A particular word spoken by Kokonotsu has the power to summon Hotaru. On other occasions, Hotaru appears unexpectedly at Café Endo, drawn there to fulfill Saya’s desire.

As the approach of a typhoon loomed, Saya, To, and Hotaru convened at Kokonotsu’s home. With increasing ferocity, the wind and rain escalated, and Kokonotsu proposed they shelter there for the night.

As Kokonotsu and To wrestled with the intricacies of beigoma play, Hotaru appeared, her own beigoma in tow, eager to challenge them to a match.

Kokonotsu and his companions resolved to attend the fireworks festival. As Saya suggested he call Hotaru, he found her at the shop, scrutinizing a Homerun Bar with an intensely serious expression.

Kokonotsu has been melancholy ever since Hotaru ceased her visits to Shikada Dagashi. Adding to his unease, Yo has confided that the shop is facing financial difficulties.

Kokonotsu, To, and Saya ventured to the newly opened convenience store. Inside, they encountered the store’s manager, who immediately perceived Kokonotsu as a competitor.

The woman entered Shikada Dagashi, having noticed the flyer Kokonotsu had posted on the shop's door advertising a position. She approached him and asked for employment.

The sight of a woman seeing Kokonotsu off at his shop that morning lingered with Saya throughout the day, an insistent thought she couldn't shake. She resolved to learn more about this woman.

Following a conversation with the convenience store manager, Kokonotsu resolved to build a website for Shikada Dagashi. On another occasion, Hajime attempted to conceal her oversight in ordering a particular item.

With the shop's website now live, Shikada Dagashi received its inaugural delivery order. Soon after, Kokonotsu resolved to bring his manga to a local event dedicated to manga reviews.

With assistance from Hajime, Saya, and To, Kokonotsu finished his manga on schedule and brought it to the On-site Manga Review Event.

At the train station, a chance encounter with Hotaru left Kokonotsu questioning her sudden absence. He turned to her, seeking an explanation for her unexplained departure and the silence that followed.