Chapter 209 At the Bar

At the Bar

Minami-san sits next to me.

Just like the old days.

Immediately, a chaser, whiskey, and nuts were placed in front of the old man.

“Wow, it’s really rare to find a bourbon barrel with this malt. But surprisingly, it’s young.”

As you would expect from his whisky master, he is able to guess most of the characteristics just from the aroma and one sip.

“The nose is strong with vanilla and wood, but there are also hints of citrus and floral notes. I think this floral feeling is what makes the original whiskey so good.”

As the master poured the whiskey, I looked at the bottle, and it was indeed marked 8 years old. Not too young or too old.

But that can’t be a coincidence. It’s about this person. He must have come here to talk about something.

“This is rare. Didn’t you volunteer today?”

“Of course I did. Today I watched over elementary school children leaving school during the day.”

“What are you doing so casually on this hot day? If you drink pure whiskey in such a tired state, it will affect your body.”

This man has always been like this. He has vitality and is a strong drinker.

“I don’t care. There was nothing wrong with me in the medical examination.”

“Really….”

I couldn’t help but look to my right. It was a reserved seat. Even though I know that the person who was supposed to occupy it is no longer there,

The answer that should have come back was no longer there.

I knew Minami-san was watching me. He must have understood the meaning of my gestures.

“I see.”

He said briefly. He did not want to go into it.

“But that young man is now the secretary general of the ruling party. I never thought I would see a politician who would surpass the record of being the youngest.”

“I was lucky.”

“I see. I don’t think it’s my place to tell you this, but a politician can’t rise to the top without trickery and luck. Isn’t that the most necessary talent?”

Saying this, Minami-san slowly takes a sip of his drink. I am surprised too.

“Because what I want to do can only be done after I’m promoted.”

If I can’t, I have too much to lose.

“I think everyone would be surprised to know that the great raccoon dog of the political world, who has been called the second coming of Miki Takeyoshi, is moving forward with his blue emotions.”

“I am afraid of being compared to such a great historical figure. I don’t think I deserve it.”

Miki Takeyoshi. He was a genius and a master of the art of intrigue who overthrew the legendary Prime Minister Yoshida Shigeru and brought about the 55-year regime of Conservative Unity, which was considered impossible. He died of illness shortly after the Conservative Unification, but the regime was maintained for about 40 years after that.

To be honest, I think he’s being praised too much. Because I’m only driven by promises to my best friend and personal grudges.

Perhaps sensing my reaction, Minami-san spoke quietly.

“Isn’t it time for you to forgive yourself?”

His words were like a cold, deadly weapon.