Chapter III | “Love Confession” for Flag 3.

♣♣♣

A few days later, early morning.

I was at the Starbucks inside the newer of the two stations in the city. Sitting at an outdoor table, I absentmindedly watched the flow of office workers passing by.

…Even during summer break, society keeps moving, huh.

It’s an obvious thing, but somehow it feels profound. And in just two more years, we’ll be joining their ranks. Thinking about it, this summer break feels all the more precious.

While I was lost in such thoughts, a familiar black foreign car pulled up at the drop-off area. Of course, it was Hibari-san’s car. Seeing Himari get out from the passenger seat, I headed over.

Today, Himari was wearing a thin long shirt and cropped leggings. She also had a stylish straw hat to shield herself from the sun.

When she saw the caramel Frappuccino in my hand, Himari let out an impressed hum.

“…Yuu. I can’t believe you’re drinking something so creamy this early in the morning.”

“Huh? Is that weird?”

“I’m just wondering if it’ll upset your stomach.”

“Nah, it’s nothing compared to the amount of Yoghurppe you drink.”

Himari laughed, saying, “Fair enough,” and took a sip from her Yoghurppe carton.

I greeted Hibari-san through the driver’s side window.

“Hibari-san. Good morning.”

“Hey, Yuu-kun. Morning.”

He took off her sunglasses and smiled warmly, his teeth gleaming. His teeth were still ridiculously perfect.

“Himari’s a good choice. Kureha-kun has always liked flashy things, after all.”

“Well, we haven’t decided on the design of the accessories yet…”

“Take your time. Rushing leads to a drop in quality. I hope you find some good flowers today.”

“Thank you.”

I turned the same smile toward Himari.

“Well then, Himari. Have fun.”

“Okay!”

Hibari-san started his beloved car and disappeared into the early morning streets. …Seeing him like this, he really seems like a nice older brother.

“Alright, I’ll go buy something too.”

“Then, I’ll go get the tickets.”

“Eh? Yuu, let’s line up together.”

“Lining up at Starbucks while holding a Starbucks drink? That’s way too bold…”

Leaving a pouting Himari behind, I headed toward the ticket counter.

At the much cleaner counter post-renovation, I stated my destination, paid for the ticket, and left the ticket area.

Peeking into the glass-walled Starbucks, I saw Himari still in line to order.

I went into the neighboring FamilyMart to buy breakfast bread… but ended up getting onigiri instead. I usually eat bread from the convenience store, so I thought I’d go for rice for a change.

I also bought some gum to wake myself up and left the store just as Himari arrived.

“Too bad for Enocchi. She couldn’t take time off to help at the shop.”

“It was sudden, so it can’t be helped. I hope she finds something nice as a souvenir.”

Joining the line of commuters with their passes, we passed through the old-fashioned manned ticket gate and emerged onto the spacious platform typical of the countryside. Gazing at the peaceful rural scenery, we waited about 10 minutes for the train… Then, with a siren, the express train entered the station.

The train, shaped like a bullet train, made me frown.

“…The seats are on the narrower side.”

“Oh no. Yuu, don’t hit your head…”

As we chatted and boarded… I hit my head on the entrance ceiling!

“Ow!”

“Pfft. Yuu, aren’t you a little too excited?”

“Shut up. This line’s trains are way too hit-or-miss.”

We took some empty seats in the non-reserved car.

Himari sat by the window, and I plopped down right behind her. Then, Himari turned around with a bunch of question marks floating above her head.

“Eh? Yuu, why are you sitting behind me? Sit next to me.”

“Uh, well…”

I stumbled over my words.

This train is narrow. The seats are, well, cramped, to say the least.

In other words, sitting next to her would mean we’d be pressed together. My mental state would crumble before we even reached our destination. But I couldn’t admit that, so I dodged the question.

“I want to stretch my legs…”

“No, no. It’s fine now, but it’ll be a bother if it gets crowded. Come here.”

“Uh, well, you see… I have this condition where I die if someone sits next to me.”

“That excuse is way too lazy. …Well, whatever.”

Himari sighed and turned back around.

The siren sounded, and the train slowly started moving. It was a strange, floating sensation. We watched the scenery outside gradually speed up.

Then, Himari popped her head out from the front seat. You’re the one bothering other passengers, I thought, but I didn’t say it to avoid stirring the pot.

Himari said cheerfully,

“It feels like it’s been a while since we went on a trip like this, Yuu.”

Now that she mentioned it, it did feel that way.

The last time was during spring break when we went to a big Aeon in Oita to watch a new movie. It’s only been four months since then, but it feels longer. This spring of our second year of high school has been packed with so many things.

It all undoubtedly started with reuniting with Enomoto-san.

“Hey, Yuu.”

“Hmm? What’s up?”

“Want me to guess what you’re thinking right now?”

“…Go ahead.”

Himari narrowed her eyes with a sly smile.

She rested her chin on the seat and tilted her head cutely.

“You’re feeling lonely without Enocchi, right?”

“…………”

Nope, way off.

I was thinking about Enomoto-san, but not in that way.

I sighed. Come to think of it, Himari was always saying stuff like this back in April. Didn’t she give up on trying to set me up with Enomoto-san?

“The correct answer was, ‘What should I have for dinner tonight?’”

“Hey, it’s still morning!”

“Oh, right. I bought onigiri earlier.”

I took the onigiri out of the convenience store bag.

Then, I placed it next to my half-finished caramel Frappuccino.

“…I should’ve bought tea too.”

I usually just eat bread, so I didn’t think about it.

“Himari. Does this express train have a vending machine?”

“I think so, but it’s probably in the reserved seating car…”

The train rattled.

Himari said, “Oh!” and rummaged through her bag. She pulled out a bottle of tea and handed it to me.

“Here, Yuu. I brought this from home. You can have it.”

“Seriously? Thanks.”

Did she predict this too? Isn’t that a bit too thorough? Himari, you didn’t plant a chip in my brain or something, did you?

Anyway, now I could eat the onigiri. Even for a sweet tooth like me, cream-heavy drinks and bonito flakes don’t mix well.

“…Hmm?”

“Oh…”

Himari and I noticed it at the same time.

The bottle she handed me was slightly less full. She must’ve taken a sip and forgotten about it before giving it to me.

Suddenly, the tea felt like Pandora’s box. Well, probably just my imagination. But it’s definitely messing with my mental state.

(Should I give it back? But it’s not like we’re at a stage where sharing drinks is weird…)

…It feels like she’s aware of it, and reacting would mean losing.

While I hesitated, Himari suddenly said,

“…Is it bad for Enocchi?”

“Huh?”

Himari was looking out the window.

No, she was probably looking at my reflection in the window. That’s what it felt like.

“Lately, you’ve been avoiding me, haven’t you, Yuu-kun?”

“Uh…”

Avoiding eye contact slightly, Himari asked,

“Is it because you feel bad about Enocchi?”

“No, it’s not like that…”

“Then why?”

“Why, huh…”

(It’s because I’ve started seeing you as a girl and I’m honestly so nervous around you that I feel like I’ll die, but I also have this goal of opening a store and I’m too hesitant to confess properly…) Like I could say that!

Sigh, let’s just act normal. I’ve been way too tense, and my mouth feels all sticky and gross. I should’ve just looked for the vending machine instead of being lazy……

“……I’m not avoiding you, and Enomoto-san has nothing to do with it.”

“…………”

Whoa!?

Suddenly, Himari snatched the bottle from my hands.

She chugged it down in one go, then wiped her mouth dramatically.

“Phew! This tea is delicious!”

“It’s not about being delicious! What was that all of a sudden?!”

My jeans got a little wet!

As I raised my voice in protest, Himari laughed, “Puhahaha,” and pulled out a towel.

“Sorry, sorry! Here, wipe it with this.”

“Wait, seriously, what are you trying to do? You shouting right next to my ear almost gave me a heart attack.”

Weren’t you being all serious just a moment ago?

Then, Himari chuckled with a meaningful smile.

“Well, I just wanted to measure your love for Enocchi.”

“And you used half-drunk tea for that? Also, about Enomoto-san…”

“Yeah, yeah. Yuu-kun, you’re so not honest.”

“This conversation isn’t making any sense…”

Anyway, the immediate crisis was averted.

On the flip side, I’m exhausted now. And I’m hungry. I want to eat the onigiri. But I’m so thirsty that stuffing myself with rice here would probably kill me.

As I was thinking this, Himari stood up from her seat.

“As an apology, I’ll go buy something for you.”

“Huh? No, it’s my stuff, so I’ll go…”

“Nope. Yuu, you stay here and watch the bags.”

With that, she grabbed just her wallet and left.

Staring blankly at her retreating figure as she disappeared into the next car, I slumped in my seat.

…I seriously have no idea what my best friend is thinking.

♢♢♢

Three cars ahead.

A small space in front of the vending machine.

Amid the roaring sounds of wind and the train’s movement, I stood there, completely deflated.

“Haaaaaah…”

With a sigh, I repeatedly pressed the button for tea on the vending machine. Bottles of tea clattered out of the dispenser one after another.

(…It’s clear now.)

Yuu’s been avoiding me. Why would he deliberately sit in front of me? I don’t get it. Lately, he’s been genuinely annoyed by my “Puhaha” antics too. …I guess boys really change when they fall for someone.

(This isn’t good. I can’t keep thinking like this. Otherwise, something bad will come out again…)

Through the window, I could see the scenery outside.

The rural landscape rushing by at high speed. Reflected in the window, I looked perfectly, miraculously cute today. Truly a being loved by the gods.

But Enocchi is cuter. Not in looks, but in personality.

I was born to be loved, but Enocchi was born to be happy. The more I interact with her, the more I feel that.

And Enocchi’s happiness is probably tied to Yuu.

The more Yuu cherishes me, the more my ugly side grows. I can’t help but turn away from the fact that there’s someone better than me by his side.

I remember Makishima-kun saying something before.

“Before your lack of resolve to sacrifice everything for Natsume becomes apparent, you should’ve settled things.”

Back then, I was like, “Huh?” But now, I kind of get it.

I’m sneaky and hopelessly selfish. I can’t stand not being satisfied, and I don’t hesitate to hurt others. That’s why I should’ve settled things before my true nature showed.

I’m really not doing well at all. I know I just need to win Yuu in the end, but this current love keeps getting in the way. The self I want to be as a best friend is being overshadowed by the self I want to be as a lover.

Since falling in love, my life has been fun.

But at the same time, I can’t help but think…

“If only Enocchi weren’t here—”

…!?

I panicked and slapped my cheeks.

No, no!

I almost thought something really bad. I’m the worst. This doesn’t suit a super lovable character like me. Let’s switch gears, me! …How about a hardworking office lady juggling love and work?

As I handed out the excess bottles of tea to other passengers, I returned to Yuu.

There he was… dutifully waiting without eating his onigiri. He was staring blankly out the window, squinting in the morning sunlight.

I can kind of tell who he’s thinking about. Feeling a small ache in my chest, I sat down next to him with a forced smile.

“Yuu. Sorry to keep you waiting.”

“Ah, Himari. Thanks… Wait, what!? What’s with all that tea?”

“Hmm. I just felt like pressing the button a lot. So I went for it☆”

“What’s that? That makes no sense. Seriously, what are you going to do with all that tea?”

Yuu gave a wry smile as he accepted the tea.

That casual expression of his—somehow, it feels like something only I get to see, and it tightens my heart.

I’m a terrible person.

I know I’ve already lost. But when Yuu smiles at me—I can’t help but feel so happy. I’m truly beyond saving.

♣♣♣

After swaying on the train with Himari for nearly an hour,

we arrived at our destination.

Compared to our hometown… well, it’s pretty similar. Scenery-wise, it doesn’t feel like we’ve traveled far.

We stepped out of the old wooden station with its historic tiled roof.

It seemed to be about a 20-minute drive from the station. As we rode in the taxi, Himari and I chatted while looking at the townscape, which wasn’t much different from our hometown.

“Himari. What do you want for lunch?”

“Hmm. What should we do…?”

“Oh, right. There was that gyoza place featured on Matsuko’s Unknown World before, wasn’t there?”

When it comes to gyoza, places like Utsunomiya and Hamamatsu are famous, but locally, this town is also known as a fierce battleground for gyoza. I heard they even do mail orders, but since they were featured on TV, there’s apparently a six-month waiting list.

But Himari’s response was half-hearted. She just hummed absentmindedly while staring out the window.

“Hmm…”

“Himari?”

Finally, she turned her gaze toward me.

“Huh?”

“Lunch. What do you want?”

“Oh, yeah. Anything’s fine.”

“O-okay…”

She seemed unusually quiet.

She’s been like this since she went to buy the tea earlier. I thought she’d be more excited since it’s our first trip in a while.

“Well, the main thing is the flowers anyway.”

“…Yeah, you’re right. We’ll decide after we’re done.”

Outside the taxi window, vast fields began to spread out.

In one corner—though it was so wide you could barely see the end—there were towering sunflowers lined up densely. The sight of sunflowers stretching all the way to the horizon was breathtaking.

Guided by colorful banners, we got out of the taxi. The towering wall of sunflowers got me hyped up.

“Himari! This is insane! A whole field of sunflowers! They’re taller than me! And bigger than the ones at the florist, right!? Isn’t this crazy? Can we really take all these sunflowers!?”

“Hehe. Yuu, I get how you feel, but let’s calm down, okay?”

Being gently scolded like that brought my excitement down a notch.

Himari adjusted her straw hat, squinting against the bright sunlight.

“I heard about it from Araki-sensei, but this is amazing.”

This is one of the largest sunflower farms in Japan, sometimes said to produce the most sunflowers in the country.

Once a year, they hold a summer festival here. There’s a stage near the sunflower fields where local comedians and bands perform. There’s also a sunflower maze and other athletic activities using the fields. Food stalls line up, making it a fun event for families.

And most importantly, you can buy and take home the sunflowers you harvest yourself. That was our goal.

It was even more bustling than Araki-sensei had described. However, the crowd seemed to skew older. While there were families, groups of high schoolers like us were probably rare.

As the cheerful MC chatted and the nearby uncles and aunties clapped, we passed behind them and headed straight to the sunflower sales area.

“Whoa. This is, like, uh…”

“You don’t often see flowers this big, huh? Feels like something out of a Ghibli movie.”

“Yeah, that’s what I was about to say!”

“Hmm. I get why you’re excited, but Yuu’s energy is kind of exhausting…”

Ouch, that hurt…

Sunflowers.

The iconic flower of midsummer, as everyone knows.

Their defining feature is their large, yellow, sun-like blooms.

Sunflowers can grow up to three meters tall. Even the flower heads alone can reach 30 centimeters in diameter. It’s enough to make even a giant feel small.

They’re much bigger than the ones we handled in middle school. These are sunflowers in their prime. The stems and leaves supporting these flowers are thick and sturdy.

As I gently touched them, Himari spoke up thoughtfully.

“You know about sunflowers, but you don’t often get to see the real thing, huh?”

“Actually, sunflowers are made up of two types of flowers.”

“Oh no, Yuu’s starting to lecture.”

“……If you don’t want to hear it, that’s fine.”

My enthusiasm took a hit. I pouted and started walking away, but Himari quickly grabbed the hem of my hoodie.

“Hehe. Just kidding. I want to hear Yuu’s fun facts!”

“Isn’t it torture to make me talk after raising the bar like that?”

“It’s fine since it’s just me. So, what do you mean about the two types of petals?”

“…Sigh.”

Well, whatever.

I looked up at the large sunflower again.

“Sunflowers look like one big flower, but they’re actually a cluster of tiny flowers. It’s a characteristic of the Asteraceae family called a capitulum…”

“Wait, what? I don’t really get it.”

I gently pulled a shorter sunflower closer.

First, the flame-like petals surrounding the large bloom. These are called ray florets, and each one has its own reproductive organs like stamens and pistils. In other words, each petal is an independent flower.

Then there’s the bumpy part in the center called the receptacle. Some people think this is the stamen or pistil, but it’s actually another cluster of tiny flowers. These are called disc florets or tubular florets, and if you look closely, each one has its own small petals. Of course, they also have their own reproductive organs.

“Hmm? So, sunflowers aren’t one big house but more like an apartment building for tiny flowers?”

“Exactly. This way, a single insect can pollinate a huge number of flowers at once. It’s one of the reasons plants in the Asteraceae family can reproduce so prolifically.”

It felt refreshing to share some flower knowledge again. Lately, Himari’s gotten so used to flowers that I haven’t had many chances like this.

As I thought about sharing this with Enomoto-san later, I noticed Himari smiling at me.

“What’s up?”

“Nothing, I was just thinking… Yuu really loves flowers, huh?”

“Don’t tease me.”

“I’m not teasing! It’s nice to have something you love.”

I felt oddly persuaded, leaving me a little unsettled.

Well, whatever. For now, let’s enjoy these giant flowers. Being able to pick flowers like this is truly a once-a-year opportunity.

“More importantly, let’s secure some flowers quickly.”

The festival itself seemed to run for two consecutive days.

But since it’s first-come, first-served for the best flowers, coming on the first morning was a great decision. The people here seemed to be enthusiasts, probably aware of that too.

Carefully stepping into the field, I made my way through the narrow spaces between the plants, being careful not to damage the sunflowers.

Flowers grown by professionals really are beautiful. You can tell they’re nurtured with care. Delicacy and vitality coexist in these sunflowers, creating a striking contrast.

Araki-sensei once said that balance is crucial when choosing flowers.

If the flower is too big or the leaves are too dense, it’s no good. A flower with just the right balance is the one that thrives in human hands.

I scrutinized several sunflowers, looking for one that felt right. Each flower has its own personality, so it’s not easy.

“…………”

This one’s leaves are twisted, making it seem stubborn.

This one’s flower is too big, giving off an arrogant vibe.

(Oh, this one…)

Suddenly, one sunflower caught my eye.

It was so beautiful. Well, it wasn’t that different from the others, but for some reason, it stood out to me.

Its flower was perfectly round, and its leaves formed a beautiful oval. The petals were uniform in size, and the receptacle was neatly arranged. It felt like I’d seen this flower somewhere before.

(It’s perfect for Himari…)

I suddenly thought that.

My best friend. And the person I like.

I wanted to see Himari wear an accessory made from this flower. The thought made me feel oddly embarrassed.

I remembered what Enomoto-san said while looking at the album at Araki-sensei’s house.

“This feels so much like Hii-chan.”

That sunflower Christmas wreath.

The moment I saw the photo, I knew it was the one. Enomoto-san thought it was nice too.

That winter solo exhibition…

If I’m going to reclaim the 50 points I entrusted to Himari, now’s the only chance. And if I’m going to channel my feelings for Himari into this accessory, it has to be this sunflower.

As I felt a strong sense of certainty, Himari came around from the other row. She looked up at the sunflower and let out an impressed “Whoa.”

“This one’s nice. Are you picking this?”

“Yeah. I’m planning to pick a few more, but this one caught my eye for some reason.”

“Hehe. I saw your eyes light up earlier, so I thought, ‘Oh?’ But as expected of Yuu.”

“Am I some kind of space monster…?”

As usual, Himari’s way of thinking is beyond me.

Sometimes she feels even more like a weirdo than I do. Well, that’s part of what makes Himari great.

As I was thinking that, Himari suddenly muttered.

“Maybe I should’ve been born as a flower.”

“…Huh? What do you mean?”

When I turned around, Himari was smiling like, “Hmm? What’s up?” It seemed better to pretend I hadn’t heard it.

It felt like the usual Himari… but at the same time, it felt different today.

No, it’s probably just my imagination. Himari must be nervous too, with the stakes so high.

Right now, I need to focus on the accessory. If I can’t beat Kureha-san, I might lose these days with Himari too.

♢♢♢

When Yuu decided on the first sunflower, he looked so happy.

He had this really gentle smile, like he was cherishing the sunflower. It felt like he was overlapping it with the image of a girl he liked.

Was he thinking about Enocchi’s happy face?

Well, of course. Enocchi was the one who said sunflowers were nice in the first place.

He probably wanted to come here with Enocchi today.

Maybe he feels guilty about being here with me, like he’s cheating or something. Is that why he’s been so distant since this morning?

(I’ve heard that friendships between guys and girls fall apart when one of them gets a lover. It feels so true, and I hate it.)

I’d decided to stay in this best friend position until I achieved my dream.

I’d make my dream come true and make Yuu acknowledge me as his one and only. Then, I’d proudly take him for myself.

But if Yuu started dating Enocchi, I’d have to say goodbye before I even opened my shop.

(…Huh?)

A thought suddenly crossed my mind.

Wait, why am I still assuming they’re not dating?

What if they’re already secretly dating? Maybe they’ve been sneaking around together lately?

What if during lunch the other day, they were feeding each other and talking like this…?

“Enocchi, don’t you think we should tell Hii-chan about us soon???”

“No way♡ Before we tell her the truth, we have to make her suffer a little more♡”

“Hee-hee, you’re so evil~. As expected of my wicked queen☆”

“And who’s the one who made me this kind of woman, I wonder♡ (poking Yuu’s nose)”

Who even are you two?

I was so shaken that I could smell the early Heisei era vibes. Even though my mom loves idol school dramas, I don’t need that invading my delusions, thank you very much.

Calm down, Himari! Deep breaths! You’re a cool girl!

First, I need to confront Yuu about his relationship with Enocchi. …But is that even possible? The reason I’m feeling so unsettled is because Yuu won’t be honest with me, right?

No, no, why am I being so weak?

Have you forgotten my nickname? When it comes to handling boys, I’m the seasoned pro known as the “Enchantress.” Getting Yuu’s true feelings out of him is a piece of cake. Just a flick of my pinky!

So, let’s give it a try!

“Yu-Yuu, can I ask you something… huh?”

Even though I called out to Yuu’s back, there was no response.

He was still busy picking out the second sunflower.

Is he ignoring me? No, it’s not exactly ignoring, but it’s different.

He’s so focused on the flowers that he can’t see anything else. It’s Yuu’s bad habit, and it’s something I really love about him.

When we first arrived at the sunflower field, he was as excited as a kid, but once he started working, he became so calm. It’s like he forgot I was even here.

If I moved in front of Yuu now, I could enjoy his sparkling eyes like usual. Yuu really goes all in when it comes to flowers. No matter what other worries he has, they can’t interfere with this.

I don’t think even I or Enocchi could come between Yuu and his flowers.

(…What? Was I never Yuu’s number one to begin with?)

Come to think of it, the reason I started modeling for Yuu’s accessories was because I wanted those passionate eyes to be on me, even for a moment.

Being jealous of flowers… I must be crazy.

But at the same time, I can’t help but envy them.

I don’t have anything I can pour my heart into like that.

Kureha-san once said that my cuteness is a talent, but that’s not a weapon that can make me Yuu’s number one. Does being praised for something like that even make me happy?

Maybe I should’ve been born as a flower.

I wanted Yuu’s passionate eyes to look at me and carve the proof that I’m his into this body. That alone would’ve been enough to make me live happily until I withered away.

I threw my words at Yuu’s back.

“Yuu, the sunflowers are so beautiful.”

“…………”

As expected, my voice didn’t reach him.

“Next year, let’s invite Enocchi too.”

“…………”

Even though I knew it wouldn’t reach him, I kept throwing empty words.

Yuu stayed with his back to me, silently picking sunflowers. He reached for a tall sunflower, tilting his chin up as if to kiss it.

His eyes were burning with passion.

Even though he’s such a shy introvert, he becomes so passionate when he touches flowers. And yet, his hands are so gentle.

For a moment, I couldn’t help but feel like I couldn’t forgive that.

“…Yuu, I love you. Look at me, not the flowers.”

I threw out my true feelings, knowing they’d never reach him.

Being jealous of flowers… I must be crazy.

But isn’t it crazier not to go crazy over your first love?

I’m a cowardly girl.

I can only say my true feelings when I know they’ll never reach him.

I can only fight battles I know I can win.

Will the goddess of victory really smile on someone like me?

(Whatever. I’ll just go rest at the rest area over there…)

Just as I sighed and turned around—

“H-Himari…?”

It was Yuu’s voice.

When I turned back, my eyes met Yuu’s. He was holding a sunflower, standing in a position that made it seem like he was overlapping it with my figure. It looked like an artist holding up a pencil to sketch a model.

But his eyes had lost their passionate glow, and he was staring at me in a daze.

“…………”

“…………”

Huh?

It took me a moment to process the situation. During that time, we just stared at each other in silence.

Yuu was looking at me. Okay. I could understand that much.

But it didn’t make sense. When Yuu gets absorbed in flowers, he doesn’t respond to anything, no matter what. Even if I broke a vase next to him in the school science room, he wouldn’t notice.

And yet, for some reason, Yuu was looking at me.

Not only that, but his face was as red as an apple.

“…………”

Thump, thump, thump. My heart was pounding so loudly. To confirm what was happening, I carefully chose my words.

“Yuu… did you hear what I just said?”

At my question, Yuu awkwardly looked away.

“I was just checking if this flower matched your image… so I heard a little.”

The sunflower he was holding in his arms seemed to be staring right at me.

In my mind, I covered my face with both hands and screamed.

Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh!!

Calm down, calm down.

He said he only heard a little, right? So, he didn’t hear everything?

Then, what part did he hear? “I love you”? “Look at me, not the flowers”? Both are bad, aren’t they!?

What do I do, what do I do?

I never thought he’d hear me. And why just at this moment? Isn’t that weird? Goddess of victory, do you hate me!? Well, if I were you, I definitely wouldn’t let me win!

As I was freaking out by myself, Yuu suddenly sighed.

“…Haa. Himari, can you stop trying to make me laugh at times like this?”

“Huh?”

Yuu hid his red face but scratched his head bluntly.

“Right now, I’m picking flowers for the competition with Kureha-san, right? Even if it’s fine on the train, this isn’t the time to joke around and get in the way.”

“…………”

My chest tightened painfully.

I could clearly hear the sound of a crack running through my heart.

What’s that?

What’s that??

Is that how it’s going to be?

Even if I reach out with all my heart, will these feelings never reach him?

Even if I work so hard to open our shop, will it all just end up going to Enocchi?

Then, what am I working so hard for?

What’s the point of this life?

Is that really all I’m worth?

Okay, I know it’s my fault, but stilllll!!

Without thinking, I snatched the sunflower Yuu was holding.

“Ah, Himari!?”

I turned and ran into the sunflower field.

I didn’t even know what I was doing. My head was spinning like it was boiling over. Maybe it was heatstroke? But I was wearing a hat. I should’ve drunk more water. None of it mattered as my thoughts swirled chaotically.

“Himari, wait!”

Yuu was chasing me. Come to think of it, when we had our first big fight in May, we did something similar. Why did I run away back then…?

I weaved through the sunflowers. Yuu, being tall, had to crouch to keep up, which slowed him down.

(Ugh, what am I even doing!?)

My vision flickered. The contrast of yellow and green from the sunflowers dulled my senses. This had to be a dream. When I woke up, I’d be in my fluffy bed, waking up five minutes before my alarm, feeling smug about how cute I looked, and getting ready to go to the sunflower field with Yuu.

Precognitive dreams are real, huh? Nice. This way, I’ll be flawless in my best friend act today. I’ll never say I love him again. I can’t breathe. I’m going to die. Is this really a dream? My legs are shaking. My brain’s not getting enough oxygen. Ugh, I hate everything! I hate myself for not being able to handle this, and I hate Yuu for not loving me! I hate it, I hate it, I hate it!

(…Ah, I’m at my limit.)

My mind went blank, and I finally stopped running.

I realized the voices were distant. Yuu, who had been chasing me, was gone. At some point, I’d lost him. Haha, nice one, me…

I looked up at the sky, gasping for air.

The sea of sunflowers seemed to be staring at me. I suddenly remembered the story I made up at the café the other day.

Hidden by the curtain of sunflowers, Yuu and I disappeared from the world.

In the distance, I heard Yuu’s voice.

“Himari, where are you!?”

There were only two of us here.

Maybe now, he’d hear me.

“Yuu. I’m here.”

My voice was barely a whisper.

There was no way he could hear me.

There was no way he could find me with such a small voice.

“…………”

Silence fell.

Yuu’s voice, which I’d heard just moments ago, was gone. He must’ve gone to look somewhere else.

See? It’s impossible.

Even if the world ended and it was just the two of us left.

Yuu would still call me his best friend, and my voice would never reach him. That’s the fate we were born into.

(…Huh?)

But then, the sunflower next to me swayed.

For a brief moment, Yuu burst through, his face full of panic.

“Himari, there you are!”

He was covered in dirt, drenched in sweat, his clothes a mess, and he looked like he was about to cry. It was kind of funny.

He looked anything but cool, but my chest tightened anyway.

“Himari. You need to speak louder if you want me to hear you… huh?”

I grabbed the collar of Yuu’s hoodie and pulled him close.

Yuu’s face got closer and closer. Reflected in his eyes, I saw myself—my cheeks flushed, my eyes teary, my face feverish… I looked like a girl deeply in love.

“H-Himari? What are you doing?”

What am I doing?

This.

I’ll carve myself into his memory so he can never call this a joke again.

I gently removed the choker around my neck and placed it in Yuu’s hand.

I don’t need the ‘best friend’ ring anymore.

The last thing I saw was the vivid yellow of the sunflowers.

Watched by the silent flowers.

—I kissed Yuu.

♣♣♣

My memories after that are honestly hazy.

It’s like fragments burned away, and I only came back to my senses when we arrived at the school during summer break.

What I know for sure is that we headed back, carrying sunflowers and frozen gyoza as souvenirs. And at some point, Himari’s twinflower choker ended up in my hand.

So, in the school’s science room, I was alone, immediately starting to process the sunflowers. Flowers are best handled when they’re fresh.

My hands moved mechanically.

It was the first time in a while I’d used the largest equipment. After going through various steps, I finally filled the solution and submerged the sunflowers.

By the time I noticed, the sun was already setting outside the window.

From this morning, we’d traveled far, come back, and completed the first stage of flower processing.

What an incredibly dense day. Just today alone felt like a week’s worth of events. I got the best sunflowers, decided on the accessory motif, bought gyoza souvenirs for Saku-neesan, and even had my first kiss with a girl.

“…………”

I went to the corner of the science room and sat down, hugging my knees.

Covering my face with both hands, I let out a loud scream.

Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh!!

Why, why, why!?

Why did Himari do something like that!?

It was so confusing that my emotions were completely left behind! If I think about it, it’s bad… No, even without thinking, it’s bad, right!?

(Huh? What does this mean? That kind of thing!? What kind of thing is that!?)

My head was spinning, and I was completely confused.

I opened the steel shelf at the back of the science room and took out the LED planters lined up inside. These are great for growing plants indoors. Last time, Himari planted seeds and bulbs here, not just in the flowerbed. I lined up the small sprouts on a six-seater table and sat across from them.

“Let’s start an emergency meeting.”

I declared to the flowers.

Tsugumi (Cosmos) seemed to ask, “What’s the agenda?”

“H-Himari, she, uh… kissed me… and I want to know why…”

Mio (Colchicum) provocatively said, “Isn’t it obvious? Can’t you figure it out, kid?”

Well, yeah, normally I’d understand. Himari dates guys a lot, but she’s not the type to just kiss anyone. So, does that mean she kissed me because…?

Hinako (Cyclamen) timidly suggested, “But it’s Himari-chan we’re talking about, right? Isn’t it dangerous to take it at face value…?”

True, I fully agreed.

Since it’s Himari, I have to be wary of her setting up for a “Puhaha” moment. If I take this at face value and confess to her, things could get irreparably messy.

Kaoru (Saffron) laughed, “Who cares? She made the first move, so let’s just become the ‘hot best friend’ type!” …No, that’s not okay! What even is a ‘hot best friend’!?

“I was an idiot for consulting you guys…”

The flowers grumbled. Oh, sorry. I didn’t mean that. I’ll water you, so forgive me…

As I busily watered them, I heard a voice from behind.

“Natsu. Talking to flowers by yourself? Having fun?”

“…Oh. Makishima.”

I turned around to see Makishima in his uniform, leaning against the window frame.

He fanned himself with a folding fan and said, “Phew. The air conditioning here is heavenly.”

“Done with club activities for today?”

“Yeah. Nationals are in a little over two weeks. It’s not coming together as well as I’d like.”

“It’s rare for you to sound so down, Makishima.”

“Nah, I’m talking about the senpai. He and I are competing individually, but he’s not in top form for his last tournament.”

Come to think of it, Makishima and the former club captain made it to nationals this year.

Makishima closed his fan and scratched the back of his neck with it.

“It’s because he couldn’t go to nationals with his classmates. He probably feels bad about being the only one competing. In a good way, he’s kind. In a bad way, he lacks competitive spirit.”

“Well, you don’t seem to have that kind of problem.”

“Haha. I’m not that cold-hearted. I’d even go easy on him if we faced off at nationals. Though, if he went all out, I’d be completely outmatched.”

“Oh? He’s that strong?”

“He was originally scouted by a powerhouse school outside the prefecture. He’s the kind of idiot who prioritized his friends and youth over that.”

Makishima laughed and said, “Well, I don’t dislike him,” before climbing through the window into the science room. …Wait, the door’s open, you know?

Makishima walked up to the table and let out an impressed sound when he saw the sunflowers in the equipment.

“Another flashy piece, huh? Is this for sale?”

“You’ve heard about it from Kureha-san, right?”

“Ah, so it’s related to that. Nah, I don’t know. What’s going on?”

“…………?”

I tilted my head.

The conversation wasn’t quite connecting.

“You and Kureha-san are working together behind the scenes, right?”

“…………”

For some reason, Makishima made a disgusted face and stayed silent.

He opened his fan and hid his mouth behind it, avoiding my gaze as he muttered.

“This time, I’m not involved.”

“Really?”

That was a bit surprising.

His name had come up, so I thought he was pulling strings behind the scenes. Sensing my thoughts, Makishima clicked his tongue in annoyance.

“I tried to team up, but I just got used for information and then tossed aside. Her style suits solo play. Allies are just a hindrance to her.”

“Kureha-san’s style…?”

“Selfishness and beating people with wads of cash.”

“Ah…”

That does sound like her…

It was a different kind of fear compared to Saku-neesan or Hibari-san, but his words finally put it into perspective.

“I tried to act all cool about it to Himari-chan, but in reality, I’m just a background character. I have to focus on nationals anyway, so it’s convenient in a way…”

He laughed self-deprecatingly, “Hahahaha!”

I thought for a moment. I’d assumed Makishima was on her side, so I’d given up. But if that’s not the case, things change.

“Makishima. If you’re not involved, could you help me convince Kureha-san to give up on Himari…?”

“I can’t do that.”

He said it flatly.

It seemed he’d anticipated this. When I glared at him, he smirked smugly.

“Well, yeah. From my perspective, it’s better if Himari goes to Tokyo. It’ll help get Enomoto-san and you together.”

“That’s part of it, but this time, it’s not really relevant.”

“What do you mean?”

Makishima shrugged.

“It’s the weakness of being in love. I can’t become Kureha-san’s enemy.”

“…………”

For a while, only the hum of the air conditioner filled the science room. Outside, I could hear the cheerful voices of girls returning from club activities.

“Wait, what!?”

“Don’t be so surprised. Even I have someone I genuinely like.”

That’s not the point!

Feeling a strange sense of guilt, I averted my gaze from Makishima and said,

“I thought you liked Enomoto-san…”

“Why would you think that? I’ve said I’m supporting Rin-chan’s love, haven’t I?”

“Like, you’re stepping back because you love her, and you’re supporting her love to move on… something complicated like that?”

Makishima scoffed.

“Natsu. You’re more of a romantic than I thought, huh? You don’t see that kind of thing much in shoujo manga these days.”

“Shut up!? With how obsessed you are, it’s natural to think that!”

Makishima laughed gleefully.

Then he tapped his fan against his hand.

“What I owe Rin-chan is something else. You don’t need to know.”

“Well, I don’t really care, but…”

“If you found out, it might completely change your impression of Rin-chan. I can’t just casually tell you that.”

“Make up your mind!? Do you want to tell me or not!?”

Now I’m curious!

Is this how the guy in The Crane Wife felt when he peeked? As I slumped in exasperation, Makishima’s tone shifted.

“So, Natsu. What about you?”

“What? What do you mean?”

“Come on, don’t play dumb. You listened to my embarrassing story, so it’s only fair, right, my friend?”

“Hey, don’t act like I begged to hear your story when you just blurted it out…”

He suddenly slung an arm around my shoulder. Huh? What’s this? Isn’t this too close? I don’t really like getting too touchy with guys.

Even though it was just the two of us, Makishima opened his fan and whispered in my ear.

“So, what’s this about you kissing Himari-chan?”

“Bwah!?”

I spat out.

I fell back, scrambling away like a spider. My back hit the steel shelf, and the equipment inside rattled.

“D-Did I really say that much?”

“You said it loud and clear. You should be more careful when talking to flowers.”

Makishima chuckled gleefully, tapping his fan as he crept closer.

He pointed the tip of the fan at my nose, sending a chill down my spine.

“So? Did you confess?”

“No, it’s not like that… We went to get sunflowers today, and… she kept talking about Enomoto-san, and then suddenly…?”

“Oh ho~?”

Ah, Makishima’s eyes are sparkling.

I probably shouldn’t have said that. Well, it’s too late now…

Makishima snapped his fan open, struck a mysterious pose, and let out a triumphant laugh.

“Hahahaha! This is great! I thought I wouldn’t get a chance with Kureha-san around, but things just got interesting. Opportunities arise in the midst of change, after all.”

“You’re really fired up, huh…”

This must be what they mean by a fish back in water…

“Hey, Makishima. Honestly, what does Himari think of me…?”

“How should I know? You’re not a kid wetting the bed anymore, figure it out yourself.”

“That’s harsh!?”

Makishima, you’re supposed to be my friend, right?

As I looked like I was about to cry, Makishima sighed in annoyance. He tapped the tip of his fan against my chest and smirked.

“Either way, you’re not skilled enough to go back to pretending to be just friends with Himari-chan, are you? So, isn’t it pointless to think about her true feelings?”

“…………”

That’s… a valid point. Or rather, it’s exactly the kind of thing I needed to hear. That’s just how Makishima is.

Right. Maybe Himari’s true feelings don’t matter. Maybe I just wanted someone to push me forward.

“Makishima. Thanks.”

“No need to thank me. You’ll probably be furious with me soon enough.”

“…Uh, please go easy on me.”

His jokes are really hard to read. …Wait, is he serious? I don’t know anymore. Whatever.

After Makishima left with a “See ya,” I sat alone in the science room, deep in thought.

But first, I have to win the competition with Kureha-san. If I don’t, I might lose Himari for good.

All I can do is what I always do.

Just make the best accessory. That’s all.

♢♢♢

The famous gyoza from Mawatari in my hometown!

Its defining feature is undoubtedly the slightly thick and chewy skin. When you fry it until it’s crispy, you get to enjoy this heavenly duet of crispy and chewy textures. Of course, the filling is super juicy and amazing. I love it too!

Ah, here it is. Chewy, chewy. Chewy, chewy. Chewy, chewy…… Chewy, chewy…… Chewy…… Chew…… Chewy…… Chew…… Chewy…… Chew……

“…Himari?”

“Huh?”

My mom was looking at me with a somewhat worried expression.

She’s a cool beauty with much more Western blood than me. She’s almost 50, but she could easily pass as early 30s with her unbeatable youthfulness.

That mom of mine looked at me like she was seeing something eerie and said,

“…You’re eating all the gyoza meant for your brothers, you know?”

“Huh?”

No, no, there’s no way.

All of you might not know this, but around here, I’m known as a fairy-like girl. A beautiful girl like me eating all the gyoza meant for the whole family? That’s a compliance issue, isn’t it… Wait, what the heck!? The mountain of gyoza that was just here is gone!?

Did all of that go into my stomach? No way, right? In my chopsticks was the last gyoza. My mom’s eyes were pleading, “If you eat that, your brothers are going to get mad, you know?”

I took a bite. After the chewiness came the burst of juicy meat flavor. Gyoza, the best.

“Whew!”

Signaling that I was done, I stood up.

Trying to leave the kitchen, I tripped spectacularly. My mom behind me was staring in stunned silence. Escaping her gaze, I scrambled back to my room on all fours.

I made it to my room.

I dove onto my bed and rolled around.

Staring at the beautifully grained ceiling, I absentmindedly traced my lips with my fingers. My neck felt cool without my choker.

“…Whew.”

I did it.

I did it…

I did it.

I flopped facedown, pressing my face into the pillow with a puff.

Uheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!

This isn’t a dream!

It’s not a dream or a joke!

Why!?

Why couldn’t I resist!?

It’s Yuu’s fault! We were finally hanging out alone, but he kept thinking about Enocchi the whole time. Today, the one in front of him was me!

My phone suddenly caught my eye.

Oh, a new Line message! From Yuu… Give it to me already~! Send it properly~! I don’t need info about new stamps right now~ ~!

But can I really send something myself?

What kind of face am I supposed to make when I send it? What should I even send? “Was my lips or the gyoza skin chewier?” Am I an idiot!? Where in the world is there a high school girl comparing the texture of gyoza skin to her lips~…

My mom yelled from behind the door, “Himari, you’re being noisy!”

I deflated and went quiet.

But my feelings were still smoldering, and I wasn’t satisfied at all.

(…I’m definitely hated now.)

Of course I am. Kissing someone when you know they like another girl? I’m such a loser, I have no chill.

Plus, the match with Kureha-san is in trouble too.

What do I do? Yuu’s mental state is probably wrecked now. Before the match with Kureha-san, what kind of mess have I made…

If my brother finds out, he’ll kill me. No, forget it. Let’s just die. Let me breathe my last at the greatest moment of my life. Then, the world will mourn the death of its beautiful girl, and my autobiography will become a best-selling novel, creating a social phenomenon adapted into a movie raking in tons of money. But the pain of not being able to cast an actress cuter than me? Well, it can’t be helped. After all, there’s no one cuter than me in this world. Puhahahahaha!

…Now’s not the time for that.

As I retorted to myself, there was a knock on my door.

“Himari? Are you awake?”

“H-Huh!?”

Speak of the devil, it’s my brother!

He’s home earlier than usual! I’m not mentally prepared at all!

Probably Mom told him I was acting weird, so he came to check on me. This is bad, bad, bad! No way he’ll fall for any excuses!

(In this case… I’ll run away!)

I got up from my bed, grabbed my phone and wallet, and reached for the window.

I’ll hide somewhere tonight… but where? Yuu’s place is definitely out! Enocchi’s place… no way, idiot!

Ugh, whatever! I’ll just escape to McDonald’s or something…

I jerked the window open.

“Himari. Where do you think you’re going?”

“Huhhhhhhhh!?”

Why is my brother outside the window!?

No way! Didn’t he just call from behind the door!?

I fell backward, landing on my butt in the room. My brother smiled gently and stepped inside… Wait, come in through the door, at least!

“Himari, what’s wrong?”

“Uh, huh…”

“I see. Today, during the sunflower picking, Yuu-kun’s indecisive attitude made you snap, and you impulsively kissed him. And now you’re scared I’ll scold you, right?”

How does he know!?

You didn’t follow us all day, right!?

I’m done for. It’s over. Once my brother finds out, I’m dead. I can’t even support Yuu’s accessory business anymore. Instead, I just keep causing problems. I’ll probably lose my position as his business partner and be neatly wrapped up and delivered to Kureha-san…

While I trembled, waiting for my fate, my brother thought deeply with a serious face. Then he muttered, “Hmm…”

“Well, what’s done is done. Let’s move forward.”

“…Huh?”

His quick verdict of innocence made me blink in surprise.

My brother tilted his head curiously.

“What’s wrong?”

“Uh, huh…”

“Hahaha. No need to worry. You should be praised for honestly expressing your feelings. Though your method was a bit forceful.”

“Huh…?”

…Why? This is unreal.

Wait, my brother’s in a really good mood. Did something good happen at work today?

My brother flashed a bright smile.

“Besides, if you get rejected, I’ll happily take over. No problem at all!”

“Huhhh…”

Oh right. That’s who he is.

My brother patted my shoulder and said gently,

“Also, creativity reflects the creator’s life. Yuu-kun gaining new experiences is a good thing in the long run.”

“Uh, huh…”

With that, he left the room through the door.

“Now, I’ll go get some dinner. The smell of gyoza has been making me hungry. Hahaha!”

Watching my brother leave cheerfully, I flopped onto the floor.

Phew, I’m saved… I think?

Wow, being alive is great. Of course it is. I can’t die at this age! Even if the movie rakes in tons of money, it’s meaningless if I’m not there!

Anyway, I need to plan now. Because meeting Yuu right now would be super awkward!

I psyched myself up and opened my laptop. Hmm… First, I’ll check Yuu’s situation casually, and then… huh?

I turned to look at the door my brother had left through.

Did I forget something…? Oh, the gyoza.

Instinctively, I put my foot on the open window. Escape. My survival instincts screamed. But deep down, I knew. There’s no escaping my brother.

The moment I thought that, the door to my room opened again☆

♣♣♣

The day after the sunflower gathering.

I was alone in the science room, continuing my work.

I observed the sunflowers soaked in ethanol. Honestly… I couldn’t tell how they were doing.

It seemed like they might be done, but also not… Ugh, I can’t tell! Well, more like I’ve been distracted by Himari’s face since yesterday.

It’s too awkward to message her, and she hasn’t reached out either. Even if I tell myself I don’t care about her response, I’m not that detached.

No, focus. Focus. You can do it, Yuu.

“Yuu-kun. Good afternoon.”

“Whoa-ah!?”

It was Enomoto-san.

She popped her face in front of me, staring directly at me. Too cute.

“Oh, Enomoto-san, good afternoon. What about the band?”

“It’s lunch break, so I came to check on you.”

“Ah, s-sorry. We were supposed to have lunch together, weren’t we…”

Enomoto-san placed her lunchbox on the table and sat across from me. She peered at the sunflowers submerged in the solution.

“Wow, the color’s fading… Are you taking them out now?”

“Still deciding. Even if the surface has lost its color, I’m not sure if the core has too. If I move to the next step halfway, it might cause issues later…”

Enomoto-san nodded and took notes on her phone.

As serious as ever…

“But with tulips, you took them out after about a day, right?”

“Yeah, but sunflowers are harder to preserve.”

“Is that so?”

“The flowers are too big. The bigger they are, the longer it takes for the solution to penetrate. But soaking them too long isn’t good either.”

“Huh. That’s pretty tricky…”

She carefully examined the four sunflowers one by one.

“Did you pick these with Hii-chan yesterday?”

I instinctively flinched.

Enomoto-san gave me a curious look, so I hurriedly coughed to cover it up.

“Y-yeah. At the sunflower field…”

“Did you kiss Hii-chan while picking them?”

“No, it was more like picking sunflowers and then kissing Himari… Ugh!”

I glanced over to see Enomoto-san opening a bottle of iced tea with a blank expression.

Without changing her expression, she suddenly positioned the bottle cap on her finger like a catapult. The cap seemed to smirk at me.

She flicked it with her index finger!

“Take this!”

“Ouch!?”

The bottle cap hit my forehead with perfect accuracy.

I let my guard down because it wasn’t her Iron Claw. But seriously, that strength from working at the pastry shop is insane.

Rubbing my forehead, I cautiously asked,

“…Did you hear about it from Makishima?”

“Yup.”

That guy… No, I won’t say it. I already knew Makishima was like that, and it’s my fault for telling him in the first place.

More importantly, I was planning to tell Enomoto-san everything anyway. Everything I’m about to do.

Enomoto-san skewered a cherry tomato with her chopsticks and spun it in the air. She swung her legs and sighed.

“I wish I’d gone too… I wouldn’t have lost to Hii-chan…”

“…That’s a really hard comment to respond to.”

Sorry, but if Himari had a meltdown with Enomoto-san around, it would’ve been a disaster.

“Hey, Enomoto-san…”

“Hmm?”

My heart was pounding.

I was incredibly nervous as I brought it up.

“I’m going to tell Himari how I feel properly.”

“…………”

Enomoto-san kept her usual slightly displeased expression.

As I waited anxiously for her response, she casually bit into the cherry tomato.

“Sounds good.”

“Huh, you’re okay with it?”

“Would it be better if I wasn’t?”

“Ah, no. Thank you…”

Uhh… This is really throwing me off.

Didn’t she say she liked me? Is this really okay? Or has she already given up on me? Am I just embarrassing myself with this one-sided thing?

As I agonized, Enomoto-san chuckled.

“Because whether you and Hii-chan get together or not doesn’t matter to me.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“I didn’t like you because you weren’t dating Hii-chan. Even if you’d been dating her from the start, I probably still would’ve said I liked you.”

“…………”

Now that I think about it, Enomoto-san’s always been like this…

I wish I could have even a fraction of that iron heart.

“I’ll just work on becoming Hii-chan’s best friend and get her to hand you over on mutually agreed terms. Staying true to my original goal.”

“Isn’t that more of a tribute system based on hierarchy than friendship…?”

Enomoto-san proudly puffed out her chest.

“By researching Hii-chan as a case study, I’ll climb to even greater heights.”

“What does that mean…?”

“The results of this incident reveal that you’re the type who combines romantic and friendship brains into one. So, I think my usual approach won’t work. From now on, my priority is to secure a special position within the ‘you’ team by targeting your friendship brain—”

“Are you serious!?”

I thought Enomoto-san was just mentally strong, but maybe she’s just the type who thrives in adversity. The pressure is intense, but her bold declarations are kinda cute.

“Well, I’ll head back to band practice.”

“Got it. Good luck.”

After finishing her lunch, Enomoto-san stood up.

Just as she opened the door, she bumped into Himari, who was about to knock.

“…………”

“…………”

“…………”

Wow, the tension is thick!!

It was a complete surprise. The science room was enveloped in an awkward silence.

What do I do? Well, I feel like I’ve been completely thrown off. Even if Enomoto-san weren’t here, I doubt we’d be able to talk normally.

The first to move was… Enomoto-san. Her right hand grabbed Himari’s head.

“Judgment.”

At that moment, Himari let out a loud, pitiful scream!

“Eekkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!?”

She then dragged Himari into the hallway, casually tapping her hands together as if to say, “Another nuisance taken care of…” With a refreshed smile, she coolly said, “Yuu-kun, I’ll come back after practice,” and left.

“…………”

Seriously, Enomoto-san, you’re definitely mad, right!?

I’m so glad she didn’t use her Iron Claw on me…!!

“Anyway, Himari. Are you okay…?”

“O-of course I’m not… Enocchi was serious today… I thought I was gonna die…”

So she’s been holding back all this time…

As I felt a terror that wasn’t entirely unrelated to me, Himari walked in, holding her head.

“…………”

“…………”

Silence.

Thanks to Enomoto-san (?), the tension had eased a bit, but it was still awkward. Himari hasn’t made eye contact since she came in. …And now that she’s acting like this, I’m even more self-conscious.

Himari tried to act normal while looking at the sunflower setup.

“Ah, haha. Yuu, it looks like things are going really well. Seems like you’ll have no problem with the match against Kureha-san…”

“Hey, Himari.”

Before she could say more, I interrupted.

Himari flinched and plopped down on a chair. She bit her lip, waiting for my words like she was about to be scolded.

“I’m not going to pretend yesterday didn’t happen.”

“…!?”

Her body stiffened.

She looked… no, she looked like she was about to cry. She’s probably misunderstanding something again. Probably thinking, “Is he going to disband our partnership!?”

I hurriedly told her what I’d decided.

“So, uh… After I win the match against Kureha-san, there’s something I want to ask you.”

“…………”

Even I think this is too clichéd… But I couldn’t think of anything else. There’s no way someone as popular as Himari wouldn’t understand what these words imply.

Her face turned bright red, and she started looking around nervously… Eventually, she covered her mouth with both hands and responded in a small voice, “…Okay.”

“…………”

“…………”

Man, this is so awkward!!

Of course it is. I haven’t even confessed properly yet, so it’s not like Himari can give me a proper response.

I knew what I wanted to say, but I completely forgot to think about what comes after.

W-what do I do? Uh, well… Ugh, whatever. Let’s just show her the sunflowers!

Trying to hide my panic, I carefully opened the setup and took out the sunflowers soaked in the solution.

In the end, it was a good move.

Himari’s interest shifted to the flowers. She examined them closely and asked me,

“Yuu. What are you planning to make with these?”

“…………”

Hesitating slightly, I answered.

“A sunflower tiara.”

A tiara.

A decorative headpiece primarily worn by women for formal occasions. As the name suggests, it’s usually reserved for special events.

A tiara for Himari.

The meaning behind it is, well, obvious. And even in response to my overly serious proposal, Himari smiled, looking a little happy.

“That’s nice.”

That smile was even cuter than the one she had at the middle school exhibition… I couldn’t help but think.