Chapter 190: The Burden of Paperwork

Chapter 190: The Burden of Paperwork

Malik sat in his mansion, surrounded by towering stacks of paperwork that seemed never-ending. The soft rustle of papers filled the air as he glanced over document after document. His desk, an intricately carved piece of mahogany, was barely visible beneath the piles of contracts, letters, and files. He sighed, realizing he had been ignoring his responsibilities for far too long.

Just as he reached for another paper, the door to his office swung open, and Iūky and Kaede entered, their expressions a mix of amusement and exasperation.

"Boss," Iūky called out in her playful, teasing tone, leaning against the doorframe with her arms crossed. "You can't avoid it forever. You've got responsibilities, you know."

Kaede, always the more formal and composed one, nodded in agreement. "We need to get you caught up on everything, Malik. There's a lot that's been piling up."

Malik let out a groan, sinking further into his chair. "Do I have to? Can't I just... not?"

Kaede walked over, placing a neat stack of papers on the desk in front of him. "You've been ignoring the opening of several new bakery locations. The investors are getting restless. There are also the Gatō Company shipments that need your signature, and don't forget the trade routes we're supposed to be approving for the next quarter."

Iūky chimed in, tapping her temple where a tattoo of a swirling design shifted slightly. "And we haven't even started on the meetings you need to schedule. You've got a bunch of boring appointments with some uptight nobles, a couple of stuffy merchants, and don't get me started on the investor relations talks. Ugh, just reading through their proposals made me want to fall asleep."

Malik raised an eyebrow. "You know, you're really making me look forward to this."

Kaede smiled sympathetically. "It's necessary. If you don't handle this, things are going to fall apart. Plus, Iūky and I won't always be here to bail you out."

Malik sighed, defeated, and nodded. "Fine, fine. Let's get this over with."

The Endless Paperwork

Malik spent the next few hours hunched over his desk, his hot pink eyes scanning document after document. He signed off on contracts for new bakery locations in several key regions, ensuring that the expansion of his empire would continue without a hitch. The Gatō Company's trade routes were a bit more complex, requiring his approval on shipping logistics and security measures to protect the shipments from bandits and thieves.

As he worked, Iūky and Kaede stood nearby, occasionally handing him additional files or explaining the finer points of some of the more tedious documents. Malik's mind began to drift as he worked, though every time he started to slack off, Iūky would nudge him back into focus with a playful tease, while Kaede gently reminded him of his deadlines.

At one point, Mitsukihime, his Head Butler, entered the office, her movements precise and deliberate. She walked over to the large windows, her long silver-and-green hair flowing gracefully as she opened one of them to let in fresh air. The cool breeze was a welcome relief from the stifling air of the office.

"Lord Malik," she said in her usual calm tone, "I've noticed you've been cooped up in here for quite some time. The fresh air should help you focus."

Malik, ever the flirt, couldn't resist. "Ah, Mitsukihime, if I could take a break from this paperwork, I'd gladly spend my time admiring you instead."

Mitsukihime, ever composed, didn't miss a beat. "Your work awaits, my lord. I suggest you return to it." She turned sharply on her heel and exited the room, leaving Malik with a mischievous smile on his face. Her response, though professional, always managed to amuse him.

A Mountain of Tasks

As the hours dragged on, Malik signed off on investment opportunities, reviewed marketing proposals, and handled merchant negotiations. The monotony of the tasks made his mind wander, but he knew that these were essential to the smooth operation of his expansive business empire.

There were requests for permits to expand one of his more successful shops, shipment details for exotic ingredients, and a proposal from a nearby village looking to establish a trade agreement with one of his companies.

Iūky, sensing his frustration, leaned over the desk, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "You know, if you finish this quickly, we can grab a drink later. Non-alcoholic for you, of course."

Malik chuckled. "I'll hold you to that."

The Final Push

After what felt like an eternity, Malik neared the end of his paperwork. The last few documents involved real estate approvals for new bakery locations, and a meeting agenda with a high-ranking official from the Land of Lightning who was interested in collaborating on a joint venture. Malik sighed in relief as he penned his final signature for the day.

Kaede smiled, her hazel eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Well done, Malik. That should cover everything... for now."

Iūky stretched, her tattoos shifting slightly across her skin. "About time. You're free... until tomorrow."

Malik shot her a playful glare. "You two are relentless."

Kaede smiled softly. "We're just making sure everything runs smoothly."

As Malik leaned back in his chair, the weight of the day's work finally lifted off his shoulders. He wasn't done with all of his responsibilities, but he had made significant progress. He glanced at Iūky and Kaede, grateful for their support. Despite the exhaustion, he knew they had his back.

As the afternoon light filtered through the window, Malik gathered himself, readying for the meetings and events that awaited him. But for now, he had earned a small break, even if only for a moment.

Malik stretched in his chair, feeling the tension in his muscles after hours of being hunched over paperwork. The weight of responsibility always seemed heavier when it involved tedious administrative work, but he knew it had to be done, especially with his upcoming meeting with nobles and investors.

As Iūky and Kaede left to prepare the meeting room, Malik leaned back, letting out a sigh of relief. Even though he was a young, energetic man, spending too long in a chair wasn't doing his body any favors. He absentmindedly patted his round belly and stood up, walking around his office to stretch his legs.

The room was spacious, with tall windows that allowed sunlight to filter in, giving the office a warm glow. His eyes were drawn to the large window overlooking the surrounding neighborhood, and as he gazed outside, he noticed a few interesting things that immediately caught his attention.

As Malik peeked out the window, a woman on the rooftop of the adjacent building caught his eye. She was hanging laundry, her movements slow and deliberate. She appeared to be in her late twenties or early thirties, her long hair swaying in the soft breeze. Malik watched her casually, thinking she must be one of the newer neighbors he hadn't noticed before.

To his pleasant surprise, she spotted him too. Her eyes widened for a brief second, then she smiled and waved at him, her cheeks flushing pink. Malik, being the gentleman he was, waved back with a charming smile. As she leaned against the railing to return his gesture, Malik's eyes couldn't help but notice the angle—he had a clear view up her dress, catching sight of her white panties. She didn't seem to realize it, and Malik simply chuckled to himself, not daring to say a word.

Just as Malik was about to step away, a blur of motion caught his eye. Down the street, a delivery girl was sprinting past, a package clutched in her arms. Her chestnut hair bounced behind her in a high ponytail as she ran, her large breasts bouncing rhythmically with each step. She was moving fast, likely trying to meet a deadline, but even in her haste, Malik couldn't help but admire the unintentional display. The sunlight hit her just right, revealing the outline of her bra through her shirt as she dashed past.

Being a well-known figure in the Hidden Leaf, Malik often found himself at the center of attention, and today was no different. The delivery girl glanced his way as she passed, her face lighting up in recognition. Malik waved, and though she was in a rush, she gave him a flustered smile before continuing on her way.

Finally, Malik's gaze landed on a third figure—a woman cleaning the windows of a nearby building. She was meticulously wiping down the glass, her movements fluid and graceful. Malik watched her for a moment, appreciating the sight, when he noticed something that made him smirk. The woman's shirt had gotten damp, and she hadn't realized that it had become slightly transparent in the process. With no bra underneath, her bare breasts were faintly visible through the wet fabric.

Malik, always the considerate man, tried to signal her, pointing at his own chest to hint that something was amiss. At first, the woman seemed confused, her brow furrowed as she tried to understand what he was gesturing at. But when it finally clicked, her face turned crimson. Embarrassed, she quickly bowed to Malik in apology before rushing inside the building, out of sight.

Malik chuckled to himself as he stepped back from the window, the small incidents of the morning amusing him more than he expected. It seemed his Lucky Pervert skill was working overtime today, bringing him one "accident" after another. As fun as it was, Malik knew he had more pressing matters to attend to. He had a meeting to prepare for, and no amount of lucky accidents would excuse him from his responsibilities.

He straightened his clothes, gave one final wink to the woman still hanging her laundry on the roof, and turned away from the window. With a smile on his face and a renewed sense of focus, Malik headed back to his office, ready to tackle whatever else the day had in store.

The room was adorned with rich, warm colors, designed to put anyone at ease. The soft, overstuffed chairs and sofas gave off an air of luxury, but the real focal point of the room was the large wooden counter in the center, where Malik stood, preparing something special for his third meeting of the day.

Across from him, seated in a high, plush chair, was Lady Elira Ashborne, a noblewoman hailing from a family renowned for producing a unique variety of trees in the Land of Fire. These trees produced a rare sap, refined into exquisite sugars that Malik had been eager to get his hands on. Lady Elira was in her early forties but had a youthful glow about her, with piercing blue eyes and yellow-brown hair that framed her aristocratic features.

Despite the rich, noble air that surrounded her, Malik noted her slightly tanned skin, a subtle contrast to the typical pale complexion of someone born into such wealth. Perhaps she spent time outdoors, personally tending to the trees and sap, or at least oversaw the process enough that her appearance was affected. Malik respected that about her—either she was hands-on in the business, or she just burned easily. Both options amused him.

Lady Elira's dress was a marvel of craftsmanship, made of expensive silk that shimmered with every movement. It was tailored perfectly to her figure, showing off her full, large bosom, the fabric hugging her curves just enough to draw attention. Malik, of course, as the gentleman he was, maintained a steady conversation while masterfully stealing quick glances, becoming a bit of a maestro at this delicate art. He knew how to make his admiration subtle, respecting the boundaries while indulging in a brief admiration of the view.

Her family estate was located deep in the Land of Fire, near the southern borders, where the unique climate allowed the special trees to thrive. The Ashborne family had been in the sap business for generations, and their refined sugars were considered some of the finest in the world, often used in high-end confections, including Malik's rare baked goods.

"Tell me, Lord Malik," Lady Elira began, her voice smooth as honey, "what inspired your sudden interest in our family's sugars? We've been in this business for generations, but we've never had a request from someone of your... renown." She smiled coyly, her eyes sparkling as she took a sip of the tea Malik had prepared for her.

Malik, his hands working deftly as he prepared a rare delicacy, smiled back. "Well, Lady Elira, I've always had a taste for the finer things in life. Your family's sugar is one of those rare treasures that elevate ordinary baking into something extraordinary. And besides..." He leaned in just slightly, flashing her a playful grin. "I've always believed that good partnerships start with something sweet."

Lady Elira raised an eyebrow, a soft chuckle escaping her lips. "Is that so? It seems you have quite the sweet tooth yourself, Lord Malik." She placed her cup down delicately, allowing her eyes to linger on Malik for a moment longer than necessary.

Her bodyguards, standing tall and stoic around the room, glanced uneasily at each other. There were twelve of them, all large, imposing men, clearly protective of the noblewoman they served. Malik noticed their glances—there was concern in their eyes, not for Lady Elira's safety necessarily, but for the fact that Malik only had Tsubaki by his side. One lone bodyguard, as formidable as she was, seemed insufficient compared to their numbers.

But Tsubaki stood relaxed, unfazed, her presence more than enough to put Malik at ease. Dressed in her form-fitting, tactical uniform, she radiated confidence and strength. Her long black hair was tied back in a high ponytail, and her piercing green eyes never wavered from their silent surveillance of the room.

As Malik plated the delicate baked good he had just finished preparing, he brought it over to the counter in front of Lady Elira. The sweet, spiced aroma filled the room, a rare pastry crafted from an exotic recipe known only to a select few. The pastry itself was light and flaky, glazed with a delicate sheen of caramelized sugar, topped with fresh fruit and a dusting of finely ground herbs that added an unexpected depth to the flavor.

Lady Elira's eyes widened in delight as she leaned in, inhaling the scent. "This... is quite something. I must say, Lord Malik, you certainly know how to impress a woman."

Malik smiled, handing her a fork. "Please, my lady, taste it. I'd love to hear your thoughts."

She took the fork delicately, slicing into the pastry with precision before lifting a small bite to her lips. Her eyes fluttered closed as she tasted it, clearly enjoying the complexity of flavors. "Mmm, exquisite," she murmured. "You've outdone yourself."

Malik leaned against the counter, watching her with a satisfied smile. "I'm glad it pleases you. A partnership between us would certainly benefit both our families... and I dare say, bring much more of these moments in the future."

Lady Elira met his gaze, her smile teasing. "You're quite the charmer, Lord Malik. I must admit, I didn't expect this meeting to be so... delightful." She set her fork down, glancing at her bodyguards for a moment before leaning in slightly. "But I should remind you, I am a married woman."

Malik raised an eyebrow, his grin never wavering. "Married? I never would have guessed, Lady Elira. You carry yourself with such... independence. But rest assured, I would never dare to disrespect your husband's position."

Her eyes sparkled with amusement as she took another bite. "Good. Though I have to say, he's often away on business... I do enjoy these little... distractions." Her tone was playful, and Malik could tell that her marriage hadn't stopped her from entertaining a flirtation or two in the past.

They continued their conversation, weaving between business talk and flirtation with ease. Malik found himself enjoying the verbal dance they were engaged in, though he remained professional enough to secure the deal for the coveted sugars. As their meeting drew to a close, Malik left Lady Elira with a promise to follow up on their arrangement.

"Until next time, Lady Elira," Malik said, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he bid her farewell. "I look forward to our continued... sweet collaboration."

Lady Elira chuckled softly, rising from her seat. "As do I, Lord Malik. You're quite the businessman... and perhaps more."

With a final, lingering glance, she turned and exited the room, her bodyguards falling in line behind her. Malik watched them go, feeling the satisfaction of a successful meeting—and perhaps, something more.

As the noblewoman and her entourage departed, Malik was left alone with Tsubaki, his ever-reliable bodyguard. He leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms above his head with a satisfied grin on his face. Business had gone well, but the tension from the meeting still lingered. He waved Tsubaki over and, with a flick of his wrist, produced a second pastry identical to the one he had offered Lady Elira.

Tsubaki raised an eyebrow, her expression both curious and amused, but she took a seat without protest. Malik placed the plate delicately in front of her, and she simply shook her head as she eyed the treat.

Malik grinned. "How did I do, Tsubaki? Your honest opinion."

She cut a small piece of the pastry with her fork, bringing it to her lips. "You did well as always, Master Malik," she said after a thoughtful pause. "However, if you'd stopped staring at her large breasts for a moment, you might have ended the meeting sooner—and with a more reasonable deal, perhaps involving a little less flirtation."

Malik let out a hearty laugh, thoroughly enjoying her candidness. "Of course you noticed me looking! You're too sharp, Tsubaki."

Tsubaki continued eating with the same calm composure that always made her so effective in her duties. Malik slid a cup of sweet tea toward her, maintaining the playful mood. "I can't help it," he teased. "That dress she wore practically had me written all over it."

Tsubaki glanced up briefly, her gaze steady as she sipped the tea Malik had offered. Her responses came as easily as though they were discussing the weather. "I must remind you, Master Malik, that you are also married—to both Lady Shisui and Mistress Danzō, who happens to be with child."

Malik gave her a sheepish smile, leaning back a little. "Tsubaki, you're too good. I know, I know. Shisui would kill me if I laid with that lady—especially since she's a business partner."

Tsubaki nodded in agreement, still maintaining her calm, measured demeanor. "Business and pleasure must remain separate, Master Malik. It's better that way."

Malik sighed, but a grin crept back onto his face. "You know, your breasts are almost as big as hers." He winked as he made the bold comment.

Tsubaki didn't seem offended in the slightest. Instead, she regarded him with a cool gaze before casually placing her hand on her chest, lifting one of her large breasts a few times as if weighing them in her palm. Malik watched with delighted fascination as her movements made them bounce and jiggle. "Is that so?" she asked, her tone neither playful nor serious.

Malik, always the flirt, smirked but kept things in check. He didn't push further. They had a good rapport, and as much as he enjoyed flirting with her, there were boundaries he respected.

Returning to the business at hand, Tsubaki switched gears smoothly, laying out the rest of his day's schedule. "You have two more meetings today. First, a representative from the Ryūzen Clan will be here to discuss a potential trade agreement involving rare medicinal herbs. After that, a visit from Lord Takemaru, who is interested in investing in your bakery expansion across the Land of Fire."

Malik groaned a little at the thought of more meetings but stretched again, rolling his shoulders. "The Ryūzen Clan, huh? Medicinal herbs… I'll have to think of something unique to prepare for them." His mind raced as he mentally sifted through his vast recipe repertoire, trying to decide what might impress them. "And Lord Takemaru… well, I'll have to figure something out for him too."

As Malik considered his options, he couldn't help but glance back at Tsubaki, who was now eating some fruit from a small dish beside her. The way she casually enjoyed her food, with complete control of her demeanor, made him appreciate her even more. Her tongue flicked out to catch a drop of juice from her lips, and Malik felt compelled to say something.

"You know," he began, "we really should go out sometime, Tsubaki. I've been meaning to take you on a proper date, but you're always too busy training or handling your duties."

Tsubaki's sharp eyes met his, and for a moment, her usual stoic expression softened ever so slightly. She licked her lips again, this time more deliberately. "You'll have to catch me on one of my few free days, Master Malik. But trust me…" She leaned in just a little, her gaze locking with his. "One day, I plan to snatch you up. Just not today."

Malik chuckled at her bold response, nodding as he returned to his thoughts about the upcoming meetings. "Fair enough. I'll be waiting, but until then… let's figure out what I'm cooking for these guests."

Tsubaki simply smiled and went back to enjoying her fruit, leaving Malik to prepare for the day ahead. Despite the endless meetings and paperwork, he knew he could always rely on Tsubaki to keep things running smoothly—and to keep him on his toes.