Bounded by Secrets

"Lines of Loyalty"

The next morning, Jack arrived at Ren's house, as he did most mornings, drawn by Ren's constant insistence that he join them for breakfast. Today, however, Jack was quieter than usual, sitting by the window with a flushed face, the remnants of last night's fever still visible. Norio and Midori stumbled into the room, rubbing the last traces of sleep from their eyes, and settled beside him, noticing his uncharacteristic stillness.

Sindy entered with a warm smile. "What would you all like for breakfast?"

Ren answered first, "You know, darling-pancakes and green tea."

Midori chimed in, "Cheese sandwich and an omelet, please."

Norio grinned, "Mom, the regular thing."

Sindy laughed, "So, green salad and tomato soup for you, right?"

Norio nodded, then she turned to Jack. "And you, Jack? Your usual chocolate milkshake and cookies?"

Jack smiled faintly. "No, ma'am... milk and bread will be fine."

Sindy raised her brows in surprise. "Are you not feeling well?"

Jack gave her a slight nod and smiled. Ren, observing the exchange, picked up on Jack's quiet discomfort. Concerned, he moved to sit beside Jack, his tone shifting to the warm, almost fatherly way he always used when Jack was struggling.

After breakfast, Ren insisted on rubbing some oil into Jack's neck and shoulders, which usually provoked a protest. But today, Jack accepted the gesture with a tired smile, making Ren pause. He realized Jack must truly be feeling unwell.

"Jack," Ren said gently, "you need rest. Why don't you start your day after lunch?"

Jack chuckled softly. "Thanks, Ren... I think I will. Let me get a bit more sleep."

Without another word, Jack leaned back, closing his eyes and drifting off to sleep right there on Ren's sofa. Ren chuckled, watching the boy snooze comfortably.

"Naughty boy," Ren murmured, shaking his head with a fond smile.

That evening, Jack quietly entered Mayumi's room, finding her in the midst of packing a small suitcase. The sight piqued his curiosity, and he leaned against the doorframe. "Where do you think you're off to?" he asked, a playful tone lacing his voice.

Mayumi hesitated, her reluctance evident. "It's nothing important."

Jack raised an eyebrow, his smile turning mischievous. "You know, I could always send a few of your private images to your dad if you don't tell me."

Her eyes widened, and she shot him a glare. "You wouldn't dare!"

"I might if you keep being evasive," Jack teased, enjoying the banter. After a moment, she sighed, giving in. "Fine. I'm having a lot of stress these days, and Mr. Robin, our past school teacher, is the only one I think can help me. I've planned to stay at his house for a few days."

Jack chuckled, shaking his head. "I wish I had a place like that, but you know I can't lie to Dad. And those four strict men-Mr. Ayumu, Mr. Ren, Mr. Hiroto, and Mr. Joseph-would catch me in a heartbeat. Especially Ren; he knows everything about me."

Mayumi's expression softened as she listened, her smile returning. "Well, at least you're honest about it."

He grinned, taking a step closer. "Speaking of honesty, I have some good news. My marriage with Rimmy is off."

Mayumi's eyes lit up with surprise. "Really? You're serious?"

"Dead serious," Jack confirmed, a weight lifting off his shoulders as he spoke. "I told my dad it was just too much for me."