The trio had arrived in town and was on the lookout for a suitable store to purchase a yukata.
They decided to start their hunt at a vibrant flea market.
Stalls lined the narrow pathways, adorned with colorful banners fluttering in the gentle breeze. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of freshly cooked street food. Shopkeepers displayed their merchandise with pride, showcasing an array of trinkets, antiques, clothing, and various souvenirs. Colorful yukatas and traditional garments hung from racks.
Amidst the hustle and bustle, the trio diligently scanned each stall, hoping to stumble upon the perfect yukata that would suit Hideaki. However, despite their efforts, the flea market failed to offer the exact match they were seeking.
Disappointment washed over Seiji as he sighed, realizing that their quest for a yukata would need to continue elsewhere.
"I expected we'd find it quicker. Hideaki's complaining was relentless-'too tight, not my style'... He fusses more than necessary." Seiji's voice remained level, though a faint edge of irritation seeped through.
Eventually, they decided to visit a yukata boutique.
Approaching the boutique, they were immediately captivated by its unique charm. The storefront was housed in an old Japanese house, exuding an air of history and tradition. Weathered wooden beams adorned the exterior, displaying the passage of time and adding character to the building. Adjacent to it, a contemporary block of flats seamlessly merged with the old structure, a testament to the evolving landscape of Tokyo.
As Seiji opened the door, a bell chimed, signaling the arrival of customers.
A friendly elderly woman, with gray hair neatly tied up and glasses resting on her nose, greeted them. "Hello. How may I assist you?" she asked, her lips curved in a warm smile.
"Good day," Seiji greeted her with a polite nod, briefly noting the boutique's original aesthetic. Then, he pointed at Hideaki. "We need a yukata for him. As someone with extensive knowledge of these garments, I trust you can assist."
The old lady agreed and stepped out from behind the counter. She approached Hideaki and carefully examined him, muttering something under her breath. "Hmm... Yes, yes... Alright... Please, follow me," she said, motioning for them to come along.
They all followed the elderly woman as she led them further into the shop. Along the way, they noticed mannequins adorned with beautifully decorative yukatas.
Seiji grew concerned, remarking in a dry tone, "Let's hope the price reflects the quality."
Shortly after, they arrived at the dressing room area. The woman made her way to the shelf, where a collection of neatly stacked and folded yukatas awaited. Selecting a few of them, she remarked, "These will suit that boy."
"Boy!?" Hideaki felt a surge of annoyance. "Do I really look that young!?"
Seiji couldn't help but let out a small, controlled chuckle, and Akemi joined in, clearly amused. Hideaki noticed their laughter and shot them an intense glare, his anger simmering within.
The saleswoman handed Hideaki a pair of yukatas and kindly said, "You can try them on in the changing rooms. I'm sure your daddy will be pleased with how you'll look in them."
Hideaki felt his blood boiling, 'My daddy!?!? Does she think that Seiji is my dad!?!?!?!'
Seiji, sensing an opportunity, smirked. "Let's not take all day, Hideaki. I'm sure your 'daddy' will be pleased." The dry sarcasm in his voice was clear.
"Tch!!! I will kill you for this, you dick!!!"
"Ah, youth," Seiji said with mock seriousness, glancing at Hideaki with a satisfied expression, pleased by how easily he'd provoked him.
YOU ARE READING
Everyday Life with a Murderer
AksiA adult Japanese man, Seiji Sekiguchi was devastated by his life. During one rainy evening, he went to the rooftop of a building to commit suicide. Unexpectedly, on his way he meets a man, who apparently wants to kill him. Prepared for certain death...
