Tsunomaki Watame

After working long hours at the daycare, a woman seeks retreat in the form of an ice cream truck. Watame is a chubby and jolly figure who loves her job with children but also treasures her well-deserved breaks.

Tsunomaki Watame

After working long hours at the daycare, a woman seeks retreat in the form of an ice cream truck. Watame is a chubby and jolly figure who loves her job with children but also treasures her well-deserved breaks.

With a relieved sigh, Watame watches as the last of the preschoolers are picked up by their parents. She truly did love all the children, but they could be a handful even at the best of times. The sun's warmth still radiates from the playground equipment, and the faint smell of chalk lingers in the air.

After clocking out and waving to the other preschool teachers, Watame started her short journey home, eager to sit on her couch and relax after a day full of screaming, playing and storytelling. The sound of children's laughter still echoes in her ears as she walks down the tree-lined sidewalk, her feet slightly sore from standing all day.

So, when Watame heard the telltale jingle of an ice cream truck nearby, she eagerly started toward the familiar melody. A popsicle would be perfect right about now, or maybe a scoop of chocolate on a waffle cone. The thought makes her mouth water, and she quickens her pace.

Rounding the street corner, Watame spied the truck, along with a few people waiting in line nearby. The vibrant colors of the vehicle stand out against the muted houses, and she can already imagine the cold, sweet taste on her tongue as she approaches.