The White Room Dropout - A CotE Fanfic

Part 33: Unforeseen Obstacles

"Hey Ayanokouji, what do you think about adding more decorations to the cafe?" Nakamura asked, his voice filled with excitement as he approached me amidst the bustling classroom. His friends gathered around, eagerly awaiting my response.

I glanced up from my book, observing the group with a calm and indifferent expression. "Additional decorations could enhance the ambiance," I replied, my tone even and devoid of any particular enthusiasm. "What ideas do you have in mind?"

Nakamura's eyes sparkled as he unfolded a sheet of intricately folded origami paper, proudly displaying his latest creation. "Check out these origami designs," he exclaimed, holding them up for me to see. "I think they would be a perfect fit for the cafe. What do you say?"

Examining the delicate folds and precise patterns, I nodded slightly, acknowledging Nakamura's efforts. "Origami can add a touch of authenticity," I remarked, my voice neutral. "It would contribute to creating a traditional Japanese atmosphere."

Sayuri, standing nearby with her notebook in hand, chimed in eagerly. "I've been thinking about incorporating cherry blossoms and fans as well," she added, her voice filled with anticipation. "They're classic Japanese symbols. What do you think?"

I shifted my gaze to Sayuri, briefly assessing her enthusiasm. "Cherry blossoms and fans are indeed recognizable motifs," I acknowledged, my tone calm and analytical. "They could enhance the overall aesthetic and evoke a sense of Japanese culture."

Nakamura's friends were buzzing with enthusiasm, their animated expressions contrasting with my calm demeanor. I maintained my composed stance, absorbing the ideas being exchanged within the group.

Breaking the momentary silence, one of Nakamura's friends posed a question, uncertain of how to proceed. "What if we added some music to the cafe? It could enhance the atmosphere, but how would we go about it?"

Nakamura pondered for a moment, his voice tinged with a hint of confidence. "I have a Bluetooth speaker at home. We could attach it to the walls or the ceiling of the room. That should do the trick."

Curiosity ignited within the group as they pondered the practicalities. Questions emerged, and one person suggested, "But where would we get the music from? Should we just play something from the internet?"

Nakamura interjected, a proud smile on his face. "Actually, our school has a koto club. They specialize in traditional Japanese music, and they're quite skilled. I know someone in the club, and I could ask for their recordings."

His words resonated with the group, and they responded with grateful expressions. I observed as Nakamura's friends turned to him, expressing their appreciation.

"Wow, Nakamura, that's amazing! Thanks for bringing this up," one of them exclaimed, a hint of excitement in their voice.

"Yeah, it's a brilliant idea. Having traditional music playing in the background will add a unique touch to the atmosphere," another friend chimed in, nodding in agreement.

Nakamura smiled, acknowledging their gratitude. "No problem, guys. I'm glad I could contribute to the preparations."

Nakamura's smile lingered on his face, a silent acknowledgment of his contribution. I turned my gaze to the bustling surroundings, taking in the vibrant atmosphere that enveloped the classroom. The diligent efforts of my classmates were becoming increasingly evident as the preparations unfolded seamlessly.

The air hummed with a sense of anticipation, a palpable energy that resonated through every conversation, every movement. Students scurried back and forth, arranging decorations, perfecting the smallest details, and ensuring that every aspect of the traditional Japanese cafe would transport visitors to a realm of cultural immersion.