**Chapter 2: An Unexpected Offer**

The fluorescent lights above me seemed to fade into the background as I stared at Hange, my mind racing with questions. What did he mean by "a place for you here"? Was he offering me a job, or was this some kind of charity? I looked around, taking in the imposing structure of the Yakuza headquarters, and wondered if I had just made a huge mistake. Hange's piercing eyes seemed to bore into my soul, as if searching for something. I felt a shiver run down my spine as he handed me back my mom's medical bills. "Tell me, what makes you think you can work for us?" he asked, his voice low and smooth. I took a deep breath, trying to gather my thoughts. I had been preparing for this moment, rehearsing my answers to common interview questions. But this was no ordinary interview, and I wasn't sure if my usual responses would suffice. "I...I'm a hard worker," I stammered. "I'm willing to learn, and I'm not afraid of challenges." Hange raised an eyebrow, his expression skeptical. "Is that so?" he said, his voice dripping with amusement. "And what makes you think you can handle the...demands of our organization?" I swallowed hard, my heart racing with anxiety. I had heard stories about the Yakuza, about their ruthless tactics and their involvement in organized crime. But I was desperate, and I was willing to take a chance. "I'm...I'm willing to do whatever it takes," I said, trying to sound confident. Hange's expression softened, and he nodded thoughtfully. "I see," he said. "Well, let me show you something." He turned and walked towards the building, beckoning me to follow him. I hesitated for a moment, wondering if I should trust this stranger. But something about his kind eyes put me at ease, and I followed him into the building. As we walked through the corridors, I noticed that the fluorescent lights seemed to be dimmer here, and the air was thick with the scent of incense. It was a strange contrast to the bright, harsh lights outside, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me. We stopped in front of a large wooden door, adorned with intricate carvings. Hange pushed the door open, revealing a large room filled with rows of computers and desks. People in suits and ties bustled about, typing away on their keyboards or talking on phones. "This is our...operations center," Hange said, his voice low and smooth. "We handle a variety of...ventures here. And I think you might be able to help us with one of our projects." I stared, my eyes wide with wonder. This was no ordinary office, and I had no idea what kind of "ventures" they were involved in. But Hange seemed confident, and I was willing to take a chance. "Let's talk," he said, gesturing to a chair in front of his desk. "I think we can come to a mutually beneficial arrangement." I sat down, my heart racing with excitement and fear. What was I getting myself into? But as I looked into Hange's eyes, I saw something there that made me trust him. Maybe, just maybe, this was the break I needed to save my mom's life.