Last week, Eadie received a cryptic text message from an unknown number that sent a shiver down her spine. She was unsure whether to block the number and stand firm in her decision to get to know Kenji on her own terms.
YOU overwhelmingly chose for Eadie NOT to respond to this unknown number, but what DOES Eadie do next? We invite you to read on to find out. Plus be sure to let us know what you think Eadie should do next by hitting the reply button at the end of the chapter and you'll automatically go in the draw to WIN a $200 Gift Card!
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Chapter Four - Kenji
Eadie fixed her gaze on the cryptic text, deciding not to respond. Instead, she messaged her friend Yuri: “I need to talk. I'll be there in 5 mins.”
Surely Yuri could offer Eadie some explanation? Kenji had been one of Yuri’s guests at her exhibition opening, and they seemed obviously familiar.
Eadie reached Yuri's modern apartment. It was filled with colourful and vibrant art and eclectic sculptures, Eadie was proud of her friend’s accomplishments. Yuri’s life was now a stark contrast to the life she lived in their earlier days in New York as a struggling artist.
Yuri welcomed her with a steaming green tea and sat next to her on the plush velvet emerald coloured sofa.
Eadie's mind raced. “I found these letters at Kenji’s studio,” Eadie confessed, holding back nothing. “And then there’s this mysterious text I received…”
Yuri listened, her expression shifting from intrigue to concern. “Kenji is complicated Eadie. His talent is undeniable, but his feelings towards others’ success can cloud his intentions,” she said, hinting at Kenji's envy.
Eadie nodded, digesting the implications. “You think he resents you?”
Yuri sighed. “Perhaps and just be cautious," she advised, her voice tinged with genuine care. "There's more beneath the surface than you'd expect."
Grateful for her candour, Eadie embraced Yuri warmly. She left the apartment, her head lowered as she walked quickly, carrying swirling thoughts and confusion as she made her way back to the hotel. The night air in Tokyo was cool as she pondered her friend’s warning.
Suddenly, she bumped into Kenji. Surprised yet pleased, he seemed distracted and concerned. “I’m on my way to see Yuri. She called—it sounded urgent.”
Eadie nodded silently, confused by why Yuri would have called him so soon after she had just left. Kenji, sensing her unease, squeezed her hand. “I enjoyed tonight. May I call you tomorrow at 11? I’d love to show you my favourite galleries if you’re up for it?”
Almost unconsciously, Eadie heard herself agree. As Kenji disappeared into the night, she wondered about Yuri’s urgency and Kenji’s obvious concern, sensing the evening now held even deeper mysteries than it did just an hour ago.
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