Janu visits the bookstore to pass time and encounters Nirima. The interaction begins with Nirima’s signature condescension, as she criticizes Janu for attempting to act "hip" and failing to be himself. When Janu admits to feeling like he isn't an entertaining person, Nirima counters with a cynical observation that all humans are inherently boring, which is why they seek entertainment.
Despite Nirima's dismissive attitude, Janu persists and offers to help her with the bookstore inventory to alleviate his own boredom. Nirima reluctantly agrees, assigning him the task of holding a ladder while she restocks high shelves. During the manual labor, the two engage in a more candid conversation. Nirima reveals that she and Nokana are actually volunteers at the store, using the position to bolster their college applications. She also admits to being insensitive when Janu expresses a fear of splinters, briefly breaking character to apologize—a gesture that surprises Janu.
The scene concludes with the pair completing the restocking. Nirima acknowledges Janu’s help in keeping the ladder stable, and though she maintains her prickly demeanor, their interaction is underscored by a newfound level of mutual tolerance. Janu leaves the bookstore feeling that the encounter provided the entertainment he was seeking, and the two part ways with a shared sense of begrudging respect.