cote zombie apocalypse

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Chapter 38: A Call Between Men

While the smell of dinner drifted from the kitchen, Ayanokoji stepped out onto the balcony, pulling out a sleek communication device. After a few taps, Ryuen’s face appeared on the screen.

“Tch, what do you want now, Kiyotaka?” Ryuen grunted, but there was a teasing smirk behind his tone.

“Just thought you should know—Nagumo’s out of control. He’s got a power… something to do with metal. Not strong yet, but dangerous. He’s already started forcing girls to join him.”

Ryuen’s expression turned serious for a moment. “That bastard… good to know. I’ll keep an eye out.”

Then a female voice called from Ryuen’s side, “Ryuen, get back here already… I’m still not done with you.”

Ryuen smirked. “Looks like Mio’s hungry for another round.” He ended the call with a chuckle.

Back in the room, Ayanokoji turned to Manabu with a grin. “Sounds like Ryuen’s getting handled tonight.”

Manabu, caught off guard, coughed awkwardly and looked away, a slight blush creeping onto his face.

Ayanokoji teased, “After tonight, Tachibana might be the same.”

Manabu glanced back. “Are your girls always like that?”

Ayanokoji leaned back and smirked. “They are. I don’t mind though… feels great anyway.”

Just then, the girls started setting the table, chatting among themselves and laughing lightly. Suzune called out, “Dinner’s ready!”

Sae lit a few candles, Fuka placed the dishes down with flair, and Honami helped pass around plates—each of them glowing with warmth and subtle affection.

Watching the scene, Manabu let out a soft chuckle. “Feels like we’re brothers… and our wives are setting the dinner table like one big family.”

Ayanokoji looked at the group, then at Manabu. “Who knows,” he said, his voice calm. “Maybe we really are.”

As they sat down for dinner, surrounded by warmth, power, and connection—it felt, for a rare moment, like the apocalypse was far away.

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