[Multi-chapter] Change Me - Chapter Seven: The Overprotective Brat
So how are you guys liking the development of this story? Is it too slow or too fast? I just realized that it's already chapter seven and I still have so much to write according to my outline.
Also, on the next update, I might include a new (mini) fic. :D Watch out for it! :)))
This is is unbeta-ed so tell me if there are any errors and mistakes. Comments, suggestions, reactions and criticisms are gladly welcomed. Happy reading! :)
A/N: This fanfic is the third of a five-part series about Arashi's quest on romance. The completed Jun and Sho fics are here and here. It is not a requirement to read the previous ones, you can enjoy each stories without reading the others. :D
Word Count: 2, 056
Chapter Seven
The Overprotective Brat
When Seira wakes up the next morning, she saw that Nino already prepared breakfast. It was rather humble than what her mom prepared every morning, just a freshly brewed coffee and breakfast rolls, but nonetheless, she was glad that he’s being so considerate and nice since last night.
“Ah. Good morning.” Nino looked up from his DS when he heard her footsteps. There’s half-eaten bread in front of him and the coffee maker is already half empty. “I hope you don’t mind that I eat first. I have a schedule in an hour. You were sleeping so soundly, I don’t want to wake you up.”
Seira shakes her head reassuringly. “Not at all. It’s very nice of you to let me sleep in your bed and to prepare me breakfast. I should be thankful.” She sat on the chair opposite him and poured herself a cup of coffee.
“I’ll ask my manager to drop you off your house first before we go on location.” Nino told her, taking a bite on his bread.
Seira shakes her head again. “You don’t need to. I don’t want to trouble you any further and your manager especially.”
“And I don’t want you to walk all the way back home again.” Nino smiled.
She smiled timidly. For a minute she forgot that she’s penniless and the only way to get home without having to walk again is by Nino’s kindness. “Thank you.” That’s all she said and Nino gave her his cheekiest smile.
~~~
Although he’s a bit apprehensive when Nino asked if they can go round Azabu-juban to drop by his lady friend at her house, Nino’s manager still did as he told. He would eye her from the rear view mirror from time to time, making Seira a bit uncomfortable at the back. She found out in the middle of the ride that they’re going out of way just to get her home and apparently, they’re short on time. Nino remains cool unlike his stiff manager, betting that Sakurai Sho will be even late than him.
“Thank you for everything, Nino.” Seira told him gratefully once they reach her house.
Nino went out of the car to escort her to their gate, making his manager glare at him from the driver’s seat.
“So I guess I’ll see you later.” Nino told her, taking his own time.
Seira raised an eyebrow. She doesn’t know anything about later.
“Yuji-kun invited me to go this restaurant opening.” Nino filled her in. “Your best friend’s restaurant? What is it called again? Taverna or something…”
Seira snaps her fingers. “Ah! Saki-chan’s opening. I didn’t know you’d be able to come.”
“I think I can come later, after the drama filming.” Nino said. “I’ll try to bring Sho-chan as well. That guy loves looking for new places to eat. Food is his only hobby.” He laughs.
Seira smiled. From the corner of her eyes, she can see his manager looking edgy at them. “See you, then. I’ll be expecting Sakurai-san as well.” She pressed on the doorbell. “Would you not be late for your filming? He’s looking a bit worried, you know.” She points at his manager.
Nino chuckled. “I’ll guess I go now before that guy explodes!” He walks back to the car and waved his hand on her before entering. “See you later!”
“See you!” Seira waves her hand. “Thanks again!”
Nino pokes his head out of the window and smiled while waving his hand in the air. Seira happily watched the car accelerates away from her.
Once she went inside the house, she was surprised to see her father is still at home, sitting on the living room. From the looks of it, he is waiting for her to come back. She tried to ignore him by walking straight to the stairs but her father’s dominating voice stopped her tracks.
“We have to talk, Seira.” Kichirou said, staying cool. “I wouldn’t ask you where you spent the night nor would I get mad at you for storming out of the house last night. I just think that it’s about time we talk.”
Seira turned around to face him, still not moving an inch from the first step of their stairs. “If you’re just going to lecture me about how I should value money and to get a job-”
“I’m thinking retiring soon.” He cuts her off, making Seira gape in shock at what he just said. “Actually, I was thinking of retiring since two years ago but I forego of that thought until both you and Yuji are financially stable enough.”
Seira can feel her father looking at her but she can only stare at her feet. “By retiring, you mean acting?”
“Acting, yes… The company, in a few years.”
He’s been actively acting for over forty years and Seira doesn’t get why he want to retire now. As for the company, it’s still relatively young and surely, it desperately still needs her father’s guidance.
“Why?” That’s what she’s been dying to ask.
“I wanted to spend more time with the family, your mother especially.” Kichirou explained. “You know how I’ve been busy since you were young, since I married your mother. I admit that I didn’t have enough time for you guys in the past. That’s why I want to retire early, while I’m still young and kicking… Maybe now that I’m retired, your mother and I can go travel the world already.” He chuckled happily.
“I wonder why you’re so lenient with Mom, she’s more luxurious than I am.” Seira bluntly said as she walks to the sofa. “I never ask you to gift me with a tour around the world.” She said sarcastically.
“She’s my wife and you’re my daughter. That’s two different things.” Kichirou pointed out.
“Now my wish is find a future husband who’ll give me all the things I want.” Seira commented.
Her father laughed and momentarily they were in silence.
“I know you don’t want to work for the company, Seira.” Kichirou gently puts in. “But sooner or later, you will take over the management along with your brother. I wouldn’t trust it with anyone other than my children.”
“You can give everything to Yuji…” Seira softly said, almost a whisper. She may not have found what she really wanted to do yet but she is sure that she wanted no part in her parent’s company or the entertainment industry.
“And you?” Kichirou raised a questioning eyebrow.
“I can figure out things along the way…” Seira answered, unsure.
“I cannot accept that answer.” Kichirou said.
Seira sighed. “I want to do what I want.”
“And what do you want?”
“I don’t know yet. But the company is not it, I’m sure of that, Dad.”
“Seira.” Kichirou reaches her hand for a squeeze. “You’re afraid to take chances that’s why until now, you still haven’t found whatever it is you’re looking for.”
He is true about that but Seira is not as gutsy as her brother. She have a faint heart and she hates being rejected.
“I know that, you don’t have to remind me, Dad.” She replied dispiritedly. She knows about her weakness but somehow, all she does is to just accept it and not do anything.
Kichirou smiled tenderly at his daughter. “All I want is to see you and Yuji successful, in whatever path you choose. Your brother is doing very well, Seira. That leaves me to you…”
Seira stares at her trembling hands in her father’s grip. “You will, Dad. I promise.” She mumbled, feeling the pressure once again.
~~~
When Nino and Sho arrived at the restaurant opening, people are starting fill the place, there are even a few groups outside waiting to get a seat. Good thing they have VIP entries, thanks to Yuji. The restaurant was rather modest with its white brick walls and blue windows compared to the other establishments along the lively street. But what stands out the most about this place is the homey feeling the moment you lay eyes on its laidback exterior.
They were on their way inside when Nino overheard a conversation that made him stop his tracks.
“She’s Takasugi Kichirou’s daughter, a perfect catch.” A guy said. From the way he talks with arrogance, it seems like he couldn’t care less if people overheard him.
“And what are you planning to with her? Are you going to make her one of your trophy girlfriends?” Another guy asked.
Nino and Sho exchanged a look. They hang around inconspicuously as they eavesdrop at the conversation.
The arrogant guy chuckled. “No doubt she’s pretty, although a bit short but that’s okay, her face makes up for it. Besides that, she’s got money and power. Didn’t she say that she spent a few years in America? A girl like her is easy to get, liberated and all that.” The two guys laughed raucously.
Nino is clenching his jaw with what he just heard and before he can do anything on the two guys, Sho pulled him inside.
“Come on. Let’s look for Seira-chan.” Sho wrapped a protective arm around Nino’s shoulders.
But before they can even roam their eyes for any sight of Seira, Yuji saw them instantly.
“You guys! Why are you this late?” Yuji called from the long table on the far corner of the restaurant.
On the table are Yuji, Ito Kenta, Oguri Shun and two girls they didn’t know.
“Where’s Matsujun?” Nino instantly asked at the sight of Oguri Shun. “It’s weird to see you without him.” He added. Sho already seated opposite Shun but Nino remained standing, his eyes are still roaming around the room.
“That lovesick fool has other plans with his girlfriend.” Shun answered rather coldly.
“Are you jealous?” Nino asked and finally sat down beside Sho but his eyes are still wandering around.
Shun clicked his tongue. “That guy is different when he’s in love.”
Nino and Sho laughed quietly. Jun is really picky with girls but once he found someone he really likes, his whole world will revolve around her.
“Saki-chan!” Yuji’s voice echoed as he stood up from his seat to approach the girl he just called.
The girl Yuji called Saki-chan welcomed them with a warm smile as she stop at their table.
“This is Saki, she’s the owner of this place.” Yuji informed the two latecomers as they stood from their seat and exchanges polite bows. “I’m sure you know them, Saki-chan. No need for introduction.” Yuji grinned as Sho and Nino humbly shake their heads.
“Of course.” Saki smiled gratefully. “I’m glad you can make it, Ninomiya-san, Sakurai-san.”
In the other corner of the room, Nino finally spotted Seira. Talking with some group of friends and two of them are the guys earlier. She’s happily chatting and laughing with them. Subtle body movements suggested that the arrogant guy from earlier is flirting with her, he would lean towards her whenever he would speak, whispering it to her ears.
Watching Seira totally kept Nino away from whatever Saki is telling them.
“Dinner should be served in a few minutes. Please excuse me.” Saki retained her warm smile as she took her leave.
Nino quickly strides off the where Seira is and clueless Sho followed along not knowing what to do.
“Why don’t you join out table, Seira-san?” The arrogant guy suggested.
But before Seira can answer, Nino comes barging into their conversation. “Seira.” He called her with assertiveness.
“Nino.” Seira smiled upon seeing him. “Sakurai-san.” She added when she saw Sho behind.
“Aren’t you joining us in our table?” Nino asked firmly.
Seira glances at arrogant guy and declined. “I’m sorry but I came with my friends.”
The arrogant guy nods his head. “That’s fine but you owe me a drink later, yes?” His smile gives off an annoying almost creeper vibe.
“Okay.” Seira answered positively.
Nino was serious and uptight in the entire encounter with that arrogant opportunist. He even put an authoritative arm around her shoulders as they walk to their seats.
He feels like he should protect her after hearing her cry last night. Seira is going through something right now and she doesn’t need another problem like that opportunist who only wanted her beauty and power. A girl like her deserves so much more.
Also, on the next update, I might include a new (mini) fic. :D Watch out for it! :)))
This is is unbeta-ed so tell me if there are any errors and mistakes. Comments, suggestions, reactions and criticisms are gladly welcomed. Happy reading! :)
A/N: This fanfic is the third of a five-part series about Arashi's quest on romance. The completed Jun and Sho fics are here and here. It is not a requirement to read the previous ones, you can enjoy each stories without reading the others. :D
Word Count: 2, 056
Chapter Seven
The Overprotective Brat
When Seira wakes up the next morning, she saw that Nino already prepared breakfast. It was rather humble than what her mom prepared every morning, just a freshly brewed coffee and breakfast rolls, but nonetheless, she was glad that he’s being so considerate and nice since last night.
“Ah. Good morning.” Nino looked up from his DS when he heard her footsteps. There’s half-eaten bread in front of him and the coffee maker is already half empty. “I hope you don’t mind that I eat first. I have a schedule in an hour. You were sleeping so soundly, I don’t want to wake you up.”
Seira shakes her head reassuringly. “Not at all. It’s very nice of you to let me sleep in your bed and to prepare me breakfast. I should be thankful.” She sat on the chair opposite him and poured herself a cup of coffee.
“I’ll ask my manager to drop you off your house first before we go on location.” Nino told her, taking a bite on his bread.
Seira shakes her head again. “You don’t need to. I don’t want to trouble you any further and your manager especially.”
“And I don’t want you to walk all the way back home again.” Nino smiled.
She smiled timidly. For a minute she forgot that she’s penniless and the only way to get home without having to walk again is by Nino’s kindness. “Thank you.” That’s all she said and Nino gave her his cheekiest smile.
~~~
Although he’s a bit apprehensive when Nino asked if they can go round Azabu-juban to drop by his lady friend at her house, Nino’s manager still did as he told. He would eye her from the rear view mirror from time to time, making Seira a bit uncomfortable at the back. She found out in the middle of the ride that they’re going out of way just to get her home and apparently, they’re short on time. Nino remains cool unlike his stiff manager, betting that Sakurai Sho will be even late than him.
“Thank you for everything, Nino.” Seira told him gratefully once they reach her house.
Nino went out of the car to escort her to their gate, making his manager glare at him from the driver’s seat.
“So I guess I’ll see you later.” Nino told her, taking his own time.
Seira raised an eyebrow. She doesn’t know anything about later.
“Yuji-kun invited me to go this restaurant opening.” Nino filled her in. “Your best friend’s restaurant? What is it called again? Taverna or something…”
Seira snaps her fingers. “Ah! Saki-chan’s opening. I didn’t know you’d be able to come.”
“I think I can come later, after the drama filming.” Nino said. “I’ll try to bring Sho-chan as well. That guy loves looking for new places to eat. Food is his only hobby.” He laughs.
Seira smiled. From the corner of her eyes, she can see his manager looking edgy at them. “See you, then. I’ll be expecting Sakurai-san as well.” She pressed on the doorbell. “Would you not be late for your filming? He’s looking a bit worried, you know.” She points at his manager.
Nino chuckled. “I’ll guess I go now before that guy explodes!” He walks back to the car and waved his hand on her before entering. “See you later!”
“See you!” Seira waves her hand. “Thanks again!”
Nino pokes his head out of the window and smiled while waving his hand in the air. Seira happily watched the car accelerates away from her.
Once she went inside the house, she was surprised to see her father is still at home, sitting on the living room. From the looks of it, he is waiting for her to come back. She tried to ignore him by walking straight to the stairs but her father’s dominating voice stopped her tracks.
“We have to talk, Seira.” Kichirou said, staying cool. “I wouldn’t ask you where you spent the night nor would I get mad at you for storming out of the house last night. I just think that it’s about time we talk.”
Seira turned around to face him, still not moving an inch from the first step of their stairs. “If you’re just going to lecture me about how I should value money and to get a job-”
“I’m thinking retiring soon.” He cuts her off, making Seira gape in shock at what he just said. “Actually, I was thinking of retiring since two years ago but I forego of that thought until both you and Yuji are financially stable enough.”
Seira can feel her father looking at her but she can only stare at her feet. “By retiring, you mean acting?”
“Acting, yes… The company, in a few years.”
He’s been actively acting for over forty years and Seira doesn’t get why he want to retire now. As for the company, it’s still relatively young and surely, it desperately still needs her father’s guidance.
“Why?” That’s what she’s been dying to ask.
“I wanted to spend more time with the family, your mother especially.” Kichirou explained. “You know how I’ve been busy since you were young, since I married your mother. I admit that I didn’t have enough time for you guys in the past. That’s why I want to retire early, while I’m still young and kicking… Maybe now that I’m retired, your mother and I can go travel the world already.” He chuckled happily.
“I wonder why you’re so lenient with Mom, she’s more luxurious than I am.” Seira bluntly said as she walks to the sofa. “I never ask you to gift me with a tour around the world.” She said sarcastically.
“She’s my wife and you’re my daughter. That’s two different things.” Kichirou pointed out.
“Now my wish is find a future husband who’ll give me all the things I want.” Seira commented.
Her father laughed and momentarily they were in silence.
“I know you don’t want to work for the company, Seira.” Kichirou gently puts in. “But sooner or later, you will take over the management along with your brother. I wouldn’t trust it with anyone other than my children.”
“You can give everything to Yuji…” Seira softly said, almost a whisper. She may not have found what she really wanted to do yet but she is sure that she wanted no part in her parent’s company or the entertainment industry.
“And you?” Kichirou raised a questioning eyebrow.
“I can figure out things along the way…” Seira answered, unsure.
“I cannot accept that answer.” Kichirou said.
Seira sighed. “I want to do what I want.”
“And what do you want?”
“I don’t know yet. But the company is not it, I’m sure of that, Dad.”
“Seira.” Kichirou reaches her hand for a squeeze. “You’re afraid to take chances that’s why until now, you still haven’t found whatever it is you’re looking for.”
He is true about that but Seira is not as gutsy as her brother. She have a faint heart and she hates being rejected.
“I know that, you don’t have to remind me, Dad.” She replied dispiritedly. She knows about her weakness but somehow, all she does is to just accept it and not do anything.
Kichirou smiled tenderly at his daughter. “All I want is to see you and Yuji successful, in whatever path you choose. Your brother is doing very well, Seira. That leaves me to you…”
Seira stares at her trembling hands in her father’s grip. “You will, Dad. I promise.” She mumbled, feeling the pressure once again.
~~~
When Nino and Sho arrived at the restaurant opening, people are starting fill the place, there are even a few groups outside waiting to get a seat. Good thing they have VIP entries, thanks to Yuji. The restaurant was rather modest with its white brick walls and blue windows compared to the other establishments along the lively street. But what stands out the most about this place is the homey feeling the moment you lay eyes on its laidback exterior.
They were on their way inside when Nino overheard a conversation that made him stop his tracks.
“She’s Takasugi Kichirou’s daughter, a perfect catch.” A guy said. From the way he talks with arrogance, it seems like he couldn’t care less if people overheard him.
“And what are you planning to with her? Are you going to make her one of your trophy girlfriends?” Another guy asked.
Nino and Sho exchanged a look. They hang around inconspicuously as they eavesdrop at the conversation.
The arrogant guy chuckled. “No doubt she’s pretty, although a bit short but that’s okay, her face makes up for it. Besides that, she’s got money and power. Didn’t she say that she spent a few years in America? A girl like her is easy to get, liberated and all that.” The two guys laughed raucously.
Nino is clenching his jaw with what he just heard and before he can do anything on the two guys, Sho pulled him inside.
“Come on. Let’s look for Seira-chan.” Sho wrapped a protective arm around Nino’s shoulders.
But before they can even roam their eyes for any sight of Seira, Yuji saw them instantly.
“You guys! Why are you this late?” Yuji called from the long table on the far corner of the restaurant.
On the table are Yuji, Ito Kenta, Oguri Shun and two girls they didn’t know.
“Where’s Matsujun?” Nino instantly asked at the sight of Oguri Shun. “It’s weird to see you without him.” He added. Sho already seated opposite Shun but Nino remained standing, his eyes are still roaming around the room.
“That lovesick fool has other plans with his girlfriend.” Shun answered rather coldly.
“Are you jealous?” Nino asked and finally sat down beside Sho but his eyes are still wandering around.
Shun clicked his tongue. “That guy is different when he’s in love.”
Nino and Sho laughed quietly. Jun is really picky with girls but once he found someone he really likes, his whole world will revolve around her.
“Saki-chan!” Yuji’s voice echoed as he stood up from his seat to approach the girl he just called.
The girl Yuji called Saki-chan welcomed them with a warm smile as she stop at their table.
“This is Saki, she’s the owner of this place.” Yuji informed the two latecomers as they stood from their seat and exchanges polite bows. “I’m sure you know them, Saki-chan. No need for introduction.” Yuji grinned as Sho and Nino humbly shake their heads.
“Of course.” Saki smiled gratefully. “I’m glad you can make it, Ninomiya-san, Sakurai-san.”
In the other corner of the room, Nino finally spotted Seira. Talking with some group of friends and two of them are the guys earlier. She’s happily chatting and laughing with them. Subtle body movements suggested that the arrogant guy from earlier is flirting with her, he would lean towards her whenever he would speak, whispering it to her ears.
Watching Seira totally kept Nino away from whatever Saki is telling them.
“Dinner should be served in a few minutes. Please excuse me.” Saki retained her warm smile as she took her leave.
Nino quickly strides off the where Seira is and clueless Sho followed along not knowing what to do.
“Why don’t you join out table, Seira-san?” The arrogant guy suggested.
But before Seira can answer, Nino comes barging into their conversation. “Seira.” He called her with assertiveness.
“Nino.” Seira smiled upon seeing him. “Sakurai-san.” She added when she saw Sho behind.
“Aren’t you joining us in our table?” Nino asked firmly.
Seira glances at arrogant guy and declined. “I’m sorry but I came with my friends.”
The arrogant guy nods his head. “That’s fine but you owe me a drink later, yes?” His smile gives off an annoying almost creeper vibe.
“Okay.” Seira answered positively.
Nino was serious and uptight in the entire encounter with that arrogant opportunist. He even put an authoritative arm around her shoulders as they walk to their seats.
He feels like he should protect her after hearing her cry last night. Seira is going through something right now and she doesn’t need another problem like that opportunist who only wanted her beauty and power. A girl like her deserves so much more.