Several years later.
"Mr. Nakagawa?"
Haruki lifted his eyes from the screen. "Yes, Chief Kajima?"
"Here's the report you asked for."
"Ah, thank you."
Just as he reached for the document, his phone buzzed on the desk. The number flashing across the screen made his brow lift slightly.
Mr. Yamashita.
He accepted the call at once, raising the phone to his ear.
"Hello, Mr. Yamashita?"
"Oh, Haruki-kun." The voice on the other end was warm, with a hint of pride.
"Yes, Mr. Yamashita," Haruki replied politely.
"It looks like you've managed the Okinawa branch well. Not only that, the project in Tokyo is proceeding perfectly under your supervision. I'm impressed."
Haruki's lips curved faintly. "I only did what was necessary, sir."
"There will be a huge meeting next week," Yamashita continued. "And I want you here in Tokyo. As usual, I'll be counting on you to present the progress."
"Yes, Mr. Yamashita. I will attend the meeting."
"Good. I'll be expecting you."
