Busboy Return

First night

A man is standing in front of the restroom.

He seemed about to go to bed, wearing pajamas.

"Uh... Carter, it's not a problem... Justin got into some trouble, that's all."

Carter's gaze shifted from me, who couldn't stop laughing, to Justin.

"It's quite late at night... I'll take you back to your room now."

"Um... Yes, that's what I'll do... Justin is still in a mess... You see. I can't take Justin alone right now."

Ed, looking extremely embarrassed, pointed at Justin, who was groveling on the floor again.

"Really? Then should I help?"

Even though Carter's voice remained soft, there was an aura that made the listener tense.

"No, there's no need for that... Justin will be fine if we just wait a bit. I'll take him back then."

"Alright. I understand. I'm just worried you might make another mistake like last time. It's a situation that anyone could misunderstand, right?"

Carter smiled meaningfully, alternating his gaze between Ed and me.

"I noticed that you were holding a knife earlier... People might think you were seeking revenge."

'Revenge? On me?'

The word "revenge" didn't seem to be directed solely at me, judging from Ed's expression.

"Carter! Even if it's you, making such assumptions... It's uncomfortable."

"Just tried to have a sensible conversation. I'm sorry if I made you feel bad."

There was no explanation more fitting than revenge for the unknown animosity and violence directed at me by Ed.

'There seems to be something between Mike and Ed. I should investigate it.'

"This guy holds a grudge from the past incident. Don't use Justin as bait. Coward!"

The perfectly thrown fastball enticed Ed to take a full swing.

"You crazy bastard! You can't shut your mouth!"

Ed's eyes turned into those of a beast.

I had survived the end of my past life mostly with wit, so I was skilled in the mind game aspect, but I had no physical abilities.

I didn't know how to handle a beast charging at me with its body.

Suddenly, Carter moved.

"Kek! Kek kek kek!"

As a result, Ed held his throat, kneeling beside Justin, drooling like a dog.

"Ed, as a waiter, you are superior to any busboy in this dormitory."

With red, engorged eyes and a gag reflex, Ed looked at me with tears streaming down his cheeks.

"But that's only valid during work hours and in the establishment. At this time and place, you do as I say, Ed."

Ed's neck jerked when he was hit by Carter's quick, efficient, and swift hand blade, leaving him unable to function properly for quite some time.

"Ed, Justin should be quiet now, so it shouldn't be a problem to take him back. Once he can breathe properly, go back to your dorm."

Ed approached Justin.

"By the way, I won't make a big deal out of today's incident. But if it happens again for the second time, who do you think will look kindly on you?"