: the park? … that's great!

Saena: you like nature, don't you?

Kyoko: I sure do, although … I actually wanted to talk to you about something, can we discuss it in the park?!

Saena: Sure

She thought (this might actually be the best place to speak about things, … I'm happy she opened up to me, … this is the progress that will lead to a better relationship)

---

(The police department – Detective Okabe Giichi's office)

Okabe: So, you two are with me on the case?

Police officer 1 and Police officer 2: Yes sir!

Uno Takuya: I expect good results this time Okabe-kun!

Okabe: Will deliver! … you two … I need you to begin watching and investigating every little thing about my two main suspects

Police officer 1 and Police officer 2: Yes Sir!

Police officer 1 takes suspect number 1's file and leaves the room to start his work

Police officer 2 takes the suspect 2 file and says: I'll head out now … I will be back with a report!

Surprised, Uno Takuya: Those two are your suspects?

Okabe: Yes! … I have a feeling that either of them is behind all this

Uno Takuya: are you sure?! … why though?

Okabe: because those two had contact with Morizumi before the incident … don't you think it's odd?

Uno Takuya: we'll see what you come up with … I just want this to end soon! … there is a lot of pressure from the family and media to get results … and if what you think is true, then it will be explosive news!

Okabe: Count on me sir … I won't disappoint!

Uno Takuya: alright … I hoping for results soon! … good luck!

Okabe waited for Uno-san to leave … then he smiled slyly and remembered the box of money he received the night before and thought (if I can make this a reality … I will get the other half of the reward) … he opened his desk and took out a paper and said: This is all the evidence I need anyway!

---

(The Park)

Kyoko and Saena walked into the park silently, Saena was wearing her formal work clothes, however, she did leave her dress coat in Todoh's car, given the hot weather outside. Kyoko was wearing Jeans, a flowy navy blouse and a leather jacket … she had taken off the leather jacket because it was too hot.

Saena looked at Kyoko and thought (perhaps she changed her mind … she hasn't said a word since we arrived)

Kyoko was internally thinking (Which do I start with … the fact I know about those coincidences … or that I feel like I'm being watched)

Saena figured that Kyoko might be hesitating, so she said: what's on your mind? … you said you wanted to talk to me about something

Kyoko: it's more than one thing …

Saena: Ok … I'm listening

Kyoko: well … I guess I will start with this … (she opened her phone and showed her a picture)

Saena looked at the picture, then thought (this boy … isn't he that man's son?)

Kyoko: does the boy look familiar to you?

Saena nodded, then said: It seems like I also have things to say

Kyoko: It's ok … I know … there were several coincidences where I was at the same place they were at … beginning with the hospital … which you told me about … it seems that Moko-san, Amamiya-san, and Yashiro-san met them back then

Unaware, Saena asked: they approached them?

Kyoko: Yashiro-san told me that they were approached, but only because that person's wife is a fan of mine … which makes sense why this boy and his siblings came to the signing … right?

Saena: Yes … their father was there too, but he didn't approach

Kyoko: I'm glad you came with me that day … if you didn't, he might have approached me back then!

Saena: however, the way I acted afterward wasn't that pleasant, … I should apologize for that

Kyoko: you don't need to apologize … you weren't happy to see him, I understand … I would be too!

Saena confessed: I was upset indeed … to be honest, … your boss talked to me about the possibility of that guy appearing despite the message I tried to send … I had a nightmare, with him taking you away … so I had my guard up, especially since I told him your existence wasn't his business the first time around, he still showed up to a signing, knowing you were going to be there!

Kyoko: Weirdly, his wife is my fan … why didn't she stop supporting me after she learned the truth about me?

Saena: Takarada-san checked the attendance out of curiosity and informed us that he came as a guardian … so perhaps his kids thought their mother was still a fan and got her your signature

Kyoko: makes sense … when I met Hiroki, you did say his mother is a fan … but you know, we also had lunch at the same Café, but none of them approached me there

Saena: so, this photo was taken before having lunch at the café?

Kyoko told her mother about her meeting with Hiroki, then said: who would have thought he's his child?

Saena: You sent him the photo using your email? … have you received anything since?

Kyoko: No … He only sent an email back informing me he got the photos and thanked me … that's it … it seems like he didn't share the email with anyone

Saena: He's a good kid for keeping it to himself

Kyoko: actually … I thought I could use this email to contact him again

Saena: you want to get in contact with him?

Kyoko: I'm not sure … he didn't seem like a bad person, despite having the same … paternal parent … actually … it more like Yashiro-san and Ren wanted to contact him, as they wanted to thank him, … since he sort of defended me against the bullies at the restaurant!

Saena: I was informed about that today … that man, his wife, and kids were at the restaurant … Wataru-san saw it on the video the restaurant released

Kyoko: oh … I didn't see that video, so I didn't know

Saena: So, … you were probably curious if your manager and Tsuraga-san found the people in the photo you gave them familiar … correct?

Kyoko nodded, then said: I was going to ask you first, but I changed my mind because I was curious if they would react to it … actually, my conversation with Moko-san bought up the possibilities

Saena: I figured you would learn about it … I did ask Takarada-san if I should tell you, but he told me not to because close calls will only make you paranoid

Kyoko: were there other instances?

Saena: Yes … when he came to meet me the first time, he and his wife saw you as you were leaving … that's how he asked about you … furthermore … he went to the restaurant you used to work and board at … on the day you moved in with me

Shocked, Kyoko asked: He was there too?!

Saena: Yes … he also saw you fighting with Shotaro as he was leaving … which is why he and his mother approached him later on

Stunned, Kyoko: they met with Sho?! … that idiot will tell them anything?!

Saena: I don't think he told them much … he did come to meet me afterward, and he told me what happened!

Kyoko: So, are they going after everyone I know?!

Saena: It seems like they're fishing for any information they can get

Kyoko: Do you think they will look into our past as well?

Saena: what makes you think they aren't already doing that … the only reason why I don't tell you everything is because I don't want you to stress about it!

Kyoko: they are?!

Saena sighed heavily and said: Yayoi-san told me a private investigator they hired came asking some questions, they turned him away, but … my best guess is that not everyone will do what Yayoi-san did!

Kyoko: they are going that far? … even though they know the law is on our side?

Saena: perhaps they think fishing for information will be useful to them somehow … I don't see that, so I'm not going to spend any of my efforts stopping them … that's a waste of my valuable time!

Kyoko: what if they …

Seeing how Kyoko paused while looking concerned, Saena guessed: if they try to obtain medical information they need to go through me … unless they do it illegally … but no worries, most medical professionals prefer to protect their integrity over a sum of cash … because if they do leak private medical information, their job will be on the line

Kyoko felt relieved, then said: I guess that's fine then … I know everything I need to know, so nothing they say will affect me!

Saena: you probably know more than you should … at least that's what they believe

Kyoko: I have the right to know … you said that much! … and I'm grateful we spoke then because I have a much better understanding of who those people are

Saena: going back to the email … I think it's only you who should contact him, … giving a minor's contact information to people he doesn't personally know doesn't technically break the law, but the lines are blurry in that area … if they want to thank him, then you can set up a meeting or ask if you can share his email with them

Kyoko: that makes sense … They were both worried about the legal matter

Saena: you don't have to contact him if you don't want to!

Kyoko: Do you think this boy is good like his mother? … I mean, Tsuraga-san and Yashiro-san seem to trust he's a good person … I didn't sense anything negative when I met him … although, that was before we knew that we're … related

Saena: I don't know how much that guy told his kids, but from what I've seen from today's video, it seems that the boy is angry with his father about what happened, and did refer to himself as being different … that makes me think he's well aware of somethings at least, and that he might actually be on his mother's side

Kyoko: I guess I will have to think about it for now … I won't take any actions for the moment being

Saena: good call

Kyoko: As for the second topic … actually … it's the main subject I wanted to bring up today

Saena: what is it?

Hesitant, Kyoko looked down and thought (how do I bring it up … It's been on my mind all day, but)

Saena: you don't need to hesitate

Kyoko: ok … here goes nothing

---

(At Viride General Law Office)

As Todoh finished up something important, he returned to the office to report to Katagiri-san before rushing out to pick up Saena and Kyoko

Wataru: you're in a hurry?

Todoh: maybe … why?

Wataru: you should take your Umbrella, it's going to rain soon

Todoh: wasn't it supposed to be sunny all day today?

Wataru: This is Tokyo! … the weather is never accurately predicated

Todoh: Damn … I told them to wait in the park, I need to hurry!

Wataru: Take extras… since your coming back anyway!

Todoh: Thanks! … (he picks up three umbrellas and rushes out the door not noticing anyone on his way out)

A woman came in shortly after, she looked at a running figure and thought (I wonder if she's not here)

Receptionist: Hi … how can I help you

Hesitant, Anna asked: Is Mogami-san here today?

Receptionist: I believe she stepped out for the afternoon, she will be back soon though … do you have an appointment?

Anna: I don't … I just wanted to tell her something

Receptionist: You can wait for her … I can take you to the waiting area if you'd like

Anna thought about it for a second, but decided against staying, as she didn't want to bother Saena with her sudden visit or presence … so she opened her bag, took out a paper and handed it to the receptionist

Receptionist: you want me to give this to Mogami-san?

Anna: Yes … please do … it's important

Receptionist: who do I tell her it's from?

Anna: A foreign woman you met before … just that

Receptionist: alright … I will give it to her once she returns … have a good day

Anna: Thank you, you too! … (she then rushes out and get into a taxi, that drives away just as it started raining)

---

(The park)

Saena wondered why Kyoko was so hesitant, but give her daughter time to compose herself and start speaking up

Kyoko: let me start by asking … do you feel like you're being watched

Saena: watched? … that's certainly a good way to describe how I was feeling … but I'm not too sure

Kyoko: I feel the same … sometimes I feel like I'm being watched, and sometimes I don't … so I wasn't sure … until today morning!

Saena: when you looked terrified?

Kyoko: yeah … something was very odd … perhaps Ominous … but still I'm not sure if it's just me overreacting

Saena: Ominous … I did feel that too!

Kyoko: so, it's not just me! … I thought it was all in my head … since I heard about that … detective … I felt weird

Saena: that's when you started feeling watched?

Kyoko: to be honest … it might have been even before that … but I'm not too sure … I actually thought you might have watched me because you wanted to ensure I'm safe, but when I felt the same feeling while you were home, I was convinced it wasn't you

Saena: please don't assume I would invade your privacy … even if it's in my place, … sure I can put up camera's but I wouldn't risk it … those things can be hacked, and not only your privacy, but also mine would be compromised!

Kyoko: I never thought of it that way!

Saena: You said you don't feel it all the time, right?

Kyoko: yeah … it's odd … sometimes I do feel it, but I'm not too uncomfortable … so I ignore it … but other times I can feel it in a very uncomfortable way … like today morning … we both felt cold too, although the temperature was normal … when I was at Moko-sans place I felt the most comfortable because something was telling me I wasn't being watched there!

Saena: Assuming I'm right … you didn't say anything because you were unsure?

Kyoko: I told Tsuraga-san … because he asked me about what was bothering me … and … truthfully … the other reason why I didn't say anything earlier was that I wasn't sure it's safe to do so!

Saena understood what Kyoko was saying because she felt something similar, so she said: because if you spoke about it openly if someone was watching, they would act to prevent us from figuring them out?

Surprised, Kyoko confirmed: that's how I felt about it! … although I did think I was being paranoid for the most part

Saena: I felt the same way, and I spoke to Todoh about it

Kyoko: that's why you stopped opening the curtains?

Saena: yes … I was mainly concerned because your behavior changed, … you started changing in the bathroom, you kept checking if the curtains were closed and you kept looking around every once in a while, … that didn't go unnoticed

Kyoko: well, I was trying to figure out how I felt … and if someone was watching from the outside, because … only both of us have access to the apartment … so I thought if someone was watching from the inside, it might be the cops because they can use their badge or something

Saena: actually, I wouldn't assume it's the cops … but I wouldn't exclude that shady detective either, since he is known for his unethical activities!

Kyoko: would he be punished if he was found out?

Saena: I'm not too sure … he got away with a lot of things, so I'm skeptical … however … if there are cameras inside, we need to find them as soon as possible

Kyoko: If any, the kitchen and the bedroom would be the ideal places to look in … because that's where I felt them!

Saena: yeah … let's talk to Todoh about this … he's on his way here!

Kyoko: ok! … his connection might help us with this

Saena: I'm sure of that

Kyoko: Mom … your hair has become undone

Saena checked her hair clip and found that it gave in … so she complains: it broke … that's fine, I have a replacement back in my office

Kyoko: should we walk to the parking lot, since Todoh-san would park there?

Saena: let's go … (she looks at the sky), then says: It's getting dark!

Kyoko: It was supposed to be sunny today?!

Saena: Not anymore it seems …

Just as she said that raindrops start falling … it was still light, so she kept walking at the same pace

Kyoko: here, wear this jacket … if your blouse gets wet, it will become transparent

Embarrassed, Saena took the leather jacket and wore it, she thanked Kyoko for being thoughtful

As they walked towards the parking lot, the rain was becoming heavier … so they both took shelter under a large tree with large branches that lessened the amount of rain falling on them … as they stood there waiting for the rain to slow down again, they heard a low voice nearby

Kyoko: did you hear something?

Saena looked around and saw a box under one of the park benches … a tiny little kitten tried to climb out but fell back in … Saena pointed at the box and said: there's a kitten in that box

Kyoko ran through the rain and reached the little kitten who was getting wet … she picked it up and put it in her arms trying to shield it from the rain

Saena followed Kyoko and said: poor thing … it must be cold!

Kyoko: Cats usually hate the water, right … how can someone leave such a small animal like this?

Saena agreed with Kyoko, then she said: we could take it to some animal shelter … we can't leave it out here indeed

Kyoko looked in the box and took out the tiny towel the cat had in the box … then said: it too wet … I can't wrap them in it

Saena saw some documents that were revealed when Kyoko removed the towel and said: this is probably the cat's medical records

Kyoko: so, someone abandoned the cat because they can't take care of it?!

Saena: that might be the case … (she put the documents under the jacket with Kyoko's papers, to prevent them from getting wet

The kitten mewed, as it was scared and cold

Feeling bad, Kyoko said: poor thing … I wish I can do more to help it!

Saena however wasn't sure they had any ability to do so since she never dealt with pets before

Kyoko kept hugging the cat trying to shield it from the rain, … she pets the cat trying to dry it with her hands … she also kept it close to her body to give it warmth as much as possible

The kitten reacted to Kyoko's kindness with a few satisfied purrs

Hearing the cat purr, Kyoko found it adorable, so she said without thinking: It's so adorable … can I keep it?!

Surprised by Kyoko's question, Saena wasn't unsure; so, she said: I don't know … I never dealt with cats before, let alone any other types of pets … besides, you know some apartments have rules against owning pets

Disappointed, Kyoko said: yeah … the apartment I use to live in when I first came here had no tolerance to pets … but …

Saena: raising a cat is a lot of work, are you sure you can handle it … especially when your job is so demanding and time-consuming?

Realizing that the odds weren't in her favor, Kyoko frowned and said: your right …

Saena felt bad, she saw how interested Kyoko was in the cat, so she said: I'll check with the apartment management …

Kyoko looked at her mother in surprise and asked: are you saying I can keep it if we're allowed to bring it into the apartment?

Saena: for the time being, yes … I don't know much about cats, so we might have to put it in a shelter soon… but … if we're allowed to keep it, we can try and see if keeping it is a possibility

Excited, Kyoko said: Thank you! … (she then addressed that kitten) saying: you might come home with us … aren't you a lucky adorable kitten!

Not knowing what's gotten into her, Saena sighed and thought (Is this how love works? … wanting to make your child happy, even when they want something as weird as a pet?)

Kyoko: should we take the box?

Saena: No … it will fall apart if we try to carry it … it's too wet now … let's gets back under that tree for the time being!

Kyoko: ok … (she walked slowly as to not scare the kitten who was closing their eyes in Kyoko's warm arms)

Looking at the sky, Saena sensed that the rain will keep pouring … she sighed and hoped the rain would stop soon

Todoh arrived at this moment … he grabbed the umbrellas and ran through the park looking for them, but he didn't have to look for long, as they were close by … as he walked closer … he saw Kyoko holding a kitten in her arms … then he saw Saena, with her hair down wearing a leather jacket … he found that … erotic to say the least … he swallowed nervously as he came closer to them

Kyoko noticed him and called out: Todoh-san … you're here!

Todoh: I'm so sorry, … if I knew it was going to rain, I wouldn't have suggested you come here

Saena: don't worry about it … walking here allowed us to discuss a few things, which was great, right?

Kyoko smiled and agreed by nodding

Todoh was relieved to know that they were both fine and that they have a good chance to speak to one another … he handed Saena an open umbrella, then open another one and held it over Kyoko

Saena: Do you mind if we bring this little kitten with us in your car?

Todoh: I don't … but are you keeping it? … I mean, it's wild?

Saena took out the papers and said: someone abounded it … although it has taken some of its vaccines

Sarcastic, Todoh commented: oh … what a thoughtful person … giving the needed information to however finds it!

Sensing something off with Todoh, Saena asked: something wrong?

Todoh: No worries … just a few hiccups in my way … but I'll get through them … anyway … we should get going … it's cold and wet out here!

Saena agreed

The Trio walked back to Todoh's car, as Kyoko held the kitten close, whispering to it happily

Todoh kept staring at Saena because he found her very attractive with her long hair down while wearing a leather jacket

Sensing something, Saena looked at him and caught him staring, so she asked: what's the matter?

Todoh smiled politely and said: no, nothing …

Skeptical Saena raised an eyebrow with a questioning look, but she received no answer … so she looked at Kyoko and that cat and thought (what's with him today?)

Kyoko also noticed Todoh's staring eyes … she looked at her mom and realized her mother looked more stylish … some people might consider her look "Sexy" … and knowing about Todoh feelings just made it clear to her that he was very interested in her mother romantically at least

Todoh looked down at the car keys as he opened his car … and thought (Behave and stop staring)

In the car, Saena contacted her building management and learned that keeping pets was ok, as long as it's not a dog

** cats, fish, and quiet animals were ok, but since dogs tend to bark loudly, they were banned**

Kyoko was delighted with the news and she began thinking of what she would need to bring for her new friend

Todoh informed them that someone in the office has a cat, and they might help them figure some things out, which would be helpful

They now headed back to the office

At the office, Saena and Kyoko talked to Todoh about their suspicions, only to find out he was equally concerned and has already taken steps to help … he contacted his brother asking if he can get his hands on the device he requested, but was told to wait for him

Kyoko talked to the coworker who's a cat owner, and she got a lot of advice on what to get for the cat and how to take care of it

The receptionist joined the group of lawyers who came together to see the cat … she saw Saena standing with Todoh and approached her, saying: Mogami-san … someone came looking for you when you were out

Suspicious, Todoh asked: was it an old lady?

Receptionist: no, she was a middle-aged foreign woman

Saena: did she say what she wanted?

Receptionist: No, … she did however leave a message for you … I can go get it!

Saena: I'll take it on the way out … thank you!

Receptionist: No problem

Saena: I wonder if it was his wife, Anna?

Todoh: possibly … she's the only middle-aged foreign woman I can think of!

Satoshi called Todoh and told him to go to Saena's place and wait for him there … he also told him that if it was true that someone is watching, … then they should act normally so they don't want to sabotage any possible discovery

Saena, Kyoko, Todoh and the little kitten headed out … on the way out Saena got the paper Anna left for her, but she decided to open later on … they decided to go to a pet store to get a few things for the kitten, before heading home

---

(Saena's Apartment)

Saena, Kyoko, and Todoh set up the litter box, food, and water for the kitten

** At this point, Nanami opens the Cameras again to check if anyone is back, and sees the Trio looking over a kitten sleeping on its small bed **

Kyoko and Saena felt like their being watched… but they pretended not to feel anything as they didn't want the watcher to notice anything

Saena: Now, all we need is a name, right?

Kyoko: Hmmm … what's a good name for them?

Todoh: I leave that for you two to figure out … all the names I can think of belong to cats my family owned in the past

Saena: Come to think of it, your parents do love cats

Kyoko: what kind of names did they have?

Todoh: Shiro-kun was the white one … Nino-chan, Momo-chan, Hiro, Kuro-kun, and Fufu-chan

Saena smiled and said: that's quite a handful

Todoh: Most of them are gone now, but Shiro-kun is still around … I believe my parents got more cats, but I haven't seen them since I haven't been to Kyoko in a while

Saena: well, we don't have to pick a name right away … take your time to think of one you'd like

Kyoko: Ok! … (she admired her little furry friend, then took out her phone and started taking pictures)

Saena: do you want some tea?

Todoh: that would be great, what about you Kyoko-chan?

Kyoko didn't hear Todoh properly, as she was on her phone sending pictures of her kitten to Ren

Saena: don't worry about her … she's probably in her own world now

Kyoko got a reply from Ren, commenting on how adorable her kitten is, so she sends him a message asking if he's like to meet them, and he replied asking if it's ok for him to come over?

Excited, Kyoko asks: Can Tsuraga-san come to meet our little kitten?!

Todoh was surprised that she asked that question, he thought that Kyoko was messaging her female friends, but it seems Tsuraga-san comes first in her books

Seeing how excited Kyoko is, Saena nodded, then said: sure …

Happy, Kyoko said: thanks mom … (then she sends a message to Ren, asking him to come over)

Curious, Saena asked: what about Kotonami-san?

Kyoko: Moko-san? … she said it's cute but she'd rather keep her distance, since animals are cute to look at, but not touch!

Todoh: She's not a fan of animals?

Kyoko: yes!

Saena sat down and checked her email, she then looked at Todoh

Todoh looked back at her and nodded … he then said: Can my brother come over to give us an update on the case?

Saena: Sure!

Kyoko looked at Todoh and wondered (I wonder how Todoh-san's brother is like?)

Saena got up and said: I should prepare dinner!

Kyoko: I'll help!

Todoh: I can help as well!

Saena opened the fridge and said: I don't think we have much!

Kyoko: I can go to the shop close by and get a few things!

Todoh: Let me do that! … just send me a text of all the ingredients you need

Saena: Thank you … for everything … I'm sorry for all the trouble

Todoh: what are you saying … it's no trouble at all!

Saena: What should we make though?

Kyoko took out her recipe book and said: we can make this … and this … it will be enough for all 5 of us!

Todoh: You don't need to feed my brother … he can get food once he leaves!

Confused Saena: are you sure?

Todoh: If you feed him, he won't leave!

Unsure, Saena looked at Todoh with a confused look

Kyoko: We have to treat him like a guest though

Todoh: fine … I'll drag him out if I have to! … just one tip, he loves spicy food!

Saena nodded and said: I'll send you a list!

Todoh: alright … (He leaves heading to the grocery store nearby)

Kyoko: Should we choose a different dish … since these two aren't spicy?

Saena: No … he's brother can't stand spicy food

Confused, Kyoko asks: was he trying to get us to make something his brother hates?

Saena: perhaps he's trying to make his brother feel unwelcomed … I got to admit, his brother has been getting on his nerves recently

Kyoko: is there bad blood between them?

Saena: I don't think so, it's just his brother teasing him about some things … however, they remain close despite that

Kyoko: I guess siblings just like to tease each other … I remember when I met Moko-san's family, they teased her about bringing people for the first time, it was weird!

Saena: For only children like us, it's hard to understand sibling relationships … I can't tell if its only teasing or if they mean what they say to one another

Kyoko nodded and smiled

Saena: ah ... it's awake

Kyoko: we got to think of a name … but what?

Saena: maybe you can call it after one of your favorite characters … or fairies … I don't know

Kyoko: I guess I can do some research … I might see a name I like

Saena: go ahead … I will send Todoh a list while you're at it

Kyoko: ok

---

(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Learning about Todoh's brother coming, Nanami sensed trouble and called her son to come right away

Kioshi came and asked: Good evening

Nanami: I keep asking you to come, and you don't respond, what is up with you lately?

Kioshi: I'm out and about! … we're here on vacation as a family … what do you expect?

Nanami: I expect you to pay more attention to me, … I hope you didn't forget I'm your mother who gave birth to you!

Kioshi: I didn't forget! … I invited you to join us, but you kept declining!

Nanami: I had other things to do!

Kioshi: so, when we ask you to come you say you're busy, and when you want me to join you, I'm busy … it seems our schedules are conflicted … I'm sorry you felt ignored

Nanami: by the way … did you come up with a plan?

Kioshi: not yet … I'm still thinking

Nanami: how long are you going to think for … or are you just trying to delay taking action?

Kioshi: No, … but I'm trying to think of a plan that will do the job without harming anyone!

Nanami: Impossible! … someone will end up hurt anyway, so stop wasting time and come up with something before I act myself!

Kioshi: I'll see what I can do … is that all?

Nanami: why does it seem like your trying to avoid me … you just came here, and you already want to leave?

Kioshi: we're going out for dinner, remember? … you declined that as well

Nanami: Dinner can wait a few minutes! … look here!

Kioshi: I don't want to watch this anymore!

Nanami: Kioshi, … that lawyer co-worker of hers is trying to pair her up with his brother!

Kioshi: what?

Nanami: He's invited his brother to their apartment!

Kioshi looked at the screen, but he only saw Kyoko and Saena … and a cat

Nanami: She also got her daughter a pet, to make her think "I'm doing this for you, so you will choose me over him"!

Kioshi: I don't care anymore … she can do whatever she wants! … besides, Kyoko choose her anyway!

Nanami: Kioshi, this attitude is unacceptable! … you can't lose against her! … she abandoned the girl! this is your chance to snatch her away from her terrible mother

Kioshi: I wasn't there from the beginning of her life anyway … which makes me worse!

Nanami: you didn't know she existed! … you have the perfect excuse!

Kioshi: No! … that's not true … you knew very well what I did in the past … let's stop deceiving ourselves … I'm the one in the wrong, I admitted that and I apologized! … but it doesn't change the fact I committed a crime against her!

Nanami: Now it's clear to me that you're not trying to help after all!

Kioshi: I already told you that I'm trying to come up with something

Nanami: don't play with me … with this attitude, it's clear you're not interested in winning that girl over

Kioshi: because I know it's not possible!

Nanami: did you tell your wife?

Kioshi looked away without answering his mother

Nanami: as I thought! … what did that bitch say?!

Upset, Kioshi raises his voice saying: Don't call Anna names! … You're just upset that she's right and your wrong!

Nanami: when was I ever wrong!

Kioshi: Mom! … you're not perfect! … we did something we can never undo! … we have to live with the consequences of our actions

Nanami: your actions … I'm innocent … last I checked, I was in the US when you came here and slept with that whore!

Kioshi: so now you're throwing me under the bus … even though I followed your plan from start to finish?!

Nanami: I never asked you to get intimate with her!

Kioshi: really?! … sure! … you didn't! … that's on me! … I'm the one who acted like a normal partner in a relationship! … but no! … your right! … it's all on me!

Nanami: What with you today?!

Kioshi: you know what? … since I'm the one who acted on my own … and it's all my fault, … then you don't have to clean up my mess! … you stay out of it!

Nanami: what is the meaning of that?!

Kioshi: what I'm saying is that … from here on … you have no business dealing with Mogami or her child … stay out of it!

Nanami: Not going to happen! … that girl is my only granddaughter … you can't ask me to pretend she doesn't exist!

Kioshi: I'm done here! … have fun watching this crap on your own … I have a family to entertain!

Upset, Nanami Shouted: Stop right there!

Kioshi stood up with his back to his mother and said: what now?

Nanami: your behavior is unacceptable … do you want to do this to me?

Kioshi looked at his mother and asked: I have dinner plans with my wife and kids! … can I leave now

Angry, Nanami threatened: Your father won't like this!

Kioshi: so, you're going to complain to dad that I'm not spending time with you, instead of spending it with my family?!

Nanami: I'm not going to complain, but I'll reveal something your hiding from him, how about that?

Nervous, Kioshi looked away then said: I'm going to tell him about this myself!

Nanami: not if I tell him now!

Kioshi: Mom!

Nanami: you either stay and watch with me … or I call your father and tell him about her!

Annoyed, Kioshi: how long do I have to watch this?

Nanami: until we know if his brother is going try to steal your daughter from you by marrying your EX!

Kioshi sat down next to his mother and looked at the screen, then he took out his phone and texted his wife that he will join them a little later

Nanami smiled victoriously

While watching, Kioshi was surprised to see Tsuraga Ren, so he asked: that guy is related to him?

Nanami: No … he's invited too! … it's a whole family affair … I assume!

Kioshi noticed how close Ren is to Kyoko … which worried him … he didn't think Kyoko was old enough to be in a relationship … as he personally thought that if he had a daughter, he wouldn't allow her to date until she's 20 or something … he knew how men think … he was a man himself … he knew that men would think of all the dirty things they can do with the women they're interested in

Nanami: the way he looks at her is suspicious!

Kioshi knew that look … Ren seemed lustful for his daughter … and that bothered him … he thought to himself (this might be hypocritical, but I wouldn't want a man to look at my child the same way I look at my wife, no matter who it is!)

Nanami: why are you so quiet?!

Kioshi: I don't have much to say! … it's not like I can do anything about any of this!

Nanami: This man is clearly trying to sleep with your daughter!

Kioshi: however, … she's not paying any attention to his tactics … not that he's doing anything grand anyway! … by the looks of it … nothing will happen between them!

Nanami: would you trust him that much … if that girl goes to his place alone, just imagine the things he might do to her!

Kioshi: I don't want to imagine any of that … first that's gross! … second, I would assume her mother wouldn't allow her to do the same mistake she did!

Nanami: Her mother clearly said it's up to her daughter to do whatever she wants … do you really think she's going to stop her?! … besides … your daughter stayed over somewhere else on Wednesday!

Kioshi: She might have stayed over with a female friend … let's not get ahead of ourselves!

Nanami: yeah … and if she ends up getting pregnant! … what are you going to do about it?! … her mother will just blame you for that as well!

Kioshi: how the hell am I to blame?!

Nanami: Just focus on me here! … watch and see how that guy interacts with your child … then tell me he's just a friend … when the first person she thought of inviting was him … I sense a lot of trouble from this man!

Kioshi couldn't' disagree with his mother on that point … he thought Ren was interested in his daughter which was bad news for him… in his mind, Ren is not only a famous guy, but an actor, … he can deceive his daughter by acting as he cares … besides … a famous actor would have slept with countless women before, so who knew what kind of diseases he may carry

He started worrying about the kinds of men his daughter might meet in the showbiz industry and felt troubled … if her mother was innocent enough to be deceived by him … what was a 17-year-old girl going to face with men like that around her all-time … even worse … her being close to a famous actor when she's still new can bring her a lot of pain and misfortune due to bullying, he himself witnessed days earlier

Irked, Nanami comments: look at her mother … she's not even paying attention to them!

Kioshi: she might have work to do

Nanami: you don't focus on work, when one, you have a guest! … two, he's a male friend of her child, three, and most importantly, … he's literally flirting with her daughter in front of her

Kioshi: But … not even she is fazed by his gaze … she's barely paying any attention to him

Nanami: sure … she's not paying attention at all … while in reality, she's taking pictures of him with her new pet! … what more do you need to see?!

Kioshi: I'm just hoping this is all a harmless friendship with zero romance involved

Nanami: you're an idiot if you really believe that … this young man wants her … and her mother's co-worker is introducing his brother to her mother as a potential lover! … if Romance isn't involved, I don't know what is!

---

(In Saena's apartment – moments ago)

Saena: Someone is at the door

Kyoko gets up and opens the door, then greets: Good evening Tsuraga-san

Ren: Good evening … thank you for inviting me over … please excuse my intrusion

Saena greeted Ren saying: Good evening …

Kyoko: Come on in!

Ren enters the apartment awkwardly since this is his first time coming to Kyoko's new place of living … he thought Taisho was difficult … but visiting Kyoko's mother seemed more stressful than he assumed

Saena smiled awkwardly and stiffly said: make yourself comfortable

Ren bowed down thanking Saena for welcoming him … he then took off his shoes and stood next to Kyoko with an awkward smile on his face

Kyoko sensed the awkwardness between them … but wasn't sure what to do about it

Wanting to break the awkward silence, Saena asked: would you like some tea?

Ren: No, thank you … I had some coffee before coming here … but thank you, really!

Saena: No problem … feel free to join us for Dinner!

Kyoko: Have you eaten anything yet?

Ren: No … not yet

Kyoko: I figured … then it's decided, you'll have dinner with us!

Ren: are you sure you want me to stay that long?

Saena: It's no problem … My coworker is currently doing the food shopping … and his brother will join us later on … I hope you're ok with that

Kyoko smiled and nodded

Ren wasn't sure it was really ok for him to stay, so he just nodded awkwardly

Sensing the awkwardness in the air again, Kyoko proposed: you want to meet my new friend?!

Ren smiled and nodded at her

Kyoko walked to the corner of the living room and said: Here they are … I was actually doing some research, trying to find a good name

Ren: is it female or male?

Kyoko: it's a female cat

Ren: I see ... (he kneeled and petted the little kitten sleeping on a light yellow bed

Not sure if she should join the conversation, Saena took out her laptop and started looking over some documents while waiting for Todoh to return …since they couldn't prepare anything for dinner until he got back

Kyoko: I saw many names online … but I don't like any of them … I don't they fit well

Ren wanted to say something but was interrupted by the cat suddenly getting up and walking away

Kyoko: She's awake!

Ren: perhaps I woke her up … I'm sorry!

Kyoko: no, it's ok, … she was sleeping the whole way here … and in mom's office too … she likes to sleep

Kyoko and Ren watched the cat walk around while exploring the place … the cat then went to the bowl of water and drank a tiny bit … then she walked over to the food bowl, sniffed it … then walked towards Ren and started sniffing his hand … she then started rubbing against his leg and purring as he petted her

Ren: She's adorable!

Excited, Kyoko says: right?! … she too cute!

Ren sat down and let the kitten climb into his lap … she proceeded to lay down and allowed him to keep petting her

Kyoko squalled in excitement saying: she likes you!

Ren smiled and said: I like her too! … he then looked at Kyoko and gave her a heavenly smile

Kyoko took out her phone and started snapping photos of Ren with her kitten … and then proceeded to check the picture to see how they came out

Ren starred at Kyoko lovingly … he was happy she told him about her new pet, and invited him over to meet them … then desire started seeping in … he wished she could take pictures of them together, among other things

Saena noticed Ren staring at Kyoko … however she didn't want to comment, so she looked back at her work thinking (men are complicated)

Kyoko: let's take a photo together?

Eager, Ren agreed right away: sure!

Kyoko sat next to Ren as he took her phone and took a selfie, … they looked like a couple with their new pet … Kyoko looked at the picture with much excitement and said: I will hold her this time

They proceed in taking a dozen more pictures, … while laughing … and teasing each other

Saena looked at them and sensed a lot of feelings between those two … she however didn't comment and let them continue

At this point, Todoh-san returned with a few bags … he nodded to Ren as he took off his shoes and placed the bags on the counter

Kyoko got up, slipped her phone in her pocket, and said: thank you so much Todoh-san!

Todoh smiled, and said: No problem!

Kyoko proceeded to the kitchen and started unpacking the bags

Ren asked: can I help?

Kyoko agreed right away saying: sure! … this is a great chance to learn more skills!

Ren joined Kyoko swiftly … he took a look at the recipe then said: this looks good

Saena got up and said: I'll work on the other dish then

Eager to join in, Todoh said: I can help with that!

This became a family-friend affair … Kyoko and Ren focused on one dish, while Saena and Todoh tackled the other … the kitten watched them for a little bit … then went back to its bed and laid down while cleaning itself

Kyoko gave Ren some tips and advice on how to do a couple of things … she complimented him for perfecting the craft and smiled happily

Ren was surprised he felt so comfortable in Saena's apartment … he found the atmosphere odd, but it wasn't bad … however, in the back of his mind, he wanted to know if someone is watching Kyoko here … but he couldn't think of any way to ask her or check the place

Saena heard a knock on the door and said: it must be your older brother

Todoh: I'll open the door … no need to greet him like he's welcomed here!

Kyoko and Saena chuckled then shook their heads in amusement

Ren was confused by that … but he was glad that Saena was letting her guard down and enjoying her time with Kyoko … he saw the progress between them and was very happy for Kyoko

Todoh opened the door and said: You're here?

Satoshi: Sorry, I got delayed for some personal matters … Sorry to intrude!

Saena greeted him by bowing down and saying: thank you for coming

Todoh: Hand it over!

Kyoko watched Todoh's interaction with his brother and thought (he's so different compared to Moko-san's family)

Satoshi: your so impatient as always … (he opens the file bag and takes out a stack of paper and hands it to Todoh)

Saena: We're making dinner, would you like to join us?

Satoshi: Sure … thank you for inviting me

Saena and Todoh we're simply following Satoshi's plan … he wanted his visit to seem as normal as possible, although Todoh wasn't going to let his brother feel comfortable because that's just how he is

Kyoko greeted Satoshi, saying: Good evening!

Satoshi: You are?

Saena: She's my daughter

Kyoko: My name is Mogami Kyoko … Nice to meet you!

---

(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Seeing how close Ren and Kyoko are made both Kioshi and Nanami suspicious of the type of relationship those two have

Todoh soon came back and caused more tension … Nanami was seething at the fact Todoh seemed more casual than before … and thought (he's making himself very comfortable with them)

Soon after, the four of them started cooking, and that made the tension go through the roof …

Nanami was fuming at the visual imagery this scene had

It seemed like Kyoko and Ren are the newlyweds visiting her mother and her partner, as they all decided to cook and eat a meal together

Satoshi's appearance didn't make things any better, as Nanami got up and started saying: see, he's introducing her to both the mother and daughter! … he's trying to make them into his family so he can be more involved with us

Kioshi wasn't so sure Todoh's brother was there for that purpose … he was more worried about Todoh than his brother, as he seemed much closer to both Saena and Kyoko

Nanami: She's introducing her daughter to him … I told you! … I was right!

Kioshi saw a ring on Satoshi's left finger and wondered (is he really there for that?)

** the live feed**

Satoshi: how old are you, if I may ask?

Kyoko: I'm 17 years old

Satoshi: oh? … your almost an adult … what a wonderful daughter you have here Mogami-san

Saena nodded without saying much

Satoshi looked at Ren, then asked: And you are?

Kyoko: He's my friend and co-worker

Ren: Nice to meet you, … my name is Tsuraga Ren

Satoshi: That name rings a bell … I feel like I've heard it before … (he looked at Ren apologetically) then said: I'm sorry … am I supposed to know you?

Todoh: He's a famous actor in the showbiz industry … you probably heard about him from your wife and daughter who watch TV all day!

Kioshi: you're wrong … he's already married! … he also has kids!

Nanami was surprised but she was still annoyed with this whole setting … she felt uneasy about this meetup, but didn't know why anymore

Kioshi: frankly, I think her co-worker is closer to her and Kyoko than him anyway … but who cares … it's not like I can tell them what they can or can't do … I'm heading out!

Nanami: where to?

Kioshi: Dinner with my family … they are waiting on me, and I won't delay my arrival any further!

Nanami: Don't you want to know why this man is here then?

Kioshi: No ... I'm not interested anymore … see later! …. (he swiftly opens the door and left without giving her a chance to stop him)

---

(In Saena's apartment)

Satoshi: oh! … an actor … how nice! … so that means your daughter is also in showbiz?

Saena: Yes

Satoshi: That's odd … I've never heard of you before though

Kyoko: I actually go with Kyoko only

Satoshi: Why not use your full name?

Kyoko: I want to keep my mother out of the spotlight … It's far better to use a stage name for privacy matters anyway

Satoshi: but you're only using your first name … why didn't you pick a different name completely

Todoh: I assume all the names she had picked we're not acceptable?

Kyoko blushed in embarrassment

Saena looked at Todoh and asked: how would you know that?

Todoh: It's a given … Kyoko-chan like fairy tales and fairies … she might have suggested a name the incorporates the things she liked

Kyoko pouted while complaining: I did … but the president didn't approve any of them, so we went with just Kyoko … with a different spelling … "Kyo" is from both Tokyo and Kyoto and "Ko" is for child

Remembering something, Satoshi said: I forgot to give you this … (he opened his other bag and took out a box) and said this is from Kyoto … Thank you for your hospitality

Saena: thank you

Todoh: Did you buy the whole souvenir store?

Satoshi: Maybe … At least I'm supporting local businesses back home, unlike you, who haven't even step foot in Kyoto since last year!

Kyoko looked at the bag Satoshi was holding and wondered (why is it so big … does he have more snacks in there?)

Satoshi put down his bag and said: you may be wondering why it's big … I have some equipment's for my "other job" … I don't like making so many trips back and forth, especially since Tokyo is so busy and has lots of traffic

Saena nodded without saying anything … she knew about the equipment from the email Satoshi sent them earlier … she wondered (how on earth are we going to figure out if there are cameras without making it obvious?)

Todoh: Why don't you pick a name for your little kitten based on the fairy tales you like?

Kyoko: I thought of that … but … I can't pick just one … so I'd rather go a different route

Satoshi saw the cat and said: your cat people too? … that's great!

Saena: I've heard you have cats yourself

Satoshi: Yes … I have two at home … and my parents have 4 … our sister has a dog because she likes to be different!

The kitten walked over to the 5 humans seated at the table … she sat next to Ren's chair and meowed

Ren allowed her to climb on his lap … as she laid down and let him pet her

Satoshi: Your good with pets … do you have any?

Ren: Not here … I had some back when I was younger

Todoh: what kind of pets did you have?

Ren: I had a couple of bunnies, a dog, a few birds, … I had a cat in the past too … also … I had a chicken, I named him Brain

shocked, Kyoko looked at Ren …. She covered her mouth trying to stop herself from bursting out laughing

Todoh: a chicken? … why?

Ren looked down and answered: because I was a chicken … my friend gave me that chicken so I can kill it and cook it … but I couldn't help but care for it … (He then laughed awkwardly)

Satoshi: That's such an odd thing ... perhaps he thought if you killed that chicken, you'd kill the chicken part of yourself … such an interesting concept … is that why you used to kill bugs Susu?!

Todoh looked at his brother with intent to hurt him … he was upset his brother was using a nickname people used to bully him when he was younger!

Saena looked at Todoh and felt a little bad … she had witnessed how his brother teased him … but the teasing kept getting worse for Todoh as far as she noticed

An awkward silence crept into the atmosphere

Kyoko looked at her phone and saw a name she liked … then asked: what do you think about Remi?

Ren: Remi?!

Satoshi: Remi? … like Remi, Nobody's boy?

Saena: I thought it was Remi, Nobody's girl?

Todoh: I think the boy version is the older version … this guy is so old, he can only remember ancient shows!

Satoshi: In reality, the original version is centered around a boy called Remi … I've read the original novel for it!

Kyoko: So, Remi is a boy's name?

Todoh: No … I believe it's a unisex name … you can use it for either!

Saena: If you like the name, you can use it!

Kyoko looked at her kitten, then said: Remi … Remi-chan … I like it very much!

Ren: I think it suits her well!

Satoshi: Nice name! … congrats on naming your little friend … great choice!

Kyoko noticed her timer is ringing, so she says: excuse me … I need to check on the food

Satoshi: You can cook?!

Kyoko: Yes!

Satoshi: wait … I thought you're in showbiz … are you a famous chef on cooking shows?

Kyoko: No … I'm fairly new to Showbiz … I'm trying to become a first-class actress in the future

Satoshi: oh … have you appeared on anything yet?

Todoh: She has appeared in 2 shows so far … and is working on two others! … Haven't you heard of "Dark moon"?

Satoshi: I think everyone in the country heard of it … my wife and daughter were obsessed over it … even mother joined them at some point … I think they mentioned it was better than the older version! … especially the main 3 characters

Todoh: 3 main characters?

Satoshi: forgive me … I don't remember names that well, I think my wife said both the main man and women … but I think they mentioned that … I think the name was Mio? … she was the best in their opinion … she was really scary and she got the message across better than the older version

Todoh: well, you are seated with both the main protagonist and Mio!

Confused, Satoshi asked: where?

Saena: Kyoko played Mio and Tsuraga-san played Katsuki in Dark Moon

Shocked, Satoshi looked at a shy and embarrassed Kyoko and asked: You played Mio?!

Embarrassed, Kyoko answered: Yes …

Satoshi: So, you play that bully on the other show too?!

Ren: Natsu from Box "R"?

Satoshi: Oh my! … my daughter is obsessed with you … she thinks you are amazing!

Self-conscious, Kyoko said: thank you … please thank her for her support

Satoshi looked away with a wary look on his face … he connected the dots and said: now I get it! … sorry I'm slow!

Todoh: do you have dementia now?!

Satoshi: I said I was slow! … not forgetful!

Saena looked at Kyoko and asked: is it done?

Kyoko: no … I will increase the temperature … hopefully it will cook fully soon

Ren got up and said do you want to make the side dish now?

Kyoko: sure … you can start with this!

Satoshi looked at Ren and Kyoko and thought (those two seem very close … are they together? … not important! … I will focus on my brother instead!) … he smiled and asked: are you also a fan of them, Susu?

Raising an eyebrow, Todoh looked at his brother with a threatening look

Kyoko thought (Susu is such an awful name … no wonder Todoh-san seems annoyed)

Ren whispered: Do they not get along?

Kyoko gestured (I don't know)

Satoshi: you seem to know a lot about Kyoko, too? … is it because you're her lawyer?

Todoh: I've known Mogami-san for a long time … so naturally, I would know about Kyoko-chan as well!

Satoshi: ah yes … Mogami-san is also a lawyer, correct?

Saena: Yes

Satoshi: but since your family, you can't represent your daughter yourself?

Saena: that's correct … although there is no law against that … it's better that way in practice

Satoshi: true … If this guy ends up killing someone … I wouldn't be able to investigate the case … although I have a huge urge to throw him in jail myself

Todoh: what the hell?!

Unsure, Kyoko asks: Do you hate each other that much?

Satoshi laughed and said: Not at all … I don't hate him … I just like to tease him … Kyoko! Let me warn you! … don't get too close to this freak … he's dangerous!

Unsure how to react, Saena looked at Todoh with a questioning look

Todoh: when have I ever done something bad?

Satoshi: when you betrayed me by leaving me … I thought we'd become cops together … but you left for law school instead!

Todoh: I never wanted to become a police officer anyway!

Satoshi: how could you! … we use to play detective games together all the time … but look at you now!

Todoh: I'm a respectful and skillful lawyer! … I'm confident in myself and my skills!

Satoshi: says the guy who failed the Bar exam twice when he had 3 chances to pass or he's be disowned

Kyoko: didn't he fail the first two tries on purpose?

Astonished, Satoshi asked: you know about that?

Kyoko: Katagiri-san told me about it … he said that Todoh-san likes to corner himself, … among other things!

Satoshi: like the fact he's a crude masochistic perv … I know because I lived with this guy under one roof for longer than I hoped!

Todoh: Hey! ... stop holding that against me! … your probably just salty that I didn't follow your path in life!

Satoshi: for an elite family like ours … you're the only one who swayed off the path … mom and dad accepted your decision because they had to … and you're still playing with their emotions

Todoh: if I were to follow your path in life … our parents would have forgotten about your existence a long time ago!

Satoshi: Just because you're a genius doesn't make me invisible!

Todoh smile and said: just be happy I gave you a stage to star on … I have my own plans, and I plan to follow through no matter the obstacles

Satoshi: the only obstacle you faced was you and your crude masochistic pervy personality!

Saena, Kyoko, and Ren stared at those two as they bickered back and forth … Todoh appeared annoyed by his brother and ready to kick him out

Satoshi thought (he wants to kick me out, although he's the one who asked me for help! … this man … why is so annoyed … is it because we're here? … does he care about this women's opinion of him?)

The atmosphere turned awkward once more … however Satoshi broke the silence by saying: Sorry … you might think this is unprofessional … it sure is … but he's my brother and I can't help but tease him … we don't see each other often, so I take every chance I can get … perhaps … all of you are only children?

Kyoko nodded nervously … she still believed she's an only child despite knowing that man had 3 kids who may be considered her half-siblings

Ren: yes … I'm an only child as well

Satoshi: Mogami-san too?

Saena: yes …

Satoshi: interesting … I got to say … I feel bad for all of you … having siblings is great! … unless you get stuck with a sibling like him … then you'd lucky you're an only child!

Saena wondered (what on earth did Todoh do? … I can never understand why Katagiri-san dislikes him, … moreover his brother goes above and beyond to make him seem awful)

Ren thought (what is with these two? … is that only teasing … it seemed serious!)

Kyoko: In the beginning perhaps, I agreed with Katagiri-san because of some comments he made … but in reality … Todoh-san is a great man, who goes above and beyond to help us … I no longer think Katagiri-san is right about him!

Satoshi looked at Kyoko with pity in his eyes, as he said: So, he deceived you too?!

Having had enough, Todoh said: enough with the demeaning remarks ... that's not why you're here for!

Satoshi: sure, I came because I needed to give you these … but you hardly looked through them

Todoh: I'll look through them after dinner!

Satoshi: Your no fun! … Mogami-san, how do you tolerate this guy?!

Saena: I'm not sure how to respond to that

Annoyed, Todoh said: Don't worry about it, Mogami!

Satoshi smiled as he enjoyed teasing his brother and the people around him

---

(In the Grand-Jewel Hotel)

Nanami was sitting down watching the whole conversation … she wasn't paying too much attention because she was upset about her son leaving earlier

She thought (I'm losing my grip over him! … how could his wife win him over like this?)

She looked at the screen and heard the conversation about Todoh being weird and wished her son heard all that because it might have helped make him hate Todoh-san more … she had recorded the conversation … but she lost interest … she wanted to focus more on getting her son back on her side than listen to the two brothers arguing

She suddenly got a call from someone she hired, so she minimized the live feed screen and viewed her email for a short while, before leaving … she however forgot to close the cameras, which is a mistake she might come to regret soon

---

(In a restaurant)

Anna and her 3 boys were seated at a table while waiting for Kioshi to join them

The two younger kids were busy trying to solve a puzzle that was given to them by the waiter

Hiroki saw that his two brothers weren't paying attention to him and his mom anymore, so he whispered to his mom, asking: Did you manage to tell them?

Anna shook her head in regret and said: Mogami-san wasn't in the office when I came … I left a note, but I'm not sure if she received it or not

Hiroki: Hmm … this isn't good!

Anna: I know … I'll try again on Monday!

Hiroki: You know what! … I have a better idea!

Anna: go ahead, I'm listening!

Hiroki: we should email them!

Anna: I'm not too sure emailing them is the best way to go, they don't know our email address, so they might not open it … in fears, it might be spam mail

Hiroki: No … I have Kyoko's email!

Anna: what? … how?

Hiroki: she sent me the pictures at the mall, remember?

Anna: yeah … but …

Hiroki: I know it's a long shot … but it's better than sitting here doing nothing … hoping they get your note by Monday! … do you really want to wait until Monday?

Anna: Your right … however, let's make this clear … we're only emailing her because it's our only direct way of reaching them … we won't abuse this email for any other matter!

Hiroki: Got it! … let me write something and you can proofread it before we send it over!

Anna: deal! … I'm so proud of you Hiroki!

Hiroki smiled and nodded then proceeded in writing some things down

Kioshi finally arrived and joined them … the younger kids were happy their father came, Hiroki, however, ignored him and focused on writing his important email

---

(In Saena's apartment)

Kyoko heard her second timer go off … so she checks on the food again … then looked at Ren with a worried expression

Ren: what's the matter?

Kyoko: I wonder If I messed up the recipe? … it doesn't look how it should!

Ren: if anything, I might be the one who ruined it!

Kyoko: No … let's wait for another 10 minutes before we decide!

Ren: that's alright

The Kitten walked towards Ren who looked at her and picked her up … she then climbed on his shoulder and balanced herself there

Saena noticed that the kitten was attached to Ren for some reason … she thought (he's good with animals, I presume)

The kitten then proceeded to look for a higher position, … she balanced on her back two feet and placed her front paws on Ren's head … she then tried to climb his head, which she did with Ren's help

Kyoko laughed … she took out her phone and snapped a picture then showed it to Ren

Ren smiled as he tried to be as still as possible, so he doesn't scare Remi and cause her to react or worse, fall and get hurt … Remi was still a small kitten who was around 6-7 months old

Remi looked around and suddenly froze when her eyes met something familiar … Kyoko kept snapping pictures because she thought Remi was being cute

Kyoko: ah, Remi is changing her position!

Todoh noticed that the kitten was looking at something … he wondered (is there a bug that caught her attention)

Worried, Kyoko warned: I think she might jump

Curious Ren asked: can you show me the picture you just took … so I can know which direction she's in

Kyoko showed Ren the picture, so Ren became aware of which direction the cat might jump

Ren tried to look in the same direction Remi was looking at, and he noticed a red dote reflected in Remi's eyes … Ren thought (what is that? … what is Remi looking?)

Remi changed her position, seeming like she's looking at something closely and was about to leap to catch it … which made Ren very cautious

Kyoko was also watching Remi closely … but she was too short to see what Remi was looking at … she became extra worried when Remi changed her position … she seemed interested in something and was willing to take the chance to get it

Remi finally jumped as anticipated by Kyoko and Ren

Terrified Kyoko wanted to catch her kitten before it fell and got hurt … thankfully, thanks to Ren's fast reaction, Remi was caught mid-air … he put Remi down on the floor and thought (I need to check this Red thing out!)

Ren wanted to check it out, so he smoothly lied, saying: I think Remi saw something like a bug of some sort, do you mind if I take a look, … it would be better to get rid of pests … if any

Saena nodded, allowing Ren to take a look

Ren took the chair he was sitting on and placed it, then stood on the chair and looked in the narrow space between the upper kitchen cabinet and the ceiling … sure Ren was taller than anyone in the room, but he wasn't tall enough to reach the ceiling on his tiptoes … getting a chair was ideal because he would get a better look in such a small dark space

Satoshi thought (this is a great idea to look around for something suspicious, but is he even aware of the situation? … should I say something?) … however, before he can say anything … Ren pulled a small device from the small space … it looked like a small camera with a tiny red light implying it's On

Saena was surprised Ren pulled something out, … because deep down, although she believed Kyoko wholeheartedly … she still hoped that they weren't actually being watched

Todoh looked at his brother, who sprang into action … taking the device from Ren … he tilted the lens down and identified the type of device he's dealing with … then quickly turned a small switch on the back and smiled victoriously

Kyoko looked worried … she looked at her mother who nodded to her, then put her finger on her lips implying she shouldn't speak up until Satoshi-san says it's ok

Ren feigned ignorance, as he asked: what is that?

Satoshi: This is what we call spy cameras! … now! … do you want the good news first … or should I start with the bad news?

Saena swallowed nervously … and looked at Todoh for guidance

Todoh: what good news can come out of this?!

Satoshi: Good question … the good news is … I know this type of camera and how it's usually used … I can also easily track it back to the owner or seller! … see the switch I clicked! … that will prevent the person watching from closing the camera and preventing us from finding them!

Saena: I guess that's good … I assume you used these before?

Satoshi: Nope … but I know the resources behind them … these types are often found on the black market … some shady people supply them … let's say, people like in the Mafia … no … more like people who will get paid to do anything really!

Todoh: what's the bad news then?

Kyoko walked over to her mom and looked concerned … Saena seemed equally concerned if not more … this was a breach of their privacy and it's not acceptable at all

Satoshi: The bad news is … this type of device comes in pairs … meaning … we need to look for another one … you won't find these in odd numbers!

Ren volunteered to help since he was the tallest … Satoshi opened his bag and handed Todoh a device that will beep once it comes close to other devices ... which made their search easier

Todoh and Ren walked around the kitchen and easily found the second pair … Satoshi took the camera and clicked the switch … he then opened his laptop, attached a wire to one of the camera's and opened a program that would track the camera, it's owner's information, and possibly pinpoint a location to where the feed is sent to

Worried, Saena asked: if you found two of them here … can there be more elsewhere?

Satoshi: That's possible … as I said, this camera comes in pairs … so if you find one, you need to look for the other … you can attach up to 12 cameras of this kind to one system … since you found 2, you have the possibility of finding 10 others … but it could be less … given the size of this apartment… I would say 4-8 would be sufficient to cover the whole area

Saena covered her face with one of her hands trying to compose herself … knowing they found cameras was bad enough

Todoh: is there anything else we need to know?

Satoshi: give me a second … Hmmm … seeing this information worries me … but the good thing is, we only need to find 4 more … since the system is attached to 6 in total

Todoh: So, we need to find 4 more, right?

Satoshi: Yes … you two keep looking … perhaps you should look in the living room … since you already checked the kitchen

Saena: who is behind this?

Satoshi: I need to do more digging to find that out … but, can you think of anyone that might have their eyes on you?

Todoh: we can only think of that dirty cop! … but …

Satoshi: It could be him … he has always done things unconventionally, even using the black market's help at times… so I won't even be surprised if it's him behind this

Todoh: We found another one! … (he turns it and clicks the switch his brother showed him earlier)

Kyoko: that means we have 3 more to find?

After a short while of looking, Ren said: Found another one!

Satoshi: 4 down … 2 more to go … hmm… this is a newer version of the type I know

Todoh: what do you mean?!

Satoshi: Camera quality is better … it covers more space … and this type allows for recording as well!

Ren: Recording?

Satoshi: Yes … it can record both picture and Audio … and specs are better than the version I'm more familiar with … this is also equipped with a wider lens which covers more area

Saena felt more stressed hearing that … she couldn't understand how someone would come and install up to 6 cameras shamelessly

Todoh: the living room is clear now

In denial, Kyoko asks: but you only found 2 … where are the other 2?!

Saena looked at Kyoko who was knowingly concerned and said: probably in the bedroom!

Hearing that made Todoh really upset … the bedroom is a private room, that people feel comfortable doing whatever they want in … putting a camera there is a huge breach of their privacy

With Saena's permission, Todoh and Ren entered the room looking for the last two cameras … they quickly found one … but they couldn't locate the last one

Ren: Are there any other rooms besides the bathroom?

Saena shook her head, as fear seeped in, she thought (if a Camera was found in the bathroom, then what?)

Luckily, Todoh calmed her down by saying: found it … it wasn't placed near the ceiling like the other 5 … this one is placed between the unused Futons

The cameras were given to Satoshi who connected the wire to each one of them so he can figure out the main one … and once he did, he was able to track the location back to an IP address … he then sent that IP address to his friend and asked him to send him information regarding it

Ren, Kyoko, Saena, and Todoh sat down and silence filled the room … Kyoko timer went off, but Saena was the one who got up to check the food, which was finally cooked … she then took it out and put the next dish in the oven

Todoh tapped his finger on the table as he tried to compose himself … he was this close to running out the door and confronting that shady detective … but he wanted to wait for more evidence

Kyoko opened her phone and saw that she had just received an email from an address she wasn't too familiar with … she opens the email and read it silently

** The Email**

Hi, this is Hiroki

I know you're not expecting this email, especially from someone like me

Perhaps you already know who I am already … but trust me, I'm only reaching out to you, because I have to. Honestly, my mom tried to meet your mother, but she wasn't available, and although she left a note, we don't know how soon she will receive it, so we deiced to contact you through your email that you shared with me because this matter can't be ignored or delayed

This email is to warn you that your being spied on by my grandmother, she has several cameras in your place, and she can watch you on her iPad … we only discovered this yesterday

Lastly, we would like to apologize that we watched you yesterday, but I promise that we stopped as soon as we realized what is happening … and I promise that we will never watch it again

I'm sorry this is happening to you

I hope you can put a stop to it soon

Good luck,

Hiroki

**End**

Ren looked at Kyoko who seemed very focused on her phone … he tapped her on her shoulder trying to get her attention.

Kyoko looked at him then looked down at her phone … she got up and approached her mother and showed her the email

Saena read through the email then looked at Kyoko with a surprised look, she then headed to the living room and opened her bag, then opened the note she got from the receptionist before leaving

** Note **

This is Anna

Mogami-san … I'm warning you, you are being spied on at your place … I'm not sure of his involvement, but I'm certain my mother-in-law is behind this! … I'm sorry this is happening to you!

I wish I knew more, but I only learned about this yesterday night … I wouldn't like this to happen to me, so I wanted to notify you, so you can put a stop to this as soon as possible

Good luck,

Anna

Todoh: what is that?

Saena handed the note to Todoh, then picked up her bag and walked away … she entered her bedroom and closed the door … she leaned on the door before dropping down to the floor in sheer agony … her emotions were riled up, leaving her feeling disoriented and confused

Kyoko looked at her mother as she disappeared into the bedroom, then looked down with a worried expression … fearful of what might transpire out of this situation … she also felt some guilt for not opening up about the issue much earlier

Ren got up and put his hand on Kyoko's shoulder, not knowing how to comfort her, he looked at her, as she looked back at her phone, then handed it to him, allowing him to understand her distress

Satoshi: I got a location and a name … the person who is probably watching you is Miyasaki Nanami, who staying at the Grand-Jewel Hotel … do you happen to know her?

Not getting any response ... he looked behind him, seeing Todoh visibly angry … Kyoko seemed scared, and at the same time looked slightly guilty … Ren was clenching a phone with a furious look on his face, … while Saena was nowhere to be seen

He got up and asked: why do you know, that I don't … Todoh?!

---

Author notes:

Chapter 24 Ends here!

Hi everyone … this is a long chapter, I know! … but I wanted to cram as much as I can of a long Friday full of conversations … I put the most important events I wanted to include in this chapter

Also, medical things are just imaginary … that just helps my narrative and my direction for this fanfic.

What will happen next? … and did Anna and Hiroki make the right decision? … what about the kitten's name, Remi? …. And last but not least … Susu is losing it! ~Am I right? ~

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

Reviews are much appreciated

Until next time! Jane!