“…So I thought we’d celebrate, but are you really okay with going to the usual place?”

After successfully completing the first week of the shop’s opening, I suggested going out for a slightly fancy dinner. However, both of them insisted that the same inn restaurant from last time was good enough.

“Well, it’s just been a week. There’s no need to overdo it. Besides, the food here is inexpensive yet delicious.”

“Exactly, Tetsuya! And we just had some fancy meat recently. Too much indulgence isn’t good!”

...Looks like the ladies in my shop are quite practical. And as Fia pointed out, we just enjoyed the luxurious Danama Bear meat gifted to us by Rizac, the adventurer’s guild master. Overindulgence wouldn’t be appropriate.

“You’re right. Let’s stick with your suggestion. But in exchange, make sure to eat as much as you want!”

So, we ended up back at the inn where I used to stay. By the way, I informed Fia’s mom yesterday that we’d be eating out together after closing the shop. I also took the chance to invite her to work with us since we’re hiring, but unfortunately, she turned me down. Quite the shame.

“Excuse me, ma’am. Do you have room for three?”

“Oh, welcome, Tetsuya! Of course, we do.”

“Fia, welcome back!”

“Hi, Albera! It’s been a while!”

Both the proprietress and Albera were as cheerful as ever. It seems Fia, who’s been here a few times now, has grown quite close to Albera. Watching the two of them holding hands and smiling at each other is heartwarming.

“Huh? Tetsuya?”

“Oh, Roya. You guys are here too?”

As I was wondering where to sit, I noticed some familiar faces at a table.

“Yeah, we made some decent coin today, so we’re having a little celebration. That place you introduced us to—it’s affordable and the food’s great, so we come by occasionally.”

Apparently, they’ve been frequenting this inn ever since I recommended it.

“Meeting both Albera and Fia tonight—today must be my lucky day!”

...Nicole hasn’t changed a bit. Honestly, I’m worried about her in so many ways.

“Looks like there’s an open table right next to you. Mind if we sit here?”

“Of course not.”

“Roya, Fal, Nicole—long time no see. I think the last time was when we worked that escort job together. Thanks for dropping by my shop as well. Let me take the seat next to you.”

“L-Lilia-san! Of course! Please!”

“It’s an honor that you remember my name!”

...Why is their attitude toward her so completely different from mine? Well, I guess I prefer the casual way they talk to me anyway.

We took the adjacent table and ordered drinks and food. I decided to treat myself to a drink since we worked hard this week. Just one, though—tomorrow is another busy day, and the others aren’t drinking.

“To a job well done this week! Cheers!”

“Cheers!”

First, we toasted at our own table. Honestly, these two really worked hard this week.

“Ahhh! Nothing beats a drink after work!”

The pleasure of a post-work drink seems universal, no matter the world. If only the drink were colder and of slightly better quality, it’d be perfect.

“The food here really is delicious.”

“It’s so tasty!”

As expected, the stews and grilled skewers at this place are amazing. While I think the food I cook is pretty good, it’s also nice to enjoy restaurant meals from time to time.

“Your shop seems to be doing well, Tetsuya. On the first day, there was quite a line, and even yesterday, when I passed by, the place was packed.”

“Thanks to you, things are going smoothly for now. I appreciate you coming by on opening day.”

“Not at all! The items you sell are so affordable and convenient—they’ve been a lifesaver!”

“Yeah, taking a break at lunchtime is so much easier now. Starting a fire and making that instant soup with some warmed cheese and dried meat—it’s a game-changer.”

“And that blue tarp? Perfect for dismantling monsters.”

“I’m glad they’re proving useful.”

It seems the products we sell are really making a difference for Roya and his team.

“Um, Lilia-san! May I ask you some questions?”

“Of course. In return, I’d love to hear your thoughts on our shop’s products and our service. And as I mentioned before, no need to be so formal with me.”

“No, you’re a senior adventurer—there’s no way I could be casual!”

For them, having a former B-rank adventurer like Lilia share her stories is a rare opportunity. Meanwhile, we can gather customer feedback, so it’s mutually beneficial. Coming here occasionally with this group doesn’t sound like a bad idea.

“Hey, long time no see! I heard your new shop’s been doing great. Even the folks staying here at the inn are talking about it.”

“Oh, thanks! By the way, our newly launched instant soup works well as a seasoning too—please give it a try.”

The inn’s burly cook approached us. Despite his rugged appearance, he serves incredibly delicious dishes like this stew.

“What? That outdoor spice of yours was already amazing. I’ll definitely buy some and try it!”

“Thank you very much!”

While enjoying the food, I spent a pleasant time chatting with Roya’s team and the staff here. Work is important, but moments like these, where you can relax, are equally vital.

That said, it’s only been a week since the shop opened, and tomorrow I’ll be conducting interviews for new staff. I’ll need to keep up the effort!