I found you

Chapter 2

The young Tsugikuni left the restaurant using the back door. Usually, Michikatsu would use the main door but being followed by Yoriichi is the least circumstance he wanted to happen at such a desperate moment. There was a growing crowd at the entrance. The young man took that as an advantage and sneaked out, pulling out the hood of his jacket as he sped up his walk.

Even the luxurious car parked outside stood out oddly. It was enough to make bystanders notice that someone special is nearby.

Michikatsu scoffed, hurrying away by pumping strength on his legs, not risking himself one bit to be seen. The man couldn't afford to get a ride to the mall, so he simply walks. Luckily for him though, it wasn't too far. So when he arrived at the mall, specifically, at the area where staff has to take their attendance first, the meeting was just about to launch. Michikatsu was right on time.

"Cleaning and maintenance staff, let's huddle here." Their manager called out as he waved in the air to catch everyone's attention. Michikatsu immediately wore his work clothes, put away his stuff in a locker, and headed closer.

Once the group had gathered in an area, their manager didn't waste any time but to announce their daily meeting. He called out names one by one, stating their role for the day and where shall they proceed in their task. Michikatsu's name was called at some point, "You'll be assigned to clean at the Department store. Just some sweeping will do. Mopping the floor is kind of risky even though there's a warning sign we can use, but you gotta expect some kids not paying attention and ended up slipping the floor."

"At which area?" Michikatsu asked.

"The Men's clothing, Women's clothing, second floor. Then to the cosmetics next to it, and then head back to the storage room, you'd be carrying some boxes."

Sounds easy enough, but Michikatsu had to complain. Internally, of course. He certainly doesn't like to carry boxes. They can be a bit too heavy. Not only that but he's expected to carry some stuff alone himself.

"Alright," he accepted the challenge, rubbing his shoulders to prepare for the day as the manager called out another name to state their task.

The meeting was about to end after the manager finished speaking to the last member of the staff. Michikatsu was about to head out, already walking away, when the manager quickly inserted another reminder. "One last thing. This is important." The manager glanced at every man and woman in the eye, "we might expect some fancy people. So you better do your job precisely."

Michikatsu turned when he heard two words that caught his attention, eyes wide. "Fancy people?"

The manager simply shrugged at him, "Wasn't told by the higher-ups who."

Fancy... people?

"I see..." He lingered for a moment. Then he walked away, and his heart began accelerating.

To others, this is great news! His fellow workmates started whispering among each other. Probably excited to see who it was to visit the mall. However, there's only one person who seems to be in such a bad mood. Michikatsu swerved away from the thrilled people as sweat formed on his face. He furiously wiped them away, it's probably just the heat, the man mused. Even if it's him, he can't find me in such a crowd.

The man is utterly grateful he isn't tasked at the main entryway. He'd be doomed right away once he is spotted. Luckily, he'd be working deep into the mall. The department store is among the busiest areas as people purchase items from left to right to satiate their needs. Even luckier, he is also to work in the storage room filled with stocks and newly brought items from trade. So no one could get in except the staff members.