Behind the Mask

What's in the Basement?

The doorbell's echo lingered in my ears as I stared at the immaculate wooden surface before me. I took a deep breath. My phone buzzed in my pocket, and I knew who it was before I even glanced at the screen. Sighing, I pulled it out and answered.

"Ami, are you there yet?" came the impatient voice of my publisher, Rin Takahashi.

"Yes, Mr. Takahashi. I just got here. I'm waiting at the door," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

"This exclusive is the biggest thing for us right now. Everyone wants to hear from Ken Sato. Don't forget how lucky you are that he has chosen you for this interview."

"I know," I said, glancing at my reflection in the window beside the door.

"That's good," he said, his tone lightening a fraction. "Good luck, Ami."

With that, he hung up.

I sighed again and checked my watch. Right on time. I took out a small mirror from my bag and stared at my reflection. My makeup was perfect, my hair neatly styled and not a strand out of place. I blinked. Why was I so nervous?

The door swung open, and I nearly dropped my compact.

"Good morning, Miss Wakita," a robotic voice said. "Please come in."

I peeked my head in and glanced around. There was no one inside. "How did you...?" I began.

"I am a personal assistant and home automation system, Miss Wakita. You may call me Mina."

"Oh," I said, stepping in.

Kenji's home was stunning. I was struck first by the expansive openness of the space. High ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows bathed the interior in natural light, offering a breathtaking view of the garden outside. The living room was adorned with sleek, minimalist furniture in muted tones. A state-of-the-art entertainment system dominated one wall, complete with an enormous flat-screen TV and surround sound speakers discreetly integrated into the design.

"This way, Miss Wakita," Mina said.

"Please, call me Ami," I said.

"Very well, Ami," she replied, her voice as soft and melodic as a human's.

Soft golden lighting guided my steps through the living room, leading me toward a glass door which slid open as I approached.

"Wow," I breathed, awed by the lush greenery that awaited me.

A cobblestone path wound its way through the garden. Trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves rustling. A koi pond sat in the middle, its tranquil waters sparkling in the sunlight. Water trickled down a bamboo fountain, adding to the soothing atmosphere.

"Ami Wakita," a voice said.

I turned.

Kenji Sato stood tall and imposing. He wore a simple black shirt that hugged his muscular frame, emphasizing his broad shoulders and powerful arms. His face was all sharp lines and angles, a strong jawline, piercing dark eyes, and high cheekbones. His hair was raven black, styled neatly and combed back. He was handsome and the charismatic curve of his lips told me that he knew it.

I swallowed, suddenly aware of how dry my throat was. "Mr. Sato," I said. "It's good to see you again."

He tilted his head, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Ami please, call me Ken."

"Ken," I said, unable to help the blush that crept across my cheeks. "Thank you for inviting me into your home."

He gave me a lazy smile. "Thank you for coming. It's nice to see you again."