Volume 8, Chapter 5 – Chiaki Hoshinomori and Forced Multiplayer

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Volume 8, Chapter 5 – Chiaki Hoshinomori and Forced Multiplayer

Translator: your_pingas

“D-Did you wait for a long time?”

“N-No, I just arrived…”

“R-Really.”

“Y-Yes.”

“…………”

“………...”

Afternoon, a Saturday in the middle of December. Next to the station, there’s a shy high school couple too embarrassed to even look at each other. -It seems like that, but, in reality, it’s more like two lonely gamers going to an internet café.

…Of course, that’s me, Keita Amano, and Chiaki Hoshinomori.

“………..”

…Even though we met according to the plan, we completely paused there and remained silent.

After all, …this activity wasn’t planned by Chiaki and me at all.

Konoha-san brought up the suggestion. In the end, Tendou-san stubbornly insisted that-

“Y-You’re right. Yeah, …perhaps that’s fairness. Yes.”

Since she’s agreeing with a stiff face, …at last, the schedule that ignored Chiaki and my opinion were decided.

So, that’s why we’re going on a date today. …Or, should I say, the plan of “Keita Amano and Chiaki Hoshinomori Spending A Day Together” is in action.

“…………”

Also, aside from the meeting place and time, the organizers didn’t arrange anything for this activity. Talk about irresponsible, man. Thanks to that, it left us where we are. We’re stuck, completely. We feel as if we’re in an open-world RPG and stumbled on a bug that prevented the game from leading us to the next quest location. The two of us are helpless in an enormous world map filled with countless options.

…Even so, Chiaki wasn’t at fault for this situation. However, since I’m the one that participated in that conversation, I’m more or less responsible.

I faced Chiaki again. …Although my voice is still a bit stiff, I tried and suggested to her.

“A-Anyway, well, …this is sudden. However, time’s running out. Why don’t we go downtown and grab lunch? Is that okay with you?”

“Ah, y-yes, of course. Uh, yeah, no problem.”

“R-Really, that’s great.”

“Yes…”

So, we headed towards the urban areas quietly. …For some reason, Chiaki’s keeping three steps away from me like a traditional Japanese nice wife as she’s following me…

“Uh, …Chiaki? It’s…quite hard to talk to you if you’re that far…”

“Y-You’re right. Right. It’s just that, Keita, …I don’t think I can walk next to you with no issues…”

“…Ah, …yes, okay…”

Indeed, perhaps it’s right now that she brought this up. Uh, currently, if I’m not dating anyone, there’s no problem strictly speaking. …Yes. How should I put it? If it’s Konoha-san or Aguri-san instead of Chiaki, I won’t even mind at all. …However, she once confessed to me, so it’s hard to not put her on my heart…

“…………”

So, we’re suffering from the relatively hard-to-talk position as well. We…strolled on the sunny downtown quietly, non-stop…

…Well, after an imposing and speechless 5 minutes, Chiaki…mumbled something at me.

“Uh, …Keita. While I do feel terrible for saying this to a guy that I just started ‘dating’ at the start…”

“…Hmm. It’s fine, I can take it. Just say it.”

Even though I can already sense what she’s going to say, I still looked at the front and answered.

Chiaki mumbled. “Well, I’ll be honest…” After that, she took a deep breath.

When she’s fully prepared, she conveyed the “truth” of the current situation.

“Aren’t we being…super awkward right now!”

“Exactly!”

I turned around immediately and agreed with tears in my eyes. Chiaki stopped walking. Then, she started venting out everything that’s piling up in her heart at this point with a relieved face.

“No, no, no, no, no, what is this! I can’t believe that I’m forced to go on a date with the guy that just rejected me, not to mention this is suggested by my sister and the guy’s ex-girlfriend! Is this a new kind of hell!”

“Right! This is indeed very weird, right! Why am I being encouraged by the girl I loved to go out with another girl! Also, I literally trashed the person’s feeling a while ago, and now you want me to enjoy the day happily with her. …Honestly, the bar is high! I can’t do this!”

“Yeah! Keita, even though I just want to stay as your friend, they arranged this ‘dating’ scene for us. Honestly, my mind is about to go haywire! What should I do! Should I say ‘ah…’ when feeding you during lunch! We need to do that, right!”

“That’s just making even more awkward! Instead of calling it a date, that’s already cheating!”

“W-What should we do on the date then! We do a self-introduction first, watch movies, and then we’ll decide when we go out next time. Is that alright!”

“We aren’t meeting for the first time! Eh, our relationship already surpassed that, right!”

“Well, how about I say hi to Keita’s parents instead?”

“That’s too ceremonial! It’s not just cheating anymore. We’re already at the final stage towards marriage!”

“But then what should we do to call this a date, Keita!”

I backed down upon hearing her question. …Then, I scratched my cheeks and answered.

“It’s, …how should I put it? F-For example, we’ll play together, have lunch together, and walk together. Then, we’ll be physically or mentally closer to each other. …Finally, we’ll call it a day with a slightly blessed feeling. I guess that’s a typical date, right…”

I said all that as I remembered the times I went out with Tendou-san. In terms of the situation, the Tendou-san in memory is subconsciously replaced by Chiaki right now. …The guilt is making me a bit anxious.

An awkward silence fell onto the two of us. Then, …I just realized that Chiaki took a deep breath. She repeated what she said earlier again.

“Aren’t we being…super awkward right now!”

“Exactly!”

The two of us are about to break into tears. Was there a date that the participants were this unwilling to hop in?

…However, after we vent the thoughts in our hearts out, …I feel like the mood was relaxed.

-Just as I’m thinking about that, perhaps it’s because the anxiety is relieved. Our stomachs reminded us that we’re hungry.

“…………”

Chiaki and I looked at each other. Then, both of us chuckled.

(…Ay, right. No matter how unreasonable this is, …I’m still me, and Chiaki is still Chiaki. We’re the same type of loners. We love video games, …and we’re cowards.)

I’m relieved now. …This is a rare holiday, after all. Let’s forget whether this counts as a date or not. I think we should still enjoy it and be happy.

I let out a “hmm” and stretched my back with my elbows pointing to the side. After that, I tried to ease the awkwardness by chatting with Chiaki.

“Alright, let’s eat lunch first, Chiaki. Ah, I feel like I want noodles today.”

After hearing that, Chiaki answered me with a face that looks like her nervousness has been relieved.

“Ah, what a coincidence, Keita! I want noodles too! Well, let’s find a restaurant quickly and figure out what we should do after that. I want pasta. Pasta is better!”

“Eh? Hmm, …is there a spaghetti made of rolled noddles?”

“Hey, hey, hey, Keita, why did you just include ‘rolled noodles’ in your search like it’s nothing? Huh?”

Although Chiaki glared at me, …she came up next to me subconsciously and didn’t keep her distance. I feel like…I’m relieved to see that.

During this time, she scanned my whole body once before mumbling quietly.

“…Ah, I don’t think there’s a spaghetti that uses bean sprout to…”

“Hey, Chiaki, why are you suddenly adding ‘bean sprout’ to your search? Huh?”

So, …we put all of our messed thoughts to the side, and our “exciting date” finally began.

*

“No, no, no, you’re wrong, Chiaki. It’s better to use ‘animation rendering’ in open-world games, right!”

“You’re helpless, Keita. Stop using those ‘reverse’ points to act cool, alright? Usually, people wanted a ‘realistic’ representation of imagery for open-world games. It’s pure and powerful.”

“Well, I do agree that a realistic scene is attractive! However, from a simple game point, using an animation or manga style gives off a ‘clear and easy’ feeling-“

“No, no, no, no, even though it’s a realistic style, you can include the ‘clear and easy demand in the UI design! I feel like making it apparent that ‘where the latest game is the strongest at’ is one of the responsibilities of major companies-“

It’s been 40 minutes since we entered a spaghetti chain restaurant.

Speaking of Chiaki and me, …ay, of course, we’re debating each other as usual.

A plate of slightly dried, half-finished pollock roe pasta is in front of me. As for Chiaki, in contrast to mine, her plate of half-empty clam chowder soup spaghetti is starting to absorb too much water.

We poked our forks into the plate, …yet we aren’t taking another bite. Instead, we continued our heated argument.

“Widening your dissatisfaction with ‘moe’ to the ‘2D style’ field, I feel like you’re too nit-picking.”

“I didn’t say that! However, honestly, I feel like 2D style shares the same stuff like the ‘soft style’ which I hated.”

“Uh, Chiaki, that’s true. But, even though your…NOBE’s games are 2D, the content is still pretty great. Also, it’s unique, hardcore, and fun, right-“

Chiaki suddenly stopped retorting in the middle of my sentence and plopped her head down. I was a bit puzzled. In the end, …she mumbled with a super quiet voice with her ears flared up.

“T-Thank…you. …T-Tsucchi…”

“Eh? Ah, hmm, yes, …y-you’re welcome…”

During this time, I finally realized that…I was praising Chiaki in front of her. So, the embarrassment hits me, and I lowered my head like her.

…Then, as if we’re trying to escape from something, we started snooping the spaghetti at the same time. The lunch is surprisingly fast.

We finished our meals at the exact same time after we stopped talking. So, we enjoyed the drinks that came with the set as we managed to begin a new conversation again.

“W-Well, Chiaki, I feel like we were just talking about gaming. …Uh, what should we do next?”

“R-Right. …Hmm, what should we do? Want to see a movie?”

“You have any on your mind?”

“Nope. Doesn’t it sound like a date when you have to see a movie that you aren’t interested in?”

“It does sound like a date, …but do you really want to do that?”

“…I’m sorry. I lied to my heart a little bit just then. No, I’m not spending 2 hours on those awful romantic movies.”

“I guess so. You dislike ‘moe’ things at the start, so it’s just going to be a torture for you.”

“Yeah, yeah. It’s more like, and I’m confused about this one, what’s the point to watch other people getting in love?”

“Chiaki, can you stop it? Even though I don’t know why, but I feel like ‘the world revolving around us’ has just been insulted by you. I’m getting goosebumps. In a sense, you denied something that you should never hear…”

“Your eighth-grade syndrome is still just as severe, Keita. Don’t tell me you want to be a light novel protagonist?”

“Eh? Hmm, yes. I will be lying if I say I don’t want to be a protagonist. Well, actually, I did…”

I answered with a subtle tone. It made Chiaki stared at me with a confused look as she’s blowing on her hot lemon tea.

I took a sip of my iced lemon tea and gave her an embarrassed smile.

“Right now, I don’t think I want to become a protagonist that much anymore. After all, if I really got isekai’d, I will never get to know you.”

“Eh…?”

Chiaki, who’s playing with the sliced lemon on the cup, accidentally dropped it into the tea. My heart started itching when I saw she was in such a shocked state. I quickly tried to calm her down.

“Ah, well, it’s not just you! It’s also for Uehara-kun and Aguri-san. Tendou-san as well, of course. I’ll really hate this world if I can’t see them, or if they were dragged into some mystery.”

“R-Really, …I-I see. Alright, I’m fine. E-Everything’s okay. Yes, p-please, don’t mind me.”

After she finished that, Chiaki hastily picked up her lemon tea and started chugging it. “It’s hot!” But the temperature is still too high, so she moved her lips away with tears in her eyes.

I can’t help but smile at her and continued.

“Right now, I sincerely think that a lot of people care about me. …Ah, in this sense, I guess that’s the definition of ‘being a normie’ in my heart.”

“Hmm? What do you mean?”

Chiaki kept blowing on her lemon tea as she asked. I answered with a smile.

“I’m no longer expecting something ‘unusual’ to happen. This means that I have a fulfilling and stable life, right.”

“…I see. Perhaps, …it’s like what you said. Well, even though I don’t want to admit it, I guess I also count as a ‘normie’ right now.”

“Hmm? You too?”

I asked her. Chiaki’s still holding the cup with her hands as she smiled very gently.

“Yes. It’s because…I don’t want to give up the daily lives where I get to hang out with you.”

“!”

I’m the one blushing this time. However, of course, Chiaki hastily made an excuse, just like what I did earlier.

“I made a mistake! I made a mistake! It’s not just you. Everyone is included too! This part is crucial, alright!”

“Y-Yeah…”

“Desudesudesudesudesudesu!” [Note: ‘Desu’ sounds exactly like ‘death’ in Japanese.]

“It sounded like a death curse when you were that sure…”

My friend read the word ‘death’ a couple times when she was nodding vigorously. It’s quite damaging mentally. Depends on how’s your body doing on that day, it might really kill people.

Ay, I’ll stop the jokes here, back to the topic.

“So, seriously, what should we do next, Chiaki?”

“Well, …if it’s not a date that we suggested, actually, come to think of it, I don’t feel like doing anything at all.”

“Stop saying that. …It can’t be helped. Anyway, let’s go for a walk on the streets. Then, I’ll accompany you if there’s anything you want to buy, or anywhere you want to go. If there’s not, …let’s go to the game store or arcade…”

“…Keita, although I don’t want to say this, …your idea is probably the worst for a date.”

“Stop it!”

“But I’m totally fine with it.”

“You’re cool with that?”

My eyes opened wide as I’m shocked. As for Chiaki, …she smiled with a slightly frustrated expression.

“In reality, Keita, …I’m already really happy if I get to spend the day with you.”

“…………”

For a moment, what she said and her face made my chest hurts.

However, …I immediately fudged with an “alright alright” before replying with a smile.

“Actually, you’re supposed to say ‘us’ instead of ‘me,’ right?”

When she heard what I said, Chiaki…rolled her tongue out and smiled a little bit mischievously.

“Was I that obvious? Yes. Instead of you, it’s more like going out with friends.”

“Jeez. …However, I should agree with that too. From our perspective, instead of making a date look like one, it’s better to just go out and have fun.”

“Yeah. Well, we have this figured out then, Keita.”

Then, Chiaki finally grabbed her cooled lemon tea, and, without any consideration of a girl’s etiquette, she chugged it at once manlily. After that, she stood up abruptly and looked at me.

“Let’s go! The games won’t wait for us!”

“You just completely ignored the suggestion of a walk. All that remains in your heart is video games, right? Sigh, …even though I’m the same.”

So, I took away the straw and finished the iced tea at once.

Both of us smiled at each other as we walked on the street during the sunny afternoon like elementary students.

*

“Even so, hmm, …it’s indeed boring for the two of us to just walk regularly.”

“Stop it.”

The excitement when we left the restaurant disappeared out of nowhere. We started complaining after just a single minute.

Both of us didn’t check up on each other, and we just walked towards the familiar game store in a straight line. …No one said anything, not even looking to the side.

“…………”

Chiaki and I are too uninterested in anything other than gaming. That’s the fatal point.

For example, …right, if it was Aguri-san, who’s the complete opposite of me, instead-

“Please go to the game store with me, Aguri-san. Here.”

“I guess I can. …Eh, Amanocchi, I want to check out that T-shirt. Come with me!”

Yep, a “two-person sized desire” will started conflicting with each other like this. You can kill a lot of time, whether it’s good or not.

However, for Chiaki and me, …which is the so-called “clone partners,” this won’t work at all.

Our desires entirely overlapped. Honestly, it’s the exact same as spending the holiday alone. We’ll just pick the shortest route and head to the destination silently.

“…………”

That “it’s happy to be friends” declaration vanished right away. Currently, the two otakus are putting their minds entirely on gaming and are just moving on the street boringly.

…C-Can we call this a date? I should say, it’s already quite questionable as to whether this can be defined as a “happy time you spend with your friends,” right?

Although we shared the thought, we couldn’t answer if you asked us if there any solution. I mean, unless we’re arguing about gaming, …the two of us can fight forever. But, aside from that, we lacked any sort of interaction methods.

…I felt slightly irresponsible. So, I glanced at the sky and tried to “chat normally” with Chiaki.

“…Nice weather.”

“Yeah.”

The conversation part is over. Thanks for the work, everyone.

“…………”

So, right now, we’re presenting this sort of “voided time” to you. If this is a dating sim, the developer will absolutely delete the description of this plot. What is this?

So, Chiaki seems to be at her limit of awkwardness. This time, she’s the one that talked to me instead. She even brought up something other than interests.

“Keita, what did you and Karen-san chat about when you two were dating?”

“What? That was sensitive as hell!”

“No, no, no, it’s not like that, right. This is like one of those FromSoftware games where you need to pile up your death count to pass the level. Why can’t we learn from how other players died and apply that knowledge to our adventure?”

“Why did you perceive that I’m unable to talk to Tendou-san properly! Well, even though I always mess it up! If we’re in a FromSoftware game right now, this area would be covered by my blood and soul remnants!”

“Wow, I admire Karen-san’s patience.”

“You’re not acknowledging my efforts!? I-I think I’ve grown up during that relationship too!”

“Well then, please talk about something interesting, Keita.”

“That’s the hardest challenge you can give to a loner!”

“Well, please talk about something uninteresting then.”

“Your quest is way too unusual! You’re telling me to talk about something uninteresting!”

“Your past, for example.”

“Don’t just assert that it’s boring! Even though it is boring! It’s so usual that it freaks you out!”

“Ah, I want to hear it. Remember the time when a village screamed ‘Devil!’ while he threw rocks at you?”

“I don’t have such a tragic past! Chiaki, who do you think I am!?”s

“The best offline player of Life Online. Mr. Mistake. Dwarf Winter Melon. My tiny friend who’s a total midget.”

“Very well, we’ll quit being ‘friends’ here! Let us fight each other to death, Chiaki!”

“Eh, that’s monotonous. I’m not doing it today.”

“You fired the cannon first, and now you’re not fighting!?”

“Well, Keita, how about you say something extremely romantic to me.”

“Stop giving an unreasonably difficult question to a lonely otaku! Chiaki, why don’t you say something instead!”

“…Uh, …well, …n-nice weather.”

“See!”

Nope, we can’t figure out how to have a “normal conversation” indeed. Seriously, what will humans say when they’re hanging out! Also, why can’t we talk about something that’s not violent or depressing! Are we that emotionally unstable!?

Anyway, the two of us strolled on the road silently after the conversation ended. Although we didn’t ban any gaming related topics, …it’s just like Chiaki refusing to battle before. This is still a date, and yet we’re already suspecting in our hearts. Should we just avoid everything again today?

…The sunshine and the light reflected by the snow is gradually scorching our skin.

There’s still a long 15-minute distance to the destination: the Game Store. This isn’t a distance where you can pass by saying nothing. However, as you can see here, we already ran out of all options.

“…………”

We frequently glanced at each other and then immediately looking away when we made eye-contact sometimes. …All we’re doing is walking forward. …As a professional embarrassment taster, the current embarrassment level is only second to the family restaurant meeting after the attempting kissing incident. That has already entered the Top 10 Keita Amano’s Most Embarrassment Moments. If we’re going by the growth from now on, it looks like the top spot will change very soon.

In the end, Chiaki and I remained speechless for 3 minutes. …There’s just one route towards the game store. Just as we’re about to turn-

“Ah.” “Hiya.”

We nearly bumped into a guy and girl at the corner. No one walks on the same roads as people tend to drive in rural areas like this, so we made a little oopsie.

After we lowered our heads and apologized to each other, we crossed each other directly-

“…?”

-We stopped as we’re about to move forward.

The four of us turned back at the same moment and looked at each other’s faces. So, unexpectedly, we saw-

“Eh, Kase-senpai…and Oiso-senpai?”

-The two senpais are wearing casual clothes. They seem to have noticed Chiaki and me as well, and their eyes immediately widened.

“Oh, aren’t you Keita Amano? Also, this is, …I remembered her visit to the club last time…”

“Chiaki Hoshinomori, right. The kouhai that Kyoubu brought to the club.”

“H-Hello.”

Chiaki lowered her head and greeted them. Come to think of it, she visited the club before as well.

We stopped for a second and simply greeted them with a “what a coincidence” and “we’re heading home from the game store.” However, …of course, there’s no reason for Kase-senpai and Oiso-senpai to pester us. After the greeting is over, they gave us a “bye” and turned around.

“We’ll be leaving.”

“Bye.”

Kase-senpai bid farewell emotionlessly as he pushed his glasses. As for Oiso-senpai, she waved her hand lazily as usual.

Just as the two were leaving, -Chiaki and I suddenly grabbed their wrist tightly.

“Wha-?”

The two senpais don’t know what’s happening, and they turned back with a shocked face. Their unfamiliar kouhais just suddenly held them by their wrist. They should be puzzled by the situation, right. …Actually, Chiaki and I won’t do this usually as well. However, today, …no, this moment is unique.

It’s because…

“Can you two please…”

“…Huh?”

The two senpais can’t hear our husky voice, so they asked us back.

To their reaction, …Chiaki and I tried our best to raise our heads and get real close to them. Then, we wholeheartedly begged.

“Can you two please chat with Chiaki (Keita) and me until we arrive at that game store!”

“…Huh?”

Even though our request is obvious, the two senpais are still tilting their head confusingly.

*

“I see what’s going on. However, Keita Amano, let me say something, alright?”

Kase-senpai walked next to me as he and his glasses gazed at me coldly.

“-What does that have to do with me?”

“Y-You’re right. …B-But, uh, can senpai accommodate for this time?”

I rubbed my hands as I begged Kase-senpai, which isn’t something that I usually do. Although he gave me a sincerely dumbfounded look, …he still walked next to me loyally. The route to the game store is definitely not short. I was thinking about this before, ...but this person is actually really nice. …However, I feel like I’m using him right now.

During this time, I can hear Oiso-senpai yawning behind me. When I looked back, senpai’s rubbing her eyes lazily due to sleepiness. Her wide-open jacket revealed the cami below, and it’s somewhat flirty. Honestly, I don’t know where I should look.

Just as I hastily turned around, Chiaki, who’s next to Oiso-senpai, spoke up and apologized.

“I-I’m sorry. I feel like we’re forcing senpai to stay with us…”

“Hmm? I’m good with that. It’s boring to hang out with Kase alone, anyway.”

“Hey, Oiso.”

Kase-senpai turned around and glared at her. I can feel a really intimate vibe from this, so I tried to ask casually.

“Also, …are you two dating or something…”

“No.”

They gave me a full denial. Even the sleepy head Oiso-senpai answered so firmly, I guess they find the idea pretty repulsive. …Hmm, but from my perspective, I think this just shows that they’re close…

After I conveyed my thoughts out, Kase-senpai sighed troublesomely and explained.

“Like what I’ve said before, Oiso and I are just going to the game store to buy controllers for the club. We already bought it. So, it’s really pointless for us to head back to the store-“

“Wow, I can’t believe you’re going to the game store twice in a day, Kase-senpai! You’re the role model for all gamers! Ha, the trump card of the Game Club!”

“Keita Amano, …your social skills have grown a bit after I met you last time, and I hate it.”

“Hehe, thanks. I appreciated it.”

“Your personality changed completely, right?”

It looks like Kase-senpai can’t deal with my annoyingly flippant attitude, but who cares about him. Instead of remaining awkwardly silent with Chiaki for 15 minutes, I…I would rather for senpais to despise me!

Oiso-senpai added something.

“Also, a club member was with us until a while ago.”

“Eh!”

Chiaki and my nervous voice overlapped each other. Then, …Oiso-senpai continued like it’s nothing.

“Ah, but Tendou wasn’t here.”

“R-Really…”

We pressed our chests in relief for some reason. …How should I put it? Even though Tendou-san is the one that arranged this date, …why are we so afraid to see her right now?

Just as we’re being tortured by this incomprehensible sense of guilt, Kase-senpai let out an “ah” as he remembered something.

“If I remembered correctly, …Tendou said that ‘she will wear a straitjacket and stay home’ today.”

“Why!”

Chiaki and I were shocked. Kase-senpai answered calmly.

“Who knows? But I guess all gamers want to do that from time to time.”

“I don’t think so!”

“Really? I’ll sometimes be kidnapped and jailed by special forces during the holidays.”

“The Game Club is really just as usual!”

This time, Chiaki and I were the ones that can’t handle it. As for Oiso-senpai, she’s staring at mid-air alone and mumbling some words that sound like game commands. I guess she’s mentally simulating a fighting game to train herself. Eh, these people are really just the same.

Just as Chiaki and I glanced at each other and smiled bitterly, this time, Kase-senpai…was the one that threw a fierce question at us as usual.

“By the way, can I interpret this as Keita Amano and Chiaki Hoshinomori are dating each other?”

“Ugh!”

“This means that our Tendou lost the war on her love? Hmm, what a tragic woman.”

“Ugh!”

Kase-senpai turned his words into swinging blades without any consideration. Although we suffered massive damage, we still quickly tried to defend Tendou-san for her fame.

“N-No, no, no! Chiaki and I aren’t dating!”

“Y-Yeah! Moreover, Karen-san didn’t lose anything at all! Yes!”

After he heard what we said, Kase-senpai answered calmly. “Really…” …However, he immediately threw out another grenade.

“But if you two are going out on holiday like this, shouldn’t it means that you are interested in each other?”

“Uwah!”

What’s wrong with this person? Is he incapable of sensing anything related to love at all…? Uh, even though I feel like we aren’t in a position to complain!

“If that’s the case, our club president is indeed a big loser in love…”

“No, no, no! Kase-senpai, why do you want to think that Tendou-san is a loser!”

“You’re asking me why? Of course, you should know it, right. Keita Amano.”

“N-No, I don’t understand what you’re talking about at all…”

I looked away immediately. However, Kase-senpai, …he remained emotionless as he spoke up calmly and fiercely.

“It’s because that girl is more charming when she lost for some reason.”

“You can’t say that!”

Chiaki and I complained at the same time. …Honestly, we did subtly acknowledge that! Instead of remaining in a perfect mode, Tendou-san is as charming as fireworks when she’s losing it!

I tried my best to defend Tendou-san.

“B-But, Tendou-san’s temper should be better when she’s shining at the winning side, right!”

“Hmm, I guess you’re right. …Let me think about it. If you want to describe our club’s cowardly president with a recent Dragon Ball episode, she would be like Kale.”

“Please don’t say that! Why would you think Tendou-san is that of character!”

“I want to put a smile on your face.”

“That’s mean! You’re in the same club. Do you think that’s alright, Kase-senpai!”

“Of course, initially, I also sincerely hoped that her skill as a gamer can improve, …and that her victory rate can be stable. However, after I saw what she’s like recently…”

“What! If you’re saying that she’s better off as a loser, that’s definitely not what Tendou-san-“

I was pissed off about my ex-girlfriend's reputation. During this time-

Kase-senpai, …for a moment, he flashed an unprecedently gentle smile at me.

“However, her charm when she’s losing in a match isn’t so bad too. That’s what I feel.”

“…………”

That’s something that we’ve never seen on Kase-senpai’s face when we were touring the Game Club before, …which means we’ll never get to see it. After Chiaki and I froze, Oiso-senpai, who suddenly snapped out of her simulation training a while ago, talked to us with a deep voice.

“Hey, we’re also influenced by our club president Tendou as well. …This means that we’re influenced by the Tendou that’s ‘being influenced by Keita Amano and the Game Hobby Club,’ right?”

“Really…”

I can’t help but scratch my face out of this sudden embarrassment.

Kase-senpai hmphed at this time.

“However, even though a ‘defeat’ worths more now, it doesn’t mean that ‘winning’ values less.”

“………….”

For some reason, Chiaki and I were impressed by that sentence. Our bodies turned stiff after that.

(…He’s right. Whether you were saved during a defeat or not, …winning is still the best conclusion, no matter what. This fact will never change…)

That’s obviously not just for gaming. The same thing goes for love as well…

Chiaki and I lowered our heads, while Kase-senpai suddenly said, “Oh.”

Then, he quickly patted my shoulder as if he’s trying to push me forward. After that, he suddenly bid farewell to me, who’s still confused.

“Well, we’ll leave now. Keita Amano.”

“What? You’ve got to be kidding me. Uh, there’s still some time until we arrive at the store…”

I begged. This time, Oiso-senpai looked behind and let out an “ah” before continuing.

“Yep, well, that guy will stay with you for the remaining time. See you.”

“Eh? Wait, senpai-“

The two senpais completely ignored Chiaki and my panicking and quickly turned around and fled.

We freaked out as we watched them disappear. …Then, both of us sighed as we faced forward. Thanks to senpais, it’s only 5 minutes until we reach the store. I guess I can tolerate the silence of the two of us alone…

“Eh? Amano-kun?”

“Eh?”

I raised my always plopped-down head when someone suddenly called me.

Then, the person that appeared in front of me is…

“M-Mizumi-kun?”

The refreshing protagonist that I haven’t seen in a long time. One of my few friends, at the same time, Eiichi Mizumi-kun-

“Hi, long time no see, the Amano-kun that ‘wasted my efforts and broke up with Tendou-san!’ Wow, what an honor to see you here! No, no, no, you don’t need to mind at all, Amano-kun! I was just proud to be your wingman a while ago! Also, I’m the one that defended you after that attempted kissing incident! I ended up being a literal clown of love in the Game Club, …but I don’t mind that at all! Yes! Also, you don’t need to mind even if you’re immediately dating another beautiful girl other than Tendou-san! BYE!”

-The demon that’s wrapped in his skin.

He hastily prepares to leave with a hypocritical smile. So, I went in front of him, and then I immediately kneeled down even though we’re on the road.

“No, I feel really sorry for you!”

…As a whole, I guess I’m still not used to the people in the Game Club.

*

“I’m sorry. I was really joking just then. Don’t be that seriously startled, Amano-kun. Also, …uh, Hoshinomori-san? I want to apologize to you too. Even though this is the first time we talked, I think I already soured up the mood.”

It’s been a few minutes since the terrible encounter. I tried my best to explain when we’re on the way to the game store. Mizumi-kun bitterly smiled as he answered me like this.

“N-No, I’m totally…”

Behind Mizumi-kun and me, who’s walking shoulder to shoulder, Chiaki’s introvert mode slightly got the better of her. However, she still managed to reply to Mizumi-kun sheepishly.

Following Chiaki, I also apologized to Mizumi-kun depressingly.

“I’m really sorry, Mizumi-kun. Even though you did a lot for Tendou-san and me…”

“Ah, …in reality, I’m really regretful when you two broke up as well.”

Mizumi scratched his cheeks awkwardly and continued.

‘However, I’m really not mad. So, please relax. It’s more like, there’s no reason for me to be mad.”

“I’m glad to hear that. …Also, even though it’s too late to say this, sorry, please walk us to the store.”

“Ah, you don’t need to mind that. It’s been a long time since I’ve chatted with you, anyway. I’m really excited.”

Mizumi-kun’s smiling charmingly and refreshingly. …Where can we even find such a likable teenage protagonist? People will really fall for him. If there’s a chance for an Eiichi Mizumi harem, please let me join, even though I’ll be in the last place.

During this time, Chiaki dragged the bottom of my shirt from behind. I slowed down and got closer to her, and then she whispered to me.

(Whether it’s Uehara-kun, or this Mizumi-kun, Keita, you’re way too blessed by friends, right?)

Although Chiaki sounds sarcastic, in reality, I sincerely agreed with her as well. So, I nodded and answered her.

(Ah, yeah, I think so. A lot of people cared about me recently, including you.)

(Eh? T-Thank you. …Well, I also feel that, …uh, …I-I’m blessed by…my friends as well…)

(Hmm, you’re quite close to Tendou-san recently too, Chiaki.)

(Eh? Yeah, y-you’re right. …Ughh, I don’t even have enough time to feel embarrassed…!)

(Chiaki? What’s wrong? I think I heard you said “don’t feel embarrassed,” right.)

(You’re asking me that!? I-I’m okay! I’m just thinking of a new spell for my game! L-Lighting Spell <Dunveelanbarius>! Like that?)

(Oh, NOBE’s taste is just as crazy.)

(Please leave me alone, Tsucchi!)

I think Chiaki’s angry. So, I sped up and came next to Mizumi-kun again.

So, Mizumi-kun, who I suspect that he’s watching the interaction between Chiaki and me, said something unexpected.

“…I see. Well, …I guess Tendou-san is tired.”

“Hmm? What did you say?”

“Uh, nothing. I was just thinking our club president really likes to go hard on herself as usual.”

Mizumi-kun chuckled cheerfully. …Although I don’t understand what’s happening, I guess I didn’t make him upset.

We finally arrived at the game store destination after a while of chitchatting.

“Well, I’ll be leaving…”

Mizumi prepares to leave as he said that. However, I quickly asked him to stay.

“Wait, Mizumi-kun, there’s something that I wanted to discuss with you. Can you spare just a bit more time?”

“Discuss? Yeah, sure. …But Amano-kun, aren’t you going out with Hoshinomori-san right now?”

Mizumi-kun showed sympathy to Chiaki, who’s standing next to me. I smiled and answered him.

“No, that’s why we’re discussing this right now. This is also for Chiaki’s sake.”

“It’s for Hoshinomori-san too? Well, even though I’m not sure of the situation, …hmm, it’s fine as long as I can help you.”

Mizumi-kun said that as he turned to us again.

He’s indeed a reliable friend. …So, I mentally prepared myself and stated what I wanted to bring up to him.

“Mizumi-kun, in your opinion, …how should Chiaki and I continue our date?”

“Ehhhh!”

Mizumi-kun finally freaked out. He asked me this while trembling.

“Y-You’re asking me that in front of the girl you’re going out with?”

In contrast to Mizumi-kun, who’s looking next to me awkwardly, Chiaki answered with an emotionless face.

“Ah, please don’t mind me. It’s because I’m just as hopeless as Keita.”

“Why are you both hopeless!? Is this even a date!?”

“It’s because Tendou-san and Konoha-san said that this is a date. I guess it counts as one today.”

“Is this a third-party, Salad Anniversary-style definition of date!? The love story between you guys exceeded my comprehension by a considerable margin! [Note: Salad Anniversary, a collection of 500 short, song-like poems by Machi Tawara. The joke references the famous sentence: 6th July is Salad Anniversary because you said it tastes like. (Literal translation).]

“I feel like that’s my line as well…”

Even so, the “Light Novel Protagonist” is actually complaining. From this perspective, perhaps our imbroglio already entered the unusual realm.

Mizumi-kun sighed loudly and mumbled. “Sigh, I’m fine with that…” After that, he agreed to discuss with me once again.

“Although I haven’t gone on any dates, …if you two aren’t couples yet, basically, you can just do something that ‘enhances the feelings’ on the date, right?”

“Yes. Any examples?”

“For instance, …let me think, like chatting, dining together, watching the beautiful scenery romantically. …Finally, you can confess your feelings for each other sincerely. Isn’t this the best date?”

After I heard Mizumi-kun’s refreshing opinion, Chiaki and I can’t help but look at each other, …and then we answered him at the same time.

“We’ve almost done all of them.”

“Why! Aren’t you two not couples yet!?”

“We are friends.”

“Of course, you’ll be stuck! After all, you two already entered the last stage! It’s like reaching the level limit before changing your class, yet you keep earning more EXP!”

“What a clear metaphor! You’re incredible!”

“You two are still admiring me! A-Anyway, if you have already progressed so much, I can literally give zero ‘date planning’ ideas for you two right now-“

Just as Mizumi-kun said that dumbfoundedly and almost put his hand on his forehead, …he suddenly realized something.

“?”

We tilted our heads. He…mumbled to himself. “Uh, this is too, …but…” The boy is hesitating.

Chiaki and I glanced at each other. …Then, both of us faced Mizumi-kun again. I represented us and begged him sincerely once again.

“We’re really stuck, Mizumi-kun. Please tell us if you got any good ideas. That would be really helpful…”

“Amano-kun…”

After he heard my request, Mizumi-kun scratched his head awkwardly.

Although he looked troubled by something for a while, …at last, he can’t ignore Chiaki and my helpless “little puppy” eyes. So, he sighed and confessed to us.

“Uh, how should I put it? I guess you two can do the thing that I did with Amano-kun before. …At least, I got really close to Amano-kun because of that…”

“Hmm? What did I do with you? What was that? …Ah, you mean the club visit?”

“Uh, no, it’s not that. It should be some time after that…”

“Huh? What was that?”

I was confused since I have no idea.

Mizumi-kun looked at Chiaki and me for a couple of times. …Finally, he mumbled. “Tendou-san, I’m sorry…” After that, he told us this with an incredibly awkward face.

“Uh, …I was thinking, can Hoshinomori-san visit Amano-kun’s home and play video games together…”

“----“

…Another pair of boy and girl that’s standing with an incredibly awkward face next to the game store.

*

“W-Well, e-excuse me.”

“P-P-Please come in…”

A nervous and stiff-looking girl is invited into the boy’s home, who’s just as stiff and anxious.

…This hellish scene went live an hour after we separated from Mizumi-kun.

Of course, after he suggested we continue our date at my house, Chiaki and I immediately rejected the idea vehemently.

Then, 10 minutes after we bid farewell to Mizumi-kun and finished touring the game store, …we remained in the “silent” state. …We realized it when we kept walking.

Currently, we can’t think of a happy “dating plan” at all aside from that.

Come to think of it, it’s way too sly for him to suggest that “we play games at home.” It’s because that’s like…inviting a Japanese, who stays overseas all the time, into my house and give him salted rice ball as dinner. The mouth, the tongue, …and brain will be unable to think of anything “aside from that" option

In the end, I was defeated by my desires and invited Chiaki. “Do you…want to come to my house?” She answered. “It can’t be helped! Yeah, it really can’t be helped!” She agreed especially enthusiastically with an “it can’t be helped.” In the end, we adapted Mizumi-kun’s suggestion gladly.

However, even so, as soon as we got close to my home, Chiaki started getting nervous unavoidably. I started trembling when I saw her look too, and it all entered a vicious cycle. At last, both of us entered Amano’s house while as we complained exhaustingly. “Why did it go like this…”

I explained to Chiaki once again as she’s still dragging her feet to take off her shoes.

“As I’ve said before, my parents went somewhere far away to buy stuff today, so they aren’t here. You don’t need to be nervous. The ‘greeting with parents’ plot really won’t appear.”

“A-Alright, uh, well, I understand. Yes.”

Chiaki finally took off her shoes and tried to put them as close to the corner of the entrance as possible. I locked the door and took off my own as well before continuing.

“Even so, it’s not just us two alone. Kousei is at home. …Kousei! I’m back!”

I yelled across the room to the stairs heading towards the second floor after I walked in with Chiaki. After a while, I can hear someone opening the door, which is followed by footsteps.

“Yes. You’re back. …Uh, strange? Brother, but you said you’ll be home later tonight…”

Kousei said that as he stepped down lazily with his home clothes on.

So, after he appeared in our view, Chiaki lowered her head and greeted him.

“W-Well, thanks for having me, Kousei-kun.”

Kousei immediately stopped at the stairs as soon as he saw Chiaki. It’s because I bought a friend obviously, …a female friend back home—what a rare sight. I explained the situation to him.

“Ah, Chiaki and I went out today for specific reasons, and yet we couldn’t figure out how to kill time. So, I brought her here to play video games.”

“…Brother, you invited Chiaki-senpai to home and play video games together…?”

Kousei answered with a shocked face. I nodded and said “yes.”

“Instead of saying us two, Kousei, you can join if you’re free-“

However, in the middle of my sentence, Kousei…suddenly charged up the stairs and opened his door forcefully before entering and closing it. Then…

“…YES! YES! YES! YES!”

“?”

…A confusing cheer can be heard from the second floor. …Ah, even though my little brother is more well-mannered than your average boys. He’s still in middle school, after all. I guess he could be frustrated on some days.

Chiaki and I stood at the entrance. So, around 10 seconds later, just as I’m preparing to bring Chiaki to the living room, the door of my little brother’s room opened again.

Without any further thinking, Chiaki and I waited for Kousei to get down the stairs.

However, …when Kousei appeared in front of us once again…

“Hey, Kousei, why are you bringing your bags and coat?”

He’s clearly going out. Chiaki and I were surprised. So, Kousei told us this with a charming and refreshing smile.

“Brother, there’s something urgent that I need to do.”

“That’s quite sudden! Eh, what, what’s wrong? You’re not going to play video games with us?”

“Hmm, even though that’s a lovely suggestion to me personally…”

After Kousei said that, he glanced at us two standing together for some reason. Then, he smiled warmly.

“However, in the grand scheme of things, Kousei Amano’s existence is unnecessary for this world right now!”

“Why did you suddenly say that!”

I think my little brother just suddenly said something utterly depressing. However, even though Kousei’s talking like that, he went past us with a happy look. He hummed a song as he got his shoes on. So, I faced his back and asked him further.

“Uh, …Kousei? Where are you specifically going and doing…

“Hmm? Oh, …well…”

Although he said it’s something urgent, Kousei acted like he’s only thinking of an answer right now. He tied his shoelaces as he thought about it. After a while, he let out a “hey” and stood up abruptly before turning to us.

“Well, I’ll take this rare opportunity and entertain myself with that hentai girl.”

“Will someone spend their holiday like this!?”

His schedule is so unprecedented that it made our jaws drop. What is this? Do middle schoolers like to do that nowadays?

Just as Chiaki and I froze, Kousei pushed open the entrance door. He said, “Well, I’ll be leaving.” …He’s really gone now.

“…………”

Chiaki and I were left at the entrance alone. We can’t help but look at each other. …At the moment Kousei left home, Amano’s house is wrapped around in a somewhat heavy silence.

(…The two of us are now alone…)

We can see each other’s “understanding” of what’s happening, so we quickly looked away. I rudely locked the door that Kousei opened when he left as if I’m covering up something. So, Chiaki freaked out, and her shoulders are shivering.

I noticed my mistake and quickly calmed her down.

“Ah, it’s nothing. I’m sorry. Uh, I’m just locking the door usually, well…”

“I-It’s okay. Well, I should be the one to apologize. I feel like I was way too sensitive…”

“…………”

“…………”

The two of us lowered our heads in front of the entrance. …There’s a piece of good news that I need to report to everyone. This time, in my life’s “Most Embarrassing Moments,” the first place of “The Department of Fastest Wind Speed in One Second” has been updated. …That’s enough. Please forgive me. Do gods dislike lonely otakus that much?

“…………”

The two of us thoroughly enjoyed this sense of first-grade embarrassment, which it’s guaranteed to cost billions per bottle if it was made into red wine. Then…

“Uh, …a-anyway, Chiaki, please move to the living room…”

“Eh? Ah, yes, w-w-well, excuse me…”

…Although our bodies are still very stiff, we finally moved away from the entrance.

Amano’s home design is relatively clean. In an ample space filled with carpet, there’s a heater, TV, cupboards, and a sofa that’s next to the wall. There’s only an old and short table placed in the middle of the room.

There’s nothing for Chiaki to do aside from looking around in a room like this. So, I turned on the heater and talked to her.

“Just make yourself home and sit on the sofa. Ah, right, I’ll help you hang your coat.”

“Ah, well, yes, sorry. I’m taking it off now…”

“Eh? Ah, yes...”

…Jesus. What is this? Why are we getting very nervous even though Chiaki is just taking off her coat?

I quickly hung Chiaki’s coat on the rack next to the entrance. After that, I told Chiaki that I’ll put my bags in my room on the second floor first.

“…Phew.”

At the same time that I closed the door, I took a simple deep breath. Then, I looked at myself in the mirror unintentionally. So, just as I’m about to tidy my bangs, …I realized it.

“…What the hell am I doing…”

I’m slightly pissed at myself for being more or less excited. Why am I being such a show-off in front of a “friend” of mine? How disgusting.

No, I guess my love of cleanliness is a bit too much if I’m hating myself over tidying my look. However, it’s because the person in question is Chiaki. …It’s because she’s a girl that confessed to a guy like me before. I think I couldn’t dishonor her feelings, …and I need to be a man.

“…!”

I put my hands on my cheeks and squeezed them hard. Honestly, I did a bit too much and left some marks. …Who cares. I deserved it.

I picked a couple games that are great to play with her and walked down. In the meantime, I tried to set my brain to remove all those weird moods before heading back to the living room.

“Chiaki, do you want to play anything? Well, not that there are many options.”

“Eh? Ah, alright. …Let me see.”

After I put the games onto the table, Chiaki, who’s still a bit anxious, stood up from the sofa and started looking at the games I selected. Then, a few seconds later, …she suddenly chuckled.

I blinked my eyes since I don’t understand what’s happening. Chiaki pointed at the table and gave me a bitter smile.

“Well, …it’s because…I have every single game here as well.”

“Hey, ..eh? Really?”

“Yeah, not even a single difference. …Our tastes are this similar. What a refreshing sight.”

“…Perhaps.”

We glanced at each other and can’t help but burst into laughter. Then, after a while, we finally…adjusted that “Game Hobby Club” atmosphere.

(There are not many options for party games recommended for multiple players offline, which is quite unexpected. I guess we still can’t tell the difference just because of our varying values on “moe” elements.)

“Yeah. Well, I’m okay with playing games that I have too. However, with this opportunity, I do want to play something I haven’t before. Ah, Keita, why don’t we play a downloaded game?”

“Ah, you’re right. Wait, I’ll open the console now.”

“Understood. Ah, Keita, if we’re playing together, shouldn’t we just sit in front of the sofa directly to be closer to the TV…”

“Ah, you realized that? I feel like it’s weird to ask guests to sit on the ground, so I didn’t say it. But, to be honest, it’s easier to play when we’re sitting below. At least I sit there when I’m playing with Kousei.”

“Yes. Well, I’ll be like you guys.”

Chiaki came down from the sofa and sat down on the carpet with a pose that allows her legs to relax. I opened the console and prepared two controllers. After that, I sat down cross-legged next to her. …Unbelievably, we don’t feel nervous at all. Instead, I can even feel a sense of relief that resembles that when you’re playing games with your family.

I used my controller to move through the menu and showed a list of downloadable games. Then, we chatted about “hey, I got that too” and “this looks like an indie game with moe illustrations, but the content is excellent.” I guess this is the break between games.

So, after we browsed everything, Chiaki showed particular interest in one of them.

“Ah, this one! Isn’t this that difficult-type spy action game? <S Plan>? I miss it. Initially, I was a bit curious, but I ignored it since my game development had reached the most important stage.”

“That’s a shame. This one is cheap, simple, but super fun. Kousei and I were addicted to it for a while. …Even though we forgot how to pass the actual levels. You want to give it a try?”

“Yeah!”

Due to that, based on Chiaki’s preferences, we started playing this slightly tricky indie game. …Well, I guess it fits our twisted temper since we didn’t go for the cliché and just play party games happily.

The game started right away after we learned the necessary controls in the tutorial level.

In <S Plan>, your goal is to control a weak stick figure that dies easily and pass holes and traps that will instantly kill you. The level is complete once you reach the end. It counts as a 2D action game. Basically, all you need to do is move and jump. Since the character is agile, it depends a lot on the player’s control skills. However, teamwork is more important in multiplayer mode, so it’s excellent for brothers to yell and play together.

(But that’s why I can never imagine myself playing this game with someone other than Kousei…)

My worries were unreasonable, and I’m progressing through the levels with Chiaki quickly. The two of us definitely aren’t those professional gamers. However, a game that emphasizes teamwork over skill suits us well. At last, Chiaki even thought that “it’s not as hard as the comments said.” …You got to be kidding me. When I’m playing with Kousei, the number of times we died often reach three figures on challenging levels.

However, we died less than 10 times on challenging levels this time. The two of us have no issues understanding what we need to do at that moment and the help required. Aside from simple mistakes and traps designed for newbies, we didn’t die on anything else.

It’s quite an incredible experience to not feel stressed in a multiplayer game. This is different than a skilled player walking you through the mission. With the sense of achievement of the singleplayer and the unity of multiplayer, I can feel both feelings wholly and miraculously.

-Honestly, this is the first time that I had a “refreshing” gaming experience.

Chiaki seems to be the same too. She’ll look over every time we beat a level with sparkling eyes. I wholeheartedly agree with her. It’s super fun.

So, Chiaki and I became addicted to <S Plan> and kept playing.

So, it’s been 40 minutes since we started. The traps in the levels are getting pretty brutal. Our hands are slowly grabbing the controller harder and harder. …At this point, Chiaki kept her eyes focused on the screen, yet she suddenly said this to me.

“Keita, there’s something that…I might have to apologize to you.”

“Hmm? What’s wrong? Did you get yourself into a spot where you can’t press the switch? Just kill yourself and restart again.”

“No, it’s not that. I have no issues with the game. Alright, I got the switch.”

“Oh, thanks, the door’s opened. Well, all I need to do is get my character to the end. I need to focus.”

“Yeah. Give it everything you got, Keita. Ah, about the thing that I want to apologize…”

“Hmm? What is it?”

I controlled my small and weak character cautiously to the most formidable challenge towards the end. I have to pass through a series of floating mines. So, there are 4 mine areas in total. I got through three of them, and only the last one remained. I adjusted my breath, and then…I carefully yet daringly charged into the mines-

“Keita. Even if you rejected me, I still love you.”

-I blew up. My stick figure was blown to pieces, and the respawned character immediately appeared on the checkpoint. …One of the best parts about this game is that it’s easy to challenge again. There’s no concept of disability or game over, …unless the player gives up.

“…I’m sorry. But, …this is what I truthfully and sincerely thinks.”

Chiaki continued calmly when her eyes are still on the screen.

“…Really?”

I flatly answered as I prepared to go through the level again. …This time, I can’t even get through the first mine area out of the 4. I kept repeatedly dying due to simple mistakes …My hands are sweating profusely.

I sighed. After I wiped the controller with my sleeves, I threw it to Chiaki.

“Change of hand. Chiaki, please.”

“…I understand.”

Both of us still avoided eye-contact and just communicated with each other. After Chiaki got the controller, she was like my first playthrough and passed the three mine areas with ease. It’s only one last area away from the end.

“…Chiaki. If that’s the case, there’s something that I need to tell you as well.”

“…What is it?”

Chiaki stared at the screen as she answered me, and then she adjusted her breaths in preparation for the final jump. So, when she finally started dashing towards the mines, …I told her.

“Even if she rejected me, I still love Tendou-san.”

Of course, Chiaki’s character-

-It passed the mines brilliantly and cleanly. She reached the end.

At this point, she turned towards me and gave a faint smile before giving the controller back.

“Yes, I know it.”

“…Really?”

I received the controller from her hand. …It’s dry, and there’s no sweat at all.

Chiaki grabbed the controller I gave her again as she looked at the screen like nothing happened. We started the next level.

I started the game again like her. …So, both of us matched each other perfectly and passed through the middle section as we spoke once more.

“…Why do we have to be this similar ?”

“…I can’t deal with it..”

“Yeah, this sucks. Jesus.”

Chiaki answered me with a tone that sounds like she’s laughing and crying at the same time.

After that, Chiaki and I made the same mistake in the game. The ripped-apart character respawned at the checkpoint, and then we started again.

Even though she’s paying full attention to the game, Chiaki still threw a question at me.

“…Keita, how many times can one challenge something again in reality?”

To her question, I hesitated for a while, …and then I replied honestly.

“…Of course, it’s just like this game.”

“You mean there’s no limit?”

“I think it depends on what the challenging person thinks.”

“…I guess you’re right. Ow.”

Then, even though Chiaki and I weren’t careless, we still failed. It looks like this level will be pretty tough. While we played it again and again, the two of us couldn’t overcome the obstacle. We spent a miserable 10 minutes at the same place, yet there’s no hope.

However, Chiaki suddenly chuckled at times like this.

“…What’s wrong?”

“No, it’s nothing. I was just thinking…both of us are a pain in the butt.”

“…After all, if we encountered a situation like this, you want to pass it, right, …no matter what.

“Yes. I want to pass through the level when I’m in something like this, …no matter what.”

Finally, we exchanged our thoughts like this.

Today, …we only kept on fighting through the impregnable level silently until Chiaki has to go home.

*

“Ugh, by the way, I’m really unwilling to admit defeat. …We still didn’t finish it after all this time…”

Chiaki fell onto the bench deflatedly after we arrived at the nearest station.

“It can’t be helped.” I exhaled some white fumes and smiled bitterly.

“It’s because that level ultimately emphasizes skill instead of teamwork. It’s hard for ‘follow-up’ players like us to get through it.”

“Ughhh, …but Keita, didn’t you finish it a year ago?”

“Kousei did it.”

“Uwah, this older brother is useless.”

“Shut up.”

I kicked Chiaki and got her to give up some space on the bench. Then, I sat next to her.

It’s already past 6pm. When I stare at the sky, the clean air of the winter is adorned with beautifully sparkling stars. It’s literally like…the night when she confessed to me.

Chiaki stared at the starry sky next to me as well and mumbled.

“…This feels unbelievable.”

“What?”

“…That night, when I confessed and rejected by you.”

“………….”

I quickly fell silent. So, Chiaki, who’s still staring at the night sky, smiled cheerfully.

“…For some reason, that night became a treasured memory in my heart.”

“A treasured memory? Even though…I gave you such a terrible answer?”

“Yes. Even though you rejected me, …ahh, that’s indeed a great night. I still remember it from time to time nowadays….”

…Chiaki doesn’t look like she’s forcing herself or trying to be considerate to me. This is real. She’s sincerely thinking that. After a while, Chiaki kept that smile as she continued.

“Although I was always perplexed by it, I guess I slightly understand the reason today.”

“…What is it?”

“I’m not telling you.”

“Ehh…”

I was left at a cliffhanger at this point. Just as I’m giving her an unsatisfied look, Chiaki put her tongue out and told me.

“Keita, I think you should worry about ‘Chiaki Hoshinomori’ a bit more.”

“I do. Sometimes, I’ll think about what’s the best way to prepare a seaweed broth.”

“Yep. Instead of minding the guilt of you rejecting me, you should first apologize for every mean thing you said.”

“Hey, here comes the bus, dried goods.”

“Your sincerity towards girls is actually pretty biased! Am I right!”

Chiaki complained as she stood up from the bench helplessly. We waited for the bus to arrive together.

I followed and stood next to her as I stared at the sky once again. …I scratched my head and mumbled to myself quietly.

“Well, …I had a lot of fun today.”

Regrettably, I think Chiaki heard what I said clearly. So, she plopped her head down embarrassingly and answered me.

“Uh, …me too.”

“R-Really?”

“Y-Yeah.”

…Crap. I feel like we’re returning to the awkward mood at the start of the date.

Just as we’re becoming restless, the bus arrived. It’s almost empty.

The old door is struggling to open. Chiaki bid her farewell with a “bye” and waved at me a bit shyly.

“See you at school, …ah, and the Christmas party as well. I’m looking forward to that!”

“Ah, yeah, me too. Bye, Chiaki, see you at school.”

Chiaki stepped on the stairs of the bus. …During this time, she seems she suddenly remembered something. So, she took a step back and turned towards me. Chiaki waved her hands and asked me to come over.

“Ah, right, Keita, I forgot something! I forgot something!”

“Hmm? Eh? What, don’t tell me you forgot something in my home-“

I was a bit anxious. So, I unintentionally got a bit close to Chiaki. At this second-

“----“

-Something warm and moist touched my cold cheeks.

“…Eh?”

I touched my cheeks and froze there. As for Chiaki, ..although her face is as red as a tomato too, she’s still looking pretty imposing. She even smiled at me, mischievously.

“W-Well, if we’re rechallenging this, I have to keep up my attacks better than last time. Yes!”

After she said that, Chiaki didn’t bother to wait for an answer and got on the bus immediately.

“…………”

So, just as my mouth is opening and closing repeatedly, the door closed entirely. Chiaki took a seat near the door, and then she waved at me from the window a little embarrassingly.

“…………”

I waved at her when the bus is starting to move slowly. …Then, I saw her disappear. Finally, when the bus was gone entirely…

“…Phew! AHHHHHHHH!”

I collapsed onto the bench. …My freezing cheeks are burning like fire now. Although I almost died from embarrassment, I still wrapped my hands around my head and started twisting around.

“No, no, no, this is too, uh, a bit, how should I put it? Well…!”

Embarrassment, guilt, anxiety, confusion, …and a sense of happiness that I feel sorry for. All of these emotions mixed together and overwhelmed me. I ended up struggling at the lonely bus stop for a while.

“AHHHHHHH! My chest! My chest feels so itchy, and I can’t handle it! UWAHHHHH, what is this! What is this!”

I kept scratching my brain and chest until I’m exhausted. …I bet Chiaki’s so embarrassed that she’s kicking her legs around on the bus as well. Seriously, what is this?

The loner that’s struggling because someone did something unexpected to him, and the loner that’s struggling because she did something she wouldn’t do.

-The northern starry sky that’s sparkling above us is just as beautiful today.