Itsuki sat next to Amane and looked at the two with a smile on his
face.
“You sound like an old bimbo.”
“No, no. You feel the same way looking at them too.”
“Yeah right.”
“But you must feel at peace watching them together, you’re a man,
after all.”
“That sentence also holds true for you.”
“I’m not denying it.”
Amane murmured, “Damn, so honest”, and peered over at Mahiru who
was still in the pool with Chitose.
“So why do you look so absent-minded, then?”
Itsuki asked Amane, leaning forward to scope out his expression.
“Ah, how should I put it? I feel like Mahiru looks cuter than before.”
“Look, no you’re starting to brag about your girlfriend too.”
“Well yeah, I think she’s laughing more often now. Before, she
wouldn’t laugh at all.”
“I didn’t really look at her before, but I heard she was pretty cold?”
“Yeah, she was more aloof and venomous. It’s nice though… she’s
smiling so happily now.”
Compared to when they first met, Mahiru smiled much more freely.
In the past, her sharp tongue made it impossible to imagine the
carefree smile and honesty she was showing now.
Although Amane believed that Mahiru’s change was because of him,
Chitose played a big part too. There are some things only said and
understood between girls.
Seeing her so happy, Amane was happy too.
“I feel the same way, Shiina definitely has changed. She used to be
difficult to approach like a puppet, but now she’s completely spoiling you.”
“Ehhh… sure, I guess.”
“Hey, that kindness of hers is so innocent and easy to understand. It’s
obvious she gave you special treatment, even before you two started
dating.”
“…Itsuki, you just said that Mahiru treated me like this for a while
now…”
It’s funny how you’re that slow.
“Really?”
Even before dating, Amane had vaguely noticed that Mahiru liked
him, but hesitated because he wasn’t completely sure.
“From when Shiina trusted you and was interested in you, she
probably changed a little bit.”
“…Yes”
“Chi was also there, I suppose. For better or worse, she was always
interested in people and easy to get close to, so she’s been helping Shiina.”
“Please control your girlfriend”
“It’s okay Chi won’t pry. Also look there, Shiina’s smiling happily.”
Amane looked in the direction Itsuki was pointing and found that
Mahiru was being hugged by Chitose, accepting the embrace despite being
shy.
From the look in his eyes, he could tell that Itsuki trusted Chitose, and
his expression was very soft. Amane also thought it was a good thing
Mahiru could have a good friend.
Although, Amane still hoped that Mahiru trusted himself the most.
Itsuki patted Amane on the back and said, “Don’t worry.” Amane
smiled wryly, then Chitose waved to this side against Mahiru, “Hey, young
men in a daze by the pool, come and play here~”
Mahiru also waved her hands lightly, as if wishing for Amane to come.
“These cute girls called us over… there’s no helping it.”
Itsuki descended from the edge of the pool, and the water soaked up to
his waist. Seeing him walking toward the two with a grin, Amane also
laughed and walked in the direction of Mahiru and the others.
✧₊✦₊✧
“Huh, enough playing, enough playing~”
Although they were high school students, they were a little tired after
playing for a few hours, so the four of them sat on the benches to rest.
Playing some beach volleyball, and going on some water slides as per
Chitose’s request, everything should’ve been very exciting for Mahiru.
Mahiru was sitting next to Amane feeling refreshed, but she may have
been a little tired since she was leaning on Amane’s body lightly.
“I’m so happy. I haven’t had this fun in a long time.”
“Well, I haven’t done such a big exercise for a long time either.”
“Back at the sports festival, you didn’t make any extra appearances,
Amane. You really had a good exercise here.”
Although Amane isn’t terrible at sports, he’s not great at them either.
He wasn’t used to exercising his whole body as he does now. He would take
physical education class seriously, but the activities wouldn’t be as
refreshing in class as he would be doing it himself.
“I’ve been swimming in earnest since the middle of the week.”
“This really is a great place to swim… It’s good to come here once in a
while, isn’t it”
“When you swam, Mahirun had been watching you, Amane.”
“Huh, yes, I’m sorry Mahiru”
Since Mahiru and Chitose were happily playing together, Amane also
went to enjoy a simple swim but perhaps that made Mahiru wait for him.
However, Mahiru shook her head repeatedly.
“No, that’s not what I meant… It was really good.”
Amane thought for a little bit and understood what was “really good.”
It seemed she was envious of Amane who was able to swim properly.
However, Amane also mentioned in front of Chitose and Itsuki that
Mahiru couldn’t swim, so he just smiled bitterly and patted Mahiru’s head.
If there’s still a chance, it might be good to go for some swimming
practice next time.
“Next time we have a chance, let’s come to the pool again.”
“Yes.”
“Well, what’s this~? Did you say you want to see Mahirun’s black
bikini?”
“Are you stupid? I don’t want it to be seen by anyone else.”
“If you’re alone, you’ll want to see it though, obviously.”
“That’s… the privilege of a boyfriend, right?”
To show Mahiru’s black bikini off to others, was something Amane
didn’t even want to think about. Even now, Mahiru was covered in Amane’s
sun guard, and Amane even wanted her to wear shorts for swimming.
“Did you hear that, won’t you show it to your boyfriend?”
“Well, it can be discussed.”
Amane turned to Mahiru and smiled slightly, and stroked her head
again.
✧₊✦₊✧
After leaving the swimming facility together, the four of them then
went to a family restaurant.
It wasn’t 6 o’clock yet so it might be early for dinner, but swimming
and playing took a lot of energy, so Amane was hungry. Perhaps the timing
was just right for them.
Mahiru didn’t have an opportunity to go to a family restaurant before,
so she seemed a little excited. Her look was so cute that Amane couldn’t
help but laugh, but the smile quickly closed because he was lightly beaten
from an angle that Chitose and others couldn’t see.
“By the way during summer vacation, Mahirun is going to visit
Amane’s hometown, right?”
Chitose asked while cutting the hamburg steak.
To arrange a schedule for hanging out with Chitose, Mahiru should’ve
told her that she was going to Amane’s hometown, but Chitose still smirked
anyway.
“It feels like Mahiru is going to introduce herself to your parents.”
“Too late, Mahiru has already met my parents.”
“That’s it~ …She’s like a wife who followed her husband back to his
hometown.”
“Yes yes, whatever you say.”
Although Amane thought, ‘What are you even talking about, let alone
being married, we’re not even engaged’, but generally speaking, high
school couples don’t usually go to see each other’s parents in the first place,
so Amane couldn’t completely deny it.
Putting Chitose’s words aside, Amane ate the omelet from the
Japanese-style set meal. Chitose showed regret because she wasn’t able to
tease him.
Ignoring Chitose, Amane chewed on his omelet but felt that something
was lacking. Unlike Mahiru’s cooking, the omelet here just tasted ordinary.
“Sure enough, Mahiru’s cooking is the best.” After Amane muttered
that, he glanced at Mahiru and found that she was a little bit red.
Perhaps the mentioning of ‘wife’ made her shy.
“So Shiina’s going to Amane’s hometown… then I’m guessing
Amane’s mother’s super happy about it?”
“Does Akazawa know Shihoko-san?”
“No, it’s just from what I’ve heard… I understood Amane’s analogy.”
“Because my mom has a similar personality… you’d feel a sense of
familiarity with her, right Chi?”
Itsuki simply listened to Amane’s words, and immediately judged that
Shihoko felt like Chitose. If Chitose met Shihoko, they’d definitely become
close.
“What are you trying to say?”
“Well, I’m just saying Chi is very cute”
Itsuki fooled around and took the chance to praise her, Chitose
responded with “Itsuki, you~” with a satisfied look.
“Oh right, Amane, after deciding the day to go home, tell me in
advance. I want to play with Mahirun before you leave.”
“Okay, we won’t leave before August at least. You can play with her
before then… Also, do your summer homework too.”
“How do I say this, you sound just like my mother~”
“It’s totally not like last year you clamored, ‘I can’t finish my
homework~!’…”
Chitose left her homework until the end and had to do it all at once.
Last year, she only started it in a panic at the end of the break.
Amane finished his ahead of time, and then began to self-study and
review; Itsuki was the type to do it steadily bit-by-bit. As a result, these two
people went to help Chitose with homework.
This year, Amane had already finished, and the same was true for
Mahiru, so the two would study together afterward.
“After all, I just don’t want to do it… By the way, this year I can be
taught by the angel.”
“I’m okay with teaching you, but if you call me an angel, I won’t
agree.”
“Oh, so strict, but I like the cold Mahirun too.”
As Mahiru and Chitose also had a relaxed conversation, Amane felt
relieved and ate before his food went cold.
“Mahiru, I want to eat an omelet tomorrow.”
After Amane whispered to Mahiru next to him, Mahiru’s eyes moved
to the tray in front of Amane.
“Aren’t you eating it right now?”
“This isn’t good. I always feel that normal food isn’t good enough
now. Mahiru’s food is the best.”
“Fufu, I really can’t help it then. I’ll wake you up and make breakfast.”
“Um…”
It’s summer vacation, and Amane wouldn’t get up early like usual. It
would be nice to have Mahiru wake him up.
Although Amane knew that Mahiru’s face wasn’t good for his heart
right after waking up, she was undoubtedly the best alarm clock.
Amane looked forward to tomorrow’s breakfast, excitedly. Itsuki
looked at him dumbfounded.
“Already a cohabiting couple…”
“Shut it”
Amane didn’t mention that they ‘just half-lived together’, and instead
quietly drank his miso soup, now a little cold.
“Are all the doors and windows locked?”
“You saw me lock them, right?”
In the corridor near the door of the house, Amane heard Mahiru
remind him, and smiled softly.
Normally, Mahiru didn’t nag him this much. This time, it was probably
because they wouldn’t be home for a while, so she was worried.
Starting today, they would be going back to Amane’s hometown for
two weeks, and Mahiru was being extra careful in keeping everything safe.
“I saw you, but I’ll still ask just in case.”
“Okay. You didn’t forget to bring anything, right?”
“No. I already sent the necessary luggage and checked the things I’m
bringing by hand this morning. My doors and windows are locked, and I’ve
carefully checked everything in Amane-kun’s house, from the trash can to
the refrigerator. Please rest assured.”
“Thank you.”
After all, it wasn’t easy taking enough luggage to last two weeks. For
the stuff being delivered, they both used express delivery, and there were no
oversights.
Amane thanked her for her diligence with these small details while
taking Mahiru’s bag, and then held her hand.
After blinking, Mahiru softly said, “I like Amane-kun’s place”, and
squeezed his hand.
✧₊✦₊✧
It took more than an hour via the Shinkansen to get to Amane’s
hometown.
Amane sat in a reserved seat and happily chatted with Mahiru while
enjoying the scenery. With that, it didn’t feel like a long time passed before
the Shinkansen reached its destination.
The scenery of the station - although it had only been a year since
Amane saw it - made him feel incredibly nostalgic. He took Mahiru’s hand
once again and led her to the scheduled meeting area.
“So this is Amane-kun’s hometown”
“Yeah, but we still need to drive a little more to get home.”
The Shinkansen only stopped at the large stations, so they had to get
off here. There was still some distance left to travel.
This time Shihoko, who was free, came to greet them at the station, so
Amane accepted her kindness although there was also the simple reason
that Shihoko wanted to see Mahiru.
Amane walked towards the big pillar next to the ticket booth and saw
his mother.
He felt that holding hands in front of his mother would still be
embarrassing, so Amane let go. However, there was a slight dissatisfaction
oozing from Mahiru, so Amane hurriedly patted her back.
“I haven’t told them we’re dating yet, please forgive me this time.”
It had become a habit for the two to hold hands, and they’d sometimes
even do it unconsciously. Amane wanted to pay attention to this during their
trip.
Mahiru was a little reluctant, but after seeing Shihoko’s figure she
seemed to understand and returned to her usual expression.
Shihoko seemed to have noticed the two of them and walked there
with a pleasant smile.
“Long time no see…”
“Oh ho, welcome Mahiru! You’re really here!”
As Amame expected, the first thing his own mother did was say hello
to Mahiru.
Although she was somewhat surprised, Mahiru lowered her head with
a gentle smile.
“Thank you for your invitation. It’s a rare family reunion, and to let me
intrude...”
“It’s okay, it’s because I want to see Mahiru-chan! The thing is, I also
wanted to see you during spring break, but I couldn’t arrange a time… ah,
what’s wrong, Amane?”
“Don’t you have a few words for your son?”
“Oh oh, welcome home, thank you for bringing Mahiru-chan here.”
“Yes yes.”
Amane knew that was a joke, and he wasn’t actually angry. Perhaps
Shihoko could sense a little discomfort and said, “Of course I’m happy to
see you back, Amane.” and poked him.
Amane brushed away Shihoko’s hand and looked around.
They knew Shihoko would come to pick them up, but it was somewhat
surprising that his dad wasn’t there. Shuuto also should’ve taken leave
today, and Amane thought both of his parents would come.
“Where’s dad?”
“Shuuto’s cooking at home right now.”
“No wonder…”
That made more sense.
Shuuto liked to cook and entertain, so he would make various
preparations at home.
“Mahiru, my dad’s food is delicious.”
Amane informed Mahiru in this way, without saying ‘It’s not as good
as yours though’. Then, Mahiru also showed a faint smile.
“Then, I’m looking forward to it.”
“Yes, please look forward to the taste of our home.”
“It’s not even made by you, and you still say that… although Dad’s
cooking does tastes better.”
“That sentence says a lot, you know~”
Shihoko pouted, puffing up her face. However, it was a fact that
Shuuto’s cooking skills were better.
Shihoko cooked on weekdays, while Shuuto did them on the
weekends. Although the former had more experience, Shuuto’s still tasted
better.
It wasn’t that Shihoko’s dishes were bad, just that Amane preferred
Shuuto’s style. Of course, Amane thanked both of them when the time
came.
“Forget it. Let’s just go home first, it’s almost noon. The car’s over
here, come on.”
Shihoko beckoned them and said, “it doesn’t make too much sense to
talk much at the station,” and started walking to the exit, while Amane
glanced at Mahiru.
“Then, let’s go.”
“Mm.”
After Mahiru nodded slightly, Amane gently held her wrist.
Although he would not interlock fingers in front of Shihoko, they
could at least say that it was to prevent getting lost like this.
Mahiru’s eyes widened, then showed a shy smile, moving closer to
Amane. Amane was also a little ashamed and walked a little slower behind
Shihoko.
✧₊✦₊✧
It took about half an hour by car to get home, but to Amane, it felt like
a total of 2 hours.
In front of Amane was a large house. It was this big because there was
a study room, a spacious kitchen, and vacant bedrooms. Mahiru seemed to
think it was bigger than it actually was, her eyes opened wide.
“So big…”
“Oh thank you, our house is quite big. In fact, I hoped to have a
daughter that’d use more rooms, but it didn’t work out… I guess Mahiru
fills that role?”
“Uh, t-that’s…”
“Mom, don’t make fun of Mahiru. She’s very embarrassed right?”
“Oh ho?”
Shihoko smiled brightly but also smirked at Mahiru’s reaction.
Mahiru lowered her head shyly, making Shihoko even happier.
“Okay, it’s hot out, so go in quickly.”
“Yeah yeah…”
“Until next time~”
Shihoko’s smile showed no sign of stopping, so Amane gave up and
pushed Shihoko’s back; the latter simply kept on smiling and unlocked the
front door.
Perhaps because of their footsteps, it seemed Shuuto noticed that they
were back.
“Welcome back”
After entering the house, as expected Shuuto was waiting.
“I’m back, and I also brought Mahiru-chan~”
“It’s been a while, Shiina-san.”
“Yes.”
Mahiru and Shuuto hadn’t seen each other in more than half a year, so
she was still a little nervous. Shihoko was frank and friendly towards
Mahiru - ah no, she was pressing forward every step of the way, so there
may not be a sense of distance between them, but Mahiru still felt
unfamiliar with Shuuto.
Shuuto noticed that Mahiru looked a little stiff and showed an
approachable smile.
“You don’t have to be so restrained with an uncle like me.”
“No, that’s not it…”
“The problem is that Dad doesn’t look like an uncle.”
“Way to butter up your dad.”
Amane’s father did have an appearance that didn’t suit his age.
He looked too young for someone who was almost 40 years old. It was
safe to say that no one could immediately guess his age.
“Amane, I haven’t seen you in a while either. You look better.”
“It’s only been half a year, are there really any changes?”
“Yeah. You’re more like a man, looking confident and dressing well.”
Since he was going to be with Mahiru, Amane wore some nice outdoor
clothes. He also lacked self-confidence before, which was also a change
Shuuto noticed.
Being seen straight through made Amane a little embarrassed, and
Shuuto showed a small smile.
“Then Shihoko, give them a house tour, I’ll go prepare the food.”
“Okay, come on in then. The place isn’t too big, so I hope you can live
comfortably.”
“N-no… I’m the bother here...”
Mahiru bowed her head and took off her shoes. Amane also changed to
his indoor slippers.
Amane knew his own home well and didn’t need a tour, but to monitor
whether Shihoko would say anything unnecessary, he planned to follow
them.
After seeing Shuuto go back into the kitchen, Shihoko waved towards
the stairs and said, “Over here~”
The second floor was basically the bedrooms and guest rooms.
Shihoko was leading them there.
Amane also wanted to go to his room and open the luggage they send,
but he remembered the location of the guest room and showed an
indescribable expression.
(If I remember correctly, there’s only one room that isn’t being used as
a storage room…)
The two rooms, Amane’s and the guest room, were connected by a
balcony. It was originally reserved for the second child, and although that
child wasn’t born, the room was neatly decorated and could be lived in.
Amane’s cousins often used this room when they came over during
long vacations, although that didn’t happen nearly as much these days.
Although Amane didn’t say anything, he felt uncomfortable when he
thought about whether it would be okay to let someone of the opposite sex
live in a connected room.
“Then Mahiru-chan, you can use this room.”
As expected, Shihoko led them to the room next to Amane’s, which
garnered a sigh from him.
“Thank you for preparing this room for me.”
“No need to thank me for such a thing. The bathroom is over there,
and next door is Amane’s room. The balcony is connected.”
Hearing the words ‘the balcony is connected’, Mahiru blinked in
surprise.
“Don’t worry, you can lock both sides.”
“I-I’m not worried about that…”
“You should though…”
“Heheh, how innocent. Now, I’m going to help Shuuto prepare lunch,
so you two can get your luggage.”
“Alright, thanks.”
“No problem, see you later.”
Shihoko smiled and walked down the stairs. After confirming that she
was gone, Amane sighed heavily.
“Sorry, this room was the only one available.”
“No it’s okay, I’m fine.”
“That’s not the point. Mom also doesn’t know yet… really.”
“It’s okay… and the balcony is connected, so we can watch the stars
together.”
Seeing Mahiru’s shy smile, Amane thought “She’s not worried about
night-time attacks at all”, and because she hoped to spend the night
together, joy gradually came to his heart.
“…Well, we’ll see if it’s convenient. Okay, let’s go and open our
luggage first.”
“Mm.”
Amane wasn’t sure whether Mahiru noticed his own shyness, as she
just smiled happily and walked into her new room.
By now, Amane once again realized that they would live together in
the same space for two weeks. He covered his face with his hands and
stepped into his own room, his face burning red.
✧₊✦₊✧
To give Mahiru a warm welcome, lunch was served by Shuuto.
Like Mahiru, Shuuto could cook a lot of things. By Shihoko’s request,
today’s staple food was Spanish rice.
Laid out across the table was not only a large pot of Spanish rice but
also a thick soup and salad, alongside plenty of seafood.
Everything was delicious, and Mahiru was very happy. It seemed she
also thought Shuuto’s cooking skills were excellent.
“My son isn’t a bother, right?”
After resting for a little after lunch, Shuuto asked Mahiru.
Shihoko was responsible for cleaning up after the meal, so she wasn’t
present. The sound of cleaning let them know of Shihoko’s presence in the
kitchen.
When Mahiru heard Shuuto’s question, she blinked, and shook her
head in denial.”
“N-no… no trouble at all.”
“You always have to take care of me.”
“…I have a great time doing that though. I never felt that being with
Amane-kun was troublesome.”
“Huh.”
Hearing Mahiru smoothly finish speaking, Amane had nothing to say.
“Don’t be shy, Amane. Do thank her properly.”
“I always thank her.”
“Oh, I know.”
Mahiru also seemed to see that Amane was hiding his shyness, and
laughed like a silver bell.
Her smile made Amane falter, and his lips twitched. Mahiru laughed
again as a result, leaving Amane helpless.
“You’ll remember this later…”
Amane looked at Mahiru, but she was still smiling. His sentence
seemed to have no effect.
Amane couldn’t bear it and turned his head away, but this time Shuuto
laughed.
“Amane really isn’t honest, although that’s the cute part about him.”
“Speaking of cute men, do you look down on them?”
“Amane-kun is really cute.”
“Mahiru, we’ll have a good chat afterward.”
“Then, we can talk about it later then…”
When Mahiru said this with a smile, Amane fell speechless again.
Mahiru was very difficult to deal with today. Amane thought that Mahiru
was just nervous, but she seemed to be getting along just fine.
Although there was also the chance that Mahiru was just used to
talking with Amane.
Shuuto watched the two’s conversation with interest, then blinked
vigorously as if thinking of something.
“Ah, by the way, Shiina-san, if it’s convenient, do you want to go
shopping together? Shihoko has something for me to buy.”
“Why are you planning to take her out?”
Because Mahiru was being stolen from him he questioned in
dissatisfaction, while Shuuto smiled just like before.
“I can’t have some fun walking around as Shihoko did?”
“That’s not…”
“Just watch the house for a bit.”
“Why!?”
“Well, I want to talk a bit about the past, and you’ll stop me.”
“Well, you’re probably gonna say something bad…”
“Yep.”
Shuuto nodded happily and ignoring the speechless Amane, he then
looked at Mahiru.
“Would you like to go shopping with me?”
“Well, as long as you don’t mind.”
“Then come along. Also, we can choose a gift for Shihoko together.”
Shuuto said with a smile after getting permission. For this, Mahiru was
puzzled.
“A gift? Is there an anniversary…?”
“Dad often gives mom gifts, even if nothing happens. Don’t worry
about it.”
Shuuto is very good to women and very diligent, especially to his
beloved wife Shihoko. With that, even if there’s nothing major, he would
give gifts without too much trouble.
According to Shuuto, this was a show of gratitude, a proof of love, and
also because he wanted to see Shihoko happy. When Amane was still here,
he often accompanied him to buy such gifts.
This time, Shuuto invited Mahiru to get advice from a female
perspective, although the main purpose would be to talk about Amane’s
history.
“…Amane-kun feels like Shuuto-san.”
“I don’t do that much.”
“When you see dolls or cute little pendants, doesn’t Amane-kun buy
them for me?”
Amane would often subconsciously buy things that Mahiru would like
and thought were suitable for her, but that was because he likes to do it, and
also as a thank you for taking care of him all the time.
To say that he was like Shuuto, while somewhat true, Amane felt that
he didn’t do it as often.
“Well, after all, Mahiru takes care of me all the time.”
After Amane answered with an excuse-like voice, Mahiru laughed.
Her voice seemed helpless, but at the same time very happy and
mischievous.
Shuuto also looked at him with satisfaction. Amane, as if unable to
stay any longer, stood up and fled to Shihoko in the name of helping her
clean up.
“Oh Amane, weren’t you talking with Mahiru-chan?”
“Well, Dad’s going to take Mahiru out to buy things.”
Amane glanced at the living room. The two were smiling and
preparing to leave.
The reason they moved so fast was probably that Shuuto noticed that
Amane being a little awkward and planned to give him some time to cool
off. His father was hyper-aware of the subtle feelings in people’s hearts, and
Amane occasionally felt scared.
“Ah, so they’re going shopping. I guess Shuuto has something to ask
Mahiru, right?”
“What’s he going to ask…”
“Probably the usual interrogation? I don’t know everything about
Shuuto.”
Shihoko handed Amane a special pot that had been washed and dried,
and Amane obediently went and put the pot back in the kitchen cabinet.
At this time, Mahiru and Shuuto had already left the living room.
Amane looked at the door they walked out with a little bit of worry, then
returned to Shihoko who was washing the dishes, dried them, and put them
back on the shelf.
Because Amane often helped Mahiru with the clean-up, he was
familiar with these tasks, but Shihoko’s eyes widened when she saw
Amane’s actions.
“Amane’s movements are also very proficient.”
“Thank you for the compliment”
“It looks like you don’t rely on Mahiru for everything, I’m relieved.”
“Mom, what kind of scumbag do you think I am…”
In any case, Amane wasn’t so shameless as to make Mahiru do
everything herself.
If he did, Amane would feel too guilty.
She had already worked hard to cook, and Amane should do
something for her in return.
“Why did you even mention that?” Amane narrowed his eyes to look
at Shihoko. Shihoko kept that look of admiration and shouted, “…Say
Amane.”
“What’s wrong?”
“How far have you gone with Mahiru-chan?”
“Pfft-”
Amane didn’t expect such a question to arise now, and couldn’t help
but be surprised. Shihoko casually finished cleaning the dishes.
Although Amane reflexively took the plate and dried the water with a
rag, he couldn’t hide his surprise, his brows furrowing.
“Why are you surprised? The atmosphere between you two is so
obvious, did you seriously try to hide that?”
With that said, Amane was shut down.
Now, the atmosphere between Amane and Mahiru was different from
that of their New Year’s visit. This, of course, was because of their
relationship, but Amane originally intended to hide it from his parents.
In the end, they had been seen through.
“…Can’t we?”
“Of course? I want her to be a daughter, so she’s very welcome.”
“…Mm”
“Looking at the kind of loving eyes and atmosphere you two had, I
thought you’d gone all the way.”
“How could that be possible!”
Amane raised his eyebrows because of this guess, but Shihoko showed
no sign of repentance.
“…Mom, don’t tell Mahiru about this kind of thing.”
“That’s not going to be said. But I do want a daughter, and I’ll look
forward to it.”
For physical reasons, Shihoko could no longer have children. Amane
understood how she wanted a daughter, so he couldn’t blame her more,
simply puffing up his mouth.
“…Don’t put pressure on Mahiru.”
“I know, so Amane has to keep her.”
“Do you think I’ll let go of someone like her, Mom?”
In the past, Amane felt that as long as Mahiru could be happy, it didn’t
matter if the other person wasn’t him, and he was willing to leave her. But
now Amane couldn’t say such things anymore.
It wasn’t wrong to say he was stingy, but it could also be said that the
idea of him wanting to cherish Mahiru and not let her go was much
stronger. Amane really did hope that Mahiru could be happy, and hoped that
she would like him to the point where she wouldn’t look at other men.
Therefore, Amane didn’t intend to give Mahiru a chance to divert her
attention from him.
Hearing Amane’s firm assertion, Shihoko was stunned for a moment
and then giggled happily.
“Fufu, in areas like this, Amane is also very similar to Shuuto. Shuuto
loves me very much too.”
“I didn’t inherit my father’s talent for attracting everyone.”
“Really now. Why don’t I ask Mahiru-chan?”
“Hey, stop.”
If she went to talk to Mahiru, she might reveal some shameful tidbits,
so Amane tried his best to stop it.
Amane opened his eyes and asked Shihoko to stop, but it seemed to
have no effect. Shihoko happily said in a rather leisurely tone, “I can’t wait
for Mahiru-chan to come home,” which made Amane’s brows furrow
deeper.
A few hours after Mahiru and Shuuto went out, as Shihoko began to
prepare dinner the two of them came back.
Because he’d definitely be teased by his dad, Amane went to unpack
his luggage into his room, and then spent some time on his school
textbooks. At this time Mahiru, who had just returned home, came to see
him.
Almost all his furniture had been moved to Amane’s current
apartment, so there was almost nothing in this room, and since Shihoko
would clean it regularly it didn’t look shameful. Therefore, Amane let her in
but Mahiru still seemed a little doubtful.
Amane didn’t know if it was because they were alone, because of his
room, or because of her outing with Shuuto, but Mahiru seemed to be
restless. Amane put a cushion on the floor and let her sit down.
“Welcome back, Mahiru. Are you tired?”
Amane went to the kitchen to get two servings of barley tea and asked
her while setting the tea down on his folding table. Mahiru blinked a few
times remembering something, before relaxing her expression.
“Yeah. I’ve been sitting down a lot while we traveled, so I wanted to
go outside and move my legs.”
“Really… So, since you’re so flustered, did you hear something from
my dad?”
Mahiru looked away from him, inadvertently admitting it. Amane
sighed.
Amane didn’t think Mahiru was in the wrong, but he had to talk with
Shuuto. However, even if Amane complained, Shuuto would just avoid
talking about it or start teasing him instead, so Amane couldn’t really do
anything.
“Hey, my dad… what did he say?”
“Nothing big, he asked me how Amane-kun is doing now, and then
told me how cute Amane-kun was when he was a child.”
“…What did you hear?”
Amane couldn’t figure out anything interesting he did when he was a
kid, and he didn’t even know if there were any things that would be bad to
say.
It’s just that, since the Shuuto specifically told Mahiru, it must have
happened to Amane. From a parent’s point of view, it was probably a cute
joke, but in Amane’s mind it could be something extremely embarrassing,
so he couldn’t laugh it off if his parents shared his childhood failures.
“Tell me in more detail.” Amane narrowed his eyes to stare at Mahiru,
and then he drew away from his sight blatantly.
“Um, that’s… right?”
“Why aren’t you facing me?”
“At least I know that you were very cute, Amane-kun.”
Hearing her dodge his question, Amane sighed deliberately.
“W-what?”
“Disobedient kids who won’t speak shall be punished.”
Amane pulled Mahiru beside him and made her sit between both of his
legs. After he picked her up from behind, he touch the chance to poke
Mahiru’s belly.
Mahiru seemed surprised at it too, adjusting her head while looking up
at Amane.
“Umm, Amane-kun?”
“Mahiru, I remember you’re pretty ticklish right?”
“…P-please wait. If you have something to say-”
“If you spilled the beans first, I wouldn’t have to do this either.”
Beneath her clothes, Amane slowly traced Mahiru’s flanks, and
Mahiru’s body shuddered visibly.
While feeling up her slim body devoid of excess fat, Amane tenderly
stroked her smooth curved waist with his fingers. Just with this, Mahiru
began to breathe out lightly.
As Mahiru’s reaction was so good, Amane couldn’t help but tickle her
more with his fingers, slowly irritating her skin.
Mahiru twisted her body in his arms, giving Amane some naughty
thoughts, but he couldn’t just stop now.
“Huh, w-wait… huh, Amane-kun...”
“By the way Mahiru, aren’t you a little too ticklish?”
Amane started very lightly, but Mahiru seemed to be very sensitive.
Her knees were shaking and she was panting lightly.
He was stunned at seeing her act so cutely and adored her
stubbornness.
Amane was careful to avoid areas that would test his sanity, and slowly
scratched Mahiru. Perhaps she couldn’t bear it anymore, and she suddenly
turned herself to face Amane.
Mahiru’s face was slightly red, and her eyes moist from his antics.
When she glared back at him, Amane felt his heartbeat running wild.
“A-Amane-kun, you went too far, baka.”
“If you confessed what he said, this wouldn’t have happened.”
“H-he didn’t say much. Shuuto-san only told me about you as a kid,
about how you cried after crashing into a telephone pole on your bicycle.
And apparently, on Mother’s Day, you once clung to your mom and said ‘I
love mama the most! I want to change and be as handsome as my dad!’ and
used wax to give yourself a mohawk.”
“How could he leak those!?”
While Shuuto leaked those embarrassing stories, Amane himself didn’t
even remember them. Once Mahiru shared them, he couldn’t help but
instinctively hide his face from her.
Amane already knew that Shuuto would talk about his childhood, but
he wasn’t expecting him to only talk about the embarrassing bits. Amane
wanted to ask what he did to deserve this.
In the eyes of parents, they may be funny topics, but in Amane’s
perspective, it was just black history.
“I-I think it’s cute?”
“You’re definitely not praising me. Just forget about it, and fast.”
“…because you ticked me, I won’t forget them.”
Amane felt that even if he didn’t tickle her, Mahiru would still
remember. However, she sounded sulky so Amane reflected on his actions,
and gently put his hands around Mahiru’s back.
“Okay, I’m sorry”
“…Next time you tickle me, I’ll relay what Shuuto-san told me again.”
“Stop planning to attack me mentally… I see. I’m sorry.”
Amane picked up and caressed Mahiru to calm her down, she stayed in
Amane’s arms and buried her face deep into his shoulders.
✧₊✦₊✧
“Mahiru-chan, you should take a bath first.”
After they had dinner together, it was almost time to have a bath.
Mahiru sat next to Amane watching TV, and Shihoko spoke up.
“I could also do it later…”
“You’re our guest, so don’t worry. If you don’t want to bathe alone,
you can ask Amane to join you.”
“What nonsense are you spitting now?”
Shihoko said so with a smile, and Amane naturally frowned.
Lending Amane to Mahiru right now meant having them bathe
together, and Amane was sure that she’d refuse. She already had a hard time
with her swimsuit just a while ago, so she definitely wouldn’t consider
being naked.
Sure enough, Mahiru was blushing intensely.
She glanced towards Amane, then blushed even more. She likely got
even more embarrassed after imagining his body.
Amane wasn’t any different; he also would be ashamed if he kept on
thinking about it.
“We’d have to be naked…, so it’s…, it’s really too…”
“Oh, do you want me to prepare more towels?”
“Um…, that’s not it”
“Oh, you really don’t need to be shy? Shuuto-san and I often wash
together.”
“U-um, that’s…”
“Mahiru, don’t take her too seriously. Mom and Dad do often take a
bath together, but we don’t have to.”
Shihoko’s proposal was just to tease them.
Those two were always lovey-dovey. When going out together, they’d
never forget to hold hands and they’d always smile at each other; when they
sleep, they’d always sleep together in the same bed.
From all angles, the two were deep in love with each other. Although a
little embarrassing from the perspective of their son, they were a famous
sweetheart couple around this area.
They nearly always bathed together, saying that it was necessary to
complete their bond as husband and wife. Therefore, her proposal might not
have just been teasing, but more like a suggestion for a closer relationship
between Amane and Mahiru.
(Anyway, she’s being too much of a busybody)
If they were to bathe together, Amane might end up staining the
bathwater red, which made things difficult.
“Ara, young man is this all right?”
“What’s alright? How can I do that back in my hometown.”
“It sounds like the other side here isn’t completely against it.”
“…Then we shall negotiate with Mahiru.”
‘Negotiate’ sure was a convenient word. A few days back, Amane
remembered Mahiru use that line herself back at the pool.
Mahiru’s eyes wandered around shyly, but it could be that she just
didn’t want to bathe with Amane, so she could only try to shake off
Shihoko’s proposal.
In all honesty, as a teenager, Amane knew that both of them would die
of shame but for different reasons. However he did admire the act itself,
although he probably wouldn’t go ahead with it just yet.
Shuuto listened to their conversation with a smile, and once he saw
Amane’s cramped face, a wry smile appeared between his lips.
“Shihoko, don’t tease them too much.”
“Okayy~”
Shihoko soon became calm as soon as Shuuto stepped in. Amane was
grateful as always for his father.
“Okay, just leave my mom alone and go bathe.”
“Okay okay. Then, I’ll be going to wash now.”
“Amane’s being really boring. Then off you go, Mahiru-chan”
In order to keep Shihoko under control, Amane sent Mahiru away and
returned to the living room.
Amane’s face suddenly became tired, and Shuuto smiled peacefully.
Mahiru finished bathing, so it was now Amane’s turn.
This order was simply because his parents wanted to take their time
bathing together, so Amane quickly went off to wash.
After passing Mahiru who had just taken a bath, his heart started
beating uncontrollably, and he moved himself to bathe as fast as possible.
Amane wasn’t able to soak for very long. He thought about how he
was currently soaking in Mahiru’s bathwater - and nearly passed out.
After Amane finished his parents went to bathe, so he and Mahiru
were the only ones in the living room.
“Your parents, t-they’re so affectionate.”
After seeing Shuuto head for the bathroom while holding his
Shihoko’s waist, Mahiru couldn’t help but whisper.
“Since I was little they’ve been like that. I’m used to it.”
“…I think you’re really good at enduring.”
“Thank you, but sometimes it does give me a heartache.”
“Fufu.”
Amane put his hands on his chest and stuck his tongue out. Mahiru
covered her mouth and giggled softly.
“…Just to make sure, are you having a good time here? You aren’t
tired or anything?”
“No problem. Both of them treat me very well… more like their real
daughter...”
“Yeah, probably because my parents wanted a daughter. Since I
brought such a cute girl with me, they’ll definitely spoil you.
“Y-yes”
His parents very happily accepted Mahiru.
Of course, Mahiru’s good nature was the most important reason for
this. Because she was Mahiru, Shihoko appreciated her and cared a lot
about her.
Maybe Mahiru was shy after she heard Amane call her cute, and a
blush began to bloom across her face.
“After I grew up, my parents always wanted someone to spoil, so, it
doesn’t matter if you go to act like a baby to my parents. If there is
something you want, you can always look for them?”
If Mahiru wanted something, then his parents - especially Shihoko -
would do their best to make it happen.
“It’s okay if I’m not doted on but…”
“But what?”
“I kind of want to go out with everyone…”
Mahiru added, “because I admire families who go out together” her
voice was small and faint, nearly shadowed by the sound of them breathing.
After hearing that, Amane instantly felt his chest tighten.
Mahiru didn’t get along well with her family. For her, the contact she
had with Shihoko and Shuuto was already stronger than she ever had with
her real family.
Amane thought about how good it would be for them to form a
familial bond, but this matter couldn’t be decided by only Amane, so he
decided not to say so just yet.
“Is that so? I’ll go tell my mom, but if you don’t have a place you want
to go, I might let my mother decide on something she likes.”
Amane didn’t mention this, but he now decided to spend time with
Mahiru as a family.
“We’ll probably end up going to entertainment facilities or shopping
malls. If there’s somewhere you want to go you’ll have to tell her
beforehand, or else she’ll drag us somewhere strange”
“Hehe, as long as I am with Amane-kun, I’ll follow you anywhere.”
“If you tell her that, mom will definitely take us to some weird
place…”
Hearing Amane’s words, Mahiru laughed happily. Relieved, Amane
listed the strange places he’d been taken to, which made Mahiru laugh even
more.
Perhaps his fatigue from travel caught up, or because of his parents’
deeds, Amane woke up later than usual. To be specific, it was already an
hour before noon.
Amane got up and picked up the blanket that fell to the ground without
him realizing, and yawned as he folded it neatly.
(…We didn’t make any plans for today)
Although Mahiru asked the four of us to go out together, Amane
hadn’t told his parents about it yet. For a few days after returning, he
planned to rest at home.
Therefore even if he woke up so late, it wasn’t a problem. However,
even though it was summer vacation, he thought he was being a little lazy.
Amane slowly stood up and got himself changed before going to the
living room. Of course, Mahiru was already in the living room, and she
gathered around the table with Shihoko and Shuuto.
Mahiru’s eyes were glued to some kind of thick book, her eyes were a
bit bright.
“Good morning. What are you looking at?”
“Ah, good morning”
Mahiru’s expression was free of fatigue. After greeting him, she
returned her gaze to the book.
Amane pondered what it could be and looked over her, only to then
cover his face.
“…Say, what’s up with you looking at my photo album while I’m not
around…”
Amane whispered when he saw a familiar-looking child engulfed in
dirt.
His parents were one to always take pictures and cherish past
memories very much, it was to no one’s surprise that they had an album.
The only problem was that they showed it to Mahiru.
Showcased was a small Amane, alongside other photos in the opened
album that made him look rather innocent, cute, and reckless.
Looking at pictures of a small Amane muddy and about to cry, Mahiru
sat next to Shihoko, who was proudly showing off their photo album.
“Hey, did you also want to see your old cute photos? You should’ve
asked earlier.”
“I didn’t say that, I meant you shouldn’t just show her without asking.”
“…Can’t I?”
“It’s not that you can’t, it’s just that I’m embarrassed.”
“These are pretty cute”
“It’s not a compliment when you call boys cute.”
It’s okay if he was handsome, but cuteness definitely wasn’t praise for
a man.
He knew that she was calling him cute as a child, but he wasn’t happy
about it.
He turned his head away, the other three laughing at him.
“Isn’t it fine? Mahiru seems fascinated by looking at small Amane,
isn’t she?”
“She’s definitely just holding back her laughter.”
“Well, maybe…”
“Shiina-san really likes you, Amane. As a parent, I’m glad to see such
a reliable person by your side.”
In the corner of his vision, Mahiru lowered her gaze and curled up
after hearing Shuuto’s words.
Mahiru probably felt embarrassed about being praised. However,
Amane’s felt even more embarrassed since his dark history was being laid
bare.
Amane plopped down on the sofa expressing his dissatisfaction, and
his parents laughed at him.
“Don’t be so awkward. Isn’t there a good girl right next to you who’ll
accept you no matter what?”
“…That’s true.”
“However, Amane didn’t tell us about it so we’re a little sad.”
“Wha-”
Shuuto also seemed to know that Amane and Mahiru had started
dating. Amane didn’t know if he heard about it indirectly from Shihoko, or
if Mahiru told him directly.
“…Wouldn’t it be shameful to report every little thing?”
“Even if that’s the case, it’s better to come out and it. Although already
figured it out before.”
“You actually brought her back home, after all. You’re so easy to
read.”
“You two are so annoying! So what if we’re dating now?!”
“So dishonest all of a sudden. Mahiru, could I ask you to stay with this
child?”
“Well, Amane-kun gets shy easily… but I like that about him too.”
“Oh my…”
“I feel relieved seeing your relationship is so good.”
Pleased, his parents looked at Mahiru with encouragement, before
giving Amane the same look, making Amane’s fatigue rise even further. He
didn’t feel like responding anymore.
(…Even though this is my hometown, I feel so overwhelmed)
Due to the nature of his parents, Amane had expected this to happen.
But even so, he felt very embarrassed and uncomfortable as a son.
Compared to him, Mahiru had all their attention and was more comfortable
here than he was, which made him mentally uneasy.
Amane sighed, pretentiously put the album on his lap, and flipped
through it.
Most of the photos Mahiru was happily looking at were Amane’s
failures. Although some shots were taken purely as commemoration, most
of them showed off his unique ways of messing things up.
There were also photos of Amane dressed as a girl, which thoroughly
disappointed him.
Amane had a late growth spurt and looked very young until late in
junior high. Therefore, Shihoko once had him wear girl’s clothes purely for
fun.
By his second year of middle school, Amane’s height suddenly shot
up, and she didn’t have him cross-dress anymore, but Amane still heard
some say he had a feminine face, which was a painful memory.
(…How nostalgic)
Naturally, Amane remembered those who had been close to him before
they finally parted ways.
Amane left this place to avoid them and now, for better or worse, he
drew a clear line separating the past, and wouldn’t get caught up in what
happened back then anymore.
At best, he was slightly troubled at the chance of meeting them again.
As if to let go of his troubling memories, Amane quickly closed the
album and raised his head, and found that Mahiru was looking at him.
“U-um, are you angry, Amane-kun…?”
“No, it’s not that. I just kind of miss it.”
Mahiru seemed to be worried because Amane seemed unhappy.
Amane shrugged and put the album back on the table.
(I can’t let Mahiru worry about this)
Although not wanting to become a victim of his parents’ affectionate
gazes, he reached out his hand and caressed Mahiru’s head.
Mahiru’s eyes widened, but soon narrowed softly and relaxed
comfortably.
As expected, Shihoko smiled warmly. Amane ignored her and gently
touched Mahiru’s head to coax her.
✧₊✦₊✧
It was the third day of their visit, and Mahiru had completely adapted.
“Ah, well done Mahiru-chan.”
In the kitchen, the trio was wearing aprons and doing some snacks in a
good relationship. Amane couldn’t provide any help nor was he asked to, so
he just watched them from a distance in the living room.
As Mahiru came from far away, Shihoko and Shuuto made sure to care
about her in a lot of aspects. They prioritized her over everything and were
already living together happily.
They wanted to dote on their son’s lovely girlfriend. Although Amane
understood that feeling and appreciated them, he himself was left alone.
He had nothing to do, but he didn’t particularly want their attention in
the first place, but even so, Amane couldn’t help but feel complicated at the
situation.
In the conversation and affection between Shihoko and Shuuto, Mahiru
seemed very happy, and of course, Amane was also happy about it.
Mahiru admired having a loving and harmonious family. Now that
she’s able to experience this feeling, Amane didn’t mind if he stayed on the
sidelines.
It was just a little troublesome for him if they doted on her too much,
shortening the time Amane could spend with her.
(Either way, I can be with her more after we return home, so it should
be fine)
Even though he knew he’d be alone with Mahiru the entire time once
they got back, he still felt conflicted.
Regardless, Mahiru was talking happily with his parents, so Amane
left the living room and returned to his room to bury his unpleasant feeling.
Amane sat cross-legged at his table and opened the textbooks he’d
brought along.
After all, since there was nothing to do and most of his game consoles
were back at his apartment, Amane could only kill time by studying. Either
way, he’d have to face the exams sooner or later, and if to maintain a high
ranking, he’d have to constantly study. He didn’t mind studying anyway, so
he didn’t feel bad about it.
He performed his scholastic duty to study and killed time quietly.
Although the textbooks were brand new, Amane still breezed through
the questions, thanks to his daily efforts. Due to his parents’ request and to
be worthy of Mahiru, he didn’t slack on his efforts and wanted to achieve
results he could be proud of
(I used to live by myself as if it were natural, but as soon as she’s not
beside me I feel dissatisfied. Just when did I begin to feel like this?)
There was no doubt it was because of Mahiru.
He realized he took her presence for granted, and Amane began to feel
something was missing when he was suddenly alone.
He spun his red pen out of boredom and sighed inwardly.
He nearly finished all his textbooks. This should’ve been something to
be satisfied with, but Amane sighed once more. Just as he was about swap
his pen out for his mechanical pencil, there were three knocks on his door.
“Amane-kun”
After knocking on the door, Mahiru called out.
Amane originally thought she was cooking in the kitchen, but then
realized that 2 hours passed and she would be finished by now.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing, um, I suddenly noticed you were missing…”
“I’m just studying, I’m bored anyway.”
Amane didn’t expect that two full hours passed, showing just how
much he focused. To be precise, Amane was distracted by many of his
thoughts but concentrated on learning to dismiss them.
“…so that’s it. Well, may I enter?”
“Come on in, but don’t you have more things to talk about with them?”
“…Now I want to talk with you, Amane-kun.”
Perhaps Mahiru started to miss Amane, otherwise, she wouldn’t have
specifically come to his room.
Amane reflected on his immaturity, but naturally, he couldn’t push her
away. Saying “Please come in,” he went to open the door for her.
After opening the door, Amane saw Mahiru in front of him holding a
tray.
There were two cream puffs and some coffee on the tray, which
seemed to have been recently brewed.
“Pardon me…”
Mahiru came in politely, making Amane a little embarrassed.
Amane hurriedly retrieved his textbooks and stationary, brought out
some cushions, and put them down for Mahiru to sit on, and then he took
the tray from her hands and placed it on the folding table.
The cream puffs were fluffy and appealing, and well done to boot;
with an appearance like that, they could even be sold in a cake shop. Since
it was made by Mahiru, the taste was guaranteed to be delicious.
“I just made this, they shouldn’t be cold yet…”
“Oh, thank you.”
Amane was very grateful to Mahiru for bringing them and thanked her
straightforwardly. For some reason, Mahiru then lowered her eyes in
embarrassment.
“…Amane-kun, are you angry?”
“Hm?”
“You seem a little moody, and harder to approach than usual.”
Mahiru saw right through him.
Amane wasn’t angry; Mahiru was mistaken about that. He was simply
a little lonely, but neither his parents nor Mahiru was at fault.
“I’m not angry, just a little lonely since you got dragged away,
Mahiru.”
“Huh… u-um…”
“I’m sorry. I know you’re enjoying the time with my parents. It’s just
me getting sad on my own.”
Amane shrugged and smiled, “I’m still quite childish,” and took a sip
of the coffee that Mahiru poured him.
He knew that Mahiru longed for a loving family, and he should have
watched over her with a smile. The problem was that he felt that he had
nowhere to stay and ran away.
Amane believed that if Mahiru was happy, he didn’t mind being by
himself for a bit. His unhappiness was his alone, and wouldn’t vent it on
Mahiru or his parents.
Amane put his cup down and took a breath. Mahiru looked at him
silently and then leaped onto his chest.
More accurately she was simply leaning against his chest, but in the
face of her sudden intimacy, Amane was bewildered.
Amane didn’t know what happened to Mahiru, so first, he patted her
on the back to calm her. Then, Mahiru slowly raised her head and stared
keenly into Amane’s eyes.
“…Of course I am happy spending time with Shihoko-san, but I enjoy
the time with Amane-kun the most.”
After speaking softly, Mahiru cautiously moved her lips to Amane’s
cheek.
By the time Amane felt a slight softness on his cheek, Mahiru’s face
had already left Amane’s.
Her face was very red, completely different from before; her eyes were
also moist. Amane couldn’t help but kiss Mahiru’s soft cheek back.
(…I’m such an idiot)
He thought it was foolish for him to be jealous when Mahiru had such
a deep affection for him.
Once more, Amane realized Mahiru’s love for him and conveyed his
overflowing emotions onto her smooth cheeks.
Even on her cheeks, Amane still wasn’t accustomed to kissing. Mahiru
was the same. Every time she felt his lips peck her, she shivered slightly.
At first, Mahiru wanted to hide from shame, but after Amane hugged
her and caressed her lovingly, she gradually submitted herself to her.
Sometimes, Mahiru shyly returned a kiss of her own onto Amane’s
cheek. Her expression was so cute that Amane couldn’t help but embrace
her.
“…Say, Mahiru?”
After the two kissed each other on their cheeks for a while, Amane
looked into Mahiru’s eyes.
Mahiru was bashful but delighted, peering up at Amane with an eased
expression.
“Um, tomorrow, should we go out for a bit together? My parents will
be at work anyway.”
“Just the two of us?”
“I haven’t taken you around this area yet. It’s pretty similar to where
we live though, nothing special about it.”
Amane only asked her with the intention of them being alone, but
Mahiru widened her eyes, with a smile even more relaxed than when they
kissed.
“Okay… um, if it’s going to be the two of us, I’ll follow you
anywhere, Amane-kun.”
“Alright.”
“Right now I still want to stay like this with you… Shihoko-san and
Shuuto-san asked me to keep you company.”
“Really, those two are just… wait no, I thought I hid it well, but I’ve
been seen through.”
His parents seem to care about Amane too, it seemed.
Amane felt that he was being too foolish, trembling his body at the
thought, before slowly letting go of Mahiru.
Mahiru felt disappointed at Amane releasing her, but after he pointed
to her cream puff and whispered, “I want to eat the snack you made too,”
she quickly lowered her eyes shyly.
“…Would you like to eat them together?”
“Yeah.”
Amane stopped embracing Mahiru, instead opting to sit next to her
while interlocking hands. Mahiru showed a warm smile.