My nerves were on edge as I fidgeted in my seat. A feeling that there was a pressing lurking in Ian's mind was hard to ignore. My gaze was fixed on the mature gentleman with distinct creases beneath his eyes, sporting a tidy haircut and facial hair. What could it be? What was on the tip of your tongue? What was it that you are yearning to say to me?

“Celebrities, even ones as young as you, often succumb to the pressures and negativity that come with fame, which can unfortunately have a negative impact on their fans. I hope to prevent this from happening to Kichi.” 

Ah, I understand now. That was what Ian was trying to convey to me. Did he believe I would be upset by that? I gently placed my fork down and gazed at him intently. 

"Kichi doesn't seem like someone who would just blindly follow others," I remarked. 

"Maybe. However, after witnessing what I saw last night at the station..." Ian trailed off.   

The heat of my skin intensified as my heart raced inexplicably.

"I am uncertain about the nature of the relationship between my daughter and you. However, the manner in which she held onto you tightly last night, not wanting to be separated from you, is quite unusual for her. You see, because of the way she is, Kichi tends to be cautious in forming close connections with others. This is her way of safeguarding herself."

"Do you know?" I asked calmly.

"That my daughter is attracted to girls?" Ian's grin widened, showing either amusement or embarrassment. He ran his hand through his hair thoughtfully. "Well, I did raise her.”

"I apologise for speaking frankly, but I am aware of parents who feel ashamed when they discover their child is attracted to a person of the same gender. Your openness and acceptance of your daughter's lifestyle strikes me as unusual."

Ian's eyes dropped. "The saying ‘the apple doesn't fall far from the tree’ comes to mind. To be honest, I had a feeling deep down that she would turn out this way. I suppose you could say I had time to mentally prepare for it." 

As I studied Ian intently, I could sense my eyebrows furrowing. "You are not, are you?" I asked, a tinge of doubt in my voice. 

Upon witnessing the gears churning in my mind, Ian chimed in, “It's not complicated, or at least I believe it isn't. But it’s a long story.” 

“Are you willing to accept her as she is?" I asked. 

“It's a harsh reality that the world will constantly judge and despise her, and as a father, it's difficult to harbor any negative feelings towards your own child. Personally, I wish she could just have a boyfriend to make things easier, but that doesn't seem to be in the cards.”

It was evident that Kichi's life would have been simpler had she had a preference for boys. However, from my perspective, it was fortunate that she does not, as it would have greatly diminished my chances of being with her. Despite the challenges that society may present, it was ultimately her personal preferences that have allowed for a potential connection between us. 

“Do you believe she is aware of your awareness?" 

Ian chuckled and quipped, "She would be absolutely mortified if she actually knew."

Just as I was about to speak, my words were cut short by the sudden ringing of a bell. I turned my head in the direction of the sound and saw Ian's gaze following it as well.

"Well, it seems this young lady has chosen to take the day off," Ian remarked with a tinge of sarcasm. “I employ a part-timer. She does everything except work most times. She was supposed to be here by now." He checked his watch while the bell chimed once more. "I need to head downstairs."

“Of course. I appreciate for the breakfast," I expressed.  

"Sure thing," he replied with a polite tone before making a request. "Would you mind doing me a favour?"