"Yoshiki-sensei, this is the signature you wanted. Please accept it."
A little later, Yoko Okino suddenly handed the autograph she had received to Hayashi Yoshiki.
Seeing his surprised expression, Yoko chuckled and said, "I'm not really a fan of Mr. Günter, and since you're clearly more interested, I thought it would mean more to you."
"I see. Thank you, Yoko-san."
Hayashi finally accepted the gift.
Since it was almost dinner time after the performance, and as a gesture of appreciation, Hayashi Yoshiki invited Yoko Okino to dinner.
The restaurant was an Italian place recommended by Yoko herself.
The two sat at a cozy table in the corner, and Yoko seemed to be in particularly high spirits.
"Actually, I've been wanting to eat here for ages. I'm glad I finally had the chance today."
"Must be tough being a celebrity."
"It is. My manager and assistant are always watching over me. I know they're doing their job, but sometimes it feels like I can't breathe."
"So it's alright for you to be out like this tonight?"
"It's fine. I informed them in advance and asked for a little time to unwind."
While they were talking, the waiter arrived with the drinks. After taking a sip, Yoko visibly relaxed.
"Ah, this is sweet and delicious."
"Not bad," Hayashi agreed, trying his drink — some kind of iced fruit tea.
"…I don't usually get to eat sweets, so this is a bit of a treat."
Yoko looked a little shy saying this, though she wasn't exactly complaining. Then, in a playful whisper, she added, "By the way, Yoshiki-sensei, I plan to order some ice cream later. Please keep that a secret, okay?"
"If Yoko-san only has one portion."
"One is enough," she said with a laugh.
Soon, the dishes they had ordered were brought to the table. Despite not ordering much, the small table was nearly full. Hayashi glanced around.
"What's wrong, Yoshiki-sensei?"
"Nothing. I just realized… Italian restaurants are actually perfect for dates."
"Huh?"
"Have you noticed? The tables are all very small."
Hayashi leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on the table, looking at Yoko with a gentle smile.
"Because the tables are small, when you sit across from each other, you're forced to be very close."
"…"
Yoko held her breath for a moment.
Facing Yoshiki's delicate features and calm smile, she instinctively slowed her movements.
"But in contrast," Hayashi continued, "authentic Chinese restaurants aren't really ideal for dating."
"Why's that?"
"The tables there are often big and round. If a guy has to stretch across a spinning glass tray just to ask a girl what she wants to eat, it kind of ruins the mood."
Yoko pictured the scene and couldn't help but laugh.
"But not all Chinese restaurants have big round tables," she countered. "Only the really upscale ones, I think."
"True. But when it comes to Chinese food, I have a little trick for knowing whether the restaurant is authentic."
"What is it?"
"Just check the name. If it's something like 'Beijiaolou' or 'Qixinglou,' maybe not. But if it's called something like 'Tiantian Hongyun Restaurant,' then it's more likely legit."
"So that's the trick, huh?"
Yoko looked like she'd just learned a life lesson.
Despite being a famous idol, she was surprisingly easy to talk to.
As they ate, Hayashi observed her carefully — she was relaxed, cheerful, and her expressions while enjoying the food were genuinely charming.
If none of this was an act, she really was a wonderful person.
The restaurant gradually grew busier.
The food, Hayashi noted, was indeed quite good — the sort of place one would happily revisit from time to time.
Even after saying she was full, Yoko eventually ordered that ice cream — to no one's surprise.
"It's so embarrassing being stared at while eating ice cream..."
She blushed slightly, then quickly changed the topic.
"By the way, Yoshiki-sensei, how old are you?"
"I'm 22, I think."
"The same as me. That's a bit unexpected."
"Hm?"
"I don't know, I just assumed you were a bit older..." Yoko hesitated. "You look young and handsome, but maybe it's your personality? You just seem very mature."
"I'd be heartbroken if someone said I looked old."
"That's not it! You're really very handsome. Honestly, no male idol or actor I've worked with can compare to you."
Luckily, there were no paparazzi around — otherwise, Yoko's bold praise would've made tomorrow's headlines.
Still, people at nearby tables were beginning to notice them. Some likely recognized Yoko but weren't entirely sure...
"Looks like you're about to be recognized," Hayashi whispered.
"Ah—okay, time to wrap this up."
Yoko took two quick spoonfuls of ice cream, then donned her mask and hat. Ironically, her attempts to disguise herself confirmed her identity to the other diners — but fortunately, no one said anything until she was outside and safely in the car.
Hayashi Yoshiki drove her back to her apartment.
The lights of Beika City at night weren't unusual, but as they drove, the passing glow of street lamps cast moving shadows on the windshield — an oddly peaceful sight.
"I had a great time today, Yoshiki-san."
"Me too, Yoko-san."
"Mhm."
As they neared her apartment, Yoko turned to look at him. She stared at his face for a moment, hesitating.
"Is something wrong?"
"Well… could you just call me Yoko? 'Yoko-san' feels a little stiff."
"Alright. Then, Yoko—"
Hayashi stepped on the brake as they came to a stop, and turned to her with a soft smile.
"—you should call me Yoshiki."
"Okay... Yoshiki-kun."
She smiled brightly as she said it.
Placing her hand on the door handle, she stepped out of the car. Then she leaned down slightly and peeked back in at the driver's seat.
"See you then, Yoshiki-kun."