Yuu 291-295

Title: I’m Yuu’s Girlfriend

Of course, the polite “don’t be shy” was just a formality. After refusing several times, the two of them ordered afternoon tea sets and sat across from Mizuhara Chizuru.

“Tenkuji-san, I’m sorry for suddenly inviting you out like this. I hope it doesn’t interfere with your plans.”

Her tone was more formal and polite than before. Chizuru sat upright, looking at Yuu with an apologetic expression.

“This is just a casual chat. I have time for that.” Yuu smiled, his demeanor relaxed. “You helped me a lot back then too—consider this my way of returning the favor.”

Chizuru gave a wry smile at that. “What help? You paid me, and I merely fulfilled my duty by telling you what I knew... Well, if you insist on seeing it that way, I’ll gladly accept your kindness.”

“In that case...”

He shifted his gaze to Masuzu, who looked slightly stiff as she quietly sat in her seat.

Chizuru tilted her eyes downward slightly. Various ways to start a conversation with her flashed through her mind, trying to ease the awkward atmosphere.

She had originally assumed that the girl with dango-style hair whom she’d seen studying together with Yuu at the family restaurant was now his current girlfriend...

Given their kindness and intimate manner, anyone with eyes could see their relationship was already beyond close friends—it only needed Yuu’s nod to become official lovers.

Yet, Chizuru hadn’t expected the girl she called over the phone—out of concern that her boyfriend might feel uncomfortable and wanting company—was this unfamiliar, beautiful silver-haired girl instead. In fact, this girl seemed even more attached to him than the one with dango hair.

(Seriously, do high schoolers nowadays play relationships like this?)

(Or did he, as a hired boyfriend, stray onto the wrong path and embark on a point-of-no-return journey—playing with girls’ feelings?)

There were so many things Chizuru wanted to ask right now, especially about the whereabouts of that dango-haired girl… But all of it was mere personal curiosity. Of course, she couldn’t possibly ask, especially not in front of his actual girlfriend.

In short, she’d completely revised her impression of Yuu.

The boy who used to be her fellow “rent-a-date” partner, hiring her as a tutor because he didn’t know how to date—turned out to have a love life far more complicated than she imagined. Much more complicated than her own, actually.

From now on, Chizuru decided she should be careful and keep some distance from him, avoiding entanglement in romantic troubles…

Whether colleague or client, a rent-a-date who isn’t cautious in such matters risks getting caught between parties and ends up disliked by everyone.

Although, both she and Yuu had already quit that job.

Chizuru smiled warmly, touched. Then, regaining her composure, she turned to Masuzu with a calm, graceful smile. “Nice to meet you. I’m Mizuhara Chizuru, former female rent-a-date at Diamond Agency, and now just an ordinary university student.”

“...I’m Yuu’s girlfriend, Natsukawa Masuzu.”

After replying somewhat stiffly, Masuzu seemed to realize her current behavior wasn’t normal. She quickly cleared her throat, covering her mouth with her hand, adjusting her voice back to its usual relaxed and elegant tone.

“I’ve heard about you from Yuu. I’m truly sorry for insisting on joining when you two wanted to discuss something important...”

Chizuru waved her hands hurriedly. “No, no! Your concern is perfectly understandable. If my boyfriend suddenly went out to eat with a girl I didn’t know, I’d probably care enough to want to come along too!”

“It’s actually I who should apologize first. I didn’t consider that he already had a girlfriend. I should’ve been more careful when sending that message.”

Her expression was sincere, as though Chizuru genuinely felt remorseful. Her tone and manner brought comfort, like a spring breeze.

Masuzu couldn’t suppress an admiring smile. She bowed gracefully. “You’re too kind, Mizuhara-san... Please excuse me today. I’ll try my best to behave like a decorative plant—emotionless and not interrupting your conversation.”

“I appreciate that, Natsukawa-san. But please don’t be so formal with me. Even though I’m two or three years older than you two, I prefer talking as equals among peers.”

Chizuru glanced at Yuu, teasingly adding, “Just like your boyfriend here. When it comes to acting, he’s practically my senior. Sending him formal messages makes me feel incredibly awkward... On the contrary, in our work, I was his senior, yet he never used formal language with me. Just relax!”

Yuu shrugged, showing he didn’t care either way. Do whatever you want.

“I understand.” Masuzu paused briefly, then asked curiously, “Mizuhara-san, is Yuu’s acting really as impressive as you say?”

“Well, it’s not exactly about whether he’s good or not...” Recalling what happened that day, Chizuru couldn’t help but pour out all the impressions, surprises, and valuable experiences she’d gained.

But noticing the mood, she adjusted her words. “If you’re curious, why don’t you ask him to act right now, and see for yourself how he performs?”

“Great idea.” Masuzu turned to Yuu, her sparkling eyes blinking cutely as she acted sweetly. “Darling, could you show me? That thing Mizuhara-san saw?”

“Watch your tone!” Yuu slapped his forehead in irritation.

Chizuru gave a wry smile beside them. She grumbled inwardly but didn’t pay much attention.

Facing the girl’s expectant gaze, Yuu thought for a moment. Since they were in public and he didn’t want to attract excessive attention, he could only demonstrate his acting through small gestures.

He glanced around, then suddenly picked up a butter knife from the cutlery set on the table. Pretending to be relaxed, he asked, “Masuzu, are you thirsty?”

“Hm? Kind of.” Masuzu was startled. Still unaware, she replied confusedly, “I just ordered red tea—“

“That’ll take too long. I can’t let you stay thirsty that long.”

Cutting her off gently, Yuu spoke softly. He forcibly placed the knife into her hand and brought his own wrist closer.

“Here, there’s delicious drink right here. Don’t hesitate—drink as much as you want.”

“...Huh? W-what do you mean?”

The bizarre turn of events left Masuzu momentarily speechless. She could only stare at him, bewildered, unsure how to react.

Yet, the fingers holding the butter knife began trembling faintly, under Yuu’s gentle, expressionless gaze.

Chizuru, sitting opposite them, shivered. Amidst the eerie atmosphere, she narrowed her eyes, goosebumps rising.

(...This is it—that feeling!)

(The bone-deep, chilling portrayal of a psychopath that sends shivers down your spine!)

Though her body desperately wanted to flee from the chair, Chizuru forced herself to endure the fear. Her eyes remained fixed on Yuu’s expressions and movements, not missing a single detail she could use as reference.

-

Title: Acting Like a Madman

“What do you mean it’s not easy? The meaning is clear, isn’t it? I belong to you—body, soul, and blood...”

Speaking as if this were perfectly natural, Yuu gripped Masuzu’s hand and firmly pressed the butter knife against his own wrist without the slightest hesitation.

Even as the blade touched his skin, his eyes remained locked on Masuzu’s, unwavering.

Yuu smiled. His smile was softer than before, but his pitch-black pupils, like stagnant pools of water, revealed an indifferent, chilling conviction.

“Drink, Masuzu.” Yuu murmured, narrowing his eyes. His voice was honey-sweet, yet calm and terrifying, slowly filling with a quiet sense of pleasure. “The more that flows out, the more you drink, the more we’ll become one—never to part again.”

“Don’t be afraid. After all, this is proof of our bond...”

Using one hand to press down on Masuzu’s, he slowly dragged the butter knife downward. A thin cut appeared on his wrist.

He seemed to feel no pain at all, still gazing into Masuzu’s eyes with intoxicated devotion, as if savoring the joy of self-sacrifice and quenching her thirst.

Only when she saw the faint pink stain appear did Masuzu snap out of her paralysis. Her face instantly turned pale, and she suddenly headbutted Yuu hard in the forehead.

*CRACK!*

“Ow!”

Yuu instinctively staggered backward. As the strength in his grip faded, the butter knife clattered loudly onto the floor.

“W-what did you suddenly do...?”

He stared at the girl before him in mild disbelief, slowly lowering his gaze.

As the act ended, the cold aura vanished completely, like an illusion dispelled. The temperature, once cloaked in a strange, twisted presence, gradually returned to normal. It was as if the sun had just remembered to shine through the window, illuminating his wide, angry eyes—bright and sharp like winter stars.

Masuzu also clutched her head. She seemed to need a moment to recover from the dizziness. After taking several deep breaths, she tightly grasped Yuu’s unharmed wrist and pulled it toward her chest.

When she turned over his wrist, she saw no red mark—the kind that earlier had made her breath catch and her heart stop.

“...What just happened?”

“I told you—I wanted to show you my acting.” Yuu said irritably. Though his head didn’t hurt much, anyone would be annoyed after being headbutted out of nowhere.

Masuzu shook her head. Her cold fingertips kept stroking Yuu’s uninjured wrist, as if trying to confirm whether the warmth and smoothness of his skin were real.

“How could your acting deceive the body like that? Unless you used Crazy Diamond to heal yourself the moment the wound appeared, or King Crimson to skip the injury time... Otherwise... just now, I truly felt like I was cutting into something...”

As she continued, her already pale face drained of all color. Her voice trembled at the end, and even her breathing sounded nauseated.

“But thank goodness you’re not hurt... Thank goodness you’re not hurt...”

She muttered softly. Her anxiety and fragility were even more evident than when she had the flu and begged him to stay by her side.

“...”

Seeing her honest expression for the first time, Yuu fell silent for a moment.

Like a child wielding a wooden sword to impress others and accidentally hurting someone, Yuu, in his eagerness to demonstrate flawless acting, hadn’t considered Masuzu’s feelings. He’d immediately pulled her into playing the role of a deranged boyfriend. Clearly, it was a lapse in judgment—his fault.

Snapped back to reality by the headbutt, Yuu began reflecting.

He might still have many such immature tendencies, but he could only fix them as quickly as possible and strive never to repeat them once he realized them.

And he realized one more thing—

Masuzu cared about him more than he had thought.

“Sorry, Masuzu.” Gently pulling her small hand, Yuu patted the back of it. His tone unconsciously softened, becoming soothing. “That was all just acting. Don’t worry. With my Hamon, an ordinary butter knife can’t hurt me.”

“Don’t think you can win me over with some JOJO joke! Sure, I love JOJO, but I’m not some brainless fangirl who just rambles without thinking!”

Masuzu glared at him. Then she puffed her cheeks and turned her face away. Muttering sadly, she said, “Do you even know how much psychological trauma you’ve given me? It doesn’t matter how good your acting is—you let me feel like I was actually hurting you. What if I’m too scared to hold a knife ever again?”

“You don’t need to hold knives anyway—you can’t cook...”

“Hm?” Masuzu’s eyes sharpened.

Yuu quickly corrected himself. “I know, it was my fault. You can punish me however you want when we get home. I promise I won’t make you worry like that again.”

“Fine then, I suppose I’ll have to accept your apology.” Masuzu sniffed. The faint blush returned to her cheeks. Her heart seemed to have settled, and her demeanor was no longer so agitated.

“When we get home, you have to make me lots of porridge! At least for three whole days!”

“Okay~ I’ll come every day and cook you a whole pot, deal?”

Yuu rolled his eyes helplessly, but somehow, seeing the satisfied smile on her face, the corners of his lips couldn’t help but lift. An odd warmth began stirring in his chest.

Shaking off her lingering shock, Masuzu turned to Chizuru. Her expression grew serious. She cleared her throat to hide her embarrassment.

“I’m sorry—I lost control a bit there. As you said, Yuu’s acting really is that incredible. I couldn’t tell what was real and what was fake. No wonder you consider him your senior.”

“Eh, I’m glad you believe me...”

Rubbing her goosebumped arm, Chizuru laughed awkwardly, as if just waking from a dream.

Though the room had returned to normal temperature, her mind kept replaying that horrifying performance, sending shivers down her spine. Her gaze was slightly dazed.

“This wasn’t a joke. This wasn’t an illusion. It was genuinely stronger and more impactful than before.”

“To think such masterful acting could still be improved... What kind of monster is he?”

“He’s not just ‘good at acting.’ Someone like this should enter the entertainment industry and win countless awards to prove his talent!”

“...But still, thank goodness.”

Chizuru murmured in relief. Slowly, she clenched her fist on her knee, and her vacant stare gradually hardened into determination.

If she sought guidance from this person—this Yuu—perhaps she could truly grow until nothing stood in her way of becoming a renowned actress.

Yes, the future to fulfill that dream was right before her eyes!

“In that case, may I discuss my matter now?”

Her eyes locked onto Yuu. Her expression suddenly turned serious. Chizuru firmly steered the conversation back on track. Unconsciously, her back straightened. Her aura became resolute.

Seeing this, Masuzu obediently shrank into her seat. Before the food arrived, she pulled out her phone and began browsing the latest news, giving the two of them space to talk.

Meanwhile, Yuu gazed into her light brown pupils. He rested his arms on his chin and listened to her request with a calm expression.

-

Title: Call Me Onee-san!

The sun slowly sank. The ashen sky gradually turned pitch black.

Masuzu propped her chin on her hand, watching the two of them talk seriously. She felt incredibly bored.

It was oddly dull.

There wasn’t a trace of ambiguity like she had feared. They weren’t even exchanging secret glances. They were simply discussing acting—one teaching earnestly, the other listening intently.

(Well then, it wouldn’t have mattered if I hadn’t come, right? Although… I wouldn’t have known any of this if I hadn’t shown up...)

She shifted her gaze from Yuu’s lips to Chizuru’s face.

Masuzu’s expression grew slightly more serious. She narrowed her eyes, scrutinizing Chizuru from head to toe.

Her hairstyle wasn’t overly complicated. Her clothes were soft, natural, and well-fitted. Her light makeup emphasized a composed aura, though only using the most basic touches.

Amid this blend of femininity and maturity, Chizuru added youthful, cute, and energetic accents with earrings and bracelets—keeping her look fresh rather than outdated.

This university-student fashion sense suited Masuzu’s taste far better than the flashy adult styles she’d seen at social events.

Simple and understated, yet naturally highlighting her charm. Forget herself—she wished those wealthy women and debutantes who always overdressed could learn from her.

This is what adulthood looks like...

Lost in thought while silently mocking others, Masuzu completely forgot her gaze was still fixed on Chizuru’s face.

Chizuru’s previously indifferent expression finally began to shift. The corner of her mouth twitched slightly, and she occasionally glanced toward Masuzu with uncertain eyes.

“Just ignore her. She’s abnormal about 70% of the time.”

Yuu tapped his finger against the table. His lips barely moved, voice blending into an almost imperceptible whisper. Though Masuzu sat right beside him, the words didn’t reach her ears.

Chizuru blinked. She looked back at him, her expression softening. “That’s a bit harsh... Could it be you like her because she’s abnormal?”

Though she spoke quietly too, she lacked Yuu’s skill. Masuzu, sitting close by, didn’t miss the sentence despite being lost in thought.

Her eyebrows twitched slightly, but Masuzu acted as if she heard nothing. She maintained her posture and expression, silently waiting for Yuu’s response.

“Maybe. If she were too normal, I’d probably find it uncomfortable.”

Yuu sighed resignedly. He didn’t notice the unmistakable sparkle in the girl beside him. He continued delivering his flawless acting knowledge in his own words.

“Even though thinking from a character’s perspective can bring them to life, it won’t maximize their appeal... If you have extra energy, try thinking from the director’s point of view, or the character creator’s. Consider what you want to show the audience, and what emotions or atmosphere you want to use to influence them. All your prior preparation exists solely to captivate the audience.”

“To highlight your performance, don’t be afraid to go overboard... You can adjust later. Only once you’ve learned to grab the audience’s attention extravagantly do you earn the right to consider which parts to hold back…”

Perhaps because of his innate desire to teach, or perhaps due to the young woman’s attentive, shining eyes filled with determination,

Yuu taught with intense seriousness and detail. He might as well have poured out every piece of knowledge the system ever gave him, along with all his recent experiences, directly into Chizuru.

Of course, words had their limits. It was hard to say how much the other party could absorb and apply.

But that didn’t stop Yuu from giving it all. He emptied his entire “Yuu-style Actor Self-Improvement Guide” into Chizuru.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

In the unbreakable atmosphere of deep discussion, two hours passed quickly.

Their coffee had been refilled twice before he concluded with mild satisfaction.

“This is my final advice, Mizuhara-san... If your goal is merely to pass auditions, and not to amaze everyone with your acting, then everyone at the audition becomes your rival. This competition may even extend beyond acting itself.”

“But if your goal is to make everyone unable to look away from your performance—no matter the role, you want to shine brightest—then your only rival is yourself. Acting flaws are your flaws; there’s no other factor to blame.”

As if reading her mind, Yuu leaned back in his chair and smiled. “Isn’t beating one person easier than beating dozens?”

“...”

Chizuru fell silent for a moment. She set down her notebook, tilted her head, and gave a wry smile. “I haven’t even mentioned this part yet, and you already guessed it... True, you’re also part of this industry, aren’t you?”

“Just guessing. I used to read similar web novels often, so I understand... I’m just not interested in getting involved myself.” Yuu picked up his coffee cup, realized it was empty, and placed it back on the table.

Chizuru quickly called the waiter to order again, but Yuu stopped her, requesting only warm water instead.

“Well, I won’t ask for details. I hope what I said today helps you. I look forward to seeing you on the big screen soon.”

“Thank you so much, Tenkuji-san.” Chizuru nodded sincerely and solemnly. Her tone unconsciously became more respectful, as if addressing a mentor. “I’ll work hard. Even if I don’t pass the audition, I must leave the directors impressed by my acting!”

Yuu sipped his warm water, moistening his throat dry from talking so much. Then he said, “By the way, from what you mentioned earlier—you’ve quit the rent-a-girlfriend job?”

“Yes, my energy is limited.” Chizuru sighed. She had no intention of hiding anything and answered honestly. “I have university, acting school, and daily worries about auditions... While the rent-a-girlfriend job let me practice acting while earning money, human stamina has its limits. I had to choose one path to focus on.”

This young woman, full of dreams yet often facing failure, wore a cheerful, accepting smile in the face of reality. “If someday I fail an audition and run out of money, maybe I’ll return and start from zero again?”

Facing this self-deprecating joke, Yuu merely shrugged and said casually, “Having that mindset—whether you succeed or not—is already a rare experience.”

“...Though I’d prefer experience less and become an actress who makes my family proud sooner.”

Lowering her head slightly, Chizuru spoke softly. Then, she smiled again as if nothing happened, her tone bright. “Anyway, thank you so much today, Tenkuji-san! Listening to you feels better than reading books for ten years—something like that?”

“Although I can’t repay you with anything now, and you didn’t accept any teaching fee from me, besides treating you to a meal, there’s little else I can do... But if one day I truly get a chance to perform on stage, I hope you’ll accept my first paycheck as honorarium.”

Yuu replied casually, “We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it. Teaching someone turns out to be pretty interesting. The reward isn’t that important to me.”

Chizuru narrowed her eyes and chuckled like a cat. “Then from now on, I’ll work hard not to disappoint my teacher’s teachings?”

“No thanks, obaa-san. I’m only seventeen—that’s way too heavy.” Yuu pretended to recoil in disgust.

Chizuru’s forehead twitched. She slapped the table and glared at him, exuding a senior aura. “Who’s ‘obaasan’!? I’m only twenty! Call me 0nee-san. Or Onee-chan, if you prefer!”

Yuu clicked his tongue shamelessly. “Sorry, I don’t have a hobby for roleplay like that.”

“It’s the truth!”

“The smarter one is the older one. I’m not asking you to call me Onii-chan, am I?”

“That’s you who sounds like you’re roleplaying!”

Teasing each other, their intimate conversation lasting over two hours had indeed brought them closer.

Compared to their date at the shopping mall, their interaction now felt more natural and relaxed. They spoke like ordinary people without pretense—no hidden agendas or excessive fakery. Despite the age gap, they felt comfortable, as if chatting with a friend.

Noticing the darkening sky, Yuu prepared to say goodbye and walk Masuzu home.

“This is just a small token of gratitude, nothing much.” After paying, Chizuru handed each of them a small cake. With slight emotion, she said, “The cakes here are quite good, though I don’t know why business is worse than the café next door. But I prefer the taste here... Their blended coffee is the best I’ve ever had.”

“Is that so? The owner would surely be happy to hear that.”

Yuu didn’t say much. He waved in front of the café, watching the slim, beautiful figure—back straight, carrying an indomitable dream—fade into the bustling city under the night.

Then, he turned and extended his hand to Masuzu, who throughout had behaved exactly like a docile ornamental plant, speaking little.

“Let’s go home.”

“Home?” As if still dazed, Masuzu paused briefly, then looked at him as if waking from a dream. “Ah, you’re going to walk me home, right?”

“If you don’t want me to, I can save my energy.” Yuu didn’t care. He immediately grabbed her cold hand from her side and started walking toward the station. “But unfortunately, I promised you I’d cook porridge for three days, and I usually never take back my promises.”

“So now, we’ll go to the supermarket first to buy ingredients, then to your apartment to cook porridge, and only then will I go home.”

Pulled along by him, her skirt swayed under the streetlights as she stumbled after him with a slightly vacant expression.

“I thought you were just joking…”

“Guess you don’t know me well enough.”

Masuzu blinked, then teased, “Really? Wasn’t your line about liking my abnormality also not a joke?”

Yuu didn’t turn. His eyes remained fixed ahead, like gray clouds drifting slowly across the sky. He answered in a calm, emotionless tone, “Yeah, but I don’t only like that part.”

“...”

Words that meant nothing to him—mere analysis of his feelings—had a massive impact on the girl behind.

Her legs moved robotically. Masuzu stared blankly at the boy’s back in front of her. It was as if the city’s entire bustle faded away. The warmth in her palm seeped deeper into her heart, and the slow echo of her heartbeat resonated in her ears.

After a while, she murmured softly, “…So unfair. He attacks me at a moment like this.”

“I don’t feel like I’m attacking anyone.”

“Don’t you realize how much emotional leverage your words carry with a girl?”

“Ah, maybe. After all, I am fairly popular.”

“You damn Yuu, bastard Yuu! Mizuhara-san is your next target, isn’t she?”

“Here we go again? Natsukawa-san’s jealousy meeting?”

“It’s not jealousy! Stupid Yuu, if you want to call someone Onee-san, I’ll happily play along with whatever roleplay you want—just as long as it’s in the bedroom!”

“That’s exactly the kind of line you should save for the bedroom! Can’t you see the weird looks pedestrians are giving us?”

“Bad… Really bad… My body’s feeling strange too…”

“Hm? Is the Black Dragon Flame awakening?”

“No—the Onee-san side is about to rise... From now on, call me Masuzu Onee-san. Or ‘lowly female dog,’ I don’t mind.”

“The difference is way too extreme! M”

“Moments like these—teasing each other, hand in hand, dodging strangers’ odd stares—seem destined to stretch endlessly, like an infinite road fading into the distance.”

“Stop narrating out loud!”

Her silver hair fluttered. Masuzu suddenly quickened her steps, jumped onto his back, and tightly wrapped her arms around his neck.

Yuu reacted quickly, balancing himself while holding her thighs. Then, helplessly, he said, “Hey, what are you doing in public?”

“Hug~ Hugging you~~ Hugging you as punishment—!!”

“...Second phase, Beka the Wire?”

“Tch, you know it?” Masuzu’s voice, previously cheerful like bird wings, suddenly turned annoyed. “You’re annoying because your brain’s too smart.”

“To be honest, your brain’s the weird one for remembering villain dialogue like that.”

Yuu tilted his head, trying to see her face, but it was blocked by her chest deliberately pushed forward—making him crash right into it.

“Rather than look at my face, just look at my chest.” Masuzu declared seriously, as if quoting a famous line.

Yuu rolled his eyes. He didn’t respond, simply carried her and strolled calmly amid the strange stares of passersby.

A few moments later, the arms around his neck felt warm and gentle. Masuzu hugged him carefully.

“By the way, Masuzu.”

“...Hm?” Masuzu answered in a soft, lazy voice.

“If I’m carrying you like this, aren’t you worried your skirt might ride up?” Though Yuu had tried his best to cover it with both hands.

Masuzu shook her head. A ticklish sensation brushed the side of his neck.

“Don’t worry. I don’t want anyone but you seeing it—and you’re not even interested anyway. Lately, I’ve started wearing safety shorts.”

“...I see.”

His faintly smiling breath settled upon two sets of footprints, creating a ring of light with soft gradients.

-

Title: Extra: Valentine’s Day × Suffering Day (Part 1)

February 14th, Valentine’s Day.

Discount ads for chocolate and chocolate-related products filled the streets. Merchants and couples alike openly spread a pink-tinted atmosphere. Tokyo’s streets were drenched in romantic scents… and mating season energy.

Even though the trees at the roadside stood bare and cold winds blew fiercely, sweet fragrances adorned their branches, illuminating the hearts of everyone feeling restless.

The park beside the station.

A fountain quietly sprayed cold water into the air. If clouds hadn’t blocked the sun, the scattered droplets would have reflected warm golden light, occasionally forming faint rainbows.

Yuu stood in front of the fountain, staring at it for a long time. Suddenly, he raised his hand and threw his dead phone into the water.

The weather was still cold, so the park wasn’t crowded. Even passing couples didn’t notice his action.

As if nothing had happened, Yuu turned around, hands in his pockets, boredly gazing at the gray sky.

He still had five minutes until the agreed time—he always had the habit of arriving ten minutes early.

And the only person willing to cooperate with this habit, someone who also always arrived early, seemed to be Haruno?

Well, that was the past now.

Yuu shook his head. At that moment, he sensed footsteps deliberately slowing as they approached from the side.

He pretended not to notice, calmly continuing to stare straight ahead. His left shoulder quickly felt a light tap.

“Senpai—”

Yuu turned left, but saw no one.

He turned right. This time, cold fingertips gently brushed his cheek—as if teasing him—then mysteriously tapped twice more, softly.

“Hehe, gotcha~”

The cute girl with a mischievous smile on her right was his junior—Isshiki Iroha.

Her ash-blonde hair swayed. Her delicate legs stepped lightly on the ground, making her skirt sway along.

“Senpai’s awareness is terrible. You could easily be attacked, you know? Since you’re Senpai, you should be more careful!”

“If I hadn’t intentionally lowered my guard, do you really think you’d have any chance of touching me?”

Yuu rolled his eyes and swatted away her fingers poking his cheek like she was playing a game.

Iroha smiled smugly. She took two steps back, hands behind her back. Her large eyes blinked, curiously studying him.

“So then, did Senpai let me touch you on purpose?”

“No need to overreact.”

Hands still in his pockets, Yuu replied casually.

Iroha wore a satisfied smile, as if she’d gotten the answer she wanted. She raised her finger proudly and declared, “Even though you say that, Senpai must secretly like this kind of thing, right? The scene where you’re playfully teased by a cute girl in an adorable way!”

“Don’t call yourself cute, and I don’t enjoy being teased either.” After grumbling, Yuu gestured toward the park gate and started walking. “Let’s go. It’s cold here.”

“It’s your own fault for choosing this place to meet. You deserve it, you know?”

Pouting, Iroha caught up. The softness and scent of the girl suddenly drew near. Her ash-blonde hair brushed against his shoulder. They were extremely close.

“Even though we don’t have the classic ‘Sorry I kept you waiting?’ ‘No, I just arrived too,’ since Senpai won’t respond the way I want anyway, let’s just skip ahead and start our date today!”

The corner of Yuu’s lips couldn’t help but lift. Yet he feigned indifference. “Date? As far as I know, I only invited you out shopping.”

“Hah?” Iroha frowned, puffed her pale cheeks, and accused him unhappily. “Senpai, inviting a female junior who isn’t your girlfriend out shopping on Valentine’s Day—any normal person knows what you mean! Now you’re still stubborn like this, making yourself look weird and un-cute.”

“Who’s weird.” Yuu reached out and vigorously ruffled her soft ash-blonde hair. “Can’t two single people just hang out together to keep each other warm? Stupid junior, your perspective is so narrow.”

“Waaah!” Iroha quickly shielded her head, fending off the assault from above. “Senpai, I worked hard to style my hair! Don’t ruin it!”

Yuu stopped his hand. Iroha seized the chance and grabbed his fingers, pulling them away from her hair.

“Geez, completely ignoring a woman’s feelings…” Complaining bitterly, she suddenly widened her eyes like a small animal and gasped in surprise. “Senpai’s hands are so warm! Did you bring hand warmers?”

“No. I just rubbed them to warm up because I knew your hands would be cold.” Yuu flipped his palm and took hers, letting her soft, chilly touch quickly melt in his grip. Without looking back, he continued walking. “Don’t worry about little things like that. Let’s get going already.”

“...W-wait! Senpai, why did you suddenly attack like that?! That’s unfair! That doesn’t count!”

Realizing their hands were already intertwined, Iroha snapped out of her daze. She shouted with a flushed face while hurrying to catch up, finally matching his pace.

Then, she bit her lip and murmured sadly, “Ugh… annoying. This makes me look like such an easy catch. No, I should’ve pulled away and made Senpai suffer a bit before giving him any sweetness…”

“Iroha, I heard that.”

“Hm? I didn’t say anything~” Tilting her head cutely, Iroha pressed herself against his shoulder and cooed, “By the way, Senpai, there’s one thing I forgot to tell you.”

“What?”

“I forgot my phone. So if you don’t take good care of me, it’ll be hard to find me.”

“Oh? What a coincidence.” Yuu couldn’t help but laugh. “My phone just happened to break too. No one can find me except you. Don’t let me get lost.”

“Don’t compare yourself to me!” Iroha made a disgusted face. “Big Senpai, how dumb and blind would I have to be to lose you?”

“Then you don’t need to hold my hand so tightly.”

“I’m just warming up. Senpai, don’t get too confident… Ah, or do you think this will make me embarrassed? I deeply apologize, but even though my heart is racing and I’m almost screaming with joy, I’m still far from feeling embarrassed. So please, Senpai, keep trying harder!”

“Ah, the daily routine has begun.”

“What do you mean by that! Stupid Senpai! Cruel!”

Chattering cheerfully, the two left the quiet park, side by side, heading into the cold streets beyond.

Under the fountain, the phone lay still.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Half an hour later, a long, slender hand reached down and picked it up.

“Honestly, Yuu-chan… That junior of yours too—everyone else is already prepared.”

A slightly teasing voice, yet low and cold, froze the air.

Shoulder-length curly hair fell over her shoulders. She pressed the power button several times. After confirming the phone was water-damaged beyond repair, she casually dropped it from her hand, letting it fall to the ground—then stepped on it.

*CRUNCH!*

Her sharp high heel crushed the screen. The cold face reflected on it shattered into spiderweb-like cracks.

“But with just this much ability, don’t even dream of running from me…”

Alongside the emotionless mutter, droplets from her fingertips seeped into the ground. The dark trail stretched, creeping toward the park’s exit.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“Senpai, you said we’re going shopping—what do you want to buy?”

Her small bag bounced lightly at her waist. Iroha followed beside him with a spring in her step. Her big, beautiful eyes looked at him curiously once again.

“We’ll see later. No rush.”

Yuu answered casually. His gaze flickered toward her. Unexpectedly, the word cute surfaced in his mind.

Her soft ash-blonde hair. Her round, clear eyes like an innocent little animal.

Her slender frame wrapped in an oversized windbreaker jacket. On top, only the collar of a pink sweater peeked out. Below, no shorts or short skirt visible—just a pair of long legs clad in black tights, which from afar looked like she wasn’t wearing pants at all, brimming with youthful temptation.

Her white low-heeled shoes resembled elf slippers. Iroha stepped lightly on the ground, closely following behind.

(Are all creatures called ‘girls’ this cute?)

Yuu wondered. No, maybe it was just Iroha who was exceptionally cute.

If asked which part was cute, every single inch—from her fingernails to the tips of her hair—was undeniably adorable.

“Eh~ That relaxed?”

Unaware of Yuu’s thoughts, Iroha tilted her head. A little frustrated, yet seemingly having expected this answer, she sighed in annoyance.

“Well, whatever. We’re already here anyway. Can’t just go home now, right?”

She nudged his arm. Her eyes widened seriously as she declared, “So, Senpai, as compensation for spending Valentine’s Day with me, you’re responsible for giving me a perfect date!”

“Yeah, yeah, working on it.”

Yuu nodded indifferently. He pulled his gaze from Iroha and swept his eyes across every corner of the street. He seemed to be searching for something, yet his focus remained unfixed.

“Again with ignoring me… Hmph.” Iroha was slightly displeased. But seeing that Yuu still hadn’t let go of her hand, the corner of her lips couldn’t suppress a smile. She decided not to mind it too much.

Suddenly, an idea struck her. She suggested enthusiastically, “Senpai, if you don’t have a specific place in mind, how about we go to an amusement park?”

“An amusement park? That came out of nowhere.”

“Better than aimlessly wandering around. Or does Senpai have someplace special you’d like to take me?”

“...Fine, let’s go play at the amusement park.”

For Yuu right now, of course, there was no such place.

Shopping was merely an excuse. He simply wanted to spend Valentine’s Day with Iroha, so he took a huge risk by inviting her out.

His original plan had only been watching a movie, shopping, and bowling—ways to pass the time. Now that Iroha herself had suggested a destination, Yuu felt more at ease.

It didn’t matter where they went or what they did, as long as they were together.

“Yay! Then let’s go now! Just take the nearest bus!”

Iroha cheered, tugging his hand. Her pure white cheeks flushed. She skipped toward the bus stop.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

They chatted all the way, and soon arrived at the nearest amusement park. Perhaps due to Valentine’s promotions and special discounts, on this day there were many couples like them everywhere.

Of course, tickets for singles or male groups remained full price.

“Two couple tickets.”

“Here you go.” The ticket clerk glanced at the two standing close together, said nothing, and swiftly handed two tickets through the window.

Holding the tickets and waiting in line at the entrance, Iroha tugged his sleeve and said softly, touched:

“Even though we’re not actually a couple, doing something like this feels so exciting…”

Yuu shrugged. “A man and woman hanging out together at a time like this—if not lovers, then husband and wife. Nobody cares whether we’re real or fake.”

“That’s true… So then, Senpai, what kind of relationship are we now?” Iroha subtly shifted her gaze and asked casually, as if nothing mattered.

Yuu didn’t hesitate. He answered, “Senpai and Kouhai.”

“...” Iroha stared at his expressionless profile.

“Of course, that’s how it looks on the surface, but reality is hard to define.” With that sharp glance, Yuu’s expression didn’t change. He continued with a slightly teasing tone, “After all, what kind of kouhai would agree to hang out with their senpai on Valentine’s Day?”

“...Pfft, there are such people, you know?” Iroha slowly smiled. She angrily headbutted his shoulder and snorted twice. “I just felt sorry for Senpai who had no friends. Don’t get too full of yourself!”

“Yeah, yeah, who’s unpopular anyway? Only my kouhai would feel sorry for me.”

Rolling his eyes, Yuu responded to her words. Thinking of no one else, he walked with her through the amusement park gates.

Their hands, separated when paying for tickets earlier, now brushed against each other—but hadn’t yet found the chance to intertwine again.

“Ah, there’s Ponta, the mascot!”

Right after entering, Iroha squealed like a child spotting the park’s mascot. Her eyes sparkled.

“Let’s take a photo quickly… Ah, I forgot my phone, so I can’t take pictures.” As if her excitement instantly vanished, she pouted and turned away boredly. “A mascot you can’t photograph is useless. Let’s go.”

“You’re so practical…”

Yuu shook his head. As he walked past, he suddenly felt something. He looked up.

The thick mascot costume faced him, motionless. Its pair of round black eyes seemed to glint with cold light, reflecting their silhouettes—a couple in appearance.

Mysteriously, Yuu felt a chill run down his spine. A sense of familiarity welled up from deep within. His footsteps unconsciously halted.

“Senpai, what’s wrong?”

Noticing the other wasn’t following, Iroha turned back confusedly.

“...Nothing.” Yuu slowly exhaled. He took her hand again and walked toward the nearest ride. “Forget about it. Just have fun all day.”

“That’s my plan… By the way, Senpai, why does it feel like you’re so skilled at holding a girl’s hand? No hesitation or awkwardness at all.”

“Maybe I’m naturally talented?”

“Pfft~ Liar Senpai! Only liars would like you.”

“True.”

Their conversation gradually faded into the distance.

The mascot remained in place. Only after they disappeared from view did it walk to a shaded spot and slowly unzip the back of its suit.

“Haaah…”

The person inside exhaled, then shook their head.

Soft brown hair swayed gently, but their eyes were as sharp and cold as swords.

“So you fled here… This time, I won’t lose your trail, Yuu-kun.”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

On the roller coaster.

“Senpai, if you’re scared, hold me tight, okay?” Like an older sister advising her younger brother to behave, Iroha spoke seriously.

Yuu glanced at her slightly trembling arm and said, slightly amused, “You’re the one who’s scared.”

“Then, Senpai, will you hold me tight?” Iroha immediately changed tactics, placing her hands on her knees.

Yuu naturally took her hand, gripping it firmly. “Don’t worry. I won’t let go even if we fall.”

“...” The shy smile about to bloom on Iroha’s face froze instantly.

“Don’t say scary things like that! Eh? Eh?! Eh?!! Can we still get off now?!”

As her voice cracked, the roller coaster slowly began to move.

“It’s too late. Don’t worry—as long as there aren’t any piano wires on the track, I can protect you even if the entire cart crashes.”

“I told you, stop scaring me with stuff like that! You stupid, annoying Senpai—”

The girl’s scream echoed beneath the vast sky.


-

Title: Extra: Valentine’s Day × Suffering Day (Part 2)

“Senpai, that was outrageous.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“Senpai, seriously, that was completely unacceptable!”

“Yeah, yeah. How many times are you going to say it?”

“Until Senpai truly realizes your mistake! My legs are still trembling right now!”

The beautiful ash-blonde girl huffed as she slapped his shoulder in annoyance. She wore an expression of shock, as if just returning from hell. “It’s so strange. I’ve never been this scared on a roller coaster before. But today, with Senpai, the fear felt... unnaturally deep somehow...”

“Isn’t that because I deliberately scared you with my words?”

Yuu glanced at her and extended his hand.

Iroha naturally took it with both hands, letting her cold fingers warm up again—right down to her heart. Then she proudly continued:

“I’m not that easily frightened. I only screamed to look cuter~ Senpai, you fell for it too!”

“You’re amazing,” Yuu said, shrugging. He changed the subject. “Want to go on the teacup ride next?”

“Not yet. Let’s go to the haunted house first!” Iroha tightly hugged his arm, pressing her soft body against him, and pointed her finger high toward the haunted house.

Yuu lowered his head, meeting her round, cute eyes.

“...You really do love things that make you scream.”

“It’s not that I like it—it’s that guys love girls who face challenges and scream out of fear.”

Leaning on his arm, she looked ahead and whispered, “To make Senpai like me more, this is just the basic strategy.”

Yuu paused for a moment. “I think your tactics are already pretty advanced.”

“Hm? What do you mean? Are you saying you already like me that much? Sorry, even though I’m happy, if you’re going to confess, please do it properly—or else I’ll pretend I didn’t hear anything...”

Yuu sighed resignedly. “Alright, alright. One daily mission is enough.”

“This is all Senpai’s fault!” Iroha said with a smile, her cheeks slightly flushed.

They waited in line briefly and soon entered the hospital-themed haunted house.

The path was dark, lit only by a flashlight illuminating one corner of the messy room. Yuu walked slowly, with Iroha clinging to his side.

“Senpai, if a ghost jumps out and chases us...”

“Kick it through the wall.”

“That’s obviously not allowed?! Your thinking is way too brutal!”

“Then should I carry you and run?”

“Hmm, that sounds tempting... But the staff will definitely see. I’d feel embarrassed—better not.”

Yuu rolled his eyes. “This isn’t okay, that isn’t okay. Do you want me to scare you with the ghosts?”

“Senpai is usually smart—why can’t you think about this?”

As if giving up on him, Iroha let out a long sigh. Her fingers waved in front of her, sketching out a scene in her imagination.

“When we’re in danger, the most romantic and cool thing would be—‘I’ll hold them off here, you run first! I’ll catch up soon!’ Senpai must become the hero for your kouhai!”

“Then what? Leave you alone in the dark?” Yuu scoffed and rejected the idea. “I don’t want to be that kind of hero. I’d rather be selfish. I’ll carry you and run as far as possible. Even if we die being chased by ghosts, at least we won’t be alone on our way to the afterlife.”

“...”

In the darkness, she seemed to tilt her head up and stare at him blankly. Her steps unconsciously slowed.

Then, suddenly, a small giggle escaped.

“Hehe... Senpai really can’t act cool. That answer gets a zero from any normal girl.”

“Really?” Yuu chuckled too. He strolled casually with her through the eerie haunted house. “So in your eyes, what score did I get?”

“Ninety-nine! Minus one point because Senpai is too cunning.” After answering honestly, Iroha dissatisfiedly scratched her palm.

“You could’ve answered casually, but you said it so seriously. If it weren’t me, someone else would’ve thought, ‘What’s wrong with this guy? Can’t he talk normally?’”

“What can I do? I’m always serious when speaking. It’s one of my few flaws.” Yuu sighed mock-resignedly. “Looks like from now on, I can only say things like this to you, Iroha.”

“Right, right. For Senpai’s own good.” Iroha nodded seriously. Then she couldn’t hold back her laughter, burying her face in his shoulder and giggling.

*CRASH!*

Suddenly, a metal locker they had just passed slammed shut with a loud noise.

Iroha’s shoulders immediately trembled. She stopped laughing instantly. Her face turned deathly pale. She held her breath and pressed tightly against Yuu, her voice slightly shaking.

“S-Senpai… inside that locker…”

“There might be someone inside. It’s normal in a haunted house.” Yuu remained indifferent, simply enjoying the sight of her cute, slightly frightened face under the dim flashlight glow.

Iroha rolled her eyes in dissatisfaction. She gripped his sleeve and whined, “Of course I know that, but I’m still scared... Let’s go quickly. I feel like it’s going to jump out and chase us.”

“Alright then...” Just as he turned to leave, Yuu directed his flashlight toward the locker slowly creaking open—and a flash of silver light caught his eye.

He froze momentarily. Then his pupils narrowed. In less than half a second, his sharp gaze pierced the darkness, spotting a figure with long hair crawling out of the locker, head bowed.

No terrifying haunted house, no horrifying horror film could have made Yuu shiver and flinch like he did at that very moment.

Without hesitation, Yuu bit the flashlight between his teeth to illuminate the path ahead. Then he lifted the soft girl beside him, carrying her like a princess.

“Eh?!”

She only managed one scream. Iroha was like riding an express train. The dark, eerie scenery of the haunted house flashed past them. The narrow, shadowy corridors couldn’t slow him down.

In the blink of an eye, they burst through the exit curtain. The bright, lively amusement park outside drove away the haunted house’s chill. Confused stares from passersby gathered around them.

“Senpai, what happened? Why did you suddenly—“ Iroha, now set on the ground, looked up, clutching her clothes to her chest, confused.

“I just saw something extremely frightening.” Yuu frowned, licking his dry lips. “This haunted house is impressive... It made me unable to hold back and just run straight out.”

“Senpai was scared?” Iroha repeated, disbelieving. She touched his cheek, her big, beautiful eyes wide. “Seriously. You’re even sweating cold sweat... What did you see?”

Yuu exhaled deeply from his lungs. Only now did he feel blood flowing through his body again.

“...Maybe... something of the same kind as unspeakable things.”

“Does that sound that scary?!” After complaining, Iroha pulled out a handkerchief. Standing on tiptoe, she carefully wiped the cold sweat from his forehead.

“But... this is the first time I’ve ever seen Senpai scared... Kinda fresh~”

“Really? I actually have plenty of things I’m afraid of.” Yuu met her gaze and gave a slightly helpless, wry smile.

“For example, parting with Iroha, or being hated by Iroha.”

“...”

Her lips slightly parted. The hand wiping his sweat unconsciously froze. Iroha’s eyes widened in shock.

After staring at him blankly for several seconds, the corners of her lips slowly curled upward. Her ash-blonde hair swayed as she snorted and turned her face away.

“Ahh~ Ahhh—Having such a clingy Senpai is really troublesome~”

Even as she called it troublesome, her tone brimmed with joy and happiness, as if she’d just discovered a new treasure.

She put away her handkerchief, turning her blushing face. A faint dimple appeared on her soft cheek.

“Then, to prevent my cool Senpai from showing a fearful expression again... This time, let me hold your hand tightly, okay?”

Iroha smiled gently. She extended her small hand and softly clasped his fingers.

There was no force—but it felt like it could never be released for a lifetime.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Inside the haunted house, the silver-haired female ghost watched the warm scene unfolding outside.

The prop in her hand lay broken. Her face was cold as ice. She let out a chilling, quiet laugh.

“How dare you betray me, getting so affectionate with your cute junior... Looks like I’ll have to teach my beloved Yuu a lesson.”

She dropped her arm. From beneath her sleeve emerged a pitch-black object shaped like a small knife. She gripped it tightly—tighter than their intertwined hands.

“This trash-like Valentine’s Day... Let me color it with a beautiful shade of red~”

A hoarse, distorted laugh kept spilling from the beautiful silver-haired girl’s mouth.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“Senpai, buy two ice creams!”

“It’s winter. If you want to feed each other, crepes would be better?”

“Hmm... True. Then I want chocolate flavor, and Senpai get banana!”

“Okay. I’ll wait in line—you stay here.”

When Yuu returned with two crepes, Iroha immediately ordered him to close his eyes.

“Here, say aah~”

“Aah—hm? This doesn’t taste like crepe...” Yuu chewed, then opened his eyes in confusion.

Iroha hid both hands behind her back, as if concealing something. Her gaze suspicious, she turned her face away.

“D-don’t worry about what it is. Just say—was it good or not?”

Yuu stared at her oddly. “No. Anyone with functioning taste buds would know this is chocolate... But it’s good.”

“Good... Hm, of course it is!” Iroha sighed in relief. She nodded, then pulled out two crepes hidden behind her back, along with an opened box of chocolates.

“This is the first chocolate I’ve ever made for someone. Senpai, eat it with gratitude!”

“Thank you,” Yuu accepted it, along with the banana-flavored crepe.

Iroha tilted her head, showing a mischievous, cute smile. “By the way, on White Day, you must repay me tenfold. If not, I’ll never give you chocolate again for the rest of your life!”

“You’re so cruel.” Yuu popped another piece into his mouth, chewed, then nodded in evaluation. “If you mean ten times tastier chocolate, no problem.”

“...Senpai, are you underestimating me?” Iroha paused briefly. She smiled, but cold words came from her mouth. “Or do you receive piles of chocolates every Valentine’s Day, so you’re dismissing my poor first effort?”

“The only chocolate I’ve ever eaten from a girl—whether handmade or store-bought—is yours.” Yuu shrugged and said casually. “All the others I gave to my little sister. So I don’t even know if theirs tasted good. Anyway, nothing beats mine.”

“Huh...” Iroha stared at his profile, as if wanting to stab his thick face. After a while, she gave up and slumped her shoulders. “Fine, Senpai is just like that... You didn’t need to add that last part, but you’re deliberately annoying.”

“Did I make you hate me?” Yuu asked, smiling.

Like a duck paddling underwater, Iroha repeatedly slapped his shoulder and grumbled, “Yes, yes, hate! I hate you so much!”

Suddenly, she opened her mouth and bit into the crepe in her hand, then pursed her clear, glossy lips while thinking.

“...Hmm, delicious! Senpai, try mine too.”

A girl’s anger comes and goes quickly.

Yuu looked at her lips and leaned in to bite her chocolate-flavored crepe.

After exchanging and finishing their snacks, Iroha said she wanted to use the restroom. Yuu bought two drinks and sat on a bench outside to wait.

He inserted the straw into the cup lid. Before he could take a sip, a girl with long black hair walked calmly and firmly through the crowd, stopping right in front of him.

“Tenkuji-kun, you look very happy.”

“...I’d be even happier if you hadn’t come to disturb me.”

Yuu set down his drink. His eyes were as cold as hers. They locked gazes.

“I’m no longer a rent-a-boyfriend. Why are you still interfering with the normal relationship I’m trying to live?”

Her clear eyes blinked. Yukino let out a soft sigh and slowly closed them.

“You should know the reason...”

Her voice, usually crystal-clear and melodious, now sounded sad and fragile.

She stood there, back straight and unyielding. Yet she also looked like she could shatter into pieces with just a gentle breeze.

Yuu shook his head. His tone didn’t change—still as icy calm.

“That’s your issue. Now I have someone I like, and I have feelings of my own that won’t disappear or be forgotten.”

“If you want to come and investigate the situation, go ahead. But don’t appear in front of me and Iroha.”

Hearing those emotionless words, Yukino bit her lip until it turned pale, her nails digging hard into her palm.

But she took a deep breath and quickly discarded her fragility. Her eyes became as clear as ice after snow melted, and she stared straight at him as usual.

“I hope you won’t regret it.”

“I’ve never regretted liking anyone.”

“...Does that include me too?”

Yuu smiled. “Yukinoshita, you can hear it, right? Whether I’m lying.”

“I’m not a lie detector... If it weren’t you, I wouldn’t be able to hear it either.”

Yukino smiled too. She pulled out a simply wrapped chocolate from her pocket and said openly, “This is for you. I hesitated whether to make it, but at that moment... I wanted to give you my handmade Valentine’s chocolate. I practiced hard for it. It’d be a shame not to give it.”

“Thank you,” Yuu accepted it. “But I won’t eat it.”

“Do whatever you want—throw it in the trash or give it to Sora. I don’t care.” Yukino shrugged. Her posture somehow resembled his—relaxed and free. “Well then, I’ll take my leave. Have a nice date.”

“Take care on your way.”

“By the way... Tenkuji-kun, I still like you.”

“Sorry. I’ll forever like Iroha.”

“I know.” Yukino turned her back to him. She lifted her chin slightly, took a deep breath, and said, “Oh, and you’d better not drink that beverage.”

Yuu froze. He looked at the two drinks placed on the bench. “...Who did it?”

“Why should I tell you?” Her voice sounded playful and satisfied. Yukino even stretched. “After all, we’re the same kind—we wouldn’t betray each other, would we?”

“Tch, whatever.” Yuu rubbed his forehead and sighed. “Anyway, thanks for the warning.”

“You’re welcome, former boyfriend.”

With that, Yukino stepped into the crowd. Her slender, composed figure quickly disappeared.

Not long after, Iroha returned from the restroom and waved at him.

“Sorry~ Did you wait long?”

“Not really.” Yuu made space. Iroha sat beside him until their shoulders touched. She glanced sideways, confused.

“Where are our drinks?”

“Some bugs got in, so I threw them away. We’ll buy new ones later.” Yuu looked at her innocent, cute expression, as if she knew nothing. The corner of his lips couldn’t help but lift. He said softly:

“Earlier, Yukinoshita came and spoke with me.”

“...”

Iroha blinked. The expression on her face slowly faded.

She slowly lowered her head. Her lips and teeth gently bit each other. Her face was shaded by her falling hair.

“Why did Senpai bring it up yourself... When I was planning to pretend I didn’t see anything.”

Yuu smiled and patted the back of her clenched hand on her knee. “There’s no harm in telling, right? I’m someone who likes to clear up misunderstandings as quickly as possible.”

“That’s all?” Iroha asked quietly.

Yuu shook his head. “Most importantly, I don’t want my most important kouhai to feel sad, pretend nothing happened, then lie awake at home overthinking it.”

“...”

Iroha suddenly looked up. Her large round eyes blinked rapidly, as if daydreaming. She stared straight at him.

“Why?” she asked, confused.

After a long silence, Yuu suddenly said something:

“...Love.”