The Marino family gathered around the dinner table, enjoying a tranquil meal together. They indulged in thick and juicy tomahawk steaks, accompanied by refreshing glasses of soda and sides of potatoes. As Karl quietly cut into his steak, he fixed an intense gaze on his son. "I have heard about your altercation with Armand Almeida's son," Karl remarked sternly.
"I did," Rafael calmly responded, munching a slice of steak.
"Do you know that because of what you've done, I've been under scrutiny again?" said Karl. "Should I care about that?" Rafael asked nonchalantly.
"This talk doesn't make any sense at all. You'll be leaving for Tokyo tomorrow night," Karl stated matter-of-factly. Rafael raised his eyebrows and glanced at his father inquisitively.
"What will I do there?" Karl let out an exasperated sigh as he walked out of the dining area. "Anything where you will not be a nuisance to me." The next day, on a sunny summer day in Tokyo, Rafael arrived at the airport. Waiting for him was a slim middle-aged man who greeted him warmly.
"How do you do, Rafael Marino?" the middle-aged man inquired.
"I am Akira Shida." "Pleased to make your acquaintance," responded Rafael as they entered a sedan.
"Where are we headed?" he questioned Akira curiously.
"Madam Takako has arranged for an apartment close to my store where both of your younger sisters currently reside," replied Akira informatively.
"It's been quite some time since I last saw my younger sisters," reflected Rafael. "Jasmine paid us a visit but returned here afterwards."
Rafael arrived at a modest apartment near Akira's small Izakaya restaurant. The young man looked up at the sky and positioned himself in front of his new dwelling place.
"Your father used to stay here while he was still pursuing his studies," remarked Akira thoughtfully.
"I had no idea that he still possessed the desire to further his education," quipped Rafael when two women approached him eagerly.
"Oni-san, have you just arrived?" asked one of them politely.
"Yeah Rina," Rafael answered, it was one of her younger sister, Rina Marino, the younger sister of Rafael, is described as a strikingly beautiful young girl with innocent looks. She shares many physical features with her older sister, such as her round drowsy eyes and bow-shaped lips. In addition to being visually appealing, Rina possesses a slender body that resembles those of her sisters. However, what sets Rina apart from the rest of the family is Karl's fondness for her; she holds the status of being his favorite child. This special position allows Rina to easily have all her requests granted by their father. Interestingly though, despite having such privilege at hand, Rina rarely takes advantage of it due to several reasons: firstly, because she was born during wartime hardships, the family business has always been a subject avoided by most members including herself. This resulted in less interaction within especially between mother and daughter.
"Oh, just to mention, let me introduce you to Sachiko," Rina said as she introduced her friend. "She happens to be my classmate."
Akira chimed in and added with pride, "And most importantly, she is my daughter." With a gentle voice, Sachiko greeted the young man named Rafael by saying, "Nice to meet you Rafael-san." Rafael replied with a smile on his face and returned the greeting by saying,
"Nice to meet you too." He then proceeded to acknowledge Akira and Sachiko courteously by bowing his head.
"We assure you that we will take good care of him as promised by your father and Madam Takako," Akira responded graciously while receiving a gesture of respect from Rafael.
---
Rafael and Rina were seated at the apartment, engaged in a discussion about recent events both locally and back home. Curiously, Rina posed a question to Rafael regarding their father's decision to exile him. Rafael replied casually while savoring his cup of tea, explaining that their father had explicitly expressed his desire not to see him anymore. Sensing some underlying motive behind this action, Rina brought up Rafael's violent altercation with Jude Almeida as a plausible explanation for their father's decision. Despite her awareness of the incident, she urged Rafael not to stir any further trouble since dealing with Takeru was already difficult enough.
"But I thought little Tako-kun is well-behaved," Rafael stated.
"Well-behaved with a strong sexual drive. We are only a few months apart in age, just like the rest of our nine siblings. Our ages differ by two years, so don't be surprised about it," Rina interrupted.
"I had no idea that Takeru-kun would have those tendencies."
"It's hereditary. Anyway, I will be visiting him tomorrow and returning on the following day, so you'll need to grab your breakfast at Akira-Sama's Izakaya downstairs."
"Where does Jasmine live?" Rafael asked curiously. "
Jasmine resides with her foster mother Rikako; she finds comfort living there. That's why I'm cautioning you against causing any trouble here," Rina answered as she headed into the kitchen to prepare their dinner.
--------
The following day, Rafael and Rina enjoyed their breakfast at the Izakaya. Meanwhile, Akira was engrossed in tidying up the counter with diligent precision. Concurrently, Sachiko dedicated herself to ensuring cleanliness by meticulously mopping the floor.
"Oji-Sama, I need to go to Sapporo and see my brother. Can you please take care of Rafael for me?" Rina informed the bar owner.
"All right, Rafael, please make yourself at home," Akira replied.
"How can I assist you, Ōji-sama?" Rafael inquired.
"I usually work as a server here during the evenings. So while I'm away, you can fill in for me," Rina suggested. "Also, after seeing me off at the train station today, you can help Sachiko with grocery shopping for the Izakaya."
After seeing off Rina at the train station, Rafael and Sachiko went grocery shopping for the Izakaya. As Sachiko selected products, Rafael pushed the cart. After a tiring day, they took a break in a nearby park and enjoyed some ice cream.
"How was your first night here?" Sachiko asked Rafael. "It's been good so far, but I am still adjusting to my new life," replied Rafael as he gazed at Sachiko.
"Is there something on my face?" asked Sachiko curiously. Without hesitation, Rafael wiped her lips with his handkerchief.
"There you go, all fixed," said Rafael with a warm smile that made Sachi blush.
"Let's head home now," hurriedly suggested Sachiko to which Rafael willingly agreed.
----
During that evening, Rafael found himself working as a waiter at the Izakaya along with Akira and Sachiko. As the hours passed, the number of guests continued to grow, all delighting in Akira's culinary creations and libations. At one point, Rafael couldn't help but notice that something was amiss between Sachiko and a male customer who persistently harassed her by grabbing her arms. With concern mounting, Akira attempted to step in and defuse the situation; unfortunately, his efforts proved unsuccessful.
"Is there a problem?" Rafael inquired of the gentleman.
The irate man retorted, "And who might you be? Is he your boyfriend, Sachiko?" Rafael responded sternly, "My identity is inconsequential. However, if you continue to intrude on our situation here, I assure you that dire consequences will follow."
Akira interjected with praise for Rafael's actions saying,"That was enough from Rafael; well done."
And then proceeded to offer comfort by patting the young man on his shoulder. Concerned about her well-being, Raphael turned to Sachiko and asked if she was okay. She nodded in affirmation before returning inside the Tavern.
A week later, Rina returned from her trip to Sapporo looking visibly tired. She met up with her brother at a local Izakaya where they had breakfast together. Rafael was curious about Takeru and asked Rina how he was doing.
Rina replied sarcastically, "He's still the same old Takeru – a baby-faced assassin. He got into some trouble with the daughter of the onsen where he was staying."
Shaking his head in disbelief, Rafael continued eating his breakfast and sipping on his juice. Reflecting on their family background, he remarked, "Well you know what they say: it's hard being a Marino or Karl Marino's child. The prestige comes with its own curse and power."
Expressing his frustrations about their father having multiple children across different families, Rafael sighed and said regretfully, "Sometimes I wish I hadn't been born as his child or never carried the name Marino."
After overhearing the conversation between the Marino children, Akira expressed a somber expression and positioned himself in front of the counter to face them. With concern apparent in his voice, he began saying, "I have something intriguing to share with you that might pique your interest. It pertains to your father."
Curiosity peaked, Rina questioned him further by asking "What is it, uncle?"
Akira continued his narrative by informing them about their father's past when he was pursuing his master's degree. He frequented this place for breakfast and dinner where Sachiko was just a young child at that time. During those tumultuous war times, Karl returned to the Philippines alongside Takako, Eikichi Fujimiya and Javier for safety measures. Based on my knowledge as a witness here at that time, They encountered numerous invaders whom they managed to eliminate successfully confiscating valuable treasures including golds and diamonds along with classified documents through looting activities. Unfortunately enough,Javier developed an insatiable greed which led him into killing Eikichi while attempting murder towards both Takako and Karl," shared Akira.
"And what transpired?" inquired Rafael.
"Karl assaulted Javier with an overwhelming force of soldiers, subjecting him to severe physical abuse," Akira responded. "Karl was determined to ensure Takako's safety above all else, while she protected both you and Riko as if you were her own siblings. It is possible that they could have forsaken their bond with Riko and entered into a marital relationship themselves; however, your father chose to remain loyal to your mother. Your father exemplified responsibility by making personal sacrifices such as skipping meals just so that you could have something to eat." After listening attentively to Akira's account, Rafael and Rina fell into a contemplative silence during breakfast—overwhelmed by feelings of shame and sorrow.
"In spite of being loved by five different women, your father remained true only to Riko without straying," added Akira before leaving the Marino children.
Later that day, Rafael and Rina indulged in a delightful picnic outing with Sachiko, where they witnessed the splendid spectacle of Cherry Blossoms blooming. Engrossed in capturing picturesque moments, all three companions were engrossed in snapping photographs. Positioned next to Rafael, Sachiko elegantly posed by the tree while Rina expertly framed their composition within her lens.
"You look good together," Rina whispered with admiration, her eyes fixed on the photo. The sincere compliment made Sachiko's cheeks flush with a subtle rosy hue again. She felt a warmth spread through her heart as memories of shared laughter and intimate moments flooded in. "Now it's time to pack up our cherished mementos and bid farewell to this place," Rina suggested gently, hinting at their departure. As they gathered their belongings, each item held sentimental value - reminders of joyous adventures and profound connections forged along their journey. Anticipation mixed with nostalgia welled up within them both as they prepared to return home. Excitement for future escapades intertwined harmoniously with fond reflections on the incredible moments they had just experienced together.
-----
After one year had elapsed, Rafael found himself perfectly acclimatized to his new life in Japan. He effortlessly assimilated into the local customs and traditions, allowing him to seamlessly integrate into Japanese society. Thanks to his fluency in speaking Japanese, he secured a job at a nearby manufacturing plant without any familial connections or assistance. On a bright sunny morning, as Akira diligently cleaned the premises of their workplace, Rafael graciously lent him a hand in repairing the Izakaya.
"Rafael, you have become really involved here," remarked Akira.
"I couldn't have accomplished it without your assistance, Ōji-Sama," Rafael expressed gratefully. "You've been like a father to me."
Akira appeared pleased by the comment and responded with gratitude.
"Sir, I have something to ask of you," Rafael said, clearing his throat.
"What is it?" an inquisitive Akira asked.
"I would like to court Sachiko," Rafael replied directly. This caused Akira to take a deep breath and sit down. "Rafael-san, please have a seat."
"Although I truly want you two to be involved romantically or even more than that, I am concerned about the potential impact on her ordinary life," expressed Akira. "You may not come from royalty or the aristocracy; nonetheless, just knowing that you are Karl Marino's son is something we must carefully consider."
"I am not my father," Rafael clarified.
"No, not like that," Akira interjected. "You are well aware of your father's identity and the responsibilities tied to your family name."
"Oji-Sama, as I mentioned before, although I am not identical to my father, I possess the ability to undertake similar actions for safeguarding those within his sphere and those he cherishes," Rafael explained confidently.
"I trust in your statement," responded Akira.
"I will be taking her out for a date this evening," Rafael mentioned, prompting Akira to assent. Shortly afterwards, Rina and Sachiko returned from their trip to the nearby supermarket where they had purchased some groceries.
"What's happening?" inquired Rina, showing her curiosity.
"Tonight I have plans for dinner with my classmates, so the Izakaya will be closed," Akira informed her.
"Rafael, Jasmine asked me to spend the night at her place, which means that I won't be around tonight," said Rina.
"This would leave me all alone here," Sachiko expressed a sense of sadness as she acknowledged the arrangements made by Rina and Akira.
"Sachiko, if you don't mind, may I extend an invitation to join me for dinner tonight?" suggested Rafael. This unexpected offer caused Sachiko's face to blush red from excitement.
"I would absolutely love that!" exclaimed an ecstatic Sachiko who then immediately dropped her grocery bags and rushed off to prepare herself for their meal together.
"Well then, until later." Rafael bid his farewell, "Don't cause any trouble now," cautioned Rina as she left him behind at the Izakaya.
------
On that particular evening, Rafael nervously awaited Sachiko's arrival outside the Izakaya, anxiously tapping away on his phone. Soon enough, Sachiko emerged from inside the establishment. Dressed with impeccable taste, she adorned a lovely pink blouse along with an equally charming skirt.
"You look absolutely radiant," complimented Rafael in awe of her appearance. Feeling slightly bashful yet appreciative of the kind words bestowed upon her, Sachiko softly responded with a simple "Thank you."
With their encounter at hand and eager to embark on their plans for the night, Rafael offered his arm as he proposed they proceed further along their way—prompting an enthusiastic nod from Sachiko.
Rafael and Sachiko dined at a fancy restaurant, indulging in delectable dishes while engaging in pleasant conversation. "Appreciate your invitation," expressed Sachiko, visibly bashful before Rafael. "This was the least I could do to acclimate myself to life in Japan," responded Rafael. "No trouble at all," replied Sachiko modestly, "I'm grateful for the opportunity to assist you with improving my English fluency."
As the conversation progressed, Rafael and Sachiko grew increasingly at ease with one another. Rafael's eyes were fixated on Sachiko as she passionately discussed her aspirations and plans for her future. Every word that escaped her lips seemed to captivate his attention - it was as though time ceased to exist in those moments. While he acknowledged Sachiko's attractiveness, he couldn't help but compare her to Kanna. In his mind, Kanna possessed a greater beauty, both in terms of physical appearance and allure. He admired Sachiko's physique, although it did not evoke the same level of intense desire that Kanna did. Physically speaking, Sachiko had round eyes which exemplified the typical Japanese complexion along with slightly misaligned teeth. Compared to Kanna's height advantage over here; nevertheless, what truly captured Rafel's heart was not merely surface-level qualities but rather something deeper-It was Saukio's innocence combined with cheerfulness that made him feel fluttering emotions once again.
After dining, the pair proceeded to visit the Tokyo Skytree where they indulged in the breathtaking view. Subsequently, they entered a nearby park and settled themselves on a bench. Sachiko expressed her satisfaction with their evening by stating,
"I really enjoyed tonight." Rafael's face lit up as he responded, "I'm glad you did," gazing intently at Sachiko. Puzzled by his expression, she questioned him with concern: "Is something wrong?"
Taking a deep breath, Rafael confessed his feelings to her: "There's something I've been contemplating for months now and it feels like this is the perfect moment."
Curiosity piqued Sachiko's interest as she eagerly inquired: "What is it?"
With sincerity resonating in his voice, Rafael finally revealed: "I have feelings for you." Suddenly overcome with emotion, Sachiko felt frozen; her cheeks flushed crimson resembling ripe tomatoes and perspiration forming on her trembling hands. Gently grasping one of them, Rafael continued staring into those enticing eyes—conveying an unmistakable passion
"Do you really mean that?" inquired Sachiko softly, averting her gaze from Rafael. "I appreciate your affection, but I believe I am undeserving of it. I lack the qualities required to be your girlfriend."
"Trust me when I say this - I vow to become the man you desire," promised Rafael. "But what about Kanna?" Sachiko hesitated, questioning Rafael's intentions.
"It is undeniable that she will always have a place in my heart," explained Rafael sincerely.
"However, for you, I will make every effort to move past our shared history."
"I'm glad that you feel the same way about me," whispered Sachiko with delight. "Ever since we first met, it has felt as though destiny intends for us to be together- like a fairytale come true."
"Do you want me to court you once again?" asked Rafael openly.
"No need; our mutual confessions are sufficient enough to seal our relationship," answered Sachiko warmly while embracing him tightly."
-----
Rafael left Sachiko at the Izakaya, saying farewell to her new partner on a youthful moonlit evening. Upon his return to his apartment, he encountered Jasmine and Rina in the living room area, engrossed in watching television.
"So, how was your date?" Inquired Jasmine as she enjoyed her cookies.
"It went well and we had a great time," responded Rafael.
"You didn't take her to any questionable places now did you?" Rina questioned mischievously, giving her brother an inquisitive look.
"I assure you I am not that kind of person, Rina," replied Rafael firmly.
"Juan Rafael! Let me warn you right now; if you dare hurt Sachiko's feelings, I won't hesitate to be the first one to confront you about it!" threatened Rina seriously.
"Don't worry so much, Rina Azalea. You know me better than anyone else. I made a promise to Ōji-Sama that I will always treat Sachiko with care and respect," reassured Rafael confidently.
Rina displayed a subtle smile and cast a judgmental look towards her brother. "Sachiko is only eighteen, still possessing an innocent mind. You, as my sibling who shares the same bloodline, or even Takeru, are both capable of being deceptive like a fox."
Jasmine interjected by expressing confusion. "I fail to see the connection you're making."
"Jasmine-nee," Rina clarified, "what I'm trying to convey is that Sachiko has a pure heart akin to crystal-clear water. It may be difficult for her to adapt within our family dynamic."
"Don't worry too much, Rina; this is just a fleeting boyfriend-girlfriend phase—not marriage," Jasmine chimed in reassuringly. "We simply hope that Rafael keeps his promise; after all promises can sometimes be broken."
---chapter end---