My 2D anime story

At the Third Animation Production Studio

Since Su Yu was already here, he naturally wanted to check on the young animators' progress.

And to his surprise—

They were even more capable than he expected.

The character designs for the protagonists were already complete—

The background artists had figured out a clear pattern—

The dream sequence in the opening scene—Miyazumi Shi had already finished one-third of it by herself—

The music team had found the perfect vocalist according to Su Yu's specifications—

The production of Episode 1 was proceeding without a hitch.

If nothing unexpected happened, the first episode would be completed in five days.

Miyazumi Shi's Office

She was reporting the progress to Su Yu.

"So far, everything is progressing well. Everyone is highly motivated, and many even volunteered for overtime…"

Su Yu listened quietly, without interrupting.

After she finished, he set down his coffee cup.

"I just checked around. The first episode's progress is solid. But I'm a bit concerned—if they push too hard now, it could affect later episodes…"

"Don't worry. Everyone understands that, and I've already secured management's support. Once we finish 'Madoka Magica,' the team will get a two-week break. Also, since the project is scheduled for three months, everyone will receive performance bonuses throughout that period."

Miyazumi Shi replied confidently.

"Three months is plenty of time—no need to rush. Quality is the priority. If you ever need my help, just let me know. My drawing skills should be more than up to the task."

Su Yu nodded.

"I know."

Miyazumi Shi smiled softly, placing the report aside.

Then, as if gathering her courage, she took a deep breath—

And bowed deeply before him.

"Thank you."

Su Yu raised an eyebrow.

"Just a simple 'thank you'?"

Miyazumi Shi froze for a moment.

"T-Then… w-what do you want?"

She lifted her head, her face slightly flushed.

She knew Su Yu had a girlfriend—

But gratitude was a powerful emotion.

If Su Yu really asked for something unreasonable—

She might…

She might even consider it.

"I need you."

Su Yu's serious tone made her face turn scarlet in an instant.

"N-Need me?"

Was he…

Did he really mean it like that?!

"I'll eventually acquire some shares in Flashlight Animation. 'Madoka Magica' is just the beginning. I want to establish a long-term partnership with the Third Production Studio."

Su Yu said calmly.

"Huh?"

Miyazumi Shi blinked, caught off guard.

"From the moment I met you, I felt like it was… fate."

"I happened to have a story. You happened to need an opportunity. That's why I made that offer to you."

"Fate…?"

Miyazumi Shi muttered, feeling her heartbeat quicken.

"You were my first manga mentor. And in return, I rekindled your passion for animation. That's our connection."

"I want to continue this partnership—to create even more amazing works together."

Su Yu's voice was soft but firm.

Miyazumi Shi felt something stir within her—

Her eyes shone with a newfound determination.

"I… I accept."

She said, lowering her gaze slightly.

Su Yu stood up and took a step closer—

Holding out his hand.

"I look forward to working with you."

"Same here."

Miyazumi Shi reached out, taking his hand in hers.

His hand was warm—

She hesitated for a moment—

Then realized she had been holding it for too long—

Her face turned bright red, and she quickly let go.

Su Yu glanced at the time, then at her.

"Get some rest. I'll be heading out now."

"Y-Yeah… you too."

She watched him leave, a hint of reluctance in her eyes.

Back to Yukino's Side

Su Yu found Yukino, who had just finished her work.

She was tidying up her desk.

Once she was done, the two left the studio together.

In the Elevator

Su Yu glanced sideways at Yukino.

"If this anime succeeds, and your family acknowledges you, would you want to continue making anime?"

Yukino paused, turning to face him.

"Is that why you made me the director? To help me gain my family's approval?"

"Yes… and no."

She looked at him, puzzled.

"It was a factor, but not the only reason."

Su Yu explained.

"Did my sister say something to you?"

Yukino's expression became complicated.

"Haruno told me that if you earned your mother's approval, she would acknowledge me as well. And that I could officially become your friend."

"So… you only made me the director because of that?"

A hint of disappointment flashed in Yukino's eyes.

"Yukino, I made you the director because I wanted to be friends with you—not because I needed anyone's approval."

"Do you really think that if your mother doesn't approve of me, I can't be your friend?"

Su Yu asked, his gaze sincere and unwavering.

Yukino's face flushed slightly.

"Yukino, if you want to keep seeking your mother's approval forever, I won't be able to support you much longer."

"My creativity is limited. I can't always be by your side. And I can't keep making anime forever…"

"Su Yu-kun, I've never thought that way."

Yukino interrupted him.

"I understand you, but I don't know every thought in your head—especially what you'll become after getting your mother's approval."

Su Yu said calmly.

"I see now. So you were afraid I'd chase after more and more recognition—making anime just to please others?"

Yukino finally understood.

Su Yu nodded.

Yukino smiled faintly.

"Su Yu-kun, it seems… you don't fully understand me after all."

"You never gave me the chance to."

Su Yu met her gaze directly.

Yukino rolled her eyes but said nothing.

For a brief moment, the elevator fell silent.

When the doors opened,

Yukino stepped out, looking toward the black luxury car parked at the entrance.

Then, she turned to Su Yu.

"I wouldn't keep making anime just to get my mother's approval. The only reason I agreed to direct this project… was because your story fascinated me."

"I see. Then I'll just have to keep writing stories that intrigue you—so you'll keep directing my anime."

Su Yu smiled playfully.

Yukino's face burned red.

She huffed softly and started walking toward the car.

Su Yu followed beside her.

They both got into the backseat, and the car pulled away.

Inside the quiet vehicle,

Su Yu slowly reached out—

And gently took Yukino's hand.

She flinched, about to pull away—

But then, Su Yu leaned in close—

And whispered something softly in her ear.