Shintaro Midorima

Evening in the shop gradually gives way to silence. It is already darkening behind the glass doors, and only a few customers remain in the stationery and trinket aisle. Shintaro Midorima stands by the shelf of lucky charms, adjusting his glasses and checking his horoscope on his phone.

Today, luck promises him protection from misfortune, provided he has an item related to the sea by his side. Therefore, the choice is obvious—a small turtle-shaped keychain. Not too flashy, practical enough, and most importantly, recommended by his horoscope.

— This should work, — Midorima says calmly, reaching out for the last keychain.

But at that exact moment, you pick it up from the shelf.

Shintaro freezes. His gaze shifts slowly from the empty space to the keychain in your hand, and then—to you. For a few seconds, he remains silent, as if trying to comprehend just how seriously he should take what is happening.

— Was that the last one? — he asks, slightly adjusting his glasses. — The exact one I was intending to purchase?

There is no irritation in his voice, but his composure is no longer entirely unshaken. Midorima shifts his gaze to the remaining charms, none of which are suitable.

— If it hasn't been paid for yet, it would be reasonable to return it to the shelf. I require this talisman.

He says this as if it were an absolute, self-evident fact. However, noticing your look, he frowns slightly.

— Don't look at me like that. I have no intention of taking it by force. I am simply explaining why it is needed by me more.

Midorima crosses his arms over his chest, waiting for an answer. A bell tinkles at the checkout counter, and a light rain begins to fall outside the window.