#okiya sei

[akehoshimystar]

[Break My Case] 2026 Happy New Year! login story translation 🎍

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X) Misora (@alcmisoyou on X) Imai (@bunnyandcomet on X and tumblr) Aca (@463ce6 on tumblr or @463ce6 on X) HMU (@hispereia on Discord)

Chapter 1 (by Aca) Chapter 2 (by Imai) Chapter 3 (by Misora) Chapter 4 (by HMU) Chapter 5 (by Misora) Chapter 6 (by Kalos)

[arauruia]

[Translate] Fushimi Shizuka's Personal Story

Translate by AUL, Proofread by @Kumonkunliker on X

Sei: Fushimi-kun, what made you work at Aporia?

Shizuka: Eh?

The regular meeting that started with “if there's nothing in particular, we’ll make it short”, really ended in less than 10 minutes. As I was getting ready to leave, I casually mentioned that I had trouble drafting the e-mail for the new client in English. The one that offered to take a look was Okiya Sei-san. The first thing he said after silently staring at the monitor made me take my gaze back from wandering the bookshelf lightly.

Shizuka: I didn’t see that one coming at all.

Sei: Oh, my apologies. It’s just that the working terms for Aporia are pretty much standard like other companies out there. The fact that someone capable of negotiating those terms even as a freelancer would take a full-time job, and even on top of that accepted a role that has nothing to do with a system like the  Head of the Watchdog Department. When I think about it again, it really is quite something.

Shizuka: ……

Sei: As for the draft, there’s nothing wrong about them. I think it can be read with almost the same nuance as the original.

Shizuka: Thank you.

Sei: I’m happy to be of help. If it’s something like this you can ask me anytime.

Shizuka: Okay.

Shizuka: …… To answer the question. It’s because the salary and benefits are good.

Sei: Pardon?

Shizuka: The reason I became full-time at Aporia.

Sei: Oh, thank you for the answer. Salary and benefits. Although they are common reasons, it is no exaggeration to say that it is the most important point when it comes to working conditions.

Shizuka: That’s right. If I can earn efficiently, I don’t care much about anything else.

Sei: Efficiently…

Shizuka: It’s not like I want to work forever.

Sei: Now I’m the one who didn’t see that coming. It does sound like you want to retire early. Either way, I thought you’re the type that really loves to bury yourself with “work”. From the rumor I heard "whenever I go to his house, there’s a pile of lethal doses of energy drink cans lying around”.

Shizuka: Was it Shinkai?

Sei: Fufu, anyway from now on please don’t push yourself too hard and take care of your life in earnest. There’s also another rumor, I heard in your last workplace you were handling something that is life threatening on a daily basis.

Shizuka: Someone was exaggerating that part for sure.  Well, it’s too shady to be defended anyway. But I never heard of any people dying until the end of my service. Also, as you can see, I’m still alive and all. 

Sei: So, it’s not like you were worn down both physically and mentally by the continued suffering, and had no choice but to retire after reaching the limit eventually.

Shizuka: It was time to resign for me anyway, so I just quit.

Sei: That’s a relief. Fushimi-kun is strong as a person. So, I thought that’s a possibility.

Shizuka: Strong as a person?

Sei: Mainly on the psychology side. If I were simply to say you're “mentally strong”, that’s all about it, but your strength is not something that can be described by that alone. Especially your courage to handle people which stands out even in Aporia.

Shizuka: ……?

Sei: Fushimi-kun, no matter who you face, you neither excessively flatter them nor do you reject them.

Shizuka: Well, if what you mean by “excessively” is “more than necessary”, then yes. I don't want to get tired doing something I don't have to.

Sei: “Accept logic and duty equally, and don’t demand anything more than necessary.” It’s a way that could be considered an ideal human relationship. However it’s easier said than done. You are fair and lenient, those traits of yours could bring about a rare balance. I find that a great strength. 

Sei: And that’s the charm that attracts people. Or should I say “that’s how people ended up attracted to you”

Shizuka: …… 

Sei: How you handle people probably gives comfort to those who feel pain and difficulty in so-called “normal” social interaction. 

That comfort will turn into a treasure that can’t be let go. Perhaps, there’s a case like that.

Shizuka: …… If that’s a compliment, thanks.

Sei: It is indeed a compliment, you’re welcome.

Sei: By the way—- is there a case like that comes to your mind?

Shizuka: (Don’t tell me……)

Sei: Sorry for beating around the bush. The other day, I got a report from Soyogu-kun about something that happened on the way back from the proxy work site. 

Sei: A coincidental meeting with your childhood friend, is it okay to ask a bit about Fukuhara-san?

Shizuka: (As I thought, it's a build-up for this topic.)

It's okay. In fact, I fully expected that topic to pop up today. But, for some reason, the meeting ended without that being brought up.

Sei: I'm sorry. When it’s time to check the recent situation, there's no report for such a thing from Fushimi-kun. Thinking about how to do it, I heard Soyogu-kun say “he’s not asking me to keep quiet” so…

Shizuka: If it was another human, I would somehow make them keep quiet about it. But, for Shinkai, it's related to work.

When I took the position of the Head of the Watchdog Department, there's an additional clause “guaranteed of safety" added to the contract. Since Shinkai was the one who’s in charge of that job, asking him not to report about “that” was impossible.

Sei: When you were walking through the street, you ran into him. As soon as he saw you guys, suddenly he rushed over and tried to strangle Soyogu-kun…. 

This is the report I’ve heard. Is there any mistake or misunderstanding? 

Shizuka: Nope, it happened just like how it’s said.

Sei: Soyogu-kun was impressed. He said you seemed not surprised at all and handled it calmly.

Shizuka: I mean, of course I was surprised. But I just thought there’s no time to be surprised, so I just do what I must.

Shizuka: It’s a good thing Shinkai was not injured, but we still needed to turn him in to the police.

Sei: Despite being surprised, you can still respond meaning you were used to that side of him…. Right?

Shizuka: He’s always done something extreme since long ago.

Sei: So it’s not uncommon.

Shizuka: However, Kei… Fukuhara has the reason for acting strangely. As long as he can avoid that, everything should be peaceful. The occurrence was not as frequent as what Okiya-san might have imagined. 

It’s not like he’s born like “that”.

Sei: …… I see.

—

When we were children, he was the one that would get angry and cry on my behalf. No tears or anger needed, watching Kei made me feel at ease. I never asked him to nor did I have any ulterior motive. But, since he always did it on my behalf…… I was probably the one that pushed Kei who used to be “normal”.

Kei: …… Huu … uh … hiks … I don’t want it … I don’t want to see… Shizu-kun like this… How can I make you feel at ease? I’ll get rid of everyone who makes Shizu-kun suffer, just say the name… I’ll make some notes…

Shizuka: That’s dangerous. You don’t need to get rid of anyone, no matter how many people are gone, my job wouldn’t change.

Kei: …… So, it won’t work unless it’s Shizu-kun himself who disappears?

Shizuka: Don’t heed something unpleasant.

Kei: In that case … I …

Shizuka: (Ah…) 

(At this point, he’ll just…)

Kei: …… I can’t ! I can’t kill Shizu-kun !!!

Shizuka: ……It’s a problem if you can. For now, just stop crying and calm down. If you keep making noises like this, the neighbor will report you.

Kei: But…… 

Shizuka: I’ll resign from the company.

—

After that problem and work filled up more. There’s no time. I couldn’t go home. I didn’t see the end of it.  At that kind of lifestyle, Kei was the one who reached the limit first.  If at that time Kei was not like that, probably I wouldn't change work. At the end, even as an adult, I would make him do something “on my behalf”.

Shizuka: (...... Come to think of it, it was the neck at that time too. Well, that’s what happens when you take someone's life with bare hands.)

Even at this very moment, I don’t know how to restart everything. I can’t decide whether Kei getting involved with me is a good thing or not. However, I can predict from past examples what will happen if I completely cut Kei off from me in his current state, so I'm avoiding that option.  There’s nothing you can do once something is damaged beyond repair anyway. 

Shizuka: I barely to almost never talk about Aporia, only spoke about a few things that would cause no harm. At least I made him promise not to come to the dorm” and “if you saw me outside, don’t talk to me carelessly”. 

So, I think it’s okay for now. Even if it doesn't seem like that, I would consult in advance.

Sei: I see. Got it, please do that.

Shizuka: Sure.

… Ah, I’m sorry but I got an appointment so I need to leave now.

Sei: I’m also sorry for holding you back for so long. Are you going out?

Shizuka: No, it’s just Aizawa-kun stopping by.

Sei: Oh, Shinobu-kun. Is it the cleaning?

Shizuka: Yes.

Sei: Fufu. I see… When the long awaited early retirement happens, you should look for a place to settle down that’s close to Shibuya.

Shizuka: Eh? But I want to be away from here.

Sei: But, if it’s too far, won’t it be difficult for Shinobu-kun? The transportation cost will also increase.

Shizuka: …Well, when the time comes, I’ll just pay for it.

Sei: Seems like “not calling him” is not even a choice.

Shizuka: I know I’m just repeating myself, but I don't want to get tired doing something I don't have to.

Sei: Meaning that if it’s something you must do, you’ll do it no matter how tired you are. What a wonderful thing to say. 

Shizuka: It’s a matter of phrasing, huh….

Sei: Fufu.

Wherever I go, no matter how far. The messy and unresolved things pile up before I even get to close my eyes.  The reality that becomes burdensome just by acknowledging it. I can only deal with it once it arises.  Build, execute, revise, and repeat until the necessary parts are connected in the ideal way.

After everything is done, what lies ahead, “eventually”--  A place where one is not tied down to anyone or anything. A moment when one can finally rest and shut eyes in peace. That’s my wish.

-END-

Hi everyone. First of all thank you for the proofread kumonkunliker on X. HAPPY 2nd ANNIVERSARY. Hope you enjoy the event and can't wait for all staff song yeay!

Neither English nor Japanese is my first language; any errors are on my part. Advice and comment please send to my strawpage. and I’ll be happy if we can be oomf at twt/IG

[itsukimiu]

Urara Manami SR: Stacking up Lone Clouds

google doc ver here! Translated by Tsukimi (@rurumiiii) Proofread by Aca, Dimi, and Myun

Part One

I was preparing for the dress-up event with a few Aporia members.  Thinking I was just about done, I looked up. Mika-san was looking this way, and our eyes met.

Mikado: Ito, Urara. Do you have a minute?

Urara: Hah?

Ito: Of course. Is something wrong?

Mikado: A little while ago, we talked about adding inste-worthy stuff to the menu, right? Once you're done with your current task, I'd like you two to go to Chinatown and gather some ideas. What do you think? 

Ito: I don’t mind, but…

Urara: Why do I gotta get dragged into this too? She’s not a child, she can go by herself. 

Ito: (I thought so…)

Mikado: There were a lot of good stores when we went out shopping the other day, right Urara? 

Your job is to be her guide. Look around and find some ideas together while you're at it.

Since you’re not a child either, the least you can do is lead the way, no? 

Urara: Tch.

Manami-san didn't say anything further and went back to his work. 

———

By the time I reached a stopping point in my work, he was already waiting at the entrance. 

Urara: Hurry up. I’m gonna leave you behind. 

Ito: Sorry, I’ll be right there.

Just as we were about to step outside, a familiar face walked into the store. 

Sei: Oya, Yashiro-san and Urara-kun. Are you two heading out somewhere?

Urara: Hah? ‘S got nothing to do with you. 

Manami-san cut off the conversation short, but Sei-san smiled without flinching.

Sei: I see… So you’re going out to look for ideas to add to the menu.

Urara: Huh? 

Ito: (Eh.)

Sei: Fufu. I was aware that you two were considering something like that, so I just took a guess. 

Sei: Judging from your reactions, it looks like I hit the mark.

I was stunned into silence, and Manami-san was visibly put off. It might have just been me, but he seemed to be more on edge than usual, keeping a noticeable amount of distance from Sei-san.

Urara: Oi, ignore him. Let’s go. 

Sei: Are you going to leave? And here I was, about to offer a special suggestion to you two.

Urara: …What is it. 

Sei: A suggestion about pairing a menu set with Huangshan Maofeng tea.

Urara: …Huangshen Maofeng tea?

Sei: It's a type of Chinese tea. It has a rich aroma and a mellow sweetness. 

Sei: Just by pairing it with a menu set will make it all the more splendid.

Ito: I see. It might be a good idea to go find a menu that pairs well with that tea then.

Urara: Whatever.

Sei: If that’s settled, let’s head out immediately.

Urara: What? Why the hell are you—

Sei: I’m the only one who knows the taste of this tea, after all.

Well then, won’t you lead the way? 

Urara: Don’t fuck with me!

Part Two

In the end, the three of us would end up going together… While looking for menu ideas, I couldn't help but notice Manami-san's behavior. 

Urara: Hah…

Ito: (It feels like he’s more on edge than usual.)

Urara: …

Ito: (Hm?)

The moment his sullen eyes widened just a bit… 

Sei: Oya. Urara-kun seems to take an interest in those panda buns over there.

Urara: !

I followed Sei-san's gaze and spotted a store selling cute panda buns. 

Sei: Do you perhaps like pandas?

Urara: H-Hah?!

Urara: Why the hell do I have to tell you something like that? 

Ito: (He’s not denying it…)

Ito: Um… Since we’re here, should we give them a try?

Sei: Of course.

Urara: I don’t want any.

Sei: Is that so… Well then, Ito-san and I shall go get some. 

After we bought the panda buns, Sei-san started eating immediately. 

Sei: Oh my! Isn’t this just wonderful? 

Sei: The rich sweetness of the red bean paste and the faint aroma of sesame stirs up my appetite—

Urara: So annoying. Just shut up and eat.

Sei: Oya…

Ito: (Yeah, it really is sweet and delicious.)

Ito: Panda buns seem like a good idea. They look cute too, so it might be an inste-worthy menu item.

Urara: …Idiot. It wouldn’t work. 

Ito: Huh?

Urara: Huangshen Maofeng tea’s sweet, so the whole set’s gonna be nothing but fucking sweet. 

Ito: (That’s true…)

Sei: There’s no need to worry.

Sei: I happen to have another tea recommendation. 

Sei: It’s called Anxi Tieguanyin tea, and it pairs well with the sweetness.

Sei: If it’s with this, then we can keep the panda buns into consideration. What do you think? 

Urara: …

Urara: …Do what you want. 

Ito: I think that’s a great idea too.

Ito: (Not just because they’re cute and delicious, but also because Manami-san seemed interested in them. I’m glad Sei-san suggested it.)

Sei: Well then, let's use this as a basis to suggest our original 'panda buns' to everyone. 

Sei: I will buy a few more as reference materials, so please wait. 

Urara: Hurry up and go.

Sei-san went to line up at the storefront. Manami-san let out a deep sigh as we watched him go.

Urara: …So annoying—

Ito: Are you feeling tired? I’m sorry for making you tag along. 

Urara: Hah? Don’t mess with me. There's no way I'd get tired from something like this. That guy’s just creepy as hell. 

Ito: Um…

Urara: ’M talking about Okiya. He’s fucking shady as hell.

Urara: People like that're usually trouble. Nothing good ever comes from getting involved with people like him. 

Ito: (So that’s why he was acting a bit different from usual.)

Sei: Sorry to keep you waiting. 

Ito: Welcome back, Sei-san. 

Sei: Here is one for Urara-kun too. Apparently, this one isn’t as sweet. 

Urara: Told you I don’t want it. Don’t do anything unnecessary. You eat it.

Sei: I politely refuse. It is because I bought this specifically for you, Urara-kun.

Urara: …

Ito: (Ah…)

With a displeased look on his face, Manami-san took the small wrapped bundle handed to him. Though he usually has a rough personality, seeing him carefully settle the bundle into his arms made me smile, just a little.

[akehoshimystar]

[Break My Case] Main Story translation

: Thread 2 - piece of CAKE 🍰

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8

[akehoshimystar]

[Break My Case] 2025 April Fools' Day short stories translation  🤥 

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X) Misora (@alcmisoyou on X)

Proofread and image by Aca (@463ce6 on X and tumblr)

Chapter 1 (by Kalos) Chapter 2 (by Misora) Chapter 3 (by Misora) Chapter 4 (by Misora) Chapter 5 (by Kalos) Chapter 6 (by Misora) Chapter 7 (by Kalos) Chapter 8 (by Kalos)

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 4

By HMU (@hispereia on Discord)

Mochi-making machine: ......Thud thud thud……

Yuragi: ……

Taiga: Yuragi, how’s the mochi looking?

Yuragi: Interesting.

Taiga: Not that. I’m asking if it’s going to be done soon or not. 

Yuragi: Don’t know. What about the sweet red bean soup?

Taiga: It’s done.

Yuragi: Then come and take a look, Taiga.

Taiga: Haa……

Well. Yeah, this should be good enough. What’s left is to roll it up with flour.

It’s quite hot so you should step aside while I carry this. Also, don’t try to steal a bite.

Yuragi: Okay.

Sei: My apologies for leaving it to the two of you. I just can’t seem to find the strength to leave this kotatsu……

Haruhi: Taiga’s doing it ‘cause he likes to, y’know. 

Taiga: I don’t want to hear it from you, even if that is the case. 

Good grief…… The mochi should be done. You want it wrapped in seaweed right? How many are you having?

Haruhi: How big are we talking? 

Taiga: Around half the size of a fist.

Haruhi: Just one, then.

Taiga: Just one?

Haruhi: It’s half the size of your fist, right? That’s plenty for me.

My stomach doesn't have that much room left after that ramen we had for lunch.

Taiga: Are you having it with sweet red bean soup, Sei-san?

Sei: Yes, thank you. 

And for the mochi…… Right, I will take three then.

Haruhi: You sure can eat, huh.

Taiga: He does like mochi after all. How about Yuragi?

Yuragi: Two with the soup. I’ll think about the rest later. 

Taiga: Two, right…… Here you go. 

Pour the soup into your and Sei-san’s bowl, then bring it over there. Don’t spill it. 

Yuragi: And you?

Taiga: I’m rolling the rest of this mochi to put it into the refrigerator. 

Yuragi: Hurry. I want to eat now.

Taiga: You don’t have to wait for me. Go ahead and eat.

Yuragi: But Taiga always says that “Thanks for the food” is only said when everyone’s gathered though. 

Taiga: Huh?

Yuragi: That’s why. Hurry up.

Taiga: That’s……

Sei: ……Fufu, he is right. It sure is better to say it when everyone’s gathered.

If that’s the case— Let us stand. 

Taiga: !

Sei: Uu…… As I thought, it is cold once I’m out. 

Taiga: Sei-san, got out of, the kotatsu…….?

Sei: I’m alright. If it’s just this much, there should be nothing to worry about. 

Well then, Taiga. Shall I offer my assistance?

Taiga: Sei-san…… Even though it’s chilly for you……

……Got it. I’ll count on you!

Haruhi: All he did was get out of the kotatsu.

Yuragi: Sei. 

So, you roll it up, coat it with flour, then line it over there.

Taiga: If you understand that much then help out. Haruhi too. 

Haruhi: Four dudes in a kitchen is overkill, don’t cha’ think?

Taiga: Just stand together with Yuragi on that side of the counter. Quit talking back and get over here.

Sei: Haruhi. Let us stand as one and overcome this trial together. 

Haruhi: Eh—? 

C’mon…… What. My hands aren’t as thick as Taiga, so hot stuff is just hot.

Taiga: I’ll give you some gloves so go and wash your hands before you put them on.

Okoge: Meooow, meow.

Haruhi: Yes yes, there’s some for you too. It’s a treat Yuragi brought with him.

Okoge: Meow.

Yuragi: Yeah. Just wait a bit. 

Let’s say “thanks for the food” together.

[akehoshimystar]

[Break My Case] Main Story translation

: Thread 1 - Sly Red 🔒

Translation by Kalos (@Kumonkunliker on X)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8

[akehoshimystar]

Chapter 1

Ito: Investigation request?

Yuzuru: The details are not set in stone yet, but it’s still a wide-scope investigation, so I think it’ll be a long-term case.

Each time we receive specific instructions from the client, for example, "This time, I want you to investigate this matter," we investigate and submit a report. As soon as we receive further instructions, we start another investigation...

As the process is repeated, it feels more like a "multiple repeats of non-serial case" rather than a long-term case.

Although there were relatively many opportunities to take on such cases, we haven't had a chance to have Yashiro-san involved with it yet.

Yuzuru: The investigation request that has no involvement with the case handled by Simulation Dept. or Watchdog Dept. and is purely investigation-only, will fall under the responsibility of ST Dept.

Yuzuru: However, when the content is not appropriate for Aporia to take on, we have to outsource from external company or individual, like an investigation agency, detective agency, or someone who is a professional or well-informed in that field and is well-versed in a particular subject,

Yuzuru: When the mediation for that is necessary, The Negotiation Dept. or Sei-san will be in charge.

Ito: Negotiation Dept.….and Sei-san instead of Administrative Dept.?  

Yuzuru: Sei-san had been in the Negotiation Dept. even before the Administrative Dept. was established.

Ito: Really?

Yuzuru: As a result, there are still a few contractors that Sei-san is the liaison for.

Ito: (I see, a former member of the Negotiation Dept... Now that you mention it, it's strange that I never imagined it before when he looks perfectly fit in.)

Yuzuru: But this time, it's a little different from either of those patterns.

Ito: It's neither going to be handled by the ST Dept. nor will it be outsourced...?

Yuzuru: This one will be handled by Main Office, and the appropriate staff will be selected each time to carry out the investigation, regardless of department.

It's not that we won't get any outside help, but we'll have Aporia members take action as much as possible.

Ito: (I see. Not a matter of a specific department, but rather Aporia as a whole.)

Yuzuru: I would like Yashiro-san to assist with the investigation as a dedicated support staff member and be there each time the staff is changed.

However, I don't think that you will need to solely focus on that job in the future..

Basically, I would like you to continue what you have been doing. Regular duties, helping out with the cafe business, and responding to needs from each department for special requests. I will entrust these duties to you. 

Ito: I understand. The person in charge of overseeing the entire request is... Kise-san, right?

Yuzuru: Nope. It's Ai-san.

Ito: Ohh……

At Kise-san's words, I turned my eyes towards the desk of the person who was working silently. He was probably reading some documents or reports, but his gaze, which was fixed on the tablet in front of him, was finally directed towards me.

Ai: The client this time is "ANC".

Ito: !

ANC - Anonymous Client.  A special client, other than the person in charge affiliated with Aporia, all information regarding that person will be kept secret. I've heard about it, but I've never been involved.

Ai: I handle all communication with the other party, and give instructions to the staff in charge depending on the matter of each investigation. Feel free to share what I've just explained with everyone.

Yuzuru: Yashiro-san, can I ask you a favor? You can send it on Chattas's general channel.

Ito: Okay. Just to be sure, could you please check the wording?

Yuzuru: Of course. I'll be helping out in the kitchen, so I think I'll be back by 2pm at the latest. Feel free to call me out anytime after that.

I wonder if there is anything else I should tell you…... Ai-san?

Ai: It doesn't have to be now, but you should tell her about the staff code first.

Yuzuru: Okay. I'll take the time to explain that in detail before the investigation begins.

Ito: ?

Yuzuru: In documents and reports related to ANC cases, we have a rule that we use a set number instead of the name of the staff member in charge. That’s the "staff code."

Ito: Staff code...

Yuzuru: Yes. We try not to leave information about "who is which number" on documents, whether electronic or paper. Yashiro-san will eventually have to remember them...

From number 13 onwards, it's mostly in order of years of employment, so it's easy to follow.

Ito: As for numbers 12 and below, they are a different story, right?

Yuzuru: Haha… Actually, this format wasn't here right from the beginning, it was introduced after Ai-san came to Aporia.

For the 12 members who were here at that time, despite not being an original member, Mao's number is very low, meanwhile Sei-san’s number is all the way at the back, even though he has been here since the beginning. 

Well, Roka-san and Kiho-san are exceptions, since their numbers were decided by drawing lots.

Ito: Lottery?

Ai: It's Roka, what's new?

Ito: (Always full of fun ideas...)

Yuzuru: But it's not something we use that often, so it's fine to ask if you don't know.

Anyway, I'll give you a rundown shortly after..

Ito: Okay. Thank you.

Ai: By the way, Yashiro. Do you have plans tomorrow night?

Ito: No. I'm free after working hours.

Ai: There’s a tentative reservation for Yuki-san at 9pm. It seems that he has something to discuss with you.

Ito: Yuki-san?

Yuzuru: !

Ai: I'll contact him to confirm the reservation if it’s at your convenience. Are there any problems?

Ito: Ah, no. No problem, sir. I'll be there.

Ai: Got it.

Until you’re done with him, you’re still considered working. You can wrap up your work at the regular time, just don't clock out at the usual time. 

Ito: (Aside from the fact that this is a good standing company…. What he said about treating it like work……...)

Is Yuki-san here to request a proxy service?

Ai: No, but it's still a related matter. You can ask him for more details.

Ito: …..? Understood.

(What does he mean…... Well, guess I'll find out tomorrow.)

Yuzuru: ... If there are no other questions, that’s all for today’s meeting. I'm sorry for taking up your time right after you arrived at work.

Ito: It’s okay, thank you.

Yuzuru: Please keep up the good work.

Shortly after, I saw off Kise-san as he headed towards the store before turning off sleep mode on my computer.

Ito: (Well... I should start by writing the text now.)

I was appointed as the acting owner through a strange coincidence. Several in-store duties, the work I gradually took over from Kise-san, helping with the cafe business, and my ever first dress-up event. As I worked frantically on the tasks at hand, I realized that a fair amount of time had passed since I started working at Aporia. The hours I spent working at this office had completely become a part of my daily routine.

Ito: (At one point, I wondered what would happen after I came here...)

The day after my interaction with him….. I was a little stiff when I arrived at work, but Kosaka-san still greeted me and started working as usual. After that, he never brought up that subject again. Not even once, up until this day.

Ito: (He didn't change his attitude in any strange way, and as time passed, we naturally became more comfortable with each other…. Maybe that sounds a bit misleading.)

(He never looked at me in a negative way, rejected me, or left me alone. He treated me normally as a subordinate, and no matter how I look at it, he treated me even better than usual...) 

( I'm starting to wonder now if that moment was just a dream…..)

Suddenly, Kosaka-san's phone rang.

Ai: Good morning.

Yes, I'll be at the office all day today.……………Now? I don’t mind.

The members working at the cafe are Ukyo, Kanno, Kamiya, and Nina. It’s the usual three minus Roka here. 

Ito: …….

Ai: You’re the same as ever. Aren’t you the one who always asks which members are present?

Yes. That's fine…. Huh? ……………………Ask her yourself.

Yashiro.

Ito: ! Yes.

I've taken over, Yashiro speaking. 

Riku: "Oh, Yashiro? Good morning."

Riku: I came to Shibuya for work so I thought I'd pop in. While I was on my way, I was drawn in by the smell of coffee.

Ito, a latte and a black coffee, which would you prefer?

Chapter 2