Bounded by Secrets

"The Price of Defiance"

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The government office was abuzz with energy, and the room was filled with sharp suits and the echo of polished speeches. Jack stood confidently at the podium, representing Kevin's side with unmatched eloquence. His words flowed seamlessly, captivating the audience. It wasn’t just his content that impressed—it was his demeanor, his commanding presence, and the way he drew the crowd in. 

Even Ren, who rarely displayed outward approval, looked genuinely pleased, his nod subtle but telling. Jack’s speeches had always been a crowd favorite, and today was no different. As applause erupted, Jack descended from the podium, smirking as he caught Mayumi’s gaze. 

Next up was Mayumi’s turn. She was visibly nervous, her hands trembling as she clutched the notes she’d prepared. Jack noticed her distress and approached, speaking softly but firmly, “I know you don’t want to do this, right?” 

Mayumi hesitated, biting her lip. “You know, Jack…” 

He cut her off with a knowing smile. “Do you want me to help you out here?” 

Her confusion was written all over her face. Jack sighed in mock irritation, his voice rising slightly, “Yes or no?” 

With a timid nod, Mayumi whispered, “Yes.” 

Without a moment’s hesitation, Jack grabbed her hand and marched her out of the building. Norio and Asahi, who had been nearby, quickly picked up on the chaos and ran after them, leaving the formalities behind. 

Once outside, the tension melted away. They burst into laughter, the kind that echoed off the nearby walls, infectious and uncontrollable. 

Mayumi, still catching her breath, suddenly looked at her tablet, her laughter fading. “Oh no… My relatives, family members, and friends were all watching me live. Now they’re texting me, asking why I left. Jack! What’s your plan?” 

Jack’s grin widened mischievously. “This is *the* plan, Mayumi.” 

Norio’s eyes narrowed suspiciously. “Wait, so the *entire* plan was to just walk out? Knowing Ren will scold us to death for this?” 

Mayumi’s gaze bore into Jack, demanding an explanation, but Norio and Asahi beat her to it. The three surrounded Jack, peppering him with questions. 

Finally, Jack raised his voice. “First of all, I just dragged her out, okay? You two *chose* to follow us, so don’t pin this on me!” 

Asahi chuckled, crossing his arms. “You know, he might have a point, Norio. We really didn’t think that one through. There’s no going back now.” 

Norio groaned, realizing the truth. “Great. Just great.” 

Jack smirked, shrugging. “And second, I’ve always had my own way of fixing things. Trust me. This time won’t be any different.” 

Mayumi, Norio, and Asahi exchanged glances before nodding hesitantly. Just as they were about to continue their banter, a bright light suddenly illuminated the area. 

It was Light, her car pulling up smoothly. She stepped out, her presence commanding yet warm. Approaching Jack, she lightly bumped her shoulder against his and kissed his cheek. “Jack, let’s go.” 

Jack blinked, then smirked. “Oh yeah! Guys, I need to leave for the dentist. You three, handle Ren, okay? I’ll be back by tonight.” 

Norio, Asahi, and Mayumi gave reluctant nods as they leaned back on the stairs, exhaling in unison. 

“Good luck!” Mayumi called out as Jack got into Light’s car, his smirk never fading. 

As the car pulled away, the trio looked at each other, realizing the impending storm Ren would unleash upon them. But for now, they basked in the rare moment of rebellion, the laughter still lingering in their minds.