CLASSMATES 31/?
a/N: My connection's been pretty bad that I could not post this on Friday.. sorry about that, um, sorry about this one.. i felt crying that I didn't write as much as i wanted to.. my life's really complicated right now, so i decided to complicate things a little bit more in this chapter.. oops.. sorry. :( comments are loved <3.
CHAPTER 31
-STAGE III [PRELUDE]-
"Anou~ Tetsuka-san, you mentioned that A- I mean, your daughter is friends with Oniichan. When exactly did they meet? I mean, your daughter never told me." Because she didn't know that Sho Sakurai is your oniichan.. her mind was telling her, but she continued her question, "where exactly have they met?" Mai pretended to be curious.
"Ah, that, remember when your brother took his exchange studies in the Philippines? I was expanding the business around that time, so I forced my daughter to come there with me, and there he met your brother in the university." Reiko told them casually. "I say they were quite close, that in the end, Shi introduced him to me as well."
"Oh! Oniichan is here!" It was Shu this time. Whew! That was close! Baka oniichan what took you so long? He shot a you're-so-dead kind of stare at Sho who just shrugged and continued walking towards them as if nothing happened. He was wearing a black suit that matches the theme of the event, his hair a bit ruffled but was neatly done, making him all the way gorgeous. Female guests couldn't help but gazed at him and be dazzled by his stature. He smiled at his mom showing his teeth while giving her an i-told-you-mom-i-am-gorgeous kind of look.
When the kids saw him, they acted surprised. "A-re? Sho-niichan?"
"Hey, I thought you were going somewhere else with your mom?" Sho asked but taken aback by his own question, another glare from Shu and he knew it was a mistake asking. The next question of the twins could attest to that.
"Eh? How did you know?" both kids asked in chorus.
"Ah.." Jun ,, Matsujun's name suddenly popped on his mind, "Jun told me a while ago when he invited her for coffee, don't tell me, the event she's talking about is this event?" Sho questioned.
Shu sighed. So close Oniichan! BakA!
"AH, hai," Shuri nodded "and by this event, you mean, Sakurai-ojiichan is your dad?" Shuri asked innocently.
"Um I guessed you could see that," Sho nodded and glanced around the table to see who among the guests were sitting with them and sighed in relief when he found out that it was only his kids, a vacant seat for Shi, and someone whom he hadn't expected to see even in his wildest dreams.
"Ah, Reiko-kaasan, hisashiburi.. I didn't know that you're acquainted with my parents, " He bowed in recognition before occupying the chair beside Shuri.
"Ah, Sho, sorry if I didn't tell you before because I wasn't too sure whether you were actually Sakurai-sempai's son or not. But I found out a year later that you're indeed their son." Reiko smiled warmly at him.
"Son, you didn't mention that you're friends with Reiko-san's daughter," Sakurai-san observed his son closely, remembering Reiko's words awhile ago about meeting his son five years ago, the same time when her daughter got pregnant and was left by whomever the twins' dad is.
"Ah, yes I am, but I didn't know that you're friends with her mom, and its not like you to know my friends right?" Sho answered but wished he hadn't. "Ah, gomen, I didn't mean it like that," HE added when his mom shot him a wary look before grabbing the glass of water which was served when he sat.
"Tetsuka-san told us a very interesting story about your friendship with her Oniichan, did you happen to know who the kids' dad was?" Mai suddenly asked which caused Sho to choke on his water. Luckily it didn't spill.
"Mai! That was a very rude question in front of Reiko-san," Yuko scolded her daughter before turning at Reiko with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that Reiko-san, you see my daughter's curiosity sometimes got ahead of her that she spoke without thinking."
"Ah, its okay Yuko, I don't mind, to be honest, I was also a bit curious about that," Reiko let out a cackle.
"Curious?" Yuko asked.
"If your son knew the kids' dad, you see, after their sem ended, Sho headed back to Japan and my daughter was left behind. A month after that, while Shi was in Hawaii, she'd found herself pregnant," Reiko explained amused at the mixed emotions that displayed on every member of the Sakurai Family.
Masaka~ Mai couldn't get hold of her thoughts anymore as memories of what Shi had told her kept swarming on her mind.
"I met him five years ago when he stayed in the Philippines for his exchange studies.." Angel laughed before continuing..
That's how Mai found out about their friendship and how she fell for the guy.
"..That day we decided to have our sem ender, and he had his usual doze of alcohol, while it was my first time drinking one, you see, I'm still considered as minor, besides I'm intolerant.. and then it happened. I thought it was the happiest day of my life yet it turned out that it was the saddest also. The day after what happened, I found out that he was returning to Japan. It broke my heart. I cried bitterly. I took my refuge in Hawaii after that, and then a month of staying there I found out about my pregnancy, I was scared, but there was an old man named Johnny who helped me.."
Mai could hardly breathe remembering the name of the old man who helped Angel. Johnny. Could it be? Mai thought again, but what she remembered next made her heart broke as well.
"At first, I wasn't that hurt when I found out that he's leaving, what triggered the pain were actually his words. That time I didn't know what to do, he told me that he was an idol in Japan…"
Idol. Johnny. Sakurai Shuji. Sakurai Shuri. Add the framed drawing she'd seen on top of Angel's table, the same art she used to see her brother draw and the wallpaper of his brother which clearly looked like Shuri. Then it hit her. Mai was losing her nerves, she so wanted to slap her brother.
"Anou~" Shuri waved a hand in front of her that brought her thoughts back to reality.
"Hmm?" She asked the kid smilingly.
"Where's the toilet neechan? I needed to go there," Shuri told Mai shyly before glancing at her twin who smiled playfully at her.
"Hmm, you want me to go there with you?" Mai offered.
"Iie, Shuji will go with me, just tell us the directions neechan, and we'll be fine." Shuri waved her hands while shaking her head.
"Okay, see that hallway?" Mai pointed at the long hallway going to some entrance/exit. The twins nodded. "Walk there straightly then turn right on the first corner."
"Ah, I get it neechan," Shuri stood grabbing her brother's wrist.
"Where are you going?" Sho asked.
"Toilet," the twins said in chorus and bowed before excusing themselves.
"I thought my daughter will be here as well? I wonder where she was." Reiko took as sip at her juice observing the Sakurai family through the glass, when Mai suddenly exclaimed.
"Oh!" Mai could not believe her eyes.
The guests couldn't believe it either.
From the entrance hall, there stood a woman, obviously looking for someone. She bowed elegantly to the usher when he assisted her on her coat. Her hair was straight with soft curls on its ends, set loosely to match her shoulders. She was clad in a haltered black velvet dress, cut above knee length and match with silver-strapped stilettos which were adorned with crystal gems and fashioned with black velvet lining. On her neck hang a silver-chained crystal which matches her earrings. Set upon her upper right arm was a black velvet lined bangle with a crystal enclosed in a silver casing to compliment her necklace and earrings. It was simple yet very elegant. And it made her more beautiful that she instantly stand out in the crowd.
The moment she started walking, the hall suddenly become silent as they stared admiringly at the woman whose face spelled beauty and classiness. Even models which were present at the event agreed on that.
OMG! Do I look that weird? Why was everyone staring? Shi couldn't help but thought upon seeing those eyes which turned to her that he slightly bowed her head. God..please stop staring..she muttered under her breathe when she noticed that they were still looking at her. She looked around the hall to find Mai. Now I wish I didn't take that call from Johnny.Tsk..clicked her tongue and continued searching when a man blocked her way.
"Hmm, excuse me Miss, are you alone?" The guy asked her with eyes that fluttered obviously hitting on her.
"I'm sorry, I'm looking for someone," She bowed politely and trailed off leaving the man speechless.
++++++
There's no denying it, Shi is really a woman whom any guy would want to win over, and Sho became jealous because of that. As guests observed her closely, he can't help but smile seeing how she turned down that man..The nerve! He carefully darted his eyes on her so that no one in his family could notice while feeling the demand of his own body. Sho reached for the glass of water to calm himself.
"Oh, that guy had the nerve to approach my daughter? Who does he think he is?" Reiko furrowed her eyebrows which made Sho a bit surprised that the woman shared the same sentiment as him.
"Mai, waved a hand on her so that she could directly go here without problems, the way I see it, in no time, men would surround her to have a piece of information about her.. surely you don't want Reiko to worry about that right?" Yuko asked her daughter.
"Hai. Wakata Okaasan," Mai nodded to her mom and waved a hand to her. Fortunately, Shi immediately noticed.
"Mai!" She called and the men who were starting to walk toward her backed off upon hearing her mentioned the politician's daughter add the fact that she was actually staring at the Sakurai Family. The men were dazzled when Shi walked past them, and approached the woman she had just called.
"Mai! You saved me there!" Shi sighed in relief when she got to where Mai was sitting. "I was starting to panic when they walked closer to me one by one.. Arigatou Mai!" Shi smiled, still panting hard, her eyes fixed on Mai that she didn't seem to notice Sho who was just sitting a seat away from his sister and the others as well as her own mother. When she glanced around though, the first person she saw was Sho. Shi blushed remembering what happened last night but that didn't stop her from raising an eyebrow.
For a moment Sho's eyes traveled from her head to toe, admiring the beauty that was his, as told by Jun before, before he displayed that playful smile that was very familiar to Shi.
"EH? Sho? Didn't you just tell me a while ago that you're going to your dad's event? And I had to turn down your invitation because I told you i was coming to this event with the twins. Then why are you here? Wait! Are you stalking me?" Shi asked simultaneously, still eyeing him with an i-wont-lose atmosphere.
"Me? Stalking you? Why would I do that If I can see you? And beside-" Sho answered mockingly, competing with the eye to eye contact.
"hah! Then why are you here? How about your dad's event? Isn't he going to get mad at you?" She gave a mirthless laugh that had made everyone sharing the same table felt the absurdity of the moment.
"That's what I-" Sho explained but Shi's continuous gibberish make it so hard for him.
"Wait, I-" Shi cut in.
"Hey Shi, let me finish okay?" Sho said in a slightly pissed tone. Tsk. I wonder why I fell in love with an annoyingly stubborn woman.
"Okay" she just kept on raising an eyebrow.
"Yes I did tell you that I'm coming to my dad's event, and yes I did invite you to come with me," Sho started but he was cut in midsentence again.
"Then-" Shi cut in, but Sho cut her in as well.
"Shi!" he called her name, raising his volume a little higher.
"Okay, stop beating around the bush Sho!" Shi grunted Why can't he just be direct to the point?
"I'm here because this is where I am supposed to be." Sho continued a little calmer now.
"Eh?" it was her time to get confused.
Sho smirked before clearing off her misunderstanding. "This event is sported by my dad."
"Eh?" again, she was confused.
"Eh? If you read about the invitation-" Sho carefully examined her expression, but seeing Shi as clueless about the situation, he furthered, "I supposed you have not, then that explained why you didn't realized that it was actually my dad's event where you were invited, that explained why you didn't answer me when I asked you what event you will be attending."
"Ah! I didn't read it at all because Mai told me the contents, wait," Shi turned from Mai to Sho, then back to Mai, "Mai-chan? Sakurai Mai? Eh? That means the older brother whom you're talking about, the one who was a complete dork, is actually Sho?"
Mai nodded awkwardly and smiled apologetically at her but stare angrily at her brother.
"Hey, me? A dork? What a good way to describe your older brother Mai," giving his sister a we'll-talk-about-this-later look before turning his attention back at Shi, "and you, beautiful woman, why didn't you realized that in the first place?" Sho asked, smirked at how clueless Shi was. Mai shot a glare at her older brother.
"Hey, cut it out, you children," Reiko laughed amusedly, gaining the attention of both Sho and Shi "and I don't remember raising you in that way Shi, where are your manners young woman?"
"Mama! You didn't tell me you're going back here in Japan!" Shi saw her mother for the first time.
"Aren't you going to give your mom a kiss?" Reiko asked.
"Ah! Gomen," Shi eyed Sho for a moment before stomping at his foot earning her a death glare from Sho, which she just returned with a smirk, and ran towards her mother to kiss her.
"Hora~ you shocked Sakurai-sempai and Yuko-san, introduced yourself properly will you" Reiko laughed seeing how her daughter acted childishly in front of Sho and felt satisfied with what she saw.
"Ah!" She turned to the older man and her wife, bowed politely and stood straightly, "Gomenasai. Hajimemashite, watashi wa Tetsuka Shi-desu. You can call me Shi," she bowed again.
To their surprise, Sakurai-san laughed. "Nice to meet you too Shi," he told her before glancing at her mom who was a bit surprised as well. "I didn't know that you had a very beautiful daughter Reiko, beautiful, but interesting."
"Anou~ what's interesting?" Shi asked but man just smiled. She was still on her foot, standing.
Sakurai-san motioned her to take a seat which she accepted. She looked for a vacant seat, but Sho suddenly stood and pulled the chair in between him and Mai and guided her to sit which leave her with no other options but to return the favor. However, this gesture of Sho didn't escape the eyes of the people sitting around them, especially his dad.
"Thanks," Shi smiled at him when he resumed his place. Sho just smiled back. "anou~ what's interesting?" she repeated her question.
"Normally, when a mother knew that her kids were humiliated, insulted or hurt, they will react violently, but you seemed different. The way you reacted and how you politely greeted me, its interesting. Why didn't you get mad at me knowing how I insulted your kids saying that its your plan?" He asked Shi and smiled apologetically at Reiko who stiffened hearing this revelation, "Oh yes Reiko, I actually insulted them,. But I know my place now, that's why I'm apologizing."
"You better be sempai," Reiko uttered murderously.
"Mama! My kids were not hurt okay? That's all that matters," She told her mom and turned at Sakurai-san, "About your question, I didn't get mad, because I don't feel the need to. Being a mother at 16, I had gone through a lot of humiliation in the past which was a lot worse than what you did so I really don't mind," Shi answered honestly before she added, "Besides, if I were in your shoes, I would've done the same thing..er, not that harshly though."
What a kind woman,so young but mature.. how I wish Sho..He thought but a sudden memory hit his mind. Moshikashite? Sakurai Shuji, Sakurai Shuri He panicked at the idea, but seeing how his son's eyes glittered upon seeing her, its possible. Rare case but possible, he couldn't help but smiled bitterly. Deep inside he was happy, but he knew his mind and his son's reputation can't take it.
Beside him, Yuko didn't need her son to tell her or to clarify her thoughts, for mothers really know best. Now she knew why it warmed her heart seeing the twins. She too smiled, but not bitterly, at the idea.
"Let's move on from the past shall we?" Sakurai-san suggested.
Reiko nodded grudgingly You'll pay for this.. while Shi agreed smilingly, the Sakurai family just stared at the head expectantly.
"Actually we're just talking about you Shi," Sakurai-san started which had caused Sho to feel uneasy. This didn't escape Mai. Hah! You deserved that Oniichan!
"Anou, sumimasen, but what exactly about me you're referring to?"Shi asked curiously.
"About whether my son knew the twins' dad.." Sakurai-san smiled painfully about the thought that was looming in his mind.
"Did he?" Reiko asked too. ..Now dear, let's see how both of you will handle this..It was a good thing that the twins were still at the toilet so the timing was perfect.
"Ah, why are you suddenly asking me that Mama? I-i- mean," Shi grabbed the glass of juice which nearly fell because she was shaking. Holding the glass with both hands, she took a sip, when she placed the glass down though, her mother, Sho's parents, and even Mai and Shu were still staring at her. "I mean, its rude for Sho, and besides who g-give you that idea?" Shi stammered.
"No one dear, I just thought, since you met him the same time, seemed that Sakurai-sempai wants to know too..now dear, did Sho knew?" Reiko continued. She didn't mean to put her daughter in a pinch but it was necessary.
"A'h.,hahaha" Shi laughed nervously. "Iie, i-ie, how c-could that be?" she put her hand on the table clumsily, accidentally knocking her purse and the spoon and fork which were on top of the table which made a loud thump on the floor. "Ah, gomen," She said before crouching down. She was surprised when Sho did the same movement that they were now staring at each other and their faces inches apart.
"Sho!" She whispered seeing his face near hers.
"Shshhs," Sho pulled her so that their heads were lower than the table's height clearly blocking them from the view of their parents. "Don't be so loud okay?
"But~ but," Her eyes started to water.
"Hush Shi, calm down okay? You need to calm down," Sho used the back of his hand to wipe the tears that escaped from her eyes.
"I was afraid .. what if what if?" Shi started to panic, another set of tears rolled down her eyes.
"Hey! What's wrong you two?"
They heard Sakurai-san.
"Ah- my purse opened and my things scattered, Sho was helping me." Shi lied while Sho hastily opened her purse and spread her things on the floor while at the same time pretending to put it back, buying them some time.
"What now?" She asked panicked while pretending to find her other things.
"Now listen, calm down okay? You need to pull yourself together," Sho whispered, "They will not find out, now's the wrong time..so don't stutter, it will make them suspicious," Sho touched her cheek.
"Okay..what will I tell them?" Shi asked, terror in her eyes.
Sho wanted to pull her into a hug, but he knew he couldn't afford to do that. He wanted to kiss her to calm her down, but doing so means exposing the truth. "Tell them, with calm and with confidence that I don't know."
"That's it?" Shi motioned to rub her eyes, but Sho stopped her.
"Don't! You'll ruin your makeup! That's it. Remember, calmly and confidently. Understand Shi? Its now or never," Sho smiled at her.
"Hai, I will," She smiled back. "Thanks," She muttered before putting all the contents of her purse inside her bag and sat straightly. Sho did the same and at the corner of her eye, Shi read him mouthed the word "calm" and "confidence". Okay Shi, Breathe in, Breathe out. "Ah, sorry about that, I was really clumsy at times, Sorry,.." She bowed her head.
"Don't worry dear, its okay," it was Yuko who answered.
"Now, back at the topic Shi, are you sure Sho didn't have the slightest idea who the twins' dad is?" Reiko asked her in a serious tone.
"Hai. I am sure. Sho didn't know anything about it. Sorry for the trouble Ma," Shi stared at her mom's eyes directly.
Tsk. Shin, I wish you were alive.. didn't know that your daughter will grew up like you, a stubborn kid.."Ah, its okay dear, sorry to put you in such a situation," Reiko had to let go of the topic for now. Turning to Sho, you're good Son,I didn't know what you said to my daughter, but it seemed she calmed down after that "purse" incident..She wanted to say, but instead, "You too Sho, sorry for the trouble."
"iie, I understand Reiko-kaasan," Whew! That was a close one..He said smiling politely. Little did he know, Mai was boiling out of rage that she kept sending some deadly stares at him.
"Mai? What's wrong? Why wearing such fierce look on you?" Yuko asked her daughter worriedly which brought Mai back to reality.
"Am I? Ah sorry.. just remembered something very awful.." She reasoned out and changed her expression into what seemed to be a calm face. Her mother wanted to asked further, and she knew she can't hold back if not weren't for the twins arrival. Mai sighed in relief as she tried to calm herself down. "I had this sudden urged of punching that guy, whoever he is." She meant it when she told Angel that, even if that guy happened to be her own brother.
"Mama!" the twins ran to Shi and gave her a hug before settling themselves in the chair. But not long after that, Sakurai-san's assistant approached, not to Sakurai-san's direction, but to everyone's surprise, to Shi's direction.
"Anou~" He was standing behind Sho's chair, but was facing Shi's direction. "You're Tetsuka Shi right?"
Shi stiffened upon hearing her own name called by the man whom she didn't know as Sakurai-san's assistant. OH! Not again! She thought helplessly as she recalled those paparazzi who chased after her wherever she go in the Philippines.
Sakurai-san apparently felt the awkwardness in the situation that he's the one who asked. "What are you doing assistant-san? You're scaring my guest," He scolded. Shi relaxed hearing him addressed the man as his assistant.
"Ah, no sire, I don't mean to scare her..you see my daughter is a fan of Miss Tetsuka," Assistant-san bowed his head in apology.
"Fan?" it was Sho who asked this time.
"Yes Sho-sama, two years ago, my daughter read an article about her, how she got full marks in Philippine licensure exam at 18years old, making her the first in Asia to do that,..Miss Tetsuka was featured as the cover model for TIME and other magazines and that's how my daughter began to be her fan," Assistant-san stared at her in amazement. "then recently, she found on the internet that Miss Tetsuka managed to perfect the exam here in our country as well as finishing her graduate studies in Keio on top of her class." Assistant-san enumerated all of her achievements including her very recent project with the Johnny Jimusho.
For the Sakurai family, shock was an understatement. Clearly, Shi Tetsuka is no ordinary woman. Being able to accomplish those things despite her situation, add the fact that she's young, it was way beyond amazing. Sakurai-san stared at her in awe. He'd met and paired his son, Sho, to different women before, but no one really match up to his liking as compared to Shi. Yuko suddenly had to restrain herself from enclosing Shi into a tight embrace, wanting to take away all the agony that their son brought to her. Mai's rage was doubled knowing that she'd endured all those things because of her brother but at the same time felt proud that she had an amazing woman as a friend and as a mother to her niece and nephew.
Shu just sighed for he knew that his brother has already confessed and atoned that sin that made the two of them came up with a plan, which they started to accomplish the day after that night when Sho first found out the truth.
One month ago
"Hey, oniichan! Why are you so drunk? I thought you'll gonna celebtate your anniversary?" He was staying up late that night for an exam.
"Shu! Oh my god..i'm worse," his brother told him hopelessly.
"Why oniichan? What do you mean?" he asked in confusion. He didn't like the smell of alcohol, and he can't understand why big men drink whenever a problem arose.
"Remember that wallpaper you were so curious about?" Sho asked him.
"Yeah, that kid who happen to be your first love?" he told his brother, of course his brother was surprised about that so he added, "Aiba-niichan told me about it, why? Did you happen to find out that you got her pregnant and now you have a 4yr old kid?" he blurted randomly, but he was shocked when his brother admitted.
"Um, yeah, I found out just now.."
"Wait? Maji? You're not denying oniichan?"
"What? Is there a reason to deny it? Besides, you saved me from all the trouble of explaining to you."
"So what's your plan oniichan? Dad's going to kill you, mom's not gonna kill you, but I think she might be upset, neechan? I don't know.."
"That's why I need your help Shu,"
That was the first time he'd seen his brother's eyes so determined about something, that in the end he couldn't help but agree in his plans.
"Do you love her oniichan?"
"Baka! If I didn't love Shi, I won't move even a single muscle knowing that she raised our kids despite the trouble I caused her and I wouldn't trouble myself thinking what if our plan doesn't work?"
"It will work oniichan. I promise. We'll make it work."
Those were his words to Sho but their own dad's intervention didn't occur to both of them that it nearly ruined the first stage of their plan. Thanks to you Shi-neechan, everything runs smoothly according to the plan again. Shu smiled and snapped himself out of his thoughts.
"So what do you need Assistant-san?" Sakurai-san spoke after minutes of listening.
"Anou~ the truth is.. my daughter is in the hospital.. and her condition isn't getting better," assistant-san bowed his head again, "So if its okay~ but.. I understand if you.."
"I'm sorry to hear about your daughter's condition sir.." Shi looked at the assistant's direction and smiled, "Um, If you want, I will be very glad to visit her if it will somehow help..but now, the atmosphere here isn't appropriate to talk about sad things, so if you don't mind, we'll talk about it after the event ne~" and smiled again.
"Hontou? Arigatou Miss Tetsuka!" assistant-san's eyes were beaming gladly," Hontou ni arigatou," and bowed again before turning his attention to his boss, "Anou~ sorry for the trouble sir."
"Its okay, since it seemed that there's no harm in Shi's side, if that's all, you can leave us now, and enjoy the event." Sakurai-san nodded as a gesture.
"Hai. I will Sir. Thank you," but before the assistant-san could leave, Reiko talked to him.
"Do you happen to know some people from the media?" she asked.
"Yes ma'am, why? Do you want to stage an interview?"
"Nope, it’s the complete opposite actually. Please don't mention about my daughter to the media, Shi wouldn't want that," and turn to Shi, "Right dear?"
"Hai.." Shi replied and looked at the assistant, bowing her head, "If its possible, please don't let them know that I'm here.. onegaishimasu."
"Yes Miss Tetsuka, don't worry. I will make sure that no one from the media will approach you" he said and bowed again before taking his leave.
+++++++++++++++
"Seriously Sho, you should go home now.." she broke away from the kiss afraid that it might wake up the kids.
"Why Shi? Are you afraid that something might happen again?" he teased her seeing the embarrassment written on her face. "After what happened last night you should expect that a lot of things might happen from now on," he said giving her a playful smile before claiming her lips once more.
Warmth spread all throughout her body, but she knew if she gives in again, it will cause more trouble. Inching her face away from him, she uttered with a more serious expression, "Sho, if you don't go home, it’s like confirming that there is REALLY something between us,."
"Why Shi? Is there really NOTHING between us?" Sho was a little hurt.
"No, its not what I me-" she was distracted by the sadness his eyes portrayed.
"Then tell me what is Shi! Damn it!" Sho was losing his cool.
"Hey, calm down will you?" she was getting a little annoyed too.
"Calm down? Shi, all these years you raised Shuri and Shuji. You let something to happen between us twice and yet act as if its nothing! Am I that really nothing to you Shi?" Sho was trembling furiously.
She sighed bitterly fighting back the urge to kiss the man whom had and still have her heart. She knew if she did that they will surely end in bed. She pulled him on a tight embrace instead until she felt him relaxed and made him look directly on her eyes. "Look Sho, your family will see through us if you sleep here. Do you want things to get more complicated than it is now?"
"I-" he was lost for words at the moment and that gave her the chance to continue speaking.
"We'll have our own time Sho, just now is not the time. Your family knew that you sent us home. If you stay here, it'll be more difficult to explain. So go home for now." She said determinedly.
"What if I lose you again Shi?" Sho asked insecurely breaking the hug.
She had to smile seeing the insecurity in him. Despite the gestures, the kisses, and the sweetness he portrayed for her in front of her family, it still bugged her that Sho didn't tell that he love her. No matter how petty a thing like "saying you love a person" looked, in love, everything is taken into account. Sometimes you need to hear it out to be assured and its something that mattered to her.
"Why do I feel that there's a pretty someone who needs NEWS' consoling power again?"
"Eh?" Shi snapped back to reality hearing that familiar voice. She was sitting in the jimusho's lounge, killing some time.
"Eh? You really had that type of expression ne~" Ryo grinned widely at her. "So what's Angel-hime doing here?"
"Just felt like sitting here watching idols talk fully about themselves," She answered pretending to be sarcastic, "How 'bout you guys? What are you doing here?" She stared at them wondering as the guys occupied the vacant seats, Ryo taking the one beside her. She noticed that one member was missing but it's not her character to be nosy so she brushed the idea off mind.
"Ah! Just so if you don't recall, this is where we work," Masuda was munching his favorite chips and threw a dirty look at Shige who snatched the bag away. "Ei choto!" his mind completely forgot that he was talking to her. Yamapi shook his head disbelievingly before grabbing a random paper to read.
"So how's the project going?" Pi asked taking a glance at her and then at the article he was reading.
"Ah, I have two weeks before meeting the sponsors," Shi replied casually, amused seeing the two members of NEWS still fighting.
"He's not talking about that, he meant the collaboration project with ARASHI-san," Ryo looked at her curiously. The last time they talked about the said group, she just cried without saying anything to them apart from the fact that she's working with ARASHI as an actress.
"Ah! Its almost done, Now there's Sh- I mean Sakurai-san to work with," Shi stiffened, she almost slipped on calling him Sho, and she knew she would receive a lot of question if she did.
"Ah sou~ oi choto mate Pi, you're reading Cyzo?" Ryo nudged Yamapi who was sitting across him, the guy just shrugged and continue reading.
"A-re? Pi-chan? That was dated months ago!" Yuya said snatching away the magazine out of their leader's hand but widened his eyes seeing the old article. "See?" he said showing them the article. It was a photo of Sho with a group of people whom Shi didn't know. "This was that time when they'd seen him together with Horikita-san," He pointed out the girl who was sitting beside Sho. "But the rumor died out instantly right?"
Kirei.. Shi felt as if she was hit by cold water seeing the photo. "Who was this Horikita-san?" She managed to ask out of curiosity.
"Ah! Bikuri shita! You don't know her?" Yuya asked.
"Tego-chan, if I do, I wouldn't have asked," She answered grimly making Yuya fringed.
"Ah, Angel-chan, gomen, he's baka sometimes," Shige put both palms together and bowed before continuing, "Horikita Maki-san, she's one of the actresses whom had done acting with most of JE idols."
"Ah.. sou ka~" She muttered painfully. So she's an actress..must have worked with him too..She thought after throwing a glance at the photo. Despite Yuya's words that it was only a rumor, she can't help but felt a sudden pang of jealousy which showed in the way she frowned. Unfortunately for her, Ryo was intently observing her from the start.
"Hey! Hime-chan? Why did your face looked sour?" Ryo smirked.
"Stop calling me a princess will you?" She answered coldly but wished she hadn't because it only made the guy more curious.
Grinning more widely, "A-re? Our princess is mad? I wonder why that is," and he ruffled her hair.
"Cut it out Ryo-chan? Can't you see? She's upset," Yuya cut the older man off.
"Upset? About what?" Ryo challenged.
"About..a-bout something," Yuya pouted. "Mou- yamete kudasai Ryo-chan, you're treating her as if she's some kind of criminal," And pouted more.
"Am I?" Ryo challenged but to no avail, "Ne~ hime-chan, did I hit a red button?"
Shi threw him a nasty look before standing up.
"Doshitano hime-chan?" Ryo held her wrist looking up at her.
"Nandemonai!" Shi snapped his hands off from hers. "I didn't know that you're such a jerk Ryo-kun." She shot him a glare before turning her attention towards the other members. "Min'na, gomen, I remember something that I need to attend to, Jya~" she bowed and sped off without waiting for their reply. She followed by Yuya who stared murderously at Ryo before running after her..
Despite what happened, the members of NEWS were surprisingly calm.
"You're good Pi, now its confirmed," Ryo smirked at the guy who just shrugged as if the idea was freaking the hell out of him.
Making sure that Yuya was not within earshot, "Screw you mate! If our sempais find out, you'll pay for this." Shige who's also part of the plan was troubled by the idea of ARASHI getting back at them, "Especially Ninomiya-san!"
"Huh! Not a chance dude, for sure they'll thank me for this," Ryo said confidently.
"But I was really surprised that the princess knows nothing about this biz," Masuda said still munching his chips.
"Yeah.. it was pretty shocking when she asked who Horikii-chan is," Pi slouched lazily on the sofa but had a weird expression on. Masuda and Shige followed suit seeing Yuya walking on his way back. They motioned Ryo to stop but were too late. The younger member could hear every word that Ryo was saying.
"Hey, why are you sulking?" Ryo furrowed an eyebrow seeing the sudden change of expression, "Haven't we just confirmed that Angel-chan is definitely inlove with Sakurai Sho and her jealousy just now is a solid proof."
"Can you repeat what you just said Ryo-chan?" Yuya said his eyes piercing the older member who nearly jumped off his seat hearing that murderous tone coming from their usually cheerful member.
++++++++++++++++++++
"You won't Sho, since you never had lost me in the first place."
That were her parting words to him last night, but Sho couldn't stop himself from worrying because Shi wasn't answering any of his calls nor replying any of his messages. I wonder what's wrong? He thought as he settled himself on one of the couch in their green room since Ohno occupied the other one. It was still supposed to be their rest day, but the jimusho suddenly called them for a photoshoot regarding this year's Kohaku.
"Hey, Sho-chan? What's with the band-aid? You know that our makeup artists were very strict, how could you be so careless?" Jun raised an eyebrow.
"Ah, gomen," Sho only shrugged.
"Eh? Who hurt our Sho-chan?" Aiba pouted before sitting beside him.
"Mai did." He placed a palm on his band-aid cheek and began telling them what happened when he got home last night.
He was all smiles when he got home and parked his car remembering what Shi told him before he left her apartment.
"You won't Sho, since you never had lost me in the first place."
Hearing those words, he almost jumped out of joy that he showered her little kisses which she just responded with a laugh.
When he entered the house, the air was all gloomy that it sent chills deep down his spine. He crammed himself in his room but what met him upstairs on his bedroom door was his sister.
"Doshita no Mai? missed me already?" At first it didn't register to him what was she doing there, only after what came next did he realized that she was angry at something, or rather at him. "Hey, I forgot that we needed to talk about-"
SLAP
"Missed you my a$s Oniichan." She hissed at him.
"What the-..where are your manners Mai?" Sho glared at him, one hand was placed on his sore cheek. Mai was about to slap him twice but Sho managed to catch his sister's hand before it landed right on his now bruised face (he realized it the moment he felt a stinging sensation on his cheek upon contacting with his sweated palm). "What's damn wrong with you Sakurai Mai?" His anger was emphasized on his every word.
"Nothin's wrong with me Sakurai Sho! I'm just fulfilling my promise to a friend to punch the guy who did all those sh*t to her. Lucky you, since she told me that girls don't punch, I slapped you instead." Mai told him smugly, her voice tensed, her face creased.
Sho was too shocked he couldn't utter even a single word that made his sister stare at him defiantly. "Oh! Did I hurt you ONIICHAN?" she said coldly.
"Mai.. I-" he was lost for words. He never knew that Mai was holding a grudge on him, more so because of a friend. ”What the fcuk" He thought. He tried so hard to recall who was that friend she was talking about but none came. As far as he knows, they seldom have common friends. And if they had, it would end up Mai hating them for the reason that those girls actually befriended her just to get close to him and it was pretty annoying in his part too. "I don't know what you're talking about..I don't understand," He was still holding his sister's hand.
"Hah! See? That's what makes you a dork Oniichan! Baka! That attitude of yours will make you lose sight of those important people in your life." Mai lowered her head and start hitting his chest with her other hand. She was trembling so hard that Sho had to let go of her hand to calm his sister. "You're so stupid Oniichan.. so stupid,," Mai kept on hitting him. "I never expected you to do such a thing..my God, she didn't deserve it!"
"Hey.. what are you talking about? I don't know this friend of yours okay?!" Sho was getting a little annoyed despite feeling helpless about the situation.
"You don't know? Or just pretending to not know?" Mai was breathing furiously. "My God Oniichan! You have two adorable kids with her and yet you're telling me you don't know? You're worse!"
Another SLAP. Another punch on the chest.
"Huh! So Mai-chan found out huh?" Jun throw him a malicious look, "You deserved that Sho."
"Jun-chan that's bad, are you saying that it's alright for Sho-chan to have those bruise on his face?" Aiba displayed a puppy eyes and pouted.
"Nope, I'm just saying that our mother deserved it," Jun chuckled ignoring Aiba's pouty lips.
"Whoah! What happened to Captain Failboat's face?" Nino had just entered the greenroom. "Too bad we're having a pictorial." Grinning madly, he squeezed himself on the couch where Ohno was sleeping. "Ohayou Oh-chan!" he said before turning back his attention on Sho. "So who's the lucky guy who did that?"
"Urm, Mai." Sho was getting restless about the topic. "And don't ask why," he added seeing the brat about to follow up his question.
"So, what did she tell you afterwards?" It was Jun again. Unlike a while ago, he was wearing a more serious expression.
"I hate you." Sho answered carelessly.
"Hey! What was that supposed to mean man?" Jun almost got on his feet hearing those words.
"Easy, I don't mean you," Sho raised an eyebrow. "It was what Mai told me."
"So she hated you huh?" Jun get back on his seat.
"It seemed." Sho kneaded his temple. What happened was actually out of his plan.
"I hate you Oniichan! Unless you make up with your kids and Angel, don't ever talk with me. That is if you have b@lls to do so." His sister said before turning her back on him.
"Watch your mouth Mai," He yelled making Mai to stop halfway towards her room just to shot a one last cold look at him and stormed her way on her room.
Remembering his sister's words, Sho had no choice but move onto the next stage. He stood and was about to leave the room when Jun asked him.
"Where are you going?"
"Um, just needed to breathe in some air," He answered deeply.
"Okay, don't stay outside for too long, or Manager-san will kill us,"
"Sure." He smiled vaguely and left the room. Sho traveled around the floor without specific destination. He was about to press the elevator's button when the door opened, revealing a pissed Tegoshi Yuya followed by the other members of NEWS. The guys nodded seeing him, but Yuya didn't give a damn and just look the other way. He ignored it and rode the elevator.
Sho didn't know why, but the moment he entered, the atmosphere give off a weird feeling which he disregarded thinking that it had something to do with the conversation with Jun awhile ago. During the ride, it was unusually slow and silent saved by their muffled breathing. Ryo was about to start a conversation when Sho's phone rang.
He looked at the screen to see who's calling. IloveShi. It took him seconds to prevent himself from actually jumping because of excitement. Finally! He thought before answering the call.
"Moshi Moshi, goodness. Why aren't you answering my call Shi? I was worried you know!" Sho held himself from raising his voice but it was enough to let the NEWS member to hear who he's talking to. The moment he mentioned Shi's name, the guys had to restrain Yuya from coming near their sempai. Luckily, the door opened, Sho nodded at his juniors before stepping out clearly unaware of what almost took place hadn't he left the elevator.
"Shi, I was wondering if I could fetch the twins after school?" He asked when he's certain that he was at the place when no one could hear him.
Why are you asking me? Ask them. The line answered in a pissed manner.
"Hey, what's wrong? Why do I have the feeling that you're mad at me?" He questioned.
I'm not mad. Jya~ I just called because you're spamming my mailbox. The line ended.
"$hit!. What have I done this time?" He muttered under his breath. He was about to call her back when his phone rang, this time it was Jun.
"What?" He answered without the usual greeting.
"Come back now, we only have 30 minutes before the photoshoot," Jun answered directly and ended the call without letting him speak.
Geez.. Why do I keep on receiving calls and end up without having the chance to talk back? Sho sighed heavily before walking back to their greenroom. I need to tell them now or it's never. His mind was filled with that thought before he began typing a message to his kids.
CHAPTER 31
-STAGE III [PRELUDE]-
"Anou~ Tetsuka-san, you mentioned that A- I mean, your daughter is friends with Oniichan. When exactly did they meet? I mean, your daughter never told me." Because she didn't know that Sho Sakurai is your oniichan.. her mind was telling her, but she continued her question, "where exactly have they met?" Mai pretended to be curious.
"Ah, that, remember when your brother took his exchange studies in the Philippines? I was expanding the business around that time, so I forced my daughter to come there with me, and there he met your brother in the university." Reiko told them casually. "I say they were quite close, that in the end, Shi introduced him to me as well."
"Oh! Oniichan is here!" It was Shu this time. Whew! That was close! Baka oniichan what took you so long? He shot a you're-so-dead kind of stare at Sho who just shrugged and continued walking towards them as if nothing happened. He was wearing a black suit that matches the theme of the event, his hair a bit ruffled but was neatly done, making him all the way gorgeous. Female guests couldn't help but gazed at him and be dazzled by his stature. He smiled at his mom showing his teeth while giving her an i-told-you-mom-i-am-gorgeous kind of look.
When the kids saw him, they acted surprised. "A-re? Sho-niichan?"
"Hey, I thought you were going somewhere else with your mom?" Sho asked but taken aback by his own question, another glare from Shu and he knew it was a mistake asking. The next question of the twins could attest to that.
"Eh? How did you know?" both kids asked in chorus.
"Ah.." Jun ,, Matsujun's name suddenly popped on his mind, "Jun told me a while ago when he invited her for coffee, don't tell me, the event she's talking about is this event?" Sho questioned.
Shu sighed. So close Oniichan! BakA!
"AH, hai," Shuri nodded "and by this event, you mean, Sakurai-ojiichan is your dad?" Shuri asked innocently.
"Um I guessed you could see that," Sho nodded and glanced around the table to see who among the guests were sitting with them and sighed in relief when he found out that it was only his kids, a vacant seat for Shi, and someone whom he hadn't expected to see even in his wildest dreams.
"Ah, Reiko-kaasan, hisashiburi.. I didn't know that you're acquainted with my parents, " He bowed in recognition before occupying the chair beside Shuri.
"Ah, Sho, sorry if I didn't tell you before because I wasn't too sure whether you were actually Sakurai-sempai's son or not. But I found out a year later that you're indeed their son." Reiko smiled warmly at him.
"Son, you didn't mention that you're friends with Reiko-san's daughter," Sakurai-san observed his son closely, remembering Reiko's words awhile ago about meeting his son five years ago, the same time when her daughter got pregnant and was left by whomever the twins' dad is.
"Ah, yes I am, but I didn't know that you're friends with her mom, and its not like you to know my friends right?" Sho answered but wished he hadn't. "Ah, gomen, I didn't mean it like that," HE added when his mom shot him a wary look before grabbing the glass of water which was served when he sat.
"Tetsuka-san told us a very interesting story about your friendship with her Oniichan, did you happen to know who the kids' dad was?" Mai suddenly asked which caused Sho to choke on his water. Luckily it didn't spill.
"Mai! That was a very rude question in front of Reiko-san," Yuko scolded her daughter before turning at Reiko with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that Reiko-san, you see my daughter's curiosity sometimes got ahead of her that she spoke without thinking."
"Ah, its okay Yuko, I don't mind, to be honest, I was also a bit curious about that," Reiko let out a cackle.
"Curious?" Yuko asked.
"If your son knew the kids' dad, you see, after their sem ended, Sho headed back to Japan and my daughter was left behind. A month after that, while Shi was in Hawaii, she'd found herself pregnant," Reiko explained amused at the mixed emotions that displayed on every member of the Sakurai Family.
Masaka~ Mai couldn't get hold of her thoughts anymore as memories of what Shi had told her kept swarming on her mind.
"I met him five years ago when he stayed in the Philippines for his exchange studies.." Angel laughed before continuing..
That's how Mai found out about their friendship and how she fell for the guy.
"..That day we decided to have our sem ender, and he had his usual doze of alcohol, while it was my first time drinking one, you see, I'm still considered as minor, besides I'm intolerant.. and then it happened. I thought it was the happiest day of my life yet it turned out that it was the saddest also. The day after what happened, I found out that he was returning to Japan. It broke my heart. I cried bitterly. I took my refuge in Hawaii after that, and then a month of staying there I found out about my pregnancy, I was scared, but there was an old man named Johnny who helped me.."
Mai could hardly breathe remembering the name of the old man who helped Angel. Johnny. Could it be? Mai thought again, but what she remembered next made her heart broke as well.
"At first, I wasn't that hurt when I found out that he's leaving, what triggered the pain were actually his words. That time I didn't know what to do, he told me that he was an idol in Japan…"
Idol. Johnny. Sakurai Shuji. Sakurai Shuri. Add the framed drawing she'd seen on top of Angel's table, the same art she used to see her brother draw and the wallpaper of his brother which clearly looked like Shuri. Then it hit her. Mai was losing her nerves, she so wanted to slap her brother.
"Anou~" Shuri waved a hand in front of her that brought her thoughts back to reality.
"Hmm?" She asked the kid smilingly.
"Where's the toilet neechan? I needed to go there," Shuri told Mai shyly before glancing at her twin who smiled playfully at her.
"Hmm, you want me to go there with you?" Mai offered.
"Iie, Shuji will go with me, just tell us the directions neechan, and we'll be fine." Shuri waved her hands while shaking her head.
"Okay, see that hallway?" Mai pointed at the long hallway going to some entrance/exit. The twins nodded. "Walk there straightly then turn right on the first corner."
"Ah, I get it neechan," Shuri stood grabbing her brother's wrist.
"Where are you going?" Sho asked.
"Toilet," the twins said in chorus and bowed before excusing themselves.
"I thought my daughter will be here as well? I wonder where she was." Reiko took as sip at her juice observing the Sakurai family through the glass, when Mai suddenly exclaimed.
"Oh!" Mai could not believe her eyes.
The guests couldn't believe it either.
From the entrance hall, there stood a woman, obviously looking for someone. She bowed elegantly to the usher when he assisted her on her coat. Her hair was straight with soft curls on its ends, set loosely to match her shoulders. She was clad in a haltered black velvet dress, cut above knee length and match with silver-strapped stilettos which were adorned with crystal gems and fashioned with black velvet lining. On her neck hang a silver-chained crystal which matches her earrings. Set upon her upper right arm was a black velvet lined bangle with a crystal enclosed in a silver casing to compliment her necklace and earrings. It was simple yet very elegant. And it made her more beautiful that she instantly stand out in the crowd.
The moment she started walking, the hall suddenly become silent as they stared admiringly at the woman whose face spelled beauty and classiness. Even models which were present at the event agreed on that.
OMG! Do I look that weird? Why was everyone staring? Shi couldn't help but thought upon seeing those eyes which turned to her that he slightly bowed her head. God..please stop staring..she muttered under her breathe when she noticed that they were still looking at her. She looked around the hall to find Mai. Now I wish I didn't take that call from Johnny.Tsk..clicked her tongue and continued searching when a man blocked her way.
"Hmm, excuse me Miss, are you alone?" The guy asked her with eyes that fluttered obviously hitting on her.
"I'm sorry, I'm looking for someone," She bowed politely and trailed off leaving the man speechless.
++++++
There's no denying it, Shi is really a woman whom any guy would want to win over, and Sho became jealous because of that. As guests observed her closely, he can't help but smile seeing how she turned down that man..The nerve! He carefully darted his eyes on her so that no one in his family could notice while feeling the demand of his own body. Sho reached for the glass of water to calm himself.
"Oh, that guy had the nerve to approach my daughter? Who does he think he is?" Reiko furrowed her eyebrows which made Sho a bit surprised that the woman shared the same sentiment as him.
"Mai, waved a hand on her so that she could directly go here without problems, the way I see it, in no time, men would surround her to have a piece of information about her.. surely you don't want Reiko to worry about that right?" Yuko asked her daughter.
"Hai. Wakata Okaasan," Mai nodded to her mom and waved a hand to her. Fortunately, Shi immediately noticed.
"Mai!" She called and the men who were starting to walk toward her backed off upon hearing her mentioned the politician's daughter add the fact that she was actually staring at the Sakurai Family. The men were dazzled when Shi walked past them, and approached the woman she had just called.
"Mai! You saved me there!" Shi sighed in relief when she got to where Mai was sitting. "I was starting to panic when they walked closer to me one by one.. Arigatou Mai!" Shi smiled, still panting hard, her eyes fixed on Mai that she didn't seem to notice Sho who was just sitting a seat away from his sister and the others as well as her own mother. When she glanced around though, the first person she saw was Sho. Shi blushed remembering what happened last night but that didn't stop her from raising an eyebrow.
For a moment Sho's eyes traveled from her head to toe, admiring the beauty that was his, as told by Jun before, before he displayed that playful smile that was very familiar to Shi.
"EH? Sho? Didn't you just tell me a while ago that you're going to your dad's event? And I had to turn down your invitation because I told you i was coming to this event with the twins. Then why are you here? Wait! Are you stalking me?" Shi asked simultaneously, still eyeing him with an i-wont-lose atmosphere.
"Me? Stalking you? Why would I do that If I can see you? And beside-" Sho answered mockingly, competing with the eye to eye contact.
"hah! Then why are you here? How about your dad's event? Isn't he going to get mad at you?" She gave a mirthless laugh that had made everyone sharing the same table felt the absurdity of the moment.
"That's what I-" Sho explained but Shi's continuous gibberish make it so hard for him.
"Wait, I-" Shi cut in.
"Hey Shi, let me finish okay?" Sho said in a slightly pissed tone. Tsk. I wonder why I fell in love with an annoyingly stubborn woman.
"Okay" she just kept on raising an eyebrow.
"Yes I did tell you that I'm coming to my dad's event, and yes I did invite you to come with me," Sho started but he was cut in midsentence again.
"Then-" Shi cut in, but Sho cut her in as well.
"Shi!" he called her name, raising his volume a little higher.
"Okay, stop beating around the bush Sho!" Shi grunted Why can't he just be direct to the point?
"I'm here because this is where I am supposed to be." Sho continued a little calmer now.
"Eh?" it was her time to get confused.
Sho smirked before clearing off her misunderstanding. "This event is sported by my dad."
"Eh?" again, she was confused.
"Eh? If you read about the invitation-" Sho carefully examined her expression, but seeing Shi as clueless about the situation, he furthered, "I supposed you have not, then that explained why you didn't realized that it was actually my dad's event where you were invited, that explained why you didn't answer me when I asked you what event you will be attending."
"Ah! I didn't read it at all because Mai told me the contents, wait," Shi turned from Mai to Sho, then back to Mai, "Mai-chan? Sakurai Mai? Eh? That means the older brother whom you're talking about, the one who was a complete dork, is actually Sho?"
Mai nodded awkwardly and smiled apologetically at her but stare angrily at her brother.
"Hey, me? A dork? What a good way to describe your older brother Mai," giving his sister a we'll-talk-about-this-later look before turning his attention back at Shi, "and you, beautiful woman, why didn't you realized that in the first place?" Sho asked, smirked at how clueless Shi was. Mai shot a glare at her older brother.
"Hey, cut it out, you children," Reiko laughed amusedly, gaining the attention of both Sho and Shi "and I don't remember raising you in that way Shi, where are your manners young woman?"
"Mama! You didn't tell me you're going back here in Japan!" Shi saw her mother for the first time.
"Aren't you going to give your mom a kiss?" Reiko asked.
"Ah! Gomen," Shi eyed Sho for a moment before stomping at his foot earning her a death glare from Sho, which she just returned with a smirk, and ran towards her mother to kiss her.
"Hora~ you shocked Sakurai-sempai and Yuko-san, introduced yourself properly will you" Reiko laughed seeing how her daughter acted childishly in front of Sho and felt satisfied with what she saw.
"Ah!" She turned to the older man and her wife, bowed politely and stood straightly, "Gomenasai. Hajimemashite, watashi wa Tetsuka Shi-desu. You can call me Shi," she bowed again.
To their surprise, Sakurai-san laughed. "Nice to meet you too Shi," he told her before glancing at her mom who was a bit surprised as well. "I didn't know that you had a very beautiful daughter Reiko, beautiful, but interesting."
"Anou~ what's interesting?" Shi asked but man just smiled. She was still on her foot, standing.
Sakurai-san motioned her to take a seat which she accepted. She looked for a vacant seat, but Sho suddenly stood and pulled the chair in between him and Mai and guided her to sit which leave her with no other options but to return the favor. However, this gesture of Sho didn't escape the eyes of the people sitting around them, especially his dad.
"Thanks," Shi smiled at him when he resumed his place. Sho just smiled back. "anou~ what's interesting?" she repeated her question.
"Normally, when a mother knew that her kids were humiliated, insulted or hurt, they will react violently, but you seemed different. The way you reacted and how you politely greeted me, its interesting. Why didn't you get mad at me knowing how I insulted your kids saying that its your plan?" He asked Shi and smiled apologetically at Reiko who stiffened hearing this revelation, "Oh yes Reiko, I actually insulted them,. But I know my place now, that's why I'm apologizing."
"You better be sempai," Reiko uttered murderously.
"Mama! My kids were not hurt okay? That's all that matters," She told her mom and turned at Sakurai-san, "About your question, I didn't get mad, because I don't feel the need to. Being a mother at 16, I had gone through a lot of humiliation in the past which was a lot worse than what you did so I really don't mind," Shi answered honestly before she added, "Besides, if I were in your shoes, I would've done the same thing..er, not that harshly though."
What a kind woman,so young but mature.. how I wish Sho..He thought but a sudden memory hit his mind. Moshikashite? Sakurai Shuji, Sakurai Shuri He panicked at the idea, but seeing how his son's eyes glittered upon seeing her, its possible. Rare case but possible, he couldn't help but smiled bitterly. Deep inside he was happy, but he knew his mind and his son's reputation can't take it.
Beside him, Yuko didn't need her son to tell her or to clarify her thoughts, for mothers really know best. Now she knew why it warmed her heart seeing the twins. She too smiled, but not bitterly, at the idea.
"Let's move on from the past shall we?" Sakurai-san suggested.
Reiko nodded grudgingly You'll pay for this.. while Shi agreed smilingly, the Sakurai family just stared at the head expectantly.
"Actually we're just talking about you Shi," Sakurai-san started which had caused Sho to feel uneasy. This didn't escape Mai. Hah! You deserved that Oniichan!
"Anou, sumimasen, but what exactly about me you're referring to?"Shi asked curiously.
"About whether my son knew the twins' dad.." Sakurai-san smiled painfully about the thought that was looming in his mind.
"Did he?" Reiko asked too. ..Now dear, let's see how both of you will handle this..It was a good thing that the twins were still at the toilet so the timing was perfect.
"Ah, why are you suddenly asking me that Mama? I-i- mean," Shi grabbed the glass of juice which nearly fell because she was shaking. Holding the glass with both hands, she took a sip, when she placed the glass down though, her mother, Sho's parents, and even Mai and Shu were still staring at her. "I mean, its rude for Sho, and besides who g-give you that idea?" Shi stammered.
"No one dear, I just thought, since you met him the same time, seemed that Sakurai-sempai wants to know too..now dear, did Sho knew?" Reiko continued. She didn't mean to put her daughter in a pinch but it was necessary.
"A'h.,hahaha" Shi laughed nervously. "Iie, i-ie, how c-could that be?" she put her hand on the table clumsily, accidentally knocking her purse and the spoon and fork which were on top of the table which made a loud thump on the floor. "Ah, gomen," She said before crouching down. She was surprised when Sho did the same movement that they were now staring at each other and their faces inches apart.
"Sho!" She whispered seeing his face near hers.
"Shshhs," Sho pulled her so that their heads were lower than the table's height clearly blocking them from the view of their parents. "Don't be so loud okay?
"But~ but," Her eyes started to water.
"Hush Shi, calm down okay? You need to calm down," Sho used the back of his hand to wipe the tears that escaped from her eyes.
"I was afraid .. what if what if?" Shi started to panic, another set of tears rolled down her eyes.
"Hey! What's wrong you two?"
They heard Sakurai-san.
"Ah- my purse opened and my things scattered, Sho was helping me." Shi lied while Sho hastily opened her purse and spread her things on the floor while at the same time pretending to put it back, buying them some time.
"What now?" She asked panicked while pretending to find her other things.
"Now listen, calm down okay? You need to pull yourself together," Sho whispered, "They will not find out, now's the wrong time..so don't stutter, it will make them suspicious," Sho touched her cheek.
"Okay..what will I tell them?" Shi asked, terror in her eyes.
Sho wanted to pull her into a hug, but he knew he couldn't afford to do that. He wanted to kiss her to calm her down, but doing so means exposing the truth. "Tell them, with calm and with confidence that I don't know."
"That's it?" Shi motioned to rub her eyes, but Sho stopped her.
"Don't! You'll ruin your makeup! That's it. Remember, calmly and confidently. Understand Shi? Its now or never," Sho smiled at her.
"Hai, I will," She smiled back. "Thanks," She muttered before putting all the contents of her purse inside her bag and sat straightly. Sho did the same and at the corner of her eye, Shi read him mouthed the word "calm" and "confidence". Okay Shi, Breathe in, Breathe out. "Ah, sorry about that, I was really clumsy at times, Sorry,.." She bowed her head.
"Don't worry dear, its okay," it was Yuko who answered.
"Now, back at the topic Shi, are you sure Sho didn't have the slightest idea who the twins' dad is?" Reiko asked her in a serious tone.
"Hai. I am sure. Sho didn't know anything about it. Sorry for the trouble Ma," Shi stared at her mom's eyes directly.
Tsk. Shin, I wish you were alive.. didn't know that your daughter will grew up like you, a stubborn kid.."Ah, its okay dear, sorry to put you in such a situation," Reiko had to let go of the topic for now. Turning to Sho, you're good Son,I didn't know what you said to my daughter, but it seemed she calmed down after that "purse" incident..She wanted to say, but instead, "You too Sho, sorry for the trouble."
"iie, I understand Reiko-kaasan," Whew! That was a close one..He said smiling politely. Little did he know, Mai was boiling out of rage that she kept sending some deadly stares at him.
"Mai? What's wrong? Why wearing such fierce look on you?" Yuko asked her daughter worriedly which brought Mai back to reality.
"Am I? Ah sorry.. just remembered something very awful.." She reasoned out and changed her expression into what seemed to be a calm face. Her mother wanted to asked further, and she knew she can't hold back if not weren't for the twins arrival. Mai sighed in relief as she tried to calm herself down. "I had this sudden urged of punching that guy, whoever he is." She meant it when she told Angel that, even if that guy happened to be her own brother.
"Mama!" the twins ran to Shi and gave her a hug before settling themselves in the chair. But not long after that, Sakurai-san's assistant approached, not to Sakurai-san's direction, but to everyone's surprise, to Shi's direction.
"Anou~" He was standing behind Sho's chair, but was facing Shi's direction. "You're Tetsuka Shi right?"
Shi stiffened upon hearing her own name called by the man whom she didn't know as Sakurai-san's assistant. OH! Not again! She thought helplessly as she recalled those paparazzi who chased after her wherever she go in the Philippines.
Sakurai-san apparently felt the awkwardness in the situation that he's the one who asked. "What are you doing assistant-san? You're scaring my guest," He scolded. Shi relaxed hearing him addressed the man as his assistant.
"Ah, no sire, I don't mean to scare her..you see my daughter is a fan of Miss Tetsuka," Assistant-san bowed his head in apology.
"Fan?" it was Sho who asked this time.
"Yes Sho-sama, two years ago, my daughter read an article about her, how she got full marks in Philippine licensure exam at 18years old, making her the first in Asia to do that,..Miss Tetsuka was featured as the cover model for TIME and other magazines and that's how my daughter began to be her fan," Assistant-san stared at her in amazement. "then recently, she found on the internet that Miss Tetsuka managed to perfect the exam here in our country as well as finishing her graduate studies in Keio on top of her class." Assistant-san enumerated all of her achievements including her very recent project with the Johnny Jimusho.
For the Sakurai family, shock was an understatement. Clearly, Shi Tetsuka is no ordinary woman. Being able to accomplish those things despite her situation, add the fact that she's young, it was way beyond amazing. Sakurai-san stared at her in awe. He'd met and paired his son, Sho, to different women before, but no one really match up to his liking as compared to Shi. Yuko suddenly had to restrain herself from enclosing Shi into a tight embrace, wanting to take away all the agony that their son brought to her. Mai's rage was doubled knowing that she'd endured all those things because of her brother but at the same time felt proud that she had an amazing woman as a friend and as a mother to her niece and nephew.
Shu just sighed for he knew that his brother has already confessed and atoned that sin that made the two of them came up with a plan, which they started to accomplish the day after that night when Sho first found out the truth.
One month ago
"Hey, oniichan! Why are you so drunk? I thought you'll gonna celebtate your anniversary?" He was staying up late that night for an exam.
"Shu! Oh my god..i'm worse," his brother told him hopelessly.
"Why oniichan? What do you mean?" he asked in confusion. He didn't like the smell of alcohol, and he can't understand why big men drink whenever a problem arose.
"Remember that wallpaper you were so curious about?" Sho asked him.
"Yeah, that kid who happen to be your first love?" he told his brother, of course his brother was surprised about that so he added, "Aiba-niichan told me about it, why? Did you happen to find out that you got her pregnant and now you have a 4yr old kid?" he blurted randomly, but he was shocked when his brother admitted.
"Um, yeah, I found out just now.."
"Wait? Maji? You're not denying oniichan?"
"What? Is there a reason to deny it? Besides, you saved me from all the trouble of explaining to you."
"So what's your plan oniichan? Dad's going to kill you, mom's not gonna kill you, but I think she might be upset, neechan? I don't know.."
"That's why I need your help Shu,"
That was the first time he'd seen his brother's eyes so determined about something, that in the end he couldn't help but agree in his plans.
"Do you love her oniichan?"
"Baka! If I didn't love Shi, I won't move even a single muscle knowing that she raised our kids despite the trouble I caused her and I wouldn't trouble myself thinking what if our plan doesn't work?"
"It will work oniichan. I promise. We'll make it work."
Those were his words to Sho but their own dad's intervention didn't occur to both of them that it nearly ruined the first stage of their plan. Thanks to you Shi-neechan, everything runs smoothly according to the plan again. Shu smiled and snapped himself out of his thoughts.
"So what do you need Assistant-san?" Sakurai-san spoke after minutes of listening.
"Anou~ the truth is.. my daughter is in the hospital.. and her condition isn't getting better," assistant-san bowed his head again, "So if its okay~ but.. I understand if you.."
"I'm sorry to hear about your daughter's condition sir.." Shi looked at the assistant's direction and smiled, "Um, If you want, I will be very glad to visit her if it will somehow help..but now, the atmosphere here isn't appropriate to talk about sad things, so if you don't mind, we'll talk about it after the event ne~" and smiled again.
"Hontou? Arigatou Miss Tetsuka!" assistant-san's eyes were beaming gladly," Hontou ni arigatou," and bowed again before turning his attention to his boss, "Anou~ sorry for the trouble sir."
"Its okay, since it seemed that there's no harm in Shi's side, if that's all, you can leave us now, and enjoy the event." Sakurai-san nodded as a gesture.
"Hai. I will Sir. Thank you," but before the assistant-san could leave, Reiko talked to him.
"Do you happen to know some people from the media?" she asked.
"Yes ma'am, why? Do you want to stage an interview?"
"Nope, it’s the complete opposite actually. Please don't mention about my daughter to the media, Shi wouldn't want that," and turn to Shi, "Right dear?"
"Hai.." Shi replied and looked at the assistant, bowing her head, "If its possible, please don't let them know that I'm here.. onegaishimasu."
"Yes Miss Tetsuka, don't worry. I will make sure that no one from the media will approach you" he said and bowed again before taking his leave.
+++++++++++++++
"Seriously Sho, you should go home now.." she broke away from the kiss afraid that it might wake up the kids.
"Why Shi? Are you afraid that something might happen again?" he teased her seeing the embarrassment written on her face. "After what happened last night you should expect that a lot of things might happen from now on," he said giving her a playful smile before claiming her lips once more.
Warmth spread all throughout her body, but she knew if she gives in again, it will cause more trouble. Inching her face away from him, she uttered with a more serious expression, "Sho, if you don't go home, it’s like confirming that there is REALLY something between us,."
"Why Shi? Is there really NOTHING between us?" Sho was a little hurt.
"No, its not what I me-" she was distracted by the sadness his eyes portrayed.
"Then tell me what is Shi! Damn it!" Sho was losing his cool.
"Hey, calm down will you?" she was getting a little annoyed too.
"Calm down? Shi, all these years you raised Shuri and Shuji. You let something to happen between us twice and yet act as if its nothing! Am I that really nothing to you Shi?" Sho was trembling furiously.
She sighed bitterly fighting back the urge to kiss the man whom had and still have her heart. She knew if she did that they will surely end in bed. She pulled him on a tight embrace instead until she felt him relaxed and made him look directly on her eyes. "Look Sho, your family will see through us if you sleep here. Do you want things to get more complicated than it is now?"
"I-" he was lost for words at the moment and that gave her the chance to continue speaking.
"We'll have our own time Sho, just now is not the time. Your family knew that you sent us home. If you stay here, it'll be more difficult to explain. So go home for now." She said determinedly.
"What if I lose you again Shi?" Sho asked insecurely breaking the hug.
She had to smile seeing the insecurity in him. Despite the gestures, the kisses, and the sweetness he portrayed for her in front of her family, it still bugged her that Sho didn't tell that he love her. No matter how petty a thing like "saying you love a person" looked, in love, everything is taken into account. Sometimes you need to hear it out to be assured and its something that mattered to her.
"Why do I feel that there's a pretty someone who needs NEWS' consoling power again?"
"Eh?" Shi snapped back to reality hearing that familiar voice. She was sitting in the jimusho's lounge, killing some time.
"Eh? You really had that type of expression ne~" Ryo grinned widely at her. "So what's Angel-hime doing here?"
"Just felt like sitting here watching idols talk fully about themselves," She answered pretending to be sarcastic, "How 'bout you guys? What are you doing here?" She stared at them wondering as the guys occupied the vacant seats, Ryo taking the one beside her. She noticed that one member was missing but it's not her character to be nosy so she brushed the idea off mind.
"Ah! Just so if you don't recall, this is where we work," Masuda was munching his favorite chips and threw a dirty look at Shige who snatched the bag away. "Ei choto!" his mind completely forgot that he was talking to her. Yamapi shook his head disbelievingly before grabbing a random paper to read.
"So how's the project going?" Pi asked taking a glance at her and then at the article he was reading.
"Ah, I have two weeks before meeting the sponsors," Shi replied casually, amused seeing the two members of NEWS still fighting.
"He's not talking about that, he meant the collaboration project with ARASHI-san," Ryo looked at her curiously. The last time they talked about the said group, she just cried without saying anything to them apart from the fact that she's working with ARASHI as an actress.
"Ah! Its almost done, Now there's Sh- I mean Sakurai-san to work with," Shi stiffened, she almost slipped on calling him Sho, and she knew she would receive a lot of question if she did.
"Ah sou~ oi choto mate Pi, you're reading Cyzo?" Ryo nudged Yamapi who was sitting across him, the guy just shrugged and continue reading.
"A-re? Pi-chan? That was dated months ago!" Yuya said snatching away the magazine out of their leader's hand but widened his eyes seeing the old article. "See?" he said showing them the article. It was a photo of Sho with a group of people whom Shi didn't know. "This was that time when they'd seen him together with Horikita-san," He pointed out the girl who was sitting beside Sho. "But the rumor died out instantly right?"
Kirei.. Shi felt as if she was hit by cold water seeing the photo. "Who was this Horikita-san?" She managed to ask out of curiosity.
"Ah! Bikuri shita! You don't know her?" Yuya asked.
"Tego-chan, if I do, I wouldn't have asked," She answered grimly making Yuya fringed.
"Ah, Angel-chan, gomen, he's baka sometimes," Shige put both palms together and bowed before continuing, "Horikita Maki-san, she's one of the actresses whom had done acting with most of JE idols."
"Ah.. sou ka~" She muttered painfully. So she's an actress..must have worked with him too..She thought after throwing a glance at the photo. Despite Yuya's words that it was only a rumor, she can't help but felt a sudden pang of jealousy which showed in the way she frowned. Unfortunately for her, Ryo was intently observing her from the start.
"Hey! Hime-chan? Why did your face looked sour?" Ryo smirked.
"Stop calling me a princess will you?" She answered coldly but wished she hadn't because it only made the guy more curious.
Grinning more widely, "A-re? Our princess is mad? I wonder why that is," and he ruffled her hair.
"Cut it out Ryo-chan? Can't you see? She's upset," Yuya cut the older man off.
"Upset? About what?" Ryo challenged.
"About..a-bout something," Yuya pouted. "Mou- yamete kudasai Ryo-chan, you're treating her as if she's some kind of criminal," And pouted more.
"Am I?" Ryo challenged but to no avail, "Ne~ hime-chan, did I hit a red button?"
Shi threw him a nasty look before standing up.
"Doshitano hime-chan?" Ryo held her wrist looking up at her.
"Nandemonai!" Shi snapped his hands off from hers. "I didn't know that you're such a jerk Ryo-kun." She shot him a glare before turning her attention towards the other members. "Min'na, gomen, I remember something that I need to attend to, Jya~" she bowed and sped off without waiting for their reply. She followed by Yuya who stared murderously at Ryo before running after her..
Despite what happened, the members of NEWS were surprisingly calm.
"You're good Pi, now its confirmed," Ryo smirked at the guy who just shrugged as if the idea was freaking the hell out of him.
Making sure that Yuya was not within earshot, "Screw you mate! If our sempais find out, you'll pay for this." Shige who's also part of the plan was troubled by the idea of ARASHI getting back at them, "Especially Ninomiya-san!"
"Huh! Not a chance dude, for sure they'll thank me for this," Ryo said confidently.
"But I was really surprised that the princess knows nothing about this biz," Masuda said still munching his chips.
"Yeah.. it was pretty shocking when she asked who Horikii-chan is," Pi slouched lazily on the sofa but had a weird expression on. Masuda and Shige followed suit seeing Yuya walking on his way back. They motioned Ryo to stop but were too late. The younger member could hear every word that Ryo was saying.
"Hey, why are you sulking?" Ryo furrowed an eyebrow seeing the sudden change of expression, "Haven't we just confirmed that Angel-chan is definitely inlove with Sakurai Sho and her jealousy just now is a solid proof."
"Can you repeat what you just said Ryo-chan?" Yuya said his eyes piercing the older member who nearly jumped off his seat hearing that murderous tone coming from their usually cheerful member.
++++++++++++++++++++
"You won't Sho, since you never had lost me in the first place."
That were her parting words to him last night, but Sho couldn't stop himself from worrying because Shi wasn't answering any of his calls nor replying any of his messages. I wonder what's wrong? He thought as he settled himself on one of the couch in their green room since Ohno occupied the other one. It was still supposed to be their rest day, but the jimusho suddenly called them for a photoshoot regarding this year's Kohaku.
"Hey, Sho-chan? What's with the band-aid? You know that our makeup artists were very strict, how could you be so careless?" Jun raised an eyebrow.
"Ah, gomen," Sho only shrugged.
"Eh? Who hurt our Sho-chan?" Aiba pouted before sitting beside him.
"Mai did." He placed a palm on his band-aid cheek and began telling them what happened when he got home last night.
He was all smiles when he got home and parked his car remembering what Shi told him before he left her apartment.
"You won't Sho, since you never had lost me in the first place."
Hearing those words, he almost jumped out of joy that he showered her little kisses which she just responded with a laugh.
When he entered the house, the air was all gloomy that it sent chills deep down his spine. He crammed himself in his room but what met him upstairs on his bedroom door was his sister.
"Doshita no Mai? missed me already?" At first it didn't register to him what was she doing there, only after what came next did he realized that she was angry at something, or rather at him. "Hey, I forgot that we needed to talk about-"
SLAP
"Missed you my a$s Oniichan." She hissed at him.
"What the-..where are your manners Mai?" Sho glared at him, one hand was placed on his sore cheek. Mai was about to slap him twice but Sho managed to catch his sister's hand before it landed right on his now bruised face (he realized it the moment he felt a stinging sensation on his cheek upon contacting with his sweated palm). "What's damn wrong with you Sakurai Mai?" His anger was emphasized on his every word.
"Nothin's wrong with me Sakurai Sho! I'm just fulfilling my promise to a friend to punch the guy who did all those sh*t to her. Lucky you, since she told me that girls don't punch, I slapped you instead." Mai told him smugly, her voice tensed, her face creased.
Sho was too shocked he couldn't utter even a single word that made his sister stare at him defiantly. "Oh! Did I hurt you ONIICHAN?" she said coldly.
"Mai.. I-" he was lost for words. He never knew that Mai was holding a grudge on him, more so because of a friend. ”What the fcuk" He thought. He tried so hard to recall who was that friend she was talking about but none came. As far as he knows, they seldom have common friends. And if they had, it would end up Mai hating them for the reason that those girls actually befriended her just to get close to him and it was pretty annoying in his part too. "I don't know what you're talking about..I don't understand," He was still holding his sister's hand.
"Hah! See? That's what makes you a dork Oniichan! Baka! That attitude of yours will make you lose sight of those important people in your life." Mai lowered her head and start hitting his chest with her other hand. She was trembling so hard that Sho had to let go of her hand to calm his sister. "You're so stupid Oniichan.. so stupid,," Mai kept on hitting him. "I never expected you to do such a thing..my God, she didn't deserve it!"
"Hey.. what are you talking about? I don't know this friend of yours okay?!" Sho was getting a little annoyed despite feeling helpless about the situation.
"You don't know? Or just pretending to not know?" Mai was breathing furiously. "My God Oniichan! You have two adorable kids with her and yet you're telling me you don't know? You're worse!"
Another SLAP. Another punch on the chest.
"Huh! So Mai-chan found out huh?" Jun throw him a malicious look, "You deserved that Sho."
"Jun-chan that's bad, are you saying that it's alright for Sho-chan to have those bruise on his face?" Aiba displayed a puppy eyes and pouted.
"Nope, I'm just saying that our mother deserved it," Jun chuckled ignoring Aiba's pouty lips.
"Whoah! What happened to Captain Failboat's face?" Nino had just entered the greenroom. "Too bad we're having a pictorial." Grinning madly, he squeezed himself on the couch where Ohno was sleeping. "Ohayou Oh-chan!" he said before turning back his attention on Sho. "So who's the lucky guy who did that?"
"Urm, Mai." Sho was getting restless about the topic. "And don't ask why," he added seeing the brat about to follow up his question.
"So, what did she tell you afterwards?" It was Jun again. Unlike a while ago, he was wearing a more serious expression.
"I hate you." Sho answered carelessly.
"Hey! What was that supposed to mean man?" Jun almost got on his feet hearing those words.
"Easy, I don't mean you," Sho raised an eyebrow. "It was what Mai told me."
"So she hated you huh?" Jun get back on his seat.
"It seemed." Sho kneaded his temple. What happened was actually out of his plan.
"I hate you Oniichan! Unless you make up with your kids and Angel, don't ever talk with me. That is if you have b@lls to do so." His sister said before turning her back on him.
"Watch your mouth Mai," He yelled making Mai to stop halfway towards her room just to shot a one last cold look at him and stormed her way on her room.
Remembering his sister's words, Sho had no choice but move onto the next stage. He stood and was about to leave the room when Jun asked him.
"Where are you going?"
"Um, just needed to breathe in some air," He answered deeply.
"Okay, don't stay outside for too long, or Manager-san will kill us,"
"Sure." He smiled vaguely and left the room. Sho traveled around the floor without specific destination. He was about to press the elevator's button when the door opened, revealing a pissed Tegoshi Yuya followed by the other members of NEWS. The guys nodded seeing him, but Yuya didn't give a damn and just look the other way. He ignored it and rode the elevator.
Sho didn't know why, but the moment he entered, the atmosphere give off a weird feeling which he disregarded thinking that it had something to do with the conversation with Jun awhile ago. During the ride, it was unusually slow and silent saved by their muffled breathing. Ryo was about to start a conversation when Sho's phone rang.
He looked at the screen to see who's calling. IloveShi. It took him seconds to prevent himself from actually jumping because of excitement. Finally! He thought before answering the call.
"Moshi Moshi, goodness. Why aren't you answering my call Shi? I was worried you know!" Sho held himself from raising his voice but it was enough to let the NEWS member to hear who he's talking to. The moment he mentioned Shi's name, the guys had to restrain Yuya from coming near their sempai. Luckily, the door opened, Sho nodded at his juniors before stepping out clearly unaware of what almost took place hadn't he left the elevator.
"Shi, I was wondering if I could fetch the twins after school?" He asked when he's certain that he was at the place when no one could hear him.
Why are you asking me? Ask them. The line answered in a pissed manner.
"Hey, what's wrong? Why do I have the feeling that you're mad at me?" He questioned.
I'm not mad. Jya~ I just called because you're spamming my mailbox. The line ended.
"$hit!. What have I done this time?" He muttered under his breath. He was about to call her back when his phone rang, this time it was Jun.
"What?" He answered without the usual greeting.
"Come back now, we only have 30 minutes before the photoshoot," Jun answered directly and ended the call without letting him speak.
Geez.. Why do I keep on receiving calls and end up without having the chance to talk back? Sho sighed heavily before walking back to their greenroom. I need to tell them now or it's never. His mind was filled with that thought before he began typing a message to his kids.