Chapter II | “Only Looking at You”

♣♣♣

Himari Inuzuka, who had just arrived at my place, let out a shrill voice after hearing the explanation of the situation.

“Huh!? What’s this about a challenge!?”

“Well, it’s just how things turned out…”

Kureha-san was already gone.

Enomoto-san, who had arrived with Himari, gritted her teeth and slammed the table.

“…She got away. I was planning to drag her in front of Mom this time.”

“Enomoto-san’s hatred for her sister is way too extreme…”

Himari turned her gaze toward Hibari-san.

“Wait, that whole thing was definitely Onii-chan’s fault, wasn’t it!?”

That Hibari-san was leisurely drinking tea with Saku-neesan. He looked completely relaxed. I’d heard they were friends, but isn’t this the first time I’ve seen the two of them together like this?

“I won’t make excuses for that. But, Himari, we needed a reason to make Kureha-kun give up on you.”

“No, no. If I just don’t go to Tokyo, this whole thing wouldn’t have happened, right? There was no need to go picking fights like that…”

“Can you pay off the financial debt you racked up during Golden Week right now?”

“Ugh… But, that was Onii-chan’s…”

“That’s your personal debt. The Inuzuka family won’t be involved in this at all.”

“You’re a devil! A demon!”

Himari tried to seek help, but there was nothing anyone could do about this. Even if we tried to cover it from the “you” activity funds, it probably wouldn’t be enough.

“Saku-neesan, what kind of person is Kureha-san? She’s trying to trade people like they’re objects, and I just can’t understand her…”

“Hmm? Well, it’s not that complicated. To put it simply, she’s like a robot.”

“A robot?”

“Her goal comes first. That girl has a dream of running her own agency, and she’s the type to cut everything else out as mere pawns to achieve it.”

“Her own agency…”

“That’s right, just like you. But, it’s better not to think about getting along with Kureha. She’s the complete opposite of you in terms of how she sees the world.”

Saku-neesan opened a package of sweets labeled “Chocolat Tree.” She must have taken it out of a Haneda Airport plastic bag, so it was probably a souvenir from Kureha-san.

“What do you mean by ‘the complete opposite of me’?”

It was a phrase I didn’t quite understand, but Himari and Enomoto-san seemed to get it, going “Ah…”

Saku-neesan continued to explain while munching on the Milky Cheese Chocolat Kureha-san had left behind.

“You work hard for the sake of people who show you kindness, right? To put it simply, like the fans of your accessories or Himari-chan and the others who support you.”

“Isn’t that normal?”

“Kureha is the opposite. She works hard to prove her detractors wrong. You could call it her ‘Absolutely Crush the Anti’s Policy.’ She’s obsessed with those who don’t acknowledge her methods, and she can only feel her own success by crushing them.”

“What the heck. That’s so unhealthy…”

“But, people like that do exist. And when that kind of negative emotion is channeled by someone who works hard, it becomes a terrifying destructive force. Kureha has actually succeeded, so you can’t deny her methods.”

The others in the room also wore somber expressions, staying silent. It seemed like everyone agreed with the explanation. …Kureha-san’s Milky Cheese Chocolat is delicious.

“That’s why your methods might seem lukewarm to her. It’s not about which one is right, but when Himari-chan’s future is at stake, it’s even more important.”

“Why is she so fixated on Himari?”

“It’s because she recognizes Himari-chan’s talent. Or maybe she sees a bit of her past self in her and can’t just leave her be…”

Saku-neesan started to say something meaningful but stopped herself with an “Oops.”

“Either way, she won’t give up on Himari-chan unless you win this challenge. That girl holds grudges like no one else.”

“…What if Himari runs away?”

“She’ll probably hunt you down for the rest of your lives. I don’t think Kureha would break the rules, but… for example, she might open a flower accessory shop right in your city and crush you with her capital. You wouldn’t stand a chance.”

Saku-neesan laughed heartily, but… honestly, that’s not something to laugh about.

Naturally, our gazes turned to Himari.

“Himari… You knew what kind of person she was, and yet you still tricked her during the scouting?”

“If I’d known it was Kureha-san’s agency, I would’ve turned her down from the start!?”

Himari pouted and mumbled, “Besides, back then, Yuu-kun said something that made me so mad…”

Hearing that made me feel weak. I’m partly responsible for creating this situation. …Honestly, it feels like our fateful partnership has completely backfired.

“Well, in a way, you guys are lucky. If Hibari-kun hadn’t stepped in, you wouldn’t even have gotten this chance. Even an ex-boyfriend you had a messy breakup with can be useful sometimes.”

“Sakura-kun, please spare me…”

Hibari-san awkwardly turned his face away. Saku-neesan playfully poked his cheek.

That brief action alone made me realize that Saku-neesan and Hibari-san really were friends. In some corner of the world I didn’t know about, the relationship between these two—or perhaps the three of them, including Kureha-san—had been built up over time.

Hibari-san cleared his throat.

“In any case, it’s a fact that Kureha-kun is furious because of Himari’s betrayal. Even if there wasn’t a formal contract, breaking a promise on a whim is shameful behavior. It’s worse than an animal. Right now, Himari is no better than a sewer rat.”

“Eh, Onii-chan, isn’t that a bit too harsh? Calling me a sewer rat is going too far, don’t you think? I’m still a beauty, you know?”

“Stop squeaking. Just sit quietly in the corner.”

“Onii-chan, you’re actually mad that I canceled today’s meeting, aren’t you!?”

Himari, sitting in the corner of the living room with teary eyes, started pouting, “Squeak, squeak.”

Our cat, Daifuku, patted her back with his tail to comfort her. Enomoto-san watched this with a longing gaze. …You guys are something else.

“But honestly, I don’t feel like we can win…”

When I said that honestly, Hibari-san firmly patted my shoulder.

“Yuu-kun, there’s no need to worry. Even if we lose this challenge, we can just hand over Himari and run the accessory shop together, just the two of us.”

“I think you just indirectly told me this is a battle we absolutely can’t lose.”

Then, Enomoto-san reacted with a start.

She clenched her fist tightly and shouted with great enthusiasm.

“I’m here too, so it’ll be fine!”

“Enomoto-san, you’re already planning ahead as if Himari’s gone…”

And Himari-san, glaring at me with resentment, muttered, “You cheater…” while pulling out Daifuku’s tail fur. Please stop that…

“Anyway, Yuu-kun, just do your best to make the best accessory like always.”

“But this challenge… Kureha-san definitely doesn’t plan to let us win, right…?”

Hibari-san smiled faintly and patted my shoulder.

“It’s fine. You have what it takes to overturn this. I’m helping you because I fell in love with your accessories, after all.”

“…………”

…That’s right. There’s no time to regret things now.

Either way, if we don’t win, Himari will be taken away. Last time, even when I said I’d quit making accessories, Himari said she’d wait for me because she believed in me. …To repay that, I’ll save Himari this time. We’re partners in fate, after all.

As I thought that, I suddenly made eye contact with Saku-neesan. She sighed meaningfully and said briefly.

“Foolish little brother. Do it properly, okay?”

“…? Yeah, I know, but…”

I honestly had no idea what that expression meant.

♣♣♣

The next day. The closing ceremony ended in the morning, and we officially entered summer vacation. As soon as homeroom ended, Himari stood up with a cheerful smile.

“Alright, Yuu. Let’s go find some summer memories!”

Ugh…

What’s with that super youthful line? Even I feel a bit embarrassed. At least spare me from saying that in the classroom.

“Himari. You seem really excited…”

“Well, it’s summer vacation. Of course, I’m excited!”

“No, no. You’re being targeted by Kureha-san, remember?”

“It’s fine because Yuu’s going to win! Besides, I’ve got a secret plan just in case!”

“A secret plan? You have one?”

Himari puffed out her chest proudly.

“I’ll join the agency and quit right away!”

“You’re going to get scolded for saying stuff like that so casually…”

It’s because you rely on your smooth talking that we ended up in this mess in the first place. I should probably report this to Hibari-san…

We left the classroom and went down the stairs.

“By the way, wouldn’t that still mean dropping out of high school? Isn’t that a hassle?”

“It’s totally fine! Because Yuu’s going to take care of me for the rest of my life, right?”

“…You mean running the shop together, right? Don’t say it in such a misleading way.”

“Misleading? Why?”

“Well, it’s just… it sounds like we’re getting married or something…”

Suddenly, Himari stopped walking.

I was a few steps below her. When I turned around, I had to look up to see her face.

Himari’s expression, different from usual, made my heart skip a beat.

“I don’t remember saying it like that.”

“Huh…?”

Himari covered her mouth with both hands and spoke shyly.

“You’re only supposed to look at me, right?”

“…………”

Her marine-blue eyes wavered with unease.

It must be because of Kureha-san’s influence. No matter how composed Himari seems, she can’t possibly be completely free of worry. Himari might seem invincible at first glance, but… I know she’s just a normal girl at heart.

“H-Himari. I’ll definitely win against Kureha-san… Huh?”

Just as I was about to say something super serious and cringy, Himari started trembling, covering her mouth.

…Oh no.

“Pfft—! I totally got you that time, Yuu!!”

“Himariaaaaaaah!?”

I let my guard down!

I’ve been relying on Enomoto-san for help lately, so my instincts have dulled!

Himari happily poked the top of my head with her finger.

“Hey, hey. What were you going to say just now, Yuu? Something like, ‘I’ll protect you from Kureha-san (serious face)’?”

“Shut up. Seriously, shut up. Should I just let you win on purpose?”

“Eh? You’re saying that, but you love me, right?”

“…………”

Seriously. I’m not just a machine to make you laugh… Whoa! Himari suddenly leaned her body against me from the stairs!

“Himari, that’s dangerous!”

“By the way, Yuu, you’ve been so distant lately, and I’ve been feeling lonely. Make me laugh more!”

“What kind of request is that? And get off me. It’s too hot.”

“No, no. A beautiful girl’s sweat is like a reward, you know?”

“What’s with that ‘sweat’ thing? You really need to work on your vocabulary. What kind of idol are you trying to be with that kind of language?”

I fired back with a rapid-fire retort, but my heart was pounding.

Seriously, I can’t take this anymore. I’m at my limit. Himari’s clinging to me, and I can’t even breathe. Sorry, but I don’t have the mental capacity to enjoy a beautiful girl’s sweat right now. Is this… love? Yeah, it’s love, damn it.

Without thinking, I shook her off with my arm.

“Seriously, get off me!”

“Ouch!?”

Oh no.

Himari, who I had forcefully shaken off, lost her balance and tumbled down the stairs.

Her body lost its balance… and she fell down the stairs.

(Oh no…!)

Just as my heart turned cold… Himari landed on the landing with a thud, sitting on her butt.

And then, Himari let out a scream.

“Owwww!”

“H-Himari, are you okay…?”

Himari glared at me and slapped my leg.

“It’s your fault for shaking me off!”

“Ah, um… sorry.”

My heart was pounding for a different reason now.

It was good that it happened near the landing. If it had been higher up…

(…Am I losing focus because I’m too preoccupied with Himari?)

I let out a sigh.

I need to be more careful. Himari’s communication style is so intense, and if I overdo it… Wait, no? Isn’t it Himari’s fault for clinging to me in the first place?

As I groaned, a voice came from above.

“Yuu-kun. Hii-chan. What are you doing?”

“Ah, Enomoto-san.”

Looking up, I saw Enomoto-san coming down the stairs with light steps. …Her chest.

As I struggled to find a place to look, Himari, who had gotten up, clung to her and started crying.

“Waaah! Enocchi, Yuu pushed me down! Comfort me with your boobs!”

“You probably did something unnecessary, didn’t you? It’s your own fault.”

Enomoto-san’s absolute trust in Himari was unshakable.

Enomoto-san, as if she had seen everything, grabbed Himari’s head as she tried to bury her face in her chest.

While using her iron claw to crush Himari’s desires as usual, she turned to me. Then, with a dazzlingly cute smile, she said, “Ehe.”

“Yuu-kun. Let’s go find some summer memories.”

“If it weren’t for Himari screaming in your right hand, it would’ve felt more like a youthful moment.”

The scene was…

More like a mad executioner, honestly. Enomoto-san acts cute, but she’s definitely Kureha-san’s sister.

For now, the three of us decided to head out into the midsummer town.

♣♣♣

…Man, it’s hot.

The blazing sun and the heat radiating from the asphalt. The rural national highway… it’s scorching.

This isn’t the time for summer memories.

So, we quickly took shelter under a roof.

A hidden café tucked away in a back alley off Route 10.

Kissa-ya Masshi.

Honestly, the waffles here are so thick that one is enough, but they stack four of them generously on an ice cream plate for just a coin. The taste is great, but the chocolate sauce drizzled in a grid pattern is what really makes it stand out.

This is the surprising quality of the countryside… In the city, this would probably cost over 1,000 yen.

I dipped the fluffy waffle into the melted vanilla ice cream and took a bite. So good.

The sweetness is nice. It soothes my heart no matter the season. The only problem is Enomoto-san, who’s staring at me intently with her phone.

“…Enomoto-san. Is it fun taking pictures of me eating waffles?”

“Yeah. It’s full of new discoveries.”

“Wouldn’t it be better to take pictures of the sweets?”

“Ah, it’s fine. I already took some for my Twitter.”

“That’s not what I meant…”

I tried to indirectly say “please stop” but it seems it didn’t get through… Ah, they just smirked. This is definitely the pattern where they understand but are playing dumb. The fact that even that’s cute is seriously unfair.

And what’s with Himari next to me giving off that pressure with her smile?

It’s like she’s saying “Oh my~ What’s this lovey-dovey hot atmosphere going on here, ignoring the ultimate cute combo of sweets & me? The ice cream’s gonna melt!” While I admit that right now Himari’s sporting a cuteness level worthy of being on a French menu like “Summer Waffle with Strawberry Sauce,” I’m not good with girls who use sweets to appeal their cuteness – they seem like they’d have too much pride…

While putting a palate-cleansing waffle in my mouth, I suddenly voiced a question.

“What exactly are… summer memories anyway?”

“Don’t ask me~”

We came out to town somewhat aimlessly, but randomly moving around doesn’t feel right either. More like, we’ll die. Riding bikes all around town under this sun is only permissible for elementary school kids.

Enomoto-san asked while taking a sip of her iced tea.

“Are you using the flower bed flowers this time?”

“No, those still need a bit more time to bloom. This time we’ll either buy flowers or collect some growing wild somewhere…”

This time, the theme is pretty vague.

When I first did this with Enomoto-san, it was “Love,” and the school students each had clear objectives too. However, this time it’s “Summer” and “Memories.”

Which point in summer? Whose memories? Something universal? Something focused on an individual? Express summer’s heat? Or like us now, the pleasant coolness because of the heat? It’s not even limited to Japanese summer…?

While it’s a common theme, the freedom is so high it’s confusing in reverse.

“…Above all, not being able to communicate with the client this time makes it difficult”

Until now, we’ve basically been able to check with the client each time. Not being able to do that is surprisingly tough.

It’s like the final question that pushes confusion to the extreme by adding the client’s mood flavor to a question without a correct answer. This is like something from “HUNTER×HUNTER” that Saku-neesan likes…

Himari said while licking the strawberry sauce stuck to her spoon.

“Wouldn’t it be better to approach this from the situation rather than flowers?”

“Situation?”

“Like taking lots of photos of summer-like scenery and then matching flowers to them afterward?”

“Oh, that way…”

In other words, the opposite of what I did with Enomoto-san.

But I’m not good at that. Since I didn’t have much experience playing with friends until middle school, I’m not good at finding these general concepts.

“Then should Enocchi and I try thinking of summer-like things?”

“No… Hii-chan, you’ll probably only come up with dirty ideas”

“How rude! I’m a high school girl, you know?”

“I think it’s because of your usual behavior… Well then, try saying something as a test”

I completely agree with Enomoto-san, so I’d rather not hear it, but.

Himari, having gained a chance for redemption, thinks with an “hmm.” After pondering like Master Ikkyuu, her eyes suddenly lit up.

“You know how there are fields spreading out when you go towards the ocean from Route 10?”

“Ah, yeah”

“Do you know that unmanned prefab building with lots of vending machines there?”

“That place that feels like an old-style unmanned shop? The scenery does feel summer-like, but…”

“Dusk. On the way home from club activities. I was walking home together with you, my childhood friend”

“Whoa. Some story just started…”

Himari continued eloquently with a smug face.

“A sudden rain shower. We take shelter in the nearby prefab. The fields stretching all around, wrapped in dim darkness, are obscured by the curtain of rain, and our figures and voices have vanished from the world. This three-centimeter distance between our shoulders, with just the two of us here. Your cheeks were dyed red in the faint light of the vending machines—”

It’s like a cheap novel.

It’s mean to say, but I really feel like Himari isn’t suited for creative pursuits. She’s good at consuming and repurposing things, but she’s worst at creating things herself. She’s apparently really bad at cooking too.

While I was feeling deflated, Enomoto-san was listening quite seriously.

“What happens to the two of them after that?”

She asks eagerly while making “hmm hmm” sounds. Maybe she actually likes this kind of thing? That’s cute.

“After that? Hmm…”

Looks like Himari hadn’t thought of anything beyond that point.

Ah, just as I thought this was going to be bad, she suddenly blurted out.

“Unable to resist the pink bra visible through her wet clothes, I…”

“Rejected. You’re definitely banned from talking”

In the end, you went straight to erotic content, didn’t you?

Enomoto-san, who had been quite expectant, seemed especially disappointed. While stabbing her waffle repeatedly with her fork, she muttered dejectedly.

“Maybe I should give up on aiming for Hii-chan’s first place…”

“How rude~ It’s like you don’t want to be thought of as my friend~”

That’s what Himari said… By the way, I feel exactly the same way. I want that Nirinso ring back.

Himari, fuming with anger saying “This is why innocent people are so—” asked.

“Well then, what about Enocchi?”

“Eh? Me?”

“Enocchi’s liked romance manga since forever, so you must have lots of bittersweet summer memories”

“I don’t really have any particular…”

At that moment, our eyes met with Enomoto-san’s. For some reason, her face turned bright red, and while averting her gaze, she mumbled.

“I’d be fine anywhere as long as it’s with Yuu-kun…”

“Hey, were we talking about ideal first times just now? Please spare me…”

While it is a summer memory. If I wasn’t used to Himari’s dirty jokes on a regular basis, I’d be coughing up blood right now.

Also Himari, please stop covering your mouth and teasing like “Wow, Enocchi’s going all out♡”. It’s going to be super awkward later.

“Well, let’s not overthink it and start with something manageable…”

I finished the remaining waffle. It was delicious. It was delicious, but since I didn’t have lunch, it feels a bit insufficient.

Though if I order more now, I might not finish it.

“Ah, Yuu. You can have this~”

Himari next to me held out her plate.

About half remains. Or rather, it looks like it was portioned that way from the start.

“Himari. Aren’t you going to eat?”

“Nah~ Since you didn’t have lunch today, I thought you might not have enough. It’s too much for me, so go ahead and eat~”

…Hmm.

This feels kind of, well. Even if we’re best friends, it’s embarrassing to feel like I’m being fed. Though if you put it that way, I’ll gratefully accept it.

While I’m thinking this, for some reason Enomoto-san is acting suspiciously.

“I-I’ll give you mine too!”

“Unexpected intervention from Enomoto-san…”

How did it end up like this? Did I look that hungry?

While I was confused, Himari provocatively smiled at Enomoto-san with a composed expression.

“Hoho~ Enocchi, not bad?”

“…Hii-chan. I won’t lose”

Wait, wait.

Don’t get all serious while ignoring me in the middle. To be honest, I don’t even understand why they’re competing.

Then, Himari made her move.

“Here, Yuu. Say aah♡”

“……”

Ugh…

Is there really a need to do the “say aah”? Moreover, the waffle has been carefully cut into bite-sized pieces with ice cream and strawberry sauce neatly placed on top. Hey, you must be the type who makes mini-ramen on your spoon when eating ramen!?

“Hehehe~ Yuu’s such a lucky guy getting fed by a cute girl like me. Come on, come on, let’s show off how close we are♪”

“Show off to who? And what benefit does that give?”

“Who knows~?”

She glances at Enomoto-san.

Then an annoyed Enomoto-san hurriedly speared a waffle with her fork!

“Yuu-kun. This one too!”

“Ugh…”

Enomoto-san naturally joins the competition.

From that side, I’m presented with a rather forcefully skewered waffle. Enomoto-san, can you really accept that aesthetic sense? Weren’t you supposed to be the successor to a Western confectionery shop? Also, that waffle is full of holes from when you were stabbing it with your fork earlier…

“Come on, Yuu♡”

“Yuu-kun!”

Their beautiful faces draw closer and closer. I unconsciously back away, making my chair clatter. At the rainy dusk shelter, I couldn’t resist her pink bra… — hey, don’t let that story influence me!

The pressure is definitely intense.

I probably understand they’re competing over whose food I’ll eat first.

No, either way, getting fed by girls is embarrassing… I’ll eat by mys— ah, not allowed? They caught my eye movement and gave me sharp glares.

(Thinking calmly, I should take Himari’s portion)

We’re best friends, right? We’ve normally shared food before, right?

But somehow, in my current psychological state, that feels dangerous. Specifically, I might act weird (creepy) from being too nervous.

Ah, whatever!

“…nom”

“Ah!? Yuu!”

I bit into Enomoto-san’s waffle.

Going with the momentum, I devour it all. After swallowing, I give a thumbs up. Though, my teeth don’t shine like Hibari-san’s.

“Enomoto-san. Thank you for the meal!”

“U-um. No, thank you…”

Enomoto-san sank into her chair, looking extremely embarrassed. What do you mean ‘thank you’?

Well, whatever. More importantly, now I can escape this crisis…

“Well then, Himari. You can eat yours yourse— Aah!?”

Himari wolfed down the remaining waffle. While chewing, she gives me a sullen look.

“Himari. Weren’t you going to give me that waffle?”

“Uh hih hiho hohi aheh uwaaffu fuhai”

“What?”

“Mm… There’s no waffle for traitors”

Seriously? I was looking forward to that strawberry sauce too…

Wait, why is Himari in a bad mood? This happened because you started unnecessary things. With these feelings of resignation, I went to pay the bill.

♣♣♣

Blue sea!

Dazzling sun!

And two beautiful girls playing at the water’s edge!

“Ahaha! Look, Enocchi!”

“Hii-chan. That’s cold!”

They run around splashing water at each other with squeals. The water droplets they kick up reflect the sunlight, sparkling brilliantly.

Click.

I kept pressing my phone’s shutter button. From the surfers’ perspective, I must look like a suspicious person, right? No, no, don’t hesitate. They’re doing this for me. I need to keep shooting until inspiration strikes, with an empty mind.

After finishing a round of photos, I waved to them. Himari and Enomoto-san came back, kicking through the waves.

“Wheee~ How was it~?”

“Hii-chan, you were really serious about splashing water…”

Enomoto-san was worrying about her cardigan and skirt. Well, seawater is hard to wash out with normal laundry.

Himari said “Sorry, sorry” while handing Enomoto-san a towel.

“Since we don’t have school from tomorrow, want to get them dry-cleaned together at my place?”

“It’s fine. If I change at Hii-chan’s house, none of your clothes would fit me anyway…”

Himari twitched in response.

“Hehehe~ Naturally picking a fight about my bust size, Enocchi’s got guts♪”

“…It’s just the truth”

Himari smiled while wiggling both hands.

Enomoto-san backed away gradually, a bead of sweat running down her forehead.

“Come here, you guilty one!”

“Wait, Hii-chan!? Stop it!”

Hey~ If you run around too much, you’ll trip on the sand~

Since coming to the nearby beach looking for inspiration, they’ve both been in high spirits. Summer beaches really do seem to unleash one’s instincts.

Ignoring the two girls playing around with squeals, I check the photos I just took. Some of them are pretty good, but somehow they need something more…

“I think they came out cute though~”

“Whoa!”

I was startled when Himari suddenly peered at my phone. It’s bad for my heart when I become conscious of a beautiful girl as the opposite sex – everything they do makes my heart skip a beat.

Enomoto-san also looks at the photos and says “Aren’t they good?” but…

“Hmm. It feels like summer…”

“Memories?”

“Like a Pocari commercial”

That’s true.

While that’s nice in its own way, it probably doesn’t fit this theme. Or rather, it probably wouldn’t suit our client Kureha-san. She gives off more of a bright red lipstick and sparkly foundation image… Or like the most ancient dragon who can even silence Hibari-san, bearer of the GARO title.

“The promise with Kureha-san is after Obon… so three weeks until the deadline”

Since we’re not mass-producing this time, I can focus on the design, but if there’s time I’d like to make several variations. Our future depends on this, so ordinary won’t cut it. Thinking about it that way, we’ve strayed quite far from a fun summer vacation.

After leaving the beach, we walk through the windbreak forest towards the main road.

We discussed while walking, but no particularly inspiring ideas came up.

“Hmm. Since I won’t be here during Obon~ I want to decide on something solid before then~”

Enomoto-san tilted her head.

“Huh? Hii-chan, are you going somewhere during Obon?”

“You know, Himari goes to greet her father’s family home during this time”

Then Himari poked my forehead with her index finger.

“No cheating while I’m gone♪”

“Cheating?”

“By the way, I’ll be playing with the girls over there~”

“This promise isn’t equivalent exchange…”

Well, if Himari’s not here I don’t have any plans anyway, so it’s fine.

Suddenly feeling a gaze from behind, I turned around. Enomoto-san was looking at me with sparkling eyes like “So, a chance for a date alone with Yuu-kun!?”

“…I need to focus on making accessories”

“Tch”

Did Enomoto-san just click her tongue? Hey, she definitely clicked her tongue, right?

Since the last revelation, it makes my heart race that Enomoto-san doesn’t try to hide her dark side… Not in a romantic way, of course.

There was a Lawson where we came out of the windbreak forest. Himari and Enomoto-san ran ahead yelling “I want frozen mango!” “I want the chocolate one!”

What should I get… I just had sweets, so maybe I should go for an L-Chiki… Actually, my throat’s dry from the sea breeze.

A group of elementary school students passed by us coming out of Lawson. They were being noisy while holding ice cream and juice, as expected.

As expected of elementary school kids. Even in this heat, they’re energetically outside… Ah, they’re all carrying Switches. They’re probably heading to someone’s house to play games all day.

After watching them leave, I entered Lawson. The air conditioning is amazing. Viva civilization.

“…Hmm?”

I looked back at those kids with their Switches.

Then, I stood there lost in thought.

“Aren’t you buying anything?”

“Ah, Himari. You finished shopping quickly…”

“Well~ I’ve been wanting a snack~ Can’t exactly carry around Yoghurppe in this heat~”

While saying this, she was crushing her frozen mango with the straw. After finishing that, she slurped it up with the straw… Ah, she’s getting brain freeze. Where did the refined young lady go?

“Yuu. Why were you making such a serious face earlier?”

“Ah. About that, seeing those kids’ Switches reminded me of something…”

Himari tilted her head curiously.

I told her what I had just thought of.

♣♣♣

The next day.

The three of us visited a certain place in the early afternoon.

At the end of a back alley in the shopping district, in a corner of a residential area. There stands a single-story house. Surrounded by earthen walls, at the entrance was a small sign that read “Araki Flower Arrangement School.” Though “Reservation Required” was written in black marker, the crucial phone number was nowhere to be found.

Enomoto-san looked around curiously and asked.

“Is this where Yuu-kun used to come?”

“Yeah. Though I haven’t been here since starting high school…”

In the tiny garden, no larger than a cat’s forehead, bonsai of subdued colors were arranged in rows. Though not flashy, each possessed a dignified beauty. Together they created a harmony that soothed the hearts of passersby.

From that garden came the lively voices of children.

Together with the two of them, I passed through the entrance gate and rang the intercom at the front door. Though the chime rang inside the house, the owner’s voice came from the direction of the garden.

“Over here! Come on in!”

We proceeded from the entrance to the garden.

Under the eaves was a middle-aged woman engrossed in Pokémon with some neighborhood elementary school students.

Her black hair was tied back in a single ponytail, and she wore black-rimmed glasses. Her outfit consisted of a casual camisole and tight jeans.

This was the flower arrangement teacher, named Araki Yumi. I simply call her Araki-sensei.

When she saw us, she flashed a refreshing smile.

“Oh, Natsume-kun. Just a moment.”

Saying that, she returned her gaze to the Switch screen.

The elementary school students were cheering “Kyaa kyaa” from behind the boy who was battling. Standing against him, Araki-sensei’s eyes gleamed brightly.

“Take this, my ultimate Ghost Dive!”

“Whoa, Sensei, using Mimikyu is cheating!”

How immature…

As I watched this thirty-something seriously demolishing elementary school students, I felt awkward. Araki-sensei, still basking in the afterglow of victory, pressed two thousand-yen bills into the elementary school students’ hands.

“Go buy some ice cream at the supermarket over there.”

The elementary school students let out excited cheers and left.

Araki-sensei turned to us and looked over the group.

“It’s been a while, Inuzuka-chan… Oh my, another cute girl has joined you.”

“Ah, I’m Enomoto Rion. Hello!”

“Ahaha. No need to be so tense. I’m Araki. I run this not-so-popular flower arrangement school.”

The person who used to attend this not-so-popular flower arrangement school is right in front of us though…

As I was struggling with how to react, Araki-sensei took off her sandals and invited us in.

“Sorry for the wait. Come in this way.”

Together with Himari and the others, we took off our shoes and went inside.

A spacious ten-mat tatami room… this is where the flower arrangement classes are usually held.

While we waited there, Araki-sensei returned from the kitchen. On her tray were barley tea and the snacks we had brought as gifts. As we received them together, I said to her.

“You’re really into Pokémon, huh?”

“Well, what I learned when Natsume-kun was attending has become my hobby now.”

“But is it really okay to go all out against elementary school students, considering the meta and everything?”

“This world is survival of the fittest. They’ll realize that eventually.”

Seriously immature…

Still, adults who can play at the same level as elementary school students are rare these days. When I first started coming here, she was really good to me too.

“Well well, you’ve finally reached the age where you’re keeping mistresses other than Inuzuka-chan.”

“Araki-sensei. That phrasing. Could you please stop with that?”

“Ahaha. Inuzuka-chan, how’s your husband doing lately?”

When Araki-sensei asked, Himari shrugged while drinking her barley tea.

“Still the same flower-obsessed guy.”

“Still the same, huh?”

“I wish he’d work as hard at keeping me happy as he does with flowers.”

“That’s important too.”

They laughed together heartily. Araki-sensei turned to me with a “What do you say to that?”

I cleared my throat to dodge the question. Ever since Himari first came to the exhibition, this person has been constantly teasing me by calling me “husband.”

“Anyway, sorry for coming suddenly today.”

“No reservations, but that’s fine. Has it been a year? What’s up?”

“There’s a reason… I was wondering if I could see some of the other students’ works here…”

“Hoho. It’s rare for you to want to see others’ works. Have you hit a creative block?”

“Something like that…”

Araki-sensei stood up and headed toward the hallway.

“The summer exhibition is next month, so I only have photos of past works. Is that okay?”

“Ah, yes. Of course.”

Araki-sensei left the room and came back with several albums. She started opening them in chronological order, from newest to oldest.

“I really should digitize these at some point, but I can never seem to get around to it.”

“Don’t you use Instagram? Some other flower arrangement schools do.”

“Right now, I find playing games more fun than dealing with students.”

“Araki-sensei…”

It was back when I was in elementary school, when I first started attending this school.

Apparently, Araki-sensei tried everything she could think of that children might enjoy to communicate with me back then. As a result, while I didn’t take the bait at all, she ended up falling deep into that rabbit hole herself.

Anyway, I started flipping through the album.

There were photos of works exhibited at this year’s exhibition and gardens designed for renovation companies.

As I looked at them one by one, I suddenly came across photos of Himari and me. Actually, for several pages after that, it was all photos of Himari and me from our middle school days. After seeing the first exhibition, Himari started coming here occasionally too. …Looking at these eccentric flower arrangements in the photos, you can probably guess how that turned out.

Enomoto-san was peering at them with great interest.

“Hii-chan, you were cuter back then.”

“Enocchi? Are you saying I’m not cute now? Hmm?”

Araki-sensei said with a laugh.

“Inuzuka-chan, you had long hair back then, didn’t you? Not going to grow it out again?”

“Hmm. Maybe I’ll think about it when Yuu stops burning my hair with his soldering iron.”

“It’s such pretty hair too. Well, Natsume-kun said he likes Inuzuka-chan’s short hair, so I guess it’s fine.”

Ah, wait…

“Oh?”

Himari’s eyes sparkled as she suddenly brought her face close to mine. She leaned in toward me with an extremely pleased smile.

“Hehe. Yuu, is that true?”

“I-it’s just a general observation. Just speaking generally, that it suits Himari…”

“Eh? Preference is subjective, right? So you’re basically saying you like-like-super-like-love me as I am now, right?”

“Wait, weren’t we talking about hair? Isn’t this getting into dangerous territory with the like-like-super-like-love stuff? Like, do we need to dig deeper into this? Let’s get back to the album…”

“No way. The challenge this time is to create something that overcomes subjectivity and prejudice, right? So to focus on the subjectivity and prejudice lurking within Yuu, this discussion…”

I looked to Enomoto-san for help.

That Enomoto-san was, for some reason, twirling her own hair with a serious expression on her face.

“…Maybe I should cut it.”

“Don’t cut it! I think your current hair is fine, Enomoto-san!”

This girl is dangerous!

Regardless of why Himari cut hers, I want her to value herself a bit more.

While we were talking about this, Araki-sensei suddenly made a suggestion.

“Want to try it for a change of pace?”

“Is it okay without a reservation?”

“Well, it would be bland to just look at photos, especially with a beginner here.”

Enomoto-san’s eyes sparkled with interest.

“Enomoto-san, want to try?”

“Yeah. I want to.”

“Then it’s decided,” she said, and we started preparing with Araki-sensei. Suddenly feeling eyes on me, I turned around to find Himari watching with a slightly ambiguous expression.

“You’ll do it too, right, Himari?”

“Ah, um…”

She showed a moment of hesitation.

Then, with her usual bright smile, she said:

“I’ll just watch you two~”

“Eh, seriously?”

That’s rare. She used to eagerly say she wanted to try in the past.

I felt something slightly off about that, but I didn’t dwell on it. More than that, my heart was dancing a little at the thought of doing flower arrangement after so long.

Well, it’s hot today. I figured she was probably just tired.

♢♢♢

Since I was a child, I’ve always been bad at creating things.

My hands are dexterous, and I’m good at figuring things out. But whenever I try to make something, I always lose interest halfway through. Whether it was arts and crafts in elementary school, music, cooking… and even flower arrangement.

A long time ago, my brother told me something.

“Himari. You’re bad at imagining the finished product and working toward it.”

That hit the nail on the head.

I’m basically good at anything. If someone shows me the steps to completion, I can copy it perfectly.

Studying, sports, games, music—anything.

If someone told me, “This is the answer,” and I just imitated it, everyone would praise me. On the other hand, I was surprisingly bad at things where I was told, “You’re free to do whatever you want.” In those kinds of classes, I usually ended up copying the teacher or other students.

And that was fine.

After all, not many people can even imitate things perfectly, right? I loved getting carried away, and I was satisfied with everyone fawning over me.

But one day, I was watching TV. It was a variety show, and a monkey from a big zoo in the Kanto region was on. Every time the monkey imitated the performers, the comedians and the audience would squeal with delight.

(…Oh, that’s me.)

That’s what I thought. It was literally monkey-see, monkey-do.

After that, I started feeling like I had no value, and nothing felt fun anymore. Even when boys would say, “You’re cute, let’s go out,” I’d wonder why they were so serious about wanting me to like them. I’d think, “It doesn’t have to be me, right? Just find someone who already likes you and make them happy. This is a waste of time.”

That’s how I was feeling when I met Yuu.

Being with Yuu was fun.

He completely believed in me. It seemed like he didn’t really have any friends before, so I felt like I was feeding a baby bird.

Hikaru Genji, was it? That pervert who wanted to raise a girl to his liking. I only read about him in a classical literature textbook, but I guess I was feeling something similar.

Since I couldn’t create anything on my own, I tried to gain my own value by helping Yuu with his dreams. Taking advantage of the fact that Yuu didn’t notice my sneaky plan.

…But I failed.

No, I probably chose someone who was never going to succeed in the first place. Instead of gaining something unique from Yuu, I ended up broadcasting his accessories to the world. As a result, I ended up inviting someone more suitable for him, like Enocchi.

Araki-sensei’s flower arrangement class.

Lying on the fragrant tatami mats, I was thinking about all this.

In my line of sight—Yuu and Enocchi were happily trying flower arrangement together. When Araki-sensei said, “Want to try?” he brought some random flowers from the garden, set up the tools, and went back to playing Pokémon with the elementary school kids. Left behind, Yuu ended up teaching Enocchi…

“Yuu-kun, this is hard.”

“Hmm. Yeah, it is.”

They were both groaning as they looked at the mountain of flowers piled extravagantly in the vase.

It was definitely something. If I had to describe it, it looked like a flower katsudon. Not that I’m one to talk, but I couldn’t sense any artistic direction here.

Araki-sensei’s teaching philosophy is “Have fun first,” so he lets students do whatever they want before teaching them the technical basics. Yuu started following that approach, but it seems Enocchi isn’t particularly gifted with artistic sense. Yesterday’s skewered waffle was a disaster too.

(It’s really hard to do things freely.)

I felt a little relieved deep down. If Enocchi, a complete beginner, had pulled off something amazing here, I’d have been utterly humiliated.

As I was thinking that, Yuu touched Enocchi’s flower katsudon.

He carefully removed the overflowing flowers, emptying the vase. Then, he picked up the flowers he’d removed. While trimming the damaged stems with flower scissors, he said:

“When you’re just starting out, it’s good to focus on presenting the flower arrangement as a ‘surface.’”

“A surface?”

“Flower arrangements can be appreciated from all 360 degrees, but first, try to narrow it down. Don’t aim for 100% right away—think of it as making 30% look like 100%. It’s easier to visualize that way.”

I don’t get it~.

Listening from the side, I had no idea what he was talking about. What kind of math is “30% to 100%”? I’ve been watching Yuu make accessories all this time, but I still couldn’t understand what he meant.

Wow. Yuu’s eyes are sparkling so much. He really looks happy when it comes to flowers. But I don’t get it. Probably Enocchi doesn’t either…

“Oh, I see.”

Huh?

Enocchi said that calmly and rotated the vase slightly.

“So, you’re saying we should focus on making the front look good first?”

“Yeah, exactly. Ignore the back completely.”

“Like cleaning only the front of our shop’s entrance and piling up cardboard in the back where no one can see.”

“Hmm. Well, yeah, something like that…”

Then the two of them started arranging the flowers in the vase again.

“Having too many flowers isn’t really good either.”

“Really?”

“Flower arrangement and flower art are a bit different in how you enjoy them. You could say flower arrangement is about enjoying the space.”

“Oh, I think I get it. Like how the excitement before eating cake is part of the fun.”

“Yeah, exactly. There’s also a basic rule for the number of flowers…”

…I just watched as they continued talking about things I didn’t understand.

It didn’t take long for Enocchi’s second flower arrangement to be completed. Seeing it, I was just stunned.

(…It’s beautiful.)

A single lily stood in the center. Surrounding it were modestly placed plants and flowers.

Everything was there to highlight that one main flower. Even we, who were in this room, felt like mere tools to admire the delicate, pure white flower.

I could tell it was still a bit clumsy, but it had an elegance that made it lovely. It was a motif that purely expressed the beauty of the flower, making everything else invisible.

Somehow, it felt like how Enocchi saw Yuu.

“Yuu-kun, how is it?”

“I think it’s really good. Better than when I first started coming here…”

The two of them were happily admiring the finished piece together. Their positioning felt so natural, as if they’d always been like that.

(…Why don’t I have that kind of sensibility?)

Ever since I realized my feelings for Yuu, I’ve been struggling with these emotions.

No matter how fulfilled I am, I’m never satisfied.

I’m greedy. I always end up focusing on what’s missing rather than what I have.

My short bob hair was spread loosely on the tatami. I touched it with my fingers, playfully tangling it. It felt smooth and nice. My hair, inherited from my grandmother, always had a soft, glossy sheen, no matter what.

I recalled what Araki-sensei had said earlier.

“Your hair is so pretty, it’s a shame.”

Back in middle school, when Yuu was making accessories, he accidentally burned my hair with a soldering iron. Well, not just once—it happened a lot.

Whenever I hugged him from behind to watch him work, his soldering iron would touch my hair and burn it.

Seeing the singed ends, Yuu would always apologize so guiltily that it made me feel bad. It was really my fault for not being careful.

So, when I started high school, I chopped it all off.

“Hii-chan, you’re even cuter now.”

I know Enocchi didn’t mean any harm.

Honestly, I think I looked more charming in middle school. But to monopolize Yuu’s passionate gaze, long hair was just in the way.

(…I actually liked having long hair, though.)

Hey, Yuu.

If my hair were long…

If it were as long as Enocchi’s, and if I were more girly…

Would you have only looked at me?

Would you have liked me more than Enocchi?

…Thinking these girly thoughts, I feel kinda gross. I got chills. I’m really not cut out for this.

(Maybe I’ll go get some fresh air.)

Pouting a little, I headed out to the garden.

The elementary school kids who were making noise earlier were gone. Araki-sensei was alone, smoking a cigarette.

The wind chime hanging under the eaves rang with a cool, refreshing sound.

“Sensei, where did the kids go?”

“They went home. We’re doing summer homework together tomorrow.”

“…Wouldn’t it be better to just run a cram school for elementary kids instead of a flower arrangement class?”

Araki-sensei laughed dryly. “I’m not educated enough for that.”

Then he glanced back toward the tatami room, exhaling a puff of purple smoke.

“That’s Enomoto-chan, right? The hibiscus girl Yuu-kun talked about when he was in elementary school?”

“…Sensei, can you tell?”

Araki-sensei shrugged.

Apparently, they looked so compatible that it was obvious even at first glance. It’s depressing.

“Does Enomoto-chan like Yuu-kun too?”

“Oh, absolutely. She’s apparently been in love with him for seven years.”

“Does Yuu-kun still like her?”

“He says he doesn’t, but deep down, he does.”

Lately, he’s been looking at Enocchi all the time. He says it’s not like that, but it’s so obvious. There’s no way I wouldn’t notice.

Araki-sensei laughed.

“Ah, youth. Go ahead and agonize over it to your heart’s content.”

“Ugh, you’re just brushing me off because it’s annoying!”

“Well, yeah. It’s hard to handle when Inuzuka-chan, who used to have zero romantic feelings, suddenly starts pulling out all these yandere… I mean, lovestruck maiden moves.”

“I’m not a yandere?!”

“Ahaha. From where I’m standing, it’s been quite the show. You’ve been glaring at Yuu-kun and Enomoto-chan like you’re about to shoot them.”

“You don’t have to say that! Sensei, you’re so mean!”

As I was playfully bantering with Araki-sensei, I suddenly heard a voice from behind.

“Himari. Can you take a look at this for a second?”

I froze.

Huh? Yuu? Did he hear that just now?

Sweating bullets, I turned around to see Yuu casually gesturing for me to come over. …Oh, it seems he didn’t hear. That’s annoying in its own way.

When I went back to the tatami room, Enocchi was looking through an album.

“What’s up? Is the flower arrangement experience over?”

“We were talking about what I used to make back in the day. So I was looking for photos…”

As he said that, he pointed to a specific photo.

“Ah.”

I gasped.

A large sunflower Christmas wreath.

The one from the first time I went to see his solo exhibition here. There’s no way I could forget. …It was the first flower arrangement Yuu ever made for me.

“What do you think about sunflowers for the competition with Kureha-san?”

“Yeah, yeah! It fits the theme perfectly, so it’s a great idea!”

I couldn’t help but get excited.

This guy… He’s got a sneaky side, huh? Acting like he’s not interested in me at all, but he’s actually been paying attention. Yuu’s always thinking about me, so I can’t stay mad at him!

…As I was internally celebrating, Yuu spoke up.

“Earlier, Enomoto-san said sunflowers would be good.”

“…Huh?”

I couldn’t help but let my real tone slip.

Yuu didn’t seem to notice and continued explaining, looking a bit proud.

“And sunflowers wouldn’t lose to Kureha-san’s flashiness, so I think they’d be perfect. Plus, there’s a model who’s similar to Enomoto-san, so it’s easy to match the image…”

“Oh, I see…”

Enocchi was also looking smug, clearly over the moon from Yuu’s praise. That loyal dog-like attitude… It sent a shiver down my spine.

Suddenly, someone tapped my shoulder. When I turned around, Araki-sensei was giving me a troubled smile.

“Inuzuka-chan. Stay cool.”

“…………”

I pulled out my ever-present Yoghurppe from my pocket, stuck in a straw, and took a sip. Cool-down complete. I put on my best smile and turned to Yuu and the others, who were looking at me curiously.

“Sunflowers sound great, don’t they?”

Yuu and Enocchi exchanged happy glances, completely unaware of the tiny thorn they’d just lodged in my chest.

And so, the motif for the accessory competition with Kureha-san was decided.