Chapter 2: Just a Little Kindness
The Friday classes are over. It’s homeroom time.
I put my elbow on the table as I remembered my conversation with Teiara-san yesterday.
“-Be on my side.”
Her tone was relatively light. However, I was crushed by its meaning after the passage of time.
I was going to ask Teiara-san after Shikiya-san’s encouragement. However, Teiara-san wants me to be on her side and fix Shikiya-san and Tsukinoki-senpai’s relationship.
“...No, there’s no way, right?”
I accidentally blurted that out in the classroom.
Amanatsu-sensei was reading the list of precautions for the winter holiday. She glared at me.
“Hey. Nukumizu. Why don’t you say it out loud if you have a problem? Is it that difficult not to have an impure relationship with the opposite sex? Are you trying to say that you’re not going to be single this Christmas? Is that what you mean?”
“Eh? No, that’s not what I meant.”
I mumbled. Amanatsu-sensei smacked her tongue and threw away the list of winter holiday precautions. This class teacher has a bad temper.
“Whatever, you guys can just read it yourselves. Let me tell you something- actually, I went to a friend’s wedding a few days ago.”
This is the start of a weird story. The mood in the classroom immediately tensed up.
Amanatsu-sensei spoke up with a bright smile plastered on her face.
“What a great ceremony. The reason the bride decided to get married is the best thing I’ve heard. She said it was lonely to return to an empty, gloomy room every night. Isn’t that funny? Ahaha.”
Amanatsu-sensei laughed. A dark silence fell upon the classroom.
Sensei suddenly lowered her head and smacked the podium.
“...Imagine how sensei felt that night when I returned to my empty, gloomy room in my formal dress with presents in my hands. That will be how you brats look like in 10 years.”
What on Earth is with this curse?
Sensei raised her head after some time. She returned to her usual human-eating expression.
“Alright, get ready to go home after everyone feels better! Sensei will hand out all of your grade sheets afterward. Sleep with one eye open this weekend!”
Ehh, …are we supposed to greet the weekend with such tension? Come to think of it, sensei, are you getting close to the cat you just started keeping?
Amanatsu-sensei went out of the classroom. Everyone left their seat.
Now’s not the time to worry about that. The most important thing now is to continue our strategy conference from yesterday. I have to bring Shikiya-san over. Yanami seems to have left the classroom already.
I have to go to the club room as well. …Honestly, I’m suffocating. The pressure can’t be more tremendous. I have to ask what happened between Tsukinoki-senpai and her while keeping Teiara-san’s secret-
Can I really pull a double-agent move here?
Spies are fantastic, man. Can I get an anime adaptation as well…?
A tinge of flower scent flew into my nose as I attempted to escape reality.
The light novel BGM played in my head. This way of entrance is undoubtedly-
“Nukumizu-kun, do you have time?”
-Karen Himemiya. The classical main heroine took down Sosuke Hakamada in 2 months, which Yanami had been unable to do for 12 years.
Bolts of light sparkle around Himemiya-san’s long hair. I squinted my eyes at her charming smile.
“Ah, sure, what’s up?”
“Can I ask whether you’re free on Christmas?”
“Eh?”
She’s definitely going to ask me to work her shift if I say I’m free here. I know this because I always surf the web.
“Working part-time is banned in our school. Helping you is a little-”
“Eh? Sheesh, Nukumizu-kun is joking again.”
Himemiya-san covered her mouth and chuckled. It was like that was the funniest thing she had ever heard.
“The closing ceremony is on Christmas, right? Our classmates want to have a Christmas party. How about Nukumizu-kun come and join us?”
I think Yanami has talked about this.
“Well, I appreciate it, but I’m busy that day.”
“Busy…?”
This isn’t a lie. Kaju’s doing her best to celebrate my birthday.
There’s a countdown timer made with LED lights on the walls of my house. It’s actually the remaining days until my birthday. I bet the neighbors think our family really likes Christmas.
“Nukumizu, you’re not free on Christmas?”
The person sitting next to Himemiya-san is Sosuke Hakamada. A regrettable expression appeared on the handsome guy’s face.
“Uh, …sorry, I have something to do that day.”
“It’s okay even if you leave in the middle. Just show up for a while.”
“Eh, but-”
“W-Wait, Sosuke!”
Himemiya-san hastily stopped Sosuke’s invitation.
“What’s wrong, Karen?”
“Look, Anna-chan also says she doesn’t know if she can make it, right? Perhaps…”
“Ah, crap. My bad.”
“Sosuke is dense as usual.”
Himemiya-san said that as she smiled and kissed Hakamada’s cheeks.
I feel like an annoying misunderstanding came out of nowhere. Also, can you two stop flirting in front of me?
“Well, my Christmas plan has nothing to do with Yanami-san-”
I explained with my honor on the line. Then, the BGM that has been playing in my mind suddenly changes.
It turned into an eerie melody.
The sparkling Himemiya dimension is quickly swallowed by darkness.
No one else would do this. A gloomy shadow loomed behind Himemiya-san.
“You’re still here…”
“Kya!”
Himemiya-san yelled and hugged Hakamada.
The shadow is cast by Shikiya-san. She wobbled as she stood before me.
“I have…something urgent to do…today.”
Shikiya-san tilted her head deeply.
“Sorry…for…breaking our promises constantly.”
“Eh? Well-”
Promise? Does that mean we won’t be having a strategy meeting today?
“It’s okay. No worries. Well, see you next week.”
I was about to stand up. Shikiya-san leaned her face toward mine over the table.
Her face nearly touched my forehead. I frantically sat back down.
“Ah, well-”
“As an exchange, …are you free this Sunday afternoon…?”
Basically, I’m always free.
I nodded silently. Shikiya-san stood up- she suddenly squatted down and slammed her face onto the table.
“Went upstairs, …tired…”
“You came upstairs to the second floor, right? Here. I’ll pull you. Stand up slowly. Alright, hold on tight and get yourself up.”
…I’m already used to taking care of this girl. My forehead is already full of sweat as she finally stands up. Shikiya-san wiped my forehead with her handkerchief as I searched in my pocket.
“Ah, thanks.”
“Well, Sunday, …I’ll wait for you at that old place…”
Shikiya-san wobbled as she left the classroom…
Hmm? Where’s the old place? I don’t really understand. Ah, I have to tell Yanami and Komari what happened and that today’s conference is canceled too. What a pain.
Fine, let’s go to the club room first. I put my bag on my shoulder. Himemiya-san and Hakamada bulged their eyes and glared at me as they cuddled.
“Uh, what’s wrong?”
“Nukumizu, she’s the second-year student in the student council, right? You two are quite close.”
“That’s not true. She’s always like that.”
Hakamada looked dazed.
“She’s always so clingy?”
“Even I’m embarrassed too.”
The two wrapped their arms around each other and chuckled.
I managed to hold the following sentence in my throat.
-Like you two are the ones to talk.
*
It’s the corridor of the west school building. I checked my phone’s notification screen. Shikiya-san replied to me on Line.
Hmm, a strategy conference at the board game cafe at 3 PM Sunday?
Even though she said we don’t need to worry about money, it’s a little much for her to keep paying for us when she did that last time already. Let’s bring the girl some desserts. I have to pay attention and not let Yanami devour them.
<Got it.> I texted her. Then, a new message immediately came through the screen.
It’s not Shikiya-san’s reply. Teiara-san texted me instead.
<I want to discuss something with you. Sunday at 3 PM. I’ll be waiting for you at the karaoke before Toyohashi Station.>
Why is it karaoke? She politely sent me the location. However, the meeting time is really close to Shikiya-san’s. It’s going to be a pain. I wanted to reject her, but I stopped my fingers from typing an answer.
…Wait, she will definitely ask for another time even if I reject her here. How about I show up first and then run away with another meeting as an excuse?
I don’t think she’ll reject it if I say it’s a promise with the student council.
I opened the club room door with a smile. Yanami and Komari are inside.
“Thanks for the work.”
They are having an intense debate about whether Pretz or Pocky is better. I told them my weekend plans, and then all they gave me was a cold stare.
“After eating crepes with Basori-san, it’s the karaoke this time? Nukumizu-kun, aren’t you mixing up your responsibilities and hobbies a little?”
Yanami pointed her Pretz at me.
I’m the lonely hero fighting my way to take back the doujinshi. Isn’t her unreasonable treatment of me a little absurd?
“It’s more convenient to meet each other alone in the karaoke, right? There may be acquaintances asking me questions if we decide to meet in a cafe.”
“W-Why are you s-seeing her alone?”
Komari took a bite of Pocky and glared at me.
I can’t say what I’ve promised Teiara-san. I stuttered.
“Well, …it’s a little inconvenient. Moreover, I can’t just let a girl enter my room.”
“Didn’t I go to Nukumizu-kun’s room?”
Yanami’s chewing both the Pocky and Pretz. Komari’s eyes bulged.
“Eh!? Y-Yanami, you went to h-his house?”
“Yep, Nukumizu-kun was too pushy. This isn’t good, you know? I’m a girl too.”
For some reason, Yanami spoke chicly. She just blatantly tampered with the fact.
“Yanami-san just showed up because you wanted to during the summer holiday, right? Asagumo-san was there too when you were in my room, also.”
“Ah, now that I remember. You didn’t hand out desserts to two cute girls. Komari-chan, can you believe that?”
“U-Uh, a-are desserts that important…?”
Komari’s right. Yanami nodded and opened the next packet of Pretz.
“Guys need to be reliable. Make sure you remember that, Komari-chan.”
“Stop saying nonsense to Komari. Anyway, I’ll be seeing her alone.”
“But Shikiya-senpai called you out also, right?”
Yanami seemed upset. She measured the length of the Pretz with her finger.
“Hey, do you think I can finish this in one bite without breaking it?”
“Ah, let’s meet at the board game cafe we went to a few days ago at 3 PM. Also, please chew the Pretz properly.”
“T-Then, will Nukumizu really be there?”
Worry is written all over Komari’s face.
“I promised to meet Basori-san at 2 PM at Toyohashi Station. I can make it if we end within 30 minutes. We have to talk to Shikiya-san immediately afterward.”
“Ah, I have to hang out with my friends, so I can’t be there.”
Yanami spoke up calmly.
“Eh, is that so? Well, Komari can go alone.”
“B-But Nukumizu won’t be late, right…?”
Hmm, I’m almost certain I’ll be late if I have to talk to her and then take the train. If that’s the case, Komari and Shikiya-san will be alone…
“I definitely won’t be late. Look, have I ever lied to you before?”
“F-Fair enough.”
See? I’m lying to you right now.
“How about I ask Remon-chan instead?”
Yanami stuttered as she chewed and spoke up. Did this girl just finish the Pretz in one bite without breaking it…?
“Y-Yakishio?”
“She’s banned from participating in club activities right now. She’ll definitely come if she’s free.”
Even though the purpose of banning club activities is studying, nothing will change since she won’t be doing that, anyway.
“Then, can I message her? Is that alright for you as well, Komari?”
“Y-Yeah, I got it.”
“It’s decided then. Basori-san and I will visit the karaoke, and then I’ll meet with Komari. Yakishio and Komari can gather around in the board game cafe at 3 PM. How about that?”
I think I’ve been busy recently.
Come to think of it, we were planning to finish our club magazine this year. Can we really do it?
“We don’t have time to play around…”
Komari and Yanami looked at me. They muttered.
“I-I wasn’t planning to play around in the first place.”
“Eh?”
“We are taking back Tsukinoki-senpai’s doujinshi, right? Don’t forget our goal.”
…I didn’t. Believe me. Seriously.
*
It’s now Sunday after lunch. I’m in my room, crossing my arms toward the clothes on my bed.
This is my first karaoke debut.
Moreover, the person I’m meeting is Teiara-san. She’s my classmate.
I don’t think it’s true, but some rumors say this is-
“My popular phase…?”
Someone called me the moment I mumbled.
“...Onii-sama, here’s your tea.”
When did you come into my room? Kaju smiled and raised the plate with the cup of tea.
“Ah, Kaju? Thanks. Just put it there.”
Kaju put the tea on the table and tilted her head in disbelief.
“What’s with all of the clothes on the bed?”
“I’m heading out. What outfit should I wear? How about this, coach?”
I grabbed something. This is a special treasure with an illustration of a woodlouse.
“Is it a pill bug?”
“This is a woodlouse because it can’t curl up. You can tell them apart by how their body parts overlap differently.”
“I see. I didn’t know about that. Onii-sama, fashion etiquette prohibits wearing sweatshirts in December. How about a collared shirt?”
Eh, there’s a rule like that? I guess it can’t be helped if it’s about etiquette. I unfolded the shirt I had just bought.
“What about this one? The whole shirt is printed with English newspapers-”
“Just go with this simple shirt, alright? Patterns are a taboo near Christmas.”
There’s even a rule like that…? Fashion is complicated, man.
“I think I’ll wear these pants.”
“Ara, are these denim jeans?”
“Isn’t this pair of jeans trendy? The patterns resemble paint stains. There are chains on the waist part as well…”
“Indeed, it’s great. However, wearing jeans gets you targeted by demons at the Ghost Festival. So, let’s just go with the chino pants here.”
The Ghost Festival. It’s a tradition in Toyohashi where ghosts parade around the streets and spray salt on the residents.
“The Ghost Festival is in February, right?”
“It’s a year-end special. It would be bad if people sprayed salt on you when heading out, right?”
Indeed, I don’t want to worry about that when I go outside.
Kaju moved all of my spare clothes away. She put the shirt on my chest.
“Well, how about going with a brown cardigan on this shirt? I’ll bring it later.”
“Why does Kaju have that?”
Kaju gave a natural smile toward my question.
“It’s natural for a little sister to dress up her brother. Look, isn’t that the case in the light novel I lent you the other day?”
It’s from light novels. That can’t be helped, then.
“...By the way, onii-sama, you’re meeting a girl afterward, right?”
“Eh, how did you know that?”
Kaju approached me with sparkling eyes upon hearing that.
“Yes, I knew it! This is a date, right? Is it Yanami-san? Or Komari-san- no, it’s someone else?”
“Wait, wait, this isn’t a date. I’m just going to talk to her a little bit.”
“But, but! You two will be alone, right? If it’s possible, Kaju would like to attend and interview her-”
“That’s not it. I have to meet someone else after this too.”
I slipped that out. Kaju’s bright smile disappeared.
“...Double-header.”
“Eh?”
We aren’t talking about baseball, right? Kaju slowly shook her head.
“I understand the world won’t leave onii-sama alone, but I know what will happen after back-to-back dates. My suggestion is that you should at least move one to another date.”
What kind of suggestion is that?
“We have a lot to discuss regarding club activities. Look, onii-chan’s going to change. Leave the room, Kaju.”
“But Kaju doesn’t mind, you know?”
“Onii-chan minds. Alright, go outside.”
“Nya!”
I picked up Kaju and put her outside before changing my clothes. Then, her words just then flashed across my head.
-Dates refers typically to a man and a woman going out together.
No, but Yanami called me out, and we met during the summer holiday. It didn’t feel like a date at all. Indeed, the presence or absence of romantic feelings is essential.
However, if thinking about this the other way around, if Basori-san has even the slightest romantic feeling-
That person gives off the same feeling as Yanami.
I shook off my evil thoughts and buttoned my shirt. Then, I noticed a pair of jeans clinging to the side of the bed.
I think this is cool, though…
*
The flagship Seibunkan Bookstore before the station. Right now, I’m in a karaoke room nearby.
The time displayed on my watch is 13:05.
Indeed, I arrived an hour early so no one would be aware of my karaoke debut.
“...That was close.”
The first trap was beverages. The staff member kindly explained the drink bar to me when I was about to ask for a cola at the reception.
It was my first time knowing I could choose the type of karaoke. I would’ve died instantly if that wasn’t the rehearsal.
I looked up after glancing at the menu. There’s a receiver on the wall.
Is that how people order? Should I practice using it?
I subconsciously picked up the receiver. Voice came out the next second.
“Hello, this is the front desk!”
Wait, it’s already a call the moment you pick up the receiver? I thought there was a call button.
“Hello!? Are you ordering?”
“Uh, please give me something popular. Ah, yeah, that one.”
I put down the phone. Sweat is dripping off my forehead.
My mental strength is reaching its limit. I ran away from the room and headed to the drink bar.
There’s already someone before the juice machine. I can only wait behind dazedly.
The girl in front seems to have a glass in each of her hands.
She poured the juice into one of her glasses and chugged the other one. Then, she drank the juice she had just poured and filled the other glass. A perpetual motion machine has been completed.
Hmm? She’s drinking a lot. Her semi-long hair makes me feel like I’ve seen her somewhere…
The girl turned around while drinking cola.
“Ah, there you are, Nukumizu-kun. So, how was it? Did you make any progress?”
“...Yanami-san, why are you here?”
Shit, I let my guard down because her hairstyle looks different than usual.
“Imouto-chan said Nukumizu-kun went out looking handsomely. It’s too early. I bet you’re preparing your karaoke date, right? Did I get a bingo?”
She’s right overall. Honestly, I hate to admit it.
“It’s not a date, but this is my first time coming to karaoke. I want to rehearse the plan first.”
“I know. I know. I also went for a preliminary inspection when I went on a date with Sosuke. Anyway, where’s your room?”
“Eh, is Yanami-san coming too? You’re with your friends, right?”
“There’s still time. …Do you not want me to come?”
Everything sucks.
Yanami forcibly followed me to the room. She sat down on the sofa and looked around.
“Sosuke and I came to this store as well. It was exactly this room at that time.”
Yanami’s expression turned dark.
“I see, …at that time, …I see.”
Please stop coming here and flipping on your weird switch. I hurriedly changed the topic.
“Look, there’s a lot in this menu, right? Yanami-san, do you have any recommendations?”
“We ate french fries together. ‘Anna is eating too much, right?’ Sosuke always joked.”
I wondered whether I should diss her. Then, someone knocked on the door. A staff member came in.
“Thanks for the wait. Here’s your onion ring tower.”
Something amazing has been put on the table.
The light returned to Yanami’s eyes after seeing the stacked onion rings.
“...Eh? Nukumizu-kun, did you know I was coming? Or were you looking forward to my arrival?”
“Heh? No, not really.”
“I see. Nukumizu-kun is lonely, right? No need to be embarrassed. I’m sorry. I should have been with you from the beginning.”
Yanami’s mood recovered completely. She put an onion ring into her mouth. I didn’t say you could eat it.
“No, I have been alone since the start.”
“Then why did you order that? It will get cold before Basori-san comes, right?”
Yanami’s cheeks are stuffed. She tilted her head.
I picked up the phone, got connected to the front desk, asked for something random, and here’s what I’ve got- yeah, I’m too embarrassed to say it.
“Actually, I was wondering whether Yanami-san would come.”
I immediately changed my mind and answered. Yanami gave me a thumbs-up with the cola in her hand.
“I like your answer. Alright, onee-san will teach you a lot of things.”
Yanami grabbed the remote and started clicking the screen with a touch pen.
“The basic controls can be done with a remote. Let’s get used to this first, hmm?”
“Uh, so I can choose a song or something, right?”
“Yeah, you can search for the lyrics with this. You can also change the key as you sing.”
Isn’t this remote too powerful?
“Well, what about this menu then?”
“Hmm, that’s-”
This is the start of Yanami’s karaoke seminar. Unexpectedly, her explanations are easier to comprehend than I’d thought. This girl is probably well-suited to do a presentation about hobbies for older adults. I think she’ll get a lot of sweets from them.
“Alright, that’s all you need to not embarrass yourself.”
Yanami stood up after sharing her thoughts and experiences about karaoke.
“We still have time, right? Let’s sing a few songs, hmm?”
I checked my watch. It’s 1:40 PM. There are only 20 minutes left.
“But Basori-san may come early. She’s a serious girl.”
“Hmm? What does that mean?”
Yanami held the phone with both of her hands. She seems shocked.
“Uh, …I mean, I’ll pay for Yanami-san. So, it’s time for you to go back, right?
“...Ho.”
What’s wrong with her? Yanami let out an owl-like noise.
I see. Is it because I didn’t thank her properly? Manners are necessary, even if we’re talking about Yanami here. I lowered my head.
“Thanks for the help today. I appreciated it. Make sure you don’t forget your belongings.”
Alright, I thanked you already.
I even reminded her not to leave her belongings behind. Even I think I did pretty well.
“............”
“Hey, Yanami-san?”
Yanami mumbled “ho” again. She glared at me sharply as if she was an owl before leaving the room.
…What was that? Perhaps she’s mad because there’s no dessert.
I can figure out why Yanami’s mad later. Teiara-san comes first right now.
I texted her the room number after cleaning it a little.
I’m not used to using mail. I only use it for registering magazines and sites.
Finally, I found the send button. I pressed it carefully.
*
Someone knocked on the door at 2 PM exactly.
Teiara-san entered the room. She sat on the sofa Yanami was on a few moments ago.
“Sorry for the wait, Nukumizu-san.”
“No, I just arrived as well.”
I glanced at Teiara-san.
She’s wearing a deep blue dress with a white collar. Instead of a date, it’s more like she’s going to a relative’s wedding.
“What’s wrong? You’re staring at me.”
“It’s nothing. Why did we come to the karaoke out of all places?”
“We can avoid other people while not letting you get any messed-up ideas. The staff members will be here too. This is a good palace for a private discussion.”
Teiara-san puffed up her chest, whose size matched her age. This girl is as impolite as usual.
“...I see. Do you want any drinks?”
“No, thanks. I’ve brought a bottle of water.”
Eh, again? What now? I was in disbelief. Teiara-san glared at me.
“Setting the venue in the karaoke is meant to reduce contact with others as much as possible. I’m not here to play today.”
Teiara-san put out a colorful brochure on the table.
“Is this- a brochure for cram school?”
“Hey, Nukumizu-san. You were in the same cram school as those two a few days ago, right? I hope I can get references from you if possible.”
Eh, aren’t we supposed to be talking about Shikiya-san and Tsukinoki-senpai today? Yes, she did ask me about studying, but this is quite confusing…
“I’m not in cram school right now. If you want more details, I can ask those two for you.”
“No, those two are good people. Getting close to them in front of you is a little, …w-well, I won’t say much since this is an outside-of-school matter!”
…This can’t be helped. I opened the cram school brochure.
“Compared to the web, I like face-to-face lessons in a classroom more. That’s why I like this cram school. There are plenty of study rooms and materials too.”
“I see. I’m terrible with one-on-one cram lessons. Do you have experience, Nukumizu-san?”
“I’ve never thought about one-on-one teaching. I don’t really want to talk to strangers.”
“You know the teacher from cram school, right…?”
I see. Is that what she thinks?
Still, Teiara-san doesn’t seem as scary today. She’s furious in school.
After a while of chatting, I realize she sometimes also shows a smile.
…She’s just normally cute in this way, right? I hope she can keep it up.
I stared at her dazedly. Teiara-san and I exchanged looks.
“What’s wrong, Nukumizu-san?”
“N-No, it’s nothing. Come to think of it, there’s still time left.”
I reached my hand toward the remote. Well, it’s finally time for my karaoke debut.
I recalled Yanami’s teachings in my mind. Indeed-
1. Beginners shouldn’t try singing romance songs.
2. Avoid anime songs at all costs, even the famous ones.
3. Meme songs are all about singing at the right time and place.
4. A person will cry during tense moments due to the emotional gap.
5. That’s why I told you anime songs wouldn’t work.
Did anime songs murder Yanami’s parents?
But what else can I sing other than those…?
I hesitated with the remote in my hand. At this moment, Teiara-san took out a Japanese reference book from her bag.
“Basori-san, what are you doing?”
“I want to study first. You too, Nukumizu-san. Why aren’t you taking out your stationery?”
“Eh, you’re really here to study?”
Teiara-san’s expression turned serious.
“Didn’t you say I could consult you? What do you think we’re here for?”
Ehh, …don’t you think we’re supposed to sing in karaoke?
I went silent due to embarrassment. Teiara-san handed me an English vocabulary book.
“Do you want to use this?”
“Ah, sure.”
I dropped my eyes on the vocab book as I was told.
….Why am I studying in a karaoke room with another girl I’m not even friends with?
After memorizing the third vocab, I covered my face with the book and observed Teiara-san.
Just like at school, her hair is pulled up neatly. She doesn’t wear any accessories, nor does she give off a restless aura.
Teiara-san is just staring at the vocab usage table and mumbling. This doesn’t feel like a date at all.
After a while, Teiara-san stretched her back.
“I’m a little tired. Do you want any music?”
“Well, …I want to talk about something else.”
I won’t hesitate if this isn’t a date. Teiara-san closed the book after seeing my look.
“Are you talking about Shikiya-senpai?”
I nodded with a serious expression.
“Yeah, Basori-san have also told me to put an end to their mess, right?”
“I did. That’s the condition for giving you the book back.”
“Both of us don’t know what happened between them. I’ll be honest and say this. Do you think it’s okay for us to intervene?”
Teiara-san poured tea into her water bottle silently. She slowly inhaled the rising steam.
Silence ensued. I attempted to break the ice by speaking up. She interrupted me.
“...Those two don’t seem to hate each other in my eyes.”
Teiara-san slowly sipped the tea after saying that.
I thought carefully about how I should interpret her words.
“Does that mean Basori-san thinks those two can reach a mutual understanding if they communicate properly?
“How should I put it? I think it’s precisely because they used to know each other that they may break off their relationship completely should they meet.”
Teiara-san stared into my eyes.
“People avoiding contact fear that their vague relationship may break if they face each other. This is quite common, right?”
I looked down to avoid Teiara-san’s eyes.
I know what she means. However-
“I still have another question. Basori-san, why do you care about those two’s relationship this much?”
“I told you before, right? I don’t want to get dragged into those two’s past.”
“But, if that’s your reason, why don’t you just ignore them? Tsukinoki-senpai will be graduating very soon. She even has an exam ahead of her. You can just leave her alone.”
“Perhaps so…”
“If you can’t ignore them, it’s more like the reason has to do with Basori-san, right?”
“That’s-”
Teiara-san lowered her eyes and stared at her cup.
“That’s because Shikiya-senpai…looked very lonely when Koto Tsukinoki rejected her.”
Teiara-san drank the tea after answering calmly.
Then, she shot me provocative glares.
“Isn’t that enough of a reason?”
That’s enough. I shook my head silently.
“Sorry, I was asking too much. But I hope you don’t think too badly about Tsukinoki-senpai.”
“Even if you say so, I have no reason to have a good impression of her.”
“Sure, she can be a little- no, quite cheeky sometimes. She learns her lessons- or not. I mean, there are many good points about her, even if they don’t add up to much.”
“...I admire your generosity.”
Teiara-san sighed in amazement.
“I hate sloppy and careless people, and I also hate people who caused a senpai I treasure to show a face like that. Also, I hate- people who ruin my values more than anything else.”
There’s nothing we can do about the difference in values. While there’s no excuse for coming up with BL fanfics, I don’t want her to stop writing. I wish to keep this a secret if possible.
“I’ll try to do something about those two. Don’t forget our promise about the doujinshi.”
“The same goes for me. I’m begging you.”
Teiara-san returned her attention to the reference book silently.
…Well, I should leave when the time is right.
I was looking up the train time on my phone. Then, Teiara-san spoke up while reading her reference book.
“But I’m indeed worried about cram school.”
She flipped over a page after saying that.
“I have a little brother. He doesn’t want to go to cram school no matter how many times I’ve tried to convince him.”
“Why?”
“He has joined the Football Club recently, and they require training fees. Our family isn’t particularly wealthy either.”
She said that as she highlighted parts in the reference book.
“Even so, I think he’ll go if I ask my parents to convince her. However, that’s why I want to find a way that has the least burden on them, if possible.”
That’s the end of Teiara-san’s story.
She continued studying silently. I spoke up.
“My parents once said I should tell them if I have something I want to do. They will help out whenever they can.”
“So?”
Teiara-san stopped. She slowly raised her head.
“So, I think Basori-san’s parents think the same.”
“Nukumizu-san’s family is quite blessed.”
“Huh? We aren’t, but both of my parents work-”
“This has nothing to do with money. Of course, my family isn’t poor either.”
Teiara-san seemed like she wanted to say something else. Her expression looked like she couldn’t bear it anymore.
“Sheesh, what a pain. I’ll be honest here.”
Teiara-san crossed her fingers and stretched her back.
“Actually, I came here today intending to mess with Nukumizu-san.”
“Eh? Why are you doing that?”
“It’s because you’re here to take back the doujinshi under Shikiya-senpai’s guidance, right? I feel like I more or less have the right to a little revenge.”
I have no words besides a wry smile. Teiara-san glared at me.
“But please don’t misunderstand! It’s not like I’m just trying to talk to you aimlessly! The school rules clearly specify that a relationship with the opposite sex must be healthy and transparent. No more interactions than necessary-”
Teiara-san ranted quickly.
“...Nukumizu-san, was any of that wrong?”
“No, I just think this is more like the usual Teiara-san.”
“Huh!? Doesn’t that mean you think I’m always angry!? Also, don’t call me by my first name!”
Teiara-san took out a question book from her bag furiously.
“I won’t hold back anymore. Nukumizu-san, are you good at maths?”
“Well, not really.”
“You’re on my side, right? Teach me.”
Eh, what should I do? I’ll be late if I don’t get my ass out of here soon.
I hesitated to answer. Teiara-san had already opened the question book without waiting for my reply.
“I’ve already understood cosine and sine completely. However, for some reason, I can’t solve this question.”
Isn’t that because you don’t have a complete understanding? I glanced at Teiara-san’s question from the other side of the table.
“Uh, it’s dark. I can’t see it very well.”
“Well, then, please sit over here.”
Teiara-san patted the sofa next to her.
“Eh? Next to you? This isn’t good, right?”
“I’m just asking you to teach me. Don’t get any weird ideas.”
I hate to admit it, but I feel like I’m the only one getting nervous. I acted calmly and sat next to Teiara-san. There’s a faint fragrance of subtle makeup.
…Teiara-san, are you wearing makeup? Ah, I discovered a beauty mark on her neck.
“This is the question. Do you know how to solve it?”
Teiara-san passed me the question book. I shook off the lewd thoughts and stared at it.
She seems to be halfway through the question. Let’s see…
“I’m not making any progress. Could it be that something’s wrong with the question?”
“Uh, this one. I think you switched the law of cosine and sine.”
“............”
Teiara-san wrote something with the pencil for a while. She then closed the question book in a snap.
“I was the one who was wrong, not the question book.”
Yeah, well, that happens sometimes.
I guess this is the so-called secondhand embarrassment. Feeling unbearable, I attempted to stand up. Teiara-san lowered her head and grabbed my arm.
“Eh, is there anything else you don’t understand?”
“No, not really. I just want to say something.”
“Okay…?”
Teiara-san plopped down her head. She fiddled with her fingertips.
“Well, aside from me coming here to study and consulting with my senpai, there’s one more thing I can’t let anyone else hear.”
…Hmm? What is it?
Wait, she has something she doesn’t want others to know, and she even called me out during the weekend-
Eh, hold on. In other words, …is it really here, my popular phase?
Teiara-san’s petite and downcast face trembled slightly. Her slender neck glows a light sakura color.
Gulp. My throat made a noise.
“Hey, Nukumizu-san!”
“Y-Yes!”
“------?”
Hmm? What did she say? Based on the flow, did she ask me whether I have a girlfriend?
“Well, no, I don’t have someone like that.”
“...Really?”
Teiara-san raised her head.
“So, …you mean there’s a continuation to that book?”
“Eh? That book?”
I’m confused. Teiara-san snapped.
“I-I mean the continuation of the confiscated doujinshi! Is there one? Is it still not out yet!?”
“Uh, that person is an exam student. She can’t write that fast.”
“I see. It can’t be helped. Preparing for the exam is more important.”
Teiara-san’s shoulders immediately dropped. So, she is-
“...Are you curious about the continuation?”
“Wha!? D-Don’t just make things up! I’m just wondering what happens next since it ended in a cliffhanger. That’s all!”
So, you are curious.
Of course, one can decide whether they want to sink in the BL swamp. However, isn’t having your fetish awakened by a BL novel of a respected senpai too deep of an addiction? There’s no way she can be satisfied.
“Hey, what I just said is a secret! Don’t tell Koto Tsukinoki, especially!”
“Is it okay to tell Prez then?”
I said calmly. Teiara-san’s face went pale.
“Why would it be!? Are you insane!?”
I won’t deny it, but Teiara-san isn’t better, either.
Also, it’s my fault for teasing her.
“Teiara-san, your face…is a little too close.”
“Eh?”
That’s right. Teiara-san was just one step away from pushing me over. I ran away.
Teiara-san immediately jumped away. This time, even her ears are red. She lowered her head.
“Ah, it’s because you keep saying weird things! Also, please don’t call me by my first name!”
“Uh, my bad…”
This is- pretty awkward. Being alone with a girl in a private room. I can’t deal with this atmosphere. It’s entirely different than when I was Yanami just then.
I subconsciously looked at the clock and the wall. It’s almost 3 PM. Time to meet with Shikiya-san.
“Sorry, Shikiya-senpai will have to wait for me if I don’t leave now.”
I said that in relief. Teiara-san raised her head.
“...You have to meet Shikiya-senpai?”
“Yes, well, other members have already gone ahead. I have to join them.”
It’s okay to be late since Komari and Yakishio will be there. However, my heart can’t take it anymore if I stay here any longer.
I tried to stand up. Teiara-san’s whispers followed.
“-Can’t you stay here a little longer?”
What? I nearly wanted to ask her, but I swallowed it back down.
I don’t really know what she means, but I know I’m allowed to stay here.
…Can’t you stay here a little longer?
Teiara-san looked away and pushed the question book toward me.
“Please don’t misunderstand. I just want to ask you another question.”
“Oh, I see. Which one?”
“Well, I’ll ask this one.”
Teiara-san placed her delicate finger on the question book.
Due to the dim light, I had to bring my face closer and focus my eyes on the question. Uh, let's see.
“Can you solve this geometry question with me?”
Suddenly, I heard Teiara-san’s voice next to my ears.
Teiara-san, aren’t you too close? What will happen if I turn to her right now…?
I remained on the spot. Then, the door opened with a flashy sound.
“Thanks for the wait! Sorry, I’m late!”
Eh, why is she here!?
“Sorry, I went to the wrong…room…”
Teiara-san and I hastily distanced ourselves from each other.
Remon Yakishio. The smile on the girl who shouldn’t be here gradually turned into a confused face.
“...Eh, am I interrupting you two?”
“No!” “You aren’t!”
We answered in sync. Yakishio’s face turned even stiffer.
No, really. It’s not what you think. I stood up and brought Yakishio to the corner of the room.
“Right, Yakishio, why are you doing here? Aren’t you with Komari?”
“Huh? It’s because karaoke sounds more fun than board games.”
Eh, what is she talking about? Yanami, how did you explain to Yakishio…?
Yakishio looked over my shoulder toward Teiara-san.
“Sorry, I didn’t think you two would be like this. I’ll go home if you think I’m in your way.”
“N-No! We were just studying- this is just a study meeting!”
“Right, right, right! Look, he’s just sitting next to me because there’s only one question book!”
“...Study meeting?”
Yakishio took the question book on the table and flipped through it.
“Why are you two studying in a karaoke room? Aren’t you supposed to sing?”
“Eh, ahh, you’re right. Basori-san, how about you sing a song?”
“Yes, I don’t mind-”
“That’s right!”
Yakishio went to pick up the receiver. Teiara-san stood next to me.
“You were the one who called her here, right? Do you know what the word ‘secret’ means?”
“Eh? No, I mean, I didn’t tell her.”
Teiara-san stared daggers at me. I stuttered. She continued in an even colder tone.
“Nukumizu-san, don’t forget our promise. You know what will happen if you break it, right?”
She stabbed me with her stern gaze. It’s almost like the atmosphere back then never existed.
What did I do…?
*
Aichidaigaku-Mae Station. It’s the closest station to Tsuwabuki High School.
Teiara-san and I disbanded there. It was starting to get dark when I left the platform with Yakishio.
We’re waiting for the traffic lights at the zebra crossing. I checked my watch.
It’s already past 4 PM. It’s been an hour since the promised time.
“I told you that the last song was unnecessary. We missed the train, right?”
“Wasn’t Nukkun pretty excited too? You were pretty good at shaking the maracas.”
Eh, really? Perhaps I did pay attention to the beat and rhythm.
I’m embarrassed due to receiving praise. Yakishio poked me with her elbow.
“Hey, did Komari-chan message you? My phone ran out of battery.”
“Yeah, I guess she contacted me already.”
I stuttered as I took out my phone. By the way, Komari has contacted me via Line, SMS, telephone, email, and Twitter DM. I didn’t answer any of them.
Yakishio peeked at my phone next to me. She made an “uwah”.
“Isn’t she messaging you constantly? Nukkun, you’re a bad boy.”
…Ah, another “go die” came from the chat.
Yakishio covered her eyes with her palm. She stretched her back and watched the other side of the pedestrian crossing.
The board game cafe is right across the road. However, I can’t see what’s happening inside from here.
“Shikiya-san is that beautiful yet terrifying girl from the student council, right? Is Komari-chan okay being with her alone?”
“Komari has been getting used to that person lately. It should be fine for them to have a one-hour chat.”
In front of us is the national highway with two lanes on each side. The traffic is heavy.
The lights aren’t going to change any time soon. Then, I saw a woman entering the board game cafe.
-Her hair is tied into a twin tail behind. She seems familiar. Yakishio pulled my clothes.
“Hey, Nukkun. Isn’t that Tsukinoki-senpai? Did you tell her to come here?”
I shook my head.
Tsukinoki-senpai has no idea about this whole fiasco nor that I have asked for Shikiya-san’s help.
As for why Tsukinoki-senpai is here- I don’t think it’s a coincidence.
…I have a bad feeling about this.
I waited for the signal to change anxiously.
Yakishio started running the moment it turned green.
I quickly walked through the crossing and chased after Yakishio.
Something definitely happened between those two. I can feel a barrier between them.
However, they talk normally when they meet with each other face to face. I’ve never seen them arguing with intense emotions.
So, I must be worrying too much.
Yakishio started running with a worried look.
An unusual aura radiated from Tsukinoki-senpai’s back.
…I followed Yakishio and opened the cafe’s door. The two were glaring at each other across the table.
No, Tsukinoki-senpai is standing before the table with a stern face.
Shikiya-san is emotionless, as usual. She’s sitting on the chair. Her beautiful white pupils are staring at Tsukinoki-senpai.
Yakishio is standing at the entrance. I asked her.
“I don’t know. It was like this when I came in.”
Komari had been fussing between the two of them. Then, she immediately ran toward me upon noticing my presence.
“H-Hey, I told Tsukinoki-senpai that I was here with t-that person. Sorry, uh, I-I didn’t expect this to happen.”
Tears are filling Komari’s eyes. She handed me a small wooden model of a chicken.
I understand the whole story now, but where did this chicken come from?
“Not bad, Komari. So, what happened?”
“W-We have been glaring at each o-other ever s-since senpai joined in.”
I see. There’s still something else.
Tsukinoki-senpai smacked the table.
“Shikiya, what are you trying to do?”
Tsukinoki-senpai snapped and spoke up first.
Shikiya-san tilted her head in disbelief. She seems unfazed by her fury.
“What’s…wrong?”
“I know you have been taking care of my kouhais, but you have gone too far lately.”
“Is that a bad thing…? Everyone is really kind…”
Shikiya-san stood up while wobbling. Her long curvy hair sways gently.
Shikiya-san’s white pupils noticed me.
Tsukinoki-senpai followed her line of sight. She saw me, and then her face twitched.
“So, it’s Nukumizu-kun this time, Shikiya? Perhaps all of this seems like a game to you, but have you thought about us?”
“Isn’t…a game nice…?”
“Tck! You!”
-Eh? Me? Are they talking about me? I quickly cut in between the two of them.
“Wait a minute! I asked Shikiya-san for help when senpai’s novel got confiscated. She’s not doing anything weird.”
“Nukumizu-kun, is that true? For me, Shikiya and-”
Tsukinoki-senpai went silent in the middle.
“Eh? Well, yeah. It’s not something that serious.”
“Senpai, …Koto-san, …the president asked me for help, you know?”
Shikiya-san stood next to me quietly before I even knew it.
“That’s why. You-”
“Everyone…is cleaning after Koto-san’s…mess.”
Shikiya-san approached Tsukinoki-senpai somewhat provocatively.
“Do you…understand?”
Tsukinoki-senpai glared at Shikiya-san’s face silently.
She stepped back and looked away before the tension was about to boil.
“I’m sorry, Nukumizu-kun. Komari-chan and Yakishio-chan, I’m sorry for dragging you two into this mess.”
Tsukinoki-senpai bowed to us deeply.
“Don’t involve yourselves in this anymore. This is my fault in the first place, so I’ll take full responsibility.”
Tsukinoki-senpai lifted her head with a powerless smile.
“So- don’t get too close to Shikiya.”
All of us fell silent upon hearing those words.
The whole place was quiet. I carefully chose my words as I asked.
“...Is this your advice as our senpai?”
“I suppose, even though it’s not my obligation to say it.”
“I understand. However, senpai- is already a retired member of the Literature Club.”
“Hey, Nukkun!”
Yakishio grabbed my shoulder from behind.
Tsukinoki-senpai bit her lips and lowered her head.
“...You’re right. I’m sorry. I won’t cause any more trouble to everyone.”
“That’s why you should leave the doujinshi and other things to the current members like us. Whether you’re retired or whatever, senpai is still part of the Literature Club. Leave it to your kouhai. Please believe in us.”
…I don’t know whether this is the correct answer.
But, at least, I’ve always been helped by this troublesome senpai.
I have suffered a lot at her hands, but she has given me a lot more in exchange.
That’s why I don’t want to see the senpais hurting anyone or themselves for our sake.
I don’t know whether she understands or not. Tsukinoki-senpai lowered her head once again.
“...My most sincere apology, everyone. I’m also sorry for causing trouble to everyone in the store.”
Then, she noticed Shikiya-san looking at her. She hesitated for a while before speaking up.
However, the one thing we hoped a little she would say to solve everything didn’t appear. Such magical words don’t exist, after all.
“Sorry for bothering you, Shikiya-san.”
With that, Tsukinoki-senpai quietly left the store.
I stood still. Komari was the first one to move.
“I-I’ll go after Tsukinoki-senpai.”
“Ahh, I’ll leave her to you, Komari.”
Komari nodded before dashing out of the cafe.
After a while, the hustle and bustle finally returned to the shop.
Shikiya-san stood silently. She then took a bill from her wallet and placed it on the table.
“I’m sorry. …I’ll leave my pay here…”
Shikiya-san walked out of the store with wobbling steps.
I hesitated to chase after her. Yakishio gently pushed my back.
“Go, Nukkun.”
“...Can I?”
Shikiya-san just got rejected by her close friend.
Thoughts circled around my head, yet the answer seemed nowhere to be found.
“I think she wants to be alone at times like this.”
Yakishio pushed my back again. Pretty hard this time.
“-Being alone and feeling lonely are different.”
Yakishio’s dark brown pupils are conveying an indescribable feeling.
I left the cafe. For some reason, I looked up at the darkened sky while pressing against my burning cheeks due to the sunlight a while ago.
-It’s starting to rain.
*
Shikiya-san is heading toward Tsuwabuki High School on the sidewalk.
The sporadic cold rain quickly drowns out the faint winter twilight.
Shikiya-san was walking in the dark. The headlights of passing cars illuminated her.
I dashed toward her and walked next to her.
“Are you alright? Uh, where are you going?”
“Going…home…”
Shikiya-san mumbled in her usual helpless, childish tone.
“Where’s your house? I’ll walk you halfway through.”
Sha. The sound signals that the rain is getting heavier.
I urged Shikiya-san to keep walking. We went under the roof of a nearby apartment building.
Even though it’s before sunset, the sky is already dark, as if someone puts paint on it.
I sighed in relief and glanced at Shikiya-san next to me.
A drop of water dripped down from her wet bangs through her pale cheeks.
I searched my pocket and realized I had forgotten my handkerchief somewhere.
Messing up in the moments that actually matter is usual for me.
“The rain isn’t stopping yet. I’ll buy an umbrella there. Can you wait for a second?”
“It’s fine. …I called a taxi…”
The rain soaks the screen of Shikiya-san’s phone. She looks at it emotionlessly.
Her face seems even paler than usual due to the phone’s light.
“Aren’t you cold?”
“...I don’t know.”
Shikiya-san mumbled powerlessly.
Is she so sick that she can’t even feel the cold? This is quite worrying.
“I don’t understand…what Koto mentioned.”
She mumbled even more powerlessly.
“Well, that person can be one-sided sometimes. Please don’t worry about it too much.”
Shikiya-san pinched the hair sticking on her forehead as she tilted her head.
“Am I…causing you guys trouble…?”
“Eh, no, that’s not true. We’re the ones who asked you this time.”
I handed her a packet of paper tissue I had found in my pocket.
“Thank you. …You’re so kind.”
Shikiya took one out and wiped her soaked forehead.
“My little sister put it there for me. She’s really kind.”
It feels like a rom-com when I was told I’m kind just by giving her a piece of tissue paper.
Shikiya-san’s fingertip touched mine when I was thinking about that.
“Then, …just for now, ...please be kind to me.”
Eh? What does-
My hand turned stiff. Her finger touched mine again.
Is this…handholding?
No, wait. Will this be sexual harassment if I take it too seriously and touch her?
It is said that many tragedies occurred due to misunderstandings around the time head pats became popular.
“Hey, Shikiya-senpai…?”
No reply.
Shikiya-san is standing so close to me that our shoulders are touching. She’s not moving.
The taxi isn’t here yet.
Then, Shikiya-san touched my fingertips with hers slightly before moving her hand away again.
She repeated it three times. Then, she didn’t let go after touching my fingertips for the fourth time.
…I wonder how long it has been since?
It probably wasn’t that long, but it definitely felt like an eternity to me.
That’s why I grabbed Shikiya-san’s hand just as her fingertips were about to depart once more.
Shikiya-san’s fingers are very delicate and cold.
She gently holds my hand as if she’s taking care of a tiny bird.
It’s simpler than romantic feelings or anything like that.
Wanting to be in touch with people. Her emotions are painfully transmitted to me.
Shikiya-san’s side profile remains emotionless as usual.
That was my first time realizing it.
-This girl doesn’t shed tears when she cries.
Intermission: The Reason for Not Being Boyfriend and Girlfriend
“Uh, I need to go to the bathroom…”
The karaoke room. Sunday.
Only Yakishio and Teiara remained in the room after Nukumizu ran away from his seat.
Silence ensued. Yakishio took a sip of oolong tea and sat next to Teiara.
“Hey, Ba-chan.”
“Ba…? Uh, you’re calling me?”
Naturally, Yakishio nodded. She then passed her the microphone.
“Well, I have a question. Are you going out with Nukkun?”
“What!? W-Why did you ask!?”
Squeak. Teiara’s moan caused the microphone to scream.
Yakishio didn’t seem to mind. She continued pushing the microphone toward her.
“The distance between you two reaffirmed my question, no matter how I see it, right? Will people really be so close if they are just studying normally?”
‘T-That’s because!”
Teiara-san robbed the microphone away.
“That’s because there’s only one question book here! Is there a problem!? What’s so weird about me studying with a boy!?”
After saying all of that at once, Teiara caught her breath before passing the microphone back to Yakishio.
“Uh, …indeed, it’s not weird.”
Yakishio seems to be overwhelmed by her ferocity. She nodded and turned off the microphone.
Teiara-san chugged the remaining tea. She spoke up calmly.
“Nukumizu-san and I have met before, and then we were just studying together. Well, what’s your relationship with him then, Yakishio-san?”
“Hmm? We’re both in the Literature Club. He called me here today to-”
Yakishio paused. She frowned and looked at the ceiling.
“Eh, did he call me here…?”
“Uh, what does that mean? You mean you came here without him telling you?”
Yakishio crossed her arms and tilted her head.
“Hmm- I’m not sure. Come to think of it, the explanation I got wasn’t really detailed- I just thought I would stop by karaoke when I snapped out of it.”
“...I got it.”
Teiara-san repeatedly nodded as if she had completely understood.
“This is a kind of marital fraud, right?”
“Eh? Marital fraud?”
“Indeed, it’s a technique to tempt the other party into bearing his responsibility through vague words. What if your lover says, ‘I can’t marry you because I have a lot of debt’ instead of ‘please marry me’? What would you do?”
“Debts are scary. I’ll say I’ll help you too. Let’s try our best and repay…”
Yakishio seemed to have noticed something. She clapped her hands.
“Did you finally see it? He just lets you think you can marry him once you’re done repaying his debt. In other words, Nukumizu-san is using marital fraud tactics despite being a high school student.”
“Have I fallen into a marital trap right now? But Yana-chan was the one who called me.”
“Although I don’t know who that person is, this is a classic strategy as well. Preparing a third party beforehand.”
Teiara stared daggers at the room door, where Nukumizu had just left.
“But I feel like Nukkun isn’t a person like that. He’s more like an unintentional and dense boy. Far different than those evil, calculating masterminds.”
“Hmm, indeed. He’s not an intelligent person like that. He lacks the personality to commit marital fraud. He’s quite dense today as well…”
Teiara-san poured tea into her water bottle as she mumbled.
“Ba-chan, did he do anything to you?”
“I’m not saying he has done anything to me. I’m just saying that a girl should be fully prepared when going out, no matter who it is.”
“Heh, …yeah, I guess.”
Yakishio whistled quietly.
“It’s not that you must be aware of these things when you want someone. However, Nukumizu-san doesn’t seem to understand the girls' efforts. He’s dense.”
“Ah, I get it. Nukkun is like that. Whoever falls in love with him will have a rough time.”
“Indeed, he’s a so-called enemy of girls.”
“Nukkun is really unforgivable.”
The two exchanged glances and laughed cheerfully.
During this time, Nukumizu opened the door. He seemed startled.
“...Uh, what’s wrong? Why are you two staring at me?”
“This is why I don't like this part of him.”
“Yep, exactly.”
The two girls burst into laughter again. Nukumizu could only sigh helplessly-
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