The Shards of War: Balancing Power

Chapter 54

Blaze continued her exploration of Matsu's overnight room, her eyes catching glimpses of his personal life. The room, although modest, seemed to be a treasure trove of memories. She found a drawer filled with various trinkets — concert tickets, small souvenirs, and even a worn-out comic book.

As she sifted through the items, Blaze's thoughts meandered to the group photo she had discovered earlier. It struck her that Matsu considered them not just friends or colleagues but as his family in Ironhaven. The sense of camaraderie and mutual support they shared was evident in the captured moments.

Blaze couldn't help but wonder about Matsu's perspective on friendship and family. She marveled at the depth of connection he had forged with this eclectic group of individuals. It wasn't just about being colleagues at Kagayaki Industries; it was a bond that transcended the professional realm.

Spotting a neatly arranged stack of letters, Blaze picked them up and began to read. They were postmarked from various locations, and she realized they were letters from Matsu's sisters — Yumiko, Iyomei, and Khamenei. Each letter radiated warmth and love, and Blaze couldn't help but be moved by the evident affection between siblings. There were even two from Calie and Marie which didn't surprise her.

The more Blaze delved into Matsu's personal space, the more she discovered about the layers of his life. It was a reminder that everyone had a story, a collection of moments that shaped them. She couldn't deny the sincerity and authenticity that emanated from Matsu's room, painting a portrait of a young CEO who valued connections and cherished the people who filled his life.

As she carefully put everything back in its place, Blaze couldn't shake the feeling of having stumbled upon something sacred. Matsu's overnight room, with its tangible memories and personal artifacts, became a testament to the importance of relationships in his life. Closing the door behind her, Blaze carried with her a newfound understanding of the man behind the CEO façade.

Then Blaze then walked back to the R&D department, after hours it was time for her to leave and she headed to Matsu's office where he was finishing the last of his paperwork and said they should head out, it's just a little past 12 in the afternoon. In the elevator, Blaze whispered in Matsu's ear that she snooped in his overnight room and found some handwritten notes in a box from Calie and Marie, and Matsu blushed a little.

Matsu chuckled nervously at Blaze's revelation, his cheeks turning a faint shade of red. As the elevator descended, he replied, "Well, I guess I need to be more careful with where I stash things. It's just personal stuff, you know?"

Blaze smirked and nudged him playfully. "Yeah, yeah, personal stuff. I get it. But seriously, those handwritten notes from Calie and Marie are pretty sweet. You've got some fans, huh?"

Matsu couldn't help but smile, appreciating the genuine sentiment in Blaze's words. "They mean a lot to me. We've been through so much together, and they've always been there, supporting me."

The elevator doors opened, and they stepped out into the lobby. Blaze teased, "You're blushing, you know. Anyone would think you're in love with them or something."

Matsu rolled his eyes, trying to play it cool. "Come on, you know we have to keep it a secret, just best friends, remember."

As they exited the building, Matsu locked the door behind them. Blaze looked around, ensuring no prying eyes were nearby, and said, "Well, whatever it is, just make sure your 'personal stuff' stays personal. We wouldn't want the rumor mill to start churning, would we?"

Matsu laughed, acknowledging Blaze's point. "You've got a point. I'll be more discreet. Thanks for the heads up, Sis."

Blaze winked and nudged him again. "No problem, Big Bro. Now, let's go grab some lunch. I'm starving."