The Repair Shop in the Corner of the Cafe.

[Synopsis]

Yu manages an old cafe. Next door, her ex-boyfriend, Yuki, runs a nameless repair shop. It is not just broken objects that are brought to the repair shop. They are packed with the scents of daily life spent with loved ones, conflicts regarding the deceased, messages to family, and even dreams that could not be let go. Every time they touch the feelings residing in the items brought in, the two clash but also complement each other. Involving regular customers and employees, they face the space between what can be fixed and what cannot. A story about cultivating a place for someone through the days at the repair shop and the cafe, while contemplating the meaning of working and living.

Chapter 1: The Toaster and the Morning Scent

"It's already morning!"

I said while clearing the table in the office. Yuki was sprawled out on the sofa in front of me. He was snoring loudly as usual. Chiyo-chan, the part-timer who came to work at the cafe a little early, said while shaking Yuki's shoulder.

"Yuki-san, please wake up. My breakfast is going to be late."

"Doing as you please again. You're just going to say you're broke or something, right? By the way, Yu, what's for breakfast today?"

"Give me a break. I'm not your mother!"

I said that while preparing breakfast for three. If the repair shop run by this lazy owner wasn't next to the cafe, I don't think I would go this far. After finishing breakfast, I opened the cafe's shutter. I confirmed the bell hanging on the door rang and hung up the 'Open' sign.

* * *

The young female customer was showing a photo of an old toaster on her smartphone screen.

"It's quite aged, isn't it? If it's this type of toaster, you can probably buy a cheaper and better one these days."

Yuki was leaning forward across the table as he spoke.

"It has to be this one. The others don't have that usual scent."

Scent? What on earth could she mean?

Yuki was talking more enthusiastically than usual. I could tell her voice tone was rising as she spoke as well. After she finished talking, she stood up from the sofa. Yuki stood up as well.

When she went outside the office, she came back carrying a toaster heavily from the car parked in the front parking lot. Yuki opened the door wide to escort her. He never opens the door for me even when both my hands are full. The female customer placed the toaster on the table. Yuki stared intently at the soot-stained glass window of the toaster, then rested his hand on his chin and nodded.

"I see."

I was staring intently at Yuki's profile.

"Yes?!"

I let out a startled cry.

"That's why I need the claim ticket!"

"Oh, right, yes. I'll get it ready right away."

I frantically rummaged through my desk drawer.

"Customer, please fill this out."

I handed her the document along with a ballpoint pen.
After she finished writing, she left the document on the table but deliberately handed the pen back to me.

"The owner of this shop is wonderful, isn't he?"

She whispered in my ear. She wore a childish, mischievous smile.
Caught off guard, I couldn't think of a reply and just bowed as I saw her off.

"Yu, your face is red. Are you feeling unwell?"

He's such a carefree man. My ears were burning.

I finished the repair service and returned to the cafe. That door connects to the inside of the cafe's counter.
Today, too, Chiyo-chan was taking care of the customers.
Her short brown hair suits her well. Every time she is called by a customer, she trots over with her short hair bobbing, looking just like a friendly dog.

Many of the regulars are fans of Chiyo-chan as well.

"Manager, are you done with babysitting?"

"Chiyo-chan, I've told you before, stop saying it like that. I'm not your mother."

"But you go to wake Yuki-san up every morning, don't you? And you even make breakfast."

"That's true, but that was just serving a customer. Besides, you eat that breakfast all the time too, don't you?"

"Thank you, Mother."

"Ugh! Stop it. I'm not that old!"

I forgot myself and shouted.
The customer drinking coffee at the counter laughed out loud. Looking closely, the customer at the back table was also shaking with laughter.
Embarrassed, I focused entirely on washing the dishes. A while later, Yuki sat down at the counter.

"Yu, are you sure you don't have a fever today?"

My grip tightened on the dishes I was washing. I almost threw the mug.

After finishing his coffee, Yuki immediately returned to his office.
Well, he's probably just going to take a nap like he always does.
I still can't wrap my head around Yuki's lifestyle.
I don't even have time to rest during the day, let alone take a nap.
Thinking about that, I kept my hands moving constantly.

It started to get dark outside.
At the same time, I felt the room get a bit chilly. After hurriedly turning on the lights for the room and the sign, I turned on the heater in the shop.
It's gotten much warmer during the day, but it's still cold at night.
After the last customer left, I turned off the sign's light.

Chiyo-chan also went home, and while closing up the coffee shop, I ate a late dinner. When I cook for myself, I always end up making my specialty, Napolitan.
Finally finished cleaning up, I went to peek into the repair shop next door as usual. There was no one in the office.
The shutter was down, but it wasn't locked. I let out a soft sigh and locked it.
I passed through the office and headed straight to the workshop.

The workshop was cramped with so many things. Parts and tools of all sizes were lined up along the entire wall.
Even though the room should have been bright, the wall always made the view feel dark.

While being watched by those parts and tools, Yuki had just started a repair.
Yuki was simply focused on the "object" in front of him.
Naturally, I wasn't even in his field of vision.
He was silently observing the object he was repairing.
His thoughts were leaking out as a monologue.

"A smell, huh? It seems there's no mistake about it."

Yuki muttered.

"It's quite sooty. Bread crumbs?"

When Yuki tilted the toaster slightly, charred bread crumbs spilled out like sand.

"So these bread crumbs that have been stuck for years were adding an exquisite aroma. The temperature of this worn-out heater also has an exquisite relationship with..."

I see, so that was it.

"If it's a poor switch contact or a broken wire, it shouldn't be a problem to repair it as is. If the heater is broken, that's quite troublesome. I'll check it with a tester. Since it's a part that touches food, I have to be careful when taking it apart..."

I have no idea what he's talking about. But Yuki's voice reaches deep into my brain.

"Good. It's a poor switch contact. I can repair this without touching the inside of the chamber. The switch will look different, but that shouldn't be a problem."

Yuki started rummaging through the stock shelf for a switch. From there, it was over in a flash.
He soldered the switch in place, skillfully adjusted the size of the button, and fitted it in.
Then he did a functional check.
After a while, the smell of slightly burnt toast, which felt out of place here, filled the air.

"Repair complete."

Saying that quietly, Yuki stretched out and sat deep in his chair.
When I peeked into the powered-off toaster from a distance, I could see the heater still faintly glowing red through the dirty glass.
I'll go home without calling out to him today.
As I turned my back, I heard snoring.
I covered Yuki with a blanket and slowly closed the door without making a sound.

* * *

Three days had passed since the repair.
This morning, before opening the coffee shop, I went to wake Yuki up. His room should be on the second floor of the office, but Yuki was almost never there.
A beer can was rolling on the office table. The container from yesterday's convenience store bento was also left as it was.
While cleaning up, I stood in front of the sofa, and Yuki was sleeping, snoring as usual.
I looked at Yuki's sleeping face. Old memories came back to me. I unconsciously brought my face closer. Just as I brought my lips closer, I came to my senses. I pulled away in a hurry.

It's morning. Wake up already. A customer is coming to pick up their toaster today. Go take a shower and snap out of it!

I shake Yuki's shoulder vigorously.

You're like a mother.

I don't like this either.

After kicking Yuki out of the office, I opened the windows wide to let in some fresh air. I let my current feelings change along with it. I felt a little refreshed.

* * *

She came to pick up the toaster just after noon.
Yuki seemed more excited than usual.

The moment she saw me, she grinned.
What on earth did that smile mean?

I returned to the cafe for a moment.
I left the door open so I could see what was going on.

The two of them were talking for quite a long time in the office. Yuki was doing most of the talking. I could hear loud laughter every now and then.
After a while, Yuki finally brought the toaster out from the workshop. I went into the office too.
When he plugged it in, Yuki slowly turned it on. A moment later, the scent of toast filled the room.

Thank you very much.

That was all she said.

All that was left was to handle the payment.
Yuki never brings up money himself.
That was my job as the office clerk.

Before the cafe got on its feet, Yuki hired me as an office clerk.
I don't have to worry about making a living anymore, but I'm still doing all the administrative work for the repair shop as an extension of that.

I felt resistant to charging for repairs.
It felt like putting a price on the owner's memories, which made me feel uneasy.
In an age where you can easily get new things even if they break.
There's usually a reason why someone wants to repair something.
Well, this didn't seem like a heavy request, so it was easy to handle.

As I was looking for a moment to bring it up, she asked first.

How much is it?

It's 15,000 yen, including expenses and such.

I told her the price I had heard from Yuki beforehand.
It was certainly the price of a new one, and it felt expensive for a repair.
Would someone really repair it just for the smell?

I'm glad it was cheaper than I thought.

As she paid, she asked me a question.

“May I have a coffee at your cafe? You work there too, don't you?”

She said this after seeing me in my apron.

“Please, do have a coffee. It's on the house. It is my shop, after all. You can leave the repair item as it is.”

“Oh, so you're the owner. My apologies.”

“Customer, please come this way. Yuki, you can go back to work now.”

“Yu, what kind of way is that to talk? Ma'am, if you'd like, I'll hold a free toaster maintenance seminar at the cafe! Plus, it's all-you-can-drink!”

He really is an idiot. What does he think my shop is?

“That's an appealing offer, but I'd feel bad doing that at a cafe, and you seem busy with work, so I'll take you up on it another time. Yu-san, let's go.”

She took my hand.
I guided her to the counter and served her my signature blend.
After finishing her coffee, she said “Thank you” with a satisfied look and left immediately.
By the time I noticed the toaster, her car had already driven away.

Can people really forget things that easily?
I felt a bit unsatisfied, but I decided to let it go, remembering her expression when she saw the repaired toaster.

I can't help but laugh imagining Yuki waiting around restlessly.
I feel a little sorry for him, so maybe I'll head to the office a bit earlier than usual.

* * *

A few days later.
The cafe door opened. The bell hanging on it announced a customer.
I love the bell hanging on this door.
Unlike an electric chime, the way it rings changes depending on the person. It's interesting how a person's personality seeps through just by how they open the door. With regulars, I could often tell who it was just by the sound of the bell.

This bell has been here since the old cafe days, but the fastener was coming loose, and at first, it didn't ring properly.
Yuki fixed it for me at some point.
That was back when I was still full of anxiety. We didn't talk much back then, but it was reassuring, as if Yuki was watching over the cafe for me.

The person who rang the bell was the customer from the other day with the toaster.
After that, she had asked me to hold onto it, saying she would come to pick it up within a few days.

“Sorry about the toaster. Thank you for holding onto it for me.”

“Not at all, thank you for the other day.”

“Is the owner of the shop next door doing well?”

“He's the same as always. Still, holding a maintenance seminar at someone else's shop... that guy really is an idiot, isn't he? Thinking about it now is starting to make me angry.”

“Heh heh.”

The customer was laughing out loud. I wonder what was so funny.

I took the order and served the coffee and toast over the counter.

“Please, take your time. It might be different from your toast, but this is our pride and joy.”

The thick-sliced toast is our signature item. It’s crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. I’m also particular about the browning. And I serve it with seasonal jam. Right now, it’s strawberry jam. I don’t think you can easily find homemade, chunky, jam-packed preserves like this anywhere else.

“You can pick up your toaster on your way home. Please don’t forget it this time.”

“Thank you. I’ll do that. This place feels more like a traditional coffee shop than a cafe. The food is delicious, and I love this atmosphere.”

I couldn’t help but smile.

“It was originally my parents’ shop, but it hadn’t been open for a long time. I started it as a new shop two years ago. I didn’t have much money, so the interior is just as it was back then.”

“On the contrary, that’s what makes it good. I think it would be quite popular if it were in a better location.”

“I can’t imagine it becoming popular. There are so many other wonderful shops out there. Besides, I’m already at my limit as it is.”

“I wonder about that. I think it would be quite a hit.”

I tried to imagine it when she said that, but I couldn’t picture it at all.

“So, how are things with him?!”

I choked and started coughing.

“What do you mean, ‘how are things’?!”

“You know exactly what I mean.”

“Right now, it’s not like that.”

“You really are bad at lying. I should have taken a picture of your face when you were looking at him.”

“I’m not lying!”

Getting worked up was counterproductive.

"Well then, first I'll tell you what you seem to want to know. Then you can tell me more about yourself."

She continued without waiting for my reply.

"The reason I wanted to fix the toaster. You looked like you wanted to ask about that the other day, didn't you?"

It was true that I had been curious about it for a long time. In fact, even just the smell of the toaster had piqued my interest quite a bit.

"Then, please tell me."

I found myself leaning forward unconsciously.

"I was living with a man a while ago. Somewhere along the way, I ended up acting like his mother. I just can't help but take care of deadbeat guys."

I nodded vigorously in agreement.
She brought her coffee to her lips before continuing.

"After we started living together, we began eating toast every morning. We always ate breakfast together."

She was crushing the strawberries from the jam she had put on her toast with the back of her spoon.

"After a while, he died suddenly. They said he collapsed at work. Honestly, I was planning on breaking up with him, so I was fine."

She continued while spreading the jam over her toast.

"In reality, I didn't feel any emotion at all."

"After he died, I stopped eating toast too.
My life returned to my own pace. Everything went back to normal as if nothing had happened. That was what scared me."

I listened in silence the whole time.

"So, I thought if I ate toast like I used to, I might feel something, so I toasted it in that toaster and ate it. But I didn't feel anything."

"Maybe I'm broken."

I still couldn't say anything, and could only stare intently at her face.

"Even so, I would toast and eat it sometimes. Then, after a while, the toaster broke. I happened to have another one, so I used a different one to make toast that day."

She took a sip of her coffee. I could hear it flowing down her throat.

"Then, you see, the smell was different. Completely different. And for some reason, tears started to fall. I toasted bread in the same toaster on another day, but this time, no tears came out."

"That's why I wanted to smell that scent one more time."

I gave a small nod.

"When I was told here at first that I should just buy a new one, I intended to go home right then. But I found myself talking about the smell without even realizing it. I said something unnecessary."

She drank some coffee to steady her pace.

"Maybe, in truth, I wanted you to fix me. I was just too scared to take the toaster home. I'm sorry for being so selfish."

I instinctively grabbed both of her hands.

"You are not broken at all. So please don't say things like 'fix me'."

"There, there, don't cry. Thank you."

I realized my vision was blurring as she said that. For some reason, I was the one being comforted.

"Next time, I'll bring the toaster home."

Her voice was soft.
I felt that everything would be alright.

Chapter 2: "The Washing Machine and the Button Amulet"

It was a while after the sun had set.
When the door bell rang, a customer walked in.
She was a young woman in glasses wearing a suit. She was a regular who always came by for dinner.
Since Yuki often ate his dinner around this time, they were frequently here at the same time.
She didn't talk much, and there was almost no conversation other than her orders. Instead, I had seen her many times answering her smartphone even though it was late.
Just a moment ago, it seemed she was talking to someone who appeared to be her boss. She was apologizing profusely. She always had a bit of a slouch, but she was even more hunched over while on the phone.
Right after she hung up, she voiced her complaints out loud.

"I know that. If I don't get at least one day off, I can't even ask for a washing machine repair. Laundromats aren't cheap, either."

It seemed her washing machine was broken. A repairman happened to be right in front of her. I thought about suggesting she ask him for a repair, but if she was that busy, I figured it would be impossible. I was surprised, as I thought Yuki would just let it slide.

"Um, excuse me."

Yuki approached the table where she was sitting and called out to her apologetically.

Actually, I run a repair shop next door, and I also handle on-site repairs. I can fix washing machines too, so I thought I'd mention it in case you were interested. I'm sorry if this is an inconvenience.

He said that as he handed over his business card.

Thank you. That's a very kind offer, but I can't take time off during the day myself.

You do seem busy. I couldn't help but overhear. If you'd like, I can come at a later time if you specify one. Only if it's not a bother, of course.

Really?

Her eyes sparkled for a moment, but her expression clouded over the next instant.

Oh, but, after all, it would be an inconvenience, wouldn't it...

Yuki sensed this and added.

I can provide a rough estimate beforehand. Also, since you might be worried about a man coming alone, it's possible for her to accompany me. That's fine, right, Yu?

Yuki said, looking at me.
I replied with a smile.

Of course. If it's after we close the shop, the time will be fine.

For Yuki, that was a very thoughtful suggestion. Honestly, I hadn't thought that far ahead.

In that case, I would love for you to do it.

Her eyes sparkled again. Her anxiety seemed to have been wiped away.

It was decided that we would go for the repair the very next day.
Right after closing the shop, we headed to the customer's place in a rental car driven by Yuki. It's a bit of a distance, but given the circumstances, it couldn't be helped.

Yuki was quiet in the car.
Come to think of it, there was something that bothered me this morning.

Weren't you having a nightmare this morning?

I asked him right then when I went to wake him up, but he brushed it off at the time.

I had a dream about my previous job.

What kind?

It doesn't matter.

Only the sound of the car engine and the road noise from the tires echoed inside the vehicle.

She seems to have a tough job, doesn't she?

I tried saying something harmless.

Yeah, I suppose.

It didn't seem like he found the conversation tedious; rather, he seemed to be thinking about something.

Is there something bothering you?

Yeah. Whenever I see her at the cafe, she always looks exhausted, doesn't she? And the things she talks about on the phone don't sound very good either. I didn't mean to eavesdrop, though.

I was surprised. I had assumed he was thinking about washing machine repair procedures. To think Yuki would be lost in thought over someone else.

Do you want to ask her what's going on?

Don't be an idiot, don't do that.

I thought that was certainly true.

We arrived in front of her house. It was an apartment facing a narrow alley. Since there was no parking, we turned back and parked the car in a coin-operated parking lot. I tried to take the tool case out of the trunk, wanting to be of some help, but it was so heavy I couldn't move it at all.

Watch out.

Saying that, Yuki lifted the tool case easily with one hand.

Let's go.

There was no elevator in the five-story apartment building. We climbed the stairs to the fourth floor. I was exhausted, as expected. Yuki seemed the same.

This is... tough, isn't it?

Yeah, it is.

I cursed myself for my lack of exercise lately. I thought this staircase must be grueling for a tired body coming home from work. We arrived at the front door, but I couldn't bring myself to press the intercom because I couldn't catch my breath.

Ready? I'm going to press it.

Yeah.

When the chime rang, there was a clattering sound from inside the room.
A while later, a voice was heard from the intercom.

"Who is it?"

"I'm here for the washing machine repair."

The door opened.
Standing there was a timid-looking woman wearing fluffy loungewear. She was like a completely different person from when she was at the cafe. Perhaps because she was nervous, her large eyes behind her glasses were darting around restlessly.

"Please, come in. It's small, so please be careful."

It certainly couldn't be called spacious by any stretch of the imagination. Was the washing machine really inside? Thinking it would be better not to overstay my welcome, I immediately got to the point.

"Where is the washing machine?"

"It's this way."

In a narrow gap in the dressing room, there was a top-loading washing machine squeezed in perfectly.

"The water never fills up, and it won't move on to the next step."

"I'll check it. Could you wait over there while I work?"

After a short pause, she looked directly at me and said,

"Understood."

I left the dressing room along with the customer.

"You must be busy with work."

I said that to fill the silence.

"Yes, um, thank you for today. You don't usually work at this hour, do you?"

"That's true, but since it's a private shop, please don't worry about it."

"I'm sorry..."

I might have made her feel unnecessarily self-conscious. I decided to stop saying anything extra. A long silence followed.
Then, suddenly, as if she had just remembered something, she began to speak.

“My parents bought me this washing machine when I moved to Tokyo. That’s why I was a bit hesitant to replace it. Not to mention, I don’t have much money.”

“I see. I understand.”

Perhaps that long silence earlier was her trying to be considerate and think of something to say.

“Repair complete.”

Yuki’s voice rang out. His efficiency is a lifesaver.

“A clothing button and some lint were stuck in the drain valve. It seems the valve couldn’t close completely, which is why the water wouldn’t stay in. No parts needed replacing, so just the labor fee will be fine.”

He said this while handing her the button. He only gave her the button; it seemed he had already removed the lint.
Finally, he ran the washing machine to show her that the water was holding. Yuki signaled to me with his eyes. I nodded in response and then spoke.

“The amount is as stated in the estimate. Also, please sign these documents.”

After she finished the payment, she said this at the entrance as we were leaving.

“Thank you so much. My anxiety about the laundry is gone, and I feel a bit more at ease. I think I can keep going a little longer.”

I was genuinely happy to hear that, but Yuki looked a bit dissatisfied.

“Trying too hard can be a problem, you know. Next time, you might be the one who breaks down.”

He meant it. He wasn’t smiling at all.

“Well, make sure to give your soul a wash, too. Just kidding!”

To me, it just looked like Yuki was scrambling to cover his tracks. She was laughing, but I couldn’t bring myself to smile.
It left an impression on me that she kept clutching the button that had come out of the washing machine until the very end.

Yuki was quiet during the drive back as well.

“You’re really amazing, Yuki, being able to fix even a washing machine.”

I found myself saying something harmless again.

“Yeah.”

His reply showed absolutely no interest.

“It’s good that there were repairs to do this month, too.”

“I’d be fine if there weren’t.”

“Why?”

“Because I also do technical consulting for companies from time to time.”

I didn’t know that. No wonder he seemed so relaxed. Still, Yuki seems distracted today. Usually, he would have brushed me off. Then, Yuki started talking.

“I just couldn’t leave that girl alone when she was on the phone at the cafe.”

“It was certainly surprising that you made such an offer, Yuki.”

“She reminded me of a junior colleague from back in the day. Though that junior was a man.”

I had never heard him talk about his old job directly, so that was even more surprising. I had barely heard that he used to develop equipment at a large company.

“In what way does she resemble him?”

“He would just keep trying his best. Even though he was clumsy. He tried to live up to my expectations, too. Well, he probably badmouthed me behind my back just like she did.”

“You didn’t just ignore your junior, did you? Maybe he’s grateful to you now?”

“That’s not it. He got sick, took a leave of absence, and quit before I did.”

It was thoughtless of me to say that so lightly.

“I dreamed about that junior this morning. Someone like me is the type to break people.”

After a short pause, I chose my words carefully this time.

“I don’t know how you worked at your previous company, Yuki. But I think your feelings are reaching her now. You were thinking about her from the very beginning, weren’t you?”

“You think so?”

“Yeah.”

“I hope so.”

Silence fell between us again for a while.
Unlike before, the quiet inside the car no longer bothered me. I felt I didn't need to force a conversation.

* * *

About a month had passed since the washing machine repair.
She hadn't come to the cafe even once since then.
It had been on my mind the whole time.

"The washing machine lady hasn't been coming by lately, has she?"

I was talking to Yuki while we were eating dinner.

"It's probably just a coincidence."

"I wonder."

After finishing his dinner, Yuki went back to the office.

It was right after that. The washing machine lady walked into the cafe. Her attire had changed from a suit to office casual. And as always, there was no conversation beyond her order.
Unable to sit still, I went over to ask her myself.

"How is the washing machine doing?"

"Yes, it's working without any issues."

"It's been a while, hasn't it? Your look has changed quite a bit."

She looked around and answered in a small voice.

"I quit my previous job and was job hunting. I recently found a new company."

"I see, so that's what happened."

My eyes suddenly caught the smartphone holder hanging from her shoulder. A button that had come out during the repair the other day was dangling from the strap.

"Is that button from the other day?"

"You have a good memory. I'm using this as a good luck charm."

"A good luck charm?"

"The shirt this button was attached to is my favorite. My parents bought it for me, saying that as a working adult, I should own a few high-quality shirts."

"Your parents are very kind."

"My parents bought me both the washing machine and the shirt when I started working. So, finding this button in the washing machine feels like a message to me."

She said that while pinching the button between her fingers.

"I hadn't seen you for a while, so I was a bit worried, but I'm relieved now."

"I'm sorry about that. I think I'll be able to come by from time to time again."

"Please, do come by again. I'll be waiting for you."

There was no further conversation.
It left an impression on me that her back, which was always hunched, had straightened up a little.

Chapter 3: "The Contents of the Treasure Box"

"Chiyo-chan, have you been getting enough sleep lately?"

She looked fine at a glance, but I had been concerned about the dark circles under her eyes recently.

"Actually, just a little. I've recently started studying illustration again."

"Aren't you already good enough without having to study, Chiyo-chan?"

The pop-up signs posted all over the shop were all drawn by Chiyo-chan. Cute animals were introducing the menu.

"I'm still nowhere near good enough. I didn't get into art school, after all. I'm nowhere near ready to aim for a professional career."

"That's tough. But you mustn't push yourself too hard. If you collapse, it'll all be for nothing."

"That's certainly true. Thank you."

Chiyo-chan didn't go to a different university and was making a living as a part-timer. I think it's admirable that she's been independent for years while still chasing her dream of becoming an illustrator. When I started this coffee shop, I couldn't even live properly without Yuki's help.

Suzune-chan, who is a fan of Chiyo-chan, was at the coffee shop again today.

Suzune-chan commuted to a nearby high school by bicycle.
It started when that bicycle broke a while ago and she came in for repairs.
It seems she fell in love at first sight with the shop's pop-up signs while waiting for the repairs.
When she found out that Chiyo-chan had drawn them, she even asked to become her apprentice on the spot.

Since then, Suzune-chan has started stopping by occasionally on her way home from school.

Chiyo-chan has also taken a liking to Suzune-chan, and it seems they often meet outside the cafe as well.
Since Suzune-chan is in the art club, it seems their usual spot to meet is at the art supply store.

Chiyo-san, please teach me how to draw again today!

You can see I'm busy, can't you? I'm working right now.

Come on, just a little bit wouldn't hurt, would it?

They had this exchange every time.
Everyone in the cafe would listen to this exchange with a smile. I found it soothing as well.

Thank you both for the healing!

I said that in my heart every time.

Suzune-chan orders her usual set.

Manager, one cocoa and toast, please.

Sure. Thank you very much.

Oh, a new pop sign! It's cute!

Suzune-chan spotted the new pop sign behind me.

It's nice, right? I've been seriously studying it again lately, so I'm quite confident in it.

Chiyo-chan said proudly.

Once the cocoa and toast were ready, I headed over to the table where Suzune-chan was sitting.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Suzune-chan immediately started munching on the toast, looking like she was enjoying it.
I thought that the way she was so absorbed in eating looked a lot like the character on the pop sign.

Could it be?

I said that and looked toward Chiyo-chan. Chiyo-chan was wearing a beaming smile.
Suzune-chan didn't seem to notice our exchange.

* * *

"Yu, have you noticed?"

It was while I was cleaning the repair shop office. Yuki asked me abruptly.

"What are you talking about?"

"A bald man has been peeking into your shop from a distance for a while now."

"No way. Why would he be peeking into my shop?"

That was when it happened. The bald man headed straight for the cafe. He was holding a cardboard box in his hands.

"He's coming to the shop."

I hurried back to the cafe. I had Yuki come with me. Soon, the cafe door opened.

"Welcome!"

Chiyo-chan's cheerful voice echoed through the shop.

"Oh, it's Suzune-chan's father!"

"Huh!"

My voice overlapped with Yuki's. Suzune-chan's father? An acquaintance of Chiyo-chan's?

"Manager, it's Suzune-chan's father. ...You are her father, right?"

"Yes. But how do you know who I am? Oh, could you be Chiyo-san?"

"That's right."

"My daughter is very much in your debt."

"What on earth is going on?"

Chiyo-chan explained the situation to me. It seems Chiyo-chan had been shown photos of her father by Suzune-chan many times, so she recognized him immediately.

“What’s with that cardboard box?”

Yuki asked Suzune-chan’s father.

“This is, well, I heard from Suzune that you do repairs at this cafe, but am I in the right place?”

“I think that would be the repair shop next door.”

I looked at Yuki and said. Yuki nodded.

“Next door? My apologies. Suzune is as careless as ever.”

He said that while stroking his shaved head.
Since I understood it was about a repair, we moved to the office.

“Thank you for always taking care of my daughter. I’ve heard that everyone here treats her very well.”

“Oh, not at all, the pleasure is ours.”

I said that instinctively. Her father looked a little puzzled.

“What kind of request do you have today?”

Yuki asked.

“I’m sorry. I apologize for bothering you while you’re busy. This is what I’d like you to take a look at.”

Saying that, he took out a small box about the size of a lunch box, wrapped in cushioning material, from the cardboard box.
When he unwrapped it, a small wooden box inlaid with sparkling glass beads appeared. It looked like a box with a lock. The box itself had intricate carvings, and it looked quite expensive.

“This is a music box that Suzune and her mother used to play with often.”

“What part is broken?”

Yuki asked.

“The lock is broken, and it won’t open.”

“A lock, huh…”

Yuki’s expression became a little stern.

Suzune often listened to this music box with Misuzu. They used to play with it together, calling it their 'treasure chest'.

It seems the mother's name is Misuzu. I asked about something that had been on my mind.

Why do you want to fix this music box?

Suzune's father paused for a moment before answering.

Actually, Misuzu is no longer with us. She passed away from an illness when Suzune was small. When we were visiting Misuzu in the hospital, she and Suzune would often play with this music box together.

After a brief pause, Suzune's father continued.

Ever since Misuzu passed away, it's been painful for me to look at it. I selfishly tucked it away. It seems I accidentally broke the key when I did that.

Suzune's father had a sorrowful expression on his face.

Recently, Suzune asked me where the music box was. I had assumed she had forgotten about it. I should have just told her honestly that I broke the key, but I couldn't bring myself to do it. I want to return it to its original state for her.

Both Yuki and I fell silent for a while.

I understand. Yu, get the receipt.

Yuki said.

Yes.

I prepared the paperwork.

Honestly, handling a craft item like this is extremely difficult. It will be a time-consuming task. There is also a possibility that it cannot be repaired. The chance of damaging the box or its contents is not zero. I don't know what is inside, but if I repair it, I will be the first to see it.

Yuki was explaining more carefully than usual.

I don't mind if you look at the contents. I am aware that it will take time and money.

After entrusting the item to Yuki, Suzune's father left looking satisfied.

The repair looks like it will be tough.

Yeah, it does.

The air felt a little heavy. I tried to steer the conversation in a brighter direction.

"Suzune and her father really seemed to get along well, didn't they?"

"Yeah. Still, they're completely different."

"Do you think so? I think they're both alike in that they seem earnest at heart."

"No, they're not. How could such a cute kid be born from that father's looks?"

"That's rude. Even if they don't look alike, it's true."

"Only their eyes were identical."

Even though we knew it was rude, we both laughed.

* * *

Hiroki had been holed up in the workshop for a while now. The repair must be that difficult. Hiroki had been working almost all day without a break. He barely ate the snacks I brought him, and if I left him alone, he wouldn't eat anything at all.

Exactly one week had passed since we took in the music box.

"It might be impossible to repair it without damaging it and while keeping it in its original state."

It was an unexpected declaration of defeat.

Repairing electrical appliances and repairing crafts seemed to be different in nature. For crafts, if you scratch them or change their shape even slightly, it's no longer a repair. I remembered what Hiroki had said before.

But I was relieved that he gave up. I thought that if he kept working like that, he really wouldn't stop until he collapsed.

The next day, I called Suzune's father to explain the situation. And I asked him to come pick it up.

Hiroki was more restless than usual. He kept pacing around the room. It seemed he was still thinking about how to open the box.

"I've come to pick it up."

Suzune's father arrived.

"I understood the situation over the phone. It's not something that should be broken just to open it, and I will honestly tell Suzune that the key was broken and apologize. Thank you very much."

I am sorry I could not meet your expectations.

Yuki bowed deeply.

Oh no, I am the one who should apologize for making such an unreasonable request.

He bowed even lower than Yuki. It was then.
It was then.

Oh, it really is Dad!

Suzune-chan, who was passing by on her bicycle, called out from outside.

Dad, what are you doing?

Suzune-chan's father looked embarrassed.

I came here to talk about a repair.

A repair?

This one. The music box Suzune was talking about. Actually, it seems I broke the key. I am sorry.

He held up the music box that could not be fixed.

This is it! This brings back memories.

When Suzune-chan received the music box, she took it in her hands and looked at it from various angles.

Maybe the key was broken from the beginning. So, were you able to fix it?

Is that so?

Suzune-chan's father seemed surprised.
He seemed to be struggling with how to answer regarding the repair results, out of consideration for Yuki.

Unfortunately, I could not repair it this time.

Yuki said from the side. I think not telling lies or making excuses is one of Yuki's good points.

Suzune, was it really broken from the beginning?

Suzune-chan's father checked with a worried look.

"Yeah. Because I was playing with this broken key."

Everyone except Suzune-chan looked blankly at her.

"Suzune, what do you mean by that?"

"I'll show you what I mean right now."

Suzune-chan took off the hairpin that was holding back her bangs. Then, holding the music box with both hands, she applied a little force and began to pull the lid diagonally.

"Ah, probably here."

She pushed the hairpin into a small gap that had formed in the box.

Click. A metallic sound echoed.

"It opened! It really is nostalgic."

When the lid opened, the song "To the Future" began to play. However, there was nothing inside the box.

That it would open so easily. Yuki seemed unable to hide his surprise. Her father's mouth was half-open.

"What about the contents?"

Suzune-chan's father asked.

"It doesn't look like there's anything in it. But that's fine."

Suzune-chan continued.

"Dad, I remember this music box well. This way of opening it was a secret between Mom and me. Since it doesn't open with a key, it feels like a secret, right? Mom really kept it a secret, didn't she?"

"In other words, it was a misunderstanding that I thought I broke the key when I put it away."

"I think so."

Suzune-chan's father had an indescribable expression on his face. And then he asked Suzune-chan one question after another.

Why were you looking for a music box after all this time? And what do you mean it doesn't matter if it's empty?

Suzune-chan said.

I wanted to put my 'treasure' in a music box.

No one could understand what Suzune-chan was saying.

Suzune-chan, what do you mean?

I asked instinctively.

I don't remember much about my mother, but I remember this 'treasure box' very well.

She said that and explained.

Even when my mother was in the hospital, every time I went to see her, I played with this box. It was fun that it wouldn't open with a key, and I always put secret letters inside. I couldn't write much back then, so there were a lot of pictures, and I think I sometimes tried my best to write things like 'I love you' and put them in.

Suzune-chan said while looking at the music box.

On the way home, my mother would put various things in it, like pictures, letters, or candies, but there was a day when she probably felt unwell during the visit and I brought the box home empty.

The next time I went to see her, she told me something like, 'When the box is empty, put your own treasures in it and cherish them.' It's a bit hazy, though.

That's a lovely story.

I looked at Yuki. His eyes seemed to be glistening, if only slightly. Yuki kept his head down the whole time. Suzune-chan's father said quietly.

So, you remembered about the music box the whole time?

Yeah. I didn't say anything because Dad looked like he was having a hard time. But I thought it might be okay now. I've found something I want to put in the box.

Suzune, I'm sorry for making you worry about me all this time.

When he said that, Suzune-chan's father was shedding tears.

I don't mind, Dad. Don't cry.

Suzune-chan said.

"That's true. Misuzu liked fun things, too."

Beside me, Yuki was rubbing his eyes repeatedly.

"Yuki, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Don't worry about me."

As he said that, he blew his nose loudly.

Suzune-chan started humming along to the music box melody. That was when it happened. The bell on the coffee shop door rang softly.

"I should head back to the coffee shop soon."

I felt as if the bell had rung in time with Suzune-chan's humming.

* * *

That night, Yuki was having a drink alone at the office. He was drinking whiskey, even though he usually drank beer.

"You're drinking something different today. Come to think of it, your father liked whiskey, didn't he, Yuki?"

"Yeah. I suppose so."

Yuki had a slightly stern expression on his face.

"Hey, what kind of person was your father, Yuki?"

"You know him, don't you?"

It was true that I had met him many times, but we had only ever exchanged greetings. Besides, it had been a long time since I went to his funeral.

"I know, but I mean, what was he like from your perspective?"

"He was stubborn, didn't really listen to people, and was a typical workaholic."

"That sounds just like you, Yuki."

"Cut it out."

Yuki's expression softened slightly.

"Take it easy, okay?"

After checking that the coffee shop was locked up, I peeked into the office once more, and it looked like Yuki had fallen asleep on the sofa.

"Good grief."

When I went inside to at least tidy up the trash, Yuki started talking.

"How would you have repaired it, Dad?"

It seemed to be sleep-talking. He was speaking quite clearly.

"As if I'd believe in that occult nonsense about feelings dwelling inside things!"

It seemed he was arguing with his father in his dream. The way he was speaking now reminded me of Yuki when he was in high school.

"Are you saying I can't repair it?!"

The frown between his eyebrows was so intense that I instinctively smoothed it out with my finger.

"It's okay. You can fix it, Yuki."

The sleep-talking stopped. For a while, I couldn't take my eyes off Yuki's sleeping face.

* * *

A few days later. Suzune-chan had come to see Chiyo-chan as usual. It seemed she was on her way back from buying art supplies.

Suzune-chan was drawing something intently at a table in the coffee shop.

"What are you drawing?"

"Oh, Manager. I'm writing a letter to my mom right now. Well, it's just a design, though. Oh, that's right, please look at this. It's a Rotring pen I bought with my part-time job money!"

A Rotring, it seems, is a pen for design work. She must have stopped by to show it off to Chiyo-chan.

"What kind of letter is it?"

Here it is. I just finished it.

Saying that, she showed me the design lettering drawn on a pure white sheet of paper.

Thank you, Mom.

It was written in large letters. A typeface that was rounded and soft, yet stable. It was full of Suzu-ne's personality.

It's lovely.

Thank you. Chiyo-san, please take a look and give me some advice too!

Chiyo-chan leaned in to look.

I think it's good.

Please give me proper advice. You're being so casual about it.

I told you before, didn't I? To imagine the place where the work is supposed to be.

Perhaps that is why Chiyo-chan's pop illustrations fit the image of this cafe so perfectly.

That's why I brought the place where it's supposed to be, too.

It's a beautiful box.

Chiyo-chan looked at the music box with a serious expression. She was examining even the fine details of the decorations.

Chiyo-chan looked at Suzu-ne's design again before speaking.

I think the lettering design is good.

Thank you so much!

When Suzu-ne opened the music box, the melody of "To the Future" began to play. After carefully folding the letter and putting it away, she gently closed the box. There was a slight metallic sound as it locked.

Right now, we were the only ones in the cafe. The silence after the music box stopped playing was also pleasant.

Chapter 4: "Was the computer fixed?"

Yuki was at the counter. It was his lunch break between jobs.
Though, since there are no job requests right now, it doesn't feel like there's much of a "between".

"Yu-chan, I'll have the Napolitan today, please."

Azusa-san was sitting at the table near the entrance again today. She's a regular at the cafe. I heard she's turning seventy this year, but she's quite energetic. I think the sound of the name "Azusa" is youthful and lovely, too.

"Understood. Please wait a moment."

Talking to Azusa-san naturally makes me smile.

"Sorry to keep you waiting. It's hot, so be careful."

My tone of voice lightens up without me thinking.
Azusa-san finished it in no time.
That appetite must be the secret to her vitality.
Even so, she was eating it so deliciously.

"I wanted the Napolitan too."

Yuki muttered from beside me.
I gave him a light flick on the forehead.

"Was the sandwich not tasty?"

"Whoa, scary. No violence!"

"The sandwich is delicious, isn't it?"

I poke his cheek with my finger.

"It is delicious."

"Good."

"You two are always so close. It reminds me of when my husband was still around."

"That's not true!"

My voice and Yuki's were perfectly in sync.
Azusa-san laughed out loud.

"Come to think of it, can you repair computers too? I have one at home that my husband used to use."

I feel like it's been a long time since I heard the word 'computer'.

"Yes, of course."

Yuki replied.

"Then, would you mind coming to pick it up next time? I'll pay the pickup fee properly, too. And Yu-chan, you should come along as well. I have delicious cookies and all sorts of things."

"Yes, I'd love to!"

"Since when did this shop become an izakaya?"

After saying that, Yuki looked into the distance, lost in thought.
I had a feeling I was about to be fed like a pet.

* * *

Yuki scheduled the day to pick up the computer to coincide with my shop's day off.
I could have gone along as part of my job, but since I was lured by sweets, I would have felt guilty the whole time.
I would have been worried about the coffee shop while I was away. But on my day off, I can enjoy myself to the fullest. I really thought he knew my personality well.

"Yu, let's go."

Yuki said bluntly.

"Wait. Do I look strange?"

"I don't think you look strange. You're wearing a skirt instead of trousers today, aren't you?"

"What do you mean 'I think'? And call them slacks, not trousers."

My voice bounced with excitement.
Come to think of it, I've been so busy lately that it's been a while since I've gone out in my own clothes.

"Let's go."

Yuki started the engine of the rental car he had borrowed.

"Off we go! It feels a bit like a date. It reminds me of the old days."

Yuki fell silent. I suddenly felt uncomfortable.
I was glad Azusa-san's house was close by.

"We're already here."

Well, it's within walking distance, after all.

It's a mansion.

Yeah...

We were both overwhelmed. When we rang the intercom, the gate opened automatically. We parked the car inside and headed toward Azusa-san.

Welcome, Yu-chan. Please come in, Yuki-san.

Today, she had gone out of her way to greet us in a kimono. Her usual casual clothes were elegant and lovely, but the kimono suited her even more.

That is a very lovely kimono. It suits you well.

Yu-chan's outfit is also wonderful. Well, since you're beautiful on the inside, anything suits you.

Seeing me grin, Yuki made his usual snide remark.

Clothes make the man, I suppose.

I clenched my fist tightly. I managed to resist the urge to swing it at him. We were guided to a spacious living room, and the snack party began immediately. There were many unfamiliar overseas snacks lined up. It was pure bliss.

By the way, what about the repair?

Yuki, losing his patience, asked Azusa-san.

Oh, I was having so much fun I forgot.

I had forgotten too.

Then, shall I have you take a look at it?

We were led into the study. Everything was yellowed from cigarette tar. A distinct smell also stung my nose. In the center of the desk sat a very old CRT-style computer. The keyboard, which should have been white, was also yellowed with tar.

This is a computer?

That's right. I'm not very knowledgeable about it, but I was often told boastful stories about how it was the latest model.

What part is broken?

Yuki asks.

"It won't turn on. If I knew what was broken, I wouldn't be asking you."

That was certainly true.

"I should mention, I might see your data during the repair, and in some cases, it might be erased. Is that okay?"

"That's not a problem."

"May I try turning it on?"

"Yes."

Yuki presses the power button. For a split second, text appeared on the screen, but it vanished immediately. A beep echoed through the room.

"I see."

Yuki rested his hand on his chin.

Yuki's serious expression, it really is nice. Huh? My head feels a bit fuzzy. My legs felt a little unsteady.

"Wait, Yu-chan, are you drunk from the whiskey bonbons?"

That's right, I might have eaten almost a whole box by myself. They were so delicious, I forgot they contained alcohol.

"I'm sorry. Come on, Yu, pull yourself together!"

Before I knew it, I was being supported by Yuki and loaded into the car along with the computer.

"You're heavy."

Yuki said something rude, but my body felt so sluggish I couldn't react.

"I'm counting on you. Both for Yu-chan and the computer."

It sounded like someone was still talking, but the voice kept fading further and further away. The vibration of the car felt pleasant. I must have fallen asleep just like that. When I came to, I was slumped on the office sofa. My consciousness was drifting, and I couldn't open my eyes.

I felt like I heard Yuki talking to himself. Was it a dream?

First, I'll open the case and clean out the dust. It turned on for a split second, so it's possible the fan wasn't spinning and it overheated. The memory is quite old. If that doesn't work, I'll look for parts at a junk shop. At worst, if I can at least extract the data, that should be enough, right?

What Yuki was saying sounded like a story from a distant land. In other words, it was all Greek to me.
That was just right for a lullaby.
I fell into a deep sleep once again.

Repair complete.

Those words made me wake up suddenly. The repair didn't seem to be a dream after all.

The repair is finished?

Yeah, I'm going to run a performance check now.

Saying that, Yuki turned on the power.
After white text was displayed, a colorful startup screen appeared this time.

I was right, the dust was preventing the fan from spinning, causing it to overheat.

It's making a really loud rattling noise, is that okay? It's been stuck on this screen for a while.

It's fine. Old hard drives make sounds like this. Besides, it was normal for them to be this slow back then.

It's so slow it's unusable. Azusa-san, why did you want to fix it?

Apparently, her husband used to sit in front of this and grin all the time. She wanted to know what he was looking at.

I think Azusa-san said that when she was leaving, but my memory of that part was hazy.

The computer was still booting up.

Oh, it started!

The desktop screen appeared.

Wait, you've got to be kidding me...

The words slipped out.

This is bad.

Yeah... this might be trouble.

The desktop background was a photo of a man and woman looking quite intimate. The woman was definitely not Azusa-san.
The thought that he might have been grinning while looking at this made me feel sick. Why on earth would he choose a photo like this for his wallpaper?

“Just pretend you couldn't fix it.”

The words slipped out of my mouth.

“I can't do that.”

“Why not! There’s no way Azusa-san would be happy seeing something like this!”

“That may be, but this is a repair request, nothing more.”

“So you’re just going to show it to her as is?”

“I have no other choice.”

“You could just say you couldn't fix it and be done with it! Is being able to fix things really that great? You haven't fixed this at all!”

“There are things you should say and things you shouldn't! What do you know about anything! I’m just doing my job! Just go home already!”

Something inside me snapped.

“Fine. I’m sorry. But I won’t let you hand this over.”

Leaving the CRT monitor and keyboard behind, I grabbed the computer tower and left the room. I don't even remember how I carried it out.
It might just be delaying the inevitable. But it was the only way I could think of to keep Azusa-san from being hurt.

Yuki didn't say a word.
He didn't move an inch, just took deep breaths, like a broken machine.

* * *

The next morning.
Yuki was sleeping in his room, which was unusual.

I entered the office and tidied up the room.
Even after what happened, I still went about my routine as usual.

After I finished cleaning, I left a note that said “Repair Fee” and 20,000 yen in cash on the table.
Once Yuki accepts a request, he’ll see it through to the end unless there’s a very good reason not to.
Yuki’s pride is stubborn. That’s why I wanted to force the request to an end.
I still hadn't thought of how to explain it to Azusa-san.

I left the office and immediately went to the cafe counter.

“Manager, are you okay?”

"What do you mean?"

I regretted that my tone had become a bit harsh.

"You look pale. I'll be fine on my own, so please go rest if you're not feeling well."

"I'm fine. I'd be worried if it were just you, Chiyo-chan."

"That's mean. Please smile when you're joking!"

I thought I had shown her a smile.
Chiyo-chan said, looking straight at me.

"If you collapse on me, Manager, I'll be in trouble, and so will all the customers in this shop. I'm here because I want to work with you, Manager!"

I think this might be the first time I've seen Chiyo-chan speak so seriously.

"Thank you, Chiyo-chan."

I felt as if my body had become a little lighter.

A little while later, the entrance door opened. The bell rang.

"Yu-chan, good morning!"

It was Azusa-san. What should I do?
I didn't know what kind of face to make, so I instinctively fled into the repair shop's office. Fortunately, Yuki wasn't in the office.

"Yuki, what on earth is going wrong?"

I muttered to myself.
It's already lunchtime. This is the busiest time of the day. Chiyo-chan surely can't handle it alone.
I straightened my apron, took a deep breath, and returned to the cafe.

"Are you okay, Yu-chan?"

Azusa-san's kindness pierced me like an arrow.

"I'm fine."

I was calmer than before.

"By the way, is the computer repair going well?"

It seems like you're having a bit of a hard time.

I found myself telling a lie.

Is that so? That's surprising.

I couldn't say anything.

I think I'll have another cup of coffee.

For some reason, Azusa-san ordered more. Even after a long time had passed, Azusa-san remained in the shop.

I'm hungry, could I have some Napolitan?

It was already dinner time. Chiyo-chan was naturally starting to get concerned and asked me in a low voice.

Manager, is something going on? Azusa-san has been here all day, hasn't she?

I made a promise to her after closing. That's all. So don't worry about it and head home.

I see. Well then, I'll be heading out first.

I lied again. Finally, it was closing time.

Azusa-san, we're closed.

Yu-chan, you made a promise to me, didn't you? I don't want to make you a liar.

Perhaps she had heard my exchange with Chiyo-chan. I asked her point-blank.

Why did you decide to fix your husband's computer?

Just a whim. By the way, Yu-chan, you had a fight with Hiroki-san, didn't you? And wasn't I the cause?

No, that's not it. It's not your fault, Azusa-san!

Oh no. I didn't mean to say that much.

I knew it, that was the case.

You see right through everything, don't you.

I haven't lived this long for nothing. Well, it's also that you're just too easy to read, Yu-chan.

Saying that, Azusa-san beckoned me over.

Yu-chan, could you come over here for a second?

I sat down next to Azusa-san. The next moment, I was pulled in by both her hands. I could feel Azusa-san's heartbeat.

I'm truly sorry. I suppose there were some strange photos on the computer, weren't there? You saw them, didn't you.

I couldn't say anything.

I hit the mark. I had a rough idea of what was on the computer. I wanted to peek at what that cheating bastard had been hiding. I was going to complain while deleting the data one by one. In the end, I was going to throw the computer away, too. It's a revenge I never could have carried out if I were still alive.

For the sake of... revenge?

Yes. But I never imagined you would see it. I'm truly sorry.

I felt there were no lies in her words. But something was bothering me. I couldn't help but confirm the true nature of that sense of unease.

The many photos displayed in the living room were taken at the nearby park, weren't they? You looked so happy in them, Azusa-san.

I felt as if Azusa-san's heartbeat had quickened slightly.

Yes, but why do you ask?

I pulled away from Azusa-san and continued.

Those photos covering the wall, many of them were taken at the same park. And you kept adding more, timed with the cherry blossom season. I felt the accumulation of time, and I thought it was wonderful. Your husband took those photos, didn't he?

Azusa-san said nothing.

Wasn't it actually that you wanted to confirm whether his feelings for you remained?

You are so straightforward, Yu-chan. That might be part of it, too. But I just didn't want things to remain ambiguous like this.

Azusa-san said with a smile.

Do you know? You can't even have a fight if the other person isn't alive. So, even though it's too late, I realized I wouldn't mind having a fight. Now, I'm the one who gets to decide everything, including whether or not to forgive.

The person standing there was an Azusa I didn't know.
I was drawn to that strength, but at the same time, I felt overwhelmed by it.
I couldn't afford to lose. I felt like I had been given a boost of momentum.

There is something I need to tell you.

As I said that, I carried the computer out from the cafe's storage room.
Was it always this heavy?

This is it.

The repair is finished. It's true that I looked inside without permission. I am truly sorry. But I don't want to return this.

I conveyed my feelings exactly as they were, without hiding anything.

I didn't want to see the look of disappointment on Azusa's face.
More than that, I absolutely hated the idea of seeing people get hurt by Yuki's repairs.

Thank you for telling me. But I need to take this back.

Her tone was stronger than usual. I even felt a little bit of fear.

No.

I was being stubborn.
We continued this meaningless conversation for a while.
Then, suddenly, the door behind the counter opened.

So it really was you, Azusa.

Were you eavesdropping on us?!

As if. You two were just being loud.

I'm going to get it ready.

Saying that abruptly, he picked up the computer with ease and headed back to the office. While I was left dumbfounded, for some reason, Azusa was smiling.
Yuki was halfway forceful. I had no choice but to follow his lead.

With nothing to do, I decided to brew some coffee.
The shelves were lined with my favorite coffee beans.
The labels had my feelings written on them just as they were.
From ordinary ones like "Bittersweet," "Mild," and "Sweet,"
to things like "Kind" and "Strong,"
or "Cool," "Mischievous," and "Acting like a big shot,"
and even things like "Clown" and "Moody."
Since the beans insist on their personalities to me just like humans do, it's no wonder they ended up with labels like these.
I combine them to create a single flavor.
I love this process. It's one of the reasons I started this cafe.
As I ground the beans with the electric mill, the aroma filled the shop.
I had forgotten all about Azusa and was completely absorbed in my work.

Here you go.

Thank you.

It's quite a good flavor. Though it's a bit bitter and strong for my taste.

I felt like she wasn't talking about the coffee.

I'm ready.

Yuki called out from the office.
I spoke up on Azusa-san's behalf.

Wait until I finish my coffee.

* * *

When I went to the office next door with Azusa-san,
a CRT monitor and a keyboard were connected to the computer. The power was not yet on.

Are the three of us going to look at that image? The thought made me feel depressed.
If I accidentally spilled my coffee right now, would it break again?

Yuki turned on the power.
The monitor was facing Azusa-san.
The computer was making a loud rattling noise. I hoped the startup screen would just go on forever.

It's on.

I instinctively looked away.
But I had no choice but to look.

......Ah.

I immediately swallowed my words.
The image from yesterday was not displayed there.
Just a bright blue, inorganic, solid-colored background.

How is it? It seems like dust was the cause.

Looking closely, I noticed a new mouse had been connected at some point.

The data folder is still there. Could you check it for me?

Yes.

I handed her the mouse. Her movements were slow, but Azusa-san opened the folder labeled "Cherry Blossoms" on the desktop without hesitation. Then, she opened one of the images.

This is...

There was a young Azusa-san in the park, looking happily at the cherry blossoms. Several others were the same. The folder was full of photos of Azusa-san.

Yuki, I, I'm sorry, Azusa-san, I'm so sorry!

You don't have to cry. You're making me want to cry too.

I wiped my tears on Yuki's back. I got plenty of snot on him too.

By the way, when I repaired it, I reset the wallpaper settings to their defaults. Other than that, I didn't look at or change anything. The wallpaper image data is still in the trash. You can restore it anytime as long as you don't empty it. If you don't need it, you can delete it from the trash too.

I understand. Yuki-san, thank you so much.

Azusa-san seemed to understand what Yuki meant.

I'm glad I could fix it.

Yuki's blunt reply left an impression on me.

Yuki-san, you really care about Yu-chan, don't you?

I wanted to deny it immediately, but the words wouldn't come out.

After that, I received payment, and we drove Azusa-san and the computer back in the rental car. It seems he failed to return the rental car yesterday. Yuki kept talking about the late fees, but I think it turned out for the best. I'm not sure if he's obsessed with money or not.
Azusa-san gave me a cream puff on the way back.

Yuki is such an annoying guy, isn't he?

Hey, either eat or talk, pick one.
If you spill that, I'm charging you for the cleaning.

It's fine. I'm being careful. Whoops.

She almost spilled the cream.

But why is he so thoughtful when it comes to repairs? If he had just told me from the start, I wouldn't have had to go through such an unpleasant experience.

It's because you told me it wasn't fixed. I thought about what I could do on my own.

So that's what happened.

Your childish attitude makes me angry every time. But this time, I'm grateful. Thank you.

The car arrived at the office.

Oh! Come to think of it, I forgot about the 20,000 yen. Make sure you pay me back later.

Yuki suddenly looked at me with a serious expression.
My heartbeat grew louder.

You've got cream on your face.

He used his finger to wipe the cream from my mouth.
That idiot!

Pay me back the 20,000 yen!

That was for the repair costs, wasn't it!

Saying that, he laughed and jumped out of the car.

Chapter 5: Stuffed Animals and Illustrations

This is it. Can you fix it?

Chiyo-chan took a stuffed animal out of a plastic bag with a cute pattern on it.

It was dirty all over, the buttons for its eyes and nose had fallen off, and it was impossible to tell what kind of expression it once had. Its arms looked like they were about to fall off at any moment.

This was given to me by my grandmother, who taught me how to draw.

She thrust the stuffed animal in front of Yuki.

Since you say things as if you can see right through my feelings, show me that you can fix anything!

Chiyo-chan was provoking Yuki.
This was a challenge from Chiyo-chan.

* * *

A few days ago.

The coffee shop had already closed for the day. Even after cleaning up, Chiyo-chan showed no signs of going home.
There was no doubt she had something she wanted to talk about.

Chiyo-chan, is there something bothering you?

No, I'm fine.

Unable to bear the silence, I decided to brew some coffee. I silently chose the beans from the shelf and focused on the blending process.
While I worked, the shop filled with the aroma of coffee. It was a comforting scent.
I handed the brewed coffee to Chiyo-chan.

It's on the house.

Thank you very much.

Chiyo-chan took her time drinking it.
It must have gone cold by the end.

While drinking her coffee, Chiyo-chan kept touching the small bear keychain she was holding. It was as if she were consulting it about something. Come to think of it, I felt like many of the characters that appeared on the shop's pop-up signs were bears too.

After finishing the last drop of her coffee, Chiyo-chan said quietly.

Actually, I got a job offer to use the bear illustrations I drew.

Isn't that great? Congratulations.

But the pay is practically nothing. They told me that since I'm getting my name out there, that's just how it is at first. What do you think, Manager?

I was at a loss for how to respond.

Sorry. I don't really understand those things well, so I might not be able to give you a proper answer.

You're right. I'm sorry for asking you something so strange.

I'm the one who should be sorry for not being helpful.

Chiyo-chan still seemed like she hadn't finished talking.

There are many people in the world who can draw as well as I can. So, maybe the fact that I even got an offer is lucky. But I know myself that if I take this job, I'm just selling myself cheap.

Chiyo-chan took a deep breath and continued.

I don't want to sell myself cheap. So, I thought I would draw pictures that people would want to use even if they had to pay properly for them. But once I thought that, I found I couldn't draw at all. Why is this happening to me, I wonder?

Saying that, Chiyo-chan looked down and covered her face with her hands.
I instinctively hugged Chiyo-chan from behind.

Thank you for telling me.

"Manager."

Chiyo-chan was crying quietly. I kept holding her until she stopped crying.

* * *

The next day, Chiyo-chan came to work as usual.
I was a little concerned that her eyes were slightly red, but I was relieved to see she seemed fine.

That day, Chiyo-chan was talking to Yuki.

"I really don't think I'm cut out to be an illustrator."

"It's nice that you can make a living doing what you're good at, Yuki-san. I'm the type who keeps what I'm good at separate from my work. I'm sure of it."

Apparently, this remark bothered Yuki.

"You're acting like you know so much, even though you haven't even tried doing it as a job yet."

"I know. I'm saying that because I can't make it my job."

"Hey, you two, don't fight in the shop."

"Stay out of this, Yu." "This has nothing to do with you, Manager."

I felt a surge of anger.

"What is wrong with you two! You're both capable of doing more things than I am, yet you just say whatever you want!"

"Yu." "Manager."

They both said it almost at the same time.

"What!"

"My bad." "I'm sorry."

It was simultaneous again.
I realized I had been shouting because I was so worked up.

"Anyway, keep it quiet in the shop."

It was after this that Chiyo-chan brought out the stuffed animal.

* * *

"Please show me that you can fix this stuffed animal well."

Since it was a repair request, I couldn't be vague about it.

"Understood. I will accept the stuffed animal as a repair request. Yu, the receipt."

"Yeah."

"I'll say this as a formality, but there are times when I can't fix things. In that case, I will return it as is."

"I understand."

Hiroki headed straight to the workshop. I followed him. Usually, Hiroki starts repairs immediately. However, today he remained frozen with the stuffed animal on the desk for a long time. There was no sign of him starting the repair at all. Unable to bear it, I left the workshop.

* * *

A week passed after that. Hiroki asked me to tell Chiyo-chan to come and pick it up. I think he should just say that himself. Chiyo-chan asked me to be present as well.

"You both just say whatever you want."

The handover took place as scheduled after the cafe closed. Hiroki was waiting quietly in the office.

"I've come to pick it up."

I entered the office with Chiyo-chan.

Hiroki placed the stuffed animal on the table in silence.

"Huh?"

I let out a voice involuntarily. It was almost the same as when we received it. The dark stains had been removed and the tear in the arm had been mended, but the crucial face part was completely untouched.

"What does this mean?"

Chiyo-chan said to Hiroki.

As you can see. I cleaned off the dirt and fixed the hands. But I couldn't fix the face.

Why can't you fix it? Isn't it just a matter of sewing on a button?

I don't know what the original face of this stuffed animal looked like. I can fix dirt and tears, but I don't think it's a repair if I just make up a face on my own.

Yuki hung his head. He had a truly apologetic expression.

Then you shouldn't have said you would fix it in the first place. Are you just teasing me like that!

Chiyo-chan didn't seem convinced.

No. I intended to fix it. I thought it was a mass-produced item, so I tried to look up the original face to fix it. But I was wrong. It was a one-of-a-kind handmade item. I can't just fix that on my own.

Saying that, Yuki continued.

You're right. All that's left is to sew on the button. You know the face of this stuffed animal well, so you should fix it yourself.

I had no choice but to listen to their exchange in silence.
Chiyo-chan continued.

That's unfair.

Chiyo-chan's gaze remained fixed on Yuki.

I was having a contest on my own. I thought I would win this time.

I suppose so. That's exactly what happened.

That's a lie. Yuki-san, you didn't lose, did you!

Since I couldn't repair it, it's my loss.

Chiyo-chan was clenching both her hands tightly.

I was planning to complain if you couldn't fix it well, Yuki-san. Conversely, if it was fixed perfectly, I decided to consider it my loss. But this doesn't make for a contest!

Yuki said while looking at the stuffed animal.

I knew it was a provocation, so I actually intended to refuse. But from the moment I saw this stuffed animal, I felt like it had been asking me to fix it the whole time. I wanted to respond to that voice. You didn't bring this little one here for no reason either, did you?

Chiyo-chan bit her lip. A single large tear fell from her eye. As it traced down her cheek, it looked to me like the eye of a stuffed animal.

I want you to show me its original state using your illustration.

After a moment of silence, Chiyo-chan let out a deep sigh and spoke.
I understand.

I understand.

Chiyo-chan silently began to draw an illustration of the stuffed animal on copy paper with a ballpoint pen.

You really are good at this.

I don't know how a professional would see it, but it was a level of finish I could never hope to imitate.

Can you fix it with this?

Yeah. It's more than enough.

There, it looked just like a black-and-white photograph of the stuffed animal.

This child is the origin of my illustrations. Please, take care of it.

* * *

Today is the day to hand over the stuffed animal. I was shown it beforehand, and there it was, exactly as it appeared in the illustration. Chiyo-chan and Yuki are both truly amazing. However, there was a bandage on Yuki's hand. Perhaps he isn't very good at sewing.

This time, the stuffed animal was already placed on the table.

Becky!

Chiyo-chan hugged the stuffed animal and wore a happy expression.

The handover is complete.

Thank you so much. I really wanted to fix this child sooner. But I was always hesitant, fearing that if it wasn't fixed well, it wouldn't be Becky anymore.

Chiyo-chan said while hugging Becky.

I thought that if it were you, Yuki-san, I could entrust it to you. Even if it ended up with a different face, I felt I could accept that more than if I had tried to fix it myself.

That didn't really sound like the way you'd make a request, though.

That was just me taking my frustration out while making a request. It felt frustrating to just ask for a favor, so... I'm sorry.

You really aren't honest with yourself, are you?

Well, I guess that's just typical Chiyo-chan.

Also, actually, after drawing Becky, I feel like I've regained my sense for illustration. So I'm grateful. I really am.

Isn't that great!

I took Chiyo-chan's hand and rejoiced.

But I still don't think I'm cut out to be an illustrator.

That was an unexpected thing to say.

I don't have enough confidence in my illustrations yet to make a living doing what I love, like you or the manager, Yuki-san.

Chiyo-chan was staring at the bandage on Yuki's hand.

I spoke slowly, choosing my words carefully.

You know, I started this cafe when I didn't know my left from my right, and at first, it didn't go well at all.

Is that so?

At first, I couldn't even make a living just from the cafe work. The reason I work a side job as a clerk for the repair shop is because Yuki helped me out back then.

I had assumed you were taking care of Yuki-san because he was hopeless.

That's not the case at all. It's the opposite. There were tough times, but I was able to keep going because so many people helped me. Maybe I was just lucky.

Watching you, Manager, I don't think it's just luck.

I wonder. Well, thanks to the cafe, I was able to meet you, Chiyo-chan, and I've been able to talk to Yuki like this again. I'm glad I did it.

I'm glad I met you too, Manager. By the way, was that last part a lovey-dovey remark?

“Huh? Oh, that’s not true!”

“Manager, your face is bright red. And Yuki, stop blushing too!”

The three of us laughed.

“I’m kind of hungry.”

“Come to think of it, me too.”

Yuki and Chiyo-chan said.

“You two are really free-spirited. I’ll treat you today as a special occasion.”

The two of them were as happy as children. I hurried to make some Napolitan.

The three of us sat in a row at the cafe counter eating. The two of them were so absorbed in eating that they were silent.

Watching the two of them, I muttered to myself.

“I want to create a place where everyone can feel at ease like this.”

Yuki said.

“Isn’t it already done?”

“That’s right. I feel like I want to live in this cafe.”

“Just because you feel that way doesn’t mean you have to come here for breakfast every single day.”

We laughed together again. After the meal, I brewed some coffee.

“Brewing coffee well is a talent, isn’t it?”

“Yeah. I think so too.”

“By the way, Manager,”

Chiyo-chan looked at me.

"What?"

"I like the manager. But I hate Yuki-san. What do you see in Yuki-san, manager?"

"You really are a nasty person."

I choked, spilling a little coffee from the mug I was holding.

"I don't like that manipulative side of yours, manager."

"You really are a blunt girl."

"I like Yuki's clumsy but sincere side."

This time, it was Yuki who choked.

"Yeah, yeah. I'll be leaving now, since I'm in the way. Thanks for the meal."

Chiyo-chan was about to leave, carrying Becky.

"Chiyo-chan, I love you too."

Chiyo-chan turned around with a smile.

"Because you're my idol, manager. And as for Yuki-san, I only hate him a little bit."

She said that and ran off.
The bell on the door kept ringing for a long time.

"You two were like something out of an old teen drama."

"Youth, huh."

I said that and looked at Yuki.

"I'm going back to the office too."

For some reason, Yuki left through the cafe door.
He muttered something while opening the door, but it was drowned out by the sound of the bell and I couldn't hear it well.

"Did you say something?"

Yuki left without answering.

Chapter 6: The Influencer's Invitation

Manager, you've had more customers lately, haven't you?

Suzune-chan was here again today.

That's true. But I'm not quite sure why. It feels a bit sudden.

Oh! Come to think of it, a famous influencer was talking about this shop the other day.

Really?!

I raised my voice.

Why would someone that famous know about my shop?

It's probably Chiyo-san. Chiyo-san's social media talks about this place a lot. And she has a lot of followers, too.

I had no idea. So, the business is booming thanks to Chiyo-chan.

Chiyo-chan hadn't arrived for her shift yet. I'll ask her when she gets here.

At this rate, will you be opening a second or third location and becoming like one of those big chain cafes?

Oh, I suppose so.

I gave a vague reply.

When you open the second shop, please hire me as the manager. Hehe.

Suzune-chan laughed mischievously.
I wonder what kind of imagination she has.

I had never thought about expanding my shop until now.
Even now, I'm barely keeping up with running this one.
I'm happy that the shop is busy, but
on the other hand, I feel a bit guilty, as if I'm pushing the repair shop into the corner.

Chiyo-chan arrived for her shift.
I immediately asked her about the influencer.

“She loves bears just as much as I do!”

Chiyo-chan told me about her, looking quite excited.
It was clear that the influencer had learned about our shop through Chiyo-chan’s social media.

After that, business at the shop continued to go well. Since we were getting full more often, I changed the layout to accommodate more people. I also pushed back the closing time by an hour.
Furthermore, Suzune-chan decided to join us as a part-time worker.
I asked Yuki if he could reduce my administrative work for a while, as I wanted to focus on the coffee shop.
I was prepared for him to complain, but he didn't say anything.

“I’m not particularly busy on this end, so don’t worry about it.”

His tone was a bit distant. It felt like he had more to say, but I decided not to press him.

One day, that influencer actually visited the shop. The shop was in a bit of a festive frenzy that day.

Everyone gets excited when a celebrity shows up.
I got carried away too and hurriedly prepared a shikishi board to ask for an autograph.

Yuki had come to watch, but he looked bored, as if he wasn't very interested.
He kept making eye contact with me. If he wasn't interested, he didn't have to come.

On the other hand, the influencer was smiling the whole time.
It happened when she was paying the bill at the end.

“This is a truly wonderful shop. Would you mind if I introduced it more widely?”

It was a very kind offer.
However, when I looked around the shop, I realized we wouldn't be able to handle any more customers than we already had.

“I appreciate the offer, but as you can see, I don't think we could handle any more customers. I’m sorry, but could you please leave things as they are for a while?”

“It wouldn't be too late to worry about that once things get busy. In fact, I think it would become an even bigger topic if a line started forming.”

“That may be true, but...”

“Then, would it be alright if I came back for an interview later?”

“That’s a kind proposal, but I’d rather not do an interview. Even if a line really did form, I don't feel like that’s the kind of shop I want.”

“I see. It’s a real shame, but I think your commitment to that is very important.”

“Thank you very much.”

I went outside to see her off. She really is a good person.

“Yu-chan, are you sure it was okay to turn down such a great opportunity?”

Azusa, a regular, called out to me immediately.

"That's right, Manager. Isn't it a waste?"

Chiyo-chan said as well.

"It's fine. If I try to act beyond my means now, I'll only be the one in trouble later. More importantly, Chiyo-chan, you barely spoke at all—are you sure you're okay with that?"

"To speak to them... that would be far too presumptuous."

"Is that how it is? Suzune-chan, for instance, was completely taken a liking to, and I don't know how it happened, but she even had her head patted."

I pointed at Suzune-chan, who was currently serving customers.

"I'm going to go pat Suzune's head later!"

Everyone burst into laughter.

"Ah, I forgot to get an autograph. The colored paper went to waste."

I said that and waved the colored paper around.

"Well, maybe I'll write something for you. It's just like calligraphy, right?"

Laughter echoed through the shop once more.

"It really is relaxing here."

Hiroki was laughing, albeit a bit late. I thought he could have at least offered a polite smile when the influencer was here.

After that, the flow of customers in the coffee shop seemed to settle down. As expected, the boom didn't last long. We returned the shop's layout to how it was before. Still, it was something to be grateful for that we had a few more customers than before.

"Manager, wouldn't it have been better to accept the interview after all?"

Suzune-chan said, looking bored.

"Maybe so. But I'm satisfied with how things are now."

I grinned as I looked at the new illustration displayed on the wall. This was a gift from Chiyo-chan to the shop.

It depicted Chiyo-chan and me sitting side-by-side at the counter, with a customer sitting in a chair with their back to us. The model sitting there was probably Yuki. In the distance, a shop assistant who looked like Suzune-chan was also drawn.

“Thank you, Chiyo-chan.”

“You’re welcome, Manager. But really, how many times is this? I feel like I’m being thanked every single day.”

“It’s still not enough.”

“I’m the one who wants to thank you even more.”

Chiyo-chan had received a job request for a bear illustration from that influencer. It seemed the pop-up display in the shop was the deciding factor. She was incredibly happy that she was able to provide the illustration at a price she was satisfied with.

This illustration had become my treasure from the moment I received it. Every day, whenever I look at this picture, it makes me smile.

Precious memories keep increasing in this cafe. I’m so glad I did this job.

Chapter 7: The Cafe’s Decision

The cafe had completely returned to its original state. However, the lingering effects of the boom still remained.

There was a customer sitting at a window seat who had ordered coffee and toast. He was a tall male customer dressed in a business suit. He had placed an expensive-looking bag on the chair opposite him. Even after finishing his meal, he kept staring outside. He seemed to be watching the people walking down the street.

I thought he was a slightly strange customer. He was somehow different from the other customers. I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease.

When it came time to pay, the customer spoke to me.

“Actually, I am with this company.”

He handed me a business card. It had the name of a major department store on it.

“Is this cafe your shop?”

“Yes, it is, but is there something wrong?”

“How long has this shop been here?”

“It has been my shop for two years, but originally, it was a shop my parents ran a long time ago.”

I see. No wonder it has such depth and a great atmosphere.

Thank you very much.

I'll be blunt. Would you like to open a branch in our department store?

Excuse me?

We want you to come to our department store.

It was such a sudden proposal that I couldn't process it. For now, we decided to borrow Yuki's office to talk somewhere else.

I apologize for the sudden offer. I saw your shop on social media the other day.

I am currently looking for tenants for the department store. So, I visited today to confirm things for myself.

The atmosphere of the coffee shop, the taste of the coffee, and the food were all wonderful. However, I felt you were losing out due to the location. Your shop should be much more successful. So, why not relocate your shop to the department store?

I was very happy that my coffee shop was recognized. But the word 'relocate' bothered me.

By relocate, do you mean closing this place down?

That's right. It would be difficult to run two shops at the same time, wouldn't it?

Yes, I suppose so.

Being able to open a shop in a department store would be a huge success for the business. It might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But the offer was so sudden that I was confused.

I'm sorry. This is all very sudden, so could you give me some time to think about it?

Of course. I look forward to hearing a positive response from you.

I saw him off from the repair shop's office. Even after returning to the coffee shop, I was thinking too much to focus on my work. I wanted to consult with someone, so I called Yuki immediately after closing.

What did that customer come here for earlier? Don't tell me it was a debt collector.

Don't be ridiculous. He was from a department store.

And?

I was invited to move to a department store.

I see.

Is that all you have to say?

I support you.

Wait. I haven't decided anything yet. Are you really okay with that, Yuki? I won't be able to do the office work anymore either.

If your main business gets busier, then the office work can't be helped, right? Like I said before, I'm not in trouble. Besides, it's a good offer. There's no reason to turn it down.

That's true, but...

I found myself hesitating. There wasn't a single thing wrong with what Yuki was saying.

I understand. Thank you. But I'll think about what to do with the shop a little more before I decide.

What on earth are you hesitating about?

Are you really saying that?

It's not a bad offer, is it?

But we spent so much time, and you helped me with so much to get this far, so it's hard to just move it so easily. And what about the regulars, Chiyo-chan, and Suzune-chan? Plus...

I started to say, then stopped.

There's a lot going on, so I wanted you to listen to me and give me some advice!

I see. But that's not something you need to worry about, Yu. You should just do what you want to do.

I know that. But it's not that simple.

I don't really understand what you're saying, Yu.

I don't really understand either. But since I was able to talk about it, I feel like I've calmed down a little. I'll try thinking about it properly once more.

I think that's for the best.

By the way, Yuki, why did you start a repair shop?

I asked because I wanted a reference. Yuki started talking while gazing vaguely at the ceiling.

My old man was a guy who didn't understand people's feelings. When I was about a high school student, I rebelled against him every day. I swore to myself that I wouldn't become like him. But in the end, I didn't understand people's feelings either.

I remember Yuki on the day he was drunk on whiskey before.

And then?

Like I said before, I couldn't forgive myself for that, so I quit my job. I spent a while doing nothing in the repair shop office, but I remembered that my old man often said, 'Things hold people's feelings.'

That's the first time I've heard that.

Is that so? Then maybe he only said it to me. He said I'd understand if I did repairs. Eventually, I wanted to verify for myself if my old man's words were true. That's why I started the repair shop.

I thought the repair shop was just a way to escape reality.

You're not wrong. I couldn't take it anymore, so I ran away.

Yuki sighed lightly.

It's a boring story, isn't it? Seriously, my old man should have explained it more properly before he died.

I couldn't help but laugh.

That was very helpful. Thank you.

* * *

I was thinking while washing the dishes. 'Things hold people's feelings,' huh? I wonder if this cafe has feelings too.

A department store, huh.

It had slipped out.

Manager, are you talking about the department store from before?

Chiyo-chan said.

"Right. Yuki agreed with me."

"I agree with you too."

"Is that so? But that would mean closing this place down."

"If it comes to that, it can't be helped. I'll just find another part-time job. Well, I might even become popular as an illustrator and not have time for part-time work anyway."

He said that with a laugh.

"I'll support you too, Manager, if you want to work at the department store. It's a shame to lose this place, though."

Suzune-chan agreed with me as well.

* * *

I was alone, worrying in the cafe after closing time.

Everyone is supporting me. But is it really okay for this place to disappear?

"What do you think?"

I stroked the cafe counter as I spoke to Chiyo-chan's illustration.

If I run the shop at the department store, sales will surely increase compared to now. But I won't be able to continue the shop in this location. What will happen to the regular customers? Besides, I won't be able to work with Chiyo-chan and Suzune-chan anymore. Yet, those two are actually supporting me.

I held my head in my hands.

I suddenly looked at the door inside the counter. If I open that door, the repair shop is there.

"That's it. It has to be here."

I was the manager of the cafe and the clerk for the repair shop. I hadn't realized that for me, there was no option to quit being the repair shop clerk.

I love Yuki's repairs. I want to feel the feelings that reside in the items brought in, just like Yuki said. I can't do the repairs myself, but I think there are things I can do. I realized that I need this cafe space for that purpose.

Besides, this cafe is my life itself. It only took its current form because I started it next to the repair shop. This place is already becoming a home for everyone. That's why I couldn't just let this place go so easily.

* * *

The deadline for the department store's response had arrived. It was decided that he would come to the coffee shop again. Today was the day, and it was the coffee shop's regular holiday. I thought that if the shop was closed, we could talk slowly without rushing.

I asked Yuki to join us, but he refused.
It seemed he had gone out.
I at least wanted him to be in the office next door.

He appeared exactly at the promised time.

"Thank you for coming today. I am sorry for keeping you waiting for my answer."

I said that and served the coffee.

"It's fine. I'm looking forward to it because I think it's a good proposal."

Casually applying pressure must be his way of doing things.
I couldn't quite bring myself to start talking.

"The coffee here really is delicious."

"Thank you."

It was becoming increasingly difficult to talk.

"So, what is your answer?"

"Well, how should I put this, I am sorry, but please let me decline this time."

"Is that so? What is the problem? Was it too sudden, or are the terms offered bad?"

"No, that's not it."

"Then why?"

"There is nothing wrong with your proposal. It's just that I realized that to do what I really want to do at the coffee shop, it has to be in this location."

His expression clouded over instantly.

"After receiving your offer, I thought about it a lot. It was a truly grateful offer, and I was wavering until the very last moment.
It would be like a dream if my shop could open in a department store, and my parents would surely be happy. I would also be proud of myself."

"Then why?"

"But I keep thinking about this place, my current customers, my employees, and the repairman, among other things."

“A repair shop? Oh, you mean the one with the old sign next door? They aren't in business anymore, are they?”

“The repair shop is still in business. And it will continue to be.”

I returned to the topic.

“I don't think I want to run a trendy cafe. It's just that, somehow, I feel like if I let this place go, everything I've built up will disappear along with it.”

“I see.”

“I just can't imagine running the kind of cafe I want to in a department store.”

“I understand what you're saying. But it's such a waste. With the passion you have now, I think you could succeed anywhere.”

I was still wavering.

“But I think I'm only able to work this hard because it's this place.”

That probably didn't explain anything. I couldn't even say that I wanted to be near Yuki.

“You seem to have a great deal of attachment to this location.”

“Maybe so. It's not so much the place itself, but the people who helped me build it up that are important to me... I'm sorry, I'm not explaining this well.”

I stared at the illustration Chiyo-chan had given me.

“Then, what if I were to guarantee you a spot in another one of our chain stores if you open a branch in our department store this time?”

“Wait, um, what do you mean by that?”

I was clearly shaken. It was a complete attempt to rattle me.

“Exactly what I said.”

My hesitation was showing. I felt pathetic, even though I had decided not to waver anymore. I told myself to calm down. I took a deep breath.

“Even so, I cannot leave this place.”

“I understand. Let me confirm one last time. You really have no intention of opening a shop in the department store, do you?”

Yes. I am sorry.

I bowed my head and looked away. I was afraid to look at his face.
Contrary to my expectations, he spoke in a gentle voice.

Please lift your head.

When I did as I was told, I saw that he was not angry.

It is truly a pity this time. Usually, I get a positive response. But, well, I understand now.

What do you mean by that?

I mean I understand why this coffee shop is so comfortable. That dedication is genuine.

Thank you. Actually, I was terrified to turn you down. I was worried I might be making the wrong decision.

That remains to be seen. However, even if you come back and ask to open a branch, I will not accept.

He seemed to be gauging my expression.
After a while, he gave a small nod and said.

If a suitable time comes again, I will be the one to come and ask you then.

He left in a hurry. I watched him go from the entrance of the coffee shop until he was out of sight.

Perhaps because I had been so tense, my emotions were finally welling up.
I couldn't stop my legs from shaking.
I felt some, no, quite a bit of regret.

Yuki was just returning.
As soon as Yuki saw me shaking, he said.

Yu, are you okay? What did that guy say to you!

He looked like he was about to run after him, so I hugged him to stop him.

Don't go. I'm fine. He was a good person.

I see. You did well.

Yuki, what should I do? I turned him down.

You decided it yourself. It will be fine.

“I wonder. If I hadn't been so particular, this would surely have become a bigger shop. I might have been able to be a better child to my parents, and if it had turned a profit, I might have been able to return here normally, and besides,”

Yuki interrupted me and said.

“Calm down. If you hadn't been so particular, Yu, this coffee shop wouldn't exist today. Besides, no one knows what will happen in the future. That's the same whether it's this place or a department store.”

“You're right. Thank you, Yuki.”

I had decided not to cry today, but in the end, I did. Yuki held me until I calmed down.

* * *

Some time has passed since then. Today is our first day off in a while. I hadn't been able to restock because I was so busy, so I went out early in the morning and was working busily.

Even so, I was able to return to the coffee shop by noon, so I called Yuki and we tried the new hamburger menu together.

“This is good.”

“Right? The solid patty, the lettuce that's practically falling out, and this cheese are the best!”

“You've loved cheese since you were little, Yu. By the way, is a patty a dog's name or something?”

“The patty is this meat part. Don't ever say it's a dog in front of customers, because it'll be misunderstood.”

“I got it.”

We were drinking coffee together after the meal.

“Come to think of it, the hinge on the entrance door had a loose screw, so I fixed it.”

“Thank you.”

“Also, that table, the leg was wobbling, so I fixed that too.”

“You're a big help with all sorts of things.”

A series of mysterious repair reports continued for a while.

“Is there something you want to say?”

I do.

He sat back in his chair and stared at me. Yuki's eyes were fixed on me.

I was happy that the cafe was a success, but I was also a little envious.

Is that so?

It's embarrassing, isn't it? That's why when I heard about the department store, I decided to support you without saying anything unnecessary.

So that's why you acted like that.

I felt like every one of Yuki's past attitudes finally made sense.

Besides, I didn't want you to be away from me, Yu.

Really?

Yeah. I think that showed in my attitude too.

Now that you mention it, maybe that's true.

That's enough, isn't it?

Then, are you glad I didn't go to the department store?

I am.

I see. Good for being honest!

I kissed his cheek.

A reward.

I could feel my face turning red.

You might have some sauce on you.

I pretended to wipe Yuki's face to hide my gaze.

Once things had settled down, I asked him again.

"Why do you hate it when I'm not around?"

He rested his chin on his hand and thought about it.

"Because I can't wake up in the morning."

Yuki was smiling.

"Oh, come on!"

Yuki rephrased himself.

"There were so many things I only noticed because you were there, Yu. I don't think I would have realized them on my own."

"Me too."

"Well, I'm heading back to the office."

"Okay."

Yuki's footsteps were light.

I opened the cafe door and checked the condition of the hinges. The bell rang.