Hatsukoi Limited - Chapter One (part 2)
( Part 2 )
Year 2016.
It took Kame ten years before he had gathered his courage to come back to Japan. If it was his choice, he wouldn’t come back here at all! It was only because he wanted to bring Nao back home and bury her next to the real Kanzaki Hiroto.
Kame lighted incense sticks and clapped his hands three times. He started praying for the dead souls of Hiroto and Nao, apologizing to them for taking this long to have their ashes reunited. After what seemed like hours, Kame finally left the cemetery.
He left Seiya with Yuusuke in Canada because his little girl had piano lessons during the short winter break. Yuusuke, who had been a great help in taking care of things around the shop and their little household, had become his intimate friend. They sometimes shared beds during those nights when Kame felt lonely.
Whenever they tried to label what relationship they have with each other, they can never arrive with a name. They were friends... however, they were definitely more than just friends but they are definitely not lovers. Yuusuke, during the last ten years they spent together, had a few relationships; all of which ended badly. Whenever his relationships ended, there was always Kame beside him, helping him to pick up the pieces of his shattered heart.
After Nao died, Kame once dated a lady when Seiya was about three years old. She was one of those ladies he met when he went clubbing with Yuusuke. She was really sweet to Seiya and she hinted greatly that she was good with kids, making Kame believe that she was the right woman to become Seiya’s stepmother. Their relationship ended only after six months of dating when Kame made the fatal mistake of making the woman take care of Seiya one afternoon when he headed out to restock the shop’s cupboards. Yuusuke was doing the deliveries that day so Kame had no choice but to leave his daughter in her care. Seiya, because of her age, was playful and curious. She walked around the shop until she wandered outside of the shop and into the road where she was hit by a car. Because that woman was really not paying attention to his daughter whenever he was not around, and she really wasn’t fond of her in anyway as what she disclosed after they broke up, Seiya ended up in the emergency room and almost lost her life because of that accident.
Yuusuke was there to help Kame, just like how Kame was there to help him. They were more than friends but not exactly lovers. Whatever it is they have, they both can understand one thing: they are not lovers and because of that, they will never be separated from each other.[3]
Kame was walking around Tokyo leisurely, his feet making all the decision where he was headed. He was surprised to find himself standing on the very same park where he and Jin used to walk Pin and Ran... the very same park where everything started falling apart for him and Jin.
He slowly roamed his eyes around and his gaze settled on a family of eight: four boys, two girls, the wife... and the husband.
“Jin?” Kame unconsciously barked out. He covered his mouth and turned around. Thankfully, nobody paid heed to what he was doing or saying. The people passing by were too busy with their own lives to pay attention to him. He hurriedly went to hide in an old oak tree to spy on his old... friend.
He watched as Jin scooped two of his daughters into his arms and playfully turned around. The happy squeals they made Kame’s heart twinge. He heard the woman scolding Jin to put the girls down. Jin placed the girls down on the ground with a big pout but grinned afterwards when his four boys took the opportunity to drag him to the field and play soccer.
Jin kicked the ball around for the boys to go after and Kame felt even more hurt the more he watched the scene.
“So this was your answer, Jin.” He said. “I guess... goodbye was your answer.” He said with a bitter smile pasted on his face. “You never did try to find me, did you? You were probably just glad that I went away so you can have this big of a family... the family that you’ve always wanted.” With heavy steps, he slowly turned around, not before wishing the man he thought to be his life mate... happiness with his big family.
He was sad but he got his own family now, composed of Seiya and Yuusuke. Those two will never hurt him, unlike what Jin had done to him. They were Kame’s everything and he’ll do everything to keep his family happy and fulfilled.
-----
Year 2021.
“What?” Jin exclaimed on the phone. “You think you’ve found a trail of Kame? After all these years of being unable to do so?”
The private investigator scratched his head. “I think we have a lead on it. I have another client who was looking for his long lost brother. He wishes to speak with you.”
“What does this have to do with Kamenashi Kazuya?” Jin’s brows furrowed.
“We can talk about it in person. Are you free to meet us in an hour?”
“Yes, but only for two hours.” Jin said after checking his schedule. “I have a parent-teacher conference to attend for Mamoru[4] and I’ll be damned if I don’t show up there today. You don’t think it’ll take that long, do you?”
“No, I don’t think it will. My client is straightforward. I’m sure it’ll be over in a jiffy.”
“Okay. So where do you want us to meet?”
After they’ve discussed the details, Jin headed out of the Jimusho. After KAT-TUN’s official suspension, the group has never been reinstated. Even when they were attending shows, they no longer associate each member as a KAT-TUN member after a year of not doing group activities. They were only Akanishi Jin, Taguchi Junnosuke, Tanaka Koki, Ueda Tatsuya and Nakamaru Yuichi with no band affiliation.
It was sad. When that happened, it was as if it was fully official that they will no longer become a group again. Not until they find Kame. Their friends gave up on finding Kame after five years of futile attempts. Even Kame’s family members no longer desire to find him. They said Kazuya will show up when he wants to and until then, all they can do is pray for his happiness and good health.
The only people who were still zealous in finding Kame were none other than Johnny-san and Jin. Both men did their best in trying to locate Kamenashi Kazuya but their efforts where fruitless. Johnny-san tried everything he could to get the information out of the lawyer that sent out the request to cancel Kazuya’s contract and paid the damages but it was useless; the man wouldn’t talk a single thing.
But now, after fifteen years of vain attempts to find Kame, he may have a ray of hope this time. This was definitely better than nothing.
Jin sent a mail to Johnny-san. The 91-year-old man retired from the business in 2007 because of his old age. Jin was sure Johnny-san would be pleased to learn that they may have a chance this time of finding Kame.
After sending the mail, his phone vibrated. The screen showed the name of his 15-year old son, Mamoru. He answered the phone with a bright smile on his face. “Yo. What’s up?”
“I just wanted to remind you about the meeting. My homeroom teacher will really kill me this time if you don’t attend this parent-teacher stuff so make sure to come?” Mamoru pleaded with a cracking voice, a result of puberty.
“Hai~ I made sure I didn’t have any tapings or meetings to attend this afternoon so be rest assured that I’ll be there. Okay, kiddo?”
“Thanks dad~! See you later then!”
Jin lightly shook his head in amusement at his son.
-----
The door chimes sounded harshly followed by a bang from the kitchen’s backdoor. Kame and Yuusuke, who were at the shop and served customers, glanced at each other.
“Go.” Yuusuke signaled with his head.
Kame smiled gratefully and went inside. “Seiya, sweetheart?” His not so little girl glared at the closed door. “Is there a problem?” He amusedly asked.
The glare turned into a sweet one when Seiya’s eyes met her dad’s figure. “No, nothing’s the matter.”
“Hm?” Kame gestured for the girl to come forward, which the latter followed. Kame hugged his daughter. “Is it Leisl?” He said, referring to his daughter’s best friend. He felt Seiya nod against his chest.
“That idiot!” Seiya mumbled. “She ditched me again for her boyfriend.”
Kame laughingly ruffled Seiya's hair. “I knew it was about that.”
“You don’t understand Dad!” Seiya bitterly said. “You don’t know how I feel each time she ditches me... and it’s like she doesn’t even know she’s hurting me!”
Kame sighed and leads Seiya to sit on a stool and let her continue speaking.
“She ditches me to spend time with her boyfriend during lunch time, she stopped walking home with after school and this morning, she for left school without me!” Seiya gritted her teeth in anger as Kame consolingly soothed her back. “I was late for school because of her and I got a damned detention on a Friday!” She yelled. “And what’s worse? She didn’t even say sorry to me during lunch. She wouldn’t even give me a time of her day! Well guess what, we’re done with our friendship!”
“Sweetheart, maybe she didn’t mean to do those--”
“No dad, she did mean to do it!”
“Seiya, maybe she has her own reasons why--”
“Are you siding with her?”
“No, I am not.” Kame raised both his hands in surrender. “Just... you’ve been best friends since kindergarten... what you two have is special and it’d be a waste to end it just because of this misunderstanding.”
“I can’t even talk to her dad!”
“I know... maybe just give her time and space for a little while? You do have other friends you can spend time with, right? Leisl just... got her first boyfriend so maybe she’s adjusting dividing her time into two: one with her boyfriend and one with her best friend. I’m sure it’s not an easy thing to do.”
Seiya paused to think. “Fine. But I’ll wait until she decides to talk to me. I am not ever going to approach her at lunch. She made me feel really insulted because she acted like she didn’t even know me.” Seiya said with a pout and tears threatening to fall off her eyes.
“Awww, sweetheart.” Kame gave her another hug. “I’m sure you two will talk this thing out in time.”
Seiya wiped her eyes clear of tears. “Thanks dad.” She gave a quick peck to Kame’s cheeks. “I’m going to change and then come down to help you and Yuu-pops out in the shop.”
“Okay.” Kame smiled and watched her scram off to the second floor. He shook his head and headed out to the shop floor. He saw Yuusuke sitting lazily on the couch in front of the register.
“Was it because of Leisl?” Kame nodded and Yuusuke couldn’t help but laugh. “I knew it. Poor girl. Must have been a big shock to be left alone because her best friend got a boyfriend now.”
“Tell me about it.” Kame sat down next to Yuusuke with a pout. “She was ranting at the kitchen but I guess we really can’t blame her.” He rested his head on Yuusuke’s right shoulder. “Today’s a Friday. Are you going out tonight?”
“I haven’t decided.” Yuusuke sighed. “It’s getting tiring you know... going out and going home alone.”
Kame laughed. “Any news on when Chikage is coming to visit?” He asked, referring to Yuusuke’s current boyfriend.
The taller of the two shrugged. “No news yet. I guess Tachibana’s a bit busy back in Japan and don’t have time to go out of the country.”
Kame giggled. “Chi-san is a bit hopeless without him, huh?”
“Yeah~” Yuusuke replied with a snigger. “But that’s what I love about him.”
Keiichiro Tachibana[5] is Yuusuke’s old friend and high school classmate who he happened to meet after years of estrangement while Kobayakawa Chikage[6] is Keiichiro’s childhood friend and self-named butler/bodyguard. Although they all refer to Chikage as a bodyguard, he really wasn’t. Chikage sucks doing everything except driving for Keiichiro. Technically, they really should start calling him Keiichiro’s driver.
“Maybe you should call him.” Kame suggested with a smile. “I mean, it’s almost... what... six months since you last saw him in person.”
“I’d love to, but I don’t want him to see me as someone clingy and needy. I’ll wait until he comes back to visit me.”
“You think too much. I’m sure Chi-san would love to get a call from you.”
“Hm. Fine, maybe I’ll give him a call later.” Yuusuke mused.
Kame stood up, patted Yuusuke’s shoulder and left to assist the customer who just came in. “Good afternoon. A seat for one?” The customer nodded. Kame smiled as he showed the customer to a nearby table and handed him a menu.
“Are you Kanzaki Hiroto?” the man asked directly as he took the menu in his hands .
“Why yes, I am.” Kame answered with a smile. “What can I do for you?
The man put down the menu and got a business card out of his suit pocket. “My name’s Richard Moore,[7] a private investigator.”
Kame hesitantly reached out to get the card.
“Look, I’ll go straight to the point. My client is your long lost brother.” He turned around, seeing that there were a lot of customers that could overhear their conversation. “Do you mind bringing me somewhere private? I don’t think you’d appreciate everyone in the shop accidentally hearing our conversation.”
Kame scratched his head. “Um, but this is rush hour--” he started when he saw Seiya coming out of the kitchen with a sweet smile on her face. “Okay, my daughter’s here so I guess I can take you to our living quarters.” He called the attention of Seiya and Yuusuke. “We... uh, have important matters to discuss. Seiya, make sure you help your Pops around the shop, okay?” Both nodded their understanding. “Okay, uh, Mr. Moore, this way please.”
When they were fully settled on the living room, Richard Moore continued speaking. “As I was saying, my client is looking for you Hiroto, your long lost brother named Shizuku[8]. We believe you were too young to remember him and your parents’ divorce. Now that your dad is dead, you will need to come back home to Japan and manage the assets you inherited you’re your father.” Moore said seriously. “While I was looking for you, we came across this information. We found out that Hiroto died sixteen years ago but we found immigration papers stating the otherwise... that Hiroto flew here in Canada and has been living here for the past 15 years.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, as you can see, I’m here alive.” Kame tried to reason out, his heart threatening to stop beating from the tension.
Richard Moore just raised an eyebrow at the younger man. “Say what you will. Either way, you will need to meet with your older brother.”
“Uh, yes. Of course.” Kame cursed inside his head. Either Nao failed to mention that Hiroto had living relatives or she didn’t know. “I’d love to meet my brother.”
“Good.” Richard Moore nodded. “Your big brother is staying at the Fairmont Hotel. What time will you be able to come by today?”
“I guess after... our shop closes. That’d be at around 10 PM. Will that be okay.”
Richard agreed with a smile. “I’ll tell him that. Just approach the front desk and ask for Kanzaki Shizuku’s room.” He stood up from his seat. “I better go. Maybe I’ll get some of your Choux a la crème for dine out.” He smiled gently. “My daughter and the freeloader[9] staying with us would love to eat it for dessert tonight.”
“Certainly. Let us go back to the shop and let me prepare the order for you.”
-----
“You’re going out tonight?” Yuusuke frowned as he put away the newly washed dishes.
Kame shrugged. “Yeah. The customer a while ago was a detective. Apparently someone is looking for me... a long lost... brother.”
“You have family?”
“Apparently.”
“Hmm. Well, I can stay in tonight and accompany Seiya home.” Yuusuke smiled.
“Thanks man!” Kame lightly punched Yuusuke's chest. “I owe you.”
“Okay. Scram!” Yuusuke replied with a smile. “I’ll just tell Seiya.”
Kame nodded, removing his apron.
Yuusuke shook his head in amazement. After all these years they’ve been together, Kanzaki Hiroto still remains a mystery to him. There are some things about his past that he’s unable to divulge but Yuusuke respected Hiroto’s wish and didn’t force him to disclose his past.
After making sure that the shop was closed and secured for the night, he went to the second floor where he found Seiya lounging on the couch.
“Where’s dad?” Seiya asked, munching on some potato chips. She moved a bit to make space for Yuusuke to sit on.
Yuusuke sat down next to Seiya with a grin. “Your dad got a date for the night.” He teased.
Seiya looked shocked. “No way?!”
“Of course, I’m kidding.” Yuusuke laughed and ruffled Seiya’s hair. “Why, if he really was on a date, will you throw a fit?” he asked seriously.
“Hell no! If he was on a date, I’d be happy for him. You know I’ve always wondered about this.” Seiya rolled her eyes. “Why can’t you just two get... you know, together?”
“You know I have Chikage.”
“I know, and I love Chi-san but... I’ve always wondered why... before you and Chi-san met... why you two haven’t... you know, gotten together.” Seiya asked. “I mean... it’s clear that you love each other. So why?”
“It’s complicated, Seiya...” Yuusuke said. “What your father and I have... is a relationship above friendship and below lovers.”
The teenage girl heaved a long sigh. “Do you reckon my dad... couldn’t get over mom? That’s why... he’s not into dating?”
“No. I think your dad already moved on from your mom... it’s just that your dad loves you so much and he doesn’t want to leave your side. You were too young to remember this... but you got into an accident and almost lost your life because... the woman he was dating was careless and as a result, you were hit by a car.” Yuusuke paused. “After that, he swore he’ll never leave your side again... for a love interest.”
Seiya grew silent.
“Sweet cheeks?” Yuusuke called out, a little worried that Seiya was offended with what he said.
“So it’s my fault?”
“No it isn’t.” Yuusuke slowly pulled Seiya to him and laid her head down on his lap. He played with strands of his jet-black hair. “It was your dad’s decision. Who knows... maybe if he met someone... who can... get through his defenses and make him fall in love again...”
“That’d be nice.” Seiya nodded. “Hmmm... maybe I can set him up with someone?” she suggested, her eyes full of mischief.
Yuusuke laughed heartily. “I doubt that would work. Let’s just wait for Fate to bring someone for your father, okay?”
Seiya pouted but agreed with Yuusuke’s logic.
-----
Kame approached the hotel’s front desk and asked for Kanzaki Shizuku. The receptionist smiled and asked him to sit on the lounge area while she contacts Shizuku.
Kame was nervous. This is a make or break. If... Hiroto really is Shizuku’s long lost brother... this will turn into a big problem. He could be facing a lawsuit for falsifying his papers in order to come here in Canada.
“Hiroto?” A man, not a year or two older than Kame, exclaimed.
Kame stood up and bowed down to greet the man.
“It is you!” the man was overjoyed. “You... you don’t remember me, your niisan?”
“I’m-- sorry. I don’t.”
“I’m Kanzaki Shizuku. Do you--” Shizuku gestured upwards. “Mind if we talk in my suite?” Kame shook his head. “Okay, come follow me then.”
Shizuku’s suite was located on the 8th floor of the hotel. Kame was shocked that even with low lights, the suite looked luxurious. It had a large foyer, an elegant dining room and what looks like stairs leading to the second floor. He felt his jaw dropping a bit.
“Are you... by any chance, are you staying here alone?”
“No, I have a friend staying with me.” Shizuku mysteriously answered. “So, how have you been? How’s mom?”
The answer to that question, Kame knew. Nao taught him some of the basic things there is to know about Hiroto and the fact that Nao didn’t know that Hiroto had a brother... means that her husband had a secret past too.
“Mom... mom died when I was in high school.”
“Oh.” Shizuku looked saddened by the news. “Dad died a year ago and he left some estates under your name. You also have some stocks under your name so you need to come back to Japan and manage them.” Shizuku sat on the couch.
“Isn’t it... a bit dark in here?” Kame commented as he sat down to the couch adjacent to Shizuku’s seat.
“My eyes are bad with lights so I keep it this low.” Shizuku answered with a smile. “Does that bother you?” Kame shook his head. “Anyway, I had trouble locating you and when we... finally got a clue on where you are... we found out that you died.”
“I’m-- I...” Kame heaved a sigh. “Look, I will tell you something but promise me... you will not get angry.”
Shizuku threw him a questioning look.
“I’m-- not your brother. Hiroto... Hiroto was Nao’s husband. Your information was correct... Hiroto really died 16 years ago... and 15 years ago... I met Nao and she helped me... get out of a tight situation. She suggested we change my name into Hiroto’s and leave Japan...”
Shizuku suddenly looked emotionless. “You used my brother’s name to come here in Canada?”
Kame looked down. “Uh... yes.”
“Are you a wanted criminal in Japan?”
“No!” Kame denied vehemently.
“Then why did you need to change your name and identity?” Shizuku said bitingly. “You and Nao... even though she was my late brother’s wife... had no right to do that.”
“I’m sorry...”
“Who are you? I will report you to the proper authorities and--”
“Please, I’m begging you. I have a family. I can’t--”
“Then tell me who you really are.”
“Kame--” the man in questioned said in barely a whisper. “--nashi Kazuya.”
“What?”
“Kamenashi Kazuya. My name is Kamenashi Kazuya.” He said, louder this time.
Shizuku gaze transferred at one part of the foyer, the part where the low lights didn’t touch. “Is that what you wanted to hear?” He asked, standing up from his seat.
A figure started moving from the shadows. “Yes. Thank you for your help, Shizuku. I’m sorry he wasn’t the one who you were looking for.” The man said, careful not to step out of the area where the lights touched. Kame thought the voice sounded familiar but he couldn’t place a name on the voice.
“No, at least I now know that my brother is truly dead.” Shizuku said with a sad smile, turning to Kame. “I’m really sorry, Kamenashi-kun, if I scared you. Don’t worry, I don’t have any plans of taking legal actions against you.”
“Thank you... I guess.” Kame stood up bowed down gratefully.
Shizuku patted his shoulders. “I’ll be in my room. You two have a lot to talk about.” The older man then left for the suite’s second floor.
“So... after fifteen years of futile attempts in finding you... I finally succeeded in locating you.” The man now emerged out of the shadows. “How are you doing, my sweet Kamenashi Kazuya?” The man asked, his arms in akimbo as he stared Kazuya down.
“Jin!” Kame gasped out.
Back to Fic List / On to Chapter Two
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Footnotes
[1] Ono Yuusuke (小野 裕介) is a character from Antique Bakery.
[2] Seiya (聖夜) means “holy night”. I’m actually unsure if Seiya is a gender-specific name since most anime characters I know that have Seiya as their name are all males. Forgive me if the name is meant for boys only. *sweat drop* I just like the name Seiya because of its meaning. XD
[3] This is actually a line from Antique Bakery. It’s really a nice description of what Tachibana and Ono have with each other!
[4] Mamoru (衛) means "to protect". This name I chose randomly because I was watching Weiss Kreuz on and off while I was writing this *bricked* my favorite character is Omi Tsukiyono... thus the name Mamoru. XD
[5] Tachibana Keiichiro (橘 圭一郎) is a character from Antique Bakery.
[6] Kobayakawa Chikage (小早川 千影), like Yuusuke and Keiichiro, is a character from Antique Bakery.
[7] Richard Moore is the English name for Mouri Kogorou (毛利 小五郎), a character from Meitantei Conan. I added him here because it feels a little weird to hear a different voice than Kamiya Akira voicing his character ^^;; weird as it may sound, I actually miss his voice... ignore the fact that I’ve only heard Koyama Rikiya voicing Mouri once *shot* ooh well, I guess his voice will catch on as he appears on more episodes. XD okay, so I’ve heard Rikiya twice already and I think he’s getting used to Mouri’s... er... flavor of speaking. He sounds a little like the Mouri we know and love.
[8] Yes, Kanzaki Shizuku, Kame’s role in Kami no Shizuku. I don’t know if anyone’s noticed it before but Hiroto and Shizuku have the same last name and I wanted to somehow make a connection between them *bricked* thus, him appearing here as Hiroto’s brother. XD and please just ignore the fact that the first character of their last name differ from each other
[9] ROFL, of course Richard Moore is talking about Ran and Conan here.
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A/N: A bit long for the first chapter, huh? In terms of my regular updates... this is about 8 chapters! XD I was reluctant to cut it into parts until Jin arrived, hence, the long chapter. *bricked* Hope you still enjoyed the story! This is my present to myself... for being able to write two years straight of Akame love.
I mentioned this already in one of those random personal entries. I’m kind of afraid that Kame here will appear... a little girly, with him trying to move on with his life and failing at it. I’m not really sure how to fully express what I want to say in that statement *laughs* I’ve experienced the same thing Kame did in Vector. After that event in my life, all I wanted to do was try and move on with what I have left of my life but it proved to be a little hard. Some things and feelings are just... quite hard to forget, leave and move on from, if you know what I mean.
So yeah, about the story, is it worth continuing? XD
Comments please? Thanks!
Year 2016.
It took Kame ten years before he had gathered his courage to come back to Japan. If it was his choice, he wouldn’t come back here at all! It was only because he wanted to bring Nao back home and bury her next to the real Kanzaki Hiroto.
Kame lighted incense sticks and clapped his hands three times. He started praying for the dead souls of Hiroto and Nao, apologizing to them for taking this long to have their ashes reunited. After what seemed like hours, Kame finally left the cemetery.
He left Seiya with Yuusuke in Canada because his little girl had piano lessons during the short winter break. Yuusuke, who had been a great help in taking care of things around the shop and their little household, had become his intimate friend. They sometimes shared beds during those nights when Kame felt lonely.
Whenever they tried to label what relationship they have with each other, they can never arrive with a name. They were friends... however, they were definitely more than just friends but they are definitely not lovers. Yuusuke, during the last ten years they spent together, had a few relationships; all of which ended badly. Whenever his relationships ended, there was always Kame beside him, helping him to pick up the pieces of his shattered heart.
After Nao died, Kame once dated a lady when Seiya was about three years old. She was one of those ladies he met when he went clubbing with Yuusuke. She was really sweet to Seiya and she hinted greatly that she was good with kids, making Kame believe that she was the right woman to become Seiya’s stepmother. Their relationship ended only after six months of dating when Kame made the fatal mistake of making the woman take care of Seiya one afternoon when he headed out to restock the shop’s cupboards. Yuusuke was doing the deliveries that day so Kame had no choice but to leave his daughter in her care. Seiya, because of her age, was playful and curious. She walked around the shop until she wandered outside of the shop and into the road where she was hit by a car. Because that woman was really not paying attention to his daughter whenever he was not around, and she really wasn’t fond of her in anyway as what she disclosed after they broke up, Seiya ended up in the emergency room and almost lost her life because of that accident.
Yuusuke was there to help Kame, just like how Kame was there to help him. They were more than friends but not exactly lovers. Whatever it is they have, they both can understand one thing: they are not lovers and because of that, they will never be separated from each other.[3]
Kame was walking around Tokyo leisurely, his feet making all the decision where he was headed. He was surprised to find himself standing on the very same park where he and Jin used to walk Pin and Ran... the very same park where everything started falling apart for him and Jin.
He slowly roamed his eyes around and his gaze settled on a family of eight: four boys, two girls, the wife... and the husband.
“Jin?” Kame unconsciously barked out. He covered his mouth and turned around. Thankfully, nobody paid heed to what he was doing or saying. The people passing by were too busy with their own lives to pay attention to him. He hurriedly went to hide in an old oak tree to spy on his old... friend.
He watched as Jin scooped two of his daughters into his arms and playfully turned around. The happy squeals they made Kame’s heart twinge. He heard the woman scolding Jin to put the girls down. Jin placed the girls down on the ground with a big pout but grinned afterwards when his four boys took the opportunity to drag him to the field and play soccer.
Jin kicked the ball around for the boys to go after and Kame felt even more hurt the more he watched the scene.
“So this was your answer, Jin.” He said. “I guess... goodbye was your answer.” He said with a bitter smile pasted on his face. “You never did try to find me, did you? You were probably just glad that I went away so you can have this big of a family... the family that you’ve always wanted.” With heavy steps, he slowly turned around, not before wishing the man he thought to be his life mate... happiness with his big family.
He was sad but he got his own family now, composed of Seiya and Yuusuke. Those two will never hurt him, unlike what Jin had done to him. They were Kame’s everything and he’ll do everything to keep his family happy and fulfilled.
-----
Year 2021.
“What?” Jin exclaimed on the phone. “You think you’ve found a trail of Kame? After all these years of being unable to do so?”
The private investigator scratched his head. “I think we have a lead on it. I have another client who was looking for his long lost brother. He wishes to speak with you.”
“What does this have to do with Kamenashi Kazuya?” Jin’s brows furrowed.
“We can talk about it in person. Are you free to meet us in an hour?”
“Yes, but only for two hours.” Jin said after checking his schedule. “I have a parent-teacher conference to attend for Mamoru[4] and I’ll be damned if I don’t show up there today. You don’t think it’ll take that long, do you?”
“No, I don’t think it will. My client is straightforward. I’m sure it’ll be over in a jiffy.”
“Okay. So where do you want us to meet?”
After they’ve discussed the details, Jin headed out of the Jimusho. After KAT-TUN’s official suspension, the group has never been reinstated. Even when they were attending shows, they no longer associate each member as a KAT-TUN member after a year of not doing group activities. They were only Akanishi Jin, Taguchi Junnosuke, Tanaka Koki, Ueda Tatsuya and Nakamaru Yuichi with no band affiliation.
It was sad. When that happened, it was as if it was fully official that they will no longer become a group again. Not until they find Kame. Their friends gave up on finding Kame after five years of futile attempts. Even Kame’s family members no longer desire to find him. They said Kazuya will show up when he wants to and until then, all they can do is pray for his happiness and good health.
The only people who were still zealous in finding Kame were none other than Johnny-san and Jin. Both men did their best in trying to locate Kamenashi Kazuya but their efforts where fruitless. Johnny-san tried everything he could to get the information out of the lawyer that sent out the request to cancel Kazuya’s contract and paid the damages but it was useless; the man wouldn’t talk a single thing.
But now, after fifteen years of vain attempts to find Kame, he may have a ray of hope this time. This was definitely better than nothing.
Jin sent a mail to Johnny-san. The 91-year-old man retired from the business in 2007 because of his old age. Jin was sure Johnny-san would be pleased to learn that they may have a chance this time of finding Kame.
After sending the mail, his phone vibrated. The screen showed the name of his 15-year old son, Mamoru. He answered the phone with a bright smile on his face. “Yo. What’s up?”
“I just wanted to remind you about the meeting. My homeroom teacher will really kill me this time if you don’t attend this parent-teacher stuff so make sure to come?” Mamoru pleaded with a cracking voice, a result of puberty.
“Hai~ I made sure I didn’t have any tapings or meetings to attend this afternoon so be rest assured that I’ll be there. Okay, kiddo?”
“Thanks dad~! See you later then!”
Jin lightly shook his head in amusement at his son.
-----
The door chimes sounded harshly followed by a bang from the kitchen’s backdoor. Kame and Yuusuke, who were at the shop and served customers, glanced at each other.
“Go.” Yuusuke signaled with his head.
Kame smiled gratefully and went inside. “Seiya, sweetheart?” His not so little girl glared at the closed door. “Is there a problem?” He amusedly asked.
The glare turned into a sweet one when Seiya’s eyes met her dad’s figure. “No, nothing’s the matter.”
“Hm?” Kame gestured for the girl to come forward, which the latter followed. Kame hugged his daughter. “Is it Leisl?” He said, referring to his daughter’s best friend. He felt Seiya nod against his chest.
“That idiot!” Seiya mumbled. “She ditched me again for her boyfriend.”
Kame laughingly ruffled Seiya's hair. “I knew it was about that.”
“You don’t understand Dad!” Seiya bitterly said. “You don’t know how I feel each time she ditches me... and it’s like she doesn’t even know she’s hurting me!”
Kame sighed and leads Seiya to sit on a stool and let her continue speaking.
“She ditches me to spend time with her boyfriend during lunch time, she stopped walking home with after school and this morning, she for left school without me!” Seiya gritted her teeth in anger as Kame consolingly soothed her back. “I was late for school because of her and I got a damned detention on a Friday!” She yelled. “And what’s worse? She didn’t even say sorry to me during lunch. She wouldn’t even give me a time of her day! Well guess what, we’re done with our friendship!”
“Sweetheart, maybe she didn’t mean to do those--”
“No dad, she did mean to do it!”
“Seiya, maybe she has her own reasons why--”
“Are you siding with her?”
“No, I am not.” Kame raised both his hands in surrender. “Just... you’ve been best friends since kindergarten... what you two have is special and it’d be a waste to end it just because of this misunderstanding.”
“I can’t even talk to her dad!”
“I know... maybe just give her time and space for a little while? You do have other friends you can spend time with, right? Leisl just... got her first boyfriend so maybe she’s adjusting dividing her time into two: one with her boyfriend and one with her best friend. I’m sure it’s not an easy thing to do.”
Seiya paused to think. “Fine. But I’ll wait until she decides to talk to me. I am not ever going to approach her at lunch. She made me feel really insulted because she acted like she didn’t even know me.” Seiya said with a pout and tears threatening to fall off her eyes.
“Awww, sweetheart.” Kame gave her another hug. “I’m sure you two will talk this thing out in time.”
Seiya wiped her eyes clear of tears. “Thanks dad.” She gave a quick peck to Kame’s cheeks. “I’m going to change and then come down to help you and Yuu-pops out in the shop.”
“Okay.” Kame smiled and watched her scram off to the second floor. He shook his head and headed out to the shop floor. He saw Yuusuke sitting lazily on the couch in front of the register.
“Was it because of Leisl?” Kame nodded and Yuusuke couldn’t help but laugh. “I knew it. Poor girl. Must have been a big shock to be left alone because her best friend got a boyfriend now.”
“Tell me about it.” Kame sat down next to Yuusuke with a pout. “She was ranting at the kitchen but I guess we really can’t blame her.” He rested his head on Yuusuke’s right shoulder. “Today’s a Friday. Are you going out tonight?”
“I haven’t decided.” Yuusuke sighed. “It’s getting tiring you know... going out and going home alone.”
Kame laughed. “Any news on when Chikage is coming to visit?” He asked, referring to Yuusuke’s current boyfriend.
The taller of the two shrugged. “No news yet. I guess Tachibana’s a bit busy back in Japan and don’t have time to go out of the country.”
Kame giggled. “Chi-san is a bit hopeless without him, huh?”
“Yeah~” Yuusuke replied with a snigger. “But that’s what I love about him.”
Keiichiro Tachibana[5] is Yuusuke’s old friend and high school classmate who he happened to meet after years of estrangement while Kobayakawa Chikage[6] is Keiichiro’s childhood friend and self-named butler/bodyguard. Although they all refer to Chikage as a bodyguard, he really wasn’t. Chikage sucks doing everything except driving for Keiichiro. Technically, they really should start calling him Keiichiro’s driver.
“Maybe you should call him.” Kame suggested with a smile. “I mean, it’s almost... what... six months since you last saw him in person.”
“I’d love to, but I don’t want him to see me as someone clingy and needy. I’ll wait until he comes back to visit me.”
“You think too much. I’m sure Chi-san would love to get a call from you.”
“Hm. Fine, maybe I’ll give him a call later.” Yuusuke mused.
Kame stood up, patted Yuusuke’s shoulder and left to assist the customer who just came in. “Good afternoon. A seat for one?” The customer nodded. Kame smiled as he showed the customer to a nearby table and handed him a menu.
“Are you Kanzaki Hiroto?” the man asked directly as he took the menu in his hands .
“Why yes, I am.” Kame answered with a smile. “What can I do for you?
The man put down the menu and got a business card out of his suit pocket. “My name’s Richard Moore,[7] a private investigator.”
Kame hesitantly reached out to get the card.
“Look, I’ll go straight to the point. My client is your long lost brother.” He turned around, seeing that there were a lot of customers that could overhear their conversation. “Do you mind bringing me somewhere private? I don’t think you’d appreciate everyone in the shop accidentally hearing our conversation.”
Kame scratched his head. “Um, but this is rush hour--” he started when he saw Seiya coming out of the kitchen with a sweet smile on her face. “Okay, my daughter’s here so I guess I can take you to our living quarters.” He called the attention of Seiya and Yuusuke. “We... uh, have important matters to discuss. Seiya, make sure you help your Pops around the shop, okay?” Both nodded their understanding. “Okay, uh, Mr. Moore, this way please.”
When they were fully settled on the living room, Richard Moore continued speaking. “As I was saying, my client is looking for you Hiroto, your long lost brother named Shizuku[8]. We believe you were too young to remember him and your parents’ divorce. Now that your dad is dead, you will need to come back home to Japan and manage the assets you inherited you’re your father.” Moore said seriously. “While I was looking for you, we came across this information. We found out that Hiroto died sixteen years ago but we found immigration papers stating the otherwise... that Hiroto flew here in Canada and has been living here for the past 15 years.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, as you can see, I’m here alive.” Kame tried to reason out, his heart threatening to stop beating from the tension.
Richard Moore just raised an eyebrow at the younger man. “Say what you will. Either way, you will need to meet with your older brother.”
“Uh, yes. Of course.” Kame cursed inside his head. Either Nao failed to mention that Hiroto had living relatives or she didn’t know. “I’d love to meet my brother.”
“Good.” Richard Moore nodded. “Your big brother is staying at the Fairmont Hotel. What time will you be able to come by today?”
“I guess after... our shop closes. That’d be at around 10 PM. Will that be okay.”
Richard agreed with a smile. “I’ll tell him that. Just approach the front desk and ask for Kanzaki Shizuku’s room.” He stood up from his seat. “I better go. Maybe I’ll get some of your Choux a la crème for dine out.” He smiled gently. “My daughter and the freeloader[9] staying with us would love to eat it for dessert tonight.”
“Certainly. Let us go back to the shop and let me prepare the order for you.”
-----
“You’re going out tonight?” Yuusuke frowned as he put away the newly washed dishes.
Kame shrugged. “Yeah. The customer a while ago was a detective. Apparently someone is looking for me... a long lost... brother.”
“You have family?”
“Apparently.”
“Hmm. Well, I can stay in tonight and accompany Seiya home.” Yuusuke smiled.
“Thanks man!” Kame lightly punched Yuusuke's chest. “I owe you.”
“Okay. Scram!” Yuusuke replied with a smile. “I’ll just tell Seiya.”
Kame nodded, removing his apron.
Yuusuke shook his head in amazement. After all these years they’ve been together, Kanzaki Hiroto still remains a mystery to him. There are some things about his past that he’s unable to divulge but Yuusuke respected Hiroto’s wish and didn’t force him to disclose his past.
After making sure that the shop was closed and secured for the night, he went to the second floor where he found Seiya lounging on the couch.
“Where’s dad?” Seiya asked, munching on some potato chips. She moved a bit to make space for Yuusuke to sit on.
Yuusuke sat down next to Seiya with a grin. “Your dad got a date for the night.” He teased.
Seiya looked shocked. “No way?!”
“Of course, I’m kidding.” Yuusuke laughed and ruffled Seiya’s hair. “Why, if he really was on a date, will you throw a fit?” he asked seriously.
“Hell no! If he was on a date, I’d be happy for him. You know I’ve always wondered about this.” Seiya rolled her eyes. “Why can’t you just two get... you know, together?”
“You know I have Chikage.”
“I know, and I love Chi-san but... I’ve always wondered why... before you and Chi-san met... why you two haven’t... you know, gotten together.” Seiya asked. “I mean... it’s clear that you love each other. So why?”
“It’s complicated, Seiya...” Yuusuke said. “What your father and I have... is a relationship above friendship and below lovers.”
The teenage girl heaved a long sigh. “Do you reckon my dad... couldn’t get over mom? That’s why... he’s not into dating?”
“No. I think your dad already moved on from your mom... it’s just that your dad loves you so much and he doesn’t want to leave your side. You were too young to remember this... but you got into an accident and almost lost your life because... the woman he was dating was careless and as a result, you were hit by a car.” Yuusuke paused. “After that, he swore he’ll never leave your side again... for a love interest.”
Seiya grew silent.
“Sweet cheeks?” Yuusuke called out, a little worried that Seiya was offended with what he said.
“So it’s my fault?”
“No it isn’t.” Yuusuke slowly pulled Seiya to him and laid her head down on his lap. He played with strands of his jet-black hair. “It was your dad’s decision. Who knows... maybe if he met someone... who can... get through his defenses and make him fall in love again...”
“That’d be nice.” Seiya nodded. “Hmmm... maybe I can set him up with someone?” she suggested, her eyes full of mischief.
Yuusuke laughed heartily. “I doubt that would work. Let’s just wait for Fate to bring someone for your father, okay?”
Seiya pouted but agreed with Yuusuke’s logic.
-----
Kame approached the hotel’s front desk and asked for Kanzaki Shizuku. The receptionist smiled and asked him to sit on the lounge area while she contacts Shizuku.
Kame was nervous. This is a make or break. If... Hiroto really is Shizuku’s long lost brother... this will turn into a big problem. He could be facing a lawsuit for falsifying his papers in order to come here in Canada.
“Hiroto?” A man, not a year or two older than Kame, exclaimed.
Kame stood up and bowed down to greet the man.
“It is you!” the man was overjoyed. “You... you don’t remember me, your niisan?”
“I’m-- sorry. I don’t.”
“I’m Kanzaki Shizuku. Do you--” Shizuku gestured upwards. “Mind if we talk in my suite?” Kame shook his head. “Okay, come follow me then.”
Shizuku’s suite was located on the 8th floor of the hotel. Kame was shocked that even with low lights, the suite looked luxurious. It had a large foyer, an elegant dining room and what looks like stairs leading to the second floor. He felt his jaw dropping a bit.
“Are you... by any chance, are you staying here alone?”
“No, I have a friend staying with me.” Shizuku mysteriously answered. “So, how have you been? How’s mom?”
The answer to that question, Kame knew. Nao taught him some of the basic things there is to know about Hiroto and the fact that Nao didn’t know that Hiroto had a brother... means that her husband had a secret past too.
“Mom... mom died when I was in high school.”
“Oh.” Shizuku looked saddened by the news. “Dad died a year ago and he left some estates under your name. You also have some stocks under your name so you need to come back to Japan and manage them.” Shizuku sat on the couch.
“Isn’t it... a bit dark in here?” Kame commented as he sat down to the couch adjacent to Shizuku’s seat.
“My eyes are bad with lights so I keep it this low.” Shizuku answered with a smile. “Does that bother you?” Kame shook his head. “Anyway, I had trouble locating you and when we... finally got a clue on where you are... we found out that you died.”
“I’m-- I...” Kame heaved a sigh. “Look, I will tell you something but promise me... you will not get angry.”
Shizuku threw him a questioning look.
“I’m-- not your brother. Hiroto... Hiroto was Nao’s husband. Your information was correct... Hiroto really died 16 years ago... and 15 years ago... I met Nao and she helped me... get out of a tight situation. She suggested we change my name into Hiroto’s and leave Japan...”
Shizuku suddenly looked emotionless. “You used my brother’s name to come here in Canada?”
Kame looked down. “Uh... yes.”
“Are you a wanted criminal in Japan?”
“No!” Kame denied vehemently.
“Then why did you need to change your name and identity?” Shizuku said bitingly. “You and Nao... even though she was my late brother’s wife... had no right to do that.”
“I’m sorry...”
“Who are you? I will report you to the proper authorities and--”
“Please, I’m begging you. I have a family. I can’t--”
“Then tell me who you really are.”
“Kame--” the man in questioned said in barely a whisper. “--nashi Kazuya.”
“What?”
“Kamenashi Kazuya. My name is Kamenashi Kazuya.” He said, louder this time.
Shizuku gaze transferred at one part of the foyer, the part where the low lights didn’t touch. “Is that what you wanted to hear?” He asked, standing up from his seat.
A figure started moving from the shadows. “Yes. Thank you for your help, Shizuku. I’m sorry he wasn’t the one who you were looking for.” The man said, careful not to step out of the area where the lights touched. Kame thought the voice sounded familiar but he couldn’t place a name on the voice.
“No, at least I now know that my brother is truly dead.” Shizuku said with a sad smile, turning to Kame. “I’m really sorry, Kamenashi-kun, if I scared you. Don’t worry, I don’t have any plans of taking legal actions against you.”
“Thank you... I guess.” Kame stood up bowed down gratefully.
Shizuku patted his shoulders. “I’ll be in my room. You two have a lot to talk about.” The older man then left for the suite’s second floor.
“So... after fifteen years of futile attempts in finding you... I finally succeeded in locating you.” The man now emerged out of the shadows. “How are you doing, my sweet Kamenashi Kazuya?” The man asked, his arms in akimbo as he stared Kazuya down.
“Jin!” Kame gasped out.
Back to Fic List / On to Chapter Two
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Footnotes
[1] Ono Yuusuke (小野 裕介) is a character from Antique Bakery.
[2] Seiya (聖夜) means “holy night”. I’m actually unsure if Seiya is a gender-specific name since most anime characters I know that have Seiya as their name are all males. Forgive me if the name is meant for boys only. *sweat drop* I just like the name Seiya because of its meaning. XD
[3] This is actually a line from Antique Bakery. It’s really a nice description of what Tachibana and Ono have with each other!
[4] Mamoru (衛) means "to protect". This name I chose randomly because I was watching Weiss Kreuz on and off while I was writing this *bricked* my favorite character is Omi Tsukiyono... thus the name Mamoru. XD
[5] Tachibana Keiichiro (橘 圭一郎) is a character from Antique Bakery.
[6] Kobayakawa Chikage (小早川 千影), like Yuusuke and Keiichiro, is a character from Antique Bakery.
[7] Richard Moore is the English name for Mouri Kogorou (毛利 小五郎), a character from Meitantei Conan. I added him here because it feels a little weird to hear a different voice than Kamiya Akira voicing his character ^^;; weird as it may sound, I actually miss his voice... ignore the fact that I’ve only heard Koyama Rikiya voicing Mouri once *shot* ooh well, I guess his voice will catch on as he appears on more episodes. XD okay, so I’ve heard Rikiya twice already and I think he’s getting used to Mouri’s... er... flavor of speaking. He sounds a little like the Mouri we know and love.
[8] Yes, Kanzaki Shizuku, Kame’s role in Kami no Shizuku. I don’t know if anyone’s noticed it before but Hiroto and Shizuku have the same last name and I wanted to somehow make a connection between them *bricked* thus, him appearing here as Hiroto’s brother. XD and please just ignore the fact that the first character of their last name differ from each other
[9] ROFL, of course Richard Moore is talking about Ran and Conan here.
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A/N: A bit long for the first chapter, huh? In terms of my regular updates... this is about 8 chapters! XD I was reluctant to cut it into parts until Jin arrived, hence, the long chapter. *bricked* Hope you still enjoyed the story! This is my present to myself... for being able to write two years straight of Akame love.
I mentioned this already in one of those random personal entries. I’m kind of afraid that Kame here will appear... a little girly, with him trying to move on with his life and failing at it. I’m not really sure how to fully express what I want to say in that statement *laughs* I’ve experienced the same thing Kame did in Vector. After that event in my life, all I wanted to do was try and move on with what I have left of my life but it proved to be a little hard. Some things and feelings are just... quite hard to forget, leave and move on from, if you know what I mean.
So yeah, about the story, is it worth continuing? XD
Comments please? Thanks!