Chapter I | “The End of Love”

♢♢♢

Late July.

The early morning of a weekday, just two days before the start of my second high school summer vacation.

My day, as Inuzuka Himari, begins five minutes before my alarm goes off.

“Mmm…”

I stretch out on my bed.

I cancel my phone alarm before it rings and get up from bed. I pull open the curtains with a flourish to check today’s weather—hmm, not great!

The rainy season is over, but with such a cloudy sky, it’s a bit disappointing. A cloudless, sunny day would suit the super cute Himari-chan much better, don’t you think?

Anyway, even if the weather is bad, I still have to go to school.

I take off my yukata, fold it neatly, and place it beside my bed. I borrowed this from my late grandmother, so I can’t treat it carelessly. If I make my grandfather angry, he’s way scarier than my brother.

Suddenly, I catch a glimpse of myself in the full-length mirror in the corner of the room, standing there in my underwear.

“…Wow, there’s a beauty.”

For a moment, I thought it was someone else. Is it really okay for such a cute girl to exist in this world? I must be truly loved by the gods.

…Just kidding. Heh. There are tons of cute girls like me in this world.

(If only this could be a bit more of a weapon, things might change…)

I push them up a little.

I’ve already stopped caring about the lack of volume.

Boobs aren’t meant to be squeezed by others—they’re meant to be squeezed by yourself. That’s an unchanging truth, regardless of gender. So, Enocchi is more than enough for the boob department. Okay?

Anyway, enough fooling around. I have to get to school. I quickly change, grab my bag, and leave my room.

The smell of toast wafts from the kitchen.

“Morning~”

I peek in and see my brother there. Dressed sharply in a suit, he’s sipping coffee while reading the newspaper.

My brother greets me with a gentle smile.

“Good morning, Himari. Mom’s already gone to the fields, so prepare your own breakfast.”

“Okay. Got it~”

I toast my own bread and arrange the salad and fried egg on the table. I grab a Yoghurppe from the fridge, and breakfast is ready.

“Where’s Grandpa?”

“He’s out for his morning run.”

Grandpa’s so energetic. It’s hard to believe he’s almost a hundred.

After I finish breakfast, my brother folds the newspaper. Since it’s time for him to head to the city office, he offers to drop me off at school.

I get into my brother’s beloved car, and we head to school.

The conversation, as usual, goes like this:

“Himari, how’s Yuu-kun been lately?”

“Oh, same as always.”

“I see. By the way, did you get your final exam results back?”

“Ah, the ones we got back yesterday? I think I avoided failing. We’re getting three more subjects back today, so we’ll see.”

“That’s good. It’d be a hassle if you had to take makeup exams again.”

“I’ll be fine this time. I’ve been keeping an eye on him. You worry too much, Onii-chan.”

We continue our peaceful conversation until we arrive at school.

I get out of the car and wave goodbye to my brother.

Now, let’s check the time.

Actually, it’s still early. I have an important task, which is why I’m at school 30 minutes earlier than usual.

I head to the flowerbed behind the bike parking area.

This is where the gardening club plants our flowers. Last month, there was nothing here, but now there are lots of seedlings I planted.

My job is to water them in the morning. Yuu is bad at waking up early, and Enocchi has to help out at her family’s Western confectionery shop.

I get the watering can from the storage shed, fill it with water from the sports field faucet, and carefully water the flowers, avoiding the petals.

Whenever I water the flowers, I always compliment them, saying, “You’re so cute,” and I’m sure they’re thinking, “Not as cute as Himari-sama!” Puhahaha.

I gaze at the cosmos seedlings planted in the corner of the flowerbed.

Cosmos look beautiful when planted in rows, so I planted a variety of them. My favorite is… this potted black cosmos.

Chocolate cosmos.

They have a more subdued impression compared to regular cosmos, but as the name suggests, they have a chocolate-like scent. It’s a mysterious flower.

Cosmos generally need full sun, but chocolate cosmos prefer partial shade. That’s why I planted this one in a pot so I can move it around.

They’ll bloom around the end of summer vacation, so I’ll take good care of them until then. I’ll make sure they bloom beautifully~♡

…And that’s a glimpse into my daily life.

The existence of me, Himari, who combines cuteness and devotion, shows just how lucky Yuu is. This episode gives a peek into that, right? I’m good at studying, have great grades, and even my school records are excellent. The gods are so unfair, aren’t they?

But even a perfect girl like me has worries lately☆

As I water the flowers, it’s almost time for school to start. More students are passing by the bike parking area.

I was about to head to the classroom when…

“Ah, Yuu!”

A tall boy comes walking over, pushing his bike.

With a calm, composed face, he’s my best friend, work partner, and the object of my secret crush.

That’s Natsume Yuu-kun♪

Yuu notices me too. He takes a slight step back.

Unbothered, I flash a perfect smile, wave, and run over to him.

“Yuu. Ohayo~!”

I raise my hand for our usual shoulder touch!

——My hand swipes through empty air.

The atmosphere freezes.

Of course, time hasn’t stopped. The other students are walking to school as usual. Only Yuu and I stand there in silence.

Nfufu~. Even I’m surprised. I can’t believe I failed to touch Yuu at such close range.

Well, I’m only human, right? Everyone makes mistakes. But it’s not a big deal. What’s important isn’t avoiding mistakes but trying again after failing. That’s what my grandpa taught me when I was little.

So, let’s try again!

“Yuu. Ohayo~!”

My hand swipes through empty air again.

…Yuu, with a completely calm face, is fiddling with his phone. When I try to peek, he subtly turns the screen away.

It’s a LINE message. I only caught a glimpse, but I’m pretty sure the sender was… Enocchi.

“Yuu?”

“Ah, Himari? I didn’t notice you. Morning.”

“Liar! That move just now was like something a martial arts master would do!”

“N-no, I’m not lying. Ah, the weather’s nice today, huh?”

“Your topic change is so bad! It’s cloudy today!”

“Ah, um, well, you don’t need sunscreen or anything, right?”

“No, UV rays are actually worse on cloudy days.”

“O-oh, right. Haha…”

The conversation dies.

Yuu silently pushes his bike and parks it in the bike area. He walks beside me, still glued to his phone.

“Hey, Yuu. It’s dangerous to use your phone while walking.”

“Ah, yeah…”

“…………”

“…………”

He’s not stopping…

He’s determined to reply within three seconds. Since when did he prioritize LINE this much? Is he one of those girls who checks her phone in the movie theater?

“Fufu, fufufu…”

I won’t lose!

I’ll make him look at me no matter what…!

“By the way, Yuu~. Have you thought about plans for summer vacation?”

“Hmm? Ah, I’ve been so busy studying for finals that I forgot…”

“Right, right? Making accessories is important, but it’s summer vacation, so we should go out and have fun, right? Once we graduate, we might not get chances like this anymore.”

“Yeah. Maybe we should go on a trip.”

As he says this, Yuu’s eyes don’t leave his phone. He quickly types out a message.

That’s fine. This is going according to plan.

But letting my guard down here was a fatal mistake.

I lean in close to Yuu’s ear and whisper.

“How about we… stay overnight together?”

“…!?”

Yuu flinches, almost dropping his phone.

——Got him!

Yuu barely catches his phone and yells, flustered.

“W-what the hell are you saying!?”

Puhahaha.

He was so calm earlier, but now he’s bright red. Seriously, trying to escape from me is a mistake. I’ve spent three years mastering the Yuu Certification Exam. I know exactly what to say to get a funny reaction out of him.

I smirk and press my advantage.

“Eh? There’s no need to be shy~. We’re inseparable best friends, right?”

“W-well, yeah. But staying overnight with a guy and a girl is obviously a no-go…”

“Yuu. Do you really think my family would allow it? If I said I wanted to stay overnight somewhere, my brother would book a high-end inn in seconds.”

“Well, that’s true…”

Yuu’s completely flustered.

Nfufu~. Even now, he’s still glued to his phone, but once I’ve got him like this, it’s over. Victory is mine. The rarest performance, no delays!

To connect to the legendary “Puhahaha!”, I’ll deliver the finishing blow!

“Ah, or are you starting to feel conscious of me~?”

“N-no, it’s not like that…”

Yuu’s face turns bright red as he falters. His guard is completely down! Time to hit him with the “Did you really take me seriously? Puhahaha!”

Ready, set—

“Did you really take me seriou—!?”

Suddenly, my mouth is covered!

It’s not Yuu. A pair of white arms reach out from behind me. I turn around cautiously and lock eyes with a beautiful girl with reddish-black hair.

Enocchi is staring at me with a piercing gaze.

“Hii-chan. Morning.”

“G-good morning, Enocchi…”

She releases me. The air feels fresh again.

Enocchi, the girl Yuu first fell in love with, naturally takes his hand. Her long fingers intertwine with his, creating a very lovey-dovey atmosphere. To be specific, it’s like a lovers’ handhold.

“Ah, Enocchi…”

“…………”

The awkward atmosphere thickens as Enocchi lets out a soft laugh. Then she says, “Yuu-kun, let’s go to class,” and quickly leads Yuu away!

“Ah, wait, Yuu…”

The moment I try to chase after them, Enocchi turns around. She gives me a petal-like, delicate smile and says clearly:

“Hii-chan. I’m looking forward to our overnight trip together, the three of us.”

Ugh!

I freeze, and they quickly leave. …The moonflower bracelet on her left wrist burns into my vision, refusing to fade.

Left behind, I collapse to my knees.

This is my recent worry.

…Lately, Yuu has been paying more attention to Enocchi and treating me coldly.

♣♣♣

Lunch break.

I’m in a spot behind the music room—basically the schoolyard. In the shade of the building, I’m eating lunch with Enomoto-san.

…Well, we’re really just eating lunch.

“Yuu-kun. Say ‘ah~’.”

“…Ah, ah~.”

Why am I feeding Enomoto-san lunch?

If anyone sees me here, I’ll be labeled as part of an eternal couple and never escape. I cover my face and mumble a plea.

“Enomoto-san. Please, have mercy…”

“No. Finish it.”

“First of all, what’s the reason? Is this some kind of humiliation play?”

Enomoto-san puffs out her chest and answers with a smug look.

“Shii-kun’s direct teaching: ‘Lunchtime ’Ah~♡’ Love-Love Level-Up Operation!’”

“The name is so lame…”

This is beyond disappointing.

Who came up with that? Well, it’s probably Makishima, but still. This is definitely a plan that includes me being uncomfortable. And, normally, it’s the other way around, right? Why am I the one feeding her?

As I hesitate, Enomoto-san pouts in dissatisfaction.

“Muu. I even picked a hidden spot so Yuu-kun wouldn’t feel embarrassed…”

“There’s still a limit, right? This is definitely going to be black history for a high school boy.”

Even if the name is lame, what we’re doing is just normal couple stuff.

No matter how cute Enomoto-san is… no, because she’s so cute, I might die. Honestly, just seeing Enomoto-san close her eyes and pout her lips makes me feel like I’m going to cough up blood. And if I catch a glimpse of her cleavage through her open summer uniform collar, my rationality might completely surrender to instinct.

Anyway, continuing this is bad. As I weakly resist, Enomoto-san shows me her phone.

“Yuu-kun. Are you sure you should be saying that?”

“Ugh…”

It’s a LINE chat. The messages I sent this morning on my way to school.

‘Enomoto-san’ ‘help’ ‘Himari ambushed me’ ‘Are you at school now?’

‘Please reply’ ‘Himari’s super fired up’ ‘She’s definitely going to pull a puhaha’ ‘This is too much for the morning’

‘She even brought up staying overnight’ ‘Help’ ‘I can’t do this’ ‘Himari’s too cute’ ‘I can’t stay just friends’ ‘I’ll do anything’ ‘Why are you ignoring me?’ ‘Please help’

The history of the SOS I sent Enomoto-san the moment I saw Himari this morning.

As thanks for saving me from that situation, I’m now doing things like feeding her.

“Here, say ‘ah~’.”

“Ugh…”

…I’m done for.

After emptying the lunchbox, Enomoto-san happily takes a break with afternoon tea. Her skin seems to have a healthy glow.

(I feel kind of… violated…)

I stare at the convenience store bread in my hand—still untouched—and cry silently. Maybe I’ll drink some Yoghurppe to calm down… but then my Yoghurppe is snatched away.

“Huh? What’s next?”

“Yuu-kun. No Yoghurppe while eating with me.”

“Eh? Why…?”

Instead, she hands me a bottle of afternoon tea, the same as hers. Then, with a smile that brooks no argument, she says:

“It’s not good to have the presence of another girl while you’re with me.”

“Another girl…?”

“After all, she’s my rival now.”

Enomoto-san lets out a “Heh” and pops a homemade cookie into her mouth. …The way she casually handles me is unfair.

She offers me a small bag of cookies and continues.

“If Hii-chan is so cute that you can’t stay just friends, why don’t you just confess?”

“Eh…? Enomoto-san, you’re saying that?”

“The fact that you’re asking me for help means you’re pretty desperate, don’t you think…?”

“Yeah…”

It’s such a straightforward argument that I have no rebuttal.

I cover my face with both hands and mumble excuses.

“Well, I’m really sorry, but I don’t have anyone else to talk to. I don’t have many close friends…”

“What about Shii-kun?”

“If I consult him, he’ll give me fake advice and mess with me on purpose.”

“True. …What about Hibari-san?”

“If I tell Hibari-san that I’m conscious of Himari, he’ll make me stamp a marriage registration form on the spot.”

“The people around Yuu-kun… are clearly weird.”

“I’m aware of it, so don’t say it out loud!”

By the way, Enomoto-san is also involved in this, right? I’m sorry to say this, but I think you’re quite a weirdo for liking someone like me.

Enomoto-san suddenly paused, placing her finger on her chin with a serious expression.

“So, I’m already an indispensable existence for Yuu-kun?”

“Uh, well? I guess if you put it that way, maybe…”

“Not your first choice, but someone you want to keep around just in case…?”

“That’s too harsh!?”

Even if you say something like that, I can’t argue against it!

Enomoto-san said casually.

“I’m joking. So, I’m already the only person Yuu-kun can consult with about anything, right?”

“W-well, I guess so…”

Enomoto-san’s jokes are incredibly hard to understand. At least change your expression from your usual cool demeanor.

“That used to be Hii-chan’s role, right?”

“Yeah? Ah, I guess so…”

“So, that means I’m now Yuu-kun’s best friend!!”

“Your interpretation is incredibly positive…”

But, as a condition, that’s true, isn’t it?

Until now, there was nothing I couldn’t tell Himari.

That’s why she was my best friend, but now that she’s been upgraded to someone I like, there are things I can’t tell her. What irony.

And Enomoto-san, it’s not very good to be happy about this and blush, saying “ehehe”…

The bell for the end of lunch break rings.

While we were talking, lunch break is almost over. I stuffed the rest of my sandwich into my mouth and washed it down with afternoon tea.

Enomoto-san also packed up her bento and stood up. Brushing off her skirt, she suddenly remembered something.

“By the way, Yuu-kun, do you want to go out with Hii-chan?”

“………”

I answered her question honestly.

“I don’t know…”

“Hmm?”

Enomoto-san shifted her weight back onto her heels.

“I like Himari, but I feel like I should prioritize my dream of opening a shop over romance. Especially since things have been so chaotic lately…”

Work and romance.

It’s obvious which is more important.

Our foundation is the dream of opening an accessory shop. To achieve that dream together, I can’t be the only one looking in a different direction.

And Enomoto-san’s response was harsh.

“Come to think of it, Yuu-kun, you’re the type to complicate things like this…”

She called me complicated…

As I stood there, feeling down, Enomoto-san laughed.

“But, I think it’s good. That means you want both your dream and romance, right? I like that honest side of you, Yuu-kun.”

“Ugh…”

Her straightforward gaze made me feel a bit guilty.

As I hesitated to respond, Enomoto-san clenched her fist.

“Besides, the more you and Hii-chan struggle, the more chances I have!”

This girl says such things with a really nice smile. I seriously admire Enomoto-san’s strength.

Finally, the bell signaling the end of lunch break rang.

I parted ways with Enomoto-san and headed to the classroom alone…

“……Hmm?”

I thought I saw Himari just now…

That light-colored hair, I couldn’t have mistaken it… But, if it was Himari, she would have called out to me.

♣♣♣

After school.

Finally, all the end-of-term test results were handed out.

Lastly, for math with Sasaki-sensei, I received a 73 on my test, and he said, “Damn. No make-up test this time,” sounding disappointed. …That teacher was probably expecting me to mess up again.

Then, after HR ended, I was getting ready to go home.

All that’s left is tomorrow’s closing ceremony, and then summer vacation starts.

…Just as I was thinking that, Himari suddenly hugged me from behind.

“Yuu~. After I finish taking care of the flowers, let’s go to AEON!”

“……!?”

I thought my heart would leap out of my chest.

Himari’s soft body and the sweet scent enveloped me. If it weren’t for my usual tolerance, I might have coughed up blood.

(Calm down, me! I’ve always been able to handle this kind of physical contact before… Well, actually, being able to handle it might be the weird part…)

By this time of day, I wouldn’t make a fool of myself like I did this morning. I took a deep breath and forced a stiff smile, gently removing Himari’s arms.

Suddenly having her body pulled away, Himari looked at me sullenly.

“Wh-what’s wrong…?”

“Nothing really…”

She turned away with a huff, clearly upset. …She’s been like this ever since she came back during lunch break.

“By the way, do you want to go to AEON? Is there something you want?”

“Oh, right. Summer vacation is almost here, so let’s go look at swimsuits.”

“Swimsuits!?”

“Whoa, that surprised you. Is that something to react so loudly to?”

Well, yeah!

You’re going swimsuit shopping with a guy you’re not even dating? What are you thinking… Oh, wait, we did this last year too. Come to think of it, what was I thinking last year?

What should I do…?

No, I have to go. If I refuse now, it’ll seem even more suspicious.

“…Can Enomoto-san come with us?”

“Huh? Why Enomoto?”

“Well, that’s because…”

It would be easier for me if two girls chose the swimsuits together.

Knowing Himari, she’ll probably play some naughty prank on me. I need a strategy for that.

As I was thinking, Himari looked at me sullenly again.

“…Yuu, you’ve been wanting to hang out with Enomoto a lot lately, haven’t you?”

“Uh…”

As I stumbled for words, Himari sighed.

“Well, whatever. We’ll probably invite Enomoto to hang out with us anyway.”

Then, for some reason, she poked me in the side playfully.

“Besides, Yuu, you’d rather see the breasts of the girl you first loved, right?”

“Wh-what are you talking about? Are you crazy?”

Well, if she’s going to misunderstand like that, it might work out for me.

I immediately went to invite Enomoto-san and headed to the advanced class’s classroom. As Himari and I walked down the hallway together, we saw Enomoto-san coming towards us.

She noticed us and ran over.

“Yuu-kun, Hii-chan. Hello.”

“Enomoto-san, hello. We’re going out to have some fun, so…”

Before I could finish inviting her, Enomoto-san’s expression clouded over.

“I have to go to the brass band club today, so I can’t make it to the gardening club.”

“Oh, I see…”

My plans were already falling apart, and I hesitated. Noticing this, Enomoto-san tilted her head cutely.

“Yuu-kun, what’s wrong?”

Before I could answer, Himari grinned and said something unnecessary.

“We were just talking about going to look at swimsuits for summer vacation. Actually, Yuu wanted to see Enomoto in a swimsuit, but he’s disappointed he can’t. Right?”

“Ah, Himari…!?”

I tried to stop her, but it was too late.

Enomoto-san repeated in a voice that seemed to echo from the depths of the earth.

“……Hii-chan and swimsuits?”

I felt a cold blade brush against my cheek…

Enomoto-san beckoned me over.

“Yuu-kun.”

“Y-yes…?”

She led me to a shadowy corner of the hallway and grabbed my head. Then, she squeezed with all her might!

(Owwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww!!)

This is the golden iron claw that can even make Himari cry!

As I was released from the blow that nearly made me pass out, I crouched down, holding my head. …I didn’t make a sound. Good job, me.

“Yuu-kun, you don’t want to see my swimsuit, right?”

“I-I’m sorry! I knew Himari would try something, so I wanted Enomoto-san’s help!”

“If you knew, then you shouldn’t go.”

“W-well, that’s because… a friend invited me to hang out…”

Enomoto-san’s gaze pierced me.

It felt like she was accusing me, saying, “After acting so innocent, you’re just like any other guy, huh?” …Yes. Honestly, I do want to see Himari’s swimsuit.

But come on, it’s normal for a guy to want to see the swimsuit of the girl he likes. I saw it last year and the year before, and it’s always a treat.

Having finished punishing me, Enomoto-san clapped her hands together, satisfied.

“Do your best on your own.”

“I’m sorry…”

Enomoto-san quickly went down the stairs.

When I returned to Himari, she looked at me worriedly.

“Y-Yuu, what’s wrong? I just felt a really evil presence.”

“It’s nothing. Let’s go…”

With a puzzled Himari, I headed to the flower bed.

♣♣♣

After taking care of the flower bed after school, we headed to AEON.

Upon arrival, we had dinner at the usual Indian curry shop, and then headed to the swimsuit section as Himari wished. With summer vacation approaching, the clothing section had significantly expanded.

Naturally, this area is off-limits to boys. However, there are men who are allowed to be there—the companions of the women.

Since I am Himari’s companion, it’s okay for me to be there.

Still, it’s quite awkward. Even though I usually hang out at the ladies’ accessory shop, this place is too much. Even though I’m not doing anything wrong, I feel like I’m being looked at like a suspicious person.

Himari hummed a tune happily… Lately, she’s been into Kanan Nishino too, just like Hibari-san.

Anyway, as Himari browsed the items, she asked me,

“Yuu, which one do you like?”

“I think I’ll go home after all… Ouch!”

“Hey, hey, hey. Don’t be such a downer.”

“S-stop pulling on my necktie! You’ll really strangle me!”

Since I couldn’t leave, I reluctantly decided to accompany her shopping.

Before coming to AEON, I thought I was a bit lucky, but now that I’m exposed to the unique atmosphere here, I suddenly feel like I’ve drawn the short straw.

“By the way, can’t you just choose for yourself? It’s not like you to be insecure about others’ opinions all of a sudden.”

“Hmm, well, I look good in anything, but…”

Himari picked up a yellow frilled bikini and held it against her chest.

“Since I’m buying it to show you, Yuu, shouldn’t it be one you like?”

“Uh… well, um…”

I froze for a moment.

That was a mistake. Himari grinned.

“Oh my, Yuu-kun, are you getting excited?”

“S-shut up. Seriously, stop it…”

“Pfft. Yuu, you’re so easy to tease. Come on, there are cute ones over here.”

She casually reached out her hand, but I quickly dodged it.

“………”

For a moment, I saw Himari’s eyes widen. Still, I pretended not to notice and put my hands in my pockets, heading in the direction Himari had indicated.

“This way? Oh, yeah, there are a lot of cute ones here.”

“……Mmm.”

I could feel her displeased gaze on my back.

Himari is the type who likes physical contact. She gets unhappy if she can’t touch when she wants to.

Normally, I would be happy about this, but right now, it’s too stimulating for me. I can manage to keep the conversation normal, but the touching is too much.

(As expected, I’m at an elementary school level when it comes to romance. I’m seriously about to cry…)

Come to think of it, the only time I’ve felt this way about someone of the opposite sex was back in elementary school with Enomoto-san…

Himari chose a few swimsuits. As expected, they were all quite to my liking. Specifically, I prefer cute ones that suit her over sexy ones.

I waited in front of the fitting room.

By the way, the moment I leave this spot, I transform from Himari’s companion into a suspicious person. I don’t need to leave here, but this is hell in its own way.

…The sound of rustling clothes stirs unwanted imaginations.

Come to think of it, something similar happened that night at Hibari Cram School. When Himari offered to wash my back in the bath at her house.

No good. The image of Hibari-san’s (handsome) naked body is invading my memories…

“Yuu, what are you agonizing about all by yourself?”

“……!?”

When I turned around, Himari was peeking out of the fitting room, showing only her face. She was holding the curtain to hide her body.

“Oh, are you done trying them on? Then let’s go home.”

“Aren’t you rushing a bit too much? Isn’t it a bit too early to go home?”

Himari sighed, “Haah.”

“Hey, Yuu, I want your opinion.”

“Oh, yeah… yeah?”

Oh right, that’s why we came here.

Finally, this moment had come. I’m super nervous. But for some reason, Himari didn’t open the curtain.

“Hey, Yuu?”

“What is it…?”

“You see, right now, I’m wearing something super risqué. Something I could never show anyone else♡”

“Huh? Not the ones you took in earlier?”

I silently asked with my eyes, “Like what, exactly…?” Then, Himari’s marine blue eyes sparkled.

“A string♪”

“Bwha!?”

I almost choked.

A string? Like a rope? A rope for a swimsuit?

No way, that can’t be right. Himari is just messing with me again.

“Y-you’re lying, right? There’s no way AEON would sell something that risqué…”

“Hmm, are you sure about that?”

“I’m sure. This is a place where families shop.”

Himari shook the curtain. I thought she was going to open it and instinctively tensed up… But it was a feint.

No way she’s wearing it. It’s just her usual “gotcha” prank.

Even though I know it rationally, the slightest possibility makes me nervous. If it were true… I would definitely die. My heart wouldn’t be able to handle it.

The air was tense.

Just as I gulped, Himari grinned and started to open the curtain—

“S-sorry! I’m going home first!”

“Hey… Yuu!?”

I chickened out.

I ran away from the scene before the curtain could open, without looking back.

♣♣♣

I rode my bike straight home as fast as I could.

I feel sick from running so hard. The shrimp curry I had for dinner is about to come back up…

I wonder if I did something wrong to Himari. But then again, it’s her fault. Is she an exhibitionist? I’ve always thought so, but she definitely has that kind of intention. She wouldn’t do this in front of other guys, but it’s not good to pull stunts like that outside.

Eventually, I saw our convenience store. When I got to the house across the street, I parked my bike and went inside.

(…Huh. The light in the living room is on?)

I could hear Saku-neesan talking.

It should be time for her to be at the convenience store, though. As I was thinking that, I noticed a pair of unfamiliar shoes at the entrance.

They were expensive-looking women’s platform sandals. They were beautifully decorated. My sister usually wears flip-flops, so we must have a guest.

…I should quietly go back to my room. I don’t want to upset Saku-neesan.

As I was about to sneak past the living room, Saku-neesan called out to me.

“Idiot brother. Say something if you’re home.”

“Huh?”

I reacted strangely.

Saku-neesan calling me out is a first, isn’t it? I had a bad feeling but showed my face in the living room. Saku-neesan was relaxing with a bottle of barley tea on the table.

“I-I’m home. Do we have a guest?”

“Yes. Say hello properly.”

Why?

Usually, she gets mad at me for doing that and says, “Go to your room, idiot brother.”

With a slight feeling of dissatisfaction, I entered the living room. Then I saw the guest and… froze for a moment.

Sitting at the table was an incredibly beautiful woman. What made her different was… her aura, or presence. She had an overwhelming charisma.

She had long, wavy hair, a small face like an egg, and distinct features that made her look like a doll. Saku-neesan is beautiful too, but this woman is on a different level.

She was wearing a summer dress with lots of frills and decorations. It was a cute design, but it looked mature on her. There was a large-brimmed hat next to her. Everything looked expensive and high-quality.

(She’s so beautiful. She has a sophisticated, urban vibe. She’s so polished… She’d look great in accessories… Hmm?)

Something clicked. I should know her, but… I can’t quite place her. Her reddish hair and sharp eyes…

As I was thinking, she smiled at me. It was a soft, gentle smile. She spoke to me.

“Natsume Yuu-kun. Nice to meet you~♪”

“N-nice to meet you… Wait, you know my name?”

Did I introduce myself? Or did Saku-neesan tell her?

As I was confused, Saku-neesan sighed in exasperation.

“Idiot brother. Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten the face of your benefactor?”

“Benefactor…?”

That was a strange thing to say.

It’s not something you’d normally hear in a high schooler’s daily life.

I had no idea what she meant. My benefactor? I don’t remember being saved from any life-threatening situations, and there weren’t any teachers like her in middle school…

But her next words made sense.

“I’m Enomoto Kureha~☆”

“……”

For a moment, I thought about a lot of things.

That’s right. I’ve seen her before. During my middle school cultural festival, Himari introduced me to a reader model through Hibari-san to help sell accessories. She promoted my accessories on her Twitter.

Wait, does that mean… this person is…

“Enomoto-san’s older sister!?”

“You finally noticed. Yes, I’m Rion-chan’s big sister.”

That makes sense. Now that she mentions it, I can see the resemblance. This soft aura… but her features are sharp, just like Enomoto-san. And not just her face, but… her chest too. Enomoto-san is already impressive, but her sister is even more so. The world is a big place…

As I stood there in shock, Kureha-san spoke.

“Shinji-kun told me about you. You’re friends with Rion too, right? Thank you for always taking care of my little sister~♪”

“Oh, no, she’s the one taking care of me… Wait, Shinji? Makishima-san?”

“Yes. He’s our neighbor, so when he helped me with my luggage from the airport, he told me about you too~☆”

“Yuu~chan…”

I was more surprised by that nickname than her relationship with Makishima.

Well, it’s fine. Come to think of it, Enomoto-san calls me “Yuu-kun” too, so I guess it runs in the family.

…But she’s different from what I imagined.

I heard she doesn’t get along with Enomoto-san and that she and Hibari-san are like cats and dogs. I’m not doubting that, but I thought she’d be more… mean-looking.

“Ah~! Yuu~chan, you’re thinking something like ‘I thought she’d be meaner,’ aren’t you~?”

I froze.

She read my mind. Is she a mind reader? A ninja? And why is she so cute when she’s mad? She puffs out her cheeks like a balloon, and I want to poke them. And when she says “Hmph!” her chest bounces… it’s too much.

I was overwhelmed by her presence, and Saku-neesan sighed.

“Idiot brother. You’re too easy to read.”

“Ugh…”

Oh, right…

I couldn’t argue with that.

Then Saku-neesan said to Kureha-san, who was saying embarrassing things like “Yuu~chan is so cute~”,

“Kureha. You have business with this idiot brother, right?”

“Oh, right~♪ I almost forgot.”

She tapped her head lightly, and even I was impressed by her cuteness.

It’s the Heisei era, right? As expected of a popular model, she’s very confident. She reminds me more of Himari than Enomoto-san. If I had to describe her, she’s an annoying-cute type of girl.

But what does she want with me?

She’s a famous model who’s often on magazine covers. She helped me out at the cultural festival, but we don’t have a direct connection.

I thought she was here to see Saku-neesan. I’m not sure, but I think they were high school classmates. And she has some kind of history with Hibari-san, so I thought she was here for that.

(Maybe it’s about accessories?)

That’s the first thing that comes to mind.

Maybe she saw Himari’s Instagram and wants me to make something for her.

If that’s the case… I’d be really happy. It would be a big confidence boost to be recognized by someone successful in the industry.

(But it can’t be that simple… Or maybe it’s about Enomoto-san?)

If she heard about me from Makishima, he might have said something unnecessary. Especially since, well, during lunch, Enomoto-san jokingly said something that could be taken the wrong way. It could look like I’m keeping her on the side, and as her sister, she might not be able to ignore that.

Heaven and hell…

I was nervous, waiting for her judgment.

But what Kureha-san said, with a smile, was something completely different.

“I want your Himari-chan~☆”

…I was so shocked, even I couldn’t react.

♢♢♢

Suddenly, Yuu ran away… My reaction was swift. I hailed a taxi in front of AEON and immediately returned to school.

It was past 7 PM… With the days getting longer, the sports clubs were still practicing.

I headed towards the tennis club, which was practicing with a net set up in the corner of the field, and spoke to the advisor, Sasaki-sensei, who was coaching the members.

“Sasaki-sensei♡”

“Inuzuka? You’re still here?”

“Yes. Can I borrow Makishima-kun for a bit…?”

I gave him a sparkling angelic smile. Exhausted from coaching, Sasaki-sensei was overwhelmed and readily called Makishima-kun for me.

Makishima-kun looked puzzled and said,

“Himari-chan? What’s going on… Whoa!?”

“You rotten womanizer. Come here for a sec.”

“W-wait. Wait a minute! Your voice is too serious, it’s scary!!”

I grabbed him by the collar and dragged him to the side of the gardening club’s flower bed, then tossed him down. He rolled nicely and got up, covered in mud from his tennis gear.

“Wh-what’s going on? I’m in the middle of practice…”

“Shut up. This is more important.”

I snatched Makishima-kun’s racket and slapped my palm with it. I looked down at the universally acknowledged scumbag.

Come to think of it, for the past four months, he’s been stirring up trouble. He must be behind this too.

“Yuu’s been acting weird lately, right? You must have put some stupid ideas in his head again.”

“Huh? Yuu’s acting weird? Like what?”

“He’s obviously avoiding me. Did you tell him something stupid?”

“No, I haven’t done anything. I did make a deal with that person when I picked her up from the airport, but I wasn’t aiming for that kind of result…”

“You did something after all, didn’t you!?”

“Wait! A tennis racket is not for hitting people!”

Makishima-kun panicked and grabbed a pot of chocolate cosmos from the side of the flower bed. He used it as a shield and laughed, “You can’t hit me now, hahaha!”

“Wow, Makishima-kun, you’re so cowardly!”

“How dare you…”

“That’s Yuu’s flower! It has nothing to do with this, so give it back!”

“Fine. I’ll trade it for the racket!”

Tch.

I exchanged the tennis racket he was holding hostage for the pot of chocolate cosmos. Makishima-kun checked it carefully and sighed, “Phew.”

“I’m always scheming, but it’s not at that stage yet. Besides, I don’t think Himari-chan is being avoided.”

“That’s what you think, but sometimes he acts weird. He won’t hold my hand, and he won’t let me tease him at all. Just now, when we went to AEON to look at swimsuits, he ran away when I teased him a little…”

“…I see?”

Makishima-kun grinned.

“I see. So while she was trying on a swimsuit, you said, ‘Actually, I’m wearing a string bikini under this,’ and he ran away, huh?”

“You weren’t there, were you!?”

“Uh… It was a joke, but did you really wear something like that? That’s pretty perverted, isn’t it?”

“Of course not! I wouldn’t wear something like that!”

Besides, AEON wouldn’t sell something that risqué. I was planning to surprise Yuu by being in my uniform and saying, “Gotcha!”

“And he’s been acting weird with Enomoto-san too. Lately, they’ve been having secret meetings during lunch break, leaving me out.”

“Hahaha. That’s simple. Yuu has finally given up on Himari-chan and switched to Rin-chan. Good for him. You should celebrate your friend’s new beginning.”

“…Do you want to be a hostage again?”

“J-just kidding. You have no sense of humor…”

Makishima-kun hid the racket behind his back and slowly backed away.

“Well, if Himari-chan and Yuu’s relationship is on the rocks, that’s fine by me. It just makes my plan easier.”

“…What are you planning this time? If you break Yuu’s accessories again, I won’t forgive you.”

“There’s no need for such petty tricks. Our battle with Himari-chan is entering its final stage.”

Then Makishima-kun told me something completely unexpected.

“Kureha-san has returned to this town.”

“……!?”

I gasped at his words.

I held the potted plant tightly.

Chocolate cosmos.

A sweet-smelling flower with a mysterious charm.

I think its flower language is… “The end of love.”

♣♣♣

I gasped at Kureha-san’s words.

“H-Himari… you want her?”

I repeated it, but it made no sense.

“What do you mean…?”

Kureha-san explained calmly, “You know, Yuu-chan, Himari-chan promised to join our agency. Around last year’s Golden Week, I think.”

“Was that your agency…?”

“Yes. I was the one who brought the scouting offer to the president. I told him, ‘There’s an incredibly cute girl among my juniors, she’ll definitely become a great talent if we train her.’”

“I… I see…”

It made sense now.

No matter how many followers Himari had on Instagram, it seemed unlikely that an agency would reach out to her. Especially with such favorable terms… It must have been Kureha-san pulling strings behind the scenes.

…But something didn’t add up.

“I heard Himari turned down the offer…”

“Yes, she did. She pretended to accept at first, then backed out halfway.”

I remembered that.

When Himari and I had our first big fight, she showed me the email exchange. She had initially agreed to the offer.

That incident was partly my fault. I apologized sincerely.

“I’m sorry for the trouble…”

“It’s okay. I’m not mad. It cost some money, but I prepared everything on my own, so I covered the expenses myself. I don’t mind at all that Himari-chan tricked me after I trusted her.”

“Ugh…”

She was really emphasizing it. She’s definitely holding a grudge…

Saku-neesan was… oh, never mind. She’s completely engrossed in the TV. There’s no way she’d help me.

“So, let’s call it even for now. This time, I’ve brought a business proposal for you, Yuu-chan.”

“A business proposal? For me?”

Kureha-san clapped her hands together.

I was about to speak, but she interrupted me with an even brighter voice.

“I want you to persuade Himari-chan to join our agency, Yuu-chan♪”

“Persuade Himari?”

Her soft smile seemed to change somehow.

No, her smile hadn’t changed. I just finally noticed it.

Her expression hadn’t changed at all. She maintained a perfect, calm smile without moving a single eyebrow.

It was too perfect… like a doll’s smile.

“I want you to convince Himari-chan to join our agency. As her best friend, I’m sure your words will persuade her.”

“That’s…!”

“Is it a no~?”

“Of course it is! Himari and I… we…”

Kureha-san clapped her hands again.

Startled, I stopped talking…

“I heard from Shinji-kun that Himari-chan is doing Instagram for your sake. To help you achieve your dream of opening an accessory shop together, right?”

“Y-yes! So, Himari…”

I answered eagerly.

Then Kureha-san burst into laughter.

“Ahaha. That’s impossible! Trying to open an accessory shop in this small town is just a pipe dream!”

“……!?”

The sudden malice in her words caught me off guard.

My mind went blank with anger. As I was about to retort, Saku-neesan elbowed me in the side!

“Ouch! …S-Saku-neesan!!”

“Idiot brother. Don’t get worked up over such a trivial provocation.”

Saku-neesan’s words brought me back to my senses.

She was right. I couldn’t lose my cool here. I didn’t know what Kureha-san’s intentions were, but I needed to stay calm.

Kureha-san chuckled, “You two get along so well~” and pulled something out from under the table.

“Of course, I won’t ask you to do it for free. If you cooperate, I’ll give you this.”

She presented a leather attaché case, about the size of my school bag.

Wondering what it was, I watched as Kureha-san opened it.

It was filled with stacks of cash.

Saku-neesan slammed the case shut. With a vein popping on her temple, she yelled at Kureha-san.

“Are you crazy!? Don’t carry something like this around so casually!”

“But~, I couldn’t set up a checking account for the check~”

“You could have sent a document or something! Do you have any common sense!?”

“Muu~. Sakura-chan, you’re even more naggy than in high school! So annoying!”

“Shut up! You’re an adult now, so act like it!”

My mind went blank.

The intense scene unfolding before me left me speechless, my mouth twitching. Finally, I managed to ask,

“This money… what is it for?”

Kureha-san casually replied,

“It’s obvious, isn’t it? It’s the price for Himari-chan.”

“……!?”

I instinctively slammed my hand on the table at Kureha-san’s words.

“Are you serious!? Himari is not an object to be bought!”

But Kureha-san tilted her head in genuine confusion.

“That’s obvious. Do I look like I see Himari-chan as a pet, Yuu-chan?”

“Of course not! That’s why talking about trading her for money is…”

“But, Yuu-chan, you and Himari-chan need money to make your dreams come true, right? I’m just offering to front the money she’ll earn in the future.”

“That’s not the point…!”

“Then what is the point?”

I stumbled over my words.

What is the point? Is she serious?

Overwhelmed by a sense of unease, I finally managed to respond.

“No, wait. Our goal is to open a shop with our own efforts. We can’t be satisfied just by receiving money…”

“Hmm~. Yuu-chan, your logic sounds like an excuse.”

Kureha-san furrowed her brow and pursed her lips in thought.

Then, as if she had an idea, she brightly smiled and clapped her hands.

“I got it! How about I offer you a different model instead?”

“…What?”

Kureha-san took out her smartphone.

She quickly navigated through it and finally tapped the screen.

Simultaneously, Saku-neesan’s smartphone rang. She looked at it and sighed deeply.

“Kureha, using me as a messenger… really?”

“But~, I don’t know Yuu-chan’s ID~”

Saku-neesan forwarded the message to my smartphone.

Wondering what it was, I opened LINE to find several blog addresses and Instagram accounts.

Each one belonged to a cute young woman, all labeled as models, ranging from teens to early twenties.

Then Kureha-san said with the same smile,

“Here you go. These are some junior models from our agency. They all have work experience, so they can replace Himari-chan. You can choose whoever you like.”

“………”

I was speechless. Is this what it means to be at a loss for words?

Choose whoever I like? To replace Himari? What does that even mean? Do these women even know about this? Why is she doing this?

I was completely bewildered by her incomprehensible actions. I looked to Saku-neesan for help, and she had a pained expression, as if enduring a headache.

“Kureha, you’ve always been like this…”

“Huh~? Did I do something weird~?”

“Explaining won’t help. But what you’re doing is definitely not getting through to my idiot brother.”

“Hmm~. If you don’t want money or models, what should I do~?”

It finally dawned on me.

(Is she serious about this…?)

At first, I thought she was joking, but I was wrong.

Our values are completely misaligned. What am I not communicating to Kureha-san?

…Probably this.

“Kureha-san, my dream is to open a shop with Himari. Getting money from you or having you introduce me to other models won’t change that.”

“………”

For a moment,

Kureha-san’s expression turned eerily blank. It felt like a bullet had pierced through me—but the next instant, she was back to her doll-like smile.

She clapped her hands and cheerfully said,

“Oh, I see~. So, Himari-chan is really important to you~♪”

“………”

Despite her cheerful demeanor, I felt a cold sweat running down my back.

What was that? It felt like a killing intent… Similar to when Hibari-san gets seriously angry. Yet, she remained calm, which made it even more terrifying.

“C-could I get some water…?”

My throat was parched. I stood up and filled a cup with water from the kitchen sink. After drinking it, I calmed down a bit.

Behind me, Saku-neesan spoke up.

“Kureha, why are you so fixated on Himari-chan?”

“Is that weird~?”

“Yes, it is. Suddenly coming back and offering such a large sum of money is strange. You dated Hibari-kun, but were you that close with Himari-chan?”

“Hmm~? We exchanged contact info, but never actually met~”

“Then why? Even if this is part of your job, it’s beyond the scope of a modeling assignment.”

Kureha-san replied cheerfully,

“Himari-chan is just so cute~♡”

“………”

Saku-neesan furrowed her brow.

Kureha-san continued, almost feverishly,

“Being cute is a talent. Just like how fast runners become athletes, or those with musical talent become musicians. If used correctly, it can be a powerful tool. But right now, Himari-chan is wasting her talent for someone else’s lesser dream. I want to save her from that.”

“………”

Saku-neesan fell silent.

With a stern expression—though not much different from usual—she pondered for a moment before simply saying, “I see…” and ending the conversation.

I couldn’t hold back any longer and raised my voice.

“Are you saying I’m crushing Himari’s talent…!?”

“Yes~. Himari-chan doesn’t belong as a poster girl for some small-town shop. Your silly promise is holding her back from making the right choices for her future. And~…”

Kureha-san smiled beautifully and said,

“Honestly, Yuu-chan’s accessories are nothing special~. I saw them on Instagram, but they’re just like any other handmade accessories you’d find on auction sites. It’s a waste for Himari-chan to dedicate her life to something so mediocre.”

“……!?”

I was about to snap back, but Saku-neesan elbowed me hard in the side!

“Saku-neesan!?”

“Idiot brother, calm down. If you let her words get to you, you’ll regret it.”

Then Kureha-san blinked in surprise.

“Sakura-chan is so kind~♪ Always looking out for your little brother~”

“That’s not it. I’m worried about Himari-chan.”

“Sure, sure~. You’re just as stubborn as you were in high school~. …Oh, by the way~, Sakura-chan, remember that guy you liked back then? He was just like Yuu-chan, chasing after a dream…”

In that instant, Saku-neesan’s eyes flashed.

She quickly covered Kureha-san’s mouth and grabbed her by the collar.

“Do you want to be tied up and thrown into the sea right now?”

“Yaaan~♪ Threats are so primitive~☆”

Kureha-san, now free, turned to me.

“Yuu-chan, are you still going to hold Himari-chan back?”

“That’s not… Our dream is…”

“Is Himari-chan really cooperating with you? Even so, that doesn’t mean you should abandon rational judgment.”

“My accessories… are made for Himari…”

“If the quality changes with the model, that’s unprofessional. Besides, during the GW on Instagram, it was our Rion who modeled for you, right?”

“That was just once…”

“If you could do it once, you can do it anytime. I’ll take Himari-chan, so you can work with Rion instead.”

“But I want to work with Himari…”

Kureha-san clapped her hands.

I flinched, and she smiled brightly.

“Yuu-chan, you can’t have it all. Those who chase two hares catch neither. If you’re chasing a dream, you should focus on one thing and let go of anything that gets in the way.”

“Wh-what do you mean by ‘gets in the way’…?”

Kureha-san answered without hesitation.

“Your hidden feelings for Himari-chan, perhaps~?”

“……!?”

Kureha-san continued with a tone that implied she knew everything.

“Yuu-chan, you’re not refusing to hand over Himari-chan because she’s your business partner, are you? It’s because you like her, isn’t it?”

“That’s not… true…”

“There’s no need to hide it. In May, you decided to give up on your accessories and go to Tokyo with Himari-chan, right? Shinji-kun told me all about it.”

Kureha-san leaned in closer.

She gently tilted my chin up with her fingers.

“So, what will it be?”

“What… do you mean?”

“If you decide to live for your feelings for Himari-chan, I’ll take her with me. I’ll introduce her to work and make sure you two can be together.”

She flicked my nose with her index finger.

“But you have to give up on your accessories. Holding onto past dreams will only get in the way of Himari-chan’s future.”

“………”

I was in shock, and Kureha-san sighed as if she had expected this.

“You can’t even answer right away?”

She seemed to take my silence as confirmation of her suspicions.

“Either way, you’re both just enjoying your youth and not seriously pursuing your dreams.”

She struck at the core of our relationship.

“Saying you’ll ‘never be apart’ is just selfish. Are you really willing to sacrifice Himari-chan’s talent for your own desires? Is that true friendship?”

I couldn’t say anything.

True friendship?

Does letting Himari go mean that?

I bit my lip. What Kureha-san was saying didn’t feel right, but I couldn’t find the words to argue.

This really is a chance.

An opportunity like this won’t come again. If I cooperate with Kureha-san, I could open the shop right after graduation. That’s what we’ve always wanted.

And if I think about what’s best for Himari, maybe Kureha-san is right.

“I can’t do anything on my own.”

Ever since middle school, Himari has been saying this like a mantra.

She thinks she’s only cute and can’t do anything else. That’s why she finds meaning in helping me with my accessories.

But what if that’s not true?

If Himari can achieve something greater on her own than helping me with my shop, then maybe I should support that.

“That’s enough!”

Suddenly, a loud voice interrupted, and someone entered the living room.

Who is it?

No, I already know.

The only person who can save me in a pinch is always…

(Himari…!!)

…or so I thought, but instead, a handsome man with black hair stood there with a brilliant smile.

“Kureha-kun. Don’t you dare lay a finger on Yuu-kun!”

It was Hibari-san.

His crisp suit was impeccable, even though it was already evening. He looked at me and flashed a sparkling white smile. …Wait, did his teeth actually sparkle? How does that even work?

Hibari-san put his arm around my shoulder and stood protectively in front of Kureha-san.

“Yuu-kun, don’t worry. I’m here now, so you’re safe!”

“Uh, why are you here? Don’t you have work?”

“Hah. Himari called me, so I rushed over! Don’t worry, I had an important meeting, but I delegated it to my junior.”

“That doesn’t sound reassuring at all…”

Just like last time at the Hibari Cram School, I felt bad for that junior.

But Himari was nowhere to be seen…

“Oh, Himari is on her way here with Rion-kun by taxi. We’re racing against time, so I couldn’t pick them up. They should be here any moment.”

“I see…”

While I was still processing this, Hibari-san pointed dramatically at Kureha-san.

“Kureha-kun! You’ve been causing trouble for my Yuu-kun, haven’t you?”

“Oh, not at all. I simply came to discuss business as equals.”

“Ha. Forcing your one-sided ideas onto someone is not a discussion. A true negotiation seeks a mutually beneficial outcome. Besides…”

Hibari-san held up the attaché case and pushed it back towards Kureha-san.

“Targeting Yuu-kun was a mistake. As long as I’m here, nothing will come between Yuu-kun and Himari’s friendship.”

“………”

Kureha-san’s expression darkened.

A quiet anger seemed to rise behind her, but she casually brushed her hair back and returned to her doll-like smile.

She sighed softly and took out her smartphone.

On the screen was a video of someone dancing. I couldn’t hear the audio or see clearly, but it looked like someone was moving rhythmically.

“Wan-chan always puts on a brave face, doesn’t he?”

“……!?”

In an instant, Hibari-san’s face paled.

He suddenly started trembling and dropped to his knees, sweating profusely. He pounded the floor with his fist in frustration.

“Y-Y-Yuu-kun, I-I’m sorry, I m-m-might not be able to help you after all…”

“Hibari-san!?”

Kureha-san triumphantly declared,

“If you don’t want this embarrassing high school dance video leaked online, you’ll cooperate, won’t you?”

“N-no, you can’t! That has nothing to do with this!”

“Hibari-kun, you have nothing to do with this scouting, right?”

“Y-yes, that’s true, but…!?”

Actually, as her brother, he’s very much involved.

In fact, I’ve always suspected that Hibari-san doesn’t think of Himari as family.

“Hey, Saku-neesan, what kind of video is that?”

“……Exes always have skeletons in their closets.”

It was just a silly quarrel after all.

Ignoring our incredulous stares, Hibari-san maintained his composure and wiped the sweat from his brow.

He seemed ready for a fight, taking off his suit jacket.

“If that’s how it’s going to be, I’ll have to use force. I’ll take that smartphone from you!”

“I knew you’d say that.”

In that moment, Kureha-san tucked the smartphone into her cleavage. She emphasized her presence and smiled smugly.

“Hibari-kun, who swore never to touch a three-dimensional woman, can’t touch a woman inappropriately, can he?”

Wow, that’s low…

Even Hibari-san was visibly shaken. This was probably his one weakness. The fact that this was his weakness was strange in itself, but… never mind. Some things are beyond my understanding.

“……Yuu-kun, do you know the manga ‘Rurouni Kenshin’?”

“Ah, yes. It’s a great action series with realistic fight scenes.”

“My favorite part of the original manga is when Himura Kenshin breaks his vow of ‘not killing’ to protect the blacksmith’s son. The resolve to sacrifice oneself for a small life… it moved me deeply as a child.”

And with that, Hibari-san’s face transformed into a look of determination.

“I, too, will become a demon for Yuu-kun’s sake…!!”

“Um, just to be clear, you’re saying you’re going to touch a woman’s chest, right? Please don’t, that’s definitely not okay…”

With tears streaming down his face, Hibari-san approached Kureha-san, who was now visibly terrified. I mean, anyone would be creeped out by this.

“In that case…!”

Kureha-san took the smartphone from her cleavage and threw it to Saku-neesan.

“Sakura-chan, catch!☆”

“No way. I’m not getting involved in this.”

Oh no!

The smartphone Saku-neesan batted away fell behind the sofa. In an instant, Hibari-san dove for it with lightning speed. His reflexes and agility from his college rugby days as the ‘Fang Wolf’ were still intact!

With the retrieved smartphone in hand, Hibari-san coolly declared victory.

“Kureha-kun, with this, your trump card is crushed.”

The smartphone screen showed Hibari-san’s embarrassing past, but I decided it was best not to look too closely. It seemed pretty bad, but I didn’t want to pry too much.

But it wasn’t over yet.

As Hibari-san reveled in his victory, Kureha-san smirked at him. Between her fingers, she held countless smartphones. Each one played the same embarrassing video.

“Sorry~. I have 20 smartphones for work~☆”

“You tricked me!?”

Hibari-san fell to his knees in despair.

“Y-Y-Yuu-kun, I-I’m sorry, I m-m-might not be able to help you after all…”

“Hibari-san!?”

“Saku-neesan, isn’t Hibari-san the type to pull stunts like this?”

“In high school, he wasn’t like this… But maybe returning to his childish ways isn’t so bad.”

As I stood there in shock, Saku-neesan turned up the TV volume and sighed.

“You two seem to get along so well. Why don’t you just make up?”

Hibari-san and Kureha-san both protested simultaneously.

“That’s impossible!”

“No way~☆”

“Well, if you’re willing to apologize for everything you’ve done, I might consider it.”

“If you hand over all your family’s assets and pledge lifelong servitude, I might think about it~♪”

Saku-neesan sighed, “Well, that’s not happening,” and turned off the TV. She took a sip of her barley tea in the now-silent living room.

“At least we know you two can’t resolve this by talking. Grow up, both of you.”

“No way. I don’t want to hear that from you, Sakura-kun. You’re still hung up on your high school crush…”

Before Hibari-san could finish, Saku-neesan struck him in the side with a swift blow! He fell behind the sofa, groaning in pain.

“That’s for what you did earlier. No mercy this time.”

“O-ouch… That was brutal…”

Saku-neesan then turned her gaze to Kureha-san.

“Kureha, considering your past, it’s understandable why you’re so fixated on Himari-chan. You want to save her from wasting her talent, just like you did. But forcing your views on others isn’t the way to go.”

Kureha-san listened silently, her expression somewhat childlike and sullen.

“But I can’t agree with your methods. Himari-chan doesn’t have a clear goal like you did back then. Forcing your ideals on her won’t help.”

“………”

Kureha-san sighed deeply.

“Well, I guess asking you to mediate was a mistake. You always talk me out of things.”

She then turned to me with a smile that was no longer friendly but calculating.

“I’ve changed my mind~♪”

“………”

Changed her mind?

Kureha-san clapped her hands and said brightly,

“Actually, I was planning to make a deal and leave, but Sakura-kun made a good point. I shouldn’t interfere directly.”

“What are you planning to do…?”

I asked warily, and Kureha-san smiled sweetly.

“If you and Hibari-kun are going to interfere with my plans for Himari-chan, I’ll have to eliminate that obstacle first. Once that’s done, Himari-chan will have no reason to stay in this town.”

She leaned across the table, her beautiful face close to mine. Her cold smile sent a chill down my spine.

“Yuu-chan, how about a little competition~?”

“Competition…?”

Kureha-san nodded enthusiastically.

“This summer vacation, create your best accessories. If you can make something that truly impresses me, something that makes me want to bow down in admiration, I’ll reconsider my plans for Himari-chan.”

“……!?”

My heart raced with a mix of excitement and dread.

A direct challenge from a professional in the industry. For a moment, I forgot about Himari’s situation, feeling a surge of determination.

“Kureha-kun, wait! This is a matter between you and me. Involving Yuu-kun is…”

Hibari-san tried to intervene, but Kureha-san cut him off.

“Is that okay with you? If things stay as they are, Himari-chan will end up leaving with one of us anyway.”

“What do you mean?”

“Remember, I told Yuu-chan earlier. I’ve already paid Himari-chan’s preparation fees for the agency. Can a high school student like Himari-chan afford to repay that debt?”

“N-no way!?”

Hibari-san was speechless.

Kureha-san continued, “Even without a formal contract, the emails exchanged can serve as evidence. Our agency’s lawyers are excellent. The outcome is clear.”

“………”

Saku-neesan sighed, “Kureha, you’re using this debt as leverage to force your will on Himari-chan.”

“Well, I have to make use of my investments~. I can’t just waste money on useless things~.”

…This person is ruthless, despite her cute appearance.

Even Hibari-san was visibly shaken, clenching his fist so hard his knuckles turned white.

“Kureha-kun, you’re despicable. Using my weakness against me…”

“Of course~. I know all about your fears, ex-boyfriend~♪”

Kureha-san turned back to me with a cold smile.

“The only one who can save Himari-chan now is you, Yuu-chan. Doesn’t that make you want to try your best~?”

“………”

Her words offered a glimmer of hope, but her eyes held a chilling confidence.

(She has no intention of letting me win.)

Strangely, this only fueled my determination.

I realized I had been complacent, relying on the praise of those around me. But did I truly deserve that praise? That doubt had always lingered.

Last month, Saku-neesan pointed out that my accessories had a low repeat purchase rate. They were even broken by school students. Could I truly call myself a creator if strangers didn’t recognize my worth?

Did my accessories truly have the value that Himari was willing to dedicate her life to?

I felt a strong urge to prove myself.

“If I win, will you forgive Himari’s debt?”

Kureha-san looked surprised for a moment, then smiled gleefully.

“Oh, how ambitious~! I didn’t think you had it in you. Fine, if you win, I’ll forgive Himari-chan’s debt and cancel the scouting offer. But if I win, you’ll support Himari-chan’s career with the agency~.”

“Understood. I accept your challenge.”

Hibari-san nodded silently in agreement. Saku-neesan sighed and poured the rest of the barley tea into her mouth.

Kureha-san cheerfully picked up a large carry case from the corner of the living room.

“The theme is ‘Summer Memories.’ Deadline is right after the Obon festival. I’ll visit again around that time. For today, I’ll leave before Himari and Rion arrive~♪”

With that, she left, humming a tune.

Himari and Enomoto-san arrived five minutes later, finding us in a state of tense anticipation.