Chapter 3 (1/2)

First Story – Let Me Listen to Your Lingering Regrets Part 3

The room was barely decorated but despite the simplicity, it evoked a cozy atmosphere.

There's an indoor plant in the corner of the room and on the wall hung a small, unsigned painting of a forest, giving off a relaxing vibe.

The floor was covered with a tufted carpet and at the center of the room lay a couch and a low table, which occupied most of the area.

The client was sitting on the soft couch, looking quite ill at ease. According to the intel from the Information Department, her name is s.h.i.+on Kisaragi, a ”former” high school student.

Although the file says that she's 16 years old, I didn't feel the aura of a high school girl from her. She's rather tall and pet.i.te, which was further emphasized by her bony physique.

Her bangs covered her face, masking her facial expression. Her figure looked pitiful; her body trembling in anxiety as she sat down on the couch.

Speaking of anxiety, I'm no different. Since it's my first time on the job, I feel extra nervous and tense.

”Now then.”

Sitting on the couch, Senpai spoke and started s.h.i.+on's interview.

”Ms. s.h.i.+on Kisaragi, you were caught in a traffic accident on the fourth Friday of the previous month, and died without receiving medical treatment. I think you've already been briefed but you're here because of your lingering regret. I'm s.h.i.+ndo and this is Nikaido, and we're here to help you resolve it to the best of our ability.”

”Thank you.” s.h.i.+on muttered with her head down.

”I know you're aware of this already but human souls plagued with lingering regrets won't be immediately sent to the heavenly world. When that happens, they become self-bound spirits or floating spirits and wander around the world. In order to avoid such incidents, you must accept that you're dead. Are you following so far?”

When she heard the word 'dead', s.h.i.+on's body shook like a frightened small animal.

”On that regard, I need you to tell us the details of the events in your life. You don't have to think too hard, just say whatever comes to mind. Think of it as something like an afterlife care service. We're lucky to be given this opportunity so feel free to rattle on as you please.”

After saying those words in a rather cool tone, Senpai gave s.h.i.+on a gentle smile.

”You know, I also feel anxious to have this conversation. Asking you to accept your death and to tell us about your life and lingering regrets, I know that it's impudent of us to do so. No matter how long I've been doing this job, I still can't get used to it. Since we're both nervous, how about we just carry on like this? That makes us even, don't you think?” Senpai added with an exaggerated shrug.

s.h.i.+on laughed a little in response. It seems like her anxiety has eased up a bit.

”And if you find it difficult to talk to a guy like me, Nikaido is here for you. I think you're probably around the same age so feel free to treat her as your friend.”

”Eh? I-I'll do my best!”

I was caught off guard so I mumbled offhandedly. s.h.i.+on looked at me dubiously.

”Sorry. She's a newbie. She's just tensed like a frozen penguin. But don't worry, I'll be here to guide her properly.”

”I see…” s.h.i.+on responded with a smile.

”T-That's right. I may not be very competent but I'll do my best to help you.”

s.h.i.+on giggled. I felt embarra.s.sed but at the same time, my nervousness faded away. Could it be that Senpai said that purposely to help me too?

I discovered one thing. This girl is cute when she smiles.

Quite different from her sheepish demeanor, it's a smile that brightens up the atmosphere.

If she always smiles, she'll turn into an even more charming girl.

”So, s.h.i.+on, are you ready to get back to the main topic?” Senpai asked while scratching his head.

”About what's your lingering regret?”