✩Our Shining Stars!✩ [Ensemble Stars fanfic]

Bell Peppers

"Have a nice day"

The staff of the restaurant waved at us as we left. I'm particularly excited today since summer vacation has finally started. Plus, I can finally help out at the shop today.

I looked at Midori beside me. "So, is that all? Or are there more?" I asked

"That should be it. Ahh, I'm so tired" Midori yawned. He may say he's tired, but when it comes to the shop matters, he's actually very reliable. I smiled.

I wanted to grab my phone from my pocket, but I can't feel it. I started to panic. "Hm? What's wrong?" Midori looked at me awkwardly as I continuously patted my pockets. "Ah! I think I left my phone at the restaurant! Uhh, you can go first! I'll catch up!"
I dashed back without a warning.

Good thing, we weren't that far yet from the restaurant. The staff were also very kind, they kept the phone I accidentally left on their counter. I thanked the staff before exiting the restaurant with a relieved sigh.

I can't see Midori anymore. He must've gone far already. Well, I did tell him to go first. I carefully placed my phone back in my pocket when I heard an all too familiar voice behind me.

"Ha ha ha! Good morning, (L/N)!!" Chiaki's energetic voice startled me. I turned back and there he is, looking as spirited as ever. "Oh, good morning, Morisawa-senpai. What are you doing here?" I greeted back.

"Nothing much! I'm quite free today, so I'm just walking around. Who knows, maybe there's someone out here who needs my help? Ryusei Red is always ready to help! Haha!" he answered, striking his signature RYUSEITAI pose at the mention of his role.

I chuckled. "Ah, is that so? Then, have a nice day! I have to go back now to help with the shop. Bye bye, senpai!" I excused myself.

I walked back to the shop happily, but I can't help feeling a presence behind me. I turned back. And sure enough, Chiaki is following me. I shrugged. "Hmh. He might coincidentally be heading this way too" I assumed.

Takamine Groceries is only about 10 minutes away from the restaurant, and I arrived exactly at that time. Midori is waiting for me in front of the store. He was just about to wave, but then he hesitated.

"Uhh, hi, Midori. Why do you look... Pale?" I mentioned as I came closer to him. He facepalmed. "Why is he with you?"

I raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean-"

"Hahaha! Ryuusei Red is here to help his fellow, of course!" Chiaki exclaimed. I immediately turned back to see that Chiaki is indeed following me.

At that moment, Midori's parents suddenly exited the shop dressed all nicely. "Ah, you're here! I'm sorry dear, but me and your dad has some urgent matter regarding your brother to handle. Can you handle the shop today?" Mrs. Takamine told. It seems they are in a hurry.

Midori turned worried "Huh? B-but...-"

"-Don't worry, Ma'am! I'll gladly help them!" Chiaki cut him off, placing his hands on our shoulders. "Thank you so much! You're their senior, right?" Mrs Takamine smiled. Chiaki nodded.

Mr. Takamine glanced at his watch an gestured his wife to get going. "Ah! Just do as we always do everyday, ok? I left a list on the counter just in case! Take care!" she reminded before heading off with her husband.

We waved at their car until it's out of sight. Midori turned towards us. "Ok. Now it's all up to us. I've never handled the shop alone so.... *sigh*. I guess I'll have to accept your help" he sighed, targeted towards Chiaki. Chiaki beamed.

We got ready and Midori lent Chiaki his shop apron, which is a little big for him. The first few tasks are easy, just sweeping the floor and preparing the shop to open for the day.