"Father, I'm ready". On the other end, Hayao Nakayama's steady breath could be heard
...
But only the faint hiss from the static came.
Then, "Hmm?" resounded with authority.
"The gift I mentioned on our last meeting. I've prepared it, I'd like to give a presentation. With as much team and deputies leaders from the Development Department present, also the heads of Marketing, Legal, and the International Business Department."
"Good. Time?"
"How about Monday?"
"Mmm, report to the headquarters by 9 a.m." a crisp and decisive voice sounded.
"Okay, father. See you there."
"Mmm."
~Toot Tooot~
Takuya settled the phone receiver back into its place then leaned back in his chair.
~Sigh~ he relaxed his shoulders.
***
Sunlight shone through the slightly opened window, marking the beginning of a new day.
Meanwhile, Takuya putted on the navy blue suit fitted for his above average figure, and clearly ironed. The collar of his white inner shirt standing crisp and there was his red striped tie.
Looking pretty sharp.
Having confirmed all the materials needed. He picked up his briefcase and cardboard box, then head straight towards the SEGA building.
Shinagawa Ward, SEGA headquarters. Takuya entered the lobby, then the front desk confirmed his identity and related appointments with professional service, but couldn't entirely hide their curiosity.
...
"Takuya-san, the president is waiting for you"
...
The floor numbers ticked on beat on the otherwise silent elevator.
~Ting~
The door opened, revealing Hayao Nakayama inside. He was in an undoubtedly tailored suit, with stern expression and eyes as sharp as a hawk.
"Follow me," he said concisely, as turning and walking away.
Takuya complied, his leather shoes making faint echoes on the polished floor.
Throughout the hallway, employees occasionally passed by; seeing their president escorting an unfamiliar young man, their steps slowed unconsciously, and their gazes repeatedly pointed towards the duo.
Each of them greeted, "Good morning, President." but their faces: some with surprise, others with speculation and even a few exchanging hushed words afterward.
"Is that the President's so....."
"So young..."
"Which department i....."
Faint whispers rippled as they quietly faded before an invisible barrier.
I hope they'll be as curious with their works too Takuya thought, treating the silent stares and hushed discussions merely as wind brushing past him as he remained unshaken.
The duo stopped in front of a frosted glass door labeled "Third Development Department."
Hayao Nakayama pushed opened the door, without any prior knocking.
Inside, a typical Japanese open-plan office: neat rows of cream colored cubicles, flickering computer screens, and the mix of murmurs and keyboard clicks.
The motion at the door was like a stone dropped into a pond, people gradually looked from nearest to furthest. Their gaze carrying initial displeasure of being disturbed ending with surprise upon seeing the President.
Hayao Nakayama's voice though not loud, penetrated the previous office noise, overwhelming it, leading to the everyone stopping their actions.
"This is Takuya Nakayama."
"From today, he will serve as the Deputy Team Leader of the Third Development Department." He announced, like an established fact.
Eh, isn't that throwing me under the freaking spacecraft carrier...
Hmm, this is a good chance too. I'll see, who is ready to adapt and who's not.
The atmosphere dropped, then solidified. Gazes focused on Takuya in unison,
more direct and sharper than those in the hallway, scrutiny, astonishment, and a slight hint of mockery. Pen slipped, then clattered to the floor. Someone in a corner lowered their head, exchanging a look of similar thoughts with someone nearby.
The President's son. Nepotism. Parachuted in.
These silent labels rained down in thoughts.
Hayao Nakayama simply turned side ways with no other words. Then gave a barely noticeable nod towards Takuya.
Then, Takuya stepped, reaching the brightest spot by the door, facing everyone.
He bowed slightly with a neutral smile on his face.
"Hi everyone, I'm Takuya Nakayama. I understand you must be surprised with my sudden appearance." He met each gaze in the room.
"I'm here neither to inherit my position nor to take it easy." some expressionless, some curious, and others clearly not convinced.
"I'm here because of a common goal, my burning passion to create games that will leave its mark in history. So, please take care of me seniors and colleagues."