~~ • ~~
I was still at my parents' house.
My siblings were still here as well.
The house felt much livelier than usual.
But as always—
I stayed seated on the porch.
Relaxing.
Enjoying the summer air of the countryside, which was far more pleasant than the city.
The breeze was gentle.
The heat wasn't sweltering.
From a distance, the chirping of summer insects mingled with the sound of the television from inside the house.
Beside me sat a cup of coffee.
I reached for it.
Just as I was about to take a sip—
Bzzzt.
My phone vibrated.
I took a sip of my coffee anyway.
Bitter, with a hint of sweetness.
Then, I set the cup back down beside me.
I reached into my pocket.
And pulled out my phone.
A name flashed on the screen.
[ Bardy Louis ]
"Hm..."
Looks like a job was coming.
I answered the call.
"Yeah?"
"Morning, Itsuki."
"Yeah, morning."
I leaned back comfortably.
"What is it? A new job?"
I guessed right away.
"Yeah."
A soft chuckle came through the line.
