Chapter 192: City Councilman’s Nomination! Mayor’s Family Banquet Invitation! Ikuna Sakuruda’s Surprise!
The telephone call ended, and Hiroshi Nohara maintained the posture of holding the phone, a trace of formality and excitement from his conversation with the mayor still lingering on his dark, honest face.
Inside, Ginnosuke Nohara and Tsuru Nohara were like two statues under a spell, their mouths slightly ajar, eyes fixed on their eldest son, their expressions as if they had seen a ghost in broad daylight.
“Gulp.”
Ginnosuke Nohara swallowed with difficulty, breaking the eerie silence. His usually shifty eyes were wide open, filled with disbelief.
“It… it was just an Akita dog…” he stammered, his voice trembling as if he had just experienced an illusion, “And the mayor himself actually called?!”
In his entire life, the old man had never spoken to the mayor, and even seeing the mayor’s motorcade from afar on the street would make him quickly move aside, fearing he might obstruct the benefactor’s path.
But now, the mayor himself called his son over a few dogs, and his tone was so polite, so friendly!
This was more intoxicating than drinking a whole bottle of Juyondai!
“Exactly!” Tsuru Nohara also recovered her senses. She patted her chest, her well-maintained face equally filled with shock and confusion. “Although Akita dogs are a specialty of our Akita Prefecture, they are, in the end, just village dogs that you see everywhere, aren’t they? Why… why would the mayor himself have to call to ask for them? And he said… to give them to friends in Tokyo?”
The old couple exchanged glances, seeing the same confusion in each other’s eyes.
Although they were villagers, they had lived for most of their lives and understood basic human relations.
It was obvious even with their eyes closed that the so-called “friends in Tokyo” were definitely important people holding high positions in Tokyo!
Perhaps, even important leaders from Akita Prefecture!
But the problem was, why would those important people, who lived lives of luxury and were accustomed to silk and satin, suddenly be so eager for their village dogs?
This defied logic!
Seeing his parents’ confused expressions, Hiroshi Nohara finally snapped out of his excitement.
He smiled helplessly, a sense of pride radiating from his dark face.
“Dad, Mom, don’t overthink it,” he said, putting his mobile phone back into his pocket. “This is all thanks to Hiroshi. His movie ‘The Tale of Hachiko’ must have completely boosted the reputation of our Akita dogs.”
He paused, his tone becoming more resolute. “Hiroshi has already made all the arrangements on the phone. All we need to do now is follow his instructions and handle things beautifully. Tomorrow morning, I will personally deliver those twenty-five best-looking Akita dogs to the mayor.”
Upon hearing the name “Hiroshi,” all the confusion on Ginnosuke Nohara and Tsuru Nohara’s faces instantly vanished.
It was as if the name itself held a magic capable of explaining everything.
“Oh! So it was that kid Hiroshi behind all this!” Ginnosuke Nohara slapped his thigh, his smug expression returning instantly, as if he hadn’t been the one stunned into silence moments before. “I knew it! Besides our Hiroshi, who else has such great capability! Hahaha! He truly is the son of Ginnosuke Nohara!”
“Yes, since Hiroshi arranged it, there’s definitely no problem,” Tsuru Nohara nodded repeatedly, a look of gratification on her face.
For them, their younger son, Hiroshi Nohara, was no longer a child they needed to worry about; he was the pillar of the entire Nohara family, the “god” who could do anything in their hearts.
Whatever Hiroshi said was the truth.
Whatever Hiroshi arranged was the path to success.
This almost blind trust stemmed from the miracles Hiroshi had created time and again, and from the purest familial love deep within their blood.
…
The next morning, as dawn was breaking, West Omagari Village was still shrouded in a thin morning mist.
A magnificent Toyota Land Cruiser, like a awakened beast, slowly drove out of the Nohara family’s yard.
Behind it, three meticulously cleaned small trucks followed closely, their cargo bays filled with twenty-five fluffy Akita dogs curiously observing this new world.
Hiroshi Nohara firmly gripped the steering wheel, gazing at the small convoy behind him in the rearview mirror, an ineffable sense of pride surging within him.
He knew that what he was transporting today was not just twenty-five Akita dogs.
It was the future of the Nohara family, a crucial piece in his younger brother Hiroshi’s grand plan!
The convoy traveled smoothly and soon arrived at the Omagari City City Hall.
To Hiroshi Nohara’s surprise, Omagari City Mayor Kenji Ito, along with several city hall officials, was already waiting at the entrance.
Their solemnity and anticipation were evident.
“Oh my! Hiroshi-kun! You’ve finally arrived! Thank you for the long journey, thank you for the long journey!”
As soon as Kenji Ito saw Hiroshi Nohara’s car, he rushed forward with a broad smile.
He proactively extended his hand, firmly shaking Hiroshi Nohara’s, which was slightly rough from years of labor, and gave it a strong shake. His demeanor was as intimate as if they were old friends who hadn’t seen each other for years.
“Mayor, you are too kind,” Hiroshi Nohara quickly bowed in return, his composed and unfussy demeanor eliciting a flicker of subtle admiration in Kenji Ito’s eyes.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Hiroshi Nohara stepped aside and gestured for Kenji Ito to approach the three trucks.
“Mayor, please take a look.”
As the truck doors were slowly opened, twenty-five meticulously groomed Akita dogs were instantly exposed to the morning sunlight.
Each of them had fluffy fur, clean without a single spot of discoloration, and the air even carried a faint scent of pet shampoo.
These little ones seemed unafraid, tilting their furry heads and looking at the “important people” with their clear, innocent eyes. They would occasionally stick out their pink tongues to lick their noses, their silly and cute appearance instantly winning everyone present over.
“Hiroshi instructed me beforehand,” Hiroshi Nohara’s voice rang out at the opportune moment. He pointed at the Akita dogs, his tone filled with professionalism and pride. “He said that the greatest characteristic of the Akita breed is their intelligence and gentleness. Although they look honest and even a bit silly on the outside, they are actually very intelligent and can quickly understand their owner’s intentions, making them very easy to train.”
As he spoke, he opened one of the cages and took out a lively-looking puppy.
As soon as the puppy landed, it excitedly wagged its tail and affectionately rubbed against Hiroshi Nohara’s pant leg, its dependence and closeness warming everyone’s hearts.
“As you can see, they are very friendly to humans and have a calm temperament. They don’t bark unnecessarily, making them very suitable as family companion dogs.”
“Wow—!”
Kenji Ito’s eyes lit up instantly, his gaze sparkling with a childlike surprise and affection.
He cautiously reached out and tentatively petted the little Akita dog’s head.
The puppy seemed to sense his kindness and, instead of shying away, actively extended its tongue and gently licked his palm.
The warm, moist touch melted Kenji Ito’s heart instantly.
“Oh my! They are so cute! So gentle!” he exclaimed repeatedly, unable to conceal his genuine delight.
He looked at the fluffy little creatures before him, his mind rapidly making plans.
“Hmm, I must keep these two cutest ones for my two darling daughters; they will be overjoyed!”
“These fifteen with the best appearance must be quickly delivered to the Prefectural Governor; this is a great opportunity to solidify our relationship!”
“And these five, I must find a way to send them to those old friends in Tokyo; this favor is more valuable than any gold or treasure!”
“As for the remaining three… I’ll keep them for a few close relatives. It’s only fair to share the blessings.”
“Perfect! They are simply perfect social tools!”
The more Kenji Ito thought about it, the more excited he became. He looked at Hiroshi Nohara as if he were looking at a messenger of wealth.
“Hiroshi-kun! You have truly… helped me immensely!” He shook Hiroshi Nohara’s hand again, his voice filled with sincere gratitude. “These Akita dogs are truly magnificent! First-class appearance, gentle temperament, simply impeccable!”
He paused, then steered the conversation back to the person he truly cared about. “Speaking of which, it all thanks to your younger brother, Hiroshi-kun! His ‘The Tale of Hachiko’ was filmed so… touchingly! I couldn’t help but shed tears after watching it! He is the true genius!”
Upon hearing this, Hiroshi Nohara showed a humble smile, his modesty perfectly timed.
“Mayor, you flatter me,” he said, scratching his head, his tone sincere. “Hiroshi’s current achievements would not have been possible without the support of Akita Prefecture and Omagari City. Our Nohara family will always remember this kindness.”
These words were flawlessly spoken, praising the leader while also expressing their attitude, which made Kenji Ito overjoyed and beaming.
Looking at the honest and sensible young man before him, his admiration grew even stronger.
“Hiroshi-kun, you are a young man with a bright future,” Kenji Ito patted his shoulder, his tone becoming earnest. “Keep up the good work. Your Nohara Family Co., Ltd. has limitless potential. When the time comes for our Omagari City’s councilman elections, I will definitely reserve a spot for you.”
“What?! C-City Councilman?!”
Hiroshi Nohara’s body trembled violently, his usually calm eyes widening instantly, his face filled with disbelief and shock!
He stared blankly at Kenji Ito, his mind a complete blank.
City Councilman!
For him, a villager whose ancestors had all been farmers, this was an honor he had never dared to dream of!
This was truly “standing out,” a matter of bringing glory to his ancestors!
“Th-thank you very much for your nurturing, Mayor!” He bowed repeatedly, his genuine gratitude overflowing.
However, Kenji Ito merely smiled and waved his hand, a subtle glint of mystery flashing in his shrewd eyes.
“This is just the beginning,” he lowered his voice, leaning closer to Hiroshi Nohara, speaking in a tone only they could hear. “I’ve heard that even the Governor of Akita Prefecture has praised you brothers, especially Hiroshi-kun’s talent. He even sent word through someone, hoping to have an opportunity to meet you both and discuss your suggestions for Akita Prefecture’s cultural promotion.”
He paused, his tone becoming more significant. “Hiroshi-kun, you must seize this opportunity. If you can gain the Governor’s favor, let alone a city councilman, even… a prefectural councilman, is not impossible!”
Boom—!
Kenji Ito’s words exploded in Hiroshi Nohara’s heart like a thunderclap!
Prefectural Councilman?!
He stood rooted to the spot, all expression frozen on his dark face.
He felt as if he were in a dream; everything seemed so unreal.
He looked at Kenji Ito’s face with its mysterious smile, then thought of his younger brother Hiroshi’s perpetually calm face. His heart, already numb from countless shocks, was now stirred by a colossal wave.
He knew that his life, no, the entire Nohara family’s life, would undergo a seismic change because of his “monstrous” younger brother.
The path to “standing out” had already begun to unfold beneath his feet.
All he had to do was follow his younger brother’s footsteps, one step at a time.
“Yes! Mayor!”
He bowed deeply again, his lowered back carrying the boundless longing and hope of the entire Nohara family for the future.
Kenji Ito looked at Hiroshi Nohara’s ninety-degree bow, his smile growing warmer, like the gentle sunlight of spring, enough to melt the remaining snow in Akita Prefecture.
He extended his hands and affectionately supported Hiroshi Nohara’s arms, the pressure perfectly balanced, showing closeness without losing his mayoral dignity.
“Oh dear! Hiroshi-kun, what are you doing! Get up, get up quickly!” Kenji Ito’s voice carried a hint of “chiding,” but his shrewd eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Why be so formal between us!”
He looked at the young man before him, whose skin was dark but whose brow exuded honesty and determination. His admiration deepened like aged sake.
Sensible, so sensible!
Not only was everything handled flawlessly, but his etiquette and social skills were also impeccable.
The two sons of the Nohara family: one a cultural force shaking Tokyo, the other a rising star cultivating the countryside – they were simply… a perfect match!
Kenji Ito’s thoughts raced, but his smile remained unchanged.
He turned his head and gave a meaningful glance to the secretary who had been standing respectfully beside him, like a shadow.
“Miyamoto-kun.”
“Yes!”
The secretary named Miyamoto immediately understood. He bowed slightly, his voice respectful and efficient. “Mayor, what are your orders?”
“You arrange it immediately,” Kenji Ito said. “Ensure these twenty-five… no, these twenty-five ‘Akita envoys,’ are properly settled. Also, arrange for trustworthy people to accompany Hiroshi-kun’s convoy and deliver the gifts I’ve prepared to the Governor’s residence and to my friends in Tokyo. They must be personally delivered to them today, understand?”
“Yes! Please rest assured, Mayor, I will handle everything perfectly!” Secretary Miyamoto bowed again, his efficiency and composure clearly indicative of an elite veteran of the political arena.
After arranging everything, Kenji Ito’s gaze returned to Hiroshi Nohara. His look had shifted from initial admiration to a warmth akin to an elder looking at a junior.
“Hiroshi-kun,” he patted Hiroshi Nohara’s shoulder, his voice as gentle as if it could squeeze out water. “You have helped me immensely today. Just verbal thanks would make me, the mayor, seem too stingy.”
He paused, a smile that brooked no refusal appearing on his face. “How about this, tonight, I’ll host, and we’ll book a private room at ‘Shofutei.’ We’ll gather… in the name of family! You absolutely must grace us with your presence!”
“In the name of family?” Hiroshi Nohara blinked slightly at the mention.
“Yes!” Kenji Ito nodded matter-of-factly, his shrewd eyes twinkling with the appropriate enthusiasm of a politician. “I’ll have my wife join us, and you, bring your sister-in-law along too! The two families, no official business, just a regular family dinner, and we’ll chat about everyday life and deepen our bond!”
These words were spoken with genuine sincerity, both drawing them closer and subtly elevating the banquet from an official obligation to a personal friendship.
However, upon hearing this, a slightly shy wry smile appeared on Hiroshi Nohara’s dark face.
“Mayor, that… might be inconvenient,” he scratched his head, his honesty appearing particularly genuine at that moment.
“Oh? What inconvenience?” Kenji Ito raised an eyebrow slightly, a flicker of unnoticeable doubt in his eyes.
Could it be that… this Hiroshi-kun’s wife is not sociable? Or perhaps, their marital relationship is not harmonious?
Countless possibilities flashed through Kenji Ito’s mind.
“Well… Mayor,” Hiroshi Nohara’s voice lowered, his shyness becoming more pronounced. “I… I am not married yet.”
“What?!”
Kenji Ito’s eyes widened instantly, filled with astonishment.
He looked Hiroshi Nohara up and down as if seeing him for the first time.
“Not… not married?! Hiroshi-kun, you… you’re not joking with me, are you! You are now the youngest and most successful company president in our Omagari City! You’ve achieved success in your career, with a boundless future! How… how can you not be married yet?”
In his opinion, a man like Hiroshi Nohara, who was young and promising, should have had many admirers around him.
How could he not even be married?!
This defied logic!
“Please forgive my silliness, Mayor,” Hiroshi Nohara’s cheeks were now as red as a branding iron. He explained somewhat sheepishly. “Mainly, I was busy with farm work for my family in previous years, and then I was busy with company matters, so I postponed my own lifelong event.”
He paused, as if gathering courage, and a happy smile appeared on his dark face. “However, I have a fiancée now. We are already engaged and plan to get married at the end of this year.”
“Oh—! So that’s how it is!” Kenji Ito breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this, his astonishment instantly replaced by understanding.
He looked at Hiroshi Nohara’s face, radiating happiness, and his admiration surged once more.
Good kid! Not only successful in his career and humble, but also so devoted in his romantic life! This is simply… a perfectly trustworthy candidate!
“Hahahaha! That’s wonderful! Wonderful!” Kenji Ito laughed heartily, his joy genuine. “Hiroshi-kun, since that’s the case, bring your fiancée to tonight’s family dinner! I want to see which young lady has such good fortune to marry our Omagari City’s young talent!”
He paused, then slapped his thigh decisively. “Right! When you get married at the end of the year, be sure to notify me! I, Kenji Ito, will personally attend and officiate your wedding!”
“What?! You… you will officiate our wedding?!”
Hiroshi Nohara’s body trembled violently again, his usually calm eyes widening instantly, his face filled with ecstatic joy!
The Mayor personally officiating his wedding?!
This… this was simply the ultimate glory, bringing honor to his ancestors and his family name!
He was so excited he couldn’t speak, and only bowed deeply to Kenji Ito again. “Thank you so much, Mayor! Truly, thank you very much! Thank you very much!”
The bowed posture carried not only gratitude but also the highest respect of the entire Nohara family for the Mayor.
Kenji Ito watched his visibly overwhelmed reaction with a satisfied smile.
He knew that from this moment on, the potentially boundless “great ship” of the Nohara family was completely and tightly bound to his own political future.
…
As Hiroshi Nohara’s convoy, accompanied by Miyamoto’s men, slowly departed from City Hall, Kenji Ito’s smile remained as warm as a spring breeze.
He watched the convoy recede until the last trace of their vehicles disappeared at the end of the street, then turned around with a contented sigh and strode back into the office building that symbolized power.
Returning to his third-floor office, Kenji Ito let out a long sigh and leaned back comfortably in his large, plush leather chair.
He closed his eyes, replaying the conversation with Hiroshi Nohara and the silly, cute Akita dogs in his mind, a proud curve involuntarily forming on his lips.
“Mayor.”
Secretary Miyamoto entered, holding a freshly brewed cup of hot tea, which he respectfully placed before Kenji Ito.
“Oh? Miyamoto-kun, you’re back.” Kenji Ito slowly opened his eyes. He picked up the teacup, gently blew on the steam, and his shrewd eyes twinkled with the deep foresight of strategic planning.
“Yes.” Secretary Miyamoto bowed slightly, a genuine look of admiration appearing on his usually placid face. “Mayor, you are truly… farsighted. These two Nohara brothers are simply the brightest stars on your achievements record!”
This compliment was perfectly delivered, neither fawning nor overly flattering, yet precisely hitting Kenji Ito’s ego.
Kenji Ito could no longer hide his pride.
He put down his tea cup, leaned back slightly, and asked with an almost boastful tone, smiling, “Mr. Miyamoto, tell me the truth. Was it the right move for me to set aside my dignity as mayor and personally travel to the poor village of West Omagari to visit the Nohara family?”
Upon hearing this, Secretary Miyamoto’s face became even more filled with admiration.
He knew that the mayor was not just boasting to him, but also testing his “political wisdom.”
He pondered for a moment, then, in a tone filled with respect and admiration, slowly recounted the “history” that had long been brewing in his heart countless times.
“Mayor, your move was more than just right.” Secretary Miyamoto’s voice carried a power that could convince anyone: “It was simply… a stroke of genius!”
He paused, as if organizing his words, or perhaps as if laying the groundwork for the narration to come:
“Think about it, how will the outside world evaluate your ‘stooping to conquer’ this time?”
“They will say that Mayor Kenji Ito of Omagari City is a good leader who truly cares about his people and is eager to find talent! To revitalize the rural economy of Omagari City, he spared no effort and personally went into the fields to consult with a capable and thoughtful new-era farmer named Hiroshi Nohara!”
“And then?” Secretary Miyamoto’s eyes sparkled. “At that farmer’s home, you also happened to learn that he has a talented younger brother named Hiroshi Nohara, who works as a producer at Tokyo Television Station! So, you, once again as mayor, sincerely requested this young man, hoping he would use his talent to contribute to his hometown’s cultural promotion!”
“Ultimately, inspired by you, their mentor, Hiroshi Nohara was deeply moved and resolutely created a movie titled 《The Tale of Hachiko》! This movie is not only to commemorate that loyal Akita dog, but also to repay the favor of Mayor Ito’s recognition of their Nohara family!”
“And so, the movie was released and became a national hit! The fame of the Akita dog, the fame of Omagari City, and even the fame of the entire Akita Prefecture soared! And the origin of all this began with your seemingly ordinary, but in reality, profoundly wise decision—to personally go to the countryside and visit the Nohara family!”
“At that time, how will the Governor of Akita Prefecture feel upon hearing this ‘fine tale’? He will only think that you, Kenji Ito, are a mayor with vision, courage, and responsibility! He is a capable general truly worthy of his trust and promotion!”
Secretary Miyamoto’s speech was impassioned, with a cadenced rhythm. Every word struck the strings of Kenji Ito’s heart like the most precise musical notes.
He cleverly packaged a simple “political-business cooperation” into a legendary tale of a “mentor and his protégé,” instantly elevating Kenji Ito’s image to an entirely new level.
“Hahahaha!”
After hearing this, Kenji Ito could no longer hold back. He slapped his thigh forcefully and burst into laughter.
The sound was filled with uninhibited joy and smugness.
He straightened his chest, and the satisfaction and pride that came from the bottom of his heart made him feel as if he had aged ten years.
“Mr. Miyamoto! You fellow! You really… know how to talk!” He pointed at Secretary Miyamoto, laughing until tears almost streamed down his face. “But you’re right! That’s exactly what I thought at the time! Hahaha!”
He knew that although Secretary Miyamoto’s words were somewhat exaggerated, the general direction was entirely correct.
He had indeed recognized Hiroshi Nohara’s potential when he personally visited the countryside.
And now, this “investment” had begun to yield rich returns.
“Yes, I definitely made the right decision back then.” Kenji Ito exhaled a long breath, filled with emotion, satisfaction, and infinite longing for the future.
He seemed to recall something else, and the smile on his face lessened slightly, replaced by the steady demeanor of a superior.
“By the way, Mr. Miyamoto,” he said in a deep voice, “immediately send the addresses of those gifts to the truck driver for Hiroshi Nohara. Make sure they deliver all those ‘Akita envoys’ today.”
He paused and added specifically, “Especially the ones going to the Governor’s mansion, make sure to pick the best ones! Their appearance and temperament must be impeccable! Do you understand?!”
“Yes! Mayor, please rest assured! I’ll do it right away!” Secretary Miyamoto bowed again, then, with brisk steps, turned and left the office.
The office was once again left with only Kenji Ito.
He leaned against the chair back, and the smug smile reappeared on his face.
He picked up the telephone on the desk and began calling his “old friends” in Akita Prefecture and Tokyo Metropolis one by one.
“Hello, is this Assemblyman Sato? It’s Kenji Ito! Happy New Year, Happy New Year! … Oh, you’re too kind! The thing is, I’ve prepared a small gift for you, a purebred Akita dog from our Akita Prefecture, which will be delivered to your residence today! … You’re welcome, you’re welcome! I’m glad you like it! Please continue to look after me in the future! Hahaha!”
“Hello, is this Mr. Takatoshi? It’s Ito! … Yes, I’ve prepared one for you too! … Don’t worry, it’s absolutely the best in appearance! … It’s no trouble at all! In the future, the agricultural development of our Omagari City will depend on you!”
“Hello, Minister Yamada?…”
As he made one call after another, listening to the important figures on the other end, who were usually aloof, express their gratitude and admiration, the smugness in Kenji Ito’s heart swelled and swelled, as if injected with a stimulant.
He knew that these twenty-five Akita dogs were not just gifts, but also favors and connections.
They were the stepping stones for him, Kenji Ito, to rise rapidly in the political arena in the future!
After hanging up the last call, Kenji Ito let out a long sigh of relief.
He felt as if he could already see himself shining brightly before the Governor of Akita Prefecture in the near future, relying on the “aura” of the two Nohara brothers.
He might even make a name for himself in the political arena of Tokyo Metropolis.
He picked up the phone and dialed his home number.
“Hello, it’s me.” His voice became unusually gentle at this moment, and the authority and scheming of a politician vanished, leaving only the tenderness of a husband.
“Old woman, don’t cook dinner tonight,” he said with a smile, his voice filled with unconcealed joy. “Tonight, I will personally host the young talents of our Omagari City, the Hiroshi Nohara family, at ‘Shofutei’! You should also dress up nicely and come with me!”
He knew that this family banquet would be an important opportunity to further strengthen his relationship with the Nohara family.
And he, Kenji Ito, would, at this warm and calculating family banquet, lay down another crucial chess piece for his political future.
…
In the plaza in front of City Hall, the sunlight clearly outlined the silhouettes of three small trucks.
Hiroshi Nohara watched Mayor Kenji Ito’s slightly brisk figure disappear at the entrance of the building. Only then did he turn, and the perfectly respectful expression on his face was instantly replaced by the composure and decisiveness of a president.
He walked to the three trucks and looked at the drivers and staff sitting upright, their faces a mixture of nervousness and excitement. His voice was not loud, but it was firm.
“Everyone, listen carefully,” Hiroshi Nohara’s gaze swept over each person. “These twenty-five Akita dogs must all be delivered to the specified addresses within today. The journey is long, and I appreciate your hard work.”
He paused, a smile that could invigorate everyone appearing at the corner of his lips. “Therefore, each person going to Akita Prefecture will receive a reward of ten thousand yen today. Those going to Tokyo will receive fifty thousand yen each. If you do an excellent job, I’ll treat you all to sake when you return!”
“Whoa—!”
“Long live President!”
“Don’t worry, President! We guarantee to complete the mission!”
The moment of silence was ignited by an irrepressible cheer.
The nervousness on the faces of the drivers and staff of the three trucks turned into ecstasy.
Fifty thousand yen! That was almost half a month’s salary!
Money was always the most direct and effective way to stimulate adrenaline.
“Mm, very good,” Hiroshi Nohara nodded with satisfaction. He liked this atmosphere of immediate obedience and high morale.
His gaze then fell on the two young staff members from City Hall who had been arranged by Secretary Miyamoto to accompany them.
The two had maintained the reserve and detachment of civil servants throughout, but a hint of envy for the fifty thousand yen bonus could not be hidden in the depths of their eyes.
“Thank you for your hard work as well, gentlemen,” Hiroshi Nohara’s voice became much gentler. He took out two packs of cigarettes from his pocket and offered them, his actions as natural as if they were old friends. “When the job is done and you return, I will have a gift of equal value for both of you as a token of my gratitude.”
This was said very skillfully, neither abrupt nor unclear in conveying his “intent.”
The bodies of the two young staff members trembled almost imperceptibly. They exchanged glances and saw a flicker of understanding and pleasant surprise in each other’s eyes.
They quickly bowed to accept the cigarettes, and the reserve of civil servants transformed into sincere respect at this moment.
“President Nohara, you are too kind.”
“Yes, this is what we should do.”
They knew that this seemingly honest and simple President Nohara was so adept at dealing with people and situations.
Hiroshi Nohara said nothing more. He simply waved his hand, signaling them to depart.
The three small trucks, carrying twenty-five “Akita envoys” and everyone’s expectations, slowly drove away from the City Hall plaza.
Hiroshi Nohara watched them go before turning towards his Toyota Land Cruiser parked not far away.
He didn’t return to the village, but skillfully started the car and drove towards the city center.
The car passed through a few slightly old streets and finally stopped in front of a coffee shop.
The shop was not large, but it was warmly decorated and full of artistic flair.
Through the clean glass window, one could see customers in twos and threes, and a familiar figure busy behind the bar counter.
Ikuna Sakuruda.
His fiancée.
A gentle arc involuntarily formed at the corner of Hiroshi Nohara’s lips.
He sometimes couldn’t understand why Ikuna insisted on working when she could live a life of comfort at home.
She said she didn’t want to be a vase who only depended on men; she wanted her own life, her own career, even if it was just making coffee and baking bread in a small coffee shop.
It was precisely this independence and groundedness that made Hiroshi Nohara cherish and love her even more.
He opened the car door and walked into the coffee shop with steady steps.
“Ding-ling—”
The wind chime at the door made a crisp sound.
Behind the counter, the girl who was wiping a coffee cup looked up at the sound.
When her gaze met Hiroshi Nohara’s dark face with a hint of a silly smile, her always gentle eyes instantly lit up, like stars being ignited.
“Hiroshi-kun!”
Ikuna Sakuruda exclaimed in surprise. She put down the cup she was holding and quickly came around from behind the counter. Like a swallow returning to its nest, carrying a faint aroma of coffee, she rushed into his arms.
“Why did you come here?” She tilted her fair and beautiful face, her small head nuzzling affectionately against his strong chest. Her bright eyes were filled with the joy and sweetness of a reunion. “Didn’t you say you’d be busy today delivering things to City Hall?”
“I finished the work, so I came to see you on the way.” Hiroshi Nohara smiled honestly. He wrapped his arms around the soft and fragrant woman in his embrace, and the satisfaction from the bottom of his heart made him feel as if he possessed the whole world.
He paused, a smile of solemnity appearing on his face, and his voice became gentle. “Also, there’s a very important family banquet tonight, and I need my future Mrs. Hiroshi Nohara to attend with me.”
He deliberately spoke the words “Mrs. Hiroshi Nohara” word by word, and that somewhat overbearing gentleness made Ikuna Sakuruda’s cheeks turn completely red.
“Oh! You… you’re so mean!” She shyly punched his chest, her voice filled with playful scolding.
But soon, she caught the key point in his words.
“Wait a minute… a family banquet?” Ikuna Sakuruda suddenly looked up, her bright eyes filled with doubt and curiosity. “What family banquet is so important?”
“Yes, very important.” Hiroshi Nohara nodded. He looked at his fiancée’s face, full of curiosity, and a proud arc formed at the corner of his lips as he slowly uttered the answer that would stun her on the spot.
“It’s the Mayor’s family banquet.”
“What—?!”
Ikuna Sakuruda’s already large eyes widened instantly, and her cherry-like mouth opened slightly, wide enough to fit an egg.
Her clear and shocked exclamation instantly resounded throughout the entire coffee shop!
