Stealing Spree

Chapter 2443 Giving in

Chapter 2443 Giving in

Auntie's voice was as sharp as a knife, cutting through the air like a well-placed rebuttal in a tense debate.

I exchanged a quick glance with Otoha, who nodded almost imperceptibly, urging me to comply. Uncle and Hidekazu also didn't say anything much.

I guess they already knew that this was Auntie's way to finally settle our differences. A one-on-one talk.

"Alright, Auntie." I nodded and followed her out of the dining hall.

The walk to her study was tense, with each step echoing through the hallway like a warning bell.

Unfortunately for her, even though she looked like she was trying to act intimidating with this, I wasn't nervous at all.

I'm already expecting her to try and discourage me from seeing Otoha again, or at least attempt to make me feel guilty for my lifestyle.

Backing down had yet to be printed in her dictionary.

But as always, the words produced by my glib tongue will be my weapon. I'm ready to parry every verbal blow she throws my way. Let’s see who’ll have the last laugh.

Wait. That sounded cringe. Scratch that. I’ve already made her back down last night, there’s no way I couldn’t do it again.

In any case, since I still wanted to convince her without being overly rude, I just had to act the same as always. Shameless.

Upon entering her study, Auntie released a sigh, "Do you understand why I'm against you for my daughter?"

Of course, because you want to build your own connection, no? I thought inwardly.

But the words that came from my mouth were different, "Yes. Because I don't only have Otoha."

Auntie clicked her tongue, visibly displeased, "At least, you're aware. I have no idea how you fooled even father-in-law to approve of you... but I'm warning you... Even if I remain to be the one against it, I won't accept you for my daughter."

"How did it go?" Concern was etched on Otoha's features as she approached me. Hitomi, on the other hand, silently looked on but she's probably as concerned as Otoha.

"Well, she's not thrilled, but she's agreed to give us a chance," I replied with a wry smile. That's the best outcome at the moment.

"I'll help in convincing her, Ruki. You focus on what you need to do."

"Mhm, I'll leave it to you then. But don't push yourself if it's difficult, alright?"

"She's still my mother... I don't believe she'll keep being this difficult."

Otoha hugged me, her resolve clearly delivered from her voice. After a while, I pulled Hitomi for a group hug.

My departure was imminent. We’re going to savor every second of it.

—

After this, we returned to Otoha’s room and then I met with their fathers once again.

I thought it would be a continuation of last night but Uncle was more curious about my connection to the eccentric old man.

I don't know. From the way he worded his questions, it felt like he was avoiding meeting his own son. Most likely preparing him to take over soon. Unlike Otoha who he dotes on the most, he’s really harsh to the other members of his family.

Or at least, that’s what I heard from Hidekazu.

I mean, that old man is already gearing up for retirement, after all. He had already been hospitalized once. He'll probably not wait until he collapses again before sorting out his will and the inheritance.

For sure, he'll divide it among his children and leave a bit to his grandchildren.

And since Otoha also decided to step up and get a position -- even if it's only managerial in a small subsidiary, she'll definitely be protected by him. As for whether she’s going to get more, I guess it will eventually depend on her father or if she shows excellence in her work.

An hour later, Hitomi drove me home. As much as I wanted to stay with them a little longer, my weekend was packed.

First on my schedule, visiting Mina and Yayoi-san. I will be eating lunch with them. And after that, I’ll be picking up Yuika-senpai. Today is that Special Swimming Class for her.