Chapter 23

CAFÉ

Aya was at the kitchen monitoring all the work in the kitchen while Risa is seated at the couch near the counter.She was spacing out and didn’t even realize Emi was already there,sitting infront of her.

Emi : HELLO

Risa : (shocked)

Emi : What is wrong with you?

Risa: Nothing.

Emi : Don’t lie.

Risa : Nice hair by the way.

Emi flipped her dark bronze hair before tying them into a messy bun.

Emi : Probably gonna put my nerdy image for a rest on this wonderful Sunday!

Risa : When did you arrive?

Emi : Like 5 minutes ago?

Risa : Driving?

Emi : (showing her keys)

Risa : Right…

Emi : Come on,what happened?

Risa : I saw Senri.

Emi : WHAT THE HECK?

Risa : Seriously Im not even joking.

Emi: Out of all people,him? Well at least it was not Shohei.

Risa : (rolling her eyes)

Emi : Whats up with him?

Risa : Nothing,just it bugs my mind to actually bump into him.

Emi : Come on Risa,sweep it off. You are just making your life miserable thinking about him.Think about your dashing boyfriend instead (winks)

Risa : What dashing boyfriend.

Emi : Come on,please Risa.Please.

Risa : My life is a mess.I feel like going back to the states right now.

Emi : If you ever gonna do that,Im gonna kill you right here right now.Dont start Risa.

Risa : Whatever.Im fine fine.

Aya came to them and placed 3 cups of coffee before taking a seat beside Risa.

Aya : Nice hair Emi.

Emi : My pleasure (grins)

Risa : Anyway,something is not right with Kaname.

Emi : I thought everything about him is not right? (sipping her coffee)

Aya : I second that.(laughing)

Risa : NO seriously. Last Friday,we met his parents.

Emi : And?

Aya : That fast?(surprised)

Risa : It was just a casual late lunch meet up.But the thing is,before we actually go and meet his parents,we went to a jewelry shop.

Aya : Buying a gift for the mother I suppose?

Emi : And then?

Risa: Kaname being Kaname,he asked me to choose one for his mother.So I did,and went I got home that night,I found the ring in my bag instead.

Emi and Aya whom were sipping their coffee accidentally spurted their coffee out at the same time.They quickly reached for tissues and wipe their mouths.

Emi : What the heck?

Aya : Wait what? He misplaced it or?

Risa : I don’t even know.I called him and he told me keep it.

Emi : ………..wow…..

Risa : The thing is,why and why and for what reason I need to keep his mother’s ring.

Aya : I don’t understand this guy at all.

Emi : Guys are just being guys.

Risa : And the fact that I still have 55 days to go.My mind is just corrupted to even think about anything.

Aya : Come on Risa,we are here.Its just 55 days.Why not? Its not like you have to work or do anything?

Emi : but still,she would need to accompany Kaname everywhere he goes. Showing to the world that she is Kaname’s girlfriend .I hate the medias.I seriously hate them.Whatever news,true or not true,they just write them without even checking the validity of it.

Aya : (nods)

Risa : And another thing is.His father knows me.

Aya : What do you mean by that?

Risa : His father,knows my dad.And he knows that I am his daughter.And how he knows about me,I don’t even know.

Emi : Have you called your dad?

Risa : I haven’t. Probably gonna wait till he gets back maybe.

Emi : Probably business partner?Wait, crap so he knows you are bilingual?

Risa : yes. He even pointed out the fact that I can speak English.

Aya : Kaname does not know you can?

Risa : He knows nothing about me.

Emi : But at least he knows you are alive?

Risa : (laughing)

Aya : What a life you have Risa.

Risa : A messy life you can say.Its been messy since years ago.Forever will be.

Risa lay backward and closed her eyes. Her brain cant literally think rationally with everything that is happening to her.But for sure,she need to get through everything.

Emi : Speaking of forever. Im going for a shooting with Forever 21 Japan tomorrow.

Aya : You got a call ?

Emi : That fast I know but my sister managed to sell my email to all the producers.

Aya : You are making Arisa sounded so evil (laughing)

Emi: My sister as always.Being the only sister,let her be (rolling her eyes)

Suddenly Emi’s phone rang and she quickly answer it.

Emi : Yes?

Arisa : I need you to pick me up at the station in 10 minutes. Can you make it?

Emi : Im on my way.

Emi put her phone into her pocket and turn to both Risa and Aya.

Aya : Arisa?

Emi : She’s at the station.I need to go and fetch her.I’ll see you tomorrow?

Aya : (nodding)

Risa : Ride safely Emi (waving her hand)

Emi swiftly shaked her keys and took her blue helmet from under the table.

Emi turned around and walked towards the door,as she was walking she saw Akira was about to enter the café. Akira saw her and his eyes were locked on her. What kind of guy wouldn’t be struck looking at this other side of Emi. A tall and lean girl with her grey lenses on, dressed in a black sleevless turtle neck and a black leggings with black boots. Such a presence can never fail to turn heads. And that is just Emi. When she enter the café itself,many head has turned to just look at her.

Akira hold the door for her and Emi just gave him a slight bow gesturing a “thank you” for the door.Akira turn his head to look at Emi while she was putting on her jacket.

Akira : (smiling at himself) What am I thiking anyway.

Akira walked straight to the counter to place his order,not realizing Risa and Aya are at the table beside him.

Aya : Do you want me to send your number to Senri?

Risa whom were leaning her head on the couch abruptly lifted her head and that the moment she actually spotted Akira at the counter.

Risa : Eh?

Akira whom were focusing at the menu didn’t realize Risa was looking at him .But after a while,he seem to realize somebody was looking at him and he turn to Risa’s direction.

Akira : Risa?

Risa : (smiling)

Akira took his coffee and went straight to Risa and Aya.

Aya : Konbawa Mizushima-san (smiles)

Risa : Konbawa.

Akira : Konbawa my ladies( smiles)

Aya : Would you care to join us?

Akira : How can I reject this golden offer(laughing)

Akira took a seat beside Aya and placed his coffee on the table.

Akira : What are you guys doing here on a Sunday?

Aya : Work?

Akira : IM sorry,I forgot that you own this café .(rubbing the back of his neck)

Risa : You have work too,today?

Akira : No,not really.I was planning to meet Isane here actually.

Risa : (shocked)

Aya : Meeting? Work related-meeting?

Isane : More like,non-related meeting.

All head turn to look at Isane whom suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Risa cant  help but to realize that this is her first time looking at Isane in casual clothes. All black from top to toe but he still look charming and neat she thought.

Risa : (speechless)

Isane : Konbawa Risa,Aya,and you’re early Akira.

Akira : Not that early (looking at his watch)

Isane sat at the empty seat beside Risa and he ran his fingers through his dark wavy hair.

Isane : I am surprised to see you both here at the café. Are you guys meeting up?

Akira : She owns the café Isane.If you have forgotten.

Isane : …oh wait.I almost forgot about that.

Aya : (laughing)

Risa : Well,this is such a coincidence.

Aya : (smiling)

Akira : While we are at it.We can grab lunch together after this?

Isane : Sounds good.

Risa : (looking at both of them)

Isane : Are you fine with that,ladies?

Aya : Im fine as long there is food.

Risa : Me too.

Akira : I like you both already (laughing)

Aya : But don’t rush,enjoy your drinks first!

Isane : Im gonna go get my coffee.

Aya : Its okay.I’ll order them for you.

Isane was already standing and she gestured Aya to not stand.

ISane : Thank you Aya,but its okay.I’ll get it (smiling)

Akira : Isane is just being Isane indeed.

Aya : He is like that?

Akira : Well,he is like the gentleman of the family.

Risa : NO wonder.

Akira : No wonder indeed.

Aya : The genes?

Akira : I wouldn’t say the genes but I’ll take that as a compliment .

Aya : (laughing)

Risa : (nodding)

Akira : Arent you gonna ask about your boyfriend,Risa?

Risa : He is not my boyfriend.

Akira : He is ,at least on the papers.

Risa : Whatever it is.

Akira : Don’t get me wrong.Im glad that you clearly dislike the idea. (winks)

Risa : Nobody likes that idea.

Akira : So,while we are here.I have a lot of things to ask about you.

Aya : Excuse me for a while,I need to go to the kitchen for a while.

Risa : Becareful Aya (waving)

Akira : Cooking?

Aya : No,just checking my girls at the back.I’ll be right back.(smiles)

Akira smiles at Aya before shifting his attention back to Risa.

Akira : Tell me about you Risa.

Risa : What do you want to know?

Akira : You have a boyfriend? I mean a real boyfriend.

Risa : I don’t.

Akira : You don’t  or you don’t want them?

Risa : I don’t think I can even answer that.

Akira : Alright,I completely understand that.

Risa : What about you? Don’t you have girlfriends?

Akira : Girlfriend? No . Girl friends,yes.A lot of them.

Risa : Why are these girl friends are not your girlfriend? (lifting her eyebrows)

Akira : IM very picky when it comes to getting a girlfriend.

Risa : Picky?

Isane : Akira loves all girls Risa.He cant pick.

Isane placed his coffee on the table before taking his seat back.

Risa : (laughing)

Akira : Do you have to spoil the atmosphere here Isane.

Isane : Cant let you lead the way through Akira.

Akira : (annoyed)

Isane : So,what are your plans for today Risa?

Risa : Nothing,probably just gonna accompany Aya through out the day.

Akira : Why not we go dine at my favorite restaurant? They have great sushi there.

Isane : I like that place too.

Risa : I don’t mind at all.

Akira : My treat (winks)

Isane : (coughing)

Risa : …

Akira : But Risa.

Risa : Yes?

Akira : Are you sure you are safe going out without Kaname ? I mean the paparazzi and all

Risa : I don’t give a damn about them.Write whatever they want.

Isane : (looking at Risa)

Isane cant seem to hold back looking at Risa,with that long black hair of hers falling around her shoulder,he has never seen someone as bright as her. She seems to be so charming that he knows he cant get up if he fell for her.Or probably,he is falling for her already.At that moment.

Risa : Isane?

Isane : (shocked)

Risa : You don’t look good.Is everything okay?

Isane : Eh no,everything is cool.Just having some thoughts.

Akira : Some thoughts (grinning)

Isane : Is just that I have never seen someone like you in my life.

Risa : Are you talking to me?

Isane : Nevermind,scrap that.

Akira : Are you drunk Isane? (laughing)

Isane : Well,then.Shall we make a move for lunch?

Risa : I’ll  go get Risa.

Risa quickly heads to the kitchen to get Aya leaving both Akira and Isane alone at the table.Akira lay backward and stared at the window infront of him.

Akira : Going one step ahead aren’t you?( serious tone)

Isane : Like I said,cant let you lead the way.

Akira : Are we even fighting about this.

Isane : Not a fight Akira.

Akira : (laughing)

Isane  : Man don’t fight for girls.

Akira : Except that Risa is not a normal girl.She’s a gem.

Isane : We’ll see how things go Akira.

Akira : As if you don’t know me I always get the girl I want .

Isane : As if you don’t know me,girls always come to me.

Akira let out a smirk before finally sipping his almost empty cup of coffee.The atmosphere were a bit cold and none of that said anything until Aya and Risa came out of the kitchen.

Akira : Shall we?

Chapter 22- Senri

CARPARK

Seiko and Hiroshi were fetched by their drive leaving Kaname and Risa alone at the outdoor carpark.  Seiko seems to be having fun during their meet up that she was reluctant to leave Risa and go home.She even made Risa promise to come over at her house for lunch or dinner anytime when she’s still in Japan.Hiroshi on the other hand just laughed whenever Kaname conversed in English with his mother. Hiroshi and Risa kept exchanging laughs but only both of them knows why.

Kaname : Do you need anything else?

Risa : NO.

Kaname : I’ll send you back.

Risa : I can go back on my own.

Kaname : Can you not do that?

Risa : What?

Kaname : Acting like this.

Risa : What?

Kaname : being so independent and all.

Risa : You have a problem with that Kaname?

Kaname : Just get in the car,Risa.Its dark and dangerous.

Risa : I can--

Kaname : Get in the car.If not I’ll do something you don’t like.

Risa : Alright shut it.You are so childish (annoyed)

Risa stomped herself towards the passenger door and open it.She got into the car without saying anything.Kaname on the other hand let out a small grin when Risa just obeyed his order.Kaname got into the car anr quickly drove towards her house. This is the first time that he finally get to know where Risa actually live. He stopped infront of Risa’s house and pulled the gear to “P”

Risa : Alright,thanks.

Kaname unbelted his seat belt and Risa quickly turn around when she heard the clicking sound.

Risa : Where are you going?

Kaname ignored her and he went out of the car,walked straight to the passengers’s door and opened it.Risa whom were still in the midst of removing her seat belt was shocked by Kaname’s sudden action.

Risa  : (dumbfounded)

Kaname : Why? You never seen me being a human before?

Risa : Stop acting so weird Kaname.Im already scared .

Kaname : I am just being a man,opening the door for a woman.whats weird about it.

Risa got out of the car and when Kaname was about to close the door for her,she quickly stopped him.Kaname quickl turned to Risa when she placed her hand on the door,stopping him from closing the door.

Risa :I’ll  close it myself.

Kaname ignored her and closed the door on his own. They were so close to each other that Risa had to stepped back so that they wont be standing too close to each other.

Kaname : Have a good weekend Risa.

Risa : Weekend? Wait.Its already Friday today?

Kaname : Yes. What were you thinking?

Risa : That was..fast.

Kaname went to the driver side and he stopped before getting into the car.

Kaname : Thank you.

Risa : Thank You?

Kaname : You were suppose to say you’re welcome?

Risa : Seriously man. Did something just posses your or you just hit your head somewhere on the wall.

Kaname got into the car and wind down the window

Kaname : Make sure you show up next

 Monday.

Risa : Whatever Kaname.

Kaname smiled a little before driving away leaving Risa alone infront of her house.

Risa : He must be drunk to be that polite.

Risa waited until Kaname’s car is out of her sight before going in.

Junna : Welcome home! Is Kaori with you?

Risa : Kaori?

Junna was sitting on the couch muching on some tropical fruits when Risa closed the main door of the house.

Junna : She called she will be going back early today.

Risa : She did?Its almost 8.How early is that.

JUnna : Probably stuck doing work I suppose.Have you eaten Risa?

Risa : I did.

Junna : how is work?

Risa slumped herself on the couch and grabbed a slice of watermelon.She stuffed them all before finally answering Junna’s question.

Risa: Tiring as usual

Junna : Aya’s coffee shop right?

Risa : (nodding)

Junna : Get some rest Risa.I am going to visit my sister tomorrow.You want to tag along?

Risa : Im gonna sleep the whole day I think tomorrow.Ive been out of the house the whole week (rubbing her neck)

Junna : Hai hai.My daughters are all so active during weekdays. Its time for you both to be a sloth and sleep 2 days straight . (laughing)

Risa : (yawning)

Junna : Go up and clean yourself. Go go!

Risa: Hai hai.Oyasumi oka-san.

Junna : Oyasumi(smiles)

Risa climbed up the stairs lazily before finally arriving at her room.She slumped herself on the white bed and stared at the ceiling.

Risa : What am I even doing with my life.

Risa kept still for a while before reaching for her bag .She rummage through her bag before pouring every thing on the her bed.The first thing she saw is a little blue tiffany box in between her stuffs.She was shocked because she seem to have seen the box before.

Risa : (shocked)

Risa reached for the little box  and open it right away.

Risa : What in the world is this ring doing in my bag?(confused)

Risa reached for her phone and quickly searched for Kaname’s name in her contact list.She tapped on Kaname’s name and waited for him to answer the call

Kaname : Hello?

Risa : I believe you dropped something.

Kaname whom were just out of the shower,wearing just a white bath robe walked out of his room towards his balcony.His right hand were holding his phone and the other hand was in the bath robe’s pocket.

Kaname : Dropped something?

Risa : The ring.I found it in my bag.DOnt you realize it was missing?

Kaname : Why would it be missing?

Risa : (sigh) Are you drunk or just slow.The ring Kaname.The ring I chose for your mother,it is in my bag.

Kaname : Oh that sapphire ring?

Risa : What else (rolling her eyes)

Kaname : well,if its in your bad then it is meant to be yours.

Risa : (confused)

Kaname : Keep it.

Before Risa could even digest nor digest whatever that Kaname has told her,Kaname swiftly hung up on her.Leaving Risa staring at her phone as if the phone has grown teeth.

Risa : What….

Kaname on the other hand placed his phone on the glass table and smiled.

SUNDAY

Aya :RISA!!!!

Risa whom were reading a novel on her bed turn to the door when Aya barged in.

Aya : Lets go lets go!

Risa : Lets go,what?

Aya : Accompany me to work of course!

Risa : Its freaking Sunday Aya.What work?

Aya : I own a café remember.

Risa : And?

Aya : I need to look around even it is a freaking Sunday

Risa :And you want me to tag along?

Aya : What else?

Aya went straight to Risa’s wardrobe and picked a checkered top and a a pair of black leggings.

Aya : Get ready!

Risa  : Could you at least give me 10 minutes

Aya : 5 Minutes!Move along!

TRAIN STATION

Risa : What a busy Sunday indeed

Risa was eyeing everyone walking around the train station.It was  bit congested as if everyone in Japan is there at the train station she thought.

Aya dressed in a red turtle neck and a black leather pants was busy arranging her hair because it got blown up by the wind while walking from their house to the train station.

Aya : I should have worn a hat or something.

Risa : Come on Aya.Is not like you are going out for a date or something.

Aya : Look who’s talking.

Aya lifted her eyebrows while looking at Risa

Risa : What?

Aya : If you cant remember,you are wearing  beanie.

Risa : As if I have never worn them back in the states .

Aya :Well who knows we might bump into anyone.Anyone.Anyone.Whoever you are.

Risa just sighed looking at Aya whom were looking around stalking every guy at the train station.

Risa : What is she even thinking.

Risa continued to read her novel she brought along from home,just to kill time while waiting for the train to arrive.Suddenly a guy accidentally bump into her that made her novel fell on the floor.

GUY : I am so sorry!

Risa  : No no,its okay.

The guy reached for the novel first before Risa could even do anything.

Risa :….

Senri : Risa?

Aya : Holy shit.

Risa : Senri?

Kudo Senri, one of Risa’s classmate when she was in high school.The guy she liked for the 4 years in the school.And the main reason why she decided to study abroad .The reason why she ran away from Tokyo in the first place.

Senri : Okumura Risa,right?

Risa : Yes yes.I remember you.Kudo Senri.

Senri : What a small world! How are you?

Risa : I am fine,very very fine.You?

Senri : Healthy as you can see now (smiling)

Aya : (looking at Risa)

Risa : Im sorry.If you can still remember Aya?

Senri : Yes yes of course.How can I forget.

Aya : Its been a long time indeed.(smiles)

Senri : Where are you both heading to?

Aya :Work.

Senri : On a Sunday?

Risa : Sadly yes. What about you?

Senri : Just meeting up with some friends in Tokyo.

Aya : I see.

Senri : Wait.

Both Risa and Aya just watched without saying anything as Senri took out his phone from his jacket.

Senri : Give me your numbers.Who knows we can go out for lunch or dinner anytime soon?

Aya : I’ll give you Risa’s numbers. Just give me yours.Risa left her phone at home.

Senri : Great,why not?

Knowing Risa,Aya knew that Risa cant still get her brain to work. Bumping into Senri,of all people in the train station was not a good idea at all.Not when she has a lot in her mind to think.

Senri bid Aya and Risa goodbye before walking away.Senri even remind Aya to give Risa’s number as soon as possible before walking away.

Aya : Not a good start you think?

Risa : (sigh)

Chapter 21- The Parents

MIZUHARA’S SHOPPING MALL

Restaurant Café

Kaname was standing infront of the café and Risa just stood there ,behind him.

Kaname’s phone rang and he quickly answer his call.

Kaname : Mother?Yes I am on my way there

Risa gave Kaname a glance when she realized that he was conversing in English with his mother. Kaname probably still thought she cant understand any of the words because he was not even looking at her while he was on the phone.

Kaname : I’ll give you a call when I have arrived at the café.Dont worry.I’ll see you  soon.

Kaname put his phone into his pant’s pocket and turn to Risa.

Kaname : I need to get something for my mother.Follow me.

Risa was too lazy to even response to any of Kaname’s so called commands that she just bow and nod to whatever he says.

Kaname : You have no voice to talk?

Risa : (ignoring him)

Kaname : Lets get my mother something you choose.I’ll pay,you choose.

Kaname and Risa went to a jewelry shop and Kaname eyed all the ring and necklace shown on the glass boxes.He seems good at it because he looks very calm and he looks used to this kind of thing.

Kaname : Choose Risa.

Risa : What color does your mother like?

Kaname : Blue.

Risa : Well get this one then.I doubt any girl cant reject a sapphire ring.

Kaname : Get that one then.

Kaname gestured the worker to get the ring and packed it in a box.

LADY 1 : Only this Sir?

Kaname : Yes.

Risa was so annoyed by his very ignorance self but she didn’t even care to make the situation worse.

Kaname went to the counter and paid for the ring.He then took the little baby blue paper bag and walked towards Risa.

Kaname : Hold this while we walk towards the café back. My mom is eager to meet you.And don’t worry,she knows everything about it.But mother would always be mother.I hope you understand.

Risa : Don’t bother about it.Im fine with anything.

Kaname : Good.

RESTAURANT CAFÉ

Seiko,dressed in one suit bohemian light brown dress was sipping her coffee while her husband, Hiroshi is reading the newspaper.

Seiko : Where in the world is Kaname?(looking around)

Hiroshi : He said he will be here anytime soon.Relax Seiko,I know you miss him.

Seiko : I am more excited on meeting his new girlfriend!

Hiroshi : I am not surprised.

Hiroshi ignored Seiko and continues reading the newspaper.

Suddenly Seiko spotted Kaname and Risa entering the café.Seiko quickly waved at Kaname and she was smiling for ear to ear when she finally saw kaname.

Seiko : Kaname!!!!

Kaname went straight to her mother and gave her a hug. Kaname bowed to his father before taking  turning around to Risa.Before Kaname could even introduce Risa to his parents.Seiko was faster to cut off his sentence.

Seiko : Is this the girlfriend Karin has been talking about!? (smiling)

Kaname : Yes.

Hiroshi lower down his newspaper to look at Risa and his eyes were locked on Risa.

Seiko : What is your name my lovely lady?

Risa : Okumura Risa- des(smiling)

Seiko : What a beautiful name for a such beautiful lady! Come sit my dear!

Kaname just shook his head looking at her excited mother.She is more excited to see Risa instead of him .Kaname took a seat beside his father while Risa was seated beside his mother.

Seiko : Risa-chan,you are so beautiful I think I can let Kaname marry you know (laughing)

Hiroshi  :Seiko.DOnt start.

Kaname : Mother, I think we both know she is not my girlfriend.Not literally ( in English)

Seiko : Kaname,what did I tell you about talking  in English when--

Kaname : She cant understand.Dont worry.

Risa pretend no to comprehend whatever Kaname is saying but Hiroshi realized that Risa’s expression changed.

Hiroshi : So Risa-chan, your surname is Okumura?

Risa : Yes.

Hiroshi : I have a friend with the surname Okumura too.

Risa : What a small world (smiles)

Seiko : Is that your friend living in London?

Hiroshi : Yes yes.Anyway,lets drop this topic.Order up Kaname,Risa. We are famished.

Kaname : I’ll order up.

Seiko : We have to go to the counter to order Kaname.I’ll go with you?

Hiroshi : Order whatever you think I would eat Seiko.

Seiko : What would you like Risa?

Risa : Anything is fine Mizushima-san.

Seiko : I can just order everything then (laughing)

Kaname and Seiko stood up and walked towards the counter leaving Hiroshi and Risa alone at the table.Hiroshi folded his newspaper and removed his reading glasses. He placed the paper and his glassed on the table and look at Risa

Hiroshi : I don’t think you didn’t understand what Kaname said just now.

Risa : What do you mean? (confused)

Hiroshi : I know your father and your mother too long and too well to recognize her daughter.(smiles)

Risa : (shocked)

Hiroshi : Don’t worry.Its not like Im putting this in a bad way. But, we shall keep it to ourselves?

Risa : But how did?...

Hiroshi : Ikuta,your father,we have known each other since we were 4 or 5. My eyes are still sharp to see that you got your father’s eyes. (laughing)

Risa : this is…out of the blue.

Hiroshi : Your father is such a good friend.I believe her daughters are just the same like him.

Risa : …

Hiroshi : So,I suppose my stupid son does not even know that you can speak English fluently?

Risa : No,not at all.

Hiroshi : I apologize on his behalf but he is just like that. I suppose you would be waiting for the right moment to slap him with all this?

Risa : Probably a punch.

Hiroshi : I like you already. You are a lot like your father. Wicked but smart. Have you seen him?

Risa : Not since  a week ago.He went to London after I came back here.

Hiroshi :From?

Risa : I was studying abroad as a matter of fact.

Hiroshi : I see. I doubt your boyfriend knows this.

Risa : Not even a single thing (rolling her eyes)

Hiroshi : Good! Keep it up  and make sure he got a big punch from you for making you look dumb.I always want someone to finally do that to him.

Risa : (laughing)

Seiko : Hey hey,I just left you guys for like 5 minutes and you both are already getting along?

Kaname : (staring at Risa)

Hiroshi : We were just having a casual conversation,didn’t we Risa?

Risa : Definetely (smiling)

Seiko : Alright,alright. Ive ordered a family set for us.I hope you would like it Risa-chan!

Risa : Don’t worry Mizushima-san.I eat almost everything.

Kaname : Glutton.

Risa : Look whos talking.

Seiko : (laughing) You both are so adorable.

Kaname : So ,how was your honeymoon?

Hiroshi : Ask your mother(grinning)

Chapter 20

KARIN’S OFFICE

Mia : Here you go!

Mia placed both paper bags on the table and sat across the table.

Karin: My head is in a mess.

Mia : Work?

Karin : What work.

Mia : Aaaa I know.Kaname?

Karin : YES

Mia : Why ,whats wrong?

Karin: Whats wrong?More like something is wrong with him.

Mia : Come on Karin.We both know how Kaname is.

Karin : The problem is him.He’s being so hard on Risa I feel like smashing his face with all my heels.

Mia : But I did realize he’s acting all stone-hearted towards Risa.

Karin : he didn’t even know her that well.

Mia : Wait,yesterday you told me Risa is 23?Aint she working?

Karin : She just got back from the states.

Mia : The what--

Karin : America.United stated of America (lifting her eyebrows)

Mia : Wait,that’s interesting.

Karin : She has a double degree in business and arts Mia. She can beat Kaname in a blink.

Mia : Holy shit,Kaname’s girlfriend is a jackpot!

Karin : But looking at her,she seems to be such a humble person .

Mia : Wait,where is she now?

Akira : She went out with Isane.

Karin and Mia quickly turned to the door to find Akira standing there.Akira closed the door behind him and went straight to both of them.

Karin : Did you say Isane?

Akira : YES ISANE.

Mia : whats with that intonation Akira (lifting her eyebrows)

Akira : Whats with my intonation.

Mia : your flirting skills has gone all rusty?(laughing)

Akira : I haven’t started yet okay,Mia. I’ll get whoever I wants.

Karin : Are you forgetting that Risa is Kaname’s?

Akira  turned to Karin and leaned towards her.

Akira : Are you forgetting that everyone in this building knows that is it not true?

Karin : Don’t you have works to do Akira.

Akira : I just got back from a meeting.I met  Riho and her boyfriend just now.They said they’ll be coming to greet Kaname’s new “girlfriend “ soon.

Mia : Why not just bring the whole family tree member and greet her (rolling her eyes)

Akira : Im gonna go down and get more coffees. You girls want anything.

Mia and Karin  : Our usual please!

Akira walked towards the lift and he loosen up his tie. He been thinking about his reaction when he saw Risa talking to Isane just now it just urks him. To see Isane a step ahead of him just made him hate himself more.

Akira : Never in my life Isane.(smiles)

LOBBY

RESTAURANT

Risa : You like classical music?

Isane : Yes yes .I might sound so old and aged but I always prefer classical music compared to any other genres. But no,I am not old.I am still young an attractive (laughing)

Risa cant help but laugh when Isane said that.

Risa : I love classical music too.Its like you can spend hours reading while listening to the music. Such a great feeling it is.

Isane placed his chopstick and straighten his posture.He look at Risa and smiles.

Isane : Ive always been curious about you.

Risa : Me?

Isane : Yes.Your actions sometimes makes me thing you are not even Japanese.

Risa : Is that a bad thing or a bad bad thing?

Isane : An interesting thing I must say.

Risa : Interesting in what way ?

Isane : Very interesting that I think I might need to ask you out again?

Risa looked at Isane with a very confused face and let out a laugh after that

Risa: As long as there is food.

Isane : But,Im serious. Tell me about you.Were you working before you were dragged into this mess?

Risa : No,I was not.

Isane : What were you doing?

Risa : resting.

Isane : Resting..?

Risa : Spending my time at home.Not doing anything much.

Isane : How did you end up meeting Kaname?

Risa : I was here in this building, running some errands.

Riho : Eh?Isane?

Isane : Riho?

Riho  smiles at Risa when their eyes met.

Riho : Is Karin upstairs?

Isane : yes yes. Anyway, this is Risa.

Riho : Riho des (smiles)

Risa look at this tall neat woman dressed in light grey blazer with matching heels.She looks very professional in a way that Risa was very captivated by her appearance.

Isane : Whats with the sudden visit here?

Riho : Well,don’t tell me you don’t know why I am here!

Isane turned to Risa and he let out a cough.

Riho : I heard about Kaname alright.Im here to meet the new girlfriend of his! I am so excited about her!

Isane : I can see that you are very very excited about meeting her.

Riho : Have you met her? I cant wait to go up and greet her!

Risa cant help but clenched her fingers trying to stay calm when she saw Riho was so excited about all the meet up.

As Riho was babbling about her excitement on meeting Kaname’s girlfriend to Isane and Risa,she was cut off with a famillair voice that all three turned.

Kaname : As a matter of fact,you have met her,Riho.

Riho : Kaname! (waving)

Isane : (cough)

Riho :Wait,what did you say?

Risa eyed Kaname as he closed the distance between him and all of them.

Kaname : Meet my girlfriend,Okumura Risa.

Riho’s faced quickly changed when Kaname said that and she quickly turn her head to look at Risa.

Riho : You are his new girlfriend!??

Risa : (gulp)

Riho quickly went to sit beside Risa and grab her shoulders.

Riho : You are so pretty oh my no wonder Kaname is head over heels over you eh?(wink)

Kaname : Cut it off Riho.I need to steal my girlfriend for a while.

Isane : (staring at Kaname)

Kaname : Do you mind if I steal her for a while,Isane?Or I am disturbing your date?

Isane : She’s all yours Kaname.We are done anyway.

Risa didn’t want to stay there any longer because it feels really awkward with both of them there,exchanging such weird glances. Risa excused herself and went to Kaname.

Kaname : Riho,Karin is waiting for you upstairs.I need to talk to Risa for a while.

Riho : Cant even be apart for even awhile eh Kaname?Alright,I’ll meet you guys up stairs?

Isane : I’ll go with you Riho.

Isane and Riho excused themselves and went straight to the lift,leaving  Kaname and Risa alone at the table.There were nobody else in the restaurant as it is still working hours.There is only two of them and the waiters of the restaurant.

Kaname didn’t even turn to look at Risa and Risa was minding her own business.

Kaname : Did you enjoy your date?

Risa  : I did.

Kaname : Good.Now lets go meet my parents.

Risa : What?

Kaname : Lets go.

Kaname walked ahead leaving Risa speechless.Risa was still digesting the fact that she needs to meet Kaname’s parents

Kaname : You’re walking if you don’t catch up with me Risa.

Risa : (annoyed) Can I just pour acid all over this guy.

Chapter 19- Book

OFFICE 

KANAME’S OFFICE  

Risa didn’t even bother to knock and she just barged into Kaname’s room

Risa : Okay talk.

Kaname whom were staring into space turned to Risa and straighten his posture.He looked at Risa and asked her to sit infront of him.

Risa without any second thoughts went straight to the table and sit infront of him.

Kaname : Karin said--

Risa : What did she say?

Kaname :You intended to not continue this matter.

Risa : Therefore?

Kaname : Do you know what will happen to me if you do that?

Risa : That is my concern because of?

Kaname : (annoyed)

Risa : I  don’t see which part of this matter is my concern.

Kaname : And what will happen to you too .

Risa : I don’t see that as a big deal.

Kaname : Can you stop making things worse.

Risa  : I am not even doing anything.You are the one who makes this up. Things are already in mess and you want to add more?

Kaname : What do you mean?

Risa : You were the one who said not to make a scene outside of the office.

Kaname : And?

Risa : Look who came and make a scene at the café just now?

Kaname : (staring at Risa)

Risa : I would suggest you to ask Karin again.

Kaname : Ask what?

Risa : Everything.

Risa stood up and went straight to the door.

Kaname : Where are you going?

Risa : Im going home.

Risa closed the door behind her before Kaname could say anything.Risa cant help but laugh when she saw Kaname’s reaction just now.

Risa : I need to sleep.(sigh)

Risa ran her fingers through her hair and walked straight to the panty.She didn’t realize Akira was sitting at the bar when she entered the pantry.

Akira : Risa?

Risa : (shocked)

Akira : (smiles)

Risa : (bowing) I think I’ll go somewhere else.

Akira : No no,its okay.Im leaving.You can have the pantry all by yourself (wink)

Risa : (confused)

Akira stood up and straighten his posture. Akira put his empty coffee can into the dustbin and walk towards the entrance.

Akira : Have a good day,Risa(smiles)

Akira smiled at Risa before leaving her alone at the Pantry.

Risa went straight to the bar table facing the windows. She just need some time to be alone,to ease her mind up.The quarrel between Kaname and her seems to be bugging her and she just hate the fact that they have to quarrel every single time both of then opens their mouths.

Risa : What a bummer (rubbing her neck)

Risa was spacing out,staring at the blue sky through the windows not realizing that Isane was leaning at the pantry’s door frame,looking at her.

Isane : (coughing)

Risa: (shocked)

Risa turned around quickly to find that Isane was looking at her.

Risa : Mizushima--

Isane : Its Isane.Call me Isane.(smiles)

Risa :….

Isane : So,how’s it going?

Risa : I doubt I know how to answer that.

Isane : Hows your boyfriend?

Risa : I think we both know that Kaname is not my boyfriend.

Isane :Didn’t know that you would go against that notion.

Risa : Never in my life I would agree to that.

Isane : (laughing)

Risa : (sigh)

Isane went to Risa and placed a book infront of her.

Isane : I figured out that you must be bored. Read this whenever you’re free.

Risa was surprised to see the book Norwegian Wood by Murakami infront of her. Its her favourite book but she read the English version instead of the original Japanese one.

Isane : You might have read it but reading Norwegian wood,once is never enough.

Risa : That’s so kind of you.Thank you Mizu-- I mean Isane.

Isane : Youre welcome. Have you eaten?

Risa : I did.You?

Isane : I haven’t. Would you mind accompanying me for some late lunch?(smiles)

Risa : Sounds good.(smiles)

Risa’s heart was beating so fast that she cant actually think of anything else.Ever since she saw Isane that day,she’s been really really fond of him.As if he has this magnet in him that makes her want to get close to him in any ways possible. Something about Isane that made her heart skipped a beat when she saw him at the roof top. There is something but she cant figure it out. And having him asking her out for lunch, she must be out of her mind to reject the offer she thought.