I’m traveling out of town soon after receiving an offer. It’ll be my first time meeting him, but I’m worried he might not show up. Since it’s far away, I’d hate to waste the transportation costs…

Maezawa from the CEO’s office here as well. You’re referring to a Universe setting, right? With Universe, the man is responsible for reimbursing the actual transportation costs for traveling a long distance, separately from the ¥5,000–¥10,000 thank-you payment after the meal. (This is separate from your allowance as well.) It’s very unlikely that the man won’t show up, but even if he did, the club would charge him for your actual transportation costs. So it’s best not to throw away your ticket or receipt—keep it as proof of purchase. That said, there have also been cases where a woman met the man but didn’t receive reimbursement for her transportation, so be sure to collect it. (Normally, you should receive the round-trip reimbursement as soon as you meet.) In addition, the club rules require you to receive ¥5,000–¥10,000, so don’t forget to collect that as well. (This is usually paid at the meal.) After the meal, if things move into a private adult relationship, an allowance will be involved. Discuss separately what amount you would be comfortable with. If the offer is lower than you hoped, feel free to decline. Some men may assume that you won’t refuse after traveling such a long way and offer a low amount, but if you’re not comfortable with it, say no. Some men may also say things like, “You’ve already spent so much on transportation,” but that has nothing to do with it. Decide based on whether the allowance meets your expectations and whether the man is clean and well-groomed, so you won’t regret it. If he follows you to your hotel after you turn him down, contact the club. Under the rules, the club must arrange a hotel where you can stay alone, so the man is not allowed to stay in the same room or enter your room. Even if you would be okay staying together, the rules require separate rooms to be booked.

I’m Dai, a male member. If she’s worried even though it’s her first offer, I’m guessing this is a letter date? Since the man is paying to make the offer, I think it’s unlikely that he simply won’t show up. The setting fee would go to waste, and she could leave a bad review that might affect his future activities.