The Nature of Love

Tomoaki Kayama is a strikingly handsome and composed professional working for a major corporation. Known for his cool demeanor, he deliberately keeps others at arm's length to protect his own emotions. However, his carefully maintained boundaries are tested when Keiichi Saiki, his exceptionally hardworking and dependable subordinate, suddenly falls ill. Accustomed to seeing the smart and polished Keiichi in top form, Tomoaki is taken aback to discover him completely disheveled and vulnerable. What unfolds later that night irrevocably alters the dynamic between them, transforming their standard workplace relationship into something far more profound. Despite his instinct to remain guarded, Tomoaki finds himself deeply moved by Keiichi’s unwavering devotion. As his subordinate continues to demonstrate genuine care and sincerity, Tomoaki begins to wonder if he might finally be able to lower his emotional defenses and trust someone with his heart. Their evolving connection challenges everything Tomoaki thought he knew about intimacy and vulnerability. This volume also includes three additional standalone stories: Summer Contrail, Weekend Melancholy, and Tyrannical Passion.