Chapter 3 | Asanagi Umi and Amami Yuu

 

The following week, Monday. For most people—students, workers—it’s the gloomy start of the week. Naturally, that applies to me too, but today, for some reason, I was feeling even more down than everyone else.

“…I wonder if it’ll be okay.”

While gazing at the silhouette of our school, built on a leveled hill, from midway along the commute, I let out a sigh all by myself.

The reason, of course, was what happened last weekend.

I ended up saying something unnecessary to Amami-san and her group. The more time passes, the more embarrassed I feel every time I recall that scene.

“…Sorry, but there’s absolutely no way.”

“Ugh…”

I know it’s my own fault.

It’s too late to regret it now, but for a mere loner like me, why did I have to act so high and mighty with that know-it-all tone?

“There’s no way I can step into the classroom… The vibe’s gonna turn sour the moment I do.”

Amami-san probably has Asanagi covering for her, but the rest of our classmates won’t let it slide that easily.

I imagine it. The group that was cheerfully chatting in their little circle suddenly glaring at me like I’m trash the second I walk in, treating me with outright hostility.

From being the class’s irrelevant “background air” to the unmistakable “outcast.”

Maybe I’m overthinking it a bit, or maybe it’ll just end up as pointless worrying.

At times like this, if I had someone to talk to, it’d probably lighten my mood a lot.

“Someone to talk to…”

Well, there’s Asanagi, at least. Outside of my parents, she’s the only real friend registered in my phone’s contacts.

If I asked Asanagi, she’d definitely listen. She might tease me a bit, but she’s so earnest and serious that I trust her on that front.

Still, leaning on Asanagi so easily with this didn’t feel quite right to me.

At school, Asanagi’s someone everyone relies on—Amami-san, our classmates, even our homeroom teacher. She’s a top student, well-mannered, the class’s model honor student.

But I know the truth. Even Asanagi sometimes wants to break free from her usual role and act a little carefree.

I remember what Asanagi told me last week.

She’d found someone who coincidentally shared her hobby, mustered the courage to talk to me and become friends, and finally found a refuge there—yet I can’t just lean on her like that. If I did, Asanagi wouldn’t have anywhere to escape to anymore.

Well, that’s just an excuse. In the end, I just don’t have the guts to contact Asanagi over something this trivial.

“—Hey, morning!”

“Morn… ing.”

I quietly replied to the PE teacher greeting students at the gate and headed to the classroom. It was almost time for morning homeroom. Except for a few kids still at morning practice, pretty much everyone was already there.

Keeping my presence as close to “nothing” as possible, I slipped into my seat.

So far, it didn’t seem like the disaster I’d imagined was happening.

“Maehara-kun, you’re a bit late today, huh?”

“Morning… I kinda overslept.”

My little chat with Ooyama-kun was as usual, and I didn’t hear any weird gossip either.

If the day could just end peacefully like this, that’d be great.

That’s what I thought—right until that moment.

“…Um, Maehara-kun, can I talk to you for a sec?”

As I sat down and put my textbooks away, Amami-san approached me, her soft blonde hair swaying gently.

In an instant, the lively classroom went dead silent.

“Huh? M-Me…?”

She’d called my name, so it had to be me, but I couldn’t help asking back anyway.

Curious stares from the whole class zeroed in on me.

The most beautiful girl in the class—heck, probably the whole grade—wanting to talk to the undisputed loner? That’s gotta sum up how everyone felt right then.

As the one involved, I’d rather they spare me, but to everyone else watching, it was pure intrigue.

“Sorry for springing this on you. I was hoping we could chat about what happened last Friday… Is that okay?”

“No, it’s not like it’s a problem, but…”

—Huh? What? What’s going on?

—No idea, man.

As my classmates whispered in their little groups, I glanced at Asanagi for a split second.

I don’t know what Asanagi talked about with Amami-san over the weekend, but she probably advised her to apologize ASAP.

Asanagi made an apologetic gesture toward me with a wry face—meaning even she didn’t expect Amami-san to do this.

“I really upset you back then, and I’m so sorry. I don’t know anything about you, Maehara-kun, yet I just assumed you’d have more fun hanging out with everyone and said something so thoughtless.”

“N-No, I’m the one who should apologize. I knew you didn’t mean any harm, Amami-san, but I couldn’t help saying it like that. You don’t need to go out of your way to say sorry.”

She must’ve been really bothered by it, because Amami-san’s expression visibly drooped, clear as day.

I’d rather she not care about me—or better yet, just leave me alone—but to her, that’s probably unacceptable.

She’s not a bad person by any means, and that’s one of her good points, but shaking off Asanagi’s restraint and stirring up unnecessary rumors isn’t exactly ideal.

“So, will you forgive me? You’re not mad anymore, right?”

“Y-Yeah. I’m not mad, and I’ve been thinking I might’ve gone too far back then too. So, uh, I’m the one who should say sorry.”

“No, no way! I’m the one who’s sorry.”

As both Amami-san and I bowed our heads at the same time, the chime signaling the end of the break rang, and our homeroom teacher stepped into the room.

If this kept up, it’d turn into an “No, I’m sorry” “No, I am” apology battle, so the timing was perfect to cut it off.

“Alright, everyone, take your seats… Huh, it’s awfully quiet in here. Something up?”

The teacher looked puzzled, but most of the class probably felt the same.

That’s how shocking the scene just now must’ve been.

Naturally, that includes me, one of the people involved.

“Anyway, I’m not bothered by it, so let’s just call it done, okay?”

“Yeah! Thanks, Maehara-kun! Oh, but I kinda wanna talk a bit more… Are you free today?”

“Huh? Well, yeah, I guess…”

Weekends aside, I don’t have any plans today. Or probably ever, for that matter.

“Then it’s settled! I’ll let you know when later… Uh, the number you gave me last time’s still good, right?”

“Eh?”

“Fue?”

The moment Amami-san let that slip, it was like another bomb dropped in the classroom.

—Wait, seriously? Did you hear that?

—That guy knows Amami-san’s number?

—Today wasn’t their first talk!?

—Man, I’m so jealous…

The not-so-subtle whispers reached my ears. She probably let it slip without thinking, but that was one detail too many.

“Huh? Huh? Did I just say something bad?”

“Amami-san, that was supposed to be a secret…”

“…Oh!”

She seemed to realize, but the first time we talked wasn’t Friday at the arcade—it was a bit earlier, behind the storage shed.

I’d apologized to Asanagi and gotten her forgiveness for secretly watching, but the fact I was with Amami-san was a secret, and Asanagi didn’t know we’d swapped numbers either.

So what I was really afraid of wasn’t the class, but—

“Haha… Anyway, see you later!”

“Y-Yeah.”

After Amami-san trotted back to her seat with cute little steps, my phone buzzed in my pocket almost instantly.

No need to guess who it was from. The sender was already pulling out her textbook, staring at the blackboard.

(Asanagi: OK)

Seeing Asanagi’s message, a small “Hic” escaped my throat.

I’d definitely have to apologize sincerely later… but would Asanagi forgive me even with a full-on dogeza?

The morning incident quickly became the class’s hot topic for the day.

Homeroom ended, lunch passed, and even now after school, the curious stares and whispers—some borderline gossip—hadn’t stopped… In fact, they’d only gotten worse as time went on.

Truth is, my only connection with Amami-san was being there by chance when Asanagi was confessed to. I gave her my number, but we hadn’t talked beyond that until recently.

—Hey, what’s the deal with Amami-san and that guy?

—So unexpected. Are they secretly dating or something?

—No way, that’s impossible.

—Then what’s with last week?

—Beats me. Some love triangle mess? Nah, that’s too far-fetched.

They didn’t care about the truth, just spinning wild fantasies about me and Amami-san all day long. Man, some people have too much free time.

“Sorry to keep you waiting, Maehara-kun! Let’s go!”

“Oh, uh, sure…”

Amami-san’s voice must’ve reached her ears too, but she ignored the noise completely and came over to me with her usual dazzling smile.

…And right beside her, naturally, was Asanagi.

“…Sorry. I figured it’d be weird with just the two of us, so I hope you don’t mind me tagging along as Yuu’s escort.”

“…Yeah, I don’t mind at all.”

Actually, I’d be in trouble if Asanagi weren’t here.

I can talk casually with Asanagi since we’re friends, but that’s because it’s her. With Amami-san, it’s a different story.

“Sorry, Maehara-kun. I get nervous alone with a boy… Oh, but Umi’s super tight-lipped, so don’t worry!”

“I see.”

That’s something I trust without question.

After all, she’s kept our secret friendship hidden even from her best friend.

“So, that’s the deal. Looking forward to it, Maehara-kun?”

“Y-Yeah, looking forward to it, Asanagi… san.”

We shook hands, playing up the “first time talking” vibe.

…Her grip feels kinda strong. No, it hurts. It really hurts, so please let go soon.

With my hand taking serious damage, I ended up heading home with “the class’s cutest girl” and “the second cutest girl”—the three of us together.

From the left, it’s “Amami-san,” “me,” “Asanagi,” sandwiched between two beauties.

Part of me kinda wants to bolt, but being stuck between them limits my movement.

“Hey, Yuu.”

“Yeah… Man, Nina-chi’s the same as ever.”

“Huh? Nitta-san?”

(She’s tailing us from behind. She’s doing a good job, though.)

Asanagi muttered quietly in my ear.

Sure enough, I could just barely spot a ponytail with a scrunchie peeking out from a shadow a little ways back.

I hadn’t noticed until Asanagi pointed it out, but to these two who know her, it was obvious. Well, that’s normal for friends, I guess.

(Hmm… Guess we’ll have to pull that one, sorry Nina-chi. …Umi.)

(Yeah.)

Amami-san and Asanagi, with me in the middle, were whispering about something.

Seems like they had a plan brewing.

(You two planning something against Nitta-san?)

(Huh? Just escaping, that’s all.)

(If we’re being tailed, we shake her off. Obviously, right?)

(Is it obvious…?)

Still, being followed isn’t exactly pleasant, so I decided to go along with them.

(At that T-junction up there, we split up and dash. Me and Maehara-kun go left, Yuu goes right.)

(Got it. Oh, where do we meet up? If it’s a shop around here, options are limited.)

Location, huh. For students, it’d probably be some family restaurant, but Nitta-san would obviously know those too.

A place our classmates don’t know, where the three of us can talk without worrying about prying eyes…

(…How about my place?)

(Huh? Maehara-kun’s house?)

(Yeah. It’s close, and no one else knows it. My parents won’t be home at this hour either.)

Mom’s at work and won’t be back till late. It’s not a bad setup, all things considered. I’ve even tidied up a bit since Asanagi started coming over.

(…Umi, what do you think?)

(Well, Maehara-kun doesn’t seem to mean any harm, so I’m fine with it.)

It’s free and practical, I thought, but their reactions weren’t exactly enthusiastic.

(Huh? Did I say something weird?)

(Oh, no, it’s not that! It’s just…)

(Yuu’s just saying it’s kinda weird to suddenly invite girls to your house.)

(S-Stop it, Umi…!)

(Oh.)

Asanagi’s comment made it click. Officially, this is supposed to be my first real talk with Asanagi, and it’s about the same with Amami-san.

Inviting them to a private space out of nowhere when we’re barely friends isn’t exactly normal. Come to think of it, Asanagi’s jabbed me about this before.

(Sorry, I didn’t mean it like that… I just thought it’d be convenient, and it slipped out.)

(No, it’s fine! We don’t doubt you, Maehara-kun. I was just surprised, that’s all. I’ve never been to a boy’s house before.)

Even so, Amami-san’s ears were bright red. I figured she’d have some tolerance since she chats with guys in class, but she seems to draw a firm line here.

(Then it’s settled. We’ll meet at Maehara-kun’s place at 5 PM. I’ll go with him first, so I’ll text you the location later.)

(Got it!)

(…Alright, here we go. One, two, three!)

At Asanagi’s signal, me and Asanagi, plus Amami-san, split into two groups and bolted.

“Ah! They’re running! Wait up!”

Nitta-san’s voice echoed behind us, but this residential area’s got twisty streets. Once we turn a corner and lose her, catching up’s near impossible.

“Who’d listen to some paparazzi? Come on, Maehara, this way!”

“H-Hey—”

Asanagi grabbed my hand so naturally it felt seamless, and we ran side by side down the sunset-orange path home.

“Asanagi.”

“What?”

“You look like you’re having fun.”

“Do I? Must be your imagination.”

Not sure if it was from running or nerves, but Asanagi’s hand, half a step ahead pulling mine, felt slightly damp.

After successfully ditching Nitta-san and getting home, I was prepping some snacks with Asanagi when the intercom at the entrance buzzed.

“Yoohoo, Maehara-kun! Amami Yuu has arrived!”

On the intercom screen, Amami-san’s bright, cute smile filled the frame.

She must’ve run hard—some of her bangs were stuck to her forehead with sweat.

“Sorry, I’ll unlock it now. The door’s open, so just come in.”

“Okay!”

I unlocked it and waited for Amami-san. The room’s a bit messy with sudden guests, but it can’t be helped. I tossed what looked like Mom’s strewn pajamas into the washer and cleared the living room table.

“Maehara, where’s the dishware? Shouldn’t we put the snacks on plates?”

“Top shelf of the cabinet next to the fridge has the guest stuff. There should be cups and saucers nearby too, so grab enough for everyone.”

“Got it.”

Asanagi and I split the work to set up the bare minimum for hosting.

Asanagi’s a guest too, so she could’ve just relaxed on the sofa,

“I’ll help too,”

she said, so I let her pitch in.

“Excuse me~! Oh, so this is Maehara-kun’s place.”

“Sorry it’s so cramped. It’s just me and my mom here.”

“Oh, sorry! I didn’t mean to be rude again… This is my first time doing this, so I just blurted it out.”

Amami-san said, her cheeks tinting slightly as she looked down.

Her reaction felt so fresh and innocent.

“…What’s that look, Maehara-kun? Got something to say to me?”

“Huh? N-No, what’re you talking about?”

Asanagi, lounging on the sofa, shot me a half-lidded stare. She’d poked around the place curiously the first few times she came over, but now she’s totally at home.

Still, since this is her “first visit” (officially), I gave her a quick glance to play it safe and guided Amami-san to the living room table.

“Wow, a cookie tin! I love these. They feel kinda fancy.”

“Really? It’s just something we got for guests, so help yourself.”

“For real? Awesome! Hey, Umi, eat with me!”

“Sure, sure. But wipe your sweat first—here’s a handkerchief.”

“Thanks… Hey, I can do this much myself. Stop treating me like a kid.”

“High schoolers are still kids. And wash your hands before eating.”

“Jeez… Hmph.”

Asanagi casually looked after a pouting Amami-san.

It’s a scene I’ve seen at school plenty of times, but this must be their usual dynamic. They’re like sisters.

Asanagi fussing over Amami-san, and Amami-san sulking but letting her do it.

With their looks, it made for a pretty picturesque moment.

“Amami-san, what about drinks? Coffee, tea… or we’ve got green tea too.”

“Hmm, coffee then. Oh, and I’d love lots of sugar and milk. I’m not great with bitter stuff.”

“Got it. Oh yeah, you’re big on sweets, right?”

“Yeah! Wait, did you actually remember my self-introduction?”

“Uh… yeah, I guess. You really stood out back then, Amami-san.”

I put the kettle on and started prepping the coffee.

Amami-san likes it with tons of sugar and milk, I’ll take just sugar, and Asanagi prefers it bitter, so just milk for her—

“Hey, Umi. You didn’t ask for yours? Maehara-kun’s already making yours too.”

“…”

The second Amami-san said that, I froze with my back to them.

Crap. I got so used to it that I forgot I’m supposed to ask Asanagi’s preference too.

I suggested coming here myself, yet I’m not fully playing the “barely know Asanagi” part right.

“Hm? Oh, I asked before you got here. Coffee, no sugar, with milk. Right, Maehara-kun?”

“! Y-Yeah, that’s right.”

Asanagi swooped in to cover for me while I was panicking. Since we got here first, it doesn’t sound off. Nice save.

“So, we’re here to talk about last week, but first… Yuu, and Maehara-kun.”

“Yeah, what?”

“…What is it?”

“Why do you two have each other’s numbers?”

““Urk.””

Asanagi’s eyes narrowed as she looked at us. Her mouth smiled, but her eyes didn’t.

“W-Well, you see…”

Me and Amami-san fessed up and apologized right away.

Very sincerely, I might add.

“—I see. Well, I figured it was something like that.”

“Sorry, Umi. I knew I shouldn’t peek, but I couldn’t help worrying about you…”

“I’m sorry too, for keeping it from you till now.”

“? Why’s Maehara-kun apologizing? You just got dragged into me and Nina-chi’s mess. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“That’s true, but… even so, I couldn’t stop you two, so I feel kinda responsible.”

I’d already gotten Asanagi’s forgiveness for the peeking thing, but keeping Amami-san’s number a secret had been eating at me.

“Jeez… Yuu, come here a sec. You too, Maehara-kun.”

“? Like this?”

“…Okay.”

As told, me and Amami-san leaned our faces toward Asanagi.

Then, in an instant, a sharp pain shot through my forehead.

“Ow…!”

“Guh…!?”

“—There, punishment done.”

Asanagi had flicked our foreheads… but that was way too strong for a flick.

My forehead’s still tingling… There’s no blood, right?

“I’m not mad or anything, just drawing a line. Feels better this way, right, Yuu?”

“Yeah… Sorry, Maehara-kun. You got caught up in this because I said weird stuff about secrets…”

“I-It’s fine… No, seriously, that hurt.”

It ended with this for now, but I’d better not keep secrets from Asanagi again.

At this rate, I’d run out of foreheads to flick.

“Alright, that’s that. Bring it up again, and I’ll get serious next time.”

“Huh?”

Serious next time?

That last one was bad enough—what’s beyond that…?

“Amami-san…”

When I looked at her, she met my eyes and nodded silently, her face pale.

“No way…”

“—Wanna try one for real?”

“I’ll pass. Seriously.”

Asanagi’s forehead flicks are terrifying.

Anyway, with that settled, we finally got to the main topic.

But first, we decided to snack on the treats before the drinks got cold.

“Oh, these cookies are good! Umi, try this chocolate-covered one.”

“Yeah, tasty. If you alternate with these salty chips, it’s a ‘sweet’ ‘salty’ loop.”

“Right? This is criminal. For my weight too.”

The two of them were feeding each other snacks like usual, all buddy-buddy. Even for best friends, being this close is pretty rare, huh?

“? Oh, sorry! We’re hogging it all—here, Maehara-kun, you too.”

“Oh, uh, sure—”

I took the cookie Amami-san offered and bit into it.

“How is it? Good?”

“Yeah. Well, I picked it out myself, so.”

The butter and bitter chocolate cacao smell nice, and the sweetness is just right.

“Here, Maehara-kun. This one’s good too.”

“Oh, yeah… You’re right.”

I nibbled on another cookie Amami-san recommended. I like cookies, but the crumbs falling everywhere are a slight downside.

“…Hehe~”

As I ate carefully to avoid spilling, I noticed Amami-san watching me with a big grin.

“Uh… Amami-san?”

“Oh, sorry! I just thought you look cute when you’re eating, Maehara-kun.”

“C-Cute…?”

That unexpected comment made my heart skip a beat.

My mouth’s kinda small, so I sometimes eat stuff like this cookie in a little animal-like way, but no one’s ever called it cute before.

Suddenly embarrassed, my cheeks started heating up.

“Oh, you’re blushing! You really are cute, Maehara-kun.”

“N-No, uh…”

Not sure how to react, I instinctively looked to Asanagi for help.

“…Hey, Yuu. Enough with the munching—let’s get to the point. I’m here for that too, y’know.”

“Oh, yeah, right. Sorry, Maehara-kun. I got carried away again.”

“No, uh, it’s fine.”

Thanks to Asanagi bailing me out, we got back on track, though for some reason she’s pouting now.

—Idiot.

I thought I saw Asanagi’s lips move like that, but did I do something wrong?

“Sorry again, but let’s start over… Maehara-kun, I’m really sorry about last time. You were having fun with your friend, and I was so insensitive.”

“No, I’m the one who’s sorry about that.”

I bowed too, explaining to Amami-san why I acted that way last week, recalling my feelings.

How I shrink back and overthink when I’m with a big group, how I got annoyed when my fun time with my friend got interrupted—I laid out what I felt honestly.

Amami-san listened silently the whole time, taking me seriously. It was embarrassing, but I figured I should say it.

“…I think, for me, that time with my friend was really fun and important. It’d been ages since I went somewhere like that, messing around and having fun like a student. Probably the same for that friend too.”

Asanagi’s a regular there, but since that “friend” is her and that’s a secret for now, I fudged that part a bit.

“…I get it. So, Maehara-kun, you really love that friend, huh?”

“!? Uh, no… I mean…”

“? Maehara-kun, what’s wrong?”

“N-No, nothing… I guess you could see it that way… As a friend, they’re definitely important, but ‘love’ is… uh, I dunno.”

Asanagi’s a precious friend for sure, but with her sitting right here, I stumbled over my words.

Too embarrassed to even glance at Asanagi.

What kind of face is she making while listening to this?

“Anyway, I’ve reflected on last week and wanna let it go. So I’d be happy if you did too, Amami-san.”

“Yeah, thanks! Then, as a sign we’re cool, let’s shake hands.”

“Oh, sure.”

I took her offered hand, and we shook.

I was worried my palms were sweaty from nerves, but Amami-san didn’t care—she gripped tight and swung my hand up and down.

“Glad it worked out, Yuu.”

“Yeah, thanks, Umi! I made up with Maehara-kun because of you.”

“You’re welcome.”

For a sec, I wasn’t sure how it’d turn out, but this should settle last week’s mess.

There’ll probably be weird rumors about me and Amami-san for a while, but if I ignore them, they’ll die down eventually.

The class’s popular girl and the class’s loner. We can just go back to our separate worlds, no need to cross paths again.

“Alright then. Yuu, since we’re done talking, let’s head home. Staying too long’ll bother Maehara-kun.”

“Yeah. Oh, but since we made up, I’ve got one more little request for Maehara-kun. Is that okay?”

“Well, sure, I don’t mind… What is it?”

“Um, well, uh…”

As we finished cleaning up to leave, Amami-san turned to face me.

“Maehara-kun, if you don’t like it, you can totally say no.”

“Got it, but… what?”

“Uh… well…”

Fidgeting a bit, Amami-san continued.

“Maehara-kun, if it’s okay with you, would you be my friend?”

““…””

Her sudden offer left me—and Asanagi beside her—speechless.

I thought we’d found a clean resolution, but looks like my connection with Amami-san’s gonna stick around a bit longer.

And then, the next day. Amami-san, now apparently my friend, wasted no time jumping in.

“Oh, Maki-kun! Morning! Nice weather again today, huh?”

“Morning… Yeah, it is.”

“Hmph~ You don’t have to be so formal, Maki-kun.”

Amami-san pouted adorably, but sadly, I wasn’t in a state to enjoy it.

The class’s stares were stinging.

“H-Hey, Yuu-chin… Just checking, but Maki-kun isn’t…”

“Huh? Oh, come on, Nina-chi. Of course it’s Maehara-kun! Maehara Maki-kun. Wait, did you not know his name?”

“Huh? N-No, I knew it… I think.”

It’s fine that Nitta-san didn’t know my name, but she must’ve been shocked about me and Amami-san.

Yesterday it was “Maehara-kun,” and now it’s “Maki-kun.”

Some people are bound to wonder what happened.

“You’ve gotten pretty close to him, huh, Yuu-chin? …Did something happen?”

“Yup! I made up with Maki-kun, and we’re friends now. Right, Maki-kun?”

Whoosh.

Amami-san’s sunny smile sent the whole classroom into a frenzy. Yesterday was bad, but today’s reaction topped it.

—No way, seriously?

—That guy and Amami-san…?

—What if he’s got some weird dirt on her?

—Dirt? Like what?

—No clue, but…

They’re saying whatever they want, but I’ve given up on that.

Bottom line: yesterday, I became friends with Amami-san. Hence the first-name basis.

“I don’t know what everyone else thinks, but I think Maki-kun’s a really good guy. He’s usually quiet, but he’s got his own opinions and can speak up. Plus, he’s smart… To me, he’s kinda like Umi, but a boy.”

Our ways of thinking might be similar, so in that sense maybe I’m like Asanagi, but that’s overstating it.

“Right, Umi? You get it, don’t you? You were with us yesterday.”

“Even as your best friend, I don’t always get everything… maybe.”

“Huh? Really? I think if Umi and Maki-kun became friends, you’d totally hit it off. You should’ve swapped numbers.”

“Well, I’m a girl too… Gotta be careful about that stuff.”

We’re way past swapping—we text all the time—but since Amami-san doesn’t know, we’ve gotta dodge it smoothly.

Still, Amami-san saw me and Asanagi that way? We barely talked in front of her. She might be sharper than I thought.

“! Oh, Maki-kun, are you alone for lunch today?”

“Well, yeah. Always am, and I planned to be.”

“I see. Then how about we eat lunch together today?”

—T-Together!?

Amami-san’s words sent the classroom into an even bigger uproar.

“W-Wait, Yuu—that’s a bit much, don’t you think…”

“Is it? Maki-kun said he’s not great with big groups, so I thought just the two of us would be better. Is that no good?”

“Well, it’s not absolutely no good, but… You think so too, right, Maehara-kun?”

“Y-Yeah. That’d be kinda nerve-wracking.”

I could handle Asanagi, but Amami-san’s basically the class—no, the grade’s—idol at this point.

Eating lunch alone with her? Just thinking about it makes me nervous.

“See, Maehara-kun says so too.”

“Hmm, oh! Then how about with Umi too? It’d be three of us, but you were with Maki-kun yesterday, Umi. Right, Maki-kun? That’s fine, yeah?”

“Uh, um…”

Going from two to three with Asanagi added doesn’t exactly solve the issue.

But if I flat-out refuse here, it might look like I’m getting cocky and tank my rep with the class. It’s unfair, but no helping it.

“…Alright. Then today it’s me, Asanagi-san, and Amami-san, the three of us.”

“Really? Yay!”

Amami-san threw her arms up in innocent excitement at my okay.

Eating with me isn’t exactly thrilling, so is she just nice, or maybe a little odd?

“Thanks, Maki-kun! Hey, Umi, Maki-kun said yes!”

“Yeah, yeah, good for you… Sorry, Maehara-kun. Thanks for putting up with our princess’s whims.”

“No, it’s not a problem for me or anything.”

It happened by chance, but in the end, I leaned on Asanagi again.

“We help each other out when we’re stuck”—that’s me and Asanagi’s deal, but I still wanted to handle this one solo if I could.

After making the plan and heading back to our seats, I quickly sent Asanagi a sneaky message.

(Maehara: Sorry, Asanagi. I couldn’t handle it alone.)

(Asanagi: Can’t be helped this time. Our friendship didn’t get exposed, so just move on.)

(Maehara: Yeah. Thanks, Asanagi. I’m glad you said that.)

(Asanagi: You’re welcome. Friends are for helping out in times like this.)

(Asanagi: So)

(Maehara: So?)

(Asanagi: Oops, typo. Nothing.)

(Maehara: Oh? Okay then.)

I cut the chat there and looked up at Asanagi in the seat ahead.

Staring at her phone, oblivious to my gaze, her profile seemed just a tiny bit redder than usual.

And just like that, lunchtime rolled around.

First to fourth period, including breaks—about four hours or so. Time’s supposed to be fair, but days like this fly by way too fast.

“Phew, morning classes are finally over. Usually it feels quicker… Hey, Umi, don’t you think so too?”

“Nah, if anything, I feel the opposite…”

Our eyes met briefly. Looks like Asanagi was thinking about what’s coming up too.

And naturally, the other classmates too.

I wish they’d just leave already, but even the ones who usually vanish from the classroom right away seem unusually curious about us today.

“Jeez… It’s just eating lunch with a classmate, that’s all… Oh, and Nina, put your phone away right now.”

“…Y-Yes, ma’am.”

The moment Asanagi spoke up, Nitta-san’s phone slipped out from the sleeve of her uniform at the back seat. She’s someone who never lets her guard down—impressive, really.

“Haha… Looks like we won’t be able to eat in peace in the classroom like this. It’s a bit chilly, but how about we eat outside today?”

“Yeah. If we find a sunny spot, it might actually be perfect. Maehara-kun, you okay with that?”

“Sure. I don’t mind either way.”

And so, the three of us left the classroom to scout for a decent spot.

“Umi, where should we go? I usually eat in the classroom or the cafeteria, so I’m kinda clueless about this stuff.”

“Normally, the courtyard’s the obvious pick, but it’s pretty crowded there. We don’t mind, but… Maehara-kun, you good with that?”

Sure, it’s busy, but not so packed that it’s unbearable. The benches might be taken, but there’s still plenty of space to sit if they’re fine with it.

So if the two of them say it’s okay, I’d go along with it too.

—Hey, aren’t those two girls over there first-years?

—Looks like it. Man, they’re both insanely cute. Especially that blonde one.

—And what’s with that dull guy trailing behind? What’s the deal?

I’d love to know that myself, but either way, just walking down the hall means overhearing this kind of chatter nonstop.

Eating my lunch in the middle of that? No way it’d taste good.

“Hey, if you two don’t mind, I was thinking…”

“Hm?”

“What’s up?”

I called out to the two of them as they discussed what to do near the courtyard.

This was my moment to step up.

“—Wow, you’re right. A place like this, and not a single person around?”

“Great sunlight, no tables, but there’s a bench… Pretty nice spot, huh?”

“Glad you think so.”

The place I’d brought them to was a smoking area for staff, tucked beside the faculty building—home to the staff room and principal’s office—on the south side of the school grounds.

Apparently, a few years back, this spot used to be a hangout for teachers enjoying a smoke during lunch, but with recent trends, the entire campus went no-smoking. As a result, the space was left abandoned, unused.

I cleaned off the dusty bench to make it usable. Compared to the courtyard with its neat flowers and trees, it’s cramped and overgrown with weeds, but it’s free of noise—perfect for a student like me to just zone out.

“It’s the only place I could think of… Is it no good?”

“No way, it’s great! Thanks, Maki-kun. Come on, Umi, say thank you too.”

“Yuu, don’t boss me around… But yeah, thanks.”

We lined up on the bench and spread out our lunches.

“Oh, Maki-kun, your tamagoyaki looks delicious. Wanna trade for my sausage?”

“Uh, sure, I don’t mind… It might not suit your taste, though.”

“It’s fine, totally fine. …Wait, Maki-kun, did you make that bento yourself?”

“Sometimes. My parents are busy with work, so I do it when I’ve got time.”

Amami-san seemed surprised, but it’s not that big a deal. With leftovers from last night’s dinner or prepped side dishes from the weekend, waking up a bit early makes it simple enough.

I slack off sometimes, but living with just Mom means I’ve gotta put in some effort.

“Umi, what do we do? We’re girls, and Maki-kun’s got more girly skills than us!”

“Don’t lump me in with you on that… Though yeah, he’s definitely beating us.”

They probably leave chores to their parents, so it’s understandable. I wasn’t good at it either at first—cooking, laundry, I Googled everything like crazy.

“Wow, this tamagoyaki’s amazing. Sweet and salty—it’d go great with rice!”

“Uh… Maehara-kun, can I have some too?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

The moment Asanagi popped the other piece in her mouth, her eyes blinked in surprise.

“…So? How is it?”

“…Unfair.”

It’s pretty basic—just a splash of store-bought white dashi and a pinch of sugar when frying—but I’m glad they both liked it.

Why Asanagi’s verdict was “unfair,” I’m not sure, but I’ll take it as a compliment for now.

Trading side dishes sparked a full-on cooking chat.

I’d been stressing over what to talk about while eating with Amami-san, so landing on a safe topic like cooking was a relief.

“Whoa, Maki-kun, you can make sweets too? I already got ‘not-your-average-guy’ vibes from the tamagoyaki, but… ugh, you’re this overwhelming?”

“No, it’s not like I can do anything amazing…”

Cost-wise, buying’s better, but I don’t like leaving the house on weekends, and going to a sweets shop alone as a guy feels awkward. When I’m craving something sweet, making it’s a solid option. Plus, I’ve got time to burn.

“So, what’s the tastiest dessert you’ve made lately?”

“Uh… maybe the soufflé pancakes with just eggs and bananas…”

“T-The soufflé pancakes with just eggs and bananas…!?”

Amami-san parroted it back, trembling with shock.

“H-Hey, Umi, I blacked out for a sec—what did Maki-kun just say?”

“Yuu, pull yourself together. The damage isn’t that deep yet.”

They stared at me in disbelief. Personally, I don’t think it’s that impressive.

“It’s not that hard. I just follow online videos or recipe sites—simple steps, that’s all.”

“Boo, Maki-kun, don’t say it like it’s nothing! Some people—like me—mess up even when they follow recipes perfectly, y’know? Right, Umi?”

“Yuu’s got a special ‘turn-sugar-into-dark-matter’ alchemy talent, after all.”

“Hey, that’s mean, Umi! Like you’re any better—don’t think I’ve forgotten that charcoal-choco you made for Valentine’s last year!”

“At least tack ‘cookie’ onto the end of ‘charcoal,’ you dimwit.”

Seems neither of them shines in the cooking department. So Asanagi’s just an eater, huh?

“Oh, about Valentine’s—it was just friend-choco we made for ourselves, not for anyone else, okay?”

“Right, you two went to an all-girls school, didn’t you?”

Their old school was the top elite girls’ academy in the region—wealthy families, top students, and an integrated system from elementary to high school. Most students would naturally move up to the high school part, so…

…No, let’s not overthink it. I’m in a similar boat, anyway.

“Man, I’m jealous~ I love sweets so much, and hearing this makes me wanna try Maki-kun’s stuff~… Hauu, pancakes…”

“If you want them that bad, I could make some…”

“Huh? Really? You’ll make them? Yay~!”

Amami-san’s face lit up like a blooming flower, throwing her arms up in joy.

It’s cheap—500 yen covers toppings and all, plenty tasty and filling—but it’s nowhere near store-bought quality. Still, seeing her this happy makes me feel kinda itchy.

“Then we’ve gotta visit Maki-kun’s place again. Today’s out—I’ve got other plans—but another day… Oh, how about this Friday? I’m free then!”

Amami-san jumped to lock in a date, but that’s a bit of a problem for me.

“Friday…”

I don’t have firm plans yet, but Fridays are basically reserved for hanging out with Asanagi.

Well, that’s just my personal rule—if our schedules (mostly Asanagi’s) don’t align, skipping it isn’t a big deal.

…Or so it should be.

“…Uh, sorry. That day—well, Fridays in general—are kinda tough for me.”

“Huh? Really?”

“Yeah. Other days are fine, but I’d like to keep that one open…”

Saying it like this makes it sound like both me and Asanagi are busy, which could tip Amami-san off if I’m not careful.

To keep our secret safe, I should slot Amami-san in this week and skip Asanagi instead. That’s the smarter move.

Asanagi’d probably turn down an invite in the same situation, right?

“Oh, it’s not like I’ve got specific plans or anything. It’s just, with my noisy mom out at work, I usually like to laze around alone…”

But when it comes to that specific day, I’d rather prioritize Asanagi.

When she’s worn out from her usual social stuff, I want to be there, ready to hang out.

As a “friend” different from Amami-san, that’s how I want it to be—or at least, how I feel.

“So, I’d appreciate it if we could do another day… Is that okay?”

“Oh, totally fine with me! I mean, I’m the one begging here, so I should fit your schedule. Right, Umi? How about we plan something with Maki-kun for next week? Let’s all go together!”

“Huh? Uh, I mean…”

Her reluctance is probably an act. Honestly, I’d be in trouble if Asanagi didn’t come.

“…Fine, whatever. Guess a chaperone’s needed. I’m in.”

“Hehe, thanks, Umi! Then it’s settled!”

We nailed down a meetup for mid-next week. This kind of momentum must be how Amami-san connects with so many people.

“Oh, it’s already this late… Umi, what’s fifth period again?”

“Uh, oh, PE. We’ve got changing, so we’d better head out soon.”

“No way! Maki-kun, sorry, we’ve gotta go!”

“Oh, uh, sure. See you both off then.”

“Yep, see ya~!”

“Later.”

After waving them off, I sat back down on the bench alone.

Right then, my phone buzzed in my pocket. A message from Asanagi.

(Asanagi: Idiot. You could’ve hung out with Yuu anyway.)

(Maehara: Sorry for being an idiot. But who I hang out with is my choice, right?)

(Asanagi: True. But you really wanna hang out with me that* bad?)*

(Maehara: Nah, not really.)

(Asanagi: Liar. Just admit it. You can’t live without me, right? You need me, don’t you?)

(Maehara: Huh? Don’t need you. Idiot.)

(Asanagi: The one calling someone an idiot is the real idiot. Dumbass.)

(Maehara: Shut up, idiot. Go change already.)

This was heading toward a pointless argument, so I shoved my phone back in my pocket.

That Asanagi, calling me an idiot left and right. She’d better watch out next time we hang out.

Lately, Asanagi’s been coming over every week, but I wonder if she’s managing okay with her other friends. It hit me out of nowhere.

Fridays—since Saturday’s off, it’s gotta be a popular day for plans compared to, say, Tuesday or Wednesday. Plenty of classmates probably make arrangements then too.

It’s weird for a guy like me to act all know-it-all, but hanging out and building connections with lots of people has more perks than not, I think.

High school class reshuffles, college, the working world—we’ll keep getting forced into new groups. Having lots of ties makes those transitions smoother. It’s obvious from elementary to middle school, or middle to high school—newbies stick with their old crowd at first, then gradually mix with others, and bonds shift over time.

Anyway, it might be meddling, but I’m kinda worried about Asanagi.

I keep weekends open in case she drops by, so even if she came every week, it’d be fine by me.

She seems to enjoy herself, and coming weekly means she probably finds it comfy here. As the host… well, I’m happy about that, I guess.

“…What? What’s up? You’re staring at me.”

Asanagi noticed my gaze and tilted her head. She’s got fries in her right hand, a controller in her left—total slob mode—but since she’s naturally pretty, it somehow still looks good. Annoying.

“Oh, I get it. You’re smitten ’cause I’m so cute, right? In that case, how about going easy on me—”

“Nope, not happening.”

“Gah! You jerk, you pulled that trick again! Stop hiding in the shadows—come out and fight me fair and square!”

“You should learn how to fight better… Wait, no, that’s not it. I was actually a little worried.”

“Worried about what? Unlike you, I’m not packing on pounds.”

“…My weight gain’s beside the point.”

Thinking alone wasn’t getting me anywhere, so I decided to tell Asanagi my concerns.

Basically, I wanted to say, “Shouldn’t you hang out with other people more?” Her face soured the moment she heard it.

“What? You hate hanging out with me that much? Tired of me, so I’m disposable now?”

“Disposable? No way. Having you around, I…”

“…You, what?”

“Uh…”

I almost let my real feelings slip and clammed up, but Asanagi—sharp as ever—grinned smugly.

“Ohh~? Hmm~?”

“What?”

“Nothing~ Just wondering what Maehara was about to say. ‘Having you around, I…’—go on, Maehara-kun, finish that thought.”

“…I…”

“Yes? I…?”

“…Gotcha.”

While Asanagi was distracted by me, I turned her cute game avatar into Swiss cheese with a submachine gun.

“Hey! You hit me while I wasn’t looking, you coward!”

“No such thing as cowardice on the battlefield.”

I forcibly dodged the topic, and we dove back into the game.

Asanagi’s skills have leveled up a ton since before. Turns out she’s been sneaking her brother’s console for practice.

That explains why lately our chats and texts are full of gaming jargon. Barely a year in, and she’s already a legit gamer geek.

“Anyway, thanks for worrying about me, I guess.”

“…Sorry for fretting over dumb stuff.”

“Nah. I get where you’re coming from. I have been crashing here a lot lately. If I’m too obvious, Yuu’ll catch on, so I’ll tone it down a bit. So, what should we eat next week? I’ve been eyeing that mixed modanyaki~”

“Huh? Did you even hear me?”

I feel like she sidestepped it, but knowing Asanagi, she’s probably got it figured out.

“Oh! Right. That romcom manga you lent me—it’s actually pretty good. The protag and heroines are all adorable.”

“Right? I found the final volume on early sale yesterday. Wanna read it?”

“Seriously? Lead with that! Where is it? Your room? Let me see!”

“Fine, but I haven’t read it yet…”

“Then we’ll read it together! Come on, quit munching on those soggy fries and let’s go to your room!”

“You’re the one who ordered them…”

So we paused the game and headed to my room to read manga.

With my mom in editing, my shelves are packed with manga, light novels, and more. When we’re tired of gaming or not quite in the mood, we sometimes flop around in here reading together.

“Maehara, can I sit next to you?”

“Sure, go ahead.”

“Cool.”

We sat side by side on the bed and started on the manga we’d been after.

“…Maehara, next page.”

“Got it.”

I flipped pages slowly, matching Asanagi’s pace.

“…I wasn’t sure how it’d end, but a proper happy ending’s nice, huh?”

“Yeah. Guess the classics are the best.”

Both me and Asanagi are the type to dive deep into fave works or trending stuff—analyzing lines, foreshadowing, the nitty-gritty.

She says she talks manga and movies with Amami-san and other classmates too, but it’s usually broad stuff like “the visuals were cool” or “the music was great”—never hitting the details Asanagi really wants to unpack.

That’s part of why she sees me as more of a “comrade,” apparently.

“Phew~ So good. I kinda wanna reread from the start… Maehara, where’s volume one?”

“Middle of the shelf. Guess I’ll read something else then.”

After that, we each sprawled on the bed or carpet, leaning against the wall, quietly reading our own picks.

During that time, we’re silent—no chit-chat. But it’s never awkward.

That’s just how me and Asanagi roll.

“Whew, got lost in that for a while…”

Taking a break at a good spot, I realized over two hours had passed.

Reading or gaming always eats up time like this—trouble is, it happens too often.

“Guess I’ll make some coffee to wake up… Asanagi, I’m brewing some—want any—”

I turned to Asanagi, sprawled on my bed engrossed in her manga, and noticed.

“Kaa~…”

“Oh, she’s out cold…”

Peeking at her face, she’d clearly dozed off mid-read, mouth slack with a bonus snore.

Sleeping’s fine, but she’s way too relaxed. This is still a teenage guy’s room, y’know.

“…Ngaa…”

“Jeez, snoring like that—so unladylike…”

Still, being around her makes even that kinda endearing. Weird how that works.

“Yawn… Guess I’ll lie down too.”

Watching Asanagi’s sleeping face must’ve made me drowsy—my eyelids got heavy.

Checking my phone, it’s just before 9 PM. Usually, she heads home in about an hour, so letting her sleep a bit longer’s fine.

With Asanagi snug under my blanket looking comfy, I set an alarm and grabbed a cushion to nap on the floor nearby.

I wanted to stretch out this cozy, lazy night just a little more.

That turned out to be my downfall this time.

—Wake up, Maki. Get up already.

“Nnh…?”

I was drifting in a pleasant haze when a voice echoed in my foggy head.

The alarm hasn’t gone off yet, so not much time should’ve passed. Maybe Asanagi woke up first? If so, I should at least see her to the door—

“—Maki, Maki. Hey, I said wake up already.”

“Nnh… Sorry, Asanagi… I got sleepy too…”

“—Ohh, so that girl’s Asanagi-san, huh?”

“…Huh?”

That instant, a chill shot through me. Oh no. This can’t be…

Rolling over, I saw Asanagi still lying there, peacefully snoring away.

Yet someone had called me—which meant—

Slowly turning my gaze forward…

“Got off work early for once and came home… and you’ve got a girl in your room? Care to explain?”

“Mom… Y-Yes…”

Standing there, arms crossed and looming over me, was my mom—who wasn’t supposed to be back from work.

It’s my fault for letting my guard down, but getting caught by Mom before Amami-san was not part of the plan.

“Sorry, Asanagi. I meant to wake you when it was time…”

“Nah~… We totally crashed, huh? If your mom hadn’t woken us, we might’ve slept ’til morning.”

She must’ve been super comfy—when Mom woke us, it was already past 〇 at night.

Asanagi’s house doesn’t have a strict curfew, and she usually lets them know if she’ll be late, but this hour was pushing it way too far.

…I messed up big time.

“—Yes, yes. They were reading manga together and fell asleep as is… Yes, yes. Really, my kid… Oh, no, no, it’s not your daughter’s fault—it’s entirely my idiot son’s—”

While me and Asanagi sat seiza-style in the living room, Mom was on the phone with Asanagi’s parents, clearly groveling.

So yeah, both Mom and Asanagi’s folks now know the “friend” I hang out with on weekends is a girl from my class.

I’d planned to introduce her to Mom someday, but not like this—close to the worst way possible.

“Sorry for the wait, Umi-chan. I got permission from your mom, so since it’s late, stay over tonight, okay?”

“Huh? B-But that’s too much trouble… And, uh, Maeh—er, Maki-kun’s here too…”

For now, it’s settled that she’ll sleep over, but even as friends, I’m a guy and she’s a girl. That’s obviously something to consider.

“It’s fine. It’s a twenty- or thirty-minute walk, and I can’t let a girl walk alone at night. My son’s too unreliable to escort you… Of course, I’ll make sure Maki doesn’t lay a finger on you, so you can rest easy on that.”

“I wouldn’t do that… And when we were napping, we were on the bed and floor, totally separate.”

“Oh? You say that, but didn’t you sneakily peek at Umi-chan’s sleeping face and poke her cheeks or something?”

“…No way! Asanagi and I aren’t like that… Come on, trust your own kid a little!”

“I did, and look where that got us?”

“…Sorry about that.”

I bowed my head to Mom honestly.

As for Asanagi, I did think her sleeping face was cute for a split second, but I didn’t touch her or feel anything shady. …At least, I shouldn’t have.

“Still, I never imagined you’d get close to such a cute girl. Every day it’s just games, games, games—no hint of this at all. Maki, how long have you been bringing Umi-chan over?”

“Your wording… Uh, we’ve been hanging out here for about a month and a half, I guess.”

It’s not exactly “bringing her over,” but for now, I’ll take all the blame.

“I see. Sometimes I’d come home exhausted from an all-nighter and think the room smelled weirdly like air freshener… Never guessed it was for this.”

I’d made up excuses about takeout odors, but really, it was to cover Asanagi’s traces.

Perfume or makeup or something—she leaves a faint sweet scent in the living room after she’s gone, nothing like our usual. Mom’s sensitive to smells, so I’d been masking it.

In the end, one slip-up from me, and it all went down the drain.

“Anyway, I’ve got proper permission, so Umi-chan, stay here tonight. Head home tomorrow morning and apologize to your mom properly then. Got it?”

“Asanagi, trust Mom on this, okay? I’ll follow her rules while you’re here too.”

And if they’ll let me, I’ll go to Asanagi’s place myself to apologize in person.

“Uh… You really won’t do anything, right?”

“Of course not! What do you take me for?”

“Yeah, true. If you had that kinda guts, I’d question if we’d even be friends… Okay.”

She hesitated a bit but finally nodded, seemingly convinced.

“Got it. Then I’ll be in your care tonight.”

“Great, glad to have you, Umi-chan. Your uniform’ll wrinkle, so change into my pajamas. Oh, but first, a bath. After, us girls can chat a bit… Maki, you—back to your room.”

“I know, I know.”

She’s mad, but she’s awfully soft on Asanagi. And despite just getting off work, Mom’s weirdly hyped up.

Well, I’ve never brought friends home or been invited anywhere, so she’s probably thrilled in her own mom-way.

Obviously, Asanagi being gorgeous helps too.

“I’ll head to my room like you said, but where’s Asanagi sleeping? We’ve got the sofa, but we can’t treat a guest like that…”

We don’t have spare bedding or a guest room—living room’s about it for sleeping spots.

“Huh? I’m fine with the sofa…”

“No way, Umi-chan. The sofa’s hard on your body and bad for sleep.”

“But then…”

Asanagi glanced at me.

We’ve got two beds—mine and Mom’s. Mom’ll take hers, so that leaves—

“Got it. I’ll sleep on the sofa tonight, Asanagi. Use my bed. After your bath, we’ll swap spots.”

“Huh? But then you…”

“I can sleep like a rock on the floor, so the sofa’s a breeze. It’s my house, but you’d wanna sleep well too, right?”

“Well, yeah, but… You sure?”

“Yeah. The bedding’s freshly aired out, so it’s not too grimy.”

Honestly, after seeing her sleep so cozily under my blanket, I couldn’t not offer.

“Maki’s saying it’s fine, so don’t hold back, okay, Umi-chan?”

“…Alright. Then I’ll take you up on it.”

So just for tonight, me and Asanagi’s weekend stretched a bit longer.

With Asanagi off to bathe, Mom shooed me to my room, where I sat on my bed, hugging my knees, zoning out.

“Asanagi, sleeping over at my place…”

It’s not weird for friends to crash at someone’s house, chatting or gaming all night—but that’s same-sex stuff. Guy and girl? Even couples might avoid it. Especially as first-year high schoolers.

Right now, I’ve got my door shut and headphones blasting music—total soundproof mode—so I’ve got no clue what’s happening outside.

I wanted a bath too, but Mom banned me. She was going on about “using Umi-chan’s leftover bathwater—” like I’d ever do that.

“Asanagi’s…”

A hazy image of her beyond the steam flickered in my mind—

“…No, no, what am I, an idiot?”

I shook off the dumb thought and cranked the headphone volume higher.

It’s some love drama song trending on TV lately. I like this rock band, but their recent stuff’s all about love and friendship—not as loop-worthy as their old tracks.

…A loner like me doesn’t get all this talk of love and bonds.

“Asanagi’s just a friend… right?”

Even vibing to music or reading my favorite comic, my mind kept drifting to my first-ever friend.

Gaming together, scarfing down junk food that’s gotta be awful for us, trading stupid jokes—the girl who befriended a socially awkward mess like me.

I definitely see Asanagi as a “friend” and wanna keep things good with her. I hope she feels the same.

But usually I don’t think twice about it—times like this force me to notice.

Asanagi Umi is a girl.

Top grades, impeccable manners, as striking as Amami-san—the “second-cutest girl in class.”

And that girl’s in my house right now, bathing, about to change into pajamas and sleep in my room, in my bed—

“…Huh?”

Thinking that, my heart started racing.

When I peeked at her sleeping earlier, I didn’t flinch at all—why now?

(It’s Asanagi, y’know? Sure, she’s pretty, but she’s all prim on the outside—inside, she’s the type to snore like an old man with her mouth open and drool everywhere, right?)

Yet here I am, recalling every “girly” moment of hers, getting all flustered by myself—

“—Hey.”

“Wahh!?”

A whisper in my ear jolted me so hard I nearly leapt off the bed.

Turning, there was Asanagi, barely holding back laughter at my pathetic reaction.

“Pfft, haha! Geez, I just spooked you a little—why’d you freak out so bad? You just bounced like one of those dollar-store toy frogs!”

“A-Asanagi… Knock first, jeez!”

“I did—multiple times. You’re blasting music through those headphones, so of course you didn’t hear.”

Normally, I’d catch it even with headphones, but my head was spinning with too many thoughts to notice.

“Oh, right. About pajamas—your mom’s didn’t fit, so I borrowed your sweats. Sorry.”

“Oh, uh, that’s fine… I’ve got a bunch of similar ones in different colors.”

“Good, good. These are all fuzzy and warm—might grab some for myself next time.”

She’d changed into my navy sweatshirt and pants. They’re oversized and comfy—my go-to for lazy days at home.

She said they didn’t fit, but Mom and I are about the same height… Well, I won’t pry into that.

The baggy sweats hide it now, but… Asanagi’s got a decent chest.

…There I go, thinking weird stuff again.

“A-Anyway, I’ll sleep in the living room, so use the bed however you want—”

“Wait a sec.”

“Guh!”

I tried to slip out considerately, but Asanagi grabbed my collar from behind, stopping me.

“W-What?”

“Nah, I was napping earlier, and the bath woke me up completely… Let’s chat a bit.”

“…Mom told me to stay out of the same space as you as much as possible.”

“A little’s fine. Besides, if you try anything, I’ll scream loud enough.”

“I’m not gonna try anything!”

Mom’s the type to follow through, so if Asanagi yelled—even jokingly—I’d be toast.

“C’mon, Maehara, over here. Sit next to me, it’s fine.”

“This is my bed to begin with…”

“It’s mine for now… Come on, get over here.”

She patted the spot beside her like calling a dog.

“She doesn’t even realize I’m trying to be considerate… Ugh.”

Well, I’d rather not risk her yelling, so I sat.

I’m worried Mom might notice, but she’s bathing now after Asanagi, so ten or fifteen minutes should be safe.

Sitting close enough for our shoulders to brush, I settled next to Asanagi.

“Phew… Never thought I’d end up sleeping over at your place. What a bad guy you are, sneaking a cute girl like me in here.”

“You’re the one who fell dead asleep. I messed up napping too, but still.”

“Fair point. Guess I was way too defenseless for a girl. I’ll own that.”

She chuckled wryly, and a faint citrus scent wafted from her. We use the same shampoo—why doesn’t it smell like this on me?

“Hey, Maehara.”

“Yeah?”

“We’re kinda bad kids, huh?”

“…Yeah.”

Delinquents, really. If this got out to the class somehow, Asanagi’s image would take a hit for sure.

Of course, Amami-san would be majorly disappointed in her too.

“Hey, Asanagi, I’ve been thinking for a while…”

“…About telling Yuu about us?”

“Yeah. Were you thinking it too?”

“A little, in the bath. It’s about time we hit our limit, right?”

This mess drove it home—even if we’re careful, Amami-san’ll figure it out eventually. She’s not that oblivious.

Better to apologize before she finds out and we have to grovel. I’m the one who suggested keeping it secret, so even if it sours things, we could patch it up quick.

“I’ll find a chance to tell Yuu soon, so just act normal, Maehara.”

“Got it. I’ll leave it to you then.”

Since we’re hanging out with Amami-san next Wednesday, I’ll prep to apologize then if it comes up.

If she hates me for it and spreads it around class, that’s my own doing. Gotta live with it.

“Alright, that’s settled… So, what else should we talk about? It’s a rare chance—maybe the classic love t—oh!”

“…Ohh?”

She totally threw that out on purpose. My drawer’s got no love stories to pull from.

All I’ve got in there are my still-fresh memories with Asanagi.

“Jeez… Mom’s probably done soon, so I’m gonna sleep.”

“Ugh, such a buzzkill. Fine, I’ll let it slide for today.”

“Yeah, yeah, thanks.”

Asanagi’s still Asanagi—zero reservations with me, but a friend I can relax with.

That weird tension from earlier? Probably just my imagination.

“Oh, wait. Hey, Maehara. One last thing?”

“…What?”

“Good night, Maehara… Hehe, saying it formally feels kinda ticklish, huh?”

“—G-Good night!”

I bolted from Asanagi, dove onto the living room sofa—my bed for tonight—wrapped myself in a blanket like a caterpillar, and shut my eyes.

(Just for a sec, just a tiny bit, I thought she was super cute…)

Her shy little smile from moments ago flashed in my head.

“…She can make a face like that too, huh?”

Thanks to Asanagi, sleep wasn’t coming anytime soon tonight.

I ended up too wired to sleep that night, but the next thing on the schedule didn’t wait for me.

Early Saturday morning, I was heading to Asanagi’s place with her.

“Sorry, Maehara. My mom wouldn’t budge—she insisted on meeting you.”

“No, it’s fine. Sooner’s better, and I figured I’d have to visit eventually.”

According to Asanagi, when she called this morning to say she was heading back,

“Bring that boy along too—I wanna talk to him,” her mom had said. So my visit’s by official request from the Asanagi household.

…Honestly, it’s a little scary.

“—Here we are. This is my place.”

“…Wow.”

Down an unfamiliar street, just past a railway crossing, stood Asanagi’s home.

Like she’d said—a typical family house. A two-story wooden build in a residential area, with a big yard where a veggie patch grew juicy red cherry tomatoes. Probably her mom’s work.

After ringing the intercom and waiting, slipper-clad footsteps approached, and Asanagi’s mom peeked out.

“…I-I’m home.”

“Welcome back, Umi… And welcome, Maehara-kun.”

“H-Hi, I’m Maehara Maki. Nice to meet you.”

“Oh, so polite. I’m Asanagi Sora—reluctant mother to that delinquent over there.”

She smiled gently with a little “ufu,” but like Asanagi once showed me, her eyes weren’t smiling at all. She’s stunning—hard to believe she has a high school daughter—and has a calm vibe.

…Yeah, I absolutely can’t cross this woman. My instincts are screaming it.

“I never dreamed my daughter’s first time staying out all night would be with a boy from class instead of Yuu-chan… When your mom called, Maehara-kun, I was floored.”

“Uh… I’m really sorry. I meant to wake her, but I was tired too and just conked out…”

“Oh, it’s not your fault, Maehara-kun. The blame’s all on my daughter, who fell asleep so carelessly in a boy’s room. Right, Umi?”

“I already said sorry about that yesterday… Don’t lecture me out here—someone might hear, it’s embarrassing!”

“Saying sorry yesterday doesn’t fix it. This time, Maki-kun and Masaki-san were wonderful people, so it turned out fine—but what if they weren’t?”

“W-Well, that’s…”

Exactly. That’s why Sora-san’s still scolding her now.

It’s so dead-on that neither me nor Asanagi could argue back.

She never had a curfew because Asanagi’s always been diligent about her social life. That’s why Sora-san trusted her.

This time, though, it risked shattering that trust completely.

Mom coming home saved us from disaster yesterday, but if we’d slept through to morning? It’d have been a mess for sure.

We can’t just brush it off with “nothing happened, so it’s fine.”

“Listen, Umi, I’m not saying don’t have fun. Just handle your responsibilities and don’t make us worry. Got it?”

“…Yeah. Sorry, Mom. I’ll be super careful from now on.”

“…Me too.”

Me and Asanagi bowed to Sora-san in sync.

This time, we’ve gotta seriously reflect. We’re still high school kids—gotta keep some boundaries.

“Good. I’ve got plenty more to say, but we’ll do that inside… Come on in, Maehara-kun.”

“Y-Yes. Excuse me.”

I swapped into guest slippers and stepped into the Asanagi living room.

Sora-san must’ve been prepping breakfast—toast, yogurt, and colorful fruits lined the table.

“Umi, what about breakfast? I’ve got some for Maehara-kun too.”

“We ate at Maehara’s… Guess I’ll just take some fruit. You, Maehara?”

“Same for me then.”

Guided by Sora-san, I sat at the table, facing her, with Asanagi beside me.

“…Huh? Where’s Aniki?”

“Riku was up late doing something—he’s probably still asleep. I told him we’d have a guest, so he’ll likely stay upstairs.”

“Oh… Well, can’t be helped.”

The Asanagi family’s four—parents, Asanagi, and her older brother Riku. Dad’s at work today, apparently.

I’d hoped to greet her brother too, but that can wait for another time.

“Oh, Mom. About Yuu’s place, today’s stuff…”

“I haven’t told the Amami family—it’s none of their business. Though if Masaki-san’s call had been thirty minutes later, I might’ve.”

Guess we dodged a bullet there too. Gotta thank Mom again.

“So, Maehara-kun. How’d you get close with our Umi? I’ve asked her, but she just says, ‘It’s none of your business, Mom,’ and clams up.”

“M-Mom…! M-Maehara, you don’t have to say anything, okay?”

“See? Like that. My daughter’s first boyfriend she’s brought home—I’m dying to hear the ‘how we met’ story as her mom!”

“Huh? First… ever?”

Amami-san must come over a lot, but seems I’m the first guy friend she’s brought here.

Since Asanagi was at an all-girls school through middle, that tracks, but hearing “first” outright feels weird.

“S-So what? That’s irrelevant too! Maehara, you don’t have to entertain this chatty old lady. Here, eat a peach—it’s sweet and yummy.”

“Oh, peeling it for him yourself despite being so clumsy? How sweet. I was worried since you rarely bring friends home lately, but you’re full of surprises, Umi. You little sneak~”

“W-Who made it that way?! Ugh, Mom, you idiot!”

“Maehara-kun, take care of Umi from now on, okay? She’s a handful, but deep down, she’s honest and sweet. Oh, how about staying over here next time? I could keep an eye out, so it’d be safe… Yep, great idea!”

“Ah—ah—shut up already! Maehara, I give you permission—sew her mouth shut!”

“Uh, that’s a bit much…”

It’s lively for a morning. I usually eat alone, so this vibe’s kinda nice.

After that, I got stuck between Sora-san’s prying and Asanagi’s secrecy, struggling but oddly enjoying the atmosphere.

The sleepover incident, including the visit to Asanagi’s, wrapped up peacefully with no major fallout—but starting the next week, things shifted subtly for me and Asanagi.

“Morning, Umi!”

“Second time today, as usual, but morning, Yuu. What’s up? You look extra happy today.”

“Huh? What’s up, she says—you know full well~ It’s that, y’know, that.”

Amami-san shot me a sneaky wink. It’s Wednesday—the day we’d planned for her to visit my place.

It was right after the incident, so honestly, I’d have preferred pushing it back a week, but no way I could say that to her. So, as scheduled.

And of course, I had to tell Mom. After the Asanagi fiasco, I promised to report any time I’d have a girl over.

Naturally, that applies to future hangouts with Asanagi too.

I can still picture Mom’s reaction when I told her vividly.

She literally fell off her chair.

“N-Not just Umi-chan, but her best friend too… Oh, my son, my shy little boy, turned into some harem protagonist overnight…!”

What a way to talk about your own kid. I explained they’re just classmates and friends, but she kept nagging me to introduce Amami-san too.

“Huh? What’s that? Yuu-chin, you and Asanagi going somewhere again? Let me tag along!”

“Sorry, Nina-chi, not this time. Today’s just me and Umi hanging out. Right?”

“Yep, that’s the deal. Nitta, you know what happens if you tail us, right?”

“Y-Yes…”

After getting chewed out by Asanagi last time, Nitta-san’s playing nice.

(Maehara: Think Nitta-san’s okay?)

(Asanagi: No clue, but I’ll hammer it in at lunch just in case.)

(Maehara: Got it. See you after school then.)

(Asanagi: Yep, got it. Oh, and I’m looking forward to your homemade sweets too.)

(Maehara: It’s not a big deal or anything…)

(Asanagi: What? Picking a fight with me and Yuu, the housework flops?)

(Maehara: Oh, right, my bad.)

(Asanagi: Jerk.)

We traded sneaky texts as usual, and I glanced at Asanagi. Normally, she’d subtly wave or something to keep it under wraps, but—

“……”

Since this week started, she’s been looking away when our eyes meet. Even in passing during class switches, same deal—no nod, nothing.

Texts are normal, so I don’t think she hates me, but still.

After school, I got home first and was prepping ingredients when Asanagi showed up with Amami-san.

“Hehe, looking forward to today, Maki-kun!”

“Y-Yeah, same… And, uh, Asanagi-san too.”

“Oh, yep. I’m just this one’s babysitter today, so don’t mind me.”

Our public banter’s still tricky—how do I play this right?

Especially with Amami-san as the guest today, it’s extra awkward.

Acting distant when we’re close feels gross.

“Jeez, Umi, Maki-kun—too stiff! Especially you, Umi, you’re friends now, so talk like usual!”

“Huh? N-No, I’m only friends with you, Yuu—I’m more like a friend-of-a-friend—”

“That’s exactly why you should get closer! Here, both of you—shake hands. Sign of friendship!”

““…””

We’ve held hands before, and she’s even patted my head—but why’s this so tense now?

Me and Asanagi stared at each other’s hands.

“Come on, both of you—say ‘nice to meet you’!”

“…Uh, our princess says so, so for now…”

“Y-Yeah, sure.”

With that, I lightly gripped Asanagi’s right hand.

As always, it’s smooth—like silk. Apparently, Sora-san’s obsessed with skincare, and Asanagi picked it up, ending up like this naturally.

Meanwhile, my hands are rough from chores—young but weathered—so the contrast is startling.

“…Anyway, I’ll cook, so you two sit and watch TV or something.”

“I’d love to help, but me and Umi are useless here… Muu, no choice.”

“Same here. Guess we’ll behave like Maehara-kun says.”

Leaving Amami-san to Asanagi, I got to cooking.

It’s nothing fancy—just the “egg-and-banana soufflé pancakes” we talked about at lunch the other day.

Not hard—separate the eggs, whip the whites into a fluffy meringue, mix in mashed banana and yolk, then cook it on a pan.

Sure, there’s a knack to not overmixing the meringue and banana, but practice makes it second nature.

“Alright, just waiting for it to cook… Huh? What’re you two up to?”

While prepping coffee to go with the pancakes, I noticed them messing around.

“Oh, sorry. Borrowed a game… Hey, Umi, that’s cheating starting out of nowhere!”

“Ohh~ No cheating in a deathmatch~ On the battlefield, the distracted get slaughtered~ Gotta understand that~”

They’d dug into my games—same versus one me and Asanagi always play.

Asanagi’s ruthless, knowing full well Amami-san’s a newbie.

I trash her in-game too, so I can’t talk, but still—pretty immature.

“W-Wait, Umi, you’re good! How’re you landing shots like that?”

“Been borrowing my brother’s lately… Yes! My win. Come on, sweets are ready—let’s eat before they cool.”

“Umi~…?”

“Haha… W-Well, we can play more after eating if you want. I could teach you?”

“Really? Then please, Master!”

“M-Master… Uh, l-looking forward to it…”

I figured she wouldn’t care for this stuff, but seeing her face while playing, Amami-san might actually get hooked.

If we keep gaming after sweets… I’ll be strict about time after last time, but I should probably tell Mom we might run a bit late.

We paused the game to eat the fresh pancakes.

Usually, I’m sloppier, but for Amami-san and Asanagi, these are my best yet. Fluffy perfection—extra effort whipping the whites paid off.

I split it three ways and let them dig in first.

“Fwah… So fluffy… A little less sweet, but that makes the banana stand out. Umi, this is crazy, right?”

“…Yeah, it’s good.”

“It’s about a third the calories of normal ones, so you can pile on butter or syrup guilt-free… Want more?”

“Yes~!”

“…Me too.”

Seems they liked it.

Amami-san beamed happily. Asanagi grumbled a “mmph” while eating.

Seeing different reactions from people eating my food? Not bad as the cook.

“Maki-kun, uh… Mine’s already gone… Ehe~”

Amami-san timidly pointed out her empty plate—clean as a whistle.

“I made extra today, so I can whip up more. Seconds?”

“Can I? Then please!”

“Asanagi-san?”

“…I’ll take some.”

Asanagi’s plate was spotless too, of course.

“Got it. For both of you.”

“Oh, Maki-kun. Can I watch up close this time? I wanna try making it at home.”

“Yuu, why not just beg your mom to make it? We’d turn it into a black disc.”

“Muu~ I can do it if I’m taught right! Right, Maki-kun?”

“Well, if you time it and don’t miss the flip cues…”

“…Then I’ll watch too.”

So I ended up cooking sandwiched between Amami-san and Asanagi.

“Pour the batter onto a parchment-lined pan to prevent sticking, cover it, and heat for about five minutes… Then check how it’s puffing up. Once it’s not raw and fluffy, that’s the signal—fold it in half.”

“Ooh~ Looks easy!”

“Recipes online have tons of versions, so check those if you’re stuck. Generally, sweets work if you stick to amounts and times—might char a bit, but not, uh…”

“…What? Wanna say ‘dark matter’ or ‘charcoal’? Go ahead.”

“No, that’s not… Ow!”

Out of Amami-san’s sight, Asanagi pinched my side hard. She’s holding back so it won’t tip her off, but I wasn’t mocking them—forgive me already.

We polished off the seconds too, then jumped back to gaming.

“Hehe, watch this, Umi. With Maki-kun’s teachings, I’ll make you eat dust this time!”

“Pfft, what can that cutesy avatar and gear do? I’ll blast that pretty face off with my heavy arsenal.”

It’s a mode with free character and gear picks—Amami-san’s all about looks, while Asanagi’s attack-first, defense-second.

Experience and stats give an edge, so Amami-san’s gotta skill up to close the gap.

“Right… Basics first—don’t panic when you spot an enemy, don’t spray bullets wildly, aim carefully. Fight from high ground or cover where you’ve got the advantage… Tons more, but start there.”

“Got it.”

I coached Amami-san beside her while she faced Asanagi.

Results came fast.

“Stick to basics… Aim steady… There!”

“Ah!”

“Yes! First kill off Umi!”

Ten minutes of my tips, and she’d grasped it—snagging her first win off Asanagi, who’d been dominating her.

Asanagi’s gotten good from home practice and our weekends, but—

That slick move Amami-san pulled off? For a flash, it felt sharper than my usual plays.

She says she barely touches these games, but she might have a natural knack for them.

“Hmph… T-That was just me slipping up! I wasn’t serious!”

“Hehe~ Oh? Then I’ll beat serious Umi next time!”

After that, I stopped advising and just watched their matches.

“You little slippery…!”

“Over here, Umi-chan! Catch me if you can~!”

“Tch, this chick’s for real…!”

The bestie battle heated up more than expected, but after an hour, we called it quits.

They clearly wanted more, but dragging it out too late wasn’t an option—especially after my recent screw-up.

“Muu, only won three more times after that… Kinda frustrating.”

“Beating me at all when I play this much is honestly shocking.”

Asanagi’s right—games like this, with high skill ceilings, are brutal for newbies.

Even with my tips, Amami-san—whose controller time you can count on one hand—taking wins off Asanagi is kinda wild.

“See ya, Maki-kun. Let’s hang out again sometime!”

“Yeah, sure. See you.”

I’d rather this be a one-off, but it feels like there’ll be a next time.

“Umi, what’s wrong? Let’s go!”

“Oh… Sorry, forgot something. I’ll catch up quick—go ahead, Yuu.”

“Huh? If it’s lost, I’ll help—”

“No, no, it’s fine. I know where it is. Go on, you’ve got your shoes on—shoo!”

“Oh? Okay then… See you!”

Asanagi half-pushed Amami-san out the door.

“…Good work, Asanagi.”

“You too, Maehara.”

Finally, just me and Asanagi alone that day.

“…Sheesh, that girl. She can do anything.”

“The game? Yeah, she’s deft, but that level’s not a big deal if you just—”

“It is a big deal. Today was tame, but give her two, three more rounds, and Yuu’ll get scary good. Anything she likes, she sucks up fast, and before you know it…”

“…Asanagi?”

“…Oh, sorry, turned into a rant. She’s like a talent sponge, y’know? Sometimes I can’t help feeling this way.”

“Oh… Yeah, I kinda get that.”

Some people, like Amami-san, just get stuff. Studies, sports—skills or knowledge others grind hours for, they nail in no time.

Good at everything, loved by everyone—she’s that girl. Even as Asanagi’s beloved best friend, being next to her all the time might spark a tiny twinge of jealousy now and then.

“So yeah, I’d appreciate it if you’d get my struggles as Yuu’s bestie sometimes… See ya, Maehara. Today was fun.”

“Yeah. You’re welcome.”

“Later.”

“Yeah, later.”

Asanagi had been chipper ’til then, but as she left, her profile looked oddly lonely for a split second. Was that just me?