Chapter Text
The following weeks were difficult for Kumiko and Tsukasa to go to prospective business partners during weekdays as their class schedules do not match. They often meet their prospects during weekends or whenever their schedules align. One weekend, the pair decided to meet Akira Ichinomiya - Eisuke's adoptive father.
"It's a pleasure to finally meet Kotaro's beloved daughter as well as Tenma's handsome son." Akira greeted.
"The pleasure is all on us, Akira. Thank you for meeting us on such a short notice." Tsukasa extended his hand in which Akira shook, Kumiko followed.
"I'm supposed you're aware about the agenda for this sudden meeting." Kumiko cut to the chase.
Akira's then smiling expression turned neutral and nodded. "Yes, I'm well-aware of Yamada zaibatsu's situation right now. It's not unusual if there's sudden drop in stock, however in the Yamada zaibatsu's case I find it weird, if not unnatural."
The pair nodded as Akira continued explaining why he finds the drop unnatural, Tsukasa wrote down notes and both asked follow up questions for a better understanding. When Akira finished his explanation, he turned to Kumiko asked her a question.
"I'm sure you did not meet me today just to explain to you my opinion about this, am I correct Kumiko? Let me hear your proposal."
Kumiko nodded, "Yes. Actually, I want to propose a partnership with you."
Akira did not answer and signaled Kumiko to continue explaining her proposal. Kumiko continued with her explanation and how both groups would be able to benefit from it.
"I know that Ichinomiya and Yamada partnerships are not beneficial to one another, but for this one, it will be after a few years. I've already considered possible repercussions from the Yamada and Ichinomiya board. That is why this partnership will not be directly under the Yamada zaibatsu. Instead, it will be under my name and this partnership will only involve, you and me, Akira. But the benefits will directly affect the groups itself."
"I see, very interesting indeed. Now I know why Kotaro speaks highly of you when it comes to handling business matters."
"I really don't have any problem with the conditions. But may I know why you are pursuing this route?" Akira inquired the pair.
"I was actually reviewing the trend for Yamada zaibatsu's stocks the other week and the trend for the drop is suspicious." Tsukasa interjected.
Akira raised his brow and encouraged Tsukasa to continue. "Yamada zaibatsu experienced sudden drops similar to this in the past whenever there are external factors involved. I'd like to avoid making false accusations but my assessment would be there's an internal struggle within the group. More like someone is persuading people to sell their stocks."
"Impressive speculation. Indeed, if we will look at the previous records this might be caused by an internal struggle in which I've already warned your fathers about, I just hope that it won't be too late when they resolve the matter at hand. Going back to your proposal Kumiko, have you prepared the necessary documents for your partnership with me?" Akira inquired.
Kumiko nodded and signaled Tsukasa to hand over to Akira the contracts. Akira skimmed through the documents nodding a few times, he pulled out his fountain pen and signed the contract. Kumiko signed as well, once they were finished signing, Kumiko gave Akira his copy of the contract. After the formalities, the trio enjoyed afternoon tea. Akira turned to Kumiko and asked.
"How is Eisuke by the way? I heard that you're classmates with him Kumiko."
"Arrogant." Kumiko paused, "But he has a talent for business. Ichinomiya zaibatsu has a bright future."
Akira burst into laughter after hearing Kumiko's response.
Meanwhile in Yamada Group's HQ
"Have you found any evidence yet, Ten?"
The guy called Ten handed over an envelope containing reports regarding the current situation of the Yamada zaibatsu.
"As what you have expected, Ko. Some directors are selling off their company stocks and shares which would spell trouble for the whole company itself, if we're not going to take action."
The guy called Ko nodded while reviewing reports, Ko's phone beep showing a text message from Akira.
Text:
I have met with Kumiko and Tsukasa earlier. They remind me of the two of you and Kumiko has an interesting proposition to me. I'll tell you when I come back to Japan. Until then.
"Kumiko has started making a move. Sometimes, she frightens me with her sudden business proposals. Now, she has approached Akira." Kotaro sighed.
"I'm pretty sure she took after that from Yuriko and from your grandparents who taught her the ins and outs of the Yamada group." Tenma replied.
"I can't let my daughter beat me. We'll put a stop to those directors and restore our company stocks."
Tenma nodded as if he understood what Kotaro had in mind.