Chapter 87: Bro Code

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skip Beat, for if I did, Ren and Yashiro would have more personal talks by now.

Yashiro closed his eyes and tried to imagine that he was at a theme park, securely strapped into the most thrilling ride of the day. He always loved roller coasters— the velocity, the tight corners, and the sudden drops from high above that they offered. It made him feel like a daredevil. He especially loved when there were loops involved, the more, the better. Yet here he was sitting shotgun as Ren took them for one final spin in the little sports car praying, between squeals of fright, to Kami-sama that they wouldn't die.

One of Fraser's test drivers had given Ren pointers on how to drift the sports car in under ten minutes. They had just wrapped up the final scene of the CM using the straightaway portion of the manufacturer's test track and had some time before his next appointment. It was the obstacle course section of the track that had Yashiro screaming like a little girl. On this side, vehicles were tested on their handling and accidental avoidance features which meant there was always something appearing in their way rather quickly.

It was the challenge in Ren's voice, "live a little," old man, and the small smirk dancing on his lips that had Yashiro bravely climbing into the passenger seat. Could be fun, he thought as he figured out how to strap himself into the four-point harness seat belt. The robustness in the belt alone was already a bit disconcerting. He should have known better.

Yashiro opened his eyes a tiny slit when the car finally came to a halt. Am I dead?

As if reading his thoughts, Ren responded, "You survived, Yashiro-san. I didn't even go very fast." There's no way I would after what happened with Rick, Ren thought solemnly.

"Well, you went plenty fast in my opinion, Ren!" Yashiro scolded, making Ren chuckle. Yashiro's knees continued to tremble as they said their goodbyes to the director and the rest of the team.

Fraser-san handed Ren his business card and told him to call him if he was interested in a new car. He would gladly give him a deal he couldn't refuse. In other words, free. Ren thanked him and followed Yashiro out for his next appointment.

"Yashiro-san, are you still angry with me?" Ren asked while Yashiro drove them to the next site. Yashiro stared straight ahead with both hands gripping the steering wheel tightly in a proper ten and two o'clock hand position like he was taught at driving school. Yashiro shuddered remembering the little stroll Ren had taken him on.

Eventually, they came to a red light and Yashiro turned to give him a dry look. His face heated, recalling the unmanly squeals he had let loose while Ren drifted them around the track.

"It sounded like you were having a lot of fun," Ren stated, failing to keep the laughter out of his voice. He had never seen his manager so distraught in all the years he had known him.

Yashiro replied coldly, "Ren if you ever tell Kyoko-chan about my behavior today, I will make sure to sign you up to endorse every single food product that comes across my desk. That includes CM's, cooking shows, celebrity contests, etc… for the rest of your lucrative career."

"Eh…that's a bit overkill. Plus, I promised to always tell Kyoko everything," Ren teased. "If Kyoko thinks I'm starting to keep secrets from her again, I'm not sure what would happen to our relationship. It took us so long to finally get to a good place only to see it crumble over something so silly," Ren said with an exaggerated sigh.

"Ren, I'm asking you as your best friend. Honor the Bro Code. If you tell Kyoko-chan, she's going to tell Kanae. Girls talk, Ren! Don't you know that? Kanae probably already knows all the sordid details about your relationship," Yashiro retorted seriously.

"What?" Ren croaked, his throat going dry. He turned wide eyes toward Yashiro, his face draining of all color. Yashiro didn't register Ren's shock and continued his rant.

"You know what, just tell her! Just tell her! I'm comfortable in my masculinity. Any sane person would have been terrified in my position. After all, I'm a hardened criminal these days, no one would believe you," Yashiro boasted. He was mostly joking with that last part. He turned to Ren once he quieted down.

"Something wrong?" Yashiro asked, confused by Ren's expression.

"What exactly do you think the girls talk about?" Ren asked, after reining in his panic. While Yashiro ranted, he worked it through his mind that he had nothing to worry about. He trusted Kyoko. She would never tell anyone his secret, including her best friends. Now he was curious to know what else they might have discussed. Like, am I good in bed?

"The usual, I guess," Yashiro answered. Ren's hopeful face had him explaining in more detail. "I used to overhear my sister talking to her friends about nonsensical stuff. Like who was the best kisser. How lame was the last date? How far she got with what's his face. If he's packing or not. If they had some misunderstanding with a guy. They always seek each other's advice for that stuff...they talk. No topic is taboo with best friends."

Ren got a general idea. "I see. Well, I'll try not to tell her, but there's no guarantee. I can't lie to her if she asks."

Yashiro let out a sigh. "It's okay, I'll live. I just can't promise that I won't retaliate by signing you up for something food-related."

Ren winced. He supposed it was only fair after taunting and scaring Yashiro.

"So the meeting today is to go over the contract for your next drama. I did turn in all the red lines you had in the script over to the director," Yashiro said, changing the subject.

"Did the director mention anything about my changes?"

"He was a bit disappointed but willing to compromise."

"I'm not comfortable performing those kinds of scenes right now. I know I sound childish and unprofessional, but I don't want that to put a strain on our relationship."

"What if Kyoko-chan was the actress?"

Ren smiled slyly without replying. Of course, he would consider it in a heartbeat but was he willing to share her with the audience like that was another matter.

Kyoko and Tadashi made it through the security gates of the Sacred Lotus set unscathed. As usual, the vultures were waiting for their next big scoop. Since the barricades were behind the entrance, they couldn't get near them. She ignored the questions being shouted at her and handed her bag over to the security guard. After passing security, they walked into the courtyard to find everyone milling about at the center. Their focus changed to her. She could feel the glances and whispers directed her way. It was nothing malicious. She saw more sympathy and curiosity in their eyes. Koga spotted her and approached with a grim expression.

"Whoa, Kyoko-chan. I guess it's that time of the year already huh!" Koga teased when he finally reached her, gesturing to her school uniform. She had planned to change out of it after filming tonight.

"Koga-san, good evening," Kyoko greeted him with a graceful bow. She was relieved that he was still treating her the same. "I started school yesterday. Though it's a bit..." Kyoko didn't have to finish her sentence. Koga nodded in understanding.

"By the way, what's going on here? Will we be filming today?" Kyoko asked. It didn't look like the place was ready. None of the equipment was out nor were the sets prepped.

"I don't think so. Producer Kuresaki and Director Jouji wanted to make an announcement. I just hope it's not to cancel the project," Koga said in a depressed tone.

"What do you mean?" Kyoko asked, startled. Would they do that? lt would be a huge disappointment after so much blood, sweat, and tears were poured into this drama.

"Rumor has it that a lot of the sponsors for Morizumi projects are backing out because of everything that has happened," Koga whispered to her. "Ric-san is chastising himself in that dark corner over there." Koga pointed across the crowd at a dark spot in the set. If she squinted, Kyoko could barely make out a silhouette of a person over there. "He said something about his father getting angry with him if this project fell through and he also feels responsible for Kimiko-chan."

Kyoko felt a small pang in her heart. Nobody should blame themselves for the wrongdoings of others. It had taken her some time to convince her father that none of this was his fault. It would take Yashiro more time to come around since his direct actions were responsible for Kimiko's injuries. She shuddered at the memory of watching Kimiko flail around the room engulfed in flames. The biggest thing that would stick with her for the rest of her life would be the horrible stench of burning flesh. That could have been me! She thought, clenching her hands into tight fists. Worse! It could have been Kuon. Kyoko was pulled from her musings when the director and producer stood before the crowd.

"Good evening, everyone! I think we have everyone here now," Jouji announced, looking around the crowd. "It's already a few minutes past the meet time, so anyone late would have to be back briefed. For starters, I want to thank you all for coming! This is a bit awkward given the circumstances. I'll start with the good news...Kamisama knows we need some right now. I'm sure you are all anxious to know but we have received the green light today from our sponsors to proceed with filming." A round of applause and cheers from the team erupted from the news.

"Unfortunately, we lost a talented member of the team. Hanazawa-san's skill was superior to none when it came to historical design. It would be some tough shoes to fill, but I have high regard for the talent on our team. I want to extend this out to everyone here. I don't care if you are a lowly gopher or a top-paid actor. You are all important to the success of this production. To us…," he emphasized, gesturing between himself and Kuresaki. "You are all invaluable. So I can't stress this enough...if you are having any hardship at work or home, please come forward. I don't want the same mistakes to be repeated. And if you see something suspicious, I implore you all to please speak up. I am guilty of this act myself. I couldn't believe my adorable niece was capable of such horrific acts. We think we know a person and they just..." He trailed off, still in a little shock from the information he was privy to concerning his niece.

"Jouji..." Kuresaki whispered by his side, trying to get his friend to focus.

"Ah right! That's all I wanted to say today. I appreciate all of you showing up. If you don't have any work assignments tonight, you will be receiving an email from the scheduler. We will start fresh tomorrow morning. So those of you that can, please enjoy the rest of your evening. I'm afraid you won't have some free time for a while. Thank you for your hard work and dedication!" The crowd responded enthusiastically and clapped for him. A good portion of the stage crew remained behind to prepare for tomorrow.

"Kyoko-chan, since we have all this time now, would you like to have a bite with us? I plan on inviting Ric-san. I don't think he needs to be alone right now," Koga asked with pleading eyes. "I'm sure Ric-san will appreciate it. We can't invite Asahina-san though. I don't think Ric-san cares for her company."

"Asahina-san? Why?" Kyoko blurted, surprised. She thought the actress was pretty and performed well with a kind personality that people, especially, men loved.

"Something about an invasion of privacy..." he answered, waving his hand to brush off the topic. "Pleeeeaaase," he begged, holding his palms together. "I think you can help me make him feel better."

Kyoko sighed, staring at the hopeless form rooted in the dark spot. "Fine, but I get to choose the place. I don't want to hear any complaints!"

"Yes! Okay, I'll go let Ric-san know."

Kyoko giggled watching Koga bound away like a little boy to inform his friend.

"Father, is it okay if we go there?" Kyoko asked, turning to address Tadashi.

"Of course, sweetheart. I was planning on swinging by for take-out, but now that we have time, I'm sure they would be happy to see you are well," Tadashi smiled. He knew exactly where she wanted to go.

"Kyoko-san! Morimoto-san! Can we please have a moment of your time?" Kuresaki called out to them. Tadashi and Kyoko turned at the producer's voice. Kyoko bowed once Kuresaki and Jouji were in front of them.

"Kyoko-san, we owe you a sincere apology," Jouji began and he, along with Kuresaki, gave her a very formal bow.

"Morizumi-san, Kuresaki-san, please. I appreciate the apology, but you don't need to," Kyoko sputtered. It felt wrong to have her superiors bowing to her.

"No, Kyoko-san, it is necessary. We failed to fulfill our part of the contract. We did not ensure your safety while you were in our care. For that, we deeply apologize to you and you as well Morimoto-san," Kuresaki told them. The two men bowed again.

"Thank you both," Tadashi cut in, bowing to the two men. "I will leave my daughter in your care once more."

"Yes, thank you. We will learn well from our mistakes," Kuresaki assured him.

"We want to also thank you for intervening on our behalf Morimoto-san. We had a meeting before this with Koenji-san. It is thanks to you that we can continue," Kuresaki said bowing again.

"I didn't do much. I know how hard you have all worked to ensure this film's success. I am looking forward to the result of everyone's effort," Tadashi told them with another slight bow.

"Kyoko-san," Jouji began and fell into a dogeza. "What my niece has put you through is inexcusable. Allow me to be the first of the Morizumi family to express our deepest apologies. As her Uncle, I am also held accountable for her actions. I guiltily doted on her far too much that I created a monster. I am not asking for your forgiveness or your mercy. I just wanted to selfishly make myself feel better and apologize."

"Director Morizumi-san, please I beg you," Kyoko hissed and crouched awkwardly so as not to draw too much attention to them. Her effort was futile since those left on the site were staring at them, wondering what was going on. Kyoko helped the man to his feet.

"I think it's time we get back to work, Jouji," Kuresaki stated in his monotone voice. They bowed one last time before turning their attention to the set.

When they were out of earshot, Kyoko turned to Tadashi. "Father, was the film on the verge of getting canceled?"

Tadashi gave her a guilty look, "Koenji-san was ready to cut his losses. All I did was share my experiences on the set with him. It didn't take much to convince him to change his mind. I'm sure he wasn't too keen on the idea either."

Kyoko threw her arms around her father. "Thank you," she exclaimed. She was so happy to have him in her life. Tadashi chuckled, hugging her back. He would do anything to protect her happiness.

"Come on, let's go. It seems your friends are waiting," Tadashi said, pulling away from her. They headed towards Koga, his manager, Cedric, and his translator/manager.

...

Hi, how is work? I'm on my way to dinner at the Darumaya with Father and...don't get mad, Koga-san and Bennett-san. Think you can join us? Kyoko hit the send button.

A few minutes later her phone chimed, I hate contract negotiations the most about this job...Unfortunately, I'm stuck! I'd rather be with you. I'm not mad. If anything, I'm a bit disappointed that I'm unable to see Taisho giving those two a hard time.

Her phone chimed again. I'm glad I can't have dinner with you. Taisho would skin me alive for the Heel siblings. Maybe I'll wait until his anger has simmered a bit then beg for his forgiveness.

Kyoko paled as she read his last text. She had forgotten all about the Heel siblings even though tonight's job was part of it. Taisho could barely look at her when she first dyed her hair. How would he treat her now that he knew she was behind Setsuka?

I forgot! She typed back.

I have to head back in but don't worry. He'll come around. I'll see you tonight. I love you! *kiss kaomoji*

Do your best! I love you! *blowing kiss kaomoji, beating hearts, sparkles*

Tadashi smiled at his daughter as she giggled at her phone. They were almost to the restaurant. He had sent an important email of his own to Mya during their commute and hoped she would think his idea was a good one.

…

The group that walked down the street towards the Darumaya looked very suspicious. They wore hats and sunglasses to disguise themselves, but all it did was heighten everyone's curiosity about their commanding presence. Passersby couldn't help but follow them with their gazes as they walked up to the pair standing in front of the small traditional Japanese restaurant. Kyoko was glad that there didn't appear to be any paparazzi buzzing around disturbing her ex-landlords. When they entered, the whole restaurant went silent, stunned by the appearance of so many celebrities.

One inebriated loyal customer, whom Kyoko was familiar with, broke the silence. "Kyoko-chan, my dearie! Did you trade in that tall good looking guy for two lesser ones?" His friend on the stool next to him slapped him upside the head. The customers in the restaurant laughed and returned to their business. They knew Taisho didn't tolerate that kind of behavior and wouldn't hesitate to refuse them service.

Ouch! Koga grimaced at the burn directed at him. Cedric chuckled and shook it off.

"Kyoko-chan, it's so good to see you well," Okami-san greeted, taking Kyoko into her warm embrace. "And you as well Morimoto-san," she added with a graceful bow.

"Please don't be so formal. You'll always have a home here," Okami assured her. Kyoko thanked her and introduced the rest of her party. Before Kyoko followed Okami down the hall, she stopped to pay her respects to Taisho. She was relieved when he gave her his usual greeting and grunted in acknowledgment. Kyoko happily went down to the private room where Okami had settled her friends. They were already looking over the menu while Okami took their drink orders.

"I'll help!" Kyoko offered, following Okami out of the room. She wanted to spend some time with the couple while she was there. Kyoko entered Taisho's space and found him already plating his signature fish dish.

"Dear! You have to stop doing this," Okami scolded. Taisho feigned innocence and gestured for Kyoko to follow him with the other plate. Kyoko pressed her lips together trying to hide her smile. Ren already understood how Taisho operated. She wished she could capture this moment to share with him, but knew it would be too rude. Kyoko would just have to observe them properly to reenact their expressions for him later.

Koga and Cedric both looked confused when the plates were set before them.

"I'm sorry, sir, we didn't order this. Perhaps you have the wrong table," Koga said politely, trying to hand the plate back.

"Please have a meal!" Taisho growled, glaring at Japan's number two actor. Koga's eyes went wide with fear. He nodded, hastily picking up his chopsticks and pulling a portion of the fish skin back to take a bite. Koga smiled up at Taisho, "Mmm, delicious."

Taisho nodded approvingly. Then turned to Cedric. The American lifted his chopsticks but hesitated as he got close to the fish. He turned his head up to Taisho and knew how to say what he needed in Japanese. It was one of his usual phrases, "Can I have a fork, please?" The bleak look on Taisho's face told him that was a faux pas.

"I'll be fine," Cedric said, feeling the sweat pool at his hairline and proceeding with his chopsticks. Taisho left the room with Kyoko.

"Dude, I've seen you eat fine with chopsticks. What gives?" Koga asked. Cedric's Japanese was improving every day but he turned to his translator for help. He could read it better than understand conversation depending on the speed of the speaker or their use of slang. Koga had the habit of using a lot of slang so it took Cedric a while to dissect his words.

"Fish with chopsticks takes too long," Cedric grumbled, holding up a morsel of fish pinched between his sticks.

Koga laughed and continued eating. He had no clue why he was eating this fish when all he wanted was some meat. Once again, they even left without taking their order.

Koga stopped eating when he realized the others didn't have any food. He put his chopsticks down and apologized.

"Oh no, don't worry about it. Please eat your meal. The food here is delicious. I'm sure Kyoko-chan will bring us some good stuff," Tadashi assured him. Just then Okami-san entered with bottles of sake and beer. She refilled their water glasses before leaving with the promise of bringing them something to nibble on.

Meanwhile, Kyoko stood quietly in the kitchen next to Taisho attending to her workstation. She was chopping the ingredients needed to cook the main dishes while Taisho prepared the appetizers.

"So is that boy working tonight?" Taisho asked as he expertly sliced up some fish.

Kyoko smiled. He was addressing her like normal. "Yes, he has a meeting for his next drama."

"I will make a bento for him and Yashiro-san."

Kyoko hummed her thanks happily and bowed.

They worked in comfortable silence for a few more minutes until Taisho asked, "And you, how are you? That girl?"

"I'm doing fine. I have a lot of support. Thank you for worrying about me!"

"Please continue to take care, so I don't worry," he told her, turning to meet her gaze. Kyoko bowed again, tears pricking her eyes. "Here, take these now and join your friends."

Kyoko could hear the revelry filtering down the hall. It sounded like Koga was enjoying himself. She came in bearing a tray laden with karaage, steamed and fried gyoza, and a tray of various sushi and sashimi. Another employee brought in soup and salad. Kyoko passed out little plates and served the table as a good hostess. They ate and drank until the main dishes that consisted of noodles, tempura, unagi, fish, beef, various pickled dishes, and rice were served. Everyone was impressed with the meal.

"I can't believe I've never eaten here before. How did you find this place Kyoko-chan?" Koga asked with a mouth full of food.

"This place is like my second home," Kyoko beamed proudly. "The Taisho and Okami gave me a job here before I joined show biz. I try to help out when I can find the time. It's getting harder these days with my schedule."

Koga frowned looking at Tadashi. The man looked a bit embarrassed. He was going to ask another question but Cedric stuffed his mouth with food and gave him a look that told him to shut it. There was obviously some history there that was none of their business.

"Well, the food is delicious, Kyoko-san. I'd like to give my compliments to Taisho, but I think he hates me after my blunder with the fish."

Kyoko laughed, impressed that Cedric had caught on so quickly. "Don't take that to heart. Ren failed the first time too."

"Hah!" Koga exclaimed. He took great joy in knowing there was someone else out there that disliked that guy. "Wow, that Taisho is scary. So we were being tested or something? Do you know if I passed? Is it some rite of passage that every patron needs to go through to eat here?"

"He doesn't give it to customers like that so I'm not too sure of his motives," Kyoko commented cluelessly. Tadashi believed that he used the technique to judge the character of those trying to get close to Kyoko.

When Kyoko had finished eating, she started gathering the dirty dishes and told them she needed to get ready for her next appointment.

"Sho, tonight is your last concert before we head back to Tokyo. The President wants you to stay away from Kyoko-chan. She has a lot of negative press buzzing around her as it is, she doesn't need you to complicate things," Shoko warned, glancing up from her computer to pin him with her no-nonsense gaze.

Shoko could tell he was worried about his childhood friend even though he tried to deny it. His mother still refused to share the girl's phone number with him so he couldn't exactly call her. She had caught him earlier browsing Kyoko's fan site which was a surprise. Sho only ever bothered with his social media page. If he wasn't making music or watching variety shows, she would usually catch him on his site. He loved posting pictures of himself and basking in the glory as fans clamored for the top comment spot. It always amazed her how these girls could respond within milliseconds of his post. She had no clue the internet could work so fast.

"Sho? Did you hear me?"

"Yes, I heard you! Quit nagging," he groaned, exasperated. That stupid girl got herself mixed up in a heap of trouble this time, making him feel useless as usual. There were no other updates beyond this morning's broadcast. A few still shots of her leaving school with that man who claimed to be her father were shared, but that was it.

"Did Asami-san find out if she was accepted the job yet?" Sho asked, thinking that would be his best shot at talking to her again.

"No, Haruki hasn't heard anything. They could be delayed because of everything that's going on over there. I'm sure her manager has his hands full with his problems."

"Tch!" Sho clucked. He'd make her pay the next time he saw her if dared to turn this job down. He would also demand they exchange phone numbers.

AN: Thanks for sticking with me everyone! My mind is stuck on this day right now! So filler, filler! Oh yeah and that damn Shotaro is coming back…XD.

Thank you for reading the last chapter and leaving reviews. I think I have a Guest reviewer with ESP. She/He always knows what I'm thinking with these little hangups I leave behind XD.

Shameless plug: I did the cover art for this story on my drawing tab. I like to think it came out decent enough to put out in public...LOL. It's based on the kitchen scene in Chpt 10.

Until next time, Ja ne! ^_^