Mozu slowly smiled at her from ear to ear. "He won't believe you. It's too abrupt and two weeks is too much for me. One week, Kohaku."
She bowed her head and shook it. "I'll help you, so it won't be too obvious, 'kay?" he offered as he gently caressed her cheek, though disgusted she lets him to not make matters worst.
Kohaku knew deep down that it would eventually come to this, and this is how it would unfold. When she entered into this arrangement, she fully accepted that, in the end, she would break up with Senku because she would choose Mozu. That's why she couldn't entertain Senku's proposal. She's glad, she hadn't invested deeper feelings in Senku yet, and she made it clear to him that she didn't have romantic feelings for him.
The months they spent together proved beneficial for both of them. He desired her, and she willingly gave herself to him. She needed a pretend boyfriend, and they portrayed a deeply in love couple to the world. He desired more from her, and for a brief period, she complied.
The image of his painting for her flashed on her mind. But what can a memory do to get her out of this situation? Maybe he is just infatuated with her. Yes. He didn't love her that much. Yes, she needed to think it that way, even though her heart constricts at the thought. Back then, she doesn't believe love can be created in a few months, by two strangers who have never even experienced it in a romantic way.
It's exhausting to keep fighting against her mother and all the schemes and plans to make her yield. The fact that Mozu Asano's clan is one of the most powerful in their country only makes it worse. He and her mother have the potential to illegally order harm to her sister or put her mentally unstable father at risk.
She fears stumbling back to where she came from. She felt alone in all this, and seeking help would prove futile.
Every time she considers leaving her father or her sister to their fate, guilt sets in. They all weigh heavily on her, and she's tired of waiting for everything to get better. She feels used, manipulated because they know how important they are to her. She can't bear to leave or give up on them. Kohaku felt a deep sense of guilt as she considered the weight of her decision. What was once a source of inspiration to pursue her passions had become a burden. And yet, she knows she can't bear to leave. She would cast all bullets, catch all sharp knives, and even break her own bones just to make sure they were safe and sound.
Yet when it comes to herself, she refuses to face her drizzles. She refuses to embrace her darkness. She feels guilty for every slice of joy she feels.
Kohaku guesses she was born to love people and never herself. She was born to lend a hand, but never to ask for help.
"Fine." Her voice broke, as she answered Mozu her final decision, she felt her world crumble.
Kohaku expected this; she had made it clear before that she would choose whoever was more important in her life, even if it meant breaking up with Senku. Yes. Its' her freedom that's at stake. But if her freedom would cause her father despair, or her sister to die, she'd rather live miserable and by then for sure she will find the spaces in between railings of her cage freeing enough.
Senku said he likes her, but she knows it isn't that deep. Their relationship began with sex and Senku openly admitted he hadn't experience falling in love before and with his reputation, for sure he had no shortage of options in loving someone else. She needed to think it that way so she wouldn't hurt so much.
Kohaku knew she also made it clear for him that she doesn't love him, so this should be easy.
"There's no turning back, Kohaku. I hope you know you can't say no to this." Mozu smirked.
Since meeting him, she had hoped that there might be a good person inside him somewhere. However, the events of tonight have cast doubt on this hope. She wonders if, perhaps, she was similar to him before her memory loss. Yet, the fact that she successfully escaped his control in the past suggests that they are not the same.
Even with a simple rejection from Kohaku, he couldn't seem to understand and wouldn't leave her be. She should have recognized the warning signs earlier. Damn her connection with him and her mysterious past. Why did she ever entertained the hope that he might be different? Why did she allow herself to believe that he could truly love her and be a decent person?
She's wrong to assume there's good in him. The way his men aimed their guns at her, despite her being harmless, while Mozu casually observed, spoke volumes. His subsequent threats and insults only reinforced the toxic nature of the relationship her past self had with him. She knew she'd be miserable with him till the day she dies, but if it meant for her loved ones to be out of harm's way, she'll willingly took the bullet.
"Oh, I bet that scientist would lose his mind when he knows this," he maniacally laughed in front of her.
"Senku had nothing to do with this, Mozu. This is my decision; leave him out of it!"
"Leave him? Do you have any idea what that moron had been doing in the shadows before formally meeting you? He's been destroying those subordinate clans that we have in my family in the hopes of revealing your secrets, Kohaku!"
"What are you saying? I don't—"
"Didn't I tell you before that you're an assassin under my clan? You're so carefree living your luxurious life that you never knew the hell you put me into!"
Kohaku's eyes widened in disbelief, a mix of shock and confusion etched across her face. The revelation hit her like a sudden storm, leaving her struggling to comprehend Mozu's accusations.
"Senku would never do something like that." Kohaku retorted, her voice wavering with a hint of desperation.
Mozu's expression remained stern, a steely resolve in his eyes. "You're naive, Kohaku. He might have fooled you with his charming facade, but not me! He's been dismantling our connections, tearing apart the very fabric of my clan!"
Kohaku shook her head, and look at him in anger for continuously lying at her face, "What proof do you have?"
Mozu let out a bitter laugh, the tension in the air thickening. "Proof? Our demolished alliances, the shattered alliances, and the whispers of betrayal within our own ranks. That's the proof, Kohaku. Senku is a danger to me, to you, and to everything my clan have built."
All this time, she fought hard for her identity and freedom, but in the end, it didn't matter. Everything she had done in the past was now coming back to haunt her.
"Enough of that, you'll break up with him soon enough, so why bother?... Know what? As of now, the media outside is already crafting stories about this meeting... about us."
Kohaku was taken aback, she knew that if she were to kneel before him at that moment, he would remain indifferent. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on her, as her reputation hung in the balance."Mozu, I can handle—"
"It will be too obvious. If you break up with him immediately, he'll—"
"It isn't obvious! Just don't interfere! I can handle this. I'll break up with him!" she said frantically.
He raised an eyebrow. "It's too late now, Kohaku. By now, they've probably published the rumors."
"I have a name to uphold! I have a career that—"
"That worthless thing you're doing, Kohaku? I wanted you away from that relentless spotlight once we get married!"
"Don't act as if you have the right to decide what's best for me!" she retorted; her voice laced with frustration. "My career is important to me, Mozu. That worthless thing you called? It's my passion, my dream, and you have no right to belittle it. I'm not yours to begin with. I'm only doing this for a reason!" Kohaku's eyes flashed with anger. "I know you dislike Senku and that he is your clan's enemy, but can't we handle it quietly?"
His eyes widened in a creepy way, and he smiled at her. "Did you think about that when you rejected me for all the world to see?"
"You proposed even when you knew my feelings—"
"Shh. Then it's done, Kohaku. You're just making things difficult for yourself." He approached Kohaku, pushing a stray hair behind her ear, a gesture she found repulsive. "I don't care about your career or the bastard! Just do it! Or are you only making excuses to escape again? I swear I waited in the shadows for you for six years, Kohaku. I won't tolerate it again!"
"I'm not!"
"Then it's done." They locked eyes.
"Your tour is almost done, right? That's good because you are going home to your mother right now."
"What? I'm not! I have my own life, Mozu!"
"Until you break up with that bastard, you are staying with your mother!" Kohaku clenched her fist, hearing how obvious his threat was.
She would comply with their agreement. Yes, she would. She had long accepted this fate anyway. She saw it coming. In fact, she was grateful she bought herself some time to ponder over the foolish idea of having a pretend boyfriend just because she didn't know how to solve her own problem. In turn, she was glad she was able to enjoy her life even if just for a short period of time.
She only involved Senku in this because she couldn't figure out the problem on her own. She knew she couldn't handle it by herself! Her mind raced with thoughts of apologies she would tell Senku that hopefully wouldn't break his heart. Her friendship with him was special, but her sister's life was more important.
"This is ridiculous, Mozu, we don't—"
"You really think I'm stupid? You may say yes now, but when you start telling your friends about it, your mind will change—"
"I won't! Leave them, Mozu! Yes, they are my friends, but I have already made my decision! Please!" Whatever Gen and the others might say, she knew they wouldn't fully understand her situation.
The guards finally let her out and she walked out ahead while Mozu followed her. He wanted them to walk out together when they left the room, but Kohaku felt the last conversation they had, where he forced her to stay with her mother, crossed the line. She was willing to go along with whatever he wanted, but that was something she hadn't expected.
"Hi, Kohaku!" She heard someone call her despite the poker face plastered on her.
Did she appear friendly as she walked out? She probably is one of those media journalists wanting to interview her for a scoop. They dared to get her attention even though she was sure she looked angry, but she remembered the real reason – most likely, she was hired by Mozu's people to discredit her in Senku's eyes. Kohaku grits her teeth.
"Oh, sorry for disturbing you both. I was about to ask if the rumor about…" she noticed how her eyes darted to the man behind her, "you breaking up with Ishigami Senku is true?"
"Yes, it's true!" Mozu chuckled and took the lead in answering, while Kohaku, feeling weak, stepped back, her chest tightening as she realized that what he said was indeed true.
He planned all of this, she's sure of it. While they were still inside, he was already spreading false information! She knew he wouldn't accept no for an answer to all his offers inside that room. Whether she liked it or not, she had no choice as he gradually tarnished her reputation.
"Oh?" The onlookers were at a loss for words, offering forced smiles while avoiding further involvement.
"Don't tell me you actually believe they are serious?" Mozu interjected, observing their silence. "The man is an apathetic and a playboy, and that's a fact! Come on, Kohaku…" Mozu extended his hand towards her to leave.
The heated exchange with Mozu left Kohaku emotionally drained, and as she retreated from the confrontation, she found herself accosted by numbers of relentless reporters eager to extract a response from the singer.
Kohaku refused his hand and walked briskly ahead of him. The need to defend herself clashed with her exhaustion from the emotional turmoil of the evening.
In that moment, Kohaku chose silence as her response. The harsh flashbulbs of the paparazzi cameras flickered relentlessly, capturing the storm of conflicting emotions on her face. Anger, hurt, and defiance swirled beneath the surface, but she refused to grant the media the satisfaction of a reaction.
The reporter persisted, probing further, "Kohaku, are you avoiding the question? Are you concerned about your image now?"
Kohaku's lips formed a tight line as she maintained her silence. The weight of public scrutiny felt heavier than ever, and the unfairness of being judged for a narrative crafted by someone else fueled her frustration. As the questions continued, Kohaku made a deliberate choice to disengage. With a steely resolve, she turned away from the probing microphones and flashing cameras, walking away from the chaos. The silence spoke louder than words, leaving the media to speculate on her perceived guilt or innocence. Not only were they probing into her already strained relationship with Senku, but there was also another issue, possibly orchestrated by Mozu, aiming to destroy her career and force her into submission. She didn't know how the news spread or where it originated.
Mozu could have paid someone to spread those rumors, dragging her career into the mess. However, a more significant concern weighed on her mind – Senku's father and his friends, with the news circulating, she was sure that his family also knew about it. She had never been comfortable with strangers, but they treated her well, and the thought of disappointing them was deeply unsettling.
The fabricated drama had not only possibly strained her relationship with Senku but may have also painted her as a villain in the eyes of the public.
"Don't worry, with me around, you won't be ruined." Mozu reached out to her with a smirk as she watched the door of his car open. He was smiling as if everything he planned had been successfully accomplished. Numb to her emotions, she entered the car with him.
Kohaku distanced herself from him, and in response, he reached out to lightly stroke her hair. She turned her head away from his touch. The smirk on his face slowly faded when he noticed her avoidance, but he continued as if accustomed to being rejected by her.
"The rumors will persist, portraying him as he is, an apathetic and most of all a playboy," Kohaku sighed at Mozu's words. "And they'll say I was just there as your shoulder to cry on, then you fell in love with me," he smirked, resting his arm on the car window, observing her as she distanced herself.
Kohaku clenched her teeth, wondering how long he had been plotting to put her in this situation.
"You must've heard by now the other one I orchestrated," Mozu chuckled, seemingly reveling in the chaos he had sown. "You know, I wanted to make it easier for you to accept our situation. What better way than to create a scandal that would make Ishigami Senku and your current fame undesirable? People love a good scandal, especially one involving a playboy and a snake, don't they?"
Kohaku's eyes widened in disbelief, realizing that Mozu orchestrated another entire fiasco to tarnish her reputation and manipulate her into accepting his deal. The weight of the revelation added to the burden she already carried from their earlier confrontation.
"I can't believe you'd stoop this low, Mozu," Kohaku retorted, her voice a mixture of anger and betrayal. "Do you still think I'd fall for you? Never."
Mozu continued to wear his sinister smile, unapologetic for his actions. "Reject me however you like, it worked, didn't it? Now, you have a choice to make. Stay with your precious career and watch your sister suffer or come with me and save them both."
"You're hopeless."
"You also need to break up with him within the week, Kohaku. You're lucky I don't force you to marry me immediately. Consider this mercy and a favor to you. Don't disappoint me again."
Kohaku, though emotionally drained, couldn't let Mozu's manipulations go unanswered. She took a deep breath, trying to steady her voice despite the turmoil within her. "You can play your games all you want, Mozu, but you know nothing about Senku. He's not a playboy. I know him better than you ever will. You can tarnish my reputation, but you can't change the truth. Senku has been nothing but genuine with me."
Mozu's expression darkened, and he grabbed her arm forcefully. "Don't underestimate me, Kohaku. I can destroy everything you hold dear, and you can't stop me. Choose wisely."
Kohaku winced at his grip on her arm but refused to let fear overpower her. "You can threaten me all you want, but I won't let you control my life forever. I won't let you ruin everything. I'll find a way out of this mess, and you'll regret underestimating me."
"Foolish girl," Mozu sneered. "Don't you remember what I'm capable of doing? Your sister's life is in your hands. Senku or her, make your choice. You won't be able to save them both."
Kohaku's resolve wavered. The weight of the ultimatum was crushing, and she felt a sense of powerlessness. Mozu's threat echoed in her mind, and the fear for her sister's safety overwhelmed her.
"Just go ahead, Kohaku. Tell him you're not interested anymore... and that you're in love with me. Otherwise, your sister's life is at stake," Mozu grinned, wearing an expression of self-satisfaction. "It's not a tough choice. Given his social standing, he has numerous options. He'll drop you instantly. That's why I won't settle for just two weeks. Consider yourself lucky; I didn't insist on you ending things with him by tomorrow."
Kohaku's mother was already waiting for them outside her mansion upon their arrival. Just when Kohaku believed her disappointment couldn't grow any deeper, her mother managed to exceed expectations. The fact that her mother was already there, ready for her, indicated her involvement. It was clear she had been deliberately set up.
Why do I keep on justifying her when all she does is disappoint me?
"Kohaku!" her mother happily exclaimed, reaching out for a hug. Kohaku looked away and walked straight ahead. "Kohaku, you're rude!" her mother demanded as Kohaku passed by.
"Where is my room?" Kohaku nonchalantly asked one of her mother's maids, confident that it had been prepared in advance for her arrival. "Kohaku!" her mother insisted, her tone of happiness had Kohaku doubting her whether she was being sarcastic or genuinely expecting Kohaku to return happy. No one seemed willing to guide her to her room, as her mother continued to engage her in conversation. She glanced at her mother and caught sight of Mozu in the distance, talking to his security. She could already picture him assigning guards to ensure she wouldn't run away.
Though her mother hugged her tightly, Kohaku stood there, not feeling anything and not reciprocating the embrace. "I knew Mozu will knock some sense out of you!"
"Do you honestly believe I am here because I realized you're right, mother?" Kohaku said with a hint of anger. She gently pulled away from her mother's embrace and looked at her, irritation evident in her face.
"Kohaku..." her mother responded, sounding offended. She still had a grip on Kohaku's other arm. Kohaku removed her mother's hand from her and turned away once again, "I just want my room, please—"
"Kohaku! That's for you!" her mother insisted from behind. Kohaku scoffed, expressing disbelief at her mother's persistence.
"I never liked Senku for you from the beginning! That Ishigami will just deceive you like—"
"I came here because I agreed to the deal for the sake of my sister!" Kohaku snapped, turning to face her mother. "What kind of mother are you to threaten to kill your own daughter?" Her mother fell silent.
"I never once agreed to your desires just to make you happy or admit you were right, Mom! I came here because I had no other choice in this situation!" Her mother remained silent and observed her. She signaled the servants to leave for a moment and closed the door, leaving them alone.
"I know why you're like this," Her mother's expression shifted into being serious and cross her arms at her, Kohaku sighed.
"That's for sure." She sarcastically replied.
A moment of silence lingered before her mother resumed speaking. She moved to the window on the other side and stared out at the rain. The persistent rain had been falling since Kohaku was in the car on the way there, yet, for her, it seemed as though the rain itself was offering solace to her wounded heart. Her mother turned to look at her from the window. Though the surroundings were dim, there was a subtle glow outside. Kohaku could discern the solemn expression on her mother's face, even though it was partly obscured by shadows. Leaning against the window, her mother folded her arms.
"I don't like Senku for you, and that's a fact."
Kohaku scoffed again. What use were her mother's reasons now when her heart was already broken? The only thing that could stop her right now was if someone just ended her life. Kohaku wondered if that would be the better option at this moment.
"Look at you, Kohaku. You've come so far. You're famous, a global superstar. But I know you don't like the spotlight. It's obvious in your works. You only do it to earn money for your father and sister's hospitalization. You're always half-hearted in your entertainment endeavors. You value it... but at the same time, you don't. You just know how to keep it to your advantage."
Her mother was right. She loved singing but not the fame, it was suffocating but at the same time exhilarating. She only used it was a way to use her talent while earning money to help her sister live. Kohaku didn't like it; she realized that a long time ago. But she was grateful for everything it did for her. She had amassed millions of dollars in record sales, and she had many possessions, but she wasn't happy. In fact, she felt lonely, sad, and miserable. Until Senku.
"You had lots of suitors vying for your attention. You've been proposed to two times, even when you were young. You turned all of them down, for what reason?" Kohaku guessed she knew where this conversation was heading, and she was just relieved that her mother's voice remained calm and composed.
"Just to end up with that Ishigami bastard?"
"If you're going to scold me because you also think he's a playboy, well, I can very well assure you, Mom, that he's not—" Her mother sighed.
"I know, I have not been a good mother to you," Kohaku snorts, "I am aware of my faults towards you. But of all the things I've done and all my shortcomings, there's one thing I don't regret."
Kohaku lifted her gaze to her mother. She was slowly growing angry again. Her mother looked sad and worried, but her coldness overshadowed it.
"I will never regret separating you from Senku."
"Are you saying that you also know about my past involving him?"
"It's understandable that he never mentioned that part from you. I know he won't dump you, but I am thankful for Mozu for getting you away from him." Her mother looks at the window with a pained expression that also revealed subtle hints of anger in it.
"Senku's mother, Senri, and I were once close friends. We shared dreams and aspirations, but everything changed when we both fell for the same man. It created a rift between us, leading to a bitter rivalry that extended beyond romantic entanglements," her mother revealed, her voice laced with the bitterness of a long-held grudge.
Kohaku furrowed her brow, suddenly confused by what her mother had just said.
"Our friendship morphed into animosity, and when the opportunity presented itself, I made choices that I believed would secure our family's position. By then, Senri had married Senku's father, and I had married your father. Senri went on to forge a legacy, establishing herself in the scientific world. Meanwhile, I found myself ensnared in a deceitful business deal, manipulated into investing. Upon discovering the deception, instead of finding support, Senri interfered, driving the final wedge into the coffin of our friendship and intensifying my resentment towards her,"
Kohaku was stunned, her mother mentioning Senku's mother meant...
As Kohaku absorbed this shocking revelation, she stared at her mother completely with a confused expression.
"I know Mozu must have mentioned to you that you were an assassin in his clan. He's right. Your father sold you when he lost a gamble with them. I tried my best to save you, but they eventually discovered my past connections to Senri. Fueled by my desire for revenge, I complied with what they wanted to do with you."
Kohaku's heart sank, when she realised where she is going with this.
"You were ordered to kill Senku."
Is this true? This can't be true, right?
"But you resisted, when you realized you've fallen for him, and I'm thankful the memory of that failure was wiped away when you had that accident."
The rain outside intensified, its persistent drizzle growing louder as if nature itself wished to comfort her. The rhythmic pattering against the windowpane mirrored the tumult within Kohaku, a desperate attempt to muffle the revelations echoing in her ears. Was this the reason why his friends were... suspicious of her?
In that moment of revelation, Kohaku's mind flashed back to the restaurant where she felt Senku's friends had treated her with suspicion. It all began to make sense, as the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. The distrustful glances, the guarded conversations—it wasn't mere paranoia.
The rain outside continued to drum on, creating a dissonant symphony with her racing thoughts. Kohaku felt the weight of guilt settling down on her.
The downpour seemed to encapsulate her desire to escape the harsh reality, each raindrop a plea for deafening oblivion.
"Kohaku, if I had a choice, I'd take this secret with me to the grave... I can't bear to see you being deceived by that man, like his mother did to me! This is also the reason why I divorced your father. He wanted to reconcile me with that woman, but I refused. For a long time, I tried so hard to keep our family together, but he turned to drugs, and I couldn't tolerate that. Just like Senri, he chose to betray me."
Kohaku still reeling her head from all the revelation, pulled herself together to stood her ground, "I might not remember everything from the past, Mom, but one thing is clear: I never felt you. You tried so hard to push me and my sister away, Mom! I get it; you had your reasons, but it doesn't change the fact that we grew up feeling abandoned," Kohaku said bitterly.
"I'm sorry," her mother said quietly (Kohaku wasn't sure if she's really sorry), "But believe me, the only way to keep you safe from that man is if I put an end to the Ishigamis."
Kohaku furrowed her brow once again. She couldn't fully comprehend the anger her mother had long been harboring towards Senku's family, particularly his deceased mother.
"I did succeed in putting an end to her awful ambitions… Senri died eventually in the end pursuing what she loves… but I am not sure if I am successful… maybe on the surface… but the truth is, Kohaku, I can see that you still have feelings for him,"
Kohaku, overwhelmed by the revelation, only looked at her mother with a mixture of confusion and disbelief. The pieces of the puzzle were falling into place, and she was starting to understand the depth of her mother's motivations.
"I had hoped that by pushing you towards Mozu, you would forget about Senku and his family. I thought that by tarnishing your reputation, you would have no choice but to distance yourself from them," her mother continued, her gaze fixed on Kohaku's eyes.
Kohaku felt a surge of anger and betrayal. All this time her mother was the one pulling the strings behind the scenes, manipulating her life for a vendetta she had no part in. Kohaku, despite the whirlwind of emotions, managed to find her voice. "So, you used me as a pawn in your revenge? You played with my life, my feelings, and for what? Your grudge?"
"I thought it was the only way to protect you and to also ensure our family's honor," her mother defended, though there was a hint of remorse in her eyes.
"If you wanted revenge so much... you should have never brought me into this world! You could've damn aborted me!"
"Kohaku... I know we have more things to talk about, but I am just being—"
"You probably saw this coming! You never loved me as your daughter to begin with! You just gave birth to me, so you'd have someone to use in the future!" Kohaku felt her face go numb from a sudden slap from her mother. She could feel her jaw tightening; the force of the slap reached her bones.
"How dare you accuse me of that!" her mother shouted at her. "I am saving you from future heartaches and bad decisions, Kohaku! That's how I show love! You're so ungrateful for everything I've done for you! I provided for you! Your father was deep in debt! Without me, you wouldn't have been able to attend the best schools! And—"
"If I could return it all to you, I would!" Kohaku cut her off unapologetically.
Kohaku knew she didn't want to hurt people because she understands how it feels to be hurt, yet they don't consider her perspective! They don't care about her!
Her mother's eyes were moist. She looked deeply offended and hurt.
"Then if you really want to repay all those favors, the least you can do is listen and follow me, Kohaku! That's your payment! And this is not about your stepfather's business anymore! This is for you!"
Kohaku gritted her teeth and stared at her. Her mother seemed almost hysterical as she continued, "I brought you into this world because I love you, even when you were still inside my womb!" A tear rolled down Kohaku's cheek. She knew how manipulative her mother could be, but hearing those words felt oddly right—comforting, and she didn't understand. Even after all the times her mother hurt her, she still wanted to hear those words from her.
"I struggled a lot when I had you! We were rich, but I wasn't supported by my family because of your father! Your sickly sister and I went through a lot with your good-for-nothing father, who's just an addict and can't provide well! I tried everything in my power to get you away from that clan where he gambled you away. I left your father and married your stepfather because he not only loves me but can also stand by his love for me, just like accepting you and your sister, accepting me, and saving us!"
Kohaku closed her eyes tightly. She vowed never to become a mother when she's not ready because this is not how it should be.
"If I didn't love you, I would have let you suffer as an assassin under the Asano clan where your father sold you! If I didn't love you, Kohaku, I would have abandoned you by now and let you get hurt!"
Kohaku sighed as she absorbed her mother's words.
"I don't care if you're upset that I chose Mozu over Senri's son! The idea of you being with him disgusts me, Kohaku! You're better off with Mozu, and that's my final decision!" she insisted. "I'm sure he must have told you about the code you're bound by. That's your responsibility because you failed your mission! I understand you wanted the freedom to choose and make mistakes, but wait until you have a daughter, and you'll understand what I'm talking about!"
Days passed, and Kohaku remained secluded in her room, the weight of her thoughts crushing her spirit. Barely eating, she found solace in staring into the void, replaying the events that had led her to this emotional abyss.
The guilt of almost causing harm to Senku in the past hung heavy in the air.
How terrible was she to nearly inflict harm on someone she cared about? What kind of person falls in love with their assassin, even if the memory of it is erased due to an accident?
And yet they still couldn't be together. It felt like a cruel twist of fate, a punishment she couldn't escape.
In the haunting silence of her room, Kohaku grappled with the harsh reality of her past actions. The realization of being both the assailant and the one who harbored feelings for her supposedly target before gnawed at her conscience. The forgotten identity of her past never failed to hunt her and would always be a part of her.
Perhaps this was her karma, a cosmic reckoning for the bad deeds she did in the past that she could no longer ignore.
Kohaku felt hesitant to check her phone, avoiding messages from her friends and Senku. She ignored calls from Minami and decided to turn off her phone. Feeling lost, she didn't know what to do.
She had once yearned for control over her life and had felt successful—graduating with flying colors, making a mark in the music industry, achieving various feats, and choosing a relationship style and partner that suited her. But all of that seemed worthless. It was merely a facade hiding her lonely and miserable life, giving the illusion of independence and control.
The truth is, she's not in control. Kohaku had a weakness, and it was her sister.
"Where are you going?"
Her mother's voice interrupted the stillness of dawn as Kohaku quietly slipped out of the room. She had intended to sneak away, assuming her mother was still asleep, but to her surprise, her mother was already in the living area. Kohaku wordlessly walked past her, and her mother followed.
"Kohaku," her mother called out, persisting as they approached the door.
She halted abruptly when she noticed the bodyguards mobilizing upon her exit. Kohaku gritted her teeth in disbelief. What? Someone will be watching over me?
"Where are you going?" her mother asked, following her. She closed her eyes and swallowed hard, reminding herself that she chose this and had to comply.
"I just have somewhere to go—"
"You're living in my house. It's my right to know where you're going!" her mother insisted.
Kohaku tried hard to remain silent and bit her tongue. Words of defiance and anger were on the tip of her tongue. She wasn't a child anymore to be treated like this! But she also knew it wasn't just about that. Seeing the bodyguards and this paranoia, it seemed like they thought she was planning to escape, which, in fact, she was.
"I'll visit my sister."
Her mother's gaze lingered on her before she nodded and looked at the bodyguards. They wanted to keep her within their sight 24/7 to ensure she wouldn't escape. The two bodyguards escorted her to the car. She followed quietly and gazed outside while the driver maneuvered.
She realized she hadn't informed Chrome that she would be visiting to check on her sister's well-being and to also confirm if she was still in the hospital. The threats made her feel as if she wasn't there anymore.
In the sterile, hushed atmosphere of Ruri's hospital room, Kohaku hesitantly entered. Her steps echoed softly on the tiled floor, and the rhythmic beeping of the medical equipments emphasized the silence. The sight of her sister lying motionless in a comatose state tugged at Kohaku's heartstrings. As she stood by Ruri's bedside, Chrome unexpectedly entered the room, dressed in his doctor's outfit.
Relief washed over Kohaku, evident in the deep exhale she released. Chrome, noticing her presence, approached her with a subtle expression of concern. "Kohaku…"
"Hi, Chrome, I'm sorry if I wasn't able to notify you of my visit."
"It's fine… it's actually nice to see you here." Chrome proceeded to record Ruri's vitals through the monitor and would occasionally cast glances at Kohaku, who he noticed was silently weeping. Not wanting to see her sad, he took out a handkerchief and gave it to her.
"Oh… I don't—"
"Take it."
"Thank you." She sat beside her sister as Chrome put down the clipboard beside him.
"I heard about the news online. Is it true? Did you really break up with Senku?" he inquired, his eyes reflecting genuine worry.
Kohaku, meeting his gaze, hesitated before nodding. "Yes, it's true," she admitted, a mixture of emotions crossing her face.
Chrome, still concerned, continued, "I've known you for a long time, Kohaku."
Kohaku stopped sobbing and looked at him beside her, Chrome slightly smiled, "Since we were teens. And I've seen the history you have with Senku." He paused, choosing his words carefully. "He can help."
"I… I don't know what to say." Kohaku said as she wiped her tears away, "Thank you for being honest, Chrome." Kohaku wrestled within herself, torn between following Chrome's advice and heeding the warnings from her mother and Mozu. Something told her it wouldn't bode well for her, considering the threats they had thrown at her. No. She wouldn't dare go against them and harm other people again.
"I know he can help, but..."
"There's something else, isn't there? Something you don't want to talk about. You believe he doesn't deserve you."
"Look, Chrome, I can't..." Kohaku started, her voice faltering as she grappled with the intricate emotions that tangled within her. Chrome's expression maintained its understanding demeanor, silently urging her to open up further, "I wish I could tell you everything, but..." she hesitated, frustration evident in her eyes, "there are things I can't share. It's not about trust; I'll be fine, Chrome."
Chrome nodded empathetically, "Kohaku, you don't have to carry it all on your own."
"Chrome, there are forces at play that I can't control, and I can't risk putting you or anyone else in danger. I hope you can understand." Taking a deep breath, Kohaku met Chrome's gaze. "I trust you, Chrome. I trust you with Ruri's well-being, and I need you to look after her. But this... this is something I must do alone. If I ever need your help in the future, I'll find you. But for now, this is my battle to face."
Chrome nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and understanding. "I… respect your decision, Kohaku." he smiled weakly at her, "You don't have to worry about Ruri, I'll make sure that she's safe."
A faint, grateful smile tugged at Kohaku's lips as she appreciated Chrome's unwavering support. "Thank you, Chrome. You've always been there for us."
As Kohaku turned to leave, Chrome gently touched her arm. "And Kohaku, be careful. I know how dangerous Mozu can be. If you ever get the chance to run away, take it. You know my number. I'll be there if you need me."
With a nod, Kohaku acknowledged his words, and the weight of their unspoken understanding lingered in the air as she resumed her way out of the hospital.
Kohaku stepped out of the hospital into the chilly air of day, her thoughts heavy and tumultuous. The cloudy day and the atmosphere that showed it would be raining any moment now painted a somber atmosphere. As she stood by the car, her gaze fixed on the reflective surface of the windows, she couldn't escape the weight of her decisions.
The news about her alleged breakup with Senku had spread like wildfire online, and she couldn't help but picture Senku's reaction when he came across those headlines. She bit her lip, fighting back the urge of new tears threatening to shed themselves on her already stained cheeks.
Kohaku replayed her memories with Senku in her mind, remembering the laughter, the shared dreams, and the warmth of his presence. The thought of hurting him pained her deeply, but the shadows of her mother's warnings loomed large, and she knows she can't escape that.
She wondered how Senku would react to the news, what words he would find to make sense of it all. Her heart ached at the prospect of causing him pain, yet a desperate need to shield him from the impending danger pulled at her resolve.
Kohaku took a shaky breath, her reflection mirroring the conflict within. It was about to rain, and it seemed to hold its breath, as if anticipating the consequences of the choices made. In the solitude of the moment, she wished for the strength to face what lay ahead and the courage to navigate the storm that had engulfed her life.
"Nice to see you here, miss Kohaku… on a normal day." Kohaku smiled back and then started walking towards where her father was.
"How is he these days?" she asked as they walked, "He's fine. Mr. Kokuyo is doing better. He's been transferred to our adult ward. I'd say he's improving."
The nurse opened the door for her, and she found her father sitting on the side of the bed, engrossed in a book as quoted by the nurse titled "Science for Dummies." He looked better than before, and she noticed that he had gained a bit of weight. The positive change in his condition since her last visit was unmistakable. He appeared more present, resembling the father she had always wished for. Kohaku wrestled with a surge of emotions threatening to surface but sternly forced herself to maintain composure. The smile on his face made her sigh with relief.
"Kohaku?" he walked towards her, looking happy and carefree, "Nice to see you here, daughter! How are you? I thought you wouldn't visit me anymore!" he chuckled.
She just looked at him, almost in tears. She felt guilty for always assuming the worst, yet her father greeted her with happiness before looking around for her mother.
They engaged in small talk, discussing the book he was reading and the drawings he had been working on during his time in the hospital. Kohaku couldn't help but feel a mixture of joy and sorrow as he proudly showed her his sketches, he learned from someone charitable who visited and teach them. Among them, a series of drawings depicted their family – her father, sister, and even her mother. As she glanced at the images of a seemingly happy family, Kohaku's heart ached. She knew the truth, the toxic dynamic that had marred their family for years. She desperately wanted to share her side of the story, to tell her father how her mother had manipulated him and used his struggles to force her into a marriage with Mozu.
Holding back tears, Kohaku chose to focus on the positive aspects of this moment. "These drawings are amazing, Dad. I can see how much effort you've put into them. It's wonderful to see you engaging in these activities."
Her father beamed with pride, unaware of the storm raging within his daughter. They spent the visit immersed in a semblance of normalcy, discussing the drawings, the book, and sharing a few light-hearted moments. Kohaku knew that these visits were essential for her father's well-being, providing him with a lifeline to the reality beyond the confines of his mental struggles.
"Did something happen, Kohaku? Why do you… look sad?" Kohaku faked a smile as she closed the book her father had been discussing with her for an hour.
"I'm not sad, dad! I'm just happy f-for you..."
"If you're happy, you should be smiling. Why…" he watched her intently. Kohaku couldn't hold back her tears any longer. She bowed her head and restrained herself from crying. She felt her father hug her gently.
"What happened?" she could sense the alarm in his voice.
"I'm okay, dad. I'm just having t-tears of joy." She sniffles, "It's been so long since we had a conversation like this," Kohaku said. She felt him stiffen. She untangled herself from his embrace. Kohaku braced herself for another of his episodes, but instead, she saw his worried face directed at her.
"I'm sorry for what I did, Kohaku," he said.
Kohaku immediately shook her head, "It's fine, dad. What's done is done. It's not your fault that I'm feeling down. Let's not talk about it. I'm sorry for crying. I'm just… happy about your progress, dad."
"Are you sure? Did that man hurt you? What's his name again? Mozu, was it?" Kohaku felt a wave of anxiety; she didn't know how to respond. She just didn't want her father to spiral down because of her!
"No, dad. I'm okay. I'll visit again if I have time. Is there anything you want? I'll tell the staff to deliver it to your room if possible."
He simply looked at her, as if trying to figure out whether she was telling the truth or hiding something. He calmly smiled and nodded, "I'm craving sweets, daughter. Not fruits, though, because there's plenty of those here." She felt him hold her hand and squeeze it, "Kohaku, tell me if you have any problems, okay?" Kohaku shook her head immediately.
"I don't want you getting hurt. Even if your mom likes Mozu, if he hurts you, I won't allow it."
Kohaku smiled happily; somehow, knowing her father cares made her feel better. "Thanks, dad. I'm okay."
"So... you and Mozu?" he raised an eyebrow. For some reason, Kohaku didn't want to answer him. She just didn't know what to say, but he was expecting an answer, so she nodded as a response.
"Did he hurt you?" he asked seriously. She shook her head, "No, dad."
"I don't believe you, and somehow, I can't think of a reason why. You are excellent in your work. I've watched your videos online from some good nurses here who are also your fans. Your voice is very ethereal, daughter. You can't be crying because of failure. This is more personal."
"I'm just really happy that you're doing well, dad." They locked eyes. She nodded and composed herself.
"I will strive to get even better, so that I may have the chance to meet you more, daughter," her father said, gently cupping her cheek. "And hopefully, on your next visit when I'm well—though I just wished I could see your sister, too—right now, I'm hoping that when you decide to come back, you could give me a beautiful smile, Kohaku, not tears."
Kohaku managed a small smile to reassure her father that she appreciated his concern. He gently tucked a stray strand of her hair behind her ear and spoke softly, "You're my daughter, and I know how your eyes look when they are sad. I can see it right now. I know I've never been a good father to you. You don't need to hide it from me; I'll know..."
Kohaku felt relieved seeing her father's progress and noticed that her mother's last visit coincided with the last time Mozu was there. She had hoped her mother wouldn't visit him anymore. If her mother genuinely cared for his well-being, without manipulative intentions, maybe she could be a positive influence.
Seeing her father doing better and her sister still alive should be the nail in the coffin. That should be the reason why she should stop arguing with her mother and agree to Mozu's wishes. She didn't want them doing anything bad to her loved ones, nor did she want them to complicate things. Submitting to their wishes would prevent that from happening.
However, that wasn't the case. Kohaku was still scared to look at her phone and convince herself to call Senku—to ask him to meet her and discuss the breakup. She was hesitant, even though she knew it was the right thing to do for her sister.
The next day, she decided to go to the studio and resume her recordings. Kohaku avoided opening her phone, knowing that everyone must be alarmed about the rumors. If she didn't show up, it would only make it harder for her to explain. Kohaku, dressed in a casual summer chic dress with oversized sunglasses indoors, entered the lobby followed by Minami, Gen, and Amaryllis, who escorted her to prevent reporters from approaching her. She walked into her designated office, with her friends in tow.
"I'm getting confused with all the gossip! I was calling you the whole weekend, Kohaku! You weren't answering! What happened?" Minami asked as soon as they entered. Kohaku casually removed her sunglasses, glancing at the piles of tabloids, along with some invitations and contracts waiting for her signature before meeting Minami's eyes. Gen and Amaryllis sat on the couch, eagerly awaiting her response.
"I was somewhere this weekend, so I couldn't be contacted. Sorry—" Kohaku began, recalling the lies she rehearsed to explain her absence,"—but it seems like the tabloids had a field day in my absence," Kohaku continued, gesturing toward the stacks of gossip magazines. "I needed a break, some time away from the noise."
"We visited your penthouse to check on you! You weren't there too! They're speculating about your relationship with Mozu, claiming it's some dramatic love triangle, along with some wild theories about secret meetings and hidden motives."
Kohaku sighed, recalling the lies she had crafted for her friends the day before. That's where she had invested her time instead of reading the gossip about herself.
"Sorry, I had to go somewhere—" Minami and Gen looked at her seriously. Minami tilted her head. "Where?"
"I am somewhere…to talk with an old... friend," Kohaku knew her friends wouldn't expect her to go to her mother for anything. They would catch on soon if that happened.
"Wait. What? Are you serious? Let me tell you something you don't know, okay? Someone spotted you in a restaurant with Mozu! And you looked like a couple! The day after the gala event, where you were with Senku!"
Kohaku gritted her teeth and sighed. It should be easy to tell her friends that she ended things with Senku, but she knows she can't. The threats hanging over her head make it complicated.
"People are now accusing Senku of cheating on you! They say you're heartbroken, that's why you're with Mozu!" Minami shook her head, looking distressed. "I'm getting confused, Kohaku!"
Rolling her eyes, Kohaku shook her head again. "This can't be happening, right? Senku won't do such a thing!" Amaryllis insisted, urging Kohaku to speak up. "Kohaku, what happened?"
"I mean, I don't think you would ever turn to Mozu for advice or comfort! You were happy together with Senku at the gathering when Tsukasa and I found you," Minami nodded, "But what I don't buy is you turning to Mozu! Where are the rumors from? Is it from Mozu? And are you two really together because he told you something?"
Kohaku realized it felt so wrong to lie to her friends, but she had committed to this. She'd already made a decision.
"I... I realized my mother was right. And truth is Senku and I were just using each other," Minami, Gen, and Amaryllis waited for her to finish, but upon hearing what she said, they all looked at her in disbelief, "I just used him as a pretend boyfriend to test Mozu. If Mozu had another woman, and to could prove if he's loyal since he started liking me, turns out he didn't have other relationships," Kohaku knew how ridiculous those excuses were.
"Are you for real?" Amaryllis said in disbelief, massaging her face.
"Kohaku..." Gen gently said, looking at her with disbelief, as if he knew Kohaku was just lying.
"Are you kidding us, Kohaku?" Minami's eyes narrowed at her.
"Look, guys, I've said what I said, please respect my decision," Kohaku turned her chair around to stare at the cityscape and to avoid Minami's prying eyes. However, she continued, "You avoided this man for years, Kohaku! You are disgusted by him! We are disgusted by him! And then suddenly—"
"Enough! I won't hear the end—"
Minami laughed sarcastically, dismissing her, even as Kohaku continued speaking with her back to them. She preferred not to openly reveal her emotions at the moment.
"Honestly, what Senku and I have... it's not real. I'm not lying. I just used him to keep Mozu at bay. I'm telling you this because you're all my best friends. We just agreed to do this. I wanted him to pretend to be my boyfriend so I could get away from Mozu. He agreed because he wanted me and the sex!"
She saw Minami circle her desk and stand in front of her with irritation evident in her eyes. Before Minami could speak again, Kohaku beat her to it, "Even if you ask him, he'd tell you the truth! If you doubt me, ask him! That's the truth. We had an agreement. This relationship is not real! I now realize Mozu is—"
"We were there when you talked to Dr. Byakuya, Kohaku! He introduced you to his father!" Minami insisted. "Now, will you tell us what's really happening, or are you really playing this way, Kohaku?"
"That doesn't change the fact that our relationship is not real!" Kohaku stood to make her point as she massaged her face. "I... don't love him! The rumors about me being with another man are true! Do you still honestly think I'm playing?"
Minami was speechless. Kohaku could sense that she wanted to counter her, but Kohaku stood her ground to make her lies believable, "We haven't talked yet, Minami. But when we do, I'll tell him to stop this. His attraction to me won't last. I don't love him that way. It might hurt him, but not for long. He's still a bachelor, and he's had no shortage of girls who like him. Our relationship is fake! We agreed to this arrangement, and once one of us doesn't like the other anymore, I told him we'll end it like a sport and go on separate ways."
"Kohaku, are you serious?" Gen stood beside her and asked.
"Yes, I am. If you're doubting me, you can ask him. I'm serious, Gen."
Kohaku felt quite proud of herself for saying all of that with a straight face. When Minami slumped into a chair in front of her desk and Amaryllis came to comfort her, that's when she felt gutted. Gen looked sympathetic. It seemed like they believed everything she said. What she said had some truth in it, but what she omitted was how Mozu and her mother manipulated her.
"Senku called me, Kohaku. He wanted to talk to you, but I couldn't say anything because we also didn't know where you were. And if it's true that you've already separated… then…" Kohaku licked her lips and nodded at him.
"Will you tell us what really happened, Kohaku? When the news broke about Mozu, I felt like your mother finally made that one move—to threaten you with your sister. To manipulate you like this," Gen speculated. He had his hand on his chin as if he was pondering something.
"Honestly, if they did… I wouldn't be surprised! Because yes, maybe you and Senku were just using each other. Maybe you're right; your relationship was fake. But… you were so disgusted with Mozu back when he proposed to you at Yuzuriha's wedding. Not in a million years would I believe you'd actually make him your boyfriend!" Gen stated matter-of-factly.
One of her friends' phones rang. It was Gen's.
"Senku's calling, Kohaku."
Kohaku straightened up in her seat. He put his phone on her desk, where it continued ringing with Senku's name on the screen. Gen walked backwards, probably to give her some privacy and space, not knowing whether she would answer or not. The phone kept buzzing on her desk as she reached for it, and though a little hesitant, she answered the call.
"Senku..."
"Hi. Do you have time? Let's meet later. After work," Senku said with a grim tone.
Kohaku scrambled, stood up, and turned her back to look out of her windows overlooking the cityscape of Tokyo. She was aware of her friends' curious glances at her back, but she didn't care. Licking her lips, she almost felt like throwing up just hearing Senku's voice. She didn't know if she was ready to talk, but she knew she had to break up with him soon rather than later.
"I'm b-busy right now, Senku," she stammered, trying to delay the inevitable. "I'll call—"
"What's your appointment later? I can wait after that, even if I have to pick you up. I have time..."
She took a deep breath and glanced at Gen and Minami with Amaryllis, who seemed to be waiting for her response, scrutinizing her appearance.
"I-I have a meeting. Can we... I'll message you and set a day within the week for us to talk. I really can't later. I'll be too tired after the recordings and meetings..."
Minami's eyes narrowed at her. They both knew she was just lying to prolong the inevitable. They had canceled her meetings for the day just to discuss the circulating issues about her online. Minami sighed and remained silent, listening intently.
"Alright," Senku's voice sounded strained. "Your phone's out. Is there a problem?"
Kohaku closed her eyes tightly. "None..."
She fidgeted with her fingers anxiously, her heart weighing heavily as she realized she needed to confront this. This was her choice, and she had promised herself to Mozu, so she had to stand by it.
"I just don't feel like replying... to you," she finally admitted.
"Why?" he asked gently.
Kohaku bit her lip, deciding it was better to hurt him now than to drop everything at once. "I find you... boring... that's all."
Without waiting for his reply, she ended the call. Her friends look at her incredulously.