61-65

Chapter 61: Get Down and Dogeza! 

The mood in the meeting room shifted, and many eyes turned toward Yamanaka Jichou with complicated expressions. 

Yamanaka had been in his thirties when he first led a game development team, giving him far more connections and experience than Fuyukawa Tetsu. Back then, fighting games were taking the world by storm, and NTsoft’s Department Four was at its peak. Even with just a D-level marketing budget, the sheer clout of “NTsoft Department Four” brought more traffic and exposure than the department’s current C-level budget could dream of. 

This was a hopelessly uneven fight. Fuyukawa’s odds of winning were slim to none. 

Any fleeting sympathy for Yamanaka evaporated from the room. His earlier sob story had done its job, though—no one dared voice opposition, not even Miyano Mitei. All eyes zeroed in on Fuyukawa. 

He was cornered. 

Just moments ago, he’d questioned Yamanaka’s competence, and now the older man was daring him to prove his own. This bet was a trap—refuse, and he’d lose face; accept, and he was likely doomed. 

Around the long table, employees exchanged glances, some smirking, ready for the drama. Miyano’s brow furrowed with concern, but Fuyukawa met Yamanaka’s gaze head-on and nodded coolly. “If you want to go down swinging, I’ll humor you.” 

“...!” 

“...!” 

“...!” 

Go down swinging? 

His words echoed through the lavish meeting room, stunning everyone. Jaws dropped, eyes widened, but Fuyukawa wasn’t done. A cold glint flashed in his eyes as he locked onto Yamanaka. “Oh, and I hear you’ve said some pretty vile things to my subordinate. If my project outsells yours, I want you, old man, to do a dogeza right in front of the Firefly Studio office!” 

Dogeza?! 

Outsell him, and demand a dogeza? That was insane! The room erupted into chaos, voices buzzing with shock. 

Even Miyano’s eyes widened, staring at Fuyukawa in disbelief. But then she caught his earlier words: “You’ve said some pretty vile things to my subordinate.” Her mind flashed to Sayoko, head bowed, meekly mopping the floor. Glancing at Fuyukawa’s blazing eyes, a thought struck her. 

Is it that woman? 

Sayoko had been with Firefly Studio before. Fuyukawa usually took power struggles in stride. He’d crush his opponents without mercy but rarely held personal grudges. Losing was just part of the game—everyone fought for their own interests, fair or foul. But Yamanaka was different. 

Sayoko had worked at NTsoft for seven years, three of them at Firefly. Under Japan’s seniority system, she should’ve been promoted to section chief by now. The role was mostly ceremonial, with a modest pay bump and little real power, but for someone like Sayoko, who was strapped for cash, it was critical. Yet Yamanaka, after failing to coerce her into an unspoken “arrangement,” had blocked her promotion, docked her pay with flimsy excuses, and publicly humiliated her, calling her incompetent in front of the entire studio. 

That timid, fearful demeanor Sayoko had when Fuyukawa first met her? A big part of it stemmed from Yamanaka’s shadow. 

Fuyukawa had been itching to take the old man down for a while. This opportunity had come faster than expected. As for the gossip about him being “arrogant” or “disrespectful”? He couldn’t care less. 

His eyes bore into Yamanaka, who clearly hadn’t expected the dogeza demand. The older man’s composure cracked, his face twisting with fury. After a long pause, he sneered, “Dogeza? Fine, I accept! Let’s see what a punk like you can do! But if you lose…” 

“If I lose, you’re my daddy!” Fuyukawa shot back. 

With Dead or Alive’s catastrophic failure and the brewing conflict between Miyano and Yamanaka, today’s monthly department meeting had the entire company’s attention. Other departments were watching closely, but for Department Four and Firefly Studio, it was make-or-break. 

“Think Firefly’ll get axed after this mess?” one employee whispered. 

“Nah, it’s the department’s flagship. At most, they’ll demote Yamanaka,” another replied. 

“Demote him? That’s letting him off easy. You weren’t at HQ last year, but there was this new girl, Nagata Shoko, I think? She got chewed out for two hours just because the tea she served Yamanaka’s guest was too hot. She lasted three months at Firefly before the stress got so bad she slit her wrists. Nearly didn’t make it. It was a big deal, but Yamanaka’s the former department head’s guy, so it got hushed up.” 

“What?! That happened? I…” 

Yamanaka might get demoted? 

In a bathroom stall, Sayoko, dressed in a fitted skirt, sat on the toilet, pulling a tissue from her bag. Overhearing the LINE voice chat from the next stall, her delicate brows furrowed, memories flooding back. 

She saw a timid woman standing in an office, surrounded by mocking stares, sketch drafts scattered at her feet after being thrown in her face. In front of her stood a short, bald man in a garish gold suit, berating her. Another memory: a woman in a worn floral dress sitting in a hospital corridor, clutching a bill, her phone displaying a message: “Come to my place tonight. We’ll discuss your section chief promotion.” 

The memories tightened Sayoko’s fists, fear still lingering in her eyes. Workplace bullying, like schoolteacher gaslighting, left deep scars—sometimes lifelong. The pain wasn’t just from the words or the hit to her pride. It was like a horror movie: the moment itself wasn’t the worst part. It was the endless replay in her mind, the self-doubt, the mental exhaustion. 

How many newbies had lost sleep over a boss’s harsh words? How many hesitated, second-guessing themselves after a scolding? For Sayoko, Yamanaka’s relentless torment had driven her to severe insomnia, unable to sleep without melatonin or pills. 

But then… 

“Things are better now,” she thought. She didn’t care about Yamanaka’s potential demotion or feel any glee over it. Instead, Fuyukawa’s image flashed in her mind, and the fear in her eyes began to fade. A small smile curved her lips. 

Then, a voice from the next stall broke through. “What?! Fuyukawa-san went head-to-head with Yamanaka at the meeting?!” 

“Shh, keep it down!” 

“Come on, spill! Fuyukawa-san challenged a jichou? And Yamanaka of all people, with his seniority?” 

“Quiet, you idiot! I heard from Fujitani, who was serving tea at the meeting. It started with Yamanaka and Miyano going at it, but somehow the fight shifted to Fuyukawa-san. When Fujitani went back with more tea, she saw him point at Yamanaka and say, ‘I hear you’ve said some vile things to my subordinate. If my project outsells yours, I want you, old man, to do a dogeza in front of Firefly’s office!’” 

“Dogeza?! Holy crap, Fuyukawa-san’s got guts! That’s so badass!” 

“Right? And get this—he said if he loses, he’ll call Yamanaka ‘daddy.’ Tsk, a section chief mouthing off to a deputy head like that? I’ve been here years and never seen anything like it.” 

“Me neither! But who’s this subordinate he’s so pissed about?” 

“No clue, but Firefly’s a small team. Shouldn’t be hard to find out—” 

The chatter continued, but in her stall, Sayoko’s head dropped. Her toes curled, and a flush crept up her neck beneath her dark hair. After a long moment, she hunched forward like a shrimp, hands cupping her face. Soft, muffled sobs echoed in the stall. 

Chapter 62: The Matter Settled 

There’s no such thing as an airtight wall.  

Before the meeting even ended, word of Tetsu Fuyukawa’s clash with Deputy Director Yamanaka had spread like wildfire through the company.  

As quitting time approached, gossip-hungry employees found excuses to linger in the break room, sneaking glances at the meeting room door, hoping to catch more juicy details.  

At 4:43 p.m., the door swung open. Department 4’s core staff, dressed in suits and white shirts, filed out with stern expressions, their dress shoes clicking against the tiled corridor.  

“The vibe is so tense. The rumors must be true!” 

“No way they’re fake—who’d dare spread something like that? But why hasn’t Yamanaka come out yet? Is he still in there arguing with Section Chief Fuyukawa?” 

“Haha, he’s probably too embarrassed to show his face! He got humiliated big time. Honestly, I don’t think Fuyukawa stands much of a chance, but I’m rooting for him. Yamanaka’s such a jerk. I’m not even in his team, but last time I ran into him in the bathroom, he told me to unclog the toilet! Said it’d ‘save the company some expenses.’ Total power trip. He just loves bossing people around!” 

“Shh, keep it down! He’s a veteran. If he hears you, you’re screwed. Still… I think Fuyukawa’s in over his head. Over 70,000 units sold? For a niche, low-budget project?” 

“Yeah, it’s rough! Oh—look, Yamanaka’s coming out!”  

Under the sneaky gazes of the break room crowd, Yamanaka stormed out, his face dark with anger, clutching his briefcase. His naturally tanned skin, paired with that gaudy gold suit, radiated a “stay away” aura. Trailing behind him was his lanky subordinate, his gaunt face twisted in a scowl, glaring at passing employees. If he caught even a hint of defiance in their eyes, he let loose a tirade of insults.  

His shouting echoed down the corridor. It was the classic move of a humiliated boss taking it out on underlings—a pathetic display, but no one dared challenge them in that moment.  

“Ugh, what a bunch of cowards! Too scared to confront Section Chief Fuyukawa, so they lash out at us regular folks!” 

“Serves them right for getting chewed out by Fuyukawa. Spineless bullies!” 

“Yeah, but… why hasn’t Fuyukawa come out yet?”  

The break room crew craned their necks, curiously eyeing the meeting room door. Even as the secretary, Yuzuka Ura, emerged with a stack of files and closed the door behind her, Tetsu was nowhere to be seen.  

Is Section Chief Fuyukawa still talking with Director Miyano?  

The girls in the break room exchanged glances.  

They weren’t wrong—Tetsu did have business with Miyako Miyano, but the scene wasn’t quite what they imagined.  

...  

“You did great today. So, how should your big sister reward you—ah!”  

In the long-table meeting room, Miyako sauntered down from the head seat, her curvy hips swaying in her tight skirt. She leaned close to Tetsu, her dark hair brushing her smooth, pale neck as she whispered in his ear, her eyes gleaming with excitement. But before she could finish, Tetsu pulled her into his lap.  

Their lips locked fiercely.  

“Mmph—!”  

Miyako’s eyes widened in surprise, and she squirmed instinctively.  

“Be good,” Tetsu murmured, his voice low.  

“Mmm…”  

God, he’s getting bolder!  

What does he take me for?!  

Feeling his arms tighten around her waist, her breathing grew labored. Miyako shot him an annoyed glare, but as the saying goes, her body betrayed her words. As Tetsu’s grip intensified, her tension melted away. Her arms slid up to wrap around his neck, and her misty eyes fluttered shut.  

The room grew quiet, filled only with the sound of their heated breaths.  

After a long moment, their lips parted.  

“You bit my lip,” Miyako complained, her voice soft.  

One hand resting on her back, the other casually on her stocking-clad thigh, Tetsu smirked at the flushed beauty in his arms. He gave her thigh a playful squeeze. “That desperate, huh?”  

“Nngh— Tch, who’s the desperate one here?! I’m only rewarding you because you did so well today! Don’t think you can just do whatever you want with me!”  

Blushing furiously, Miyako let out a small whimper at the squeeze but quickly wrinkled her nose and shoved his chest. She stood, smoothing out her wrinkled skirt and tucking her slightly messy hair behind her shoulder. Changing the subject, she said, “You really held your own today and shut him down, but…”  

“I know, I know. It all comes down to results,” Tetsu cut in. Under her half-shy, half-annoyed gaze, he adjusted his position, pulled a cigarette from his pocket, and lit it.  

Honestly, the meeting hadn’t stressed him out too much. Everything went as planned. But arguing with a lowlife like Yamanaka was annoying in itself.  

He exhaled a plume of smoke, rolled up his shirt sleeves, grabbed an ashtray from the table, and flicked the ash. “Seventy thousand units isn’t a big deal.”  

“Not a big deal? Tch, cocky as ever!”  

Miyako crossed her arms under her ample chest, her sharp eyes rolling. “Sure, 70,000 units is nothing for a big IP or a high-budget project. But what do you have? A measly 100 million yen budget, a niche genre, and you’re a rookie who’s never made a game before!”  

Tetsu raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Small?”  

“…”  

Definitely not small. More like… massive.  

A flicker of embarrassment crossed Miyako’s fox-like eyes, but her face stayed cool and haughty as she glared at him. “Ugh, you filthy guy! Stop with the dirty talk, or I’ll dock your pay! Also…”  

Her expression turned serious. “You may have put Yamanaka in his place today, but he knows what failure means for him. He won’t resort to anything illegal or stop you from making the game, but if the sales tank after launch, he’ll come back swinging—harder than today.”  

At this meeting, Yamanaka had fired his shots, but Miyako was still on the rise. Aside from her loyalists, no one dared back him up. Still, Yamanaka was a 30-year NTsoft veteran.  

He might be a jerk to newbies, but the world doesn’t reward the kind or punish the cruel. The hardest-working grunts often get the least, while sleazy bosses like Yamanaka, who bully subordinates, are masters at kissing up to the right people.  

Yamanaka had connections within NTsoft. To use them, he needed an opening—a reason for his allies to step in. That reason hinged on the outcome of this bet.  

Tetsu understood this perfectly. Glancing at the clock, he stubbed out his cigarette, stood, and adjusted his suit. “Got it. Alright, I’m heading out.”  

Miyako smirked playfully. “Go on, but keep your eyes on work. Don’t spend all your time flirting with your female subordinates.”  

“…” 

Chapter 63: Pure and Beautiful Girl 

Today was Izumi Himawari’s birthday. 

Normally, even though Fuyukawa Tetsu had grown closer to Izumi Himawari over time, he wouldn’t pay much attention to a kid’s birthday. But this was different—it was her 18th, her coming-of-age ceremony in Japan. He had to at least make a gesture. 

“Good evening, Team Leader Fuyukawa!” 

“Mm, stay safe on your way home.” 

“Take care of yourself, Team Leader! Don’t work too late.” 

Lost in thoughts about what to eat for dinner, Fuyukawa made his way back to Lightbird Studio, greeted by a mix of admiration and awe from the employees. 

Lightbird Studio was a newly established small studio, tucked away in a corner of the building. It was past regular hours, and with Kawaguchi and Nogi still helping out at the film set, the corridor was eerily quiet as he approached the studio’s entrance. 

“Companies, schools, and hospitals at night are the creepiest places in the world. Huh, where’s Sayoko?” 

Peering through the window while fishing out his keys, Fuyukawa noticed the office bathed in dim light, with only the sunset casting a glow across the desks. 

Curious, he unlocked the door and stepped inside. But the moment he reached his cubicle, a soft, curvaceous figure enveloped him from behind. 

“!” 

Startled, Fuyukawa instinctively raised his elbow, but the faint scent of shampoo told him exactly who it was. 

“Come on, aren’t you too old to play hide-and-seek?” 

Hanging his briefcase on the rack, Fuyukawa chuckled and opened his right arm, pulling Sayoko from behind him to his front. Unlike usual, she didn’t look up. Instead, her pale arms clung tightly to his back, her flushed cheeks pressing against his chest through his white shirt. Rubbing gently, she murmured playfully, “Let me hug you a bit longer. Hmm… Tetsu-kun, you smell like another woman’s perfume.” 

“…” 

Fuyukawa’s smile froze awkwardly. But then Sayoko lifted her head, her gentle, sensual face streaked with faint tears, her eyes brimming with adoration and shyness. 

Feeling “little Tetsu” pressed against her, Sayoko’s gaze grew even more bashful. Her lips, adorned with a beauty mark, parted softly. “But… it doesn’t seem like anything happened.” 

“Uh…” 

A bit embarrassed, Fuyukawa was about to say something when, to his surprise, Sayoko slid down to her knees in front of him. 

The sunset streamed through the window, illuminating the room. Her knees, wrapped in black stockings, touched the floor, her full figure leaning slightly forward. 

“Here’s your reward, Tetsu-kun.” 

“Hiss.” 

“Looks like… you prefer the sweet and obedient Sayoko, don’t you?” 

“Hiss—” 

While Fuyukawa was “unloading,” over at Tokiwadai High School in Tokyo… 

“Izumi-san, are you free tonight? I was wondering if—” 

“Sorry, I’m busy.” 

“…Sorry for bothering you!” 

On the school field, bathed in the glow of the setting sun, a handsome male student ran off, wiping tears. Konno Yumi, gulping water, glanced at Izumi Himawari beside her and grinned. “I heard that guy’s the new ace of the soccer club, super popular with the girls. Not even a little interested?” 

“Just a kid.” 

Leaning against the horizontal bar, Izumi Himawari blew a pink bubble with her gum, her soft, mochi-like face expressionless, her eyes half-lidded in her signature deadpan stare. 

It was the weekend, and she wore the iconic Japanese schoolgirl JK uniform. Her youthful, 18-year-old frame only slightly filled out the white blouse, a far cry from Sayoko’s “snow pomelos.” But her long, slender legs, wrapped in black thigh-high stockings and tucked into black loafers, combined with the pure, innocent aura of an 18-year-old, drew plenty of stares from the boys on the field. 

A stunningly pure and beautiful girl. 

But as her best friend, Konno Yumi was immune to Izumi’s charm. Wiping sweat from her chin after a 1,000-meter run, she rolled her eyes. “Oh, come on. A kid? You’re eighteen yourself! What, you looking for some old guy or something?” 

“Idiot. Maturity isn’t about age. Take you, Yumi—18 years old, but you act like a starry-eyed 15- or 16-year-old fangirl.” 

“…Get over here!” 

“Ugh, all you know is violence! You’ll never get a guy like this—hey, don’t get your sweat on my clothes!” 

After a playful scuffle, Izumi’s cool facade finally cracked, her usual apathetic expression giving way to a pout. 

Watching her grumpily fix her hair, Yumi giggled and sipped her water. But her gaze soon drifted to the guitar nearby, her expression turning complex. “Hey, are you really quitting the light music club?” 

Izumi, wiping sweat from her neck with a handkerchief, froze. Her brows furrowed, then slowly relaxed. 

She tucked the handkerchief into her pocket and nodded lightly. “Yeah.” 

“That’s over two years of your heart and soul! If it weren’t for you as the lead singer and songwriter, who’d even know about Tokiwadai’s light music club? If you ask me, they’re the ones who should leave, not you! You should kick them out!” 

“No point.” 

“No point?! You’ve always been like this since we were kids! You just run away from problems! What are you afraid of?!” 

Yumi gritted her teeth, frustrated but mostly upset for her friend. 

Tokiwadai’s light music club was well-known in Tokyo’s high school club scene, even beyond. With frequent gigs and their unique high school band vibe, they’d caught the attention of music companies. But that fame only came after Izumi joined Tokiwadai and built the club from the ground up. She’d begged teachers for approval, handed out flyers class by class, and her singing and songwriting had put them on the map. 

But now… 

Yumi’s eyes flicked to the pink hearing aid in Izumi’s ear, her anger turning to helplessness. 

Sensing her friend’s concern, Izumi’s usually expressionless face softened into a faint smile. “Running away might be cowardly, but it works, doesn’t it? I don’t want to beg to stay in a group that doesn’t want me anymore. 

“And honestly, I get it. Who’d want a lead singer who could go deaf at any moment? Kosaki and the others need the gig money to get by.” 

“You—” 

They only kicked you out because they found some rich girl with a music background who loves to sing! 

Yumi screamed internally, but seeing Izumi’s calm, detached eyes—always distant from the world—she sighed. “Fine, as long as you’re okay with it. Oh, it’s almost time. Aunt Sayoko’s coming soon, right?” 

“Mm, we agreed on 6:30. Fifteen minutes to go.” 

Checking her watch, Izumi nodded absently. Yumi grinned. “Yes! I get to taste Aunt Sayoko’s cooking again! You don’t know how bad my brother’s cooking has gotten lately—” 

“We’re eating out tonight.” 

“Huh?” 

“Not just Sayoko. There’s… an old guy coming too.” 

“Eating out?! Why didn’t you tell me sooner?! I need a shower! Wait for me at the gate!” 

Drenched in sweat, Yumi shot her a glare and bolted toward the school building. 

“What an immature girl.” 

Watching her friend’s retreating figure, Izumi slung her guitar over her shoulder and headed toward the school gate. At the same time, a group of girls approached from the other side of the avenue. 

“Risa’s voice is amazing! Our gig at the Night Club tonight is gonna be a hit!” 

“Seriously, Risa’s incredible. She even got Kawagen-sensei to write a song for us. That’s huge!” 

“Risa, you’ve gotta keep looking out for us!” 

The girls, carrying various instruments, chattered excitedly around a tall girl with a designer shoulder bag. 

The mood was lively, but the moment they spotted Izumi walking alone, the group fell silent. 

Their eyes darted away, avoiding Izumi’s calm, pale gaze. Only Risa, at the center, met her eyes. 

The night breeze stirred. Locking gazes, Risa gave a slight bow. “Good afternoon, Izumi-senpai.” 

Izumi said nothing. Realizing no one else would greet her, the 18-year-old, her face impassive, felt a pang in her chest, her lips dipping slightly. She returned a small bow and walked out the gate. 

As she did, a black Volkswagen pulled up. 

“You just had to stop for a cake and almost made us late!” 

“Hmph, you’re such an unromantic guy, Tetsu-kun~” 

In the driver’s seat, Fuyukawa took a sip from his water bottle and nodded with a smile at Izumi outside. Sayoko, after playfully poking his cheek, stepped out with a delicate little cake in hand, beaming at Izumi. “Happy housing birthday, Koko!” 

Chapter 64: Music Bar 

“Happy birthday, Koi!” 

A gentle evening breeze drifts through the bustling school gate, where cars and crowds weave in and out. 

Under the curious glances of parents and students, Sayoko steps out of the car, checks for traffic, and jogs across the street with a bright smile, approaching Izumi Himawari. 

For Koi’s eighteenth birthday, despite their hectic schedules, Sayoko made time to touch up her makeup and dress up. She’s wearing a thick Yuki coat over a light teal autumn blouse, paired with a fitted floral skirt that hugs her pear-shaped figure, exuding a refined, intellectual charm. 

Ignoring the onlookers, Sayoko holds up a small cherry cake, her face beaming with pride. “After today, our Koi’s officially an adult, ready to take on the world! Excited?” 

The cake is a snowy white tower of layers, adorned with creamy swirls and vibrant cherries. It looks delicious, but to Sayoko’s surprise, Izumi Himawari doesn’t light up with joy. Her lips tremble, pulling downward before forcing a strained smile. Moments later, her usually stoic eyes soften into pools of jelly, and she dives into Sayoko’s ample embrace. 

“Huh?” 

This isn’t Sayoko’s first time celebrating Koi’s birthday, but she’s never seen a reaction this intense. Feeling the dampness against her chest, Sayoko’s gentle eyes widen. Holding the cake in one hand, she hurriedly wraps her arms around Koi. “What’s wrong? Did something happen?” 

Confused, Sayoko looks up as a few girls from the light music club step out of the school gate. 

“Yume, Saki, you’re here! What’s going on with Koi?” 

The light music club often gathered at Sayoko’s place, so these girls are familiar faces. Holding the sobbing Koi, Sayoko greets them warmly, but her smile falters as the club members only offer polite nods before hurrying along the wall and leaving. 

“Is she… being ostracized?” 

Across the street, inside the black Volkswagen, Fuyukawa Tetsu raises an eyebrow, takes a drag of his cigarette, and chuckles, shaking his head. “Well, she got what she asked for, didn’t she?” 

They say university is a microcosm of society, but really, anywhere with tangled interests is its own little world. 

Koi’s always been a bit possessive—prickly with him, at least—so Fuyukawa rarely chats with the kid. Still, he’s heard bits about the light music club from Sayoko. 

The club calls itself a band, but Izumi Himawari handles vocals, lyrics, and composition. By all rights, she should have full control. But it’s clear she’s a lonely kid, craving connection. 

“Craving connection” isn’t quite right—lonely is more accurate. 

Lonely people tend to show three traits: 

Some are painfully shy. 

Others mask their insecurity with overblown confidence. 

Then there are those who seem outgoing, easily blending into groups, but if you look closely, they’re always a step apart—present yet distant. 

It’s all a defense mechanism, a way to escape the ache of solitude. 

To Fuyukawa, Izumi Himawari’s story screams loneliness. She lost her mother young, got stuck with a cruel stepmother, then lost her hearing in a car accident. Passed around relatives like a hot potato, she likely saw the light music club as a second family. 

Whether performing gigs or posting songs online, she always credited “Tokiwadai Light Music Club” instead of her own name. 

Fuyukawa doesn’t think that’s wrong or naive. Life’s short—decades fly by. If you’re all about profit and end up with no one you can truly trust, that’s a tragedy. But the problem is… 

“There’s nothing wrong with giving your all. The mistake is giving it to the wrong people.” 

“That girl’s still too young.” 

Watching Sayoko, her face grim, lead a teary Himawari across the street, Fuyukawa shakes his head with a wry smile, flicking his cigarette butt into the roadside gutter. 

Night falls, stars twinkling above. 

The black Volkswagen cruises through Shinjuku’s neon-lit streets, alive with color and noise. 

Outside, the city pulses; inside, the mood is heavy. 

Betrayal by friends? For adults with thick skin, it’s no big deal—just something to grumble about over drinks with new buddies before moving on. But for a seventeen- or eighteen-year-old girl, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. 

Sayoko and her best friend, Yumi Kengo, fuss over Himawari, trying to cheer her up. Fuyukawa, uninterested in coddling kids, focuses on driving. Soon, the car pulls up to a music restaurant called Heavy Gunner. 

The name Heavy Gunner screams bold flavors. 

The owner’s from Sichuan, and the menu boasts fiery hotpot, spicy crawfish, and all sorts of Sichuan dishes—done to perfection.  

Of course, being in Shinjuku, Japanese cuisine is available too, depending on what customers want. But Sichuan flavors dominate. 

As they step inside, the sharp, spicy aroma of hotpot hits them. 

“Whoa, it smells amazing! I’ve lived in Tokyo for years and never knew about this place! Is this the legendary Sichuan cuisine? So cool—Chinese food is incredible!”  

The air is thick with spice and the lively vibe of a bar. Dimly lit, with heavy metal rock blaring, the place caters to a younger crowd. It’s too loud for “middle-aged” folks like Fuyukawa, who avoid bars, but for young people, it’s perfect. 

Yumi’s eyes sparkle as she takes it all in. Even Himawari, downcast all day, perks up in the vibrant atmosphere, the clouds in her expression lifting slightly. 

Noticing the change, Sayoko giggles and loops her arm around Fuyukawa’s, pressing her soft curves against him. She whispers with a shy smile, “I keep troubling you, Tetsu-kun. I’m almost embarrassed.” 

The place is great, but it’s pricey. With Himawari’s upcoming surgery, Sayoko’s been tight on cash lately. 

The dim lighting emboldens her, and Fuyukawa doesn’t play the gentleman. His left hand, caught in her embrace, slides to her soft, peach-like curves, giving a light squeeze. “No need to talk like that between us.” 

“Eek! Tetsu-kun, there are people around~”  

Sayoko blushes, squirming under his touch, glancing around nervously. Seeing no one’s watching, her eyes spark with excitement. Leaning closer, she murmurs, “Wasn’t this afternoon… enough?” 

Her tongue flicks lightly against his neck. 

“You little minx! Just wait till tonight—I’ll teach you a lesson!” 

Chapter 65: The Ace of Tokiwadai 

As their bond grew closer, Sayoko became more relaxed around him. Tetsu Fuyukawa chuckled, playfully flexing his left hand like a dragon’s claw, ignoring the envious glance from a guy nearby. He led the trio to a table near the central stage. 

Unlike those music restaurants that falsely advertise live performances while blasting music through speakers, this place actually hosted small touring bands every night. Right now, a group of long-haired rockers was on stage, gripping microphones and guitars, belting out wild shouts. 

To be honest, their outfits were a bit too over-the-top for Tetsu’s taste, even for rock musicians. He wasn’t impressed but didn’t judge the young performers either as he grabbed the menu to order. In Japan, the most exceptional entertainment—whether novels, movies, music, or games—often stems from raw, intense emotions. But that creativity thrives only in an open, accepting environment, which is why Japan has become the world’s second-most influential cultural powerhouse. 

There’s little room here for narrow-minded takes like, “If I don’t like it, it shouldn’t exist,” or “What I don’t like is tasteless,” or “This stuff is beneath my refined taste—only unsophisticated folks would enjoy it.” That kind of nonsense doesn’t fly. 

After ordering, Tetsu sipped his beer, listening to the music. Sayoko, meanwhile, carefully steered clear of sensitive topics, chatting with the two younger girls about funny behind-the-scenes stories from their theater crew. Himawari Izumi’s mood lightened, but Tetsu just rolled his eyes. 

Work had been stressful for him lately, and Sayoko was under just as much pressure. Yet here she was, still taking the time to cheer up Himawari. 

“What a silly woman,” Tetsu muttered under his breath. 

Feeling a bit annoyed, he scooted closer to Sayoko. With his left hand, he raised his beer for a sip, while his right hand slipped into the gap between Sayoko’s curves and the sofa. 

“Eek!” Sayoko jumped, startled by the sneak attack. She shot Tetsu a shy glance. Their table, flanked by two sofas and tucked against the wall in dim lighting, offered just enough privacy. She subtly adjusted her position, her floral dress shifting slightly, and gave Tetsu a playful glare before resuming her chat with the girls. 

Tetsu had little interest in their girl talk. He just kept sipping his beer, casually kneading the “peach” beside him, and watching the long-haired rockers scream on stage. It was a carefree moment. Soon, the waiter brought their hotpot bases. 

Himawari and her best friend, Yumi Konno, each got small pots, while Tetsu and Sayoko shared a large yin-yang hotpot. Honestly, though, the yin-yang pot was kind of pointless. The Sichuan-style spicy broth had a unique charm. After tasting a piece of tofu soaked in the fiery broth, Sayoko abandoned the milder three-delicacy pot. She fanned her mouth, gasping for air, and asked Tetsu to pour her some water while she eagerly dunked more tripe into the spicy side. 

But, as anyone who’s eaten spicy food knows, drinking hot water afterward only makes it worse. 

Realizing this, Sayoko gave up on the water and grabbed Tetsu’s beer, chugging it down in two big gulps. Yumi, sitting across from them, looked on in awe. The consequence? Sayoko’s lips soon swelled into little sausages. Sweating and flushed, she tied her dark hair up, stood, and handed her bag to Tetsu. “Watch my bag for me. I’m heading to the restroom. Himawari, want to come?” 

“No, I’m good. I didn’t drink much,” Himawari replied. 

“Alright. Tetsu, toss some pig’s blood into the spicy pot for me.” 

“Got it, you greedy little pig,” Tetsu teased. 

“Hmph!” Sayoko huffed, swaying her hips as she headed to the restroom. 

As Tetsu sipped his beer and listened to the music, the table grew quiet without Sayoko’s lively presence. I’m only twenty, and I’m already playing dad? Tough life, Tetsu thought, glancing at Himawari, whose expression still carried a hint of gloom. With a wry smile, he slid a beer toward her. “Want a sip?” 

Japan’s an interesting place. You can get married at eighteen, but you’re not supposed to drink or smoke until twenty. Rules like that exist everywhere, but they’re rarely enforced. In a smoky, lively place like this, as long as you don’t look blatantly underage, no one cares if you have a drink or a cigarette. 

Himawari didn’t respond, just giving Tetsu a skeptical look. Yumi, clutching her juice, chimed in with a grin, “Hey, uncle, you’re up to no good! Sayoko-auntie’s barely gone, and you’re already trying to get Himawari drunk? Too bad for you—she never drinks.” 

Tetsu shrugged, unfazed by the cheeky teen. He took a big swig of his beer, let out a satisfied “ahh,” and looked at Himawari with a casual smile. “I just think it’s not worth letting small stuff ruin your day.” 

“Small stuff?!” Yumi piped up, indignant. “Uncle, you may be handsome, and we’re grateful you’re treating Himawari for her birthday, but do you even know what the light music club means to her—” 

Before Yumi could finish, Himawari, to everyone’s shock, grabbed a glass, filled it to the brim from the beer tap, and chugged half of it in one go! This was only her second time drinking, and such a huge gulp at that. 

The alcohol hit her stomach, her eyes turning slightly bloodshot. She slammed the glass down on the table. 

Yumi froze, stunned. Himawari, known for her cool, aloof demeanor, drinking so boldly? Unbelievable. After a moment, Himawari let out a loud “hic,” completely breaking her composed image. 

Yumi burst into laughter, and Himawari’s face flushed—whether from embarrassment or the alcohol, it was hard to tell. Catching the faint amusement in Tetsu’s eyes, she fell silent. After a moment’s hesitation, she met his slightly tipsy gaze and asked, “Is life always this painful? Or is it just like this when you’re young?” 

A classic line. 

Tetsu hadn’t expected such a question. He thought for a moment, took a big gulp of beer, and looked into Himawari’s clear eyes. With a shrug, he said, “For someone like you, probably always.” 

“Why? What do you mean it’ll always be painful for Himawari?” Yumi jumped in, bristling. “Hey, uncle, you’re really—” 

Himawari stopped her, tugging her arm, and turned back to Tetsu. “You’re saying personality shapes destiny, right? If I keep acting on my impulsive whims, I’ll keep running into pain. Is that it?” 

“Yes and no,” Tetsu said with a grin, shrugging again. “Personality does shape destiny, but no one can completely change who they are. Unless you’re a born villain or a natural hero, for most people raised with standard morals—especially soft-hearted ones like you—it’s a paradox. 

If you force yourself to become a cold, self-serving person, sure, you might avoid some losses. You might even get a ‘happy ending.’ But in doing so, you’ll take on a different kind of pain. You’ll be doing things you hate, and in the end, you’ll still lie awake at night, hurting, questioning if life even has meaning.” 

He met her gaze again. “Pain in the process or pain in the outcome—as an ordinary person, you’ve got to pick one. It just depends on which matters more to you.” 

Both paths seemed like dead ends. 

Himawari’s fists clenched unconsciously, her eyes dimming. Then, suddenly, her gaze widened, staring ahead in shock. Yumi, mid-bite of a shrimp, froze too, her eyes wide. 

“Saki? Why are they here?!” Yumi gasped. “Didn’t they say they were going to a nightclub?” 

Tetsu, his arm draped over the sofa, turned to look. The girls they’d seen at the school gate that afternoon were now on stage, instruments in hand, greeted by cheers and applause from the crowd. 

“Isn’t that Tokiwadai’s light music club? The high school girl band?” someone nearby said. 

“Yeah, I heard them at a nightclub once. Their lead singer is insane—such powerful vocals, thick and steady high notes that give you chills!” 

“And let’s be real, they’re gorgeous. Those pleated skirts, long legs in thigh-high socks—pure, top-tier beauty. First time I’ve seen girls like that!” 

“No kidding, you’re into legs too? Bro, we’re brothers now! Wait… did they change the lead singer?” 

“Yeah, looks like it. But her legs are pretty great too!” 

After two years of hard work, the light music club had built a decent reputation. The switch in lead singer sparked some curious murmurs, but as an unsigned high school band, they didn’t exactly have a loyal fanbase. Most people just asked a question or two and then clapped for the girls on stage. 

How could this be… 

Himawari stared in disbelief. The same crowd that had just been talking about her was now cheering for the stage. Her former friends, singing happily up there—something in her clear eyes seemed to crumble. 

The spotlight faded. 

Her clenched fists slowly loosened, and she slumped back in her seat, drained. At that moment, Tetsu pulled an envelope from Sayoko’s bag, took out a sheet of music, and handed it to her. 

“What’s this…?” Himawari asked, looking up blankly. 

Tetsu smiled. “You know, what I said earlier wasn’t entirely right. The world doesn’t run on cause-and-effect logic. In relationships, the ones who give the most, who suffer the most, often end up with the loneliest endings. 

A painful process doesn’t guarantee a happy outcome, and a joyful process doesn’t guarantee a painful one. But a joyful process is happiness you can actually hold onto. So… don’t get lost in doubting life. Just do what you want to do right now.” 

He shifted slightly, giving her a clear view of the stage. “Don’t forget the past, but don’t reject it either. That’s pointless—your memories are always there, whether you like it or not. 

All you can do is carry your past and move forward bravely. Go on, show them who the real ace of Tokiwadai is. Let them see exactly who they left behind!”