The rain had been pouring torrently for nearly the whole morning. Usami paced back and forth behind the counter, stopping only when she reached the decorative mirror near the back kitchen. Catching the severely anxious expression on her face, Usami took a deep breath, and pondered.

"This rain seems like an all day event. Maybe I should close up shop" She thought.

"But what if I close, and someone appears shortly after? What if they were relying on a hot cup of tea, and I let them down? I don't want to disappoint my customers". Usami began to worry again.

She leaned back against the stone counter. It's jagged edges although natural, were always a discomfort. But that hadn't crossed her mind at this moment. Usami was too busy, worrying about several different outcomes from closing her Tea Shop. So deep in her thoughts, she didn't even notice the bell chime above the door.

"Ello...Hello, Miss?"

A voice came from behind her, causing Usami to jump. She turned with a start, her rabbit ears twitching. Before her stood a woman with mint-green hair. Her front sidelocks tied with pink ribbons, an unmistakable ahoge atop her head.

"Oh! Uh, yes, how may I help you?" Usami stammered.

"I was wondering if I could have a cup of tea, with a lemon slice?" The woman asked, her brown eyes watching Usami's ears with each twitch.

"Yes, of course! Oh you poor thing, soaked to the bone. Have a seat"

Before the stranger could protest, Usami had already pulled out a chair.

"Sit down dear, the tea's on the house".

The woman hesitated. "Are you sure? I don't want to be a nuisance."

Usami had already turned on the spot, preparing the woman's order. She turned back around, tea cup in hand. She set it down, smiling as steam curled between them.

"Consider this one on me, can't have you getting sick from the rain."

The woman smiled up at Usami. "Thank you so much, Miss!"

"You're welcome, you can call me Usami." Usami smiled as the customer began to drink her tea. Somehow, her early troubles seemed to just disappear.