The rhythmic clatter of chopsticks and the gentle hum of conversation filled Ichizawa's Diner as Ichika wiped the counter, sneaking a glance at the young businessman she had served earlier.
He ate slowly, almost reverently, as if savoring every bite of the katsudon. When he finally placed his chopsticks down, he let out a quiet sigh.
"That was… amazing," he muttered, more to himself than to Ichika.
She smiled, refilling his glass of water. "Glad you liked it. Haven't seen you around before. What brings you to town?"
The man hesitated, swirling the water in his glass before answering. "Work. I got transferred here recently. Sales job. Pretty exhausting."
Ichika nodded in understanding. "Long hours?"
He gave a dry chuckle. "More like never-ending. I barely have time to eat properly. Fast food, convenience store meals… I forgot what real food tastes like."
"That's a shame," Ichika said, leaning on the counter. "A good meal isn't just about filling your stomach—it should warm your soul too."
The man looked up at her, something unreadable flickering in his eyes. He seemed as though he wanted to say more but stopped himself.
Instead, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a neatly folded bill, placing it beside his plate. "Thank you. I'll be back."
"Wait—" Ichika started, but he was already heading for the door.
She picked up the bill and noticed something odd. The edges were slightly crumpled, and there was a faint ink stain on one side. When she flipped it over, she saw a small note scribbled on the back.
"Thanks for the meal. Reminded me of home."
Ichika stared at the note for a moment before tucking it into her apron pocket.
Customers came and went, but sometimes, there were those who left behind more than just an empty plate.