Yuu 286-290

Title: An Unexpected Coincidence

The clock hands rotated with sunlight, slowly moving to the topmost position.

Seeing the beautiful face finally asleep—peaceful and lovely like a sleeping princess—Yuu silently exhaled in relief. His back slumped against the chair as he sighed softly.

“Dealing with a girl’s whining is surprisingly exhausting.”

His two previous girlfriends had been more independent and confident types. Though they too acted clingy and cute toward him, it was always within reasonable limits. In short, they were like normal people.

Masuzu, on the other hand, was the opposite.

On the surface, she was also confident, proud, and had high self-esteem, but deep down, she was extremely fragile. Yuu didn’t know if her brain was addled from fever, or if she’d simply grown too lazy to hide her true nature.

The moment he showed even slight rejection or disgust, this girl would instantly sink into dark emotions, wildly slapping negative labels onto herself.

“You don’t want me rubbing against you because I stink, right? Yeah, I know. Even though I shower every day, the foul scent of an evil woman leaking from my heart will never disappear... Someone like me, always hiding behind lies and disguises, relying only on bad jokes to entertain myself—just like a man who never cleans himself. The moment you get close, they emit a rotten stench like Boulogne old cheese.”

By the way, Boulogne old cheese was the world’s smelliest cheese, and Masuzu was far more fragrant than that... Anyway, after Yuu kissed her, that’s exactly how it smelled. Unfortunately, the other party completely refused to listen, even wanting to bury her head under the blanket so he’d sniff closer.

Besides, Masuzu was extremely jealous.

“Why aren’t you looking at me anymore? Why did you take out your phone? Did Dango-chan send you a message? Or does that junior whose eyes are glued to you want to invite you for a meal? Here I am, wearing nothing but pajamas, yet you’re pointing your camera at me. Do you want them to see me like this—weak and useless?! No, my heart is cold. Hug me quickly! Hug me, hug me, hug me, hug me—“

Then Masuzu would repeat those words like a broken machine. Not long after, she’d suddenly snap back to normal, chatting with him again as if nothing happened.

After experiencing Masuzu’s overly neurotic personality more deeply, Yuu finally realized:

Why the system asked him to fill the emptiness in her heart, and why he couldn’t bring himself to leave her.

After all, if left alone, sooner or later, Masuzu would break down.

Just like Yuuki Asuna, who lived under her mother’s pressure and could never be herself.

Masuzu’s family environment and past experiences might have also caused her to suppress her emotions for a long time—until now—

Until Yuu entered her home, Masuzu finally had someone she could trust, someone she could freely unleash her strange side with.

“Good grief, why has everything turned out like this... If I weren’t here, what would you all do?”

Yuu snorted softly, his tone slightly mocking.

Carrying the flag of justice, saving whoever he wanted to save, seeing smiles on their faces and thinking I’ve saved their lives—he wasn’t some arrogant hero like that.

Without the system, who would care about the psychological issues of a transfer student?

Who would become a hired boyfriend for an older sister they didn’t even know? And who would be forced into a fake marriage with a friend’s younger sister inside a game?

In any case, that person wasn’t him.

“So, this could be called a miracle. I can stay with you like this.”

His sigh slipped into the gaps of sunlight, falling slowly alongside golden particles.

Reaching out, he gently touched her forehead, brushing away her bangs, smoothing the crease between her brows, and checking her temperature.

“Good, her fever’s almost gone...”

She might not need until tomorrow. By this afternoon, Masuzu should recover.

...Yes, since she drank the entire porridge laced with medicine, it was natural she’d heal faster.

In fact, it’d be strange if her fever didn’t vanish immediately.

Yuu sighed. After playing with her hair, he pulled his hand back.

As for using a precious treasure from another world so freely on someone who would eventually forget him—was that considered wasteful...

To him, of course not.

He’d already used it on himself, on his sister, even on pets. Why wouldn’t he give it to Masuzu, the very source of the reward, and let her suffer from fever?

That’d be too inhumane.

And the remaining six drops—he didn’t plan to hoard them like a family treasure either. He’d use them when the time came, and if any remained, he’d see if he could analyze them later.

Anyway, it was something obtained easily, not yet at the stage where he needed to overly care about it.

“Well then, time to go.”

Rising from the chair, Yuu stretched his body, bones cracking.

But just that movement made Masuzu, who should’ve been sound asleep, murmur in her sleep. She seemed ready to wake up anytime.

Without hesitation, Yuu immediately activated Existence Adjustment, setting it to maximum level. Only then did the girl in bed calm down. After mumbling several times, she turned to face away from him.

“Really...”

Seeing her curled under the blanket like a little girl lacking security, Yuu couldn’t help smiling. Without thinking, he leaned down and gave a light kiss to the tip of her hair.

“Hurry up and return to being the usual Masuzu—brighter and more annoying. Sweet dreams.”

After whispering, Yuu didn’t linger. He turned and walked out.

At first, he hoped for a scene where Masuzu suddenly noticed his low presence status, called out to him, and asked where he was going.

But fantasies remained fantasies, just like his hope after the second mission—that Asuna would keep her promise and remember everything she’d forgotten. Precisely because they couldn’t come true, they became increasingly ridiculous.

Until the bedroom door quietly closed, the girl in bed slept peacefully and comfortably. She didn’t wake again to any sound.

As if, at last, someone could hold her hand and say goodnight before darkness arrived.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Taking the spare key from her house, locking the door, and slipping the key into the gap beside the door, Yuu walked toward the elevator.

As usual, he glanced around. He noticed this luxurious apartment seemed to have only two units per floor. The other unit had no door number, so it was probably still vacant.

The wall lights were soft. The red carpet in the corridor looked elegant and luxurious. Footsteps on it were nearly silent.

After looking around, he pressed the elevator button. The numbers rose from one to ten, but passed his floor and stopped at eleven.

“Is someone upstairs also pressing the elevator?” Yuu frowned slightly.

When residents from different floors press the down button, the elevator stops at the highest floor first, then descends gradually.

This shouldn’t need overthinking, but coincidentally, Yuu had just learned Yukino lived on the upper floor, and a strange premonition arose in his heart.

“No way it’d be that crazy—meeting her inside the elevator, right?”

Though it wouldn’t matter if they met. Even if Yukino knew they were just fake lovers, Yuu could use the excuse of visiting a poor girl with no friends—

(Wait, even if they were actually dating, what business is it of hers? No need for excuses—just tell the truth!)

Yuu instantly felt relieved, his expression becoming more relaxed.

The elevator soon descended. A sliding door sound echoed. Sure enough, someone stood in front of the elevator buttons. At first glance, he could only see wavy black hair with pink-tipped ends.

He stepped inside. After confirming the ground-floor button was lit, he glanced at the other person.

And unconsciously, he froze.

“Hmm? You...”

When their eyes met, the other person was also surprised. But after a brief silence, her thin lips slowly curved into a familiar joyful smile. Her beautiful eyes narrowed like a fox’s.

“I don’t know if Chiba City is too small, or if we’re truly destined~”

In the enclosed space as the elevator doors slowly closed, leaving only the two of them.

With a sweet yet dangerous aura, Haruno said, smiling widely,

“Long time no see, Tenkuji-kun.”

-

Title: Why? I’m Also Searching for the Reason

It wasn’t snow falling, but bright sunlight filling the floor.

Yuu stood at the back of the elevator, watching Haruno near the door as the numbers on the panel slowly decreased.

The unexpected shock only lasted a moment, then gave way to a surprised expression.

“Haruno-san? Did you come to see Yukinoshita?”

After asking flawlessly, Yuu mentally calculated the time needed for the elevator to reach the first floor.

—About twenty seconds, which would pass quickly.

Like a prisoner alone in a cage with a wild beast wanting to kick the door and escape—though logic said There’s nothing to worry about, she doesn’t remember the past, his feelings made Yuu unconsciously tense. He struggled hard against the awkward, suffocating atmosphere.

This reaction wasn’t normal.

One had no memories, the other had no emotions. They should be like strangers. Yet, for some reason, he couldn’t help caring about that person.

Last time, there were others around, so it hadn’t felt too intense. Now, they were alone together in the elevator—the feeling grew increasingly clear.

Yuu sneered inwardly.

(If we never met, I wouldn’t care about her life or death... Damn, are the habits left behind by this body really that hard to change?)

“Yeah. Lately, I’ve gotten used to visiting Yukinon. Teasing her is just as fun as teasing a cat!”

Seemingly unaware of his wariness, Haruno folded her arms and spoke casually. “What about you? You should’ve come to see your girlfriend, right? If I recall, her name is... Fujikawa Masuzu?”

The elevator reached the seventh floor.

“Her name is Natsukawa. You asked her so many things—you should at least remember her name,” Yuu replied.

—Sixth floor.

“Oh, she told you about that?” Haruno raised an eyebrow. Her gaze didn’t leave his face. Her tone was cheerful. “I didn’t mean to bother her. I was just a little too curious... You don’t mind, do you?”

Yuu answered calmly, “If she doesn’t mind, why should I?”

—Fifth floor.

“Is that so? Good. After all, you’re dating. I was afraid my questions last time—including those about you—might cause misunderstandings between you.”

Haruno nodded contentedly. Suddenly, she stepped away from the wall and moved closer to him.

“Oh, by the way, Tenkuji-kun...”

—Third floor.

“What is it?”

Seeing her face approaching with a smile, Yuu remained slightly distant and cautious. He clearly didn’t want to chat too long with her.

Yet Haruno persisted, asking directly, “Can I call you Yuu-chan? I feel that sounds more familiar.”

—Second floor.

“I’m sorry, but we aren’t quite that close. Though you have every right to call me whatever you like, to avoid misunderstandings with my jealous girlfriend, I hope you won’t call me that, Haruno-san.”

“...”

That cold, formal reply made Haruno fall silent. But a faint blush appeared on her cheeks. Her breath suddenly quickened, and her body trembled slightly.

Noticing the change, Yuu shivered.

(What’s wrong with her? Why is she suddenly so excited?)

(She’s never been this close to a sadomasochist before!)

“...Alright, if you don’t want me to, I’ll keep calling you as I am now.”

Taking a deep breath, Haruno shrugged casually.

At that moment, the elevator reached the first floor. The doors slowly slid open sideways.

“You’re giving up just like that?”

Before hastily stepping out, Yuu couldn’t help but ask.

The Haruno he knew was more arrogant and free-spirited than the woman in front of him. She’d never been this obedient or understanding.

“Why not? I don’t want you to hate me.”

That casual answer stunned Yuu.

Seeing his expression, Haruno smiled brightly and gently, like a neighbor’s older sister.

“No need to be so shocked, right? After all, at school, I begged you to take care of my foolish little sister.”

After that, she waved her hand, standing in front of the elevator without moving, giving him the way out. “Oh, I forgot something I left upstairs. You go first... Or, do you want to ride up again with me to find Yukinon?”

Yuu answered firmly, “I think not. She probably wouldn’t want to see me on a day off.”

He walked quickly past her. A familiar fragrance passed through his nose, stirring his heart—but it quickly vanished into the apartment lobby’s air.

When he glanced back, her eyes still held that joyful smile that never faded.

“Well then, see you later. Let’s chat again next time~”

“...Okay, if I have time.”

After those farewell words, the elevator doors fully closed and began ascending back to the tenth floor.

Watching the elevator pause briefly, Yuu slowly looked up, sighing with mixed emotions.

(Was it just my imagination? This woman... it feels like she’s almost remembering something...)

Though they had no connection, she sought him out.

Though she had no memories, she kept trying.

When speaking with her, Yuu felt like an NPC in a game continuously giving clues to the main character.

Seeing Haruno inch closer to the truth with his help, until one day she’d realize the final boss and ultimate reward was actually her, the NPC...

For some reason, Yuu felt a bit afraid.

Why?

Why did he feel afraid?

Even now, Yuu was still searching for the reason.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Inside the slowly rising elevator.

“...”

Haruno leaned against the wall, placed her palm over her chest, and closed her eyes attentively.

Her senses and mind sharpened to their peak. She had to remember every feeling from earlier and sense every change happening within her body.

Her heart pounded rapidly, and her entire face flushed red.

Perhaps because she was alone and had spoken with him, or perhaps because his scent lingered in the elevator, the reactions of a girl falling in love truly couldn’t stop. She desperately wanted to cheer joyfully inside the elevator.

Still, Haruno remained calm and analytical.

Besides, when treated coldly by him, something locked deep in her brain seemed to finally breathe. That was why she had such a strange reaction.

It wasn’t that she enjoyed being treated coldly—it was because she realized she was getting closer to the truth. She had to suppress the sudden wave of joy.

And a vague shadow emerged from her heart, making this mirage-like illusion feel slightly more real.

(Tenkuji-kun... No, I’ll just call you Yuu-kun.)

(Whatever you prefer.)

(Then how about Yuu-chan?)

(Better not. Just Yuu-kun will do.)

Scenes that never happened, conversations she’d never heard.

Yet now, it was as if she suddenly remembered something, and it abruptly slipped into her otherwise dull past memories.

The hand resting on her chest unconsciously clenched into a fist.

Haruno bit her lip hard and frowned. She murmured in dilemma inside the empty elevator.

“There must be something strange... That autumn festival couldn’t have been our first meeting. I must’ve met him earlier—much, much earlier...”

(Earlier than that—was it during summer break? My changes started during summer break too. Something must’ve happened then, something big enough to alter all my habits!)

Pulling out the wooden comb from her pocket, she pressed it against her forehead. Haruno closed her eyes and meditated for several seconds, but still found no answer.

“Just wait... This time, it was too easy for him to escape. I just need to wait for a time when he can’t run away...”

Thinking this, her deeply furrowed face finally showed a slight smile.

At that moment, this was no longer just about uncovering the root.

Yes, she’d have to squeeze him from every side!

*DING!*

In the middle of her reverie, the elevator reached the eleventh floor.

Of course, Haruno didn’t get off. She pressed the button for the first floor again, preparing to descend and go home to eat.

And she unconsciously hoped—

That she could meet that boy on the way home, and go with him to many fun and interesting places.

“Really, these are funny thoughts—almost like love at first sight.”

She mocked herself, yet still hummed joyfully.

-

Title: Winter Has Arrived

Monday, mid-October.

The green leaves on the trees slowly turned yellow. School uniforms officially transitioned from summer to winter wear. Long-sleeved shirts and formal-style jackets now covered the girls’ bodies, who had previously worn short-sleeved uniforms.

The skirts remained short, completely unaffected by the cold weather, proudly showcasing their beauty. Only the frequency of thermal leggings had increased. Standing at the school gate, one could see many pairs of black socks walking around, creating a refreshing and delightful sight.

“After the autumn field trip, the feeling of autumn is really setting in.”

Yuu murmured casually, then walked into the school with the crowd of students. He changed his shoes at his usual locker.

His Existence Adjustment ability was always active, making him indistinguishable from other students. He calmly and leisurely walked toward his classroom.

Passing through the corridor adjacent to the athletic field, the shouts from sports clubs outside were full of energy, adding a spark of youthful passion to the school.

They seemed to be preparing for the upcoming sports festival after the culture festival. Lately, their voices counting laps around the track had grown louder, as if trying to make the entire autumn season surrender to their spirit.

“Good, very energetic!”

Praising with an indifferent tone, Yuu continued walking, casually entering the school building.

He was deeply grateful to have joined the Literature Club, which was extremely free... Or rather, the Service Club, which could do whatever they wanted—except when there was a request.

Aside from the club president’s slightly difficult personality, the Service Club had almost no major flaws—even that trait could be managed.

Yes, all he needed to do was become more troublesome than the other party.

In this regard, Yuu felt he could replace that arrogant Ice Queen anytime—step on her and become the most troublesome club president.

But doing so would be too much effort. He also didn’t want to use the Service Club to fulfill his own desires. Sometimes, just sitting there, teasing cats, and passing time was enjoyable enough. No need to do unnecessary things.

(Hmm, next time I chat with Yukinoshita, I’ll deliberately say this to annoy her.)

“Good morning.”

“Morning~”

Entering Class F, Yuu deactivated Existence Adjustment and greeted his classmates as they passed by.

Yumiko entered the classroom and, as she walked past him, said flatly, “Yo, morning.”

Yuu raised an eyebrow. This was the first time Yumiko had greeted him. He should respond properly.

“Good morning, Miura-san.”

“What? Too formal, you know? Hah~” Covering her mouth, Yumiko said lazily before walking to her seat.

The conversation ended there. After all, they were only that close.

This autumn field trip, although they hadn’t become close friends like Yuigahama claimed, their relationship had improved. The tense atmosphere from before was gone whenever they met.

But Yuu guessed that in the other person’s heart, he was still that bastard with a girlfriend who flirted with Yuigahama, right? Yumiko just didn’t show that disgusted look because she respected Yuigahama. The emotional distance between them might as well be from Hokkaido to Okinawa.

“Yuu, good morning.”

While thinking, his close friend—whose emotional distance might only be a few meters away—appeared.

Seeing Totsuka’s still pale and cute face, Yuu smiled naturally. “Good morning, Totsuka. No morning practice today?”

“Yeah!” While putting on his uniform and carrying his school bag, Totsuka also smiled and nodded. He added for clarification, “It’s not because I’m lazy. The prefectural championship is starting soon, so every club is competing for field usage rights. The tennis courts are under renovation, so morning practice is temporarily suspended just for today.”

“So after this, you’ll train every afternoon and evening? Must be exhausting.” Yuu once again felt grateful he wasn’t part of such a tiring, rule-heavy club.

“That’s how sports clubs are,” Totsuka said with a bitter smile. Though his gentle, kind eyes held helplessness, there was not a trace of reluctance or hatred. “Next week we’ll also have training, you know? It overlaps with the culture festival, so it’s really busy.”

“Training, huh...” Yuu paused briefly, then sank into thought.

Did the Service Club have something like training?

A strange club whose goal was fulfilling others’ wishes to gain growth opportunities—if they were to hold training, maybe they’d volunteer at nursing homes or orphanages?

But that would overlap with regular Service Club activities. Yukino definitely wouldn’t want to follow the same path as others. If it were her, she’d surely say, “Everyone has their own responsibilities. We must do what only we can do.”

Then again, would they work part-time at a maid cafe for a day?

Great idea! Yuu’s eyes sparkled.

Of course, what he meant was him as the customer, and them as the maids serving him.

The various scenes flashing in his mind were ones that would make Masuzu furious if she found out.

“Oh yeah, Yuu.” Totsuka’s voice pulled him back from his fantasy. “Has any other club asked you to help?”

“Help? Help with what?”

“Aren’t various competitions starting soon? Everyone wants good results. Not only are there cash prizes, but winning also boosts club status. So while increasing training, they’re also looking for other ways to improve their chances of victory.”

Yuu immediately understood. “You mean, someone came to ask me to be a coach or reinforcement?”

“Yes. Honestly, I even considered doing it myself... For us, who haven’t had achievements in years, this competition’s result is crucial.” Totsuka scratched his slightly reddening cheek. In his soft, friendly blue eyes shone determination and confidence. “But in the end, I’m the tennis club captain. If I don’t fight with my own strength until the end, how can I ask my club members to endure intense training? Ultimately, we must grow strong through ourselves!”

After saying that, seeing the admiration on Yuu’s face, he smiled shyly and narrowed his eyes. “So besides us, there must be other sports clubs wanting your help—either as a coach or temporary member... After all, you did amazing at the autumn show. Everyone seems to think you’re some sort of sports prodigy.”

Yuu shrugged, slightly disagreeing. “I’ve never heard that, and no one’s come asking for help. The Service Club doesn’t accept requests related to that either.”

“Eh? Really...?” Totsuka looked quite surprised.

“Well, you’re my friend, so of course you don’t mind. But for people who don’t know me well, even if they know I have that ability, I’m still an outsider. Letting me comment on everything would probably feel worse than losing, right?”

Shifting his perspective slightly, Yuu understood. “After all, these are long-prepared matches where they want to win through their own efforts. Letting an outsider interfere, commenting on everything, even displacing main team members—even if they win in the end, the feeling wouldn’t be pleasant.”

“Mm, true.” After Yuu explained, Totsuka nodded in agreement, then smiled happily. “If it weren’t you, I might never have thought of that. We both hate losing.”

Yuu looked relaxed. “As for me, I don’t mind teaching a few things. But actually joining the competition? Forget it. I don’t have the time or interest.”

Totsuka’s smile turned helpless. His pale cheeks puffed slightly. “Geez, never say that in front of others, okay? Even if it’s you, people will hate you.”

“Don’t worry, lots of people already hate me. One more won’t matter.”

“By the way, second semester isn’t just about the field trip and various competitions—the culture festival and student council elections are also happening together, right? There’s so much going on...”

After chatting with Totsuka until class meeting time, watching him return to his seat, Yuu finally pulled out his copy of Tagore’s Poetry Collection, ready to spend time reading non-academic books.

As the top-ranked student in his year—one who could master anything he saw or studied—Yuu naturally couldn’t waste energy on rigid academic subjects. As long as he maintained first place and wasn’t overtaken by rivals below him, the rest was about reading more books and expanding his learning scope. Whether famous literary works or financial reports, everything could become his target.

Specifically, he could take after his predecessor—the former top student of the year, not his girlfriend—Yukinoshita Yukino.

In the Service Club, she never seemed to touch textbooks. Always holding famous literary works, mostly original editions—just that alone surpassed many smart students.

Though he didn’t plan to imitate her, it didn’t stop Yuu from viewing her as a good example in studying... After all, without cheating, he’d still be struggling in the middle ranks.

“Hah... hah... Hmm, finally made it!”

Just as Yuu was about to open his book, the dango-headed girl burst into class, a loaf of bread in her mouth, rushing in late.

Realizing no teacher was at the podium yet, she patted her ample chest and let out an incoherent sigh of relief.

At first glance, this scene indeed felt like a cliché shojo manga moment.

...As long as what she was biting wasn’t a baguette.

“Yui, why are you biting a baguette to school?” Yumiko immediately asked. Other classmates also stared in surprise.

Yuigahama seemed to just realize she looked odd. She took the bread, touched her blushing cheek with the unbitten end, and smiled awkwardly.

“Hehehe... At home, we only had baguettes, so Mom told me to bring it to school so it wouldn’t go stale...”

Yumiko rolled her eyes. “Even so, carrying it in your hand would’ve been better than biting it. Didn’t you feel something off while running?”

Of course she did. All the way from home, everyone had stared at her with the same weird look his classmates had now.

“I... I just woke up, so I didn’t think too much about it...”

Amid her weak defense, everyone burst into laughter. The classroom atmosphere became lively.

Unconsciously touching the dango beside her head, Yuigahama looked around at the noisy scene, slightly confused. Yet she couldn’t help letting out a small laugh herself, then slowly walked to her seat.

“Yui, can you finish that?”

As she passed Yuu’s seat, a calm voice, mismatched with the cheerful surroundings, sounded.

Yuigahama stopped, looked at the baguette in her hand, then at him propping his chin while staring at her. She instantly understood, and her smile bloomed naturally and happily.

“If I say I can’t finish it, will Yuu help me?”

“You don’t care yourself—why should I kindly help you?” Yuu sneered, extending his hand like collecting a debt. “I haven’t finished breakfast. Give me a third.”

“...Oh!”

Yuigahama nearly burst into laughter. Her face flushed red as she gazed softly at him while he looked relaxed.

Under everyone’s gaze, Yuu took a third of the baguette. Flipping a page in his book, he took small, deliberate bites.

And, as if time itself slowed, moving into a café filled with music.

The young man under sunlight, accompanied by tranquility, propped up the right side of his face with one hand. Amid the quiet sounds of turning pages, he ate with graceful, relaxed movements, making the baguette feel like an elegant English biscuit.

Unconsciously, the students in 2-F stopped laughing and making noise. They turned their gazes toward him, as if not wanting to disturb that unique, peaceful atmosphere—even their breathing grew quieter.

Of course, no one paid attention to Yuigahama, who had already returned to her seat.

“Existence Adjustment and Spotlight... Their combined effect is pretty good.”

Observing the surroundings with the corner of his eye, Yuu felt proud inside.

During the autumn show, he’d only used Spotlight during performances and received enthusiastic applause. Now, if he combined both and played music, the response would surely be even more intense and captivating.

But Yuu wouldn’t do something unprofitable like that unless there was a very urgent reason, or he suddenly felt like trying it—after all, he was already popular enough.

“Good morning, everyone. We’ll begin our class meeting... Eh, what’s going on here?”

With a frozen yawn expression on her face, Hiratsuka opened her mouth wide, staring in confusion at the unusually silent classroom. She quickly spotted the source of that overwhelming presence.

Then she instantly understood, slapped the desk twice loudly, and shouted, “Tenkuji, did you come for a photoshoot or MV filming? It’s time for class meeting—finish your breakfast already!”

“...”

-

Title: Masuzu Rises Again

At lunchtime, in a small forest within Sobu High’s campus.

“Masuzu rises again—!”

Inside the pavilion, the beautiful silver-haired girl with waist-length hair shouted with exaggerated expression and body movements, as if trying to show just how excited she was.

She stepped onto the stone bench, tilted her head toward the sky, and became a narrator with a deep yet gentle voice: “After one day of rest, empowered by the Love Porridge made by her boyfriend, she who suffered from illness has finally risen from hell... This Masuzu is now completely different. Even if countless love rivals stand before her, she can crush them all with her beauty!”

“There’s too much to comment on—I’m too lazy.”

Yuu didn’t even look at her solo performance. He sat across the stone table and calmly pulled out his bento box. “No matter if you’re reenacting JOJO or Baki, stop using repetitive phrases—I still want to eat.”

“Why does ‘Love Porridge’ bother you? Wasn’t the porridge bad?” Masuzu frowned in dissatisfaction, then clutched her chest dramatically, looking intoxicated. “Now that I remember, it was truly the most delicious food I’ve ever eaten... Of course the taste was extraordinary, but most importantly, it contained my boyfriend’s love and sincerity! Every time I took a spoonful, it was as if he entered my stomach, melted into essence by gastric acid, and would stay with me forever...”

“Stop. That’s already disgusting enough.” Yuu angrily tapped the table. “Sit down and eat. If not, I’ll go eat at the Service Club.”

“So you’re threatening me with another woman. Truly worthy of being called Sato Yuu, Demon King—you really know how to exploit women’s weaknesses.” Shrugging with resigned tone, Masuzu tucked her hair behind her ear and sat back on the stone bench.

But she didn’t sit directly across from him—she sat beside him. Her soft arm pressed tightly against him, and a unique girl’s fragrance slowly spread.

His motion to open his bento froze mid-air. Yuu glanced at her. “Don’t arbitrarily change my family name. I’m not trying to threaten you either... And you’re too close.”

“Really?” Masuzu didn’t care.

Despite many empty seats around, she stuck closely to his side like magnets snapping together, even naturally wrapping her arms around his. “I think this distance is perfect. Isn’t the weather getting cold lately? If we don’t press our bodies together to generate warmth between us, we might get sick a second time.”

“That’s such a forced argument...” Yuu sighed, too lazy to argue with his girlfriend who’d started acting up again. He let her gently rub her cheek against his shoulder.

“Anyway, if you won’t eat, just be quiet. I’m hungry.”

Masuzu opened her eyes, which had been half-closed from comfort. She spoke firmly, as if it couldn’t be denied: “I want to eat your bento. I want to eat anything you made with your own hands.”

His movement paused. Yuu lowered his head, staring at her in utter shock.

“Are you sure?”

Masuzu kept her expression unchanged, speaking in a normal tone: “What’s there to doubt? Compared to your cooking, Weider-in jelly is nothing more than something dirty and disgusting, like frog urine. Isn’t it obvious which one to choose? I hope you don’t question my intelligence.”

Yuu’s lips twitched slightly. “Something like frog urine—I found an entire carton of it in your house yesterday...”

“Yeah. So you know...”

Masuzu suddenly laughed.

Like discovering a treasure she never wanted to let go of, she hugged his arm tighter. She buried her face against his chest, took a deep breath, then said softly:

“Before meeting you, how pitiful this Masuzu was.”

Yuu fell silent for a moment.

“...Is it really that excessive?”

“Yes. My words are truth.”

“Fine. If you’re happy, I’m happy too.”

Facing Masuzu in full clingy mode, Yuu finally smiled helplessly and chose to surrender.

Unlike before, she seemed to have started acknowledging her heart’s desires and chasing them shamelessly—like a girl who had just fallen in love.

This shift in attitude was, to Yuu, both unexpected and understandable.

Unexpected because after recovering from her fever, from online to offline, from last night to this morning, it was as if a fuse in her brain had blown. Her emotions were wildly energetic. Masuzu wasn’t just expressing fiery feelings toward him—she immediately turned those feelings into action, clinging to him like this nonstop.

But considering her personality and what Yuu observed yesterday, Masuzu was someone deeply lacking and intensely desiring. So such a reaction wasn’t strange—perhaps also influenced by the porridge.

One couldn’t overlook the happiness food brought to humans, especially when seriously ill. Even a simple bowl of plain porridge could be more touching than luxurious daily meals.

—After all, since their relationship evolved from hired boyfriend to now, simply being by her side had at least filled the emptiness in her heart.

Seeing the girl leaning on him, her small face showing calmness and satisfaction, Yuu thought about this.

If this wasn’t considered completing the mission, then how far must he go to meet the system’s requirements? Did he actually have to fill her body and soul?

“Why?”

Masuzu lifted her eyes, confused by his complex expression. “Weren’t we going to eat? I’m waiting for you to feed me.”

Snapping back to reality, Yuu temporarily set aside those thoughts. He shook his arm as a signal. “I already prepared disposable chopsticks for you. Take them and eat yourself... Even if you refuse to sit across from me, at least let go of my hand. How am I supposed to eat?”

“But I deliberately left your right hand free.” Masuzu sighed regretfully. She finally released her left hand. “If you can’t even eat like this, then you’re only growth rank E... Well, even so, I still love you, Yuu.”

“You’re the one who hates talking about love the most.” Yuu opened his bento and said casually.

Masuzu instead showed a charming smile, speaking with deep meaning: “Yes, I hate it. That’s why I love doing this with you the most.”

“That makes absolutely no sense.”

Handing disposable chopsticks to Masuzu, Yuu picked up his own. Just as he was about to enjoy his lunch, his phone suddenly vibrated.

In front of Masuzu, Yuu didn’t hide it. He took out his phone and turned on the screen.

A message appeared. The sender was Mizuhara Chizuru—the girl they hadn’t spoken to since meeting at the café that day.

Mizuhara Chizuru: {Sorry to disturb. Do you have any free time recently?}

Yuu was surprised and raised an eyebrow. He hadn’t even opened the message further to reply when he felt a hot yet cold gaze directed at his face. He unconsciously looked up.

Beside him, the silver-haired devil-like girl smiled brightly, her eyes blank, asking cheerfully:

“Who is she?”

-

Title: Receive It, the Five-Centimeter Radius Splash of Rero!

“She’s a college student I met on the street.”

Yuu paused briefly. Without a trace of guilt, he answered honestly.

This answer clearly didn’t satisfy Masuzu. Or rather, she didn’t believe his indifferent attitude.

Her fingers gripped Yuu’s arm tighter. Masuzu widened her large, dull eyes. Red lines appeared in them, staring at him with dark, vengeful intensity.

“A college student you met on the street? When did you meet? Date, hour, minute, and second? How many words have you exchanged since then? What’s the closest distance you’ve ever been to each other? Is she after your looks, your talent, or some other ability? Does she even know you have a girlfriend?”

“Whoa, whoa, does it really need to be this excessive...” Yuu complained.

Masuzu sneered coldly. She spoke rapidly: “Excessive? Not at all. This is just a normal girl’s reaction. Whose fault is it that my boyfriend is so popular? No matter how cautious I am to prevent him from being snatched away by random women appearing out of nowhere, it’ll never be too much.”

Yuu was utterly speechless. “Your jealousy is even stronger than a real girlfriend’s.”

“Of course. How can mere dating compare to our bond?” Masuzu proudly puffed her chest, then lowered her voice, leaned in close, and stared into his eyes. “So don’t try to change the subject... Tell me about this Mizuhara Chizuru. What does she want from you?”

“I can tell you, but before that—“ Yuu placed his phone down, picked up his chopsticks, took a piece of scrambled egg from his bento, and fed it into his mouth. “How about we calm down first? Jealousy isn’t bad, but having a composed attitude that can handle anything—I think a girl like that would be more charming.”

“...” While chewing, Masuzu swallowed the scrambled egg in silence.

She bit her lip thoughtfully. Her slightly neurotic, forced expression slowly faded. Once her eyes sparkled again, she finally returned to her usual calm and serenity.

“You’re right. It seems I was too overwhelmed by anxiety...” Lowering her head slightly, Masuzu sighed. Her clear blue pupils looked at him again, filled with seriousness. “Consider this a lesson. I’ll improve myself.”

Yuu smiled. He pushed the bento box toward her. “No need to treat it as such a serious lesson. There are plenty of people more neurotic than you... But you’re my only girlfriend, so I just wanted to say this.”

Masuzu froze slightly. She hadn’t expected the other party to suddenly say something like that. Her lips trembled, and in the end, she said nothing. Only the corners of her mouth curled into a happy smile.

Then, as she shifted her gaze and turned her face aside, she suddenly pressed her soft lips against his cheek. Just one brief touch—then she pulled away.

“Why suddenly?” Yuu unconsciously touched his cheek, staring at her in surprise.

Masuzu touched her lips, her face flushed, and she showed a bright smile like a summer flower.

“It’s fine. That’s a reward for saying something nice.”

Even though they’d shared far more intense kisses before, a cheek kiss was merely a polite gesture, like a greeting.

Yet right now, she was far shyer than she’d ever been in the past.

As he explained what had happened between him and Chizuru in the past, Yuu also replied to her message on his phone.

Yuu: {Can you tell me what it’s about?}
Chizuru: {It’s about acting. I’d like to ask for your advice.}
Yuu: {I’ll ask my girlfriend first, then reply later.}

Though trying hard not to show emotion, Masuzu couldn’t help but nod in satisfaction when she saw that sentence.

They shared the delicious homemade bento while discussing Chizuru.

Not long after, another message appeared.

Chizuru: {You’re already dating? Congratulations. The last time we met, I thought you still needed time.}

He placed his phone on the table. Both froze when they saw the reply.

Yuu quickly realized—Chizuru and Yuigahama had met at a family restaurant while studying. Judging from her words, she probably assumed Yuigahama had become his girlfriend.

But before Yuu could reply, he heard a familiar murmur beside him:

“Dating already? Last time we met?... Seems like a lot happened without me knowing.”

“Uh...”

Yuu turned back. What he saw wasn’t the cold, jealous face he expected, but a girl trying to remain calm, smiling faintly with slightly trembling lips as she looked at him.

“Yuu, I—the magnanimous one—am waiting for your explanation.”

“...”

Yuu fell silent for a moment, then chuckled. He stroked her head. “Is this called learning and immediately applying it? You’re truly impressive.”

“Don’t try changing the subject with flattery.” Masuzu’s tone remained gentle, but her stance was uncompromising. “If you don’t give me a satisfying answer, you won’t leave this pavilion today.”

And the truth Yuu told clearly didn’t satisfy her.

So, before lunch ended, he was not only punished with rubbing, but also engaged in a short tongue duel with the girl.

“This is my powerful kissing technique I learned from Master Kakyoin, after long training with cherries! After hundreds of rero practices, I’ve finally mastered this incredible tongue skill. You definitely can’t withstand it—receive it, Yuu! The five-centimeter radius splash of rero!”

Not long after, Masuzu was panting heavily and defeated. Her legs were even slightly wobbly as she walked out of the pavilion.

The facts proved that although training your tongue with cherries was useful, it still couldn’t defeat a cheater.

In the end, Yuu and Chizuru agreed to meet tomorrow afternoon after school at Angel Cafe.

They didn’t specifically discuss what they’d talk about, only knew it was related to acting. Her attitude was sincere, so he felt bad refusing.

And a similar incident had happened before—that is, the incident where Yuu had an appointment with his junior.

Back then, Masuzu chose to hide and eavesdrop. She saw the juniors flirting with Yuu and seemingly ready to go somewhere secluded to “communicate” (from her personal perspective).

But this time, something had changed in her heart. Masuzu decided to accompany him openly—as his girlfriend!

Chizuru was initially hesitant, but once she learned that Masuzu already knew about the fake girlfriend arrangement, she finally agreed to meet both of them—she had no choice unless she wanted to give up seeking Yuu’s advice.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

After lunch, the afternoon classes quickly passed.

Yuu had just finished packing his bag when Masuzu appeared at the door of Class F, smiling sweetly and greeting him.

“Sweetheart~ Let’s go home together~”