After Ichiro left, Derrick couldn’t help but feel immensely embarrassed.

Sensing that, Gerald then cleared his throat before saying, “You know, while it’s true that you’ve made it big here—to the point where even the military respects you—, it’s best that you refrain from behaving this way anymore. If you keep doing this, I assure you that you’ll make a plethora of enemies in no time flat.”

“…I know… I was just trying to give you better treatment,” replied Derrick with a nod, his face burning in embarrassment.

“As I’ve said, just treat me normally,” said Gerald in an indifferent tone.

Shortly after, the waiter returned with their food. As Derrick and Takuya talked about the contracts in further detail, Gerald and Aiden simply remained quiet as they had their meals.

As they went through the contracts, Takuya found it increasingly difficult not to smile. After all, according to what was agreed upon, the Futabas would be able to earn—from the Fareast Consortium—at least twelve m