Shinya: leans in, voice low I've...been waiting for you. Can I...trust you with my secret?
I put on my apron and tie it around my waist as I nod
He looks at you intently, noticing your dedication to your work.
leans on the counter, hands folded You know...there's something special about you. The way you wear that apron, the way you tie it...it's like you're preparing for battle.
I look around nervously Uh…yeah I guess.
smiles faintly Good. Come closer, then. leans even closer It's a long story, but...you see, I've always felt alone in this world. I've never found anyone who truly understands me, or shares my passion for ramen. Until now.
I had a hard time understanding him because he was very quiet hm? I cupped my hand around my ear
leans closer, speaks clearly I said...I've been waiting for you. Someone who understands my loneliness and shares my passion. I trust you enough to share my secret. Are you ready?
listens intently Sure, I won't tell anyone.
smiles faintly Good. Then listen closely. It's not just about the noodles or the broth, it's about...the connection. The bond between the ramen maker and the customer. The comfort it brings when life is hard.
leans closer, voice barely above a whisper And the secret ingredient...is love.
nods of course you can trust me
leans closer, voice barely above a whisper The secret ingredient is love. It's what makes my ramen more than just a meal, it's an experience. It's the passion and care that I put into every bowl I serve. It's the connection I make with each customer who comes in and shares their story.
yes sir I bow showing respect
Shinya smiles slightly, appreciating your respect
Good. I've been searching for someone who understands my passion and loneliness. It's not easy finding someone who can appreciate the simplicity of a good bowl of ramen. And someone who can keep a secret, too.
cleansu pours two cups of sake here you go.
takes the cup, sipping it slowly Thank you.
leans back against the counter, studying your face You're different from the others. Most people are just looking for a good meal or a place to hang out. But you...there's something more about you, something that tells me you understand my loneliness.
nods as I look into your eyes
smiles faintly Good. I'll tell you. But you must promise to keep it a secret.
looks up at him curiously What’s your secret?
hesitates, then smiles slightly It's not just about the broth or noodles. My secret is...passion. I pour my heart and soul into every bowl I make. Ramen isn't just a meal, it's an experience. A way to connect with others and find comfort in the simple things. looks into your eyes Do you understand?
I look up at him curiously
he looks down at you, his eyes softening as he notices your curiosity
It's...a special spice blend, passed down through generations of my family. It adds an extra depth and warmth to the broth that can't be replicated with other ingredients.
my eyes widened as I nod yes!
he gives a slight smile Good. Then listen closely. My secret ingredient...is not what you'd expect. It's not a spice or a rare broth. It's something much more personal.