Emotions that don't exist

Toh recalled the man's expression from earlier. That person likes Sumire, too, doesn't he? Actually, with her personality, it would not surprise him if she had many more admirers. However, she is the oblivious type from what he knows of her. She probably has no idea that so many guys like her.

"Does she get targeted often?" Toh decided to shift his attention to what he had just learned.

Sumire hasn't even debuted yet. But based on what Tsueno Mamoru is saying, the media is very focused on her.

"She does." Mamoru scowls. "They have no regard for her privacy at all and even stalk her when she is on school grounds. If they can do that when she is in school, imagine what happens afterward. Moreover, due to what happened in her last company. Sumire doesn't want to have a manager, and so she has even less protection than most artists would."

'What happened in her last company.' Despite the vague mention, Toh immediately noted it down in his head. Something bad must have happened. It must have traumatized her. He will try to steer the conversation in that direction later and see if he gets any results.

Still, it's truly surprising. Sumire hasn't even debuted yet. Why are the media so focused on her? It is one thing if they are trying to take down star company. However, there are plenty of other new and rising artists that have more popularity and who have actually debuted yet.

Is it because she doesn't have a manager yet, and thus it makes her an easy target?

"I understand. Thankfully the fashion show has been postponed. I will be able to spend more time with her."

"Was the show postponed because-"

Toh nodded. "The university didn't think it was right to hold such an important event when a student has just gone missing, and well some parents complained."

Normally something like the fashion show being canceled would upset him, and he would use his power to ensure it continues. However, recently he has been focused on Sumire. When he goes out, he wants nothing more than to rush back to her side. She is truly making him do irrational stuff.

"So.."

"Sumire has my full attention." Toh trails off. "However, Tsueno, you ought to take better care of yourself."

He didn't want to have to spell it out.

'If something happens to you, her condition will get worse.'

During his observations of Sumire, he noticed something. No matter how upset she gets, the mention of Tsueno Mamoru cheers her up.

Mamoru laughs. "I understand. This is exactly why I can't tell her my situation. I don't want to hurt her."

Before Toh could say anything, the doctor spoke up.

"Aren't you hurting her by keeping secrets? Sumire hates it when you keep a secret from her. She will think you don't trust her." Sano interjected.

Mamoru sighs. "Wow, I can't believe you. Of all people are saying that."

"That's exactly why I'm saying it. She has already been hurt enough. If you don't tell her, then I will."

Toh didn't interrupt the two while they were talking, but he was paying careful attention. If his theory is correct, this doctor is somebody who was once in Sumire's life. But they must have had a falling out because he couldn't find this man's name on her phone.

A troubled look flashes through Mamoru's face. It was his first time seeing the man look so disturbed.

"I understand. If it becomes serious, I shall tell her. Right now, she has a lot going on, with her debut right around the corner. If I tell her my situation now, she may even delay her debut. I can't allow her to do that since her dreams are important to her."

"If you ask me, you're more important to her than her dreams."

"Hey, stop sounding so bitter. I've been trying to help you."

Toh didn't think it was wise to stay any longer, so after handing Tsueno the bag and giving him a note, Sumire wrote for him. He quickly exited the room.

The conversation he had just overheard replayed in his mind. He can add more to his database based on what he just heard. Tsueno is very important to Sumire, maybe even more than her dreams.

One of the first things he learned about the girl was how determined she was to achieve her dreams and how important it was to her. But, to think that Tsueno is that important.

'It bothers me, even though it shouldn't. Since I met Sumire, I am starting to feel emotions I didn't. Emotions I didn't even know existed inside me.'

"Wait." A voice said from behind him.

He turns around and spots the doctor. "Can I help you?"

"Will you give this back to Sumire for me?"

Toh blinked, seeing the key in his palm.

Is this her house key? Toh immediately recognized the shape. Why does he ha--

'I had a boyfriend before.'

Did she mean this guy? That would explain why she doesn't want to come inside. It would also explain why this guy seems familiar with Sumire. The conversations he heard just now make more sense.

"I'll do so." Toh accepts the key. He was about to walk off when he saw the man staring at him. "Is there anything else?"

"Nothing," Sano said and re-entered the room.

Toh didn't waste time and headed back to where Sumire was. He had a lot on his mind. However, now that he has seen the ex-boyfriend, 'That guy doesn't look like he is over her yet.' Based on the bits and pieces he learned from the conversations just now.

Sumire doesn't want to see this guy anymore, but Tsueno has been sending her photos and updating the ex on news regarding her. The breakup seemed terrible and made her trust issues worse. So, why would Tsueno help the ex?

Moreover, why would the ex break up with Sumire if he still liked her?

There are far too many questions that he doesn't have the answer to. After more observation and spending time with her. He should learn the answers to these questions eventually.

For now, he should focus on being there for Sumire. From what Tsueno told him, the media keep following Sumire around and are borderline harassing her. He hasn't seen it for himself just yet, so he cannot make any conclusions; however, if it's harassment that harms her mental health, then he shall take immediate action.