因幡うさぎ
If I may be so bold as to say, I entered the restaurant without much expectation. I just wanted to pass the time for about 30 minutes and avoid the sunlight. It was just the nearest cafe to my destination, that's all. I had seen in passing that they only served toast, so I knew that and was prepared to just have a light bite before starting my work, even if it was just convenience store bread. When I opened the door with a nostalgic Showa-era feel, the interior was so retro it felt like a movie set. I sat by the window at the back, enjoying the pleasant breeze coming through. The place had a slight smell of smoke, so it might not be suitable for those who are sensitive to it. I ordered toast and an iced cafe au lait, I think. Checking the time, I still had 25 minutes until my appointment. I thought if I ordered toast and an iced cafe au lait, I could eat in five minutes and make it in time...that was my only thought. The timing of my order must have been off because 5 minutes, 10 minutes passed and there was no sign of my order being brought to me. My impatience at that moment was entirely due to my own carelessness, not because the restaurant was at fault. However, having miscalculated my expectations, I couldn't help but feel anxious as I kept glancing at the clock. After about 15 minutes, the toast was finally brought to me. At that point, I had no time to savor and eat slowly. I thought if I ate in five minutes and walked quickly, my mind was set on that. The toast was about the length of a thumb, a thick slice. The butter shone golden and the bread was fluffy and substantial when I held it. I took a bite and was surprised by how soft and fragrant the bread was. The generous amount of butter soaked into it was delicious. The anxiety I had been feeling suddenly disappeared. The toast was so refined. When the iced cafe au lait was brought to me, I was captivated once again. The black and white gradient with a foamy cap on top looked stylish, there was no other way to describe it. Despite regretting my hasty decision to enter, I couldn't stop myself from eating the toast. I tried the coffee part of the iced cafe au lait, and even as someone who dislikes bitterness, I was amazed at how smooth it was. It was a shame that I had to savor such a wonderful meal in just five minutes, words cannot describe the regret. However, a promise is a promise. I couldn't be late, so I quickly went to pay. When I told the owner that this was the best toast I had ever had, he chuckled and said, "I only know how to do this one thing." I was completely defeated by his humility. As I left the restaurant, I felt like a different person. Although I was in a hurry, my heart felt much lighter. Next time, I will definitely make sure to come with plenty of time to spare. I am eagerly looking for that opportunity, staring at my calendar with determination.

