Remon Yakishio… a shocking love thief!?
Late in the summer vacation.
By chance, Yanami and I were chatting away at a cafe when we witnessed a truly surprising sight.
Yakishio was with her crush, Ayano… alone.
To make matters even more complicated, we ran into Ayano's girlfriend, the winning heroine Chihaya Asagumo, who seemed to be tailing the two of them.
"I suspect Mitsuki-san is cheating on me with Yakishio-san."
Before we knew it, Yanami and I were caught up in the drama, dragged into helping Asagumo uncover the truth.
I couldn't believe Yakishio would do something like that. But the look on her face when it was just the two of them and the raw emotion she showed were hard to ignore.
The second volume of this already wildly popular rom-com about losing heroines is finally here!
Prologue
I was on the way home from the Seibunkan Bookstore near the station.
As I stepped off the tram with its bright red body, the intense sunlight forced me to avert my eyes.
Despite it being late August, there was no sign that the heat would be letting up any time soon.
Crossing the pedestrian walkway, I couldn't help but let a grin slip as the texture of the book cover in my hand registered in my palm. That's right. I have finally gotten my hands on the latest volume of <Anyone Who Calls Me Flat-Chested Can Step On Dog Shit>.
This novel is an intense battle story set in a dystopia where social ranks are determined by breast size.
At the end of the previous volume, it was revealed that the protagonist's best friend, Kirari-chan, had grown into a C-cup and had turned into an enemy. There's no way I'm not dying to know what happens next.
Kazuhiko Nukumizu, Class 1-C. Member of Tsuwabuki High School's Literature Club.
A peaceful summer day. It's not even past 11 AM yet. I should head home quickly and enjoy the cover art and illustrations in the comfort of my air-conditioned room.
As the sound of cicadas poured over my back, I arrived home, only to be greeted by a clear voice ringing out in the entryway.
"Welcome home, onii-sama!"
Running toward me is my little sister, who is two years younger, Kaju Nukumizu.
She's a bit of a bro-con, which is her only real flaw, but she's a sweet and adorable kid. Today, she's wearing a denim overall skirt and has a big ribbon tied to her long black hair.
"What's the matter? Why are you so flustered?"
"Onii-sama! This is serious! It's an emergency!"
Excitedly hopping up and down, Kaju held a wall calendar in her hands.
"An emergency? And why are you carrying that thing?"
"Because, because! We have to set the interview date immediately! Actually, shouldn't we do it right now?"
…I have no idea what she's talking about.
"Alright, calm down first, Kaju. Once you've settled down, tell me what's going on."
"Yes, Kaju has calmed down! She suddenly showed up when Kaju was preparing lunch! Oh, and lunch today is yesterday's leftover curry!"
Yeah, no, she hasn't calmed down at all. At least I figured out what's for lunch.
"Ah, second-day curry is delicious. So, someone came over, huh?"
"Yes! But Kaju can't dress like this in front of a guest! Kaju will go change, so please take care of her!"
"Huh? Hey."
"The guest is in the living room!"
Leaving just those words behind, Kaju dashed up the stairs.
Why is she so panicked just because someone came over?
Puzzled, I lined up my shoes neatly by the doorway when I noticed a pair of cute women's sneakers.
They are too big for Kaju and far too youthful in design for Mom.
I glanced down the hallway. There was a faint sense of someone's presence.
"…No way, it can't be."
There's no point in overthinking it. I headed to the living room.
Chapter 1: Anna Yanami Wants to Drop Hints
"I'm home…"
Nervously, I opened the door to reveal the familiar sight of our home.
The living and dining areas are combined into a spacious 18-tatami mat space. The TV has been left on, airing a rerun of a travel show.
Everything is normal- except for the girl sitting at the table with a spoon in her hand, her mouth wide open.
"Oh, Nukumizu-kun, it's been a while. Thanks for having me."
After greeting me casually, the girl promptly shoveled a spoonful of curry, piled high, into her mouth.
"Wha-!? Why are you here!?"
The girl, her cheeks stuffed full of curry, is none other than Anna Yanami.
She's the quintessential losing heroine, who had recently been replaced by a transfer student and lost her childhood friend to them.
Yanami swallowed her curry and turned to me with a cheerful smile, still oblivious to the grain of rice stuck to her cheek.
"This curry is so good! It's one of those, right? Second-day curries?"
"Uh, yeah, it is. But why on Earth are you eating it at my house?"
"Well, you see, it's mmphff hmm mmphf mphphfh pmmph mphhm…"
Don't talk while eating.
So, the "guest" Kaju mentioned was her. I let out a sigh and took a seat across from Yanami.
…Alright, looks like she has swallowed.
"Yanami-san, if you're planning to come over, maybe let me know beforehand?"
A reasonable complaint, but all I got in response was a half-lidded stare.
"Nukumizu-kun, you don't even check LINE, do you? I did send a message saying I was coming over."
Wait, really? I checked my phone, and sure enough, there was a little notification badge on the LINE app icon.
"Sorry, I didn't notice. Maybe send me a text or something to let me know you sent a message on LINE?"
"No, no, it shows up on the notification screen, doesn't it?"
"Notification screen? Oh, this thing?"
Huh. So that's not just to let me know when my mobile game stamina has fully recovered.
I averted my gaze awkwardly, trying to cover for my ignorance.
"Okay, so I get why you're here, but what exactly do you need?"
We have officially become friends on the last day of the first term.
Still, we aren't so close that she can casually drop by my house. But… well, she's the kind of girl who would unapologetically show up and eat curry.
She's almost done with her curry already, using her spoon to scrape up the remaining rice and sauce skillfully.
After savoring the last bite, she clasped her hands together in gratitude.
"Thanks for the meal! So, yeah, I'm going around delivering somen to my friends' houses."
"Somen?"
I noticed the large paper bag sitting on the table.
So this is an ochugen gift? Should I give her a set of cooking oil in return? She seems like she would appreciate it. [TL: It's a custom where you give gifts to people you're close to twice a year. One is in July (ochugen), and the other one is in December (oseibo).]
Curious, I peeked into the bag. It was packed full of "economy-size" packages of somen.
"Doesn't seem like a typical ochugen gift. Why so much?"
"You wanna know? You totally wanna know, right?"
"Not particularly."
Ignoring me, Yanami dabbed her mouth with a tissue and launched into her explanation.
"So, it turns out my dad's paycheck this month came in the form of somen."
"His paycheck? How does that even happen?"
"Well, there were… circumstances, and all of July's wages were paid entirely in somen. Just somen."
For some reason, even the cicadas outside seemed to stop chirping in shock.
"An entire month's paycheck worth of somen… That's gotta be a huge amount."
"Yep. We've got about 300,000 yen worth of somen at home."
"Just to clarify, 'somen' isn't some kind of code word, right? Is it legal?"
"Of course, it's legal! What kind of family do you think we are?"
Yanami gazed wistfully out the window, and I found myself following her gaze.
"I've eaten… a lifetime's worth of somen…"
The blue August sky stretched above us, the heat still oppressive. Yet the shape of the clouds hinted at summer's inevitable end.
"So this is just a somen giveaway, huh? If you have got that much, why not share some with your neighbors?"
"We have been doing that, but… lately, they have started pretending not to be home."
Even somen can cause neighborhood drama, apparently.
"I see…"
"Yeah, it's like that…"
We both sat there in reflective silence.
"Now you understand why I was eating curry at your house, right?"
"Yeah, I don't really get it, but sure, I guess it makes sense. Want seconds?"
"No, I'm good. Two plates are enough for me."
So she already had a second helping.
At first, I was thrown off, but in the end, it was just a friend bringing some somen to share. No big deal.
"Nukumizu-kun, you didn't see the LINE message from this morning, did you? About the emergency Literature Club meeting?"
"Huh? That was a thing?"
I hadn't noticed at all. Panicking, I grabbed my phone and checked. Sure enough, there was a message in the Literature Club group chat from Prez, asking everyone to meet in the clubroom tomorrow afternoon.
Judging by the chat history, Yanami was planning to attend, too. I quickly sent a reply confirming I would be there.
"Anyway, Yanami-san, don't you have other stuff to do? Are you sure you should be lounging around here?"
"Wait, are you telling me to go home?"
Yanami pouted, her lips sticking out like a sulking child.
"Partly, yeah. But weren't you delivering somen to your friends or something?"
"Yeah, I've got one more stop to make after this- wait, what was that first part?"
"Nothing at all. Just saying it's going to get hotter this afternoon, so you might want to finish your errands sooner rather than later."
"...Well, let's have some pears first."
Yanami's eyes lit up with excitement.
"Pear?"
I turned toward the sudden presence behind me and saw Kaju, still in her school uniform, holding a plate of sliced pears.
"Yanami-san, Kaju has peeled some pears. Would you like some?"
"I would love some. Thanks, Kaju-chan!"
…Right, I had forgotten entirely about Kaju. And wait, since when did these two get all buddy-buddy?
Kaju sat down beside me, eyes sparkling like an eager puppy.
"Oh, this pear is delicious."
"It's from our relatives in Kojima. By the way, Yanami-san, may Kaju ask you a few questions?"
As she spoke, she casually pulled out a notepad and a voice recorder.
…She's really going to conduct an interview.
"I don't mind, but is this for homework or something?"
"Yes! Something like that! Let's start with your date of birth, blood type, family structure, hobbies, special skills, and how you first met onii-sama-"
Shit, Kaju's switch had been flipped. I quickly stepped in.
"Uh, hey, Yanami-san is busy, remember? Let's save this for another time."
"But! But! Kaju needs to hear some heartwarming school stories about onii-sama!"
That's an absolutely unreasonable request.
"Okay, okay, let's head back to your room, alright? Up you go~"
"Ugh…"
After somehow managing to get Kaju out of the room, Yanami let out a casual remark.
"So, you make her call you 'onii-sama', Nukumizu-kun?"
"I don't make her. It’s important that we’re clear on this."
"And she's super cute, right? Small face, silky hair…"
"Yeah, people say she looks a lot like me."
"Who says that? Introduce me to them."
Hell no. Finish your food and go home.
I rested my elbow on the table and turned my gaze to the window. Wisps of cirrocumulus clouds scattered across the sky.
The sky felt higher than before. The cries of cicadas were slowly being replaced by the soft calls of cicadas in the morning and evening.
"Yanami-san, autumn's creeping closer, little by little."
"Which means… it's peak pear season. You could've just said you wanted more, you know."
Munching on her pear, Yanami held out the plate toward me.
"...Thanks."
I abandoned my attempt at being sentimental and reached for another piece.
There are just ten days left of summer vacation.
And only later would I realize, Yanami, sitting there that day, was the harbinger of the peaceful summer's end.
*
The next afternoon.
As I stepped through the gates of Tsuwabuki High School, located near Aidaimae Station, I adjusted my uniform tie.
Opening the door to the clubroom, I found someone had arrived before me.
The Literature Club's room had one entire wall covered in bookshelves reaching up to the ceiling. In front of them, a petite girl sat on a folding chair, engrossed in a novel.
A breeze made the curtains billow softly, momentarily obscuring her from view.
Chika Komari.
Her hair was tied into a small pigtail, and her long bangs swayed slightly in the dry air.
She's a first-year member of the Literature Club. After being rejected by the club president, she officially joined the ranks of the losing heroines.
When I first met her in the first semester, she was as timid as a frightened hamster.
Starting with text conversations on her phone, she gradually opened up to me to the point where we could exchange light banter. I want those who called me socially awkward to reflect on this.
"Komari, good work. It's been a while."
"Ueh…? A-Ah…"
Komari stammered as if trying to say something, then pulled out her phone from her pocket.
Her fingers moved across the screen at impressive speed before she thrust it toward me.
<Komari: You're early. Just read a book until everyone's here.>
"Huh? Oh."
She returned her gaze to her book.
...Wait, it feels like her affection level has been reset. Isn't this gacha game too harsh on inactive players?
"Uh, Komari?"
"U-Uh…"
She fumbled with her phone again, but I shook my head.
"Never mind. It's nothing."
Feeling a strong sense of deja vu, I took a seat a few chairs away.
After a while of silently fiddling with my phone, even I felt the awkwardness in the air. I occasionally threw out comments that didn't require a response.
Rushing to fill the gauge is a bad idea. Let's melt the troublesome girl's heart with safe topics like cute animals.
"Ugh… n-no more rodent talk…"
About 20 minutes later, Komari finally cracked- not giving up, but opened up.
"Come on, just a little more about the difference between gerbils and hamsters-"
"I-I'll just google it myself."
Google-sensei will never let us down. Besides, the goal was to have a conversation with Komari. Mission accomplished.
As I contentedly gazed at my phone, the clubroom door opened with a loud thud.
When I looked up, I saw Yanami entering the clubroom, holding a cardboard box with both hands while using her foot to keep the door open.
"Good work, you two. You're early."
I stood up and took the cardboard box from her, placing it on the desk.
"Thanks, Nukumizu-kun. The senpais haven't arrived yet."
Yanami swung her tired arms and sat down on a chair. Komari muttered something under her breath and moved her chair to the corner of the room.
"This box is surprisingly heavy. Is it somen?"
"I thought I would share it with everyone. Komari-chan, take some home with you too."
Komari nodded silently from the corner of the room.
Yanami pulled her chair closer to me. I subtly moved away.
"...Nukumizu-kun, did you do something to Komari-chan? Like pull on her hair or something?"
"I didn't do anything. She's just like that until she gets used to you, so don't raise your voice or move suddenly, okay?"
"Got it. It's like a cat cafe, huh."
I'm not sure if she's that cute.
We spent some time quietly, trying not to startle Komari when the two third-years showed up a little late.
The Literature Club president, Shintaro Tamaki, and vice president, Koto Tsukinoki.
They started dating during the July training camp and are supposed to be living a tough but enjoyable life as exam students.
"Sorry to keep you all waiting."
"Sorry, we made you come during summer break."
As the two sat down side by side, Komari moved her chair closer, looking relieved.
"Good work. It's been a while, huh."
Prez made a tired face at my words.
"Exam prep is really tough. I'm barely within the passing range, but…"
Prez glanced sideways as Tsukinoki-senpai looked away.
"I'm doing my best, you know? But, well, the exams won't run away, so I thought it's important to keep my own pace."
"Koto, even if exams don't run away, passing them can be elusive."
"If I fail all of them, maybe I'll just get a job. Permanent employment, haha-"
Tsukinoki-senpai joked as her eyes met Komari's.
The two exchanged glances and shared an indescribable smile. Prez held his head in his hands.
…Rest assured. These two are getting along just fine. That said, it doesn't mean Prez's struggles are any less.
Trying to change the atmosphere, Yanami raised her hand.
"So, what's on the agenda for today?"
"Oh, right."
Grateful for the assist, Prez started speaking again.
"The student council sent out a notice. Starting this year, all clubs have to report their summer vacation activity results. I wanted to talk to everyone about that today."
Summer vacation activity results? But it's already way past Obon. [TL: The festival usually takes place around July 13th to 16th, but some regions opt for August 13th to 16th.]
"Why is the student council bringing this up now?"
At my interjection, Prez gave a wry smile and glanced at Tsukinoki-senpai.
"Well, actually, they sent the notice back in July."
"It couldn't be helped. I was so busy with entrance exam studies and driving school that I completely forgot."
Tsukinoki-senpai waved a printout in her hand with a smile after pulling it from her pocket.
...Did she just say driving school? I want to call her out on that, but I'll let it slide. Prez already has enough on his plate.
Yanami reached out and took the printout.
"It says here that training camps count too. Wouldn't last month's beach trip work?"
"That was before summer vacation started. If it had been just one week later, it would've been fine."
Oh yeah, that's true. What else did we do after summer vacation started...?
"We've been updating our web novels."
"If that's all, it's no different from our usual activities, right? We need something special to count as a summer project. So, here's the idea."
Prez exchanged glances with Tsukinoki-senpai, who then pulled an A4-sized booklet from her bag.
"Look at this. I printed out everyone's web novels and put together a sample for a club magazine. Just adding a cover and a colophon makes it look pretty legit, right?"
Flipping through the sample, I saw that my ongoing rom-com was included, too.
"There are a lot of blank pages, though."
"This is just a prototype. For the final version, I was thinking of adding commentary and columns between everyone's stories. Just printing web novels as-is wouldn't really stand out as a club activity."
"Oh, mine's in here too."
Yanami peeked over my shoulder.
"Everyone, start thinking about which of your stories you want to include. Of course, you can also write something new if you’d like."
"B-But, Prez, w-what are you going to s-submit…?"
At Komari's question, Prez looked a little apologetic.
"I don't really have time to write something new, so I was thinking of putting in a diet version of my ongoing series. Just do whatever works best for you, okay?"
Meanwhile, Tsukinoki-senpai had been silently sketching something in her notebook.
"Senpai, what are you doing?"
"My new story got rejected by Shintaro as 'not suitable for publication'. So instead, I thought I would draw the cover illustration."
She was lightly sketching out a rough draft with a pencil. The drawing seemed to be of two men… and it already gave off an aura of impending rejection.
Now then, what should I submit? I opened the <Let's Become a Literary Master!> app on my phone while pondering.
My own series, <The Misfits of First Love Street>, has 5 chapters published so far. If I were to include something, it would probably have to be the first chapter…
On a whim, I checked the bookmarks, the number of readers, essentially. There are four. The same as the number of members in this room. That was no coincidence.
A wave of emptiness hit me as I remembered the one last club member who hadn't bookmarked it.
Remon Yakishio. The rising star of the Track and Field club and our Literature Club's token dual-clubber. A tanned, energetic girl whose best trait was her endless enthusiasm.
She has recently made her debut as a certified losing heroine, too.
"By the way, Prez, is Yakishio not coming today?"
"Oh, yeah, she said she had something to do. I'll fill her in later."
Well, Track and Field is her main club, after all. She mostly just uses this room as a convenient storage space, but at least she's aware she belongs here.
As everyone checked their own novels, Yanami suddenly spoke up.
"Alright! I'll continue the story I started writing during the training camp! What about you, Komari-chan?"
"Ueh…? Ah…"
Put on the spot, Komari quickly pulled out her phone and showed us the screen.
<I'm planning to write a new short story.>
"Wow, that's ambitious. What about you, Nukumizu-kun?"
"I think I'll revise the first chapter of my ongoing series and submit that."
Prez gave a big nod and clapped his hands together.
"Alright, that settles it. Once your manuscripts are ready, send them to me."
With that, both he and Tsukinoki-senpai stood up.
"Huh? You two are leaving already?"
At my words, Prez playfully grabbed Tsukinoki-senpai's arm.
"Gotta make sure Koto doesn't run away from her entrance exam prep. See you guys later."
"Bye, I'm counting on you all for the rest."
Just as Tsukinoki-senpai was about to follow the president out, she suddenly turned back as if remembering something.
"Oh, right. About tomorrow, can someone take my place and help out in the library?"
"Help out?"
"Remember how I mentioned that our club sends someone to the library committee every year? We're not full-time members, but we do help out with book organization. This year, I'm the representative, but I'm just too busy to make it."
Over Tsukinoki-senpai's shoulder, Prez added an explanation.
"When they get new books, they let us request titles. Plus, if we buy books with club funds, we get a discount through the library. It's a mutually beneficial relationship."
Listening to them, Komari hesitantly raised her hand.
"I-I can g-go..."
"I'm fine with going too."
"Really? The more, the merrier. It's good to stay on the library's good side."
Yanami put her hands together apologetically.
"Sorry, I already made plans for a reunion tomorrow."
"Don't worry about it. It was a last-minute request anyway. I'll send the details later."
With that, Prez and Tsukinoki-senpai finally waved goodbye and left.
Once their voices faded down the hallway, Komari, looking uneasy, closed the paperback book she had been reading and mumbled something softly before slipping out of the room.
Probably something like "see you" or "good work today".
Yanami stifled a yawn and stretched.
"Alright, I'm heading out too. Got a salon appointment to get ready for tomorrow."
Tomorrow, huh…? Right, she did mention a reunion.
"Wait, is Hakamada coming to that reunion too?"
"Of course. But it's not some big formal gathering, just a small get-together with Sosuke and a few old friends."
"Huh, sounds fun."
Even though I didn't mean it, my words got a bright smile out of Yanami.
"And Karen's coming too."
"...Himemiya-san?"
Karen Himemiya. The transfer student who joined our school in May.
And within just 2 months, she became the girlfriend of Yanami's childhood friend and crush, Sosuke Hakamada.
Yanami's definitely on the cute side, but when it comes to sheer presence and that unmistakable heroine aura, Karen Himemiya is on a whole other level. Not to mention, her chest is also bigger…
"...Uh, why is Himemiya-san, a transfer student, coming to your reunion?"
"In our friend group, it's kind of a thing to introduce your boyfriend or girlfriend when you start dating. It's not mandatory or anything, though."
Okay, that made sense. But considering that their middle school friends knew all about Yanami and Hakamada's relationship…
Is it really a good idea to bring his new girlfriend along to meet them…?
Seeing my concerned expression, Yanami gave me a reassuring nod.
"It's fine. I'm not the same person I was last semester. I've awakened to a new, kinder self, one that embraces everything around me with gratitude for the entire world."
"…Huh?"
There she goes. Yanami shrugged dumbfoundedly.
"Alright, let me explain it in a way even you can understand, Nukumizu-kun."
"I'm not expecting much, but go ahead."
"Listen, Sosuke and Karen are my best friends, right? If my best friends are happy, then that means I should be happy too, don't you think?"
…Um, I guess? I gave her a hesitant nod.
Pleased with my reaction, Yanami puffed up with pride and continued.
"So, by dating each other, those two have actually made me happy! At this point, all I can feel toward them is gratitude."
"...Well, if you say so, Yanami-san."
Something felt off about this sudden shift in mindset. Before I could question it further, Yanami pulled out a book.
The title is <108 Magical Phrases to Lighten Your Heart>.
"It's full of stuff like, 'you are fine just as you are,' and 'yakitori should be eaten straight off the skewer, don't bother taking it off first, just enjoy it whole.' …You want to borrow it, Nukumizu-kun?"
Ah, I see. It's one of those books you read when you're about to lose it.
Seeing Yanami's innocent smile, I simply shook my head in silence.
*
I was the last one to leave the clubroom. On my way out, I stopped by the vending machine in the courtyard.
As I stared at the sample magazine in my hands, I faintly heard voices coming from somewhere nearby.
"...Is…someone…there…?"
…Hm?
That was a weak, almost ghostly voice. I glanced around, but there wasn't a single soul in sight.
Maybe I imagined it? Lately, when I'm really into a light novel, I start hearing the characters' voices in my head. This is probably just another one of those moments.
Alright, let's just focus on getting my drink-
"...You…over…there."
"Nya!?"
Cut me some slack for the girly scream. I couldn't help it.
A pale hand had suddenly reached out from the shadows behind the dimly lit vending machine.
Frozen like a frightened deer, I instinctively took in the details, the scrunchie wrapped around the wrist, the decorated nails. I recognized this vibe. If I remember correctly, she's from the student council…
"Shikiya-senpai?"
At my call, the dark mass in the corner stirred slightly.
"...Ah, you're…the Literature Club…boy."
Leaning limply against the vending machine is Shikiya Yumeko, a second-year and a member of Tsuwabuki High School's student council.
Her wavy, ash-blond hair and dramatic, thick lashes contrasted starkly with her pale skin.
She's decked out in full-on gal fashion, exactly my type- except for one terrifying detail: her stark white colored contacts. And for some inexplicable reason, the shadows around her seem to deepen, as if she carries darkness itself.
"...Uh, what exactly are you doing here?"
"I came…to buy a drink…but I ran out of energy…Get one…for me…"
Shikiya-senpai held out some coins with her fingertips.
"Oh, uh, sure. Is tea okay?"
"I-LOHAS…peach-flavored…and open the cap…too…”
Picky.
Still, she's my senpai. I did as she asked, even twisting off the cap for her.
"It came out to the exact amount, so no change."
"Feed me…"
"…Huh?"
What did she just say?
Without waiting for my response, Shikiya-san closed her eyes, tilted her head back, and slightly parted her blood-drained lips.
"Uh… um… Shikiya-senpai…?"
What's with this kiss-awaiting kind of atmosphere?
I swallowed hard. Calm down. There's nothing indecent about this. All I'm doing is helping a senpai, who I barely know, drink some water even if the situation itself makes no sense.
"...Hurry…up…"
"Y-Yes!"
As a man, I couldn't just leave a girl hanging like this. Slowly, I tilted the bottle and let the water trickle into Shikiya-san's mouth.
A quiet courtyard tucked away behind the vending machines.
In the dim light, I could see her slender throat moving ever so slightly as she swallowed. A single drop escaped from the corner of her lips, trailing down in a thin, glistening line.
The sound of cicadas roared inside my head-
…What the hell am I even doing right now?
"Uh, can you drink by yourself now?"
Snapping back to my senses, I spoke up, only for Shikiya-san to suddenly grab my hand.
"Nya!?"
"…It's so full…it's about to overflow…"
Taking the bottle from me, she finally stepped out from the vending machine's shadow into the sunlight.
"Thanks…I feel alive again…"
So she was dead, huh? Also, she spilled a lot of that I-LOHAS.
"You can't just tilt the bottle sideways like that! Here, let me close the cap."
As I twisted the cap back on for her, she wordlessly handed me something else. A pink, frilly handkerchief.
"Wipe my mouth…"
"Please wipe it yourself if you have a handkerchief. Sheesh, whatever."
It reminded me of when I was three. Back then, even though Kaju ate neatly in front of our parents, whenever it was just the two of us, she would always make a mess.
I ended up taking care of her every meal.
"There, now dry your clothes yourself. Your ribbon's wet, too."
I tried to return the now-damp handkerchief, but Shikiya-san made no move to take it.
"Senpai? Uh, your handkerchief?"
"By the way…Koto-san- Tsukinoki-senpai…how is she doing…?"
"I just saw her. She's been busy with entrance exam studies lately."
"Tamaki-san and her…they really started dating…?"
As she spoke, Shikiya-senpai wobbled precariously.
"...Uh, yeah, they did."
"I…see…"
Muttering to herself, she suddenly swayed toward me. I sidestepped just in time, watching as she staggered off toward the school building.
Only when she disappeared inside did I let out a relieved sigh.
She even knows Prez, huh? What exactly is their connection?
"Shoot, I forgot to return her handkerchief."
I debated going after her, but… dealing with her again would take more energy than I had right now.
I'll return it eventually. Maybe through the mail or something- just so I don't have to see her in person.
*
The next afternoon. I pushed open the door to Tsuwabuki's library.
Behind the counter, a girl from the library committee is wholly absorbed in her laptop, typing away with full concentration.
I hesitated for a moment before speaking up.
"Um, excuse me. I-"
"Sorry, but the library's closed today for book inventory."
"Oh, no, I'm not here to borrow books. I'm Nukumizu from the Literature Club. I came to help out. What should I do?"
The girl's fingers paused over the keyboard, and she looked up. Her pale, delicate face is framed by a single long braid draped over her shoulder.
"Oh, you're the helper from the Literature Club. Thanks, Koto-senpai told me about you."
She smoothed down her long skirt as she stood up and stepped out from behind the counter. Judging by the school emblem on her sleeve, she's a second-year.
"We could really use the help. We're short on hands during summer break. Come with me."
"Ah, sure."
As I passed by her, I stole a quick glance at her profile.
A slender frame, delicate features, and an overall fragile aura.
…Yeah. This is exactly what a library committee member or Literature Club girl should look like. She has a bit of that tragic heroine vibe, like she could be a young widow or something.
She led me toward the back of the library, smiling slightly.
"I'm glad the Literature Club got a new member. That's a bit of a relief."
"Uh, well… I was actually a ghost member until recently."
"Looking forward to working with you. One of the girls from your club is already here, so go ahead and help her out."
She pointed with her pale fingers toward the 900 section. Literature.
Behind the rows of bookshelves, I spotted Komari mumbling to herself as she examined the labels on the books.
"Komari, I'm here."
At my call, she peeked up at me through her bangs with a sharp glare.
"Y-You're late, Nukumizu. T-Take care of the second half of the l-list."
"Got it. Let's get this done quick."
I grabbed my list and started checking the books.
Alright, first, I need to sort them by label order and make sure none are missing.
…This is actually pretty dull. I talked all big, but now I'm just getting sleepy.
"Hey, Komari, you said you were writing a new story for the club magazine, right? Have you decided on what it's gonna be?"
I expected her to brush me off, but instead, she took the bait for some casual conversation to keep me awake.
"Y-Yeah… I-I already wrote it… I-It's an i-isekai r-romance…"
No way. Meanwhile, I'm still struggling just to revise my first chapter.
"That was fast. Did you upload it already?"
"I… uploaded it last night…"
As she spoke, a satisfied little smile tugged at the corners of her lips.
"What's up? You look kinda happy."
"I-I made it… on the d-daily rankings…"
"Huh? That's awesome. So it's an isekai romance, huh?"
I pulled out my phone. Let's see… how do you check the rankings by genre again?
Clicking around at random, I accidentally landed on the overall rankings, where only the chosen few, the true warriors of <Narou>, could claim a spot.
As I scrolled, a familiar pen name caught my eye- Kuon Usagi.
"Wait… is this your pen name, Komari? Hold on—you're ranked 8th overall!? Single-digit!?"
"E-Ehehe… E-Every time I refresh the page… my points k-keep going up…"
Komari, unable to contain her excitement, gave a tiny, delighted hop in place.
On <Narou>, the top 300 stories make it onto the daily overall rankings. Even getting on the list is tough, but reaching the single digits? That's like a whole other dimension.
"Uwah, you have already broken 3,000 points."
Up until now, Komari had been writing ayakashi-themed stories, a genre that doesn't exactly rake in views on web novel sites.
And yet, even as a newbie in a niche category, she still managed to break four digits in points, something she never failed to flex on me about.
Now, with a short story pulling in over 3,000 points in a single night, she's about to go full mount on me.
"W-Well, p-points don't really m-matter, anyway…"
"Yeah, you totally weren't rubbing it in my face the other day."
"T-The most important thing is w-writing what you l-love. S-So, just keep d-doing your best, N-Nukumizu."
"Uwah, that's painfully condescending."
Damn it. So this is what it feels like to be on the losing side.
Still, just because she has a hundred times my points doesn't mean her story is necessarily good.
I clicked on Komari's novel to see for myself-
*
Literature Club Report - Summer Edition
<A High and Proud Annulment!> by Chika Komari
"Lady Sylvia Luxeed. I'm hereby breaking off our engagement!"
The abrupt declaration left me speechless.
Apparently, I'm being accused of attempted murder of Baroness Anne.
And the one delivering this decree in my own mansion's reception room is none other than His Highness Gustave, the first prince of this kingdom.
He was my childhood friend, my fiance since before I could even remember.
With his golden curls and deep blue eyes framed by lashes longer than mine, his gaze alone could steal the hearts of those who looked upon him. The rumors that he possessed the Charm Eye skill were completely believable.
But right now, those mesmerizing eyes are filled with anger and contempt.
I reached out toward him, despite knowing he would never take my hand.
"Your Highness… Gustave…"
"Sylvia, if you have any excuses, you can save them for the convent-"
"Wait! The graduation party event hasn't even started yet!"
Gustave froze, mouth slightly open.
…That's right. This world is none other than the setting of an otome game.
I was once a normal high school girl, but when I woke up, I found myself inside my favorite game, reincarnated as the villainess Sylvia Luxeed.
Thanks to my careful flag management, the story has been progressing smoothly toward the true ending.
And today was supposed to be the final chapter, the Graduation Party at the Royal Magic Academy. It was at the party that Gustave was supposed to publicly annul our engagement.
Afterward, my family would disown me, and I would be sent off to a remote convent-
"If you don't break off our engagement at the party, everything is ruined! Do you have any idea how much effort I put into setting up these flags and managing this route!?"
There are only a few attendants here, my maid and his aide. No real witnesses. That's a huge problem.
"Sylvia, what are you even talking about…?"
Gustave furrowed his brows, taking a step back, probably thinking I had lost my mind.
…Honestly, I'm panicking as well.
The popular character Villainess Sylvia was supposed to get her happy ending in the sequel in the form of an expansion pack released later.
At the party, after I delivered my dramatic retort to the prince, a neighboring kingdom's tsundere prince was supposed to fall for me.
"What an interesting woman."
That's the line he said. If the first prince annulled our engagement here and now, then my perfect ending would never come true.
"A-Anyway! Your cruelty toward Baroness Anne is inexcusable. However, if your engagement is publicly broken off before witnesses, your reputation will suffer even more. Consider this my final act of mercy as your former fiance."
Wait, hold on. I don't need that kind of kindness. I would just be dumped and sent to the convent at this rate.
"Understood! In that case, let's just head to the party right away. I'll publicly humiliate Lady Anne at the venue, and then you can deliver my judgment and annul our engagement!"
Alright, it's a bit forceful, but this should get me back on track toward the true ending. I lifted the hem of my skirt and prepared to leave the room.
"W-Wait! But… the annulment has already been finalized…"
Gustave's feeble protest reached my back. Hands on my hips, I turned to glare at him.
"Enough of this nonsense! You're the Crown Prince. What are you doing sneaking around like this!? Have some dignity and proclaim our engagement annulment properly at the graduation party!"
"No, listen, I'm trying to tell you-"
Ignoring him completely, I grabbed his arm.
"Let's go! And don't forget the official investigation documents detailing my heinous crimes! Have the carriage prepared immediately!"
No time to waste.
For the sake of my true ending, this annulment must be declared loud and proud-
*
…Huh. I see.
Honestly, compared to my own web novel that has exactly zero external readers, this definitely has more appeal.
As I debated how many points to give it, I noticed Komari frowning at her phone.
"Komari? Something wrong?"
"Y-Yakishio just… sent me a message…"
"Huh, so you girls text each other?"
When did they get so close?
"W-We go running t-together s-sometimes…"
Komari…runs? Ah, but come to think of it-
"Now that I think about it, you did mention something like that on the last day of school. Wait, you're actually running?"
"I-It's your f-fault, N-Nukumizu…"
"Yes. I'm sorry."
I had no choice but to apologize.
On the last day of the semester, Komari had taken Yakishio out for a running lesson as a favor to give me some alone time to talk with Yanami.
I never imagined she would actually end up regularly running with her.
"You could have just said no, you know?"
At my casual remark, Komari fidgeted and looked down.
"I-I… w-when someone's all pushy and g-gung-ho about it… I just… c-can't seem to refuse…"
…That's a personality trait straight out of hentai.
"Tell me more about- ahem, I mean, if you don't want to do it, I can talk to Yakishio for you."
"G-Go die…"
Okay, maybe I let my honest thoughts slip for a second, but harsh.
"I-It's not like I hate it… She matches my pace, g-gave me running shoes, and… w-when I get tired, she even carries me…"
Komari fidgeted with her fingertips. Turns out Yakishio's surprisingly considerate. If that's the case, then I guess I don't need to interfere.
"B-But… running at 6 AM is b-brutal…"
Yeah, that sounds awful.
"Well, I mean, early mornings are good for your health. Some study or whatever said so."
"…Y-You totally just made that up, d-didn't you?"
"Spot on."
I decided to wrap this up quickly and resumed checking the books, starting from the M section.
After a while, Komari suddenly spoke up again.
"H-Hey… d-does Yakishio…h-have any siblings…?"
That was random.
"Never really asked. Though I think she mentioned having a little sister once."
"T-Then… h-have you… um… s-seen Yakishio in town with s-someone else lately…?"
I shook my head. What is she even getting at?
"Why? Did something happen?"
"Eh? N-No, it's n-nothing…"
She sounded evasive, but pressing her for details seemed like too much effort.
With a sigh, I stretched my aching back and got back to work.
*
Two hours later. After finishing up my work, I parted ways with Komari and headed toward the clubroom.
I was way more exhausted than I expected, so I decided to change my plans. I would stop by and take a break before heading home.
As I walked along the hallway connecting the west school building, someone suddenly tapped me on the shoulder from behind.
"Heading to the Literature Club today, Nukumizu?"
The voice belongs to Mitsuki Ayano.
An old cram school buddy from middle school- and Yakishio's crush. Tall, glasses-wearing, and effortlessly handsome, he's also a top student.
He's dating Chihaya Asagumo, another classmate from our cram school days.
For some reason, whenever he sees me, he always strikes up a conversation.
"I had something to do in the library. What about you, Ayano? Why are you here this late?"
It's already around 4 PM, which is a bit late to be showing up at school during summer break.
"Eh, just some stuff. Oh yeah, is anyone in the Literature Club room? I need to return a book I borrowed."
"I'm heading there now. I can drop it off for you if you want."
"That would be great. Thanks."
As Ayano handed me the book, I noticed something on his wrist- a finely crafted bracelet. It doesn't really fit his usual image.
"This thing really stands out, huh?"
"Huh? Well, yeah, a bit."
I wasn't particularly interested, but he looked like he wanted to talk about it. And sometimes, listening is just part of socializing.
"Chihaya gave it to me. She told me to wear it all the time, no matter what. Man, I don't know what to do with her. The way she gave it to me, too. It was such a surprise, like, really…"
"Huh."
Despite his words, his face is completely lovestruck. Is this one of those "fake complaints that are actually a flex" situations? Considering how everyone around me is dealing with rejection lately, it's almost refreshing.
With that thought, I half-heartedly nodded along and listened to his shameless bragging.
*
After parting ways with Ayano, I arrived at the Literature Club room.
The door is slightly open.
Did Komari come here? Or did someone forget to close the door? I pushed it open.
"Hey, it's you, Nukkun."
"Hm!?"
I slammed the door shut.
Inside the clubroom is Remon Yakishio. More specifically, Yakishio in the middle of changing.
"At least close the door when you're changing!"
"Huh? What's with you all of a sudden?"
Ignoring my panic, Yakishio casually stepped out of the clubroom.
Still buttoning up her uniform blouse, one button at a time.
"Why do you always just strip in front of people like it's nothing!?"
"I had something on underneath. Besides, I show more skin during practice anyway."
Yakishio tilted her head confusedly halfway through.
"...Always?"
Oh, right. She didn't remember what happened in the gym storage room last month.
"Never mind. Just stop changing in the hallway."
"Eh? Hey, wait-"
I shoved Yakishio back into the clubroom and quickly shut the door. There. Crisis averted.
"Nukkun, you're way too uptight. Here, put this in my bag."
She casually tossed me a rolled-up towel.
I caught the towel and quickly shoved it into Yakishio's sports bag, doing my best to avoid looking at the practice clothes mixed in with it.
Wait, why did I follow her into the clubroom? Now that I think about it, this situation is not a good look…
Feeling restless, I sat down and glanced over at Yakishio. She, on the other hand, continued changing without a care in the world.
At least she has her blouse on now. I let out a small sigh of relief.
So that's how you tie that ribbon, huh…?
"Anyway, Yakishio, why are you changing here?"
"The Field and Track Club's room is tiny. First-years always have to wait their turn, so when I'm in a hurry, I just use this place."
She adjusted her ribbon while checking her reflection in a small hand mirror.
"More importantly, what about you, Nukkun? It's summer break."
"I was helping out in the library. Oh, and you forgot this."
I pointed to her trademark lemon-shaped hair clip, which had been left on the desk.
"...Huh? I thought I put it in my bag. Why is it on the desk?"
Looking puzzled, she picked up the clip.
"So you take it off for practice?"
"I usually wear it, but I just polished it yesterday. Didn't want it getting dirty."
Hmm. Surprisingly meticulous. Well, even though Yakishio's like this, she's still one of the most popular girls in the school. I guess she cares about appearances, at least.
"Oh yeah, Tamaki-senpai messaged me yesterday. You guys are making a club magazine, right?"
Yakishio asked as she adjusted the angle of her hair clip.
"Yeah, as part of our summer activities. I'm just revising an old story for it. What about you?"
"Hmm, what should I do? I could just do a picture diary, but I want to write something too~"
After a final check in the mirror, she clenched her fist and mumbled, "Alright." She seems to be spending a lot of effort on this.
Then, a cheerful notification sound chimed from her phone. She took it out, and the moment she saw the screen, a smile spread across her face.
"What's wrong?"
"Nope, nothing. Anyway, I'm heading out~"
"Hey, you dropped your socks."
"It's okay. Don't worry about it~"
With light steps and a bright smile, she left the clubroom.
"But I do worry about it…"
Sighing, I picked up the forgotten socks with a handkerchief and stuffed them into Yakishio's bag.
Phew. Finally, I can relax.
I pulled out my paperback and started reading, but for some reason, the words just wouldn't stick.
Closing the book, I leaned back and stared blankly at the ceiling.
An empty school during summer break… A boy and a girl who used to be close…
…Nah, no way.
Shaking my head to clear the unnecessary thoughts, I reopened my book and tried again.
*
The next morning. Still half-asleep, I pushed open the living room door, only to be greeted by a cheerful voice as if I had been expected.
"Good morning, onii-sama! Breakfast is ready!"
Standing there in an apron, Kaju smiled as she pulled out a chair for me.
"It's already 9 AM. They left ages ago."
It's that late already? I must have lost track of time last night while revising my novel for the club magazine.
Kaju giggled softly and placed a plate of fluffy pancakes in front of me.
"Onii-sama, Kaju tried making extra fluffy pancakes today. Hope they turned out well."
As she spoke, she drizzled a sweet-smelling topping over them.
"Kaju mixed some rice flour into the batter to experiment a little, along with this peach white compote. Kaju shall pour on plenty."
Noticing a bit of compote on her finger, she hesitated for a moment, then popped it into her mouth.
"Mmm… It's sweet and tangy, onii-sama. Oh, and Kaju made lemonade, too. Go ahead, dig in."
The pancakes in front of me looked like something straight out of a cafe, topped with powdered sugar and a sprig of mint.
"Thanks. Well then, time to eat."
I picked up my knife and fork, but then I noticed another untouched plate of pancakes sitting at the table.
"Kaju, you haven't eaten yet?"
"Oh, right! Kaju got so caught up making breakfast and completely forgot about my own."
Laughing sheepishly, she gave herself a little knock on the head. She went through all that trouble preparing everything, only to forget to feed herself? What a cute little airhead.
I was about to move her plate across the table, but before I could, Kaju slid into the seat right beside me.
"Well then, onii-sama, let's eat."
"Yeah, let's eat."
And so, our peaceful breakfast began. As I cut into the fluffy pancakes, Kaju peeked up at me with a slight frown.
"You went to school yesterday too, didn't you? Have you been busy lately?"
"I had some club stuff to take care of. I guess you could call it busy…?"
Honestly, I had been so free before that I had nothing to compare it to.
"But that's wonderful! The new friend you made. Would that be Yanami-san, who visited the other day?"
"Mm, I guess."
I answered vaguely, popping a piece of pancake into my mouth.
I had told Kaju I had made some new friends, but I hadn't gone into detail about who they were.
It felt embarrassing to bring up, and besides, I had a feeling she would make a big deal out of it.
"You should invite her over properly next time! She'll need to go through an interview, of course."
She won't need an interview. I took a sip of lemonade.
"It's not that serious. We're not close enough to be going out together or anything."
"That's how it always starts. Besides-"
Kaju's eyes sparkled as she leaned closer.
"She is so pretty up close! She absolutely must learn the secret flavors of the Nukumizu household! First, we'll start with miso soup, then move on to the basics of Japanese, Western, and Chinese cuisine-"
Her words started picking up speed. Alright, it's time to hit the brakes.
"Calm down. Sure, she's a girl, but she's just a friend."
"Ara, but onii-sama, once people get to know you, how could they not develop feelings? Even if she's a friend now, you should consider where it might lead!"
Then, as if hit by a sudden realization, Kaju inched even closer.
"Wait! Could it be that you're interested in someone else from the Literature Club!? The tanned girl is so lively, and the petite one, though she surprised me at first- actually, Kaju could probably share clothes with her, so we would definitely get along! So, so-"
With her excitement reaching dangerous levels, I raised both hands in a stop gesture.
"Alright, Kaju. Take a deep breath and count to six. Ready? One, two, three-"
"Four, five, six…"
Finishing the count, Kaju placed a hand over her chest and took a deep breath.
Once she was finally calm, I gave her a little pat on the head and praised her.
"Meow~"
As Kaju rubbed her head against my hand like a cat, I casually brushed her off and continued eating.
As I chewed on the sweet, fluffy pancake, my phone, sitting on the table, lit up with a notification.
Glancing at the screen, I spotted a surprising name.
<Yana-chan: You awake? If you're free, wanna grab some tea today?>
Why is Yana-chan- Yanami suddenly inviting me out for tea?
I froze for a moment at the unexpected message. Taking advantage of my distraction, Kaju slipped past my arm and plopped herself onto my lap.
"Onii-sama, is this from Yanami-san? She's inviting you for tea!"
"Uh, yeah, I guess…"
"How wonderful! Having tea alone with a girl~"
She beamed at me.
"It's almost like a date."
"It's not like that. She probably just needs to talk about something."
How am I supposed to answer? I took a deep breath.
A sudden tea invitation, first thing in the morning. If I remember correctly, Yanami had her reunion yesterday…
My guts tell me it's trouble.
Under Kaju's intense gaze, I typed a short reply: <I'm busy today.>
"Onii-sama, are you sure?"
"Yeah. It's probably nothing urgent, and it doesn't have to be me."
Just as I sent the message, Yanami's name popped up on my screen, an incoming call.
…Ugh. I went through the trouble of turning her down, and now she's calling?
Before I could decide what to do, Kaju, still smiling, placed my phone in my hand.
"Please pick it up, onii-sama. You shouldn't keep a friend waiting."
…Fine. But get off my lap first.
*
That afternoon, at precisely 3 PM.
The meeting spot is a cafe near the city hall.
I arrived early, took a seat inside, and idly glanced around the place while waiting for Yanami.
The cafe has a cozy, retro atmosphere. Quiet and relaxing.
According to online reviews, their specialty isn't pancakes but rather old-fashioned hotcakes.
This cafe is pretty close to my house, but for some reason, I've never been here before.
"Here's your iced coffee."
"Ah, thanks."
Taking the drink from the server, I glanced nervously at the glass of water sitting across from me.
Spending summer break at a cafe… alone with a girl.
I told Kaju it wasn't a date, but… isn't this exactly what a date is?
According to all the light novels and manga I've read, a date still counts, even if the two people aren't dating yet.
So, does that mean Yanami has just invited me out on a date?
As I fidgeted with the creamer and syrup that came with my coffee, the doorbell chimed.
Snapping my head up, I saw Yanami walk into the cafe.
A navy blouse paired with a light gray pleated skirt stopping just above her knees.
I have seen her in casual clothes before, like during the training camp, but today feels different. She has an intentional kind of feminine vibe, enough to make me instinctively straighten my posture.
Is this really a date, after all?
Spotting me, Yanami walked straight over to the table.
"Um, so, what's up, Yanami-san? Why the sudden tea invitation?"
I forced the best smile I could manage, trying not to look nervous.
"............"
Saying nothing, Yanami sat down, chugged her glass of water in one go, then slammed it down on the table with a force that could shatter the glass.
Then, in a low, deadpan voice, she muttered:
"...The world should just burn."
What happened? I mean, I could already guess what, but still.
"Did something happen at the reunion yesterday?"
At the mention of the word "reunion", Yanami's shoulders flinched.
"…I knew. I knew this was going to happen. But… when it's right in front of you, it's not about logic, is it?"
Yep, this is definitely not a date.
Half-relieved, I leaned back in my chair.
"So, what? Did they act all lovey-dovey in front of you?"
"That was last month's hurdle. I've already evolved past that. My heart is now forged in steel, strong enough to withstand watching a couple play 'I Love You' games in front of me."
Yanami propped up one elbow, lazily scanning the menu.
"Besides, those two don't even flirt in public anymore."
"Then what's the problem?"
"That's not the point. It's the little things. Like cleaning up after each other while eating, casually carrying the other's stuff without a word. It's that kind of unspoken harmony."
She shook her head and continued.
"Catching each other's eyes and somehow just knowing what the other is thinking, sharing the same point cards, having identical ringtone settings, subtly matching the color of one small accessory… and at the end of the day, walking home together without even needing to say a word-"
With a sudden swipe, Yanami grabbed my glass of water and downed it in one go before slamming it on the table again.
"It's official. They have entered the 'quietly smitten newlywed phase' in just one month! How far are they gonna take this!?"
Probably all the way.
As she panted, visibly exhausted from ranting, I silently signaled the waiter for a water refill.
"Oh, and bring a fresh glass too."
"What, do you hate drinking after me that much?"
I don't like shared drinks.
"So, what's your order, Yanami-san?"
"Wait, you're just gonna ignore that…? Uh, I'll have a cream soda."
"Eh? No hotcakes?"
I had assumed she chose this cafe for that.
Watching the server walk away, Yanami let out a heavy sigh.
"...Listen carefully, Nukumizu-kun. Somen is actually carbs, which is sugar."
I already knew that.
"They were cold and smooth. Deceptive. Looked harmless despite being thin and delicate. And then the weight just appeared out of nowhere. Do you know how unfair that is?"
"So, you're saying you gained weight from-"
"I haven't gained weight, okay!?"
Yanami interrupted me immediately.
"But isn't cream soda sugar as well?"
"Drinks don't count. And there's this theory that ice cream doesn't make you fat."
As I sat there, mentally processing Yanami's bizarre logic, the server returned with her cream soda.
A classic green soda topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Without hesitation, Yanami whipped out her phone and aimed it at the drink.
"You're taking a picture?"
"I'm posting it on Instagram. Yep, looks good."
Instagram... That's the social media where you post pictures, right?
There was that whole controversy about people chasing "aesthetic" photos, only to end up throwing away food they couldn't finish. Well, I don't have to worry about that with Yanami.
Tapping away on her phone, Yanami suddenly turns the screen toward me.
"Look, it turned out great, right? Nukumizu-kun, give it a like!"
"I don't have Instagram. ...Wait, isn't that my hand in the corner?"
That's right. In the picture of the colorful cream soda, a part of my hand had made it into the frame. A stray element disrupting her carefully curated aesthetic shot.
"Oh, you're right. Nukumizu-kun, your fingers are really slender, huh? Are you eating properly?"
"I am. Shouldn't you retake the picture?"
"I already uploaded it, though."
As she scrolled through her phone while eating her ice cream, Yanami's eyes suddenly sparkled, like she had just had a brilliant idea.
"...This is a hint."
"Huh? A hint of what?"
With a smug look, Yanami crossed her legs and dramatically flipped her hair. She sure is a busy one.
"Nukumizu-kun, I want to drop hints too."
"What does that mean?"
"I mean leaving little breadcrumbs on Instagram that suggest I'm hanging out with someone of the opposite sex. Not outright saying it, but subtly implying it, like hinting at a boyfriend, keeping people on their toes, that kind of thing."
"Oh, like when celebrities get caught up in scandals over this?"
For some reason, every female voice actor I've ever been into just so happens to have a younger brother close in age.
"...Wait a second, Yanami-san, you're just a regular person."
"Look at this, my friends are already freaking out over my post! They are all like, 'Who are you with?' and 'Did you get a boyfriend?!'"
She shoved her phone at me.
"Wow, everyone I know is reacting. That picture really made an impact, huh?"
"...But, what's the point of this, exactly?"
Yanami narrowed her eyes and gave me a long, slow stare.
"Do you really want me to explain that? In my own words? You sure?"
"...Sorry."
"Good, you learn fast. Oh, hey! It's been ages since I talked to Kasumi-chan!"
She continued grinning at her phone for a while, but then, suddenly, her expression turned serious.
"What's wrong?"
"...Honestly, ever since the class reunion, I've been getting tons of messages from guys I knew in middle school."
"Huh."
"No, like, tons. My own popularity is starting to scare me..."
"I see. That's nice."
That was all I could really say. I sipped what was left of my iced coffee, now devoid of ice.
Meanwhile, Yanami kept scooping up the melting ice cream in her soda at a rapid pace, all while sneaking glances at me. …Does she want me to ask about her "popularity"?
"...Uh, so, are you thinking about getting a boyfriend or something?"
I asked, mostly out of obligation. Yanami twirled her long spoon with a smug expression.
"Hmm… I think I'll pass for now. Not really in the mood."
"Right."
"My girl friends keep trying to set me up with guys, and the guys themselves keep inviting me out for meals... Wait, huh?"
"What now?"
"The guys who've been asking me out... they all kinda have something in common. Uwah, even Tanaka's in here?"
Frowning as she scrolled through her phone, Yanami suddenly looked up at me, her expression shifting.
"...Hold on, Nukumizu-kun. Do you think they all see me as an easy target? Like, 'Oh, she just got dumped, now's my chance!' or 'Might as well flirt with her and see what happens!'?"
"Hmm, well, that's one way to look at it…"
So, she finally realized it. She could have just basked in the glow of her so-called popularity instead.
Feeling a little sorry for her, I absentmindedly poured more syrup into my iced coffee.
"But hey, maybe there's at least one guy in there who genuinely likes you."
"...You do realize that's kinda rude, right? Besides, I'm not really in the mood to deal with guys right now."
I see. Now, I wonder which category I fall into.
Having finished the ice cream in her soda, Yanami stirred the remaining liquid with her spoon, looking a little dejected.
"The ice cream's all gone…"
"Yeah, bummer."
I replied half-heartedly, gazing outside. That's when I noticed a girl from Tsuwabuki High walking with a light, bouncing step.
Short hair adorned with a distinctive four-ribbon accessory and a lemon-shaped charm, long slender limbs tanned from the sun…
"Huh? That's Yakishio."
"Remon-chan?"
Yanami, who had been slowly sipping her soda with a spoon, followed my gaze.
"She's in her uniform again today."
"Hm!? Get your head down, Nukumizu-kun! Hurry!"
Before I could react, she grabbed my head and pushed it down onto the table.
"Ouch! Eh, what's wrong!?"
"Don't lift your head! She'll see us!"
"It's not like it matters if Yakishio-"
I stopped mid-sentence. She's not alone. Yakishio is walking with her crush, Mitsuki Ayano.
Yakishio practically bounced as she walked next to him, her expression that of a girl completely in love.
"Why are these two together…?"
I thought she had gotten over it now that Ayano had a girlfriend…
Yanami, still hiding her face behind her soda glass, watched as the two of them passed by.
Once they were out of sight, she slowly lifted her head.
"...Nukumizu-kun, isn't this kinda bad? A guy with a girlfriend, walking alone with another girl on a weekend. Isn't that cheating?"
"But they have been friends forever. I mean, if you and Hakamada went out together, that wouldn't be cheating, right?"
"It would be cheating."
"...Well, if you say so."
If it's cheating, then so be it. Guess all we can do is watch from a distance as this forbidden love unfolds.
Yanami tilted her glass back and gulped down the rest of her soda in one go, then wiped her mouth with a handkerchief before setting the empty glass down.
"Alright, Nukumizu-kun, let's go! Hurry up and finish!"
"Huh? Go where?"
"Obviously, we have to follow them!"
She shot up from her seat, eyes sparkling with excitement. The classic thrill of a spectator.
"Yeah, no thanks. I'm not interested."
"Huh?"
I casually poured some milk into my iced coffee. Adding it at the end like this made the last part taste more like cafe au lait.
Yanami, watching me with half-lidded eyes, started tapping the bill on the table with her finger.
"Well then, I guess I'll just leave without paying."
"...Seriously?"
It's not that I'm scared of going against Yanami... It's just that it's a pain to deal with her when I do.
With a sigh, I drained the rest of my coffee and stood up.
*
Stepping out of the cafe, Yanami and I scanned the street. Yakishio and Ayano were nowhere to be found.
"Looks like they are already gone."
I said it more to confirm the obvious, then raised a hand lightly toward Yanami.
"Alright then, I guess we'll call it a day. See you."
"Wait a second! You're giving up way too fast!"
Just as I was about to start walking, Yanami grabbed my arm.
"I mean, we lost sight of them. Nothing we can do about it. Besides, tailing people isn't something amateurs can just pull off. We would just end up looking suspicious and…"
I stopped mid-sentence.
Because right then, peeking out from the shadows of the cafe building… is a suspicious person.
She's a petite girl with long hair parted down the middle. She's wearing a mask and black sunglasses, and on her chest is a four-ribbon accessory. She's a student from Tsuwabuki High School.
Glancing around warily, she stepped out in front of the cafe.
Then, as if nothing was out of the ordinary, she suddenly stopped, pulled out what looked like a chocolate bar, and started nibbling on it through the gap in her mask.
Wait, why do I feel like I've seen her before…?
Following my gaze, Yanami muttered:
"Ohh, that's definitely a suspicious person."
"Yeah, no doubt about it."
Right in front of us, the girl pulled out a device that looked like an old-school flip phone with an antenna. Then, she raised it above her head with both hands.
"Hey, Nukumizu-kun. Do you know her?"
"Even if I did, I would pretend I didn't. If we make eye contact, she's gonna drag us into something. Let's go."
"But she's already staring at you."
"...Eh?"
Slowly, I turned my head. Sure enough, the girl was staring directly at me.
Before I could react, she broke into a quick trot and ran straight toward me.
"Hello, Nukumizu-san. Do you remember me?"
As she spoke, she lowered her sunglasses and mask with her fingertips, revealing a pair of large, round eyes gazing up at me.
"Uh, um, if I remember correctly, you are…"
…Unfortunately, I do know her.
The suspicious person's true identity is Chihaya Asagumo, Mitsuki Ayano's girlfriend.
Despite her short stature, she has delicate, well-proportioned features. With her straight posture and high head-to-body ratio, she almost has the grace of a ballerina.
"You're Asagumo-san, right? We have run into each other a few times at cram school, but I don't think we have ever really talked..."
"That's correct. I don't recall us ever having a conversation. Let's take this opportunity to introduce ourselves formally."
Asagumo-san adjusted her mask and sunglasses, then gave a slight bow. The sunlight caught the space between her neatly parted bangs, making her forehead gleam.
"Uh, yeah, nice to meet you."
"Now, let's get straight to the point. Have you seen Mitsuki-san and Yakishio-san around here?"
Yanami immediately cut in from the side.
"Oh, those two? They-"
Before she could finish, I shot her a look and subtly shook my head.
"...Um, no clue. I haven't seen them."
"I see. I thought they were nearby, but my signal isn't picking them up very well… I'll need to make some adjustments for next time."
Asagumo-san stood on her toes, raising the antenna-equipped device high above her head. Yanami, intrigued, looked up at it with curiosity.
"Well then, we should get going. Yanami-san, let's go."
"Hey, Asagumo-san, right? When you say 'signal', what exactly are you measuring with that thing?"
"Hey, Yanami-san!"
"Come on, aren't you curious?"
As we started bickering, Asagumo-san simply stared at us in silence.
"...You two did see them, right?"
Then, without waiting for a reply, she reached into her pocket and pulled out a small, black, palm-sized stick.
At its tip, a red light blinked ominously.
"Eh? What's this?"
"A very useful device. See? The red light is on."
She said it so matter-of-factly as if that explained everything. So what if the red light was on?
Leaving me completely lost, Asagumo-san tilted her head with a sweet smile.
"Why don't we move to a different location and have a little chat?"
*
She said we should change locations, and sure, I agreed. But…
"Why does it have to be my room? I mean, we could have just gone to another café or something."
My protest was utterly ignored. Yanami, now formally introduced, was casually wandering around my room.
"We just came from a café, though. Oh, hey, Nukumizu-kun, this poster is made of fabric, huh?"
"That's not something you should be pointing out, Yanami-san. It's proper etiquette to pretend you don't see these things in a guy's room."
That unneeded follow-up came from Asagumo-san.
Sitting perfectly straight on a floor cushion, she was jotting something down in her notebook.
Meanwhile, Yanami playfully poked at my most prized possession, my Magical Battle Princess Shinonome B2 tapestry.
"Huh, so this is something I'm not supposed to be looking at?"
"I mean, I don't mind if you look. It's nothing weird or anything."
"Yanami-san, that's enough."
Cutting me off, Asagumo-san spoke with absolute authority.
"Otakus tend to hate it when non-otakus poke fun at their hobbies out of curiosity. And honestly, if I were in his shoes, I would die if a girl from my class saw a tapestry of a scantily clad anime girl in my room."
"Wait, she's not scantily clad. It's a battle outfit…"
Alright, this conversation ends here.
Whether she got the message or not, Yanami continued talking like it was no big deal.
"Hmm, but if it's a battle outfit, why is it so revealing?"
"Uh… well… it's because… by exposing more skin, they can channel mana directly… which then… um… activates the Sigma Drive..."
"I see. So then, why are these girls cuddling on a bed?"
…Just kill me already.
As I closed my eyes and looked toward the heavens, I heard the quiet sound of my door opening.
"When all five awakened warriors unite, the Sigma Drive resonates, unlocking the seal on the legendary weapon Pashupalastra. So, you see, there's a perfectly logical reason why the battle-outfitted girls are entangled on the tapestry."
"…Kaju."
Making her entrance while casually dropping spoilers is none other than my little sister. I haven't read that far yet.
"Onii-sama, Kaju has brought some drinks."
"Thanks, just leave them on the table."
"Of course. Welcome, everyone."
Smiling politely, Kaju neatly placed glasses of iced tea on the table.
Yanami, now seated after hearing the word drinks, gave a small nod in response as Kaju bowed slightly to her.
"Yanami-san, Kaju apologizes for not giving you a proper welcome last time."
"Oh, don’t worry about it..."
Yanami looked somewhat disappointed, probably because there weren’t any snacks.
Facing Kaju, Asagumo-san gave a polite bow.
"I apologize for dropping in so suddenly. We’ll leave as soon as we have finished our business."
"No need to rush. Please take your time. Um, if you don’t mind, could you tell Kaju your name?"
"Of course. I’m Asagumo. I go to the same school as Kazuhiko-san."
"...Kazuhiko-san?"
Kaju’s smile froze.
"Hey, you look kinda pale. You okay?"
"No, well, onii-sama, what exactly is your relationship with this person…?"
"There's no relationship. She’s just a classmate. Plus, Asagumo-san has a boyfriend."
Kaju stared at me with a serious expression.
"...Unrequited love?"
That was incredibly rude.
"Don’t go throwing around words like that. Your big brother is about to have an adult conversation, so why don’t you go back to your room?"
"Understood, onii-sama."
For some reason, she obediently left the room.
Asagumo-san blinked in confusion, her round eyes full of curiosity.
"Since you have a younger sister, I thought I should differentiate how I addressed you. Was that a bad idea?"
Yeah, kinda. I'm definitely going to have to do some damage control later…
"Wow, I didn't even know Nukumizu-kun's first name. How did you?"
Yanami, sipping her iced tea, looked impressed. This girl didn't even know my first name this whole time.
"I tend to remember almost everything I read in a day. I also memorized the lineup on your bookshelf."
"Please forget that immediately. Anyway, you had something to talk to us about, right?"
"Yes, you're right."
Straightening her posture, Asagumo-san’s voice took on a more composed tone.
"Thank you both for taking the time to speak with me today. Let’s get right to the point. I would like to explain why I was there earlier."
…She wasn’t just lurking around like a suspicious person, was she?
I took a sip of my iced tea through the straw, trying to steady myself.
"Let’s be completely honest here. I suspect Mitsuki-san of cheating. That’s why I was searching for proof, trying to catch them in the act."
The other person involved is…obvious. The sheer contrast between the word "cheating" and the image of Yakishio left me momentarily speechless.
In my silence, Yanami spoke up in my place.
"Cheating? Do you have any actual reasons to suspect him? Even if they were meeting up alone-"
She glanced at me for a second.
"Well, when it comes to Remon-chan, someone thinks there’s an argument to be made that it doesn’t count as cheating."
"Even if he’s meeting with her behind his girlfriend’s back?"
"Ah, well, that's…"
Yanami held out her palm to me, and I lightly tapped it. It's my turn to speak up.
"I don’t really get much about relationships, but isn’t it possible he didn’t tell you just to avoid making you worry?"
"Yeah, that happens sometimes."
Yanami nodded along as if she totally understood.
I have a feeling that she doesn't know much about relationships either…
"That may be true. I do trust Mitsuki-san, and from what he’s told me about Yakishio-san, she doesn’t seem like the type to do something like this either."
"Great, glad you get it. So that settles it, then."
"Which is exactly why I need to see them secretly meeting with my own eyes and confirm the truth for myself."
I guess it's not settled yet.
"But still, it’s not like you can just randomly stumble across them together, right?"
The fact that we had seen them today was purely a coincidence. They live in the same general area, so it's not impossible, but intentionally catching them in the act would be tough.
"I’ve gathered enough data today. Next time, I’ll pinpoint their secret meeting spot."
"Data? You actually have something like that?"
Yanami asked, sounding intrigued.
"Yes. It’s simply a matter of careful observation and analysis."
Casually, Asagumo-san pulled a small pouch from her pocket, pinched it between both hands and started crunching on the contents. It's a Black Thunder chocolate bar. Yanami's eyes gleamed.
"Would you like one as well, Yanami-san?"
"Can I?"
She eagerly leaned forward to accept it, then turned to me and gave me a solemn nod, her expression dead serious.
"Nukumizu-kun, this girl is trustworthy."
She’s so easy to win over.
"Asagumo-san, if you’re hungry, should I bring you something?"
"No need to trouble yourself. This is simply for sugar intake. The brain requires glucose to function at its best."
Asagumo-san pulled out a second Black Thunder bar.
"Glucose tablets would be the most efficient option, but I am still just a girl. I can’t completely resist the temptation of sweets."
"Huh, so you like sweet things."
At my casual remark, she made a slightly displeased face.
"It is a logical consequence that sugar intake stimulates the brain’s reward system via neurotransmitters. Please do not mistake me for a gluttonous girl."
"Totally get it. I so get it, Asagumo-san."
Yanami nodded with pure, glassy-eyed sincerity. This girl didn't get it.
"I’m glad you understand. I also have some quail-shaped sable cookies if you would like."
"No way! Thanks!"
Watching as our self-proclaimed "not a glutton" friend eagerly accepted the cookies, I decided to get to the point.
"Anyway. I’m against snooping on Yakishio. She’s a clubmate of mine, and if you’re asking for my help, I can’t agree to it."
I said it firmly. Asagumo-san lowered her gaze in disappointment.
"…That’s true. You have neither a reason nor any gain in investigating them. You’re not mere onlookers, after all."
"Exactly. We’re not just random onlookers."
Yanami glared at me while chewing on her cookies after I said that.
"I’m not doing this to accuse her of anything. I just want to understand what’s happening between Mitsuki-san and me. I want to see what she means to him. I need to determine the best course of action."
"The best course of action?"
I echoed, and Asagumo-san nodded solemnly.
"Yes. As you know, those two have been close since childhood. I understand that Yakishio-san is meeting Mitsuki-san strictly as a friend. And at the same time… I know that she loves him."
I involuntarily held my breath.
Yakishio has a crush on Ayano.
It was obvious, but hearing someone say it out loud still made my chest tighten with unease.
"I love Mitsuki-san. That’s why I want him to be happy. Even if that happiness isn’t with me."
Yanami frowned in suspicion.
"Wait a second, Asagumo-san. Are you saying that, depending on the situation, you would be okay with letting Remon-chan have him…?"
"I’ve been thinking about it for a while now. Maybe those two were always meant to be together. Maybe I was the one who stepped in and took Mitsuki-san away."
A wry smile played on her lips.
"No… I’ve known it from the very beginning. That I was intruding on something."
As both Yanami and I were left speechless, Asagumo-san suddenly brightened up again with a radiant smile.
"That’s why I want to confirm Mitsuki-san’s true feelings. And if his heart really belongs to Yakishio-san-"
She straightened her back and declared:
"-Then I'm prepared to step aside."
Silence fell over the room.
After taking a small sip of iced tea, Asagumo-san continued in a calm, composed tone.
"As someone directly involved, my perception is inevitably biased. That’s why I was hoping for an objective perspective from you two."
I understood what she was trying to say. But still…
"Sorry, but I would rather you handle this on your own. I don’t want to do anything that feels like doubting a clubmate."
This time, it was Asagumo-san’s turn to fall silent.
She pulled out another snack, taking her time as she finished it. Then, with a soft smile, she said-
"Of course. This is a problem between the three of us. I’m sorry for trying to drag you into it."
"No, I'm sorry I couldn't help…"
Even as I refused, a strange unease lingered in my chest. But I couldn’t quite put my finger on why.
As Yanami finished the last of her quail sable, she licked her fingertips and then spoke in a quiet voice.
"Asagumo-san, I think I’ll help you out."
"Yanami-san!"
I turned to her in shock, but she met my gaze with a gentle smile.
"Relax, Nukumizu-kun. This time, I’m not just being a spectator."
With a more serious expression, Yanami faced Asagumo-san.
"But don’t get the wrong idea, Asagumo-san. Remon-chan is my friend, so I’m on her side."
"Understood. I appreciate it."
As I watched the two of them exchange contact info, I took another moment to sort out my own feelings.
…At the end of the day, I'm just an outsider.
If Yakishio and Ayano ended up dating, I would congratulate them without hesitation. Of course, if Asagumo-san and Ayano stayed together, that would be fine, too.
But as I remained silent, unable to come to any actual conclusion, I noticed Yanami’s gaze fixed on me.
"What about you, Nukumizu-kun?"
Her tone was casual, no teasing, no pressure. Just a simple question.
Even though my feelings were still a tangled mess, my mouth moved on its own.
"I'll help as well."
"Thank you very much, both of you."
Asagumo-san bowed deeply.
"But how exactly are we supposed to find out when they’re meeting? We can’t just tail them everywhere."
Besides, from what I had seen earlier, Asagumo-san definitely didn’t have a talent for stealth.
"No problem. Earlier, when you saw Mitsuki-san, it was right in front of the cafe just before we ran into each other, correct?"
Yanami and I exchanged glances before nodding in unison.
"With that information, I’ll refine my analysis."
She flipped open her notebook, quickly skimming through the pages.
After scanning her notes, she shut the notebook with a decisive snap and lifted her gaze.
"I understand everything now. Next time, I will catch them meeting."
Intermission: It's Different When It Comes Down to It
Class 2-3, Momozono Middle School.
The classroom on this school day is filled with the lively chatter of students excitedly reuniting with their friends.
Amidst the noise, a single girl sat at her desk, elbows resting on the surface as she gazed out the window.
"Onii-sama... is drifting farther away from Kaju..."
The one murmuring softly is Kaju Nukumizu.
A tall girl approached and looked down at her.
"Nuku-chan, something wrong?"
"Gon-chan..."
Kaju slowly turned her head.
The one who had spoken was Asami Gondou, her closest friend in class. For a middle schooler, she was quite tall and had a mature air about her.
"What’s up? Tell me what’s on your mind."
Concern flickered in her eyes.
"Remember when Kaju told you that onii-sama made a friend?"
"Yeah. Weren’t you happy about it last time?"
"Kaju still is. But… that person is a beautiful woman."
With a sigh, Kaju collapsed onto her desk as if all the strength had drained from her body.
"And it’s not just one person… it’s two. Just the other day, he let them into his room without Kaju's permission, and the atmosphere was like something out of an intense standoff."
"Huh. Guess he has got more game than I thought. So, is your brother actually good-looking or what?"
Kaju shot up from her desk.
"Of course! Onii-sama is the most wonderful man in the world-"
Her jewel-like eyes sparkled- until they suddenly narrowed with suspicion.
"...It's a no-no, okay? Kaju doesn't want to call you 'onee-san', Gon-chan."
"...Onee-san?"
Gon-chan stroked her chin thoughtfully.
"Nuku-chan as my little sister, huh… Not bad."
"Gon-chan!?"
"I’m joking. But hey, if your brother’s popular, shouldn’t you feel proud?"
"But, but, two girls at once? And they haven't even gone through Kaju's interview yet."
"Didn’t you say before that you would be happy if he found a wonderful girlfriend?"
"It’s different when it actually comes down to it... Kaju thought Kaju would be able to just watch over Onii-sama as he slowly deepened his feelings for someone special. But now he’s bringing two girls into his room, and the atmosphere is all weird... Onii-sama is doomed to be plagued by women..."
Pat, pat, pat. Kaju flopped onto her desk again, kicking her legs in frustration.
Gon-chan gently patted her head.
"There, there. If worst comes to worst, I’ll take you in, Nuku-chan."
"Kaju wants onii-sama…"
"That so? Guess I just got rejected."
Kaju lifted her head from the desk.
"…But Gon-chan, you’re still Kaju's best friend, you know?"
"Nuku-chan, you’re too cute. Just marry me already."
"Not happening..."
Once again, Kaju buried her face in the desk, and once again, Gon-chan continued stroking her head.
Kaju Nukumizu, 14 years old.
She's happy that her beloved onii-sama has made friends, but that doesn't mean she can accept it so easily.
And as those complicated feelings swirled inside her, she simply let herself be petted in silence.
