Are You The One Jo Togame?

Chapter 30 - It Was All A Lie

I've made my decision. Togame deserves to know. It's his child too, and I can't keep this from him any longer. I'll handle it delicately—one step at a time. The universe is on my side. It has to be. Somehow, I feel an odd sense of confidence that things will work out this time. Togame and I are meant to be. I'm certain of it.

But Megumi... he deserves to know the truth as well. I owe him that much. Facing him won't be easy—not with everything we've been through—but I'll figure it out. For now, my priority is Togame.

A day passes before I gather the courage to act. After a restless night, I shower and get ready, rehearsing in my mind how I'll say it. I've tried calling and texting Togame, but there's no response. My messages go unanswered, and I'm starting to wonder if he's changed his number. It would make sense. After all, I was the one who ended things between us. He must be going through a lot right now.

I force myself to stop overthinking. If he's not answering, I'll have to find him in person. Even if he's not at the base, his gang will know where he is. It's my best shot.

Just as I'm about to head out, I catch sight of Megumi standing by his car, parked right outside my place. He looks like he's been waiting, but he never mentioned he was coming over. What's he doing here?

I step outside, my emotions a chaotic blend of guilt and surprise. He notices my expression but says nothing, simply reaching for me. His arms wrap around me tightly, his hand cradling the back of my head in a gesture so familiar it nearly makes me cry.

"Good morning, Ruby," he says softly as he pulls back, his hands still holding mine. His gaze scans my face, his brow furrowing. "You don't look too good. Did you sleep well?"

I force myself to smile, pushing my spiraling thoughts aside. "Good morning, Megumi. I'm fine... just a little tired."

He studies me for a moment longer, unconvinced but unwilling to press. Then he smiles, a gentle laugh escaping him. "What's with you? You don't remember, do you? We were supposed to meet today to check on the wedding venue. The wedding's the day after tomorrow, Ruby. Why else would I be here?"

His laugh is lighthearted, but it feels like a dagger. I'd completely forgotten. My chest tightens, the weight of everything bearing down on me. I let out a weary sigh.

"Hey," Megumi says softly, placing a hand on my shoulder. "You okay? We don't have to go if you're not up for it. It's no big deal. I know things have been overwhelming. Let's skip it, yeah? We can do something else—whatever you want."

His concern only deepens my guilt. My thoughts race. I have to tell him. It's now or never.

"Megumi," I say quietly, my voice trembling. "I... I need to tell you something important."

His brow furrows in confusion, but his smile doesn't fade. "Sure," he says easily. "We'll talk. Let's head out, and you can tell me on the way, okay?"

He opens the car door for me, his calm and steady presence making the weight of my secret even harder to bear. I step inside, my heart pounding as I brace myself for what's to come. 

The drive is peaceful, with Megumi softly humming along and tapping his fingers to the rhythm of the music. I couldn't bring myself to say it just yet, and he didn't ask.

As we approach the coast, the salty air tells me we're almost there.

The restaurant is a hidden gem by the water, rustic and peaceful, with a terrace offering a stunning view of the sea. The breeze is cool, and the sound of waves sets a calming tone.

Megumi picks a spot by the edge, where the sun casts golden hues over the water. It's beautiful, though it can't quite distract me from the storm inside.