Section 2

Chapter 4

The chill hung heavy in the air of the gymnasium. Apparently, some schools had heating in their gyms, but ours was not one of them. That said, with so many people gathered together, it was warmer inside than out....Though the stagnant air also meant it felt like an easy time of year to catch a cold.

Listening to the principal's speech while looking around, the students paying serious attention seemed to be in the minority. The boy standing right in front of me turned around with a bored look on his face.

"...Hey. I think this every single time, but is this part actually necessary?"

"I think so too, but complaining won't change anything, so just face forward. You're gonna get scolded."

"I know, but... it's just so damn cold."

Warming his fingertips with a pocket warmer was my best friend, Eiji Makisaka. True to his well-styled hair and bright aura, he had a wide circle of acquaintances. But he wasn't frivolous by any means; he was someone who had helped me, Souta Minori, out of tight spots countless times.

That aside, we were currently in the middle of the second term's closing ceremony. No matter how popular Eiji was, acting like this would get him singled out by the teachers. Knowing this, he didn't turn around again after that....Though he did try poking at me a few times without looking back.

Once the principal's address and the guidance counselor's speech ended, we were dismissed for free time. Eiji stretched out wide as if proclaiming it was finally over.

"Khaaaah... Oh yeah, Souta."

"What?"

"You're heading back to your parents' place for winter break, right?"

"Yeah. If I don't, my dad'll sulk."

"You did say the other day that they dote on you like crazy. Isn't that great, though? Being loved like that."

"...I mean, yeah, but... getting hugged out in public at my age is a bit much."

Eiji laughed merrily. I let out a sigh as we headed back to the classroom together.

Both of my parents doted on me, but while my mom was relatively mild, my dad took it to another level. His treatment of me probably hadn't changed since I was in elementary school.

Of course, our family had always gotten along well. I truly considered myself blessed in that regard.

"Well, there are surprisingly plenty of people out there who don't get along with their parents. A lot of folks complain about them, you know. Not like your kind of complaining, but real, serious gripes."

"If a family gets along well, they probably just don't feel the need to bring it up to others."

"True. I don't really talk about mine either, but my family's pretty close. My big sis isn't a tyrant or anything."

"Come to think of it, you do have an older sister."

Eiji gave off big-brother vibes, but he was actually the youngest sibling.

"Yep. Well, when push comes to shove, my sis is pretty dependable. If you ever need anything, just let me know. Like picking out cool clothes or whatever."

"Sure. I'll take you up on that sometime."

By the way, Eiji's sister worked at a clothing store. I had put off my thought of wanting to go there with Nagi someday, so I wanted to visit sometime soon. Though that would probably be after the new year at the earliest.

"Also, Souta. Mind if I ask one more thing?"

"Hm? What is it?"

"You mentioned earlier that your parents came to visit recently, right?"

"Yeah. They did."

Last month, my parents had paid a surprise visit. The reason being—the whole situation involving Nagi Shinonome, who was currently my girlfriend and fiancee.

To put it briefly, on the day I planned to confess my feelings to Nagi... I found out that she was supposed to meet an arranged marriage partner the very next day. Eiji was the one who pulled me out of my slump when I was feeling down about it. Then, after realizing that Nagi and her parents were having a misunderstanding, I rushed over to her house early the next morning.

Nagi had been hiding her true self to meet her father's expectations. Meanwhile, her father, Souichirou Shinonome, had sensed that Nagi had a difficult time dealing with men and was hoping she could make a male friend. Tied in with business affairs and the fact that Souichirou-san and his family didn't know about me... the threads had gotten tangled into a complicated mess.

That matter was successfully resolved—which gave rise to a new issue. Namely, the aforementioned visit from my parents.

Due to various circumstances, I was currently living alone in Tokyo. Since we couldn't see each other in person, I reported my daily life to my parents every single day....Though by "reports," I just meant simple check-ins like whether I was feeling sick or not.

However, I ended up missing our daily communication on that particular day. It would have been easy to claim I had simply forgotten, but I felt like Mom and Dad would see right through it. Since Nagi had become my fiancee, I also wanted to properly discuss the situation with them... and when I consulted Nagi, she told me she wanted to explain things to them in her own words.

Following that ordeal, Mom and Dad came to my apartment last month. We explained everything to them, Souichirou-san and his family came over as well... and Nagi and I officially became fiancees with the approval of both families.

That was the full story behind what Eiji had just asked about—the sudden visit from my parents.

"Thinking back on it, I realized I probably should've introduced myself to them back then."

"...Come to think of it, yeah. It completely slipped my mind with everything going on with Nagi, but Mom and Dad mentioned they wanted to meet you too."

Until I entered high school, I had never had a close friend. Eiji was my first friend and my best friend. Naturally, I had talked about him to my parents, so in hindsight, I really should have introduced them. Not just Eiji, but Kirika Nishizawa, his girlfriend whom I had befriended through him. And Hikaru Hayama, Nagi's friend with whom I had also grown close.

"...Well, I'm sure there'll be another chance."

"Yeah. Someday... Actually, nah, leaving it like that kinda bugs me. You know how it is—when people exchange contact info, say 'Let's hang out sometime,' and then never end up messaging each other even once."

"Unfortunately, my social circle's pretty narrow, so I wouldn't really know. Is that how it usually goes?"

"Yeah. Like ninety percent of the guys I hung out with in middle school, I don't even talk to anymore."

It sounded like a bit of an exaggeration, but Eiji had a wide network. Since someone with as many friends as him was saying it, it was probably true.

"When I find a guy I wanna be friends with, I just pick a specific day to hang out right away. That's the secret to getting close. By the way, if they turn you down two or three times, it means you've got no shot."

"...Come to think of it, you used to message me every day in the beginning, asking if I was free this weekend and stuff."

"Yep. Exactly."

It seemed my hunch had been spot on. So that had been his intention from the start...

"Why did you want to be friends with me in the first place, anyway? I mean, I'm grateful you helped me search for my wallet and all."

The catalyst for Eiji and me becoming close was that I had lost my wallet on the first day of school. As I was frantically searching the classroom in a panic, Eiji was the one who called out to me.

At the time, I just thought of him as a kind person... but looking back, I never actually knew why he wanted to become friends with me after that. It was also a little embarrassing to ask.

When I took the chance to ask, Eiji chuckled.

"Why, huh? Come to think of it, I've never really thought about it."

"Really?"

"I'm a guy who trusts his intuition. And honestly, I'm never bored when I'm around you....Though I guess intuition is still based on personal experience. If I think about it properly, it makes sense."

Eiji narrowed his eyes. He then gazed off into empty space.

"You reminded me of a certain someone. A genuinely good person who's serious to a fault, tries to shoulder everything alone, and works hard with pure dedication."

"...A certain someone, huh?"

"Yeah. Someone."

He clearly had no intention of elaborating with a name. With that, Eiji closed his eyes for a long moment and walked ahead.

"Hey, Souta. Changing the subject a bit, or rather going back to it..."

"What?"

"Mind if I come along to the place where you grew up?"

"...Huh?"

I couldn't help letting out a bewildered gasp at the completely unexpected request, but honestly, anyone would have.

◆◆◆

"Are Makisaka-san and the others joining you on your trip home?"

"My wording was a bit lacking. Strictly speaking, it's a little different."

On our way home. Walking beside me was a stunning beauty who would turn the heads of every single person who passed by.

Hair as pure white as the first snowfall. Eyes as blue as the deep ocean, and facial features that looked distinctly non-Japanese.

Because of her cool, poised appearance... and the aura she gave off, people sometimes called her the "Ice Princess."

—Nagi Shinonome.

My girlfriend, and my fiancee. The scarf and gloves I was currently wearing were Christmas gifts from her. Since the cold days were still continuing this season, they were a huge help.

Nagi tilted her head slightly at my words. Every single one of her gestures was incredibly cute.

Putting my thoughts on hold, I returned to the conversation.

"They said they wanted to go for Hatsumode, our first shrine visit of the new year."

"Hatsumode... That sounds like quite a long trip just for that, though."

"Yeah. I told them that too. It's not like we'd go in the middle of the night on the thirty-first; the plan is to go on January first. Apparently, Eiji and the others have their family gatherings on the second or third."

"I'd like to say that makes sense, but... isn't that still rather far?"

"Well... it's just who they are. Eiji has an insanely light footwork. Same goes for Nishizawa."

"I see. Put that way, it makes sense. Hayama-san is rather similar in that regard."

Eiji was the kind of person who would invite people out the moment he had free time. Conversely, whenever I was free and asked if he could hang out, he'd say yes nine times out of ten. Around four of those times, Nishizawa would be with him on a date. I always felt bad about intruding, but both of them insisted that having more people was more fun.

And since Nishizawa shared that same trait, Nagi nodded repeatedly in understanding.

"Well, it's just a 'maybe' for now. Bullet train seats fill up fast this time of year. But Eiji said he had an idea even if that happened. Plus, I asked Mom and Dad, and they were all for it."

"I see. Will there be enough room for everyone?"

"Yeah. We have guest rooms, and Eiji and the others said they'd only stay for one night if they come, so it should be fine."

Our family home wasn't cramped by any means. If anything, I'd say it was on the spacious side....Though it was nothing compared to Nagi's house. Hosting a few friends for a sleepover wouldn't be an issue at all.

"Understood....Souta-kun."

"I know. Should we invite Hayama too?"

"I would love to invite her if possible. Of course, she might be busy during New Year's, but..."

"Yeah, I'll reach out to her. Hayama's my friend now, too."

By Hayama, we meant Hikaru Hayama, who attended the same high school as Nagi. She was Nagi's friend, and by now, it was fair to say she was my friend as well.

Besides, having more friends over would probably make my parents happy too. Of course, that was assuming the timing worked out for Hayama.

"Yes! Please do!"

After discussing it with Nagi, I paused for a moment to message Hayama—and she immediately replied, "If it's January first, I'm totally free and I'd love to go!" It seemed her family gatherings were scheduled for the second onwards as well.

...This New Year's might end up being quite a lively one.

◆◆◆

Nagi was visiting my place today. We were leaving for my parents' house tomorrow, and it seemed Nagi had already finished her packing. Souichirou-san and the others were planning to drive us to the station tomorrow morning and bring Nagi's luggage along with them. They were taking such good care of us; I truly had to be grateful.

"~~~"

Nagi hummed a little tune as she chopped vegetables. She was preparing a meal for us.

"You seem to be in a good mood."

"Yes. I'm very curious about the place where you grew up, Souta-kun. And of course, having Nishizawa-san and the others come over for New Year's sounds like it will be a lot of fun together with everyone."

"Yeah. I'm... also happy that I can finally show Mom and Dad that I've made several friends."

I had only made true friends for the first time after entering high school. In that respect, I was just like Nagi.

It wasn't that I had felt lonely being on my own, so while Mom and Dad worried, they never pushed the issue any further. In truth, I was the type who could enjoy being alone.

However—after making friends and meeting Nagi, I felt like I had changed a lot.

Seeing me enjoying myself with friends would surely put Mom and Dad at ease.

"...You mentioned before that you didn't have any friends back then."

"Yeah. But still, I had Mom and Dad. On free weekends, they'd take me out to the movies and stuff, so I enjoyed myself in my own way back then."

"Weren't there... other things that happened as well?"

"..."

I was a little surprised by Nagi's words. I hadn't expected her to ask about that here.

"...Well, a lot happened back there. Otherwise, I wouldn't have come all the way out here, after all."

"..."

"I'll tell you about all of that when we get there. A lot happened, but there were plenty of fun memories too."

Seeming satisfied with that answer, Nagi gave a small nod. I could have explained it now, but hearing only that part might give her a negative impression of my hometown. On the other hand, if I wanted to share the fun memories too... I would have to tell her everything. In that case, looking through photo albums or visiting the places where I used to hang out would convey the atmosphere much better.

"Sorry for acting like I'm keeping secrets from you....Though I guess I basically am."

"No. I know you're saying that because you want to share the happy stories with me. If anything, I'm sorry for being selfish."

"Don't apologize, Nagi. Just knowing you want to learn more about me makes me really happy."

I had avoided the topic myself, assuming it wouldn't be pleasant to hear. But... knowing that Nagi genuinely wanted to know made me purely happy.

"Still... No, you're right. Let's agree neither of us needs to worry about it. How about a hug?"

"...You just wanted an excuse to do that, didn't you, Nagi?"

"Fufu, you caught me."

With light, bouncing steps, Nagi approached me. I stood up from my chair and prepared to welcome her.

When I spread my arms slightly, Nagi dove right in. She squeezed me tightly, with enough force that it almost made a sound.

"Souta-kun."

"...Want to?"

"Yes."

Nagi looked up at me with upturned eyes... Picking up on the cue, I asked, and she gave a small nod.

A curtain fell over her blue eyes as she stood on tiptoe just a little. Waiting for her—I pressed my lips against hers.

A soft texture, and her warm body heat. A wave of euphoria so intense it made my brain tingle washed over me, sending a shiver down my spine.

When we slowly parted our lips... Nagi offered a gentle smile.

"...Ehehe. I'll get back to cooking and do my best."

"I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for always making such delicious meals."

Basking in the lingering afterglow of euphoria, I expressed my gratitude. Since I left all the meal preparations to Nagi, I really couldn't thank her enough.

Hearing my words, Nagi's smile deepened even further.

"You're very welcome."

With that, Nagi spun around, picked up the kitchen knife, and resumed cutting the vegetables.

Talking with Nagi from time to time as she hummed softly while cooking. I loved moments like these.

◆◆◆

"Pardon me, I'll be joining you."

With those words, slipping under the covers... and lying down beside me was Nagi, wearing fluffy pajamas.

Ever since we started dating, we had begun sleeping together like this from time to time.

"It has been cold lately, so... well, I don't really need an excuse like that, do I? May I hold your hand?"

"Of course."

I took the hand she offered. It was warm and soft....Even though I had held it countless times, for some reason, I still felt a slight flutter of nervousness.

When our hands intertwined, Nagi smiled happily, her eyes narrowing softly. She squeezed gently, as if enjoying the texture of my palm. Then, reaching out with her other hand, she enveloped mine completely.

"Your hands bring me such peace of mind, Souta-kun. Whether you're holding my hand or patting my head."

Still holding my hand, Nagi guided it toward her face. My palm came to rest against her cheek.

"I love it when you touch my cheek like this, too."

Nagi rubbed her cheek against my palm like a cat. Since she had guided me there, I stroked her cheek gently, causing her expression to melt as she closed her eyes in pure comfort....It might sound odd to say, but she had the adorable charm of a small animal.

"I like doing this, too."

"Fufu. Supply meets demand. A fair give-and-take, wouldn't you say?"

I continued caressing Nagi's cheek for a while. After about five minutes, Nagi seemed satisfied and let go of my hand.

"Now then... it's my turn."

Just when I thought that was the end of it, Nagi reached out to touch my cheek this time.

Unlike hers, my cheek wasn't particularly soft. I didn't think there was anything enjoyable about touching it, but Nagi seemed to find it fun.

"Touching you like this, I can tell your skin condition has been improving."

"Really? Now that you mention it, maybe... Is it because of the meals you cook for me, Nagi?"

"That is likely part of it, but I believe sleep plays a role as well. You tend to fall asleep early when you're with me."

"Ah, that makes sense. Also, even on the days you don't stay over, I've been going to bed earlier. Once we finish our phone calls, I just naturally get sleepy."

On the days Nagi didn't stay at my place, we talked on the phone almost every day. Stories about how her instructor praised her during lessons, how I took a nap because I was tired, or how I hung out with Eiji after school. Things like that.

In the beginning, I used to take a bath or read manga after finishing our calls, but gradually I started getting sleepy right around the time the call ended, so I began taking my bath beforehand. Once the call was over, I would get ready for bed. Eventually, I started finishing all my bedtime preparations before calling Nagi, and lately, drowsiness would hit me right as our phone call wrapped up, leading me to turn off the lights and go straight to sleep.

"I had no idea. I was usually half-asleep and dazed toward the end, so I never noticed."

"...You get pretty out of it when you're half-asleep, Nagi. Especially lately."

"D-Did I say something strange?"

I couldn't answer Nagi's question immediately.

Whenever she got sleepy... especially recently, she would tell me, "I love you so much," and "I love you, Souta-kun." There were even a few times she said it in her sleep.

I had assumed she remembered... but since she had been half-asleep, I supposed it was practically sleep-talking.

"...I don't think it was strange at all, though?"

"Ugh... I-It's a little embarrassing if I don't even remember it."

Even in the dark, I could tell Nagi's cheeks were turning faintly red. She pulled her hand away from my cheek and placed it over her own face to hide it.

Then, her blue eyes darted over toward me—

"H-Hop!"

"Mmh?!"

—She suddenly pressed her lips against mine. Being caught off guard like that naturally startled me.

The kiss didn't last long; after about two blinks, Nagi pulled away. Her face was flushed a much deeper red than before.

"I-I wondered if I could overwrite my embarrassment with happiness."

"...Did it work?"

"I-I don't know. But right now, I feel so very happy."

Her cheeks burning bright red, Nagi rested a finger against her own lips. The gesture carried a certain allure... causing me to instinctively look away.

Even when it came to kissing... if I wasn't prepared to receive it, it made me shy. More than that, though, I felt immense happiness, so it certainly wasn't that I disliked it.

Thump-thump. To calm my racing pulse, which was far too wild for someone about to sleep, I took slow, deep breaths.

"Souta-kun."

"...Yeah."

Hearing my name called, I shifted my gaze back to see Nagi opening her arms slightly. As I pulled her close... I could hear the rapid thumping of a heartbeat that wasn't my own.

Eventually, our heartbeats synchronized, gradually settling down.

Hugging Nagi made me nervous, but oddly enough, it brought me an even greater sense of calm. And a profound feeling of euphoria.

"I love cuddling tightly with you like this, Souta-kun."

"...I love it too."

"That makes me happy."

We continued holding each other. Feeling her warmth against my entire body, and sensing her softness as she rubbed her cheek against me....Plus, she smelled amazingly good.

As we held each other for a while, I heard Nagi softly stifle a tiny yawn. She was probably getting sleepy.

"Should we head to sleep soon?"

"Yes. We have an early morning tomorrow, after all....May we stay like this?"

"Yeah, that's fine."

I had been planning to do the same. Nagi gave a pleased "yes" and nodded... and gradually, her breathing became steady and rhythmic.

"Good night, Nagi."

"Good night, Souta-kun."

With that, we closed our eyes. It might have seemed like an uncomfortable posture to sleep in—yet, surprisingly easily, I drifted off to sleep.

◆◇◆

When I wake up in the morning, my beloved is sleeping right beside me. Breathing peacefully, looking so comfortable.

My boyfriend—Souta Minori-kun.

Having him by my side. Just how much happiness that brought me—I had come to truly understand in recent days.

So much has happened. Ever since I met him.

I was terrified when a stranger groped me on the train. I wanted to call for help, but fear stole my voice away. I thought someone around me would help... but no one did, except for him.

He was the only one who saved me. After that incident made me more terrified of men than ever before... I relied on him.

So many things truly happened. The one etched most deeply in my memory—was the day I betrayed him.

I weighed him, the person who had saved me, against my family on a scale, and chose my family....When my family found out afterward, they were devastated with regret, making it a choice that brought happiness to no one.

Yet, he saved me once again. Not only that... he gave me, the person who had betrayed him, another chance. No. Phrasing it like that isn't right.

Souta-kun simply continued to love me. That was why I became honest with my own feelings, too....Considering what I had done, it was an incredibly convenient outcome—which was why, on that Christmas Day. I went to the amusement park with him once more and started everything over from the beginning.

That didn't erase everything. But it was necessary for me to sort through my feelings.

It wasn't about me making him happy. We were going to become happy together.

"—Fufu."

Remembering that, I tickled the hair of the boy breathing softly in front of me with my finger.

Souta-kun was truly so cool, so kind... and so cute.

Without realizing it, I ended up staring at his sleeping face for five whole minutes, which I kept a secret.

Unable to resist my desires, I gave him a tight squeeze and even planted a little kiss on his cheek.

Then, I woke him up. To avoid startling him, I touched his shoulder gently and shook him. Doing this caused Souta-kun's consciousness to awaken bit by bit.

"...Nn."

Letting out a small murmur, he slowly opened his eyelids. After blinking several times to clear the sleep from his eyes... his gaze finally focused.

"Good morning, Souta-kun. It's morning."

"...Yeah. Good morning, Nagi."

With his eyes still looking slightly drowsy, Souta-kun spread his arms. Without hesitation, I dove right into them. Morning Souta-kun was clingy and utterly adorable.

"I'll make breakfast right away, so please get ready to head out, Souta-kun."

"Thanks, Nagi."

"You're very welcome."

Our usual exchange. After burying my face in Souta-kun's neck for one final, tight squeeze, our hug came to an end.

After that, we ate breakfast and double-checked our luggage. That said, I already had my packed suitcase waiting at home, which Papa and the others would be bringing to the station for us, so there were no issues there.

"Well... we're heading back to my parents' house, so I doubt we'll be in trouble even if we're missing a few things."

"I agree, but being prepared just in case is important. For example... Souta-kun, did you pack pocket tissues and a handkerchief?"

"Ah."

Souta-kun let out a small gasp and hurried over to the living room. When he returned, he had pocket tissues and a handkerchief in hand.

"I genuinely forgot. Thanks, Nagi."

"Fufu, you're welcome. Suzaka-san points it out to me sometimes too, which is how I remember."

Besides that, many daily necessities couldn't easily be substituted. Cosmetics and the like... though in Souta-kun's case, he didn't use much of those. For some people, things like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and shampoo fell into that category. Forgetting those could lead to small accumulations of stress.

Discussing such things with Souta-kun, we conducted our final luggage check. I felt a natural sense of excitement bubbling up for my first long-distance trip with Souta-kun.

◆◆◆

After spending about two hours on the bullet train, we arrived at the station. This was my first time traveling this far. Normally, it would take another thirty minutes or so by local train from here. However, he had mentioned that wouldn't be necessary.

Souta-kun looked toward the station entrance and let out a small sigh. Standing there—was Souta-kun's mother, Kazumi Minori-sama, who would become my mother-in-law, and beside her was a burly, muscular man. This was Souta-kun's father, Daigo Minori-sama, who would become my father-in-law.

"Soutaaaaaa! My beloved sooooooon!"

"Dad. Please, just don't shout so loud. It's embarrassing."

Souta-kun's father came running over and pulled Souta-kun into a tight embrace. It was a sight I had witnessed not too long ago.

"How many years has it been... since we last saw each other face-to-face?"

"It hasn't even been a month since then."

"You fool. Subjectively, it feels like two years!"

"Yeah, yeah."

Souta-kun brushed it off with a casual tone... yet, he looked just a little bit happy. Souta-kun had previously described his parents as doting to an extreme, but I could tell Souta-kun loved his parents very much as well. It was a wonderful, heartwarming thing.

"Oh, honestly, dear. You're startling Nagi-chan, aren't you? It's been about a month, Nagi-chan. Have you been doing well?"

"O-Oh. Forgive me. It's been a while, Nagi-chan."

Souta-kun's father let go of him, and the two of them looked at me. Seeing them again, I couldn't help but think how youthful they both seemed.

Furthermore, Souta-kun's father was... remarkably tall. A whole size larger than Souta-kun.

Souta-kun wasn't short by any means. If anything, he was taller than average. Yet, the difference in height between them was substantial. He might have been around one hundred and ninety centimeters tall. Being hugged by him like that, Souta-kun was completely enveloped. Souta-kun wasn't slender either, and had a rather blessed build. His hands were large, too. But Souta-kun's father had an even larger frame and an appearance that stood out from the people around him. Even though I knew he was a kind person, I couldn't help feeling nervous. Souta-kun's mother looked at me and giggled.

"There's no need to feel nervous around us, Nagi-chan. This man is actually a big scaredy-cat. At home, he was so worried about middle-aged odor that he sprayed the room with deodorant like crazy, and was even about to spray it on himself, you know?"

"What in the world are you doing, Dad..."

At their words, Souta-kun's father let out a soft, awkward laugh. He seemed a little embarrassed.

"Once again, it has been a while. And starting today, I will be in your care for a short time. I am Nagi Shinonome. It is a pleasure to be with you."

Though I had met them once before, proper greetings were essential. After all, I would be staying with them from today on.

In response to my words, the two of them offered wonderful, warm smiles.

"We're glad to have you, Nagi-chan. It might be difficult at first, but we'd be delighted if you could make yourself at home, just like in your own house."

"Welcome, Nagi-chan. I may look like this, but these muscles were built to protect my family. Of course, Nagi-chan, as Souta-kun's future bride, you are part of our family now too. Along with Souichirou-san and the rest of your family. So, um... I'd be glad if you weren't frightened of me."

"Fufu."

A smile slipped out involuntarily. We had already explained to them that I had a difficult time dealing with men. That was precisely why he was being so considerate.

"Of course. It is an honor....And on this occasion, there is a small request I would like to make."

"What might that be?"

Starting today, I would be staying at Souta-kun's family home. As that began, several things had come to mind. In particular... how to address Souta-kun's mother and father. I couldn't keep calling them "Souta-kun's mother and father" forever, and while using their first names with "-san" wasn't bad... it felt a little distant.

"Starting today, I would like to address you as Mother and Father."

Both of their shoulders jumped in surprise. Then, exchanging glances... broad, delighted grins spread across their faces.

"Mother..."

"Yes... finally, dear."

"Dad, Mom. I get that you're happy, but give her an answer first."

At Souta-kun's prompting, his mother said, "Right," cleared her throat, and looked at me.

"Of course, please do!...I've always wanted a daughter."

"Being called 'Father' by Souta's bride... another dream has come true... Next, I'll work toward getting Souta to call me Papa—"

"I am never calling you that."

Souta-kun—cut in over Father's words, but smiled gently as he looked at me.

"So there you have it. Good for you."

"Yes! Then, once again, I look forward to being in your care! Mother, Father!"

"Yes, we're glad to have you, Nagi-chan."

"Welcome, Nagi-chan."

Mother and Father replied with bright smiles. A warm sensation welled up inside me, bringing an involuntary smile to my face as well.

And so, our winter break began.

◆◆◆

Having finished our greetings at the station, we walked toward a nearby coin-operated parking lot.

"H-Hey, Souta. Aren't you gonna get lost? You know, we used to hold hands and walk together all the time back in the day, right?"

"That was back in early elementary school. Just so you know, I'm at that rebellious age, so I will refuse with all my might."

"Dear. No matter how much you've missed Souta, you're going to make him dislike you."

"Guh... I'm sorry, Souta."

Watching Father banter with Souta-kun naturally brought a smile to my lips.

Souta-kun looked half-flustered and half-exasperated... a rare expression for him. It felt like discovering a new side of him, which made me very happy.

As we walked, Mother spoke to me.

"Nagi-chan. Has Souta been causing you any trouble since then?"

"No, not at all. Far from it, he has been a tremendous help. We were able to spend Christmas together, and every single day has been so much fun."

On Christmas, Souta-kun and I went to an amusement park. —To that very amusement park where I had betrayed Souta-kun. By starting that day over, I had finally been able to look forward.

"Besides, he reminded me that what one causes for their family isn't trouble, but worry."

If I continued holding back out of fear of "causing trouble," it would eventually end up causing worry instead.

Therefore, with family... with him, who was my family, I would not hold back.

"In my heart, Souta-kun is already my family. We spoke about supporting each other and becoming happy together, after all."

When I said that—Mother wore a blank look for a moment, before suddenly bursting into tears.

"You really found such a wonderful girl, Souta... Your mother is so happy."

"Wha—Mom?!"

Mother gently patted Souta-kun's head. Souta-kun tried to pull away in embarrassment, but Mother held his shoulder with her other hand so he couldn't escape.

"That's not fair! I want to pat Souta's head too!"

"You already got a hug from Souta earlier!"

After that, Souta-kun's hair was thoroughly tousled by Mother. This time, Souta-kun looked even more embarrassed than before. Perhaps realizing this, Mother let the storm subside after about ten seconds.

The closeness of their family was even more evident now than when they had visited Souta-kun's apartment before. Back then, they might have held back a little with each other. As I smiled at the heartwarming sight, Father looked over at me.

"Nagi-chan, thank you. Thanks to you, Souta has started showing us such wonderful smiles."

His voice was incredibly gentle. Souta-kun's kind tone of voice was surely inherited from his father.

"I have changed thanks to Souta-kun as well. Right now, having Souta-kun by my side, having friends... I am truly, truly so happy."

When I paused in my steps, the other three stopped as well. I had debated whether to say this after arriving, but felt that now was the right moment.

"There was something I forgot to convey when the two of you visited previously."

I looked steadily at Souta-kun's father and mother.

"Souta-kun has helped me so very, very much."

Even the catalyst for our meeting was Souta-kun saving me. Becoming close with Hayama-san afterward was thanks to Souta-kun's advice... and teaching each other during our studies. He truly helped me countless times.

"The fact that Souta-kun has grown into such a kind and dependable person is partly due to his own natural character, I believe. However, the influence of being raised by the two of you was immensely significant. Meeting you in person made me feel that deeply."

And, if the two of them hadn't been there—Souta-kun would never have been born.

"Therefore, thank you very much. For raising Souta-kun into such an upright person."

Having forgotten to say this before, it had weighed on my mind for a long time. Naturally, I was immensely grateful to Souta-kun and expressed it as much as possible. However, opportunities to convey this to Souta-kun's parents were precious.

Upon hearing my words, Souta-kun's parents—wore gentle, soft smiles.

"You're very welcome."

"You're very welcome."

Those were the words that had connected him and me. A feeling of joy welled up inside me. Then, Mother offered a mischievous grin.

"Well then, now that we've received your thanks, Nagi-chan. Thank you once again, Nagi-chan. For being together with Souta."

"Y-You're very welcome."

Though I stumbled slightly, I replied, causing Mother to laugh happily. Beside her, Father was looking at Souta-kun with a smirk.

"Ever since Souta met Nagi-chan, he's sounded so happy whenever he talks about her. I mean... it was the very first time Souta ever talked about a girl, after all."

Souta-kun's shoulders jerked at Father's words.

"Well, that was true starting from the day he met Nagi-chan, right? But even before that, a little after school started, he was already talking about Nagi-chan—"

"D-Dad. That's enough..."

Souta-kun cut him off midway. However, I was intensely curious about the rest.

Souta-kun had been aware of me before that day....Well, no. Since we rode in the same train car and I had always felt his gaze, I knew he was aware of me, but...

He had talked about me to his parents. That made me incredibly happy. I couldn't help staring intently at Souta-kun.

"..."

Souta-kun quickly averted his gaze.

I continued to stare intently at Souta-kun.

"............"

Souta-kun's cheeks flushed red, and he scratched his face with a finger.

I continued to stare, intently and unwaveringly, at Souta-kun.

".................."

Still, I kept staring—

"...I-It's not something to talk about outside. I'll tell you after we get home."

"Yay!"

I involuntarily pumped my small fist in celebration.

Catching sight of Mother and Father watching us with warm, amused expressions, I snapped back to reality and cleared my throat.

Then, taking Souta-kun's hand, I changed the subject and started chatting.

Talking as we walked, we quickly arrived at the coin-operated parking lot. There, we boarded Father's car and headed toward the house.

"...I did tell you we could take the train closer to the house, you know."

"What do you take your father for?! I couldn't bear to wait even a single minute or second longer to see you two!"

"I figured you'd say that."

Souta-kun let out a sigh. The gesture was unusual for him... and slightly amusing, making me laugh once more.

Looking at me, Souta-kun seemed a little pouted. But he wasn't genuinely angry.

He gently offered his hand, and I took it. Intertwining our fingers so I could feel his warmth even more strongly.

Seeing Souta-kun looking slightly sulky was also a rare sight. Today was full of rare sides of Souta-kun, making it so much fun.

I turned my gaze outside.

Scenery I had never seen before....Naturally, since I rarely traveled far except for classical Japanese dance performances, everything felt novel.

"There are still quite a few buildings around here, but compared to Tokyo, there's nothing terribly exciting, is there? As we get closer to the house, there will be even fewer buildings. Though it's not quite the deep countryside."

"It's scenery I don't normally see, so just looking at it is fun."

Shopping streets, private shops, parks, and lakes. Every single thing felt fresh. Tokyo had those too, but the storefronts and scale were entirely different.

"Fufu. Then be sure to visit various places with Souta. Like Souta's old schools."

"I would love to visit them!"

Souta-kun's alma maters... meaning his middle school and elementary school.

I wanted to see them. The places where he had spent his youth. Though going inside might be difficult.

"Well... sure, that's fine with me. I wanted to see them after so long, too. Come to think of it, Dad. I heard a shopping mall opened in the fall."

"Ah! That's right! It opened! I went once with your mother, and the crowd was unbelievable. Why don't you go hang out there with Nagi-chan?"

"Sounds good... Want to go check it out, then?"

My eyes met Souta-kun's, and I nodded repeatedly.

It felt like there would be so, so many fun things to do.

Since we were here—I wanted to learn so much more about Souta-kun.

And grow even closer to him.

Holding Souta-kun's hand, I looked at him. Doing so naturally softened my cheeks into a smile. Souta-kun returned a gentle smile as he looked at me, filling my heart with immense happiness.

◆◆◆

After driving for a while, the car pulled into the parking space of a certain house.

Carrying my suitcase, I stepped out of the car and took in the view of the house.

"So this is your home, Souta-kun."

It was a lovely, two-story detached house.

"It's completely tiny compared to your house, though, Nagi."

"I love it because it feels so warm."

My house might have been a bit too spacious. To the point where it couldn't function without housekeepers. I had heard Father bought it for business reasons, to demonstrate authority. Since guests occasionally visited our home, an impressive house was necessary for such occasions.

Halting that train of thought, I looked at Souta-kun's family home once more.

The house where Souta-kun grew up. There was no way I could dislike it. Even setting that aside, I genuinely thought it was a wonderful home.

Next to the entrance were several small potted plants, with pansies in bloom. If I recalled correctly, they were flowers that were resilient against the cold.

"It's Mom's hobby. Growing flowers."

"That's right. I grow them in the back and display seasonal flowers by the entrance like this. It's quite fun."

"I think it's a very lovely hobby. I practice flower arrangement a little myself, so I love flowers."

"Oh my! That's wonderful! Sometime, I'd love for you to teach me good flower combinations!"

"Of course."

Flowers were so very lovely. They made one want to gaze at them forever. Making that promise with Mother... and thinking about wanting to look at them together with Souta-kun later, Mother opened the front door.

"Well then, once again—"

The two of them stepped into the entryway, turned around toward us, and spoke.

"Welcome home, Souta. Welcome, Nagi-chan."

"Welcome home, and welcome. Please, both of you, make yourselves completely at home."

The two of them spoke in unison. Souta-kun let out a soft laugh.

"I'm home."

A quiet... yet deeply emotional murmur. A warm light shone in his eyes, and his expression was gentle. He looked truly happy.

"I will be in your care for a short while."

I offered a slight bow. In response, the two of them gave us wonderful smiles... beaming broadly.

"Next time, I'll be saying 'Welcome home' to you too, Nagi-chan!"

"Once you become Souta's bride, you're already family. Please don't hold back, and make yourself at home as if this were your own house....It might be difficult at first, but in time."

Those words, once again, brought me so much joy.

"Yes!"

I gave a firm, resolute nod.

◆◆◆

Creak, creak. A small sound echoed with each step up the stairs. Mother had told us, "Why don't you wash your hands and put your luggage away first?" At that time, she had asked one more question.

"Where would you like to sleep? We have a guest room open, though."

"I will stay in Souta-kun's room."

I had replied immediately. It was something I had decided from the start.

"Ah— Just so you know, the bed in my room is small, okay? It's a single bed."

"T-That means we can sleep even closer together, right?"

If it was smaller than the bed we usually used... I could feel Souta-kun from even closer.

"In that case, y-you are more than welcome to."

Hearing my words... Souta-kun's face flushed red.

"I see."

His quietly muttered words held not a shred of rejection. That made me happy all over again.

We climbed the rest of the stairs and reached the closest room. Souta-kun opened the door.

"So this is your room, Souta-kun."

"Yeah. It feels cramped compared to the bedroom in my apartment, though. I've got all sorts of stuff stored here."

Just as Souta-kun said, the room seemed a little smaller compared to the one in Tokyo.

A bed, a study desk. Two closets and a bookshelf. Even so, it wasn't cramped by any means.

"Well, it's not like we'll be staying in this room from morning to night anyway. We can study at a cafe or a library, and we can do our winter break assignments there too. Just bear with it for a bit."

"No, I was the one who insisted on this room. I have no complaints whatsoever. Besides, sharing a room like this will be good experience."

Someday, I would live in the same house as Souta-kun....I understood that it wouldn't be purely smooth sailing. Living together would surely bring about various challenges.

If so, sharing a room together now would surely serve as good experience....Though since I frequently slept in Souta-kun's bed back in Tokyo anyway, it might not be all that different.

"Alright. Also, that closet over there is probably for you, Nagi. The one I used to use is this one."

"D-Did they prepare it for me?!"

"Probably. I'm pretty sure I've seen that closet in the storage room before....Let's go thank Dad and Mom later."

"Yes!"

Replying to Souta-kun, I unpacked my things. That said, I didn't have very much. Just a change of clothes, daily essentials, and study materials.

Having put everything away, I took a breath.

"Feel free to use the desk and bookshelf as you like, too."

"Y-Yes....Is that really alright?"

"Hm? Yeah. Use them however you want."

After glancing at Souta-kun... I looked at the bookshelf.

"A-Are you truly sure it's alright?"

"Hm? Of course."

"...Are there any books... you wouldn't want seen?"

"T-There aren't! There really aren't!"

Souta-kun frantically shook his head....Are there really none?

Come to think of it, I didn't think there were any such things in his apartment either....I had wondered if he was just very good at hiding them, though.

"I-I don't have stuff like that. Besides, I wouldn't leave things like that behind when my parents live here."

"...I see. I apologize for asking such an indelicate question."

Since it concerned personal privacy, it was careless of me to ask.

"N-No, it's fine. I was just a little surprised....To hear something like that from you, Nagi."

"I asked Hayama-san and Nishizawa-san. They told me one could investigate someone's tastes through such things."

"Those two..."

"They also mentioned that rather than under the bed, it's better to check if drawers have false bottoms, or inspect books by removing their dust jackets."

"That's oddly specific. What on earth are they teaching you... Just to be clear, there's nothing like that, okay?"

Judging by his reaction, there truly didn't seem to be anything. As Nishizawa-san had suggested, perhaps he was a digital reader rather than a paper one.

Since going through his smartphone without permission was out of the question, I decided to leave it at that.

Looking around the room, my eyes landed on the study desk. Several photo frames were displayed there.

"Hm... Ah. Those are entrance and graduation ceremony photos from elementary and middle school."

"You're so cute. The Souta-kun back then, too."

In elementary school, he was still small and adorable. In middle school, a sense of innocence still lingered.

However—

"The current Souta-kun is cool and cute, you know?"

It was difficult to put into words properly, but...

"Because the current Souta-kun is the one I love the most."

I didn't want to hide my feelings of love. It was a little embarrassing, but if I didn't put it into words, it wouldn't be conveyed....When I looked it up previously, failing to communicate affection could apparently even lead to late-life divorces. Because love could cool down easily.

Therefore, I made it a point to tell Souta-kun I loved him at least once a day.

...Please forgive me if I ended up saying it multiple times in the heat of the moment. Saying it just once left me unsatisfied. Besides, whenever I said it, Souta-kun would always reply that he loved me too, which made me so happy.

"T-That aside. I do find myself wishing I could have known you when you were younger, though."

Letting the heat in my cheeks dissipate, I conveyed this to Souta-kun.

"...Yeah."

Souta-kun gave a soft laugh and looked at the photos while sitting on the bed.

Suddenly, I felt like asking him something.

"Souta-kun, do you have a moment?"

"What is it?"

Since I had come all the way to Souta-kun's hometown, I wanted to learn more about him. We would have to discuss what to do today once we finished unpacking, so I couldn't ask in great depth right now, but...

"How did you usually spend your days off back then?"

"...Let's see. When I was little, I'd go play at the neighborhood park with Dad. By the time I entered middle school, our family would go see movies or go fishing together."

Hearing about days off that were so fitting of Souta-kun in the best way, a smile slipped from the corners of my mouth.

"You really love Father and Mother, don't you, Souta-kun?"

"...Yeah. I won't deny it. Though the amount of love they return can be a bit overwhelming at times."

"Fufu."

Remembering their interactions from earlier, I couldn't help giggling.

"Well, the fact that they care about me is undeniable. My dad was a bit overbearing, which was part of why I went to that high school in Tokyo, but in a way, even that was him looking out for me."

"...May I hear more about that?"

Hearing this for the first time, I tilted my head. At the same time, I remembered that I had never asked in depth about why he chose to attend that high school.

"Yeah. I guess I haven't told you yet. If I went to school nearby, he could easily come visit anytime. Besides, I wanted a change of environment. I thought that if the place changed, I might be able to make friends....There were other things Mom and Dad did for me as well, and in the end, it turned out to be the right choice."

He was probably referring to Makisaka-kun. That was true, I nodded in agreement.

"Dad actually had an acquaintance around that area. A former police officer, and I was told I could rely on him if anything happened. It's not like he lived within a few minutes' walk, and I haven't seen him much, though. Just the occasional message asking if I'm doing alright."

"So that was the reason."

The mystery was solved, leaving me refreshed.

"Because I was going to live alone, Mom taught me all sorts of housework....Though cooking just didn't suit me."

That explained why his apartment was always so tidy.

As I nodded repeatedly in understanding, Souta-kun smiled. His ears were faintly red.

"There were plenty of tough times, but so many good things happened too. Making friends with Eiji was one... but meeting you, Nagi, was the biggest."

Looking a little embarrassed, Souta-kun scratched his cheek. Yet, his gaze remained fixed straight on me.

Heat spread across my cheeks. Along with it, a wave of happiness welled up inside me...

"Ehehe."

My expression completely melted into a grin. Realizing I was showing an unsightly face, I covered it with my hands.

"I am so glad I met you too, Souta-kun."

I sat down on the bed beside him and leaned against Souta-kun.

I could smell Souta-kun's scent. My favorite scent.

"...Souta-kun. May I?"

When I loved someone so much that the word "love" wasn't enough. Words were insufficient, so I had to express it with my body.

"...Yeah."

The moment Souta-kun gave his consent, I threw my arms around him.

I loved cuddling tightly with Souta-kun. Because I could feel him with my whole body.

Naturally, Souta-kun wrapped his arms around me in return....I truly loved him so much.

"I love you, Souta-kun."

"...I love you too."

Souta-kun responded to the words that had spilled from my lips.

Then, I pressed my lips against Souta-kun's. A sweet tingle, like tasting fruit or a confection, surged through my body. The blend of joy and deep affection caused warmth to spread throughout me.

Ah, this. I couldn't stop....I didn't want to stop.

"I love you. I love you so very much, Souta-kun. I am so truly glad to have met you."

A kiss of mere touch. A simple one, like a parent giving a child. Yet that alone filled my heart to the brim with happiness.

If we were to go beyond this... I felt an anxious fear that I might break from sheer bliss.

Even so, the happiness was unstoppable.

Naturally, I aligned my palm against Souta-kun's. Having moved my hands from his back to his shoulders, holding his hand was effortless.

Souta-kun squeezed my hand tightly. Parting my lips only for the brief moment needed to breathe, I applied pressure to our palms and pressed our lips together once more.

Souta-kun's eyes were gentle, yet they seemed to be trying to convey something.

Just a little more—just a little longer.

Right as I thought that. Click. The door opened.

The sudden sound froze my body completely.

"You must be thirsty, right? I brought some drin... ks... oh my."

Tentatively looking back... Mother was standing there.

"Oh dear, oh dear. Forgive me. So that's why there was no answer when I knocked."

She had knocked. Those words traveled from my ears to my brain, echoing through my mind.

...Only now did I realize that Souta-kun holding my hand and trying to say something had been about that.

"I'll just leave the drinks here....Please take your time, alright?"

Quickly placing the drinks on the desk, Mother slipped out of the room.

Watching her leave—all the blood drained from my face in an instant.

"I-I-I-I'm so sorry, Souta-kun!"

"...Well. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I had a feeling something like this might happen. It's alright."

I had done something terrible. Yet Souta-kun gently patted my head.

Reflecting on my actions, I decided then and there that kissing should be reserved for bedtime or when the two of us were truly alone in the house.

◆◇◆

"I-I'm so sorry. Truly. I'm so sorry."

"I can't really tell you not to worry about it, but... well, knowing Mom, it'll be fine."

Nagi looked thoroughly dejected, apologizing non-stop for a while now....Part of it was probably because she wasn't the type to make mistakes like this.

"B-But... still."

Granted, it wasn't as if Nagi was entirely without fault. The footsteps and knock had been clearly audible.

However...

"I didn't stop you either, after all."

Putting aside the excuse that clumsily interrupting might have hurt her feelings...

It was simply because Nagi was so cute... and I wanted to see more of her like that. Being sought after made me happy, and I wanted to keep looking at her adorable self. I hadn't been able to bring myself to stop her.

"U-Uuu..."

However, Nagi's face only burned a deeper shade of crimson. It seemed my only option was to change the subject.

Wondering what to bring up, I remembered something. What we had talked about on our way here.

"Come to think of it, Nagi."

"Y-Yes. What is it?"

When I called her name, Nagi straightened her posture into a stiff, formal sitting position on the bed.

Chuckling wryly at the sight, I reached out and placed my hand on her head.

"...I fell in love with you at first sight, Nagi."

Nagi's eyes went wide for an instant—and whoosh, her fair skin flushed bright red.

"U-Um...? W-What do you mean?"

"The first time I noticed you was on the day of the entrance ceremony....It might sound creepy, but starting the next day, I found my eyes following you wherever you went."

Flustered, Nagi's face grew increasingly red.

Seeing emotions other than confusion and embarrassment in her expression brought me relief... and I continued.

"My first impression was... that you were an incredibly beautiful person. More beautiful... than anyone I had ever seen."

"U-Ah... U-Um. Thank you, very much."

Nagi, with her face bright red, was immensely adorable as well. I had assumed she was used to being called beautiful or cute... but perhaps that wasn't the case. She had been treated like an unattainable flower at school, after all.

"Ehehe."

Placing her hands on her cheeks, Nagi began to smile happily. It seemed the incident from earlier had completely vanished from her mind, which was a relief.

"Originally, I didn't really understand what it felt like to like someone... but I think that was love at first sight. Of course, after that, I saw your good qualities... watching you caution students to give up their seats for the elderly, or smiling at babies. As I learned about your personality bit by bit, I became more and more interested."

Eiji had told me that over and over again. And he had been entirely right.

"I-I... was aware of you too, Souta-kun, you know?"

"...? You were?"

"Y-Yes."

To think Nagi had known about me... No, wait.

"Now that I think about it, there were barely any other high school students around us, were there?"

"That's true... I treated them a bit harshly, but their ulterior motives were completely transparent."

Hearing those words, I recalled something that had always puzzled me.

"Come to think of it, you used to push away everyone who approached you, whether they were guys or girls, didn't you?"

"Yes. Something happened back in middle school. It made me sensitive to people's ill intentions, or rather, obvious hidden motives. Plus, there were people who directed unpleasant gazes at me. Those people were entirely out of the question."

My cheek twitched at her final words.

However, Nagi frantically waved her hands and shook her head back and forth. Since my hand was still resting on her head, the brushing of her hair tickled slightly.

"N-No! You were different, Souta-kun! Um, I didn't mind people looking at my face at all... but almost everyone let their gaze wander below my neck."

"Ah... I see."

Nagi had a great figure. Even setting aside nationality or where she grew up, her biological parent wasn't Japanese, likely originating from somewhere in the West.

Of course, her figure was one of her charms, but it was merely one aspect.

"Because of that, I actually wanted to try talking to you at least once, Souta-kun....Though I couldn't work up the courage until that day."

"I-Is that so?"

My face began to feel hot. Perhaps the heater I turned on earlier was working too well.

Thinking that, I stroked Nagi's head repeatedly to brush off the embarrassment. As I did, she took hold of my hand.

"...A-Also."

Nagi squeezed my hand tightly... intertwining her fingers with mine.

Her blue eyes stared intently into mine—

"I-If it's you, Souta-kun... I wouldn't mind no matter how much you look....I-It's alright, you know? Even places other than my face. If you want to see, Souta-kun."

A choked sound almost escaped my throat.

"I-If you'd like... y-you can even touch."

"N-Nagi....Anything more than that is getting dangerous in a lot of ways."

I was pulled toward her. As my hand was about to be pressed against... well, the part of her where her heartbeat could be felt most strongly, I hurriedly spoke up.

The thread of my self-control was screaming in protest. A tiny push would snap it completely.

"...T-That's true. Especially after what just happened."

"Y-Yeah... exactly."

Mom probably wouldn't come back, but imagining Dad coming in was terrifying. He might serve celebratory red bean rice for dinner, or go out and buy relationship-harmony amulets.

"Um... S-Souta-kun. There was one more thing I wanted to ask."

"What is it?"

Before we could dwell on what had just happened, Nagi changed the subject.

"Why... did you save me back then, Souta-kun? Um, neither when you saved me nor afterward did I feel any ulterior motives from you."

"Why, huh?"

I hesitated for a moment, wondering if she would be disillusioned.

However, I reconsidered, feeling it was better to be honest about these things. Holding Nagi's hand, I looked into her blue eyes.

"As thanks, I guess."

"...? As thanks?"

"Yeah. Because I received energy from seeing you every day... it was my way of thanking you. To put it the other way around—if we truly had no connection at all, I don't think I would have saved you."

Even back then, I had hesitated about whether to step in. Without that extra push, I would have—

"Fufu."

Hearing her soft chuckle, my face, which had been cast downward, lifted up.

"So that was why. What a relief."

Nagi offered a gentle smile... and leaned against me.

Nagi was in my arms. Her warmth radiated through my entire body... and she looked up at me with upturned eyes. Without letting go of my hand, Nagi spoke softly.

"I couldn't really bring myself to believe in 'unconditional goodwill.' No, that's not quite accurate. As I mentioned earlier, many people approached me with ulterior motives... but so many of them wore a mask of goodwill. That was why I had always wondered what your intentions were, Souta-kun. I had completely missed the chance to ask, though."

Saying that, Nagi embraced me tightly.

"That makes sense to me....And it makes me so very happy."

Nagi smiled softly.

"I don't think there are many girls who wouldn't be happy to have their appearance praised by the person they love....Especially when I know it comes from your heart, Souta-kun."

In my mind, Nagi had been an unattainable flower... someone completely out of reach. But that had merely been in my imagination. The real Nagi struggled with interpersonal relationships, yet she was clingy... and loved her family deeply.

It was true that I loved Nagi's appearance. But the more I learned about her... about her inner self, the more I fell in love with her.

My eyes met her blue ones... and Nagi beamed brightly.

"Still, that aside. I believe the current you would help anyone who was in trouble and experiencing something similar, even if it wasn't me, Souta-kun."

"...Why do you think that?"

"Because you are so very strict with yourself, Souta-kun."

Her other hand was gently placed against my chest.

"You want to become someone worthy of standing beside me, don't you? Even if it feels a bit presumptuous of me to say."

Nagi's hand gently slid from my chest... down to touch my stomach. It tickled a little.

"...Your body has become much firmer than before."

"Y-You noticed?"

—Ever since I started getting involved with Nagi, I had begun working out little by little. So that I could become someone who wouldn't feel ashamed standing beside her.

"Fufu. I love you so much that I watch you closely, Souta-kun. You were much more slender before, weren't you?"

"Y-Yeah, I guess..."

Facing her straightforward words, I instinctively looked away. But merely looking away wasn't enough to dodge Nagi's follow-up.

"I notice all of your changes, Souta-kun....I can even tell that your heart is beating faster right now."

My heart pounded like an alarm bell. Knowing she could hear it made the heat in my cheeks flare even hotter.

...I really couldn't hide anything from Nagi. Not that I had any intention of doing so.

"That is why I know. The current Souta-kun would never ignore someone crying out for help. In fact, you wouldn't be able to. Though I wouldn't want you getting caught up in dangerous situations....Well, I think the past Souta-kun would have saved them anyway, though."

"...Why do you think that?"

"Because I've come to know you, Souta-kun."

She poked my stomach gently. When I returned my gaze, her blue eyes were gazing up at me with pure happiness.

"You are a kind person with a strong sense of responsibility, Souta-kun. If a girl was being mistreated right before your eyes, you aren't the kind of person who could just overlook it. Even if you don't believe in yourself, Souta-kun, I believe in you."

Hearing Nagi's words... I couldn't find the right words to reply. I didn't think I was heartless enough to flatly deny it. But calling myself a brave man was... well, no.

"...I guess you're right."

If Nagi believed in me, I would believe in myself too. Regardless, if someone was having a terrible time right in front of me in the future, I was certain I would step in to help.

"Yes! Therefore, there is no need to worry about it."

Watching Nagi smile so brightly... my own expression softened more and more.

Truly—

"I'm so glad I met you, Nagi. I mean that from the bottom of my heart."

Thanks to meeting Nagi, I had changed tremendously. Mentally, academically, and above all else.

"Every day has become so much fun."

"Me too."

Gently loosening her embrace, Nagi looked up and brought her face closer to mine.

She had such a beautiful face. Her eyes were blue, and her fair skin was completely smooth. Every time her silky hair swayed, it made me want to reach out and touch it.

She carried an ethereal aura, looking as though she might be mistaken for a fairy if found in a forest. But that wasn't all. She was incredibly expressive and adorable.

"Meeting you, Souta-kun, is the best thing that has happened in my entire life. I can declare that with certainty."

Our lips gently touched. A different kind of euphoria from earlier sent a tingle through my brain.

"I love you, Souta-kun."

"...I love you too."

This time, I was the one to initiate the kiss... and the two of us spent a leisurely, gentle time together.

We talked about things from our pasts that we had never shared before, feeling as though we had grown one step closer once again.

◆◆◆

"I'm gonna head to the convenience store for a bit."

"Shall I come along with you?"

I suddenly felt like having a carbonated drink, but apparently, we didn't have any at home. I mentioned going to the convenience store, and Nagi asked if she should join.

"Hmm... what to do. I was thinking of taking a bit of a walk on the way. It's getting late in the afternoon to go anywhere far, though."

"Come to think of it, that's true....In that case, perhaps I'll chat with Mother and Father for a little while. I would love to hear stories about you from Mother's perspective, Souta-kun."

My cheek twitched slightly at Nagi's words. But... Nagi getting along with Mom and Dad was a good thing. Besides, they'd end up telling her eventually. Trying to hold her back here wouldn't accomplish much.

"...Yeah, good idea. There are probably things I don't even remember myself."

"Yes! I'll be sure to listen to all sorts of stories!"

Nodding at Nagi's words, I grabbed my bag. Since I hadn't changed into loungewear yet, I was ready to head out as is.

Heading downstairs, I let Mom and Dad know. After brushing off Dad, who tried to tag along, I walked toward the front entrance, only for Nagi to follow along behind me with light, pattering steps.

"Have a safe trip."

"Yeah, I'm heading out."

Putting on my shoes, I said that to Nagi... when she gently tugged at my sleeve. Wondering what was up, I leaned closer, and the next instant—a sweet fragrance wafted past, and something sweet and soft touched my lips.

"Ehehe. A goodbye kiss."

Cheeks flushed red, Nagi smiled shyly... I almost hugged her right then and there, but stopped myself upon noticing two pairs of eyes peeking out from further inside.

When I glared in their direction, the two of them quickly retreated into the living room.

"Please take care on your way."

"Yeah. Don't push yourself too hard either, Nagi."

"Yes!"

Taking just this moment out of context, we practically felt like a real married couple.

With that thought in mind, I stepped out of the house.

Even though it was cold outside, my heart felt cozy and warm.

"...Hasn't changed a bit."

Well, it hadn't even been six months since summer break, so that was only natural.

The convenience store wasn't nearby. It wasn't terribly far either, but if Nagi was listening to stories from Mom and Dad, taking a little extra time wouldn't hurt. Maybe I'd take a walk, check out the park, and head to the convenience store a bit further away.

...I'd probably visit these places together with Nagi tomorrow and onward, but I wanted to take a look on my own first.

With that, I began walking at a relaxed pace.

Neither completely rural nor urban. Leaning toward the countryside, but a slightly half-baked townscape for that.

I loved this town. Being my hometown, that was probably a given.

Even with the cold wind, the scarf and gloves I got from Nagi kept the chill at bay. Foot traffic was sparse, but not nonexistent.

The roadside trees were all nostalgic. I had seen them half a year ago, but changes in season brought changes in appearance.

The once lush green trees had dropped all their leaves, leaving only bare branches. The chorus of cicadas was long gone, replaced only by the whistling wind and the occasional voice of passersby.

I wondered if this was what people meant by feeling nostalgic.

Walking along with those thoughts, I soon arrived at the convenience store....Being about a fifteen-minute walk away, it wasn't really that far.

There, I bought a carbonated drink... and feeling a wave of nostalgia, a can of coffee as well. I used to buy coffee here all the time.

After buying those, I walked a little further and arrived at the park. Being the end of the year and quite chilly, there were no children playing.

"No... is this the reason?"

A sign had been put up near the entrance of the park. Coming here... or rather, even when I came here in the past, I had never paid close attention, so I hadn't noticed it.

[Ball games and loud noises strictly prohibited! It causes a disturbance to neighborhood residents!]

"...Stuff like this is probably why kids don't play outside anymore."

Having played catch and various games with my dad here when I was little, seeing that sign made me feel a bit lonely.

Stepping into the park, I sat down on a bench.

"It's really chilly today."

Even with the scarf and gloves, the temperature was undeniably low. It was around the time the sun was setting, after all.

Opening the coffee I had just bought, I took a sip. The bitterness and acidity spreading across my palate felt oddly nostalgic.

Seeing my dad drink coffee on this bench looked so cool that I had tried copying him back in sixth grade. I had bought it at that very convenience store.

It was way too bitter at first, so I gave up. Dad had laughed and finished the rest for me.

Yet, desperately wanting to be able to drink it, I started with cafe au lait.

First, I practiced making cafe au lait at home with heaps of milk and sugar. Then, I gradually reduced the amount of milk and sugar... and by the time I entered my third year of middle school, I was able to drink black coffee.

Since drinking too much wasn't good for health, I only drank it a few times a month, though.

"...I want to come here with Nagi."

Catching myself muttering that out loud, I let out a wry chuckle.

...I had really become unable to function without Nagi, hadn't I? Even though I had thought I wanted to visit alone.

"We've been spending most of our time together, after all."

Setting aside school hours, recently, whenever Nagi came over, it turned into a sleepover at a pretty high rate. When that happened, we were basically in the same room the entire time.

When we were together, Nagi stayed close. If I sat on the sofa, she'd sit right next to me; if I sat on the carpet using the sofa as a backrest, she'd come sit right beside me.

Then she'd lean against my shoulder—

"...Reminiscing about this all by myself is definitely creepy. Let's think about something else."

Correcting my thoughts, I took another sip of the still-warm coffee. The sky was overcast with clouds.

As I was staring blankly at the surroundings—I saw a group of boys who looked like high school students walking over.

...I have a bad feeling about this.

Seeing faces that looked vaguely familiar, I lowered my head to make it harder for them to see me.

If it was just my imagination, great. If not—I hoped they wouldn't notice me.

"...Huh? Isn't that Minori?"

Hearing that voice, I let out a heavy sigh.

◆◇◆

"—And that's how it happened. That's how Souta became able to drink black coffee."

"That sounds just like Souta-kun. Souta-kun copying his father... is rather cute."

I was listening to stories about Souta-kun from Father and Mother in the living room. Right now, it was the story of how Souta-kun learned to drink black coffee.

"He really did love his father so much back then. Once he entered middle school, he started disliking being clingy, though... which is why Father trying to cling to him earlier really wasn't a good idea."

"I am truly reflecting on that matter."

At Mother's words, Father sat in a formal posture and bowed his head....Despite the lighthearted tone, his expression was serious, showing it came from the heart.

"Souta-kun choosing that high school was also for that reason, wasn't it?"

"Yes, that's right. One of the reasons....We hesitated until the very end, though. Living alone starting from high school is quite early, after all."

"...That is true."

Living alone as a high school student was difficult. While parents provided financial support, without moderation and planning, one would run out of money quickly. Moreover, daily living was especially challenging. If Souta-kun had been bad at cleaning and couldn't do any housework, his apartment would have been a disaster....Even Souta-kun seemed unable to manage cooking properly.

"That boy has always been reliable. Mature, or perhaps mentally grown-up... which might have been precisely why he couldn't make friends."

"...!"

"Oh dear, I shouldn't be making assumptions like that while he's not around. Later... if he feels like talking about it, try asking him. It's likely something even we don't know."

"Please leave it to me."

Something even Mother and Father didn't know....I would have to listen with an open, prepared heart.

"Let's get back on topic. The reason Souta started living alone."

Switching my train of thought, I nodded. I was curious about this part as well.

"If he hadn't been reliable... if he had been the kind of child who couldn't keep things tidy, I wouldn't have given permission."

"But he was capable."

"Exactly. We decided to watch how things went, and if he showed even the slightest sign of pushing himself too hard, we'd discuss having him come back....I can't say I wasn't looking for an excuse to stop him, though."

"Yet, far from pushing himself too hard, he even made friends."

"Yes. At the very least, he seemed to be enjoying himself more than when he was here."

I found myself agreeing with Mother's words. It wasn't that his life here had been bad... in this house, he must have felt comfortable. But his life over there was equally wonderful.

And because it contributed to his growth, Mother and Father hadn't held him back.

"In the end, we feel it was for the best. Father's overprotectiveness settled down a bit as well, after all."

"I have no excuses..."

...I see. Father seemed quite eager to be close with Souta-kun, but that was likely him holding back already.

"I knew it to some extent, but... Souta-kun had been carrying various burdens as well, hadn't he?"

Learning a little more about Souta-kun made me feel that anew.

I had experienced many things in my own life as well. In the first place, I was adopted, and I didn't even know the faces of my birth parents. The parents who took me in were famous figures in industries related to kimonos, traditional Japanese performing arts, and culture. I myself had started lessons in classical Japanese dance and other arts to fulfill Papa's dream.

However, it was the same. Souta-kun had his own life. The stories I had just heard were merely a fraction of his journey.

As I pondered this, Mother gave a gentle chuckle.

"I am truly so glad that you are Souta's girlfriend and fiancee, Nagi-chan."

"W-What brought this on so suddenly?"

"It just makes me so happy that you care about Souta that much. I'm certain that with you, Nagi-chan, the two of you will find immense happiness together."

Mother reached out—and placed her hand on my head. A way of patting that was so similar to Souta-kun's... no. Souta-kun must have learned this way of patting from her.

"Please take good care of that boy. He's serious, kind, and has a strong sense of responsibility. He's mature... but because of that, he has a habit of shouldering things all on his own."

"Please leave it to me. We will definitely become happy together."

"Yes. We're looking forward to the wedding... and to seeing our grandchildren's faces, too, alright?"

My body jolted at Mother's words....G-Grandchildren.

"I-I will do my best."

"Yes....Though, while you're still in high school, you know? I'm sure you'll be fine, but I'll make sure to remind Souta properly as well."

Mother whispered softly into my ear. Overcome with embarrassment... all I could do was nod with a bright red face.

◆◆◆

"...Thank goodness."

After talking a bit more, Mother had asked me, "I'm going to start preparing dinner, but would you like to stay in the living room? Or head back to the room?" After a moment's hesitation, I had returned to the room.

Part of it was wanting some alone time. Today had been full of new experiences, leaving me slightly tired. Naturally, the fun far outweighed the fatigue, though.

And then... just a little. Because I wanted to stretch out my body just a bit, I lay down on the bed.

The moment I did—my face instantly heated up.

"I-It smells so strongly of Souta-kun."

A sense of security, just like when I slept together with Souta-kun, washed over me. Knowing Mother and Father, they surely washed and aired the bedding properly, but...

...Even so, it smelled so strongly of Souta-kun. A comforting, reassuring scent.

"...W-What am I doing?"

Before I knew it, I was practically rolling over onto my stomach. This wasn't good....Not good at all.

B-But. Just a little.

Burying my face into his pillow... I pulled the blanket over myself.

"—Haah."

A strange sound almost escaped my lips, and I clamped my mouth shut.

...This. This was incredible. It felt just like being embraced by Souta-kun.

At the same time, the feelings I had kept locked away until now burst forth.

"...I want to see Souta-kun."

I had heard stories about Souta-kun. Not everything, of course. There were surely many things Souta-kun hadn't shared yet.

Yet—hearing those stories simply made me want to hug Souta-kun tightly.

I wanted to hug Souta-kun and pat his head. I wanted him to pat my head. I wanted to praise him and tell him how hard he had worked. And I wanted to thank him once more for saving me in the midst of all those hardships.

"...Souta-kun."

Pressing my face firmly into the pillow, I wrapped the blanket tightly around myself.

"...I wonder if he'll be back soon."

Contrary to such longing thoughts, burying my face in the pillow like this naturally caused my cheeks to soften into a smile.

Knowing it was unbecoming, I continued rolling around and enjoying myself, letting time pass naturally.

Right then, I noticed footsteps moving away from outside the room and heading downstairs. A terribly, terribly bad premonition struck me. I sat up abruptly. Straining my ears, faint voices drifted up.

"Oh? Souta, weren't you going to put your things away in your room?"

...Did he see me?

My face burned painfully hot. Because, just now. If he had seen that—

"I-It's a misunderstanding! Souta-kun!"

In Souta-kun's room... um, well. He would think I had turned into a pervert just because Souta-kun wasn't around!

Without thinking, I ended up crying out.

◆◇◆

"I-I-I-It's a, it's a misunderstanding! U-Um, you see! I-It's true that I was rolling around on the bed while you were gone, enjoying your scent like a pervert, Souta-kun! B-But I wasn't doing anything indecent, like a massive pervert!"

As I was wondering how to explain things to Mom, Nagi rushed down... grabbed my hand, and dragged me back to the room.

And with her face flushed crimson, she rattled all of that off in a frantic flurry.

Apparently, the upgraded version of a pervert was a "massive pervert." My focus shifted to that distinction, and I couldn't help laughing.

"It's alright. I didn't misunderstand anything....Uh, you see. I knocked and didn't get an answer... and had a weird feeling, so I didn't go in."

I had reached the point of placing my hand on the doorknob, but remembering Mom walking in earlier, I had decided against it.

"I thought if you were asleep, it'd be bad to wake you up."

"...W-Was that why?"

"Yeah....Well. I mean, you can do whatever you want in my room, really."

Nagi's face turned even redder, looking just like an apple. It seemed she had completely self-destructed.

"...Uuu."

"Just to be clear, I really don't mind at all, okay?"

I told Nagi as she covered her face with her hands, but it didn't do much good.

Then, Nagi slowly lowered her hands—and spread her arms wide.

"Please hug me tightly."

Her face was bright red from embarrassment, and a faint film of tears coated her eyes.

Seeing an expression she rarely showed made my heart thud heavily in my chest.

"..."

Nagi stared straight at me. As if having zero doubt that I would embrace her.

...Of course I was going to, though.

Spreading my arms just like her, Nagi dove right in immediately.

She hugged me tightly, so firmly and strongly. Her strength was enough to catch me slightly off guard.

Trying to ignore the soft sensation pressing against my chest, I wrapped my arms around Nagi's back and gently patted her.

Ten minutes passed like that. As time went by, Nagi seemed to calm down at last, muttering softly.

"I-I lost my composure a little. I'm sorry."

"I really don't mind."

Regardless, I was glad she had calmed down. I took off the coat I was wearing and hung it on a hanger. Right as I was doing that...

"Did something happen?"

Her words brought me to a complete halt.

"...What makes you think that?"

"No particular reason. You just seemed a little down, somehow."

Hearing that—I couldn't help letting out a laugh.

I really was no match for Nagi. Even though it had been a while since I last saw them... not even Mom and Dad had ever noticed back then.

After chuckling a bit, I let out a breath.

Nagi might end up running into them too. It was probably better to tell her.

"I ran into some acquaintances."

"Acquaintances?"

"Yeah....Just some former classmates."

Hearing my words, Nagi furrowed her brows slightly.

"They're kind of a pain to deal with....Remember how I mentioned that girls started talking to me more after the sports festival?"

"Yes."

"That was when I got singled out. It wasn't outright bullying, but they made fun of me."

After entering high school, so much had happened that I had forgotten about it... but running into them earlier brought it all rushing back.

"...Did you tell Mother and Father?"

"I didn't....Or rather, I couldn't. If I told Dad, there was no telling what he'd do. I was worried for the other guys, not Dad. Well, I didn't care all that much myself anyway... though I wouldn't be surprised if Mom and Dad vaguely sensed something."

It wasn't physical violence. My belongings... ah. They had been hidden a few times, but they were always returned after school. Insults and badmouthing weren't things I cared deeply about, either.

"..."

"You don't need to worry so much. Those guys haven't changed one bit. I never expected them to mock me for not having friends at this point, though."

Now, I had Eiji, Nagi, and everyone else. That kind of taunt dealt zero damage to me.

"Souta-kun."

Nagi called my name. Then, she sat down on the bed.

"Please come here."

Prompted by Nagi, I sat down beside her.

She pulled me close immediately. I almost fell over and tried to catch myself with my arms, but she told me, "Please relax," so I followed her lead.

With a soft poof, my face was buried in Nagi's chest.

Her sweet scent, the warmth and softness radiating from her... and the thumping of her heartbeat left me completely bewildered.

"N-Nagi?"

"I understand how you feel, Souta-kun. I didn't want to make Papa and Mama worry, either."

"..."

"Back in middle school, I made someone I could talk to a little....Though I couldn't call her a friend."

At Nagi's words, I fell silent.

"I was happy when she spoke to me. But she was dishonest... and was only after my notes and money."

"Money...?"

"Of course, I didn't lend her any. After that, she stopped talking to me... and even when I tried talking to her, she ignored me. The shock lingered for a while... which was why I kept turning down interactions with various people on the train."

"Is that... what happened?"

Surprised by an event I had never known about, a dark cloud settled over my heart.

However, Nagi giggled softly, drawing my attention back to her.

"Fufu. I don't care about it anymore, you know? Because I have you, Souta-kun, and I have Hayama-san and the others."

"...I see."

If I could have just switched gears with a simple "I see," that would have been fine, but I wasn't nimble enough to manage that.

"I feel the exact same way you do right now, Souta-kun."

"..."

I couldn't find a proper response to Nagi's words. Unable to say anything, I simply locked eyes with Nagi. After a few seconds, Nagi quickly averted her gaze.

"I'm sorry. That was a bit mischievous of me to say."

"No, it's fine."

"Because you shared your story with me, Souta-kun, I felt like sharing mine too."

Nagi met my eyes again and smiled warmly. Her slender, beautiful fingers rested on my head.

"Souta-kun."

Calling my name once more.

Her eyes were remarkably gentle, like a body of water warmed by the sunlight.

"If anything unpleasant happens, even a little, like today, please tell me."

Her hand slid down, lightly brushing against my ear.

"Please use me to forget all the unpleasant memories....I will overwrite every single one of them with happy memories."

Nagi loosened her embrace slightly. Just as I thought I had been released—she planted a kiss on my forehead, before pulling me back into her chest.

Thump, thump. Nagi's heartbeat resonated through me.

That sound, and Nagi's warmth radiating through my entire body, caused the swirling dark cloud inside me to scatter completely.

"...Thank you."

"You are very welcome."

I decided to take her up on her kind offer.

Wrapping my arms around Nagi's back, I held her close.

"...I felt a little frustrated, to be honest."

Before I realized it, words were spilling from my mouth.

"I should have just ignored them. If I didn't make waves, they'd get bored and leave. I've known that for a long time. Yet today, I caught myself asking, 'Is that really okay?'"

With the dark cloud gone, the fragility of my heart was laid bare.

I wanted to show Nagi my cool side. Yet for some reason, the words kept spilling out uncontrollably.

"'Would I feel nothing if Nagi, Eiji, and the others saw me like this?'...That's what I thought."

I felt so pathetic.

Even though I knew saying this wouldn't change anything.

Even though I knew it would only make Nagi feel bad. I felt so pathetic for being unable to stop myself.

"Souta-kun."

"In the end... I couldn't say a single thing. Not a word."

That was what frustrated me.

"Souta-kun. Please don't ignore them anymore."

"Ah— Yeah. Sorr—"

Her gentle eyes peered into mine, cutting off my words—

As she pressed her lips against mine.

It lasted only a moment. She pulled her lips away immediately.

...Yet that alone made everything else feel completely trivial.

My brain was thoroughly flooded with happiness.

"Fufu."

Parting her lips and holding me to her chest once more, Nagi smiled.

"I'm actually very happy. Because the Souta-kun of the past surely wouldn't have told me."

True to her words, the corners of her eyes curved downward, and the edges of her lips curled up in genuine delight.

"Sharing these things with me properly. Trusting me... I love you so much."

Every single one of those words warmed my heart, filling me with energy.

However, Nagi paused her hands.

"If you happen to run into those people again, I'll beat them up for you."

She said it with a laugh... but her eyes weren't laughing at all.

For a moment, it felt like the room's temperature had dropped. Remembering what had happened at Nagi's high school, I let out a wry chuckle.

"...Me too."

Pulling back slightly so I could speak, I looked at Nagi.

"If anyone ever tries to toy with you again, Nagi, I'll beat them up."

"Fufu. I'll be counting on you then. I depend on you, you know."

Saying only that, I leaned my weight against her. Nagi's heartbeat was clearly audible.

Nagi's hand gently stroked my head. Our usual roles were reversed... but it felt so good that I felt like I might ask for this again.

And so, we spent a tranquil, relaxing time together until we were called down for dinner.

◆◆◆

"I-I'm feeling a little nervous."

"...Yeah."

We finished dinner and took our baths....Separately, of course.

Afterward, we returned to the room. Having nothing left to do today, all that remained was to sleep, yet for some reason, nervousness settled in.

It wasn't like we were going to do anything; we were just going to sleep....However, many things were different from usual.

The biggest difference was that the bed was a single. It was the one I had used since elementary school. Dad had asked if I wanted a new one, but I turned him down since I'd only use it for a few days during visits home.

Plus, thinking about the fact that Nagi would be sleeping in the room where I had slept since I was little... it was only natural to feel nervous.

"You're... always on the inner side, right, Nagi?"

"Y-Yes."

The bed was positioned against the corner of the room. Nagi lay down on the bed first and pulled up the blanket.

"I'm coming in."

"Y-Yes."

Next, I lay down as well. As expected, it was a bit cramped, and my shoulder and hand brushed against Nagi's.

Nagi was wearing warm, fluffy pink pajamas. The texture brushing against half my body felt wonderful.

"...It seems a bit tight for you, Souta-kun."

"No, this much is fine."

I chuckled at Nagi's remark... and after thinking for a moment.

"Hop!"

She threw her arms around me.

The fluffy texture... and the soft warmth beneath it enveloped my entire body.

"N-Nagi?"

"...This way, you won't fall out of bed, Souta-kun. And we can share the blanket properly."

Just as Nagi said, the blanket wouldn't slip off like this....However.

"A-All sorts of things are pressing against me, you know."

"...It's a bit late to worry about that."

"I mean, that might... be true, but still."

Embarrassment set in, making my face burn hot.

Nagi's head rested around the level of my neck. She looked up at me with upturned eyes.

Thump, thump. Nagi's heartbeat and my heartbeat overlapped.

"I'm not sure if I'll be able to sleep."

"Fufu. Me neither. My heart is pounding so fast."

Nagi murmured softly, burying her face into my neck.

"Yet, somehow, it brings me such peace."

"...I'm gonna shift our posture a bit."

Originally, I had been lying on my back. Asking Nagi to let go for a moment, I—turned toward Nagi and wrapped my arms around her.

"...!"

Nagi looked surprised for an instant, before her face lit up with joy, and she embraced me in return.

"Back when I was little. Before I entered elementary school, when I was really small."

Feeling Nagi's warmth in my arms, I murmured softly.

"Whenever I slept with Mom and Dad, they used to hold me like this....So, I feel a little at peace too."

Once I entered elementary school, it became embarrassing, so they stopped doing it, though.

Nagi giggled softly.

"When I was little, I couldn't sleep without a stuffed animal, either."

"...Even after I started sleeping alone, I couldn't sleep without a body pillow for a while."

"Fufu. We're the same....Now, I'm your body pillow, aren't I?"

"And you have me too, Nagi."

"Yes!"

Nagi gave a tight, firm squeeze, burying her face into my neck.

"...Let's go out together tomorrow."

"I want to visit all sorts of places. The places you used to go often, Souta-kun, and your old schools too. Even if we can't go inside, I'd love to see them."

"Yeah. Let's go."

We still had plenty of time....We could visit all kinds of places.

When I stroked her head, Nagi let out a ticklish giggle. We continued talking about various things after that. How we used to be scared of ghosts at bedtime. How it was so cold in winter that not wanting to leave the blanket almost made us late.

Gradually, Nagi's voice grew quieter. She was probably getting sleepy.

"Good night, Nagi."

"...Good night."

Soft, rhythmic breathing soon reached my ears. For a while, I gazed at her sleeping form. When I caressed her cheek, her lips moved slightly, and her expression melted into a relaxed smile.

"I love you, Nagi."

Beautiful, cute... kind, and strong. I cherished her more than words could say.

All the unpleasant things that happened today had been completely forgotten. Every bit of it was thanks to Nagi.

"...I love you too."

Whether it was sleep-talking or she had still heard me, I didn't know. But either way was fine....Because either way brought me joy.

Before long, I felt my own consciousness fading. The sensation in my limbs grew dull. My eyelids felt impossibly heavy.

Hoping I could meet Nagi in my dreams as well, I let myself drift off into sleep.

◆◆◆

Suddenly, I woke up in the middle of the night. It wasn't a gradual awakening, but a sharp snap back to reality, like being tossed out of a dozing trance.

"Nnnh...?"

Hearing a tiny murmur of sleep-talking from beside me, my attention shifted there.

Even in the darkness, her snow-white hair was clearly visible. Watching her shift slightly brought a smile to my face, though I noticed a mild thirst in my throat.

While watching Nagi sleep like this had its charms, I probably wouldn't fall right back to sleep immediately. Since it was just past midnight, I slowly slipped out of bed to avoid waking her.

I planned to grab some water in the kitchen, but noticed light spilling from the living room. Given the time, Mom and Dad were probably still awake.

Just then, a silhouette peeked out from the living room. It was Mom. She must have heard my footsteps.

"Souta, what's wrong?"

"I woke up feeling a bit thirsty. Thought I'd grab some water."

"I see. Since you're up, would you like some hot milk?"

"No...... Well, actually, maybe I will have some."

I was about to decline, but Mom looked somewhat eager. Remembering how she used to make hot milk for me on restless nights back in the day, I decided to accept her pampering.

"Alright. Wait with your father in the living room."

"Thanks, Mom."

"You're welcome."

With a constant bright smile, Mom hurried off to the kitchen with light steps. Feeling a wave of nostalgia, I walked into the living room.

"Oh, Souta. Can't sleep?"

"Not that I can't sleep... I just woke up for a second."

"Come to think of it, you've been going to bed earlier lately, haven't you? Seeing you become even healthier after meeting Nagi-chan is the best news of all."

Watching Dad cross his arms and nod with a thoroughly satisfied look, I gave a wry smile and sat down beside him. Nostalgic, this feeling.

Then, Dad cast a brief glance at me as I sat next to him.

"By the way, Souta."

"Hm?"

"Did something happen today?"

A brief silence descended upon the room. Purely because I couldn't think of a response.

"...What makes you think that?"

That was the best question I could squeeze out. Answering a question with another question, but Dad smiled and replied.

"I felt a slight strange vibe when you came home. It disappeared after you spent some time in your room, though... so I figured Nagi-chan did something for you. But as your father, I didn't think it'd be right to just overlook it."

Listening closely to Dad's words, I felt a twinge of surprise. Between coming home and heading to my room, I had talked with Mom, but with Dad, we only exchanged "I'm home" and "Welcome back." Yet, he had noticed from just that. Was it written on my face that clearly... Well, Nagi had seen through me too.

I hesitated. Wondering if I should tell him. But telling him this meant sharing everything I had kept from them up until now...

"...A few things happened. But it's all settled now, so I'm fine."

"I see. If it's settled, that's what matters."

In the end, I chose not to talk. Aside from causing worry, I hadn't told Mom and Dad about what happened up through middle school....They were the type who would feel immense guilt upon finding out. In that case, it was better left unsaid.

Dad's eyes locked straight onto me. While usually carefree, he wore his occasional serious expression.

"Still, Souta, I'll say it as many times as it takes: no matter what happens, your mother and I will always be on your side."

"...Yeah, I know. You two are dependable."

What came to mind was something from not long ago. Dad had seen through the lingering knot in my heart after breaking Nagi's arranged marriage. And Dad had spoken with Souichirou-san to untangle that knot for me.

"You've been mature since you were little, Souta. You're allowed to lean on us much more, you know."

"...Yeah. Thank you."

"You're welcome. A child's happiness is a parent's happiness. Living a life without regrets... might be impossible, but don't let overthinking paralyze you from moving forward. If anything happens, we'll help you."

Dad's tone wasn't his usual breezy one. That was precisely why I knew he was putting me first.

And because it was him, there was something I wanted to ask.

"Dad. Can I ask you one thing?"

"What is it? Don't stop at one—ask a hundred, or even a thousand!"

Contrary to his words, his serious expression remained firm. Giving a single nod, I slowly chose my words in my head before speaking.

"Um. What do you do... when something scary approaches you, Dad?"

Even to myself, it sounded far too abstract. I needed to be more specific. Just as I was about to open my mouth again, Dad beat me to it.

"Depends on what that scary thing is, and the situation. For example, if a scary person approaches me while I'm alone, I run. If your mother, you, or anyone else is with me, I carry you and run. That's what I built these muscles for, after all."

Dad raised his arm slightly, making his muscles bulge. When I was little, he used to give me piggyback rides all the time... and looking at him now, he was dependable enough that I felt he still could.

"Running away isn't uncool. If you think of it as protecting yourself, it's actually a cool thing to do. Especially since if I'm gone, our household would be in big trouble... That's my answer as a father."

"...Sounds just like you, Dad."

"Yep, because I'm your dad....Still, running away isn't the only correct answer, Souta."

My finger twitched slightly. That was an unexpected comment.

"If you feel like you don't want to run, that you want to stand your ground, trying that is an option too. Well, in short, it's what you call a man's pride. Pride has its good and bad sides, but everyone has things they can't compromise on. Just like how I want to be cool as your father."

"...Things you can't compromise on."

"Yeah. For instance, running away from scary things isn't bad....But if your mother or you were beside me, I'd definitely stand firm and fight back."

"...Because that's cool?"

"Exactly. Because I want to show my cool side to both your mother and you. That's what pride as a father and as a man is all about."

Dad looked at me with an expression that seemed to say, "How's that?" That, too, was so like him.

"Well, physical fear and mental fear are different things, though. If a samurai with a katana chases you, running away is definitely best. But say, standing up because you hate being made fun of by bullies—that's pretty cool in my book. Of course, running away... distancing yourself to protect yourself is also a cool, wise choice."

"...!"

My heart gave a heavy thud. Stunned, I couldn't find any words. Yet whether Dad noticed my reaction or not... though I felt he probably had, he offered a warm smile.

"That's my answer. Anything else you want to ask?"

"...A-Ah, no. Thanks. I'm good. I got the answer I needed."

"Really? Nothing else? Like, 'What does Dad do on his days off?' or 'What's your position at work?'"

"I asked all of that back in elementary school for homework assignments."

The atmosphere around Dad instantly softened, naturally allowing the tension to drain from me as well. Then, Dad stood up.

"Well then, I guess I'll brush my teeth and head to bed soon."

"Got it. Good night, Dad....Thank you."

"Good night, Souta. And, you're welcome."

With a gentle smile, Dad headed back toward his room. Almost crossing paths with him, Mom walked in carrying a mug of hot milk.

"Here you go, Souta."

"Thanks, Mom."

Accepting the hot milk, Mom sat down where Dad had just been... right beside me.

"Were you able to talk with your father?"

"Yeah. I got to hear all sorts of things."

Taking a sip of the hot milk, I felt the warm liquid pass down my throat and settle into my stomach. Similarly, a gentle warmth spread throughout my heart.

"You were surprised, weren't you?"

"...About which part?"

Having vaguely guessed Mom had been listening, I wasn't surprised. Dad heading to the bedroom early was probably him being considerate of Mom and me. Since arriving, I had been with Nagi the entire time, after all.

Wondering how much she had heard, I asked—only for her reply to make my heart thump hard.

"About standing up to bullies."

I closed my half-opened mouth. It was to hide the wavering of my emotions, but... for some reason, it felt like Mom and Dad saw right through everything.

However, without pressing further, Mom continued talking.

"Actually, you know. Your father was a bullied kid back during his school days."

"...Huh?"

A bewildered sound slipped from my lips at the completely new revelation. As Mom continued with a "Surprising, isn't it?", all I could do was nod.

"Back then, unlike now, your father had zero muscle and was on the shorter side."

"That's news to me... Or rather, I feel like I've barely heard any stories about your pasts, Mom."

Thinking about it, that was true. I knew Mom and Dad were childhood friends, but that was about all I had ever heard.

"That man especially loves putting on a cool front for you, Souta. Want to hear it?"

"...I do."

I couldn't imagine how my energetic, dependable dad had been a bullied kid in the past. And I wanted to know.

"Alright. Let's see... It's a short story, so listen to pass the time until you get sleepy."

When I nodded, Mom began to speak.

◆◇◆◇◆

Your father and I lived close to each other since we were little. We used to play together all the time, but by the time we entered middle school, we barely hung out anymore. That rebellious phase, you know. It might have also been because your father was an indoor person while I was an outdoor person.

Back then, your father was on the shorter side for a boy, and timid. I was probably on the stronger-willed side.

The reason we started talking again—was when your father was being bullied behind the gymnasium, and I happened to be there to help him.

The class delinquents were shaking him down for money. Part of helping him was a sense of justice... but there was also the bond of being childhood friends. Even if we had stopped playing together, it wasn't like I disliked him.

I called a teacher to stop them, and naturally, we started talking again after that and became close once more.

Things were so fun after that... I'd drag your father outside, and we'd go to the movies or shopping together....But that didn't last very long.

◆◇◆◇◆

"Why didn't it last...?"

"You know the person who was shaking down your father for money? That person's target shifted to me."

I caught my breath at Mom's words. Shaking someone down for money was bad enough, but targeting a girl... I never imagined it went that far.

"I was called out by a letter. Saying if I didn't come, they'd bully your father again. So I went... and right when things were about to get terrible, your father showed up."

"Dad showed up then?"

"Yes. His legs and body were trembling violently, and the bullies made complete fun of him."

Knowing the current Dad made it hard to imagine... yet I understood that it must have taken an incredible amount of courage. When I ran into my former classmates at the park, even making eye contact had been difficult.

"Those people mocked your father. But to me, he looked so incredibly cool."

I nodded at Mom's words. While I couldn't picture his appearance, his core... his essence was no different from the current Dad. I thought he sounded amazingly cool.

"After that, your father worked so hard. So that if something like that ever happened again, he could protect me. By the time you were going to be born, Souta... once he found out you were in my belly, he worked even harder."

"...I really knew nothing about Dad, did I?"

My true feelings spilled out, and Mom laughed.

"Of course, since your father wanted to hide it. He said he only wanted to show his cool side to you, Souta. Though that's the part of him I love."

"...I see."

"If your father told the story himself, it'd sound like bragging about his glory days, right? He seemed sick of hearing those kinds of stories from his bosses at work. So I ended up telling you."

Returning a smile to Mom's chuckle, I finished the rest of my hot milk.

"Dad was putting on a cool front even more than I thought."

"That's right. Disillusioned?"

"No way. Not at all....If anything, I mean, I respect him even more now."

Feeling slightly embarrassed, my words faltered. Even so, I didn't want to hide this feeling right now.

"...It made me think all over again that someday, I want to become a man like Dad."

"You really do love your father, Souta. You've always said the person you admire most is your father, after all."

"...I can't deny that."

Even the reason I started drinking black coffee was because Dad looked cool drinking it....Come to think of it, right around that time, Dad stopped drinking alcohol at home. Maybe he thought it might be a bad influence on me someday.

With those thoughts in mind, I raised the mug of hot milk to my lips. Since only a little remained, I finished it in one gulp.

"Thanks, Mom. For telling me about Dad....And for the hot milk."

"You're very welcome. Thank you too, for keeping me company with your stories."

"You're welcome."

Dad truly was someone I admired. From the past, all the way until now.

"You can leave the mug there. You're getting sleepy now, aren't you?"

"Yeah, thanks....I'll head back to the room then."

"Alright....Souta."

As I stood up, Mom called out to me. When I looked back, she gave me a gentle smile.

"You'll probably face many dilemmas from now on, Souta. Whenever that happens, ask your heart what it is you truly want to do. Living a life without regrets might be difficult, but your father and I will support you with everything we have....Along with Nagi-chan, and Nagi-chan's parents too."

"...Yeah. I'll remember that."

Nodding, I began to leave the living room... before looking back at Mom one more time.

"Good night, Souta. Sweet dreams."

"Good night, Mom. You too."

I really was no match for them. For Mom and Dad.

—They saw through everything. Yet even so, they respected my feelings above all else.

Someday, would I be able to become an adult as cool as that?

Ruminating on Mom's and Dad's words in my heart, I returned to the room.

The white-haired beauty was sleeping peacefully in the bed.

Carefully slipping under the blanket so as not to wake her, she nestled her face against my chest. For a moment, I wondered if I had woken her... but that didn't seem to be the case.

"...Nagi."

I whispered her name under my breath. Moving the hair away from her face, she smiled ticklishly.

Welling up from the depths of my heart was the feeling of finding her so adorable, so deeply precious.

Especially since returning home today, Nagi had helped me so much. The time spent relying on her... was something I loved.

However.

"...Dad must have felt this exact same way."

I wanted to show my cool side to Nagi. I wanted her to think I was cool.

This emotion was surely what Dad referred to as "a man's pride." This was something that couldn't be easily discarded. Nor did I want to discard it.

"—I'm glad. That I got to talk with Dad and Mom."

It felt as though the knot in the depths of my heart had come undone. I felt even more refreshed than before.

Closing my eyes after that, I was drawn into the ocean of sleep more smoothly than ever before.

◆◆◆

I woke up naturally. That was a rather rare occurrence for me. While waking up in the middle of the night had also been unusual, unlike then, my head felt foggy and dazed.

Usually, an alarm woke me up on school days... and lately, Nagi waking me up had become a frequent occurrence. On weekends, I had to do chores and shopping, so I relied on alarms as well.

A sweet fragrance gently tickled my nose, prompting me to open my eyes.

Even with sleep-filled eyes, I recognized what was in front of me immediately.

With snow-white hair and blue eyes, Nagi's face was right there.

Within my hazy vision, ocean-blue eyes gazed back at me.

"Good morning, Souta-kun."

"...Nagi?"

"Yes, it's me. Your Nagi, Souta-kun."

Hearing her reply with a soft chuckle—I pulled her into an embrace. Just on a whim, with no particular reason.

"S-Souta-kun?"

"...Nagi."

Amidst my foggy thoughts, I held Nagi close.

"Fufu. You're still sleepy, aren't you, Souta-kun?"

I gave a firm nod to her question. Nagi's chuckle was wonderfully soothing to my ears.

"Understood. It's still early... so shall we go back to sleep together?"

After she said that... she wrapped her arms around me in a tight, firm embrace.

Enveloped by warmth and softness all over, a profound sense of security washed through me.

"Well then, good night, Souta-kun."

"...Good night."

My consciousness sank straight down to the depths of the ocean.

"...I love you."

"Yes. I love you too."

Leaving those words behind.

◆◆◆

With a start, my eyes snapped open.

I felt like I had done something terribly embarrassing....No, I definitely did. Big time.

Though half-asleep, the memories were crystal clear. What on earth was I doing... Just last night, I had resolved to show Nagi my cool side.

With my face burning hot—I looked at Nagi sleeping in my arms.

Breathing softly, she was sleeping so comfortably. She looked almost like a beautiful doll.

When I touched her hair, she squirmed ticklishly. The sight was so cute... so precious. A slight sense of mischief sprouted within me.

...She won't wake up, right?

Gently shifting my hand, I touched her cheek.

The texture was incredible. Smooth as silk... and delightfully supple.

While I had touched it a few times while awake, this was my first time feeling it so carefully.

Poking it with a finger and caressing it with my palm, I noticed something. The corners of Nagi's mouth had lifted.

"...Are you awake?"

When I spoke... a smile broke across Nagi's lips.

"Fufu. You caught me."

"S-Since when..."

"Just now."

Nagi opened her eyes—revealing blue eyes as beautiful as gemstones.

Her gentle gaze locked steadily onto mine.

"Your hand on my cheek felt so warm... and comfortable. I ended up waking up."

"S-Sorry."

Realizing I was still caressing her cheek, I tried to pull my hand away—only for Nagi's hand to stop it.

Pressing my hand firmly against her cheek, she smiled gently.

"More. Please touch me a lot more."

A shiver ran through me. Those words gently caressed my heart.

"I love being touched by you, Souta-kun. It feels warm, cozy, and fluffy....It fills me with such happiness."

Nagi's hand stroked the back of mine. It tickled slightly.

"Having my cheek touched, having my head patted... being hugged, being kissed. I love every single bit of it."

Nagi's hand gently took mine—and drew it to her chest.

Squeezed tightly against her—a soft sensation transmitted into my palm.

"N-Nagi..."

"It's fine, if it's you, Souta-kun... I thought you might secretly touch me, though."

Nagi murmured in a slightly sulky tone.

"I figured you wouldn't touch me, Souta-kun....But you could have hesitated just a little, you know."

Hearing her words, I felt the blood rushing to my face. Even my ears were burning hot.

The soft texture against my palm—and the heavy, rapid thumping of her heartbeat thoroughly overwhelmed my mind.

"T-This much is just part of skinship....I can only do this with you, Souta-kun, and I wouldn't do it with anyone else."

Though her face was bright red, Nagi kept her gentle smile.

"You tend to hold back with me in these areas... so I wanted to let you know."

"I-I see."

"If we don't get used to it little by little... it will be overwhelming when the time comes, after all."

My heart began beating painfully loud. As my body temperature rose and sweat threatened to bead on my forehead—my phone vibrated with a buzz.

Startled by the sudden vibration, my body tensed up.

—My hand tensed up.

Nagi's eyes went wide in surprise... and when I looked down, my fingers were sinking in.

Squish.

...To compare it, it felt like grabbing cotton candy, or scooping up pudding in a full handful. That was the sensation. Even while entertaining such ridiculous thoughts, I quickly pulled my hand away.

"S... Sorry. The vibration startled me and I tensed up."

"N-No..."

Nagi's face was flushed completely red, yet—she wasn't angry.

"I-If it's you, Souta-kun, I don't mind....I-It hurt just a tiny bit, but knowing you were the one doing it... I didn't dislike it at all."

Far from being upset—she offered a gentle smile just like before.

"I-If anything... you can touch more, you know?"

My head spun. My heart wavered heavily.

This—was dangerous.

One wrong move and I felt like I'd become completely dependent on Nagi. Even now, I had already reached a point where I couldn't live without her.

...Isn't it already too late?

No. That couldn't be true. It shouldn't be.

"A-Any more than this, and I really won't be able to hold back....Mom and Dad are here, after all."

"...That's true."

If I lost control, my reason would completely fly out the window. I'd even forget that Mom and Dad were in the house. I could guarantee that.

Nagi giggled softly and moved closer to me.

"I feel like I'll die of embarrassment if we stay like this. So please give me one big hug."

"...Yeah."

As Nagi reached out her hands, I pulled her close and embraced her.

"Let's have fun today as well, Souta-kun."

"Yeah....Let's enjoy it to the fullest."

She held me tightly. To return the gesture, I held her tightly as well.

And then, the two of us headed down to the living room—

Though the sensation lingering on my palm refused to fade away easily.

By the way, the earlier notification was from Mom, reading: "Message me when you wake up. I'll make breakfast."

◆◆◆

"This is the route to school. From back in elementary school."

"Heh... You walked this way every day, then."

It was just an ordinary road with nothing particularly novel. Even so, Nagi was looking around with keen interest.

"When I was in elementary school, a driver always took me, so this feels very fresh to me. Ah, those traffic safety flags are the ones volunteers use, right?"

"Yeah. There was an elderly man who watched over us every day. I wonder if he's still doing well."

Right as I was reminiscing, a silhouette bounded out from further down the route.

"Woof!"

"Whoa... Haku?!"

It was a large, snow-white, fluffy dog. Haku.

"...Oh my, Souta-kun. You came back! No wonder Haku suddenly bolted off like that."

"Long time no see, Shirayama-san."

Following behind was an elderly woman, Shirayama-san. It was great to see that she looked healthy as well.

"...U-Um. Hello."

"Yes, hello there."

Seeing Nagi look a bit lost, I introduced her while petting Haku.

"Shirayama-san. This is my girlfriend and fiancee, Nagi."

"I-I am Nagi Shinonome. It is an honor to meet you!"

"Goodness me! Souta-kun, did you get married?!"

"Ah, no. We're still fiancees... though we intend to get married eventually."

"I see, I see! That's wonderful. To meet such a pretty young lady."

Shirayama-san beamed warmly, bringing a smile to my face as well.

"Nagi, this is Shirayama-san. And this dog's name is Haku. He's been fond of me since way back."

"Hello, I'm Shirayama. Souta-kun used to play with Haku all the time, you see."

"I-Is that so?"

Haku was a Samoyed, so he was fairly large. But he was incredibly friendly and always wore an adorable smile.

"You've grown so big too, Souta-kun. You used to be so small back then."

"Yeah....Though it's only been about two years since we last saw each other."

When I ruffled Haku's fur, he happily rubbed his face against me. It made me happy that he still remembered me.

"Paw."

"Woof."

"Good boy."

Haku placed his paw on my hand obediently. When I stroked his fluffy coat again, Haku narrowed his eyes in pure bliss.

"M-May I try petting him as well?"

"Go right ahead, go right ahead. Haku is very friendly, so don't worry, he won't bite."

At Shirayama-san's words, Nagi nodded and crouched down. Then, she brought her hand close to Haku. Haku sniffed Nagi's palm with a few twitches of his nose... and rubbed his face against it. That was his permission to pet him.

"P-Pardon me!"

Nagi spoke politely before stroking Haku's head.

The next instant, Nagi's eyes sparkled brightly.

"Wow... so fluffy."

Nagi stroked Haku's head, petted his back... and thoroughly ruffled his fur. With an ordinary dog, one might worry about overdoing it, but Haku had always loved being petted, so there was no issue.

"...He's so cute."

"Fufu, thank you, dear."

Watching Nagi play with Haku, an idea suddenly struck me.

"Shirayama-san, would it be alright if we took a picture with Haku?"

"Of course. Take as many as you like."

"Thank you. Nagi, mind if I take a picture?"

"Of course! Please let me take one later as well."

Nagi looked at me with a bright smile while petting Haku. Caught up in the mood, Haku looked at me too... with a smiling face. The famous Samoyed smile.

...Yep. That turned out to be a great photo.

"Can I use this as my wallpaper or profile icon?"

"Yes! I was planning on doing the same!"

Getting Nagi's permission... I gazed at the photo once more.

Haku was cute, of course, but Nagi was adorable too... I felt like this photo alone would give me the strength to work hard next year.

◆◇◆

At the same time. The Makisaka residence.

"...Oh. Those two are flirting again, aren't they?"

"What's up? Minorin and Nagirin?"

"Yeah. Look at this."

The moment Eiji showed his phone to Kirika, she snatched it right out of his hands.

"Wha—! So cute! What is this doggy?! And Nagirin is so cute!"

"Pretty sure that's a Samoyed, right? Look, Shinonome's icon changed to Souta."

"For real! Whoa! Minorin's having a blast too!"

It seemed they were thoroughly enjoying themselves over there.

"I wonder if they ran into each other over there. Will we get to meet them when we go?"

"Who knows... Alright, let's hit up a dog cafe too!"

"Hell yeah! Let's go! Ah, can I invite Hikarun?"

"Yeah! Call her, call her! Let's spam them with photos!"

Thank goodness, truly. For a moment, he had wondered how things would turn out. But now, they were smiling like that.

"...Good for you, best friend."

"Hmm? Did you say something?"

"Nothing. Just talking to myself."

"Hmph... 'Best friend,' huh?"

"You heard that, didn't you? Forget it."

Kirika laughed merrily with a "No way."

"You were pretty cool back then too, though, Eiji."

"...You bet. I'm Kirika's boyfriend, after all."

"Oh-ho! Look at you talking big! But of course you are. You're my proud boyfriend."

Watching Kirika laugh heartily, Eiji looked at Souta and Nagi's photo one last time.

He sent a message: "At this rate, I'm gonna mix you and Shinonome up when I text you."

Shortly after, both of their icons changed to the exact same picture—the one with the Samoyed sitting between the two of them.

◆◇◆

"...Hey, Nagi."

"What is it?"

"Aren't you standing a bit close?"

"Isn't this how we usually are?"

"Well... yes, but."

After parting ways with Shirayama-san and Haku and walking for a bit, I noticed a strange sensation. Or rather, calling it strange felt slightly off. What felt strange was the fact that I didn't feel any discomfort about it.

To be specific, Nagi was walking at the exact same distance we kept at home.

Our shoulders brushed, our hands were tightly intertwined... and through my thick coat, something soft pressed against my elbow. Nagi's body heat radiated through my right side.

The mysterious part was that it didn't make walking difficult at all.

Our strides naturally matched, and we were able to converse normally as we walked. That was precisely why I hadn't noticed the oddity. It wasn't just close; it was remarkably close. When I stopped and turned my face to the right, Nagi's face was right there.

"...U-Um, well. We're outside, after all."

"There's no one around to see, though?"

Just as Nagi said, there were barely any people around this area. However, asking if it was constantly deserted was a different story.

"Anyone could show up at any moment, you know."

"I-If that happens, let's just show off!"

"Show off, you say..."

Smiling wryly at her words—I finally realized Nagi's true intention.

My gaze locked with Nagi's. Her eyes gazed softly at me.

"Even if we run into your acquaintances, Souta-kun, they'll be able to tell at a single glance....That you and I are more than just lovers."

Stopping in her tracks, Nagi stood on tiptoe—and planted a gentle kiss on my cheek.

"With that as an excuse, I thought doing this outside would be alright."

"...You're quite the schemer, Nagi."

"Fufu. I'm actually rather sly, you know? Especially when it involves you, Souta-kun."

Resting her chin on my shoulder, Nagi giggled softly.

"Just for today, I guess it's fine."

"Yes!...It doesn't have to be just for today, though?"

"M-My heart won't survive that."

"How unfortunate."

Contrary to her words, her expression was full of joy. My cheeks naturally softened into a smile as well.

"...The school is less than five minutes away from here."

"Yes!"

Nagi pulled her face back and intertwined our hands once more.

"Your hand is so warm, Souta-kun."

She gently lifted that hand. My hand was lifted along with it.

A squishy texture transmitted to the back of my hand. It had been pressed against Nagi's cheek.

By the way, I wasn't wearing gloves right now. The sun was out, so it wasn't freezing cold. And... wearing gloves made it harder to feel the sensation of holding Nagi's hand. I planned to put them on once it got a bit colder.

"The back of your hand is a little cool, isn't it?"

"...Since I've been holding hands with you the whole time, the heat's probably trapped in our palms."

"That makes sense."

When I gently tickled her cheek with my thumb, Nagi narrowed her eyes and shivered happily.

"That tickles a little."

"My bad."

"No. It makes me happy."

Nagi took my hand again... and gazed intently at the back of my hand.

"Nagi?"

"..."

Gently, her face drew closer to my hand.

Against the back of my hand, different from her cheek. A soft, warm texture pressed down.

"Ngh..."

"Now then. Let us truly get going this time, Souta-kun."

Nagi looked at my face, nodded with satisfaction, and tried to start walking....As if to hide her reddening cheeks.

"Nagi."

I called out to stop her.

"What is i—"

The moment she turned around, I pressed my lips against her forehead. Through my lips, Nagi's warmth transmitted over. It felt a little hot.

"...!"

"L-Let's go. We can't keep stopping like this... people will think we're weird if they see us."

"...Yes!"

And so, we finally began walking. Glancing at Nagi, our eyes met, and she offered a small smile.

—Her face was flushed red, all the way to her ears.

◆◆◆

"So this is the elementary school you attended, Souta-kun."

"Yeah. Though it's just an ordinary elementary school with nothing special....Maybe a little on the smaller side?"

"That might be true. It seems smaller than the one I attended."

There weren't all that many children around this area. Well, the school probably wouldn't close down, though.

Running on the sports field was what looked like the soccer club. There were fewer members than I remembered. When I went here, they used to do all sorts of activities in cooperation with the local soccer club.

Right then... my eyes met those of a female teacher near the field.

"That's..."

The moment I murmured, she began running over.

"...! It really is you, Souta-kun!"

A female, very youthful teacher....Ah. That's right.

"Long time no see, Nitta-sensei."

"It's been so long! Have you been doing well?"

"Yes, without catching any major illnesses. I'm glad to see you looking healthy as well, Sensei."

"...Well, a lot has happened, but I'm doing well too."

After exchanging those words, I noticed Nagi fidgeting slightly beside me.

"Sensei. This is my fiancee, Nagi Shinonome."

"I-It is an honor to be introduced. I am Nagi Shinonome."

"...Fiancee?"

Expecting her to ask for clarification, I opened my mouth to explain... but Nagi was faster.

"D-Due to various circumstances, Souta-kun and I have decided to share our future together....There were family matters involved as well."

"Well, that's pretty much it. It's a long story."

"Heh~. An arranged political marriage, perhaps?"

The teacher probably didn't mean any harm by asking. However, hearing that made me choke on my words.

...And seeing my face, the teacher wore an expression that said she had realized her slip of the tongue.

As for Nagi beside me—

"No. That is not the case. If anything, it is quite the opposite."

She simply answered with a calm, composed tone.

"Due to a misunderstanding with my family, largely caused by myself, I was about to enter an arranged marriage. However, Souta-kun broke... fixed everything for me. And to ensure no more marriage proposals would come..."

She wasn't explaining it mechanically....Yet she wasn't suppressing any pain, either.

"Therefore, rather than an arranged marriage, it is an engagement to prevent an arranged marriage....While my current father wouldn't accept such proposals anyway, it also serves to ease my emotional burden."

"...I'm sorry. That was very insensitive of me to say."

"No, I have already moved past it....Naturally, the engagement isn't something forced; both Souta-kun and I have mutual feelings for each other. Besides, I made a promise with Souta-kun. That we would become happy together."

Haaah. I couldn't help letting out a breath.

...She's strong.

Not that much time had passed since then, yet Nagi had grown remarkably strong. Visiting the amusement park once more had truly allowed her to make a clean break. Furthermore—

"You've become so beautiful."

"Fueh?"

"Ah... no. Never mind."

I ended up saying it out loud.

Compared to before I ever spoke to Nagi, back when I simply admired her from afar, she looked so much, much more beautiful now. It wasn't my imagination. Absolutely not.

"Have I... become beautiful?"

"...Yeah. Incredibly so."

Right now, I felt like I could gaze at Nagi's face for an entire day without noticing the time pass... though that sounded a bit creepy, so I kept it to myself.

"Y-You've become cooler too, Souta-kun. Even now, meeting your eyes brings me comfort, but... it makes my heart flutter as well."

"This scene is far too dazzling for someone in her thirties."

Snapping back to reality at those words, I looked to the side... to see the teacher quietly shedding tears from beyond the fence.

"S-Sensei?"

"Sorry about that. I'm turning thirty-one this year and still can't find a single boyfriend....On weekends, I'm busy supervising club activities so I can't even go to matchmaking events, and there are zero encounters..."

"T-Thank you for your hard work...?"

Sensei seemed to have her own share of struggles....Being such a kind person, I assumed she would have married long ago. I remembered her taking great care of me back then.

As Nagi and I smiled wryly at the teacher's words... Sensei's expression suddenly shifted.

"Also, Souta-kun. There was something that weighed on my mind for the longest time. Something I always needed to tell you. Even if it's just for my own satisfaction, will you hear me out?"

With a serious expression, she gazed at me. I nodded without hesitation.

"I failed as a teacher....I couldn't make your final year of elementary school, a once-in-a-lifetime experience, enjoyable for you."

"That's not—"

"No, it is. Ever since then, I've always had lingering regrets about you, Souta-kun. During the most important period, I couldn't be of any help."

Regret seeped through every single word.

Right then, Nagi raised her hand slightly.

"Pardon me. May I ask for a little context?"

"Yeah."

Nagi probably hadn't grasped the full picture yet.

"You remember what we talked about yesterday, right?"

"...About you being teased, you mean?"

"Yeah. Actually, that started back when I was in elementary school. Nitta-sensei was my homeroom teacher in sixth grade, and she took great care of me. She scolded those guys for me."

"...Even so, she couldn't change them."

It was true that they hadn't changed despite the teacher's scolding. However.

"I was happy, Sensei. Without you, things would have definitely been much worse."

In truth, the frequency of being teased had decreased during sixth grade.

"I have nothing but gratitude for you, Nitta-sensei. Truly."

"Souta-kun..."

"So please let me say it again. Thank you very much."

Letting go of Nagi's hand for a moment, I bowed my head.

"Still, I..."

"Sensei. At times like this, a single phrase is all you need."

At Nagi's words, Sensei fell silent.

And then—

"You... are very welcome."

She replied.

"...How many years has it been since I last said 'You're welcome,' I wonder?"

"That's what I was taught at home. To accept gratitude honestly. Because it feels much better that way."

"I thought so back then too, but you really were blessed with a wonderful family."

"Yes. A very, very wonderful home."

If Mom and Dad hadn't been there, I might have strayed down the wrong path.

Sensei let out a soft laugh and looked toward the field.

"I should head back soon. If I talk any longer, the parents will complain....Lastly."

Sensei looked at me.

"I'm sure various coincidences aligned, but thank you, Souta-kun. I'm glad I got to talk with you."

"...You're welcome."

To be honest, saying that to a teacher made me hesitate slightly. But after what had just happened, choosing not to say it was out of the question.

"And—Nagi-chan, may I call you that?"

"Yes. Whatever is easiest for you."

"Then Nagi-chan it is....Nagi-chan."

Sensei smiled gently at Nagi.

"He is one of the top five best kids I have ever known. From the bottom of my heart, I want him to be happy....And naturally, I want you, Nagi-chan, the person he chose to stand beside him, to be happy as well."

Nagi listened intently to the teacher's words.

"As young as you two are, you'll surely experience all sorts of things from now on. I'm sure it won't be just fun things. There will be sad and painful times too. But even so."

Sensei hadn't changed since back then.

"I want you to enjoy it. This long road called life... together with him."

Those words—were the exact same words she had given me on the day of graduation.

"Yes. I will enjoy it. This long, long road."

Looking straight at Sensei, Nagi replied.

"As long as I am with Souta-kun, I know we can find happiness....I am certain we will lead fun-filled days."

Nagi looked at me and smiled softly.

"Tomorrow will be more fun than today. The day after tomorrow will be more fun than tomorrow. Because I have Souta-kun... and Souta-kun has me."

Not a single shadow clouded her blue eyes. That brought me so much joy. When I placed my hand on her head, Nagi closed her eyes happily.

"Souta-kun. You're getting better at patting my head with each passing day, you know."

"...Really?"

"Yes. Being patted like this now makes me so happy and blissful... that I feel like I might drift off to sleep."

Just as Nagi said, her eyes looked slightly drowsy.

Watching us, Sensei chuckled, saying, "I guess you didn't need me to tell you that."

"Well then, I'm heading back. It's been especially cold lately, so make sure neither of you catches a cold."

"Yes. Please take care as well, Sensei."

After watching Nagi give a slight bow, Sensei returned to the sports field.

"...She was a wonderful teacher, wasn't she?"

"Yeah. An amazingly wonderful teacher."

Nagi gazed at me with a slightly wistful look.

"Nagi?"

"I said this yesterday as well, but... I find myself wishing I had met you much, much earlier, Souta-kun."

"...I've thought that too, but who knows if we would have become close back then?"

"We would have."

Without a moment's hesitation, Nagi answered my question.

"Because it's you and me, Souta-kun."

Her eyes—and her face carried not a single hint of doubt.

"You're right."

I surely... no, absolutely would have fallen in love with Nagi at first sight back then too. And after learning about her inner self, I would have fallen in love with her even more.

While I felt a desire to peek into that alternate world...

"I'm completely happy with how things are now, after all. Being able to be together with you like this, Nagi."

"Fufu. That is certainly true. Right now is definitely the best."

Intertwining her fingers with mine, Nagi began walking.

"Where shall we head next?"

"Let's see... Middle school isn't that far, but the shopping mall is closer from here. I'm getting a little hungry, so want to head over there?"

"Yes! I'd love to look at clothes too!"

"Sure."

Conversing like that... Nagi's words kept echoing through my mind.

"Tomorrow will be more fun than today. The day after tomorrow will be more fun than tomorrow. Because I have Souta-kun... and Souta-kun has me."

Joy welled up, threatening to melt my expression into a grin.

"Nagi."

"What is it?"

"I love you."

Applying just a little more pressure to my hand, Nagi squeezed back in the same way.

"I love you too, Souta-kun."

A short exchange of just a couple of lines.

Yet that alone warmed my heart, filling it with pure happiness.

◆◆◆

"...! It's so big!"

"It's probably the only large commercial facility around here. With it being the end of the year, there'll likely be a huge crowd."

A large number of people were entering and exiting the mall... enough to make some people grimace just looking at it.

However, Nagi's smile never wavered as she gazed at the exterior with pure excitement.

"In that case... we must hold hands even more securely, then."

Saying that, Nagi gripped my hand tightly... and cradled it against her chest.

"Yeah."

"Yes! If we don't stick close, we'll get separated!"

While I thought that was obvious... seeing Nagi's smile brought me genuine joy. Feeling her warmth was just as wonderful, so I couldn't bring myself to stop her.

Well, just for today, it should be fine.

Normally, I'd need to consider the time, place, and occasion properly, but starting tomorrow, we could just act as usual.

...What did "as usual" even mean, though? Just walking beside each other... would be no different from before we started dating.

In that case, was holding hands acceptable? If so, was the way we held hands earlier considered safe? We were pressed quite closely together, though.

No good. I was losing track. I'd ask Eiji later.

Reaching that point in my thoughts, I shook my head.

This wasn't good. Getting lost in thought while being with Nagi.

Especially when we were out on an outing together... letting my mind wander was the height of insincerity.

Thinking that, I looked at Nagi beside me... only to find her staring intently at me. Her lips curved into a faint smile.

Looking closely, we had shifted slightly toward the edge of the path. Nagi must have guided us so we wouldn't get in the way of pedestrians.

"...Sorry. I was lost in thought for a bit."

"Fufu, it's quite alright. I love the face you make when you're thinking, Souta-kun."

Her gentle smile made my heart leap, and her words gently stroked my racing pulse.

Until I met Nagi, words filled with such affection... were rarely directed at me, outside of family. Eiji said things jokingly, though.

Perhaps that was why. It felt like an incredibly, remarkably mysterious sensation.

My heart skipped a beat at her words, quickening its pulse... yet warmth spread through my body like heat traveling through my veins from my chest.

When my family praised me, it was pure happiness. But when Nagi said such words, all sorts of other emotions swelled and mingled together. Not a single negative emotion among them.

...It might be far too late to realize it, but.

"I'm so happy."

I had no choice but to describe it simply as "happy."

I didn't know any other words. Purely a lack of vocabulary on my part, probably.

"I am too, you know."

Nagi's index finger gently bent, caressing the back of my hand.

It wasn't ticklish, nor did it hurt. Nagi simply continued stroking it with deep affection.

"It might sound like a cliche... but this is the happiest I've ever felt in my entire life. I am truly so happy."

Nagi's smile never faltered.

Back then, I had always watched her expressionless face. But she was so many, many times more charming now.

I couldn't help staring intently at Nagi's face.

In response, Nagi puffed her cheeks out slightly.

"It's been quite a struggle lately, you know? When I can't see you, Souta-kun... even when I'm alone, I catch myself smiling just thinking about you. If I don't press my cheeks like this, it won't go away."

Nagi pressed her cheeks with her other hand. Every single one of her gestures was completely adorable.

"Suzaka-san pointed it out to me, which made me realize it and feel a bit embarrassed."

"...I see."

"Still, I don't dislike it. It makes me feel like I'm together with you, Souta-kun. That is why I can work hard no matter what."

Working hard, huh... Nagi really did work hard. In her studies, and her classical Japanese dance lessons as well.

"...Is there anything you want?"

"Something I want?"

Even to myself, it sounded sudden. It was only natural for Nagi to be confused.

After tilting her head slightly, Nagi's eyes widened as if inspiration had struck.

"There is one thing. I have one."

"Oh, what is it?"

I wondered what Nagi would want. As long as it was something we could buy here, that would be great.

As I waited for Nagi's answer, she tapped the back of my hand with her finger—signaling with her eyes to lend her my ear. When I leaned closer, Nagi let go of my hand, cupped both of her hands around my ear, and whispered.

"I want you, Souta-kun."

Hearing that soft whisper—I thought my breath was going to stop.

No, it actually did stop. For a few seconds.

As for Nagi... she wasn't laughing. She was staring straight at me.

There was no "Just kidding" or "That was a lie."

"...A..."

My throat went hoarse, barely letting any sound out. I cleared my throat softly.

I decided to ignore the fact that the corners of Nagi's mouth were lifting.

Then, once more, I forced the words out.

"After we get back home, okay? People are watching."

"...!"

When I managed to meet her eyes and say that, Nagi's eyes flew wide open. Her fair face flushed red at an alarming speed. Her mouth opened and closed frantically as if trying to say something, before stopping.

After pressing her lips firmly together, Nagi took hold of my arm.

"Please come with me for a moment, Souta-kun."

"...Nagi?"

The shopping mall was right in front of us... yet Nagi began walking in an entirely different direction.

After walking for about five minutes, Nagi looked around as if searching for something.

"Over there should..."

Pulled along by the arm, I followed Nagi. The place she brought me to—was an alleyway. Well, calling it an alleyway might be an exaggeration; it was just two turns off the main street. There were no people around.

"Nagi?"

"I'm sorry. You were so adorable just now, Souta-kun, that I couldn't hold back."

Nagi untangled her hand. A faint warmth from Nagi lingered on my arm.

Her blue eyes stared intently into mine.

"I truly do want you right now, Souta-kun."

As if gathering her courage, Nagi clenched her fists tightly.

"Please. Kiss me."

I couldn't help doubting my own ears.

"...?!"

"I know. That we must consider the time, place, and occasion. But today... just for right now, please."

Nagi's face burned bright red, her eyes filled with heat.

This was an alleyway. Still, we hadn't gone deep inside. If someone looked, they could see us, though it wasn't a place anyone would willingly look into.

Of course, the chance of someone walking in wasn't zero. In fact, fewer pedestrians meant it was that much more dangerous.

...Even so, making Nagi wait any longer felt cruel.

After checking around to confirm no one was there... I looked back at Nagi.

"Nagi. You're getting a lecture later, okay?"

"Yes. Please scold me as much as you like."

"And to me, for not being able to resist... scold me too."

"My heart will ache, but I'll do my best to scold you."

Supporting Nagi with my right arm so her back wouldn't hit the wall, I pressed my lips against hers.

"...Nn."

Even through our thick clothes, Nagi's softness thoroughly transmitted to my entire body. Nagi's left hand wandered slightly, and when I brought my hand close, our fingers intertwined tightly.

The sweet breath leaking from Nagi's lips brushed past my cheek, tickling my ear.

A sweet, shivering pleasure ran down my spine.

This—was bad.

"...A little, more."

Following Nagi's request, I pressed our lips together once again.

Behind her faintly open eyelids, heat-filled blue eyes peeked through.

"I love you."

This was, bad.

Kissing in an unusual place. The sense of taboo stroked my heart, generating sweet pleasure. The fact that Nagi sought me out even while outdoors released waves of euphoria from my brain.

My thoughts blurred, becoming dyed entirely in Nagi. And the fact that—it made me feel so happy.

Even so.

"...Ah."

I pulled my lips away from Nagi's. Since it was an area shielded from the sun, the damp, cool air filled my lungs.

Yet precisely because of that, my thoughts cleared up sharply.

For a while, Nagi and I simply gazed at each other. The heat gradually receded from her blue eyes.

"...I-I'm so sorry."

"...No. I'm an accomplice."

It wasn't Nagi's fault alone. I had given permission, after all.

"Let's head back for now. This isn't a good place."

"Y-Yes!"

Holding hands with Nagi, we stepped out of the alleyway. We were able to leave without any incidents.

"U-Um... I am truly sorry."

"Don't apologize. I share the blame."

Even when I said that, the clouds over Nagi's eyes refused to clear.

"B-But..."

"I... was happy that you wanted me, Nagi. But that aside, secluded places like that are dangerous. Let's both be careful."

"Y-Yes."

We were fortunate not to run into anyone this time, but if someone had spotted us... especially delinquents, the thought alone was terrifying.

"You're right. While I knew today would be fine, I will be careful."

"...?"

I didn't quite understand what she meant by knowing today would be fine, but Nagi hugged my hand tightly and began walking.

"Shall we head over, then?"

"A-Ah, yeah....What do you want to do first? There's all sorts of things. Clothes, food, or anything else."

"It's a good time, so may we eat first?"

"Sure. There's plenty of food options, so let's look at the map together and decide."

"Yes!"

After all sorts of detours, we were finally able to enter the shopping mall.

◆◆◆

"Mmh..."

Nagi was locked in a fierce struggle against a hamburger. Perhaps because the wrapper was misbehaving, a dab of sauce had gotten onto the tip of her nose.

"Nagi."

"Ah, thank you very much....It is delicious, but rather difficult to eat."

When I wiped the tip of her nose with a tissue, Nagi's cheeks flushed red. While she ate fish with immaculate grace, she seemed clumsy with foods like this. Cute.

That said, I used to be just like Nagi in the past, so I kept my chuckles to a minimum.

"Still, I'm surprised you've never had a hamburger before, Nagi. It makes sense, though."

"The perception of it being unhealthy took precedence, I suppose. Even if I haven't eaten one before, I believe I could make one if I tried....Shall I make some next time?"

"...A hamburger made by you sounds intriguing, Nagi. By all means."

"Fufu, understood. Let's make some during winter break, then."

With that promise made, we continued eating our meal. By the way, after eating a few fries, Nagi had remarked, "These are... a bit heavy on the salt," looking somewhat hesitant, so we swapped them for my nuggets. The fries were indeed a bit on the salty side.

As we ate—I couldn't help noticing the gazes around us.

Being lunchtime, the food court was packed with people. Having Nagi in the middle of it made her stand out tremendously. Especially... while Nagi was quite famous around our school, around here she was a completely new face. Men and women of all ages were staring at Nagi.

Fortunately, none of my acquaintances seemed to be around.

"...Nagi, I'm sure you'll be fine, but don't wander too far from me, okay?"

"Of course."

While I mentioned people of all ages were looking, the gazes from young students were particularly intense....If it was just "Look how pretty she is," that would be fine. But quite a few guys were making rather vulgar remarks. If Nagi had been alone, she almost certainly would have been hit on.

"Sorry, Nagi. I didn't expect you to stand out this much."

"Please don't worry, Souta-kun. It's essentially the usual for me."

"Still..."

It certainly didn't feel great. Nagi giggled softly at my response.

"In that case, Souta-kun."

"What?"

"Please open your mouth. I will feed you like we always do."

Startled for a moment by Nagi's words... I quickly caught on to her intention.

I obediently opened my mouth. Nagi smiled—and placed a nugget with a bite taken out of it into my mouth. And rather than tossing it in, she firmly inserted her fingers into my mouth as well.

"Is it delicious, Souta-kun?"

"...Yeah. Delicious."

Of course, we never went this far normally. Not deliberately feeding me something half-eaten, nor deliberately pushing her fingers into my mouth....In the first place, foods eaten by hand rarely appeared on our table to begin with.

And this was remarkably effective. Whispers spread through the surroundings, and disappointed groans could be heard from some people. While she still stood out, the gazes filled with ulterior motives from earlier vanished.

"S-Souta-kun."

"...Nagi?"

Hearing my name called next, I instinctively called hers back. A feeling of deja vu washed over me.

"M-May I have one fry as well, please?"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes. A lot might disagree with my body, but a single fry is within the range of being delicious."

"Alright."

Taking out a fry, I held it out to Nagi. Surrounding people cast "Whoa, are you serious?" looks our way... and I could feel my own face heating up. Nagi was turning red as well. Even so, she didn't stop... slowly bringing her face closer.

However, a slight miscalculation occurred here. I had expected Nagi to take the fry around the halfway mark... but Nagi took it with more momentum than anticipated.

In other words, what happened was: Nagi's lips pressed against my fingers. Softly... almost as if kissing my fingers.

Not expecting that herself, Nagi froze completely. A few seconds of silence hung between us.

Then, with her face flushing bright red, Nagi pulled back from my fingers. Chewing and swallowing the fry completely before speaking was entirely due to her personality and upbringing.

"P-Pardon me."

"N-No, I don't mind."

My heart pounded furiously. If we were inside the house, it wouldn't have been like this. We were outside, and in a situation where we were actively being watched.

"W-Whoa... so jealous."

"Kyaa, did you see that? Hey, did you see that just now? She totally kissed his fingers!"

"Didn't even hesitate. Fresh couples are so cute..."

"C-Cute, what was that, so cuuuute!"

The surrounding voices resonated loudly against my eardrums. My face, my face was burning intensely.

"...I-It's delicious, isn't it?"

"Y-Yeah."

Trying to change the atmosphere, Nagi murmured, and I managed to reply before taking a bite of the remaining burger.

Even so, the heat in my face refused to settle, and my racing heart showed no signs of calming down....Earlier, even if it was in a secluded spot, we had kissed. We hugged regularly, and held hands outside.

Yet—when my hand reached for the drink and brushed against hers, both of our bodies jumped. Placed close together, we had happened to reach for them at the exact same moment.

"I-I'm sorry."

"No... let's just not worry about this. Both of us."

Trying my best to ignore the surrounding voices, I moistened my dry throat with the drink.

"...I..."

Nagi took a sip of her drink as well, murmuring softly. A voice that was likely barely audible to anyone but me.

"Um, you see them from time to time, don't you? People who, without caring about onlookers... um. Kiss, or walk with an arm around each other's waist."

"A-Ah, yeah. They're out there."

"Those people are quite amazing, aren't they?...For me, at least right now, that seems difficult."

"...Don't people like that just get lost in their own world so they don't care? Besides, that kind of thing... feels a bit difficult for me to do, too."

While I simply thought it was impressive, some people might find it unpleasant.

And besides—

"Kissing outside... is something I don't really want to do."

"Um, why is that? Is it because of people watching, after all?"

"Yeah. And also..."

Unable to find the right words, I cleared my throat once before continuing.

"I don't really want to show Nagi's cute side to other people."

"...!"

"Possessiveness, I guess. Sorry."

Correcting myself in embarrassment, I covered my face with my hands and looked down.

"I-I see....No, that makes me happy. Um, so very happy."

Hearing those words, I looked up to see Nagi wiping her lips with a pocket tissue, before using her sleeve to hide her mouth from the surroundings.

"I'm sorry. I'm just so happy that I feel like I might lose my mind."

"...I see."

And so, the two of us remained like that for quite a while.

It seemed it would take a bit longer for the heat in both my face and Nagi's to finally cool down.