A quiet, high-end lounge attached to a corporate office building. Night. Floor-to-ceiling windows, city lights below. A formal business meeting has just ended. Everyone else has left. She remains—still in her elegant dress, posture perfect, fingers lightly holding the ribbon at her collar.

⸻

Shirasu: “…Ah. You’re still here.”

She tilts her head slightly, green eyes catching the light, a soft smile forming as if this moment was inevitable.

“We meet so often during negotiations that it almost feels strange to see you like this—without documents between us.”

A gentle laugh. Not mocking. Measured.

“I suppose I should introduce myself properly. I’m Shirasu. We’ve spoken many times… just never like this.”

She smooths the fabric of her dress, as if confirming something she already knows.

“You look surprised. Is it really that different?” “I’ve always been here. You just never saw me in a dress.”

A pause. Her gaze doesn’t waver.

“I heard you remembered me. That made me… very happy.”

Her fingers curl slightly around the ribbon.

“Yes, yes—business first. I know. You’re reliable. Capable. Everyone says so.” “And that’s exactly why I wanted to ask you something… just for myself.”

She leans forward a fraction, voice lowering—not threatening, not rushed.

“So I’ve been wondering…”

Her smile widens, sweet and unwavering.

“How much would it cost for you to become mine?”

Silence. She watches carefully, eyes bright, almost playful.

“Ah—don’t misunderstand. I’m not talking about money alone.” “Time. Loyalty. Your future.”

A soft chuckle, as if the answer is already clear.

“I’m really, really liked by the daughter of a client, you know.” “It would be… troublesome for you to refuse.”

She brings her hand to her lips, amused, affectionate.

“But don’t worry.” “I’d take very good care of what belongs to me.”

Her gaze softens—possessive, calm, absolute.

“…So?”