CLASSMATES 34/? (an update! finally..)
a/n: its been a while. I know.. hmm.. just let me described what happened in 6 words: Laptop.virus.files.corrupted.classmates.deleted. that's it. Sorry for the long wait. I missed you guys badly T.T. If you had trouble recalling what happened before this chapter, read it here. Comments are still loved..
CHAPTER 34
-Unfair-
Shi? Where are you right now?
Shi heard Sho asked in somewhat unemotional tone over the phone that she didn't bother to elaborate.. "Home."
Were the twins there?
"They're still not here, but-" She answered but was disturbed by the guy's sudden outburst.
SH*T. Fcuk.!
She could hear a clicking and banging sound from the background that were enough to make her worried over Sho. "Hey. What's wrong with you? Why are you speaking to me like that?"
Sorry…I'm sorry..
There was a paused on the other line but Shi waited until Sho calmed down.
Ne~ Shi.. please don't leave the apartment..whatever happens, please don't leave..
"But I have plans tonight.."She raised an eyebrow hearing his words, unable to comprehend what has been running on the idol’s mind.
Couldn't you cancel it?
After hearing that pleading tone coming from Sho, Shi was tempted to say yes, but remembering what was at stake on her situation, she certainly could not. "No..mom summoned me.."
Oh..
"Sho? Is there something wrong? Did something weird happen to you?" Shi asked full of concern.
Nope.. ah.. I think there's nothing to worry about..
Sho sounded so relieved from what she told him, so she asked. "What do you mean?Are you sure you’re okay?"
Yeah.. don’t worry, nothing has happen.. but Since its Reiko-kaasan, I think it’s a good thing.. just please take care okay?
No! She wanted to tell him, but based on his restrained voice she knew that something was worrying Sho, and certainly she doesn't want to add up onto whatever he was going through right now. Instead Shi remained silent and blinked back the tears which were stubbornly escaping from her eyes.
Ne~ Shi.. no matter what happens..remember this.. I will do anything to protect our kids.. jaa~
"Hey~ why do you have-" Shi was bothered by the oddity of the event but Sho hanged up before she could even manage to explain.
Shi sighed heavily after hearing the end beep..No Sho..my mother summoning me..it will never be a good thing for us..well at least for you it’s a good thing..Now that the call ended, she let her tears rolled down her cheeks creating a single-lined streak on her makeup-face until she heard the doorbell ring. She wiped her tears with napkin and re-apply a foundation and went to see who her visitor was.
"I was ordered by your mother to fetch you Tetsuka Shi-sama." The old man in suit bowed when she opened the door. She glanced at the clock, it was almost the time.
"Right. I will just get my purse and fixed my hair." She smiled faintly at the butler who also smiled with a hint of worry in his wrinkled eyes.
"Are you okay Shi-sama?" He asked in a fatherly tone. "You seemed upset about something."
To her surprise, beads of tears started rolling down her cheeks once more revealing her troubled frame. The old-man-turned-butler just stood there and let her be. She was on that state for a couple of minutes until the old man offered her a handkerchief which she gratefully accepted.
"Thanks-"
"Nakahara Takeshi at your service Shi-sama," Nakahara-san smiled.
"Hai. Arigato Nakahara-san," Shi smiled back feeling a little bit refreshed after crying.
+++++++
"What happened Sho? What did she tell you?"
"My kids aren't home yet, damn." Sho punched the wall. "Its past 7pm and they're still weren't home!"
"Hey.. calm down.." Jun restrained the older guy on hitting the wall again.
"Sho-chan should call Sakurai-ojichan.." Aiba muttered earning him deadly stares from the guys. "What? I just thought its best to call him first to make sure that he has the twins.."
"Aiba-chan's right, what if they were kidnapped by others? Its always best to check." Nino stood and handed Sho his phone. When Sho just stared at it, "Tsk. I'm doing a good deed by letting you use my phone free of charge."
"Why?" Sho furrowed his eyebrows.
"Why? Because it's not good to use your own number at times like this," the brat pulled his hand and shoved the phone on it. "Now call."
Sho nodded at Nino who just smiled and dialed his old man's number without bothering to keep a distance from the guys. When the other line picked up, "Its me."
Oh Sho, why the sudden call?
He could picture his dad with a devilish grin that he couldn't stop himself from raging. "Lay a finger on my kids and I swear I might forget that you're my father!"
"Oh..so my son is threatening me? Hah! Remember the position you're in boy! If there's someone here who are at most in inconvenience, its certainly not me Sho. But I must say, you have two adorable kids here, it will be a waste if something were to happen.."
"Otousan! For God's sake! They're your grandchildren!" Sho shouted, his voice echoing on the four corners of their greenroom.
The man on the other line roared in laughter. "You know me Son. Emotions don't work on me. Besides, you abandoned them for how many years? almost five years.. why the sudden change of heart Sho? Now hurry up boy! Get your fat a$$ here, because you're omiai partner would be here soon. And fixed that attitude of yours Sho. I don't want to be embarrassed." And end the call without waiting for him to speak.
"What did he say?" Jun asked although based from their mother's reaction, it was clearly that Sakurai-san was up to no good.
"He had them," Sho said through gritted teeth.
"Now.. you really should go Sho.. if there's anyone here who knows what your dad was capable of doing it was certainly not us, but you." Ohno, as usual, told him calmly.
"Ridaa's right Sho-chan.. poor kids,.. they must be having a hard time now.." Aiba pouted and cringed at the thought.
"Baka! You shouldn't let your mind run wild like that!" Jun poked the older man's head. "But dude, I think you really should go.. since the place was not that far from here.." he told him before pulling his phone out of his pocket and placed a call.
While Jun was talking animatedly over the phone, Nino approached Sho and patted his shoulder, "Yeah.. do it for your kids' sake..and for Shi." Nino felt his throat parched saying the girl's name.
"Un-" before the rapper could say anything further, there was a knock on the door while at the same time they heard their youngest member said over the phone "You're here already? That was fast," Jun rolled his eyes before going to the door and opened it.
"Yeah. Because I was in the changing room when you called." The guy answered Jun's question not on the phone but personally before turning his attention on them, "Konbanwa ARASHI-san,"
"Toma-kun?" Nino stated.
"Ne~ what was Toma-kun doing here?" Aiba asked baffled.
"Ah~ Jun asked me if I have a spare suit for Sakurai Sho-kun," Ikuta Toma let himself in when Jun motioned him to enter, "And I said I have, then I thought, I should deliver it , so here" he swiveled the hangered-suit which was still wrap on plastic off his shoulder and swayed them in front of Sho. "Hmm, I think it will fit him."
"Why did Sho-chan need it?" Aiba asked.
"Of course, if he's going to an omiai-" Toma paused when the guys shot him a surprised look. "Jun told me, don't worry I atleast know how to keep a secret, that is if you meant to keep it a secret."
"Of course!" the guys said in chorus.
"Right, as I was saying, if he plans to go to that event, then he really would need a suit, and I think that was also what Jun had in mind when he asked me for it," Toma explained.
"Right, are you planning to go there in shirt and rugged jeans and make matters worse Sho-chan?" Jun asked.
"No.. of course not," Sho shook his head.
"Yosh, that's settled then. Jaa~ I believe I have no business here," with that said, Toma went out of the room.
"Now, Sho, what are you standing there for? The time's running. Hurry, and change!" Jun ordered.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
Shi glanced around and was captivated by what she had seen. All her unhappy thoughts were set aside for awhile the moment they entered the hall. As expected of her mother-- everything was prepared with elegance. From the flowers, the vases, the table and the cloth used, even the draperies hanging by the wall- all come from finest makers. The moment the guests set eyes on her, she had that uneasy feeling which was familiar as it was like the time when she attended Sakurai-san’s party. Luckily for her, Nakahara was there to support her.
“Daijobu?.” The butler asked worriedly. “This way Shi-sama..” He led her all the way to a line of rooms past the hall where the flower arrangement party was being held.
“Whoaah. I never expected this building to hold so much rooms, I thought it only houses parties and programs?” Shi stared questioningly at Nakahara.
“Ah, when was the last time you’d been here Shi-sama?” the butler asked while walking still aware of the people that had been staring at Shi.
“Um.. the last time was about 10 years ago..” She answered while eyes on the set of doors which had that classy style, again, as expected of her mother.
“That’s why.. your mother had it renovated to accommodate guests who want to spend the night, later you’ll see that some rooms where purposely made for seminars also..and that’s where I’m taking you..” Nakahara smiled knowingly which Shi received with a nod.
“Ah.. I see..” Shi was walking absentmindedly until her attention was caught by the silhouette of a man whom she never expected to see. Of all places.. why here? Shi can’t help but panicked upon realizing that the man was staring back at her, and, moments later, was now walking towards her.
No! She thought and stood behind her butler hoping to avoid him but was too late, for Sho had already got hold of her hand.
“Let me go..” Shi had terror in her eyes. Thinking just what her mom will do when she found out that Sho was within the same hall as she was in; she knew she can’t bear it.
“No.. I won’t.. why Shi? What are you doing here?..” Sho asked demandingly, his eyes grew livid seeing how frightened she was. Tell me Shi.. what is it? Why do you look so troubled? He can’t help but thought but shut his mouth and waited for her reply, but what came next stirred more of his anger.
“Its none of you’re business..” Shi trembled. She knew her words were cutting him deeply and were somehow making him more furious, but she had no choice.
“Of course it is! Damn it..” Sho’s voice roared in rage.
For the first time, Shi felt grateful that the hall was packed with guests, who were talking excitedly with each other, that they didn’t seem to notice Sho’s outrage. As they continue walking, with Sho dragging her forward, she can’t help but feel insecure, and her terror doubled as she realized the weight of the situation.
“Hey where are you taking me?” Shi halted making an eye contact with him.
“Shut up and follow.” Sho answered without looking at her, his eyes kept searching for something which she supposed as the place where they were heading that she still insisted even if the chance of him listening to her was moot.
“Wait. I said wai-” Shi protested but was cut in midsentence by Sho who stared murderously at her, making her pursed her lips and followed quietly.
The idol continued walking while hands still holding hers. Thoughts of what he was about to do kept playing on his mind..
Just a moment ago.
He was walking aimlessly around the hall, indifferent to his surroundings. He knew that people were staring, but the hell he cares. There had been so many things occupying his mind that time that even those women who staged their brightest smile at him, those men who were arrogantly looking at him didn’t have the slightest effect on him. In fact, nothing can fill his mind more than what was about to happen, and how would it affect his life forever. His consolation was just, he’s doing it for the sake of his kids and for the woman he loves-then an unexpected thing happen. At first he thought he was just daydreaming. He thought it was just his eyes playing tricks on him that even his object of affection had suddenly appeared before him. He had to scratch his eyes and pinched himself just to make sure.
There she was- clad in a beautiful kimono, accompanied by an old man whom he assumed to be her butler for the night. She looked very classy from head to toe that it seemed to him as a dejavu when guests turned their heads to adore her beauty. A familiar surge of jealousy flowed inside him that he needed to muster all his control in order to restrain his self from running in her side and make a very intriguing scene.
When they walked past the guest and past the hall, blessed that butler for supporting her, he can’t believe that her eyes fortunately landed at the same time when he was staring at her-then a sudden idea hit him. And he knew he had to do it. He knew it was the right thing to do, for never in his wildest dreams do he dreamt of his life away from his beloved…
“We’re here,” Sho stopped dead on his tracks upon seeing the number which hanged elegantly against the door.
Taking a deep breath, he turned the knob and pushed open the door in a slightly hard manner, making the thing create a banging sound which gained the attention of the people present in the room.
“Let’s go.”
Sho told her with an assured voice that Shi began wondering what she was doing there when she was supposed to meet her mother along with some bachelors whom she assumed to be sons of big companies.
He probably sensed her reluctance because she was a few second late when she realized that Sho was already pulling her towards the long table where his family was sitting along with a woman whose back was facing against them.
“Otousan, okaasan, I’m sorry, I can’t possibly marry the woman whom you had purposed for me to marry, for I already have someone in my heart.” He said with conviction making her all the more anxious about the situation.
All heads turned to them, especially to her and to their hands which were still entwined with one another.
“Oh I see you have brought her here, why, I thank you Sho.. I was so nervous that she would back out from our deal.” The other woman said in delight with her back still facing them.
For a moment, the two glanced at the woman, whose face was still unknown, pondering upon the words they had just heard, but Sho’s mind was largely filled with the current situation that he didn’t try hard to understand what she meant.
“You were saying something son?” Sakurai-san asked distracting the two of their thoughts.
“Yes. As I was saying otousan, before this woman interrupted, I love Shi, you had seen her before right? She’s the mother of my kids whom you had abducted and whose mother was one of your kohai, and whose late father was one of your colleagues,” Sho talked continuously, completely ignoring what he had just heard. He didn’t know where his confidence came from, but all he knew was at that moment, he had to stand up for Shi and his kids.
“You listen Sho, a deal is a deal! Aren’t you ashamed of our visitor? She could hear all the things you were saying”
“No Otousan, you listen. So what if she could hear me? Its better that she finds out that I only love one woman, and that is Shi, not any daughters from those political friends of yours.”
There was a long moment of silence, saved by their breaths. The father and son were eyeing each other immensely, sizing each other as if the one who’ll break the eye contact would be declared the loser. As the silence grew longer, Sho had the time to think over, to think of what had just occurred, particularly the words of the woman who was still unknown to him, until his eyes widened- so big that if there was no skin supporting it, his eyeballs would come out of its socket, for he was so excited yet nervous about the thing he had just realized.
--WAIT,” Sho paused, his eyebrows furrowed a couple of millimeters away from each other, while organizing his train of thoughts. “Wait.” Sho said this time with his eyes closed. When he opened it again, he held the other woman’s shoulder with his free hand and uttered, “I think I heard this woman-“
“You see, I’m not “this woman” Sho,” The other woman turned her head, smiled, “Seriously, I never expected that you are this slow son..” and laughed the kind of laugh which even Shi hadn’t heard of.
“Eh? Reiko-kaasan? What are you doing here?..”
“Mama?”…
Both had the same expression- a mixture of surprise, delight, fear and anything which goes with the saying “expect the unexpected”, for surely, Shi and Sho never expected that moment.
“Then..” It was Shi who first recover from the state of shock. Being a smart lass she was, she had somehow concluded what was going on with the situation. Her instincts were proven when the people sitting around the table started laughing that Shi found herself dumbstruck on a situation while still tangled with Sho who was nowhere near okay, or, “not sane” was maybe the right term to describe his discomfort.
“Wait!.- If I may recall, Sho mentioned about my kids being abducted? What do you mean?” The laughter died when Shi’s glaring eyes darted on the direction where Sakurai-san was sitting. “You abducted my kids? How dare yoU!” she snapped.
“Whoah.. easy child..” Sakurai had to raise his two hands upward as a sign of apology. “ I’m sorry about that.. it’s the only way I had thought of to make my son agree on this omiai…”
“Wait.. you mean you didn’t abducted them?” Sho reacted for the first time after hearing what his father said, “Otousan~ ..” and pouted.
“Silly.. why would I do that..is that how bad you think of me son?” Sakurai-san stared curiously at his son then at his wife, “See? I told you Yuko, its your fault you raise him that way,”
“Hey dear, don’t put the blame on me.. besides, the whole “abducting thing” was your idea.. I told you that Sho wouldn’t like it.. even Mai and Shu were against it.” Yuko(?) hissed at her husband then smiled apologetically at Sho who was again at loss for a moment.
“Wait- you knew about this and you didn’t told me?!” Sho stared deadly at his two siblings who just shrugged and smiled innocently while muttering silent apologies to him. “But..But I called Shi.. a while ago, she told me that the twins aren’t home yet..and I was worried so I called otousan and he confirmed it..”
“Baka- of course dad would say that he had your kids..you’re really stupid oniichan-“
“Watch your words Mai,” Sakurai-san cut his daughter’s speech and turned his attention on Sho who seemed to be waiting for an explanation, ”Of course they weren’t at home.. and Shi, mind to tell my son why?” the old man looked expectantly at Shi who cringed upon hearing her own name mentioned by the man who was possibly her kids’ abductor.
“How am I supposed to know why? You abducted them right..?” She answered coldly.
“I told you.. I did not!” Sakurai-san was losing his patience.
“Child, please..think .. Now think why the twins were not at home...” Yuko said pleadingly while hands on her husband’s to calm the old man.
“Shi, are you sure you don’t know why?” It was Reiko this time.
Like Sho, Shi paused for a moment to think, until it hit her.
“Ah… of course! They…they.. mentioned about having a sleepover in school…” Shi processed on her mind what she had just said and nearly poked herself for forgetting about those details, if not for Sho restraining her hands that they received another set of laughter from their audience, who happened to be Sho’s mom and dad, Mai, Shu, and Shi’s mom.
“Right.. but I didn’t expect you to forget about that..really child, what had gotten into you?” Reiko was shaking her head in disbelief that her daughter had forgotten that detail.
“Sorry.. I was too preoccupied by what you told me-“ Shi raised an eyebrow remembering what had been “at stake” on her situation, “MOM! … why am I the one whose apologizing?.. It was all your fault!” Shi’s temper was rising.
“What do you mean?” Reiko asked innocently as if she had done nothing.
“You’re a bad actress Mama!” Shi pouted at her mom.
“Hah! If I am, then do tell me Shi, why did you come here?” Reiko asked mockingly.
“That’s bec-“ Shi placed a hand over her mouth. As much as she wanted to reason out, she can’t, for her reason was something that was very embarrassing to say, especially in front of Sho.
“Stop torturing your daughter Reiko, its been too much for the her..” Yuko smiled warmly.
“Yeah.. its been too much for your son also..” Reiko smiled back.
“Mou~ why don’t we just let oniichan and oneechan sit first?” Shu butt in the conversation.
“Yeah, Shu’s right Okaasan, Im sure they’re both impatient to hear some explanation from us, especially from Otousan and from Reiko-kaasan,” Mai winked at Shi who smiled exhaustedly because of what happened.
“I’m sure you two were old enough to hear what your sister had just said, now occupy the blank seat.” Sakurai-san commanded.
“Wait.” The two said in chorus.
“What now?” the old man asked.
“Not until you promised to tell us what the hell really happened. And why it so happened that the two of us ended as omiai partners.” Sho answered demandingly.
“Wasn’t that the reason why I was asking you two to sit first so that we could discuss?” Sakurai-san said sarcastically. “Now save your questions later and sit!”
“Just making sure otousan,” Sho grinned devilishly before pulling out a chair to let Shi sit first and afterwards sat beside her.
“What now?” Sho asked the moment they were seated across with his family and Reiko.
“Tsk, too impatient.” Reiko’s comment earned her two questioning looks from Shi and Sho, and curious stares from the members of Sakurai Family. “I wonder where he could have inherited that trait sempai?” Reiko’s eyes turned to Yuko.
“Don’t ask me Reiko, I was wondering about that too.”
“Since you two are being stubborn unless we tell you, let’s start from when I first found out. But I’m warning you, it might get a little boring,” Reiko started.
“Nothing’s boring when talking about the truth Mama, so please continue.” It was Shi who ansered.
“Okay, then listen, ”….
About more than a month ago..
"Sir, Reiko Tetsuka-san is outside waiting in the lounge."
Reiko heard the secretary told the boss. Johnny probably replied with a nod because seconds after that, she was being allowed to enter the office and was asked to sit by the old man whose smile was beaming yet at the same time looked pale.
“Did something good happen? You were all smiles but you look pale.” She asked.
“Oh yes, Im fine..just a little tired I guess. Old man’s age.. I had just finished talking with Shi,” the old man replied happily.
“With my daughter? Oh what about her? Was that the reason why you looked cheerful?”
The old man nodded.
“Why?”
“Hmm.. “Johnny seemed to be very careful with his words. “She told me something very interesting,”
“And that had something to do with?”
“with her feelings toward the twin’s dad,” Johnny replied shortly.
“Oh. I see. So you’re going to tell me now after hiding it from me for too long?”
“Yes why not Reiko? There’s no point denying it now because even the twins knew about it.”
“Oh~ so you told my grandkids?”
“Nope, they just found out. You know very well that those two were clever.”
“Yes I know..then do tell me Ojii, who was the bastard?”
“Reiko, do you happen to know your grandkids’ last name?”
“Oh yes, Shi told me.. she named them Tetsuka-“ but seeing Johnny’s bitter expression, “..or not?”
“Its Sakurai.”…………
“Mind you Sho, after hearing the twins’ last name, I almost ran out and headed to your greenroom if not for Johnny-ojii’s convincing me not to do reckless things,” Reiko told them spitefully. “You should really be grateful to that old man.”
“I am ma’am,” Sho bowed his head in embarrassment.
“But, Kitagawa-san never mentioned oniichan’s name, I wonder how you knew that it was him?” Shu couldn’t stop his self from asking.
“Oh, good question Shu-kun,. You see.. if you remember, at the party, I mentioned how these two [pointing at Shi and Sho] were really good friends, to the extent that your brother would spend the night at my daughter’s apartment, and vice versa..besides, I know my daughter, she wouldn’t do something, unless, she’s sure of it..”
“But still, if you knew that much,. How come, from the very beginning, you never expected that Shuri and Shuji’s dad is oniichan?” it was Mai who asked this time.
“Oh, that was simple Mai-chan.. it was pure trust. I trusted your brother, especially, he’s older, not to mention, way older that time, and Shi was just 16..so I thought he knew what should and should not be done,. but I was wrong,” Reiko answered coolly.
“I’m sorry…” Sho apologized. It was the only thing he could do at the moment.
“No need son, there’s no point dwelling on past events,.. “
“But still-“
“Do you still want to hear how we ended up with a situation like this, or you’ll just keep on apologizing?” Reiko interrupted Sho’s next words that made the idol silent for awhile. “Right, so moving on, I think its time to hear Sempai’s version this time.”
All heads turned to the man in question. Sighing heavily, Shi listened with a pained heart. Its going to be a long night for all of them.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
“I must say, I was quite impressed when Sho entered this room and revealed himself and his feelings. It was splendidly done. But I’m troubled about one thing.”
“Why, thank you Reiko-kaasan,” Sho smiled confidently, “Do tell me, what was it that you’re troubled about?”
“Your feelings Sho. How can I be certain that its real and not just because your situation demands for it?”…
As Sho drove along the way to her apartment, Shi gazed upon the city’s night light through the darkened window of his car while her mother’s words and how Sho just smiled as an answer to that question kept playing and playing on her mind like a never ending story. What if Mom was right?..- her mind was full of ‘what ifs’ , each one demanding an answer, each one, taking away her courage bit by bit, until she felt herself crying silently, while eyes still on the road, in a slanted angle, so that Sho wouldn’t notice her misery. The last thing she needed was the guy consoling her because of those things especially if she was too confused about their situation. What had happened was enough, and Shi knew she couldn’t trouble him further.
“Shi? We’re here..” Sho tapped her shoulder gently before assisting her off from the seatbelt.
“Oh..how long had it been since we arrived?” Shi asked while avoiding his eyes.
“About 10 minutes..” Sho was caught off guard seeing her reaction. “Shi, are you okay?”
Still looking on the other side, “Yeah.. just a bit tired. I guess a good sleep will suffice,” she answered with a hesitant smile then opened the car door without waiting for Sho to open it for her and sped out of the car. “You should be going too..its late.” She didn’t wait for a reply, nor look back and continued walking towards her door, tears began swelling in her eyes- those which she had been restraining from falling while still on Sho’s car, fell aimlessly, without missing any single second that made her frame tremble.
Still on the car, Sho wondered what was wrong, while battling whether to follow and seek her out or not. Staring at her retreating figure with curious eyes through the dim light which shone above her, Sho noticed that she was trembling as if she was crying. He didn’t know, but his feelings told him that it had something to do with his reaction a while ago.
“SHI!” He called out but she continued walking. Sho stepped out of his car and ran after her, madly as if his life dependent on it. When he reached her though, Sho tried turning her around, but she became reluctant. Instead, Shi continued walking until she was in front of her apartment door that he had no choice but wound his arms around her from the back. Whispering, “Shi..tell me, what’s wrong?” Sho embraced her tightly when Shi tried to free herself from him.
“Let me go..” Shi said in broken voice and Sho knew that she was crying, for how long, he didn’t know. But one thing is certain, it was because of him.
“No, I won’t let go of you Shi..,” He answered determinedly.
“Stop pretending Sho.. we’re no longer in front of our parents.. so please stop it..You’re safe now.. the kids were safe now..” Shi said hurting and began shaking, not bothering to hide her tears from him.
“Pretending?” Forcing her to turn around, “Look at me Shi, do I look like someone who’s been pretending?” Sho shot her a pained expression.
“I don’t know Sho.. I don’t know anymore,” Taking his hands off her shoulders, Shi her face with both hands and spoke in muffled voice, “I don’t know if I should believe you..”
“Why Shi? Why is it too hard for you to believe me?” He snapped her hands away from her eyes and made her look at him in the eyes.
“Because the last time I believed you, you had hurt me!” Shi stared at him piercingly, her eyes red from crying. “You hurt me real bad Sakurai Sho! Now, am I supposed to believe someone who can’t even answer my mom’s question awhile ago? How am I to take the words of a man who almost subjected himself into an omiai?”
“That’s for our kids’ sake damn it!” Sho lost his temper. “And look who’s talking! Hah! Hadn’t you almost met up with different bachelors if not for my interference awhile ago?!”
Its for your sake damn you!. But instead Shi said, “Hah! I told you, its none of your damn business Sho!”
“And I told you it is! Whether you like it or not it is! Besides, you’re questioning my going into an omiai and yet you didn’t want me to interfere with yours? What an unfair thing to do Shi!”
“Unfair? Five years ago, you left me right after what happened between us. Heck, you even left me with kids, but I still raised them, I moved on with my life, without you helping..I tried hard to be happy and not a day-- my mom, Johnny-jiichan, even the twins, not even once, did they hear me complaining about it.. and then you’ll suddenly appear and talk about me being unfair?..oh no no, Don’t preach about fairness, when you yourself doesn’t know what that word means.” Shi paused for a couple of heartbeat then raised a finger and pointed it against his chest, “And fro your information Sakurai Sho, I came to that omiai for your sake,” still pointing on his chest.
Shi began crying that Sho stood there speechless, unable to move. He was lost for words because what she said was all true, and it stabbed him deeply.
“I agreed to go with it because Mama threatened that she would do something with your career, and I know that it would hurt you deeply..”
“Shi..” Sho still couldn’t find the right words.
“You must be thinking how pathetic I am .. but you’re right.. I must really be going out of mind..of all those years..I thought I had forgotten.. I thought I had buried it deeply, but you see, just after a day of seeing you again the night of your group’s anniversary, I couldn’t get you out of my mind..and it was very frustrating.” Shi wiped the tears off from her eyes then stared seriously at him. “Now tell me Sakurai Sho, who between us was being unfair? You, going to an omiai for the sake of the twins, or me going to an omiai because of the man I love who doesn’t love me-”
“I love you Shi, I told that in front of our parents right?” Sho interrupted her sentence by holding her chin up “Wasn’t that enough of a reason for you to believe me?” He asked before bridging the gap between them, kissing the tears that still continuously falling from her eyes, until his lips claimed hers.
*********so what do you think will happen next?:)
CHAPTER 34
-Unfair-
Shi? Where are you right now?
Shi heard Sho asked in somewhat unemotional tone over the phone that she didn't bother to elaborate.. "Home."
Were the twins there?
"They're still not here, but-" She answered but was disturbed by the guy's sudden outburst.
SH*T. Fcuk.!
She could hear a clicking and banging sound from the background that were enough to make her worried over Sho. "Hey. What's wrong with you? Why are you speaking to me like that?"
Sorry…I'm sorry..
There was a paused on the other line but Shi waited until Sho calmed down.
Ne~ Shi.. please don't leave the apartment..whatever happens, please don't leave..
"But I have plans tonight.."She raised an eyebrow hearing his words, unable to comprehend what has been running on the idol’s mind.
Couldn't you cancel it?
After hearing that pleading tone coming from Sho, Shi was tempted to say yes, but remembering what was at stake on her situation, she certainly could not. "No..mom summoned me.."
Oh..
"Sho? Is there something wrong? Did something weird happen to you?" Shi asked full of concern.
Nope.. ah.. I think there's nothing to worry about..
Sho sounded so relieved from what she told him, so she asked. "What do you mean?Are you sure you’re okay?"
Yeah.. don’t worry, nothing has happen.. but Since its Reiko-kaasan, I think it’s a good thing.. just please take care okay?
No! She wanted to tell him, but based on his restrained voice she knew that something was worrying Sho, and certainly she doesn't want to add up onto whatever he was going through right now. Instead Shi remained silent and blinked back the tears which were stubbornly escaping from her eyes.
Ne~ Shi.. no matter what happens..remember this.. I will do anything to protect our kids.. jaa~
"Hey~ why do you have-" Shi was bothered by the oddity of the event but Sho hanged up before she could even manage to explain.
Shi sighed heavily after hearing the end beep..No Sho..my mother summoning me..it will never be a good thing for us..well at least for you it’s a good thing..Now that the call ended, she let her tears rolled down her cheeks creating a single-lined streak on her makeup-face until she heard the doorbell ring. She wiped her tears with napkin and re-apply a foundation and went to see who her visitor was.
"I was ordered by your mother to fetch you Tetsuka Shi-sama." The old man in suit bowed when she opened the door. She glanced at the clock, it was almost the time.
"Right. I will just get my purse and fixed my hair." She smiled faintly at the butler who also smiled with a hint of worry in his wrinkled eyes.
"Are you okay Shi-sama?" He asked in a fatherly tone. "You seemed upset about something."
To her surprise, beads of tears started rolling down her cheeks once more revealing her troubled frame. The old-man-turned-butler just stood there and let her be. She was on that state for a couple of minutes until the old man offered her a handkerchief which she gratefully accepted.
"Thanks-"
"Nakahara Takeshi at your service Shi-sama," Nakahara-san smiled.
"Hai. Arigato Nakahara-san," Shi smiled back feeling a little bit refreshed after crying.
+++++++
"What happened Sho? What did she tell you?"
"My kids aren't home yet, damn." Sho punched the wall. "Its past 7pm and they're still weren't home!"
"Hey.. calm down.." Jun restrained the older guy on hitting the wall again.
"Sho-chan should call Sakurai-ojichan.." Aiba muttered earning him deadly stares from the guys. "What? I just thought its best to call him first to make sure that he has the twins.."
"Aiba-chan's right, what if they were kidnapped by others? Its always best to check." Nino stood and handed Sho his phone. When Sho just stared at it, "Tsk. I'm doing a good deed by letting you use my phone free of charge."
"Why?" Sho furrowed his eyebrows.
"Why? Because it's not good to use your own number at times like this," the brat pulled his hand and shoved the phone on it. "Now call."
Sho nodded at Nino who just smiled and dialed his old man's number without bothering to keep a distance from the guys. When the other line picked up, "Its me."
Oh Sho, why the sudden call?
He could picture his dad with a devilish grin that he couldn't stop himself from raging. "Lay a finger on my kids and I swear I might forget that you're my father!"
"Oh..so my son is threatening me? Hah! Remember the position you're in boy! If there's someone here who are at most in inconvenience, its certainly not me Sho. But I must say, you have two adorable kids here, it will be a waste if something were to happen.."
"Otousan! For God's sake! They're your grandchildren!" Sho shouted, his voice echoing on the four corners of their greenroom.
The man on the other line roared in laughter. "You know me Son. Emotions don't work on me. Besides, you abandoned them for how many years? almost five years.. why the sudden change of heart Sho? Now hurry up boy! Get your fat a$$ here, because you're omiai partner would be here soon. And fixed that attitude of yours Sho. I don't want to be embarrassed." And end the call without waiting for him to speak.
"What did he say?" Jun asked although based from their mother's reaction, it was clearly that Sakurai-san was up to no good.
"He had them," Sho said through gritted teeth.
"Now.. you really should go Sho.. if there's anyone here who knows what your dad was capable of doing it was certainly not us, but you." Ohno, as usual, told him calmly.
"Ridaa's right Sho-chan.. poor kids,.. they must be having a hard time now.." Aiba pouted and cringed at the thought.
"Baka! You shouldn't let your mind run wild like that!" Jun poked the older man's head. "But dude, I think you really should go.. since the place was not that far from here.." he told him before pulling his phone out of his pocket and placed a call.
While Jun was talking animatedly over the phone, Nino approached Sho and patted his shoulder, "Yeah.. do it for your kids' sake..and for Shi." Nino felt his throat parched saying the girl's name.
"Un-" before the rapper could say anything further, there was a knock on the door while at the same time they heard their youngest member said over the phone "You're here already? That was fast," Jun rolled his eyes before going to the door and opened it.
"Yeah. Because I was in the changing room when you called." The guy answered Jun's question not on the phone but personally before turning his attention on them, "Konbanwa ARASHI-san,"
"Toma-kun?" Nino stated.
"Ne~ what was Toma-kun doing here?" Aiba asked baffled.
"Ah~ Jun asked me if I have a spare suit for Sakurai Sho-kun," Ikuta Toma let himself in when Jun motioned him to enter, "And I said I have, then I thought, I should deliver it , so here" he swiveled the hangered-suit which was still wrap on plastic off his shoulder and swayed them in front of Sho. "Hmm, I think it will fit him."
"Why did Sho-chan need it?" Aiba asked.
"Of course, if he's going to an omiai-" Toma paused when the guys shot him a surprised look. "Jun told me, don't worry I atleast know how to keep a secret, that is if you meant to keep it a secret."
"Of course!" the guys said in chorus.
"Right, as I was saying, if he plans to go to that event, then he really would need a suit, and I think that was also what Jun had in mind when he asked me for it," Toma explained.
"Right, are you planning to go there in shirt and rugged jeans and make matters worse Sho-chan?" Jun asked.
"No.. of course not," Sho shook his head.
"Yosh, that's settled then. Jaa~ I believe I have no business here," with that said, Toma went out of the room.
"Now, Sho, what are you standing there for? The time's running. Hurry, and change!" Jun ordered.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
Shi glanced around and was captivated by what she had seen. All her unhappy thoughts were set aside for awhile the moment they entered the hall. As expected of her mother-- everything was prepared with elegance. From the flowers, the vases, the table and the cloth used, even the draperies hanging by the wall- all come from finest makers. The moment the guests set eyes on her, she had that uneasy feeling which was familiar as it was like the time when she attended Sakurai-san’s party. Luckily for her, Nakahara was there to support her.
“Daijobu?.” The butler asked worriedly. “This way Shi-sama..” He led her all the way to a line of rooms past the hall where the flower arrangement party was being held.
“Whoaah. I never expected this building to hold so much rooms, I thought it only houses parties and programs?” Shi stared questioningly at Nakahara.
“Ah, when was the last time you’d been here Shi-sama?” the butler asked while walking still aware of the people that had been staring at Shi.
“Um.. the last time was about 10 years ago..” She answered while eyes on the set of doors which had that classy style, again, as expected of her mother.
“That’s why.. your mother had it renovated to accommodate guests who want to spend the night, later you’ll see that some rooms where purposely made for seminars also..and that’s where I’m taking you..” Nakahara smiled knowingly which Shi received with a nod.
“Ah.. I see..” Shi was walking absentmindedly until her attention was caught by the silhouette of a man whom she never expected to see. Of all places.. why here? Shi can’t help but panicked upon realizing that the man was staring back at her, and, moments later, was now walking towards her.
No! She thought and stood behind her butler hoping to avoid him but was too late, for Sho had already got hold of her hand.
“Let me go..” Shi had terror in her eyes. Thinking just what her mom will do when she found out that Sho was within the same hall as she was in; she knew she can’t bear it.
“No.. I won’t.. why Shi? What are you doing here?..” Sho asked demandingly, his eyes grew livid seeing how frightened she was. Tell me Shi.. what is it? Why do you look so troubled? He can’t help but thought but shut his mouth and waited for her reply, but what came next stirred more of his anger.
“Its none of you’re business..” Shi trembled. She knew her words were cutting him deeply and were somehow making him more furious, but she had no choice.
“Of course it is! Damn it..” Sho’s voice roared in rage.
For the first time, Shi felt grateful that the hall was packed with guests, who were talking excitedly with each other, that they didn’t seem to notice Sho’s outrage. As they continue walking, with Sho dragging her forward, she can’t help but feel insecure, and her terror doubled as she realized the weight of the situation.
“Hey where are you taking me?” Shi halted making an eye contact with him.
“Shut up and follow.” Sho answered without looking at her, his eyes kept searching for something which she supposed as the place where they were heading that she still insisted even if the chance of him listening to her was moot.
“Wait. I said wai-” Shi protested but was cut in midsentence by Sho who stared murderously at her, making her pursed her lips and followed quietly.
The idol continued walking while hands still holding hers. Thoughts of what he was about to do kept playing on his mind..
Just a moment ago.
He was walking aimlessly around the hall, indifferent to his surroundings. He knew that people were staring, but the hell he cares. There had been so many things occupying his mind that time that even those women who staged their brightest smile at him, those men who were arrogantly looking at him didn’t have the slightest effect on him. In fact, nothing can fill his mind more than what was about to happen, and how would it affect his life forever. His consolation was just, he’s doing it for the sake of his kids and for the woman he loves-then an unexpected thing happen. At first he thought he was just daydreaming. He thought it was just his eyes playing tricks on him that even his object of affection had suddenly appeared before him. He had to scratch his eyes and pinched himself just to make sure.
There she was- clad in a beautiful kimono, accompanied by an old man whom he assumed to be her butler for the night. She looked very classy from head to toe that it seemed to him as a dejavu when guests turned their heads to adore her beauty. A familiar surge of jealousy flowed inside him that he needed to muster all his control in order to restrain his self from running in her side and make a very intriguing scene.
When they walked past the guest and past the hall, blessed that butler for supporting her, he can’t believe that her eyes fortunately landed at the same time when he was staring at her-then a sudden idea hit him. And he knew he had to do it. He knew it was the right thing to do, for never in his wildest dreams do he dreamt of his life away from his beloved…
“We’re here,” Sho stopped dead on his tracks upon seeing the number which hanged elegantly against the door.
Taking a deep breath, he turned the knob and pushed open the door in a slightly hard manner, making the thing create a banging sound which gained the attention of the people present in the room.
“Let’s go.”
Sho told her with an assured voice that Shi began wondering what she was doing there when she was supposed to meet her mother along with some bachelors whom she assumed to be sons of big companies.
He probably sensed her reluctance because she was a few second late when she realized that Sho was already pulling her towards the long table where his family was sitting along with a woman whose back was facing against them.
“Otousan, okaasan, I’m sorry, I can’t possibly marry the woman whom you had purposed for me to marry, for I already have someone in my heart.” He said with conviction making her all the more anxious about the situation.
All heads turned to them, especially to her and to their hands which were still entwined with one another.
“Oh I see you have brought her here, why, I thank you Sho.. I was so nervous that she would back out from our deal.” The other woman said in delight with her back still facing them.
For a moment, the two glanced at the woman, whose face was still unknown, pondering upon the words they had just heard, but Sho’s mind was largely filled with the current situation that he didn’t try hard to understand what she meant.
“You were saying something son?” Sakurai-san asked distracting the two of their thoughts.
“Yes. As I was saying otousan, before this woman interrupted, I love Shi, you had seen her before right? She’s the mother of my kids whom you had abducted and whose mother was one of your kohai, and whose late father was one of your colleagues,” Sho talked continuously, completely ignoring what he had just heard. He didn’t know where his confidence came from, but all he knew was at that moment, he had to stand up for Shi and his kids.
“You listen Sho, a deal is a deal! Aren’t you ashamed of our visitor? She could hear all the things you were saying”
“No Otousan, you listen. So what if she could hear me? Its better that she finds out that I only love one woman, and that is Shi, not any daughters from those political friends of yours.”
There was a long moment of silence, saved by their breaths. The father and son were eyeing each other immensely, sizing each other as if the one who’ll break the eye contact would be declared the loser. As the silence grew longer, Sho had the time to think over, to think of what had just occurred, particularly the words of the woman who was still unknown to him, until his eyes widened- so big that if there was no skin supporting it, his eyeballs would come out of its socket, for he was so excited yet nervous about the thing he had just realized.
--WAIT,” Sho paused, his eyebrows furrowed a couple of millimeters away from each other, while organizing his train of thoughts. “Wait.” Sho said this time with his eyes closed. When he opened it again, he held the other woman’s shoulder with his free hand and uttered, “I think I heard this woman-“
“You see, I’m not “this woman” Sho,” The other woman turned her head, smiled, “Seriously, I never expected that you are this slow son..” and laughed the kind of laugh which even Shi hadn’t heard of.
“Eh? Reiko-kaasan? What are you doing here?..”
“Mama?”…
Both had the same expression- a mixture of surprise, delight, fear and anything which goes with the saying “expect the unexpected”, for surely, Shi and Sho never expected that moment.
“Then..” It was Shi who first recover from the state of shock. Being a smart lass she was, she had somehow concluded what was going on with the situation. Her instincts were proven when the people sitting around the table started laughing that Shi found herself dumbstruck on a situation while still tangled with Sho who was nowhere near okay, or, “not sane” was maybe the right term to describe his discomfort.
“Wait!.- If I may recall, Sho mentioned about my kids being abducted? What do you mean?” The laughter died when Shi’s glaring eyes darted on the direction where Sakurai-san was sitting. “You abducted my kids? How dare yoU!” she snapped.
“Whoah.. easy child..” Sakurai had to raise his two hands upward as a sign of apology. “ I’m sorry about that.. it’s the only way I had thought of to make my son agree on this omiai…”
“Wait.. you mean you didn’t abducted them?” Sho reacted for the first time after hearing what his father said, “Otousan~ ..” and pouted.
“Silly.. why would I do that..is that how bad you think of me son?” Sakurai-san stared curiously at his son then at his wife, “See? I told you Yuko, its your fault you raise him that way,”
“Hey dear, don’t put the blame on me.. besides, the whole “abducting thing” was your idea.. I told you that Sho wouldn’t like it.. even Mai and Shu were against it.” Yuko(?) hissed at her husband then smiled apologetically at Sho who was again at loss for a moment.
“Wait- you knew about this and you didn’t told me?!” Sho stared deadly at his two siblings who just shrugged and smiled innocently while muttering silent apologies to him. “But..But I called Shi.. a while ago, she told me that the twins aren’t home yet..and I was worried so I called otousan and he confirmed it..”
“Baka- of course dad would say that he had your kids..you’re really stupid oniichan-“
“Watch your words Mai,” Sakurai-san cut his daughter’s speech and turned his attention on Sho who seemed to be waiting for an explanation, ”Of course they weren’t at home.. and Shi, mind to tell my son why?” the old man looked expectantly at Shi who cringed upon hearing her own name mentioned by the man who was possibly her kids’ abductor.
“How am I supposed to know why? You abducted them right..?” She answered coldly.
“I told you.. I did not!” Sakurai-san was losing his patience.
“Child, please..think .. Now think why the twins were not at home...” Yuko said pleadingly while hands on her husband’s to calm the old man.
“Shi, are you sure you don’t know why?” It was Reiko this time.
Like Sho, Shi paused for a moment to think, until it hit her.
“Ah… of course! They…they.. mentioned about having a sleepover in school…” Shi processed on her mind what she had just said and nearly poked herself for forgetting about those details, if not for Sho restraining her hands that they received another set of laughter from their audience, who happened to be Sho’s mom and dad, Mai, Shu, and Shi’s mom.
“Right.. but I didn’t expect you to forget about that..really child, what had gotten into you?” Reiko was shaking her head in disbelief that her daughter had forgotten that detail.
“Sorry.. I was too preoccupied by what you told me-“ Shi raised an eyebrow remembering what had been “at stake” on her situation, “MOM! … why am I the one whose apologizing?.. It was all your fault!” Shi’s temper was rising.
“What do you mean?” Reiko asked innocently as if she had done nothing.
“You’re a bad actress Mama!” Shi pouted at her mom.
“Hah! If I am, then do tell me Shi, why did you come here?” Reiko asked mockingly.
“That’s bec-“ Shi placed a hand over her mouth. As much as she wanted to reason out, she can’t, for her reason was something that was very embarrassing to say, especially in front of Sho.
“Stop torturing your daughter Reiko, its been too much for the her..” Yuko smiled warmly.
“Yeah.. its been too much for your son also..” Reiko smiled back.
“Mou~ why don’t we just let oniichan and oneechan sit first?” Shu butt in the conversation.
“Yeah, Shu’s right Okaasan, Im sure they’re both impatient to hear some explanation from us, especially from Otousan and from Reiko-kaasan,” Mai winked at Shi who smiled exhaustedly because of what happened.
“I’m sure you two were old enough to hear what your sister had just said, now occupy the blank seat.” Sakurai-san commanded.
“Wait.” The two said in chorus.
“What now?” the old man asked.
“Not until you promised to tell us what the hell really happened. And why it so happened that the two of us ended as omiai partners.” Sho answered demandingly.
“Wasn’t that the reason why I was asking you two to sit first so that we could discuss?” Sakurai-san said sarcastically. “Now save your questions later and sit!”
“Just making sure otousan,” Sho grinned devilishly before pulling out a chair to let Shi sit first and afterwards sat beside her.
“What now?” Sho asked the moment they were seated across with his family and Reiko.
“Tsk, too impatient.” Reiko’s comment earned her two questioning looks from Shi and Sho, and curious stares from the members of Sakurai Family. “I wonder where he could have inherited that trait sempai?” Reiko’s eyes turned to Yuko.
“Don’t ask me Reiko, I was wondering about that too.”
“Since you two are being stubborn unless we tell you, let’s start from when I first found out. But I’m warning you, it might get a little boring,” Reiko started.
“Nothing’s boring when talking about the truth Mama, so please continue.” It was Shi who ansered.
“Okay, then listen, ”….
About more than a month ago..
"Sir, Reiko Tetsuka-san is outside waiting in the lounge."
Reiko heard the secretary told the boss. Johnny probably replied with a nod because seconds after that, she was being allowed to enter the office and was asked to sit by the old man whose smile was beaming yet at the same time looked pale.
“Did something good happen? You were all smiles but you look pale.” She asked.
“Oh yes, Im fine..just a little tired I guess. Old man’s age.. I had just finished talking with Shi,” the old man replied happily.
“With my daughter? Oh what about her? Was that the reason why you looked cheerful?”
The old man nodded.
“Why?”
“Hmm.. “Johnny seemed to be very careful with his words. “She told me something very interesting,”
“And that had something to do with?”
“with her feelings toward the twin’s dad,” Johnny replied shortly.
“Oh. I see. So you’re going to tell me now after hiding it from me for too long?”
“Yes why not Reiko? There’s no point denying it now because even the twins knew about it.”
“Oh~ so you told my grandkids?”
“Nope, they just found out. You know very well that those two were clever.”
“Yes I know..then do tell me Ojii, who was the bastard?”
“Reiko, do you happen to know your grandkids’ last name?”
“Oh yes, Shi told me.. she named them Tetsuka-“ but seeing Johnny’s bitter expression, “..or not?”
“Its Sakurai.”…………
“Mind you Sho, after hearing the twins’ last name, I almost ran out and headed to your greenroom if not for Johnny-ojii’s convincing me not to do reckless things,” Reiko told them spitefully. “You should really be grateful to that old man.”
“I am ma’am,” Sho bowed his head in embarrassment.
“But, Kitagawa-san never mentioned oniichan’s name, I wonder how you knew that it was him?” Shu couldn’t stop his self from asking.
“Oh, good question Shu-kun,. You see.. if you remember, at the party, I mentioned how these two [pointing at Shi and Sho] were really good friends, to the extent that your brother would spend the night at my daughter’s apartment, and vice versa..besides, I know my daughter, she wouldn’t do something, unless, she’s sure of it..”
“But still, if you knew that much,. How come, from the very beginning, you never expected that Shuri and Shuji’s dad is oniichan?” it was Mai who asked this time.
“Oh, that was simple Mai-chan.. it was pure trust. I trusted your brother, especially, he’s older, not to mention, way older that time, and Shi was just 16..so I thought he knew what should and should not be done,. but I was wrong,” Reiko answered coolly.
“I’m sorry…” Sho apologized. It was the only thing he could do at the moment.
“No need son, there’s no point dwelling on past events,.. “
“But still-“
“Do you still want to hear how we ended up with a situation like this, or you’ll just keep on apologizing?” Reiko interrupted Sho’s next words that made the idol silent for awhile. “Right, so moving on, I think its time to hear Sempai’s version this time.”
All heads turned to the man in question. Sighing heavily, Shi listened with a pained heart. Its going to be a long night for all of them.
+++++++++++++++++++++++
“I must say, I was quite impressed when Sho entered this room and revealed himself and his feelings. It was splendidly done. But I’m troubled about one thing.”
“Why, thank you Reiko-kaasan,” Sho smiled confidently, “Do tell me, what was it that you’re troubled about?”
“Your feelings Sho. How can I be certain that its real and not just because your situation demands for it?”…
As Sho drove along the way to her apartment, Shi gazed upon the city’s night light through the darkened window of his car while her mother’s words and how Sho just smiled as an answer to that question kept playing and playing on her mind like a never ending story. What if Mom was right?..- her mind was full of ‘what ifs’ , each one demanding an answer, each one, taking away her courage bit by bit, until she felt herself crying silently, while eyes still on the road, in a slanted angle, so that Sho wouldn’t notice her misery. The last thing she needed was the guy consoling her because of those things especially if she was too confused about their situation. What had happened was enough, and Shi knew she couldn’t trouble him further.
“Shi? We’re here..” Sho tapped her shoulder gently before assisting her off from the seatbelt.
“Oh..how long had it been since we arrived?” Shi asked while avoiding his eyes.
“About 10 minutes..” Sho was caught off guard seeing her reaction. “Shi, are you okay?”
Still looking on the other side, “Yeah.. just a bit tired. I guess a good sleep will suffice,” she answered with a hesitant smile then opened the car door without waiting for Sho to open it for her and sped out of the car. “You should be going too..its late.” She didn’t wait for a reply, nor look back and continued walking towards her door, tears began swelling in her eyes- those which she had been restraining from falling while still on Sho’s car, fell aimlessly, without missing any single second that made her frame tremble.
Still on the car, Sho wondered what was wrong, while battling whether to follow and seek her out or not. Staring at her retreating figure with curious eyes through the dim light which shone above her, Sho noticed that she was trembling as if she was crying. He didn’t know, but his feelings told him that it had something to do with his reaction a while ago.
“SHI!” He called out but she continued walking. Sho stepped out of his car and ran after her, madly as if his life dependent on it. When he reached her though, Sho tried turning her around, but she became reluctant. Instead, Shi continued walking until she was in front of her apartment door that he had no choice but wound his arms around her from the back. Whispering, “Shi..tell me, what’s wrong?” Sho embraced her tightly when Shi tried to free herself from him.
“Let me go..” Shi said in broken voice and Sho knew that she was crying, for how long, he didn’t know. But one thing is certain, it was because of him.
“No, I won’t let go of you Shi..,” He answered determinedly.
“Stop pretending Sho.. we’re no longer in front of our parents.. so please stop it..You’re safe now.. the kids were safe now..” Shi said hurting and began shaking, not bothering to hide her tears from him.
“Pretending?” Forcing her to turn around, “Look at me Shi, do I look like someone who’s been pretending?” Sho shot her a pained expression.
“I don’t know Sho.. I don’t know anymore,” Taking his hands off her shoulders, Shi her face with both hands and spoke in muffled voice, “I don’t know if I should believe you..”
“Why Shi? Why is it too hard for you to believe me?” He snapped her hands away from her eyes and made her look at him in the eyes.
“Because the last time I believed you, you had hurt me!” Shi stared at him piercingly, her eyes red from crying. “You hurt me real bad Sakurai Sho! Now, am I supposed to believe someone who can’t even answer my mom’s question awhile ago? How am I to take the words of a man who almost subjected himself into an omiai?”
“That’s for our kids’ sake damn it!” Sho lost his temper. “And look who’s talking! Hah! Hadn’t you almost met up with different bachelors if not for my interference awhile ago?!”
Its for your sake damn you!. But instead Shi said, “Hah! I told you, its none of your damn business Sho!”
“And I told you it is! Whether you like it or not it is! Besides, you’re questioning my going into an omiai and yet you didn’t want me to interfere with yours? What an unfair thing to do Shi!”
“Unfair? Five years ago, you left me right after what happened between us. Heck, you even left me with kids, but I still raised them, I moved on with my life, without you helping..I tried hard to be happy and not a day-- my mom, Johnny-jiichan, even the twins, not even once, did they hear me complaining about it.. and then you’ll suddenly appear and talk about me being unfair?..oh no no, Don’t preach about fairness, when you yourself doesn’t know what that word means.” Shi paused for a couple of heartbeat then raised a finger and pointed it against his chest, “And fro your information Sakurai Sho, I came to that omiai for your sake,” still pointing on his chest.
Shi began crying that Sho stood there speechless, unable to move. He was lost for words because what she said was all true, and it stabbed him deeply.
“I agreed to go with it because Mama threatened that she would do something with your career, and I know that it would hurt you deeply..”
“Shi..” Sho still couldn’t find the right words.
“You must be thinking how pathetic I am .. but you’re right.. I must really be going out of mind..of all those years..I thought I had forgotten.. I thought I had buried it deeply, but you see, just after a day of seeing you again the night of your group’s anniversary, I couldn’t get you out of my mind..and it was very frustrating.” Shi wiped the tears off from her eyes then stared seriously at him. “Now tell me Sakurai Sho, who between us was being unfair? You, going to an omiai for the sake of the twins, or me going to an omiai because of the man I love who doesn’t love me-”
“I love you Shi, I told that in front of our parents right?” Sho interrupted her sentence by holding her chin up “Wasn’t that enough of a reason for you to believe me?” He asked before bridging the gap between them, kissing the tears that still continuously falling from her eyes, until his lips claimed hers.
*********so what do you think will happen next?:)