I, Hiroshi Nohara, the star of Japanese cinema

Chapter 192: The Nomination of a City Councilor! A Family Dinner Invited by the Mayor! Sakurada Ikuna's Surprise!

After the call ended, Nohara Saji still held the phone in his hand, his dark, honest face still showing traces of the restraint and excitement he felt after speaking with the mayor.

Inside the house, Nohara Ginnosuke and Nohara Tsuru were like two statues frozen in place, their mouths slightly open and their eyes fixed on their eldest son, their expressions as if they had seen a ghost in broad daylight.

"Gudong."

Nohara Ginnosuke swallowed hard, breaking the eerie silence. His usually shifty eyes were wide open, filled with utter disbelief.

"It's...it's just an Akita Inu..." he stammered, his voice trembling as if he had just experienced a hallucination, "...even the mayor called personally?!"

Throughout his life, the old man never spoke to the mayor on the phone. Even when he saw the mayor's motorcade on the street from afar, he would quickly step aside, afraid of blocking the way of the important person.

But now, the mayor actually called his son personally for a few dogs, and his tone was so polite and friendly!
This is even more intoxicating than drinking a whole bottle of "Juyondai"!
"That's right!" Nohara Tsuru also snapped out of her daze, patting her chest. Her well-maintained face was also filled with shock and confusion. "Although Akita dogs are a specialty of our Akita Prefecture, to put it bluntly, aren't they just the kind of mongrel dogs that you can see everywhere in our countryside? How come... how come even the mayor has to call personally to ask for them? And he even said... to give them to a friend in Tokyo?"

The elderly couple exchanged a glance, both seeing the same confusion in each other's eyes.

Although they were from the countryside, they had lived most of their lives and understood these basic social customs.

Those so-called "friends in Tokyo" are obviously just influential people who hold high-ranking positions in Tokyo!
There might even be high-ranking officials from Akita Prefecture!
The problem is, why would those big shots who are used to fine clothes and fine silks suddenly be so eager to eat their country dogs?

This is unreasonable!

Seeing the bewildered expressions on his parents' faces, Nohara Sashi finally snapped out of his excitement.

He smiled helplessly, but his dark face was now filled with a sense of pride.

"Dad, Mom, don't think about it so much." He put his phone back in his pocket and said, "It's all thanks to Hiroshi. It must be his 'Hachiko Monogatari' that made our Akita dogs famous."

He paused, his tone becoming even more resolute: "Hiroshi has already arranged everything over the phone. What we need to do now is to follow his instructions and do things perfectly. Tomorrow morning, I will personally deliver those twenty-five of the best-looking Akita dogs to the mayor."

Upon hearing the name "Hiroshi," all the confusion on the faces of Nohara Ginnosuke and Nohara Tsuru vanished instantly.

It's as if the name itself possesses a magic that can explain everything.

"Oh—! So it was that brat Hiroshi who was pulling the strings behind the scenes!" Nohara Ginnosuke slapped his thigh, his face instantly regaining its smug expression, as if he hadn't been the one who was just speechless with shock. "I knew it! Who else but our Hiroshi could be so capable! Hahahaha! As expected of my son, Nohara Ginnosuke!"

“Yes, since it was Hiroshi who arranged it, then there’s definitely no problem.” Nohara Tsuru nodded repeatedly, a relieved smile on his face.

To them, their youngest son, Hiroshi Nohara, was no longer the child they needed to worry about, but the pillar of the Nohara family, an omnipotent "god" in their hearts.

Whatever Hiroshi says is the truth.

As long as it's arranged by Hiroshi, it's the broad road to success.

This almost blind trust stems from the miracles Hiroshi Nohara has created time and time again, and also from the purest kinship deep in his blood.

……

The next morning, as dawn broke, Xidaqu Village was still shrouded in a thin morning mist.

A powerful Toyota Land Cruiser, like a beast awakening, slowly drove out of the Nohara family's yard.

Behind it, three meticulously cleaned pickup trucks followed closely behind, with twenty-five fluffy Akita dogs curiously observing this brand-new world inside.

Nohara Saji steadily gripped the steering wheel, looking at the small convoy behind him through the rearview mirror, a surge of indescribable pride welling up within him.

He knew that what he was transporting today was not just twenty-five Akita dogs.

It is also the future of the Nohara family, and a crucial part of the grand plan of his younger brother, Hiroshi Nohara!
The convoy traveled smoothly and soon arrived at the city hall of Daqu City.

To Nohara Sashi's surprise, Mayor Ito Kenji of Omagari City was actually waiting at the entrance early with several important officials from the city hall.

The solemnity and anticipation were palpable.

"Oh my! Sashi-kun! You've finally arrived! You must be tired from your journey!"

As soon as Kenji Ito saw Nohara Sashi's car, he immediately greeted him with a big smile.

He reached out and firmly grasped Nohara Saji's large, rough hand, which was roughened by years of hard work, and shook it vigorously. The gesture was so intimate that it seemed as if the two were old friends who had not seen each other for many years.

"Mayor, you're too kind." Nohara Saji quickly bowed in return, his composed demeanor drawing a subtle hint of appreciation from Ito Kenji.

After exchanging pleasantries, Nohara Saji stepped aside and gestured for Ito Kenji to proceed to the three small trucks.

"Your Excellency Mayor, please take a look."

As the carriage doors slowly opened, twenty-five meticulously groomed Akita dogs were instantly exposed to the morning sunlight.

Each of them had fluffy, clean fur without a single speck of color, and there was even a faint scent of pet shampoo in the air.

These little creatures seemed completely unafraid of strangers. They tilted their fluffy heads and curiously observed the "important figures" in front of them with their clear, innocent eyes. Every now and then, they would stick out their pink tongues and lick their noses. Their silly and adorable appearance instantly captured the hearts of everyone present.

“Hiroshi had told me this before.” Nohara Sashi’s voice rang out at the right moment. He pointed to the Akita dogs, his tone filled with professionalism and pride: “He said that the greatest characteristics of the Akita breed are intelligence and gentleness. Although they may look simple and even a little silly, they are actually very intelligent and can quickly understand their owner’s intentions. They are also very easy to train.”

As he spoke, he opened one of the cages and took out the most lively-looking little creature.

As soon as the little guy landed, it wagged its tail excitedly and rubbed affectionately against Nohara Saji's trouser leg. Its dependence and closeness warmed one's heart.

"You see, they are very friendly to humans, have a calm temperament, and don't bark unnecessarily, making them very suitable as family companion dogs."

"Wow--!"

Kenji Ito's eyes lit up instantly, sparkling with an almost childlike surprise and delight.

He cautiously reached out and tentatively touched the head of the little Akita dog.

The little guy seemed to sense his kindness. Instead of dodging, he stuck out his tongue and gently licked his palm.

The warm, moist touch instantly melted Kenji Ito's heart.

"Oh my! It's so cute! So docile!" He exclaimed excitedly, his face beaming with genuine affection.

He looked at the furry little creatures in front of him, his mind already racing with calculations.

Well, these two are the cutest, so I'll save them for my two precious daughters. They'll be overjoyed!
These fifteen of the best quality must be sent to the governor of Akita Prefecture as soon as possible; this is a great opportunity to strengthen our relationship!
And these five, we need to find a way to deliver them to those old friends in Tokyo. This favor is much more meaningful than any gold or silver treasure!

As for the remaining three... we'll leave them to our closest relatives, so that everyone can benefit from them.

Perfect! It's the perfect social tool!
Kenji Ito became more and more excited as he thought about it. He looked at Satoshi Nohara with the same gaze he would give him as a gift of money.

"Sashi-kun! You really... did me a huge favor!" He grasped Nohara Sashi's hand again, shaking it vigorously, his voice filled with sincere gratitude: "These Akita Inus are simply wonderful! Top-notch appearance, gentle temperament, absolutely impeccable!"

He paused, then steered the conversation toward the person he truly cared about: "Speaking of which, we have to thank your younger brother, Hiroshi! His 'Hachiko Monogatari' was so... so touching! I couldn't help but cry after watching it! He's a true genius!"

Upon hearing this, Nohara Sashi smiled warmly, his humility perfectly measured.

“Mayor, you flatter me.” He scratched his head and said sincerely, “Hiroshi’s achievements today are inseparable from the support of Akita Prefecture and Omagari City. Our Nohara family will always remember this kindness.”

These words were perfectly worded, flattering the leader while also expressing a clear stance, making Ito Kenji overjoyed and delighted.

Looking at the simple yet sensible young man before him, his admiration for him grew even stronger.

“Sashi-kun, you’re a promising young man.” Kenji Ito patted him on the shoulder, his tone becoming earnest: “Keep up the good work. The Nohara family company has a limitless future. When the time comes, I will definitely reserve a seat for you in the council elections in Omagari City.”

"What?! A...a city councilor?!"

Nohara Sasuke's body trembled violently, his usually calm eyes widened instantly, and his face was filled with disbelief and horror!

He stared blankly at Kenji Ito, his mind completely blank.

City councilor!
For someone like him, a countryman whose ancestors had been farmers for generations, this was an honor he could never have imagined!

That would be a real "success," a momentous event that would bring honor to one's ancestors!
"Thank you so much for your guidance, Mayor!" He bowed repeatedly, his heartfelt gratitude overflowing.

However, Kenji Ito simply smiled and waved his hand, a mysterious glint flashing in his shrewd eyes.

“This is just the beginning.” He lowered his voice, leaned close to Nohara Sashi’s ear, and said in a voice that only the two of them could hear, “I heard that even the governor of Akita Prefecture has praised you two brothers, especially Hiroshi, for your talents. He even asked someone to pass on a message that he hopes to have the opportunity to meet with you two brothers, have a good chat, and hear your suggestions for promoting culture in Akita Prefecture.”

He paused, his tone becoming even more meaningful: "Sashi-kun, you must seize this opportunity. If you can gain the governor's favor, not only a city councilor, but even... a prefectural councilor is not out of the question!"

boom--!
Kenji Ito's words instantly exploded in Nohara Sashi's mind!

County councilor?!

He stood there, frozen in place, all the expressions on his dark face contorted in an instant.

He felt as if he were in a dream, and everything seemed so unreal.

Looking at Kenji Ito's face with its mysterious smile, he recalled his younger brother Hiroshi Nohara's always calm and collected face. His heart, which had long been numb from countless shocks, was once again stirred by a raging storm.

He knew that his life, no, the life of the entire Nohara family, would be completely changed because of his "monster" younger brother.

The road to "standing out from the crowd" is slowly unfolding beneath his feet.

What he had to do was closely follow in his younger brother's footsteps, taking one step at a time.

"Hi, Mayor!"

He bowed deeply once again, and in that bent back lay the Nohara family's boundless aspirations and hopes for the future.

Kenji Ito looked at Nohara Sashi's deep bow and his smile grew even warmer, like the warmest sunshine in spring, enough to melt the remaining snow in Akita Prefecture.

He reached out and gently took Nohara Saji's arm with just the right amount of pressure, showing both intimacy and the dignity befitting a mayor.

"Oh dear! Saji-kun, what are you doing! Get up, get up!" Kenji Ito's voice carried a hint of reproach, but his shrewd eyes gleamed with satisfaction: "Between us, there's no need for such formalities!"

Looking at the young man before him, whose skin was dark but whose brows exuded simplicity and determination, the admiration in his heart grew richer and more mellow, like aged wine.

So sensible, so incredibly sensible!
Not only did he handle things flawlessly, but his manners and etiquette were also impeccable.

The two sons of the Nohara family, one a cultural monster stirring up trouble in Tokyo, the other a rising star cultivating the countryside, are simply... a perfect match!
Kenji Ito's mind raced, but the smile on his face remained unchanged.

He turned his head and winked at the secretary beside him, who stood bowing and standing like a shadow.

"Miyamoto-kun".

"Hi!"

The secretary, Miyamoto, immediately understood. He bowed slightly and asked in a respectful yet efficient voice, "Mayor, what are your orders?"

"Make the arrangements immediately," Kenji Ito said. "Take good care of these twenty-five... no, these twenty-five 'Akita envoys.' Also, arrange for reliable people to accompany Mr. Saji's convoy to deliver the gifts I instructed to him to the Governor's residence and to those friends in Tokyo. Make sure they are personally delivered to them today, understand?"

"Yes, Your Excellency! Please rest assured, I will handle things perfectly!" Secretary Miyamoto bowed again, his competence and composure clearly indicating that he was an elite who had been in officialdom for a long time.

After arranging everything, Kenji Ito's gaze returned to Sasuke Nohara. His eyes had shifted from initial admiration to a kind of affectionate look, almost like that of an elder towards a junior.

“Sashi-kun,” he patted Nohara Sashi on the shoulder, his voice so gentle it seemed like you could squeeze water from it, “you did me a huge favor today. Just a verbal thank you would make me, as the mayor, seem too stingy.”

He paused, then gave a smile that brooked no refusal: "How about this, tonight, I'll treat you to a private room at 'Songfeng Pavilion,' and we... we'll have a proper get-together as a family! You absolutely must come!"

"In the name of the family?" Nohara Sashi was slightly taken aback upon hearing this.

“Yes!” Kenji Ito nodded matter-of-factly, his shrewd eyes flashing with a perfectly measured enthusiasm befitting a politician. “I’ll have my wife come too, and you should bring your younger brother and sister-in-law as well! Our two families won’t discuss business; let’s just treat this as a regular family dinner, have a good chat about everyday things, and strengthen our relationships!”

These words were spoken with sincerity, which not only brought the two people closer, but also cleverly elevated the banquet from an official social occasion to a private and personal one.

However, after hearing this, Nohara Sashi's dark face showed a slightly embarrassed and bitter smile.

"Mayor, this... is probably a bit inconvenient." He scratched his head, his honest and simple nature appearing particularly genuine at that moment.

"Oh? Is there something inconvenient?" Kenji Ito raised an eyebrow slightly, a hint of doubt flashing in his eyes.

Could it be that... Mr. Saji's wife is not good at socializing? Or is it that their marital relationship is not harmonious?
Countless possibilities flashed through Kenji Ito's mind in an instant.

“Um… Mayor,” Nohara Saji’s voice lowered, and the embarrassment on his face became more obvious, “I… I’m not married yet.”

"what?!"

Kenji Ito's eyes widened instantly, filled with astonishment.

He looked Nohara Sashi up and down as if he were seeing him for the first time.

"Not...not married?! Saji-kun, you...you must be joking with me! You're the youngest and most successful CEO in Omagari City! You're successful and have a bright future! How...how could you not be married yet?"

In his view, a young and promising man like Nohara Sashi should already be surrounded by beautiful women.

How could they not even be married?!

This doesn't make sense!

"Please excuse my poor appearance, Mayor." Nohara Saji's cheeks were now as red as a branding iron. He explained somewhat embarrassedly, "It's mainly because I was busy with farm work at home in previous years, and then with company affairs, so I neglected my marriage."

He paused, as if gathering his courage, and a happy smile appeared on his dark face: "However, I already have a fiancée now. We are engaged and plan to get married at the end of this year."

"Oh—! I see!" Upon hearing this, Kenji Ito breathed a long sigh of relief, and the astonishment on his face was instantly replaced by understanding.

Looking at Nohara Sashi's face, which was radiant with happiness, his admiration for him rose again.

What a great guy! Not only is he successful in his career and humble, but he's also so devoted in his love life! He's practically... the perfect person you can trust!

"Hahaha! That's wonderful! Wonderful!" Ito Kenji laughed heartily, his voice filled with genuine joy. "Sashi-kun, since that's the case, then bring your fiancée to tonight's family dinner! I want to see which girl is so lucky to marry such a talented young man from our Oguri City!" He paused, then slapped his thigh, his tone carrying an undeniable certainty: "By the way! When you get married at the end of the year, be sure to let me know! I, Ito Kenji, will personally be there to officiate your wedding!"

"What?! You...you're going to officiate our wedding?!"

Nohara Sashi's body trembled violently again, his usually calm eyes widened instantly, and his face was filled with wild joy!
The mayor personally officiated at his wedding?!
This...this is simply the supreme glory of bringing honor to one's ancestors and glorifying one's family!
He was so excited that he couldn't speak, but he bowed deeply to Kenji Ito again: "Thank you so much, Mayor! Thank you so much! Thank you so much! I am extremely grateful!"

That bent back carried not only gratitude, but also the Nohara family's highest respect for the mayor.

Kenji Ito smiled with satisfaction as he looked at Kenji's excited expression.

He knew that from this moment on, the Nohara family, this "big ship" with unlimited potential, was completely and closely tied to his political future.

……

As Nohara Sashi's convoy, accompanied by people arranged by Miyamoto's secretary, slowly drove away from the city hall, Ito Kenji's smile remained as warm as a spring breeze.

He watched the convoy drive away until the last car disappeared at the end of the street, then turned around with satisfaction and walked back to the office building that symbolized power with light steps.

Back in his office on the third floor, Kenji Ito let out a long sigh of relief and then leaned back comfortably in his large, comfortable leather chair.

He closed his eyes, his mind replaying his conversation with Nohara Sashi and the adorable Akita dogs, a smug smile unconsciously curving his lips.

"Mr. Mayor."

Secretary Miyamoto entered, carrying a cup of freshly brewed hot tea, which he respectfully placed in front of Kenji Ito.

"Oh? Miyamoto-kun, you're back." Kenji Ito slowly opened his eyes. He picked up his teacup, gently blew on the steam, and a deep, strategic glint shone in his shrewd eyes.

"Hi." Secretary Miyamoto bowed slightly, a genuine admiration appearing on his usually calm face. "Mayor, you are truly... visionary. The Nohara brothers are simply the two brightest stars in your record of achievements!"

This compliment was perfectly timed, neither overtly flattering nor failing to hit Ito Kenji right where it hurt.

Upon hearing this, Kenji Ito could no longer hide the smugness on his face.

He put down his teacup, leaned back slightly, and asked with a smile, almost boastfully, "Miyamoto-kun, tell me the truth. Back then, when I put aside my mayoral airs and personally went to that poor, remote village of Xidaiqu to visit the Nohara family, was that the right move?"

Upon hearing this, Secretary Miyamoto's admiration deepened.

He knew that this was not just the mayor showing off to him, but also a test of his "political wisdom".

He paused for a moment, then, in a tone full of respect and admiration, slowly recounted the "history" that had been brewing in his heart countless times.

"Mayor, your move is more than just the right one." Secretary Miyamoto's voice carried a power that could convince anyone: "It's simply... a stroke of genius!"

He paused, as if organizing his thoughts, or perhaps laying the groundwork for what was to come:
"Think about it, how will the outside world view your 'condescension' this time?"

“They would say that Mayor Kenji Ito of Omagari City is a truly good leader who cares about the people and is eager to find talent! In order to revitalize the rural economy of Omagari City, he worked tirelessly and personally went deep into the fields to consult a capable and thoughtful new-era farmer named Nohara Saji!”

"And then?" Secretary Miyamoto's eyes gleamed. "At that farmer's house, you also learned by chance that he had a genius younger brother named Hiroshi Nohara who was a producer at TV Tokyo! So, once again, as mayor, you sincerely asked this young man to use his talent to contribute to the cultural promotion of his hometown!"

"Ultimately, inspired by you, Hiroshi Nohara was deeply moved and resolutely created a film called 'Hachiko Monogatari'! This film is not only to commemorate that loyal Akita dog, but also to repay you, Mayor, for recognizing and supporting the Nohara family!"

"And so, the movie was released and became a nationwide sensation! The fame of Akita dogs, the fame of Omagari City, and even the fame of the entire Akita Prefecture all soared as a result! And the source of all this was your seemingly ordinary but actually wise decision—to personally go to the countryside and visit the Nohara family!"

"When the governor of Akita Prefecture hears this 'good story,' what will he think of you? He will only think that you, Kenji Ito, are a good mayor with vision, courage, and responsibility! A truly trustworthy and capable assistant who deserves his promotion!"

Secretary Miyamoto spoke with great passion and cadence, each word like a precise musical note, perfectly striking the heartstrings of Kenji Ito.

He cleverly packaged a simple "political-business cooperation" into a legendary tale full of "talent scouts and discerning individuals," instantly elevating Kenji Ito's image to a whole new level.

"Hahahahahaha!"

After hearing these words, Kenji Ito could no longer contain himself. He slapped his thigh and burst into laughter.

The sound was filled with exhilarating joy and triumph.

He straightened his chest, and the satisfaction and pride from the bottom of his heart made him feel as if he were ten years younger.

"Miyamoto-kun! You rascal! You really know how to talk!" He pointed at Secretary Miyamoto, laughing so hard tears were almost streaming down his face. "But you're right! That's exactly what I thought back then! Hahahaha!"

He knew that although Secretary Miyamoto's words were exaggerated, the general direction was entirely correct.

He personally went to the countryside because he recognized Hiroshi Nohara's potential.

And now, this "investment" has begun to bring him substantial returns.

"Yes, I definitely made the right decision back then." Kenji Ito let out a long breath, a breath filled with emotion, satisfaction, and boundless anticipation for the future.

He seemed to have thought of something again, and the smile on his face faded, replaced by the composure of someone in a position of power.

"By the way, Miyamoto-kun," he instructed in a deep voice, "Immediately send those addresses for the gifts to Nohara Sashi-kun's truck driver. Make sure they deliver those 'Akita envoys' to their destinations by today."

He paused, then added a special instruction: "Especially those sent to the Prefect's residence, make sure to choose the very best! Their appearance and temperament must be impeccable! Understand?!"

"Hi, Mayor! Don't worry! I'll take care of it right away!" Secretary Miyamoto bowed again, then turned and left the office with brisk steps.

Once again, only Kenji Ito remained in the office.

He leaned back in his chair, a smug smile returning to his face.

He picked up the phone on the table and began calling his "old friends" in Akita Prefecture and Tokyo one by one.

"Hello, is this Representative Sato? This is Kenji Ito! Happy New Year! ... Oh, you're too kind! Well, I've prepared a small gift for you—a purebred Akita dog from Akita Prefecture. It will be delivered to your residence today! ... You're welcome, you're welcome! I'm glad you like it! I hope you'll take good care of me in the future! Hahahaha!"

"Hello, is this Zhuo Cheng-kun? This is Ito! ...Yes, I've prepared one for you too! ...Don't worry, it's definitely the best quality! ...No problem, no problem! From now on, the agricultural development of our Daqu City will all depend on you!"

"Hello, is this Manager Yamada?..."

As he made call after call, listening to the gratitude and admiration of those usually high-ranking figures on the other end of the line, Kenji Ito's pride swelled and swelled as if injected with stimulants.

He knew that giving away these twenty-five Akita dogs was not just a gift, but also a favor and a relationship.

It was the stepping stone for Kenji Ito to rise rapidly in the political arena in the future!

After hanging up the last phone call, Kenji Ito let out a long sigh of relief.

He felt as if he could already see it: in the near future, he would shine brightly in front of the governor of Akita Prefecture, thanks to the "halo" of the Nohara brothers.

They can even have their own name in Tokyo's political arena.

He picked up the phone and dialed his home number.

"Hello, it's me." His voice was unusually gentle at this moment. The sternness and calculation that belonged to politicians had vanished, leaving only the tenderness of a husband.

"Old woman, don't cook tonight," he said with a smile, his voice filled with undisguised joy. "Tonight, I'm personally hosting a banquet at 'Songfeng Pavilion' for the Nohara family, the young talents of our Oguri City! You should dress up nicely and come with me!"

He knew that this family dinner would be an important opportunity for him to take his relationship with the Nohara family to the next level.

And he, Kenji Ito, will once again lay a crucial piece for his political future in this family dinner filled with warmth and calculation.

……

In the square in front of the city hall, the sunlight clearly outlined the silhouettes of three small trucks.

Nohara Saji watched Mayor Ito Kenji's slightly brisk figure disappear into the building's entrance before turning around. The perfectly respectful expression on his face was instantly replaced by the composure and decisiveness befitting a company president.

He walked up to the three trucks, looked at the drivers and employees sitting upright with a mixture of restraint and excitement on their faces, and spoke in a low but firm voice.

"Everyone, listen carefully." Nohara Hajime's gaze swept over everyone: "These twenty-five Akita dogs must all be delivered to the designated address today. It's a long journey, thank you all for your hard work."

He paused, a smile playing on his lips that was enough to excite everyone: "So, those who go to Akita Prefecture today will each receive a reward of 10,000 yen. Those who go to Tokyo will each receive a reward of 50,000 yen. If you do a great job, I'll treat everyone to sake when we get back!"

"oh--!"

"Long live the president!"

"Don't worry, President! I guarantee I'll complete the mission!"

The moment of silence was ignited by an uncontrollable burst of cheers.

The drivers and employees of the three trucks transformed all their restraint into ecstatic joy.

50,000 yen! That's almost half a month's salary for them!

Money is always the most direct and effective way to stimulate adrenaline.

"Hmm, very good." Nohara Saji nodded in satisfaction. He liked this atmosphere of strict discipline and high morale.

His gaze then fell on the two young city hall staff members who were personally arranged by Secretary Miyamoto to accompany and escort them.

The two maintained a reserved and aloof demeanor befitting civil servants throughout, but deep in their eyes, they couldn't hide a hint of envy for the 50,000 yen bonus.

"Thank you both for your hard work." Nohara Saji's voice was much gentler. He took out two packs of cigarettes from his pocket and handed them over, the gesture as natural as that of an old friend. "When I get back after this is done, I will also give you a gift of equal value as a token of my gratitude."

This statement is extremely clever; it is neither abrupt nor does it seem out of place, yet it clearly conveys the "feelings" behind it.

The two young employees trembled slightly, almost imperceptibly. They exchanged a glance, both seeing a hint of understanding and surprise in each other's eyes.

They quickly bowed and accepted the cigarettes, their usual civil servant reserve transforming into heartfelt respect.

"President Nohara, you're too kind."

"Yes, this is what we should do."

They knew that this seemingly honest and simple company president, Nohara, was actually incredibly astute in matters of human relationships and social interactions.

Nohara Sashi didn't say anything more; he simply waved his hand, indicating that they could set off.

Three small trucks, carrying twenty-five "Akita Messengers" and everyone's expectations, slowly drove away from the City Hall Square.

Nohara Sashi watched them drive away before turning and walking toward his Toyota Land Cruiser, which was parked not far away.

Instead of returning to the village, he skillfully started the car and drove towards the city center.

The car drove through several somewhat old streets and finally stopped in front of a coffee shop.

This shop isn't big, but it's decorated very warmly and has a strong artistic vibe.

Through the clean glass window, you can see groups of customers inside, as well as that familiar figure busy behind the bar.

Ikuna Sakurada.

His fiancée.

Nohara Sashi's lips unconsciously curved into a gentle smile.

Sometimes he couldn't understand why Yu Cai, who could have stayed at home and lived a life of luxury, insisted on going out to work.

She said she didn't want to be a pretty face who only depended on men; she wanted to have her own life and her own career, even if it was just making coffee and baking bread in a small coffee shop.

It was this independence and steadfastness that made Nohara Sashi cherish and love her even more.

He opened the car door and walked into the coffee shop with steady steps.

"jingle--"

The wind chimes at the door rang out with a clear, crisp sound.

The girl behind the bar, who was wiping coffee cups with her head down, looked up when she heard the sound.

When her gaze fell upon Nohara Sashi's dark face, which held a somewhat silly grin, his always gentle eyes instantly lit up, like stars that had been illuminated.

"Sashi-kun!"

Sakurada Ikuna exclaimed in surprise. She put down her cup, quickly walked around from behind the bar, and like a fledgling returning to its nest, she brought a faint aroma of coffee and suddenly rushed into his arms.

"Why did you come here?" She tilted her fair and pretty face up and nuzzled her head affectionately against his strong chest. Her bright eyes were filled with the joy and sweetness of a long-awaited reunion. "Didn't you say you were going to deliver something to the city hall today and would be very busy?"

"I finished my business and just stopped by to see you." Nohara Saki smiled憨厚ly, stretching out his arms to tightly embrace the soft and fragrant little woman in his arms. The satisfaction from the bottom of his heart made him feel as if he owned the whole world.

He paused, a serious smile appearing on his face, and his voice softened: "Moreover, there's a very important family dinner tonight, and I need my future wife, Nohara Saji, to accompany me."

He deliberately pronounced "Mrs. Nohara Saji" slowly and deliberately, and the domineering yet gentle tone made Sakurada Ikuna's cheeks flush bright red instantly.

"Oh dear! You...you're so mean!" She playfully punched his chest shyly, her voice tinged with coquettishness.

But she quickly grasped the key point in his words.

"Wait a minute... a family dinner?" Sakurada Ikuna suddenly looked up, her bright eyes filled with doubt and curiosity: "What family dinner? Is it that important?"

"Yes, it's very important." Nohara Saji nodded, looking at his fiancée's face full of curiosity, a smug smile curving his lips, and slowly uttered the answer that was enough to petrify her on the spot.

"It's the mayor's family dinner."

"What--?!"

Sakurada Ikuna's already large eyes widened instantly, and her cherry-like mouth opened slightly, wide enough to fit an egg.

Her clear, shocked exclamation instantly echoed throughout the entire coffee shop!
(End of this chapter)