“Thank you very much!”
Even though I’d left the shop empty-handed, hearing that standard greeting made me feel a twinge of guilt.
As for why I’d stepped into the Convenience Store in the first place, the answer was the free Job Magazine currently gripped in my hand.
I couldn't risk Sara-san seeing it, so I planned to look through it at the Park and head home only after I was finished.
The problem was whether I could actually find a suitable job.
If it were just a matter of finding any part-time work, it wouldn't be a big deal, but this time I had several hurdles to clear.
The most critical factor was whether I could work during the specific dates Sara-san would be away on her School Trip. That was my biggest concern.
Next was the duration. It had to be a short-term position that could be limited to just one week.
Finally, on top of the age requirement of being a high school student, I had the time constraint of only being available After School. I could only apply if a job met every single one of those conditions.
I wondered if I could find a listing that fit such a narrow window so perfectly.
It would also be a huge help if the work was something a beginner could handle...
I still had plenty of time before the trip, but I’d decided to start looking early, assuming it would be a difficult search.
As for why I was looking for a job with such demanding criteria, the reason was simple.
I wanted to buy Sara-san’s Birthday Present with money I’d earned through my own hard work.
And if possible, I wanted to secure the funds for her Christmas Present as well.
That was why I wanted to work in secret, without Sara-san finding out.
Of course, I knew it would be tough to earn much in just one week.
My usual free time was limited to the hours after we finished Dinner and Sara-san went home; even if I worked every night, the daily income would be negligible.
That was exactly why I wanted to earn as much as I possibly could during the week she’d be gone for her School Trip.
Besides, it was a plan that killed two birds with one stone—it would help distract me from the loneliness of her being away.
Thinking about it was easy, but with such specific requirements, finding the right job was proving to be a monumental task.
Since I’d only just started looking, I wasn't panicking yet, but I couldn't find a single listing that fit my criteria.
I might have to keep searching with the resolve that this could go right down to the wire...
“Are you looking for work, by any chance?”
I jumped.
I’d been so absorbed in the Job Magazine that I hadn't noticed someone approaching.
But I recognized that voice.
“Todo-san.”
“Hello, Takanashi-kun. You were so focused that I wasn't sure if I should interrupt... but seeing you with a Job Magazine, does that mean you’re planning to work?”
“Ah... well.”
I hesitated.
It was Todo-san, so she probably wouldn't go around gossiping. I just needed her to keep it a secret from Sara-san.
“Yeah, I’m looking for a part-time job. But because of my specific requirements, it’s looking a bit difficult. More importantly, I’m sorry to ask this, but could you please not tell Sara-san that I’m looking for work?”
“Oh? Sure, I’ll keep it a secret. But is there a reason you’re hiding it from Satsukawa-senpai?”
I figured she’d ask that.
But if she was willing to stay quiet, I didn't mind explaining.
I told her why I wanted to work and why my conditions were so restrictive.
As I spoke, Todo-san’s eyes began to sparkle.
“I see... Satsukawa-senpai is so lucky. I’m so jealous she has someone who thinks of her that much. Regardless of what others might say, seeing you two together always makes me think you look so happy.”
As expected of Todo-san—she actually viewed our relationship in a positive light.
“If that’s the reason, I want to help too! Um, actually, my Grandfather runs a Liquor Store, and he mentioned he was looking for some extra help. If you’re interested, Takanashi-kun, should I ask him about it for you?”
“Wait, really? That would be a lifesaver! If it isn't too much trouble, I’d definitely appreciate it.”
It was a godsend. I’d much rather work somewhere with a connection than for a complete stranger.
“Sure, I’ll look into it. Also, since we're on the subject, what do you think about us all holding a Birthday Party for Satsukawa-senpai? Of course, that’s assuming everyone’s schedules match up, but I think she’d be really happy.”
I see; I hadn't thought that far ahead.
Perhaps the reason the idea of a group gathering hadn't occurred to me was because I wasn't used to those kinds of social circles, or maybe it was just a lingering habit from my past isolation.
Still, the idea of everyone celebrating together sounded great. I could always celebrate with her again when it was just the two of us...
Yeah, that sounded like fun!
“You’re right! Let’s try asking everyone. We’ve finally become close with the group, so it’s the perfect excuse to get together. I want to make it a great celebration for her, and I want Sara-san to be happy...”
“Exactly! I’m looking forward to it too. Now that that’s settled, I need to start thinking of a present for Satsukawa-senpai. Oh, but I should contact everyone first!”
I decided to send out messages as soon as I got home tonight.
Beyond that, I needed to decide on a specific gift soon, but I was still wavering. I needed to figure out a budget, too.
Actually, it might not be a bad idea to consult her right now.
“What kind of Present do you think a girl would be happy to receive from a guy?”
“Hmm, in this case, it’s for a Lover, right? Speaking for myself, I’d be happy with anything from the person I like... and I’m positive Satsukawa-senpai would be thrilled with absolutely anything from you, Takanashi-kun.”
“I think so too, but that’s exactly why it’s so hard to choose...”
If the roles were reversed and I received a gift from Sara-san, I knew I’d be happy no matter what it was.
That was why I was sure she’d appreciate anything, but I wanted to go the extra mile. I wanted to give her something that would make her even happier—something that would last as a physical memory of the day.
A simple Accessory felt a bit cliché... hmmm...
“I have a feeling Yokokawa-kun would be pretty knowledgeable about this kind of thing,” she added.
Certainly, Hayato would... wait, that’s it!
“Hey, Todo-san, would you mind coming with me to look for a present sometime soon? If the timing works out, Hayato could come along too.”
“Yeah, of course! I want to go look for a present for her anyway, so let me know once you’ve picked a day!”
Perfect. If I invited Hayato along for this...
I hoped it would provide him with a bit of romantic support.
Later that day, it was officially decided that I would help out at Todo-san’s Grandfather's Shop.
I was brought on as Fill-in Staff to cover for a regular employee who couldn't work for a while.
The shifts were short and in the evening, focusing on preparing deliveries for the next day and tidying up. Since it wasn't overly complicated, it was exactly what I was looking for.
“Welcome home, Kazunari-san.”
Because I was a bit late, Sara-san was already at the house, just as I’d expected.
“I’m home, Sara-san. Sorry for the delay.”
“No, it’s quite alright. Dinner will still be a little while. ...By the way, did something good happen?”
Sara-san asked me with a soft smile.
She was sharp as always... or maybe I was just that transparent.
“Not exactly. It’s just that, regarding Hayato and Todo-san, it looks like I might be able to help out a bit. I’ve never really had the chance to do something for friends like this before... even if it is just sticking my nose where it might not belong.”
That was only half the truth, but I was genuinely happy. It felt good to realize that I finally had friends I cared about that much.
As if sensing my joy, Sara-san smiled happily and pulled me into a slow embrace.
“There is no such thing as 'meddling' when it comes to you. I know how much you value your friends, Kazunari-san, and I love that side of you.”
“Yeah... thank you.”
“Fufu... it would be wonderful if Yokokawa-san and Todo-san could become a couple like us.”
Hearing Sara-san say that from the bottom of her heart made me even happier.
In the past, she had only maintained superficial, polite relationships with anyone besides me or Natsumi-senpai.
She used to say it was to avoid causing me trouble, but I felt certain that now, she truly considered those two as her friends.
Thinking that the kind, original version of Sara-san was finally returning brought a smile to my face.
“Even if those two become lovers, they’ll never be a match for us.”
“Of course not. My devotion to you is absolute, after all.”
Sara-san spoke with a rare, playful air.
I decided to play along.
“Which must mean I’m the luckiest man alive.”
“Yes. And I will certainly make you happy, Kazunari-san. I love you...”
Held in Sara-san’s arms, I made a silent, firm vow: I would make her upcoming birthday one where she felt truly, undeniably happy.