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Chapter 14 – The Visit
Suzune sat in her new office, sunlight gently spilling through the large glass windows. Her desk was neatly arranged, papers stacked in perfect order, and a faint smile lingered on her lips. For the first time in years, she could finally breathe easily. The Horikita name was no longer a whisper of failure—it stood tall once more.
As she typed a few emails, she thought to herself, I'll do even better from now on. Her fingers moved confidently across the keyboard, the determination in her eyes shining brighter than ever.
Meanwhile, across the city, Ayanokoji Kiyotaka sat quietly in his grand office, his expression unreadable as always. In his hand, he held a photograph of Suzune Horikita — the woman whose courage had turned a dying company into a rising empire. His sharp eyes softened slightly as he stared at the picture.
A soft knock came from the door.
"Enter," Ayanokoji said.
Tsukishiro walked in, holding a file and a polite smile. "Sir, I've received confirmation. The Horikita family has officially recovered from bankruptcy. Their company's stock has risen dramatically—they're billionaires now."
Ayanokoji nodded slowly. "Good."
Tsukishiro continued, "I've also prepared a bouquet and arranged the car for your visit. You planned to congratulate them personally, right?"
Ayanokoji looked up, slightly surprised. "You want me to go?"
Tsukishiro smiled knowingly. "Sir, I know the real reason you signed the deal. Miss Suzune Horikita resembles your first love, doesn't she? I've met her too. The resemblance is uncanny."
A rare pause followed before Ayanokoji finally said, "You're right. I'll go alone."
Tsukishiro bowed. "As you wish."
Ayanokoji rose from his chair, buttoned his black suit jacket, and took the bouquet Tsukishiro handed him. Walking through the marble halls, he exited the building and approached his Rolls-Royce La Rose Noire Droptail, its crimson-black finish gleaming under the sunlight.
He sat behind the wheel and started the engine. The low, smooth rumble filled the quiet air as he drove toward the Horikita Corporation headquarters.
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At the Horikita building, employees glanced curiously as the luxurious car stopped right in front of the entrance. The driver's door opened, and Ayanokoji stepped out — tall, calm, and composed, carrying a bouquet of deep red roses. His presence alone drew every gaze.
He entered the main lobby and approached the front desk. The receptionist, busy typing, didn't even look up.
"Good afternoon," Ayanokoji said in a calm tone. "I'd like to meet Miss Suzune Horikita."
Without glancing up, the receptionist replied, slightly irritated, "Not everyone can meet Miss Horikita. She's very busy—"
"Then look up," Ayanokoji interrupted softly.
Annoyed, she finally lifted her eyes—only to freeze. Her mouth opened slightly, words lost as she stared at the man in front of her. The Ayanokoji Kiyotaka — the man whose name alone could move markets.
"I–I'm so sorry, sir! I didn't recognize you!" she stammered.
"It's fine," Ayanokoji said calmly. "Next time, check before answering."
"Y-Yes, sir! Right away, sir!" she said, fumbling for the phone.
Before she could finish dialing, Ayanokoji added, "No need to escort me. Just inform them I'm on my way up."
"Yes, sir!"
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On the top floor, Manabu Horikita's phone rang. He picked it up, and his usually composed expression shifted in surprise.
"Mr. Ayanokoji is coming up?" he repeated, glancing at Suzune.
Suzune's eyes widened slightly. "He's here? Personally?"
Manabu hung up and stood. "Yes. Let's greet him properly."
They walked to the elevator, standing side by side, waiting. Suzune's heart beat a little faster. Why would he come himself? she thought. Is it about the deal… or something else?
The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime. Ayanokoji stepped out, composed as ever, his eyes immediately finding Suzune's. For a brief moment, time seemed to slow—the air between them thick with unspoken thoughts.
"Hello there," Ayanokoji said in his calm, deep voice. "It's nice to meet you both."
Manabu nodded respectfully. "It's an honor to meet you, Mr. Ayanokoji. I'm Manabu Horikita, the company's CEO—and Suzune's older brother."
Suzune gave a small bow, her voice polite but steady. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person, sir."
Ayanokoji handed her the bouquet. "Congratulations on bringing your family's company back from bankruptcy."
Suzune accepted the flowers with a gentle smile. "It was thanks to you, sir. Your trust means a lot to us."
Ayanokoji's expression remained calm. "It was just a deal. Nothing more."
Manabu smiled faintly. "Still, please—this way, sir. We'd be honored to talk further in my office."
Ayanokoji nodded once. "Lead the way."
As they walked down the elegant hallway, Suzune glanced quietly at Ayanokoji, wondering what thoughts hid behind those emotionless eyes.
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