Chapter 2- Okoro

Chapter 2-

Earlier that day-

"Hey, Yuuki, what are you ordering today?" the boy behind the counter asked, a hint of amusement in his voice.

He is Asahi Saburo, the son of the café owner. It is my usual routine to come to his café whenever I have time. The name of the café is Okoro, When you enter the café, you'll feel cosy with comfortable with soft lighting and nice decorations. The counter is the main focus, where talented baristas make delicious coffee. You'll hear the sounds of beans being ground and the steam from the espresso machine, and the delightful smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. There are also different types of seating, like comfy chairs or wooden tables, and some quiet corners for those who want privacy. You can choose to sit alone or join others at communal tables. Soft music plays in the background, creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere without being too loud.

I flashed with a mischievous smirk as I leaned against the counter. "One cup of strong coffee, please," I replied confidently, my excitement evident. "With six tablespoons of coffee." Asahi raised an eyebrow, a playful scolding in his eyes. "You really should consider reducing your coffee intake, Yuuki," he advised with a teasing tone.

I chuckled, acknowledging his well-intentioned concern. "I know, I know," I responded, my smirk widening. "But sometimes, a strong cup of coffee is all that you need on such a boring day," I said while raising my eyebrow. "Sit wherever you want," Asahi said with a friendly smile, gesturing to the cosy seating area of the café. Being close friends with the café owner’s son definitely has its perks.

I looked around, scanning the café for the perfect spot to settle in. The place exuded a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with soft lighting and comfortable seating arrangements. Each corner seemed to hold a story, with patrons engaged in conversations or lost in their thoughts.

I chose a cosy booth with dual seats near the window, allowing the natural light to filter in as I took my seat. The familiar surroundings brought a sense of comfort and relaxation. I knew I could unwind here, surrounded by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the gentle hum of conversations.

Asahi joined me shortly after, carrying a tray with our drinks. He effortlessly balanced the tray, a testament to his familiarity with the café and its workings. With a practised motion, he placed my cup of coffee in front of me, the steam rising enticingly from the dark liquid.

"Thanks, Asahi," I said, grateful for his hospitality. "It's always nice to have a place to call my own, especially when it's filled with good company and great coffee."

He chuckled, taking a seat across from me. "You're welcome, Yuuki,"

In a matter of seconds, the café door rattled, capturing my attention. I turned my gaze towards the entrance, curious about the newcomer who had arrived. A girl with long sunset orange hair tied in twin tails, accentuated by her amber eyes, walked into the café with an air of confidence.

Her vibrant presence was undeniable as she seamlessly approached the counter, showing a card to the employee who had taken Asahi's place. The card, I presumed, was a frequent customer or loyalty card that granted her certain privileges.

As I observed her from my booth, I couldn't help but be captivated by her unique beauty. There was a certain radiance about her, an aura that seemed to draw attention wherever she went. Her style was distinct, reflecting her individuality, and her eyes held a glimmer of curiosity and royalty.

"Shits, I have to go," Asahi exclaimed, a puzzled aura enveloping him. His sudden urgency caught my attention, and I watched as he swiftly made his way towards the girl who had just entered the café.

Curiosity tinged with concern welled up within me as I wondered what had transpired to evoke such a reaction from my friend. He returned to my side, his expression carrying a hint of request. "Bro, you'll have to share your table," Asahi said, a tinge of apprehension evident on his face.

"What?!" I exclaimed, my voice laced with a mixture of surprise and reluctance. "You know I'm as anti-social and crazy as the next person."

Asahi pleaded with me, his eyes conveying a silent plea. "Please, do it for me."

His earnest appeal softened my resolve. As much as I cherished my solitary moments, I couldn't turn down a request from a friend in need. Besides, there was something about this situation that piqued my curiosity, and perhaps sharing my table would unravel the mysteries that had unfolded earlier.

With a sigh, I reluctantly gestured for the girl to join us. She approached with a polite smile, her presence adding a new dynamic to our little corner of the café. I couldn't help but feel a mix of anticipation and trepidation as she settled into the seat beside me.

The atmosphere crackled with unspoken tension, as if the café itself held its breath, waiting to see what this unexpected alliance would bring.

The girl moved towards my booth with surprising swiftness. She approached with gentle grace, leaning in and settling herself onto the chair beside me. Her presence radiated a warm and inviting aura. "It is a pleasure to meet you, I am Rika Masuri" the girl introduced herself, her voice carrying a melodic quality that added to her charm. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of curiosity and friendliness.

I couldn't help but feel a tinge of confusion as Rika Oyama chose to sit in the same booth as me. It was a decision that caught me off guard, leaving me wondering why she had decided to join me in such proximity. A part of me wanted to retreat into my familiar solitude, maintaining the boundaries I had grown accustomed to.

However, as I glanced at Rika's smiling face and the genuine curiosity in her eyes, I couldn't bring myself to voice my perplexity. Perhaps there was a reason, a purpose behind her choice that I had yet to discover. Suppressing my initial hesitation, I decided to let the situation unfold naturally.

"Do you mind if I keep sitting over here" Rika's voice broke through the silence, disrupting my thoughts? Inwardly, I hesitated, the desire to be alone conflicting with the uncertainty of this unexpected situation. However, I knew that refusing her request outright would be impolite. I took a moment to gather my composure before responding. "No, not at all," I replied in my mind. Rika flashed a bright smile and gracefully took a seat beside me. “STARE….STARE” Rika, slowly uttered as she stared at me with a heavy glance.