Sometimes I’m taken straight to a room without discussing the allowance first. Ideally, I think we should agree on the amount before going there, but how do most people generally handle this? As a woman, I feel unable to say, “I can’t go to the room unless we decide on the amount!”

I’ll answer this as Maezawa as well. > “I couldn’t bring myself to say, ‘I can’t go to your room unless we agree on an amount.’” I believe the staff explained this during your interview, but when it comes to the personal-dating aspect, always confirm the terms and only proceed once you’re comfortable with them, so you won’t regret it later. Even if it feels awkward to bring up, not saying anything may leave you regretting that the arrangement didn’t match what you wanted. People registered with Universe have their real names and addresses on file with the club, so I don’t think they would do anything strange—but it’s still not an absolute guarantee. The man might also insist that he didn’t realize this kind of personal dating would involve money. If that happens, contact the club and tell us that you’re unhappy and can’t accept what happened. We can confirm the facts with the man, and if it appears he did it deliberately, that would go against the club’s requirement that members behave like gentlemen. He may be forcibly removed from the club, but even then, I don’t think that would benefit you very much. Even if it feels awkward, make sure you confirm the terms. If you’d like, you can simply add, “That’s what the club told me.” (The club should have told you this as well, so it wouldn’t be a lie.)

My name is Joe. Personally, I think Saito-san’s opinion says it all, but I’ll add my two cents. If you can’t bring yourself to say, “I can’t go to a room unless we agree on the amount first,” then honestly, I’m not sure why. You need to choose your words carefully, but there’s no reason to hesitate. You’re doing it to protect yourself.

This is Saito, your columnist ♪ Before going to his place, please be sure to ask: “I’m very sorry to bring this up, but what are your thoughts on the allowance?” Please gather your courage and ask for yourself. Men and women may have different ideas of what’s ideal, so make sure you discuss the details and build a better relationship.