Chapter 64: Worst Nightmare.

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Date: 21. August 2005, Sunday

The next morning, you find yourself sitting alone in the kitchen, eating breakfast. You overslept, and by the time you got up, Emma and Gramps had already finished. Mikey's still asleep, so it's just you. As you munch on your toast, your mind starts to drift. What should I do today? It's Sunday, so no school... Mikey's sleeping, and Emma's busy cleaning her room. You think, watching the kitchen window fill with soft morning light. Maybe it's the perfect chance to finally explore Shibuya.

You smile to yourself at the thought, then finish up and clean your dishes before heading back to your room. After a quick bath, you glance at your purse and check inside. Your smile fades when you see the few coins left. Right... I bought Mikey those dorayaki and that candle. I really need a job. Sighing, you tuck your purse into your bag, determined not to ask Gramps for money, and head out. Guess the train it is... since my bike's still got a flat.

An hour later, you're strolling through Shibuya, wandering aimlessly as you take in the busy streets, shop displays, and sounds of the city. Despite the chaos, you find yourself oddly calm. It feels nice to have this time alone. You think, as a faint smile hovers on your lips. The crowded streets, however, soon start to overwhelm you, so you pull out your headphones, glad for the music you have saved on your phone. Streaming isn't a thing here yet. You remember, giggling to yourself. 2005 feels like a different world.

You pass a small accessory shop, and a cat-shaped necklace catches your eye. Just as you're about to step closer, someone taps your shoulder, startling you. You turn, pulling off your headphones, and see Takemitchy smiling at you.

"Oh! Hi, Mitchy! Sorry, I didn't hear you.", you say, calming down as you recognize him. "What did you say?"

"I just asked what you're doing here alone.", he repeats, glancing at the crowds around you. "I didn't expect to see you exploring Shibuya by yourself."

You smile, feeling unexpectedly glad to see him. "Just wandering around, treating myself. Sometimes it's nice to be alone, especially with all the craziness lately." You glance away for a moment, then back at him with a softer look.

Mitchy nods, a sober expression flashing across his face. But before he can dwell on it, you chime in, "And what about you? Shouldn't you be on a date with Hina?"

He blushes slightly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, I actually wanted to surprise her with a little gift."

You grin at him. "A gift, huh? Want some help?" You raise an eyebrow, giving him a teasing smile. "I mean, I'd hate for you to end up with something... questionable."

"Hey!", he huffs, feigning offense.

"Come on, you know you're lucky to have my help!", you say, feeling a boost of confidence as you drag him along to find a present for Hina.

You lead Mitchy through various stores, trying your best to guide him, but his choices make you cringe. At one point, he picks up a neon pink shirt with 'I love sushi' printed on it in glitter, complete with a disturbing human-sushi design.

Your eyes widen. "You... really thought that was cute?"

"What? Hina would look good in anything!", he argues, crossing his arms defensively.

You sigh, struggling to stay calm. "Alright, Mitchy, first you owe me food — because I'm starving — and second, let's stick to simple accessories. Like a necklace or ring, something she can actually wear."

He sighs in defeat, nodding as he heads off to get food. He returns with bento boxes and onigiri, setting everything down on a bench. Without a second thought, you dig in, savouring each bite like it's the best meal you've had in ages.

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