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The transition was finally complete. After hours of moving boxes and arranging the essentials, I stood inside Apartment 402, looking at the place that was now officially mine. Arata stood by the doorway, looking tired but satisfied.
"Well, Sayaka," Arata said, checking his watch. "Now that you've officially shifted into your new home, I should head back to my unit. You need some rest after such a long day."
I looked at him, feeling a sudden rush of gratitude. He had done everything for me—negotiated with the landlord, helped me shop, and carried the heavy boxes. I couldn't just let him walk away like that.
"Arata, wait," I said, stopping him. "Thank you so much. Truly. You've done so much for me today, and I... I want to give you a treat. Since it's my first night here and you helped me every step of the way, can we go out for dinner together tonight?"
Arata seemed surprised for a moment, but then a gentle smile appeared on his face. "Are you sure? It might be risky for you to be out in public."
"I'll be careful," I replied firmly.
A few moments later, we got ready and headed out. Arata led me to a small, hidden Izakaya tucked away in a narrow alley. As he pushed aside the Noren—the traditional fabric divider at the entrance—the sound of clinking glasses and the savory aroma of charcoal-grilled Yakitori welcomed us.
Instead of a grand hall, it was a cozy space with a narrow wooden counter and small booths. We found a quiet corner at the back. For the first time in years, I wasn't sitting in a VIP room of a five-star hotel. I was sitting on a simple wooden stool, obscured by the dim, warm light of the eatery.
We ordered some hot Ramen, golden Gyoza, and a plate of grilled skewers. As I took the first sip of the rich broth, I felt a sense of contentment I had never known before. We talked about the neighborhood, the best local shops, and how the Oya-san tends to his bonsai. Tonight, I wasn't a celebrity; I was just a neighbor, enjoying a meal with someone who cared for the real me.
As we walked back to the apartment building, the cool night breeze felt like a fresh beginning. We stood between doors 402 and 403.
"Thank you for the treat, Sayaka," Arata said with a nod. "Get some sleep. Your new life officially starts tomorrow."
I walked into my apartment and closed the door. I looked at the new bed we had set up earlier that afternoon. It wasn't as grand as my bed at the agency, but it was mine. I lay down on the comfortable mattress and fell into a deep, peaceful sleep, knowing that I was finally home.