Chapter 165: Her father came to pick us up for our first date.

Chapter 165: Her father came to pick us up for our first date.

When I woke up on this chilly morning, I was in very high spirits. You see, today is the day of a special big event my first date with Haruka.

Why, going out i-is that what a date is!? A-ah, yes Im coming, Im coming! Please take me with you, Shinichirou-kun!

In response to my invitation the other day, Haruka, while surprised and blushing, accepted it with an adorable smile.

And now, the much-awaited day of our date has arrived. I had planned to go to the meeting place with plenty of time to spare, but

(Why how did this happen!?)

Im currently sitting in the backseat of a luxurious car. My stomach is twisting with anxiety over this surreal situation.

Is something the matter, Niihama-kun?

The driver who responded to my voice was none other than Harukas father, Shijouin Tokimune, the president of a nationwide bookstore chain.

W-why did you go through the trouble of driving for me? When you were waiting in front of the house like that, my heart felt like it was going to jump out

Yes, thats right. I left the house all excited, but waiting for me was this overprotective president in a luxury car.

Frozen like a stone in the doorway, Ive arrived at this point after being told, Youre meeting Haruka, right? Ill drive you, and getting into the car.

So, I just wanted to talk with you a little. I heard its your first date with Haruka today, so I decided to play chauffeur.

N-no, you didnt have to play chauffeur! What kind of absurd situation is this?!

The last time I saw you was that night when Haruka had recovered. I received a call from Fuyumi-kun and hurried home with my wife

Tokimune-san spoke calmly as always, but its even more terrifying, and my body wont stop trembling.

When I arrived home, the scene that greeted me was Haruka, who had regained her health, embracing you. I didnt know whether to be moved to tears by the sight of my daughter back to normal, or to explode in anger at you, embracing my daughter before us, her parents. My emotions were all over the place.

U-um

As Tokimune-san continued his narrative, my shirt grew increasingly damp with cold sweat.

Huh?

I already know that the feelings you have for Haruka are not just some carefree high school crush. But thats precisely why Im asking. Has your resolve changed?

With a smile on his lips, Tokimune-san asked me as if he was emphasizing the importance of my answer. It was as if he was completely sure of what my answer would be.

No, it hasnt changed.

In response, I spoke my honest feelings clearly. To be honest, I didnt have any other answer in mind.

Ive finally achieved my long-cherished wish to walk alongside Haruka-san. From now on, as long as Haruka-san doesnt grow tired of me, I want to stay by her side.

Hmm, youre as unreserved as ever. You really dont have the typical cuteness of your age, right from the first time I met you.

Despite his words, Tokimune-sans smile deepened, clearly pleased.

So, from now on, prove it. Prove that youll cherish Harukas feelings and take care of her.

Huh

I was taken aback by the words he gently spoke.

He forgave me?

The man who clearly loves his daughter, Tokimune-san, is willing to accept me, a man, walking alongside Haruka in the turbulent journey of life?

This man, who loves his daughter so much, the president of this major corporation who has faced the ups and downs of life with a keener eye than anyone elsehas recognized that I have the right.

The joy that surged from my chest at this fact was beyond words.

I finally gained this mans approval

Yesss! I will definitely make Haruka happy! And someday, Ill do my best to call you Dad!

What the heck are you talking about?! Youre getting ahead of yourself, you idiot!

With my ideal future inadvertently slipping from my lips, Tokimune-san got angry.