81-85

*Chapter 81: Otosan~ * 

Let’s be real, while gaming and anime conventions are packed with all sorts of performance art, a tall, handsome guy like Fuyukawa Tetsu carrying a pure and beautiful gothic lolita through the crowd still turns heads like nobody’s business. 

“Has Sasa been kidnapped?! What kind of plot twist is this?!” 

“That guy’s so hot! Is he just gonna whisk her off to a hotel or what?! So exciting just thinking about it!” 

“Isn’t the height difference a bit too much? It’s like a lion and a little lamb!” 

“Hey, ask her if she wants to join for some fun!” 

“Hold up, doesn’t this Sasa cosplayer look kinda familiar?” 

The crowd buzzed with chatter, and some girls even ran up to ask for Tetsu’s contact info, hoping for a group adventure. Naturally, he ignored them, but his cool, aloof vibe only made the young fangirls even more obsessed. If security hadn’t stepped in, he probably wouldn’t have escaped the mob. 

“Ugh, I knew I shouldn’t have come to a place like this,” Tetsu muttered. “Hey, you little klutz who busted your skirt’s zipper, where’s the changing room?” 

The convention center was massive, and after wandering for ages without finding the changing room, Tetsu stopped at a less crowded corner. With his right arm wrapped around the middle of Izumi Himawari’s thighs, he hoisted her over his shoulder, glancing around in mild frustration. 

Himawari’s innocent little face twisted into a pout as she tossed her head. “You just hit me, and now you expect me to help you? No way!” 

Before she could finish, a sharp smack landed on her heart-shaped behind—this time, with no coat to cushion the blow! 

Just a thin layer of cute bear-patterned cotton! 

?! 

Himawari’s eyes widened in shock, her legs—clad in black stockings—going rigid as her delicate, pale toes curled tight. 

Noticing the shift on his shoulder, a sly grin crept across Tetsu’s face. He grabbed the bear-patterned fabric and gave it a firm squeeze. “Still wanna test me? Seems like Sayoko’s been spoiling you a bit too much.” 

“Hiss—” 

The force wasn’t gentle, and her little peach was practically squished out of shape. 

Himawari panicked completely. In that moment, her mind inexplicably flashed back to last night, when she’d seen Sayoko in the car on the balcony, getting her own peach smacked. 

Even Sayoko listens to him… 

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Her heart raced, but her body gradually softened. “Kui… knows she messed up, okay?” 

“That’s more like it.” 

“This jerk…” 

Himawari’s face flushed bright red, her cheeks buried in Tetsu’s shoulder. The +300, -200, +300 emotional values practically floating above her head betrayed her anything-but-calm state of mind. Luckily, at that moment, a row of simple changing rooms—wooden frames draped with curtains—came into view. Countless guys and girls in cosplay outfits were going in and out. 

“A huge gaming expo, and the changing rooms are this basic?” Tetsu grumbled. 

Muttering complaints, Tetsu crouched down, carefully setting Himawari—still wrapped in his coat—onto the ground. He brushed off the spot on his waist where her little boots had left some dirt. “I’ll be waiting over in the smoking area. If anything happens, just shout.” 

He pointed to a nearby windowed hallway and gave her a quick heads-up. No way around it—conventions like these were full of innocent kids, but also creeps. In his past life, he’d seen plenty of “convention upskirt” or “changing room” scandals. With flimsy setups like these curtained booths, it was way too easy for someone to sneak a photo or “accidentally” wander into the wrong room. 

“Got it, Kui understands,” Himawari replied softly. 

Feeling cared for warmed her heart, but the lingering sting on her peach kept her blushing. She lowered her head, nodding shyly. 

“Phew, didn’t expect that flat-chested girl to have such a surprisingly perky peach,” Tetsu mused. 

As he watched Kui head into the changing room, Tetsu strolled over to the smoking area. He glanced at a few yellow-haired guys squatting in a corner, laughing and puffing away. Leaning against the window, he lit a cigarette and gazed out at the distant sky. 

Honestly, he hadn’t expected today to turn out like this. He’d just wanted to take Sayoko out to unwind a bit. Work had been intense lately, and he was exhausted. Plus, Surrounded by Beauties was almost ready to launch after some final polishing. 

The pressure was real, and he’d just wanted a breather. But… 

“The stress relief was definitely effective,” he thought. 

Recalling Himawari’s reactions, Tetsu exhaled a cloud of smoke, a hint of amusement in his eyes. Just then, a cool, familiar voice cut through. 

“What are you doing here?” 

“?” 

The voice came from behind. Tetsu, leaning on the windowsill, turned to look. His brow arched slightly. “Me? You’re the one who’s out of place here.” 

In his puzzled gaze stood Miyano Mitei, someone he hadn’t seen in a while. Her eyes held a flicker of surprise, but she still looked at him with her usual icy demeanor. 

It was a day off, so Miyano wasn’t in her usual sharp minister’s uniform and killer heels. Instead, she wore a sophisticated light gray coat over a high-neck sweater that hugged her impressive figure. Her curvy yet slender legs were clad in loose, playful suit pants, paired with black high-top Martin boots. Compared to her NTsoft look, this outfit was more chic and relaxed. Her usually pinned-up wavy hair was down, softening her sharp, black-rose-like allure into something more like an elegant, slightly aloof noblewoman. 

Clothes can change a person’s vibe, but only until they open their mouth. 

“As NTsoft’s minister, I was invited to this gaming expo. What’s so strange about that?” Miyano shot back, not missing a beat. 

Under the envious stares of the yellow-haired guys nearby, she strode up to Tetsu, plucked the cigarette from his mouth, and stubbed it out. “I don’t want my subordinate dying early from lung cancer. No more smoking!” 

Before she finished, Tetsu had already pulled out another cigarette, lit it, and winked at her playfully. “The law says I can smoke in the smoking area. Isn’t Minister Miyano overstepping a bit?” 

Her brows furrowed, that cool, seductive aura resurfacing. But after a moment, she let out a soft laugh, giving him a sultry side-eye. She took the cigarette from his mouth again, but this time, she didn’t stub it out. Instead, she took an elegant drag. Clearly not a newbie, but it’d been a while—she coughed lightly after one puff, then shoved the cigarette back into his mouth with a playful glare. “Cut back on these things, or you’ll regret it later.” 

“Don’t worry, I’ve had no complaints so far.” 

“Ugh, you’re incorrigible.” Rolling her eyes again, Miyano leaned against the window, letting the cold breeze tousle her hair. “But you seem pretty relaxed. Game progress going well?” 

“Yeah, filming’s done. Was gonna head to the company tomorrow to talk to you.” 

“What do you need me to do?” 

Her reply was sharp and to the point. Looking at this confident, alluring woman, a glint of appreciation flashed in Tetsu’s eyes. He turned, leaning back against the window with his elbows on the sill. “Just follow the original plan. But…” 

“But?” Miyano raised an eyebrow, waiting. 

Tetsu took a drag and grinned. “Interested in jumping ship to work with me later?” 

“Work with you?” Her eyes widened slightly, but the surprise wasn’t overwhelming. Instead of answering, she leaned on the windowsill, gazing at the sky. “Once this game’s done, you’re thinking of going solo?” 

“Nah, for the next game.” Tetsu shook his head, stepping closer to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with her. “I’m not that cocky. I think this game’s gonna be a hit, but I won’t get much of the profits. Plus, it’s not exactly gameplay-heavy, so it’s not gonna make me a big name in the industry. No money, no fame, no team. Without a team, I can’t make something big, so there’s no reason to leave NTsoft.” 

“You’re not as dumb as I thought,” Miyano teased, glancing at the clouds. “Japan’s gaming industry looks thriving with all its classic IPs, but it’s like NTsoft—once glorious, now rotting. Tech’s fallen behind the West, but the seniority system keeps young talent with big dreams stuck. Guys like you don’t stay under someone else’s thumb for long. I’ve known that from the start. But the problem is, those talents are also elites who fought tooth and nail to get where they are. You’ve got no money or name to pull them together.” 

Tucking her hair behind her ear, she adjusted her black silk gloves. “So, what’s your plan?” 

“For the next game, I want the most resources from Division Four, diving into action games. I’ll use NTsoft’s staff but outsource a ton to capable new companies. And don’t push for my promotion unless it comes without a non-compete clause.” 

Tetsu exhaled a puff of smoke, frowning. Miyano’s brows knitted too. “You want to… borrow the hen to lay your eggs?” 

“Yeah, but it won’t hurt NTsoft. It’ll actually benefit them,” Tetsu said earnestly. He wasn’t lying—his next game was Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice! 

The reason for Sekiro was simple. Miyano was leading Division Four into ARPGs, and unless he jumped ship or gave up resources, that’s what he had to work with. Big ARPG IPs like God of War, Devil May Cry, Dark Souls, or Assassin’s Creed could spawn sequels, but Sekiro was different. 

Sekiro was unique. When Black Myth: Wukong’s trailer dropped, millions of Sekiro fans popped up overnight, just like the “million Zelda fans” before. But Sekiro took years to hit 10 million sales by 2023, while Cyberpunk 2077 surpassed that on launch day. Still, Sekiro wasn’t a flop. Its sales weren’t top-tier even among Souls games, but it was the first Souls game to break into mainstream hype. Why? Its combat was brutally tough but didn’t require a steep learning curve. 

No reading barrier. Some hype Sekiro as art, unlike the casual Surrounded by Beauties, but its success came from hitting the casual market’s sweet spot. Devil May Cry’s combos are flashy, but casual viewers can’t follow. God of War feels visceral but leans toward button-mashing, leaving spectators detached. Sekiro, though? Watching it is like watching basketball, soccer, or chess. 

Sekiro’s high skill ceiling revolves around simple concepts—parry, counter, execute—that anyone can grasp. It gives casual viewers that “I could do that” feeling, like watching a chess match or a soccer game. From a business perspective, that’s gold. That sense of involvement sparks chatter, chatter builds buzz, and buzz drives hype. 

Sekiro’s sales weren’t the best, but it put the Souls series on the map for casual players. Its story doesn’t lend itself to sequels, so the IP isn’t a huge loss. Ten million sales is solid, not phenomenal, but it’s enough to repay NTsoft’s investment while letting Tetsu build his “Souls creator” brand for the future. 

Tetsu had a lot on his mind, but Miyano didn’t know that. “Good for NTsoft?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “You think your next game’s a guaranteed hit?” 

“You’ll see.” 

He shrugged, avoiding empty promises about the Souls concept. Smart adults, especially someone like Miyano—an elite who became a corporate minister in her early thirties—don’t buy hot air. 

Sure enough, his restraint earned a glint of approval in her eyes. She crossed her arms, smiling. “Alright. But you’ve got some guts asking me to jump ship. Do you even know my resume?” 

“I do. Five Sate Game Alliance titles with over five million sales, two with ten million, and one with 15.37 million, all under your marketing leadership,” Tetsu rattled off, grinning. “That’s why I want you.” 

“Knowing all that, you still dare?” Miyano’s lips curled with pride. “You know how much NTsoft paid to poach me? The non-compete penalties?” 

“Nope, but I know you won’t stay at NTsoft long.” 

Her proud smile faltered. Tetsu leaned against the window, taking a drag. “I don’t know how much NTsoft paid or what your penalty is, but I know Chairman Tsuru brought you in. You asked if I know your resume—do you know hers?” 

Miyano’s brows furrowed. She clearly did. 

“You left Sate because its internal politics and zaibatsu ties made it impossible for a non-insider like you to climb past minister without decades of seniority. NTsoft’s a mess too, but it’s a mess that needs reform. You saw a chance to rack up achievements and maybe hit the board—Director Miyano, right?” 

Before he finished, she snatched his cigarette again. Looking at the stunning, slightly troubled woman elegantly puffing away, Tetsu crossed his arms, smiling. “But it’s not happening. Your resume and skills are top-notch, but NTsoft’s seniority system won’t let you break through. Chairman Tsuru ran NTsoft for 24 years, and not one person got promoted for skill alone. The average section chief was 32. That’s what tanked NTsoft. 

“She’s not clueless, though. Whenever NTsoft hits a crisis, she reforms, like bringing you in. But how many of her past ‘reform tools’ are still at NTsoft? And why did the board let her back in?” 

Silence. 

Miyano knew the answer. 

As she puffed harder, her cheeks hollowing, Tetsu took the cigarette from her lips and stubbed it out. “People think differently depending on their position. Tsuru, the president, the board—they’re all living in mansions, driving luxury cars, with young escorts on call. Why risk that? They’d rather take a steady 200,000 yen a month than a 50-million-yen gamble. Their goal is to preserve wealth, not grow it. 

“And like Deputy Director Yamanaka, most board members rose through seniority. The system that tortured them in their youth now protects their power. They won’t shift promotions to merit, especially not for a ‘young’ early-30s upstart like you. Once NTsoft stabilizes, a creative, risky, rule-breaking talent like you won’t just miss the board—you’ll struggle to keep your current influence.” 

As Tetsu rambled, Miyano’s frown deepened, then softened. She looked up, her eyes a mix of admiration and amusement. “They brought me in for a reason, I know. But you’re not just saying this to poach me, are you?” 

“Sharp as ever,” Tetsu chuckled. “I’m confident in my next game, but it’s expensive—over $70 million in production costs, plus equal marketing. I need you to secure those resources.” 

“$70 million? Matching marketing? That’s Hollywood blockbuster money!” Miyano’s eyes widened, looking at him like he was nuts. “You think the company will give a 25-year-old newbie a $140 million budget? Or that my face is made of gold?” 

“I’m not asking for a decision now,” Tetsu said calmly. “We’ll talk after this game launches.” 

He’s serious? 

His lack of pushiness only surprised Miyano more. But it was too far-off to dwell on. She took his lighter, toying with it. “Fine. Two weeks, and we’ll see. Oh, by the way, you didn’t say why you’re here—” 

“Who’s she?!” 

Before Miyano could finish, an aggressive voice cut in. A stunning gothic lolita stormed over, glaring at Miyano, then at the lighter in her hand, before awkwardly latching onto Tetsu’s arm. 

“Otosan, who’s this obasan? You two looked pretty cozy. Are you abandoning Kui?!” 

“…” 

Goddamn, I’m losing my mind writing this. 

Chapter 82: Changing Room (3.5K) 

"Hey, old man, who's this lady? You two looked pretty cozy just now. Are you planning to ditch Little Sunflower or what?" 

Izumi Himawari clung to Fuyukawa Tetsu's arm like a daughter, her face showing a hint of panic. 

But it was clear from her choice of words and the intense wariness in her eyes that Tetsu knew exactly what this little girl was thinking. He opened his mouth to respond, but at that moment— 

"Tetsu-kun, is this the 'baggage' you mentioned? Don’t worry, Mitei will make sure to discipline her properly from now on." 

Hearing the term "old lady," Miyano Mitei's alluring face twitched with a raised brow, her eyes glinting with a dangerous yet amused look. She stepped forward, wrapping her arms around Tetsu’s neck, her ample thirty-six Ds pressing against his chest as she breathed softly, her voice sultry. 

"Pfft—what kind of weird roleplay is this?! This plot feels straight out of an 18+ game!" 

"Who the heck is this woman?!" 

"This is way too perfect!" 

"The goddess I could never win is just someone else’s puppy? That saying… it’s actually true… sobs." 

"Is this what rich guys’ lives are like?" 

"Normies, stay away from gaming expos!!" 

His right arm was held by a pure, beautiful girl in a gothic lolita dress, while a sensual, glamorous woman pressed against his chest. Without a doubt, the moment Miyano Mitei’s "snowy pomelos" turned into "snowy pancakes," every guy in the smoking area was floored. 

Some were shocked, some were jealous, some threw out snarky comments, and others sulked, puffing on their cigarettes in quiet despair. 

All eyes were on Fuyukawa Tetsu’s face. Even the most envious couldn’t hide their admiration, but… Tetsu wasn’t exactly having the best time. 

Sure, his right arm was held by a pure, beautiful girl, but Izumi Himawari was also pinching his flesh hard. And yeah, his chest was pressed against those snowy pomelos, but his left foot was being mercilessly crushed by Miyano Mitei’s high-top Martin boots. 

The two women’s gazes were filled with charm—and murderous intent! 

A battlefield of jealousy! 

But— 

Tetsu wasn’t fazed at all. Amid the shocked stares of the smoking area crowd and the slightly flustered looks from Himawari and Mitei, he flexed his arms, pulling both women— one slender, one curvaceous—into his embrace. With a grin, he said, "You came at the perfect time. Let me introduce you. This is your new mom, Ms. Miyano. And this is Little Sunflower, Izumi Himawari. As women of the Fuyukawa family, you two need to get along from now on." 

"..." 

"..." 

Completely caught off guard by Tetsu’s response, Miyano Mitei, pressed against his chest, froze, her foxy eyes wide as saucers. Not just her—Himawari was stunned too. Feeling the strong hand gripping her waist, her face flushed red, her heels lifting slightly as she pressed closer to Tetsu’s chest. But soon, catching the sweet scent of Miyano Mitei standing shoulder-to-shoulder with her, she snapped back to reality. 

"What’s that, you big pervert?!" 

"You’re way too bold!" 

With two indignant cries, the next second, both women broke free from Tetsu’s embrace like they’d been launched from a slingshot, glaring at him with flushed, angry faces. 

Tetsu chuckled and shrugged. "Come on, I was just playing along with your little game. Weren’t you two the ones insisting on this whole daughter-stepmom act?" 

"Ugh, you annoying old man!" 

Himawari shot him an embarrassed glare, but she realized Tetsu wasn’t the type to be cornered by women. She smoothed out the wrinkles on her skirt and then turned her hostile gaze back to Miyano Mitei. "But seriously, who is this lady? Why were you two so chummy just now? You even shared a cigarette!" 

Another jab, another "old lady." 

Even with her usual cool, aloof demeanor, Miyano Mitei’s brow twitched slightly. She puffed out her ample chest and said, "I’d like to ask, when did Section Chief Fuyukawa’s taste get so… bland?" 

Bland? 

Himawari blinked, but when she caught the dismissive glance sweeping over her modest A-cups, she exploded. Hands on her hips, she snapped, "So what if I’m flat? I’m only eighteen! I’ve got plenty of time to grow! Unlike some old ladies who only have downhill to look forward to! Hmph!" 

Such sharp wit? 

Seeing Himawari argue for the first time, Tetsu raised an eyebrow, amused. But Miyano Mitei, a master of verbal sparring, wasn’t one to be outdone. 

"Plenty of time to grow?" Mitei smirked dismissively. She wasn’t planning to waste more words on this kid, but sensing the close bond between Himawari and Tetsu, her eyes gleamed with playful mischief. "You’re young, sure, but let me tell you a harsh truth: reaching my level isn’t just about time—it takes talent. A skinny twig like you? No chance. You might not even have enough for your kids to eat." 

"What?! Mind your own business!" 

Another dismissive glance. 

Mitei, the seasoned pro, knew how to hit where it hurt. That single look completely broke Himawari, but what Mitei didn’t expect was Himawari’s next move. Furious, Himawari grabbed Tetsu’s arm and huffed, "So what if you’re curvy? Tetsu-kun likes my type! Right, Tetsu-kun?" 

Her tone was coy, but her eyes were threatening, with a hint of hidden shyness. 

Honestly, Tetsu appreciated all kinds of beauty. Sayako and Mitei were like a gentle wife and a voluptuous black rose—soft and comfortable to hold, with a plush, yielding feel. But Himawari’s slender, fair frame, with long, straight legs Pai and a petite figure that could be held with one hand, was just as captivating. 

Feeling the warmth from her grip on his arm, Tetsu was about to say, "I like them all," when— 

"Tetsu-kun, Little Sunflower, there you are! Oh, Director Miyano?" 

Hearing a familiar voice, Himawari and Mitei turned to see Kawai Sayako at the entrance of the passageway. 

It was Christmas, and Sayako had clearly put effort into her appearance. Her tall, curvy figure was wrapped in a youthful pink mid-length coat, with a fluffy white sweater and a thick, cozy scarf accentuating her thirty-six Ds. The coat’s hem reached mid-thigh, and her shapely legs were clad in light-colored cotton tights. 

It’s true what they say—outfits can completely change someone’s vibe. 

If Sayako’s usual floral dresses gave her the aura of a gentle, traditional wife, today’s look added a layer of refined maturity. Unlike Mitei’s "elite professional" sophistication, Sayako’s vibe was more like a sweet wife waiting under an umbrella in the snow for her husband to come home. 

When these two stunning women with contrasting auras met, the scene drew every man’s attention. Amid the pained, "Is there no justice left?" looks from the smoking area’s crowd, Sayako approached Tetsu with a gentle smile and gave Mitei a slight bow. "Merry Christmas, Director Miyano. I didn’t expect to run into you here." 

Perhaps a bit warm from walking, her lovely face was flushed, and faint white puffs of breath escaped her lips. 

"So you’re here to spend Christmas with Sayako-san," Mitei said, glancing at Sayako and then at Tetsu, whose outfit was a bit more polished than usual but still casually unkempt. A knowing look flashed in her eyes. 

Have they already moved in together? 

This guy moves fast. 

Sayako didn’t catch Mitei’s thoughts. As a naturally timid woman, she’d always been a bit intimidated by Mitei. But remembering Tetsu’s words from that hot spring night—You’re a woman of the Fuyukawa family—she lifted her head, confidently linked her arm with Tetsu’s, and flashed a sweet smile. "Oh, no, the project work wrapped up yesterday, so Tetsu-kun made time to spend with us today. By the way, I saw the company’s booth when I came in. Are you here as a representative, Director Miyano?" 

Whoa, Sayako’s holding her own?! And against her boss, no less! 

Himawari, who’d been worried, widened her eyes. She’d visited Sayako at the company before and always thought Sayako seemed shy and unconfident around colleagues. That’s why she’d reacted so strongly to Mitei’s closeness with Tetsu. 

She’d been concerned for Sayako, but this was completely unexpected! 

Even Mitei, who’d dealt with Sayako before, was surprised. With a playful glance at Tetsu, she nodded. "Yes, TGS sent the company an invitation. Oh, look at the time—I need to head to the venue. Catch up with you three later." 

Checking her watch, she nodded to Sayako and Tetsu, then shot a teasing look at the fuming Himawari before swaying her hips and heading into the venue. As soon as she left, Himawari’s eyes widened as she checked her phone. "Oh no! I have to perform! I’m gonna be late! Old man, Sayako, come watch me sing later!" 

With that, she dashed off in a panic. 

"Hey, slow down! That girl… if only her personality was as calm as her looks," Sayako muttered helplessly. 

Tetsu, hands in his pockets, chuckled. "That’s just how you are. You want kids to be quiet when they’re having fun, but in a few years when they actually settle down, you’ll probably be chasing them out of bed with a broom." 

"No way, I’m not that strict," Sayako pouted. "By the way, how did you run into Director Miyano?" 

"Oh, that? It all started with a zipper button…" 

Tetsu was open with the woman he cared about, recounting what had happened. 

At first, Sayako smiled hearing about Himawari’s zipper mishap, but when he got to the part about Mitei, she wrinkled her nose. "Tetsu-kun, you’re so greedy. You already have me, yet you’re so close with Director Miyano." 

Her tone carried a hint of complaint, but before Tetsu could respond, she leaned closer, her snowy pomelos pressing into pancakes against him. Tiptoeing, she whispered shyly in his ear, "Looks like you didn’t get enough this morning, huh? That won’t do. So… how about over there?" 

"Over there?" 

Caught off guard, Tetsu followed her gaze and his eyes widened slightly. 

She was looking at the curtained changing room. 

His gaze instantly heated up. Sensing his reaction, Sayako’s face flushed, but she continued her shy whisper. "I knew you couldn’t resist. I… wore the lace openwork style today just for you~" 

"You little minx! Let’s go!" 

Chapter 83: Changing Room 2 

Christmas is definitely a wild day, and with TGS being a top-tier gaming expo, the changing room area was packed to the brim. All sorts of cosplayers and staff were weaving through the crowd. 

Honestly, in an environment like this, things felt more thrilling but also more nerve-wracking. What Fuyukawa Tetsu didn’t expect, though, was that the moment they stepped into the booth, Sayoko Kawai turned around and kissed him passionately, her fair arms tightly wrapping around his back. 

“Pony or bento box?” she teased. 

Tetsu leaned down slightly, his arms circling the spot where Sayoko’s waist met her curvy hips, then he flexed his core and lifted her up. 

“Eek! Bento box it is!” Sayoko squealed. 

Her feet left the ground, her whole body lifted into the air. Her flushed face let out a soft gasp, but she kept her eyes closed, lost in the kiss with Tetsu. Her legs instinctively wrapped around his waist, moving with a practiced ease. 

The outside world was a chaotic mess, but inside the booth, it was like their own little universe. 

To be honest, the feel of her cotton leggings was great—but not exactly convenient. 

Then again, not that inconvenient. 

After a while, their lips parted, but their breathing grew heavier. 

Sayoko, her eyes completely dazed, loosened her legs and let them dangle in the air. Her hands tugged at the waistband of her leggings. 

One leg of the pants slipped down. 

“You’re getting bolder,” Tetsu remarked. 

“Don’t like it?” she shot back. 

Her body still suspended, Sayoko’s eyes shimmered with a playful spark. She wrapped her arms around Tetsu’s neck again, lightly nibbling his earlobe. “Hmph, no way I’m letting you save any energy for that Miyano-senpai,” she murmured with a soft moan. 

Most women are emotional creatures. 

Even though Sayoko had accepted Tetsu’s flirtatious nature, that didn’t mean she was totally fine with it. 

Much later, when they returned to the main venue, Sayoko’s face glowed with a rosy flush. Tetsu, whose arm she clung to, felt a bit drained in the waist. 

“Sunflower’s draining me... This girl’s terrifying when she lets loose. Gotta step up my workouts,” Tetsu thought, his steps a little shaky. It felt amazing, but also left him a bit hollow. A wry smile crept onto his face. 

Lately, work had been so busy that he’d slacked on training. His physique was still solid—abs and pecs intact—but less training meant fewer buffs from his system. And Sayoko’s soft curves were just as intense as her personality—fierce. 

He prided himself on being a powerhouse, but in less than half an hour, he’d already “unloaded” twice. It left him a bit spent, especially since it was Christmas. Before leaving that morning, he’d caught a glimpse of Sayoko preparing a special “outfit” for the evening. 

“No way. I’m loading up on oysters and clams at dinner,” he decided. Even if he was only a little drained and confident he could go a few more rounds, this lifestyle was a marathon. To keep the fun going strong, he needed to stay fueled! 

Lost in his thoughts, Tetsu soon followed Sayoko to the Date A Live exhibition booth. As they arrived, he spotted Himawari Izumi, dressed in a gothic lolita outfit, taking the stage with a group of girls in cosplay costumes. 

Yup, a girl group. 

Himawari had signed a short-term contract with great perks, but the entertainment company wasn’t running a charity. To capitalize on her buzz, they’d packed her winter break schedule with commercial gigs and auditions for music variety shows. 

Since it was a short-term deal, she didn’t get the company’s promotional support. Whether it was auditions or later stages, she had to rely purely on her own talent to gain traction. 

In short, the company wanted to milk her for all she was worth without investing much. If she blew up, great. If not, no loss for them. 

It was the same deal here. The girl group was made up of the company’s idol trainees, using Himawari’s popularity to boost their own. She was the lead singer, but there was another lead vocalist, and during the dance segments, she was pushed to the side. 

Still, it worked for her. She didn’t need fame right now—just quick cash. 

But... 

“Haha, this is her girl group? No way, I’m recording this,” Tetsu chuckled. 

Watching Himawari in her gothic lolita dress, holding a mic and dancing a bit awkwardly, Tetsu nearly burst out laughing. He quickly pulled out his phone to snap a photo. 

At 6’2”, he towered over the crowd, standing out like a crane among chickens. The moment he raised his phone, Himawari spotted him from the stage. It was a commercial gig, so she couldn’t lose her cool. Instead, she pouted slightly, shooting him a “you’re in trouble tonight” glare before flashing a sweet smile for the cameras and continuing her otaku dance. 

It was a hilarious scene, and Tetsu couldn’t stop grinning. He was teasing her, but Sayoko was all in for the event. She’d already pulled out a hand-drawn support poster from her bag. Her shorter height and Tetsu’s reluctance to push through the crowd made her sign less noticeable, though. 

This wouldn’t do. 

At her playful pleading, Tetsu sighed, crouched down, and hoisted her onto his shoulders. 

Seeing Sayoko cheering for her, Himawari’s smile grew brighter. Tetsu, with Sayoko perched on him, shifted his neck slightly, feeling a lingering warmth from earlier. 

They’d been living together long enough to be like an old married couple, so he didn’t mind too much. He swayed to the music, casually listening. And, to be fair, Himawari’s singing, honed since she was five, was incredible. As the song hit its climax and she moved to center stage, her high notes soared, igniting the crowd. 

Not just their booth—people from nearby exhibits flocked over to watch. 

“Is that the girl who sang ‘I Once Thought of Ending It All’?” 

“You saw that video too? It’s so good!” 

“Haha, I hadn’t, but my little sister was crying to it the other day. Her voice is legit!” 

“She’s gorgeous too! A cosplayer who gives you that ‘wow’ factor in real life is rare. Just... her chest is a bit small.” 

“Petite lolis are the best! You wouldn’t get it!” 

“No way! I’m all about the curves! Lolis are heresy!” 

“You’re the heretic, you boob-obsessed creep!” 

“Guys, stop fighting!” 

“...” 

Was this the raw passion of Japanese otaku culture? 

A few guys nearby started arguing over their preferences, and the debate only grew louder as more joined in. Tetsu, exasperated, shifted Sayoko a couple of steps away to avoid any “collateral damage,” silently thinking, Can’t you just like both? 

Himawari’s performance lasted over an hour. By the time Tetsu and Sayoko returned from wandering around, it was wrapping up. 

“Get down. Let’s grab Himawari and head home for dinner,” Tetsu said. 

“Aw, let me stay up here a bit longer! This view is amazing—I’ve never seen things from this high!” Sayoko giggled, playfully tugging his earlobe. 

Tetsu rolled his eyes but didn’t object, shaking his head with a smile as he carried her toward the backstage area. 

“Himawari’s voice is insane. Our performances never got that kind of hype,” one of the girl group idols said backstage, peeling off her cosplay outfit. 

“No kidding. Why do you think the company shelled out to sign her?” another replied. 

A round-faced girl glanced at Himawari, who was removing her earrings and chatting with the makeup artist. “She’s so confident, though. Not signing a long-term contract to secure a future? If she graduates college and can’t write another hit song, she might be in trouble.” 

“Who knows? People make their own choices. Instead of focusing on her, think about how to use her popularity to boost your own. She’s going back to school after summer.” 

“Oh, right. Hey, if I take a selfie with her and post it on LINE, would that seem too obvious—oh! Director Nanya!” 

The round-faced girl was mid-ramble when a handsome middle-aged man entered. The group stood and bowed. 

“Good work, everyone,” Director Nanya said, a flicker of disappointment in his eyes at not catching anyone changing. He didn’t linger, heading to speak with the makeup artist. 

“Director Nanya’s aura is still so intense. But a young, successful guy like him? Total man vibes. Being his girlfriend would be such a flex,” the round-faced girl whispered, her eyes a mix of awe and nerves. 

Her teammate shrugged. “Stop daydreaming. Tons of women are after him—you’re not even on the list.” 

“Don’t crush my dreams, Hui! Maybe he’s into cute, curvy girls like me—huh, who’s that?” 

As she spoke, Director Nanya hurried to the door, bowing deeply to greet a tall, handsome man with a female companion. 

“Merry Christmas, Manager Fuyukawa!” Nanya said formally, his face breaking into a slightly fawning smile. 

Tetsu returned a casual nod, glancing at the row of girl group members. “Merry Christmas. Your company’s idols are talented. That performance drew a big crowd.” 

“You’re too kind, Manager Fuyukawa! If there’s ever a chance to collaborate with NTsoft, please keep Sistar in mind. We’d deliver top-notch promotional performances for your projects!” 

“Sure, we’ll see about future collaborations,” Tetsu replied offhandedly, scanning the room. “Where’s Himawari?” 

“Oh! Izumi-chan’s in the restroom. Please wait a moment. By the way, her performance today was phenomenal—her voice is like a gift from the heavens, thanks to your guidance, Manager Fuyukawa!” 

“...” 

Tetsu wasn’t new to flattery, but this level of over-the-top praise was rare. It wasn’t a workday, and he wasn’t in the mood for small talk. After a brief exchange, he chatted casually with Sayoko while waiting for Himawari. Director Nanya, ever the professional, bustled around, fetching tea and event souvenirs. 

The girl group members watched, wide-eyed. 

“Who’s that guy? Why’s Director Nanya acting like that?” the round-faced girl whispered. 

“You don’t know? You’re so out of the loop,” her teammate scoffed, changing her shoes. “That’s Himawari’s ‘brother.’ Not blood-related, if you catch my drift. Rumor is, he got Deputy Director Tanaka to sign her with our company.” 

“Deputy Director Tanaka?!” 

“Yup. He’s NTsoft’s youngest manager. NTsoft’s a gaming giant, way bigger than Sistar. A manager like him at headquarters? His salary and status outrank Tanaka’s. When he visits our company, even the director rolls out the red carpet. Nanya’s at least four or five levels below him.” 

Glancing at Himawari, who was playfully bickering with Tetsu as they left, the teammate added with a hint of envy, “Now you get why she’s confident enough to skip a long-term contract.” 

Chapter 84: The Joy of Christmas Eve 

Fuyukawa Tetsu had no clue about the hushed admiration from the group of girls backstage. 

After wrapping up a commercial performance with Himawari Izumi, he was ready to grab some food. But Himawari, being a teenage girl, was clearly hyped about the gaming expo’s festive vibe. Plus, Sayoko was itching to check out a few Galgame booths, so Tetsu had no choice but to tag along for the ride. 

Still, he thought to himself, “Days like this aren’t half bad.” 

Holding a chocolate sundae, he watched the two girls—one older, one younger—swaying in front of him like soft peaches. His gaze lifted to their smiling faces, chatting excitedly about the nearby game booth. Tetsu felt a rare sense of calm wash over him. 

That peace didn’t last long, though. 

Women, he realized, were a mystery. Once they started shopping, their stamina could outmatch a pro athlete. Since Himawari was now earning her own money, Sayoko’s usual restraint had loosened up, and the result? She wanted to buy everything. Unlike other women who might splurge on clothes or makeup, Sayoko, an artist, was all about Galgame and manga—especially the 18+ kind. 

In Japan, 18+ content is legal as long as it’s censored and sold in designated areas. At the Tokyo Game Show, some Galgame vendors couldn’t play their promo videos openly to avoid influencing minors. But if you proved you were an adult and showed interest, the staff would escort you to a private booth to check out the goods. 

For Tetsu, a grown man, 18+ stuff was no big deal. What surprised him, though, was Sayoko. She used to be way too shy to talk about this kind of thing in public. 

“She’s really letting loose, huh?” 

Watching Sayoko’s flushed face as she boldly followed the staff into the booth, Tetsu smirked. Without overthinking it, he followed her in, leaving poor Himawari in the dust. 

Himawari stood at the booth’s entrance, clutching her ice cream cone, staring at the pink-tinted room with wide, confused eyes. 

Wait a minute! Bringing a young girl like me to a place like this… is that even okay? Oh, wait—I’m already 18, aren’t I? 

Confused but curious, Himawari’s expression shifted to something mischievous. She scarfed down her cone, puffing out cold breaths, and strutted into the room with her head held high. 

She was thrilled—until she wasn’t. 

Do guys nowadays only like women with big chests? 

Is there no market for pure, petite girls like me anymore?! 

Staring at the walls plastered with posters of busty heroines, she glanced down at her own flat chest and froze. Her stunned look cracked Tetsu up so hard he nearly doubled over, which, of course, earned him a flurry of playful punches from Himawari. 

While the two goofed around in the back, Sayoko was up front, notebook in hand, seriously studying the wall of busty characters. The vibe was weird but somehow wholesome. 

After a day of wandering and playing, Tetsu tossed a pile of Sayoko’s 18+ manga into the car trunk. By then, the Akihabara sky was lit with a bright moon and swirling snowflakes, perfectly capturing the Christmas spirit. 

“Eat at home or grab something out?” Tetsu asked, closing the trunk and exhaling a puff of white breath. He clapped his hands, walked over to Sayoko, and hugged her, slipping his cold hands into her warm pink coat. 

“Ugh, Tetsu-kun, your hands are freezing! Thanks for carrying everything. Hmm, eating at home sounds good—we bought a ton of groceries yesterday,” Sayoko said, her cheeks pink from the public affection. She didn’t pull away, though, instead nuzzling her face into Tetsu’s chest and slipping her hands into his coat to hug his waist. 

On the snowy Christmas Eve street, their embrace was heartwarming—until Himawari, grinding her teeth, kicked the car tire in frustration. “Hey! I’m still here, you know! Tone it down!” 

“Oh, you’re still around?” Tetsu teased. 

“...! You jerk! I’m gonna kill you!” Himawari snapped, her face red with embarrassment. She charged at him, fists swinging, but the icy road betrayed her. Halfway through, she slipped, lurched forward, and—to Tetsu and Sayoko’s wide-eyed horror—crashed face-first into Tetsu’s… well, let’s call it his “nest.” 

Rocket face-slam! 

Tetsu crumpled in pain, collapsing backward into a snowman by the roadside. 

“You crazy kid?!” he groaned, clutching his stomach. 

Himawari, meanwhile, was mortified. The memory of that soft impact lingered as she touched her lips, staring at Tetsu in the snow. She was about to scream when a snowball smack hit her cheek, cutting her off and leaving her with a mouthful of snow. 

“You jerk! That’s so cold!” she sputtered. 

“Ha! Teach you to mess with me!” Tetsu laughed, grabbing another snowball and rubbing it into her face while holding her waist. Himawari squirmed like a ragdoll, yelling threats but unable to break free. 

“Honestly, Tetsu-kun’s such a kid sometimes,” Sayoko said, picking up Tetsu’s scarf from the ground and brushing off the snow. Her smile was a mix of exasperation and warmth. 

As for their overly close antics… Sayoko’s eyes flickered with a complicated look. But watching Tetsu’s profile, thinking of their shared moments and words, she glanced at the moonlit sky, the Christmas carols filling the air. Her complex feelings melted into a sigh of both relief and resignation. 

Tetsu had no idea what was going through Sayoko’s mind. After tussling with Himawari, the fight ended—as expected—with her mumbling a half-hearted, “Fine, I’m sorry, okay?” laced with defiance. 

Victory! 

But playing in the snow during winter? Fun until it wasn’t. Their clothes were soaked from snow sneaking into their collars, so eating out was off the table. 

On the drive home, Tetsu made a quick stop at the market. Sayoko protested, saying they had enough food, but when she saw him beeline for the seafood section—loading up on oysters and geoduck—her face flushed. 

Lately… maybe I’ve been a bit too demanding, she thought, worrying about Tetsu’s stamina. Still, her desire didn’t waver, though she started considering moderation. But when they got home, and she served seafood soup and grilled oysters on the kotatsu table, Tetsu—fresh from a shower—pulled her into his arms before she could sit. 

Feeling his strength, her eyes turned sultry, unrestrained. 

Dinner wasn’t eaten at the dining table but at the kotatsu—a low, heated table like the one in Crayon Shin-chan, complete with a cozy blanket. Tetsu had custom-ordered small sofas for it, preferring to lounge over kneeling or sitting cross-legged. To him, there was something special about the family gathered around the kotatsu, eating and watching TV. 

But it wasn’t all wholesome. With the blanket hiding their movements, Tetsu couldn’t resist teasing Sayoko, even with Himawari nearby. Both kept it subtle, though. Later, as the night deepened and fireworks mixed with Christmas carols outside, Tetsu and Sayoko—who’d both had a bit of sake—retreated to their room. Fueled by alcohol, earlier teasing, or maybe their first Christmas together, Sayoko pounced on him, kissing him fiercely like a wild leopard. 

But as another brilliant firework lit up the frosty window, she softened, resting obediently by the window. 

“Are the fireworks pretty?” Tetsu asked. 

“Mmm… can we… watch them together every year?” Sayoko murmured. 

“We will,” he promised. 

The bedroom was warm with heat, while across the hall… 

“Sayoko and that jerk Tetsu are definitely up to no good!” Himawari huffed, sitting on her tatami mat in the dark, watching the fireworks. They were beautiful, but she couldn’t focus. Her mind kept replaying being slung over Tetsu’s shoulder earlier, along with some… weird fantasies. Her face grew hotter. “Hmph! Stupid guy! I don’t need him! I’ve got my manga!” 

She grabbed a manga from her shelf, but paused, her face flushing deeper. After a moment’s hesitation, she nibbled her lip and tiptoed to her desk, pulling a box from her bag. The fireworks illuminated the label: 

Illusion Co. Winter TGS Freebie: Beginner’s Bouncing Ninja (Pink) 

“Ninja, huh? Bet it’s way more useful than that jerk!” she muttered. 

10,000 words achieved! 

Chapter 85: Digging Deep into the Domestic Market! 

Christmas was a blast, but after the festivities, everyone returns to their usual routine—whether it’s calm or grueling. 

Still, Christmas leads right into New Year’s Day. 

In Japan, New Year’s is as big as the Spring Festival in China. The streets of Tokyo buzz with cheerful vibes as everyone prepares to welcome the new year. 

The Fuyukawa household is no exception. 

At just past 7 a.m., a yawning Tetsu Fuyukawa comes downstairs to find Sayoko kneeling at the kotatsu, watching morning news while weaving a shimenawa. 

A shimenawa is the straw rope adorned with zigzag-shaped paper streamers you see hanging at shrine torii gates. It’s a traditional Japanese craft meant to pray for blessings and divine protection for the home. 

Whether the gods actually bless them or not, Tetsu doesn’t care. Seeing Sayoko radiating cozy, domestic wife vibes, a warm glint flickers in his eyes. Grabbing his toothbrush from the bathroom, he teases softly, “Up this early weaving a shimenawa? Careful, you might doze off at work later. The ‘divine lords’ won’t help you finish your tasks, you know.” 

“Ugh… but Tetsu-kun, your game launches today! And besides weaving a shimenawa, Sayoko can’t think of any other way to help you.” Kneeling on the tatami, Sayoko looks at the rope in her hands, her face a mix of nervousness and disappointment. “Sayoko’s so useless, isn’t she? Can’t help at all.” 

“Oh, come on, stop doubting yourself every time you’re nervous.” 

After brushing his teeth and wiping his face with a hot towel, Tetsu sits at the head of the kotatsu, pulling her pouty little face close for a couple of quick kisses. He picks up a steaming bowl of ramen, grinning. “Relax, everything’s under control. Plus, getting to eat your delicious cooking every day puts me in a great mood. Mmm, this broth’s extra rich today.” 

“Hehe, Tetsu-kun, your taste buds are so sharp! I learned this broth trick from a ‘secret recipe’ online,” Sayoko says, a sweet smile spreading across her face. 

Beaming at the praise, she gets up and slides next to Tetsu, her soft, curvy body leaning into his. She nuzzles his chin with her head, still weaving, though a hint of worry creeps back onto her face. 

If this game flops, Tetsu-kun’s going to have a tough time at the company, won’t he? 

She’s worried—really worried. But seeing the barely concealed exhaustion in Tetsu’s sidelong glance, Sayoko opens her mouth, then closes it, swallowing her concerns. Instead, she wiggles her peach in his lap, trying to lighten the mood. 

Feeling the playful pressure, Tetsu gives her an exasperated look as she stands up with a sultry grin. “Tetsu-kun’s heading into battle today, so you can’t tire yourself out too soon~” 

“Hey, you’re the one stirring up trouble first thing in the morning!” Tetsu retorts, half-annoyed, half-amused, as she teases him with no follow-through. “Alright, alright, go wake up Kui. Didn’t she say she’s got some music show audition today? Tell her if she’s not down here in five minutes, I’m not driving her. She can squeeze onto the subway!” 

“Pfft, Tetsu-kun’s such a tsundere. You got up twenty minutes early just to drive her~” 

“Go already! Stop bugging me!” 

“Okay, okay, don’t get mad!” Sayoko giggles. 

Tetsu playfully swats her grinning behind as she leans down to plant a sweet kiss on his cheek. Then, with a sway of her hips, she heads upstairs. 

Watching her go, the lightheartedness in Tetsu’s eyes shifts to seriousness, tinged with excitement. 

“Today’s the day!” 

Normally, the week or two between Christmas and New Year’s brings a bit of festive relief, even for overworked salarymen. But at NTsoft, the atmosphere’s growing heavier by the day. 

“My god! Divisions Three and Four are launching their games at noon today? They’re really going head-to-head!” 

“This is gonna be good! I heard Division Three snagged a B-tier marketing push! Their game’s getting a prime spot on OTTO’s homepage in the galgame category!” 

“B-tier marketing?! Tsk, tsk, looks like Division Three’s dead set on ruining Minister Miyano’s New Year. Throwing that kind of marketing budget at a galgame? Even if it sells like crazy, the profits won’t be huge.” 

“Yeah, the galgame market’s small. No matter how much you pump into it, it’s hard to make a blockbuster. Division Three’s going all in, huh?” 

“Not quite all in. They’ve got ARPGs and strategy turn-based games—big categories with plenty of marketing resources. A B-tier push isn’t a huge loss, just a bit painful. If they can block Minister Miyano’s advance and keep Division Four out of the ARPG race, they’ll secure way more at the annual meeting than a B-tier budget’s worth.” 

“Tch, corporate politics are wild. Just hearing about it feels… oh! Section Chief Fuyukawa’s here!” 

At 8:50 a.m., under the sneaky glances of countless employees, Tetsu Fuyukawa strides into NTsoft’s building, dressed in a sharp suit with Sayoko in tow. 

“Good morning, Section Chief Fuyukawa.” 

“Morning.” 

As usual, the moment he steps through the door, the receptionist, Miss Hatano, greets him as he adjusts his suit buttons. He nods with a smile, but unlike before, her eyes hold not just admiration but a hint of worry. 

“Looks like the whole company’s watching,” Tetsu mutters. 

Sensing the stares from all directions, his brows furrow slightly, but he doesn’t acknowledge them, not even with a glance. He just leads Sayoko swiftly to the elevator. 

Amusingly, when he arrives, many employees waiting for the elevator bow respectfully, then scurry to another door, stealing timid yet hopeful glances his way. 

Timid, yet expectant! 

Too scared to ride the same elevator! 

Afraid he might take out his bad mood on them! 

But also thinking, If Section Chief Fuyukawa wins, he’s gonna skyrocket. Should I say something to get on his good side early? 

“These guys…” 

Tetsu had been feeling serious, but the awkward, almost comical vibe lightens his mood as the elevator doors close. 

Sayoko, unaware of his thoughts, has been tense ever since they got out of the car, feeling the weight of everyone’s stares. Her head stays down, but once the elevator doors shut, she sneaks a glance at Tetsu’s expressionless profile, her heart aching for him. 

Her eyes shimmer with emotion. Checking the rising floor numbers to ensure no one’s coming, her face flushes as she grabs Tetsu’s hand and places it on her soft peach. 

“If… if Tetsu-kun’s feeling stressed, you can take it out on Sayoko.” 

“?!” 

Caught off guard, Tetsu freezes. But seeing her blushing, almost steaming face, a smile tugs at his lips. 

His hand slides from her peach, along her waist, up her back, and pulls her into his arms. Leaning down, he kisses her shampoo-scented hair gently. “Having you by my side right now is the best stress relief I could ask for.” 

“!” 

Her heart skips a beat. 

She’d braced for a playful squeeze, but his sudden tenderness makes her wide eyes—shimmering with emotion—snap up to meet his smiling gaze. “Tetsu-kun…” 

Before she can finish, he lifts her chin. 

Looking into her teary eyes, Tetsu’s grin widens. “But if I win this battle, tonight you’re wearing your old school uniform and waiting by the bed.” 

“Pfft~ Geez, Tetsu-kun’s such a perv at heart!” The emotional moment lightens with his teasing, and Sayoko wrinkles her nose cutely. But thinking of her old sailor uniform—and glancing at her impressive figure—she blushes harder. “That… that size won’t even fit anymore!” 

“That’s what makes it fun. Oh, and don’t forget the strawberry-patterned cotton.” 

Strawberry cotton and her size-93 peach? Sayoko’s face burns, and she tosses her head. “Tetsu-kun’s definitely into younger girls, huh!” 

Her mind flashes back to their first trip to Kabukicho, when Tetsu got handed a card that read, “Give me your love, Otosan.” 

Recalling the spark in his eyes back then, Sayoko clenches her little fists, stands on her tiptoes, and pecks his neck, her face crimson. “Well, come back victorious, Otosan.” 

“!” 

Divisions Three and Four’s games are both launching on the OTTO platform at noon, and the whole company’s buzzing with anticipation. Though both are small-scale games, for Division Four, aiming to break into the ARPG market, and Division Three, desperate to block them and hog the resources, this is the starting line! 

If Surrounded by Beauties is a hit, Minister Miyano will have the clout at the post-New Year shareholder meeting to challenge Division Three and demand ARPG rights! 

The annual meetings—start-of-year, mid-year, and year-end—are NTsoft’s biggest events, where major decisions like department roles are finalized! 

If Miyano fails this time, she’ll have to wait until the mid-year meeting. And the company’s old foxes all know why Chairman Tsuru brought her in! 

She’s a blade! 

A blade to cut out NTsoft’s internal rot! 

If that blade isn’t sharp, fast, or precise enough, Tsuru will dial back support—or replace it with a new one without mercy! 

But none of this chaos fazes Tetsu. He’s calmly handling paperwork in his office when, at 10 a.m., the door swings open. 

Under his gaze, Miyano Mitei, back in her sharp OL uniform, sways in with her signature strut. 

Her stilettos click as she strides to his desk, leaning forward to reveal a glimpse of lacy white trim, her tone sharp. “You’re awfully calm, huh? Do you know how long I’ve been waiting in my office—hey, hey, hey! What are you—mmph!” 

Before she can finish, Tetsu pulls her into his lap. 

Her curvy figure feels plush as she lands, and Tetsu’s clearly enjoying it. But she’s no lightweight—her judo training means her weight sends his chair sliding back. 

“Been working on your glutes? They’re feeling extra springy,” he teases. 

“You jerk! We’re talking business here!”  

She loves the scent of him, but today’s too important. Miyano squirms, but Tetsu doesn’t let her resist, wrapping his arms around her waist and burying his face in her fragrant neck for a deep inhale. 

“This is business,” he says. 

“Business? My ass! Let me go!” 

She struggles fiercely, clearly annoyed, this thorny rose not in the mood. Tetsu laughs, releasing her, then turns his laptop screen toward her. “I’m serious. Look at this.” 

“My ass, you horndog—” She stands, smoothing her skirt, glaring at him. But when her eyes hit the laptop screen, she freezes, turning to him in disbelief. “wh-hatt?”