Web Novel: Me and My Manager!

 Chapter 1: Pegasus Phenomena

Kids were glued to the mobiles, their fingers scrolling rapidly as they read. The Web Novel “Pegasus the Seeker of Truth”, had casted a magical spell on them.

It was a tale of a Pegasus living in a jungle, solving mysteries with his fluffy companions. The charm of the story was undeniable, captivating young minds with its blend of adventure and innocence.

Parents, amused by their children’s obsession, couldn’t help but share the novel’s link with others. Soon, the story was spreading like wildfire, becoming a hot topic among parents.

In a bustling park, a group of mothers sat on a bench, their laughter mingling with the children’s playful shouts.

“I am Pegasus, the Seeker of Truth!” Yoro declared; his tiny hand outstretched like a superhero.

“No, I am Pegasus!” Ren retorted, her eyes sparkling with determination.

Shino, not to be outdone, joined the fray, “The Pegasus is smart and good-looking, so it has to be me!”

The mothers watched the playful squabble with amusement.

“This Pegasus novel is quite popular among children, isn’t it?” one mother remarked.

“Shino eagerly awaits every new chapter,” another chimed in.

“At least, it’s encouraging them to read,” the third mother added with a smile.

Little did they know that the author of this beloved children’s story was about to embark on a new adventure, one that would take her far from the digital world and into the heart of Japan.

Chapter 2: The Morning Mayhem

Lara the author of “Pegasus the seeker of truth” asleep on her bed. Her room was a chaotic masterpiece of creativity and procrastination. A bed dominated the space.

A cluttered table was with papers, a pen, a digital tablet, and a poster of Pegasus and his fluffy companions.

An insistent beep from her alarm jolted Lara awake. Her eyes, still heavy with sleep, blinked open as she fumbled for her phone, silencing the alarm.

With a groan, she pulled the covers over her head, trying to escape the morning’s clutches. But a sudden jolt of panic woke her up.

“I had to post the new chapter yesterday” she exclaimed; her voice filled with urgency.

She scrambled out of bed, still in her pajamas. Her fingers danced across the tablet’s screen, desperately trying to access her web novel. In her haste, she fumbled with the buttons. Finally, with a triumphant sigh, she managed to publish the new chapter.

Lara let out a triumphant sigh, “Woosh, ah! At last, good job, Lara!” She patted herself on the back, mentally rewarding her for completing the task of publishing the new chapter.

With a yawn that could rival a hibernating bear’s, she collapsed onto her bed, pulling the covers up to her chin. “Goodnight,” she mumbled to the empty room.

A sharp knock on her door shattered the peaceful silence. Her mother’s voice, laced with urgency, cut through the fog of sleep. “Lara! You’re going to be late for college. Get up!”

Lara groaned, her body protesting the intrusion. “I’ll go tomorrow,” she mumbled into her pillow.

Her mother’s voice grew stern, “No one’s going to take your exam tomorrow, you know. Today is your exam day!”

With a jolt, Lara sprung upright, her sleepy haze dissipating instantly. “Exam? Crap! I forgot!” she exclaimed, panic setting in.

She rushed to the bathroom, the sounds of water splashing and teeth being brushed echoing through the room.

Lara’s room was a whirlwind of chaos, a kaleidoscope of scattered clothes, books, and half-eaten snacks.

Her mother, a seasoned veteran of Lara’s morning mishaps, marched in, her arms crossed. “How many times do I have to tell you to tidy up?” she scolded; her voice laced with exasperation.

Lara, lost in the frantic search for her uniform, offered a distracted smile. “I can’t find it!” she exclaimed.

Her mother approached, holding up a small mirror.

Lara glanced at her reflection. “Whoa, I actually look pretty good, don’t I?” she said, striking a pose.

A sheepish grin spread across Lara’s face as her mother lowered the mirror. “Oh, I slept in it yesterday. I forgot!” she laughed.

Her mother sighed, her patience wearing thin. “Come down and eat your breakfast,” she called.

“Hai!” Lara replied.

As she sat down to eat, her eyes drifted to her tablet, which was still on the table. A quick glance at her web novel revealed a staggering number of likes and views. A satisfied smile spread across her face.

Chapter 3: A Friend in Need

Meanwhile, in the bustling heart of Japan in KIDZ Studio, a hive of creativity and animation, Ryu, the assistant manager, stood poised before the imposing “Meeting Area” door.

A file, brimming with important documents, was clutched tightly in his hand.

The studio was a whirlwind of activity, with employees engrossed in their tasks – sketching, animating, and strategizing.

Amidst the chaos, two young female employees, Uma and Yuma, were engaged in a hushed conversation.

“I think I saw that guy somewhere before,” Uma mused, her eyes scanning the crowd.

“You mean the hot guy in the reception area? I remember we saw him last week with Ryu,” Yuma replied, her voice filled with a hint of admiration.

“Oh yeah, I remember now. What do you think he’s doing here?” Uma wondered aloud.

Ryu was grappling with his own dilemma. His phone buzzed insistently, the screen illuminating with a barrage of missed calls and messages from his friend Natsu.

“I want to meet you,” one message read. “Pick up the call,” another demanded. “Okay, I’m coming to your studio,” the last message stated.

With a sigh,  intending to call Natsu back. But fate, it seemed, had other plans. His phone battery died. “Not now,” Ryu muttered under his breath, checking his watch. The meeting was about to start in a few minutes.

Yuma and Uma approached Ryu. “Hey Ryu, ready for the meeting?” Uma asked.

“Yeah, about to start in 10 minutes,” Ryu replied.

“10 minutes and you’re already standing in front of the door, man. You’re really scared of that old man, aren’t you?” Yuma teased.

Ryu chuckled nervously. “That’s not… I mean, I don’t want to be late like last time, so I came early. By the way, don’t you two have work to do?”

“We do, but first, tell us what your friend is doing here,” Uma insisted.

“Who?” Ryu asked a little confused.

“Your hot, tall, black-haired, serious-looking friend. He’s standing in the reception area. We saw him just a while ago,” Yuma replied.

Ryu’s eyes widened. “Natsu!?” he exclaimed.

“He really came here to meet me? That means something serious.” Ryu thinks to himself.

Ryu rushed towards the reception area. “Hey, the meeting!” Uma called out.

“I’ll be on time, don’t worry,” Ryu replied, his mind racing.

Upon arriving at the reception area, Ryu found Natsu seated on the couch, a serious look etched on his face.

Aya, the receptionist, was attempting to persuade Natsu to return later. “Sir, it may take some time for Mr. Ryu to come. Why don’t you come later?” Aya suggested.

“I can wait,” Natsu replied, his voice steady.

Ryu’s arrival seemed to break the tension. “Oh, Mr. Ryu, I thought you would be in your meeting right now,” Aya exclaimed.

“No worries, I have some time before it starts,” Ryu assured her. He joined Natsu on the couch, a silent understanding passing between them.

“Never thought you would come here,” Ryu said.

Natsu simply replied with a noncommittal “hmm.”

Ryu sighed. “So, what brings you here?”

Natsu remained silent for a moment before responding, “You didn’t pick my calls or messages.”

“I didn’t realize, and then my phone battery died,” Ryu explained.

“So, anything important?” Ryu pressed.

Natsu hesitated before answering, “I need work.”

Ryu’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Don’t tell me you got fired again.”

Natsu didn’t respond.

Ryu placed a comforting hand on Natsu’s shoulder. “Don’t worry. I’ll help you look for a job after the meeting.”

Natsu nodded, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes.

Aya, sensing the tension easing, offered a suggestion. “Hey, Mr. Ryu, why don’t you talk to the manager? He might be able to help. There could be some jobs in the studio, but we know our manager isn’t the friendliest person.”

Ryu looked at Natsu, who seemed lost in thought. A glint appeared in Ryu’s eyes. “Well, at least I can try. There’s no harm in it, right?”

Natsu looked at Ryu, a glimmer of hope appearing in his eyes.

Ryu smiled reassuringly. “Chin up, your friend is here. So, no need to worry.”

Natsu nodded, a sense of relief washing over him.

Aya’s voice cut through the quiet. “Mr. Ryu, you’re going to be late. Hurry up, the meeting is about to start.”

Ryu checked his watch. “See ya later, Natsu. You head home, I’ll call you after.”

With a final pat on Natsu’s shoulder, Ryu stood up and hurried towards the meeting room, leaving Natsu alone in the reception area.

Chapter 4: The Exam Escape

Lara sat amidst a sea of students; her pen poised but her mind far from the exam paper. With a dramatic sigh, she realized she knew absolutely nothing.

Desperate times called for desperate measures. Her eyes darted around the room, landing on her friend, Tomi, who sat a few rows ahead. With a silent plea conveyed through puppy-dog eyes, Lara silently begged for help.

Tomi, understanding the silent cry for assistance, glanced at the teacher before subtly lifting her answer sheet. Lara, her eyes wide with gratitude, focused intently on the paper.

“Banana?” she muttered aloud, her confusion evident. The teacher, sensing something amiss, turned around, her gaze sharp. Lara and Tomi froze, their guilty expressions quickly masked by feigned concentration.

“May I ask what’s happening?” the teacher inquired sternly.

Lara and Tomi, their hearts pounding, resumed writing as if nothing unusual had occurred.

“I should have studied,” Lara mumbled under her breath, her voice barely audible.

The sweet release of the halftime bell filled the room with a wave of relief.

“Well, this isn’t a final exam just a test so…” Lara, with an exaggerated air of triumph, announced, “I’m done!”

The teacher raised an eyebrow, clearly puzzled. “It’s just halftime,” she replied, her tone laced with disbelief.

Ignoring the teacher’s confusion, Lara handed in her paper with a wide, carefree smile. “Bye!” she exclaimed cheerfully, exiting the classroom.

Teacher takes a look at Lara’s answer sheet there

were just drawings of Pegasus.

Teacher angrily shouts “Lara!!”

Tomi watched as Lara whistling and going out of school “Something never changes,” she muttered to herself, shaking her head.

Chapter 5: The Angry Boss

The meeting room was heavy with tension. Kudo, the studio’s manager, stood at the head of the table, his gaze piercing. Ryu, sat upright, his heart pounding.

“Ryu!” Kudo’s voice cut through the silence. Ryu jumped, startled from his thoughts.

“Yes, sir,” he replied, his voice barely a whisper.

“Did you contact the author?” Kudo asked, his tone demanding.

“Yes, sir. I emailed them this morning as you said, but they haven’t responded yet,” Ryu explained, his voice trembling slightly.

Kudo’s face darkened. “Not good, not good. I want you to do everything you can to persuade them. At any cost. Our studio’s last project was a disaster; we incurred huge losses.”

The room fell silent as Kudo’s words hung in the air.

The other employees averted their gaze, their faces etched with worry.

Ryu felt a surge of panic. How could he possibly persuade the author to sign a contract? And more importantly, how could he ask the manager for a job for Natsu amidst this chaos?

“Mr. Ryu, are you listening?” Kudo’s voice snapped Ryu out of his thoughts.

“Yes, yes, sir,” Ryu stammered, his mind racing.

“I want the author’s response by tomorrow, or you will be fired!” Kudo declared, his voice firm and angry.

A wave of dread washed over Ryu. He nodded vigorously, his voice filled with forced enthusiasm. “I will do everything I can, sir.”

The meeting ended abruptly, and the employees began to filter out of the room. Ryu lingered, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts.

“He’s so angry,” he muttered to himself, leaning against the door.

Yuma and Uma, who had been observing the tense meeting, approached Ryu.

“Seems like something didn’t go right,” Yuma commented.

Uma, with a mischievous glint in her eye, added, “Did that grumpy old man get angry again? He’s such a drama queen!”

Yuma giggled. “What else could it be?”

“Hey, don’t get upset about what he says. It’s his nature. He shouts at everyone, so chill out,” Uma reassured Ryu.

“Yeah, and your hot friend is still waiting for you at the reception,” Yuma teased.

Ryu’s eyes widened in surprise. “He’s still there?” he exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

Without another word, Ryu rushed towards the reception, leaving Yuma and Uma exchanging amused glances.

Ryu reached the reception, finding Natsu still occupying the same spot, his arms crossed and eyes closed in a pose of serene indifference.

Aya approached Ryu, explaining, “I suggested he come back later since your meeting would take time, but he insisted on waiting.”

Ryu walked over to Natsu and snapped his fingers, jolting him awake. “What are you doing here? You know the meeting would take a while. I told you to go home and I’d contact you later,” Ryu exclaimed, a hint of exasperation in his voice.

Natsu mumbled a quick apology “sorry I..”

 Ryu sighed, patting Natsu’s shoulder in an attempt to soothe his friend. “Don’t worry, I’ll try to find you a job soon enough,” he promised.

Natsu’s gaze dropped to the floor. Ryu noticed his friend’s stomach rumble unexpectedly. “You haven’t eaten anything, right? Want to go out to a café?” he suggested.

Natsu shook his head, declining the offer. But as he stood up to leave, his stomach grumbled again, betraying his hunger.

Ryu chuckled, “Hey, don’t worry, I’ll pay,” he insisted.

Natsu declined his face still expressionless.

Natsu walked out of the studio.

Ryu watches Natsu leave and feels a sense of responsibility towards his friend.

Chapter 6: Mom please….

Lara and Tomi sat in the cozy café, sipping their juice and savoring their pastries. Tomi, curious about Lara’s latest web novel, asked to see the likes and views.

Lara pulled out her tablet and showed Tomi the staggering numbers. Tomi was impressed, congratulating Lara on her success.

Suddenly, Lara’s eyes darted to an email notification she had received in the morning but forgot to check. She opened the email, and her eyes widened in excitement.

“Finally!” she exclaimed, jumping out of her seat.

Heads turned as everyone in the café glanced at Lara. Tomi gently nudged her. “Lara, people are looking,” she whispered.

Lara sat back down, her excitement still bubbling.

“What’s the matter?” Tomi asked.

“I just got an offer from Japan’s famous anime studio! They want my web novel to be an anime!” Lara squealed.

Tomi’s jaw dropped. “Whoa!”

Lara showed Tomi the email. “My dream is finally coming true!” she said, her voice filled with excitement.

“But it says you have to go to Japan for signing the contract and other deals,” Tomi pointed out, a concerned look on her face. “Will your parents agree to that?”

Lara’s confidence wavered slightly. “Of course, I’ll make them say yes,” she declared, trying to sound determined.

Back at Lara’s home, the atmosphere was tense. Her father, Rob, was a silent observer as Lara and her mother engaged in a heated debate.

“Absolutely no! I am not letting you go to Japan alone,” Lara’s mother, Lauren, stated firmly.

Lara puffed out her cheeks in frustration. “But why!”

“You can’t even clean your room, how will you take care of yourself?” Lauren retorted.

“I’m not going there forever. It’s just for the deal,” Lara argued.

“You can’t even make your own bread, how are you going to make a deal?” Lauren countered.

Lara, sensing an opportunity, turned to her father for support. “Dad, help me!” she pleaded.

Rob hesitated. “Lauren, honey, you should…” he began, but was cut off.

“You just don’t speak because of her! She’s like this because of you, Rob!” Lauren accused.

“Now, how did I come in between all this?” Rob asked, looking bewildered.

Lara, desperate to change the subject, offered a compromise. “Mom, I’ll clean my room. So can I go?”

Lauren shook her head stubbornly. “No.”

Lara raised the stakes. “I’ll score 100 marks!”

Lauren remained unmoved. “No.”

Lara’s mind raced. She had to come up with something convincing. “I’ll bring you a makeup kit so you look young!” she exclaimed, a hopeful glint in her eye.

Lauren’s expression softened for a moment before hardening again. “You mean I look old, huh?” she retorted, her voice laced with sarcasm.

Lara covered her mouth in horror. “Crap, I screwed up,” she thought to herself.

“In your room now!” Lauren ordered, her voice final.

Lara retreated to her room, defeated but determined.

Lauren’s expression softened as she sat beside Rob. “I think I was too hard on her,” she admitted, her voice filled with regret.

Rob reached out and took her hand. “Honey, I think we should let her do what she wants. She’s worked so hard for this.”

Lauren nodded, a thoughtful look on her face. “But it worries me how she’ll manage alone.”

Rob smiled reassuringly. “Our girl is braver than anyone else. She can handle herself. We can’t just keep her away from her dream. She’s been working on this for so long.”

Lauren’s eyes welled up with tears. “You’re right,” she whispered.

Rob squeezed her hand. “Now it’s time for her to achieve what she worked so hard for.”

With newfound determination, Lauren stood up and headed towards Lara’s room. “You’re right, honey,” she said to herself as she climbed the stairs.

Lauren peeked into Lara’s room, finding her daughter engrossed in writing her web novel. A warm smile spread across her face. She knocked gently on the door.

“Yes?” Lara responded, her attention still focused on her work.

Lauren entered the room. “I’m sorry for being so hard on you before,” she began, her voice filled with sincerity. “I know this is your dream, so I won’t stop you. You can go.”

Lara’s face lit up with excitement as she jumped up and hugged her mother tightly. “Mom, you’re the best!” she exclaimed.

Lauren returned the hug, a sense of pride and happiness filling her heart. “Okay, okay,” she said, pulling away slightly. “But you have to promise me you’ll be disciplined and won’t do anything crazy there.”

Lara saluted dramatically. “Your order, my life, sir!” she replied playfully.

“So go and reply to the email,” Lauren instructed.

Lara’s excitement reached new heights. “Oh, that! I already did at the café. They said they’ll book the ticket for tomorrow evening,” she announced triumphantly.

Lauren’s eyes widened in surprise, her gaze shifting to Rob, who wore a look of amused resignation. “So you knew I was going to say yes, Lara?” she asked, her voice laced with disbelief.

Lara grinned mischievously. “Well, I knew if you didn’t, Dad would persuade you anyway,” she replied.

Rob chuckled nervously, trying to defuse the situation. He gestured to Lauren, silently urging her to stay calm.

Lauren sighed, her resolve weakening. “Can’t be helped now, but tomorrow evening? Isn’t that too soon? You haven’t even started packing your stuff and other important things.”

Lara dramatically threw her arms in the air. “My sweet mother, I love you. Please pack my stuff!”

Lauren’s stern expression returned. “No,” she stated firmly.

She turned and left the room, adding, “Do it yourself, and Rob, dare to help him, and you’ll be sleeping outside the room.”

Rob chuckled nervously and followed Lauren out.

Lara slumped in her chair, dramatically sighing. “My mother, what a mother,” she muttered to herself.

“I should start packing. Ah, I’m already tired just thinking about it,” she yawned, collapsing into her chair.

Chapter 7:  The Worn Wallet

Natsu returned to his modest apartment, a worn-down dwelling that echoed with the quietness of solitude.

The door creaked open, revealing a simple interior that bore the marks of time. He entered, locking the door behind him.

In his room, a thin blanket spread out on the floor served as his bed.

He opened a drawer, pulling out a worn wallet. Inside, a meagre sum of money – a mere 300 yen – stared back at him. Disappointment and frustration washed over him as he returned the wallet to the drawer.

He headed to the bathroom, his reflection distorted by the cracked mirror. In a moment of anger and self-loathing, he punched his own face, a silent cry of despair echoing in the small room.

Chapter 8: Three Coffee’s

Morning sunlight streamed through the windows of KIDZ Studio, casting an optimistic glow over the bustling workspace.

Ryu, his nerves buzzing with anticipation, stood outside Manager Kudo’s office.

Ryu straightened his tie and took a deep breath before entering the office. Kudo, the ever-stern manager, sat behind his desk, his gaze fixed on Ryu.

“I assume you have good news,” Kudo declared, his voice devoid of warmth.

Ryu forced a smile. “Yes, sir! Yes, yes, sir,” he stammered. “The author has accepted our offer. She’ll send her details today and will be arriving tomorrow morning.”

Kudo’s expression remained impassive, but a flicker of approval might have crossed his features. “Hmm, good,” he grunted. “Now, prepare for her arrival. Don’t disappoint me.”

“Yes, sir!” Ryu replied, bowing nervously. He turned to leave but was stopped by another question.

“And who will manage them?” Kudo inquired.

“Sir, we’ve asked Mr. Hondou to do that,” Ryu explained.

Kudo contemplated the suggestion for a moment. “Hondou, hmm… Fine. You can leave and do your best,” he finally conceded.

With a sigh of relief, Ryu exited the office. The pressure was immense, but at least it wasn’t a complete disaster.

Ryu adjusted his tie, feeling a mix of anticipation and dread. He headed towards the office canteen, seeking solace in the company of his colleagues.

Yuma and Uma were already seated, and Yuma waved enthusiastically upon seeing him.

“Hey, here,” Yuma called out, gesturing to the empty seat beside her. Ryu heaved a sigh and sat down.

“Three coffees, please,” Uma ordered to the canteen worker.

Yuma nudged Ryu playfully. “Spill the beans, Ryu. It might lessen your burden,” she said, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Ryu ran a hand through his hair. “The author is coming tomorrow,” he revealed, his voice heavy with worry.

“The manager told me to manage everything, her welcome and all. How will I manage it all?” he lamented, shaking his head.

Yuma and Uma exchanged amused glances. “Don’t worry, leave the welcome to us,” Yuma assured him.

Uma chimed in, “Yeah, we are better at this, you know.”

Relief washed over Ryu. “Thank you, girls,” he said gratefully.

“The one coming, is it a her or a him?” Uma asked.

Ryu scratched his head. “The author is a girl, as far as I know,” he replied.

“How old is she?” Yuma inquired.

Ryu shrugged. “I don’t know. She said she would send details today.”

The canteen worker placed three steaming cups of coffee on the table and left.

Suddenly, a thunderous roar shook the building, and the lights flickered off. A moment of darkness ensued before the emergency generator kicked in, restoring the lights.

Yuma took a sip of her coffee. “The news said the weather wouldn’t be so sunny today,” she remarked.

Chapter 9: Pack It Up!

Meanwhile, in America, Lara was wrestling with her luggage, her room transformed into a chaotic battlefield of clothes. “One of the things I hate is packing,” she grumbled, searching for her missing jacket amidst the clutter.

A pang of regret hit her. “Should have listened to Mom,” she sighed, adopting a dramatic pose. Her stomach growled, reminding her of her basic needs.

“First fill the stomach, then the suitcase,” she declared, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Leaving the mess behind, Lara headed to the kitchen. “Mom, what’s for lunch?” she asked.

Lauren replied from the living room, “Have you packed your stuff?”

Lara’s response was swift and confident. “Oh yeah, yeah, only a little bit left,” she lied, a nervous smile playing on her lips.

Lauren narrowed her eyes, sensing something amiss. “Fine then, there’s pastry in the fridge. Eat it up, I have to do laundry,” she said, turning her attention back to her chores.

Lara breathed a sigh of relief. “Hehe, she believed me,” she whispered to herself.

Unbeknownst to Lara, Lauren had already started making her way up the stairs. She opened Lara’s room door and was greeted by a scene of utter chaos. Clothes were strewn everywhere, and the open suitcase contained a haphazard assortment of items.

Anger flashed in Lauren’s eyes. “This girl,” she muttered through clenched teeth.

Lara finished her pastry, savouring the last bite. She glanced at the clock, her eyes widening in surprise.

“Two PM already!” she exclaimed. “Let’s pack the stuff now,” she declared, pushing herself up from the chair.

As she leaned back, she caught a glimpse of her mother’s disapproving gaze. She gulped and sat up straight. “I was just about to pack,” she lied, a nervous smile plastered on her face.

Lauren crossed her arms, a look of disbelief etched on her face. “Just about? You have to reach the airport at 9 PM and you haven’t even started packing yet?” she scolded.

Lara joined her hands in a gesture of apology. “Sorry…” she mumbled.

Lauren sighed. “That’s why I didn’t want to send you alone.”

Lara nodded enthusiastically. “I promise I’ll pack it all now!” she declared, springing to her feet.

“I already knew you wouldn’t do it until the last moment, so I already packed your stuff,” Lauren revealed.

Lara’s eyes widened in astonishment. “What? You did?” she exclaimed, her face breaking into a wide smile.

She threw her arms around her mother in a tight hug. “Mom, you’re the best! I love you!”

Lauren returned the hug, a soft smile playing on her lips. “Yeah, yeah, now go and clean your messy room,” she instructed, pulling away from the embrace.

Lara’s smile faded as she realized the unfinished business. “Ha? You said you did!” she protested.

Lauren’s arms crossed firmly raises her brow in mock surprise “I said I packed your suitcase, I never said I cleaned your room,”.

Lara’s jaw dropped. With a heavy heart and defeated expression, she climbed the stairs, her adventure to Japan temporarily overshadowed by the daunting task of cleaning her room.

The day had flown by in a whirlwind of cleaning and packing. As the clock struck five, Lara collapsed onto her bed, her body aching from the unaccustomed exertion.

“Ah, my back hurts,” she groaned, reaching for her mobile phone.

Unlocking her phone, she found an email from the studio. Her eyes scanned the contents, a wide smile spreading across her face. “Dear…bla bla bla…will be picked up by your manager from the airport…he will assist you in your…” she read aloud, the words echoing in the quiet room.

“My very own manager!” she exclaimed, her excitement reaching new heights.

She hugged her pillow tightly, her imagination running wild. “My manager, handsome, lively, funny, joyful, flirty…oh my god, oh my god!” she squealed, burying her face in the pillow.

Chapter 10: Find a Manager.

Meanwhile, in Japan Natsu’s humble apartment was a stark contrast to the excitement building up at KIDZ Studio. He was on the phone, his voice laced with desperation. “I promise I will pay soon, I will pay soon,” he pleaded into the receiver.

The call ended with a heavy thud as he placed the receiver down. His face, etched with worry, reflected the stormy weather outside.

Grabbing an umbrella, he ventured out into the rain, the downpour mirroring the turmoil within him.

Natsu wandered the streets, from one shop to another, his hopes raised with each new prospect, only to be dashed by the cold reality of rejections.

“There is no job here. Leave, I have business to do,” a cafe owner barked at him, his words like icy daggers. Natsu stormed away, his fists clenched in frustration.

The rain intensified, transforming the streets into a glistening river.

Seeking refuge, Natsu found shelter beside a closed shop. Leaning against the shutter, he vented his anger by punching it.

Ryu was about to exit the office canteen when his phone buzzed with an alarming message. His face turned pale as he read the contents.

Yuma and Uma, sensing his distress, rushed to his side. “What’s that?” Uma asked.

Yuma leaned in to read the message, her expression turning from curiosity to shock. It was from Hondou, informing them that he couldn’t come for a week due to a family emergency – his wife had just given birth.

“My my,” Aya exclaimed, her voice filled with disbelief.

Ryu’s face was a mask of despair. “The manager will kill me,” he muttered, his voice trembling.

Yuma nodded in agreement. “Yeah, he will,” she said, her tone sombre.

Realizing Ryu’s growing stress

“Well, sorry,” she apologized, raising her hands in surrender.

Ryu’s world seemed to crumble around him. “Now what will I do?” he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Yuma offered a suggestion. “Ask someone else,” she said, her voice filled with hope.

Ryu shook his head. “Hondou was the only person free, that’s why I asked him,” he explained.

Uma’s face grew serious. “Gotta find someone else fast. When is the author arriving?” she asked.

Ryu’s heart sank as he realized the urgency of the situation. “Tomorrow, probably at 9 AM,” he replied.

Yuma’s voice turned into a whisper, each word carrying the weight of a thousand bricks. “And it’s 6 PM now. No chances of getting a good manager now,” she said, her words a stark reminder of their predicament.

Another blow landed on Ryu. “You might get fired,” Yuma added, her voice barely audible.

Uma quickly intervened, sensing the downward spiral.

“Yuma!” she exclaimed.

“Sorry, sorry, my bad. Hehe, don’t worry, everything is fine, Ryu…” she trailed off, realizing the futility of her attempt to cheer him up.

Ryu stood motionless, his mind racing. Aya, who was passing by stopped and spoke up. “Well, I remember your friend came desperately looking for a job. Why not ask him?” she suggested.

A spark of hope ignited in Ryu’s eyes. “You think Mr. Kodu will agree?” he asked, hesitant.

Uma nodded. “If you tell him that your friend is good at the job, and moreover, we have no other choice for now,” she explained.

Ryu’s face lit up with determination. “That’s right! I will ask Natsu!” he exclaimed, his voice filled with renewed hope. He shook Aya’s hand gratefully.

“You saved me, Aya. Thank you, thank you!” he said, his voice filled with emotion holding Aya’s hand she blushed slightly. Ryu rushed out of the canteen to find Natsu.

Yuma teased Aya, “Someone’s blushing here,” she said with a mischievous grin. Aya smiled shyly, her heart filled with a sense of accomplishment.

Ryu dashed through the rain, his umbrella struggling to keep pace with his urgent strides.

He frantically dialed Natsu’s number, his heart pounding in his chest. “Natsu, pick up, save me!” he pleaded into the phone, but to no avail, Natsu’s phone was switched off.

Desperation fueled Ryu’s actions as he raced towards Natsu’s apartment.

As fate would have it, he spotted Natsu standing under a shop’s overhang, his figure drenched by the relentless rain.

Ryu’s eyes lit up with relief as he waved and shouted Natsu’s name, his voice barely audible over the downpour.

Natsu, startled by the sudden commotion, turned to face Ryu. His expression was a mixture of confusion and surprise.

Ryu reached Natsu, his breath coming in short gasps. “Thank god you’re here,” he exclaimed, his voice filled with urgency.

He placed a hand on Natsu’s shoulder, his grip firm. “I need your help,” he declared, his eyes pleading for understanding.

Chapter 11: Airport Rush

Lauren returned home from the grocery store, her arms laden with bags. She found Rob sprawled out on the couch, lost in slumber.

“Rob!” she exclaimed, her voice sharp enough to pierce through his sleep.

Rob jumped, startled awake. “Who is it?” he mumbled, his eyes still half-closed.

“It’s me, honey,” Lauren replied, her tone laced with irritation. “Do you know what time it is?”

Rob rubbed his eyes sleepily. “Dinner, maybe?” he guessed.

Lauren crossed her arms, her annoyance growing. “It’s 6:30! I told you to get everything ready. We have to drop Lara at the airport before 7:30. She has a flight at 9 PM. Did you forget?”

Rob’s eyes widened in realization. “Oh, I slept a little,” he admitted sheepishly.

“Like father, like daughter,” Lauren muttered, shaking her head.

“Lara!” she called out, her voice echoing through the house. “Now don’t tell me…”

She marched towards Lara’s room and burst open the door, revealing a scene of chaos. Lara was fast asleep, her arms wrapped around her pillow.

Lauren’s anger intensified. “Lara, dear,” she whispered sarcastically, her voice dripping with venom.

Lara stirred in her sleep, mumbling incoherently.

“Wake up!” Lauren shouted, her patience wearing thin.

Lara jumped out of bed, startled by the sudden noise. She looked around frantically, her eyes wide with confusion. “Aahhh!” she screamed, her voice filled with terror.

She finally registered her mother’s presence. “M…mother,” she stammered, her voice trembling.

Lauren’s face was a mask of fury. “Get ready now or say goodbye to your Japan trip!” she threatened.

Lara nodded frantically, jumping out of bed and rushing to her wardrobe. In her haste, she started throwing clothes out haphazardly, accidentally landing on her mother’s head.

Rob, who had been a silent observer of the chaos, cautiously approached Lara. “Umm…Lara,” he began.

“Dad, I’m busy,” Lara retorted without looking back.

“Look back,” Rob insisted.

Lara finally turned around and saw the offending garment perched on her mother’s head. “Ma, what are you doing with my clothes on your head?” she asked, her voice filled with disbelief.

Lauren’s face turned an alarming shade of red. “Get out!” she roared, her voice echoing through the house.

Lara and Rob beat a hasty retreat from the room.

As Rob and Lara rushed out of the room, Lauren shut the door with a firm click.

Lara, still in shock, managed to say, “Dad, you should have told me earlier.”

Rob replied defensively, “I did.”

Lauren reopened the door, holding out a fresh set of clothes for Lara. “Change up fast,” she ordered, her voice stern but laced with a hint of concern.

Lara took the clothes gratefully. “Thank you, Mom,” she said, her voice still trembling slightly.

“Now go and change already,” Lauren insisted.

Lara nodded, her mind racing. “Ai, ai,” she mumbled, turning to leave. As she started walking towards the stairs, a realization hit her.

“Hehe,” she giggled nervously. “My room is a mess,” she admitted.

A wave of exasperation washed over Lauren. “This girl,” she muttered under her breath.

Rob, sensing the brewing storm, offered a distraction.

“Honey, you need some coffee,” he suggested, rubbing his temples as if warding off a headache.

Lauren nodded, her anger slowly subsiding. “Sure,” she replied, her voice still tinged with annoyance.

Airport

At the departure lounge, a wave of emotions washed over the family.

“It’s time,” Lauren announced, her voice tinged with a mixture of pride and sadness.

Lara hugged her parents tightly, a dramatic flair to her actions. “See ya soon,” she declared, her voice filled with a hint of bravado.

Rob, ever the sentimental one, played along. “Don’t forget your dad, my dear,” he said, his voice trembling slightly.

Lara reciprocated the dramatics. “I will never. I will be back,” she promised solemnly.

Lauren, amused by their theatrics, rolled her eyes.

“Okay, okay, enough now. Go, it’s getting late already. And don’t forget to call us. Be disciplined, no going here and there, no troubling others. Call us if anything is an emergency, okay?” she instructed, her maternal instincts kicking in.

“Mom, I’m not a kid anymore,” Lara protested playfully.

Lauren gave her a stern look. “Better not be,” she replied.

With one last hug, Lara pulled away and grabbed her luggage. “Take care,” she said, waving goodbye to her parents.

Lauren and Rob waved back, their hearts heavy with a mix of pride and longing.

Lauren and Rob turned back to go home, their hearts heavy with a mix of pride and sadness. As they walked towards the exit, they heard Lara’s voice.

“Wait!” she shouted, running towards them breathlessly.

They turned around to find Lara panting heavily.

“Now what’s this about?” Lauren asked, a hint of exasperation in her voice.

Lara’s face was flushed with embarrassment. “I forgot the ticket with Dad!” she exclaimed, her voice barely audible.

Lauren sighed, shaking her head. Rob quickly handed Lara the ticket, and she dashed back towards the departure gate.

“Bye!” she shouted, disappearing into the crowd.

Lauren and Rob watched her go, a mix of emotions swirling within them.

Chapter 12: Manager huh?

Ryu and Natsu sat in a small, cozy café, the soft clinking of spoons against coffee cups providing a soothing backdrop to their conversation.

“Please say yes,” Ryu pleaded, his eyes filled with hope. “Only you can save me now.”

Natsu sat quietly, his arms crossed, his eyes closed in contemplation. After a long moment of silence, he finally spoke. “I will,” he said, his voice flat and emotionless.

Ryu’s eyes lit up with excitement. “You will?” he exclaimed, his voice filled with joy.

Natsu nodded, his expression unchanged. But inside, a silent battle raged. “I need a job anyways,” he thought to himself, a flicker of determination passing through his eyes.

Ryu’s happiness was palpable. “You’re the best!” he declared, his enthusiasm overflowing. He stood up and headed towards the counter to order cake for them both.

Left alone, Natsu gazed out the window, his mind racing. “Manager, huh?”

Chapter 13: Relax..

Lara gazed out the airplane window, mesmerized by the breathtaking tapestry of colors that stretched out below. “So beautiful,” she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder. “I never realized my America would look like this from up here.”

She leaned back against the seat, a sense of peace washing over her.

An elderly woman seated beside her observed Lara with a kind smile. “Going alone, dear?” she asked gently.

Lara, eager to impress, replied confidently, “Yes, I’m going for a business trip,” her voice brimming with pride.

The old lady nodded, her eyes twinkling with admiration. “Business trip at this age, you sure are talented then,” she complimented.

Lara beamed with satisfaction. Just as she was about to bask in the glow of her accomplishment, her phone buzzed, snapping her out of her reverie.

A cold wind seemed to blow through her mind, leaving her frozen in shock.

“Dear, are you okay?” the old lady asked, noticing Lara’s sudden change in demeanor.

Lara’s mind raced, a million thoughts swirling within her.

“I forgot to send my details only my name,” she realized with a jolt.

“But there’s no point in worrying now,” she thought to herself. “I’ll figure it out when I reach there I have their E-mail so just relax.”

With a sigh, she leaned back against the seat and closed her eyes. “Let’s just sit back and relax,” she whispered to herself. “My Dream and My Manager…”

And with that, Lara drifted off to sleep, her worries temporarily forgotten.

Chapter 14: Welcome to Japan

The first rays of sunlight peeked through the curtains as Ryu stood outside Natsu’s apartment, his impatience growing. He knocked on the door.

Without a word, Ryu held up a bag. “Ta-da,” he announced.

Natsu looked at the bag with confusion. Ryu urged him to open it. Inside, a neatly folded suit revealed itself.

“You’re going to be a manager, so you should also look like one,” Ryu explained. “I asked Uma and Yuma to dress this up.”

Uma and Yuma, it turned out, had a hidden talent for fashion, having worked at a boutique previously.

Natsu stared at the suit, his expression a mixture of surprise and reluctance. Ryu, sensing his hesitation, pushed him gently towards the apartment. “Now go change. The flight will land in an hour,” he said, closing the door behind him.

After a few moments, the door reopened, and Natsu emerged, transformed by the suit. He looked sharp, almost unrecognizable from the disheveled figure Ryu had seen earlier. Ryu’s jaw dropped in astonishment. “My my, you look really good in it, Natsu,” he complimented, his voice filled with genuine admiration.

Natsu glanced down at himself, a hint of surprise in his eyes. Ryu pulled out a bouquet of flowers from another bag. “Here, it’s for the author. When she arrives, give this to her,” he instructed.

Natsu took the bouquet, his expression a mix of confusion. “How will I identify her?” he asked, his voice filled with doubt.

Ryu chuckled nervously. “Hehe,” he began, but the laughter died down as he realized the gravity of the situation. “She didn’t send anything else other than her name so….,” he admitted, his voice filled with regret.

Natsu’s face turned serious.

At the bustling Japan International Airport, Natsu stood out like a sore thumb. His face was turned downwards, and in his hands, he held a large board boldly proclaiming, “LARA – Author of Pegasus the Seeker of Truth.”

Heads turned, eyes lingered on the unusual sight. Natsu became the unwitting centre of attention. He was acutely aware of every pair of eyes scanning him and the board, their expressions a mix of curiosity and amusement.

The plane touched down with a gentle thud, and passengers began to disembark. The air hostess, conducting a final check of the cabin, heard a soft snoring sound. Following the sound, she spotted Lara, fast asleep in her seat.

“Excuse me, miss,” the air hostess gently shook Lara awake.

Lara stirred, mumbling incoherently, “Ghhhg…”

The air hostess shook Lara again, her voice firm this time. “Miss!”

Lara’s eyes snapped open, her dream world shattered. “Is it morning already?” she mumbled, still groggy.

The air hostess chuckled. “Miss, the plane has landed,” she repeated.

Lara’s eyes widened in realization. “What? Plane? Umm…” she trailed off, her mind still foggy.

Suddenly, the urgency of the situation hit her. “I am late!” she exclaimed, jumping out of her seat and grabbing her luggage. She rushed towards the exit, leaving the air hostess to shake her head in amusement. “What a girl,” she muttered to herself.

Lara stood at the air stairs, her heart pounding with excitement. She was about to step into Japan and make her dream a reality. Her eyes ignited with determination and passion.

“It’s finally time to let everyone know that I’ve finally arrived and from now on, in no time, I would reach the stars of success!” she declared loudly, her voice echoing through the airport.

People nearby were confused and watched her with curiosity. Lara, oblivious to their stares, took her first step down the airstairs, her stride filled with confidence.

As she moved forward, she accidentally skipped a step and stumbled. “Ouch!” she exclaimed, quickly regaining her balance.

People around her glanced at her with concern. Lara dusted herself off and regained her composure.

“Small accidents happen,” she said, clearing her throat. She continued walking confidently, her eyes closed in determination.

Unfortunately, her confidence was short-lived. She bumped into a wall, causing her to stumble again.

Chapter 15: I am HER? Manager!

Natsu stood at the arrivals gate, his patience wearing thin. He glanced at his watch, the time ticking away relentlessly. “Where in the world is she?” he muttered to himself.

All eyes seemed to be on him as he held the conspicuous board. A security guard’s voice cut through the air. “Miss, stop!”

Everyone’s attention shifted to the commotion. Lara, her face flushed with anger, was engaged in a heated argument with a man whose face bore the marks of a recent altercation.

“It was his doing,” Lara insisted, her voice filled with righteous indignation.

The man retorted, “You were the one who punched me!”

Lara’s response was swift and decisive. “Say another word, and I’ll make your second eye purple just like the other one, pervert!” she threatened, her voice dripping with contempt.

The security guard intervened, his voice firm. “This is an airport, not a street fight arena!” he reprimanded Lara.

Lara, although subdued, was clearly not impressed. “Fine,” she muttered, her defiance evident.

The security guard gave her a warning before walking away.

Natsu, having witnessed the entire drama unfold, adopted a stern expression. He scanned the crowd, his gaze focused on finding the author.

Lara, her luggage in tow, looked around, confusion written on her face. “Now how will I find the person who is here to pick me up?” she wondered aloud.

Lara’s eyes darted around the bustling airport, searching for a familiar face. Suddenly, a glint of recognition caught her attention. A large board, held aloft by a man, displayed her name and the title of her book: “Lara – Author of Pegasus the Seeker of Truth.” She looked at Natsu who was holding the sign.

Her heart skipped a beat. Could this be him? Her “Hot and handsome manager”? In her mind, a fantastical image bloomed. This must be her dashing welcome to Japan! Butterflies fluttered in her stomach as she envisioned herself running towards the man, him chasing after her playfully, a scene straight out of a romance novel.

“My prince is here to take me!” she declared internally, her eyes sparkling with a fabricated reality.

Lost in her daydream, Lara remained rooted to the spot, a wide, goofy grin plastered on her face. The surrounding crowd, including Natsu himself, couldn’t help but stare at this strange, open-mouthed girl.

“Creep,” he muttered under his breath, turning his head away from the spectacle.

Lara, oblivious to the chaos she was causing, finally shook her head, snapping out of her daydream. She blinked, the fantastical scene replaced by the reality of the crowded airport.

Lara, a mischievous glint in her eye, devised a plan. She would walk towards Natsu, act like she was about to fall, and let him catch her in a heroic rescue. In her mind, she was already swooning in his arms, their eyes locked in a passionate gaze.

She began her approach, whistling a carefree tune, pretending not to notice Natsu’s presence. As she drew closer, she executed her plan. With dramatic flair, she spun around, throwing her arms out as if to lose balance. Her internal monologue was filled with excitement as she imagined Natsu swooping in to save her.

But reality had other plans. Lara, in her overzealous attempt to create a cinematic moment, ended up falling flat on her face with a resounding thud. The graceful fall she had envisioned turned into a comical spectacle.

Natsu, who had been observing her antics with a mixture of amusement and disbelief, looked away, pretending not to notice the fallen woman.

Lara groaned in pain, “Ouchy!” she exclaimed, her face scrunched up in discomfort. In her mind, a cartoon-like fountain of water was spraying out of her eyes, symbolizing her dramatic disappointment. She looked at Natsu, her cheeks puffed out like a disgruntled hamster.

Natsu, feeling a pang of sympathy, extended his hand to help her up. Lara’s face instantly transformed. A blush crept up her cheeks as she imagined herself in a romantic scene. “Ahh, finally,” she thought excitedly.

Ignoring the curious stares of the onlookers, Lara took Natsu’s hand and allowed him to pull her up. “Thanks,” she said, her voice barely a whisper.

Natsu, clearly uncomfortable with the physical contact, quickly averted his gaze.

“Looking for someone?” Lara asked, but Natsu didn’t responded she asked again but still no response.

Leaning closer to Natsu she speaking loudly in his ear.

Natsu was startled by her sudden proximity. “What the heck are you doing?” he snapped, his voice sharp.

Lara pouted playfully. “Just asking if you’re looking for someone,” she retorted.

She turned her attention back to the board, pretending to read it intently. “Aha, Lara, the author of Pegasus the Seeker of Truth, huh?” she said, her voice filled with mock surprise.

Natsu scanned the crowd, his expression one of focused determination. “Did you find her?” Lara asked, her curiosity piqued.

Natsu’s response was curt. “If I did, I wouldn’t be here tolerating you,” he replied.

Lara, undeterred by his bluntness, offered her assistance. “Well, you need some help,” she insisted, her voice dripping with fake sympathy.

Natsu hesitated for a moment before responding, “No,” his voice firm. Lara, refusing to give up, persisted. “Hey, never say no to a free thing, especially help,” she insisted, her smile infectious.

Natsu remained silent, his gaze fixed on something beyond Lara. He was determined to find the author and escape this bizarre encounter.

Lara, oblivious to his disinterest, was basking in her own spotlight. She decided to take matters into her own hands. “Well, I know the one you’re looking for,” she announced confidently.

Natsu finally turned his attention to her, his expression one of pure confusion.

Lara, sensing an opportunity to shine, struck a pose. She placed one hand on her waist and the other on her head, striking a model-like pose. “Ta-da!” she declared dramatically.

Natsu’s expression remained unchanged. “Cringe,” he mumbled.

Lara, mistaking his silence for admiration, continued. “The beautiful girl who wrote the famous novel. People call me the star of America,” she boasted, her voice filled with self-importance.

Natsu’s jaw dropped in astonishment. “What the…HER?” he muttered, his mind struggling to comprehend the situation. A cold wind seemed to blow through his mind, leaving him speechless.

Lara’s surprise quickly turned into amusement. “Surprised, aren’t you?” she teased, a playful glint in her eye.

Natsu stood there, his mind racing, trying to process the whirlwind of events. He remembered the phone call he had received earlier, pleading for money, and Ryu’s desperate plea for help. With a newfound determination, he cleared his throat and regained his composure he handed Lara the bouquet and bowed to welcome her.

“We are getting late,” he stated simply, his voice firm. He picked up Lara’s luggage and turned around without another word.

Lara’s eyes widened in surprise. “Wow, what a quick change,” she muttered to herself, a sense of admiration creeping into her voice.

Chapter 16: Seatbelt

As they approached the car, Lara couldn’t contain her excitement. “Let’s go!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with anticipation. Natsu, however, maintained his stoic demeanour.

Natsu opened the backseat door for her, expecting her to sit there. “Sit,” he ordered, his voice laced with a hint of exasperation. To his surprise, Lara had already slipped into the front passenger seat. She waved at him with a mischievous grin.

Natsu sighed, placing Lara’s luggage in the trunk.

Natsu ran a hand through his hair, a silent plea for patience. He got into the driver’s seat and buckled up. “Ugh,” he muttered under his breath, his frustration evident.

Natsu pulled out his phone and quickly typed a message to Ryu, informing him that they were on their way. Ryu’s immediate reply, a simple “All ready here 🙏🏻”, appeared on the screen. Natsu slipped his phone back into his pocket and started the car.

Lara’s excitement was palpable. “Let’s go!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with anticipation. Natsu, however, maintained his stoic demeanour.

Lara asked Natsu his name as she didn’t know. Natsu replied in a firm tone, “Natsu.”

“Woah, that’s an old name. There um… I mean, that’s a very nice name,” Lara said, trying to sound more natural.

Natsu, still focused on driving, didn’t react.

“So you’re my manager? Right?” Lara asked with starry eyes.

Natsu looked at her. “What’s up with these eyes?” he thought to himself with amused surprise.

“Yes I will be your manager.” Natsu replied.

“That would be perfect!” Lara said happily.

Lara bombarded Natsu with questions, her excitement evident. Natsu’s patience was wearing thin. “Could you keep quiet for a while? I’m driving,” he said, his tone slightly annoyed.

“I speak a lot, don’t I? Old habit,” Lara admitted, looking out the window at the passing streets.

“Aa, so beautiful,” she exclaimed, mesmerized by the sights of Japan.

Her eyes darted towards a perfume ad featuring a boy and a girl holding hands closely. She got lost in her own world, daydreaming.

Lara began to imagine a scenario where she would subtly apply her perfume, the scent enchanting Natsu. He would compliment her, their hands brushing against each other, igniting a spark of attraction.

As she reached for her perfume, hidden in her jacket pocket, a satisfied smirk played on her lips. She sprayed the perfume generously, closing her eyes as she imagined the intoxicating aroma filling the car.

Natsu, sensing an unusual scent, sniffed the air. His expression remained unchanged, but a hint of annoyance flickered in his eyes. To dispel the fragrance, he rolled down the car window, letting the fresh air circulate.

Lara’s daydream shattered like a bubble. Her eyes widened in disbelief as the perfume she had applied with such care vanished into thin air. A defeated expression crossed her face.

Lara, exhausted from the day’s events, closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

Natsu, having brought the car to a halt at a red light, took a moment to observe his passenger. Lara was fast asleep, her head tilted slightly to one side. A sigh escaped his lips as he realized the situation they were in.

Suddenly, a nagging thought struck him. Lara wasn’t wearing her seatbelt. He reached out to wake her up but hesitated at the last moment. He reached out to wake her up but hesitated at the last moment.

Gathering his courage, he leaned closer, his hand hovering over the seatbelt buckle. As he was about to fasten it, Lara’s head turned, bringing their faces little close. As he was about to secure the belt, the traffic light turned green, and the cars behind them began honking impatiently.

Startled by the sudden noise, Lara jolted awake. Both of them blushed intensely, their eyes locked in an awkward moment.

Natsu quickly retracted his hand, his heart pounding. “Put on the seatbelt,” he managed to say, his voice barely above a whisper.

Lara, nodded obediently and fastened the seatbelt.

Natsu was a bundle of nerves. His heart raced as he focused on the road, his mind replaying the awkward encounter with Lara. “Hell,” he muttered under his breath, his frustration evident.

Meanwhile, Lara was on cloud nine. The close proximity to Natsu had sent her imagination into overdrive. She replayed the moment in her mind, adding her own dramatic flair. She was lost in her fantasy world, a blissful smile plastered on her face.

For the rest of the journey, an awkward silence enveloped the car. Natsu was eager to reach the studio and escape the uncomfortable tension, while Lara was content to bask in the afterglow of her daydream.

Chapter 17: Arrival at KIDZ

Natsu pulled up in front of the studio, a sense of relief washing over him as he parked the car. He turned to Lara, who was already brimming with excitement.

“We arrived!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with anticipation.

She stepped out of the car, her eyes widening in awe at the imposing building. “Ah, finally!” she declared, her voice echoing with excitement.

Yuma and Uma, standing at the entrance, were ready to greet their new guest. They held party poppers in their hands, a playful welcome gesture. With a synchronized movement, they pulled the strings, filling the air with colourful confetti and a burst of sound.

Lara, startled by the unexpected surprise, jumped back. “Ah!” she exclaimed, her hand instinctively going to her chest.

Yuma and Uma giggled. “Welcome to KIDZ Studio,” Yuma introduced herself.

“And I’m Uma,” Uma added, extending her hand for a handshake.

Lara smiled. “I’m Lara,” she replied, a hint of self-importance in her voice.

Yuma and Uma exchanged amused glances. “Welcome, Lara,” Yuma said.

Uma and Yuma, their enthusiasm undiminished, grabbed Lara by the arms and ushered her into the studio building. “Come on, everyone is waiting for you,” Uma said excitedly.

Natsu watched the scene unfold from the car, a mixture of relief washing over him. He rested his head on the steering wheel, taking a moment to collect himself.

Inside the studio, Ryu and Aya stood at the entrance, ready to greet their new guest. Upon seeing Lara, they bowed respectfully. “Welcome, Miss Lara,” they said in unison.

Lara returned the bow, her smile wide and infectious. “Hello!” she greeted them cheerfully.

Aya, holding a pack of sweets, offered one to Lara as a welcome gesture. “Here,” she said with a smile.

Lara’s eyes lit up at the sight of the sweets. “Ah, my favourite,” she exclaimed, taking one and popping it into her mouth. “It’s delicious, thanks,” she added, her appreciation genuine.

“You’re welcome,” Aya replied.

Encouraged by Lara’s enthusiasm, Yuma and Uma also helped themselves to the sweets. “It’s delicious,” they agreed in unison.

Aya offered one to Ryu. “Here…” she said with a gentle blush, holding out the sweet.

Ryu hesitated for a moment before accepting it. “Umm, well…” he began.

Yuma and Uma, sensing an opportunity for entertainment, chimed in. “Eat it or we will,” they threatened playfully.

Ryu, realizing he had no choice, quickly popped the sweet into his mouth. “Nice,” he said, trying to appear indifferent.

“How was your trip, Miss Lara?” Aya asked, breaking the playful banter.

Lara beamed. “It was good,” she replied, her voice filled with excitement.

Uma, ever the tease, added, “It has to be, right? Cause ..,” she said, winking at Lara.

Lara blushed, she protested, trying to hide her embarrassment.

Yuma and Uma giggled at Lara’s reaction.

“Stop it you two,” Ryu said.

The atmosphere shifted as Mr. Kudo, the studio’s manager, made his entrance.

“Well, well, I see the guest has arrived,” he announced, his voice carrying an air of authority.

Ryu, startled by his boss’s sudden appearance, stood up straight. Yuma and Uma, sensing the change in atmosphere, moved closer beside Ryu and Aya.

Lara, oblivious to the undercurrents, extended her hand for a handshake. “Nice to meet you, Sir,” she said, her voice filled with enthusiasm. “It’s a pleasure to be here.”

Mr. Kudo shook her hand warmly. “The pleasure is all ours to have your presence in our studio,” he replied, his tone cordial.

Yuma and Uma exchanged amused glances. “Our manager is being exceptionally nice,” Yuma whispered to Uma.

Uma nodded in agreement. “Yeah, only when he is getting a good amount of profit,” she replied.

Ryu, tried to maintain a neutral expression. “Mr. Ryu,” Kudo addressed him directly, his voice stern. “Where is Miss Lara’s manager? You told me earlier.”

Ryu’s heart skipped a beat. “Umm…” he stammered, his mind racing.

Lara, oblivious to the tension, answered cheerfully, “Oh, he went to park the car.”

Kudo nodded, his expression unreadable. “I see,” he said, his voice carrying a hint of scepticism. “So, was the trip good? Was the manager good? If any problem, you can tell us.”

Lara beamed. “It was good, and the manager was great,” she finished.

Kudo’s eyebrows raised slightly, a hint of amusement in his eyes. “That’s good,” he said, turning to Ryu. “Mr. Ryu, help Miss Lara and guide her around the studio. I will be in my cabin, and also get the manager here as well. I want to meet him in person.”

Ryu nodded, understanding the unspoken urgency in his boss’s voice. “Yes, sir,” he replied, his voice filled with nervousness and determination.

Mr. Kudo’s departure brought a wave of relief to the remaining employees. Ryu let out a long, drawn-out sigh.

“Phew,” he exclaimed, his shoulders slumping in relief.

Lara, oblivious to the tension, commented cheerfully, “He looks friendly and nice.”

Yuma and Uma exchanged amused glances. “He was being too nice,” Yuma remarked.

“Yeah,” Uma agreed.

“Miss Lara..” Ryu began, but Lara interrupted him.

“Call me Lara. We’re all friends here, right?” she said, smiling.

“Miss Lara, oh I mean Lara, wait here. Let me get Natsu,” Ryu stammered.

Lara, waved him off. “Sure,” she said.

Yuma and Uma, ever the entertainers, took it upon themselves to entertain Lara. “Don’t worry, we are here with her,” Yuma assured Ryu.

“Yeah, let’s go to the cafeteria, Lara,” Uma suggested, grabbing Lara’s arm.

Ryu nodded, relieved to have a moment to himself. “Hey, be careful,” he called out to them.

Yuma and Uma waved cheerfully as they led Lara away. “We can count on us,” Uma said confidently.

Aya announced, “I shall also head to the reception as well.”

Ryu nodded in agreement. “Hai,” he replied and rushed out.

As Ryu exited the studio, he collided with someone, stumbling backward. “Ouch!” he exclaimed, rubbing his head. He looked up to find Natsu standing in front of him.

“It’s you,” Ryu said, relief washing over him. “Where were you?” he asked, his voice laced with urgency.

Natsu, his face impassive, replied, “An important call,” his tone leaving no room for further questioning.

Ryu nodded, understanding the unspoken message. “So, how was all the trip with Lara?” he inquired, trying to lighten the mood.

Natsu’s responded with a sigh “Headache but never mind anything else, I need to do,” he said, his focus unwavering.

Ryu sensed Natsu’s impatience and didn’t press the issue further. “We need to go quickly, the manager of the studio wants to meet you in person,” he said, leading the way.

Natsu followed, his mind occupied with his own thoughts. “When will I get my money?” he asked, his voice devoid of emotion.

Ryu assured him, “Don’t worry, you’ll get it soon.”

With that, they set off towards the studio, the weight of their respective concerns hanging heavy in the air. Natsu focused on reaching the manager’s office.

Chapter 18: Dismissed

“Here we are,” Ryu announced reaching Kudos Cabin, his voice barely audible.

Natsu nodded, his expression impassive.

“Please be professional,” Ryu reminded him, a hint of concern in his voice.

Natsu simply nodded in response.

Together, they approached Kudo’s cabin and knocked on the door.

“Come in,” Kudo’s voice called out from inside.

Ryu entered Kudo’s cabin first, his demeanour respectful. “Sir, Miss Lara’s manager is here,” he announced, his voice filled with a hint of nervousness.

Kudo, seated behind his desk, nodded in acknowledgment. “Let him in,” he instructed, his tone commanding.

Ryu gestured for Natsu to enter, and the latter complied, bowing slightly as a sign of respect.

Kudo examined Natsu from head to toe, his gaze lingering on the other man’s appearance. “Not bad,” he commented, his voice carrying a hint of approval.

“You go and give Miss Lara a tour. I want to talk to the manager alone,” Kudo instructed Ryu.

Ryu bowed in acknowledgment. “Hai, sir,” he replied, turning to Natsu and giving him a thumbs-up gesture discreetly. “Good luck,” he mouthed silently, hoping to boost Natsu’s confidence.

With a final nod to Kudo, Ryu exited the cabin, leaving Natsu alone with the manager.

Kudo turned his attention back to Natsu. “What’s your name?” he asked, his voice firm.

Natsu responded simply, “Natsu.”

Kudo nodded, his expression impassive. “Have a seat, Mr. Natsu,” he invited, gesturing towards the chair in front of his desk.

Natsu sat down in the chair across from Kudo, his posture straight.Kudo asked Natsu about his qualifications.

“High school,” Natsu replied.

“And?” Kudo pressed.

“I studied till high school only,” Natsu clarified.

Kudo raised an eyebrow. “You mean you have no higher education? Well, what do you do for a living? Any jobs you’ve had before? Any experience you have that would qualify you for this manager position?”

Natsu remained firm. “Did some Part-time jobs at restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and others,” he replied.

Kudo leaned back in his chair, considering Natsu’s qualifications. “You’re saying you don’t have higher education nor a good job experience, and you expect to get this job as a manager? That’s kind of bold of you to assume that,” he commented.

Natsu sat still, his expression unchanged.

Kudo continued, “You said you work part-time for a living. So why this job? What do you expect to earn now?”

Natsu replied without hesitation, “Money.”

“Kudo leaned forward, his gaze piercing. “Money, huh? That’s all you care about?” he asked, his voice laced with contempt. “You think you can just waltz in here, with no qualifications, and expect to be given a managerial position? You’re a dreamer, boy.”

Natsu held Kudo’s gaze, “I’m not a dreamer, sir,” he countered, his voice firm. “I need this job and the money. But I promise I’ll work hard and prove myself as a good manager, capable of holding this position. I just need a chance.”

Kudo scoffed. “You mean I should risk our big project in the hands of an incapable, inexperienced guy who needs a chance? Don’t make me laugh.”

Natsu felt his patience wearing thin. “Sir, with all due respect, I understand your concern,” he said, his voice calm despite the rising frustration. “But I’m confident in my abilities. I can learn quickly and adapt to any situation. Give me a chance, and I won’t let you down.”

Kudo studied Natsu for a long moment, a flicker of doubt appearing in his eyes. “That’s what I hear every time,” he said finally, his voice low. “And then what? A disaster. You need this job for money, you say. You’ll probably ask for an advance when you get the money, then rub away. I know people like you, who brag about doing their best at first, then give up, huh?”

Natsu straightened in his chair, his eyes flashing with a mix of anger and determination. “I’m not like those people,” he said, his voice rising slightly. “I know the importance of this job. It’s not only about you or this studio’s future, but also mine. I desperately looked for a job and asked for a chance, but always they said the same thing as you did. I know I may not be qualified or experienced like others, but I am way more dedicated and determined than them because I know the importance it holds to you all and me!”

Kudo gazed at Natsu narrowly. “That was a nice speech. Now, before I say something else, you may leave,” he said, dismissing Natsu.

Chapter 19: Short Tour

Meanwhile, in the studio, Ryu opened the door to a bustling room filled with employees engrossed in their work. “This is the voice recording room,” he explained to Lara, his voice echoing in the vibrant space.

Lara’s eyes widened in awe. “Woah, it’s great!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement. Suddenly, a stern voice shushed Lara, interrupting her enthusiasm.

Lara apologized quickly. “Sorry,” she mumbled, realizing the importance of maintaining a quiet environment.

Ryu chuckled. “There’s no noise rule in this room,” he assured her, his voice soothing.

Lara breathed a sigh of relief. “I understand,” she replied, nodding in agreement.

As they continued their tour, Ryu closed the door behind them, leaving the voice recording room behind.

Ryu and Lara continued their tour of the studio, their footsteps echoing in the spacious corridors.

“So, did you like our studio?” Ryu asked, breaking the silence.

Lara’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Hai, it’s awesome! My dream is finally coming true,” she exclaimed, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

Just as they were about to delve deeper into their conversation, Ryu’s phone rang, interrupting the flow. He excused himself and answered the call.

“What? Well, right now I’m kind of busy,” he replied, his tone apologetic.

Lara, understanding his situation, reassured him. “Don’t worry, if you have something urgent to do, you can go. I’ll be good by myself,” she said with a reassuring smile.

Ryu nodded, grateful for her understanding. “Okay, I will be back soon,” he promised before leaving.

Chapter 20: Stay Away!

Lara continued her exploration of the studio, her arms swinging behind her head as she whistled a cheerful tune. Lost in her own world, she failed to notice Natsu emerging from Kudo’s office.

Natsu stormed out of the office, his face a mask of anger. His fists were clenched tightly, his body language speaking volumes about the intensity of the conversation he had just had.

Lara, oblivious to Natsu’s distress, waved at him enthusiastically, calling out his name. But Natsu, engrossed in his own thoughts, didn’t seem to notice her.

Lara followed him at a distance.

As Lara was following Natsu, her enthusiasm for exploration led to a minor mishap. She collided with an employee, her body bumping into the other person.

“I’m sorry,” the employee apologized.

“No worries,” Lara responded.

Lara looked up to continue her pursuit of Natsu, only to find that he had already disappeared from sight.

Lara, determined to find Natsu, stepped outside, her gaze scanning the surroundings. “I wonder where he was going,” she mused aloud, her hands on her hips as she tried to piece together Natsu’s sudden departure.

Suddenly, a series of thuds caught her attention. Curiosity piqued, she followed the sound, her footsteps cautious.

She discovered a small, secluded garden, its tranquility shattered by the violent sounds emanating from within. Peeking from behind a bush, she witnessed an astonishing sight. Natsu, his face contorted in anger, was punching a tree with relentless force.

His hands were already reddening, but he continued his assault on the tree.

Lara’s shock was palpable. She had never seen such raw emotion displayed before.

Natsu’s anger reached its peak, and he raised his fist to strike himself. But just as his hand was about to connect with his face, Lara’s hand shot out, stopping him in his tracks.

Natsu looked down at Lara, his eyes filled with surprise as she observed the redness on his hand. Lara’s concern grew as she observed the redness on Natsu’s hand. “What do you think you’re doing? Look at your hand!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with worry.

Natsu pulled his hand back, his anger still simmering. “None of your business,” he retorted, his voice cold and distant.

Undeterred by his dismissive attitude, Lara grabbed his arm, her grip firm. “Doesn’t mean i will leave you like this ,” she insisted, her voice rising slightly. 

Natsu tried to pull his arm away, but Lara’s grip tightened. “Leave me alone, I say!” he shouted, his frustration evident.

Lara refused to let go, her determination matching his. She used her other hand to immobilize his arm, preventing him from breaking free.

Lara’s concern for Natsu grew as she observed the angry redness spreading across his knuckles. “We are going to the studio nurse,” she insisted, her voice firm.

Natsu, however, was in no mood to be rescued. “What the hell do you want from me?” he snapped, his anger evident in his voice.

Before Lara could respond, Natsu forcefully pulled his hand away from her grasp, causing her to lose balance and stumble backward. He hesitated for a moment, his instinct to help her at odds with his anger.

Chapter 21: I am not Cute !!

Lara landed on the ground with a thud, the impact jolting her senses.

Natsu was taken aback by Lara’s unexpected fall. A flicker of concern crossed his face as he watched her struggle to regain her balance.

“Told you to stay away,” he muttered under his breath, his voice laced with irritation.

However, Lara, ever the optimist, giggled as she stood up. “You know,” she began, a mischievous glint in her eye, “you’re kinda cute when you get angry.”

Natsu’s face flushed a little pink. He tried to maintain his tough exterior but couldn’t hide the embarrassment creeping up on him. “I am not cute,” he said.

Lara giggled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “Somebody’s blushing pink,” she teased, pointing at Natsu’s flushed face.

Natsu, caught off guard, denied it vehemently. “I am not,” he insisted, his voice rising slightly.

Lara, undeterred, continued her playful banter. “No hiding from Lara the Great,” she declared, her voice echoing with confidence. “I can seek truth like the Pegasus,” she added, a mischievous glint in her eye.

Natsu retorted, “You!”

Ryu, having finished his work, entered the scene, his presence breaking the tension between Lara and Natsu.

“Hey, I was looking for both of you,” he said, his voice carrying a note of urgency. “Why won’t you pick up your phones?” he asked, his eyebrows raised in question.

Lara, still caught up in her playful banter, replied nonchalantly, “Oh, sorry, my phone was on silent mode.”

Natsu, however, remained silent, his expression unreadable.

Ryu pulled out an envelope and handed it to Natsu. “Here,” he said, his voice filled with a mixture of relief and anticipation.

Natsu took the envelope, his curiosity piqued. “What’s this?” he asked, his voice laced with confusion.

Ryu explained, “It’s your advance. From our manager. He said to be on time from everyday and take care of Lara and be a good manager to her.”

Natsu’s eyes widened in disbelief as he took the envelope, his hands trembling slightly. “He said what?” he repeated, his voice rising in disbelief.

Ryu smiled. “He was kind of impressed by you to be honest.”

Natsu was still in disbelief. “But…”

Lara, sensing the gravity of the situation, tried to lighten the mood. “Hey, quit this ‘but, but’ and smile a little,” she said, her voice filled with cheerfulness.

Lara, taking charge of the situation, commanded, “Now that you’re officially my manager, then I order you to go to the studio nurse right now!”

Ryu’s eyebrows raised in surprise. “Nurse?” he questioned, clearly puzzled.

Natsu, nursing his injured hand, tried to play it cool. “Nothing,” he replied, his voice firm.

Lara, undeterred, insisted, “Look at your hand!” Her tone was both concerned and authoritative.

Natsu glanced down at his hand, now visibly swollen and red. He couldn’t deny the severity of the injury.

“Ughh,” he groaned, finally relenting.

Ryu nodded, understanding the urgency of the situation. “You go to the nurse. I’ll drop Lara to her staying place. It’s already 5 pm,” he said, his tone firm.

Lara’s eyes lit up with excitement. “Where am I staying?” she asked, her voice filled with anticipation.

Ryu smiled. “A little surprise,” he replied, leaving her to ponder the possibilities.

“Ah, I can’t wait,” Lara exclaimed, her excitement growing.

Lara turned to Natsu. “And you, go to the nurse and take care,” she repeated, her tone gentle and firm.

Natsu “fine” he said and walked away.

 Ryu and Lara ,their conversation continuing as they walked towards the car.

Natsu, instead of going to the nurse, headed towards his apartment, his mind racing. He ignored the throbbing pain in his hand, his focus solely on the thick envelope in his hands. A small smile crept onto his face. 

Chapter 22: Annex Ryokan

Ryu and Lara arrived at the Annex Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn. As Lara stepped out of the car, her eyes widened in awe at the beautiful architecture.

“Wooo!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement.

Ryu smiled at her enthusiasm. “Our manager booked this for you,” he explained.

Lara continued to explore the surroundings, her eyes darting from one corner to another. “It’s beautiful! I’ve never seen anything like it in real life,” she said, her voice filled with wonder.

Ritsuki, the owner of the inn, emerged from the building, dressed in a beautiful Japanese kimono. “Welcome, Miss Lara and Mr. Ryu,” she greeted them warmly.

Lara and Ryu returned the greeting, their eyes drawn to Ritsuki’s elegant attire.

Ritsuki ushered them inside, and Lara’s jaw dropped at the sight of the interior. Every corner was a masterpiece of traditional Japanese design. “This place is so beautiful! I love it!” she exclaimed, her voice filled with admiration.

Ritsuki smiled. “It’s good to hear that,” she replied. “Excuse me, I will get your dinner, Miss Lara.”

“Thanks,” Lara replied, “and call me Lara.”

“Fine, Lara,” Ritsuki said smiling, turning to leave.

Ryu checked his watch. “Well, it’s time for me to leave too,” he announced.

Lara nodded, understanding. “If any problem, ask Ritsuki or call me anytime,” he added, his voice filled with concern.

Lara assured him, “Hai.”

Ryu turned to leave.

Lara called Ryu back.

“How’s Natsu? Did he message?” she asked, her voice filled with concern.

Ryu replied, “Well, not now, but I know he will be. He’s very strong. Don’t worry.”

Lara nodded. “Hai,” she replied, trying to sound reassuring.

Ryu left.

Chapter 23: Nen Chan is Here

Natsu returned home, a shopping bag clutched in his hand. A sense of satisfaction washed over him as he unlocked the apartment door.

“I’m home!” he announced, his voice echoing through the empty space.

A small figure emerged from the kitchen, a five-year-old boy with a curious expression and a finger in his mouth.

“Pa Chan!” the boy exclaimed, his face lighting up as he rushed towards Natsu, throwing his arms around Natsu’s leg.

Natsu crouched down, ruffling the boy’s hair affectionately. “Pa Chan brought a gift for Nen,” he said, a gentle smile playing on his lips.

Nen’s eyes widened in excitement. “Ah, yea, gift!” he squealed, jumping up and down with anticipation.

Natsu picked up Nen and carried him into the kitchen. “Go wash your hands, Nen,” he instructed softly.

Nen nodded enthusiastically, a wide grin spreading across his face. He scampered off to the bathroom, his tiny feet padding against the floor.

Natsu placed the shopping bag on the old chabudai table, a simple wooden table that had been in the family for generations.

Nen returned, his hands clean and his face sparkling with excitement. “Pa Chan, Nen washed his hands,” he announced proudly.

Natsu chuckled. “Very good, Nen,” he praised. “Now come here to Pa Chan,” he said, opening his arms for a hug.

Nen eagerly climbed onto Natsu’s lap, his small body snuggling into Natsu’s embrace.

Natsu opened the box, revealing a small, strawberry-topped cake. Nen’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Cake! Nen loves cake!” he exclaimed, throwing his arms around Natsu in a tight hug.

Natsu chuckled, ruffling Nen’s hair. “Pa Chan loves Nen,” he replied, his voice filled with affection. He took a spoon and scooped out a bite of cake, feeding it to Nen.

Nen’s eyes closed in delight as he savored the sweet treat. “Mm… delicious,” he murmured, his mouth full.

With a playful grin, Nen took a spoon and fed Natsu a bite of cake. “Say aa,” he demanded, imitating Natsu.

Natsu opened his mouth obediently, allowing Nen to feed him the cake. “Is it good?” Nen asked, his face full of anticipation.

Natsu nodded, a satisfied smile on his face. “Hai,” he replied.

As they finished their cake, Nen went to wash his little hands while Natsu placed the empty plates in the sink.

Returning from the bathroom, Nen yawned, his cute eyes heavy with sleep. He stumbled towards Natsu and grabbed his legs for support.

Natsu scooped Nen up in his arms, the little boy immediately snuggling into his father’s chest. Natsu began to gently pat Nen’s back, a soothing rhythm that lulled the child to sleep.

Once Nen was fast asleep, Natsu carried him to another room. A blanket was already laid out on the floor, a simple yet comfortable sleeping arrangement. Gently, Natsu placed Nen on the blanket, tucking him in with a soft blanket. He kissed Nen’s forehead before turning off the lights and leaving the room, a sense of peace washing over him.

Natsu sat on the chabudai, his mind focused on managing his newfound income. He carefully removed the money from the envelope, separating it into different stacks for various expenses. A significant portion was set aside for Nen, placed in a small envelope labelled “Nen.” He then took a smaller amount for himself.

Natsu carefully placed the envelopes containing the money underneath the chabudai table, ensuring their safety.

He then retrieved a small ice pack from the shopping bag and headed to the bathroom. Standing in front of the cracked mirror, he took off the glove he wore to hide his injury and applied the ice pack to his injured hand.

As he looked at his reflection, his mind wandered back to the earlier encounter with Lara. He couldn’t deny that her actions had affected him, albeit subtly. Somewhere, he realized he was being a little wrong.

With a sigh, he removed the ice pack.

As Natsu turned to leave, his mind still preoccupied with the events of the day, he caught sight of his reflection in the mirror. Remembering Lara’s teasing comment about his angry face, he couldn’t resist the urge to experiment.

He made a series of exaggerated angry faces, his eyebrows furrowed and his lips pursed in a determined frown.

Just as he was about to give up, he heard a small voice. “Mm,” it said, breaking the silence.

Looking down, Natsu saw Nen standing in the doorway, imitating Natsu’s angry expression with surprising accuracy.

Natsu couldn’t hold back his laughter. “Why aren’t you asleep yet? You have school tomorrow, Nen,” he said, his voice filled with amusement.

Nen, oblivious to his father’s amusement, hugged Natsu’s legs tightly.

“I am scared,” he said, his voice filled with childlike innocence.

Natsu scooped Nen up in his arms, offering comfort and reassurance. “Let’s go, Nen-Chan,” he said, his voice filled with warmth.

As Natsu turned to leave the bathroom, he couldn’t resist one last glance at his reflection in the mirror. He made another exaggerated angry face.

He felt a tug on his shirt. Looking down, he saw Nen, staring up at him with wide, curious eyes.

“Pa-Chan, let’s go,” Nen said, his voice filled with childlike impatience.

Natsu scooped Nen up in his arms and left the bathroom, a warm feeling spreading through him.

Chapter 24: Schedule

Morning arrived, casting its golden hues over the slumbering city. Natsu emerged from his apartment, Nen in tow, the little boy dressed in his school uniform.

Mrs. Milo, their elderly neighbor, was waiting for them outside. “Morning, Natsu, morning Nen dear,” she greeted them warmly.

Natsu returned the greeting, a tired smile gracing his lips. Nen, however, was less enthusiastic. “Morning,” he mumbled, his pout evident.

Mrs. Milo chuckled. “Ready for school?” she asked Nen, her voice gentle.

Nen shook his head vigorously, his lower lip trembling. “I wanna stay with Pa-chan,” he protested, his voice filled with disappointment.

Mrs. Milo’s heart melted at the sight of the adorable child. “Pa-chan needs to go to work now,” she explained patiently. “Be a good boy and come with me,” she coaxed.

Nen’s pout deepened, but he eventually nodded, his tiny hand reaching out for Mrs. Milo’s.

Natsu bent down and kissed Nen’s forehead. “See ya later, Nen-chan,” he said, his voice filled with love.

Nen waved goodbye to his father, his small hand disappearing into Mrs. Milo’s as they walked away.

Natsu’s phone buzzed, interrupting his quiet morning. A text message from Ryu appeared on the screen. It was Lara’s schedule for the day:

*Pick her up from Annex Ryokan at 9 am

* Meeting at 10-12 am

There was also a final instruction to get the car from the studio.

Natsu entered his house, his movements deliberate and efficient. He quickly changed into his suit.

With his appearance ready, he headed to the studio.

Upon reaching the studio, Aya handed him the car keys. “Here,” she said, with a smile.

Natsu took the keys and made his way to the car. He started the engine and drove off, the destination: Lara’s temporary accommodation.

Natsu arrived at the Annex Ryokan, his patience wearing thin as the minutes ticked by. He sent a message to Ryu, informing him of his arrival.

Five minutes passed, then ten. Impatience began to gnaw at him as he waited for Lara to emerge. He paced back and forth, his arms crossed, with annoyance.

Inside the Annex, Lara was engaged in a battle of wills with her wardrobe. A mountain of clothes lay scattered across the bed, and yet, nothing seemed to satisfy her discerning eye. “Ah, I don’t have anything to wear!” she exclaimed in frustration, her voice echoing through the room.

Natsu’s patience finally reached its breaking point. He knocked on the door, his voice firm.

Ritsuki, the owner of the Annex, opened the door, a polite smile gracing her face. “You must be Lara’s manager. Ryu told me about you,” she said, her voice soft.

Natsu nodded, his focus solely on the task at hand. “Where is she its getting late?” he inquired, his tone direct.

Ritsuki hesitated for a moment before replying, “Oh well…” she began, her voice trailing off.

Before she could finish her sentence, Lara’s voice echoed from inside the room. “I don’t have anything to wear!” she exclaimed in frustration, her tone filled with exasperation.

A moment later, the door swung open, revealing a chaotic scene. Lara was surrounded by a mountain of clothes, her search for the perfect outfit having turned into a full-blown disaster. To make matters worse, one of the clothes she had thrown out of her suitcase landed squarely on Natsu’s face.

Lara turned around, startled to find a piece of her clothing draped over Natsu’s face. “Hey, what are you doing with my clothes?” she exclaimed, her voice laced with confusion.

Natsu removed the offending article of clothing from his face, his anger momentarily overshadowed by surprise. “We are getting late,” he stated, his voice firm but controlled.

Lara, oblivious to his growing irritation, continued her search for the perfect outfit. “I can’t find what to wear,” she complained, with a pouted face “It’s my first meeting, I can’t go without a proper outfit, you know.”

Natsu’s patience was wearing thin. With a swift movement, he grabbed a suitable outfit from Lara’s scattered belongings. “Just change,” he ordered, his voice barely a whisper.

Lara, accepted the clothes “Oh well, don’t have any other option, so…” she mumbled, heading towards the washroom.

Natsu stepped outside, his impatience evident. “I will be waiting outside,” he informed Ritsuki before closing the door.

After what felt like an eternity, Lara finally emerged from the Ryokan. She had managed to get dressed, though her hair was still slightly disheveled.

“How am I looking?” she asked, striking a pose, her confidence seemingly restored. “To be honest, your choice is good. I like this outfit,” she added, a genuine smile on her face.

Natsu, still under the influence of his earlier irritation, simply started the car without responding. Lara buckled up and settled into her seat, her excitement about the upcoming meeting gradually building.

It was already 9:35 AM, and they were running behind schedule. Lara, oblivious to the ticking clock, was humming a cheerful tune, her mind lost in a world of her own.

Natsu, on the other hand, was focused on reaching the studio on time. His impatience was growing with each passing minute.

As they drove through the city, Lara’s attention was drawn to the various shops and stores lining the streets. She spotted a jewelry store and her eyes lit up with excitement. “Hey, look! So beautiful jewelry,” she exclaimed, her voice filled with wonder.

Natsu, engrossed in his thoughts, didn’t respond immediately.

Lara, sensing his lack of enthusiasm, raised her voice. “Speak up, manager!” she demanded playfully.

Her attention then shifted to other shops, her curiosity piqued. “Pizza!” she exclaimed, pointing to a nearby pizzeria.

Natsu’s irritation began to surface. “No,” he replied firmly.

Lara, undeterred, continued her exploration. “Clothes!” she said, her voice filled with excitement.

Natsu’s patience was wearing thin. “No,” he repeated, his voice laced with annoyance.

Lara pouted. “Ah, you’re so boring,” she complained, her playful demeanor replaced by a mock pout.

Natsu ignored her comment, his focus solely on reaching the studio on time. “We are already late,” he reminded her, his voice stern. “We should have reach at 9:20, but because of you, we are late.”

Lara, finally realizing the seriousness of the situation, responded with a mischievous smile. “Fine,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “But it’s good to hear you speak more than one line,” she added, a playful glint in her eye.

Natsu let out a frustrated sigh. “Ugh,” he mumbled, his patience wearing thin.

As they pulled up to the studio, Lara unbuckled her seatbelt and swung open the door. “See ya soon,” she said, her voice filled with excitement.

Natsu watched as Lara exited the car and walked towards the studio building. “What a headache,” he muttered to himself, rubbing his temples. He parked the car in the designated parking space and stepped out.