Chapter 31: A Manager's Wish

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skip Beat, for if I did, Kyoko would make Ren blush so much more.

He roused shuddering from the sense of cold loneliness. He reached out seeking her warmth only to find that side of the bed empty. He bolted upright from the bed searching the room. The sound of his pounding heart reverberated in his ears. She was gone! A clattering from outside directed his attention to the door making the sound of his heart dissipate. He smiled. She was outside and she was singing an English song. He loved her voice. This must be a regular thing for her. He only ever heard her in the morning while Setsu took a shower. She probably thought he was sleeping. He could get used to waking up to his little songbird every day.

"It doesn't matter if I'm not enough, For the future or the things to come, 'Cause I'm young and in love, I'm young and in love…"

"Ahhh!" She screeched as strong arms wrapped around her from behind.

"Good morning beautiful," he purred nuzzling the back of her neck. Kyoko shut off the stove and removed the frying pan of sausages from the burner. She twisted in his arms and slid her palms up his bare chest then encircled her arms around his neck. He wore his pajama pants while she wore his T-shirt.

"Good morning," she greeted with a smile. "I'm sorry I fell asleep first last night." She had every intention of letting him have the little red piece of lace. The day's events had taken its toll on her.

He decided to bully her a little. "Are you perhaps referring to the fact that you tried to seduce me last night? I had half a mind to wake you up and make you pay in full for the trouble." He pulled her closer, grinding his hips against her.

"I'm very sorry to have troubled you, Corn," Kyoko said meekly, ignoring his obvious erection. She rose on her tiptoes and laid soft kisses on him wherever she could reach. She only got as far as his collar bone since he was just too damn tall. A gravelly sound escaped from his throat when he grabbed her by the ass and sat her on the counter. She was almost at eye level with him since his countertops were higher than the Japanese standard.

She giggled shyly when he pointed to his right cheek. With eyes wide open she brushed her lips against the spot. He pointed to another spot and so she kissed him there too. They played that game for several minutes until his finger landed directly on the lips. She happily obliged. It was a sweet and innocent kiss until she became demanding. She licked and tugged at his bottom lip with her teeth until he parted his mouth. She dug her fingers into his scalp while her tongue took its time exploring the interior of his mouth. He let her take control of the kiss but pulled her hips against him. He trembled at the sound of her contented sigh.

Unable to contain himself, he broke away and yanked her shirt off. His greedy hands eagerly cupped a breast. She arched into him as his thumbs circled the tips to hardened peaks. Her face heated when she felt moisture pooling at the junction of her thighs. For a fleeting moment, she thought of how unsanitary they were being in the kitchen. His mouth closed hungrily over her breast and blasted all coherent thoughts from her mind. His every touch set her body on fire.

She leaned back onto her elbows making his mouth follow her body. She used the new position to secure her legs around his hips and lock her ankles together. She gasped at the sensation of rubbing the little bundle of nerves between her legs against him.

He straightened up with a loud groan and lifted her off the counter. He wanted nothing more to bury himself inside her but knew that their foreplay was more than enough to satisfy both of them. He carried her to their room and laid her gently on the bed. Her porcelain skin looked so provocative in the tiny red lace. She looked away bashfully as his eyes roamed over every centimeter of her body, committing it to memory. He smiled adoringly at her shyness even after they touched each other somewhat intimately many times since the ceremony.

She finally looked at him and extended her arms invitingly. He climbed on the bed and fell into her loving embrace rejoining his mouth with hers. As he kissed her, his fingers traversed her smooth toned leg until they reached their intended destination between her thighs. He swallowed her gasp as he caressed her hot silky folds through the soaked lace. He chuckled against her mouth when she bucked her hips against his hand impatiently. Giving in to her demands, he pulled the garment aside and slid his fingers against her bare flesh. She was so wet.

Her mewlings made him confident that he could take things a little further. He teased the entrance of her womanhood before slipping a finger inside. He groaned at the way her body swallowed it up and squeezed. It nearly broke him as he imagined that it was his dick encased within her but his blissful musings were short-lived. She hissed and broke away from his mouth tensing her body. He stayed his hand frightened by her reaction. Did I just fuck up?

"I'm sorry, baby. Does it hurt?" He looked at her with worry and tried to pull his hand away but she stopped him before he could do so. She left him baffled.

Kyoko gazed into his green eyes. Behind the uncertainty, she saw his love for her shining in them. She smiled reassuringly and caressed his cheek then rocked her hips against his hand. "I-it doesn't hurt. It's, it's just different. I never actually had anyone's finger in there before or mine for that matter." She felt her face flame with her admission.

"I should hope not!" He retorted. His thoughts immediately went to Fuwa. This was hardly the time to be going there. He counted to ten to calm himself down. He was being a jealous idiot of his own volition.

She didn't mean to make him angry. She was thinking more along the lines of a doctor when she said that. She had an appointment with a gynecologist coming up. Kanae warned her that it was high time she saw one especially given her new relationship. She needed to take responsibility for her health and body.

Kyoko brushed a finger over his lips soothingly. Her ego swelled at seeing this jealous side of him. It was endearing. "I did use this finger to touch myself though," she teased in a sultry voice. She had no clue where this brazen part of her was coming from. The way he looked at her and touched her made her feel confident, beautiful, and wanted.

His eyes smoldered to a darker hue. She stared into the deep sea-green eyes of the Emperor. He nipped at her fingertip then sucked it into his mouth. She trembled as his slick hot tongue rolled over her finger. Kyoko licked her lips to relieve it from their dryness and kept her lips parted. It was erotic the way his tongue played around with her digit.

The countless dirty dreams she had of him flashed through her mind. She often found herself fondling her body to relieve some of the tension. She couldn't ask Kanae not about this so she looked it up online. Many articles suggested the use of a toy to aid in her relief. She couldn't do it. She was too cowardly to purchase such a thing let alone use it.

He wiggled the finger still inside her. This time the sensation felt different, almost delightful. She thrust her hips again. Her golden eyes may have been clouded with lust but she was able to see the blissful smile on his lips.

He leaned down to kiss the delicate skin of her neck as his finger continued to stroke inside. The soft gasps escaping her lips spurred him on until she spread her legs further. It was all the invitation he needed for another finger to join the first. She clung to his shoulders taking shallow breaths as his lips worked its way down her skin. Every kiss and every stroke he placed on her body made her gasp with delight.

He groaned when her fingers clawed at his skin the moment his mouth closed over her breast. He had to smile at her sensitivity. He rubbed the heel of his hand against her clit while continuing to stroke her inner walls. He wanted her to feel it all. She bucked her hips urging him to go faster. He knew that meant she was close. He pulled away to watch her at the precise moment she orgasmed. The way she unraveled under his touch as she found her release excited him and scared him all at once. It was apparent in her eyes, she trusted him. He made a promise to himself never to betray that trust. When her shuddering stopped, he gathered her in his arms protectively. They dozed off again until the blaring of his alarm interrupted their short slumber. He thanked God that it didn't go off earlier. It would have spoiled the mood.

Giving her a quick peck, he rolled off the bed looking quite pleased with the state she was in. She stretched languidly with a soft smile playing on her lips. Her poor excuse for underwear left nothing to the imagination. He wondered if she had more. Now that they were living together, he had the rest of eternity to find out. If she didn't have more he would gladly supply her with some for his eyes only, of course. To think, Cain's naughty little sister wore such garishness out in public. He did right by buying her pants. He would have to punish her next time.

Kyoko's eyes raked down her boyfriend's body appreciatively and widened at the sight of his erection still poking at his pants. Her body and heart hummed with happiness but was it the same for him? Did he get any enjoyment out of it? She furrowed her brows with worry and nibbled on her bottom lip.

"What is it, baby?" He asked, noticing her expression. Did he take things too far? The feeling of uncertainty from earlier flared up within him. Is this where she tells me it's not going to work out because I'm a perverted old man? He held his breath and waited for her explanation.

"Kuon, I was just wondering... it has to be painful, right?" He blinked at her confused. Her face flamed up as she nodded toward his bulging pants. "Is there anything I can do to help?" She asked sitting up on the bed.

His lips twitched with amusement. Oh, there was much she could do to be helpful but there would be plenty of time for that. For now, he was content with what they had. He already took things further than he wanted since he was unable to keep his hands to himself. Trying to distance himself from her now would only result in hurting them both. He didn't want that. He knew that if he tried she would only misunderstand even if he explained it clearly. The thought of making her feel undesirable because he couldn't keep his hands to himself made him ill. Yes, this was more than enough for him.

"Don't worry about me, baby. Mr. Palm takes care of all my needs," he joked and held up his left hand wiggling his fingers. She giggled shyly with understanding. She knew how men pleasured themselves. Seeing her at ease, Kuon turned away and headed for the bathroom.

"Can I watch you next time?" She asked in an adorably innocent voice.

He staggered and nearly fell. Did I just hear her right? Once his stance was firm again, he turned to face her. His breath caught in his throat. She was a sight. The silk sheets were rumpled at her waist and her long raven locks laid over breasts concealing her pink tips from his eyes. He felt himself growing harder. He fought his base desires to ravage her right then and there. He inhaled deeply and focused on her question. Was she serious? Did she want to watch me jack off? He could easily comply if she provided the proper entertainment. He chuckled internally. Who the hell was he kidding? She didn't have to do a damn thing. Just the thought of having her watch him right now was about to make him explode.

"Y- you want to watch me...you know?" He stammered nervously nodding towards his crotch. He felt his face heating up to match hers. He couldn't say it directly as he stared into her wide innocent eyes. He suddenly felt nervous. What if he couldn't perform with her as an audience? The thought of disappointing her horrified him.

Kyoko pulled the covers up to her chin shyly but shook her head vigorously. She wanted to watch him pleasure himself. She was curious as to how it was done and, more so, how he liked it done. She had been too nervous to click on any of the videos that popped up on her phone during her research. She wanted to learn so she could please him in return with her touch.

He nodded absentmindedly and stumbled his way to the bathroom for a quick cold shower. Her curiosity was going to be the death of him. Of course, there were worse ways to go.

Tadashi's heart pounded in his ears as he sat in the limo across the President of LME. Since he was experienced in dealing with high tension situations, Tadashi kept on his poker face even though he was extremely nervous. Despite all the information, he could gather on the man in such a short amount of time, he didn't look as eccentric as all his sources made him believe. The older gentleman looked like a distinguished businessman in his dark suit, hat, and accompanying cane. There was no sign of the flamboyant personality that Sota had reported this man possessed.

This morning, Tadashi didn't hesitate to call the phone number on the business card the foreign man gave him last night. He already showed his hand, he might as well not prolong the inevitable any longer. His stay in Japan was originally short term but he was already making arrangements to relocate. He would have to go back to the States to close out his pending projects. If his business partners didn't agree with the change he would simply quit. He had more than enough assets and investments for him to retire comfortably if he had to and would still have a hefty sum left for his daughter to inherit.

Lory quietly studied the man. From his carriage, he could tell that this man could command a fortune 500 company successfully. On paper, Morimoto Tadashi had an impressive resume, but that wasn't what Lory was interested in. He wanted to know the man behind the designer suit. Ruto did a quick search on the man but could come up with nothing on his personal life. There were past articles regarding a few socialites in New York but aside from that, he was touted as a ruthless businessman and a workaholic.

Lory was surprised when he received the call. He thought the man would drag it out a few days before making his move. Ruto answered the call and confirmed that it was indeed the man he caught lurking outside the Darumaya last night. Tadashi had asked to meet with Lory and discuss Kyoko properly in person as soon as possible. Curious, Lory told Ruto to schedule a meeting. Lory chose to meet outside of LME for fear that they would bump into Kyoko during her Press conference. He didn't want her knowing until he was well prepared himself.

"Morimoto-san, please explain your business with Mogami-kun. She is part of my family. I don't take kindly to those that wish her harm,' Lory said shrewdly.

"I completely understand Takarada-san. I am grateful that Kyoko-cha- san has someone looking out for her well-being. I don't wish her harm per se but I believe making my presence known would undoubtedly bring her pain. Regardless, for my selfish reasons, I feel I have to try. I have already missed out on too much of her life."

The man's confession tugged at Lory's heartstrings. Inner Lory was in turmoil. He cried a raging river resulting in a terrible flood, but he kept his face impassive. He desired for Kyoko to feel the love of a biological parent. Kuu was somewhat filling the role at the moment but he was in California. There was only so much he could do from abroad. In a way, Tadashi's presence was unnecessary since she also had the Darumaya couple to fill the gap nicely.

Lory kept his face solemn and asked, "Can you please speak more plainly? I don't want to assume anything."

"To make it clear, I have recently discovered that without a doubt Kyoko-cha- san is indeed my daughter," Tadashi admitted. His shoulders lifted as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. Sota did not count in his mind.

The only indication that Lory gave the man that he had heard was a grim nod. Lory had his suspicions on just how Tadashi came to that conclusion.

"Please tell me how you were able to accurately confirm your relation?"

For a brief moment, Tadashi considered lying to save any semblance of chance he might have. He suspected Lory had already put two and two together. He didn't want to insult the man's intelligence. Not when he was his best bet at seeing Kyoko. "I'll be honest. It was through unsavory means," Tadashi confessed rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "I had a trustworthy friend do me a favor. I only needed hair samples but as you recall that turned out to be a fiasco. I plan on explaining myself properly and begging her forgiveness for the incident. I needed to know before I wasted her time and caused her needless suffering."

"What were you doing there last night?" Lory asked, pleased by his answer. He would have done the same if he were in his shoes. Why bring false hope to a person? If it turned out untrue the other party was none the wiser.

"Ah yes, I asked my friend to watch over the place. I figured it was my best chance to catch her given an actress' schedule. He was the one that informed me last night that she arrived home. I had no plan last night. I only wanted to see her even if it was from a distance."

"That doesn't explain how you even found out about her. Did Mogami-san get in contact with you?" Lory couldn't imagine Kyoko's mother going out of her way to contact him this late in the game.

"No, Sae-cha...Mogami-san doesn't know I'm in Tokyo. Errr more importantly she doesn't even know my real name." Some of Tadashi's professional mask crumbled at the mention of Saena.

Lory's face contorted with rage. What kind of deception did this man play on that woman? No wonder she closed her heart off to her daughter and to love. During his meeting with Saena last year, Kyoko was the only subject. He had a feeling she was hiding great heartache and here it was before him in its physical manifestation.

"I might as well tell you. I betrayed Sae...Mogami-san seventeen years ago all to advance in my career. If possible, I would rather not rehash where my mindset was back in those days. I've known now that I was young and selfish. But I will openly admit that my love for her was not false and the fact that Kyoko-san exists is a testament to that."

Lory's bottom lip trembled and his eyes swam with tears. Why were there so many love idiots in the world? Mogami-kun never stood a chance. It was already in her genetic code to experience such hardships with love. He was happy with the way things were turning out between her and Kuon. The two were being completely honest and open about their feelings and damning anyone that got in their way. It was better than he could have expected and the public was taking it all in stride whether they liked it or not.

"I happened to catch a glimpse of Kyoko on television and instantly felt a connection. I felt like I was staring at a ghost from my past. She looked just like her mother. At least when I knew her anyway; beautiful, hopeful and so full of life. I would never know if things would have turned out differently if I knew she was pregnant. I can't change the past. All I know is how I feel right now. I would like a relationship with my daughter if she is willing to have me. I don't need forgiveness but I must try. When I'm on my deathbed, I can at least go to hell with one less regret."

Lory gazed out the window deep in thought. His enormous heart wanted to help this man reconcile with his daughter but he needed to think of all parties involved. If Kyoko in love reminded him of the Saena he knew in the past then it was his poor actions that turned her heart cold. Could he risk allowing Kyoko to be involved with such a man that inadvertently hurt her once?

"You do know that Mogami-san has openly admitted to not having a child. That statement nearly broke Mogami-kun's heart. I found out recently that she talked to her mother properly; however, I don't know the details of that conversation. You will have to ask Mogami-kun directly. I will give you one chance and one chance only. If you are in any way insincere to Mogami-kun, I know several people, myself included, that would be willing to bury you. I will let Mogami-kun know of your intentions whether she's willing or not remains up to her. I take it you will remain in Tokyo for the time being?"

"Yes, I'm making plans as we speak to relocate back to Japan. I would have to go back to the States at some point to tie up loose ends but I plan on returning as soon as possible."

"Good, then I will leave it up to Mogami-kun. I will contact you if she responds."

"Before I go, please take this. When you make the request please hand this back to her." Lory arched an eyebrow as Tadashi handed him a small pouch. "I have the rest of her stuff that my man took back at my office. Hopefully, I can return everything to her properly in person and apologize." Tadashi disembarked the limo and turned toward the President, "Thank you for your time Takarada-san." Tadashi bowed and took his leave.

When Tadashi was gone, Lory lit his cigar and contemplated their conversation. I want to see how this new development will all play out. Will, she shed her skin again and grow more as an actress? How will she overcome this new struggle? He chuckled softly and took a puff of his cigar.

Yashiro felt the buzzing of his phone inside his jacket pocket. He carefully put on his rubber glove before answering. "Hello, Yashiro Yukihito speaking."

"Yashiro-san, something has come up. Please have Ren bring Kyoko over to my house when they are free for the night," the deep drawl of the President's voice filled his ear.

"Yes sir, I will let them know. We just wrapped up the Press conference. Kyoko-chan answered all their questions amicably. I'm pretty sure Ren coached her. Those two are going to be a force to be reckoned with in the future," Yashiro said proudly.

"Thank you for your assistance with the matter. I'm glad the Press was satiated. I will let you go. Please have them come by no matter the time."

"Since Ren had a different schedule this morning he drove himself. He planned on picking up Kyoko-chan from the Lotus set so it should be easy to comply with your request. But more importantly, sir, should I be worried?"

"You will find out soon enough Yashiro-san. The only reason I'm bringing Ren in on this is that I know Mogami-kun would want him to know. Now, more than ever, I'm glad she has him by her side."

"Does this have anything to do with the robbery? Have the police apprehended the suspect? It's someone that Kyoko-chan knows, isn't it?" His suspicions leaned towards Fuwa but it seemed Okami would have recognized him right away. Plus, Fuwa was on a cross country tour right now so he should be ruled out. Yashiro made it a habit of keeping tabs on the singer since he had the tenacity to get under Ren and Kyoko's skin.

Lory was silent a minute. He forgot how astute Yashiro could be. It was the reason he chose him as Ren's manager. "Yes, I have caught the culprit more or less but he's not someone she knows. I won't say any more than that."

"Okay, thank you for disclosing that much sir. I can breathe easier knowing that Kyoko-chan is no longer in immediate danger." Yashiro sighed with relief when he hung up.

Yashiro supposed that since he would have the night off he would hit the dojo early and get a session in. He was studying to earn his seventh-degree black belt in Karate. As a high profile manager, he thought he should still be physically fit enough to protect his charges.

He looked over when he heard her laugh. She happily chatted with Sawara-san and another female employee. He wanted to protect that laughter and keep her smiling. She had been through too much in her short life. First her mother, then Fuwa, then her mother again. He wished that no other hardship befell her in this lifetime and she could just continue to be consumed with the joy of living.

AN: Yes, join me my fellow pervs...I couldn't let an opportunity for Ren to do naughty things to Kyoko pass me by. Like Kyoko, who wants to watch Ren? (raising my hand the highest)...LOL. Ok but in all seriousness, I hope I did a good job in the discussion between Morimoto and Lory.

Thank you for continuing to read. Big thanks to those that left a review of the last chapter. I appreciate all of you! To the "None" reviewer that left me feedback twice, no need to apologize, that was a bonus. I love reading what you guys have to say. It keeps me going.

Kyoko was singing "Love" by Lana Del Rey

Until next time, Sayonara! ^_^