Chapter- 42

I had been unsure ever since I got home. I wanted to go and support Rie somehow, but was it okay to take a day off from work for that reason?

　"...Excuse me, manager. I have a part-time job tomorrow, but I'd like to take the day off if possible."

　There was no point in worrying about it, so I decided to call the manager of the place where I worked part-time.

　"Mamoru-kun is taking a day off? Of course I don't mind, but you hasn't had a day off since we started, so what's wrong? ...C-Could you be sick or seriously injured?! A-Are you okay?! Should I go visit you?"

Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

　"No, no."

　『Huh?! Refusing to meet with me?! I don't want to you die!!』

　"...Please calm down, manager. It's fine. I just wanted to go to a friend's club game. Is that a bad reason?"

　…I guess it's no good after all? Wanting to take a break for such a personal reason.

　"Oh, that's good. That's totally fine, but... Oh, by the way! I'd like to ask you something. Could you stop by tomorrow morning before the game?"

　"That's fine, but..."

　"Well then, please! I was thinking of starting a new local store, so this would be perfect! Sell some drinks. Of course, I'll pay you for your work!"

　"…Understood"

　…I'm sure she was being considerate, right? Is it okay to be so spoiled by her treating me like a part-timer? But it would be bad to let her kindness go to waste. …So I have to work hard to make up for it!

　After finishing the phone call, I started preparing for tomorrow. … Should I surprise Rie without her knowing? What do I need for a practice match? A towel and a drink? And a lunch box? … Oh! I might need some bandages in case I get hurt! I'll prepare that much for now... No, can I bring another drink to sell? I'll buy a drink.

　After getting ready, I went to bed. I was a little nervous, but more than anything, I was excited.