Chapter 44

LOBBY

Isane was walking towards the entrance of the lobby when she saw a red-haired woman leaning at the receptionist table a few steps ahead of him.

Isane : Akira.(serious tone)

Akira whom were walking leisurely was stopped by Isane’s voice calling his name.

Akira : What?

Isane : Call Karin.I’ll call Kaname.

Isane was already tapping on his phone when Akira was still looking around cluelessly trying to figure out what made Isane acted like that.

Akira : What?What is happening?

Isane : Kaname?

Kaname : yes?

Isane : Where are you?

Kaname : Outside the hotel.

Isane : Good,is Risa with you?

Kaname : Yes of couse.Anything wrong?

Isane : Take your time.

Isane hung up before Kaname could even reply to it and he place his phone back in his jacket’s pocket.

Isane : Your 2 oclock, red haired.

Akira : Is that…

Isane : Erina.

Akira : What is that woman doing here?

Isane : why don’t you go and find out?

Akira nodded obediently before walking towards Erina while Isane went to the other side and lean on the wall,keeping his eye on Erina.

Akira : (cough)

Erina whom were playing with her nails didn’t realize Akira was already standing not far from her,she kept on looking at her nails since she just got it done at the saloon a while  ago.

Akira : I see that you found your way back?

Erina : (shocked)

Akira : (grins)

Erina : Akira!?

Erina went straight to Akira to give him a hug and she smiled brightly at Akira.

Erina : Oh my god,you’re so good looking now!

Akira : Im always good looking.

Erina : (laughing)

Akira : How are you?

Erina : Im fine,perfectly fine!

Akira : Are you here on a vacation?

Erina : As a matter of fact yes,my friend is upstairs.

Akira : Your what?

Erina : My friend!

Akira : Just checked in?

Erina : Yes! I just arrived here about 2 hours ago and and !

Akira : And?

Erina : I saw Ishikawa’s name on the board so I asked if there is any Ishikawa Karin here.And I didn’t know all of you are here!

Akira : Not all of us but well,some of us.(monotone)

Erina : Whats with that tone,Akira?

Before Akira could response to Erina’s question,a tall dark haired guy approached them and he went to stand beside Akira. Both of them looked at each other for a while before Erina finally introduced the guy to Akira

Erina :Oh Im sorry, this is Ishikawa Akira. And Akira, this is Yuki,my husband.

Akira : Your what?

Erina : Husband.

Yuki : Nice to meet you Akira (smiles)

Akira put out his hand to exchange handshakes.

Akira : Nice to meet you too and Im sorry if this is too late but congratulations on your marriage.(smiling)

Erina :Thank you!Thats so sweet of you!

Akira : When did you guys..married?

Erina looked at Yuki before finally tugging on his arms.

Erina : Last week!

Yuki : (smiles)

Akira : Congratulations again Erina, and Yuki.

Karin : eh?

Akira : Karin?

Erina : Karin!

Karin : What do you want?

The cold tone in Karin’s voice definitely has killed the cheerful vibes around them and even Yuki couldn’t even response to Karin.

Erina : Ka..Karin.

Akira : I think we should..go for a walk,don’t you think,Yuki?

Yuki : Are you okay Erina?

Erina: Im fine Yuki.This will only take a moment.(smiles)

Karin : (staring at Erina)

Yuki bowed a little to Karin but Karin didn’t even move an inch,her eyes were locked on Erina.

Erina : I apologize for the sudden appearance here but--

Karin : Lets go to the lounge.

Karin didn’t even wait for Erina to finish her sentence and she just walked ahead of her,leaving Erina speechless .

LOUNGE

Karin : Talk

Erina : I came here for good.I came back for good. I need to apologize ..I want to apologize for what had happened .

Karin : You dared to show your face in front of me.

Erina : Karin..please.

Karin : ..

Erina  : Okay,after I left. I went to Korea. I stayed there for a while. I ruined people’s life and I was still living that time. I was bad I know.I know that,nobody needs to remind me of that dark past. I didn’t even care about what happened to Haruka and Kaname. I got what I want,which was to ruin their relationship. I was stupid of course. A few weeks later,I got into an accident.A terrible one. I broke my neck and ribs. I was in coma for about 5 months. I was awake but my mind was empty. All I could think of is all the things I did to Kaname and Haruka. I recovered and I got married.The man just now,he is my husband.

Karin : (looking at Erina)

Erina : I know you would not accept my apology but I don’t think Kaname would accept my apology.But I want to try. Bumping into you here is not a mere coincidence. I don’t mind if you don’t want to forgive me but you need to know.

Karin : Im sorry to hear about your accident.And no I am not that mean to not forgive you but I am not that angelic to accept you .

Erina :….

Karin : But, you should know that you shall not show yourself to Kaname.

Erina : I know.

Karin : I am sorry but I don’t think Kaname can take anymore of this issue

Erina : I know Karin.I understand.

Karin : I shall take my leave now.

Karin stood up and she bowed to Erina before turning around to leave the table. But then she stopped and turn to Erina.

Karin : Congratulations on your marriage,Erina.

Chapter 43 - Erina

HOTEL’S LOUNGE

Ichirou : So this is the list of the journalist that are gonna be at the press tomorrow.

Kaname : Okay

Kaname browse through the papers Ichirou handed to him a while ago and nods as he read the names of the journalist one by one.

Akira : I’ll be at the back with Isane (winks)

Kaname : You guys are going to make sure no one gets in the way.

Isane : No one is getting in the way Kaname.Chill.

Kaname : Don’t start Isane.

Isane : (laughing)

Akira : How long has it been since the last time we sat together ?

Ichirou : Now that you mention it!

Isane : Probabaly last year.

Kaname : Well,you’re the one who travels everywhere everytime.(looking at Isane)

Isane : Im working Kaname,not fooling around like this guy.

Akira : Shut up Isane. Im working too.

Kaname : (smirks)

Isane : Well,looks whos still here.

All eyes turned to the guy in casual clothes whom just entered the lounge alone and he was walking towards the other end of the lounge room.

Akira : I thought you said he’s going back?

Ichirou : how should I know .

Kaname and Isane exchanged glances and both of them turned to look at Ichirou.

Ichirou : What.

Isane : ….                  

Kaname : You know what to do.

Ichirou : You both are so annoying (rolling his eyes)

Ichirou stood up and gave both Isane and Kaname one last look before going to the table where the guy they saw sat.

Akira :Whats with Kudo-san?

Isane : You’re too young to understand.

Kaname : (looking at Ichirou)

Akira : (annoyed)

Isane : Well,lets just wait till Ichirou comes back,shall we?

Ichirou greeted Senri and Senri asked him to join the table before both of them finally sat.

Ichirou : I thought your flight is tonight?

Kudo : My brother actually booked the wrong date ,so here I am.(laughing)

Ichirou : I see. Are you sure it is okay for me to join you?

Kudo : Why not? (laughing)

Ichirou : Dinner yet?

Kudo : I did just now. You?

Ichirou : Just did too.

Kudo : Anyway, I have questions to ask.

Ichirou: Go on .

Kudo : Is Kaname married?

Ichirou : (laughing) No of course no,why?

Kudo :I heard about the press conference tomorrow. They were talking about him and his partner.So I was curious. Don’t want to make silly assumptions so that’s why I asked (rubbing his neck)

Ichirou : No no, he is not married!

Kudo : I see. Well,I must have heard wrongly.

Ichioru : What about you (lifting his eyebrows)

Senri let out a laugh before finally responding to Ichirou’s statement.

Kudo :No,of course not.

Ichirou : Girlfriend?

Kudo : I had one but it was long time ago.

Ichirou : Broke up ?

Kudo : It was just a mere relationship.

Ichirou : I see,or you still have the one you wanted to be with?

Kudo : (laughing)

Ichirou : Sounds like you do.

Kudo : Well who knows. Time flies,things change,people change.Not everything can stay the same as it is,right?

Ichirou : true that(nodding)

Kudo : How about you?

Ichirou : Im still young to be thinking about relationships (winks)

Kudo : I see, too early to be thinking is it.

Ichirou : Where are you from actually?

Kudo : Tokyo.I was born there and my family seems to not want to move anywhere else (laughing)

Ichirou : High school?

Kudo :in Tokyo too.

Ichirou : Pretty sure your friends are here too? I mean in Tokyo.

Kudo: In fact yes. I met one of my classmate recently. She’s working in your building.

Ichirou : really!?

Kudo : At the café at the lobby. I think you’ve seen her.

Ichirou : May I know the name.

Kudo : Risa,Okumura Risa. Long black hair and fair skin.

Ichirou :I think I have seen her(nodding)

Kudo : Indeed.Risa is hard not to notice.

Ichirou : Sounds like you and her were more than classmates (grinning)

Kudo : No No,we had nothing. It’s just that someone like Risa is hard for you not to notice.Long black hair and fair skin. She stands outs.

Ichirou : Kudo Senri,if I were some stranger I would have concluded that you are actually in love with this woman (laughing)

Kudo said nothing but he just laughed and denied whatever Ichirou has said to him.

KANAME’S SUITE

Karin : So Kaname,I have briefed Risa about tomorrow night.So, I think she is well prepared and you have nothing to worry!

Kaname stopped Karin halfway and Karin turn to him with a face full of question

Karin : What?

Kaname : What about the English?

Karin : What about it?

Kaname : Risa?

Karin : (laughing)

Kaname : (confused)

Karin tapped on Kaname’s shoulder and continued to the door.She twisted the knob and then she stopped

Karin : Don’t worry Kaname. Don’t worry ,we have it all prepared (laughing)

Karin closed the door behind her,leaving Kaname speechless and she cant help but to laugh out loud while walking towards her suite.

Kaname : (rubbing the back of his neck)

Kaname looked around looking for Risa and he spotted her in the kitchen.

Kaname : What are you doing?

Risa : Tea?

Kaname took a seat at the dining table and he loosen his tie and put it on the table. It was such a long day at the conference room and he feels so tired. His brain is so full of work that all he could think of is going to sleep.

Risa placed a mug infront of Kaname and she went straight to the couch .

Kaname : (confused)

Risa : Its chamomile tea,it helps you to calm down.

Kaname : Calm down?

Risa : You had a busy day ? So,chamomile tea helps. Drink it.

Kaname stared at the mug for a while and he turn to Risa again.

Risa  :I am not going to assassinate you,the tea is safe.No poison. (rolling her eyes)

Kaname : Thank you for the tea.

Risa : Don’t mention it.

Kaname : Where do you learn about this tea?

Risa : Sho,from the café.

Kaname : Sho?

Risa : The barista? At the café? Your building?

Kaname : Oh.

Risa : Enjoy your tea.

Risa stood up and walked towards her room.

Kaname : Chamomile tea it is.

RISA’S ROOM

Risa : Now now now,what should I do.

Suddenly there was a knock on her door and that made her startled.

Risa : Its not lock

Kaname opened the door and he stood there at the door frame.

Risa : Yes?

Kaname : You want to go out?

Risa : Go out? (confused)

Kaname : Yes out,I heard there is a nice ramen stall 10 minutes walk from the hotel.

Risa : Are you having one of your cravings again?

Kaname : Well,since we are here.why not?

Risa : Fine,I’ll follow you.

Kaname : On one condition.

Risa : Condition?

Kaname : If you pass out again,Im going to leave you on the street.

Risa : Shut up

KARIN’S SUITE

Karin was lying down on her bed after taking a long hot shower. Suddenly the hotel’s phone rang and that made her startled she almost jump off the bed.

Karin : Hello?

Lady : Good Evening ,Miss Ishikawa.There is a guest down here by the name of Ogata Erina requested that we call in order to inform that she would like to meet you.

Karin : (shocked)

Lady : Ishikawa-san?

Karin : Ogata who?

Lady : Ogata Erina.

Karin : Tell her I’ll be down in 15 minutes.

Lady : will do Ishikawa-san.

Karin : Thank you.

Karin literally slamped the phone and took a really deep breath before finally standing up to get dressed

Chapter 42 - Risa

EVENING

Risa was already awake for long but she didn’t feel like getting out of the bed. She was still trying to gather her thoughts and tracing back what had happened .

Risa : Did I literally pass out (sigh)

Risa finally  got up and she stretches before getting out of the bed. Her hair was in a mess and she didn’t even care to brush it.

Risa : What happened actually…

Suddenly there was a knock on the door and Risa quickly went towards the door.Before she could even turn the door know,Kaname has already open it and she quickly stepped back.

Kaname : Why are you out of bed?

Risa : Why am I out of bed?

Kaname :How are you feeling?

Risa : Just fine.

Kaname : You passed out just now.

Risa : I what?

Kaname : Passed out.At the lobby.

Risa : Shit.

Kaname : You need to eat.I’ve ordered something so you can help yourself and eat.

Risa : I passed out.

Kaname : Yes.

Risa : Now that’s interesting.

Kaname abruptyly went to Risa and placed his palm on her forehead.

Kaname : No fever. The doctor said you were stressed.

Risa : Doctor? Wait,what doctor?

Kaname : you passed out .At the lobby,infront of everyone. Of course we called a doctor to check on you.

Risa : Oh thank you.

Kaname : (looking at Risa)

Risa : Im all fine now.

Kaname : Good. Anyway,Karin has brought the dress you need to wear for tomorrow’s press conference.

Risa : Okay.

Kaname : Get some rest. You look like someone who just escaped the jail

Risa : Shut it Kaname.Dont start.

Kaname : I’ll be outside if you need anything.

Kaname left the room and Risa was left alone in the room once again.She let out big sigh after Kaname left.

Risa : My life is screwed.

AKIRA AND ISANE’S SUITE

Akira : She what?

ISane : Passed out.

Akira : Is she sick?

Isane : No,just stressed.

Akira : What do you mean stressed?

Isane : Stressed.

Akira : How can she be stressed.

Isane : …

Akira : Now this is worrying.

Isane : You should be worried more on the press conference tomorrow.

Akira : Ah…that’s a thing too.

NEXT MORNING

Kaname : He studied at the same school as her?

Ichirou : yes yes.

Kaname : Wait,I’ll talk to you later.

Kaname hung up when he heard Risa’s turning her door’s know. Kaname was at the balcony when risa came out of her room.

Risa : (sigh)

Kaname : Whats with the sigh early in the morning?

Risa : Nothing.

Kaname : I need to talk to you.

Risa : About?

Kaname walked straight to the couch and sat on it. Risa just stood there looking so blank.

Kaname : Sit,Risa.

Risa : What do you want to talk about?

Kaname : Alright, lets take this very slow.

Risa : (confused)

Kaname : I wouldn’t want you to think that I am interfering with your personal matters or anything.But I have some questions to ask.It is up to you if you want to answer them or not.

Risa : Im listening.

Kaname : Do you know Kudo Senri?

Risa stared at Kaname for a while before finally taking a seat on the one-seater couch .

Risa : Yes.Wait,if you want to know about Kudo Senri.You can just ask.

Kaname : (surprised)

Risa : He’s my high school friend.

Kaname : And?

Risa : And…what?

Kaname : Is he the one who caused you to pass out?

Risa : (shocked)

Kaname : Don’t think I don’t know about this Risa. You have been acting really weird when we arrived here.

Risa : Its..nothing.

Kaname : Consider me as your friend.

Risa : (gulp)

Kaname : Don’t you think I have the right to know whats been stressing you these days?

Risa : Fine,I’ll tell you. Kudo Senri is my high school friend. We were close but something happened that made me …well like this.

Kaname : Made you like?

Risa :Can we just drop this?

Kaname : No.

Risa : Suit yourself.

Kaname : (sigh)

Risa : I don’t feel like talking about this Kaname.I’ll tell you but not now.

Kaname : Karin is on her way here.Im heading out. Make sure to get something to eat.If you pass out again,I’ll throw you into the swimming pool.

Risa : Thank you so much for making me feel better (annoyed)

Kaname : Lock the doors.

Kaname left the suite leaving Risa alone in the suite.Ichirou was waiting outside of the suite and he smiled at Kaname when he saw him.

Ichirou : How did it go!?

Kaname : Im never going to do this again.

Ichirou : (rolling his eyes)

Kaname : Lets go.

Ichirou : You look like a boyfriend who just had a fight with his girlfriend(laughing)

Kaname : Shut up Ichirou.

Ichirou : Hai hai .(laughing)

Risa was alone in the suite,waiting for Karin to arrive but her mind is still cloudy that she didn’t even move an inch after Kaname left the room.Suddenly the bell rang and that made me Risa shrieked a little

Karin : Risa-chan!!

Risa : (opening the door)

Karin : I bought some food for you!

Karin had her hand full with plastics filled with various food and Risa cant take her eyes off the plastics.

Risa : Are you having a party or--

Karin : Yes! Since Kaname is out with Ichirou.Im gonna be here,taking care of you.

Risa closed the door and turn to look at Karin whom are already at the dining table,preparing all the food she bought and she realized the food Kaname bought is on the table too.

Karin : Come,sit sit!

Risa : …

Karin : How are you feeling?

Risa : Much,much better.

Karin : (looking at Risa)

Risa : Are you going to ask me about Kudo Senri?

Karin : (laughing)

Risa : (confused)

Karin : I bet Kaname has asked you too?

Risa : he troubled himself asking me.

Karin : Are you going to tell me?

Risa : Are you ready?

Karin : Fire away Risa.(laughing)

Risa : I’ve met him during my junior high school. He was in my class through out the years. We’ve been so close,Kudo,Yuuka and me.Yuuka transferred to the school a month after the new year. So, well I’ve been liking him since and I didn’t have the guts to tell him until during our graduation dinner. Well, I must be high that time to actually confessed to him that night. And we decided to meet the day after.  I called him the next morning, but surprisingly Yuuka answered the phone.

Karin : And..?

Risa : She answered and she told me that she is seeing Kudo. She hopes that I wont interfere in their relationship. She said that Kudo asked to cancel the meeting. It was very direct and I didn’t even have the guts to say anything.I hung up and broke down. That was the first time I feel like dying. Its like a big slap on your face,having hopes but finally knowing that there was not any hopes.Well,I was young and blunt that time. I didn’t know what to do. So,I called my dad saying that I would want to go abroad and he was happy since that was his initial plans. Everything was so fast since my dad was already abroad,so I left a few days after that. And the only person who knows about my studying abroad is my family and Aya.

Karin : And what happened to you and Kudo?

Karin : I bumped into him at the train station last week. It was not something I expected after all these painful 5 years of running away. We met at the café, and he seemed not to know about Yuuka at all. But I met Yuuka in New York while I was doing my final year. She approached me and cried saying that she was sorry for everything.

Karin : Sorry?

Risa : It was not Kudo who cancelled the meeting. It was Yuuka. All these time,she had feelings for Kudo and when she told me that the night I approached Kudo,he was actually telling Yuuka about confessing his feelings.

Karin whom were sipping on her juice almost spurted out her drink and she quicly wiped her mouth.

Karin : Oh my god….

Risa : Yuuka told me that a few minutes before I approached them that night, Kudo was telling all his plans to confess to me. He had no idea Yuuka has been liking him .Yuuka was hurt that she had to do that. Tellng me that she was dating him and everything.But, Yuuka regretted it and she apologized for ruining everything and she had been wanting to see me. So,I told him the truth that day and..

Karin : He still wants you

Risa : (sigh)

Karin : He didn’t know about you and Kaname?

Risa : I don’t know.I think no.

Karin : This is the thing that has been disturbing you?

Risa : I feel so heavy.My head is heavy.My mind is not in any state I can take everything . Seeing him here in Japan tears me up. Seeing him here in this hotel just breaks me even more. But, just what can I do. I am the one being silly burdening my head about this.

Karin : But the question is…

Risa : ??

Karin : Do you still like him?

Risa : …….

Karin : Now,that’s your job to figure it out (winks)

Chapter 41

HOTEL ROOM

Risa was standing  at the balcony,resting her arms on the corridor walls,staring into space.

Risa : I should have stayed at the States.

Suddenly the door to the suite swung open and the first person to appear is Ichirou.

Ichirou : Risa-chan!!

Risa : (shocked)Ichirou?

Ichirou : How are you feeling??

Risa : I am just fine.

Kaname : Why are you so happy Ichirou.

Ichirou : Here!

Ichirou placed a plastic bag filled with food on the coffee table .

Ichirou : Eat up Risa!

Risa : Why--

Ichirou : Just eat them.

Risa : When did you arrive?

Ichirou : Around 5 like that.I took a later flight since I need to settle some stuffs.

Kaname : Ichirou and I are gonna discuss some work so you go ahead and eat up.

Ichirou : We’ll be  at the lounge area if you need us Risa!

Kaname just shake his head looking at Ichirou before going out of the room,Ichirou bid Risa goodbye before closing the door behind him.

Ichirou : What work, Kaname. (smirking)

Kaname : Come,I need to talk to you.

Ichirou : I bet this is about that Kudo Senri (excited)

Kaname : Lower your voice Ichiriou.

Ichirou : Chill Kaname,chill (tapping on Kaname’s shoulder)

SUITE

Risa : Why am I even worried that he will see me here (rubbing her head)

Risa took the rice ball and began filling her tummy with all the food Ichirou bought. She is so hungry that she cant think straight at all at that moment.

Risa : Alright,let just suck it up

LOUNGE

Ichirou : What!?

Kaname : (staring at his drink)

Ichirou : Wait wait,that Kudo knows Risa?

Kaname : Yes.

Ichirou : Now now now, what relationship does he have with Risa?

Kaname : I don’t know.I don’t know if I want to find out.

Ichirou : Don’t you want to find out?

Kaname stopped playing with his drink and turn to Ichirou.

Kaname : You know something.

Ichirou : I didn’t say that.

Kaname : Don’t lie to me Ichirou.I have known for almost 5 years.

Ichirou : I didn’t say anything.Its just you might need to talk to Risa. Get to know whats going in her life. Its not hard.

Kaname :Its hard for me.

Ichirou : I’ll tell you why its hard.

NEXT DAY

Risa was already up early that morning that she decided to walk around the hotel lobby. She was feeling a bit stiff that she needs to walk around she thought.

Risa : This hotel has such good arch design I suppose. (looking around)

Isane : You are up early.

Risa : (shocked)

Risa quickly turn around when she heard Isane’s voice.

Isane : Good Morning (smiles)

Risa : …Good…morning..

Isane :Did I surprise you?

Risa : Karin didn’t tell me you were coming.

Akira : Changed of plan, all of us decided to come.(winks)

Akira suddenly appeared beside Isane and he was only wearing a pair of jogging pants and a tshirt.

Risa  was still digesting the fact that both of them are here,infront of her acting all casual while she cant even breath when Isane appeared. But, as she was thinking, she saw a figure she recognizes the most and that made her heart stopped for a while.

Risa :… I need to go.

Isane was fast to catch where Risa’s eyes are looking and he quickly turned to the direction Risa was looking before she fleed.Risa didn’t even wait for Isane and Akira to response and she just went straight to the ladies toilet .

Akira : Did we ..

Isane : (eyeing the man)

Akira : Did we like surprised her till she need to run away(confused)

Isane : Come Akira,the conference starts at 9. We need to go and change.

Akira : Fine fine.

LADIES TOILET

Risa : Oh my god.Risa,you have to gather your senses.

Risa washed her face several times before finally wiping it.She stared at the mirror and subsequently trying to stabilize her breating. She cant even breath properly with this kind of things happening all at once and so sudden.

Risa : Alright,lets go.

Risa peeped before going out,ensuring that Senri is not there anymore. Bumping into Senri here would not be a sound idea and she must not let him see her here.

KANAME’S ROOM

Kaname  : She is not in the room .

Karin : What did you say!?

Karin was screaming on the phone when Kaname told her that.

Karin : What  did you do?

Kaname : I didn’t do anything.Look,Im trying to get ready for the conference here.Would you at least talk about this later?

Karin : I’ll see you at the 2^nd floor in 30 minutes.

Kaname hung up and placed his phone on the table. Kaname took his navy blue tie and went outside of his room to check if Risa has returned.He was shocked to see Risa leaning on the door,looking troubled and worried.

Risa : (breathing hard)

Kaname: (staring at her)

Risa lifted her head up when she realized Kaname was there and she tried her best to look normal.

Kaname : Did a dog chased you here?

Risa : shut it Kaname.You’re going to be late.

Kaname : (wearing his tie)

Risa : I saw Akira and Isane at the lobby just now.

Kaname : They’re here? That’s fast.

Risa : (nodding)

Kaname : I’m going to the conference. Make sure you bring the room card if you’re going anywhere.

Risa : Okay.

Kaname : And

Risa : Yes?

Kaname : Just order the room service if you don’t feel like going out.Order anything you want.

Risa : Noted that.

Kaname took a last look of him on the mirror before leaving Risa alone in the suite.

Risa locked the door and exhaled loudly before leaning on the door.She slided to the floor and  stayed still for a while.

Risa : I shouldn’t have come back here.

CONFERENCE ROOM

Many delegates from various companies have started filling the big room and Karin was there greeting everyone.

Karin : (looking around)

Kaname : Karin.

Karin : There you are!

Kaname : Akira and Isane?

Karin : They insisted they follow me to the conference.

Kaname : Really.

Karin : What about Risa?

Kaname : She’s in the room.

Karin : Did you guys fight?

Kaname : No. Save it Karin.Im going in.

Karin : Ichirou is inside.He was searching for you.

CAFÉ

Aya : My life is never gonna be at ease .

Aoi  : And why is that?

Emi : With Risa stuck in Kyoto with Senri and Kaname.I cant even sleep last night.

Aoi : Senri wants her back?

Aya : More like I don’t know.

Emi : Oh wait look!

Emi was flipping the ViVi magazine of the month and she spotted her photos. She took the photo and showed it to Aoi.

Aoi : Is that you?

Emi : I told you. I went to ViVi last week.

Aoi : That’s was fast

.

Emi : They told me they’ve been wanting me to be in their magazine. So so..(flipping her hair)

Aoi : (nodding)

Aya : Im gonna give  her a call.

Emi : Risa?

Sho : Just give her some time to think Aya. Who knows she can figure it out.

Aya : AHHHHHHH THIS IS FRUSTRATING.

KYOTO

Everyone bowed to each other and bidding their goodbyes after the conference has finally come to an end.All the delegates exchange handshakes and all of them are heading towards the hotel’s restaurant for lunch. While on the other side,Akira and Isane were still seated on the chair minding their own business.

Kaname : Why are you both still  here?

Isane : Nothing.

Akira : Lets go out for lunch?

Kaname : Ichirou and I are meeting Kudo Senri for further discussions.You both go ahead.

Isane : Kudo Senri?

Ichirou : Kudo Senri,the new architect assigned under us.

Akira : What do you mean under us?

Ichirou : The Kudo Company decided to organize some inter relation work with us therefore,they sent him.

Akira : So?

Isane : Which means,he’ll be under Kaname?

Ichirou : He is a new architect,1 year experience.

Akira : Really.

Ichirou : There he is!

Senri were greeting others when he spotted Ichirou and the rest at one corner.

Akira : (turning to Ichirou’s direction)

Ichirou : This is Kudo Senri

Akira and Isane stood up so that they can shake Senri’s hands and both of them exchanged smiles.

Akira : Ishikawa Akira(bows)

Isane : Ishikawa Isane.

Senri : Kudo Senri.My pleasure meeting you guys here.

HOTEL’S LOUNGE

Senri : So,that would be the agreement and I’ll discuss with the board of directors next Monday.

Kaname : (nodding)

Senri : Is there anything else?

Kaname : I think that would be all.

Senri : I shall take my leave then.

Ichirou : Flying back to Tokyo?

Senri : My flight is tonight but I need to head somewhere first.

Kaname : I see.

Ichirou : Take care Kudo!

Senri : You both too. My pleasure to be doing business with the Ishikawa Company.

Kaname : The honour is ours.

Senri bowed a little before leaving Ichirou and Kaname alone at the table.

Ichirou : So, are you done judging?

Kaname :Shut up Ichirou.

Ichirou : Have you asked Risa?

Kaname : I haven’t.

Ichirou : Damn it.I would never tell you who is him until you ask her yourself.This is the chance.

Kaname : What I know is, Risa and Kudo is not just normal friends.

Ichirou  just let out a small laugh when Kaname said that.

HOTEL’S LOBBY

Risa was walking towards the the entrance door when suddenly somebody grabbed her  left arm and pull her to the side.

Isane : Don’t move.

Risa was still in state of shocked when she found her self in Isane’s arms  and her face was so close to Isane’s chest but she cant even move.It was quite a while until Isane loosen his grip on Risa’s hands and create a space between both of them.

Isane : I apologize for the sudden action

Risa seemed to sense something that she quickly turn around to find that it was Senri walking towards the other end of the entrance and thank god Isane pulled her,if he hadn’t, she would have bumped into Senri.

Risa : (turning to Isane)

Isane : I may not know what you have with that guy but I know you would not want to see him.

Risa : How did --

Isane : Now that’s a man secret.Where are you heading?

Risa : I was just trying to get fresh air,I was not aware the conferece has ended.

Isane : Kaname is still at the conference room.

Risa : (nodding)

Isane : You look pale.

Risa : I need fresh air that’s all.I think I’ll go to the garden.

Isane : Karin is here.

Risa quickly turn to Karin whome were walking towards her direction.Karin had a big smile on her face when she saw Risa.

Karin : Risa-chan!So good to see you here.How are you?

Risa : Im fine as always. (smiles)

Karin : Have you eaten?

Risa : I--

Kaname : You haven’t?

All three of them turn to Kaname whom appeared out of nowhere and that does not help Risa to calm down.She was too dizzy and too disturbed to even digest whatever are they saying. The last thing she knew that all three of them were looking directly at her before she pass out.

RISA’S ROOM

Risa was still unconscious when the doctor finished the check up on her.The doctor took her leave after ensuring that Risa is fine,she was just stressed and she needs to rest.

Karin : Stress?

Kaname :…

Karin : Did something happen,Kaname?

Kaname: Nothing happened,Karin.

Karin : (sigh)

Kaname : She’s been acting quite weird when we arrived.

Karin :Is there anything I don’t know Kaname?

Kaname : I cant never lie to you,can I.

Karin : Spill it out.

Karin was staring right at Kaname when she knew Kaname is hiding something from her.

Kaname : Is that guy named Kudo Senri. He was the guy Risa met at the café few days ago.

Karin : Wait,the friend..is him?

Kaname : yes, I think she must have found out he was here and probably her mind is just disturbed after meeting him that day.

Karin : Disturbed?

Kaname : She’s been acting all weird since that meeting. And weirder when we arrived here.

Karin : Who is this Kudo Senri.

Kaname : Well, Karin,this is the time you do your magic.

Karin : Come,lets leave here alone in the room.She needs to rest.I’m going back to my room to clean up.Call me if she wakes up.

Chapter 40 - Kudo

KYOTO

Kaname was watching as the driver was putting their bags at the back of the car while Risa just keep on scrolling her phone.

Kaname : Get in Risa.

Risa: What?

Risa was still focused on her phone and didn’t realize the door to the car was already opened.

Kaname : The car?

Risa : Oh! Im sorry.

Kaname closed the door after he has hoped in and the driver drove them straight to the hotel Karin has booked for them.

HOTEL

Risa kept staring at the big suite infront of her and she just stood still until the doormen closed the door behind her.

Kaname : Why are you standing there?

Risa : Why are we in the same room?

Kaname : Im your boyfriend,why would I be in another room?

Risa : Shut up. Why are we in the same room?

Kaname : Ask Karin,she said there is no need to book 2 suites when there is 2 master bedroom in this suite.

Risa : (rubbing her head)

The thought of having to live under the same roof and in the same room with Kaname makes her head spin and she needs air.

Kaname : You can choose your room.

Risa : I’ll take this one.

Risa ignored kaname and walked straight to the room on her right.She walked halfway towards the room before stopping.She turned around to take her luggage and walked straight into her room.

Kaname : This is gonna be a long 5 days.(rubbing his neck)

RISA’S ROOM

Risa unpacked everything and she was sitting at the edge of her bed,thinking of what to do to kill time.

Risa : I have nothing to do till Wednesday.

Suddenly her phone rang and the name “ Aya” appeared on the screen.

Aya : Hello lovebirds!How is your pre wedding honeymoon!?

Risa : What are you talking about.

Aya : (laughing)

Risa : What do you want.

Aya : Come on Risa,where are you now?

Risa : Im in my room.

Aya : Where is Kaname.

Risa : I don’t know.Outside perhaps

Aya : Wait,are you guys in different rooms?

Risa : In my dreams.

Aya : (laughing)

Risa : Im hanging up.

Aya : Im joking alright,just checking on you. Nothing will happen between you both ,so chill.

Risa : Im definitely hanging up.

Aya : Wait don’t!!

Risa : What?(sigh)

Aya : Guess what.

Risa : What.

Aya : Senri stopped by just now.

Risa: Senri?

Aya : Yes your long lost lover Kudo Senri.

Risa : And?

Aya : I asked him if he is going anywhere because he seems to be busy with all the bags just now.

Risa : And…?

Aya : He told me he is going to Kyoto for a conference this Tuesday.

Risa : (shocked)

Aya : Wait,where is your hotel?

Risa : Hyatt Regency.I think so,I didn’t even look at the name.

Aya : Your life is screwed Risa.Officialy screwed.

Risa : …

Aya : He is going to the same place!

Risa almost dropped her phone to the floor but she quickly gather her senses and replied to Aya.

Aya : Risa? Still there?

Risa : Did he--

Aya : He did tell me that he just finished his meeting with some Ishikawa people and that’s why I called you!

Risa : (sigh)

Aya : I hope you bump into him!

Risa : Shut it Aya.

Aya : Anyway,take good care of yourself Risa! Don’t think too much.Everything is going to be just fine. Despite your life is screwed by now (laughing)

Risa : (face palm)

LIVING ROOM

Kaname was reading a newspaper when Risa got out of the room. Kaname lifther her head when he heard Risa coming out from her room.

Risa : I have questions.

Kaname put down the newspaper when Risa said that and he looked at Risa.

Kaname : Questions?

Risa :  What conference do you have here?

Kaname : Conference?

Risa : Yes,you have a conference is not it?

Kaname : Yes,as a matter of fact yes.Its tomorrow.

Risa : The interview?

Kaname : Wednesday.

Risa : Is that all?

Kaname : Yes.

Risa : Thursday?

Kaname : I have a few board meetings.

Risa : Friday?

Kaname : Nothing much.Only some casual meals with the other directors.

Risa : Okay then.

Risa abruptly got into her room and locked the door.Her body actually began heating up and her mind seems to be so cloudy because she has been thinking too much. She hold on to the dresser and quickly sat on the stool infront of the make up table.

Risa : You are going to be fine.Just fine.As always. (exhaling)

NIGHT

Kaname stared at Risa’s door ,having doubts either to check on her or to let her be. Risa was in her room since the moment they arrived and she didn’t eat anything at all.

Kaname : Is she asleep or..

Suddenly his phone rang and he answered it right away.

Ichirou : I have just arrived!

Kaname : That’s a good thing to hear.

Ichirou : Come,lets have dinner together!

Kaname : I’ll be down in 10 minutes.

Ichirou : Don’t forget Risa(laughing)

Kaname : (hung up)

Kaname put his phone in his pockets and continues staring at Risa’s door.

Kaname : Screw it.

Kaname walked towards Risa door and when he was just about to knock her door,the door swung open and Risa appeared at the door frame.

Risa : What are you doing?

Kaname : Nothing.

Risa : (confused)

Kaname :…

Risa : Why are you infront of my door?

Kaname : Nothing,I was just about to go out for dinner with Ichirou.

Risa : Have fun.

Kaname : You are tagging along.

Risa : I am not hungry so you go ahead.

Risa walked towards the kitchen to get a canned drink and she went back inside.

Kaname : Fine then

HOTEL’S RESTAURANT

Ichirou : I am pretty sure you will like our director.He is very good.

Senri : I am honored to meet him before the conference.

Ichirou : Lucky that we got the same flight,didn’t know that you were the architect sent to us.

Senri : I didn’t expect it too but it happened (laughing)

Ichirou : There he is!

Kaname  : Sorry for being late.

Senri stood up to shake Kaname’s hand and Kaname smiled at him.

Kaname : Ishikawa Kaname.

Senri : Senri,Kudo Senri.

Kaname recognized Senri right away but he pretends no to know him

Ichirou : Kudo is the architect we supposed to meet tomorrow for the conference!

Kaname : I see.My honour to be dining with you Kudo.

Senri : My honor too to be meeting you Ishikawa.

Ichirou : Where is--

Kaname : She is not coming down.Now,lets order.

Ichirou was shocked when Kaname cut him off but knowing Kaname,he knew something is not right.

Ichirou : Alright,lets order.Where is the waiter just now??

Chapter 39

ISHIKAWA’S RESIDENCE

Karin : (knocks)

Kaname : Come in Karin.

Karin : (grinning)

Kaname was lying on his bed reading his novel when Karin walked in and sat infront of him

Karin : Have you packed?

Kaname : (pointing to the luggage)

Karin : Excited you are indeed…

Kaname : (ignoring Karin)

Karin : I’ll be coming on Wednesday.So you take good care of Risa for me.

Kaname : (nodding)

Karin : Say yes.

Kaname : (nodding)

Karin : YES!

Kaname : Yes Karin,yes.

Karin : I’ll be staying with Tatsuya today.So Im here to say goodbye to my cute little brother.

Kaname : Tatsuya picking you up?

Karin : he’s downstairs,talking to otou-san.

Kaname : Oka-san?

Karin : Out for shopping.

Kaname : Okay.

Karin : Arent you gonna go out somewhere?

Kaname : No,I don’t think so.

Karin : Did you message Risa?

Kaname : Message?

Karin : Message …?

Kaname : For what?

Karin : (sigh)

Kaname : Ask her out?

Karin : Exactly ! Do what couples do please Kaname.

Kaname : But we are no even seeing each other.Whats the point.

Karin : I wouldn’t be surprise if Akira or Isane get Risa (annoyed)

Kaname : Trust me,they wont.

Karin : (looking at Kaname) Whats with the sudden confidence..

Kaname : Well, Im her boyfriend. No one gets her except me.

Karin look at Kaname with such a suspicious look and then she grabbed Kaname’s face .

Karin : Am I looking at a jealous boyfriend? (smirking)

Kaname : Leave me alone,don’t let your man wait too long.

Karin : fine fine.

Karin stood up and gave Kaname a short hug before finally leaving his room.Kaname closed his novel and let out a sigh.

Kaname : (sigh)

RISA’S HOUSE

Risa was tying her shoe laces when her phone rang and an unknown number appeared on the screen.

Risa : Hello

Kaname : So you do pick up calls from unknown numbers?

Risa : Hah?

Kaname : Look up.

Risa quickly lift her head up to find Kaname standing  infront of her house,looking at her.

Risa :What is he doing here…

Risa get her shoes laces done before getting up and walk towards the door.

Kaname : Heading out?

Risa : Why are you here?

Kaname : Its  a Saturday.

Risa : And?

Kaname : Im craving for some takoyaki.

Risa : And..?

Kaname : You would have to accompany me today.

Risa : Wait,what?

Kaname : My treat.

Kaname was already walking ahead of Risa while Risa is still clueless and speechless with his sudden appearance infront of her house.

Risa : Wait,wait wait!

Kaname : (turning around)

Risa : Takoyaki is this way.(pointing to the other side of the road)

Kaname : (smiles)

Somewhere in the middle of Tokyo…

Emi was walking along the sidewalk alone after her one-man photo shoot at the studio. She loves walking around alone,observing people minding their own business and she just love to watch people.Emi was walking towards the bakery when she suddenly bumped into Akira whom were walking to the opposite way of hers.

Emi : Im so sorry I didn’t --

Akira : (shocked)

Emi : Oh shit.

Akira : Looks like we do have some sort of connection aren’t we (smiles)

Emi : (gulp)

Akira : Are you alright?

Emi : Im fine really am fine.

Emi was too shocked that she almost tripped  but then Akira was fast enough to grab her left arm and pull her closer to him.

Akira : Are you not well

Emi : Im perfectly fine and IM so so sorry I didn’t see you just now.

Akira : Its okay Hasegawa.NO harm done.Where are you heading.

Emi : No where actually

Akira : Have you taken your lunch?

Emi : I did.Yes.

Akira : (nodding)

Emi : I’ll see you around (smiles)

Emi quickly walked away before Akira could say anything else. She walked as fast as she could and turned to a right corner so that she could get out of Akira’s sight.

Akira : (smiling to himself)

Emi took a turn and she quickly got into one of the boutique to hide just in case Akira is still looking. She waited for a while before finally letting out a long sigh.

Emi : that..was dangerous.

TAKOYAKI STALL

Risa : (looking at Kaname)

Kaname : Have you packed your stuffs?

Risa : Yes I did. Half way.

Kaname : (looking at the park infront of him)

Risa : Are you drunk?

Kaname : Why is that?

Risa : Whats with the sudden appearance infront of my house?

Kaname : I was nearby,so I decided to drop by.

Risa : Oh..make sense.

Kaname : our flights would be at 9.45 am next Monday. The driver will drive us there.

Risa : Okay.

Kaname : I would probably going to order more takoyaki,you stay here.

Risa : Not going anywhere.

Kaname stood up and walked towards the stall and at the same time Risa’s phone rang. The name “ Emi “ appeared on her screen

Emi : RISA !!

Risa : Whats wrong Emi?

Emi : Where are you?

Risa : At the takoyaki stall.

Emi : You wouldn’t believe this.!!

Risa : What?

Emi : I bumped into Akira again,oh shit.

Risa : You what…

Emi : Wait,are you alone at the stall?

Risa : No,actually no..

Emi : with Kaori.

Risa : No…

Emi : Oka-san?

Risa : No…

Emi : Aya is at the  café…then who?

Risa : Its Kaname.

Emi : HEH!???

Risa : He suddenly appeared out of nowhere and asked to follow him.I think he is drunk. I cant even digest anything.

Emi: I cant even digest anything too.Whats wrong with these Ishikawa popping out everywhere,like mushrooms!?

Risa : Like I know the answer Emi.

Emi : Thank god I escaped.

Risa : I cant escape.

Emi : You gotta tell me about Senri alright,lets meet up at the café?

Risa : I’ll go straight to the café after this.

Emi : Around tea time?

Risa : Its almost 3 Emi, meet you at 4?

Emi : 4 it is!

Risa : See you then.

Emi : bye bye!

Risa : Now how do I tell this bossy man…

CAFÉ

Emi was already halfway towards the counter when Aya asked her get inside the counter.

Emi : What?

Aya : Just come here!

Emi quickly pushed the door open and went straight to the counter.

Aya : Bend down!

Emi : What!?

Aoi swiftly grabbed Emi’s shoulder and pushed her down so that she sits on the floor.

Aoi : Akira is seated outside,didn’t you realize?

Emi: What!?He’s back here?

Sho : What do you mean he’s back here?

Aya : What happened?

Emi : I just saw him just now while I was on my way here after the photoshoot.

SHo : You guys have chemistry man.

Aya : You did?He just arrived here like 5 minutes ago.

Emi : Mother of all troubles. Did he see me?

Sho : No,he didn’t.He was busy with his phone.

Aya : I asked him if he is waiting for someone.

Emi : And?

Aoi  He’s meeting Isane.

Emi : Oh shit,Risa is coming here.

Aya : what?

Aoi : Sounds like a mess today…

Emi : Now what should I do…

Sho : You can stay in the kitchen, with Megumi and Yuuki.

Emi : Good Idea.

Aya : Is Risa coming alone?

Emi : Kaname was with her when I called her.

Aya : HEH!???

Emi : trust me,I cant believe it too.

Aya : Whats with all these Ishikawas popping out from everywhere…(rubbing her  forehead)

Sho : Here comes Isane.

All heads turn to the direction Show s looking at they saw Isane walking towards Akira’s table.Emi tried to peep in between the others and she saw Isane .

Emi : (sigh)

Aya : Well,if Risa come with Kaname,I would love to see what happens next.

Emi : Im gonna go to the kitchen.

Emi removed her heels before actually crawling towards the kitchen.Aya and Sho cant help but to laugh looking at Emi trying her hard no to be seen by Akira.

Aoi : (pushing the door for her)

Emi : thank you  Aoi!(whispering)

Aoi  : pleasure is mine (laughing)

Aya : I need some drink(rubbing her forehead)

Sho : Everything is getting more interesting day by day I suppose.

Aya : You think so.

AKIRA’S TABLE

Isane : Have you ordered?

Akira : I haven’t.

Isane : Did you call Kaname?

Akira : I did but he didn’t answer.

Isane : He didn’t?

Akira : Let me try to call him again.

As Akira was about to call Kaname,he suddenly saw Risa walking towards the café and he quickly gestured Isane to turn around while his phone is still at his ear.

Isane : Risa?

Risa walked towards the café’s door without looking around,she walked in and went straight to Aya.

Aya : Welcome!

Risa : Save me.

Aya : Why?

Risa : Why does all Ishikawas love to appear everywhere?

Aya : (laughing)

Sho : you came alone?

Risa : KAname is here but he went to the washroom.

Aya : You came with Kaname?

Risa : He said he needed to drop by the office so we came together.

Aya : That’s weird.

Risa : Its annoying.

Sho : How annoying

Risa : He is like ..I don’t even know how to explain.

Aya: Well,why not trying to look at your 5 o’clock.

Risa quickly turn around to find Isane and Akira smiling at her and she cant do anything else but to smile back at them.She quickly turn to Aya with such an readable expression

Risa : Why..

Aya : You tell me.All Ishikawas are here,Emi is here but she is hiding in the kitchen.You are here,everyone is here! (clapping)

Risa : (sigh)

Aoi : Sounds great to me.

Risa : Where is Emi?

Aoi : Kitchen (pointing to the kitchen)

Risa : Lets hope today will be just fine (sigh)