Retsuko’s patience frayed further under the weight of her mother’s insistent control. Meanwhile, Director Ton made it clear that the team needed to adopt a firm approach with their newest member.

Against Retsuko’s wishes, her mother arranged a meeting for her. The prospective match, a new hire named Anai, presented himself with an initial impression of pleasantness and keenness.

Director Ton rebuked Retsuko, expressing his disappointment in Anai’s stalled progress. Simultaneously, Anai continued to respond with considerable negativity to any direction offered by Retsuko.

For the company's annual Family Appreciation Day, Retsuko and Anai are tasked with running a food stall. Eager to avoid any friction, Retsuko takes on the entire responsibility herself.

Retsuko's yakisoba is universally reviled. Anai remains aloof, offering no assistance, until Kabae offers him a few words of support.

News of Shirota's departure prompted Retsuko to agree, with a degree of reluctance, to attend a matchmaking event. There, amidst the hopeful chatter and awkward glances, she unexpectedly encountered Director Gori.

With a newly acquired driver's license, Retsuko embarked on a road trip with Gori and Washimi. However, the journey took an unexpected turn when a sharp disagreement erupted between the two women.

Beneath a quiet exterior, Tadano was poised to become a significant figure in the world of technology. He proposed an outing for ramen, an invitation that held a surprise far removed from Retsuko’s expectations.

A hopeful future with Tadano began to bloom in Retsuko's mind. She accompanied him on a business golf outing, but her pleasant anticipation curdled with dismay at the arrival of Director Ton.

News of Retsuko's prominent relationship has spread widely. In response, Tadano declares his desire for a lifelong commitment, explicitly stating his wish to remain unmarried.