Two weeks, two weeks of board meetings deadlines and scrambling to keep on top. Hanzo was the number two man for the western sector and he wanted to be number one. The job was twice as bad because where everyone else in the office had interns and secretaries, Hanzo had nothing but himself. It had to stop. Everything in the phones calendar would drain the battery on a daily bases. Aki knew every outlet carried a cord in his briefcase and a solar charger in a dire emergency. His salary was good except for the hotel stays and lunches. He swore if it wasn't for coffee he would have died by now. Two and a half days getting home Friday late in the evening. Where he would sleep until Saturday then fight until Monday where at two in the morning he would leave to catch a train back to Tokyo.

Crammed in the train with other office workers each one smelling of fabric deodorizer and coffee. Each one looking like they ran a marathon in their suits. Hanzo was no different. Barely hanging on to the ring feeling the exhaustion of the last week taking its toll. just one night of sleep in his own bed and then the fight would begin. The thought alone made him smirk. This time he would lead the charge he needed an assistant someone anyone to just pour coffee on him while he worked to answer the phone to let him get a few more seconds to think. The latest blunder of calling to the Americas and so tired Hanzo spoke Japanese to the board for two minutes before they hung up on him. Then his boss came down to check on him and give his verbal wake up call. This week was the worst and according to Aki's boss the last wake up call he would receive. He had to "Get it together" or take a demotion. Aki knew he had to get some help. There was just no way around it.

The train came to a stop and Hanzo's phone alarm went off telling him it was time to wake up and get off the train. Stepping onto the platform and taking a deep breath. The air was clean and made him relax. Hanzo walked up to his wife and kissed her cheek half asleep. getting into the car and off his feet felt great. The few minute drive and they were home. Aki failed to notice her hair down or that she wore makeup and the sun dress that was practically see through and so tight on her.

Miku wanted sex! It had been over a month and for the last two years was only after a major fight where she was pressed against him as they yelled back and forth. Miku occasionally sent a risky message to his phone only to get, at best, a link to shipping. He worked hard and Miku knew that but she didn't want him to stray. She wanted to feel close to him and to be a wife not just a roommate that saw each other occasionally. She had to be a professional the unflattering lab coat and her hair always up. it didn't help that Mitzumi would tell her about her weekend and try to get Miku to go to a bar as a wing-man. Miku's friend not only worked with her but lived really close to the office. Occasionally Miku would stay over at her place instead of driving back. One fight was when when Mitsumi took a picture of Miku half undressed on her couch asleep. She meant it as a sexy pic, but it turned into a fight and one of the louder ones.

As they walked in Aki took off his shoes and gave his wife a kiss before heading off to bed. Aki was so tired he didn't notice the dinner or the candles. He didn't notice the flowers or the house was clean. Miku sighed and blew out the candles, put the food away and sent a text to her friend. "Hey wanna go out tonight?"

Mitzumi's reply, "I'll get ready! We can go to ARAKU, I heard they updated their Karaoke system."

Miku turned out the lights and left locking the door behind her.

Aki awoke after a solid fourteen hour nap. Rolling onto his side to check the time in the comfort of his own bed, it was 11:14. He looked around and didn't see her in the bed room. Getting to the his feet Aki made his way to the bathroom and after getting the weeks stench off his skin dressed and made it into the living room to find Miku passed out on the couch. Aki just shook his head and moved to the kitchen to make some breakfast. The sun was in full effect outside streaming through the windows of the house and the sky was for the most part clear minus some skittered clouds. There was just something about the smell and feel of being home that felt so damn relaxing. Maybe today would be different? He put a little more effort into cooking and made sure to make enough for two.

Miku stirred to the smell of food in the house. Sitting up on the sofa and rubbing her hangover she tried her best to remember last night. Miku could barely breath in the sun dress. Getting to her feet and made it to the breakfast to see Aki sitting there with two plates of food and a pretty good spread. Pouring some juice and trying not to bring too much attention to her bed head she sat and smiled not wanting to be the first to ruin the scene.

Rested and half finished with breakfast Aki finally noticed the dress she was wearing. A smile grew on his face as he let himself stare good and long at his wife. The sun streaming through the room gave away the rest! "Good morning, you wore the dress I like so much. Why did you sleep on the couch?"

"I... I was tired. I put the dinner away and spent the first three hours home getting ready for you." Miku didn't look up as she ate the late breakfast. Fighting her hangover and the bright sunlight streaming into the house was almost torture. Damn that Mitzumi and her hurricanes.

"I want to talk about getting some help. I need it and last Tuesday my boss told me not to come back with out some." His voice gave a seriousness to it that was far more intense filtered through her hang over came out light the first punch.

"No I don't need you in hotels with some twenty one year old going over your briefs. You've done fine and can keep doing it by yourself." Miku was grabbing her head with both hands trying to keep it from exploding.

"No. This wasn't a request I really messed up and I'm getting some help. I'm the only one in that office answering my own phone and its taking time from the work and reports due every day. I'm getting a intern and maybe a secretary too. They are having a internship next week and I'll be putting in for three positions. One for.."

"No. Not three, not even one. I don't get to see you for weeks at a time and when I do your too tired to even eat the dinner I made." Miku's voice was irritated like a low growl.

"I would have the energy if I wasn't doing the work of four people!" His voice raised to just below shouting.

It was killing her head which made Miku raise her own in a even more stern tone. Not wanting to say she had a hangover or how she got it. "I said no!" Miku looked up at him like a poised wolf ready to bite his throat out!

Aki pounded the table and stood up looking down at her. "I made breakfast, tried to keep this a discussion, and made my last mistake at work. I'm getting some interns! So I can be home more often and not be dead on my feet when I get home!"

The shouting set Miku off as the last straw. Slapping the table as Miku looked up at him, "No! I go through the effort of looking pretty for you and wearing this damn dress and you don't even touch me! I cant even breathe in this damn thing and its so tight!"

Bearing clenched teeth as the muscles in Aki's jaw flexed, but his eyes were on her body and that dress... The square neck line and her breathing. He moved around the table and put his face right in front of hers. It had been too long...

In bed Aki held Miku close. Both a little sweaty and Aki kissing her passionately. He didn't want to break the new found mood by more talking. All at once like a dam breaking the passion flooded over him and washed them both away.

"Mmmm..." Her body intertwined with his as she laid there. Her head ache now replaced by a euphoric rush of endorphins. Her breathing slowed but her heart still raced a little. "Still want interns?" She playfully pressed against him.

Aki rolled his eyes "Its not like that!" Aki got up from the bed and moved to the bathroom. Reaching in to turn on the water to bathe. "I have to answer to people and I can't do two or three conference calls, set up appointments, have lunch, and do a presentation all at the same time!"

Aki didn't hear the response or Miku get out of bed. Pressing against him from behind. "No you don't. Why don't you take some time off? Then relaxed you can..."

"That's not funny. They would replace me if I did that then where would we be? We've been over this! We can't With both of us working we can pay off the house in half the time then maybe you can stop working and do other things."

"I need to work I'm not staying in this house going out of my mind being bored. I worked hard earning that degree not to use it and we both have debt from school to pay off." Miku waited crossed arms for the water.

"So do I! Neither debts will be paid if I take a vacation. Starting Monday I'll have to choose at least one to help me through the day. It's no longer my choice. I either get some help or look for another job. Getting fired isn't the type of thing that other employers want in a worker." Aki passed the shower head to her as he started to bathe.

"Then look for another job while you're still there. that way you can quit and maybe move to..." He laughed before getting sprayed with water.

"This is cut throat. If I did that then I would be just as blacklisted. That type of person never moves up, because the company has no trust in them." Aki couldn't help watching Miku while they bathed.

Miku noticed, and played it up. "Change is good. You need to consider that you have hit the top in that company and need a change."

"Ha..." He had a retort but lost it following a trail of soap from Miku's hair.

Miku used it to her advantage and kept talking. "See, Like this soap there are lots of avenues to get to where you want to go. each path is different and not a strait line." Arching her body to create different soap trails.

Aki rinsed and left before his resolve gave out. "You're wrong. Sexy, but wrong. I can turn this around and then get a promotion, but I need help and it's happening. So you'll see after the first week things will be different."

"That's what I don't want! Just use an answering machine." Miku rinsed her hair a final time before getting out.

Aki finished getting dressed, and moved into the kitchen rummaging through the fridge. Settling on a beer. It was gonna be another long weekend.

Aki gave her a kiss on the cheek before getting on the train for the city. He watched Miku get smaller and smaller so fast now she was gone he tried to give a final thought to his dilemma to try and find some way around this problem or perhaps a solution his tired mind couldn't think of till now. He spent the whole ride in vain.

Getting to the office his phone was silent for just enough time to set his briefcase down on the floor next to his desk. It rang and Aki answered. "Hanzo, Logistical director for Takie industries."

"Hanzo! You have a full day to organize the new staff and by the end of the day the budget will allow you to keep two aides. The aids will be ready to interview by you at ten till lunch and then I want your decisions by end of day."

"Yes sir. Thank you." Hanzo waited until he hung up first. Then Hanzo hung up the phone.

Aki looked at his watch. It was eight twenty five. He set everything up for the interview process. He looked outside his office after spending some extra time on ongoing projects and made some phone calls. He had already made a requisition order for tow more desks and chairs with computers. There was one woman in the hall. He kept his face stone and greeted her. "Are you here for the assistant interveiw? You're early. Ms?"

"Miss, ...Tanaka." She swept some of her long black hair behind an ear. Walking past she had a smallest hint of perfume. One after another Hanzo interviewed them, six in all, and worked through lunch. Looking over their resumes all were good workers but as always some stood out more then others. He used his white board and made the five top criteria for the position. Education, experience, work ethic, presentation, communication, and organization. Hanzo made some phone calls to prior employees and asked about their experiences. It was four P.M. Hanzo sent a email to the hiring staff to declare his top two candidates. He sent a blind CC to his boss. Using the last half hour to call his wife. No answer.

The hallway way narrow and not designed for a secretary in the front. They all had to share the space and that was challenging to say the least! Hanzo finally set up a double desk and had the monitor facing back to back. In the space Hanzo use to sleep in. Now hopefully he could get ahead of his work load. He took the rest of the day to plot his work load into three subsections. Contacts sub section phone numbers, addresses, and emails. A Key to routing shipping receiving and import/ exports current and future. A directory to Company personnel, who they are and why their important.

In the morning the furniture came and he set it up. Looking at the clock it was only 730 he already used the dry erase board to lay out the day as he could best describe it. Today would be the first day for the new hires and Hanzo had faith in their abilities. It was sink or swim day for them. Hanzo had no time to teach them more. He made some calls and sent out an email to all of his contacts as he shaved his face and made coffee. The email informed them of the two new points of contact. Miss Ejin, Miss Misuki who would be sending and receiving all future communications. Hanzo had a presentation at nine to the board about finding new options to their bottleneck in the overseas distribution center.

The first day was a great success! Hanzo had time to sit and actually eat his food without a phone in his ear. Both aids in their first day had instantly become invaluable! Especially when there was an issue with distribution that Miss Misuki tackled before he even had a change to worry about it. She was on the phone listened to the issue and solved it rerouting the shipment through the secondary warehouse avoiding a significant delay in product scheduling. She was a natural. At the end of the day they all looked at each other and smiled. Hanzo gave an approving nod. "Thank you both for helping today. I look forward to working with you both tomorrow and the future." He stood and gave a respectful bow to them both. They returned the bow as well.

Miss Ejin cleared her throat, "Well I have to go home. I've set your scheduled out for tomorrow and sent you a copy in your email." She grabbed her coat and walked out closing the door behind her. She walked down the hall impressed with Hanzo's professionalism. She was glad to finally get through the first day of work without a remark or a grope of her body. She was curvy but that was not an invitation to grab her. Now if she could make it through the train ride. Even in a car with all females there was the occasional bump and a smile. She wanted to just make it home and relax on the couch for a bit.

Miss Misuki looked as the door shut and tucked some of her hair behind an ear. "Mr. Hanzo I think there is a few solutions that can be implemented before tomorrow concerning the routs from the docks to other warehouses." She reached over and grabbed a marker she began to layout a whole new distribution network and changed the flow of every thing with the current time of shipments and future time of shipments after the changes. She even eliminated two of the warehouses completely working the numbers to factor savings and reallocation of manpower to increase productivity at two of the critical stop points! She let out a sigh when she was done. As Hanzo sat and watched everything it was so obvious it would work! With a smirk he nodded and began furiously typing away sending the recommendations to the boss waiting for a reply. When he addressed the bottom Hanzo put "The logistics division." Followed by all of their names. He then wrote a letter of commendation in both of their files and sent it to HR. Leaning back he was so impressed with everything done in a single day he failed to recognize the massage he was receiving from two hands behind his chair. Hanzo felt his face flush. "Miss Misuki I don't require that type of aide. That will be all for today." Hanzo didn't look at her. He heard her grab her coat and left.

Misuki was walking down the hall she knew she was a good worker first of her class. She felt she could be a great manager but she would often be over looked. Too often she had been paired with a girl prettier than she was and did half the work that Misuki produced yet these pretty girls would get the promotions and advances. She learned that the only way to compete with that was to play the game. She never imagined she would like it so. The way she advanced and the others didn't the way it made her feel pretty and keep her in a job. It was really her only defense against that type of warfare. This was no different. He was a guy and Ejin was her rival. She would not be let go again and forced to find another job with an excellent reference. She deserved this spot! It was hers! Misuki knew there was only one reason Misuki was picked to stay. She smiled deviously as she watched the elevator doors close. Tomorrow would be different.

Hanzo double checked everything and when he was satisfied it was all done he looked at the clock. 5:25pm! It was the earliest he ever was done with a day! He stood up and grabbing his coat left for the day! The motel would be a good spot and this time he could sleep! If this kept up he could go home this weekend! The thought of going home as a person and not a zombie made him smile. He called home. No answer. Beep. "Hello Honey I'm leaving work I'm done for the day with everything! I cant tell you how much better work was! I love you and miss you. I'll be home this weekend! Wear something pretty we'll go out and celebrate!"

Checking in he made it to the coffin hotel. Climbing in he laid down and slept worry free about tomorrow the first time in a long time. Waking up the following day at five and heading over to the gym to shower and shave before heading to the office.

At the office he got there first only to realize he was very early. Hanzo also forgot that everything that was due yesterday was done already. He sat in his office at seven o'clock and checked his emails. Nothing. looking at the immaculate system Misuki had set up. Finally what Hanzo had carried around in his head for so long because it was constantly changing. today was the first day everything wold be on time. Taking a second to call his wife.

Miku was at work. Looking through a microscope as she heard the door to the lab open. "Hey! We need to go out tonight look at the catch of my dating profile! This guy is hot, hmm!"

"Not now mitzumi. I'm looking at this weeks samples." Miku waved a free hand behind her.

"You have to get out and let off some of that steam." Mitzumi leaned over Miku's shoulder.

She sighed and turned around with a blush to her face. "I already have."

A shocked Mitzumi hugged her! "Thats great! You have to tell me every naughty detail. Then we can go out and you can teach me."

Miku rolled her eyes. "I shouldn't I have to be home I have.." Mitzumi covered her mouth with a hand and shaking her head.

"No way, remember the rule you get some then its my turn." Miku blushed a little. Moving her head back to speak.

"Fine alright! Just dont get all yuri on me. You know how that creeps me out." Sticking out their tongues at each other.

After work Miku clocked out after securing her station for the night. walking out of the building she was rubbing her eyes until someone hugged her from behind. "You ready to party? This guy isn't going to know what happened after tonight! He will be my servant!"

"Ive got to get home. Im not going out in this." Squeezing out of Mitzumis grip. Miku liked her but she was too grabby at times. Mitzumi blamed it on a college dare but it still wasn't for Miku.

"I'll ride with you. You can stop by my place so I can get some clothes then head to the club!" Mitzumi followed her friend to the car and got in. Reclining the seat and stretching out. Muki sighed before turning on the car and driving home. She pulled along the sidewalk and got out. The sun was almost out of sight by the time they got there and it wouldn't be long until the street lights were on.

"I'll just be a moment." Looking at the car to see Mitzumi steeping out and closing the door.

"Great I just need to freshen up before we drive off." She walked towards the house holding the gate for her friend. As they both entered the house Mitzumi made a line for the bathroom while Miku shut the door and walked to the bed room.

In the bedroom Miku started gathering her things while getting out of her clothes. She looked in the closet and picked out a nice dress nothing flashy but simple. She noticed the dress from her weekend on the floor and blushing kicked it under the bed. She laid her choice on the bed then started on her makeup.

Not five minutes later. "Nuh-uh nope not this one were not heading to the library." Miku hear her friend rummaging through the closet.

"Get out of there!" no pause as her friend continued to rummage.

"Wow! You're wearing this! When did you even get this thing?! Are you an escort of something?"

"No I'm not wearing that!" Miku knew without looking the choice. It was a tiny tiny black number that she wore once a few days after her honeymoon. It was almost a crime to wear that out in public. She would be unable to bend at the waist or run in that thing. It was made for one thing and that was not what she was going out for. They stepped back out of the house Miku had the dress in her hand as they made it to the car. She gave Mitzumi a deadly look. "I am not drinking in this and you better be there for me."

Mitzumi nodded but as she turned her head away from her friend she smiled deviously. Tonight was her turn one way or the other.

Hanzo actually got ahead for the first time in years. Turning on the office computer and start with the mornings correspondence. Able to read up on last nights situation report, memos, emails, and phone messages. Nothing from home made Hanzo a little sad but having spare time was new. Maybe she was just too use to not calling because of his normal work schedule. Giving a shrug Hanzo got busy on replies and solutions to distribution problems. Cutting through over half of the morning correspondence before Mrs Ejin came walking in and turned on her computer.

A little surprised to see Hanzo sitting at his desk. "Good morning Mr. Hanzo. I'll start..." she looked at the half full coffee pot. Giving it a brief smirk of acknowledgement. "I'll just start with sending out the morning emails and setting up appointments then." Taking off her suit coat before getting to work.

No more than two minutes later Mrs. Misuki came in to work her hair pinned back with some clips and fresh manicure. "Good morning Mr. Hanzo. A quick glance over at Ejin before her eyes got wide at the bold move of her counter part to remove her own coat already. Misuki sat down in her own chair and began to furiously type at her desk. How dare that busty tramp already make her move on the second day! Well, before the weeks out she was determined not to be unemployed by any means! Which of course did not go unnoticed by Ejin...

Ejin noticed that while her counterpart was on time she started to work at a furious pace! Setting her coffee cup to the side she began to type faster even though it was a simple email soon it became a short novella. The two workers now in constant determination to be the busiest worker. By lunch they both frantically clicked on their mouse and scanned document after document trying to find extra work for the day! Only to discover on both ends they had done most of the week already! The silence from typing now became a panic attack to find work!

Misuki Stood up and waled over to the S.O.P. binders and with a smirk noticed the organizational binder was three years out of date. Giving it a hug she moved it back to her desk. "I will update this over lunch if that is acceptable?" Giving a look at Hanzo.

He looked up trying to respond to the guy on the phone only able to give Misuki a nod of approval. He was having a great day only managing the occasional phone call and not juggling five things at once. Honestly impressed by both new workers. The thought of a second weekend in a row at home made him very happy! Even to the point the tension in his shoulders was now just soreness.

Ejin was not happy at the idle sound of her own keyboard as her counterpart was willing to rewrite a manual during lunch. She had to find something to work on! Then it came to her that some of the warehouse orders were not as quick as they should be. She opened an email to the warehouse manager enclosing a introduction email an a semi not so professional picture of herself to help motivate him to get things moving. The email contained a lot of flattery and appreciation for the hard work they do. Standing up from her desk she put on her coat. "I'm going to take my lunch would you like anything, Mr. Hanzo?"

The tone piqued Misuki's ear. That slut was trying to favor with being subtle! By the time she finished the new operations manual Misuki was going to be the favored and that big bimbo would be out of the office! A devious grin briefly appeared on her face as she typed with a fever pace!

Mr Hanzo shook his head still in the mind set he had a lot of work to do as was a habit of being overworked. Before the boss could change his mind Ejin had left the room.

It was just the two of them in the office and Misuki was practically punching the keyboard in an effort to get noticed. It had the wrong effect as Hanzo cleared his throat and as their eyes met he gave the quiet signal with a finger to his lips. Misuki sunk a little in her chair as she typed quietly.

Miku was at home sitting in the sofa after doing the usual time consuming choirs. She made the bed, vacuumed, and checked the fridge with a pout on her face. It was mostly empty save for two beers and some condiments. Straitening up from bending over to inspect the fridge she smirked. Getting out of the house might just be what she needed.

Walking quickly to the bedroom she opened the closet, it was time to do a little dressing up. Picking out a yellow blouse top with spaghetti shoulder straps and a knee length white skirt she also went with a white pair of stockings with some lacey top for confidence. A small spritz of perfume about her neck for no real reason. Biting her lower lips Miku had gone a step further and wore the garter piece that went with the stockings and a lacey white bra. It had been a while since she wore it remarking the top was a little tight. Giving the thought of gaining weight a sigh she shook the thought from her head. The bored housewife felt a little more optimistic as she reached the front door stopping to gather her purse and put on some very modest flats.

The day was warm and sunny. A few clouds were floating far off in the distance. Thankfully during the summer there was nothing but humidity and heat. Getting caught in a downpour in her cotton dress would be less than ideal. At the store she wondered about the isles looking at the produce and the prices. The undergarments giving the brunette a sense of deviousness. In her hands she held the deep basket and began to select some fresh veggies, a five pound bag of rice, eggs, fish, and a case of beer. The last item gained the housewife some inquisitive looks. As usual the ring Miku wore made the curious bystanders keep their distance. At least all but one person.

"Would you like some help with that miss?" The young man asked. His name tag read, 'Tomo'. He was tall for a teenager. Maybe still in high school, definitely not able to shave Miku thought. His black hair was so thick and shiny like a ravens feathers. Yet the most incredible thing about him was the blue eyes! There were like sapphires or made of crystal!

Miku looked away shaking her head no! By then the manager came over to shoo the boy away, "I am sorry Mrs. He is new. Haru go restock the shelves like I told you."

Miku thought to herself, "Tomo... Haru..." She felt her face get a little red. "I am sorry." She walked to the register where the older man rang up her items. Her heart felt light as she stood there silently paying for the total then leaving with her bags she walked down the street with a smile on her face, "Haru-kun" Miku's voice a soft whisper. She needed to go shopping next week she thought to herself. A little harmless flirting might just be what she needed during the time alone.

Getting to the house front door The brunette took the keys from her purse and opened the door stepping inside to set the groceries down. She sat on the small stool and took off her flats. bringing her fingertips to her cheeks she still could feel the shameful blush. The image of those blue eyes danced about her mind for the rest of the day as she put away the groceries, and then sat on the sofa thinking of Haru.

It was almost 6pm when Hanzo looked up from replying to the last email. Too late to go home for the three hours of time before having to catch the morning train back to the office. He called the house, no answer. Hanzo hoped she was sleeping. "Tomorrow. I'll be home tomorrow." Hanging up the phone Hanzo stood up and stretched. Even the new assitants were tired. They did the work he normally did and still with the three of them it was only seven pm instead of ten. "I want to thank you both. Monday is the hardest and you both helped out. The day starts at 7am. We will go over the plan and schedule meetings for the day to avoid surprises. I'm going to sleep here. The last train should be in the station by eight pm." He bowed politely.

"Mr. Hanzo. I would ask to stay in the office too. Its late and dark out. I dont feel safe walking to the train this time of night." Misuki bowed awaiting his reply.

Yuki looked shocked at the hussy throwing herself at the boss! "I... I would ask to stay too, Mr. Hanzo!" Yuki bowed lower. Hiding her smile even though she had a car and could drive home there was simply no way Yuki would be out maneuvered by that tramp!

Hanzo looked at the two a little taken back at their effort on the first day. "There is a few blankets in the supply closet. With the sofas you may each take one and I will sleep in the office. Good night and good work." Hanzo shut the door and closed the blinds. Exhausted he took off his pants then his shirt. There were hangers in the bottom drawer. Tomorrow he would make it home. A thin bed sheet was also in the same drawer. He unfurled it before sitting into his office chair. Taking off his shoes before propping his feet on the desk. The boss turned off the lights and computer, then closed his eyes. He was so tired, ten hours sleep even in his office was a small blessing he was not about to slip by.

Yuki fake smiled at Misuki. Taking off her flats and then jacket. She watched her rival move to the closet to fetch the blanket. Turning her attention to the sofa. They were comfortable as much as her futon back in her single apartment. Folding her jacket neatly as a second pillow she waited until her rival left the closet area before fetching the other blanket.

Misuki gathered the first blanket judging them to be the same cotton stuffed and semi soft. They didnt have a smell but it was obvious no one really used them in some time. Turning to walk back to the unclaimed sofa, "I think Mr. Hanzo was impressed by our commitment. I think he will be a good boss. Normally they get flustered or turn into pigs when I make this move. Mr Hanzo was very professional." Her voice a soft whisper. She glanced at Yuki. The girl had a lolicon figure definite opposite from her own heavy curves. She slipped out of her heels before untying her long hair from the ponytail.

"Yes. He is very mature to not have fallen for such an obvious play. I think he will make an excellent boss, for me." Yuki said quietly adding a little giggle at the end. Unfolding the blanket before getting on the office sofa to lay down she looked over at the busty coworker. "Could you get the lights?"

Misuki smiled. "Sure." She narrowed her eyes briefly before walking over to the wall switch. "Good night." She whispered. As the light turned off the office was very dark except for the exit sign at the end of the hall.

Yuki rolled her eyes this job was going to be a challenge. She heard the girls heavy foots steps back to the other sofa. It made her smirk thinking of the cow, at least until she heard the unmistakable sound of the metal clasp being unfastened!! She wouldnt dare!? "Was that your bra?!" She quietly hissed!

"Yes." Misuki whispered back in a sweet tone.

Yuki rolled onto her side and pouted, "that tramp!" she thought to herself! Sitting up on the sofa Yuki struggled under the blanket. Taking off her shirt then her bra too. Hearing the gasp of victory she cuddled back down to the sofa. Yuki may not have been as blessed but there was no way she would be out matched! But if her opponent was willing to go this far who was to say that she wouldn't dare cross the line?! Hanzo was married. He wouldnt... would he? The cow did have huge assets. Nervously Yuki set an alarm on her phone for five am.

Leaning back in her chair behind the office desk she sighed finally sending off the last response to the mountain of emails received in the day. They said it was a tough assignment but this was something on a level the American never expected. She let her blue eyes drift over to the edge of the screen, 8pm?! "Fuck!" The blonde said with a soft sigh of defeat. The last train had left and she didnt have a drivers license for this country yet. Kicking off her shoes under the desk she lifted a foot to rub her soles. With a few clicks she ordered a floor massager for her feet online.

The company was very generous giving her a mini fridge and the office space. Her hair was an issue so they jumped at the chance, or it felt that way to have the American hire sealed away from the other office workers. Amanda was over the whole dying of hair routine from her teens and had no interest in redoing roots every two weeks to the conforming black. Her office had a large window and a view that over looked the ocean, if you had a set of binoculars. A fax /printer /scanner was in the corner as was a mirco single serving cappuccino maker she brought with her. The three screen set up was nice as it allowed her to multitask on her work. Keeping up with current trends and cultures was a full time effort and part of the marketing world. Her team was consisting of three different departments with five to seven people in each department. The all reported to her through the department heads with her being the filter between them and corporate.

Turning off the computer and taking a piece of tape she covered the camera lens. Standing up from her chair she stretched her arms up to the ceiling. Letting them fall back to her side Amanda took off her jacket. She slipped her shoe back on and headed to the rest room to freshen up a little. In her bottom drawer she had placed emergency items. A small cup, tube of travel size toothpaste, and tooth brush, A wash cloth and soap, The blond moved to the bathroom. In the hall she could hear some voices in Japanese.

"Was that your bra?"

The marketing director stopped in her tracks! She was in the dimly lit hallway and the question stopped her to a stand still! Nearly dropping the cup she whipped her head to the direction of the words. The door read, "Hanzo Logistics Director" in Japanese. She had heard this as a taboo in Japan and there was a mountain of steamy manga and books written to the subject but, here, really?!

"Yes" Said a second voice. It seemed closer to the door leading into the hall.

Were there two women having an affair in the Directors office?! Amanda felt her face blush. Were they cleaning staff it was late and the marketing director had no idea who was suppose to be in the office at this time. Were they secretaries in a forbidden love affair?!

"I do this at home. I cant wear it all the time. Maybe your jealous?" The second voice giggled.

"Whatever gets you fired. My Hanzo wouldnt fall for that. He is married and likes smaller ...girls." Said the first younger sounding voice.

"You are jealous! It's is okay to admit it. Not like a lolicon like you had a chance." The second voice said sweetly.

"Jealous of back pain and knocking things over with your huge front no thanks. Besides Mr. Hanzo prefers a strong work ethic and someone who is working long hours over how fat their chest is." Said the first voice.

The sound of a zipper made the blond realize she had moved closer and her ear was against the glass door.

"Well I shouldnt want my skirt to wrinkle. It's unprofessional." Said the second voice, followed by a sound like a briefcase being opened. "A good secretary comes prepared. I'm sure with your wrinkled clothes you'll be sent home. That is what a 2 hour train ride, one way? I'll be sure to get ahead in your absence."

The blond could hear rustling on a sofa. Then a soft sound of a zipper.

"You cant! You didnt bring a change of clothes!" The second voice quietly hissed! "Seriously?! What if he comes in or wakes up early?"

Amanda was stunned to the point her cup fell from her hand to the wood laminate floor with a sharp sound! She panicked and grabbed the items and rushed down the hall as she heard the room go dead quiet!
_________________________

Hearing the cup fall and then a lot of footsteps going away from the door made both girls freeze in their banter! Yuki turned slowly to the door and with two fingers moved the blind covering the glass. The hall was dark, the damage done. Now someone knew about their plan. Someone in the office knew of their game of one upping for attention! In the dark office she smiled with her face hanging down. A hand over her heart as it raced. Things were getting interesting! Was it a lonely coworker she could threaten or ...seduce?

Misuki flopped into the sofa pulling the blanket over her head to hide as if she was seven all over again! It was bad enough her rival had goaded her into the argument but now someone might know that she was in her work shirt and panties?! Under covers on the sofa in her bosses office?! She thought Seppuku might be her only option at this point.

Hanzo was fast asleep. Years of routine made office sleeping a pro skill. Like an ancient samurai the Director had sharpened his talent to a keen edge able to defeat even a janitor buffing the floors.
_____________________________

Making it to the bathroom she leaned against the door short shallow breathing as her mind tried to calm herself. The director had two in his office at the same time?! "My Hanzo... Married?!" She thought replaying the conversation in her head as she walked briskly over to the sink to splash some water on her face. The makeup held. She was going to have to scrub a little. letting the hot water run for a bit Amanda stared at herself in disbelief even as she cleaned her face and noted to bring her kit next time. With the wash cloth she started to wipe her face clean from the day. Replaying the conversation over and over. "Mr. Hanzo..." She would remember that name.

At work Miku was all business. Her long black hair pinned up, the white lab coat hugging her slender curves as she walked about the lab. She was sitting at her desk when the knock on her door frame made the lab scientist raise her eyes from the black rimmed glasses she wore. "Wanna have lunch?" Mitzumi was all smiles and leaning heavily against the door frame.

Miku smiled at her friend and nodded. "Yes!" She nearly hoped out of her chair and arm in arm walked to the cafeteria. All giggles and smiles as they gathered the items on the trays. She gave a knowing glance at her friend as they sat down to eat and gossip. Of course Mitzumi was going to try to tell her about all the juicy details of her single life weekend. As the girls lips parted slowly to start her tale Miku began instead. She told of her run in with the cute bag boy at the local market. How blue his eyes were, how thick his hair was, how their fingers touched ever so briefly.

Mitzumi was silent. Her eyes wide for the start of the story. She knew her friend, knew the look, knew what Miku was really saying and it made her sad. Even though she tried to smile. With a fake laugh she teased Miku about it, on how young boys were always like that. She tried to tell Miku in a very indirect way how it was harmless. The boy was simply helping and the manager did the right thing by curbing his enthusiasm. Mikus friend of ten years knew there were fights and money was tight. That dream home and their school debts were making them live check by check. On the surface they had made their dreams. But under the surface a riptide that threated to drown them both was silently ready to take them under. She could tell her friend Miku was starting to sink in that moment. "You should send a text to Aki. Tell him you need to see him tonight. All night long."

Miku's face dropped to her tray as her voice grew cold. "He sent me a voicemail saying he would see me tonight but I'm not counting on it. ...He has help now, at work. Female help."

She didnt know it but Mitzumis mouth hung open. "No. He is a good man. He would never." Is what she wanted to say, should of said. There was a few times when they were in a Karaoke and she had one too many she might of leaned on him a little too long but he never made a single move or suggestion that wasnt honorable. Mitzumi was there at their wedding. She knew what type of man he was. He would never do that sort of thing. He worked himself to death for them at that job trying to be number one! "You're wrong." Is all she said to her frined of ten years without even looking at her. Instead she go up without her tray and walked away.

Mitzumi had his number but never called. It was for an emergency only and hell if this didnt count as one in her eyes. "Mr. Hanzo. Its Mitzumi. You have to go home Mr. Hanzo. You have to go home now... tonight." She leaned against the wall and sighed. Her mind began to race with options. Maybe she could get the kid fired, or have him move, or just kidnapped for a few years until this was over and Miku was back to normal? She sent a text to Aki, "Miku isnt feeling good she needs you to come home." She quietly cursed at herself for getting involved.

____________________________________________

The morning came and Mr. Hanzo woke to his 630AM alarm. He shaved and got dressed with some air freshener to his jackets arm holes. Turning on his computer and raising the blinds first to the window and second to his office door. He gasped at what he saw next! The were in their desks respectively a little disheveled from sleeping on the sofa but already typing like crazy! He stepped out into the common area to see everything was orderly and the blankets were put away. Walking over to the coffee pot that was already full and hot! He made a cup silently watching their drive, though admittingly not certain what they were working on so hard. He slowly walked closer first to Askana. She was already murdering incoming emails from local vendors and had a long list of replies... since FIVE AM?! Her desk had a half cup of coffee and the woman's fingers blazed away at the keyboard easily typing sixty words a minute! With a silent nod he moved over to Miss Ejins desk. She had an empty cup with the fresh stain of coffee in the bottom. Her fingers were slower but she was working on... restructuring the lower east side distribution numbers?! That was a mess! Even Hanzo hated dealing with the constant stream of invoices, and corrections, and deletions or last minute adds to orders. Ejin was typing slower because she had a second screen and was ten keying the figures in real time!!! He was about to offer praise when the phone rang. Only three steps to his office yet Yuki had picked up the call on her desk. They were making his job more streamlined then it had been in the last five years! Silently he continued to his desk.

Everything seemed handled he would get the occasional transfer call to someone wanting to speak to him directly, a few points requiring his decision. The new hires had by lunch the day 90% completed. As a reward he made time to have catering delivered. He ate with them in the common room. The new hires casting smiles at each other as they ate and talked about the figures, emails, and issues. Keeping to themselves the events of last night.

After lunch everyone returned to their prospective desks and resumed their work. Hanzo received an email from the Marketing director wanting to speak with him when the time was right. He felt now would be fine as the office was operating smoothly. Getting his jacket he stood at the doorway. "I need to see the Marketing director. I will be back shortly. I have my cell if there is an emergency." He returned their head nod and left. Heading to the elevator. He never had to go up before except for the one time where he was given the warning of his performance. The managing director was on the tenth floor. He knew they had hired a new one ever since Mr. Tanaka retired last year over health concerns. The man was nearly seventy, Hanzo imagined his retirement during the elevator ride up.

He knocked at the door, it was a corner office. His nose picked up the scent of perfume. It was unmistakable the same as his wife. The door opened to reveal a tall blond woman. "Mr. Hanzo?"

He bowed respectfully and she returned it, "Please come in." Amanda took her seat first then waited for him to take the other one. "I never got the chance to meet with you. I am Miss. Willis the marketing director. You are the logistics director yes?"

"Yes. I run the operations for the south of Tokyo, Australia, and our manufacturing divisions." He sat a little on edge.

Amanda felt her dislike for him fade a little. He was handsome but a two timer and literally with two other women in his own department? The man was a dog. "I see I wanted to ask your opinion about the Australia region..." An hour later their meeting was over. Amanda had to admit he was good, very good at his job as far as his knowledge base. He even was offering to include her on correspondence and loops with clients to try to expand the brand. The cologne he wore while feint reminded her of another time. As he left her office she leaned back in her chair and sighed. "He's still a dog."

On the way back from the meeting his phone vibrated. Stopping in his tracks he read the message from Mitzumi. In the elevator there was no signal. He rushed to his office and heard the voice mail. The time his wife was still at work he sent her a text, then another, and another. "Where are you? What happened? Mitzumi called and text me this. Are you okay? I'm coming home tonight. Let me know you are all right!!" The a text to Mitzumi, "What happened? She isn't answering her phone." He walked past their desks and into his main office. The phone was ringing but he wasnt focused.

"Mr. Hanzo the phone. It is from store seventy two." Askana looked at him. He was focused on the phone in his hand. Had the meeting been about last night? Did they cause him to be fired?! "Mr. Hanzo. Mr. Hanzo? ...Aki."

He looked up a little shocked, more that he was spacing out at work then the first name being used by a subordinate.

"Line two. Southern store seventy two." She felt her face blush a little. She had used his first name. It was too real. Casting back a glance at Yuki an her dark face as she had done the unimaginable by using a first name. That big cow was going down!

Mr. Hanzo simply nodded at Yuki before walking into his office and shutting the door. Siting at his desk he looked at the time, 317PM. He couldnt leave no earlier then 545pm. The train would be at the station by six. Answering the phone his mind began calculating the escape plan to get home.

Misuki tilted her head as she smiled at the cow. She had got the point. It was clear by the rapid way the Yuki was typing. Like a kid in an arcade crushing the buttons trying to hit harder. Miskui strode to her desk in victory and returned to work.

Yuki tried her best not to notice the interns victory. At least from offering any outward sign to her rival. She needed this job. Her apartment, her school bills, the car note, they all were driving her to overcome all obstacles to her path of advancement in the company. To this she would sacrifice anything to achieve her goal!

________________________________________

Miku went about her day making data points, replying to emails, lost in her fantasy. It was just a harmless little dream. She was married. He was just a teen she told herself of all the fail safes that kept her grounded. Mitzumi understood, she was so attentive to her story. Miku knew that they were friends for this reason. Two sides of a coin. She the wife sensible and grounded, her friend the life of the party wild card and free spirit. Each sharing some sort of modern symbiosis with the other. The cell vibrated on her desk. Her eyes read the message from Aki... "Where are you? What happened? Mitzumi called and text me this. Are you okay? I'm coming home tonight. Let me know you are all right!!" Looking up at the doorway Miku was trying to piece it together herself. He never called her at work, never in five years. Mitzumi was messaging him? How long was that going on? ...Mitzumi was messaging HIM AT WORK?! Something in her snapped like a demon breaking through the ground! Her mind spiraled like some category eight typhon! Like the anime character going into overdrive displaying the one red glowing eye; she silently began to rage! All the karaoke nights, all the playful leans, the cute laughs, the gazing at him... All it took was a few messages at work from her and Aki was going to just drop everything and come home? HA! Her eyes narrowed, her mind began to set sniper points like some war documentary! She looked at the time, 406pm the earliest train he could take was the six pm. He would never leave work earlier then seven, the next train to that was the eight pm train. It would still take over an hour for him to get home. Her eyes narrowed, she would be ready! At home with the lights dimmed, cook him the usual meal, her white shoulder strap blouse with a modest knee length green skirt, her hair tied back into a super cute pony tail, the wifely apron 'kiss the cook' print. Then to sit back and let the blowfish poison do the work as she rubbed her hands together sinisterly. Miku softly bit her lower lip and gave a sideways glance, well maybe not that far... not yet.

She sent a test to her friend, "Lets have dinner tonight. My treat."

"I am going out. Date night! Wish me luck." -Mitzumi
Mitzumi could feel the icy hands of death behind her. She knew her friends temper. They had the agreement and an agreement with Miku was practically a blood oath! 'No texting or calling Aki unless it was and emergency' She had done both, in the same day. It marked her for death, there was no way around it. The bushido code would be considered suggestions compared to Miku's word. That woman was an assassin in her determination. In a movie this would be the moment the shuriken shot through the open window and struck the wall next to her head as a warning. Then the ninja a mile away deep in the bamboo forest would sink into the shadows after laughing ominously. Mitzumi sighed defeatedly, slumping in the chair in her office. She was so screwed.
___________________

Mr. Hanzo answered calls checked his cell and sent out the emails. At 540PM he emerged from his office. Already in his suit jacket, "I'm leaving for the day. You both have done good work. I need you two to close the office and be out by six, go home. A sofa is no place for you. I will see you both tomorrow morning at seven sharp." They both hopped up from their chairs and bowed. He bowed and then bolted for the door! His fast speed walking could be heard down the hall.

Misuki gave her coworker a look, "Is this a test? Are we allowed to leave three hours early?"

Yuki shrugged. "I need to get some more work done. Is this some sort of time challenge? I cant get three hours of work done in twenty minutes!"

With a knowing look they sat back down and kept typing.

Aki was at the train station just as it was pulling in. He was mostly alone. There were a few other guys there some of them had small cardboard boxes with office stuff. He had to get home. There was no reply from either of them. If he left work early over one of Mitzumi's pranks he was going to give her an ear full! Hanzo shook his head as he got on the train. No, she knew not to do that. Miku made her promise not to call or text unless it was life or death. Mitzumi knew Miku would not tolerate her pulling a prank like this. His cell rang. It was Miku.

"Is everything all right?" -Aki

"Yes I'm sorry Mitzumi bothered you at work." -Miku

".... You didnt answer. I am on the train." I was worried, is what he should of said, instead he said this, "I left work three hours early!"

"I didnt ask you to!" -Miku

"Then why didnt you answer the phone?"- Aki

"I was working. I do that too you know!" -Miku

Akis anger was growing but it should of went to Mitzumi. "Are you home?"

"...Yes"-Miku

She never came home this early! Seven pm sure, maybe six thirty, but not now. Something was going on! "I'm coming home. We need to talk."

"Okay. I will come get you from the station." -Miku

"Okay." As soon as the call ended he texted Mitzumi. "We need to talk. This is serious."

Mitzumi read the text on her way home. She had really stepped in it. "Are you home?"

"Not yet. I'm on the train. Why is Miku home? What is going on?" -aki

"She is lonely. She needs you home. Miku told me about the interns. Why did you get two girls? Bad move." -Mitzumi

"They were the most qualified, lived the closest, newly graduated, went to the same university as me." -Aki

"bad move." -Mitzumi

He rolled his eyes. So that is how it was. Aki sighed. It was going to be a fight. There was no backing out now. Looking at himself in the windows reflection he shook his head, "Baka."

The rest of the train ride Aki was lost in thought, so much that when the train stopped at his station he looked up to notice it was raining. Getting off the train he walked to the edge of the covering over the exit. Getting his phone out he sent Miku a text. "Flash your lights." She read it and a minute later flashed the car lights. He took a deep exhale before making his way to the car. Getting into the passender seat he handed his wife the phone. No words not even a glance in her direction.

Miku took the phone and looked at Aki with a questioning look.

"Read the text from Mitzumi." He said. Again without looking at her. He didnt want to add to whatever was about to happen.

Miku read the texts, all of them. She felt hurt and betrayed by her best friend. All the poison and hurt was now focused like the edge of a katana at her best friend instead of two people. A tear rolled silently down her cheek. She started the car and drove away from the train station. The car ride was silent.

Aki realized by saving himself he doomed his wifes best friend. There was so much he wanted to say, Aki just didnt know if anything at this point would fix anything for his wife. She was lonely. This hurt him not that he showed it. It was raining and dark not the best time to fight even in an anime. Aki sat in thought about if there was anything he could do to help his wife but the answer was invisible to him. As the car rolled to a stop in front of their home he waited for her to make the first move.

Miku got out. Lightning stuck in the distance, almost on que. She made her way to the front door used the key and walked inside. Aki followed silently.

Aki inhaled through his nose. There was no food. Silently he took off his shoes and coat then went to the kitchen and turned on the lights. The switch was flipped but the power was out. A quiet sigh escaped his lips, the second the tail of the sound left his lips it began.

"I'll make dinner." She came into the kitchen taking down a pan and opening the fridge.

"I dont want you to." He tried to say gently.

"You're hungry I'll make dinner." She tossed open the fridge and gathered some stuff.

"I want to talk to you." He paused as she whipped around to face him. Her eyes full of tears. "Please, I'm just trying to understand." He kept his voice calm and sincere. He had no way of knowing it was being perceived as cold.

"You didn't know? Didnt know I'm lonely? I dont like your two sluts you spend more time with then me. I am your wife!" She raised her voice.

Aki rolled his eyes only to instantly regret it. "Listen to me. They are hard workers..." He flinched at the choice of adjective. "They are not sluts. They are the reason I was able to come home. You know Monday is the heavy day. I have to catch up on not just the weekend but the overseas accounts. Its not as easy as..." He cut it off but she finished the move.

"..As my job? Yes I dont have over seas accounts and only one specific niche, but it's still a job! A job I work hard at!" Her face was a mask of bitterness. The tears still rolled down as she yelled.

"I didnt say that you are putting the wrong words out!" He leaned in like a boxer trying to shorten the distance of the next blow. I am here the first night during a week in years because I love you. Because I put us first. Because I want the best for us! He chose the wrong words, "Its not as easy to get away until now. I have more obligations that are different from yours, and I cant come home or live closer to the house! I got those interns so if something that might of actually been important I can leave work!"

"You can get away as much as you like with Mitzumi..." She knew it was wrong but her anger made her lash out blindly. "You two can get away all you want with your texts!" She slapped the kitchen counter hard!

It was a cheap shot that told Aki she was cornered. "Mitzumi was worried about you! You read the text! She is your friend! What is wrong with you?!" He fired back yelling in her face! It was a bad move. Even though he meant it as a place of concern the tone and yelling twisted it into a dagger he just handed to his wife.

She used it. "HA! How did she know you had two interns? Do you invite Mitzumi over to the office at night? We need to talk? Since when do you and Mitzumi talk? Are you screwing her too? Is that why you are tired?!"

He punched the table hard! "You know its not, stop being stupid! Maybe you're lonely because all you do is fight! I work that job take a hour train and sleep at the office for us! You wanted to live in the country side! You picked the house so far from my work! You bring Mitzumi to Karaoke! You invite her to come and drink at our house! You have a coworker friend! You have the half hour drive to work! You get to relax here instead of at your desk! You are so selfish!" He screamed at her, his love. All the dark resentment came spilling from his lips like a dragons breath!

With that Miku fled into the bed room and slammed the door shut! Collapsing on the bed she cried her mind and soul was a typhon of emotion! Miku screamed into a pillow! She punched and kicked the mattress!

As he slumped against the wall he ran his hand through his black hair. He thought of the saying, "In war there are no winners, only casualties." He never felt like the winner of any of their fights. Because he regretted every fight they ever had. More thunder struck outside. The rain poured down the windows. Aki started making dinner. Half way he picked up the phone and sent a text to Mitzumi, "We need to talk. I need a ride to the train." Aki made rice, vegetables and a side of grilled fish. He hoped the smell would cox his wife from the bedroom. When it was clear she wasn't coming out he got the bed tray and made a nice presentation of it. Aki walked to the door and set it in front. He knocked twice and left the hallway.

Returning to the dinner table he ate alone with a glass of water. After cleaning the kitchen to not add to the possible fight the next day Aki move to the living room. There was a hall closet and a bed sheet for guests. Aki took the sheet and made his way to the sofa. It was late and he still had work in the morning. He dreamed of their wedding day.