The White Room Dropout - A CotE Fanfic

Part 36.5: The Cultural Festival

The vibrant ambiance of the cultural festival engulfed me as I diligently prepared the food for our Traditional Japanese café. Every step in the process held significance, and I devoted myself to perfecting each dish. The tantalizing scents wafted through the air, intermingling with the lively hum of conversations.

Amidst my focused preparations, Nakamura approached me with an air of urgency. "Ayanokouji, we've just received a new order!" he exclaimed, excitement evident in his voice.

Nakamura handed me the slip of paper, which contained the details of the order. I quickly assessed the requirements and began working meticulously to bring the dish to life.

As I was preparing the food, Nakamura stood by my side, observing the bustling activity of the café. "It's really busy today," he remarked, his voice filled with a mixture of fatigue and satisfaction. "But considering the circumstances, I'm glad we managed to complete the class decorations. I think they turned out even better than before."

I nodded in agreement, acknowledging the effort we had put into creating an inviting and festive atmosphere in the café. The decorations exuded a charm that captured the essence of the cultural festival, drawing in visitors with their vibrant colors and intricate designs.

Nakamura, with a grin on his face, chimed in, "The customers are really enjoying the food. And let's not forget the added bonus of having cute girls and hot guys serving while wearing yukatas." He glanced at himself and chuckled lightly, his lightheartedness evident.

Matsushima, who had been quietly following the conversation, playfully urged Nakamura to focus on his tasks instead of engaging in idle chatter. A teasing tone laced her words as she sarcastically remarked, "Oh, Nakamura, you must be quite the ikemen in that yukata. But let's not forget we're here to work."

Nakamura, never one to shy away from playful banter, joined in the spirited exchange with Matsushima. "Of course, Matsushima," he responded, a playful glint in his eyes. "Rest assured, my charming self shall continue to labor diligently, without any distractions."

Nakamura's playful banter with Matsushima concluded as he promptly returned to attending to the customers, his lighthearted demeanor unwavering. I watched as he seamlessly transitioned back into his role, serving with efficiency and charm.

Matsushima, sensing the lively atmosphere surrounding us, turned her attention toward me. With a smile on her face, she commented, "It's quite lively here, isn't it?"

My response was characteristically subdued as I replied in my customary apathetic tone, "I suppose so." While the bustling energy of the cultural festival permeated the air, I remained composed, observing the interactions and conversations taking place around me.

Matsushima, ever considerate, directed her attention towards me. Her voice carried a genuine concern as she suggested, "Ayanokouji, you've been working since morning. It might be a good idea for you to take a break."

I regarded Matsushima with my usual impassive gaze, briefly contemplating her words before responding. "Are you sure? The cafe's quite busy," I replied, my tone remaining subdued. "You may struggle to keep up with the influx of orders if I take a break now."

Unfazed by my response, Matsushima reassured me with a playful smile, "Don't worry, we've got it covered. You should go and have some fun with your girlfriend or something. It's a cultural festival, after all."

I acknowledged her persistence with my customary apathetic demeanor. "I'll take you up on your offer, then" I replied, my tone devoid of any notable emotion. And with that, I turned and left the cooking station.

...