Chapter 1: Come To Want

I had a dream.

It must have taken place in New York, US.

Many beautiful women and handsome men were walking around, and I was in
the center of them.

Ah――――this is where I am now, huh.

Though it was a dream, I easily accepted that fact.

[Hey, Mia. Are you ready to go?]

"......OK, anytime."

I threw the "script" down on the chair I was sitting on and stood up.

This was a dream. But it was a dream that was not so far away.

Dressed in a glamorous outfit, I moved to the front of the camera.

I took a breath and look at him, who is holding my bag.

He makes eye contact with me and then――――.

Leaving aside a retort of "we are not rascals", the four of us are working together
to carry the ingredients to the cooking area outside the cottage.

The meats, including sausages and other such items, are not cheap, but are all
well-processed products. Grilling them over a charcoal fire must be delicious.

"Rintaro, grill me a lot of meat." (Rei)

"Hold on, hold on. We haven't even started the fire yet." (Rintaro)
I suppress Rei's urging and prepare charcoals and an igniter.

The actuality is that I've never done the work of lighting a charcoal fire outside
like this, so I've been secretly longing to do this.

With my heart racing, and following the fire-starting manual in the cottage, I
start to light the fire. It is my first time doing this, so I struggle with it for a
while. When I finally succeeded in lighting a decent charcoal fire, I feel a sense
of accomplishment run through my entire body.

And there, my dream came to an end.

◇◆◇◆

It was the second half of August.

My best friend, Inaba Yukio, went on an overseas trip with his parents.

Am I taking care of her? Otosaki Rei, a very popular idol that I'm taking care of,
seems to be busy with recording these days and hasn't been home much. When
she did come back, she looked very tired and went straight to sleep.

She is a monster of stamina, including her physical abilities, but looking at how
exhausted she is She must be working very hard.

I, whose motto is "don't work," can't stand this kind of work at all.

(Because I...... have a hard time even in this situation.)

I sip the melon soda I got from the drink bar through a straw.

Then I look at the two boys sitting on the couch in front of me.

"Hey, guys, what should I do to get...... Azusa to look at me?" (Yuusuke)

"What do you mean by, 'What should I do?'...... All you should do is
spectacularly hit on her." (Ryuuji)

Doumoto, what do you mean by "hit on her"? You don't mean physically, do
you?
This place is the family restaurant where I met Nikaido before.

Kakihara had called me to visit this place again.

At first, I was reluctant, but my weak will was easily broken when Kakihara
offered to pay for my lunch.

So I ended up being treated to a set of spaghetti and a drink bar.

"Hit on her this! Hit on her that, I even got turned down for a date, you know!?"
(Yuusuke)

"Then you probably don't have enough power! You have to hit her with more
power!" (Ryuuji)

"That's only going to blow up Azusa!" (Yuusuke)

Seriously, what the h*ll are you guys talking about?

I cough one cough and interrupt their conversation.

I'm here in a position to give relationship advice, so I'll do my job at least.

"Well, I guess it's hard to get someone to suddenly turn around." (Rintaro)

"Well, that may be so, but......" (Yuusuke)

"The priority is to make her aware of you as a man, right? For example, saving
Nikaido-san from a predicament." (Rintaro)

".......I've done that before." (Yuusuke)

――――So you've.

This guy had saved Nikaido from being picked up many times on her way home
from cram school.

Then I asked her.

So Kakihara Yuusuke is a prince to you.

And Nikaido replied,

No, I think that's different.

Sorry Kakihara, but I really don't think she has a feeling for you.

If there was a turnaround from here, I think I'll forever be telling your story in
the drinking community. Well, I don't think I'll have any drinking buddies once I
become a full-time househusband, though.

"Isn't there anything else? Something like a one-hit turn-table strategy?" (Ryuuji)

Stop it, Doumoto. Don't say that so clearly. By saying turn-table means he's
losing now, right? Don't make Kakihara face reality anymore.

"Hey, Yuusuke-kun. You're not going to give up at all, are you?" (Rintaro)

"...... Yeah, I'm not going to give up. Unless Azusa gets a boyfriend or I am
completely rejected." (Yuusuke)

"Maybe it's bad to say, but Yuusuke-kun, you're quite popular and I think you
can always have a good relationship with a girl anytime you want to. But even
so?" (Rintaro)

"Yeah, I can only think of Azusa." (Yuusuke)

"...... I understand. If you say that much." (Rintaro)

I'll be honest. I am genuinely starting to support Kakihara.

At first, I was melancholy that I got involved in something

troublesome――――well, I am still melancholy, but I can sympathize with and
like Kakihara's single-mindedness.

Now Nikaido has no romantic feelings for him. It'll only be a nuisance if the
obstacles are removed badly.

Even so, I wish Kakihara's feelings will come true if at all possible.

I want to do something about it as long as I don't have to sacrifice myself.

The answer I came up with is to take advantage of an event.

"Yuusuke-kun, the school festival." (Rintaro)

"What?" (Yuusuke)

"Confession at the festival. Do you know it? There's an urban legend in our high
school." (Rintaro)

"I'm pretty sure it is...... that if you confess your feelings on the stage that is set
up for the closing party, you'll always succeed." (Yuusuke)

"Yes, that's it." (Rintaro)

At our school festival, there is an event called the Closing Party, in which
students who have worked hard reward themselves.

Even the teachers, who are usually strict, loosen their watchful eyes on this
occasion and allow a certain amount of misbehavior to go unchecked.

At the closing party, there is a stage called the Free Stage.

On that stage, there is a 15-minute exclusive time for every participant, which is
used, for example, by students who are not in the light music club to play in a
band, by dancers who dance for fun, or by dancers who form a comic duo to
show their comic talents.

There is an urban legend that says that the feelings of those who confess their
love there will always be fulfilled.

To be precise, it is not so vague as to be an urban legend.

This is because no matter in which generation, couples have always been

formed.

With the help of this event, which can now be called a jinx, it may become a
little easier to succeed in a confession that would normally fail.

――――Well, as a matter of fact.

There is no doubt that by making a big public confession, you are creating an
atmosphere that makes it difficult for the other person to refuse.

It is said that there are couples who accepted the confession on the spot but
broke up within a week.

I can only say that it is a very cowardly move, but I don't think Nikaido would
let the atmosphere of the place get the better of her.

She is strong.

She has the power to say that what is impossible is impossible, and the result is
that she turns down Kakihara's date invitation.

In other words, there is a high probability that he would not be able to go out
with her even if he went that far.――――If he is rejected on such a public
stage, it will fulfill Kakihara's condition of being completely rejected.

And that would end all my trouble at once.

"Hey, hold on. It's okay to use the free stage, but isn't that for those who have
something to show? I don't think it's acceptable to use it for a confession."
(Ryuuji)

Oh, you have a surprisingly sharp point, Doumoto.

"If this idea goes through, you'll need to think of something to put on the show.
How about you guys doing a two-person comedy act?" (Rintaro)

"Then confessing after the comedy act, how does that sound......?" (Yuusuke)

"...... That sounds good." (Ryuuji)

Yup, that's not a comedy act anymore.

So what is it then? Something that can be performed by a maximum of two

people, something that creates an atmosphere of confession.

If it's just one person, then doing a solo performance will do.

Oh, this is a good idea.

"How about a solo performance――――" (Rintaro)

"That's it! Let's form a band!" (Ryuuji)

――――What?

"I play drums as a hobby! Yuusuke has a guitar too, right?" (Ryuuji)

"What? O-oh yeah......, the one you and I went to buy before." (Yuusuke)

"That's it! I've only played with it a few times and then stopped, but now is the
time to use it again!" (Ryuuji)

I see, a band, huh.

If so, depending on the song, you can bring the atmosphere to that of a
confession.

But a band with just a guitar and drums....... seems to be quite difficult.

"Rintaro is the bassist! That makes it a three-piece band!" (Ryuuji)

How can that be?

"No, you see...... I can't play bass at all, you know?" (Rintaro)

"Don't worry! We still have more than a month to go, we will somehow manage
to play at least one song!" (Ryuuji)

That's the logic of someone who can play.

I'm a complete amateur, and I have to start from scratch, staring at sheet music
and letting my fingers memorize it.

I understand how difficult it is.

No matter how much I practice, the level of difficulty itself won't seem to
decrease.

"Rintaro......! Please! Please, form a band with us!" (Yuusuke)

"......" (Rintaro)

No, It's impossible. Think with common sense.

But there is a law of 'he who smelt it dealt it'. It'll be irresponsible, even among
kids, to let them get to this point and then just abandon them.

Fortunately――――I have time.

I still have two weeks of summer break left, so if I stay home and keep
practicing, I might be able to make it.

......Maybe?

◇◆◇◆

"But I don't have a bass, to begin with." (Rintaro)

I am quite reluctant to buy a bass that costs at least several tens of thousands of
yen for a 15-minute live performance at a school festival.

I don't know anyone who has one, so I can't even borrow one.

"Actually, Honoka has it. She bought it so that me, Yuusuke, and her could play
together, but she got tired of it first." (Ryuuji)

"Nogi-san is the bassist?" (Rintaro)

Well, considering Nogi's personality, she will certainly get tired of it soon.

I think she would enjoy playing guitar, drums, or vocals more. It is just a selfish
impression, though.

"I don't think she's going to throw it away, and I think we can borrow it
tomorrow." (Ryuuji)

"...... Okay. If you insist." (Rintaro)

I don't really want to appear in public, but Kakihara is the star of the show.

If I play indifferently, I won't leave much of an impression.

Besides――――I'd be lying if I say I don't have an interest in the instrument.

"Yuusuke is definitely a guitarist and vocalist. He's a good singer and very
skilled. We will have a microphone in front of us for the chorus, though."
(Ryuuji)

"......Isn't my role too heavy?" (Yuusuke)

"But wouldn't it be better if we just recruited a vocalist?" (Ryuuji)

"What about Honoka? (Yuusuke)

"The ultimate goal is to confess your feelings, so wouldn't it be strange if there is

another girl in the band?" (Ryuuji)

"Aah...... You got a point." (Yuusuke)

I can't say what exactly, but I generally agreed with Doumoto's opinion.

Well, in short, the idea is that he wants to do stupid things with just the boys.

"......Maybe I can make it if it's the song I've been practicing." (Yuusuke)

"Alright, then it's decided!" (Ryuuji)

Now it's decided.

It will be what it will be. This event is for Kakihara's confession in the first
place, and I just have to do the bare minimum of work.

So――――.

"――――What about the song?" (Rintaro)

"I'm glad you asked! If we're talking about a man's love song, it's definitely that
one!" (Ryuuji)

The title of the song Doumoto told me is a famous love song that even I know.

◇◆◇◆
The next day.

I visit the station nearest to the school.

It is to pick up the bass from Nogi.

After our discussion at the family restaurant, Doumoto explained the situation to
her and received a reply saying that I could pick it up the next day.

And this is how this happened――――.

"Hey, Shidou-kun! Hello again!" (Honoka)

"Ah, Nogi-san." (Rintaro)

"Hey, did I keep you waiting long?" (Honoka)

"No, I just got here a few minutes ago." (Rintaro)

"I see." (Honoka)

Precisely, twelve and a bit minutes.

But under the blazing sun, it's more than twelve minutes!

"Here, then, is the promised bass."

Saying this, Nogi hands me a long, black case she has been carrying on her back.

As soon as I receive it with both hands, I almost stumble because it is heavier

than I had imagined

"Oh... This is surprisingly heavy, isn't it? It must have been hard to bring this
here, right? Thank you so much." (Rintaro)

"Well, It's to support Yuusuke's love! But more importantly, you don't have to
return the bass." (Honoka)

"What?" (Rintaro)

When I look at Nogi's face in surprise, she looks away awkwardly.

"Well, you know. My mom was angry with me. She said it was taking up too
much space and getting in the way even though I don't use it. So when I told her
we'd lend it to a friend, she said to just give it to him as it is." (Honoka)

"What, but...... this is expensive, isn't it?" (Rintaro)

"Ahaha, actually, it is a cheap one, about 20,000 yen." (Honoka)

20,000 yen is high enough, but I don't know the market price of musical
instruments.

So, I guess it is relatively cheap. Maybe.

Either that, or she has no financial sense at all.

"If you do mind so much, buy me dinner sometime! From a slightly more
expensive restaurant!" (Honoka)

"What a shrewd and calculating.... Originally, I am not good at borrowing things

from other people, so I appreciate it." (Rintaro)

When I use something thinking that it is borrowed, I am distracted by worrying

about unnecessary things. I think about how not to make it dirty, how not to
damage it, and so on. All of these things are obvious, but the problem is that they
cause me to overthink.

Being overly worried is also a problem.

"I see! ......Well, good luck with that. I'm really rooting for you guys." (Honoka)

"......Yeah. We'll give it our all." (Rintaro)

"Hmm! Then that's even better! Well then, I've promised to hang out with Azurin
after this!" (Honoka)

"Thanks for coming all the way out here. It really helped me out." (Rintaro)

"No, it's not a problem! See you at school!" (Honoka)

"Yea, See you!" (Rintaro)

I wave Nogi off as she walks away.

She is definitely a nice girl.

She's so considerate, and it's no people around her like her so much.

――That's why.

She must have some idea that this incident might crack the friendship between
the four of them in the future.

If it ends up with the two of them becoming a couple, all is well. But if failed,
things won't be as they used to be in many cases.

"......I know how you feel." (Rintaro)

I spit those words into the void.

I also have something to ponder.

It's been a few days since that "confession" and she's been waiting for my
response.

I don't feel comfortable making her wait any longer.

It's time to tell her how I really feel.

◇◆◇◆

Clink-clunk, such sounds can be heard coming from the pot.

The kitchen is filled with the distinctive smell of curry, which naturally whets
one's appetite.

A blonde-haired girl is leaning against the couch in the living room.

It's Otosaki Rei, who is back here after a few days.

"......The curry, it'll be ready soon." (Rintaro)

"I've been waiting for it. It's been a long time since I've had Rintaro's cooking, so
I'm looking forward to it." (Rei)

"It's been a long time, huh, but it's actually been a week or so, right." (Rintaro)

"Not seeing Rintaro for a week was too lonely." (Rei)

"......I see." (Rintaro)

"How about Rintaro?" (Rei)

"Well...... just a little bit." (Rintaro)

"Just a little, eh. But I'm glad." (Rei)

Phew, that's so cute, god d*mn it.

After that time together at the beach, she has become more and more attractive.

Maybe it's just me feeling that way because I don't hear people around me saying
such things. This makes me feel a little embarrassed when I think so――――.

"For now, I'm going to live up to your expectations and get dinner ready quickly.
There, help me clean up the desk. I'll bring them there now." (Rintaro)

"Hmm, got it." (Rei)

I open the lid of the pot and stir the curry several times.

Today's curry is a summer vegetable curry with plenty of summer vegetables.

Some people may not like eggplant or green peppers in it, but it doesn't matter to
me and Rei, who are not picky eaters.

"Here, it's ready!" (Rintaro)

"Whoaa...... it's full of vegetables." (Rei)

"This is a summer vegetable curry. Here, take a spoon." (Rintaro)

"Mmm, Bon appétit!" (Rei)

I hand her a spoon, and Rei scoops up the white rice and roux together and
brings it to her mouth.

After a few chews, her face lit up.

"Yummyyyy!" (Rei)

"Glad to hear." (Rintaro)

I sit down next to her and put the curry in my mouth in the same way.

Yup――――this is delicious.

The vegetables, which are cut a little bigger than usual, are well mixed with the
roux, which gives it a different taste than the meat.

Even if you don't have much of an appetite due to the summer heat, you can eat
as much as you want because it's not as filling as meat.

"I'm really glad you like curry. Because I can make it in bulk." (Rintaro)

"Yes, I love curry. But I like Rintaro's curry the best. He always comes up with
something new, and that makes me happy." (Rei)

"You always say that my cooking makes you happy each and every time. If you
say that to me, it's worth all the thought and effort I put into making it every
time." (Rintaro)

Even if it is just an ordinary curry, Rei will eat it without a single complaint.

However, that would be somewhat――――boring.

Since this dish has infinite possibilities, I want to experiment with various
things.

To put it in a very extreme way, it may be no exaggeration to say that I am

conducting a culinary experiment using myself and Rei as guinea pigs.

Of course, the premise is that I don't cook a bad meal.

◇◆◇◆
"Speaking of which, Rintaro, what's that?" (Rei)

"Hmm?" (Rintaro)

As I'm relaxing on the couch after dinner and washing up, Rei suddenly points to
the bass case propped up on the wall and asks me a question.

Well, no wonder she'll be curious about it. It wasn't there until yesterday.

"There's been a little thing going on. And it turns out that I'm going to perform
on the stage at the closing party after the school festival." (Rintaro)

"Eh, Rintaro, you are going to?" (Rei)

"Is it that surprising?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. Very much." (Rei)

"Well yeah, I think so too." (Rintaro)

I am sure Yukio will be surprised to hear that I will be performing in front of

such a large audience.

I take out the bass from the case and sit down on the couch again while holding
it.

Fortunately, it seems that Nogi didn't have the habit of decorating everything
with pretty things, and this bass itself was monotonously colored black and
white.

That way, even if I carry it with me, it won't look blatantly like a borrowed one.

"What kind of wind brought that on?" (Rei)

"Ostensibly, it's to help other people. But underneath it all, I just wanted to start
playing a musical instrument." (Rintaro)

"I didn't know Rintaro was interested in musical instruments." (Rei)

"......Because it's cool." (Rintaro)

"Eh?" (Rei)

I feel embarrassed and avert my eyes from Rei.

My employer, Yuzuki-sensei, told me to lead a life of understanding toward

various kinds of entertainment, and among them, I tend to enjoy music, which is
ideal to accompany me while I work.

I am not yet an adult, but my simple mind easily yearns for music when I listen
to it regularly.

As for singing, I don't think I ever wanted to try it, but I have always wanted to
try playing guitar, drums, or bass guitar, even if only once in my life.

I didn't have any notable hobbies to begin with, so I had a faint hope that it
would become a hobby if I got into it.

"I'm just an average high school boy, so I think it would be fun to play a musical
instrument and I honestly think it would be cool too. That's the kind of reason."
(Rintaro)

"......It was simpler than I thought." (Rei)

"Ugh...... Sorry to disappoint. I didn't have a good reason." (Rintaro)

"No. I'm rather relieved to see that side of you. So I want to support you." (Rei)

As Rei leans toward me, she smiles as if she were looking at something pleasing.

Since I've been spending time with Rei, I've been gradually becoming more
honest with myself――――no, I feel like I'm being forced to be honest.

It seems that her straightforwardness in conveying her feelings has influenced

me as well.

I thought it would just be horrible to be influenced by others and have myself

change, but I didn't find this to be as bad as I thought it would be.

"Well, when it comes to actually playing an instrument, this doesn't go so well."

(Rintaro)
I fiddle with the screws called "pegs" that line up at the tip of the bass called
"head" with my fingers.

This is called tuning.

If guitars and basses are left alone, they will gradually deviate from their original
sound. I don't know the details of the cause, but it is said that there are various
causes, such as strings stretching or shrinking due to humidity or temperature.

Before playing, it is necessary to adjust the strings in this way so that they sound
as they should. This is a bit of a hassle, though.

Fortunately, there is an item called a tuner that assists in tuning.

If you put this tuner on the head and find that the sound is not out of tune, the
tuning process is complete.

While holding down the strings on the neck, I plucked the strings with my other
hand.

A piece of the prelude to the song we are going to perform echoes in the room.

After receiving the bass from Nogi, I practiced this part over and over again.
Although I didn't have much time, I managed to play it slowly and steadily.

"......" (Rei)

"What do you think? Even if it's just the bass, one can at least vaguely tell what
song I'm playing――――What's wrong?" (Rintaro)

"Ah...... no, I was just looking." (Rei)

"Hmm......?" (Rintaro)

I follow Rei's gaze and it leads me to my hand.

Is there something wrong with my hand?

"Rintaro, you belong to plucking style, don't you?" (Rei)

"What? A-ah...... all the artists I like are playing with plucking style, because it
feels more comfortable than using a pick." (Rintaro)

There are two main factions of bass players, which leads to the difference
between using a pick and not using a pick.

Well, it seems that most people are plucking style, but I couldn't understand the
difference in the details regarding this as well.

I may eventually be able to understand the difference in detail, but I wonder

when that will be――――.

"Rintaro, let me see your hand." (Rei)

"Well, okay." (Rintaro)

I take my hand off the bass and show it to Rei.

She scoops my hand from under and begins to lay her other hand on top of mine,
stroking my fingers one by one, and tracing the palm of my hand. (PTW/N: How
l*wd.)

That is so ticklish.

Her face is somewhat serious as she strokes my hand, and even though I am
getting embarrassed, I feel a little uncomfortable withdrawing my hand from her.

"Umm ...... Rei-san?" (Rintaro)

"......." (Rei)

"...... Hello~." (Rintaro)

"————Yesh." (Rei)

Before I knew it, Rei's entranced eyes had returned to consciousness.

She looks at my hand and then at my face, and somewhat embarrassed, she
removes her hand.

"......Sorry." (Rei)

"This is just my guess, but do you have a hand fetish......?" (Rintaro)

"I thought I didn't, but maybe I do." (Rei)

"A pattern you were unaware of, huh. So, are my hands into your type?"
(Rintaro)

"Yes. I have never looked at them closely before, but I think Rintaro's hands are
very my type. It's bigger than I thought, and his fingers are long and slender. The
veins that stick out just a little bit are somewhat...... naughty." (Rei)

"Let's not go any further! Okay!?" (Rintaro)

That's close, I nearly let myself be carried away by this strange atmosphere.

Both of us become awkward for some reason and our eyes start to swim.

I can no longer stand this atmosphere, so I turn on the TV.

"Ah...... this is." (Rintaro)

What appears on the TV is a music program that airs every week at this hour.

The set is a set where the guests sit between the host and the regulars, but I
recognize the girls sitting there.

Or rather, they're living next door to me.

"This is the one taken the other day. I think they did it to coincide with the
release of our photo book." (Rei)

"Heh........" (Rintaro)

As we are both watching the program, the regular performance by the guests
begins.

Every time in this segment, the guest performs a new song, which seems to play
a role in the promotion.

MilleSta also performs a new song without exception and makes the program
greatly lively.

[The new song that we just performed will be released on the same day as our
photo book.] (Rei)

[We are literally putting our skin* into it, so if you are interested, please don't
hesitate to purchase.] (Mia)

[The CD also has a handshake ticket that can be used at the handshake session
with us!] (Kanon)

The program ends with the advertisement by the girls.

But a handshake session, huh. Hearing these words, I am made to remember that
these girls are indeed idols.

"I mean, the photo book has already been released, hasn't it?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. Ah――――Reminds me, I've been thinking about giving one to Rintaro."
(Rei)

Saying this, Rei takes out a magazine from her baggage that has herself and the
girls highlighted on the cover, and hands it to me.

"Here it is." (Rei)

"......Even if I were to accept it, it's kind of complicated to think that it's a photo
album of the girl in front of me." (Rintaro)
"Is it?" (Rei)

The reason is that all of them are dressed in very revealing swimsuits.

Even if I am accustomed to being with Rei in this way, it is still very poisonous
to the eyes of adolescents.

By the way, I don't think it matters, but I don't have any er*tic books. I buy
everything in digital file form.

"Well...... if you say you'll give it to me, I'll accept it gratefully." (Rintaro)

"Mmm. It's good that you are being honest." (Rei)

"It sounds like you have ulterior motives, so please stop it." (Rintaro)

I took the photo book and put it on the table for the time being.

At the same time, the smartphone Rei is holding starts vibrating.

"Ah, my manager is calling. I'll be out in a minute." (Rei)

"Okay." (Rintaro)

Saying that, she walks out into the hallway.

I am relieved to see that she is sensible enough to make sure I, an outsider, can't
hear the conversation.

I pick up the photo book, which I placed on the table, and move toward my
bedroom.

Then, I take out the "other photo book" hidden under the pillow.

"There's no way...... I can tell her that I already bought one myself, can't I?"
(Rintaro) (PTW/N: Bro should buy at least 3, one to use, one as a spare, and
last one as a spare's spare.)

I put the photo book I just got on a bookshelf lined with manga and put the
"other photo book" back under the pillow.
Please don't let her find out about this by all means.

*PTW/N:

一肌脱ぐ (Hitohadanugu): to pitch in and help; giving someone a helping

hand.

肌脱ぐ (Hadanugu): [1] to remove one's shirt thus revealing the skin; to
remove the upper part of one's garments, [2] to work with great effort.
 ◇◆◇◆

"Sorry, I kept you waiting." (Rei)

By the time Rei returns, I'm standing in the kitchen.

I welcome her casually and put down a cup of coffee I had brewed well in
advance.

She sips from her mug and exhales.

"My manager told me the next gig was set." (Rei)

"Oh, really?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. The next show is for Halloween. After that, we might go on tour toward
the end of the year." (Rei)

"When you say tour, do you mean the one that goes all over the country?"
(Rintaro)

"Yes." (Rei)

If so, Rei and the others won't be back for a while.

"Once the tour starts, you girls will be absent from school, then?" (Rintaro)

"Probably so. We don't know exactly how the tour will go, since it will be our
first tour." (Rei)

This may appear presumptuous, but when it comes to touring, she will probably
not be able to move freely for at least two weeks, right?

I am concerned about the number of days she will be absent, but thanks to Rei's
efforts, she will probably be able to stay within the acceptable range of absences.

If this is the reason why she has been going through such a hard time, I have
nothing but respect for her from the bottom of my heart.

"You are one step closer to your dream, right." (Rintaro)

"......Yes. Maybe we're almost there." (Rei)

Rei clenches her fists with a somewhat expectant look on her face.

Her dream is, to perform live at the Nippon Budokan.

For those who have become national idols, it is not a distant goal.

But that does not mean it is an easy goal.

――――If, she were to fulfill that dream.

What will Rei do after that?

"?? What's wrong?" (Rei)

"......No, it's nothing." (Rintaro)

I shake my head at her words and check my watch.

Before I knew it, it was already quite late.

"You should go back to your room. You have an early day tomorrow, right?"
(Rintaro)

"Ugh... You're right. Can you wake me up at six tomorrow?" (Rei)

"Okay. I've already scheduled it." (Rintaro)

"Thanks for everything. I'm already very anxious without Rintaro. If it's
possible, I'd like to take you on tour with me." (Rei)

"That's impossible. I don't want to miss school." (Rintaro)

"......I know. I won't ask you for unreasonable things." (Rei)

But you tried to resist for a moment.

Rei will be away from home again for a while starting tomorrow.

It seems that each member of Millefeuille Stars is working on a single song, and
Rei will be the first one to start working on it.

She is going to be even busier than before, as she will also be shooting music
videos.

"I'm sure things will settle down a bit more in September......." (Rei)

"Then I guess you'll just have to persevere until then. If there is anything I can
do, I will help you as much as I can." (Rintaro)

"Yes, thank you. ――――And, I haven't forgotten my right to order you to do

anything I say." (Rei)

――――Tsk.

"I wish you could just forget it." (Rintaro)

"Don't worry, I'll use this right when it matters most." (Rei)

"...... Be easy on me." (Rintaro)

The punishment for losing at beach volleyball.

I have heard Mia's wish, but Rei and Kanon have yet to tell me what they wished
for.

I'm thankful as well as anxious about that.

"Bye, Rintaro, good night." (Rei)

"Yeah...... good night." (Rintaro)

Rei left my room, throwing one last unexpected pickoff.

In the room left alone, I let out a sigh once.

From tomorrow, Rei will be gone.

This makes me feel a little lonely again, but there is something more important
to think about.
"A week starting from tomorrow, huh ......" (Rintaro)

A by-promise I made during the beach volleyball game.

The promise to cook dinner for Mia for a week starts tomorrow.

The reason why it starts tomorrow is because Mia will be coming home by the
time Rei leaves.

I have to see her tomorrow whether I want to or not.

I will naturally have to give her an answer to her confession――――.

"...... Sigh." (Rintaro)

Anyway, let's just go to bed now.

Because the answer to it has already been decided.

◇◆◇◆

The next day arrived with more or less melancholy in my heart.

I cleaned my own room and did laundry. Following that, I finished cleaning Rei's
room, and then relaxed on the couch in my own room.

There was a time when I thought that cleaning is not something I should do that
often, but it was surprisingly uplifting to be able to keep the place clean.

I myself often clean as a casual way to pass the time.

"...... it's about time." (Rintaro)

I mumble so and casually look at my smartphone.

Then I see a message from Mia displayed in the notification.

I grab a set of my cooking utensils and leave the room.

It takes me ten seconds to walk down the hallway.

I stand in front of the door to the room farthest from mine.

I press the intercom, and a few moments later.

[――――Please come in.] (Mia)

Mia's voice comes over the speaker and I open the door.

"E-excuse me......" (Rintaro)

Something about the thought of stepping into a girl's room of my grade suddenly
made me nervous.

Even Rei's room is still a girl's room――――but, maybe because I've been in
there so much for cleaning, and so on, I no longer feel any kind of nervousness.

I wonder if that is a good thing or a bad thing...... But, well, it doesn't matter
either way.

"Yo! I'm glad you're here." (Mia)

"...... I've promised after all." (Rintaro)

I scratch my cheek in front of Mia.

She is dressed in loungewear that I have seen at the cottage, but it is still
somewhat fresh.

Even though it is just loungewear, it doesn't have a dowdy atmosphere at all,

which I can only say is due to the quality of the material.

"Eh, I think I've shown you this loungewear before." (Mia)

"Don't be silly. I don't have a soft heart to be discomposed by the unusual

appearance of the opposite sex." (Rintaro)

"Hmmm. You seem a bit nervous though." (Mia)

Shut up!

"Well, never mind. Let's talk anyway. You're going to give me――――your
answer, right?" (Mia)

"...... Yeah." (Rintaro)

I step into the room as Mia leads me.

The room is decorated with a lot of blues, which is the color of her image, and
has a cool atmosphere.

This layout itself may be quite to my liking.

"Come on, sit down." (Mia)

She urges me to sit down on the couch.

Then she takes out a bottle of water from the refrigerator and hands it to me.

"Thanks." (Rintaro)

"Sorry. I want to brew you coffee as you did, but unfortunately, I don't have such
a thing." (Mia)

"Don't worry about it. I'm not the kind of man who would complain about the
hospitality of others." (Rintaro)

I bought the coffeemaker because I wanted it.

"......Well, then" (Rintaro)

I take a sip of the water I have been given and look up.

I don't want to waste time. This is because the longer it takes, the harder it will
be for me to say it.

"I'll let you know the conclusion I've reached." (Rintaro)

"...... Mmm." (Mia)

I pause for a beat and then say the words.

"I, can't go out with you." (Rintaro)

Her expression doesn't change even after hearing these words.

It is as if she has predicted that I would say that.

"Well, I suppose. But, can I ask you why, just in case?" (Mia)

"......The only person I want to be my lover is someone I'm convinced I can love
for the rest of my life. So I don't want to make a decision on the spur of the
moment at this bratty age." (Rintaro)

I think I have said something similar to that to Mia before.

Besides――――having that kind of relationship with me means that she will

inevitably have to work instead of me for the rest of her life.

I know that sounds bad, but that's the path that I'm pursuing, so I can't help it.

So, I think I have to be even more careful in my search for a partner considering
that she will bear such a responsibility.

I don't want to be abandoned again.

"......, are you all right?" (Mia)

"Uh, yeah. I am." (Rintaro)

I've caused her unnecessary worry because of the darkened expression on my

face.

Now is not the time to make her worry about me.

I have to tell her why――――.

"――――And besides. It's not like you actually are in love with me, right?"
(Rintaro)

Mia's expression finally changed here.

◇◆◇◆

"It's not that I don't get the feeling you like me. It's just that I don't think it's the
only reason." (Rintaro)

It's hard to put into words, but it felt like "there's a reason why she had to do it".

"If you don't want to tell me the reason, I won't ask you. But I don't feel
comfortable...... being used for something without being told." (Rintaro)

"......Yeah, you're right. I'm ...... sorry about that." (Mia)

Mia then apologizes honestly.

I accept it and wait for her next words.

"Last time, I told you that my dream is to have a career abroad, right?" (Mia)

"You did." (Rintaro)

"Just recently, I feel like I'm starting to get a foothold in that dream." (Mia)

Mia takes a sip and continues.

"A well-known director with international connections is holding auditions for

his new film. If I pass the audition, then――――" (Mia)

"You'll have a foothold to go international, right? That sounds like a great

opportunity." (Rintaro)

"Yes, but...... the problem is that the film I'm auditioning for is a romance one."
(Mia)

Aah......, hmm?

"What's the problem with that? Isn't any work as difficult as any other?"
(Rintaro)

"Yes, that is. But I ...... have never felt what is called love in my entire life."
(Mia)

She narrows her eyes somewhat sadly.

"How can I put this....... perhaps it's because I've lived my whole life trying to be
like my mom, I haven't really been able to see much of the people around me.
This is so embarrassing to say but I still can't even remember the names of my
classmates." (Mia)

"That's...... You have a job to do, so you can't help it, can you?" (Rintaro)

"I don't like to use that as an excuse. Maybe some people will be offended by it.
Well, anyway. I don't know much about love. So when I got the script for the
audition, I didn't know how to act." (Mia)

I feel somehow embarrassed to be listening to it.

Romance, it is indeed difficult――――I suppose.

I intended to listen calmly, but if you ask me if I myself am familiar with

romance, I'll answer no.

"So, you know. If I don't know, then I thought, why don't I just try having a
boyfriend?" (Mia)

"...... Then, it didn't have to be me, did it?" (Rintaro)

"No, let me be clear about this. I confessed to you because it's you. You are the
one I trust the most." (Mia)

I make eye contact with Mia.

Looking into her eyes, there is no hint that she is lying or deceiving.

I think I can trust her on this part.

"Rintaro-kun. I know I'm being brazen, but allow me to ask you this." (Mia)

"...... What is it?" (Rintaro)

"Can you pretend to be my boyfriend?" (Mia)

I tilt my head, not understanding the intent of that question.

"I want you to help me experience what something lover-like is, even if it is only
for the time Rei is not coming back. Of course, you don't have to do the things
you don't want to." (Mia)

She can't ask anyone else for that――――.

I put on a stern expression in front of Mia, who tell me this with a serious
expression on her face.

It's not that I'm offended by this request by any means.

I just don't know what to do.

(But......)

Mia's in serious trouble.

It's so much so that she's become terribly distraught.

"――――I have a condition." (Rintaro)

"What?" (Mia)

"The promise to cook for you for a week. I'll cooperate with you if you can
pretend this promise never happened." (Rintaro)

"Is that the only what you want?" (Mia)

"It's not that easy to cook every day, do you know it? Well, cooking may be one
of the things lovers do, and I'm not saying I'll never cook for you." (Rintaro)

If you pile on two or three promises, you will inevitably feel it as a burden in an
unpleasant way.

The reason for requesting a reset here is for a kind of self-preservation.

"......Okay, I get it. I'm fine with that. If it gets you some cooperation." (Mia)

"Then we have a deal." (Rintaro)

We shake hands as a sign of agreement.

However.
"Seriously, I wonder what it is about...... something lover-like?" (Rintaro)

"......I wonder what." (Mia)

"You gave Rei some weird advice in the first place, didn't you? Perhaps you're
lying about not knowing anything about relationships." (Rintaro)

"I can understand why you are suspicious of me, but that's all stuff I got from
fiction. And I know it's different from real life." (Mia)

――――Well, I thought it was a strange knowledge.

"For now, why don't we go out together tomorrow?" (Mia)

"......Aah, you mean going on a date?" (Rintaro)

"I'm a little embarrassed when you put it that way, but yes, I mean it. Right now,
a popular romantic movie is just in cinemas, so I thought we could go watch it
and learn a little something." (Mia)

"Heh...... a romanic movie, huh?" (Rintaro)

Thinking back, when was the last time I went to the cinema?

I think the last time was a few years ago when I accompanied Yukio to a B-
movie he wanted to see.

Uh, now I'm getting a little excited before the date.

"Okay. I'll go out with you." (Rintaro)

"Thank you. So tomorrow, can we meet up in front of the station?" (Mia)

"Are we going to start with a rendezvous......" (Rintaro)

"Naturally. The thrill of coming to our rendezvous. We have to start with that."
(Mia)

I've already had enough of waiting under the scorching sun.

――――No, I should probably head to the station very early here.

I'll head there about an hour early, go into a coffee shop, and wait while cooling
off.

If I have that much time, the sweat must have gone away, and I won't have to
walk next to her sweating.

"How about tomorrow at ten o'clock in front of the station?" (Mia)

"That sounds good, doesn't it? We can have lunch by the time the movie is over."
(Rintaro)

"I agree. Then......." (Mia)

At that moment, I hear the sound of a stomach growling loudly.

My gaze is naturally drawn to Mia's stomach.

She instantly blushes and turns her face away to hide her embarrassment.

"S-sorry...... I was planning to have the dinner you made today, so I didn't
prepare anything else to eat......." (Mia)

After saying so herself, Mia suddenly starts to panic.

"A-ah! But, since you agreed to pretend to be my boyfriend, you don't have to
worry about your promise to cook for me. I'll order a delivery service later."
(Mia)

"...... Haha, don't worry about it." (Rintaro)

I get up and take out an apron from my luggage.

I have gone to the trouble of preparing the utensils. So it will be a waste to go

home without using them.

"I told you, it's not like I won't do it. I'll serve it in no time, so just wait there."
(Rintaro)

"Y-yes......" (Mia)

Leaving Mia stunned, I head for the kitchen.

Fortunately, the kitchen has the same shape, so it's easy to get used to.

When it comes to dishes that can be made quickly and easily――――yup, pasta
is the way to go.

"......I mean, if you had asked me to play the role of your boyfriend from the
beginning, I wouldn't have gone through all this trouble. I've given it some
serious thought, you know?" (Rintaro)

"Er, well...... It appears that I'm not that good of a person either. When I see
"something that people want", I end up wanting it for no reason at all." (Mia)

I don't know what the h*ll she's talking about.

I dismiss it as a random joke and start to prepare the dinner.

 Chapter 2: Opportunity

And, the next day.

I got up as usual, washed my face, brushed my teeth, and is examining at my

clothes.

As was the case with Rei, this is the most difficult part when going out with the
opposite sex.

I don't have a lot of clothes, to begin with, and I'm not confident that I have a
good style.

Some of them were forced on me by Yuzuki-sensei――――.

"......After all, safe is best, right?" (Rintaro)

I let out a sigh and put on a loose-fitting 3/4 sleeve T-shirt and a pair of skinny
jeans.

No. This is too one pattern.

As I thought, I should have more of a repertoire, right? When Yukio returns, I'll
ask him to go shopping with me. I promised him to go shopping for a mug
anyway.

I leave my house with my shoulder bag containing my wallet and other things on
my back.

I head for the train station.

It is one hour before the appointment, and I plan to kill some time at a coffee
shop, as I had originally planned.

As soon as I step outside, the heat of the sun pours down on me from above and
the reflected heat rises up from the asphalt, burning my body.

It's seriously hot. Summer break will be over soon, but the summer is still far
from over.

(I'll definitely have an iced coffee when I get there.......!)

With that in mind, I stomp my way to the front of the station.

Soon I get near the meeting place and find a surprising sight.

"What...... Mia?" (Rintaro)

A girl with a familiar face is standing in front of the statue we agreed upon as
our meeting place.

She is disguised in a long black wig, just like Rei done.

She has been constantly pulling out a hand mirror and checking her face over
and over since a while ago.

With a surprised look on my face, I approach her.

"Hey, why are you here so early?" (Rintaro)

"Eh――――Rintaro-kun!?" (Mia)

She looks up and looks at me with a surprised look on her face.

"B-back at you...... There's still an hour to go, remember?" (Mia)

"I was planning to cool off at the coffee shop and then come here." (Rintaro)

"S-so...... that's it. Ah, I was also planning to do the same." (Mia)

Then why are you here――――I swallow that question.

Somewhat impatiently, she fiddles with her wig, and her gaze is wandering
restlessly.

Don't tell me this lass was looking forward to this so much?

If that's the case, I find that Mia has a cute side too...... unlike her usual self.

"......Then, let's go to the coffee shop. We still have time before the show
anyway." (Rintaro)

"Y-yes...... You're right." (Mia)

The two of us then make our way side by side to the coffee shop in front of the
station.

"By the way, you are very good at disguising yourself." (Rintaro)

"I can't walk out of the house properly unless I do this. How? Does this suit
me?" (Mia)

"Yeah, your MIA-ness is fading, but your beauty hasn't diminished at all."
(Rintaro)

"......Rintaro-kun, are you used to giving compliments?" (Mia)

"Not really. I just simply say what is in my mind, so it's not a hard thing."
(Rintaro)

In the first place, she asked me for my opinion about her appearance, so I think it
would be wrong if I don't answer her honestly.

"Hey, Rintaro-kun." (Mia)

"What?" (Rintaro)

"For a lover, I think holding hands is a kind of skinship, so what do you think?"
(Mia)

"Sorry, but I can't do that." (Rintaro)

"......Why can't." (Mia)

Seeing Mia with a somewhat sullen look on her face, I let out a sigh and then
speak.

"Haven't you told me? I don't have to do anything I don't want to. Holding hands
or displaying such a definite appearance of being a lover to those around is not a
thing I want to do."

Holding hands, linking arms, and so on.

Such behaviors can leave Mia with no excuse if her disguise were to come
undone.

Also, my hands are sweating a lot because of the summer sun.

To hold hands with her in such a state is certainly embarrassing.

"......Humph. Well, fine then." (Mia)

Mia puffs out her cheeks and walks half a step ahead of me.

What is it? Somehow, today's her seems to be a bit childish.

"Come on, hurry up." (Mia)

"K-kay." (Rintaro)

Is it just, my imagination?

◇◆◇◆

After killing some time at the coffee shop, we head straight to the cinema.

The ticket we bought together is titled "Harusaku Koi".

It is a story about a boring high school girl who is approached by a rich, good-
looking guy and a nice, athletic guy.

The love triangle of her with two boys is said to be the appeal of the
story――――.

"......Anyhow, aren't there so many girls here?" (Rintaro)

Most of the people who have been going in and out of the cinema since a while
ago are all girls who look somewhat sophisticated.
It's not that there aren't any boys or adults, but I feel a little uncomfortable.

"That's natural. The actors are very popular among the girls right now. Here, this
is your ticket." (Mia)

"Ah, thanks......" (Rintaro)

I take the ticket offered by Mia and stare at it for a few seconds.

"...... It's a bit late, but were you sure for paying for all." (Rintaro)

"It's really late for that. But, as I said before, I'll pay for the whole date. I think
it's my duty as the person who gets you to spend the day with me." (Mia)

"No, But I don't think it's right if it's not the man who pays for the whole date."
(Rintaro)

"It doesn't matter if you're a man or a woman. All you need to do today is to
indulge me." (Mia)

Hmm, well, that's okay.

As long as you treat me, I shall treat you back in all honesty. It saves money.

The pride I had kept in my heart is easily shattered.

"Do you like to eat popcorn? I'm thinking of buying some." (Mia)

"Ah, well, I guess I am......?" (Rintaro)

I'm thinking of buying some," he said. "Then, let's share a large size, shall we?
Fufu, I feel like we're becoming more and more like one." (Mia)

That "like" probably refers to being more like a lover.

When you think about it, sharing a snack together is very much like being a
lover.

――――I think Rei and I have done it a few times already.

"What flavor do you like?" (Mia)

"I like the soy sauce butter one." (Rintaro)

"What a coincidence. I'm just about to choose that flavor too." (Mia)

Caramel and salt are also good, but personally, I get bored easily with caramel,
and salt is slightly bland.

Then again, soy sauce butter would be the perfect one for me.

"Then, let's go inside after we buy it, shall we?" (Mia)

"Sure." (Rintaro)

It's almost time to go in.

After buying popcorn and drinks, we enter the theater.

The seats filled up quickly, and soon enough, it was full.

Is this the power of the latest popular movie?

"There's a unique sense of excitement in a theater before it even starts, isn't

there?" (Mia)

"I can understand that. I've never had much sympathy for it, but I actually don't
mind watching trailers for other movies that are inserted at the beginning of a
movie." (Rintaro)

"Me too, I can understand that feeling. I feel like I'm getting something out of it
when I see a trailer for a movie I've seen before, or a trailer for a movie I'm
really interested in." (Mia)

While we are chatting like this, the lights dim out in the hall.

In the darkness, the movie trailers that we have just been talking about are
starting to play on the huge screen.

This is when I feel that I have come to a cinema the most.

The size of the screen, the impact of the sound. Everything feels special.
[This is a story that happened in the dull spring of my life――――]

After the trailer ends, the film begins with such a monologue.

The heroine is a boring high school girl who gives off the impression of being a
bit of a dowdy girl.

However, because she is played by a popular young actress, she has a well-
defined face behind the round glasses she wears.

Apparently, this is not for the convenience of the actress, but because the manga
on which the story is based describes her as something like――――a simple
jewel that shines when polished.

I can't help but wonder what a "simple jewel" is, but if I were to nitpick at every
little thing like this, I will never be able to enjoy a work, so I'll just put it to the
back of my mind.

◇◆◇◆

[Who are you going to choose, him or me!] (Rich Guy)

[I-I can't! I can't decide on the spur of the moment!] (Heroine)

[Enough! Go anywhere you want!] (Rich Guy)

The rich, self-centered, handsome guy left the scene after saying that.

As the heroine, who was left behind, was shedding tears, the athletic guy came
up to her as if he had anticipated this.

He hugged her and whispered in her ear.

[If I were him, I wouldn't make you cry.] (Solid Guy)

Yup, that grosses me out.

His voice and line seem to have touched the female audience, and most of them
are looking at the screen with enraptured faces.

What face does Mia have?

Curious, I look at the seat next to me with only a glance.

"......Heeh." (Rintaro)

She has an interested look on her face.

It is the kind of look that says she is seriously trying to learn something, leaving
aside things like excitement and such.

She is probably examining the face of the heroine, the one who was whispered
to.

Once the scene ended here, it was time for the heroine to think alone.

Still wavering between the two guys, she eventually came to one conclusion.

[I...... I finally get it.] (Heroine)

And so the heroine ran out to find the athletic guy.

But she apologized to him and told him she couldn't reciprocate his feelings, and
then she ran straight to the handsome guy.

[I! I love you!] (Heroine)

[I'll never let you go!] (Rich Guy)

After such an exchange, the two eventually tied the knot.

Yep yep, I don't understand at all. (PTW/N: Me too dude)

Maybe it's because I'm thinking too realistically, but I think that the athletic guy
would be better as a lover.

Being rich is a good point, but it is difficult to be in a relationship with that kind
of personality.

I won't bother to say it out loud because it's just me being me, but it's true that
I'm a little unconvinced by her conclusion.

"Hmm......I see. So that is how it works. Shall we go then, Rintaro-kun?" (Mia)

"Okay. Are you satisfied?" (Rintaro)

"Well, in its own way, I guess. To be honest, if you ask me if I learned anything
different from what I originally knew, I will answer with a tilt of my head."
(Mia)

As we get up from our seats and leave the theater, we exchange our opinions
about the movie with each other.

Mia seems to have thought that if she were to have a boyfriend in the real world,
she would have to choose the athletic guy.

She said, "If it were me, that rich guy is going to hate me because I tease him too
much."

I can somehow imagine that scene.

"Now, what shall we do?" (Mia)

"Ah...... lunchtime is a little off, but we can get some meals for now, right? I'm
sure there's a place open right now." (Rintaro)

"I guess so. Ah, I've got something I'd like to try, if you don't mind." (Mia)

"Heeh, what's it?" (Rintaro)

"I've memorized the way, so just follow me. It will be fun when you get there."
(Mia)

I nod my head and follow after her.

This is Mia we're talking about. I'm sure she's going to lead me to some fancy
cafes or restaurants.

Normally, I would be concerned about the high cost of such places, but today is
her treat, so my steps don't feel that heavy at all.

――――This is pretty lame, even from my standpoint.

"Here we are. I've always wanted to come here." (Mia)

And so we arrive at the place, and what wafts out is————the thick aroma of
garlic.

"Isn't this a ramen shop?" (Rintaro)

"It is. Where did you expect to be led?" (Mia)

The signboard in front of us said "more vegetables" and "more garlic", words
that made me sick to my stomach just by looking at them.

I don't dislike the shop itself.

I just didn't expect to be brought here by a girl.

"Up until recently, I've had a lot of work that required me to stay in style, and
I've been trying to avoid anything too high in calories. Once that kind of routine
settled down, today was my chance to finally try this." (Mia)

"I-is so......" (Rintaro)

"Let's enter then." (Mia)

Mia's back looks somewhat like a brave warrior as she makes her entrance with
dignity.

Come to think of it, Rei walked into the ramen shop with great enthusiasm, too.

――――It can't be helped, then.

I am a little overwhelmed, but it is not my first visit to such a store, and I

appreciate being in a store like this rather than a fancy store.

Following Mia's lead, I step into the store and see her standing in front of the
ticket machine, which is typical of ramen shops, groaning in frustration.

"Rintaro-kun, what should I do? Which one should I order?" (Mia)

"......If it's your first time here, why don't you just order the regular one? The
waiter will probably ask you a few questions later on, but in response to those
questions, you can just say that everything is regular." (Rintaro)
"Hmm? I don't understand, but okay." (Mia)

Mia purchases the topmost normal ramen and turns back to me.

"Rintaro-kun, which one do you want?" (Mia)

"I'll have the regular one too. I'm not too particular about the ingredients."
(Rintaro)

"I see. I'll get one more then." (Mia)

"Sorry, and thanks......" (Rintaro)

"You don't have to worry about anything today." (Mia)

Mia purchases a ticket for me as well.

We sit down side by side and hand our tickets to the waiter over the counter.

"Two bowls of ramen! What's your preference?"

"Eh? Ah, just...... regular one, is it okay?" (Mia)

I nod in response to Mia's question.

When we confirm it to the waiter, he nods and then recites our order.

A few minutes later, two bowls full of bean sprouts and cabbage are placed in
front of us.

"Whoa...... The serving is bigger than I thought it would be." (Mia)

"Can you finish it?" (Rintaro)

"Yes, I think I can." (Mia)

"Then, please take care of my leftovers." (Rintaro)

"Yea......, I see." (Mia)

Well, I think I can finish it, but I can't give up the possibility that I might get sick
on the way if it has a lot of oil in it.

Yeah――――I'd like to think I'll be fine, though.

"Well, for now, let's eat it before it becomes soggy. Bon appétit." (Rintaro)

"......Bon appétit." (Mia)

We each put our palms together, pick up our chopsticks, and begin to eat.

I mean, before we start slurping, we first have to do some excavation work.

We break down the pile of bean sprouts and cabbage so as not to spill it, and at
the end of it, we finally get our chopsticks to reach the noodles.

At this point, I feel like a coal miner.

"Mmm~~~! So good!" (Mia)

As I'm struggling to dig out the noodles, I hear a delighted voice from my side.

I look over and see Mia's face there, holding her cheeks and looking happy.

"Ah...... Sorry, was that a bit inappropriate?" (Mia)

"No, I just thought it was a little unexpected." (Rintaro)

"Unexpected?" (Mia)

"If anything, I have a cool image in you, so it was a little unexpected that you
could change your expression so drastically." (Rintaro)

"Fufu, did you find it unfitting?" (Mia)

"I didn't find that way. Rather...... I was happy because I felt like I was getting to
know you a little bit better." (Rintaro)

"Eh......" (Mia)

When we first met, I was much more wary of Mia.

That's because, at that time, this lass was so mysterious.

I think it was because she made an effort not to show her true self, and looking
back, it was more dangerous to blindly trust a man she had never met before just
because Rei had brought him along.

Although a long time has passed since then, Mia seems to have kept her "MIA"
as an idol more than Rei did.

I know this is just a stereotyped image, but if I were in Mia's shoes, I would not
be able to stand being an idol all the time.

Even Rei has time off, but Mia has none.

The fact that I was able to see even the slightest glimpse of her true face, which
should have been hidden behind such a built-up strong mask.

Even if it was just even a minuscule, it made me happy.

◇◆◇◆

"I've been amazed so many times at how superhuman you girls are...... what's
wrong?" (Rintaro)

"――――Eh? Ah, yes! I see!" (Mia)

"......What's wrong with you all of a sudden" (Rintaro)

I look at Mia with quizzical eyes as she quivers and her face turns beet red.

Then she immediately turns her face away to avoid my gaze.

"Hey, don't tell me you're embarrassed?" (Rintaro)

"E-err? I-I wonder...... I can't get to your question." (Mia)

As if to cool down her flushed face, Mia gulps down water from a nearby glass.

But one problem is――――.

"That's the one I'd sipped on." (Rintaro)

"Buuugh." (Mia) (PTW/N: Maan, I suck at onomatope.)

Because of losing her composure, Mia drinks up all the water in my glass.

I stroke her back as she coughs from choking on water that got into her windpipe
and I wait for her to calm down.

"Ugh......, I'm fine now." (Mia)

"You sure?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. Sorry I got so discomposed all of a sudden." (Mia)

For now, she seems to have calmed down.

Mia rubs her chest to calm herself down and begins to eat the ramen again.

"I'm really okay now, so let's just finish this before this becomes soggy." (Mia)

"Yeah...... You're right." (Rintaro)

Mia, when embarrassed by something, would be distraught like that.

Knowing this, it might have been worth it to come here.

◇◆◇◆

"Uggh...... I can't eat more than this." (Rintaro)

"Oh, you're a surprisingly small eater, aren't you?" (Mia)

"Shut up...... don't expect all high school boys can eat three servings in one
sitting, okay?" (Rintaro)

Although I exercise daily to the extent that my body does not become dull, it is
far from the amount of exercise that a high school boy engaged in club activities
would do.

In addition, it is summer, and I can't deny that I am suffering from summer heat
fatigue.
It's not that I'm a small eater, by any means. I'm not making excuses.

"Do you not suffer from the summer heat? I can get the answer by seeing you
though, you even ordered some extra large servings." (Rintaro)

"We~ll, it's not that I don't suffer from it, but it's more like my body craves more
calories than usual, I guess? Lately, we've been practicing a lot of intense
summer dance songs. My digestive system is not as strong as Rei's or Kanon's,
so I need to lose some weight after taking in too much." (Mia)

"Heeh...... I mean, how can it fit in there in the first place?" (Rintaro)

I look at Mia's belly, which is not even protruding.

Like Rei, her belly doesn't appear pouchy at all, even when I think she's eaten a
lot.

I don't have a clue, but she's not suppressing it with her stomach muscles, is she?

"Where have you been looking since a while ago?" (Mia)

"Your belly." (Rintaro)

"You're being too honest, dude." (Mia)

Mia laughs, clamping her mouth shut.

The conversation made my painful belly feel a little better.

I'll have to keep rubbing it for a while, but it's okay for walking.

"Alright, I think we've accomplished all the goals for now, but what are you
going to do now? I don't mind going out with you for the rest of the day." (Mia)

"Mmm, I'll take your word for it, then. I still have some places I want to go."
(Mia)

"Hmm?" (Rintaro)

"It's the kind of place couples go." (Mia)

Seeing me choking up at the "couple" part, Mia giggles again in amusement.

Phew, I guess I'm finally getting back on the right track now.

I follow Mia's lead.

Eventually, we arrive at a large game center in front of the train station, where
there is a lot of noise.

"A game center, huh?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. To be honest, I've never been to one by myself, nor have I been with Rei or
Kanon, so I was a bit curious about it. Are you familiar with this place?" (Mia)

"No, I've only been here a few times." (Rintaro)

"Is that so?" (Mia)

"I'm not good with big noises...... see, there are all kinds of sound effects and
music mixed in, right? That's why I never came here voluntarily." (Rintaro)

I've never been in those places because I'm underage, but I am not comfortable
with places like pachinko parlors and such, more so than at a game center.

Maybe that's why I'm less interested in such places.

"Ah....., then maybe you're not very interested in...... it?" (Mia)

"I'm not. It's not like I'm allergic to it, nor hate it. As long as it's with you, I'll go
anywhere today." (Rintaro)

"......If so, then I'll take your word for it." (Mia)

Mia looks a little apologetic as she makes her way into the game center.

That was a mistake, I reflect to myself.

I feel bad for both Mia and the game center for showing a lack of enthusiasm in
front of the store when we got there.

If I was going to tell her that I wasn't good at it, I should have said so more
clearly.

On top of that, if I could have said I didn't want to go there, I would have been
able to go to another place without getting into a strange situation――――.

Whatever the case, I don't want to respond half-heartedly.

"Rintaro-kun! There's a UFO catcher!" (Mia)

As soon as we enter, Mia pulls my hand in excitement.

She looks at the UFO catcher machine with stuffed bears of various colors
inside.

"Why don't we try it anyway?" (Mia)

"...... Okay, let's give it a try." (Rintaro)

"Yes!" (Mia)

Saying so, Mia walks toward there.

The sudden increase in tension is probably to warm up the atmosphere between

us once it had dropped.

I honestly appreciate her consideration at times like this.

I decided to ride along without hesitation.

Thus, we decided to play UFO Catcher first――――.

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

The atmosphere between us, which should have been back to square one,
gradually cooled down again.

"...... Hey, isn't this UFO catcher way too hard?" (Mia)

"Well, it would be bad for business if it were taken away easily." (Rintaro)

"That's true, yet......" (Mia)

One thousand yen had already gone into the machine, but not a single stuffed
animal could be taken.

I heard that the strength of the arm is related to the degree of difficulty, but from
what I saw, the grip seemed to be very weak.

"Rintaro-kun, will you give it a try?" (Mia)

"What......? But, I doubt I can get it anyway, is it okay?" (Rintaro)

"It's okay, but still. It's unfair that I'm the only one playing." (Mia)

I think it's different from unfair.

From my standpoint, Mia carries all the burden by putting a hundred-yen coin
from her own wallet, but she doesn't seem to be concerned about that at all.

Anyway, she doesn't seem to have any intention to play by herself, and if I don't
do it, it will be a waste of money.

"Don't complain afterward, okay?" (Rintaro)

"I won't. Don't worry, I have trust in you." (Mia)

"That's putting pressure on me, you know?" (Rintaro)

When I rebuke her, Mia giggles happily.

Well, if she's enjoying herself, that's fine.

".......Phew." (Rintaro)

I exhale and observe what I should do first.

I had been thinking about what I would do while watching Mia play, but
standing in front of the button like this, the sensation feels different.

Let's first adjust the UFO mechanism's horizontal position.

After all, even Mia could easily adjust its position.

Since I can't count on the arm's strength at all, I can only hope that it will luckily
get caught under the armpit or something.

"Here, right......?" (Rintaro)

With a feeling of uneasiness, I let go of the button that moves the UFO
vertically.

Watching with somewhat resigned eyes as the arm slowly lowered, I wait
patiently.

Then, the arm catches the stuffed bear's body.

And as it's lifted up, the tip of the arm slides across the surface of the stuffed
bear.

"Haa~...... Told ya, I couldn't do it――――." (Rintaro)

"Wait! Rintaro-kun!" (Mia)

"Aah?" (Rintaro)

Mia taps me on the shoulder as I turn away from the machine, forcing me to look
back.

Then, an unbelievable scene comes into my view.

"Are you kidding me......?" (Rintaro)

The arm that should have been unable to grip the stuffed bear's body is now
hooked under the bear's armpits.

With that, the stuffed bear is lifted up and falls into the prize door.

Stunned, I open the door made of clear plastic and take out the prize that had
dropped.

"You did it........" (Mia)

"Yeah, I did it......." (Rintaro)

An indescribable silence spreads between Mia and me.

◇◆◇◆

"...... Here, you can have this." (Rintaro)

"What?" (Mia)

Seeing me choking up at the "couple" part, Mia giggles again in amusement.

Phew, I guess I'm finally getting back on the right track now.

I follow Mia's lead.

Eventually, we arrive at a large game center in front of the train station, where
there is a lot of noise.

"A game center, huh?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. To be honest, I've never been to one by myself, nor have I been with Rei or
Kanon, so I was a bit curious about it. Are you familiar with this place?" (Mia)

"No, I've only been here a few times." (Rintaro)

"Is that so?" (Mia)

"I'm not good with big noises...... see, there are all kinds of sound effects and
music mixed in, right? That's why I never came here voluntarily." (Rintaro)

I've never been in those places because I'm underage, but I am not comfortable
with places like pachinko parlors and such, more so than at a game center.

Maybe that's why I'm less interested in such places.

"Ah ....., then maybe you're not very interested in...... it?" (Mia)

"I'm not. It's not like I'm allergic to it, nor hate it. As long as it's with you, I'll go
anywhere today." (Rintaro)

"......If so, then I'll take your word for it." (Mia)
Mia looks a little apologetic as she makes her way into the game center.

That was a mistake, I reflect to myself.

I feel bad for both Mia and the game center for showing a lack of enthusiasm in
front of the store when we got there.

If I was going to tell her that I wasn't good at it, I should have said so more
clearly.

On top of that, if I could have said I didn't want to go there, I would have been
able to go to another place without getting into a strange situation――――.

I hold out the stuffed bear in my hand toward Mia.

"I got this with your money, so that means this is yours, right? Here." (Rintaro)

"N-no no no. You got it with your own effort, so it's yours." (Mia)

"What am I supposed to do with this......I don't have a hobby collecting stuffed

animals, you know?" (Rintaro)

"Me neither......." (Mia)

She looks between the stuffed bear and my face repeatedly.

Then she timidly accepts the stuffed bear from my hand.

"Well...... if you insist, I guess I'll accept it." (Mia)

"From the very beginning, I told you that it was yours――――well, fine."
(Rintaro)

Whatever the pretext, if you accept it, I'm fine with it.

There are men who collect stuffed animals, and I'm not trying to contradict that,
it's just that I don't have that kind of hobby.

If it's going to end up in a closet anyway, I'd much rather it be in someone else's
hands other than mine.
"......Thank you, Rintaro-kun." (Mia)

Mia hugs the stuffed doll she accepted from me with a somewhat happy look on
her face.

Her expression resembles the innocent look she had when she was eating ramen.

I can say that it was worth getting the stuffed doll just to be able to see her
behaving like this.

――――It's just mere luck, though.

"Are there any other games you'd like to try?" (Rintaro)

"Ah, umm...... do they have a photobox here?" (Mia)

"Hmm? Yeah, I think there's probably one in the back corner." (Rintaro)

"Would you mind taking a picture with me? You know, lovers, they take pictures
in the photobox together and put them on the back of their cell phones, don't
they?" (Mia)

In which era is that?

No, maybe even recently?

(......Should I stop touching on every subject too much?)

I break off my train of thought, feeling like I'm about to step on someone's
landmine somewhere.

"If you want to try it, I'll accompany you. I don't know if I can properly behave
like a lover." (Rintaro)

"Thanks. Experience is the key to everything, and I want to try it anyway." (Mia)

Moving to the back of the store, I find that a photobox corner is there.

Just to be sure, I check to see if there are any restrictions that I had heard rumors
about, such as no boys allowed, but it seems there are no such restrictions.
"Rintaro-kun, there is an empty one over there." (Mia)

While several photoboxes are occupied, no one has yet entered the one Mia
pointed to.

Surprised to see so many customers using the machine, even though it's summer
break, we step inside the machine through the cloth like a banner.

"Four hundred yen a time. That's more expensive than a regular game, isn't it?"
(Rintaro)

Mia inserts coins with 100-yen nominal on them into the machine.

Then an announcement starts up and begins to give us instructions.

[Make a heart shape with your two fingers!]

――――Huh?

"Hmmm... So the pose is specified." (Mia)

"Hey, what do we do next!? Something's starting to count!?" (Rintaro)

"For now, let's just give it a try." (Mia)

Mia calmly makes one side of the heart shape with her fingers while the
announcer starts the count to the shutter.

As one would expect from an idol. Mia is used to having her picture taken and is
calm at times like this.

I, on the other hand, am not so calm.

In a nervous manner, I fearfully put my own hand next to Mia's.

[3, 2, 1!]

I hear what sounds like the sound of a shutter being pressed.

It seems we've been shot in the pose we're in now.

[Next, pull your shoulders together!]

Why do you demand such close contact, b*stard?

"Yes, it sure would be a lover's play. Shall we follow all the instructions from
here on out?" (Mia)

".......Yea." (Rintaro)

Suddenly, Mia's shoulder touches mine.

There is no time to feel the stirrings of youth that make one's heart flutter, only
pure embarrassment.

In addition, the embarrassment is further accelerated by the fact that this scene
will remain in the photograph.

[Next up, you two hug each other!]

I want to hit it now, this b*stard.

"That is indeed a little embarrassing." (Mia)

"Err, are you going to do it?" (Rintaro)

"You'll never know unless you try. Right?" (Mia)

I ask myself if we can hug each other when we didn't even hold hands.

No, it'll be impossible.

The only reason――――I refused to hold hands was because of the way people
looked at me.

I needed to maintain a distance that would allow me to claim that we were only
friends in appearance so that I would have an excuse.

But now I don't have those pesky eyes around.

(......Even if it is)
I take a step away from Mia.

"......I see, you can't do it." (Mia)

"Sorry. I'm not saying I hate it, but it's hard to be in close contact with a girl I'm
not even dating." (Rintaro)

"Although you were fine with taking a bath together with me?" (Mia)

"I don't have anything to say to that." (Rintaro)

It's true that I don't hate it.

As a man, it's a great pleasure to be able to hug such a beautiful woman.

But, I wonder why.

I can't accept that with enthusiasm.

"......Yea, that's fine. I'm rather relieved that you're so firm." (Mia)

"You thought...... I'm firm?" (Rintaro)

"To begin with, the time we took a bath together was also something I was
forced onto you using my right. Today it's like I've already asked you for a date
and you're already doing me a favor, so I won't throw a tantrum." (Mia)

Mia says this and smiles as if she has given up.

When I try to respond to her, she interrupts me by placing her index finger on
my lips.

"How-ev-er. I'll definitely have you do the next pose instruction." (Mia)

"......I thought you said you won't throw a tantrum." (Rintaro)

"I think this is a legitimate request." (Mia)

Mia laughs mischievously and turns to the camera.

Well, fine, only that much.

I wait for the next instruction, hoping that it'll be as simple as possible.

[Next up, a princess carry!]

――――I barely saved.

"Ahahaha, that's an interesting pose. Hmm hmm, a princess, huh?" (Mia)

"Phew...... I'm okay it if it's that much." (Rintaro)

"I see. Then may I ask you to relax?" (Mia)

"What?" (Rintaro)

Mia steps closer to me and tries to reach for my knee and the back of my neck.

I quickly move away from her and look at her in disbelief.

"Why are you evading? You can do this, can't you?" (Mia)

"No, no no no! Why are you the one who has to lift me up?" (Rintaro)

"Because I'm a prince character?" (Mia)

Mia is tilting her head with an expression as if to say what is obvious.

It is true that Mia is a cool character among the Millefeuille Stars and is even
called a prince by some people. She has the most female fans of the three, and it
is said that there are often arguments between male and female fans.

But that doesn't mean I'm going to be on the princess side here.

"Huh....... I'm the one who lifts you up, you're the one who gets lifted up. Okay?"
(Rintaro)

"Huh......?" (Mia)

"Don't "huh" me! I'm never going to give that part up!" (Rintaro)

While Mia is stunned by my insistence, I decided to do exactly what she had just
tried to do to me.
I put my arms on the backs of her knees and neck and lift her up in one fluid
motion, scooping her up.

"Hyaaa...... Eh? What?" (Mia)

"See, this is okay, isn't it?" (Rintaro)

Her body, like the other two, feels lighter than I had imagined, it's a mystery of
the female body.

In fact, it probably isn't, but it feels so thin in my hands that I feel as if I could
crush her just by having her in my arms.

While I am having these thoughts, the shutter of the photobox is pressed by the
end of the count.

"――――Are you satisfied?" (Rintaro)

I guess I had fulfilled her request.

I look down at Mia's face for confirmation.

"Ah............ Y-es." (Mia)

Her face, which is unexpectedly close to me as I lift her up, is dyed bright red.

Her eyes, which are somewhat moist, are looking straight into mine, and I begin
to feel somewhat embarrassed.

After I stay like that for a while, the next shutter is clicked.

As expected, it would be a waste to have two photos of the same pose in a row.

Thinking this, I slowly put her body down and have her stand on the floor.

◇◆◇◆

"......It said the next one will be the last. What are we gonna do?" (Rintaro)

From the Photobox, a voice announces that it'll be the last one.
Apparently, the last take is a free pose, so there're no specific instructions.

"Or, are you okay?" (Rintaro)

While I worried about the significant diminishment in her talking, Mia nods her
head and clutches my chest.

"Hey, Rintaro-kun." (Mia)

"What is it?" (Rintaro)

"Can I ask you a favor for the last take?" (Mia)

"It depends on the content." (Rintaro)

"I want you to take another picture of us in the pose you lift me up." (Mia)

I tilt my head, not understanding the true meaning of her request.

"Are you sure? We already took two pictures of us in the same pose." (Rintaro)

"I am. I want to have this last one to be taken as Ugawa Mia." (Mia)

Mia takes off her wig right in front of me.

The black bob cut, which is her natural color, is revealed.

Although her face is a little different from her normal face, perhaps due to the
makeup, she certainly looks like the Mia I am familiar with.

"Here I can take off my disguise and people won't know, this is great, isn't it?"
(Mia)

"......It is. That's about right." (Rintaro)

Mia nods happily and leans her body against me again.

I lifts her body in the same way as before, and the shutter pressed at the end of
the count.

This time, we are not looking at each other, but instead, we are genuinely
looking at the camera.

To be honest, I feel extremely embarrassed, though――――well, since Mia

looks satisfied, I guess it's fine.

◇◆◇◆

Seeing me choking up at the "couple" part, Mia giggles again in amusement.

Phew, I guess I'm finally getting back on the right track now.

I follow Mia's lead.

Eventually, we arrive at a large game center in front of the train station, where
there is a lot of noise.

"A game center, huh?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. To be honest, I've never been to one by myself, nor have I been with Rei or
Kanon, so I was a bit curious about it. Are you familiar with this place?" (Mia)

"No, I've only been here a few times." (Rintaro)

"Is that so?" (Mia)

"I'm not good with big noises...... see, there are all kinds of sound effects and
music mixed in, right? That's why I never came here voluntarily." (Rintaro)

I've never been in those places because I'm underage, but I am not comfortable
with places like pachinko parlors and such, more so than at a game center.

Maybe that's why I'm less interested in such places.

"Ah ....., then maybe you're not very interested in...... it?" (Mia)

"I'm not. It's not like I'm allergic to it, nor hate it. As long as it's with you, I'll go
anywhere today." (Rintaro)

"......If so, then I'll take your word for it." (Mia)

Mia looks a little apologetic as she makes her way into the game center.
That was a mistake, I reflect to myself.

I feel bad for both Mia and the game center for showing a lack of enthusiasm in
front of the store when we got there.

If I was going to tell her that I wasn't good at it, I should have said so more
clearly.

On top of that, if I could have said I didn't want to go there, I would have been
able to go to another place without getting into a strange situation――――.

I――――Ugawa Mia, am a famous celebrity known as an idol.

The Millefeuille Stars, to which I belong to, sell out of CDs instantly whenever
we release a new song, and are so popular that we stay at the top of the charts on
download sites for at least a month.

When we hold concerts, tickets sell out instantly as well, and our merchandise
never stops selling.

If we have such a good track record, we should be a little proud of it, right?

But that's not important right now.

What I'm trying to say is that no matter how I choose my words, I've become
someone that can hardly be called an ordinary person.

Of course, I wanted to be, and I have no regrets about this.

However――――sometimes I really wish I wasn't "MIA" at all.

Especially when I'm in disguise like this.

I remember the day I was approached for the first time when I was walking
down the street.

I remember feeling overwhelmingly happy that I had become famous and

succeeded.

But it was only for a week or so that I felt like a star.

Whenever people gathered around me on the street, the size of the crowd meant
that there were people who would be blocked from passing by.

It is a matter of course that I should not do anything that would disturb others.
That is why I decided to disguise my appearance more carefully than anyone
else.

In the beginning, it was fun because I felt like a different person than I usually
am.

But gradually, I grew tired of pretending to be someone I'm not, and now I don't
even want to go out as much as possible.

Maybe it's because I've been living like that that I sought "her" side.

"Yup......Everything looks fine, I think?" (Mia)

Looking at my reflection in the mirror, I nod my head.

This is the restroom in the arcade where we had taken our Photobox shots.

I've taken off my disguise for just one shoot, and I'm putting back on my
disguise to go back home.

I know it seems like a hassle, but it's necessary to avoid causing trouble for
Rintaro-kun.

"Hmm?" (Mia)

Just when I think I've finally gotten rid of my "MIA"-ness, my phone in my bag
suddenly shakes.

It seems that Rintaro-kun has sent me a Line message.

[I'm sorry. I suddenly have a stomach-ache and need to go to the bathroom. So,
please wait a moment.] (Rintaro)

"Oh no..." (Mia)

I instinctively held my head.

I don't know for sure why, but I have a feeling that the ramen we had for lunch
was the cause. Under the weight of guilt, I try to figure out what to do.

(...Medicine. That's right, I have to go get medicine for him.)

There should be a pharmacy nearby. If I bought medicine to relieve his

stomachache, it might make up for my mistake.

I check my disguise in the mirror one last time and confirmed, then I run outside.
Perhaps because we had spent a lot of time playing UFO catchers, the day is
already starting to turn into the evening.

"It's already this late..." (Mia)

I look up at the sky and mutter so to myself. The day is coming to an end. It's a
bit disappointing, although I was experiencing a day that I hadn't felt short in a
long time.

(I...... had a lot more fun than I thought I would.)

When I'm by Rintaro-kun's side, I can go back to being "Ugawa Mia" instead of
"MIA".

It was something I was grateful for and appreciated, but he probably wouldn't
understand just how much I felt that.

But that's fine.

I enter a pharmacy a little ways away from the game center and buy medicine
and water. I told Rintaro-kun that I would leave the game center for a while and
asked him to wait there.

(Is this what it's like to take care of a sick boyfriend, I wonder?)

Looking at the medicine and water in the bag. I'm happy to have achieved my
goal.

So that means, this lover's game will come to an end.

"Aa~h, how unfortunate." (Mia)

Taking advantage of Rintaro-kun's absence, I spill those words out of my relaxed
mouth.

――――At that moment, a man appears in front of me.

(PTW/N: We're no strangers to the trope, You know the rules and so do I.)

"What a hottie you are! Hey, hey, are you interested in a job that pays well?"

"...Huh?" (Mia)

I'm sorry to say this to someone I just met, but I don't have a good impression of
this person.

He's wearing a sloppy suit, with flashy dyed hair that is stiffly styled with wax
on his head.

His attitude seems to say, "This is cool, right?" and it's somewhat irritating, as he
doesn't seem to understand fashion that suits him at all, which is somewhat
comical.

"I'm introducing night jobs and such. I've been going around and talking to girls
like you who seem like they could earn some money. But no one listens to me at
all... I'm in a pinch with my quota this month, you know? Can you understand?
I'll introduce you to a job where you can quickly make a lot of money by
entertaining men, so can you come with me to the office for a bit?"

"..." (Mia)

From the bits and pieces of what I heard, it's likely that this man is a scout.

However, no matter how I look at or listen to him, he's only doing things that
would damage the reputation of people who work seriously as scouts.

His remarks seemed to be contemptuous of the women who were supposed to be

the targets of his scouting, and he emphasized only the money aspect.

Money itself is not a bad thing, but the way he talked about it was too foul.

It is best to ignore people like him.

"Hey, wait a minute."

"Eh...?" (Mia)

Usually, people like this would give up if you ignored them, but this person
grabs my arm with an irritated tone.

It hurts a little because he suddenly squeezes my arm tightly.

"I told you I'm in trouble, didn't I? Isn't it strange to ignore me?"

"....I'm in a hurry." (Mia)

"That-is-why, I'm really troubled that you won't listen to me. Can't you help me
out a bit?"

――――It's no use, this person won't listen.

The people around us seem to comprehend this situation, but they just walk
away, avoiding us.

I can't blame them for that, but my weak side is screaming for help if possible.

"Just by listening to me at the office, I'll be really grateful. Please, won't you
help me out? I'll make sure you earn some money."

"I-I'm a minor, so I can't do that kind of work." (Mia)

"Oh, come on. You can't be a minor with such a mature appearance, right? Can
you not lie to me?"

His hand, which is holding onto my arm, tightened even more.

If I show my student ID here, I can prove that I'm a minor.

However, it's also a double-edged sword that will reveal that I'm MIA of
MilleSta.

If this man finds out that I am MIA, I don't know what he'll do.

"I~'ll be in much trouble...... Can't you just give in soon? Look, our office is in
that building over there!"

"――――" (Mia)

"Silence means it's okay, right? Let's get going then!"

It's not.

Even though I try to scream, my voice won't come out.

I can't hide my agitation about my current situation.

For some reason, tears wells up in the corners of my eyes and my body
stiffened.

"Don't be so scared. I won't do anything bad."

Am I――――scared?

Oh, I see.

Right now, I'm afraid of this person.

I've had experiences of being approached by men before, and each time I've
acted tough and gotten through them, but today I can't do that.

Probably because I'm not "MIA" right now.

(Rintaro-kun...!)

I call his name in my mind.

Even if I could shout it out loud, Rintaro-kun wouldn't come here.

I was the one who told him to wait for me.

By now, he must be waiting near the game center.

So, I can't expect any help.

All I can do is try to stay in this place with my cowered legs.

Seeing me make such a small resistance, the man makes an obvious expression
of irritation.

"Tch...... You're so annoying! Just shut up and come with me!"

"――――Excuse me." ()

"HUUH!? What the f*ck do you want!?"

"That girl, she is with me." ()

Suddenly, the arm that grabbed me is released.

It seems that someone had intervened and forcefully removed the man's arm
from me.

Slowly, my gaze shifts to the owner of that arm.

"Yo, looks like I barely make it in time." (Rintaro)

It's "Rintaro-kun" who is there, he smiles with relief when he meets my eyes.

◇◆◇◆

As I look at him in a state of confusion, not knowing what has happened, the
scout man forcefully shakes off the arm that had grabbed him, looking more
irritated than ever.

"Ah, geez, it's always these wannabe heroes. Seriously, they really get on my
nerves every time. They think they can mess with my work just because I can't
hit back...... Enough with this, it's too much pain in the a*s. Hey, a*shole, come
over here for a second."

The man pulls Rintaro-kun into the alleyway, grabbing him by the collar.

Whether he had been a troublemaker or not, there was something about his
actions flowing naturally and a peculiar sense of intimidation.

If Rintaro-kun were taken into the alleyway, he will undoubtedly be beaten until
that man is satisfied.
Even if it means getting involved with the police due to his violent behavior, the
man in front of me, consumed by anger, doesn't seem to have the capacity to
think that far.

"Rintaro-kun! ――――" (Mia)

In an attempt to prevent Rintaro-kun from being beaten, I try to intervene and

remove the man's arm.

However, I'm stopped by no one other than Rintaro-kun himself.

――――Why?

Those words slipped out of my mouth.

Rintaro-kun stops me with his hand, silently pleading with his eyes not to move.

In response to his calm gaze, I obediently obey his unspoken request.

"Your hand, I guess it's fine to say this is a form of violence, right?" (Rintaro)

"HUH?"

Rintaro-kun grabs the man's hand that had been gripping his collar and twisted it,
almost effortlessly.

"O-OOOOOOUCH!"

The man, unable to bear the pain, let go of Rintaro-kun's collar, only to be
controlled by Rintaro-kun's hand, swiftly taken on his back

With his arm twisted and restrained behind his back, the man can only struggle
and groan in agony. It's a familiar technique often seen in detective dramas, and
witnessing it in person almost made me want to exclaim in awe.

"If you resist, your shoulder joint will be in serious trouble, so it's better to
behave." (Rintaro)

"...... You F***CK."

Rintaro-kun lets out a sigh as he looks into the infuriated eyes of the man.
Then, he shifts his gaze towards me and kicks the man's back, propelling him
forward.

"Let's run away!" (Rintaro)

"Huh, o...... okay!" (Mia)

While the man is stumbling forward, Rintaro-kun reaches out his hand toward
me.

As I grab his hand, he immediately pulls me out and sprints away from the scene
with all his might.

"Wa...... wait, hey a*sholes!"

"Who will wait when told to wait......!" (Rintaro)

I am pulled by the arm and run.

In front of me is Rintaro-kun's back.

Perhaps because more people are around, the distance between us and the scout
man keeps widening.

The game of tag, which should have been dangerous, somehow becomes fun
when I'm with him.

"Haha, if you can laugh that much, it seems like you don't need any aftercare."
(Rintaro)

"Huh?" (Mia)

Rintaro-kun gradually slows down, turning back looking at me, and says so.

Before I knew it, I was running and laughing.

Even though I had been so scared just a moment ago, it's like they say, "Out of
sight, out of mind." I think I'm quite a moral hazard person.

"For now, let's head back to the station. We can walk slowly from here."
(Rintaro)
"...... Yes." (Mia)

I walk alongside him, with him still holding my hand.

There's no sign of the man chasing us anymore.

We have successfully shaken him off, and finally, my mind is starting to calm
down.

"Ah......" (Mia)

"Hmm? What's wrong?" (Rintaro)

"――――No, it's nothing." (Mia)

As soon as I regained my composure, I realized something and quickly shut my

mouth.

If I didn't, Rintaro-kun would probably "let go" of "my hand".

As long as he holds my hand, I can let myself take advantage of him like
this――――that's what I thought.

"I tried calling you multiple times, but you didn't answer, so I rushed looking for
you, thinking something might have happened... I was surprised to see you being
hit on." (Rintaro)

"Huh, calling me?" (Mia)

When I check my smartphone, just as Rintaro-kun said, there are several missed
call notifications on the lock screen.

Come to think of it, I had put my phone on silent mode since entering the
cinema.

"I'm sorry, I didn't notice." (Mia)

"I see... Geez. From now on, really be careful, okay? I managed to make it in
time this time, but I'm not always by your side." (Rintaro)

"I'm not always by your side", huh?

What Rintaro-kun is saying is true.

We attend different schools. I have my schedule as an idol. No matter how you

look at it, I can't rely on him for time-related matters.

"Ahh. It would be great if you could become my personal manager." (Mia)

"Ahaha, then I'd end up working. So sorry, I can't do that." (Rintaro)

Ah, it's reassuring to see his uncool side like this.

Rintaro-kun being Rintaro-kun is my mercy.

If he were only all cool, I don't think my heart could handle it.

"By the way, Rintaro-kun, you can do Aikido, huh?" (Mia)

"Aikido? Oh, that thing from earlier... Was that Aikido――――I wonder?"
(Rintaro)

"Huh? What do you mean?" (Mia)

"It's because of my family circumstances. When I was in elementary school, I

was made to do various lessons. Among them were martial arts like karate, judo,
and kendo. So I tried a few bites, but honestly, I don't remember which
techniques belong to which anymore. Today, my body just remembered and it
really saved me......" (Rintaro)

As Rintaro-kun says that, his face changes to a slightly pained expression.

But before I can point it out, he returns to his usual expression.

"Well, you never know what will be useful in life. If it ended up helping you,
then that's a good thing." (Rintaro)

"...You're right. Thank you so much." (Mia)

"It's awkward to hear you thank me so sincerely." (Rintaro)

"How rude. I also value manners." (Mia)

Finally, I'm back to my usual self.

We face each other and laugh together.

"......I want you to hear this now that we're here." (Mia)

"Hmm?" (Rintaro)

"I, actually didn't want to be a prince...... I wanted to be a princess." (Mia)

When I confess that, Rintaro-kun looked somewhat surprised.

"I still remember when I was little and read Cinderella and Snow White picture
books, I wanted to wear such cute dresses myself. But my mother told me, "You
don't have the look of a princess, you know"." (Mia)

"......" (Rintaro)

"I love my mother, but at that one time, I was really angry. I couldn't understand
why she would say something like that....... But now, I realized that what my
mother said was right." (Mia)

The reason I aimed to become an idol was because I saw other idols on TV
wearing adorable outfits and dancing.

I wanted to try dressing up the same way.

With that wish, I jumped into the entertainment industry from the path of being
an idol.

"In the end, the costumes I received as an idol, as you know, were all cool
prince-like ones. They never expected cuteness from me from the beginning."
(Mia)

That's why I accepted being a prince character to meet everyone's expectations.

I rationalized it as something necessary to work as an idol――――.

"So cuteness wasn't expected, huh? Well, I guess that's true from the public's
perspective." (Rintaro)
"Yeah...... So I gave up on it a long time ago." (Mia)

"But today, you were more princess-like than anyone else." (Rintaro)

Rintaro-kun says that in a somewhat teasing tone.

At that moment, the events of today flash through my mind.

When I drank the water from his cup and choked at the ramen shop.

When I was flustered as I was held like a princess in a photo box.

When I was being pestered by a dangerous person and he came to my rescue.

Looking back, all of them were embarrassing.

"As I said earlier, I was happy to see a different side of you today. Mia, when
you get excited, you look fit your age." (Rintaro)

"That is――――" (Mia)

"That is?" (Rintaro)

"......No, it's nothing." (Mia)

By my silence, he tilts his head in confusion.

But the words that are about to slip out of my mouth are too embarrassing to say.

(No, it's not true, Rintaro-kun.)

I was able to be a princess because of you.

Because you always treated me like a girl, I was able to stop being a prince.

――――I want to say that, but I can no longer be "MIA" in front of him. I am
overwhelmed by embarrassment.

"Thank you today, Rintaro-kun. Thanks to you, I might have learned a thing or
two about acting." (Mia)
"I see." (Rintaro)

I shouldn't forget the things that made me happy with Rintaro-kun.

If I don't forget, things will surely go well.

(If I don't forget, huh...... There's no way I can forget.)

Maybe I'm a more simpleton than I think I am.

Because, he could easily crumble the image I had built up until now.

"Hey, 'Rintaro-kun'." (Mia)

"Hmm...?" (Rintaro)

"......Fufu, it's nothing." (Mia)

"What's that? You're such a weirdo." (Rintaro)

Sorry, Rintaro-kun.

Because I still get embarrassed, I'll keep these words in my heart for now.

――――Thank you for making my heart race.

 Chapter 3: New Semester

Plucking the strings with my fingers, I make a sound.

It's a lively melody with a resonating bass, but just before the chorus ends, the
sound disappears as soon as my fingers stop.

"......I can't concentrate at all." (Rintaro)

I release my hand from the strings and lean back against the couch.

It has already been three days since I went on a date with Mia.

Our agreement was to spend time as temporary lovers until Rei returns.

And that agreement ends today.

Originally, Rei's absence was estimated to be about a week, but it seems that her
work finished smoothly, and she will be coming back this evening.

Since that date, if asked if I had done anything special with Mia, I would answer
no.

At most, I just helped her with her summer homework, if it counted?

Honestly, I'm glad that I didn't have to do anything more embarrassing than that.

However――――

(Why do I...... feel so awkward?)

Until yesterday, I was with Mia, and from today, I will be with Rei. I feel a sense
of guilt, as if I'm switching between women, and with that thought my mood is
not good.
(And, why do I have to be so restless?)

That's right. It's not like I'm dating anyone, so I should just think of it as hanging
out with a friend.

――――Even if I convince myself with that, my heart is still clouded.

"......Are you okay?"

"Whoa!?" (Rintaro)

A voice suddenly sounds next to my ear, and I turn around with a surprised
voice.

Standing there is Rei, with a surprised expression just like mine. She blinks a
few times while looking at me.

"Sorry, I didn't expect you to be so surprised like that." (Rei)

"W-when... did you come back?" (Rintaro)

"Just now. I opened the door and came in normally. Then I realized that Rintaro
didn't notice me at all, so I decided to call out to you." (Rei)

"Ah...... sorry. I was lost in thought." (Rintaro)

I stand up and gesture for Rei to sit on the couch instead, then head towards the
kitchen.

"I'm thinking of making iced coffee, do you want some?" (Rintaro)

"Yes, I want some. It was really hot when I came back." (Rei)

"Alright, wait a moment." (Rintaro)

Unlike making regular coffee, when making iced coffee, you need to consider
the amount of ice and brew the coffee stronger.

However, the process itself doesn't change much.

Just use more beans and make it with the same amount of water as usual.
Put ice in a glass and pour the strong and hot coffee over it.

When the ice melts, it will be the perfect strength.

"I've added coffee creamer and gomme syrup. Let me know if it feels off and I'll
adjust it." (Rintaro)

"Thank you." (Rei)

Rei takes the glass from me and sips the coffee with the straw I prepared.

"Mmm, taste good. It's just right." (Rei)

"I see. Then I'll make it with the same recipe next time." (Rintaro)

"It's because you're so proficient like this that I can't leave you, Rintaro." (Rei)

"You're exaggerating." (Rintaro)

Feeling somewhat content, I also sit on the sofa and sip the iced coffee.

The cold coffee flows into my stomach, calming down my restless thoughts.

"You finished work pretty quickly, didn't you?" (Rintaro)

"Yeah. It was a shoot for a small commercial to be aired on video sites and such,
but the required duration suddenly became shorter, so we finished in about half
the time." (Rei)

"I see......" (Rintaro)

"Hey, Rintaro?" (Rei)

"W-what?" (Rintaro)

"Is it true that you went on a date with Mia?" (Rei)

――――Suddenly, my sweat bursts out.

I feel a sensation as if all the moisture in my body has evaporated, and my throat
becomes suddenly dry.
(No, wait, this is strange, isn't it?)

Right. Why do I have to react like a cheating husband who got caught?

I haven't done anything wrong.

Yea, I'll go with that feeling.

"Ah, well, yeah. She wanted to know what it feels like to be a lover for her next
job, so I cooperated." (Rintaro)

Hmm, it sounds like I'm making excuses, doesn't it? This is troublesome.

"By the way, how do you know about that?" (Rintaro)

"Mia was flaunting it in front of me." (Rei)

Rei shows me her smartphone screen with a perpetually displeased expression.

On it, there was a photo of me and Mia making heart signs with our hands in the
photo box.

Seeing it again like this, it's truly embarrassing from the bottom of my heart.

"......That's unfair. I want to go on a date with Rintaro too." (Rei)

"Well, umm... haven't we done that a few times already?" (Rintaro)

"That's true. But I want more." (Rei)

Rei leans forward, and our faces come close together.

A slightly different scent is tickling my nostrils, maybe it's because she used a
different shampoo than usual while she was out.

Even if I try not to be conscious of it at this distance, my heart starts pounding.

"I...... I understand. I'll go along with what you want to do next time." (Rintaro)

"Really?" (Rei)
"Yeah. We can go out together again, or if there's something else you want to do,
that's fine too." (Rintaro)

"Then, I want us to go around the school festival together." (Rei)

The school festival, huh?

I start thinking with a calm head again.

"No... that wouldn't do, right?" (Rintaro)

"Why?" (Rei)

"Going around the school together like that would be like inviting suspicion. It's
practically suicidal." (Rintaro)

Even if I try to push it by using the excuse of being relatives, it still feels
unnatural to enjoy the cultural festival together.

Even if most people were convinced, it would still be troublesome if some

doubted it.

"You have...... a point. Then I'll think of something else." (Rei)

"Hey, I feel like you're gaining more rights to casually make me listen to what
you say, aren't you?" (Rintaro)

"It's just your imagination." (Rei)

"That's unreasonable......" (Rintaro)

What a lass, she leaves no room for carelessness or vulnerability.

(Well, it's fine.)

It seems I still can't resist Rei's pleas after all.

And by being asked like this, the guilt I felt before fades away.

I have to admit that, even my own mind is simple.

"Are you going to take a break from work for a while?" (Rintaro)

"Yup. I have a lot of free time in my schedule. Since students must be struggling
with summer vacation assignments, I was given extra time off." (Rei)

"And what about your idol activities? Are you taking a break too?" (Rintaro)

"Something like that." (Rei)

So, from today onwards, I'll be able to cook for Rei almost every day.

"Hmm... Since work has settled down, I'll make a feast today." (Rintaro)

"Is that okay?" (Rei)

"Thanks to your hard work, I can live in this apartment, so doing this is no
sweat." (Rintaro)

I knew Rei would come back, so I bought the ingredients properly.

This should be enough to make a slightly luxurious meal.

"By the way, what do you want to have?" (Rintaro)

"Then, I want a hamburg steak?" (Rei)

"Okay, leave it to me." (Rintaro)

I pick up an apron and say so in a slightly cool manner.

◇◆◇◆

The peaceful time of summer break for students passed by in the blink of an eye,
and the new semester arrived.

After finishing the opening ceremony in the lingering heat, the next day came.

The classes for the new semester have already begun, and during our lunch break
session, some classmates wear weary expressions.

As usual, I sit across from Yukio at our desks, eating lunch and engaging in
small talk.

"Rintaro, did you properly put away the mug cup we bought the other day?"
(Yukio)

"Of course. I washed it and put it away neatly for when you came." (Rintaro)

"Well, that's good then. Yeah." (Yukio)

As he says that, Yukio has a satisfied expression on his face.

In the second half of summer break, as promised, I went to buy a mug cup with
Yukio. I vividly remember Yukio excitedly picking out a cup with a dolphin
character similar to the one Rei and I used.

"By the way, how's your bass practicing?" (Yukio)

"Bass practicing? Umm... about that." (Rintaro)

"Huh? Is it not in good progress?" (Yukio)

"No, it's not that. I practice every day without fail, and I'm getting
better――――I think. but I haven't practiced with the other two even once, so I
can't really say." (Rintaro)

"I see... I'm not familiar with instruments, but it seems like it's quite difficult to
harmonize with other instruments." (Yukio)

I'm not a particularly cooperative person, and in terms of skills, I'm still a
beginner who has been playing for less than a month.

To be honest, I've been anxious for about a week now, and there have been times
when I didn't know what to do because my growth seemed to be slowing down.

"Right now, it's like this, but as the performance approaches, we're planning to
rent a studio for practice, so I'm not too worried." (Rintaro)

"Heh, I see. I'm looking forward to seeing you play the bass, Rintaro. Do your
best." (Yukio)

"Yeah, I'll do everything I can." (Rintaro)

I touch my fingertips, which have become hardened from pressing down on the
strings all this time.

It makes me a little bit proud that I can be so engrossed in something other than
household chores.

"Hmm...... Anyway, what's the afternoon class today?" (Rintaro)

"It's to decide what we're going to put on for the school festival. It's only a
month left after all." (Yukio)

Our school has a lot of students, so the school festival itself is quite large.

Every class puts in all their efforts, and there are even new students who chose
this school because they wanted to experience and participate in our school
festival.

"What did we do last year?" (Rintaro)

"You forgot? We had a food stall. There was a disagreement about whether to
have a takoyaki or yakisoba at the festival, so we ended up having both." (Yukio)

"Oh yeah, there was." (Rintaro)

I'm starting to remember.

We opened four different stalls in the classroom: yakisoba, takoyaki, cotton

candy, and shaved ice.

"Last year was quite successful, but I wonder how it will be this year." (Yukio)

"Well, as long as we don't choose the wrong theme, there shouldn't be any
failures." (Rintaro)

"Yeah, that's true. Our class has a lot of serious people after all." (Yukio)

As the start of a big event approaches, there is a slightly restless atmosphere in

the classroom.

It's evidence that many people are looking forward to it.

Time passes, and it's after school.

As we sit at our desks waiting, our homeroom teacher, Harukawa Yuri-sensei,

enters the classroom.

After we finish the greetings, Harukawa-sensei clears her throat and begins to
speak.

"Well, this season has come again. Let's decide on the theme for our long-
awaited school festival!" (Harukawa-sensei)

"""OOOOH!"""

Cheers rise from the enthusiastic classmates.

I hope we don't end up with a troublesome theme, looking up at this high

tension.

"Yes, yes, it seems like everyone is motivated. Before we get into a serious
meeting, shall we decide on the school festival committee member first?"
(Harukawa-sensei)

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

"Hey, hey, stop blatantly lowering the tension." (Harukawa-sensei)

Well, that position is the most bothersome after all. I can understand why
everyone's tension drops.

To be honest, as long as I can avoid being a committee member, it's fine with
me, no matter what the performance is.

"Sigh...... Well, for the time being, anyone who wants to be a committee member
is fine." (Harukawa-sensei)

Harukawa-sensei calls out to us so.

What follows is a probing among classmates.

Gazes filled with the wish for someone to do it are flying around the classroom.
"......I knew it would come to this, makes Sensei a little sad. Well! I understand
the feeling though!" (Harukawa-sensei)

Sensei sympathizes that this task is bothersome.

"But if we leave it like this, nothing will be decided. Should we try the usual
recommendation method next? Is there anyone who can be entrusted with this?"
(Harukawa-sensei)

And so it begins.

The recommendation for the school festival committee member is nothing more
than the selection of a sacrificial lamb.

Once recommended here, it goes without saying that it's difficult to refuse.

And because everyone understands that, it's also difficult to betray their friends.

――――That being said.

And also, it's only natural that no one will speak up in this situation.

".......Sigh. Last year, you guys decided quite easily." (Harukawa-sensei)

That was because we didn't understand the harshness of being on the school
festival committee.

By now, the freshmen must have decided easily.

And the serious one who unintentionally became the sacrifice will bear the
brunt.

"Well, there's no helping it. Then...... how about you, Kakihara-kun? I think
you're quite suited for it." (Harukawa-sensei)

"Eh, m-me...?" (Yuusuke)

Everyone's gaze turns towards Kakihara.

It seems that this year's sacrifice has been decided.

"I-if it's Kakihara, we can trust it on him with peace of mind!"

"Yeah! He's the perfect person for it!"

"I've always thought he was dependable!"

Everyone starts raising their voices all at once.

Kakihara has already been completely locked on.

Of course, even if someone were put in this situation, they would unhesitatingly
refuse. At least, that's what I would do.

However, due to Kakihara's personality――――

"......I-I understand! I will live up to everyone's expectations!" (Yuusuke)

"""OOOHH!"""

――――This is how it turned out.

As if it had been planned in advance, Kakihara is chosen to be the school festival

committee member.

But, to put it this way, there is no doubt that he is the most qualified person for
it.

He is recognized by everyone as an honor student, and he does not belong to any

clubs or committees, so he doesn't have to juggle multiple responsibilities.

In terms of logic alone, there's no one more suited for the role.

"Alright! So Kakihara-kun is decided as the committee member! Class

representative Nikaido-san, please support Kakihara-kun from now on."
(Harukawa-sensei)

"Yes... understood." (Azusa)

When Nikaido is requested so, I can see Kakihara making a small victory pose in
the corner of my vision.
(I see...... Kakihara, you're surprisingly a tactician.)

The school festival committee usually consists of one person from each class,
but it is customary for class representatives to assist in some way.

The reason it is described as 'customary' is because it is not officially mandated

as part of the system.

At least in the class overseen by Harukawa-sensei, this is how the system works.

The class representative must prioritize assisting the school festival committee
over the regular duties, which inevitably increases their time together.

However, this situation can be seen as the best preparation for the festival.

While it may not be commendable for personal interests to be involved in the

committee's work, I don't mind at all.

He's taking care of our troubles for the sake of his own romantic pursuits.

Rather, I believe there should be some kind of reward for his efforts.

◇◆◇◆

"Then, I'll leave the rest to Kakihara-kun and Nikaido-san?" (Harukawa-sensei)

"Understood." (Yuusuke)

Kakihara and Nikaido stand up and take their place at the teacher's desk,
replacing Harukawa-sensei.

"Now, let's decide on what we're going to present right away. Can those with
opinions raise their hands?" (Yuusuke)

And so, the discussion smoothly transitions to the topic of what to put on the
school festival.

Kakihara listens to the opinions while Nikaido writes them on the blackboard.

It seems that this format is established without much discussion between both of
them, perhaps due to their long-standing relationship.
"Me, me! I want to suggest a haunted house!"

"A haunted house, huh? It's a classic as the first suggestion." (Yuusuke)

One boy's opinion is added to the blackboard.

During our freshmen time, the haunted house, which is relatively a popular
attraction, was handled by the sophomores under the authority of the grade.

Or rather, it could be said that the popular attractions were all monopolized by
the sophomores.

It was somewhat inevitable, as the seniors were struggling with entrance exams,
and the sophomores already understood the know-how and had more freedom to
act.

As a result, the sophomores' requests were more likely to be granted.

"What about something like a show? Like a theater or a dance show, something
in the performance category."

"A show, huh... It sounds quite challenging, but it also sounds worthwhile."
(Yuusuke)

One girl's opinion is added to the blackboard, adding up the choices to two.

"We'll hear more suggestions about the content of the show after all the opinions
have been given. Now, please share other ideas." (Yuusuke)

"Ah...... How about a café? I think it's also a classic."

"Sounds good. Since the sophomores were mainly in charge of the café last year,
everyone might have been holding back their frustrations." (Yuusuke)

Kakihara jokingly says so, and laughter erupts among us.

Most of our classmates can relate to it.

The café is also a popular attraction on par with the haunted house, and last year
it was, as expected, monopolized by the current seniors.
It's no wonder that many of them are fired up about it this year.

By the way, I'm the type who's pretty much fine with anything as long as it's not
too much of a hassle.

It's not like I really want to do a café or haunted house, so for now, I'll just go
along with the atmosphere and laugh.

"Feel free to express your opinions. It's okay to have as many opinions as you
want here." (Yuusuke)

In times like this, Kakihara is definitely reliable.

With his precise leadership, the brainstorming proceeded quite smoothly.

And through voting, the idea of a café, which everyone had admired, ended up
surviving.

Well, I guess it's reasonable up to this point.

"――――Alright, then we'll go with a café. The question is what kind of café
we'll present... Do you have any opinions, Azusa?" (Yuusuke)

"Me? Hmm... Maybe a Japanese-style café. It would be fun if the girls dressed in
kimonos and the boys in jinbeis served the customers, don't you think?" (Azusa)

"That's a good idea! Write it down for now." (Yuusuke)

There might be a slight bias in Kakihara's excitement, but Nikaido's opinion

itself is not bad.

There's no need for flashy decorations, and if we make traditional Japanese

sweets like clear warabimochi, it'll still attract attention and become a hot topic
within the school. And in fact, the process of making it is surprisingly simple.

After several ideas were proposed, the final choices narrowed down to
"Japanese-style café," "Maid-butler café," and "Cross-dressing café."

While it's only the classic choices that still remained. It's understandable because
most high school students yearn for them.
"We surprisingly made it this far smoothly. Now, let's decide which genre to go
with through another voting." (Yuusuke)

"Kakihara! Before that, I have a question!"

Just as they are about to move on to another voting, a lively boy raises his hand.

"Hmm? What's it?" (Yuusuke)

"If the maid café chosen, will Otosaki-san also cosplay?"

With those words, everyone's (mostly boys) attention turned to Rei.

Until now, she has been mostly on the sidelines, but now she wears an
expression of confusion as she suddenly becomes the center of attention.

"Eh...... Me?" (Rei)

"EEH?! I wanna see Otosaki-san in a maid outfit!"

Following that, the excited voices of the girls could be heard.

Being able to see a popular idol dressed in a maid outfit up close is not
something that happens often.

For fans, it would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a lasting memory.

"......I don't think I can do it on the first day because the general public will also
come, but I think it will be fine on the second day." (Rei)

"""WHOAAAAA!"""

How many times have I heard this cheer today?

The enthusiasm of my classmates is so overwhelming that even Rei, who is

usually composed, looks perplexed.

"Ah, let me say this first. Otosaki-san will only participate in the school festival
on the second day. On the first day, the general public can enter, and it wouldn't
be good if something happened." (Harukawa-sensei)
"Understood, Sensei."

Everyone agrees with Harukawa-sensei's words.

Our school's cultural festival takes place over two days, with the first day open
to the public. And the second day is reserved for the students to enjoy.

If Rei were to serve customers or walk around while the general public is
present, it would be chaotic and not conducive to the festival.

This is a classic reminder that becoming famous is not always a good thing.

"Hahaha... given the current situation, it seems like it has already been
concluded, but let's take a voting just to be sure." (Yuusuke)

With a somewhat astonished expression, Kakihara asks for a show of hands, and
about 80% of the class raises their hands for the maid and butler café.

Following the flow, I also raise my hand modestly for the maid and butler café.

It doesn't matter which one, but it's a safer choice to go with the majority.

Though, I have no ulterior motive either.

――――――Or do I?

"Then, let's decide on the menu and work distribution right away. Does anyone
have any suggestions?" (Yuusuke)

In response to Kakihara's question, several hands go up.

All of them are the ones who have been giving opinions and suggesting ideas for
the café from the beginning.

Tea, coffee, cola, and juices like orange juice.

As the drinks are mostly decided, the focus shifts to the food.

"The drinks are decided, I guess. Now, moving on to the foods......" (Yuusuke)

"Kakihara-kun, why don't we ask Shidou-kun for advice on food?" (Azusa)

"Huh, ask Rintaro?" (Yuusuke)

Suddenly, Nikaido mentions my name and the whole class turns their attention
towards me.

It is so sudden that I can't hide my surprise.

"M... Me?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. You were really efficient during the cooking practice the other day, so I
thought we could rely on you if we need to make something." (Azusa)

"O-oh...... so that's what you meant." (Rintaro)

Kakihara, Nogi, and Doumoto, who were in the same group during the cooking
practice, look somewhat contented.

And when I see Rei nodding discreetly, trying not to be noticed by everyone, I
let out a small sigh.

"I can't think of anything right now, but I had a menu in mind that I wanted to
propose if we were to have a Japanese-style cafe. It's a clear warabimochi......"
(Rintaro)

"Clear? What it means?" (Yuusuke)

"It's clear because it's made with potato starch. It's not that difficult to make, and
I think it can be surprisingly light." (Rintaro)

"Oh, that sounds good! Can we take it as a suggestion for now?" (Yuusuke)

"Yes, it's okay, I guess." (Azusa)

The words "clear warabimochi" that I proposed are written on the blackboard.

It's a seriously random suggestion, but I'm relieved that no one opposed it.

Somehow, it's kind of embarrassing to be relied upon by my classmates like this.

However, it's not a bad one either.

"Keep conveying more of your opinions and ideas like this. The school festival
is the most exciting event in our high school life, no exaggeration. That's why,
let's do our best so that we won't have any regrets in the future." (Yuusuke)

Kakihara's speeches make me feel that the class is coming together more and
more.

Although Kakihara had become more of a good-for-nothing person due to being

in love, when he took the lead, his charisma was undeniable.

That is why, Nikaido, could you please look at the person next to you instead of
me? I beg you, please.

◇◆◇◆

"Hey, are you really going to cosplay?" (Rintaro)

"Huh?" (Rei)

On the night after our performance for the school festival was decided, I ask Rei
who is sitting on the couch while doing the dishes.

She has a puzzled look on her face, as if she doesn't understand why she's being
asked that question. She stops eating her vanilla ice cream cup dessert and turns
her gaze toward me.

"Well...... I'm just wondering if you're really going to cosplay......" (Rintaro)

"Mmm. I think I might be causing trouble for everyone because of me, so if I can
at least meet their expectations, I want to do it." (Rei)

"...I see." (Rintaro)

She must be feeling guilty about not being able to participate and help on the
first day and not being able to attend events due to work.

But even so――――

(Why I kind of feel somewhat uneasy......)

I realized that I have been washing the same plate for a while and become
overwhelmed with mixed emotions as I rinse off the clinging bubbles with water.

"Rintaro." (Rei)

"What is it......" (Rintaro)

"Could it be that you don't want me to cosplay?" (Rei)

I involuntarily flinch.

She hits somewhere in my heart that I had thought shouldn't exist, and this upset
me to a level that surprised even me myself.

(Do I really not want Rei to cosplay......?)

I take a deep breath and think calmly about it.

I think cosplay itself is okay and she can do whatever she wants with it. Yeah, I
mean this.

In the first place, it doesn't matter to me how others dress up, so there's no need
to be against it in the first place.

So why do I feel unsettled――――

"...I don't know." (Rintaro)

"You don't know?" (Rei)

"I've never thought about criticizing what others do......" (Rintaro)

After rinsing off the foam on my hands and placing the last dish in the draining
basket, I pick up my vanilla ice cream from the freezer and sit on the couch, just
like Rei.

"Sorry, it sounded like I was nagging you." (Rintaro)

"No, it's fine. I'm actually happy about it." (Rei)

"Huh, why?" (Rintaro)

"More importantly, your ice cream is melting, you know?" (Rei)

While feeling somewhat puzzled by Rei's happy attitude, I look down at my cup
of ice cream.

Certainly, the edges have become soft, and it's clear that it has already started to
melt from my body temperature.

"......That's true." (Rintaro)

Using the spoon, I scoop up the softened part and brought it to my mouth,
savoring the unique smoothness of the slightly expensive ice cream as it slowly
melts on my tongue.

This ice cream was given to me as a treat when I worked part-time at Yuzuki-
sensei's place during the latter half of summer break, but it's good enough that I
want to buy it with my own money next time.

It can even blow away my unsettled feelings――――.

"By the way, do boys wear butler uniforms too?" (Rei)

"Hmm? Yeah, that was the plan." (Rintaro)

If Kakihara or Doumoto wear it, they will look decent, and considering their
popularity among girls, it'll also have an impact on attracting customers.

Yukio's butler appearance is also likely to be popular. He is quite popular among

girls as well.

"Do you wear it too, Rintaro?" (Rei)

"Yeah. It seems like the cook and waitperson roles will be swapped between the
first and second day, so I'm supposed to wear it at least once." (Rintaro)

"I see." (Rei)

What a strange conversation.

As I'm thinking that, Rei finishes her ice cream cup and turns towards me.
"Hey, Rintaro, do you want to see me in a maid outfit?" (Rei)

"H-huh!?" (Rintaro)

I almost drop my ice cream in surprise.

Somehow managing to regain my composure, I meet her gaze as she blinks like
a curious child asking a simple question.

"I want to see it. The Rintaro in a butler outfit. I'm sure it'll look cool." (Rei)

"...You're expecting too much. It definitely won't be anything special." (Rintaro)

"No, I'm sure it will." (Rei)

Well, I don't usually take that much care in dressing myself up, so it might have
some novelty――――.

"But I don't want others to see you in that butler outfit too much. I know I'm
asking for too much, but I want to be the first one to see you in it. Just like with
the swimsuit." (Rei)

"O-Oh... You're still curious as ever, huh?" (Rintaro)

"What about you, Rintaro?" (Rei)

"Pardon?" (Rintaro)

"Do you want to see me in a maid outfit?" (Rei)

"Well, um...... I do want to see it." (Rintaro)

Ah――――.

I unintentionally let out a small voice.

Hearing me say so, Rei smiles.

Right now, I have just revealed the true nature of the uneasiness I have been
feeling to her.
It is the same feeling that Rei has towards me――――.

"I-I'm going to go grocery shopping......" (Rintaro)

"At this hour?" (Rei)

"I don't have enough ingredients for tomorrow's lunchbox. If I don't go now, I
won't make it in time for the morning." (Rintaro)

"......I guess that can't be helped. Lunchbox is important." (Rei)

Leaving Rei, who easily believes me when I mention the lunchbox, I stand up
from the couch.

I only take my wallet, smartphone, and house keys, put on my sandals, and head
outside.

"......I was impatient." (Rintaro)

I sit on the flower bed in front of the apartment building, exhaling and hanging
my head.

I feel like I've said it many times before, but maybe only Otosaki Rei can shake
me up like this in my entire life.

The time I spend with her is pleasant, but at the slightest provocation, my
composure is blown away.

It's really lame to run away like this, but I can't help it anyway.

I look up at the sky to cool down my strangely heated cheeks.

"――――What are you doing?"

At that moment, I meet eyes with a familiar girl with red hair.

"Whoa!?" (Rintaro)

"WHY are you so surprised? Or...... did a sudden appearance of a beauty like me
make you flustered!?" (Kanon)
"Phew, don't startle me, Kanon." (Rintaro)

"Huh? Was my voice too quiet? I didn't expect to be ignored!" (Kanon)

"I'm not ignoring you. We're having a conversation, looking at each other."
(Rintaro)

"What too convenient ears you have there!" (Kanon)

As always, I can't help but laugh at Kanon's loud voice on the night street.
She has a bag for work and a hat to obscure her face.

Clearly, she is on her way home from her work.

When I look at her face, she seems more tired than usual.

"Are you just done with work? Good job." (Rintaro)

"Thanks. Well, shooting a music video for a single is a piece of cake for me."
(Kanon)

"......You seem tired though." (Rintaro)

"......Well yeah. I'm pretty sure I'll be able to sleep like a log tonight." (Kanon)

"You must be really exhausted." (Rintaro)

At a time like this is my turn.

"Well, I have something special in my room――――Ah!" (Rintaro)

"Hmm? What's with that 'Oh no!' expression?" (Kanon)

"Well...... come to think of it, I left Rei in my room......" (Rintaro)

"Did you have a fight? It's rare to see you outside like this." (Kanon)

"It's not a fight...... It's just a little awkward, or rather, embarrassing." (Rintaro)

Upon hearing my words, which have unintentionally become softer, Kanon let
out an exaggerated sigh.

In the second half of summer break, as promised, I went to buy a mug cup with
Yukio. I vividly remember Yukio excitedly picking out a cup with a dolphin
character similar to the one Rei and I used.

"By the way, how's your bass practicing?" (Yukio)

"Bass practicing? Umm... about that." (Rintaro)

"Huh? Is it not in good progress?" (Yukio)

"No, it's not that. I practice every day without fail, and I'm getting
better――――I think. but I haven't practiced with the other two even once, so I
can't really say." (Rintaro)

"I see... I'm not familiar with instruments, but it seems like it's quite difficult to
harmonize with others." (Yukio)

I'm not a particularly cooperative person, and in terms of skills, I'm still a
beginner who has been playing for less than a month.

To be honest, I've been anxious for about a week now, and there have been times
when I didn't know what to do because my growth seemed to be slowing down.

"Right now, it's like this, but as the performance approaches, we're planning to
rent a studio for practice, so I'm not too worried." (Rintaro)

"Heh, I see. I'm looking forward to seeing you play the bass, Rintaro. Do your
best." (Yukio)

"Yeah, I'll do everything I can." (Rintaro)

I touch my fingertips, which have become hardened from pressing down on the
strings all this time.

It makes me a little bit proud that I can be so engrossed in something other than
household chores.

"Hmm...... Anyway, what's the afternoon class today?" (Rintaro)

"It's to decide what we're going to put on for the school festival. It's only a
month left after all." (Yukio)

Our school has a lot of students, so the school festival itself is quite large.

Every class puts in all their efforts, and there are even new students who chose
this school because they wanted to experience and participate in our school
festival.
"Sigh, it's probably just because of Rei's casual remark that your pace is thrown
off, right?" (Kanon)

Is she an esper or something?

Kanon seemed to have confirmed it when I stayed silent. She lets out another big
sigh.

I never thought I would be astonished by her――――and it's quite frustrating.

"Since it’s such a common occurrence, it’s no use worrying about it. It's
troublesome if you get all flustered just because you're involved with an idol!"
(Kanon)

"Y-yeah... I know it." (Rintaro)

She's right.

Because I get too excited, I have weird expectations, and then get weirdly
flustered.

――――Hmm, I'm starting to calm down and think rationally.

Finally, Shidou Rintaro felt like he has regained his footing on the ground.

"Thanks, Kanon. I've cooled my head." (Rintaro)

"......Is so, then that's good." (Kanon)

Kanon crosses her arms and smiles, as if she's relieved about something.

I don't know what that relief implies.

However, I know that it is something that leaked out against her will.

――――Therefore, I will pretend not to notice.

"Well then, show me that special thing you mentioned earlier." (Kanon)

"Sure. I won't let you down." (Rintaro)

I brush off the bit of sand on my pants and stand up.

◇◆◇◆

I return to my room with Kanon, and Rei, who has remained in the living room,
look at us with a surprised look.

"Hn, Why is Kanon with Rintaro?" (Rei)

"We ran into each other at the entrance. I met her at the entrance. She looked
tired, so I thought I'd treat her to a little something special I've been preparing
for a little while." (Rintaro)

"A special treat?" (Rei)

"I had originally planned to save it for tomorrow, though――――" (Rintaro)

I encourage Kanon to sit down on the couch and open the refrigerator.

"I wonder what this something special actually is? Do you have any clue of it,
Kanon?" (Rei)

"I just followed him a few minutes ago, so I don't have any clue. But the nuance
seems to be that it's something that will relieve your fatigue......." (Kanon)

"I see......." (Rei)

While listening to their conversation, I take out a jar filled with a golden liquid
from the refrigerator.

The yellow-peeled fruit is sliced thin and soaked in the liquid beautifully.

"This is my favorite. The lemon pickled in honey." (Rintaro)

""OOH......."" (Rei, Kanon)

Their exclamations of admiration overlap.

I put it on the table in front of them, and they both begin to observe the contents
of the jar.
"I was actually going to let them soak until tomorrow, but I thought it was
already aged enough. Besides, I also wanted to see what it tasted like, so why
don't you two be my test subjects?" (Rintaro)

"I'd love to try it. At this point, it already looks delicious." (Rei)

"I was also surprised at how much prettier it looked than I thought it would be.
Alright, time to give these a try." (Rintaro)

I hand out plates to both of them and each picks a slice of lemon from the jar.

And almost simultaneously, they put them in their mouths and their eyes
widened.

"Whoa......th-this is too good!" (Kanon)

"So good......!" (Rei)

I'm silently nodding at Kanon and Rei's impressions.

The sweetness of the honey perfectly compensates for the sourness and
bitterness of the peel.

And while it is sweet, the lemon's unique cool, refreshing sensation seems to be
addictive.

――――And for your information.

All of the lemons used in this recipe were local.

Although the price is a little expensive, there is a good reason why we went to
the trouble of using domestically grown lemons.

First of all, there is little possibility of pesticides adhering to the peel.

Lemons imported from overseas must be stored for a long time, and measures
are taken to prevent them from spoiling.

I honestly felt uneasy about pickling the lemon that contained additives on it.

Therefore, I decided to use local lemons that could be pickled as they are.
On a related note, if it was difficult to obtain local lemons, I could use foreign
lemons with no problem if I just peeled the yellow peel off the surface with a
peeler or the like.

It would be more work to do, but it would also shave off some of the bitter,
cottony bits in the peel and make it easier to pickle.

――――Well, that's enough for trivia.

I get up and head for the kitchen.

Then I take out three glasses and fill each a half full of ice.

After carrying the ice-filled glass to the table, I put the carbonated water I have
chilled in the refrigerator to them.

"Put two spoons of honey in the glass half-filled with ice. Then top it off with
the carbonated water...... and for the finishing touch, put a pickled lemon on
top....... Voila, your lemon honey squash is ready." (Rintaro)

""WHOA!"" (Rei, Kanon)

Rei and Kanon's excitement levels are skyrocketing, and their sparkling eyes
were directed at the glasses.

If I prepare the second serving in the same way, we will have enough lemon
squash for three.

"The actual fact is, I wish I could have made this when summer was in full
swing, but I genuinely forgot about to do....... Well, forget about that and just
drink these." (Rintaro)

The three of us all slurp down our lemon squash.

The lemon aroma infiltrate the nose, the sweetness of honey on the tongue, and
the refreshing feeling of carbonated water are pleasantly mixed together and
surprised me.

"Delish......!" (Kanon)
"Second!" (Rei)

"What, already." (Rintaro)

Aside from Kanon, who had just returned home, Rei, who had been eating and
drinking a lot of things earlier, wanted a refill was somewhat out of place.

To be frank, it's a little late for that.

"It can't be helped......." (Rintaro)

But I'm still happy to hear they praise that something I put so much time and
effort into is delicious.

With a wry smile on my face, I make lemon squash once again.

"Ah, I made it based on the default recipe for now, but if you want to make any
adjustments, feel free to use the contents of the jar. You can try making the taste
a bit stronger or even add the carbonated water to make it stronger." (Rintaro)

"Then I'll add a teaspoon more of it!" (Kanon)

After handing her a spoon to put the honey in, I'm surprised.

Next to Kanon, who is adding the honey in high spirits, I find Rei gulping down
the lemon squash with the same momentum as before.

Seriously, what the heck with this lass' stomach dimension? It's too big.

"......*Burp*." (Rei)

"H-hey!? Is it appropriate for idols to burp!? Have some self-awareness! Self-

awareness!" (Kanon)

"I'm sorry. I let my guard down." (Rei)

"Well, it's like the fizz in carbonated drinks just escape...... You're going to give
such an analogy, right?" (Kanon) (PTW/N: this part is hard)

"That's your exaggerated interpretation. Kanon was bombing." (Rei) (PTW/N:

this as well)
"I wasn't trying to be funny!" (Kanon)

She is a girl who perfectly suits the voice of "Grrrr!" no matter what.

"Even you don't like women who burp in front of you, right, Rintaro?" (Kanon)

"Huh? ......No, I don't mind. It's normal for women to burp and fart, right? So, it's
okay." (Rintaro)

"Idiot! Idols don't burp! They don't even go to the bathroom!" (Kanon)

"Which era are you come from?" (Rintaro)

I can't help but laugh at Kanon, who starts talking like a troublesome old-
fashioned fan.

I have to say that she has a high level of professionalism, but it'll be nice if she
can loosen up at least a little bit in a situation like this.

Well, it's not my place to say that.

"Anyway! Rei, be a little more careful! Your selling point is your mysterious
beauty, and if you start burping, you'll lose all your fans at once!" (Kanon)

"......You may be right. I'll be more careful." (Rei)

"Good!" (Kanon)

Kanon nods in a grand manner to her response and then sips on her newly made
lemon squash.

She is, after all, the most serious person in terms of work.

Normally, Kanon is a noisy and teasable character, but if you ask who is the
most respected person in MilleSta, her name will most likely be mentioned.

"Oh, speaking of which, Rintaro. I heard you've been practicing an instrument

recently?" (Kanon)

"Hmm? Yeah, I agreed to help out a little with the festival. I'm going to play bass
in a three-piece band." (Rintaro)
"Hmm......." (Kanon)

"Is there a problem with that?" (Rintaro)

"No, if you don't mind, how about practicing with us?" (Kanon)

"Practicing with you...... you mean, in a band?" (Rintaro)

"That's what I mean." (Kanon)

Kanon glances at Rei and ruffles her head.

"Au......" (Rei)

"We were discussing of trying it as a hobby between Mia and me, but this girl
wasn't enthusiastic at all about it." (Kanon)

"Because...... I prefer singing to playing instruments." (Rei)

"Well, that itself is not a problem. We didn't want to force anything either. The
discussion ended when Rei said she wouldn't play the bass, but I thought if you
could play the bass, this girl would only have to sing, so we brought this up
again." (Kanon)

As she says so, Kanon gives me a somewhat expectant look.

"...... From what you just said, I can deduce you and Mia have experience with
musical instruments, can't I?" (Rintaro)

"I've never played in front of an audience, though. I like to play the guitar, so I
practiced by myself, and Mia played the drums for a while to relieve stress."
(Kanon)

It may be somewhat surprising, but it's not really strange.

Certainly, the sound of the drums feels good, and it's imaginable that the more
skillful you are at playing them, the more exhilarating it feels.

"Are you okay, Rei?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. It seems fun to do something like that together." (Rei)

It seems that Rei is also interested in it.

"This month, we're getting quite a bit more time off because of your school
festival, and if you're willing to cooperate, I'll learn the songs that you're
practicing so we can play together. What do you think of it, Rintaro? I don't
think it's a bad condition." (Kanon)

"...... Yeah. There's no reason for me to refuse either." (Rintaro)

"Then it's settled. I'll let Mia know." (Kanon)

Kanon looks truly happy and immediately pulls out her phone and begins texting
in Line.

A band with three national idols, huh?

Lately, I feel like I've become able to honestly enjoy this situation.

Whether this is a good thing or a bad thing, I still don't know yet.
 Chapter 4: The Preparation for The School Festival

"Hey, could you bring that over here?"

The voice of a classmate echoes through the classroom.

The new semester has started and it has been over ten days since the decision
was made for the school festival performance.

Lately, almost every day after school, we gather in the classroom and prepare for
the school festival.

Although there are some who can't participate because they still have club
activities, there is a unique system of cooperation where, depending on the club
advisor, the club activities will be suspended for a week just before the festival.

While everyone is actively moving around, I sit on the floor and diligently move
the paintbrush soaked in paint.

I am now painting the decorative sign to be used in the classroom.

"As expected of a manga assistant. You're efficient at painting." (Yukio)

"Huh, rather, I've been doing a lot of beta coloring, so I'm better at this kind of
thing." (Rintaro)

With Yukio supporting the sign, I paint carefully, making sure not to go over the
lines.

I quite enjoy this kind of work.

The progress is straightforward and the results are clear, so I don't get bored
doing it.

"But still... he seems busy, doesn't he?" (Yukio)

"Huh? Yeah, he's on the executive committee after all." (Rintaro)

Glancing at the hallway, I catch a glimpse of Kakihara talking with students

from another class and upperclassmen.

Because he is truly exceptional, people around him come to rely on him.

Even though he's only a sophomore, Kakihara always seems to be at the center
of the conversation.

Even the seniors come to him for advice, so his skills must be remarkable.

After giving instructions to a few people, Kakihara walks away quickly, holding
some documents.

I must say, he's too disciplined, to follow the rule of not running in the hallway,
even when he's busy.

"It's quite something to be too outstanding." (Yukio)

"Yeah. But he's been looking tired lately, and honestly, that worried me."
(Rintaro)

Although people around him may not notice, there is a hint of exhaustion on
Kakihara's face.

When I asked him if there was anything I could do to help, hoping to reduce the
burden on him if possible, Kakihara himself insisted saying "I'm fine".

Since I don't really understand the responsibilities of being on the school festival
executive committee, I can't just interfere without permission.

I hope I can find a way to help him before he reaches his limit――――

"Since Nikaido-san is here, it probably won't escalate into something serious.

For now, let's focus on our own work." (Yukio)

"......Yeah, you're right." (Rintaro)

After that, we decided to immerse ourselves in making the signboards.

As we are doing that, about an hour had passed.

"I told you that we also have things we need to do, didn't I?!"

"You're being unfair by making excuses and not helping at all!"

A voice of anger can be heard from the hallway.

The classroom falls silent, and several people peek their heads out into the
hallway, curious about what is happening.

Curious as well, Yukiho and I quietly look into the hallway.

There, we witness a group of boys and girls from a different class, pided into two
groups, glaring at each other.

"Ah, youth." (Yukio)

"Yeah, youth indeed." (Rintaro)

We casually observe their situation, thinking it has nothing to do with us.

The girl at the front is probably a member of the school festival executive
committee. She has the same documents that Kashihara has earlier.

And the boy she's arguing with is probably the sophomore ace of the baseball
club.

The seniors retired since the summer, and he had become the captain or
something like that.

By comparing their voices from earlier and their respective positions, it's easy to
understand the cause of their dispute.

The committee girl wanted more help with the school festival preparations,
while the baseball club wanted to focus more on practice as a new team.

It seems that the baseball club had lost in a close match during the summer
tournament and was burning with enthusiasm for the upcoming year.

Both positions are understandable, but......

"What are you guys doing?" (Yuusuke)

Kakihara returns to the scene of the conflict and raises his voice.

He intervenes between the two and creates some distance.

"Why are you fighting?" (Yuusuke)

""Because this guy is......""

From each person's perspective, the other was at fault. Well, that's natural.

Having somewhat understood the situation, Kakihara clenches his molars and
sighs.

"Sigh... As a member of the baseball club, you want to do more club activities,
and as a class, you want him to dedicate more time to preparations. That's what
this is about, right?" (Yuusuke)

In response to Kakihara's question, each party nods.

"You understand that you two have each standpoint, don't you?" (Yuusuke)

""...""

"But do you also understand that there are times when compromises have to be
made?" (Yuusuke)

Both remain silent as they listen to Kakihara's words.

What they need at that moment is time to calm down.

It's not like they hate each other.

If possible, neither of them wanted to use strong words. It should be that way.

"Put yourself in the other person's shoes and try to think." (Yuusuke)

The two look at each other awkwardly.

Then they seemed to achieve some kind of understanding about each other.
"...I'm sorry. The club is also important. I've always wanted you to put "club
activities" aside, but that's just how committed you are to it, isn't it?"

"I'm sorry too...... I mean, you also want to make the school festival a success as
an executive committee member. We were thinking the same thing."

The executive committee member who wanted to make the cultural festival a
success and the baseball club captain who had to lead the members to advance in
the next year.

Indeed, their standpoints as leaders were the same.

"Starting tomorrow, we'll reduce the practice time a bit. When it comes to
carrying heavy things or things like that, don't hesitate to ask us for help."

"Understood. I'll do that!"

The tense atmosphere in the hallway eases.

Kakihara lets out a sigh of relief, understanding that the matter has been
resolved.

"Thank you, Kakihara. I was a little too preoccupied with myself."

"I'm glad you guys are able to reconcile. Well then, I'll take my leave......"
(Yuusuke)

Saying that, Kakihara leaves the scene, walking quickly as if he were busy.

Unbeknownst to them, the onlookers have returned to their usual tasks, and time
begins to flow as if nothing had happened.

"Whoa, Kakihara-kun is amazing after all." (Yukio)

I nod in agreement with Yukio's words.

I guess you could call him charismatic. I feel that his words can easily reach
many people.

Every word he says is persuasive.

(There's no way he's unpopular...)

Because he is excellent, there are girls who send warm gazes to his departing
back even now.

Yes, there's no way he's unpopular.

And yet, despite that――――.

"Ah, Shidou-kun! Have you seen Kakihara-kun?" (Azusa)

"......Aah, Nikaido-san. If it's Yuusuke-kun, he walked over there." (Rintaro)

"I see, thank you." (Azusa)

Why does this person always overlook all of his good points?

It's almost impressive.

With just this one girl, she can turn the guy named Kakihara Yuusuke, who
seems to have been born with all fortune, into an unfortunate character.

◇◆◇◆

After seeing Nikaido leave the classroom to look for Kakihara, Yukio and I
continued making the signboard.

After about an hour of concentrating on our work, a girl who has been working
elsewhere calls out to someone in the classroom.

"Sorry! Is there anyone who can go throw away the cardboards?"

Looking there, I notice that there are cardboard remnants used for carrying
materials and decorations piled up in a corner of the classroom.

Certainly, it's becoming quite obstructive.

"...Oh, are you going to take care of that, Rintaro?" (Yukio)

"Yeah, I am. I'm feeling a bit stiff, so I'll go for a change of pace." (Rintaro)
"Okay. Then I'll continue here." (Yukio)

"Yeah, thanks. For the trouble, I'll buy you a drink on my way back." (Rintaro)

"Oh, then I'll ask for something carbonated." (Yukio)

"Got it." (Rintaro)

I stand up and approach the girl who has called out.

"I'll take care of it. Is it okay to dispose of them behind the school building?"
(Rintaro)

"Ah, thank you, Shidou-kun! Yeah, there's a place to throw it away behind the
school building. There might be things that other classes have thrown away, so it
should be easy to find."

"Understood." (Rintaro)

I bundle up the piled-up cardboard with duct tape to some extent and lift it up.

Even though it's just cardboard, it becomes quite heavy when there's this much.

And because it's quite bulky, it might be a bit difficult for the girl to carry.

"Heave-ho..." (Rintaro)

I carry the cardboard on my shoulder and head towards the back of the school
building.

As she has described, there's indeed a designated area where cardboard and other
items have been discarded.

It's easy to spot, which is convenient.

After tossing the cardboard onto the trash pile, I dust off my hands and turn my
heel to walk away.

However, when I look ahead, I notice a familiar face and can't help but stop in
my tracks.
"Otosaki, did the agency tell you not to date guys after all?"

"Huh? ......Well, they haven't explicitly told me that." (Rei)

There, leaning against the wall of the school building, is Rei. In front of her
stood a tall, blond-haired guy.

I vaguely remember him as someone from Class B, named Kinjou or something

like that.

If I have to describe him more precisely, he's the kind of "a popular guy
wannabe" who hung out with the suchlike people, acted like they were the
coolest, and were always shouting and making a big fuss.

His catchphrase is "Isn't it f*cking awesome?".

――――Sorry, that's a bit biased.

To be honest, I don't know him well enough to know his catchphrase. However,
you probably have a rough idea of what kind of person he is.

Incidentally, when two blondes stand next to each other, it is a bit dazzling.

Although I think Rei's hair color is more beautiful.

Anyway, they don't seem to notice me at the moment.

So this is my chance to quietly slip away.

"Hey, how about secretly dating me?"

The moment I hear those words, I instinctively hide behind the pile of trash.

What the h*ll is that idiot thinking?

(And why did I even hide...?)

This situation... It would have been much better to leave right away, as it might
have led to an unexpectedly good outcome, but I ended up staying, unable to
move.
Who the h*ll would want to witness someone else's confession scene?

Besides, who would have thought that it would be her――――

"I mean, I recently became a model, right? I've even got contact information for
celebrities now. This is a straight path to success, isn't it? If you date me, you'll
definitely benefit in the future."

"..." (Rei)

"School festival is coming up, right? Let's go around together. It'll be okay even
if we get caught, won't it? I mean, if the other person is me, everyone will
understand."

"I understand what you're saying, but I'm sorry. I can't date you." (Rei)

"......Huh? What?"

A deep furrow appears on Kinjou's forehead.

"You know, aren't you getting a bit ahead of yourself? You may be an idol, but
you're just a girl, you know? Why don't you just follow my word obediently?"

"I've said it multiple times, but I'm sorry. I can't date you, and I don't want to."
(Rei)

"......Are you being serious?"

Rei nods without hesitation in response to Kinjou's words. In the face of her
resolute attitude, he clicks his tongue.

"Tch... You'll regret this for sure."

It's a rather petty parting remark.

Since it didn't escalate to a big incident, I pat my chest and let out a sigh of
relief.

I had thought I would have to intervene somehow, but it was a relief that
everything ended peacefully.
However, despite this relief, I can't shake the sense that something is still
bothering me.

――――Anyway, I can't linger like this forever.

As I'm about to step out from behind the trash pile, Rei, who senses my
presence, turns her gaze toward me.

"Rintaro, why are you here?" (Rei)

"I came to throw away some garbage, and then suddenly a confession scene
unfolded right in front of me. So I couldn't leave." (Rintaro)

"Sorry about that." (Rei)

"No need to apologize...... Did Kinjou call you out?" (Rintaro)

"Yes. He said he wanted to talk, and when I followed him, he suddenly asked me
out." (Rei)

Rei recounts the events calmly, without any signs of upset.

It seems like she had grown accustomed to such situations somehow.

"Even after becoming an idol, things like this still happen, huh." (Rintaro)

"It's not that many, but it hasn't gone away. Some people say it's for making
memories, and there are also some people like the one earlier who have some
strange confidence. Honestly, it's a bit of a nuisance." (Rei)

There's no sign of excitement or any such emotion, and Rei has a somewhat tired
expression.

"Well, I'm glad you didn't fall for some weird guy. Otherwise, my efforts of
holding back for you girls' dreams would have been in vain." (Rintaro)

"What do you mean?" (Rei)

"Huh? What do I mean......" (Rintaro)

――――What do I mean, I wonder?

I tilt my head and reconsider my words.

Am I holding something back?

I feel like I have a crack in a tank where I have been storing something away,
and that something is starting to leak out, but I can't quite grasp it.

I can't afford to ignore this feeling.

With that unsettling premonition in mind, I shake my head and shift my focus
away.

"Everyone is probably still preparing, so let's head back. It would be

troublesome if we were seen slacking off." (Rintaro)

"......Mm, okay." (Rei)

Rei offers a faint smile and walks alongside me.

"By the way, Rintaro, have you ever been confessed to before?" (Rei)

"Huh? Hmm...... Well, it's not like I've never been, but I guess you could say it's
happened once." (Rintaro)

"What do you mean?" (Rei)

"Let's see, if you include a confession from kindergarten, then yes. if you
exclude it, then there hadn't been any." (Rintaro)

I can't exactly brag about confessions from when I was five or six years old. It
was undoubtedly an expression of genuine feelings, but I think it was quite
different from the emotions that high school students experienced.

So, I didn't really count it.

But I'm not disparaging it either.

"When I was in kindergarten, there was a girl who really liked me. She said she
wanted to marry me when we were older." (Rintaro)

"And what did you respond?" (Rei)

"Hmm? Ah...... I mean, I understood that it was impossible, so I think I told her
it would be okay if we were boyfriend and girlfriend. After that, we graduated,
and we went to different schools. We haven't seen each other in over ten years
now." (Rintaro)

It was the kind of cute puppy love that young children might experience.
Thinking back on those hazy memories, I can't help but feel a little warmth.

"If my memory serves right, her name was Yuzu――――Eh, what's with that
face." (Rintaro)

"......It's nothing." (Rei)

I suddenly turn my gaze to Rei, who is wearing an unusual pout, showing her
displeasure.

Her expression is more openly displeasure than when she had watched me and
Kanon goofing around the first time we met with jealous eyes.

But even that expression has a charm of its own, and it makes me smile a bit.

"Was it boring to you? That story." (Rintaro)

"It wasn't a story I particularly wanted to hear." (Rei)

"I see. Then please just forget about it." (Rintaro)

"...I'm lying. I'm not so childish as to dislike that kind of story." (Rei)

"Is that so? Then let's leave it at that." (Rintaro)

I decided that it was a good thing the conversation ended here.

If she delves any deeper into the story, I might start recalling more about that
childhood story.

(First love, huh...)

The person who fits that description best would undoubtedly be that girl from
kindergarten.

Even though I have no romantic feelings for her right now, I can't help but wish
that she's out there somewhere, living a happy life.

◇◆◇◆

Several days have passed since I witnessed Rei being confessed to.

Today, exactly one week before the cultural festival, I stand before a few of my
classmates in the home economics room.

"So, Shidou-kun, can you teach us how to make transparent warabimochi?"

(Azusa)

"Yeah, I'll give it a try, but I can't guarantee it'll be easy to understand." (Rintaro)

I give a feigned modest smile in response to Nikaido and look down at the
ingredients in front of me.

Potato starch, mineral water, sugar, ice, soybean flour, and brown sugar syrup.

With these ingredients, we have everything we need.

"First, put the potato starch, sugar, and water in a pot in the specified amounts
and mix them over low heat." (Rintaro)

I'm demonstrating my instructions, putting the ingredients into the pot and
setting the stove to low heat.

"After stirring over low heat for a while, the mixture will gradually become
transparent, at which point you don't need to heat it anymore. Place it on a damp
cloth and continue stirring for a while." (Rintaro)
Being careful not to get burned, I stir the mixture, and the gooey liquid gradually
transforms into a solid.

Once it reaches that stage, the final steps are easy.

"Cut the solidified mixture into bite-sized pieces, place them on paper plates,
sprinkle soybean flour over them, and drizzle brown sugar syrup on top. That's
how you complete the transparent warabimochi-like dessert." (Rintaro)

""WHOA...""

The students in charge of the kitchen, including Nikaido, express their

amazement.

It's tasting time, each of them picking up the paper plates with warabimochi and
eating them with toothpicks.

"It's delicious!" (Azusa)

"Great...... Well, the cooking itself is quite simple, so I don't think it's too
difficult a task to do. Just be cautious with the heat. Low heat is sufficient, so try
to minimize the risk of accidents by not turning up the heat too high." (Rintaro)

"You're right. As long as we're careful with that, it doesn't seem too difficult."
(Azusa)

With Nikaido seeming satisfied and convinced, I let out a sigh of relief.

While we have other snacks planned for the actual day of the festival, this
transparent warabimochi will likely be the main attraction due to its novelty.

With this, I have been able to contribute to the class to some extent.

"Now, let's make sure to prepare it ourselves the day before and double-check
everything. Can you all go back to your respective tasks for today?" (Azusa)

At Nikaido's call, the classmates who have gathered here return to their
preparations.

I remain in the kitchen, as there are still dishes to be cleaned up. So I pour the
soap onto a sponge and begin washing the pot.

"Shidou-kun, you're really amazing, aren't you?" (Azusa)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

When I'm focused on doing the dishes, I'm unexpectedly addressed by Nikaido,
who has stayed behind for some reason. I can't help but look up.

"Your cooking skills and your kindness... Just having you around makes me feel
so safe." (Azusa)

"Haha, you're giving me too much credit." (Rintaro)

"No, I'm not!" (Azusa)

Nikaido strongly denies my words, nervously fidgeting with her fingertips in

front of her navel.

It gives off an impression of her being embarrassed or shy.

"...Hey, Shidou-kun. If you're okay." (Azusa)

"Hmm?" (Rintaro)

"Would you like to spend time together at the campfire during the closing
party?" (Azusa)

――――Honestly, I have anticipated this topic to come up.

In fact, our school's post-festival closing party includes not only the stage
performances but also a campfire held in the center of the schoolyard.

Though it's called a campfire, it's not like we're going to dance folk dances or
anything.

Teachers bring snacks, and around the campfire, we can also enjoy the stage
performances, so everyone spends the evening as they please.

"Ah, I heard you're going to be on stage, so it's fine afterward, but..." (Azusa)
I lower my gaze to think for a moment.

If I were to decline, it would surely hurt her feelings. Even though I have little
experience in romance, I understand that much.

"......Sorry, there's someone who I want to spend time with." (Rintaro)

Even so, I have an answer already predetermined.

"I see. No, it's okay. I just thought I'd ask." (Azusa)

"Thanks for asking me. I appreciate it." (Rintaro)

"Okay... If there's another chance, maybe you can invite me." (Azusa)

"Sure, I'll keep that in mind." (Rintaro)

Nikaido seems somewhat shocked, hesitating about what to do, and eventually
chooses to leave the scene.

Maybe it would have been better to start with this from the beginning.

I've been lying and evading quite a bit.

While I thought I was being tossed around by them, from Nikaido's perspective,
it was the opposite.

I was the one who was tossing her around.

Finally realizing this, I feel a pang of guilt.

The only saving grace is that we hadn't had a clear conversation about our
relationship.

"Nikaido-san!" (Rintaro)

"Huh?" (Azusa)

I call out to her as she's about to leave the classroom.

Surprised, she turns toward me.

"Take care of Yuusuke-kun, okay?" (Rintaro)

"......? Y-yes, got it." (Azusa)

With a final tilt of her head, she leaves the classroom.

(That was unnecessary meddling...)

I understand that my actions are somewhat intrusive.

However, it just slips out.

I just hope she'll take a look at what Yuusuke is doing, even if it's just a little.

From her perspective, I think she doesn't have any obligation to do that, but I
can't help but want his efforts to be rewarded.

"......Now then." (Rintaro)

Here's where the problem arises.

I had mentioned that I already had someone I wanted to invite, but to be honest, I
hadn't decided on anyone at all.

Refusing without a reason like "I don't want to spend the cultural festival with
you" would be difficult, and it would leave too much of an aftermath, making it
terrifying.

I somehow thought I would spend time with Kashihara and Doumoto after the
performance, and if they had someone else to spend time with, I thought I would
naturally be with Yukio――――.

However, the way I phrased it earlier clearly sounded like I wanted to invite a
girl.

Being seen with a boy would only lead to unnecessary misunderstandings.

"The worst-case scenario would be dressing up Yukio as a girl... No, that's not
good." (Rintaro)

Using Yukio like that won't be fair to him, and I don't want to be misunderstood
as having an interest in cross-dressed Inaba Yukio.

So, what should I do?

(......I can't think of anyone but Rei.)

I hold my head in my hands with my wet hands after finishing washing the
dishes.

If I have to spend special time with someone of the opposite sex, Rei will be the
one.

That's my honest feeling.

But that will be difficult too.

To avoid being seen together by others, I deliberately turned down Rei's

invitation.

I have to think of something clever...

"......Hmm?"

When I'm about to return to my classroom for the time being, my smartphone in
my uniform pocket vibrates.

Looking at the screen, I get a message from the Line group created by Kakihara
and Doumoto.

[Let's meet in front of the station tomorrow at 13.00! Don't forget to bring your
instrument, okay!]

The one who sent it is Doumoto.

Since I have already read it, I immediately reply with "Got it".

Tomorrow is finally the first rehearsal.

Hmm, I have too many things to think about and now, my stomach is starting to
hurt......
 Chapter 5: The Band

"...Heave-phew..." (Rintaro)

I put the bass I had been playing until last night into its case and sling it over my
back.

Today is a day off, and it is the day of the first rehearsal for the band I formed
with Kakihara and Doumoto.

As I step outside the apartment building, I notice that the temperature has
dropped somewhat.

"...It's almost autumn, huh." (Rintaro)

Muttering softly, I can't help but feel a sense of melancholy. I'm grateful for this
weather.

To be honest, the bass is one of the heaviest instruments to carry among portable
ones.

When considering the instrument alone without peripherals, the bass is slightly
heavier than the guitar.

After receiving it, I had been careful not to strain myself while handling it.

Now, as I carry it on my back, I genuinely think it's a good thing that I had
engaged in some physical activity to prevent my body from becoming sluggish.

"Hey! Rintaro! Over here!" (Ryuuji)

"Okay......" (Rintaro)

When I arrived at the station, Kakihara and Doumoto, who had come earlier,
waved to me.
Kakihara, like me, has a guitar strapped to his back, while Doumoto is pulling
some kind of carry-on bag.

"Now that we got ourselves meet up ahead of the appointed time. There's still
some time before our studio reservation, so let's take it easy." (Ryuuji)

"Yeah, got it. ...By the way, what's in that bag of yours, Ryuuji-kun?" (Rintaro)

"Huh? This? I'll show you when we get to the studio." (Ryuuji)

Saying so proudly, Doumoto leads the way.

Following him, I get to one of the slightly dimly lit buildings near the station.

The darkness is partly because many of the buildings here are six stories or
taller, but also because there are many so-called "nighttime establishments"
nearby.

Now is still just past noon, so these places aren't open yet.

I feel somewhat uneasy, but I obediently follow them, and we enter a flashy-
looking door.

"Yo, Manager." (Ryuuji)

"Oh, you're here, you little rascals."

"I'm not a rascal anymore. Anyway, is the setup done?" (Ryuuji)

"It's the usual, isn't it? You're the only one who'd treat me like this, even though
I'm the manager."

Doumoto and a flamboyant man sitting at the counter beyond the door exchange
friendly banter.

It seems like they have a close relationship.

"Are you guys his band members?" (Manager)

"Ah...... yes." (Yuusuke)

In response to the manager's question, Kakihara replies hesitantly.

His attitude makes me wonder.

It seems like he's even less energetic than usual, or rather, his expression lacks its
usual brightness.

It makes me uneasy just watching him.

"Use Studio 5. Do you know how to set up the amps?" (Manager)

"I'll teach them that." (Ryuuji)

"Oh, I see. Then take your time." (Manager)

With a wave of his hand, the manager bid us farewell. Then, we walk through
toward the door marked "Studio 5."

Seeing the thick door, I'm reminded of the time Rei had led me around the office.

Inside, there are large amplifiers to enhance the sound of guitars and basses, a
microphone for vocals, and a neatly arranged drum set.

"The manager is my uncle. He's the reason I started playing drums. I used to play
drums with him sometimes when there were few reservations." (Ryuuji)

"Heeh...... He seems like a nice person." (Rintaro)

"He's not a bad person. Well, he lacks a bit of considerateness, though." (Ryuuji)

As we approach the drum set, Doumoto shares some stories about the manager.

It seems like he has admired him since childhood, and his face lights up with joy
as he speaks.

"All right, guys, let's start with how to use the amps. Yuusuke, this is probably
your first time using a big one, right? It might seem a bit complicated at first, but
once you get the hang of it, it's easy." (Ryuuji)

And so, Doumoto begins his tutorial on how to use the amps.
I have been concerned that I may not be able to use them properly because they
look so rugged, but when I listen to his detailed instructions, it doesn't seem that
difficult.

Things like making sure the volume is set to zero before turning on the power,
and connecting the cord to the instrument first and then to the amp.

As long as I pay attention to these finer details, it seems unlikely that I will break
anything.

"And then... the contents of my bag that Rintaro was curious about, it's this."
(Ryuuji)

Saying that, Doumoto unzips his bag.

"This is my own snare drum. It's not a problem to use the one they have here, but
having your own snare with a custom tuning just gives it a different vibe, you
know?" (Ryuuji)

"Oh... That sounds kinda professional, doesn't it?" (Rintaro)

"Haha, I'm not trying to show off or anything, though." (Ryuuji)

Doumoto cradles the snare drum carefully, then takes a seat on the chair in front
of the bass drum.

From his attitude, it's clear that he truly loves playing the drums.

When it comes to instruments like guitars and basses, even the basic ones will
cost at least tens of thousands if you want something you can use for a while.

I assume snare drums won't be cheap either.

Some people say that love isn't about the price, but for me, the price is often a
quick indicator of how much love someone has for something.

Time, energy, and any finite things expended for the sake of something
demonstrate love. It's something I can't help but envy at times.

"Well then, once we finish tuning, let's give it a shot." (Ryuuji)

With excitement in his eyes, Doumoto hits his own snare drum once.

I can feel my body tingling with anticipation too.

The results of all the solo practice I have done are finally coming together as we
play as a trio.

There's no way I can't be excited about this.

I adjust the tuning of my bass using the pegs on the head and correct any notes
that have gone out of tune with the tuner.

Kakihara, who handles both guitar and vocals, has to adjust the microphone in
addition to tuning the instrument.

Once that's done, we look at each other.

"All right... Shall we start from the count?" (Ryuuji)

Doumoto poises himself with his drumsticks, tapping them to set the tempo.

Following his count, we begin the rehearsal.

The drums maintain the tempo, the bass provides the foundation, and the guitar
and vocals boldly carry the melody.

――――That's the ideal scenario, but I still don't have the skills to support them
properly yet.

Doumoto, who loves playing the drums and practices regularly, is another story.
Kakihara, although not as experienced as Doumoto, is still pretty good,
especially considering he's playing the guitar and singing simultaneously.

(...I shouldn't be thinking about unnecessary things right now.)

I couldn't afford to be impressed.

With my limited skills, my primary focus should be on keeping the tempo.

I can ignore minor mistakes, and in the more complex parts where the music
feels overwhelming, I can simplify them as long as it doesn't significantly impact
the performance.

Desperately, I move my fingers.

Somewhere along the way, I feel that Doumoto is syncing up with my tempo.

He must have noticed that I was struggling with this first rehearsal.

When the drum's rhythm slightly slows down, Kakihara's rhythm naturally
becomes more relaxed.

While the tempo is undoubtedly slower than the original song, I'm surprised that
we managed to avoid turning the performance into a chaotic mess among the
three of us.

(How wonderful... to be so engrossed in something.)

With a bit of breathing room, I turn my gaze to Doumoto.

He meets my eyes and smiles with genuine joy.

I wonder what it feels like to have a hobby at which you can excel to such an
extent.

From the depths of my heart, I envy Doumoto.

――――But what about Kakihara?

Come to think of it, just as I have drawn a line with them, I realize that I don't
really know much about them either.

Is Kakihara enjoying the performance right now?

This guy is singing with his back turned to us...... So, I can't see his expression.

◇◆◇◆

"Are you freaking kidding me!" (Ryuuji)

At that moment, Doumoto's angry voice echoes through the studio.

An awkward atmosphere flows through the studio.

Kakihara, the target of Doumoto's anger, turns to face him with a lost
expression, unlike his usual cheerfulness.

"Rintaro practiced so hard even though it's his first time playing an instrument,
and he's been desperately trying to keep up with us...! And yet, why are you, the
lead player, playing so carelessly?!" (Ryuuji)

"......" (Yuusuke)

――――Indeed.

Although I think that the beginner should not speak up, Kakihara's mistakes
began to be noticeable as the number of rehearsals increased.

Because I was able to keep up with the tempo, it became more noticeable.

Even though over an hour had passed since we entered the studio, it could be
said that most of it was not good practice.

"We're spending time to make your confession a success! If you don't have the
motivation, what are we supposed to do then?" (Ryuuji)

"――――Yeah." (Yuusuke)

"HUUH?" (Ryuuji)

"Even if we practice this much, it'll just become all meaningless if the confession
doesn't succeed!" (Yuusuke)

I've never seen Kakihara raise his voice like this before.

Doumoto also seems surprised by Kakihara's outburst and is visibly shaken.

"......I can't let you waste your time for a confession that won't succeed anyway.
If it's becoming a hassle, you can stop if you want." (Yuusuke)

"You..." (Ryuuji)

"Sorry. I'm heading home for today." (Yuusuke)

While we're dumbfounded, Kakihara puts away his guitar and leaves the studio.

And Doumoto, seeing him off, clenched his fist in frustration.

"......Damn it, he got chickened after we came this far." (Ryuuji)

No, rather than dispirited――――he looks like he's in pain.

"He looked somewhat pale, so he probably wasn't feeling well." (Rintaro)

"...Probably was, or was not I don't know." (Ryuuji)

Anyway, it doesn't seem like we can continue the practice in this atmosphere.

I hate to say it, but... honestly, I don't have a good impression of Kakihara today.

Doumoto isn't really angry about the mistakes themselves.

The problem is his lack of motivation.

Different people may have different opinions on this, but I can't help but feel that
it's strange for us to be more enthusiastic than Kakihara, who came to us seeking
advice on how to get together with Nikaido.

If he's already given up, then we don't have an obligation to cooperate with him
anymore.

"I don't know what he meant by saying that, but let's ask him when we meet at
school next time. Maybe he'll return to normal if he takes a break." (Rintaro)

"......You're probably right." (Ryuuji)

In the end, we call it a day and go home.

I have to say, today is definitely unsatisfying.

In the evening, as the sun begins to set, I walk alone and let out a deep sigh.

I'm no saint or anything, but I just found this situation to be a real pain.

It's different from doing things for Rei and the girls or for Yukio.
In the end, it's difficult to break down the wall once it was built.

"Phew~..." (Rintaro)

I return to the apartment and unlock the door to my room.

Then I noticed that there were three pairs of girls' shoes lined up next to my own
shoes.

As I walk down the hallway with a distant look, I see the familiar figures of
those girls in the living room.

"My, welcome back." (Kanon)

"Just to make sure, this is still my house, right?" (Rintaro)

"What such weird things are you saying? Obviously, this is your house."
(Kanon)

Those three, Kanon, Rei, and Mia, look at me with a gaze questioning if I'm
nuts.

They're all dressed casually and enjoying snacks and carbonated drinks that they
must have bought from somewhere.

"Welcome back, Rintaro-kun. We've been waiting for you." (Mia)

"Me?" (Rintaro)

"Well, for now, we want you to sit down." (Mia)

"Sure, whatever. But first, let me wash my hands and gargle." (Rintaro)

I don't really mind if they are in my house.

I finish washing my hands and gargling in the bathroom and return to the living
room.

"Sorry to keep you waiting. So, what's it?" (Rintaro)

"Rintaro, do you remember the talk we talked about when we were with Kanon
before?" (Rei)

"Oh, that talk about the band, right?" (Rintaro)

I believe it was about practicing together with Kanon playing the guitar, Mia
playing the drums, and Rei doing the vocals.

At that time, Mia hadn't been informed yet――――

"After that, I contacted Mia and she easily agreed." (Kanon)

"Well, it sounds interesting. I occasionally rent a studio to relieve stress by

playing the drums alone, but I've never played with anyone else before." (Mia)

"......That's it. I just wanted to inform you." (Kanon)

I understand most of it.

Doumoto seemed to be having a lot of fun, too, and playing in a band is

definitely a different kind of fun from playing alone.

Of course, it's just a hobby, but both they and I should have taken care of what
we usually need to do, so there's no reason for anyone to complain.

"I get all of it, but couldn't you have just told me with a message on LINE? You
didn't have to come all the way to have a girls' meeting in my room." (Rintaro)

"You are really...... Look, it's that thing." (Kanon)

"What do you mean by that thing?" (Rintaro)

"I mean that thing so it is that thing!" (Kanon)

I see, there doesn't seem to be any particular reason.

I know Rei's schedule, and I know that she has today and tomorrow off.

In other words, they are also off.

Seeing them being lazy like this, it's hard to believe that they are immensely
popular idols.
Their appearance is very good, but it's a matter of attitude.

――――Whatever the talk, I, who tend to be a somewhat fastidious person,

have allowed them to invade my home, and I feel like I'm trusting them too
much.

It's not that it's bad, though.

"Rintaro, do you have a song you're practicing now? Come on, tell me. I'll learn
it for you." (Kanon)

"Wow, that's so cool..."――――I was about to say that, but since it's Kanon, I'll
refrain.

I can't let her get carried away.

After I swallow my words, I let them know the name of the song, and Kanon and
Mia nod in agreement.

"As expected, that's the go-to song for practicing. The structure is
straightforward, and there aren't any particularly difficult parts." (Kanon)

"I may not be perfect, but I understand most of it. We'll be ready by tomorrow."
(Mia)

Wait, tomorrow?

"Ah...... Rintaro, do you have time tomorrow?" (Rei)

"That should be the thing you ask first, Rei." (Rintaro)

"I forgot." (Rei)

Rei's nonchalant response makes me sigh involuntarily.

What would she have done if I had already made plans?

Or did she think I was too laid-back to have plans?

――――Well, she's not wrong though.

Yuzuki-sensei said it's okay if I don't come over often this month because I'll
probably be busy at school, and I'm not hanging out with Yukio every day either.

"But don't we need to reserve a studio for band practice? Is it okay?" (Rintaro)

"Who are you talking to? I just contacted the manager and had the drums and
amp moved to the private studio." (Kanon)

"Ah, you're on a different level." (Rintaro)

According to what I heard, the studio I delivered lunches to the other day turned
out to be a private studio.

I thought Rei was renting it and waiting in line every time, but it seems that it
meant the tenant was the agency.

In other words, that place is the studio rented by "Mille-Feuille Stars" and no one
else uses it――――.

"I heard that other artists build their own personal studios. But it's enough for us
to just rent it, otherwise, we'd just use it as a hangout spot or let it go to waste."
(Kanon)

I guess so.

◇◆◇◆

"Rei, memorize the lyrics. You're okay with it, right?" (Kanon)

"Yeah, okay." (Rei)

The conversation proceeded smoothly, and I'm grateful for the opportunity.

I couldn't have a satisfying rehearsal at the studio today, and I had been wanting
more time to practice with others.

Even if the other person wasn't Kakihara or Doumoto, the experience of playing
music together with someone else would be beneficial.

"But still... There aren't many people like Rintaro who come to the office with
us, right?" (Mia)
"I'm still worried about whether I stand out too much." (Rintaro)

"Haha, if we were seen walking alone together, it might be different, but if it's
with the three of us walking together, we probably just look like people from the
entertainment industry. You just need to be confident." (Mia)

Confident, huh?

Does she really think I, who isn't even a celebrity, can confidently walk
alongside these girls?

Let me say it upfront, it's impossible, not even a bit.

Perhaps she understands my personality well, Mia stifles a chuckle, covering her
mouth.

"......Hey, don't you think Mia and Rintaro are getting too close? Their way of
addressing each other is somehow different." (Kanon)

"They are, I'd like them to keep a bit more distance." (Rei)

Kanon and Rei are muttering something as they look at us.

When they mention the distance, I glance at Mia, and it does seem like there was
less space between us than usual――――or does not.

It's probably just my imagination. It must be just a minor difference.

"Come on, our distance has always been like this. Right, Rintaro-kun?" (Mia)

Saying that, Mia wraps her arm around mine.

When she does that, a soft sensation is transmitted to my upper arm, and my
mind is thrown into disarray.

Dang, why do women smell so good? Even though I have no intention in this,
please stop making me feel dizzy.

"Mia, get away from Rintaro." (Rei)

"Huh? Why? Isn't this just a little bit of skinship?" (Mia)

Why are there sparks flying between Rei and Mia?

Anyway, I don't want unnecessary fights, so I try to pull Mia away with my free
hand――――

"Get away from him." (Rei)

――――That very arm I try to pull Mia away is now entangled by Rei.

The soft sensation that almost drove me insane with just being transmitted to one
arm now doubles.

I seriously can't handle this sensation. Seriously, I can't handle this.

It is said it's better to say important things twice.

"Your philtrum is getting longer, you know." (Kanon) (PTW/N: 鼻の下が伸び

る (hana no shita ga nobiru), [Idiom], lit.: the area below one’s nose gets
longer, meaning: to make a goofy face when seggsually attracted, to have a
l*wd look on one's face, to ogle.)

"It's not. Don't make light of my record of feigning innocence." (Rintaro)

"If you say that, it means you're actually happy, right? After all, philtrum can't
physically get longer, can it?" (Kanon)

That's definitely true.

Thanks to Kanon's comment, seems like I've dug my own grave.

By the way, I'm just holding back with all my might, but I do have the sexual
desires of a high school boy.

I'm trying my best to endure and not cross that line.

I beg you, please stop doing things that easily push me to cross that line.

"Sigh... hey, didn't I tell both of you multiple times not to touch a guy so easily?
Just get away from him already." (Kanon)

At this point, Kanon looks like a goddess of salvation to me.

"If Mia does, I'll do too." (Rei)

"I'll do too if Rei does." (Mia)

Rei and Mia glare at each other without giving in.

Perhaps getting annoyed by their stubborn attitudes, Kanon gives them a fierce
look and chops them both in their heads.

"Cut it out! It's fine to fool around in private, but I won't allow any indecent
behavior!" (Kanon)

""Ouch......"" (Rei, Mia)

As Rei and Mia hold the spots where they were chopped, my arms are finally
freed.

I lift my head to thank Kanon, but she unexpectedly flicks my forehead as if she
has aimed for it.

"Ouch!" (Rintaro)

"You too, you could have forcibly pulled them away if you wanted to. It's a
punishment for being spoony." (Kanon)

"Y-you...!" (Rintaro)

"What, do you have a complaint?" (Kanon)

"...No." (Rintaro)

You're just like a mother――――

As I'm about to say that, I remember my position.

I can't find the words and I unintentionally avert my gaze from Kanon's
questioning stare.

"You're such a weirdo, Rintaro. Come on, you guys need to get your act
together!" (Kanon)

"Kanon's chop still works as usual......" (Mia)

Judging from Mia's words, it seems that they've received her iron-fisted
punishment several times.

Seeing them instantly become obedient, they must've been through situations
like this a few times before.

They both indeed have a tendency to go wild, and Kanon must have gone
through a lot of hard times.

"......Well, let's cut the playtime off. Should we gather at the office tomorrow?"
(Mia)

"Sounds good. Rintaro, you remember the place, right?" (Kanon)

I nod.

I won't easily forget what happened a few months ago.

"Then we'll go ahead and pick you up at the lobby later. Make sure to bring your
instrument, okay?" (Kanon)

"Got it... hmm?" (Rintaro)

Just when I think the conversation is settled, suddenly a rumbling sound comes
from somewhere.

Attracted by the sound, the gaze of me, Mia, and Kanon are drawn towards it.

"――――I'm hungry." (Rei)

Well, I had a feeling that this lass was the culprit.

While we were talking about this and that, it's already about time for dinner.

It's about time for me to fulfill my original role too.

"I'll prepare the dinner. Both of you wanna join too?" (Rintaro)

"Is it alright?" (Kanon)

"It's strange to tell you girls to leave when you're here. And there are enough
ingredients, so you can join us without hesitation." (Rintaro)

"Really? Then I'll take you up on that offer." (Kanon)

I grab an apron and head to the kitchen.

"Ah, by the way, do you girls have any specific food you want to eat?" (Rintaro)

"I'm fine with whatever Rei wants." (Kanon)

"Me too. The one who is the hungriest is probably her." (Mia)

These girls really get along well after all.

The tension from earlier seemed like it could escalate, but it was just playful
banter.

――――Probably.

"Well then, I'll prepare according to what Rei wants, but what do you want to
eat?" (Rintaro)

"I want omelette rice." (Rei)

"Ah, that's easy since it doesn't need much preparation." (Rintaro)

I have chicken thighs ready, and there are still some onions left.

If I mix in carrots and green peppers, we can at least get some vegetables in it.

"Ah, right. Rintaro, can you make a runny omelette rice?" (Rei)
"A runny one?" (Rintaro)

"Yeah, the one that's half-cooked." (Rei)

I'm called from the living room, and when I turn back, Rei walks towards me
and shows me her phone screen.

What is displayed is not a traditional omelette rice that wraps chicken rice, but a
type of omelette rice where the egg is lightly cooked on top of the rice and then
cut open.

"Do you want to eat this?" (Rintaro)

"Oh, sorry. It's not like that. But if you can make it, I wanted to try it." (Rei)

"It's not impossible, but it's not doable today. Making demi-glace sauce takes
quite some time after all." (Rintaro)

"I understand. I'll ask you next time." (Rei)

"Sure." (Rintaro)

After that exchange, I returned to cooking.

(The demi-glace sauce... the demi-glace sauce, huh?)

It's a versatile sauce that can also be used for hamburg steak, so I do want to get
better at making it.

The problem is, the more serious I want to make it, the more I have to buy "red
wine".

I have reservations about buying it as a minor, and even if I can buy it, it'll lower
the credibility of that store.

I've heard that alcoholic beverages for cooking like cooking wine are
expensive――――Hmm.

"Don't you envy that exchange?" (Kanon)

"Yeah. I'm honestly envious." (Mia)

While Rei and I are having our conversation, the other two seem to be talking
about something, but I have no way of knowing as I retreat into the depths of the
kitchen.

◇◆◇◆

Just like yesterday, I carry my bass on my back and leave my house a little later
than the time Kanon had told me.

The weather is clear. Although the temperature is high, it isn't as scorching hot as
the peak of summer.

With the weight of the bass slowing me down a bit, I make my way to their
agency office.

It's within walking distance without needing to take a train, but it's a bit far for
walking, or rather, it's at that perfect distance where it's not too close or too far.

Of course, those three who belong to the agency are being picked up and
dropped off by taxis and such, but that is not the case for me.

I thought that using a bicycle would make it a bit easier, but when I actually tried
it, the bass was too heavy and I couldn't ride it properly.

I could force myself to go, but it's much better to walk than to fall and break the
bass.

By the time I started sweating, I finally arrived at the Fantasista Entertainment

Office, which I hadn't been to in months.

I enter the entrance and go to the reception desk.

The woman who had helped me last time was standing at the reception, making
a startled look on her face when she saw me.

"Could you be Mister Shidou?"

"Huh? Ah, yes, I am." (Rintaro)

"I've been informed about you. Please wait a moment."

Seems like they had already informed the details in advance this time.

The woman in reception makes a phone call and after a while, a familiar red-
haired girl appears from the elevator wearing practice clothes.

"Hey, Rintaro. Right on time." (Kanon)

"Yeah. Thanks for letting the receptionist know." (Rintaro)

I remember being looked at with suspicion last time.

"I've learned to be considerate since Rei picked you up last time. Especially this
time, it's completely private, so we should be more cautious about our
surroundings." (Kanon)

"You really have it together." (Rintaro)

"Yeah. No matter how good you are at singing and dancing, you can't make it as
an idol without thoughtfulness and charm." (Kanon)

And a little bit of cunningness too――――

Saying that, Kanon puts her index finger on her lips and winks at me.

Caught off guard by her cuteness, my heart jumps and I shyly look away.

"Oh my goodness~!? Could it be that this sweet Kanon-chan got you

fascinated?" (Kanon)

"Thank you, Kanon. Your attitude brought me back to my senses." (Rintaro)

"Why!? Why are you being so cold!" (Kanon)

If she just stayed quiet, she would be such a cute girl, but that annoying attitude
of hers ruins everything in an instant.

However, that's fine with me. Totally fine.

I walk down the path I had only taken once before and enter the heavy door of
MilleSta's private studio with Kanon. Inside, two girls wearing exercise clothes
for lessons are sitting and chatting with each other.
"Oh, you're here." (Mia)

"Are you guys done with the setup?" (Kanon)

"Yeah. Mine is all set. Rei's microphone is also set up." (Mia)

When Mia directs her gaze in a certain direction, there are drums and large amps
like in the studio that Doumoto had taken us to.

There is a microphone in the center, and Rei heads towards there.

"Rei, is there any problem with the lyrics?" (Kanon)

"I had one night, so it's no problem." (Rei)

"Alright. Then you also get ready, Rintaro." (Kanon)

Prompted by Kanon, I approach the amp.

It is not much different from the one I used in the studio yesterday.

Following the startup instructions taught by Doumoto faithfully, I connect the

bass.

――――But.

"Kanon, aren't you more excited than usual?" (Rintaro)

"Well, of course! I've always wanted to play with someone like this!" (Kanon)

Kanon has the brightest smile on her face as she plays her guitar. Maybe it is
because she said words similar to Doumoto's, I feel closer to Kanon than usual.

"A~, a~." (Rei)

Rei's voice echoes through the studio via the microphone. It is a voice that I
should be used to hearing. But just by passing through a single machine, her
voice suddenly becomes closer to the atmosphere of a live performance.

It goes without saying that my heart, which is captivated by that moment, jumps
a beat at such a simple thing.
"Yeah, I'm ready anytime." (Rei)

"......Okay. Are you guys ready too?" (Kanon)

I nod in response to Kanon's question, and Mia hits the drums dynamically to
indicate that we can start anytime.

"Alright, then, Mia! On your count!" (Kanon)

Mia taps her sticks, counting the beginning of the song.

The intro of this song starts with the vocals coming in slightly faster, followed
by the guitar.

In other words, at the starting point, the main focus is on Rei and Kanon.

Rei sings, and Kanon plays the guitar.

As for Kakihara, who has to do both singing and playing guitar, it is a bit risky,
but since they pided the roles, it's not a problem for them.

Moreover――――they are incredibly skilled.

(Of course, that's obvious...)

Kanon's background is like Doumoto's.

Due to practicing instruments as a hobby for a long time, it's natural for her to
play smoothly like this.

And as for Rei, she is a professional singer.

She flawlessly handles this song that was originally sung by a male singer.

I can't help but wonder where she can produce such a low tone, even though her
voice is usually somewhat fluffy and bell-like.

(Well, this isn't the time to be drowned in thoughts.)

Once their duet is over, the A melody will begin from here.
Both Mia and I will join in from here.

Whether it's because of the experience of playing with others even once, I'm able
to join in more smoothly than yesterday.

Mia's performance is undeniably skilled, even from an amateur's perspective.

While Doumoto's drums had strength and power, her drums exude a precision
that never falters.

Each beat is exact, or well, that's what an amateur like me will say.

But even with my untrained ears, I can sense that.

(――――This is fun.)

As the song progresses, that feeling wells up from the depths of my heart.

Even though I only have a moderate level of skill to just keep up, playing with
someone else is so much fun.

It must be fun.

"......" (Rintaro)

As I feel the last chorus approaching, I clench my back teeth.

Because playing with these girls is so fun, I regret missing out on that rehearsal
with Kakihara and Doumoto even more.

Even then, I'm sure I would have enjoyed it.

Unlike work or study, we were just indulging in our hobbies.

There's no point in having a hobby if we're not having fun.

As the last chorus begins, I decide to play more intensely than before.

After all, this is just a practice. It might be better if I play this intensely so that I
won't panic during the actual performance.
But as I play intensely, I see Kanon, who is nearby, smirk.

And at the same time――――the momentum of her guitar playing intensifies.

I think that it's because I intensified my momentum that Kanon follows, and that
makes me happy.

And as we get more intense, the momentum of Mia and Rei naturally increases.

Ultimately, we race through this song at its peak excitement.

"You did well, Rintaro. I never expected you to lead us from the very
beginning." (Kanon)

Well, you made a lot of mistakes though――――

Adding that, Kanon laughs teasingly.

Indeed, I should reflect on making several mistakes, even after playing with such
intensity.

To put it bluntly, it is no exaggeration to say that I misled myself with my

momentum.

But thanks to that, I feel like something snapped.

"...Thanks, Kanon." (Rintaro)

"Huh? W-what... that's so unlike you." (Kanon)

It's rude to say it's unlike me just because I sincerely thanked her.

Well, she doesn't know all the circumstances I have, so I guess it can't be helped.

"Hmm, I don't really get it, but let's do it again! This time, a bit faster tempo! I
know that you slowed down a bit to pamper Rintaro! Mia!" (Kanon)

"Oh, you noticed?" (Mia)

"Of course. But it's fine, but now that we know that Rintaro is unexpectedly
'capable' to keep up, so it'll be okay, right?" (Kanon)
"You're right. I'll play at a normal tempo next." (Mia)

I hear them talking like that, but I don't feel much sense of crisis.

Because I played with all my might once, I feel like my fingers move better than
usual now.

――――Tomorrow, I'll talk to Kakihara at school.

Confession or whatever, that doesn't matter.

Anyway, I'll have words with Kakihara so that he can have fun performing with
us.
 Chapter 6: Honest Intention

The day after practicing in the studio with Rei and the girls.

I go to the school, with the determination to talk to Kakihara and Doumoto.

However――――

"Huh, he hasn't come?" (Rintaro)

"Yeah, I'm a little worried because there hasn't been any contact from him."
(Ryuuji)

I go to check with Doumoto since Kakihara wasn't in the classroom, but all I find
out is that he's apparently absent today.

Neither Nikaido nor Nogi seem to know why, and they have the same worried
expression as Doumoto.

"Yusuke, is he okay? His parents are overseas, right? If he's not in good shape, it
could be really bad if he doesn't have anyone to take care of him......" (Ryuuji)

Come to think of it, I heard something like that during the tripartite meeting.

If he's feeling unwell, there's a possibility that he's in a situation where he can't
expect help from anyone.

"Rintaro, can you keep me company after school for a bit?" (Ryuuji)

"Sure. You're going to visit him, right?" (Rintaro)

"Yeah. He's not a frail guy, but just in case something happens......" (Ryuuji)

Maybe there's another reason why he's absent.

But I remember his recent condition being somewhat strange.

His complexion was off, and his mental state seemed to be down.

With these factors in place, there's a high possibility that he's unwell after all.

"Even if I can't help with today's preparations, is everything okay with you,
Nikaido-san?"

"Yeah. Everyone's moving proactively, so we have some leeway for a day. Sorry
for leaving Kakihara-kun to you. Since he's not here, I have to take charge......"
(Azusa)

If Kakihara, who is a member of the school festival executive committee, is

absent, it's inevitable that Nikaido, who is his assistant, will have to take charge
of coordinating everyone.

Since the preparations for the festival have to proceed steadily, it'll be a problem
if she were to go visit him as well.

"I'll also help Azu-rin today. If it turns out that he's really unwell, I don't think
it's a good idea to visit him in a large group. And if we stay at school, there
might be something we can do too." (Honoka)

"Okay, that sounds good. Then, Rintaro and I will stop by the pharmacy before
going to Yuusuke's house." (Ryuuji)

I nod in response to Doumoto's words.

Buying sports drinks and medicine shouldn't be a waste if we're going to visit
him.

After the conversation is settled, the first-period chime rings.

We exchange brief greetings and return to our seats.

When I have time to think alone during class, an inexplicable anxiety well up
inside me.

(I hope he doesn't end up like this on the D-day of the school festival...)
I open my left palm and look at my fingertips.

Although it's only been about a month, calluses have formed that can be seen as
proof of practicing the bass every day.

The corn I got on the first day burst the next day, and there were times when it
bled.

My time, accumulated in a short period, is packed in here.

Apparently, I feel terrible that all this time I've spent is going to waste.

◇◆◇

I explain the situation in detail to Yukio, who has been working on the school
festival preparations, and then I leave the school with Doumoto.

Following his lead, we board a train and get off at the fifth station.

It's a place I've walked to several times, being close to the school station. But my
memory of the area is not enough to say that I'm familiar with it, and of course, I
don't know Kakihara's house, so I'll rely on Doumoto here.

"...Here we are. It's still as huge as ever." (Ryuuji)

"O-oh......" (Rintaro)

We walked through the residential area for about five minutes.

At the place of Doumoto pointed to, and there stood a three-story mansion.

Compared to the surrounding houses, it was noticeably larger.

It seems like both of his parents working abroad is no joke.

We open the lattice gate that is as tall as our shoulders and stand in front of the
front door.

When Doumoto presses the intercom installed next to the door, we hear the
chime ring from inside the house.
However, even after waiting for a while, no one comes out.

"......Is he not home?" (Ryuuji)

"If he's unwell, there's a high chance he's in bed." (Rintaro)

"Sigh... Well, there's no helping it then." (Ryuuji)

Doumoto takes out a key from his bag, inserts it into the front door keyhole, and
turns it.

With a clicking sound, the front door is easily unlocked.

"I know Yuusuke's mom as well. They trust him, but they gave me the spare key
just in case he collapses alone at home. I guess this is the time when it comes in
handy." (Ryuuji)

Doumoto opens the door and we enter the house.

I had expected that a single boy living in such a mansion would have at least
some mess, but it's surprisingly well-organized, to the extent that it defies my
expectations.

According to Doumoto, a hired housekeeper-like person came once a week to

clean up.

"This is Yuusuke's room." (Ryuuji)

We went upstairs and Doumoto pointed to the door at the end of the corridor.

By the way, I have already confirmed Kakihara's shoes at the entrance, so I know
he is inside the house.

"Hey, Yuusuke! Are you there?" (Ryuuji)

Doumoto calls him out with a slightly louder voice into the room, and then there
is a rustling movement from inside.

"Hmm... Ryuuji, huh?" (Yuusuke)

"Yeah. Can I come in?" (Ryuuji)

"Yeah... Sure." (Yuusuke)

The voice from inside the room is definitely Kakihara's, but his usual spirit and
cheerfulness are nowhere to be found.

This is clearly that he's not in good condition.

"Well, I'm coming in then." (Ryuuji)

Upon entering the room, a bed, a study desk, a TV, and a computer placed on a
desk come into view.

Overall, it's tidy, and there isn't much of a masculine smell.

"I see you're here too Rintaro ...... sorry I didn't contact you guys." (Yuusuke)

"It's okay, it can't be helped right? That... are you feeling okay now?" (Ryuuji)

"I managed to catch a taxi first thing in the morning and had myself checked at
the hospital, so it's not a serious condition. They said it's probably just
accumulated fatigue, no specific illness. I've been so busy, after all." (Yuusuke)

Fatigue, huh.

It seems that what I had feared before had come true.

"With all the stuff you've been juggling, it's no wonder your body gave out."
(Ryuuji)

As Doumoto looks at the printouts on the study desk, he mutters.

Those printouts were filled with details about the class budget and schedule.

"Yeah... the seniors asked if we could cut down the budget a bit, so I've been
thinking about where we can make cuts. Especially the costumes were going to
be expensive, so I called the vendors and tried to negotiate with them...... Haha, I
wish I could have done better." (Yuusuke)

Kakiwara tells this with a somewhat apologetic expression.

In response, Doumoto makes a bitter face, clenches his fist tightly, and lowers
his head.

"Yuusuke... I'm sorry for yelling at you that time. I have forgotten that you've
been working really hard in the committee." (Ryuuji)

Accepting the sincere apology, Kakihara scratches his cheek, looking

embarrassed.

"Same here, I'm sorry...... No matter how tired I was, I shouldn't have shown
such a throwaway attitude to you guys, who have been helping me." (Yuusuke)

But――――

Pausing, Kakihara twists his expression in frustration.

"I'm anxious. Even though you've been helping me so much, if I confess and get
rejected, I'll feel incredibly sorry――――No, to be more honest, I think I'm
more scared of that happening." (Yuusuke)

Trying to downplay his anxiety with a chuckle, the Kakihara now doesn't seem
like the super extrovert person I imagined, but just a shy boy.

◇◆◇◆

"…Well, maybe I should just stop with the confessions." (Yuusuke)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

Hearing Kakihara say that, that word just slips out of my mouth.

The two of them look at me in surprise.

"You're pressured because you're so determined to confess, why not think about
confessing after standing on stage? It's not too late, right?" (Rintaro)

Whether Kakihara is considering confessing to Nikaido or not, no one besides us

would know.

If you're scared to confess, just don't do it.

If you've mustered up the courage to overcome your fear, then just go ahead and
do it.

It's all Kakihara's choice.

Confessing in the first place isn't something he "has to" do, after all.

"…...Yeah, that might be true. Confessing or things like that shouldn't be done
out of obligation." (Ryuuji)

With Doumoto's agreement in place, I look at Kakihara.

He has a relieved expression, as if a weight had been lifted off his shoulders.

"I see… Yeah, you're probably right. There might have been some strange sense
of obligation. Maybe because of that, I wasn't sure if I really liked Azusa or not."
(Yuusuke)

I think it's a common story for people to be crushed by a sense of obligation and
forget their original purpose.

Kakihara's feelings for Nikaido are genuine. But the busyness and pressure had
deprived him of the luxury to enjoy those feelings to the fullest.

And now, it's time for me to speak my mind.

"......I've finally realized how much fun it is to play music with someone else.
That's why I want the three of us to have a proper performance together."
(Rintaro)

That's why――――.

"Please don't say that it's okay to stop." (Rintaro)

"…...!" (Yuusuke)

This is my true feelings, and it's selfish.

It took quite a bit of courage for me to express my true feelings to them for the
first time.

The trigger that gave me the courage was undoubtedly the practice with Rei and
the girls yesterday.

Because that time was just so much fun, I wanted to spend similar time with
these two.

"Just enjoying the stage isn't enough. For the confession...... Let's just forget
about it for now." (Rintaro)

"…Rintaro." (Yuusuke)

"We've worked so hard to get this far, so I don't think we'll be punished for
having a bit of fun from now on." (Rintaro)

"――――Yeah, you might be right." (Yuusuke)

I hope this will provide some comfort, but judging by the smile he puts on his
face in front of me, it seems to have a significant effect.

In my heart, I express my gratitude to Kanon, who had invited me to perform

together.

The next time that lass comes over, I'll treat her an apple pie.

◇◆◇

"Hey! Is Kakihara-kun here?"

A senior suddenly pops into my class, where we are preparing for the school
festival. She seems to be looking for Kakihara-kun, glancing around the
classroom.

"Ah! Nikaido-san! Do you know where Kakihara-kun is?"

"Ah... Kakihara-kun is absent today due to not feeling well." (Azusa)

I had just received a message from Doumoto-kun, so I already knew about his
health condition.

After I relayed the news, the senior's face looked as if she had seen the end of the
world.
"Ah, for real......"

"Umm, What happened?" (Azusa)

The senior, looking troubled, awkwardly began to speak.

"Well, it's just that... we were discussing the budget. Kakihara-kun was so good
at adjusting and calculating, so everyone relied on him."

I see.

It seems like she thinks Kakihara-kun fell ill because they relied on him too
much.

If that's the case, I can understand why she's feeling apologetic.

"......Well, even though he's outstanding, it's not right to rely on underclassmen
too much. Instead of using exams as an excuse, we should try to handle things
on our own a bit more."

Saying that, the senior leaves the classroom.

I always thought he was amazing, but seeing even the senior relying on him, I
realize that Kakihara-kun really isn't just an ordinary person.

And when my friend is being praised by others, I feel a little proud too.

"Azurin! Come over here for a sec!" (Honoka)

"Huh...? What's up?" (Azusa)

I'm suddenly called by Honoka, so I move to a corner of the classroom.

There, two classmates look troubled and seem relieved to see me.

"They're in charge of shopping, but it seems like the budget doesn't quite match
with what we need to buy on the day. We have to either increase the budget or
cut down on the materials cost. What should we do?" (Honoka)

"W-What? The budget doesn't match?" (Azusa)

I'm in trouble.

I had never been involved in budget discussions at all, so I had no idea of what
to do.

I can't give careless instructions about money, which is such an important aspect.
If only I could come up with a clever solution...

"......Sorry, I haven't been involved in those discussions. I'll ask when Kakihara-
kun returns, so can you wait until then?" (Azusa)

"Y-yeah...... Sorry, we're kind of in a hurry."

The only thing I could do was to postpone the problem.

I have to report to the teacher about the budget we are going to use in the class,
so I can't really afford to be leisurely.

It's indescribably frustrating that I have no choice but to wait for Kakihara-kun's
return here.

"Nikaido! Where can I find the materials for the advertising signboard?"

As I depart from them, a boy, panting and sweating, rushes towards me.

"What? Ah, um... I think they might be in the multipurpose room." (Azusa)

"I see! Thanks!"

The boy, who seemed to be in a hurry, ran down the corridor as he thanked.

The warning not to run in the hallway had already fallen on deaf ears, and in no
time, his back disappeared from sight.

"Nikaido-san! We've run out of paint, where can we get some?"

"Um... I think you can find it in the gym storage room." (Azusa)

"Thank you!"

Once the girl asking about the paint had left, the homeroom teacher, Harukawa-
sensei, peeked into the classroom.

"Kakihara-ku――――oh, right, he's absent today. Nikaido-san! Can you come

here for a moment?" (Harukawa-sensei)

"Oh, yes! What is it?" (Azusa)

"We have a meeting for the School Festival Executive Committee, and I want
you to attend. Just listen to what we have to say for now." (Harukawa-sensei)

Told that all I have to do is take notes, I walk behind the teacher to the meeting
place.

When I got into the room, most of the class had already gathered there.

Then all eyes turn towards me.

"Ah, Harukawa-sensei. Is Kakihara not coming today?"

"Huh? Yeah, he is... Is there a problem?" (Harukawa-sensei)

"Ah, no... We always relied on Kakihara-kun to lead, so we're not sure what to
do today."

The senior girl scratches her cheek apologetically.

I've been constantly surprised up to this point.

Wherever I go, I hear Kakihara-kun's name, and everyone relies on him.

He whom supposed to be close to me, but before I knew it, he had become
someone that everyone in this school relied on.

It's something to be proud of, but at the same time, it fills me with guilt.

(I knew he wasn't someone strong enough to bear all these expectations......)

Doumoto-kun said that Kakihara-kun was feeling unwell due to fatigue.

He must have been running around so much to push his body to the limit.
During that time, Kakihara-kun never once asked for my help.

――――No, that's just an excuse.

It's my fault for not realizing Kakihara-kun's limits.

He, who always comes to my rescue when I am approached by someone scary

on my way home from cram school, is not someone I can call a prince.

He is always too desperate to be called that.

Suppressing the fear and holding back the tears that well up with it.

He's not some perfect super prince, but a kind and gentle "hero" who always
gives his all.

"Ah..." (Nikaido)

At that moment, I felt something melting inside me.

I see. For me, Kakihara-kun is――――

"...I'm sorry, Sensei. I just remembered something urgent." (Azusa)

"Huh? What happened?" (Harukawa-sensei)

"I'm sorry! I have to go somewhere!" (Azusa)

"H-huh?! Nikaido-san?!" (Harukawa-sensei)

While hearing the bewildered voice of Harukawa-sensei behind me, I walk down
the hallway with larger strides than usual.

[Take care of Yuusuke-kun, okay?] (PTW/N: chap 85)

As I leave the school building, Shidou-kun's words keep repeating in my head.

There is no doubt that I was attracted to Shidou-kun. But now I understand.

The feelings I had for him were just "admiration."

It's completely different from my feelings for Kakihara-kun.

As I pass through the school gate, I start running.

I don't want to convey anything. I don't want to talk about anything.

Right now――――I just want to see him.

◇◆◇◆

"Oops, looks like it's getting late, huh?" (Ryuuji)

Checking my phone after hearing Doumoto's words, it's already time for dinner,
no doubt about it.

Even if I were to go back to school now, it would be past the time to leave.

"Sorry, I shouldn't have kept you in conversation when you're still not feeling
well." (Rintaro)

"It's okay. Thanks to both of you, I feel better, so I'm actually relieved to be able
to talk about various things." (Yuusuke)

Even though Kakihara says that, it's really just inexcusable that we ended up
having some conversation in his room for about two hours.

I'm glad that it helped him with mental recovery, as it is said that illness starts
from the mind, but I'm not sure I can say that about his physical condition.

"Just to be safe, I'll take another day off tomorrow, and then I'll make sure to
attend from the day after." (Yuusuke)

"Yeah, I'll be waiting."

"......Thanks. And... um..." (Yuusuke)

Kakihara seems to have something difficult to say, but after nodding decisively,
he speaks up.

"When I come back, would you like to practice in the studio with me again?"
(Yuusuke)
At that question, Doumoto and I look at each other.

As we originally intended to do so, being asked in such a formal manner feels a

bit strange.

As we pretend to keep a serious expression holding our laughter, we turn to

Kakihara.

"I'll make the reservation just in case, but if you play as half-heartedly as you did
last time, you won't get off easy, you know?" (Ryuuji)

"I'm still a beginner, but at that time, I'll take advantage of Ryuuji-kun and get
angry. You won't get off easy too, you know." (Rintaro)

As we teasingly convey that, Kakihara scratches his head apologetically, yet

happily.

"All right, now that we've wrapped this up! Let's rock the main event of the
closing party! We're gonna be the ones who are having the most fun! That's the
spirit!" (Ryuuji)

"The ones having the most fun are us... huh. Yeah, you're right. When you do
something, it is always the best to enjoy it.." (Yuusuke)

"Yeah! ......let's do it!" (Rintaro)

Doumoto and Kakihara thrust their arms into the air with the momentum of their
burning spirits.

(......Is this what real youth is all about?)

―――I hope so.

It is a different feeling from the hardship I experienced at the pool with them,
this has a refreshing atmosphere.

With this kind of atmosphere, it is definitely not unpleasant.

Thinking that, I also raise my arm.

Though, because I'm more reserved than the two of them, my embarrassment got
the better of me.

"Well then, we're heading home―――" (Doumoto)

At that moment, interrupting Doumoto's words, the chime of Kakihara's house

rings out.

It seems like someone has come.

"Oh, a visitor?" (Rintaro)

"Hmm, I didn't have any notice for an acquaintance to come...... and I didn't
order anything online either......" (Yuusuke)

Anyway, it's probably best to confirm who it is.

I stand up, pull away from the two, and walk towards the room's exit.

"Since we're leaving anyway, should Ryuuji and I go check? If it's door-to-door
sales, we'll have to turn them away." (Rintaro)

I can't let someone who is unwell do that.

"Ah, that would be great. Can I ask you to do that?" (Yuusuke)

"Yeah, leave it to us."

We decided that we would probably leave soon, so we prepared to leave and exit
the room.

As we walk through the hallway and go to check the camera footage on the
intercom, we see an unexpected person there.

"......For real?" (Ryuuji)

As Doumoto is surprised, I am equally shocked.

There stands Kakihara's crush, Nikaido Azusa.

Judging by her disheveled hair and the way she is breathing heavily, she seems
to have come here in quite a hurry.
"We can't just turn her away now, can we?" (Ryuuji)

"Yeah..." (Rintaro)

The two of us head to the entrance and open the door.

On the other side of the door, Nikaido looks puzzled as she sees me and
Doumoto.

"Ah... you two are still here." (Azusa)

"Yeah, what's up, Azusa? Are you here to visit Yuusuke too?" (Ryuuji)

"......Yes, I wanted to see Kakihara-kun's face too." (Azusa)

Blushing slightly, Nikaido confessed.

No matter how you look, her attitude was clearly――――

"I see. Well, I guess we should just head out then." (Ryuuji)

"Yeah, that's probably for the best." (Rintaro)

Doumoto and I exchange glances and slip past her.

If her feelings had changed, it would have been convenient for us.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that we could see hope for his confession at
the post-festival closing party.

"Shidou-kun!" (Azusa)

"Hm?" (Rintaro)

As I'm leaving, Nikaido calls out to me, and I turn around.

"Thanks for turning me down at that time and for entrusting Kakihara-kun to
me." (Azusa)

"...You're welcome." (Rintaro)

I had been wondering what had caused her change of heart, but I guess that was
it.

It seemed that my clear refusal had worked out in the end.

(I should have done that from the beginning...)

It's too late for regrets.

In the end, it's our own fears that have made things complicated.

The fear of getting hurt, the fear of hurting others.

Everyone understands how terrifying both of those are.

But if you take a step forward from there, the world starts to move so smoothly.

"Rintaro, thanks. Thanks for sticking with us this far." (Ryuuji)

"Why the sudden sentiment?" (Rintaro)

"Thanks to you starting hanging out with us, everything seems to be heading in a
good direction." (Ryuuji)

Doumoto says it with a happy smile.

For some reason, that makes me happy too.

I may have recognized that they were closer to me than I thought.

"Well, see you tomorrow. Don't skip practice, okay?" (Ryuuji)

"Of course. I'll do my best to make sure everyone has fun." (Rintaro)

"Yeah, let's do our best." (Ryuuji)

I part ways with Doumoto at the intersection leading to the station, where he
could walk home.

I arrive at the station, board the train, and get off at the nearest station to my
apartment.
As I walk home alone, I find myself immersed in a deep sense of satisfaction.

"――――Seem like you're in a good mood, 'Rintaro-sama'."

Suddenly, a black luxury car pulls up next to me.

As I stop walking, the car comes to a complete stop, and the window on the
passenger side opens.

A woman in her late twenties with silver hair pops her head out.

She gives off a similar vibe to Rei, maybe because she has some foreign blood in
her.

"......Sofia-san." (Rintaro)

"You remembered me, I'm honored." (Sofia)

She says this in a matter-of-fact tone.

Sofia Kornilov. That's the name of this woman who works for a certain
company.

I'm trying to keep a calm face, but deep down, I'm really confused.

"We had an agreement not to have any contact until I graduated from college,
didn't we." (Rintaro)

"I'm aware of it. However, this is a bit of an emergency." (Sofia)

Sofia takes an envelope out of her pocket and hands it to me.

"This is a letter from your 'father'. Please check the contents." (Sofia)

"......What if I don't want it?" (Rintaro)

"In that case, I'll put it in the mailbox at your house. I'll keep doing that until you
check it." (Sofia)

I let out a deep sigh and take the letter.

I was in a good mood to go home, but now everything's ruined.

I shove the letter into my pants pocket and give her a sidelong glance.

"......Tell my old man. Someone who can't keep his promises shouldn't be
president." (Rintaro)

"Understood." (Sofia)

The car window closes, and then the car drives away from me.

I feel like dark clouds have crept into my clear mind, and my shoulders feel
terribly heavy.

(I have to pull myself together......)

I grip the letter in my pocket tightly and start my walk home again.

Kakihara has finally gotten better.

I can't absolutely afford to lose it here.

 Chapter 7: The Day Before

"The costumes have arrived!"

On the day before the school festival, after school.

Girls carrying cardboard boxes rushed into our classroom where we remained.

Following them, Kakihara appears with an even larger cardboard box, placing it
in front of us.

"Due to budget constraints, we tried to minimize the number of rentals, so some

costumes may not fit perfectly. For now, please reuse them on the first and
second days." (Yuusuke)

The floor personnel consists of three boys and three girls, rotating every two
hours.

The kitchen personnel follows the same pattern, ensuring that each student
participates in both the floor and kitchen duties for two hours each.

Originally, I planned to coordinate the schedule with Yukio. However, he was

invited by a girl to join her, resulting in the cancellation of our plan.

To make things more interesting, the girl who invited Yukio was Miyamoto, the
one who had invited him during the cooking practice.

It's great to see that his youth was progressing smoothly.

――――Although, when I told him this, for some reason, he pouted and
displayed an attitude of discontent.

Despite our long association, there were still many aspects of Yukio that I
couldn't comprehend.
"Since the interior preparations are already complete, those who can try on
costumes today, please do so. After that, take it easy and rest. Let's do our best
for the next two days!" (Yuusuke)

"""YEAH!"""

Encouraged by Kakihara, our classmates respond with spirited voices.

"Oh, Kakihara-kun. I have something I want to confirm with you in case trouble
arises tomorrow. Do you have time?" (Azusa)

"Hmm? Yeah, I'm free. What's it?" (Yuusuke)

"Umm, let's see――――" (Azusa)

As we begin to disperse, I notice Nikaido approaching Kakihara.

Since Kakihara's return, preparations had progressed incredibly smoothly.

This was undoubtedly due to Nikaido's dedication and support, more than ever.

That day when Nikaido visited Kakihara's house, I didn't know exactly what the
two talked about, but there was no doubt that their relationship had progressed.

It feels like things have fallen into their rightful place, or something like that.

In any case, at least one cause of my stomachache had disappeared.

If things continued like this, Kakihara's confession might go well――――or so

I hoped.

"Rintaro, let's take our leave too?" (Yukio)

"Yeah, let's go." (Rintaro)

With our school bags slung over our shoulders, I follow Yukio leaving the
classroom.

As we are on our way, we overhear the conversation of two girls near the door.

"Hey, hey, how do you think Otosaki-san will look in a maid outfit?"
"I can't wait! Plus, since we can see her up close, being in the same class is really
awesome!"

――――Well, it's understandable.

In response to the girls' requests, the costumes of the floor personnel are the
short-skirted type that you often see in maid cafes. The reason? Because it's cute.

There was a bit of debate as some boys insisted on classic maid outfits, but they
eventually gave in to the pressure from the lively girls who were conscious of
"the perfect shot."

......What a pathetic.

"......Rintaro, are you interested in seeing Otosaki-san in her maid outfit?"

(Yukio)

"Huh? W-well, I guess? I mean, I'm a healthy guy, so...... to some extent."
(Rintaro)

"......You pervert." (Yukio)

"I'll smack you." (Rintaro)

While exchanging light banter, Yukio and I walk home.

(Come to think of it...... It was tough in the end to show it first.)

As I gaze out of the train window, I recall my conversation with Rei.

She had expressed a desire to see me in a butler outfit before anyone else, but
considering we couldn't take home the precious rented costume.

So in the end, I won't be the first to see Rei in her maid outfit either――――

I can accept that it can't be helped, but it's still disappointing.

I have plenty of perverted thoughts too, after all.

Arriving back at my apartment, I go through the auto-lock and stand in front of

the door of my house.
As I unlock the door with my key and get inside, I notice something a little out
of the ordinary.

"...There are more shoes." (Rintaro)

Neatly arranged at the entrance are shoes that Rei often wears.

Although she had suddenly taken a day off for a work meeting, it seemed she
had already finished it.

Placing my foot on the hallway floor, thinking she is probably relaxing inside,
the living room door opens, and Rei appears.

――――However.

"Y-you..." (Rintaro)

"......Welcome home, Goshujin-sama." (Rei)

With those words, Rei bows beautifully.

Her attire is unmistakably a maid outfit... no, it is a costume of MilleSta, the one
for their music videos. I had seen this costume in one of MilleSta's music videos
on a video streaming site.

To me who is clearly flustered, Rei tilts her head.

"What's wrong, Rin――――I mean, Goshujin-sama?" (Rei)

"Ah, it's nothing......"(Rintaro)

What could I say?

A super idol wearing a costume that I had only seen through a screen, is now in
the same space, breathing the same air.

It is so surreal that my mind can't keep up.

"Could it be... it didn't suit me?" (Rei)

"No, NONONO! Absolutely not!" (Rintaro)

Looking at Rei, who looked apologetic with her eyes downcast, I hurriedly
denied.

"It suits you incredibly well! You look super cute... you know?" (Rintaro)

"Do I? I'm glad then." (Rei)

I blurted out my words in a fluster, so I smack my cheeks to regain my

composure, and take a second look at Rei's appearance.

Yup, she's so charming that I'm at a loss for words.

She's gone all out with the makeup just for wearing this, and she looks even
more put together than usual.

――――But seriously, think about this rationally.

Even just the everyday Otosaki Rei in her school uniform looks like she's from a
different world, and now that she's enhanced that, what kind of effect will that
have on me, who saw her up close?

I mean, wouldn't it be natural for my vocabulary to just melt away?

I guess this is what they call "Transcended*". ("限界化")

It's a word I've been hearing a lot in the MilleSta fan community recently, but I
never thought I'd be using it myself.

"I couldn't show the costume I'm going to wear at the festival to you first, but I
really wanted to show it... so I borrowed this costume from the agency." (Rei)

"You're really cute." (Rintaro)

"Huh... what's wrong? Rintaro." (Rei)

"My bad, I slipped." (Rintaro)

This is bad. This isn't like me at all.

If I don't start being able to give serious opinions soon, I feel like I'm just going
to keep losing myself.

To begin with, when it comes to my taste in clothing, I'm more into styles that
highlight the thighs, like hot pants or shorts. So, it's not like I have a maid outfit
fetish or anything――――.

"......Ah." (Rintaro)

No, her thighs are really highlighted.

It's a costume for the live performance, so I'm sure the skirt is designed to handle
vigorous movements, but there's definitely the absolute territory above the knees
created firmly between the garter belt through the skirt.

Yeah, this might really get into my taste.

I don't want to be misunderstood, so I'll say it again and again. Although I'm
desperately trying to hold back every day, I'm just a high school boy who can
still get lustful.

So it's only natural to get excited, right?

"Anyway, I'm glad you're pleased." (Rei)

"......Thanks. I wish I could have prepared something like a butler outfit too."
(Rintaro)

"That can't be helped. I just happened to have the one I used in the music video."
(Rei)

Surely, it's rarely the case that you just happen to have a butler's uniform.

"......Or rather, sorry. My shift as the floor personnel got moved to tomorrow."
(Rintaro)

Right, I should have apologized for this first.

My shift as a floor personnel is on the first day, and as a kitchen personnel on the
second.

Due to accommodating public customers, Rei can't attend on the first day.

In other words, I won't be able to show her myself in the butler outfit she wanted
to see.

Originally, I thought I could show it during the costume fitting today.

But Rei's sudden absence messed up the plan.

"My work timing was bad too. So, I'm the one who should be sorry. But, it's
nothing to worry about." (Rei)

Saying that, Rei puffs out her chest.

Her facial expression remains as usual, but I have a feeling she's thinking
something bad.

"I have a great idea." (Rei)

PTW/N:

"限界化": Genkaika

“限界化(げんかいか)” [Genkaika] is short for “限界(げんかい)オタク化(か)”

[Genkai otaku-ka] verb (needs “する” after it).

An otaku has reached the limit of something he/she should keep as a person and
has abandoned even his/her dignity as a person. Or masochism.

General meaning

限界 means limit, 化 means -ification,

限界化 means It already reached its limits.

Refers to a state in which one has lost one’s sense of reason and has come to
shout and express love according to one’s instincts.

Mainly incoherent speech and behavior (but we know that he/she is expressing
his/her love for something) due to his/her language circuits being out of control.

(source: Yukitti-jp)

Genkai Otaku refers to a person who has reached the limit of his/her feelings
towards his/her favorites, such as idols, actors, anime/game characters, etc. It is
also called limiting.

The word "genkai otaku'' was originally often used with a negative meaning, but
as otaku culture has become more widely known due to the influence of social
media, there are more opportunities for the word to be used with positive
overtones.

When you like someone so much that you end up acting in a way that hurts
them, you use phrases like "I've become a nerd to the limit'' or "I've reached my
limit''.
 Chapter 8: The School Festival Day

Finally, the day of the cultural festival arrived.

We gathered at the school early in the morning, and in our classroom, everyone
started preparing.

Of course, Rei wasn't there in the classroom.

(She said she had a great idea, but...)

I have a bad feeling about this.

I usually think of Otosaki Rei as a smart person, but that's only for her "usual"
self. It doesn't account for impulsive actions driven by desire.

I hope she doesn't do something crazy————

"Rintaro! Let's try on the costumes!" (Yukio)

"Hmm? Yeah......" (Rintaro)

Called by Yukio, I head to where the costumes are.

There are only six costumes, three for the performance, and the other three as
spares in case they don't fit.

The remaining costumes are available for anyone with free time to wear and
promote around the festival.

The girls have a similar arrangement too.

"Oh, You're on duty today too, Shidou?"

"Yeah, I'm scheduled for the third shift." (Rintaro)

A classmate in charge of the costume notices me and approaches, then takes one
look at my height, and hands me one of the costumes.

"You aren't over 180 cm, right, Shidou?"

"Yeah, I'm not that tall." (Rintaro)

"Well, it's still taller than average, so try it on with the L size."

"Got it." (Rintaro)

When I put on the handed L-sized jacket, it fit me perfectly.

When I buy casual clothes, I usually go for the L size, so this should be fine as it
is.

"If the jacket fits, then it's all good. As for the inside, wear your own shirt, and
put on the bow tie and the pants that are here."

"Okay." (Rintaro)

I'll wear this in four hours from the start of the school festival.

I'm assigned to be in charge of the hall on the last shift of the day's schedule,
which has three two-hour shifts.

I requested this shift because it's expected that there will be fewer customers.

Based on last year's trend, most of the public customers are contented with the
morning shift and go home.

Of course, visible changes can't be expected, but there's another reason why I
chose this time.

"The third shift, huh... I'm jealous. The first and third shifts overlap with the
street dance club's stage time."

"Haha, I'm glad I won at rock-paper-scissors." (Rintaro)

Outwardly, I appear cheerful. Inwardly, I smirk.

Our school has a street dance club where male and female students engage in
various dance styles.

Their stage performance is of high quality, attracting many spectators, including

students and the public, every year.

As a result, during their performance time, there are fewer customers for other
performances. It's natural for people to gather for scheduled performances,
unlike stores that can be visited anytime.

Understanding this, those of us not particularly enthusiastic about cosplaying

have no reason not to aim for that shift.

Of course, as I'm not the type who enjoys standing in front of people in a butler's
outfit, it's more convenient for me to be seen as little as possible.

Having won a game of luck (rock-paper-scissors) against other rivals targeting

those specific shifts, I managed to secure the desired shift.

――――Or so I thought.

"But the third one has Kakihara and Doumoto, right? I think they'll end up
attracting more customers, won't they?"

"......Yeah, I think so." (Rintaro)

Yeah, for some reason, I'm on the same shift as them.

Even though they're like the top-class popular students in the class hierarchy, for
some reason, they're targeting this time slot, and for some reason, they even won
the rock-paper-scissors game.

It's like they have absolute luck, or some kind of special advantage.

Anyway, two good-looking guys, noticeably in butler's costume, greet the

customers.

I've heard rumors that their fame has spread even to other schools, so it's not
surprising that more people want to see them. Some might even come here after
watching a street dance.
In short, my plan of taking it easy has gone down the drain.

"Hey, Rintaro, did you finish fitting on the costume?" (Ryuuji)

"Oh... It's the guy with the LL-size." (Rintaro)

"Haha, what's with that nickname?" (Ryuuji)

With an unusually cheerful demeanor, Doumoto, accompanied by Kakihara,

comes over to me.

Doumoto, who has a big build, is wearing a jacket one size larger than mine, and
Kakihara, standing next to him, is in a jacket of the same size as mine, L.

"Hey, Rintaro, for some reason, the girls are trying to fix my appearance a lot. Is
today's me that bad?" (Yuusuke)

"......Well." (Rintaro)

Kakihara, looking anxious as he asks, looks just like your usual annoyingly good
guy.

The reason why the girls around him are doing this is probably because they
want to bring forth the ultimate butler.

"Maybe they want to perfect the ideal butler look because the material is good.
Yuusuke-kun, you're just the same as always." (Rintaro)

"A-am I? Hmm... well, if you say so." (Yuusuke)

One of this guy's annoying traits is his lack of awareness of how superior he is.

But still, he's a million times better than those who act all high and mighty.

Kinjou, who was making advances on Rei, is a good example of that.

"......It's about the time." (Yuusuke)

Kakihara looks at the clock on the wall and states so.

In about ten minutes, it'll be time for the customers to enter. The first shift should
already be ready and in position.

"Alright, everyone! Let's do our best again!"

"""YEAAAHHH!"""

And so, this year's school festival begins.

◇◆◇◆

"...It's peaceful." (Rintaro)

I mutter in a low voice as I walk around the school.

The density of the visitors is quite high. This school's festival has always had a
good reputation, and you can see students from other schools here and there.

Because of that, I've witnessed some of our female students being hit on by
students from other schools, but at the same time, our boys are also approaching
girls from other schools, so it's in the same boat.

Teachers are patrolling, so if any trouble were to occur, they would handle it
somehow.

――――Well then.

"…It's boring, isn't it, Rintaro?" (Yukio)

"Yeah, it is." (Rintaro)

I walk down the corridor with Yukio, having that conversation.

Yukio is planning to tour the festival with the girl tomorrow. After this, he will
be working in the hall and in the kitchen, and tomorrow he will be completely
free.

"Wanna grab a snack for now? I heard there's a place selling yakisoba outside."
(Rintaro)

"I had a proper breakfast, you know." (Yukio)

"What about shaved ice then?" (Rintaro)

"Isn't that too much like a traditional fair?" (Yukio)

"Yeah, that seems to be the theme. It's being run by Class C." (Rintaro)

Hmm―――― I realized as I said that, I was quite indifferent to what other

classes were doing.

Come to think of it, I didn't even know what each class was presenting.

No wonder I was bored. After all, I had no goal.

"Well, let's go check it out. Just looking around should kill some time." (Rintaro)

"Yeah, sounds good." (Yukio)

The two of us leave the school building, and outside, there are indeed several
stalls set up, reminiscent of a festival.

"It's been years since I bought yakisoba outside. Kinda looking forward to it."
(Yukio)

Yeah, you're right, I was about to say that, but I stopped myself.

Come to think of it, didn't I eat it at the pool with Kakihara and the others?
Remembering the taste from that time, I suddenly felt a surge of hunger.

"…...I guess I'll have some too." (Rintaro)

"Ooh, you're quite a glutton, aren't you." (Yukio)

"I can't compete with some blonde idol, though." (Rintaro)

It's no exaggeration to say that her appetite defied common sense.

Compared to her voracious appetite, mine was nothing.

[――――Hey, Is that true?]

"......Hmm?" (Rintaro)
On the way to the food stalls, I involuntarily react to a voice I hear while passing
by other customers.

[Isn't this the school where that Rei of the MilleSta goes? I saw it on the internet.
She's definitely here somewhere.]

[But wouldn't that cause a commotion?]

[Who cares! Let's just go to her class for now!]

――――Well, some visitors are here for that reason.

I can understand the feeling of hoping to meet Rei.

But no matter how hard they try, since she didn't even come to school today,
there's no way they can meet her.

What worries me is that there might be some annoying folks who will complain
about just that.

Hopefully, we can get through this event without any trouble.

◇◆◇◆

"Hmm, it's about time, isn't it?" (Yukio)

After checking the time on his smartphone, Yukio said so.

After all the back and forth we did, the two hours that I thought were long
passed by in no time.

"What're you going to do after this, Rintaro?" (Yukio)

"......I don't really have anything to do, so maybe I'll help out behind the scenes."
(Rintaro)

"I-isn't that a little too sad?" (Yukio)

"I just kidding... Anyway, let's go back to the classroom for now. I have to see
you in your butler outfit." (Rintaro)
"Eh! When you say that, it makes me feel embarrassed..." (Yukio)

I don't know why this guy is so fidgety, but if he feels embarrassed even a little,
it's worth teasing him.

As we are about to head back to the classroom, a familiar guy walks in front of
us.

This guy with his annoyingly thick blond hair and an unpleasant attitude is none
other than Kinjou, who foolishly tried to hit on Rei.

"Hey, they still haven't gathered?"

"Sorry, sorry. They usually sleep until noon... but they'll be in here soon."

"If they don't come, I won't let them slide, I'm serious."

Kinjou, along with a rough-looking guy who seems like a public visitor, pass by
us.

He gives off a delinquent vibe, but I hope he's the type of delinquent who would
offer an umbrella to a stray cat on the roadside. It would be nice if he were the
type to pick it up and keep it.

"Hmm? What's wrong, Rintaro?" (Yukio)

"......It's nothing." (Rintaro)

I have a vague sense of unease and can't help but worry, but it's not unusual for
Kinjou to invite his friends.

In this situation, it's more rude of me to be wary based on my own

preconceptions.

But――――there's nothing that hits as accurately as this bad premonition at

times like this.

◇◆◇◆

"How could this happen!" (Yukio)

In a partitioned break room inside the classroom, Yukio's voice echoes.

I'm also there as a related party, but I can't help but laugh at the scene in front of
me.

"Sorry! But the person in charge of promotions came out wearing the smallest
size!"

"Ugh... I get the situation, but still." (Yukio)

You probably figured it out from the conversation just now, but it seems that the
butler outfit Yukio was supposed to wear has been taken by one of the people in
charge of promotions.

We tried to contact him to return it, but so far, no response.

It's probably just a case of being too caught up in the school festival and not
realizing it.

So, that's how it is.

Yukio has no choice but to wear another costume――――in other words, a

maid outfit for girls.

The girls who have wished for him to wear it look somewhat amused as they
watch Yukio, as he blushes and looks down in embarrassment.

"Ugh! Rintaro! You don't have to laugh so much either!" (Yukio)

"Haha, sorry sorry. It just suits you too well." (Rintaro)

"Huh?" (Yukio)

Since there are classmates around, I respond in my usual nonchalant manner, and
Yukio makes a slightly bewildered face.
In fact, Yukio, who was already known as being too cute for a boy, is now
wearing an outfit that is heavily equipped with cuteness, called a maid outfit.

There's no way that wouldn't be charming.

If I hadn't known that this person was a boy, I might have been shaken by the
blushing face from earlier.

"D-Does it really suit me...?" (Yukio)

"Yeah. It suits you incredibly well." (Rintaro)

"You're not lying, right?" (Yukio)

This guy, just because I'm in my nonchalant mode, is he doubting my words?

"There's no way I'd be lying. Everyone thinks so, right?" (Rintaro)

I ask the girls present, and they nod their heads in agreement.

I wink at Yukio for proof, and he seems to finally believe me and shows us a grin
that we have never seen before.

"I-I see... Then, I guess it's okay." (Yukio)

Well, I'm not really sure it's okay.

"Well then, Rintaro, I'm off!" (Yukio)

"Y-Yeah. Good luck." (Rintaro)

I don't know why he's so excited, but if he's having fun――――well, I guess it's
fine.

Seeing off Yukio, who is now all excited as he replaces the previous hall staff, I
sit down in a nearby seat.

I'm planning to kill some time here for a while, but I don't intend to stay long
considering the turnover rate. For the time that can't be used up, I plan to wander
around by myself.
"Welcome back, Goshujin-sama!" (Yukio)

"......You seem pretty excited for someone who had no choice but to do." (Yukio)

"Well, if it's come to this, there's no helping it, so you might as well enjoy it,
right?" (Yukio)

As he says that, Yukio is flipping around as if to show off the frills of his skirt,
looking somewhat more cheerful compared to the expression on his face when
he found out he didn't have his butler's uniform.

It's way better than being forced to do it, but his adaptability is a little surprising.

"Could I have your order?" (Yukio)

"Then... I'll have the transparent warabimochi and black tea." (Rintaro)

"Understood." (Yukio)

Yukio, who has noted my order, goes to the kitchen to communicate it.

In the meantime, I look around from my seat in the corner.

The number of customers is decent. It seems like the number of public customers
is gradually increasing, and I notice a line forming in the corridor after I have
been sitting for a while.

I'm relieved that we don't have to worry about not having customers come.

"Here you go, Goshujin-sama. These are the items you ordered." (Yukio)

"Hey... being called 'Goshujin-sama' is giving me an itch." (Rintaro)

"Huh? But that's the rule, so you have to accept it." (Yukio)

With a teasing smile, Yukio places the warabimochi and black tea that I have
ordered in front of me.

Even though I suggested it myself, I think this warabimochi will attract attention.

And the taste――――yeah, they made it just as I taught them.

[...Hey, isn't she hella cute?]

[I totally get it. Should I try talking to her later...?]

[Hey, wait. I saw her first, okay?]

As I sip my black tea, I overhear the conversation of those guys from the
adjacent table.

Following their gaze, I see Yukio in the maid outfit.

They look young and are wearing casual clothes, so they are probably from
another school.

It's a pity, but that means they don't know that Yukio is a boy. I hope the shock
will be minimal when they find out later.

――――And then some time passed.

After finishing the warabimochi, I drink the remaining black tea in one go and
get up from my seat.

Yukio, who notices, approaches me holding a tray for serving dishes.

"Are you leaving already, Rintaro?" (Yukio)

"Yeah, it's not good to linger even though it's my own class. Do your best for the
rest of the shift." (Rintaro)

"Mm. Hehe, I'm looking forward to seeing you in your butler outfit later. I'll use
that as motivation." (Yukio)

"I'd appreciate it if you didn't expect too much......" (Rintaro)

Well, I guess it's better than not being expected at all.

But then again, it's kind of awkward if I end up letting him down.

Anyway, I'll just do my work quietly and efficiently.

I still have over an hour left until I have to go back to the classroom.
So I think I might be able to see the performance of the drama club,
but――――

"Huh...?" (Rintaro)

When I glance out the window in the hallway, I see a group of guys walking past
three girls, just like the guys who were staring at Yukio before, and they are
staring at the girls in awe.

My gaze is also drawn to the girls, as if I'm being pulled in by them.

"......I feel like I've seen them somewhere before." (Rintaro)

Even from this distance, I can tell that those three are incredibly beautiful.

Not just the guys I saw, but several others who notice them are also turning to
look at them.

――――Well, it's probably just a coincidence.

I happen to know a trio of beautiful girls.

But the ones I'm seeing now have completely different hair colors and slightly
different facial impressions.

The girls I know are really good at disguises, but I'm sure that has nothing to do
with it.

Yeah, it should have nothing to do with it.

◇◆◇◆

Putting aside irrelevant matters, I casually fill my spare time.

I stroll around aimlessly, and even go to see a play that doesn't particularly
interest me because I don't know anyone in it, making the most of the freedom of
being alone.

As a result, I find myself surprisingly enjoying the play and basking in the
satisfaction of having a good time, before checking the time and heading back to
the classroom.
(Ten minutes before the shift change... this should do.)

Considering the time needed for changing and other handovers, five minutes
seems a bit tight.

I open the door for my classmates, separate from the one for the customers, and
enter just like I did with Yukio.

"Oh, sup~! Rintaro." (Ryuuji)

Then, Doumoto, who has arrived earlier, calls out to me.

Doumoto is already dressed in a butler's outfit, and his hair is also neatly styled
with wax.

I've been thinking since the last time at the pool, but is he the kind of guy that
other guys admire? His chest is quite prominent due to his thick pectoral
muscles, and his waist is tightly toned, creating a stunning inverted triangle body
shape.

Unlike the slender, muscular physique of Kakihara, he gives off a solid and
sturdy impression, without any unsightly unsightly, bulging muscle look.

"I thought I came quite early, but it seemed I lost to Ryuuji-kun, huh." (Rintaro)

"Nah, I was with Yuusuke and Honoka for a while, but then Yuusuke and Azusa
had to leave for the committee work. Honoka and I were going to hang out
together, but then she suddenly blushed and said something about feeling
embarrassed, and ran off somewhere." (Ryuuji)

"...Heeeh." (Rintaro)

"She was acting kind of weird. Maybe she was not feeling well or something."
(Ryuuji)

Most probably, however, I think that worry is misplaced.

It seems to be a setup of Kakihara → Nikaido, and Nogi → Doumoto. Doumoto

seems to be like your typical dense romantic comedy protagonist, and Nogi must
be having quite a hard time.
From here on out, it's really none of my business, so I won't unnecessarily
intervene.

"Sorry! I'm late!" (Yuusuke)

As the conversation ended, Kakihara, out of breath, burst through the door
behind me.

"It's okay, there's still over five minutes until the shift change." (Rintaro)

"I-I see...... I was having trouble resolving the unexpected trouble, but I'm glad I
made it in time....." (Yuusuke)

Catching his breath, Kakihara grabs his costume.

Now, I also need to change soon.

The rental items have only a rough size, so they feel a bit off, but it's not as tight
as Doumoto's, so I guess it's fine.

"Don't you style your hair, Rintaro?" (Ryuuji)

"Well... honestly, I'm not good with wax and stuff. Thus, I don't use it much
normally." (Rintaro)

What I don't like about wax is that sticky feeling.

I understand that styling my hair means grooming to some extent, but I feel
uncomfortable when my hair becomes stiff.

I think my hair is quite long for a guy, but putting wax on it is too much of a
hassle.

"Isn't that a waste? It's not like you can wear it that many times, so why not try a
different hairstyle?" (Ryuuji)

"Huh...?" (Rintaro)

"N-no, if you don't want to do it that much, you don't have to do it." (Ryuuji)

I unintentionally make a displeased face, which makes Doumoto back off.

But what he's saying is not entirely wrong.

Since we have these costumes, it'll be more enjoyable if we dress up properly.

"......Can you teach me, how to do it?" (Rintaro)

"Huh, are you sure?" (Ryuuji)

"I thought about what Ryuuji-kun said, it's only about two hours, so maybe I
should give it a try." (Rintaro)

"......I see." (Ryuuji)

Kakihara nods once, picks up the wax he has been using, and stands behind me.

"If that's the case, I'll help too. Ryuuji, give me your opinion too." (Yuusuke)

"Got it. Let's make Rintaro look really handsome while we're at it." (Ryuuji)

No, you don't have to go that far――――

Before I'm able to say that, Kakihara and Domoto begin working on my hair.

"Should we make it stand up a bit here?" (Yuusuke)

"Yeah, and then style it this way......" (Ryuuji)

It still feels strange to have someone else touch my hair.

Of course, it doesn't make my heart race like when Rei did it before.

"――――Hey, it's looking pretty good, isn't it?" (Yuusuke)

"Yeah...... it's looking really good." (Ryuuji)

Their gazes are drawn to my face, which is reflected in the mirror used to check
my appearance.

I also see myself with my hair set, well, it's certainly more defined than usual.
That's the way of being dressed to be seen, I think.
Combined with the butler's outfit, which is not like my usual appearance, it's a
high point from my point of view.

"If I take care of my appearance properly every day, I can look like this, huh......
Thank you guys." (Rintaro)

"No... if anything we're actually the most surprised." (Yuusuke)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

Seriously, their genuinely surprised looks make me more and more confused
about the situation, and I even begin to wonder if there is something strange with
my outfit.

Perhaps seeing my puzzled expression, Kakihara hurriedly speaks up.

"W-We're surprised because it suits you so well!" (Yuusuke)

"Yeah! You can even ask other girls for their opinion if you want!" (Ryuuji)

There's really no need for that.

Well, it doesn't seem like they're just being polite, and getting positive feedback
from these two is good enough for me.

Besides, no matter how good I look, it won't make a difference as long as I'm
with these two.

"Hey, Rintaro. It's about time...... to shift......" (Yukio)

Just as our trio set ended, Yukio, dressed in a maid outfit, appears.

"Hmm, yeah. I'm heading out――――what's up?" (Rintaro)

"Eh? Umm, Rintaro, aren't you?" (Yukio)

"Yeah...... I am, what's wrong?" (Rintaro)

Yukio looks stunned as he gazes at my face.

I wonder what. I'd like to get some feedback at the very least, but perhaps he's
holding back from our usual exchanges because Kakihara and Doumoto are
here?

"Say! Inaba, don't you think Rintaro is cool today, too?" (Yuusuke)

"Huh? Ah... yeah. I, I think he's really cool." (Yukio)

Asked for feedback, Yukio looks somewhat puzzled.

Even though there is no sign of falsehood in his words, I can't understand why he
looks so complicated.

"......At this rate, everyone will notice Rintaro's good points." (Yukio)

"What's that supposed to mean?" (Rintaro)

"It's nothing, really. Come on, it's time to shift change!" (Yukio)

As Yukio says, it's already time to switch.

As we leave the staff room-like area and enter the classroom, all eyes are on us.

Some girls let out excited shrieks, while boys who know Kakihara and Doumoto
cheer mockingly.

"Oh, no way... the super handsome guys show up just as we're leaving?"

"What should we do!? Should we line up again?"

"But then we won't get around......"

I can hear such exchanges from nearby girls who seem to be from another
school.

These girls are not the only ones who have such impressions, everyone,
including the current students in the classrooms and the public visitors, directs
their attention toward Kakihara and Doumoto.

"Ugh, it feels kinda uneasy." (Yuusuke)

"You feel so? I think It's kinda nice to be the center of attention." (Ryuuji)
"Well, it's not a bad feeling, but..." (Yuusuke)

Ignoring the conversation between the two, I'm overcome by a strange sensation.

Some of the gazes that I thought were solely directed at Kakihara and Doumoto
are somehow also directed at me.

And the owners of those gazes begin whispering to each other, making me feel
even more uncomfortable.

I hope they're not saying anything mean at least――――.

◇◆◇◆

Anyway, what I have to do now is work in the hall.

I switch with Yukio and the others, and hold a tray for taking orders and menus.

"Alright! Let's go with full spirit!" (Ryuuji)

With Doumoto's energetic voice, we welcome new customers.

"Welcome back, Ojou-sama." (Yuusuke)

""KYAA~!""

"Eh......" (Yuusuke)

As Kakihara greets the girls from the other classes who have come as customers,
they let out even louder screams than before.

Their reactions are very obvious, to the extent that you can tell they're
completely after Kakihara.

And if you look closely, you can see that the line of people waiting in the
hallway has gotten longer as soon as it's Kakihara's and Doumoto's shift.

"If Yuusuke leads them that way... then you girls come this way!" (Ryuuji)

"Hey, we're also customers, so please serve us properly."

"Oh, You're right! Sorry about that. Then, Ojou-sama, come this way please."
(Ryuuji)

"Ah... this might be quite nice."

It seems Doumoto has some acquaintances as he starts leading a few girls to

their seats.

Although it's an unspoken agreement, the rule is deeply ingrained that the boys
generally handle the female customers and vice versa, and the hall is smoothly
managed with just a few words exchanged to inform who will be serving whom.

After that, male customers continue to arrive for a while, and the girls who are
on shift with us at the same time handle them.

While I'm busy taking orders from existing customers and delivering items, I
soon notice new customers who need to be welcomed entering the entrance.

――――Well then.

When it comes to welcoming customers, I have to say that line that's pretty
embarrassing when taken seriously.

No matter how festive the mood is, an embarrassing thing is still an

embarrassing thing.

But of course, I can't just let it go unsaid.

I clear my throat and walk towards the female customers waiting at the entrance.

"――――Welcome back, Ojou-sama." (Rintaro)

I have to admit, my voice was perfect.

It feels like the result of living feigning friendliness for the past few years has
paid off.

"Ah...... Umm."

"......Hmm?" (Rintaro)
The customer I addressed is three women.

They're not――――they look mature with their makeup, but upon closer
inspection, they seem quite young. Probably students from another school.

These are the beautiful public visitors who attracted a lot of attention that I saw
through the windows of the school a while ago.

Apart from that, I feel like I have seen them somewhere before.

Perhaps they're models in a magazine or something? They all seem to have more
than just the looks of entertainers, so it won't be surprising.

(Anyway......)

I have to attend to the customers.

I gather myself and speak again.

"Seats for three, is that correct?" (Rintaro)

"Y-yes. That's right, please......" (K)

"Hmm......?" (Rintaro)

The shortest of the three, who was the first to respond to my question, averts her
face as if to hide her high-pitched voice that had just escaped her lips.

It looks a little suspicious, but it doesn't look like there's any harm in it.

I nod once and guide them to the newly vacant seats.

"Please, have a seat over there. I will bring you some water." (Rintaro)

"Yeysh..."

Not only her, but for some reason, the other two in the back also look extremely
nervous as they walk into the classroom.

I don't feel any harm from them, but seeing such mysterious behavior makes me
have to be on guard.
While feeling sorry for them, I eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Hey... if you get so restless, he'll know." (R)

"I-it can't be helped, can it? If he appears before us in such...... such attire, it's
natural to be surprised, right?" (K)

"......I'm not denying that." (R)

"Both of you're acting suspicious too, so don't complain!" (M)

――――Haha, it can't be right, can it?

For some reason, the voice sounds familiar to me now, but I don't know any of
these girls.

They have blonde, red, and black hair, and they look completely different from
the all-black-haired girls standing before me right now.

They have distinctive eye colors, but all of these girls here have black eyes. They
are all different from each other in every aspect of their appearance.

The only thing similar is their body shape and height, extremely similar, but
even if I looked at them from above the clothes, it wouldn't be evidence.

But――――but still.

"Hey, what do you want for dinner tonight?" (Rintaro)

"Shrimp fry." (R)

"..." (Rintaro)

"..." (R)

When I speak to the girl walking at the back, she immediately gives me that
answer.

When I give her a glare, she gradually breaks out in a cold sweat.

The same is true for the two in front of her.

"......I made a mistake. It's a Pork cutlet." (R)

"That's not where you made a mistake!" (K)

The smallest girl delivers a chop to the girl who corrected her answer to pork
cutlet.

Yeah, well, I have expected that to happen.

Even though the impressions are completely different, I have been surprised by
their disguising skills many times. Just by changing their eye and hair colors,
they look like completely different people, and my eyes know that best.

"I'm sorry, Rintaro-kun. We'll do our best not to get in your way." (Mia)

"MIA" puts her face close to my ear and whispers.

On the eve of the school festival, the word "great idea" that Rei had said passed
through my mind.

I'm sure this is what she meant, but it was so simple that I couldn't even think of
it.

"......Be careful, seriously." (Rintaro)

"It's okay. I'm confident in my acting skills." (Mia)

Well, she's on the level of a professional actress, so she has confidence.

Kanon seems to be skilled as an idol, and for Rei————as long as she keeps
quiet, there shouldn't be any problems.

Although they are too beautiful and have attracted a lot of attention, they haven't
been exposed as MilleSta yet, it's perhaps because they are paying attention to
their surroundings properly.

"Rintaro, is there a problem?" (Yuusuke)

"What? No, I'm fine! Nothing's wrong," (Rintaro)

"Is that so......?" (Yuusuke)

I urge Kakihara to return to his own work and then have Rei and the girls sit in
the vacant seats.

"......You're attracting a lot of attention, you know." (Rintaro)

I inspect my surroundings with my eyes only, trying not to move my face.

The male customers are obviously conscious of them, and they keep moving
their eyes to check the faces of the girls.

"Well, of course. No matter how much we try to hide it, our overflowing aura of
beautiful girls can't be concealed." (Kanon)

"That statement sounds like it came from someone not very smart," (Rintaro)

"HUUUUH?! Calling someone stupid makes you the stupid one." (Kanon)

"Then it's just you." (Rintaro)

I didn't say anything referring to her as stupid, though.

"Anyway――――Ojou-sama, have you decided on your order?" (Rintaro)

I, as the butler, can't afford to adopt a casual attitude towards customers, whom I
should be meeting for the first time from an outsider's perspective.

With my best sales smile, I addressed the girls who were examining the
handmade menu.

"Stop it, Rintaro. That smile is too much for me." (Rei)

Saying that, Rei's eyes seem distorted into heart shapes for some reason.

I'm happy to know that she's complimenting me, but at the same time, I'm a little
scared.

"Hey, Rin――――I mean, Mr. Butler?" (Mia)

"Yes, what can I do for you?" (Rintaro)

"Is that smile, also directed at people other than us?" (Mia)
I can't quite grasp Mia's intention behind the question, so I glance around.

Am I being tested in some way? If so, I should answer honestly.

"Dear customers are all my first guests to serve, so dear customers are the only
Ojou-samas I have had the pleasure of serving in this way yet." (Rintaro)

"......Hmm, I guess that's okay then." (Mia)

I wonder what pleased her.

Mia looks back at the menu list with satisfaction.

Separately, Rei and Kanon look grinning or rather, looking satisfied.

"Anyway, do you have any recommendations? I'm good with anything." (Kanon)

"In that case, I would highly recommend the warabimochi. For drinks, we have
green tea or black tea." (Rintaro)

"I see. Then I'll have the warabimochi and green tea." (Kanon)

Starting with Kanon's choice from the menu, Rei and Mia also follow suit and
order the same.

After jotting down their orders just to be sure, I place my hand on my chest and
bow my head towards them.

"Please wait a moment, Ojou-sama." (Rintaro)

With the designated line spoken, I leave the table with a smile that is not a sales
smile.

Regardless of the method, the fact that I'm able to show Rei myself in the
butler's uniform is a pleasure for me.

◇◆◇◆

The number of people who have come to the restaurant has increased, but the job
I have to do is still the same.
After placing the orders to the girls, I confirm the presence of new customers
and proceed to greet them.

"Welcome back, Ojou-sama." (Rintaro)

Standing before two college-aged women, I put on my best sales smile.

They seem to like it and begin giggling.

"Seats for two, is that correct??" (Rintaro)

"Yes. Um, um, are you the person in charge of serving the customers?"

"Huh? Oh, yes. I'm in charge of serving the customers......." (Rintaro)

"Yay! Lucky us!"

I don't know what it is that they're pleased with, but it's always nice to receive
compliments.

As I feel a little better, I notice the commotion behind me.

Casually glancing to the side, I see that Rei has crushed a paper cup of water,
and the rest two are hurriedly covering it up.

It doesn't seem like a big deal, so I'll leave it for now. But I should refrain from
being too obvious about my contentment.

"Please follow this way." (Rintaro)

"Ka~y!"

I guide the excited two to their table and provide them with paper cups of water
before they decide what they want to order.

For some reason, they call me, so I halt in front of their table.

"Hey, what's your name?"

"I go by Shidou." (Rintaro)

"Not just your surname, what's your given name?"

"......It's Rintaro." (Rintaro)

"Hee~, Rintaro-kun, is that it, that's a cute name."

"Do you think so?" (Rintaro)

"Does Rintaro-kun have a girlfriend?"

"I don't... I'm currently not dating anyone." (Rintaro)

"What? Such a cool guy like you to have none, isn't it a waste?"

"That's...... I don't think I'm that cool――――" (Rintaro)

"But if you don't have a girlfriend, maybe I should volunteer? Just kidding."

"Hahaha......" (Rintaro)

What the heck is this conversation?

I don't know how to react, so I just give a friendly laugh and let it go.

It seems too obvious for a moment, but regardless, the two women in front of me
are laughing happily.

Then I hear a crumpling sound from the back again.

When I check by averting just my eyes, this time, not only Rei but also Mia is
crushing the paper cups.

It sends a shiver down my spine.

"Rintaro! Can you help me for a moment?" (Ryuuji)

"Oh, sure! I'll be right there!" (Rintaro)

Called by a hurried Doumoto, I move away from the table where I have been
serving the girls.
Honestly, it is a relief. It's not like I was uncomfortable, but as they were
customers, I couldn't just ignore them, and it would have wasted a lot of my
time.

"Eeh, are you leaving?

"I'm very sorry about that. But, if you've decided on your order, please call me
again." (Rintaro)

With a disappointed voice behind me, I head off to deal with the customer that
Kakihara and Doumoto are unable to handle.

We intentionally maintain the number of tables low to avoid being overwhelmed,

but as the turnover rate increases, the busyness grows.

The girls who are on the same shift as us seem to be working part-time at the
family restaurant and are efficiently handling the male customers. Unfortunately,
we can't keep up with them.

(Damn it... I knew I shouldn't have taken this job.)

Even though the work has only just begun, there is nothing I can do about it if
I'm not used to it anyway.

Kakihara seems to be getting used to it already, and both Dohmoto and I need to
catch up quickly.

"――――C'mon, guys! Get your asses over here!"

As I continue my work again, I hear an irritated voice coming from the entrance.

It is Kinjou, accompanied by a bunch of his friends from another school.

He's acting even more arrogantly than usual, probably it's due to surrounded by
his friends.

The girl who is supposed to greet them looks somewhat troubled.

"Sigh... you guys slept till this hour, so we're running late thanks to you."
(Kinjou)
"Seriously, you should be grateful we came here...... We're still sleepy, you
know?"

The guys behind Kinjou, who are yawning, weren't there when I saw him earlier.

Now there are five of them in total, forming a rather conspicuous group.

"Umm... Welcome back, Goshujin-sama. Will it be seats for five?"

"Can't you tell just by looking?" (Kinjou)

"E-excuse my rudeness! Right this way, please."

Kinjou, with his unpleasant attitude, follows the maid-dressed girl in an irritated
manner.

At the same time, his friends, with annoying smirks on their faces, start
bothering the girl in front of them.

"Heh, I thought it would be cheap-looking, but it's surprisingly authentic, isn't it?
You're cute too, you know?"

"U-umm..... Please stop it."

"Huh? It's fine, isn't it? Come on, give us good service."

The guy is trying to touch the girl, and the girl looks uncomfortable, displaying a
mix of distress and fear on her face.

This is clearly going too far.

Before I can speak up and ask them to stop, the justice-driven Kakihara
intervenes.

"Excuse me, could you please stop touching the girl in our class?" (Yuusuke)

"Huh? I haven't touched them yet. Don't make baseless accusations. What a rude
guy you are."

"What...?" (Yuusuke)
It is clear that they are the ones with a bad attitude, but they don't seem to feel
guilty about it. Rather, they even laugh at Kakihara for trying to warn them.

Seeing their faces, Doumoto is about to explode with anger.

Doumoto furrows his brow deeply and tries to confront them from behind
Kakihara.

"......Ryuuji, hold back." (Yuusuke)

However, Kakihara stops him with his hand.

"But..." (Ryuuji)

"Excuse my rudeness. Please continue to enjoy our maid and butler cafe."
(Yuusuke)

Kakihara must have judged that these guys are just too much trouble.

If Doumoto were to confront them, there was a possibility that it could have
turned into a violent incident.

Of course, Doumoto would never lay a hand on them, but if they were serious
about causing trouble, it wouldn't end well.

So, for now, they just had to restrain them and change the way they served the
girls.

So for now, it's just a deterrent to calm things down, and it seems like he plans to
take the task over from the girl from here on.

"Kakihara-kun..."

"It's okay, leave it to me." (Yuusuke)

He sends the girl to another table and Kakihara begins to guide the Kinjou's
gang.

However, there's no way they can be satisfied with that――――.

"Hey, hey! We came here because we heard the maids would entertain us, but
why do we have to be served by a bastard?"

"I'm very sorry. They're also busy." (Yuusuke)

"Sigh, this is disappointing. Hey, Kinjou, did you lie to us when you brought us
here?"

The guy who throws the words at Kinjou wears an expression of fake
dissatisfaction mixed with a cunning smile.

Not only he, but the rest of them have the same expression as well, and Kinjou,
who is in the center, restrains them with his hand.

"No, no, I'm sure she's here. She's just hiding because she doesn't want to cause a
commotion." (Kinjou)

After hearing Kinjo's words, I broke out in a cold sweat.

Finally, I understood Kinjou's objective here.

"We don't have any business with you, boys. Come the hell out quickly, REI of
MilleSta." (Kinjou)

Raising his voice, Kinjo intentionally mentions her name.

Because his voice echoes in the hallway, the other customers begin to buzz.

Some of them are even visiting this place because REI of the Millefeuille Stars
goes to this school. If such voices are heard, many onlookers will come by in
search of people who shouldn't be there.

That's exactly what Kinjou is after.

It's his revenge――――for being rejected by Rei.

◇◆◇◆

(What a hassle you've done......)

I mutter a complaint in my mind.

In any case, if by some chance customers start pouring in for Rei, and if it's
deemed a problem by the school, our maid butler café could face a suspension.

If that were to happen, all our efforts would be in vain.

"Here, show yourself up. You're here to attract customers, right? You guys also
wanted to use her popularity to attract people, didn't you? Hurry up and make
that intention come true." (Kinjou)

"......We don't have any such intentions! Besides, she hasn't even come to
school!" (Yuusuke)

"You're saying that just for appearance, aren't you? You must've planned for her
to come out around this time, considering there wouldn't be too many customers
stopping by." (Kinjou)

Ignoring Kakihara's rebuttal, Kinjou accuses confidently.

His voice is loud and his attitude is as if he hasn't said anything wrong.

Then the hallway becomes buzzing with noise. It will be a relief if they
understand that Rei isn't here and leaves quickly, but rumors spread quickly and
take time to calm down.

To contain the situation, we have no choice but to raise our voices and refute
Kinjou's claims――――.

"Huh, I don't give a f*ck to yourself airs! We'll just have to wait until Rei comes
out!" (Kinjou)

Kinjou says with a sneer, as they settle into the prepared chairs.

".......Hey, can you guys leave already? Even if you call her, it's impossible for
her who isn't even at school to show up." (Yuusuke)

"Shut the f*ck up! We won't be fooled by such lies!" (Kinjou)

Their claims are nonsensical.

If we truly want to use Rei to attract customers, we should have had her here
from the morning, instead of this time.

And it will be enough to have her stroll around as a promotional person, not as a
customer service person.

That way, there will definitely be a publicity effect, and since she won't be inside
the classrooms, there won't be a flood of customers.

That's the plan for tomorrow, Rei is supposed to act like that.

The reason Kinjou and his gang continue to make pointless claims is simply
because they want to cause us trouble.

And they want to make it seem like everything that has happened is all Otosaki
Rei's fault.

What's really frightening is that these guys haven't thought about the
consequences at all. They believe that as minors, they can get away with
anything under the protection of the law.

"......Yuusuke-kun, go ask the girls to call the teachers." (Rintaro)

"Huh? Oh, yeah. That's a good idea." (Yuusuke)

I whisper to Kakihara and induce him to tell the girls what to do.

Kinjou aside, the guys he brought along seem somewhat irritated.

It's often said not to judge a book by its cover, but they seem to have the kind of
unpleasant personalities that match their appearance. If they were to lose their
patience and cause a scene, the girls might get hurt.

If we evacuate the girls first, we can avoid such a situation.

Truly――――truly, they have caused a lot of trouble.

The worst part is that the "person in question" is here in this situation.

Checking the seats where they are sitting out of the corner of my eye, Kanon has
an angry expression, and Mia is sending worried looks to Rei. And Rei, the
person in question, has her back turned and her expression is not visible.
"......Kinjou, the teachers will be here soon. If that happens, you're going to be in
trouble, aren't you?"

"I am? In trouble? Are you an idiot? ......I'm just here stopping by and asking if
Rei is here or not. I haven't caused any problems. Even if these guys 'I
coincidentally met today' caught in any trouble, that's none of my concern."
(Kinjou)

I want to say it won't happen, but the fact is that because this guy shouted
unnecessary things, instead of decreasing, the number of customers has actually
increased.

Whether increasing customers can be considered a nuisance or not is no longer

something we can judge.

And if these guys themselves deny their involvement, there will be no element
for Kinjou to take responsibility.

It may not go smoothly according to their plan, but as someone like him who just
wants to cause trouble for us, I think it's enough to just say something
appropriate.

"Anyway, if Rei doesn't show up soon, should we start causing a scene?"

The four guys get up from their seats and begin wandering around with grins on
their faces.

They stare at the remaining public customers as if examining them, causing

discomfort on their faces.

Finally realizing that something was wrong, some people, including the two
female college students I was in charge of, left the classroom.

(…...Good.)

If this trend continues, those girls can also leave the classroom.

If they can just leave the classroom, everything else should be manageable. The
teacher will probably force them out, even if it's by force, and the situation will
be resolved.
"......We're leaving too." (Kanon)

Kanon in disguise leads Rei and Mia, trying to leave the classroom as I had
hoped.

However――――.

"My, my my my, you girls are so cute, aren't you? Totally my type!"

A guy from Kinjou's gang, who has been absentmindedly watching the leaving
customers, stands in front of the three.

I'm on the verge of clicking my tongue involuntarily.

Thanks to their excellent disguises, it seems that their true identities have not
been exposed, but seeing him stare so intently makes me inevitably uneasy.

"Hey, Kanecchi, can I have some fun with these girls?"

"Hey hey, do it in moderation, understand?" (Kinjou)

"I know, I know."

The brown-haired guy, who seems to be the worst women's enemy of all, takes
advantage of Kinjou's permission and reaches out to the girls.

"Aw man, it was a good idea to come along with Kanecchi today. I never thought
I'd get to play with such cuties."

As he says this, he presumptuously clasps Rei's shoulder.

At that moment, an unpleasant feeling wells up from the bottom of my chest,

causing the hair on my whole body to stand on end.

"Hey, stop it." (Rei)

"Oops..."

Wearing a displeased expression, Rei brushes off his arm. Despite being in the
wrong, he, who has been brushed away, furrows his brow in irritation for some
reason.
"Huh, what? Why the f*ck are you being so rough? You're really irritating me."

While complaining about the unreasonable anger, he twitches his left eyelid.

I sense a hint of madness in his reaction, warning me that it will be better not to
provoke him.

For some reason, it feels vaguely familiar, perhaps because he resembled the
scout guy who had accosted Mia on the street the other day.

"A~ah. If only she would just be affectionate and obedient. That guy, he really
hates it when women reject him the most." (Kinjou)

Kinjou's gang feigned a look of exasperation while narrowing their eyes in

amusement.

Sensing their impending danger, Rei and the girls draw closer to each other, their
wariness growing stronger.

"Huff, huff...... When a woman defies me, I seriously feel like my blood vessels
are going to burst in my head......"

The brown-haired guy reaches his hand out towards Rei again.

Seeing that his hand is about to reach for her head――――or her hair, to be
precise, I quickly grab a paper cup filled with water from a nearby table.

"Excuse me......" (Rintaro)

"Huh? ――――Bwha!?"

Aiming for his face, I splash the contents at him with force, leaving him looking
dumbfounded.

"Has your head cooled down, sir?" (Rintaro)

"Bastard...... I'll kill you."

Haha, that's not scary at all.

◇◆◇◆
Therefore, I can't afford to be hesitant here.

Since I've already splashed water on his face, apologizing for it as an accident
won't make any difference.

────But to begin with, I have no intention of apologizing.

"Are you screwing with me, you son of a b*tch?"

The brown-haired guy seems to have reached his peak of irritation and kicks the
nearby chair with full force.

The chair rolls with a loud noise, causing screams from the women customers.

The people in the hallway also sense something is wrong and quickly disperse
from the classroom.

"Hey...I told you to keep your behavior within reason, didn't I?" (Kinjou)

"Shut up! He's irritating me, so don't give me orders!"

Frustrated that his words don't get through, Kinjou clicks his tongue.

The brown-haired guy brushes off the moisture from his hair and grabs my
collar.

"Do you think you can pick a fight with me and get away with this easily, huh?"

"It wasn't even crossed in my mind at all...... I don't know you, and I certainly am
not the least bit afraid of a "lame-ass" guy who targets weaker opponents than
himself in the first place." (Rintaro)

"What...?"

The brown-haired man's face turns even redder with anger.

(It's about the time.)

As if to deliver the final blow, I put on a big smirk.

"Anyway, you're just a lackey who can't move without Kinjou's orders, aren't
you? Your pretend anger is getting boring. How about acting on your own
volition?" (Rintaro)

"......I'll kill you."

He raises his fist and aims it at me.

Kinjou and the gang rush to intervene, but before they can, his fist has already
caught my cheek.

"Ouch────!" (Rintaro)

"Say it again! You bastard!"

It hurts. It really hurts.

I've learned techniques to avoid getting hit in self-defense, but I've never been
trained to endure the pain of being hit.

But this is fine. With this, my plan has been fulfilled.

"You idiot! I told you to within moderation!" (Kinjou)

"Shut up, shut up, shut up! I haven't hit enough, damn it!"

"Tch... Hey! Let's get out of here! Take this idiot out!" (Kinjou)

The blond-haired guy is restrained, and the flustered Kinjou and the others drag
him out of the classroom.

Watching their backs, I exhale a deep breath.

"R-Rintaro, are you okay?" (Yuusuke)

"Huh? Yeah, I'm fine. Yuusuke-kun and you guys, are okay too?" (Rintaro)

"We're fine, but... you're bleeding..." (Yuusuke)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

When I wipe my mouth with my finger, there's blood on it.

It seems that I got a cut by the impact of being hit.

Well, I guess I'll have to say this is tolerable.

"You're amazing. Did you intentionally let yourself get hit?" (Ryuuji)

"......Well yeah. Although it feels like it went a little too well." (Rintaro)

With Doumoto's help, I stand up.

My plan is based on two main scenarios.

One is that Kinjou and the others were just bluffing, and they didn't actually
intend to resort to violence.

Despite all the excuses they made, they were aware that it could eventually
become a problem, and I first considered the possibility that they wanted to keep
the harassment to a minimum level so that they could cover it up at the very
least.

If it became a clear case of violence, there was a limit to how much they could
get away with, no matter how many excuses they made.

That was why they ran away.

And another possible scenario is that they were just plain stupid.

Without thinking about the consequences, if they had just acted recklessly for the
sake of harassment, the damage would have been much worse.

Anyway, if they were just going to wreak havoc in the classroom, all they had to
do was resort to violence against random people, yelling, "Bring REI out!".

The fact that they didn't proceed with that made the second scenario highly
unlikely. That's why I deliberately exposed myself to the guy who seemed most
vulnerable to provocation.

I ultimately won the bet, but I can't help feeling relieved that things went so well.

"Everyone! Are you okay!" (Harukawa-sensei)

"......Harukawa-sensei."

Breathless, our homeroom teacher, Harukawa-sensei, burst into the classroom.

Upon seeing the partially vandalized classroom and my bruised face, she wears a
pained expression.

"I heard that students from another school were causing trouble, but Shidou-kun,
your face is......" (Harukawa-sensei)

"I'm sorry for causing concern. But I'm okay, so please take care of the
customers and the girls." (Rintaro)

"...If you say so, Shidou-kun, then I'll do so. But please go to the infirmary and
get checked. It looks like you're bleeding." (Harukawa-sensei)

"Yes, I understand." (Rintaro)

The situation is temporarily under control, but continuing today's business will
be impossible.

Leaving the cleanup to Kakihara and the others, I head to the infirmary as
Harukawa-sensei had suggested.

The hallway around the infirmary, where there's nothing on display, is deserted.

Because of this, I quickly realized that "she" is standing there waiting for me.

"────Rei." (Rintaro)

"......Yes." (Rei)

Leaning against the wall, she looks somewhat apologetic.

"Are all the three of you fine?" (Rintaro)

"Yes, we're fine. But, Rintaro, you're......" (Rei)

"I'm fine. It's no big deal at all." (Rintaro)

As I said, my injuries aren't a big deal.

I'm not just putting on a brave face or trying to act cool.

But even though I convey that, it seems like Rei isn't convinced.

"Hey, Rintaro." (Rei)

She tugs at the edge of my jacket and looks into my eyes.

"I'm sorry for causing you pain, and thank you for protecting me. ────But...
please don't do anything dangerous like that again." (Rei)

As I listen to her emotionally charged plea, I find myself unable to say anything.

Her fingertips are trembling slightly, conveying a sense of fear.

It seems to have sprouted not because she found herself in a predicament, but
because she cared for me.

"......Sorry for making you worry." (Rintaro)

"No, Rintaro, you don't need to apologize. I will be more careful from now on."
(Rei)

Even though I could now more easily discern Rei's emotional expressions, this
one is entirely new to me.

I might be a little nuts for feeling that it was worth getting injured just to witness
this.

Anyway, for now, I guess────I will stay by her side until she calms down.

◇◆◇◆

After that commotion.

It seemed Kinjou and his gang left the school, and they didn't cause any more
problems.

Since the teachers were looking for him, he would probably be questioned
thoroughly when he came to school next. Even so, it would be better if he were
to be suspended from school.
Returning to the classroom after the treatment in the infirmary, Kakihara and the
others, who seemed to have calmed down, welcomed me.

"We discussed it a bit with the rest, and we decided not to tell Otosaki-san about
what happened today. It would be unfortunate if she felt responsible for what
happened." (Yuusuke)

I want to express my gratitude to everyone who came to that conclusion, but

saying thank you might complicate things, so I just agreed.

Later, I'll have to coordinate with Rei and make sure our stories match.

────So, this is what happened on the first day of our school festival.
 Chapter 9: The Post-festival Closing Party

"Otosaki-san is really popular, isn't she?" (Yukio)

Standing next to me, Yukio murmurs as he looks at the crowd gathered in the
schoolyard.

In the center of the crowd is our idol, Otosaki Rei.

"This should have a great promotional effect, don't you think?" (Yukio)

"You're right." (Rintaro)

Although I think it's a little too overdone, though.

Today is the second day of the school festival.

Our maid and butler café is allowed to operate as usual since yesterday's issue
didn't turn into a big deal.

As for the person responsible for the incident, Kinjou, it seems he did not receive
much punishment because I did not strongly appeal to the authorities.

However, I heard that he was suspended from school for around a week and that
he could not prevent a report from being sent to the modeling agency with which
he had a contract.

It will probably affect his future entertainment activities, but it's better than being
involved in a criminal case.

[Otosaki-san is so cute......]

[Isn't REI's maid outfit like a premium item?]

[I want to date her... I want to date her for real.]

[C-can I take a picture with her?]

As we approach the crowd, voices of affirmation for Rei can be heard from
seniors, classmates, and juniors alike.

I'm as happy about Otosaki Rei's popularity as if it were my own.

But――――deep down, for some reason, it hurts a bit.

"...More importantly, Rintaro, it's finally today." (Yukio)

"Hmm? Oh, yeah. It's been quite chaotic lately, so it doesn't quite feel real."

After today's school festival, our post-festival closing party will begin.

It's a place to showcase our practice results and at the same time, it can be a
turning point in Kakihara's future school life――――and even his life.

There's a great possibility he won't confess, but whether he does or not will
greatly affect his life, and I'm not lying about that.

Perhaps the recent illness was a turning point for him, as his nervousness was at
a minimum.

At least he doesn't seem to be overly tense, which is a relief.

"This is my first time doing something like this, so I need to stay focused."
(Rintaro)

"...Do your best, Rintaro." (Yukio)

"Yeah." (Rintaro)

Yukio probably never thought I would be on stage.

It wouldn't be surprising if he thought it didn't suit me.

But, his smile showed pure anticipation.

It's the expectation of my best friend. So I want to live up to it.

(I've done everything I can...)

Looking down at the palm of my hand, I see the calluses that have formed on my
fingertips.

This is my proof of all the effort I've put in. It's been a result of one thing that
started in the summer, both enjoyable and painful.

The saying that "hard work pays off" may sound like a cliche, but I can
understand it when I think about how it wasn't all for nothing.

At any rate, the result of all the effort I've put in will be my support from now
on――――.

"Well, for now, let's finish today's work. We won't be able to enjoy the closing
party if the school festival doesn't end successfully." (Rintaro)

"You're right!" (Yukio)

I still have some kitchen work to do.

Let's finish it quickly and prepare for the afternoon.

◇◆◇

"Everyone! Good job for the past two days!" (Yuusuke)

"""Good job!!!"""

Following Kakiwara's lead, we raised our paper cups.

In the afternoon, after finishing our business without any particular trouble, we
hold our remaining drinks and commend each other for our hard work.

Although the sales during the time we worked as butlers on the first day were
slightly dropped thanks to Kinjo, on the second day, there was no particular
impact. If anything, Rei's promotional activities seemed to have been too
effective, as the sales didn't change much from the first day, even though there
shouldn't have been any public customers.

"The post-festival closing party is optional, so from here on, we're all free to
disperse. Really, everyone, good job until today." (Yuusuke)

"Hey hey! You guys are going to be on stage at the closing party, right? I'll make
sure to see your performance before I leave."

Seeing our classmates grinning, Kakiwara scratches his head in embarrassment.

"I-I see... I and Ryuuji and Rintaro worked hard, so please come and see us."
(Yuusuke)

"Don't be shy!"

Watching Kakiwara being roughhoused by the guys, I can't help but find it
amusing.

In the midst of that, Nikaido and Nogi approached me.

"Hey, Shidou-kun. Did my bass come in handy?" (Honoka)

"Yeah. I've been using it carefully." (Rintaro)

"Hmm hmm, glad to hear." (Honoka)

Nogi also seems somewhat pleased and satisfied.

Perhaps she has been worried about letting her treasure go to waste all this time.

"Are Nikaido-san and Nogi-san going to the closing party? If you're willing, I'd
like you to come and see." (Rintaro)

"We'll be there. We have to properly witness you guys' big moment!" (Honoka)

Nogi cheerfully announces, and next to her, Nikaido fidgets with her hands and
mutters with a slightly flushed face.

"About that... Kakihara-kun really wanted me to come and see, so... that's why."
(Azusa)

――――Ooh, well done, Kakihara.

"...I see. Then, we have to make sure to see them!" (Honoka)

Nogi, still with a happy expression, grabs Nikaido's hand and shakes it.

Nikaido becomes flustered by the momentum, but in the end, she doesn't seem
entirely displeased, much like Kakihara.

(I see you've made up your mind, Kakihara.)

By the fact that he directly asked Nikaido, Kakihara must have intended to
confess.

Even though he must have been suffering so much, the fact that he was able to
show his usual refreshing face, unlike at that time, might mean that he has
somehow managed to overcome something.

Although he must have suffered so much at that time, he now is able to put on
his usual fresh face, maybe it's because he was able to overcome it
somehow――――Although I don't know how.

For some reason, I find myself feeling nervous.

Yeah, it's embarrassing to say it myself.

"Hmm... huh?" (Honoka)

"What's wrong? Honoka." (Azusa)

"Well, come to think of it, isn't Otosaki-san gone?" (Honoka)

As to what Nogi said, Rei's figure is not visible in the classroom.

I had noticed that, but I had concluded on my own that she must be in the
restroom or something.

Then, suddenly, the school broadcast begins to echo from the speakers installed
in the classroom.

[Ah, testing.]

The voice that seems to be a microphone test sounds familiar.

"Huh, Otosaki-san...?" (Azusa)

As Nikaido said, this voice is undoubtedly Rei's.

Amidst the confusion of my classmates, she continued her words through the
speaker.

[Umm... Hello, I'm Otosaki Rei. To all the students at the school, thank you for
your hard work in succeeding the school festival.] (Rei)

Hearing her faltering voice, the classroom and the hallway fall silent to hear her
continued words.

[Including the preparation period, I wasn't able to be involved in the school

festival very much. And yet, I heard rumors that everyone in my class was
getting into trouble because of me.] (Rei)

The classroom becomes slightly buzzy.

Since it had been decided that the incident with Kinjou was not to be told to Rei,
it must be awkward that the situation is already known.

What they don't know is that she was there and was almost harmed, so it's
inevitable that she already knows about it.

[Today, I want to make amends for that, so I'm borrowing the broadcasting room
like this.] (Rei)

Please look at the schoolyard――――.

In response to Rei's words, we look outside from the classroom window.

In the schoolyard in front of us, there are preparations for a campfire and the
foundation of the closing party stage.

And on that stage, there are two figures.

"Huh?! Aren't those KANON and MIA?!"

"No way?! Seriously?!"

The excitement spread among my classmates.

Those two are definitely Kanon and Mia.

When both of them notice that we are watching, they wave towards the school
building.

At that moment, cheers erupt from the entire school.

[As a prelude to the post-festival closing party, we, Millefeuille Stars, will
borrow the stage for a little while. We hope you enjoy it.]

With those words as the conclusion, the school broadcast ends.

――――Needless to say, everyone left the classroom in unison.

◇◆◇◆

Before I knew it, many students had gathered in front of the stage set up in the
schoolyard.

It may be an exaggeration to say "all the students," but at least 80% of them
seem to be there.

"WHOOAAAAAAAAA! It's KANON in the fleeeeeesh!"

"MIA-samaaaaaaaaaa! MIA-sama, look over here, pleaseee!"

The two on the stage respond to the cheers by waving their hands.

With just that simple action, the entire schoolyard is enveloped in even louder
cheers.

Truly, it's as can be expected from idols.

[Everyone! Thanks for going along with our REI's whims!] (KANON)

"""No problem at all!"""

[All of you are so kind, I'm happy! But since we're here like this, we'll do
our best to make it as exciting as possible!] (KANON)

"""WHOAAAAAA!"""
When KANON is in her idol outfit, she gives a completely different impression
than usual.

She is known in the public eye as a lively and energetic girl, and she indeed puts
that part of herself out there. However, to me, she gives off a strong impression
of being reliable.

Her pride in perfectly fulfilling her role as an idol seems to be fully on display.

Perhaps this is the impression I got because I know the usual Kanon.

It feels somewhat special, and I don't feel bad about it.

[Today, we're going to perform our classic song and a new one. Please enjoy
until the end!] (MIA)

"""Kyaaaaa! Mia-samaaaaa!"""

When Mia speaks, the cheers from the girls become even louder.

Truly, as can be expected of a prince-like character. ――――But I know that

she wants to be a "girl" more than anyone else.

That fact also fills my insignificant self with a sense of superiority.

[Hey, geez! You're late!] (KANON)

KANON says as she looks behind us, the audience.

When we all turn in that direction, we see Rei walking leisurely towards us.

She's already changed into her stage costume, and the decorations resembling
jewels on her clothes are sparkling in the sunlight.

"Sorry, I'm going now." (REI)

We open the way for Rei to pass through to the stage.

It seems like she was planning to go around the outside and head to the stage, as
she looks surprised and bows her head to the students who made way for her.
[Umm... Once again, thank you for your hard work during the two days of
the school festival.]

Rei, wearing a chest-mounted microphone, says so as she looks at all of us.

We all listen to her quietly.

[Once again, I apologize to those who were inconvenienced because of me.

And also to everyone in Class 2-A. I'm sorry for not being able to help with
the school festival preparations and on the day itself...]

Rei bows her head.

Kanon, Mia, and all of us. Everyone silently watches her.

I didn't want to talk about this kind of thing, but the truth is that there are quite a
few people who harbor negative feelings towards Rei.

Some say she's too high and mighty, or that she's getting too full of herself, or
that she's just a nuisance by being at school. Heartless conversations like these
can be heard as long as you're at this school.

Rei probably hears them too.

There should have been a more suitable school for REI of the Millefeuille Stars.

Even so, the fact that she chose this school means that she must have come with
some kind of determination, even though she didn't tell us the reason.

In the midst of all this, Rei might be putting her body on the line like this in the
hopes of being accepted even just a little.

This could be the trigger for even more people to dislike Rei――――Well,
there's no use just thinking about unpleasant things.

All I can do is simply watch over this.

[Well then... please listen. "Summer Over".]

Then, the intro of the song begins to play which I don't really remember hearing,
only that I heard her humming at home.
This is Millefeuille Stars' new song.

The lyrics of the song, which features a girl who doesn't want summer to end,
resonated with everyone. It's a dilemma of feeling happy that it's no longer hot,
yet feeling sad as it becomes colder.

Every year, a different summer comes, and every year, we feel the sadness of a
summer that will never come again.

We just listen, completely absorbed in the song.

And as the song ended, an unprecedentedly loud cheer erupted, engulfing the
stage.

Some students are in tears of joy at being able to hear MilleSta's new song up
close.

Thinking of watching a live performance in this kind of atmosphere, it's no

wonder that everyone feels a little melancholy.

[The next song is the last one.] (MIA)

[The last song is our signature song! If you know it, please sing along with
us!] (KANON)

Upon hearing Kanon and Mia's words, those who understood cheered loudly.

When it comes to their signature song, there is only one.

[――――Please listen, "Millefeuille Star".]

MilleSta's debut song, "Millefeuille Star". It boasts a notoriety surpassing the

songs used in commercials, it goes without saying that it's their signature song.

The fans, whose excitement was already high, joined in enthusiastically.

With the audience participation, the song became even more exciting, and the
three of them gradually got more energized.

If I were just a fan, this time today would have been a lifelong memory.
I am reminded once again how much of a luxurious time I usually spend.

"......Ah."

At that moment, I feel a gaze and turn to it.

It comes from the center of the stage. Amidst many students, Rei found me, and
our eyes met.

――――[Do your best.]

I can somehow hear those words in Rei's gaze.

(This is the return from that day, huh.)

On that day, Rei choked up during MilleSta's live performance.

I had raised my voice to her, but in such a large venue, it probably didn't reach
her at all.

What reached her was probably just my gaze.

Even I wasn't certain of it, but by returning the gaze like this, I felt that it had
indeed been conveyed.

I can't help but smile at how happy this interaction made me.

"...... I guess I'll give all my best." (Rintaro)

I'm just a simple boy, who for getting spurred on to do my very best by the
encouragement of a girl.

I'll have to thank her later.

――――Before I become unable to convey anything at all.

"......" (Rintaro)

I grit my teeth and leave the crowd in front of the stage.

It's about time we have to get ready.

Let's forget the unpleasant things for now and just focus on today.

Just like a summer that has passed once, today, once it's over, it won't come back
again.

◇◆◇◆

After retrieving my bass in the classroom, I return to the schoolyard and make
my way to the backstage.

By that time, MilleSta's live performance had already ended, and the students
were standing at a loose end.

Some stay behind to see them off, but most are planning to spend the rest of the
night as usual.

"Ah, Rintaro." (Kanon)

"You're talking to me so casually, huh?" (Rintaro)

"Well, there's no one else around." (Kanon)

The fact that there are still people waiting to see MilleSta off, means they haven't
left the backstage area yet.

I didn't plan on seeing them, but in retrospect, it's only natural for us to bump
into each other.

"Anyway, we won't be able to leave for a while, so we might as well listen to

your performance before we go." (Kanon)

"Hey...... Don't put pressure on me like that." (Rintaro)

"It'll be okay. You've practiced enough, so have confidence." (Kanon)

It's frustrating to be told by Kanon, who is the best at playing instruments, that I
should be a little more confident.

She seems to understand this and looks at me with teasing eyes.

I decided to resist at least the urge to thank her.

"I'm also planning on watching. As your fan, I must see you perform on the big
stage." (Mia)

"My fan? Are you kidding me?" (Rintaro)

"Nay, I genuinely mean it. This heart of mine is completely devoted to solely
you." (Mia)

Her way of speaking is a bit old-fashioned.

It's hard to tell if Mia is being truthful or not.

Well, I should probably just take it as a joke.

"Speaking of which, can you really leave without causing a commotion? There
are still a lot of people at the closing party......" (Rintaro)

"Don't worry. We'll disguise ourselves and blend in with the school's uniform."
(Rei)

Following Rei, Kanon boasts that she can do plain makeup, so I had to accept it.

I can't just keep worrying about them.

[Hey, Yuusuke, don't drop the cymbals, okay?] (Ryuuji)

[I know...... Ugh, It's surprisingly heavy.] (Yuusuke)

I hear a familiar voice from the other side of the stage.

We have to start pretending to be strangers soon.

"Oh, Rintaro! You were here before us!" (Ryuuji)

"Yeah. Ah, you were carrying the drums. Sorry, I wasn't very helpful." (Rintaro)

"Oh, this? Don't worry about it. I was just asked to carry it by the brass band
instructor, and ended up being used." (Ryuuji)

As he says this, Doumoto begins to place the drum set in an empty space.
I go to help Kakihara with the cymbals and place them in the same spot.

Then Doumoto, who has just taken a break, notices the three of them who are
standing behind him.

"What?! Y-you were still here――――No, I mean, you guys have not left yet?"
(Ryuuji)

"Ah, sorry. We can't leave right away because it'll cause a commotion. Can you
allow us to stay here until we find a chance to leave?" (Mia)

"O-o-of-of-of course!" (Ryuuji)

Doumoto, the epitome of manliness and the man that all boys aspire to be, is
now bowing his head and shrinking himself.

Sorry to say, but I really didn't want to see him like this.

Well, I guess this just proves that he is a genuinely pure-hearted man.

"O-Otosaki-san...... Umm, as a member of the class culture festival committee, I

just wanted to you know that...... we never thought you weren't helping us at all.
So I really hope you don't feel guilty about it." (Yuusuke)

"Yes, thank you. Hearing that does make me feel a little better." (Rei)

With Kakihara's words, Rei's expression softens.

Having someone express it in words was a source of relief.

"――――By the way, what should we call ourselves when we go on stage?"

(Ryuuji)

"Huh?" (Yuusuke)

"Don't you think we should have a band name? Everyone else seems to have
decided on one. I saw the list with the order of performances." (Ryuuji)

Come to think of it, we never discussed choosing a band name.

I didn't plan on performing in public again, so there was no intention to decide

on one in the first place.

"Do you think it's necessary to have one? Even if we think of one, I feel a bit
awkward proudly presenting it......" (Yuusuke)

"But isn't it kind of uncool? Right now, we're registered as the Kakihara Band,
you know?" (Ryuuji)

Yup, that does sound uncool.

"For example... Millefeuille Boys――――J-just kidding!" (Ryuuji)

――――I wonder if it's okay to use that name.

Although Doumoto seems to be joking, he's sneakily glancing at the reactions of

the three members of MilleSta.

Thanks to him, the hurdle seems to have lowered considerably.

"I think it's okay. Millefeuille Boys." (Rei)

"......Huh?" (Ryuuji)

Rei's abrupt approval shattered the indescribable atmosphere created by his joke.

Unexpectedly, Rei thinks that the name "Mille-feuille Boys" is okay. It's no
wonder Doumoto lets out a silly sound.

"O-Otosaki-san...... We can?" (Rintaro)

"Yup. The Millefeuille name itself isn't really ours to begin with." (Rei)

Rei responds nonchalantly to my question.

While I feel that this is not the issue, there's no way we can come up with a
better name right away.

Kakihara and Doumoto both seem perplexed, so it seems like we have no choice
but to go with this name for now.

"Well, isn't it interesting? Others will probably think you guys are aiming for
attention." (Kanon)

"T-that's true! Hehehe!" (Ryuuji)

In response to Kanon's teasing, Doumoto scratches his cheek in embarrassment.

――――Doumoto is a boy, after all.

"So...... our band name is Millefeuille Boys. Ryuuji, Rintaro, is that okay with
you guys?" (Yuusuke)

With a nod, both I and Doumoto agree.

And so, quietly, our band name is decided.

◇◆◇◆

"H-hello! We are Millefeuille Boys!" (Yuusuke)

When Kakihara stands in front of the stage mic and makes this announcement,
the audience bursts into laughter.

It's a relief to know that the audience is responding well to our intended humor.

Honestly, I was worried about whether the fanatic fans would throw garbage at
us.

"Kakihara-ku~n, you're so cool!"

"We came to see you! Doumoto~!"

"Umm... Who's that guy on bass?"

I can hear voices like that, and I can't help but smile.

Thanks to Kakihara and Doumoto's popularity, about thirty to forty people had
gathered.

It's quite impressive to have more than a class worth of people gathered here.

And crucially there, I see Nikaido as well.

"Err... before we begin, we've practiced quite a bit for this
moment." (Yuusuke)

As Kakihara begins speaking, the audience gradually hushed.

This might be a testament to his charisma or his ability to lead people.

"Up until today, I have caused trouble for these two who chose to stand on
this stage with me. So first of all, I would like to express my gratitude to
them for still choosing to stand on this stage with me despite that."
(Yuusuke)

Cut it out, aren't you embarrassed?

――――I put on a face expressing that words. Well, to be honest, I am a little

embarrassed.

Doumoto seems genuinely embarrassed as he plays the cymbals discreetly.

"And to everyone who came to see our performance, thank you very much.
It's just one song, but please stay with us." (Yuusuke)

Cheers erupt and fill the air.

As Kakihara starts speaking into the mic, more and more people are drawn to the
sound of his voice.

There may have already been more than fifty or sixty people gathered.

But strangely enough, I don't feel nervous at all.

(That's probably because we practiced so much.)

I glance at the bass Nogi had given me.

Somehow, I never found the practice to be too difficult.

Although my fingertips would peel and I would take breaks, I felt happy
knowing that I had practiced so much.

Besides, I was standing next to those girls who were performing hundreds or
thousands of times larger than this at every show.

This level of pressure is nothing.

"Can you do it, guys?" (Yuusuke)

Glancing at me and Doumoto, Kakihara says so.

We don't say anything, just nod in response.

"Now, please listen――――" (Yuusuke)

Announcing the song title, Kakihara strums his guitar.

As he begins to weave the song, he captivates the audience's attention.

Once Kakihara's intro solo ends, that's when me and Doumoto join in.

The start is good. The high tension makes the tempo slightly faster, but it isn't
unnaturally fast. It's much easier to keep up with than being strangely slow.

(...This is so fun.)

It's impossible to eliminate mistakes.

But compared to when we first started, it's clearly smoother, and I'm confident
that I'm not dragging Kakihara and Doumoto down.

Above all, it's fun.

"!" (Rintaro)

As we enter the chorus, Doumoto's drums become even more intense.

I briefly glance at Kakihara.

Our eyes meet, and I can't help but raise the corners of my mouth slightly.

Somehow, I felt like I was being told, "Go for it."

(Alright...!)
So I step forward.

I play more intensely than usual.

Although I have a bad habit of looking at the strings while playing, today I
forcibly ignore it.

As I raise my head towards the audience.

"Ah......" (Rintaro)

Everyone's eyes are fixed on us.

Without a doubt, we're the main characters in this place.

A thrilling sensation surges through my back.

This is bad, it may become addictive.

The song progresses, reaching its final chorus.

There's no need to hold anything back now.

We pour all our best into the music.

Using up every ounce of our energy is fine. We go forward with that level of
determination.

As the end approaches, a poignant feeling of it all coming to an end wells up

inside me.

There likely won't be another time for me to perform on stage with Kakihara and
Doumoto.

So, I don't want to hold back. I put everything we practiced into this moment,
with the feeling that it's okay to end here.

"――――!" (Yuusuke)

Kakihara shouts the final lyrics.

I believe we have given it our all.

Despite not being the vocalist, I find myself out of breath, placing my hands on
my knees.

Then, the bass hanging from my shoulder almost scrapes the floor, so I hurriedly
support it.

I don't want to accidentally damage it here.

"Come on, Rintaro. Lift your head." (Ryuuji)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

Doumoto taps my shoulder, and I unintentionally look up.

"""WHOAAAAAAAAAAA!"""

A mix of male and female cheers shower down on us.

Of course, it's only a fraction of the enthusiasm compared to the girls'

performance, but this space was undeniably created by us.

"Haah, with this the stage is set...... Go, Yuusuke?" (Ryuuji)

"Ryuuji......." (Yuusuke)

Doumoto pushes Kakihara's back, and then he steps back with me.

From here on, it's solely Kakihara's stage.

"Guys...... Thank you." (Yuusuke)

"Go for it, Yuusuke-kun." (Rintaro)

Nodding, Kakihara once again stands in front of the microphone.

After a few seconds, he raises his face and opens his mouth.

"...Finally, there's something I want to convey in this opportunity and this

place." (Yuusuke)
The audience murmurs.

Declaring that he has something to convey here means attempting to carry out
the school's urban legend.

The confession by Kakihara Yuusuke, who is arguably the most popular guy in
the school, is sure to cause great turmoil to those who know him.

"I have, someone I've liked since my first grade. ――――Nikaido Azusa-
san." (Yuusuke)

At the mention of her name, everyone's attentions are focused on Nikaido, who
is among the audience.

She has a serious expression and is looking straight at Kakihara.

"Azusa, I've...... I've liked you for so long! Please, go out with me!"
(Yuusuke)

Kakihara finally spoke those important words. Even without the mic, his voice is
loud enough for everyone to hear.

After a moment of silence, Nikaido slowly walks to the front of the stage.

"――――If you're okay with me, then...... Yes, with pleasure." (Azusa)
Responding to Kakihara's confession, Nikaido has a joyful, happy, and
seemingly fragile smile.

This moment is undoubtedly precious.

That's why it looks fleeting and has the power to sway someone's feelings.

"Ryuuji, Rintaro! I-I......!" (Yuusuke)

"Go get her. We'll take care of the stage." (Ryuuji)

Why is he willingly taking on such a troublesome task? That's what I want to say,
but, well———For today, I think it's fine.

Seeing him off with a smile, Kakihara jumps off the stage and heads for Nikaido.

Then, the two hold hands and bow to us and the audience.

"It's kind of...... emotional, isn't it?" (Ryuuji)

Doumoto mutters beside me, his voice trembling slightly.

I try not to look at his face and start cleaning up the stage.

How much had he worried about Kakihara and Nikaido's relationship? Even
without seeing his face, I can understand that from his voice alone.

"――――Good job, you deserved it, Kakihara." (Rintaro)

Glancing at Kakihara and Nikaido, who are being congratulated by their

acquaintances, I put Kakihara's guitar into its case.

◇◆◇◆

After Rintaro and the others' live performance, there's a confession by Kakihara-
kun on stage.

The three of us quietly listen to his confession.

"――――How nice, being young." (Kanon)

Hearing the cheers at the moment of his successful confession, Kanon murmurs.

It sounds a bit like an old lady would say.

"Rei, you thought I sounded like an old lady just now, didn't you?" (Kanon)

......Is she an esper?

"...Hmph, well, whatever." (Kanon)

Kanon, with a somewhat sullen expression, settles into the prepared chair.

Without looking at me and Mia, she resumes with a question.

"Do you feel envious of them?" (Kanon)

Those words are surely directed at what they had just experienced on stage,
something that could be called youthness.

I glance at Mia for a moment.

Mia looks at me with a troubled expression, then returns her gaze to Kanon.

"...I do. Because it's something we can't experience right now." (Mia)

Mia's words are true.

No one of us regrets becoming an idol.

We're well aware that not everyone can become one, and we're proud of it.

――――But still.

I can't lie about feeling envious of them.

"We became idols and gained a lot, but at the same time, we lost a lot too. Even
though I know I sacrificed it myself...... but I can't help feeling envious." (Mia)

"......Well, they do say the grass is always greener on the neighbor's lawn. I agree
with that." (Kanon)
I nod in agreement with their words.

We didn't sacrifice our normal high school lives because we wanted to.

Even if we sacrificed it, it was because we had something we wanted to achieve.

"Rei, Mia... how long do you think we'll continue being idols?" (Kanon)

Mia and I choke on our words in response to Kanon's question.

It's a topic we have been thinking about for a long time, but no one has brought it
up as a topic of discussion.

When, will we "retire"――――.

"I...... I don't think I'll retire any time soon. I want to become an actress overseas
someday, but that's still a long way off." (Mia)

Mia has an audition for a movie soon.

Both I and Kanon support her, and I believe she'll definitely pass.

"What about you, Rei? Have you thought about when you'll retire?" (Kanon)

"I... " (Rei)

My dream is to do a large-scale live performance at Nippon Budokan.

That dream hasn't changed since my debut.

When that dream comes true, I'm sure I'll――――.

"Hmm? I see, you've made up your mind, huh?" (Kanon)

"Huh?" (Rei)

"We're talking about retiring. You don't seem to be hesitating at all." (Kanon)

Certainly, I might as well say that I've already made up my mind.

"If I could perform a live performance at Nippon Budokan... at the very least, I
think I'd be satisfied." (Rei)

"At Nippon Budokan? With where we are now, there's a possibility it could
happen within a year, you know?" (Kanon)

"Yes, but――――" (Rei)

Honestly, I'm still undecided about whether to retire or not.

I still don't know what will remain for me once I'm no longer an idol.

"Is it okay, Rei?" (Mia)

"Huh?" (Rei)

"If you're not an idol anymore, you might not be able to support Rintaro-kun,
you know?" (Mia)

As I'm taken aback, Mia continues with a serious expression.

"Rintaro-kun's dream is to focus on housework without working and support the

woman who becomes his wife for life, right? So, the person becoming his wife
needs to have a decent income." (Mia)

"That's... I think that's true." (Rei)

"You should be able to continue working in the entertainment industry after

retiring as an idol. But it's not certain. There's a real possibility that your
popularity might decline and you might lose your earnings." (Mia)

I, I can't say anything.

If I were told I didn't have a resolve, that would be enough, but there might be a
part of me that still thought of myself as a child.

"――――I already make up my resolve." (Mia)

Mia's unwavering gaze captures me.

I was just bewildered, not understanding the true meaning behind those eyes.
"I'm resolved to support Rintaro-kun for life. I'll definitely succeed as an actress
and make sure he'll live a life without any discomfort." (Mia)

"Y-you... isn't that...?" (Kanon)

Kanon looks at Mia with unbelieving eyes.

So do I.

I never expected Mia will develop the same feelings as me――――.

"...I feel bad for you, Rei, but I can't lie to myself... or rather, I don't want to hide
it in front of you."(Mia)

"Mia..." (Rei)

"I also――――" (Mia)

――――love Rintaro-kun.

"!" (Rei)

It's not like I didn't anticipate this would happen.

Sometimes mean, unfriendly, and lazy.

Despite acting that way, but actually kind and caring, thoughtful.

Like when he was in his butler uniform, if he tidied himself up properly, you can
see that his face is more handsome than you'd imagine, also he regularly
exercises, so he's surprisingly muscular.

When he smiles, he looks like a little boy and it's cute, and his hands are big but
his fingers are slender and sexy.

He's good at cooking, and he's really good at cleaning and laundry as well.

And most of all――――just being with him makes me feel at ease.

With all of those good points, there's no way I'm the only one who's fallen for
someone like Rintaro.
Although I should be the only one who knows all of those.

"I don't think Rintaro-kun sees me as a romantic interest yet right now. So I'm
going to go more aggressive from now on. More than you, Rei." (Mia)

Mia's face is somehow dazzling as she confidently declares this.

The impatience I've been holding back overflowed, squeezing my heart.

"......Whatever you do, but it would be really lame if your discord led to
disbandment. Please avoid that, okay?" (Kanon)

"Don't worry, Kanon. Even if Rintaro-kun chooses Rei over me, I won't resent
Rei." (Mia)

"Hmm, then...... what about you, Rei?" (Kanon)

Kanon's gaze turns to me, and I can't help but flinch.

I. How will I be?

Will I be able to remain calm when I see Mia and Rintaro walking together?

(......Probably, no.)

My chest tightened even more.

I love Rintaro and Mia.

I don't want to fight with Mia, and I really don't want MilleSta to fall apart.

Can I handle it like Mia does――――

"Fufu, a group splitting up over just one guy...... it's such a cliché." (Kanon)

"Kanon......" (Rei)

"It's so cliché that it's not even funny." (Kanon)

After quickly finishing her disguise, Kanon stands up and walks towards the
exit.
"Even if things go sour between you two, I won't allow disbandment." (Kanon)

"Huh...?" (Rei)

"Knowing him, if he knows that MilleSta disbands because of him, he'll feel
responsible and distance himself from us." (Kanon)

It's entirely possible if it's Rintaro.

Hence, we absolutely must avoid that.

"I probably, have some feelings for him too...... though not as strong as you
two." (Kanon)

"...Kanon too?" (Rei)

"Don't get me wrong, I'm not as into him as you two are, okay? Among the
opposite sex, I think Rintaro is the best guy――――that's all." (Kanon)

I can't help but connect it to feelings of love, but it seems different for Kanon.

I feel a little relieved.

"Anyway, Rintaro's life right now is mostly dependent on you, right? You're
even paying the rent." (Kanon)

"Yes." (Rei)

"If that's the case, then we have to take good care of him until he finds someone
else, or until either of you has a clear plan to support him for life. At least until
then, disbanding is absolutely out of the question." (Kanon)

Certainly, that's true.

"Anything is fine at this point, but don't be irresponsible. I believe in both of

you." (Kanon)

"...I know it. Thank you, Kanon." (Rei)

"Hmph." (Kanon)
Turning away, Kanon leaves backstage.

It's about time for the next performers to arrive.

So we need to leave soon.

"Well, I guess I'll head home now. I only stayed because I wanted to see
Rintaro's big moment." (Mia)

"Mia...... I......" (Rei)

"......You don't need to rush to give an answer, you know." (Mia)

"What do you mean?" (Rei)

"As long as we're idols, I don't think he'll date either of us. I think you
understand that better." (Mia)

Mia's words make sense.

Rintaro is trying to support us, and he really wants to avoid anything that might
break "Mille-feuille Stars".

Maybe the real battle will come when we are no longer idols.

By then, I need to find a new path.

"Phew... Sorry for suddenly stirring things up today. I'll let you take over from
here, as an apology. Well, it's not really an apology, but what I mean is, I'll leave
the rest to you." (Mia)

"The rest?" (Rei)

"The closing party isn't over yet, right? Enjoy it with Rintaro-kun. I'm not happy
about it, but I'll make my move from tomorrow." (Mia)

With a challenging smile, Mia, in a simple disguise, leaves backstage.

Mia really is so cool after all.

But that's exactly why I don't want to lose. From the bottom of my heart, that's
what I think.

"......I have to go." (Rei)

I have to see Rintaro.

Feeling that impulse, I have already jumped out of the backstage area.
 Chapter 10: The School Festival

Under the darkening sky, the orange flames of the campfire are casting light
across the ground.

Kakihara and Nikaido are hanging around the campfire, chatting shyly.

Then there are Doumoto and Nogi a little further away, it seems like they are
also having fun.

"This is how...... youth should be." (Rintaro)

The youth I longed for is right here.

It is a refreshing moment, different from the bitter one at the pool from before.

――――No.

Maybe it's because of those bitter moments that I can appreciate the present
beauty.

Understanding something that's just a concept is tough, and I am sure that this is
only a part of the formless thing called "youth". Even if it's just a little, I'm
happy to have understood it.

Well, just because I understand it doesn't mean I can do anything about it.

(Man, I'm so alone.) (Rintaro)

Leaning against the school building's wall, the lonely me is absentmindedly

gazing at the fire from a distance.

For Yukio, he should be dancing with Miyamoto-san around the campfire at this
time, who has been showing interest in him for a while now,
Around the campfire, there are only groups of boys and girls hanging out.

Those not part of these groups are making a ruckus in their own close-knit
circles.

It was inevitable for someone like me, who doesn't have any close friends or a
close-knit group, to end up alone.

"It feels kinda lame to head back all by myself......" (Rintaro)

Leaving amidst all this excitement and going back alone feels a bit like being a
loser, or maybe it's just a tad pitiful, to say the least.

So, I'm pretending to be cool by acting like I'm just chilling here.

But it's so boring, so I get up to leave――――and then.

"......Rintaro."

"Hmm?" (Rintaro)

As someone calls my name, I hear footsteps approaching.

In the dim light, amidst the faint darkness, there stands Rei, back in her school
uniform, taking note of her surroundings.

"Ah, Rei, huh. That was a good job." (Rintaro)

"Mm. You too." (Rei)

She seems a bit restless for some reason as she stands next to me.

I couldn't figure out what was causing her to act this way, but now, it's making
me uncomfortable.

It's honestly bad for just the two of us to be seen together.

"...I was thinking of heading back now, what about you? If you still have
something to do, I can go back and prepare for dinner." (Rintaro)

"I don't particularly have anything to do. But......" (Rei)

"But?" (Rintaro)

"I want you to accompany me for a little bit." (Rei)

Saying this, she takes my hand.

"H-hey...... This is bad, isn't it? If we're seen like this......" (Rintaro)

"You promised to listen me to whatever I wanted to, didn't you?" (Rei)

"True, I did promise but..." (Rintaro)

It was a promise that stemmed from the story of me and Mia going on a date, but
I never thought she'd enact it right here, right now.

"I want to go where there's no one." (Rei)

"......" (Rintaro)

My heart skips a beat.

I don't understand her intentions, but Rei's unusual demeanor is unsettling my

heart.

"If it's behind the school building, there won't be anyone, right?" (Rei)

"I-I think so, but..." (Rintaro)

"Shall we go there, then?" (Rei)

Why does this make my heart race?

Even though we are usually alone at home, and should be used to it, I can't stay
calm right now for some reason.

Is it because of the sense of immorality――――being in the midst of others?

Behind the school building, aside from the moonlight, there are no other light
sources, and there are no other people besides us.

This place, where I had witnessed Rei being approached by Kinjou during the
school festival preparations, doesn't hold particularly fond memories.

"......What's gotten into you, all of a sudden?" (Rintaro)

"I just wanted to be and talk with Rintaro...... Is that a bother?" (Rei)

"I wouldn't think it's a bother for you to tell me that. But being brought here
without knowing why is a little scary......" (Rintaro)

I'm not talking about just Rei here.

It's just that I'm a coward when it comes to these things.

"I didn't have anything specific to talk about. I just...... wanted to spend this time
with you." (Rei)

"......How can you say such an embarrassing thing so easily." (Rintaro)

"Are you embarrassed?" (Rei)

"Well, yeah." (Rintaro)

"......How cute." (Rei)

"Don't tease me. I'm going home, okay?" (Rintaro)

Of course, I have no intention of doing it.

I sit on the steps near the back door and look up at Rei.

"Sorry. I'm a little embarrassed too." (Rei)

"It's unusual for you to say that." (Rintaro)

Rei sits next to me, being careful with the hem of her skirt. There's only a fist's
width between us.

"...Kakihara-kun's confession, I'm glad it ended up being a success." (Rei)

"Yeah. The pair who should be together are together. I'm at ease too." (Rintaro)
Although the outcome is fine, I also think it was good to have practiced for
today.

It was worth the trouble when the problem that had been bothering me was
resolved.

"But, school might get a bit chaotic from next week." (Rintaro)

"Why's that?" (Rei)

"You know about Kakihara's popularity with the girls, right? I think some of
them might cry......" (Rintaro)

I refrained from mentioning the obvious, but in reality, from the stage, it was
clear that there were girls who were in despair when Kakihara's confession
succeeded.

All those who had feelings for Kakihara ended up heartbroken. I'm sure
Kakihara himself doesn't understand how much it will shake up the entire
school.

"There were also many guys who liked Nikaido, so ultimately, when someone's
love is fulfilled, it might mean the end of someone else's love." (Rintaro)

"The end of someone's... love." (Rei)

Rei repeats that part and then looks down with a troubled expression.

She might have something on her mind, but as for me, I was a little embarrassed
to have my words be quoted off at random.

"Rintaro... do you have, someone you like?" (Rei)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

At her sudden question, I unintentionally let out a foolish voice.

Someone I like.

I reflexively begin to think, and Rei's eyes, somewhat moist, meet mine.
The person I like――――

(......What the hell am I thinking!)

I should have left these feelings at that summer sea.

As a mere ordinary person, I shouldn't have such feelings, and it's out of the
question to express them recklessly.

Rei――――Millefeuille Stars, they can reach even greater heights.

I mustn't be a hindrance to them.

"Even if I have, I wouldn't say it." (Rintaro)

"Huh, why not?" (Rei)

"Because it's embarrassing, obviously. Can you openly talk about someone you
like?" (Rintaro)

"Well... it is indeed embarrassing." (Rei)

"See? So let's end this conversation." (Rintaro)

"...Okay." (Rei)

She might have some dissatisfaction, but it seems her own embarrassment won
out as she readily backed down.

I breathe a sigh of relief for the time being.

However, I can't say that the situation as it is is good.

I know that Rei is popular with men, and since I actually witnessed her being
approached by Kinjou, there's no doubt that there are people in the entertainment
industry who are aiming to be her boyfriend.

Thinking about Rei smiling at someone else and going home to someone else's
house――――.

(Yeah... I really hate it.)

I feel like this feeling itself is the answer, but let's put that aside for now.

Just imagining Rei walking happily next to someone else makes my chest feel all
tangled up.

Even though we can't have a named relationship, I can't stand the thought of
someone else having that kind of relationship with her.

I'm so ugly for feeling this way, and it's really cowardly, and I truly hate it.

"......Do you remember when I told you I wanted to be by your side forever,
Rintaro?" (Rei)

Whether she knows what was in my heart or not, Rei suddenly brings up those
words.

"Of course, I remember......" (Rintaro)

"Those feelings haven't changed at all, and I don't think they ever will." (Rei)

So――――.

Rei takes a breath and continues.

"I can't express it clearly in words yet... but as long as Rintaro doesn't reject me,
I'll always be by your side." (Rei)

As she says that, just like when we talked on the beach that day, Rei closed the
one-fist gap between us.

Just that alone makes the anxiety that has been swelling up suddenly shrink
away.

"......There's no way I'd reject you." (Rintaro)

I stand up, exposing myself to the moonlight.

A new song for the folk dance is being played in the schoolyard.

It's quite late already, so this is probably the last song.

In short, the closing party is probably coming to an end soon.

"It might be presumptuous, but you're an important place for me. As long as you
say that, I'll come back to you no matter what happens." (Rintaro)

"......Rintaro?" (Rei)

Realizing that something is off with me, Rei's voice is mixed with concern.

She really is sharp when it comes to me.

"It's a great opportunity. Wanna dance a little? ...Just the two of us." (Rintaro)

I invite her myself, but it feels cheesy and embarrassing, and I unconsciously
scratch my cheek.

Rei smiles and stands up, lining up next to me.

"If you're okay with me, I'd be happy to." (Rei)

I reach out my hand, and Rei takes it.

Even though we have only heard the song a few times, we end up dancing
surprisingly well.

It's not like we're particularly skilled, but we surprisingly have fun dancing.

"I'm flattered to be called your important place." (Rei)

"That's an exaggeration." (Rintaro)

"It's not. I'm really happy about it." (Rei)

Rei has a smile on her face that I've never seen before.

Unexpectedly, my heart is easily captured by her smile.

No matter what happens, I'll come back to her.

Yes――――No matter what.
 Epilogue: Reunion

(Well, it should be fine for about two days, I think.)

I sent a message to Rei explaining that I would be away from home for a while.

Under the clear autumn sky, I leave the apartment with a feeling of melancholy.

In front of me, there's a limousine parked.

I sigh deliberately and approach the limousine.

"......I have come to pick you up, Rintaro-sama." (Sofia)

Sofia-san, who appears after opening the door, bows politely to me.

We hadn't met face to face since she had forced the letter on me.

"There's no need to come and pick me up, right? It's not that far, and I could
have taken the train." (Rintaro)

"I cannot let Rintaro-sama to do such a thing." (Sofia)

"I've said it many times, but I'm just an ordinary person. I don't need more care
than necessary." (Rintaro)

"......I will keep that in mind." (Sofia)

It's all just lip service anyway.

They treat me with respect while looking down on me for leaving the household.

I have no intention of following in my father's footsteps, so there's no point in

treating me with respect.

"Please, get in." (Sofia)

As prompted, I get into the limousine.

Why is this car so unnecessarily luxurious? A regular car would have been more
than enough for picking me up.

"Do you fully grasp the contents of the letter?" (Sofia)

"......More or less." (Rintaro)

"In that case, I will spare you the explanation. You can discuss the details
directly with Mr. President." (Sofia)

I almost let out a sigh.

The president is basically my father, and to put it bluntly, he's the last person I
want to meet.

Just thinking about having to meet him was greatly unsettling.

"――――Honestly, I was surprised." (Sofia)

"Huh?" (Rintaro)

"I thought that no matter what I did, you wouldn't come." (Sofia)

"......If I could avoid it, I still wouldn't want to come. But I do feel indebted for
being raised to some extent, and it would be presumptuous of me to think I could
live on my own without meeting...... at least once...... That's all." (Rintaro)

"......I see." (Sofia)

After that, Sofia-san and I don't have any more conversations in the car.

She's just a very rational person, and she must have judged that there was no
need for excessive conversation.

I can empathize with that way of thinking, and it's much better than being forced
into a conversation.

Eventually, the limousine stops, and Sofia-san and I get off, leaving the driver
behind.

"It's ridiculously big...... As ever." (Rintaro)

In front of us is a towering skyscraper.

This is the headquarters of my father's company, the Shidou Group.

"Shall we get in, Rintaro-sama." (Sofia)

"......Yeah." (Rintaro)

Guided by Sofia-san, we enter the building and take the elevator.

The elevator then stops at the top floor.

At the end of a long corridor, there's an automatic door with an electronic lock.

"Please wait a moment." (Sofia)

As I wait as instructed, then Sofia-san enters what seems to be a password on the

control panel in front of the door and unlocks the electronic lock.

"Please." (Sofia)

The door opened, and this time I walk ahead.

――――And, at the far end of the room.

The man sitting in the chair behind the large desk turns his gaze from the
window to me.

"......It's been a while, Rintaro." ()

My father, Shidou Yuutaro, greets me with his usual unsociable expression.

 Credits

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