Original Stories Fan Fiction ❯ Just Another Day ❯ Volume Seven, Chapter Forty-One: Business Gamble ( Chapter 41 )

Business Gamble

-Mai-Pai-

Chiko is like a daughter to me. I want to see her go far. I hired her two years ago. She's like a dream.

Which is why I want to try something different today.

“Chiko-san,” I said.

“Yes?” she asked at her desk. I looked at her, smiling.

“Why don't you work in the front today?” I suggested. She froze and looked up at me.

“What?” she asked. “But…”

“It's okay,” I said. “You can't do it. I have confidence in you.” She tried to say something but nothing came out. I gave her a gentle smile.

“It will be fine,” I said. “Just come to the back if you have questions.” Chiko closed her mouth.

“I will fill out the paperwork,” she said. “You go out and deal with the shop.” She finally bowed her head.

“Alright,” Chiko said. I pumped my fist in the air.

“Good luck,” I said. She nervously laughed. This was going to take some work.

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-Soon-

I hate having nothing to do around the house. I'm just… bored. I don't know to do with myself.

“What's the matter?” Be asked me the other day. I shrugged and shook my head.

“There's nothing to do around here,” I said.

“So you're bored?” Be asked.

“Yes!” I said. Was I that obvious? I noticed her smiling at me.

“What?” I asked.

“Have you thought about getting a job?” Be asked.

“No…” I said, blinking.

“Why not?” she asked. Honestly, I couldn't answer. I put up my hands in a shrug.

“Well, what are your skills?” Be asked. I blinked at first.

“Skills?” I asked.

“What can you do?” she asked.

“Hunting, scouting, um… um…” I said. Be frowned at me.

“Oh! Cleaning and fixing things!” I added.

“Have you tried cooking?” she asked.

“Huh?” I asked. Be kind of shrugged at me.

“I mean, it couldn't hurt,” she said. “Everyone should learn.”

So here I am in the kitchen. I was going to start small. We weren't going to have a feast. Maybe some rice balls? Nah, too simple. I dug through my brain. Come on! Think!

Only one thing came to mind.

“Croquettes,” I said. I let Be know what I wanted to do.

“Okay, I'll help you shop for what you need,” she said. The ingredients sat on the counter. I took a breath.

“Okay…” I said. I got right to work.

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-Mai-Pai-

Chiko's a natural at this. I might have her take over when I retire. I paused at my desk. Why would I be thinking that?

I shook my head as I finished the paperwork. Maybe I will have her cover the shop on weekends. Yeah. That sounds like an idea. She'll get a pay raise too. As for me, I finished the paperwork for the morning. I guess I could go for an early lunch.

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-Soon-

Well. They look okay. It was a struggle at first. I did my best to stay faithful to the recipe. It felt like being talked down to. Still, I think I did a good job.

Only one way to see.

I picked up a croquette and took a bite. Hm… Not bad. I guess I could get Be, Jin, and Mai-Pai try them. I guess I could get used to this cooking thing.

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