@OnlyHereToRead I read this for the emotions and connections. I normally would've dropped something like this if Sayuri was just a shallow user or the mc was abusing her but its a very complex (relationship, socially) story. My only problem with it is the MC who is actually shallow, he just is written as a kind man but does not direct the flow of his life truly, the women around him are doing so more than he is. He needs to gain self direction and goals and drive . Right now he's simply a backseat driver in his own life and its frustrating. I also find the pace kinda slow.
In the end, right now the answer is very simple. He is getting older and needs to find a partner, he can't afford to wait 4 or 5 years for Sayuri and the manager is sus as hell. I also don't like the way she plays with him. His junior is the right choice, very pure and no sus crap going on. She's the right choice. He's too kind for these other women, however innocent they may be, to use take advantage of him. They're not doing it obviously, its very subtle and unspoken. The manager I think knows what she's doing and Sayu does as well but she simply hasn't a place to go.
I think the author is purposely giving the idiot ball to thr mc about his junior because she is obviously the best choice. Author doesn't put much time in for her, doesn't allow mc to realize her obvious affection, and constantly inserts jealousy situations for her. Its insulting clear.