POWER STAGE : FAYE + YOKO (gxg)

Pres-sure

The sun was clearing away the damp morning fog, and the sky was turning a bright blue. The chaos of the city was palpable even as I watched from the car window. Yoko was sitting next to me, quiet but deep in thought. When I was with her, I felt both peace and excitement. Today was an important day, not only for the future of our company, but also for our future.

I took a deep breath as the car pulled up in front of the hotel. Today was going to be a press conference. This meeting was not only about the future of the company, but also an important opportunity to reveal Aze's identity and protect her from Yoko's father's tricks. Being by Yoko's side gave me strength. Walking this path with her made me feel more courageous and determined than I had ever felt in my life.

When we stepped into the grand lobby of the hotel, I saw the serious expression on Yoko's face. It was her battle mask; behind her usual calm and reserved demeanor lay a deep determination. When the doors of the grand hall filled with press and cameras opened before us, I paused for a moment. The crowd was waiting for us.

My eyes swept over the crowd. The curious gazes of the members of the press were increasing the importance of this meeting. As I walked slowly towards the podium where the microphones were placed, my heart was beating faster with each step. Yoko next to me, Aze behind me. Everyone was waiting for the statement that would come from us.

I approached the microphone, took a deep breath and started speaking. "Esteemed members of the press, we have gathered here today to make a very important statement about the future of the Apasra Group of Companies."

My eyes swept over the crowd. Everyone's attention was on me. I slowly turned to Yoko and saw the determination in her eyes. This was not just my story; this was a story that Yoko and I had written together.

"Yoko's mother, Pranee, has transferred her shares in the company to me, and that is a big responsibility, and that is why I do not plan to hold on to these shares for a long time. Today, I would like to announce that I will be transferring these shares to the rightful owner, Yoko." A roar rose in the crowd. Yoko shook my hand at this, and knowing that she was there made me feel even more encouraged. Transferring the shares to her meant that not only the company but also my relationship with Yoko had been strengthened. The buzz in the hall seemed to reflect the weight of what I had said. However, I was not finished yet. The time had come to announce the merger.

"And," I continued, realizing that I had the crowd's full attention, "I am honored to announce that Malisorn and Apasra Group of Companies will be merging under one roof. This merger will be an important step not only for our companies, but also for the future of our families."

"Also, I would like to introduce someone else to you here today," I continued, raising my voice a little louder. "Aze is Yoko's father's daughter and Yoko's sister. Aze came from England and has been a great support to us during this difficult time. I am very proud to introduce her as part of our family."

Aze was standing next to us, but it was easy to notice the nervousness in her eyes. She looked nothing like Yoko; this must have caught the attention of the press. One of the journalists in the hall drew attention by raising her hand and raised her voice when she took the microphone.

"You say that Aze is Yoko's sister, but they bear no resemblance physically. Will you make a statement on this matter? Also, what would you like to say about why Aze has been hidden from the public until now?"

This question unexpectedly increased the tension in the room. Aze froze for a moment, but then took a deep breath and began to speak.

"I am my father's child from his secret lover," she said, trying not to tremble in her voice. "My mother is not Thai, I grew up in Europe, so it is natural that I do not resemble Yoko. Until now, this information has been kept secret due to my father's efforts to keep us away from each other. However, instead of hiding behind these secrets, we have decided to face the truth."