▣ KO-FI ▣ DISCORD ▣
Chapter 3: The Incident of Me, My Friend’s Sister, and Our Junior Visiting the Campus
For today, I was genuinely grateful for the long summer vacation at university.
Due to global warming and various other factors, temperatures often soared above thirty degrees starting in June in recent years. And in the hottest month of August, it could even reach forty degrees.
Visiting the school on such sweltering days was indeed a tough task… Now, it seems that the resilience I had built up in my middle school days in the track club had completely vanished.
Even though there were no classes, I still had to work, so it didn’t really make much difference.
«There are quite a lot of people…»
At the school’s reception area, many high school students in uniforms like Miyamae Akari’s filled the space.
Most of them came with their parents, and here and there, I could spot a few current university students like myself mingling among them.
«Senior, you look like you’re not familiar with this place…»
«That’s because I never attended a campus tour.»
«Eh? You didn’t?»
Though I surprised her, was it really that uncommon?
Back in my second year of high school, I hadn’t even considered university, and by my third year, I was too busy preparing for exams. Honestly, there was no time for campus tours, especially since this university was far from my hometown.
«So, it’s a first time for all of us!»
Saying so, Miyamae Akari smiled happily.
Indeed, it was my first time participating in such an event, but being a current university student and actually studying here, I doubted if I could truly enjoy this tour.
Moreover, campus tours, designed for prospective students, aim to showcase what the university is like.
Since universities are places for academic pursuits, these events are usually conducted seriously, without much room for entertainment.
After all, if the tours were too lively and fun, the hardworking students preparing for exams in the hot summer might lose focus, so the approach was not wrong.
«Shiragi Ruri, this is going to be interesting~»
«Yeah…»
After completing the registration process and receiving brochures and souvenirs, we were ready to start the tour. However, Miyamae Akari and Shiragi Ruri had different reactions.
Shiragi Ruri seemed to be completely overwhelmed by the heat. Although I could understand that.
«Shiragi Ruri, hold on a bit longer. There’s air conditioning in the classrooms.»
«Miyamae Akari~ Carry me~»
«Shiragi Ruri, what’s wrong with you?»
Shiragi Ruri leaned unsteadily against Miyamae Akari.
I thought this would only make it harder to walk and even hotter… but then I decided to let the two close friends play around, thinking it might distract them, and quietly followed behind.
◇◇◇
Here’s an overview of the campus tour.
First, there was an introduction to the entire university, followed by presentations from each department.
Depending on the visitors’ interests, current students would lead them around the campus, offering individual consultations, a chance to experience the student cafeteria, and trial classes.
Although restricted to certain areas, visitors were allowed some freedom to wander around the campus, which felt quite open.
If I had attended such an event in high school, it might have been beneficial. It helps one imagine university life and boosts motivation.
…That said, the activities still seemed somewhat uninteresting for a current university student… Well, it couldn’t be helped.
«Miyamae Akari, do you want to try the student cafeteria experience?»
«Eh? Should we go now?»
After the department presentations, Shiragi Ruri suggested this, catching Miyamae Akari off guard.
It was only a little past eleven. The cafeteria was not crowded yet, but it was indeed a bit early.
«If we wait until lunchtime, it’ll be crowded.»
Shiragi Ruri disliked crowded places and anything complicated. Going now would indeed help us avoid the crowd.
«And I haven’t eaten anything since this morning; I’m really hungry.»
«Eh!»
«I didn’t have time for breakfast, and… I’m dieting.»
«But you’re already so slim…»
«Even though I don’t have body issues, I like to keep myself ready for binge eating anytime.»
Shiragi Ruri puffed out her chest, leaving me to wonder if she was joking.
It seems counterproductive to binge eat on an empty stomach… wouldn’t that lead to gaining weight?
«If you don’t eat properly, you might get heatstroke.»
«Eh~ Senior~ Are you worried about me~ How sweet~»
«Your tone is way too insincere!»
«If you’re worried about my health, you can carry me~»
«Having the senior carry you…»
Hearing Shiragi Ruri joke like this, Miyamae Akari’s face turned slightly red.
Perhaps she was recalling the day she got heatstroke and the events that followed when the two of us walked home from ‘Ruri’.
Whether it was me carrying her home or the conversations we had… upon reflection, they all seemed embarrassingly intimate. It was a different kind of embarrassment from sharing a bed.
«Why have you two gone quiet?»
«No, nothing! Senior, let’s go!»
«Uh… Yeah, let’s go!»
Continuing the conversation with Shiragi Ruri would only give her more chances to tease us, so Miyamae Akari and I exchanged a look and ended the discussion.
However, Shiragi Ruri didn’t press further but slightly curled her lips up for some reason.
◇◇◇
Chapter 3: The Incident of My Friend’s Sister, Our Junior, and Me Visiting the Campus
Just as I thought, the student cafeteria was nearly empty.
Usually, it’s packed with students at lunchtime, making it hard to find a seat. Seeing it so empty was a bit surprising to me.
I heard that there aren’t many people around before and after the lunch break, during the second and third periods. I might consider freeing up some time next semester to enjoy a relaxed lunch here.
While thinking this, I found us a four-seater table and then headed towards the cafeteria counter.
«Oh, the menu options are pretty limited today.»
«Isn’t it always like this?»
«No, usually there are more choices. I guess the school wants to showcase a few special dishes for the experience activity.»
The menu options for this campus tour included curry rice, ramen, and a set meal. The main dish for the set meal had two options: fried chicken or salt-grilled salmon.
«Senior, please order the fried chicken set for me.»
«Why?»
«Because I want to eat fried chicken curry rice.»
«So you plan to steal my fried chicken!»
«Shiragi Ruri! You can have my fried chicken if you want…!»
«I can’t take Miyamae Akari’s fried chicken. You’re still growing; you need to eat more.»
«Gro-growing…?»
Shiragi Ruri mischievously teased Miyamae Akari by lightly poking her—right in the chest.
«Shiragi Ruri! Stop touching me like that!»
«Miyamae Akari, I know everything. You occ～asionally look up ways online to make these grow bigger.»
«How do you know that… wait! Don’t say such things in front of the senior!»
Miyamae Akari protested with a flushed face, but Shiragi Ruri seemed indifferent, continuing her teasing.
Watching this scene unfold, I wasn’t sure how to react…
Though unspoken, Miyamae Akari’s chest was definitely not small. In fact, it was quite ample.
«See, Miyamae Akari, eating well is the most important foundation for sculpting your figure. If you eat properly… look, you can end up like this.»
Shiragi Ruri puffed out her chest proudly.
Wait, didn’t she just say she deliberately skipped breakfast to be ready for binge eating, suggesting she doesn’t eat regularly?
Despite wanting to point this out, the noticeable bulge of her prominent bust, even through her sailor uniform, lent her words a convincing power.
But her case is special, and Miyamae Akari’s chest is also—
«Can I grow to be like Shiragi Ruri… or even like Ruri’ai?»
Miyamae Akari’s eyes widened in shock. Was she genuinely moved by that idea?
Then, for some reason, she glanced at me before looking down at her own chest.
«I wonder if I can become like Shiragi Ruri… or even Ruri’ai…»
It’s probably best not to compare with Ruri’ai. She’s exceptional… no, rather, she’s extraordinary.
Even as her relative, I have to admit that her figure is far beyond that of an average Japanese person.
Despite her impressive physique, there haven’t been any scandals about her… I guess it’s because of her personality.
«Miyamae Akari, I don’t think you need to compare yourself to her—»
«Senior!»
«Please, go ahead!»
«I also want some of your fried chicken!»
«Eh?»
«Then… I’ll keep growing for you to see!»
Miyamae Akari clenched her fists, declaring this with determination.
«Okay… go for it.»
Overwhelmed by her enthusiasm, I couldn’t find the right words to say and just encouraged her.
And then—
«Ah, this is delicious!»
«Yeah, surprisingly good.»
«…That’s great.»
So, I quietly ate my plain set meal of rice, miso soup, and pickles, while watching the two of them enjoy the fried chicken curry rice.
By the way, I had to pay for my meal, while they enjoyed the free offerings from the campus tour. Life sure is tough.
◇◇◇
After lunch and a brief stroll around the school building, Miyamae Akari and Shiragi Ruri decided to join the trial classes, so we split up for a while.
As a current university student, attending a trial class and taking up a seat there seemed odd and a bit awkward.
So, suddenly having some free time, I was pondering what to do when my phone vibrated.
«…You’re not secretly watching, are you?»
«What do you mean?»
The same clueless voice came through the phone, unchanged from the past.
«Today is the campus tour day at our school, right? I guessed you guys would be there, so I called!»
«Oh, is that so.»
The caller was Miyamae Subaru—Miyamae Akari’s older brother and the reason she ended up staying at my place after he borrowed money (500 yen) from me.
By the way, he was at a driving school camp.
«How’s Miyamae Akari doing? Is she okay?»
«She’s fine, so much so that it’s hard to believe she’s your sister.»
«Hahaha, I told you!»
Although my comment was somewhat critical of him, he didn’t seem to mind.
After all, Subaru is a self-professed and widely acknowledged sister-con. As long as someone praises Miyamae Akari, he wouldn’t care about anything else.
«But you called at just the right moment. She was with me until just a few moments ago.»
«Really?»
«She’s participating in a trial class now.»
«I see, it makes sense for you not to attend those classes that don’t add to your attendance record.»
«Well… I can’t deny that, but there could be a nicer way to put it.»
Even saying it out loud made me feel resigned.
For us ordinary university students, credits are everything. I fully understood last semester that attending classes was about earning credits, not solely for the sake of learning.
For those students who come to university with a genuine desire to study, I still feel a bit guilty.
«And why did you call?»
«Oh, right, I almost forgot.»
I blatantly changed the subject, but Subaru didn’t mind and continued.
«The main reason I called is that my driving school camp is almost over.»
«Is that so? That’s a pity.»
«I didn’t fail! I should be getting my license!»
«Is that so? That’s a pity…»
«Why are you sounding disappointed! Just praise me!»
«You did great~»
«Hehe, sorry about that.»
Though my tone sounded somewhat insincere, Subaru didn’t seem to mind.
«By the way, once I get my driver’s license, how about all of us going to the beach together?»
«The beach!»
This enticing word suddenly lifted my spirits.
When thinking of summer, the beach inevitably comes to mind. Reflecting on it, I realized I hadn’t really done anything to enjoy this summer yet.
«…Wait, hold on, who do you mean by ‘all of us’?»
«Of course, I mean you, me, and Miyamae Akari.»
«Miyamae Akari?»
«Yes.»
«…Isn’t Miyamae Akari a student?»
«She needs some relaxation too!»
This former student spoke so casually, but he had entered this university through recommendation and hardly prepared for exams last year…
«So, it’s just going to be the three of us?»
«If you have someone else in mind to invite, feel free to bring them along.»
«Wait, aren’t you going to invite Hasebe-san?»
«You little…! Don’t tell me you’re looking forward to seeing Nanao in a swimsuit!»
«I never said that! I was just curious because you didn’t invite your own girlfriend, that’s all!»
Hasebe-san is a classmate of ours and Subaru’s girlfriend.
Although I’m not sure if they are deeply in love, Subaru certainly seems to be very fond of her.
«I’ve already made plans to take her on a different day, so you don’t have to worry.»
«Oh, is that so?»
«Besides, we’ve just started dating, and suddenly introducing her to family might be a bit much, don’t you think?»
«You mean Miyamae Akari?»
«Yes.»
I don’t have siblings or a girlfriend, so I might not fully understand, but it seems to be a significant concern for Subaru.
«See, in Miyamae Akari’s eyes, am I not her most respected and perfect brother?»
I think a perfect brother wouldn’t make his sister handle a measly debt of 500 yen.
«She might expect my girlfriend to be perfect too. Don’t get me wrong, I think Nanao is a great girl, but…»
«Aren’t you embarrassed to say that?»
«And if Miyamae Akari doesn’t like her, it would upset me too! Imagine if she says, ‘Oh, so she’s your girlfriend? That’s it?’ I’d be devastated!»
«So, you’re afraid of her being disappointed…»
«But even if she turns into a little devil, Miyamae Akari is still adorable.»
Is that really… the case?
I tried to imagine it and realized that Miyamae Akari had never shown hostility towards me.
«Do you really think Miyamae Akari would get angry…?»
«What are you talking about? Of course, she would. I think she tends to get angry quite easily… But that’s also part of her charm!»
Every time I ask him something, he always finds a way to boast, which can be quite annoying.
«Ah, there’s a reason Miyamae Akari doesn’t get angry in front of you.»
«A reason?»
«What was it again?»
«Hey!»
«Hahaha! Anyway, it’s something I can’t just say out loud!»
He still refused to reveal the reason… leaving a lingering sense of unease.
Miyamae Akari never getting angry due to some reason, and Subaru knows it, but I’m completely in the dark.
«What? Do you want Miyamae Akari to get angry with you?»
«Not at all… I’m just worried she might be holding back.»
«Haha, that concern is so typical of you.»
Subaru’s laughter sounded gentle, yet for some reason, a bit melancholic.
It was a mature tone, unlike his usual self.
«Anyway, you don’t need to worry about Miyamae Akari. Every time she gets angry with me, it’s not really voluntary!»
«Haha…»
«No, wait, I guess I don’t have the right to say that!»
«Exactly.»
We both laughed.
Even though Subaru told me not to worry, and it didn’t mean Miyamae Akari wasn’t feeling aggrieved, it made me feel a bit more at ease.
«But please ask Miyamae Akari what she thinks about the beach trip. Oh, and you can invite that lady you work with too.»
«Which lady are you referring to?»
«The cousin you work with!»
«Ah, Shiragi Ruri…»
Subaru occasionally visits ‘Kizuna’ to hang out with me, and he has seen Shiragi Ruri a few times there as well.
He once mentioned that Shiragi Ruri was so beautiful that he found it difficult to look at her directly.
«If we’re going to the beach, I really want to see her in a swimsuit! Can’t help it, I’m a man after all!»
«Sigh…»
«What are you sighing about? It’s so disappointing. Motomu, don’t tell me you’re already tired of seeing her in a swimsuit?»
He bluntly asked this difficult question.
After all, Shiragi Ruri and I are cousins, so of course I’ve seen her in a swimsuit… But speaking the truth seemed like it would invite trouble, so I decided to remain silent.
«Anyway, you have to bring big sister! If you don’t get her to come, you’ll face a punishment!»
«Uh… don’t I have the right to refuse? Besides, she loves traveling and might suddenly go somewhere else.»
«I don’t care! Your responsibility is to invite big sister and Akari! If there are other people who want to join… as long as they’re girls, it’s fine! If it’s a guy, they have to discuss with me first!»
«You’re too honest with your desires!»
«Then, I’m counting on you for everything! Bye～!»
The phone call ended with the sound of the line being cut. That guy actually hung up on me.
«So, does this mean we’re definitely going to the beach…? But Akari and the others are students, and Shiragi Ruri might not be able to go──»
«The beach?»
«Uh!»
Ruri (实璃) suddenly appeared beside me.
How did she get here! Wasn’t she supposed to be still in class?
«I sneaked out.»
Ruri said, stuffing a handkerchief into her skirt pocket.
It seemed she had gone to the restroom.
«What’s this about going to the beach? I also heard something about being honest with desires.»
«Uh…!»
«Was the person on the phone Akari’s brother?»
«Are you a psychic!?»
I was sure I hadn’t accidentally turned on speaker mode.
Ruri couldn’t have heard Subaru’s voice… No, maybe she just happened to hear me mention his name.
«Because I know you don’t have many friends.»
…So it was for a more depressing reason.
Through Akari, it wouldn’t be hard for her to know what kind of person Subaru is, but I still couldn’t believe how accurate her guess was.
«So you guys decided to go to the beach?»
«He just called to invite me, and said he wanted to bring Akari too.»
«I see…»
«But you’re all students, you probably don’t have time to go out──»
«I want to go.»
Ruri said it as if it was the most natural thing:
«Akari’s brother must have mentioned that other girls could be invited. It shouldn’t be a problem if I go too, right?»
«You really are a psychic, aren’t you…!»
«No, it’s just my intuition.»
Ruri said, lifting the corners of her mouth.
It seemed she was deliberately coaxing me into talking. But, being completely seen through by her was also a fact.
«I think Akari would agree too. After all, this is a great opportunity.»
«What opportunity?»
«Why don’t you guess, senior?»
She was intentionally teasing me.
Although I nearly fell for it, in the end, I held back.
I really couldn’t understand what going to the beach meant as an opportunity for Akari.
Moreover, guessing wrong would probably just give Ruri an excuse to tease me.
«So, can you guess why I want to go along?»
«…Because it seems like it might be fun?»
«That kind of answer doesn’t count. Please be more specific.»
«More specific, huh…»
…No, I just can’t figure it out.
After all, it’s been a long time since I’ve talked to Ruri.
When I moved from junior high to high school, our interactions significantly decreased. And naturally, they became even less after moving from high school to university.
It was even the first time I heard that Ruri wanted to attend this university—
«I really can’t handle you, senior… no, Motomu.»
Suddenly, arms wrapped around me from behind.
A warm and soft body pressed against mine—
«The answer is because I’m lonely.»
Ruri said this, half-jokingly laughing.
Though her tone was as elusive as ever, the strength of her arms holding me didn’t seem like a joke.
This made it impossible for me to treat it as just a playful tease.
«Hey, why are you suddenly…»
«You’re still as dense as ever, Motomu.»
«You’re calling me Motomu…»
«Have you forgotten?»
«…I haven’t forgotten.»
Ruri and I were very close during our junior high days.
We were both athletes and managers of the track and field club… But upon reflection, our relationship might have been even closer than that.
People around us would, of course, tease us about it, but I never took it seriously, and I wasn’t mature enough to worry about Ruri’s situation, so I always casually let others gossip—
One day, a classmate said to Ruri that the two of us were just like siblings.
Both Ruri and I were only children, without any siblings. Although we had freedom, there was no one to accompany us.
Maybe that’s why we got along so well.
And maybe that’s why we didn’t really understand what a sibling relationship should be like.
(So this is what it feels like to have a sister…)
Even though this might also have been her way of teasing me, she did give me a sense of closeness and comfort that no other girl did.
Ruri used to deliberately call me «Motomu» for a while. Now that I think about it, that form of address doesn’t sound very intimate.
Nevertheless, her pressing her face against my back and holding me tightly like this still causes trouble.
«Teasing has its limits.»
«Okay～»
After being reminded by me, she let go straightforwardly.
She walked away lightly, then turned back around.
«By the way, senior.»
«Yes?»
«Can I sleep with you tonight?»
«…………What?»
«You’ve slept with Akari before, right? And in the same bed.»
«How did you know about that!»
«Ahaha, your expression is really weird.»
Ruri, looking triumphant, teasingly laughed at me.
And then──
«It seems you’re not completely clueless after all.»
She murmured softly and quickly walked away.
◇◇◇
«Oh, Senpai!»
Ruri waved her hand vigorously and ran towards me.
She wore a big smile and had a loud step — it was as if I was seeing a phantom of her with dog ears and a tail.
«Thank you for your hard work! I’m sorry to keep you waiting……!»
«It’s okay, I just happened to be able to take a break too.»
He was almost about to reach out and touch her head, but in the end he held back.
I was so close …… to committing sexual harassment. Mitsuru is still staring at me from the side, so I have to be careful.
«How does it feel to experience teaching?»
«It doesn’t feel like the content of high school classes, I should say it’s more specialized and unique …… I still want to listen to a few more classes to see!»
Oooh…… so, so dazzling!
This is the current high school student …… Is the light emitted by young people who only harbor dreams and hopes for college ……!
«Is that so? Then it was worth it for us to come here today.»
«Yes! I really want to come to school here soon!»
Little Ruri nodded with a smile and desperately waved her invisible tail.
Mitsuru, on the other hand, stood behind her and looked over with a look that implied that I should hurry up and tell that story.
Why are the two of them so different …… I mean in terms of cuteness.
«By the way, little Ruri, I have something to tell you.»
«May I ask what is it?»
«It’s that …… Subaru called me just now.»
«My sister? Ah……! He didn’t say something rude again, did he?»
«No, you’ve got it wrong. He asked me if I want to go to the beach with him.»
«To the beach?»
Ruri’s eyes widened and her whole body jumped slightly.
Then, she looked first to Ruri ……’s breasts and then down to her own.
«Going to the beach to play ah……»
She was clearly losing interest!
«Little, little Ruri? I don’t think you need to compare yourself to others ……?»
«I don’t mean to compare myself to others! I just want to be just like Li!»
«But, but, you were comparing yourself to Mizuri, but I think you’re pretty good at it too…»
«Oops! That statement is totally sexual harassment!»
I hurriedly covered my mouth, but it was already too late.
This wasn’t just a case of accidentally seeing her in her underwear, or because the bedding got wet from the rain, forcing us to share a bed. This couldn’t be brushed off as a mere accident!
This was irrefutable evidence of me looking at Miyamae Akari with lecherous eyes, particularly at her chest!
My cheeks gradually heated up, and cold sweat broke out on my back, the kind not even the blazing sun could be blamed for.
«…Ah.»
Miyamae Akari stared at me blankly, frozen in place.
Her eyes widened, and her cheeks slightly reddened. This meant she definitely heard what I just said. There was absolutely no misunderstanding.
«Senpai, do you want to see me in a swimsuit…?»
«Huh?»
I was taken aback by her question, completely caught off guard.
I initially thought she would get angry, show an awkward bitter smile, or unabashedly change the topic… Otherwise, she might react in a similar manner. I didn’t expect her to further inquire like this!
«Well…»
For a moment, the idea that this might be a trap flashed through my mind, but I knew Miyamae Akari wasn’t that kind of girl.
I could only trust that her question was purely out of curiosity.
As for the answer she wanted to hear – there could only be one.
«Yes, I want to see.»
I could never say something like «I don’t want to see you in a swimsuit» to a girl, taking that as the right answer was absurd. If this was a wrong choice, then I’d just have to accept it.
«Hehe…»
Hearing my response, Miyamae Akari smiled shyly.
Great, it seems I answered correctly. Just as I was secretly relieved—
«Shiragi Ruri, did you hear that!»
«Yes, loud and clear.»
«What do you mean by saying all that!»
Seeing them act as if they had obtained a criminal’s confession made me doubt again if I had really fallen into a trap.
«Could it be… You have a recording?»
«A recording! Shiragi Ruri, do you have it?»
«Ah~ I didn’t think of that.»
«Oh… then, Senpai, could you say it again?»
«I absolutely will not!»
Miyamae Akari laughed joyfully, and Shiragi Ruri smiled, as if she had seen through something.
I was played by two high school girls like this, spending the school visitation event in the scorching heat.
Although we ended up mostly chatting, saying that we were visiting the university was just a pretense… Anyway, as long as Miyamae Akari and Shiragi Ruri seemed satisfied, I guess there wasn’t much to worry about.
And then, about our plan to go to the beach—
«They all agreed.»
«Really? Will that big sister also go?»
«Yes.»
It turns out that the week Subaru invited us to the beach, the café was also temporarily closing.
My uncle and aunt planned to take a summer vacation and travel together.
Shiragi Ruri said it was odd for someone her age to join a family trip and preferred to travel alone.
However, because I happened to invite her during her trip planning stage, she decided to spend this year at the beach with high school girls… that’s what she told me.
Honestly, I think it’s stranger for someone her age to hang out with high school girls than to join a family trip, but I can’t say that to her face, or I’m dead.
«Also, Miyamae Akari’s friend just happened to come here too, and that girl will join us.»
«Miyamae Akari’s friend…? Could it be Sakurai Misaki?»
«Do you know her?»
«Yeah. She occasionally visits our house. I hardly ever spoke to her, but I remember she’s a cute girl… Wait, how do you know her?»
«She was my junior in middle school, but I didn’t know she was Miyamae Akari’s friend.»
«Is that so… the world is indeed small… Wait a minute! You said Sakurai Misaki just happened to go to your place, don’t tell me she’s also staying at your house—»
«Huh? How strange~? I can’t seem to get a good signal here, can’t hear you clearly~?»
«Hey, don’t think you can get away with this monkey business—»
…I quickly hung up the phone.
That was close. Almost invited unnecessary trouble.
If Subaru knew that Shiragi Ruri was also staying at my place, he’d definitely ask a lot of awkward questions.
«Senpai, I’m done with my bath~»
«Okay, Miyamae Akari, thank you for letting me know.»
As I reported back to Subaru and stood on the balcony, lost in thought, Miyamae Akari, in her pajamas, came to call me.
«Ah, but Shiragi Ruri just went in to bathe… you might have to wait outside a bit longer.»
«Is that so? Then I’ll just continue spacing out here.»
Originally, I went outside to avoid hearing Miyamae Akari bathing, but now I’m enjoying this time.
I once heard that having idle time is essential for a high-quality life; now I truly understand it.
«All thanks to Miyamae Akari…»
«Huh?»
Since I started living alone, I developed the habit of talking to myself.
Since Miyamae Akari came to my house, I felt like I was doing it less often.
But like now, when I’m spacing out outside, I can’t help but fall back into this old habit.
Even though she’s right beside me.
«Ahaha… Sorry, I suddenly said something weird.»
«No, no problem! Does this mean I’ve been of help to Senpai?»
«Of course, but that’s not quite right. After all, I’m not that great.»
«That’s good then.»
Perhaps really concerned about this, Miyamae Akari relievedly patted her chest.
She might unexpectedly be a negative thinker… something I’ve realized while living with her.
She’s generally an excellent girl, hardly struggling with university entrance exam questions, and manages to perfectly handle cooking, cleaning, and laundry while studying hard.
She’s understanding and likable. Even a praise like ‘nice personality’, which sounds fake, suits her.
Her appearance is, of course, flawless… she’s probably been confessed to countless times.
Although praise suits her more than criticism, her negative thinking surprises me.
…As I think about this, Miyamae Akari bashfully lowers her head.
«Ah, sorry.»
«No, no problem, I know Senpai occasionally talks to himself…»
«Huh? I didn’t accidentally say what I was thinking, did I…!»
«Yeah… I accidentally heard some of it…»
Miyamae Akari said this with an awkward look. Even though it’s dark outside, and not very clear… her face might have already turned bright red.
What did she hear exactly…!
Since I wasn’t aware of it this time, I have no idea what she might have heard.
And just when I realized I had slipped into my old habit, I did it again… I was too careless!
«I’m really sorry…»
«Senpai, you don’t need to apologize! I was mentally prepared, knowing you’d soon talk to yourself.»
«Is it possible to be prepared for that kind of thing!»
«Yes. Just by observing you often, I can catch the moment.»
Miyamae Akari smiled a somewhat mature smile, making my heart flutter.
She’s an incredible girl, sometimes childish, and other times, she seems like a calm big sister.
«I really like it when Senpai talks to himself.»
«I can’t be happy about that… I think it’s a bad habit.»
«Is it?»
«Of course. It’s rude and can make one seem unstable. I thought I did it less since you came to my house.»
To be honest, even though Miyamae Akari said I only do it ‘occasionally’, I still feel a bit disheartened.
«Does being with me really make you restless?»
«Huh?»
«Because… every time you talk to yourself, it’s usually when you’re in a very relaxed state… If being with me makes you feel stifled—»
«No, it’s quite the opposite.»
To dispel her worries, I immediately denied her assumption, though it sounded a bit like I was cutting her off mid-sentence.
«When I first started living alone, I was just happy to have more free time to myself. I felt truly free because I didn’t have to consider anyone else.»
I’m not sure when, but I began to harbor a vague longing for a solitary life.
Probably because living alone gives a sense of independence and maturity.
However, I still rely on my parents financially, so true independence is still a long way off.
«But being alone made me restless. It was too quiet… which is why I ended up talking to myself. But that’s also because no one ever pointed it out to me.»
«Isn’t that quite lonely?»
«Actually, it’s not like that… No, maybe you’re right.»
While I wouldn’t call it homesickness, Miyamae Akari’s word «lonely» resonated with me.
Right, it’s the summer holiday, maybe I should take some time to visit my hometown. It might be a bit late for that, but—
«After all, now you’re with me.»
«…Huh?»
«I don’t feel lonely like I used to.»
Those quiet days when I was alone, without hearing ‘Welcome back’ or ‘I’m home’, feel like a distant past now.
This feeling is different from hanging out with friends at university or being busy with part-time work.
The lively yet slightly oppressive life I’m living now, comfortable in its own way… it’s all thanks to Miyamae Akari coming to my house.
«Um… Senpai, what do you mean by—»
«Akari~»
The room door opened.
My new housemate, Sakurai Misaki, clad in a simple T-shirt and shorts, came out and hugged Miyamae Akari.
«Whoa! Misaki!»
«Akari~»
Misaki hugged Miyamae Akari tightly, laughing and playing around with her.
I figured I’d probably upset them if I interfered.
«I’m going to take a shower too.»
«Wait! Senpai! What you just said was…!»
«Even though it’s warm, be careful not to catch a cold.»
With that, I quickly escaped to the changing room.
«My cheeks are burning…»
Then, covering my heated cheeks, I sighed deeply.
Honestly, Misaki’s sudden appearance really saved me. I wasn’t sure what more I would have said if I had continued.
One thing I know… Miyamae Akari has seamlessly integrated into my daily life without me realizing.
I don’t even want to think about the inevitable end that will come soon.
◆◆◆
Misaki, of course, didn’t bring her bedding, so naturally, she crawled into my bed.
Thinking about it, it seems this is the first time we’re spending the night together. No, we did during the field trip.
But this is our first time under the same blanket, and it feels different than sharing a bed with Senpai.
«How long do you plan to stay, Misaki?»
«At least until the day we go to the beach~»
…Speaking of which, Senpai and Misaki’s relationship does seem a bit unusual.
They both give off a vibe that they’re very used to this.
«Could it be… this isn’t your first time staying over?»
«You mean staying at Senpai’s? Yeah.»
Misaki admitted it readily, nonchalantly stating it as if it were obvious.
«No, this is a big deal!»
«Whoa!»
«Akari, why did you suddenly yell?»
«So Misaki, you’ve stayed at his place before!»
Shocked, I turned and pressed Senpai for answers.
Senpai seemed startled by my reaction, nodding a bit fearfully.
«Yes. She occasionally stays at my place. But always at my old home.»
«Senpai’s old home…!»
«Since my parents are often not home, I usually go to Senpai’s place for dinner and such.»
«Say it like we’re hosting you, but you’re just freeloading.»
«You can put it that way if you want.»
She even had dinner at Senpai’s house…!
That’s too much… Misaki is overdoing it!
«But, Senpai’s parents and Noah really welcome me.»
«Noah?»
«The cat at Senpai’s house.»
«Huh! You mean the cat in Senpai’s Line profile picture!»
«That’s the one.»
Senpai set a black cat as his Line profile picture.
We talked a bit about it when we became friends, and I knew it was his pet, but…!
«It’s not Noah, it’s Nova. By the way… does it get along with you?»
«Well… maybe not that well. It often steps on my face while I’m sleeping.»
«Ah, that did happen. Nova often comes into my room in the morning, jumps on my stomach to wake me up.»
«And every time, it uses my face as a springboard, and waking up is always terrible.»
Senpai and Misaki happily reminisced.
But after hearing all this, I realized something—
«Could it be… you guys slept in the same room!»
«Yes.»
«You say that so casually!»
I couldn’t help but exclaim, causing Senpai and Misaki to look at each other.
«After all, it was back in junior high school. I often made her stay late to practice with me… Afterward, whenever she said, ‘My parents aren’t home today,’ I felt bad for keeping her and thought it was only natural to invite her over for dinner…»
«Actually, I purposely stayed late to practice just to eat dinner at Senpai’s house.»
«I thought so.»
Senpai and Misaki’s back-and-forth made me feel a tightness in my chest.
They indeed had a bond formed during their junior high days. Though different from romantic feelings, I couldn’t help but feel envious.
«However, I think Akari staying overnight at Senpai’s apartment alone is more impressive.»
«I, I did that because… I had to use my body as collateral for my brother!»
«Ah~ You did say that.»
«So it’s not strange at all!»
Honestly, even I find the reason of using my body as collateral bizarre, but denying it would be counterproductive.
Because… without such an absurd reason, I wouldn’t have been able to establish a connection with Senpai…!
«Yes, Akari came to my house to help Subaru as collateral. She’s different from you, without ulterior motives.»
«Ugh…!»
Senpai was surely trying to defend me so that Misaki wouldn’t see me as strange, but in reality, I had ulterior motives…!
Hearing how certain Senpai was, it was clear Misaki wasn’t wrong, and my efforts might have had no effect on him at all.
Instead, I felt that Misaki’s relationship with Senpai was better than mine… Ugh, I’m so useless…
«Senpai is still the same as always.»
«What do you mean by that?»
«Just what it sounds like.»
Misaki sighed, looking dumbfounded.
The fear of confessing to Senpai and being rejected, thus ending these happy moments, always lingered in my mind, preventing me from taking that step.
But it doesn’t matter.
For me, this time spent with Senpai is happy and joyful, irreplaceable… so I’m content to maintain the status quo.
«Should we turn off the lights now?»
Noticing my silence, Senpai asked.
«So, Akari, Misaki, good night.»
«Good night, Senpai!»
Seeing my excited reaction, Misaki couldn’t help but give a wry smile.
She probably thought I was childish, which was a bit embarrassing, but the happiness I felt was undeniable.
Though my inner unease hadn’t completely vanished, that was a separate issue.
I basked in the warmth and happiness Senpai brought me and quietly closed my eyes.
