The events that had transpired today left Sakura drained, and it wasn't the end of day, leaving her yearning for a moment of peace. The sheer size and grandeur of the mansion, with its sleek lines, towering columns, and expansive glass windows, usually brought her a sense of pride and accomplishment. But today, it felt like just another reminder of the responsibilities and burdens she carried.
As she made her way through the mansion's expansive halls, her footsteps echoed softly againts the polished wooden floors. The bright midday sun filtered through the large windows, casting a warm glow that should have been comforting but felt distant given her turmoil.
Sakura's mind wandered to the events of the day, her thoughts a tumultuous mix of frustration, worry and determination. She had to protect Ray, the one she loved the most, and keep Risa away from him, uncover the real identity and background of Risa Rourke, all while maintaining the facade of calm and control that was expected of her.
Approaching the living room, Sakura heard the sounds of laughter and splashing water coming from outside. Her curiosity piqued, she diverted her path toward the large glass doors leading to the backyard. Stepping through them, she was greeted by the sight of their expansive and large swimming pool, its crystal clear waters shimmering under the midday sun.
Reina, her eldest daughter, was there by the poolside with a group of people, her friends probably. Mostly girls, with a couple of boys among them.
They were drinking liquor, eating various foods spread out on elegant trays, and enjoying the warm afternoon. The scene was a stark contrast to heavy atmosphere Sakura had been dealing earlier.
Reina noticed her mother's presence and immediately stood up.
"Okasan." She said softly.
"You're home early? She asked her mother.
Then, Reina noticed her mother's weariness and tensed on her face.
"Are you okay? You look tired and tensed." She asked again, her voice filled with warmth and concern.
Sakura's eyes softened at the sight of her daughter, but she maintained her composed exterior.
"Sweetie, I'm okay." Sakura smiled softly.
"It's just there are many matters that require my attention." She added, her soft smile unwavering.
Reina walked over to her mother, her concern evident.
"You need to take care yourself, Okasan. We can't afford to have you burning out." Reina said, her voice was sweet and gentle.
Reina's friends, seeing the interaction, approached as well. One of the boys, who hadn't realized who Reina's mother was, stared at Sakura in awe.
"Is that really her? The glamorous and famous supermodel, Sakura Himura?" He nudged his friend and whispered.
"Yes, this is my Okasan." Reina smiled, a hint of confidence in her voice.
The boys' eyes widened, their expressions shifting to admiration and infatuation. They were instantly enamored by Sakura's glamorizing and ethereal beauty, her hypnotic charm, and her heavenly and perfect body. Her glowing, angelic complexion seemed almost otherworldly in the bright daylight.
"Wow!" They expressed in awe, captured by Sakura's beauty and elegance.
"It's an honor to meet you, Sakura-sama. You're even more stunning in person." One of the boys managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper.
Sakura gave a polite nod, used to such reactions but still finding it somewhat amusing.
"Thank you. It's nice to meet all of you." Sakura gratefully greeted them, her face friendly and warm.
Another one of the boys, a tall, handsome, young man with a confident air, decided to seize the moment. He stepped forward with a subtle yet bold smile.
"Sakura-sama, you must tell us the secret to your eternal youth and beauty. You make us mere mortals pale in comparison." The same boy flirted, boldly.
There was an awkward silence as the group processed his attempt at flirtation.
Sakura, however, found the situation entertaining. She let out a sexy, melodious laugh that seemed to captivate everyone present.
"You flatter me." She said, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
"But I'm afraid there's no secret, just a lot of hard work and good genes." She added, humbly.
"Well, whatever it is, it definitely works." The boy said, blushing and scratching the back of his head awkwardly.
Not deterred by his initial awkwardness, the boy tried to go all out and used all of his boldness and charm.
"Sakura-sama, would it be too forward for me to ask for your number? I'd love to talk more, maybe get some tips on staying youthful." The boy persisted.
Sakura's smile faded slightly, feeling uncomfortable with his approach and persistence.
"I'm afraid I can't give you my number, I have someone I love truly and eternally." She rejected him firmly, her composure maintained.
The boy's expression faltered, but he still persisted.
"Oh, come on, Sakura-sama, just a number. It doesn't have to be anything serious." He pressed on.
"That's enough, Kaito. My Okasan said no." Reina stepped in, sensing her mother's discomfort.
"Arigato, Reina-chan. Kaito, I appreciate the compliment, but I must decline." Sakura rejected him.
Reina's friends exchanged curios glances.
"Who do you think she loves so deeply?" One of the girls whispered.
"Maybe her husband whom she loves so deeply." One of the girls answered.
Sakura didn't confirm nor deny it, her expression enigmatic. She didn't want to reveal who she truly, deeply and eternally loves to them, especially to her three daughters.
"Some things are best kept private." She said softly, casting a meaningful look at them.