Yuu 326-330

Title: No Matter How Far the Destination, a Train Always Has Its Final Stop

“Hahaha…”

Yuigahama shrank her shoulders awkwardly. Her large, bright eyes kept staring at the side of his face.

“So, something really did happen?”

“It’s been a week since I’ve seen you two together. Natsukawa-san’s been avoiding talking about you too. Everyone’s guessing if you’ve broken up…”

Yuu maintained his relaxed demeanor, walking slowly on the asphalt street. “It doesn’t matter. After all, what we need to do won’t change. The good thing is, Masuzu herself understands that.”

“Then what about you, Yuu-kun?” Yuigahama hesitated. Her small fists, hidden under her thick jacket, clenched slowly. She asked cautiously, “Did you… confess to Natsukawa-san and get rejected?”

“…”

His crisp footsteps stopped abruptly. Yuu halted in place.

Yuigahama, a step ahead, turned and saw a rare expression on his face: genuine shock.

“Yui… did you suddenly get enlightened by some sage, or did you secretly read the script?”

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” Yuigahama laughed wryly. “I was just guessing! Who knew I’d hit the mark… And honestly, it might have something to do with me.”

“Oh? Tell me more.” Yuu showed an interested expression and resumed walking.

Since he hadn’t promised Masuzu to keep it a secret, and Yuigahama didn’t feel the need to hide anything from him, she candidly recounted the entire conversation from that weekend in as much detail as possible.

Of course, she focused more on Masuzu and only vaguely mentioned her own feelings—after all, saying “like” in front of Yuu was already hard enough.

At the intersection near the station, while waiting at a red light, Yuigahama exhaled a white breath and said softly, “…Natsukawa-san definitely likes you, but she keeps forcing herself to deny that feeling, denying what’s called liking or love.”

“It’s almost like her biggest weakness. When she can’t argue back, she’d rather run away, as if she becomes a completely different person, far more fragile than a girl in love.”

The light turned green, and she and Yuu stepped forward, crossing the zebra crossing together.

“So, when I noticed she wasn’t clinging to you like before and started avoiding you, I started thinking—did you do the same thing as me? After thinking it over, the most likely scenario was that you confessed to her. The kind of confession asking her to date you officially. Only that would make Natsukawa-san react so strongly.”

Yuigahama tilted her head. Her face was hidden behind her scarf, with only her eyes squinting into crescent moons. “And if Yuu-kun likes her, you’d definitely say it straightforwardly!”

“Brilliant analysis. I’m dubbing you Zhuge Dango.”

Yuu couldn’t help but clap in admiration. He’d never dare call her a dumb Dango again in the future.

When it came to romance, Yuigahama’s social and emotional intelligence might be on par with his!

“But why were you so sure? Can’t I secretly like someone else?”

Yuigahama answered casually, “You’re not me. Secretly liking someone doesn’t suit your personality.”

As soon as the words slipped out, as if she’d accidentally revealed a secret, she pursed her lips. Her ears under her pink hair turned red, and her gaze darted guiltily.

(We’re good friends now, so stop bringing up that I like him! It’ll make things awkward!)

Seeing her expression, Yuu squinted and smiled. He didn’t say much, naturally steering the conversation back.

“Pretty much as you said. After I confessed to that woman, she didn’t reject me—she just went cold on me.”

Frowning, Yuigahama bit her lip with a sad expression. “So it’s true… Why did it turn out like this when you both like each other? Isn’t it normal for people who love each other to be together?”

“Because for her, the abnormal is the best.”

Yuu looked up, gazing at the sky above the station’s logo, shrouded in gray clouds.

“She doesn’t want normal things that can disappear anytime. She only wants something abnormal, something that’s just hers. If I hadn’t confessed so seriously, maybe one day we could’ve kept this kind of relationship, all the way to marriage, proving that even something fake can be more real than the real thing.”

“Living happily without love—that’s Natsukawa Masuzu’s dream.”

Crossing the zebra crossing, Yuu still wore a faint smile. “I just went and denied it, tore it apart… It’s no wonder she doesn’t want to deal with me.”

“Because I was the first to betray her and side with the camp of love.”

There’s a saying that those involved are confused, while onlookers see clearly.

But right now, Yuu could always see Masuzu’s and others’ feelings clearly. He knew where the problem lay and how to provide the answer.

After all, only by deeply understanding someone—their happiness, sadness, strengths, and weaknesses—and knowing why you’re by their side can you love them wholeheartedly.

Know yourself and your enemy—how could you be confused?

“I see…”

Quietly staring at the softened side of his face, after Yuu finished speaking, Yuigahama lowered her head and gave a resigned smile. “It seems you really understand Natsukawa-san well… Hmm, I thought I could help you, but since you see this issue so clearly, if I meddle, I might just make things more complicated.”

“When I need your help, I’ll say so directly.” Yuu pulled his hand from his jacket pocket, ruffled her hair, and smiled casually. “For now, let’s just go with the flow. Everything will sort itself out sooner or later.”

“Yeah, you’re right.”

Giggling shyly, Yuigahama didn’t resist, letting her head sway slightly under his hand. “But this is surprising. I thought you’d say, ‘I don’t need your help; I can handle it myself.’”

She deliberately spoke in a deep voice. Yuu mimicked her, using a weary tone. “Because compared to before, your skills have grown to the point where I have to take you seriously.”

“Ugh, such a smug tone!”

Yuigahama wrinkled her nose in disgust. But soon, she couldn’t hold back a joyful smile.

“Really? I’ve actually improved… Compared to before, have I reached a level where I can stand on the same ground as you?”

Facing her earnest question, Yuu fell silent.

“Hmm… Honestly, you’re still a bit short. But you’re almost there! Keep it up, Yui!”

To be honest, Yuu wasn’t good at sweet-talking or pleasing girls.

But to outsiders, all his actions seemed deliberate. He always did things that made people exasperated.

Her face immediately fell. Yuigahama elbowed him, hitting him with all her strength a few times to vent her frustration.

“Can’t you make people happy for just a bit longer?! Idiot! Clueless!”

Before they knew it, the station was right in front of them.

The train cut through the cold winter wind, gliding calmly and steadily toward its final stop.

-

Title: Wanting to Cling but Unable To

At the gate of Sobu High School, a large bus was already parked.

Though it was still early, many students who usually arrived early walked to school, casting envious glances at the kendo club members in their sports uniforms. One of the privileges of competing in the national championships was skipping school for two days. Combined with the weekend, they had four consecutive days off, plus a school-funded trip to Kyoto. This made others unable to suppress their envy.

Especially other sports clubs, whose strength wasn’t enough to qualify for nationals, they couldn’t enjoy such perks. They could only offer cheers and encouragement as they passed by. Then, during their own club activities, they’d work hard to become the ones envied.

Yuu and Yuigahama weren’t shy at all. They walked to the school gate while chatting, heading toward the bus.

They arrived about twenty minutes earlier than the scheduled time. The Service Club only had the two of them, but most of the kendo club members were already there. This showed how excited, hopeful, and eager they were for the championship. Everyone’s faces displayed restless anticipation. Some even took out their bamboo swords and started practicing basic moves.

Yuigahama looked around. Not being very familiar with the kendo club members, she didn’t greet them. She just stood beside Yuu, slightly surprised, and said, “This is the first time we’ve arrived earlier than Yukinon. Whenever we go to the club, Yukinon’s always the first one there.”

“She’s the club president, after all. If she doesn’t come early, who’ll open the door?” Answering casually, Yuu raised a hand to greet the kendo club president.

When his gaze met other kendo club members, he shrugged as they bowed respectfully.

It seemed they had high expectations for him…

“That’s not the point.” Yuigahama blinked her round eyes. She said enthusiastically, “I mean, if we beat her to the clubroom next time and ambush her, would Yukinon be shocked?”

“That’s a pointless move. If you want to, do it yourself.” Yuu rolled his eyes, clearly uninterested in surprising Yukino.

He checked the time. “She’ll probably show up in ten minutes. She’s got obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Logically, as long as there’s no trouble on the way, she’ll arrive exactly ten minutes before the set time.”

“Ohh, that’s totally Yukino’s style.” Yuigahama nodded in understanding, then smiled at Yuu teasingly. “Is this what they call ‘knowing your enemy best’? You’re always arguing with her, but you know her so well. You two have a great relationship~”

“You have to know yourself and your enemy to win. It’s got nothing to do with having a good relationship.” Completely unfazed, Yuu said casually, “And Yukinoshita’s too straightforward. As long as you’re a bit smarter than her, you can see right through her. It’s not just me; others could do the same.”

“If Yukinon heard that, she’d definitely argue with you again… Though you call it arguing, it looks more like bickering.” Yuigahama gave a wry smile. “And I don’t think anyone else could outdo Yukinon in everything like you do, Yuu-kun.”

“Oh, really?” Yuu’s expression turned slightly odd. He couldn’t help grumbling inwardly.

(That’s because you’ve never seen Haruno-san when she’s serious.)

(When she teases her little sister, she doesn’t just beat Yukino—she toys with her in the palm of her hand. I can’t match her in that.)

As these thoughts crossed his mind, a red sports car suddenly roared into the school gate with a deafening screech of brakes. After a cool drift and parking maneuver, it stopped precisely in the teacher’s parking spot.

The engine cut off, and a beautiful woman… no, correction. The JUMP-style boxing teacher, Hiratsuka Shizuka, stepped out of the car.

“Yo, you guys are here early.”

She tossed the cigarette in her mouth to the ground, stomped it out, then picked up the extinguished butt and slipped it into the pocket of her white blazer. She waved at them casually. She still looked more like a gang boss than a teacher.

“Hiratsuka-sensei, good morning! Are you coming to Kyoto too?” Unlike Yuu, Yuigahama greeted obediently, then asked with a hint of hope.

Hiratsuka spread her arms. “I’d love to, but I’ve got classes to teach… Have fun there. When you’re back, bring me some Kyoto souvenirs.”

She looked at Yuu, gave his shoulder a firm pat, and grinned brightly.

“Come on, kid! If you can help the kendo club win the national championship, I’ll treat you to ramen!”

“Can you get prize money too?” Enduring her bear-like pat without changing expression, Yuu asked, puzzled.

“Of course. I’ve reported your participation as an external member of the kendo club as a Service Club activity.” Hiratsuka spoke as if she were one of them. She puffed out her full, mature chest proudly. “Thanks to that, Yuigahama and the others can join with club funding… That’s right, thank my brilliance!”

Yuu suddenly understood.

Though she couldn’t go, as a cunning adult, Hiratsuka wouldn’t let herself lose out. She’d naturally used her authority again to benefit herself and the entire Service Club.

“Hiratsuka-sensei is amazing!” Yuigahama, the biggest beneficiary, clapped and admired her sincerely.

For something that didn’t harm him and helped his friends, Yuu had no objections. He let her boast, even using the excuse of encouragement to keep patting his increasingly steel-like muscles.

Realizing his body was getting tougher, Hiratsuka turned and entered the school building with an oddly regretful expression.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

After chatting with the teacher for about ten minutes, Yuu and Yuigahama exchanged glances and turned to the school gate simultaneously.

Soon after, like a white plum blossom swaying in the snow, a girl with black hair approached in thick winter clothing. She looked elegant and simple.

“Good morning.” Her pale face was hidden in her scarf. Her melodious voice sounded slightly muffled, but her sky-blue eyes remained bright and sharp.

Yukino glanced at Yuigahama and raised an eyebrow lightly. “Rare to see you two here so early.”

“Hehehe~” Yuigahama knew she was mainly teasing her. She smiled shyly, then stepped forward and hugged her arm affectionately. “I’m going to Kyoto with Yukinon! It’s my first time traveling far with friends. Of course I’m excited and wanted to leave early~”

“Are you an elementary schooler on a field trip? Were you too excited to sleep last night?” Yukino sighed resignedly. She swayed slightly, looking like a tourist hugged by a mascot.

But since it felt warm enough, she didn’t resist at all. She let herself sink into Yuigahama’s soft embrace, then shifted her gaze, looking at the kendo club members near the bus as if nothing happened.

“Is everyone here?”

“No, one more.”

They both almost instantly knew who Yuu meant.

Yukino glanced at him. Her calm eyes said nothing. Yuigahama spoke in a low, worried voice:

“If Natsukawa-san decides not to come…”

“I’ll call her.” Yuu pulled out his phone. The thought of using his [I See You] ability to peek at what Masuzu was doing crossed his mind.

But before he could, as if the saying “speak of the devil and she appears” came true, Masuzu showed up at the school gate, not even a minute after Yukino.

Her shimmering silver hair swayed listlessly behind her. She walked slowly and said to them in a hoarse, weak voice:

“Morning. I’m not late.”

“No, you’re not late…” Yukino paused, her tone slightly odd. “No wonder I felt someone following me on the way. It was you?”

“Sorry, I’m not used to going to school with others. I didn’t expect to run into you on the way.”

Masuzu explained casually. She pulled up her mask. Her sapphire eyes, usually cunning and bright, lacked their usual spark, only squinting slightly to hide it. “Can we board the bus yet? I’ve got a bit of a cold and want to rest.”

“A cold? Are you okay, Natsukawa-san…” Yuigahama looked at her worriedly.

Masuzu shook her head. She stood silently, letting her silver hair cover half her face.

Her slender body under her coat was slightly hunched. Her skin, visible above the mask, was as white as snow. She looked so frail, as if a strong gust could knock her over.

Among everyone there, only Yuu felt puzzled. How could Masuzu, who’d taken the Life Potion, catch a cold so easily?

Even Sora, who’d been sickly, had recovered. It wasn’t much different from white blood cells losing to red ones.

Without hesitation, Yuu stepped forward and brushed the hair from Masuzu’s forehead. His warm palm pressed against her cold, smooth forehead.

Masuzu froze instantly. She widened her eyes, staring at him in disbelief. As if his hand had seized control of her body, she stayed still, letting him transfer burning warmth.

“Hmph… I see.” Yuu muttered thoughtfully, as if understanding something. He withdrew his hand.

“Then rest well and don’t push yourself. Sleep soundly when we reach the inn, and only go out to have fun when you feel better.”

He smiled and casually patted her hair, as he often did.

“Mm~” As if captivated by his gentle voice, Masuzu nodded obediently, her eyes filled with dependence and a sense of security.

When her senses returned, she shuddered. She stepped back two paces warily, slightly panting, like a priestess nearly tempted by a demon into an abyss.

“You, what are you doing?”

“What am I doing? Isn’t it normal for a boyfriend to do this?” Yuu asked back innocently.

Masuzu fell silent. Though she wore a mask, he could guess her emotions from her tone and eyes.

“Normal… Haven’t you noticed how I’ve been treating you lately?”

“I’ve noticed, and honestly, I’m a bit hurt. This is the first time we’ve talked since that day.”

Even so, Yuu said casually, “But we haven’t broken up. As long as we’re still together, you’re my girlfriend. This relationship won’t change for now—no matter what you think, for me, that’s how it is, just like this.”

“…”

After a brief silence, Masuzu coldly turned her face away, as if unwilling to say more. “Do whatever you want… Until I can sort out my feelings, I hope you won’t keep bothering me. I also don’t want to spread my cold to others.”

Her attitude made Yuu feel like a man chasing a goddess who only saw him as a tool.

Sorting out feelings for over a week and still not done? Not to mention the cold—it was just a convenient excuse to wear a mask and avoid him.

Yuu knew all this, but he didn’t voice it.

That didn’t mean he wasn’t angry at being ignored, avoided, and rejected by her.

As petty revenge, Yuu used [I Predict Your Move] on her.

Since gaining this ability, aside from testing it on Sora, he’d only used it once on Sugou. During the autumn presentation, he predicted Sugou’s intent to escape and waited in the car to trap him—

After that, he forgot about the ability.

As long as he closely observed a girl’s thoughts, he didn’t need mind-reading, let alone this downgraded version—desire detection—that only read the strongest thought at the moment. The old Yuu never thought he’d need it. He also felt it was disrespectful, so it went unused for over a month.

He used it now just to know what Masuzu, cold and distant on the surface, wanted most—if his guess was right, it was probably the same thing.

Picturing Masuzu’s face in his mind, the system promptly gave a hint:

(I really want to cling to Yuu-kun, I really want to cling, really want to cling, I don’t care even if I get pregnant, I’ll cling to him until I die, ooooh aaaaaaaaah—)

Indeed, this was Masuzu’s strongest thought, even as she acted cold and turned away, not even looking at him…

What a mind-breaking thought! Yuu could barely recognize the word “cling” anymore.

“This woman really hasn’t changed one bit…”

He shook his head resignedly but couldn’t suppress a smile. For some reason, his heart calmed. The warmth dispelled the lingering gloom in his chest.

Though she avoided and refused to face him, Masuzu’s feelings for him hadn’t diminished at all. She just needed an answer to convince herself—for Yuu, knowing this was enough.

The person he loved also loved him. Humans are simple creatures who can be satisfied with that. He was no exception.

Precisely because of this, he had to write an ending for Masuzu’s fairytale that was no longer confusing.

As he thought this, the system gave another poorly timed hint:

[Would you like to use the ability? Once used, the host will uncontrollably cling to the target until…]

(Enough, don’t continue. Just say you want me to die socially. I’d have to be crazy to agree.)

With a twitching mouth, Yuu shut off the system.

At that moment, the kendo club members called for them to board.

-

Title: A Small Conflict on the Bus

“Everyone’s ready to go. Tenkuji-kun, is your group complete?”

“All here. We can leave anytime.”

“Then please board.”

Right on the scheduled departure time, the kendo club members boarded the bus one by one. After they were all on, Yuu climbed aboard with the three girls.

Although they were the cause of this situation, Kanade and Iroha didn’t join the trip to Kyoto to watch the matches.

First, because they weren’t Service Club members or Yuu’s girlfriend, their reasons for requesting leave weren’t strong enough.

Second, when it came to studies, Kanade had a serious personality and felt that studying was her responsibility as a student, rather than going to spectate. And while Iroha wasn’t as serious, she couldn’t argue against Kanade’s words: “You need to study well so everyone can trust you when you join the student council.”

In the end, she had to give up and stay at school to study.

The seats on the bus were pre-arranged. The kendo club reserved the four front seats for them.

Naturally, the pairing was: Yukino + Yuigahama, Yuu + Masuzu. Those with good relationships sat together.

After all, given the dynamics between Yuigahama and Masuzu, and Yukino and Yuu, no other combination was possible…

“Sorry, I’d like to switch seats.”

Without giving anyone time to react, Masuzu politely and flatly pulled Yuigahama to sit in the back row.

“…”

What was she up to now?

Silence fell for a few seconds. The other three exchanged glances, their expressions slightly odd.

“Um… Natsukawa-san.”

Yuigahama gave a wry smile and asked, puzzled, “It’s fine if you don’t want to sit with Yuu-kun, but why drag me along too?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Masuzu propped her head with one hand. Her expression didn’t change as she answered, “No matter what, Yuu-kun… Tenkuji-kun is my boyfriend. Even if I don’t want to be close to him right now, I can’t let you two sit together.”

“Yukinoshita-san is fine. She’s safer; I trust her completely.”

“…Safer?”

Hearing that casual tone, like a cat whose tail had been stepped on, Yukino’s expression turned icy. Her blue eyes, like cold stars, held a spark, but they reflected a chill below zero.

“Natsukawa-san, though saying this makes me nauseous, countless couples have broken up because of my beauty since I was young, you know? I have no reason to be underestimated by you.”

“Even if those are just words said in anger, I hope you’ll think before speaking. Don’t casually reveal the complete lack of logic in them.”

In contrast to her sharp, cutting words, Yuigahama, after realizing the situation, wasn’t angry at all. She even sneaked a glance at Yuu, giggling happily, then coughed to regain her seriousness under his confused stare.

“That was harsh. Did I touch a sore spot? If so, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it; please forgive me.”

Masuzu apologized sincerely, but her eyes remained flat as still water, looking out the window as if it wasn’t her concern.

“If you’re not convinced, ask him yourself whether he’d like a girl like you.”

“…Hmph, getting provoked by words like that shows I’m still not calm enough.”

The corners of her lips curved into a cruel, beautiful smile. Yukino casually brushed her long hair with her pale hand. Her voice was cold and clear. “I don’t care about that man’s tastes. I’m just confident in my own charm.”

“So…” Though fire burned in her eyes, she remained proud and narcissistic, staring at Yuu unwaveringly.

“What’s your answer? Say it directly.”

As if she had no doubt he wouldn’t lie—or was certain he’d only tell the truth and it would be the answer she expected—Yukino didn’t even realize she’d developed an odd trust in Yuu.

“What does this have to do with me?”

Snapping out of his daze, Yuu faced the stares of the three girls with a confused expression.

Yukino looked at him calmly.

Yuigahama smiled wryly, unable to intervene.

Masuzu peeked with the corner of her eye.

Under their gazes, Yuu sighed resignedly. After thinking for a moment, he said to Yukino:

“Do you want the truth or a lie?”

“Haaah…” As if getting a headache, Yukino pressed her forehead with her thumb, looking helpless. “I’ve always thought people who answer a question with a question are either jerks or idiots. It seems my guess wasn’t wrong.”

Yuu spread his hands. “I’m not a dumb jerk. I’m just a little considerate of your feelings.”

Yukino shook her head.

“Forget the useless lies. If you want to lie for your girlfriend’s sake, I don’t care. Either way, I can tell the difference between lies and truth. It’s enough for me to feel like I’ve won.”

“Tch.” Masuzu clicked her tongue in annoyance. She suddenly felt she’d made the wrong choice.

“Fine, then I’ll give my own opinion.”

Yuu glanced at Masuzu, who was deliberately ignoring him, and shrugged casually. “Isn’t this just a comparison between curvy and slim types?”

“Yukinoshita, though you’re indeed smaller in some areas compared to those two, that could be seen as humility—”

A massive, chilling murderous intent arose. The lips behind the mask curved.

Yuu paused, then continued, “But that’s also the average level for a high school girl. As for you, from temperament to appearance to body proportions, everything’s above the standard of an ordinary pretty girl. That’s an undeniable fact.”

“Especially your legs—beautifully long, slender, without a hint of fat. They look great with knee-high socks or pantyhose. Your feminine charm shines through…”

Her slender fingers awkwardly brushed her hair. Her sapphire-blue eyes slowly reddened.

“In conclusion, both types are equally matched. I quite like them both.”

Like a critic who’d just licked his lips, Yuu delivered his conclusion with a flat expression, utterly unfazed by his listeners’ reactions.

After his words faded, silence returned.

A heavy pressure seemed to weigh on their shoulders.

Yuigahama instinctively leaned toward the aisle. She felt the window beside her was practically freezing.

“Honest but disgusting commentary. Impressive that you said it without hesitation… But thanks for the compliment.”

After a moment, Yukino was the first to break the silence.

-

Title: All That’s Sought Is an Answer

Yukino sighed resignedly, trying to appear calm as usual, but her gaze couldn’t help darting around. Her hands awkwardly tugged her skirt downward, attempting to cover above her knees.

Her thighs brushed lightly together, the fabric faintly rustling. Her usually firm demeanor seemed to soften slightly.

Unfortunately, Yukino’s embarrassment lasted only a few seconds before she quickly regained her vigilance.

“But I didn’t expect you to have such perverted thoughts about me during club activities… I can understand that sometimes men can’t control their eyes, but if you dare touch me carelessly, I’ll immediately activate the anti-harassment alarm on my phone!”

Yuu rolled his eyes and said without hesitation, “Relax. Your charm isn’t strong enough to make me commit a crime. I won’t touch you at all.”

“I hope you remember what you said today.” Yukino snorted coldly, feeling relieved yet somehow irritated.

Yuigahama glanced back and forth between their expressions. She seemed to sense something and felt confused but couldn’t find proof. She quickly shifted her gaze to Masuzu beside her and asked cautiously:

“Natsukawa-san, Yuu-kun’s already said that… Do you want to switch seats?”

“…”

Her words were like a stone tossed into the sea.

As if everything that just happened was a bad dream, as if all she saw and heard was an illusion she refused to accept.

Her long hair obscured her expression against the cold windowpane. Masuzu pinched her nose behind her mask, closed her eyes, and let the world sink into boundless darkness.

“I want to sleep.”

“Then don’t disturb her. Come on, sit down.”

Yuu’s expression didn’t change as he continued, “Club president, window or aisle? I’m fine with either.”

Which position would be easiest to defend if attacked?

That thought crossed Yukino’s mind. She then shifted slightly. “Aisle.”

Under Yuigahama’s hesitant gaze, Yuu sat in the seat in front of Masuzu.

Yukino lifted her skirt, sat upright beside him, and removed her jacket.

There was no physical contact between them. They kept an appropriate distance, like classmates who happened to sit together on a bus.

The girl looked cold and elegant. Her slender jade hands tucked her long black hair behind her ear. Her gaze remained lowered, not shifting toward the man beside her.

But from the corner of his eye, Yuu could see a faint flush behind her pale ears and how carefully she draped her jacket over her legs.

(Strange, she’s usually so narcissistic, but a little praise makes her shy…)

Yuu pouted and turned back to the window.

The bus carrying them slowly moved forward. The streets they passed blurred like a painting in reverse, soon fading from memory.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Praising another girl’s legs and saying they’re your type in front of your girlfriend is clearly a suicidal move. Good kids with normal brains shouldn’t imitate it. If you don’t have a girlfriend, pretend I didn’t say anything.

But in an unusual situation, Yuu chose an unusual approach.

He still remembered what Masuzu said that night:

<You’re so gentle that I, who can’t give anything back, want to run away.>

—Meaning, the gentler he was, the further Masuzu would flee.

However, Yuu didn’t want to deliberately hurt Masuzu either, because the first person to get hurt would be himself.

So, now he had to keep his distance.

Not too gentle, nor too harsh—then he’d follow her wishes, staying as cold as when they first met, and at the right moment, conquer her completely.

That was Yuu’s current plan.

Figuring out how to make his stubborn girlfriend face her own feelings was quite a challenge for him—Yukinoshita Haruno was different, not comparable.

“It’s only the first day…”

Sighing, Yuu prepared to use [I Predict Your Move] again.

This was the third time he’d used this ability on Masuzu.

He used it once earlier during the seating arrangement, learning that while Masuzu said she didn’t want to sit with him, her heart was crying out sadly:

(I want to sit next to Yuu-kun on the trip, lean on his shoulder to sleep, breathe in his scent until I’m energized, secretly play with his stuff where no one can see, sit on his lap…)

It was truly sanity-draining to witness.

And whether it was just his imagination or not, Masuzu now seemed like a lioness cornered at a cliff’s edge. Her thoughts were far more perverse, sensitive, and extreme than usual.

After bracing himself for another sanity hit, Yuu activated his ability. He pictured Masuzu’s face in his mind, waiting for the system’s hint.

“…”

Unexpectedly, as if the target had stopped thinking, he received only a blank, empty sheet.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

In their eyes, there was only each other.

“Yukinoshita, if you want to sleep, sleep properly. Don’t lean your head on me.”

“Hmph, dream about that when we get to the inn. I’d like to say the same—don’t try touching my legs while I’m asleep.”

“Heh, who’d want to touch your bony legs?”

“Lies. You’re getting better at lying.”

“Then I’m lying about this too. Don’t think I didn’t notice how much your body’s swaying. If I don’t remind you, you know what’ll happen, right?”

“…That was an accident, and it hasn’t happened!”

During the journey, everything was quiet. Only the steady sound of breathing and the air conditioning filled the bus, a peaceful warmth enveloping its interior.

So, all the dialogue above was conveyed through the glances between Yuu and Yukino.

“I’m too lazy to deal with you. I’m resting.”

After sneering at each other in disgust, they simultaneously turned away.

Yukino straightened her back, closed her eyes, and began to rest.

Meanwhile, Yuu gazed at the scenery outside the window. His expression grew slightly serious as he thought about the four-day trip’s plan.

Not needing gentle treatment didn’t mean he should deliberately flirt with other girls to make Masuzu jealous. That would likely backfire.

If Masuzu gave up and chose to return to Sweden, Yuu would have to go to the airport and bring her back—he didn’t believe a decision made in such a state was well-thought-out. So, he’d naturally keep his promise, taking her back before she could leave the country.

But unfortunately, what Masuzu cared about most, and what most easily triggered her emotions, was his relationship with other girls. To pull her out of her avoidance, jealousy was an unavoidable step.

For now, he might have achieved a small result…

Yuu wasn’t sure, as he suddenly couldn’t detect Masuzu’s strongest thoughts anymore. He could only put [I Predict Your Move] back on the bench and rely on his sharp observations to act.

Slowly, he felt like a cunning woman toying with a man chasing her.

Pursuing and yielding, advancing and retreating methodically, planning everything meticulously.

All to make the other person itch with curiosity until they surrender.

Wasn’t that what scheming people did?

—But who knew, all he wanted was an answer to his confession.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

From Chiba to Kyoto, it was three in the afternoon.

-

Title: The Lie Detector

Honestly, taking a bus to Kyoto was four times slower than the Shinkansen.

Though during the trip, people could watch movies, sing karaoke, eat, and chat freely. Sometimes they could even stop at rest areas to sightsee or shop.

But for many, it was better to take the Shinkansen to reach Kyoto faster, drop off their luggage, and enjoy the tourist spots.

That’s what Yukino thought.

Throughout the journey, she quietly grumbled about the kendo club’s problematic travel plan. She regretted not thinking of this earlier and reacting.

Then, in a spot she (thought) Yuu couldn’t see, she secretly rubbed her firm, round backside. Her slender brows furrowed slightly, as if numb from sitting.

Laughing to himself, Yuu could understand. After all, it wasn’t just her. During this long bus ride, unlike the trained kendo club members, Yuigahama and Masuzu also suffered from sitting too long. In the second half, they basically closed their eyes, detaching their consciousness from their bodies, until they passed through the long tunnel at the prefecture border and arrived in Kyoto, only then snapping back to reality.

The old city’s cultural atmosphere could be felt from the scenery passing by the window.

From the scattered wooden-style old houses on the outskirts, the red torii gates connecting heaven and earth, to the modern steel buildings in the city center.

Everything in Kansai impressed people from Kanto. Even if they’d been to Kyoto for school trips or family vacations, the similar yet distinct style and scenery still captivated them. The fatigue from the journey turned into fresh enthusiasm.

Having fun had to be put aside for now. The bus’s first stop in Kansai was Kyoto University, the venue for this year’s National Kendo Championships.

The old, historic school gate was simpler and narrower than most universities, exuding Kyoto’s characteristic relaxed vibe.

As they looked, the gate and the tree in front of it formed a simple yet profoundly significant everyday scene.

Yuu and the others got off the bus. While gathering, his eyes kept drifting toward the university students cycling by.

People in casual clothes, backpacks seemingly stuffed with items, rode around campus everywhere. Though their cycling was fast and reckless, resembling the chaotic traffic of the capital, it strangely felt calm and harmonious. Everyone overtook or was overtaken peacefully, without the annoying sound of bells.

Besides, high school students from various regions, with their school emblems on their sports uniforms, created a unique new scene.

Including them. In front of the gymnasium, heads turned. Those innocent-looking faces hid excitement. After cheering each other on, they shouted with fervor.

“National champions! Keep pushing forward!”

The burning wave of enthusiasm seemed to pierce through the entire winter, tearing apart the rain clouds and creating sunlight.

As the kendo club members eagerly discussed whether they should also shout to boost morale after registering, Yuu looked up and saw a red banner hanging outside the gymnasium.

“National Swordsmanship Tournament…” Yuigahama read it aloud for him. “So, it’s not just kendo?”

“Japanese kendo and Western fencing. This year’s national championship combines both events, which has sparked a lot of controversy.” Yukino, who had done her research, explained, “Mornings are for kendo, afternoons for fencing. If you’re interested, you can stay tomorrow to watch, but you probably wouldn’t understand.”

“Not understanding is fine, as long as it’s cool!” Yuigahama struck a fencing pose, then hesitated. “But if we watch the matches, we won’t have enough time to explore Kyoto, right?”

“Your goal here is just to have fun…” Yukino sighed resignedly. “This isn’t a school trip, Yuigahama-san.”

Yuigahama argued, “What else can we do? We can’t help with anything. We’re just here to cheer… From a certain perspective, it’s basically a free vacation.”

“Even so, please come with the intent to learn and explore this culturally rich old city. I suggest you join me at Kyoto University’s Comprehensive Museum…”

“Yuu-kun, you agree, right?” As Yukino said words that instinctively gave her a headache, Yuigahama quickly changed the subject. “Hiratsuka-sensei also told us to have fun… Yuu-kun?”

She called him two or three times before Yuu snapped out of it and looked at them.

“Huh? What’s up?”

Yuu blinked, meeting their odd stares. He said casually, “About sightseeing? Of course, we can go anywhere if we have time. The club funds are for us to have fun. Doesn’t matter if it’s a museum or a shrine—on the other side of Kanto, there’s freedom.”

No one got his joke. They just followed his gaze in unison.

“That…”

“Kuroyuri Women’s Academy, an all-girls school near Chiba.” Her pale fingers lightly propped her chin. Yukino said thoughtfully, “If I recall, I saw it in the data. In Chiba Prefecture, Kuroyuri Women’s Academy’s fencing club and Sobu High’s kendo club are regular national contenders, so they’re called the Twin Swords of Chiba.”

“What a cheesy name.” Yuu laughed. Seeing some people chatting and nearly falling behind, he quickly caught up with the kendo club members. “Come on, stop staring at them.”

“You’re the one staring, aren’t you?” A hoarse voice spoke up. Masuzu, who had been silent, suddenly chimed in. “Did some girl there catch your eye? Planning to go flirt?”

“Don’t talk nonsense. Is there any girl there prettier than you?” Yuu shrugged. He said with a relaxed smile, “I’m not that desperate. I just felt some familiarity. I’ve seen a few of them at the supermarket near my old place, so I looked a bit longer.”

Hearing this, the light in Masuzu’s eyes clearly returned. Her gloomy mood eased slightly.

Yukino’s expression softened a bit too. Yuigahama even burst into cheerful laughter.

Then Masuzu turned and asked Yukino:

“You, the Lie Detector, is he lying?”

“About eighty percent is the truth. The rest is ambiguous, misleading language.”

Saying it without hesitation, Yukino glanced at Masuzu coldly. “Besides, I’m not a lie detector. If you can’t tell, it just means your skills are lacking.”

Yuu: “…”

(No, no, no, you’re almost as accurate as a lie detector, you know?!)

(No normal person can do that, right? The tapeworm in my stomach probably doesn’t know me as well as you do, Yukinoshita-san!)

After chatting briefly, they entered the gymnasium.

Compared to outside, the atmosphere inside was livelier. Perhaps because it was confined by the ceiling, there were shouts from staff, conversations between students and coaches. The echoing noise buzzed like mosquitoes in their ears.

Yukino and Masuzu, who preferred quiet, almost instinctively frowned. But the gradually gathering gazes and shifting atmosphere made them unconsciously focus on the conversations.

“That’s Sobu High, top eight last year…”

“Isn’t their club president nicknamed the Junior Sword Emperor? Why only top eight?”

“You mean Himura? He’s been banned from competing for a while. He’s always causing trouble outside. If it weren’t all deemed legitimate self-defense, and if there wasn’t someone higher up protecting him, Sobu High might not even be able to compete.”

“Can they still win? Without that invincible middle school king…”

“Wait, I recognize that glasses guy, that’s Kenzaki, the vice-president, right? The ace known for speed and precision. The coach even said to be extra careful of his thrusts… What’s with his hand?”

“Rumor is he got in a fight and broke his hand. He can’t compete this time.”

“Huh? Then isn’t Sobu High done for? They don’t have any other famous players, right?”

“Don’t talk nonsense. With the Junior Sword Emperor’s coaching, their overall strength is above average. No major weaknesses. It depends on who they field as a replacement and who their ace will be.”

“Is that a newbie? He’s really handsome…”

“Hm? I feel like I’ve seen this guy somewhere, but I’ve never seen his photo in past tournaments, and there’s no info on him in the data…”

There were plenty of similar discussions. Every team that had competed in nationals and had good results would attract this kind of attention, becoming the topic of conversation for a while.