Chapter 39: Cultural Festival Trailer

Chapter 39: Cultural Festival Trailer

The next morning:

Driving to Miyukis house, I spotted her twisting and turning in front of her home.

Perhaps she was immensely embarrassed about yesterday, because even after spotting my car, she couldnt bring herself to approach it.

*Honk.*

As I briefly honked the horn while pulling up in front of Miyuki, her shoulders jerked noticeably.

She carefully opened the passenger-side door and offered a tentative greeting.

Hello... Matsuda-kun... You came early today?

I told you Id come early, didnt I? Why do you look so down? Hurry up and get in.

Okay...

She climbed into the car slowly and cautiously placed her hands on her lap.

Unable to resist a snicker, I playfully tousled Miyukis bangs.

Ah...! I told you not to do that...!

I suddenly wondered why she looked so cute when she complained in that tiny voice.

Did you get home alright yesterday?

Home...? I got home just fine...

When you left after telling me to take care, I noticed you were having trouble finding your keys.

.....

Miyukis face instantly flushed red.

She only stuttered without saying anything more, seemingly quite embarrassed about calling me by my name yesterday.

Seeing Miyuki turning her head toward the window just like yesterday, I chuckled and started the car.

As we entered the road leading straight to the school after circling the neighborhood, Miyuki asked in a puzzled tone.

Wheres Tetsuya-kun...? Arent you picking him up?

Uh.

Why...?

Sometimes, lets just go like this.

As I subtly revealed my feelings, Miyuki swallowed hard and pursed her lips. She paused for a moment and said,

But, what about Tetsuya-kun

It seems you feel guilty for leaving him alone. Well, you should get used to it from now; well be going just the two of us not just occasionally, but every day.

I entertained the thought that it might not be bad to slide my hand between Miyukis thighs as we passed by Tetsuya. A scenario where Miyuki, her body heating up, spots Tetsuya and is startled, getting even more excited by a sense of immorality

That wouldnt be so bad.

I told him I have somewhere to be this morning, so he should go on his own.

So, you said youre going somewhere with me?

No.

Then I should be receiving a message soon...

Buzzz!

Right as Miyuki finished speaking, her phone buzzed.

It must be Tetsuya. Hell probably ask her to go with him, as expected.

I glanced at Miyuki and asked,

Is it a text or a call?

A text

What does it say?

Hes asking if Im awake

Miyuki hesitated for a moment as her hand hovered over her phone.

Miyuki seemed to be contemplating an excuse to send to Tetsuya.

After a moment of deep thought, her fingers swiftly moved across the screen.

Haah...

A long sigh escaped Miyukis lips shortly after. It seemed she felt guilty for sending a lie.

Must be challenging because I had already lied in advance, making it difficult for her to provide an honest explanation.

I understand her feelings completely. She may be consumed with guilt now, but in time, she might become numb to the lies. She might even find it thrilling.

Hes the jerk who rejected your brave confession. Its only right for him to be on the receiving end of this, so dont feel guilty.

I extended my palm towards Miyuki, who was shuffling uncomfortably.

Give me your hand.

Its about time for that jealousy-inducing clich, the love letter, to make its appearance... or perhaps I should wait a little longer.

We cant leave ticket checking solely to Matsuda-kun. If hes alone, he might just skip it and go enjoy the festival himself.

Ignoring Miyukis playful jab beside me, I slid my chair back and stood up.

Miyuki asked,

Where are you going?

The convenience store.

Could you get me a strawberry milk? And one for Makoto too... Ill give you the money when you get back.

Makoto? Whos that? Ah... Its the vice president sitting next to us, flashing those bright eyes.

With an expression dripping in annoyance, I nodded and strolled out of the classroom. Behind me, I could hear the soft conversation between Miyuki and Makoto.

I still cant get used to it, no matter how many times I see it.

What?

Matsuda going to the convenience store... He used to send other people for stuff like that. Today, hes even buying for you and me.

Hes gotten a lot better lately, hasnt he? No more trouble-making...

Yeah. He seems like a different person.

Little do they know, my hearing is sharper than they think.

I heard every word.

***

During lunchtime and after-school activities... no matter where I go, the festival is the only topic of discussion.

Its a once-a-year event, so its understandable why people are excited. I am looking forward to it too, but

Ugh, this is getting old.

Im getting tired of hearing the same thing over and over. Why all the fuss? Just prepare quietly. Of course, I make exceptions for Miyuki, Renka, and Chinami.

Junior Matsuda, what will you be doing at the festival? Which group will you be participating with?

Chinami asks while holding a long shinai.

Ill be with my class, I reply after one practice round of pushing in all directions.

Really? Junior Miura also said hed be participating with his class... Whats your class planning?

A haunted house.

Oh...?

Chinami looks up at me with intrigued eyes. The difference in our heights is more than 30 cm, so the angle at which she lifts her head to look up is kind of amusing.

Suddenly, I became curious. Ive heard that Chinami is really skilled, but how does someone with such a small frame manage to dominate opponents?

There are no mixed-gender matches in middle school or higher-level competitions, which I get, but Ive heard that even the male kendo team members in their third year struggle against her during practice. Is her technique that good? Id like to see it for myself.

A haunted house... that sounds really interesting! Exciting, actually! Will you be dressing up as a ghost?

No, Ill be at the entrance, checking tickets.

Oh? Youre tall enough that youd make a great ghost, though... Its a shame.

I heard from other seniors that the Kendo Club is running a skewer shop when on break, you and Renka Senpai can come to the haunted house and have a look.

Uh... Ill think about it. Oh, speaking of which...!

She claps her hands as if shes just remembered something important.

Your pushing stance earlier was really good. Have you been practicing on your own?

No, Renka Senpai gave me some pointers yesterday.

Really? When?

When you went to check the equipment yesterday.

I see. Isnt she a better teacher?

No, Renka Senpais teaching is too harsh. I prefer the kind teachings of my sensei.

Hehe.

Chinami bursts into a contented laugh, placing her hand on her hip as she chides me.

Renka, being the captain of our Kendo Club, naturally shows a stern attitude. Shes also the ace, so you should be grateful for her instruction. Dont you think?

While saying that, a smile formed at the corners of Chinamis mouth, indicating she wasnt entirely displeased.

She considers Renka a good friend, but it seems like she also sees her as a bit of a rival...

If played right, this could be useful to me.

*

{ Devil: Hey, folks! First of all, I appreciate all of your comments and responses. Honestly didn't expect to get such a good reaction from y'all. Thank you. Also, if you like my translation and want to support me, you can do so on Patreon below. As thanks, patrons will get to read 3 chapters ahead of the normal release. /Devill

Thank you,

Devil }