Echoes of Legacy

"Bonds Under Pressure?"

Kevin was in his room, waiting for a business client, Mr. Ashutosh, when suddenly one of his guards burst through the door, panting heavily as if he'd just run for his life. Kevin raised an eyebrow, amused by the guard's frantic state.

"What happened?" Kevin asked, keeping his tone calm.

The guard stammered, "Your son... Your son killed Mr. Ashutosh. Brutally."

To the guard's shock, Kevin merely smiled and asked, "And?"

Still breathless and clearly confused by Kevin's lack of anger, the guard continued, "He was chasing me... to kill me because he feared I would tell you."

Just as the guard finished, Kevin's dog started barking loudly outside. Kevin's smile grew wider, and he shouted, "I know you're out there, Jack. Come inside."

A moment later, Jack entered, giving an awkward smile before casually sitting beside Kevin, his gaze fixated on the guard.

Kevin glanced at Jack and said, "Apologize to him."

Jack shrugged and, without hesitation, mumbled an apology. The guard, still shaken, accepted it before quickly leaving the room.

As soon as the door closed, Kevin turned to his son. "Why did you dare kill the man?"

Jack smiled, a hint of mischief in his eyes. "For you, Dad. Weren't you planning on killing him anyway? I thought I'd make your job easier. Save you some trouble."

Kevin chuckled. "And how did you even know about that deal?"

Jack leaned back, a smirk on his lips. "Just because people call me irresponsible doesn't mean I am. I handle all your business deals, Dad, even the ones you don't know about."

Kevin smiled proudly and kissed Jack on the forehead. "I know, dear."

His eyes then caught the sight of Jack's neatly tied short ponytail. "And why so neat today?" he teased.

Jack's smile faltered slightly. "Nothing, Dad. I've been burning with fever, and my hair felt like a curse. It started falling out..."

Tears welled up in Jack's eyes, but Kevin laughed softly. "Come on, you..."

Jack sighed. "And here, everyone's busy dragging me through the mud whenever they get the chance."

Kevin couldn't hold back his laughter, doubling over as Jack watched him, exasperated but amused. Exhausted, Jack leaned back and closed his eyes, the weight of his fatigue pulling him into sleep.

Ren entered the room, noticing Jack fast asleep with his head resting on Kevin's lap. Kevin, absorbed in oiling Jack's head, looked up and smiled at Ren. Without hesitation, Ren sat beside them, a frown on his face.

"Kevin," Ren began, "I need to talk about Jack. He's been causing trouble again."

Kevin chuckled softly. "I know, Ren. The boy's always been mischievous. But, in the end, hurting him feels like hurting my own heart. He's my eldest son, my greatest gift from my wife... who's no longer with us." His voice softened as he spoke.

Just then, Jack stirred, slowly opening his eyes. Realizing where he was, he quickly sat up, a bit disoriented. "Ren! Good to see you," he greeted awkwardly.

Ren and Kevin exchanged amused glances, their laughter filling the room. Jack looked even more confused, unsure of what was so funny.

"Jack," Ren said, still chuckling, "Ayumu wants to meet you personally."

Jack's expression darkened instantly. "Why? I'm not going to him. I hate him."

Kevin's smile disappeared, and his tone turned sharp. "Jack!" he snapped. "You already know the consequences of disrespecting elders. How I treat you when you do that."