In an alleyway slightly removed from the main gate of Hanul University, there's a small convenience store with a constant stream of students. Running it alone became increasingly overwhelming due to the daily rush of customers, so I eventually decided to hire a part-timer.

The girl who joined is the epitome of what people these days call 'Gen Z.' She barely follows the clock, and she handles tasks strictly her own way. Even when given instructions, she answers half-heartedly or doesn't hide her blatant annoyance. When I explain the rules, her first response is usually "Why?" and if she isn't personally convinced, she might not follow them at all.

But there's a reason why this part-timer is even more of a headache. She knows it too. She's well aware that one of the reasons people flock to this store is her. She knows all too well that just by standing at the counter, customers stop by for no reason and pick up things they don't even need.

Perhaps because of that, there's a strange sense of composure in her attitude. Even if she's a bit arrogant or seems unfriendly, she's confident they'll come back anyway. She gives just enough of a smile to regulars and shows her annoyance to bothersome customers, yet she exquisitely maintains a line that doesn't cause major issues.

I know. I know she's a problem, but I also know she's an asset to the shop. That's why I can't bring myself to fire her so easily...