Tanimaki Enters a Bread-Baking Contest (Part 7)

“I admit defeat. Coco, I recognize you as a fully fledged baker. I’m truly sorry for all the terrible things I said to you.”

Chocomaru bowed his head to Coco.

The way he readily acknowledged Coco’s talent showed why he was a first-rate baker himself.

“I did it! He finally accepted me!”

Coco rejoiced with innocent delight. Being recognized by someone she admired meant even more to her than winning the contest.

Chocomaru renamed the bakery from Chocomaru Bakery to Coco & Choco in honor of Coco’s achievement.

Coco & Choco became busier than ever. News of the bakery’s success at the contest had spread by word of mouth.

“Customers don’t care whether the person who baked their bread is a woman or a man. If it tastes good, they’ll buy it,” said Mayutan.

“You’re absolutely right…”

Chocomaru’s expression as he replied was remarkably serene.

With the bakery now short-staffed, Tanimaki and his companions helped serve the customers. Before long, Chocomaru and Coco hired several new employees.

Coco dyed her fur pink. In the past, Chocomaru would have objected, insisting that it was inappropriate for a baker.

But he had come to understand that what mattered was not outward appearances, but what lay within.

—80 Days Until Tanimaki’s Death—