Too Many Losing Heroines! - Volume 7 - Chapter 2.1

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Chapter 2: This Person and I Are Actually

Sitting across the table from me, Konuki-sensei took a sip of her coffee from a mug and smiled reassuringly.

"How has Riko-san been lately?"

"She has been lively in the clubroom. Yesterday, she was reading some old club magazines."

I sipped my roasted green tea from my thermos.

...It's been a week since then. Shiratama-san has been coming to the clubroom every day after school.

We make small talk, and she leaves precisely after an hour, but there's still a slight wall between her, Yanami, and Komari. She also helped me pick up my eraser. Twice.

"Having a place at school is good. Keep an eye on her for a while."

"But is the Literature Club the right place for her? Wouldn't it be better if she got along with her classmates?"

"Ara, weren't you and Komari-san like that until recently?"

...Yeah, well, we're still kind of like that.

Konuki-sensei's gaze drifted as if she was recalling something.

"You tend to think school is all there is when you're a kid, but that's just because other worlds feel too far away."

"Other worlds?"

Nodding gently at my parroted question, she explained.

"That's why kids either rebel or give up. I had my fair share of troubles in high school, believe it or not."

"Is that supposed to be a point for me to comment on?"

Konuki-sensei laughed joyfully instead of replying.

In her mind, the memories and emotions of her teenage years must still be vivid and colorful.

What does she see in Shiratama-san, or perhaps what doesn't she see?

In any case, her concern for Shiratama-san is genuine. Well, then, there's one more thing-

After chatting for a while, I casually broached the topic.

"By the way, I wanted to ask about Tanaka-sensei from the Japanese Literature department."

"Ara? What about him? Feel free to ask anything."

"Uh, I want to ask about his character or personality…"

"Tanaka-sensei's character...?"

Konuki-sensei's eyes narrowed slightly. Did I just ask something dangerous?

"No, well, he introduced some events related to the Literature Club the other day, and it got me curious…"

Seemingly understanding my explanation, Konuki-sensei nodded.

"Well, he used to be the advisor for the Literature Club, so he might still feel connected. As for his personality-"

Konuki-sensei looked up at the ceiling as if searching through her memory.

"He's a very sincere person. Specifically, he's so loyal to his partner that he can gracefully turn down advances from other colleagues."

"...Sorry, can we pretend I didn't hear that?"

"Of course, that's a wise decision. Here you go."

Tanaka-sensei's colleague chuckled and offered me a mint tablet from a case.

I reflexively reached out- but quickly withdrew my hand.

"No, I'm good."

Konuki-sensei stood still for a moment, then shrugged in disappointment.

"Wise indeed."

Walking quickly towards the clubroom, I replayed the conversation in my mind.

Was I imagining things, or did Konuki-sensei seem a bit off when I mentioned Tanaka-sensei?

At least I found out he isn't the type to have a one-night stand with a colleague, and his sincerity seems trustworthy.

Even if Shiratama-san and Tanaka-sensei were involved in something inappropriate by some wild chance, it wasn't my place to interfere…

Alright, I need to get to the club room ASAP. It's probably a bit awkward in there right now.

I hurried past the corridor connecting to the west building- and then I stopped.

Right, Konuki-sensei mentioned Tanaka-sensei has a partner…

…………

…Well, I shouldn't get involved. Yep.

I mentally shelved the matter and resumed walking.

Once inside, I realized the atmosphere in the club room wasn't awkward at all.

It's far worse.

Yanami's face looked as pale as a pile of ash. She was utterly burnt out and slumped in her chair.

Komari stood rigidly, facing the wall at close range, listening to music through her headphones. She's in her "words won't reach me" mode, which happens about once every two months.

"Ah, Prez!"

Shiratama-san put her hands on her chest and dashed toward me nervously.

"Uh, what happened here?"

"I'm not really sure either. We were just having a normal conversation, and then..."

I see. Then, no one really knows.

Suppressing my desire to leave, I approach Yanami.

"Uh, Yanami-san, are you okay? Want some sugar water?"

"...I'm fine. I just got a bit emotionally damaged."

Yanami brushed her hair out of her face and weakly shook her head.

To think she could cripple someone as resilient as Yanami…

What on Earth did you do, Riko Shiratama?

"...Well, how about I make some tea for now?"

Yes, when in doubt, make tea. As I started to boil water, Shiratama-san began setting out teacups beside me.

"I'm sorry for not being more considerate. As the kouhai, I should have made the tea first."

"Ahh, it's fine. We don't have strict rules like that here."

Everyone is equal in the Literature Club. But why am I always the one making the tea…?

"...Prez, you're so mature."

"Huh?"

"You're calm and easy to talk to. I thought second-years would be scarier, but I'm relieved you're so approachable."

That's the first time anyone has said that to me. I hope the other two heard that.

I kept an eye on Yanami and Komari as I poured green tea into the cups.

"You'll find people are actually surprisingly kind when you talk to them. So, maybe try chatting with your classmates more?"

"Well, the girls don't like me much, so I end up mostly talking to the boys. Perhaps I'm leaning toward the tomboy side, huh?"

Shiratama-san then stuck out her tongue playfully.

I see. It's understandable why the other girls might dislike her. She's adorably manipulative and makes you want to protect her.

"Tea's ready, everyone."

Shiratama-san announced as she started distributing the tea cups, but the burnt-out Yanami and wall-facing Komari didn't react.

I took my cup, and then Shiratama-san sat next to me.

"You were late today, Prez. Did you go somewhere?"

"Uh, yeah, I went to see Konuki-sensei. She's our club advisor."

"Sayo-san is so beautiful. I kind of look up to her."

I would advise against that. Trust me. It's for the best.

"By the way, Shiratama-san, you knew sensei before, right?"

"Yes. Sayo-san is my older sister's friend, and they've been close for a long time. She used to help me with my studies and took me out sometimes."

…Huh, so she used to hang out with Konuki-sensei. I wonder where she took her.

As I pondered whether to dig deeper, Shiratama-san smiled warmly. This girl is just so soft and fluffy. She's naturally charming…

Smiling along, I suddenly felt a prickling sensation on my cheek.

When I looked, Yanami was glaring at me with an upward gaze.

"...You seem like you're having fun, Nukumizu-kun."

Yeah. Right until you ruined it, woman.

"Uh, Yanami-san, since you seem to be back to normal, can I suggest something?"

"...Suggest?"

Yanami looked up while scratching her head obliviously.

I don't want to explain why, but the gap between her and Shiratama-san is widening for sure.

"Yeah, it's about this weekend-"

I glanced at Komari, who was still glued to the wall with her headphones on.

Talking to her is pointless right now…

I gave her a call.

"Una!?"

Komari fumbled with her phone and answered. I switched mine to speaker mode and placed it on the table. Now she should be able to hear us.

"Alright, let's try this again. How about we all go out this Sunday?"

For a moment, the clubroom fell into a stunned silence.

After a while, Yanami spoke up, looking puzzled.

"Go out? Are we going on a training camp or something?"

"Maybe not a full-blown training camp, but think of it as a relaxed field trip. We could use the experience to brainstorm ideas during a club meeting."

Last summer, the club members grew closer through a training camp- or so it felt. Despite unexpected events, one person was rejected while two found partners, making it a net positive overall.

Following that logic, going out together could strengthen our club's unity.

Shiratama-san was the first to raise her hand.

"That sounds wonderful! I would love to go!"

Glancing at the enthusiastic Shiratama-san, Yanami looked down at her phone with a sullen expression.

"That's too sudden. I have plans too, you know? Yep, I have something to do."

Komari, still facing the wall, nodded in agreement.

…My, my, these girls are so uncooperative. Well, I guess it was indeed too sudden.

"Fine, maybe we can save it for another time-"

Shiratama-san interrupted before I could finish.

"Then it will just be you and me, Prez."

…Huh? Is it just me, or are Yanami and Komari shaking a bit after hearing that?

"This is kind of embarrassing. I wonder what I should wear. Ah, we need to decide where to go first."

"Uh, just the two of us?"

Shiratama-san suddenly looked surprised and lowered her eyes in a melancholy manner.

"...It would be a bother for you, wouldn't it? I'm sorry, I got a little excited thinking I could go out with you."

"No, I don't mind at all…"

Compared to someone who would endlessly snack or someone who would make me wait for two hours because she wanted to read, you sound pretty okay as long as you don't commit any crimes.

Shiratama-san's eyes sparkled as she looked up.

"Really? Then, I have a place I would like to go-"

"...I'll go too."

Yanami muttered grumpily.

"Eh, but didn't you have plans, Yanami-san?"

"Did I? I don't remember saying that."

Huh, was I mistaken?

Lately, I've been automatically ignoring Yanami's words. It looks like I should pay more attention…

"It's the three of us on Sunday, then."

"W-Well, I'm f-free as well, so I-I'll go."

Komari came to the table out of nowhere and raised her hand timidly.

"But, Komari, I thought you had something to do?"

"I-I just got them done."

When did she manage that? I was impressed by Komari's efficiency while Yanami folded her arms, deep in thought.

"We're going somewhere, right? What should we have for lunch?"

There are other things we should decide first, like the destination.

"Right, Shiratama-san, didn't you mention a place you wanted to go earlier?"

Prompted by my question, Shiratama-san looked around at us and then spoke up.

"I want to go to the AEON Mall in Toyokawa."

"That place, huh…"

It's a large shopping mall in the neighboring city. It's relatively new, and I haven't been there yet.

It's about a 20-minute train ride from Toyohashi Station to the nearest station to the mall, making it a convenient distance.

Well, what do the two veteran members think then? Yanami nodded and gave a thumbs-up.

"Good choice, Shiratama-chan. There are plenty of lunch options there."

Yanami seems to be quite enthusiastic and dead set on having lunch.

"I-I want to check out the b-bookstore there."

Komari added, excitedly counting the money in her wallet, and then she plopped her head down in disappointment.

"Alright then, everyone. Keep your schedules clear. I'll share the details in the group LINE chat."

Wait, I have Shiratama-san's phone number, but she's not in our group chat yet.

Shiratama-san offered her phone as I wondered what to do.

"Would it be alright if we exchanged LINE contacts, Prez?"

"Eh? Ah, yeah, of course-"

-I sense hostility. For some reason, Yanami and Komari are giving me a death glare.

…This stare. It's the protective gaze of girls ready to defend a new member from a senpai who might be overstepping his bounds.

I'm probably not far off from the truth.

"Right, I still have to invite you to the Literature Club's group! Alright, I sent the invite! Please join!"

I displayed an overly enthusiastic show of innocence. Such skills are necessary for self-preservation in today's world.

Shiratama-san hugged her phone joyfully once she got in.

"This is the first time I've exchanged LINE contacts since entering school. You're my first, Prez!"

The thirst for blood from Yanami and Komari intensified. You girls know it's not my fault, right…?

I anxiously averted my eyes from the veteran members and found myself looking into Shiratama-san's round, puppy-like eyes.

"Though I am inexperienced, I look forward to our time together, Prez."

"Uh, sure. Likewise."

I forced a stiff smile, feeling a bit uneasy.

...Is this girl saying these things on purpose?

On a sunny Sunday, the four club members, both new and old, stood in AEON Mall Toyokawa.

I found myself in the middle of the central walkway, gazing up at the immense space.

The entire walkway is a three-story atrium, with tenants lined up along the sides. It's essentially a three-story shopping arcade.

It's my first time at a place like this, and it is…huge.

Beside me, Komari was also looking up at the atrium, her mouth slightly agape.

"...Ueh, i-it's big."

Yeah, it's big. That's all we can really say when facing something this overwhelming.

Standing there with Komari, both of us agape, Yanami puffed out her chest with a smug expression.

"Alright, let me show you how to enjoy this mall as someone who's been here before."

"You?"

I said reflexively, and Yanami stared at me sharply.

"You got a problem, the guy who tried to get on the Iida Line instead of the Meitetsu?"

They are at the same gate, girl. Just as I wanted to retort her-

"I would love to hear Yanami-senpai's tips!"

Shiratama-san, dressed in a floral two-tone dress, quickly jumped in to support Yanami.

Yanami nodded in satisfaction.

"Shiratama-chan, you have potential. To fully enjoy the mall-"

"Yes! How should we enjoy it?"

With the three of us paying close attention, Yanami spoke confidently.

"First, we should sit down and have some tea."

"Isn't that a bit soon?"

I couldn't help but interject, and Yanami shrugged with a sigh.

"Listen, just walking through this kind of mall takes a lot of time. Plus, by the time you finish one round, you'll have forgotten the beginning, so you end up starting a second round without realizing it. It's a trap."

"Uh, isn't it a good thing if you can go through it twice with a fresh perspective?"

"No, no, what if you eat something in the beginning and then find something even better in the latter half? Both your allowance and your stomach have their limits. So we need to sit down, have some tea, and plan our strategy."

While allowances might be a concern, Yanami's appetite isn't something we need to worry about. I can vouch for that.

"Okay, got it. So, are we going to find a cafe or something?"

"There's a street over there that sells drinks and sweets. Come on, let's go."

Led by Yanami, we arrived at a section with a variety of takeout sweets and cafe options.

There are stands selling lemonade, ice cream, cream puffs, and chocolates.

Yanami's eyes gleamed with excitement. Alright, general quarters-

After securing a table in the corner, I leaned back in my chair.

"...Why is choosing a drink so exhausting?"

To cut a long story short, being with Yanami was a mistake. The fact that even Komari and Shiratama-san faded into the background shows they've already figured out Yanami's ways…

Yanami sat across from me as I sipped my iced roasted green tea.

"Hey, you found a nice spot."

"I camped it for so long, okay?"

"Then you deserve praise. Well done."

Yanami placed a green drink on the table.

The bottom of the cup is filled with small pieces of warabi mochi, topped with a sweet matcha base, and finished with a dollop of matcha soft serve.

"...You got something pretty intense."

"Yeah, it's a matcha warabi mochi cream smoothie. I'm on a diet, so I just got a drink."

She said this while sucking up the warabi mochi with a thick straw.

"But isn't that pretty high in calories?"

"Nukumizu-kun, this uses Nishio matcha, and it's a smoothie."

"Uh-huh."

Slurp, slurp. Yanami sucked up the warabi mochi.

…………?

"Eh, hold on, that's it? That's your explanation?"

Yanami gave me a triumphant look.

"Nukumizu-kun, do you even know what the original meaning of diet is?"

"Eh? It means losing weight, right?"

"Wrong. It originally meant 'daily meals'. So I've stopped getting caught up in temporary fluctuations in numbers."

"So you just gave up?"

"I didn't give up!"

I see. Nothing wrong with being persistent.

"Doesn't 'daily meals' mean being careful of what you eat every day?"

"Well, dieting is more of a conceptual thing, you know? It's a matter of mindset."

"Okay?"

She's spouting nonsense again. I switched my brain to do not disturb mode.

"Dieting ultimately comes down to imagery. According to the latest diet theories, the will to lose weight reduces calories. Matcha smoothie- look, it's full of elements that seem healthy, right? So there's no reason drinking this shouldn't help me lose weight."

Is this what dieting has come down to these days? A superpower battle?

"Then adding a salad rice cracker would make it perfect."

"Ah, you're getting it, Nukumizu-kun!"

Yanami smirked smugly, sipping her matcha soft serve. Incidentally, the "salad" in salad rice crackers refers to the salad oil used in them.

Having learned the truth about dieting, I really hoped someone would take over dealing with Yanami soon.

I looked around, and it wasn't long before I spotted Komari and Shiratama-san.

They seemed to be caught in the growing crowd of shoppers, aimlessly wandering in circles.

It looks like Komari can't survive in Tokyo either. Noted.

"Sorry to keep you two waiting!"

Shiratama-san and Komari returned after having been rescued by Yanami.

They each held matcha soft serves. Shiratama-san's even had shiratama toppings- intentional or just coincidence? [TL: Mochi balls.]

"In the end, we chose the same shop as you two. We got caught in a line and then got lost after buying them."

With her usual cute gesture, Shiratama-san smiled and plopped down across from me.

Komari sat next to her, and I spread out the mall map on the table.

"-So, where should we start?"

Yanami peered at the map with a serious expression.

"Hey, I saw some fruit sandwiches earlier. We could also do a ramen tasting at the food court, and the teppan spaghetti at Ciao is tempting. But it's before lunch, so..." [TL: A spaghetti chain only found in Toyohashi.]

"Are you planning to eat all that separately from lunch?"

Komari switched her brain to do not disturb mode and ate her matcha serve while nodding robotically.

Shiratama-san, on the other hand, had a smile that was halfway between polite and puzzled, unsure if Yanami was joking or serious.

Sorry, but this woman is dead serious.

Realizing that I was the only one who could steer this situation, I quickly finished my iced roasted green tea.

"Uh, how about we start with some window shopping? Since we're here, we could look for inspiration for stories, walk around, and chat."

The primary goal of this outing was for the club members to bond, especially for the new and old members to get to know each other better, after all.

Yanami nodded enthusiastically at my suggestion.

"In that case, there's a meat store I recommend. The display case lined with meat is quite a sight."

I don't think that's what window shopping means.

Shiratama-san clapped her hands together in front of her chest.

"How about we look at some clothes first? Yanami-senpai, your blouse is really lovely, and I would like your help picking out some outfits."

"Eh? Really? I did splurge a bit on this. It's nice to see that some people appreciate it!"

For some reason, Yanami shot me a sidelong glare. Komari also took an indirect hit, by the way.

It looks like we have to go with it. I stood up hastily.

"Alright, let's get going!"

Komari looked up at me with a sharp gaze.

"L-Let me finish eating f-first."

"Sorry, I'm not good at walking and eating."

...Right. Of course.

I nodded quietly and sat back down.

Window shopping: enjoying the sight of store displays without buying anything.

Even if the term "shopping" seems a bit off when no purchases are made, the three Tsuwabuki girls are unfazed. They are buzzing with excitement as they admire the stylish clothes.

"Komari-chan, this would look great on you! Why don't you try it on?"

"It will look super cute on you, senpai!"

"Ueh!? U-Uh…"

Correction. Komari is buzzing with extreme discomfort.

She hastily broke away just before they could drag her to the fitting room.

"I-I'm already wearing c-clothes! I-I don't need to try t-them on!"

You would have to be naked to buy clothes with that logic.

...But still, it's kind of fun watching girls chatter and laugh from a safe distance.

Maybe I should consider participating in the Literature Club remotely from now on.

While I was lost in thought, Yanami detached from the others and approached me.

"Nukumizu-kun, are you having fun?"

"Yeah, surprisingly. Are those two going to be okay?"

"She's pretty friendly, so there's no need to worry. Shiratama-chan's a good girl."

Shiratama-san is busy holding up clothes against Komari, who seems to be trying to escape.

Those two might actually make a good pair. Though Komari's dead-eyed look is a bit concerning.

"Yanami-san, I thought you didn't like Shiratama-san."

"Do I look like the kind of girl who bullies kouhais?"

No comment on that one.

"...Uh, well, she complimented your clothes. Maybe you two have similar tastes?"

Yanami shrugged lightly at my attempt to change the topic.

"That's what we call social lubricant. You can give it a try, too, Nukumizu-kun."

"Eh, you want me to compliment your fashion?"

Yanami nodded and did a twirl in front of me.

She's wearing a light brown, flowy…blouse.

And some kind of white…pants? Or a skirt…? It's a pretty loose bottom, anyway.

"Your clothes look pretty colorful, but at the same time-"

"Oh, starting from color, huh?"

Yeah, I am. I continued observing Yanami.

"...Overall, I think it's stylish, but aren't the sleeves on that blouse a bit short?"

"It's three-quarter sleeves..."

…Three-quarters? What's with that odd number?

"Ah, yeah, right, those exist. But it just looks a bit chilly to me."

Yanami sighed deeply, clearly exasperated.

"Look, if you're going to complain about being hot or cold, just give up on fashion. That's what the experts say, so it has to be correct. Please remember that."

"Yeah, yeah, understood."

I nodded obediently, filing this nugget of wisdom away in my mental Yanami folder. It's helpful to keep things organized for future decluttering. Komari and Shiratama-san soon started walking again, and we followed suit.

"By the way, didn't you say we should invite Yakishio too?"

"She said she has a match coming up and needs to practice. Why? Are you worried about her?"

"Well, she's my friend, after all. Speaking of which, Yanami-san, you haven't eaten much today."

I attempted to change the subject, and Yanami gave me a somewhat melancholic look.

"Nukumizu-kun, this may come as a surprise to you, but…"

Could it be that she's on doctor's orders to cut back?

As I tensed, Yanami turned to me with a mature expression.

"I realized something from your reaction earlier. Perhaps I've been- eating a bit too much lately."

"Wait, are you expecting my reaction?"

"No, I'm not. Look, we're second-years now, right? I thought I should try to carry myself like an adult woman for the sake of the underclassmen who look up to me."

I see. That's a good mindset. All we need now is a first-year student who actually admires Yanami.

Perhaps sensing my inner thoughts, Yanami gave me a sidelong glare.

"That's why I've only had tea today. Nukumizu-kun, are you underestimating my femininity?"

That calorie-packed dessert counts as tea to her? I guess I did underestimate her in a way.

"H-Hey, what are you s-slackers doing?"

Komari, having escaped from Shiratama-san, stumbled towards us.

"We were discussing the latest fashion and girl power. Komari, are you done shopping for clothes?"

Komari shook her head vigorously, and Shiratama-san peeked out from behind.

"Komari-senpai, are you not interested in clothes? If there's something else you would like to see, please let us know."

"Ueh, uh, well…"

Komari fumbled with her phone. She's at her limit.

"Hey, Komari, didn't you say there was somewhere you wanted to go?"

Komari's eyes lit up at my hint.

"Y-Yes! I-I want books!"

Komari pulled out a card. A 5,000-yen bookstore gift card.

"Ah, so you're ready for some serious book shopping, huh?"

Komari nodded happily, holding up two fingers.

"I've broken the s-seal on my secret c-card. I'm buying t-two books."

She's not using it all at once. Very practical and thoughtful. She will make a great wife someday.

Just as she started to lead the way, a group of young people approached from the front, and she hid behind me in fear.

...Some things never change, even in our second year.

Feeling somewhat reassured, I started walking towards the escalator.

Welcome to Toyokawado Bookstore AEON Mall Toyokawa. The name is a mouthful, but the main store is actually in Toyohashi.

It's the largest bookstore in the area, and its cafe uses local ingredients. No wonder Yanami is acting strangely.

"Hey, Yanami-san, it's not lunchtime yet."

"I know that. A sophisticated lady doesn't drool, you know."

She said, wiping her mouth with a handkerchief. You're drooling, okay?

Well, I'm also quite excited.

Komari has already disappeared, and Shiratama-san is browsing the new releases section.

Well, I wonder where I should start-

"But seriously, why come all the way here to buy books? You can get them anywhere, right?"

I shrugged at her comment. Sigh, you're an amateur, Yanami.

"Yanami-san, bookstores aren't all the same. Each one arranges its books differently."

"...So, the cafe menu is different as well?"

Did you not hear me say the word "books" or what?

"Listen, a bookstore is a place for us to encounter books. The store's concept, the layout of the shelves, and the selection are all ways we interact with the store staff."

"I get it! It's like being pen pals with the store staff, right?"

You don't get it at all. How can I even explain this…?

"Okay, think of it this way. Even if you hear the same piece at different classical concerts, the experience varies with different conductors and orchestras. The kind of reading experience each bookstore offers is unique."

"But all you buy are manga and light novels."

...Well, that's true. But the selection varies significantly between stores.

It seems like Yanami's sponge-like brain has absorbed the information somewhat.

Seeing her pick up a gourmet magazine with interest, I decided to explore the store myself.

I initially planned to head straight to the manga and light novel section, but given what I told Yanami, I decided to check out other sections first…

In the fiction section, I found Shiratama-san alone, intently staring at the shelves of paperback books.

Approaching quietly, I saw she was focused on historical novels.

This is not my area of expertise, but it reminded me of period dramas.

Noticing my presence, she quickly retracted her hand, which had been reaching for a book.

"Prez? How long have you been there?"

"Uh, I just got here."

I stood next to her, looking at the shelves.

"I'm surprised. I didn't know you read historical novels."

"I started because of my grandfather, but I've gotten really into them recently."

She picked up a book titled <The Retired Gentleman of the Leaky Tenement> and read the synopsis on the back before putting it back on the shelf.

"...Prez, you invited me out today to be considerate, didn't you?"

"...Uh, well, I just thought it'd be nice if everyone got to know each other better."

Hesitantly, Shiratama-san continued.

"Yanami-senpai seems to dislike me. And Komari-senpai is scared of me."

"Well, I don't think that's true."

Yanami is just jealous of your youth and cuteness, and Komari is skittish around everyone.

Perhaps taking my words as consolation, Shiratama-san brightened up with a smile.

"Sorry for bringing it up. I'll do my best to get along with them today."

"Yeah, but don't push yourself too hard."

Leaving Shiratama-san, I wandered away, mentally kicking myself.

Things seemed to be going well, but relationships are complicated.

This might be tricky. I guess I can win Yanami over with food and Komari with some doujinshi…

…Eh? Isn't this surprisingly simple? The solution is right in front of me.

I'll just give Yanami some snacks.

"Nukumizu-kun! Shiratama-chan is actually really nice! I misunderstood her!"

The imaginary dialogue in my head is perfect. I didn't even need to hear it in real life.

Now, what about Komari? I found her in the practical books section.

Komari stood frozen, holding a thick hardcover book.

"What's with this book?"

Still looking at the book, Komari glanced at me with just her eyes.

"U-Uh, it's a book about old W-Western dresses and clothes. I would l-love to have it as a r-reference, but..."

She showed me the back of the book, where the price was clearly beyond what her bookstore gift card could cover.

With a sigh, she placed the book back on the shelf and looked up at me suspiciously.

"W-What do you want?"

"You've been really into <After Hours at Work> that aired this Spring, right?"

"A-Ah, yeah, that's p-peak."

A sly, evil smile spread across Komari's face.

"Then tell me your favorite pairing. I bet you ship Takaya-san as the bottom-"

"Una!?"

Thud. Komari's elbow found its mark in my solar plexus.

"D-Don't guess my s-ships!"

Why is she angry about me guessing correctly? I don't get it.

Well, at least I figured out her tastes. Time to buy some tribute from the anime shop…

After the bookstore, surprisingly, Yanami suggested the game arcade.

We ended up playing a VR zombie shooting game. I knew of it but never thought I would play it myself, especially with four people.

Yanami stretched and chatted with Komari after a round.

"Komari-chan, you're really good at shooting games. Any tips?"

"F-Focus on your i-intent to kill."

Komari pushed her bangs back with a smug look.

"I see. Killing intent, huh?"

"Y-Yeah, killing intent."

…Why are you two looking at me?

Feeling unnerved, I averted my gaze and met Shiratama-san's eyes.

"My legs feel wobbly. That was so intense."

She said, pressing her index fingers to her temples and smiling. So calculating, yet so cute.

"Komari-chan, I saw an air hockey table over there. Want to have a match?"

"I-I'm stronger than you think, o-okay?"

Really? I would love to see Komari excel at air hockey…

As I started to follow them, Shiratama-san gently tugged on my sleeve.

"Hey, I'm feeling a bit tired. Would you be willing to come with me to rest for a bit?"

"Sure, no problem. Let me just let Yanami-san and Komari know-"

I looked over and saw that Yanami and Komari were already disappearing into the crowd.

As I hesitated about whether to follow them, Shiratama-san pulled on my sleeve a bit more insistently.

"...I should have been clearer."

"Huh?"

Turning to face her, I found her large eyes much closer than I expected.

Her next whispered words made the noise of the arcade fade away.

"-Let's sneak away for a bit, just the two of us."

Before us is an array of luxurious jewelry pieces encased in glass displays.

As we looked at them together, Shiratama-san quietly exclaimed in admiration.

"Wow, these are beautiful. Is that necklace made of amethyst…?"

"Uh, yeah, that could be it."

She led me to a jewelry shop in the same mall.

Feeling somewhat overwhelmed by the upscale atmosphere, I noticed Shiratama-san looking a bit apologetic.

"Sorry for bringing you here so suddenly. You're not really interested in this, are you?"

"No, it's not that. I wouldn't have come here on my own, so I'm actually enjoying it."

"Really? You're so kind, Prez."

With that, she smiled at me warmly.

-Just so you know, I didn't agree to Shiratama-san's suggestion with any ulterior motives. I just wanted to help her with the struggles she was having with Yanami and Komari. Really.

As I repeated this to myself, I stole a glance at Shiratama-san.

She smiled softly as she gazed at the jewelry through the glass.

Her petite face, with its mix of youthful innocence and mature beauty, is framed by her shoulder-length hair.

She's about the same height as Yanami, but her slender body looks delicate as if it might break at a touch.

She's slim, but unlike Komari, she has a subtle yet distinctly feminine figure, even through her clothes.

Her face and long limbs remind me of Yakishio, while her fair, finely textured skin brings Shikiya-san to mind.

...Yeah, this girl is adorable.

No shit Yanami feels jealous. Even though that girl looks attractive, there are just parts about her that prevent unreserved admiration.

"What's your birthstone, Prez?"

"Eh? I'm a December baby, so-"

I looked at the birthstone chart for like the fourth time, and then my phone buzzed in my pocket.

…I bet my ass it's Yanami.

I reached for my pocket, but Shiratama-san placed her hand over mine.

"Huh!?"

"Can I monopolize your time for a bit longer, Prez?"

"Well, if you're okay with me, anytime..."

"Then please stay with me a little while longer."

She gently nudged my shoulder with hers and led me deeper into the store.

"Your birthstone is tanzanite, representing intelligence and composure. That really suits you."

"Uh, yeah, people often say that."

I replied while gulping nervously.

Am I getting a romance event?

Could it be that my long-awaited popular phase is finally kicking in?

…No way. Get your shit together, Nukumizu.

There's no way a cute kouhai like this would approach someone as unremarkable as me.

This kind of scenario is reserved for outgoing, handsome guys.

So, this situation must be part of Shiratama-san's own story-

"Let's see. What's my birthstone then?"

"...Shiratama-san, do you have something you want to talk to me about?"

Her smile wavered slightly.

But in the next moment, that crack is covered by an even more charming and calculating smile.

"I'm okay. I've already talked about it with you earlier, Prez."

"If it's not about that, are you waiting for someone?"

This time, her smiling facade completely fell apart.

The color drained from Shiratama-san's face, leaving her looking increasingly anxious.

"Uh, well…"

"You've been glancing around a lot while looking at the jewelry, almost as if you're expecting someone. Are you waiting for someone to come here?"

"That's-"

Her lips parted as if searching for words, then closed again.

Her legs trembled slightly as if she were trying to suppress the urge to flee.

"Sorry, I'm not accusing you of anything. I just want to help. If you tell me what's going on, maybe I can assist you."

"............"

She clutched her chest with both hands and lowered her head, remaining silent.

Just as I was about to speak again to break the uneasy silence-

"-Riko, is that you?"

A clear voice rang out.

Riko Shiratama's head snapped up, as if a switch had been flipped.

Standing before us is a woman in her mid-twenties.

Despite her well-formed features, "cute" was the first word that came to mind. She's a charming lady.

The resemblance is unmistakable.

Riko Shiratama's voice came out as a faint whisper.

"Onee-chan..."

She's Riko Shiratama's older sister.

But what surprised me wasn't just the appearance of Shiratama-san's sister.

Standing beside her in a somewhat protective stance is-

"You're Nukumizu-kun from Class C, right? Why are you with Riko-chan?"

It's Tanaka-sensei, the Japanese Literature teacher from Tsuwabuki High School.

The Shiratama sisters, Tanaka-sensei, and- me, for some reason.

The awkward silence is soon broken by none other than Riko Shiratama herself.

She forcefully grabbed my arm and pulled herself close, clinging to me.

"-I'm going out with this person!"

Huh!? We're dating!? Since when?

I have absolutely no memory of this supposed relationship, but if it's true, everything will fall into place- Shiratama-san pulling me aside, the oddly relaxing time we spent together. Yeah, it's best to go with the flow here.

Shiratama's older sister, who had been frozen in shock by Shiratama-san's revelation, finally found her voice.

"Riko, you have a boyfriend? This is the first time I've heard of it..."

"I'm sorry. You and Tanaka-sensei have been so busy with the wedding preparations that I didn't get a chance to tell you."

She said this with a bright, cheerful smile.

That bright smile must have made it hard for her sister to press further. Still visibly bewildered, Shiratama's older sister turned her gaze to me.

"And you, how long have you been...dating Riko?"

"Uh, well, it's not really about how long. It's more like a Schrödinger's cat situation..."

"Onee-chan, don't ask my boyfriend weird questions."