The Matchmaker's Romcom

Elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen stood chatting in the grand hall of a hotel.

It almost looked like a wedding reception.

However, the atmosphere was slightly different. Everyone was trying to make good impressions with practiced smiles. Even at a glance, some people stood out immediately, awkward and stiff.

It was no surprise. How someone behaved at this party could have a significant effect on their future, so being polite was crucial.

That's how it should have been, but . . .

Come on, don't be like that! I just want to talk.

This man's attitude was hardly gentlemanly.

He was young, with dyed brown hair and pierced ears. His brightly colored suit gave off a sleazy host-club vibe as he followed a woman around.

Umm . . . it's just that I'd really like to speak with some other people as well.

The woman's rejection was subtle. She gave a vague smile and tried to slip away.

Maybe he thought he could get his way if he just kept pushing.

Alright then, how about we swap numbers? That's no big deal, right?

The man persisted stubbornly.

No, um . . . that's a bit . . .

The woman maintained her gentle demeanor as she tried to put some distance between them.

But the young man showed no sign of giving up the chase.

I said no, didn't I?!

The crowd nearby that has previously been pleasantly chatting turned to stare at her outburst as she finally lost her patience.

But as soon as they saw the rough-looking man, they quickly looked away to avoid getting involved.

The young man sneered at them and reached out to grab the woman's arm.

Why don't we leave it at that?

A voice called out from behind him.

It's fine to be proactive with women, but don't you think this is a bit too much?

The young man turned around with a sullen expression, visibly taken aback.

Standing there was a man larger than him.

A muscular man in a gray suit commanded the room with his presence, standing over 180 cm tall. He seemed to be in his mid-twenties.

Who the hell are you? Mind your own business!

Despite feeling intimidated, the young man snapped back boldly.

But his opponent remained unshaken, his calm gaze posing a question.

Would he back down quietly, or . . .

. . . I don't give a damn about this woman anyway.

With an irritated click of his tongue, the young man turned away.

As he disappeared from view, the woman he'd been harassing let out a sigh of relief.

Ah, thank you so much! He just wouldn't take a hint!

Well, in places like this, you run into all kinds of people. Best to just forget it and move on.

The tall man chuckled warmly, smiling with genuine kindness.

At this, the woman's cheeks flushed, her gaze intensifying as she swallowed nervously.

Alright then, I'll be on my way.

Ah, um! If it'd be alright, could we maybe talk a bit more?

The woman rushed to offer him her card as he raised his hand to leave.

It was her profile card.

On it were her hobbies and skills to help avoid any awkward silences.

. . . Sorry.

The tall man made a small gesture of apology.

I'm not actually here for the party—

As he spoke, he pulled a business card from his suit pocket.

Entaro Hakujo. I'm a matchmaker with a marriage consultation agency.

This was the venue for a matchmaking party, exclusively for members of marriage consultation agencies and their matchmakers.

Marriage consultation agencies help men and women find partners. The people who work there are called matchmakers. Entaro was one of them, attending the party as a companion to one of the members.

The term 'matchmaker' still often conjures up images of meddling neighborhood aunties, but it is an entirely legitimate profession.

They connect people and earn a fee for their services.

Entaro was one of these professional matchmakers.

So, you're a matchmaker . . .

The woman gave a wry smile, looking slightly disappointed as she stared at the business card, tilting her head.

Have you heard of us? Hakujo Marriage Consulting?

Entaro couldn't help but ask.

Sorry, it's the first I've heard of it.

No, it's okay . . . Don't worry about it.

Entaro chuckled awkwardly, feeling a bit uneasy. As the owner of Hakujo Marriage Consulting and a matchmaker, he had hoped people would recognize his agency.

By the way, which agency are you with?

Entaro regained his composure and asked. The woman smiled proudly.

Kuromine Marriage Planners.

Ah, them . . . They're pretty famous, huh?

Yes. They even have TV commercials and apparently some celebrity clients, too. Plus, being such a big agency gives it a sense of security.

Right, right . . .

She didn't mean anything by it.

Even so, Entaro's lips twisted slightly in discomfort. The words big agency and sense of safety stung a little.

Um . . . thank you so much for earlier. You really saved me!

Sure thing. Good luck with your matchmaking.

As the woman walked away, Entaro waved, his expression turning grim.

The company she mentioned earlier, Kuromine Marriage Planner.

Though they were a leading enterprise in the matchmaking industry, Entaro didn't like them much. He found the company too commercially aggressive.

They air countless TV ads, hold flashy events, and even signed up celebrities as members. Making money wasn't an issue for them, but it felt like they were neglecting the essence of matchmaking.

I've even heard rumors that they discriminate between members based on how much they pay . . .

Deep in thought with a bitter look, Entaro glanced around.

He wondered if his clients were doing well and if, like the woman earlier, they might be harassed by strange men. Or worse, if they were making mistakes of their own.

My, what a stunning beauty.

I had heard rumors, but you truly are gorgeous.

I would love to pursue a relationship with you with marriage in mind.

Suddenly, a thunderous round of praise caught his ear.

His eyes wandered over and saw three men surrounding a woman.

Upon seeing her, Entaro couldn't help but gasp in surprise.

She is really . . .

She was clad in a white dress reminiscent of a wedding gown, her lustrous black hair shimmering under the lights, her posture straight and dignified.

And above all, she was gorgeous . . .

Like fresh snow untouched in a remote mountain, her pure beauty made it hard for him to peel his eyes away.

She was surrounded by men in finely tailored suits, adorned with expensive-looking rings. Even their cufflinks and necktie pins looked pricey.

With a beauty like hers, it's no wonder these attractive men are flocking to her.

To Entaro, these men seemed like prime catches.

The women standing around held profile cards, fidgeting, while the men couldn't take their eyes off her.

How about it, Miss Yui? Would you like to go out sometime?

No, you should join me for dinner instead.

I'll arrange anything you desire.

The men were making fervent advances.

I, well—

The beautiful woman began to speak.

Sensing this, the men immediately looked to gauge her reaction.

Is there something you'd like to do?

Please, tell us anything.

For you, Miss Yui, I'd do anything.

Yet, she remained silent, her gaze downturned.

Maybe she's hoping to swap partners?

That's how it appeared to Entaro.

Let's talk with someone else, shall we?

The man with glasses standing right beside her stepped in, leaving the men who had been eagerly talking to her looking disappointed.

It seemed that he was her matchmaker. He wore stylish glasses, his hair was neatly parted, and he was dressed in a fine quality suit.

We should definitely meet up again.

I'll contact you from my end!

I will surely win your heart!

The men continued their desperate appeals until the very end.

. . .

Finally free, she let out a small sigh of relief.

Despite being sought after by some of the top men at the venue, her expression remained gloomy.

Wonder what's going on . . .

Entaro pondered his options, scratching his head.

What do you think of those men? They're all from respectable backgrounds and seem well-suited for you.

The matchmaker-like man with glasses spoke in a fawning tone.

I don't think they're bad people, but something feels off.

Saying so, she cast her gaze around the party venue.

Men and women of all types were engaging in the ups and downs of matchmaking.

Some were excitedly talking to the opposite sex they were interested in, while others appeared awkward.

While some groups were encouraging each other amongst the same sex, there were also couples blushing and gazing into each other's eyes.

She squinted, as though the sight was too dazzling to look at directly.

Understood. Then, let me introduce you to someone of even higher status.

That's not what I meant.

She shook her head slightly, and her silky black hair swayed.

I want to find someone on my own. There are so many people here after all.

That is not acceptable.

The man in glasses immediately rejected the idea.

You don't know what sort of riffraff could be here. It is my responsibility to carefully select the right match for you.

But . . .

She began to speak, but her eyes faltered under the intense gaze of the man in glasses.

She began to follow as the man led the way.

Leave everything to me. I guarantee you the best marriage.

Alright . . .

While the man in glasses walked with an air of triumph, she dragged her feet heavily.

Her shoulders were slumped in resignation, and passed by Entaro as she followed along.

Shouldn't you let her do as she likes?

Before he knew it, he had spoken out.

His voice rang out clearly, stopping the two in their tracks as they turned toward Entaro.

The beautiful woman widened her eyes in surprise, staring at Entaro for a moment.

After a moment, she seemed to steel herself and opened her mouth.

Who are──

Who the hell are you?

Before she could finish, the man with glasses cut her off and stepped forward before Entaro.

I don't know who you are, but keep your nose out of this.

His tone was far sharper than the one he'd used with the woman.

Frustrated by his arrogant attitude, Entaro snapped back.

I'm a matchmaker. Meddling is part of the job. Why aren't you listening to what this young lady wants? She said she wants to talk to more people, so let her. That's the whole point of a matchmaking party, isn't it?

If you don't know the situation, then stay out of it. I'm finding her a suitable partner.

But from what I've heard, it doesn't sound like you've found her a suitable partner at all. She looks bored out of her mind, doesn't she?

Don't make such absurd accusations, you stray mutt of a matchmaker!

The man in glasses turned back to the woman with an exaggerated shrug, feigning dismay.

As you can see, people like this can slip in from time to time. That's exactly why I must carefully screen your partners beforehand.

B-But . . .

She tried to speak, but her words faltered, and she closed her mouth.

Entaro felt frustrated by her silence.

He wasn't sure why, but he couldn't stand the idea of leaving her to the whims of the man with glasses.

Why don't you join our agency?

Approaching her, Entaro pulled out a business card from the pocket of his suit.

Hey! What do you think you're doing?!

The glasses-wearing man raised his voice, but Entaro handed her the business card regardless.

With us, you can take a more relaxed approach to matchmaking.

I won't allow that!

The man in glasses grabbed Entaro's arm, glaring at him with fury.

Why are you getting so worked up? It's up to her how she wants to handle matchmaking.

This young lady is under the care of Kuromine Marriage Planners. We're responsible for her, so stop meddling.

Ha! I should've known it was Kuromine. Makes sense now. So, the bad rumors were true—I'm amazed you'd ignore your clients' wishes so blatantly.

I'm just selecting suitable partners. That's a matchmaker's job.

If that's the case, then your judgment's off. She doesn't seem happy with the partners you've picked.

What did you just say?!

Entaro pushed past the man in glasses and looked straight at her.

I'm Entaro Hakujo from Hakujo Marriage Consulting. What's your name?

She met Entaro's gaze.

Her eyes flickered with surprise, doubt, and maybe even a hint of anticipation.

Looking like she was about to reach out and take his hand, she called out to him.

My name—

Let's go. You shouldn't get involved with this man!

The man in glasses stepped in forcefully, trying to drag her away.

Hey. Wait a minute!

Entaro tried to follow, but the man in glasses signaled to the security staff, who quickly restrained him.

Nevertheless—

My name is Yui Minazuki!

Her parting words reached Entaro loud and clear.

The day after the matchmaking party, Entaro received a call from the beautiful woman.

Can I come by this evening?

Sure, of course. Do you know where it is?

They took your business card from me, but the address on your website is correct, right?

Excited about a potential new member, Entaro was practically on cloud nine.

He used the gaps in between member consultations to tidy up the room, vacuum the floor, and shave his beard again even though he had already shaved that morning.

As Entaro was surveying the now immaculate room, his niece, who lived with him, came home. Upon hearing about the situation, she made a scathing remark.

She might be surprised to find out that this agency is just in an ordinary house.

Hakujo Marriage Consulting was located in the downtown area of Kanda, Tokyo.

The building, though called an agency, was actually just a regular old wooden house from the Showa era, with one room serving as both the home and the marriage consultation office.

The room where members were welcomed was an ordinary six-mat tatami living room, with a low table in the center. Beside it was a small tea table, which currently held a work computer with a monitor and keyboard.

I'm excited to see her reaction. Most people are suspicious and don't believe this is really the agency.

His niece, never one to hold back, casually toppled the neatly stacked cushions Entaro had arranged, grabbed one to sit on, and with a flourish, opened a bag of snacks she'd pulled from her school bag.

Hey, don't spill anything. I just cleaned up.

You're quite the show-off, aren't you? A new member's coming over and you're getting all worked up like a boy inviting a girl over for the first time.

Entaro glared at his niece, who flashed a mischievous grin in return, while he went about restacking the cushions neatly.

Her name was Aori Kagurazaka.

She was Entaro's 17-year-old niece and a high school student.

She had moved to Tokyo to attend high school and was living (freeloading) at Entaro's house. They were fairly close relatives, so they knew each other well even before that.

At least, that's what he had thought until they actually started living together. At first, she seemed like a good girl who would actively help around the house, but . . .

You're on cooking duty today, right, Aori?

Huh, really?

You haven't cooked in a while, have you? Come on, make something for a change.

How about this?

Aori, without a shred of guilt, placed the half-eaten bag of snacks on the table with a laugh.

When they first started living together, Entaro had set up a schedule for household chores.

Aori had been diligent with her chores at first, but now she seemed to have lost all motivation. She'd grudgingly do the bare minimum to fulfill her duty as a freeloader, but the quality was always lacking.

When put in charge of meals, she'd just serve instant noodles, and if asked to clean, she'd claim it wasn't dirty enough to bother and refuse to budge.

She's like the textbook example of a woman you shouldn't marry.

That's what came to mind as he vacuumed up the snack remnants Aori had left scattered around.

Hey. What's the name of that new member? Did you look her up?

Aori glared at the noisy vacuum cleaner, smartphone in hand.

No, not yet. Look up Yui Minazuki for me?

Entaro hadn't looked her up yet, since it was only the day after they met, but he made it a habit to look up the names of newcomers online.

Social media was a glimpse into someone's character, and if they had a problematic past, like a criminal record, that showed up too. Though, very few members ever fell into the latter category.

Wow. Seriously, wow! This girl?

Aori's eyes widened as she showed Entaro the screen of her smartphone.

I can never tell if your 'wows' are a good or bad thing . . .

Entaro furrowed his brow as he looked at the screen.

It was an online news article, and the headline read—

The Stunning Scientist, Yui Minazuki

Her name appeared in a feature on beautiful women in various professions. The photo was unmistakably of the woman he'd seen at the matchmaking party, and Entaro found himself staring.

She's a scientist? She must be brilliant.

Forget that, she's gorgeous! Was she really this beautiful in person?

Yeah, she was stunning . . .

Although it had been chaotic at the time, and he hadn't had a chance to look at her face properly, he was sure she was beautiful. She had something about her, almost like an elegant glow - not just in appearance but also in aura.

Ooh, do you have a crush on this woman or something?

Entaro glared sternly at Aori, who smirked and grabbed the phone back.

Of course not. I mean, I think she's beautiful, but that's all there is to it.

Really? You should totally make a move, especially since you're single, too.

It's wrong to have personal feelings for a member. Who'd want a matchmaker who's only looking out for his own interests?

You're so weirdly serious. She's so gorgeous, too. What a shame.

Aori muttered as she stared at the phone, but Entaro believed there needed to be a clear line.

There was no rule that matchmakers couldn't fall for their clients. It was not unusual for them to become close and end up together while under their care.

However, he thought it was essential to keep those feelings separate.

Tackling matchmaking while distracted by personal, romantic feelings felt unprofessional or perhaps even inappropriate. The idea alone made him feel guilty.

She'll be here soon, so get it together or go back to your room.

Aori, lying down lazily and scratching her stomach, continued looking at her phone as Entaro scolded her.

Yeah, yeah, yeah . . .

Her tone was listless.

Really . . . you always—

Just as he was about to scold her more, the intercom rang.

Hey, she's here!

Seizing the moment, he cast a stern glance at Aori and headed for the entrance.

Opening the door, the person standing there was indeed Yui.

She was dressed casually in a tight skirt and a spring coat, with more modest makeup than he'd seen at the party.

Welcome— hey, what's with the face?

Yui looked uneasy and troubled.

No, I just didn't expect such an ordinary house; I was worried I might be in the wrong place.

Most private marriage agencies are like this. Anyway, please come in.

Alright . . .

As Yui stepped into the entrance, she looked around.

Wow, it feels so Showa-era, like something out of a movie.

It's my grandfather's house, built fifty years ago out of wood. But it's been remodeled once, so it's pretty sturdy.

With a wry smile, Entaro led the way down the hallway and took Yui into the living room.

Before opening the sliding door, he peered inside to ensure Aori was appropriately seated on the cushion, then opened the door.

Wow, the stunning scientist in the flesh! You look just like your pictures!

Cut it out, Aori!

Seeing Yui, Aori, with her smartphone in hand, began bubbling over with excitement, prompting Entaro to warn her quickly.

No manners, as usual.

However, instead of getting angry, Yui's eyes gleamed like a hunter who had just spotted unexpected prey.

A high school girl . . . ?

A menacing undertone seeped into her words, tinged with excitement.

Uh . . .

Aori's smile froze, and sensing danger, she instinctively broke her formal seating posture and scooted back.

No, no, it's not like that. I'm not some kind of creep.

Yui quickly regained her cool, giving Aori a gentle smile as she continued.

I just genuinely appreciate the company of high school girls, that's all.

That explanation didn't help at all.

In fact, it just made her seem even more suspicious.

She's a total creeper, Entaro! We should call the police!

Calm down, Aori.

Entaro tried to keep Aori from panicking, giving Yui a skeptical frown.

What do you mean, you like high school girls?

Well, it's just . . . I misspoke, sort of.

Yui awkwardly looked down, murmuring her excuse in a low voice.

I don't mean it in a creepy way. It's more like how people love cats or dogs.

Suddenly facing an image far removed from the cool, quiet beauty she appeared to be, Entaro was confused. It seemed she had inadvertently revealed a personal interest (?) and was now flustered.

But liking high school girls is a little . . .

Even if she claimed it was like being a dog or cat lover, the comparison didn't quite work. Dog and cat lovers wouldn't stand for being grouped in together like this. The implication alone was rather unsavory.

Aori expression turned cold and suspicious.

Look, there's a good reason for it.

Yui seemed eager to smooth things over with Aori, her face earnest like a cat lover trying to tame a stray as she pleaded her case.

I used to live abroad, so I never got to experience being a high school girl in Japan. It's heartbreaking I couldn't experience something so quintessentially Japanese as being a cute teen girl in a school uniform . . . I guess I'm just more attached to it than most people.

But still . . . Wait, you lived abroad?

Aori let her guard down slightly at that revelation.

At that, Yui quickly stepped into the living room, approaching Aori.

I was a little smarter than most, so I went to Harvard. I could tell you all about life overseas. I'm even fluent in English, too. You can ask me anything you want.

Uh, okay . . .

Taken aback by Yui's forwardness, Aori was completely put off.

Entaro offered her a cushion to sit on, starting to realize Yui might be the type who struggled with personal boundaries.

Well, let's drop the high school girl thing for now . . . I'd like to briefly explain how our agency works. Our registration fee is 30,000 yen. The monthly membership fee is 10,000 yen. Matchmaking fees are borne by the client. That's basically it for the necessary fees.

Seated across the table from him, Yui's expression turned skeptical.

That's a little cheap, isn't it? Kuromine Marriage Planner was more expensive. Like, two or even three times as much.

Our agency is different. Over there, they charge two years' worth of membership fees upfront when you join. Including the registration fee, it usually amounts to about 500,000 yen, right?

Entaro looked at Yui for confirmation.

. . . I guess so.

Yui's response seemed somewhat uncertain.

Maybe I got their payment model wrong? I thought that's what I heard, but . . .

Since he'd heard it from a friend in the matchmaking business, there was a chance he could be wrong.

No, that sounds about right.

Yui prompted Entaro to continue.

Kuromine Marriage Planner requires a larger joining fee up front, but they ask for less when you find a match. We charge less at the start, but our matching fee is higher at 300,000 yen. It's kind of like a success-based model.

Entaro felt this approach was more straightforward with their members.

He didn't think it was right to extract large sums from members eager to marry without guaranteeing a partner. His belief was that one should earn their fee by delivering results, which also made the job more satisfying.

That's why, even if you're registered with both agencies, I don't think it'll be too much of a burden. You've already paid them, right? So it'd be better to stay enrolled and make the most of those pre-paid monthly fees. It's the smarter option.

Entaro took the membership application form from the dresser and handed it to Yui, who stared at it intently.

If you've stayed afloat like this until now, you must be, um—

Just call me Entaro. I'll call you Yui, too.

Entaro made a point to call members by their first names, hoping to close any emotional distance and create a warmer atmosphere for matchmaking.

Then, Entaro . . . does that make you a really skilled matchmaker? From what you just explained, you only get paid if you succeed, right? The fact that you've kept going with this model means—

Embarrassed, Entaro scratched the back of his head.

Then Aori took over the conversation.

My big brother is an incredible matchmaker. People even call him the matchmaker who can marry off the unmarriageable.

Oh . . .

Of course, Yui didn't know that.

Many people were drawn to Hakujo Marriage Consulting for this reputation, so its members tended to be a unique type.

Is that different from a regular matchmaker? Like the ones at Kuromine Marriage Planner?

I suppose so . . . Originally, this office was handed down to me by my mother. She was famous as a matchmaker who could marry off those who were deemed unmarriageable, and when she retired, I took over. Her title stuck with me too, maybe because our methods are similar.

So, who are these unmarriageable people? What kind of people are they?

Hmm . . . It's not quite right to say they're unmarriageable, per se. It's better to say they just struggle to find the right match.

And you've been able to marry off these struggling people? Is that what you're saying?

Well, yes, that's right.

I see . . .

For a while, she looked at him with a calculating gaze.

She was evaluating if he was a trustworthy matchmaker worth joining. It was the look every prospective member gave during their first consultation.

I feel like I want to try matchmaking with you, Entaro. But just words aren't enough for me to trust . . .

Yui momentarily lowered her gaze.

So, um . . . could I observe how you work for a while? I'll decide whether to join after that.

Ah, of course. If that's what you want, Yui, I don't mind at all. Take your time observing, and then you can decide whether to join on your own timing.

Yeah. Thank you.

Smiling back at Yui, Entaro wondered what to do next.

He agreed so easily, but what exactly did observing his work mean? Would she follow him around like a puppy, watching his every move? Just the thought made his back itch—he was pretty sure that's what would happen.

Heyyy. I'm getting hungry.

Aori hugged her stomach dramatically, whining. Entaro checked the clock—it was already 7 p.m.

He had a meeting scheduled with another member at exactly 7 p.m. Starting to cook now would be bad timing.

I'm really in the mood for eel.

Even so, Entaro couldn't ignore Aori as she turned her phone screen toward him, showing a restaurant page.

But you already brought dinner?

Entaro joked, pointing at the snacks left on the table.

Aori puffed up her cheeks like a blowfish in response.

You can be so childish sometimes. You know I was just kidding.

Then wait until the meeting's over. I'll make some stir-fried vegetables.

Aww! But I'm really craving eel right now.

Don't be so extravagant. Do you even know how much eel delivery costs?

It's on me.

Yui pulled out an expensive-looking designer wallet from her bag.

For real? Are you sure?

Aori's face lit up with joy as she looked expectantly at Yui, her previous apprehension completely melted away.

Hey now, don't spoil her too much. It'll become a habit.

Entaro chided her on the spot, but Yui just gave a smug smile.

Spoiling high school girls is an adult's duty.

I've never heard of such a duty . . .

Ignoring Entaro's bewildered look, Aori moved closer to Yui.

So, um, I'd like this one—

Aori excitedly started picking from the menu. When asked what he wanted, Entaro reluctantly picked something.

I'll have the eel bowl.

I should at least pay for my own portion, he thought.

***

Aori placed an order with the local eel shop boasting quick delivery, and within five minutes, there was a sound at the door.

Aori immediately ran to answer it.

It's Botan . . .

Aori returned, muttering disappointedly.

G-Good evening.

Following Aori was Botan Hazakura, a member here for a matchmaking meeting.

She was petite, with twin tails. Beneath her neatly trimmed bangs was a youthful, innocent-looking face. However, her chest was large enough that she proudly claimed to have an E-cup without any real proof.

Welcome, Botan. Have you decided on your outfit for the matchmaking session?

Hmm . . . I'm still unsure. Since he's a school teacher, I thought a modest look might be appropriate, but then again, I'm tempted to go with something sexy to stir up some kind of sense of forbidden allure . . .

Botan, who had been pondering with her chin in her hand, suddenly noticed Yui's presence, her eyes widening.

Whoa, who's this? A new member . . . ?

Not a member yet—she's a candidate. She's here observing to decide if she wants to join.

I see . . .

Botan stared intensely at Yui, then let out an impressed sigh.

Wow, she's so beautiful! It's like her features have been drawn perfectly. So elegant and refined.

I'm Yui Minazuki. Nice to meet you.

Yui, in turn, looked at Botan and tilted her head in curiosity.

Are you, um . . . also struggling to find a partner? You don't seem like you would.

Hehe, well, my job is a bit . . . peculiar.

Botan chuckled hesitantly and took out her smartphone from the pocket of her shorts. Upon seeing the wallpaper, Yui blushed.

I'm an erotic manga artist.