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─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
popsicle.there are many who say that being an only child can be a lonely experience. without siblings, the days stretch out like an endless expanse, quiet and solitary.
there's no one to share the little joys with, no one to turn to in times of sadness. each evening, the house feels emptier, the silence echoing through the rooms.
as a child, you long for a playmate, someone to build forts with, to whisper secrets under the covers after the lights go out.
you imagine a sibling as a companion, always ready for adventure or mischief. but instead, you find yourself alone, turning to imaginary friends or the pages of books, searching for the connection that's missing.
kunimi never felt the loneliness often associated with being an only child.
at eight years old, he wished for a sibling only after seeing the bond his cousin shared with his younger brother, playing basketball together.
however, his parents decided against it, concerned about the financial strain of raising two children, even with their successful ramen business.
despite this, his parents were loving and attentive, always making sure their only son never felt alone.
they devoted themselves to his happiness, filling their home with warmth and support, creating an environment where he felt cherished and understood.
growing up, kunimi never fit the stereotypes of an only child. he was grateful for his unique position. now, as the newly promoted manager of kunimi ramen, he has embraced his responsibilities.
always eager to help after school and during weekends, he balances his role at the family business with his studies, despite his parents' wishes for him to focus mainly on school.
their support has fueled his dedication, and he takes pride in contributing to their shared success.
"how's the search for a new waitress going, dad?" kunimi asked as they prepared to open the shop that morning.
his father, the chef-in-charge andalso the main boss, opened the windows to let in the fresh air. "i found someone," he replied. "she'll come in for an interview tomorrow afternoon."
the teen nodded, curious about the new potential team member. his mother had been the only waitress since they opened, but as the restaurant became more popular, she realized they needed additional help to keep up with the growing crowd.
"she's a student from your school, akira." his mother mentioned while washing dishes. the way she said it was with pure excitement.
kunimi was intrigued, wondering who it might be and how she would fit into their close-knit family business.
