Rendered in Code and Color

Chapter 6: Layers of Life

"It's the laptop again. When I try to open a blue screen comes up and then it shuts off. I'm worried it's done for." She replied, placing her free hand gently on the laptop.

"Let's take a look at it first and see what we can do." He said as he gestured towards the repair counter.

Mrs. Sato handed Kazuki the laptop, and he placed it gently on the counter. After opening it and pressing the power button, it turned on, then flashed a blue screen before shutting off.

Mrs. Sato had a worried expression. "That's what it keeps doing, though it's happening a lot faster now."

He gave a nod, having confirmed his suspicion. "It looks like an issue with the hard drive. Over time, they can wear out and stop working, especially the older models."

Her eyes widened, "Does that mean all out photos...?"

He quickly reassured her with a warm smile. "Don't worry, Mrs. Sato. Typically, with this kind of issue, the files are still there. The computer just can't access it."

"Well, that's a relief," she said with a sigh. "Some of those photos are from places I don't think I'll be able to visit again. Like the trip we took to France. Nagato always wanted to go there. I remember him being filled with so much excitement, it was like he was in high school again." She finished with a fond chuckle.

"Yes, ma'am, but I'll have to replace the hard drive." He saw she was getting nervous again, so he reassured her, "It's nothing to worry about. I'll transfer everything from the old one to the new one. Besides, I thought this might be an issue soon. So, I backed everything up last time you came in. So all of your precious memories are safe."

She let out another relieved sigh. "You're always so thoughtful, Kazuki. My husband used to say, 'Technology will always advance, but it's the people behind it that matter most.' You remind me of him in that way."

Kazuki flushed, touched by the compliment. "Thank you, Mrs. Sato. That means a lot."

Pausing a moment, he continued, "While I'm working on the hard drive, would you like me to make some upgrades? We can add a faster drive, give you a bit more storage space, and maybe increase the RAM. It'll make your laptop work smoother and faster. I could also give it a good internal cleaning to ensure it stays cool and efficient."

Mrs. Sato's eyes twinkled. "Will it make my old laptop feel brand new?"

Kazuki laughed. "Not exactly brand new, but much closer to it."

"Then go ahead," she said. "I trust your judgment."

As Kazuki began the process, Mrs. Sato continued to chat. "You know, I recently went to Kyoto again. The sakura trees were in full bloom. Such a beautiful sight. You should visit with someone special sometime. It's truly magical."

Kazuki hesitated, his hands pausing for a brief moment, "Maybe I will."

She winked. "Life is short, dear. Don't let beautiful moments pass you by. And remember, cherry blossoms are not the only things that bloom when given the right care and attention."

He chuckled, "I'll keep that in mind, Mrs. Sato."

By the time their conversation ended, Kazuki was almost done with the initial setup. The chat had made the work feel quicker and far more pleasant.

Mrs. Sato, getting ready to leave, said, "Take care, Kazuki. And don't forget to enjoy life beyond these techy walls."

"I promise I won't," he replied, waving her off as she exited the shop.

Watching her leave, he felt a renewed appreciation. Working here had taught him a lot but, perhaps the most important things he learned, were the stories and relationships behind the tech. And how those devices connected people in all walks of life.