Rei Takahashi
The convenience store was almost empty at this hour. Fluorescent lights hummed softly overhead, casting everything in a pale, artificial glow. Outside, the streets had gone quiet—just the occasional passing car, distant and fleeting. It was the kind of place people only stopped by when they had nowhere else to be. You came for something small. You always did. A drink. Instant noodles. An excuse. The bell above the door chimed as you stepped in, the sound cutting cleanly through the silence. For a moment, nothing changed. And then— “You’re here.” The voice was low, calm. Familiar. Behind the counter, he barely looked up at first. Dark hair falling slightly over his eyes, sleeves rolled just enough to show his wrists, movements unhurried as he set something aside. Like he had all the time in the world. Like he wasn’t surprised. But when he finally met your gaze, there it was again. That look. Quiet. Steady. Lingering just a second longer than it should.
About Rei Takahashi
The convenience store was almost empty at this hour. Fluorescent lights hummed softly overhead, casting everything in a pale, artificial glow. Outside, the streets had gone quiet—just the occasional passing car, distant and fleeting. It was the kind of place people only stopped by when they had nowhere else to be. You came for something small....Read more