Chapter 7 – Yato

The rum burned down my throat as I thought about how to approach Makino.

It wasn't just about seducing her, which was already a challenge considering I was a complete stranger in the village. The real problem was that it wasn't enough to sleep with her,I had to make sure she got pregnant.

And that complicated things.

After all, it wasn't just a matter of doing it and being done with it. There was a right time, a specific biological cycle, and I had no idea how to figure that out without sounding like a lunatic. On top of that, Makino didn't seem like the type of woman who got involved with just anyone.

She was kind, attentive, and, as far as I could see, well-liked in the village. That meant any wrong approach could draw unwanted attention.

I considered some possibilities. I could go the obvious route, winning her over with conversation and familiarity, but that would take time. Time I didn't want to waste. Another option was to create a situation where she depended on me somehow, forming a bond more quickly. But forcing a scenario like that was risky and could backfire.

I looked at her again, watching how she interacted with the customers. Her smile was natural, without ulterior motives. Pure friendliness.

That meant if I wanted a chance, I first had to stop being just a "random outsider."

I set my mug down on the counter and decided to test the waters.

"Another one?" Makino asked with a smile.

"For now, I'm good." I crossed my arms on the counter. "But since you asked... What would you recommend to a newcomer in the village?"

She tilted her head, thinking. "If you're talking about drinks, this rum is the best we have. But if you mean the village..." She let out a small laugh. "I'd say the best recommendation is to take your time getting to know it. Foosha isn't big, but it has its charm."

"Makes sense." I traced my fingers along the rim of the mug. "And what would you recommend besides that?"

"Besides that?" She crossed her arms, still looking amused. "Well, if you're planning to stay, it's good to introduce yourself. People here are welcoming, but they like to know who's around."

"Interesting." I glanced around. Indeed, no one seemed suspicious of me. "But you didn't ask for my name."

She smiled. "You didn't ask for mine either."

I touched the side of my mug, hiding a short chuckle.

"Fair enough."

She tilted her head slightly, waiting.

My name.

The problem was, I didn't remember it.

For a moment, I considered coming up with something elaborate, but I quickly dismissed the idea. I needed something quick, easy to remember, and uncomplicated.

"Yato."

She blinked, as if processing the name for a second, then smiled.

"That's a good name, Yato."

"Thanks. And yours?"

"Makino."

"Makino." I repeated the name slowly, testing how it sounded. "It suits you."

She laughed. "And how exactly does a name suit someone?"

"I don't know. It just feels right." I shrugged, taking another sip of rum.

Makino just smiled and shook her head before returning to cleaning the counter.

The conversation was light, natural. Nothing forced.

But now, I wasn't just a stranger at the bar anymore.

Now, I was Yato.