The rainstorm is substantial the torrential downpour has transformed the world outside into a watery abyss, forcing Mei to seek refuge in a nearby haven until the tempest subsides. She manages to get a secure place to stay until the rain subsides as she has to get home quickly or the consequences will be catastrophic. The clouds come together articulating their anger like as if an unanticipated occurrence is about to transpire.
Hirai Mansion
Inside the opulent Hirai residence, a sense of unease permeates the atmosphere. Yumi Hirai [Mei's mom] paces anxiously, her footsteps tracing endless circles around the room as worry etches her face. Aoi [Mei's sister-in-law] breaks the silence, her voice pierces the tense air "Mom, where is Mei? She should have been home by now" Yumi's brows furrows deeper response is tinged with mix of worry and fear " Her phone's gone dark no calls, no texts I have tried calling her, but she is not answering. If Hiro finds out she is late again especially today of all days the consequences will be catastrophic" Aoi tone drips with dread "I really hope this family reunion doesn't turn into a disaster" As the rain finally relents Mei hastens her steps, her anxiety escalating with every passing moment. The weight of her tardiness bores down upon her like a physical force, threatening to crush her beneath its oppressive yoke. She begins to run as fast as her legs can carry her with thoughts on her mind like ("I am so gone").Her father is simply the description of a man of principles, his presence is a reminder that he is always in control, always one step ahead. Her father's unwavering adherence to his principles is a well-known fact, and her failure to arrive home before 9: 00pm deadline would not go unpunished. She checks her phone only to see tons of missed calls from her brothers as she bouts through the rain a thought swiftly crosses her mind "today is the family reunification".Back at the Hirai Mansion Hiro descends the stairs slowly, his footsteps echoing through the grand foyer his gaze piercing like two icy needles injecting reality checks as he surveys the guests. A thin line, a barely contained smirk of satisfaction spreads across his face as he welcomes the guests "Make yourselves at home Mr. and Mrs.Hashimoto please take a sit" They obey, exchanging tense glances as they take in the lavish décor Mrs. Hashimoto breaks the silence her voice laced with forced politeness and a hint of nervousness "our son will arrive momentarily" Hiro smirk widens his eyes glinting with amusement, "Remind me… his name escapes me. We've only discussed this arrangement numerous times, yet it slips my mind" Mr. Hashimoto's jaw clenches subtly, his tone firm but polite "Takeru. His name is Takeru, Hiro-san" Hiro beams, his expression warm but insincere " Forgive my lapse – a lovely name. Takeru…a strong name for a strong man, I presume. Allow me to introduce my family while we wait for your son to arrive" His gaze sweeps the room, introducing each member with precision and a hint of pride, "over there is my wife Yumi, her beauty is still captivating after all these years... and beside her is my eldest son,Takashi and his wife Aoi- their union brought our families business ties closer together. Next to them stands Renn my second son and his wife Natsumi- her family's political influence has proven valuable. On the left, you will see Shinji my third son, and his wife Hana- her father's wealth expanded our business empire significantly. And beside them is Yoshi, my fourth son… and lastly is my daughter" Just then, a voice interrupts him "Hope am not late" Takeru enters, flashing a charming smile as he approaches his parents and Hiro. Hiro's eyes lights up "Takeru perfect timing! Take a seat beside your parents. Thankfully, you arrived I was about to introduce your future fiancée Mei" he turns and realizes Mei is absent he stands up the ground shuddering beneath his feet his eyes twists in anger as he spins around, his eyes blazing with fury " Where on earth is she? I precisely told her to arrive early" Yumi intervenes calmly," she will be here soon have patience" Hiro erupts into hysterical laughter before turning serious " how soon… let me guess you don't know" Takeru's voice remains calm and respectful, "Well she's a busy woman a renowned and reputable Fashion designer. Her dedication to her job is admirable so I will wait" Yumi smiles gratefully "Thanks you're really understanding" Hiro glares at Yumi before turning back to the visitors, attempting to salvage the situation still trying to put on the façade "if you say so then we'll wait"Meanwhile, Mei battles, hurrying towards home. Time ticks by, and the visitors grow impatient. Mrs. Hashimoto's tone turns sharp "we've been waiting an hour your daughter's nowhere to be seen. Is she like other girls who use this time to go clubbing? You are a dignified man Mr. Hirai that's why we are waiting patiently but can we say the same about your daughter? I'm sorry, but we can't stay here waiting for a blatant personality" Takashi's face reddens with anger, " Excuse me did you just say shameless personality I won't stand here while someone bad mouths her!" Mrs. Hashimoto stands firm, " As a matter of fact, we're done here. we will take our leave" Hiro rises, attempting damage control "we are sorry for the inconvenience" Mr. Hashimoto turns to leave " sorry won't make up for the time wasted Mr. Hirai" Takeru sighs heavily " I was looking forward to this alliance but maybe your daughter doesn't feel the same hence her absence" Hiro sighs " I am very sorry I will talk to her when she arrives am sure she has an explanation" Mrs. Hashimoto laughs condescendingly " and wont it be nice to hear her so-called explanation" Shinji loses control " didn't you say you are leaving please make your way out instead of insulting my sister" Mr. Hashimoto turns to leave " we are leaving already" They exit the Hirai Mansion. Mei arrives home noticing a car departing in the distance (" it seems they was a visitor and i didn't come home early dad isn't going to overlook this mistake of mine I am sure about it") she thinks inwardly her thoughts are consumed by the prospect of facing her father's ire. The missed calls of her brothers who have undoubtedly been trying to reach her only serve to heighten her trepidation.