CH#298

#298

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Those who seek answers, and those who provide them. How do people navigate the choices forced upon them?

Before homeroom began, during the morning commute, students could be seen throughout the school presenting gifts to the opposite sex. Some did so in the shadows, others in the open courtyard.

 

There were also those who exchanged gifts as a matter-of-fact, straight at the entrance.

Changing into indoor shoes and climbing the stairs, passing by students facing each other at the stair landing. I wouldn’t engage in rude behaviour like staring directly at others, but I would subtly observe their situation as I passed by.

…I remember seeing this couple in the class next to me. With the package handed from the female student to the male, their hands intertwined in a slightly embarrassed manner.

At that very moment, a new couple was born in Sakuranaoka Academy.

 

Approaching the area where the stairs led up, several students from the same class as the couple gathered to witness the outcome and offered cheers. It felt like a festival.

As they exclaimed, “Yeah!” in unison, for some reason, I felt like covering my ears.

Why “Yeah”? I wonder.

 

I couldn’t help but hallucinate that it was a boisterous student speech, given that most students were saying it.

Beyond the backs of those who passed by, there would probably be a soft drink party in celebration of the newly formed couple.

Maybe even these two couples will cause a commotion.

 

Feeling like I had witnessed a decisive moment early in the morning, I advanced to the front of the classroom. The sliding door opened slowly.

The stares directed at me for a brief moment, and then quickly averted, were familiar. Only Kirasaka, immersed in reading, remained indifferent to the classroom’s usual atmosphere.

Even within the classroom, she didn’t blend into the air.

She alone, sitting there, seemed to exude a different atmosphere.

 

“…”

 

The gazes that had been directed at me had already dispersed. Despite being a special event, her usual figure and the familiar indifference of the classroom atmosphere made me smile inwardly.

Just for a moment, I thought I might see a slightly different Kirasaka.

But that faint expectation vanished without a trace.

Noticing that I had entered the classroom and was approaching my seat, Kirasaka closed the book she was reading and smiled, directing her eyes towards me.

 

“Good morning, Shinra-kun.”

 

“…Good morning.”

 

Placing my belongings to the side, I took a breath, having reached the sanctuary of the classroom. Before meeting Kirasaka’s eyes, I pondered my thoughts.

Undoubtedly, the developments that would follow here would be similar to those with the president.

 

However, the unpredictable factor was what action Kirasaka would take.

Even President, although different from her usual self, showed a mischievous action. That’s why the actions Kirasaka would take were somewhat terrifying.

Because she enjoys seeing my reactions, whether or not I’ll meet her expectations…

 

And for some reason, I found myself thinking about unnecessary things that weren’t needed.

And then, for some reason, there was movement beside me. Kirasaka, holding the school-issued bag, reached into it.

Showing signs of searching for something, she took out an orange-wrapped package.

 

Is everything okay? It’s just one, right?

The image of Senpai this morning, presenting two items, flashed in my mind. However, it turned out to be needless worry as Kirasaka took out only one and returned the bag to its original position.

 

“…”

 

Kirasaka gazed at the unwrapped package for a moment, as if contemplating something. However, when she directed her gaze towards me, she immediately placed the package on the edge of my desk as if nothing had happened.

 

“Here, a present from me.”

 

“Thank you…”

 

“What? You seem surprised. Is something wrong?”

 

I glanced at the placed package. It was neatly wrapped, exuding a warmth that indicated it was handcrafted. However… Maybe I was just overly afraid of Kirasaka.

 

“It’s nothing. Thank you.”

 

“All right, you’re welcome.”

 

After expressing my gratitude to Kirasaka, she smiled faintly and resumed her reading. …Is it over?

I had witnessed the reactions of those around me on the way to this classroom—through the commuting route, the main gate, and inside the school building. Her easygoing flow of actions left my thoughts temporarily suspended.

 

However, feeling it would be impolite to leave the gift untouched, I cautiously picked it up and examined it thoroughly.

…She had mentioned hoping I’d look forward to the taste, but what could she have made?

 

The weight seemed slightly lighter than President’s paper bag. Perhaps it was something small.

Cookies? Or maybe something like chocolate-covered strawberries? Probably not a cake.

Contemplating whether to open it or not, Kirasaka turned her gaze towards me again.

 

“What are you doing? Eat it already.”

 

“Oh, you want me to eat it now?”

 

“I don’t want you reacting somewhere I can’t see.”

 

“Right…”

 

I thought she might prefer me to enjoy it privately, especially since she had resumed reading. After all, she could witness my reaction before anyone else.

Today, I finally saw a side of her that felt typical.

Carefully unwrapping the orange package, underneath was a brown box. Opening the lid revealed six small sweets wrapped in white paper.

Peeling off the wrapping with my fingertips and delicately placing it in my mouth, I finally understood what she had made.

 

“Caramel, huh?”

 

“Yes, chocolate-flavored caramel.”

 

The moment it touched my tongue, a bitter chocolate flavour spread, followed by the caramel melting sweetly. It was delicious… embarrassingly so.

It was so good that I hesitated to voice it.

And Kirasaka, confident in her creation, waited for my reaction with a smug smile.

 

“…It’s delicious.”

 

“I made it myself. Isn’t that obvious?”

 

Kirasaka proclaimed with confidence, and I couldn’t help but frown at her boastful tone. Of course, I knew she was a versatile girl with excellent domestic skills, but a bit more modesty or shyness would have been nice.

Because, recently, the cool characters in the late-night anime I watched blushed when praised. I, a guy easily influenced by anime, fell into that category.

Frustrated, I immediately tried to put the second caramel in my mouth, but Kirasaka’s small white hand seemed to jump in front of my vision to stop me.

 

“There’s a hidden element that makes it even more delicious.”

 

“Hidden element? I’m not the type to fall for the usual pattern that kids love. Tell me about it.”

 

Kirasaka gestured with her hands, indicating that she wanted the candy I was holding. I placed the caramel in my right hand on her palm.

Just like when I ate it, she unwrapped it and delicately held it with her beautiful fingers.

 

“Open your mouth. This is an element that you can’t enjoy on your own.”

 

“Suspicious, but…”

 

Nevertheless, I had no choice but to comply. I opened my mouth slightly, watching her movements in my somewhat obstructed field of vision. She momentarily squinted her eyes and smiled.

 

“Come on, say ‘ah.’”

 

“…”

 

Kirasaka intentionally spoke loudly enough for the whole class to hear, and with an exaggerated tone, she placed a piece in my mouth. Feeling the chocolate flavour spread on my tongue, I quickly closed my mouth and glanced around unconsciously.

As Kirasaka had anticipated, the classmates directed their gazes toward us. The girls looked warmly at our actions, exchanging hushed whispers, while the boys glared at me as if casting a curse.

…What’s the hidden element?

 

Even the atmosphere in the class has turned bitter, thanks to this chocolate. I squinted my eyes and considered saying something to the girl next to us, but Kirasaka asked the same question again.

 

“How is it? Is it delicious?”

 

“…It’s delicious, but…”

 

“I see… I’m glad.”

 

When I honestly conveyed my impression, Kirasaka’s reaction was different from before. She still had her hand on her right cheek, but her expression was more girlish, and she showed a bright smile that she didn’t usually reveal.

 

…When I see a smile like this, I can’t bring myself to criticize her. Still, the second one might indeed taste better than the first.

Perhaps the hidden element was the magical touch of the contrast from her usual self.

 

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<BBX> : Mistranslated Shinra as Masa last chapter, sorry for that…
<Author-san> : Next is Shizuku.

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CH#297

#297

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The same path, the same scenery, students wearing the same uniform moving in the same direction. However, if there is something different than usual, it would be the restlessness and unease among male students and the tense expressions mixed among the female students.

The reason is simple, yet complicated. Expectations and anxieties about receiving chocolates, worries about whether they can give them or if they will be accepted.

 

Most students are optimistic if they already have a partner or if they simply consider this event irrelevant to them.

Looking at the students of the same school early in the morning, my brain works well, probably because I’ve already consumed an excess of family love and sugar from the early morning. Additionally, I’ve taken in a considerable amount of caffeine, so drowsiness has flown away somewhere around Kyushu. <BBX: The southernmost 3^rd of the 4 largest islands of Japan, context meaning: far away>

On the way to school, I felt like I saw a familiar brown-haired guy surrounded by multiple female students, getting attention. Let’s pretend I didn’t see that, but I won’t forget to leak the information to Miyashita after arriving at school.

It’s good to expose yourself to those freezing eyes.

 

Normally, my childhood friend would be next to me, chatting happily, but today the commute felt especially quiet.

Shizuku had already gone to school, busy with the final preparations with Miura. Considering only today, it’s good that it’s quiet—no jealous looks from boys.

 

Casually, I walk the familiar path for about thirty minutes. As I bring the familiar main gate into view, I simultaneously spot a student standing in front of it.

I can’t help but let out a wry smile at her calmly standing figure. Why hasn’t she changed at all?

As I approach the main gate, she notices and greets me with a gentle smile.

 

“Good morning, Shinra.”

 

“President… Good morning.”

 

The person exchanging greetings with the students in front of the main gate is Hiiragi Akane, the former student council president. There are no armbands on her arms, and since today is not an activity day, there is no sign of the student council next to her.

However, her figure is engraved in the consciousness of not only me but many students as an ordinary part of everyday life.

Even so…

 

“…It feels strangely nostalgic.”

 

About three months have passed since she resigned as the president during the cultural festival. Although everyone thinks it’s a normal sight, it might not be a mistake to feel strangely nostalgic.

The third-year students are already in the free commuting period. Most of the classes have finished, leaving only preparations for the graduation ceremony.

Therefore, seeing third-year students has become rare these days. Yet, she is standing in front of the main gate in the morning as if it were the most natural thing to do.

 

“Oh, really? Well, I did come to greet you this morning while waiting for you.”

 

“Did you, by any chance, send a message or something…?”

 

“No, I didn’t specifically inform you. But you should understand the reason given today, right?”

 

“Ah…”

 

Valentine’s Day.

A slightly embarrassed feeling welled up within me.

Considering I had just experienced what would be presented afterward, it felt a bit awkward.

President picked up her bag placed beside the main gate, turned around, and spoke.

 

“Well then… It’s embarrassing for me too. Come over here for a moment.”

 

“President also experiences embarrassment?”

 

“Even I am just an ordinary girl, you know.”

 

Looking around, she pointed to a spot not too crowded with students and grabbed the sleeve of my uniform, leading me there.

As I unintentionally let out my true feelings, the president blushed slightly and said, “Well…”

 

Ahem Ahem.

Covering her mouth and deliberately letting out a forced cough, the president carefully took out the anticipated item from her bag.

Then, lifting it in front of her chest without blushing this time, she declared.

 

“Now, once again, it’s Valentine’s chocolate. I made it especially for you, so I want you to accept it.”

 

“…But there are two?”

 

“There are two.”

 

The raised arm holds two chocolates—meaning, two in total right in front of me.

It was inevitable for me to ask one thing.

 

“So, you mean I should choose one?”

 

“No, one is for me. So, Shinra, choose which one you want.”

 

“This seems like a difficult question to handle early in the morning…”

 

Naturally, I think it’s okay to accept both if two are offered. However, President said that would be wrong in this case.

One is for herself, and the other is for me.

 

What kind of predicament is this…

It feels like an excessively difficult problem, especially for the morning.

Certainly, having overdosed on sugar and caffeine from early in the morning doesn’t mean I can answer challenging questions.

Or perhaps, is the complexity and intricacy of a maiden’s heart like this?

 

…I’m troubled because I can’t understand President’s intention.

Staring intently at the two chocolates, I was about to ask President, who looked delighted, what she meant.

 

“One is homemade, and the other is a store-bought one chosen considering your taste. Which one would you choose if I said that?”

 

“I think using the same paper bag for both with identical appearances is a bit evil.”

 

“I’m enjoying seeing what kind of reaction and answer you come up with, so it’s not wrong.”

 

Both in identical light blue paper bags.

With President’s words, the answer transformed into something even more challenging and intricate.

The chestnut-colored hair shining in the morning sun, along with that sly smile, irritated me for a moment.

 

…I wanted to change that overly composed expression even just a little.

In the brief moment, numerous choices floated and disappeared in my mind, repeating the process.

All of them seemed within President’s expectations, easily returned like marking answers on an exam sheet.

So, I changed my thinking to a slightly twisted perspective.

 

“…Is any choice acceptable?”

 

“Refusing isn’t an option; even this would hurt.”

 

“Don’t say such things… Then…”

 

In the instant I received the two bags offered by the president with both hands, I felt the temperature of her skin through the touch.

Her fingertips were cold, probably having waited for quite a while in front of the main gate.

Given my irregular commuting time, President must have had no choice but to patiently wait, thinking ahead.

If only she had sent a message…

 

But thinking that I shouldn’t say such things, I refrained from expressing that sentiment.

Holding the handed paper bags, I thought about such things. Then, I offered a bag to President in the same way.

 

“Here.”

 

“…What’s this?”

 

Suppressing a grin that was about to appear, I replied. Obviously, it wasn’t meant as a return gift.

 

“You choose, President. Which one will you give to me?”

 

“Hmm… I see what you’re doing.”

 

“If it comes to being sly, I won’t lose either.”

 

If one is homemade and the other is store-bought, it’s only natural for the maiden’s heart to want to hand over the homemade one.

So, if I throw the choice back to the president, she would naturally keep the store-bought one for herself and give me the homemade one.

 

And then, President would undoubtedly enjoy watching me struggle to decide which one is homemade.

After all, considering her admiration for Kirasaka, who she treats like a real sister, she must possess a similar playful side.

Well, I also want to try the chocolate President has prepared.

 

“Of course, for Shinra—”

 

“Wait, President, you’re not going back on what you said earlier, are you?”

 

“…?”

 

President changed her sly smile to a surprisingly puzzled expression. Finally, she puffed out her cheeks slightly in frustration. She seemed about to correct herself, but I immediately added a provoking remark.

If a younger boy says something like that, cheeks tend to puff up even more.

 

…Well, there’s no need to get that upset.

I don’t want to accept store-bought goods on this occasion either.

Besides, it’s okay if my turn continues a bit longer. After all, these situations rarely occur, given that it’s often the turns of the women around me.

Quietly observing me, President slowly pointed to the paper bag in my right hand, as if resigning herself to something. Then, she muttered in a small voice.

 

“This one…”

 

“…Well then, I’ll gratefully accept it. Since it’s a rare chance, I’d like to try President’s homemade chocolate.”

 

Perfect. Everything went smoothly.

This might be the first time my strategy worked straightforwardly against President.

I’ll savour this chocolate properly and make sure to express my thoughts and give a return gift on White Day.

 

However, since I can only manage something like boiling water and three-minute cooking, the return gift might end up being store-bought. Please overlook that.

As I was about to express my gratitude to the president and put the bag into my bag, she muttered with a slightly sulky tone.

 

“…Both are homemade. You’re so dense.”

 

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<Author-san> : Next is Kirasaka’s turn.

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CH#296

#296

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“Happy Valentine!”

 

In the Shinra household, cheerful voices overlapped as Shizuku and Mom handed me two beautifully wrapped gifts early in the morning.

It was February 14th, Valentine’s Day.

In the world, it’s a day when women give chocolates to men. Recently, it has become common to give chocolates to same-sex friends as a sign of friendship, but the unchanged enthusiasm still colors not only the surroundings but also the streets.

 

And our house is no exception.

The small packages handed to me by my sister and mother were filled with chocolates from the corner to the corner, adorned with plenty of heart shapes.

If you’re not a sweet tooth, just this much could lead to heartburn.

 

“Thanks…”

 

It had become an annual tradition, but it’s always nice to receive something. After expressing my gratitude to the two, I turned my gaze to the other family member sitting on the sofa in the living room.

My father, who usually works overseas, was sitting at home today, reading the newspaper with an innocent expression.

The reason was simple; he had been eagerly anticipating Valentine’s chocolate from his beloved wife and daughter. Even in his busy schedule, this event was an indispensable and crucial affair for him as a father.

 

“…”

 

“What…?”

 

“Nothing.”

 

I unintentionally asked when I felt his gaze, but as if nothing had happened, he returned his eyes to the newspaper, and the words that came out of his mouth were short.

It seemed that his mood was a bit off, probably because of what I was holding in my hands.

On the table in front of my father, there was a similarly wrapped confectionery.

 

In terms of order, I don’t think there’s anything strange, considering that my father was awake early to receive it. However…

To my questioning gaze, Kaede spoke as if representing our father’s feelings.

 

“Dad is sulking because your chocolate is bigger, Nii-san.”

 

“Is he a child…?”

 

Come on…

Since it’s homemade, there might naturally be some difference in size. I’m starting to feel like the one sulking here is the one approaching forty.

As I sighed, Kaede raised her eyebrows, murmured in a low voice, and showed a slight smile.

 

“You’ll understand when you become a father. Whether you find a partner or not is uncertain, though.”

 

“You’re saying one too many things. Dad was probably the type picked up by Mom.”

 

Also, this father has children.

Regardless of the outcome, he was picked up by Mom, so I don’t want to hear anything about a partner from him.

 

“Come on, both of you, no fighting in the morning.”

 

As a chilly atmosphere lingered between father and son from the beginning of the day, Mom, who intervened, changed the air completely. Just like that, with a single word from Mom, I averted my gaze, and she moved towards the table after pouring vegetable juice into a glass from the refrigerator.

Observing the received gift once again, Mom added some information and opened her mouth.

 

“Kaede was so determined this year, she even asked your father for chocolates from overseas.”

 

“Oh, really…”

 

Even as my sister, admiration leaked out for her enthusiasm. However, there didn’t seem to be a reason to devote more effort than usual this year, as it wasn’t a celebratory year.

Looking at Kaede, who was praising herself, I easily got the answer from my sister.

 

“There seem to be many rivals this year—Shizuku-san, Rei-san, and even Akane-san. If that’s the case, I have to do my best too!”

 

“We’re a family, so it should be priceless.”

 

“After all, not wanting to lose to others is the heart of a maiden! Now, Nii-san, eat it!”

 

Kaede urged me to eat with her palm pushing my hand from below towards my mouth. I involuntarily flinched.

My stomach, speaking in the manner of a teenage guy, was saying it might survive with minor injuries, but it was definitely claiming that this wasn’t the first thing it wanted this morning.

 

“Starting the day with a sugar boost… At least after breakfast, please.”

 

While feeling a bit guilty against my sparkling-eyed sister, I considered begging for vegetable juice at least if breakfast was a no-go. As I returned my words, Mom, unsurprisingly, wasn’t silent.

 

“No sweets in the morning.”

 

Of course…

Not many parents would allow their children to eat sweets before having the breakfast their mother prepared.

Taking the package into my palm and placing it gently on the counter nearby, I moved the chair where Kaede and I were sitting back, and Dad moved to the seat opposite us.

 

“Recently, it seems like my Nii-san has been neglecting family service. So, this imouto wants her brother to show some family love before going to school.”

 

“Yeah, yeah…”

 

As I sat down, shoulder to shoulder with my sister, I raised the glass to my mouth with my left hand, while using my right hand to gently pat Kaede’s head, showing a somewhat perfunctory attitude towards my sister’s complaints. This might seem like a small thing, but surprisingly, it’s quite effective.

Smiling with raised corners of her mouth and closed eyes, Kaede presented a passive gaze, as if a cat were being petted. Oh, brother, my sister might be too cheeky, and I might be a bit worried about her future.

Will she be swindled by a bad person? It looks like a lifetime employment for the big brother is needed to protect her surroundings.

 

“Oh, if you’re going to provide a service to your sister, you should also be filial to your parents!”

 

“…Why do we have to perform a rigid family friendship drama on a morning with school?”

 

I unintentionally muttered my honest feelings in response to Mom, who leaned forward from the table, showing her competitive spirit. Unleashing a movie-like drama on family love right from the early morning is an excess of sugar compared to chocolates.

Finally, after sighing, I emptied the glass of the drink and picked up chopsticks to have breakfast. Kaede then leaned her head on my shoulder, making it a bit difficult to eat.

Eating like this is quite challenging.

However, this is Minato-kun’s quality; not pushing her away.

 

“What’s up?”

 

While reaching for the fried egg with my chopsticks, I asked. The eternal debate of whether to use soy sauce or sauce on a fried egg could be the subject of an everlasting thesis.

 

“Hmm, did you feel happy to receive chocolate from me, big brother?”

 

“Don’t ask the obvious. Is there a big brother who wouldn’t be happy to receive chocolate from his sister?”

 

“Then… more than from Shizuku-san and the others?”

 

“…It’s wrong to compare. There’s gratitude, but there’s no need for comparison.”

 

As I answered Kaede’s question, my sister smiled satisfied. It seemed like she was expressing with her expression that the expected answer had been received.

 

“Since I’m having breakfast, move away.”

 

“Just a little more~”

 

…The food is getting cold.

Even so, the undeniable evidence that I can’t push her away is my sister’s sweetness.

 

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CH#295

#295

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In the unchanging daily life, in the repetitive days at the school.

Most students understand this in their heads, but unconsciously push that thought to the back of their minds. Even if it’s a routine and unchanging daily life, it is a unique daily life.

Yesterday will never come again. Even if you do the same thing today as you did tomorrow, it will be completely different.

 

It seems the same, and that’s why the routine appears to continue endlessly, creating an illusion.

People, students, shouldn’t they cherish this seemingly ordinary daily life? When it comes to an end, without regrets or things left undone.

I pondered in the classroom where only Shizuku and I were present.

The calendar reflecting in the corner of my vision had a circle on February 1st, indicating that today finally entered February.

And on the dates of the next month, a flower was marked on the fourth.

 

The graduation ceremony, the day when Hiiragi Akane departs from this school.

That’s why, probably.

I was struggling to think about things I wouldn’t usually consider, trying to find answers.

Is it okay to say that unless I come up with my own answer, I won’t be able to clear up the confusion in my heart?

Perhaps having sensed it from my expression, Shizuku, who had taken a seat where Kirasaka usually sat, looked at me and spoke.

 

“You’re thinking about something difficult again, Minato-kun.”

 

“… It’s not particularly difficult, though.”

 

“But when Minato-kun is thinking, these little wrinkles appear.”

 

As she said that, Shizuku put her finger on her own forehead, murmuring a small “hmm” while frowning slightly. When I put my hand on my forehead as suggested, I did notice that there were more wrinkles, transforming my usual unfriendly expression into an even more grumpy one.

 

Letting out a breath as if exhaling along with the mist that had accumulated inside, I stretched out the wrinkles, conscious of returning to my usual self. Seeing Shizuku return to her usual expression, I nodded once. She then brought her desk close to mine, swaying her legs and humming, turning her gaze back to the front.

…She seems unusually cheerful. Is it because Kirasaka is outside the classroom, teaching Miura the finishing touches of making sweets?

Even if Kirasaka is not here, I can’t imagine that Shizuku would be in such a good mood.

 

“You’re unusually cheerful today…”

 

I directed my gaze at her and Shizuku opened her mouth with an overflowing smile.

 

“It’s been a while since I had time alone with Minato-kun!”

 

“Is that so?”

 

“Yes!”

 

The answer was so unexpected that I couldn’t help but ask her again, and she answered right away.

I wonder…

Reflecting on my memories, I had mostly spent time with Shizuku, Kirasaka, Yuuto, the Student Council members, and the others. I felt like there were times when it was just Shizuku and me, but since she said so, it must be true.

Now, there are only Shizuku and me in the classroom.

 

Genuinely alone time.

Thinking about it, I unintentionally spilled out words about the changes that had occurred in less than a year.

 

“I’ve changed quite a bit in a year… until last year, it was mostly just Shizuku or Yuuto around me.”

 

“…Do you dislike the current environment?”

 

I thought about it, and while there were many things I found troublesome, there wasn’t much that I hated.

If it weren’t for them, my answer would have been different. In the end, I liked everyone, and I’ve managed to build a good friendship.

 

“I don’t dislike it… Well, if I did, I’d say it honestly and keep my distance.”

 

“I see… Minato-kun is honest about those things.”

 

With a slightly relieved, somewhat sad expression, Shizuku smiled. In truth, she might have wanted to see me getting along with more people.

Perhaps she didn’t want to see me being disliked or talked about behind my back.

It’s all speculation, and I have no confidence in correctly grasping her feelings.

 

But, maybe that’s the case.

Even if I apologized there, it’s easy to say sorry. However, apologizing would mean admitting that my actions so far were wrong.

Until now and in the future, I’ve believed that the choices I’ve made were the best in the given situations. Even if others dislike me, I moved forward in the direction I believed in.

And that’s why Shizuku doesn’t say anything because she acknowledges my choices and actions.

A moment of silence fell between us, but it was soon broken by a single remark from Shizuku.

 

“After Valentine’s Day, there’s only the graduation ceremony, right?”

 

“Yeah… just one more month.”

 

There’s one more month until the graduation ceremony. And a few days after the graduation ceremony, the second-year closing ceremony will be held, marking the beginning of spring break.

After the short break, we, as the highest grade, will continue attending this school. The classes will be reorganized based on job aspirations, further education preferences, and the chosen department, so it’s possible that we won’t all be together.

The current life, as well as the future, may seem normal and unchanging, but the end is drawing nearer every moment.

Perhaps that’s why, unconsciously, I was stringing words together.

 

“I’ll miss her…”

 

“Eh…?”

 

Shizuku looked unusually surprised and stared at me. Her eyes widened, and her mouth, slightly open, seemed to tremble as if she were about to say something, but no words came out.

At that moment, my smartphone, tucked into my uniform, vibrated several times. It must be a message from Kirasaka informing me that the prototype was ready.

 

Having heard that she would notify me in advance, I understood the meaning without opening the screen. I stood up, grabbed my belongings, and Shizuku, understanding that we were heading to the home economics room, hurriedly prepared herself.

During the short time it took for her to get ready, I pondered about the upcoming school life.

Let’s assume, for example, that I won’t be in the same class as Shizuku, Kirasaka, or Yuuto.

 

The class would be noisy, but I’d spend my time alone, looking out of the window while thinking it’s too noisy.

Without the sudden heart-throbbing pranks from the side, without the jealousy-filled glares from other boys at the casual skinship with my childhood friend, without friends approaching during break times to chat about uninteresting topics, and without the forcibly recruited senpai in the student council looking at me with disappointment after every student council activity.

Everything would remain the same, just a few lingering connections from the second year.

 

No big deal, as I’ve spent my entire high school life in this environment.

But the more I imagined it, the more I couldn’t shake off the feeling of loneliness and the sharp pain in my chest. I will never forget the sensations I’ve never felt before in my lifetime.

 

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CH#294

#294

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Silently erasing the lesson content written on the blackboard, one of the duties of the day’s rotation, a slightly higher-pitched squeaky sound echoes through the school building, replaced by the voice of a female student reaching my ears.

 

“I wonder how many chocolates Minato has received so far?”

 

Leaning on the teacher’s desk with both elbows and giving me a challenging smile, Kirasaka, I sighed.

 

“…Does family count in the number?”

 

“Let’s not count them. Surprisingly, you’re willing to answer.”

 

“I can imagine being asked multiple times until I answer.”

 

Turning my gaze back to the blackboard, I recall the bitter memories. In elementary and middle school, there were times when female classmates prepared chocolates for everyone but deliberately left out mine, saying, “I haven’t prepared enough.”

I remember the days when I, unable to ask the obvious question of why, silently observed the backs of male students enjoying the attention.

…Come to think of it, there was a boy who, misunderstanding the situation because he received a slightly larger size than others, bragged about it, thinking a girl had a crush on him.

 

Thinking about it, with handmade chocolates, it’s easy to imagine that the sizes could be different, but Valentine’s Day can create misunderstandings.

I wonder if that classmate, who boasted to friends and later confessed in vain, is still living a lively life.

As for the fall, it’s a secret only here that the classmate had feelings for Yuuto and lined up in the confession line on the day of middle school graduation.

Indeed, he’s handsome, so he must be condemned as an evil.

Returning to my thoughts on the number of chocolates, or rather, there was no need to think about it.

 

“One.”

 

“Oh… only from Kanazaki-san, huh?”

 

“Stop with the pitiful eyes.”

 

I inform Kirasaka with indifference, then place the eraser I was holding at the edge and lightly brush off my hands.

In the back of the classroom, before heading to the home economics room, Shizuku and Miura discuss recipes for our class. Nearby, Yuuto occasionally receives advice from the two from a male perspective. Miyashita’s figure is also there.

It’s a gathering of members who usually share their lives.

In the midst of that, the fact that Kirasaka has walked up to the teacher’s desk instead of going to her seat means that she has no interest or concern in that conversation.

 

…The possibility of avoiding Yuuto cannot be denied.

Well, competing for the number of Valentine’s chocolates is like a ranking battle among the high caste in our school.

If girls were to hear about it, they would likely be indignant at the rudeness.

So, standing confidently and facing me she raises three fingers.

 

“Be relieved. This year, three is a certainty.”

 

“You can say that to someone you confidently give them to. That’s amazing…”

 

“There’s no need to hide or be ashamed of it, so it’s natural.”

 

Returning the body that had been leaning forward to the teacher’s desk to its original position, she releases a gentle, flowery fragrance as she turns around.

Taking a few steps back, she sits on the front row desk. Crossing her legs, she gazes at me with a look as if she’s checking my reaction.

This gaze will never be something I get used to. It feels like being tested, and it always leaves my heart pounding after I answer.

 

“Shizuku, Kirasaka, and President…?”

 

“Correct. It’s just like you not to consider Miura-san and Miyashita-san as candidates.”

 

“I just stated the obvious… Those two are more interested in what’s in front of them than obligatory chocolates.”

 

I shift the gaze from Kirasaka to the group in the back.

Certainly, the scene beyond doesn’t change, but among the four, Shizuku and Miyashita show a significantly higher level of interest in the conversation.

For Miura, it’s a valuable opportunity to receive advice from boys, and for Miyashita, the person she’s giving chocolates to is talking about his preferences.

There shouldn’t be any better judgment criteria.

On the other hand, my personal information, such as the number of chocolates I’ve received, isn’t something I want to talk about and doesn’t become a cause for pessimism.

 

“It was an uninteresting answer, wasn’t it?”

 

“No, from my perspective, it’s a delightful answer.”

 

When I ask her, she shakes her head and says, “No.” I wonder what made that content tickle her fancy so much.

Waiting for Kirasaka to continue her words, she says.

 

“At least, other than Kanazaki-san, it also means there’s no one else on Valentine’s Day who left a good memory in your mind.”

 

“…Is that so?”

 

“It is. Girls tend to care about such small details.”

 

Her chuckling smile, directed towards me, is probably a rare sight for other male students. I realize it’s a luxury.

Many students must wish they could have her gifts so badly it feels like their hands are coming out of their throats.

That’s why I can’t help but think about the gazes from those around me.

My usual relationships, and the evaluation from the same grade that has plummeted due to the school trip incident.

 

Additionally, Valentine’s Day is waiting to deliver another blow.

It’s easy to become arrogant and hold one’s head high, but it’s the worst choice.

I no longer have the luxury of being in a position where I can be selfish and rely solely on my own evaluations and rumors.

 

“At least, can you give it to me where no one is around?”

 

“Oh, my, Minato is starting to say he wants to be alone with me too.”

 

“How positive can one be…”

 

With a surprised expression, Kirasaka declares as if it were a pleasant miscalculation, and in contrast, I respond with a bitter expression. She laughs joyfully, and each reaction seems to be crafted to suit her intentions, making the conversation enjoyable for her alone.

Stepping down from the desk as if hopping lightly to the floor, Kirasaka closes her left eyelid and sends a cute wink.

 

“I’ll make something that you’ll say was the most delicious thing in your life. Look forward to it.”

 

“…”

 

With only that remark, Kirasaka turns around and walks towards the four people at the back of the classroom.

Her bold actions and words are something I can’t imitate.

That’s why, she looks so bright in my eyes.

This can be said not only for her but also for the others.

As she takes steps further away, a different breath escape from me than before.

 

However, any sense of admiration is overshadowed by the beaming smile on Shizuku’s face, who Kirasaka approaches.

 

“…”

 

“…”

 

Why can she intimidate people with such a smile?

Perhaps, from other’s point of view, the two engaged in conversation seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Come to think of it, Kirasaka mentioned earlier. Girls tend to care about small things.

 

This, too, should be taken as a lesson to try to live each day with that in mind.

And so, another day comes to an end.

 

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<BBX> : Another day, another excuse, hostel wifi wasn’t working yesterday. 😅

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CH#293

#293

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“Shoichi doesn’t like chocolate… I never would have expected that.”

 

In the student council room, with only the three of us after today’s activities, Miura muttered while holding her head in both hands, her posture slumped. Her voice contained a mix of astonishment and unease.

From a slightly behind Miura, I called out.

 

“You, who has known him the longest, didn’t know. Didn’t you give him anything last year?”

 

Among the people I knew, Miura was the one who knew Koizumi Shoichi better than anyone else. If she didn’t know, it meant this information was unknown to the majority.

 

“If I recall correctly, last year I still thought of him as just another member of the student council.”

 

“Well, that makes sense.”

 

Well, it was a predictable response. If she thought of him as just another student council member last year, it wasn’t strange that she didn’t know.

Everyone has different tastes.

There are as many preferences as there are people. So, I don’t find it strange no matter what kind of food someone likes. Still…

 

“His favourite sweets are traditional Japanese ones, mainly daifuku, manju, and senbei.”

 

“Completely an old man’s taste… I forgot about it myself. His preferences lean toward the refined.”

 

Shizuku, based on the conversation she had with Koizumi a while ago, continued to talk about the sweets he likes. As she spoke, Miura, who had been holding her head, began to sway her body left and right while whispering.

Right.

I was thinking the same thing. From the perspective of high school boys of the same age, his choices are indeed sophisticated. While young people tend to prefer snacks like potato chips, chocolate, and gummies, choosing only traditional Japanese sweets is not a dislikeable attitude.

 

“I don’t think it is just limited to just chocolate.”

 

I asked while leaning against the wall, to which Shizuku responded.

 

“All our practice so far has been limited to chocolate. So, it’s natural that Miura-san can confidently make them…”

 

“Chocolate, huh?”

 

I don’t know the extent of Miura’s cooking skills, but it seems she doesn’t enjoy a wide variety of sweets like Shizuku or Kirasaka. Well, comparing her to them is already a mistake…

An awkward atmosphere began to spread in the student council room. To interrupt it, Miura, with a heavy sigh, finally lifted herself from her chair. Although her expression remained somewhat dark, her usual fearless eyes returned. She sighed once more as she spoke.

 

“…There’s no point in mulling over it. The fact that I didn’t give him sweets he dislikes is a positive piece of information.”

 

“If it’s traditional Japanese sweets, I’ve had some experience making them too! I hope I can be of help.”

 

“Thank you. It’s very reassuring.”

 

With a slightly softer smile than usual, Miura expressed her gratitude, and then, with a determined look, Shizuku offered her encouragement.

It was a heartwarming scene, typical of youth. It felt somewhat out of place, like peeking into an all-girls space and witnessing a clandestine meeting.

Grasping the firm hand extended by Shizuku and solidifying her resolve to face the challenges ahead, Miura turned her face towards me.

It was clear what these two would be doing next.

 

“So, are you two going to have special training in the home economics room from now on?”

 

“Yes, sorry, but I’ll be borrowing Kanazaki-san.”

 

“…Well, she seems up for it.”

 

I wondered why Miura was asking for my permission. Perhaps Shizuku and Kirasaka wouldn’t contact each other, so if I spoke up and left, they’d have no way to coordinate their actions. As I pondered this, I prepared to leave.

Just as I touched my bag, I noticed my phone was vibrating inside. It could be a shopping request from Kaede, a whimsical message from Kirasaka, or a summons from President. Three choices floated in my mind.

Expecting a shopping request from Kaede, I opened the screen. To my surprise, instead of Kaede, there was a mysterious stamp from Kirasaka. It depicted a cat with a lack of motivation. Unable to grasp the intention behind this uninspired cat stamp, I replied with just [home economics room]. In response, another stamp from the same series arrived—a cat expressing a circle.

If it’s like this, there seems to be no need for a detour…

Time saved, it’s truly wonderful.

 

I’d like to return home quickly and take a nap in the warm kotatsu.

By the way, if there are mandarins at home, it would be the ultimate happiness.

I wonder what kind of scene is unfolding in the classroom where the girls’ confectionery training will take place later.

Shiori with an apron, sleeves rolled up, giving instructions and advice to Miura, and Kirasaka, seemingly imparting her own techniques to interfere.

Imagining the two of them in such a situation brought a small smile to my face.

…If the two of them can help each other happily, that’s good.

 

“Well then, I’ll take my leave for today.”

 

“Goodbye, be careful on your way home.”

 

While receiving a word typical of the student council from Miura, I waved my hand lightly and left the student council room.

As I walked away, Miura stared intently at my back, and in a small voice, she asked Shizuku next to her,

 

“Has he… started smiling a little?”

 

In response to that question, Shizuku nodded happily.

The academy is bustling with students actively engaged in club activities, so once outside the school building, students in various club uniforms are seen busy moving or running.

Passing them, leaving a distance that doesn’t get in the way, some underclassmen who noticed I’m a student council member greet me.

Being acknowledged is still something I’m not used to, so I involuntarily startle a bit, but even so, I return a small word of encouragement and continue walking towards the main gate.

Then, a familiar figure stands in front of the gate.

 

“…Continuing the greetings again today?”

 

“Shinra-kun, it’s like a tradition from the former president.”

 

The current student council president, Koizumi, was conducting a greeting routine for the students leaving school alone in front of the gate.

It’s been about thirty minutes since the meeting ended.

If he had told us, we could have done it together as part of the student council activity.

Thinking about such things, I stopped walking next to him.

Even now, as students pass through the gate and leave school, Koizumi, who is greeting them to be careful on their way home, looks up at the sky, which is beginning to be dyed crimson in the brief pause between the waves of students.

 

“Senpai is watching me for just about another month… I want to show a bit of growth.”

 

The confession of his feelings tinged with loneliness is audible only to me, as it is drowned out by the sounds of club activities.

Indeed, there is only about another month left for us to spend in the same school. However, showing a growth isn’t something that has to be done only during the remaining school days.

Still, as the current student council president, Koizumi and the present student council are still in their early days.

Slowly, even if the pace of his steps is different, he can move towards the same goal.

 

The person who admires him, among many others, is probably standing in front of the cooking table in the home economics room, currently pondering.

Surely, she would be happy to have someone approach her and not work alone.

 

“Don’t overdo it. There are people who are worried about you.”

 

“Thank you, but becoming a student council president like her is impossible with the limited time I have to work hard.”

 

“…”

 

When I said that, Koizumi smiled wryly and then spoke with determined eyes.

As much as the predecessor was great, the successor tends to strongly pursue that legacy. He, too, is probably chasing after the back of a senior he admired.

I could see something familiar in his figure.

It was me in the past.

There was a time when I, too, worked hard to be close to and stand shoulder to shoulder with those outstanding individuals I admired. So I know, I understand the answer he’s going to face.

 

Unlike me, Koizumi is an excellent student.

Therefore, he may not necessarily follow the same path as me.

However, he is not a charismatic genius, just an honour student who cannot go beyond the realm of being a model student.

The insurmountable wall of effort is likely to be a challenge that blocks his path.

That’s why I think…

 

“Admiration is important, but if imitation is the result, you may need to change what you’re aiming for.”

 

I, who had become indispensable to the environment I live in, unintentionally wanted to protect the place where I am now. Even though I used to dislike trouble and enjoyed a quiet life, I have certainly changed over the past year.

So, I don’t want to see him in a moment of frustration. And if possible, the future where he and the girl who admires him can spend their time happily together would be the best.

The words I muttered quietly were heard clearly by Koizumi. However, he tilted his head, not fully understanding the meaning.

 

“Huh? What do you mean?”

 

“No… just talking to myself. Just be moderate in how you work hard and manage your pace.”

 

“Thank you! Take care on your way home, Shinra-kun.”

 

If I ever seriously think that Koizumi’s path is wrong, I’ll gladly take on the role of being disliked. If that’s the best choice I can make.

So for now, let’s watch what kind of results will unfold for him and the shape of the feelings the girl creates.

 

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<BBX> : Although late, Happy New Year!
Was busy moving to dorms again, so couldn’t post for a while, sorry for that.

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