【Chapter 01: The Dice Roll Problem (Day 176)】
"Hey, Banjō. Don't you think rolling dice is, like, a total drag?"
(T/N: Derived by flipping the kanji of his surname Tokiwa (常盤 -> 盤常 -> Banjo). Banjo also sounds like Banjō (盤上), meaning "on the board/board game surface.")
Once again, Takanashi-san was stomping all over my landmines.
It was a gentle autumn afternoon. We were on the fourth floor of a multi-tenant building in Ogikubo, Tokyo, sitting in a booth at "Kurumaza," a board game cafe where the crickets chirped louder than the customers.
And she was directing this at me—Tokiwa Kotaro (17), the acting manager and a bona fide board game otaku. A high school Gal part-timer with zero love for board games. While drying her nails, no less.
She had the audacity to casually dismiss the "die," the very ancestor and keystone of board games.
"...Haa."
I let out a deep sigh, temporarily closed the rulebook for the new dice game I was test-playing, placed it gently on the table, and pushed up the bridge of my glasses with my right middle finger.
Then, after a long, deliberate pause... I made my thick lenses glint menacingly and began my rebuttal.
"It is not a drag in the slightest. Why do you ask?"
"Ugh, see? That vibe right there is already a drag."
The board-game-ignorant Gal fired a blunt retort from the opposite seat, her tone dripping with exasperation and disdain. Honestly, that attack was super effective against a high school dropout/gloomy otaku freelancer like me.
However, when it comes to topics regarding our own hobbies, otakus are invincible. Pointlessly invincible.
I slowly stood up, grabbed a handful of dice from the game I was testing, and, with a strong tone, said, "Listen here."
"The act of rolling dice is, in itself, already entering the realm of a 'Game'."
"? Were you just talking about Jujusu Kaisen or something?"
"I was not. Ah, but comparing the relationship between dice and board games to Cursed Techniques and Domain Expansions is actually kind of interesting. Alright, ten points to Takanashi-san."
"Hell yeah! I'm gonna use those points to buy some new Dior cosmetics."
"Ah, s-sorry, those ten points don't actually have any monetary value..."
"Useless."
"Guh...! A-Anyway, we are talking about board games that involve rolling dice right now."
"Oh, that."
Takanashi-san blew on her fingertips—fhoo. How can she be so disinterested in a topic she brought up herself? What is her deal?
And yet, despite that, she casually threw out a strangely sharp observation.
"But like, games where dice are involved... isn't there a high rate of them ruining the mood?"
"W-Well, I won't deny there is that aspect, but..."
My right hand, which had been clutching the dice high in the air, withered and lowered, losing its strength.
"Right? Customers who get bad rolls and can't get into the match at all... trying to smooth things over for them is seriously a 0% win-rate game."
As expected of a board game cafe clerk, even a rotten one. She was thinking of the customers while stabbing right at the painful truth. My eyes swam nervously, but I managed to sit back down and continue my persuasion.
"B-But, conversely, because of that exquisite luck factor involved in dice rolling, there are many games where even beginners can get genuinely hyped up, aren't there?"
As I said this, I tossed the handful of dice onto the felt tray with a clatter. Incidentally, the results were all 3 or lower. Trash rolls. And Takanashi-san, not even glancing at them, continued.
"Like, what's a simple game that gets hyped with dice? Cho-Han gambling?"
"Unexpectedly dirty example. No, to put it in terms closer to our cafe, I'm talking about games like Las Vegas, Bluff, or Ciao Ciao. I believe those luck elements actually lower the barrier to entry for beginners."
"Ah, true. Guess there are those kinds too."
After that reply, Takanashi-san fell silent for a moment. She still seemed to be devoting the majority of her consciousness to her nails, but it appeared she was actually giving my opinion some thought.
A moment of silence. Taking advantage of this, I stared straight at her.
Bobbed hair dyed a vivid pink. Light makeup applied to her beautifully symmetrical features, and the way she blew breath from her pale red lips to dry her nails was strangely alluring.
The sailor-style uniform hidden beneath her employee apron gave off a sense of innocence, while her skirt length was hiked up to a line that was just barely not too vulgar, establishing an exquisite balance between cuteness and sex appeal.
...Well, to sum it up in a word, she was a Reiwa-era Gal.
For a shut-in, gloomy otaku like me, she was practically a natural predator.
The type of species that, if I encountered her on the street, I'd immediately avert my eyes and scurry past.
And yet, right now—I was staring at her with single-minded intensity.
There’s only one reason a trash-tier otaku like me would be staring at a Gal.
I, from the bottom of my heart, toward this natural enemy Gal colleague with whom I seemingly had zero chemistry...
...Like her so much I can't stand it.
(Ah, looking at Takanashi-san head-on... she's radiant today too!)
The preciousness of the target made my heart race so fast it was becoming hard to breathe.
I unconsciously clutched my chest and looked down, which naturally caused Takanashi-san to sense something was wrong and call out.
"What's up? Banjō."
Her voice sounded faintly worried. Honestly, it was unbearably endearing. Endearing, but...
"...No."
I immediately raised my face, wiping all emotion from it, and lifted the bridge of my glasses as if nothing had happened.
"It is nothing. I simply choked on a sudden 'supply overload'."
"What does that even mean? Cringe."
Takanashi-san immediately sliced through my heart with a casual verbal knife, then went back to fiddling with her nails, disinterestedly lost in thought again.
And yet... I still looked at her with a passionate gaze.
I'll admit it. The current me is seriously gross. Truly disgusting as a human being. I know. This is clearly not the kind of look one should be giving a "colleague" at work.
But even so, I can't help what I like. Just as a faithful dog who can "wait" on command can't completely erase its interest in the treat itself.
Asking me not to enjoy even a millimeter of my bias's radiance, fragrance, and visage in this two-person work environment is fundamentally impossible.
Every element leaking from her into this world is just precious.
............
...Yeah, no, sorry. I'll say it before you do. This guy is seriously creepy.
H-However, if I may offer a slight excuse, it's not like I was this pathetic from the start.
In fact, six months ago, when I first met her as a fellow opening staff member of this board game cafe "Kurumaza," I actually found this woman, "Takanashi Mifuru," a bit difficult to deal with—matching the first impression of her appearance I listed earlier.
However—be that as it may, this is a deserted board game cafe.
Customers are scarce, and we barely interact with any employees other than ourselves. People we could call regulars... ah, there were some for a while, but they haven't shown their faces much lately.
In other words, for the past half-year, day in and day out, we've spent hours almost entirely alone together. While occasionally mixing in small talk or deep consultations about our worries, we basically just happily test-played the shop's board games.
And as for me, on top of being a virgin in-kya (gloomy introvert), I'm a human who has basically had zero interaction with others since dropping out of high school about a year ago.
............
No, come on! You'd fall in love, wouldn't you?! Anyone would!
W-Well, I honestly am a bit put off by myself too. Thinking, "You're way too easy."
falling hook, line, and sinker for a "Gal who is kind to otakus"—as a board game otaku, I truly think it's pathetic. Really.
But my twisted, petty pride...
Wasn't enough to overcome my genuine affection for a colleague who was fun to talk to.
To be honest, the "exterior" of the person known as Takanashi Mifuru was exactly as my initial impression suggested. An extrovert, a Gal, a party animal. I remember her motivation for this job was something vague like "I just wanted to play a bit," though I forget the exact phrasing.
So naturally, she had neither love nor knowledge of board games, and she couldn't even properly perform an "Inst" (Rules Instruction)—arguably the most required skill for a board game cafe clerk.
But—despite that, she wasn't "insincere."
Sure, she got the rules wrong, but the tables she joined were always overflowing with laughter.
For someone who claimed no interest in board games, she handled the components (pieces, boards, etc.) with care and gentleness.
And above all, she was someone who really listened to the words of others. Whether she ultimately agreed or disagreed, she absolutely never dismissed someone's argument out of hand.
In other words, before even getting to board games, as a "cafe clerk"—no, as a "person," she was incredibly well put together.
In contrast, I am a human being lacking in many areas, having twisted myself into knots until I finally dropped out of high school. That is why, to me, Takanashi Mifuru was a colleague I could genuinely respect. I truly learned a lot from observing her behavior up close, and thanks to her, I think I've finally become able to handle customer service at a decent level.
On the other hand, when it came to board game knowledge, I had the upper hand. ...Or rather, Takanashi-san's careless personality and board games were just a disastrously bad match.
As a result, we settled into a form where I mainly handled the "Board Game" part, and she mainly handled the "Cafe" part.
And so, for these six months, we worked well together, compensating for each other's deficiencies.
Furthermore, that relationship often extended beyond working hours.
For example, if she criticized my clothes or hairstyle, I would reprimand her for her instruction mistakes, leading to a decent quarrel and temporary hostility. But in the end, the next day, I would come to work with my hair and clothes adjusted according to her advice, and she would stop making the same mistake in her rule explanations... such things were an everyday occurrence.
And then, one night after such a "good relationship" had continued for a while. I had played plenty of board games with my family, eaten a delicious dinner, and was soaking slowly in the bath, feeling so fulfilled that the old me would have had no regrets left.
Suddenly, as if bubbles of the heart were floating up, words naturally spilled from my mouth.
"Ah, I wish I could talk to Takanashi-san a little bit more."
Just like that.
I remember being surprised by my own mutter, and then laughing a little.
Of all people, me—Tokiwa Kotaro, who used to be fine as long as he could play board games—had unknowingly reached a point where he felt a "deficiency" on days he couldn't see her.
Once it came to this... no matter how frustrating, I had to admit it.
I, Tokiwa Kotaro, am helplessly in love with this colleague—
—Takanashi Mifuru.
Now, if one becomes aware of such romantic feelings, the next step is naturally a confession. I know that. I know it, but... in the end, I still haven't conveyed these feelings.
There are, well, various reasons for that. But simply put, it's the classic cowardly category of "I'm afraid of destroying our current relationship" and—
"Chicken."
"Eh!?"
Suddenly having my cowardice pointed out by the person I was pining for right in front of me, my heart leaped.
But it seemed Takanashi-san's intention was different. She continued.
"You know, like Chicken something... ah, Chicken Race? In those kinds of games, rolling the dice and failing makes sense, y'know?"
"A-Ah, you were talking about dice games."
"I mean, isn't that literally all we've been talking about today?"
That is true. Dodging Takanashi-san's suspicious gaze, I cleared my throat with a kohon.
"Certainly. Even with the same phenomenon of 'stumbling on dice luck,' if it's a failure based on a choice where you took a risk yourself, there is a sense of acceptance even if it's frustrating. Like in Las Vegas."
As I said that, I mocked myself internally: Ah, that applies to my love life too. Looking up, Takanashi-san was peering at me with a grinning, teasing look for some reason.
"What is it?"
"Ehehe. Banjō, you were just thinking about Utakata-chan, weren't you? You totally had the face of a 'Virgin in Love'."
"Hah?"
I genuinely tilted my head at the accusation, which was so far off the mark. No, the person I was thinking about just now was exactly you, right in front of me. I wasn't thinking about anyone named Utakata-san at all—
—Wait, then I suddenly remembered a certain "setting" of mine and panicked to smooth things over.
"Ah, yes! Excuse me! I was thinking about 'Utakata-san' just now!"
An incredibly abrupt change of policy. But fortunately, Takanashi-san didn't seem particularly suspicious and laughed, "Right?"
"Don't underestimate my eye for romance."
"H-Ha-haa, I am unworthy, Master Takanashi."
"Raise your head, raise your head."
Takanashi-san played along with my exaggerated bowing in a good mood. ...Okay, I survived. That was close.
But I completely forgot again... The fictional setting that I, Tokiwa Kotaro, am "in love with a person named Utakata Tsukino."
As I was stroking my chest in relief, Takanashi-san happily pressed on.
"Wait, I haven't heard lately, but how's it actually going? The progress with Utakata-chan."
"There is none. I have been saying this forever. Utakata-san is strictly a 'person I admire.' She is a 'high flower' way out of my reach who I don't even have contact with; progress is simply impossible."
"Haa... Banjō's love stories are boring as hell, as usual."
"My deepest apologies."
I waved my hand dismissively. Yes, a while ago, I fed Takanashi-san this "very boring, fake love story." Why... well, that's obvious.
To prevent her from realizing that the person I really like is Takanashi Mifuru—her.
Of course, it would have been best if I could have kept the fact that I was in love with anyone hidden entirely. But since the object of my affection is right in front of me during work, I occasionally exposed that "virgin in love face" Takanashi-san mentioned earlier.
The result of trying to evade her pursuit of that topic as naturally as possible was this setting: "Tokiwa Kotaro has feelings for a person named 'Utakata Tsukino'."
By the way, Utakata-san is a real person and a bit of a celebrity around here. The reason being, she is a female Shogi player. An active high school student, no less, and a titleholder of "Female Genryu."
And well, how to express this in these times—frankly, she was a beauty. Long, lustrous black hair, almond-shaped eyes filled with intelligence, a slender model-like figure. She was a woman who caught the eye enough that the media coverage was clearly on a different level.
And that Utakata Tsukino-san. She was originally somewhat famous around here as a genius Shogi girl, but her fame jumped to a national level at the Female Genryu tournament a while back. A young female Shogi player advancing through the league and finally challenging the Female Genryu to achieve a giant killing was a truly catchy topic.
Though, since acquiring the title, she hasn't had any particularly standout achievements, and the national frenzy feels like it has calmed down a bit. But her local popularity is still deeply rooted.
For a while, I used to hear her name and exaggerated rumors about her constantly from the male customers at the cafe. Saying things like "I saw her buying potatoes at the neighborhood supermarket so she must be domestic," or "That tenacity in her moves means she's definitely the type with heavy love," or "Actually, I heard she likes board games." Well, convenient and overly superficial glorification was rampant.
But that's exactly why I thought I could use this frenzy.
I would go with the setting that I am just one of the teeming masses pining for "Utakata Tsukino." I judged that this would be easy to push through as a reasonable "sustainable, paper-thin fake love story." ...Well, the downside is that it's so thin I often forget it myself.
"Banjō, like, you should just try confessing lightly or something."
Takanashi-san suggested this while applying what looked like a coating agent to her nails.
I deflected the suggestion casually as always.
"No, there is no such thing as 'lightly' when it comes to a confession of love."
"There totally is. Try sending a LINE saying 'I think I might like you a bit' or something."
"What is that disgusting upbeat groove? Wait, Takanashi-san, what would you think of a male acquaintance who suddenly sent you a LINE like that?"
"Eh, impossible. Creepy. Super annoying. I might even expose him on social media."
"You literally just urged me to do that, didn't you?"
"Ah-ha-ha."
"What are you laughing at?"
This woman almost ruined my life for amusement. Is she a devil? Also, obviously, I don't know Utakata Tsukino-san's contact information. But regarding that, I might have thrown out a random "we're acquaintances" setting in past conversations, so I'll just let it slide for now.
I spoke up to Takanashi-san, who was carefully applying the coating to her pinky nail.
"Anyway, we are currently test-playing this new dice game. And next is your turn, Takanashi-san."
"Was it? My bad, my bad. So, what do I do again?"
"First, please roll these five dice all at once. Then, with those results..."
"If I get five 'Suki-pi Numbers', it's an instant Big Win, right?"
"No, there is no Exodia-like system like that."
"Exo...? Otaku who satisfy themselves with obscure references like that are seriously annoying."
"I do not want to hear that from someone who casually uses mysterious concepts like 'Suki-pi Number'."
"Ah, a Suki-pi Number is, like, a number that embodies your fave—"
"Ah, I am fine without that kind of party-animal logic. Sorry about that."
I apologized and withdrew, cleared my throat kohon, and corrected the course of the conversation.
"Anyway, just roll the dice first. Here."
I tried to hand over the five dice. But Takanashi-san just glanced at them and made no move to take them. As I tilted my head, Takanashi-san gave a wry smile.
"Sorry Banjō, see, right now, my hands are like this."
Takanashi-san showed off her undried nails. I sighed in exasperation.
"Why, of all times, did you start doing your nails during a board game test play?"
"Nah, even if both my arms are occupied with nail work, I still have Banjō."
"You are counting me as your own arms?"
Amazing. A true-born extrovert. Her concept of "others" is fundamentally different from mine.
I couldn't help but grumble mixed with a sigh.
"Haa... then you shouldn't have said you'd help with my board game test play from the start."
"Ehh? But board games are definitely more fun with two people than one, right?"
"That... is true, but."
"Then hanging out with me is the only choice. Right, Banjō, having fun?"
Takanashi-san smiled innocently as she said that. ...Ah, crap...
I like her too much.
This person is really, really too cute in moments like this. Jeez!
"Okay, Banjō, roll my dice, and just take my turn for me."
"No, that is practically just my solo play at that point, isn't it?"
"Ishishi."
"Good grief..."
While grumbling, I reluctantly rolled the dice for her. ...For people like me, the real thrill of a dice game is right here. The moment you roll the clattering dice with your own hand. If you leave that to someone else, the meaning of playing a board game is—
"Well, but the most important thing in board games is who you sit at the table with, right? On that point, I'm having a blast right now so no problem. How 'bout you, Banjō?"
"...I wonder."
I'm having a blast. I like you. I love you. You're so precious it hurts.
But, managing to suppress the palpitations, I responded plainly while taking her turn. I'm utterly easy, even to myself. Sometimes I think this Gal knows everything and is just wrapping a guy like me around her finger. ...Well, if that were the case, it would actually be easier.
As I placed Takanashi-san's dice on the board and advanced the game, she stared at it vaguely and reignited the love talk.
"Well, actually, with love, you gotta start by expressing your feelings."
"That, well, has a point."
"Not just a point, it's the truth. Ah, in that sense, win or lose..."
She paused there, looked back and forth between the board game and me, and declared.
"The love game doesn't start unless you roll the dice first."
"Yeah, stop that smug face and the world's lamest ruby text expression."
The self-proclaimed romance expert Gal was trying to sound clever to an otaku by linking love and board games. What is with this person? —She's super cute, though.
I tried to lightly change the subject to hide my feelings for her.
"You make it sound easy, but actually, that dice roll in the game has high risks. Depending on the case, it's a dangerous item that carries the risk of destroying human relationships. You can't just easily roll a die with odds like that, can you?"
"Nah, destroying human relationships? In the first place, Utakata-chan and Banjō, relationship-wise, are nothing—"
"Anyway."
When I mention the topic of this "person I like," I force the conversation to end to prevent her from figuring out who I really mean.
"I have no intention of confessing for now. I am fine with that."
"...Ah, so."
Takanashi-san replied emotionlessly, seemingly disappointed in me and losing interest, returning to her nail drying work.
...Honestly, I was aware I said something boring.
Indeed, even in board games, there are moments where taking a bad bet is what makes it exciting. Even if you lose the match, the fun memories are surely irreplaceable.
Takanashi-san is probably saying love is the same. I know for a fact that rather than moping around like this, confessing, taking the risk of being crushed, and failing would definitely feel more refreshing. But... I still can't. I can't confess to Takanashi-san. Because—
At that instant, Takanashi-san's smartphone, which had been casually placed on the table, vibrated. In a flash, the screen display caught my eye without me meaning to look.
<Incoming Call: Usa-kun>
It was expected, but I saw something I didn't want to see. I immediately averted my gaze as a courtesy, but Takanashi-san didn't seem to care at all, as usual.
"I'm answering, Banjō."
"Go ahead. Ah, but if you're going to talk, go to the back room—"
"Yes, yes, it's meee!"
She wasn't listening. Takanashi-san answered the phone with high energy. Well, there are no customers, so it's fine. I'm here, though.
"Usa-kun, what's uup? Rare for you to call!"
In complete contrast to the somewhat downer tension she had while talking to me just moments ago, Takanashi-san began speaking with a voice one tone higher and, above all, a sparkling smile.
I felt awkward in various ways and stood up to leave the seat. But Takanashi-san, noticing this sharply, stopped me with eye contact and a hand gesture. It seemed she meant "Don't worry about it," "Banjō, you can stay there."
Y-Yeah. No, I appreciate the consideration itself, but I personally don't want to be here for various reasons...
But unable to protest, I helplessly sat back down and resumed checking the rulebook I had been reading a while ago. Naturally, nothing entered my head.
Because right in front of me, Takanashi-san... my serious crush...
"Ehehe. Whaaat is that? Hilarious, jeez. ...Yeah. I love you too."
—Was flirting heavily with her boyfriend!
"Eh? Yeah, I'm at work. Ah, it's fine, it's fine. Zero customers right now. Ahaha, as if I could have a conversation like this in front of people."
Oops, apparently I wasn't even counted as a "person," let alone a "man."
I involuntarily gripped the manual tightly. But no matter how thin and cheap the paper, the instruction manual is a respectable component of the board game. I held back and prevented wrinkles from forming. I felt strangely sad that I could control my finger strength with reason even at a time like this.
While pointlessly tracing the text of the manual with my eyes, I turned my consciousness inward to shut out the meaning of her conversation.
...There's no need to explain it now, but this is the biggest reason I can't confess to her.
The Gal who is cute, has a good personality, and is kind even to someone like me, naturally has a partner.
Yeah, well, thinking about it normally, the only reaction is "Well, obviously." I wasn't conceited enough to think I was the only man who noticed her charm, and she never lied to me about being currently single. In fact, I was told about her boyfriend's existence at a fairly early stage after we started having private conversations.
In other words, I carelessly fell for Takanashi-san even knowing she had a boyfriend.
Truly, I can only call it foolish.
That's why I don't even have the right to call this heartbreak. I'm just a scumbag pining for someone else's lover.
Naturally, a confession is out of the question. More than that, as I am now, I want to prevent even the slightest chance of her finding out about these feelings. No, I must prevent it.
Because for someone who already has a beloved partner, there is nothing more annoying and creepy than having a workplace colleague direct selfish affection toward them.
The same goes for Takanashi-san's boyfriend. Having his girlfriend get hit on by a colleague at her part-time job would be nothing but unpleasant. And worst case, that could even become a reason for her to quit this job.
However, Takanashi Mifuru is absolutely necessary for this cafe. For the manager, for the customers... and needless to say, for me, Tokiwa Kotaro.
Everyone wishes for her to be able to work here freely and happily.
In short.
My romantic feelings are something that, from anyone's perspective, are nothing but a nuisance.
And yet, my romantic feelings are something that just won't go away.
Actually, "me leaving the job" would currently be the simplest and best solution. But even that is not straightforward for a reason.
"...Oop."
My smartphone in my pocket vibrated, so I checked it and found an image had been dropped into the shop's group LINE. A blond playboy (though in his forties) with tanned skin, sunglasses, and unnaturally shining white teeth was taking a selfie with the sea in the background, a surfboard tucked under his arm. ...It's the manager.
<A big wave is coming tomorrow morning. ...The Hawaiian sea told me so.>
"No, it told you that yesterday and the day before too, you piece of shit!"
I threw my smartphone with the momentum of my retort, but managed to stop myself. Then, the "usual" request flew in from the manager to that smartphone.
<So, totally leaving the shop fully in your hands for a while, 'Acting Manager' Banjō-kun.>
"Haa..."
I instinctively held my head.
Yes. This is the biggest factor why I can't quit this job easily.
The moment I quit, this board game cafe collapses.
Unfortunately, this isn't me being self-conscious. After all, I am currently handling ninety percent of the manager's duties. No, of course, normally it shouldn't be a problem if I leave as long as the manager is there—but, well, he's like that. And sadly, that manager has no attachment to "Board Games." I'd say he has an owner's temperament. The moment he judges this board game cafe as a "troublesome business format that doesn't pay," he will immediately shift the shop to a different concept. In fact, the interior of the shop has already started to become quite Hawaiian due to the manager's hobbies.
In other words, if I quit, at least this "Board Game Cafe" will definitely end.
Seriously, how did it come to this? I was just a humble bottom-tier otaku; when did I end up shouldering this much responsibility?
At first, I was supposed to be just a stopgap otaku part-timer hired for a bit of board game knowledge. Then eventually, I was asked for opinions on board game stocking. Next, I was urged to propose food menus suitable for a board game cafe, then negotiation for that stock, then reviewing the air conditioning—as a result of being delegated tasks derivatively like that...
Finally, the manager entrusted me with ninety percent of the shop's management and left for a surfing trip that was training in name only.
Insane labor load unthinkable for a part-timer. The fact that my hourly wage hasn't increased makes it truly a black company. Lately, I've been using the manager's registered seal like it's normal, and honestly, it wouldn't be strange if it went under at any moment—no, it's stranger that it hasn't gone under yet. That is the current state of this place.
Thinking only of myself, I should quit a job like this immediately.
The colleague I have feelings for constantly gushes about her boyfriend, the manager is a prodigal son, the workload is brutal, I can't play board games as much as I like, and above all, low wages.
Roughly speaking, equivalent exchange is not established; it's the worst situation. And yet...
Suddenly looking up from my smartphone, Takanashi-san was still happily talking to her boyfriend.
"Ah, yeah, that's a bit worrying. Our place, seriously has few customers—"
It seems the topic is still about this part-time job. Takanashi-san glanced at me, and wondering what she meant, gave a light wave with a smile. As I waved back small with a wry smile, Takanashi-san looked at me and—told her boyfriend.
"But, I like it, you know. This job."
"Tsk."
I couldn't look at her eyes. I involuntarily looked away. ...It's not like she confessed her love to me, yet my heart was pounding like an alarm bell. Takanashi-san, seeming not to notice my agitation at all, continued to her boyfriend on the phone.
"It's easy, free, and comfortable, so it's basically god-tier, right? And I can talk to Usa-kun like this too."
Takanashi-san bouncing her voice with a guileless smile. While sighing "good grief," I ended up staring at her profile with a gentle gaze.
—Yes, this is the real reason I don't want to let this shop go under.
Even if the reason is that she can get a lot of time with her boyfriend.
Still, I want to protect the job my crush likes as much as possible. I want to protect it for her.
Of course, if this shop goes under due to financial difficulties, that can't be helped. But at least, I can't overlook the date being hastened "because I quit."
As a result, I am here, dragging on and on—
"Yeah. Jeez, how many times are you gonna make me say it. ...I love you, Usa-kun."
—Being forced to watch the person I fell for flirting from basically the front row every day. Hmm, did I kick a bunch of mating animals in my past life or something? If not, I feel like I've fallen into a hell that is utterly incomprehensible.
To distract myself, I picked up one of the individually wrapped candies for service piled in the basket on the table. Fitting for a board game cafe, it was a square candy shaped like a die. It was provided free of charge for advertising purposes by a local confectionery company. By the way, unlike real dice, the pips on a single candy are all the same. Candies with only 6s or only 1s are randomly in the individual wrappers. In other words, the opening itself is a spec that holds a meaning like a dice roll.
Incidentally, the result of the candy I opened this time was "3". Not a 1, not a 6, yet a number slightly lower than the average expected value. Somehow, a very "me" number. —And then.
"?"
The moment I was about to pop the candy into my mouth, Takanashi-san, maintaining the call, tapped the table ton-ton to appeal for something.
"Yeah. I think I can get off soon? What about you, Usa-kun?"
To me tilting my head, Takanashi-san gestured instructions with her body while still on the call. She was making a motion of pinching something small with her right hand and bringing it to her mouth.
"Um... ...Ah, do you want a candy?"
Guessing vaguely, I confirmed in a whisper. Takanashi-san nodded repeatedly koku-koku. I see. Since one hand is occupied with the smartphone, she can't peel the candy wrapper.
I muttered "Understood," and first, to eat the candy I was just about to ea—
"?"
At that moment, Takanashi-san tapped the table even more violently than before, ton-ton-ton! Looking, she seemed slightly irritated for some reason. I was bewildered, not understanding the meaning. Then, Takanashi-san slowly added instructions with the movement of her finger. Specifically... it seemed to mean this.
<Feed that, to me.>
"Hah? No, why—"
After saying it, I suddenly realized. Come to think of it, these candies are an assortment type. One large bag contains six each of Lemon, Cola, and Cider flavors. And the one I was about to eat was Lemon flavor, but... looking at the basket containing the candies in front of me, the rest were only Cola and Cider.
"Ah, did you like Lemon flavor, Takanashi-san?"
Takanashi-san nodded repeatedly. Shoot, I did something bad. Usually, I pay close attention to the flavors I consume due to certain circumstances, but today of all days, prioritizing looking away from reality, I seem to have unconsciously taken the last Lemon flavor. What's worse, I've even pinched the candy directly with my fingertips now. Even though I sanitized with alcohol right before, a candy I touched directly is probably not edible for her.
"Sorry, I'll refill new ones from the back, so just wai—"
<Feed that, to me.>
Takanashi-san appealed by pointing alternately at the candy I was pinching and her own mouth with her finger. What is with this person, is she Gian? The type who can't suppress a desire once it's ignited?
But even so, I've already pinched it with my fingers.
To make her clearly confirm that fact, I held the pinched candy out toward her.
"Like I said, look, I've already touched this—"
As I said that, the instant I thrust the candy out.
"Ham."
"Eh."
Like a fish snatching a lure in fly fishing.
Takanashi Mifuru's moist lips enclosed the candy inside. —Along with my fingertips.
"────"
She collected the candy as if licking it up with the tip of her tongue.
Then, just as I thought she pulled away making a strangely glossy chupo sound.
While staring at me somewhat provocatively from the front, she conveyed with just the shape of her lips.
<Thanks for the meal.>
Takanashi-san licked her own lips bewitchingly with the tip of her tongue.
"............"
............ ............Ah, I see.
So this is what "Brain getting fried" feels like.
I stood stunned, unable to move my fingertips which were faintly wet and cool even a millimeter.
—However.
"K, then, at our shop in ten minutes. Yeah... yeah. I'm looking forward to it too. See ya, Usa-kun."
I was pulled back to reality at once by Takanashi-san's subsequent call with her boyfriend. At the same time, I don't know for whose sake or what consideration it was, but I realized I had hurriedly wiped my fingertips with a disposable wet wipe from the supplies. ...Thinking back, that feels slightly rude in itself, but I don't really know what the correct response would have been either. At least what I know now is—Takanashi-san seemed to have zero interest in my fingertips or anything like that.
"So that's the deal, Banjō. Usa-kun is coming to pick me up in ten minutes. Fix that bed head—"
"No, why do I need to groom myself for Usa-kun?"
While retorting, I pressed down my hair with my hand wondering if I had bed head. Takanashi-san laughed "Shishishi" at that, then disappeared into the restroom to fix her makeup as well.
I saw her off, and stared at my fingertips again. ...Honestly, the feeling of floating had completely died down.
"...Something like this is no big deal to Takanashi-san, is it..."
Situations where you realize the "temperature difference" with others are always painful. Rather, to the extent that I got excited on my own, I now seemed like a helplessly dwarfed man to myself.
I wiped my fingertips strongly once more, and tossed the disposable wet wipe into the trash can.
"Alright, let's switch gears. First... right, candy refill."
Then, I remembered I had run out of Lemon flavor earlier. I fetched a new assortment pack from the back of the counter and poured them into the basket with a rattle. Earlier, I instantly thought "Sorry for taking the last Lemon flavor," but thinking about it carefully, the factor for the Lemon flavor depleting fast was probably Takanashi-san too.
"Ah, this is just like a little Dice Pick System."
Looking at the die-shaped candies, I muttered a light board game joke to myself and smiled bitterly.
A Dice Pick System is a system where you choose and use the dice most convenient for your current self from among multiple rolled dice.
The good thing about this is probably the point where luck elements are slightly mixed while using dice. In the part of "choosing," some room for intervention is left to the player side. Especially in the case of a format where everyone picks (drafts) from a common pool of dice, it's prominent. The die you wanted gets taken by the person in the previous turn, or vice versa. While being tossed about by luck, rejoicing and sorrowing over those tactics is irresistible. That's why............
I pinched a Lemon flavor from the massive amount of dice candies, and muttered.
"Well, no matter how much you want it, if it's already been picked by another player, it can't be helped, right?"
Who were those words directed at? I didn't really know myself.
But, the next moment—
"No, no."
—A hand suddenly extending from behind vividly snatched the Lemon candy from my hand.
I turned around in a panic. And there—
"You gotta seize what you want, right?"
—Stood a blond high school boy with looks that even I, of the same sex, would inadvertently admire.
"...Usa-kun."
"Yo, Tokiwa-kun."
He greeted me with an innocent smile, opening the hand opposite to the one holding the candy.
Takanashi-san's boyfriend—Itsuki Usa.
A beautiful young man whose existence was on too different a level from me, who scowled constantly, with every gesture being refreshingly cool.
As if averting my eyes from a sun that was too bright, I responded while instinctively looking away.
"Y-You're early, Usa-kun. Takanashi-san said it would take about another ten minutes..."
"Ah, somehow my LINE was acting up and there was lag. More importantly. She just ate only the Lemon flavor again, right? And, I bet in the form of snatching it from Tokiwa-kun."
The topic was returned to the original instantly. Moreover, that insight is strangely sharp too; he's really a high-spec person to the point it's annoying, as usual.
But honestly, as someone who had been projecting our situation onto the Lemon candy until just a moment ago, indulging in this topic with Usa-kun was awkward beyond belief. I tried to lightly brush it off while turning my back to him, pretending to have other work.
"Ah, well, yeah. But I was actually fine with any flavor so..."
Reaching that point, I remembered that I hadn't actually licked a candy yet. Right, where did I put the candy I was pinching earlier...
As I was fumbling in the pocket of my employee apron, Usa-kun continued the conversation.
"Tokiwa-kun, you don't have to hold back and do whatever Mifuru says."
"Hm? Ah, no, it wasn't really that big a deal..."
It seems there's a slight misunderstanding. I turned toward him to correct it. And—
"Here."
"Eh."
—At that instant, something was pressed against my lips. ...A candy?
Looking, Usa-kun was pressing a candy against my lips with his beautiful fingertips. While dumbfounded, I instinctively accepted it plop into my mouth. At the same time, I felt like I momentarily clamped Usa-kun's fingertip with my lips, but Usa-kun smiled refreshingly without seeming to care at all.
"Tasty?"
"Eh? Ah, y-yeah. T-Thanks..."
"Then that's good."
The blond young man smiling innocently like a child who succeeded in helping their parent. I was almost swallowed by that overwhelming "light." But, at the same time...
"See, told you, right?"
"Um... w-what was it?"
To me remaining dumbfounded, Usa-kun continued without exasperation.
"You gotta seize what you want."
"............"
I fell silent involuntarily. ...Usa-kun's clear eyes were a little scary right now.
Seize what you want.
It was a warm word pushing my back not to give up on love, and at the same time.
It felt like being ruthlessly cut down, saying there is no value in things you can't get your hands on.
But actually, there's no way to confirm what intention Usa-kun had in saying it. No, I don't want to confirm. In the end, I countered with a safe response as always.
"N-No way, the gestures of a popular guy are different after all. Doing this smoothly to anyone—"
"Ha? No, no, I wouldn't do that unless it's someone I'm seriously close with. Are you stupid?"
"............"
"More importantly, did anything new come in? Tokiwa-kun's recommendations are seriously always the best."
Saying it like it was nothing, Usa-kun walked toward the board game shelf. ...I see, I see.
(No, I'd fall for him, dammit!)
I knew it, but Usa-kun wasn't just a lady-killer. What is this natural people-pleaser? Overwhelming human power. The fact that it doesn't seem intentional makes it even worse. Because of that, conversely, I'm made to keenly realize my own "inadequacy." Or rather, the foolishness of pining for Takanashi-san is thrust before me.
...But well, more than that. More simply. More troublingly.
"Ah, actually, a new release Usa-kun would like just came in recently. Look, you like space themes, right?"
"Eh, for real?"
"Yeah. I was reading the manual until just now, and so far the feel is pretty good. Here, this."
"Oh, the artwork is already god-tier! I'm getting hyped!"
—I love this rival as a friend.
That is exactly why my romantic feelings must not be realized by anyone. Because that only births results that aren't good for anyone.
After blossoming into a board game discussion with Usa-kun for five minutes. Takanashi-san, finally returning from fixing her makeup, showered us with thorny words the moment she saw Usa-kun and me.
"Ah, Banjō is taking my boyfriend agaaain!"
"I am taking him."
"I am being taken."
While the two of us casually brushed Takanashi-san off, we continued checking the board game rules.
"But Tokiwa-kun, the penalty standard when this process overlaps..."
"Ah, certainly that pattern is possible too. That was a blind spot. ...Yeah, I guess I'll make a summary clarifying that area before putting it out in the shop."
"Eh, seriously? You're diligent as always, Tokiwa-kun. I respect you from the bottom of my heart."
"No, speaking of which, Usa-kun's point of view is what's impressive, or rather, to notice this in this short time..."
"Stop ignoring your girlfriend and flirting."
Takanashi-san finally started sulking. Usa-kun smiled wryly and called out "Sorry, sorry." Immediately, Takanashi-san responded "It's totally fine~" with a melting smile. ...Okay.
"I'm sorry too, Takanashi-san."
"Ah, Banjō does a burning dogeza."
"I demand clarification of the penalty standards here too!"
The difference in treatment between her boyfriend and other humanity was brutal. I tend to quickly evaluate Takanashi-san as a "Gal who treats everyone equally," but I might need to reconsider that slightly.
Takanashi-san snuggled up to Usa-kun and pulled on his upper arm to appeal.
"Hey Usa-kun, let's go already. I'm bored of board games."
I strictly condemned Takanashi-san acting clingy to her boyfriend.
"No, you haven't played enough to get bored, Takanashi-san. Taking advantage of the lack of customers today, didn't you just fiddle with your hair and nails the whole time?"
But Takanashi-san also glared back at me and countered strongly.
"I got bored watching Banjō. It's the same as watching a video of someone binge-eating a giant portion and feeling like throwing up yourself."
It was nasty that the metaphor was vaguely understandable. This person really, she's the type who has high intelligence despite having no knowledge. Well, I like that part too, though.
Watching me and Takanashi-san sparking at each other, Usa-kun chuckled.
"You guys get along well, as always."
"No, from where in that exchange does that impression come from?"
When I replied as if amazed, Usa-kun returned it smoothly like it was nothing.
"No, I've never been allowed to see Takanashi-san fiddling with her nails and stuff."
"..."
For a moment I was startled as if some cheating had been pointed out, but thinking about it carefully, isn't that obvious? I replied mixed with a sigh of 'good grief'.
"Well, since it's preparation to look good for Usa-kun, she wouldn't do it in front of Usa-kun."
"Ah, that's true too. Blind spot."
Usa-kun backed down easily. Well, naturally. Since it's actually the fact. To vent the irritation of being made uselessly agitated, I tossed the conversation to Takanashi-san.
"Takanashi-san, say something to—"
"............Heh?"
"? Takanashi-san?"
Looking, Takanashi-san had agitation floating on her face for some reason. And, how to put it...
(What was that expression just now. Shyness... and, also, anger? And at Usa-kun? But, why?)
With our dense association over these few months, I should have become able to read her emotions quite well... but that just now made absolutely no sense. Where in the current conversation is there an element to get angry at Usa-kun?
(Is it a maiden's heart-based story like she didn't want him to know she was preparing for Usa-kun? No, in that case, the one receiving the anger should be me...)
I really don't understand the situation. But I decided to apologize for the time being.
"S-Sorry Takanashi-san. That, well, maybe I lacked delicacy just now."
"Eh? ...Ah, yeah. Seriously, Banjō. That part of you, just that part."
"Y-Yes. Excuse me. I will be careful from now on."
"Umu, devote yourself to improvement."
"No, what master-disciple relationship is this?"
Usa-kun, who was watching the exchange between me and Takanashi-san, retorted with an amazed look. I responded with a wry smile.
"See, I'm knowledgeable about board games but weak in interpersonal skills."
"Really? I think Tokiwa-kun is super easy to talk to, and I have nothing but good feelings though."
"U-Usa-kun."
Oh stop, I love this person. Take me. But, as I was directing a maiden's gaze at Usa-kun, naturally Takanashi-san interfered.
"Nah, so stop taking my boyfriend, Banjō."
"I am not taking him. I just want to continue playing with Usa-kun forever and ever."
"Ah, same here, same here."
"No, my boyfriend is totally being taken!"
Making jokes like that, the three of us laughed together. And there, Usa-kun finally stood up as if giving up.
"Okay, me and Mifuru will get going soon. Tokiwa-kun is..."
"Ah, I have the usual closing duties, so don't worry about—"
"Yaaay, let's go let's go, Usa-kun. Hey, what are we gonna play?"
"No, sorry, I want you to worry at least a little bit."
"CLEAN-UP, THANKS, Banjō."
"An automated voice still has more emotion."
"Ah, Tokiwa-kun, if closing duties look tough, shall I help a bit?"
Regarding the matter of the boyfriend being too good a person on a level that doesn't match her.
"N-No, it's fine. Usa-kun, please go have a fun meal with your girlfriend as soon as possible."
"Yeah yeah, let's leave this place that smells like board games quickly, Usa-kun."
"Hey, you really said that about your own workplace."
"Ah, sorreeey, what I dissed just now as smelling like board games waaas, not the place but the employee~"
"Alriiight Takanashi-san come here, I'm going to do an 'Inst' of the 'Nail Peeling Game' now."
"Nooo, Banjō is scaaary."
"Whoa, wait, Mifuru, don't pull my arm like that. See ya, Tokiwa-kun!"
"Bye-bye, Banjō. Wait, ah, right! Give me a candy at the end!"
Turning back at the door, Takanashi-san urged me to throw her one. I sighed lightly, searched for a Lemon flavor from the refilled candies, and tossed it to her. Takanashi-san caught it, opened her hand to check the flavor, and...
"Hehe."
Smiling innocently at me for whatever reason she found happy. I responded by averting my eyes.
"Come on, why don't you hurry up and go."
"Wow, this shop has baaad vibes. Gonna give it one star later."
"Yes yes, do as you please."
"Ahaha, see ya, Banjō. ...Sorry for the wait, Usa-kun! Hey, what are we gonna eat?"
Frolicking happily, Takanashi-san pulled Usa-kun's hand and left the shop. Honestly, it was frustrating beyond belief. Beyond belief, but...
"............ ...Ah, dammit, she really has an unfair smile."
Being shown such happiness, as a person with feelings for her, I can't say anything anymore. Is this what a fan feels like when their favorite idol reports a happy marriage? Someday I'd like to ask Takeshi. ............
...Yeah. But well, if Takanashi-san is actually happy, there's nothing more to it.
Something like my romantic feelings, which aren't even worth a super chat to her, should be tossed somewhere.
Yes, somewhere...
"The love game doesn't start unless you roll the dice first, right?"
"............"
Suddenly, I remembered her words.
"...............But, well, if I'm going to 'toss' it anyway..."
Currently, there was only one die inside the dice tray on the table.
I slowly picked it up, suddenly recalled the result of the dice candy I gave her today—the result that symbolized me—laughed softly, and declared to God.
"If a 3 comes up, I confess. Anything else, I give up firmly."
That is a love ending with a 5 out of 6 probability. It was a flower fortune-telling with terrible odds. But the opponent has a boyfriend. Even that could be called too luxurious.
...Determined, I tossed the die into the tray.
Leaving an important life choice to luck is truly ridiculous. Normally, one should choose the conclusion themselves after deep thought and conflict.
But when it comes strictly to "Love," surely there is no "correct answer" anywhere.
No matter what I choose, I'll regret it anyway.
In that case, losing a bad bet by the discretion of the heavens feels somewhat more refreshing.
That is exactly like the board games that use dice.
What's important is surely not "being correct." It's "having no regrets."
Under my intense gaze, the die in the tray spun making a clattering sound.
Eventually, it stopped abruptly, and then—
"...So, that's how it comes out."
—I let out a large sigh at the ruthless prank of fate handed down by the God of Games.
First, to restore my spirits, I started by licking a candy of my favorite Cola flavor.
＊
A die-shaped Lemon candy where all six sides were composed of three circles, representing a "3".
Holding the pale yellow object up to the bright red sunset, Takanashi Mifuru was smiling happily.
Her lover, Usa, walking a little ahead, turned around. At the same time, Mifuru popped it into her mouth and floated a cute expression of bliss.
To such an appearance of hers, the blond beautiful young man asked with a slightly amazed face.
"Wait, did you like Lemon flavor that intensely, Mifuru?"
"Well, yeah. Ah, but since the roll was good this time, I feel even more hype."
"Roll? No no, what is a roll that influences the taste of candy?"
Interpreting it as being returned with a joke, Usa laughed karakara and started walking ahead.
But Mifuru remained stopped, traced the outcome of 3 with the tip of her tongue inside her mouth, and...
Along with the bashfulness of a maiden in love, she returned that answer in a small murmur.
"...A Suki-pi Number, maybe."
(T/N: This is modern Japanese "Gal" (Gyaru) slang. It is a cute version of Suki na Hito (the person I like/my crush))
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