Chapter 6 | Our First Fight?

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“I heard everything from Nina. About what caused the fight.”

“…Mm.”

“You like Maki, don’t you? Not just as a friend, but as a guy, properly.”

The moment I stepped into the room, I cut straight to the chase with my best friend.

I’d had a vague feeling about it. I wasn’t certain, so unlike Nina, I’d been keeping my distance, observing.

Seeing my best friend nod in resignation at my question, I let out a small sigh.

Finally, she’d said it.

“…Yuu, what is it about Maki that you fell for?”

“Um… I, I…”

“It’s okay, I won’t yell or look down on you or anything. …Well, saying I’m not mad at all would be a lie, though.”

“…I’m sorry.”

“…Yeah.”

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

“…Mm.”

I pulled my teary-eyed best friend into a hug, letting her apologize as much as she needed until she calmed down.

The responsibility for pushing her this far surely lies with me, too.

Why did I say something like that back then?

Knowing Yuu might overhear, I answered Nina’s question with ‘we’re done.’ Even for a moment, to think that and put it into words. What a horrible person I am.

If I’d jokingly said something like, ‘How dare you go after my boyfriend! I’ll knock you out!’ it probably wouldn’t have escalated this far.

A quick flick to Yuu’s forehead—maybe a gentle tap (or a solid whack?)—and it could’ve all been squared away.

But that’s not how it went.

I’m too attached to Maki, then and now, to brush it off as a joke.

I didn’t want to think about him being with another girl.

Logically, I know there’s not a chance in a million that Maki would fall for someone else.

But what if that someone was Amami Yuu?

A girl with breathtaking beauty, like she stepped out of a story, with a radiant smile and brightness that lights us up like a main heroine—Yuu.

What if Maki ended up liking Yuu more than he likes me?

Caught up in those delusions, the negative feelings I’d once felt toward Yuu started bubbling up again.

I’m the one who should be apologizing, not Yuu.

Yet here I am, leaning on my best friend’s kindness again.

“…Hey, Yuu, Maki’s really kind, isn’t he?”

“Yeah. He’s usually shy and hates standing out, but whenever we’re in trouble, he’s always there, no matter what, meddling in the best way.”

“Like when you’re feeling lonely or just want someone—anyone—by your side, he’s always there for you.”

“Exactly. …That’s how much Maki-kun worries about us. Probably more than he worries about himself.”

“I get it. But since he’s not used to doing stuff like that, he can be so clumsy it’s almost dangerous to watch, so we end up needing to look out for him instead.”

“…And before you know it, you’re only looking at Maki-kun.”

“You can’t take your eyes off him, right?”

Maybe her emotions settled a bit, because Yuu started responding to me.

Maybe because we’re talking about the boy we both like, all sorts of stories and complaints keep bubbling up.

Listening to Yuu and seeing her face light up as she talks about Maki, it’s clear.

Yuu has truly fallen for Maehara Maki.

“So, you fell for him, huh… you too, Yuu.”

“Yeah. I did.”

“Best friends, and we didn’t need to be similar in this way, did we?”

“Hehe, nope. But that’s just how amazing Maki-kun is. Doesn’t matter what your type is.”

“Right? Why doesn’t everyone else see how great Maki is? Are the kids in our class blind or something?”

To us, he’s a diamond in the rough. His looks can improve with time, his personality is outstanding, and he absorbs and grows from everything we teach him like a sponge.

For now, it’s just us, but as we move up grades and into the future, more people will notice his charm.

“So, Yuu.”

“…Yes?”

“What do you want to do from here? Tell me, honestly, how you feel right now.”

“…………”

Her gaze wandered, and she fell silent for a moment, as if thinking.

Slowly, Yuu placed a hand on her chest, baring her true feelings.

“I like Maki-kun. I thought maybe I should forget him and try to find a new love, but… it didn’t work. …Hey, Umi, love’s pretty incredible, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, it is.”

But because it’s incredible, it can be tricky. The feeling of loving someone can give you immense strength, but it’s hard to control, and when it turns bad, it can lead to irreversible consequences.

…Just like what’s happening to us right now.

“But, Umi, even though I like Maki-kun, I love you just as much. My feelings matter, but if they hurt you, they’re meaningless. If you’re not smiling, I can’t smile either.”

“Even if, hypothetically, Maki became your boyfriend?”

“Yeah. That wouldn’t work, so I’ve been agonizing over it. Even now, I still am.”

Maki’s important, and so am I. Neither is more important than the other.

I understand because I’ve felt the same way before.

“Umi, let me ask you. Knowing I like Maki-kun, what do you think? What do you want me to do from now on?”

“I…”

Now it’s my turn to lay it all bare.

After asking Yuu all this, it’d be unfair if I didn’t have anything to say.

I placed a hand on my chest, resolute. Selfish or not, I have to tell my best friend what I want.

“I want you to let go of Maki for good. I don’t want you to stay friends with him while still liking him. …P-please, don’t…”

“Umi…”

“Don’t scare me anymore…”

The words I slowly squeezed out were my honest feelings.

As her best friend, knowing almost everything about her, I’m terrified.

A love that makes Yuu agonize this much—it’s not something she can easily let go of, I know.

Continuing as friends while gradually coming to terms with her feelings, turning her first love into a distant memory. A story we could laugh about years later when the five of us reunite.

That’d be the ideal resolution, probably.

But that would leave my heart anxious forever.

As long as the premise that Amami Yuu likes Maehara Maki exists in my mind, I can’t see Yuu as my best friend.

So, I want Yuu to forget Maki entirely with this.

Not I like him, but I liked him, in the complete past tense.

“That’s how you really feel, isn’t it, Umi?”

“Yeah. …But it’s not just that. I also want to do something for you, and that’s not a lie.”

Wanting her not to scare me is the deepest emotion I have, but I also want Yuu to find a good way to resolve this love.

Falling for someone isn’t wrong. I don’t want this love to become a trauma that keeps her from moving on to the next one.

If Yuu can’t smile, I can’t either. I don’t want to push my selfish desires onto her alone.

“Yuu.”

“Umi.”

“‘…What do we do?’”

That’s why we’re back to square one.

We don’t know.

How can we satisfy both of our feelings at the same time?

“…I’ll go along with whatever you decide, Umi. I’m not in a position to ask anything of you, after all.”

“Ugh, that’s sneaky, pulling that card now. This is just a discussion, so come on, Yuu, give me your opinion. It’s just an opinion, so I won’t get mad, I promise.”

“…N-not even cutting me off?”

“I won’t!”

We tried thinking it over together, but nothing felt quite right.

We’d slipped away in the middle of a barbecue, and we couldn’t keep ignoring the other three forever, so we wanted to settle on at least one option for now.

Honestly, it’d be simpler if it was just,

‘Forget about Maki.’

‘Okay, got it.’

And done… but both Yuu and I are such complicated people.

“—Ah.”

“What’s up, Umi? Got a good idea?”

“Well, I’m not sure if it’s good… and it’s not something we can decide on our own.”

But personally, I thought it wasn’t a bad idea.

My honest desire to have this be the end of it, and my selfish, willful wish to respect my best friend Yuu’s feelings as much as possible.

To resolve both, the idea I came up with was…

“…So, Yuu.”

“What? Tell me anything.”

“Yeah. …Don’t be shocked, but hear me out.”

I knew this choice would hurt me quite a bit. It was a stupid suggestion. And Maki would probably be exasperated with me.

…Even so.

“How about you and Maki go on a one-time date?”

“…Huh?”

I couldn’t help but think this was the only way to settle everything.

※※※

 

“—And that’s the gist of how it came to this.”

“…………”

I sort of understood the sequence of events, but I wasn’t sure how to respond.

I could guess, without asking for details, why Umi suggested such a thing.

Probably, Umi’s thinking the same thing as Nitta-san.

Instead of bottling it up and hiding it, since it’s out in the open, Yuu should confess properly, get rejected by me, and put an end to her first love.

The idea of a one-time date with Amami-san is likely built on that reasoning.

I know better than anyone how complicated a girl Umi can be.

“So, what do you think, Maki? How do you feel about it?”

“Even if you ask me that… Umi, are you really okay with this?”

“I’m okay. I’ve decided. Yuu’s on board, too.”

Umi’s notoriously jealous, as everyone knows. She should know I’m devoted to her, yet she gets grumpy just from me talking to other girls, and some days it takes a whole day to cheer her up.

So when Umi said, ‘Go on a date with Yuu,’ I was genuinely shocked and confused.

If I’d suggested something like that, I’d be in for more than a flick on the forehead—probably a full lecture and punishment.

Yet Umi chose to sacrifice herself like this.

“Maki, I’ll ask again. …This weekend, would you go out with Yuu? On a date, just the two of you. You can choose the place, and I won’t interfere. I won’t get in the way.”

So, I can do it my way.

How to spend the day with Amami-san.

And how to give her feelings a proper answer in the end.

“…Sorry. Even if it’s your request, Umi, I can’t do it.”

I listened carefully to Umi’s words, thought it over, and rejected the proposal.

For a split second, I noticed Umi’s brow twitch with irritation.

“Why not?”

“…Because I don’t want to do something like that with any girl other than you, Umi.”

It was the result of being honest with my heart, without overthinking.

Umi must’ve agonized over making this proposal. Even if it’s just for one day, even if she and Amami-san promised it’d never happen again.

The idea of someone else—Amami-san—standing by my side where Umi should be.

She must hate that.

That’s why I refused.

“You don’t really want this, do you, Umi? Pretending to offer me up to Amami-san, but deep down, you’re scared to death, aren’t you?”

“Of course I am! I hate it, and I’m terrified that maybe, just that one time, Yuu could turn everything upside down. That I might lose you, Maki. It’s so, so scary.”

“Then you don’t have to do this. You haven’t done anything wrong, Umi. You can think more simply.”

If I were in Umi’s shoes, there’s only one thing I’d say.

—I’m sorry.

And that would end the conversation. Just like when Nozomu confessed to Amami-san.

They figured it out, too. It might’ve been awkward at first, but friends are friends. We can follow their example.

“…Maybe you’re right. That’s probably the normal way.”

“Exactly. Normal’s fine. So why…”

“Because that wouldn’t satisfy me. You get it, don’t you, Maki? My feelings.”

But this time, Umi wouldn’t budge, no matter how I tried to persuade her.

Shaking her head stubbornly at my suggestion, Umi continued.

“Maki, I’ve always relied on Yuu’s kindness. When we first became friends, when I ran away from her in middle school, when we reconciled in high school.

Every time, I prioritized my own feelings, and each time, kind Yuu forgave me and accepted me. I started things on my own, dragged her around, using convenient words like ‘we’re friends’ or ‘best friends.’”

“So you feel guilty because Amami-san’s always forgiven you?”

“Exactly. Since I’ve been forgiven, I have to forgive her, too. Otherwise, it’s not equal. Especially as best friends.”

Umi says that, but is it really true?

I know Amami-san is kind. But she’s not just soft. She can clearly say when she doesn’t like something.

So why does Amami-san accept Umi’s so-called ‘selfishness’?

It’s because Amami-san feels she owes Umi—not just a debt, but deep gratitude.

For reaching out to her when she was alone. For giving her a place to be herself. For always being her best friend, no matter what.

Meeting Umi was that significant for Amami-san, which is why she respects Umi’s feelings and tries to embrace them fully.

Her words about following Umi’s decision seem to reflect that sentiment.

“…But even after all this begging, you won’t listen to my request, Maki. Your cute girlfriend’s rare, heartfelt plea.”

“I’d do anything else for you, but… sorry, this time I think you’re wrong.”

“Tch…!”

I usually agree with everything Umi does and go along with most things, but I can’t comply with this request.

Right or wrong doesn’t matter.

If Umi would feel even a little hurt, even if she’s agreed to it, I’ll firmly say no.

And while Amami-san is an important friend, she’s just that—a friend. I might hang out with friends, but I’d never go out alone with a ‘girl’ friend.

If I’m going on a date, it’s only with Umi.

“Is it really impossible? I’m begging you!”

“Yeah. Absolutely.”

“Idiot! You’re so clueless, Maki!”

“I’m fine being an idiot.”

“Stubborn jerk!”

“Yup. When it comes to you, Umi, I’ll never budge.”

“…Ugh!”

Usually, we’re so in sync it’s like our hearts are connected, but this time we’re clashing, both refusing to yield.

It might be the first time since we became a couple.

I don’t want to fight, if I can help it. With Umi, I always—embarrassing as it is to say—want to be a lovey-dovey couple. I’d rather flirt than argue.

But right now, I felt I couldn’t back down.

The conversation stalled, and both Umi and I walked down the night street, heads bowed.

“Umi, your hand—”

“…Don’t touch me. I… I hate you, Maki!”

With that, she shook off my hand, which had been tightly intertwined with hers until then, and walked away.

That marked the timeout for today.

“…For now, let’s call it a day.”

“Yeah. I’ll head this way, then.”

Normally, I’d walk Umi home and say hi to Sora-san, but in this state, it’d be obvious we’re fighting, so I followed Umi’s lead.

…Though, me not stopping by probably already tipped Sora-san off.

“Umi, see you tomorrow, then.”

“…………”

“What about tomorrow morning? Should I come by for a change?”

“…I’ll let you know when I wake up.”

“Got it. …I’ll be waiting.”

“…Idiot.”

She didn’t say ‘see you tomorrow’ but went straight into her house.

She said she’d contact me, so she’ll probably keep her word.

…I’d better brace myself for a morning alone tomorrow.

“Umi, I’m sorry. …But please, understand.”

Left alone in front of the Asanagi house, I muttered softly.

Just when Amami-san and Nitta-san made up, and we were ready to start fresh as a group of five, now Umi and I are the ones at odds.

We haven’t even been dating a year, but with how intense our time together has been, disagreements like this are bound to happen. Even if our hobbies align, our tastes in food match, and we love each other, our values aren’t identical.

Today drove that point home, painfully.

Our second fight as ‘friends’ and our first as ‘lovers.’

The first time, I pushed through without reading the room, and it somehow worked out. But this time, I have a bad feeling that the same approach won’t cut it.

Should I give in to Umi’s opinion and go on a one-time date with Amami-san?

Or should I stick to my guns and ask Umi and Amami-san to rethink their conclusion?

For the five of us to truly get back to normal, it seems we’ll need just a little more time.

Still reeling from yesterday’s fight with Umi, I spent a sleepless night and woke to an early morning.

I got out of bed earlier than usual, preparing breakfast for Mom, who leaves for work at dawn, when a notification pinged from my phone on the table.

It was a message from Umi.

(Asanagi) Good morning.

(Maehara) Good morning.

(Asanagi) I’m going with Yuu and Nina this morning to make up, so I won’t be stopping by.

(Asanagi) Not that you need me there, anyway.

(Maehara) True, but it’s lonely without you, Umi.

(Asanagi) I’m not lonely.

(Maehara) That’s cold.

(Asanagi) I’m not cold.

(Asanagi) It’s because you’re so stubborn, Maki.

(Maehara) That’s my line.

Trying to cool my head by stepping away from Umi only leads to us heating up again once we start texting.

If this keeps up, it’ll be a repeat of yesterday, so I tossed my phone onto the sofa, forcing myself not to look at the screen.

Pokon, pokon—Umi kept sending messages or stickers, but for now, it’s better to ignore them.

I brewed a scalding cup of black coffee and took a sip to calm down.

“…………”

Without Umi, the morning feels so quiet.

The boiling kettle on the stove, the sizzling eggs in the frying pan—they all feel so lonely now.

—Maki, it’s boiling.

—Maki, it’s about done, right? By the way, I like my eggs runny.

Just one day without Umi, and I’m already hearing her voice in my head, feeling this overwhelming loneliness.

…Looks like Umi’s winning this battle of endurance.

“—Yawn… So sleepy… Maki, breakfast~”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m making it. Go wash your face already. You good on time today?”

“Barely… Ngh, gotta hit the bathroom first…”

Just as I was about to cave to the unbearable loneliness, Mom shuffled out of her bedroom, saving me by distracting me.

Seeing someone even more disorganized than me, who’s moping over a single morning without my girlfriend, snaps me back to reality.

For the first time in a while, I feel like thanking Mom.

“Morning, Maki. …Huh? No Umi-chan today? She’s usually all over you by this time.”

“We’re not that clingy every time. …She’s at Amami-san’s place this morning, so I’m on my own. Deal with it.”

“…What? Did you and Umi-chan have a fight or something?”

“Huh? How’d you— No, no, it’s not like that.”

“Hmm… So, what’s the cause? Spill it to your mom.”

“Can you not assume we’re fighting and move on?”

I tried to deny it, but Mom was already convinced, staring at me without budging.

She’s usually a workaholic with a messy lifestyle, but in moments like this, she’s every bit my mother, watching her only son closely.

“Maki, come on, fess up. If you don’t, I’ll skip work.”

“You just want an excuse to ditch work, don’t you? …Fine, it’s not like I can afford you slacking off with our budget.”

She’d probably go to work anyway, but Mom can be persistent, so I gave in.

…Maybe Umi’s getting the same grilling from Sora-san right now.

Imagining Umi sulking as Sora-san presses her made me burst out laughing.

“…Maki, you okay? Not having an emotional breakdown, are you?”

“Just a random chuckle… Anyway, you want to hear about yesterday, right?”

No choice, so I gave Mom a simplified version of what happened, leaving out the Amami-san part to avoid complications.

Gone was the half-asleep, wandering figure from earlier; now she listened intently, her expression sharp.

“Wow, that’s something… But you two have been together almost a year, right? This stuff’s normal. Back in college, I fought with your dad at least once a month.”

“And you still made it to marriage? …Anyway, forget your old stories. What about us? Who’s right, Mom?”

“Hmm, let’s see…”

After taking a bite of fresh toast and a slurp of my black coffee,

“—Both of you are at fault!”

“! Ow!”

She lightly chopped my head with her hand.

It didn’t hurt, but it was so sudden I yelped reflexively.

“…Or so I’d like to say, but it’s a tough question.”

“Then why’d you just hit me?”

“For making Umi-chan sad.”

“That’s… maybe true, but…”

But blindly agreeing to Umi’s request would only be a temporary fix, and I’d end up hurting her in a different way.

Knowing Umi’s personality—she doesn’t like half-measures—if she wants me to go on a date, she’d expect me to do it properly, even for one day. Not just the itinerary or escorting, but focusing entirely on the person in front of me as basic courtesy.

I agree with that, and when I’m on a date with Umi, I try my best to do exactly that.

But that’s only because I love Umi.

I could never do the same for Amami-san.

“All I can say is, talk to Umi-chan properly. When she doesn’t come over, like today, don’t just let it slide. Avoiding her because you’re fighting will turn you into me and your dad.”

“…Yeah.”

Even small misunderstandings, if they pile up, can ruin even a couple who vowed to spend their lives together.

I respect Mom and Dad, but I don’t want to end up like them.

“Now, hurry up and get ready to go to Umi-chan’s. I’ll handle everything at home.”

“Got it. Then, please take care of the kitchen cleanup, laundry, sweeping, and prepping dinner.”

“…Can’t I just do the kitchen?”

“At least the laundry, please. There’s not much today.”

I’d deal with sweeping and the rest after school, so I got ready with the bare minimum and left the house.

She might already be at Amami-san’s, but if so, I’d just go there, too.

It doesn’t matter if Amami-san and Nitta-san are there. That’s how I’ve always been—ignoring the mood.

“Maki, off you go. Good luck.”

“Yeah, I’m off. Good luck at work, Mom.”

For the first time in a while, Mom saw me off at the door, and I hurried to the Asanagi house.

I sent a message saying, ‘I’m coming to pick you up anyway,’ but it was read without a reply.

I briefly considered heading to Amami-san’s house first but decided to greet Sora-san first.

Ten minutes later, I arrived at the Asanagi house and rang the intercom. As expected, Sora-san answered.

‘Hello?’

“Good morning, Sora-san. It’s Maehara. Sorry for the early visit. …Is Umi still here?”

‘Oh, morning, Maki-kun. Sorry, she was lounging in the living room about ten minutes ago, but the moment she got a message from someone, she rushed to get ready and left.’

“Figures… Got it. I’ll try to catch up with her.”

‘Thanks. Make sure you catch that girl.’

“Of course.”

I thanked Sora-san at the door and headed to Amami-san’s house as planned. Since she promised (or so I assume) to go to school with Amami-san and Nitta-san, she wouldn’t head to school alone.

“! Woof! Woof!”

“Morning, Rocky. Sorry, I’ll play with you properly later, so bear with me for now.”

“Whine…”

He can’t understand me, but maybe he sensed something off, because instead of his usual boundless energy, Rocky just licked my hand lightly and ambled back to the yard.

Normally, he’s a bit of a goof with endless enthusiasm, but maybe he’s secretly pretty smart.

I rang the intercom again, and this time Amami-san answered.

‘Oh? Maki-kun. W-What’s up? This early?’

“Morning, Amami-san. …I heard Umi’s at your place?”

‘Huh? Umi? Um… she hasn’t come by.’

“What? For real? She’s not hiding next to you or anything?”

‘No way, haha! Why aren’t you with Umi today, Maki-kun?’

“Yeah… By the way, Amami-san, you didn’t plan to go to school with Umi today, did you?”

‘? Nope. I’m going with Nina-chi, but I figured I’d run into Umi on the way, so… Maybe she already went to school?’

“…Probably.”

I’d expected Umi to pop out from the door, but Amami-san’s response caught me off guard.

…Wait, I remember now.

When Umi’s blatantly avoiding me, she pulls tricks like this without hesitation.

Telling me, ‘I’m going with Yuu and Nina~,’ knowing that even if I show up to pick her up, she’ll be somewhere else, so it doesn’t matter.

This time, she’s probably in her classroom or maybe the student council room with Nakamura-san or Takizawa-kun.

“That Umi… she lied to me.”

‘Maki-kun… Um, why don’t you come in and talk? I want to hear the details, and the neighbor’s mom is being loud— Oh, she’s already—’

‘Maki-kun? You must be tired from walking. Come in, come in!’

“Uh, I appreciate the offer, but I need to get to school—”

“Woof!”

“! Hey, Rocky, don’t tug my sleeve like that…”

‘Rocky, nice one! Keep Maki-kun there for me!’

“Woof!”

“…I’m done for.”

Before I knew it, Rocky had snuck up beside me and pinned me down, and soon Eri-san arrived, dragging me into the Amami house.

Chasing Umi now would just turn into a game of cat and mouse, so I figured I’d cool off and regroup.

…Besides, talking properly with Amami-san might not be a bad idea. And I could ask for Nitta-san’s help, too.

If Umi’s playing hardball, I’ll use every resource I’ve got.

“—Here you go. Tea okay?”

“Yes. Um, thank you.”

Overwhelmed by Eri-san’s warm welcome, I was ushered into the living room and took a sip of the tea she brewed.

I’m usually a coffee guy, so I don’t know much about tea, but the moment it hit my tongue, an elegant aroma spread, and I could tell without savoring it that these were high-quality leaves.

It’s delicious, but somehow it makes me feel out of place.

“—Maki-kun, sorry for the wait. Um, is it okay if I sit here?”

“Yeah. It’s your house, Amami-san, so do whatever you want.”

“R-Right. It’s just weird having you here alone, Maki-kun.”

Amami-san, now changed from pajamas to her school uniform, sat hesitantly on the chair next to me.

I’d come too early in my rush to catch Umi, and my sloppy grooming showed—her blouse’s tie was crooked, and a single strand of hair stuck out like an antenna from her bun.

“Yuu, if Maki-kun’s here to pick you up, you’ve got to step it up. Come here, I’ll fix it.”

“I-It’s not like Maki-kun came for me… Ugh, forget that, Mom, you’re in the way, shoo! Shoo!”

“Oh, Yuu, so cold! Stingy!”

“M-Mom!”

“Alright, alright.”

Leaving us with a ‘Take your time,’ Eri-san went outside to feed Rocky, who was sitting politely in the yard.

Hayato-san had already left for work, so it was just Amami-san and me in the living room.

Sipping Eri-san’s steaming tea, I filled Amami-san in on yesterday and this morning.

“That’s what happened… Sorry, Maki-kun. This is my fault, isn’t it?”

“You were just going along with Umi, right? No need to apologize.”

“But… if I hadn’t, you know, liked you, Maki-kun…”

“Well, if you trace it back, sure, but… that’s over now. Uh, I mean, not ‘over’ in that sense—”

“N-No, it’s fine! I get it, really!”

We haven’t fully resolved things, but essentially, I’m the one who ‘rejected’ and Amami-san’s the one who ‘got rejected,’ so we can’t help but get a bit awkward around each other.

But that’s that, and this is this. We won’t get anywhere without talking properly.

“Amami-san, can I ask you straight-up?”

“Y-Yes!”

“Do you, uh, want to go on a date with me?”

“Uh… W-Well, um…”

After scanning the room to make sure Eri-san wasn’t peeking, Amami-san gave a small nod.

“So, you do want to?”

“…Honestly, I’m kind of curious.”

“Completely separate from what Umi said?”

“Yeah. Umi’s always telling me about your dates, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little jealous. Plus, with you, Maki-kun, I wouldn’t feel too nervous.”

So, Amami-san’s on Umi’s side.

Between respecting Umi’s idea and her own curiosity about dating a guy (me, in this case), she has no reason to oppose Umi.

And Nitta-san probably feels the same. No, Nitta-san would probably say something like, ‘Just go on the damn date, it’s not like it’ll kill you.’

So, at this point, it’s Umi: 2, Me: 0. If this were our usual five-person majority vote, I’d have lost already.

“So, personally, I’d be happy if you gave in, Maki-kun. But if Umi says, ‘No date after all,’ I’ll follow her. I think you’re… great, and a date would be nice, but Umi’s feelings come first.”

“That part never changes, huh?”

“Yeah. Because Umi’s my best friend.”

So, I’ve got to convince Umi somehow.

If I can’t rely on Amami-san or Nitta-san, who else could I turn to?

Someone close enough to Umi to make her listen and change her mind.

“…Got it. I’ll try to handle it on my own a bit longer. Thanks for the tea. Tell Eri-san thanks, too.”

“Huh? You’re leaving already, Maki-kun? Why not stay and go with Nina-chi and me?”

“That’d be nice, but if Umi caught us, I’d get more than a scolding, so I’ll pass.”

“Haha, you’re the same as ever, even in a fight.”

“Well, we’re fighting, but I still love Umi just as much.”

“Yeah… Ugh, Umi’s so lucky. Having someone this devoted. I want someone like that, too.”

“…You’ll find someone, Amami-san. I’m sure of it.”

But one thing’s certain: that someone won’t be Maehara Maki.

I think our interactions have made that clear.

“Well, I’m off. Sorry for the early visit.”

“Take care, Maki-kun. I’ll catch up once Nina-chi gets here. See you in class.”

“Yeah. In class.”

Seen off by Amami-san, I hurried back the way I came, toward school.

It’s the time when club members are heading to morning practice, but it’s too early for regular students, so storming into Class 11 shouldn’t cause a scene.

First, I’ll check if she’s in the student council room.

(Maehara) Morning, Takizawa-kun.

(Takizawa) Good morning, senpai.

(Takizawa) What’s up? It’s pretty early.

(Maehara) Sorry. I’ll explain later, but… where are you right now?

(Takizawa) Me? I just got to the student council room with Mio-senpai.

(Takizawa) We’ve got some urgent prep to do.

(Maehara) Thanks for the hard work. So, Umi’s not there, right?

(Takizawa) Asanagi-senpai? Nope, it’s just me and Mio-senpai right now…

(Maehara) Got it. Thanks. Keep up the good work.

(Takizawa) Will do. Thanks for the concern.

With Umi’s location almost confirmed, I skipped my own Class 10 and headed straight for Class 11.

Peeking through the hallway window, I saw Umi at her usual seat, chatting with her close classmates—Hayakawa-san, Shichino-san, and Kaga-san.

There were other students, but not many yet.

So, I strolled into Class 11 like it was nothing.

“—Whoa, Maehara-shi, this is as far as you go, buddy.”

“Sorry, pal, but if you wanna talk to our Umi-chan, you gotta get through us first.”

“…Maehara-kun, I think you could at least drop your bag in your own classroom before coming here.”

The moment they noticed me, the three of them blocked my path like a wall.

Through the gaps, I caught Umi’s exasperated glance my way.

“Sorry, I need to talk to Umi alone…”

“Hehe, we’d love to let you, but our princess is all like, ‘No way,’ so what can we do?”

Seems Umi planned this far ahead.

I puffed out my cheeks in frustration, and Umi stuck out her tongue at me cutely with a ‘Bleh.’

To outsiders, it might look like a childish spat, but we’re dead serious.

For a second, I considered forcing my way through—Shichino-san and Kaga-san are petite, but Hayakawa-san (vice-captain of the girls’ kendo team) is too tough to handle.

“…Fine. I’ll back off for now.”

“Coming back at lunch? You’re not giving up today, are you?”

“…………”

I stared silently at Hayakawa-san and the others, letting that be my answer.

I’ve always been stubborn, but when it comes to Umi, I’m even more relentless.

“Umi.”

“…What?”

“I’ll be waiting.”

“…Do whatever you want.”

“Yeah. I will.”

Declaring that to Umi, who turned away with a huff, I slunk out of Class 11.

This time, Umi played me perfectly, but as long as she doesn’t skip school, I’ve got plenty of chances.

It’s a battle of persistence now.

But first…

(Maehara) Umi.

(Asanagi) What.

(Maehara) If you really don’t want me bugging you, just say so.

(Asanagi) Idiot.

(Maehara) Got it.

(Asanagi) You really got it from that?

(Maehara) At least I know you’re not seriously mad yet.

She left me on read after that, but I bet she’s muttering ‘Maki, you idiot’ in class right now.

Thinking that lightened my mood just a bit.

Still, Umi’s guard was extra tight today, and I didn’t get a single chance to talk to her all morning.

I checked Class 11 after every period, but she always had at least two people around her, so I couldn’t find an opening.

Oddly, Nakamura-san, who’d usually jump into something like this, wasn’t part of Umi’s circle today.

She’s probably swamped with student council work and too busy for this, which I’m personally grateful for.

With face-to-face talks blocked and messages ignored since morning, lunchtime arrived.

As expected, my lunch invite to Umi’s phone was ignored, and I was at a loss when Amami-san approached, with Nitta-san right behind her.

“Maki-kun.”

“Yo, Class Rep. Heard from Yuu-chin—you two are going at it hard, huh?”

“I’d prefer to settle this quietly, but… well, you know.”

They’re probably worried and checking in, but who’d have thought I’d switch places with Amami-san and Nitta-san so fast?

Last year was the same, but why does it always end up with me and Umi’s conflict driving the story?

Amami-san and Nitta-san, who were at odds for over a month, are already back to normal, sticking close like nothing happened.

“Figured you’d be lonely eating alone, so the cute duo’s here to save the day. Or what, you planning to pull a someone and ghost everyone?”

“Haha, who’s this someone, Nina-chi?”

“Oh? You sure you want me to say it in front of our classmates? If Arae-cchi finds out, you’re toast, right?”

“Tch, that’s not true! Right, Nagisa-chan?”

“…Don’t drag me into your mess.”

Their bickering brings back last month’s fight, making me nervous, but it also shows they’re close enough now to speak their minds freely, so it’s probably fine.

Amami-san and Nitta-san aren’t just ‘friends’ anymore.

“Come on, Maki-kun, let’s go. We need a strategy meeting to figure out how to make up with Umi.”

“I’d appreciate the help, but… are you sure? I thought you and Nitta-san were on Umi’s side.”

“We are, but right now, you’ve got literally zero allies, Class Rep. So, as your ‘friends,’ we gotta at least have your back. Right, Yuu-chin?”

“Exactly. To our usual spot, let’s go! Oh, and Nozomu-kun’s joining us later.”

“Uh, okay… Just, could you not tug my uniform so hard…”

Pulled along by Amami-san’s now fully cheerful energy, the three of us—minus Umi—headed to our familiar spot by the warehouse in the school courtyard.

I sent Umi a message saying, ‘We’re at the usual spot (with everyone),’ but I never imagined I’d be here without her.

“—Yo, sorry to keep you waiting. …Whoa, she’s really not here.”

“Is it that surprising? …Nozomu, thanks for coming.”

“No need for thanks. So, where do I sit?”

“Seki, on the ground.”

“Oh, really? Fine, I’ll squeeze in next to you, Nitta. Scoot over, scoot.”

“Huh? Ugh, fine, whatever… Touch me even a little, and you’re dead.”

“Yes, yes.”

With Nitta-san and Nozomu’s banter included, the three of them are completely back to normal.

…If only Umi and I could join them.

“I was shocked when Amami-san told me, but… you’ve got it rough, Maki. You didn’t even do anything.”

“Oof!”

“Oh, that’s a critical hit on Yuu-chin. Not bad, Seki. I’m a little impressed.”

“R-Really? But, like, Maki’s clearly not at fault here… If anything, it’s Amami-san for falling for him—”

“Guh…!”

“Nozomu, Amami-san’s taking damage, so let’s drop that for now.”

Nozomu’s being harsher than usual, but considering what Amami-san did to him, it’s understandable.

I’m with Umi, Amami-san likes me, and Nozomu’s been crushing on Amami-san—it looks simple, but there’s a tangled mess underneath.

Being close isn’t bad, but we need to rethink our boundaries and learn from this.

“So, how do we get Asanagi to talk to Maki face-to-face? Knowing her, a direct approach won’t work.”

“Hmm… Maybe lure her with tasty food and have Maki-kun waiting at the trap?”

“Only you’d fall for something that obvious, Yuu-chin.”

“I-I wouldn’t fall for such an obvious trickiseek trap!”

“Then it’s no good…”

If we don’t care about the method, there are plenty of ways to get close to Umi. Before or after school, when she’s alone, or having Amami-san or Nitta-san call her out.

But would such methods achieve our goal of having a proper, satisfying one-on-one conversation with Umi? If meeting only hardens her stance, it defeats the purpose.

Not by force, but getting her to come to us willingly.

How do we create such a convenient situation?

While eating lunch, the four of us tossed around ideas, but… no brilliant plan emerged, and lunchtime ended.

“Fifth period’s about to start, so let’s wrap up. …Thanks, everyone, for taking the time for me.”

“It’s not just for you, Maki-kun. It’s for you and Umi.”

“Exactly. Without you two being your usual lovey-dovey selves, we can’t relax either.”

“Hurry up and make up so we can all be idiots together again, the five of us.”

“…Yeah. You’re right.”

Since Umi and I both want the same thing, in the end, I have no choice but to take the direct approach.

I need to lay my honest feelings bare, tell her ‘I want to make up,’ and hope she forgives me.

What I need now is a setting for that and an excuse to get Umi there.

Someone, anyone, isn’t there something?

Clutching at straws, I grabbed my phone and noticed a message addressed to me.

(Takizawa) Maehara-senpai.

(Takizawa) Sorry for contacting you right before fifth period.

(Maehara) It’s fine, I’m not in a moving classroom, so I’ve got a bit of time.

(Maehara) So, what’s up?

(Takizawa) Yes. I’ll explain in detail after school, but…

(Takizawa) I actually need advice from you seniors.

(Maehara) Seniors… not just me?

(Takizawa) Yes. The president asked me to reach out to all of you.

(Maehara) Nakamura-san?

(Takizawa) Right. Maehara-senpai, Asanagi-senpai, Amami-senpai, Nitta-senpai… Seki-senpai’s probably busy with club activities, so it might be tough for him.

With classes starting, we agreed to continue after fifth period, but I couldn’t contain my excitement.

This could definitely get Umi to show up. No, she’d probably rather avoid it, but knowing her personality, she wouldn’t be able to refuse this request.

I firmly grasped the unexpected lifeline that had been thrown my way.

After somehow getting through fifth and sixth periods, the long-awaited after-school time arrived.

The first place I headed after leaving the classroom was the student council room.

“—Hey.”

“We’ve been expecting you, Maehara-senpai. We’re still preparing seats, so please wait a moment.”

“Oh, I’ll help. I got here way earlier than the designated time because I was too eager.”

They’d set a slightly later meeting time to accommodate our schedules, but I was so thrilled at the prospect of finally talking to Umi properly today (hopefully) that I bolted out of class the moment homeroom ended and came straight here.

By the way, Amami-san and Nitta-san are on class duty, Nakamura-san and Umi’s Class 11 is still in homeroom, and Nozomu’s at club activities, so he won’t be joining this discussion.

“I was a bit shocked when I heard, but… following last year, we’re doing it again this year, huh? The Christmas party.”

“Yes. It was supposed to be a one-off event last year, but there were surprisingly many requests to hold it again… This year, Tachibana Girls’ Academy is taking the lead in planning.”

“I see. That means it’s manageable even with the current student council’s numbers.”

“Exactly. They said they’d handle the staffing needs, so it’s not an issue.”

“They’re really motivated, huh. Is there someone like Tomoo-senpai from last year over there?”

“Well… I’ve met that person a few times during planning meetings, and they did have a similar vibe.”

The student council members had been busy with this alongside the sports festival, and now I knew why.

Looking at the proposal, this year’s event would include two or three more schools, and the venue would be upgraded to a larger location accordingly.

They wanted our input, as last year’s staff, on the operations, content, and flow of the multi-school Christmas party set for Christmas Eve in late December.

That said, rather than calling us ‘staff,’ we were more like ‘helpers.’ Wouldn’t it be quicker to ask Tomoo-senpai and the former student council members who organized it last year? …Well, I won’t overthink the choice of people.

My job is to fulfill the request properly.

As Takizawa-kun and I carried chairs and a long table from the storage room next to the student council room and set them up, the others who’d finished their tasks started arriving.

“Hello~… Oh, Maki-kun, you’re already here. I told you to wait until I finished class duty, but you just up and left!”

“Yo, Class Rep. …And Takizawa-kun, too.”

“Hello, Amami-senpai, Nitta-senpai. Please take the seats across from here.”

The two sat at the U-shaped table arrangement, leaving four seats open.

The middle table was for Vice President Takizawa-kun and President Nakamura-san, which meant the two seats facing Amami-san and Nitta-san would be for me and the last person… Umi.

Takizawa-kun and I took our assigned seats, and after a few minutes of waiting…

The two from Class 11, who’d finished their slightly delayed homeroom, arrived at the student council room.

“Oh, everyone’s already here. Impressive, impressive. …Come on, Umi-chan, don’t just stand there, get over here.”

“…Excuse me.”

As expected, Umi couldn’t refuse a request from Nakamura-san. She looked reluctant but still showed up in front of us.

It hadn’t even been a full day since our fight, but seeing Umi up close made her look even cuter.

“President, the materials are ready, so let’s begin. Asanagi-senpai, could you sit next to Maehara-senpai?”

“Oh, yes…”

With Nakamura-san quickly claiming the seat next to Takizawa-kun, Umi surprisingly sat beside me without much fuss.

“Umi, um… morning.”

“Morning? It’s almost evening.”

“Yeah, but I haven’t gotten to say it all day. …So, morning, Umi.”

“…………Mornin’.”

She still wouldn’t look at me, but just getting a greeting back was a step forward.

That alone lifted my spirits considerably.

“Hehe, nice one, Maki-kun.”

“Hey, Asanagi, I get how you feel, but stop being so stubborn. It’s kinda lame.”

“…………Whatever. I’m fine being lame.”

Umi turned away from Amami-san and Nitta-san, who were grinning at us, putting up a small act of defiance.

Glancing at her hands, I noticed she was busily typing something on her phone… and then a message from Umi popped up for me.

(Asanagi) Maehara-kun.

(Maehara) Yes, Asanagi-san?

(Asanagi) Stay outside a two-meter radius, please.

(Maehara) Uh, that’s physically impossible, so can we not?

(Asanagi) Then don’t touch me so casually.

(Maehara) Can I hold your hand?

(Asanagi) Obviously not.

(Maehara) Aww~

(Asanagi) Don’t ‘aww’ me.

I was playing dumb a bit, but her quick responses made me so happy I couldn’t help but get carried away.

She’s right next to me, so we could just talk, but for the two of us right now, texting might actually be easier than speaking.

“…Maehara-shi, Asanagi-chan, if you’re that desperate for alone time, want to use the storage room next door? It’s soundproof, so you can be a little loud and it’s fine.”

“N-No, we’re good! Geez, Nakamura-san, you jerk!”

“Haha, sorry, sorry. …Souji, let’s start with the explanation.”

“Uh… Well, we don’t have much time, so let’s get started. Seniors, please look at the materials in front of you.”

With Takizawa-kun leading the discussion, we began with an overview of the Christmas party. Like last year, it’s set for December 24th, Christmas Eve. Participants include our school (Joutou High School), Tachibana Girls’ Academy, and a few new schools from the city. The venue’s moving from last year’s civic hall to a section of an event space used for trade shows and concerts. The cost is likely much higher than last year, but Tachibana Girls, the organizers, will handle that somehow.

…Say what you will, but that’s an elite girls’ school for you.

“So, as Souji explained, the framework’s set, but the content—what we do during the party to entertain everyone—isn’t decided. Souji and I alone keep coming up with biased ideas.”

“Don’t drag me into this. The biased ideas are all yours, Mio-senpai.”

“Hm? What’s that? Weren’t your suggestions pretty risqué?”

“How is dancing together as a group risqué? You’re the one with weird fantasies, Mio-senpai.”

Yeah, we should probably take over the planning.

By the way, the content will be finalized at next week’s representatives’ meeting, so it’s a pretty big responsibility.

“Hmm, I think dancing’s not a bad idea. Moving to music together is surprisingly fun, and it could help people from different schools bond.”

“True. But some people might end up left out, so for fairness, a bingo game might be the safest bet. With fancy prizes or a creative twist, it could get exciting.”

According to the materials, with more schools joining, the party’s extended from two to three hours. So, while bingo’s good, adding another lively event could keep the energy up.

“What do Maehara-senpai and Asanagi-senpai think? Anything, even silly ideas, is fine.”

“Hmm… Maybe a group game or a quiz competition between schools… But that feels too generic and might not hype things up enough… Uh, what do you think?”

“? Umi, by ‘you,’ do you mean me?”

“There’s literally no one else next to me.”

“Fair point.”

Umi’s pricklier than usual, but she’s actually listening to me, so I want to come up with an idea that satisfies her and everyone else.

Personally, I’m okay with Amami-san’s dancing idea. A dance time at a Christmas party would likely involve pairing up, so I could just enjoy it with Umi.

…That’d be fine if I were only thinking about myself.

“Maehara-senpai, any thoughts?”

“Like Umi, I’m struggling to find a ‘perfect’ idea… If I could plan it however I wanted, I might have something, but…”

“That’s totally fine. It could spark a great idea.”

“It’s brainstorming, Maehara-shi. Souji and I threw out embarrassing stuff, so come on, join us in the embarrassment.”

The whiteboard behind Nakamura-san had a list of ‘just throwing it out there’ ideas. Things like hiring a comedian for a live show or a matchmaking event for volunteers from each school—stuff likely to get rejected due to budget or being too improper for high schoolers in a public setting.

…If it’s okay to suggest things that won’t get picked, there’s one thing I’d love to try.

“…Alright, I’ll throw one out there.”

With everyone’s eyes on me, I stood up and wrote my idea on the whiteboard.

Holy Night B-Grade Shark Movie Screening

“…………”

The moment they saw my modestly written suggestion, the air in the student council room froze.

“…See, I knew they’d react like that.”

“Huh? No, I think it’s super you, Maki-kun, and I love it! Sharks aside, showing a movie isn’t a bad idea. Right, Nina-chi?”

“Ugh, don’t put me on the spot, Yuu-chin… Well, a full movie’s too long, but a short film, like 15 or 30 minutes, could work.”

“Right. And if it’s a video we made ourselves, it’d have an in-group vibe that could get people pumped. Right, Mio-senpai?”

“Sounds good. Editing software’s solid these days, and if we don’t obsess over quality, it won’t take much time or money.”

I’m glad my idea sparked lively discussion, but I’m a bit sad the shark element got axed so quickly.

…Personally, I think watching a shark movie while poking fun at it would be fun.

“…Pfft, haha!”

My ‘B-grade’ and ‘shark’ idea totally flopped with Amami-san and the others, but there was one other person who’d probably back it wholeheartedly.

“Umi, you don’t have to laugh that hard…”

“Sorry, sorry. But no matter how fun it is, you can’t show a shark movie to a big crowd. Who wants to watch people get chomped by man-eating sharks on Christmas Eve? What kind of punishment is that?”

Seeing the other four casually dismiss the shark idea and move on must’ve hit her funny bone.

…I was pretty serious about it, though. Of course, I’m thrilled Umi gets it.

“But I kinda get where you’re coming from, Maki. Shark movies can meet pretty much any request. Quality’s another story, though.”

“Exactly! If length’s an issue, there are short ones. If gore’s a problem, there are blood-free ones or straight-up comedies.”

“Yup. Shark movies have everything.”

“So much that it’s like they have nothing.”

“Haha, what’s that supposed to mean? I don’t get it… But somehow, I totally understand how you feel.”

Umi laughed at me, but this was the first real conversation we’d had all day.

It’s not a big deal, and it doesn’t mean we’ve made up.

Still, being able to get a little excited with Umi made me happy.

It reassured me that our connection hasn’t changed, and I felt relieved.

“…Hey, Umi, sorry to interrupt you two getting all hyped up, but does this mean you and Maki-kun are good now?”

“W-Well… that’s, um, a different… matter…”

“Then why are you crying while laughing? Isn’t it because you’re relieved to talk to Maki-kun like always?”

“! What? No way, I didn’t mean…”

“Oh, my bad. Guess I got it wrong. You weren’t crying at all, Umi.”

“…………”

The moment Amami-san stuck out her tongue playfully, Umi’s face turned bright red, and she lunged—only to be stopped by Nitta-san stepping in.

“Whoa, Asanagi, stop, stop! I get how you feel, but causing a scene in the student council room is bad news!”

“Nina, let go! That joke’s unforgivable! Hey, Yuu, don’t hide behind Nakamura-san, you coward!”

“Eek, Umi’s scary!”

“…Geez, you guys are as loud and lively as ever.”

The serious meeting turned chaotic, and even Nakamura-san sighed in exasperation at the rowdy atmosphere.

Amami-san teasing our cozy moment, Umi getting flustered when called out, and Nitta-san stepping in to mediate when it counts.

Before I was with Umi, or right after we started dating, I saw scenes like this all the time.

As we got used to being a couple, we’d brush off the teasing and flirt openly, but…

This is where it all began for me and Umi—and for the five of us, including Amami-san, Nitta-san, and Nozomu.

“…Haha, ha…”

Watching the three girls put on their familiar show, oblivious to Nakamura-san and our junior Takizawa-kun, a single tear rolled down my cheek.

…I’m still such a crybaby.

“! Maki…”

“M-Maki-kun, you okay? Were you, like, in pain from Umi pinching your stomach earlier?”

“Yuu-chin, maybe ease up on the teasing? I’m starting to get annoyed. …Class Rep, if you’re tired, want to take a break?”

“No, I’m fine. Just laughed too hard. It’s just tears from laughing.”

That said, I barely slept last night, and with all the emotional ups and downs from early morning till now, I might be mentally drained.

Maybe they picked up on that, because we didn’t dive into more discussion, and we called it a day, agreeing to continue later.

There’s a continuation. That means I’ll get to be with Umi like this again, at least.

Leaving the rest to Nakamura-san and Takizawa-kun, we headed home first.

The sun had set, and the four of us walked down the dimly lit hallway together.

“Hey, Umi, let’s all walk home together today, okay? Come on, it’s fine, right?”

“…Um…”

Umi glanced at me briefly but ultimately nodded, agreeing to Amami-san’s request.

“Umi, uh…”

“What?”

“Sorry about earlier. I made things awkward for you.”

“No… I’m the one who should be sorry, I guess.”

We both said ‘sorry,’ but this wasn’t the ‘sorry’ of making up, so the awkward air between us remained.

My beloved girlfriend, my lover, is right here, yet she feels so far away.

If I reached out, I could touch Umi. I could hold her hand and feel her warmth.

But if I prioritized my feelings and she got angry or rejected me… That thought froze me in place.

…This is bad. I just cried, and now my eyes and nose are tingling again.

I can’t let Umi see me being this pathetic.

I tensed my face, forcing the emotions welling up in my eyes back deep inside.

“H-Hey, Umi, the Christmas party sounds fun, right? With more people joining, maybe we’ll run into old middle school classmates.”

“Dunno. You might, Yuu, but everyone’s probably forgotten me. I wasn’t exactly standout back then. …Also, I haven’t decided if I’m going.”

“What? You’re not going, Umi?”

“I didn’t say I’m not going, but… I’m just not as excited as last year.”

“Umi… Oh, but right. You’ve got Maki-kun, so you don’t need the party. Planning to spend it alone together this year?”

“…If our schedules line up.”

“If they line up… Wait, isn’t that day…”

As Amami-san glanced at me, she remembered that Christmas Eve, the party day, is a crucial date for Umi and me.

The day I properly told Umi ‘I love you.’

The day she accepted my feelings, and we went from ‘friends’ to ‘lovers.’

The day we shared our first kiss.

No matter what, I plan to spend that day with Umi, just the two of us. I’ve already told my part-time job I can’t work, and I’ve been thinking about Christmas gifts little by little.

But Umi didn’t give a clear answer, dodging Amami-san’s question vaguely.

“Anyway, my plans are still up in the air. I want to go to the party, but Aniki and Shizuku-san might come over, and Dad might be back.”

“O-Oh… Right.”

Bringing up family matters left Amami-san unable to press further, and her voice trailed off.

Umi doesn’t actually want to avoid me or the others.

A year as friends, almost a year as lovers—she’s always been the most serious about anniversaries.

But with how things are between us, she can’t say ‘definitely.’

That’s why her answers are so vague.

“Hey, Umi.”

“…What?”

“I’ll ask one more time. …If I go on a date with Amami-san, you’ll let everything slide, right? All of it.”

“!”

Maybe they sensed what I was getting at, because Amami-san and Nitta-san’s eyes snapped to me at the same time.

“Maki-kun…”

“Class Rep…”

I could almost hear them asking, Are you sure about this?

Of course, personally, there’s no way I’m okay with it. If I were, I wouldn’t have rejected Umi’s request in the first place.

But I didn’t want to keep making everyone worry or continue this stubborn standoff with Umi.

I’m done with this kind of atmosphere.

“Umi, you’re really okay with it?”

“…I’ve been saying that from the start. I decided it. Yuu, you’re fine with it, right?”

“I… Yeah. If you’re okay with it, Umi, I don’t mind.”

The question of whether this is truly okay lingers, but if I give in, we can at least smooth things over for now.

On the surface, we can go back to being our usual selves.

Maybe it’s not a big deal. Just one time, going out with a girl other than Umi. She’s agreed to it, so there’s no reason for me to be blamed.

But no matter how I rationalize it, a mental image makes me hesitate.

If I were in Umi’s shoes.

If I saw Umi having fun with another guy, just the two of them.

…Even if it was just once, that wound would linger forever.

That’s what I hated most of all.

“Maki, what’s it gonna be? Will you do what I’m asking?”

“I…”

Should I take Umi’s outstretched hand and make up for now?

Or shake it off, knowing it might push us further apart?

What should I—

Faced with a choice with no clear answer, I stood frozen, unable to act.

—Beep beep!

A comically out-of-place car horn broke the heavy silence.

“? A pickup truck at this hour… Maybe a delivery guy?”

“Huh? But it’s coming toward us, not the parking lot…”

A white pickup truck passed through the school gate, heading straight for the entrance where we stood.

Amami-san and Nitta-san tilted their heads, but Umi and I recognized it.

A delivery truck used for takeout and supply runs, with ‘Shimizu’ written on the door along with a contact number.

While we stood bewildered, the truck slowly pulled up in front of us.

“—Yo, Maki. Sorry for barging in like this. But this was the only time I could make it.”

“! Riku-san.”

“…Aniki?”

Stepping out of the truck was Riku-san, dressed in a chef’s uniform.

Umi must be dying to ask why he’d come all this way.

I was shocked, too, but I’m the only one who knows why Riku-san showed up here.

Because, truth be told, I’m the one who caused him to come.