Shadows of Rivalry

Aiko Tanaka's first day at university was a blend of nervous excitement and determination. She stepped into the bustling campus, her heart pounding as she adjusted her backpack and smoothed her skirt. The campus was alive with students hurrying to their classes, and the air buzzed with energy. Aiko, with her radiant smile and kind demeanor, quickly made friends, including a young man named Daichi Fujimoto.

Daichi was from a very wealthy family, owners of a famous restaurant chain in the area. At first, he despised Aiko. She had gotten pregnant in her first year, and he viewed her as irresponsible. However, as they shared classes and worked on group projects, he started to see her in a different light.

**Year One: The Beginning**

"Hey, Aiko," Daichi called out one day after class, jogging to catch up with her. "We have a group project for economics. Wanna team up?"

Aiko turned and smiled warmly. "Sure, Daichi. Who else is in our group?"

"Mai, Satoshi, and Kana," Daichi replied, listing their classmates.

As they worked on their project, Daichi couldn't help but notice Aiko's intelligence. She had a knack for breaking down complex concepts and explaining them in simple terms.

"Aiko, how did you figure out this economic model so quickly?" Satoshi asked, amazed.

Aiko chuckled. "I just found a way to relate it to real-life scenarios. It makes it easier to understand."

Her kindness was evident, too. When Kana struggled with her part of the project, Aiko stayed late to help her.

"Thank you so much, Aiko. I don't know what I would do without you," Kana said, teary-eyed.

"Don't mention it, Kana. We're a team," Aiko replied, giving her a reassuring hug.

As the semester progressed, Daichi found himself drawn to Aiko. Her beauty was undeniable, but it was her kindness and intelligence that made his heart beat faster.

**Year Two: Revelation**

During the second year, Aiko's pregnancy became noticeable. While some whispered behind her back, Daichi stood by her.

One evening, as they walked out of the library, Daichi finally spoke up. "Aiko, you're amazing. Despite everything, you keep going. How do you do it?"

Aiko looked at him, her eyes soft. "I have to, Daichi. For my child. I want to give them the best life possible."

Daichi's admiration for her grew. "You're incredible, Aiko."

**Year Three: Birth and Friendship**

Aiko went into labor during a particularly stressful exam period. Her friends rallied around her, but it was Daichi who drove her to the hospital.

"Hang in there, Aiko," he said, his voice filled with concern.

"You've got this. You're the strongest person I know," Daichi reassured her.

After the baby was born, Daichi was there with Aiko's other friends, marveling at the tiny life.

"She's beautiful, Aiko," Daichi said, smiling down at the newborn.

Aiko looked at him, gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you, Daichi."

**Year Four: Unrequited Love**

By their final year, Daichi had fallen deeply in love with Aiko. He proposed a few times, but she always gently rejected him.

"Aiko, I know you said there's someone else, but I've never seen him," Daichi said one evening, frustration in his voice. "Why won't you give us a chance?"

Aiko sighed. "Daichi, I care about you a lot, but my heart belongs to someone else."

Daichi's heart sank, but he respected her wishes. After graduation, he offered her a job at his family's restaurant, hoping it would bring them closer.

"Aiko, you know you're welcome to work at our restaurant anytime. We could use someone as talented as you," Daichi said, his voice hopeful.

"Thank you, Daichi, but I have my own path to follow," Aiko replied, her resolve firm.

**Present Day: Confrontation**

After that fateful night at Aiko's restaurant, Daichi finally met Yaro, Aiko's man. Standing at 2.3 meters with a muscular build, Yaro was an imposing figure.

"Stay away from Aiko," Yaro growled, his voice low and dangerous. "She's mine."

Daichi, despite his wealthy background, felt a shiver of fear. "I... I understand," he stammered, backing away.

The next day, Daichi discovered that Yaro was a police officer. His fear deepened, and he knew there was nothing he could do.

**Family Discussion**

Daichi's parents, Hiroshi and Noriko Fujimoto, were not pleased.

"So, you've given up on Aiko?" Hiroshi asked, his voice sharp.

"Yes, Father. I can't compete with him. He's... he's a giant," Daichi replied, dejected.

Noriko sighed. "We were hoping you could bring her into our fold. It would have been advantageous."

"I know, Mother. But it's over," Daichi said, his shoulders slumping.

Hiroshi and Noriko exchanged a look. They had a plan, and it didn't involve giving up.

**Plotting Against Aiko**

Later, in private, Hiroshi and Noriko discussed their next move.

"We need to act against Aiko's restaurant. It's affecting our business," Hiroshi said, his tone cold.

"Yes, but we can't touch Yaro. He's a police officer," Noriko replied.

"Then we'll target Aiko. Send some thugs to mess up her restaurant," Hiroshi decided.

**The Incident**

The night was calm at Aiko's restaurant until a group of thugs barged in, causing chaos. However, Yaro's avatars, who protected the restaurant, quickly subdued them. The entire incident was recorded and uploaded by another avatar, spreading like wildfire on the internet.

**Public Response**

The video went viral, and public responses poured in:

1. "Wow, did you see that? Aiko's restaurant is like a fortress!"

2. "Kudos to the police officer who protected them!"

3. "I'm definitely visiting this place. It looks safe and the food must be amazing."

4. "Respect to the owner for standing strong!"

5. "This is the kind of place we need in our community."

**Yaro's Ruthless Pursuit**

After the incident, Yaro was determined to find out who was behind it. He summoned his avatars and gave them clear orders.

"Find out everything about the people behind this attack. Leave no stone unturned," Yaro commanded, his voice steely.

"Yes, sir," the avatars responded in unison, dispersing to gather information.

As they returned with details, Yaro's expression darkened. He was ready to plan his revenge.

**Yaro's Plan**

Yaro sat in his study, his mind racing. He needed to protect Aiko and her restaurant while teaching those responsible a lesson they wouldn't forget. He knew the Fujimoto family was behind the attack, and he wouldn't let them get away with it.

"We'll make them regret ever crossing us," Yaro muttered, a dangerous glint in his eyes.

His avatars stood by, awaiting his orders. The plan was in motion, and Yaro was ready to strike. The next chapter of their story was about to unfold, and it would be one of retribution and justice.