Hello hello hello hellooooo! The little INTRO that goes through there🙋‍♂️I wrote this story in french for the first time on wattpad and I discovered this app and saw that it was in English. So I thought "why not writing my story in English?" Please be indulgent! I dunno if I write stories well but I admit that I enjoy writing yes yes. I wrote it while watching a tennis match so I hope it's okay anyway?!👀 Happy reading teddy bears!

Characters intro \=\=\=> The main ones:

Name: Katsuro - first name: Shigeo - Nickname: Hide (the playboy? -_- )

...~Ryuji is the only one who calls him by his nickname "Hide" because he was simply the one who gave him this nickname. He added that he found it cool because it was like a secret that the two of them just shared. (While he often calls him that in front of others too)~...

Name: Tamotsu - first name: Ryuji - nickname: Yu // Ryu (best friend of Shigeo)

...~His nicknames come from Shigeo who had no choice, it was rather Ryuji who insisted on finding him a nickname since he had given him one. However, Shigeo calls him by his real first name (Ryuji) most of the time, because he finds it a very classy first name. The times he calls him by these nicknames are rare.~...

Name: Yasushi - first name: Tsuneo (the bartender)

Identity unknown at this time. (normal this is the beginning of the story lol)

Now, it's too much. It's decided, I'm done with women! Why this sudden decision making? Because I just got dumped, once again! I got used to it so much that now I can't even be sad. I don't understand that we can dump a rich guy like me...

Okay, before we get to that, I'm going to explain to you the why and how I got into this situation. How about we start with my past?

Before I became a rich, exceptional, handsome and best of all guy, I was a run-of-the-mill guy. In fact, I was even completely sucking. I was born in Miyakojima. It's an island in Okinawa, Japan. I grew up there and took my first steps there. We were a happy family back then.

But we weren't lucky when it came to money. We never had enough money to have fun, for example. Money was a taboo subject in our family. I even envied my school friends when they had a new pair of sneakers or a new coat. I was always off topic for new video games or fashion, since you could hardly ever buy me anything. Sometimes I resented my parents because I was fed up with wearing the same clothes.

We were not poor ... but in the eyes of the people we were miserable. Because of that, I didn't have a lot of friends. Well, almost not. I say almost no, because despite everything there were 3 people who were my friends. Sometimes I wondered why they wanted to stay with me, but the feeling of having a few people to talk to, if only to express our anger over life or just to be listened to and have a good time together, did not displease me. So on one side, deep inside, I was praying that these people would stay with me. Unfortunately, for some reason, they had started to drift further and further away from me, until one day I found myself on my own for good. I quickly felt silly to have been happy to have had a few friends. To put us even more in trouble, my father's work was no longer going well enough. So he made the decision to quit to look elsewhere. Except that he started to tell us about a business project, I hadn't quite understood and my mother, with blind confidence, immediately agreed to the idea. So he told us about moving to Tokyo.

Then we really moved to Tokyo. So my father started a business there. Well, she didn't really walk at first ... but fate made my dad meet a man (who looked high up) on his way. I say on his way, but in fact, it was right outside his business door, like Santa Claus knocking on the door. He had come to take a look and asked my father if he had just arrived in Tokyo. And it was from there, if I remember correctly, that they started to discuss and get to know each other, always at the front of the door and that "the high-ranking man" in I don't know how, started to work for my father. Besides, I was right, he was really in a high position. Apparently he was a really important person since he owned several businesses in Tokyo. Lucky? Had we been lucky to meet him? I don't know if it was all luck, but my father, instead of being even a little suspicious, accepted his help right away. And so, thanks to the high-ranking man (by the way, I knew his name, but I forgot, because me and the names, first names, thing, that's not my thing) we started to have a good life, until we become really rich. At first, I found this story a little weird, but I quickly stopped asking myself questions when people started to take an interest in me. So, I continued to grow up and make my life in Tokyo, sometimes thinking about Okinawa that I loved so much, but I knew that from there my life was going to be a success.

I am in a high school well placed, large and which is impressed you from the outside to the inside. It's not a private high school, although I would have liked to, but my parents insisted. I'm kinda not very good at classes, but I have money, so I don't care. There I met a super cool guy who right now is my best friend. His name is Ryuji and he's 18 like me. And that's it, I think that's all about my past, for now. Ah, yes my mom and dad were getting divorced a little while later when we moved in. My father has been with a new wife ever since. But how to say? She doesn't really inspire me with confidence sometimes. I don't know how to explain, but I have the impression that she is using my father and I dare not say anything to him. Also, her presence makes me uncomfortable sometimes. Fortunately, this is not my biological mother. Maybe I'm just imagining things, but she can never be my real mother anyway. I always call her by her first name even if my father doesn't like it, but you can't replace a mother. My mother is still my mother, even though she no longer lives with us, I am still in contact with her.

So what if we come back to the present now? I have class! I have to go before I'm late!

Yes the first chapter is very short, it's true! (But it's not a real chapter anyway) -_- in truth it's more of an intro chapter we will say. It's to put you in the bath of history and that you know a little better what it's about!

So I told a little about his past to this cute little boy, hoping that it makes you want to read it a LITTLE. Seriously at least A LITTLE! So uh I had this story in mind so I thought I was going to start writing it. With that, I hope you enjoyed this little intro chapter! Sorry for the mistakes if there are any !! Any advice and comments I take with pleasure! Adioooooooos!✌

"Okay, I have to go to class! Even if it's to do nothing, considering the price my parents pay, it's better to go." He looked out the window from the top of his room at the entrance to the house, where the cars were parked, and wondered, "Which car am I going with? Red or black? Red! I'll go get Ryuji on the way. I hope he hasn't already left."

He took a shower, then put on jeans, a gray hoodie, and over them, a black leather jacket. He looked at himself one last time in the mirror, a smirk, and went downstairs to lunch. His mother-in-law had already left, and his father was at the door, ready to go. Shigeo, surprised to be the only one at lunch, looked at him surprised.

Father: What's wrong?

Shigeo: Are you leaving already?

Father: Well, yes, it's time! Say, aren't you rather the one who's late?

Shigeo: Oh...maybe.

Father: So hurry up! Alright, I'm going, see you tonight!

"Why does he always slam the door so hard ... damn it, so I'm late? Ryuji too? It wouldn't cost me anything to drop by his house to see." He finished his bowl of cereal, and after choosing the shiny red car, Shigeo got behind the wheel and went to get his best friend. Arrived in front of his house, he honked twice, but the blond did not come out. The annoyed redhead then decided to go, but at the last moment, he heard someone scream.

Ryuji: S'OKAY, S'OKAY! I'M HERE!

Shigeo*reassured*: So, I'm not the only one late!

Ryuji: C'mon, go, quick! We're seriously late!

Shigeo: Calm down! It's not the first time we've been late!

Ryuji: Exactly! My parents are fed up, y'know! I'm not fed up ... but it's too much for them!

Shigeo: What are you afraid of? We don't care what they think. You can have a future without going to high school.

Ryuji: Dude, we're talking about a big high school here. Ya know better than I how expensive she is.

Shigeo*sigh*: If it's too expensive for you, I can pay for you, it's okay stop, we don't care.

Ryuji: That's not the question! I manage very well on my own! And then, I know ya well that ya have money to throw in the air.

Shigeo: I'm not throwing it in the air, I'm offering it to all my friends. And you, as I love you a lot, I give you a lot! Logical, right?

Ryuji: I-I'm not saying that for that... Forget it. And then first, where are ya going? It's not the way to high school!

Shigeo*sadistic smile*: I know, idiot. I changed my mind! We are going for a romantic walk today, you're okay with it?

Ryuji*shocked*: B-But, no! Nah, nah, nah! Hide, please!

Shigeo: It's okay, it's okay, they are used to not hearing an answer when our names are called! And then, have you seen the time already? It's too late to go to high school now.

Ryuji*sighs*: Ya are really annoying, man.

Shigeo: You too, that's why we found each other so good!

Ryuji: Where are we even going?

Shigeo: Hm ... I wanted to take you to my room and give you lots of hugs, but it's only ten o'clock, I wouldn't have wanted to.

Ryuji: Hey, you're not funny. Seriously, is that kidnapping or what? Tired of being my mate, is that it? Ya want to get rid of me or something, moron?

Shigeo: Whoahey, why are you panicking? It's not like we're doing this for the first time.

Ryuji: ... Sorry, I know but I'm afraid they'll call my parents.

Shigeo: I'll give them some money if you want, so it's settled, and they'll not call anymore.

Ryuji: You're stupid, Hide. It doesn't work like that.

Shigeo: I was serious.

Ryuji: I'll tell ya again, then. It doesn't work like that!

Shigeo: Ok, it's good. Listen, you just have to tell your parents that I was the one who took you to skip school. That way they won't know it was your fault too.

Ryuji: No, they wouldn't like me to see ya anymore afterward. And then, I point out to ya that this time, it's really not my fault! I was determined to go to class!

Shigeo: Yeah, yeah, this time you were. But your parents, they don't count by telling each other this time or this time. *Imitating parents,* Oh honey, this time our love didn't go to class! Oh! But that's okay, this time he went! Oh! But you are right! Oh, oh, oh!

Ryuji *annoyed*: Ya serious ... who thinks like that ya stupid or what ... and, don't take yourself for Santa Claus, ya insult him there.

Shigeo: You could have laughed a little. And what? I will never allow myself to insult your dad.

Ryuji: Huh? Why my dad?

Shigeo: Cause, Santa Claus is your father.

Ryuji: What are ya talking about, moron?

Shigeo: ... wait, don't tell me you still believe in Santa Claus, Yu?

Ryuji *blushes*: L-Leave me alone.

Shigeo: Hahaha, you're so cute! Wait, haven't you ever surprised your father as Santa Claus or something?

Ryuji: N-No! Besides, I don't care if it's my father! The real Santa Claus actually exists somewhere!

Shigeo: Well, yeah in your dreams, haha!

Ryuji *looks at him annoyed*

Shigeo: Hey, stop blushing, you're going to turn as red as my car! How I would do to differentiate you two afterward!

Ryuji: You're pissing me off. And I'm hungry. Ya still haven't told me where we're going.

Shigeo: Oh yeah, that's right. We're just going to the abandoned cabin. Do you remember? We've been there before, and then you freaked out about nonexistent ghosts that would inhabit the place. So we stopped going.

Ryuji: H-Hey, that's wrong! It was because of the construction! Someone was doing some work there, remember ?!

Shigeo: Oh yeah, that's right, there's that too.

Ryuji*sulks*: You're boring.

After driving for a while, they had arrived. It used to be a small abandoned cabin, but for several days someone had come there to do some work. Seeing this, the friends had never been there again, for fear that this person would decide to live there. But on returning, they found that the cabin was completely redone and refurbished. They wondered for a moment if it was inhabited, but after looking at the back windows, there was no one there. Maybe it was really uninhabited, or the owner had been away? Ryuji was rather in a panic at the thought of entering without permission, in this cabin maybe inhabited, but Shigeo reassured him by telling him that there was no one there.

Ryuji: But it looks like it's inhabited! Why would this person have revamped this cabin if it was to leave it like that available!

Shigeo: Stop freaking out! I tell you that there's no one! And first of all, we were the first to see this cabin! It was our cabin!

Ryuji: We don't care about that, Hide! Me, I don't want to be kidnapped or killed because of an old story of a stolen cabin! In addition, it was for nobody, so it's not stealing! *take Shigeo's hand* Come on, let's go home!

Shigeo: No, let go! I'm staying! Go away, if you're freaking out that much!

Shigeo decided to enter the cabin, under the suspicious gaze of Ryuji, who couldn't make up his mind. He wanted to stay with his best friend because he was afraid for him if he left him alone, but also because, on the other hand, he was curious to see the inside. Then there was this part in him that told him to go home! He didn't know what to do and given that Ryuji is a very cowardly person, this choice was more than difficult.

Shigeo: You decide or not! If it turns out time is running out, then I take advantage of it!

Ryuji: H-Hide, please, let's go home ...!

Shigeo: See? You start freaking out again, like the last time! Listen, you come, and after, I give you a comforting hug, alright?

Ryuji: That's ... that won't change anything! I-I-I don't freak out, a-alright?!

Shigeo: Okay, I close the door then, bye.

Ryuji: W-Wait! Don't leave me all alone! I-I come, I come, okay ?!

Shigeo: Seriously, man, you're really unique, I love you.

Ryuji: S-shut up, if we get kidnapped I'll save only myself, idiot.

Once both entered, they were a bit disappointed with the decor. They expected something much more modern. It bothered Ryuji less, who liked vintage a lot, but this was not a pleasant vintage. The carpet chosen, looked like an old carpet that had been eaten away by mice. The sofa was covered with an old stained fabric which gave the impression of not being washed, and the wallpaper was small yellowed flowers accompanied by a small touch of brown. The cabin looked dirty at first glance, but it was quite proper since there was no unpleasant odor. On the contrary, there was even a little smell of flowers that came to tickle your nostrils. Who, moreover, surprised the two friends.

Shigeo: Hey, look. The best moment! Said the redhead, opening the fridge.

Ryuji: Show me!

Shigeo: Whoa, look how full! The person has good tastes, at least for the food!

Ryuji: What is this? I would like to taste ...

Shigeo: I dunno, it looks like stuffed ham.

Ryuji: Hey, what are ya doing ?!

Shigeo: Well what, I open. You said you wanted to taste.

Ryuji: Yeah b-but not his! I meant, like, in a supermarket! Put it back, damn!

Shigeo: I opened it for you! Listen, if you don't want it, I don't care, I taste!

Ryuji: But, H-Hide! What if the person comes back now ?! I-I'm scared! I don't want to be in trouble!

Shigeo: We're always in trouble! It is not entering an abandoned cabin supposedly inhabited that will stop us! Wake up, Yu!

Ryuji: B-b-but ... it's really inhabited, otherwise the fridge wouldn't be full ...

Shigeo: Whoa! It's too good!

Ryuji: H-How does that taste ...? How does that taste?

Shigeo: You want to know, eh? Then, you just have to taste to see!

Ryuji: ... Nah! I-I won't taste it ...

Shigeo sat down on a chair, the bundle of stuffed ham in his hands. Ryuji looked at him longingly but resisted the temptation.

Shigeo: Hey, see if there's any orange juice or something, I don't remember.

Ryuji: Nah, but you're not at home, Hide! It's enough, come on, let's go!

Shigeo: Another five minutes! After we go, I promise.

Ryuji *pissed off *: Damn, what the hell is your problem? I'm going!

Shigeo: E-eh ?! Ryuji! Are you serious, man ?!

Ryuji: Yeah!

Shigeo: Whoa, wait for me at least! Ryu- huh?

The blond was about to open the door when they heard someone arrive. Ryuji's hand had started to shake on the doorknob, and Shigeo was trying to tell him that it was the owner of the cabin. Ryuji bent down to hide and began to fear his life. The redhead looked out the window, hoping to catch a glimpse of a figure, but she had already advanced to the front of the cabin. Shigeo hurried over to his friend, quietly, and whispered to him that he had to open the door and run away, but Ryuji was way too scared and refused. Shigeo then told him that he could carry him and run, but Ryuji, embarrassed, refused again. It was then that Shigeo remembered that they had come by car and told Ryuji that they were going to run to it and be able to run away quietly. Ryuji had stars in his eyes at the idea, and the two of them started to prepare. Shigeo started counting in a low voice as he opened the door slowly, and once the door was fully opened, he took Ryuji's hand and started running with him.

Ryuji: WHOAAA !!! W-W-WAIT, I'M S-SCARED !!

Shigeo: WE DON'T CARE, RUN, DAMMIT!

Ryuji: WAIT, YOU HURT ME, H-HIDE!

They were running, then heard a furious voice behind them.

Owner: HEY! HEY! WHAT WERE YOU DOING AT MY HOME ?! HEY! COME BACK HERE! BAND OF LITTLE ASSHOLES!

Ryuji: HE'S FURAX, HIDE!

Shigeo: I HEAR IT, IDIOT! THERE! THE CAR, QUICKLY GET IN, GET IN !!!!

Ryuji: I-I-I'M READY !! I'M READY !!! START! START THE CAR, QUICKLY! I'M GONNA HAVE A HEART ATTACK !!!

Shigeo: STOP CRYING!

Once in the car, Shigeo accelerated as fast as possible, until he could no longer see the cabin in the distance. Ryuji was about to cry and Shigeo was super excited.

Shigeo: Damn, that was so cool!

Ryuji: ARE YA SERIOUS?! I HAD THE FEAR OF MY LIFE BECAUSE OF YA! WE ALMOST GOT KILLED!

Shigeo: Calm down, he wouldn't have done anything!

Ryuji: YA KNOW NOTHING!

Shigeo: Did you expect him to look like that, the owner ?!

Ryuji: N-Nah I didn't see very well. Only that it was a man ... I would have preferred him to be a pretty girl!

Shigeo: Dude ... that would have been impossible given the decor.

Ryuji: Anyway, if you're going to do something like that again, I'm not going out with ya anymore!

Shigeo: No worry. I understand that you're fragile. I love you so much, so it would be a shame if something happened to you, right, Ryuji?

Ryuji: Sh-Shut up!

Shigeo: Anyway, now we won't be able to go to this cabin anymore.

Ryuji: And so much the better !!! If it would have been a pretty girl at the limit ...

Shigeo: You're starting over ...

Ryuji: Speaking of girls, how are your girlfriends doing?

Shigeo: Oh, I got dumped.

Ryuji: By all three at the same time ?!

Shigeo: Yeah almost ...

Ryuji: Dude, who told ya to get involved with three of them at the same time, huh? It's your fault! Ya deserved it!

Shigeo: Hey! Talking like that won't help anyone!

Ryuji: But seriously, ya always do that and when it happens to ya, ya never learn the lesson! ... Y'know what they even call ya, the girls?

Shigeo: How? Wait, they even gave me a nickname?

Ryuji: Yeah, and your nickname is playboy! That's what they call ya!

Shigeo: Playboy? Why such a crappy nickname? I'm not against that they're giving me importance, but at least make an effort... Anyway, I don't care, they still go out with me, stupid nickname or not stupid nickname.

Ryuji: But ... Hide, I told ya that ya were too sure of yourself! Ya only rely on your money as if the rest is not important. Do ya think ya don't hurt them every time? I tell ya often, but ya start to change and take the big head. Even if it does not come from today.

Shigeo: Stop it, you're pissing me off with this. You don't know what's good or bad for me. Since when do guys get dumped when they have money? It's not bitches who will sully my reputation. Girls are everywhere, I can get them just by snapping my fingers!

Ryuji: You're doing it again! Damn, ya never want to listen to me ... seriously, don't become a hateful guy. Do ya never listen to yourself talk sometimes? Rich guys are everywhere too, you're not the richest man in the world, man.

Shigeo: Look, they all love me. When they go out with me, they stick to me everywhere, follow me day after day, and are ready to do whatever I want. I'm their idol and even their god, you understand?

Ryuji: Ya didn't even listen to me ...

Shigeo: Want to go to the usual bar?

Ryuji: Nah, go alone, I'm going home. I have to be home 10 minutes before my parents, to make them think I went to high school. I mean, if the school hasn't notified them of my absence. Ya should go home too!

Shigeo: Pfff, you talk. I'm free. My parents never ask me what I'm doing anyway.

Ryuji: ...

Shigeo: What? Go home already, I'm going, bye.

Ryuji: Bye ... and thanks for taking me home.

Shigeo: Well, normal, bye.

He turns around with the car and walked over to the bar.

At the bar.

Shigeo used to go to this bar. It was a nice little bar in the city where there were almost only regulars. He and Ryuji went there very often to spend their time. It was good to chat, hang out, drink alcohol or even coke, but also to come and do their homework. But that was pretty rare, as the two hardly ever did their homework. They knew pretty much everyone and had their little habits in this bar. The decor was very nice and there was a good atmosphere that made you want to stay there all evening. The walls were made of black bricks and on one of the walls, there was a line of bright lights that gave a little more light throughout the bar. The floor was a hardwood floor that creaked a bit with every step. Shigeo entered and went to sit at the bar, but was directly intrigued by the bartender standing at the counter behind the bar, as his face was unknown to him. It was the first time he had seen him, so it was not the one he was used to seeing.

Shigeo: Oh...You're new you... I've never seen you before.

Bartender: Yeah, I'm new. You are a regular, to what I see.

Shigeo: Yeah ... you can say that. You just arrived?

Bartender*smiles*: You mean in this bar?

Shigeo: Uh, yeah ...

Bartender: Yes, I started yesterday. It was a good friend of mine who offered me this job.

Offered this job? ...He has long hair. Besides, yesterday I wasn't there.

Bartender: And you-

Shigeo: Oh, my phone rings! Hello? Ryuji?

"I can come, finally! My parents called me, they finish later! And guess what? Apparently, the school hasn't called their work, they haven't even told me about it!"

Shigeo: Whoa, that's cool! So, are you coming right away?

"Yes, yes, I'm already on my way! Did ya order something?"

Shigeo: Nah, I haven't ordered anything yet. I'm going to wait for you.

"Okay, so I'm coming!"

Shigeo: Ok, hurry up!

Bartender: Should I serve you something?

Shigeo: ... Nah, I'm waiting for someone.

Bartender: Very good.

Shigeo: By the way, you heard my conversation, right? So, why are you pretending it's nothing if you've heard?

Bartender *smiling*: Yes, that's right.

Shigeo: It's always like that. Why do bartenders always listen to the lives of their customers?

Bartender: Well, most of the time people like to confide in us. Whether it's their heartache, their sadness, their anger, or whatever, they know they won't be judged. Sometimes, they tell us about their lives by themselves, without us asking them anything. Besides, it always feels good to confide in general, right?

Shigeo: Pff ... I don't know. All I know is that I won't confide in you! You don't seem reliable!

Bartender *mocking*: Really? Are you already prejudiced without even bothering to know the person?

Shigeo: Well, yeah! Why would I want to know you? I don't even know you!

Bartender: Getting acquainted allows-

Shigeo: Yoooo, Ryuji, I'm here!

Bartender: He's been cutting me twice ...

Ryuji: Oh, heyyy! Ya sure ya waited for me, huh? The blond asked, sitting down on a stool at the bar, next to Shigeo.

Shigeo: Yeah, look, I haven't taken anything yet.

Ryuji: Hi, an- oh, are you new?

Bartender: Yes, I-

Shigeo: Yeah, he's new, but who cares! A coke, for me!

Bartender *smiling*: ... And you?

Ryuji *sigh*: Uh, a coke too, please.

Bartender: I'll prepare this for you!

Shigeo: Why are you doing the polish?

Ryuji: And you, why are ya playing the arrogant all of a sudden?

Shigeo: Because-

Bartender: There you go, your cokes!

Ryuji: Whoa, A-already?

Shigeo: ...

Bartender *smiling*: Well, they're just cokes, nothing could be simpler.

Shigeo: Yeah, nothing complicated. You're in luck, we make your job easier!

Bartender *smiling*: Haha ... haha.

Ryuji: And ... are you enjoying it here? I mean, as a bartender and all that?

Bartender: Yeah, that's really good, especially in a beautiful bar like this.

Ryuji: How's it getting started with clients? Isn't it too difficult to make conversation?

"What's his problem? What do we have to care about him? He's just there to serve us..."

Bartender: Oh, you know, I've been a bartender before, it's not my first time. It's just my first time at this bar, and bars aren't all the same, so I'm trying to adjust, that's all.

Ryuji: Oooh, okay! So, you already have experience!

Shigeo: Yeah, well, what experience? Being a bartender is easy! You just serve cocktails, listen to people talk, and get paid to be behind the bar!

Bartender: To hear that from a young person like you is not at all surprising.

Shigeo: What do you mean ?!

Bartender: It's true that you learn to make great cocktails and that you get paid to be behind the bar. But do you think it's that easy?

Shigeo *annoyed*: Anyone can do that, as I said!

Ryuji: Do we think it's that easy? Damn, I don't see the trap in this question ...

Bartender *sigh*: Apparently that's what people see, and little teens like you think.

Shigeo: Stop looking down on us and explain!

Bartender *sigh*: Most of the time, we are dealing with drunks, fights that arise for nothing, the glasses are overturned, and you have to pick them up and clean up behind them. Not to mention how rude the clientele can be at times. Like today, by the way. Finished the brown looking at Shigeo straight in the eyes with a teasing little smile.

Shigeo: Hm? W-Why are you looking at me like that ?!

Bartender *mocking smile*: We often get called with snaps of fingers too. Didn't you have the idea to do it? He asked, still looking at Shigeo.

Ryuji: Whoa, that's right!

Shigeo: I-I'm not bad polite, idiot!

Ryuji: H-Hide! Ya prove the contrary, there ...

Bartender *laughs*: And ... you know that being a bartender doesn't mean being the bar manager?

Shigeo: I know it!

Ryuji: Uh ... m-me too!

Bartender: People very quickly forget that and think that you can therefore sell without a loss. Glad you guys know, then.

Ryuji: Have you ever had people hiding when paying?

Bartender: Of course. Except that it never makes me laugh.

Shigeo: I'd like to try and see.

Bartender *smile*: You can always try. I would do the same when it comes time to give you the change.

Shigeo: Pff, you can keep your change!

Bartender: Well, all this to tell you that it's not easy every day. And again, I haven't told you everything. Especially on the kind of clients we sometimes have. So, no, being a bartender is not as easy as you might think.

Ryuji: After all that, it's true that it doesn't sound easy and rather boring.

Shigeo: ... If you think about it, all jobs are like that. I mean, you're not the only one struggling! So there is no point in complaining!

Ryuji: Nah but shut up, Hide.

Bartender*smiles*: Yes, that's right. Sorry. You absolutely want to have the last word, so I'll leave it to you.

Ryuji: Whoa, so cool! Finally, someone who stands up to him, take this!

Shigeo: What's your problem? And stop smiling like that, it's fucking creepy!

Bartender *smiles*: I'm not doing it on purpose, you make me laugh, that's why. And- oh, good evening! What can I serve you?

He asked a customer who had just sat down at the counter.

Shigeo: Pfff, on top of that he takes me for a dumb.

Ryuji: Dude, he's an adult, don't talk to him like that.

Shigeo: So what? Because he's an adult, so I have to shut my mouth and let him treat me like an idiot ?! Are you crazy or what?!

Ryuji: He doesn't take ya for an idiot, moron. He sure finds it fun to tease an angry, arrogant teenager who attacks strangers for nothing! I would've done the same thing! It's ya who treats him badly, there ... not him. Again, he's an adult, don't forget! He's older than us, so respect him doubling.

Shigeo: And I will tell you again! Why do I have to shut my mouth because he's an adult ?! Look at his face, he only smiles strangely, it's hiding something!

Ryuji: Seriously, what did this new bartender do to ya...

Shigeo: I don't like his "I'm better than you bunch of kids" air!

Ryuji: It's just ya saying that... he looks cool and friendly.

Shigeo: Are you serious? Look at his face

Ryuji *sigh*: I don't care, lemme drink my coke.

Shigeo: Pffff.

The redhead watched the bartender pour cocktails. He could see he had technique and was secretly impressed with the speed with which he poured ingredients from one shaker to another. Ryuji was looking at him too and had stars in his eyes.

Ryuji: Whoa !! You are fast! What is this technique called? I never ask.

Bartender *smiles*: It's the throwing technique. It allows you to refresh and air the cocktail preparations without diluting them.

Ryuji: Whoa! So much class! Did ya see that, Hide!

Shigeo: ... Pfff, I hate adults !!! The redhead shouted loud enough to let the bartender hear him, then got up and walked towards the exit door.

Ryuji: H-Hey, where are ya going?

Shigeo: I'm breaking up. I'm going home!

Ryuji: Huh? But? Stay, Hide!

Shigeo: No, you stay if you want! You seem to be enjoying the show, right ?! Me, I'm going home, bye!

Ryuji: ... Huuuh ... is he jealous or what? -_-

Bartender: Is your buddy always like that?

Ryuji *sigh*: Yeah, always, nonstop, all the time!

Bartender*smiles*: He never takes a break, huh?

Ryuji: No, never. He's annoying at times. But, he has a sensitive side anyway! Shocking, right?

Bartender: Haha. it's indeed surprising. You don't think about that at all when you look at him.

Ryuji: Yeah, normal. It's always like that when people look at him at first sight. You have to dig that's all!

Bartender: Dig deeper, right?

Ryuji: Haha, that's it! That's it!

"Ryuji stays even though I'm gone. I wonder what the two of them are talking about. Besides, what's the fucking problem with this already boring bartender? He thought he looked cool with his old techniques for making his cocktails? Pff, for me, it's still easy to be a bartender! It's easy to impress people! How he makes Ryuji so easy to impress! I mean, we show him such a simple trick, and he already has stars in his eyes ?! Damn, he annoys me, stupid bartender! I'll go home and just sleep...it got me tired!"

Shigeo was really appreciated in his high school, by the students, but also by those he did not even know. A good majority of people knew who he was or knew his name. He had especially done everything so that we know his name. Teachers hardly sanction him when he skips class or falls asleep in class. He already felt like he had the world at his feet. For him, having money was having friends, respect for anyone, power, and the world in his hands. He didn't like routine, so for him, going to class every day annoys him more than anything. He had to take advantage of his life and his youth by something other than going to high school! Even if it was just to fish and sit around for hours waiting for a fish to bite the hook, it excited him a lot more than going to class.

Ryuji thought the same as him, but unlike Shigeo, he was putting a little more effort into looking like a model student. He didn't always wake up on time and arrived late most of the time but was listening in class, as surprising as it might sound. Even though he did sometimes fall asleep ... He wasn't very good in class either and didn't always understand, but he tried to take as much interest as possible. It doesn't feel like that, but sometimes Ryuji can be smart. That's why sometimes he really resented Shigeo when he forcibly took him to skip class with him so as not to find himself alone. Ryuji mostly wanted to be a good student out of respect for his parents, not really for him. He found it unfair that his parents were paying so much money for his future if he himself didn't make an effort. The parents of the blond take very care of him and give him a lot of love. They only want the best for him, which is also why they had chosen this very famous high school.

It was a bit the opposite of Shigeo's father and mother in law. His father and mother in low didn't pay him as much attention as his best friend's. They were never asking him where he was when he was going out or were not particularly interested in his personal life or that sort of thing. Shigeo always said it was because his father had a big business, and he didn't have time for him then, but he knew deep down it was just because he never asked him any questions. He hardly ever spoke of his mother in law because he didn't really care. He always told himself that fortunately he still had his mother, even if it was hard not to see her every day and only a few days a month.

In high school.

Ryuji: Hide, I told ya we had a test last night! And ya decide to choose that evening to call me all night!

Shigeo: Sorry, I completely forgot. And, if that would have really bothered you, you should have hung up.

Ryuji *pissed off and blushed*: I ... argh you're pissing me off!

Shigeo: Hahaha! Don't worry, we'll catch up next time!

Ryuji: Ya always say that! It's always like that with ya!

Shigeo: Sorry, okay?

They were walking down the hall when a girl walked past and stopped to kiss Shigeo.

Ryuji *shocked*: Uh ...

Kimizu: I miss you during class! I'm so sick of it if you only knew!

Shigeo: I know, it's the same for me. At the end of class, you can come in my car if you want. You absolutely have to know how much I miss you.

Ryuji *disgust*: ...

Kimizu: Haha, I know very well what you mean. So, see you!

Shigeo: Hi.

Ryuji: You're serious man ... I feel like you go out with a new girl every week.

Shigeo: No! I know I'm an important person, but I won't go that far!

Ryuji: You're not an important person at all ... you're just a fucking rich 18-year-old high school student with a lot of money.

Shigeo: Whoa, are you mad or what?

Ryuji: Leave me alone. You're annoying me.

Shigeo: It was a joke, you know. In truth, it's just that she was there to comfort me when I was having my heartache love when the other girl ... she dumped me, and then it was done, that's all.

Ryuji: Heartache love? Ya never had heartache!

Shigeo: E-eh, everything needs a first!

Ryuji: Ya don't even look sad anyway ... And since when the day after a heartache love we go out with a new girl ...

Shigeo: What did you say ??? Uh ... you're pulling a spell on me or what... you're creepy.

Ryuji: Shut up, Hide. Don't make me laugh when I look so serious.

Shigeo: Haha, hey Ryuji!

Ryuji: What?

Shigeo: On another planet in the afterlife, I'm sure you are worshiped!

Ryuji: ... Uh, what do you mean by worship? Like, are they pissed off? They hate me your guys from the afterlife ?!

Shigeo: Dude ... aaah, never mind, my joke didn't even work anyway.

Ryuji: Hm ?? Let's hurry, the class will start!

After high school.

The best friends separated, and Shigeo had almost forgotten his date with his girlfriend when he saw her sitting on a bench, waiting for him. He sighed for a moment, as if he didn't want to see her, then motioned to her. They kissed, then walked towards the car. Shigeo was the type to date several girls, at the same time. Sometimes he was satisfied with one girlfriend, and sometimes with several. As soon as he was getting dumped, he immediately had a new girlfriend. That's why every time he was getting dumped, he was called a playboy. Despite all the girlfriends he dated, he had never fallen in love.

Shigeo: Hey, how about we go to the bar?

Kimizu: Uh ... yeah, okay ...?

Shigeo: Let's go, get in.

Kimizu: ... I thought you wanted to hug me?

Shigeo: Well, I changed my mind. Next time?

Kimizu: Mh ...

Shigeo: Are you sulking?

Kimizu: No, no. The bar isn't really my thing.

Shigeo: You agreed two seconds ago.

Kimizu: Yeah, but I don't drink alcohol.

Shigeo: There're also drinks other than alcohol there, you'll see.

Kimizu: What if there aren't others?

Shigeo: I know this bar by heart! Besides, bars don't just serve alcohol! How would those who don't like it do, huh?!

Kimizu: Ok, ok, alright! I trust you...

"Damn... are you stupid or what? Seriously..."

Once there, Shigeo and his girlfriend went directly to sit at a table. Kaito was a waiter who knew Shigeo and Ryuji well as their habits. He was also the boss. It didn't feel like that because he was young, but he really had experience. This bar, belonging to his father, had named him boss and wasn't disappointed. Kaito had also stopped his studies to devote himself entirely to the bar.

Kaito: Hi, Shi! Oh, you're with a lady today!

Shigeo: Uh ... y-yeah, she's with me.

Kimizu: Hello!

Kaito: H-Hi!

Shigeo: Uh, can you serve her a coke, please?

Kaito: Of course, and for you?

Shigeo: Uhm ... I'm not sure, the same thing?

Kaito: Okay!

Shigeo: We're going to the table over there.

Kaito: Don't worry, I will see your beautiful red hair light up!

Shigeo: Pffhaha.

Kimizu: You seem to get along well.

Shigeo: Yeah, he's super nice, I like him.

Kimizu: Do you come here often?

Shigeo: Yeah. We go there often with Ryuji.

Kimizu: You shouldn't be drinking so much alcohol, you know?

Shigeo: What? I don't always drink alcohol! Do you think when I come here it's just to drink? I'm not an alcoholic!

Kimizu: Ah, sorry, I thought you mainly came to drink! I imagined you spending your money on beer tours, haha.

Shigeo: I spend my money on things other than beer ...

Kimizu: Oh yeah? Like what? Tell me rich stuff, I don't know anything about it.

Shigeo *sigh*: In your opinion? Big cars, nice watches, nice clothes, shoes, besides, I have to buy myself a new pair of sneakers!

Kimizu: Why? This one is still new!

Shigeo: So what? New is not the question! I have to buy a new pair! And then, a new car too. I mean, a fast car.

Kimizu: Mmh, you're exaggerating. So it's like that when you're rich? Do we have so much money that we always spend lavishly? And above all, buy without ever stopping?

Shigeo: Forget it, you can't understand. If one day you become like me, maybe you will understand.

Kimizu: Hm ...

Kaito: Here are your cokes! Well, good coke!

Shigeo: Thanks, Kai.

Kimizu: Thank you very much!

Shigeo: So, you still don't like this bar?

Kimizu: It's not that I don't like it, it's just that bars are not my thing. I wish you took me somewhere more romantic.

Shigeo: Except that it's not a romantic date right now ... at first we just had to have sex in my car.

Kimizu: Yes, correct. But who changed their mind by bringing me here?

Shigeo *sigh*: Shit, it's me. So, are you having a bad time here?

Kimizu: No, it's okay anyway, don't worry.

Shigeo: If you want, I can buy you something after?

Kimizu: Oh, yeah that would be cool!

Shigeo: Oh wait, I got a call. It's Ryuji. Hello?

Kimizu *drinks her coke*

Shigeo: Seriously? You're at the bar? I'm there too! Where are you?

He turned and saw the blond at the entrance of the bar.

Ryuji: Oh, there you are! As if by chance, we are at the bar at the same time, without having made an appointment with each other! He said as he sat down at their table.

Shigeo: Yeah!

Ryuji: Oh! Were you on a date or something...?

Shigeo: Uhm-

Kimizu: No, it's okay, don't worry, I was just going home. Bye and see you, Shigeo.

Shigeo: B-bye ...

He watched the young girl go away, without turning around. Shigeo was surprised but didn't try to catch up with her. He told himself that he was better with his best friend, all alone than with her who didn't seem to be having a good time.

Ryuji: S-sorry...?

Shigeo: It's okay, it's not your fault. She didn't seem to like it, anyway. Are you ordering something?

Ryuji: Yeah, I'm very thirsty.

Shigeo: Me too, by the way, I have already finished my coke.

Ryuji: What are ya going to order?

Shigeo: Uh ... I'm thinking of lemonade, and you?

Ryuji: Oh yeah, a lemonade! Hm, an orange juice! Shall we sit down at the bar? It's classier!

Shigeo: What do you mean, classier? -_-

They got up at the same time, sat down at the bar, but no one was behind the counter. Which immediately pissed off Shigeo.

Shigeo: Where is Kaito?

Ryuji: I dunno. Isn't there the new bartender?

Shigeo: I hope not! I haven't seen him and it's super cool!

Ryuji: Oh, he's over there, he's chatting with a client, look!

Shigeo: What, he's here ?! He's serious? Does he think he works chatting with his clients or what? We're thirsty!

Ryuji: It's okay, calm down, Hide! Why are ya suddenly getting aggressive! We can wait, we're in no hurry. Besides, it's not a crime to put your customers at ease.

Shigeo: At ease? He only discusses and does nothing! It has nothing to do! It annoys me because it's his job! Kaito serve us straight away, him!

Ryuji: Hey, you're annoying. Kaito is busy on his side too! Me, I don't care about waiting. And, don't forget that he's new, he may be lacking in experience.

Shigeo: I don't give a ****. Hey! Hey! We're thirsty!

Ryuji: What are ya doing, moron! Are ya mega serious?! Who do ya think ya are to call him like that ?!

Shigeo: Still, it worked. Look, he's coming!

Ryuji: Huh?

Bartender: Sorry for the wait, gentlemen. Shall I serve you? Oh, I recognize you! Especially you, always so aggressive. ^^

Shigeo *pissed off*: D-do you take our orders, yes or no ?! Lemonade and orange juice!

Ryuji: Uh, p-please ...

Bartender: Very good!

Shigeo *annoyed*: Hey, serious! You are truly incompetent! Let your customers wait, while you chat! Seriously!

Ryuji: Damn it, but shut up, Hide! H-He's kidding! He's pissed off today ...

Bartender *smiles*: Don't worry, I'm used to teenagers like him. It was lemonade for whom, for you?

Shigeo: What? And why are you familiar with us now, huh? We're not your friends!

Ryuji: T-that's it, it's for him, thank you and by-

Shigeo: Where are you going? We stay at the bar, we don't take a table! Don't you mind his way of looking down on us ?! Why is he familiar with us all of a sudden?!

Barman *mockingly*: I don't look anyone down. At first, I'm always super polite with my clients, but once we get to know each other, I get familiar with them. Does it bother you?

Ryuji: Nah, not at all it's coo-

Shigeo: Of course it does! I mean, who gets to know who, first? We don't want to get to know you! We didn't ask for anything!

Bartender: You don't have to be formal with me too if you want. Okay, I have other clients, so I'll get back to you if you need anything else.

Shigeo: I want something else!

Ryuji: Huh?

Bartender: ... I'm listening. ^^

Shigeo: ... I-I want another lemonade! No, not just a second, a fifth, I'm extremely thirsty!

Ryuji: What the **** ...

Bartender *smiling*: Isn't that a bit too much for a small stomach?

Shigeo: I-I am thirsty! So, come on, I'm waiting!

Bartender *annoyed *: Okay, I think this has gone on long enough, right? I'll leave you, I have other more interesting clients.

Shigeo: I-Interesting? That's it, yeah! Seriously, what's he doing in this bar!

Ryuji: Ya fucking stupid. Why did ya talk to him so badly!

Shigeo: Because he disrespected us by ignoring us! Haven't you seen anything or what?

Ryuji: But damn, something's wrong with ya, sometimes, Hide!

Shigeo: And you bother me to be too nice.

He stood up, then silently left the bar. The blond was used to seeing him in this state, so, he did not try to catch up with him. He tells himself he'll text him later that night, and everything will be as before. The two friends were used to arguing over old stories like that, or even when they just didn't agree with each other. But, their relationship was so deep that they always reconciled on the very second. But this time, the redhead was really gone pissed off. Ryuji was drinking his orange juice alone while being on his phone, and meanwhile, Shigeo had gone for a walk to the beach a little further from the bar, before returning home.

The next day he wanted to go back to the bar after class, rather than go home, but at the last moment, he changed his mind. He thought back to what happened yesterday and told himself he didn't want to see this new bartender's face. So, instead of going to the bar, he started walking on the beach again. It was already a little dark, and the weather was not very nice that night. There was a cool, but pleasant wind. The redhead stopped walking to finally sit down for a bit on the sand, facing the sea. He thought for a moment, and after remembering Ryuji's sad face for having ignored him almost all day long in high school, he made up his mind and called him, but he did not answer. So, he left him a long message of apology. He had just sent the message to his best friend, that he felt a presence coming towards him. And he wasn't disappointed.

Bartender: Oh, the aggressive teenager from yesterday!

Shigeo: ... S-seriously ...? What are you doing here?

Bartender *Mocking*: What, it's a public beach, right? And why are you familiar with me now?

Shigeo: ... It's just less boring, so I'm familiar with you, what's the problem.

Bartender *sits next to him*: I don't mind it.

Shigeo: Why are you sitting next to me ?! The beach is big!

Bartender: What, are you still upset?

Shigeo: Obviously!

Bartender: Aaah, you look really funny, you know.

Shigeo: What does that mean ?!

Bartender: Hahaha, nothing!

Shigeo *sulks*

A silence had put between the two men. Shigeo was stroking the sand between his fingers and the bartender was looking out to sea when he turned his head to the teen and made up his mind to speak.

Bartender: So, are you a student? The man asked, his hair blowing in the wind and a few strands of hair that came to hide his sight.

Shigeo looked at him for a moment without saying anything, then turned his head and looked down to resume stroking the sand and drawing shapes.

Shigeo: ... Yeah.

Bartender: Where?

Shigeo: Why would you need to know that?

Bartender *sigh*: Are you always that talkative or do you choose who you want to talk to?

Shigeo: ... I choose, obviously. Who do you take me for?

Bartender: So, I'm the problem. Not very nice, huh?

Shigeo: ... Did you come to have an apology?

Bartender: No, not at all.

Shigeo: So why aren't you at the bar?

Bartender: I'm off today. And you saw the weather, as if by chance! I like this beach, it's nice, and it's right next to the bar. And there's rarely anyone. So no, I didn't come for an apology.

Shigeo: ... That's good, I wasn't going to apologize anyway.

Bartender *smiling*: ... I didn't expect to see you there though. Aren't you with your friend?

Shigeo: No.

Bartender: He looks cool as a friend.

Shigeo: ... He's my best friend and the first real mate I had.

Bartender: Oh, I see. You can tell he likes you a lot.

Shigeo: ...

Bartender: ...

Shigeo: ... ...What's your name?

Bartender *smiling*: I don't give my name to aggressive teens.

Shigeo *sulks*: ... I don't care. It's not like I'm interested in it!

Bartender: Haha. And yours?

Shigeo: Do ​​you think I'll give it to you if you don't want to tell me yours?

Bartender: Ah, oops.

Shigeo: ... What were you doing before becoming a bartender?

Bartender *smiling*: I don't know.

Shigeo: Why don't you want to say anything ?! Are you a wanted criminal or what ?!

Bartender: Haha, you got some good jokes! It's just that, I doubt you are interested in the life of an old man.

Shigeo: ... Yeah, that's true. But, you could respond when someone tries to get to know you.

Bartender *Mocking*: Oh, you want to make acquaintance now?

Shigeo *realizes*: N ... N-no ...!

Bartender: Haha. We'll make acquaintance later, I have to go.

Shigeo: But I don't want to make acquaintance, me.

Bartender: As you want, haha. Bye!

Shigeo: ...

He watched the brown go, then got up in his turn to go home. When he got home, his father was watching TV and his mother was cooking. He went up to his room without saying a word, then threw himself on his bed. He rolled onto his back, stared at the ceiling, then pulled out his phone to call Ryuji. And this time, the blond picked up.

"Hello?"

Shigeo: Uh ... it's Shi.

"Yes, I saw it was ya. What do ya want?"

Shigeo: Haven't you seen my message?

"I did, I did ... but I wanted to hear ya apologize on the phone too so I purposely didn't answer ya."

Shigeo: Are you serious! As if it wasn't embarrassing enough like that!

"Bahahaha! It must be said that it's so funny when ya apologize. Now, ya are less clever!"

Shigeo *sigh*: Seriously ...

"So, I'm waiting!"

Shigeo: Okay, okay! S...s-sorry!

"Haha, that's cute! I accept your apologies! But, ya were really boring!"

Shigeo: Yeah, shut up. Besides, I saw him today before returning home, as if by chance!

"Seriously ?! Did ya go to the bar the next day despite what had happened the day before?"

Shigeo: No, not at all! I was at the beach next to the bar thinking about yo- well, I was sitting calmly, and there he had come to sit next to me!

"Huuuuuuh ?! He saw you through the bar or what!"

Shigeo: Haha, nah, he was on leave today, that's what he told me.

"Whoaaaa, as if by chance! And, did ya apologize, at least?"

Shigeo: Well no, why would I do it ...

"Dude, you're a real asshole. He's an adult, you owe him respect!"

Shigeo: He's just a stranger! Just because he's an adult doesn't mean I have to lick his feet!

"Who's talking about licking- argh, never mind. What did ya talk about with him?"

Shigeo: Nothing special. He wasn't interesting.

"Ya say that, but I'm sure it's because you weren't trying to talk with- WHAT ??? AH, I'M COMING! Sorry, I have to go! See ya!"

Shigeo: Ok ... see you later.

"Shigeo, dinner!"

Shigeo: I'm coming ...

The redhead went downstairs and sat down at the table. His mother in law had cooked spaghetti bolognese and a salad. Shigeo wasn't a big fan of his mother in law's cooking compared to his biological mother, who cooked very well. Akega mostly bought frozen food that she tried to revisit in her own sauce, but the taste was always frozen food. Shigeo liked frozen food sometimes, except that it was at every meal. But there, almost as rare as it may seem, she had made a homemade sauce. Shigeo figured it wasn't difficult to make tomato sauce at the same time.

Akega: Do you like it, Shigeo?

Shigeo: Yeah, it's okay.

Father: It's perfect, my dear.

Akega: Good if you like it!

Shigeo: Since yesterday, there's been a new bartender at the bar.

Father: Really?

Shigeo: Yeah. But, he is rather incompetent.

Akega: Really?

Father: Today I was dealing with an asshole in the company.

Akega: Why are you saying that? What has happened?

Father: He was trying to be right about everything! While he was only being at fault!

Shigeo: ...

Akega: Haha, my poor love. You work so hard.

Shigeo: I'm going to bed.

Father: Oh, okay, good night.

Akega: Good night. And what happened to this guy in the end?

He cleared his plate and went to throw himself on his bed without bothering to put on his pajamas and fell asleep. But, he didn't care because it was the weekend, so he allowed himself to be lazy.

The next day, he woke up still a little in the vapes and went to the shower to wake up better. His dad and Akega were working, so he was home alone today. He thought about inviting Ryuji, but he remembered that he was going to the zoo with his family. Shigeo was thinking about what he could do today. Maybe go out with his girlfriend? Then he finally thought it was a bad idea because she was going to want to spend her time shopping. He decided to play some video games and then watched manga for a few hours. But the urge to go out and do something came back to him. He then decided to go to the bar, alone.

He took his prettiest car and drove to the bar. It was hot and very sunny today. Shigeo liked the sun, but there were limits to good weather, according to him. He didn't like it when it was sunny for too long or when the heat lasted without having a drop of rain. He loved bad weather and especially rain, that's why he didn't like when the good weather lasted. He still liked it when the weather was nice and had a great admiration for the ocean blue sky and snow-white clouds, but preferred the gray sky, the dark weather, the smell of rain just like the noises of raindrops. Ryuji was also a fan of bad weather and especially rain, like Shigeo. Ryuji's favorite season is winter. He always says he could watch the snow for hours without ever stopping. The snow ... all that brilliant white so pleasant but so cold to the touch, fascinated him.

Shigeo had finally arrived. He parked his car, got out, and walked straight inside.

He sat down at the counter, next to him there was already a drunk customer who was half asleep, his head between his arms on the counter. He looked at him for a moment with pity, then turned his eyes to Kaito who was talking to him.

Kaito *sigh*: See? Already a drunk.

Shigeo: Yeah, how they're doing in the middle of the afternoon ...

Kaito: It happened to you before, stop talking like an innocent!

Shigeo: I-It's not the same! Me, it's me!

Kaito *sigh*: Ah, you're a special case, Shigeo ... you want something to drink?

Shigeo: An ultraaaaa fresh orange juice, please!

Kaito: Okay! It's sooo hot today!

Shigeo: It's so boring a shitty weather like that.

Kaito: It's not shitty weather, don't abuse! But it's indeed boring this heat.

Shigeo: Aaaaaah, give us rain, please!

Kaito: Here, your fresh orange juice. For a while, you're at least going to feel cool inside with every sip.

Shigeo: Yeah, thank you! Ouwhoa! It feels so good!

Kaito: Right ?!

Shigeo: How is your father? It's been a long time since he's not coming to the bar.

Kaito: Hm, he's okay. He just feels tired, he's starting to get really old, you know. But, sometimes he comes into the bar. Even if it's not as much as he used to be. He comes mostly to see how it goes, but he trusts me completely.

Shigeo: Oooh, okay. Indeed, it doesn't look as easy as it used to be for him.

Kaito: Especially when it comes to walking, yeah.

Shigeo: Yeah, I understand. ... By the way ... he's not here your new bartender?

Kaito: Uh, he's at his break time, I think.

Shigeo: And ... where is he?

Kaito: I don't know, isn't he smoking at the entrance of the bar?

"At the entrance of the bar? But there was no one at the entrance when I arrived."

Shigeo: ... Okay, I have to go. Bye, Kaito.

Kaito: Huh, already?

Shigeo: Y-Yeah, I have to go.

Kaito: Okay ... well see you next time, Shi!

He put his change on the bar and got up to go out and look at the entrance of the bar. But, the moment he turned around he was being pushed around by the person he wanted to see.

Shigeo: Ouch! Hey, asshole! Pay att-

Bartender: Oops, sorry.

Shigeo: O-Oh ...

Shigeo watched him go and sit at the bar counter for a moment, rather hesitantly before deciding to go back and sit down.

Kaito: Oh, have you finished your break? Well, I'll take mine then. By the way, he was looking for you. Kaito said showing him Shigeo with his eyes.

Bartender: Hm? ... He was looking for me?

Kaito: Oh... weren't you supposed to leave, Shi?

Shigeo: Uh, I-I can stay a little longer.

Kaito: Oh, that's cool! I'm going to my break, bye-bye if I don't see you leaving.

Shigeo: Bye.

Bartender: So, apparently you were looking for me?

Shigeo: W-what?! Why would I want to see you, huh?!

Bartender*sigh*: Kaito told me that. What do you want from me?

Shigeo: ... ...Why are you talking so coldly to your clients? I mean, is it just with me? I know we're not friends ... but you could respect me anyway.

Bartender: Oh, but I respect you, unlike you. Sorry, if my voice scared you. And, aren't you in a bad position to tell me that?

Shigeo: N-not at all!

Bartender: Just kidding. Shall I serve something to sir?

Shigeo: ... Just give me a coke with lots of ice cubes.

Bartender: Ah, young people today are all rude, or what?

Shigeo: What do you mean?

Bartender: And the "please"?

Shigeo: Hey, I'm not a kid!

Bartender: Saying the magic word isn't just for kids.

Shigeo*angry and embarrassed*: ... P-please ...

Bartender *smiling*: There you go! I'll bring this to you right away, sir!

""Sir...?" What's his problem ... plus he talks to me like I'm a fucking kid! He's pissing me off!"

Shigeo was watching him brew his coke, silently, hesitating to start a conversation, but finally talked.

Shigeo: ... You still don't want to tell me your name?

Bartender: How about you?

Shigeo: Why me first?! I asked you before!

Bartender: Oh, yeah?

Shigeo: ... You kidding me, right?!

Bartender*mockingly*: You see, you're still aggressive, and so loud. So, I won't give you my name.

Shigeo*pissed off*: **** you. It was the last time! After all, I don't care!

Bartender: Haha. And here's your coke, dear sir!

Shigeo: Huh? There aren't enough ice cubes! I'm hot, I want more!

Bartender: Ah la la. If I put more ice cubes in, your coke will overflow. You're not going to lick the counter if it's overflowing, are you?

Shigeo: I-I don't care if it overflows! I don't want a hot coke!

Bartender: Hot? There are five large ice cubes.

Shigeo*sigh*: ... Damn ... I don't even have the strength to be even more pissed off. I'm too hot, you're lucky, I'm going to drink your coke of incompetent anyway.

Bartender*smiles*: Thank you, that's nice! ^^

Shigeo*drinks*: ...

Bartender*sigh*: There aren't many people today ...

Shigeo: ... ...aren't you hot with your shirt on?

Bartender: ... Hm? No, it's okay. It's a little cooler here. And I can always go and change in the back if I'm too hot.

Shigeo: ... ... Me, I don't really like summer.

Bartender: Really? Why?

Shigeo: It's too hot, and we burn as soon as the sun is on us! And then, we always sweat for nothing!

Bartender *laughs*: Me, I like summer. This is where you can hear the birds singing the most and the sound of the cool wind as soon as the shade settles. And then, this heat which is deposited on our body is really pleasant. This is the best time to walk around and breathe life.

Shigeo looked at him for a moment without saying a word to what the brown had just said. He found these words beautiful and even poetic and felt almost ashamed to find his way of speaking pleasant. He said to himself for a moment that he wanted to hear more but quickly changed his mind, telling himself that adults really liked to say big sentences for no reason, probably to feel intelligent.

Bartender: What? Do you want another coke?

Shigeo: ... N-no ...

Bartender: Oh, Kaito. Are you done?

Kaito: Yes, break time's over!

Bartender: So, I'll leave the bar to you. I'll take care of the reserve. We are missing a few bottles, by the way.

Kaito: O-kay!

Bartender: See you. Said the brown winking at Shigeo, before leaving.

Kaito: Are you okay, Shigeo? You look into vapes.

Shigeo: ... I-I'm ok ... I have to go.

Kaito: Oh ... this time it's the right one?

Shigeo: Y-yeah. See you...

Kaito*big smile*: See you~!

The teenager got up, took his car, and drove home. He greeted his father who was there, omitting his mother in law because the latter had not yet returned from her work, and went up to his room. He stretched out on his bed, hugged his pillow, his gaze lost on the window glass. The vivid blue of the sky was reflected in his irises, the color of which darkened at times from the clouds that floated peacefully there. A few minutes after clearing his mind, he began to think of the bartender.

"... A guy winking at me, isn't it weird when I think about it? I have the impression that he did it on purpose to make me uncomfortable! I've only known his existence for two days, but I can't stand him already."

"This bartender ... I think it's the first time I've seen such a boring guy!"