chasing the Cat (M X M)

Chapter 1: An Unexpected Encounter

Akira Tanaka, a talented graphic designer, smoothed a hand over the sleeve of his crisp blazer as he strode through the double doors of Sakura Elementary School. His heels clicked sharply against the tiled floor, betraying the nervous energy thrumming beneath his composed exterior.

Despite his experience with client presentations, something about this particular pitch felt different. Akira paused in the school's reception area, glancing down at the sleek portfolio case gripped in his hand. Inside lay the culmination of weeks spent meticulously crafting the perfect branding strategy for Sakura Elementary's upcoming 50th anniversary celebration. This was an important contract - one that could open doors to lucrative new clients for his firm. He couldn't afford to mess this up.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, Akira approached the front desk, where a kindly-looking woman in a crisp blouse greeted him with a warm smile.

"Good morning! How may I assist you?"

"Good morning," Akira replied, infusing his tone with a confidence he didn't quite feel. "I'm Akira Tanaka from Tanaka Designs. I have a 10 o'clock appointment with Principal Watanabe to discuss the 50th anniversary branding proposal."

"Ah, yes, of course!" The receptionist nodded. "Principal Watanabe is expecting you. If you'll have a seat, I'll let him know you've arrived."

Akira murmured his thanks and turned to find an empty chair in the small waiting area. As he settled into the cushioned seat, he couldn't help but let his gaze wander, taking in the cheerful decor and the sounds of children's laughter drifting from down the hall.

A flash of movement caught his eye, and Akira found himself watching a tall, dark-haired man stride into the reception area, his long legs carrying him with an easy, confident gait. There was a gentle kindness in his expression that made Akira's heart skip a beat, and he felt his cheeks flush with heat as their eyes met for the briefest of moments.

Akira quickly averted his gaze, cursing the way his body had reacted to the stranger's presence. He couldn't afford any distractions, not today. He had to focus on his presentation and securing this important contract.

"Tanaka-san?"

Akira's head snapped up at the sound of the receptionist's voice, grateful for the distraction. "Yes?"

"Principal Watanabe is ready for you now. If you'll follow me, please."

Squaring his shoulders, Akira rose from his seat and fell into step behind the receptionist, determined to push the memory of the handsome stranger from his mind. As he followed the receptionist down the hall, Akira couldn't help but wonder if fate had other plans.

Akira's palms grew damp with nervous sweat as the receptionist led him down the corridor. The sounds of children's laughter and the occasional peal of a bell echoed off the brightly-colored walls, creating a cheerful atmosphere that only served to heighten Akira's anxiety.

When they reached the principal's office, the receptionist paused and gave Akira an encouraging smile. "Principal Watanabe is just inside. Good luck with your presentation!"

Akira nodded stiffly and pushed open the heavy wooden door, his gaze immediately landing on the kind-faced man seated behind the desk.

"Ah, Tanaka-san, welcome!" Principal Watanabe rose from his chair and extended a hand in greeting. "It's a pleasure to meet you. Please, have a seat."

"The pleasure is mine, Watanabe-san," Akira replied, shaking the man's hand firmly before settling into the chair across from the desk. He placed his portfolio case on the polished surface, taking a moment to collect his thoughts.