Tokyo Three Generations

Hearing him say that, Xiangzi breathed a sigh of relief and a smile appeared on his face. "That's great! I really hope you two can get along well. Here's what we'll do: if you two ever fight again, just tell me, and I'll stand up for you..."

"What if you can't get ahead? After all, that's your father." Jun Takasaki teased Xiangzi with a mischievous grin.

Xiangzi seemed genuinely stumped by the question. She frowned slightly, pondered for a moment, and finally sighed helplessly, "I will try my best to mediate for you, but if any conflicts arise that I cannot resolve... then as compensation for my apology, you can bully me a little, of course within the limits and number of times I allow. But you can't... you can't go too far."

Xiangzi spoke solemnly, but it amused Takasaki Jun, who couldn't help but burst into laughter.

"Don't talk such nonsense. Do you think I'm a fool who can't distinguish right from wrong and takes his anger out on others? Although you are father and daughter, he is him and you are you. You don't need to take on unnecessary responsibilities..."

Then he added with a smile, "Besides, Miss Toyokawa is so cute, how could I bear to bully her?"

Caught off guard by the sudden praise, Shoko was both shy and delighted, her face turning red. Her bashful expression only made her more adorable, to the point that Takasaki Jun almost reached out to flick her nose.

Whenever Aine showed a similar expression while they were young, he would do this to tease his childhood friend.

But this time, his index finger barely moved before reason forced it back down.

She is, after all, Miss Toyokawa; she can't be as unrestrained as she is with Aine.

As the two chatted and laughed, the gloom in Jun Takasaki's heart gradually dissipated, and a smile returned to his face.

Just then, Jun Takasaki heard a soft cough coming from behind him.

The voice sounded like a woman's, and she wasn't too young.

Jun Takasaki interrupted his conversation with Shoko and turned to look.

A middle-aged woman came into view, dressed in a business suit, her hair styled in a bun, looking very elegant. She wore a very professional smile, and when her eyes met Takasaki Jun's, she nodded slightly to indicate that she had indeed come looking for him.

Who is this person?

The woman who dared to interrupt Xiangzi's conversation must be someone important, but judging from her attire, she didn't seem to be the housekeeper here. She looked more like a career elite... Takasaki Jun was puzzled.

However, he wasn't in a hurry, since the other party would definitely explain the situation to him.

At this moment, Xiangzi also realized that something was wrong. She turned around and saw the other person.

"Aunt Bai Ze?" she asked, puzzled. "Is there something you need?"

Then she whispered to Takasaki Jun, "This auntie is one of the leaders of our group's legal department, and also a close friend of my mother. I've called her auntie since I was little."

Takasaki Jun then realized that he was indeed an important executive of the Toyokawa Group, and that he had such a close relationship with Shoko.

So he bowed to her as a junior and said, "Ms. Bai Ze, it is an honor to meet you. May I ask what advice you may give me?"

At this moment, Bai Zechun also came over.

Even though she had already seen this boy in Toyokawa Kiyotaka's study, she pretended that she had just met him for the first time and carefully examined Takasaki Jun with a harmless gaze.

"I'm so sorry, Master Takasaki, I apologize for my rudeness. I had some business to report to the Toyokawa main residence today, and I happened to hear that you were here, so I couldn't resist my curiosity and came to see you. I hope you don't mind that I've disturbed you..."

"Of course I don't mind; in fact, I'm honored," Jun Takasaki said casually. "However, I'm afraid you'll be disappointed after meeting me in person."

"No, not at all disappointed. On the contrary, I'm even more satisfied than I expected." Bai Zechun smiled slightly and replied very politely, "You are indeed handsome and talented. No wonder so many people praise you."

Then, before Takasaki Jun could reply, she looked at Shoko and said with a slightly teasing smile, "Shoko, your taste is indeed much better than Mizuho's."

"Auntie! What are you saying!" Xiangzi was immediately embarrassed and couldn't help but protest to her.

Despite being scolded by her young mistress, Bai Zechun remained unfazed, still smiling at the two of them with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

He seemed like a serious and unsmiling career elite, but I never expected him to have such a down-to-earth side, Jun Takasaki thought to himself.

While thinking about it, he immediately tried to smooth things over for Xiangzi, saying, "You flatter me. I can't accept such a description. At most, I'm just a little better than the average person."

Hearing this reply, which was neither self-deprecating nor self-praise, Bai Zechun couldn't help but chuckle to himself. What a proud and confident young master! But that was in line with his personality.

“I don’t think you’re just a little better than the average person…” She shook her head with a smile. “To be honest, although this is only our first meeting, I’ve already heard a lot about you and have even had the privilege of witnessing your talent.”

"What do you mean?" Jun Takasaki asked in confusion.

Bai Zechun tilted his head, glanced at Xiangzi, and then answered, "Not long ago, a calligraphy scroll was hung in Xiangzi's study with great care. I wondered which famous calligrapher was so honored to be chosen by the young lady, but then I realized something was amiss, and after inquiring carefully, I learned that it was your calligraphy, young master..."

I have some knowledge of calligraphy, and while I can't honestly say your writing is better than those of famous calligraphers, I can see that your brushwork is rigorous and your style is extraordinary. It's clear you've immersed yourself in years of hard work; the Takasaki family's upbringing is truly admirable… After learning the whole story, I couldn't help but feel a little curious about you, young master. Today, I finally have the honor of seeing you in person.”

She nodded repeatedly as she said this, her face full of approval.

Being praised is a good thing, but being praised to the point is an even better thing, to the point that Jun Takasaki suddenly became a little smug.

It took him a moment to realize that Bai Zechun seemed to be intentionally or unintentionally comparing him to Xiangzi.

It was almost as if... as if it were a deliberate reminder of Takasaki Jun's good intentions.

By this time, Xiangzi's face had turned completely red, and he no longer dared to speak.

“Such a mediocre piece, hanging on someone’s wall, is truly embarrassing… My grandfather loved calligraphy, so he was very strict with me from a young age. I learned a little, but it’s really nothing special, just a small personal hobby.” Takasaki Jun smiled apologetically, smoothing things over for Shoko. “This calligraphy scroll was a gift from my grandfather to Shoko when she went on vacation to Akita. Shoko cherishes it, which means she cherishes the old man’s good intentions, and I am very grateful for that. If I have any better works in the future, I will share them with her…”

As he responded, Bai Zechun observed him closely, and seeing his composed demeanor and skillful handling of the situation, she secretly nodded in approval.

They certainly have that air of a prestigious family... no wonder they're so highly regarded.

Having tested the waters, and now that things had come to this point, she decided to stop beating around the bush.

"You're too modest. You truly deserve to be called a leader among the younger generation." After praising her, she formally suggested, "There are some things I'd like to say to you privately. Would you do me the honor of having the opportunity?"

This suggestion surprised both Jun Takasaki and Shoko Toyokawa.

Xiangzi's face instantly darkened.

Although she still didn't know what Aunt Bai Ze wanted to do, after thinking it over, there were only two possibilities—either it was because her father had just argued with Chun, so she was stepping in to support her father; or it was about her.

Either way, it had already made her unhappy.

"Auntie, what do you want to see Chun about?" So she slowly raised her head and asked expressionlessly.

Jun Takasaki might not have realized anything about her performance yet, but Tsubaki Shirasawa was secretly startled.

The young lady is usually very particular about her manners, and her current behavior is the most obvious way she is expressing her dissatisfaction.

That's right, the young lady is angry and is demanding an explanation from me, showing no mercy whatsoever.

Xiangzi was so angry not only because his "private affairs" were threatened, but also because he felt offended and impatient.

A father is a father after all, and blood is thicker than water, so she would not and dare not disrespect him; but her aunt is different. Although she watched her grow up and is considered half a relative, she is not a relative after all.

To put it more bluntly, they were just closer retainers.

Subconsciously, she knew that she could be close to these "retainers," but it was impossible and unnecessary for her to endlessly indulge them.

If the aunt hasn't done anything wrong, she doesn't mind continuing to respect her and treat her with the courtesy she deserves. However, if the aunt is ungrateful, offends her and her friends, or even affects her private life, then that's a completely different matter.

That stern glance from him made Bai Zechun suddenly feel a little scared.

Shirasawa Tsubaki was already considered tall among Japanese girls, and now with high heels, she's almost as tall as Takasaki Jun. She's very authoritative among her colleagues and subordinates, which is part of her confidence.

However, the young lady's imposing and dignified demeanor made even Bai Zechun, who had watched her grow up since childhood, feel a little intimidated for a moment.

While still feeling lingering fear, she also felt a sense of relief.

The young lady is gradually growing up and is becoming more and more like the head of the family.

Mizuho would also be pleased to see this scene.

However, it would be even better if the young lady's imposing manner could also be displayed in other ways.

With this thought in mind, Bai Zechun's face regained a gentle smile with a hint of ingratiation. "Xiangzi, don't worry, Auntie will definitely not cause you any trouble. I'm only looking for Young Master Gaoqi this time out of good intentions. Please trust Auntie."

Hearing her say that, Xiangzi's expression softened slightly, but he was still somewhat displeased. "Auntie, I can handle my own affairs, so please don't worry about me. I'll let it go this time, but please be more careful in the future..."

Bai Zechun naturally took this clear warning to heart. She nodded repeatedly to show that she had remembered it, "Okay, I will follow your instructions. Let's leave it at that for now?"

Then, she breathed a slight sigh of relief and turned to look at Takasaki Jun, as if begging for forgiveness, "Young Master Takasaki, please don't mind."

106, A Great Responsibility Descended from Heaven

Despite the unexpected turn of events, Jun Takasaki showed no fear or hesitation.

Moreover, judging from Bai Zechun's words and actions, she probably doesn't harbor any hostility towards me.

We'll see what tricks she's up to.

With this in mind, Jun Takasaki first said goodbye to Shoko, and then followed Tsubaki Shirasawa to a corner of the garden.

After making sure no one around could hear her conversation, Shirasawa Tsubaki stopped and turned around to face Takasaki Jun with a friendly smile.

"Young Master Takasaki, let's talk here."

"Please go ahead." Jun Takasaki nodded, indicating that they could get down to business.

“I just learned about your academic conference plan from Mr. Qinggao.” Bai Zechun immediately got straight to the point. “I will not comment on your plan itself. After all, since neither Miss nor Mr. Qinggao objects, I have no right to object. I am discussing this issue with you from the perspective of an implementer.”

"The execution level?" Jun Takasaki countered. "What do you mean by that?"

“This has two layers.” Bai Zechun smiled calmly, and then continued to explain, “First, Mr. Qinggao allocated funds to you out of his trust in you, but we must also abide by the most basic financial discipline. Therefore, I will audit your relevant expenditures. This is me fulfilling my duty. I hope you will not understand that we are targeting you, okay?”

Jun Takasaki immediately understood.

If you apply for funding yourself, then others naturally have the right to audit it, which is perfectly reasonable.

Although he didn't understand why such a small matter required the involvement of a high-ranking official like Bai Zechun, he figured it was the one paying the bills, so they could arrange things however they wanted.

“I have no objections,” Jun Takasaki shrugged. “I completely understand this approach and will fully cooperate with you. I will provide a detailed breakdown of all related expenses for your review—”

He never intended to use the pretext of rescuing Xiangzi to make money for himself, so his attitude was particularly open and honest, which made Bai Zechun feel more favorably toward him.

"It's so kind of you to understand us like this..." she breathed a sigh of relief. "Don't worry, I'm just doing my job and I would never take this opportunity to make things difficult for you."

Although Jun Takasaki was very polite, Tsubaki Shirasawa acted very cautiously, as if she was afraid of offending him.

This is certainly not because I'm afraid of him.

Although the Takasaki family is quite powerful, they can't do anything about her, so she doesn't need to be so apprehensive—but considering Shoko's attitude, it's a different story.

She had only suggested that they talk alone, and Xiangzi had already shown such a terrifying expression. If she were to be disrespectful to Master Takasaki and Xiangzi found out... the consequences would be unimaginable.

Although Xiangzi calls her "Auntie" every day, she's not so arrogant as to actually consider herself an elder.

“It’s alright, but what’s the other thing?” Jun Takasaki pressed.

"Another matter is the issue of overseas account operations that you raised," Bai Zechun replied calmly. "Your idea is good. Since it involves cutting-edge medical experiments, there will inevitably be legal risks. Therefore, we must do a good job of segregating funds in advance and avoid the risk of appearing in the media and court indictments under Xiangzi's name. We cannot afford even the slightest risk... However, you certainly lack practical experience in the specific implementation. I do not doubt your ability, but I think this is a matter of great importance, and we must not be rash."

Jun Takasaki sighed softly, "It's not that I'm arrogant. I've mentioned this issue to Shoko and suggested she find a professional, but she insisted that I do it, which left me with no choice."

What's wrong with you? Don't you really understand what Xiangzi means? Or are you just pretending not to understand? You're such a hypocrite.

Bai Zechun remained expressionless and pretended not to hear the young lady and young master's little romantic gesture. "Since the young lady has made this arrangement, she must have her reasons. I am only considering the execution of the arrangement and will never question your leading role."

After a pause, she continued, "What I'm considering is how to put the young lady's and your ideas into practice, and to minimize all risks, not just hers, but yours as well."

"So, you'll be involved too?" Jun Takasaki finally understood.

“Yes, since Miss will be investing her money in it, we can’t be careless. I will personally take charge of everything to ensure the safety of the funds and that they are used for the right purposes.” Bai Zechun nodded seriously. “Although this may cause some trouble, please believe me, it’s good for both of you. After all, although she doesn’t have much money now, she will have a huge amount of funds sooner or later. The sooner we prepare, the less risk there will be.”

Kiyotaka Toyokawa thought the idea of ​​offshore funds was absurd, but he acquiesced out of his doting love for his daughter. However, Tsubaki Shirasawa was completely different; she was very supportive.

It wasn't that she had that much confidence in Takasaki Jun, but rather that she saw an opportunity to slip in her own "personal agenda."

As a close friend and staunch confidante of Toyokawa Mizuho, ​​she was a staunch supporter of Xiangzi within the group, even more concerned about Xiangzi's leadership power than Toyokawa Kiyoko herself. Therefore, in her view, if Xiangzi could control funds independent of her own outside the group, it would inevitably give her more unhindered power.

We can take advantage of this young man's plan to quietly achieve this goal.

Therefore, she strongly supported Takasaki Jun's plan in front of Toyokawa Kiyotaka, and even volunteered to participate in it herself.

Jun Takasaki was unaware of her good intentions, but he did not object to the suggestion.

Or rather, he had no grounds to oppose it.

In essence, his plan still involved the Toyokawa family paying for it. As the saying goes, the one who spends the money is the boss, and the Toyokawa family has the right to decide how to use their money.

“I have no objection.” He nodded calmly. “In fact, I’m a little relieved. With professionals helping, I have more confidence.”

Seeing that Takasaki Jun was so easy to talk to, Shirasawa Tsubaki felt much more at ease.

It seems that young master Takasaki has a generous and tolerant personality. Even if he really becomes our son-in-law in the future, he should be easy to get along with.

However, at this moment, Jun Takasaki suddenly changed the subject, saying, "I also have a request."

"Hmm?" Bai Zechun was a little surprised, but still nodded. "Please speak, I will try my best to accommodate you within my authority."

“Since the Toyokawa family can arrange their own agents, shouldn’t I also be able to place someone I trust in there?” Jun Takasaki asked rhetorically.

He immediately became alert when Bai Zechun mentioned "potentially huge sums of money in the future," because it also meant a certain risk to him.

Although Bai Zechun doesn't seem like the type to betray her own people, what if she really uses this opportunity to cause trouble? I might end up being branded as someone who stole Xiangzi's money.

Therefore, you must find someone you can trust to help you, at least to avoid being wrongly accused.