Shinichi understood that these gatherings were part of the publicity that Underneath needed, but at times like this, he just wanted to run away.

The woman pressed closer and burbled cheerfully, "Oh wow! You really are so tall! I thought that your height had been exaggerated by the filming angles!"

A stern looking man came up behind her and took her arm while scolding her, "Dear, you can't monopolize one of the artists like this. It makes it look like you're flirting with him."

The woman turned and asked coyly, "What if I am?"

The man frowned at her and said sternly, "It is not allowed."

She pouted outrageously, and then met his eyes. A moment later she flounced off, tossing a casual, "Fine!" over her shoulder.

"I'm sorry for the little scene," the man told Shinichi wryly, "but it's a husband's job to guide and set boundaries for his wife."

Shinichi laughed, and then clapped a hand over his mouth. After a moment he said, "Sorry, you just sounded like you were a familiar."

The man gave him a puzzled look, and then his face cleared and he said, "Ah, yes, of course you would find me familiar. I have given many speeches that have been broadcast worldwide." He smiled and shook Shinichi's hand and then walked away.

Shinichi shook his head. He didn't think that Danika would like that concept of a husband, since she already thought he was bossy at times. He tried to imagine her flirting with anyone, and cringed. Then he laughed. A few people glanced at him and he hurried over to where Toshi was obviously trying to escape a conversation with a surprisingly spry old woman.