Chereads / Love in Bloom. / Chapter 8 - Hidden Truth

Chapter 8 - Hidden Truth

As Sakura and Natsumi stood outside Kaito's apartment, Sakura's anxiety grew. She had been investigating Kaito's family business all day, uncovering disturbing ties to shady organizations. The mysterious message still lingered in her mind, fueling her doubts about Kaito's sincerity. Natsumi's discovery of financial records and business deals only added to Sakura's unease.

Sakura took a deep breath, steeling herself for the confrontation. She had to know the truth about Kaito's past and his family's business dealings. Natsumi nodded in encouragement, her eyes locked on Sakura's. Together, they knocked on the door. Kaito answered, his expression guarded.

"Sakura, what's going on?" Kaito asked, his voice cautious.

Sakura handed him the folder containing the financial records and business deals. "Explain this," she demanded, her voice firm.

Kaito's eyes scanned the documents, his face darkening. "Where did you get this?" he asked, his tone defensive.

"Natsumi found it," Sakura replied. "Now, tell me the truth."

Kaito hesitated, his eyes darting between Sakura and Natsumi. "Come in," he said finally.

As they entered, Sakura's eyes scanned the apartment. It was neat and tidy, but she sensed a hidden tension. Kaito gestured for them to sit.

"I'll tell you everything," Kaito began. "But you have to promise to listen with an open mind."

Sakura nodded, her heart pounding. "I'll listen."

Kaito took a deep breath. "My family's business...it's complicated. Father's associates...they're not good people."

Sakura's eyes narrowed. "What do you mean?"

Kaito's expression turned grim. "They're involved in some shady dealings. But I've been trying to distance myself."

Natsumi leaned forward. "Why didn't you tell Sakura?"

Kaito's eyes locked onto Sakura's. "I didn't want to hurt you. I didn't want you to think less of me."

Sakura's heart twisted. She saw the pain in Kaito's eyes, the sincerity.

"Kaito, I need to know more," Sakura said.

Kaito nodded. "I'll tell you everything. Just promise me one thing."

"What?" Sakura asked.

Kaito's voice dropped. "Promise me you'll trust me."