9:00 PM.
Yukinoshita Yukino stepped into the elevator, heading downstairs.
The new episode's production framework had been finalized. Everything else would follow routine procedures.
Even if she didn't come to Flash Animation next week, the third studio would likely still achieve the results she wanted.
But for her, participation was necessary—
Not just because of Su Yu.
At first, she had entered the industry for him.
But now, half the reason was for herself.
She recalled the words she once told her sister—
"I will surpass you one day."
Back then, it seemed impossible.
But now…
With Su Yu's support, maybe she really could surpass Haruno.
Thinking about how Su Yu would be coming to her apartment tonight, Yukino's face flushed slightly, and a hint of anticipation flickered in her gaze.
Stepping outside, she looked around—
And froze.
Her chauffeur and the family car were nowhere in sight.
Just as she stood there, confused—
A motorcyclerolled up to her and stopped smoothly.
The rider removed his helmet—
Su Yu.
He smiled at her.
"Yukino, I'm here to pick you up."
Yukino blinked.
"You… when did you get a motorcycle license?"
"Today," Su Yu replied casually. "Your driver taught me. She even complimented me, said I looked like I had a few years of riding experience."
Yukino's expression was doubtful.
"Are you sure it's safe?"
"When I met your sister, she even wanted me to take her to the beach," Su Yu smirked. "But I turned her down."
Yukino paused.
Her suspicion faded.
"So… what did you and my sister talk about?" she asked as she adjusted her bag.
Su Yu pulled out a second helmet and handed it to her.
She glanced at it before securing it on her head.
"I made a business deal with her," Su Yu said. "I provide the funds, and she manages the operations."
"If you need money, I still have some saved," Yukino said as she sat behind him, wrapping her arms around his waist.
"I'm good for now," Su Yu replied. "But if I ever run out, I'll definitely come begging. If you refuse to lend me money… I'll cling to you every day."
Yukino's voice was soft—
"My money is your money."
Su Yu's smile deepened, but he didn't say anything.
The motorcycle engine rumbled to life, and they set off.
Yukino had never ridden on the back of a motorcycle before.
She thought Su Yu would drive recklessly—
But his speed was surprisingly steady.
So instead of worrying, she began to enjoy the scenery.
Neither of them spoke.
One was focused on the road.
The other didn't want to disturb the moment.
Thirty minutes later.
The motorcycle glided into the underground parking garage.
Yukino looked around, noticing several luxury cars.
Her first time seeing them.
"Yukino," Su Yu said as he parked. "When I found out these were your birthday gifts, I kept wondering…"
He removed his helmet, looking at her seriously.
"What could I possibly give you as a birthday present?"
Yukino tilted her head slightly.
"And?"
"And then I realized…"
Su Yu grinned.
"I am the best gift."
Yukino blushed but smiled gently.
"I don't care about the value of a gift," she said softly. "As long as it's from you, I'll like it."
Su Yu's heart skipped a beat.
"Yukino," he chuckled, "you're getting bolder."
"You don't like it?"
"I do."
"But… I like the cold and aloof Yukino even more."
"Su Yu-kun, you're really—"
"Please," Su Yu smirked. "Call me a gentleman."
"… Gentleman, take your hand off me."
At Yukino's Apartment
Su Yu was in the kitchen, preparing dinner.
Meanwhile, Yukino had already showered and changed into pajamas.
When he finished cooking, he brought the meal over to the table.
Yukino was already seated, waiting.
"You already ate dinner?" she asked, noticing he only served her.
"Yeah. Kawasaki cooked," Su Yu replied.
Yukino pouted slightly.
"Next time, eat with me."
Su Yu grinned.
"Yukino, you're jealous. That's adorable."
He reached out mischievously—
"Go take a shower," Yukino said firmly, face flushed. "Or else, you're not allowed to enter my room tonight."
Su Yu laughed.
"Can you bring me my pajamas?" he asked, smirking meaningfully.
Yukino's face turned crimson.
Because—
Yuigahama had already warned her about this trick.
Back then, Yukino had called Su Yu cunning.
Now, she knew exactly what he meant—
Yet, she didn't reject him.
Yuigahama was already ahead of her.
If she kept hesitating—
Would she ever catch up?
Su Yu watched her expression shift, knowing exactly what she was thinking.
"Yukino, you're really cute," he murmured.
Yukino turned away, cheeks burning.
Su Yu gently took her hand, fingers brushing against hers.
"Yukino," he whispered, "I'll be waiting."
Then, he left for the shower.
Yukino sat there, her heart racing.
An hour later.
Inside Yukino's bedroom.
She lay on the bed, facing away.
Su Yu was behind her, arms wrapped tightly around her waist.
At this moment—
His thoughts were calm.
"Yukino," he murmured, "goodnight."
Yukino hesitated.
Then, she turned around, burying herself in his embrace.
"Goodnight, bad guy," she whispered.
Monday Morning
Before sunrise, Su Yu woke up, preparing breakfast before heading back to Sakura Dormitory.
By the time he arrived, Hiratsuka Shizuka was exiting her room.
She spotted him, narrowed her eyes—
And huffed coldly.
"Sensei, good morning," Su Yu greeted casually.
Then, he sprinted off towards the park.
Hiratsuka grumbled but still followed.
By the time they reached the training spot, however—
She realized something.
Su Yu was dodging her attacks too easily.
A bad feeling crept into her chest.
If she kept training him like this…
Wouldn't he surpass her one day?!
Hiratsuka shook her head.
No way.
No matter how much Su Yu improved, his physical condition couldn't compare to hers.
She had years of training.
How could she possibly lose?
Reassuring herself, she upped her game.
Su Yu got knocked down again.
But—
He had learned a new move.
Which made it worth it.
On the way to school.
Su Yu walked beside Kawasaki Saki.
She was quiet today, staring straight ahead.
Lost in thought.
"I have two companies," Su Yu finally said.
"An animation studio and a publishing house."
"You can train under either CEO. Which one do you prefer?"
Kawasaki paused.
Then, after a moment—
"I want to hear your opinion first," she said softly.