"Heave-ho, heave-ho...."
The watermelon wasn't particularly large, but the girl's frame was genuinely small, and combined with extended periods of staying indoors, even walking a few steps while holding the watermelon tired her out.
Her slender arms had hardly any strength at all.
However, this scene, as witnessed by outsiders, was made incredibly adorable by Misaki Saki holding the watermelon.
Who's daughter is this, so good and understanding to help buy groceries at such a young age?
And carrying such a big watermelon at that!
It must be said, Misaki Saki's appearance really made it impossible to tell just how old the girl was!
.....
The morning sun slowly rose,
the roadside scenery seemed to be equipped with a natural filter. Though it gradually receded into the distance, the patterns on the tree trunks remained clear.
The boy took firm, steady steps, jogging rhythmically on the streets.
The breeze blowing in his face felt refreshing, and after a steady ten-minute run, Haruka Yuzan finally slowed down, regulating his breathing as he admired the scenery along Tokyo's streets,
reminiscent of a scene straight out of an anime, the sounds of car horns in his ears, a 'No Entry' sign placed nearby,
while the first train of the morning rumbled by on the tracks.
Today, Haruka Yuzan's running route was different from usual; he headed towards a more secluded part of Shinjuku Ward.
He stopped walking, not exactly sure where he had ended up, and could only return the same way he came... Experience more on m-v|l e'-novelhall.net
It seemed as if he remembered something; Haruka Yuzan summoned the virtual reality panel,
[Landlord Information: Haruka Yuzan]
[Physical Strength: 8]
[Intelligence: 8]
[Charm: 9]
[Beginner Skills X1 (To be extracted)]
Well, best to head home and try out the new skill with Mrs. Onodera and Misaki Saki.
Not for any particular reason, just out of pure curiosity...
He had just accompanied Reiko Onodera and the others to the supermarket before going his separate ways.
He wondered if they had arrived home by now—or they should be... almost home, right?
.......
"Heave-ho, heave-ho! I'm exhausted!"
On the neighborhood street, Misaki Saki struggled along with a plastic bag in hand.
Inside the clear bag was a small watermelon, which seemed quite a challenge for the girl.
She walked down the street with the bag swinging in her little hands.
Haruka Yuzan, that guy, he totally knew we'd have to carry watermelons, so he said he was going out for a run! I'm dead tired!!!"
Chiba Shimizu also carried a watermelon, but compared to the little girl beside her, she seemed much more at ease with a carefree demeanor.
A slight difference in Physical Strength Level is fatal, the difference between passing and failing.
"Why don't I take the watermelon? I'm not tired."
On the other side, Reiko Onodera offered help with a hint of concern. She had planned to carry both watermelons while letting the two girls carry the vegetables and meat, making it easier for them.
But, after paying, Chiba Shimizu and Misaki Saki were already waiting, each holding a watermelon...
"No need! I'm okay!"
Hearing the offer, Misaki Saki quickly shook her head in refusal and, to prove her point, raised the watermelon to her chest with her delicate arms. However, she couldn't maintain the pose for even two seconds before the watermelon dropped back down again,
Her insufficient Physical Strength Level of five could only support her posturing for a moment,
"See, I... *pant*... I told you I was fine... *pant*..."
As she spoke, she gasped for air, her cute face turning a bit rosy from the exertion.
Mrs. Onodera's regular contributions were noticed by everyone, not only did she take care of cooking and cleaning, but sometimes she even volunteered to do the laundry.
This is also why, when everyone found out about Reiko Onodera's upcoming birthday, they were all so intent on making it special.
Those who treat the world gently will always find the world treats them gently in return...