Echoes of Legacy

"Fractured Life and Fading Dreams"

In their room, Jun, Norio, and Jack were trying to convince Mayumi to go to Ren's office. Mayumi, visibly distressed, was crying on the bed and pleading with them not to force her. Jun attempted to pull her up, but Mayumi responded by punching her on the nose. Norio tried to blackmail her, but neither approach worked.

Jack, who had been silent until now, gently lifted Mayumi onto his lap and carried her to Ren's door. As she shouted at him to let her go, Jack gave her a stern look, signaling her to remain quiet. They knocked, and Ren opened the door.

"Ah, Mayumi, finally showing some manners," Ren teased. Mayumi, embarrassed, mumbled, "Sorry, sir."

Jack added, "Mayumi apologizes, sir."

Ren chuckled. "I see you're on a mission to improve our kids, Jack," he said with a laugh. Mayumi, still red-faced, whispered another apology.

Ren smiled and said, "Don't worry, Mayumi. It's not surprising to me. From the day you were born, I knew you'd break the rules and end up in trouble. You'd cry and come to me eventually."

Mayumi managed a nervous laugh, and Jack spoke up again, "Sir, she was asking if you could forgive her this time."

Ren's smile faded as he grew serious. "I can't make an exception for you, Mayumi, despite being the board member's child. If I did, others would feel unfairly treated. However, take care, and-" Ren's expression softened again. "You know how concerned I am about everyone's health. So why haven't you gone for your check-up despite Michael's calls for the past week?"

Mayumi lowered her gaze. "Sorry, sir. I'll visit her before leaving for Jack's city."

Ren nodded. "Very well. Take care."

With that, Mayumi and Jack turned to leave. Jack placed a reassuring hand on Mayumi's shoulder, and they walked out of the room together.

The next morning, Mayumi and Jun were still in a rough state, sleeping in their room. Zeo, who had a spare key to their room, entered and woke them up.

"Mayumi," Zeo said firmly, "when are you going to get your admission to the school?"

Mayumi gave a weak smile and mumbled, "Mumma..."

Zeo's look remained stern. "Asahi is going to school for a project submission. You'll go with him."

Mayumi's expression soured, but Zeo was unyielding. She pulled Mayumi up, tied her hair back, and led her by the hand out of the room. Asahi was waiting downstairs.

Jun signaled Mayumi to stay silent and follow along. With tears in her eyes, Mayumi followed, and Asahi did his best to calm her as they made their way to school.

---

Entering the school, Mayumi and Asahi walked down the familiar hallways until they reached Mr. Robin's classroom. The teacher, known for his strict demeanor and past punishments of Mayumi, glanced up from his desk as they entered.

"Thank God you submitted it, at least," Mr. Robin said, taking Asahi's project with a teasing tone. Asahi managed a nervous smile and introduced Mayumi, "Sir, this is Lee Mayumi. Remember her?"

Mr. Robin's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Ah, that naughty one! So, what brings you back here?"

Asahi explained, "Re-admission, sir."

Mr. Robin's expression shifted to a serious one. "Well, Mayumi, your father must have already arranged your seat. However, for formality's sake, you'll need to take a test. I'll be back in a minute with the question paper. Please wait here."

As he spoke, a small, cheerful girl entered the room. In a high-pitched, childish Japanese voice, she called out, "パパ!" (Pa-pa!) She then added, "ユリお母さんが下で仕事を呼んでるよ。" (Yuri okaasan ga shita de shigoto o yonde iru yo.)