The next day arrived, and Fuji, now fully committed to protecting his family from the shadows, was preparing for his new role as a bodyguard under his second identity, Gun Park. His family had been made aware of this secret persona, understanding the sacrifices he had made to shield them from harm.
As Fuji entered the grand foyer of his father's company, the opulent surroundings contrasted with his true identity as the legendary demon. The immaculate marble floors, towering pillars, and sparkling chandeliers created an air of elegance and sophistication. He adjusted the tie of his dark suit, reminding himself of the dual life he now led.
Receptionist: (Warmly) Good morning, Mr. Park. Mr. Shikimori is expecting you in his office on the 25th floor.
Fuji nodded with a polite smile and made his way to the elevator, keeping his composure while feeling a wave of anxiety wash over him. The elevator ride was silent, his thoughts consumed by the responsibilities he was about to take on.
As Fuji confidently walked through the ornate corridors of his family's prestigious business empire, the whispers of recognition continued among those who had known him before his disappearance. They marveled at the transformation and couldn't help but wonder about the mysterious Gun Park who had suddenly appeared in their midst.
One former acquaintance approached Fuji with a curious expression, "Gun Park, you bear a striking resemblance to Fuji Shikimori, the one who vanished years ago. Any relation?"
Fuji, maintaining his calm and unwavering demeanor, replied with a touch of amusement, "Fuji Shikimori? I'm afraid I don't know who that is. My name is Gun Park, and I'm here for a job interview."
The acquaintance, taken aback by Fuji's assertion, couldn't help but nod and step aside. "I must be mistaken. You just reminded me of someone I used to know."
Fuji continued his journey through the corporate labyrinth, his thoughts focused on the mission he had undertaken. As he approached his father's office, he reminded himself that he was the legendary demon, a guardian of his family's safety, and no matter what challenges lay ahead, he would face them with the determination and strength that had become his trademark.
Upon reaching the 25th floor, Fuji approached his father's office. He knocked on the door and heard his father's voice from within.
Mr. Shikimori: (Welcoming) Come in, Fuji.
Fuji entered the office, maintaining his professional demeanor. His father, sitting behind a massive mahogany desk, looked at him with a mixture of pride and concern.
Mr. Shikimori: (Serious) Fuji, I understand your reasons for taking on this role. But I want you to remember that, despite the circumstances, you're still my son.
Fuji: (Resolute) I know, Dad. I'll do everything in my power to ensure the safety of our family, even if it means leading this double life.
Mr. Shikimori: (Nodding) Very well. You start today as my personal bodyguard. I've arranged for some experienced security personnel to assist you. Trust them and remember, your primary duty is to keep our family safe.
Fuji: (Determined) I won't let you down, Dad.
With a firm handshake, Fuji accepted the responsibility placed upon his shoulders. He was ready to take on this new identity and protect his family at all costs, even if it meant living a life of secrecy and danger.
Fuji, with a sense of accomplishment and determination, pulled out his phone and dialed Amane's number. After a few rings, Amane's voice came through the other end.
Amane: "Hello?"
Fuji: "Hey, Amane, it's me, Fuji. I just wanted to let you know that I've successfully made it through the first step. The job interview went smoothly, and nobody recognized me as Fuji Shikimori."
Amane: "That's great to hear, Fuji. You're doing an amazing job. Just remember, we're all here to support you, and together, we'll bring down Erica and Lawrence."
Fuji: "Thanks, Amane. It means a lot. I'll keep you updated on any developments. Stay vigilant."
With their shared determination to protect their loved ones, Fuji and Amane knew they were on the right path to confront the shadows of their past and ensure a safe future for their families.
Alice was at the Shikimori company for a business meeting because she likely had some professional dealings or collaborations with the company. As a businesswoman, she may have had partnerships, contracts, or discussions related to mutual interests or projects with Shikimori Company, which required her presence at the meeting.
Alice, dressed professionally for the business meeting, couldn't help but smile when she saw Fuji in the corridor. She noticed his confident demeanor and the impeccable black suit he was wearing. As she approached him, her cheeks turned a faint shade of pink.
Alice: "Gun Park, I see you're back. You look quite dashing in that suit."
Fuji, maintaining his cool demeanor, nodded with a polite smile.
Fuji: "Thank you, Alice. It's good to be back."
Alice's heart skipped a beat as they exchanged pleasantries, and she couldn't deny the undeniable attraction she felt towards the enigmatic man in front of her. With a friendly nod, she continued on her way to the office room for the business meeting, secretly relishing the thought of seeing more of Gun Park in the days to come.
As Alice walked toward the meeting room, her thoughts were filled with gratitude and determination.
Alice (thoughts): Thank you, Fuji, for forgiving me. Because of me, you suffered 12 years ago, but this time, I will support you and protect you at all costs.
With a resolute expression on her face, Alice entered the meeting room, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead and stand by Fuji's side.
Fuji watched Alice as she headed toward the meeting room, a faint smile playing on his lips.
Fuji (Thoughts): It's incredible how much she's changed. The girl who used to bully me is like a completely different person now. It seems she's become someone I want to protect, in addition to my family.
With a sense of hope and newfound connection, Fuji continued his walk through the company building, determined to embrace the changes life had brought and to protect those he cared about, including Alice. The past may have been painful, but the present held the promise of better days ahead.