Bounded by Secrets

"A Fragile Return"?

Tears welled up in Mayumi's eyes as she shouted, "Of course it matters! But so does the way they treat me! They constantly restrict me, compare my leadership to Jack's, and judge me against my twin. They question why I fall in love, as if I'm not allowed to feel. During practice, Mr. Ayumu questioned my dedication when I lost to a kung fu master-he didn't know I was on my period. And that day, Ren and Jack just mocked me for it. They don't understand!"

She took a shaky breath, her voice barely above a whisper. "I was under so much pressure I could barely eat, and Mr. Hiroto complained to Dad, who scolded me harshly. Whenever I spend time with Jack, Dad taunts me about being in love... And the trauma I endured on that mission... it still haunts me. I get nightmares, Kaki. That day when Mr. Ayumu was counting, I wanted to speak, but my tears wouldn't let me."

Kaki listened intently, his heart aching for his sister's pain. After a long pause, he spoke softly but firmly. "I understand your pain, Mayumi. But you're my sister. You saved me once, and now it's my turn to save you. Even if I have to drag you back myself."

Before she could protest, he scooped her up and hoisted her onto his shoulder. She struggled, biting his arm, but he chuckled, unfazed. "Nice try, brat. That doesn't even hurt." Smiling, he carried her to his car, gently placing her inside before getting behind the wheel and driving off, determined to bring her home.

---
Kaki brings Mayumi to the training grounds at the headquarters, where the trainees are fully immersed in a rigorous practice session under Joseph's watchful eye. Without hesitation, Kaki nudges her forward, pushing her onto the stage mid-session, just as Joseph is addressing the group.

Mayumi clears her throat softly, "Sir..." Her voice trembles slightly, but it's filled with determination.

Joseph turns, startled by the voice he hasn't heard in so long. His expression shifts from shock to a deep, unguarded joy. "Mayumi?" he whispers, barely believing his eyes.

The crowd falls silent at first, but then, like a wave, voices begin to rise, chanting her name, "Mayumi! Mayumi! Mayumi!"

Joseph raises his hand, signaling the crowd to calm down, and quickly strides over to her. Taking her gently by the shoulders, he leads her to a quieter corner, away from the curious eyes and murmurs. His eyes, softened by a fatherly warmth, search hers with unspoken questions. "I'm so glad you returned, my dear," he says, his voice catching. "Where have you been all this time?"

Mayumi shifts nervously, looking down as memories of her struggles flash in her mind. "Sir, I think... we should save that talk for dinner. It's a lot to explain," she replies, trying to keep her voice steady. Then, with a small, hesitant smile, she adds, "But, being back here... I'd first love to have my job back. Do you think you could help me with that?"

Joseph nods, chuckling lightly at her formality. "You don't need to call me 'sir,' Mayumi. And of course, I'll help you."

Her expression shifts to one of concern, and she fidgets, rubbing her hands together. "But... I need you to come with me to Mr. Ren's office. You know how scared I am of him," she admits, her voice faltering a bit. "Especially after the way I left... he's bound to be angry. And Mr. Ayumu... I doubt he'll ever take me off the blacklist."

Joseph places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "I'll be with you every step of the way, Mayumi. They may be strict, but they know your worth. And as for Ayumu... well, he may have a hard shell, but even he can be convinced."

Taking a deep breath, Mayumi nods, feeling a renewed sense of courage with her father by her side. Together, they turn towards Ren's office, ready to face the challenges ahead.

As Mayumi stepped into Ren's office, she braced herself, knowing Ren's trademark taunts were bound to be relentless. The moment he looked up and saw her, his expression turned into one of mild amusement.