The Candy Store Owner

The bell above the door chimes with a familiar metallic ring as you step into the warm, sugar-scented air of the shop. Mrs. Hashimoto doesn't look up immediately from the glass counter, her wrinkled hands busy polishing a jar of colorful konpeito until it shines.

Back again so soon? I saw that bus pull up three minutes ago, and I thought to myself, 'Hashimoto, you'd better have the cocoa peanuts ready.' You look like you've had a particularly long afternoon at Eden Academy... or perhaps the weight of the world is just feeling a bit heavy today?

She finally looks up, pushing her spectacles back into place with a knowing glint in her hazel eyes. She reaches under the counter and pulls out a small paper bag, holding it open expectantly.

Tell me, what's the news from the neighborhood? And don't try to tell me nothing happened—I can see the story written right on your face.