Chapter 76: Cutting Off

Around three in the afternoon, the opening ceremony of the grand film festival finally came to an end. Suzuki Sonoko, the second daughter of the Suzuki Foundation, as promised earlier, approached Akikawa Kyousuke and Itakura Misaki to escort them to the film festival's exhibition area.

"This film festival can be considered the largest in Japan's history. Also, there will be a dinner at Harbour Court starting at 6:30 PM, so today will definitely be packed with activities," Suzuki Sonoko explained enthusiastically as she walked beside Akikawa Kyousuke.

"The actors, directors, and screenwriters invited here change daily, and many of them are rising talents. So, I think Mr. Akikawa won't get bored even if he stays here for four or five days.

Additionally, many excellent works are on display this time. It's nearly impossible to view them all within the duration of the exhibition."

"That's amazing," Akikawa Kyousuke nodded, expressing his awe.

As he noticed people heading out of the exhibition area, he curiously asked, "Where are those people going? Aren't they planning to explore the festival?"

"Oh, they're probably heading back to the hotel. After all, the first three days of the festival are only open to the media and industry professionals. There's no issue if they don't visit today," Sonoko replied with a smile.

"I see. Thank you, Ms. Suzuki, for clarifying."

"It's nothing at all! Just a small effort," Sonoko replied cheerfully.

Although she downplayed it, Conan, Mouri Ran, and others nearby couldn't help but notice how satisfied she looked after receiving Akikawa Kyousuke's gratitude.

This visible reaction invigorated Suzuki Sonoko even further as she turned to him with renewed energy.

"By the way, Mr. Akikawa, is there any work, director, or actor you're particularly interested in? I can lead the way!"

"Hmm, I wonder if there's anything directed by Masako Saeda."

Even though Akikawa Kyousuke hadn't watched many films since arriving, he still remembered the director's name from the rented discs he had seen at the original owner's house.

"Director Saeda? That's a classic name. I believe her works are also being showcased here," Sonoko replied, quickly pulling out her phone to search.

Moments later, her eyes lit up. "Found it! It's a short piece called Summer Dreams! I'll take you there!"

Sonoko led the way excitedly, with Ran, Conan, Sera Masumi, and others following close behind.

Conan appeared a bit uninterested, walking with his hands in his pockets as his gaze wandered over the large posters.

Meanwhile, Mouri Ran was clearly in a better mood, taking photos of the movie posters that piqued her interest.

However, Sera Masumi—a woman with a charisma rivaling that of current male idols but with a tomboyish demeanor—kept her gaze on Akikawa Kyousuke, who was chatting with Sonoko.

"At first, he spoke very little, usually picking up topics initiated by Sonoko.

But as they discussed movies, he clearly became more engaged and displayed a strong desire to chat.

Is it because it's a topic of interest?" Sera thought to herself.

She recalled Officer Takagi mentioning that many rented discs had been found at Akikawa's house.

"As expected, he must really enjoy watching movies," she concluded, quietly observing Akikawa Kyousuke.

Despite having walked around for over an hour, she noticed that his behavior was consistent with the impression he left during their first meeting.

When Akikawa Kyousuke portrayed otani Sae on stage, his radiant presence vanished as soon as he left the spotlight.

"Hey, Akikawa, let's talk."

Sera Masumi suddenly stepped forward, interrupting the conversation between Sonoko and Kyousuke.

Pointing to two posters in the projection hall across the room, she asked, "You must have heard of Directors Shimono and Utsumi, right? Between their two works displayed here, which one do you find more appealing based on the titles?"

"Hmm… I'd say it should be The Wave directed by Utsumi," Kyousuke began but suddenly stumbled over his words.

"The Wave of Youth: A Moment Beyond! That's the full title," Misaki Itakura whispered a quick correction.

"Oh, yes, that's it." Kyousuke smiled awkwardly, nodding in acknowledgment.

Both Ran and Sonoko exchanged slightly surprised looks.

Misaki Itakura, however, couldn't help but feel an overwhelming urge to cover her face in embarrassment.

Akikawa had performed admirably in front of Sonoko until now, but failing to pronounce the title of a movie was mortifying.

If a renowned director had witnessed this scene, no amount of acting talent or good looks would secure him a role.

"This guy," Conan mused as he observed Sera Masumi.

It was evident she still hadn't given up on testing Akikawa Kyousuke. However, from what Conan could see, Kyousuke didn't seem vastly different from a child in terms of intellect or general knowledge.

"Akikawa, why are you here?"

A familiar voice suddenly interrupted the moment.

Everyone turned to see Okino Yoko, whom they had met earlier during the opening ceremony. Her surprise upon seeing Akikawa Kyousuke was palpable.

Even more so when she noticed he was with Ran and Conan.

"Wait, Conan and Miss Mori, do you know Akikawa?"

"Sonoko invited him. We officially met today," Ran explained.

"Nice to meet you, Akikawa from the club. Thank you for taking care of me," Yoko greeted, bowing gracefully to Sonoko.

Startled by Yoko's formal gratitude, Sonoko quickly reassured her, "Oh, no need for that, Miss Yoko!"

Yoko, however, continued, "It's nothing. I just didn't expect to run into Akikawa-kun here. Actually, I'm meeting Director Hota soon. If I can bring Akikawa-kun along, it might greatly benefit his future."

Hearing this, Sonoko quickly interjected, "I see. I only brought Mr. Akikawa here for a casual visit. Miss Yoko and Mr. Akikawa, please go ahead."

"Thank you, Ms. Suzuki," Yoko replied with a dazzling smile, leaving Sonoko momentarily stunned.

"You've been cut off, Sonoko," Sera teased with a smirk.

"Huh?!" Sonoko exclaimed in confusion.

Meanwhile, Conan shared a knowing look with Sera Masumi, silently acknowledging the same conclusion—

Yoko didn't seem keen on Akikawa staying with them.

---

Elsewhere, Yoko took advantage of Kyousuke's temporary absence to approach Misaki Itakura, who appeared slightly flustered.

Her voice was soft and melodious as she asked, "Miss Itakura, could you tell me why you and Akikawa are here?"

(End of Chapter)