Chapter 189

“Mm. My mom’s basically just…ridiculous. These things happen all the time.” “They do…? Oh…” “Yup. This is just one example. Mom’s crazy OP, so she’s the only one who ever does anything, and I never get a chance to shine, and sometimes that really gets to me but…when you think about it, Mom being amazing just stands to reason.” “How so?” “I mean, she gave birth to me and raised me, y’know? She’s already done stuff I totally couldn’t do myself. That alone is impressive enough.” “I see. That’s certainly true.” “Right? And you know, I say that, but…I still grumble about it inside.” “Aha…” Hawk took a long look at Masato. “Sniff…” “Why all the waterworks?!” And smiled happily, wiping the tears away. “I’m gonna help with treasure recovery. Hawk, you take a breather. Getting mixed up in a mess like this your first day in the game really takes it outta you, right?” Masato ran off after his party, who had already headed into the warehouse. Hawk watched him go, and Holy Mamako hovered over next to him. “The fact that he can be so considerate like that… It’s a testament to his mother’s upbringing.” “I didn’t do a thing. I merely watched over Ma-kun as he grew.” “Still, you also did so much for him, it gets on his nerves. But no matter. I’ve left all the child-rearing to you, so there’s only one thing I can say: Thank you.” “Hee-hee-hee. You’re welcome.” They exchanged looks of deep affection and then turned to watch Masato go. The busy day was drawing to a peaceful close. “That’s my dolly! The one Mommy took!” “Mm-hmm, good! And from now on, you’re going to keep it in the toy box, right?” “Mm-hmm!” “Then thank you so much for your help. You’ve really made a difference.” The little girl waved, and Mone waved back. The clients left the Mom Shop hand in hand. The other mothers were carrying their children’s treasure back home. All signs of the shadow infestation were gone, and the party breathed a sigh of relief. Another case successfully closed. “Now, Mommy needs to get dinner ready.” “Please,” said Masato. “Oh, and one extra portion. Shiraaase joining us is typical, but you’re in, too, Hawk—right?” “It would be an honor. I’ll be happy to—” “I’m afraid I must infooorm you otherwise, Hawk.” She pointed at her arm. There was no watch on it, but she was clearly indicating time was up. Hawk looked like his world had just ended, but he managed to recover his wits. “How silly of me. My inspection was only temporary—I was here only for a quick look at what the game was like. It’s a shame, but I must go. A pleasure meeting you all.” “Oh. Then…” “Let’s meet again.” Masato and Hawk shook hands. A long shake. Staring at each other, neither letting go. “…What’s the matter?” “I dunno, I just…have a weird feeling we actually will meet again.” “Aha. Strange. I feel the same way.” Hawk let go, then patted Masato on the shoulder, grinning merrily. He bowed to the girls, exchanged a long look with Mamako, and walked off with Shiraaase. “So, like, I’ve been thinking somethin’.” “I thought the same thing!” “I imagine my thoughts are similar. But let’s leave them unsaid.” The girls were whispering again, but no matter. Masato watched Hawk go and frowned to himself. “Mom, is Hawk…?” “What’s that, dear?” “…No, never mind. Let’s get this shopping over with. I’ll carry it for you.” His growling stomach put wings on his feet, and he hustled toward the store.