Chapter 3 | Days Full of Firsts 

As the new semester began, things were hectic around me, but by the end of January, everything had settled down quite a bit.

Umi and I are, as usual, running on our normal routine, but even if it felt novel at first, once it became an everyday thing, it blended into the familiar scenery of the classroom.

I, too, had fully adjusted to the daily life unfolding at my new seat.

“Fufu~ Hey, hey, Umi, can you believe it’s already February in a flash?”

“Yeah. Just a little over a month left of our first year.”

“Geez, Umi, don’t play dumb~ Sure, that’s true, but February means that, right? You know, that!”

“February… Oh, yeah, I guess so. Yep.”

Listening to the conversation between Amami-san and Umi in front of me, they’re probably talking about Valentine’s Day. Unlike the previous semester with its midterms, the third term—without tests—is when regular students (mostly guys) start getting secretly restless.

“Speaking of which, Yuu-chin, what did you all do for Valentine’s last year? Since it was an all-girls school, was it, like, friend-choco?”

“Yeah. After school, we’d gather with close friends, make stuff together, eat, and share with the whole class. Some girls brought insanely good chocolate, so it was pretty fun. Ours were like charcoal, though, so we had to finish them ourselves.”

“Oh? What’s that, bestie? Got a complaint? I’m all ears.”

Come to think of it, Umi was like that, I recall, as I start thinking about the day itself.

Until now, February 14th was just something happening out there in the world, but this year, with Umi around, I’ll definitely be involved.

We had Christmas, spent New Year’s together… so naturally, there’s no way we’d skip Valentine’s Day and White Day a month later.

“Well, putting the Class Rep and Asanagi aside, what should we do? The 14th’s a Saturday this year, so no school, right?”

“Oh, yeah… You’re right.”

I’d obviously checked beforehand, but this year’s Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend.

For Umi and me, it doesn’t matter if it’s a weekday or not, but for others, it’s a big deal.

Proof of that is Nozomu, sitting in front of me, who’s oddly fixated on Amami-san and their chat.

“…Seki, sorry, man. We’re not so pumped that we’d shift it to a weekday just to give you obligatory choco.”

“I-I don’t need it anyway! Besides, I’m kinda cutting back on sugar, so sweet stuff, including chocolate, is off-limits for now.”

“Oh, really? I was thinking of giving proper chocolate to the four of us—not just the class—as a daily thank-you, but… if you can’t eat it, guess there’s no helping it.”

“Wha…?!”

Nozomu’s eyes widen in shock at Amami-san’s words.

Since Amami-san makes and gives friend-choco every year, it’s not hard to imagine Nozomu would be included, but having said he can’t eat it due to sugar restrictions, he can’t exactly take it back now.

“Nozomu, even if you can’t eat it, you could take it for Tomoo-senpai or your family. Even with sugar limits, a bite or two wouldn’t hurt.”

“…N-No, it’s fine. Giving something you made to someone else feels wrong to the person who made it.”

I threw him a lifeline despite knowing it’s a weak excuse, but in the end, Nozomu seems set on refusing Amami-san’s chocolate.

Even if it’s just obligatory, Amami-san’s only giving it to the four of us, so it’s clear proof of friendship—something Nozomu would surely be happy about and secretly crave.

…Nozomu’s unexpectedly stubborn about weird things.

Leaving Nozomu, who shuffles off to the restroom unsteadily, aside, the question is what to do about the day itself.

“Umi, it’s kinda weird for me to ask, but… what’s the plan for that day? From the flow of things, it sounds like you’re making the chocolate yourselves.”

“Uh, yeah. Last year, Yuu and I were too busy with entrance exams to do it, so I’m hoping to make some with Nina this time.”

“Nfufu, Umi, you gotta go all out this year and make Maki-kun some super sweet, delicious chocolate, right?”

“No, Yuu-chin, shouldn’t it be bitter? They’re already so lovey-dovey it’s annoying—sweet chocolate on top might give us all indigestion.”

“Both of you, shut it. …This year, I’m gonna make something proper all by myself. Maki, it’s still a bit off, but look forward to it, okay?”

“Yeah. Then I’ll be waiting at home for you that Saturday two weeks from now.”

Umi’s pretty fired up, so I should probably brace myself for a long ‘waiting time’ depending on how it goes.

Either way, it’s my first real Valentine’s Day, so like she said, I’ll look forward to it, enjoy it, and praise Umi’s efforts no matter how it turns out.

With some extra sweet drinks ready.

“Ahh~ Lucky, lucky~ Maki-kun and Umi, you’ve got a bunch of fun stuff coming up. First Valentine’s, then White Day next month, and the month after that’s Umi’s birthday, right? It’s event after event!”

“…Hm?”

I almost let it slide, but I catch myself just in time.

February’s Valentine’s, March is White Day.

And April is Umi’s birthday…

“Uh… Umi-san?”

“Ahh… I might’ve forgotten to mention the most important thing…”

Turning to look at my girlfriend beside me, Umi’s got an awkward look, like she forgot to tell me about her birthday.

“Yeah. Like Yuu said, April’s my birth month. Born April 3rd, Aries, AB blood type. What about you, Maki?”

“I’m August 6th, Leo, AB type… but that’s beside the point.”

Mine’s still a ways off, but Umi’s is just two months away.

Valentine’s is just me getting chocolate, and I’ve got a vague idea of what to give Umi for White Day, but a birthday’s a whole different issue.

I’ve got time and I care about Umi a lot, but there’s one thing I’m short on.

“…Hey, Nitta-san. I was hoping you might know, so I wanted to ask—”

“What? The Class Rep relying on me? That’s kinda rare.”

“Well—”

Something I absolutely need for Umi’s birthday.

Namely, money to buy her a birthday present.

Since Christmas, not just my relationships but the environment around me has changed too.

To put it bluntly, it’s about the Maehara family’s finances.

Up until now, child support was supposed to come in until I turned eighteen. Living expenses, tuition, and more were deposited into an account in my name (managed by Mom), exceeding the original agreement. But according to Mom, after further talks, they decided to stop the payments, keep only the bare minimum for college, and return everything else—including current living expenses from Dad—after I graduate high school.

Mom wanted to handle our lives ourselves and asked Dad to butt out, so he reluctantly agreed. Now, the Maehara household relies solely on Mom’s income.

Mom’s working hard day and night, so unless I splurge like crazy, the budget’s fine, and my allowance is staying as is for now.

“…But even if it’s okay now, what if something happens—like Mom getting sick or in an accident and can’t work? I’d be in trouble then, right? So I figured I should cover my hobbies and stuff myself.”

“So you wanna start a part-time job now?”

“…Yeah, something like that.”

Mom keeps saying, ‘Kids shouldn’t worry about that,’ but as her kid, it’s complicated.

“Maki, if it’s about money, don’t worry about me, okay? As long as I’m with you, I don’t care where we go on dates, and I can get creative with fashion…”

“Umi, thanks. But I still think money’s important.”

Right now, I’m thinking about her birthday present.

Like Umi said, even without money, we could figure something out, and planning it together would probably make for fun memories.

But that should be an extra fun twist from a wide range of options—not a cramped choice forced by tight finances, which might feel restrictive.

…Of course, the biggest reason is that it’s her first birthday as my girlfriend, and I want to pick a gift for Umi without staring down a budget.

By the way, most of the New Year’s money I got from Mom went into games and manga I bought to play with Umi, leaving just a tenth in my wallet.

The games were totally worth it, and we had a blast playing them over New Year’s, so in that sense, it was a good purchase.

Still, I probably should’ve saved a bit more.

“I see… Well, part-time jobs aren’t bad, and it’d be good experience, so if you wanna do it, Maki, I’ll support you… But, um, are you okay? High school jobs are kinda limited, you know…”

“Yeah. I’ve never done one, so I can’t act all high and mighty, but part-time jobs usually mean dealing with customers… Hey, Maki-kun, are you okay talking to strangers now?”

“Well… I’m gonna try my best.”

Even flipping through free papers in the mailbox, most jobs are customer-facing, so I get their concern.

I can talk decently with friends now, but outside that, I’m still a borrowed cat.

Coworkers of all ages, customers from kids to seniors—can I really communicate properly with total strangers?

“By the way, Nitta-san, what kinda job do you do now?”

“Me? I work at a drugstore one station over—stocking shelves, cashier stuff. It’s usually dead, so I’m mostly free, but the occasional annoying customer’s a pain. The shifts are flexible, pay’s decent, and the part-time aunties I work with are super nice, so it’s not a bad gig.”

“Huh… Are they hiring right now, by chance?”

“Dunno. I think there was a hiring sign at the entrance, but the manager’s forgetful… If you’re interested, want me to check?”

“Yeah, could you?”

“Sure. He’s probably there now, so I’ll call and ask.”

I could search and apply myself, but an intro’s better, and from Nitta-san’s story, the conditions don’t sound bad—maybe a solid first job spot.

…Assuming they’re hiring and I pass the interview, that is.

“Maki, wanna practice for the interview now? My brother (the NEET) has some blank resumes, and we can snap a photo nearby.”

“Oh, that sounds fun. I’ll be the interviewer. Ehe, so, Maehara-kun, what exactly did you say to confess to your meddlesome girlfriend next to you? Tell me all about the situation too.”

“What kinda job needs that question…?”

While Nitta-san calls her workplace, prep for the job hunt kicks into gear (mostly led by Umi and Amami-san).

Even for a student part-time job, you’ve gotta ① find a listing and book an interview, ② write a proper resume and bring it, and ③ get hired by the employer to start working. It looks simple, but there’s a lot to do.

I act like I know the world, but I’m still just a clueless kid.

“Ah, yes, that’s right. My frien—uh, acquaintance is looking for a part-time job, so I called to see if you’re still hiring… Oh, I see, got it. Okay, I’ll peel off the sign next time I’m on shift. Yep, thanks for your hard work.”

…And jobs don’t come that easy either.

“From that vibe, they’re not hiring?”

“Yep. They were until recently, but they just took someone new.”

I’d guessed from Nitta-san’s tone dropping mid-call, but things don’t line up that neatly.

So, the part-time job issue hits a snag for now.

“Maki, my birthday is fine, so let’s take our time finding a job. Money is important, sure, but studying is a student’s main gig, and you’ve got that big goal of ‘aiming for top ranks in the year-end exams.’”

“Yeah, Maki-kun. Umi’s birthday comes next year and the year after, but this year with your precious girlfriend in the same class is once-in-a-lifetime.”

“…You’re right.”

I don’t plan to slack on studies for a job, and I’m working hard now, but depending on the workplace, it could still affect me.

For this year’s birthday, I’ll do what I can with what I’ve got, and next year, when I’ve got more leeway, I’ll give Umi a gift with gratitude for both years.

Her first birthday as my girlfriend matters, but I should think about what Umi’d prioritize too.

“…Got it. Thanks, Umi. Can I take you up on that for this year?”

“Yeah, sure. Well, if an amazing job pops up later and you get hired super fast, I might rethink it… but even without that, I’m happy as long as you’re there to celebrate with me. In return, you’ve gotta stay with me all day.”

“Gotcha. Then that’s the plan.”

“Yep. Ehe, it’s a promise.”

I don’t know what Umi’s birthday two months from now will be like, but I want her to keep smiling peacefully.

Like she is right now in front of me.

“…Hey, Yuu-chin, we were just talking about jobs—why are we watching this? Huh? Are they picking a fight with us?”

“Haha, maybe. We don’t have lovers planning this hard for our birthdays, after all~”

““…Sorry”“

It’s fine to act all couple-y, but getting lovey-dovey and ignoring everyone else might be a problem.

Seeing Amami-san and Nitta-san’s troubled faces, plus Nozomu’s half-exasperated look as he returns from the restroom, my face flushes red hot.

“…Umi, let’s save the rest for after school. It’s Friday today, perfect timing.”

“Uh, yeah. Right, we’re together late today.”

Shelving the earlier talks for now, Umi and I focus on classes until the end of the day.

After school, teased by Amami-san and the others, Umi and I head home alone, spending our usual unchanging weekend at my place.

“Maki, I’ll leave the dry laundry here, okay?”

“Yeah, thanks. I’m almost done cleaning over here, so after that, wanna play games and chill until dinner?”

“Okay, I’ll brew some coffee then. Mind if I use the kitchen?”

Since becoming a couple, we’ve been visiting each other’s houses regardless of the day, but weekends we keep the same as before.

We lounge on the kotatsu or sofa, playing around, and when we get hungry, we order from the usual pizza flyer at home, eating while watching rented DVDs or trash-talking over multiplayer games.

We spend more time together now, but since the Asanagi parents still only allow late-night hangouts on Friday weekends, these four—or at most five—times a month remain precious, even as boyfriend and girlfriend.

Finishing cleaning first, I warm my cold hands in the kotatsu as Umi naturally snuggles up beside me.

Back when we were ‘friends,’ I think we minded the distance more, but now it’s basically zero.

“Maki, what’re you looking at? The usual shop’s flyer?”

“Yeah. Looks like they updated the menu, so I thought I’d check it out.”

It’s just a local chain with a few stores, but they roll out new items like a big franchise, with cheap prices and a wide selection that hits all the right spots—it’s totally our weekend staple now.

We decide to try the new menu—keeping the usual sides like fries, chicken, and salad, but going adventurous with the pizza. Their new stuff’s quirky, with big hits and misses, but trying it out’s fun sometimes.

Pizza Rocket Joutou Station Branch—TV says times are tough everywhere, but as regulars, I hope they hang in there.

“Alright, we’ve mostly decided what to order, so I’ll call it in… Hey, Umi, you’re still staring at the flyer—what’s up? Still hungry for something?”

“No, that’s fine… Just something caught my eye. Look here, this tiny text next to the contact info.”

“Uh, let’s see…”

Squinting at where Umi’s pointing, I read—

‘Pizza Rocket Joutou Station Branch Staff Recruitment’

① Students, part-timers, freelancers welcome. High schoolers OK

② Flexible shifts. From once a week, short hours OK

③ Job: Store cleaning, customer service, cooking, etc. Delivery if you have a license

④ Pay based on ability

⑤ Homey workplace. Contact the store (Manager: Sakaki)

“…This is—”

I hadn’t noticed it in the tiny corner space, but it’s a job listing.

There’s stuff to confirm like duties and pay, but with minimal hours that won’t mess with studying and high schoolers allowed, I meet the conditions.

Calling my usual pizza place for something other than an order feels awkward, but… this might not be bad.

“Umi, uh—”

“Yeah, why not ask while ordering? Tomorrow and the day after are off, so we can prep anything you need then.”

With Umi’s okay secured, I decide to call the store while placing our order.

And so, after the weekend off, it’s Monday.

Following up on the job talk from the weekend, I decide to tell the others about it too, kinda as a consult.

“Oh, so your interview’s right after school today? That’s fast.”

“Yeah. They said a short-hour worker just quit, so it’s to fill that spot.”

The test call worked out—they’re still hiring, and I easily booked an interview.

It’s kinda urgent, so the interview’s today right after class. I’ve been rushing around since morning with school job permits, checking the resume I scrambled to make over the break, and stuff.

“Oh, is this Maki-kun’s resume? …Pfft, look, Nina-chi, his photo’s so stiff!”

“For real, hilarious. He’s so tense his lips are all weird. It’s just a photo—should’ve done it normal like his student ID.”

“I know that, but… it’s my first time, so I got nervous.”

Taken the day after booking the interview at a supermarket photo booth for a few hundred yen, my face is visibly tense. Even this was the best of two or three retakes.

I meant to toss the bad ones, but Umi took them all for ‘just in case’ storage.

Umi and I worked on the resume together, Sora-san and Mom checked it, and I did mock interviews with them the day before, getting similar feedback from both.

(Mom & Sora-san) …Everything’s experience, so just do your best.

That’s how it went—practice didn’t feel super promising.

“Maki, don’t worry—just answer like in practice, and it’ll be fine. It’s just a short student gig; if you don’t get it, no big deal.”

“Yeah. From the listing, it seems flexible, but my sis says food service can turn out secretly awful sometimes.”

I talked a bit with the manager over the phone, but it’ll come down to the interview itself.

I’ve never had complaints as a customer, but I don’t really know the inner workings.

So I can only hope it’s a good environment.

“Mmm… Everyone’s so amazing except me. Nina-chi and Maki-kun with jobs, Seki-kun with clubs, Umi with bride training… I’m just spacing out every day.”

“Really? We’re just doing what we each think we need to—doesn’t mean you have to panic over doing nothing, Yuu. Though we’ll ‘talk’ later about that bride training comment.”

Umi’s secretly been learning cooking from Sora-san lately (I look away from her silent pressure), but I get why Amami-san feels that way.

Seeing everyone picking paths for what they want (needed or not), it’s easy to feel left behind and anxious.

Even if it’s just an illusion and we’re all just fumbling short-term.

“Then how about you try a job too, Yuu-chin? For social experience—like waitressing at a family restaurant or raking in cash from otaku types like the Class Rep at a maid café?”

“…Nina, don’t drag my bestie into shady businesses.”

“Kidding, kidding. I don’t have those connections anyway~”

“Maid… Amami-san in a maid outfit…”

“…Nozomu, I can hear your inner voice from here.”

Still, Amami-san could totally rock it as a shop’s poster girl… but with her eye-catching looks, she’d probably get hit on more and deal with hassles.

“Haha… Even if I wanted a job, my mom probably wouldn’t let me. She’s always like, ‘Playing is a part of a student’s job~’”

“Playing is a part, huh, Yuu? Not only?”

“Muu~ I get that much! Umi, you bully~”

So the Amami household’s got decent financial leeway, I guess.

Umi says their place is ‘barely commoner—meaning well above average,’ so there’s no need to force social experience.

The world’s unfairness can wait till adulthood—Daichi-san’s words, but maybe Amami-san’s parents think the same.

…Still, pulling that off takes money, which is the tough part.

After school, waved off by the four, I head to the shop for my interview.

I’m not a customer today but an interviewee, so I gotta switch gears and not chat like I’m ordering.

“Maki, good luck. Got everything? resume, no forgotten stuff?”

“Yeah, I’m good. Umi, you sound like my mom.”

“Like Auntie Masaki? Maybe… B-But I’m still worried about you, Maki.”

I part with Amami-san, Nitta-san, and Nozomu at the classroom, but Umi tags along a bit more. I was the nervous wreck during class, but now it’s totally flipped.

Seeing my face stiffen as the time nears, she’s worrying more than I am, like it’s her own thing.

Not the time to think it, but that part’s really cute.

“Alright, Umi, I’m off.”

“Yeah, see you. I’m heading home today, but let me know when you’re done.”

“Got it.”

We walk hand-in-hand to the split, parting at the underpass intersection.

Glancing back on a whim, I see Umi looking too, giving a small wave, and it makes me chuckle a bit.

We’re so alike in stuff like this, me and Umi.

“…Alright, here we go.”

Boosted by Umi’s figure, I step into Pizza Rocket Joutou Station Branch, my regular pizza spot, after a while.

It’s been ages since I came in person, but the unique vibe—the mix of fresh dough, cheese, and spice smells—hasn’t changed.

“Oh, welcome~… Huh? Wait, Maehara-kun? No sale today—coming in’s rare.”

“H-Hi. Always thanks for your help.”

Greeting me at the counter is the familiar female worker who usually delivers to my place.

If I recall her delivery name tag, it’s Nakada Emi-san. A bit older than us, probably a college student.

“Uh, actually, I’m not here to order today—I’m here for the part-time job interview… Is the manager in?”

“Oh… Right, I was told, ‘There’s an interview today, so cover the shop, ‘kay?’ Hey~ Manager~! The interview kid’s here—what do we do~?”

Yelling that, Nakada-san heads into the kitchen.

I wait there, resume in hand, until a stocky guy—presumably the manager—comes out in place of Nakada-san, who’d disappeared into the back.

“Hey, nice to meet you, Maehara-kun. I’m Sakaki, the manager here. The room’s… uh, ready, so let’s do a quick interview there.”

“Yes, please take care of me.”

I bow lightly and follow the manager through the counter, past the kitchen, into a room labeled ‘Changing Room & Office.’

“Sorry, it’s been busy lately, so it’s not super tidy. Take a seat there.”

“Thanks…”

Maybe regular work keeps it like this—a cramped one-to-two-tatami space stuffed with a PC and papers for admin, spare uniforms, and cardboard boxes of kitchen tools. My chair barely fits with no room to step.

I figure most restaurant offices are like this, but seeing it up close, it looks tough.

“So, can I see your resume first?”

“Yes. Here… Please take a look.”

“Thanks. Hmm, you’re a regular, so I’ll skip the name and school stuff… Let’s just hear your reason for applying. Oh, be honest—it’s fine. Nakada-kun over there boldly said, ‘I want play money,’ after all.”

“Haha… Then I’ll take you up on that.”

As he looks over my resume, I answer a few questions.

From my reason for applying to preferred shifts if hired, plus random chats about what’s trending at school—thanks to the manager’s friendly vibe, I manage to respond decently without too much nerves, even stumbling a bit.

All thanks to Umi giving up her precious weekend to help me.

After more light chat, about twenty minutes pass, and the manager nods, satisfied.

“—Alright, we went a bit overtime, but that’s it for the interview. If you’re hired, we’ll call soon; if not, we’ll mail the resume back. Wait a sec, okay?”

“Yes. Thank you very much.”

I bow properly again, exiting the cramped office with the manager just as the warm smell of fresh pizza hits—Nakada-san’s mid-cooking an order.

Her big, bright eyes lock onto me.

“O-Oh, good work. So, how’d the interview go? Hired? You’re hired, right? New buddy. Hey, Manager, what’s the deal? What’s the plan?”

“Whoa, whoa, we just finished—can’t decide that fast… Oh, Maehara-kun, since you’re here, try some of our stuff. It’s a new item we’re planning—wanna hear a young person’s take. You’re a regular, after all.”

“Oh, sure. If that’s okay.”

Guided to the dine-in area as the manager says, I taste-test some upcoming items Nakada-san cooked.

Still prototypes, but this place stays bold—curry pizza with rice piled on, or a burger pizza with a giant patty between two standard pies. It’s like a kid’s ‘Wouldn’t this be awesome on pizza?’ lineup.

…My verdict after trying? ‘Seriously delicious.’

Guess my tongue’s pretty childish too—no helping it.

“By the way, Maehara-kun, you mentioned money as a reason, but there’s more, right? I heard about your family stuff—sorry for prying—and I don’t think it’s a lie, but… Oh, this won’t affect the decision, so don’t worry.”

Umi and I listed ‘easing my family’s finances’ as a reason, but the real one’s different.

He said to be honest, but splitting truth and tact is tricky, making it a tough call.

“…Uh—”

‘No, nothing else’ would be the safe bet.

But I feel bad for the manager, who took busy time to meet me.

“…Yeah, actually, my girlfriend’s birthday’s in April, so I wanna cover the gift myself…”

“Oh, you’ve got a girlfriend, Maehara-kun! At your age, she must be so cute you can’t stand it.”

“Well, yeah. A lot.”

I end up spilling the real deal. My shift hopes were so minimal for study’s sake, he probably saw through me anyway.

“I see… Then you’ve gotta work hard, huh?”

“Yeah. It’s my first time working ever, and honestly, I’m super anxious if I can even do it.”

Still, I wanted to see her happy face—that’s why I thought it.

Seeing my flushed cheeks as I answer, the manager grins slyly.

“Got it, got it… Man, so youthful. It’s not even about me, but I’m getting embarrassed just hearing it.”

“No, sorry. I shouldn’t have brought up stuff like this.”

“Haha, maybe. But we’re pretty chill about that kinda thing here. Right, Nakada-kun?”

“Yeah~ Unlike you two, I’ve got no spouse or lover, so I don’t get it. More importantly, Manager, get back to your post already. I’m heading out for delivery.”

“Yes, yes, I know~”

The manager reties his uniform apron and takes over Nakada-san’s kitchen duties.

With dusk nearing, the shop looks busy and tough, but I find myself thinking I’d like to work with Nakada-san and the manager.

“…Well, Manager, and Nakada-san too… Thanks for everything today. Hired or not, I’ll keep ordering like always.”

“Oh, thanks as always. I’ll deliver it myself next time.”

“Seriously, thank you every week. We don’t have many regulars, so customers like you are gold. Looking forward to more.”

“Yes. Same here.”

Bowing repeatedly, thanking them for the taste-test too, today’s mission wraps up.

And that same day, I officially get hired at Pizza Rocket.

A few days after the hiring call, it’s my first shift today, so I head to the shop after school.

Shifts are one weekday besides Friday plus either Saturday or Sunday—roughly two days a week. Pay’s just above minimum wage, but they’re cool with my selfish schedule requests.

“Uh… G-Good morning!”

“Morning, Maehara-kun. From today, you’re not just a customer but an employee too. Here’s your uniform. Nakada-kun’s changing now, so swap with her after.”

“Got it. Looking forward to working here.”

Tucking the bagged new uniform under my arm, I head to the back just as Nakada-san steps out of the changing room.

Short, neat hair and a slim frame—I hadn’t noticed much during deliveries, but up close, she’s pretty gorgeous.

“! Oh, you’re here, Maki! I’ll be on shift with you for a while to teach you the ropes. I’m tough, so brace yourself, ’kay?”

“Y-Yes. Please take care of me, Nakada-san.”

“Call me Emi. We’re working together now—keep it casual. I’ll call you by name like earlier too.”

“Uh, then… Emi-senpai?”

“Ooh, love that vibe. Let’s go with it. Hurry up and change already.”

She pats my back lightly, nudging me into the changing room. My locker’s already set with a ‘Maehara’ tag—I stash my bag and uniform, slipping into the shop’s gear.

“…Yeah, guess this works.”

The new uniform smell hits as I don the black cap left in the locker, checking myself in the small mirror.

Everything’s new and weird, but I’ll get used to it working. It’s all experience.

“—Sorry for the wait. Once again, please take care of me, Emi-senpai.”

“Yep. Let’s start with the easy stuff.”

So, before cooking or customer service, I learn store cleaning and ingredient restocking first.

Doing it myself, I realize even simple tasks need meticulous care and can be tough.

Cleaning greasy tools, pest control, trash disposal—just a bit, and time flies.

Doing this near-daily, on top of serving, cooking, and prep in spare moments… Yeah, it’s hard work.

“For now, your basic flow’s like this, Maki. First thirty minutes of your shift, handle most of the cleaning. After, prep ingredients running low midday, then take delivery calls or in-person customers. At first, cleaning and prep’ll overwhelm you, but you’ll eventually handle cooking too. I did.”

“…Yes, I-I’ll do my best.”

Emi-senpai’s with me through February to teach, but March onward we’re separate, so I gotta nail the manual.

…Working’s seriously tough.

Today’s focus is ingredient prep, so I tackle tasks bit by bit as Emi-senpai shows me the tools.

“Emi-senpai, is this okay here?”

“Yep. Huh, I figured high schoolers barely touch knives, but you’re pretty good. Do you cook at home or something?”

“Yeah. Mom’s always home late, so…”

“Wow, good kid~ I’m all takeout once I’m home. Hey, come cook at my place on a day off~ I’ll pay extra~”

“Haha… Sorry, I’ll pass on off-hours stuff.”

“Oh, cheeky for a newbie, huh~ You little~”

I’m her first junior here, it seems, and Emi-senpai’s all over me.

I’d clocked her as casual from the start—grateful for her kind guidance, but her touchiness since earlier’s throwing me off.

Maybe it’s normal for college kids?

Quiet tasks suit me—I finish the prep in an hour, then watch Emi-san and the manager cook nearby.

“There’s a manual for all items the manager made, but when it’s busy, you can’t cook by it—so you just learn by doing. Don’t worry, forget an ingredient, slap on extra cheese, and no one notices.”

“Nakada-kun, save that talk for when I’m not around… Though I do it sometimes too. Maehara-kun, don’t let bad seniors rub off on you.”

“H-Huh…”

Trading quips, they whip up orders slickly—pre-cut dough sized as needed, topped with varying sauces and ingredients, slid into the pizza oven. They prep sides meantime, handing fresh goods and slips to the delivery crew.

“There, done. We’ve got tons of items, but only a few sell big, so learn the mains first and check the manual for the rest—that’s the easy way.”

“Yeah. Sounds better than memorizing everything.”

Next shift, I’ll cook with Emi-san, so today I memorize the pizza sauces and ingredient spots lined up in the kitchen.

Each item’s set—tomatoes in fridge 1’s top right, basil below on the left—so I train my head and body to move fast when orders hit.

I’m still shy with people, but I don’t hate memorizing, so I study my notes from Emi-san and the manager, starting with where everything is.

“Hmm… Time limits made me hesitate on high schoolers, Maehara-kun included… but Nakada-kun was right to push for it.”

“Right~? Maki’s quiet but handy with a knife, smart too. Plus, he’s got a girlfriend—that’s gotta count.”

“Why so much trust in the girlfriend part…?”

Emi-senpai’s logic’s a mystery, but spilling the truth seems to have paid off.

The manager said it wouldn’t sway hiring, but he can’t ignore Emi-san’s take on my work either.

The world’s mostly unfair, but sometimes it swings your way.

Maybe it’s not so bad after all.

Finishing phone orders, we three take a breather when—

Ding-dong.

The chime rings, signaling a customer.

“Oh, perfect timing. Maki, since they’re here, try cashier duty with service. I’ll go first—watch from behind.”

“Y-Yes.”

Following Emi-senpai from the kitchen to the counter—

“Welcome~ Takeout?”

“W-Welcome… Wait, huh?”

My first customer service gig—I’m tense stepping up, but across the counter’s a familiar face.

“Maki-kun, ehe, we came!”

“Oh, the Class Rep in uniform, working. Kinda funny.”

“…Yo.”

My first customers are Umi and the usual trio of girls.

They knew today’s my shift, so I half-expected it—relieved, but a bit let down too.

“Oh? What’s this? These girls your school pals, Maki?”

“Yes, all three are my classmates… You could’ve told me you were coming.”

“Sorry, Maki-kun, we thought teasing might be bad, but we all got curious… By the way, the person next to you’s a senior? She’s super pretty!”

Amami-san asks with a teasing smile on purpose.

…And Umi’s side-eyeing me with a scary stare.

“Hey~ I’m Nakada, starting today as this kid’s mentor. College sophomore, nineteen, boyfriend applications open.”

“Oh, really? So pretty yet… Ohh, I get it, Class Rep—that’s why. All that ‘good conditions’ talk, but this was the real goal, huh?”

“N-No, I knew Nakada-san, but that’s not why I—”

“Hm? Nakada-san? Hey, Maki, didn’t I just say call me Emi? Or… got something to hide~?”

“No, you did, but in front of customers, insider vibes might—”

Amami-san’s joking opens the floodgates—Nitta-san and sharp Emi-senpai pile on.

Umi’s muttered ‘idiot’ stabs my ears and, somehow, my heart.

I didn’t do anything wrong, I swear.

“Anyway, since you’re here, order properly. Here’s the menu.”

“Thanks~ U-Umi, c’mon, let’s have Maki-kun make it. What’ll it be?”

“Geez, you’re all so shameless… Fine, teriyaki chicken.”

“Got it. I’ll prep it now, so sit over there and wait a bit.”

Taking their money and ringing it up as Emi-senpai taught, my first customers being friends makes it casual—but that lets me take it slow, which helps.

“Alright, I’ll let the manager teach you cooking. I’ll chat with these girls… uh, I mean, mind the shop.”

“Chatting’s fine, but please handle the shop too.”

Curious what she’ will say to Umi and them, but work’s first. Might as well make Amami-san and Nitta-san my experience guinea pigs.

Explaining to the manager, I start on the order as instructed.

Pre-cut dough’s ready by size, so I follow the manager—sauce, toppings, cheese, and extras, then bake.

“Maehara-kun, bit too much cheese. It’s on us this time, but watch it next time.”

“Y-Yes.”

Eating it, I never noticed, but gram precision and presentation matter—tons to think about.

After the manager’s okay, I box it in the familiar delivery box, bag it with their zero-cal colas, and head back to the counter.

“Sorry for the wait. Here’s your M-size teriyaki chicken pizza and three zero-calorie colas.”

“Oh, it’s here. Guess I’ll head back to my spot. Maki, take it from here.”

Trading goodbyes with the trio, Emi-senpai strides back to the kitchen.

(Maki, Umi-chan’s a great girlfriend. Treasure her.)

Patting my shoulder as she passes, she whispers that.

Guess she hit it off with Umi—classic Emi-senpai.

“…Umi, what’d you talk about with Emi-senpai?”

“Hm~ Secret, maybe. If anything, girl talk.”

“Well, if it’s not bad, that’s fine.”

Promising to call Umi after work, I part with them as they take their order and head back to the kitchen.

“Maki, onions are low—prep more, please.”

“Yes, got it.”

“Maehara-kun, sorry while you’re prepping, but help with cooking too. Just easy stuff like frying chicken or potatoes.”

“Understood.”

It’s just before 6 p.m.—phones ringing nonstop with orders.

Weekday shifts end at 8 p.m., so I’ve got one last push.

“So… tired—”

Done with my unexpectedly busy shift at Pizza Rocket, I walk home alone down dark streets.

My body’s hot from staying on edge working—February’s cold wind barely registers now.

Tension’s snapped, and all I want is to crash in bed.

4 p.m. to 8 p.m., four hours, but the exhaustion’s way worse than a full school day.

“Emi-senpai said it’d get easier with time… Really?”

Once I learn where to cut corners, I might work smoothly, but today was just a slice of the job—tons left to master next shift and beyond.

I was fine today, but eventually, I’ll face rude customers or unfair complaints… Becoming useful here’s still far off.

(Maehara) Umi

(Asanagi) Oh

(Asanagi) Good work

(Asanagi) How was it?

(Maehara) Tired sleepy

(Asanagi) Fufu, yeah? You worked hard today

(Asanagi) School’s tomorrow, so get home and sleep

(Maehara) Will do. But I might oversleep from this

(Asanagi) It’s fine. I’ll wake you up tomorrow morning

(Asanagi) Geez, Maki’s such a spoiled kid no matter how old he gets

(Maehara) We’re the spoiled alliance, aren’t we?

(Asanagi) Oh, right, we are

Chatting with Umi, my tense body finally unwinds.

It’s not a weekend, so Umi’s curfew’s passed, but texting like this makes me wanna lean on her more.

I wanna talk about today close to Umi—everything.

The tough stuff, the surprisingly fun bits, the manager, Emi-senpai.

If I don’t tonight, I’ll just play it off like ‘no big deal’ to look cool later.

Should I call her now—thinking that as I step into my apartment’s entrance—

“—Maki!”

“Huh?”

Waiting for me, Umi spots me, beams like a blooming flower, and runs over.

Fresh from a bath, her sweet shampoo scent tickles my nose.

“Maki, welcome back. Wow, you look dead tired. You okay?”

“Barely. Wait, why are you…”

“Surprised? Ehe, I told your mom about your job, and she said to bring you this. Leftovers. You haven’t eaten yet, right?”

Unwrapping her bundle, there’s Tupperware of Sora-san’s cooking—chicken wings and daikon stew, hijiki rice onigiri, salad—all stuff I loved from New Year’s, still warm, no reheating needed.

“…Gonna eat.”

“Yep. I’ll set it up, so hit the bath. You worked hard—you’re sweaty.”

“I’ll take you up on that, but your curfew’s okay?”

“It’s not really, but just for today. Your first day, you’re all tired out—I wanna pamper you lots. No sleepover since school’s tomorrow, though.”

“No sleepovers even if it were a day off…”

Still, some time with Umi now’s awesome.

The fatigue dragging me down till home feels lighter thanks to her.

Just a feeling, though—gotta rest proper or I’ll crash like before, so no extra playtime.

“I’m home.”

“Welcome back… It’s kinda weird saying that as a guest here.”

“True… Heh.”

Trading quips, we head in—Umi preps my dinner, I hit the bath as told.

Filling the tub and stripping, I sniff my undershirt—beyond usual sweat, it’s got the kitchen’s smell. Proof I worked hard, I guess. Gotta wash it off.

“…Phew.”

Sinking shoulder-deep, I let out a big breath.

Classes all day, then work till night—today’s probably the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life.

Makes me respect Mom even more, grinding late—sometimes past midnight—every day.

…Gotta be a bit nicer to her when she oversleeps from now on.

“—Maki, I put a towel and clothes on the washer.”

“Oh, yeah. Thanks, Umi.”

“No prob. Food’s ready, so take your time coming out.”

Her slippers patter back to the kitchen.

“…This is nice.”

Hearing sounds beyond the frosted glass calms me down.

I’m not alone now. Someone cares about me more than anyone, waiting for me to come home.

That it’s my favorite girl makes me so damn lucky.

Scrubbing down with soap, I shampoo my slightly longer hair clean.

“…Come to think of it, it’s gotten pretty long.”

Rinsing the suds, I check my bangs over my eyes.

Usually I’d wait longer to cut it, but with the job, maybe I should hit the salon soon. Hate people touching my hair, though, so I avoid it unless I have to.

“—Oh, smells good.”

Done bathing, I change into the pajamas Umi left and head to the living room—her prepped food’s delicious aroma greets my empty stomach.

“Oh, you’re all fresh now. Food’s ready—let’s eat together.”

“Together… Wait, you didn’t eat yet?”

“Nope. Well, I nibbled a bit, but I didn’t wanna eat alone while you were working hard. Couldn’t stomach much. But prepping this got me starving… Ehe.”

Rubbing her belly, Umi blushes shyly.

I thought the portions seemed big—maybe Sora-san planned for us to share.

Proof’s in the two plates, perfectly split.

“…Got it. Eating alone in front of you’d be lonely too, so let’s eat together.”

“Yup!”

With Umi’s reheated dishes plus instant miso soup we made, our little dinner starts.

Usually we order out when eating together, so home cooking here feels fresh.

“This is good.”

“Right? The meat’s tender, and the vinegar keeps it light.”

“Goes great with rice too. Yeah, this onigiri’s tasty.”

“Oh, really? I made that rice, actually. Well, I just cut stuff—Mom seasoned and cooked it in the rice cooker. But I shaped the onigiri myself!”

“Oh, nice. If it’s good, I don’t care who did what.”

“You won’t get mad if I say the shape’s messy? C’mon, gimme an honest take—don’t dodge!”

“Uh… It’s got, uh, love in its shape… Taste too, of course.”

“Fail.”

“Ow!”

I tried avoiding lies, but Umi’s creepy blank smile and forehead flick hit me anyway.

Swear I wasn’t mocking her—knowing she shaped it made it taste better, honest.

Girlfriend or not, communication’s still tough.

“Geez, stop goofing and eat already. I gotta head back soon today.”

“Yeah. I need to crash early too.”

She says I don’t need to walk her home tonight, so after eating, it’s just sleep prep.

Work fatigue and a full belly from good food—I could knock out any second.

I got to tell Umi everything over dinner, so nothing’s left undone today.

“Maki, I’m heading out soon.”

“Yeah.”

After cleaning up and chilling at the kotatsu for thirty minutes to settle, I see Umi off to the entrance.

“Maki, this is far enough.”

“…Yeah, take care.”

At the door, we slowly untangle our linked fingers.

Like always, being with Umi makes me think ‘just a bit longer.’

A bit more time together, holding hands, chatting and laughing about nothing.

A bit more of my favorite person’s warmth, soft skin, scent.

I know too much selfishness is bad, though.

“…Umi, uh, thanks for today. I feel ready for tomorrow now.”

“Fufu, you’re so dramatic, Maki. But I’m happy you said that. Thanks for relying on me too.”

One last hug to recharge on Umi till morning.

She’s turned me into a total softie, but just with her, that’s fine.

“…Maki, next week’s Valentine’s, huh?”

“Oh yeah, it’s that time already… Time’s flying.”

“Yeah. Fun times really zip by.”

That’s why I wanna keep making regret-free, happy days with Umi.

…Though I’m a tiny bit worried about her homemade chocolate’s outcome.