Today is your special day, hope you look back and feel proud of all you've achieved

And look ahead on all that you are aiming for

Happy Birthday!
Wishing you another year of good health, happiness and prosperity

HOLDING ON TO LOVE

Part 4

Months past. Alex was permanently residing in Japan she’s now in her sixth month of pregnancy Kame true to his words was always by her side whenever he has his free time. After her stunt with Chloe she went back to Japan together with her dad and step mom. They demanded to meet the father of her child. They held a family get-together including her grandma and granddad that also came to Tokyo from Osaka just to meet Kame. The atmosphere was tensed at first but it turned out fine in the end. They all made Kame promised not to hurt her. Her father even asked if he intends to marry her, which Kame earnestly answered yes but he has to win Alex heart first.

Kame as well invited her to his family’s home. He introduced her to his family who all warmly welcomed her to the family. She immediately fell in love with Kame’s niece who also seems comfortable playing with her. Everything has been going smoothly privately.

Alex was in her 5-month pregnancy when Kame finally decided to let his agency know. He’s now on his way to Johnny’s office. Actually, his band mates already know of his situation. He had informed them two weeks ago, well, Jin learned earlier than the others. It’s Jin who helped him explain to the others. He let them know that this part of his life he want to keep private for the safety of both the child and the mother.

Johnny Kitagawa’s secretary ushered him to Johnny’s office and gently close the door behind her after announcing his presence.

“Kame-chan, what seems to be the problem? Suddenly asking to meet me?”

“Ano, I have something to discuss with you?”

“Regarding your movie with Jin?”

“Iie, I’m fine with all that. This matter is personal but I feel I have the responsibility to tell you.”

‘So what’s the problem? You want another vacation?”

“No. 4 months from now, I want to ask for paternity leave.”

“What?! You’re going to be a father and 4 months… it means your girl is 5 month pregnant already. And you informed me only now? Did your band mates know about this?”

“Yes. I told them two weeks ago. I’m sorry to inform you just now. We settled things first with her family and mine as well. Rest assured that they wouldn’t go to media about the pregnancy. My girlfriend’s name is Yuna Alexia Andreas; she came from Kanazawa family, technically, one of the top 10 wealthiest families in Japan. Her family wanted to keep silent about this whole thing so as to keep their family’s privacy as well as to protect my career.”

“Are you going to marry her?”

“Yes. But she’s not accepted my proposal yet. I have to wait until she give birth.”

“Do you think I would allow that?”

“I know inside you despite being a hardcore businessman, you have that kindness. I wanted to be acknowledged as the father of the child. I may want to shout it to the whole world but to protect my family I’ll keep silent. They even suggested for us to marry in Greece where her father’s family is located. I also don’t want to put the band at risk. This news will probably bring us down and I don’t want to risk it. Alex is willing to be put in the background for the good of all as long as I acknowledge her child.”

“Okay somehow I understand. Being with you will probably put the mother and child at risk. We all know how harsh some fans can be physically and verbally. So you’re willing to keep your relationship secret and to keep your lovechild from public’s eyes. But what if you’re caught? I know that being one of the most influential families in Japan they won’t take the controversy lightly.”

“We’ll cross the bridge when we get there. Now we’re taking all the precautions we have to take. Her doctor is a their relative who has a private clinic. She’s staying with her mom in Shiodome. I visit her everyday. We don’t meet outside except when she’s in her mom’s shop or when she has to go for her monthly check-up.”

“Okay for now, I won’t meddle. I can’t ask you to break with her because I know you’ll just rebel and it’s not the time for that. Now that you have Gokusen Movie to make and also a new album as well as a new PV to release, spending time with her is impossible. One question only, do you love her?”

“I do”

“Does she love you? I mean not only because you impregnated her?”

“I’m wooing her. The issue about Kyon and me brought us trouble before but now she’s beginning to accept me. We want to take care of the baby first before we take the next step.”

“How long did you know her?”

“We met in Maldives. So technically, we only have known each other 7 months.”

“Kame, I hope you’ll be strong for yourself, for your group and your small family. You know how harsh it could be. Let’s just pray that the fans will also accept you like they did to him.”

“I wish also, sir. Sorry again for the trouble I’m giving you. I’ll work hard for the group and my family, so when the time comes when we have to admit our secret the people will understand us and accept us as well.”

“Okay. I hope I can also meet this girl.”

“Thank you for understanding.”

After his meeting he returned to his band’s resting room where the others are waiting for him.

“How did it go?” Jin was the first to ask

“Better than we predicted. He won’t meddle with us. Maybe because he understand my situation, maybe also because she’s the kin of one of the most influential families here.”

“That good to hear. So are we going to meet her soon.” Koki asked

“What about it Kame we’ve been talking about Alex this, Alex that but we haven’t meet her personally yet.” Tat-chan added

“Well, let me call her and see if we can meet her.” With that he speed dialed her number in his phone.

“Hai!”

“Alex, where are you?”

“Hmm, I’m in Ginza. Shopping why?”

“You’re shopping? Are you alone?”

“Yup.”

“Matte. I’ll meet you.”

“I thought you have a meeting with Johnny-san. How did it go?”

“About that I’ll tell you later. I still have a meeting about our album it will only take about an hour. Can you wait for me? And don’t go buying heavy stuff.”

“Hmmm, an hour okay? Is it okay though? I mean we can get caught you know.”

“Are you near bvlgari?”

“Yes. Actually I’m here at their store. You want to meet here. I mean in Il Ristorante?”

“Yes. Hmm, ‘Lex my friends, also my band mates, wanted to meet you, is it okay?”

“Hmm, Sure. When?”

“Wait I’ll ask them. They’re all hovering over me in fact.”

“WE want NOW!”

“I heard them. All the while they’re listening right?”

“Yeah. Gomen it’s just they’re all stubborn when they want something.”

“It’s okay. Meet me here in the restaurant. I’ll be going to GAP before I go to the restaurant.”

“Okay. Don’t buy anything heavy. Just look for the things you want to buy and I’ll buy it later.”

“Yes, sir. Jaa”

After the meeting the all six man of KAT-TUN pile up in Kame’s car to meet with the latter’s love of his life. They arrived in the restaurant at exactly 2 pm but Alex is nowhere to be found causing Kame to panic.

“Kame.”

“KAME!”

“Kamenashi, she might be on her way here. Why don’t you call her? That’s why the hand phones are invented so we can call the ones we love.” Jin scolded the man who is pacing back and forth near their table.

He flipped his phone open. The other line is ringing but the owner won’t pick up. He was so busy with his cell phone that he didn’t notice the figure approaching their table.

It was Jin who saw the woman wearing an empire-cut baby pink dress that reaches her mid-thigh and fuchsia pumps. Despite that noticeable bump in her stomach, you can see the model in her the way she carry herself and the way she walks.

“Kazu!”

The man she’s calling is not listening instead he’s frowning in his cell phone. He just realized the person he is calling is behind him when someone whacked him at the head.

“Kazuya Kamenashi, I think the person you are calling is right behind you.” Tat-chan informed him with that annoying smirk of his.

Truly, Alex was standing behind him looking innocently at him.

“Don’t ever scare me like that again.” He enveloped her into a very tight hug making sure that Alex really is there with him.

“Kazu, too tight.” Alex complained at him

“Gomen, I was just so worried arriving and you’re not around. I panic.”

“I’m here now. So..”

“Ah, guys, this is Alex, my girl.”

“Hi guys. Nice to finally see you in person.”

“Oh really you know about us?” Maru asked her excitedly

“Okay, if you know us, can you tell our names?” Jin challenged her

Smiling wickedly, Alex recited their names. “Okay first, A- Akanishi Jin the one with the beautiful voice and a sexy body. Next is taguchi Junnosuke, the one who love puns. Then Tanaka Koki, the rapper. Then, Ueda tatsuya, the boxer and also have the beautiful voice. Lastly, Nakamaru Yuuichi, the human beat-box.”

“Sugoi!! You’re really watching us.” Tat-chan was awed

“My brother gave me a DVD and CD of you guys. I also bought some myself.”

“Ei, let’s sit down okay.” Kame noticed they are still standing while chatting with each other.

“Hmm.. What do you guys want to eat? I’m starving?” Jin asked them

“Kazu, I want fettuccini and garlic bread.” Alex requested from her boyfriend. They’re officially “on” now. She never really can’t resist Kame, the father of her child or not. He’s proven himself to her and their baby. Marriage is actually the only thing missing from them. And she’s planning to consider his proposal waiting for the right chance to say “yes”.

“Okay. They’re healthy enough.”

They all eat their food while chatting like Alex is their long-time friend. Often telling some idiotic acts by Kame during concerts and shootings. Alex was exhilarated by the warm acceptance of the group.

“So what’s the gender?” Jin asked all of a sudden

“Oh, not yet we’ll know about it next week.” Kame answered

“You’re always together during check-ups?”

“Well, when Kazu-chan has no schedule he always stay with me but if you guys have schedule he just drive me to the clinic”

“SWEET!!!” they teased their youngest member who is blushing furiously.

“SHUT UP!” kame grunted. “Alex, what did you buy? It looks like you ransacked GAP boutique.

“Kame, why don’t you call her alex-chan? She calls you kazu-chan.” Jin asked curiosly

“Alex-chan sounds unusual don’t you think? And I prefer to be called Alex, I’m not yet used to adding –chan in names. It’s only in his name that I add that“

“Ah sou desu ne. Alex-chan sound weird.” Maru added

“So it’s okay for us to call you Alex too?” Junno asked

“Yes, Call me Alex or Alexia. It’s just my grandparents who call me Yuna.”

“Actually, this is her longest stay here in Japan. Usually she come her for a short visit the longest is just a month. So she’s not used to our usual day-to-day life and customs.”

Alex just smiled shyly at them.

“So let us teach you the Japanese way then” Koki offered

“Arigatou ne. But my brother already took over that job. Honestly, there’s not much difference and my mom brought me up teaching Japanese traditions. It’s just that I don’t often use them because of the environment I’m living in.”

After almost 2 hours of eating and conversations they all went their separate ways. Kame and Alex back to Shiodome while the other members took cabs to go home.

They are in the living room and Alex has carefully placed her purchases in her room. She can see Kame was feeling sleepy. She knew he woke up early than usual because of the photo shoot for a certain magazine.

“Ne, Kazu-chan, you can rest in my room.”

“I’m fine. Just a bit tired” he failed to stifle his yawn making Alex laugh at him.

“It’s okay rest in my room. Don’t be shy. It’s not like it’s your first time doing that.”

“It’s still embarrassing, I only sleep here when you’re mom was worried about me driving so late.”

“Kamenashi don’t be stubborn. My mom would understand. In fact, she’s asking me you want to stay here so you don’t have to drive back and forth. She also said gasoline is so expensive nowadays so it’s cheaper if you just stay here.”

“Your mom said that? It’s okay?”

“Baka, my mom is understanding somehow she feels happy seeing us together. I mean she’s glad to see we’re getting along fine.”

“Hmm… so let’s sleep ne. You won’t let me sleep alone, right? It would be lonely without you. Aren’t you tired from shopping?”

“Why do I smell something fishy with your suggestion?” she asked in a teasing tone

“Well, I’ll sleep soundly knowing you’re beside me.”

With all that said she dragged Kame to her bedroom.

KAT-TUN is again on their summer concert; therefore Kame’s time with Alex is very limited especially when he had to travel away from Tokyo. He’s worried that Alex is already nearing her term and he’ll not be around to be beside her when she gave birth.

At last it’s the last day of their concert tour and as it is every year Tokyo Dome is jam-packed with screaming fans. Of course today’s concert will be filmed and released in DVD. Everybody is excited and as well as all the backup dancers, the band and most of all KAT-TUN. They are all giddy-giddy while waiting for the queue to go on –stage. For Kame he’s excited but still a bit worried, Alex insisted of watching their last day. She was seated in the VIP section with his mom. He knew that Nic was also there supporting his sister who was so stubborn to attend even with her bulging stomach. He looked at the other members who are aware of his worries.

“It’s okay, kame, she knows what she’s doing.” Jin assured him

“And your mom is with her so if your mom sense anything she’ll surely take care of her. Plus the VIP section is not that crowded.” Maru patted his shoulders

“Okay, stop worrying already, we’re on”

“Yosh, Minna ganbatte!”

The concert was a success. They went out for 3 encores. When they went backstage, they we’re greeted by cheers of all their kouhais and managers.

Surprisingly, Johnny was also there to congratulate him. Johnny rarely does that.

“Kame, I saw your girlfriend in the VIP, why did you allow her to attend? She must be deaf from all the screams of your fans.”

“Sir, she’s the one who insisted on attending. If I didn’t give in, she’ll be sure be raging mad at me.”

“Stubborn ne. She’s waiting for you in your resting room with your mom. I told her to wait for you there rather than in the car.”

“Arigatou, Johnny-san”

As soon as they entered the room, Alex congratulated them all. Giving each member a hug except Kame

“Koki, not to tight. And you’re all perspiring, Alex, they stink” Kame said possessively

“It’s okay. I’m happy to have watched you guys. And it’s my first time watching you live because someone is so stubborn not to let me watch. If I didn’t throw tantrums last night I’m sure will just be waiting for the DVD to be released.”

“Alex, Kame is just worried for you. And I know you know that already.” Jin teased her.

“Whatever.”

“Ne, I haven’t received my hug yet.” Kame complained.

“Kame, stop being a kid.” His mom who was silently watching the group scolded her son

“Okaasan, it’s because I’m worried.”

“It’s natural to be worried. Since she’ll be giving birth anytime soon. But the happiness in her eyes while she watches you guys, is something priceless.”

“Maa, maa.. Kame, just change already okay as soon as you’re ready to go home Alex can have her rest.”

Kame decided to follow their orders. He can sense there’s something wrong with Alex even she looks happy he can see a look of discomfort in her eyes.

“Ano, Kazu-chan, can you show me the restroom? “

“Come on, I’ll show you.”

Kame led her to a cubicle while he entered the one with the shower. He was in the middle of shampooing his hair when he heard Alex shout his name. He turned off the shower and asked her what’s wrong.

“I think my water bag broke.”

“WHAT! Wait I’ll just rinse myself.” He took a record in finishing his shower and approached Alex who was leaning in one of the sink.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes”

“Don’t panic ne. Ah… we have to get back to the others.”

“I’m not in panic I think it’s you who’s panicking”

Just then the door burst open revealing the other members maybe who has been waiting for their turn in the shower room.

“Kame what’ wrong why are you so pale? And why are you shouting?” Jin asked Kame

“Guys, Alex is going to give birth.” He shouted at them

“Okay. Calm down. I’ll inform your mother and also Nic.” Tat-chan ran off

“hai.” As he assisted Alex back to the room

“Dear, are you in pain?” Kame’s mom asked worriedly

“Not really. You’re son is just overacting I can still walk myself. My OB told me to walk while I’m contracting so I can forget the pain.”

Nic came rushing in.

“Nee-chan, are you okay? Kazu, let’s go!”

“Nic, stop panicking, will you? I’m still hours away from giving birth. Call my OB and told her we’re on our way. And call mom too and tell her to bring my bag.” She turned to Kame “Honey, you better changed into something descent or the nurses in the hospital will go on hysterics?”

It’s just then Kame realized he’s still wearing a towel.

“hai!” he felt embarrassed. He was aware of the grin on his friends’ faces.

After he changed into something descent, he ushered Alex to the parking lot where Nic parked.

They are inside the pre-labor now. Alex was getting irritated at Kame who was pacing to and fro the room making her feel dizzy. She would love to have Kame with her in the delivery but they didn’t get a lesson in Lamaze because it would only cause gossip. A worried Kame is not a good companion inside the delivery room. She will only be abstracted. They both agreed that her mom would accompany her while delivering the baby.

The contraction is now in short intervals she knew its time.

“Kame, can you call the nurse, I think it’s time. And just wait outside the delivery room. For God’s sake, relax will you.”

“It’s time? Matte. Be strong ne.. a-no

“KAMENASHI! Get a grip. Go and call the nurse or my OB now. And also my mom.”

Kame knew she’s now irritated. He kissed her in the tummy and then in the forehead and finally in the lips.

“Honey, I’ll be fine. You’ll soon see our darling baby.”

Short Epilogue

One Year later,

The “unofficial Kamenashi family” was strolling in Yoyogi Park together with their pet Ran-chan. They’re unaware of a couple watching them from one of the benches, the parents, Alex and Kazu, are busy coaxing their 1-year old daughter to walk on her own, they didn’t see they are being photographed.

The next morning, Friday, their happy family was the front page of Friday magazine. Saturday Kamenashi was called into Johnny’s office to explain the carelessness.

“Johhny-san, what should we do?” Kame asked their big boss.

“We won’t comment” came as an answer

“But my family is at risked here. Alex mom called me earlier. We decided for us to move back to Shiodome for the time being until the news settled down.” They are already living separately in their own apartment.

“That’s a good decision. Our telephone hasn’t stop ringing since the news came out. But we’ll not issue a statement not until we reach a decision.”

“But our concert is already scheduled and the tickets are already for sale. What would we do if no one watch the concert?”

“Let me call the ticket outlet to see if the sales has gone down. I haven’t received the sales report from yesterday.”

After 5 minutes, they learned that the news didn’t affect the sales instead the demand for the tickets has gone up.

“You see, I think your fans are curious about this issue. Don’t you think it’s time to tell them the truth? I won’t go against you if you guys decided to announce your being a father to Sofia. Discuss this with your friends.”

He did as he was told. And his friends agreed to reveal KAT-TUN’s secret baby. They can’t deprive the innocent child who has captured their hearts of being acknowledged by her own father publicly. They also think it’s unfair to Alex to be kept in the background anymore, not when she has penetrated the Japan fashion industry by being Bvlgari’s official model. They decided to announce it in their concert.

KAT-TUN Fall concert, it’s again their last day of series of performances. Now they are back in Tokyo Dome. Kame’s is nervous. It’s now the judgment day for him and also the day that they’ll seal their Band’s faith. Yesterday, Johnny already meet with the other units, he’s the one who took the liberty to express KAT-TUN’s decision regarding the issue of Kamenashi’s family matters. They think they owe they’re sempais and kouhais to let them know of their decisions. And they all have been supportive of him, Kame’s small family is not a secret among the JE family but they all keep their mouth shut.

Alex and her family are also aware of what will happen today. In fact her mom and brother is here to watch as well as her father who flew from Greece to attend today’s concert. They have supported the couple’s decision to come out in the open, there’s no need of hiding anymore because the paparazzi will definitely think of the way to expose them.

MC part: five members are in the center of the stage. Kame, Junno, Koki, Ueda, and Maru. Jin is backstage who is the one in-charge of bringing the surprise in.

Maru: Minna, we have an announcement to make.

Murmurs from the crowd can be heard. Everybody are curious of what could the announcement be.

Koki: We stand in this stage as one. We made this decision as one. Now minna, we’re asking for you’re understanding.

They can see the crowd is already in the verge of tears and panic. What could it be? Will they be disbanding? The cameras are showing the agitated faces of their fans.

Junno: Ne,ne, don’t cry minna. We’re not going anywhere. Rest assured we wouldn’t be disbanding. We can’t do that we’ll sing for you until you ask us to stop.

Ueda: Saa, Jin come on out.

Jin came in walking towards the other member, carrying with him their surprise.

Jin: Minna, I would like to introduce to you our baby, Aoi Sofia…….

The people are holding on to their breath… including Alex and her family. Alex is so proud of her daughter she didn’t cry after seeing many people.

Jin: Aoi Sofia Kamenashi, my goddaughter. Kazuya’s daughter.

At that point, Sofie as her uncles fondly call her, recognized her father she called her dada extending her hands at the same time.

Kame: Minna, hounto ni, sumimasen deshita. I kept this secret for so long. I deprived you of the truth but I did it for my daughter and also for her mom. When they came into my life, it became worth living. They’ve come to be my inspiration. Work became more fun. I became more professional in acting, thinking that I’m making both of them proud. Waking up early and going to work is not annoying anymore because I know they are waiting for me to come home. I pray to Kami-sama that this day would come that I’ll be able to tell you all. I pray to him that you’ll understand the rest of KAT-TUN and me for keeping silent all this time.

Jin: Minna, we’re sorry. We love Sofie very much as she is our own daughter. We spoil her much to her mother’s chagrin; she’s the glue that makes us closer. We would like to ask you to support us, despite, one of us having a child. I trust you will be open-minded to accept this fact about us.

All six of them bowed to their fans, all begging forgiveness and support.

KAME! KAME! KAME! KAT-TUN! KAT-TUN! KAME! KAME! KAME! KAT-TUN! KAT-TUN!

Those shout means so much to them. It only means one thing their fans support them.

KAT-TUN: Arigatou Gozaimasu!

Johnny came out bringing or dragging with him Alex who was so pale.

Kame: Minna! Meet my girlfriend and soon to be wife, Yuna Alexia Andreas. I hope you’ll accept her as you have accepted our daughter.

Johnny: All of you maybe be wondering why all of a sudden I’m supporting this couple when all the time I’ve been the number 1 antagonist of this guys, but this time they’ve proven themselves to me and the whole group. For so long, they’ve kept quiet in their relationship and it’s about time they break out of their silence. Minna-san, there’s only one thing I asked of you please continue supporting Johnny’s. And Kame-chan, don’t you dare teach Sofie-chan baseball.”

_*_

Two months later, KAT-TUN fandom witnessed one of the most romantic weddings in Japan’s history, the union of one of the successful idols of the country and Bvlgari’s official model. The couple had their honeymoon in the Maldives where they first found each other.

Holding on to Love

Part 3

Alex woke up in a sterile room of the emergency room of a hospital. She didn’t remember anything that happened she knew that she fainted how they got here in the hospital is a mystery to her. She felt a soft pat in her arms; her mother’s soft touch was so warm, easing all the dullness of the room.

“Mama, what happen?”

“You fainted. The doctor run some test but the result is not yet out.” Her mother informed her in a worried voice.

“Oneechan, you’re super stressed. Be careful next time okay?”

“Yes, sir.”

At the moment, the door opened revealing the doctor carrying a clipboard.

“Sensei, what’s wrong with my daughter?”

“Nothing to worry about. She just needs to be careful so her baby will be healthy.”

“Baby?!” Nic asked in a shocked voice

“You mean to say, I’m pregnant?”

“Does this mean that you’re not aware?” her mother asked her

“No. I mean I didn’t suspect it. Being busy and all, I just thought it’s over fatigue or stress”

“We’ve done the blood test and it clearly states that you’re pregnant. How long we’ll determine. When was the last time you have your monthly visit?

“November 10^th. But my period has always been irregular. Sometimes I won’t have in a month. And I don’t experience morning sickness either so how will I know?”

“There are pregnancies that are not the sensitive. And yours must be one of them. If will calculate you’ll almost on your second month. For now, I’ll refer you to our obstetrician.”

After visiting the OB, the doctor referred, they went home. The trip home was so silent you can only the soft sound of the air con. Everybody has their own thought, Alex sigh loudly causing her mom and brother to look at her.

“I’m okay. Sorry. I’m really lost right now.” With that she fell into a grave silence again.

“We’ll talk when you feel like talking, okay?” her mom told her

“Yeah”

All the while, Nic is watching her in the rearview mirror. He was thinking of who might have done this to her sister; only one name pops in his mine, Kazuya Kamenashi. He might not be always at his sister’s side but she knew her inside out. He knew that this is not meant to happen at least she didn’t plan it to happen but he also knew that she love Kamenashi and she’ll be keeping the child with or without Kame’s knowledge.

When they reach their condo unit, they all silently went into their own rooms. They all know that Alex is a strong woman and she’ll get through all this like she always does. Alex felt blessed that when she learned her condition she’s with her family, it’s a huge help for her.

She went out to her room’s balcony and sat in the chair, the night’s wind was softly blowing her the strands that came out of the bun. She’s glad that she already change into a simple dress after she checked out, it would be embarrassing going to the hospital in a red gown. Staring at the moon she just felt so blank, she doesn’t want to think of anything but relax. She wanted to rest both her mind and heart so she can have a wise decision. Having the baby is not a problem she really wasn’t so worried on how her friends would react her true friends will be just happy for her and those who aren’t will just gossip about her having a baby out of wedlock. It’s not as if she’s the first woman who has this situation but surely her status, as one of the elitist and also being a super model will make the issue more sensationalized. She didn’t care; as long as her family understands her she know she’ll be fine. One problem that she can’t really ignore is telling the father of her baby. She doesn’t know how he’ll accept it now that he’s committed to someone else. She’s not the type to ruin a relationship even if it would hurt her. She felt her tears flowing from her eyes. All she wanted now is to cry, and crying is all she could do to ease the burden in her heart. She went inside and lied on her bed still whimpering softly until exhaustion and sleep took over. She’s so deep in sleep that she didn’t feel the presence of her mom who checked on her daughter. Seeing she’s sleep at last, somehow she felt relieved. She didn’t know anything yet, she knows that her son is aware of her sister’s dilemma those knowing glances he’s throwing at her sister earlier confirms it all.

Kame woke up early since he has a 6 o’clock shoot for the drama. He only has 2 weeks worth of shooting before the crank-up. He really didn’t sleep at all. He sat in his balcony pondering on the things that happen that night. Suddenly seeing Alex walking in the catwalk came as a shock. He also felt betrayed because she didn’t contact him when she arrived, at the same time he felt guilty of being with Kyon that night. There’s no way he can refute her accusations he knew she’s hurt. Her eyes say it all. Jin was right their paths will cross again but it crossed at the wrong time. Now, he’s hurt her, he’s just liked the guy that hurt her before. Deep inside, there’s a small hope she’s now in his territory, he had to convince her that there’s nothing going anymore between and Kyon. He realized it the moment he saw her, he became oblivious of his surrounding even with the woman sitting beside him. She’s so beautiful, he didn’t even notice the jewelries she’s modeling he’s so mesmerized by her face instead of the twinkling diamonds on her neck and ears. A thought suddenly crossed his mind, he immediately reach for is cell phone. He immediately searched for that person’s name in his memory, Ellie-chan.

“Hai. This better be good Kame-chan. It’s 3 am already.” Ellie answered in a sleepy voice.

“Gomen, gomen. I won’t take long, do you know Alex Andreas cellphone number?” he asked earnestly

“I think I do? Want me to send it to you? I know she won’t mind since you two seem close.”

“Onegai. I’ll wait for it. Thanks ellie-chan. I owe you one”

“You owe me big time for disturbing my sleep and calling in ungodly hour. Wait for it, ne. Bye-bye Oyasumi!”

“Oyasumi. Gomen for ruining your sleep”

It’s only a matter of minutes when he received the number. But he didn’t dial it. Not now, he has to give her space. And as Ellie said it’s already morning. After shooting he’ll contact her.

But the shooting finished later than he expected. He only have to change his clothes before he headed for several interviews and recording. Calling her has been pushed from his mind.

Alex decided to tell her mother about what happen to her, the next day she learned her predicament. After dinner they all gathered in her room, including her brother. She told her that Nic already know about meeting Kazuya Kamenashi, the father of her child, in Maldives. Nic already know some of the details but she told them the whole story without hiding anything from them. They deserve it. They didn’t interrupt her storytelling they waited patiently for her to finish.

“Is this Kamenashi, the same Kamenashi starring in the drama that’s airing now?”

“Hai, okassan. Onee-chan hasn’t seen him act yet.”

“Mama, I met the Kazuya the real one not the actor. When I meet him, he told me he’s an idol here. I didn’t ask anything more thinking it’s not important anyway. What’s more important is the real being of that person. You brought us up that way, not caring about status but just seeing the other person’s heart. And I saw that gentleness and caring in him.”

“This means you like him or maybe you love him right? This child it a fruit of the love you have for him?”

“Yes”

“Then everything will be okay. All you have to do is love your child and take care of him until he grows up. Being a good parent is what matters most.” Her mom wisely advised her

“Oneechan, how about Kamenashi-kun? Do you plan to tell him.”

“I will. It’s his right to know.”

“You know that there will be consequences right? He’s a popular person.” Nic reminded her.

“I know”

“When are you going to tell him? The sooner, the better. You can only take another step after you informed him. You’re decision will depend on how he’ll react.”

“I know. I won’t force him to accept the child and take responsibility as such. It should be his initiative. Deep in my heart, I know he’ll recognize his own child. I know it. But to publicly announce about us, I won’t allow that to happen later maybe but not now. I want my child to grow in a normal surrounding not to be criticized or be scrutinized by the public eyes. I won’t deny him of this baby. I’m not that cruel.”

“When are you going to tell him?”

“I’m meeting first with George, Tomorrow to tell him not to renew my Chloe contract. I’ll be tendering a one-year leave from Bvlgari. Since the launch is over, my service is not that necessary it will be until the next collection that we’ll be having the show. Maybe I’ve given birth that time, my full term is in August.”

Her mom and brother hug her, and bid her good night. Her mom told her that she has to take a lot of rest so her baby will be safe; she told her that the first trimester is often a delicate period for a pregnant woman. She felt her tummy, the signs are not visible yet, but she noticed her tummy is firmer than usual but the baby bump is not yet recognizable.

The next day, her mom drove her to George’s hotel. She told her she’d just walk to her shop since it’s just a few blocks away.

“Alex, what seems to be the problem? Why don’t you want to renew the contract? We already turn down the contracts from the local designers In London.”

“George, I’m pregnant.” She told him point-blank

“What?! When did this happen? Do I know the father? Oh my God, did I tell you congratulations yet? We should be celebrating.”

“Calm down George. Thank you for the greetings. I’m shocked you didn’t get mad at me. I deserved to be yelled at, you know.”

“How can I yell to you? Alex a baby is a blessing. We might loose business but nothing can compare to your gift.. You know I’ve been praying that God give me an ovary too, you know. So who’s the father?” George is a full-pledge gay.

“You don’t know him. I’m not yet ready to tell you, but I tell you as soon as I told him.”

“YOU HAVEN’T TOLD HIM YET?”

“Not yet, I still have to settle things with you. Are there still some pending assignments I have to finish? Can you talk with Bvlgari about my leave of absence?”

“I’ll talk to them. Bvlgari loves you dear. They’ll understand after the success of the fashion show I know they can’t refuse you. And Mr. Piantella is a friend too so it’s easier for them to approve. But there’s still this offer I haven’t told you about. There’s a Japanese businessman asking me if you can do a commercial for them. The company is a local beauty product here.”

“Really. But I don’t want to do any promotions right now. Bvlgari will be my priority. I remember there’s still that photo shoot for Chloe advertisement. When should I do that? I want to finish it sooner you know before my pregnancy show.”

“It should be on the 26^th but you told me to move all your appointments. I haven’t received their new schedule.”

“Take back our request I’ll do it on 26^th . I’m going back to London with you. And probably my mom will go with me, after that we’re going back here. I want to be with my mom when I give birth.”

“Okay, I understand. So no projects for you in one-year. When are you going to give birth?”

“I’m due on August. That’s it then. I’ll be going. I want to go window shopping before going to my mom’s shop.”

She wanders aimlessly at the shopping center. Looking through the shop’s window trying to find something for her dad and step mom and Eve also to her staffs in her boutique.

She remember Eve, she sure will get a lot from her best friend/cousin when she told her what happen. Telling her father is another matter, he’ll sure be angry with her.

“Stop it. There’s still a problem at hand you’ve got to solve it first.,” she scolded herself

After so much hesitation, she dialed the number she memorized by heart. The other line just continue on ringing, it seems like the other party has things in hand and can’t pick up the phone. “Baka, maybe he is at work of course the phone is in silent mode.”

Frustration in slowly building up that she decided just to give up and try calling later. She walked towards her mom’s shop. When she entered the shop there are few customers who are already there looking at the display racks. There’s that distinct smell that caught her nose, feeling she’ll gonna throw up she run into the privy and empty the breakfast she ate that morning.

Her mom, who saw her, entered the room and rubbed her back. “Now, it’s morning sickness my dear. Your symptoms are starting to show. So you better eat properly because it will hurt most when you throw up with an empty stomach.”

She helped her tidied and assisted her to the private office inside the shop.

The next early morning when Kame finally was able to go home to rest for a few hours before heading out again for his shoot, he check his phone for messages, there are messages from his manager and Koki, what caught his attention more are the miscalls he received from Alex. Luckily, he already saved the number that Ellie-chan gave him. Now he knew that Alex also made a move to contact him, he dialed the number since it’s already morning maybe she’s already awake.

A sleepy voice answered him. “Hello, Alex here.”

“Hi! Kazuya here. Are you still in bed?”

“Hmm…KAZU! Matte!” he can hear that she’s already wide-awake and probably getting up from her bed.

“I saw your miscalls so I decided to return your calls.”

“How did you know it’s me?”

“I got your number from Ellie-chan.”

“I see. So what’s up?”

“Heee shouldn’t I be the one asking you that? You’re the one to call first.”

As if the other person suddenly remembered something, he waited for a few seconds before he finally hear her speak again.

“Ano, hmm, can we meet? I’m leaving for London on the 23^rd and I want to talk to you about something. Are you free today?”

“Hmm.. I’m free until 2 pm. I have a drama shooting at 3. Where do you want to meet?”

“Is it okay for you to come to my house? I’m not feeling so well to travel. And I don’t want anybody to see us together. Both of us don’t want paparazzi on our backs.”

“Give me the address”

“La Tour Shiodome. Call me when you’re here I’ll meet you at the lobby.”

“Okay. I’ll be there in 20 minutes.”

Suddenly Kame forgot all his sleepiness and tiredness, what matters now is for him to see Alex again. They need to clear things between so they can start a new. He showered in record time and change into his usual clothes. He grab his bag, keys and cell phone and went out of the apartment.

He was so shocked. Alex was just 10 minutes away from him and they didn’t even bump each other. Well, their job is the answer why.

He parked his car in the basement parking of the building reserved for the customers of the establishments renting in Shiodome. This only proves that Alex’s family is really rich. Living in Shiodome costs a lot of money for all he knew; her family might be one of the stockholders of Shiodome.

He called Alex as soon as he jumped out of his car.

“You’re here already. Wait I’m going down.”

In 5 minutes he saw her slim figure walking towards him.

“Hi!”

“Hi!”

“Have you eaten breakfast?”

“Not yet. I just got home when I saw your calls.”

“Ah so I owe your breakfast. Let’s go up then, my mom left me breakfast. If you don’t mind eating my mom’s cooking.”

“Not at all. We’re going up your unit? Is it okay?”

“Yeah. I told mom you’re coming. She just left after you called this morning. She would want to meet you but there is a problem in one of her store.”

They entered the elevator and he saw her pressed 55^th floor.

“You live in the penthouse?”

“No. One floor below the penthouse actually.”

“Wow. Are you one of the developers of this building?”

“Yes”

They both heard “ding” signaling they’ve reach their destination. On the 55^th floor there seem to be just a few doors 4 to be exact. They entered the 2^nd door that he saw.

“Come on in.”

“Hai”

“This is our home. Please make yourself comfortable. You want coffee?”

“Yes, thanks.”

Kame let his eyes gaze around the living room where Alex left her. The room is minimally decorated with sofa, a low table, and a big plasma TV, Adding the color to the room is a flower painting above the sofa. It’s a minimalist type of room giving the visitors space. In the living room window the breathtaking view of Tokyo Bay can be seen which must be more beautiful at night. He can see Alex busy taking plates and utensils in the table from the kitchen. Minutes later he can smell the strong aroma of the coffee blending with the smell the bread being heated. “Smells so homey”

“Kazu-chan. Come on let’s have breakfast.”

He seat at the table in front of Alex.

“Wow” looking at the loaves of bread, slices of cheese, ham, bacon, and there are also lettuce and slices of tomatoes. “Hey, Alex I didn’t know you still drink milk?”

“It’s Soya milk and it’s good for the body.”

“But when we ate breakfast in Royal Island you always have coffee with your toast.”

“Well, I just prefer milk today. Come on stop criticizing my milk. Eat okay.”

“Hai.”

They eat their meals in silent. Alex mind was busy processing on how to tell Kame of her condition. Kame was busy eating and staring at her. Saying “Omai” once in a while.

After breakfast, they returned to the living room.

“Alex, is something bothering you? You’ve been spacing out”

This is it. “Ano, Kazu, there’s something I have to show you. Can you wait for a second”?

She entered her room and got her pregnancy kit. And also the doctor’s findings. When she returned she handed them out to Kame who accept them with a curious eyes.

“Isn’t this a pregnancy kit?”

“Yes. There are two lines there.”

“Yes. Matte, I’ve read somewhere, two line mean positive right? Can it be..”

“Yes, I’m pregnant.. two months to be exact. And you’re the father.”

“What you’re …WHAT?”

“You heard me.”

“Why did you told me only now? And you’re leaving already?”

“It’s because I learned about it 2days ago. After the fashion show when I collapsed in the hotel. I’m leaving to tie things up in London. I’ll be back in a week or two.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you collapse? I should have been there with you when you learn about this.” He’s still concern and relieve that she’s coming back it means he has a chance to be with her again.

“I’m confused okay. I’m not expecting this. And do you know how hard it is for me to finally tell you. Knowing that there will be someone who I will end up hurting? Do you know how hurt am I knowing that the father of my child belongs to another woman? Do you know how frustrated I am to know of my condition only after two months? I’m driving my body so hard, working so hard barely having time to rest so when I get back to my hotel room I’ll be dead tired to think. I’ve been so careless and insensitive of what happening inside of me?” she’s now crying hard.

Kame stand where he was sitting and embrace her softly, Her body is trembling with all the emotions and pain she’s been keeping inside.

“Enough now Hush. It will be bad for the baby if you become like this.” He rubbed her back gently as he could.

“I’m sorry it took me too long to decide. I won’t ask you to take responsibility. All I want is for you to acknowledge the baby. I want him to know and love its father. I don’t want to deny you of the rights as a father.”

“I will take responsibility. But would your family accept me?”

“My father doesn’t know yet only my mom, my brother and of course my manager. My father will surely get mad, specially having a child out of wedlock…

“We’ll get married right…

“No, let me finish first. I’m not going to ask you to marry me. A child is not reason enough to get married. It’s unfair for everybody. And I don’t want to drag you into a scandal. I want to live normally with our child. I don’t want to drag him to any scandal. I know how harsh are the fans here. You may call me a coward all you like. But I’m not willing to take a risk that would endanger the child and me. And I don’t want to drag my family’s name in this. You know being a super model, I know I’ll face some issues too like you but I know it’s so much calmer than what would happen if people knew you’d be a father soon. I’ll be sharing my son with you even if it would mean keeping that fact a secret. If time is right you can announce to the world you have a child. If you would want to spend time with him, I’m fine with that. I’m considering relocating here and help my mom run the stores. All I want from you maybe is to help me keep this fact within us. I don’t want paparazzi butting in my life. It’s okay if your friends know, even with your agency but not the public. One thing it’s better if you tell your girlfriend about this I don’t want to be an antagonist in this situation. Because I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

“I understand. But I want to tell you this. Kyon is not my girlfriend anymore. We never get back together. She wants us to get back but I realized there’s someone else fated to me. Time will come I’ll ask you to marry me and I won’t take no for an answer. I wanted to be a good father and thank you for considering my situation right now. As much as I also want to shout to the world that I will be a father soon, I don’t want to sacrifice our child’s privacy and the right to have a normal childhood.”

“You didn’t get back with Kyon? Then why all the commotion and why did I saw you with her that time?”

“It just happened that a common friend throw a party and we both went there. And I brought her home for old time sake. We’re still friends after all. It really did put me in the hot seat when our photos were publicized but truth be told we don’t have anything more between us but friendship.”

“Kazu-chan, I hope you’re not saying all of these because of the baby. I want to be honest with you I like you. Heck, I like you a lot; I think I’ve fallen for you. There’s not a day in this past 2 months that I didn’t think of you despite learning you’re back with your ex. Learning I’m having your baby I don’t have any regrets in fact I’m happy. Shocked but happy. I may not have you but I can have a part of you growing inside my belly. I’m willing to sacrifice everything for this baby. I already love him/her. And I’ll protect her from all the harshness of our world.”

Holding on To love

PART 2

January 7,2009

“Alex, who’s going to fetch you?” her manager asked her as they stand in the luggage counter waiting for their own suitcases.

“My brother. Maybe he’s already waiting for me. George, will there be press waiting for us?”

“I heard from the staff that there are some media that will cover the event including our arrival. Of course Japan’s fashion industry is waiting for the arrival of London’s supermodels. Your photos as I’m informed yesterday, were all displayed in Ginza’s Bulgari Tower.”

Selena, Cleo and Marti’s eyes are all wide in amazement “Wow! Japan here we come to conquer your runways.”

Gustav and Michel just smirked at the girls who are obviously acting like it’s their first time to ramp in a foreign land.

“Girls, this is your second time coming here. Remember you went here 2 years ago.” George reminded his overexcited talents. “It’s Alex who will be ramping here for the first time.”

“But still she always come here in Japan, right? We can only come here if we have fashion shows. We’re always assigned to European projects,” Cleo reasoned out.

“Guys, our suitcases are here already.”

“Let the staff handle those. The cars are waiting for us. Alex, call your brother. We’re going out.”

When they went out, Alex didn’t expect this kind of reception. Flashes of cameras welcome them. Together with the models, the top people of Bulgari in Italy arrived in Narita International Airport. Before the launch of the new collection there will be a general assembly for all the officials of Bvlgari and also it’s this time of the year that the main people visits their biggest outlet.

She soon spotted her brother waving frantically at her. 

“Guys, I’ll be going then. Mr. Piantella, I have to go.”

“Okay, Ms. Andreas, send my regards to your mother.” The relationship officer, Angelo Piantella, bid her good-bye. His wife, Maria, and her mother are classmates when her mom studied in Italy.

“I will. I’ll be dropping by the hotel tomorrow morning for fitting of the wardrobes, George. Hmm. I’ll call you okay or you can call me at home. I’ll be using my usual number here in Japan.”

With a wave she left her friends to get their designated transportation going to their hotel. She then walks towards her brother with the airport staff lugging her suitcases behind her.

“Dominic! I miss you, bro.” She enveloped her brother in a warm embrace.

“Nee-chan! I miss you too.”

If other people saw them, they conclude that Nic was her boyfriend. Her brother even opens the door of the car for her.

“Where’s mama?”

“She’s at home already. She’s so excited to see you so she just left her office earlier than usual. I’m sure she already finished cooking your favorite curry.”

They arrived in their residence in Minato-ku, La-Tour Shiodome where their 4-bedroom 55^th floor condominium unit was situated. Her mom opted to buy the condominium to avoid long travels from Kanagawa to Tokyo where their business is located. Her mom own a chain of boutiques, Kimono, the name says it all, they specialize on traditional costumes of Japan. In her own boutique, Alex usually has Kimonos in the display racks, which are usually shipped by her mom to her. Like her, her mom is not working directly in their family business, which is real estate development, textile business and telecommunication. Her grandfather and uncles are the ones responsible for them, her mom just usually attend the stockholders meeting twice a year.

“Tadaima!” Nic and Alex greeted in chorus.

“Okaeri! Alex, honey, I miss you.” Her mom hugged her tightly. “You seem to loose weight but still as slender as ever.”

“Nah, everybody is saying that. Don’t worry after this Bvlgari project; I’m taking a break. Mr. Piantella sends his regards, he came here with us.”

“Oh, I’ll call him sometime. Nic, deposit your sister’s things in her bedroom. And join us in the living room after.”

“hai!”

“So how are you? How are your dad and aunt?”

“They’re doing good as usual he keep bugging me to marry already. He even gave me a deadline, he said I should marry before I turn 27 if not he’ll be matching me again with his friends’ sons. Katarina is doing well. Her restaurant business is booming. Well, everybody are getting richer, all are busy with their own businesses. Even the gathering last Christmas was full of business talks, only the kids are really enjoying the essence of Christmas.”

“Speaking of that, your gift is in my room. I’ll give it to you later.”

“Yeah, Nee-chan, where’s my gift?”

“Baka, I haven’t unpack yet, don’t worry it’s in my suitcase?”

“You brought here 2 large suitcases, I’m sure you exceeded the maximum luggage weight again. What are those clothes? Nee-chan your closet here is full of clothes you don’t have to bring so many”

“None of your business! Stop picking on me, or else I won’t give you your gifts!” she teased her brother. As if a bell, signaling the end of their quarrel, the oven’s timer gives a distinct chime that tells them her mom’s dish is already cooked.

“Alex, go change your clothes firsts while I prepare the table. Nic, I need your help.”

“Okay. I’ll follow you in the dining area in 10 minutes.”

Her bedroom was tidily prepared, just like her mom to keep it neat everyday as if Alex is really living with them. The queen-size bed was covered with light pink satin comforter. All the perfumes and knick-knacks were arranged in her Laura Ashley dressing table. She knew that her mom’s greatest dream is for Alex to settle down in Japan. She’s considering that thought after meeting Kazu-chan but that was before she learnt of an awful fact.

Flashback:

January 3,2009

“Moshi-moshi!” a sleepy voice answered in the other end

“Nic. Are you sleeping?” she asked

“NEE-CHAN!!! What’s the matter?” Nic’s voice suddenly lost the sleepiness

“I’m fine. I just wanted to ask you something. Don’t panic.” She said calmly

“That’s nice to hear, you can’t blame me though calling at this hour will surely cause me panic, it’s only 2 am here.”

“My bad. I just grabbed the phone and dialed your number without thinking.”

“So what’s wrong?”

“I’ve listened to your CD, I like it. But there is this one guy that caught my attention, his name is Kazuya Kamenashi”

“Oh so you have a crush on Kamenashi-kun.”

“You may not believe it but I met him last month when I went to Maldives. We sort of you know become friends.”

“Lucky you. He’s one of the most loved idols here in Japan. And also a good actor.”

“Really. We became friends but actually I only knew a few things about him. I never expected that he’s that famous. He told me he’s in a band and a famous idol too but I didn’t know how much.”

“Understandable. Because he went to Maldives in his private time maybe he wants to be just Kamenashi Kazuya the real person not an idol. I remember watching him in an interview talking about his trip to Maldives he even showed Pictures of the place. I didn’t guess that he went there the same time as you.”

“So what is he like, I mean being an idol?”

“He’s cool, he has many fans both male and female. He became a household name also because of his dramas I believe he even won awards on his acting. His band is also successful, the album I sent you was their 1^st album and the DVD was the one when they debuted. My girlfriend has a collection of all their albums and DVDs and also magazines with KAT-TUN as the cover.”

“Really your girlfriend is a KAT-TUN fan, who is her idol then?”

“Oh, it’s Jin Akanishi, Kame’s best friend. She’s crazy about him. Even dragging me to their concert last August. It’s worth it though, man, they can sing live. Powerful voices plus powerful performance it’s worth the money and the line we have to go through before we enter the venue.”

“Yeah, they have beautiful voices. I heard Kazu-chan sing once. Does he have a girlfriend?”

“Hmm. I don’t know but he was Friday’d last week, he was seen with his ex-girlfriend, I forgot the name, but she’s older than him.”

“Friday’d what’s that? I also didn’t know the name but he mentioned he came to Maldives to heal his broken heart cause by a women older than him.”

“Friday is a gossip magazine here unreliable but when he was featured there was a picture of them together entering her apartment building.”

“Ah.. So maybe they already get back what they have before ne.”

Nic didn’t miss the sudden hitch in her voice “What’s wrong Nee-chan? It’s not just crush right? You fall in love with him right? Please tell me I’m wrong”

“Nic, you’re onee-chan is a big baka. I think I’ve fallen in love with him knowing that there’s no future for us.”

“You’re not baka.. Falling in love is a natural thing only your circumstances are tough. I mean you’re total strangers falling in love in a travel but those relationship don’t lasts long especially when you’re oceans apart. Don’t cry. Yappari, I know there’s something wrong with you calling at this hour.”

“What should I do? I’m really miserable right now. I even called him last Christmas to greet him but he didn’t answer his phone. Maybe fate doesn’t want us together ne.”

“I wish I can hug you right now. I want you to understand something. Here in Japan, fans are protective of their idol to the point of word slashing the girls that are being linked to their idols. I don’t want to hear people say bad things about you. It’s not that I don’t like him for you. I know he’s a good guy or else you won’t get close to him or show him the real Alexia Andreas but you see, the world he lives in is cruel as it is glamorous. I knew you know that kind of life being the daughter of Leandro Andreas has those kinds of consequences too.”

“Yeah. It’s hard being branded. People always are on the lookout for the mistakes I might make. Lucky you living there, ne, we maybe far apart but at least you’re able to live freely.”

“Onee-chan it’s your choice to be there as well as it’s your choice to be a famous model that you are now. I even saw your pictures in fashion magazines that mom always buy. I’m proud of you to be able to make it in the field you choose. No matter what, mom and I will be here for you. I felt sad that you’re broken hearted right now. I didn’t know you fell for him so I recklessly mentioned that fact about him and his girl.”

“It’s alright. I know you meant no harm. At least now, I know where I stand. I have to forget him I really have to. Thank you brother for listening. I haven’t talked to anyone about him. I’m glad to have someone like you. We’re weird ne, usually brother and sister like us don’t communicate like this. I’m glad you’re my brother.”

“Stop crying now, okay. I’ll see you on the 7th. I’ll give you a big hug then.”

“Thank you. Good-bye then. Oyasumi.”

“Bye-bye!”

End of flasback

“Onee-chan! What’s taking you so long? It’s already 15 minutes.” Nic’s voice startled her.

“Sorry. I’m coming.”

During dinner, Alex just picks her food. She has no appetite, suddenly her favorite curry doesn’t appeal to her. Her mother studied her silently wondering what’s wrong with her. She blame it to jet lag.

After dinner, they all gathered to her room where she distributed her gifts for them. Her mom also gave her gift to Alex, a set of pearl jewelry.

“It’s beautiful mom. Thank you. But I can’t wear them in the fashion show, you know strictly Bvlgari items only.”

“I know but you can wear it anytime you want. And any jewelry looks good on you.”

She presented them their gifts. The times she felt down she spend shopping in London. Buying perfumes, watches, clothes for her mom and brother as well as for her grandparents. She tends to shop a lot when she’s depressed.

Her mother has already left the room but her brother lingers behind. She knew why he’s hesitant to leave her.

“Nee-chan, how are you coping? About Kamenashi-kun, I mean.”

“Good. I’m coping don’t worry.”

“I’m glad then. If you’re having a hard time tell me. I know it’s hard for you to come here at this time; you just can’t abandon your commitments. There’s still a chance you’ll meet him here if you want, right, you have his number. I can’t blame you if you want to see him but I don’t approve it. I don’t want to see you get hurt.”

“I know, Nic, I know. I don’t intend to call him. I’ll let fate decide on that. If we’ll meet we’ll meet if not then we’re really not meant to meet again.”

“Be strong. Goodnight then. I’ll let you rest, I know you have full schedules this coming days.”

“Oyasumi”

As Nic predicted, the remaining days before the fashion show was full of appointments. Meeting with the couturier, make-up tests, hairdressers, even to the spa to ease tensed muscles. The last two days was spent rehearsing in the catwalk that was set-up in Bvlgari Ginza Tower. They’ll be ramping in one of the private rooms in the building. There will be famous people in Japan who’ll be attending the show even some politicians and their wives and also actors and actresses who are patrons of Bvlgari. Her mom and brother were also coming not as her guests but the company’s guest. Some people may not know it, but Andreas are blood related to the founders of Bvlgari.

The day before the fashion show, Alex checked in Hotel Seiyo Ginza, where the others are also staying. Her house is nearby but her manager wants to assure that all the models are fresh and relax during the show. And that night Bvlgari held a press conference for the launch, they are all invited to attend.

The big day has come, after the press con last night they are instructed to sleep early and have as much beauty rest they needed.

When they arrived at the venue, Il Ristorante, the bar-restaurant located in the eight-floor lounge was elegantly decorated as planned the terrace was set-up with buffet tables that will serve finger foods and the bar was ready to provide drinks to the guests.

All the models are nervous, even though it’s their job, this is a much awaited and much advertised launch, and they can’t afford to make mistakes. Not only are the jewelries, watches and accessories are being watched but also how the models will present them.

The hosts made the announcement that the show will start and asked the guest sit down on their respective places. The arrangement of the show will be first the bags, leather items and some gift items, the second will be the watches and the last will be the jewelries.

Kame was standing at the terrace, looking around at the twinkling lights of Tokyo. He finished his filming early today, so when Kyon called him to invite him to the fashion show he relented. He wondered back why he ended up being with Kyon again it all started with that one call last Christmas..

Flashback:

He was buried in deep sorrow, feeling so low when his phone rung again. He lifted the receiver without looking who the other party is.

“Moshi-moshi!” He answered with faked enthusiasm.

“Moshi-moshi, Kazu-chan. Merry Christmas! It’s been so long” a voice he hadn’t heard for months wake him up from his reverie.

It’s his ex-lover, Kyon-kyon. He ended up meeting with her; they have common friends who throw a party that day so they went there together. That friend is the one that introduced them together. After the party he drive her home. They talked about what happen between them how they ended up their relationship. Kyon wanted to go back to him but he’s not yet sure about his feelings with Alex. He knew he still has feeling for Kyon but he’s not sure if it’s still love or just because they have a past.

Maybe fate really was against him and Alex, why would it allow Kyon to go back to him if they are meant to be. Or maybe fate is testing him of how strong his love for Alex is or if he’s still in love with Kyon. He really is confused. He’s glad that his drama is keeping him busy barely giving him time to dwell on his love problems.

But the paparazzi are not helping him. Johnny got mad at him when his photos with Kyon came out on the first week of January. He explained that they are not back to their old relationship; it’s just that they attended the same party so they are together. And for old times sake he escorted her home. Johnny was kind enough to understand him but warn him not to be caught again; luckily it didn’t affect his drama rating, it will be too much trouble for him to handle.

Flashback end

“Kazuya, the show will start already.” Kyon called his attention. And together they walk inside and sit at their designated places.

Before the show the audience were silent until a lively sound filled the room and one by one the models started walking in the catwalk. Kame’s place was nice since he was near the ramp and he can clearly see the models faces. He recognized some Japanese models too, as he counted there are 11 models that are already done with modeling the latest collection of bags and also sunglasses, he was so absorbed observing the models so he immediately recognized the last model who went out sporting a military shorts and a black tank top she’s wearing a black Bvlgari shades and a leather belt bag. He knew that face so well “She’s here” he thought to himself. He tried pinching his arms to ensure he’s not dreaming or hallucinating but the image was clear. The model removed her glasses and he can see that he was also recognized judging by the intent look the model is giving him as well as to the woman sitting next to him. He shifted uncomfortably in his sit. Somehow that short glance Alex spared him gave a tinge of guilt inside.

Backstage

Alex immediately changed into her new attire. A black tube dress and a 4 inches stiletto shoes again she’ll be the last one to go out. She’ll be wearing the new Bvlgari B-zero watch. This time they’ll also be modeling some classic collections so the number of times they be walking in the catwalk will be doubled.

While the make-up artist is busy re-touching her make-up her mind is also flying out of the backstage back towards the audience seats particularly to the couple sitting right behind her mom and brother. Nic signaled her the second she walked in the runway, that Kame was there. She’s glad that the sunglasses covered the surprise in her eyes but when she removed them she can’t help but look at Kame directly. She also felt guilty of not contacting him when she arrived in Tokyo.

“Alex your next..”

The run for the watch collection was done. It’s now time to model the Jewelry collections. The other models will showcase various sets from previous collections and Alex, as the main model will be wearing Bulgari-Bulgari design, a collection is a fashionable mix of 18kt white gold combined with onyx and mother pearl with pave diamonds. The design was catchy and modern as well as the Valentino black Silk Organza Gown that she is wearing.

The second set she’ll be sporting Elisia with Diamonds collection a combination of white gold and brilliant cut diamonds. To compliment the gorgeous set she was dressed in a revealing yet elegant red-haltered gown with a low-cut back making it impossible to wear bra. The dress was unadorned making the diamonds stand out the most, matching her gray orbs. Her hair was pulled up in a bun-style with few stray strands making her look more seductive.

She elegantly walked in the runway, she can see the admiration in the spectators’ eyes, and even Mr. Piantella gave her thumbs up sign. She turned her attention to her family making her also caught a glimpse on the man behind them who is busy staring at her.

She was glad that she was very well trained and was able to cover-up her nervousness being the main model gave her so much pressure. Furthermore, a certain person made her nerves edgy. Of all people, why does he have to be here and seeing the woman next to him was making her heart ache.

As a highlight of the whole fashion show the 6 models from Europe was given the chance to model the vintage museum jewels that symbolizes the evolution of Bvlgari.

Finally, after the nerve-cracking show, Alex walked down the aisle with Bvlgari’s CEO Francesco Trapani who arrived yesterday to participate in the launch and press conference.

After the closing the show everybody is invited for the buffet dinner and to view the jewelries that are returned to their respective glass cases. The models stepped out of

Their runway gowns and dressed on their own attires except for Alex who still wear the red gown she wore earlier. It’s a Versace gown her dad and aunt gave her last Christmas.

Alex and her co-models mingle more with the Japanese models, who introduced them to some guests that they know. She glanced around the room to see where her mom and brother are, she saw them talking with Mr. Piantella.

She’s busy conversing with Michel, that she didn’t hear Ellie-chan called someone from the buffet table.

“Guys, I want you to meet one of Japan’s top idol, Kamenashi Kazuya.”

“Hi! Congratulations on your show!” he greeted her friends in polite English.

“Hi! It’s nice meeting you. You can speak English too?” Cleo asked.

“A little.” Kame answered

“Our friend here, Alex, she knew Japanese, that’s why it’s easy for us to communicate with Ellie-chan and the others.”

“Alex, it’s been a while” Kame greeted Alex who was trying to ignore his presence by talking with Michel.

“Kamenashi-kun, o sashiburi.”

“You know each other?!” Marti exclaimed

“Yeah, we met in Maldives a few months ago”

“Wow, small world isn’t it?”

“Yeah. A-no, Alex can we talk?”

Alex heart is beating so hard, but she nod in agreement.

They moved further in the room, near the terrace where there are few people.

“Aren’t you with someone?”

“Yes, she’s talking with one of her acquaintance.”

“Is it okay to leave her like that?”

“It’s okay since we both know some people who also came here. And it’s normal to mingle with others too.”

“So why did you bring me here?”

“Why Alex? Why didn’t you call me when you arrived here? Why didn’t you call me again after that call last Christmas?”

“Kazu, isn’t the answer obvious?”

“Huh, I can’t understand”

“Let me be blunt then, why would I communicate with someone who already have gotten back with his ex-girlfriend.

“Let me-“

“no, let me finish. I’ll be honest, it’s my fault too, I let you hang when we separate last time. I didn’t tell you what I really feel. That time, I knew I love you. I learn to love you even with just a week of knowing each other. But I’m not sure that time. I called you last Christmas hoping to speak with you but it seems like fate is against us. I called my brother to ask about you I learned that you got back together with your girlfriend. Don’t you think it’s reason enough to avoid you?”

“But we’re not together again.”

“So, why are you with her now? I knew what those paparazzi would bring you. Didn’t you get punished because of those photos? And you risked attending here with her, with all the media that’s present? Doesn’t it prove something? You’re willing to take the risk just to be with her.”

“Alex, I can’t say no to her and I also want to see this fashion show. I don’t know but there’s a voice telling me to go and attend even when it means attending with her.”

“Kazu, I’ll tell you honestly, when I read the story I was hurt. But I still I don’t want to believe it. I still cling to the words you gave me in the airport. Seeing you with her now, I honestly, don’t know anymore. I’m lost.”

Alex tears are welling up but she tried hard to prevent them from falling.

“Kazuya, who are you with?” a feminine voice called out to Kame.

“I’m with ..”

“Oh, you knew her, the main model of the show? By the way, I’m Kyon-kyon.”

“Hi! Nice to meet you, I’m Alexia Andreas” Bowing to the woman.

“Oneechan! You’re there. I’ve been looking for you. Mr. Trapani is looking for you.”

“Kyon-kyon-san, Kamenashi-kun if you’ll excuse me.”

She walked away with her brother assisting her.

After talking with the CEO she bid her friends goodbye since she’s not feeling well. She left with her brother and mom, they return to her suite in the hotel to get her things and checkout. She wanted to be with her family. They’re waiting for their car in the lobby, when Alex suddenly felt like she’s fainting. As instinct urges her, she grabbed her brother’s arm then everything went black.

After Alex left them, Kame and Kyon-kyon stayed for a while. Soon after they left together. Kame knew that Alex is already gone, he saw her leave with her he assumed brother and Mother. He just drive Kyon-kyon at her building bid her goodbye without getting out of the car. Suddenly, he felt drained so he just told Kyon-kyon that he’s tired have an early work the next day. But before Kyon-kyon, step-out of the car she asked him “That girl Alex, who is she in your life Kazuya? Is she the reason you’re not willing to get back with me?”

He answered softly, “Alex is the person I met in Maldives, and we spent the whole week together. She’s nothing got to do between us.”

“Kazu-chan, let me tell you this. I don’t feel she’s just nothing. Someday you will have to choose. Oyasumi. Jaa ne” with that Kyon stepped out of the car and gently close the door leaving Kame lost for words.

With a heavy sigh, Kame drive heading towards his own apartment.

Title: Holding on To Love

Genre: Fluff & Angst

Rating:            General

Sequel to Strangers in love

A/N : Purely fruits of my imagination. JE is oceans away from me meaning I don’t own them. Dedicated to my friend Lia

Summary: It hurts to love and let go of love specially when a great part of you left with the one who holds your heart. What would you do when you realize that that person left you a seed is growing inside of you? But still, fate was against you meeting your love, would you go against fate or just let it decide for you. Because you can never know what fate has store for you.

The wind is chilly; it’s 2 o’clock in the morning after all. Kazuya Kamenashi is resting his tired back against the cold walls of the studio where he is shooting his new drama. The pilot episode has already aired and it rated very well, this season’s highest among other winter dramas. He is working hard to show his appreciation to all the people who continuously support him and the other casts, even if it would mean lesser sleep and rest. Since his return from Maldives almost one month ago, he was in the drama set everyday, if not, he was attending KAT-TUN meetings and also rehearsals for the coming countdown at the end of the year. He is so busy with all his schedules but it doesn’t mean he has forgotten his Greek “lover”. Like now, he’s thinking about her again. Thinking what’s she’s doing right now, is she asleep or still busy posing in front of the camera or is she dating someone already? That last thought punch a hole in his chest. They didn’t really have that so-called boyfriend/girlfriend relationship, well, he did sort-of confess to her, if you can call “I think I’m fallen in love with you” a confession. “Ah, so lame, Kamenashi!” He scolded himself so many times already. Every time he recall that last scene in the Male International Airport, he can’t help but feel miserable. His thoughts are full of “what ifs and “if only”. He really doubt if Alex will come here to Japan. Maybe she will but just to visit her mom and brother. And he can’t follow her to London or Greece, he didn’t have the luxury of time and the fact that she didn’t give her calling card make things next to impossible. He didn’t even know what brand of jewelry she’s modeling for. If only he asked her maybe she could have told him. He was so afraid of getting too close to someone, that when he realized that he’d fallen to that someone he knew nothing about except for the name and a few stuff about her. He knew how she feels about things, he somewhat learn her mannerisms but the important facts that can help him trace her was unknown to him. Still, that one week he spent in her company was one of the best times that happen in his life.

He was lost in his own world that he didn’t immediately hear the director calling his attention. With a worn-out sigh, he went back to the studio to finish this day’s last scene.

Fate is so cruel. Why did it allow him to fall in love only to let go of it in the end? Onegai, give me one more chance to find that love I lost.

Hotel Bulgari in Milan, Italy, a lone figure lay exhausted at the queen-sized bed. Tired from all the photo sessions she did the whole day. But she’s grateful at the same time, those strenuous jobs give her lesser time to dwell on her sorrows. She’s really a coward when it comes to love. So afraid of telling what she really feels inside up-front the one she love. The tears are threatening to fall again. It’s been one month. One month after her bittersweet separation from her weeklong liaison. The shortest she had but the most joyous of all. Kazuya Kamenashi somehow or another healed her heart that is wary of all the betrayals of her previous relationships. If only she told him she love him too before she let go of his hands maybe things would have been different, she consoled herself. Deep inside she knew things would not be different they have their own lives to go back to. They have responsibilities waiting for them to fulfill. For now, she has to do all the jobs lined up for her in the next 7days and then she’ll fly to Greece to take care of her shop and spend Christmas with her family. Life has been unfair to both of them but they have to go on. Someday they’ll meet again. She knew in her heart she has the ability to find him, she knew his name and even his number, as he said his band is quite famous, her brother must have heard of them (only she didn’t know the name of the band). She didn’t have the courage to ask her brother yet. Not yet. She still has qualms inside her heart.

After all her duties in Italy, she went back to Greece.

“Eve, how are things here?” she asked her cousin when she entered her backroom office inside her shop.

“Just fine. But our patrons are looking for you. They left gifts for your birthday as well. I already have them boxed it’s in your house in Kiffisia. Haven’t you seen it?”

“Oh. So they are gifts. I’ve seen the box but haven’t got the chance to open it. I just returned last night remember.”

“Yeah, I know. So how’s your vacation? It’s been one-month already and I only see you now? Your manager is working you hard. And to think it’s already the 24^th of December, Christmas Eve. ” Eve scolded her shaking her head.

“The vacation was great. Super-duper. “ She said with fake gusto.

“Oh really?! But why do your eyes say the opposite. In case you’ve forgotten my dear cousin you’ve always been easy to read, well, as far as I’m concern. I’m your best friend remember so I know almost everything about you. And I can clearly see that gloomy aura around you. So what happen?”

“Eve, I don’t want to talk about it now. That 1 month you didn’t see me I was so busy with all my commitments. It’s only now that I really have the time to really mull over everything.”

“So you set aside your dilemma and drown yourself with work. That’s why you look so frail. You’re skinnier than I last saw you. Have you been eating properly?”

“Hmm.. I’ve been eating. But lately I feel kind of tired and weary.”

“Maybe you should have yourself checked-up. You don’t want to be falling in the middle of the runway because you’re not doing good.”

“Its just over-fatigue. I’ll just rest for a few days before going back to London for the launch of Bvlgari’s new jewelry collection.”

“And I thought your work there is over.”

“Supposed to be when I return, the London end of Bvlgari, will handle the shoots but their main office in Italy took the job from them so they can concentrate on the launching program. So in the end I spend almost 1 month in Italy.”

Just then her hand phone ring, she excused herself from her cousin and answer her call. “Yes, George?” Her manager.

“Alex, we have a change of plan. Bvlgari’s launching will be postponed until the middle of January. And the venue will change as well.”

“Okay. So at least I can spend my Christmas and New Year without thinking of work. That’s fine with me. So when will it be?”

“January 15^th. And guess where?”

“Where Italy again? Or here in Greece?”

“Nope, I guess you’ll be visiting your mom sooner than you planned. It will be in Tokyo.”

“Ow.”

“Hey, aren’t you happy? You’ll have the chance to visit your mom again. You’ve been pining to do that.”

“So when are we going there?”

“Well January 7, the models’ wardrobe will be done there. They told me that the Japanese market is getting bigger so the event was moved there. The Japanese-side saw your photos and learned of your Japanese background so they want you to be the main model. One of your photos will be posted in their Ginza store.” Her manager squealed in her ears.

“So who’s going with me?” she asked with a nervous voice. “I’m going to Japan, is fate playing with me?”

“Selena, Cleo, Marti for girls. The guys are only Gustav and Michel. The other models will be Japan’s supermodels.”

“George, while we’re there I want to stay in my mom’s house. So don’t make arrangements on my hotel accommodation. And can you make sure that I don’t have other work after that, I may extend my stay”

“Got it. I think it’s just your modeling stunt for Chloe that is left on all your commitments, I’ll move it on later date” he informed her.

“I’ll be back in London after New Year maybe on the 4th. I’ll keep in touch. I already have my visa so just grab me the plane ticket. Thank you George as always.”

“You’re my number 1 model and of course one of my closest friend. I’ll see you in January and don’t forget my Christmas present. Merry Christmas dear.”

“I won’t. Merry Christmas, too. Bye-bye.”

Eve and Alex went home after closing the shop at 6 pm. There are many customers doing some last minute shopping. They’ll be spending Christmas Eve together with their kinfolk. It will be a sort-of reunion to Andreas’ family. It’s the only time in the year that most of their relatives get together. They just rest for one hour and dress to go to her father’s mansion in Drosia. She’ll sure hear a lot from her father after her runaway act on her birthday.

Katarina, her stepmother, is already waiting for them at the patio when she reached their driveway.

“Alexia, my dear!”

“Hi Auntie! Merry Christmas!” Alex greeted her stepmother.

“Merry Christmas dear. Eve, merry Christmas too, Alex, run along your dad is waiting for you in the study.”

“Oh, I will be hearing his sermons again.” She rolled her eyes.

“Dear, you can’t fault your dad on that. You run away and cut contact with us for almost a month. And we missed your birthday.” Katarina pouted her red-painted lips at her stepdaughter.

“Sorry. It’s just I acted in my own whim. Sorry for worrying you.” She hugged Katarina.

“I understand you. But your father is really stubborn just like you. So I’m sure you’ll be explaining a lot. Next time, don’t do it again okay.”

She just nodded at her step mom, because she can’t promise it won’t happen again.

“I’ll go to the study now. See you. Eve, when you see the butler, please tell him to haul the gifts from the car. I’m sure our cousins’ children will be asking you where their gifts are.” With that she tossed her car keys to Eve and strode of to the study.

She knocked and after hearing her father’s approval, she stepped inside.

“Hi dad! Merry Christmas!”

“Cherié, Merry Christmas too. So how are you now? When did you get back from Italy?”

“Last night. I took the last flight going home. I can’t miss the holidays with you when last year I spend it with mom.”

“Don’t get smart at me lady, I can’t forget that you run off from us on your birthday.” Her father’s tone was soft but there’s hurt in it.

“Sorry. It’s just that I don’t feel like partying and you know, I don’t want you matching me with the sons of your comrades.”

“Yuna Alexia, it’s not reason enough to run away like that and not tell us where you are. I even asked your mom where you are.”

“You called mom? Of course I won’t go there, dad. I know it’s the first place you’ll search for me. And I run away, runaways don’t tell their whereabouts.” She’s trying to ease her dad’s irritation but it seems to irritate him more.

“Stop joking around. You’re really a stubborn kid. I don’t know where you got that streak of yours.”

“I got it from you. Everybody will tell you that. Before we end up quarreling for real, I’m sorry. I just went to Maldives for a week. I celebrated my birthday there with my friends from there and with the other guests as well. I stayed in Royal Islands; they give me a small party during my birthday. After Maldives I went back to London for my Bvlgari meeting. Then after 2 days I went to Italy, well the rest you know already. My schedule is so full that I barely have time to myself. I’m sorry really. But I don’t regret running away. In the islands I found the peace I’m looking for.”

“Oh, so you don’t have peace here. And you choose to celebrate with strangers than us your family. I would have understood if you spend it with your mom and brother. Regarding your modeling I already told you to quit. You can earn as much money in your business and you can manage one of our businesses if you like. And you have your allowance from your fund even with just that you can afford to live like a princess"

“Dad, modeling is fun. I got to be the one to first wear those limited edition collections. And I didn’t renew contract with my other employers. I mostly work with Bvlgari and sometimes with Chloe; I don’t have that much project. It’s only some time in a year that I get busy.”

“If just wearing those jewelries and watches, you can always buy them. But your health is important too. Look at you, so skinny. You need a husband to fill you up. And tie you in one place.”

“Here we go again. I don’t want to marry yet. I’m only 24 I want to be on my own first. And besides I won’t marry someone I don’t love. And dad, a husband cannot solve my being slim. I’ve always been this way. Can’t you give a little time to be single first?”

“But …”

“There is no but dad. When I meet a guy who will love me for who I am, not how much is my net worth I’ll marry him right away.” “I think found him already but I let him slip away.” She thought to herself.

“Well, if that’s what you like. But promise me you’ll get married before you turn 27. “

“Let’s see. You know I’m not the type to make promises because I don’t want to end up breaking them. Dad, we don’t know when I’ll meet my fated love so there’s so way you can predict a time limit for me.”

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever. I give up.”

Alex gave a sigh of relief she knew her father can never really get mad at her for so long.

“So dad, did you call Nic already? It’s Christmas there already.”

“He already called 2 hours ago. He can’t get through your office line so he called here instead. But you’re not yet around so I talked to him myself. Oh, he’s asking if you already listen to your new CD.”

“I’ll call him later. Let me just greet our relatives. I’ll go ahead.”

After rubbing elbows with her relatives she decided to call her mom and brother. They sure are waiting for her call because after one ring the other line picked up.

“Moshi-moshi” her brother answered the phone

“Moshi-moshi! Otouto!” she greeted her brother in Japanese.

“Onee-chan! How are you? Dad told me you ran away on your birthday?”

“Shut up Nick. I’ve already heard all I need to hear from dad. I don’t want to hear anymore from you.”

“Whatever. Where’s my gift?”

“Merry Christmas too. You’re so dumb-assed asking gift when you haven’t greeted me yet.”

“Gomen, Merry Christmas. Oh, have you played the CD I gave you? I know you’ll love it. It’s the kind of music you love to listen.”

It seems that the phone was snatched from her brother because she heard him complaining as she heard her mom’s soft voice in the other line.

“My dear, Merry Christmas!”

“Mama, Merry Christmas! I miss you.”

“I miss you too, baby.”

“How are you?”

“We’re doing great. Don’t give me a scare again okay. I was really shocked when I heard from your dad. But I understand you somehow; I know you just want to be alone for a while. After what happened with that Baka-ex-boyfriend of yours. So have you found your fated man?”

“What if I told I found him, but I let him go?”

“Really! But why?”

“Mom, I’m not ready to tell you yet. But I’m coming to Japan on the 7^th of January. We have a fashion show there for the launching of Bvlgari’s Valentine collection. I’ll see you then. Maybe I’m ready to tell you the whole story. The guy is Japanese by the way.”

“Who is he then?”

“I can’t tell you yet. I know you’ll be checking him if I told you.”

“Okay. Promise me you’ll tell me when you’re ready, okay? I won’t send your Christmas gift anymore I’ll just wait for you here.”

“Yes, that I can promise you. Please tell Nic I’ll just bring his gift myself. I didn’t get the chance to send your gifts because I’m so busy.”

“I’ll see you then. Please send our greetings to everybody there. Tell them we’re missing them.”

“Yeah I will. Greet Gramps and Gram for me. Bye-bye.

Christmas eve in Ueda’s family mansion,

“Kame. Kame. KAAMMEE!!!! Jin attempted to get the attention of his best friend.

“You’re calling me?”

“Are there anybody else here? Why are you so far away?”

“I’m not far, I’m sitting beside you can’t you see?’

“Ha-ha-ha, Funny. Kame, I’m the idiot of this group so don’t take my throne away from me okay. What’s your problem man? I heard from your co-stars that you’ve been like that since you came back from your vacation. Man, you’re the only person who came from a vacation looking like that. You look like a kid who lost his balloon.”

“You’re right I lost something I want most.”

“Something? What is it? Or maybe I should ask who is it?”

“That is Alexia Andreas. The stranger I met in Maldives. In that span of one week she occupied a special place in my heart. But then I lost her. I mean we chose to follow our own roads. Roads that will never meet”

“Kame, remember that there are also crossroads, you can never assume that you’ll never meet again. Unless she’s an alien.”

“Baka, she lives in Greece. And Japan is oceans away.”

“But still you both live in one planet. We all only have one world. One day, you’ll see her again. When you go to the temple on New Year, you can wish to cross path with her.”

“She’s a total stranger when I met her. But when I first saw her, Wow! I bet even the receptionist can hear my heartbeat. She’s really someone I feel comfortable with like a longtime friend but my heart wanted more from her. Not just friend.”

“How does she look like?”

“She’s pretty, she’s a model. Her eyes are gray, that when I look at them I can feel myself drowning in their depths. She has a long wavy black hair, full-lips. She’s the same height as me though. And she has beautiful hands and feet. “ He showed Jin her photo in his cell phone, the one they took in the airport.

“heeh, you even notice her feet.. You must have been close to her during those times? She’s beautiful I can’t blame you for having an instant attraction to her.”

“Yes, We were constant companions. The whole time I’m in Maldives I’m with her. We even have the same flight schedule going home only we have different destinations. She didn’t gave me her contact information but I gave mine to her.”

“Hearing that, I think she should be the one who’ll make the first move. Did you tell her you like her?”

“I did. I told her I love her. But she didn’t answer back she just hug me tightly.”

“But did you feel that she like you too? Maybe she didn’t respond because she’s still confused.”

“Maybe she likes me too.”

“She won’t be wasting her time with you if not.”

“I don’t want to raise my hopes high.”

“Did something happen between the two of you?”

“Yes. The last night we’re together. The attraction has always been sparking between us but it was until that night that we gave in to our desires.”

“Wow. You’re fast!”

“You’re the one to talk after what you did to Zoe-chan on your first meeting.”

“Leave me out of this. I’m trying to help you man.”

“Sorry. I’m just really sad. It’s Christmas you know. You’ll be spending yours with Zoe and the others they’ll spend with their girlfriends. I’m alone.”

“Baka. Oh yes, I remember last time who spend it with Kyon-kyon and I spend mine alone. We’re even. Speaking of Kyon, this mean you’ve moved on?”

“Kyon, I think I have but I can’t say she’s out of my life completely. I mean we’ve been together for 2 years and those years she’s occupied the biggest part of me. It hurts a lot when we ended our relationship. We’re still friends. About Alex, I don’t even know our stand. All I know is I love her and when our paths cross again I’ll definitely ask her to stay with me.”

“That’s the Kame I know. Fight for your love. If you’re meant to be I’m sure your roads will cross someday. You can never tell.”

“I wish she’ll visit her family here. She’s half-Japanese. Her parents are divorced. Her mom is Japanese so she moved back here from Greece. Sadly, I didn’t even know her name so I can’t track her. I just have to wait for her to contact me. But I hope she’ll come here soon I don’t know if I can wait that long, I’m not even sure if there is something I should be waiting for.”

“Ganbatte Kame! Be strong and be sure what you really feel for her. Regarding Kyon think about it because if you really love Alex now she deserves to have your love 99.99% if not you’ll end up hurting her and even yourself. Now let’s go back to the party. Zoe is probably looking for me already. I left her with Koki. I’m gonna kill that rapper if I saw him touch even her hair.”

When they went back to the party they saw Jin’s girlfriend laughing at what koki might be telling her. Koki’s hands are in her shoulders. When he looked back at Jin he can see that “dangerous glint” in Jin’s eyes. Poor Koki, he smiled to himself. Tonight he decided to enjoy with his friends when he goes home he’s sure to be thinking of Alex again.

After the party he went with Jin, Zoe & Pi to Yuu’s house and have another party there. Now he’s quite exhausted and drunk that he didn’t bother to shower before he put his tired body to bed.

Too tired and in deep slumber that he didn’t hear his home phone ring at 2 pm the next day.

On the other side of the world, Kiffisia, Greece

It’s almost 7am in the morning, she’s tired but she sleep evades her. Early this morning, when she came home from the party, she searched for the CD her brother gave her, The album is called “Best of KAT-TUN” she played the CD and while she’s listening to the songs, she fell in love with the melody of the song “Special Happiness” and the voice singing is familiar to her. She reached out for the CD case, so she can read the lyrics, but she got the shock of her life when her eyes caught the Album artwork. The guy really look like Kazu-chan, flipping the leaflet, it confirm her suspicions. Kamenashi Kazuya is the K of KAT-TUN.

“Oh God, are you really playing with my heart. First, the launching now this album, are these signs for me? What should I do?” she’s really confused trying to sort out the things that coming her way. “Should I call him?

Gathering all the courage she has, she dialed his home number first hoping that he is at home. It’s Christmas after all. She look at her clock, it’s 2 pm in Japan already

“Hi! Kamenashi Kazuya here. I’m not around to pick up your call. Please leave your message and contact number after the beep.”

“A-no. Hi! Kazu-chan! Remember me? Alexia Adreas here. How are you doing? Well, seems like you’re not around. I just want to greet you Merry Christmas! So hm.. That’s it bye-bye!”

When Kame woke up at 2:30 pm, he saw the blinking of his answering machine. Thinking that his parents are trying to contact him, he played the messages while sitting down deciding what he’ll do for the rest of the day. His shooting won’t start until tomorrow at 6 am so he has time for himself.

His mom’s voice was the first he heard

“Kazu, are going to visit us tomorrow? How are you? Eat properly ne. Otousan and I will visit Obachan and Ojisan on the 27^th. Give us a call when you’re free so you can come with us to visit them. Merry Christmas ne. Bye-bye”

“Kame! Jin desu! Stop moping okay! If you have time visit us tomorrow morning. I’m in Zoe’s house.”

Bakanishi, Arigatou!

The last message is not what he expected he’d hear. If only he woke up 30 minutes earlier

“A-no. Hi! Kazu-chan! Remember me? Alexia Adreas here. How are you doing? Well, seems like you’re not around. I just want to greet you Merry Christmas! So hm.. That’s it bye-bye!”

“She called! Why wasn’t I awake that time. Shit! Number!” Kame desperately tried to retrieve the number but the in the caller ID states “unknown”.

He was buried in deep sorrow, feeling so low when his phone rung again. He lifted the receiver without looking who the other party is.

“Moshi-moshi!” He answered with faked enthusiasm.

“Moshi-moshi, Kazu-chan. Merry Christmas! It’s been so long” a voice he hadn’t heard for months wake him up from his reverie.

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A/N : i cut it in 4 parts it's a long fic .. i hope you won't get bored reading.