The next morning Michiru opts to cheat a little and work from home instead of going into the office. She is well aware that this decision will likely lend itself to scandalous rumours in the Post gossip mill, but the reality is that she needs some privacy to catch up on her assignments and contemplate her current circumstances.

The first thing she takes care of is touching base with her superior. Calling the number by memory, she gives an update on the situation and asks how to proceed. "I sense that there's a lot more to this story than I've been told, and the best way to get to the bottom of the situation might be from the inside," Michiru concludes, waiting for instructions.

"I think you're on the right track," her boss responds. "But try to play it out further before you commit. You may be able to gain more insight without agreeing to all of the terms that Tenoh has proposed. We don't want anything to interfere with your position at the newspaper."

"Hai," Michiru agrees. "I'll keep you in the loop." Satisfied with the provided directions, the young reporter spends the rest of the morning drafting "Inside the World of Haruka Tenoh: Part 1", and emails it to Setsuna. So far the piece sounded more like an endorsement of Haruka's rich and fabulous lifestyle than anything else, and Michiru wonders whether she might as well work for Tenoh Motors after all and earn three times the salary.

Hearing her cell phone ring, Michiru sees that it is the number for the Post and is surprised that Setsuna is already ready to give her feedback about her piece. However, instead of hearing her editor's voice, Michiru finds herself listening to the husky tone of one Haruka Tenoh.

"I was trying to reach you at your desk, but a little bird told me that you're working from home and kindly transferred my call," the CEO explained by way of greeting.

"Hmm, I'm putting a reminder in my calendar to punish Mina tomorrow for indulging your stalker tendencies," Michiru replies, only half joking.

"Darling, why don't you leave the punishing to me. You know I'm good at it."

Michiru can't hold back her smile. "If you're just calling to flirt, then I have to tell you that I'm a very busy and important person. Please disturb me another time, preferably over lobster."

Laughing, Haruka admonishes Michiru for her expensive tastes. "Just a few dates with me and you're already raising the stakes to lobster dinner, eh? What next? Want me to get you a new laptop? New car?"

"A Macbook and an Audi R8 would be nice..." the reporter teases.

"Tell you what. You come work for my company, and I'll throw in a laptop and one of our company's sports cars. On loan."

Michiru sighs in frustration. "Are you really starting this up again, Haruka?"

"Maybe. But I'm raising the stakes on my end too. Why don't you come for another tour of Tenoh Motors, and then make up your mind?"

"Fine. When?"

"Oh good, you're learning not to argue with me. The tour will be from Wednesday morning until Thursday evening."

"Two days for a 'tour', Haruka? Can you be any more transparent?" Michiru feels her eyes rolling as she calls the blonde out on her plan.

"You have no faith, Michiru, no faith at all. Clear your calendar, and have your bags packed."

"Seriously?"

"Seriously. What, did I forget to mention that our other office is in New York City?"