With the broadcast of the first episode of Love is a Required Course in Life, its popularity skyrocketed with no signs of stopping.
Its cast of attractive, non-amateur men and women, its brisk pacing, and its dramatic plot developments all became hot topics of conversation for viewers.
After the first episode aired, viewership continued to climb steadily over the next two days. The show remained a top subject, with various related terms dominating the trending charts one after another.
Such massive success naturally attracted the attention of investors. The second episode hadn't even aired yet, but advertisers with a keen sense of opportunity were already flocking in, nearly burying Director Aoyama's office in sponsorship and collaboration proposals.
To celebrate this successful debut and further solidify relationships with all parties, the Nenshi agency and chief director Aoyama Akihiro were in perfect agreement, deciding to hold a small, private celebration dinner at an exclusive members-only club in Tokyo.
In addition to the core production staff and key advertiser representatives, the six cast members also received invitations to attend in formal attire.
At eight o'clock at night, luxury cars crowded the club's entrance.
Since it was a formal celebration dinner, the casual clothes they wore at the dating show villa were out of the question. All six members had changed into carefully selected gowns and suits.
On his stylist's recommendation, Michiya Gōshin chose a flawlessly tailored black suit with a subtle pattern. He wore no tie, and the top button of his shirt was casually undone, striking a balance between proper etiquette and a relaxed, lazy elegance.
He arrived at the venue at just the right time—not too early, not too late.
As soon as he entered the hall, he was greeted by soft lighting, smooth jazz, and the low hum of conversation.
He spotted a few of his castmates right away.
Kumano Nobuyuki, looking sharp in a light blue suit, stood a bit stiffly while talking to someone who looked like an advertiser. Morimoto Kengo, having opted for an all-white suit, leaned alone against the bar in a corner, fiddling with his glass.
MEM-cho wore a fluffy, pale yellow mini-dress, flitting about like a happy little butterfly among several female staff members, her laughter crisp and clear. Her strong interpersonal skills made her very popular with the crew.
As for Asakura Toru, she had chosen a pearl-white slip dress that made her skin look fairer than snow and gave her an ethereal air.
She was standing quietly near the food station, nibbling on an exquisite dessert, her gaze distant, as if she were completely indifferent to this sort of event.
And Kurokawa Akane…
Michiya Gōshin's eyes swept the room before he finally located her in a relatively quiet spot by the window.
The girl wore a wine-red, knee-length satin dress of a simple yet elegant design. She was holding a glass of juice, her head tilted slightly as she listened to Director Aoyama beside her, her expression calm and focused, occasionally nodding in response.
Compared to the other female guests, who were either dazzling or bubbly, she was like a quietly blooming orchid, possessing a tranquil charm all her own.
'She's working hard, too.'
Michiya Gōshin smiled to himself, then casually picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter's tray and chose to approach Asakura Toru, who was closer.
'Asakura-san, you look very beautiful tonight,' he said with a smile.
Asakura Toru seemed to be startled back to reality. Seeing him, she gave a slight nod and a faint smile. 'You look very handsome today too, Michiya-sensei. The desserts here are delicious.'
'Is that so? I'll have to try some later, then.'
Michiya Gōshin went with the flow, making small talk with her about the party's atmosphere and the desserts. The mood was light and pleasant.
But he could sense that Asakura Toru wasn't particularly enthusiastic about these kinds of social obligations; it was more like she was just completing a task.
'Michiya-sensei.'
Just as Michiya Gōshin was about to turn away, Asakura Toru suddenly called out to him.
'What is it?'
'The second outing plan should be coming up soon. Do you have any plans, Michiya-sensei?'
Asakura Toru was still Asakura Toru. She didn't like to beat around the bush and asked him directly.
'Uh... I haven't really thought about it yet.'
'I see,' Asakura Toru said, touching her short, light purple hair, a gentle smile gracing her face. 'For the second date, the guys make the plans, and the girls choose...'
'I'll give it some serious thought.'
'Mm.'
In truth, Michiya Gōshin could already see the anticipation in Asakura Toru's eyes. Though her emotions were usually subdued, her spontaneous nature made her inclinations quite clear.
Does this count as one-third of the Wolf's mission complete?
Michiya Gōshin stroked his chin, then casually strolled over to where Kurokawa Akane and Director Aoyama were standing.
'Director, congratulations! The show is a huge success.'
He raised his glass in a toast.
'Haha, we couldn't have done it without you all!'
Director Aoyama was in an excellent mood today, his face beaming. 'Why don't you two young people chat for a bit? I'll leave you to it.'
After seeing Michiya Gōshin walk over, Kurokawa Akane suppressed the emotions welling up inside her and forced herself to speak in a calm tone.
'Good evening, Michiya-kun.'
'Good evening.'
Michiya Gōshin exchanged a knowing glance with her. Everything was understood without a word; last night's hug had brought them much closer.
After a brief conversation, Michiya Gōshin felt his stomach rumble.
His main goal for the evening was actually quite simple. He had no interest in networking with business people or advertising executives; he was just here to enjoy the gourmet food at a high-end party.
Just as Michiya Gōshin was about to launch his 'attack' on the dazzling buffet spread, a gentle yet unfamiliar male voice came from behind him.
'Michiya-sensei, good evening.'
Turning around, he found himself facing a young man of about thirty, dressed in a silver-grey suit that was clearly expensive and custom-tailored.
The man's hair was impeccably styled, and he wore a perfect smile. He had a refined demeanor, but his eyes held a sharp, shrewd glint.
Michiya Gōshin looked him over again and confirmed that he didn't recognize him.
'Good evening. And you are?'
Michiya Gōshin maintained a polite smile while rapidly trying to deduce the man's identity.
An advertiser? Or a senior executive from the production company?
'Pardon the intrusion. My name is Suo Atsumu.'
The man smiled and elegantly handed over a business card. 'I've long been an admirer of your acting and talent, Michiya-sensei. Seeing you here today, I couldn't resist the opportunity to introduce myself.'
Michiya Gōshin accepted the card and glanced at it.
The pure white card was of a simple yet luxurious design, bearing the words 'Burning Project Co., Ltd., Managing Director.'
The surname Suo?
This surname, combined with the title of a Nenshi managing director...
A thought stirred in Michiya Gōshin's mind, but his expression remained unchanged.
'Ah, Suo-san, it's a pleasure to meet you. You're too kind. I'm merely doing my job.'
________________________________________
Get rewarded for helping with our community goals!
🎯 Reward for all: +1 bonus chapter at 100 Powerstones.
🚀 Tier Reward: Help us reach 20 members for +5 chapters on all stories!
👻 Join the crew by searching Ms. Medusa on (P). You know the spot! 😉