The Girl Nextdoor

Chapter 2.5: The Rising Star

A week has passed since then. The investigation Shiro and I conducted have progressed quite a lot. As our investigation went on we came to know that the killer was well-adversed in martial arts and we came to suspect that this person has been connected to a past incident that is similar to Yuki's case.

At any rate, the main thing I need to watch out for is not falling for Shiro's possible trap. Apart from that guy whom I suspected to be Yuki's killer, Shiro is the only person I know who is capable of doing such a job.

That was the reason why I grabbed his hand with a certain amount of strength. Implying he is one of my suspect for killing Yuki.

I can't fully trust his words as of the moment. That's why I need to be cautious when dealing with his questions.

How ironic...

"Kiyotaka," a voice called out to me, dragging me out of my thoughts and inner conflicts.

I turned my head to the side and saw my step father.

"Yes?"

"I have a favor to ask you if that's fine."

"Sure. As long as it's within my capabilities, I will accept it, Father," I told him.

My step father scratched his head awkwardly and sat in front of me. But first, he handed me a drink to which I accepted and took a sip.

Sweet.

"How should I say this..." he murmured as he watched me take another sip from the drink. "Is it alright if you become our model just for this new product we will be launching soon?"

"Model?"

"Ah, yes," Father nodded. "And you see, the company's budget for hiring a model had dropped ever since Ayase-san's death who was one of the top financiers. I was thinking maybe you could do it. While the pay we can offer you may not be as high as other models, it's still pretty high compared to what other teenagers make in their part time job. And with your sex appeal, I am certain we can attract more customers. Of course, I wouldn't hold a grudge against you if you refuse. Nothing personal; just business."

My father is not only the producer of the Noctchill Idol Group but is also a regional manager of an S-Class cosmetic and fashion company. It's also safe to assume that he intentionally made an idol group to not only make the idols' gain more fame but for the companies' sake as well.

It also wouldn't be a far fetched guess if I say he wants to be the CEO of this said company. An impressive strategy I must say.

I don't know why but why do I end up with parents who likes to be in power or likes to have a high position in companies and in government?

Anyway, it would be bad exposing myself to the public knowing fully well that the person whom I suspected to be Yuki's killer is just around, walking freely. Not to mention, he is just close. It would be idiotic for me to assume he is not receiving orders from that man just because he is in prison, but base off the fact that he didn't make a single move as of now, he is trying to cool himself from the authorities' radar.

I don't exactly know what they are planning as of the moment but I'm sure they are still laying low; sharpening their fangs, and are just waiting to strike any time I lay an opening. But unlike him, I won't let my guard down even for a second.