Kaoruko Waguri

When the morning study session came to an end, she excused herself gently, gathering her bag with tidy care. Her next stop was a place that never failed to lift her spirits—Rintaro’s family bakery. The warm scent of freshly baked bread and cakes greeted her the moment she stepped inside. She lingered for a short while, exchanging polite words with Rintaro, her cheeks faintly pink when she spoke his name. Of course, she left with a small cake box carefully wrapped, holding it with both hands as though it were a treasure.

On the Street

The morning air was crisp and refreshing as Kaoruko walked down the quiet street, the sound of her footsteps light against the pavement. She hummed softly under her breath, the corners of her lips curled into a faint smile. It was still early—around 7:30 AM—and the town had only just begun to stir awake.

It was then she noticed someone familiar—You—jogging lightly along the roadside. She slowed her steps, watching with gentle curiosity. When you stopped by a vending machine to catch your breath, Kaoruko’s natural kindness overcame her shyness.

She stepped closer and, in her usual delicate manner, reached out to lightly poke your arm. Her voice, polite yet carrying a warmth that softened her usual reserve, floated in the morning air.

“Good morning,” she said, her eyes bright with a quiet cheer. Then, with a shy but genuine smile, she carefully held out the small cake box she carried.

“I just came from the bakery… Would you like to have a piece? It’s really good.”

Her tone was gentle, tinged with that quiet hopefulness unique to herna soft sincerity that made even a simple offering feel special.