Nakayama Hayao nodded slightly, reining in some of his imposing presence.
"Jun, sorry to keep you waiting."
"Not at all, Hayao. Please, sit. We're family—no need for formalities between us." Nakagawa Jun raised a hand in invitation.
The dinner table was laden from end to end, extravagantly abundant.
On the long dining table sat golden, crispy tempura; a crystal-clear platter of premium sashimi; and a bubbling wagyu sukiyaki hotpot, steaming and giving off an irresistible aroma.
Kazuki sat in his high chair, gripping a large fried shrimp in his hand and eating until his mouth was slick with oil, like a little tiger guarding its food.
"Slow down. No one's going to steal it from you. There's more in the pot." Eri helplessly wiped his mouth with a napkin.
Kazuki swallowed his mouthful with difficulty and said indistinctly, "The fried shrimp in the school cafeteria is nowhere near as good as Mom's! Kenta wanted to trade his octopus sausage for mine today, but I wouldn't do it! I'm not stupid!"
Everyone at the table burst into laughter at his words, and the atmosphere was warm and harmonious.
Miki sat in a baby chair on the other side, clutching a plastic spoon and rhythmically tapping the bowl in front of her, giggling along with the adults.
Nakayama Hayao raised the cup of sake before him and took a small sip.
He rarely drank outside, let alone in front of younger family members.
But at home, looking at the joyful family around the table, at his outstanding son and daughter and his lively, adorable grandchildren, he made an exception and poured himself a cup.
On that stern face weathered by the storms of the business world, there was, for once, a truly relaxed ease.
Miyuki and Takako leaned close together, quietly exchanging