One night of drinking, a funeral at work the next day.
Even under the intense magnesium lights of the LEON magazine photo studio, the feeling of a daze still faintly tormented Michiya Gōshin's nerves.
He forced himself to stay sharp, constantly changing poses and expressions at the photographer's command, displaying a variety of charms, from lazy and unrestrained to sharp and profound.
A professional styling team surrounded him, touching up his makeup, fixing his hair, and adjusting the details of his outfit. Everything was proceeding in an orderly fashion.
As his personal assistant, Kato Megumi fully leveraged her initiative. As long as she wasn't called upon, she was like a silent shadow, always staying just out of the camera's frame.
The girl held a tablet, confirming the shoot's progress on one hand while jotting down notes about the process on the other. At the same time, she had to handle various messages on her phone—some were business discussions from his manager, Nakahara Kazuya, while others were adjustments to Michiya Gōshin's schedule.
Although she had only just started as his assistant, Kato Megumi's presence gave Michiya Gōshin a great sense of security, allowing him to handle his various jobs with peace of mind.
Such is the importance of a personal assistant.
On the set.
"Good! Excellent! Michiya-sensei, that look is perfect! Hold it!"
The photographer excitedly pressed the shutter.
Michiya Gōshin maintained his state, slowly beginning to adjust his body's movements.
After the shoot, there was still an interview with the magazine. While these tasks were trivial, the pay and exposure were good. Since he had become an entertainer, he had to accept these things.
By the time all the work was finished, Michiya Gōshin was on the verge of collapse.
On the way back to the van, Kato Megumi handed him a bottle of peach-flavored sparkling water, her tone gentle.
"Michiya-san, tomorrow is the full cast script reading for Alice in Borderland. In the afternoon, there's the costume fitting and photo shoot. Both are at TBS Headquarters. Please be sure to get a full rest tonight."
Michiya Gōshin took the water and gulped down a mouthful, offering a heartfelt thank you.
"You worked hard today, Kato-san."
Without her efficient coordination, his condition today would have likely been even worse.
"It's my job. Please don't drink anymore today."
Kato Megumi nodded faintly and began to report on the next task.
"Additionally, regarding your request to find a new apartment, I have made a preliminary selection of three high-end apartments that meet your requirements. I will send you the details shortly."
"One of them is a luxury apartment in Bunkyo ward. Its location, security, privacy, and floor plan view are all exceptional. I recommend you prioritize it."
"Bunkyo ward?"
Michiya Gōshin raised an eyebrow slightly. Bunkyo ward was known for its numerous cultural and educational institutions and its quiet environment. Many scholars and writers lived there, which rather suited his other identity as an author.
"Yes, you can review the specific details when you get back."
Kato Megumi nodded. Gathering information on these properties wasn't difficult, but she actually wanted to visit them in person. You couldn't confirm their quality just by looking at videos and pictures.
--------------------
The next day, at the script reading for Alice in Borderland.
The main creative team and principal actors sat around a huge conference table.
Michiya Gōshin and Sakurajima Mai naturally sat in the core positions near Director Aoyama Akihiro. Yamazaki Kento was also sitting not far away. When he saw Michiya Gōshin come in, he secretly winked and mouthed, "Are you okay?" Michiya Gōshin could only offer a helpless smile in return.
The script reading was a serious and focused process. Every actor was immersed in their character, trying to first establish the character's vitality through their voice and lines.
Michiya Gōshin's voice was steady and full of variation, precisely capturing the transformation of [Arisu Ryohei] from an ordinary slacker youth to someone forced to grow and fight for survival.
Director Aoyama nodded from time to time, a satisfied look on his face.
About two hours later, the first script reading concluded. After a short break, they moved on to the costume fitting and photo shoot.
Michiya Gōshin was, without a doubt, the first. The promotional photo shoot was very important because the photos would be used for the drama's promotion and pre-launch hype. As the lead actor, his photo would be front and center in all the marketing materials.
Aoyama Akihiro's styling team led him to a makeup mirror. Two young female makeup artists looked at his golden hair, which was particularly dazzling under the lights, their faces filled with excitement.
"Michiya-san, based on the character's design and the director's request, we'll need to officially dye your hair back to black today."
One of the makeup artists wore a mask, but her eyes crinkled into crescents as she smiled, her voice full of anticipation.
"Mm, I know. Let's begin."
Michiya Gōshin nodded. He was already mentally prepared. This head of golden hair that had been with him for several months was finally going back to its original color.
After all, according to the script, [Arisu Ryohei] was an ordinary, slacker Japanese youth. A head of brilliant blond hair was indeed too conspicuous and out of place.
The two makeup artists then skillfully got to work.
They carefully draped a protective cloth over him and mixed the dye. Their movements were gentle yet highly efficient. Though they wore masks, you could still sense their excitement, a feeling of "we finally get to personally transform this top-tier, god-like face."
"Michiya-san's hair quality is so good..."
"The blond is handsome, but I'm really looking forward to seeing the black hair!"
"I feel like it will have a completely different charm!"
They chatted in low voices as they worked, their tones filled with professional admiration and anticipation.
Michiya Gōshin closed his eyes, feeling the cool sensation of the dye being applied to his scalp and the gentle massage of the makeup artists' fingertips. The process was quite long, but he waited patiently.
Several hours later, when the final step was complete, the stylists rinsed the excess dye from his hair.
After the roar of the hairdryer stopped, Michiya Gōshin slowly opened his eyes.
In the mirror, a familiar yet strange version of himself appeared.
His signature, brilliant blond hair was gone, replaced by a head of black hair that was dark, soft, and gleamed with a healthy luster.
The black strands softened the somewhat flashy, eye-catching visual impact created by his defined features and golden hair. Instead, it further highlighted his already exceptionally handsome eyebrows, eyes, and facial contours.
His sharp star aura was skillfully restrained, transformed into a deeper charm that also possessed a more Eastern aesthetic.
It was like he had removed a layer of shining armor, revealing a more essential and moving authenticity underneath.
Even Kato Megumi, who had remained calm at his side, paused for an imperceptible moment when she saw the person in the mirror.
"Wow! He looks so good!"
"It's like [Arisu Ryohei] walked straight out of the manga!"
The two makeup artists couldn't help but exclaim in low voices, thoroughly satisfied with their "work."
Michiya Gōshin stared at himself in the mirror, also slightly dazed.
With black hair, he really did look like a different person.
But on second thought, he felt it didn't matter either way, as long as it fit the character.
--------------------
After the promotional photo shoot was over, Michiya Gōshin called out to Sakurajima Mai, who was about to leave.
"Sakurajima-san, are you free tonight? I'd like to treat you to dinner to thank you."
Michiya Gōshin took the initiative to invite her. Since their first meeting, the two had developed many connections. They were not just professional colleagues in the entertainment industry but also shared a deep bond of friendship.
Sakurajima Mai seemed a little surprised, but she soon broke into her signature, slightly playful smile.
"Oh? You finally remembered to thank your senpai? Alright, seeing as you're so sincere, I'll go with you."
The girl paused. "But you'd better pick a good place. It's not easy for me to go out these days."
She was referring to the paparazzi troubles that came with her extremely high public recognition. Although Sakurajima Mai had been scandal-free since her debut, it didn't mean she wouldn't be targeted by Bunshun.
"Of course. I've already had Kato Megumi book a place. The privacy is guaranteed."
Michiya Gōshin smiled.
"Is that so? It seems, Michiya-kun, that you've found a capable assistant. I'm quite envious."
Sakurajima Mai glanced at the short-haired girl behind Michiya Gōshin. Her presence was faint, like the young man's shadow.
"Kato-san is indeed amazing. Although we've only just started working together, I feel like I can't do without her already."
Michiya Gōshin smiled, and just then, Kato Megumi very appropriately handed him a black face mask.
They would be taking a car soon, and as an entertainer, wearing a mask was a matter of course.
"...That's good, then."
Sakurajima Mai gave Kato Megumi a deep look but ultimately didn't say anything more.
The dinner location was a high-class ryotei that required a member's referral to enter. The private room was a Japanese-style room in the innermost part of the restaurant, very quiet and soundproof.
Dish after dish was served like a flowing banquet, each one exquisite.
The two chatted about the film crew and interesting gossip from the industry, seeming to return to their previous relaxed state of communication. The atmosphere was very harmonious.
Kato Megumi sat beside Michiya Gōshin. She had initially said she didn't want to disturb their meal, but at the young man's strong insistence, she finally joined the dinner. However, her work tablet remained constantly at her right hand.
After a while, Kato Megumi's tablet vibrated. She glanced at it quickly, then looked at Michiya Gōshin and reported in a calm voice:
"Michiya-san, regarding the luxury apartment in Bunkyo ward I reported to you about earlier, I just received feedback from the building manager. The current owner is moving abroad next week, so there is room for further negotiation on the price."
"Here are the detailed floor plans and actual photos of the property. The owner also just sent over a video. Would you like to take a look now?"
She handed the tablet over.
Michiya Gōshin immediately took the tablet, and Sakurajima Mai, having heard the conversation, leaned over curiously to look.
On the screen were several crystal-clear photos. The interior of this luxury apartment was decorated in a modern, simple-yet-luxurious style. The view was excellent; through the huge floor-to-ceiling windows, one could see the sparkling scenery of Tokyo and the faint outline of distant mountains.
The apartment was about two hundred square meters, with clearly defined functional areas. It was also a relatively new building, not an old apartment.
"Wow, this place is really nice."
Sakurajima Mai said admiringly, "The environment in Bunkyo ward is great, very quiet. It's suitable for a great writer like you who needs to write."
"Is that so."
Michiya Gōshin glanced at Kato Megumi beside him. He was very satisfied with this luxury apartment. The rent was about 400,000 yen a month.
Given his current income, he could completely afford it.
Of course, buying a house in Tokyo wasn't so easy. It would probably cost several hundred million yen.
Sakurajima Mai, next to him, immediately caught the key point, her eyes lighting up.
"Michiya-kun, are you planning to move?"
"Yes, if possible, I plan to get it done in the next couple of days."
"When are you moving? Need help?"
She seemed to have completely forgotten her identity as a female star, her expression eager.
After all, Sakurajima Mai didn't really have many friends her own age. And she held a special concern for Michiya Gōshin.
Seeing her rarely display such childlike enthusiasm, Michiya Gōshin couldn't help but laugh.
"I appreciate your kind offer, Sakurajima-san, but how could I trouble you with a chore like moving..."
"What's the trouble! Many hands make light work."
Sakurajima Mai interrupted him, saying with a grin, "Or is there something hidden in your room that you can't let me see?"
"...If you really want to come, then come. Just don't start rumors."
Michiya Gōshin sighed.
"Hmph, then make your decision quickly. I'll come over once it's settled."
Sakurajima Mai's eyes curved into crescents, and she looked very pleased with herself.
"When the time comes, I hope you won't blame me for ordering you around, Sakurajima-san."
"Don't worry, Michiya-kun," Sakurajima Mai said, taking a sip of Calpis. She smiled and added, "After you're done ordering me around, you'll just have to treat me to dinner again, hahaha."
"That goes without saying."
--------------------
The private dinner with Sakurajima Mai ended in a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere.
After Michiya Gōshin and Kato Megumi safely saw the highly popular actress off to her car, they walked to their own van.
The cool night breeze dispersed the lingering aroma of food from the ryotei and brought him a bit of clarity.
Just as Kato Megumi was opening the car door for him, the phone in Michiya Gōshin's pocket suddenly began to vibrate incessantly, its screen glowing brightly in the darkness.
He took it out and saw it was the group chat named "The Dating Show Six-Person Group" that was being spammed with messages. After the show ended, their contact didn't fade. Instead, because they had lived together for two weeks, they had all become good friends.
This could be considered a blessing from Michiya Gōshin, the "Wolf." After all, he was the only one who received a confession in the end; otherwise, their relationships certainly wouldn't be so harmonious.
Kato Megumi stood quietly to the side, waiting, her gaze gentle.
She was always like this. Apart from reporting on work, she almost never took the initiative to speak.
Michiya Gōshin swiped the screen open, and a long string of messages immediately popped up.
The latest was an energetic voice message from MEM. He tapped it, and the girl's crisp, cheerful voice instantly floated out.
"Michiya-kun! Are you free tomorrow? We found a suuuuper fun escape room!"
"The plot is supposed to be mind-bending and the props are super realistic! Let's go challenge it together! @Michiya Gōshin."
"Waiting for you!"
This was followed by texts from Kumano Nobuyuki and Morimoto Kengo. It seemed these few had indeed formed a good private relationship.
Michiya Gōshin: [Sorry everyone, I probably can't make it tomorrow. I have to look at an apartment and handle some paperwork, and then I have to move. It's going to be a bit busy.]
Less than three seconds after the message was sent, the group chat exploded.
MEM-cho: [Eh, eh, eh?! Michiya-kun is moving?! How come you're only telling us about something so big now!]
Kumano Nobuyuki: [Moving?! Need help carrying luggage? I don't have much, but I've got plenty of muscle. On standby!]
Morimoto Kengo: [Michiya, need help? I'm free these days.]
Asakura Toru: [Moving must be tough. If you need it... I can help organize books or small items.]
Even Kurokawa Akane finally sent a voice message in the group offering to help, followed by a private message.
"Michiya-kun, if you're moving, let me help."
"..."
Looking at the requests to help that everyone had sent almost without thinking, scrambling over one another, Michiya Gōshin was a bit stunned.
He had only mentioned it casually and never thought of troubling everyone.
After all, moving was trivial, exhausting, and time-consuming. His original plan was to just pay for it and leave everything to a moving company.
At most, he would have Kato Megumi supervise from the side.
So he quickly typed a reply.
Michiya Gōshin: [I'm really touched by everyone's offer! But you really don't have to trouble yourselves! I've already contacted a moving company, their process is very professional, it'll be fine! You all should go have fun at the escape room this weekend!]
MEM-cho: [No, no! How can a moving company be as thoughtful as us! Besides, moving is so much fun! Way more interesting than an escape room.]
Kumano Nobuyuki: [Michiya, don't be so polite! We're all friends, don't treat us like strangers.]
Morimoto Kengo: [Yeah, we haven't really gotten together since the show ended. Let's help you move, and then we can treat ourselves to a meal on your dime.]
The other two girls were also very enthusiastic. They gave him no chance to refuse.
After a moment, Michiya Gōshin looked up at Kato Megumi, who had been waiting quietly beside him, a complex smile on his face—a mixture of helplessness, some emotion, and a bit of uncertainty.
"Kato-san, it looks like my moving plans are about to get a lot more lively."
After all, there was still Sakurajima Mai.
Kato Megumi's expression remained as calm as ever. She just gave a slight nod.
"I understand. I will be there as well."
"Mm."
Michiya Gōshin replied in the group chat.
[I really can't win against you guys. In that case, I'll really have to trouble you all! Once the specific time is set, I'll let everyone know in the group right away. Thanks in advance, everyone!]
MEM-cho: [Roger! Moving party!!!]
Kumano Nobuyuki: [Roger! Ready anytime!]
Morimoto Kengo: [Mm. Noted.]
Asakura Toru: [Okay.]
Kurokawa Akane: [Mhm.]
Putting his phone down, Michiya Gōshin got into the car. As he watched the glittering nightscape of Tokyo flow past the window, his mind couldn't help but imagine the scene to come.
It would probably be very noisy.
However, the corners of the young man's mouth uncontrollably curved upward.
Was it a headache? A little, yes.
But more than that, it was a solid, warm feeling of happiness, of being surrounded by friends.
________________________________________
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