V1C5

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Asahina Wakaba and her Wonderful Boyfriend

1

“Mmm, such good weather today! Perfect for my way to school!”

Just looking at the blue sky made me feel great. That’s how the morning is supposed to be. The sunlight shining inside from the window gave me the rush of energy I needed this early.

“Futaba, I’m leaving, okay? Hurry up.”

“Wawawa, wait a second, Onee-chan!” Futaba almost fell over as she chased after me.

“Mom, I’m leaving!”

“S-Same here!”

I have to hurry! Just putting on shoes is such a waste of time!

“Alright then, see you later. Be careful on your way!” I called out to my little sister—but oddly enough, no response came.

Maybe I left her behind in the entrance? I turned around, only to find Futaba inspecting me with a suspicious gaze.

“You’ve changed recently, Onee-chan.”

“Y-You think so?”

“Yeah. The way you talk, your tone, it’s gotten a bit softer.”

“Eh…?”

“And, I like this kind of Onee-chan much more!” Futaba grinned as she said so.

She looked really happy for some reason. But, what exactly does she mean by that? I felt like I was acting the same as always.

“Anyway, see you later, Onee-chan!”

I watched Futaba walk off into the opposite direction, and went on my way as well. Checking the time on my phone, it was just 7.15am. A while ago, I would still be laying in bed during this time. Thinking about it, I probably was acting weird.

—Anyway, at this pace, I’ll definitely make it to school before Haruto-kun! I spotted the place where we normally split up. I almost made it to the goal. My feet were moving faster and faster—

“Ah…?” I let out a baffled voice.

I was feeling like a top-speed runner, and yet the winner was already waiting; the round-faced boyfriend of mine, Iruma Haruto-kun…He beat me again today!? I felt so frustrated I was about to stomp on the ground like a small child.

“Ah, Wakaba-san! Good morning!”

Haruto-kun spotted me, and waved his hand. What is that arrogant grin about? I pouted, as I complained.

“I really thought I had it today! Since when have you been waiting here!?”

“He he he, your training is still lacking! Don’t underestimate the great Haruto!”

Ugh, so vexing! Even though I was so confident!

“You better watch me tomorrow, I’ll definitely beat you!”

“Hyohyohyo…I wonder about that! I’m probably going to hear the same thing tomorrow as well!” He was clearly bragging, but I didn’t hate it.

“…Enough of that! I’m a slowpoke anyway.”

“Oh my oh my, is someone sulking?”

Although his gesture of giving me a sideways glance was fairly agitating, I was smiling nonetheless.

“I’m not sulking at all! I’m not a child! Also!”

“Also?”

There was something I needed to tell him. I took a deep breath.

“…I forgot to tell you. Good morning, Haruto-kun.” I gave him the best smile I could manage.

“U-Ugh…! That surprise attack wasn’t fair!”

“Got you now~”

It’s been a week since we started calling each other by our given names. In the beginning, it was horribly embarrassing, but now we’ve gotten used to it. I guess that humans can get used to anything. When I showed him an arrogant grin, he was forced to avert his eyes. No matter how many times I see it, a blushing and embarrassed Haruto-kun is always cute.

“Fufu, that’s what you get. Anyway, let’s head to school!”

“Really, I can’t win against you.”

I started walking next to him. This reluctant feeling I had before now had vanished. Yet, I don’t know why, but sometimes, I feel oddly embarrassed. My chest warms up, and my cheeks start to feel hot. Just what is this emotion, these feelings I have…I myself did not understand.

“This morning was tough. Dad got scolded by Mom again…”

—Nonchalant conversations.

“You really love your family, Wakaba-san. I can’t help but admire that every single morning.”

—I’m happy when I see his smile.

That’s why I can say this with full confidence. The days I spend with Haruto-kun are my treasure, and they make my heart race in excitement.

Lunch break, we had finished our lunch boxes, and headed back to year 1 class 1’s classroom.

“You ate all of it again today~”

“I mean, I could never get tired of your cooking, Wakaba-san.”

Talking about this and that, he opened the door of the classroom.

“Oh, Asahina-san. Good work today. It must have been rough for you…”

“You can scream for help if you can’t bear it anymore, okay?”

Iizuka-san stood near the entrance, greeting me together with the ponytail girl—Kujou Kanami-san—next to her, both of them smiling.

“You bastards…can you not talk smack about someone right next to you?”

“Just accept the jealousy. Eating lunch together with a girlfriend is something to be envious about. Right, Big Bro?”

“Agreed. Look at this graph. Right here, this is the class hierarchy. You best remember that there’s always people complaining when another guy is flirting around with a girl.”

“Yup. In short, people like us.” The Date Brothers showed a grin.

“Ahaha, that’s just what I expected to hear. Anyway, Haruto-kun, I will see you after school…Everyone, I’m sorry for causing a ruckus!”

“Got it~” Haruto-kun waved his hand with a smile, and the other students saw me off with warm expressions as well.

I was feeling great, leading me to even hum to myself. But, that only lasted until I made it back to my own classroom. Arriving at my own seat, my fulfilled mood vanished in an instant. I guess this is the end of lunch break today. From here on out, I have to sit here in anguish, waiting for classes to end. I was just thinking that, when Nanase-san talked to me.

“You’re actually trying now, huh? Glad to see you’ve gotten serious.”

“…Huh?”

For a second, I couldn’t understand what she was saying.

“Making lunch for him everyday, aren’t you a hard worker. Although it’s for the sake of the game, I would not be able to stand a second with that fat pig—”

—What…did she just say?

“Fat pig…?”

Taking her words as an insult towards Haruto-kun, I subconsciously glared back at Nanase-san.

“Huh? W-What? What’s that face for…Ah, you hated it that much?” Nanase-san apparently misunderstood my actions, and nodded to herself. “Recently, I haven’t had much fun, but that face of yours sure is fresh, so keep at it. I can’t get enough of a gloomy girl and disgusting otaku couple.” She just said whatever she wanted, and went back to her own seat.

I kept my glare directed at her, and tightly formed fists beneath the desk…If not, I might have not been able to hold myself back. To think that I, who disliked Haruto-kun just as much, would end up feeling this way. I knew I didn’t have the right to do so—but I couldn’t help being filled with anger. Rage reigned inside my body, when—

“U-Um…Asahina-san.”

“Eek!?”

T-That surprised me! Who!? Where!? I turned my face towards the source of the voice. Without me realizing it, a female student stood next to me. She must be an entire head smaller than me. She was shaking from head to toe, looking like a small puppy. She’s a different type of cute from someone like Shouji-san.

“Um, you are…Yajima-san?”

“Y-Yup, that’s right.”

Somewhere in the depths of my memories, I dragged out that name. Um…I think her name was Yajima Ruri-san. We never really talked with each other, albeit being classmates, so I almost forgot. She seems to keep her distance from Nanase-san, which is why she never bothered with me before…I wonder what she wants now.

“So, do you have some business with me?”

Maybe Nanase-san and the others forced her to do something? Assuming this, I looked towards them—Ah, they’re not there. Maybe they went to the toilet? The Nanase-san group had vanished. Then, why is Yajima-san talking to me?

“Um, isn’t it hard for you, Asahina-san? Being forced to go out with that Iruma-kun…”

“—!”

My anger from before was about to return with Yajima-san’s words. But, before I could say anything, the girl’s eyes started to tear up. Large drops fell to the ground—Wait, why!?

“I-I’m…I’m sorry…!”

“W-Wha, eh, what happened!?” In a panic, I handed her my handkerchief.

Yajima-san looked at it in confusion, only to gratefully accept it, and wiped her eyes.

“I don’t know what’s going on, but let’s calm down, okay?” I rubbed her back, just like I had done for Futaba when she was younger.

Yajima-san continued to sob for a while, and finally talked to me after she had calmed down. Although it was a lot of cheering her up, and deciperhing her words, I finally grasped the basic gist of what she was saying. From the sounds of it, she herself didn’t want to join in on this ‘game’. But, she couldn’t muster up the courage to stop this whole atmosphere, and was plagued by guilt ever since.

“A-Asahina-san’s face just now was so scary…! I-I was worried that you might end up committing suicide, and I was terrifed of me not being able to do anything…!”

She apparently couldn’t take seeing this treatment day in day out. And that’s why she called out to me.

“I see…”

Did I really have that scary of a face…? I mean, even a girl I haven’t talked to at all could pick up on that. Did I not realize it myself? Did I actually do it this entire time? E-Eh?

…Not good, I have to be careful not to show that in front of Haruto-kun!

“I have no backbone at all…At that time, I really wanted to scream out ‘You can’t do that!’, and stop them. I’m so sorry…!”

“Eh, I mean, umm…?” Even if you say that, what am I supposed to respond here?

Subconsciously, I averted my eyes from Yajima-san, and saw the reaction of the other classmates. They must be curious as to what we were talking about, because they all periodically glanced over here. There are a lot of students that usually follow Nanase-san mixed in there. But, after seeing my gaze, they all looked away again. It was a surreal scenery…and at the same time, it made sense for me.

None of them want to meet eyes with me. If they did one wrong step, they would be bullied just like me, and have this game forced onto them. That is why they joined in. Yajima-san must be one of them. But, she just had that tiny bit more kindness in her. That’s why she mustered up the courage and talked to me.

If it was the previous me, I might have been hostile towards her. Not saying anything when it came down to it, she acted like the victim. I surely would have treated her like that. But, the me right now doesn’t feel like doing so. If anything, I felt bad.

“Yajima-san, please raise your head.”

“…Eh?”

“I am doing just fine. Though things are a bit complicated, you don’t have to worry about me, okay?”

“B-But…but…”

I moved closer to Yajima-san’s ears, and whispered.

“Iruma-kun is actually a very kind person. The rumours are absolutely false.”

“—Eh?”

“If you really are sorry for what you did…then don’t think badly of him. That is all I am asking for.”

“A-Asahina-san, do you actually like—!?”

Hm? Why’s she so shocked? She covered her mouth with her hands, muttering something to herself. But, when I asked her what she was talking about, I heard familiar voices coming from the hallway. It’s Nanase-san’s group.

“Now, return to your seat. If they saw us together, things would get complicated.”

“Asahina-san, I’m really sorry…” The girl walked away as she wiped her tears.

At the same time, I felt myself having calmed down. So much that I even had time to worry about Yajima-san. Just when and how did I change like this? I tried to look for the reason, when his face clashed up in the back of my head.

My heart started racing, and my face burned up. Really, just what happened to me. How do I—feel about him…?

2

As always, the two of us were walking home together. Talking with Haruto-kun, even the long way home from school feels like it goes by in a flash. Ah, I can already see the end of it. That means that today’s enjoyable time is over. Normally we would spend some time near the train station, but since Haruto-kun had some urgent business to attend to, we had to break up here today.

Of course, Haruto-kun felt bad for this, and apologized, but I gave him a warm smile, and told him to not mind it. As we both waved our hands at each other, we separated. On my home alone, not even ten minutes passed after we split, when I got a message from my mom.

—She wants me to buy ingredients for today’s hot pot while I’m still out, huh. I gazed at the list she sent me, and thought about the price for all of these. It’s not much, and I should be able to carry it in a normal plastic bag. The money I had on me should be enough as well.

“But, I have to go back for that.”

Around here, there’s no convenience store or supermarket. I have to go back to the train station for that. At the supermarket there, I should be able to get some good deals.

After a bit of walking, I made it to the shopping district. With the end of the year being near, it was as lively as ever, and so did seem the people passing me by. That reminds me, it’s Christmas soon. Illuminations decorated the houses around, a truly wonderful sight to observe.

—Christmas, huh. This year, I have Haruto-kun, so maybe it’ll be just the two of us…At his house, I can show my cooking skill. Once he’s full, I can give him a present. When I hand it over, our fingertips touch. He pulls on my hand, and our bodies approach—

“…Wait, no no no! We aren’t like that!” I shook my head.

What kind of fantasies am I having? Ahh, my heart is beating so fast. S-Shopping, that’s what I have to do! Um, the supermarket is…

“T-There it is—Eh?”

Isn’t that Haruto-kun over there—with someone? Because of my usual habit, I hid in the shadows. As for the reason, it was because Haruto-kun had a beautiful girl next to him. She had long, white hair, with slender cheeks, and almond eyes, which gave her a calm and cool image. However, contrary to this atmosphere, she was enjoying herself with a bright smile, which left me totally entranced.

I wonder how old she is. If I had to guess, she wasn’t that far away from my own age. The two weren’t aware that I was watching from a distance, as they continued their conversation. Are they in the middle of their shopping trip? Haruto-kun carried two big plastic bags in his hands.

“We’re going to buy even more? I can’t carry this much…”

“What are you talking about! The real deal starts now! You promised to come with me, right? If your arms get cold, use your mouth next.”

“I never said I’d work myself to death. Really, you slave driver.” Haruto-kun sounded like he was complaining, but his face said otherwise.

H-He never showed me an expression like that before! Is that his Onee-san? No, he never mentioned one. Maybe it’s the little sister then? But, she’s a bit too arrogant for that. If she’s really his little sister, I’d have to question her choice of words towards her older brother. Maybe they’re friends then? But, aren’t they too close…?

“Anyway, let’s go! Next is the alcohol shop!”

“Gueh! N-No head-locks, please! You’re killing me!”

Ahhh!? W-What is that!? S-She’s wrapping her hands around Haruto-kun’s neck! And so naturally! And, he doesn’t look like he’s hating it at all. Even I didn’t do that yet! Not fair, not faaaair!

My body shook out of anger and panic. Did he have someone else he was close with? Did he just say yes to my confession because he felt bad…? Y-Yeah, that makes sense! He’s such a wonderful person, there’s no mistaking it that he has two or three girlfriends! Ahh, what should I do, what should I do.

As I was flustered, the two started walking again—Wait, wait! Reflexively, I chased after them…and tripped.

“Aba!?”

“—Eh?”

Curse my own clumsiness! Why does it always end up like this?

“Ouch…I-I bif my fongue…”

“Wah, are you okay—Wait, Wakaba-san!?”

He must have heard the sound of me falling over, because Haruto-kun came running towards me.

“Ah…!?” W-What do I do about this!? He found out!?

“Are you okay? That was some loud sound there…”

“I-I’m totally fine! Totally fine!” I panically stood up, acting tough.

My tongue still hurt a bit, but I ignored that.

“I-Is that so…I’m glad to hear that.” Haruto-kun moved his hand towards my head, brushing away any leaves or dirt hanging on my hair.

When his fingers touched my cheek, he froze up, and frantically pulled his hand away.

“Ah, sorry! I just, well…”

“N-No, it’s fine! T-Thanks…”

For some reason, I felt oddly embarrassed, and rubbed my own hand at my cheek he just touched. I happened to glance up, when he just looked down at me. Our gazes met, we both started blushing furiously, and averted our eyes.

“Ah, um…B-By the way!”

“Y-Yes!”

“W-Why are you here, Wakaba-san? Wasn’t your house supposed to be in the other direction?”

“T-That’s! I-I came here for a shopping trip—” I tried to explain, but then…

“What’s wrong, Haruto? …Oh, who is this girl?”

She must have come to check things out, as that girl from just now approached us. I still haven’t mentally prepared myself! H-How should I explain this?

“Ah, t-this girl is…my…girlfriend.”

—He’s throwing a straight ball!? Not even trying to hide it!?

“W-What’d you say!?”

“Well, um…!”

I-It’s a battlefield…! I prepared myself for the worst. But, as if to betray my expectations, the girl flashed a beaming smile. She proceeded to point at me, and raised a cheerful voice.

“Y-You did it!? You managed to catch such a beauty!?”

“Eh?”

“Wah!? What are you blurting out! Also, don’t point at her!”

“Don’t be like that! You know, I was really worried, since you didn’t have any popularity with the girls. Do you know how many pillows I drenched with my tears at night because I felt bad? Ahh, I’m so glad!”

Eh, what? This isn’t what I imagined. Also, this reaction, it’s almost like…

“Ahh, stop already! You’re so embarrassing! That self-destruction before is still bothering me, so at least don’t torture me in front of my girlfriend, Mom!”

…Hm?

“Hmmmmmm!? W-What?! This…this person is…your mother, Haruto-kun!?”

“Y-Yeah…that she is…”

No way!? She looks like she’s in her twenties…Even lower if you can’t see her up close! My parents got me and Futaba early, but not on such a level! Is this anti-aging or what!?

“O-Oh? Did I actually go too far? I’m sorry, I got excited…”

“N-No, I’m fine! If anything, I apologize for being so rude!”

I don’t want his mother to have a weird impression of me! I panicked and lowered my head.

“M-My name is Asahina Wakaba! I’m sorry, you looked so young and beautiful, I didn’t realize at all…!”

“Oh my, I appreciate that, even if it’s just courtesy. I like you more and more!”

T-Thank god…Seems like our first contact was a success…somewhat.

“My name is Bizen…Ah, no. Iruma Natsuki, please take care of my boy.”

“Ah, yes! Nice to meet you!”

Wait, did she just say Bizen…? Maybe it was just my imagination. Still, she’s a livid and admirable woman. As someone who’s shy with other people, I can’t help but be impressed at that. At the same time, I could see that she was Haruto-kun’s mother, with a similar personality like him.

“Are you on your way home as well, Asahina-san?”

“No, I was asked by my Mom for some shopping, which is why I’m here…”

“I see, I see, an admirable lady! Haruto! Why don’t you help her!”

“…Eh? I mean, I don’t mind, but what about you, Mom?” Haruto-kun asked, slightly worried.

But, Natsuki-san just let out a sigh like she couldn’t believe it.

“What an idiot you are. Who cares about that. Give me those bags! It’d be a bother if you had to carry that, right!”

“No can do, they’re heavy!”

“Don’t underestimate me! This is nothing.” She said, forcefully tearing away the shopping bags from Haruto-kun’s hands.

“You never take back what you say, I see! At least let me carry half. I just need one open hand.”

“Tch, can’t help it then. I’ll take that.”

“Um, it doesn’t look too heavy, so I can help as well!”

I don’t want to be too much of a bother. But, Natsuki-san already had different plans.

“It’s fine, it’s fine! Let that stupid son of mine do the heavy work. He plays these eroge all year, he’s got enough strength in his arms.”

“Gyaaaaaa! Stop! Please, I beg you! Dear Mother, no more!”

Ah, I have to agree with Haruto-kun here, talking about the tastes of your children is a no-go…But, didn’t these types of games have age limitations on them? Then again, she doesn’t seem like a mother that would be too bothered by that.

“Come on, go with her already! You can come back in the morning, take your time.”

“Just shut up, Mom! C-Come on, Wakaba-san, let’s just ignore her!”

“Y-Yesh…”

His face looked like he’d get a heart attack if we stayed with her any longer.

“At your age, I already carried you inside my bell. Today’s youngsters sure are slow.”

“I don’t want to hear about that!” Haruto-kun panicked at that lively story.

W-What should I even say about that? For now, I could tell that she is a very lively mother.

“Well, whatever. You go at your own pace, and have fun with that.” Natsuki-san watched us off, and we walked away.

I just got swept along the situation…is that really okay? I felt bad for just breaking between the two.

“Um…was that really okay? I feel like I just bothered you…”

“Ah, it’s fine, totally fine! Things would just escalate if we stayed around for too long.”

You say that, but I couldn’t help it. While talking with Haruto-kun, I turned around on a whim—

“—Ah.”

For some reason, Natsuki-san was crying as she smiled at us. I panicked, and looked up ahead again. A cold sweat ran down my cheek, and my heart started to beat furiously. It felt like I saw something I shouldn’t have, as anxiety caught hold of my chest.

“…Wakaba-san, what happened?”

“Ah, no, it’s nothing. L-Let’s hurry! There’s a timed sale going on!”

I started to walk faster. At the very least, I wanted us to seem like proper boyfriend and girlfriend while she was watching.

“You don’t have to force yourself. It looks heavy.”

“It’s fine, it’s fine! Just leave it to me.”

We finished the shopping, and stepped out of the market. I’m glad we could buy all the soy sauce, vegetables, and so on. But, when I offered to carry that in one hand, Haruto-kun stayed adamant in holding it himself.

“If she found out that I’m having Wakaba-san carry this, Mom would not let me hear the end of it. Just think of it as helping me, and let me carry this.”

Not fair. If he phrases it like that, I can’t say no. I gave him a harsh glare, but he just ignored that with a smile. Given no other choice, I had to let go of that topic, and was spoiled by his kindness.

“Now then, since we finished shopping for anything, why don’t we take a break and drink some tea? Mom already sent me an email, saying that she went home, so nobody is waiting.” Haruto-kun said.

I checked the time. We only have to cut and boil the vegetables, so getting home a bit later won’t hurt. The ingredients won’t go bad either…Yup, should be fine!

“Ah, then…Should we go to the usual cake shop? I heard they have something new on the menu.”

“Oh, that sounds great! Let’s do that!”

“Okay!”

I sent my Mom an email as well that I’d be a bit late, so now I don’t have to worry. The cake shop is fairly close to us, so it didn’t take us long to arrive in front of it. I could see many customers entering, reminding me yet again of how popular this store actually was.

“Now, let’s hurry inside. We need to get seats, that’s the most important.”

“You really like this cake shop, Wakaba-san. Alright, then let’s go right ahead—”

“…Oh? Onee-chan?”

Hmmm? What was that familiar voice about?

“I knew it! How rare to see you here!”

“F-Futaba!?”

A-Again with that pattern? Why is she always running into me at the worst possible timing?

“That name…is she…?”

“Ugh…yes. She is my little sister, Futaba.”

“Ah, I had a hunch!” Haruto-kun clapped his hands, faced Futaba, and lowered his head. “Nice to meet you, my name is Iruma Haruto!”

Even though it’s his first meeting with a girl, he made it look so easy. His communicative skill is from another world. But, my little sister won’t lose against that. She showed a grin, and gave a bow.

“Hey there, treat me well! I’m Asahina Futaba!” She was brimming with energy as usual.

Whether she’s at home or outside, she’s always the same.

“Are you a friend of Onee-chan? It’s rare to see her out with a boy…Ah, is this what I think it is?” A shade of wickedness showed up in Futaba’s smile, as she snickered to herself. “Is he that person you were thinking about, Onee-chan?”

“Ugh! That’s…well…!”

“No need to hide it! I can sniff it! Iruma-san, was it? My Onee-chan is always in your care!” Futaba showed no negative reaction when seeing Haruto-kun’s appearance.

It’s a beautiful trait of my little sister to not judge people based on their outer appearance. Honestly, I’m relieved. I know that she’s a good girl, but she sometimes can’t read the mood, so I was worried she might be acting rude towards him.

“No no, not at all. Your Onee-san is always very kind towards me.” Haruto-kun looked at me, grinning.

I don’t like this kind of flow.

“I always hear about you from your older sister. That you are an energetic and kind little sister, someone that she is very proud of!”

“Wha! H-Haruto-kun!? Where did that come from!”

“Ohhh…? ‘Haruto-kun’, I see.” Futaba picked up on my words, showing me a grin.

At the same time, Haruto-kun broke out in a roaring laughter, like his plan had succeeded!

“Ha ha ha, you really get embarrassed so easily, Wakaba-san.”

“Ah, are you sure you should be saying that? People who like to tease others will only get pickled dried plums as a side dish for their lunch box tomorrow!”

“Wah, please don’t! Don’t rub me off my reason to look forward to tomorrow’s lunch break!”

“Hmmm, I wonder what I should do~?”

“I’m sorry that I used this chance to tease you! Please, find the kindness in your heart to forgive me!”

As I thought, talking with him is always fun, it makes my heart feel cozy.

“…No way. I’ve never seen Onee-chan talk like that at home. Just what kind of magic did you use? Grrr, you are more amazing than I thought, Iruma-san.”

Ah, not good, I completely forgot about Futaba.

“I’m sorry, I just got a bit too into it.”

“No no, I don’t mind. I’m glad to see you two are so close. I feel jealous, hehehe.”

“Again with that…” I complained.

…Well, eventually, I’ll have to introduce Haruto-kun to my family, so maybe meeting Futaba alone here was good luck. Fortunately, Haruto-kun and Futaba seem to be getting along.

“Hey, Futaba? We had plans on eating some cake here, so why don’t you join us?”

“Ah, I see! What a coincidence! We just came here ourselves. If you’re okay with us bothering you, we’d love to have you around!”

“You came with your friends?”

“Yes…Ah, not good!” Futaba grew pale. “I came running for Onee-chan since I happened to see you, and forgot about the others! Leaving aside China-chan, Kazucchi must be angry.”

A-As always, she’s way too straightforward.

“Hey, Futaba! Where did you go, just leaving us behind!”

“Waah, I’m sorry!”

Together with an enraged voice, three girls came walking towards us.

“…For crying out loud, it’s always the same with you!” The girl with braids, apparently the leader of the group, stood in front of us.

She must be used to Futaba’s personality, which is this. I’m sorry that my little sister is always troubling you…

“Sorry, Haruto-kun, Futaba is always acting rashly like this…”

…Huh? What’s wrong? Haruto-kun just stared at the girl with braids. Is he entranced by her…? No way, right?

“Ahaha, you’re as fast on your feet as ever, Futa-chan…”

“Calm down, Kazuho. Your wrinkles will only increase like this.”

When I was trying to decipher Haruto-kun’s reaction, two other girls behind the girl with braids appeared, joining in on the conversation. They’re trying to calm her down…or pour more oil into the fire? One of them wore glasses, and the other had a short-cut hairstyle. The three of them apparently were Futaba’s friends—Wait, I remember seeing them before?

…Ah, right! A while ago, when I saw Futaba in front of the convenience store, these three were with her. Since they’re together with Futaba again, they must be fairly close. When I was observing them, I happened to meet eyes with the short-cut hair girl.

“Hmm? Who is this girl over here?” She tilted her head in puzzlement.

Since Futaba and I look almost identical, she might be confused, which explained why she blinked several times, looking between me and Futaba.

“Ah, I’ll introduce you! This is my Onee-chan, Asahina Wakaba!” Futaba raised both her hands, as she introduced me.

Behind me, Haruto-kun gave a round of applause, applauding my little sister’s appearance. These two are actually on the same wavelength, aren’t they?

“You really look alike. Nice to meet you, I’m Toono Yukari.” The girl with glasses gave a polite blow.

“I’m Arimori Kazuho. Yukari’s a long-lasting, albeit unwilling, friend of mine.” She said, as she tapped her hand on Toono-san’s head.

“My name is Nitta Chinatsu, please treat me well. I do have to say, she has this cuteness of a small animal, unlike Futaba~” The short-cut haired girl—Nitta-san, gave a worrying grin, as she offered me a hand.

…I’m a bit scared of her.

“What are you telling her in a first face-to-face meeting? I’m sorry about this, Wakaba-san.” Arimori-san must have seen my terrified reaction, as she slapped Nitta-san on the head. “…Wait, this boy that’s with you.—” Arimori-san cut her words mid-sentence.

Apparently, they finally diverted their attention to Haruto-kun.

“Ah, this person is currently going out with Onee-chan. His name’s Iruma Haru—”

“No way…! Are you really Iruma!?” Arimori-san suddenly stared at Haruto-kun, jumping in front of him.

“Y-You’re right! It really is Iruma-kun! Why are you here!?” Even Toono-san showed a confused reaction as well.

I-Is it just my imagination, or can I see tears in the corners of her eyes…?

“I thought so. Arimori-san and Toono-san, huh. It’s been a while. I’m glad to see you’re doing okay, yeah.”

“H-Huh? Haruto-kun, you know them…?”

They acted like they ran into a deceased person, so much they were panicking. In response, Haruto-kun looked a bit tense. If anything, he seemed uncomfortable with this…?

“It’s been a while~~~ My ass, you moron!”

“We were really worried about you, Iruma-kun…!”

Seemingly relieved, they both let out a sigh.

“You changed your phone number and mail address, right. We had no way of contacting you, so we had no idea what you were up to!”

“W-What’s wrong, you two? Leaving aside Kazuho, it’s rare to see Yukari this agitated…”

“T-That’s right. Kazucchi, what happened?”

Futaba and Nitta-san were left in confusion at their friends’ reactions. They apparently did not know the circumstances either. Is this some sudden brewing of a battlefield? I looked over at Haruto-kun in hopes for some help.

“…No, it’s nothing. I was attending the same middle school as them, but I changed schools midway.” Haruto-kun must have realized the storm brewing, and started explaining. “Arimori-san, Toono-san, I’m sorry for leaving like that even though I was in your care! A lot of stuff happened, see. I did want to show my face at least during the graduation ceremony, but I couldn’t make it in time!” Haruto-kun clapped his hands together, apologizing to them.

But, they both kept silent, showing no reaction whatsoever to Haruto-kun. Are they still angry by any chase? So I thought, but their eyes were wide open, as if they were baffled about something. I wonder…they look really surprised…?

“That’s just…you know?”

“Ah, y-yeah.”

Haruto-kun gave the both of them a wink, to which they looked at each other, and nodded. What was that suggestive gaze about? What happened between them? Why do I feel like I’m being left out here? …Hmpf.

“Ah, I’m sorry.” Haruto-kun caught on to my gaze, and gave me a reassuring smile. “No need to worry, I’ll follow you for the rest of my life, Wakaba-san! Because I’m head over heels for you!”

“Wha!?”

I-Idiot! Why would you just say that!?

“Really, my girlfriend can be so jealous at times, how cute!” Manjuu-san said it with a tone of ‘Being popular is a curse’.

“W-What’s your problem! Y-You play lewd games that you hide from me, don’t you! I don’t think you have the right to act like Mr Handsome over here!”

“Wawawa! Y-You promised not to tell anybody, right!?” The mask of a popular boy fell right off Haruto-kun’s face.

Indeed, this is the boyfriend I know.

“Ah, Onii-san, you play eroge?”

“Ah, well…Just as a gentleman…”

Nitta-san’s eyes were sparkling, as she walked towards Haruto-kun.

“What kind of genres do you play? I really like the training and disciplining types!”

“No, I’m a specialist on pure games! I reject any fiendish genres!”

“You’re just holding back because you’re in front of your girlfriend, right?” Nitta-san showed the laugh of an old man.

Watching this, Futaba let out a sigh.

“China-chan always goes crazy when the topic changes to that. Also, aren’t these 18+ games…?”

Futaba’s question was skillfully ignored, as Nitta-san continued her conversation with Haruto-kun. From what I gathered, she liked games and anime. Even though this was their first meeting, she and Haruto-kun got along really well.

Then again, a high school boy and girl talking about 18+ games in front of a cake shop, this truly is quite the surreal scene. The customers that passed us gave the two confused glances, and entered the shop…This doesn’t count as them obstructing the cake shop’s business, right?

I was a bit worried, but Futaba joined the conversation as well, not being bothered by the people around her. Unexpectedly, Futaba sometimes plays games (not the lewd ones!), so she had no problems following the conversation. She really has no problems getting along with anybody. I might be a bit jealous.

…Maybe I should look into anime and games some more? I thought of what to do, and when I turned my gaze towards Arimori-san and Toono-san—

“H-He’s changed, huh…”

“He’s…like a different person.”

They were watching Haruto-kun. Ahh, I can’t take it anymore! I need to know!

“U-Um! You two were…Haruto-kun’s classmates…right?”

“Eh? Ah, yeah.”

“What was he like in middle school?”

“In middle school? Hmm…” Arimori-san had a sudden distant gaze. “How do I say it, he’s totally different now. Back then, he was acting much more timidly, and more of an introvert.”

“Yeah, he was very grown-up. And, whenever something happened, Namikawa-kun covered for him…” Following Arimori-san, Toono-san smiled.

Eh, Haruto-un was like that back then? That’s almost like—

“But, he was working on himself, that Iruma-kun.”

“Right. Once we got up to 2nd grade, he was more relaxed, and easier to have around…though he was still fairly timid at times. I always thought that he should work on him being hesitant all the time.”

“That reminds me, you and Namikawa-kun often helped him with his studies and homework, right.”

“He was really hopeless, so I just had to. As thanks, he helped me with English. People have strengths and weaknesses, I guess.”

They looked at each other, showing a nostalgic smile.

“He was always embarrassed about it, but his father is an English teacher, so he must have been good at English. Since he doesn’t have a mother, he had to take care of all the household, which didn’t give him much time to study.”

“—Eh?”

He doesn’t…have a mother? Eh? But, just now…

“U-Um! Can I ask about Haruto-kun’s family…?”

“He apparently lived together with his father. Whenever that timid Manjuu talked about his old man, he had this fulfilled look on his face.

“Yeah, I really felt his love for his father, and yet something like that happened…”

That’s where the two grew quiet. They averted their faces, gritting their teeth.

“W-What!? What happened!?”

“Y-You don’t know!? Ah, ugh, this is bad…”

I apparently heard something I shouldn’t have, but there was no way I could stop coming this far.

“Please tell me! Just what happened…!”

It might really be something that doesn’t concern me. Because, if Haruto-kun never told me, I probably didn’t need to know. But, I still…!

“When he was in his second year in middle school, he got bullied. He fell from the stairs, and hurt his leg in the process. Luckily, he didn’t break anything, but he hit his head, so they took him to a hospital check-up.” Arimori-san must have seen how desperate I was, and started explaining. “There, his father hurried home from work out of worry. But, because he was panicking, he didn’t catch on to the truck driving towards the intersection…and he passed away in the accident.”

“—!”

W-What…I never heard of that…He never—

Well, he was pretty strict when he got angry, but he’s still my important old man.

“Ah…”

That’s right, why did I never realize? When he talked about his father, Haruto-kun always used past tense…

“Iruma-kun blamed himself for his father’s death. He wouldn’t even listen to Namikawa-kun. And as for us, we could only watch.”

“After the funeral, he just transferred without telling anybody. Apparently, Namikawa-kun’s parents had a job transfer, and he went with them…but, even if they’re childhood friends, I had trouble believing that.”

I had no words. To think something like this happened in his past.

“But, he seems to be doing well now, so I’m relieved! Is that thanks to you by any chance?”

“Yeah, agreed! Thank you very much, Asahina-san!”

No. I didn’t…do anything. On the contrary, I just…

Yes, that’s right. We’re pretty close.

“Ah…”

My dad is very kind, and always fun to have around!

“Aaah…”

What about your family, Iruma-kun?

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh…!”

This morning was tough. Dad got scolded by Mom again…

You really love your family, Wakaba-san.

“I-I…no, I didn’t mean to…!”

I can’t help but admire that every single morning .

…!”

I didn’t know…! But, I still…!

“Hey! Are you okay!? You got so pale all of a sudden!” Toono-san asked, flustered.

“N-No, I’m fine, it’s nothing…”

“Eh, Onee-chan!? What happened! Did Kazucchi tell you something weird?”

“I-I didn’t do anything! I just talked about Iruma for a bit…”

Approached by Futaba, Arimori-san frantically shook her head. That’s right, she didn’t do anything wrong.

“I’m fine…I really am…” I casted my face down, and saying these words was the best I could manage.

My heart raced so fast it started to hurt. My legs were quivering, as I felt the air in my throat getting stuck—

“—Eh?” My field of view suddenly went black.

A white fabric covered my eyes and ears.

“Why don’t we let off the tea today and go home? Here, use this to wipe away the sweat.”

I raised my head towards the voice, and found Haruto-kun standing next to me. He held a white handkerchief in his hand. Being met with his worried gaze, all I could do was nod.

3

Haruto-kun and I walked through the evening city, after we parted from Futaba and her friends. Futaba was adamant on coming with us, probably out of worry, but I couldn’t accept that. I didn’t want to disturb their fun just because of my selfish feelings. I really wanted Haruto-kun to go home as well, but he was oddly obstinate, not leaving me alone.

And, with no conversation whatsoever, an awkward atmosphere reigned between us—when Haruto-kun stopped walking.

“…Sorry. I wasn’t hiding it on purpose.”

“Eh?”

“I just didn’t want you to worry.”

“You heard…?”

Taken by surprise, my heart almost stopped beating entirely. If so, how should I even hope to apologize? I found out someone’s secret without their consent. He has all the right to be angry.

“I actually have good ears. Then again, you were talking fairly loudly. Ah, your little sister and friend probably didn’t hear it, so no need to worr—”

“I must have been inconsiderate…all this time, right? I’m sorry!” I felt the tears, about to come out.

I deeply hated myself, and the person I am.

“Haruto-kun, you had to go through so much, and yet I just…!”

“Wakaba-san…”

“You must hate such a gloomy, inconsiderate girl like me…right?”

Who could fall in love with such a girl like me. I deserve to be bullied. Even now, I keep hurting him, unable to do anything to ease his pain. I couldn’t even look at Haruto-kun.

“I-I’m just—”

“Wakaba-san!”

“Eh…?” I raised my head in shock, only to find Haruto-kun laughing.

“What kind of gloomy face is that? You’re planning on teasing me again, right?” He averted his face, like he was sulking.

“O-Of course not! I’m trying to be serious here—”

“Serious? This is too ridiculous, I’m dying of laughter!”

“W-What is so funny about this?”

“That story was finished two years ago. Even if you bring that up now, I just think of it as a memory, nothing more.” Haruto-kun shook his head.

“T-That can’t be…!”

“You get sad and depressed about it all on your own? Hah, what’s next? I’m supposed to hate you now? In what world!?” Haruto-kun tried to contain his laughter as he held his stomach. “Also, there’s no way some dullard like me would still be hung up on something like that. Not happening! If I was that kind of man, I wouldn’t have talked about eroge on the entrance ceremony, and I wouldn’t have gotten kicked out as a result either. Don’t underestimate the legend that I created.” Haruto-kun raised his thumb. “I hid it from you, and you happened to hear it, so aren’t we even now? If you still feel bad about it, then make me a luxurious lunch box!”

…His lie was too easy to see through. It’s just something from the past? You won’t be bothered by these wounds? Then, why did you have such a lonely gaze when you looked at the backs of Taichi-kun and his father? I was yet again baffled at his kindness, when Haruto-kun’s face became more serious.

“I like the Wakaba-san who talks about her family.”

“Eh…?”

“The smile you show me when you tell me about your father, mother, and little sister…I love it.”

Wha—!

“T-That’s why, you don’t have to worry about that! If anything, I want to hear even more! Because I want to keep watching that kind of Wakaba-san!”

“Haruto…kun…?”

His kindness snuck right into my chest. It made me feel all warm inside, as my heart started racing.

“Thank…you…”

“I’ve been thinking about this for a while now, but don’t you apologize too often? You can live more freely, Wakaba-san.”

“Hm…D-Do you think so?”

“If anything, the kind of tone you have towards me still doesn’t feel like we’re dating. I was wondering if you were forcing yourself. I mean, it’s gotten better as of late, but…”

Now that he mentioned it, that made sense. If something happened, I would immediately apologize. I don’t know when it happened, but apparently I made that my habit. It’s the same with my polite language. I admired my Mom, and took after her, but that’s probably where my lack in confidence came from.

Yeah. The way you talk, your tone, it’s gotten a bit softer.

Yeah, that’s it. Futaba told me something like that. I realized that I was talking less politely even inside my family.

“You saw my Mom, right? I’m not telling you to become like her, but you might as well learn a bit from her. Then again, you might end up like Mifuyu instead…Yeah, don’t take her as reference! If you ended up like that, I probably would bite off my tongue and kill myself.”

J-Just what kind of little sister is she? I was actually a bit interested.

“Right, talking about that your Mom—Ah!” I panicked and cut myself off, but he already fgured what I was going to say.

“Still hung up on that? No need to worry. The Mom you met before is my actual mother. She just lives separate from me.”

“Ah, is that so! I got a weird misunderstanding…”

“Well, I can’t blame you. The thing is, before I met Mifuyu two years ago, I thought that Mom was dead. Because that darned old man of mine never told me anything.”

—According to Haruto-kun, this is what happened.

His mother…Natsuki-san, wasn’t actually a member of the Iruma family originally. Her real family name was Bizen. She and Bizen Ryouichi-kun are actually blood-related relatives. She was born into a renowned family, but couldn’t take this kind of lifestyle, so she ran away from home, and met Haruto-kun’s father there. Out of this relationship, Haruto-kun was born.

However, the happiness didn’t continue for too long, as Haruto-kun’s father was deceived by a trusted friend, burdened with a great sum of debt. For her to carry that debt instead, Natsuki-san got divorced, and moved back to her main family. There, she ended up marrying a fiance, and gave birth to Haruto-kun’s little sister. Then, when his father died two years ago, Haruto-kun’s mother appeared again.

“So then, after many twists and turns, I got to know Ryouichi and Yui-san, and I now live together with them, as well as Mifuyu and Mom. And then, we all lived happily ever after.”

That being the case, his little sister actually turned out to be a genius, which is why she often goes back to the main family to help with business. Honestly, it sounded like a drama straight out of a manga. Can you really call this all a happy end? I’m sure he must have been enduring something beyond what I could imagine.

“Well, you know. All that ends well is well. Dad is no longer with me, but the things he taught me stay with me. How to take care of myself, how to make miso soup. And, his English skills more than anything. It’ll definitely be useful somewhere.”

“That reminds me, your father was an English teacher, right. Is one of your dreams that you want to follow in his footsteps?”

I remembered Haruto-kun telling me about his dreams during our first date.

“N-No, not really. The dream I have isn’t something easily achievable with just effort…”

“Oh, really? Then, what is your dream?”

Judging from his flustered expression, it must be a wish very much like Haruto-kun. A kiss…or something even more lewd!?

“Y-You’re not going to laugh?”

“Of course I won’t.”

Depending on the contents, I might need to take my distance though.

“I told you that my Mom went back to her family right after she gave birth to me. That’s why she never really got the chance to hold me, you know. She seems still pretty hung up on it, and I can sometimes hear her apologize to me when she’s talking in her sleep.” Haruto-kun looked up at the sky. “That’s why, I want to marry the person I like, build a family of my own…and then, once I have a child, I want Mom to carry it as much as she wants. Thanks to Mom and everyone, I can be this happy, so I want to show her, and thank her.”

A breeze blew past us.

“That is…your dream?”

“Y-Yeah. It’s as average of a dream as it can be, but I was too embarrassed to be called a mother baby, so I never told anybody.” Haruto-kun hid his face. “Y-You’re not going to laugh?! It’s pretty embarrassing, I know!”

“H-How could I ever! I think it is a wonderful dream, so I will support…you…Huh?”

That reminds me, back then, didn’t I—

Do you have other dreams as well? Why don’t I help you in fulfilling them?

“Gyaaaaaah!?”

“Eh, w-what happened?!”

“N-Nothing! Nothing at all! I just remembered something, yesh!”

Waaaah shut up, me! Look at Haruto-kun, he’s getting all suspicious!

“Oh right, a while ago, didn’t you–Ah.” He remembers! “Well…um.”

“Yeah…errr…”

We both had nothing else to say, and just grew quiet. His face already made it past being red, and burned with a strong crimson. Naturally, I was probably the same. I-I never would have imagined that a silence could be this awkward. I was so embarrassed, I wanted to hide in a hole!

“Ah, well…”

“Uuu…”

…Should we…head home?”

“…Y-Yeah! It’s gotten cold now!”

We lined up next to each other, and started walking.

“……”

Finally, with both of us, at the same time—

“……”

—We held hands.

On the way home, we shared no words. There was no reason to. We were both just enjoying the comfortable and relaxing atmosphere between the two of us. Through his hand, I could feel his warmth. My heart started beating at a volume I was worried that he might be able to hear.

The sun had already started to set, as the orange light created shadows at our backs. Today, the entire time—No, not just today. I am truly blessed that I got to meet Haruto-kun, and learn more about him. He’s always meddling, quite lewd, and you can’t call him a handsome man even if you wanted to.

But, no matter how tough it may be, he would always smile, always making sure everyone around him is happy. He’s like the sun. The moment I saw this kindness, something inside of my heart changed. I don’t know how it happened, or when, but I already had my answer inside of me.

…I finally get it now. I actually— Like him.

The fact that I was bad at dealing with boys, and my fear of them, it all disappeared. What filled this void was a strong, almost overwhelming desire to never let him go again. It burns strongly inside of my chest, and it’s the first—love that I experienced. I gave in to these feelings inside of my heart, and tightly grasped his hand.

At the same time, as if he had caught on to my thoughts, Haruto-kun did the same. This sensation felt so warm, so comfortable, I just cast my beet red face downward, and walked next to him.

Finally, we arrived in front of my house. After all things considered, it went by in a flash. But, I still want to stay with him for a bit longer…Maybe I could invite him in? No, I didn’t clean up anything! I want him to have a good first impression.

“S-So then, Wakaba-san…I’d love to stay with you, but…”

“Y-Yes…Um, thanks for everything today.”

I don’t know how I should thank him. I tried using my words, but since I’m so tongue-tied, this is the best I could manage.

“You don’t need to thank me, I didn’t do anything. If anything, I’d have to be the one.”

That’s why…I at least wanted to give something back to my beloved one.

“But, I can’t accept that. I’ve been a bother this entire time, so could you turn sideways for me?” I poured all my heart into these words, and mustered up as much courage as I could.

“Hm, like this?”

“—” I reached out for his cheek with my fingertips—and pressed my lips against it.

“Eh…” A baffled voice came out of Haruto-kun’s mouth as he turned around.

His eyes were wide open, as if he had seen a ghost.

“…This is my thanks. Sorry that it’s just on the cheek.”

“—Ah, eh?” His body leaned sideways, as he only barely stopped himself from toppling over.

He put one hand on his cheek, and just walked away on wobbly feet.

“On my cheek…a soft kiss…the sky…woeh?” He was mumbling something, as his appearance vanished beyond the horizon.

…D-Did I overdo it? As I watched the place he walked off to, I gently licked my lips.

4

After that—everything in my world started to shine brightly. Just how dense have I been? I realized it way too late! I had no idea that every day could be so enjoyable.

“Where should we go for our next date?”

“W-Wherever you want to go, Wakaba? I’ll follow you!”

He started calling me without honorifics fairly soon after that.

“…Come on…I’m the same, you know?”

“We really are a good match, right? The best-couple, I say!”

At the same time, I stopped talking overly polite towards him.

“Let’s play that game next!”

The time spent with Haruto-kun was more important to me than anything else.

“Got it. I’ll win this accessory, and make it your present for the day!”

I want to be with him forever.

“Should I buy this plastic model today?”

“I mean, why do we always end up here during our date?”

“You shouldn’t worry about the small stuff.”

“I mean, if you’re enjoying yourself, I totally don’t mind, Wakaba…”

He would even listen to my selfish requests.

“Why’s it matter as long as you both get along? Here, your Gem II!”

These days felt like I was dreaming.

“Waah, so soft and spongy!”

“Y-You’re tickling my belly…! It feels really weird, like I’ll awaken to something…”

No matter what we did, everything was fun, and just talking with him made me feel like I was in heaven. I’ve gotten completely engrossed with him. No matter how spoiled I act, he won’t get angry. No matter how honest I am with my feelings, he doesn’t push me away. He listens to everything I say. He warms up my heart with his kind smile. How could you not fall in love with him? I couldn’t care less about face or body figure.

This is what they call a comfortable relationship, no doubt. Whenever I’m with him, I feel relieved. It makes me want to be with him forever. I can’t even imagine a student life without Haruto-kun anymore.

“Here, your special Wakaba-style lunch box!”

“Ohh, looks delicious as always!”

We sat in the back of the school building during lunch break, enjoying our usual lunch break time.

“Now, eat up. I have your share prepared as well, Namikawa-kun, Bizen-kun.”

“Thank you, Asahina-san. You really are a lucky fellow, Haruto-kun.”

“You can say that again, what a girlfriend you have. I have Yui’s lunch myself, but this should be enough to fill me.”

Today, it’s not just the two of us. Of course, that meant that I had to make more, and put more work into it.

“Yes, eat lots, okay?”

“Ah, this is the best…I’m so happy…I don’t even care what happens to me anymore…!” Haruto-kun shed tears of joy and happiness.

“Really, I can’t watch this. What kind of face is that.” Bizen-kun showed disgust.

“Ahaha, you can say that again.” Namikawa-kun giggled along.

“Ha ha ha, it’s all okay. I’m sure it’ll work out with you Yui-san and Mifuyu!”

“Why’d you suddenly bring up Yui’s name?”

“Thank you, Haruto-kun, I’ll try my best! Also, I’ll stay with no comment concerning Ryouichi-kun.”

I met this maid Yui-san before. She clearly emitted affection towards Bizen-kun, but he did not realize that at all, how dense.

“A while ago, you two gave me a present for my birthday, right? You got good sense, I tell ya.”

“I’m glad you liked it, Haruto-kun.”

“Heh, go and thank Yui then. She was the one who picked it, although I told her to just keep it short.”

Oh right, I almost forgot!

“Why didn’t you tell me about that? I would have prepared a present myself, but more than two weeks have passed already!”

“S-Sorry! I thought it’d sound like I was begging, so I didn’t. And also…”

“And also…what?”

“I already got a wonderful present this year…which is you, Wakaba.” Haruto-kun was clearly embarrassed at his own words, but still kept a serious gaze towards me. “You became my girlfriend! There’s no better present to receive!”

N-Not far…! That surprise attack is not fair!

“Just you wait, I’ll definitely top even that! …And then I’ll enjoy your reaction!”

“No no no, there’s no bigger surprise than that, you know? Then again, I’ll gladly welcome anything coming from you!” Haruto-kun proudly announced, as he glanced at me. “…But, if you’re that adamant, then I would have one small wish left unfulfilled.”

“You sure are greedy all of a sudden. What else would you want from Asahina?”

“It’s rare for Haruto-kun to wish for something except anything 2D related.”

Bizen-kun and Namikawa-kun were right. Just what else could he want? If possible, I’d like to help fulfill that wish.

“C-Can’t you…um…call me by my name now? With no honorifics? I’m doing it as well, right?”

“A-Auu…that’s…”

I-I didn’t expect that. I’m already embarrassed to call him like that.

“Come on, come on, I’m listening~?”

“U-Umm…Haru…to… Mumble mumble —”

“Oh, I can’t hear you?”

He’s enjoying this!

“Don’t…act like you’re allowed everything! I don’t care about such a cruel person like you!”

“O-Oh…are you angry now?”

When I averted my face, Haruto-kun gave a worried voice.

“Hmpf, this ‘Haruto’ can just go away! I hate people who play with a girl’s feelings.”

“…And that’s why I love you, Wakaba.”

“Wha!? A-Are you listening to me? You idiot!”

Apparently, our exchange was impossible to witness for others. Bizen-kun and Namikawa-kun both gave blank stares of contempt.

“Ahh, I can’t stand this. Hey, Shun! If you’re done eating, let’s leave these two love birds alone!”

“Right. I’m already full just by watching them.”

“Ah…”

“Ugh…”

I can’t argue against that. We were flirting so much that we completely forgot about the two being with us, right!? Yeah…that was a no-go…I felt my face burning up with heat.

“No need to mind us, we won’t be in your way any longer.”

“Heh, just don’t go at it like wild rabbits when nobody’s watching!”

“W-We won’t do anything like that!”

Namikawa-kun and Bizen-kun both gave us lecherous grins, as they walked away. Left alone, we both looked at each other, smiling bashfully.

“…They are really good people.”

“Yeah, I’ve been with them for a long time. There couldn’t be any more reliable friends.”

Seeing Haruto-kun talk about his friends, with a gleeful expression, I myself felt happy. We gratefully used this alone time until the second before the chime rang, and talked through the entire lunch break.

5

—At dinner time, my family and I sat at the dinner table.

“Hmm, hmm~”

While carrying a bit of Mom’s cooking into my mouth, I thought about today’s lunch, and about him. He enjoyed the lunch box today, right? I’m really happy about that.

“My, my. Someone is in a good mood today. Did something good happen?”

“Not really? Your cooking is just delicious, that’s all!”

“R-Really? I’m happy to hear that.”

To be honest, her food did taste several times better than usual. Maybe because I was feeling better overall?

“W-Well, it’s great that you’re so energetic, but aren’t you too excited as of late?” Dad said so, as his face tightened up.

Really? I’m not doing it on purpose though.

“—Hm?” I felt a gaze from my side. “Futaba, what happened?”

“N-No, it’s nothing?” My little sister grinned at me.

It looked her eyes were radiating with happiness…I felt oddly bashful, and stuffed a bigger load of food in my mouth.

I finished my evening bath, and reminisced about the day, and what happened. Though there were a few failures, I couldn’t have been happier. All of Haruto’s expressions and words repeated inside of my head. That alone made me grin.

“Onee-chan, do you have a moment?”

Together with a faint knock on the door, I heard my little sister’s voice. Of course, I had no reason to deny that, so I invited her in.

“Sorry to come over this late.”

“It’s totally fine. Is there something you need?”

“Mom and Dad were all about ‘Wakaba is acting weird as of late…’. Dad especially sounded worried, so I came to check up on you!” She gave me a response with a cheerful face.

I figured she would already know the reason why I was acting weird. That’s why, there can only be one motivation of hers as to why she’s here.

“So? So? How’s it going recently? Are you getting along with that Iruma-san person?”

“Ah, well…I-It’s going pretty good, I guess?”

Can’t help it. She met Haruto before, so there’s no need to hide it, huh?

“Haruto talked about all sorts of ridiculous things today, and teased me. But, he’s actually always considerate and kind, and a wonderful boy.”

“Ohhh, really? ‘Haruto’, huh?” She grinned, but eventually tilted her head in confusion. “But, I’m a bit surprised. I don’t mean to be rude, but with how he looks, and his face, he didn’t seem like the type of person Onee-chan would fall in love with.”

She’s as honest and direct as always. I couldn’t help but show a wry smile. I did feel the same way, but now…

“It’s true that he’s not exactly handsome. But, I think he’s cute. His charming points don’t come from his appearance.”

Just by being next to him, my heart feels at ease. I find myself smiling naturally. It’s exactly as Namikawa-kun told me. Now, I understood his words.

“He can work his hardest for someone else’s sake. He is more kind than anybody else.”

That’s why I love Haruto.

“Haaa…” Futaba let out a sigh, her cheeks reddened. “Onee-chan, you really like him, huh! Just listening to you makes me feel all embarrassed!” She held both her cheeks. “Ahh, I’m so jealous! I want a boyfriend myself! Hey hey, tell me, how did you start dating someone as wonderful as him?”

“The beginning of our love? Fufu, that’s—”

—What was it again?

“…Huh?”

Why did I start going out with him—

You are Asahina-san? I heard you have some business with me?

Y-Yes. Um, the thing is…

Huh? Just now, I saw something weird in my memories? My head…it hurts…?

“Onee-chan? What’s wrong?”

“Ah, no, it’s nothing?”

Well, whatever. If I can’t remember, then it’s nothing important.

“Um, I don’t remember it too well. It just happened, I guess? One day, I realized that I liked him.”

“Hmm? I don’t really get it, but I guess that’s what makes love so difficult.”

“Y-Yup, I’m sure.”

I wonder why, my head won’t stop hurting. Am I lacking sleep? Not good, I don’t want to have baggy eyes when I meet him. I told Futaba I wanted to head to sleep, to which she still didn’t look too satisfied, but eventually left my room. I sat on my bed, and put one hand on my chest. What…is this gloomy feeling?

I don’t know why. What should I feel worried about? Oh yeah, Nanase-san and the others stopped bothering me as of late…Eh? Bothering? That made it sound like I was bullied. How stupid, as if that was the case. After all, there is nothing wrong with me and Haruto going out. I wasn’t forced to confess, no. There are no lies between us.

If I don’t make myself think that— my happiness will break apart.

…I guess I should sleep. I’ll have a dream of Haruto. And then, I’ll wake up to a new, wonderful day—

……

…………

“Wha…wha…S-Seriously!?”

“Kya!” Haruto ’s scream took me by surprise.

“R-Really!? Y-You like me!? Eh, what? This isn’t a dream, right?”

“What kind of development is this…A shounen manga like this would get axed right away, I tell you.”

Seeing Haruto shake in joy, I felt a rush of guilt assault me.

“Y-Yes. Um, actually…”

“Awawawa!?”

My words got stuck in my throat. Should I really confess here? Now, I could still take it back. But even this one last chance I had—

“Asahina-san?”

—Was ruined by Nanase-san’s voice.

“Iruma-kun…”

“Y-Yes!”

Thump, thump, my heart hammered inside my chest. I couldn’t stop my body from shaking. I really can’t escape this any longer.

“…I…like you. Please…go out…with me—”

……

………

…………

6

Third period finally came to an end. As soon as I make it through the next English class, the long-awaited lunch break will finally arrive. Thanks to Haruto teaching me lots lately, I’ve gotten much better at English, and even managed to get some good grades, about which he praised me. As a thanks, and also because I felt like it, I poured lots of effort into today’s lunch. Everytime I imagined his smile with his stuffed cheeks, I found myself grinning.

“You’re feeling pretty good as of late, huh?”

When I was dwelling in my thoughts, Nanase-san and the others approached me. Did they have some business?

“What are you grinning for, it’s disgusting. Oh yeah, what happened with the kiss? You said that he couldn’t make it to the date, right? Nothing happened ever since. You’re not telling me you didn’t do it yet, right?”

“A-A kiss!? N-No, that’s still too early for us! Ah, but…if he was a bit more assertive, I wouldn’t mind…Kyaa~” Just by imagining it, I felt my heart race.

T-That’s right, he always holds back on everything. I know that he’s being considerate, but I wish he could be more aggressive at times.

“Eh, Asahina-san, what are you talking about?” Shouji-san blinked at me in confusion.

“D-Did you go crazy now? I don’t get what you’re on about.” Even the always calm Torimaki-san showed confusion.

What happened to them?

“Are you joking!? Where did that come from?”

Why are they treating me like I’m the weird one? I’m just talking about my boyfriend.

“This morning, I got up early to make a lunch box for him. Will he be happy? What do you think?”

I only asked for their thoughts. Yet, all the color drained from their faces. Maybe they’re not feeling well? Should I escort them to the infirmary?

“D-Don’t make us listen to something disgusting like that! Are you trying to pull us down!?”

“N-Nanase-san, calm down!”

“R-Right. Just leave Asahina-san alone. If you talk any more with her, we’ll be the ones who go crazy next.”

I’ve never seen Nanase-san and the others so flustered before. Maybe they really were feeling off?

“R-Right…you do you. As long as you entertain us until the very end!”

“…Huh?”

Until the very end? I don’t get it? Entertain them? How?

“—! Let’s go, everyone!”

Just when I thought Nanase-san was about to break out in a rage, she just opened the door, and left the classroom, the others following her. Recess is about to end, what are they doing?

“A-Asahina-san? What happened?”

“Yajima-san?”

A timid Yajima-san called out to me. Even her, what’s going on?

“It’s nothing. Nanase-san and the others were talking about something weird, which confused me. They made it sound like there was some sort of mistake in Haruto and me going out…Nonsensical, don’t you agree?”

“—Eh? Asahina…san?” She froze up.

Everyone is acting weird. She’s gotten pale as well. I wanted to call out to her, but she just shook in fear, not listening to me.

“Hey, Ruri! Show me your notes! I forgot my English translation homework! I used a translation app, but there’s one I don’t get—So, please!”

“Eh…O-Okay…” Yajima-san seemed reluctant to part, as if she wanted to say something, but eventually gave up.

I gave her a calm smile to cheer her up, but her small eyes opened wide. Still reluctant, she returned to her seat. Well anyway, my boyfriend Haruto is more important now. I took out my smartphone, and booted up my LINE app. Out of boredom, I checked my chat messages with Haruto.

…I felt a wave of joy and content filling my heart. Just by looking at the words he sent me, I felt relief. It was an exchange with no deeper meaning, and yet I was so happy, so blissful. I never would have imagined to experience such love. A short while ago, I hated coming to school, and it all feels like a lie now.

…Huh? Why is it that I hated coming to school before? I was able to meet the person I like, right? It makes no sense. Why…did I hide my feelings towards my family?

“…Ouch!”

My head hurt again. Whatever, thinking about something nonsensical like that is a waste of time. As long as I think of Haruto, and feel happy with him—nothing else matters. I want to hurry up and meet Haruto.

With these feelings, I somehow made it through the fourth period, and the chime rang. It was the sound of blessing for me. At the same time as the teacher left the room, I got up from my seat. I want to hurry and meet Haruto. I want to be together with him. These feelings were overflowing, and wouldn’t stop. Immediately, I headed over to his classroom, when—

“Wait a second.”

Standing down the hallway I arrived at was—

“Bizen-kun? You’re alone? Where’s Haruto and the others?” I looked around, but I couldn’t find anybody else.

It’s rare for Bizen-kun to come here on his own.

“Ah, no worries. I told Haruto that you won’t be coming today.”

“Eh!? W-Why?”

“It’s not anything crazy. I just want to talk about something.”

Talk about something? More importantly, why would he lie about that?

“I kinda don’t want to talk about it here. How about we go up to the rooftop and talk about it? Wouldn’t want anybody to hear it.” Bizen-kun wouldn’t listen to me, just walking on ahead as he showed me his back.

“Wait a second! I don’t understand this! What do you want to talk about—”

“It’ll be done right away. Just something I want to confirm.”

“C-Confirm?”

“Yeah, that. I just…” He didn’t turn towards me, and spoke like he was ordering lunch at the cafeteria. “—Want to know about that game you all are doing.”