By my Side ~ Tom Felton fanfic

Chapter 60: Apologies

Sakura was kept busy with all of them entering her room one after another that I didn't get to sit down with her alone and talk through everything.

Kazuko (her - well - step-mum) burst into tears as soon as she entered the room. Naomi and I, who were also in the room at the time, stood up and left quietly, deciding to give the family a private time.

Sakura's POV
I'll be honest, I was extremely nervous when my family came in. I hadn't spoken to them at all since the premiere. Not even through text.

'You don't understand how worried I was.' Mum said through tears as she threw her arms around me. 'How are you feeling?'

'Much better.' I smiled. 'Can't do much, though.'

'Honestly, as long as you're still alive and well, I'm fine.'

'Thank you Mum -' As soon as I said it, I hesitated.

But she only smiled gently and placed her smooth hand against my cheek. 'Blood-related or not, you're still my precious little girl.'

I tried so hard not to cry, but it failed. It came out as a terribly wrenched sob.

'I'm sorry for what I said.' I managed to say after a moment. 'I - I know it must've been difficult... keeping it from me and moreover... telling me about it but... it was - it was just... shocking and heartbreaking, her being my favourite model for so long...'

'We expected your reaction.' Junko said gently. 'But it still hurt, seeing you like that.'

'But you know she hasn't spoken to me at all, text or person. So I don't even know why she bothered with all of this...'

But I was confused when I saw the three of them glance at each other. 

'Well you see... Naomi's been handling everything. Particularly since you got more famous when you were ten.'

I couldn't believe my ears. She's been hiding this for years too?

'Wow...' Was all I could say. 'I didn't have a clue about that.'

'She has been exceptionally good with - well - keeping it from you. And also dealing with it.' Mum added with a slight laugh. 'She's a special one, that woman.'

'And that's why I love her.' I chuckled.

'That's the same with us.' Dad said. 'Kazu wanted to come, like really badly but you know how busy he is, especially at this time of the year.' He continued.

I nodded towards my knees. 'How is he?' I asked.

'He's still upset. He tries not to show it, but you can tell.'

I nodded again.

'I'm terribly sorry as well.' Dad continued and I raised my head. 'I should of been the one to tell you all of that and not Kazunari. I was responsible for everything. Your brother... I'd destroyed him than necessary. If you were - or still are - still upset with me that it wasn't me who did all the talking, the explaining, the apologising, I wouldn't blame you; you have every right to do so. But I just wanted you to know, whether you accept me, love me as a father or not, I always, always will love you and care for you. No matter what, okay?'