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Chapter 7 - Up and Down

That morning, as soon as she arrived at school, Yui grasped Koyuki's hand tightly.

"Shirogane-san! Thank you very much."

"...Huh?"

Koyuki could only blink at the broad smile.

While she was puzzled, the class president approached her with a beaming smile.

He cut off Koyuki's confusion with a wave of his hand.

"I heard that you solved little sister Yui's problem very well."

"Ah, oh. You mean Yuna-chan."

When they said that, I finally remembered what they meant.

Last weekend, I took care of Yuna-chan, Yui's younger sister, with Naoya.

At that time, I helped Yuna-chan repair her relationship with her best friend.

After settling that matter, we all headed to Naoya's house for dinner. On the way home, we stopped at a store and ate ice cream together, talking nothing but nonsense.

It's a hot and humid summer, and there are a lot of insects, which I don't like.

It was a season that should have been my least favorite, but spending time with Naoya made it an irreplaceable memory for me.

Yui and the class president fell silent and looked at each other when I told them that.

"Um... Did I say something weird...?"

"Oh, no. I don't think you two are intimate at all.”

"Fueee!?"

Yui's words made Koyuki's face turn red.

For some reason, the class president also seemed to suffer by clutching her chest.

"It's so sweet I can't process it... Wait... let me get this straight... this is what you call being in love..."

"No, it's not!"

Koyuki had no choice but to defend herself in confusion.

Oh, it's adorable... Really?!?

It's just the two of them, taking care of the little ones and eating ice cream together in the afternoons.

Koyuki didn't think about that at all.

She thought love was holding hands, feeding each other shaved ice... and so on.....

But judging from the reactions of Yui and her friend, that kind of ordinary things like what she did with Naoya also fall under love.

So... so... so... So it also falls in the category of loving...

At this shocking fact, Koyuki could not help but be shocked with her face turning red.

He felt he had climbed the ladder of maturity without realizing it.

Thinking about it, he was completely oblivious to the ignorant smiles he was getting from the two.

Yui shrugged her shoulders.

"Well, it's not the first time Shirogane-san and Naoya got affectionate. So I'll leave it at that for now."

"What are you talking about, Yui? That's something important to discuss. We need to know more details."

"I will discuss it later. The main issue to deal with now is another one."

"Oh, you mean... about Yuna-chan?"

"Of course!"

Yui took Koyuki's hand and smiled.

"Thank you very much, Shirogane-san. Yuna is very happy."

"But Naoya-kun was the one who took care of her, I didn't do anything..."

"That's not true. You helped her reconcile with her friend, didn't you?"

"Ah, anyone can do it."

I just gave Yuna-chan some encouragement....

Even if it wasn't Koyuki... rather, Naoya could have done it smarter.

But Yui shook her head.

"That's not true. Yuna, you know, she's been a little quiet lately at home. I'm a little worried about her. I asked Naoya to watch her the other day, partly because I thought it might put her in a better mood."

"So that's it..."

"I was surprised that he came home in such a good mood."

Apparently, Yuna reported that Koyuki had helped her.

Yui told him with a smile.

"I think that even if it's nothing to Shirogane-san, it means a lot to Yuna. So, thank you. Yuna is also very grateful for your help, Shirogane-san."

"Umm, yes. You're welcome."

Receiving Yui's sincere gratitude, Koyuki could only nod.

Koyuki was not good at interacting with others.

She is afraid of what others will think of her. So she says things she doesn't like and pushes people away from her. That's why she's always alone.

He never thought he could help someone and receive such a profound thank you.

.... It's all thanks to Naoya-kun...

Thanks to Naoya-kun, I was able to change a little.

Naoya-kun might say, "It's all thanks to your efforts, Koyuki." But, obviously it's also all because I met him.

Koyuki felt a pain in her heart at the realization.

Suddenly, the class president raised her voice as if impressed.

"Shirogane-san is very kind. He sent salt to his rival."

"What do you mean by rival?"

"Yui's sister is crazy about Sasahara-kun, isn't she?"

"Well, he said he gave up Naoya for good."

"Hey, really?"

"Mn, right. 'Koyuki-chan is the only right person for Naoya Onii-chan!" she said.”

Yui imitated her sister's tone of voice and said to the class president, who looked astonished.

By the way, on the way home, Yuna-chan said to me, "I wish you happiness, Koyuki-chan! I've given up on Naoya Onii-chan..."

"So she really gave up on him...despite being so close to Naoya-kun."

"I think his affection for Shirogane-san already surpasses his affection for Naoya..."

"Oh! So, that means you managed to beat your rival. Well, that's what I meant before by 'rival', Shirogane-san."

"But, I don't think I beat him..."

Koyuki could only laugh at the class president, who was smiling enthusiastically.

In any case, it seemed to be true that the number of rivals watching Naoya had reduced and she was relieved to hear it.

Although Naoya always said that in his heart was "My feelings are only for Koyuki"....

Yeah, I guess it's better not to have a rival in love... No matter how many hearts I have, it seems like it won't be enough....

Koyuki was both nervous and envious of Yuna, who was able to show her affection directly.

How happy he would be if he could honestly tell her how much he liked Naoya as Yuna.

... But perhaps it is still too early.

Remembering Yuna's behavior, Koyuki shook her head.

She hugged him tightly and kissed Naoya's cheek.

There was no way Koyuki could do something so daring. It was impossible without a little more experience.

Koyuki remained thoughtful and Yui smiled to continue their conversation.

"By the way, Yuna has a message for you. 'Come to my house next time,' she told me."

"Ah. Mn, if you don't mind I'd like to go visit her."

"Oh, of course! Shirogane-san will always be welcome," Yui said with a big smile.

But then, he seemed to think of something and suddenly put his hand on her shoulder.

"Oh, yes. Can I call you 'Koyuki-chan' too?"

"Ah, okay. Huh, wait? What did you just say?"

Koyuki was surprised at the unexpected request.

Yui, on the other hand, didn't care.

"Because Yuna called you that, isn't it unfair that I, as her Big Sister, can't speak to you informally?"

"Well, that's true, but..."

"Well, isn't it? You can talk to me like that too."

"Aa, ughh..."

Koyuki was embarrassed.

It was the first time she had called a friend by name since the last time she had spoken to her best friend in elementary school.

Moreover, her heart was pierced by the gaze of Yui, who was looking at her expectantly.

In the past, Koyuki would probably say something like "Hah, you're too arrogant to casually call a beautiful girl like me by her first name" to hide her embarrassment. Even if he didn't say much, he would have run away.

However, Koyuki put a lot of strength into his legs.

No, don't run, Koyuki...! You must be brave!

That was the most important thing Naoya taught him.

Mustering all the courage she could muster, Koyuki let out her voice.

Yet, in reality, she was still dejected and her voice sounded like that of a mosquito.

"Yu... i-chan.”

"Yes? One more time!"

"Y-Yui-chan...!"

"Yapp! Well done, Koyuki-chan!"

"Uh, yes...?"

Koyuki was stunned when Yui patted her head and had no choice but to do as she was told. However, inside her chest, there was a strong feeling.

How marvelous...! To be called by one's first name...! I did it, I did it...!

Making friends was a milestone for Koyuki.

Koyuki was excited, but suddenly something came to her mind....

Huh? The class president is not her usual self. She's usually very aggressive...

Meanwhile, Koyuki's head was still being caressed by Yui.

..........

The class president simply watched the scene without interrupting.

His eyes, peering over his glasses, were slightly agitated.

She seems... envious.

Koyuki did not understand at all why the class president looked like that.

Koyuki was worried about it.

Then, Koyuki tried to talk to her.

"And the class president?"

"Heeee?"

"You want to do the same to Koyuki-chan too, don't you?" exclaimed Yui.

"Ah, Err..."

For a moment, the class president held back and fretted.

But then he smiled, shaking his head.

"I think it's too early to get to that stage. I'll probably try to approach you first."

"Well..."

I tried my best to be brave, but the class president politely turned me down.

Yui looked at Koyuki, who looked a little disappointed and said.

"What's wrong with you, aren't you and Koyuki-chan already pretty close?"

"Even though you said that. But I have to be prepared for this kind of thing."

"Hmm... I see..."

"I think I understand the class president's feelings a little bit...."

It also took Koyuki a long time to get used to calling Naoya "Naoya-kun."

So I can sympathize with that sentiment.

But, the class president is not a shy person like me, is she?

She calls Yui by her first name and is open and friendly with the other students in the class. I think her communication skills are quite good.

This made his behavior even more suspicious to Koyuki.

Koyuki was still thinking and confused, but the class president smiled.

I no longer saw the dark expression on the class president's face as before.

"So from now on, please be nicer to me. Someday I'll call you by your first name, too."

"Ummm... yes. I see."

Koyuki had no choice but to nod.

As they talked, Yui made a cheerful statement.

"So, to deepen our friendship, let's stop somewhere on the way home today, okay? I'll invite Koyuki-chan and the class president!"

"What?! No, you don't have to invite me..."

"Haha. To be honest, I want to thank you for taking care of my sister. I have money from my mother. So why don't you accept it?"

"Well, if that's the reason, I'll take you up on your offer..."

"Yes, I have your word! And you, class president?"

"I..."

the class president stammered and her gaze went nowhere.

"I'm sure you'll be able to find out more about Koyuki-chan and Naoya's future. Let's talk about the future of the two of them."

"What do you mean by the future... there's nothing special about it."

"Hmm... nothing special. But, you'll be out soon, right?"

"Ugh... well, that..."

Yui said these words indifferently and Koyuki could only remain silent.

One day I will definitely say "I love you" and make Naoya-kun my boyfriend.

That is, of course, my main objective.

Oh, dates... can I do it right?

Even when Yuna was about to snatch Naoya, Koyuki could do nothing.

Even if they were really dating, what could he do?

In fact, it would be easier for her to feel embarrassed and confused. So she could only see a future in which she would continue to run away from Naoya.

Koyuki turned her face away and raised a hand in refusal.

"No, um, I don't want to do that for now..."

"Uh, why?"

"Because I don't think I can for now..."

"Hmmm... Wouldn't it be better to do it sooner instead of constantly thinking about it?"

"Yui-chan, what was it like when you started dating Kouno?"

"...I couldn't even see his face."

"Well, all right!"

Koyuki's face turned and said, "As I expected.”

Even the energetic Yui can be like that.

Then, of course, Koyuki would look worse in the same situation.

"So, until I get used to it, I'm fine with our relationship now..."

"Hmm... if you say that, then fine..."

......

Yui's lips twitched as she said that, but it was as if she couldn't explain it.

The class president also put her hand to her chin in thought. Her thick glasses glittered like in a detective movie.

He looked like he wanted to say something. But in the end, he just gave a soft smile.

"I have committee work to do. So I don't think I can join you for now. I think the three of you can go without me."

"Is that so? Well, next time I'll invite you again."

"I promise. Let's have fun together next time, Shirogane-san."

"Yes, of course!"

Koyuki nodded to the smiling class president.

It must be nice to travel with her...

Such anticipation arose from the bottom of his heart and, at the same time, a resolution appeared in his mind.

Someday, I'll be friends with Iincho-san too... and then I'll call her by her first name!

Imagining the day when he could call her Emika-chan, Koyuki clenched his hands tightly.

* * *

After class.

"Well, Koyuki-chan, which one do you want? Ah, you can order whatever you want."

"Phew... but they all look so good that I can't decide...!"

At a table in the family restaurant, Yui and Koyuki contemplated the menu they would choose.

As we are in the middle of summer, there is a special section in the menu to match the summer season.

Watermelon and melon parfait, mango shaved water, cold ice cream and much more... There were colorful menus lined up and the two were excited about Naoya, who was also there.

"Well, I guess we can take our time deciding."

Naoya watched them and drank his orange juice casually.

There, Koyuki cocked his head anxiously.

"Naoya-kun, are you sure you don't want anything else and just juice? I'm sorry that I seem to be the only one invited..."

"I don't mind. Because this time, it's Koyuki who wants to be invited by Yui."

"Eee, this is as a thank you for that day."

"No, no, I've never received this kind of thanks before."

"Heeee! Really?"

"Hmmm. Naoya and I are neighbors. So it's a win-win," Yui said calmly to Koyuki's amazement.

Naoya, who lives alone, is sometimes invited to Yui's house for dinner and receives many vegetables from the fields. In return, he takes care of some of her chores.

It was the first time he had been invited to a family restaurant like this one.

Yui looked Koyuki in the face with a mischievous smile.

"Because this time is special. Besides Naoya, I have to sincerely thank Koyuki-chan!"

"In other words, they just used me as bait," Naoya said.

"Eeeh... I'm sorry to have bothered you, Yui."

"That's not true. I wanted to thank you for Yuna."

Koyuki raised an eyebrow apologetically to Yui. But, Yui told her firmly.

She seemed very concerned about Yuna and Eris.

Yui took Koyuki's hand and smiled.

"I really want you to come visit us next time. I'll wait for you with Yuna."

"Umm, yes!" replied Koyuki, with a beaming face.

I'm happy for you Koyuki....

Naoya squinted at the smile and drank the rest of the juice.

Before I knew it, they were calling each other by different names and the distance between them seemed to get much shorter.

Compared to the previous days when she first talked to Yui, Koyuki's expression was softer and it seemed that Naoya no longer had to worry about her.

So today, he decided to play a supporting role accompanying Koyuki. I'm willing to wait for them to take pictures of the food here and share them with others.

By the way, the class president did not come because she had business to attend to.

She must have guessed that it would be a girls-only night and ran away. Naoya secretly decided to do the same next time.

"Hey, you two. Hurry up and pick or we'll be home late."

"Well, even if you say so. But the menus here all look delicious. Oh yeah, you know, the special pancakes..."

"Pancakes...! Sounds amazing."

"Haha... they have to make up their minds before sunset, huh?"

Naoya chuckled slyly when Koyuki looked at him.

It will take more time...

Preparing for a long battle, he got up to refill his drink.

As this family restaurant is near Otsuki High School, there are several groups of students in the restaurant besides Naoya and the two girls. However, as it is still early summer, there are many empty seats.

I figured if we stayed a little longer, I wouldn't have to worry about the waiter's eyes on us.

When I think about it. It was like the tolling of a bell, signaling the end of a quiet moment.

"Oh, it's her, it's Yui-chan!"

"Eeeeh?"

Suddenly, a bright, cheerful voice rang out.

The three looked up at the same time and saw a girl standing next to them.

She wore the same Otsuki High School uniform as Koyuki and the others. But she was a fashionable girl who stood out from the others.

Her long hair is dyed blonde and she wears an ornament on the side of her head. She wears a lot of make-up, false eyelashes and colored contact lenses. Her nails are fashionably decorated and her school uniform is open at the chest.

Everywhere you look, he seems to have a whole arsenal of ammunition.

She is a girl full of confidence and joy.

"Hnm... Aaa!"

At first, Yui was a little surprised, but soon came to her senses and let out a cheerful voice.

"Huh? What are you doing here? I thought you were busy."

"Hehehehe. Suddenly I have some free time..."

Yui and the girl smiled at each other.

Their familiarity is a fact that they know each other well.

Seeing the two of them, Koyuki secretly talked to Naoya.

"Ohh...what a striking girl. I wonder if there are people like that in our school."

"Eeeh? What are you talking about, Koyuki? I know her."

"Eeeh...? But, I don't think I've ever seen her..."

Koyuki cocked her head to one side, confused.

Perhaps after realizing Koyuki's concern, the girl waved her hand politely.

"Hi, I'm Mika, nice to meet you, Shirogane-chan!"

"Aa... how do you know my name..."

"Because you're so famous. You're 'Poison-Tongue Snow White,' aren't you?"

"Ahaha... it's true that people sometimes call me that. But, I don't like being called that... well..."

"What? So, you're not the 'toxic' type then? But, I want to hear what you have to say normally. You can tell me anything... come on..."

"Eeeeeeeee...... Ugh, even if you suddenly ask for something like that...."

Someone suddenly appeared in front of her, also a striking girl

Faced with a character she didn't know very well, Koyuki felt embarrassed and depressed.

And it is certainly interesting.

Mika looked up and showed her shiny fingertips covered in decoration and laughed to herself.

"Hahaha, Shirogane-chan is so serious, it's funny!"

After laughing for a moment, he wiped tears from the corners of his eyes and held out his right hand.

He continued his conversation with a friendly smile.

"By the way, nice to meet you, Shirogane-chan!"

"Well, um, nice to meet you..."

Koyuki took his hand.

From the expression on Koyuki's face, it was obvious he was thinking "Gal, how scary!"

Seeing Koyuki and Mika like this, Yui's head filled with curiosity.

"Hey, what do you mean?"

"Yes. It's interesting, isn't it?"

"Hahaha. then I'll go with you, Mika!"

"Thank you, Yui!"

Yui and Mika smiled at each other.

[TN: The conversation between Yui and Mika may be confusing, but if you read on you will understand].

Naoya was the only one who thought much about the environment.

... Should I shut up?

Although he had a lot to say, he was a little hesitant to participate in the girls' conversations. Although he is often said to lack sensitivity due to his bluntness, he can occasionally see through situations and conditions.

As he stared blankly at the three girls, Koyuki approached him from the side and seemed to panic.

"Gal's are scary...! Naoya-kun, what should I do...?"

"Hmm... I think you should act casual."

"What do you mean by normal?"

"Like when we always talk in class?"

"No, I can't do that! I have no idea how to talk to her..."

Koyuki merely shook his head from side to side with a pale face.

However, Mika was not bothered by this situation and spoke kindly to him.

"Hey, hey, that sounds interesting - can you join us?"

"I don't care. Do you, Koyuki?"

"Fuehh? Hmm..."

At Yui's question, Koyuki looked at Mika with a bit of hesitation.

To be honest, she still hadn't gotten used to Mika. However, she tried to lower her voice and asked Yui in a whispering tone.

"(Is Mika-san your friend Yui-chan?)"

"Yeah, sure. She's my friend and she's a good girl."

"Well, then... maybe I'd like to be friends with her too..."

Mika's face lit up when he heard that.

"Thank you! Oh, does she care too?" [TN: Mika is referring to Naoya.]

"Oh, sure. I'm just an extra chaperone at the girls' party, can I get you something to drink?"

"Sure! I want a soda."

"Wait... I'll go with Naoya-kun!"

Koyuki got up from his seat and followed Naoya to the drink bar.

Naoya secretly smiled at Koyuki's slightly tense expression.

"You did your best, Koyuki. That took a lot of courage, didn't it?"

"No, it's just about chatting together."

Koyuki looked at Naoya blankly and tried to be strong.

But, soon the bravado lost its effect and his eyebrows lowered.

"But, I'm not sure I can get along with her... she's not the kind of person I talk to much and I'm worried about... causing trouble for Yui..."

"Hmm, I think he likes you, Koyuki. So I guess it's all good."

"Really? Well, if Naoya-kun said that..."

Koyuki poured soda into the glass as she reflected on it.

Meanwhile, he seemed to have made up his mind. He clenched his fist.

He seemed about to enter the hall of the Demon King's Palace.

"If so, I will do my best. I will make more friends."

"Yes, yes. That's a good spirit."

Naoya nodded his head.

Well, I'll keep an eye out as I've always done before....

It was a girls' party. If Koyuki wanted it, then there would be no place for Naoya to be there in the first place.

But as soon as he returned to the table, he knew his plans would soon fall apart.

Mika smiled and looked at Naoya right in front of her.

Naoya could do nothing but blink.

"What is it?"

"It's nothing. Yui told me you're Sasahara-kun."

"Yes, but why...?"

"By the way, are you Shirogane-chan's boyfriend?"

"N-Boyfriend?"

He said the word "boyfriend" casually, which made Koyuki's face turn red and she let out a sound of surprise.

I was trying to say something, but...

"I don't think I would accept him as my boyfriend. If I had a weirdo like him as my boyfriend, I'm sure I'd have problems. But, well, you know... that..."

The arrogant words gradually faded away.

Finally, Koyuki lowered his head and said in a very low voice like a gnat.

"Um, for now... he's not my boyfriend."

"Oh. You've done very well."

Although she had spoken very harshly before, she was now much more sincere than before.

Naoya was quite pleased with this event.

Unfortunately, this fun did not last long.

Mika's smile deepened and he looked Naoya in the face.

"That means you're single, right, Sasahara-kun?"

"Hmm, let's say yes."

"Exactly! You know, you're my type."

"Huh...?"

"Yes...?"

Naoya looked at the ceiling and shouted, while Koyuki raised his face.

Mika's eyes narrowed and she looked at Naoya as if assessing him. His eyes, which wore large contact lenses, reminded me of those of a predator hunting its prey.

"And his face isn't bad either. Besides, he's the only male who can get along with "poison-tongued Snow White." That's more interesting! So I'll give it a try."

"Wait a minute."

Interrupting Mika's conversation, Naoya sighed.

"I'm glad you're praising me. But may I say one thing first?"

"What?"

Mika leaned forward curiously.

While placing his hand on Koyuki's shoulder, Naoya made a statement to Mika.

"My feelings are only for this girl. So, I'm sorry. I reject your plan."

"Eee..."

Mika was instantly speechless, but soon after burst out laughing.

"Pft, ahaha... It's like what Yui said. it's like a magic trick and it happened in an instant! It's so much fun!"

He pounded the table and rolled over laughing with his hands on his stomach.

Koyuki, for his part, merely blinked as if he didn't understand what he was talking about.

"Mika-san, what did you want to tell him?"

"Hmm? Ah, something like "Well, then, how about you try dating me?" That's what I want to say to him."

"What...?"

Koyuki's shout echoed throughout the family restaurant and the surrounding customers turned their heads.

However, Koyuki, who was cornered, did not notice.

He shakes his head from side to side and raises his voice.

"No, no, no! No way!"

"Ehhh! But, you guys aren't dating yet, are you?”

"Phew...! Well, you're right. But..."

"So, do you have the right to say no?"

"Phew, that...!"

Koyuki choked at Mika's words.

It seemed that he had already admitted that what Mika said was true.

However, it seemed that he could not simply retreat, he held Naoya's arm tightly and looked desperately at his opponent with teary eyes.

"Still, no way! I won't give you Naoya-kun!"

"Fufu, if you say so. I might be more tempted to take it away from you."

"Grrrr... I won't give up Naoya-kun!"

"Um, Koyuki. Calm down first. Huh?"

Naoya gently reassured Koyuki, who squeezed him tightly.

The way she clung to me made me squeeze her chest against my arm. To be honest, although it was a nice feeling, Koyuki's mental health came first.

"I told you my feelings are only for you, okay, didn't you hear me?"

"I know! But...."

Koyuki clung to him and looked at Mika with still teary eyes.

Then, he put more strength into his arms and turned his face towards Naoya.

"It's different with Yuna-chan. This time she's a girl my age and she's cute too, there's no way I'm not saying anything! Besides, Sakuya once told me that normal guys like flashy girls, but them!"

"You heard 90% of what Sakuya-chan said."

Sakuya actually added more unnecessary knowledge to Koyuki.

Although I argued it while sighing, Koyuki's face still showed panic, as if it was the end of the world.

"But... but... but... Naoya-kun is so sweet, so cool, so caring... no wonder other girls like him so much..."

While sharply looking at Mika, Koyuki honestly said everything he thought about Naoya and it was clear on his face "I don't think I'm able to get along with you!". Yes, it seems that everything can be conveyed to Mika.

Seeing Koyuki in a state of alert and panic, Yui's eyebrows furrowed slightly.

He turned his head with a critical look and poked Mika's arm next to him.

"Hey, Mika. You're overdoing it."

"Uh... It's just a light greeting, right?"

"Oh, you're going to confess your feelings to a man just as a greeting?"

"Well..."

Mika smiled wryly at Koyuki's exclamation.

"Look, yeah... If you're slow, other girls might steal him from you, you know? If you really have feelings for someone. You have to fight to get that person. This world is now in the era of the war of love."

"Ugh... that's a reasonable argument..."

"Oi, you've never been in a relationship, have you?"

"Right now I'm being selective. It's hard to find one that suits my tastes."

Mika shrugged her shoulders and smiled sarcastically at Yui, who was teasing her.

Then he looked at Naoya and licked his tongue.

"I think I'm attracted to you, Sasahara-kun, really? I'll do it to you whenever you want, as much as you want and as erotic as you want.

"Haha, I refuse. Here, Koyuki. Eat some dessert and improve your mood."

"Uhhh..."

He smiled at Mika and handed the menu to Koyuki.

Koyuki looked disappointed, but in the end she chose the parfait with lots of watermelon and cantaloupe.

Meanwhile, Yui also ordered pancakes and pudding a la mode and soon the orders arrived for all three of them. The atmosphere became more relaxed as their dessert arrived.

Koyuki's eyes lit up as she saw the parfait at eye level.

"Woah...! Very big."

"Hey.... Here the dessert looks amazing and the taste is not to be missed. come, come, eat!"

"Thank you, Yui! Bon appetit."

Koyuki dipped the spoon into the melon ice cream and ate it.

Then his face lit up. He seemed to like it very much. He continued to eat ice cream, cookies and pieces of fruit in a good mood.

I could feel the fog of worry I felt before fading away.

Unlike Koyuki, Mika ate his pudding in small pieces and said.

"Chieh, I got rejected huh? Well, candy is good for broken-hearted people...."

"Well, give up. No one can interfere with Naoya and Koyuki-chan's relationship."

"Even though you said that. But, you're not dating yet, are you? In that case, I guess I still have a chance to take advantage of you."

"Mnnnn!"

Koyuki raised his eyebrows.

Mika's comment, which could be considered provocative, must have caught him off guard.

"...Naoya-kun..."

"Yes, 'Ahh'..."

Without even saying any of this, I knew instantly what I wanted to do.

Koyuki quickly extended his spoon towards Naoya and Naoya devoured it.

The melon ice cream melts well and has a nice texture. The watermelon added as an extra is also very sweet.

After savoring the sweetness, Naoya was deeply moved.

I've been getting this kind of thing a lot lately. Shaved ice in the pool, porridge when I was taking care of myself....

I am used to indirect kisses.

Koyuki snorted and looked at Mika after seeing Naoya satisfied with his snack.

"Heh.... See? I'll go with the flow."

"Am I a pet or something?"

I could only laugh at that.

Mika looked at him blankly. She didn't think Koyuki would go this far.

However, as if he had regained his composure, he smiled and said:

"Oh, that sounds interesting! I want to try it too. Here you go, Sasahara-kun. ahhh!"

"Fuee?"

"No, no, don't tell me 'Ahh'."

Mika took a spoonful of her own pudding and offered it to Naoya.

Naoya could only laugh at the unexpected bribe.

Koyuki, who should have been proud of her victory, panicked.

"Isn't it impolite to feed a boy you just met?"

"Eee? It's a common thing, isn't it?"

"It was an indirect kiss, you know! What's so ordinary!"

"Hm, you've never done it with your friends? So, it's a common thing."

"Same in a different sense! It's embarrassing, you know!

"Then you're as shameless as I am, Shirogane-chan."

"No, I'm not! I am... different anyway!"

Koyuki's face turned red and he shook his head.

He could not give a decent reason.

Still, he stared at Mika and averted his gaze to the spoon in his hand.

"Hmph! I have to do something! It's Naoya 'Ahh'!"

"Nom!"

Koyuki immediately took a bite of the pudding Naoya was given.

After chewing and swallowing it with a mysterious expression on his face, he smiled fearlessly.

"Hmph. Next time you do the same thing again, I'll eat it for you, I've already sealed that move!"

"Hmmm... it's like this. Mmm-hmm~"

"Ehh, Wh-what, why are you laughing?"

He should have lost by now, but Mika smiled slyly with narrowed eyes.

He deliberately put his hand to his forehead and said shyly.

"In that case, it means that Shirogane-chan and I kissed indirectly."

"Hyahhhh!"

Koyuki froze, covering her mouth.

Meanwhile, Mika placed the spoon back in front of Naoya.

"Then, I want to do that with Sasahara-kun too. Well, here it is. ahhhh!"

"No, thank you."

Naoya firmly rejected the bribe.

"I'm sorry. But I'm not interested in 'Ahh' from girls other than Koyuki."

"You're really stubborn huh. Even if Shirogane-chan is your true love, it's okay to play with other girls for a while, right?"

"No!"

It was not Naoya, but Koyuki who responded firmly to the question.

"Yes, yes. Mika gets carried away very quickly."

"MUGUUH!"

Yui cut her own pancake into large pieces and stuffed them into Mika's mouth.

Mika muttered with a mouthful of pancake.

"But we always do the same thing, don't we? Playing and such."

"Yes, let's do it."

"Playing?"

"Aa, I remember this."

As Naoya cocked his head to the side in question, Yui rummaged through the contents of his bag.

What he pulled out from inside was a box the size of the palm of his hand. When the lid was opened, there were dozens of playing cards inside.

"It's a card game like any other, but each card has instructions. The person who is the winner chooses a card at random and the loser will be punished by carrying out the instructions written on the card..."

"We often play with friends. But I've heard it's actually played on blind dates."

"I see. I didn't know there were so many types of card games today."

I borrowed a card from Yui and flipped through it.

Numbers, spades and other symbols are written in the corners, and an order is clearly written in the center.

The second and first place finishers eat each other's dessert, and so on.

Koyuki watched with interest and sighed.

"That's why they're so close - it makes sense."

"Eeeeh. Not really."

"I don't mean that as a compliment."

Koyuki looked at Mika, who scratched her head and looked embarrassed.

However, the person was unfazed by his cold stare and spoke without preamble.

"Since we're here, why don't the four of us play something? Like play Bubba-doke or something..." [TN: or it's TL's fault there's a card game called that].

"Hmmm... I bet you'll try to hit on Naoya-kun again, won't you? You won't instigate me with that cheap trick."

"Shirogane-chan, why don't you try to win? In this game, the winner gets special privileges."

"Privilege? What's wrong?"

"You can play in place of the punished person. And you know..."

Mika took the deck from Naoya, pulled out a card and turned it over.

In it is written, "Embrace the person who comes second."

"If I come last and try to hug Sasahara-kun, who comes second, with this card... if Shirogane-chan becomes the winner, you can take away my right to play the punishment. " So you can hug Sasahara-kun instead of me."

"Oh, I see... hug it out..."

Koyuki looked at Naoya and thought about it with a slight smile on his face.

He seems to be very interested.

"But to do that, I definitely need to win the game...."

"Hahaha... Well, Shirogane-chan..."

Mika's smile deepened as he wiggled the handle.

"You don't have the confidence to beat me. In that case, what can I do?"

"What, of course not!"

Too easy to understand. Koyuki accepted it directly.

She raised her eyes and pointed her index finger at him.

"Just watch! I'll beat you to a pulp without mercy! Let's get started."

"Yosh! That's the way it should be!"

Koyuki, really fell into his trap.......

Naoya had no choice but to hold his forehead and think about what had happened earlier.

It seemed that Koyuki had forgotten the other day, when she lost to Yuna in a rock-paper-scissors match for the role of Wife in the cottage game. Naoya tried to calm Koyuki down and change her mind, but the flame of fighting spirit in her eyes indicated that she would not change her decision.

"Don't stop me, Naoya-kun! There are some battles a woman can't lose in."

"Yes, that's right! After all, it's just for fun."

After shuffling the cards, Mika raised his fist toward Koyuki.

"Then let's play... don't try to give in, Shirogane!"

"Hah, without you saying that - I know!

"I can see what will happen next, Naoya."

"What a coincidence, Yui. Of course, so am I."

Yui and Naoya could do nothing but stare at each other in silence as sparks flew between them.

The result...

"Yey~! I came in last place."

"Ughhhh... third place...!"

Mika held his wild card to the end and Koyuki lost in the middle.

Thus, the right to the penalty game went to Mika. Naoya stroked his chin as if realizing something and together with Koyuki could only grit his teeth in frustration.

"That's right. In this card game, if you have a target you want to attack, you have to be in the first position or hold the last position."

"Well, if you're aiming for a penalty, that's what I mean. If you put it on at a party, I'm sure it will be a lot of fun and bring us all closer together."

"But, we already have a partner. So it doesn't matter."

"Hey..."

"By the way, Naoya-kun, you're not too strong..."

While having a warm conversation with Yui, Koyuki approached me with tears in her eyes.

"I sort of expected him to take first place. But... how did he get it so easily?"

"Hmm yes, it's because I can read the opponent's cards easily."

"Uh... can you do that kind of magic trick? In that case, how about this?"

"Eight diamonds."

"Haaaaaaaa!?"

When Naoya guessed the card shown by Koyuki with a bull's-eye, the shouts were heard again.

By the way, not only can I read it, but I can also predict who will draw which card.

Therefore, it is possible to anticipate the cards that will come to me and discard them one by one.

"So, I'm the one who will be punished. Well... this letter!"

Mika picks a card from the deck.

The instructions written on it are...

"You've hit the jackpot! Play the Pocky game with your favorite couple."

"Waa, pocky game?" [TN: If you're a regular reader of the romantic comedy genre, you'll be familiar with this game. But for those who don't know, the pocky game will put 2 people to eat 1 pocky stick on each end. So it is obvious that if the 2 people have reached the center point, what will happen. ]

Koyuki screamed as if she was going to faint.

She's used to indirect kisses, but she's not ready to see anything more than that.

As Koyuki trembled, Mika pointed at Naoya with the Pocky he had brought.

"Of course, I'll choose Sasahara-kun! Now, please be nice to me!"

"Ahhhhhhhhhh..."

Koyuki's face turned red and blue, and he looked at Naoya and Mika in turn.

The third position is in the center. So, according to the rules of the game, I had no right to interrupt. However, I still had to say something, but I didn't know what to say to stop them.

Koyuki could clearly feel the impasse she was in. She was on the verge of tears.

Seeing that, Naoya smiled and extended his palm towards Mika.

"In that case, I'll skip. The first position can refuse to play a penalty game, right?"

"Well, those are the rules, but... I'm not in the mood for this. Don't you want to take this rare opportunity to play pocky with this beautiful girl?"

Mika leaned forward with a pocky in his mouth.

She casually advances her body so that her cleavage is fully visible. Her sensual expression, her hot breath and the way she looks at you will certainly trigger an attraction for a man.

It was clear that he was experienced enough to use all his ammunition without hesitation.

Mika invited him to join her.

"Maybe we can go the harem route? Are you really satisfied with just one girl?"

"Unfortunately, I'm not interested in anyone but Koyuki."

"Naoya-kun..."

Naoya's direct response brought tears to Koyuki's eyes.

I was relieved to see that he seemed to understand that I meant it.

The word "harem" certainly sounds interesting. However, if it makes the girl I love sad, I don't want a harem.

"Anyway, I think it's time to stop this..."

"How boring. I wouldn't mind being the second girlfriend, you know?"

"No! Of course not."

Waving his hand in the air, Naoya let out a small sigh.

There was another reason why I could not accept this invitation.

It was because she was Koyuki's friend.

"If we go any further, Koyuki won't like it, Class President..."

"Eeeeh?"

"...Yes?"

Mika froze and Koyuki raised his eyebrows suspiciously.

"Naoya-kun... what did you just say?"

"Hmm? I said, 'Class president.'"

"...Mika, are you Naoya's class president...?"

"No, she's in Koyuki's class. You know, the girl with glasses and braids."

"Class president?"

Koyuki looked at Mika with wide eyes.

I couldn't stand that look...

"...Chieh, I've been found out huh?"

Mika's lips twitched and he shook his head.

Then the golden wig fell off and black hair appeared under the wig.

It was like a magical girl transformation. Koyuki's mouth dropped open.

Seeing this, Yui smiled wryly.

"I told you. Naoya would have found out if you had worn that disguise."

"I only talked to Sasahara-kun once, you know. So how did you know it was me?"

"Even if you say so, your body shape, posture and voice are the same."

"Ehhh... You're like facial recognition software... I think I've changed a lot with this makeup."

Mika, the class president, took out her mirror and stroked her face as she looked at herself.

Her makeup was perfect and her voice calmer than when we spoke with her before.

It would not be easy to recognize her unless the person was very close to her. But of course, that wouldn't work with Naoya.

While we were talking about this, Koyuki, who had been frozen, opened her mouth.

"So, are you really the class president? You really look like a different person..."

"...Of course it's me. See, I thought you could tell with these glasses."

"Now that's a class president!"

As she was wearing black-rimmed glasses with a wry smile on her face, Koyuki finally recognized her.

With her black hair braided and school uniform properly donned, she quickly transformed into a commonly seen figure at school.

Yui shrugged her shoulders.

"You must be shocked. She was like that when she was in high school. I've only seen her in pictures. But a person can change, can't they?"

"Come to think of it, he said something about 'having changed compared to before' But, I think all that has its limits..."

"I'm sorry for scaring you, Shirogane-san. But... since when did you know it was me, Sasahara-kun?"

"From the first time we met, of course."

Naoya responded flatly.

I am good at remembering people's faces and I have seen her talking to Koyuki many times at school. That's why I recognized her at first sight.

"I know you wanted to surprise Koyuki. So I kept my mouth shut. But, I can't let it go any further... I'm sorry, I've taken away your right to reveal the story."

"Although I see her almost every day. But, I still can't recognize her..."

Koyuki looked very confused.

However, as if he had realized something, he snorted and closed his mouth.

"Wait, if that's what you mean... Class president, you're going after Sasahara-kun!"

"...Not really."

Hearing that, the class president smiled wryly and shook her head.

He sighed, lowered his shoulders and admitted his mistake.

"Shirogane-san said you were hesitant to move forward with her. Then I thought that having a close rival at our age might make you a bit anxious and provoke you. So I tried to cheer her up like this..."

"You mean...this is all an act? To make me feel anxious?"

"Yes... I'm so sorry..."

"Hmm, yes, I appreciate your concern."

It must be true that she was worried about Naoya and Koyuki. Her whole series of actions to play Naoya seemed very serious. That's why Naoya played along with her acting.

Still, I knew there was something I should have said correctly.

Naoya looked directly at the class president and said.

"I'm sorry. But, don't make me do it again. I'll wait until Koyuki is completely sure of her feelings."

"Naoya-kun..."

"...I understand."

The class president let out a chuckle at these words.

He then bowed to both of them.

"I'm really sorry, Shirogane-san and Sasahara-kun. I meddled too much. I did something that could make you hate me..."

"Huh? No, no, no. It's true, I was a little surprised... But, I don't hate you anyway. And don't ever apologize to me again."

Koyuki responded to the class president's attitude with confusion.

But after clearing his throat, he slowly looked up and smiled at her.

"I know you're worried about me, right? If so, it's okay. I forgive you."

"Shirogane-san..."

"But, you can't do that to me again!"

He stuck out his index finger forcefully and pointed at Naoya, who was standing next to him.

"No matter how loyal Naoya-kun is as my servant... He might turn into a wolf if he lets himself be seduced by such a smart and pretty girl! I'm sure even the class president will become his prey, since he's so fierce despite his harmless appearance!"

"Because I know Naoya-kun isn't the type to cheat on his girlfriend. But I can't stand to see him attacked by a girl like that...! I don't want it to happen again." I'm glad you finally understand that I'm only interested in you, Koyuki."

"M-Muu, stop reading people's minds!"

"Ohh! You really are Shirogane-san's personal translator. Yui was right."

"Isn't it? It's fun to watch the two of you."

"Still, this is no show..."

Koyuki mumbled and poked the remaining parfait.

Seeing Koyuki like this, the class president's tense expression faded and she became more relaxed.

"Don't worry. I won't mess with Sasahara-kun anymore. Because you are.... my precious friend, whom I cherish."

"Class president...!"

Koyuki's face lit up.

He squeezed her hand.

"I am so happy! You're the second friend I have after Yui."

"Ehhh that's the first I've heard of it."

"It's good to see you happy, Koyuki."

"Mnm!"

When Naoya smiled, Koyuki also gave him a big smile.

Koyuki told what she wanted to say to the curious class president, while shaking her hand tightly.

"Ever since I got into a fight with a girl I was close with in elementary school...I've never been able to make friends with anyone again. So, I'm glad to hear you say that."

"...I see, yes."

The class president hesitates for a moment and smiles awkwardly.

It was a reaction that looked like his concern for Koyuki's situation.

But, Naoya secretly looked at them.

Huh? Why does the class president seem to have regrets?

Naoya realized that what she was feeling now was regret, bitterness... and those negative feelings towards herself.

However, he has already apologized and reflected on what he did in his previous gak incognito.

... It can't be, can it?

The first thing that comes to mind is a possibility.

But, if true it would be a ridiculous story. While Naoya was pondering alone, Koyuki was quite curious about something and talked to the class president.

[N/C. I get the idea of this too.]

"Why did you dress up in more modest clothes when you entered high school? You're completely different from your old self."

"Huh? Well... I don't really want to stand out in high school..."

The class president's eyes widened and she avoided Koyuki's gaze.

His behavior was clearly suspicious.

Finally, as if he could stand it no longer, he rose from his seat.

"Ah, I'm going to take my makeup off! I'm already halfway through removing my makeup."

"Class president?"

"Are you all right, Iincho-san?"

His foot tripped over the table leg as he rushed out and he fell to the floor.

And he fell flat on his face on the ground. Not only Koyuki, but also Yui was very worried.

"I'm sorry... I'm fine. I really am..."

"Of course not! Uhh, are you really okay?"

Koyuki rushed over and offered her his handkerchief.

She wiped the class president's face and cleaned it.

"I don't think it's bleeding. But, maybe we should cool the wound a bit...?"

"Shirogane-san? What's wrong?"

Then, Koyuki suddenly stopped talking.

He looked at the face of the class president.

He had already wiped his face with a handkerchief, which had noticeably changed his appearance.

She had lost almost all her makeup and it looked like she had lost not only her glasses, but her contact lenses as well. His eyes are long and look cold and sad and his nose is straight and long.

She has ceased to be a bright girl to become a natural beauty.

Seeing this, Yui exclaimed, "Oh, woah!"

"This is the first time I've seen the class president without makeup. She always wears light makeup. But Koyuki-chan, aren't you looking at her too long...?"

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

Yui tilted her head curiously.

Koyuki, however, didn't care and cleared his throat.

With her eyes fixed on the face of the class president, she spoke her name very nervously.

Not with "Class President" or "Mika-san".

Rather, it was a nickname referring to a person important to Koyuki.

"...Chie-chan?"

"Hnhp...........?”

The class president's face became frantic and the next moment she was completely blue.

He hesitated for a moment and then said.

"I'm sorry..."

In a jiffy, she rushed out, grabbed her purse and threw the bill on the table.

"Wait a minute! Are you really Chie-chan? Hey...."

Koyuki shouted behind her, but her footsteps did not stop.

He was out of sight in an instant as if to slam the door of the restaurant.

Koyuki, who had lagged behind, could only look anxiously at the direction in which the class president was running.

Yui blinked at the sudden turn of events.

"Eeeee, what does this mean?"

"Ahhh... as you can imagine, I probably didn't expect this to happen either."

Naoya could only sigh.

It seems that his previous intuition was correct.