Hello, everyone author here! I hope you enjoy these two next chapter! please keep on looking forward for my update! By the way, I really appreciate any little support  after my long hiatus and please share the story if you enjoy it with other poeple. Again stay safe and healthy! Please enjoy

-Author

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Sana POV

We finally arrived at my house. Immediately, our family housekeeper greeted us right away in Japanese.

Sana: Tadiama!

Housekeeper: Okaerinasai Ojosama.

Sana: Are my parents in the living room?

Housekeeper: Yes they are. Let me carry all this in the kitchen and you can go greet them.

Chewy looked a bit confused so translated what was happening. As the housekeeper made her way to take all of our bags.

Tzuyu: No it's okay, let me help you.

The housekeeper smiled and then spoke.

Housekeeper: Tzuyu is it? Yes of course, let me at least guide you to the kitchen so we can place your things and you can meet Mr. And Mrs. Minatozaki.

Tzuyu: thank you.

Sana: I can help too!

Housekeeper: Ojosama, I think we have enough help. You can go greet your parents. They've been waiting for you for a while now.

I then frowned but the Chewy came by my side giving me a soft nudge and smiled at me.

Tzuyu: it'll be really quick. I still need to introduce myself too. Sana-ah go on ahead and I'll be there. I still need to know where everything is before I cook as well.

I then smiled a bit and nodded my head softly.

Sana: Arasoo

I then went off to the living room and my parents stood up to give me a hug.

Sana: Tadiama okasan, otosan!

Mrs. Minatozaki: Okaeri Sana-chan

Mr. Minatozaki: where is Tzuyu-ssi?

Sana: she in the kitchen placing the things she bought to make dinner!

Mrs. Minatozaki: Omo, really?!

Sana: She'll be right out!

Mr. Minatozaki: I see. She is such a considerate girl. Her parents raised her well!

I then became sad and looked down at my hands.

Mr. Minatozaki: What's wrong dear? Is something the matter?

Sana: otosan… I think it's best to not mention her parents.

Mr. Minatozaki: Why not?

I wanted to change the subject because I didn't think it wasn't my place to say.

Sana: O-Otosan! How did Chewy do in her interview? And who did it?

My father then laughed and looked at me kindly. It looked like a good sign.

Mr. Minatozaki: She did just fine. A bit direct, but that's what I needed for my next intern. She was kind of cute too since she panicked and forgot to introduce herself and shake my hand in the beginning, which is a must. I guess that is the only flaw she had. But other than that, she did fairly well among all the other candidates that applied. A bit rough on the edges but for sure the best out of the bunch. Her resume was really good too and she was raised well with good manners.

I then sighed but then realized something.

Sana: Wait so you interviewed Chewy?

My father then laughed again and then spoke.

Mr. Minatozaki: Yes I did! I thought it would be funny to just go with the flow so I impersonated Mr. Yoo being the director of the workers instead of the main CEO. It's going to be a good laugh once we meet.

Just then Chewy made her way over and then stood still in shock. She then made her way over bowing and spoke.

Tzuyu: Director? What a pleasure? Are you here to see Mr. Minatozaki too?

 

Tzuyu POV.

As Sana made her way into the living room, the housekeeper led me to the kitchen, showing me the stove and fridge to store my items before cooking.

Tzuyu: Oh, no I forgot to buy the rice?

Housekeeper: Not to worry Ms. Tzuyu-ssi. We have rice here so that should be the least of your worries.

Tzuyu: Ah I see. Thank you.

As the housekeeper continued to show me the supplies like where the pots and pans were, I was all set.

I then placed the ingredients in the fridge and as I was doing so the housekeeper spoke.

Housekeeper: Ms. Sana must have a huge liking for you to bring you over.

I then looked surprised but smiled.

Tzuyu: I guess I'm just lucky… I'm pretty sure she has others that love and care for her. They've probably come over through invitation as well.

Housekeeper: I think you're the first-person Sana brought over that she loves.

The housekeeper smiled and then continued to speak.

Housekeeper: Ms. Sana was always obedient. She loves to care for others, and she was such a lovely child growing up. After her grandma died in high school, she became sad for a while.

There was a touch of sadness when she said that.

Tzuyu: Sana is a caring child. I remember her wearing a necklace that her grandma gave her since she was little.

Housekeeper: Ms. Sana loved her grandma with all of her heart. And when she died. She wasn't the same… if it wasn't for you that appeared in her life. I'm sure the smile you see now would be gone… thank you…

Tzuyu: Ma'am I don't I have done anything to deserve her, I think Sana grew stronger over the years and learned to love herself… if anything I'm more thankful for her for teaching me to care for people…

The housekeeper smiled and patted my head.

Housekeeper: Still, I want to personally thank you… I've raised Ms. Sana ever since she was born and when that day, she confessed she liked girls, I could see so much growth to be herself… you have also changed her too… don't forget that.

I then smiled. We finished putting all the stuff away and I Decided to go to head my way to the living room as the housekeeper pointed me in the right direction.

As I made my way, I say a familiar face and smiled. But then I saw another familiar face and stood still surprised and nervous at the same time. 'Director? Wonder what he is doing here?' I then approached the group, bowing my head to greet him and spoke.

Tzuyu: Director? What a pleasure? Are you here to see Mr. Minatozaki too?

Then I saw Sana, a woman, assuming it was her mother, and the

the director laughed. I was confused and had no idea what was going on.

Sana: Chewy-ah this man here is my father! The CEO who pretended to be director You.

I then broke into cold sweat. I then bowed again towards him and offered my hand for a greeting handshake.

Tzuyu: M-Mr. Minatozaki, it's a pleasure. My name is Tzuyu. Chou Tzuyu. I am so sorry for not realizing sooner.

Mr. Minatozaki then broke out laughing and then grabbed my hand for a handshake and then placed his other hand over my hand.

Mr. Minatozaki: There's that greeting introduction. I'm so sorry for playing this prank on you. It's a pleasure for having you here. Sana-chan wouldn't stop talking about you ever since she mentioned your name.

Sana: O-Otosan! ...

Sana then blushed and I couldn't help but smile.

Tzuyu: No it's my pleasure to be able to meet your daughter. She has really made an impact on my life as well.

Sana's dad then had a big grin and pulled in for a hug and then spoke

Mr. Minatozaki: Welcome… we're glad that our family can have you over.

Mr. Minatozaki let go from the hug and approached Mrs. Minatozaki and bowed to her.

Tzuyu: it's a pleasure to meet you and thank you for having me

Mrs. Minatozaki: Omo, enough with the formality. We are glad you can come. I heard you brought some things for us.

Tzuyu: Yes I did. Sakura-ssi and Chaeyoen-ssi said that I should bring something. So I bought some peaches and wine for dinner.

Sana: Mama, Chewy also bought things to cook for us as well.

Mrs. Minatozaki: oh my, you didn't have too!

Tzuyu: it's my pleasure too. I was thinking about hitsumabushi? To go along with the wine.

Mr. Minatozaki: Wow I Haven't had hitsumabushi in years! The last time I ate this dish was from the famous Chef Chou back in japan.

Tzuyu: What a coincidence. She was my aunt.

Mrs. Minatozaki: Omo… it's been years. I can't wait. How is your Aunt by the way?

Then things became quiet. I took a deep breath and then spoke.

Tzuyu: She passed away about 5 years ago unfortunately.

Mrs. Minatozaki: Oh no… I'm so sorry… didn't know.

Tzuyu: No No it's okay. Please don't apologize. She lays in my heart with the recipes she handed down to me.

Sana then walked over giving me a hug. I didn't know why but then realized that never told her. I hugged her back and patted her head.

Tzuyu: Sana it's okay. Don't worry.

Sana: No it isn't…

Tzuyu: Aigo…

Just then the rest of the guests came. Me and Sana separated to greet everyone.

Momo and Mina: Good evening!

Sakura and Chaeyeon: Thank you for having us.

Then it became lively again. We all greeted each other and then the housekeeper came by with the cut peaches that I bought that she peeled and smiled. As everyone was eating, I then tied up my hair.

Tzuyu: If you can all excuse me, I'll be making dinner now.

Mr. Minatozaki: Yah… Tzuyu-ssi relax a bit.

Tzuyu: Hahaha I am! The preparations aren't that hard. The sooner I cook, the sooner we can rejoice and talk during dinner and good food and company.

Mrs. Minatozaki: Aigo! You will make a good spouse one day.

I then blushed and Sana did as well. The rest started oooing and teasing and I then laughed and covering my face from embarrassment.

Tzuyu: hahaha thank you! Well if you can excuse me, I'll be making dinner now.

Sana: I'll come help!

Mr. Minatozaki: Sana-chan cooking?

Sakura: more like burning the food….

Sana: Yah…

I then chuckled and laughed, but then went over to Sana and pinched her cheeks.

Sana: Apo… first their teasing me and now you…

I then smiled and took a hold of her wrist and look back at Mr. Minatozaki

Tzuyu: I'll be borrowing your daughter! She'll be my soul chef for today.

Mr. Minatozaki: Ehhhhh~ okay I'll allow this once. Don't you think of stealing my daughter away from me just let.

Sana: Otosan…. You're making me feel embarrassed….

Tzuyu: don't worry sir

I then pulled her along with me heading towards the kitchen as I turned to look at her. I can see her blush while her ears turned bright red. I couldn't help but chuckled… once we reached to the kitchen the housekeeper greeted me and then proceeded to help out.

Housekeeper: Ms. Tzuyu-ssi, what would you like me to do?

Sana: Ajumeoni… please rest. I'll be helping Chewy. You've been so much help. You're practically family.

Housekeeper: I don't know… your never cook…Ojosama

Sana: Ajumma! ...

Tzuyu: Ajumoeni please rest. I should be able to handle everything. If anything I'll have Sana come screaming for your help.

Both the housekeeper and I laughed, and Sana continued to put and puff her cheeks.

Sana: I feel like everyone is ganging up and teasing me more lately…

Housekeeper: Arasoo please be careful. If you need anything, I'll be in the room next door serving tea to the guest. Sana-chan can point to things you need if you can't find them.

Tzuyu: Thank you!

As I was rolling my sleeves up, I saw Sana doing the same. She then tied her hair and I notice a strand dangling on the side. I then leaned over to brush her hair out of her face over her ear. She blushed from my touch and I couldn't help but be taken aback for my sudden action as I quickly drew my hand away scratching my head from the nervousness. Sana then looked at me and smiled.

Sana: Thank you Chewy-ah

Tzuyu: M-mhmm

I then took my half apron out of the bag and tied it around my waist, knotting it in front of me having a kitchen towel hang from my shoulder. As I finished prepping myself, I noticed Sana struggling to put on her full apron. I went over tying up a bow behind her. She smiled shyly and thanked me again. I then got to work chopping the ingredients and preparing the broth for the dish and the rice.

Sana: What can I help with?

Tzuyu: You have a rice cooker, right?

Sana: Mhmm! I know how to use it.

Tzuyu: Arasoo. Can you wash and rinse the rice? I'll give you the dashi broth when it's cooled down to put in the rice before popping it into the rice cooker.

Sana: Yes chef!

I smiled and continued prepping the garnishes. Sana was down with the rice and then went over to see if she could do anything else.

Tzuyu: Sana. I think I forgot a few things at the store. Do you happen to have nori and miso paste?

Sana: Mhmm! We do! I'll go get them for you.

I then toasted the sesame seeds in a pan and placed them in a bowl. Sana then brought over what I needed. I then crushed up the nori after roasting it and placed it in the same bowl with sesame seeds. I then blitzed up the bonito flakes after toasting it as well. I then seasoned it with mushroom powder and salt and set it aside. I looked at Sana and she looked amazed. I then smiled and looked at Sana.

Tzuyu: Want to help me cut some things.

She eagerly nodded and I then handed her knife.

Tzuyu: can you rinse the tofu in filtered water and cute it into 1 cm cubes.

Sana shook her head looking determined. I then poured the now cooled broth into the rice adding some wood ear mushrooms and bamboo shoots to the rice, popping it into the rice cooker. I soaked the seaweed for the miso soup in filtered water until it bloomed. I then proceeded to make the marinade for the eel and prepped the eel to be flat, soaking the eel in the liquid seasoning. As I finished doing so, I looked over Sana and she also just finished. She then looked at me chipper and happy that she did the task perfectly, showing me her product.

Sana: Look Chewy-ah

Tzuyu: It's perfect thank you!

I then took the tofu and now bloomed seaweed and placed it in the remaining dashi broth. Once it reached a full simmer, I turned off the heat and incorporated the miso and placed the lid on the pot.

Tzuyu: Okay Sana, this is the hard part. Can you thinly julienne the green onions?

Sana: Julie what?

I laughed and then proceeded to show her.

Tzuyu: it just means to cut thinly.

She was amazed and clapped.

Tzuyu: Do you want to try?

Sana: YES!

Sana then gripped her knife. I then saw how unsafe her grip was, so I walked behind her wrapping myself around her and gripping my hand over hers, supporting my other hand on the counter on the opposite side.

Tzuyu: Here… Try gripping the knife like this. Having your then on one side of the blade and index finger curled and having the side touch the opposite side of the blade.

Sana shyly nodded.

Sana: M-mhmm…

Tzuyu: okay good. Now pinch the two fingers together. Ah! Good!

Sana: Oh! There is so much more control on the knife!

Tzuyu: Ready for the next part?

Sana: Mhmm!

Tzuyu: okay!

I then gripped her hand that was gripping the knife a little tighter and then demo the rocking motion going back and forth with the knife. then grabbed her other free hand with my opposite hand and positioned it over the green onions in a cupped position. I then saw Sana's ears turn a bright pink and could help but feel a small smile on my face

Tzuyu: Relax your wrist a bit. Okay, good…. Now follow this rocking motion going back and forth with the knife across the cutting board, keeping the tip of the knife on the board the whole time.

Sana: m-mhmmm

Tzuyu: okay good. Always cup your hand and have your knuckles up. That will act as a protective shield for your hand and a guide for the knife. That way you don't expose your finger tips and cut them.

Sana: okay...Got it

Tzuyu: Okay, I’m going to do it along with you slowly together.

Sana: Mhmm okay!

I then began the motion and rocked the knife slowly making the first few cuts.

Tzuyu: okay…. Good...as your knife is approaching closer to you move your hand further down to reach the end as the knife gets closer and closer.

Sana listened and did as she was told. I slowly loosen my grip until my hands were completely off. And I was smiling of how well she was doing. As she finished slicing all the green onions, she then looked up at me to get my approval.

Sana: Well?...

I then picked up the julienne pieces and placed them in a bowl of cold icy water. I then felt them between my fingers, and I looked at Sana as she was anticipating my verdict. I looked straight in the eye and smiled.

Tzuyu: I guess I have my permanent Sou chef. These are cut perfectly!

Sana put down the knife and smiled turning her body towards me and embraced me in a hug and without realizing, landed a kiss on my cheek. She then parted and looked me straight in the eyes. I looked back into hers, wrapping my arms around her waist as she placed her arms around my neck... I was so focused on her…

???: I kind of don't want to interrupt the moment but uhmm… we're hungry?!

I then turned around and jumped in shock as Sana did the same.

Sana: O-Otosan!!!?! Okasan?... Wait why is everyone one here?...

I then noticed I was still holding Sana around her waist as she still had our hands around my neck. We then scrambled out of the embrace and shyly looked around the room. I then scratched my cheek with my finger feeling my face get warm.

Mrs. Minatozaki: Aigo… we shouldn't have done that…

Momo: But it smells so good….

Mina: But we ruined their moment… they were all clingy even from the start of the cutting scene!

Sakura: Sana-chan! Can we trade? I need a chef to hold me and teach me!

Chaeyeon: Ouch… that hurts Sakura… but I won't… I think I got a few pointers from today!

Tzuyu: Wait… how long have you been standing there... Watching us….

Mr. Minatozaki: When the room was smelling so good when you popped the rice into the rice cooker!

Sana: I'm so embarrassed…

Momo: Ehhh~ it's okay! But seriously how much longer?

Tzuyu: I just need to grill up the eel and baste it! So maybe 20 minutes?

Mrs. Minatozaki: Perfect! Well let's ALL leave these two alone so they can finish up so we can eat!

As everyone started leaving Sana saw her dad still standing there hiding behind a wall pouting and with teary eyes. Mrs. Minatozaki then tried to pull him away.

Mr. Minatozaki: Awww…. My entertainment

Sana: Otosan…

Mr. Minatozaki: Okay okay…. I was just worried for my daughter being alone… and now one day you'll leave me... it's so soon….

Sana: Papa… Please leave! Hurry!

I then saw Sana co over to push her father away with the help from her mother and couldn't help but chuckle. Sana then hurried back and buried her face into my chest.

Sana: -moooo- Hazukashi…..

I then smiled… even though it was in Japanese, I knew what she meant. I then wrapped my arms around her and patted her head.

Tzuyu: I think I know now where you got cute behavior. I would think it would be your mom but… I guess it was your dad!

I then started chuckling and Sana started to hit my shoulder.

Sana: Baka…Meanie….

I then smiled and leaned in to kiss her forehead. Sana then looked at me dazed.

Tzuyu: let's finish up. I'll grill it with this tool here and you can brush the sauce on the eel to get it caramelized.

Sana: Yes chef!

I smiled and finished up the remaining task with Sana. Plating and cleaning up the dishes before serving. I looked at Sana and we both smiled and laughed. We then just appreciated each other's presence and got ready for dinner.