Next Gen. (The rivalry continues)

𝐱

- Nagisa -

It was a rainy Saturday morning, an unusual start of my day. I'm the type to go with the mood of the weather and so today is a gloomy start. I've always hated the rain and how it gets everything wet. From the muddy ground that puts dirt on my shoes to the musty smell of the air. Though I must say the weather is perfect for staying in and relaxing in the comfort of your home. 

As much as I'd love to do that right now, I have just recently completed my whole collection of mangas. I can fill the void and emptiness in my heart, it feels totally different from when you've just finished one manga. I had no idea what to do anymore and I can't just sit around all day long.

And so, I decided to walk my self all the way to the bookstore that I always go to. I groaned as the truck that drove by splashed dirty water on my pants. My reflexes weren't fast enough for me to cover myself with my umbrella. 

" Great. Just great." I rolled my eyes and sighed. Though the annoying feeling completely disappeared as I saw the bookstore just across the street. I smiled at the sight, the feeling of the warm and cozy environment that store holds is just incredible, complete with the mangas that I would read all day if I can. 

I entered through its glass doors and waved shyly at the cashier. He knows I'm a frequent customer, too frequent to be exact. 

" Nagisa-chan, welcome back." The old yet very nice man greeted me. I smiled warmly at him, knowing how he makes me feel welcomed every day. 

" Looking for another manga to read?" I nodded my head.

" I've finished all of mine already," I awkwardly chuckled and looked at the array of mangas in front of me.

" Well, I have a lot you know. How's the one you recently just bought?" 

" It was awesome, uncle," I replied and complimented his skill of recommending really good stories.

" That's good." He continued and laughed.

 " Well, go on and look for more. I've got a lot of time so don't hesitate to read through them." I thanked him for being too kind. He's the only one who sees his job as enjoyable from what I've seen. He must enjoy mangas too. 

I slowly paced through the aisles and looked for the ones that pique my interest. Am I looking for another romance manga? Too predictable. Action? Too much action. Horror? Maybe. 

My train of thought was put into a halt when I saw a familiar face in the same aisle as me. My eyes widened. It was Leon, and more importantly what is he doing here? I never knew he'd be this interested in mangas or books.

I wanted to hide from him but it was too late. His eyes caught mine and we both stopped what we were doing. 

" Sawamura?" He called out to me as his arm slowly lowered down because of the book in his hand. 

" L-Leon. I didn't know you'd be here out of all places." He avoided my gaze and hid the book he was holding in his hand. 

" W-well. I was told to come here." I couldn't help but smile. Maybe I've influenced him into liking mangas and if that was the case, I'd be glad.

" Oh okay, what manga are you holding right now?" I walked over to him but his feet stepped back a few steps. He cleared his throat and showed me. 

" Junji Ito? You're interested in horror?" I curiously asked him. It's a side I never knew he had. 

" Yeah..." He turned to the bookcase and avoided my eyes. Leon feels more reserved than I do. I mean, I'm not even that reserved. I just prefer to be alone most times.