Section 3

Chapter 2

The train swayed along with a rhythmic clatter.

Glancing to my side, I saw her, looking about thirty percent happier than usual.

──How on earth did it come to this?

"Is something the matter?"

"...No, it's nothing."

Noticing my gaze, a look of mild curiosity colored her deep, ocean-blue eyes. The moment I shook my head, her expression returned to normal.

In her hands, she held a pure white umbrella, carefully wrapped in plastic to keep the rainwater from dripping onto anything nearby.

Right now, she and I... Nagi Shinonome and I were on our way to my apartment.

A while back, I had turned down a study session with Shinonome to study with my friend Eiji and the others instead. At the time, I had promised her:

"I'll definitely make it up to you."

"Just tell me whenever you want. I'm usually free, so even if it's the day of, I'll definitely clear my schedule next time."

──That was what I had said.

In truth, I had no plans today. Living on my own meant there was no one at home, so if you asked whether there was a problem or not──there was a massive one.

Specifically, the fact that no one was home was extremely bad. To put it plainly: a girl was coming over to the apartment of a guy who lived alone.

Of course, I had no intention of trying anything. She had a fear of men, and──wait.

"Shinonome."

"Yes, what is it?"

"You took the train all the way to my school, right? Didn't you push yourself too hard?"

Shinonome had androphobia. And it was by no means mild. In fact, it caused her enough anxiety to disrupt her everyday life. Just getting through an ordinary day must have built up an incredible amount of stress.

"If you ask whether I am fine or not, I cannot honestly say I am fine."

Her blue eyes turned straight toward me. Refusing to lie, she gave me a candid answer.

"However, it is also true that I am gradually getting better. The thought of you catching a cold, Minori-kun, was far more frightening to me just now."

"...Sorry."

"Please do not apologize. There are other words I would much rather hear than an apology, Minori-kun."

I started to offer a small bow, but her words stopped me. The corners of her lips softened into a faint smile as she quietly waited for the words I was about to say.

"Thank you. For bringing an umbrella and coming to meet me."

"You are very welcome."

Watching Shinonome nod in satisfaction, before I knew it, my own expression had relaxed into a smile as well.

◆◆◆

"Come on in. I tidied up a bit, but... sorry if anything's an eyesore."

"Not at all. I was the one who sprang this on you so suddenly, after all. Pardon the intrusion."

Opening the door, I welcomed Shinonome inside.

"So this is your home, Minori-kun. It's quite spacious."

"It's a one-bedroom. Pretty big for a high schooler living alone, but my parents insisted on it so 'my friends wouldn't feel cramped when they visit.'"

"I see. You have wonderful parents."

"Yeah. I really lucked out with them....The living room is this way. Once you put your things down, I'll give you a quick tour of the bathroom and washroom."

"Thank you very much."

After showing Shinonome around and washing our hands, we returned to the living room. She sat down on the sofa, looking slightly restless. Somehow, seeing her fidget made me feel awkward as well.

"Are you nervous?"

"Yes... I suppose I am. Entering someone else's home... especially a gentleman's home, is a first for me."

──A first, huh.

Hearing her put it like that made me nervous, too. But then again... since she had made me her very first friend, visiting a friend's house was probably a first for her as well. I had to do my best to make sure this didn't become a bad memory.

As I was turning that over in my mind, I realized Shinonome was staring intently at me.

"Um, Minori-kun. Would you mind sitting next to me?"

With that, Shinonome lightly patted the empty cushion beside her. My body stiffened reflexively, prompting her to speak up in a fluster.

"U-Um... You have always stayed by my side, Minori-kun....I feel at ease when you are next to me."

Ah, the sound nearly slipped from my mouth.

So that was why I had been feeling uneasy, too.

"We felt the same way, then."

"Did you feel that way as well, Minori-kun?"

This time, an "Ah" really did escape with my breath. As I sat down beside her, the lingering awkwardness vanished in an instant.

"This feels much more natural."

"Fufu. We match, then."

Shinonome smiled bashfully. More than embarrassed, she seemed genuinely happy. That was what her gentle smile conveyed to me.

"C-Come to think of it. We were talking about rewards, weren't we?"

Feeling like I would be swept away by her pace at this rate, I looked away from her and brought up our conversation from the walk over.

"...Yes, that's right. We both worked hard on our studies. What do you think?"

"Yeah, sounds good to me. You helped me out a ton, after all, Shinonome."

"The feeling is mutual....In that case, may I go first?"

Shinonome's voice stiffened just a fraction. When I turned my gaze back to her, I found myself unable to look away.

Her snow-white skin had flushed into a translucent, jewel-like crimson.

Her pale pink lips parted softly, silently practicing the words she was about to weave. Finally, letting out a soft sigh──

"I-I want you to pat my head and praise me."

──She said.

For a moment, I thought the language processing center of my brain had completely short-circuited. It sounded like something she would never say in a million years... but then I caught myself and asked if that was really true.

I shouldn't jump to conclusions. If Shinonome had gathered the courage to ask for this, I shouldn't shoot her down.

"I'll say yes right off the bat. But before that, mind if I ask why?"

"...! Thank you very much."

After offering a word of thanks, she kept her flushed cheeks steady and continued with a serious expression.

"I told you before that, following my father's teachings, I have always avoided showing weakness to others, didn't I?"

"Yeah, I remember."

"Yes. Taking those words to heart──ever since childhood, I have always strived to be noble and strong. That is why... it is a bit embarrassing to admit, but I couldn't even act spoiled around my own family."

...I see.

"A month ago, I thought it was fine to live my entire life like that, never leaning on anyone."

Her deep, ocean-blue eyes locked onto mine, threatening to draw me in endlessly.

Her cheeks were soft and gentle... relaxed in an uncharacteristically vulnerable warmth.

"'I'll never betray you, Shinonome. So, show me your usual self,' is what you told me, wasn't it?"

Yeah, I did say that. There was no lie in those words.

When I nodded with that conviction, she gave a relieved nod in return.

"...I-I have kept it hidden all this time. But the truth is, I am quite a spoiled child."

"A-A spoiled child, huh."

"Y-Yes....I thought that maybe, to the Minori-kun of now, it would be all right to show that side of me."

"That is why," she murmured softly, tentatively reaching a hand toward me──before letting it drop onto her lap as if the strength had suddenly left it.

"I have worked very hard all this time....That is why I want to be spoiled by you, Minori-kun."

Her voice was small, but her words were aimed straight at my heart.

As if to brush away every trace of anxiety in her eyes, I reached out my hand.

"I think you've been working incredibly hard, Shinonome."

I gently rested my hand atop her snow-white hair. To avoid messing up her hairstyle, I stroked it as softly as possible... though I had no idea what the proper etiquette for patting someone's head was.

"It hasn't been long since I met you, Shinonome, but all your effort came through loud and clear. Every single one of your gestures is graceful, and your demeanor is so gentle. Doing so well academically is all because of the hard work you've put in, too."

Just studying and memorizing the material was something plenty of people could do. But she went a step beyond that, understanding it deeply enough to teach it with absolute clarity. That wasn't a skill just anyone possessed.

"You're amazing, Shinonome. You're really doing your best. Your efforts have saved me time and time again."

From the bottom of my heart, brimming with gratitude, I conveyed my feelings to her.

"Thank you."

She was trembling slightly. A thin veil of moisture glazed the eyes peeking through her bangs. Even so, she made no move to hide her face.

"It's fine. Just do whatever you want to do."

"...I would like to borrow your chest for just a little while."

"Sure."

With a soft thump, she leaned into me, collapsing her weight against my body. Her fingers tightly bunched the fabric of my shirt.

"Thank you, Minori-kun."

Her voice trembled, muffled against my clothes.

"You're welcome."

Thinking this might make things easier for her, I replied, and sure enough, a quiet giggle slipped out from against my chest.

We stayed like that for about ten minutes.

◆◆◆

"I apologize for showing you such an unsightly display."

"It wasn't unsightly at all....Honestly, I was happy you relied on me."

I offered those words to Shinonome, whose eyelids were faintly flushed.

"Even so, I am sorry. I ended up soiling your uniform as well."

"You really don't need to worry about that. I was going to wash it anyway. It's probably bothering you, so I'll go change real quick. Just give me a second."

Leaving Shinonome in the living room, I stepped away to change.

Entering my bedroom... I leaned back against the closed door and slid down to the floor.

"...Man, this is seriously dangerous on so many levels."

A side of her shown only to me. Acting spoiled only around me. And coming from a girl who was usually so dignified and refined.

I knew it was improper. Even so──I was undeniably thrilled to discover this new side of her.

It felt like it would take quite a while for this heat to leave my cheeks.

◆◆◆

"Now then, shall we move on to your reward, Minori-kun?"

The moment I returned, Shinonome greeted me with that question. Pondering for a moment, I sat down beside her again and voiced the honest thoughts in my head.

"A reward, huh. I gave it some thought, but nothing really came to mind."

"Anything is fine, you know. I made quite an unreasonable request myself, after all."

"It wasn't unreasonable....And just so you know, if you ever want that again, Shinonome, I'll do it as many times as you like."

"Really?!"

Shinonome practically pounced on the words before I could even finish. Fighting back the urge to smile, I did my best to maintain a composed expression and nodded.

"Taking a breather isn't something you only do once; you're supposed to do it regularly. If someone like me is good enough, you can borrow my hands or my chest whenever you want."

"...! Thank you so very much. In that case, I shall ask for it regularly."

"Well then," Shinonome fell into deep thought.

"If that is the case, I must make mine something that can be done regularly as well."

"You don't have to overthink it that much. For now, I still haven't thought of a reward, so... I'll keep brainstorming."

"Understood. Then... let's see. Would it be all right if I started preparing dinner?"

"Yeah, sure. Is there anything I can help with?"

"I am alri──no. In that case, would you keep me company and chat with me while I cook?"

"I don't mind that at all."

Come to think of it, I hadn't shown her around the kitchen yet. The layout was probably unfamiliar, so I needed to explain where things were. With that in mind, the two of us headed into the kitchen.

──And while I was explaining, the incident occurred.

As Shinonome reached to put on an apron, her movements froze. Looking puzzled, she inspected the apron, then checked the seasonings and various utensils... and turned her gaze to me.

"...Minori-kun. Do you not cook for yourself?"

Startled, my posture instantly straightened.

"Ah─, well, um....Yeah. I don't."

"What do you do for your meals?"

I instinctively averted my eyes. It hurt. Her sharp gaze piercing my cheek was genuinely painful. This was one of those situations where there was no making excuses.

"...E-Eating out, or convenience store bento."

"May I ask you one question?"

Ah, she was mad. A faint aura of irritation was radiating from her.

"I rarely eat out or buy convenience store bento, so I am not entirely familiar with the details, but... have you been eating with nutritional balance in mind, Minori-kun?"

"...I've just been eating whatever I felt like, yeah."

"I see."

Shinonome rested her hand against her chin, contemplating the matter with absolute seriousness.

"Minori-kun, what do you usually have for lunch, by the way?"

"Savory stuffed bread from the school store."

"...I see."

Shinonome let out a soft sigh.

"You have been living on your own since starting high school, correct?"

"Yes."

"In that case, it is understandable that cooking might be too much to manage. I do not know the hardships of living alone, so I have no right to preach to you."

At those words, I breathed a small sigh of relief. But that relief was short-lived.

"However, that is a separate issue entirely. Food is the source of life. At this rate, there is a very real possibility you will ruin your health, Minori-kun."

"...Yes, ma'am."

"Therefore, I have a proposal....Before that, let me finish getting ready."

Shinonome retied the apron she had half put on and pulled a hair tie from her pocket.

Holding the hair tie between her lips, she deftly tied her hair back into a single ponytail. It was a classic scene straight out of a manga, but seeing it in real life had a devastating amount of charm... I thought, though as her gaze snapped back to me, I hastily straightened my posture once more.

"Every Saturday for lunch and dinner, as well as bento for weekdays, I will cook for you. Would that be acceptable as a 'reward'?"

"Wait, what?!"

Blindsided by the absurdly generous offer, my voice cracked.

"N-No, no, no. I'd feel way too bad."

"Even if you say no, I am doing it. It does not even have to count toward your 'reward.'"

Even when I insisted I would feel too guilty, she stubbornly shook her head. Wondering why on earth she was so adamant, Shinonome quickly laid out her reasoning.

"In the first place, I enjoy cooking."

"Y-Yeah."

"On top of that, making bento for two is hardly different from making it for one. In fact, cooking for two is easier. Single servings often leave unused ingredients to go to waste."

"Is... that how it works?"

"Yes, it is."

Her unwavering logic left me completely speechless.

She had already helped me out so much. I had debts of gratitude I could never hope to repay as it was, so was it really okay to let them pile up even higher?

"Then how about you make your decision after tasting my cooking?"

Perhaps taking pity on my indecision, Shinonome offered a compromise.

"Because I am completely confident you will say, 'I want to eat this again.'"

Saying so──Shinonome gave a rare, daring little smirk.

◆◆◆

"Whoa..."

Looking at the spread laid out on the dining table, the murmur escaped me automatically.

How long had it been since a warm plate of curry had graced my table?

"You are exaggerating. It is merely ordinary curry."

"No, the idea of making curry from scratch at home didn't even cross my mind to begin with."

"That may be true. Living alone, making a pot of curry means eating it for days on end, after all."

For the first few days after moving in, I had tried cooking for myself. But it was only the simplest dishes imaginable; I had never dreamed of tackling curry.

"Well then, shall we eat before it gets cold?"

"Yeah."

The two of us sat down across from each other. And simultaneously, we pressed our hands together.

"Thanks for the food."

"Yes, please enjoy. Thanks for the food."

It was right around the time my stomach was starting to growl, so the rich, drifting aroma of spices made me swallow hard.

First, I scooped up a spoonful of rice with a small amount of curry. Steam was billowing off the piping-hot food, so I blew on it gently before putting it into my mouth.

"...!"

A sharp, pleasant heat and spice prickled my tongue, perfectly mellowed by the sweetness of the rice. The savory umami rendered from the meat and vegetables danced across my taste buds.

"...Delicious. Insanely delicious."

"Fufu, I am glad. It seems it suits your palate."

Shinonome had apparently been watching me anxiously. Hearing my reaction, she let out a relieved, radiant smile.

I immediately went in for a second and third bite.

The beef was so tender it practically melted on the tongue with every chew. The potatoes were fluffy and piping hot, nearly scalding my mouth in the best way possible.

"There is plenty more, so please take your time and eat slowly."

Directing a warm, fond gaze my way, Shinonome said those words while blowing on her own spoonful to cool it down.

"Seriously, this is incredible, Shinonome."

"Fufu. Thank you very much."

"I should be the one thanking you. Really, thank you."

It felt like it had been ages since I had eaten such a... deeply heartwarming meal. With every bite, not just my stomach, but my very heart felt nourished and full.

"It's so good. Truly."

"Even without you repeating it so many times, I can tell just from your face."

When I told her again, she returned a warm, affectionate smile. Wondering if my emotions were really written that clearly on my face, I touched my cheek, but couldn't tell.

"You really do make the most expressive faces, Minori-kun."

Realizing I had been caught off guard, Shinonome let out a soft laugh. It wasn't teasing in a mean way, but it still made my ears burn.

Even as we continued eating, Shinonome kept stealing amused, lingering glances at me.

"By the way, I can prepare many different cuisines. I specialize in traditional Japanese dishes and fish, but I am confident in other areas as well. If you have any requests, I will make whatever you like."

Swallowing the curry in my mouth, I looked up. Shinonome puffed out her chest with quiet pride, the corners of her lips lifting.

"What do you say? Would you please allow me to make your bento, Minori-kun?"

Faced with that look... there was no way I could possibly say no.

"...I'll be in your care, then."

"Yes, leave it all to me."

Lightly thumping her chest with a small fist, she smiled with immense, radiant satisfaction.

◆◆◆

Monday. With midterm exams finally over, a brief period of relief washed over the school.

Or at least, it was supposed to, but I found myself completely overwhelmed.

"Rough morning, huh? Looked like hell out there. Bought you a cola, so take it."

"Ah, thanks. Thanks for earlier, too."

Last week, Shinonome... the "Ice Princess" had shown up at my school. On top of that, we had shared an umbrella, which led to half the student body interrogating me relentlessly since homeroom.

For the record, Eiji hadn't just stood by and watched... he had stepped in to rescue me at just the right moment. Being able to defuse the tension without making a scene was proof of his signature thoughtfulness.

"Well, let's change spots for lunch today. You can't even eat in peace in the classroom."

"Good idea."

Nodding at Eiji's suggestion, I slung my bag over my shoulder.

◆◆◆

The stairwell landing leading up to the rooftop. It was usually known as a prime confession spot, but according to Eiji, no one was scheduled to use it today. It was the perfect place for a conversation we didn't want overheard, which was why we ended up here.

Two guys sitting side by side on a romantic confession bench was a bit of an awkward picture, but it was better not to dwell on it.

"Ah, forgot to hit the school store. Wanna head down together?"

"...I brought a bento today."

"Huh? A bento? You, Souta? Wait, it's not... a convenience store bento?!"

While agonizing over how to handle this, I rested the bento box on my lap. Eiji's eyes went wide as he sputtered in disbelief. And fairly so. Eiji knew full well that I never cooked. If anything, he was the kind of friend who would invite me over, saying, "If cooking's a pain, just come crash at my place for dinner."

"Whoa, whoa, whoa, hold the phone. No way. Is it really what I think it is?"

"I have a pretty good idea of what you're imagining....And you're pretty much spot on."

"Are you serious?!"

There was no point in making excuses. He already knew about Shinonome, so being honest was my only real option. Besides, I had her permission to talk about it.

"Uh─yeah, she found out the other day. That I don't cook."

"Oh? Found out? How'd she figure that out?"

A broad grin spread across his face. It was the smirk of a guy who had already pieced the puzzle together.

"...Who knows."

"Most likely she saw that the cooking oil and seasonings in your kitchen hadn't even been opened."

"What are you, psychic?"

Having him guess with pinpoint accuracy was downright terrifying....To be entirely accurate, there was one more reason. But there was no way in hell I was telling him that.

Shinonome had put on the apron in my kitchen... and said:

"It doesn't smell like you at all, Minori-kun."

Her words echoed through my head. Just when I had finally managed to push the memory aside, it came rushing right back.

"Oho? Looks like there's another juicy detail in there."

"Quit casually reading my mind."

Eiji burst into a hearty laugh. Telling me I was an open book, he left me with zero counterarguments as I popped open the lid of the bento.

"Whoa, that is seriously elaborate."

"Yeah....Honestly, I didn't expect her to go this far either."

The white rice was lightly dusted with sesame salt, accompanied by a colorful, mouthwatering spread: sweet-and-savory beef and burdock shigureni, deep-fried white fish, simmered kabocha pumpkin, and rolled tamagoyaki.

"Seriously incredible."

"I'm not giving you a single bite."

"I'm not begging for table scraps, man....Though if I hadn't seen her with my own eyes the other day, I still wouldn't believe it."

"I'll admit the gap between her public persona and this is insane."

If you told the April version of me about the current Shinonome, he would have laughed in your face. Not only having the "Ice Princess" cook me homemade bento... but ending up patting her head on a regular basis.

I was taking the whole headpat reward thing to the grave; Eiji would tease me relentlessly until graduation if he ever found out.

With that thought settled, we pressed our hands together. Eiji might look like a frivolous slacker on the surface, but he had surprisingly good manners about things like this.

"Man, it's so good."

The shigureni was sweet and savory, pairing brilliantly with the rice. The white fish was flaky and firm, seasoned to absolute perfection.

"You're scarfing that down with serious gusto. Weren't you usually way more indifferent about food?"

"A-Am I?"

Realizing I had been shoveling food into my mouth, I slowed my chopsticks at his comment.

"Nah, it's great. Eating with that much enthusiasm is the best compliment the chef could ask for."

"...I guess so."

Deciding there was no need to put on airs in front of Eiji anyway, I went back to eating, though his smug, teasing gaze remained pinned on me the entire time.

"Alright, cough it up. When the hell did you get so tight with the 'Ice Princess'?"

I had anticipated the interrogation. I had discussed it with Shinonome beforehand and established how much I could share.

"I had the chance to help her out once. After that, she started tutoring me."

"Bull. Tutoring? She treks all the way to your school in the pouring rain to share an umbrella, and now she's making you homemade bento... Dude, you're practically dating. Actually, that's beyond dating! Even Kirika hasn't made me a bento yet!"

"W-We are not dating! Look... Shinonome just doesn't have many friends, so she treasures the one she has that much more."

"Even if that's true... well, whatever you say, man."

Eiji swallowed the rest of his retort, taking pity on me. I let my guard down for a split second.

"So? Do you like her?"

"Cough?!"

"My bad, my bad! Terrible timing on my part."

A grain of rice went down the wrong pipe, sending me into a coughing fit. Not intending to actually choke me, Eiji frantically thumped me on the back.

"Y-You jerk..."

"Sorry, sorry. But you know I'm not the type to beat around the bush, right?"

"...I know, but still."

Exhaling a long breath, I took a sip of tea and stared down at the bento box.

"I don't really know... or rather, to be completely honest, I can't say for sure."

A self-deprecating chuckle escaped my lips.

"I've never had a crush on anyone before. Having a female friend is a completely new experience for me, too."

"You've got Kirika."

"Nishizawa is a female friend, sure, but she's your girlfriend, Eiji. There's an underlying boundary that I will never view her with anything other than platonic friendship. But the feelings I have toward Shinonome are clearly different from that... though whether that difference means 'romantic love' or not, I honestly haven't figured out."

Besides, even if I really did fall in love with her, I would have to keep it buried deep inside....The only reason I was allowed to stand by her side right now was because she trusted me. I could never allow myself to harbor selfish, impure motives.

"Hmm, I gotcha. Well, ain't that fine?"

I hadn't given him a particularly exciting answer, but Eiji's response was surprisingly gentle.

"You've got plenty of time. Just take it slow and figure it out as you go."

"...Yeah."

"Oh, but let me ask you just one thing."

Just when I thought the topic was closed, Eiji turned to me with sudden seriousness. Seeing his earnest expression, I set my chopsticks down.

"Ten years from now... who do you want standing beside the 'Ice Princess,' Nagi Shinonome?"

"──That's..."

"You don't have to answer me right now. Just think about it, and as long as you find your own answer, that's all that matters."

I closed my mouth, which had begun to open, and let the question sink in.

Ten years from now, huh?

I tried to picture it.

Standing beside a fully grown, adult Shinonome. If... someone other than me was by her side.

I knew that was by far the more realistic outcome.

Shinonome was stunning, hardworking──an exceptionally charming woman.

Surely, an equally incredible man would be the one standing at her side.

And yet.

Just imagining the scene made my chest ache as if pierced by a blade. At the same time, a dark, possessive emotion surged to claim a massive part of my heart. No, that was... wrong. I shouldn't feel that way.

──Wishing that person would be me... was something I had no right to think.

◆◆◆

"Do you want to exchange contact info?"

On the train ride home. The moment we arrived at our usual spot between the cars, I brought it up.

"Is that... really all right?"

"I'm the one asking....Uh, you know, having each other's info is just convenient in general."

"W-Would you also be willing to keep me company and chat when you are free...?"

"Of course. I've got plenty of free time anyway... and I'd love to talk to you."

"In that case, absolutely! Please let us exchange!"

Shinonome eagerly pulled her smartphone from her bag and held it out toward me. Swept along by her enthusiasm, we fumbled through our screens and successfully exchanged contacts.

"I-It is done!"

Shinonome gazed down at her screen, beaming with pure joy.

"To tell you the truth, I was thinking of asking you from my end as well. That I wanted to exchange contacts."

"Really?"

"Yes. That is why I am so very happy right now."

Shinonome clutched the smartphone dearly against her chest. Watching her, a deep sense of relief and happiness washed over me. I was glad I asked.

"Ah, just to make sure, let me send you a test message."

Probably wanting to confirm that the chat worked properly. A moment later, a notification popped up on my screen. It was a sticker of a refined little black cat offering a polite bow.

"Yeah, came through loud and clear."

When I sent a sticker of a pure white dog in return, Shinonome's eyes lit up with a brilliant sparkle.

"Do you like doggies, Minori-kun?"

...Doggies?

"I-I do, yeah."

"I love them as well! Both doggies and kitties!"

I quietly closed my eyes for a single second.

──Calling them doggies and kitties... the gap from her usual demeanor was staggering.

"Someday, I would love to visit an animal cafe with you, where we can interact with the animal friends."

"Yeah... let's. Let's definitely go sometime."

With my heart thoroughly melted by her choice of words, I managed a nod.

◆◆◆

That night, a message popped up from Shinonome.

'Could you spare a little time?'

Wondering what was up, I picked up my phone.

'Yeah, what's going on?'

'If possible, I would love to speak on the phone. Would that be all right?'

'No problem at all.'

Come to think of it, she had mentioned wanting to call during our spare time on the way home.

Just seconds after I sent the reply, my phone began to ring.

"Hello, Minori-kun. Good evening."

"Hey, Shinonome. Good evening. Is something up?"

I asked, wondering if she needed something, but the line went quiet. Just as I started worrying the connection had dropped, her voice finally returned.

"...I just wanted to hear your voice, Minori-kun. Was that... unacceptable?"

Staring up at the ceiling, I squeezed my eyes shut.

──What kind of unfairly adorable reason was that?

"I-It's totally fine. I was just lounging around anyway."

"I am so glad..."

The murmur sounded like an accidental slip of the tongue. It was the first time I had ever heard her speak in a relaxed, informal register. A sudden wave of emotion tightened in my chest.

As I did my best to keep my composure, her soft giggle resonated through the receiver.

"It really is your voice, Minori-kun. You are truly right there, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I'm right here."

Calling someone outside of my family was a first for me, excluding Eiji. Hearing Shinonome's voice directly in my ear felt ticklish and warm.

"Actually, you see... I usually go to sleep by nine o'clock."

"That's super early."

In my case, I rarely went to bed before midnight. I wasn't sure if that was normal for a high schooler, though.

Shinonome let out an energetic little "Yes," her tone noticeably bouncy.

"I wake up at five in the morning, after all. Preparing bento and performing a piece of traditional Japanese dance is my daily routine."

"...That's seriously impressive."

Dancing first thing in the morning was incredible enough, but one detail caught my attention.

"Please don't overwork yourself with the bento."

"Ah, no, not at all! It is no burden whatsoever! As I mentioned before, making one serving or two is practically the same."

She didn't sound like she was just being polite. Pausing for a moment, her cheerful voice chimed through the speaker once more.

"There are other words I would much rather hear, however."

I closed my eyes. Telling myself there was no need to act tough or embarrassed, I opened them again.

"Today's bento was amazing. Honestly, I wish I could eat it every single day."

"Yes, leave it to me! I will prepare an exceptionally delicious bento tomorrow as well, so please look forward to it."

"Yeah. I'm really looking forward to it."

I assumed the conversation would wrap up there──but.

"Come to think of it, Minori-kun. When will our exam results be returned?"

"Hm? Let's see. Most of the individual tests should be handed back next week, but the overall grade rankings probably won't be posted until the week after."

"It seems our school follows a similar schedule. In that case, shall we hold our result announcement the Saturday after next? Are you free?"

"Yeah, I'm wide open. Let's do it then."

"Yes! I will cook plenty of delicious food for us!"

My test scores were definitely going to be a lot higher this time around. I really hoped Shinonome's English score improved too, even though I hadn't taught her that much.

"That reminds me! Could you tell me your favorite foods, Minori-kun... even just specific ingredients would be wonderful. I would love to use it as a reference for the future."

"Hm? Sure. There's a lot, though..."

I answered the questions Shinonome fired off one by one. I didn't have many foods I disliked, but I had plenty of favorites. As we kept talking, however, Shinonome's responses gradually began to slow.

"I... see. I do not have many foods I dislike either..."

Stifling a yawn, each syllable of her words grew heavier and more slurred. Glancing at the clock, I waited for her to finish speaking before gently cutting in.

"It's already past nine. Sorry for keeping you. You need to sleep, right?"

"...No. I am not sleepy yet... yaaawn."

Finally unable to fight it, a tiny, adorable yawn leaked through the phone.

"I still... want to keep talking with you, Minori-kun."

Hearing that, my breath hitched in my throat.

From the absolute bottom of my heart, I thanked the heavens that Shinonome wasn't standing in front of me right now.

There was zero doubt I was making a face completely unfit for public viewing. Muting the call for a few seconds, I took a deep, steadying breath. My racing heartbeat and the boiling heat in my cheeks didn't subside in the slightest, but I managed to stabilize my breathing.

"We can always talk again tomorrow, right?"

"Is it... really all right for me to call you tomorrow as well?"

"Of course. I'm free at this time anyway."

A sudden urge to push back just a little bit overtook me. It felt unfair... that I was the only one losing my mind here.

"I want to talk to you too, Shinonome."

"Fufu. Then we match."

...And my counterattack was instantly parried by a counter of her own. I couldn't win.

Wait, what was I even doing?...Eiji's question from earlier must have gotten into my head.

I forced myself to switch gears. I couldn't keep keeping her awake when she was practically falling over.

"Alright, see you tomorrow. Good night, Shinonome."

"...Good night, Minori-kun."

Soft, rhythmic breathing came through the speaker almost immediately. Even her sleepy breathing sounded somehow crystal clear and pure.

Carefully ending the call without making a sound, I collapsed face-first onto my bed.

"Haaah..."

I tried to expel the chaotic storm of emotions swirling in my chest with a single breath. But it wasn't that easy. Complicated, overwhelming feelings kept bubbling up from deep within.

It wasn't like me at all, but if I had a body pillow right now, I probably would have squeezed it with all my might.

"She's way too cute, damn it..."

The words slipped out before I could stop them, prompting me to shake my head violently to drown out the noise.

It looked like it was going to take a long time to fall asleep tonight.

◆◇◆

Arriving at school early, I found myself with a bit of free time. Taking out my smartphone, I looked through my contacts for him. His name was right at the very top.

'What do you usually do during your spare time at school, Minori-kun?'

'Lately I've been studying, or Eiji comes over to chat. Eiji loves talking to people, after all.'

'That sounds very lively. I usually read books.'

Messaging Minori-kun yielded an almost instantaneous reply. Simply exchanging messages made it feel as though we were right next to each other, filling me with warmth.

Just then, I sensed a presence in front of my desk.

Looking up, a girl with a bright blonde ponytail swaying behind her stood smiling down at me.

"Mornin', Shinonome-chan."

"G-Good morning, Hayama-san."

I quickly sent a message letting Minori-kun know Hayama-san had arrived, then set my phone face down.

"Ah, sorry! Didn't mean to butt in on your private time."

"No, it is not a problem at all."

I intended to play it completely cool, but it seemed she had already guessed who I was texting.

"Look at you! You managed to exchange contacts with him! Did you make the first move, Shinonome-chan?"

"Thank you again for all your advice back then. But no, he was the one who asked me."

"No way, for real? Damn, look at him stepping up! Good for you!"

Warmed by Hayama-san's genuine excitement, I gave a happy nod.

"Your cheeks are totally turning to mush, you know."

"...! Ah, thank you for telling me."

"Personally, I think you look way cuter like that, but I figured you'd want the heads-up."

"Yes... you are right."

That was close. Whenever I spoke with him, my guard dropped completely and my "true self" slipped out. I had to be careful.

"Judging by that smile, Friday went off without a hitch too, huh?"

"Come to think of it, I have not properly reported back to you yet. Thanks to your advice, everything went wonderfully."

Friday──going all the way to Minori-kun's school was a plan I had hatched after consulting with Hayama-san.

The goal was to seize the first available opportunity to visit his school. While it was improper of me to take advantage of his misfortune, him forgetting his umbrella had been the perfect opening.

"Ah, I wanna hear all the juicy details, but hold up a sec. Let's exchange contacts first!"

"Yes, of course. I apologize for turning you down before."

"Nah, don't sweat it! I'll admit I was pretty shocked since it was the first time anyone's ever rejected me, but I totally get why now."

Previously, when Hayama-san had asked for my contact information, I had turned her down. The reason was purely my own stubborn selfishness.

My very first friend──and the very first boy I had ever fallen for.

If I was going to exchange contact information for the first time in my life, I wanted it to be with Minori-kun. When I explained that to her, I had braced myself for her anger, but she had simply laughed and said, "Alright, I respect that."

Exchanging information with the effortlessly practiced Hayama-san, my cheeks softened slightly at the thought of having gained another precious friend.

"Awesome! Now we're officially friends, right?"

"Yes. I am truly sorry for making you wait."

"Seriously, don't worry about it!"

When I had told her I wanted to become close──I had stated that I wanted Minori-kun to be my first friend. I had prepared myself for rejection then as well, but instead, Hayama-san had happily listened to all my worries and given me endless advice on how to become his friend.

It had taken some time──but now, Hayama-san and I were finally friends.

"Hayama-san, if there is ever anything you need advice on or wish to talk about, please do not hesitate to reach out."

"Will do! And I'll text you whenever I'm bored, too. Now we can hang out whenever!"

"Please do invite me. I would be delighted to go."

──Just then, Hayama-san tapped out a quick message on her phone. Simultaneously, my smartphone buzzed against the desk.

Hayama-san glanced at my phone, then met my eyes, silently gesturing for me to read it. Realizing it was something meant to be kept private, I picked up the device.

'Hey, word got around about you sharing an umbrella with that guy on Friday and it's pretty much the hot topic right now. How do you wanna handle it?'

Ah, I see. So that was why there were far more eyes on me than usual this morning.

'Personally, I'd say just let the rumor run wild. It'll definitely cut down on the random guys trying to confess to you.'

Reading the follow-up message, I gave a small, resolute nod.

"By the way, Shinonome-chan! Word on the street is you were seen sharing an umbrella with some guy from another school on Friday. Is that true?"

The moment Hayama-san raised her voice, the entire classroom erupted into hushed murmurs.

"Wait, seriously?"

"No way... Tell me that's a lie."

"Could it be true? Her, sharing an umbrella with a guy?"

"Nah, impossible. This is the 'Ice Princess' we're talking about! It had to be a case of mistaken identity."

As if any of you know the first thing about me, I thought, swallowing the bitter words.

──How many of these people would have stepped in to save me back then? And without an ounce of selfish, impure motivation, at that....Hayama-san might have, I thought to myself as I nodded clearly.

"Yes, it is true."

The classroom's commotion doubled in volume. Hayama-san locked her gaze onto mine.

"Oh? And why'd you end up sharing an umbrella with him?"

Instantly, the noisy room fell deathly silent, everyone holding their breath for my answer.

"He appeared to have forgotten his umbrella, so I went to meet him."

"Heeh? So he's that important of a person to you, huh?"

Seeing Hayama-san's deliberately provocative grin, a genuine smile slipped across my face.

An important person.

"Yes. He is a very important person to me. Important enough that I could not bear the thought of him catching a cold."

"Whoa, even so, practically nobody goes all the way to another school just to pick a guy up! But hey, I guess that just shows how important he is!"

Hayama-san heavily emphasized the word "important," to which I offered a firm, unapologetic nod. The classroom instantly dissolved into utter chaos, creating such a massive uproar that the teacher had to step in and restore order a few minutes later.

Just as Hayama-san had predicted, the number of boys directing leering glances or attempting to confess to me dropped drastically after that.

◆◇◆

Saturday arrived. The exam rankings were scheduled to be released next weekend.

Cooking at his apartment, receiving my reward... and on the way back, Minori-kun went out of his way to escort me all the way to my home station.

"Thank you so very much for walking me this far."

"You're welcome. But you really don't need to worry about it. It's well within the scope of our original promise."

Nodding at his gentle words, I resolved in my heart never to take his kindness for granted.

"Well then, I will see you on Monday."

"Yeah, see you Monday. Are you really sure you're okay from here?"

"I will be fine. My driver has already arrived to pick me up."

I gratefully accepted his concern. In truth, I would have loved nothing more than for him to walk me all the way to my front door, but I couldn't impose on him that heavily.

Besides──I felt it was still far too early for him to meet Father.

"Let us talk plenty before going to bed tonight as well, Minori-kun."

"A-Ah, yeah. Go easy on me, though."

My heart fluttered with anticipation for the night ahead. After watching him board the train, I made my way toward the ticket gates.

Exiting the station, I spotted the car immediately. A sleek, high-end black vehicle. An unmistakable luxury sedan.

However, the moment I saw who was sitting in the driver's seat, a sharp wave of tension ran up my spine.

The pleasant warmth that had flushed my body instantly receded. No, not just my body.

Letting out a soft, measured breath, I cooled the lingering heat inside me....I was ready.

Slipping into the back seat, my eyes met his through the rearview mirror.

Pitch-black eyes, deep enough to swallow light itself.

"I apologize for keeping you waiting, Father."

──Father was sitting at the wheel. I did not voice the question of why.

"No, it is fine. You must have been surprised."

"...Yes, a little."

My mouth felt dry. To keep him from noticing, I tightened my small hands into fists.

"I felt that spending time like this was necessary on occasion. I insisted on taking over the driving duties today."

"I see. I am honored."

My response came out somewhat formal, but the sentiment was genuine.

I owed an insurmountable debt of gratitude to Father and Mother. Even setting that aside, they were individuals I respected with all my heart.

Confirming my seatbelt was fastened, Father pulled the car smoothly into traffic.

"I hear you have been spending more time with friends lately."

"I apologize."

"I am not reprimanding you. It is a good thing."

I was loved by Father, and by Mother. Regardless of blood ties, they had showered me with love and raised me with utmost care ever since I was a child.

That was precisely why I had to repay that debt.

"Starting tomorrow, I will devote myself fully to my lessons."

"Do not push yourself too hard. You are still young, Nagi. You should do what you enjoy, when you enjoy it."

"There is no issue. I practice traditional Japanese dance, tea ceremony, and flower arrangement because I genuinely love them."

"If that is the case, then very well, but..."

The conversation lapsed into silence for a moment. He had likely heard the details from Susaka-san, but feeling it was my duty to state it clearly, I opened my dry mouth.

"However, on Saturdays, I may return late just like today."

"You are visiting a friend's house, correct?"

"Yes."

Thump, thump. The sound of my racing heart began to ring in my ears.

──If he forbade it, I would have no choice but to obey. I tensed my posture, bracing for the verdict.

"You have my full permission, of course."

The gentle response caught me off guard, and the tension drained out of my entire body all at once.

"It brings me joy. Nagi has finally made a friend, after all."

"...I apologize for causing you worry."

"Think nothing of it. It is only natural for family."

A brief pause hung in the air. After a moment of contemplation, Father spoke again.

"If your plans with your friend ever conflict with your lessons, prioritize what you truly wish to do, Nagi. You are still young; please live a life without regrets."

"I will etch those words into my heart."

"There is no need to be so dramatic."

──A life without regrets.

I had heard about Father's past long ago. That was precisely why the thought crossed my mind.

Would I truly be able to live a life without regrets? No matter what path I chose, wouldn't I inevitably end up regretting something?

I knew agonizing over it right now served no purpose. Even so──Father's words sank deep into the core of my heart.

◆◇◆

On the Friday before our rankings were posted, Shinonome went shopping for clothes with a friend, which pushed back her commute. She had told me I could head home early, but since Eiji had free time as well, the two of us killed time together.

When Shinonome finally messaged me, it was time to meet her at the station... but.

"There are way more people than usual today."

The crowd was thick enough that the remark slipped out automatically.

The evening train was packed with people heading home. On a weekday, it was usually full of students, but since the sun had already set, the cars were filled with salarymen.

It wasn't quite a crush-load train, but moving around was definitely an ordeal.

Reaching the designated station, I was relieved to spot Shinonome near the front of the platform.

"Shinonome, it's pretty packed, so let's move fast. Hand me your bags."

"Ah, thank you very much."

Taking the heavy shopping bags from her hands, I made sure she boarded safely before guiding her to our usual spot.

"Sorry, I'm going to shift our positions a bit."

"Ah, yes. Understood."

Beside the door connecting the train cars, Shinonome leaned her back against the wall, putting us directly face-to-face. Usually, we stood shoulder to shoulder to look over textbooks together. But with so many men crammed around us, this was the only way to shield her from unwanted physical contact.

Her condition had improved, but when strange men got close, she still grew visibly anxious... and her expression showed a flicker of fear. Even now, tension was plain in her eyes. Or maybe that wasn't because of the crowd, but because of me.

"Sorry, Shinonome."

"No, it is completely fine. You are not frightening to me, Minori-kun... You are someone special, so please do not worry. More than that, thank you."

"I-It helps to hear you say that. You're welcome."

──Someone special.

She didn't mean it in a romantic way. She couldn't. I was just... projecting my own desperate hopes onto her words.

Telling myself that, I forced my breathing and heartbeat to steady before looking back up.

Shinonome's face was right in front of mine.

Her porcelain-white skin and deep, ocean-blue eyes were breathtaking. Her hair, even whiter than her skin, brushed against my fingers like fine silk. A soft, sweet fragrance drifted into my nose, throwing my brain into disarray.

Keep your cool, Souta.

Bracing against the crushing pressure from the crowd behind me, I opened my mouth to say something──the very next second.

"Whoa!"

"Kyaah!"

The train lurched violently with a massive jolt.

A heavy shock slammed into my back, pitching me forward with terrifying momentum──

Somehow, I managed to plant both hands against the wall to brace myself. But slamming into the metal at full force sent a sharp sting through my arms, making me wince in pain.

"A-Are you all right?!"

"Y-Yeah. I'm... totally fine."

I forced my expression to look normal, but Shinonome saw right through the lie. A look of mild frustration crossed her features.

"...For someone who is fine, you look like you are in quite a lot of pain."

She stared intensely at my arms... before locking her eyes onto mine. Her face was faintly──just faintly flushed with red.

"Minori-kun."

As if making up her mind, she spoke with quiet resolve.

"Please move your arms."

Her words caught me completely off guard.

"W-Wait, no! If I do that, I'll──"

"I do not mind....Please lean your weight against me. The thought of you being in pain is far worse."

She delivered the words with absolute conviction. I hesitated. Was it really okay?

"Please hurry. Or else I will poke you in the ribs."

Shinonome added playfully. A breathy laugh escaped my lips.

"Alright, I'm moving them."

"Yes. Bring it on."

With that, I pulled my aching arms back──

Clatter!

The train swayed again. Simultaneously, someone shoved hard against my back.

"──Ah."

Shinonome's face was right in front of mine.

Her blue eyes filled my entire field of view, her nose brushing against mine.

...We were close enough that our breaths mingled in the narrow space between us.

Just like that──

At the absolute last second, I managed to jerk my face to the side.

Something unimaginably soft grazed my lips for a fleeting fraction of a second... and in return, I felt that same softness brush against my cheek.

──I barely managed to rest my head beside Shinonome's ear.

Our bodies pressed entirely flush against one another. Her sweet, intoxicating scent filled my lungs, shaking my mind and making rational thought completely impossible.

...Her distinct, prominent softness was crushed flat against my chest.

"..."

I needed to apologize, but no words would form in my throat. Under the dazed illusion that even the inside of my mouth had turned sweet, my heart pounded so violently it felt ready to burst from my ribs.

Shinonome had to have noticed. There was no way she didn't.

However, at that moment, I registered a strange sensation.

I heard two distinct heartbeats overlapping. Belatedly, the reality hit me.

Shinonome's heart was hammering just as wildly as mine.

Thump-thump, thump-thump. The rapid, frantic pulse of her heart was transmitted directly through our clothes.

This was bad. Terrified of crossing a line, I tried to raise my lowered arms and brace against the wall again, but──

"Sh-Shinonome?"

"...You mustn't. Forcing yourself is bad, so──"

Shinonome's arms. Wrapped around my back.

"I-I am going to hold you so you cannot move."

The soft whisper tickled my ear. A shiver of pure, dizzying warmth crept up my spine, enveloping my entire body.

"Th-This is, seriously, a bit too..."

"B-But if I do not do this, you will only push yourself, Minori-kun....Besides."

Shinonome's soft, bell-clear voice resonated right against my ear. The illusion that my eardrums were melting sent tremors through my heart and brain.

"I-I do not dislike... No. I l-like being close to you, Minori-kun."

From the bottom of my heart, I thanked the heavens that she couldn't see my face right now.

Releasing the tension in my arms, I gently brought them around her back in return. Shinonome flinched slightly, then let out a quiet giggle.

"I might be even more of a spoiled child than I thought. Even though my heart is pounding so hard, I feel so strangely at ease."

"...I see."

"Yes."

"Me too."

When I murmured the confession, I heard her catch her breath. A moment later, a soft, happy laugh tickled my ear. We stayed wrapped in each other's warmth until the train pulled into the next station.

◆◆◆

"...Haaah."

How many times had I sighed today? Rolling around on my bed, I groaned into my pillow.

The cause was glaringly obvious. It was everything that had happened on the train ride home.

"That's just completely unfair..."

The warmth of her hands on my back, her body heat... that incredible softness, every single sensation remained vividly etched into my memory.

On top of that, what she had said:

"I-I do not dislike... No. I l-like being close to you, Minori-kun."

Instead of her usual polite, slightly reserved demeanor, she had acted with sudden, gentle assertiveness.

"Seriously, what am I supposed to make of that?"

With my brain in total disarray, I desperately tried to rationalize the situation.

The possibility of a massive misunderstanding was obviously on the table. Guys and girls handled platonic physical affection differently, after all.

For example, guys patting each other's heads or hugging... yeah, right. While those guys might exist somewhere, there were certainly none in my social circle. Eiji definitely wasn't that type, either.

On the other hand, girls. Even if it was only a certain subset of them, hugging or holding hands casually seemed almost second nature.

Shinonome might just lean toward that side of things....No.

"She really doesn't seem like that type at all, though."

No matter how much I tried to rationalize it, her calling me a "special person" kept flashing across my mind.

"Haaah..."

Another heavy sigh escaped me. Sleep was looking like a distant dream tonight.

Just then, my phone chimed with a notification. The sender was──

'Um. Are you still awake?'

It was Shinonome.

◆◇◆

"Uuu... Wh-What on earth was I thinking?!"

Even though I had climbed into bed to sleep, rest eluded me entirely. The events of the evening kept playing on a loop in my head.

Because I lacked everyday clothing, I had gone shopping with Hayama-san after school. That had delayed my commute, leading to a crowded train. And then, that sudden accident had occurred──

Minori-kun's face had been s-so impossibly close. Uuu...

His refreshing, reassuring scent had filled my lungs. And his hands, firm, strong... yet holding me with such gentle care, as though handling delicate glassware.

"N-No, no, no! L-Like this, I am no better than a pervert!"

If he ever discovered I harbored such thoughts, Minori-kun would despise me. I-I had to pull myself together.

"And yet..."

It was completely useless.

Overcome with happiness, the corners of my lips kept lifting on their own. Even when I pressed both palms against my cheeks, my expression naturally softened again.

"Will my face ever return to normal...?"

Dinner had been an absolute trial. If I didn't maintain strict concentration, my face felt ready to dissolve into an embarrassing grin at any moment. It had been just as mentally exhausting as performing in my first public dance recital.

And to make matters worse, there was another pressing problem.

"I cannot sleep at all."

Yes. I was wide awake. Shockingly so. Normally, this was the hour I would be fast asleep.

"What should I do...?"

No matter how hard I tried to focus on other thoughts... Minori-kun's face kept surfacing in my mind, banishing all drowsiness.

"I wonder if... Minori-kun is still awake."

We had only just hung up earlier, but before I could talk myself out of it, I reached for my phone.

'Um. Are you still awake?'

Before I even realized it, the message was sent, and the "Read" receipt appeared almost instantaneously.

'What's up?'

A wave of relief washed over me, and my cheeks softened once more.

'I am having trouble falling asleep. If you do not mind, Minori-kun, may I call you once more?'

'Yeah, sure. I couldn't sleep either.'

Thank goodness. If I could just hear Minori-kun's voice, I was certain I would finally drift off.

However... talking with Minori-kun was simply too wonderful. Before we knew it, our conversation had carried on well past midnight.

Staying up late talking with someone was a first for me, and my heart fluttered with a thrilling, gentle excitement.

◆◇◆

"Pardon the intrusion, Minori-kun."

"Hey, welcome, Shinonome."

After offering a proper, polite bow, Shinonome stepped inside. When our eyes met, her lips relaxed into a soft, welcoming smile.

We washed our hands together and headed into the living room.

"...What should we do first? Shall we announce our results? Or would you prefer to have lunch first?"

"Let's do the rankings. Honestly, I've been restless about it since yesterday."

"Fufu, same here. It took me quite a long time to fall asleep last night as well."

Today was the official ranking reveal. A cocktail of nervous excitement churned in my chest.

──I wanted to share my results immediately. And I desperately wanted to know hers.

Sitting down on the living room sofa, Shinonome prompted me with her eyes to take the spot beside her. When I sat down, her sweet, delicate fragrance drifted into my nose.

Even though I had intentionally left a fist's width of space between us, Shinonome smoothly shifted her body to close the gap. Through the fabric of our clothes, her soft warmth pressed directly against my leg.

Seemingly unbothered by the contact, Shinonome rested her bag on her lap and pulled out a single folder. Her silky hair swayed with the movement, lightly brushing my shoulder.

Doing my best to ignore my racing pulse, I reached out and picked up the folder waiting on the coffee table. It was a clear file, but the paper inside was turned face down, hiding the contents.

"I-I am feeling just a little nervous."

"...Yeah, me too."

The tension in the air was palpable. Flipping the folders over would reveal our standing in an instant, and she was in the exact same boat.

Because of the close quarters, we weren't facing each other... but even so, the back of her pale hand rested softly against mine, and the frantic pounding of my heart echoed loudly in my ears.

She had to be... aware that our hands were touching. Fighting to suppress the dangerous feelings rearing their heads in my chest, I recalled what Shinonome had confessed the other night.

──I might be even more of a spoiled child than I thought.

Right. Shinonome was just naturally affectionate and spoiled. Touching like this was simply something she found comforting──

"Minori-kun? Is something the matter?"

Having closed my eyes in deep thought, I was jolted back to reality by Shinonome calling my name.

"No, it's noth──"

I opened my eyes, only for the words to die in my throat.

Reflected in those sapphire gemstones was my own face.

She was leaning in, peering intently into my eyes. Peering in from this close... her body heat was practically radiating across the microscopic gap between us.

"N-Nothing at all!"

I forcefully jerked my head away. Even with my gaze averted, every time I blinked, her flawless, striking features appeared behind my eyelids.

Even I knew I was being embarrassingly obvious, but I couldn't help it... At least she couldn't hear my heartbeat, which was a small mercy.

Or so I desperately hoped.

Tap. A gentle touch pressed against my chest.

"Sh-Shinonome?"

"...It is beating so quickly."

Shifting only my eyes, I looked down to see her hand hovering against my chest──no, her slender fingertips were firmly resting right over my heart.

Meeting my gaze with her blue eyes, she gradually flattened her palm against me. Her warmth seeped through the fabric and air──until only my shirt separated her palm from my pounding chest.

"It is just like that time."

"That time"... which time was she referring to?...More than one occasion immediately sprang to mind.

"The sound of your heartbeat... Hearing your heart beat, Souta-kun, brings me so much peace."

"I-It's beating crazy fast, though."

"That is precisely why."

Unable to decipher the deeper meaning behind her words, I froze in utter confusion. The overwhelming embarrassment had effectively paralyzed my brain.

She let out a quiet chuckle, and with her free hand, swept her front hair behind her shoulder.

"It is the same as mine. Souta-kun."

──The same.

I wasn't dense enough to miss what that implied. And that realization kicked my racing heart into an even higher gear.

"..."

Shinonome seemed to genuinely enjoy listening to my frantic pulse──before suddenly gasping in realization.

"I-I am so sorry! F-For touching you without permission!"

She yanked her hand back in a panic. The soothing warmth that had been radiating through my shirt began to fade──

"...I don't really mind, you know."

The words slipped out before I could stop them. My face felt completely on fire.

"I-Is it truly all right?"

"Yeah. B-But let's do the ranking reveal first, okay?"

If we stayed like this, we were going to completely forget the purpose of today. Which... might not have been the worst thing, but the atmosphere felt entirely under her control.

"Understood. Then please allow me to do so later."

Relieved by her compliance, I actively forced myself to ignore the second half of her sentence. Could I actually survive that? No, I had to.

"Alright... let's reveal them on the count of three."

"Yes, understood."

Locking eyes, we nodded and synchronized our voices.

One, two, three!

The rankings printed on our sheets were──

1st / out of 280 students

1st / out of 320 students

──Both of us stared in absolute, wide-eyed shock.

"...First place... First place! Minori-kun, you took first place!"

"Yeah! And you got first place too, Shinonome!"

"That is incredible! You are truly amazing, Minori-kun!"

Shinonome's cheeks flushed with sheer excitement, and she reached out to squeeze my hands tightly. While the contact made my heart flutter, seeing her celebrate my success even more than her own filled me with pure joy.

Looking down at the grade breakdown beneath the ranking, the score in her English column proudly read: [100]. That brought an even wider grin to my face.

"You conquered your weakest subject, didn't you?"

"It is entirely thanks to you, Minori-kun. I do not mean that as flattery in the slightest."

"I should be thanking you, Shinonome. This is all thanks to your tutoring."

"You are very welcome. But your own hard work played the greatest part, Minori-kun."

She gave my hands another firm, joyful squeeze. Her face beamed with unadulterated happiness.

"...Minori-kun."

"Hm? What is it?"

I started to look back down at the papers, but her hesitant voice pulled me back.

"Apart from our agreement regarding rewards... there is a favor, or rather... something I would love to do."

"You're being unusually hesitant. Just tell me."

Her expression turned serious, though a lovely shade of pink dusted her porcelain cheeks.

Gazing straight into my eyes──

"Souta-kun."

My breath caught in my throat.

A voice as soft and clear as a silver bell──

"Souta-kun."

Called my name once more.

"...That is what I wish to call you. In return, if you would call me 'Nagi' instead of 'Shinonome'... it would make me so very happy."

I was amazed my brain managed to process the words at all. That was how devastatingly──overwhelming the impact was.

Somehow, I forced my numb lips to move. It was slow and clumsy, surely making her anxious.

"Nagi."

"...! Yes!"

An energetic, radiant reply burst from her lips, her entire face blossoming into a brilliant smile.

"Fufu, Souta-kun. I finally said it."

Once again, she squeezed my hands tightly. Shinonome──no, Nagi, happily repeated my name over and over again.

"Souta-kun."

"...Yeah?"

"You did wonderfully, Souta-kun."

Woven into her joyful tone was an ocean of gentleness and warmth.

"Yeah. You did an incredible job too, Nagi."

When I squeezed her hands in return, her smile deepened into something truly breathtaking.

◆◆◆

After finishing lunch, before I realized it, I had drifted off to sleep. Fortunately, not much time had passed.

Glancing to my side, I found her leaning comfortably against me.

"Good morning, Souta-kun."

"Ghk──Ah, yeah. Good morning, Nagi."

I knew it was real, but the realization that our earlier exchange wasn't a dream struck me afresh.

──Calling each other by our first names. It felt slightly embarrassing, but far more than that, it filled me with happiness.

We spent a quiet, relaxing moment together... until I remembered an important topic.

"N-Nagi."

"Yes, it's Nagi."

Trying to say her name naturally still felt clumsy, and I stumbled over the syllables. But letting embarrassment stall the conversation wouldn't do. Closing my eyes once to steady my pulse, I continued.

"Eiji and the others... my best friend and his girlfriend asked if you and I could tutor them sometime. There's still plenty of time before finals, but it's partly for advance prep."

"...Those are the two from that day, correct?"

She asked somewhat timidly. Giving her a reassuring nod, I replied:

"Yeah, the ones from the rainy day when you came to meet me."

"Yes. If I recall, their names were Makisaka-san and Nishizawa-san."

"That's them....Of course, if you're uncomfortable with it, please don't hesitate to say no. What do you think?"

Nagi rested a finger against her chin, contemplating the idea seriously. Then, lifting her blue eyes, she met my gaze.

"I do not mind at all. However, I also... have a friend who mentioned wanting to meet you, S-Souta-kun."

When it came to Nagi's friends, only one person came to mind.

"...Really?"

"Yes. She mentioned wanting to meet you eventually. It seems like a wonderful opportunity, so what do you think?"

"I'll have to double-check with Eiji and Nishizawa just in case, but I'm completely fine with it."

If it was Nagi's friend, it had to be her. I had heard plenty about her, and I genuinely wanted to meet her at least once.

"...And one more thing. Knowing it is presumptuous, there is a favor I would like to ask."

"What is it? Ask me anything."

At my prompt, Nagi smiled with immense, radiant joy.

"I am quite shy around new people... so I would be so happy if you stayed right by my side the entire time, Souta-kun."

The absolute, unwavering trust she placed in me resonated clearly through her words. Overcome with warmth, my own face broke into a broad smile.

"Yeah, of course. I'll be right there."

◆◆◆

The day of the study group. We were waiting at the station for the others to arrive.

"Oh, you're already here! Yo─!"

A familiar voice called out. Together with Nagi, I turned toward the sound.

"You guys are crazy early! Thought we'd beat you here for sure."

"You two are early too. It's still ten minutes before the meet-up time."

Eiji Makisaka and his girlfriend, Kirika Nishizawa, walked up to us.

Then, Eiji and Nishizawa shifted their attention from me to Nagi.

"This will be our second time meeting. Makisaka-san, Nishizawa-san."

"L-Long time no see! Thanks for taking care of our Souta!"

"Taking care of him!"

"What kind of parental act is that?"

Snap! The two of them bowed in synchronized, theatrical precision. Exasperation bled into my voice.

Before I realized it, Nagi had taken a subtle half-step closer to me....Almost as if staking her territory against Eiji and Kirika.

Her sweet scent drifted over, the back of her hand lightly grazing mine. That was how close she was standing.

Glancing sideways at Nagi, she noticed my gaze and turned to meet my eyes.

Seemingly oblivious to why I was staring, she offered me a dazzling, innocent smile.

...Please stop doing that out of nowhere. Does she not realize how breathtaking her face is? Being hit with a smile like that at point-blank range was hazardous to my health.

"Hey. I look up for one second and they're already flirting. What are we supposed to do here?"

"I dunno. Should we counter by flirting right back?"

Their whispered banter pulled me back to reality. Eiji and Nishizawa were huddling together... though their "whispers" were completely audible.

"Seriously, what was that just now? Even we've never stared into each other's eyes like that, have we?"

"Right? What is this, a textbook rom-com? Who does that in public?"

"I can hear every single word you're saying."

Eiji and Nishizawa's shoulders flinched in unison.

Good grief... Nagi's face had turned a furious shade of crimson. Even so, she made no move to step away from me. Her shyness around new people had clearly won out over her embarrassment.

"A-Anyway! Putting that aside, Shinonome-chan's friend is joining us too, right?"

"Ah, yes. Her name is Hikaru Hayama-san. She is a very bright and cheerful person."

Right on cue, a distinctly lively figure came walking over from the station entrance.

"...Is that her?"

Nagi looked over and let out a small gasp. A girl with a bright blonde ponytail caught sight of Nagi and waved enthusiastically.

"Yes! That is Hayama-san!"

A vibrant girl with blonde hair tied back in a high ponytail. A completely different flavor of energy compared to Nishizawa. I had heard about her, but... she definitely had a strong gyaru vibe. Not in a bad way at all.

She had an open, easygoing aura. There wasn't an ounce of malice or unpleasantness around her. She truly was Nagi's friend.

"Looks like I'm the last to arrive! Sorry, sorry!"

"No, not at all. You are still well ahead of schedule. Let me introduce everyone."

With that, Nagi stepped away from my side for a moment to stand beside her friend.

"This is Hikaru Hayama-san. A dear friend who attends the same school as me."

"I'm Hikaru Hayama! Call me Hayama, Hikaru, whatever floats your boat! My hobbies are all over the place. Oh, and despite how I look, my lips are sealed shut! If you ever need someone to vent to, I'm your girl."

"Yes. Hayama-san listens with great sincerity. I am often indebted to her advice."

Nodding in appreciation, the rest of us introduced ourselves as well.

Then, Hayama took a step closer to me.

"Heeh... So you're Minori-kun. I've heard plenty about you."

"A-Ah, yeah?"

She shamelessly scanned me from head to toe. The intense appraisal felt ticklish, sending a slight shiver through me.

"Not bad at all."

"H-Hayama-san?! N-No!"

Nagi instantly jumped between us, completely blocking Hayama's view of me.

"E-Even if it is you, Hayama-san! S-Souta-kun is strictly off-limits!"

Nagi glared at Hayama... looking for all the world like a kitten fiercely guarding its territory. Rather than intimidating, why did she just look unbearably adorable? Compared to her aloof "Ice Princess" persona, there was zero menace here.

Hayama looked at Nagi and nodded with immense, teasing satisfaction.

"Yeah, yeah, I know, I know! Shinonome-chan talks about you non-stop, so I just wanted to see how handsome you really were. Don't worry, I won't steal him."

Nagi froze on the spot at Hayama's words. And naturally, a follow-up attack came flying in from the side.

"Damn, that possessiveness... Hey, Kirika, do you ever get jealous like that over me?"

"Eh? You want me to?"

"Once in a while, maybe?"

"Heeh... Well, maybe if the stars align. Don't hold your breath, though."

Listening to their banter from behind, the fiery blush on Nagi's cheeks spread all the way to the tips of her ears.

"You guys are teasing Nagi way too much. Don't come crying to me if she ends up hating you."

Watching Nagi get teased was... well, secretly kind of entertaining, but I decided to step in and save her.

"Anyway, everyone's here, so let's get moving. Follow me."

Realizing that standing around here was going to attract unwanted attention, I started walking. Nagi snapped out of her daze and immediately fell into step right beside me.

Ignoring the smug, knowing grins Eiji and the others were shooting at my back, we made our way to my apartment.

◆◆◆

"Ooh─! I figured a guy living alone would be a total slob, but your place is super neat! Good job!"

The moment we stepped inside, Hayama was the first to let out a voice of genuine admiration.

"The cleaning part is, yeah. Nagi, haven't you told them?"

I asked with a wry smile, but Nagi immediately shook her head.

"It concerns a friend's personal privacy, after all. I would never share such details without permission."

"...I see."

Now that she mentioned it, Nagi certainly wasn't the type to gossip. In that case, I should probably explain it myself.

"I don't know how to cook....Or rather, I just gave up on it. It never lasted."

Nagi's blue eyes locked onto mine. She was silently asking if she could take over the explanation. That would definitely be faster. I nodded, handing the floor to her.

"Relying entirely on eating out and convenience store food leads to poor nutrition. That is why I come over every Saturday to cook meals and prepare bento for the week."

Hayama's eyes went wide at Nagi's matter-of-fact declaration.

"...Wait, what? Seriously? This is news to me!"

"It is entirely true. The reason is exactly as I just stated."

Nagi nodded with absolute, straight-faced conviction. Hayama looked back and forth between Nagi and me──her expression a perfect split between shock and exasperation.

"And you're telling me you two aren't dating?!"

"W-We are not!"

"Girl, you're literally a visiting wife!"

"A-A visiting... wife?!"

Nagi's porcelain cheeks flushed a brilliant, burning crimson. Caught up in her embarrassment, my own face grew hot... but realizing I had to defuse the situation, I stepped up beside Nagi.

"Nagi is just really kind. She hates the idea of me ruining my health. Besides, if I get sick, I won't be able to fulfill the promise I made to her. I can't share the details, but that's what this is about. Right, Na... gi?"

I thought I had delivered a pretty solid defense. Thinking that, I looked over at Nagi... only to find her trembling slightly, puffing out her cheeks in a distinct pout.

Her entire posture screamed: I am pouting!

"...Nagi?"

"I feel just a tiny, tiny bit conflicted."

Saying so, Nagi took a deliberate step closer to me. The already narrow gap vanished completely, pressing us flush against each other.

She stared up at me with those deep blue eyes.

Flustered, I instinctively averted my gaze.

Nagi let out a soft sigh... not of exasperation, but one laced with a subtle trace of joy.

"Well, let us leave it at that for now. We are studying in the living room, correct? Let us go."

"A-Ah, yeah."

Nagi led the way into the living room. I followed right behind her... but I could practically feel three pairs of razor-sharp eyes boring holes into my back.

◆◆◆

"For this part, you see... rather than using that formula, it works the exact same way as the method shown on this previous page."

"Ah, I get it now! That's where that connects! Thanks a bunch, Nagirin!"

"Not at all, you are very welcome."

We had settled into our study session. With plenty of time before finals, it was mostly advance preparation, but getting ahead never hurt.

After about two hours of studying, Nagi had gradually warmed up to the other two. In particular, she was conversing naturally with Nishizawa. Nishizawa had already taken to calling Nagi "Nagirin" and Hayama "Hikarun."

Apparently, Nishizawa gave special nicknames to people she wanted to be close friends with. Since she and Eiji were childhood friends, she didn't use one for him, though. Her social skills were truly on another level.

As lunchtime rolled around, Nagi stood up.

"Now then. It is about time for lunch, so I will go prepare our meal. I was planning on making nikujaga, if that is all right with everyone?"

"...Wait, really? Nagirin, you're cooking for us?!"

Nishizawa and the others gasped in surprise. Since this had been the plan from the beginning, I wasn't surprised at all.

"Yes. I considered ordering delivery, but since we have this wonderful opportunity."

"Yay! Thank you so much─!"

"Sweet! I'm super hyped for this!"

Getting to eat a homemade meal cooked by a classmate was a rare treat. Shifting gears from studying, Nishizawa and the others grew visibly excited.

"I'll go give Nagi a hand in the kitchen. You three hang out here."

"Okey-dokey!"

Leaving them in the living room, I followed Nagi into the kitchen.

Inside, Nagi was already tying my apron around her waist. She looked back at me with an amused, slightly mischievous smile.

"I saw the recipe note left in the kitchen before. So today, I will be making nikujaga in the style of your family home, Souta-kun... so please rest assured, okay?"

My eyes went wide.

──She had read me like an open book.

The fact that Nagi's cooking was going to be served to someone other than me had, in truth... cast a tiny, selfish shadow of possessiveness over my heart.

"My... The food I cook will only ever be for my family, and for you, Souta-kun."

──That meant...

The implication crossing my mind was far too heavy to be mere coincidence. But it was also undeniable that part of me desperately wished it were true.

Closing my eyes for a few seconds, I forced my racing heart to calm down. Alright, I thought, opening them again.

Nagi was standing right in front of me. Her eyes were closed, her long, delicate eyelashes clearly visible. The interval between my heartbeats, which was supposed to be slowing down, instantly spiked again.

"...Mm. Please."

With that, Nagi dipped her head slightly... offering it up toward me.

"R-Right now?"

"I felt that if I missed this chance, I wouldn't be able to receive it today. Please."

A sliding fusuma door separated the kitchen from the living room, blocking their view....Though you could just as easily say only a single thin door stood between us.

Even though we were whispering, speaking at a normal volume would easily carry to the other side.

I really shouldn't, my brain argued. And yet, before I knew it, my hand had already risen.

Telling myself that as long as they couldn't see, it was fine.

I gently placed my hand atop her silky hair.

"...Fufu."

As I stroked her head softly, a crystal-clear laugh slipped from her lips.

A sweet scent drifted around us. Nagi gently rested her hand over my chest....Ever since that day on the train, Nagi had made a habit of placing her hand there. Just as before, having my frantic heartbeat laid bare was terribly embarrassing... but seeing how radiantly happy it made her, I could never bring myself to refuse.

Her smooth, thread-like hair never caught against my fingers. Watching her face melt into pure bliss brought a wave of warmth to my chest. It made me want to keep stroking her head forever.

──And in the very next second.

"Hey, Shinonome-chan! Quick question about──"

Hayama slid the fusuma open and poked her head into the kitchen.

Neither Nagi nor I had time to react. We completely froze.

The air in the room ground to a halt, trapping us in the illusion that time itself had stopped.

"..."

Not just Nagi and me, but Hayama was frozen solid as well. A deafening silence descended over the kitchen.

"Hikarun, what's taking so long─?"

Kirika's distant voice shattered the freeze, setting time back in motion.

I yanked my hand back in a panic, but Nagi made no move to pull her hand from my chest.

Looking down at Nagi... she was gazing up at me with wide, moist eyes.

Her gaze practically screamed: Aren't you going to continue?

When I asked her with my eyes, Are you serious right now?, she gave a firm, determined nod.

Returning my hand to her head, Nagi happily narrowed her eyes in bliss.

"Wait, you're keeping at it?!"

Hayama nearly tripped over her own feet in sheer disbelief.

"...? Hikarun?"

"Ah, nope, nothing! Give me a second!"

Hayama tossed the excuse over her shoulder to Nishizawa and promptly shut the sliding door.

Instead of retreating to the living room, she stepped fully into the kitchen.

"So? Care to explain what on earth is going on here?"

"Well, this is... how should I put it..."

Looking at Nagi, she gave me a small nod and finally pulled her hand away from my chest.

However, the moment I tried to lower my hand from her head, she looked up at me with an undeniably lonely pout.

...I stood zero chance. Resuming the gentle headpats, Nagi turned to face Hayama while staying firmly under my hand.

"I would greatly appreciate it if you could keep what you just saw, and this conversation, strictly confidential."

"Yeah, yeah, totally get it. My lips are sealed."

Seeing Hayama nod earnestly, Nagi began her explanation.

"This is something I only realized after meeting Souta-kun, but... the truth is, I am quite a spoiled child."

"...I see?"

Contrary to her agreeable tone, Hayama looked utterly unconvinced. She was clearly just playing along for now.

"And so. Through various circumstances, having Souta-kun pat my head became something I... really l-liked. So whenever we find ourselves alone, I began asking him for it."

"...You two aren't alone right now, though."

"I-If this moment passes, today's quota will be lost. I thought that would be a terrible waste."

With her face burning bright red, Nagi answered with total seriousness. My hand paused involuntarily. Wondering why I stopped, her deep blue eyes looked up to meet mine.

"Souta-kun? What is the matter?"

"...Honestly, if you want it, Nagi, you can ask for as many headpats as you like in a day."

"R-Really?!"

The words burst from Nagi's lips before she could stop herself. Her voice was loud enough that Eiji and Kirika might have heard... but thankfully, neither of them came checking.

"Ah, I-I am so sorry! For raising my voice..."

"No, it's fine."

Casually resuming the headpats, the anxious look on her face melted away.

"A-And... is it truly all right?"

"Hm? Yeah, of course. There was never a limit on it to begin with."

Hearing about a "daily quota" was news to me in the first place. It wasn't any trouble at all. It was dangerously bad for my heart, but not in an unpleasant way.

Nagi's face lit up with pure joy. But a second later, a conflicted frown crossed her brows.

"N-No, but... if there are no limits, I feel as though I might ask for it ten times a day..."

"I-I see."

Ten times a day was definitely a lot. Though I probably wouldn't have the heart to say no.

"I didn't dislike patting your head either, Nagi... I mean, I actually like doing it, but. Guess it can't be helped."

The moment I said that, Nagi's head snapped up.

"I-In that case! Twice a day... if it is up to twice a day, I would love to ask for it!"

Reading the desperate panic in her eyes, I couldn't help but chuckle.

"Deal. And if you ever want to increase it, just let me know, alright?"

"Yes!"

As I gently stroked the happily smiling Nagi, her expression softened into pure, unadulterated bliss.

"Um, hello? Did you guys completely forget I'm standing right here?"

"...Ah."

At Hayama popping her head in from the side with an exasperated grin, Nagi and I looked at each other and laughed.

◆◆◆

"Whoa, seriously, this is insane!"

"Damn. This is ridiculously good."

"Such a warm, comforting flavor... Yeah, it's super delicious!"

Nagi's nikujaga was an absolute hit. To me, of course, it was incredible as well, carrying a deeply nostalgic, familiar taste.

"Fufu, I am so glad. It was nikujaga made in the style of Souta-kun's family home."

At her casual explanation, Eiji and Nishizawa choked on their food simultaneously.

"Ghk... cough, hack! S-Souta's family style?!"

"...Even I haven't been taught the home-cooked flavors of Eiji's house yet!"

"The recipe note was left in the kitchen, so I simply followed it."

At her explanation, the three of them, including Hayama, nodded in collective understanding.

As we continued enjoying the meal, savoring every bite, Nagi spoke up as if remembering something important.

"That reminds me. I have a favor to ask of everyone... or rather, there is an event I would love for you to attend, if you are willing."

"An event you want us to come to?"

"Yes! Pardon me while we are in the middle of eating."

Saying so, Nagi reached for her school bag. From inside, she retrieved a printed pamphlet and four slender tickets.

The large sheet of paper appeared to be an event flyer.

"Actually, in early November, there is a public recital for the traditional Japanese dance school I attend. Of course, I will be performing as well. Because of that, performers were provided tickets to invite family and close friends. If you are free, would you like to come?"

"I'm going. If you're performing, Nagi."

The answer left my mouth purely on reflex.

Instantly, the nervous tension on Nagi's face dissolved into immense relief. Right on cue, Eiji and the others chimed in as well.

"Oh, sweet! I actually love that kind of stuff. Count me in."

"Come to think of it, Eiji's always had a thing for traditional performing arts and theater, didn't you? Then I'm definitely going too!"

"Guess I'm tagging along as well! Shinonome-chan's performing, after all."

I had no idea Eiji had an interest in traditional arts. Given Nishizawa's confirmation, it seemed to be genuine.

"Thank you all so very much! It will take place shortly before finals, but please come and enjoy the performance!"

Hearing their enthusiastic responses, Nagi beamed with radiant joy.

◆◆◆

Time flew by, and November arrived.

Finally, the day after tomorrow was the traditional Japanese dance recital.

To be precise, it was a two-day event spanning Saturday and Sunday. With a large number of performers, Nagi's turn was scheduled for Sunday... as the grand finale of the entire recital.

Tomorrow, on Saturday, Nagi had to attend and watch alongside her family. That was why she had come over to my apartment today, on Friday. As an aside, her tea ceremony and flower arrangement lessons were both on break this week.

"You're nervous, aren't you?"

Over the past week, Nagi's expression had seemed unusually tense. And understandably so. Even I got nervous just giving a simple presentation in class. A major recital took place in front of hundreds, if not thousands of spectators. On top of that, carrying the responsibility of the grand finale meant the pressure had to be unfathomable.

In fact, even now, Nagi was sitting rigidly on the sofa, her shoulders stiff. Offering a strained smile at my question, she nodded.

"Yes. Embarrassingly enough, I am quite nervous."

"There's nothing embarrassing about that. Being nervous is just proof of how much effort you've poured into preparing for this."

Worrying whether she could perform as practiced. Worrying whether her hard work would bear fruit. Those anxieties only existed because she had dedicated herself entirely to her craft.

"Thank you. Hearing you say that truly brings me comfort."

Nagi let out a long, slow breath. She was clearly struggling to settle her nerves.

Was there anything I could do for her?

Crossing my arms in thought, an idea came to mind.

"...Hey, Nagi."

"...? Yes, what is it?"

"I know how hard you've been working. Even in the moments I couldn't see, you've been giving it everything you've got."

Nagi tilted her head with a curious look. Feeling like beating around the bush would only drag things out... I took a deep breath.

"Before the big day, wouldn't you like a special reward?"

"...! I-Is that truly all right?"

"I want to do it for you. If it's too much, you can always say no."

Nagi shook her head vigorously, turning a gaze full of intense, sparkling resolve toward me.

"If it is something from you, Souta-kun, anything would make me overjoyed."

She wasn't just being polite; she meant it with every fiber of her being, which made my own heart flutter with happiness.

"Alright. Follow me for a second."

"Y-Yes!"

The place I led Nagi to... was my bedroom.

"Souta-kun's bedroom... This is the first time I have stepped inside."

"We've always hung out in the living room, after all."

"Yes. It smells just like you, Souta-kun."

Nagi looked around the room with wide-eyed curiosity, making me feel a little bashful.

Sitting down on the edge of the bed in the corner, I patted the space beside me. Nagi approached with an expression of heightened tension──

"My phrasing was a bit lacking earlier. I'm not going to do anything weird, so don't worry."

"Is... that so?"

Looking relieved──she sat down beside me.

──It had to be my imagination.

The fact that she looked just a tiny bit disappointed──was definitely just my imagination.

Letting out a breath, I exhaled all distracting, worldly thoughts.

"Nagi. Lie down right here."

"──Eh?"

Ignoring my violently hammering heart, I patted my own lap. She stared at me with a completely blank, stunned expression.

"If you don't want to, you don't have to."

"I do not dislike it!"

Cutting off my retreat, Nagi leaned sideways... and gently collapsed her head onto my lap.

"...I am happy. So very happy."

Her quiet, bell-clear voice resonated softly against my eardrums. Without replying in words, I began to stroke her silky hair.

"It feels wonderful."

"I'm glad. There's no time limit today, so get all the headpats you want."

A radiant smile spread across Nagi's lips as she offered a polite, heartfelt "Thank you very much."

Replying with a quiet "You're welcome," I continued stroking her hair. After a while, I noticed her eyes, narrowed in bliss, were looking up directly into mine.

"...I know this is terribly greedy of me. But may I be just a little more spoiled?"

"You're not greedy at all. Of course you can."

Nagi rarely asked for anything for herself. Letting her indulge in a little selfishness was totally fine.

However──she was far bolder than I could have ever anticipated.

With a soft rustle, Nagi turned her body toward me and buried her face directly into my stomach.

My entire body froze solid. Rigid from head to toe.

Looking up at the ceiling, I let out a long, ragged breath. Carefully, I placed my hand back onto her head... resting it against the back of her head facing away from me.

"Ehehe."

Along with a soft, muffled giggle, she pressed her face even deeper into me.

"It smells like you, Souta-kun. It brings me so much peace. I love this scent."

"...I see."

It was embarrassing. Beyond embarrassing, honestly. But seeing how happy it made Nagi, I kept gently stroking her hair.

After continuing for a while, I felt Nagi's breathing settle into a slow, steady rhythm. Looking down, I could see her deep blue eyes fluttering behind heavy eyelids.

"We've still got plenty of time today. You should sleep while you can."

"...Yes, you are right....Um, Souta-kun."

"Yeah?"

Nagi lifted a hand from my waist and rested it near her chest.

"I want you to hold my hand."

Thump. My racing heart kicked into overdrive.

"Will that help you sleep better?"

"Yeees... p-please."

"Alright."

Gently bringing my hand down to hers, her slender fingers tightly curled around mine.

"It is so warm."

"Yeah. It is."

Watching Nagi's face melt into an utterly defenseless, blissful smile, my own expression dissolved into warmth. I watched quietly as her eyelids finally fluttered shut.

"Good night, Souta-kun."

"Yeah. Good night, Nagi."

With those final words, Nagi truly drifted off to sleep. Even in slumber, she refused to loosen her grip on my hand.

Looking at her like this, she looked like an innocent child. A cold title like the "Ice Princess" didn't suit her in the slightest.

Brushing a stray lock of white hair behind her ear, she let out a ticklish, sleepy murmur.

"...You really are adorable."

The words escaped my lips before I could stop them. I clamped my mouth shut immediately, but Nagi was already sound asleep.

Relieved, I used my free hand to gently stroke her hair. Her relaxed expression remained peaceful; she looked completely at ease.

──Did she hold back around her family, I wondered?

Because she was adopted... or was she simply the type of person who naturally kept her guard up, even around relatives? Only she knew the answer, but the thought lingered in my mind.

Being unable to act spoiled around family. That was completely foreign territory to me. I had been pampered by my parents even when I resisted it, but looking back now, I realized my parents were just looking out for me because I had no friends.

Looking down, Nagi was sleeping deeply and peacefully.

The nervous tension had taken a toll, but she was probably physically exhausted as well. She had been practicing her traditional dance non-stop up until yesterday.

Come to think of it, the same went for our late-night phone calls. Normally, Nagi would get sleepy and we'd talk until she dozed off, but lately, she had been keeping an eye on the clock and hanging up deliberately. She might have been struggling to sleep after that.

"At least rest peacefully while you're here."

Watching Nagi murmur unintelligibly in her sleep, a tender smile crossed my face.

Looking at her peaceful form, a sudden thought struck me.

Could I even survive without Nagi anymore...?

Meals were the most obvious example. Lately, it was homemade bento on weekdays, and on weekends, Nagi cooked for me or left pre-made dishes. In truth, that had become my greatest daily joy.

And academically. Whenever I hit a wall, she explained everything with absolute patience and clarity.

Of course, it went far beyond just those two things. Emotionally, she had become an irreplaceable pillar of support.

Whenever Nagi was by my side, an incredible sense of peace washed over me. Nowadays, being alone felt just a little bit lonely.

I found myself terrified of ever returning to the empty daily life I had before.

──No, stop thinking about this. Even as I warned myself, my emotions completely ignored the command.

──The desperate urge never to be separated from her swelled uncontrollably. And eventually... the realization that I loved her, that I cherished her with all my heart....It had grown so massive that I could never look Eiji in the eye and say "I don't know" ever again.

My face burned with scorching heat.

This was a feeling I was supposed to keep locked away. That was why I had been averting my eyes for so long.

Remember why Nagi placed her trust in me... why she took a leap of faith on me. It was because she believed in me, wasn't it?

That was why I could never let these feelings show. Even if... Nagi eventually found someone else.

Suddenly, the question Eiji had asked me echoed through my mind.

──Ten years from now... who do you want standing beside the "Ice Princess," Nagi Shinonome?

An icy shiver crawled up my spine.

If someone other than me was standing beside Nagi ten years from now──

"──I can't stand that."

The murmur slipped out before I realized it, and I bit my lip hard. That was how overwhelmingly powerful my feelings had become.

I had to keep this hidden at all costs──

"...Souta-kun? Did something happen?"

Releasing my hand from my chest, I moved only my eyes to look down. Meeting her drowsy, blinking gaze, I forced a gentle smile.

"...It's nothing. Don't worry about it."

I returned my hand to her head. The sleepy Nagi closed her eyes once more and drifted back into slumber.

Watching over her, I let out a long... very long breath.

That was close. Thank god she didn't realize.

Nagi's fear of men was improving significantly. But what if I confessed these feelings to her right now?

...I didn't want to be hated.

Right now, I knew Nagi didn't dislike me. But did she view me... romantically? I had no idea.

As I had noticed before, Nagi was naturally affectionate....Affectionate enough to sleep defenselessly on my lap like this.

But wasn't that purely because she trusted me as her friend? If I told her I "loved" her... wouldn't that precious trust shatter into pieces?

It was no use. My thoughts were spinning in circles. The more I analyzed it, the less I understood.

Looking down, my eyes suddenly met a clear blue gaze staring right up at me. My shoulders jerked in surprise.

"Souta-kun?"

"N-Nagi. Are you awake? You can keep sleeping, you know."

Despite my words, Nagi slowly shook her head.

"I tried to go back to sleep, but you seemed so lost in thought, Souta-kun, that I woke up. Is something troubling you?"

"...No, really, it's nothing. Don't worry about it."

Naturally, this was the one thing I could never consult Nagi about. It was a dilemma I had to shoulder entirely on my own.

And yet, if I kept dwelling on it, I was going to lose my mind.

Gently stroking Nagi's hair, I squeezed her hand. Nagi beamed softly and squeezed back.

If this feeling inside me──ever grew too massive to suppress.

What on earth──was I going to do?

◆◆◆

"Whoa, look at this crowd! There are so many ridiculously high-class people here."

"Uwaah... Look at all those people in insanely expensive suits and gorgeous kimonos. Come to think of it, Shinonome-chan's family is crazy wealthy, right?"

"They're famous around these parts. Her dad's a massive corporate executive with serious political influence, or so I hear."

Finally, Sunday arrived──the day of Nagi's traditional Japanese dance recital.

The auditorium lobby was packed with spectators. The crowd gave off a distinctly wealthy, aristocratic aura, but that made sense. Practicing traditional dance required authentic kimonos, which were notoriously expensive. For a prestigious recital of this scale, only the finest attire would suffice.

Fortunately, though, most students like us were wearing standard school uniforms rather than formal wear, so we didn't stand out too awkwardly.

"It's a formal venue, so let's keep our behavior in check. Especially the couple over there."

"I know, I know, don't sweat it. Back in the day, they used to call me 'Ei-chan of the Traditional Arts,' you know!"

"Right, Eiji used to get totally mesmerized by classical theater. If Eiji behaves, then I will too... I mean, I'm not so ill-mannered as to cause a scene in a place like this, so relax. Though I guess I don't have much room to talk!"

...Yeah, they'd be fine. Eiji might be loud and energetic, but he knew how to read a room.

"Sorry, you two. I might be a little too on edge."

"Don't apologize, man! It's our own fault for having a track record!"

Just as Eiji tried to let out his usual booming laugh, Nishizawa jabbed an elbow into his ribs, physically silencing him. From the looks of it, they would keep each other in line. Beside them, Hayama was chuckling softly.

"I'm a master at reading the atmosphere, so don't worry about me."

"That's quite the self-appraisal. Well, Nagi said the same thing, so I'm sure it's true."

She was someone Nagi genuinely wanted to be friends with. Besides, having heard all about her from Nagi, I knew she was a remarkably kind, sensible person.

"Alright, let's head inside."

Entering the main hall with Eiji and the others, we presented our tickets at reception. Everything went smoothly, and we stepped into the grand auditorium. The seats were reserved... and a nervous sweat broke out across my palms.

Scanning the designated seating area from the entrance, Hayama offered a sympathetic, wry smile.

"Shinonome-chan told me earlier, but her family is sitting in a completely separate... ultra-VIP box section, apparently. She said they probably wouldn't know where our seats are either, though she did mention inviting some friends."

"I see."

With a crowd this massive, spotting each other would be practically impossible anyway.

While I felt a wave of relief at that... part of me had secretly hoped to catch a glimpse of Nagi's parents, leaving me feeling just a tiny bit disappointed.

From there, keeping chatter to a minimum, we found our assigned row and sat down. Located just forward of the center, the seats offered a pristine, unobstructed view of the stage. They were clearly premium seats reserved for personal guests.

Our seating order from left to right was Nishizawa, Eiji, me, and Hayama. Watching Eiji excitedly fidget in his seat, I quietly waited for the curtain to rise.

After a short wait, the opening announcements began to chime over the speakers. Standard theater etiquette was read, followed by the program titles and performer introductions. Glancing down at the brochure──my eyes widened at the text printed at the very bottom.

[Concluding today's recital will be a special performance by Nagi Shinonome-sama, the sole apprentice to Living National Treasure, Tsuru Ichitake-sama.]

Eiji and I locked eyes. Eiji silently asked with his gaze, Did you know about this?, to which I shook my head in total shock.

Turning to Hayama, she shook her head as well, mouthing, I had no idea.

Tsuru Ichitake. It was a name I recognized.

In preparation for watching the recital today, I had looked up the basic history and terminology of traditional Japanese dance. Even in my brief research, I distinctly remembered seeing that name at the top of the "Living National Treasures" registry.

A Living National Treasure. I had no idea she studied under such a legendary figure. And to be the sole apprentice...

With the performance about to begin, we settled back into our seats and focused. My anticipation skyrocketed to an entirely new level.

The introductions concluded──and the heavy velvet curtain rose.

The first piece began alongside the sharp pluck of a shamisen and the resonant boom of taiko drums.

Traditional Japanese dance encompassed a vast variety of styles. According to Nagi, today's program focused on classical, narrative-driven traditional dances.

Accompanied by shamisen, percussion, and traditional flutes, the dancers moved with hypnotic elegance.

This was a recital featuring the sole student of a Living National Treasure. Even with my limited knowledge of the art──no, this transcended amateur comprehension entirely.

Every single gesture of the performers was breathtakingly delicate, drawing me into the stage before I even realized it. Forgetting to breathe, I had to force myself to inhale deeply. Reluctant to blink, my eyes began to dry out, forcing me to tightly squeeze them shut during transitions. That was how utterly spellbound we were.

Depending on the program, the dancers' movements represented specific real-world actions. It was more accurate to describe it as storytelling through physical motion.

I was glad I had researched the basics. While there were plenty of movements I couldn't fully decipher, I could recognize when a gesture portrayed a scene from daily life. Though the sheer caliber of the performers was so extraordinary, perhaps I would have understood it even without prior research.

When the opening piece concluded... the stage lights faded to black.

"..."

An indescribable storm of emotions churned in my chest. I tried to exhale the awe along with my breath, but the feeling was too vast to release. Without giving us a moment to recover, the next piece began.

The subsequent performances were equally magnificent.

We were completely pulled into their world. It was incomparable to watching a recording on a screen.

It was the difference between listening to a song on headphones and experiencing a live orchestra in an acoustic hall.

The dancing, the singing, the music──each element carried immense power on its own. Woven together, they constructed an entire living, breathing universe upon the stage.

The auditorium was held completely captive by the performers.

It felt like a waking dream. Just when I thought there was plenty of time left in the program, hours vanished in the blink of an eye. Whenever a piece ended, I lingered in a daze, savoring the artistic feast... only for the next masterpiece to begin moments later. A dream ended, only for another to start. I found myself wishing it would never end──

[And now, we present our final program of the evening.]

The sudden announcement startled me. Glancing at my watch, I was doubly shocked. Several hours had passed in what felt like minutes. And yet, looking back, we had witnessed an incredible number of performances.

Simultaneously, a violent wave of goosebumps broke out across my entire body.

──This was it. The finale was Nagi's turn.

Her nervous tension from earlier made complete sense now....To take the stage as the grand finale after a lineup of such world-class performers.

Swallowing dryly, I clasped my hands tightly and waited. After a brief, agonizing silence──

──The moment she stepped onto the stage, every lingering trace of anxiety vanished into thin air.

For a split second, I didn't even recognize that the person standing there was her.

My eyes widened, and my breath seized in my throat. Every cell in my body locked onto her figure, giving me the distinct illusion that even my heart had forgotten how to beat.

──I had no words. I possessed no vocabulary capable of articulating the sheer awe coursing through me.

Because her skin was naturally porcelain-white, the traditional oshiroi makeup carried no sense of artificiality. Her long white hair was gathered into an intricate, elegant updo, fastened with an exquisite kanzashi hairpin.

Draped in a pristine white kimono adorned with drifting cherry blossom petals──she was not the Nagi I knew.

Her sharply narrowed eyes. Her tightly composed lips. Every single line of her posture──

──Ah. That's it. She was "beautiful."

No word in the human language suited her better. It felt as though the word itself had been invented solely for her existence.

The fleeting thought that traditional dance usually featured black hair vanished instantly. Black hair could never hope to capture this ethereal beauty. White was the only color that truly belonged to Nagi.

And without a single note of musical accompaniment, Nagi began to dance.

The subtle tilt of her neck, the precise movement of her hands and feet──it was more refined than anything we had seen all day. Her presence commanded your gaze, effortlessly directing where to look.

Her expressive power was staggering. What her gaze conveyed, what the sweep of her sleeve portrayed──I understood every single emotion without needing a word of explanation. The story painted itself directly into my mind.

While the previous performers had been undeniably elite, her movements existed in an entirely different dimension, even to an amateur's eye.

An unprecedentedly fierce, intense expression. I had never seen her looking so completely absorbed.

──She's gorgeous. Incredibly, breathtakingly gorgeous.

For an instant──a single, fleeting fraction of a second──her gaze swept toward my seat. Her expression did not break.

However, the fierce intensity in her eyes seemed to soften for a split second... and in the very next moment.

Her folding fan snapped open before her chest.

A brilliant blue, matching the color of her eyes. An exquisite fan painted with a gradient of sky blue and deep ocean sapphire.

The atmosphere shifted instantly. It was impossible to capture in words, but──

──It looked as though the "Ice Princess" had transformed back into "Nagi."

With slow, breathtaking grace, she twirled the fan. Though the motion appeared effortless, the sleight of hand was impossible to track. A kaname-gaeshi, was it? It was a technique I had read about... but could it really be executed with such peerless elegance?

I was completely entranced by the fluid motion. No. I couldn't tear my eyes away. I had to force myself to exhale just to keep watching. My chest felt ready to burst.

Her subsequent movements were distinctly different from the opening. The fan moved as if it were a natural extension of her own body.

The rhythm of her steps and gestures transformed. Fluid. Seamless. Her facial expression remained composed... yet she radiated vibrant, joyful life.

──Ah, I see.

I finally understood why her dancing had changed.

Nagi had been terrified.

As her movements flowed freely, the sharp, resonant notes of the shamisen finally joined her dance, echoing through the hall.

Her peerless technique seemed to evolve with every passing second. Like a child growing before our eyes, her dance grew more vivid and dazzling at a speed that left the audience breathless.

This was Nagi's true, unbridled talent.

Before I realized it, a silent smile had spread across my face.

When she first walked out, she had looked like an unreachable stranger. But now, seeing the true Nagi shining through filled me with overwhelming happiness.

Harder working than anyone, kinder than anyone... my beautiful Nagi. It felt as though her entire essence had been distilled into this single, magnificent dance.

I was so deeply, truly happy. And in that moment, I finally confronted the undeniable truth swelling in my chest.

──I was hopelessly, completely in love with Nagi.

◆◆◆

"...That was unreal."

"Yeah. It really was incredible."

I nodded in dazed agreement with Eiji. The patrons walking around us were showering Nagi with praise, talking about how stunning and talented she was, which filled me with immense pride.

Belatedly, I noticed Eiji looking at me with a knowing smirk.

"Man, I'm just glad to see you smiling, Souta. I was worried you'd start spiraling again about 'living in different worlds.'"

A wry laugh escaped my lips.

"Honestly, that was my first thought. But halfway through, her real self broke through. It reminded me that Nagi isn't just an untouchable 'Ice Princess'... she's Nagi, an ordinary, precious girl."

"O-Oh? Look at you....Did something click in that thick skull of yours?"

"...Maybe."

Answering vaguely, I reaffirmed the resolve in my heart.

I could no longer ignore this overwhelming feeling. I couldn't hide it, either. In that case──I had no choice but to face it head-on. I hadn't expected the realization to hit me this quickly, though.

Just as I settled my resolve──

"Are you Souta Minori-sama?"

──A voice called out from behind me. Turning around... I found a woman in her forties standing there.

She had short black hair and an exceptionally dignified, graceful bearing. The sheer elegance of her presence made my posture snap to attention.

"Y-Yes, I'm Souta Minori, but... who might you be?"

"Pardon my intrusion."

The woman offered an immaculate bow before looking up at me.

"I am an attendant of the Shinonome household... and the personal housekeeper to Nagi-sama. My name is Shouko Susaka."

...Nagi's personal housekeeper?

"Souta Minori-sama. There is a matter I wish to discuss with you. If you could spare a brief moment of your time, I would be most grateful."

"Y-Yes... I don't mind, but..."

I glanced back at Eiji and the others. Noticing my hesitation, the woman──Susaka-san gave a gentle nod.

"Your friends are more than welcome to accompany us, of course."

"Understood."

With the lobby still crowded, we exited the building and walked toward the far corner of the parking lot, where a bench and vending machines sat in relative isolation.

Fortunately, there was no one else around.

"Now then. First and foremost, Minori-sama. Allow me to thank you from the bottom of my heart for befriending the young lady... and for coming to her aid."

With that, Susaka-san bowed deeply. Processing her words, a flurry of questions raced through my mind.

"N-No, um, that is... Did Nagi... did Nagi-san talk to you about me?"

"Please rest assured. I am the only one who has heard of you, Minori-sama. Furthermore, your usual way of addressing her and your casual manner of speech are perfectly fine with me."

It was news to me that Nagi had been talking about me to her staff, though.

"I currently serve as the young lady's dedicated housekeeper, primarily assisting with her culinary endeavors. Previously, I served the madam."

"Ah, I see."

She definitely knew about the bento arrangement, then. Which meant she probably knew I was utterly useless in the kitchen as well...

"Please do not worry. I have heard the full circumstances from the young lady."

"T-Thank you for your understanding."

Susaka-san cleared her throat with a polite cough.

"I must not monopolize your valuable time, so allow me to get straight to the point."

I braced myself, hoping it wasn't bad news... when suddenly, Susaka-san bowed her head once more.

"The fact that the young lady was able to demonstrate her true potential on stage today is entirely thanks to you, Minori-sama. You have my deepest gratitude."

"...Thanks to me?"

"Yes. When the young lady's demeanor transformed mid-performance... the person at the end of her gaze was you, Minori-sama."

...So that was how she identified me in the crowd.

Wait, no. That still didn't add up.

"B-But our seats were pretty far from the stage. Didn't you consider the possibility that she was looking at someone else?"

"No, I did not. There is another reason, you see."

Susaka-san offered a warm, gentle smile──the kind of smile that instantly put people at ease.

"More than anyone else in that vast auditorium... Minori-sama, you were looking at the young lady with greater adoration than anyone in the room. That is how I knew."

"Ghk..."

Heat rushed straight to my face. Even without looking back, I could feel Eiji and the others grinning like idiots behind me.

"I simply wished to express my gratitude. Lately, the young lady has been spending her days with such genuine joy. It has been many years since I last saw her speak with such lively happiness... just as she did in her childhood."

Susaka-san looked into the distance with a nostalgic, fond expression....Then, turning back to me, her eyes hardened with serious resolve.

"Knowing it is shameless of me to ask, there is a favor I must request of you."

"...? What is it?"

Being asked for a favor out of nowhere left me clueless. Susaka-san continued with her explanation.

"The young lady harbors profound gratitude toward the master and madam... her father and mother. She feels an immense sense of indebtedness for being taken in and raised with such devoted care."

I had gathered as much from my conversations with Nagi, but hearing it confirmed was striking. While that seemed like a noble sentiment on the surface... Susaka-san wore a troubled frown.

"Of course, the master and madam love the young lady just as deeply in return. However, navigating a relationship with a teenage daughter is a delicate matter... The master's well-intentioned actions frequently backfire, and with both parents consumed by their demanding careers, misunderstandings arise all too often."

"I see."

I could understand that, at least to some degree. Plenty of my classmates complained about friction and distance with their parents.

"In particular, the master is an exceedingly awkward man. While second to none in the realm of business... my apologies, I am straying from the point."

"No, it's fine. I've rarely heard Nagi talk about her parents, so..."

Thinking it was best not to pry into family matters, I had deliberately avoided asking Nagi too many questions....I had practically steered clear of the topic entirely.

"Thank you. However, I cannot afford to take up any more of your time."

Susaka-san had clearly slipped away during a busy schedule to speak with us. I nodded quietly, waiting for her core request.

"For now, the friction between them remains manageable. However, I fear that one day, the master and the young lady will suffer a severe, irreconcilable misunderstanding. Should that occur, it is entirely possible the young lady will be deeply wounded. And knowing her, she will never voice her pain to the master, nor to me... she will not even allow it to show on her face. When that day comes, I beg of you, Minori-sama, along with your dear friends... please be the pillar of support that Nagi-sama so desperately needs."

Susaka-san's gaze swept from me to Hayama, Eiji, and Nishizawa. I met her eyes and gave a firm, unhesitating nod.

"If Nagi is ever hurting, I'll be there for her. I swear I'll support her."

"Count me in too!"

"We might have only just met her, but if anything happens, we've got her back."

"I want to become even closer with Nagiri... with Nagi-chan! I'll help in any way I can!"

Following my lead, Hayama and the others chimed in with absolute sincerity. Hearing our answers, Susaka-san pulled a handkerchief from her pocket and gently dabbed at her eyes.

"Pardon me. Perhaps it is my advancing age, but I find myself easily moved to tears lately....Of course, I shall continue to do everything within my power to support the young lady as well."

Returning the handkerchief to her pocket, Susaka-san gave us a radiant, appreciative smile.

"Thank you so very much for today. The young lady has sworn me to secrecy, so I have not spoken of you, Minori-sama, to the master or madam... but please, meet with them someday. I am certain they will be overjoyed to know you."

"Y-Yes. Understood."

If I was truly going to face my feelings for Nagi, meeting her parents was an inevitable step.

"Thank you as well. Until next time."

"Yes. I pray from the bottom of my heart that we meet again soon."

With that, we parted ways with Susaka-san.

I had witnessed an entirely new side of Nagi today....And finally confronted the truth of my own heart.

Now that I knew how I felt──I had to prepare myself for what came next.

◆◇◆◇◆

Around the time Souta and the others were speaking with Susaka. ──In a private, soundproofed VIP room, a father and son sat facing one another.

"Father. I have a request."

The speaker was a handsome young man dressed in a tailored suit. He appeared to be around twenty years old. His expression was dead serious, and underneath, intense nerves were evident. His tightly clenched fists were damp with sweat.

"What is it?"

Sitting across from him was a man with slicked-back black hair, neatly styled with pomade. For a man with a grown son, he should have shown signs of age, yet his sharp face carried no trace of weariness.

"...I am interested in the woman who performed in the final program."

After a brief hesitation, the young man stated his intention. Though phrased delicately, the romantic implication was unmistakable to his father.

"Are you serious? Do you comprehend that she is the daughter of our fiercest corporate rival?"

Without twitching a single eyebrow, the older man spoke. However, the son refused to drop his gaze.

"Yes....If this is unacceptable, I am prepared to be disowned. I have already braced myself for that consequence."

The man pressed a hand to his forehead. He knew his son well enough to recognize absolute, unyielding sincerity.

"I apologize for being an unfilial son. But even if you disown me, I swear I will repay my debt of gratitude to you one day."

"Do not speak such foolishness."

The man doted on this young man, his only biological son. Right now, the scales in the man's mind were tipping violently.

Business, or family. Which took precedence?

After a long silence, the father let out a heavy sigh.

"Will pursuing this lead to your happiness?"

"Yes, without a shadow of a doubt."

"Do you realize she is still a high school student?"

"Age is irrelevant. Even if she were the exact same age as you, Father, I would be kneeling before you making this exact same plea."

The older man lowered his head in quiet resignation.

"I will consider it....Ensure you are prepared to meet her at a moment's notice."

At that quiet concession, the young man's face lit up with radiant joy.

"...! Thank you so very much, Father!"

──It would still be some time before Souta and Nagi learned of this conversation.