Chapter 150: Stalker

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Skip Beat, for if I did, we would see Julie protecting her baby.

Ren spotted Cedric heading in his direction and knew that he couldn't get away without arousing suspicion. He reminded himself that he was Tsuruga Ren. He was a level headed Japanese actor that didn't have any beef with Cedric. The only reason why he was acquainted with the man was that his cute and talented girlfriend co-starred with him. But Ren did have grounds for disliking the guy. It all stemmed back to the Kimiko Morizumi incident. Her obsession with the guy ultimately put his girlfriend in danger. If Yashiro had not been there to save them, he probably would have succumbed to the darkness and gone on a rampage if Kyoko got hurt. He sighed and told himself to let that incident go. Kimiko had some serious issues and he shouldn't hold it against the guy.

He watched out of the corner of his eye as Cedric got delayed by people wanting to chat with him. It gave Ren more than enough time to rearrange his thoughts to one more pleasant. He had seen Cedric in the audience during his final runway walk. Ren had been too preoccupied to notice anyone else but his parents and Tina during the first pass. During his second pass, he was so engrossed with Kyoko that there was no one else but her. To Ren's dismay, Cedric was not alone tonight. His mother, Karina, sat next to him. He pushed the flashbacks of his youth that the woman recently conjured up out of his mind. He couldn't fully place the blame on his failure as a child actor on this woman no matter that she thwarted him whenever they went for the same roles. If he had been stronger mentally, he wouldn't have been easily defeated.

Ren's bad luck didn't end there, sitting next to Karina was Miranda. He had been dreading this sort of scenario, but he knew he was bound to run into more people from his past when he eventually returned. Miranda was an ex-girlfriend. She was among those he slept with when he was young and stupid. She had no clue it was him, but he easily deflected her when she flirted with him by the bar yesterday.

He had no idea Kyoko was watching him so intently when she asked about the redhead as they got ready for bed. She had noticed something was off with his interaction with her. He couldn't recall acting differently than him not being interested in any other woman than his girlfriend, but Kyoko told him his smile gave him away. It also explained the PDA she gave him after he returned with the drinks. She was staking her claim.

He spilled the truth about Miranda and his past relationships. She didn't hold any of it against him. In fact, he was more upset about his promiscuous past than she was. She, yes she, initiated their passionate lovemaking that night to reaffirm how much she truly loved him despite his checkered past. They fell asleep peacefully in each other's embrace and by morning the topic was forgotten.

Ren's attention was pulled away from Cedric's advance to respond to a question regarding the comfortability of the R'Mandy suit he wore. He turned around after answering and was shocked to find Cedric before him in a formal ninety-degree bow.

What the hell is going on?

"Mr. Bennett, what are you doing?" Ren asked, uneasily. They were beginning to draw attention from people nearby. It also didn't help that Cedric was a popular celebrity here. "Please stand up," Ren hissed.

"Tsuruga-san," Cedric addressed him in Japanese. He straightened up to face Ren. "I'm sorry about the misunderstanding with Ms. Kyoko. Please believe me when I say that it was never my intention for things to develop that way when I asked her to participate in the interview."

Ren sighed. So it was about the gossip article this morning. Old Cedric would never have stooped to an apology, but Ren couldn't understand why he was apologizing to him. Had he unknowingly come off hostile because of it?

"Aren't you apologizing to the wrong person?" Ren asked a little too sarcastically.

"Ugh, well," Cedric glanced over in Kyoko's direction. Ren followed his line of sight. She was in conversation with a few people including his parents. He caught his dad's eye and nodded. He hoped that was enough to reassure him that he was fine because he looked pissed.

"She looks busy at the moment and I figured you probably weren't pleased with the news either," Cedric deflected.

Ren would have much rather been with Kyoko and his parents but knew it would be risky standing so close to the pair of them. It would only take one person to see past his disguise for everything to fall apart. Plus, he was still representing R'Mandy.

"I was surprised to see Ms. Kyoko walking out there. I didn't know she was a runway model."

"She's not, but she can be if she wants to," Ren responded warmly. Talking about her always put him at ease. "Unfortunately, Ms. Honoka twisted her ankle backstage so Kyoko was asked to step in and fill her spot."

"Ouch, I hope it's nothing serious," Cedric expressed genuine concern for Honoka which surprised him. "Excuse me a moment." Cedric pulled out his phone and began typing. Ren assumed he was sending a message. He reminded himself to relax and just have an easy conversation. He searched the crowd for Kyoko and found her staring at him this time around. He winked and flashed her a tender smile which she returned with relief. He was doing just fine.

Cedric's phone chirped immediately and a genuine smile crossed his features. "Honoka-san, says her ankle isn't broken, but it is sprained," Cedric relayed and typed out another message. "I'm sorry for being rude. Please give me another moment."

Ren gaped at Cedric's news. He had no idea that the guy was messaging his colleague. The sincere relief and happy expression on Cedric's face was something Ren had never seen before in all the years he had known him. It was strange. Kyoko had mentioned yesterday that Cedric and Honoka were just friends. Had his childhood nemesis really changed? Years of torment still left him skeptical that the tiny seed of doubt still remained.

When Cedric looked up from his phone, Ren's expression was neutral again. "Sorry about that," he smiled, sheepishly.

"It's not a problem."

"So why are you not over there," Cedric asked curiously, glancing in Kyoko's direction. They caught Kyoko staring at them so Cedric waved. Kyoko took that as an invitation, excused herself from the group that had expanded due to the Hizuris presence, and made a beeline straight for them. Ren pursed his lips to keep from laughing as she easily sidestepped people that got in her way. Those fuzzy slippers were working overtime tonight.

"Mr. Bennett, so good of you to make it tonight," Kyoko greeted with an air of grace, acting as if she just didn't juke a waiter carrying a tray full of hors d'oeuvres to reach them. Cedric appeared just as amused by her like him.

"Congratulations, tonight. You put on a hell of a show," Cedric said with a bow.

"Thank you. I feared I would fall flat on my face if it wasn't for Ren's support."

Ren held up his hands in denial, "that was all you, babe."

"He's so modest," Kyoko laughed.

"Now that, I have your attention…"

"Kyoko," Tina cried breathlessly as she joined them. "You're way too fast." She exhaled loudly and smiled. "Hi, Ren." He nodded at her. That uneasiness clawed its way back up his spine. How could he forget about such an ill-fated scenario? He just reunited with Tina, he wasn't sure how she would react if she knew Cedric was the man that pushed her down that fateful night. He was the same man he chased across the street which led to Rick's accident. Ren held his breath.

"Hi, I'm Tina Flores." She held out her hand for Cedric to shake.

"Ric Bennett," he responded and shook her hand. Ren saw the sadness flicker across Tina's face. It was the sound of that name. He had reacted the same way. They didn't seem to know each other. Of course, their paths had never crossed until that night. Would Tina hate him again for not telling her? He technically just let her shake the hand of her assailant and felt wretched inside.

"I know," she said with a giddy laugh. "I just came to say good night." She pulled Kyoko into a tight hug. Ren breathed in shakily. It was good that she was leaving. He would have to find time to tell her the truth before he returned to Japan.

"You're leaving already?" Kyoko pouted cutely. Ren stared at Tina for her response since that face always worked on him. Okay, who was he kidding, every one of her faces worked on him.

"There's still plenty to do before tomorrow night, but I'll see you then okay." She patted Ren on the arm as she left. It was all she could do.

Cedric's eyes trailed after Tina as if trying to remember something then abruptly turned to face Kyoko. He dipped into a ninety-degree bow and began his apology. Kyoko looked at Ren for an explanation. All he could do was shrug resulting in her scowling at him. Cute!

"Mr. Bennett, you have nothing to apologize for!" Kyoko cried. "I'm aware of how the tabloids tend to misconstrue things to sell a story."

"Yes, but you're not even an actress here and you're already a target for unsavory stories because of your association with me."

"Indeed, I didn't like it, but it comes with the job. I plan on making a career out of this, so I'm sure this won't be the last for me."

"Wow, everyone is letting me off easy today," Cedric responded uneasily. Kyoko hummed at his comment.

"Cedric, there you are," Karina called out. "I was wondering where you ran off to after the show. I see you wanted to see Kyoko again," her words were slightly slurred. She had a little too much to drink tonight.

Ren had to count to ten to steady his rising heart rate. Dealing with Cedric was one thing, but now his mother. He didn't know if he could keep himself calm. His worries were immediately dashed as soon as he felt Kyoko's hand slip into his and give it a gentle squeeze.

Cedric eyed his mother suspiciously and moved to stand beside Kyoko. His action conveyed a lot to Ren. It seemed like he was opposing his mother and supporting them. "Sorry, I wanted to congratulate them on a job well done."

"Yes, darling," Karina shockingly addressed Kyoko. "You were remarkable up there. It was like watching a beautiful butterfly emerge from its chrysalis. Absolutely gorgeous." She cupped Kyoko's cheek. His girlfriend subtly pulled away to free herself from the woman's touch. This woman was too touchy-feely for his taste.

Kyoko was stunned. Ren was stunned. Karina had spoken the truth. His girlfriend did a fantastic job of being thrust up there at the last minute.

"You two look adorable together...a little East meets West. Interracial couples are all the rage these days. It was a lot different in my youth," she cackled but stopped when no one else did.

It took them all a moment to realize that she was talking about Kyoko and Cedric.

"Mother, knock it off. Stop believing everything you read in the tabloids. Ms. Kyoko and Mr. Tsuruga are in a committed relationship."

"But how long could that last?" Karina countered with a wry smile. Ren couldn't believe the audacity of the woman. She was still harping on that article.

"Excuse me!"

Everyone turned in the direction of the irate voice to find Julie Hizuri a few steps away from the group. When did his mother get so close without him noticing?

"Is something wrong, Julie?" Karina asked innocently.

"Yes, you" Julie seethed.

The ladies were the epitome of two lionesses squaring each other up ready to pounce. Ren and Cedric moved to try to defuse the situation without bringing attention to the impending altercation. Thankfully everyone was too deep in their conversations to notice. The women never even raised their voices. It was more frightening than any shouting match.

"Mother, let's get you home," Cedric placated, tugging gently on his mother's arm while Ren tried to do the same with Julie. Kyoko stood there dumbfounded. She had never witnessed anything like it before in her life that she soaked up every word and action portrayed by these two fashionistas.

"Me? What on earth could I have possibly done?" Karina asked, pulling out of Cedric's grasp.

"Don't play dumb Karina. It's unbecoming. I overheard you trying to diminish the relationship that my daughter is currently in and pawn her off to your son. Well, over my dead body!"

"Daughter?" Karina gasped in shock. Julie winced at her slip. "Well, that is quite a claim. I didn't know you had another child. Surprisingly, this one is so well behaved compared to the last one," Karina replied, sarcastically.

Julie raised her hand in a motion that indicated she was ready to slap the bitch right out of Karina. Ren instantly gripped her hand and pulled her to face him. He stared deeply into his mother's angry and frustrated eyes. He wanted to hug her and tell her everything would be okay, but he couldn't, not yet.

"Cedric," Ren said with a deadly voice. "Please take your mother home. It seems she's had a little too much to drink."

"Ah, right, sorry," Cedric bowed slightly and pulled his unruly mother toward the exit. Kuu paused on his way toward them and watched Cedric practically drag his mother out. His only saving grace was that she wasn't loud.

"I had to go to the bathroom. What did I miss?" Kuu asked, taking Julie in his arms. "Are you okay, honey," he asked, stroking her back. "Maybe we should go home too and let the kids finish networking," he suggested.

Ren scowled when he saw Cedric pushing his way back through the crowd toward them. "Your mother?" He asked the American actor.

"A friend is taking her home. I couldn't leave things like that. I'm very sorry. She was out of line and I apologize. I can't guarantee it won't happen again, but what can I say," he said with a deep sigh. "She's my mother."

Ren nodded in understanding. Children never did get to choose their parents. He lost count of the number of times he wished he wasn't a Hizuri.

"I'm sorry, Kyoko. I didn't mean to make such a false claim and cause trouble for you," Julie told her. Kyoko held Julie's hand and shook her head.

"I would have been proud to be your daughter, Ms. Julie. Let me go and get you some water."

"I'll get it," Ren and Cedric both volunteered in unison.

Kyoko smiled and shook her head. "No need. I'll be right back." She surveyed the area for the nearest bar. The one close looked to be packed with people four deep. She headed for the one on the other side of the room. Ren watched her until the crowd swallowed her up and he lost sight of her. He looked at his watch. If she wasn't back in a few minutes, he would go after her.

He chose to remain in the shadows watching his little butterfly flutter from one colleague to the next when she finally walked into the party hall. Tonight had been an incredibly proud moment for him as she conquered the catwalk with grace and elegance. It was like she was always meant to be in the limelight. He hung back from approaching her knowing that she was still working. Anything he did would be a distraction so he waited and quietly observed from just outside the social circles.

A glance at his diamond-encrusted designer watch told him he still had several hours before his departure. He had plenty of time since he chartered a private plane this time around. There was no airport security involved. All he had to do was drive up to the tarmac and board his plane. He would give her another half hour for the situation to enter a more social affair.

He stiffened when the older man had approached her with great enthusiasm and swooped her in his arms. The onslaught of jealousy came fast and strong. He recognized that look of pride in his eyes. He bore a similar expression tonight. A stunning blonde woman joined them, hugging Kyoko just as fiercely. His jealousy subsided by the nurturing affection in which this older couple embraced her. One look at Kyoko told him that she was comfortable and happy around them which put him at ease. As he stared, he recognized them as her hosts; the famous Hollywood couple, the Hizuris. Another familiar face joined them as Tina raised her camera to snap a few pictures of the trio. What a small world?

His eyes swept the hall looking for Ren. The young man had disappeared the moment the couple appeared. He continued to wait and watch, brushing off the occasional attractive female that noticed him creeping like a lone wallflower. He glanced at his watch impatiently willing time to move faster. He still had about fifteen minutes left to kill. He stirred his gin and tonic and took a sip then went back to watching. She was gone. His head darted back and forth looking for her when a blur of silver similar to the color of her dress caught his attention. It was only an androgynous-looking man or woman prowling through the crowd.

He was cursing himself as he moved through the crowd to search for her no longer trying to hide. He didn't care anymore if he was found out; however, he hung back when he found her chatting with Ren and Cedric then Tina. The same blur of silver crossed his path again.

He made a move to intercept Tina as she was leaving.

"Tina," he called out with a wave.

"I didn't know you would be here tonight," Tina responded.

"It's a surprise."

"Well, what are you waiting for? I'm sure she would be happy to see you."

"I wanted to say hi to you first. Are you leaving already?"

"Yes, I'm hosting an exhibit at my gallery tomorrow. I feel like I still have a million things to do."

"Well, I won't keep you, but if there's anything you ever need don't hesitate to call me."

"You're already doing so much. Thank you for helping with Rick's case."

"No problem. I hope we can have justice for him soon."

"Yeah," she said, slightly misty-eyed. She perked up and tapped her camera. "Check your email later. I have something good for you."

"Thanks," he screeched, excitedly. He couldn't wait to see the professional shots she had of them. He said goodbye and went back to stalking his favorite person.

He apparently missed something because when he returned to his perfect hiding place both young men were holding a woman. Julie Hizuri looked ready for a fight with eyes blazing. The people nearby went about their business like it was another day in the neighborhood after realizing there was nothing left to see.

Things had settled down after Cedric took the woman away and Kuu joined his wife. Kyoko eventually broke away from the group and headed off into the crowd alone. He stepped out of his spot and followed her. The time allotted to her wasn't up, but he decided this was the perfect moment to let himself be known. He remained about twenty paces behind her, deducing that she was heading to the bar in the far corner. His view of her was blocked when the same blur of silver fell into step behind her. Something about the way the man moved reminded him of a predator hunting its prey. The prey being her.

Glancing around the man, he noticed that Kyoko had reached the far side of the bar that had fewer people gathering around. As he closed the distance, he saw her body shudder. Her head shot up jerking to and fro until it landed on the man in front of him. Just beyond the man, he watched her face crumble. It was all he needed to know. Every fiber in his being blared that this man approaching was not friendly. He put himself in front of the man barring him from going any further. The sinister-looking man smirked and excused himself prepared to step around.

He didn't hesitate. He didn't even think. He grabbed her pursuer by the collar of his leather cloak, swept him off his feet, and slammed him to the floor with a loud thud. He felt the air vacate the man's lungs with a woosh. There were gasps and screams surrounding him, but above all the cacophony, there was one sound he treasured the most.

"Father!" she exclaimed.

AN: Bwahaha I did that and I apologize. Anyone see daddy MoriT appearing in LA? I was trying to be mysterious. There will be more to come on the daddy-daughter duo. Thank you all for sticking with me! I hope you enjoyed it.

Thank you for all the reviews of the last chapter. I truly appreciate hearing from readers.

Until next time, ja ne! ^_^