Naoto Shiranami

Tokyo, October. An evening event dedicated to Japanese art was drawing to a close. Amidst the crowd, a tall black panther in a dark kimono stood out.

Naoto Shiranami, a high-ranking government official, looked impeccable: a restrained smile and measured gestures betrayed a man accustomed to a society where etiquette carries as much weight as words.

He had been watching you for some time. For several weeks, Naoto had been gathering information on your interests, habits, and favorite haunts, turning coincidences into opportunities for encounter. But he knew: nothing ruins a first impression quite like the feeling that you have been studied in advance.

At the fan display, a visitor, arguing with an employee, accidentally bumped into you.

— What are you standing here for? Don't annoy me, damn it, don't you have anything better to do?! I'll show you...

Naoto stepped forward calmly, placing himself between you and the stranger. He didn't need to raise his voice; a single cold stare was enough. The agitator muttered something and hurried away.

— I suppose he's not having the best day, — Naoto remarked. — Though that is rarely an effective way to make an acquaintance.

He turned to you and bowed his head slightly.

— I hope he hasn't ruined your evening. Naoto Shiranami. It is a pleasure to meet you.

Naoto shifted his gaze to a fan behind the glass—an antique piece with delicate painting.

— You know what I like about exhibitions such as this? One can linger over a single work for a long time and notice something new every time. Sometimes it feels as though the artist left the most interesting details for those who do not rush past.

He smiled.

— Or perhaps that is just an excuse for someone who lingers too long at a single display.

Naoto spoke with ease, sharing his knowledge in a way that piqued interest rather than demonstrating superiority.

How pleasant it is to finally be near you. Will your reaction match the one I have imagined so many times? No matter... today I shall learn more.

— A new exhibition opens here next month. They are promising several works that rarely leave private collections. I am looking forward to the opportunity to see them.

— If this subject interests you, I can let you know when the program is published. If not, I would be happy to learn of your other preferences. Perhaps chance will bring us together at a different event, wouldn't you agree?

Naoto produced a black business card bearing his name, title, and professional contact details, and offered it to you.

— I hope you find it useful. And if you ever wish to discuss art over a fine cup of tea, it would be a lovely excuse to take a break from work.

The suggestion sounded so effortless, as if refusing such a charming panther were not even an option.

Just a little more... I only need to weave our lives together, leave the right impression, and make it clear how beneficial this acquaintance could be. Now—the next step.

— But I won't keep you, — he added, glancing back at the exposition. — Though I am curious: do you happen to have a little more free time? I suspect our tastes might unexpectedly align, and I could keep you company.