The 21hour flight to Osaka was a marathon of entertainment, snacks, and surprisingly peaceful stretches of sleep. Shayera had meticulously prepared for the journey, packing a treasure trove of books, art supplies, and games to keep Aella and Zephyr occupied. The airline staff were incredibly attentive, providing them with extra blankets, pillows, and even a selection of Japanese snacks to pique their interest.
Aella, ever the observant one, spent much of the flight gazing out the window at the clouds below, occasionally sketching what she saw in her notebook. Zephyr, on the other hand, was more interested in exploring the inflight entertainment system, flitting between cartoons and documentaries with boundless enthusiasm.
Shayera used the downtime to review some documents related to Grandma Su's restaurant and make preliminary arrangements for Aella and Zephyr's schooling in Japan.
Because her body is naturally weak she decided these next 21 hours she would sleep and that is all she would sleep.
As the hours ticked by, a comfortable rhythm settled over the cabin. The hum of the engines, the gentle rocking of the plane, and the quiet murmur of other passengers lulled Shayera into a deep, restorative sleep. She hadn't realized how exhausted she was until she finally succumbed to slumber.
She dreamt of cherry blossoms raining down on a bustling marketplace, of fragrant steam rising from bowls of ramen, and of Grandma Su's smiling face, radiating warmth and pride. It was a comforting dream, filled with promise and possibility.
When she finally awoke, several hours into the flight, she felt refreshed and rejuvenated. Aella and Zephyr were still asleep, curled up in their seats with their favorite stuffed animals. The cabin lights were dimmed, and most of the passengers were dozing peacefully.
"Attention passengers," a calm, professional voice announced over the intercom.
"Welcome to Osaka International Airport. The local time is 3:17 PM. Please remain seated until the aircraft has come to a complete stop and the seatbelt sign has been turned off. Thank you for flying with us."
A collective stirring rippled through the cabin as passengers began to awaken and prepare for arrival. Aella and Zephyr slowly opened their eyes, blinking sleepily as they took in their surroundings.
"We're here!" Zephyr exclaimed, bouncing excitedly in his seat.
"Japan!" Aella echoed, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Shayera smiled, feeling a surge of anticipation herself. After 21 hours of travel, they had finally arrived in Osaka—a new chapter was about to begin.
The moment the plane landed Shayera grabbed her suitcase and the little ones designer backpacks. After Shayera was finished the two kids sat on her suitcase and went to baggage claim. Shayera was wearing black hoodie crop top, sweatpants, Jordan's, and a cap.
As they waited at baggage claim, Shayera scanned the crowd, searching for a familiar face. She had been in contact with Grandma Su's assistant, Mr. Tanaka, who was supposed to meet them upon arrival.
Suddenly, a tall, impeccably dressed man with neatly styled hair and a warm smile approached them. He bowed slightly as he spoke.
"Ms. Lafayette? And these must be Aella and Zephyr. Welcome to Osaka!" Mr. Tanaka said with a polite bow.
Aella and Zephyr stared up at him with wide eyes, fascinated by his formal attire and respectful demeanor.
"Hello," Aella mumbled shyly, clutching her stuffed bunny tightly.
"Konnichiwa!" Zephyr chirped, attempting to mimic the Japanese greeting he'd heard in one of his cartoons.
Mr. Tanaka chuckled kindly. Shayera like her two kids can speak more then nine languages fluently so this was nothing to them.
"Hello thank you for picking me up, may I ask what neighborhood is would be staying at?" Shayera asked as she licked her lips together.
"Certainly, Ms. Lafayette," Mr. Tanaka replied smoothly, gesturing towards a sleek black limousine waiting just outside the terminal. "You'll be residing in the luxurious Minamimura district, known for its stunning views of Osaka Bay and its exclusive residential community. It's considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city."
He paused, allowing Shayera to absorb the information.
"The villa we've arranged for you is a spacious property with a private garden, a swimming pool, and a dedicated staff to cater to your needs. It's truly a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city."
Aella and Zephyr's eyes widened at the mention of a swimming pool and garden. Zephyr tugged on Shayera's sleeve, eager to explore their new surroundings.
"Can we go swimming now?" he asked impatiently.
"We aren't even there yet and boxed haven't been unpacked," Shayera said she then looked out the window. Mr. Tanaka was bewildered how beautiful Shayera was and with her beautiful red hair her dark blue eyes no wonder she wore a face mask when she went out. While Shayera was about to close her eyes she saw magazine photo on a big screen isn't that Lily Williams?
"Sir tell me who is that woman?" Shayera asked her voice was sweet as honey but within it her eyes were cold as ice.
Mr. Tanaka, oblivious to the turmoil brewing beneath Shayera's calm exterior, continued to speak.
"Ms. Williams is currently starring in a popular drama series and has several endorsements with major brands. She's quite the sensation, you see."
Shayera offered a noncommittal nod, her gaze still fixed on the screen for a moment longer before she finally turned away. The amusement in her eyes had vanished, replaced by a steely resolve that sent a subtle chill down Mr. Tanaka's spine, though he couldn't quite place why.
"Let's head to the villa," she said quietly, her voice devoid of emotion.
"The children must be tired."
As they approached the limousine, Aella and Zephyr were buzzing with excitement, peppering Mr. Tanaka with questions about their new home and the swimming pool.
The next moment Mr. Tanaka pulled up a large gate which two security guards asked for their card and the gate opened the neighborhood was no joke it was extremely nice like really nice! All the villas were no joke either.
The villa itself was breathtaking. Nestled amidst lush greenery and overlooking the sparkling expanse of Osaka Bay, it was a picture of understated elegance. The exterior was a harmonious blend of modern architecture and traditional Japanese design, with clean lines, expansive windows, and a meticulously manicured garden.
As they stepped out of the limousine, Shayera couldn't help but be impressed. The villa was even more luxurious than she had imagined. Aella and Zephyr gasped in delight, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the sprawling property.
"Wow!" Zephyr exclaimed, pointing towards the shimmering swimming pool.
"Can we go swimming now? Please?"
Before Shayera could respond, a woman in a crisp uniform approached them with a polite bow.
"Welcome to Lafayette Villa," she said in fluent English.
"I am Mrs. Ito, the estate manager."
"I can speak fluent Japanese no worries my kids can too also can read in Japanese and write."