Thanks to Meerkat for helping with the translation
Chapter 5: “Shiorilympics”
“Hey, I have something I want to talk about. Do you have a little time?”
I laugh at myself for contacting him so pathetically, even though I should have been rejected.
But I really wanted to see Yuki. There was something I needed to confirm.
Yuki is busy. Not just ordinary busy, but extraordinarily so. Rather, he seems to be choosing to be busy.
I thought he might have plans, but unexpectedly, Yuki agreed easily.
[Sure, but I’m about to go see some animals. Want to come along, Shiori?]
“Animals!? I’m in! Definitely going! It’s the zoo, right!? I love that!”
[Zoo? Well, I guess you could call it that…]
“I’ll get ready right away, wait for me!”
I hang up the phone and start changing quickly. I can’t stay like this.
I’m grateful for this unexpected coincidence. I thought he might be with someone else, but it seems he’s alone.
Going to the zoo alone is something I could never do. Yuki’s mental strength is really something else.
A zoo date with Yuki. I can’t stop grinning. It’s strange to have a date after being rejected, but the fact that our relationship hasn’t become awkward is due to Yuki’s incredibly big heart.
Back in middle school, when a girl accidentally farted, Yuki encouraged her by saying, “It smells good, so don’t worry about it.” His way of being considerate was off, but in the end, it turned into a funny story that wrapped up nicely.
“…This is fun.”
Just talking to him, just anticipating what might happen next is exciting. That’s Yuki.
The feelings that had grown inside me were starting to take shape. An ideal I had set. The me I wanted to become.
I want Yuki to hear about it. Before my parents, before anyone else, first and foremost.
It’s not just about following in Yuki’s footsteps. It’s about the path I’m aiming for to walk beside him.
“It’s okay. Yuki won’t deny it!”
That was absolute trust. A bright future. There was no cloudiness in my eyes.
“Number 4, go! Keep running! Don’t lose to number 8! Damn, why are you falling back!”
“Yuki, you bakaaaaaaaaa!”
Under the gloomy cloudy sky, Shiori’s shout doesn’t echo. It’s drowned out by the excitement.
“What’s with that reaction? You look like an old man who just lost a long-shot bet.”
“How is this a zoo!?”
“Huh? You can see horses, can’t you? Besides, the ups and downs of human drama here are just like a zoo!”
“This is a racetrack!”
Shiori and I are at the racetrack. We were sitting in our seats watching the race.
“I told you we were going to see animals.”
“This is different!”
I sigh exasperatedly at Shiori, who somehow can’t seem to accept this.
“And what’s with that outfit? Think about the dress code.”
“I didn’t know!?”
“Listen, at the racetrack, it’s proper etiquette to tuck a red pencil behind your ear and hold a racing form.”
“But nobody else around us is doing that?”
“Is this the times changing? How sad…”
I was the only one with the analog style. I take the red pencil out from behind my ear.
“That aside, that outfit looks cute on you.”
“What kind of mentality do you have to compliment me at a time like this!?”
Shiori, who had expected to go to the zoo, was dressed in casual, easy-to-move-in clothes. It was a reasonable choice, considering the possibility of getting dirty if participating in hands-on animal experiences.
“Hey, Yuki. Is this okay? We’re underage, you know?”
“Don’t worry. As long as we don’t buy any betting tickets, there’s no problem.”
The entrance fee is also cheap at 200 yen. It’s my first time at a racetrack, but the atmosphere is swirling with excitement and desire.
This is a fresh experience in its own way. Though, of course, gambling will remain strictly off-limits in the future.
“Why did you decide to come to the racetrack?”
“I’m not a horse owner, but there’s a horse named after me that’s scheduled to race soon. It’s a cute white horse called ‘Himiyama Yukitoo’. It’s like having naming rights.”
“There are too many things to question about that!”
I explain the details to Shiori. Although we can’t bet, I’m curious about Himiyama Yukitoo’s future too. We might see the name in racing forms or broadcasts in the future.
Everything is an experience. That’s why we came to see what a racetrack is like.
“Next time, let’s ask Toshifune-san to take us to the owners’ box. It’s a VIP area with special treatment. VIP seating. I hear there’s a real dress code there…”
Formal attire is recommended. I’d love to experience that someday.
“But, but, couldn’t you do something about the name ‘Himiyama Yukitoo’? If it was just ‘Yukitoo’, I could cheer wholeheartedly. If anything, I wish it was ‘Kamishiro Yukitoo’.”
“That’s why I want to change the ‘Yukitoo’ part…”
Why is she so insistent on keeping ‘Yukitoo’? Neigh.
After watching the race, we get up from our seats. The venue is lined with food stalls and well-equipped. The gift shop has a surprisingly diverse lineup, from cookies and T-shirts to stuffed animals, different from what I had imagined.
“I thought there would be more men here, but the atmosphere is different.”
“I expected it to be more decadent, with old men’s angry voices echoing everywhere, but it’s surprisingly clean.”
I had imagined scenes of gambling addicts who lost their life’s bet fighting each other, but there’s no such chaotic atmosphere. It even has an excitement similar to a zoo’s souvenir corner, and Shiori seems to be enjoying herself. I think I’ll buy some souvenirs for my family too.
As we’re enjoying ourselves, we see a man being carried away, perhaps due to poor health.
We were sitting in outdoor seats too, and even though it’s cloudy, it’s still humid. If you watch for a long time, not just one race, you could easily become unwell.
“Are you okay? Not getting heat stroke?”
“Yeah! I’m fine!”
She’s smiling brightly, but I’m not naive enough to believe just a smile.
“Just in case. Put this on.”
I take a cooling sheet out of my bag and stick it on Shiori’s forehead. I put one on myself too.
“Hahaha. That’s weird. But we match!”
“Practicality over appearances.”
I don’t want her to do reckless things like walking in heels when it’s snowy and slippery.
Even if we haven’t prepared snow boots, we need to manage risks at a minimum level.
It’s too late after a major accident or injury happens. Prevention is better than cure. Everyone, please be careful, okay?
“Yuki, you’re always so well-prepared.”
“My luck is terribly bad. A first-aid kit is essential.”
If you learn from past experiences, this naturally becomes second nature.
Suddenly, Shiori’s expression takes on a look of determination. As if she’s made some kind of decision.
“Hey, there’s something I want you to hear!”
Shiori psyches herself up. Then, as if diving into my chest, she leans forward with her whole body.
Caught off guard, I catch her. At an incredibly close distance. My field of vision is filled with Shiori’s face.
“Ah, wawawa! Close, your face is so close, Yuki! Um, um, c-c-can I kiss you!?”
“Calm down.”
Shiori is flustered, but at least she’s asking. There are too many people in this world who aren’t so considerate!
Still clinging to me and not trying to move away, Shiori whispers.
“Just a little longer. I need courage.”
At those words, all I could do was nod.
“I’m sorry for keeping you out so late.”
“Where is this…?”
The sun had set, and night was about to fall.
Shiori had said, “There’s a place I want you to come with me,” and led me to the pedestrian bridge where I had once been injured protecting her. It’s a road I’ve passed many times since the accident. But I had never come here with Shiori. I hadn’t intended to avoid it, but it had naturally turned out that way.
Looking down at the road, cars are running. The constant sound of engines is somehow pleasant, and I listen carefully. Watching the flow of cars brings up strange feelings.
A stream of people unrelated to me. But each of them has their own life, and someday our paths might cross. — And in the same way, they might part.
“I had fun today! Thank you for listening to my request even though I contacted you suddenly.”
“Come to think of it, you said you had something you wanted to talk about.”
“Yeah. Or rather — something I want you to hear.”
Shiori also looks down at the scene below. I don’t know what her eyes are focused on.
The city night is bright. It’s still a bustling time. I’m relieved to see glimpses of Shiori’s expression.
Her ponytail looks settled too. I don’t feel the same impatience as before.
The Shiori from a few months ago wouldn’t have been able to make such a face at this place where the accident happened.
“The wind feels nice.”
“I can’t wait for autumn.”
I’ve had my fill of summer. I went to the beach with classmates and on trips with family. I had a summer fling at the pool (laughs) and went insect hunting in the mountains. On rainy days, I played games to death, made clothes, and saw social media blow up. It’s not an exaggeration to say I’ve done it all this summer. Even now, if I go home, my sister, who recently learned about nudist beaches overseas, keeps saying, “It’s a nudist home!” And mom, talking about saving on electricity bills, often wears her swimsuit around the house. Is it eternally summer in their heads? Hurry up, autumn!
These are memories I shouldn’t be recalling, but Shiori was part of them too.
The expression in my memories. Looking back, Shiori was always–
“I see. So… you’ve finally overcome it.”
“Haha. Yuki, you’re really perceptive, aren’t you?”
She laughs awkwardly. That was proof enough.
The Shiori from when we reunited in high school, who would only apologize with a face on the verge of tears, is gone.
“I’ll say it again, no apologies are needed.”
“…I won’t say it. Because that’s not what Yuki wants.”
No matter how many times I said I didn’t mind, it didn’t get through. After all the regret, lament, and remorse.
I have no way of knowing how many tears Shiori shed, how much she grieved.
But the one thing I can say is that I never wanted that. I acted according to my own judgment. The results are entirely my responsibility. It’s what I should bear.
“Girls’ basketball is fun. The seniors are kind, and every day is fulfilling.”
“Looks like selling you to the captain was worth it.”
“It was human trafficking!?”
Shiori looks shocked, but it just shows how much she’s needed.
Many sports clubs besides girls’ basketball wanted her. She’s in high demand.
Shiori may have bent my arm the wrong way, but I bent her entire life. It goes without saying which is the greater sin. Finally, it seems Shiori has realized.
— Shiori’s place isn’t by my side.
“Yuki, you’re too overprotective.”
Shiori turns around, searching for words, feeling her way through.
She strokes her wristwatch with her fingertips. The handmade watch I made and gave her.
“This must be an inferiority complex. I’m just walking the path you prepared for me, Yuki. Even with girls’ basketball, you arranged for them to accept me. I couldn’t have earned money without you. I’ve been spoiled, drowning in kindness– and got dumped.”
“That’s not true.”
I’m not being overprotective. I was just trying to give back what I took from Shiori.
The time wasted, the fun youth she should have had. Shiori should have a path to happiness–
“Don’t treat me like a child, Yuki.”
Shiori swiftly moves behind me and rests her head on my back. A strong rejection.
It was the first time I felt a clear expression of denial from Shiori.
“…Your back is big. Cool and strong, it protected me. I know because I’ve been chasing after it. I wanted to catch up, to someday stand beside you. But Yuki, you keep moving forward. I can’t catch up.”
Shiori’s delicate fingers grasp my T-shirt tightly. Her voice was trembling.
Even so, I could tell without looking. Shiori isn’t crying now.
“But you know, that was natural. There was a good reason why I couldn’t catch up, and Yuki had been teaching me that all along, but I took quite a detour. I’m such an idiot, aren’t I?”
“There’s no need to catch up. I’ll say it again, you should enjoy your own life.”
It’s not like we want to have this conversation again at this point.
“Yes, there was no need to catch up. From Yuki’s perspective, I’m just a child who can’t do anything. I couldn’t even make decisions for myself. But you know what? I found it!”
Suddenly, Shiori pulls away. She takes a few steps back and raises her head with vigor.
“You found it?”
I ask, not understanding. It’s strange not to understand the usually straightforward Shiori.
Her large, moist eyes were appealing to me, lit with a powerful light.
“What I want to do, what I should aim for. The path I should take–my path.”
Shiori is trying to talk about the future. A future ahead without me, unrelated to me.
“What I should have said wasn’t ‘I’m sorry.’ It was ‘Thank you,’ right?”
Gratitude instead of apology. That was undoubtedly Shiori’s growth. From child to adult.
Shiori, who had been fixated on me in her narrow world, is now spreading her wings, ready to fly.
Shiori reaches out to the moon. It’s impossible to reach. What she’s seeking is freedom.
This is our [farewell ritual].
There are many people living in this world. There’s no need to be fixated on me. Somewhere out there is someone who will cherish Shiori, love her, and make her happy.
It’s a big role that’s completely impossible for me now. It’s too heavy a burden. I don’t have that resolve. So–
“Listen, Yuki.”
She was like a different person. An adult-like Shiori Kamishiro I didn’t know.
Shiori’s physical abilities had always been the strongest. Now, her mental strength was catching up.
The strength of her heart, her core, was giving birth to a charm different from the Shiori I knew before. No– a woman.
“You know, I want to become a nurse in the future!”
“…A nurse?”
I cloud my expression at the unexpected word.
“Shiori, that’s…”
“No! It’s not like that! This is my dream. I don’t want you to misunderstand!”
Shiori hastily continues, trying to dispel my doubts.
“The other day, a Senpai got injured during club activities. The first aid I learned from you when I was a manager came in handy. The Senpai thanked me, and I was so happy. I realized that even someone like me could be useful to others. When you got injured, I couldn’t do anything, I just panicked.”
She speaks her thoughts fluently, as if giving a presentation.
I wonder how many times she practiced for this moment.
“That’s when I thought, I want to become someone who can support others.”
Shiori looks refreshingly cheerful, as if she’s had a weight lifted off her shoulders.
“This is the important promise I found for myself. Of course, you had an influence, Yuki. But I’m not dwelling on that! I truly want a job where I can be closest to people in need, supporting and encouraging them. …I decided this on my own. Not for anyone else, but for myself!”
She places her hand on her chest, quietly weaving her words. There was Shiori’s unwavering determination.
I was shocked. When had I become so arrogant?
From the start, I had no right to interfere with Shiori’s decision. Perhaps I had been looking down on Shiori without realizing it. I underestimated her. –Even though she’s such a strong woman.
“If you’re a nurse, the patients will be overjoyed.”
“You think so?”
She smiles shyly. Shiori’s cheerful presence is sure to give patients energy.
Just having her around makes you feel brighter. Just as it did for me.
That’s Shiori’s innate talent, unique to her.
“Hah…”
I sigh softly. I’m a big fool. I didn’t understand anything about Shiori.
No, not just about Shiori, but about mom, my sister, and Hinagi too. Maybe I never truly understood anyone. I was just conceited, thinking I understood.
I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. Maybe I had been taking things too seriously all this time. As Sekka said, in the end, I didn’t trust anyone.
Because I couldn’t trust myself. But even without me doing anything, people move forward. They walk strongly towards the future on their own feet. There’s no need for me to interfere. Such an arrogant act would be nothing but a violation of dignity. Shiori’s decision is sacred and inviolable.
“I have to study hard!”
Shiori psyches herself up. Her enthusiasm is more than enough.
“You’ve found something you can be serious about, huh.”
“Yeah! It’s all thanks to you, Yuki-oka!”
“That’s definitely not going to catch on. Who’s spreading that?”
Shiori is trying to become someone. …Maybe I’m not needed anymore.
Nursing is a specialized profession. Aiming to become a nurse means she needs to go to a university with a nursing department, a junior college, or a vocational school. The path is clear. Once decided, there’s no room for hesitation.
It was blinding. Shiori was gazing far beyond me, who couldn’t see the future.
I’m reminded of Aesop’s fable, “The Tortoise and the Hare.”
Shiori said she couldn’t catch up to me. But that’s not true. Shiori has long since surpassed me and is moving forward. It’s me who can’t catch up, staring at her back.
I hope that happiness awaits Shiori ahead–
“That’s it! Hehehe. I’ve thought of something good!”
“What is it, Yuki? Um, you’re acting a bit creepy…”
There was one last thing I could do. I know. No help needed.
This is a parting gift. If Shiori wants to become a nurse, I should be allowed to give her a little push towards that ideal. That’s the last bit of support I can offer Shiori.
“I’ll tell you when it’s officially decided.”
“O-Okay.”
She looks somewhat uneasy, but it will likely be an invaluable experience for Shiori.
Hinagi aims to become a writer, and Shiori aspires to be a nurse, huh. Come to think of it, Mom is also preparing for independence. I don’t know about my sister, but with her beauty and talent, she can do anything. Beauty is justice.
Each of us is setting out on our own path, seeking glory.
I felt proud. At the same time, I’m envious. Because I have nothing.
Someday, everyone will leave me behind as I remain stagnant in the same place. I don’t find that lonely. Rather, that’s what I hope for. Happiness can only be found where one reaches out.
I can’t grasp it since I’ve stopped reaching out.
“Shiori.”
The moon peeks through gaps in the clouds. But Shiori can see a bright future.
We will always be polar opposites, never intersecting.
“Congratulations.”
“Yeah!”
Shiori smiles with a radiant expression.
I wished that I could at least cheer her on.
“…This is okay, right, Yuki?”
There’s no answer. But I feel like he’s pushing me forward.
“I wonder if I managed to smile properly…”
I mutter while looking in the mirror after my bath. It was the most nervous moment in my life.
For the first time, I revealed my “promise” for the future. I declared that I would become a nurse.
After saying it out loud, I realize anew. The weight of responsibility that my words carry.
I never knew that trying to accomplish something could be this difficult.
I wonder if Yuki always fought with this kind of pressure whenever he said he would help someone. If it’s just about myself, I can manage somehow. But when others are involved, the responsibility is incomparable. The expectations and disappointments are too big to handle.
I can’t even imagine how much determination one needs to make such a “promise.”
The watch Yuki gave me, the perfume from Yuki, and many other things I received.
Looking back, my world is overflowing with things I got from Yuki. Both material things and feelings.
I’ve received so much happiness. I’ve been so spoiled.
Come to think of it, I’ve been chasing Yuki’s back all this time. Even my choice of high school was because of that.
Regretting the past, wanting to make amends for my mistakes, I’ve been depending on Yuki all along.
Getting rejected, I feel like I can finally be objective.
In romance manga and novels, codependent relationships are popular.
But surely, that’s not what Yuki wants. Because Yuki has always acted to make those close to him happy, he would never make such a choice. I’m certain of that.
My confession, which wouldn’t make me happy, could never reach Yuki.
Now it’s my turn to return happiness to Yuki. If that’s the case, I can’t depend on Yuki.
I need to walk my own path, pursue my own happiness, and become independent for Yuki to feel at ease.
I can’t make Yuki happy if I remain weak and dependent on him.
“I’ll become strong too!”
I take a deep breath and psych myself up.
This is a “ritual of beginning.”
To build an equal relationship. I want to become such a wonderful adult and go to meet him.
The me who depended on Yuki ended with rejection. Yuki ended it for me. That’s fine.
Otherwise, I can’t get what I want. It makes me laugh how I couldn’t see what was right in front of me.
That’s right. I couldn’t see anything. Even though I was overflowing with so much happiness.
I tie my hair, which I was drying with a hairdryer, into a ponytail. The mirror reflects the usual me.
But it’s different.
“Nice to meet you, new me.”
I slap both my cheeks and put on a smile.
It was a smile of mine that I had never seen before.
“Are you mistaking the hospital for a friend’s house?”
“Ah, Dr. Reizei, it’s been a while!”
“What an inappropriate greeting in this situation…”
Sighing and pressing her forehead while crossing her long, slender legs is Dr. Natsuko Reizei.
We go way back; she’s been in charge of me since childhood, whenever I was brought to the hospital with injuries. Since my third hospitalization, she’s been lecturing me every time we meet, but her appearance hasn’t changed at all since then. If anything, her beauty has become even more refined.
“Could this be a beauty clinic?”
“Do you want to add so many wrinkles to my skin? I’m not Kurogane-san who rejoices at reunions in the hospital. Are you an elderly person who comes to the hospital just to chat?”
“I’m only sixteen.”
“Bragging about your youth to me? Do you want to contribute to blood donations by having your blood drawn?”
“If someone received my blood in a transfusion, their luck would hit rock bottom. Hahahahaha!”
“Please let that unparalleled sense of humor end with your generation.”
Dr. Reizei is always so intelligent and funny. This is what a respectable adult looks like.
By the way, Kurogane-san works as a nurse in this hospital. We also go way back; when I was first hospitalized, she was still a rookie nurse. I remember her trying her best to fulfill her duties while receiving various instructions. It seems that Kurogane-san has now steadily built her career and stepped up. It feels nostalgic, like watching over her growth.
Speaking of blood donations, I remember that vampires maintain their youth by sucking blood.
“Could it be that the reason you’re always beautiful is…”
Dr. Reizei’s darkness runs deep.
“You know, thinking you’ll be forgiven for casually complimenting a woman is a bad habit of yours.”
“Then, should I compliment you carefully?”
“That’s exactly it. If so, please carefully compliment what parts of me are beautiful.”
I stare intently at Dr. Reizei. Since I was scolded for being casual, I concentrate all my nerves on praise as if looking through her with a CT scan. Dr. Reizei is a beauty. A true Japanese beauty, as her name suggests. Conversely, she must be used to being complimented on obvious features at first glance.
In other words, what’s required of me is the rarity of praise. Rare praise!
“Your flawless, pearl-like kneecaps shine pure white, reminiscent of the highest grade snow-white pearls. Their bewitching, devilish charm makes me want to drool and rub my cheeks against them–“
“That’s kind of creepy.”
“What do you want me to do?”
Dr. Reizei is completely put off. My unprecedented, innovative praise has failed.
Covering her kneecaps with her hands, she’s saying something like, “I’m going to put on stockings.” I want to protest.
It seems the world doesn’t work out whether you compliment casually or carefully.
Speaking of praiseworthy elements, I noticed the doctor isn’t wearing that thing. Even though it’s a fashionable item.
“What happened to that nouveau riche hobby of yours?”
“Ah, you mean the gold stethoscope? I bought it on impulse out of curiosity, but it’s in bad taste. It’s quite old now, so it’s staying at home.”
I strongly remember it glittering around her neck when we first met.
“You still have it! I heard the price of gold has doubled in the past ten years.”
The price of gold has been increasing year by year. It’s about double in ten years, but compared to twenty years ago, it’s increased about seven times. Depending on the condition, you might even be able to sell an old gold necklace for more than you bought it, that’s how much inflation there is.
“Do you think I could sell it? It’s full of my earwax though.”
“Isn’t that the ultimate added value?”
“You’re being creepy again.”
The doctor started cleaning her ears. She did mine too. Thank you very much.
“Well, it’s not an injury today, is it?”
“I was planning to break a bone, but lately my luck has improved, and I was saved.”
When Tsubaki-san pushed me, I honestly thought, “Here we go again.”
“Do you feel unsatisfied if you don’t break bones regularly?”
“It’s like a subscription service.”
“Please stop using your bones as payment.”
Bone-pay. My whole body might end up with complex fractures.
Dr. Reizei crosses her legs and takes a sip of coffee. I’m envious…
“I wondered why you came, but it’s for a full medical checkup? High school students usually have health checkups at school, but it’s fine if you want a more detailed examination. After all, you’re known for major injuries. It wouldn’t be strange if you were also known for illnesses. Ah, this coffee is delicious.”
“What a cruel act, drinking coffee in front of me when I’ve had nothing but water since morning…”
“I’m going to eat a sweet bun too.”
“You beautiful demon!”
This is the height of cruelty.
“It’s delightful.”
I clench my fists, trembling. I’m so hungry… I want to eat something sweet…
Actually, my old man is also scheduled for a full medical checkup. Apparently, he’s been complaining about liver problems for a while, but he was too stressed to deal with it. We decided to get a thorough health check together. Like my old man, I’m staying for two days and one night.
There are other reasons too, but that aside, unlike young and healthy me, my old man seems to be in pretty bad shape. His complexion is always poor. It wouldn’t be surprising if he had multiple health issues that haven’t surfaced yet. He’s finally resolved things with Tsubaki-san and Gikyo-chan, and even reconnected with his parents, whom he thought he’d cut ties with. If anything happens, his family will be sad.
“This might be the last time we meet at this hospital, you know.”
Dr. Reizei suddenly gives a farewell greeting with a melancholy look. Huh, why?
“But you’re my primary care physician.”
“Eh? I don’t like that, you know?”
Dr. Reizei blinks her eyes.
“That’s harsh.”
“Listen, normal people don’t come to the hospital with major injuries three times a year, you know?”
“That’s my personal best. V!”
It was a long time ago, but back then, I was scolded harshly by many nurses too.
“Please refrain from breaking that record.”
It was the folly of youth. Now I should be able to handle things a bit better.
“But why? Are you changing jobs or something?”
Although there doesn’t seem to be any particular need, the doctor tells me in a hushed voice.
“Actually, I’m thinking about opening my own practice. It might still be a few years away, but hehe, then I’ll be the director of a clinic. I’ll have power and boss my subordinates around.”
Dr. Reizei puffs up with pride. I won’t say anything, but it’s quite impressive…
“Opening your own practice?”
I’m surprised by this unexpected answer. Everyone around me seems to be in an unprecedented rush for independence.
“The main issue is finding a suitable location. In a way, success is determined by location.”
Wait a minute? The puzzle pieces are rapidly coming together. Think about it.
What if the first floor of an apartment building was a clinic?
That would provide an unparalleled sense of security. Unlike convenience stores, which might have noisy foot traffic late at night, a clinic wouldn’t have that problem.
Of course, being the Heroines’ Apartment, Dr. Reizei would get the heroine discount.
Mom’s office on the second floor and the clinic on the first floor. I need to consult with Toshifune-san immediately.
“…I might be able to arrange some land for you.”
“Were you a landowner? Let’s get married right away.”
“That’s not quite it…”
“Then let’s divorce.”
“That’s so unreasonable, it’s actually refreshing!”
We need to work out the details, or it’s just a pipe dream. It’s not good to raise expectations unnecessarily, but I can’t just move forward on my own. Dr. Reizei must have her own hopes. I explain the plan to her.
“Yukito-kun, I’ll give you these stockings.”
She hands me her freshly removed stockings. Um, Dr. Reizei?
“Was it my earwax that you liked?”
“What’s suddenly gotten into you, doctor!?”
Dr. Reizei, who’s usually calm and collected, is saying outrageous things.
“Don’t hold back. Here’s my kneecap that you like so much. Feel free to touch it.”
As I’m bewildered by her sudden loss of composure, I notice that her eyes have turned into [¥] symbols.
“She’s blinded by money!?”
I thought that was just a comic expression! I never imagined someone’s eyes would actually turn into ¥ symbols.
“Well, we still need to discuss it properly…”
“From now on, I’ll take care of you.”
This is bad, she’s not listening. The doctor is also flustered now that her future goals have suddenly become concrete.
But the doctor has really taken care of me since I was little. Like Kurogane-san, I have an especially great respect for medical professionals. I’ve always wanted to repay them somehow.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that has come around. If so, seizing it depends solely on my decision.
The doctors have saved me countless times. Every time I got injured, they continued to provide the best treatment.
It’s not just about treatment. They’ve seriously confronted me, telling me to take better care of myself, every time I got injured repeatedly. They scolded me. They got angry with me. But it was all warm and caring.
That’s why I wanted to respect the path Shiori chose and lend her my support.
“I’m sure Kurogane-san will take diligent care of you again, but I’m relieved that nothing seems to be wrong this time. — Yukito-kun, you’ve grown up.”
Dr. Reizei gently pats my head, just like she used to do when I was small, as if to reassure me.
During my hospital stays, I never felt lonely. There was always someone there for me. Supporting me.
No news is good news, as they say, and not coming to the hospital is a sign of good health.
But it’s because of the kindness here, the existence of a place where one can be saved, that people can live with peace of mind. “Medicine is the art of humanity” is well said indeed.
I can’t help but bow my head to the compassion I’ve received far more than others. Along with a sense of gratitude.
“Doctor, thank you for everything up until now.”
“You’re welcome.”
READ THE ORIGINAL TRANSLATION AT GADGETIZEDPANDA.COM
“…Yukito, I’ve caused you a lot of trouble. About my parents, my wife, my daughter.”
“You dumped everything on me, didn’t you?”
The voice coming from the other side of the curtain had a hint of refreshing clarity mixed in.
A two-person hospital room. A two-day, one-night stay for a full medical checkup. I retort without hiding my exasperation to my old man who broke the silence.
“But there’s one thing I don’t understand. Was it human compensation? It sounds like nothing more than a prank, but why did you deliberately choose such a troublesome method? Is there a reason for that?”
I thought it was important to separate my sister from Tsubaki-san, but that wasn’t the only reason.
Unsure how to explain, but seeing no reason to hide it either, I answer honestly.
“I’ve heard that children learn by watching their parents’ backs.”
“That’s… true. It’s a widely accepted theory.”
my old man lowers his voice, sounding puzzled.
“I grew up watching Mom’s back. Always, just Mom’s back. Because I had never seen my father’s back, I wanted to know what it meant to have a father.”
I don’t know my father. That’s why I wanted to live with him, even if just for a little while. With a father.
Even if it was just for a few days. I went through all that trouble just to fulfill this selfish desire of mine.
“…I’m sorry.”
my old man was crying. His strained voice is trembling. The apology he uttered. Perhaps it includes everything up to now, including this time. But dissatisfaction remains.
“I heard that fathers are good at playing catch, but I’m disappointed.”
“There’s no way I could catch such a fast ball. Stop throwing curveballs too. Are you trying to harass me?”
“Good grief. You really are a scumbag, old man.”
“You’ve definitely inherited Ouka’s blood strongly.”
“I’m glad I didn’t turn out like my old man.”
“Is this what they call a son’s rebellious phase…”
As we engage in this silly argument, the door opens, and Kurogane-san and Shiori appear.
“Yuki, are you okay?”
“I’m not hospitalized for an injury, you know.”
“Ahaha. That’s right.”
“Yukito-kun, why haven’t you been coming to the hospital lately? Don’t tell me you’ve grown tired of me?”
“This isn’t some kind of maid café, you know.”
Kurogane-san hugs me as soon as we meet, but does she still think I’m in elementary school? When we first met, she was a rookie, but now she has the air of a seasoned veteran.
“Monster-patients are overwhelming, and without your soothing presence, I’d wither away.”
Whenever I had a serious injury, Makirai Kurogane was always there to help with my rehabilitation.
I’ve watched Kurogane grow up close. She’s driven off stalker ex-patients and faced numerous challenges—being a nurse is a tough job. I have nothing but respect for her.
“I’ll take perfect care of you, Kamishiro-san, so don’t worry♪”
“If it’s Kurogane-san, I’m at ease. —That outfit looks good on you, Shiori.”
Shiori was dressed as a nurse. I had asked if she could participate in a job experience program, and permission was granted easily. Supporting Shiori in pursuing her dreams should be permissible.
“R-Really? Isn’t it just the clothes making the person?”
“Not at all. The nurses that show up at our house are just sexy fakes.”
Sometimes, an excessive caregiving competition breaks out.
“Yuuri-san dresses like that!?”
“No, it’s my mother.”
“What is Ouka doing!?”
My father is slumped over on the bed.
“Leave helping Yuki to me!”
With a sunny smile that could lift anyone’s spirits, I thought Shiori might have found her true calling.
“There’s another patient here though…”
The sulking old man was the loser.
While teasing my father, the door opened again. It was Tsubaki-san and Gikyo-chan.
“Ha! How about this, Yukito? I have a loving wife and daughter—a family. Jealous, aren’t you? Huh?”
Acting immature for his age, my father was getting worked up.
“Yukito-chan, if you ever need anything, just tell me, okay?”
“I thought my dear step brother might be bored, so I came with mother.”
“What are those outfits!? Shiori, look! Those are the fakes!”
Tsubaki-san and Gikyo-chan were dressed in overly sexy nurse outfits.
With scrubs becoming mainstream, it was obvious they were fakes.
“I’ve lost…”
My father was completely dejected.
While Shiori diligently cared for me, I played with Tsubaki-san and Gikyo-chan in the hospital room.
As a result, I was fine, but an early liver issue was detected in my father.
Caught just in time before it was too late, we were reminded of the importance of regular health check-ups.
“Hey, it’s a nice day today.”
There was no trace of her usual shameless behavior in her healthy smile.
Though it was early morning, it was already hot. Considering it would get even hotter, the time suitable for exercise in this summer season was limited.
For me, it was either early morning or night. Sometimes, it was in the evening, but given the sudden downpours that could occur, I didn’t recommend it much.
Keeping a steady pace, I thought about how the Imperial Palace was famous as a runner’s haven, and while I’d like to run there someday, I spoke to the person running beside me.
“Is this why you asked about the time?”
“No, I usually run as well, so I thought I’d match our schedules. It’s my daily routine, but I’m always alone. Having someone to talk to is fun.”
“I can only feel anxious.”
“Why? Today’s weather is perfect.”
My nemesis, Senpai Keido, had contacted me last night. Apparently, she’d seen me running a few times and invited me to run together.
There was no reason to refuse. Though her actions often bordered on breaking the rules, she was still our school’s student council president. This school is doomed.
Yet, surprisingly, I seemed to be the only one who thought so. Everyone else held Senpai Keido in high regard. Justified, perhaps, but in my mind, she was a dangerous person—someone who could cause trouble even without being touched.
After running about five kilometers, we slowed to a walk to catch our breath. Hydrating with a sports drink, we continued walking for a while until we finally took a break.
“How far do you usually run, President?”
“About the same. It’s hot this season, so I cut it short to avoid overexertion.”
“Did I push you too hard?”
If so, I’d feel bad. Heatstroke is dangerous.
“Not at all. It was just right. By the way, why don’t you come to my house and freshen up? Don’t worry, I’ve prepared a change of clothes.”
“I’m more worried for other reasons, so I’ll pass.”
“No! No! No! If you don’t come, I’ll be upset!”
“If you throw a tantrum, I’m not running with you again.”
“Really!?”
For some reason, she seemed shocked. It was worth saying.
“So, President, why did you invite me out of the blue?”
“No ulterior motives. I just wanted to show off my abs to you.”
“What the heck?”
As she spoke, she showed me her abs. They were perfectly toned.
An abs enthusiast, her sleek muscles glistened with sweat.
“Aren’t they beautiful? Go ahead, feel them. Many girls don’t appreciate this, which is sad.”
“Wait, did you really call me for that? Touch, touch, touch.”
“You’re touching without hesitation. That’s a good impression. But seriously, Yukito Kokonoe, do you want to join the student council?”
“The student council? I’m still a first-year. And did I just hear something concerning? ‘For now’?”
While I was absorbed in touching, I was being recruited into the student council.
“Yuuri will likely become the president next year. A rival could appear, but… Anyway, she’ll probably drag you into the student council.”
“That’s possible.” Touch, touch.
Though she’s known for her overbearing nature, my sister was also the student council president in middle school and has established an unshakable position in high school. It’s quite possible.
I hope for a strong rival, but is there anyone in the second year who could compete?
The only person I could think of was Goddess-senpai, but considering she’s recently become popular despite being a loner, she’d be a formidable opponent if she ran.
“It might be good to gain experience now. I won’t ask for an immediate answer. Just think about it. Hiromi would be happy if you joined. Your role would be my secretary.”
“That role doesn’t exist.” Touch, touch.
Ugh… This is a problem. Even if I manage to avoid the president, I can’t refuse if my sister orders me next year. I’m clearly not cut out for this. Touch, touch.
“Heh, seems like you like my abs. Alright, let’s go to my place. You can touch them all you want, but I’m sweaty. Even though I’m a girl, let’s take a shower first.”
“Darn, the feel was so good I lost myself!”
As she pulled me along, I resisted. Given her training, she was strong. Our strength was evenly matched. A showdown in broad daylight.
Suddenly, her voice dropped, casting a shadow.
“Why don’t you ask anything from me? Is there nothing I can give you?”
“Are you still worried about that? I told you it’s fine.”
“Sorry isn’t enough! You, of all people, should understand that.”
A desperate cry. But her words were true. Saying sorry doesn’t always resolve things. Life is full of irreparable mistakes, making people cautious.
Apologizing for killing someone won’t bring them back. If the bully apologizes, will the bullying be forgiven? No. The facts don’t disappear.
A wound on the heart never fully heals. Whether the apology is sincere or not, empty words won’t resonate. Therefore, severe crimes are translated into prison sentences or compensation.
Her self-punishing attitude towards me was like that of an obsessive-compulsive disorder.
“Tell me one thing. Will you help Hiromi again?”
“Well, Mikumo-senpai isn’t a stranger anymore. I can’t just ignore her. But if it were someone else, I might leave them to their fate.”
“……I don’t have the right to blame you for that.”
“The president has nothing to do with this.”
“What should I do? How can I–“
The president seems to be misunderstanding something. And it feels like he’s underestimating Mikumo-senpai somehow.
“I once almost got kidnapped. I don’t even know why. It was so sudden. At that moment, I realized something. This world is just irrational and full of enemies, always unfair. That’s why I knew that the only one who could do anything about it was me. Waiting for someone’s help, relying on others, you can’t survive like that.”
“Kidnapped? When was this?”
“A long time ago. So long ago that it doesn’t matter anymore. Maybe it’s better that way.”
I chuckle bitterly. Looking back, I still don’t know what the right answer was.
Accidents and illnesses are the same. Circumstances and environments, too. You’re always confronted with the unreasonable question of why it has to be you.
Maybe someone might help. But before clinging to that illusion, you have to act yourself. Only you can muster that courage.
“Mikumo-senpai usually seeks help from the president, right? Then just take one more step on your own and ask for help from those around you. You shouldn’t expect some abstract someone to come and save you without doing anything yourself. That’s what I think.”
The atmosphere became somber. To change it, I spoke up brightly.
“Well then, I’m heading home. President, be careful of the sun! And let me touch your abs again, maybe for like two hours next time. See you!”
“Oh, sure. Touch them anytime you like.”
As I walked away, memories flashed back. My body trembled with fear, thinking he might disappear from in front of me like that time.
“No way… then that boy back then was… I… I… again…”
It felt like the ground was crumbling away beneath me, and my vision darkened.
Somewhere in Tokyo.
Cardboard boxes piled up in the dance studio. Quite a sight.
The wide studio had mirrors on the walls to check movements closely.
The studio was fully equipped with a shower room, providing every comfort.
Today, we were practicing for the runway show that Tristy-san had consulted me about. The boxes contained costumes used in the past, borrowed for this purpose. The costumes Tristy-san and her team were making were still in production but should be ready by the time of the show. After all, we still had plenty of time until November.
Surprisingly, despite Tristy-san’s stunning visual appeal, she’s not comfortable standing out and has rarely been in the spotlight. She mentioned being scouted multiple times while walking around town but always declined and left quickly with a wry smile.
The reason she accepted the offer to model on the fashion show runway, aside from it being a student-organized event and an invitation from a friend, was due to a change in her own mindset. She decided that trying new challenges might help her future. I think Tristy-san would definitely become popular as a model.
However, she now seems to enjoy backstage work like costume making more and is discovering her own aptitude. It’s a bit of a waste given her glamorous presence, but one’s interests and aptitudes don’t always align.
It’s like a hammer thrower pitching a 130 km/h opening pitch.
“Your eyelashes are so long, and your skin is beautiful.”
“Oh, stop it, I’m embarrassed. But thank you, it makes me happy.”
I was applying makeup to Goddess-sensei. The others were already done and headed to the changing room. The lively voices from there sounded joyful.
“You’re quite skillful. This is the first time I’ve had someone do this for me.”
“Really? With such a good base, I don’t have much to do.”
Most of the makeup was already done, so there wasn’t much for me to add.
“Ah, I can see why you have so many female friends. You’re popular, right? Not just because of your skills, but the respect you show people.”
“Everyone is beautiful.”
“That’s not what I meant. Being oblivious is your only flaw.”
I don’t know what makes me popular; I don’t think I could ever be a social butterfly.
“By the way, why was I invited? It feels embarrassing to be among students.”
Goddess-sensei poked my shoulder after I finished her makeup.
“Sorry for inviting you so suddenly.”
“I had time, so it’s fine. You’re the only one who makes such interesting invitations.”
What’s important in a fashion show is how you present yourself. No matter what clothes you wear, if the person is lackluster, it won’t look appealing. Goddess-sensei, with her profession of being seen and her elegant demeanor, is the ideal stylish woman, so I asked her.
“A fashion show is a big stage. Tristy-san is new to this, and so am I. We need your experience with big stages, Goddess-sensei.”
“Courtrooms aren’t big stages!”
“They’re similar, aren’t they?”
“Not at all!”
With Goddess-sensei’s experience, a student-organized fashion show would be a piece of cake. Plus, she has an excellent fashion sense and stunning beauty, making her an ideal choice.
“……Uh, the box I brought–found it.”
Yuuri-san emerged from the changing room, holding a costume from the box.
“I brought some costumes too. Look forward to it.”
“Thanks, Yuuri-san.”
“Of course, you’re my little brother. It’s natural for me to help.”
Yuuri-san radiates a high-level energy of kindness.
I asked her to play a model role for our fashion show practice, and she agreed without hesitation. She’s simply an angel. Although she stays away from social media and such, she went viral in a commercial, which is something I’m proud of as her brother!
Besides Yuuri-san, we also have Tristy-san, Mio-san, Goddess-sensei, and Goddess-senpai. Including myself, there are six of us here.
“Alright, I’ll get changed.”
Yuuri-san headed back to the changing room. We had already discussed the details in advance.
The stage area is marked with tape on the floor, and the spots where the models need to turn are also designated. The outfits for the fashion show are more focused on design rather than functionality, so some of them have limited mobility. My role is essentially that of a general assistant and spectator, but I also check the models’ walking posture and guide them on how to stand to make the outfits look their best. While I’m not an expert on clothing, I can certainly help with maintaining the correct posture, thanks to my experience as a personal trainer, Yukito.
“Well, I’m looking forward to it. It’s exciting.”
With that, Goddess-sensei went to the changing room. Tristy-san and the others were also changing.
Besides the costumes, they also brought their casual clothes. Since we’re practicing for the runway, a little playfulness is fine. It will also broaden my limited fashion sense.
[Yukito-kun, we’re ready!]
“Got it!”
I heard Tristy-san’s voice from the changing room. I played some upbeat music and dimmed the lights outside the stage area. We laid sheets on the runway
This is to protect the wooden floor from being damaged by the heels.
With the music, Tristy-san walked out slowly. Her sporty look with half pants, a hoodie, and a cap perfectly matched her tall figure.
“Adorable! You look amazing!”
“Really? Yay!”
She spun around. Her athleticism made her movements elegant and beautiful.
Thus began our (mock) fashion show.
“How do I look, Yukito-kun?”
“Fantastic!”
I cheered for Mio-san in her girly (though I barely understood it) outfit.
“It’s my first time wearing clothes like this, so I’m nervous.”
“You’re doing great!”
I cheered for Goddess-senpai in her feminine (still not fully understood) outfit.
“How do I look? Does it suit me?”
“It looks amazing!”
I cheer on the conservative (I’m not entirely sure) goddess sensei.
“Sad.”
“Saying that with a straight face doesn’t help.”
I express my doubts to Yuuri san, who is dressed in an egirl (I sort of understand) style.
She’s wearing a pink frilly blouse, a black mini skirt, black knee-high socks, and her long black hair is in twin tails. It’s unmistakably an egirl fashion.
By the way, Yuuri asked me to do egirl makeup for her.
We try on outfits for a second and third round. I’ve become a praise machine, clapping like a toy monkey with cymbals. Of course, I don’t forget to take photos with my DSLR camera.
The photos we take here are posted on social media, and Tristy’s circle members can view them. Judging by the reactions, they’re a big hit.
“Yukito-kun, Yukito-kun! Look at this! Welcome, Master!”
Among the outfits, there seem to be some unrelated ones, as Tristy shows up in a maid outfit. The monocle suits her too well. There’s no way that’s her own property.
“Wow, it’s super amazing!”
“Hehe, yay!”
Tristy happily twirls, her long skirt fluttering.
“A maid outfit… that’s nice. How about a reverse maid outfit? That would be new, right? Make one later.”
Yuuri makes an unreasonable demand, but what does she mean by reverse!? What should be reversed!?
But I hadn’t noticed yet that the situation was gradually getting out of hand.
“Mio-san, you might be a bit hunched over. Stretching your shoulder blades or wearing a posture-correcting belt on the day might make you look even more beautiful standing.”
I carefully adjust Mio’s posture, ensuring it doesn’t come off as inappropriate. Walking with a beautiful posture surprisingly takes a lot of energy.
“I’m just here to accompany Tristy today. I’m not participating.”
“What!? Mio-chan, join us too!”
“No way. It’s not my style.”
“You’re so cute, it’s a waste!”
Oh right. On second thought, the only one participating here is Tristy.
They’re all so beautiful, if everyone walked the runway, they’d be incredibly popular. My social media is already blowing up with notifications. Even the American dad is watching, saying “COOL!” in excitement.
“Hey, hey, how about this?”
“Amazing… huh? It’s so tacky, it’s laughable. It looks like it has half the benefits.”
“That’s mean!”
I almost mindlessly praised it but stopped myself. What the goddess senpai is wearing is an indescribable, out-of-the-ordinary outfit often seen at fashion shows—conceptual, avant-garde but unwearable.
“By the way, why are your comments so rough, like a hero interview?”
“I can only understand ‘amazing’…”
Yuuri’s point is valid. I can’t help it. My vocabulary is too limited to express more! I severely lack an aesthetic sense for fashion.
“Hmm. If this is how you’re handling things, are you sure you’ll be okay when the real event comes? Fine, I’ll teach you what it means to be a true egirl. Brace yourself.”
“No, thank you.”
“No cost.”
“goddess sensei, can I sue this person?”
“Listen, you should use protection.”
“Huh? I mean denial.”
Yuuri’s joke in her egirl outfit was surprisingly powerful.
“Hey everyone, can you come here? I have special outfits prepared.”
Yuuri calls everyone to the changing room.
“You stay here.”
“Okay.”
Left with no choice, I start working on the reverse maid outfit design.
But what is reverse? I face this philosophical challenge, pondering over it, and time passes. After about ten minutes, no one comes out. The screams from the changing room must be my imagination.
Yuuri shows up five minutes later.
“Sorry for the wait. It took a bit of time.”
When I look up from my design, there she is—
“What the heck are you doing!?”
Tonga is an island nation consisting of about 170 islands, with its capital Nuku’alofa starting with the debated “nu” character in Hiragana. This knowledge might help in a word game.
In my confusion, I spout useless trivia. Yuuri emerges from the changing room completely naked. No, wait. She has black tape stuck here and there, but that’s it. I spit out my half-drunk melon soda.
“How is that fashion!?”
“Huh?”
“This time, I won’t be intimidated by such nonsense! I’ve thought it for a while, but Yuuri, you lack common sense. That outfit—”
“It’s a real thing.”
“It is!?”
My neck almost twists 180 degrees in shock. I nearly turned into a Rokurokubi.
When I check my phone, it’s indeed real. In fact, it’s a recently debuted fashion by a rising star designer.
“Was I the one lacking common sense…?”
“Yes.”
“Sorry.”
“It’s okay. I forgive you.”
Her kind and loving words soothe me deeply. Is this sibling love…?
“Don’t look too much, Yukito-kun! Fashion shows are so intense…”
Tristy, also in a black tape outfit (barely covering anything), appears.
“Then why did you wear it!?”
Her pale skin blushes, not just her face but her whole body.
She’s embarrassed but it’s her own responsibility.
“Oh no, even the sensible Tristy is affected!”
She’s hiding but not completely. Her size makes it impossible. This can’t go on!
Following her, the others emerge from the changing room in black tape outfits. A secret society, perhaps?
“It feels breezy. I never thought it would turn out like this.”
“Mio-san, if you’re complaining, why didn’t you stop it!?”
“Well, you’re my future boss’s son. I thought I’d suck up a little.”
“What a sly reason.”
Mio looks embarrassed too. How did they all fall for Yuuri’s angelic persuasion despite the screams? Are they all as naive as Yuuri?
“Amazing, right! This is the latest fashion!”
“Her head’s full of Venus.”
Is she serious? The goddess senpai is a bit unhinged. Maybe she’s a robot.
For some reason, she’s the only one in white tape instead of black.
Like a cinnamon roll wrapped in a white veil.
“This is revenge for not having a swimsuit episode!”
“What are you talking about!?”
Scary. I can’t understand her words. But we did have one…
“goddess sensei, please teach these people some morals—”
There’s no choice but to rely on the morally upright goddess sensei.
“Ahhhhhh!”
Despite her glamorous body, she has the least amount of black tape.
“It’s spilling out, it’s spilling out!”
It’s not just almost visible, it’s actually visible! Is that okay!?
“I’ve caused you so much trouble, consider this a thank you. Oh no, don’t look so much.”
“Of course, I’ll look!”
I take in the sight.
“With those intense stares, my body is heating up♡”
“You’re drunk without even drinking alcohol.”
The goddess sensei gives a self-deprecating chuckle.
“Is this what they call the folly of youth?”
“You’re not that young, though.”
“Do you want to be sued?”
She leans in menacingly, but her overwhelming allure makes me dizzy.
The goddess sensei’s divine body sways before me. Apollo, strumming his lyre…
“With this, you can let go of that matter, right?”
“Oh, want to drink this concentrated 100% orange juice?”
“Hehe… Hehehehe…”
When I offer the orange juice from the cooler bag, a low, rumbling laugh fills the room. Looks like this is the end for me too.
“Ah, I see. That’s how it’s going to be, huh? Fine. If you’re that eager, let’s do this. I’ve already lost my dignity once, so if you want to see it that badly, I’ll show you. This time, it won’t be behind your back. I’ll do it right in front of you, so burn it into your eyes!”
With that, she gulped down the orange juice. The goddess’s eyes were fixed. She was serious.
“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry!”
If she lost it here, it would be a guaranteed second humiliation. I prostrated myself like a grasshopper.
“Hey, what are you doing, Kuon-san?!”
The goddess senpai restrained me with a bear hug. Go, go! I silently cheered her on.
“Let go, Kyouka! Today, I’m going to teach him a lesson!”
With her finger drilling into my forehead, I couldn’t meet her gaze and stared off into the void.
“Yukito-kun, Ms. Kozukata is quite a character, isn’t she?”
“I’ve read about her online and admired her, but…”
This was entirely my fault. Normally, the goddess sensei is an exemplary person.
I registered the event as an NG word and decided not to bring it up again. My apologies.
After the commotion settled, we resumed. Why didn’t they stop this…?
I averted my eyes from Tristy and her companions walking down the runway.
“I’m going to use the photo Yukito-kun took as my phone wallpaper!”
“No, you can’t! If you do, I’ll never be able to show it to anyone again!”
No way can I let this be posted on social media. It shouldn’t even exist.
I decided to seal it under the Killing Stone for eternity and continued taking photos.
The grand fashion show thrived, ignoring my lifeless self.
“Alright, let’s have you announce the grand prize winner.”
Cheers erupted. Wait, is this the kind of event where they decide a winner?
“I didn’t score anything.”
“That’s okay, just pick your favorite. Of course, it should be me.”
“Why are you so confident…?”
Maybe Yuuri-san has the strongest mental fortitude. I should learn from her.
Everyone waited eagerly for the announcement, without a hint of dissent.
“Once, I heard that in the yutori generation, everyone held hands and won at sports festivals.”
“You have the privilege to remove the winner’s tape.”
“What are you talking about, Ghan…aaaaahhhh!”
Speaking of Ghana, the capital is Accra, and it’s famous for cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate. But actually, the top producer of cocoa is Côte d’Ivoire.
This isn’t the time for that. I must appeal to their conscience!
I grabbed a megaphone and tried to persuade them. A crucial negotiation.
“Mio-san, if you do this, Leon-san will be heartbroken. Are you okay with that?”
“I prefer younger guys. Plus, international marriages are complicated.”
“No way… how could a handsome guy lose…”
“And besides, we can only fool around like this while we’re still university students.”
Even though it sounded like she was trying to create a lasting memory, in this situation?
“Isn’t this person an adult, and she’s still goofing off?”
I looked at the goddess sensei, but she was just a beautiful, bewitching woman. I averted my gaze.
“So, have you decided who the grand prize winner is?”
I couldn’t hear who said it, but the circle around Yukito-kun was closing in.
Maybe my time to flee the country is approaching. With a suitcase.
So, what happened next?
Well, my anger reached 373 Kelvin, and I scolded them. I sternly ordered them to change immediately, and the fashion show (unofficial) concluded successfully (except for me).
The tape didn’t come off easily, so they dragged me to the shower room! And it came off normally there! How terrible. Sob, sob.
“What is this?”
After finishing my daily run and returning to my room, I found a stopwatch on my desk. I cleared away the women’s trinkets cluttering my desk.
I studied the stopwatch. I even pressed it, but it was just an ordinary stopwatch. I pressed it again to stop the count.
Maybe Yuuri-san was doing a ten-second challenge alone?
I hoped she wasn’t that lonely.
Fine, I’ll do the ten-second challenge with you.
As I thought that, I noticed a letter next to the stopwatch.
The letter was simple, not fancy, with feminine handwriting.
“What’s this? A stopwatch that can stop time?”
What? Is this some kind of magic item?
Apparently, this stopwatch was like a mysterious item from a game.
You can’t clear the dungeon or defeat the boss without it?
Although it doesn’t make sense to me at all, I continue reading the story while thinking about such unnecessary things.
It seemed to be an instruction manual for the time-stopping stopwatch.
“Really? It can actually stop time?–Is it real!?”
It’s a special cursed object! Why is something like this in my room!?
Did mom or sis get it by accident? And now they’re struggling to dispose of it. I need to contact the foundation immediately!
Who knows what disasters might happen. A stopwatch that can stop time is too much for humanity. It’s an anomaly that shouldn’t exist.
This stopwatch must have been involved in many historical incidents. It’s too dangerous. Could it have caused that global assassination, the major terror attacks, or even unsolved cases in our country…?
While I was panicking, the manual tempted me with its words.
“First, use it on the first woman you meet? You can play pranks to your heart’s content as your desires dictate.–That’s so vulgar!”
This must be it. The stopwatch absorbs desires to regain its power. Like a sealed demon sword. Maybe a terrible monster is sealed in this stopwatch.
If this got out, it would destroy the world’s order. A national crisis.
Imagining a dark future, I felt a chill. The fate of the world was in my hands.
No way. A high schooler can’t handle this. I need to get it to an expert–.
“You’re back? Welcome home. Shall we have a welcome-back kiss?”
Click
“Ah.”
I pressed the stopwatch on impulse.
Yuuri-san suddenly entered my room, so it’s natural to be startled.
She looked like she had been doing yoga, dressed in a sports bra and leggings, sweat glistening and her cheeks slightly flushed.
“Yuuri-san?… Uh, Yuuri-san?”
Her eyes widened in shock. Yuuri-san’s movements stopped completely.
As I thought, this stopwatch can really stop time!
“This is bad. I can’t resist any pranks now.”
“You’re talking!”
“…”
“Don’t go silent after remembering that.”
“…”
She was frozen, but blinking and breathing normally. It seemed that time-stopping didn’t stop vital functions. How convenient.
“What kind of extreme pranks will I face?”
“None.”
“My brother will humiliate me.”
“No, I won’t.”
“Exciting.”
“Even if you expect it…”
“Heart-pounding.”
“Even if you look at me with sparkling eyes…”
“Well? You will, right?”
“Okay.”
I slumped my shoulders. Clearly, the stopwatch was having some negative influence on Yuuri-san.
Normally, Yuuri-san is kind, pure, and virtuous. She’s an angelic figure with no selfish desires.
That even she could be affected showed just how powerful the time-stopping stopwatch was. Yuuri-san was a pitiful victim.
Then, I realized.
“You’re talking normally, so time isn’t actually stopped, is it?”
“……………..”
“You’re pulling a move like a crappy woman who suddenly goes silent when things get inconvenient.”
“……………..”
Oh, that’s right. There was something I wanted to ask Yuuri-san.
“By the way, changing the subject, is there anything you want for the new house? Like facilities?”
The plan is progressing steadily, but since the land is unexpectedly spacious, we have quite a bit of leeway.
So, we’re brushing up and reconsidering various aspects from the initial plan.
“A seggs room.”
“A spear room?… I see, an armory.”
Indeed, compared to a security-tight apartment, a detached house is inferior in crime prevention.
While spears might be excessive, preparing a room with crime prevention goods for emergencies could be one countermeasure. As expected of Yuuri-san. She’s so family-oriented.
“Anything else?”
“Make a hole in one of the walls.”
“Perhaps a hyper-art Thomasson?”
“No. My body gets stuck in there, and my butt can’t get out. Then you–“
“That’ll do.”
I silence Yuuri-san by putting duct tape over her mouth. It seems she’s been taken over by some cursed power and won’t release me unless I play a prank. Even if you say that, what kind of prank am I supposed to do?
“Hmm. Should I go with the classic and write something on her forehead with a marker?”
“Shake shake.”
“Time is supposed to be stopped, yet you’re expressing your will normally…”
“……………..”
“Damn it!”
I stomp my feet in frustration. With my poor imagination, the only pranks I can think of are setting up a pitfall or wedging an eraser in the classroom door. I think the success rate of that eraser prank is zero, so why did it become so widespread? Isn’t the person who first invented it strutting around proudly?
“I’ve worked up a sweat, so I need to take off my clothes.”
“Finally, you’re leading me on yourself!?”
The duct tape had been mercilessly removed.
“……………..”
“Huh, I’m supposed to undress you?”
“Nod nod.”
“No way.”
“What? You’ll catch a cold if you don’t take a bath.”
“That’s too tyrannical!”
“What should we do. I can’t move. I’m about to suffer. I wonder what kind of punishment I, who’s usually tyrannical to my brother, will receive in this perfect opportunity. Oh no.”
“……………..”
“Stop being the one to go silent.”
“Okay.”
Sniff sniff. Hey, are you really going to make me undress you?
Yuuri-san is very lightly dressed. It wouldn’t be difficult to undress her physically, but the mental difficulty is high.
“It’s so frustrating to be unable to resist being pranked! Now’s the chance, a big chance!”
Yuuri-san, still perfectly still, cheers me on.
As I gradually slide Yuuri-san’s sports bra upwards in a state of despair, I was desperately racking my brains to escape this hell festival.
“That’s it!”
Why didn’t I realize such a simple thing? I’m beyond dense. The cause of this fatal situation is the stopwatch that can stop time, isn’t it?
Phew, I’m relieved. Then I just need to make time move again. I panicked for nothing. Am I too stupid? They say humans narrow their perspective when cornered, so this is what it means. It was a good experience. From now on, I’ll do my best to stay calmer!
“Sorry, sorry, Yuuri-san. I’ll make it so you can move now.”
Click.
“Just hurry up and undress me. It’s irritating. I can’t move, you know. You want to take a bath too after coming back from your run, right? Let’s take one together.”
“Aaaaaaaah! The stopwatch is broken!?”
I slam the stopwatch onto the bed. Ah, I’ve lost. It’s my complete defeat.
Okay, okay. Let’s be graceful about this.
After that, I ended up undressing the still-frozen Yuuri-san and taking a bath together.
As a side note, when Mom tried the stopwatch after coming back from work, time stopped again. No doubt about it. It’s a real anomaly. Object class: Keter.
And of course, I ended up taking a bath with her too.
“I’ll never use it again!”
I shout these sore loser words to no one in particular in my room.
“Then I’ll use it.”
Click.
“Ah.”
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