Most of the men in the room, particularly the elder ones, shifted uncomfortably in their seats.
"I don't know about that," the man who just tried to dismiss Midori said in a gruff voice. "I have never been in a serious meeting with any woman. She might own a piece of land, but she doesn't have any say here. I own an entire neighborhood!"
Kiyoshi leaned back in his seat and said in a languid manner, "I own ten neighborhoods in Ginza. I don't mind adding one more if you wish to sell, Hamada-san."
Mr. Hamada turned as red as a beet. If Kiyoshi were not Kiyoshi Matsumoto, he might be tempted to challenge him to a duel.
The two men, one elder and one younger, exchanged several chilly looks before Mr. Hamada gave in.
"Please start the meeting, Kamishiro-san," he snapped. "I am a busy man. I have more things to do after this meeting concludes."
"Of course," Junichi agreed. "Everyone, please take your seat..."