Chapter 16: Lowly Chicken

DISCLAIMER: I don't own Skip Beat, for if I did, Kanae would have clinched the Chidori role.

Kanae leaned against the back wall with her arms folded watching the scene unfold before her. For today's filming, the set used was a Minka, a traditional Japanese house. Although she loathed the character Chidori, she was disappointed that she wouldn't be part of the production. She mused at the LoveMe mission she was assigned by the President: Something Messy. It would have been exciting to work with her friend again. The two of them acting side by side testing each other's new skills and challenging one another to improve.

Momiji knelt on the wooden floor as she slid the door open. Inside she found Shizuma-sama scribbling on a piece of parchment at his writing desk. "Come in Momiji," he beckoned without looking up.

Kanae caught sight of Sho sitting off to the side. His eyes were locked on Kyoko. What she saw on his face was a mixture of awe and confusion?

She grimaced. This jerk's feelings are so obvious. There was no way she would let him get close to Kyoko again. From what Kyoko told her, Kanae concluded that he was an emotionally abusive asshole. That kind of guy was toxic. She wondered what Ren was doing that he couldn't send this guy packing. Kanae decided to take matters into her own hands. She approached the singer.

Sho turned to Kanae as if he had a sixth sense for sensing a member of the opposite sex approaching. His smirk faded and was replaced by a scowl. He bared his teeth at her. Kanae pursed her lips to keep from smiling at his hostile reaction. He must still be angry for what she did to him earlier. She could see the question, what the fuck does she want now? written all over his face.

Putting on a demure smile, Kanae asked, "Fuwa-san, can we please talk in private? I want to apologize properly for my earlier behavior." Kanae's cutesy voice almost made her vomit.

Heh! He smirked. I knew she wanted me. Probably put on some act for Kyoko.

Kanae wanted to slap the smug smile off his face. He probably thought he was God's gift to womankind. She bit back a retort and walked towards the door throwing a seductive smile over the shoulder.

...

Intrigued, he followed her out into the hall. They walked until they found an empty conference room. He arrogantly took a seat at the table, slouching and adjusted the crotch of his snug leather pants.

Kanae closed the door and locked it. Sho gulped. Was she for real? Were they going to do this right here? He was suddenly nervous. Shen didn't seem the type to be satisfied with sucking him off. He never went all the way before. He would die before he admitted that to anyone. He was no stranger to oral sex especially if he was on the receiving end. He couldn't stick his dick in just any woman. He watched his friends in middle school get strapped down into a relationship once that happened.

His trick was misdirection. Give just enough of himself that left them satisfied but not demanding. He had all the right moves and knew all the right words to keep the ladies guessing at his sexual experience. Heck, even Shoko was fooled. Even if she never did give in to his antics, he enjoyed having a hot manager. It inflated his ego. Many assumed they were screwing. It wasn't from lack of trying on his part. Every time he crawled into her bed or attempted to get her in the shower with him, she would lead him on. He was left hanging once she had him doing her bidding.

Sho shifted uncomfortably as Kanae's flirty smile was replaced by a menacing glare. She peered down her nose at Sho. "Look, Fuwa-san. I'm not here for whatever perverted thing you're thinking. I have one priority and that is my friend Kyoko. I'm giving you fair warning to back off. Let her live her life. I can tell just by watching you today that you're in love with her."

Sho stuttered in denial, " I- I am not in love with that plain talent-less boring woman!"

...

Kanae pinched the bridge of her nose in frustration and rubbed. She could feel a headache coming on. She had no clue why she was interfering. This was becoming troublesome.

She leaned down centimeters from his face. His eyes opened wide with shock and just as a smug crept upon his lips Kanae pulled at his cheeks pinching his face.

"Ow! What the fuck?" He grimaced, pulling out of her grasp. He rubbed at his face to relieve the sting but said no more.

Satisfied, Kanae stood back up and folded her arms over her chest.

"Perhaps when you knew her that was the case but I can see it now. You like the independent, charismatic woman she has become. Her confidence has amplified her beauty and no thanks to you she has people that love and care for her now. She would never thrive with you. You are such a narcissistic ass that you never saw the light shining beside you all these years. You had your chance Fuwa-san and you blew it. I'm warning you to stay away from her or else."

Sho's face flushed red with anger. He seemed to not care for her attitude. He also just couldn't keep his mouth shut.

"Or else what? Who do you think you are threatening me?"

"I'm the least of your worries if you continue to persist," Kanae warned before leaving the that would be enough to make him stay away. Otherwise, she may have to rely on Ren to do something about him if need be.

...

Sho remained sitting in stunned silence. She was right. The Kyoko he knew followed him around like a lovesick puppy. He didn't care for that version of her. It was the ambitious and talented girl here that stirred his heart. This one could help boost his...no that wasn't right, he thought. He shouldn't be thinking about what she could do for him. She used to do everything he wanted no questions asked. He didn't want her to become that girl again. Would she revert to her old self if they somehow miraculously began dating? How long would it take before she annoyed him again?

There was a gnawing thought at the back of his mind. He didn't want to dim her new light. She had friends and no room for him. He recalled how all the kids had alienated her back in school because of him. He sighed. Should he just accept defeat?

No! I'm Fuwa fucking Sho! I don't give up on what I want!

Sho's phone buzzed. He made his way back to the set just in time to watch a delivery man deposit a bouquet of wildflowers into Kyoko's hands.

Kyoko's face lit up with joy. He scrunched his face up in confusion. He recalled the happy expressions she showed him in the past. They were few and most were a direct result of his happiness.

"Mo! Did he send you those?" He heard her annoying friend ask.

"No, Moko-San this is from my childhood friend, Corn," Kyoko said holding the card to show her friend.

Sho's ears perked up as Kyoko quietly relayed the story that she told Yashiro and Koga. He was a singer so his ears were sensitive to sound. He heard everything she said. Since when? If there was such a person he would have known about it. She told him everything!

"Sho! Come over here now!" Shoko hissed and waved him over. Sho gritted his teeth and stalked over to Shoko and the music director.

...

Kanae snickered as she watched Sho stomp away. He had heard every word. She looked at her friend brimming with happiness. Kanae was more perceptive than any man. She knew this friend had to be Ren. She tried to stifle her laugh but snorted. She covered the embarrassing sound by clearing her throat. It was amusing that Kyoko gave that giant man a pet name and of a vegetable no less.

Kanae left Kyoko to attend her agenda. She was glad she accompanied her friend. Hopefully, her talk with Sho would make him think twice about bothering her friend again.

Kyoko sat in her dressing room giggling like a love-struck teenager. She was once again inhaling the scent of the flowers and thinking of its sender when a knock came at her door.

"Come in," she called out placing the bouquet down and schooling her face.

"Hello, Kyoko-chan," Yashiro greeted when he opened the door. He stepped in with Ren at his heels. She wasn't expecting to see him so soon.

Heat rose to her cheeks when her eyes met his. She wondered if her eyes reflected his. Delight and excitement. Her heart rate increased. She dropped into a flustered bow. I'll never get used to him looking at me like that especially after last night. She bit her bottom lip at the memory before straightening up.

Yashiro excused himself to get Kyoko's bento and some drinks leaving them alone.

Ren placed the bag of food he carried on the little table. Within a blink of an eye, he had one arm wrapped around her waist and the other grasping her nape. She didn't hesitate and encircled her arms around his neck. They kissed each other longingly.

By the time Yashiro made it back to the room Ren sat at the table removing their food from the bag while Kyoko adjusted her hair in the mirror. Ren gave a conspiratorial wink at her reflection making her blush. They weren't trying to hide their relationship from Yashiro but she would be mortified if anyone caught them making out especially their overly supportive manager.

"Ren, is it okay for you to be here?" She asked. Yashiro barely suppressed his squeal of delight at the casual use of his name. She tried not to laugh at their manager. She was sure he could die happy right now.

"Yashiro-san made it possible so we can have lunch together," he said taking a bite out of his food without her threats. She looked impressed and took her seat to eat.

Ren wished he could stay and keep watch over her. He didn't see Cedric when he arrived but he spotted another nuisance.

Keeping his head bent over as if focused on his meal, he let his eyes roam over her body starting at her feet. Her kunoichi costume was way too snug and way too short in his honest opinion. Was that seriously authentic to the period? Did ninjas dress like that back then? Shouldn't she be covered from head to toe in black including her face? He didn't like her long gorgeous legs exposed for all to see. He swallowed his petty jealousy with a big bite of food. It was something he needed to work on. He couldn't afford it in their profession and she deserved better.

"I saw Fuwa out there. Has he bothered you?" Ren asked lifting his concerned eyes to hers. He kept his voice relatively calm which was a feat in itself considering the inner turmoil he was feeling.

She bit her lip and avoided his eyes. "Ruto and Moko were by my side. Nothing happened."

"Oh," he responded, his gentleman smile graced his lips. She was hiding something. Kyoko squirmed under his scrutiny. Her little grudges circled feeding off his aura. Tell him, mistress!

Yashiro put down his chopsticks and joined in the silent battle against Kyoko. Normally, he would scold Ren for acting in such a manner but Kyoko was being suspicious. She needed to voice her concerns with him as her manager.

She finally blew out an exasperated breath and turned to face them. "Morizumi Kimiko was here. On the set."

The room's temperature became chilly as Kuon's anger gave rise. The number of Kyoko's grudges increased. This was why she wanted to avoid telling him. She didn't want to upset him with her problems. She understood now that not telling him would only hurt him more.

Yashiro gasped. "Why was she here?" She was violating their agreement.

"She pulled me off to the side and explained that she was here to see Bennett-san and let her uncle know she would be retiring from acting. It was under the pretense to develop her skills and continue her education. She put on a really good show for everyone stating how I had thoroughly defeated her and shattered her confidence. Everyone sympathized with her even myself. I felt like the villain when she was done with her speech. She's formidable." Kyoko bristled from the chills that ran up her spine. "She left soon after."

Ren and Yashiro stared at her a few more moments to discern if she was hiding anything else. "I will tell you if anything seems out of the ordinary." Kyoko supplied squirming in her seat.

The men nodded and resumed eating.

Kyoko went back to eating as well but became lost in thought as she recalled the scene when she first walked into the studio.

Kyoko swallowed thickly and with determination approached the group in front of the set. She dropped into a formal bow to the director and producer then turned to Cedric and Kimiko.

"Good morning Bennett-san, Morizumi-san." She focused on Cedric. "I look forward to working with you. Please take care of me." Kyoko stood up and caught the scowl on Kimiko's face. Kimiko whispered to Cedric in English. He returned her greeting in English.

"How do you two know each other already?" Kimiko asked placing her hand on Cedric's arm.

Cedric naturally stepped out of her grasp and retold the story of meeting for a brief moment in the club last night. "I had the privilege of hearing Kyoko-san sing. She has a very beautiful voice and her English is impeccable."

Kimiko's eye flashed with anger before she plastered a demure smile on her face. Kyoko hid her discomfort at his compliment. She thanked him and excused herself with the excuse of getting prepped. She didn't know what to make of Cedric. If he was someone that hurt Corn in America she would never forgive him. She made a note to be nothing but professional and polite until he showed his true colors.

She took another bite of her food and glanced up at Ren. She couldn't discuss things with him while Yashiro was in the room.

They continued their meal in silence as each one contemplated their thoughts. Yashiro tried to make small talk but gave up and quietly ate his food.

...

Kuon thought about his phone call with his father this morning as he ate. After exchanging the usual pleasantries, Kuu cut to the chase.

"Tell me what's bothering you son?"

"I'm sorry. It seems I only call you when I need something."

"Nonsense, this is my right as your father. I'm glad you can turn to me for advice. You can call me for anything even to discuss the weather. You have to do me a favor, you have to call back soon. When your mother finds out about this, she'll leave me."

Kuon chuckled. "Thanks, Dad, I promise to call mom." He went silent for a few moments.

"So…did you want to talk about it?"

"Yeah, sorry for wasting your time but… do you have any information regarding Cedric Bennett?"

"Hmm, why does he concern you?" Kuu asked worriedly. He disliked that kid ever since he was a child. He knew he tormented Kuon but since Kuon never came to him he figured his son could handle whatever the older boy dished out.

"He's here in Tokyo. He's in Kyoko's new drama. I need to know if he's here for me or if he will cause her drama any problems."

Kuu cursed at this knowledge. "There was a scandal involving him and a supermodel. There aren't any details so it's all hush-hush but possible sexual harassment. Women can be just as vicious as men in this business, unfortunately. His dad must have sent him to Japan until the heat died down over here. I'll ask around to see if I can get more details. Meanwhile, you need to keep him away from Kyoko. A girl like her would catch his eye."

Kuon paled at his dad's warning. "I promise. I will protect her. I'll never let anyone hurt her again."

Changing the subject, Kuu asked, "How are things going with you guys? Boss sent me some good pictures from last night. I didn't know she was a singer. I can't wait to brag to everyone. I'm one lucky man to have such talented kids."

Kuon smiled. His Dad had not changed. Still the ever doting idiot. He wasn't about to share with his Dad how he knew she could sing. His father didn't need to know about their play as the Heel siblings just yet. He might skin his real son alive if he knew Lory had them shacking up in a hotel room together. He didn't want the lecture. He told his Dad that things were progressing well with them.

"I want to plan a first date but I've never really been on one. I'm not sure where to start."

Kuu wanted to cry. "How could I have such a handsome son that was so clueless about love? Well just don't do something over the top. I'm sure she would like a date like any normal teenage girl. There will be plenty of time for fancy dinners. Has there been any trouble with the press?"

"It's all speculation but positive."

Kuu said, "It's probably the calm before the storm. It will only take one of them to print something negative and it will snowball from there. They are usually more ruthless on the woman as opposed to the man."

Kuon understood he was ready to defend her if needed.

"She will be accused of all ill manners especially with sleeping her way to the top to gain personal favor," Kuu continued.

Kuon groaned. He forgot about that aspect of the press. He hoped it wouldn't come to that. She had worked too hard to have it all thrown back in her face.

...

Kyoko held her chopsticks to his mouth, patiently, as he blinked his way back to reality. She forgot to be bashful about sharing chopsticks as she scolded him to eat more. She looked at him with concern. He spaced out for several minutes. What was he thinking about? Cedric Bennett, perhaps? From what she observed today, Cedric was a hard worker and generally cared about doing his best. When he emerged from wardrobe and makeup, he no longer looked like an American. He was tall. Just a few centimeters shy of Kuon but with the makeup he could pass as Japanese. The makeup team did a phenomenal job.

A staff member knocked on her dressing room door marking the end of her lunch break. She had five minutes before she was to report back to the set. Kyoko cleaned up their meals and readied herself to head outside. Ren held open the door for her and Yashiro.

As they walked, Kyoko gave details of her fight scene in the Minka today.

"Assassins will attack Shizuma-sama with Bennett-san's character, Yamada-san, leading the attack. This, unfortunately, would be the final scene in this Minka. The others here are only staged in the exterior. It's sad to see it get destroyed; the craftsmanship is amazing. We have been rehearsing the scene for over an hour before lunch. I'm nervous... Director Morizumi wants to film it in one go."

"That's usually the case with these types of scenes if it requires set destruction. To keep costs and schedules down, the director would want a successful first take," Ren explained. "It's okay to be nervous but I know you have the choreography memorized. I'm confident you'll do well."

Kyoko blushed. He had so much faith in her abilities. She had to do her best not to let her Senpai and coworkers down. The crew was putting final touches on the equipment. She could see several mobile and static cameras staged around the exterior. She was sure there was twice as much inside. She hoped it would be enough for what the director envisioned.

…

Sho looked up from the sheets he was reviewing when Ren and Kyoko walked toward the set. He gritted his teeth and fisted his hands. He ignored the tremor that ran down his spine as his glare locked with the actor's chilling stare. The guy was scary. Kyoko's friend's earlier threat floated through his mind. Was he the or else?

"Sho, you need to concentrate on work," Shoko warned. Sho brushed her off. His eyes trailed after Kyoko. He continued to watch as they headed to the set. Why is he even here? He has no business with this project. Did he have to walk so close to her? Did their hands just touch? He watched Ren smile down at her making Kyoko blush. What is that baka doing? She's being swindled by a conman! He took a step in their direction but Shoko grabbed his wrist. His manager shook her head sternly.

"Leave them," She hissed trying to be discreet. The sound director looked up from the laptop they were using to review footage. "Is there something wrong?" he inquired, confused by the shift in Sho's attitude.

"Everything is fine. I just remembered something I need to deal with," Sho replied smoothly.

He should add untrustworthy to his list of adjectives he had to describe her. She was breaking her promise. Even a blind man could tell something was going on with them.

Sho folded his arms across his chest to keep himself grounded. He watched Ren lean down and whisper to Kyoko. His lips were hairsbreadth away from making contact with her ear. When he was done he straightened up and strolled away. Kyoko touched her ear. Even from this distance, Sho could see the blush creeping across her face.

Ren and his manager walked toward him. Sho openly glowered at the man as he neared his position.

The actor flashed him a triumphant smile as he approached. "Fuwa-san," Ren said curtly as they passed each other. Fuwa gritted his teeth as Shoko whispered another warning. He wanted to punch that smile off of the bastard's face.

His gaze returned to Kyoko. Have I lost her completely? He was stunned by the thought. He caught her stare as she followed Ren out with her eyes. Still holding her ear, her unseeing eyes slid past Sho like he was nothing. He wanted to shake her out of her stupid love trance. What did that bastard say to leave her in such a daze? Don't tell me he said…that! He probably did judging by that stupid look on her face.

Later that evening, Kyoko finished the taping of Yappa Kimagure Rock's next episode. She squeaked down the hall in her Boh costume with the Ishibashi brothers.

"Great work, Boh!" Shinichi complemented Kyoko as they walked.

"I wonder how long you can continue as Boh, though," Yuusei said mournfully. "Kyoko-chan is becoming so popular. Right leader?"

"Ah, yes! It was a surprise walking into the studio today," Hikaru added shyly.

When Kyoko stepped into TBM earlier, The Sacred Lotus in the Mire promotional posters were strewn about throughout the building. The producers went overboard with the promo shots. The group posters featured Momiji, Shizuma and Chidori. There were even some couple photos of Shizuma with either Momiji or Chidori. Kyoko was surprised to see her solo image hanging with the leading cast. The photographer captured the essence of Momiji as she swirled under the moon's illumination wielding her short swords.

"Oh hey, look. It's Tsuruga-san and Yashiro-san. I wonder if Tsuruga-san is shooting a drama here," Shinichi said curiously.

Boh freaked. Why are they here? Yashiro usually waited in the lobby for her. If she was alone she could play it off but the Ishibashi brothers we sure to give her away. She tried to escape but bumped into Yuusei in the process knocking him over. She apologized and bowed profusely as best she could in a chicken suit.

"Whoa, what's going on Boh," Shinichi asked amused. The chicken squawked around the hallway. She looked like a chicken with its head cut off as she panicked to find a place to hide.

She looked back and noticed they were already upon them. The Ishibashi brothers greeted Ren and Yashiro.

"What brings you guys by here?" Hikaru asked.

"Ah, we came to see…" Ren began looking around the brothers for Boh. He jumped back in surprise when the brothers parted revealing the chicken.

Boh was on the floor in a perfect dogeza. "Fo- fo- forrrrggggiiiive me! Tsuruga-Saaaammmmaaaa!" the chicken screeched.

Ren exchanged looks with Yashiro. That voice! That Posture! He knew it well. There was only one person he associated these actions with. Ren kneeled in front of the chicken and yanked off the head. Kyoko remained glued to the floor trembling in fear awaiting her execution by the Demon Lord.

Ren fell over bursting with laughter. He held his sides as tears streamed down his face.

The Ishibashi brothers were surprised. They had never seen Ren laugh or act like that before. He always had an unobtainable cool guy image that seemed out of their reach. Right now he just looked… well normal. They watched with awe as Japan's number one most desirable man was bent over on the floor with one hand clutching his stomach and the other hand pounding a fist into the floor. He laughed hysterically.

Kyoko sat up pouting and narrowed her eyes. She cleared her throat. He kept laughing. She folded her wings over her chicken body with a loud humph.

"Ren, you don't have to laugh that hard. I'm sorry, I'm just a lowly chicken to you."

To his credit, Ren tried to stop his laughter but it just kept starting all over again every time he looked at her. Her pouting face was just too adorable.

Kyoko folded her arms tighter and jutted out her lower lip. "I'm never speaking to you again you idiot!" She tried to stand up and leave but he pulled her into his arms, chicken body and all. His body still trembled with mirth.

He stroked her hair trying to soothe her. When he was finally composed he pressed his forehead against hers. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to laugh. The fact that you're a chicken is not what I find funny. I'm just so relieved that you're Boh. It makes sense now. I'm glad it was you."

Kyoko nodded unable to trust that the lump in her throat wouldn't come out if she tried to speak. She was glad and a little sad the secret was out. Ren used to share certain aspects of his life with Boh. Now that the cat was out of the bag she felt a little lonely.

Yashiro's inner fangirl threatened to burst out of him. He kept his eyes peeled for any intruders. He was just as surprised as Ren to find out that this was her LoveMe job. Poor Ren must be shocked. He understood why she wanted to keep the secret. Ren had befriended the chicken. Yashiro now knew why Ren was so drawn to the chicken.

The Ishibashi brothers were shocked by the close interaction between Ren and Kyoko. The younger brothers patted Hikaru on the back at his lost love.

Ren helped Kyoko up to her feet. He bowed to the brothers. "Thank you for always taking care of Kyoko. Please continue to do so."

Hikaru-san had no choice but to admit defeat as he watched Kyoko cast a radiant smile at Ren. She looked happy. He boldly stepped up to Ren. "If you make her cry, I'll steal her away."

Ren smiled genuinely, stunning Hikaru. "Of course," Ren replied. "Kyoko is lucky to have such protective Onii-sans looking out for her. Now if you'll excuse us," he said turning to Kyoko. "Are you ready to go home?"

Kyoko's face went red at his phrasing and tried to clear it up. "Ren, please don't throw words around like that carelessly. People will misunderstand," Kyoko scolded.

Ren replied, "It wouldn't be a misunderstanding if you just moved in with me."

The gears in Kyoko's brain malfunctioned. Her earlier blush turned a deep crimson and traveled down her neck.

Ren chuckled and looked at Yashiro, "too soon?"

Yashiro replied sarcastically, "You think?"

Ren led a catatonic Kyoko by the hand to get her changed out of her costume.

The younger Ishibashi brothers fanned their leader since he nearly fainted from the confrontation.

Ren could still hear the younger brothers telling Hikaru that he was so cool for standing up to such an intimidating guy.

AN: Another key point checked off my list. I couldn't let Kyoko get away without divulging her secret. Poor Hikaru never stood a chance. I'm also trying to wrap up Sho's part in this story. He keeps eluding me.

Thank you, everyone, for continuing to read. Big thanks to those that left a review. I appreciate all your feedback positive or negative.

Until next time, ja ne! ^_^