Nanako Ito had something on her mind that she wanted to share with Charlie, but she struggled to find the right words. Instead, she decided to open up about her childhood and personal history.


    Though she was born into a wealthy family, Nanako Ito’s early years were far from joyful. Her mother passed away when she was young, and her father, Yuhiko Ito, never remarried. His absence could not fill the emotional void left by her mother’s death. Yuhiko was often preupied with work, leaving little time to nurture Nanako. His serious demeanor andck of warmth meant that her upbringing was devoid of the affection she needed.


    Nanako’s mother was a beautiful woman who had instilled in her daughter a traditional upbringing. While she was alive, she taught Nanako the arts of tea ceremony, illustration, embroidery, and poetry. Many of the qualities that defined Nanako’s character were gifts from her mother.


    After her mother’s passing, Nanako discovered a passion for martial arts. Training in martial arts allowed her to temporarily escape the sadness of her life. Initially, she practiced as a means of avoidance, but over time, she developed a true love for the discipline.


    Once she finished sharing her story, Nanako turned to Charlie and asked, “Charlie, would you tell me about your childhood?”<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    Charlie offered a bittersweet smile as he replied, “When I was a kid, my life was like two extremes. Up until I was eight, I lived a happy life. My parents were loving, affluent, and I had no worries. But then, tragedy struck when they died unexpectedly. I became an orphan and ended up growing up in an orphanage.”


    “Ah?!” Nanako gasped in surprise, her voice tinged with sympathy. “I’m so sorry, Charlie. I didn’t mean to bring that up…”


    Charlie reassured her with a gentle smile, “It’s alright; there’s no need to apologize.”


    Feeling reflective, Nanako said, “In a way, my childhood was much happier than yours, Charlie. Even though my father is strict and often serious, he does love me deeply, albeit in his own way.”


    With a serious expression, Nanako continued, “Charlie, I know there’s some tension between you and my father. I heard Tanaka mention it before. I pretended not to notice to spare you any embarrassment, but I want you to know that my father isn’t a bad person. If you ever have the chance, I hope you can move past your differences and be friends.”


    Deep down, however, Nanako longed to express that she wished for a deeper connection between Charlie and her father—something akin to a husband-and-wife rtionship. Yet, aware of Charlie’s marriage, she buried those thoughts deep within her heart, never to voice them.


    Charlie, thinking little of it at the moment, nodded and replied, “If the opportunity arises, I will.”


    Nanako’s face lit up with joy. “That’s wonderful! But Charlie, please don’t misunderstand me. I want you and my father to be friends—not because of the $4.5 billion! You should keep that for yourself, not give it to him!”


    Charlie chuckled, “Why are you looking out for him? Four and a half billion dors is a significant amount!”


    Blushing, Nanako replied softly, “It doesn’t matter. You saved my life and helped me heal. Consider that money as a reward from my father to you!”<fn9d4c> ?????? ???? f?ndnovel</fn9d4c>


    Charlieughed heartily, “If your dad hears this, he’ll probably be furious with you!”


    Nanako yfully stuck out her tongue and was about to respond when her phone suddenly vibrated.


    Surprised, she eximed, “It’s sote! Who could be calling me? Could it be the servant who found out I left?”


    She quickly pulled out her phone, her eyes widening in astonishment. “Oh, it’s my father!”