Chapter 80: The Decisive Battle is on Sunday (3)

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Translator: Soafp

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[Ranko PoV]

Just standing in the lobby makes my heart pound. Even though I know it’s part of the plan, I feel like cold sweat is going to burst out of every pore.

But my face is special, designed for this operation. I tilt my head slightly with a touch of sweetness, making my eyes look a little moist to appear harmless and unthreatening.

The lobby of this high-end hotel feels ridiculously out of place for me. The chandelier, the shiny floor—this isn't a world I'd normally have anything to do with. But today is the day of the operation I planned with Hajime. I absolutely can't afford to fail.

The reason I contacted Koda in the first place was all for this day. When he asked me out before, I brushed him off, but now I don't have that luxury. I need to lead him on, grab hold of his weaknesses, and drag him down no matter what it takes.

Koda is right in front of me. His eyes are glued to me, scanning my entire body like he’s licking me all over, and it feels disgusting. Even if you're used to sugar daddy meetups, this guy's gaze is in a league of its own—sticky, with something murky lurking beneath. A chill runs through me.

But I can’t show that on my face. I smile sweetly, playing the cute, innocent girl. That's part of the plan too. Men tend to let their guard down with just a smile, making it easy for them to get the wrong idea.

“When I got your message, Ranko-chan, I was so happy.”

Koda says, grinning so widely I can see his gums. My throat tightens, and it’s been a long time since I've had to force a smile this hard.

“I'm the one who should be thanking you for inviting me. Sorry I didn't reply right away.”

I flash my best business smile. I'm pretty confident in my ability to smile, thanks to the streaming I do as a hobby. But today is way more nerve-wracking than any livestream.

Behind Koda—

A man named Akutsu.

His build, his aura, his eyes—everything about him is different. Even though he’s wearing a suit, he can’t hide his broad shoulders and chest. His mere presence is enough to make the air around him ripple. The fact that he's a former fighter isn't just for show.

The moment our eyes meet, every hair on my body stands on end. His gaze isn't just looking at me—it's the gaze of someone sizing up their prey. The cold, ice-like look in his eyes pierces my skin and sinks into my bones.

This man suspects me from the start.

“I'll go check us in…”

Akutsu says, his low voice reverberating softly in my ears, making my throat dry up. I can’t even breathe properly until his massive frame disappears into the distance.

As soon as Akutsu leaves, Koda steps in close.

“Ranko-chan, you've gotten even cuter since the last time I saw you. I'm so lucky to get to spend the whole day with you.”

Ugh, no way. I barely manage to swallow down the revulsion rising in my throat. I force a practiced sugar daddy smile.

“Oh, stop, you're making me blush~”

I brush it off with a light-hearted tone. But for Koda, that’s more than enough. Guys like him love to think they're in control.

Once we step into the elevator, Akutsu’s gaze pierces me again. The air in the enclosed space feels oppressive.

As soon as we enter the room, Akutsu silently starts checking everything. Behind the furniture, inside the closet, behind the curtains—he checks every nook and cranny with meticulous care. Despite his rough appearance, he's eerily efficient. It's professional work.

“Ranko-chan, curious?”

Koda asks, grinning like a Cheshire cat as he speaks in an exaggerated tone.

“People at my level, you know, often have to deal with hidden cameras or listening devices. It's a real drag, isn't it?”

Yeah, the world really sucks—because of scumbags like you.

“Totally.”

My polite smile is still part of the plan.

Akutsu finishes his check, then turns his gaze to me, examining me with that cold glint in his eyes.

“No problems.”

Even though he says that, his eyes still don't trust me. He's appraising every inch of me.

“Well then, Ranko-chan, sorry about this, but I'll need you to put up with it for a bit.”

“Huh…?”

Before I can process his words, Akutsu's hands are on me.

“Wait, stop!”

He conducts a thorough body search, from my chest down to my feet, treating me like an object.

“Please… stop it!”

I protest, but to no avail.

It's horrible. But if I resist here, everything will be over. I bite my lip hard, holding back the heat rising in my eyes.

Akutsu pulls out my phone from my pocket and hands it to Koda.

“You can keep the lock on, but we'll be holding onto this for now.”

Koda says with a disgusting grin. I nod weakly, trying to hide the trembling in my fingers.

“…Okay.”

At that moment, there's a knock on the door.

Akutsu opens it, revealing a sharply dressed female staff member standing outside.

But I know instantly—it's Kyoko.

Her posture is perfect, her smile calm, and her movements so flawless they seem artificial. As expected of Kyoko, her composed presence never wavers.

“We're here to inform you that the security alarm on your vehicle has been triggered.”

She says in a soft, professional voice. Despite the brief exchange, Kyoko's ability to control the room is undeniable. I could never pull that off.

“Tch.”

Koda clicks his tongue, making no attempt to hide his irritation.

In stark contrast, Akutsu's face remains expressionless as his eyebrows twitch slightly.

“Please stay in the room and wait until I return. Don't touch anything.”

Akutsu's tone is sharp, like he's issuing a warning. It's clear he's extremely cautious, not wanting anything to happen in his absence.

Kyoko lowers her head slightly and walks away without a hitch.

Akutsu leaves the room, and as I watch his back disappear, I clench my fists.

Now's my chance.

“I'm so thirsty~ Can we order room service?”

I ask, trying to sound innocent.

“If you'd like, I can call them for you.”

Koda says, reaching for the phone.

“I'll call them. You can relax on the bed, Koda-san.”

I say, sweetening my tone just a little, while gently placing my fingers over Koda's hand. I add an exaggerated puppy-dog gaze, and I can see Koda's expression soften.

Now's the time.

I swiftly pull the phone toward me. While Koda is still grinning, I've already taken control of the situation.

On the surface, I'm smiling sweetly. Inside, I'm in a fight for survival.

Sensei… I'm begging you! If you mess this up, I'm really done for…

I wipe my sweaty palms on my dress, making sure to keep my smile intact.

My future depends on you, Sensei!