Volume 4, Chapter 6 – Gamers and Next Level

Volume 4, Chapter 6 – Gamers and Next Level

Translator: your_pingas

Keita Amano

“Tomorrow, I, Keita Amano…decided to challenge a once in a lifetime feat.”

“Eh?”

The first Wednesday of September. 2F classroom, after school. The Game Hobby Club still held its meeting today, and I told everyone that with a serious look when the meeting’s almost over. Uehara-kun, Tendou-san, and Chiaki’s eyes bulged simultaneously.

Also, Aguri-san is absent today. I think she’s meeting her long-time-no-see middle school friends after school. To be honest, for a moment, I felt like “Not showing up at the Hobby Club just because you wanted to play with your friends, how terrible are you!” However, after a while of thinking, this Hobby Club is already kind of playing in the first place. It’s natural to prioritize seeing a friend first.

Hence, even not all members are present, we decided to end the Hobby Club meeting early…But I have a “determination” that I wanted to convey to everyone no matter what. So, I went out of my way to say that.

Uehara-kun swallowed before asking me.

“Uh, Amano? Are you going to…discussing something crucial right now?”

“Yes…you’re right. I have to clear this up no matter what.”

“R-Really…Crap, just when I’m hesitating how I should take my next step, don’t tell me this guy’s cooking up something big…”

Uehara-kun’s mumbling to himself. I tried my best to hear him before nodding and giving him a “Yes.”

“You guessed correctly, Uehara-kun. Tomorrow…I’m going to do something big!”

“Forget about your sharp ears that can hear everyone’s mumbling…Are you for real, Amano?”

“Yes, I’m genuine here.”

I nodded with all my confidence at Uehara-kun’s response. His eyes are losing focus…and Tendou-san seems to have noticed something from our interaction. Then, she freaked out and started to speak.

“Amano-kun, d-don’t tell me it’s the thing we discussed when we’re texting…?”

“Discuss?”

Did I discuss something with Tendou-san recently…To be honest, we more or less talked to each other every day since we started dating. So, I’m not sure what she’s talking about.

After I tilted my head, even Chiaki suddenly freaked out as she asked me.

“D-D-D-D-Don’t tell me, Keita, did you realize something about Mono…?”

“Mono? Ah, does Mono want to do that as well?”

“W-W-Woah, why you’re declaring that both wanted to do that! W-What, wait, just a moment. I-I’m not going to stay silent if you decided to do it with Konoha!”

“Eh? Chiaki’s joining this battle as well? Uh, this is nerve-wracking.”

“W-What do you mean by nerve-wracking! Explain everything! K-Keita…I’ve always…wanted to do that with you…!”

Chiaki’s excited over nothing. Tendou-san’s looking worried, and Uehara-kun gave me a rare, startled look.

I looked around the three people slowly.

Then…, I’ve finally decided to reveal my determination for “tomorrow” the big day!”

“All of you’re correct! Tomorrow…I decided to give it my all and rush to buy Space Ranger 5!”

“What are you talking about!”

All of them stood up, angrily, and yelled at me at the same time.

I froze as I answered.

“What am I talking about…I’m talking about games?”

“I can’t believe you’re talking about games!”

“Eh, how can you guys complain like that? What’s wrong with talking about games in the Game Hobby Club!”

I was shocked at the three’s unreasonable response. The trio looked at each other…and let out a big sigh. Then, everyone sat down helplessly.

“Amano-kun, sometimes I’m wondering whether you’re doing this on purpose.”

“Ah, you’re right, Tendou-san. I get that a lot. Keita’s sometimes a pain in the butt.”

“Him being innocent is making all of this worse, he’s basically a disaster.”

I was murdered relentlessly. W-What did I do, tell me!

“W-What’s happening with the Game Hobby Club! Are you guys picking a fight? Alright, let’s fight! Everyone goes outside with me! Prepare for blood…as we play against each other with Ponjan! [Note: Ponjan/Donjara/Pom Jong, basically a kids version of Mahjong in Japan.]

“You’re still just as gentle as you used to be!”

They seemingly ran out of steam…what’s wrong? You guys shouldn’t underestimate Ponjan, that’s fun. Ponjan’s a big help when there’s a gathering of relatives with little kids.

…Whatever, now’s not the time to discuss how awesome Ponjan is.

I saw that everyone has calmed down. So, I started explaining.

“Uh, tomorrow’s the release day of the newest title of my favourite series, Space Ranger. So, I wanted to say that I’ll dash there to buy it immediately after school…”

“Eh? Just a second.”

“What’s wrong, Chiaki?”

“Space Ranger 5 is indeed released tomorrow. By the way, I wanted to buy that for myself as well…But why do you have to rush there? Keita, didn’t you have a reservation?”

“Well, listen to me.”

I continued as I let out a big sigh.

“Well, I’m usually the type of gamers that’ll go for a reservation whenever I saw a “must buy” famous title like this one. However…I feel like this is an eventful summer, right?”

“Yeah (Yep).”

The three of them agreed with a lamenting look. W-Was it that eventful? Sigh, whatever.

“Thanks to all that, I completely forgot about the reservation. Once I realized, the deadline for both the in-store and online booking has passed….So, the only place left where I can buy it is the game store with new releases on the shelves.”

“Oh…”

It seems like they understood. Tendou-san spoke up first.

“It’s going to be a rush if you’re going after a famous title after school. There’s probably one copy left when you arrived.”

“Yep, that’s why I’m rushing there tomorrow after school at full power. So, I’m reporting to you guys ahead.”

Uehara-kun nodded after he heard what I just said.

“So, you mean that you want none of us to talk to you tomorrow after school, not even a greeting, right?”

“Yep, that’s right. I’m sorry.”

They finally gave me a considerate look.

Chiaki answered with a smile.

“Well, I guess that can’t be helped. I understand. For this time only…as a fellow gamer myself, I’ll wish you luck, Keita.”

“Thanks, Chiaki!”

I’m excited to know that my rival’s cheering me up today. Just as I’m replying Chiaki with a smile, for some reason, Tendou-san hastily interrupted us.

“I-I’ll wish you luck as well! Yes, as your girlfriend, I’ll bless you more than anyone else!”

“Eh? O-Okay, thank you, Tendou-san…”

Even though I really appreciated that…but…how should I put it? Being blessed by your girlfriend with “I hope my boyfriend can get his game!” I feel like…a guy like this’s pretty…Sigh, w-whatever. I’m really a crappy boy anyway. Yep, that can’t be helped.

I scratched my cheeks. Then, Uehara-kun gave me a mischievous grin before speaking.

“You really loved that game, though. The normal, you should be more relaxed even when you forget your reservation.”

“Yeah, you’re right. Like I’ve said before, …this is the only series which meant a lot to me.”

“…I do like that as well…but is this series that attractive?”

Chiaki tilted her head. Now that I’m looking, even Tendou-san and Uehara-kun have the same expression as well.

However, I’m not freaking out at their response. Instead, I nodded with a bit of confidence.

“To me, this is pretty much the “original” game. Uh, even though it’s not the first game that I’ve played. How should I say this… This is probably the first game that “impressed” my heart.”

“Impressed your heart?”

“Yep. Especially the second title in the series, it was based on teenage sci-fi, which is my favourite. Of course, I did play a bunch of wild and famous RPGs before, and I felt that those were indeed notable titles…But this is the one that fits my bill perfectly. I was thrilled with the prologue, my emotions rose and fell accordingly to the middle, and I even cried at the ending. Also, since that game wasn’t crazily popular at the time…This way, I got the feeling that this game belonged exclusively to me.”

“Ah…”

The three of them seem to have made up their mind separately. Although the three people’s eyes are wandering away, they still nodded at me.

I continued shyly.

“I can no longer comment on this series objectively once I had that feeling. Like what Chiaki has said, perhaps this is really not an outstanding game….However, to me, this is probably the most crucial series. Sigh, I can’t believe that I forgot the reservation. What am I doing…”

I let out a big sigh after finishing. But then I yelled with all the determination filled in my body.

“However, I’m definitely not going to compromise with a digital version! So, for this game only, I’m willing to risk my life to buy it!”

…In the end, all three gamers smiled at me mischievously. It looks like they were laughing at my attitude…Crap, the more I think about this, the more I’m embarrassed.

However, Uehara-kun quickly spoke up once I begin to chicken out.

“Woah, how imposing! I guess it can’t be helped, I’ll bless you sincerely.”

“Ah…okay! Thanks, Uehara-kun! Also Tendou-san, and Chiaki! I’ll try my best tomorrow..to payback for all of your blessings!”

I made that declaration with a smile. The three gamers cheered me. “Give it everything you got!”

…………

What’s happening? I was supposed to be depressed when I forgot the reservation of my favourite game. But now…I’m not regretful in the least bit.

“…Ay, it’s great that I get to know everyone in the Game Hobby Club…”

I looked at the three people’s faces as I gave them my appreciation.

At the same time, I’m thrilled with tomorrow’s battle.

Karen Tendou

“Y-You want me to invite Amano-kun to the club again?”

“Yes.”

Nina-senpai stared at the game screen as she answered me with her usual calm tone.

I first put my bag onto the empty seat before sitting down and thinking about what she meant.

“Sigh…I just wanted to show up at the Game Club because the Game Hobby Club’s activity ended…Then, I’m suddenly in a situation like this.”

This topic is quite sensitive to everyone in the club, I didn’t know how to respond right away, so I can’t help but fell silent. However, that’s why the Game Club Room during after school…is somehow making me unbelievably nervous.

Kase-senpai is still calmly racking up his kills in the FPS. Mizumi-kun…is practising a puzzle game with levels that even we can’t comprehend. But they’re clearly listening to the conversation between Nina-senpai and me.

I let out a sigh, Then I decided to delay the conclusion by asking Nina-senpai.

“Uh…why are you suddenly bringing this up now? This isn’t the usual you, senpai.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. After all, if we are comparing with RPGs, Nina-senpai…and Kase-senpai, are people that treat other Game Club members as low-level reserves that should never be put to the main team, right?”

“Hey.”

The two growled at me as if they are protesting the two of them more or less still retained some degree of humanity. However, the two are speaking while combating online and quickly demolishing other pros that don’t convince me at all.

I gave Nina-senpai a suspecting look. Then, she stared at the screen before letting out a lazy “Ahhhh” mumble.

“To say this doesn’t fit my style, I guess you’re right. But…you should have realized this. Kase and I just surprisingly can’t get over him…the incident about Keita Amano.”

“Ah…okay…”

After senpai said that, Mizumi-kun and I stared at each other before smiling bitterly.

She’s right…even though Mizumi-kun and I still interacted with Amano-kun personally, and we have more or less found a compromise with our attitudes towards gaming. However, senpai’s different. To put it simply, …the two seniors wanted to apologize to him. Even so, whether that justifies going to a junior’s classroom and apologize is another question. They didn’t make any sort of serious mishap. This is an awkward situation.

Although I understand how both of them feel…I still have some questions.

“I understood, but why are you bring that up suddenly? Did something happen?”

“It’s not like something happened…it’s just that I had a chance during the summer holiday.”

“Did senpai meet with Amano-kun?”

“No, I met Fake Umehara instead.”

“Fake Umehara?”

“Yep…he’s one of the people that stirred my emotion the most in my entire depressing life.”

“R-Really, I feel that he’s amazing…”

I’m interested in the new character that senpai has mentioned. But I can sense that senpai doesn’t want anyone to investigate anything about that Fake Umehara.

“…Ah, is it about love? Hiya hiya, ho ho, so that’s why.”

I’m really interested in Nina-senpai’s relationships. However, I have to hold my desire back now, let’s bring back the topic.

“What did that Fake Umehara do?”

“I think it’s better to say that guy is a psycho…rather than saying what did he do…”

I can’t believe that guy can make Nina-senpai this irritated, who the hell is this Fake Umehara?

“Anyway, I thought about Keita Amano once again after I talked to that Fake Umehara.”

“Please don’t talk to a psycho, senpai. Also, please don’t associate that guy to my boyfriend!”

I felt like I was treated really disgracefully!

However, Nina-senpai brilliantly ignored my anger as she continued.

“Also, Tendou, weren’t you starting to join the activities in the Game Hobby Club recently?”

“Eh? Ah, t-that’s because…”

“Sigh, I didn’t mean to blame you. If you can accept Amano’s invitation and join their meetings, I think that the reverse can be done as well, right?”

“The reverse…Uh, so you mean that Amano-kun can participate in the Game Hobby Club, and then he can check us out sometime…You want me to tell that to him, senpai?””

“Yes.”

“…Well, perhaps that’s possible…”

I fell silent…Honestly, it’s happy when I’m with Amano-kun in the Game Hobby Club. So even if the stage is on the Game Club, I bet that’ll be happy as well. However…

“…Strange, what’s happening…? Didn’t I wish to be able to stay with Amano-kun forever…But I’m not willing to invite him to the club at all…”

I’m pondering why do I have an unreasonable idea like this. In the end, I can only think of one reason.

“I guess…I’m still affected by…the experience where he brutally rejected me.”

I was quickly rejected by Amano-kun back when I invited him. That scene is a thorn inside my heart.

While we’re way closer than before. With that, I’m confident that we can express our emotions freely and sincerely to each other. This is an entirely different situation than in the past.

However, …even if my mind understands…I can’t still easily erase the memory of being rejected…I’m still scared no matter how. What if he rejected me again…and then…

“What if…it’s just like last time, Amano-kun is putting his hobbies and relationships ahead of me…With that, can I still pretend everything’s fine?”

The situation isn’t the only thing different than last time, this time, it also includes…my feelings for the boy.

“…Tendou?”

After I fell silent, Nina-senpai gave me a weird look before speaking.

I hastily answered. “Ah, yes, that’s fine.” So, Nina-senpai seemed to have interpreted this as “I agree,” so she gave me a warm smile and continued.

“Well then, Tendou, please invite him.”

“Eh? Ah, I didn’t…”

I hope senpai can give me more time to consider…I almost spewed that out. However, suddenly, Mizumi-kun and Kase-senpai spoke up when they’re taking a break.

“Ah, I’ll be pleased if I can play with Amano-kun together!”

“…Hmph, as long as the guy doesn’t interrupt me, I guess it’s okay for me to allow him…”

“………….”

Once I snapped out of him, everyone in the Game Club…is expecting me to invite Amano-kun.

If that’s the case…as the president, there’s only one answer in a situation like this.

“…P-Please leave it to me! This time, I’m certain that I’ll bring him here…as his girlfriend!”

“Oh…”

My body’s accepting the member’s cheers.

“…Girlfriend…ah…”

I looked away from them by staring outside the window.

In early September, where the heat of summer still hasn’t entirely faded, a wave of flickering mirages of the highways faraway Is still visible.

Aguri

“Crap, I was baited into this…”

Wednesday after school, the day where I took a break from the Game Hobby Club.

I…am in a family restaurant, enduring wave after wave of intense regret.

“Honestly…if I knew that this would happen, I would have shown up at the Hobby Club.”

I’m pretending that I’m on my phone with my head facing downwards, and let out a quiet sigh that doesn’t ruin the atmosphere…During this time, one of the two ruffian boys sitting on the opposite side doesn’t seem to understand the emotion that I’m giving off now. He even tried to talk to me in a half-joking tone. “Hey, Aguri beauty.” …To put it simply, I can’t even fake a laugh out at his words.

“What’s up, a guy’s calling you? Don’t tell me it’s your boyfriend?”

“No…”

It’s not like that- I almost answered him on my reflexes. However, I later changed my mind. Ay, wait.

“Let’s just pretend this is the case and go home. Yep, this feels better, let’s get going-“

After I made my decision, I immediately wanted to bring up my proud boyfriend, which is Tasuku. Right away, my middle school classmate that’s sitting next to me, Sarina Sanntou, kicked my legs brutally. To be very honest, I’m really pissed…but then I answered the ruffian boy with a smile.

“It’s not that at all…Ah, I wanted to go to the drink bar…”

I chugged my glassful of lemon tea at once and left the seat as if I’m trying to escape.

…However-

“Ah, wait a minute, Aguri. I’m going with you.”

“Ugh.”

Sarina stood up as well. She wrapped her arms around mine and pretended like we’re a pair of besties. However…

“Crap, she’s going to preach me.”

Sarina obviously wanted to talk to me alone. I felt repulsive as I’m walking towards the drink bar…Just like what I’ve expected, once we arrived at the place where the two guys can’t hear us, she started intimidating me.

“Hey, Aguri, please just chat with Shougenn. Otherwise, I won’t be able to get close with Koutou as well.”

“If that’s the case, you should meet with that Koutou guy alone. Why are you dragging me into this? I’m here because you said you want a gathering with our long-time-no-see classmates…”

I was just thinking why did this gal type classmate Sarina Sanntou was asking me to go since our relationship wasn’t the best…It ended up being like this.

“…Sigh. Even though it’s wrong for me to expect something.”

In reality, this is how Sarina as a girl looks like. To be honest, she’s a normie that pisses other people off. To me, a girl that behaved innocently in middle school, she’s the hardest classmate to deal with.

However, that’s the reason why…Sarina left such an overwhelming impression in my heart, whether positively or negatively.

“I thought this was a chance for us to get along…”

I took a glance at Sarina next to me. She’s still putting up her usual heavy makeup with perfumes. Perhaps it’s because her phoenix-shaped eyes got a pair of eyeliners, she got a powerful stare. A “gal type” female that’s giving off an intimidating aura.

“Sigh…I’m still not used to…interacting with Sarina.”

After a year since graduation from middle school, I initially expected that our impressions for each other would more or less change for a bit. However, that’s clearly not the case. Sarina is still Sarina. I’m still me. Predator and prey.

She pushed me away, forcefully as she seized the drink area before complaining.

“Hmph, how impolite. What do you mean by dragging you into this? This is for your own good.”

“Huh? For me?”

“Yes. You only barely got your appearance together after you entered high school. I’m here to help you to gain experience in dealing with men. You should be thanking me…Shourishi.” [Note: Shourishi, can be roughly translated to Little Aguri.”

“…………”

Sarina brought up my shameful nickname in middle school. I’m already so dumbfounded that I can’t say a single word.

“I bet that she knew how I look like from somewhere, and then she got the idea of “this giddy girl should be a useful bait” before contacting me…I can’t believe she had the nerve to say that.”

I’m so thoroughly pissed off that I’m starting to admire her. Although I feel that I’m already quite capricious on my own, I still can’t beat a person that was born like this.

Even though I knew this is futile, I still tried to protest.

“…But I already got an excellent boyfriend.”

“Hey, really? What a coincidence, the same goes for me. I have a handsome boyfriend with a promising future. Also, they…Koutou and Shougenn have girlfriends of their own as well…so what?”

“…………”

This doesn’t make any sense. Although I slightly feel that I’m a bit of a normie now…these guys are on a whole new level.

I put the cup back to the recycling area when Sarina went back to her seat. Then, I poured some Olle coffee into my cup…as I stared at the bubbles appearing on the burnt down liquid in my cup.

“Sigh…this is perhaps the first time that I feel…so bored at this family restaurant…”

When you look at our seats…there’s a girl that pisses other people off, and two guys that seem to have their brains directly attached to their dicks laughing off loudly towards other customers.

I can’t help but sigh.

“…If I’m coming to the family restaurant, I would prefer to have a sweet time with Tasuku. Or…”

I wanted to chat lazily with Amanocchi. Just like we’re usually…emptying our brains as we talk.

“Sigh, can’t I just sacrifice those three to summon Amanocchi out…?”

This thought appeared on my head. Since I would often visit the Game Hobby Club, my terms are getting a bit towards gaming…However, unbelievably, now I feel like maybe this isn’t so bad.

The Olle coffee was made just as I’m smiling. When I’m staring into the cup, I suddenly remembered the scenery where I opinionatedly explained to Amanocchi what’s interpersonal communication. I can’t help but laugh.

“…Yep, perhaps I should put in more effort. If I wanted to get closer to someone…I have to more or less be tolerant in the beginning. Aguri, that’s what you said to Amanocchi, right?”

I carefully held up the hot cup with the tip of my fingers as I sauntered back to the seat.

So, without even waiting for me to put my cup onto the table, that guy…the ruffian boy called Shougenn leaned forward and tried to talk to me.

“Aguri beauty. I heard that you’re in the Game Hobby Club, are you serious?”

“…Yeah, so what?”

I answered sulkily as I sat down. Then, Sarina kicked my legs again…Sigh.

Shougenn continued with a hippie smile.

“You’re quite amazing…”

“Why?”

“It’s just a bunch of pig-headed, disgusting, and indoor otakus in the Game Hobby Club, anyway, right?”

“…Uh.”

Sorry, Amanocchi, I immediately associated that to you. I-I do not think that you’re pig-headed or disgusting. Y—Yep, that’s real…

Just as I’m sweating out of my guilt, Shougenn continued.

“Those people are just paying attention to you.”

“Huh?”

What is this guy talking about? His imagination is way too ridiculous. Just as I couldn’t be anymore dumbfounded…even that Koutou guy and Sarina went along.

“Ay, that guy must have used Aguri beauty to jerk off.”

“Eww, that’s disgusting… Stop it, Koutou.”

“No, no, no, instead of letting them rutting off over 2D characters like a pig, isn’t that healthier? In this sense, Aguri beauty is really the most charming girl in the otaku club.”

“BAM!”

The table was shaking intensely after a sudden shock. I thought something was wrong…

“Eh, it was me.”

I ended up being the reason. To explain what just happened, …I guess I subconsciously raised my hand and slammed the table before standing up abruptly…How unbelievable.

At the moment, while I’m still confused…I made up my mind quickly in my heart.

Anyway, …I gave the speechless three a gentle smile.

“…………”

Then, just as their face is showing a tinge of relief-

I slowly spoke up with an extremely calm smile.

“Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll be leaving because I’m having way more fun talking to those pig-headed, disgusting, and indoor otakus.”

“Eh?”

“Bye-bye.”

I rolled my eyes at them. Then, I quickly grabbed 1000- no, 500 yen is more than enough, from my pocket. After I slammed the money onto the table, I picked up my bag and began to leave.

In the end, once I got out of the store, of course- Sarina Sanntou caught up to me.

I turned back helplessly, …and the face of the girl in front of me is definitely not something a guy would see.

“Hey, Aguri! What are you doing!”

“What do you mean by what am I doing. I’m just saying my sincere thoughts before going home. That’s how it is.”

“Huh…! T-The boyfriend that you just mentioned, don’t tell me, is that disgusting otaku from the Game Hobby Club?”

“Nope, that’s not the case…”

Although my boyfriend is in the Game Hobby Club as well, they’re not the same person.

“Well then, what’s with that attitude!”

“What attitude?”

“Please…! Why are you going mad over some small insults of a guy that’s not your boyfriend! Unbelievable! I can’t believe that you ruined the mood over a trivial matter like this…!”

“A trivial matter?”

I immediately reacted. Sarina retorted weakly. “W-What’s wrong…” Then, I…stared at Sarina directly before answering her.

“Amanocchi is indeed a disgusting, indoor otaku- But, it’s not trivial when you guys are insulting him.”

“W-What, that’s strange. T-The guy isn’t your boyfriend, right?”

“So what?”

“Wha…but…you…that…”

“What? If you can’t say anything, I’ll leave.”

I turned and walked away. Then, …after a couple steps, a hysterical curse can be heard from my back.

“You didn’t change in the least bit! You’re still that innocent Shourishi in the end!”

I turned back upon hearing that.

Then, …I gave a bright smile to Sarina, the middle school classmate, that I’ll probably never meet again, before speaking.

“Ahaha, that’s the most exciting sentence that I’ve heard today! Thanks, Sarina.”

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Chiaki Hoshinomori

9:30 PM, Wednesday.

In the central window of the giant screen, an 8-bit hero is heading down south along the plains. A few seconds later, he encountered some monsters. The screen switched to a side-view combat mode as he engaged with the three pawns, Lizard Braggart.

I moved the pointer with the controller as I tested the attack, defend, and special abilities command.

“…Weird, this move didn’t change the stats of the character…”

I typed the summary of the error into the notepad, then I continued testing. After a while of work, a door knock was heard from my back.

“Sis, are you free now?”

“Come in. It’s fine.”

I responded without turning my head as I’m still on my controller, the door was opened gently. A few seconds later, Konoha Hoshinomori, my little sister in a pyjama, came next to me.

She saw the unfinished 8-bit RPG playing on the screen and let out a confused “Eh?”

“Sis, what did you start making games again?”

“A while ago. I’m debugging right now.”

“Oh…That’s surprising. I thought you’ll stay low after the incident with Amano-senpai. I didn’t expect you to have made up your mind already.”

After Konoha said that, my heart skipped a beat as I stopped my hand that’s debugging the game. I scratched the tip of my nose before looking up to Konoha at the side. Then, I smiled bitterly at her.

“No, I haven’t made up my mind at all. The situation is already as chaotic as possible.”

“Sis, you’re responsible for half of that. Even I was dragged into this mess.”

“Ugh…S-Sorry. I really appreciated you for readily accepting such a sudden and offensive request.”

“No, I’m not convinced at all. However, when I saw you begging me with everything you got. Of course, the only option for me is… Sigh, whatever. So, why are you making games when you haven’t made up your mind yet?”

“It’s because…I have a pure motive that doesn’t require me to make up my mind.”

“What does that mean?”

Konoha tilted her head to express the confusion from the bottom of her heart and I…smiled at her before answering.

“It’s because I’m hopelessly in love with making games.”

“…That’s why.”

Konoha answered my reply with a warm smile.

I looked back at the screen, and then I moved my mouse…to open the NOBE blog, which wasn’t updated for a while.

“The messages I had with Yama-san on the blog…They were a big part of my motivation for creating games recently. That’s why…I don’t know how I should get along with him right now, so I ended spending less time creating…However…”

I closed the blog and returned to the game screen. Then, I smiled mischievously as I controlled the movement of the hero.

“In the end, that still wasn’t everything. Although it’s just a tiny and weak reason…even so, the most important core of creation can only be stemmed from my heart.”

“…Sis, you’re incredible.”

Konoha gave me an unprecedently warm look. I felt really embarrassed, so I immediately tried to cover it up.

“B-B-But, in other terms, we can see from this point! I’m just a piece of gaming trash in another meaning! Man, I have never put any effort into my studies…I’m really a terrible sister, yes!”

“Uh, about the part of being a terrible sister, please allow me to retain my dissuading words.”

“Ugh…! K-Konoha, if you’re here to prank with such an older sister, please leave immediately! It’s because I’m busy working on a bunch of things! Yes!”

I swung my hand to get her out of here. Then, Konoha yelled. “Hiya, this arrogant sister is scary,” as she dodged my attacks…She doesn’t want to leave at all, so she just stayed here.

“…What do you want, Konoha?”

I stared at her fiercely. Konoha gave me a “Hmm…” as she’s staring blankly into the air.

“…How should I put it…I’m thinking, should I ask what does sis feel once more.”

“How do I feel? About what?”

“Of course.”

During this time, Konoha stared at me thoughtfully.

I swallowed before asking.

“…You mean…Keita?”

Konoha nodded silently…Honestly, I don’t get why she is so serious. But, if I dragged her into this mess, I need to answer this question sincerely.

I turned my seat and face Konoha again…Then, I took a deep breath, and calmly…and sincerely…told her the answer that proves I’m so useless right now.

“I don’t know.”

“…………”

Konoha didn’t say anything right away. Instead, she gave me a harsh glare.

Even so, I still stared back at her to try and not admit defeat…A few seconds later, Konoha let out a sigh before raising the corner of her mouth and gave me an aggressive smile.

“Even though my sister is a dense girl that can’t understand her feelings, I can already see the answer clear as daylight as her little sister. Do you want to hear it?”

“…………”

I can’t help but fell silent. Then, Konoha smiled leisurely before continuing.

“Sis, basically, when you’re requesting me, you’re already-“

“Stop. It’s because my feelings aren’t cheap enough to be expressed by words from other people.”

I answered sharply. Konoha’s eyes bulged right away before smiling like she found this laughable from the bottom of her heart.

“Ahaha, what is this, I still can’t win over my sister. Sigh, I don’t even know if this is clear or not…”

Konoha said this dumbfoundedly while smiling with a gentle look. It wasn’t until now that I realized I was baited by her, so I plopped my head down embarrassingly.

“I-I feel like I should apologize to you, Konoha. Ugh…”

“No, it’s not like that…After all, maybe I should be the one that apologizes to you later.”

“What does that mean?”

“Who knows. Sis, if you’re still procrastinating like this, perhaps you’ll slowly realize how your smart little sister catches up to you this quickly.”

“What? Aren’t you already way better than me in every way? Why do you need to catch up…”

“Sigh, you’re always like this. I feel like all of my spirit was worn out, man.”

This time, Konoha gave me a look that she was dumbfounded from the bottom of her heart. Ugh, my little sister’s view for me is even worse…

Just as I’m depressed, Konoha scratched her head before saying. “Anyway-“ as she brought us back to the topic.

“Sis, I hope that it’s time for you to decide the relationship you want with Amano-senpai.”

“The relationship I want…?”

“Yes. Otherwise, …the problem is already evident when we three met with each other a while ago. I have to act as your identities…NOBE and Mono. My stance’s getting fuzzy as well, I don’t even know whether I should get along with senpai or draw a clear line between us…”

“Hmm.”

“…Sigh, the problems on the internet are always more complicated. I’m not asking you to make up your mind now…But, I think it’s time for you to decide how will the relationship between “Chiaki Hoshinomori” and “Keita Amano” go.”

“Really, …right.”

“…Sis, in the end, do you want to get closer to him? Or do you want to keep your rivalry? Perhaps…”

Konoha paused for a moment before asking me sincerely.

“…How about you just keep your distance with the guy?”

“!”

I can’t help but take a deep breath…Indeed, I’ll feel uncomfortable whenever I see the boy recently…No, I should be honest. I feel pain whenever I see Tendou-san and him laughing with each other. I was surprised…when Konoha sincerely gave me the opinion to keep our distance. It’s because, during this time, …I have more or less decided that this would be the best option subconsciously. However, …I still feel like that’s too…

I was lost in thoughts. Then, Konoha lightened her tone and told me.

“Sigh, I didn’t ask you for a conclusion right now. Instead…I’m sorry for bringing this up suddenly.”

“Eh? Ah, no, that’s okay…”

This is clearly my fault. Konoha quickly backed down.

“…I still can’t tell who’s the older sister…”

She will scold me directly when I deserved it. Still, she would keep it gentle, even making me reconsider and gain experience in the process…Crap, is this something a little sister should do?

After I deeply reconsidered, Konoha switched back entirely to her usual joyous tone and say “Alright,” before leaving the room.

“Well, that’s all. Sis, goodnight.”

Konoha even gave me a smile from the gap of the door before waving at me. I hastily waved back at her and responded.

“Ah, …o-okay. Goodnight, Konoha.”

The door closed with little noise.

“…………”

I was the only one in the gloomy room with the light from the monitor, wrapping around myself…mumbling…and asking myself quietly.

“What…what do I…what do I want…with Keita?”

…I have asked myself this question countless times.

If this is just designing a story that’s based on the lines and actions of the game character’s belief, I should be able to write as much as I wish for without any restrictions.

However, I’m still not clear on how does the character…”Chiaki Hoshinomori” feels.

Tasuku Uehara

First Thursday of September. During the break after the third lesson.

“Eh, but we don’t need to go to the Game Hobby Club today, why can’t we go out alone together today?”

In front of the full window of the multi-purpose hall, Aguri protested to me while pouting cutely.

I told her that I’m sorry while I lowered my head to apologize.

“If I’ve made up my mind, something’s going to go wrong if I don’t act right now.”

“What? You mean preparing for the exam?”

“Uh, it’s not like that…But if we’re talking about determining one’s future, perhaps both shared a similar meaning.”

I explained vaguely. Aguri then said. “Ufufu, …sigh, okay.” After that, she curled up her lips, implying that this is clearly not okay.

…To be honest, I felt terrible for making my girlfriend showing a face like that. Moreover, the real issue is that I’m rejecting Aguri’s invitation because I’m meeting another girl after school. I will be lying if I say I don’t feel guilty. However, I really had to do it this time. Since…

“It’s time for me to take on some concrete actions, as a member of the Hoshinomori Alliance…”

I’ve already made up my mind.

Aguri seemed to have noticed the determination I’m giving off. So, she took a few steps before looking back at me and throwing a bit of a tantrum at me with her tongue out.

“That’s fine. I’ll go to the arcade alone sometimes. I won’t think of you even when I got along with a boy other than you there.”

“Uh…”

I’m a little nervous…Although I can feel that Aguri’s only joking, for some reason, the image of her playing games happily with Amano immediately came to my mind.

“Man. When can I stop this girly paranoia?”

I immediately threw that image away from my mind before giving Aguri a smile.

“That’s lame. Alright, to prevent you from getting along too well with other boys, I’ll show up at the arcade if I can get my stuff done earlier.”

“Really?”

“Yes. But, I can’t really predict how long this will take, so you don’t have to wait for me. I may end up not being able to go depending on the situation.”

“Okay, I understand! Ho ho, but I’ll be expecting you for a bit.”

“Bye!” Aguri said shyly as she went back to her classroom. I watched her with a smile before walking back to 2F.

“But, for real, …what should I do about Hoshinomori?”

I walked along the corridor from the multi-purpose hall to the classroom as I pondered.

“After that, I immediately went on a trip with my family. Then, I hung out with my friends and Aguri and never found the chance to talk to Hoshinomori alone…”

I can always call her or send a message. However, if we’re talking about the relationship between Amano and her, I also hoped that we can chat face to face. But…

“I feel like Hoshinomori is trying to avoid me. Or should I say, she’s acting a bit stiff recently? The same is true when she’s in the Hobby Club, everything seems usual on the surface. Still, I feel like she’s trying to avoid talking to me without leaving any hints…”

I was a bit baffled. Also, aside from that…

“Amano is getting energetic somehow, he suddenly invited Aguri and Tendou into the Hobby Club. Ay, it’s not that strange considering the development and their relationships…However, he being this worked up, and Hoshinomori didn’t reject it at all. Something’s obviously wrong…”

I’m not sure what’s going on behind the scenes, but there’s clearly a plan going on under the table. If that’s the case…I can no longer hesitate about contacting Hoshinomori and keep on delaying.

I clenched my fist and made up my mind as the 2F classroom come into view.

“So, …we don’t have the Game Hobby Club meeting today. Amano even decided that he’ll ignore everyone and charge at his favourite game with everything he got. After school would be a great time where I can contact Hoshinomori freely without any disruption. Even though I felt terrible for Aguri, but I have to prioritize Hoshinomori first for today only.”

Once I walked into the classroom, the bell signalling the end of the break rang throughout the school.

After school. When the assembly before going home is over, Amano dashed out of the classroom like a rabbit.

“I’ll be leaving, Uehara-kun!”

“Oh, good luck.”

Amano and I only greeted each other with our eyes. So, Masaya got close to me and asked as she watched the door where Amano just left.

“W-What is he doing? This Amano guy…I still can’t figure him out.”

“Really? I feel like there’s not a whole lot of people whose emotions can be read so easily like him.”

Masya frowned as if she has a headache at what I just said.

“Really? Sigh…I fell like he’s all worked up. Am I right?”

“Oh, correct. Also, can you tell why is the guy so excited?”

“I don’t know- Ah, wait, I guess it’s about that.”

During this time, Masaya had a light bulb on her head. I guess she realized Amano’s a gamer. Just as I’m expecting that, Masaya…answered with a mischievous grin on her face.

“It’s about his overwhelmingly different girlfriend, Tendou-san’s asking him to go over to her! Eh, am I right?”

“…Ah…”

I can’t help but scratch my face. Well, …to justify for a man running this wholeheartedly, I guess it’s a more concrete answer to say that he’s running for her girlfriend’s sake. The actual situation is not, though.

I felt a bit terrible for Tendou, so I answered Masaya. “Ay, that’s close.” Then, I decided to pack up and leave the classroom as soon as possible. I’m busy as well. I have to catch up with Hoshinomori before she gets home.

I greeted with my classmates as I walked towards the 2A classroom where Hoshinomori is. In the middle, I took a glance at 2C, where Aguri’s in only to find out she’s not there. Perhaps she already left for the arcade?

“…I really wanted to finish this quickly and meet up with her.”

I mumbled as the image of Aguri playing with other guys flashed across my mind.

I walked towards class A at a faster pace.

“So, where’s Hoshinomori…Ah.”

I peaked from the door to look for Hoshinomori. In the end, the first person that I had eye contact with…wasn’t the girl that I’m looking for. Instead, she’s the idol with blonde hair and sapphire eyes.

She immediately greeted me once she saw me. “Uehara-kun.” Then, she somehow left her friends behind and walked towards me…Crap, all the 2A classmates are giving me a “what do you want” look, this is difficult.

“Amano has always endured looks like this…That guy’s incredible.”

I almost broke into tears with such hostility after I was greeted by Tendou. If I was her boyfriend, …I can’t even imagine that.

Just as I’m responding to her with a stiff smile. “Hey, hey.” Tendou came up to me with her usual formal smile.

“You arrived in just the right time, Uehara-kun.”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing big, I just want to discuss something with you.”

I can’t help but tilt my head at her unexpected question.

“Me? You’re not looking for Amano?”

“Yes…that’s why-“

During this time, Tendou took a step towards me. She spoke quietly to prevent anyone from hearing.

“I wanted to talk about Amano-kun…I hope that I can invite him to the Game Club again.”

“Ah…”

This is troublesome…However, that’s the reason why I can understand the girl wanted to discuss this with me.

However, I have my own business. I peeked over Tendou’s head and looked around the 2A classroom.

“I understood…Uh, is Hoshinomori still here?”

“Hoshinomori-san? Yeah, I think she hasn’t gone home yet…”

Tendou said this as she turned back…Then, she spoke to a girl with curled up hair who’s putting her textbooks in her bag slowly at the corner of the classroom.

“Ah, Hoshinomori-san! Uehara-kun’s looking for you.”

“Eh?! Ah…U-Uehara-kun’s looking for me…? …Uwah…”

“?”

Hoshinomori’s somehow started to freak out right away. Tendou and I tilted our heads to express our confusion. She then packed up her belongings…before walking to us stiffly like she’s a robot.

Hoshinomori came up to Tendou and me. She then spoke with her eyes rolling around.

“W-Well, um, about that, I still don’t know how I should reply now. Perhaps, should I say, I’m not prepared to hurt someone? So, if you wanted to talk to me alone, then I…!”

“?”

Tendou and I were baffled since we have no idea what’s she saying. However, …after a moment of quick thinking, I realized what she really meant.

“I knew it, Hoshinomori still hasn’t figured out how she should deal with her feelings for Amano. She didn’t have the consciousness to rob Tendou’s lover away, so this is not the stage for discussing how to go after Amano with me, I guess she meant that.”

Come to think of it, perhaps I’m too rushed. Once I snapped out of it, I realized I’m acting like this just for my own convenience. This is my bad habit.

After I reflected on myself, I beamed Hoshinomori a warm smile to comfort her.

“I understood. Sorry, Hoshinomori. I didn’t mean to urge you to reply…”

“N-No! Don’t say that! I-I think it’s reasonable for Uehara-kun to want to know my feelings, yes! Ah, um…”

A subtle yet strange atmosphere is radiating off between Hoshinomori and me. So, Tendou spoke carefully.

“Uh, I’m not sure what’s going on, but is it alright for me to treat that the business between you two has come to an end?”

“Y-Yeah. I should say it ended unexpectedly…”

“Well then, can I discuss with you about inviting Amano-kun to the Game Club?”

“Eh? You’re inviting Keita to the Game Club again?”

Hoshinomori froze at Tendou’s words. Tendou looked at her reaction before smiling bitterly. “Yeah.”

“It ended up this way after our talk in the club…Ah, Hoshinomori, it would be great if you can join the discussion as well, what do you think?”

“Eh? Me? Sure…”

Hoshinomori answered as she glanced at me…This situation is way off from what I’ve expected, so I can’t help but scratch my head.

“…Sigh, if I can’t talk to Hoshinomori about her relationships, I guess it can’t be helped. Moreover, I’m quite interested in what’s happening over in the Game Club…”

I replied both of them with a nod…During this time, I realized everyone in the 2A classroom is staring at me with daggers in their eyes. Of course, we’re talking about a handsome boy discussing something secretly with two cute girls that can represent our school.

I beamed both of them a worn-out smile as I spoke.

“Uh, should we talk about this as we go off in the main street?”

To escape these people. More importantly, to meet up with Aguri quickly as I discuss with Tendou. This is the suggestion I made.

After the two quickly accepted, we immediately got moving.

“So that’s what happened, Nina-senpai and the Game Club pushed you for this…”

On the road towards the main street, I can’t help but mumble after hearing the summary as we’re walking along with the rural scenery.

So, Tendou tilted her head and asked after she saw my reaction.

“Eh? Uehara-kun, do you know Nina-senpai, or is there a relationship going on?”

“Hmm? Why are you asking this…Ah, it’s because I’m calling her Nina-senpai?”

Indeed, I should call her Oiso-senpai if we’ve never met before.

Hoshinomori’s listening as well. So, I explained it simply.

“No, I just had the chance to talk to her during the summer holiday.”

“…Oh…”

The girls are distancing themselves away from me.

“Hey…W-Why are you two staring at me like I’m a prick! F-First and foremost, I didn’t try to strike up a conversation with her! I just enjoyed an exciting match with her…”

After I explained, …Tendou and Hoshinomori somehow stopped walking with a blush on their faces.

The two were scared with me as they yelled.

“You enjoyed an exciting match with her?”

“Uh, what’s with the weird emphasis! It’s not like what you’ve thought! I didn’t mean anything about enjoying a match with her at night! I’m just talking about fighting games!”

“…Fighting games…?”

“Hey, why are you two seemingly trying to look for an erotic metaphor for the word fighting games! What happened to my credibility in your hearts?”

What the hell is this? Why did my image suddenly turn into that of a player? W-Well, I did more or less try to be smooth and slick…! But with that only, on top of never cheated anyone, I feel like this is an unreasonable treatment.

I coughed to clear my throat as I continued.

“So, Tendou, what are you trying to discuss with us? Upon hearing that, I feel like you can directly bring this up with Amano and let the matter ends there…”

“Ah, I’m curious about that as well.”

Hoshinomori has the same question. After Tendou gave us a weak smile, she hesitated for a bit before asking us while trembling.

“No…Although this is embarrassing, I’m scared if I brought this up to the boy directly…”

“Scared?”

Hoshinomori and I were surprised at this unexpected word coming out from Tendou.

Tendou nodded as she continued.

“Uh, didn’t he rejected me when I invited him to the club in the past? Also...how should I put it…It’s like he brutally broke up with me…Perhaps I should say when gaming and I were put onto the balance in his heart, I ended up losing…”

“…………”

Hoshinomori and I fell silent since we don’t know what to say.

Tendou was startled at our reactions. She immediately tried to smooth things over.

“N-No, now I understand Amano’s gaming style more than in the past. Honestly, I’m mentally prepared that there’s a 90% chance of rejection. It’s just that, for some reason…”

Tendou lowered her head slightly as she mumbled desolately.

“For some reason, I’m afraid that he’ll reject me…more than me in the past…”

“…………”

Hoshinomori and I can’t help but look at each other…To be honest, Hoshinomori and I immediately understood why Tendou’s getting more afraid to be rejected by Amano than in the past.

“…Tendou…she really love Amano…”

That’s because she loves him way more than in the past. That’s why his words weighted heavier. If he confessed his love, she’d be more delighted…On the other hand, now, if she has to hear his rejection, that would be really painful.

Tendou continued.

“When we were dating a while ago, …I tried to casually invite Amano-kun when we’re chatting. Even though he said, “please forgive me” before kindly turning me down…However, I was really anxious when I heard him say that. That’s why…”

“…That’s why you’re afraid to hear Amano’s answer, right?”

Tendou nodded at what I said…We just walked silently for a while.

The sunlight is scorching my skin. The summer still hasn’t winded down yet, I looked to the ground and saw a dried carcass of a cicada. Suddenly, a chilly wind swept past us.

Unexpectedly, …Hoshinomori was the first one to break the silence.

“…I think that should be fine.”

“?”

Tendou and I didn’t hear what Hoshinomori said clearly as we looked at her. However, for some reason, Hoshinomori didn’t look at us. Instead, she repeated once more as she stared off into the distance.

“I think that should be fine. You should be glad about that. If the boy refused to join the Game Club.”

“Eh?”

Although we heard what she said clearly, we still don’t understand what she meant.

Just as Tendou and I were speechless, …Hoshinomori still looked away from us…Her eyes are full of a strange determination as she’s seemingly mumbling to herself.

“After all…after all, this is who Keita really is, right? He’s weak but stubborn at weird places, basically an otaku. So, sometimes he would prefer enjoying gaming over becoming a normie…”

“…………”

“However, that’s why…”

Hoshinomori finally looked at us for the first time as she said that.

Then, she smiled brightly.

“That’s why Tendou-san loves Keita, right?”

“!”

Her words, and her expression, made us suddenly came to the realization.

Tendou was throbbed because she realized the most crucial point.

However, from my perspective, …that’s not all…

“Hoshinomori. Actually…actually, you’re not just describing what Tendou feels, you’re describing yourself…”

I can’t help but clench my fist.

…Hoshinomori is cheering Tendou with a smile in front of me.

“So there’s no reason for you to be afraid, Tendou-san. It’s because Keita will definitely reject an invitation like that. Especially today when his favourite game released. Perhaps that boy will even say that he’ll stop joining the Game Hobby Club meetings for a while. Keita is a fanatic gamer like this.”

“…Hoshinomori-san…”

Tendou’s eyes are getting energetic.

“Yeah…that’s the case. Yep, you’re exactly right… Haha, compared to his friends or me, Amano-kun will prioritize gaming. That’s why I’m…That’s right.”

“Yeah, that idiot thinks that gaming is everything. So…”

Hoshinomori lowered her head and mumbled when she’s saying this, seemingly don’t want anyone to hear.

Tendou is still the opposite to Amano, she doesn’t seem to notice mumbles like this…

However, …I’m observing what Hoshinomori is doing, so I can hear her mumbles clearly.

“So, …I decided to step forward, as well. Even if what waiting ahead of me isn’t a couple relationship.”

“!”

To avoid Tendou from hearing, …Hoshinomori cheered her up as a friend while making up her tiny mind as she quietly mumbled.

When…when I saw Hoshinomori acting like that, I clenched my fist even more forcefully with an embarrassing determination.

…However, of course, Tendou’s still oblivious to the situation…

“Yeah, Hoshinomori-san. Amano-kun is quite a pain in the butt, during our date he-“

I can’t believe she’s trying to show off her love in front of Hoshinomori. So, I can’t help but cough as I forced my way between them.

“A-Ahem!”

“Hiya?” “Eh, Uehara-kun?”

I was too rough, and I ended up sticking real close to the two girls.

However, this has to be done. With the situation, I do look like a definite flirty guy from every way, but I’m not regretful in the least bit. Moreover, it’s basically impossible for anyone I know to see me on a rural road like this-

“Tasuku…?”

“Eh?”

-I can suddenly hear someone from my back, I turned back dumbfoundedly.

Then, waiting for me there is my girlfriend with eyes full of hopelessness…Ms Aguri.

She was trying to chat with me a moment ago, her hand, which was halfway on reaching for my shoulder, is now trembling …Crap. This is not good. Although I know this is really nor good, …I can’t think of a brilliant explanation right now. The same goes for Tendou and Hoshinomori.

The situation is so chaotic that no one can say anything. The hellish time gradually passed.

So, after a few seconds that felt like an eternity, Aguri’s trembling lips moved.

“Che…”

“…Che?”

Aguri’s eyes are full of tears…Then, she dashed away from us towards the main street!

“CHEATER! THERE’S ALL THE EVIDENCE!”

“Why does this scream sounds so familiar to me!”

I commented as I chased after- all of us.

For some reason, even Tendou and Hoshinomori caught up with me as we’re running towards her. They seem to have realized they’re responsible as well. The two screamed at Aguri off the distance at the top of their lungs.

“Aguri-san! This is fine! To me, Uehara-kun is basically Amano-kun’s bootlicker!”

“Yes! The time where I was honoured to be liked my Uehara-kun is already over!”

“Thanks for smoothing things over! But why I’m feel hurt just then!”

“Cheater please just shut up!”

“Uwahhh! Even the girls that he’s cheating with admitted that he’s a stinking cheater!”

This unexplainable situation is basically hell! Aguri sped out quickly with her mysterious bewailing as she gradually disappeared on the streets. By the way, she’s faster than a light motorcycle now. Crap, Aguri’s back is getting smaller and smaller.

So, just as we’re about to lose Aguri, Tendou, who’s ahead of Hoshinomori and me pointed forward.

“Aguri-san seemed to have entered the arcade.”

“Oh, thanks, Tendou. We should get to her quickly…I wanted to say that, but Hoshinomori seemed to have reached her limit.”

“S-Sorry…”

Hoshinomori’s catching her breaths as she replied. I smiled at her before saying. “It’s fine.”

“I was already planning to go to the arcade with Aguri. The only reason that she ran there… , perhaps she wanted to calm down by herself. We can walk there slowly.”

“…What a trained response from a cheater…”

“Yep, it looks like I’m getting depreciated no matter what I do.”

Forget about Tendou and Hoshinomori’s suspicions, we adjusted our breaths as we walked towards the arcade.

-Just like what I’ve expected, Aguri’s wrapping her arms around her legs next to the vending machine in the store. She’s curled up like a ball as if she’s throwing a tantrum. Tendou, Hoshinomori, and I tried our best to explain what happened today.

Aguri finally calmed down after she heard our explanation.

She immediately stood up and apologized to the two girls.

“I’m sorry. I’m just freaking out by myself and even treating you two as bad guys…”

“No, no, no. It’s not your fault.”

“Hey, why are you three sound like that there’s someone behind this hideous mess?”

What’s with the girls in the Game Hobby Club? When did my reputation take such a big hit?

Just as I’m dropping my shoulders discouragedly, Aguri asked Tendou shyly. “So?”

“In the end, the thing about being confident enough to invite Amanocchi to the Game Club, how did that discussion go?”

“Ah, about that. We already came into agreement that it’s Amano-kun’s style to prioritize gaming over his girlfriend or friends-“

Just as Tendou was explaining, Aguri yelled as if it reminded her of something. “Ah!” We three were shocked. Then, Aguri quickly grabbed her phone out.

“What’s wrong, Aguri?”

I asked. Aguri then checked up on her history of the messaging app before slapping herself on the forehead with a “Hiya.” Then, she showed me the screen.

“Uh, I was too shocked. Before you guys came here, I contacted Amanocchi to try and grumble at him. I have to change this quickly or else he’ll be here for nothing…”

However, to Aguri’s nervous attitude, …we three smiled upon looking at each other’s face.

Hoshinomori started explaining to a baffled Aguri.

“Aguri-san. I guess it’s fine for you to not correct him right away.”

“Why?”

“After all, today is the release-day of the game he longed after for his entire life. Now the idiot that values gaming over everything is trying to get his prize. It would be impossible for him to come here immediately-“

“Aguri-san!”

A strange, wild call was heard throughout the arcade. Just as the customers are curious as they’re observing the situation, …that person didn’t care about them looking at him in the slightest. Instead, even though he’s out of breaths and sweating real hard, he still headed towards us with a severe glare.

So, just as that person arrived in front of the speechless group, …he finally realized this is a strange situation. So, he tilted his head with a big question mark on his face.

“Aguri-san…? Uh, didn’t you break up with Uehara-kun, and was so depressed that you’re about to commit suicide…?”

Aguri laughed awkwardly at the person’s question. “Ah, ahaha…”

“W-Well. Uh, …how should I put it…Uh…”

“…Aguri-san, don’t tell me…”

Amano gave Aguri a contemptuous look. Aguri then pretended to smile elegantly.

“I-It’s just a misunderstanding. Hehe. ?”

“Of course! What the hell! Really! I was worrying over nothing! Damn!”

“S-Sorry, Amanocchi. I’m apologizing to you! Look, I’m sincere!”

“What kind of apology is this! You’re asking me to look when you didn’t even lower your head! Sigh, really…at least everything’s good now, for real.”

Amano wiped his sweat on his chin away as he smiled at Aguri in relief.

As for Tendou, Hoshinomori, and I, …after we looked at him…

“Strange…?”

There’s a weird voice in our hearts.

Then, seemingly trying to represent us, Tendou asked Amano while trembling.

“A-Amano-kun? Uh, …why are you here?”

“What? Why am I here…It’s because Aguri-san called me with a severe tone.”

“Uh, …perhaps, you’re right. But, Amano-kun…Didn’t you go after for your favourite game today…?”

“Yeah, that’s right…But what’s wrong with that?”

Amano answered casually. Just as the hearts of Tendou, Hoshinomori, and I were beating so fast out of this strange anxiety…Tendou pretended everything’s alright, …but then finally headed straight to the core of this question that’s making us lose our mind.

“S-So, Amano-kun, you’ve always prioritized gaming over everything. Well, of course, you bought the game…before you rushed here, am I right?”

To Tendou’s question, Amano…He first gave her a confused look. Then, he confidently and naturally gave us a shocking response.

“Eh? Of course, I ran here when I’m in the middle of the line. After all, now’s not the time for gaming, right?”

“…hhhhhhh?”

Tendou, Hoshinomori, and I froze with a twisted smile plastered on our faces.

Just as we’re chatting, Aguri laughed as she put her hand on Amano’s shoulder.

“Ahaha, what are you doing, Amanocchi. You’re sweating so much. Uwah, perhaps a pig-headed, disgusting, and indoor otaku is really nasty. I can’t handle this. I really can’t.”

“What’s with the horrible words! None of your business! I’m just a weakling that only play games! Of course, I’ll be sweaty as well when I’m running here at full power with this hot weather! Moreover, the only reason that I’m here is because of a retarded, clumsy, and capricious gal called me without thinking…!”

“Ahahahaha, hiya, you’re really dumb, Amanocchi. Sigh, but thank you. Honestly, you didn’t help me in the least bit at all this time.”

“What the hell. Really…I can’t take this anymore. I can’t deal with you, Aguri-san.”

“Hmph. I was the one that can’t deal with you, Amanocchi.”

We’re not sure what’s making this situation funny, but Amano and Aguri just burst into laughter with each other.

As for we three who just saw their intimate scene…

“Hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh?”

Like a population that’s panicking over a giant monster that has been unknowingly growing underground.

All we can do is to bulge our eyes as we stared at them, speechless.