Chapter 34 - 32: The First Office
After a productive discussion with his father the night before, Zaboru went to bed feeling energized. The next day, he eagerly awaited updates from his father regarding manufacturers but decided not to sit idle. There was another critical task he needed to accomplish: finding an office.
"I need to find a place I can call my office," Zaboru thought as he grabbed his bike. "It doesn't need to be big—just functional and within my budget. Starting small is fine."
With that, he set off, pedaling through the busy streets of Tokyo. Hours passed as he checked out buildings with rental signs, asked for prices, and explored neighborhoods. However, the search proved more difficult than expected.
"Even in 1991, finding an affordable office in Tokyo is impossible!" he groaned, resting against a lamppost in Roppongi. "Everything's either too expensive or too cramped."
As he contemplated heading home, a firm hand landed on his shoulder. Startled, Zaboru spun around to see Akechi Hamazou, Ayumi's older brother.
"Oh, Akechi-san!" Zaboru greeted, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"Working," Akechi replied in his usual stoic manner. After a pause, he added, "What about you?"
Zaboru hesitated before explaining. "I'm, uh, looking for a space to rent for my office. So far, I haven't found anything that works."
Akechi raised an eyebrow. "Office? For what?"