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djtenkuWord Count: 8476
Summary: Invitation. Extravagance. Together.
March 29, 2011
It was a good day. The phone did not ring incessantly from distant relatives or the telemarketers for about a week straight. There was nothing happening in the city, or the world that caused any type of concern – or it was concealed well.
The loft was quiet besides the low volume on the television set and the stereo playing soft music. A breeze caught the curtains and they fluttered, bringing in the sea air. It was peaceful – and soothing to the soul. Nothing could possibly ruin it.
A door slam jarred Kento from a pleasant daydream, and he peeked over the couch and muttered incoherently. “I'm trying to sleep!” he exclaimed before burying his head into a pillow. The edge of the couch gave way as Shin sat down on what little space was left with a handful of mail. “Sorry,” came the muffled reply. “The wind caught it.”
“So, what do you have?”
“Well, I...” Shin's voice faded off for a few moments, and Kento guessed there wasn't anything important, until Shin squealed. There was a look of panic on her face when he decided to sit up completely. “What's wrong?”
She handed him a small, red envelope to him and buried her head into her hands. Kento inspected it with a raised eyebrow – the back of it was sealed with a gold coat of arms sticker; of what he couldn't make it out or care about. Diligently, he opened the envelope and read the small card. “It's a party invitation,” he said, looking up at her questionably. “What's the big-”
“Keep reading,” she urged.
“'You are cordially invited to the annual Spring Ball, located in the Governor's mansion'...the mansion? Anyway, 'Come join us to mingle with the city's national, and international elite, make new friends...'” Kento skimmed the rest until he found something interesting. “'The dress will be evening black tie, but white tie is strongly preferred. Starts on the evening of the thirieth.' That's tomorrow.”
“That's tomorrow,” Shin echoed, quietly.
“Ah, so what, we get to dress up, 'mingle'. Maybe have a few bottles of fine wine or champange – what's so bad about that?” Kento noticed an unfamiliar look when she finally pulled her hands away.
“It's been years since I saw some people,” she started. “I really don't want to go to this.”
“I'm pretty sure they won't remember you,” Kento remarked, eliciting a frown from Shin, “you'd be surprise how a person changes over the years. Lighten up!” He laid back down, this time placing his head on her lap, and looked back at her with his good eye. “What will it take for you to be happy about going?”
Shin thought for a moment. “You not picking a fight,” she replied. There was a second of confusion on his scarred face, but he nodded his approval nonetheless.
“Is that all?”
Shin brushed her fingers against stubble and cringed slightly. “You could use a shave.” To emphasize another point, she tried running her hand through his wild slate-grey hair.
“I guess I can comb it or something.” he ventured.
“Actually...”
Kento's eye widened at the realization and immediately sat up and moved away from her. “No,” he said firmly.
“You're going to have to do something,” Shin pressed, “and you're not using any of my brushes.”
“But!”
“'But' nothing.” Shin rose and made for the door, not bothering to glance over her shoulder.
“What are you, on the rag? What's going on with you?” Kento covered his mouth as an afterthought, but it was already too late. He could see Shin seethe visibly. It had been a while, if not a couple of years since he last saw her do that. That point forward, for the rest of the day, he was wise not to speak first.
“Whatever,” Shin said tersely, “ I'm going to Michael's to see if I can find a dress or something. I'll be back later.”
Kento watched as she left without another word, and cringed as she slammed the door behind her. He sighed as he reclined back on the couch; he couldn't help but to think there was something different about her. Shin's mood were swinging too much for his liking at all, strange cravings (popcorn and chocolate together)... her skin was glowing a lot more despite the recent cloudy weather. Could she be...?
“Nah,” he dismissed, burying his head into the pillow once again.
* * *
Shin forgot how long the trail to the house. Then again, considerable time passed since then. Ancient willow trees lined the path, and they were as tall as ever. The small lake glimmered through the dense branches, and she thought dimly of catching fish – at least attempting it.
She passed by the old swingset, still the same plank of wood help up by two sturdy pieces of rope, with the same knots and repairs, and she sighed deeply. Memories began to flow back; with a simple shake of her head, she dispelled the bittersweet thoughts. That is, until she came upon the house itself.
The house was a two-story plantation-styled home, complete with the white pillars, and even the double porch. The ceiling fans that were visible made their slow circulation, if at all. On the lower porch were the rocking chairs.
It was the same as she left it, until she noticed another car in the driveway, and someone occupying one of the chairs. The person waved as Shin approached with caution. “Is that you, Shina?”
Shin stopped as she heard the voice from her past. “Auntie?” Her vision confirmed her guess – a tall, shapely sandy blonde woman in a solid white sundress. “Auntie
Noelle!”
Noelle opened her arms and embraced Shin tightly before taking her in. “You’ve grown so much!Goodness, what did you eat?” she exclaimed. “Last time I saw you, you were so little!”
“I’m twenty-five now,” Shin said timidly. She couldn’t tell if Noelle aged at all. “What are you doing here anyway?”
“Oh,” Noelle started, “just trying to reconcile with the ol’ battle horse. I sort of dropped something on him almost a year ago. He’s a bit upset,” she finished with a shrug. “What about you?”
“I have to go to the stupid ball tomorrow night,” Shin pouted, “I really don’t want to go, but you know how it is – don’t go and they talk behind your back.”
“Goodness, you’re so bitter,” Noelle pointed out, “but I suppose that’s what happens when you live with Michael.”
“I moved out seven years ago,” Shin corrected.
“Do tell!” Noelle exclaimed, brown eyes glinting wiwth curiousity. “But, hold that thought, I have plenty of dresses for you to try on.” Noelle opened the door, letting out the cool air. Immediately, Shin saw the familiar double staircase that lead up to the bedrooms. Past that was the living room, where Michael sat on the floor, newspaper spread out in front of him. He glanced up with a raised eyebrow when he spotted Shin beside Noelle.
“Ah, a pleasant surprise,” he said.
Shin sensed the sarcasm. “I’m just here to get a dress,” she replied.
“Have fun,” he muttered, before returning to the newspaper.
“Such love,” Noelle said as they ascended the stairs.
Shin forgot how long the hallway lined with various family photos to her room was, but within a few steps, she was right at her door. “I’ll get the dresses,” Noelle said with enthusiasm, continuing further down. Shin placed a hand on the knob before swinging the door wide open. To her surprise, her room was still messy – clothes were gathered in the corner next to her made up bed, but her closet and dressers were wide open. Above all that, she noticed how pink her room was.
As she moved in, she saw a lone picture on one of the dressers, still standing. Before she could get at it, Noelle entered, carrying about ten dresses in her arms. “Was I interrupting something?” the pile asked.
Shin turned away quickly. “Not really,” she replied, grabbing some of the load and placing them on the bed. Her aunt raised a curious eyebrow as Shin started to disrobe, revealing her slender body, and reached out to touch one of the faint scars. “Where did you get those?”
“Oh,” Shin sighed, “missions.”
It didn’t take the words to sink in at all, and she sighed in frustration. “Don’t tell me,” she said as Shin looked thoroughly apologetic. “For God’s sake, why did you join?”
“To be quite honest, I don’t know,” Shin replied quietly, gaze elsewhere. “I still ask that question myself. I believe I did it out of spite.” She picked up a canary yellow dress and inspected it before trying it on. “Or maybe it was self-worth, or to prove what I can do. It was certainly a challenge I wasn’t sure I could take on by myself.”
Noelle shook her head as Shin zipped the dress up. “Too frilly. Do you think it was worth it?”
Shin glanced at the picture for a moment, and before she knew it, her aunt crossed over to it and inspected it. “Who’s the chubby kid hugging on you?” Noelle noticed
Shin’s face began to turn pink, and smiled. “Your friend?”
“Ah, that’s Kento, my boyfriend,” Shin answered timidly, “that’s when we were younger.”
Noelle couldn’t hide her astonishment. “You’re still together? How long?”
“A little over 10 years.” Shin had already went through another dress colored black and white. The haltertop was illfitting and the dress itself was dragging.
“I bet he’s handsome now,” Noelle cooed, returning the picture to the stand. Shin couldn’t help but to smile, and her blush deepened.
“Yeah,” she replied in a daze.
A catlike grin formed on Noelle’s lips. “Is he good?”
“I can’t complain at all.” Shin suddenly snapped from her daydream and looked up in horror. “That’s not what I meant!” she exclaimed, burying her head in her hands.
“It’s okay,” Noelle laughed. “I’ll just treat it both ways – no harm done. How does Michael take to him?”
“Oh, it was really bad the first couple of years,” Shin began, discarding a pink cocktail dress that was too short for her liking. “Michael put me in a all girls’ school when we started dating, and a whole bunch of nonsense after that. He even tried to set me up with some wealthy businessman’s son!”
Noelle motioned with her hands. “But?”
“Of course I turned him down,” Shin said, emphasizing with a chopping motion into her hand. “Once that happened, things just got worse. I eventually got fed up with it and just left.”
“Just like that?”
“Just like that.”
“And then?”
“By that time, things with Kento were getting serious, and we lived together, right above his aunt’s restaurant for a while. Sure, it wasn’t the most romantic thing in the whole world but…we made it through, somehow.” Shin tried on a strapless white dress; the ruffled blue part of it boardered the bottom of the dress, up the slit, and zigzaged twice until it stopped at her bust. It was a bit loose in the back, but the rest fitted perfectly. “How’s this?”
“Stunning,” Noelle complimented. “I’ll just have to mend that little area with some clear pins. You know, Shina, I hope you’ll marry him someday. I can tell you really love him, and he loves you equally, if not a little more. Turning down a businessman’s son, ha!”
“And to think, it all started with letters,” Shin said with a little smile. “Crazy, isn’t it?”
“Tell you what; come back tomorrow, and I’ll fix you up all princess-like. He’s coming to the ball?” Shina nodded and Noelle clapped. “Oh, this will be like going to your first prom! Just think of this as a do-over. How does that sound?” She was taken back when Shin hugged her tightly.
“That’d be great. I’m so glad you’re here, Aunt Noelle.”
* * *
It was sunset by the time Shin returned to the loft. Kento was still lounging on the couch, clearly awake. “How’d it go?” he asked with caution, not sure what to expect next. Shin sat down next to him with exhausted look on her face.
“I’ll be going back tomorrow,” she said. “My aunt’s in town. Could you pick me up from there?”
“Ah, sure,” he brightened. She was in a good mood; and he wondered what happened. “I guess it won’t take me long. I already got my stuff. I just need to…cut my hair.”
Shin reached over and ran her fingers through his hair. “Don’t,” she said quietly. “Look, I’m sorry I snapped earlier. This whole thing just came out of nowhere.”
Clearly, he didn’t say. “What?” he asked when Shin threw him a strange look.
“You just said ‘clearly,’” she said, withdrawing suddenly. “You’re thinking too much!”
“Sorry? Look, Shin, don’t let this whole thing get to you. Just relax, and everything will be fine.”
Shin stared at him for a few moments. I hope so, I don’t want to run into that bastard again. “Alright,” she said finally, getting up. “I won’t. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m gonna go get some popcorn and chocolate.”
“But it’s March,” he stated.
“I just developed a craving for it,”Shin said with a dismissing hand.
That was the exact thing his younger sister craved a few years back – which was odd because she never liked both of them - and the next thing he knew, he was a uncle. “Are you feeling alright?”
“I’m feeling a bit sick in my stomach, but nothing too serious,” Shin answered, oblivious to his thoughts. “Maybe I’ve eaten something bad.”
Kento covered his mouth at the realization. This was about the second week Shin was feeling under the weather under circumstances he couldn’t remember. Then, it really dawned on him. Holy shit, she’s pregnant.
* * *
The next night…
The loft was remarkably quiet without Shin, and he wondered vaguely what she was going to wear as he adjusted – it had been a while since she was willing to wear a dress, let alone anything that wasn’t jeans or shorts unless it was a special occasion. Come to think of it, she was wearing them more often; he couldn’t complain at all though.
Kento couldn’t help but to wonder how he was going to propose to Shin. Better yet, when? He held it off for at least three years running due to minor inconveniences; and he certainly had a good feeling she was expecting. Besides, he was looking forward to being a father. To top it all off, nothing strange had happened in the past six months…
He looked at the small engagement ring in the white velvet box for a final time before putting it away in the inside of his jacket before buttoning it up and straightening out his black tie. If anyone didn’t know better, they could’ve swore he was a clean-cut gangster; and Kento couldn’t decide if that would be a insult or a compliment. In any case, he slicked back his hair and settled the white and black fedora on his head, tipping it in a slight angle to the right.
Satisfied, he headed for the door, but not before plucking a small envelope from the table and a white rose from the vase.
* * *
“Stay still,” Noelle said firmly as she tried putting the finishing touches of makeup on Shin’s face. “You don’t want this to smudge.”
“I can’t help it,” Shin whined. “I bet everything will go wrong tonight; I have a great feeling about that.”
“Oh, be quiet. Where you nervous the first time?”
“Not really,” Shin answered with a slight thought. “That’s because I went stag. Oh, I really wonder what Ken’s wearing. I hope it isn’t… strange.”
Noelle sighed. “The way you talk about him, I really doubt it,” she remarked, “he’s going to look sharp. I think I put too much blush on, or is that you?”
“Oh, that’s me, sorry.” Shin stood up and fixed a stray strand and looked up at Noelle with a straight face. “Hey Auntie, how do you know you’re pregnant?”
For a brief moment, Noelle couldn’t hide her shock until she turned it into a smile. “Why do you ask?”
“Well, Kento and I were talking about something last night…and he asked me if I was alright when I had some chocolate and popcorn together. I don’t think it’s that strange, do you?”
“I’m not sure,” Noelle started, “have you experienced any mood swings or tenderness? Or even morning sickness?”
Shin nodded slowly. “I don’t know about the ‘swings, but everything else is right on. I’m not late though, at least, I don’t think so. It’s only been happening for about a week.” She was taken aback when Noelle went through her own purse and produced a small cotton swab and a half-filled container of clear liquid. “What’s that?”
“A test,” she answered. Shin raised a quizzical arched eyebrow. “It’ll only tak about thirty seconds. Open your mouth. It detects hormone levels associated with pregnancy. Pink if you’re not; blue you got a bun in the oven. See?” Noelle held up the tiny container – at first the liquid was pink, until twenty seconds later, it turned into a dark blue.
Shin covered her mouth. “Oh my god, I’m pregnant!” she half-yelled. “What am I going to say?”
“Congratulations,” Noelle said, patting her gently on the back. “I wouldn’t worry about it.”
It was several moments before Shin calmed down, ration taking over. “You’re right.” Then, the doorbell rang. “Oh! I’m not ready yet! Is my hair straight? Do my nails look good?”
Noelle looked on with amusement as her niece fretted, pacing back and forth barefooted. “I’ll go downstairs, how’s that?”
“Yes, yes,” Shin answered quickly as Noelle left her room, putting a stray strand of hair behind her ear.
Kento fiddled with his black tie, deciding whether or not if it was too tight. Come to think of it, the suit’s jacket was a little snug and he tried adjusting the cuffs again, only for one of the links to fall out and disappear somewhere on the porch; he shrugged and took off the other link and slid it into his pocket. It was really no use wearing them now.
The door swung open to his surprise, revealing a woman he’d never seen before, until the gears started to turn. “Ah, Mrs. Noelle?” Kento guessed.
“No need to be so formal,” Noelle said, beckoning him in. “That makes me feel old. My, Shina was right, you are handsome.”
“I do what I can,” he said modestly, taking off the fedora gingerly. Noelle tried masking her surprise, but if failed. “Oh, this? Ah, it’s just from some mishaps. It’s really nothing.”
Without knowing it, Noelle said, “Those were one hell of some mishaps. Sorry, that just slipped.”
“Auntie!” Shin’s voice rang, twinged with a whine.
“Oh, for the love of…I have no idea why’s she is so nervous. I’ll be right back,” Noelle said with a sigh. As Noelle went up the stairs, Michael came into the foyer, sizing him up.
“This is probably the cleanest I’ve seen you yet,” he said, shaking his hand.
“Thanks. I wasn’t aware that…” Kento gestured upstairs with a flick of his head.
“A long time ago, I was,” Michael answered softly. It was the first time Kento ever heard that kind of tone. “Let me tell you something,” he began, looking intensely into his eye. “There are some people you may have to watch for…I still have old enemies there – well, not enemies but I’ve stepped on some toes. Watch Shina very carefully tonight.”
Kento wondered what Michael did in the past. Perhaps, he would have to ask later. “I will, trust me,” he answered equally.
“Alright,” Noelle called, “she’s ready!” There was a word of protest from Shin as she was shoved into view. She was practically a different person to Kento – her hair was curly and layered, and one part swept over her left eye. She wore bright red lipstick, and a light layer of makeup. The dress itself was snug, showing off her figure – Kento smiled a little – and so were the forearm length white gloves. Lastly, her shoes were clear, and as she reached the final step, he guessed that they had to be three inches high.
“Wow,” he drawled. “You look incredibly sexy!”
Shin giggled, turning into a light shade of pink. “I should dress like this often, huh?” she asked, adjusting the dress. “Hopefully, this won’t try to fall off or something…”
“Oh, we wouldn’t want that,” Kento said with a grin. It disappeared as he realized where he was.”Ah, I almost forgot…”
“Aw, look at that, Michael,” Noelle said as Kento tried to place the white rose behind Shin’s ear. She had already taken a picture and shown Michael. “Reminds you of the old days, huh?” she asked softly. “Think this should go on the mantle?”
“Do what you want,” he said quickly. Michael cleared his throat and said a little
louder, “Aren’t you a little late?”
“There’s nothing wrong with being fashionably late, is there?” Kento said as he jiggled a pair of keys. “Besides, who’s gonna see the ride I got?” He pressed a button, and there was a sudden growling noise outside, and he grinned.
Shin opened the door and looked out, squinting. “What car? I don’t see…” Shin’s eyes widen when the headlights flared up, partially revealing a sleek car. She ran – gathering up some of the dress – and inspected it. The car was low to the ground, and its color was a liquid black, so smooth that she was afraid if she even brushed it wrong, there would’ve been a smudge. “A Sigma!” she shouted as she saw the small emblem on the side. “It’s not even out for another eight months!”
“I have connections,” Kento said slyly as he walked out the door. “Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of her!”
“You two be good!” Noelle called after them as they both entered the car. As the car left, Noelle sighed and turned to Michael. “Well, there goes our little girl we could’ve had. She would’ve been her age.”
Michael said nothing and turned away, returning to the living room.
* * *
Shin fidgeted in her seat, more surprised that it was plush and conformed to her movements. “This is nice,” she said, watching the cushion spring back.
“Connections, huh? What exactly did you have to bribe Rowan, hm?”
“I didn’t bribe him,” Kento said dryly, “he insisted. Well…” He paused in thought.
“Come to think of it, I actually did, but I just told him that I’d return the favor, no matter what it is.”
“Oh, really?” Shin rested her elbow on the armrest and leaned over with a curious eyebrow raised.
“Joke’s on you, you’re on the right side,” he said with a chuckle. Although, he really wished she was on the left side. “Anyway, I’m pretty sure it’s going to be something small.”
“That’s it?” Shin leaned back, mildly disappointed. “Well, there’s no telling what that – HIT THE BRAKES!” The car lurched forward suddenly, engine growling in protest as Kento downshifted in time.
“What the hell was that for?” he asked, turning to her.
“You didn’t see that truck?” Shin half-yelled, gesturing at the windshield. Kento followed her finger and he frowned.
“The one that’s way down there?”
“Your depth perception sucks! It was right in front of us the whole time, you were going to hit it!”
“Well, excuse me for being half-blind, Shina; you could’ve said something!”
Shin raised an eyebrow. “Oh, what was I going to say ‘Gee Kento, what’s for dinner? By the way, there’s a truck in front of us, ya might want to stop’?”
What the hell, that didn’t make sense! Kento didn’t say. Shin heard it anyway, somehow. “That’s not the point!” she exclaimed, turning away. Then, she asked softly, “What are we gonna eat anyway?”
Kento couldn’t believe the mood swings she was going through. But, he might as well roll with it. “Don’t they have food at the Ball?”
Shin looked at her hands idly. “Just some small stuff; salad, those little things in the bread, and cheese.”
“Cheese?” he echoed in minor disgust.
“Oh yeah,” Shin said. “Every kind, even the moldy kinds that smells like dirty socks.”
I bet she’s staring at me with that look, Kento thought, rolling his eye. “And will you quit…I don’t know using telepathy over there,” he heard Shin say.
“Well sorry for thinking in my own mind,” he said sarcastically. “And speaking of, who was that ‘bastard’ you didn’t want to see anyway?”
Shin faltered, trying to find the right words. How did he pick that one up? “Name’s Soma von Straha,” she said slowly. “You’ll know when you see him. Promise not-”
“I know, I know,” Kento said in defeat, avoiding the speech completely. “I’m pretty sure he’s nothing I couldn’t handle.”
Shin didn’t say anything, until, “I still don’t think I can go through with this,” she said, bunching up some of her dress. “It’s been years.”
“Was he that bad?” Kento stole a quick glance at Shin. “Look, don’t worry about him. Just relax, and enjoy yourself. Nothing will happen, and I won’t let anything happen to you; trust me on this.”
Shin didn’t say anything, but there was something about him that she couldn’t quite place her finger on at the moment. Whatever it was, it made her feel better.
* * *
Soma von Straha was bored. Really bored. All these gatherings were just an excuse for the old people – old, rich people- to talk of their successes and act all chummy towards one another, to flaunt their riches at each other, and to tell such boring stories about their lives. There are supposed to have young women about – just waiting for someone like him to snatch them up and show them the meaning of a good time. Especially with devilishly handsome good looks! There should’ve been a flock by now. It couldn’t be that hard to find me is it? von Straha thought with a hand running through his blonde hair.
He knocked back the rest of his drink and sighed. What’s the use of me coming here when I don’t get anything in return? “Whatever,” he said aloud after he ordered another drink. Something caught his eye as he looked up; a goregous redhead, and she appeared alone even. And, he knew her. Maybe, this night will be interesting after all.
-
“C’mon, I think this is our table,” Kento said, going in one direction. “Was it fifteen or seventy-nine?”
Shin was going the other direction, and she rolled her eyes. “It was fourty-three.”
“Clearly, the people of table sixty-nine are enjoying themselves,” he ventured, a mischevious smiling forming on his lips. Shin looked at him with confusion until she mouthed the number. He laughed when she hit his arm playfully. “Well, they are! It was just an observation!”
“You’re terrible,” she told him, making him laugh even more. “Didn’t they say that it had our names on the table somewhere?”
“I haven’t a clue. This set-up’s all messed up…ah! Found it!” The round, clothed table was somewhat occupied. Three women to be exact all looking identical wearing cream colored dresses – and even similar hairstyles, all pinned up and leaving some loose, to Shin’s chagrin and absolute relief. There a seat in between the women, and Shin dimly wondered who it belonged to. “Good evenin’ ladies,” Kento said cheerfully as he pulled out Shin’s chair. All them nodded their greeting, but otherwise didn’t pay attention to him.
“Tough crowd,” he muttered as he sat to the right of Shin.
“Oh, you don’t know the half of it,” Shin replied equally, taking off her gloves and placing them elsewhere. “I feel like I need a drink already.”
“Just wait at least ten minutes. Remember what I said?” Just who the hell is making Shin nervous? Kento wondered.
“Uh-huh.” Shin looked up sharply as she heard her named called very nasally and clearly over the soft murmuring of the crowd and promptly turned around. “Oh no…” She buried her head into her hands. “You’ve got to be kidding me!”
Kento looked around, spotting what she had just seen. “Oh, that’s him,” he said aloud. The waving man was of fair complexion, blonde hair pinned back in a messy ponytail, and wore an all-black suit with a white rose pinned to his jacket. The man was also handsome – at least compared to the others in the ball, but then again, most of the people here were aging. A pretty boy, he thought sourly, rolling his eye.
“Oh, it’s so good to see you again, dear Shina,” Soma von Straha said with a smile. His teeth seemed to glint. “How long has it been?”
“I have no idea,” Shin answered, feigning delight. She was taken aback when Soma took her hand and kissed the back of it.
“Far too long,” he remarked. He looked up as he heard someone clear their throat, and saw someone sitting beside her. Smartly, von Straha moved to fill in the missing seat. “And who might this be, your escort?”
“My fiance,” Shin said boldly. Kento coughed at the statement.
“Well, congrats to you…”
“Kento.”
Soma regarded him with a swift look. “Yes, well, it’s bad manners to wear a hat at the table,” he stated, gesturing about. It also elicited giggles from the women.
“It is?” After making a meaningful glance to Shin, he sighed. “Well, if you insist.” Kento removed the fedora gingerly, ignoring the gasps of horrors and the comments that followed. He smiled. “I didn’t want to scare them; I forgot my eyepatch.”
Oh, and a brute at that, Soma thought. This was an interesting turn of events.
“How did you get those, praytell?”
Kento smoothed out his hair. “I’m kinda accident-prone,” he said with a small laugh. Shin shook her head in disbelief. “That and I got caught on the bridge when it was attacked a few years back. Didn’t stand a chance, everyone said. I’m just lucky, I suppose.” It was the general story he told whenever he was asked about the scars even though they were a mixtured of old and new.
“Well, I am glad that you have survived such a terrible ordeal, and look fairly well, I might add,” Soma said with little interest in his voice. And probably since then, they have been real close. No matter, I’ll find a way. “They do have…how can I put this delicately, reconstructive surgery. You know, take some of the edge off of or even all of it?”
Kento raised an eyebrow. “I’m fine the way I look; I’m not insecure. I know I’m a little rough lookin’,” he said with a shrug as he sat back in the chair. “Does it bother you?”
Soma straightened. He certainly is bold. “It would make you more…presentable. I bet small children cry at the sight of you,” he finished with a little smile.
Shin’s sapphire eyes widen and dared a look at Kento. He was wearing a small smile himself. It was that smile. “Oh god,” she managed.
“Actually, they think it’s cool,” he said evenly, “they don’t mind at all. You, on the other hand, look unnatural. What is that, plastic?”
Soma von Straha balked. “It’s called good genes,” he recovered, “clearly you don’t have any!”
“And I suppose you have a tampon up your ass,” Kento said, voice rising ever so slightly. “What’s wrong, is it time of the month for you, pretty boy?”
“Is that a small rodent in your mouth, caveman?”
Shin banged her fist on the table, surprising the women. “That’s enough!” She glared at Kento, and then Soma.
Soma laughed with mirth. “I’m just testing the waters,” he said, raising his hands in mock defeat. “Just making sure that your…fiance was good enough for you. I didn’t want you to lower your standards, Shina.”
Kento held out his hand and placed it front of her stomach, keeping her from getting out of her seat, even leaping out of it to hurt the man. Shin shifted instead, and glanced somewhere else. “Well, if you’ll excuse me,” she said rising anyway, “I am going to get a drink.” Before she left, she whispered in his ear and he nodded.
“Fresh air,” he stated gruffily. As both left the table, Soma snorted. The plan wasn’t going to motion at all.
* * *
“What the hell is up with that guy?” Kento asked as Shin downed a drink. She slammed the glass down, and her face took on a rosy tint. It was her second.
“A bug crawled up his ass and pinched off his balls, that’s what! Sorry,” she said as an afterthought to those within earshot. “He’s still *****in’ because I didn’t want him.”
“An ex?” he asked unable to had his surprise. Shin scoffed.
“I never went out with him, took his bribes, or declare him as my boyfriend,” she began, “in fact, I was set up with him by Michael. Some businessman of some stupid corporation – I can’t remember.”
“When did this happen?”
“About a couple of months before... summer. Right before you moved here permanently and when Michael forbade me to see anyone else,” she said. Now Kento knew why he didn’t get those letters all those years ago. “He’s such a sleezeball and materialistic, that bastard. Thinks he can get any woman he wants. Ha! I’m not weak.”
“He certainly has a mouth,” Kento added, cracking what knuckles he had left out of habit. “If I wasn’t in such a good mood, he’d be on the floor.”
“I can’t believe he kissed my hand!” Shin swabbed a little of the drink and ran her finger over the hand Soma kissed. “You see those floozies at the table? They can’t be more ‘beautiful’ than him. Arrogant bastard!” She inhaled deeply several times while Kento gently patted her back.
“I think I need to get some fresh air for a bit. Balcony up there.”
Kento looked after her as she walked off – a little clumsily on her heels. He’d never seen her like this. Shin never told him of that Soma guy, and he began to wonder what happened. He glanced over the table. The bastard was gone. Before he tried to pursue though, there was a commotion nearby . Curiosity got the best of him.
-
Shin knew it was a bad idea to accept the invite. What cruel twist of fate that she was seated at the same table with Soma. She wondered what stupid bastard came up with that brilliant idea, as she rested her elbow against the rail and looking out.
The view was appreciative; the governor’s mansion sat on the hill far away from the city, and you could see the small twinkles of the lights. The Bay wasn’t that far either, as she heard the distant shoreline. “What do you want?” she asked, not bothering to turn around.
“I’m not trying to do anything,” said Soma. “Just want to make some amends.”
“What amends?” she asked with a bitter laugh. “There’s nothing to begin with.”
Time to turn on the charm. “I admit you seem resentful at the sight of me. I understand that completely; I’d be too.”
Shin rolled her eyes. Here comes the excuses.
“I was young and stupid,” he began wistfully, “and full of hormones quite frankly. I didn’t- ” Soma didn’t expect her to turn on her thin heels so quickly and to march right over to him. She basically towered over him.
“Bull. ****.” Her voice was dangerously low and her gaze was fierce, so much that it scared the hell out of him. “I’ll never forgive you. Can’t you get that through your thick skull or is it too empty to let anything in?”
“You can’t?” he asked sweetly. “Quit living in the past so much. Still mourning the loss of your brother?” Shin’s eyes narrowed. “Oh, I know that hurts, forgive me. But I can’t believe you left me for…that. Picked him off the street and said ‘he’ll do’? All I ask, what does he have that I don’t?”
Shin laughed derisively. “Everything. Now, if you should be so kind as to get out of my way- ” Soma grabbed her arm and pulled her.
“You haven’t told him the whole story, have you?” He leaned in and whispered in her ear, hot breath on her bare shoulder. “I’ll tell him myself; I’ll spin it. Soon he’ll be so tarnished that he can’t look at you, and you’ll be left all…alone. If I can’t have you, no one will.”
Shin pushed away from him. “Don’t touch me again,” she warned, walking off.
Soma smiled coldly. The plan was back into motion.
-
“What’s going on?” Kento managed to get through the crowd that surrounded the table.
“Million dollar Blackjack,” someone answered, agitated. He watched intensely as the person sitting at the green rectangluar table flipped over a card, revealing a king. The other two cards were a six and a four. Twenty. The vested dealer looked at the man with the slightest impatience. “I’ll stand,” the man said in a gravelly voice, sitting back.
The dealer flipped over her own card, revealing an ace. The other card was a jack. “Blackjack. The house wins.” The crowd voiced their dissent and slowly dissipated.
“Damn, my luck ran out,” the man said, smoothing his dirty blond hair. “Oh well. Hey kid, c’mere. I’ve got something for ya.” Cautiously, Kento did so. The man took his wrist and put a crumpled twenty dollar bill in his hand before closing it. He smiled warily when Kento looked up at him, confused. “Luck has been on your side. Do what you can with that; that’s the minimum on this table. I’ll guarentee you’ll win big.”
The man patted his shoulder before walking off, melting into the crowd. Kento shrugged. It couldn’t hurt to try.
Even though no crowd formed around him, he was fairly comfortable of how fast he racked up his winnings. The old man wasn’t lying at all; twenty dollars turned into five thousand. “That’s Blackjack.” Kento sat back in his seat. Eight thousand now and even a roomkey he had won off someone earlier. He had to stop. “That’s it,” he exclaimed, and took his winnings.
Satisfied, he left and looked around for the red-haired woman – for one reason or another everyone else had blonde or black hair, and spotted her back at the table, head down. When he got there, Shin looked up at him. “What’s wrong, babe?” he asked, wrapping a arm around her shoulder. “What happened?”
“I want to go home.” Her voice was quiet and on the verge of cracking. “I don’t want to be here anymore.”
“Shina-” Kento glared at Soma as he reappeared, smiling smugly.
“Did I interrupt something?” he asked, nasal voice full of innocence.
“She’s just a little sick,” Kento answered, turning back to Shin. “C’mon, you can tell me…”
“Perhaps,” Soma von Straha started loudly, “that she is ashamed to tell you that she is a…how do you say, a slut?” He smiled warmly when everyone within earshot heard it, and at Kento’s puzzled reaction. “Yes,” he purred, “even after all these years she came back to me even though she has prior engagements?”
“That’s enough, Soma!” Shin exclaimed, breaking away from Kento and getting out of her chair.
“Oh, that’s good Shina, but didn’t you say that- ” The force of the sudden blow to his face made him topple his seat. Soma clutched his jaw; he felt welts on his face where Shin had slapped him and seethed. Quickly, he got up, shouting, “How dare you, you *****!”
Shin stood firm as he raised his arm up to backhand her, but stopped cold as Kento stood up behind her, both eyes open. He gently grabbed her waist and directed her elsewhere. “Shina, go outside,” he said calmly. “This might take a few minutes.”
“Are you going to fight me?” Soma mocked, taking off his jacket and rolling up his sleeves. In truth, he was scared witless.
Kento chuckled. “Oh no; I’m not; I’m afraid that I’ll give you a concussion. But, if you lay a single hand on her, or even look at her wrong, I won’t hesitate to take action.”
“Oh ho ho, a man of honor,” Soma continued, “is she that much to you? What, a trophy because you can’t find anyone else?” He found himself practically trapped when Kento approached him, and Soma sat down – almost missing the chair completely. His gaze was piercing, but what made it so sinister, besides his blind eye, there was no trace of anger.
“She is worth my entire life,” he whispered, before backing off, retrieving his fedora. “If I ever catch you with Shin alone…you won’t be able to talk.”
Soma von Straha sat there, clearly offended. “Is that a threat?” he exclaimed after him.
“It’s a promise.” With that, Kento left, ignoring the comments and the obvious stares. He heard thunder as he entered the massive foyer. Shin was already standing at the open door, back turned to him.
Shin gazed up as she felt an jacket being draped over her shoulders. Kento was smiling warmly at her. “It looks like it’s going to rain. Don’t want to ruin your dress.”
“I’m sorry,” she managed. “I-”
“I know you didn’t, but we'll talk about it later,” he said equally. “Anyway, let’s get out of here. I have a little surprise for you, and I think you’ll like it.”
The surprise came in the form of a highrise luxury hotel , a partially lit silhouette in the darkness and very well hidden amongst the other buildings. There was no sign of an entrance; and after a few trips around the block, they found it in the form of a small building on the side. A small parking garage was across the street. The torrential rain was coming down heavier, making it impossible to see. Smartly, Shin had her heels in one hand and held Kento’s hand with the other; Kento made sure that his jacket was a make-shift umbrella.
It didn’t provided much cover as they ran through the rain, splashing through the ankle-deep water, laughing. Shin laughed even more as they entered the unoccupied building, handing Kento his jacket. Not that he needed it; the wind had caught the rain and he received the brunt of it. “You look like a wet dog,” Shin told him as he slicked back his hair.
“Yeah? Well, I can see your bra,” he retorted, pointing to Shin’s dress. She looked down and he was right – the black half-bra was showing through. “Maybe I should help you get that off?”
The elevator’s bell went off at the wrong time and he cursed as he was about to make his move. But, Shin gave him an inviting glance over her shoulder and took his hand. “After we get something to eat,” she whispered in his ear.
* * *
The double doors opened into an elaborate foyer, with its columns and floor being made of imported white marble, and small statues as well. A little past that was the vast living room, and a couple of tables – for conferences and meetings and even the dining room. The kitchen was to the left of the dining room, filled with stainless steel appliances and its cabinents. On the granite counter sat the menu and the phone.
Most of the items on the menu was some foods were something they’ve never heard of, even the desserts. When hope was wearing thin, they found the small print of the words ‘anything on per request’, and ended up ordering chili dogs, with cheese and a decent helping of fries and cheesecake. And by the time the food arrived, both were already stripped down to underwear – Kento with solid black boxer shorts, and Shin in her black half-bra and v-string. However, Shin also wore the complimentary silk robe.
Dinner itself was oddly quiet for the both of them, just the sound of the utensils clinking against the plate and the television on background. Kento looked up at Shin from across the table; her plate was half full and she was moving some of the contents around with her fork, as if bored. She looked distant. “You know,” he started, getting her attention, “we never did dance.”
“That’s because we left about an hour before it even happened,” Shin answered in a matter-of-factly tone, not looking up. “Besides, I’m glad we got out of there when we did – I wouldn’t want to be stuck with an old pervert.”
Kento nodded and got up, finding the stereo remote along the way and fiddled with it, until he found a suitable song. “Well, you’ve never danced with me.” Casually, he took her hand gently and she gazed at him, curious at his words as he drew her in.
“I...suppose I haven’t,” Shin said as she rested her arms on his shoulders. “I’ll have to count it as my first dance.”
“Why’s that?”
“It’s just that…” She fell silent for a moment. “Before you came here, I was always in a prearranged date. Don’t ask how and why, things fell in place like that. Even the school functions. Of course, I was never happy with it because one; I didn’t know this person and two; I didn’t like them. Lo, and behold, they tried to insult me behind my back. They acted all the same.
“The fact that we met and kept contact despite circumstances…well, that’s really admirable. As with the whole respect thing too. No one really treated me like that before; if it weren’t for you, I’d probably be someone’s trophy wife and extremely unhappy all the time. That’s one of the main reasons why I ran away from home; I wanted to escape from the trap. You know the rest.” Shin sighed and gazed up at him. “I often wonder…what if we never met?”
Even though it was an hypothetical question, it still jarred Kento. “For one,” he said, “I would’ve been dead a long time ago. I fought a lot, and each one just put me closer to death, even though I made quite bit of earnings on the side. Ma was concerned, and that’s why she asked my aunt to take me in here so I wouldn’t be so…”
“Suicidal?” Shin finished, though it really wasn’t a question.
“Yeah, but I still did it – I was real stubborn, that is until I nearly got my ass handed to me by some guy. Hell, I don’t remember his name…but I saw that look you had on your face the next day. Sure, my pride was wounded. Had I not seen you then, I probably would’ve went back to rechallenge him and try again, but this time ended up in a ditch somewhere. It just put things into perspective for me. If I hadn’t met you, I would’ve been dead at least thrice over.”
Kento then added, “And, I wouldn’t be able to protect you, or make you happy.” He saw Shin’s eyes misting up and he smiled.
“You’re so…” Shin paused, and swayed slightly. Kento pulled her in closer.
“You had a lot to drink-”
“Five,” she corrected him. “I’m just feeling a bit queasy and tired, is all.” Kento guided her to the wide chaise and she almost sank in the soft upholstery, and disappeared somewhere in the suite, opening doors. Shin rubbed her stomach with thought and looked up at Kento as he reentered the living room with the comforter in one hand and a pillow tucked under his arm with a strange look.
“Not tonight?” he asked plainly as he threw the covers on the chaise and handed her the pillow. Shin pursed her lips.
“I’m late,” she blurted out, and covered her mouth in surprise. Kento raised an eyebrow. “Late for what?” he asked, confused.
“Remember when we played Hi-Lo only for clothes and drinks?”
“Not really,” he said. “I remember getting slightly drunk though.”
“We were both drunk and a great possibility of being naked at the same time.”
“Where are you going with this?” Shin stayed silent, looking at him. It dawned on him within seconds. To be sure, he asked, “So, we had drunk sex?” Shin nodded. “And you’re late. Which means…?”
“I’m pregnant,” Shin said plainly.
“You’re pregnant,” he echoed. Then, he shouted and pointed, “Oh! You’re pregnant! I knew it! Well, I mean…” Kento was at a loss for words. Shin smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in to kiss him. “I’m going to be a dad?” he asked finally. “That’s the best news I’ve ever got in my life.” And now would be a great time to pop the question. Alas, the jacket was somewhere well out of each. Oh well, it would have to wait till the morning.
“Great time for what?” Shin asked sleepily, laying her head on his chest.
He didn’t expect her to pick up on the thought. “Ah, nevermind it’s late,” he replied softly. “Let’s just get some sleep, alright?” To his amusement, Shin was already fast asleep. It didn’t take him long to drift off as well.
-
The morning sunrays caught Shin’s eyes and she flinched herself awake. She had a slight headache, but she guessed hot tea would get rid of it as ususal. Kento was still asleep, snoring softly. It was strange since he was always the first one up in the mornings, even before the sun itself. In any case, she enjoyed the rarity of the moment. She slid out of the covers and into the bathroom after some wandering, and combed through her curl-less hair with her hands. A glint caught her eye as she moved her left hand and investigated it. She gasped at the sight. “Oh my god!” she exclaimed. It was a silver ring of three diamonds on the band. An engagement ring!
She ran back into the living room. “Kento!”
“What?” he croaked, buring his head under the covers. Eventually, he reemerged, sitting up, and stared at her with a sleepy eye as she showed her left hand to him, and Kento smiled. “Oh, that…I’ve been meaning to give you that.”
“How long?” Shin half exclaimed. Tears were flowing from her eyes as she hugged him tightly.
He hugged her equally, holding each other for some time.“Too long.”
