Part 3

A week later they stumbled upon each other at the subway. The two of them kept meeting accidentally ever since their first date. That was a big reason why they stopped organizing rendezvous and left everything to fate. It was more exciting that way and fate turned out to be a surprisingly good matchmaker. The only detail they ever discussed were the hotels they'd be staying at, which was more often that not late at night, unless work or prior engagements dictated otherwise. Daisuke's best friend Hiroshi was aware of their affair, but spoke up about it only once. At the end of the day, It was his friend's own life and his own decisions.

This sinful relationship, as many would consider it so, had been going on for several months now. In the beginning Daisuke was extremely reserved, however his demeanor softened significantly once he started developing feelings for Eriko. Now it was like the two of them were on a secret honeymoon, wrapped in a bubble of self-deception and hormones. They really liked each other - that was a fact, but also an escape from reality. It was a matter of time before they'd reach the limit of such an escape.

Eriko had never met or seen Daisuke's wife and that was for the best. That would ruin her illusion of balance. She never asked; she didn't need to know. It was for the best for both of them.

"What's this?", Eriko asked once Daisuke handed her a colourful package.

"A small gift."

"But didn't we agree not to…"

"No gifts, I know. This is just something simple they gave all of us. Don't worry about it.

Eriko took the wrapping off; inside lay a copy of the manga whose anime adaptation Daisuke had been working on as of late. She quickly opened it on the first page and, as presumed, there it was - the author's signature along with a short message.

"This…it's actually a very big deal!", Eriko protested barely holding her tears back.

They'd made a promise not to exchange gifts, because that could potentially complicate things, but how could she possibly resist such a gesture?

"I was sure you'd be pleased.", Daisuke gave her a warm smile.

"You bet! Can't wait to read it and find a good spot to display it!"

Daisuke thought about how cute she looked in her childlike happiness. Wasn't a good idea to pay as much attention to such details, though. Especially here - in the hotel of sinners.