Chapter 77: Venomous Snakes and Simple Kicks
DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skip Beat, for if I did, Kimiko would definitely go down dramatically.
Koga stood directly before Kyoko, but the girl failed to notice him with her eyes cast downwards. Annoyed by her lack of reaction, he brought his hand down over Kyoko's head in a karate chop. They were currently on a short break while the director reviewed the latest footage and had one last scene to finish before they could call it a night.
"Owww!" Kyoko exclaimed, rubbing the top of her head. "What was that for Koga-san?" She asked, aggravated by her co-star.
"Because you keep spacing out between scenes. It's creeping me out!" Koga scolded. "If it was going to bother you that much, you shouldn't have done it in the first place!"
Kyoko glared at Koga. "It's not that I regret it. It's just that…" Koga lifted his hand again when she stopped talking and got lost in her head again. When he brought his hand down again she blocked it between her palms.
"Can you please give me time to collect my thoughts before giving me a concussion?" Kyoko huffed. She wasn't about to let him catch her off guard again.
Koga flashed her a charming smile. "That's much better. I'd rather you be your spunky self than whatever state you call this." He waved his hand toward her. "If I had to hit you again, I'm pretty sure your father would pulverize me. He's quite scary. Are you sure he's not Yakuza?"
Kyoko giggled and waved towards her father who was glaring at Koga from the manager seats. His expression settled when he looked at Kyoko and returned her smile. She enjoyed having her father for company and tried not to think about him eventually leaving. He had promised to be back permanently in time for her birthday. Kyoko had tried to protect herself, but before she knew it, he had already ingrained himself into her heart. It would devastate her if he didn't return.
Earlier today, Ren and Kyoko had parted ways in the LME employee parking garage. The front entrance to the office had been packed with paparazzi trying to get in on the Heel sibling scoop. Outside the parking lot stood several more reporters beyond the gate. It was a slow process exiting as the reporters crowded around Yashiro's car. They had no idea Kyoko was in the dark-tinted car behind them. She noticed several reporters hop into their vehicles to follow Ren. Her father told her that this may prove to be a problem when Ren tried to go home. They could easily find out where they lived.
What the President had to show them on the television were the other cast and staff members of Tragic Marker that had firsthand accounts of the siblings on set. The clip shown at that moment was of the media hounding Taira Murasame for details regarding his relationship with the Heels. They focused on a comment from a staff member stating that Ren had lost control and almost killed both Taira and himself. The actor wasn't pleased with the accusation and had replied tersely, "It was an honor working with both of them. They were true professionals and devoted to their craft." The reporter shouted out more questions, but Taira waved him off as he entered the building.
Kyoko squirmed watching that footage. Now that the NDA was lifted, the other employees wasted no time talking about the siblings' behavior. Thank goodness Ren had only lost control that one time and it seemed Taira was being supportive. It would only be a matter of time before the other stuff surfaced. She had spoken bravely weeks ago that she would face this head-on, but saying and doing were two different things. Now that everything was finally coming to light, she started to panic a little. Okay, maybe a lot. Someone was bound to talk about the hickey she left on Ren's neck. It wasn't the fact that she put one on him that worried her. Now that they were in a relationship, she was more embarrassed that she had left such a terrible one on him, teeth marks and all. She didn't want anyone making fun of Ren for having such an inexperienced girlfriend.
Kyoko's thoughts were brought back to the present by her impatient co-star.
"Well, are you going to tell me what's going on in that brain of yours?" Koga asked, tapping his foot at the girl he thought of as a little sister. She was gaining too much media attention too fast. This was all that cursed Ren's fault. He didn't want to see her get eaten up and spit out by the press. In the short time he had known her, Koga realized that she had real talent and could make it far as an actress. This alter-ego of hers was a testament to her skill. Any way he looked at her, he still could not believe that she was Setsuka.
"It's just that..." Kyoko paused and stared at Koga. Could she tell him how anxious she was feeling about all the gossip being spread about them on set? Koga gave her an exasperated look. "Okay, I just can't help but recall certain scenes that may hurt Ren's reputation."
"Are you an idiot?! Tsuruga-kun is a guy. His reputation would never take a hit because of this. You should be more worried about yourself," Koga scolded her. "If that guy cared for you even a little bit, he should have never allowed you to go incognito with him. You didn't even get paid for that job."
Kyoko laughed with relief. It was good to have another popular actor's opinion. "I was paid in acting skills and I plan on milking all the best acting techniques from him."
Koga gaped in disbelief then shook his head sternly. This girl...
"I was able to grow as an actress from watching and experiencing it all first hand. Koga-san, thank you. I feel so much better now. I bet you're the eldest brother, aren't you? You make a great Onii-san."
If what Koga said was true then Ren would be just fine. The thought eased the anxiety her heart. "Since Ren will be okay, all I have to do is withstand this storm until it all blows over." She pumped her fist in determination. I won't lose to this, even if I have to claw my way out of it.
Koga tried to keep his expression firm, but he couldn't help the smile tugging at his lips. This girl was too dense for her own good. "You know, it wouldn't hurt you to practice a little self-preservation sometimes. Be more selfish!" His silly outburst made her giggle.
"Kyoko-san, you have a delivery," one of the assistants called out to her, interrupting their conversation. Kyoko looked up to find the usual delivery woman striding towards her holding a gift bag and a clipboard. She rolled her eyes as she stood to meet the woman. Ren was at his antics again. Telling him that he gave her more than enough already and to stop sending her gifts obviously didn't work. Plus, if it was sweets, he was not helping her cause to get fit for the upcoming R'mandy swimsuit shoots. His argument, of course, was to help small local businesses by spending the money he received from the general public. Kyoko couldn't even refute his reasoning.
"Hi, it's good to see you again. Thank you for taking the trouble," Kyoko greeted with a bow to the same woman that had been delivering her gifts for the last month.
The delivery woman smiled nervously as she returned Kyoko's bow. "Hello Kyoko-san, it's no trouble at all. My company truly appreciates the business you and Tsuruga-san have brought to us. I admit it was a bit scary trying to get through the fans outside the gate, but that's to be expected of such popular celebrities. After that, security was quite easy since they are familiar with me."
Even though they've met several times, it dawned on Kyoko that she didn't know her name. She didn't wear any kind of name tag to identify her. "I'm sorry we have been meeting like this so frequently, and I still don't even know your name. Would you mind telling me?" Kyoko asked the delivery woman.
"Oh, please, Kyoko-san, I am just so grateful that I'm able to meet you like this and come on an actual filming set. For someone like me to have this opportunity, it's a dream come true," the woman replied.
"Eh, umm..." Kyoko paused, waiting for her to supply her name.
"Oh, please call me Yuri," the woman said, bowing politely.
"Yuri-san, I'll be honest, show biz isn't easy, but I think if a person applies themselves and works hard, anything is possible," Kyoko told her as living proof of not giving up.
"Kyoko-san, five minutes and we'll be ready to start again," the assistant director called out from the set.
"Ah, sorry for keeping you. Please sign here and I'll be on my way," Yuri said, holding the clipboard. Kyoko did so and thanked her.
"If you are in no hurry, I can ask the director if you can stick around to watch the filming. I'll be right back," Kyoko suggested and disappeared like a ninja before Yuri could respond. Kyoko ran to her trailer to drop off the gift and text Ren quickly. She took a moment to peek inside the bag and saw delicious chocolates wrapped in pretty packaging.
"Wow! You're really fast!" Yuri exclaimed, amazed at the actress' speed. "I'm sorry, Kyoko-san, thank you for the offer, but I must finish up my wor-," Yuri's voice trailed off as a commotion at the front gate caught her attention. Kyoko followed her distracted gaze since it was unusually loud over there.
...
The front entrance of The Sacred Lotus set was loaded with paparazzi and fans. Another layer of barricades was erected to keep the people further back and let vehicles pass through. This new setup allowed the car to pull directly in front of the gate. The entrance was ablaze with lights now that the sun had set. Kimiko was counting on this audience recognizing her and using them to her advantage. Stepping out of the car, she watched it pull away, then glanced at the crowd in front of her before turning towards the security officer. That should be more than enough time for them to look at my face and take some photos. She soaked in the praise rustling through the crowd about her beauty and style. The security guard at the front entrance stood stock still, captivated by her beauty. Kimiko smiled sweetly and batted her lashes at him as a reward for recognizing true beauty when he saw it.
"Um, excuse me, my name is Morizumi Kimiko. I should be on the guest list," she announced loud and clear for those nearby to hear her introduction. It angered her that they didn't even recognize her. She had convinced Cedric that she sincerely wanted to make amends with Kyoko before she left the country. Her father didn't deserve to be chastised for any of her mistakes.
Did you hear that? She just said Morizumi Kimiko right?
Morizumi? The Morizumi?! As in the one from yesterday.
It had finally clicked and before she knew it, reporters were shouting questions her way while fans of Ren and Kyoko shouted obscenities at her. The security guards reacted fast to keep them behind the barricade. Once she knew that she was safe, Kimiko used this moment to address the press when someone asked if she was there to confront Kyoko.
She flashed them her most angelic smile and answered, "I'm not here to cause trouble. I'm simply bearing a peace offering. I'm here to apologize to Kyoko-san for my deplorable behavior yesterday. I'm glad my father was there to literally knock some sense into me," she admitted with a cute giggle.
"How could you laugh about something like that?" another reporter shouted.
"I'm not perfect. Even I feel anger and jealousy as much as any other person. I was wrong to have allowed it to consume me. I had a long talk with my father last night. We have forgiven each other and are moving forward, choosing to learn from our mistakes and be better versions of ourselves. I hope you all can forgive us. And if not me, then my father. He is good and kind. I wouldn't change him for the world," Kimiko pleaded and bowed deeply.
"Kimiko!" a familiar male voice shouted from behind her through the gate. Kimiko stood from her bow and turned, smiling broadly at Cedric. With a final wave to the crowd, she entered after collecting her purse and gift bag from the guard.
"Ric, thank you for this! I appreciate your help," she said, kissing him lightly on the cheek. "You're a good friend."
"You're welcome. I think everyone deserves a second chance. I hope someday I'm able to apologize and get mine."
As usual, Kimiko didn't know what he was talking about. He would often make references to something that happened in the past, but never elaborated on anything. She concluded that he was probably thinking of another woman he might have hurt, making her insides twist with jealousy.
"By the way, you look beautiful in that outfit and you changed your hair color back. It suits you."
Kimiko dipped her head shyly, blushing at his compliments.
...
"Kyoko-san, we're ready now!" the assistant called her over to the set. Kyoko briefly made eye contact with Kimiko, wondering why she was here. Remembering the delivery woman, Kyoko diverted her gaze back to her.
"Yuri-sa..." Eh, where did she go? She searched the area, but Yuri was nowhere in sight. A protective Tadashi joined her and together they walked to the set discussing quietly Kimiko's possible motives.
Tadashi promised to stay as close to her as possible and wouldn't allow the girl to harm his daughter again. Sota had messaged him ten minutes ago, warning Tadashi that Kimiko was coming here. His friend had briefed him on Kimiko's activities today. She had mostly pampered herself and Sota confirmed that the contents in her bag came from a reputable gift shop. When Kyoko was safe on the set, Tadashi pulled out his phone to make a call.
After hanging up, Tadashi intercepted Cedric and Kimiko. "Mr. Bennett, what is the meaning of this? Why have you brought Ms. Morizumi here? If she means to harm my daughter I won't forgive either of you."
Cedric and Kimiko were taken aback at the hostility rolling off Tadashi. The man had always been very amicable whenever Cedric met him on the set.
"Mr. Morimoto, I think you are exaggerating. Kimiko would never harm Ms. Kyoko. She may have said a few harsh words the other day, but Ms. Kyoko is strong. She won't be hurt by mere words," Cedric replied, trying to make peace with the angry father.
Tadashi ignored the young man and glared at Kimiko. It was obvious Cedric was clueless of the harm his friend was capable of dishing out.
Kimiko broke into a cold sweat. Staring into the man's hard golden eyes made her tremble. She could tell that he knew what she had down to Kyoko, but it was too late now. There was no going back.
Kimiko bowed deeply in apology. "Morimoto-san, I know I have wronged Kyoko-san in the past, but it is as Ric-san says. I will be leaving for the United States in a couple of days and would like to apologize to Kyoko-san in person."
Tadashi nodded, deciding to let this play out. If whatever she had in the bag was for Kyoko, he would recommend she throw it away, especially if it was edible. He couldn't shake the feeling that something was still off with this girl.
Cedric was completely confused, barely understanding their conversation. He had to be missing something crucial for the normally agreeable man to be so opposed to Kimiko's apology. Cedric mentally added it to the top of the long list of questions he had in store for her. The charade she had played on him the other night when she stayed over at his place was first on the list. Initially, he had reached out to her so he could get answers, but her desire to apologize was so convincing he couldn't say no.
Kyoko released all ties to herself and embodied Momiji as she acted out the next few scenes with Chidori. She caught sight of the trio standing back from the set while they paused to reset the props. The director wanted to film the same scene from a different angle with more emotion in Chidori's expression. She couldn't understand why Cedric was sticking around when his scenes were over. The nagging sensation that they were waiting for her stuck as she watched them linger. Her only reprieve to the awkward situation would be her boyfriend's arrival.
Kyoko hoped it would take them longer to nail the scene and couldn't in good conscience deliberately mess up just to buy herself time. The director had reviewed the footage and called it a night. While the crew went to work securing the set, Kyoko did her rounds, thanking the cast and crew for their hard work. When that didn't take long enough, she found herself doing remedial tasks to help.
"What are you doing?" Koga asked, folding his arms over his chest.
"I have no clue what you're talking about, Koga-san," Kyoko replied with an air of innocence and straightened up some props knocked over during taping.
Koga smirked. "I know you wear a chicken suit for work, but I didn't know that you were actually a chicken," Koga insulted, taking a stab at her cowardice.
"Fine! If anything bad happens, I'm blaming you," Kyoko huffed and stomped off to greet her nemesis.
...
Director Morizumi pulled Kimiko off to the side. His eyes bore into her eyes, searching for any sign of her earlier madness. He had known her since birth and watched her grow into the fine young lady. The last few days had left him questioning his instincts. What was she planning to do this time? He had allowed Cedric to put her name on the list because he still believed in the sweet little girl he once knew. He regretted allowing it when he saw his brother's text messages searching for his daughter. Confused, he replied to his brother's text before confronting Kimiko.
"Kimi, does your father know you're here? I don't want any trouble," Jouji whispered harshly.
"Relax, Uncle," Kimiko appealed, flashing him her sweetest, most innocent smile. "I'm here to make amends."
The smile he once thought cute on her looked sinister now, making him shiver.
"Oh, here comes Kyoko-san now," she announced giddily.
Kimiko stepped into Kyoko's path, startling the girl. She bowed deeply and stretched her hands out, holding the gift bag. Kimiko had been running this scene in her mind the whole ride over so she could get it just right. Speaking loudly and deliberately, she hoped to gather a small audience to witness her apology.
"Kyoko-san, I'm sorry for all the trouble I've caused you. My anger and jealousy of your talent got the best of me and clouded my judgment. Everything I wanted just seemed to come so naturally for you; acting, getting the perfect roles, and your relationship with Ren-san. I had liked him for so long, but he never once looked my way except out of politeness. I was frustrated by my lack of improvement. We're the same age and you managed..." Kimiko's voice cracked as a sob escaped her lips. Her body trembled, not from sadness, but from unuse to posturing for so long. "You managed to achieve something in such a short time that I've been trying to obtain since I was a small child. I have no excuse. It was my fault for relying on my family to further my career, and now, it's too late for me to do anything about it."
Kyoko assumed she was referring to the agreement she had made with Erika.
Kimiko stood up from her bow, tears pricking the corner of her eyes while holding out the gift bag since Kyoko refused to take it. "I'm leaving Japan soon but before I go I wanted to at least clear up my family's name. They did everything for me out of love so I hope you could forgive them. I know Ren-san is kind and understanding. He would never hold my shortcomings against them. As his partner, I hope you wouldn't either."
Kyoko stared at the same bag with the logo of the store that Ren often sent gifts from. In Kimiko's hands, it looked like she was offering Kyoko a poisonous viper. Everyone stared at her expectantly, but Kyoko was hesitant about taking anything from the girl. They didn't know the evilness Kimiko possessed. The incident with Erika Koenji, the balcony, giving out her Darumaya address to the press, the set accidents, and the article, were only of what Kyoko knew. Kimiko had done everything to make things difficult for Kyoko, yet the people around her, less Koga and her father were insisting she accept her apology. Thinking about Kimiko's misdeeds had Kyoko grudges stirring.
"Please, mistress, now is our chance to exact our revenge!"
Kyoko continued to stare at Kimiko trying to decide whether or not to accept her apology. She couldn't understand why someone, who had it all— family, beauty, and talent— could come out so corrupt. Kuon's face flashed in her mind. Kyoko shook her head quickly to dispel those thoughts. They weren't the same, and he was atoning for his past. Perhaps Kimiko deserved another chance too.
Kimiko stared at Kyoko, confused by her expression. Is this bitch really going to refuse my apology? I even fucking bowed to her in public, something I rarely do for my parents. How dare she embarrass me in front of all these people? She hadn't planned for Kyoko to refuse.
"I will not forgive you," Kyoko responded, making the crowd gasp around her.
How could she be so unreasonable? was the consensus of the collective.
"But!" She shouted to quiet them all down. "I will accept your apology on one condition."
Kimiko's eyes flashed with anger that only Kyoko witnessed, but the ex-actress quickly covered it up with wide-eyed innocence. "Wh-what is the condition?" she stammered, glancing nervously at their audience.
"I want you to change yourself for the better," Kyoko answered with a warm smile. "I'm sure you can do it!" Kuon had been working all this time to become a better version of himself. Kyoko was sure the girl could do the same.
Kimiko smirked inwardly. What an idiot?
On cue, Kimiko's face lit up with a dazzling smile. Clutching Kyoko's hand with hers, Kimiko gushed with happiness. "Thank you, Kyoko-san. I'm so glad I met with you! I promise to be better." She released Kyoko's hand and swiped at the tears that were threatening to spill over her cheeks.
The small crowd of bystanders applauded and cheered, relieved that the two pretty girls were able to make up.
"I wasn't sure what you liked, but I hope you can enjoy this little gift," Kimiko offered, humbly bowing once again to hand over the gift.
With everyone watching, Kyoko had no choice but to accept the bag.
"That's great, Kimiko! I knew Kyoko would be open to an apology. I'm going to change and I'll take you out for a celebratory/going away party," Cedric insisted when the girls parted.
"Thank you, Ric. I'll come with you. I need to freshen up my makeup. I got a little emotional there, but I'm so happy she accepted."
Kyoko watched them walk away until a loud ruckus coming from the entrance of the set distracted her.
"I guess your boyfriend is here," Koga said sarcastically and rolled his eyes heavenward. The screams coming from the front confirmed his words.
Kyoko's gaze locked on the gate until Yashiro and Ren popped in, heading towards them. Her heart rate sped up, beating erratically when he assaulted her with a heavenly smile, knocking out several coworkers on the way. Kyoko's face split into a big stupid grin in return.
"Oh, God, I think I'm going to barf watching you two make googly eyes at each other," Koga teased under his breath.
"Koga-san, if I didn't know any better, I would say you were jealous of me," Ren ribbed as he stepped up to Kyoko after greeting the director and gave her a peck on top of her head.
"Who's jealous? Your little stunt as Cain Heel may come back to bite you in the ass. I'll be looking down at you from my lofty perch next time," Koga challenged Ren. Every time Koga thought he was pulling ahead of Ren, his rival went and one-upped him. This playing a double life opposite his true nature was going to give Koga a run for his money. He needed to step up his game.
"I wish you all the luck," Ren chuckled. Those polls never mattered to him. As long as he was getting steady work that challenged his acting skills, he was fine with being below.
After talking to Tadashi, Yashiro greeted them and joined their conversation. "Oh, Kyoko-chan. I see you received something good, today, " Yashiro elbowed his male charge. Ren frowned, recalling Kyoko's last message to him. He would have to question her later.
"Eh, um, Morizumi-san gave this to me. A sort of peace offering, I guess," Kyoko shrugged, explaining how she came to possess the gift bag in her hand. She had been instructed by her father to throw away whatever was in the bag; however, she refused to look inside for fear she wouldn't have the strength to waste something so expensive.
Ren tensed beside her. "She didn't do anything underhanded to you, did she?" He asked, giving her a once-over to make sure everything was in place.
"I'm fine. It seemed all she wanted to do was apologize and so I accepted. Everyone deserves a second chance, right?" She asked, looking up at Ren. He smiled sweetly at her and nodded. It was so like her to see the good in others no matter how bad they were.
"Are you done for the night? I had wanted to watch you work, but it appears I was too late. I'll walk you to your dressing room," Ren offered. They nodded to those in the vicinity as they headed towards the dressing rooms.
When they neared the back area of the outdoor set, they heard raised voices. Kyoko and Ren glanced at each other and decided to investigate. Neither of them considered the risks of their hasty decision.
...
Kimiko had followed Cedric towards his dressing room so she could use the ladies' room nearby and touch up her makeup. Cedric had just entered his dressing room when someone called her name.
"Kimi!" The voice said in a loud whisper. Kimiko turned in its direction as a hand shot out and covered her mouth. "Shhh! It's just me!" the female voice pleaded as she removed her hand.
"Yuri! What the hell are you still doing here? Are you trying to get us caught?" Kimiko hissed, dragging the woman to a dimly lit but empty part of the set. She looked both ways and slid open the shoji door quickly and pulled the stupid delivery woman in after her. A glance around confirmed the room was empty. She stopped to look around the room only when her heels dug into the tatami mats lining the floor. The place was sparsely furnished with a cabinet in the corner and a low wide table sitting in the center. Scrolls in various states of completion covered the wooden surface along with calligraphy brushes and tiny glass bottles of ink. An oil lantern in a far corner and on the table cast a soft glow around the room. The state of the room meant that the crew could return any minute to secure the space for the night. Kimiko had to make this quick; she couldn't afford to be seen with this woman.
"Why the hell are you still here?" Kimiko demanded, glaring at the woman that used to be her manager before everything went to shit.
"I panicked, okay. I saw you and Ric coming in and I ended up hiding. What if he recognized me? He'd know something was up. Security is so tight here I didn't want to get caught. You have to help me get out of here! I need a change of clothes or something. If security questioned me for taking so long they would no doubt alert Uncle Jouji."
Kimiko pursed her lips, annoyed that this incompetent woman was her cousin by blood.
"Why are you always so stupid? All you had to do was deliver the gift from Ren-san and be on your merry way! Even as my manager you gave off this confident air around others, yet you always relied on me."
"I know! I messed up! Can you help me? I was just doing the favor for you!"
"Favor? Is that what you're calling it? If things go wrong, I'm pinning all of this on you!" Kimiko threatened, pointing her finger at Yuri.
"What? You can't do that? This was your idea. You're the one that couldn't just let things go with Kyoko-san. I've done nothing but try to help you. You can't blame all this on me, Kimi or…"
"Or what?" Kimiko taunted.
"I- I'll tell them the truth!" Yuri replied nervously.
"The truth?" Kimiko smiled evilly at her ex-manager. "Who do you think they're going to believe more? All I have to do is tell them about that incident you were involved in and they'll lock you up! I'm just an innocent girl listening to the Onee-san I trusted most in my life."
"I'll tell Ric! He'll believe me," Yuri screeched hysterically.
Kimiko laughed sarcastically, "Ric will never believe you."
"What about me?" Cedric growled, hoping he understood what she meant correctly. Both women turned startled as he stepped into the dimly lit room blocking the exit, his face contorted in anger.
Cedric had come out of his dressing room looking for Kimiko. He circled toward the back where the washrooms were located and heard voices coming from the side of the set they had used earlier. His Japanese was so shoddy he could only understand some of what they were talking about. He understood names perfectly and got a vague idea of some scheme involving his co-star and her boyfriend. It was about time to intervene when his name was mentioned. He was going to get Kimiko to talk and make sure it was in English.
On cue, Kimiko burst into tears and Yuri's face paled. It was all over unless they could lie their way out of this one.
"One of you start talking! What are you planning for Ms. Kyoko?" Cedric's voice was deadly and his eyes were cold. He was done playing games.
Kimiko gaped, shocked by the way he glared at her, and Yuri could only lower her gaze to the ground. If they didn't say anything they should be okay.
He stepped towards Kimiko, hoping his presence would be intimidating enough to scare her into submission. The girl trembled beside him, trying to transform herself into a small defenseless animal about to be devoured by a predator. If anyone walked into the room right now they would see a scene where Cedric was the aggressor and threatening these helpless women.
"What have you done Kimiko?" Cedric demanded, menacingly.
Kimiko dropped to the floor and covered her face as sobs racked through her body. She was shaking her head in denial. Cedric knew he wasn't going to get anything out of her so he turned to the other woman. He didn't recognize her at first but as he took a closer look realization struck him.
"You're her manager, right? Where have you been and why are you dressed like that?" He questioned, taking in the familiar uniform she wore. She looked different when she wasn't all dolled up.
Yuri pulled the hat lower on her brow and adjusted her uniform. It wasn't the most flattering thing she ever wore and her face without makeup showed all her acne scars. She would be unrecognizable to those that she only met a few times, but she had known Cedric from their time in America.
Ren and Kyoko finally found the source of the sound they heard. Rather than hang back and wait, they stepped right into the room, worried about the person crying. What they discovered was alarming, but unsurprising. Cedric was bullying Kimiko and the delivery lady.
Ren immediately saw red and his fingers clenched in anger. This bastard is still pulling this shit! He hasn't changed at all!
Cedric turned in surprise at the unexpected arrivals. Sensing the deadly aura Ren had aimed at him, Cedric held his hands up in surrender.
"Hey man, this isn't what it looks like," Cedric pleaded, taking a step back even though Ren was across the room.
Kyoko put her hand on Ren's arm to calm him down and looked objectively at the scene.
Cedric saw her gesture and relaxed. At least one of them wasn't so hot-headed. He was still unsure what he did to rub Ren the wrong way. It always seemed like the guy wanted to rip his head off for no good reason.
With wary eyes trained on Cedric, Kyoko walked slowly to comfort Kimiko. She didn't know what happened, but she could at least make sure the girl was okay. Before reaching her, Cedric shook his head no, making her hesitate.
"Bennett-san, could you tell us what's going on here?" Kyoko asked, staring at her costar, confused. Why was Yuri-san here as well? Was he in a relationship with her and Morizumi-san caught them? Kyoko was familiar with that feeling of hurt and betrayal from someone you loved.
"That's what I was trying to find out. I heard these two conspiring against you, Ms. Kyoko," Cedric folded his arms stubbornly. Kimiko cried harder and soon Yuri joined her.
Oh, I was way off base, Kyoko thought then bristled at what he said. I knew it. Her grand gesture earlier was a setup. She wanted me to drop my guard. "Yuri-san? Did she pay you to spy on me?" Kyoko asked, addressing the delivery woman.
"She's actually Kimiko's manager. She can speak English," Cedric informed her.
"What?" Kyoko and Ren cried in astonishment. A vision of an attractive woman in a business suit at the auditions flashed into her mind. She looked nothing like the woman before her. Kyoko's minions told their mistress not to think of her as a kindred spirit just because she was unrecognizable without makeup.
Kyoko elbowed Ren in the ribs and whispered, "You've worked with her more in that last drama! Shouldn't you remember what she looks like?"
"Would you believe me if I told you they all look the same to me? If it's not you, I don't really notice," Ren answered with a sheepish grin.
"Smooth, playboy, real smooth!" Kyoko responded, winking at him.
Cedric marveled at the pair, a little annoyed by their flirting. How could they joke around at a time like this? He almost envied their relationship. Then he remembered how his last one crashed and burned. He wasn't planning on getting serious with anyone again.
Kimiko squeezed her eyes closed hoping to shut out the loving banter between Ren and Kyoko. She would never have that kind of relationship with Cedric no matter the lengths she went to make it happen. When Kimiko's phone buzzed in her purse, something in her snapped. Right on time, Stalker-san. Her shoulders began to shake in earnest and she picked herself up off the ground, head still bent as if crying.
"Kimiko, tell us what's going on? I'm sure we can fix it," Cedric pleaded with his friend. The noise she made no longer sounded like crying. His face turned to shock when he realized she was laughing. What the fuck?
Kimiko lifted her head, abruptly cutting off her laughter. "You won't ever return my feelings would you Ric? She asked, her tone full of bitterness.
Cedric was caught off guard. He had no clue how to answer her. If he said the wrong thing she might fly off the handle so he stayed quiet.
"Even after all I've done to save you," Kimiko whispered, her gaze still locked on him.
Now, Cedric was really confused. What was she talking about? "I'm sorry, Kimiko. I never had those kinds of feelings for you. You deserve someone that wou-"
"That bitch didn't deserve you! I had to make you see that she was only using you for your family connections!" Kimiko screamed, her frantic eyes flashing with desperation.
"Are you talking about Viola?" Cedric chocked out, understanding the gravity of the situation.
"That idiot was so easy to manipulate. Wasn't it so convenient how this part became available?" Kimiko responded with a sinister giggle. "I had it all planned out. I would be Chidori. You would be Yamada-san. You would see me as your ideal Japanese woman and we would live happily ever after," Kimiko sighed wistfully with a dreamy smile playing on her lips.
Holy shit, this chick is psycho! Cedric thought. He was feeling very uncomfortable for having spent so much time with her and felt at fault for unassumingly leading her on. While he appreciated the purity and sweetness of Japanese women, maybe mentioning it to her to make polite conversation was a big mistake.
"So when you couldn't nab the role of Chidori, you went after Momiji? You injured Koenji-san and tried to throw Kyoko off a balcony just to get the part…and when you didn't get it, you still caused trouble for Kyoko and the people on the set!" Ren accused, through clenched teeth forgoing his British accent. His anger rose as he glanced between the two women, fingers curling in tight fists as he struggled to keep calm. Nails dug into the palms of his hands, welcoming the pain inflicted to distract him from going dark. It pissed him off that she had planned this all to gain the attention of some guy. No, not just some guy, him.
"Ren? Kyoko-chan are you in here?" Yashiro's voice called out. The manager finally made it to their location through another sliding door on the other side of the room. Tadashi, Kimiko's uncle, and her father were right behind him. Tadashi and Yashiro took in the situation and had an inkling of what was happening, but the Morizumi men were totally confused.
"What's going on? Kimi? Yuri?" Jiro asked, taking in the scene. The two actors appeared to be very angry with his daughter. What did she do now? Jouji told me she had apologized properly. Was it all a ruse?
"Father, thank goodness you're here. These men are threatening me. I only did what Yuri told me to do," Kimiko confessed, shying away from Cedric and Ren out of fear and upping the waterworks.
"You're lying! It was all Kimi's idea, Uncle. I had to go along with it because…because…" Yuri couldn't finish her sentence. Was she ready to condemn herself if she said any more? No! What happened years ago was between her and Kimiko. Yuri couldn't let that truth come out.
Kimiko smirked at her older cousin. That hit-and-run incident was a secret that she held over her cousin's head for years. She was only eleven years old when she came to America to visit her sophisticated cousin studying abroad. It was very late and the street was dimly lit. According to Yuri, the guy just darted out into the middle of the road. Yuri couldn't stop in time. She had been drinking, so not thinking clearly, she fled the scene. When she got back to the apartment she tried to hide the evidence by setting her car on fire behind a deserted warehouse. The car was easily reported stolen the next morning, and Yuri begged Kimiko to tell the police that she had been home with her all night. When the news reported that the man she hit had died from his injuries, Yuri steeled herself to take the secret to her grave. Ever since then, she had become a puppet to Kimiko's whims.
Yuri glanced at her cousin realizing her life was over no matter the outcome. If she somehow got out of this unscathed, she would suffer a worse fate under Kimiko. She decided to take her chances with the devil she knew and gave in. "It's true! It was all Kimi's idea, but it doesn't excuse the fact that I was always there helping with her latest scheme. I will take full responsibility as the adult here."
"No, that's not right! Kimiko should take some blame too!" Cedric shouted, once again hoping he didn't misinterpret what Yuri just said. He hoped Ren or Kyoko would correct him if he was wrong. "If what Tsuruga said is true, you've hurt too many people, put the movie behind schedule, and caused cost overruns. And you did this all for what? For me to notice you? This is too much! Did you mean any part of that apology you made to Ms. Kyoko earlier? I believed in you! I should have known something was up when you lied about being mugged that night."
Kimiko gasped, surprise written all over her face. Her features became ugly, turning accusatory eyes on her cousin. She must have told him the truth!
"Did she tell you that? She's lying!" Kimiko spat.
"She didn't have to tell me anything! I followed you! You're really sick, you know. Did you pay someone to hit you or did you actually do that yourself?" Cedric asked disgustedly.
Kimiko clenched her fingers into tight fists, her heart shattering into a thousand pieces. It hurt to hear the man she loved talking so harshly to her. The way he looked at her now made her feel like trash.
"Ric, please... I love you," Kimiko begged, reaching for his hand as he tried to walk away. He shrugged her off of him his face finally registering pain. "Ric, please! I'm sorry! I can fix this! We can be like before! We can still be friends!"
"I'm sorry too," he told her quietly, glancing at her one last time. He turned to the rest of them. "I'm so sorry for the trouble. This is all my fault." He bowed deeply for several seconds then moved to leave the room.
"I would throw that away if I were you," he gestured to the gift bag she held before leaving. Kyoko gave him a weak smile and nodded.
Kimiko was blind with rage. In her eyes, Cedric had just chosen Kyoko over her. Not giving her a second glance, Ren and Kyoko turned to follow him out. With their backs to the angry woman, they didn't see her pick up the nearby lantern and heave it in their direction.
Everything happened in a blink of an eye. Yashiro was the quickest to respond, executing a simple mewashi-geri with his left leg that would have made his Sensei proud. He sent the lantern flying in the opposite direction thus successfully protecting his charges from harm. The lantern shattered from the force of his kick as it flew through the air. The fuel in the lamp ignited as it sailed on a collision course straight for none other than Kimiko. Nobody could react quick enough to stop it. Kimiko raised her arms in a weak attempt to shield her face as liquid flames splashed over her. The smell of singed hair and burnt flesh filled the air as the room erupted in chaos. Agonizing squeals of a pig to slaughter could be heard all the way to the parking lot.
AN: Bwahahaha I did that! Holy Hell People! I tried to press on but I've reached my limit. So I will continue with this madness in the next chapter. Was it believable, anticlimactic, or completely ridiculous? I was trying to figure out some reason Kimiko's manager aided her in all her schemes and I came up with the notion that Kimiko had some serious dirt on her. All I can say is, I'm ridiculous!
Anyway, thanks for sticking with me and I hope you enjoyed it. I'd appreciate all your thoughts on this chapter since I've been avoiding it for so long.
Until next time, ja ne! ^_^