Oshi no Ko: The Maestro

Chapter 19: Shadowed Pursuit

In the heart of Shibuya, Tokyo, the afternoon sun cast a warm glow on the bustling streets. Amidst the lively crowd, Hiroshi sat at a corner table in a quaint bar cafe, sipping a cup of aromatic coffee.

Hiroshi leaned back in his chair, casually observing the passersby through the cafe's large window. He watched as people scurried along like tiny ants on the busy streets of Shibuya, each lost in their own world.

Taking another sip of his coffee, Hiroshi smirked as he noticed a group of tourists huddled together, trying to decipher a map. "Ah, the classic Shibuya 'lost in translation' moment," he mumbled to himself, his lips curling into a smirk.

A couple walked by, engrossed in a lively conversation, their animated gestures catching Hiroshi's attention. He chuckled softly, imagining what they might be discussing. "Probably debating where to have dinner tonight," he mused, his imagination running wild.

As Hiroshi continued to observe the lively scene outside the cafe's window, lost in his own thoughts, the waiters at the quaint bar cafe started to notice that he had been sitting at the corner table for quite some time. He appeared lost in contemplation, occasionally sipping his coffee but mostly staring into the distance with a slightly distant expression on his face.

Kenta, one of the attentive waiters, leaned over the counter and whispered to his colleague, Emi, "Hey, have you noticed that guy sitting over there for a while now? Do you think he's okay?"

Emi glanced over at Hiroshi, her brows furrowing with concern. "Yeah, he does look like he's been here for quite some time. Maybe he's waiting for someone? Or perhaps he's lost in thought."

Kenta nodded, feeling the need to check on their customer. "You're right. I'll go and see if everything is alright."

As Kenta was about to approach Hiroshi to check on him, the cafe's entrance bell chimed with the arrival of a new customer. A burst of energy entered the space as Ruby walked in, her phone pressed to her ear. She was talking animatedly to someone on the other end, making it clear that she was going to meet them at the cafe.

"Okay, okay, meet me there then! We can totally plan our Shibuya adventure! See you in a few!" Ruby exclaimed with excitement, ending the call as she slipped her phone into her bag.

Kenta, momentarily distracted by Ruby's infectious energy, decided to let her get settled before approaching Hiroshi. Ruby bounced over to a nearby table and sat down, her enthusiasm apparent as she eagerly scanned the menu. Emi approached her with a warm smile, ready to take her order.

"Welcome! Are you ready to order, miss?" Emi asked, matching Ruby's vibrant energy.

Ruby grinned back, her eyes still shining with excitement. "Absolutely! I'll have your signature iced matcha latte and a slice of cheesecake, please!"

Emi took down Ruby's order with a smile, impressed by the young woman's exuberance. "One signature iced matcha latte and a slice of cheesecake coming right up! Enjoy your time here in Shibuya," Emi replied cheerfully, jotting down the order on her notepad before heading back to the counter.

While the barista started preparing Ruby's order, Hiroshi said something to Emi. She walked back to Ruby's table, holding the tray with the iced matcha latte and cheesecake.

"Here's your order, and I have some good news for you," Emi said, a hint of excitement in her voice. "Your drink and cheesecake have already been paid for by the gentleman sitting at the corner table."

Ruby looked a bit surprised but then a smile spread across her face. "Oh, really? That's so sweet of him! Please pass on my thanks to him."

Emi nodded, delighted by the encounter. "Of course! I'll let him know. It seems like he's been enjoying his time here as well. If you need anything else, just let me know."