When I was a new employee, the person introduced as my supervisor was Sumi Kurokawa. I was instantly captivated by her dignified and confident demeanor, and I strongly wished to work alongside someone like her someday. A few years later, I was assigned to a new project and excited to learn that Sumi Kurokawa would be the team leader. Our business negotiations were progressing smoothly, and success seemed within reach—until the project suddenly fell apart. Frustrated and struggling to maintain her position as leader, Kurokawa-san called me out late at night. Under the influence of alcohol, she revealed the cancellation of the project, and I saw the usual bright, energetic woman I admired sink into gloom. Wanting to lift her spirits, I showered her with every compliment I could think of, encouraging her—until, caught up in the moment, I blurted out that I loved her...