After hearing Shingetsu's order, Tatsuki lowered his eyes without a word, but anyone could clearly see how badly his hands were trembling.
Mushroom rice and grilled fish were Hashirama's and Tobirama's favorite foods, and they were also Tatsuki's specialties.
"Those aren't on the menu..."
Tatsuki's head swam. He forced a stiff smile and stammered, struggling to get the words out, hoping to send the two of them away. But his boss, Auntie Sweet, would have none of it. That was no way to run a business.
"Tatsuki boy, how can you turn customers away?"
She slapped the counter angrily, reminding him not to forget his professional obligations. But Tatsuki could not take any of it in. Mortified, he did not even dare lift his head. His mind in chaos, he seized on another excuse to try to send them away.
"But we don't have the ingredients..."
"Don't worry, I've already got them ready!"
Momoka poked her head out of the kitchen with a grin, carrying a large bag of ingredients. She had prepared mushrooms, rice, and all kinds of seasonings in advance. Not only that, she had even gathered all the pots, bowls, and utensils he would need.
"But, I... how did you..."
Tatsuki froze completely. He finally realized that they had planned all of this. Shingetsu, Momoka, and Auntie Sweet exchanged smiles. Before he could say anything more, the impatient Auntie Sweet shoved him straight into the kitchen.
Hashirama Senju could not sit still. His breath caught in his throat, and he barely dared breathe. Embarrassed and bewildered, he looked ready to bolt at any moment.
Turning his head stiffly, Hashirama looked at Shingetsu, who had remained perfectly composed, and pleaded quietly:
"Shingetsu, why don't we come back another day?"
"You're not leaving!"
Shingetsu slapped the table imperiously and