After splitting away from the rest of the group after class, Kazuki made his way to his part-time job.
It was a tech shop located not that from the Tokyo Art Institute. Normally, you would need certain certifications to work at a tech shop, unless you were just doing retail work. But Kazuki got lucky.
When he started his third year of highschool, Kazuki decided he wanted to get a head start on being independent. He was offered a good deal at an apartment complex owned by a close family friend, but no matter how good a deal he got, he’d still need a way to pay the bill every month. Not to mention things like food and clothing.
This led him to start looking around for jobs. He figured something tech related would be easiest. He could easily see himself helping customers find the right gadgets to fit their needs. Which led him to this particular tech shop; Tech Koubou.
When he entered, he instantly felt at home, and decided to have a look around before asking about potential job openings. That’s when he noticed several employees at the repair desk wracking their brains over a computer.
From what he overheard, it was very similar to an issue he’d solved before. Thinking he would help save them some time, he walked up and offered his opinion. Looking back, it could be seen as extremely rude to just walk up and tell someone how to do their job, though he didn’t mean it that way.
However, the solution he offered proved to be what fixed the issue, and saved the customer from a heavy repair cost. The owner of the shop just so happened to be nearby and had watched the whole exchange.
The result wasn’t too far off from one of those success stories where someone is performing a song in a mall. They play so beautifully; the notes extract a range of emotions from the shoppers, capturing their attention as they walk by. All the while, a producer just so happens to be watching from the sidelines.
And just like the producer would approach the mall talent after their performance, so too did the owner of Tech Koubou approach Kazuki. Upon hearing that Kazuki was actually looking for a job, the owner hired him on the spot. Not just as a clerk, but as a more general employee.
The gig wasn’t too far off from an internship. He would help out with both the retail and repair side of things. Normally, one would need to obtain the certifications, but if they treated the position more like an internship, they could get around that.
Almost two years had passed since then. Kazuki, with some help from the owner, obtained the minimum certification required and was now a full-fledged employee. Though he still worked part-time hours.
Regardless, over that time, he has built a relatively good reputation for himself among his coworkers and repeat customers. One such regular entered the shop as Kazuki was stocking shelves.
It was Mrs. Sato. She was a kind elderly lady, who always felt like a grandmother to anyone she interacted with. She had this old laptop that she was quite attached to, as it was a gift from her late husband. They used it to store photos from their retirement travels, but it was quite outdated and didn’t support many updates.
It first stopped working a year ago. Mrs. Sato went to many tech shops to have it fixed. However, they all strongly urged her to upgrade to a newer laptop. But given the sentimental value, and the difficulty of adjusting to a new operating system, she just didn’t want to take that plunge.
Then, she happened to stumble upon Tech Koubou. Kazuki didn’t try to push her into getting a new one, he instead repaired the issue and cleaned it for her. Ever since then, she comes to him anytime she needs help.
“Kazuki, dear, could I trouble you again?” She asked, holding her laptop under her arm.
“It’s no trouble at all, Mrs. Sato. How can I help you?” He replied with a warm smile.
“It’s the laptop again. When I try to open a picture, a blue screen comes up and then it shuts off. I’m worried it’s done for.” She replied, placing her free hand gently on the laptop.
“Let’s take a look at it first and see what we can do.” He said as he gestured towards the repair counter.
Mrs. Sato handed Kazuki the laptop, and he placed it gently on the counter. After opening it and pressing the power button, it turned on, then flashed a blue screen before shutting off.
Mrs. Sato had a worried expression. “That’s what it keeps doing, though it’s happening a lot faster now.”
He gave a nod, having confirmed his suspicion. “It looks like an issue with the hard drive. Over time, they can wear out and stop working, especially the older models.”
Her eyes widened, “Does that mean all our photos…?”
He quickly reassured her with a warm smile. “Don’t worry, Mrs. Sato. Typically, with this kind of issue, the files are still there. The computer just can’t access them.”
“Well, that’s a relief,” she said with a sigh. “Some of those photos are from places I don’t think I’ll be able to visit again. Like the trip we took to France. Nagato always wanted to go there. I remember him being filled with so much excitement, it was like he was in high school again.” She finished with a fond chuckle, then asked, "So you can fix it?"
“Yes, ma’am, but I’ll have to replace the hard drive.” He saw she was getting nervous again, so he reassured her, “It’s nothing to worry about. I’ll transfer everything from the old one to the new one. Besides, I thought this might be an issue soon. So, I backed everything up last time you came in. All of your precious memories are safe.”
She let out another relieved sigh. “You’re always so thoughtful, Kazuki. My husband used to say, ‘Technology will always advance, but it’s the people behind it that matter most.’ You remind me of him in that way.”
Kazuki flushed, touched by the compliment. “Thank you, Mrs. Sato. That means a lot.”
Pausing a moment, he continued, “While I’m working on the hard drive, would you like me to make some upgrades? We can add a faster drive, give you a bit more storage space, and maybe increase the RAM. It’ll make your laptop work smoother and faster. I could also give it a good internal cleaning to ensure it stays cool and efficient.”
Mrs. Sato’s eyes twinkled. “Will it make my old laptop feel brand new?”
Kazuki laughed. “Not exactly brand new, but much closer to it.”
“Then go ahead,” she said. “I trust your judgment.”
As Kazuki began the process, Mrs. Sato continued to chat. “You know, I recently went to Kyoto again. The sakura trees were in full bloom. Such a beautiful sight. You should visit with someone special sometime. It’s truly magical.”
Kazuki hesitated, his hands pausing for a brief moment, “Maybe I will.”
She winked. “Life is short, dear. Don’t let beautiful moments pass you by. And remember, cherry blossoms are not the only things that bloom when given the right care and attention.”
He chuckled, “I’ll keep that in mind, Mrs. Sato.”
By the time their conversation ended, Kazuki was almost done with the initial setup. The chat had made the work feel quicker and far more pleasant.
Mrs. Sato, getting ready to leave, said, “Take care, Kazuki. And don’t forget to enjoy life beyond these techy walls.”
“I promise I won’t,” he replied, waving her off as she exited the shop.
Watching her leave, he felt a renewed appreciation. Working here had taught him a lot but, perhaps the most important things he learned, were the stories and relationships behind the tech. And how those devices connected people in all walks of life.
----------------------------------------
Hiroshi, like Ayaka and Kaori, still lived with his parents. Most people in the neighborhood knew the Nakamura family, as they were long-time residents of the area. And, befitting their name, their home was in the middle of one street. In contrast to the newer, more modern houses lining the street, the Nakamura family home stood proudly, boasting its storied history. One could tell how well taken care of it was by looking at it, despite its age. Like the Nakamura family themselves, it was a welcomed and cherished part of the neighborhood.
Upon entering, one’s gaze would immediately navigate to the family photos adorning the walls. The centerpiece was a photo of a younger Hiroshi with his parents and his little sister, all laughing at some possibly forgotten joke. Beside it was a picture of Hiroshi at his high school graduation, proudly holding up his diploma with his sister cheering him on from the side. Likewise, there were pictures of his sister at milestones in her life, such as when she received her high school acceptance letter.
Displayed around the living room were remnants of their childhood-a once loved stuffed toy living out its retirement atop a shelf, drawings lovingly taped to the walls, even crafts and school projects prominently on display. Everything had its place, each item narrating a small piece of the Nakamura story.
Next to the living room was a modest kitchen, where pleasant scents that would tickle even a full stomach often originated. It was a home filled with love, warmth, and cherished memories, even in the face of absence.
Hiroshi’s room was its own world within this abode, an embodiment of his personality and growth. The soft rays of the sun rapidly retreated, but Hiroshi’s room remained bathed in a comforting light. One might say his room was the epitome of organized chaos. Stacks of papers, college textbooks, and manga volumes dotted the space.
Seated cross-legged on the bed was Hiroshi’s younger sister, Yuki. Across from her, sitting in the desk chair, was Hiroshi. The bed was awash with papers, rough drafts of Yuki’s high school entrance ceremony speech. Yuki recited her speech, stumbling over words, hesitating on others, and pausing in frustration. Though she forged on with a determination only a teenager could muster.
“That part about ‘embracing our future challenges’ sounds a little generic… maybe we could rephrase it?” He suggested warmly.
Yuki took a moment, biting the tip of her pencil, deep in thought. “Okay, how about ‘facing the hurdles of tomorrow with the heart of a warrior’?”
Hiroshi looked up, impressed. “That’s strong! But maybe ‘unyielding spirit’ instead of ‘heart of a warrior’? It’d sound less aggressive but still powerful.”
Yuki chuckled, nodding in agreement. “You always know how to find the balance. This is why I come to you, big bro.”
He smiled, ruffling her hair affectionately. “It’s your voice, Yuki. I’m just helping you fine-tune it.”
She rolled her eyes playfully, trying to fix her tousled hair. “Still, your input always makes things sound... cooler. Remember that essay last year? I got an A because of your suggestions!”
He winked. “That A was all you. But I’ll take a tiny bit of credit.”
Amidst the typical sibling playfulness, their interactions were often a dance of mutual respect. Yuki valued her elder brother’s wisdom, leaning into his guidance without ever losing her own voice. In turn, Hiroshi reveled in empowering her, ensuring that she believed in her own thoughts and convictions as much as she did his.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
Just as the pleasant aroma of a home-cooked meal brought them out of their brainstorming session, a familiar tune grabbed their attention. It was the ringtone Hiroshi set for his mom. Hiroshi picked up the phone with the slightest of hesitation.
“Hey, mom.”
Yuki, drawing from the uncanny intuition siblings share, already sensed the contents of the call. Her face fell slightly as Hiroshi’s expression turned from hope to understanding.
“No, I understand.
Yeah, we’ll make sure to leave some out for you.
Don’t worry about it, really.
Okay, see you later.
Love you too.”
The end of the call left a hollow silence. Hiroshi lowered the phone, pressing the screen off and setting it aside. His gaze met the concerned eyes of his younger sister.
“Another late night at work?” Yuki asked, her voice laced with a mixture of concern and barely concealed bitterness.
Hiroshi sighed, nodding. “Yeah.”
She scoffed, “Seems to be a pattern, doesn’t it? Every important occasion...”
Hiroshi reached out, placing a gentle hand on Yuki’s shoulder. “Yuki, you know mom is trying her best. She works hard to keep us afloat. It’s not easy for her either.”
Yuki’s eyes glistened, the weight of their mom’s absence pressing heavily on her. “I know, Hiroshi. But sometimes it feels like she’s missing out on our lives. Missing out on the moments that matter.”
Hiroshi pulled her into a comforting embrace. “She loves us, Yuki. And she would be here if she could. We just need to be strong for each other.”
They held onto each other for a moment, drawing strength from their bond.
Pulling away, Yuki wiped her eyes. “I guess dinner won’t serve itself, huh?”
Hiroshi chuckled, “Especially not with your delicious curry on the menu.”
As the two settled down at the dining table, the ambiance was a mix of the warmth of the meal and the cool evening breeze filtering through a slightly ajar window. Yuki skillfully dished out servings, her culinary prowess evident in the delightful aroma wafting from each plate.
Silence, however, was the dominant sound between them for a few moments, punctuated only by the clinking of cutlery. Yuki’s face was contemplative, and Hiroshi could sense her preoccupation.
“You did an amazing job with the meal, Yuki,” Hiroshi complimented, hoping to dispel the quiet.
“Thanks, big bro.” She said proudly. But she fell silent again as they ate. After some long minutes, she hesitantly broke the silence again. “Hey Hiro-nii… you remember that old telescope dad had? I was thinking about it today.”
Hiroshi tensed slightly, the memories flooding in. “Yeah,” he replied, his voice softer than usual. “He loved stargazing. Said the stars were like life, vast and mysterious, but filled with tiny lights of hope.”
A wistful smile touched Yuki’s lips. “He used to show me the constellations, making up playful stories about them.”
She looked at her half eaten plate of curry. She couldn’t meet her brother’s eyes. Knowing how difficult it was for herself, she knew it was even harder for her brother to talk about. But with a quivering voice, she continued. “I wish I had more time with him… to learn from his wisdom like you did. All I have are bits and pieces and… I feel like they’re fading.”
Hiroshi looked down, his heart heavy. The emotional gravity of Yuki’s words, combined with the weight of his own memories, seemed to push down on him. After a long pause, he finally spoke. “Yuki... it’s a pain that never truly goes away, but it changes with time. Dad left us too soon, and that void... it’s profound. But every memory, every story, every lesson he shared with us—even if it seems like those memories are fading—we don’t lose them, they become a part of us.”
He reached out, placing his hand over hers. “I promise I’ll share everything I remember. Every moment, every lesson. We won’t let those memories fade. Together, we’ll keep his spirit alive.”
Yuki, tears forming in her eyes, nodded. “Thank you, Hiro-nii. That means everything to me.”
With dinner over and the dishes cleaned, the home descended into the calming quiet of nighttime. Yuki, feeling the weight of the day and their conversation, bid her brother goodnight and retired to her room.
Hiroshi, on the other hand, found himself drawn to his window. Pushing it further open, the cool night air greeted him. He gazed upwards, eyes catching the myriad of stars that dotted the expansive sky. Each one twinkled, as if winking at him from eons away.
Sitting on his bed, he leaned against the window frame, absorbing the celestial view. He remembered the nights when his father would set up the old telescope in the backyard, beckoning his young self over with a twinkle in his eye, similar to the stars above. “Hiroshi,” he’d say, “each star is like a story, waiting to be discovered, waiting to be understood.”
With each star that Hiroshi gazed upon, a memory of his father seemed to surface. He remembered the warm evenings when neighbors, friends, and even strangers would often seek his father’s counsel in their backyard. Underneath the sprawling canvas of the night sky, his father had a unique way of weaving tales and wisdom, using the stars as metaphors for life’s challenges and triumphs.
One evening, a distraught neighbor had come over, her heart heavy with the weight of a personal loss. Hiroshi, peeking from behind the curtains of his room, had watched as his father pointed towards the constellation of Orion. “See those three stars? They’re the hunter’s belt, always aligned, always together. But even if one fades, the constellation doesn’t lose its identity. It remains; ever strong, ever bright. Life will throw its challenges, but we must find our strength, align with those who support us, and shine on.”
His father’s wisdom was not just confined to the stars. The way he lived his life, the kindness he showed to others, the patience with which he listened, and the depth of his insights made him a beacon for many. Hiroshi recalled how people would often leave their house with lighter hearts and a clarity of purpose, the stars above bearing witness to the wisdom shared below.
As Hiroshi reminisced, he realized that his father’s legacy was not just in the memories he held, but in the lives of all the people he had touched. The wisdom, the stories, the guidance—his father had been a guiding star, not just for Hiroshi and Yuki, but for countless others.
A singular, bright star caught his attention. His father had once told him that it was their family star—a beacon, guiding them through the rough patches of life. “Whenever you feel lost or alone,” he’d said, “look up. Know that wherever I am, I’m watching over you.”
A tear slid down Hiroshi’s cheek, the weight of memories, both joyous and painful, pressing upon him. Despite the vastness of the sky and the countless stars, there was an empty space—a void that no amount of celestial beauty could fill.
Yet, as the night deepened, a sense of pride welled up in Hiroshi, mingled with the ever-present sorrow of loss. But with that pride came a responsibility—a silent promise to carry forward the legacy of wisdom, to be a guiding star for Yuki, and perhaps for others too.
Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath, the coolness of the night air filling his lungs and calming his restless heart. Slowly, he drifted to sleep, the night’s silence a fitting backdrop to the cacophony of his thoughts and emotions.
----------------------------------------
A massive shopping mall in the center of Tokyo was buzzing with activity. Despite its size, escalators and stars alike were packed with people. The large walkways and open areas gave a feel of a main road during rush hour. It was an introverts nightmare. But for Miyuki, Kaori, and Ayaka, it was a haven of fashion, a cluster of tasty restaurants, and an endless display of everything that was popular and trendy.
Though, if they weren’t too caught up in their own world to notice all the other people, they would probably prefer a thinner crowd. The trio navigated the mall with practice, ducking in and out of the shops as they browsed their clothing racks.
“Hey, Miyuki, what kind of party is this, anyway? You said it was something family related, right?” Kaori asked.
Miyuki paused for a moment, a slight frown briefing her lips. “Well… it’s not exactly a family party. Since my family is so involved in politics, they have to attend high-class parties to keep face and maintain connections.”
“No way. Hm, so think more along the lines of a princess attending a party of nobles.” Ayaka said thoughtfully.
Miyuki smiled wryly. “Honestly… I’m nothing like a princess, but I guess you’re not too far off.”
“That is where you’re wrong, Mii-chan,” Kaori grasped Miyuki in a tight hug. “You’re our princess.”
Miyuki was stunned for a moment, caught completely off-guard. “I-If you say so.” Her expression turned warm as her friend pulled away and looked at her. “Anyway, fancy dresses and fashionable accessories are par for the course. It’s actually a big deal to wear the same thing twice, so I’m forced to get something new for every party, just to never wear it again.”
Kaori rolled her eyes dramatically. “High society problems, huh? Still, what a waste! If I bought a dress for every party, I’d wear it everywhere! To the park, to the beach, maybe even to bed!”
The trio laughed, but Ayaka’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. “So, if you don’t wear them again... what happens to all those dresses?”
Miyuki pursed her lips, thinking, “Some end up as hand-me-downs to younger relatives, some are donated, and others... just sit in my closet.”
Kaori nudged her playfully. “Sounds like you need to host a fashion show. Or maybe start a rental business!”
Miyuki laughed. “Not a bad idea. It’d certainly make all this shopping feel a bit more worthwhile.”
As they moved deeper into the mall, a dazzling array of colors, fabrics, and designs surrounded them. Kaori, ever the mischief-maker, pulled out a particularly revealing outfit, wiggling her eyebrows at Miyuki. “Think Kazuki would like this?”
Ayaka, a tad embarrassed, tried to stifle her giggle.
Miyuki’s composure broke down for a moment as she replied, “What’s Kazuki got to with this?!” Realizing her outburst, she cleared her throat and rolled her eyes. “I think that might be more suited for a beach party than a political one!”
Looking fairly satisfied with Miyuki’s reaction, Kaori put it back with a mock pout. “I thought it was kind of cute.”
Miyuki brought her palm to her face. “Please tell me you don’t wear stuff like that regularly.” She teased.
“What?! I was just messing with you… I-I wouldn’t actually wear something like that,” Kaori defended herself in a slight panic.
“Pffft. Good one Mii-chan! I’ve never seen Kiki look so embarrassed before.” Ayaka said, unable to hold her fit of laughter back anymore.
“Oh, like you’re one to talk! I’m sure you’re wondering if Hiroshi likes stuff like that,” Kaori retorted.
“Wha. T-There’s no way I would wear something like that! No, no, no!” Ayaka responded in a fluster.
Miyuki was pretty sure even Ayaka’s neck was turning pink. “Wait… You and Hiroshi.” She put her cheek to her hand as she thought for a moment. “I didn’t really think about it but, are you two dating?”
Ayaka completely froze. If she was a teakettle, the lid would’ve shot into the air from the steam pressure.
Kaori sighed in slight frustration. “No, they aren’t. I keep telling her she should just make a move already, but…”
“I see.” Miyuki looked at the still motionless Ayaka. “You’re worried about losing the relationship you share now, aren’t you?”
Miyuki gently took Ayaka’s hand, her eyes reflecting understanding and compassion. “You know, relationships evolve, and they can be unpredictable. But what remains consistent is how we feel. Hiroshi’s a good guy, and you two have always been close.”
Ayaka looked up, her eyes a tad glossy. “I just... I don’t want to risk what we have.”
Kaori wrapped an arm around Ayaka. “And that’s okay. Timing is everything. When you’re ready, you’ll know.”
Miyuki added with a soft smile, “But don’t let fear dictate your choices, Ayaka. Life’s too short for what-ifs.”
Just as Ayaka was searching for the right words to respond, a loud, enthusiastic voice echoed from a nearby store. “Clearance sale! Half-price on all accessories!”
Miyuki, spotting a chance to lighten the mood, raised an eyebrow playfully. “Now, that sounds like a good deal. And with the number of parties I’m dragged into, I could always use more accessories.”
Kaori grinned, nudging Ayaka playfully. “Let’s go, Aya. I saw some pretty necklaces that might catch a certain someone’s attention.”
Ayaka groaned but laughed. “You never quit, do you?”
Miyuki smiled, linking her arm with Ayaka’s. “Let’s get moving before everything’s gone. We can figure out the other stuff later.”
After what felt like hours of scouring stores, navigating bustling crowds, and trying on more clothes than Miyuki could count, the trio found themselves at a quaint café—nestled in a quieter corner of the mall. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air, providing a comforting atmosphere.
They sat by the window, their shopping bags huddled at their feet. Miyuki sipped her coffee slowly, gazing out at the throng of shoppers below, seemingly lost in thought.
Kaori, nibbling on a bean bun, broke the silence. “You’ve been really quiet since we started talking about the party. Is everything okay?”
Miyuki sighed, placing her cup on the table. “Honestly? Not really. I mean, the dresses and the accessories are fun to shop for, but the party itself? I loathe them.”
Ayaka tilted her head. “Is it because they’re boring?”
Miyuki chuckled, “I wish it were that simple. It’s the facade. Everyone at those parties... their words, their smiles, they all seem so calculated. Like they’re wearing masks.”
Kaori frowned, “Sounds suffocating.”
“It is,” Miyuki admitted. “And I fear that the longer I stay in that world, the harder it’ll be for me to leave. My family is deeply entrenched in politics, and they have expectations for me. But every time I attend one of these gatherings, I feel a piece of me fading away.”
Ayaka reached over, placing a hand over Miyuki’s. “Mii-chan, if you ever feel trapped, remember that you’ve got us. You don’t have to go through it alone.”
Kaori nodded, her voice firm. “Exactly. You’re more than just the daughter of a political family. You’re our friend. And while we might not fully understand the pressures you face, we’ll always be here to support you.”
Miyuki’s eyes glistened with tears, but she smiled. “Thank you, both of you. I just... I don’t want that world to define me. I want to find my own path.”
“And you will,” Kaori said with a wink. “But for now, let’s enjoy our coffee and buns. And maybe later, we can find you a dress that’ll knock everyone’s socks off.”
The laughter slowly ebbed, leaving a moment of silence that felt neither awkward nor forced. Miyuki gazed at her two friends, their presence an anchor in the storm of her emotions. For the first time in a long while, she felt seen, truly seen, and not as the potential heir to a political dynasty or a pawn in the games of high society.
I’ve always been surrounded by people, she mused, taking a sip of her coffee, but it’s been so long since I felt genuinely connected. In those political gatherings, it’s as if I wear a mask, acting out a role that was scripted for me long before I was born. With every fake smile, every rehearsed compliment, a part of me feels like it’s fading.
She glanced down at her intertwined fingers with Ayaka, feeling the warmth of her friend’s grip. But here, with them, I can be Miyuki. Not the heiress, not the face of a legacy, but just... me.
Her gaze shifted to the bustling crowd outside the café window. So many faces, so many stories. And for a fleeting moment, she envied them, their freedom to be just ordinary, away from the stifling expectations.
But then, a realization blossomed within her. Maybe, just maybe, with Ayaka and Kaori by my side, I can find a way to be both - to honor my family’s legacy, yet carve out a space for myself in this vast world.
She smiled, taking another sip of her drink. The path ahead was uncertain, but with genuine friends by her side, it felt a little less daunting.