Original subtitles

A Shochiku Production

Battle of Roses [Bara Kassen]

CAST

Kuniko Miyake, Setsuko Wakayama Yoko Katsuragi

Koji Tsuruta, Toru Abe, Mitsuo Nagata

Eitaro Shindo, Yoko Wakasugi, Michio Hino, Shiro Ozaki

Directed by: Mikio Naruse

Well, sorry I'm late. Shall we go?

Mr. Mogi.

We can't talk here. Come in.

I thought you wouldn't come. - Where are we going?

I suppose you know that we're having problems at work.

What do you mean?

Doesn't your sister told you anything?

What? Mogi is back?

This is a bad time to be sick.

I am weak and they accuse me of embezzlement.

We should make sure that our accounts are resolved.

Bad luck never comes alone.

Chisuzu, has Hinako returned?

No, not yet.

Lily Cosmetics Company

A present from Osaka.

Incriminatory Evidence.

Don't be so serious. Here, have a drink.

What is going to happen?

Well, he's going to stay at least one year in prison.

It's going to be hard for you and your sisters.

When he recovers, I'm sure he will solve everything.

Until then, can you help us?

That's why I wanted to talk with you.

Do you understand?

I'm in love with you for a long time.

That's not fair.

Maybe. But your sister and your brother-in-law are scum.

Talk with Kasahara.

I will talk with Kasahara about that.

Sister, he's in a critical state.

Chisuzu and Hinako, come quickly.

- Is Miss Satomi home? - Yes.

Maki Advocacy Bureau - Attorney Ryosuke Mizuno

How are you doing?

- I'm Masago Satomi. - Pleased to meet you.

I'm sorry for you, Miss Satomi.

Excuse us for not paying your husband's funeral.

Don't worry. He would preffer like this.

Well, I'm also sorry for bringing bad news.

Can I ask why are you here?

Well, you already know what's important.

I am now the legal representant of Lily Cosmetics.

Why did he bring the lawyer?

He can't stand good news...

Mr. Mogi was an enemy of my brother.

So you just thought of a quantity around 780.000 yens, right?

So, what will I do now?

I worked a lot for the sell-off.

You and your lawyer were old friends with my husband.

I'm sure that he's happy watching everything.

But if you can't pay in time,

suppose that you have no intention of doing so.

If that happens, we will bring you to court.

That way, both of you will suffer.

Brother did everything to lead the enterprise. He was wicked.

How dare you insult your deceased brother-in-law?

So, you think they are both innocent?

He insists that we pay 780.000 yens.

What?

That's the amount that he says was embezzled.

I'm alright. I'll fix this.

I'll go out for a bit.

I wonder what she'll do.

Honestly, I think she's better alone.

She'll manage it. You'll see.

Kasahara Residence

I always thought that you're very capable.

So, I will loan you the money you need.

But only if you solve Lily Cosmetics problems.

Yes, sure. But 780.000 is too much.

Believe me, your husband stole much more than that.

Now, you and me will become more intimate.

But I don't want to mix business with obligation.

Therefore , I'm hoping you'll pay with interests. Deal?

Of course.

I preffer it too. That way I can concentrate with business.

Lily's Enemy opens a new enterprise!

Lily Cosmetics loses to Nigera!

Chief-Exectuive Ri threatens Lily!

Lily Cosmetics is defeated by the unstoppable Nigera!

We are against Lily's procedures.

Our business has a totally different concept.

With our creative talent and will to work,

I'm sure that we'll succeed in all our goals.

Hello? Yes, sure.

Excuse me? Oh, Mrs. Satomi?

- Chisuzu, it's for you. - Thank you.

Hello, it's me.

- Masago? - Are you busy?

I'm sorry to bother.

Can you get me the adress of Sonoike from Tokyo Pictures?

You're searching for him? Great.

Of course. Yes.

I fully agree.

Yes?

My name's Satomi.

I'm Ozeki. Nice to meet you.

- Is Mr. Sonoike in? - Enter.

How do you do? I'm Satomi.

I read your letter.

Excuse me if I'm too straightforward.

What do you think about my offer?

Yes. I accept it.

Don't give up so easy. She's not going to pay.

Don't bother with them.

The ex-wife and the con man. He wants a new wife.

Your business skill has left me impressed,

even when you were at Lilly's.

I know that you met my sister, Chisuzu.

Yes, we use her magazine for advertisement.

Really? Thank you.

I wouldn't know what to do if you refused me.

You're one in a million.

Can I be one in a million as well?

He works for me for a long time.

I put my hands on the fire for him too.

He's very honest, but has double personality.

Beauty Parlour Nigera

If you exercise like this for two months,

you'll surely lose weight.

How do you do?

Hi. Welcome.

- Welcome. - Thanks.

I see many familiar faces.

I brought many workers from Lily to here.

Where is the merchandising department?

Mr. Sonoike starts today?

President's Office

How was it?

Yes, we get to know everyone.

Except her, isn't that so?

She's Hinako, my little sister.

She worked at Lily Cosmetics but now she's with us.

Sonoike. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Ozeki. How do you do?

Hello, Mr. Sonoike.

Hi, Chisuzu. I work here now.

Now she has nothing to fear.

Work hard at advertisement.

She hasn't changed a bit.

Mr. Ozeki, you too?

Yes. I'm one in a million.

What does that mean?

This is the perfect time.

I'm going to dinner with Mr. Sonoike tonight.

Let's go all.

You too are invited, Chisuzu.

Welcome home.

Masago will be late.

You seemed meticulous.

Because of Sonoike?

Don't be unpleasant, Chisuzu.

What's your first impression?

He seems nice.

Remember the fat man we saw at the restaurant?

Mr. Kasahara?

I bet he's Masago's benefactor.

I would have never guessed.

Where did they go, after?

How interesting...

You shouldn't say that. Poor brother-in-law.

But since he died, sister seems much younger.

She's making her outmost.

I want to be free.

And know everything about life.

Sister, I'm thinking to leave home.

- Are you sure? - Yes.

It will cost less if we change the poster's format.

It'll be tough.

It'll encourage the readers to lose weight.

I need your signature.

Done.

There's a premiere this afternoon. Would you like to come?

Let's invite Chisuzu too.

I'm going to call her.

"Mark's Story" 2 P.M

Chisuzu is late.

What could've happened? Sorry.

Don't be sorry.

Do you watch many movies, Hinako?

Not that often. From time to time.

I cry easily and Chisuzu always makes fun of me.

I knew that you're here.

What do you want?

Ozeki said that you were here.

Are you drinking tea?

Then, I want chocolate.

I used to drink tea with you before going to the cinema.

I think I'm going.

Me too.

Are you leaving me here alone?

Now I understand.

What do you mean?

I was once your wife, you know?

I know what's your type of woman.

Hello?

No, I can't.

But you promised me.

I will wait for you, then.

Meet me at the Hibaya library. 6.30 P.M, ok?

Let's drink tea together.

- What do you want? - Coffee, please.

Two coffees.

How come Hinako's not here?

Well, why didn't you come?

I was busy with something.

Do you know Mr. Ejima from "Fashion and Films" magazine?

Yes, I do. Why do you ask?

I'm going to marry him.

- Really? - Yes

- Your sisters know about this? - I'm trying to hide it from them.

But I don't need their premission.

So, you love him?

I began loving him about six months ago.

But it wasn't enough to marry him.

It's a business question.

- Business? - Yes.

He proposed to me, so I will take advantage.

My words would hurt you.

But you kept your promise and came.

I'm here to cancel that promise.

That's mean.

It was a promise.

Did you kept your promise?

I did. I gave you all those documents.

If Satomi hadn't die so suddenly...

You're lying.

What Lily has done us after his death was your work.

No, you're misunderstanding.

I reduced the due amount because you're my friend.

I don't believe that.

If I was such a bad fella, I wouldn't had let you go with those documents.

I really love you.

After the death of my wife, Satomi said that I should marry you.

Then we had a fight and she forgot that proposal.

You must be hungry.

No. To be honest, I should go.

When can we meet again?

Only that makes me go on.

- I will take you home. - No, thanks.

Don't be like that.

How long will it take?

Just a little bit more.

Here you have the keys of the tobaco store.

But don't bring them home.

- See you. - See you.

- Still there? - Everybody's gone.

Wait for me.

Chisuzu, have you decided?

Yes, for a long time.

I thought it over.

If I rent an apartment I'll not give you the key.

We'll live separately. I'll never impose on you.

It's better like this, right?

But will you be happy?

I don't want you to meddle in my life.

I'll be an odd husband.

That's ridiculous.

Men only want to stay in a superior position.

That's not it. Would you feel safe like that?

I think so. And you?

I think that...

I will phone you later.

Welcome home.

- Welcome home. - Hinako.

Come to my room.

I just saw someone outside.

It was Mr. Mogi from Lily Cosmetics.

Weird, don't you think? Why are you seeing him?

He is our sworn enemy.

I was foolish.

Lily Cosmetics

He lost it and left it on the garbage.

I bet he's happy, now.

They stole 780.000 from me, but I still founded Nigera.

Finally, I fulfilled my husband's wishes.

I never thought that you would sacrifice yourself like this.

There was nothing between us.

How can I trust you?

Kanebo Cosmetics

Nigera Cosmetics

Lily Cosmetics

Nigera Cosmetics

Nigera Cosmetics

Nigera Cosmetics

You always worked hard ever since I was at Lily.

Not at all. I did very little.

Mr. Hinatsu, do you have a girlfriend?

No.

Why don't you marry Hinako?

Miss Hinako?

She is very different from me and Chisuzu.

She will be a great wife.

That's a big decision. Give me some more days.

Sure.

Hinatsu, what happened?

Why are you smiling so much?

Did you agree with Masago's proposal?

I still haven't answered him.

Do you think you'll be happy with Mr. Hinatsu?

I don't know. Who knows.

But you don't even know if Hinatsu loves you or not.

In his position, marrying with you is better,

than being promoted to manager.

That's insulting for him.

Here you go again.

Always thinking of others first.

That thing with Mr. Mogi didn't help.

Who told you about him?

I heard everything about you two.

Compare it to a bite of a poisonous insect.

You don't understand.

It doesn't make a difference to me.

I refuse to be a victim. That's it.

Masago sees us only as her toys for her business.

I decide i'm leaving home.

- I'm going to marry. - Really?

I love him.

But I don't know if he's the right one for me.

I will hire an apartment and we'll do a test.

Sister will never allow such a thing.

She can't decide for me. It's my life.

I've had enough.

Masago will try to marry me to someone from Nigera, after all.

If it was Sonoike, I would gladly accept it.

I know.

Why don't you talk to him?

I couldn't do that.

If he's brave enough, he'll help you out.

- That's good. - I will leave it to you.

- Hello. - Hello.

Are you coming to the party tonight?

Of course. Why?

Are you planning to court Hinako?

Hinako is like a doll.

Her happiness only depends on whomever grabs her first.

Why are you saying this?

You're being cruel.

It's still not too late.

Win her heart and elope with her.

Thank you.

I work with you for two years.

I'm sorry we didn't spend more time together.

It's really strange.

I understand why women bow down to men.

Women were made to depend upon men.

Is that the physical aspect?

Men only want to hang on to women.

But I hate it.

So, aren't you happy now?

Am I?

I thought that marriage would be far more exciting and scary.

You need to love me more.

I'll do my best.

You don't need. I'm happy as it is.

I don't believe that we got married.

Everything is easier with excessive happiness.

Stay the night with me.

No. We will break our pact.

I will never sleep here.

My uncle is very strict.

I will not be able to sleep tonight.

No. I don't want it to become an habit.

Only tonight. It's special.

We can meet tomorrow. You're not like this.

You betrayed me and ran away with him.

I thought I loved him.

I never was very good at guessing the future.

So, I always commit fatal mistakes.

Well, can't be helped now.

Is it late for forgivness?

Can you forgive me?

That's not the question. It's all over.

I don't love you anymore.

Nigera Monthly Issue

Making it a magazine was a good job.

We will save a a lot of money this way.

Hello? Satomi speaking.

Mr. Kojima? One moment, please.

- I will not bother. - Thank you.

I can't, I have to go to the factory in a while.

Really? In that case, come to my house at 7 P.M.

You naughty boy.

I can only forget business when I'm with you.

And that Kasahara guy? How's it going?

If I hadn't met him probably I would be his lover by now

He's another guy who only wants me for my body.

Kojima, why don't you work for me?

If we work together, our relation will change.

Of course. I would be your boss.

If that guy wasn't there, maybe I'd consider work for you.

You'll be, right?

Would you be my bodyguard?

Chisuzu.

Good-night.

What a surprise.

I came to pick up some clothes.

Let me introduce you my friend, Mr. Kojima.

She's my sister, Chisuzu.

Come join us.

Thank you. But I'm in a hurry.

If you need anything, just ask me.

Thank you, but I'm fine.

How's life? Aren't you feeling lonely?

Ever since you two left, I feel lonely.

I have no one to talk.

What's your relation with Mr. Kojima?

We'll go to the Noh theater.

So you like Noh?

Not really. But Kasahara sometimes takes me there.

Shouldn't you be with your guest?

Chisuzu, Mr. Sonoike is a great man.

- What are you to him? - Why?

I want you to marry a good man.

It's not like I resent Mr. Sonoike,

but I don't want to do what Hinako did.

What do you mean?

I'm off.

You're leaving?

Yes. I'm in the way. Bye.

Oh, you're here ?

I am tired of waiting.

But we didn't had a date.

But I'm happy. It's good to see you.

To be honest, I came to ask you a favor.

What is it?

Debt 10.000 Yens

I'm needing money badly.

That's a small fortune.

Even if you don't have it, you can get it through Nigera.

I really need it. You're the only I can trust.

I'm begging you.

I don't want to ask Masago.

That's why I'm living like this.

Do me that favor. I really need that amount.

I'll pay you next month.

Look, in the beggining, we promised

that we would be independent from eachother, right?

You're so cold.

You don't even help me when I'm needing.

I'm not a toy, you know?

How can you say that?

Because you're indiferent.

My problems should be yours too.

I understand.

I just didn't want money problems in our relationship.

I was hoping you'd take serious our financial independence.

You say that our marriage is a test, but our love isn't.

It's obvious that you don't love me as much as I thought.

I feel terrible.

But if I lend you the money I'll prove my love?

Love is love, money is money.

You're being so egoistic by drawing that line.

That's all I've got.

Thank you.

Excuse my rudeness,

but give me something that's worth 5.000 yens and I'll sell it.

I'll pay.

I know that you'd help me, no matter what.

- Right? - No. Get your hands off me.

Hello.

It's been a long time.

Hi, Chisuzu. Glad you came.

- I don't have much time. - Come in, let's talk.

How's your married life?

I try hard.

I knew you'd be like that.

What's Mr. Hinatsu like as a husband?

I can't compare. But he treats me nice.

Of course.

You're Masago's sister. And she's still the boss.

How are you, Chisuzu?

We fight sometimes.

The other day he discovered that I went dancing with a coleague.

- Did you ask for forgivness? - Never. I did nothing wrong.

Did you argue because of that?

But men tend to please women once they upset them.

Is that true?

Try to fight with your husband.

I'm going to watch a premiere at 2 P.M.

Why don't you come with me?

I don't know.

Go out once in a while.

Mr. Sonoike might be there.

Enter.

Excuse me for being late. This comes from the Osaka branch.

From Fukuoka and Sapporo.

- I will check it later. - Okay.

Mr. Hinatsu

How's Hinako doing?

She's very good.

She's shy, not like Chisuzu.

But can you let her go outside sometimes?

- Of course. - Thank you.

I'm happy that you're here.

You must get bored at home all the time.

I do.

I will call you when the next movie is showing.

Thank you.

Mr. Sonoike, don't seduce her. She's married now.

Please!

Kataoka, the auditor wants to resign.

Mr. Kataoka?

- Any complaints? - He has been enticed.

By whom?

Another Cosmetics company.

That's not good.

So...

Do we have a good substitute?

How about Hinatsu?

No, not him. He's my relative. It'll seem he took advantage.

You're imagining things.

Our auditor must be someone acknowledged.

But I have someone in mind.

Does he have experience?

No, but he's honest and comes from good backgrounds.

You didn't know?

Hinako is with Sonoike?

I'm impressed with how much you trust your wife.

Hinatsu, come with me.

You shouldn't invite me to such a place.

Mogi always brought me here when I worked for Lily.

I'm telling your wife. Or is it for spite ?

Not at all. I need to talk with you.

Don't tease me. Just talk.

Nigera wants new distributors in Ginza and Shinjuku.

I think you could administrate one of them.

That's too good to be true.

Well, I'm trying to make you happy.

I'm happy if it's true.

I don't want to end as a secretary all my life.

If everything goes as planned, I will give discounts for you.

When you start, you can leave Nigera and become independent.

Are you serious?

But this is entirely confidential.

If they discover, I'll be fired.

Dear Kiyo.

All I want is some security.

I can cheat on your wife.

She's a cold doll.

She never laughs loud.

I shouldn't say this, but she loved Sonoike.

Do you still love her?

No, I don't.

- Does Mr. Mogi comes often? - No, not often.

I only saw him twice.

Was he alone?

No, with a beautiful woman. Business stuff, I think.

A beautiful woman? I wonder who that is.

I bet it was you.

Don't be silly. Maybe it was Urara, the model.

- Your bath is ready. - Thank you.

Welcome home.

Bring me some water.

You drank too much.

Ask Masago the reason why I drink.

Work problems?

I never got promoted because I am your husband.

Isn't that right?

I'm not secretive like you are.

I worked hard for Nigera Cosmetics.

I did it out of respect for Satomi's kindness.

My manager appreciated my work and recommended my promotion.

But Masago refused and brought someone unknown.

It isn't fair. Don't you agree?

I don't know anything about business.

It doesn't matter if I can't be promoted to chief.

I'm happy for being your husband.

What's wrong?

I'm sorry. Lately, I don't feel very well.

You just don't want to make love to me.

However, you go with Sonoike to the cinema.

Chisuzu invited me.

I don't know what's wrong with you and your sisters.

I'm just an idiot. A stupid man.

Hello!

- Are you Chisuzu Satomi? - Yes.

I'm coming in, then.

Who are you?

How convenient! Such a good apartment like this.

With doors closed, you can do everything.

What do you want?

I think you're a lucky woman.

Your sister owns Nigera Cosmetics.

You can spend all the money you want.

Get out or I'll force you.

You were very nice with Ejima.

According to my source, he's your gigolo.

I thought that men were the only ones who wanted to own women.

But even young women have their personal toys.

How dare you?

Ejima himself admited. There's no need to hide.

Who are you?

Me? I'm his legal wife.

His wife?

What a joke!

The joke's on you, miss.

A gigolo and his client. You make me laugh.

I didn't mean that.

A test marriage, he said?

I would like to hear more about your relationship.

Don't take me wrong.

I'm not accusing you of stealing my husband.

I'm only assuming that you're going to pay.

That way I'll not bother you nor my husband.

You two fooled me.

It took time for him to confess about you.

But I found a receipt of your kimono.

He had to confess everything.

My older son is sick at the hospital.

Ejima doesn't give me any money.

But I need it.

What do you want from me?

I hate to ask, but I need your help.

I will not see Ejima ever again.

What do you want from me?

I'm not asking much.

10.000 yens would be enough.

He's still inexperienced in the field.

So please teach him.

Nice to meet you.

This way.

He's her lover. I'm sure.

Don't be silly. Let's eat.

Hello.

What is it? You're palid.

I'm not feeling good, today.

The new auditor is a bastard.

I was surprised with his age.

But, what she says is the law.

I lost all ambition.

Cheer up. Your future is safe here.

What happened with that new stores plan?

Chief is still considering it.

I never thought that Ejima was such a bad guy.

His wife could be responsible.

She took all my money. Now, I'm broke.

Forget about the money.

You lost something much more important.

You mean my virginity?

No, I don't regret it.

Because, after all, I loved him.

But you only experienced the dark side of love.

No, it was a marriage.

It was surely strange but it was a real marriage to me.

Otherwise, how could you explain what I did?

But marriage should be a sign of security and peace.

That's how it should be.

I'm not God, I would never know that he had wife and kids.

Anyway, you learned with this.

I did.

Sonoike, what is your ex-wife's job.

It seems she works in some bar.

You don't want to reattach with her?

Why do you ask?

Well, I just...

Beer, please.

Hinatsu. Do you want to join me?

Long time no see.

One more glass.

Nigera is doing great lately.

Wasting money with publicity.

How much do they pay Sonoike?

If Sonoike gets fired, you'd be safe your whole life.

Are you being cynical?

Not at all. To be honest, I envy you.

How's Hinako... i'm sorry, she's your wife.

I really envy you.

You're the luckiest man in the world.

Whereas, I lost my wife a year ago.

I feel so alone.

Don't trick me, Mogi.

I know everything.

About what?

You went to a hotel, right?

No, Hinatsu. I only...

You're not getting out of it. I heard it all.

Excuse me. I was not aware.

I never thought that Hinako would end up marrying you.

What?

Bringing her there wasn't adultery.

Tell me the truth! What happened there?

Damn!

Stop, Hinatsu. Calm yourself.

I wanted to marry Hinako. I just...

Curse you!

- Your bath is ready. - I'm not going.

But I prepared it for you.

- So, go yourself. - It's too late.

- Do as I say. - Yes, dear.

"Mr. Mogi? He was here with a beautiful woman."

"Bringing her there can't be considered adultery."

"I think she loved Sonoike."

It's good, darling. I don't need more heat.

Darling!

Darling!

Darling!

Unlock the door.

Darling!

Darling! Unlock the door.

Darling! Unlock the door.

Darling!

Darling!

Darling!

Darling!

Hinako.

Hinako!

You're much better, Hinako.

How long are you here? Almost a month?

Almost three months.

But they seem six months.

What's wrong, after all?

I'm just a bit stressed out.

The worst part is that I lost the baby.

Did you know you were pregnant?

Of course.

Did Hinatsu hit you?

No, I felt on the bath.

Really?

More flowers to the lady.

Thank you.

From whom?

I really don't know.

- Can you guess? - No.

How's work at Nigera?

Well, how shall I know...?

You know about the new auditor?

Yes. Mr. Kojima?

She's Masago's lover.

There's a lot of sneaky rats, right?

- What do you mean? - Burglars.

Look at this.

These products were sent without your seal.

Hinatsu did it.

It started one month ago.

He doesn't have authority for that.

I was new here, so I never said anything in the begining.

But I watched Hinatsu closely.

There are other workers with him.

Don't scare me.

I feel so insecure these days.

- Come in. - Can I?

- Mr. Ozeki. - Yes?

- Tell Sonoike to come here. - Yes, ma'am.

- And the sales manager. - Sure.

We shall be careful.

Tell them that we're going to marry.

No, not yet.

Sooner or later, they will all know about us.

By the way, I heard that Hinatsu has a lover.

Miss. Yamashita from sales dep.

- Yamashita? - Yes.

Who told you?

A girl that works with her.

What are you looking at? Get out!

When are the stores going to open?

According to you, everything's ready.

Was that a lie?

It's not a lie. But...

But what?

Don't tell me it's not going to happen.

I made serious mistakes at work.

So what?

Your wife is the sister of the boss.

You're someone special.

But I reached my limit.

Listen, Daisuke Hinatsu.

What will you do for me?

How can you pay me now?

I was anxious to be successful.

Don't make me laugh.

You always were a useless bastard.

Don't underestimate yourself.

You're lively today.

I would love to go out and get drunk.

Stupid! Can't you see I'm desperate?

I'm not a child.

You're not going to cheat me.

Now, I can't do anything right.

Worst case scenario, I could even be fired.

What will happen to me, then?

I see.

I will follow you to the gates of hell.

But let Sonoike stay with that damned wife of yours.

Transfer Notice to Sapporo branch.

You'll return to the head office in some years.

I'm sorry to have caused you so many problems.

Work hard to erase this stain in your career.

They're pretty.

I wonder who sent them?

Stop talking nonsense.

It's time to go.

I appreciate your visit.

It's nothing. Take care.

- See you! - See you!

Hello.

She seems to be recovered. I'm so happy.

- Thank you. - See you.

What's wrong? You seem worried.

Hinako.

I will be transfered to Sapporo.

You'll come with me, right?

Why don't you answer me?

What's the reason for your transfer?

You don't need to know. I asked if you'll go with me.

I know. Since the beginning, I knew you'd not come.

Who the hell is sending you flowers everyday?

- It's him. - Whom are you referring to?

Don't play innocent. Sonoike, of course.

You don't know his true self.

He pretends to be respectable but he's like a playboy.

He had many women.

And he divorced because of an indiscretion.

- How do you know that? - Everybody knows.

No, it's not true.

You get so nervous when I talk about him.

It's not by chance that I suspect of you two.

Then, why are you asking me to go to Hokkaido with you?

How dare you say that?

You're my wife.

Yes, the wife that you tried to murder in the bathroom.

I never wanted...

Yes, you did! You're a terrible man.

Hinako, I'm sorry if I made mistakes.

Please, come to Sapporo with me.

I wouldn't stand being there alone.

I beg you.

Please, forget about the past.

I worked very hard to start anew.

What do you want?

I'm sorry to bother you, but I have something to show you.

Please, look at this.

The lives of Nigera's sisters (Sex, money and power)

What will you do about this?

I know the guy who wrote it.

I'm affraid if this gets published.

I offer my services to end this matter.

Are you saying that you want money?

Yes, it's not a big sum.

It's just a simple case of gossip.

How much?

30 big notes.

You mean, 30.000 yens ?

It's a modest quantity. It's nothing for you.

Ask Kasahara, he'll give you more.

But these rumours are a bit stale.

Don't be mad.

If you know who I am, you'd pay immediately.

And, who are you?

Forget it.

If you really want to know, ask Chisuzu.

Chisuzu?

Consider it as part of your advertisment budget.

I was outside and heard everything.

You're not the type of guy who blackmails.

Stay out of it.

Please, forgive him, boss.

Shut up and go away.

This will only be added to your misery.

Get out.

Go away.

If you come back, I'll call the police.

Be carefull.

You'll pay for this.

- He's gone. - You'll be alright ?

Of course.

There's no point in paying him. He would come back.

This is bad. What shall I do now?

Please, take a look at this.

Mr. Sonoike, do you despise me?

Why would I?

It's unfortunate to be a woman.

By the way, he mentioned Chisuzu.

Do you know what he meant?

They both are cinema lovers, so they know eachother.

I hope it's only that.

Where did he get this information?

This is not a warning, but you better watch out.

That's it. If you excuse me.

See you later.

Thank you.

Take a look at this.

You haven't changed one bit, Chisuzu.

Really?

You're not even depressed.

And you? Did you get stronger?

I don't know, but I'm not as weak as I was.

Are you going to divorce him?

I still haven't decided.

But he lives in Hokkaido with Yamashita.

You should go out more.

I have to go to the office later.

Good idea. I'll thank everyone for the support.

Let's go together.

Hello.

Thank you for your visit.

No. I went together with Sonoike.

He's with your sister.

Can you keep watch over Hibiya facilities?

Okay. We need actors and an experienced orchestra.

But we can't legitimize such an expense.

We can. I'm going to withdraw the money outside.

Outside?

You can start the preparation.

Certainly.

- Have a sit. - Thank you.

So, it was Sonoike who sent me the flowers?

Don't say I told you. He will be upset.

- Hey. You seem better. - I am, and you?

It's good to see you.

Thank you for the flowers.

- Any news from Hinatsu? - No.

- It's hot today. - Sure. Too hot indeed.

Can you bring us something to drink?

Not for me. I must go.

Really? Then we can go together.

- Finish this for me. - Okay.

- See you. - Bye.

This'll cost you a beer.

Take care.

I see. So, you're going to Hokkaido.

I still have to solve things with him.

Someone told me that he's living with a woman.

So, you know it all.

I don't know how to deal with this situation.

Mr. Sonoike, tell me what to do.

I'll follow your advice when I go there.

At the moment, I can't give good advices.

My mind is filled with impurities.

It constrasts with your innate purity.

Both have their validity.

So, I can choose which to follow.

That's mean. What shall I do, now?

To be honest, Masago manipulated you.

It was that which made Hinatsu so angry.

I tried to make everyone happy by suffocating my own feelings.

But in the end, they all got sad.

You should confront him. Do what your heart says.

If he loves you more than himself, it'll be easy to decide.

Then, I must do what my heart tells me?

Of course.

- Hello. - Hello, Chisuzu.

Is Hinako still there?

- She just left with Sonoike. - Oh yes?

Shall we drink a tea?

- Tea? - Yes, I'll pay.

No, thanks, someone is going to treat me to some beer.

Brewery Asahi Hall

I'm disappointed with Nigera. It has no future.

Why is that?

I don't know, but...

I think you underestimated Masago.

That woman's no good.

She has her strong points, I confess.

She's tough too and will do everything for success.

But I question her methods.

I know it's not my business, but...

Alright, that's enough.

I'm sorry I brought you to Nigera.

No, it's not that.

I'm one in a million, right?

But you shouldn't have regrets in working for Nigera, right?

Because you met the girl of your dreams.

- Let's do our best. - Sure thing.

Hinako came back home.

We can't meet so often here like before.

Are you trying to get rid of me?

Show a bit more consideration.

I'm going to talk with Kasahara.

Is that a threat?

I know that you were with him.

I did that so I could get more funds.

So, you refuse to leave him?

To me, he's just a simple business mentor.

You're a naughty auditor, isn't it?

You're not fooling me anymore. I'm not your little toy.

I thought you were more clever than that.

I told my father about you.

At the moment, business comes first.

- Mr. Sonoike? - Hi, Chisuzu.

I was waiting for you.

What's wrong? It's very late.

Ejima came to see me.

He did?

Does he want more money?

He divorced. But he begged me to come back to him.

I bet his wife ditched him.

And?

He wasn't leaving so I ran away.

Nevertheless, come in.

Ejima is a lost case. You've had enough, no?

Yes, but I'll not give up love.

I already have someone in mind.

Leave your apartment and return to Masago.

Not a chance. I'll never come back to her.

At least, tonight.

I'll stay here. I don't have anywhere to go.

But you can't. I only have one bed.

I'll take you to Masago's.

Never. I even preffer to go back to my old apartment.

Alright, then. You can stay here.

Can I?

I'll go to my friend's house.

- I'll call him, now. - Meanie!

I'm going home.

Where's that?

Please, Mr. Sonoike. Don't leave me here alone.

Nigera

- Take it. - Thank you.

- Can I see it? - What for?

It's about Nigera, isn't it?

The Boss' Immoral Life. The story of the handsome adv. manager.

Curses!

I never thought he'd do it.

Who? It seems very interesting.

I would love to read it.

Can't you take advantage from it?

Now it's your time to show your talent as a manager.

Don't be so serious.

The three of us always think: "Sonoike is so special".

How can you be so cruel?

I never thought you'd be so insensitive.

Can't you understand that this can be poor Masago's ruin?

It was her who's responsible for your success.

Do you know who wrote that?

No. Who was it?

Ejima. He's the author.

Ejima?

- Don't read garbage. - But it's very interesting.

There was a lot that even I didn't know.

I know who wrote that.

- Ejima, right? - Not him.

- It was Mogi. - Yes, of course.

Ejima is a nasty guy, though.

How's our workers doing?

Everyone's depressed.

Kasahara has called Masago. She start panicking.

I guess it's the end.

Yes, even without truce.

Hey, Chisuzu. What happened?

What's wrong?

I stayed at Sonoike for the night.

Are you surprised?

In the morning, we had breakfast together.

I prepared it for him.

Then, I'll hand him the newspaper.

It seemed like I was his housewife.

He would be a charming husband.

What's wrong?

Sonoike is a good man.

I'm sure he'll support you.

I'm sorry, Hinako.

- I'm such a wicked person. - No, you're not.

I hope you two find happiness.

- I will be very happy for you. - No, it's not that.

Do not worry. I will talk to him about you.

Don't tell me you still don't know it?

The Boss' Immoral Life.

Chisuzu.

The situation is horrible.

- Please, collect all unpaid invoices, now. - Certainly.

Kojima still hasn't appeared.

He will never return.

Forget him. I know you can do it.

I will be at home. Call me, if it's urgent.

Sure.

- Welcome home. You're early.

Are you going out?

I'm going to see Hinatsu.

- In Hokkaido? - Yes.

I want to settle everything.

You don't need to go so far.

Why not?

What kind of excuses could he have?

Just divorce him already.

But I want to see him, before I take that decision.

If he refuses to divorce, you'll stay with him?

I'll only know when I see him.

Maybe you're knowing it already. I'm almost hitting bankruptcy.

Because of that, you haven't any obligation to Hinatsu.

I understand. But I want to go, all the same.

Do you still love that good for nothing?

You're forgetting that you made me accept his proposal.

I used to follow all your orders.

However, if I keep going like this I'll only break my heart.

Ever since I married him, my life has been hard.

But not anymore.

I want to be sure that my life will be happy after the divorce.

If he loves Yamashita, I want them to be happy.

I understand Hinako.

I was wrong.

If you really want to see him, go ahead.

But if it fails, you'll always be welcome here.

Okay.

I'm thinking about opening a little store.

Come in.

- Oh, Hinako. - Are you working?

I can't go to the office without being mocked by everyone.

- I'm going to Hokkaido. - But, you'll come back?

- I don't know. - But why?

I planned to go see Sonoike after parting.

But I can't get in the way of you two.

Getting in the way?

I'm sorry. I'm very focused on my problems.

You mean what I was saying in the morning?

That was a lie. It was all invented.

I was only testing you.

Yes, I slept on his house. But nothing happened.

Have you decided to go to Hokkaido because of that?

Forgive me. I love Mr. Sonoike.

But it's the same thing as my love for a cinema star.

If you're going to Hokkaido because of that, don't go.

I have to speak with Hinatsu at least once.

Good. You have to renew your life.

- Sonoike will be happy. - Forget him.

He suffered enough with our family.

No. He still has a crush on you.

Chisuzu, do me a favor.

Go back home.

When you left, you had your freedom.

And Masago learned her lesson.

Chisuzu.

What's wrong? You're soaked.

I'm sorry, sister.

Dry yourself up. You'll catch a cold.

Are you still mad at me?

"What's passed is past."

I was responsible too.

- Can I return home? - Of course you can.

After all, this is your house.

- Hinako went to Hokkaido. - Yes.

Did you know?

I called Sonoike to go see her.

Sonoike?

Chisuzu told me everything.

- Thank you for coming. - Take care.

Much appreciated.

Is that all?

I thought you were in love with him.

I feel sorry for Hinako.

We all made mistakes. Myself, most of all.

Let's start anew, now.

- Will Hinako come back? - I'm certain that she is.

I hope so.

It stopped raining.

Oh, the moon showed up.

Translation by: Kagetsuhisoka

THE END