Hirotaka Nifuji appears as a tall, handsome man with fair skin, blue eyes, and short bluish-black hair parted in the middle. He consistently wears high-spec black glasses for nearsightedness. Professionally, he dresses in a navy blue suit and purple tie, while at home he favors casual long-sleeved shirts and track pants. Both his ears are pierced, but he does not wear earrings. A lifelong enthusiast, Hirotaka specializes in FPS, fighting, and action video games, crediting his skill to extensive experience; he once stated life without games would be unsustainable. He also engages with manga, anime, and figurine collecting. Narumi Momose, his childhood friend, was his first and enduring romantic interest. During school, attempting to impress her after seeing her then-boyfriend with piercings, he pierced his ears—a decision he immediately regretted. He also began smoking to appeal to her, leading to lasting addiction. Personality-wise, Hirotaka maintains a stoic, unemotional exterior, rarely smiling or displaying overt expressions. Internally, he experiences deeper emotions, particularly concerning Narumi. He communicates more expressively via text, frequently using emoticons. Socially disinterested, he keeps few friends despite no inherent difficulty socializing. He is openly an otaku at work, contrasting Narumi's secrecy, and demonstrates high professional competence, often finishing tasks faster than colleagues. He approaches gaming with intense seriousness and competitiveness. Historically, he preferred voluptuous women, creating irony in his relationship with Narumi. He possesses high alcohol tolerance and shows fearlessness during horror-themed activities. His relationship with Narumi evolves significantly. Reuniting as coworkers, he invites her to be his girlfriend during a casual conversation, linking it to accompanying her as a sales assistant at a comic event. She accepts, and their partnership deepens with mutual care. Hirotaka supports her fujoshi interests, assists at her doujinshi booth, and participates in cosplay at her request. They eventually marry, with Narumi taking his surname, and have a son. Post-parenthood, he quits smoking. As a father, he frequently plays video games with his son, who consistently loses. Other key relationships include his younger brother, Naoya Nifuji. Outwardly indifferent, Hirotaka harbors genuine concern for him, expressing approval of Naoya's girlfriend, Kō Sakuragi. With coworkers Hanako Koyanagi and Tarō Kabakura, he shares regular social outings like drinks and home visits. His bond with Hanako strengthens after she advises him during a horror ride. He also forms an unexpected camaraderie with Kō Sakuragi due to shared gaming proficiency and reserved natures, unusual given his typical disinterest in new acquaintances. Hirotaka's development centers on emotional expression and lifestyle adjustments. Initially guarded, he gradually reveals vulnerability, particularly regarding the pace of his relationship with Narumi. Major life changes—marriage, parenthood, and quitting smoking—show his adaptability. While maintaining core traits like gaming dedication, his willingness to engage in family activities and support Narumi's pursuits reflects maturation.

Titles

Hirotaka Nifuji

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