Considering its target clientele, the little shop Lanaia liked was still rather quiet at this hour.
"Welcome. You're early today."
Behind the counter, the owner was busy preparing ingredients. His wife still remembered Fu Qian and greeted him warmly.
She had clearly been left with a strong impression of this oddly dressed customer.
Not to mention that tonight, he was wearing a metal headband as well.
"Pick any seat you like."
"Over there?"
Fu Qian glanced at Ji Liushuang.
She was looking around the little shop with interest and didn't seem to mind that the place chosen for their celebration was so small.
But that didn't mean she was used to making small talk with strangers sitting nearby.
"All right."
Without complaint, Ji Liushuang followed Fu Qian to the only small table and took a seat.
"Professor Lanaia seems to like this place?"
It was her first time here, but she'd clearly asked Jia Keke in detail about the visit to her.
Fu Qian wasn't surprised. He nodded.
"Judging by what's in her fridge, you're more likely to find her here than at her residence."
Seeing Fu Qian talk about the head of the Department of Punishment that way, Ji Liushuang covered her mouth and giggled.
"Would you like something to eat while you wait?"
The owner's wife had come over with a suggestion.
"Of course."
Before Ji Liushuang could say anything, Fu Qian took the menu.
"Order whatever you like."
"...Do you have any recommendations?"
"Unfortunately, this is only my second time here. The first time, that woman just dragged me into drinking all night."
"I actually thought the same thing at first..."
"You really wanted to drink?"
Fu Qian's expression turned solemn, and his voice grew stern.
"No, no... I never drink, actually."
Though it had been