Hardy had been inspecting various companies, gaining deeper insights into their operations, offering guidance on various issues, and resolving practical problems.
On this particular day, Hardy visited ABC TV station. After six months of development, TV TOKYO had begun to take shape, with established departments, though it lagged behind ABC in the United States, primarily due to the support of Hollywood's formidable production capacity.
Currently, the station only produced news programs, political analysis, economic forums, and talk shows. Hardy had arranged for individuals to participate in these programs. The station also included consumer-oriented segments, focusing on beauty, fashion, and lifestyle, aimed at guiding trends and consumption.
The advertisements broadcasted featured glamorous European and American models, promoting self-care and the latest fashion trends. These ads subtly influenced viewers, especially women, by planting the idea that self-care and beauty were essential.
Hardy was shown around the children's program group. The show, reminiscent of later generations' educational programs, featured a host engaging children in intellectual games. To Hardy's surprise, the host was Fumiko Sasaki, whom he remembered as his former life assistant arranged by Shigeru Yoshida.
Sasaki, now working as a host, had not noticed Hardy during the recording. She had hoped to catch Hardy's attention but missed him. She was excited to learn about a cocktail party that Hardy would attend in the evening, as this might offer her a chance to meet him.
The reception was held at Fujii in Otemachi, Tokyo—a prestigious venue known for its traditional Japanese style. The guest list included top TV station executives, department heads, show hosts, and key directors, all of whom were eager to meet Hardy, the influential figure behind the station.
Hardy's arrival was met with reverence. He greeted everyone with a warm smile, encouraging them to work diligently and expressing his confidence in the station's future success.
The evening progressed, with the atmosphere becoming more relaxed. Sayuri Yoshida and Fumiko Sasaki, the station's prominent hosts, were introduced to Hardy. Sayuri, more confident, took the initiative to pour wine and serve dishes, while Sasaki remained somewhat reserved.
As the evening wore on and Hardy appeared a bit tipsy, the director suggested he rest in a nearby room. Sayuri and Fumiko assisted Hardy to the room, where they gently laid him on a tatami-covered bed.
The bodyguards, respecting the presence of the female staff, did not interfere. Sayuri, after a brief exchange, decided to stay behind and care for Hardy, leaving Fumiko to return.
Sayuri, tending to Hardy, wiped his face with a warm towel and began to undress him. Hardy, in a drunken state, reached out, pulling Sayuri closer and whispering, "If you regret it, you still have a chance now."
Sayuri, initially stiffened, then embraced Hardy's arm, her anticipation evident as she settled beside him.