The Blind Love Life of the Returning Hero: The Companions I Lost in Another World Resurrect in the Modern Era and Indulge Me - Episode 14

Several days had passed since Hayato reunited with his companions. One morning, he sat drinking coffee, absentmindedly watching the television. The view from the window of his high-rise apartment showcased the city glittering under a clear sky—an urban landscape bathed in sunlight. It was a peaceful daily life, a stark contrast to the harsh adventures he’d experienced in another world.

Just as he was enjoying this calm moment, his newly purchased, state-of-the-art smartphone rang. He set down his coffee cup and glanced at the screen. The name “Takeshi Tetsumura” was displayed.

“Hello?”

“Hey, Hayato.”

The caller was Takeshi Tetsumura. His voice was full of energy. In the background, Hayato could hear the rustling of papers being flipped through.

“Actually, I have a favor to ask.”

“A favor?”

If a friend was asking for help, Hayato wanted to assist however he could. As he listened, he straightened his back, instinctively adopting the seriousness of his former role as a hero.

“We’re considering acquiring a mine. I’m scheduled to go inspect it and I’d like you to come along.”

Hayato raised an eyebrow.

“A mine?”

“Yeah. It’s overseas. If you help out, we’ll make sure you’re properly compensated.”

Even over the phone, Takeshi’s sincerity came through clearly.

Hayato was a little surprised. It was a sudden request, and he couldn’t help but wonder if there was a special reason behind it.

“Why so suddenly?”

There was a pause as Takeshi seemed to choose his words carefully.

“I heard you’re looking for work. Think of it as a short-term job. I’d really appreciate your help.”

He’d probably heard it from Riri or Josuke—about how Hayato had quit his previous job and hadn’t yet found a new one.

“I’d really like to have your help.”

Hayato thought about the meaning behind those words. Maybe Takeshi had picked up on his growing anxiety about finding work and was trying to look out for him.

If he’d gone out of his way to create this opportunity for Hayato, then… a mix of slight guilt and deep gratitude welled up in his heart. After thinking about his future for a moment, Hayato made up his mind and responded.

“Alright. I’ll help out.”

As he said those words, Hayato silently vowed to give this task his all and meet Takeshi’s expectations.

“Thank you!”

Takeshi’s voice, full of joy, came through clearly—even over the phone.

“I’ll send you the details later, but we’re scheduled to leave in two weeks. You have a passport, right?”

“Yeah, luckily I still have one.”

His previous company had told him to get one, though he never ended up using it. It should still be valid. He’d have to check later to make sure.

“Great. I’ll send you an email with the details. Let’s have a meeting next week.”

After the call ended, Hayato sat and thought for a while. It was all so sudden, but if there was something he could do to help, he wanted to do it. And if his abilities were of use, all the better.

After receiving the detailed information from Takeshi, Hayato reviewed the full scope of the inspection trip. The destination was a country in Southeast Asia. The mine located there was one Takeshi was considering acquiring.

The attached photos showed a vast mining area surrounded by mountains. The surrounding nature was beautiful, but the mining site itself was rugged and harsh.

According to the information, several bodyguards from a security firm contracted by the Tetsumura conglomerate would be joining the trip. From their perspective, Hayato would also be considered a VIP under their protection.

Josuke would be accompanying them as an advisor as well. “I’m counting on both of you,” Takeshi had written.

Hayato smiled. Working alongside his former comrades from their otherworldly adventures brought a familiar and reassuring feeling. He began to reflect on what he could contribute to the mission.

Departure Day – International Terminal at the Airport

At the agreed meeting place, Hayato waited with Josuke, who had his laptop open and was checking the latest information. As a former intelligence agent, his habit of meticulous preparation hadn’t changed.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

Takeshi appeared in a business suit. His perfectly put-together appearance exuded the dignity of someone from a powerful family. Behind him stood several men and women in black suits—clearly bodyguards. Their eyes constantly scanned the surroundings, alert.

“So these are your companions?”

The speaker was a muscular, middle-aged man with close-cropped hair. He seemed to be the head of the security team. His demeanor was strict and professional, the mark of someone well-trained.

“Yes,” Takeshi replied, introducing Hayato and Josuke.

“These two are very important comrades of mine. They’ll be assisting with this mission.”

The bodyguard furrowed his brow for a moment. A wealthy heir flanked by two seemingly ordinary men—he likely found the pairing odd. His sharp eyes appraised Hayato and Josuke briefly. But he didn’t pry further; he simply nodded respectfully.

“Understood. The two of you are also under our protection. Please let us know if you need anything.”

After completing the departure procedures, the group passed through the gate. Even within the airport, the bodyguards stayed close, forming a protective ring around the three of them as they moved.

On the plane, they were shown to first class. It was Hayato’s first time flying in such luxury, and he felt slightly overwhelmed by the spacious seats and premium service. The large, leather seats were practically like beds.

“What do you think?” Josuke asked from beside him, already reclining his seat like a seasoned traveler.

“Looks like we’re being treated as VIPs by the Tetsumura Group.”

He wore a slight smile, clearly enjoying the experience.

“Yeah,” Hayato replied, sinking into his seat. The luxury made him feel a little uncomfortable. He just wasn’t used to it.

“It’s a bit too fancy for me.”

When the flight attendant brought champagne, Takeshi smirked and lifted his glass with ease befitting an heir to a financial empire. The three of them toasted together.

“No need to hold back. Take the chance to enjoy it.”

During the flight, the three chatted about various things, including the upcoming inspection.

“Actually,” Takeshi said in a lower voice, his expression turning serious, “there’s a chance something might go wrong.”

He suddenly seemed far more cautious.

“Some organization might try to interfere.”

“So that’s it,” Josuke said, nodding.

“That’s why you called us.”

“Exactly. Especially Hayato—your intuition saved us countless times in the other world.”

Takeshi looked at Hayato with a serious expression.

“I’m counting on you this time too.”

“Got it. You can count on me.”

Hayato nodded firmly. If his skills could be of use, he intended to give it everything he had.