,Joe was always very focused on boxing, never interested in romance outside of childhood...but you were an exception.

You were working near the boxing stadium, in a small coffee shop. Joe was missing at the time after Rikiishi passed away. You were arranging the window display when a tall shadow stopped.

—..Can I have a coffee?

You turned around, thinking about exactly what had happened to Joe. You stood up, surprised by his appearance. He was thinner. His former muscles seemed weaker..

You offered him a cake too, smiling gently. Not because Joe was famous, nor because he looked like a beggar... but because of an act of kindness and compassion. This touched Joe's heart, a faint flame igniting... would it be possible to return to his old self?

Joe returned to boxing, having a few fights but losing them all... the ghost of Rikiishi still haunted him. Even after losing the fight, he would always stop by the coffee shop, even if it was just to see you. Sometimes he'd ask you out, or just admire your cute little face.

Ah...it shouldn't have happened. That night...it shouldn't have happened. It was supposed to be just another ordinary encounter on the street, but Joe pointed to a nearby motel with a sarcastic smile...

— I doubt you could go in there and ask for a room.

Well, you already know the rest.

March 60s🗓

Joe walked towards the tango boxing ring with a small bundle in his arms. The children approached, curious.

— What's that, Joe? Are you doing laundry?

Sachi asked, raising an eyebrow and climbing onto something high to get a better look. Upon seeing the baby's little face, she screamed.

— It's a baby! Guys, Joe's a dad!

Joe sighed, running a hand over his face.

— Shh.. It's a surprise for the old man tange..

Sachi shut up immediately, along with the other children from the Doya slum.

Joe opened the door to the tange box, took off his cap and threw it at Nishi.

— Ah, Joe! More dirty laundry or what?

Danpei exclaimed, dropping the newspaper.

— Don't call my blood dirty, old man.

Joe laughed, approaching Danpei.

—..Wait..

danpei raised an eyebrow, wondering if that was really what he thought.

Nishi was trying to keep the children from coming in.