"Since we've got a new employee, Dolph, I was thinking of hosting a social gathering in the backyard of the shop around noon tomorrow, our day off. Does that work for everyone?"

A week had passed since Dolph joined us, and he had officially started working as an employee. I thought it was a good opportunity to hold a little social event here at the shop.

Although Dolph was already able to chat normally with Lilia and Fia, I figured it wouldn't hurt to use this as a chance to relax and strengthen our camaraderie.

Unlike the somewhat awkward company gatherings in my previous world, this world's version should actually be enjoyable. Besides, I'm not exactly in a "boss" role here.

"I'm good with that," Lilia replied.

"Fia is fine too," Fia said cheerfully.

"Uh, well, I...," Dolph hesitated.

So, Lilia and Fia are on board, but what about Dolph? If the main guest can't make it, we could reschedule. Or maybe he just doesn't like this kind of thing?

"If you’ve got plans, how about the day after? Or do you just not like large groups drinking together?"

"Sorry, but I’ve promised to spend my day off entirely with my sister, Angel."

"………"

...That was unexpected. Well, everyone’s entitled to spend their days off how they want. But wait—does Angel even approve of this? He's not, like, secretly stalking her on her day off, is he?

"If you’re okay with it, why don’t you invite your sister along? I’ll make sure there’s some rare dishes prepared."

"Angel too? Is that really okay?"

"Of course. A few more people won't make a difference. Actually, the more, the merrier. Fia, if your mom’s free, could you invite her too?"

"Yes! Thank you, Tetsuya!"

"Alright. Angel shouldn't have plans tomorrow, but I’ll confirm with her right away. If she’s free, we’d love to join."

"Great! It’d be fantastic if both of you could come."

...Let’s just gloss over how naturally he knows his sister’s schedule.

After closing the shop and finishing the cleanup, Dolph confirmed he and his sister would attend. Fia said her mother should be able to join too since she’s off work tomorrow.

We’ll prep in the morning and then enjoy the afternoon together. Let’s make it a fun one!

"Days off are amazing!"

Today’s my day off. Days off are awesome! They’re the best! Woohoo!

...Ahem. Sorry, my excitement got a little out of hand. It’s been so long since I had a proper day off. While this world hasn’t been a grind like back home, it’s still great to have a day where I don’t have to worry about waking up early.

Oh, it’s already this late? Lilia’s always an early riser, so she’s probably up by now.

"Yo! Long time no see, Tetsuya!"

"...Long time no see, Lange."

When I opened my door and walked into the living room, there he was—Lange, the elf, sitting there like it was the most natural thing in the world.

"Good morning, Tetsuya. Lange came by earlier, so I let him in," Lilia explained.

"Morning, Lilia. Thanks for that."

Apparently, Lilia had let Lange in while I was sound asleep. Much appreciated.

"I heard from Lilia that things are going well. You even hired a new employee, right?"

"Yeah, thanks to you. How about you? No trouble with strange people tailing you or anything?"

"Nope, not this time. No one followed me or tried to mess with me."

Looks like no one’s been snooping around yet. But honestly, now that the shop’s been open for two weeks, it wouldn’t be surprising if someone started poking around soon.

"Since it’s been a couple of weeks, keep an eye out. It wouldn’t be unusual for someone to start tailing you. Be extra careful, alright?"

"Got it! I’ll be super careful!"

Lange may sound casual, but he’s a B-rank adventurer skilled in stealth and evasion. I’ll trust him on this.

"I was about to make breakfast. Want to join us?"

"Of course! The food you made last time was delicious, so I’ve been looking forward to it!"

"Glad to hear that. By the way, we’re holding a social gathering this afternoon for the new employee. Want to join us?"

"Sure! Lilia already told me about it, and I’d love to come!"

Looks like Lange will be joining us for Dolph’s welcome party. In that case, I’ll keep breakfast light.

"Here you go. Since we’ve got a big lunch planned, I kept it simple: smoked wild boar and vegetable consommé soup."

"Wow, it smells amazing!"

"This looks fantastic!"

I’d taken some smoked wild boar meat gifted by Roya, cut it into small pieces, and sautéed it with onions, asparagus, and potato-like vegetables from this world. Then I added water, instant consommé, and a dash of outdoor spices to finish.

"The unique flavor of the smoked wild boar goes perfectly with the consommé! And the vegetables soaked in the soup’s flavor are so tasty!"

"Yeah, I didn’t expect wild boar to taste this good! The spices really bring out the flavor. It’s great with bread, too!"

Not bad, if I do say so myself. Consommé soup pairs well with just about any meat or vegetable. It’s easy to make, warms you up, and is perfect for chilly mornings, especially when camping.

Alright, time to finish breakfast and get ready for the social gathering!