Chapter 6: Two Alphas!
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skip Beat, for if I did, Ren would have a perfectly good explanation for that ring!
As soon as they entered the meeting room, Ren instinctively homed in on two actors ogling his girl. When the two finally noticed her male companion hovering over her, they froze. The deadly glare Tsuruga Ren shot in their direction was enough for them to see their short life flash before their eyes. Frightened by the tall actor, they scuttled about to face the other direction. Both men thought, another cute one lost to Japan's hottest man. They never stood a chance against a man like him.
Kyoko immediately recognized the change in Ren's demeanor. Her grudges went on high alert.
"Is something wrong Tsu - Tsuruga-san?" Kyoko asked nervously glancing up at him.
Ren smiled at her warmly making her grudges woozy. "Everything is fine, Mogami-san," he assured her.
Since her talk with Kanae, she decided whenever she was confused by his behavior she would just ask him. She wanted to press him for more but his damn smile had turned her brain to mush. She had no choice but to look away before her heart stopped.
Koga watched, fascinated by their exchange and slowed down his pace to prolong his observations on the couple. He was intrigued by the possessiveness Japan's most desirable man displayed towards this young woman. Hah! He chuckled inwardly when Ren quickly schooled his face as soon as he sensed Kyoko was turning in his direction. Koga found his nemesis' conduct remarkable like he just discovered some rare species. He shifted his attention to the young woman standing next to his rival. He wondered how it was possible that this girl could bring this popular man to his knees.
Koga had only known Kyoko for a couple of days so his earlier assessment of her as an actress was favorable despite the company she kept. Overall, she was pretty and had a decent figure but that didn't sway him. Koga was used to supermodels throwing themselves at him and he was quite sure the same was for Ren. He gathered that she was a skilled actress judging from her portrayal of Momiji at the auditions. He had researched her past roles, Mio and Natsu, and found her performances impressive. He couldn't believe the same docile girl in front of him played those bully roles so perfectly.
What else was there? The curiosity was eating at him as he continued to walk towards them getting stopped by others along the way. He vowed to find out. An idea popped in his mind. He could easily tell that Ren was interested in her as more than a kohai. If Koga could redirect her attention his way, and make her fall for him for real during this production, he would for once, have the upper hand on the actor. Judging from her past performances, Koga had no doubt she would rise to stardom in no time. They could easily become Japan's darling couple.
Ren's radar perked up as he sensed another male encroaching on what he considered his territory. He did a sweep of the room and noticed Koga's curious eyes trained on Kyoko. Ren didn't like the look of wonder he saw in the man's expression. He shifted his position naturally so Kyoko would not suspect anything was off. Since he was a great deal taller and wider than her, her body was completely blocked from the other actor's view.
Koga paused when the looming figure of Ren filled his line of sight. The actor's eyes made contact with Ren's. The look Ren gave him made him tremble but only slightly, they were both alphas after all.
From behind Ren, Kyoko noticed Koga staring at her and started to feel uncomfortable. She knew having Ren tag along was a bad idea. She felt a presence akin to the Demon Lord surface beside her making the hair on the back of her neck prickle. No, that wasn't quite it. The aura Ren was emitting was that of BJ and this time his attention was trained on Koga.
She had no clue what triggered Ren's change in behavior but she needed to act quickly to diffuse the situation. Stupid Kyoko this was a really bad idea. Why does Tsuruga-san have such a strong killing intent directed at Koga? Think Kyoko! He's Tsuruga right now, he can't be seen like this! She stepped in front of Ren and placed her hand gently on his arm. Her soft touch startled him and forced him to look down at her. Her golden eyes implored him to behave. Ren released the tension in his body, calming down. He had inadvertently let Kuon slip out. Kyoko removed her hand quickly when she felt the anger leave his body and mumbled an apology. Ren frowned. He didn't want her to be sorry for touching him so casually.
The anger and malice that Koga felt radiating off of Ren made him shiver. It was at that point Koga realized he really did like to keep his pretty face. The thought that the usually mild-mannered gentleman wouldn't think twice about kicking his ass crossed his mind. He was relieved and intrigued by the easiness of Ren's mood change just by a simple touch from Kyoko. There was seriously something going on with them.
Koga decided then that his life was worth more than that of any woman and decided not to pursue the girl. A new idea began brewing in his mind replacing the previous immature plan he came up with seconds ago. This one would benefit everyone and required no bloodshed. He could clearly see the attraction between the two. He could encourage them to help realize their mutual feelings sooner. If the public realized Ren was off the market, Koga could easily surpass him to the number one spot. Koga smiled to himself at his intelligence, he doubted he needed to do much and decided to bully them instead.
Ren watched Koga approach initially with a general interest in Kyoko; however, at some point in those last few steps, Koga had made a conscious decision to give up on Kyoko completely. Ren was quite proud of himself. Mission accomplished.
Koga spoke first when he finally arrived in front of them, "Hello Kyoko-chan, Tsuruga-kun."
Ren's right eye twitched in annoyance when Koga casually addressed her by her first name. He needed to fix this problem tonight. Why was he the only one still calling her politely? I knew her longer dammit! He thought, sulking inwardly. Kyoko and Ren both bowed and greeted Koga.
"So Tsuruga-kun, what brings you here? Last I heard, you declined to participate in this drama," said Koga.
Ren winced, cursing his manager for his efficiency. Ren upped the wattage of his professional smile then replied, "Yes, I was already committed to other projects at the time. I just couldn't fit this drama into my schedule with everything else I had going on."
Koga fought to keep his aloof expression as his thoughts raged. You picking a fight with me pretty boy?! Are you trying to rub it in my face that I was the second choice once again for this job because you're so busy!
"But I guess there have been some issues with the casting that has delayed the filming. This worked out well since now that Mogami-san will be acting as Momiji it's bound to be successful," Ren continued innocently.
Oh, those are definitely fighting words! So what you're saying is that if it wasn't for Kyoko this project would be a total dud.
Kyoko flushed red from Ren's excessive praise. She prayed to Kami-sama that she didn't embarrass him after all this embellishment.
No, Koga. You gotta keep calm. This man is only overly praising the woman he loves. Look at her cute face from all his flattery. He's trying to score points here. He's not trying to be insulting.
Still blushing, Kyoko spoke up, "Tsuruga-san you're too biased. I'm still very new to the industry and have a lot to learn. I just hope I can portray a Momiji everyone can be proud of. I especially hope to meet Producer Kuresaki's expectations after he took a chance on a mere talent like me. I promise to work hard!"
"Of course!" Ren said proudly patting her head. Several pairs of eyes in the room noticed the action and concluded that they were a couple. Kyoko stepped back and ducked her head in embarrassment. He was treating her like a child again.
"Wow Tsuruga-kun, you sure are nice to your Kohais," Koga said sardonically.
Ren looked at Koga confused by his tone. What is he playing at?
"Just the other day, Kimiko-chan and Kyoko-chan were going head to head for the part of Momiji. As you can see Kyoko was the clear victor," Koga continued gesturing to Kyoko with a nod.
"Speaking of Kimiko-chan. She shared a rather interesting story with us, ne, Kyoko-chan. She was wearing a rather expensive pinky ring," Koga said pausing for dramatic effect. "A ring she claims you gave to her for White Day for good luck when she was having trouble with her work in Purple Down."
Kyoko kept her features neutral even though she was feeling very uncomfortable. The stabbing pains in her heart persisted after the reminder of Ren and Kimiko's relationship. Where is Koga going with this conversation? She hoped he didn't reveal to Ren what had prompted the conversation.
Ren stood there deep in thought, confusion knitting between his brows. I never gave Morizumi-san a ring! Is she still spreading lies about me? That drama was almost two years ago so his memory wasn't so sharp. After a few moments of contemplation, it dawned on him. His character in the drama gave his love interest, a promise ring as a white day gift. Did Morizumi-san try to start trouble with Kyoko the same way she caused tension on the set of Purple Down? He disliked that girl immensely and instructed Yashiro to refuse all jobs related to her in the future. She was pure malice and unprofessional in an unobscured way. Tsuruga Ren had to work hard to keep up his facade during that filming.
He glanced over at Kyoko. Her head was tilted down looking at the floor so he couldn't read her expression but she was wringing her hands nervously. He thought about the flower ring incident yesterday. No wonder she responded so weird after I fixed her ring. I even said for good luck! She probably thinks I use that line on every girl. He looked at her incredulously, dare he hope that she was affected by Kimiko's actions. Ren was elated by the thought. He needed to fix this misunderstanding.
"Morizumi-san must have been confused, my character in Purple Down gave a ring for White Day. I, myself, never did such a thing," he said turning to Kyoko. He wanted her to understand that what Kimiko said was not true.
Kyoko's head shot up shocked by this revelation. She searched his warm brown eyes for the truth. Her heart hammered as she understood the sincerity in his eyes. He's telling the truth. She nodded in understanding making him smile with relief.
Morizumi-san really did use that ring to mess with my concentration. How did Morizumi-san know that I would take the bait? I really am such an idiot. I have to do better at hiding my feelings otherwise Ren might notice.
Her near-death experience, by the hands of Kimiko, came flooding back to her mind. She really needed to tell Ren about the incident. He was so angry and upset when he was the last to learn about the Beagle issue in Karuizawa.
Koga figured as much, he played dumb at the auditions but he knew through the grapevine how spiteful Kimiko could be when she didn't get her way. Unfortunately, Kyoko just happened to be the one in her way right now. She had probably eavesdropped on their conversation and used that story to get in Kyoko's head.
Kyoko was relatively new to the business and didn't pay much attention to other celebrities unless she worked with them. She had no idea how cutthroat this world could be especially among women. Poor little lamb, Koga thought. It's a good thing she has a great big bad wolf protecting her.
Koga changed the subject and faced Kyoko, "This will be your first time acting out a serious love role. Do you think you've grasped that aspect of Momiji?"
Kyoko hummed and nodded yes. She was confident in her execution of Momiji. They both shared the feeling of unrequited love for the men by their side.
"Are you in love with me already?" Koga asked teasingly. He placed his thumb and index finger under her chin and tilted her head up to meet his gaze. "Or would you have preferred Tsuruga-kun was in my place?"
Kyoko couldn't control the blush that flared on her cheeks. She stepped back out of his grasp and told him he was a bully. Koga laughed wholeheartedly by her reaction. She glared daggers at him. Her grudges swirled around her ready to go on the offense should he try to touch her again. She would kill him if he gave her feelings away to Ren.
Ren was agitated by Koga's behavior. He used the full strength of his gentleman smile to show his irritation towards the guy. How dare he touch her! His heart raged at the fact that Kyoko, no Momiji, he corrected himself, had to be in love with him.
Before Ren could say anything, Producer Kuresaki and Director Morizumi entered the room, ending all further conversation. Ren waited his turn before approaching Producer Kuresaki. He welcomed Ren and told him he appreciated his interest in the drama. Ren asked permission to stay and watch while he waited for his car to arrive. Kuresaki gave the okay so Ren took his place in the back next to Yashiro. Kyoko took her seat upfront with the rest of the cast. Kuresaki jumped right in and told them they would pick up where they left off on scene 21, The Confession.
Ren watched as Kyoko closed her eyes and got into character. It was always amazing watching her transformation. When she opened her eyes again all traces of Kyoko were removed and in the room sat Momiji. Kyoko stood up and moved in front of Koga. She found it easier to stay in character during readings if she could move along with the script.
The Director looked at the pair for confirmation that they were ready then called, "Action!"
Momiji bowed down before Shizuma. Her lithe body coiled with suppressed tension. She couldn't understand why her master was sending her away; all to protect some chit of a girl.
Unable to contain her frustration any longer, Momiji stands up defiantly. "Master please don't ask me to do that. I must stay and protect you! Why must it be her? Why not me? Choose me! I have been the one by your side all this time, not her!"
"I love you! I cannot go knowing that you will be in danger. I would rather die as your shield than see you with her!" exclaimed Momiji, trying to restrain her tears.
Shizuma was surprised by her outburst. This was the first time she had ever questioned his orders. He knew she loved him but he wanted more for her than this life of blood. He loved her like a dear little sister. It wasn't right that such a young and beautiful girl should think so less of her life.
He knew what he would say next would pain her but he needed to be honest. This way both women that he loved will be protected. He knew Momiji would give up her life for him. He didn't want her to carry that burden any longer. He wanted her to be happy.
"I love her Momiji," Shizuma said simply. Momiji fell to her knees, feeling as if she had just been stabbed through the heart. "I love you too, but not the way a man loves a woman, but as a brother loves a sister. The love I have for you will never fade our bond is too strong. You have quietly been by my side selflessly giving and for that, I will forever be grateful. If you claim to love me as you do, then follow my orders. Please like usual, follow my one last selfish request."
Momiji shocked by her master's words, pulled herself together and resumed her kneeling position. She had let her emotions slip. She hardened her heart. When she spoke, her voice was distant and cold, "Yes, my lord." With barely a rustle of clothing, Momiji vanished to do his bidding.
When the scene ended, Director Jouji called, "Cut!" He was quite satisfied with their reading.
Kyoko blinked as she came back to the present and returned to her seat. Several people giggled to break the tension, some clapped, and many wiped tears from their eyes. She was good and they were all excited to work with her.
Ren felt a stab of pain shoot through his heart. He had to remind himself that it was only an act and Kyoko was still his, maybe, somewhat, the point was he wasn't losing hope. He reaffirmed that even if she hated him after tonight, he would spend the rest of his life making it up to her. As long she was nearby, he would not give up begging her forgiveness.
Kyoko's eyes sought Ren at the back of the room. He smiled at her tenderly and gave her a thumbs up. She returned a smile so radiant that anyone in its path was annihilated. His heart skipped a beat along with several other men in the room. He really did love her and only she could complete him.
Producer Kuresaki said, "We're going to pick up with the lake scene with Chidori and Shizuma. We have to skip over some parts since the male antagonist won't be arriving until next week."
With Kyoko looking at him, Ren tapped his watch signaling he had to leave. She smiled and nodded.
"Tonight," he mouthed. She nodded again. With a smile, Ren took his leave before interrupting the next scene.
Kyoko ducked her head down in embarrassment. She was so happy right now that she almost forgot he still had someone else he loved even if it wasn't Kimiko. She tried to calm her heart telling herself everything was still okay.
Koga shook his head at the hopelessness of the girl sitting to his right. If she wanted to keep her feelings for Ren a secret, she was doing a terrible job at it. He watched her face go from happy to sad all of a sudden and wondered what just happened. He noticed their exchange before he left and gathered that they had plans later. Could she be sad because she already missed him? Oh, a maiden's heart is so beautiful, he thought.
As Ren stepped into the car through the door Ruto held open, he spied a young man with short blonde hair wearing sunglasses swaggering towards the front entrance of the building. He paid no mind to the guy since his thoughts were filled with Kyoko at the moment.
AN: Dammit, I did it! I got rid of that pesky pinky ring! I hope Sensei doesn't make it that Ren, nonchalantly, bought the damn thing as a return gift...I'd cry. XD
Thank you for reading everyone! I appreciate all your reviews of the last chapter!
Until next time, ja ne! ^_^