"Welcome," said the brown-haired girl behind the bar.

I had just entered a cafe that was recommended to me by a friend. The cafe was situated in a park by the lake, conveniently close to a small train station. According to reviews I had read online, it was always packed with tourists ever since it opened in spring. Now, the leaves were starting to turn yellow, and as the tourist flock migrated from our northern island back to their homelands, the bustle of humans was slowly replaced with the gentle chirping of small birds nearby.

Today, less than half of the tables were occupied. Needless to say, there was no difficulty in finding a table, and I chose to sit on the deck to surround myself with a view of the lake. I picked up the menu, and after looking at the sweets on offer, I chose something that was only available for a few more days. This place was just a half-hour from my hometown, so the autumn exclusives can wait.

A black-haired girl emerged from a room near the counter, and I got her attention to take my order. Afterwards, she bowed slightly and retreated into the kitchen. I looked out into the deep blue lake and began to wait for my food.