Chapter 2: Just a Little Kindness
Propping up one elbow, I found myself recalling yesterday's conversation with Tiara-san.
"Become my ally."
At the time, I brushed it off lightly, but the more time passed, the heavier those words weighed on me.
I mean, I only started digging into Tiara-san because Shikiya-san pushed me into it. And now she wants me to side with her and settle things between Shikiya-san and Tsukinoki-senpai-
"...Yeah, no. That's impossible."
The words slipped out of my mouth louder than expected, echoing awkwardly through the classroom.
While reading out the winter break rules, our homeroom teacher Amanatsu-sensei shot me a sharp glare.
"Hey, Nukumizu. If you've got something to say, speak up. Is abstaining from impure relationships really that much of a no-win scenario? Are you trying to rub it in that I'll be spending Christmas alone again this year? Is that it?"
"Eh? No, that's not what I meant..."
I muttered, but Amanatsu-sensei clicked her tongue and tossed the "Winter Break Notes" aside like trash. This teacher has such a bad attitude.
"Whatever. Read the rest on your own time. That's it for announcements- but actually, the other day, I went to a friend's wedding."
Okay, that came out of nowhere. Immediately, the atmosphere in the classroom went stiff.
With a beaming smile, Amanatsu-sensei continued.
"It was a beautiful ceremony. The bride's reason for deciding to get married was amazing. She said, 'It got lonely coming home every night to a dark, empty apartment.' Can you believe that? Ahaha, hilarious, right?"
Amanatsu-sensei laughed brightly. The class fell into absolute silence.
After laughing heartily, sensei suddenly looked down, and bam, slammed the teacher's desk with both hands.
"...That night, I went back to a dark, empty apartment in my wedding guest dress, carrying the gift bag. Try imagining that feeling, would you? That's what all of you are going to be like ten years from now."
That's cursed.
After a moment, sensei looked up again, her usual smug expression back in place.
"Alright! Now that everyone's in high spirits, HR is over! I'll be grading your report cards next, so spend the weekend trembling in fear!"
Ugh... are we really going into the weekend on that note? Now that I think about it, I hope sensei's new cat is at least warming up to her…
Once Amanatsu-sensei left the room, everyone in class got up and started moving around however they liked.
Not that I have time to worry about other people right now. Shikiya-san has summoned me to resume the strategy meeting that got interrupted yesterday. Looks like Yanami has already left the classroom.
Guess I should better head to the clubroom too... though, honestly, I'm not looking forward to it. Hiding the fact that Tiara-san already saw through our plan, then trying to pry into what happened between her and Tsukinoki-senpai…
Do I really have what it takes to pull off a double-agent routine like that?
But being a spy does sound kind of cool. Maybe they will make an anime about me…
As I absentmindedly tried to escape reality, a faint, sweet floral scent tickled my nose.
Upbeat BGM began to play in my head. With an entrance like this, there's no need to guess.
"Nukumizu-kun. Got a minute?"
Karen Himemiya. The classic heroine who managed to win over Sosuke Hakamada, the boy Yanami had been chasing for twelve years, in just two months.
Glittering motes of light floated around her long hair, and her dazzling smile made me instinctively squint.
"Ah, yeah. I've got time."
"Then here's a question. Are you free on Christmas?"
"Eh?"
This could only mean one thing- if I say I'm free, she's going to ask me to cover her shift. I know how these things go. I spend a lot of time on the internet.
"Our school bans part-time jobs, so I don't think I could cover for you..."
"Huh? Oh, Nukumizu-kun, you're such a joker."
Covering her mouth, Himemiya-san giggled. Glad she found it funny.
"The closing ceremony's on Christmas Day, right? Some of us in class are planning a little Christmas party. I was wondering if you would want to join us."
Ah, this must be that class party Yanami mentioned.
"Thanks, I appreciate it, but I already have plans that day."
"Plans...?"
It's not a lie. Kaju has been preparing to celebrate my birthday in full force.
The LED countdown lights covering the outside of our house? That's not for Christmas. It's counting down to my birthday. The neighbors probably think we're hardcore Christmas fanatics.
"You're not coming to the party, Nukumizu?"
That voice came from Sosuke Hakamada, who had walked up to stand beside Himemiya-san. His annoyingly handsome face is now tinged with disappointment.
"Uh, sorry, I've had something planned for a while now. So, I can't really..."
"You could just pop in for a bit, you know? Even if you have to leave early."
"Eh, but-"
"Hey, hey, Sosuke!"
Himemiya-san hurriedly cut him off.
"What's wrong, Karen?"
"Remember? Anna-chan said she wasn't sure if she could make it to the party either. Could it be that..."
"Ah, crap. I probably just said something I wasn't supposed to, didn't I?"
"Sheesh, Sosuke, you never change."
Smiling, Himemiya-san poked Hakamada on the cheek.
I feel like a really bad misunderstanding is starting to form here. And also, stop flirting right in front of me.
"Um, my Christmas plans have nothing to do with Yanami-san at-"
Just as I was about to begin a reputation-saving explanation, the background music in my head changed.
The melody turned ominous and unsettling.
The sparkly Himemiya-zone is quickly being consumed by shadows-
Only one person could pull off an entrance like this. A dark silhouette crept up behind Himemiya-san.
"Still... here..."
"Kya!"
Himemiya-san let out a shriek and clung to Hakamada.
The figure's identity is none other than Shikiya-san. Swaying slightly, she stepped up in front of me.
"Got... a sudden task... again today..."
Her head suddenly tilted to the side.
"Another... missed promise... sorry..."
A promise? So, is the strategy meeting off again today?
"Oh, don't worry about it. I'll see you next week, then."
Saved. I began to rise to my feet, but Shikiya-san leaned forward across the desk toward me.
Her face came so close I could feel her bangs brush against me. I quickly sat back down.
"Uh, um..."
"In exchange... are you free… Sunday afternoon...?"
I'm basically always free.
I nodded silently, and just as she started to lift herself off the desk- she slumped right down, resting her cheek flat on it.
"Climbing the stairs... wore me out..."
"But this is just the second floor...? Okay, come on, take my hand. Let's get you standing up slowly. Engage your core and lift from the stomach~"
I feel like I'm getting used to taking care of this girl.
By the time I managed to help her to her feet, my forehead was damp with sweat. I reached into my pocket, looking for something to wipe it with, but before I could, Shikiya-san gently wiped my forehead with her own handkerchief.
"Ah, thanks."
"Then Sunday... I'll wait at the usual place..."
Swaying, she turned her back to me and left the classroom.
...Wait. The usual place? Where is that? I have no idea. Plus, I need to text Yanami and Komari next to let them know today's meeting is canceled- ugh, this is such a pain.
As I slung my bag over my shoulder and headed toward the clubroom, I noticed the Himemiya couple, still clinging to each other, staring wide-eyed at me.
"Uh, is something wrong?"
"Nukumizu-kun, that was a second-year from the student council just now, right? You two seem pretty close."
"Not really. I mean, she's always like that."
Hakamada gave me an exasperated look.
"You let her cling to you like that all the time?"
"Yeah, even I would get embarrassed if someone did that."
Still locked in each other's arms, the two laughed softly.
I held back the words rising to my throat with all my strength.
-You two are the last people who should be saying that.
*
The empty hallway of the west building. As I walked toward the clubroom, I glanced at my phone's notification screen. A reply from Shikiya-san came in.
Let's see. The strategy meeting is set for Sunday at 3 PM, at that board game cafe.
She told me not to worry about the money, but after being treated last time, I felt bad. Maybe I should bring some snacks as a gift this time. I'll also need to make sure Yanami doesn't eat them again…
I replied with "got it", and almost immediately, another notification popped up.
Not a reply from Shikiya-san- but a message from Tiara-san.
<I have something I would like to discuss. I will be waiting at the karaoke place in front of Toyohashi Station, on Sunday at 2 PM.>
Why karaoke? She even sent a link to the place. The timing's close to my meeting with Shikiya-san. It's kind of a hassle. I was about to decline, fingers hovering over the screen, when I stopped.
Wait a second. If I turn her down now, she might just ask to meet another day. Wouldn't it be easier to show up, make an appearance, and then use my prior engagement as an excuse to leave early?
If I say I have plans with Shikiya-san, she probably won't argue.
Grinning devilishly, I opened the clubroom door and found Yanami and Komari already inside.
"Hey, mind if I interrupt?"
After telling them about my weekend schedule, right in the middle of their heated debate over whether Pretz or Pocky reigns supreme, I was met with nothing but cold, dead stares.
"First it was crepes with Basori-san, and now karaoke? Nukumizu-kun, aren't you mixing business with pleasure a bit too much?"
Yanami pointed at me with a Pretz stick.
I'm out here risking everything to get that doujinshi back, and this is what I get? Unbelievable.
"Karaoke's just a convenient place to meet, that's all. In a cafe, people could overhear us."
"W-Why would you need to meet one-on-one in the first place?"
Komari glared at me, still nibbling on the base of her Pocky.
I couldn't exactly tell them about the deal with Tiara-san. I mumbled something vague, trying to cover the end of my sentence.
"Well... it's just complicated. And I can't exactly bring a girl into my room, you know?"
"I've been in your room, haven't I?"
Crunch. Yanami bit into her Pretz stick. Komari's eyes went wide.
"Ueh!? Y-Yanami, y-you have been in his room?"
"Yeah, Nukumizu-kun was kind of forceful. You know how it is, right? I'm a girl, too, after all."
Why does she sound so proud about that? And now the story's been completely rewritten.
"If you mean over summer break, you invited yourself over, remember? And when you came into my room, Asagumo-san was with you."
"Ah, right! Now I remember. You had two cute girls in your room and still didn't offer any snacks. Can you believe that, Komari-chan?"
"U-Uh, are snacks that important…?"
Komari offered a sound argument. Yanami nodded solemnly and tore open a new Pretz packet.
"Boys are all about whether they have got the goods, you know? Remember that, Komari-chan."
"Stop putting weird ideas in Komari's head. Anyway, I'll handle the meeting with Basori-san on my own."
"But you're also meeting with Shikiya-senpai, aren't you?"
Yanami frowned, measuring her Pretz stick between two fingers.
"Hey, you think I can eat this in one bite without breaking it?"
"Yeah, she said to meet at the board game cafe at 3 PM. And Pretz should be eaten in small bites, thoroughly chewed."
"T-Then, y-you're not coming?"
Komari looked worried.
"My thing with Basori-san is at 2, near Toyohashi Station. If I leave in 30 minutes and head straight over, I should make it. You two go ahead and-"
"Oh. I've got plans with a friend, so I can't."
Looking up with her mouth wide open, Yanami spoke casually.
"Huh, really? Then, Komari, I'm counting on you."
"B-But, Nukumizu, y-you won't be late, right…?"
Well... if the conversation runs long or the train timing's off, I will probably be late. And that would leave Komari alone with Shikiya-san…
"I swear I won't be late, so don't worry. Have I ever lied to you before?"
"P-Pretty."
Right. I just lied to her now, didn't I?
"Then let's have Lemon-chan come along too."
Chewing with her mouth half full, Yanami made that offhand suggestion. Wait, did she just eat the Pretz lengthwise without breaking it...?
"Yakishio?"
"She's banned from club activities right now, right? She's probably free, so I'm sure she'll come."
Technically, that ban is for her to study, but yeah, she's probably not doing that anyway.
"Alright, can I leave that to you then? Komari, is that okay with you too?"
"Y-Yeah, that's fine."
"Great, it's settled. I'll go to karaoke with Basori-san and then meet up with you two afterward. So Komari and Yakishio meet at the board game cafe at 3, okay?"
The schedule is packed for sure.
Now that I think of it, aren't we supposed to finish the club magazine before the year ends? Is that even still happening?
"I don't really have time to have fun..."
The words slipped out of my mouth, and Komari and Yanami both shot me deadpan stares.
"T-This wasn't originally meant to be f-fun, okay?"
"Huh?"
"We're getting Tsukinoki-senpai's doujinshi back, right? Don't forget the objective, okay~"
…It's not like I forgot. Really, I didn't.
*
Time passed, and now it's Sunday afternoon after lunch. I'm in my room, arms crossed in front of the clothes I have laid out on my bed.
Today, I will make my karaoke debut.
And my partner, even if it's Tiara-san, is still a girl from my class.
Could this possibly be that thing I have only heard rumors about-
"Is this that so-called popular phase…?"
Just as I murmured that to myself, a voice called out from behind me.
"...Onii-sama, Kaju brought you some tea."
When did she even enter the room? Kaju smiled as she held up a tray with a teacup on it.
"Oh, Kaju, you were here. Thanks. Just leave it there."
As she placed the tea on the desk, Kaju tilted her head curiously.
"You're spreading out all your clothes like that. What's going on?"
"I'm heading out soon, so I was wondering what to wear. How about this sweatshirt?"
I picked up one piece of clothing. It has an illustration of a woodlouse, an absolute gem of a design.
"Is that a pill bug?"
"This one can't roll up, so it's a woodlouse. The way the body segments overlap is different. That's how you tell them apart."
"Right, Kaju didn't know that. Onii-sama, fashion-manners-wise, sweatshirts are banned in December, so how about a collared shirt instead?"
Wait, is there a rule like that? If it's a matter of manners, I guess I have no choice. I spread out the new shirt I had just bought.
"Then how about this? It's got an English newspaper print all over-"
"Let's go with this simple shirt. When Christmas is near, patterned clothes are taboo."
There's even a rule like that...? Fashion sure is tough.
"I was thinking of wearing these pants."
"Ara, denim?"
"These jeans are quite stylish, right? They have this paint-stain-like pattern, and even this chain around the waist-"
"Yes, they are very nice. But during the Oni Festival, ghosts tend to target people wearing denim, so let's go with these chinos instead."
The Oni Festival. A traditional Toyohashi event where ghosts and devils parade through the streets, throwing white powder on citizens.
"But the Oni Festival's in February, right?"
"This is like a year-end special edition. If you get powdered right before going out, that would be a problem, wouldn't it?"
That's true. It would be a problem before heading out.
Kaju moved my outfit picks aside and held a shirt up to my body.
"Let's see. How about pairing this shirt with a brown-toned cardigan? Kaju will bring it over later."
"Why do you even have something like that, Kaju?"
In response to my question, Kaju smiled as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
"It's only natural for a younger sister to help her brother get ready. It even said so in that light novel Kaju lent you the other day, didn't it?"
Now that she mentioned it, I do remember something like that being written. If it's in a light novel, then it can't be helped.
"...By the way, onii-sama, you're meeting a girl today, aren't you?"
"Eh? How did you know?"
In response to my words, Kaju's eyes sparkled as she leaned in close.
"Kaju knew it! So it is a date, right? Is it with Yanami-san? Or Komari-san- no, maybe someone else?"
"Wait, wait, it's not a date. We're just going to talk for a bit."
"But, but! You're meeting one-on-one, aren't you? If it's alright, Kaju could accompany you for an interview-"
"I told you, it's nothing like that. Moreover, there will be other people for the second one."
"...Doubleheader?"
"Huh?"
This isn't a baseball reference, right? Kaju slowly shook her head.
"Kaju understands that the world won't leave onii-sama alone. However, doing them back-to-back seems questionable. Kaju would recommend spreading them out on different days, at the very least."
What kind of recommendation is that?
"It's club-related. She just said she wanted to consult about something. Anyway, your brother needs to change, so go wait outside."
"Kaju doesn't mind, though?"
"I do. Now, out you go."
"Meow~"
While changing after shooing Kaju out, her words echoed in my head.
-A date. Generally, it means a guy and a girl going out together.
But still, when Yanami called me out during summer break and we met one-on-one, the date atmosphere was absolutely zero. Guess the presence or absence of romantic feelings is what makes the difference.
Then again, if I flipped the idea, if I even had a tiny bit of romantic feeling for Tiara-san-
"...Nope."
She's in the same category as Yanami, after all.
While brushing off those impure thoughts, I buttoned up my shirt and caught sight of the pair of jeans lying flat beside the bed.
I still think these look pretty cool, though…
*
Seibunkan Bookstore, main branch, in front of the station. I'm in a karaoke box room near there.
The digital display on my watch read 13:05.
That's right. I have arrived an hour early to avoid anyone realizing this was my karaoke debut.
"...That was close."
The first trap was the drink. When I tried to order a cola at the front desk, the staff kindly explained how the drink bar worked.
Apparently, you can even choose the type of karaoke system. I had never heard of that before. If this had been the real deal, I would've been dead on arrival…
I gave the food menu a quick glance, then looked up and noticed the wall-mounted telephone.
I guess you order with that? Might as well practice using it while I can.
Casually picking up the receiver, a voice suddenly came through the line the next moment.
"Hello, this is the front desk!"
Wait, it connects the moment you lift the receiver? I thought there would be a call button or something.
"Hello! Are you placing an order?"
"Uh, then... just something popular, I guess. Ah, yes, that will do."
Beads of sweat trickled down my forehead as I set the receiver back.
My mental stamina is already at its limit. Fleeing the room like a coward, I made my way toward the drink bar.
Someone was already at the juice dispenser, so I waited blankly in line behind them.
The girl ahead of me has glasses in both hands.
While filling one glass with juice, she downed the other. Then, as she sipped the freshly filled one, she refilled the now-empty glass- perpetual motion achieved.
Hm? The way she drinks like that and that half-up, semi-long hairstyle from the back looks familiar…
As she turned around, sipping her cola, the girl spoke.
"Oh, Nukumizu-kun, there you are. How's it going?"
"...Yanami-san? Why are you here?"
Damn, I let my guard down because her hairstyle is different.
"I heard from your little sister that you dressed up and went out. Since it's still early, I figured you might be scouting out the karaoke place for your date. Nailed it, right?"
She's mostly right. That honestly stings.
"It's not a date, but it is my first time coming to karaoke. I just thought I would check out the system and stuff ahead of time."
"I get it, I get it. I used to scout out places before going on dates with Sosuke, too. So, which room are you in?"
"Huh? You're coming too? Don't you have plans with your friends?"
"I still have time before my meetup… What's with your look?"
It's not what, it's just a hassle.
Following me into the room against my will, Yanami sat on the sofa and glanced around the room.
"I've actually been to this place with Sosuke before- oh, wait, it was this exact room."
Yanami's expression darkened.
"I see... back then, we were still... yeah..."
Please don't barge in here and then flip on your weird switch. I hurried to change the subject.
"Hey, they have a pretty decent food menu here, right? Got any recommendations, Yanami-san?"
"We had fries together. Sosuke said, 'Anna, you're eating too much' with that usual joking tone of his-"
As I hesitated over whether to comment, a knock sounded and the staff entered.
"Thanks for waiting! Here's your onion ring tower!"
Something incredible just arrived.
Faced with the towering stack of onion rings, the light returned to Yanami's eyes.
"...Eh? Nukumizu-kun, don't tell me you knew I was coming? Or were you hoping I would show up?"
"Huh? No, not really."
"I see, so you were lonely all by yourself. You don't have to hide it. Sorry, I should have just tagged along from the start."
Completely cheered up now, Yanami tossed an onion ring into her mouth. I never said you could eat them.
"No, seriously, I was planning to be alone from the beginning."
"Then why did you order something like this? It's gonna get cold before Basori-san shows up."
Still chewing with her mouth full, Yanami tilted her head.
I picked up the receiver, and it connected straight to the front desk. I just ordered something random, and this showed up. Yeah, it's too embarrassing to admit.
"I just had a feeling that you might come."
I gave up and answered, and Yanami gave me a thumbs-up with a cola in hand.
"Good answer. Alright, onee-san here is gonna teach you a few things."
She picked up the remote and started tapping the screen with the stylus.
"Most basic controls can be done with the remote, so let's get you used to this first."
"Uh, this is how you pick songs and stuff, right?"
"Yup. You can search lyrics like this. And you can even change the key while you're singing."
So this remote wasn't just for show after all.
"Then what's this menu for?"
"Hmm, that one is-"
Yanami's karaoke lecture has begun. Contrary to expectations, her explanations are surprisingly easy to understand. This girl might actually be suited for hobby workshops aimed at old people. She would probably get lots of snacks, too.
"Alright, as long as you remember this much, you won't embarrass yourself."
Once she had finished explaining the basics of karaoke, Yanami stood up.
"We still have time, right? Let's sing a few songs, hmm?"
A glance at the clock showed 13:40. 20 minutes until the meetup.
"But Basori-san might show up early. She's the serious type."
"Hmm? What do you mean?"
Yanami gripped the mic in both hands, frowning in confusion.
"Uh, I mean... I'll cover your share, so could you head out now?"
"...Ho."
What's with that sound, like a hooting owl?
Ah, right. I haven't thanked her properly. Even with Yanami, manners are important.
I gave a small bow.
"Thanks for today. You really helped. Make sure you don't forget anything on your way out."
There, I properly expressed my thanks.
I even gave a reminder not to forget anything. That was pretty smooth, if I say so myself.
"............"
"Uh, Yanami-san?"
Yanami let out another "ho", then shot me a sharp glare like a full-on owl before walking out of the room.
...What was that about? Could she be mad that I didn't serve dessert or something?
I'll follow up with Yanami another time. For now, it's Tiara-san I need to focus on.
I tidied up the room and sent her the room number by email.
I hardly ever use email except for newsletter subscriptions or registering on websites, so I'm not really used to it…
After finally finding the send button, I carefully pressed it.
*
The door is knocked on right at 2 PM sharp.
When Tiara-san entered the room, she took a seat on the sofa Yanami had been sitting on just a little while ago.
"Thank you for waiting, Nukumizu-san."
"No, I just got here myself."
I casually bluffed and glanced sideways at Tiara-san.
Her outfit is a navy one-piece dress with a prominent white collar. Rather than a date, it gives off the impression of attending a relative's wedding.
"What is it? You have been staring."
"No, it's nothing. I was just wondering, why karaoke today?"
"It's a place where we can avoid being seen, and if you were to entertain any improper thoughts, a staff member would immediately rush in. It's ideal for a secret conversation."
Tiara-san proudly puffed out her chest in a way befitting her age. This person really hasn't changed, still as rude as ever.
"...I see. Oh, drinks are self-serve from the drink bar."
"I brought my own water bottle, so I'm fine."
Huh, why? As I gave her a puzzled look, Tiara-san glared sharply at me.
"I chose karaoke to minimize contact with others. I didn't come here to have fun today."
She began laying out a series of colorful pamphlets on the table.
"These are... cram school brochures?"
"Yes. Nukumizu-san, you attended the same school as those two the other day, didn't you? I was hoping to hear your thoughts, if you don't mind."
Wait, wasn't I called here today because of the issue with Shikiya-san and Tsukinoki-senpai?
Well, we had talked about studying too, so maybe it's just a bit of everything…
"I'm not going to cram school right now, but if you want more details, I can contact them."
"No, those two are fine people. It's just that... seeing them all lovey-dovey right in front of me is a little... W-Well, this is off-campus, so I won't say anything!"
...I see. I opened one of the brochures from the cram school I used to attend.
"I liked it because I preferred in-person classes over online ones. The self-study rooms and materials were pretty solid, too."
"I see. I have been debating between that and a one-on-one tutoring school. Do you have any experience with those, Nukumizu-san?"
"I never really considered private tutoring. I'm not good at talking to people I don't know."
"But the tutor would be someone you know, wouldn't they...?"
Huh. That's one way to think about it.
Still, Tiara-san isn't nearly as scary today. She's usually pretty angry at school.
As we kept talking, she even started smiling every now and then.
...When she's like this, she's actually kind of cute. If only she were always like this.
I found myself watching her absentmindedly when, suddenly, our eyes met.
"What is it, Nukumizu-san?"
"N-No, it's nothing. By the way, we still have time, right?"
I reached for the remote. At last, the moment of my karaoke debut had arrived.
I recalled Yanami's lessons in my head. If I remember correctly-
Rule #1: Beginners should avoid ballads.
Rule #2: Avoid anime songs, even the famous ones.
Rule #3: Meme songs should only be sung when the mood is right.
Rule #4: Don't hype yourself up alone. You'll crash hard.
Rule #5: Seriously, no anime songs.
Did an anime song kill someone Yanami loved?
Still, do I even have anything else I can sing...?
As I stood there hesitating with the remote in hand, Tiara-san pulled an old Japanese literature study guide out of her bag.
"Basori-san, what are you doing?"
"I thought we would start by studying. What about you, Nukumizu-san? Didn't you bring any study materials?"
"Wait, you were actually planning to study?"
Tiara-san's expression turned stern.
"I told you we were going to have a discussion. What did you think I meant?"
...You can't expect karaoke without singing, right?
Embarrassed, I fell silent. Tiara-san held out a vocabulary notebook to me.
"If you would like, you can use this."
"Ah, thanks."
I accepted it and looked down at the word list as instructed.
…Why am I studying English vocabulary in a karaoke booth alone with a girl who isn't even a friend?
After memorizing the third word, I used the notebook to partially shield my face and observe Tiara-san.
Same tightly-tied hair as at school. No accessories, no signs of frivolity, nothing flashy at all.
From the way she mumbled to herself while glaring at a verb conjugation chart, the atmosphere was zero percent date-like.
After a while, Tiara-san gave a small stretch.
"I'm feeling a bit tired. Shall we play some music?"
"Uh… actually, I would like to talk about that other thing."
Since it's not a date, there's no need to hold back. Sensing the change in tone, Tiara-san closed her study guide.
"You mean about Shikiya-senpai and the others?"
I gave a serious nod.
"Yeah. You told me I had to settle things between them."
"I did. That was the condition for returning the book."
"But neither of us really knows what happened between them, right? Honestly, do you think it's okay for us to get involved?"
Tiara-san silently poured tea from her thermos cup and slowly inhaled the rising steam.
Still silent. Just as I was about to break the tension, she began to speak, as if cutting me off.
"...From what I've seen, those two don't seem to hate each other."
With just that, Tiara-san quietly took a sip of her tea.
I carefully considered how to interpret those words.
"So, what you mean is, if they just talked it out properly, they would understand each other?"
"I wonder. Sometimes, facing each other is exactly what causes things to fall apart."
Tiara-san looked directly into my eyes.
"When people realize that things will break if they look too closely, they avert their gaze. It's a common story, isn't it?"
I lowered my face to escape her gaze.
I get what she's saying. But-
"There's one more thing I want to know. Why do you care so much about what happens between those two?"
"I have told you before, haven't I? I don't want to be dragged down by their past."
"But if that's really all, you could have just ignored it. Tsukinoki-senpai's close to graduating, and she has entrance exams. You could have left it alone."
"...Maybe so."
"And yet, you couldn't ignore it. If anything, doesn't that mean the reason you care lies somewhere inside you?"
"That's-"
Tiara-san averted her eyes and stared intently into her teacup.
"When Shikiya-senpai was rejected by Koto Tsukinoki, she looked... really lonely."
She answered quietly, then finished the rest of her tea.
After that, she gave me a challenging glare.
"Is that reason not good enough for you?"
It's more than enough. I silently shook my head.
"Sorry. I pushed too far. But still, I hope you won't think too badly of Tsukinoki-senpai."
"You say that, but I see no reason to hold a favorable impression of her."
"True, she's a little, no, way over the top. And whether she reflects on it- well, sometimes she does, sometimes she doesn't. But, even if it's by a slim margin, there are more good points than bad."
"...Your generosity is truly impressive."
Tiara-san sighed, sounding exasperated.
"I dislike people who are irresponsible and careless. I also dislike anyone who makes someone I care about, like my senior, wear such an expression. And more than anything, I despise those who go around destroying my values."
Differences in values are something that can't be helped. There's no way to defend something like real-person BL, but I don't think she should stop writing. I just hope she keeps me out of it, if possible.
"I'll try to figure out what to do about those two. But don't forget our deal about the doujinshi."
"That's my line. Please be sure to take care of it properly."
Tiara-san silently turned her focus back to the study guide.
...Alright. I should time my exit carefully.
As I checked train schedules on my phone, Tiara-san spoke up, still looking down at the book.
"-I really am torn about the cram school thing."
She flipped a page in her study guide smoothly.
"I have a younger brother, so it's hard for me to bring it up."
"Why?"
"He just joined a soccer club recently. There will be travel costs, and our family's just an ordinary salaryman household."
As she spoke, she highlighted a line in the guide with a fluorescent pen.
"That said, if I asked, I'm sure they would let me go. That's why I want to figure out the least burdensome way to do it for them."
That was the end of Tiara-san's explanation.
As she quietly continued studying, I found myself naturally speaking to her.
"...My parents once told me, if I ever found something I wanted to do or a goal I wanted to chase, I had to tell them. Even if it meant pushing things a little, they wanted me to do it."
Tiara-san stopped her hand and slowly looked up at me.
"And?"
"I think your parents probably feel the same way, Basori-san."
"Nukumizu-san, your household is quite blessed, isn't it?"
"Eh? I mean, we're not rich or anything, but both my parents work, so-"
"I don't mean financially. Of course, the Basori household isn't about to lose in that area either."
She looked like she wanted to say something more, but gave in with a faint smile.
"Ahh, fine. This is too much trouble. I'll just admit it."
Tiara-san laced her fingers together and stretched her arms wide.
"To be honest, I came here today planning to mess with you, Nukumizu-san."
"Huh? Why would you do that?"
"Because you only approached me to get that doujinshi back, right? On Shikiya-senpai's advice. I figured I had the right to get a little payback."
…I had no retort. All I could do was give her a sheepish smile, which Tiara-san answered with a sharp glare.
"But don't get the wrong idea, okay! It's not like I wanted you to talk to me for personal reasons or anything! As long as the school rules clearly state that 'interactions with the opposite sex must be wholesome and upright', any unnecessary contact-"
Tiara-san spoke rapidly, like firing a machine gun.
"...What's so funny, Nukumizu-san?"
"No, I just thought this version of you feels more like the usual Tiara-san."
"Huh!? That makes it sound like I'm always angry! Also, don't call me by my first name!"
Still fuming, Tiara-san dug into her bag and pulled out a workbook.
"I'm not holding back anymore. Nukumizu-san, are you good at math?"
"Well, it's not my worst subject."
"You're on my side, right? Then help me."
Eh, what do I do? If I don't leave soon, I won't make it to my next appointment on time.
Before I could decide, Tiara-san had already opened the workbook.
"I have fully understood both the cosine and sine rules, and yet for some reason, I still can't solve the problems."
That probably means you haven't fully understood them…
I leaned over the table to look at the problem she was pointing to.
"Uh, it's kind of dark. I can't see very well."
"In that case, come over here."
Tiara-san patted the sofa seat beside her.
"Huh? Beside you? But, I mean, isn't that kind of...?"
"You're just helping me study. Don't overthink it."
It feels unfair to be the only one flustered, so I forced myself to stay calm and sat down next to her. A faint scent of understated makeup drifted over.
...So Tiara-san wears makeup, huh. Oh, there's a small mole on her neck.
"This is the problem. Can you figure it out?"
Tiara-san slid the workbook toward me. I shook off any impure thoughts and focused my eyes.
Looks like she has gotten partway through the problem. Let's see…
"No matter what I try, I can't get it right. Could the question be wrong?"
"Um... I think you have got the sine and cosine rules mixed up."
"............"
Tiara-san was silent for a moment as she moved her mechanical pencil across the page, then shut the workbook with a snap.
"...The one that was wrong wasn't the workbook. It was me."
So this is what they call secondhand embarrassment. Just as I stood up, feeling too awkward to stay, Tiara-san, still looking down, grabbed my arm.
"Eh, is there another question you're stuck on?"
"No, that's not it. There's something I would like to say."
"Okay?"
Still facing downward, Tiara-san fidgeted with her fingers.
"Um, well, I did call you here today to talk about studying and about our seniors, but there's one more thing. Something I can't let anyone else hear."
…Hmm? What's this about?
Calling me out on a day off just to say something she doesn't want others to hear-
Wait, hold on. Does that mean...? Could it be...? My popularity arc has finally begun?
Tiara-san's petite, downturned face trembled slightly. Her slender neck is tinged with the faintest blush of pink.
Gulp. I swallowed hard.
"N-Nukumizu-san!"
"Y-Yes!"
"-about that thing."
Eh? What did she say? Based on the flow, was she asking if I had a girlfriend?
"Um, well, I don't really have anyone like that-"
"...Huh?"
Tiara-san raised her head with a confused look.
"I mean... the sequel. Is there a continuation to that book?"
"Huh? That book?"
As I floundered, Tiara-san suddenly lunged at me.
"T-That doujinshi I confiscated! Is there a sequel!? Yes or no!?"
"Uh... well, she is studying for entrance exams. It's not like she can crank it out that quickly."
"I see. That makes sense. Exam prep is important, after all."
Tiara-san slumped forward in visible disappointment. So this is-
"...You're curious about the sequel?"
"Ha!? D-Don't say such foolish things! It just ended in such an unfinished place, so I was wondering what happens next! That's all!"
Yeah, you're totally curious.
Falling into the BL abyss is a personal choice, but awakening to a real-person genderswap BL novel about your beloved senior? That's some seriously deep karmic debt. And just so you know, there's not going to be any more content down that road.
"W-What I just said is a secret, okay!? Especially from Koto Tsukinoki! Don't you dare tell her!"
"So it's fine to tell Prez?"
My offhand joke made Tiara-san go pale.
"Of course it's not fine! Are you insane!?"
I won't deny that, but Tiara-san's no less unhinged herself.
And honestly, I just wanted to mess with her-
"Um, Tiara-san? Your face is kind of close..."
"Huh?"
Yes, Tiara-san leaned in while I tried to pull away. I was one step away from being completely pinned down.
Realizing that, she quickly backed off, her ears now blushing red as she looked down.
"Y-You're the one who said something weird! And stop calling me by my first name!"
"Uh, sorry…"
This is... pretty awkward. Alone with a girl in a private room? This kind of mood is way too much for me to handle. It's an entirely different situation from being alone with Yanami earlier.
I glanced up at the clock on the wall. It's nearly 3 PM. Time for my meeting with Shikiya-san.
"Sorry. I have to go. Shikiya-senpai's waiting."
Half relieved, I stood up as I said that. Tiara-san looked up at me.
"...Do you have plans with Shikiya-senpai?"
"Yeah, kind of. The other club members already went ahead, but I need to catch up."
With Komari and Yakishio there, I probably wouldn't be missed for a while, but any longer in this room, and my heart wouldn't survive.
Just as I was about to stand, a soft voice caught me.
"...You could stay a little longer, right?"
I nearly asked, "Stay for what?" out of reflex, but swallowed the words.
I don't really get it, but she's giving me permission to stay.
…Maybe a little longer is fine.
Tiara-san averted her gaze as she pushed the workbook toward me.
"Please don't get the wrong idea. There are still some problems I want help with."
"Yeah, got it. Which one?"
"Then, this one."
Tiara-san's slender finger tapped lightly against the workbook.
In the dim lighting, I leaned in closer to focus on the problem. Let's see here-
"Would you solve this geometry question with me?"
Suddenly, her voice came right next to my ear.
Wait, Tiara-san's really close. If I turn my head now, what would even happen...?
As I froze in place- Bang! A loud noise rang out as the door burst open.
"Sorry to keep you waiting! I'm late, sorry!"
Wait, why is she here!?
"Yeah, I went into the wrong room by mistake… and then..."
Tiara-san and I quickly jumped apart.
Lemon Yakishio. The girl who isn't supposed to be here. Her smile slowly shifted into a confused expression.
"...Wait, did I interrupt something?"
"It's not like that!" "It's not like that!"
Our synchronized voices only made Yakishio's face harden further.
No, seriously, it's not what it looks like. I stood up and pulled Yakishio over to the corner of the room.
"More importantly, why are you here, Yakishio? Weren't you with Komari?"
"Huh? But didn't we agree to split up between karaoke and board games? I figured I would rather do karaoke."
Wait, when did that happen? What kind of explanation did Yanami give her…?
Yakishio peeked past my shoulder toward Tiara-san.
"Sorry, I didn't think things would be like this. I can head out if I'm in the way?"
"T-That's not it! We were just- um, just having a study session!"
"Yeah, exactly! See, there's only one workbook, so that's why we were sitting close together!"
"...Study session?"
Yakishio picked up the workbook on the table and flipped through it.
"Why are you studying in a karaoke room? It's karaoke. You're supposed to sing."
"Ah, yeah, you're right. Is that okay with you, Basori-san?"
"I don't mind, but-"
"That's more like it!"
As Yakishio went to grab a mic, Tiara-san stepped up beside me.
"...So you invited another girl. Do you know the meaning of the word 'confidential'?"
"Eh? N-No, I didn't mean for this to happen-"
Cutting me off with a frosty glare, Tiara-san spoke in an even colder voice.
"Nukumizu-san, don't forget our agreement. You know what happens if you fail to follow through, right?"
The mood from just moments ago vanished without a trace. Her icy gaze stabbed straight through me.
Did I do something wrong…?
*
Aichidaigakumae Station, nearest to Tsuwabuki High School.
After parting with Tiara-san, I left the station platform with Yakishio. By then, dusk had already begun to fall.
While waiting at the crosswalk to cross the street, I checked my watch.
It's already past 4 PM, an hour after the scheduled meeting time.
"That last song really was one too many. We missed the train because of it."
"But you were hyped up too, Nukkun. You were pretty good with the maracas, you know."
Eh, really? Maybe focusing on the wrist snap helped.
As I blushed from the compliment, Yakishio nudged me with her elbow.
"Hey, has Komari-chan messaged you? My phone died."
"Hmm... yeah, I guess she has. Sort of."
I dodged the question as I pulled out my phone. For the record, Komari contacted me via LINE, SMS, phone calls, email, and even Twitter DMs. I haven't replied to any of them.
Looking over my shoulder, Yakishio let out a gasp.
"Whoa, the full course. Nukkun, you're such a bad guy."
…Ah, she just texted me another "go die".
Yakishio raised her hand above her eyes, standing on tiptoe to peek across the street.
The board game cafe is just across the crosswalk, but we can't see inside from here.
"Shikiya-san's that scary, pretty girl from the student council, right? Will Komari-chan be okay by herself?"
"Komari has gotten used to her lately. She should be fine for about an hour."
In front of us is a busy highway with two lanes in each direction.
While waiting for the traffic light, which just wouldn't change, I spotted a woman entering the board game cafe.
-A familiar figure with her hair tied into twin ponytails in the back. Yakishio tugged at my sleeve.
"Hey, Nukkun, isn't that Tsukinoki-senpai? Did you invite her too?"
I shook my head.
I haven't told Tsukinoki-senpai that we are getting help from Shikiya-san for this whole situation.
And it's hard to believe her being here was just a coincidence.
…I have a bad feeling about this.
Growing more anxious by the second, we waited for the light to change.
As soon as it turned green, Yakishio broke into a run.
I followed, crossing the street quickly, keeping my eyes on Yakishio's back.
Something has definitely happened between those two. There's a wall.
But when they did see each other, they still spoke. I have never seen them argue or lose their cool.
So this is probably nothing.
Yakishio only ran off with that uneasy look out of caution.
And Tsukinoki-senpai's back just seems different this time- surely, I'm imagining it.
...When I followed Yakishio and opened the cafe door, the two of them were already locked in a tense standoff across the table.
No, only Tsukinoki-senpai, standing at the table, wore a hostile expression.
Shikiya-san, seated as usual with her expressionless face, gazed up at Tsukinoki-senpai through those pale-colored contact lenses.
I turned to Yakishio, who was still frozen at the entrance.
"Yakishio, what happened?"
"I don't know. It was like this when I walked in."
Komari, who had been flustering around between them, noticed me and ran over.
"A-Actually, I-I told Tsukinoki-senpai that s-she was here. I-I'm sorry, I didn't t-think it w-would turn out like this..."
Tears welled in Komari's eyes as she handed me a small wooden chicken figurine.
I got the gist of what happened, but what do I do with this chicken?
"It's not your fault, Komari. So, what exactly happened?"
"E-Ever since senpai came in, t-they have just been s-staring each other down like this."
I see, so the real confrontation is just about to begin.
Tsukinoki-senpai slammed her hand down on the table.
"Shikiya, what exactly are you playing at?"
She was the one to make the first move.
But Shikiya-san didn't flinch in the slightest. She just tilted her head as if genuinely puzzled.
"Playing at... what?"
"I have known you were getting close with my juniors, but lately, you have seriously crossed the line."
"Is that... bad? Everyone's really kind, you know..."
With a sway, Shikiya-san rose to her feet, her long, wavy hair drifting weightlessly as she moved.
Then her pale eyes shifted toward me.
"Shikiya, is it Nukumizu-kun now? Maybe you think it's all just a game, but to the rest of us-"
"Is playing... a bad thing?"
"Y-You little...!"
-Wait, me? Are they talking about me? I hurriedly stepped between the two.
"Please hold on a second! I'm the one who asked Shikiya-san for help this time. It was about the confiscated doujinshi, and she has been helping me out. So this isn't anything shady."
"Nukumizu-kun, is that true? You and Shikiya… for my sake-"
Tsukinoki-senpai trailed off, her words cutting off mid-sentence.
"Eh? Well, yeah, I guess. But it's not that big a deal."
"Senpai... Koto-san... I was asked... by Prez here, you know?"
At some point, Shikiya-san had silently moved to stand beside me.
"So what? That doesn't mean-"
"We're all... cleaning up after you... Koto-san."
Shikiya-san leaned in slightly, her tone somehow provocative, closing the distance between them.
"Do you... understand?"
Tsukinoki-senpai didn't budge, glaring straight into Shikiya-san's face.
Then, just as the tension reached its breaking point, she looked away and took a single step back.
"Nukumizu-kun, I'm sorry. Komari-chan, Yakishio-chan, I'm sorry for dragging you into this."
Tsukinoki-senpai gave us a deep bow.
"You all step away from this. It was my fault to begin with, so I'll take full responsibility myself."
When she looked up, she forced a faint smile.
"So, please don't get too close to Shikiya."
Those words left us all in stunned silence.
As the quiet settled over the room, I carefully chose my words and asked.
"...Is that advice as our senior?"
"Yes. I know I don't have the right to say it, but still."
"I understand what you're saying. But, senpai, you're already an alumna of the Literature Club."
"Hey, Nukkun!"
Yakishio grabbed my shoulder from behind.
Tsukinoki-senpai bit her lip and lowered her eyes.
"...You're right. Sorry. I won't cause any more trouble for you all."
"That's why, things like the doujinshi or anything else, we'll handle it. Because alumna or not, you're still part of the Literature Club. So please leave it to us, and hold your head high."
…I don't know if that was the right thing to say.
But at the very least, I have been helped by this difficult senior countless times.
She has caused a lot of trouble as well, but even more than that, she has given us so much.
So I don't want to keep seeing her hurt others or herself for our sake.
I don't know if that feeling reached her, but Tsukinoki-senpai bowed her head to us once more.
"...Everyone, I'm really sorry. And to the staff as well, sorry for the disturbance."
Then, as she noticed Shikiya-san still gazing silently at her, she hesitated before opening her mouth.
But that one sentence, the magic phrase we were all hoping might somehow fix everything, never came.
"Shikiya, sorry for bothering you."
With only that quietly spoken line, Tsukinoki-senpai turned and left the store.
Before I could move, Komari stepped forward.
"I-I'll go after Tsukinoki-senpai."
"Yeah. Thanks, Komari."
She gave a firm nod and chased after Tsukinoki-senpai, slipping out of the cafe.
Not long after, as the background murmur of the cafe finally returned-
Shikiya-san, who had been standing motionless in silence, pulled a bill from her wallet and set it on the table.
"Sorry... take care of the bill..."
Then, with an unsteady step, she too left the shop.
As I stood there, unsure whether to follow, Yakishio gently pushed my back.
"Nukkun, go after her."
"...Is it really okay for me to?"
Shikiya-san has just been rejected by someone she had been close with.
The meaning or reason for me to be by her side... thoughts that had no answer swirled in my head.
"In times like this, people want to be alone-"
This time, Yakishio pushed me firmly.
"But just as much- they feel really alone when they are."
Her deep brown eyes conveyed something more than words.
As I stepped out of the shop, I instinctively brought my hand to my flushed cheek and looked up at the darkened sky.
It's starting to rain.
*
Shikiya-san walked along the sidewalk by the roadside, headed toward Tsuwabuki High School.
The fragile winter dusk is quickly erased by the sparse, cold rain.
Cars passed by, their headlights illuminating Shikiya-san's feet as she walked through the growing darkness.
I ran to catch up and fell in step beside her.
"Are you okay? Um, where are you going?"
"Home... Going home..."
Shikiya-san murmured in her usual powerless, but almost childlike voice.
"Where's your house, senpai? I'll walk you part of the-"
As if chasing the sound of her voice, the rain began to fall even harder.
Guiding her gently, I led Shikiya-san to take shelter under the awning of a nearby apartment building.
Though it's still before sunset, the sky has gone as dark as if it had been painted over.
I let out a breath of relief and glanced over at Shikiya-san beside me.
Droplets from her soaked bangs slid down her pale cheek.
I reached into my jacket pocket, only to realize I had left my handkerchief somewhere.
Typical me, falling short when it actually counts.
"The rain doesn't seem like it's going to stop. I'll go buy an umbrella. Can you wait here a little?"
"It's fine... I called... a taxi."
Shikiya-san stared blankly at her rain-spattered phone screen.
Her face, lit by the smartphone's backlight, looked even paler than usual.
"Are you cold?"
"...Don't know."
She murmured faintly.
Is she feeling so unwell that she can't even sense the cold? The thought made me worry.
"Koto-san... I don't understand her."
Her voice went even more fragile.
"Um, well, she can be a bit one-sided sometimes. Please don't let it get to you too much."
"...You think so?"
Still staring downward, Shikiya-san pinched a clump of wet bangs stuck to her forehead and tilted her head.
"Was I… bothering you guys…?"
"Huh? No, not at all. This time we were the ones who asked you for help."
I offered her a tissue I had found buried deep in my pocket.
"Thank you… You're kind."
She took a sheet and gently wiped her damp forehead.
"My little sister must have slipped them in there. I'm not really that kind."
Getting called "kind" just for offering a tissue, it's like something out of a rom-com.
As that thought crossed my mind, her fingertip brushed lightly against mine.
"Then... just for now... be kind to me."
Huh? What does that-
Her finger touched mine again as I froze in place.
So in other words… she wants me to hold her hand?
No, wait. If I took that literally and touched her hand, wouldn't that count as harassment?
Back when "head-pats" were trending, all sorts of tragedies happened because of misunderstandings.
"Um, Shikiya-senpai…?"
No response.
She stood completely still, close enough for our shoulders to touch.
The taxi hasn't arrived yet.
Once more, her fingertip brushed against mine, then slipped away.
She did it again, and again. But the fourth time, when her finger touched mine, she didn't pull away.
…I don't know how much time has passed since that.
It probably wasn't very long, but to me, it felt like forever.
So when her finger finally began to pull away, I took her hand in mine.
Her fingers are so slender, so cold.
And like she was cradling a fragile bird, she gently closed her hand around mine.
It wasn't about romance or anything like that. It's something much simpler.
Just the overwhelming need to feel someone's warmth, that need came through with painful clarity.
Her profile, turned slightly away, wore the same blank expression as always.
And that's when I realized for the first time-
This girl doesn't shed tears when she cries.
Intermission: The Reason We're Not a Couple
"Uh, I'm gonna go to the restroom for a bit..."
Sunday, inside a karaoke box.
As Nukumizu fled the room like he was running away, only Yakishio and Tiara were left behind.
Silence descended. Yakishio took a sip of her oolong tea, then shifted seats to sit beside Tiara.
"Hey, Ba-chan?"
"Ba…? Eh, you mean me?"
Yakishio nodded matter-of-factly and pointed a microphone at her.
"Now then, a question. Ba-chan, are you going out with Nukkun?"
"Wha!? W-Why would you think that!?"
Fwweee! Tiara's shrill voice triggered an ear-piercing feedback whine.
Yakishio didn't flinch. Instead, she leaned in and pushed the mic even closer.
"The way you two were sitting earlier, there's no mistaking it. Normal study sessions don't get that cozy, you know?"
"T-That was!"
Tiara snatched the mic from her.
"It was because there was only one workbook! Is there a problem with that!? Is it somehow strange for me to study with a boy!?"
Tiara blurted it all out in one breath, then, panting, handed the mic back to Yakishio.
"Uh... yeah, you're right. There's nothing weird about that."
Pushed back by the sheer force of Tiara's outburst, Yakishio nodded and switched the mic off with a click.
Tiara drained her now-cold tea and began speaking in a calmer tone.
"Nukumizu-san and I simply have a bit of a connection. We were holding a study session, that's all. More importantly, Yakishio-san, what exactly is your relationship with him?"
"Eh? I'm in the Literature Club with him. And today, I was invited-"
Mid-sentence, Yakishio frowned and looked up at the ceiling.
"Wait, was I actually invited…?"
"Excuse me? Are you saying you weren't invited, and you still came?"
Yakishio folded her arms and tilted her head.
"Hmm, I don't really get it myself, but like, thinking back, I was never directly asked, but somehow I ended up coming to karaoke."
"...I see."
Tiara gave a firm nod, like she had just solved a great mystery.
"That's one of the classic techniques used by marriage fraudsters."
"Eh? Marriage fraud?"
"Yes. It's a method of luring people through vague and ambiguous language, all while evading responsibility. For example, instead of saying 'Let's get married', they say, 'I can't marry you because I'm in debt'. Now, what would you do if someone you wanted to marry told you that?"
"Debt's serious! I would say, 'Let's work together to pay it off' and-"
Yakishio clapped her hands as if realizing something.
"You're finally catching on. See, by letting the victim assume paying off the debt means marriage is possible, the scammer makes them act voluntarily. That would mean Nukumizu-san, as a high schooler, is already employing marriage scammer techniques."
"Wait, I'm getting scammed? But it was Yana-chan who messaged me, though."
"Whoever that is, involving third parties or fake supporters is another classic tactic."
Tiara shot a sharp glare toward the door Nukumizu had exited.
Yakishio tilted her head, watching Tiara's intense expression curiously.
"But Nukkun doesn't seem like that type, though. He's more like completely unaware, or just too genuine. Doesn't seem like he's into any kind of mind games."
"Well, that's true. He's not the type to be so calculating. He lacks the aptitude required for a successful marriage scammer. Even today, for the most part, he was just completely inconsiderate…"
Tiara muttered to herself as she poured tea from her thermos.
"Did something happen, Ba-chan?"
"It's not like anything happened, per se. But regardless of who it's with, going out is a lot of effort for a girl, right?"
"Ehh... yeah, I guess that's true."
Yakishio lied casually.
"It's not like I want him to notice or anything, but Nukumizu-san really is kind of oblivious when it comes to how much effort girls put in, isn't he?"
"Ahh, totally. Nukkun's like that. Whoever falls for him is gonna have a hard time."
"Indeed. A textbook example of an enemy to girls."
"Seriously, unforgivable, Nukkun~"
The two of them exchanged a glance and broke into cheerful laughter.
Just then, the door creaked open, and Nukumizu cautiously peeked inside.
"...Huh? What? Why are both of you looking at me like that?"
"This. This right here."
"Yes, exactly this."
As the two girls laughed again, Nukumizu let out a long, resigned sigh-
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