Haibara’s Teenage New Game+ - Volume 1 - Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Dreamlike Days

One week had passed since the entrance ceremony. It was a Friday in the middle of April, and I had finally gotten used to being a student. I wish I could have said that there’d been nothing to get used to since it was my second time going through high school, but I had forgotten so much, and every day was new and fresh.

The math teacher’s monotonous voice echoed in the classroom. The spring breeze blowing in from the window felt wonderful. Each time I glanced around the room, another student had nodded off. It’s the sixth and final period of the day, so everyone must be pooped.

“This problem will be your homework for today. We’ll end class here,” the math teacher said after seeing the time on the clock. And with perfect timing, the end-of-class bell rang.

“Yaaay, we’re free!” Uta, who sat right in front of me, stretched her arms up into the air.

“You’re such a ball of energy, Uta,” I said with a yawn. She turned around and plopped her elbows on top of my desk.

“Tomorrow’s the weekend! Finally! I’ve been waiting forever! I’m fed up with studying every single day! At last, I can spend all day playing basketball!” Uta exclaimed with as much hype as when she’d first joined the girls’ basketball club.

“And then on Monday, classes will start again, and the cycle begins anew,” Reita muttered from behind me as he packed up his books.

“Can you not burst my bubble right when I’m finally feeling happy?!” Uta grabbed her head, unable to handle the cruel truth he’d presented.

“Dude, you can’t even practice tomorrow.” Tatsuya broke the news to Uta from a few seats away. He looked at her with furrowed brows, confused as to why she was so excited.

Uta stared at him blankly. “What do you mean?”

“Weren’t you listening? There’s construction going on in the gym tomorrow so no clubs can practice,” he elaborated for her.

“Our teacher announced it during homeroom today.” Reita nodded.

“O-Oh yeah. I kinda remember that! B-But it’s okay; I can still practice today!” she said. I thought she would stay slumped over in grief, but she looked up and pumped her fists rambunctiously instead. “But this means I’ll have nothing to do over the weekend,” she realized. “What should I do?”

“Well, Uta-chan, would you like to hang out together?” Hoshimiya came out of nowhere with her same lovely smile and an invitation for Uta.

“Really? I’d love to! Let’s go! Whoo, I get to go on a date with Hikarin!”

“Why don’t we all hang out?” suggested Tatsuya. “I’ve got nothing to do either.”

“Whaaat?! No way! Tatsu, are you trying to get in the way of my date with Hikarin?”

“Now, now, Uta-chan. It’s rare for you both to be free on the weekends. Won’t it be more fun if we all go out together?” Hoshimiya reasoned.

Nanase walked over and said impassively, “If Hikari is going then I am too. I’m available on Saturday.” She started patting Hoshimiya on the head. Over the past week, I’d come to the realization that Nanase doted heavily on Hoshimiya.

Hoshimiya turned in my direction. For a moment I wondered what she wanted from me, until I realized she wanted to know if I had any plans over the weekend.

“I’m free too. I’m not in a club so I’m good for Saturday or Sunday,” I quickly replied.

Whew, that was close. I always assumed that no one would ever invite me out on the weekends, so I wasn’t going to speak up. This isn’t my original high school life—I need to stop letting those memories get to me!

“Then what about you, Reita-kun?” Hoshimiya asked.

Reita looked conflicted and crossed his arms. “I’ve got practice as normal this weekend, but I can hang out Saturday afternoon.”

The gym construction had put a hold on the sports clubs, but only the indoor ones. Reita was in the soccer club, so of course he still had practice.

“Oh yeah. Hoshimiya, do you have club activities over the weekends? You ended up joining the literature club, right?” Tatsuya asked.

She nodded. “I did, but we only meet twice a week on weekdays. I can always hang out on weekends. Well, I can’t go out too much or else my mom and Yuino-chan will get mad at me.”

“If I leave Hikari be, her grades will drop, and pronto! I have to keep my eye on her.” Nanase crossed her arms and sniffed haughtily.

That made Uta smile widely. “Ah ha ha, it’s like you have two moms!”

“Couldn’t you have called me her older sister instead?” Nanase pouted.

It’s cute when she drops her usual mature air and acts childish, I thought.

“All right, we can save the details for later. We have to finish cleaning the classroom or else,” Reita said.

After sixth period, students split into groups to clean the classroom. We each had our own duties such as sweeping the floor, taking out the trash, or wiping the blackboard. Our classmates had begun working while the six of us had been chatting. Our class was full of such good kids! The person on cleaning duty never had to badger anyone to clean.

We all heeded Reita’s suggestion and dispersed for the moment to attend to our chores.

***

That same day after school, my nerves were secretly getting to me as everyone else left for their clubs. I was planning on inviting Hoshimiya out today. Not for a date or anything, I just wanted to ask her if she’d like to head home together. However, I always did like to call myself the ultimate introvert, and that wasn’t helping me right now. Talking to a girl felt like it would completely destroy the equilibrium between heaven and earth. I bet it was nothing much for extroverts, though!

Why today? Well, there were many reasons. First off, one week had passed since school started, and we’d all gotten closer. At first, it took all of my energy just talking to everyone in a group setting, but now I could hold my own in smaller groups of two or three. Not just when talking to Hoshimiya, but with everyone else as well.

The second reason was that tomorrow we’d all be hanging out together, so we actually had something to talk about. Okay, fine, that one was just a coincidence, but it would make it easier to start a conversation.

The third reason involved timing. Hoshimiya was in the literature club, which met on Tuesdays and Thursdays. So those were bad days to ask her to walk home with me. She would probably get creeped out if I told her I’d wait until she finished. On Mondays and Wednesdays, she went home with Nanase. There were ways I could walk home with them, but the two were close friends who’d gone to the same middle school (besides, they were both girls!), and trying to wiggle myself in between them was just too much for me.

However, on Fridays, Hoshimiya didn’t have club activities, and Nanase had lessons near the school, so they didn’t go home together. At least, that’s what I’d learned from my analysis this past week. Hey, don’t call me gross! I was willing to utilize my introverted overanalyzing and plotting tendencies to seize my happy, vibrant school days. I took pride in that.

“Oh? Hoshimiya, you’re heading home alone today?” I called out to her from behind in the hallway, pretending I didn’t know why she was by herself.

Hoshimiya turned around and gently smiled when she saw me. She’s so cute! I thought, and I wasn’t alone in that. Other students in the hallway were also charmed by her loveliness.

“That’s right. Yuino-chan’s busy today.”

“Oh, then let’s walk together. You take the train too, right?” I was actually super nervous while I spoke to her, but I did my best to control my facial expression so none of that would leak out. Am I asking her casually enough? I wondered.

“Yeah, okay!” Hoshimiya nodded with a smile, dispelling my worries. “I take the Ryomo Line to Takasaki. What about you, Natsuki-kun?”

“Looks like we’re riding together until Takasaki. I transfer lines there and ride a little farther.”

“Makes sense; you’re from Mizumi! It must be hard to live so far away.”

“It’s been a whole week so I’m used to it now. It’s only about an hour.”

“Oh, that’s actually close to how long my commute takes. I have to walk a while to get home after I get off at Takasaki. I’m thinking I should start riding my bike to the station!”

That’s how our talk progressed peacefully from my harmless conversation starter. As I walked beside Hoshimiya, I realized that we were attracting a lot of attention. Wow, does Hoshimiya get stared at like this every day? That’s...that’s kind of rough! Feels like a downside of being too cute. Or is she getting stared at even more than usual because she’s walking with a boy? As the thought occurred to me, I started noticing more envious gazes aimed straight at me.

Bwa ha ha ha! You gloomy losers! You’ll never be able to walk home with Hoshimiya like this! What a sweet, sweet sense of victory and superiority! So this is what it means to live your youth to the fullest, I gloated in my head.

“I feel like people are staring a lot today,” Hoshimiya whispered uncomfortably.

“I feel ya. Walking with you is really different, as expected of the school’s number one beauty.”

“Stop! Don’t take Yuino-chan seriously! And anyway, that’s my line!”

I hesitated and then asked, “What do you mean?” My brow furrowed in confusion. I genuinely didn’t get what she was implying.

“I don’t attract this many stares when I walk alone. I’m not an idol, after all! They’re not just staring at me. They’re staring at you too, Natsuki-kun!”

“They’re...staring at me?” No way, I thought. That’s impossible! Sure, I worked out a little and styled my hair a bit, but this is me we’re talking about.

“Aren’t they trash-talking me because I’m with you?” I replied in denial.

“Ah, I see. Natsuki-kun, you’re the oblivious type.”

I looked at her, flabbergasted.

“I see; I see. Hmm. I understand you a bit more.”

Red alert! I’m not following at all. But Hoshimiya looks like she’s having fun, so I guess it’s fine? I get that we’re talking about me here, but beyond that I am totally lost.

“I don’t get what you’re on about, but no one stares at me when I’m alone, you know,” I said. Okay, well, sometimes I hear girls whispering about me. I wish they would stop gossiping about me behind my back just because I’m a nobody who infiltrated the popular kids!

“You really are dense,” Hoshimiya replied.

“Me, dense? No way. There aren’t many people who are as perceptive as me,” I countered. In the past, I thought the girl sitting next to me had a thing for me just because she picked up my eraser for me. Later, I found out that she had a boyfriend who was in college... Okay, maybe this story has nothing to do with me being perceptive or not. I just got the wrong idea.

“Ha ha, if you say so. Let’s just leave it at that for today.” Hoshimiya smiled at me. The pounding of my heart blew any semblance of thought clear out of my mind, leaving me with nothing to say in return.

“What should we do tomorrow?” she asked, changing the topic. “We didn’t get to plan since everyone went to their clubs.” I’d also been about to divert us to that subject myself.

“Why don’t we just discuss the plans over RINE tonight?” I suggested.

“But we haven’t made a RINE group yet.”

“Oh, right. I thought for sure we’d made one already.” I said that, even though I barely registered RINE’s existence at all. I’ve always had a reputation—if you could even call it that—for not being invited to the class group chats. Ha ha.

“Same.” Hoshimiya giggled and took her smartphone out of her pocket. While opening up the app, she said, “Why don’t we make one now? A chat for all six of us.”

We had all exchanged RINE info on our first day after the entrance ceremony, so all we had to do was create the group and invite the members. At least, I thought that was how it worked. I wouldn’t know; I’d never made one.

“What should we name the group?” she asked.

“Hmm. Just name it something random.”

“I get that it could be literally anything, but that makes it even more stressful! Natsuki-kun, you name it.”

“Okay, how about ‘The Hoshimiya Fan Club’?”

“Hey! It’ll look bad if I make a group with that name.”

“True.” We looked at each other and laughed.

“Okay! Then I’ll name it ‘The Natsuki-kun Fan Club’! How’s that?”

“There’s no way I’d have any fans.”

She paused for a moment before saying, “Hmm, then how about ‘Natsuki-kun’s Fam’?”

“Oy!” I tried to stop her but she’d already made the group. My phone buzzed and I opened it to check. Sure enough, I had an invitation. I guess I’ll be a sport and join without making a fuss. Natsuki-kun joining “Natsuki-kun’s Fam.” What a riot.

“Did you get the invite?”

“Yeah, I’m in the group.”

“Oh, I see you! Yuino-chan joined too. The others are still at their clubs so they probably haven’t noticed yet.”

“Yeah, probably.” Wow, my first group chat. Hah, guess I should celebrate, I thought, as a little jab at myself. A group with five of my seven RINE friends. And the missing two are my mom and my sister. Oh man, I have no friends!

“Natsuki-kun, look this way!” As directed, I turned towards Hoshimiya and instantly heard her phone click.

“Heh heh heh. Got it!”

“What’re you gonna do with a photo of me?”

“Make it the group icon, of course! It’s called ‘Natsuki-kun’s Fam,’ after all!”

“What? No. Hey, wait!” I complained, but the excited Hoshimiya looked so cute that my words lost all force. Whereas I was always carefully trying to ascertain the distance between us before acting, she seized control of my heart with ease.

Ooh, it’d be fun to get back at her, I thought.

“Hey, Hoshimiya. Look over here!”

“Hm?”

I opened the camera app on my phone and snapped a picture of her the moment she turned towards me. Nice, I took a good one. I’ll make it my family heirloom— Wait, no! The plan is to use it for our group photo.

“H-Hey, wait! Natsuki-kun, what’re you doing?!”

“Payback,” I said. I’d also obtained Hoshimiya’s picture through aboveboard means! I win no matter how she fights back. 

Hoshimiya changed the group icon back to her picture of me. In response, I changed it back to my picture of her. She let out a cute little growl and glared at me. It wasn’t at all scary, so I accidentally laughed.

“I know! Let’s compromise and use a picture of both of us,” Hoshimiya said and then sidled up next to me.

A soft, sweet fragrance wafted up my nose ticklishly. My heartbeat accelerated right past light speed. While I was busy wondering what she was up to, our arms were already touching.

“Ready? Smile! Cheese!”

She took a selfie of the two of us with a quick click of her phone. She told me to smile, but I feel like I just made a stupid face. Ugh, this is embarrassing!

“All right, with this, I don’t want to hear any more complaining!” Hoshimiya said as she changed the icon.

I checked RINE again, and sure enough, our picture was the group’s icon. Clearly used to taking pictures, Hoshimiya had a genuine smile. I, on the other hand, was red-faced and grinning stiffly.

While I was still reeling from how dorky I looked, Hoshimiya stopped walking. She was staring at the new group icon.

“H-Hey, uh, Hoshimiya,” I began.

“Wh-What is it?!”

I hesitated while trying to find the right words. Finally I said, “Um, don’t you think this pic is super embarrassing?” Perhaps I was being overly self-conscious, but it looked like we were flaunting how close we were to the others. “Say... If we leave it, it’ll be the first thing everyone else sees when they open the invitation. You know what I mean?”

She carefully considered what I’d said. “Y-You’re right. Oh gosh, this really is super embarrassing. Let’s drop it!” Finally feeling flustered, she turned beet red.

I was starting to get a better grasp of Hoshimiya’s personality. Surprisingly, she was the type of person who’d go with the flow, act spontaneously, and then regret it afterwards.

After we both composed ourselves, we took a conservative picture of the cherry blossom trees lining the road and set that as the group’s icon. Thankfully, no one besides Nanase has joined the group chat. We can just pretend like nothing happened. Of course, right when I thought that, I heard my phone go off.

Nanase Yuino: Can you please refrain from flirting over RINE?

Nanase had witnessed everything from start to finish and sent a message to everyone in the group chat. It made me a tiny bit happy that she thought Hoshimiya and I were flirting, but Hoshimiya was overcome with pure embarrassment.

Hoshimiya Hikari: We’re not flirting!

Nanase Yuino: Uh, anyone watching would think that you two are flirting...

Natsuki: This isn’t my fault

Hoshimiya Hikari: Are you saying it’s mine?!

Natsuki: Well, duh

Nanase Yuino: Whatever. You two are right next to each other so argue in person, not over RINE.

Natsuki: Must you always hit the nail on the head with such accuracy

Hoshimiya Hikari: Anyway, we weren’t flirting!

Nanase Yuino: Yeah, yeah

You didn’t have to deny it that hard; it kinda stings! I kept that thought to myself, though.

“Oh gosh. Yuino-chan, you...” Hoshimiya trailed off.

I glanced at Hoshimiya. Her fair skin was flushed red and she was fanning her face with her hands. I then admired the photo of the two of us that I had secretly saved. I’m making this one my family heirloom.

“It’s Nanase saying that; I’m sure she’s just kidding,” I reassured her.

We continued to chat about silly things and reached the station in a heartbeat. I call them silly, but I really wanted to experience that type of normal idle chatter. A world where I could walk together with everyone—especially with Hoshimiya—was the bright and colorful existence that I desired. It was different from the gray daily life that used to be my reality. I was finally enjoying life the way I had always envisioned.

“We made the group chat, but maybe we should start planning for tomorrow?” Hoshimiya asked.

“Reita has practice in the morning so why don’t we meet up around one or two?” I suggested.

“Okay. Then how about we all meet up in front of the station? You know, since three of us take the train.”

“Good idea. Now all that’s left is to figure out what to do.”

“Yep. I’m the one who suggested the outing, so I’d better think of some options.”

“Hmm. Why don’t we go to a mall or something?”

“That could be good. I wanted to buy some new clothes too,” Hoshimiya said, but the idea didn’t seem to click with her.

I’d read articles like “Hot High School Hangout Spots” online so I had an idea of what we could do near the station. The caveat was that our options were restricted here in Gunma, a prefecture not exactly known for its bustling city life.

“There’s a OneRound kinda near the station. They’ve got a Spor-Cha, karaoke, and an arcade. We could even meet up at someone’s house if anyone lives nearby,” I suggested.

“Oh, a Spor-Cha! That’s a good idea. I was just thinking something physically active would be nice,” Hoshimiya replied.

OneRound was an amusement center that had a variety of attractions, with Spor-Cha being one of them. Spor-Chas were indoor sports complexes that offered facilities and equipment for various recreational activities like basketball, ping-pong, darts, batting practice, badminton, tennis, and more. You could play anything on offer as many times as you wanted as long as it was within the time limit that you’d paid for. Not that I’d ever gone to one before; I’d just read about it on the internet.

“You sound like an old lady who lacks physical exercise.”

“Don’t call me an old lady! Uta-chan and Tatsuya-kun will definitely like it, anyway. The two of them and Reita-kun are always exercising in their club activities. Surely that’s because they love moving around.”

We got through the ticket gate and boarded the train. It was quite crowded, perhaps because of the time of day, even though Gunma residents were more likely than Tokyoites to drive themselves places.

“Will Reita even have energy to play in a Spor-Cha after practice?” I asked.

“Oh, right. Well, we can ask everyone over RINE. It was just a suggestion.”

The train shook with a clickety-clack and off we went. I spotted a number of students wearing the same uniforms as us.

Come to think of it... Something occurred to me.

“Hoshimiya. Are you good at sports?”

“Nope, not one bit. Don’t expect much from me, okay?”

Yep, thought so. I remembered that fact from my first time in high school. Hence why I was surprised she was so excited to go to a Spor-Cha.

“Aren’t there things you like to do even if you’re bad at them? That’s why I want to go there.” Hoshimiya’s innocent comment stabbed me right in the heart.

I took a moment to recover and then said, “Yeah, you’re right.”

Those words resonated deeply with how I’d been feeling lately. Things you like even if you’re bad at them. No matter how much I changed my appearance or acted like a cheerful guy, I was an introvert through and through. The peppy, happy act was hard to keep up and honestly tiring. However, my phony persona was improving my relationships with those around me, and I did enjoy that. My world had been dark and gloomy when I was alone, but now I was surrounded with friends and everything seemed so colorful, so wonderful. Like a rainbow.

That’s why I liked it. I was doing all of this because I truly enjoyed it. Even though I wasn’t cut out for it. Even if I didn’t deserve to be here.

“Thanks, Hoshimiya,” I said. It felt as if she’d affirmed my wayward desire.

“Hm? For what?”

“Nah, it’s nothing. Look, we’re almost at Takasaki.” Just as I said that, the train came to a slow, gentle stop and the doors opened.

“Ah, we’re here. All righty, see you tomorrow, Natsuki-kun!” Hoshimiya said, waving goodbye.

“Yeah, see you tomorrow.” I watched her leave, savoring the simple happiness of my second chance.

***

“Hmm.” Back at home, I was absorbed in contemplation. I’m worried. I’m in some real trouble. What do I wear tomorrow? I could avoid the issue at school since we had uniforms, but tomorrow was the weekend. I had to show up in my own clothes. However, I only had lame shirts and worn-out pants that I’d owned since middle school. I absolutely did not want to show up in those!

“I guess I’ll need to go clothes shopping,” I mumbled.

Not to brag or anything, but I’m a real fashion master. Uh, I mean fashion disaster. Well, I had worn my own clothes for all four years of college, so at least I’d figured out what clothes were safe by then. Okay, fine—all I did was copy whatever the fashion YouTubers wore.

The real problem is, this is seven years in the past. Even if I think it’s passable, it’s possible the clothes might be considered tacky by today’s standards. Ugh, what do I do? 

While I racked my brain for ideas, my phone rang. It was a number I didn’t recognize, but I picked up anyway.

“Hello?”

“Hey, Natsuki? It’s me,” a familiar voice said over the phone.

“Miori? What is it? Also, how did you get my number?”

“I asked Namika-chan for it.”

“Oh, right. You’re friends with my sister.” I had completely forgotten that. It was the same as last time around; Namika and Miori had often chatted back then. “Anyway, why did you ask her for my number?”

“I wanted to do some info gathering. You know, about my Reita-kun.”

“When did he become a thing for you to own?” I asked rhetorically.

“Don’t sweat the details. Can you come out now?”

“Can’t we just talk over the phone?”

“I mean, I guess we could, but we live close to each other so isn’t it faster to talk face-to-face?”

“I guess,” I agreed and left the house. I was only wearing a tracksuit, but I figured it would be fine since it was just Miori. Besides, a tracksuit was about my only wearable outfit right now. “Does the park work?”

“Yeah. Actually, I’m already here.”

I stayed on the phone with her and soon arrived at the park. Miori was sitting on a swing, with the setting sun shining on her. The foliage of the cherry blossom trees had already turned green.

“Ew, you look lame,” Miori said as soon as she saw me.

“That’s the first thing you say? There’s nothing lame or shitty about tracksuits!” I responded, a little hurt. My mentality is as fragile as glass right now!

“Okay, fine, but you showed up in a tracksuit to meet a girl. Really?”

“I don’t really own decent clothes. If anything, this is the best I’ve got.”

“Are you for real?” Miori visibly recoiled and looked almost disgusted. I had to admit, though, she looked pretty good in her casual clothes. She was wearing a girlish white lace blouse and slim-fit jeans.

Man, when I take another look, she does look cute! I’m used to seeing her in uniform, but the gap between this outfit and the stuff she wore back in the day makes her look even cuter. Let’s just leave it at that.

In elementary school, Miori could’ve easily been mistaken for a boy due to her short hair and tomboyish clothes—she was what you might’ve called a “youngster” back then, always wearing shorts that were easy to move around in and stuff.

Maybe I should try asking her for fashion help. I don’t feel like handing out info for free anyway.

“I’ll agree to tell you about Reita, but I have some conditions.”

“Hm? Sure, what is it? Trouble already?” Miori tilted her head questioningly.

Did you really need to tack on “already”? I thought, then said, “Well, you see, I’m hanging out with that crew tomorrow, but...”

“Oh, got it. You’ve got nothing to wear. Am I right?” My predicament seemed like a joke to her.

I nodded. “I don’t know what would happen if I followed my own fashion sense. So, you know, please.”

“You’re going out tomorrow? Then we have to figure it out today. We’re short on time so I think the best we can do is head over to the nearby Unislo and pick something out. It’ll turn out to be safe and boring if you’re fine with that.”

“Safe and boring are fine. Honestly, that’s preferred.”

“Hmm, okay, then let’s get going. I don’t want to get home too late.”

Miori and I left the park together. The closest Unislo was by the station, about a ten-minute walk. I thought she would immediately start asking me questions about Reita, but she started texting someone over RINE. And so, we walked together in silence.

Miori treated me the same way she always had, but I just couldn’t discern how close we actually were. “Brat Commander” Miori, who used to drag other kids around, had now become a proper girl. I just couldn’t get used to it.

That was to say nothing of the huge void caused by the three years of middle school where we’d never even talked. In the past, I hadn’t been bothered by silence between the two of us, but now it felt awkward.

“We can’t instantly go back to how things used to be,” Miori murmured. It was as if she had seen right through me.

My astonishment must’ve clearly shown on my face.

“Bull’s-eye? You’ve always been easy to read,” Miori said, staring straight at me.

“It’s because I loosen up when I’m with you,” I grumbled. When I was with Miori, I often retreated into the recesses of my thoughts without paying attention. I was more careful not to make a mistake by getting lost in thought when I was with Tatsuya and co. Being silent wasn’t a good vibe, after all. However, Miori had known me for a long time now so I felt little need to put up any pretenses around her.

“So? How’s your high school debut going?” she asked.

“Don’t just summarize my tear-inducing efforts as a high school debut,” I replied. Okay, fine, there isn’t a better term for it.

“I never imagined that you, Natsuki, of all people would end up in such a dazzling group.”

“I know I don’t belong,” I said with a pout.

Miori laughed and shook her head. “That’s not true. Right now, you’re quite the dazzler, yourself.”

“Uh... Huh...” I struggled to find the right words. Stop praising me out of nowhere! It always makes me feel kinda shook.

“Ugh. That reaction is gross. You’re definitely not going to dazzle anyone right now.”

“Shut up! I’m not used to being complimented.” I looked away.

Miori giggled while covering her mouth. Even her gestures had become more feminine. It seemed like three years was plenty of time for a person to change.

“Well, it’s fun to see you out there shining under the spotlight.”

“This is why I didn’t want to go to the same high school as someone from my middle school,” I grumbled again.

“You sure? Doesn’t it suck if there’s no one around who knows what you’re really like?” Miori asked quietly as she looked up at the setting sun.

I remained silent. I’d never thought about that before. But I knew there was some truth in her words.

“I’m the only one around who you can rely on without putting up a front, right?”

I was annoyed by how confident she sounded, but I had no rebuttal. After all, I was asking her for fashion advice right now. It’s true. I guess Miori really is the only one I can ask for help.

“I think I’m the perfect conspirator from your point of view too.” Miori twirled around and stood in front of me.

“Conspirator?”

“I told you before. I want to get to know Reita-kun and get closer to him. So help me out. It’ll be easier for me if you lend me a hand since you’re in the same friend group.” Miori stuck her hand out in front of me. If I took her hand, our partnership would be formally established.

“Are you saying that, in exchange, you’ll help me out if I need it?”

“Of course. I’ll help your little high school debut plan succeed and turn you into the center of attention!”

“I don’t particularly want to become the center of attention.”

I just wanted to live a satisfying youth. To be more specific, I wanted to overwrite my drab old high school memories with ones full of rainbows. That’s why I was starting over like this. I wanted to be a cheerful person so I could be friends with Tatsuya, date Hoshimiya, and have fun every day with the friends I made, just like I was doing now.

I’d tried to explain the gist of that to Miori without mentioning my chance at a redo. “Get it? My high school debut is just a means to an end; it’s not the real goal.”

“I see; I see.” She thought for a moment and then said, “I get it! You want a girlfriend, right?”

“Were you listening to me at all?”

“Don’t most people go through a high school debut to get a date? Yeah, I get you. I also want to date a hottie...” She trailed off and then repeated herself. “I really want a hot boyfriend. And I mean really.”

“I don’t need to hear any graphic descriptions of your thirsting,” I said. You’re ruining my sacred image of high school girls.

“Anyway, if you help me out, I’ll help you get a girlfriend too. You like one of those three girls, yeah? They’re all cute.”

I had trouble coming up with a reply since she was right about that. “B-Back to the topic at hand! Didn’t you have questions about Reita?”

Displeased by my obvious subject change, Miori muttered, “Running away, huh?” She switched gears, though, and said, “Yeah. I’m guessing you’re accepting my proposal since you’re asking that. Okay?”

I gave it one last thought and then agreed. “Well, it’s not a bad deal for me. So all right.” At the same time, I was thinking, To be honest, I’m grateful that I can ask Miori for help. It would go to her head if I told her, though, so I’m definitely keeping that to myself!

“Perfect! Then first, tell me what Reita-kun likes and...” Miori’s excitement shot through the roof.

We became so engrossed in our discussion that we barely registered when we’d arrived at Unislo. She thoroughly picked my brain about every little thing I knew about Reita.

“Well, I had a feeling, but is this seriously all you know?” Miori let out a loud sigh.

“Well, yeah! It’s barely been a week since school started. Of course I only know surface-level stuff.”

“Hm. Okay, I guess I’ll have to hope for the best in the future.”

“Do you like Reita that much?”

“Hm? I’m interested, but I wouldn’t say I like like him. I’m always keeping an eye out for resident hotties. Hot guys are the best! You can never get tired of their faces. Know what I mean?” Miori said with a creepy smile. The laugh that came after was a bit scary too.

High school girls these days are like wolves. It’s terrifying!

***

After much ado, Miori and I finally ended up at Unislo to pick out innocuous clothes for me. Why Unislo? Well, not only did I need clothes on the double, I also didn’t have money for expensive stuff. Honestly, all clothes are expensive for a high schooler!

“Maybe I should get a job,” I muttered while staring at a shirt with a few-thousand-yen price tag.

“Are you that broke?”

“I have money. All of it will evaporate into thin air after buying clothes, though.”

“True that!”

I received an allowance every month but it definitely wasn’t enough. I’m not in a club, meaning I have time to spare when everyone else is at their clubs. A job makes sense.

“All right, what to do with you?” Miori scrutinized my appearance carefully while tapping her chin. “Hmm, your figure is good. I think keeping it simple actually suits you well. You were always on the tall side, but I never expected you’d lose weight and build up muscle.” She touched my sides without warning, causing me to jump up in surprise.

“Hey! What’re you—”

“What? Come on, you’re a guy and you don’t like being touched?” Miori giggled. It didn’t matter how long I’d known a girl; there was no way physical contact with one wouldn’t shake me to my core. I’ve lived the introvert life for longer than my current age!

“Okay, let’s see. Try this one, this one...and this! Come on, try them on!” Miori grabbed a few options and then pushed me towards the fitting room. She looked like she was having fun. Miori is a girl, after all. I guess it makes sense that she likes picking out clothes.

“It’s fun having someone be your dress-up doll!” she said happily.

“Use me as a dress-up doll all you want; just make sure to pick clothes properly!”

“Just leave it to me. I’ve got a good model so I’m sure it’ll be fine no matter what,” Miori said then started humming. I was a bit dubious but I had no other option but to rely on her.

***

“Thank you for your patronage. Please come again!” the clerk said as we left the store. The sun had set completely by the time we finished.

Both of my hands were weighed down with heavy bags. I had bought clothes not just for tomorrow, but also for future outings. In total I’d spent over ten thousand yen. My poor wallet! These expenses hurt for a high schooler, but they’re a necessary cost.

“We bought a lot,” I moaned aloud.

“Heh heh. Wasn’t it kinda fun?” Miori asked.

It was as she said; I had enjoyed trying on different clothes. I used to think that clothes didn’t matter, but seeing my improved appearance when I dressed well felt pretty nice. Losing weight had been worth it.

“So, you’re wearing this tomorrow?” she continued.

“That’s the plan.”

“Good luck. It’s just Unislo in the end so it’s not particularly fashionable, but I think it looks good. The rest is up to your posture and expression. Don’t slouch. Stand up straight!” she directed, slapping me on the back.

I do slouch a lot, maybe because I’m so tall. I’d better be careful.

“If the opportunity arises and we have more time, I’ll help you pick out something more stylish. It’ll be more expensive, though. We could even go to Shibuya or some other city!”

“I don’t have the money for that.” I sighed and stared up at the night sky. “Maybe I really should get a job.”

Though it was already mid-spring, the night air was still cool.

“A convenience store, a café, a family restaurant, a karaoke place...” I started listing some options aloud as we walked home. “Maybe even a bookstore.”

“How about a clothing store?”

“No way. I’ve got zero fashion sense, and I get nervous talking to strangers.”

“Fashion sense aside, you still get nervous talking to strangers, huh? I guess it’s hard to change someone’s true nature.”

“I wouldn’t be struggling this much if it were easy,” I replied. I continued to think about options for a part-time job. I worked at a café and a family restaurant during college. But maybe it’ll be more interesting if I try something new instead of staying in my comfort zone... Hmm. What to do? I feel like there’s something worth experiencing from a high school part-time job. I’d better choose carefully.

These thoughts floated through my head even as Miori and I parted ways.

***

It was 1 p.m. the next day. I’d been so nervous that I arrived thirty minutes early. There was still time to spare while I waited for everyone else. The others all arrived a reasonable ten or fewer minutes earlier. Last to arrive was Tatsuya, who got there two minutes before the decided meeting time.

“Oh man, I thought I was gonna be late so I rushed over,” Tatsuya said as he bought water from a nearby vending machine. He wore a plain gray shirt and ripped slim-fit jeans. He also had a silver necklace on.

His clothes might’ve looked tasteless on some, but they matched Tatsuya’s wild face and hair well. I thought he looked like an unruly college student, though.

“Why are you running late in the afternoon?” Nanase asked, brows furrowed in puzzlement. She was wearing a chiffon blouse tucked into wide-leg pants, and she had a small white beret on her head. I was surprised by how cute her clothes were.

Is this what they call spring fashion?

“Tatsu’s always been late to things even when he doesn’t oversleep!” Uta laughed. She wore a dark checkered shirt dress that exposed her shoulders. It looked like something that’d give off a vintage feel, but the dark color which felt like the opposite of her personality and the bare shoulders gave off mature, even somewhat amorous vibes. The short, usually childish Uta now looked strangely adultlike. But it suited her well.

“I get that, though,” Hoshimiya chimed in with an understanding smile. “Sometimes I get too relaxed when I’m waiting and lose track of time.” She wore a white blouse and slim-fit pants in a simple and androgynous style. It created the illusion that she had long legs even though she was average height for a girl.

“You say that, but I bet you’re the type of person who’s never late, Hoshimiya-san,” Reita said. He had on black skinny jeans and a plain, light-beige button-down over a darker beige T-shirt with a white tall T-shirt layered underneath. I feel like he looks more cool than calm and gentle right now.

“I showed up early and almost got bored of waiting.” I decided this was a good point to join the conversation after examining everyone’s outfits. They were all as stylish as I’d expected—looking several times more charming than usual, so much so that I’d become entranced if I wasn’t careful.

Especially the girls! The gap between their looks now and how they normally look at school is just too much.

I didn’t know if the three girls were aware of my thoughts, but they were currently chatting to each other about their outfits. Contrary to what you might have expected, apparently Hoshimiya liked cool fashion, Uta liked mature looks, and Nanase liked cute clothes. They sorta looked more sparkly than usual, maybe because they were wearing makeup this weekend.

“They do know that we’re going to a Spor-Cha, right?” Reita asked with a shrug. We started talking amongst ourselves since the girls were off in their own world.

“I know, right! Those clothes don’t look easy to move around in. They look good though,” Tatsuya said approvingly.

“Well, we’re not doing intense exercise so isn’t it fine?” I pointed out to the two boys who were smiling wryly. I said that, but I’d never been to a Spor-Cha before, so I only knew what I’d read on the web. I was just faking it.

“That’s true. C’mon, let’s get going,” Tatsuya said and started walking off. Everyone followed while making idle conversation.

This is fresh. I’ve never hung out with my friends on the weekend before. I kinda feel warm and fuzzy inside.

“Um, Natsuki-kun, where did you buy your clothes?” Hoshimiya popped up next to me and peered up at my face.

“Hm? I bought this from Unislo.” I looked down at my clothes, worried. “Do I look bad?”

She giggled and then reassured me, “Jeez, Natsuki-kun, you’re too negative. I wanted to compliment you.”

I felt relieved as soon as those words left her mouth. Miori really does have good taste. I was wearing an oversized shirt and black wide-leg slacks. My outfit was loose and easy to put on, plus it highlighted my figure. I really owe Miori one for picking this out for me!

Complimenting Hoshimiya’s clothes seemed like the logical flow of conversation since she’d complimented mine, so I did. “Oh, well, Hoshimiya...your clothes look nice too. You look cool.” I ended up tripping over the words a bit, but at least my voice didn’t shake.

“Cool? Not cute?” Hoshimiya asked. She sounded a bit peeved.

She’d rather be cute? But that was my honest evaluation! I panicked a bit internally.

“Ah ha ha, just kidding! I like androgynous fashion myself. I’ll buy men’s clothing too if it catches my fancy. I’m happy you think I look cool!” Hoshimiya smiled shyly. Her abashed expression was the perfect embodiment of cuteness itself.

Right as my conversation with Hoshimiya was winding down, Tatsuya said, “Hey, it should be around here.”

“Where is it? I’ve never been here before,” Nanase said, looking around.

Same here. First time for me too! I felt a sort of fellowship with her.

Uta pointed to a tall building near us. “It’s right over there! You can see it already. The three of us went a bunch in middle school.”

“Right? It’s close to Ojima Middle. I remember that one time we fought over whether we should do karaoke, play at the Spor-Cha, or go bowling, for some reason. Reita was strangely set on bowling that day,” Tatsuya recalled.

“I was just in the mood for bowling,” Reita explained.

“Rei gets really stubborn at random times. Don’t ever disobey him when he’s like that!” Uta told us.

Hoshimiya naturally spoke up during their reminiscing without fear. “Wow. Will we ever get to see you like that?”

“Hoshimiya-san, I think you’d concede before we could even argue. These two are the weird ones,” Reita said.

“Eh? Okay then, I’ll be extra stubborn,” she said. The two of them shared a laugh, making them seem extra close.

I don’t care when Uta or Nanase talk to guys, but it bothers me when Hoshimiya does! That’s definitely jealousy. I felt disgruntled by how small-minded I was being.

“Hey, let’s go in already,” Tatsuya called back to the rest of us. We’d been walking slowly, immersed in conversation.

The way he moved ahead at his own pace without a care for others really screamed pushy jock. Well, I’m confident that I can move quickly while alone too. I’ve always been alone, after all. The only difference between me and Tatsuya is whether people will follow behind us or not. Ha ha ha... Okay, stop there. I’m getting ahead of myself.

“Oh, we’re here already?” I said.

“Natsuki, is this your first time at OneRound?” Reita asked.

For a moment I hesitated on how to answer but I nodded honestly. “Yeah. There were talks about going eventually, but it’s expensive for a middle schooler.” I feel like it’s best not to pretend during times like this. Besides, there’s no way it’s weird for a high school first-year to have never been to OneRound before. I decided not to lie since the risk of getting caught was too high.

“That’s true. We only went three or four times,” Reita said, laughing casually.

It was only a three-minute walk from the station to OneRound. However, walking with this lineup of people really drew the gazes of random pedestrians. Made sense; everyone was so attractive. I’m sure there were people who thought, “Oh, look, there’s a normal-looking guy mixed in.” Hey, I worked hard, all right?!

While I, the lone introvert, was having a moment, the extroverts went inside. I’m amazed at how they don’t hesitate at all when entering huge buildings like this. They really have no fear! Tatsuya’s face even looks like he’s thinking, “I’m the main character here,” or something.

“Hey, how long should we stay? Two hours?” Tatsuya asked.

“What? That’s too short. Six hours should be enough!” Uta proposed.

“U-Um, I think that’s a bit much. I don’t think I can move around for that long,” Hoshimiya said.

“We wouldn’t be done until seven. That’s cutting it too close to Hikari’s curfew,” Nanase vetoed.

“It’d be nice to eat dinner together since we’re all out. How about three hours?” Reita suggested, taking everyone’s opinions into account. No one objected so he went to deal with the clerk.

Give me those skills! I silently begged. Reita is so perfect. So superhuman! He doesn’t have a single flaw.

“Okay, let’s go in,” Reita said after he finished talking with the clerk. He and Tatsuya led the way while the rest of us followed behind.

“Whoo! It’s been so long!” Uta said. “What should we do first? What do you wanna do, huh?” She jumped up and down in excitement. I was also secretly pumped since it was my first time here.

The inside was huge. There were facilities for all kinds of sports, and many people were enjoying themselves. Wow, so this is what it’s like. I’ve always wanted to come here, but showing up alone would be pointless.

“Why don’t we start with something that’s currently available? How about ping-pong?” Reita pointed to the area where ping-pong tables were lined up. There were two tables not in use.

“Ping-pong! Sounds good! Let’s play! Let’s do it!” Uta exclaimed.

“Oh! I’m so-so at ping-pong. Compared to how terrible I am at other sports, anyway.” Hoshimiya let out a smug laugh and crossed her arms.

Her display made Tatsuya laugh loudly. “Really? Okay then, Hoshimiya, I’ll give you a taste of my smash!”

Her smug face faltered. “Uh, I’d rather not play against Tatsuya-kun. I’m too scared.” Hoshimiya made a show of backing away from the intimidating Tatsuya and hid behind Uta.

“If you want to lay your hands on Hikarin then you’ll have to defeat me first!” Uta proclaimed.

“Why am I being treated like an evil villain?” Tatsuya asked glumly. However, he went along with Uta’s sprightliness and played against her.

This is my chance, I thought and invited Hoshimiya to play. “Hey, Hoshimiya, let’s take it easy at the table next to them.”

“Okay! Be gentle, please.” She smiled. Just being able to see her smile like that made today worth it!

Reita and Nanase sat down in some chairs for those who were waiting their turn. They would swap with whichever pair finished first, or take a third table if one opened up.

Hoshimiya raised her racket. Nanase cheered from her chair, “Hikari, good luck!”

“Then I’ll root for Natsuki. Why don’t we play a tournament since we’re doing this?” Reita suggested.

“Good idea! That sounds fun!” Uta shouted from the other table as she rallied with Tatsuya. That is one high-level match, I observed. They’re no amateurs with the way they swing their rackets and how long their rallies are. Are all peppy people good at sports? They’re good at everything. I’m jealous; I just slink around in the back during PE! Not like anyone ever passes to me, anyway.

Wait a second. That’s not really an issue of athletics, I retorted to myself, like a one-man comedy show. That aside, I’m not bad at sports. Sure, I’m not good at them either, but my ping-pong skills are definitely on the better side.

“Whoa, you two are incredible,” Hoshimiya said. I let out a dry laugh when I noticed her dumbfounded face.

“Let’s keep it chill even though it’s technically a match,” I said.

“Yeah!”

I softly hit the ping-pong ball to her. The ball landed in bounds with room to spare. I thought Hoshimiya would easily return it, but...

“Huh?!” she exclaimed.

Hoshimiya swung her racket at empty air.

Uh, is it just me, or was there a lot of space between the racket and the ball just now?

“S-Sorry! I’m a bit rusty.” Hoshimiya chased after the ball, beet red.

W-Well, I’m sure it’s been a while since she last played. Sometimes those instincts don’t come back from the get-go.

After missing three more times, Hoshimiya was finally able to return the ball. But only if I gently hit it right in the middle of her side, where it was easy to return. If the ball landed even slightly to the sides, she would miss, or she’d manage to graze the ball with the racket and send it flying in the wrong direction. “I see. Hm. I see?” she would say.

“A-Ah ha ha... I’m really off my game today. Just a bit?” Hoshimiya laughed as if to cover something up while she fanned her scarlet cheeks with the racket.

Nanase, who was giggling in her chair, called out to me, “Don’t you think it’s time you gave her a taste of reality?”

“Hoshimiya,” I began, “I can’t believe you said you were so-so at ping-pong compared to other sports.”

“D-Don’t say that! I really am better at ping-pong than other sports! I know it’s not impressive!” Hoshimiya retorted, still embarrassed. It was cute seeing her like that, but I was so surprised by how bad she was. If this is so-so, what’s she like at other sports?

“As you can see, Hikari’s only flaw is how catastrophically bad at physical activities she is,” Nanase teased.

“Huh? But wasn’t Hoshimiya-san the one who suggested we go to a Spor-Cha?” Reita asked with a grin. He playfully tilted his head a little to the side.

“I suck at them, but I like sports! Is there a problem?!” Hoshimiya indignantly asked. Her face was still flushed, and she waved her arms like a child throwing a tantrum. Seeing her like this was a new experience but she was still adorable. Well, Hoshimiya is cute no matter what she does. But at this rate, I’m going to think, “Hoshimiya is cute!” all day long.

I continued my match—err—I continued coddling Hoshimiya at ping-pong. She really did look like she was having a blast, though. I guess it’s true that she likes it even though she’s bad.

In the end, no matter how easy I went on Hoshimiya, I still won the match. The game at the table next to us was very intense, with Tatsuya finally coming out on top. Uta stamped her feet in frustration at the loss. Tatsuya fanned the flames by flaunting his victory in her face.

Reita and Nanase had a close match since they both had good reflexes. In the end, the result was determined by a difference in experience. Reita had come here multiple times with Tatsuya and Uta, whereas Nanase had only really played in gym class.

Of course, it was the same for me, so I lost to Reita in the second round. My footwork wasn’t terrible thanks to my daily exercise, but the skill gap was my downfall.

“All right, Reita! Finally, after all these years, it’s time to settle our score!” Tatsuya hammed it up.

“Tatsuya, have you ever even beaten me?” Reita replied coolly.

“Shut up! What’s important is that I’m going to win right now!” Tatsuya yelled, resolved this time.

The match kicked off after their little banter.

“For real?! That’s out?!”

Reita came out victorious over Tatsuya, who’d been seeded first in the bracket. It was a nail-biting match.

“Man! That was awesome,” I said.

“I’m actually better than them, though. It’s true!” Uta insisted. She was still salty over her loss.

“Yes, yes. Uta, you can play on the same level as those two, right? Yep, yep,” I said to soothe her anger.

“Obviously!”

I reflected on their fierce match while I continued to placate Uta. Tatsuya’s smash was crazy strong but Reita still returned it. I think Tatsuya would’ve won if he could aim his smashes more accurately, but at that point he might as well join the ping-pong club.

“I’m tired,” Tatsuya panted as he sprawled out on the ground. “Let’s go! Next!”

“Dude, aren’t you going to take a break?” I retorted.

“You fool! We’re on a timer; you think we can afford to rest?!” Tatsuya roared.

“L-Looks like you’re still overflowing with energy.”

Ah, crap, he yelled so loud that I replied like a frightened animal! I know Tatsuya isn’t mad or anything, but I can’t help but reel back in fear when someone gets loud or uses aggressive language. I’m an introvert! Okay, that’s true and all, but in the end, I guess I’m still letting my past memories weigh me down. I wish I’d get over them already!

“I’ll blow away my frustrations with a bat! To the batting cages!” Tatsuya yelled and ran off on his own.

“I’m good on ping-pong for now, so shall we follow Tatsuya? I’m fine leaving him alone too, though,” Reita said.

“That’s terrible! Is that how you treat your friends?” I asked.

“You know, when you’re really close friends, you can leave each other alone.”

“I can’t tell if that statement’s deep or superficial.”

“I agree,” said Nanase. “It means they’re close enough to be real with each other.”

Reita’s words stuck in my mind. Close enough to be real, huh? I don’t have anyone like that outside of my family. Even now, the others still watch their tongues around me. Reita only makes cutting remarks about Tatsuya and Uta too. Of course he would. It’s only been a week since school started. I hope we become close enough for that one day, though.

I wanted to get closer to them—all five of them. And I wanted to get even closer to Hoshimiya. I was sure the rainbow-colored youth I’d dreamed of was waiting for me in the future.

***

After ping-pong, we moved on to other activities such as batting practice, badminton, tennis, futsal, darts, and billiards, before taking a break at the rest area. The sporty trio was still full of vigor, but Hoshimiya and Nanase were already spent. I was still good to go thanks to my daily exercise. The training I’d done over spring break had been way more strenuous. To be fair, if you check the clock, it’s been two whole hours and we’ve been moving around a lot. Good job, everyone!

“Someone...get me a sports drink...” Hoshimiya wheezed, slumped over a table.

I got up in answer to her pleas. “Anyone else? I’ll bring back as much as I can carry.”

“Oh, I’ll go with you too. All right, everyone, pay up.” Reita stood as well and collected the funds. Then the two of us headed off to the vending machines to procure sports drinks, tea, and water for the others. I feel like Reita and I have been partnering up for stuff like this a lot lately. Well, I guess we are in the same friend group.

“You know, Natsuki, you’re pretty incredible,” Reita said, impressed, as we walked.

“Uh, what do you mean?”

“You can keep up with the three of us even though you’re not in a sports club.”

“Oh, well, you guys aren’t in serious mode.” It’s all just fun and games in the end, I thought. I doubt this is enough to tire them out.

Also, Hoshimiya has poor reflexes, so I bet she wasted a lot of energy, and Nanase just doesn’t have much stamina in the first place. That’s probably why they’re exhausted. Okay, let’s be real; I could go for another five hours and still have energy to spare. I’m having a blast!

Thanks to my exercise regimen, I was light on my feet and my body moved the way I wanted. It wasn’t like my reflexes had improved or anything, but now I could keep up with the sporty trio.

“Well, everyone was going hard during badminton and you still won,” Reita said.

“Uta was my partner; it’s all thanks to her.” We’d changed up the format from a singles bracket to a doubles round-robin for badminton. The pairs were me and Uta, Nanase and Tatsuya, and Reita and Hoshimiya. Uta and I had won both of our games. “And besides, Hoshimiya was probably holding you back.”

“That’s not true...” Reita said but then added with a dry laugh, “...is what I wish I could say.” Beating around the bush was unusual for him.

“No, really, it’s crazy how long you held on with Hoshimiya as your teammate. I thought we were gonna lose!”

Reita really can do anything. Whereas Tatsuya’s the type to power his way through any obstacle, Reita has a discerning eye. It’s like he can figure out the best method for any situation and gradually adapt.

“I wasn’t sure about Tatsuya’s team, but I thought I’d be able to beat you two. I have a good grasp of Uta’s skill, but it looks like I underestimated you. I didn’t expect you to be so nimble, what with your height.” Reita poked my stomach as he said that.

Hearing praise from someone I looked up to as a sports genius really made me feel like my hard work had been worth it. I must’ve looked unsightly back when my stomach was all flabby.

Hoshimiya’s a girl so her lack of athleticism makes her all the more cute, but if a guy who’s trying to act cool like me—though I’m clearly too unsociable and reserved—turns out to be terrible at sports, it just looks pathetic. I’d be teased about it forever! If that happened, my standing in the group would weaken. And even worse, if I handled the situation poorly, I very well might get kicked out.

“Hey, is something wrong? Earth to Natsuki,” Reita called out.

“Oh, sorry, it’s nothing,” I replied. I know they aren’t the types to boot someone out of friendship status, but I was despised so much that I got kicked out last time. I know it was my fault and I deserved it, but it’s traumatizing for me.

“Hey, Natsuki,” Reita started in an awfully serious tone as we were buying everyone’s drinks from the vending machine. When I glanced over at him, his gaze was fixed straight at me.

“Hm? What’s up?” I asked, deliberately keeping my tone lighthearted. I had a feeling the topic wasn’t going to be fun, but I had no idea what he wanted to discuss. I don’t think I’ve misplayed today, I thought. Every move I’d made so far had been carefully calculated.

That’s why Reita’s question came out of left field.

“Do you dislike Tatsuya?”

I was speechless, and my silence was all the confirmation Reita needed.

“Thought so,” he said with a faint smile. It sounded like he already knew and was just confirming his suspicions.

“Why do you think that?” I finally asked in return.

“It’s nothing much. I just had a feeling you were avoiding him. The two of us have been teaming up quite often, but you don’t go anywhere alone with him, right?”

“Now that you mention it, yeah, that’s true. I’m surprised you noticed.”

Reita laughed. “I’ve made it a habit to observe my surroundings... Though, sometimes I see too much. At first, I figured you just hadn’t gotten used to each other so I let it be, but today I felt like it went deeper than that.”

“Deeper than that? What do you think it is, then?”

“It looked like you were scared of Tatsuya. I hope it’s just my imagination, though.” He hit the nail on the head.

I wasn’t sure how to respond. He was convinced enough that he asked me directly, I thought, so I doubt I can just play it off. Shiratori Reita really pays close attention to others—and he has the confidence to ask questions head-on.

“You’re right; it’s just as you say,” I admitted honestly. I had no other choice. “But it’s not what you’re thinking. It’s a personal problem, not Tatsuya’s fault. He hasn’t done anything wrong at all. So please don’t say anything to him. It’ll fix itself in time...I think.”

It was the truth. My aversion was because of the deep emotional trauma remaining in my heart. I can’t tell you this is my second chance at high school, so please just let me off with this and don’t press any further.

“Okay. I’ll go with that, then.” Reita nodded as he opened his sports drink.

“You will?”

“I’ve got no right to step in. It’s a problem between the two of you. No, it’s not even a problem since that blockhead Tatsuya hasn’t noticed. I was just curious.” Reita took a gulp of his drink and said plainly, “It’s just...we’re friends, right?” He smiled and poked me in the chest with the bottle.

The way Reita could casually touch me and say something so embarrassing truly made him the pinnacle of all extroverts and popular kids in the world. And he looked cool doing it! Surely it was because he did it with confidence.

“I wanted to know what’s got you so worried. But if you say you’ll handle it, then I won’t pry and I’ll believe in you.” His words hit me hard. He’d guessed that I couldn’t tell him what the core problem was.

I get why Reita is popular with girls. This guy’s too radiant for me right now!

***

After we finished buying all the drinks, we returned to the others, who gave us a warm welcome back. Reita is talking to everyone normally as if nothing happened. I’d better live up to his trust and work hard. I’ll overcome my trauma and become good friends with Tatsuya!

“Whew, I’m alive again!” Uta exclaimed after a swig.

“It’s been a while since I’ve done any physical activity. It’s exhausting,” Nanase groaned.

“Ah ha ha! Yui-Yui, I bet you’re gonna moan about muscle pain tomorrow!” Uta teased. When in the world did Uta give Nanase a weird nickname too? I wondered.

“Can you just call me Yui?” Nanase barely managed to voice her objection through her exhaustion. At school she looks so composed and keeps her posture perfectly straight, so this is a refreshing sight.

“Wow, this is a rare sight to see from you, Nanase,” I said.

Hoshimiya grinned widely and added, “Yuino-chan just acts cool at school. This is proof that she’s relaxed around us!”

“Oh? That makes me feel nice if it’s true,” I said, trying to use a light, teasing tone.

Nanase looked away from us shyly. “I’m not trying to act cool or anything in the first place...”

Argh, too cute! Oops, my single-hearted dedication to Hoshimiya wavered for a moment there.

Unlike the others who were cheerful popular kids, Nanase had a different vibe to her. She was like a cool beauty who wasn’t the type to get hyped up about things. So there was a destructive force behind the fact that she secretly thought of us as good friends.

“All right, we should get moving soon.” Tatsuya eagerly stood up once everyone had finished rehydrating.

“Whaaat? Let’s rest for a bit longer,” Hoshimiya complained.

“Honestly, I’d be okay if we left...” Nanase agreed.

Reita glanced at the clock and said, “We’ll run out of time if we rest any longer. Why don’t the two of you relax while we play?”

Tatsuya pointed into the distance, oblivious to their discussion. “It’s now or never! The basketball court is finally open!”

“Oooh! At last!” Uta stood up as well, eyes twinkling with excitement. The two of them ran off together without a care.

We had been tackling different games all day, but we hadn’t yet managed to catch the basketball court while it was available. Whenever we finished one game, another group was always using it. I guess Tatsuya was keeping an eye on the court during our break.

“Didn’t they play basketball at their club practice yesterday?” I cocked my head, baffled.

Hoshimiya giggled. “They really love basketball.”

“Practice and playing for fun are different, after all. I feel them,” Reita said and then stood up to join in.

“Okay, then we’ll watch from close by,” Nanase said.

“Sounds good.” I looked over at her. “Man, Nanase, you look like you’re about to keel over!”

“I got a little too worked up,” she panted.

“Did you get too excited because you’re hanging out with friends?” Hoshimiya teased.

“Hikari, be quiet!” Nanase snapped back.

Hoshimiya and Nanase’s cheeky banter made Reita and me grin as we followed after Tatsuya and Uta. The two of them had already started practicing shooting hoops from wherever they pleased.

“Here, Natsuki!” Reita passed me a ball.

I was sent down memory lane as soon as I caught it. I had enjoyed basketball; that was part of the reason why I’d stayed in the club for three whole years. In college, I even diligently practiced shooting hoops alone. Well, okay, maybe it was because I had a lot of free time!

I dribbled the ball rhythmically. Today was the first day I’d touched a basketball since the time leap, but I wouldn’t lose my feel for dribbling in just a few months without practice. The ball fit snugly in my hands.

Shooting, however, was a different story. Unlike dribbling, shooting required a delicate touch that was easily lost if you didn’t practice for two or three days. Even though I had seven years’ worth of experience, I’d already lost confidence in my ability to make shots.

I have no confidence. None at all! But I’ve still got the intuition of a basketballer. As soon as I dribbled up to the three-point line and focused on the hoop, I realized, Oh, I’m feeling on point today!

“Huh? He’s amazing!” I heard Hoshimiya yell in surprise.

I’d taken a shot right before the three-point line, and it swished in cleanly, without touching the hoop, leaving the net gently swaying. I wasn’t surprised or anything; I could tell I was in good condition. I’d known the ball would go in from the moment it left my fingers.

The basketball bounced right back into my hands. “The ball is light,” I muttered. “No, is it my body that’s light?”

The ball felt extraordinarily light, perhaps as another benefit of my daily exercise. That must’ve been why I could handle it so easily. Three-pointers were difficult shots to make because of the basketball’s heft. I normally needed to bend my knees and use my whole body’s strength to shoot the ball. However, today I’d made it in with just a light jump and flick of my wrist.

Wow, being physically fit really is awesome! I took another shot. The ball left my fingers once more with a gentle, relaxed motion.

I was certain it would go in.

Right after I thought that, the ball went through the hoop with another clean swish. “Hm.” I would’ve worked out in college if I’d known it was going to make this big a difference! I get why top players are always working out now. A strong body makes a solid foundation for techniques. I’m really feeling that right now.

“Whoooa?! Natsu! You’re super awesome!” Uta yelled.

I snapped out of my thoughts to find that everyone else was worked up. Uta’s eyes were twinkling and she was moving in closer to me. Everyone seemed blown away.

“W-Wow, Natsuki. Is basketball your hobby?” Even Reita looked astonished.

Of course they’re surprised, I thought. A basketball newbie who’s never been in a club just made two three-pointers in a row. “Yeah, something like that. Oh, did I never mention it?” I tried to play it cool.

“You didn’t! Wowww, that was great! Why aren’t you in the basketball club?!” Uta was piling on the praise and getting a little too close for comfort. I could smell a sweet fragrance coming from her and it made my heart thump. I was forced to admit that even though Uta was childlike, she really was a girl.

“Oh, well, I’ve never been in a club before...”

“And you’re this good?! You’re a genius!” she said.

I need to squash that weird notion, pronto! I can’t tell them about my redo, but I’m obviously not a beginner. Miori will know I’m lying if I say I was in the basketball club in middle school. Also, Tatsuya has probably played against my school multiple times, so he definitely knows I wasn’t part of Mizumi’s team.

I pulled myself together and came up with an excuse. “There’s a park with a basketball hoop near my home. I messed around there a lot.”

Technically it wasn’t a lie. I really had practiced there a lot the first time around. I didn’t want to lie to them, so I’d selected my words carefully.

“You’ve gotta join the basketball club! Right, Tatsu?!” Uta exclaimed with even more energy. She cocked her head to the side when he didn’t respond. “Tatsu?”

I followed her gaze and saw that Tatsuya was looking at me with narrowed eyes.

“Uh, T-Tatsuya? What’s up?” I asked.

Tatsuya breathed in sharply and covered up his glare with a wide grin. “Ah, nothing. I was so surprised I just froze up. You’re a real beast, man.”

O-Oh. He’s just surprised. I was worried for a moment there. That scared me!

“Admittedly, it’s even more fun since it’s been a while.” I dribbled the ball closer to the hoop and did a layup. My leg strength had increased so I jumped higher than I expected and it was easier to get in. Yeah, this feels great!

“Right?! So join the basketball club! Now!” Uta encouraged me, albeit aggressively.

“H-Hmm... The basketball club, huh? But I’ve got no experience, you know?”

“You’ll be fine! And you’ve only missed a week of practice, so you’ll get used to it lickety-split!”

Uta would take one step forward, causing me to take one step back. As we played at this little back-and-forth, thoughts raced through my head. How do I decline? The basketball club, ugh, I just know it’ll be a bed of nails! I can behave better now, but I’ll probably be a benchwarmer and never appear in a match, just like last time...

“Oh, right, I’m going to get a part-time job, so I think it’ll be kinda hard for me,” I said, remembering.

“What? Really? What a waste of talent. Right, Tatsu?” Uta turned to Tatsuya for support.

Tatsuya was casually spinning a ball on his finger as he said, “Well, we won’t know unless we see him play for real. He’s definitely good for an amateur but I dunno if that’s enough to pass in our club. Oh, I got it. Why don’t I test you out?” Tatsuya tossed his ball to Uta and beckoned me over.

“Let’s play one-on-one. First to three wins!” Tatsuya challenged me, smiling brazenly. His grin oozed self-confidence in a way that suited him well. And it was backed up by his skills. Tatsuya was Ryomei’s ace.

However, that wouldn’t be until his third year. Maybe I can beat Tatsuya now, when he’s still just a first-year who’s barely started practicing with high schoolers. Though I was only a sub for all three years of high school, I do have that experience under my belt, and I regularly practiced shooting for all four years of college! Tatsuya’s only been playing since middle school; I’ve got tons more experience on him now.

“Sounds like fun. Let’s do it,” I accepted. Though I tried to sound humorous, I was shaking in my boots. I was scared of facing Tatsuya one-on-one.

Come on! Didn’t I resolve to live up to Reita’s expectations? It’s time to get over my past trauma. This is just outright rude to Tatsuya! He hasn’t done anything wrong. If I want to overcome this, I need to stand my ground here and beat him.

I dribbled the ball up and down, calm and relaxed, as if I could charge in at any moment.

“Get him, Natsu!” Uta cheered. “Give Tatsu a good whooping!”

“Natsuki-kun, you can do it!” Hoshimiya cheered as well. Everyone was watching our match.

“Hey! Is no one gonna cheer for me?!” Tatsuya barked.

“Think of it as a handicap since you’re on the basketball team,” I said with a grin.

“I guess that’s how it’s gotta be,” Tatsuya sighed, scratching his head.

When I glanced to the side where the chairs were, my eyes met Hoshimiya’s. She was smiling with her fist raised up to her chest, a little gesture that must’ve been to cheer for me. I gotta show her my good side here.

“You ready?”

“Come at me,” Tatsuya replied.

Four years had passed since I’d played with someone else, but I instinctually remembered the sensation. And even better, my body was much stronger than before. It moved exactly—no, it moved even faster than I wanted.

I instantly switched from a standing dribble and crossed Tatsuya up. I nimbly broke past his right and scored an easy layup.

“What the hell... Seriously, dude?”

You didn’t need any other fancy techniques if your footwork was superior. A simple drive forward was plenty—it was your greatest weapon. Tatsuya had taught me that in the past.

He was most likely wary of three-pointers. That made sense, since I’d scored two in a row just now. Because of that, he was defending me closely, which had made it easy for me to slip past him.

“You’re up.” I passed the ball to Tatsuya for his offense.

As soon as he caught the ball, he faked to the right and then drove towards the left. But I predicted he would. It was Tatsuya’s favorite attack pattern, after all. I’d practiced with him for three whole years; I was familiar with all of his habits. I knew he would approach from the left when I saw him fake to the right and so I stuck out my left hand. The ball met my hand with perfect timing and I hit it out of its bounce and secured it for myself.

“What?!” Tatsuya yelled in surprise. “Was that luck?”

I blocked his best move before he even got to use it. Of course he’s surprised.

“I guess you could say half of it was intuition.”

It was my turn on offense again. I did a fake to the right, dribbled between my legs and passed him on the left, but Tatsuya caught up to me this time with those muscles he was so proud of. But I wouldn’t lose when it came to brawn right now. I considered powering through into a shot but instead spun to the right for a hook shot. My hook shots on the right weren’t particularly accurate but I somehow made it in.

For the record, I was even worse at hook shots on the left, and I was so terrible at fadeaway shots that I didn’t even want to mention them. I had confidence that I could keep up in a contest of strength, but I didn’t have much practice with power dribbling. Basically, the shot I’d made just now was cutting it close, but Tatsuya didn’t know my strengths or weaknesses, so he had to consider a lot of options. That’s why he was one step too slow. And it was the opposite for me, since I was very familiar with his playstyle.

“That’s two,” I said with a light smile.

Thought so. I wouldn’t stand a chance against third-year Tatsuya, but first-year Tatsuya has lots of flaws. Even someone talentless like me can stand a chance with enough experience and by reading his habits. Well, Tatsuya was always bad at defense, so that’s part of it. 

But, to make up for his weak defense, his offense was—

“You better not underestimate me. I’m playin’ seriously now,” Tatsuya said as he took the ball.

Fast! And agile. He drove past me before I could so much as move. I couldn’t react at all, even though I’d predicted he would come from the right. Tatsuya’s drive has always been insanely low to the court... I’m forever impressed by how well he can control that huge body of his.

Did he unconsciously realize I was reading his habits and decide to just move so fast I wouldn’t be able to react? If so, I have to hand it to our ace. His instinct and talent is in a league of its own.

But I won’t let you have this one! I want to show off in front of Hoshimiya and...for once, just one time, I want to defeat you.

I had played the same position as Tatsuya, a power forward, and since I was his substitute, I’d never once appeared in an official match. Tatsuya had remained friends with me until the very last moment. He’d stuck up for me until literally everyone hated me, even though I was a cocky bastard. After I became isolated, the only reason I wasn’t bullied and the only reason I could stay on the basketball team at all was all thanks to Tatsuya.

He’d been the ace and captain of the team, someone who stood so high up on the social ladder, and yet he didn’t let anyone trash-talk me. He’d hated me and never spoke to me unless he had to, but he never did anything to kick me off the team. Not once.

My youth was gray. It’s all thanks to Tatsuya that it never got any worse than that. My past could’ve been completely shrouded in darkness. Thank you, Tatsuya.

“Here’s the third. Let’s go, Tatsuya.”

The reason I was so scared of him wasn’t because he’d forced me to realize my high school debut was a flop, but because he was too dazzling.

That’s why I shy away from him. Because I don’t think we’re equals. I’m scared he’ll hate me again. And that...that’s probably true for everyone. I’m scared everyone here will hate me again. Reita, Uta, Hoshimiya, and Nanase... All of them are kinder, funnier, cooler, and cuter than me. I can’t even compete. They’re just so blindingly bright. That’s why I’m scared of them even though I love them so much, and it just so happens it’s most apparent in my actions towards Tatsuya.

I can’t help it. The reason I wanted to go back to high school so badly...

The reason I worked so hard to be a popular kid even though I know I don’t deserve it...

...was because I wanted to be friends with you! I know that the rainbow-colored youth I want to snatch up must have you in it. Right here, right now, I’ll overcome my past trauma and defeat Tatsuya!

It’s time. Through the legs, drive to the right. Spin and cut in, then dribble as if you’re hesitating and turn. Now then, how should I attack next? But my body was already dancing through the air as I planned my attack in my head. There are times you’ve gotta take a shot before you finish thinking in order to make it.

My body moved in one fluid motion and, with a flick of my wrist, the ball went flying in once more without touching the hoop. Swish! The net swayed gently a third time. It was the perfect play since Tatsuya had become vigilant of my drive.

“Hell yeah!” I cheered. I won! I scored three first so there’s no point in Tatsuya going again. He can only get up to two baskets here so there’s no chance for a tie.

“Shit! Are you serious?” Tatsuya yelled out in frustration.

The two of us collapsed onto the court. I thought I had plenty of energy to spare, but I realized my breathing was ragged. Playing so seriously really takes it out of you. I started sweating profusely as if my body suddenly remembered it needed to do that.

“That was awesome! Nice one, Natsu!” Uta charged at me, her energy maxed out. She grabbed my hands and pulled at me, trying to get me to stand up. I complied and got off my butt. As soon as I did, she intertwined her fingers with mine and began waving both of our hands with a hum. We looked like a two-person circle.

“Woo-hoo! Yaaay! Victory! By a landslide!” she cheered.

“Wh-Whoo, thanks,” I stammered. It didn’t matter how genuine Uta was being—the rapid beating of my heart was telling a different story. Cheerful people are always getting too up close and personal; it’s bad for my heart! With my hands in her control, Uta spun us around and around in a circle. Thankfully, Tatsuya tore her off of me eventually.

He held Uta’s shoulders with both hands and asked her, “Aren’t you even a little bit sad that I lost?”

“Tatsu, you’re so uncool! You lost to an amateur! Who would’ve thought?! I didn’t, that’s for sure!”

“Huuuh?! Then you face him!”

“Ehh, but I’m a girl, just a fragile little girl. Look at how big he is compared to me.”

“You only act like a girl when it’s handy...” Tatsuya disapprovingly clicked his tongue and released her. He turned back to me with a serious look. I met his gaze without flinching. I was finally able to face him undaunted.

This one-on-one had been my ritual to prove that we were friends on equal footing.

There still aren’t a lot of things I can beat Tatsuya at. With his talent in basketball, he’ll easily overtake me soon, but this was a me problem in the first place. I feel like I’ve drawn closer to the super dazzling Nagiura Tatsuya, just a bit, so this is enough for me.

“So, Natsuki. I think you’d do great... Will ya join the team?”

“No, sorry, man.” I no longer felt any lingering attachment to the basketball club.

Looks like I’m over my trauma. I’m aiming for a vibrant world, and I’m gonna walk a new path in high school to get there. I won’t follow my steps from the past. Perhaps Tatsuya had sensed my resolve, but he didn’t press any further.

“Hey, guys! We’re almost out of time!” Hoshimiya called out to us. I looked at the clock. It was already 4 p.m. We’d bought the three-hour pack a little after one, so our time was just about up.

Reita clapped his hands lightly to grab our attention. “All right, sorry, I’m sure you’re both tired, but we need to hurry up and leave.”

***

Outside the Spor-Cha, we were welcomed by a cool, pleasant breeze. Today was somewhat cooler, perfect for my overheated self. I absentmindedly thought about the refreshing weather as I downed a sports drink.

“Aah, I exercised so much today!” Hoshimiya said.

“Hikari, you seem very energetic,” Nanase commented.

“Well, why are you still so listless, Yuino-chan? We rested for so long at the end.”

“Heh... You think my body would recover after such a short break?”

“You okay, Nanase? Your personality is off,” I said with genuine concern.

Nanase turned red and muttered, “It was a joke...”

I thought she lost sight of her identity. Happens to me too. I used to be a boring, quiet introvert, after all.

“You’ve got way too much stamina for someone in the go home club. And here I thought we were comrades,” Nanase said while staring at me hard.

I smirked at her in reply.

“All right, we shouldn’t hang around in front of the store. Let’s move.” Reita directed us away.

“Move? Move where?” Tatsuya asked, tilting his head questioningly.

“Do you guys want to eat dinner somewhere together? Let’s pick a restaurant and go in. It’s a bit early since it’s only four, but we can take the time to chat, right?” Reita suggested.

“Sounds good and all, but I don’t have much money,” Tatsuya said.

“Oh! I want to go somewhere with a drink bar!” Uta chimed in.

While Reita was thinking about the location, I pointed to the other side of the street. “How about that family restaurant? It’s cheap and it’s close.”

I was pointing to a Saize, a chain restaurant known for its affordable eats. That had been my favorite place to eat in college. It was cheap, the food was tasty, and I didn’t feel out of place going there alone. Plus there was a bit of everything on the menu.

“Good idea. Let’s do that,” Reita agreed. And so, we all headed to Saize.

Reita really is the decision maker of this group. He doesn’t sound bossy or yell at us, though. Maybe it’s because he speaks up at the right times? Everyone respects him, and he’s very attentive. He doesn’t force his own opinion on others and instead takes everyone else’s opinions into account before making suggestions. I continued pondering Reita’s social skills all the way to the restaurant.

Saize was pretty empty, probably because of the early hour. A server led us to our seats, and we each ordered our food and access to the drink bar. I was super hungry because of all the exercising so I ordered two dishes, a Milan-style doria and spaghetti aglio e olio. I was a growing teen so I’d gobble it all up easily.

I got two things but it’s only six hundred yen! I can always count on Saize. Well, it’s more than that if you include the drink bar...but it’s still a price that a high schooler’s grateful for!

“Let’s make a toast to celebrate the start of school!” Uta said after we all got back from the drink bar. She raised her cup in the air and we all followed along. This is kinda embarrassing; there are people staring. Well, it’s a bunch of high schoolers toasting with soft drinks so they probably just think it’s heartwarming.

Reita smiled wryly and said, “Is that why we hung out today?”

“I just decided that it is! We’re celebrating the start of school! And that we’re all friends!”

Hoshimiya said with a small smile, “I’m impressed you can say that without getting embarrassed, Uta-chan.”

“Is that bad?” Uta asked, head tilted slightly.

Hoshimiya petted Uta’s head gently. “No, it’s good. You’re so cute.”

“You’re cute too, Hikari,” Yuino cut in and petted Hoshimiya’s head.

“Huh? What’re you doing, Yuino-chan?!”

Hmm... Am I witnessing a yuri moment? I had a feeling I was about to awaken something sleeping deep within me, but if it did wake up, I likely wouldn’t be able to date Hoshimiya. So I snapped myself out of my fantasy and came back to reality. Wh-What was that just now?

“Whew! This is tasty! Soda’s the best!” Uta said happily after gulping down her melon soda. Then, she suddenly looked back at me as if she’d remembered something. “So, Natsu, you’re not gonna join the basketball club?”

“Nah. Sorry,” I replied.

“I see. That’s a bummer, but oh well!” Uta said. Her tone was a bit glum.

“Hey, why’re you so pushy about him joinin’ the club?” Tatsuya asked, puzzled. “You’re on the girls’ team; it’s got nothing to do with you.”

“What? That’s so mean, Tatsu! We’re basketball buddies!” Uta growled with displeasure and glared at him.

I feel like the atmosphere is turning sour because of me, so let’s change the topic.

“I’m not joining a club because I want to get a part-time job. I’m broke. But I’m still lost on where to work. Any ideas?” I blurted out my current number one worry. Okay, it wasn’t really a worry per se, but it was something I was mulling over right now.

This is new. I’ve never asked my friends for advice before. I’ve always made decisions after thinking alone...because I had no one to ask.

“Oh, a job, huh? I’ve never had one before so I’ve got no clue,” Tatsuya said and sipped his cola.

“I know, right?” I agreed.

“How about a common option like this sort of family restaurant?” Reita suggested.

“Other places I can think of working at are a convenience store, a karaoke place, Mister Donut, fast-food places like McD’s, a café, an izakaya, and gyudon chains like Yoshigyu,” Hoshimiya listed off quickly.

“Yeah, I was thinking of that too.” I nodded. I appreciated their suggestions, though I had already considered them. Welp, looks like I’ve thought of basically everything a person could think of. I already worked a job in college before, unlike them. I’d better think more on my—

“Why don’t you work where I do?” Nanase interrupted my thoughts with a suggestion. She stirred the ice in her coffee around with a little clink.

The air had frozen up as soon as she said that. Finally, Hoshimiya spoke up, holding her hand up to her forehead. “Huh? Did I mishear you? Yuino-chan, you’ve got a job?”

“I do. I work at a café near here.”

“I didn’t know that!”

“Of course not. I never told you,” Nanase said bluntly while petting Hoshimiya on the head. “I started working over spring break and, well, explaining seemed like it’d be annoying so I kept quiet.”

“That’s why you never told me?!”

“Besides, Hikari, if I told you, wouldn’t you come every day?”

“Not every day! I don’t have the money.”

Nanase gave her a look. “So are you saying you’d come as long as your wallet allowed it?”

Reita chuckled at that. Hoshimiya kept silent, not sure how to answer Nanase’s loaded question.

“I only work twice a week because I’ve got lessons too. The manager is having trouble since we’re lacking hands; that’s why I’m asking,” Nanase explained. “If you’ve got time to spare, Haibara-kun, why don’t you try interviewing with us?”

“Oooh.” I thought for a moment. “You said the café was nearby?”

“Yes, it’s called Café Mares. Their sweets have been quite popular recently.”

“Oh! I’ve been there before! Wow, Yui-Yui works there!” Uta exclaimed.

I looked the place up on my phone and saw that it was a nice café with a pleasant-looking atmosphere. I used to go to cafés alone to read back in college so I’m already quite fond of them. Also, Nanase works there, making it a great opportunity to get closer to someone in the group. Sounds like a good proposition.

“Whoa, this might be a great deal,” I said.

“Right? The hourly pay and the work aren’t bad either.” Nanase smiled proudly. She looks cute when she’s happy, I thought quietly.

“I’ll check it out and then decide if I want your referral.”

I was interested, but I didn’t want to interview with a café I’d never been to. Hence why I’d responded like that. It’s not something I can start right this second, anyway.

In the meantime, Hoshimiya was still in a daze due to Nanase hiding such an important piece of info from her.

“Hey, Hikari? How long are you going to feel down?” Nanase asked.

After a pause, Hoshimiya replied sadly, “You hid your part-time job from me because you hated the idea of me visiting you at work, and yet you easily told Natsuki-kun about it because he’s looking for a job. How can I be happy?”

When she says it like that, I can’t help but agree. Wait, huh?! I-Is she bothered by me?!

“I was going to tell you eventually. Of course I would! It just happened to be that now was the perfect time,” Nanase said calmly while twirling her pretty black hair around her fingers.

Cool as a cucumber, as usual. She doesn’t look sorry at all... I stopped myself right there. Ack, don’t think like that! I got carried away. My bad.

“Thank you for waiting!” A server brought our long-awaited meal, thankfully interrupting the conversation. Afterwards, we chatted about class and the like while finishing our food.

When our conversation died down for a moment, Hoshimiya said regretfully, “It’s about time for me to go home.” She put her hands together in an apologetic gesture. “I’m sorry, everyone. My family gets naggy when it comes to my curfew...”

“Oh, it’s already seven. I didn’t notice. What a surprise,” I said.

We chatted for three hours. It felt like time flew by because we were having fun. Hoshimiya had told her parents that she’d be eating out for dinner, but they would worry if she wasn’t home before eight.

“All right, let’s all go home then. I have practice tomorrow too,” Reita said. Urged by his words, we all went our separate ways, marking the end of our fun weekend hangout.

I want to hang out with everyone like this again, I thought sincerely.

***

That same day while I was on my way home, my phone rang just as I was exiting the train. The number displayed on the screen wasn’t one I had saved, but I recognized it all the same.

“Do you need something?” I asked after picking up.

“Tsk, tsk. Your tone sounds quite dark, Natsuki. Did you mess up?” I heard a familiar voice through the phone. I had just spoken with her yesterday, after all. It was Motomiya Miori.

Did she call to ask about how the clothes she picked out for me went over? Nah, she just sounds amused. Well, to be fair, I’d be curious too if someone close to me was taking a stab at their high school debut.

“People don’t normally pick up the phone with a bright, happy voice,” I replied, trying to stay as calm as possible. You’d definitely tease me if I sounded happy picking up a call from you.

“If you’re saying that, does that mean it went well?”

I paused for a moment and then said, “I had fun.” I was having mixed feelings about how easily she was reading me from my replies.

“Well then, you should be thanking me!”

“I would’ve thanked you honestly, but when you call me like this and demand it from me, the feelings of gratitude kinda fly away, you know...”

“Ah ha ha! Oh, you! You’re the type of guy to say, ‘I was just about to!’ when your mom nags you to study.”

“Shut up!” I don’t like the way you see right through me! This is getting annoying. I calmed myself down. “Well, you know, thanks. It’s thanks to you I got through it without making a fool of myself.”

“You’re welcome.” Miori answered my honest gratitude in a kind tone, without any teasing.

That makes me feel kinda... Well, it’s fine and all. My skin’s crawling, though.

“Are you home already?” she asked.

“No, I’m on my way back. I’m about to leave the station.”

“Oh, perfect. Wait there for ten minutes.”

“Hey, that’s not so perfect for me, you know,” I rebutted, but she’d already hung up. I can’t believe she just hung up after saying what she wanted to! Wait, does she always assume I have no option to refuse? 

Feeling like I didn’t have much of a choice, I leaned on a pole near the ticket gates and spaced out as I watched people walk by.

“Oh, there you are! ’Sup!” A girl wearing a white hoodie and a black miniskirt came out of one of the gates. The outfit was simple, but it accentuated her excellent figure. My eyes unwittingly flew to her thighs.

Isn’t that skirt too short? I would not allow that if I were her dad!

“’Sup...” I casually greeted her with as few words as possible while my brain was in turmoil.

“What are you staring at? Did you fall for me again?” Miori asked with an alluring smile. She licked her lips, bringing my attention to how luscious they were.

“I’ve never fallen for you, not now and not in the past either,” I said, shooting her down.

“What, no way! Really?”

“Why on earth do you think I’m lying? You were just a brat commander back then.”

“Grr... I thought for sure you were blown away by my manliness.”

“Does that make me the woman then?”

“Ah ha ha! I’m kidding. It’s just a joke.” As she laughed loudly, Miori began walking off. I followed behind her.

“Anyway, what were you doing today?” I asked her.

“We didn’t have practice so I hung out with my middle school friends. You know, the Sayu and Kana crowd.”

Yeah, I remember those names. They were in the popular kids group of my class. I doubt they remember my name, so I can’t even call them acquaintances. 

“Hmm,” I replied with a nonanswer.

“You don’t sound very interested even though you asked me first. You won’t be popular like that, you know?” Miori chided, giving me the stink eye.

“Ugh.” I wanted to object but I was at a loss for words. The old me would’ve had plenty of rebuttals since I never used to care about my popularity, but now my goal was to get Hoshimiya to like me. I needed to become popular with girls; I couldn’t stay like this. Finally I asked, “Then what should I do?”

“You just need to respond properly. Answer in a tone that shows you’re interested in what they have to say.”

“I see.”

“That does show you’re interested, but it doesn’t help the conversation flow. You gotta say things like, ‘Yeah, yeah,’ or, ‘Oh, I totally get that!’ or, ‘That sounds great!’ to keep the conversation going.”

“Yeah, yeah. That sounds great!” I parroted.

“Oh my god! It’s bad if you respond with the wrong thing. That’s a dead giveaway you’re not paying attention. Got it? Jeez, you’re so proper in front of other people, but when it’s just me you turn into such a sourpuss.” Miori shrugged her shoulders with a sigh. “Good grief.”

“There’s no point in keeping up an act around someone who knew me from middle school.”

“I see; so that’s what you’re thinking,” Miori replied in a serious tone and patted me on the shoulders.

I know you’re Miori and all but I still get nervous from physical contact with girls so please stop that already!

“Look, a vending machine.” Miori pointed at the one she was currently staring at.

Oh, the memories! I used to use that one a lot because you could buy juice from it for one hundred yen or less. “You’re almost home,” I said. “Just drink something when you get there.”

“Didn’t I pick those clothes out for you? Treat me to a drink! ♪” she said with a sweet smile.

I don’t mind if that’s all, I thought. I inserted a hundred-yen coin into the vending machine, and Miori selected a carton of strawberry orange juice without hesitation.

“Thanks!”

“You always buy one of those. That hasn’t changed,” I said.

For some reason, Miori stopped as soon as I said that. “Hm? Why did I pick this?”

“What the heck are you saying?” Are you going crazy?

“You know, I do like strawberry orange juice, but I haven’t drank it much lately. I guess I was feeling it, like back in the old days. Or perhaps my old habits have resurfaced?”

“Oh, I kinda get what you mean,” I replied half-heartedly while buying a can of black coffee.

“Hey! You’re supposed to follow your old habits here too.”

“I don’t remember what I used to drink!” I’ve got an extra seven years of memories clouding me up, after all.

“You always used to drink this apple juice.”

“Really? I’m surprised you remember.”

“’Cause it costs one hundred like mine but it’s a little bigger and in a can. You always used to insist that it was more valuable. And anyway, why do you only remember what I used to drink?”

That does sound like an argument I’d make as a kid. One hundred yen was a lot to me back then. “Well, you used to like anything if it had strawberries in it. That was all you cared about.”

“I’m kinda pissed off for some reason.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re drinking black coffee so now it feels like you’re an adult.”

There wouldn’t be so much suffering in this world if all you needed to be an adult was to drink black coffee... I drank so much coffee in college that it stopped tasting bitter, though.

“Oh well, people change,” Miori said. She stepped away and started taking pictures of me with her smartphone without even asking permission.

“That’s my line.” Who would’ve thought that Commander Miori of the Shorts-Wearing Youngsters would turn into such a feminine girl, I thought. “Hey, stop taking photos of me!”

“Oh, come on. Your look is a product of my work.”

“You better not post it on Minsta. I’ll make you pay a fee if you do.”

“Ah ha ha! You think you’re a model now just because you’re a little better looking?”

“Now listen, you...”

“Anyway, what did they all think?”

“They didn’t really react.” I paused, and the moment when Hoshimiya had complimented me flashed through my mind. “Well, I did get a compliment.” Ah, crap, I think I’m grinning.

“Oh? Good for you. You went to a Spor-Cha, right?”

“Yeah, and I had plenty of stamina thanks to my training so...” I continued talking about my day, and before I knew it we were in front of my house.

Huh? Why did I blab about my whole day? I even told her about my morning. Miori’s replies had been so perfect, so natural, that I couldn’t help but keep talking.

“All righty, see you later, Natsuki. You better tell me if something interesting’s going on, okay?” Miori said with a grin and headed home.

M-Miori... She’s much more formidable than I originally thought!

***

Five days later on a Thursday after school, Nanase came over to my desk after she’d finished packing her bag. “Well then, let’s go, Haibara-kun,” she said.

Is it just me or did everyone freak out when she walked over and said that?

“Yeah.” I nodded and got up from my seat to head out with Nanase. The other four had run off to their clubs as soon as homeroom was over. Even Hoshimiya’s gone off to the literature club.

“You’re going to have to go through the interview, but it’s just for formalities,” Nanase explained. The two of us were on our way to her workplace, Café Mares. She had a shift today, and I was going for my interview.

Two days after our Saturday hangout, I’d visited Café Mares alone and taken a liking to its calm atmosphere. So I had asked Nanase to refer me.

“With your personality, I think you’ll pass without trouble, Haibara-kun.”

“If so, that’d be nice,” I replied.

I wonder how much of my real personality Nanase has truly grasped? I’d imagine my true self doesn’t give off an interview-passing impression. Well, I’m sure I’ll manage to find a job if push comes to shove, but I have failed interviews before, back when I was job hunting as a college senior. When I inevitably got rejected from thirty different companies, I wondered if it was time to dig myself a hole to lie in. Somehow in the end, I did get an informal offer. Not that it means anything since I get to redo my past. No regrets there, though.

“So they need help in the kitchen?” I asked.

“The dining room floor needs help too, but the kitchen needs it more,” she answered.

“What position do you work, Nanase?”

“I work in the dining area. I’m not proud of it but I can’t cook.”

“Are you just saying that?” I asked, doubtful.

“Is it that unexpected?” she replied.

“Well, you just seem like you can do anything.”

“I get that a lot. But unlike what everyone imagines, I’m a very normal girl. I know a little about tea ceremony and calligraphy because I took lessons in the past.”

“Yeah, I think recently I’ve grown to understand that about you more.”

Nanase looked conflicted for a moment and then said, “I’m none too pleased that you accepted that so easily.”

“Well, aren’t you a difficult one!” I quipped.

Nanase giggled. The elegant way she covered her mouth with her hand not only suggested a proper upbringing but also just plain looked adorable. Nanase, you... Any more of that and I might end up stanning you! She acts like a cool beauty, but she’s actually a normal girl on the inside. Is that not just the strongest trope?

“All right, let’s go,” Nanase started, but then she noticed me ogling her and tilted her head to the side. “Huh? What’s wrong?”

The gap between her dignified face and a cute head tilt like that is just too adorable, I thought, but I said aloud, “Oh, uh, it’s nothing.”

Wh-Whew... I stared too intently. I feel like I’m gradually becoming an idol otaku in spirit for Nanase. I don’t want to date her or anything. How do I put it? I just want to stan Nanase. Ah, forget it; I just want her to live a happy life!

Nanase continued our conversation, unaware of my serious yet creepy thoughts. “Haibara-kun, you want to work in the kitchen, right?”

“Hmm. Working the floor sounds good too, but I’m cool with the kitchen if they’re lacking staff there.” I really was fine either way. But if I had to pick one, I was definitely more inclined to work the kitchen because, as an introvert, speaking with strangers was way more mentally taxing than working behind the scenes.

“How good are you at cooking?”

“How good? That’s hard to answer.” I hesitated. I’d lived alone in college and had a lot of free time, so I ended up studying cooking for fun. I’d watched all sorts of cooking videos on YouTube, looked up recipes online, and braved a new dish every day. I basically never left home except to go to class, so I had all the time in the world to experiment in the kitchen. Ha ha ha! They say cooking is a pain, but leaving home is a way bigger pain to me! I mean, I don’t ever want to leave my house. Staying indoors forever is perfect for my lifestyle.

Nanase nodded cheerfully at my reply, oblivious to the reclusive monologue in my head. “Heh, I know what you mean.”

“Well, I’m probably good enough to work in a café. I’ve cooked a decent amount at home before, so I’m sure I can whip up something tasty—though I’ve gone through a lot of trial and error,” I said. And besides, I worked at a café before in college. I can make most things on your average café menu and handle working the floor too.

“Oh? You sound quite confident. Looks like I’ll have something to look forward to.”

“But will I even have the chance to cook for you, Nanase?”

“I go there often enough as a guest. Maybe I’ll go when you’re on the clock,” she said, smiling mischievously.

***

Once we got to Café Mares, I took the interview and passed it without issue. We also discussed my shifts; I would come in three times a week after school, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays I’d get called in ad hoc if needed.

“Well then, I’ll be counting on you starting next week,” said the manager, a kindhearted-looking elderly man. That gentle smile is truly becoming. I’m glad the manager isn’t scary; I’d make more mistakes working under an intimidating boss out of fear. 

“Oh! You’re a handsome one. Are you the new guy?” A blonde girl casually called out to me as she walked into the restaurant.

A college student? I wondered. Looks like another employee, judging by how nonchalantly she walked behind the counter.

“I’ll be starting next week. I’m Haibara Natsuki.”

“Nice to meetcha, Natsuki-kun. I’m Kirishima Mika. I’m a first-year in college.” She casually offered me a handshake, and I realized something right away.

I know what this is... This is how an extrovert initiates physical contact!

“Oh, right, wasn’t there someone Yuino wanted to bring in too?” Kirishima-san asked, remembering.

I was about to answer, but Nanase spoke up first. “Yes, that would be Haibara-kun,” she said while cleaning the dining area.

Kirishima-san looked at Nanase with a grin and whispered in my ear, “By the way, are you her boyfriend?”

“I can hear you. He’s not my boyfriend,” Nanase said, exasperated.

“I’m not talking to you; I’m talking to him right now. Right, Natsuki-kun?”

“Unfortunately, I’m not her boyfriend. Though I’d love to have a girlfriend like Nanase,” I replied with a shrug.

“Oho? Hmmm? Hear that, Yuino?” Kirishima-san sounded like she was having fun.

Hm? I was trying to be honest, but did that just come off as creepy instead?

“So what? Please don’t tease me,” Nanase responded indifferently, keeping her back towards us as she continued cleaning.

“Hey, Kirishima! Don’t pick on the new hires. Hurry up and get to work.” The manager called her out with a dry smile.

“Okaaay,” Kirishima replied grudgingly and disappeared into the staff room.

Nanase is working already, so I should go home for today. “All right then, Nanase, see you tomorrow,” I said.

“Yeah, see you tomorrow,” she said after a short pause. Then she added, “Let’s work hard together.”

And just like that, I’d found a part-time job. Starting next week, I would have the new experience of balancing high school and work.

***

Back when I’d first started living alone, I used to eat out all the time. But having to leave home to buy my meals got annoying fast, so I started eating cup ramen instead. Eventually, I got bored of that so I began cooking.

Cooking for myself was easy. In order to make a decent meal, all I needed to do was get the ingredients, chop them up, and then boil, grill, or fry the food. After I got those steps down, I just needed to figure out when and how much to season each dish.

But that was only a simple meal for myself—it wasn’t presentable for other people. I don’t mind if my creation is a flop, but meals served at a restaurant are a different story. If you’re getting paid to cook, you have to serve something worth the customer’s money, I thought. I was really worried about that when I started my café job. It’s a given, but you have to follow their recipes, no freestyling allowed. 

Back then, I had gotten used to cooking for money after three months of working. Restaurants didn’t change their menus much, so I just had to memorize their recipes; I could even put my own spin on stuff sometimes.

“Natsuki-kuuun! A Napolitan, please,” Kirishima called out.

“Okay, coming up.” I confirmed that I’d heard her and started cooking.

While I boiled spaghetti in a pot of salt water, I cut up onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Next, I mixed ketchup with other seasonings and then stir-fried the chopped-up ingredients in a pan. I then drained the water from the pasta and combined it with the vegetable and ketchup mixtures before finally sautéing it all on high heat. One Haibara-style Napolitan completed! Well, I made it the standard way, but I seasoned it to my liking. Each menu item at Café Mares had a recipe to follow, but they allowed some deviation as you pleased, which felt very rewarding. Ah, this is fun!

“Kirishima-san, Napolitan’s done!” I called out.

“Oh, that was fast! I’ll take it out, then!”

On my first day working in the kitchen, the manager tasted my food before sending it out to the customers as a sort of mini-test, but I passed without a problem (he actually showered me with praise!). After two days of that, I started working in full capacity without any training wheels. I’ve pretty much learned the ropes already.

“You know, you’re pretty good at this, Natsuki-kun. Are you sure you haven’t worked a job before?” Kirishima asked merrily after delivering the Napolitan.

There were only two customers right now. The café got pretty packed during rush hour, but on off-hours, it was usually pretty empty, so idle chatter was permitted. Now was one of those peaceful times.

“Nope, though I have cooked at home before,” I replied.

“Well, sure! But I never woulda thought that your cooking skills would earn our manager’s stamp of approval on your first day. You’ve settled in so quickly that it’s kinda spooky. Yuino, you did a great job bringing in a genius like him. You deserve a star!” Kirishima said to Nanase, who was counting the money in the register.

“Just so you know, I had no idea he’d be this competent,” Nanase answered and shot me a look full of mixed feelings.

Did I do something? I wondered.

Nanase continued. “It took me a whole month to learn everything to work the floor.” Her eyes narrowed into a glare.

You sound upset by it, but I think that’s normal, I thought.

“Yuino, you learned super fast! Natsuki-kun is the weird one here!”

I know you’re saying that to praise me, but being called “weird” by a fashionable college student feels like a stab to the heart. Still, she’s right that I’m just your classic weirdo, introverted high school student... Heh heh heh...

“It’s true. Haibara-kun is very reliable. I’m counting on you,” the manager said as he came out of the back and patted me on the shoulder.

You’re all laying on the praise, but guys, I’ve actually got two years of experience working for a café! I’m just doing the basics, so I feel conflicted about this. But if I told everyone that, it’d sound like a lie. They’d just need to look into it a teeny bit to see that there’s no proof.

“Not at all,” I denied. “This isn’t much.”

“Haibara-kun, you always act so modest. It wouldn’t hurt to be a bit more conceited,” Nanase said.

But I’d be ashamed if I acted cocky just because of this! I may be an incompetent, gloomy bastard, but even someone like me would excel at a few things when I’ve got an extra seven years of experience on everyone else my age. It’s an advantage of time traveling. 

“Nah, I’m not anything special. I can only cook because of the people who taught me.” I wasn’t trying to be humble or anything. I was just trying to hide the truth behind an ambiguous smile.

The door chime’s timely ringing saved me from any more of that topic. Nanase immediately headed to the dining area to greet the customer. All right, time to finish washing up all those dishes, I thought and got ready to tackle the pile.

“Heyo, Yui-Yui! I came to play!” A familiar voice interrupted my thoughts.

She’s so loud. I looked out towards the entrance with a sinking feeling and saw a familiar trio. Our latest guests were Uta, Tatsuya, and Reita.

“Hey, Nanase. Where’s Natsuki?” Tatsuya asked while looking around the café. He spotted me in the back and his eyes grew wide. “Huh? You’re working in the kitchen?!”

“Let me show you to your seats. This way, please,” Nanase said. She was clearly embarrassed, but she still followed the manual to a T. It’s hard to tell if it’s okay to speak casually, or if you should follow the manual when your friends show up at work. I feel you, kind of.

Tatsuya and Uta wearily sank into their seats. They must be tired after practice, I surmised.

Amused by their state, Reita came up to Nanase and me to apologize with a smile on his face. “We had a little chat after we heard you two mention during lunch that your shifts would line up today. We thought it’d be fun to drop by for a surprise visit after practice,” he explained in an attempt to pacify Nanase. “Did we get you?”

“You surprised me! Can you tell me in advance next time?” Nanase said, pouting.

I was working in the kitchen so I couldn’t join in, but the manager noticed and said, “Why don’t you go talk to them? They’re your friends, right?”

“Huh? Is that okay?” I replied in surprise.

“Yes, there aren’t many customers today.”

“Thank you! I won’t talk for long.” I bowed and walked over to where Uta and the rest were seated.

“’Sup! Did you come to give us more work?” I said.

“What? Way to be mean! Natsu, aren’t you happy we came to visit?” Uta bleated.

“Not particularly. We were together the whole day at school,” I replied seriously.

“Grr!” Uta let out a displeased growl and puffed up her cheeks. “Natsu, are you happy right now?!”

“Y-Yeah?” I stammered. Why’s she being so pushy? And her face is way too close to mine. I backed away from her.

“Are you happy to be friends with me?” she pressed.

I was taken aback by how bluntly she was interrogating me, and I instinctively averted my gaze. I nodded. “W-Well...sure, in a way.”

“Do you have fun at school with us?”

“Yeah, it’s fun.”

“Then you’re having fun now, right?! You’re happy to see me, yeah?!”

I looked at her, bewildered. “Uh-huh...?” I don’t think that logic checks out, but I can’t tell her that! If I do, her beaming smile will disappear. She’s beaming at me so hard I can see stars in her eyes. How could I destroy her happiness? I’m such a weak man. “Yeah, I guess so. You’re right. Let’s just go with that!”

“Yaaay!” She cheered and raised her hand for a high five.

“Y-Yaaay!” I somehow managed to high-five her without missing. This is bad. I can’t keep up with her energy! It’s the peppy kid special: hyper conversation!

After a pause, Nanase commented, “You two sure are close.”

“Of course we are! Natsu and I are suuuper close!” Uta stood up and tried to put her arm around my shoulder.

Hey, what’d I say about getting too close?! I thought, but I went with the flow anyway and bent down so that she could get her arm around.

Uta’s too close. She’s soft. I thought her chest was flat as a board, but I was wrong. She’s definitely a girl, I realized. Also, why does she smell so nice? Didn’t she come here after practice?

Uta made a peace sign at Nanase, completely oblivious to the disturbance within me. “Yaaay! Yui-Yui, take a pic of us!”

“Hey, wai—” Nanase’s phone clicked as she snapped a picture of us before I could stop either of them. I guess I don’t really mind! But my heart can’t keep up, so I need a break sometimes! Also, Nanase, weren’t you too prepared for that? You were already opening the camera app, weren’t you? 

Nanase saw the accusatory look I was sending her and smiled. “I was thinking it’d be a good pic for Minsta.”

“Can’t you use a normal picture? This one’s kinda...” I trailed off.

“Kinda what?” Nanase asked with a devilish smile.

Well, you know, it’s, uh, err... Doesn’t it look like we’re dating or something? Am I being too self-conscious? Is this normal in the world of extroverts?

“Um, hey, Yui-Yui,” Uta started. “Can you use a different photo? Oh, I know! Let’s all take one together!”

“Oh, really? If you say so, Sakura-san.” Nanase readily accepted Uta’s suggestion while my inner turmoil was still ongoing.

Uta probably wasn’t thinking anything petty like me. She just wanted to take a picture with everyone.

“Come on, guys! Get close!” Uta exclaimed as she set her phone camera to selfie mode and raised it up. I had no choice but to get close to her again because of how little the camera could capture. The five of us huddled together to get inside the frame. After Uta took a selfie of us, she sent it to our RINE group.

I heard my phone chime and opened it to check the picture. Sure enough, all five of us were captured nicely in the photo. I kinda... I kinda feel happy about this. I couldn’t help but smile. It’s like a fun memory’s been etched into this one picture. I used to think that taking pictures was worthless...but that’s not true!

“Oh, look, look! Hikarin sent a message!” Uta said. I closed the photo and went back to our group chat.

Hoshimiya had sent, “No fair, you guys!” to the group, along with a sticker of an angry person.

“Huh? Come to think of it, why isn’t Hoshimiya with you guys?” I asked.

“We invited her, but she couldn’t stay out late because of her curfew. Also, the literature club ends earlier than sports clubs, so the timing didn’t work out,” Reita explained.

“Ah, yeah, that’s rough.”

Uta sent back “I know, right!” to Hoshimiya.

What a heartwarming sight, I thought.

“I want to post it on my Minsta too. Is that okay?” Nanase asked for permission. We all nodded, myself included.

“Oh yeah, Nanase, we’re not friends on Minsta. What’s your account name?” I asked.

“Oh? I didn’t know you were on Minsta,” she replied.

“I just made one, so I don’t have any followers on it or anything.”

“How sad! All right, can’t be helped; I’ll follow you.”

“Ah! Me too! Add me too!” Uta jumped in.

“Same here. Tatsuya, you don’t use Minsta, right?” Reita asked.

“No, I have one, but only to see what’s up. Posting stuff is a pain in the ass,” Tatsuya replied.

And just like that, I became connected to everyone on Minsta. I already knew the rest of them were on there from our conversations, so I’d felt left out and sad. And so I had made my own a few days ago.

I was only a little sad! Really, just a tad. Besides, all the popular kids are on Minsta these days. Last time around, I only followed otaku accounts on Twister...

Anyway, since I was finally part of the Minsta fun, I opened Nanase’s post of the picture we’d just taken. Underneath the pic of the five of us was a short caption: “Everyone came to visit me at work ♡ thanks~~! #CaféMares”

I stared at it for a moment and then said, “Who the heck wrote this?!”

“Wh-What? Is there a problem?” Nanase huffed and turned away, cheeks slightly flushed.

“Ah ha ha! Yui-Yui’s completely different on Minsta! Isn’t it funny?” Uta teased.

“I’m used to it now, but I was shocked when I first saw her Minsta,” Reita said with a wry smile.

“Oh! Hey, hey, Yui-Yui! Doesn’t Natsu work in the kitchen?” Uta suddenly asked.

“Yes,” Nanase confirmed.

“Does that mean if we order something right now, Natsu will cook it for us?”

“That’s right.”

“Oy, don’t give me more work to do,” I protested.

“Unfortunately for you, I already told my mom that I would be eating out for dinner today,” Reita said. “I’ll go hungry if you don’t cook something up for me, Natsuki. I want a pasta dish, so make me whatever you’re confident in.”

“I have dinner waiting for me at home, so I want something light. Whatever you recommend, Natsu!” Uta exclaimed.

“I’m good with anything, as long as there’s a lot of it,” Tatsuya directed at me.

“Don’t come to a café expecting large portions...” If you want that from a café, go to Komeda. Regardless, I returned to the kitchen with a smile on my face.

When I looked towards the manager, he nodded back amicably. He already knew what I wanted to ask. It was as if he was telling me, “They’re your friends; make whatever you’d like!”

It’s nice how flexible privately owned stores are. This’ll be fun!

“All right, what to make...” I mumbled. My friends came all the way here, so I want to make them something tasty, I thought. Oh man, I feel the nerves. I’ve made food for customers before, but never for my friends. Because I didn’t have any friends to cook for. Yes, I know, very obvious.

“What’re you going to make?” Nanase asked me.

“Just watch! I’m going to show you my serious mode.”

“I don’t mind, but don’t change too much or else you’ll get in trouble, okay?”

Good point. It wouldn’t be good if I diverged too much from the menu. I also need to keep the cost in mind. There are a few other customers, so I don’t want to take too long either.

Hmm. All right, I’m itching to start.

***

Nanase carried off the dishes I’d just finished cooking.

“Wow! It looks good!” Uta said gleefully. She was loud as always, but the other customers had left while I was cooking, so I figured it was fine.

For Reita, I’d made a seafood pasta soup since he had requested a pasta dish. Since Uta liked sweets, I made her pancakes with plenty of whipped cream on top. And for Tatsuya, I made a large helping of omurice because he only cared about volume.

All I did was add my own touch to existing menu items, but they’re made the way I like ’em. I wonder if they’ll like them too. I... I’m feeling nervous! I held my breath and stared at everybody. Uta took the first bite and then blinked a few times in wordless surprise. She ate a second bite, then had a third, and continued eating silently. What do you think?! I cried out in my heart anxiously. Tatsuya and Reita also began eating their food.

I mustered up the courage and asked for their thoughts. “H-How is it?” However, none of them answered for some reason. Oh no, is it bad?

“It’s...” Uta started.

“It’s?” I repeated, urging her to continue.

“It’s super tasty!” she yelled in delight.

Reita calmly scolded Uta for getting too worked up in the café. “Uta, you’re bothering other people in here. Speak with your indoor voice.” He paused for a moment and then turned to me. “But I agree with her. Who would’ve thought you could cook something this tasty! I’ve come here before, so I’m guessing this is your personal take on the recipes?”

“Yeah. I ignored the store’s recipe this time and made your food my way. Keep it a secret,” I answered and put a finger to my lips. Though I doubt the manager will get mad.

“It’s delicious! Really, really tasty! Natsu, you’re super awesome!” Uta fussed over the food, but in a quieter tone this time because of Reita’s warning.

I get happy when you eat it like it’s the best thing ever. I’m glad I cooked it for you! I thought.

Tatsuya was busy shoving omurice into his mouth, but he took a moment to mumble out “delish” between bites.

“I want to try yours too! Tatsu, give me a bite!” Uta said, her twinkling eyes locked on his omurice. She opened her mouth.

Is she telling Tatsuya to feed her? In public, in front of other people like an extrovert? Oh, right, she is an extrovert. I’m the only one here who isn’t outgoing, I thought to myself. Though, there are different types of extroverts.

Unexpectedly, Tatsuya reacted like a person with common sense. “Huh?” he muttered, at a loss for words, and then turned away, perhaps in annoyance. “Who’d do such an embarrassing thing? If you want to try it, then take some yourself,” he said and put his spoon down.

Uta picked up the spoon without a care. “Okay, don’t mind if I do!” She took a bite. “Wow! This is great too!”

The three of them shared their food and happily chowed down. I don’t think pancakes go well with the other dishes... Ah, whatever. Uta looks happy so that’s all that matters. I noticed Nanase gulp beside me. I bet she wants to try too. Well, I’m also hungry. Let’s tease her a bit. A-All right... Time to give it a shot!

I tapped Nanase on the shoulder and asked her with a grin, “You wanna try some?”

“W-Well...” She thought for a moment. “I’m on shift, though. I know; I’ll have you make my meal today.”

“Sure, no problem. Leave it to me!” I pounded my fist to my chest. Nice, I spoke to her cheerfully! Plus, I successfully touched her without it being awkward. It’s amazing that extroverts can do this like it’s as easy as breathing.

I, on the other hand, was terrible at judging when I was close enough to someone to touch them casually. Tapping Nanase’s shoulder had taken a lot of grit even though we were on close terms (though this was just my own presumption). It’d suck if I miscalculated how close we were and made them uncomfortable. It’s better to lean on the cautious side.

After my exchange with Nanase, a realization suddenly hit me. Is it just me, or has Tatsuya been oddly quiet today?

But before I could talk to him, Kirishima bonked me on the head from behind and interjected, “Hey now, you’re too loud! There’s still work to do even if there aren’t any other customers.”

Yeah, I realized, even though we’re the only ones here, we’re being a bit too loud.

“Yes, ma’am,” Nanase and I replied unenthusiastically. We reluctantly got back to work.

“Hey, you just started working here, right?” Tatsuya asked me coolly after I’d turned away.

“Hm? Yeah, that’s right,” I replied.

“And you’re already perfectly settled...”

“Oh, well, my parents taught me how to cook before, is all,” I answered with a shrug.

Tatsuya continued to shovel food down his throat and said, “Still, you’re amazing. You really can do anything, Natsuki.” His compliment made me overjoyed.

Then, the door opened with a ring of the bell and another customer came in. Nanase and I walked away from the trio’s table. The café became busy soon after, so Uta and co. headed out.

***

It was almost 11 p.m. when I got home from my shift. I was about to take a bath and then hit the hay, but my phone chimed. I checked it and saw that Hoshimiya had messaged me. I thought for a moment it was in our group chat, but it was a private message.

Hoshimiya Hikari: Is it true you cooked for everyone?!

Oh, right, Hoshimiya couldn’t come today, so she’s been sulking on RINE. Anyway, I should reply to confirm first. Besides, sure, I cooked, but it was just normal restaurant food.

Natsuki: Yeeep

Hoshimiya Hikari: What, no fair! I want to try your cooking too!

Natsuki: I’ll cook whatever you want if you come to the cafe lol

Hoshimiya Hikari: I’m definitely coming next time!

Natsuki: It’s nothing special, don’t expect so much lol

Hoshimiya Hikari: Ehh, liaaar. I saw the picture Uta-chan posted on her story and it looked really tasty you know?

I opened Minsta to check and saw that Uta had posted a picture of her meal. When did she take this? And wow, this is a great picture! It really makes the food look good.

Natsuki: Oh wow, I see it. When the heck did she do this?

Hoshimiya Hikari: I’m hungry now because I looked again

Natsuki: I know right lol maybe I’ll eat a cup ramen or something

Hoshimiya Hikari: Uh, hello, that’s cruel you know?! I’m on a diet right now!

Natsuki: Really? You don’t look like you’d need to

Hoshimiya Hikari: I’m worried about the places you can’t see!

Natsuki: Late night cup ramen’s the best you know?

Though they do make you feel sick... Well, I joked about it but I’m not actually going to eat one. I’ve finally got a build I’m proud of, so I don’t want to gain any fat I can avoid.

Hoshimiya Hikari: Natsuki-kun you’re not allowed to either!

Natsuki: You’re being unreasonable

Hoshimiya Hikari: It’s bad for your health

Natsuki: All right, I guess I’ve got no choice

A few minutes passed with no reply. I’m getting anxious. Did I screw up? Should I have started talking about a different topic? I finally got a RINE message from Hoshimiya, so I want to keep talking for as long as possible. I thought about so much while texting, but she was probably just replying to go with the flow.

After a while longer, I saw that Hoshimiya had finally read my message. She replied, “It’s time for bed! See you tomorrow!” and our conversation ended. I knew she had to go because it was late, but I couldn’t help but feel a little down.