Chapter 7 - Street

The bar they entered was nestled among a vibrant street full of other establishments, each showing off its unique ambiance at night. As Ryu and Yuka strolled through the lively crowd, they observed people lingering outside the various bars, engrossed in conversations, puffing on cigarettes, or quietly contemplating whether it was time to call it a night. The bar was just ahead, and Ryu gestured to the left, pointing out the entrance of the bar. With a shy expression, Yuka thanked him as he courteously held the door open for her.

Upon stepping inside, Yuka discovered a surprisingly relaxed atmosphere that contrasted with the bar's facade. The majority of the tables were occupied, with individuals engaged in hushed conversations that exuded an aura of intimacy. It was a refreshing change from the typical rowdy bar scene where people simply sought to drown their sorrows in alcohol. Ryu surveyed the room, scanning for a suitable place to sit, while Yuka mirrored his gaze. After a brief moment, she suggested sitting at the bar, to which Ryu readily agreed. They made their way towards the bar counter, securing adjacent seats. Ryu effortlessly removed his jacket and draped it over the back of his chair, settling in comfortably.

Ryu frequently goes to this bar whenever he found himself having a hard time working on his ideas and creativity, which seemed to be a common occurrence for him. He was particularly fond of the establishment's relaxed ambiance and the profound conversations that ensued among the customers after they had indulged in a few drinks. "The coffee they serve here is exceptional," Ryu remarked, breaking the silence. Yuka nodded in agreement, inhaling the rich scent of coffee that permeated the air. The bar initially served only alcoholic beverages, but due to popular demand, the management decided to expand their offerings to include coffee as well. "Would you like to try their coffee?" Sensing her interest, he leaned closer to the bar and called over the bartender. "Excuse me, could we please have two iced americanos?" he requested. The bartender acknowledged their order and set to work, crafting the refreshing beverages.

Curiosity piqued, Yuka decided to get into Ryu's nocturnal lifestyle. "Are you always up this late?" she asked, taking a sip of her coffee, her eyes filled with genuine intrigue. Ryu momentarily glanced at his phone before tucking it away, ensuring his focus remained on Yuka. "Most of the time, yes. Why do you ask?" he responded, genuinely interested in her perspective. "Well, I've never really met a musician before," Yuka admitted, momentarily forgetting that her cousin, Nato, was also a musician. She continued, "It surprises me how distinct your lifestyle is compared to that of salaried workers." Ryu considered her observation, realizing that their lifestyles were not as dissimilar as one might assume. 

"You know, being a musician, the difference between my creative brain and everyday activities isn't as huge as you might think," Ryu explained. "The big difference for me is that my brain never takes a break without my say-so." Ryu continued, "Even when I'm just chilling in a bar or taking a casual stroll, my mind is always thinking about how to incorporate the sounds and things around me into my music."

Yuka, intrigued, asked, "Isn't that tiring?" Ryu chuckled and replied, "Well, it can be from time to time." He paused for a moment, reflecting on the question. "But you know, it's also what keeps me inspired and alive. It's like a never-ending puzzle, always searching for the perfect pieces to fit into my compositions. So, even though it can be exhausting, I wouldn't trade it for anything else." They both shared a smile as they continued to drink their coffee and share stories. 

The following morning, Ryu woke up relatively early in the afternoon. He went to the refrigerator, yearning for a refreshing gulp of water before proceeding to take a shower. In a rush, he swiftly gulped down the contents of a water bottle, feeling instantly refreshed by the cool liquid enlivening his senses. With his clothes and towel draped over his shoulder, Ryu approached the Bathroom door. To his surprise, Yuka emerged from the door, causing him to startle slightly. "Hey," Yuka greeted him with a warm smile. "Hey," Ryu answered, his response tinged with a hint of awkwardness. To diffuse the tension in the air, Yuka said, "I washed your jacket and it's currently drying." Ryu expressed his gratitude, though he added, "You didn't have to do that." Nevertheless, Ryu stepped into the bath, his mind now preoccupied with the embarrassing incident from the previous night.

Once inside, Ryu closed the door behind him, and leaned on the vanity, his forehead pressed against the cool surface of the mirror. The memory of the awkward encounter from the previous evening flooded his mind.

As Ryu and Yuka had settled into the coffee shop last night, he suddenly realized that he had left his cigarettes in his jacket pocket, which Yuka happened to be wearing. He asked her if she could check the pocket for his cigarettes, and as she rummaged through it, she unexpectedly pulled out a tissue and a condom. Their eyes met, and both individuals shared a moment of surprise, with Yuka unwittingly holding the peculiar items in the air. Ryu found himself as baffled as she was, wondering how those items had found their way into his jacket. Surprised and slightly embarrassed, Yuka handed Ryu the items, her actions betraying a mix of emotions. As Ryu received them, his face flushed with both embarrassment and confusion, causing him to ponder his thoughts silently. Suddenly, a memory resurfaced in his mind, and he exclaimed, "Wait, hold on, it's not what it seems like," Ryu quickly interjected, his tone reflecting uncertainty as to why he felt the need to explain himself to Yuka. Nevertheless, he pushed forward, determined to provide some clarity. "Tomo and I were waiting for Nato on the street, and this worker distributing freebies approached us. They handed us these tissues." Ryu vividly recalled the encounter, realizing that amidst their engrossing conversation, he and Tomo had accepted the freebies without giving them a second thought, absentmindedly tucking them away in their pockets.

Yuka burst into laughter, her voice filling the air, and replied "We passed by that same street after dinner, and someone attempted to hand us those tissues too." Ryu experienced a surge of relief, grateful that he didn't have to explain himself like a misunderstood deviant. "Well, aren't they just a peculiar pair?" Yuka teased playfully, as she laughs. Ryu's embarrassment resurfaced, causing a flush of crimson to creep across his cheeks. Succumbing to the humor of the situation, they both laughed.

As the laughter settled, Ryu and Yuka found themselves diving into a delightful exchange of amusing and embarrassing stories. The conversation flowed endlessly. With each story shared, their initial awkwardness melted away, replaced by a warm and genuine connection. It was like they stumbled upon a hidden treasure chest filled with laughter and understanding, forming a bond that was equal parts comforting and thrilling.