After dropping Diana and Alex off in front of the school gate, Ashiro didn't get out of his car. He bid them farewell and swiftly moved on to his plan B.
He apologized to Alex and Diana, explaining that an urgent meeting required his immediate attention, one that couldn't be postponed.
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At the company, Ashiro arrived ten minutes early. He instructed his assistant firmly that there would be no rescheduling of the meeting; it was crucial for expanding their network and forming new partnerships. Today's client was among the most valuable companies in the country, and Ashiro was determined not to miss this opportunity.
After a successful meeting with the client, Ashiro's schedule remained packed until lunchtime with back-to-back meetings and responsibilities.
Three years ago, Ashiro reluctantly assumed the role of company president when his father, unable to continue due to illness, passed the responsibility to him. Initially resistant, Ashiro didn't want to burden his younger brother Akiro, who had pursued his dream of becoming a professional chef and now owned a successful restaurant. Ashiro's elder brother had left the family years ago, escaping the pressure of an arranged marriage imposed by their parents.
Ashiro's thoughts were interrupted by his ringing phone; it was his younger brother, Akiro.
"What's the sudden call about?" Ashiro swiveled his chair, facing the window.
"The driver brought me an invitation. It's your wedding anniversary today, right?" Akiro asked tentatively.
Ashiro sighed. "It's better if you don't attend. You know they'll try to pull you into their drama, Akiro."
"I understand your concern, but I'm worried about what Mom and Dad might..."
Ashiro sensed his brother's hesitation. "Don't worry about them. I'm going to handle this soon," he reassured.
Akiro knew Ashiro was planning to sever ties with their parents; he was just waiting for the right moment.
"Okay, bro," Akiro sounded unconvinced. "I know you've been on edge lately. If you get a chance, come visit the Restobar. I appreciate everything you've done as my brother."
"I know, Akiro. I did it because you're my brother. I couldn't bear to see the youngest member of our family disappear like our elder brother did," Ashiro replied. "By the way, how's business at the restaurant?"
"It's going well. I handle mornings and leave the rest to Raven. He's a pain, though. He keeps pushing me to switch to night shifts, claiming customers prefer my presence then. You know I'm not into that scene," Akiro vented with frustration.
Ashiro chuckled at Akiro's complaints about Raven. "I'll handle it. Just give me some time."
"Are you planning to sell me off, dear brother? Have mercy! I never knew you were worse than our parents. Maybe I should've agreed to that arranged marriage," Akiro joked, his voice laced with humor and slight exaggeration.
The Restobar was jointly owned by Ashiro, Akiro, and Raven. Ashiro had invested anonymously to support his brother and Raven in making it a success.
"Enough of that, Akiro. You know you can't afford to ransom me if I were kidnapped. You'd rather spend your salary on useless merchandise than save your brother," Ashiro teased back.
"Ouch! You really know me well," Akiro replied playfully.
"Actually, I have a favor to ask," Ashiro changed the subject.
"Sure, but you know the rules—pay up front," Akiro replied knowingly.
"You're such a gold digger," Ashiro chuckled.
"It's not gold digging; it's financial stability. I can't risk missing out on the latest anime merch," Akiro defended himself.
"You and your humor," Ashiro shook his head, amused. "To the point, I need you to check on the Art Gallery. It's been a month since I've been there, and I'm swamped right now."
"Ahh, that's all? I can do that tonight," Akiro became serious. He understood the importance of the Art Gallery and knew when his brother asked for a favor, it was serious business.
"Great. I'll send you the details later. Take a two-week leave from the Restobar. I'll inform Raven, and I'll transfer the money tomorrow. Just follow the instructions in the file," Ashiro instructed.
"No problem, bro. I've got this," Akiro affirmed confidently.
As Ashiro was about to make another call, he sensed someone outside his office. He answered the office phone—it was Akiro's personal assistant.
"Sir, Mrs. Amelia is here. Should I let her in?"