*****************************************Author's Note***************************************

I'm baaaaaaaaaaaack!!!! Missed me? Missed Maotsujun? Well, here's an update. It is my first attempt at writing angst. Hope you like it!

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“Eh!?!” Arashi screamed in unison. Everyone was utterly shocked by the news Mao brought. Aiba forgot to react to Jun’s earlier action. Jun wasn’t able to apologize for spitting tea on his friend. Nino was caught off guard by Mao’s statement. Sho’s jaw literally dropped. Lastly, Ohno couldn’t help but elicit a weird shocked face upon hearing those words.

Mao crossed her arms upon seeing the boys’ reactions. “You heard what I said. I. Am. Pregnant.” She couldn’t stress this enough.

“But how?” Aiba was definitely bewildered.

“Do you really have to know the details? Learn your biology, Aiba.” Nino retorted back.

Sho approached Mao. “Are you sure about this?”

“Yes. As a matter of fact, I have a sonogram to prove it to you.” Mao left for the couch where she put her bag. She rummaged through her things and found the tiny envelope she was looking for. She hurriedly went back to the boys and flashed the sonogram she held to them.

The Arashi boys moved closer to have a clearer view of the picture. The bean-shaped lump of flesh in the sonogram meant another life. This was clearly understood by the Arashi. However, accepting and recognizing it as their own is another story for the boys.

“That’s a baby-in-the-making alright.” Sho straightened up and pointed at the sonogram. “By the way, how far are you already, Mao-chan?”

“I just had my check-up the other day. According to my OB-Gyne, I’m already ten weeks pregnant.”

Ohno looked deep in thought after hearing her statement. Suddenly he started counting his fingers. “If I’m not mistaken, ten weeks had already passed since we all first met Mao-chan, right?”

“Yes.” Mao inhaled a great deal of air. “And that is why I’m telling you that one of may be the father of this child.”

While all of this conversation was going, Jun could only slump back on to his chair. He had a pale appearance and was sweating a lot, which is not of a typical Matsujun.

Matsumoto Jun has never been this perplexed until now. Wait. Me? A father? Already? How could this be?

He has never been flooded too much by his thoughts until Mao came. I’m pretty much sure something happened between us. I wouldn’t forget such details. Jun lips curved into a smile. But, protection! How stupid of me to forget something like that! He mentally slapped himself a couple of times.

Because of that one teenie-tiny bit of detail, here I am, on the verge of losing Arashi! Johnny would be pretty mad if he learns that I have a child. Jun could only shake his head with the consequences of his actions.

Wait a minute. Those boys! It seemed as if a mental light bulb flashed. I wasn’t all alone with my hime! He looked like he just had a “Eureka moment”.

I am pretty sure about me and Mao doing our “thing” but what about the others? They were also completely the morning after. That must mean something, right? Jun was now completely engrossed with his own thought.

 There is a possibility that the boys could own the child too. He shivered at the thought of sharing Mao with his friends.

But how I can be sure that it was only us who became involved with Mao? What if she had other relationships? Jun’s being paranoia about Mao’s condition made him thought inappropriate things.

What if she’s only using her baby to solicit money from us? Knowing our status as Arashi, she could get a lot…

All of these thoughts filled Jun’s mind and when it reached the point where he can’t take it anymore, he stood up from his seat. He did it quite violently to be exact and it startled the others.

Jun moved towards Mao. He seemed to have a menacing aura while doing so. When he stopped in front of Mao, Jun donned a smile that had a hint of sarcasm.

Then he went dangerously close to Mao’s face and whispered, “Are you sure it’s one of ours?” Jun retracted back and continued, “How do we know if you’re just saying things to get something from us?” He started walking in circles around Mao. “For monetary gain for example? Or for fame? One can definitely be the buzz of the town once they declared she’s carrying one of Arashi’s child…”

Beneath the silence, Jun didn’t stop talking. All of Arashi were dumbfounded by their friend’s words. They were completely taken aback that they even didn’t get to stop him from further hurting Mao.

In a tone progressively escalating, Jun continued. “How can we prove all your statements? How can we be sure it’s not another man’s child you’re carrying? You haven’t been exactly faithful, right? What if you’ve had more than one night—”

*Slap*

Mao couldn’t take it anymore. “How dare you insult me?” She was already on the verge of tears. “How dare you accuse me of being a gold digger?” From an unknown source, she was able to muster strength to shove the great Matsujun. “Tell me! In what way have I implied that I wanted your money? If you’re so worried about your wealth, then guess what! I don’t even need it. For your information, I also have money.” Mao needed to give emphasis on her last sentence.

Mao shoved him another time, making Jun step backwards. “Fame, you say? I don’t need it. You’re not the only one who’s known here, Matsumoto. In the business world, everyone knows the name Inoue Mao.”

 For the last time and with her utmost strength, Mao pushed Jun. This time the force was able to make him stumble and land on the floor. “That’s for accusing me of being a ! If you don’t want this baby, just say so. Don’t you dare make false accusations about me!” From then on, Mao’s tears were overflowing. “Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to be humiliated by you, Matsumoto.”

Now Mao faced the other Arashi members as well. “All I wanted was to let all of you know about my baby’s existence. I wasn’t even going to let one of you shoulder this burden. I don’t expect you to recognize the baby. My only reason for letting you know is to give you the chance of becoming a part of this baby’s life. But based from what your friend has told me, and mind you, he did tell me a LOT of things today, I don’t think that would be the case.” She finally wiped her tears and smiled a painful smile. With a shaky voice, she bid farewell. “So goodbye, Arashi-san. I hope this will be the last time we’ll meet. I hope our paths never cross again.”

Mao quickly grabbed her things and stormed out of the room. Tears started running down her face again as she did so.

The room Mao left was full of silence. Everyone was speechless. Nobody moved a muscle. Jun wasn’t able to move from his position on the floor. After a minute of contemplation, Nino decided to break the silence. “What the hell is that, Matsujun?!” He rushed towards Jun and grabbed him by the collar. “Tell me what was that all about.” He started shaking his friend. “Why on earth would you do such a thing to Mao? Why would you let a pregnant woman cry like that huh?” His voice echoed throughout the room. “Answer me before I do to you something I’ll regret later on.” Nino threatened him as he looked into Jun’s eyes.

“Guys, stop that!” ordered Sho. “Nothing will ever be solved by violence.” Aiba and Ohno decided to interfere. Ohno released Nino’s grasp on Jun while Aiba helped Jun get back on his feet.

“Explain it to us Jun so that we may understand.” Ohno’s calmed voice tried to ease the tension.

Jun ran his hands onto his head, indicating his confusion. “I messed up, guys. I don’t know what’s gotten into me. My emotions took over me and the next thing I knew, I was already spitting fire like a dragon towards Mao.”

“What an irresponsible thing to say.” Nino replied angrily.

Jun could only bow his head down for forgiveness towards his friends. “I’m sorry, okay? I’m sorry I messed up all your chances of being a father to Mao’s child. I am a coward for doing something like that.”

“You’re a coward alright.” Nino whispered.

“It’s okay. We forgive you, Matsujun. Right, Nino?” Ohno nudged his bratty friend.

“Tsk. Fine.” Nino just couldn’t resist Riida and immediately gave in. It’s amazing how Arashi can make up in an instant. “But it’s more important for him to apologize to Mao-chan. Those things he said earlier were really hurtful.”

Sho agreed. “Nino’s got a point. Wait. Speaking of Mao-chan, I’ll check up on her. I don’t think she’s gone a long way.” He dashed towards the door.

“So what happens now?” Aiba inquired.

“We rest, Aiba-kun.” Ohno patted his back. “That’s enough thinking for today. We’ll deal with this tomorrow.”

The three younger members of Arashi obliged to Riida’s suggestion. They all retreated back to their rooms to rest. Ohno did the same and immediately slept.

*****

Meanwhile, Mao has been walking in the side walk for almost half an hour now. She left the Arashi house in her anger and now she has no idea how to reach home. She has no car and unfortunately, her phone died that’s why she can’t call to be fetched. Her last resort is to hail a cab but since she in still inside the exclusive subdivision, the chances of doing so is slim. That’s why she has been walking, hoping that she’ll eventually reach the gate/entry point of this place and find help from there.

It was already deep in the night. Being alone in an unfamiliar place perks up Mao’s paranoia. “Damn you Arashi!” She kicked a deformed can that’s on her way. “After a day of flirting this is what I get!” Mao screamed, wanting to release her anger. “Ugh! Silly me for trusting them with this information. I never should have told them. I should have kept my situation as a secret.” She let out a deep breath and then continued walking.

Out of the sudden a black car slowly went near her. Its windows were gradually lowered, revealing Sakurai Sho at the driver’s seat. “Mao-chan, come on in! I’ll drive you home.” He flashed a smile.

Mao ignored him and continued walking. Sho also continued to drive slowly, following her. “You know, it’s quite dangerous for a woman like you to walk alone in the middle of the night.”

Mao continued to face forward. She paid no attention to Sho’s words. Sho on the other hand was still eager on bringing Mao home. “Do you even know how to go back to your place from here? Only a handful of people know of this place.”

“I’m fine on my own. Thank you for your concern Sakurai-san but no thanks. I don’t need your help.”

“Fine, you say? Do you really plan on walking towards your home? In that outfit? In those heels?” Sho pointed at her feet, which from the looks of it are already swollen from fatigue.

“I’m fine. I can handle this.” Mao still is stern.

“Hmm.  You think so? From what I’ve read, pregnant women aren’t supposed to be under huge amount of stress. They shouldn’t experience extreme exhaustion. You’re placing your baby in danger with your stubbornness, Mao-chan. Just hop on and let me give you a ride.”

“Don’t you dare teach me on how to take care of my baby! It’s none of your business.”

“I was just concerned, Mao-chan.”

“Well, don’t be.” Mao, being irked with what Sho said, picked up a faster pace.

“Mao-chan, wait!” Sho called out. He then also drove faster but was stopped in his tracks by the image of Mao collapsing on the side walk. “Mao!” He hurriedly climbed out of his car and approached the unconscious woman. He held her and shook her gently. “Mao! Mao! Wake up!”

Mao slowly opened her eyes.

“Thanks goodness you’re alive! Hold on a sec. I’ll get you to the hospital.” Sho carefully carried Mao in his arms. He then placed the weakened lady onto the front seat. Upon hearing the engine start, Mao placed her hands on Sho’s. “Wait. I don’t want to go to the hospital. Drive me home instead.” She said almost in a whisper.

“Are you sure Mao-chan? I think it’s better for doctors to take a look on you.”

“Please don’t. Just take me home. Rest is what I need.” Mao then told Sho her address. Afterwards, she immediately fell asleep.

Sho couldn’t help but be worried of this lady. He’d seen her faint a lot of times and he still doesn’t think it’s natural. That’s why he wanted to take her to the hospital. However, he also didn’t want Mao to be angry at him so he obeyed what the lady requested.

Sho continued to drive, memorizing the way to Mao’s house in the process. It would be quite handy in the future. Being the only one to know about this is quite an advantage.

After an hour or so, Sho reached the Inoue residence. From the looks of it, Mao really wasn’t lying with what she said earlier about her having money. The place could already pass as a mansion. As Sho approached the locked gates, a moving surveillance camera came near the car’s window. Then a voice asked, “Who are you and what business do you have with the Inoue family?”

Sho was astounded with the advanced security measures of this home. He rolled down the window of his car and stated his name. He then let them know that Mao is with him. He reassured the security personnel that he’ll only be dropping Mao off and will be gone the instant Mao enters her house.

As if being contented with what he said, the gates slowly opened for him. He continued to drive the car until he reached the main door.

Mao stirred in her sleep. She slowly opened her eyes. After her vision became clear, she finally recognized the man beside her.

“How are you feeling, Mao-chan?” A very fretful Sho asked.

Mao replied with a weak smile. “Daijoibu, Sakurai-san. Thank you for the ride. I should probably go.” She then removed the seatbelt, wanting to go out of the car.

“Wait. Let me help you.” Sho quickly got out of the car and went to open the door for Mao. He assisted her as she climbed out of his vehicle, carefully holding her petite frame. They walked up the stairs where Mao was greeted by her fretful maids.

“Inoue-sama! Inoue-sama!” The maids gathered around her and Sho. Sho released his hold of Mao. Mao requested some privacy from her maids. Soon, she and her guest were left alone.

“Thank you again for the ride, Sakurai-san. Sorry for the trouble I caused.” She bowed in thanks.

“No worries, Mao-chan. I should be the one apologizing to you. I apologize in behalf of Jun and the rest of Arashi.” He bowed deeply in front of her. “That was very unmanly of us to let you experience that feeling while you’re in a delicate situation. Jun was probably very shocked and his emotions clouded his mind and actions. He never should have done that kind of insult on you. I am deeply sorry for that. I apologize on behalf of the rest of Arashi as well for letting Jun speak of those words. We were also too shocked by his actions and the situation. I’m truly sorry, Mao-chan.”

From Sho’s facial expressions and his tone, Mao could see and feel the sincerity in his words. However, one sorry wasn’t enough. His sorry wasn’t enough.

“I’m also sorry but I can’t accept your apology for now. He had hurt me. He’d hurt my unborn child. I don’t think your sorry would suffice. It’s already late Sakurai-san. You should probably keep going.” Mao led him the way.

“I’m sorry, Mao-chan. This time I’m apologizing for myself. I hope you find it in your heart someday to forgive everyone of us.” Sho quietly stated as he went down the stairs.

Mao didn’t even bother waiting for Sho to get inside the car. She immediately retreated back to her bedroom.

For the nth time, Mao was left alone in her old bedroom. As soon as she hit the bed, tears started falling down to her cheeks.

“Why would they do such a cruel thing to me?” Mao sobbed. “They were Arashi. They’re known to be one of the nicest idol groups. But why would they insult me like that?”

Mao continued her rant. “Why would he, Matsumoto Jun, do something like that to me? Why him of all people?” She punched one of her pillows.

“He was who kissed me. He was the one who made the greatest move on me and yet he dared to call me a ?” In her anger, she threw her pillow towards the other side of the room.

“I hate him! I hate him! Damn you, Matsumoto Jun!” She cried. She screamed. She shed tears.

In almost a whisper, she admitted. “But I hate myself even more…” Tears continued to drip unto the bed sheets. “I hate myself because even if he did something like that to me, I still can’t get myself to forget about him and that kiss.”