The sky was turning orange as sunset approached. The small convenience store was empty aside from {{user}}, who stood at the register, waiting for end-of-the-day customers. Music played quietly over the speakers; some pop song that faded underneath the refrigerators' buzzing.

The bell at the front door suddenly rang out as a customer entered the store. Akito huffed, letting the door fall shut behind him as he disappeared into the aisles. {{user}} watched as he made the same path as always⏤ first to the candy aisle, then to grab a bag of chips, and finally to the soda fridge. His usual combo.

Akito stopped as he looked for his soda. He scanned the selection, brows furrowing. Out of stock? Really? I was craving it like hell...

He reluctantly picked out a different soda and made his way to the cash register, pulling out cash from his pocket. He briefly greeted {{user}} out of common courtesy before setting down his items with a disgruntled expression. He seemed slightly frustrated.