Volume 7 - CH 2

"..."

The location was the IS preparation room in IS Academy. A facility near the arenas, and originally meant to house the 'Maintanence Branch' that was to be started amongst the second years.

At the moment, Tatenashi's imouto, Kanzashi was in there.

"...the responses from all the parts are so slow. Why..."

Kanzashi continued to hit the mechanical keyboard as she focused on the holographic screen.

--Using her own ability to materialize the incomplete machine.

This was what Tatenashi did when she used [Mysterious Lady].

Since my sister can do it, I can do it too. Such thoughts never entered Kanzashi's mind. But if she couldn't do such a thing, she would feel that she wouldn't be able to catch up to her sister's shadow at all. This inferiority complex was engraved deeply in her.

"Core compatibility hasn't increased at all...am I not suitable to...?"

Using the generic nature of the [Revive] as reference, this multi-ranged IS was called [Uchigane Nishiki][7B 1].

"...Fuu."

Unable to think of an answer, Kanzashi sighed, turned off the screen and kept her keyboard.

(Better go back and watch anime...)

Watching anime was an interest of Kanzashi that nobody else knew. She watched them all, whether new or old.

The genre was about Hero Battles, where the hero takes down the evil organization. Personally, Kanzashi liked these types of anime that were simple and easy to understand.

When she was young, the picture book she liked was of course 'Momotarou'. As a side note, Tatenashi liked 'Urashima Tarou'.

(What should I watch today...)

Just when Kanzashi was thinking of this and got ready to leave the preparation room.

"Yo."

The automatic door opened, and standing outside was Ichika.

He was holding onto canned drinks.

"Red tea and grape juice. Which one do you prefer?"

"..."

Kanzashi ignored him and left the preparation room. Ichika hurriedly followed her.

"Hey."

"..."

"I'm talking to you."

"..."

"Kanzashi-san."

She suddenly stopped in her tracks.

"Don't call me by my name..."

"Uu--, then, Sarashiki-san."

"Don't call me by my family name."

"Then—"

"Don't...bother me."

Kanzashi said and walked off.

Half a step away, Ichika followed her closely.

"Anyway, take the juice. I don't need two cans."

"..."

"Which one?"

"...Then, the grape..."

"Understood."

After saying that, Ichika handed the can over. Kanzashi reached her hand out to take it, and both their hands touched for a moment.

"...!"

Kanzashi felt like she got electrocuted as her body suddenly backed away. Her arm shrank back.

Seeing this, Ichika looked somewhat suspicious. Perhaps unhappy with this look, Kanzashi seemed to feel unhappy as she snatched the juice away.

"Don't walk so fast."

"..."

Kanzashi just took the juice and walked away quickly.

"Erm...that girl over there!"

"..."

"Wait wait wait! I'm talking about you!"

"...Wha-What do you mean?"

"You told me not to call you by your name."

"...I would rather have you call me by my name than call me like this..."

"Really. Then, Kanzashi."

Stare.

"...san."

"Fuu." Kanzashi sighed and increased her speed.

"Hey hey, Kanzashi-san, pair up with me."

"No..."

"Don't say that."

"...Anyway, why do you want to pair up with me...?"

"Huh? That's because..."

Tatenashi told him not to say her name, so Ichika didn't know how to answer.

2 seconds later, lights flashed in Ichika's mind.

"Because I want to see Kanzashi-san's IS!"

"!"

*PA!* A sharp slapping sound can be heard.

"...Huh?"

"..."

After that, Kanzashi ran away without looking back.

◆

"Uu..."

I went back to my own room, and rubbed the cheek that had just been slapped by Kanzashi.

"Why was she so angry..."

I started to think.

...

......

.........

"Ah, yes. That person's personal unit's still can't be used in actual battle."

I clapped my hands together. Speaking of which, Tatenashi-san seemed to have mentioned the same thing.

(...Hmm—)

I took the IS Academy terminology reference book from my bookshelf.

"Erm, what did the book say."

IS Academy started a class for the second years, the 'Maintenance Branch' that specialized in the development, research and assembly of IS. During the ranking tournaments of the Academy... the students, especially the second years and older, will get this Maintenance Branch to team up with them—as described in the book.

(Hm? If that's the case, couldn't Kanzashi get the Maintenance Branch to help her out?)

*GON* *GON*

"Here. Who's there?"

"It's me."

The demon who split the room's door in half appeared.

"Ichika-kun. You were thinking of something rude just now, right?"

"Hahaha. That's not true, Tatenashi-san."

"Nn-. Oh well, I brought cream puffs over. Wanna have some?"

"Ah, okay. Please come in."

I led Tatenashi-san into my room.

The thick reference book's still laid out on the table, and Tatenashi-san looked over.

"Ah, Ichika-kun. Were you thinking of getting the maintenance branch to help out?"

"Ah, no, not me. I'm thinking of leaving Kanzashi-san's personal IS over to them."

"Uu—, that might be a little difficult."

Tatenashi-san said as she got up from the bed.

"What's that?"

"Kanzashi-chan, it seems like she wants to assemble her own unit herself."

"Huh?"

"She must be bothered that I did that before. There was no need to be mindful of that in the first place."

"Tatenashi-san...you assembled that machine on your own?"

"Huh? Sorta. I guess. I could do it since it was already 70% complete."

Wow...

She's not really Tabane-san number two, but this person's really outstandingly talented.

"But Kaoruko-chan gave me lots of suggestions. And Utsuho-chan was also present."

"Huh? Those two are of the maintenance branch?"

"Yup. The head of the third years and the elite of the second year."

Is-Is that so...

Let's not talk about Utsuho-san. I thought Mayuzumi-sempai was just a member of the newspaper club.

"Ichika-kun, you should let the maintenance branch check your IS. I saw the mock battle of the [Byakushiki]. The output of the thrusters don't match the gas reaction rate."

"Is-Is that so..."

Seeing Tatenashi-san take out the cream puff, I hurriedly moved off to prepare the red tea.

"Then how is it? About Kanzashi-chan."

"Uu—, I got hit."

"Huh?"

For some reason, Tatenashi-san looked shocked. While we're talking, the tea was ready.

"That kid probably wouldn't waste her strength on such a meaningless act..."

"Ah?"

"Did you touch her butt?"

"NO WAY!!"

"The breasts?"

"I SAY! WHY ARE YOU THINKING IN A SEXUAL HARASSING MANNER!?"

"Really, it can't be helped. If you say so, onee-san will let you touch hers."

"WAHH! WHY ARE YOU UNDRESSING! I-I'M-I'M GOING TO GET ANGRY!!"

"Ufufu, just kidding♪."

Re-Really...it's tiring...

"Here, have some. It's just a tea bag though."

"It'll be the world's most pleasurable taste if Ichika-kun gives me this."

"Saying such things again..."

"Yup, yup."

Really, this person's a lost cause.

"Speaking of which, that Kanzashi-chan...Ichika-kun, you're not interested in her?"

"Ah? You want me to go back after I got scolded?"

"Girls aren't good at refusing others, you know."

That's definitely a lie.

Using the simulated responses of the girls around me, if I'm to look for them after being scolded by them, such things will happen.

—If it's Houki.

"What. You want to be chopped up?"

Gya—

—If it's Rin.

"What do you mean? I'm going to kick you to death. Move aside! Really!"

Gya—

—If it's Cecilia.

"So you're the savage in your country...disappear right now."

Gya—

—If it's Laura."

"Do you know? Human brains can still run for a while after their heads are chopped off."

Gya—

—With Charl.

"..."

Gya—

Hey, it won't work at all!

"You're lying, Tatenashi-san."

"Is that so?"

Ahh, her attitude changed again.

"Anyway, you must work well with Kanzashi-chan. Also, you must assist her in the development of her IS."

"Is that an order...?"

"You like to be ordered around, right?"

"WHY DID IT END UP LIKE THAT!"

"Yaa~ don't be angry. I'm just joking."

...

"Mn, good tea. Thanks for your hospitality. I'll be going then."

Saying this (though there's a lot of cliché words), Tatenashi-san walked out of the room.

"Anyway, let's have some cream puffs..."

Ahh...nimble nimble.

"GU—!!?"

"Ahaha!! You got tricked! The cream was switched to mustard!"

I see Tatenashi-san's face smiling through the gap. There's a devil. The devil's here!

"TATENASHI-SAAANNNNN!!!"

"KYA~"

She closed the door and escaped.

I locked the door up, muttering five times in my heart not to open the door a second time.

◆

"..."

Inside her own room, Kanzashi covered her head with her blanket to avoid being disturbed by her roommate as she continued to watch the TV.

The small holographic screen appeared in the air, perfectly showing how the hero today beat the evil organization.

Though she was watching this with an emotionless look, she was actually agitated.

Yes. She had always been like this.

(I beat him up...)

She managed to control herself the first time.

But for some reason, she got agitated the second time she met him and hit him.

(Why did I do that...)

It's true that it was Ichika's fault that her IS was incomplete.

But he didn't have any ill intent.

(Am...I acting spoiled...?)

Seeing others take the initiative, Kanzashi would always feel that she was spoilt.

Born in the Sarashiki family, she realized the difference in ability between her and her older sister as she grew up.

Their relatives often expected things from both of them as such, making her feel dejected. However, she never cried about this to anyone, and her heart had started to seal off.

It was supposed to be like this, or at least that was how it should have been.

(Orimura...Ichika...)

That guy's presence remained in her.

She remembered that kind smile.

"..."

A mysterious feeling swelled up in her heart, and Kanzashi's face was colored like a cherry.

The hero anime on the TV screen finally ended too.

◆

"Hey!"

I moved forward with large strides to catch up with that person.

But on seeing that, that person increased her speed as she moved forward, almost looking like she was about to run.

"Wait up, Houki!"

"SHUT UP! DON'T CALL ME BY MY NAME! I WANT TO WORK ALONE!"

"Why... today's interview's supposed to be taken together. Of course it's better if we go together. And you may get lost anyway."

"Do-Don-Don't treat me like an idiot! How can I possibly get lost!"

By the way it's Sunday. We're on our way to the magazine editorial branch where Mayuzumi-sempai's older sister works.

Of course, Houki and I are in casual clothes, and also...

"Houki."

"Wha-What!?"

"That outfit's not bad. When did you buy it?"

"Ah, mn...well, it was...not long ago, when I went out with a friend..."

The black mini-skirt went with the white blouse, and there was a light autumn jacket over her. The bright color of dandelion looked really elegant.

"The decoration on the chest...well, it's not bad."

"Is-Is that so? I-It's true. I was really mindful of that."

"Ah, even though I normally imagine Houki in the kendo attire, you're really quite feminine now."

"Fu-Fuu. I-I'm not. Don't think that I'll be happy after your praised me."

Houki said that as she folded her arms and looked away. Whaat—and I finally praised you too.

"Ah, ahh..."

Both of us took large steps as we walked on.

"..."

"Hm? What's wrong, Houki? Why are you looking here?"

"No-Nothing!"

"Is that so?"

We continued walking with large strides.

"...You-Your clothing's, rath-rather cool looking too..."

"Hm? What did you say?"

"No-Nothing! Nothing at all! Yup! Hahaha!"

"?"

Houki's so weird.

"But it's a little chilly today. Want to get something from the convenience store over there?"

"Y-Yeah? No, wait, hold on...mmmm."

"?"

"If-If-If you're cold, can-can't we just hold hands?"

She sounded somewhat forceful, but Houki lowered her head and reached her hand out.

"Ah, that's good. Let's do it then."

"Ah!"

I grabbed Houki's hand and headed down the subway ticket gantry.

"Uu..."

Houki continued to remain silent until we reached the editorial branch.

...

......

.........

"Hello. I'm the deputy chief editor of [Infinite Stripes], Mayuzumi Nagisako. Glad to meet ya."

"He-Hello, I'm Orimura Ichika."

"I'm Shinonono Houki."

The room that was prepared for the interview was rather spacious, the three sofas that were as red as sliced tomatoes were arranged in a triangle.

"Well, we'll start with the interview, and then the photo shoot."

After saying that, she easily flipped the pen-shaped IC recorder.

Nagisako-san was dressed in a two-toned checkered suit, and the slender legs that extend out from her tight-fitting skirt were really beautiful.

"Then, I'm going to start with the questions. Ichika-kun, what are your thoughts of entering a girls school?"

"That's the first thing you ask...?"

"Can't be helped. People are wondering about that. According to the readers' feedback, there's a lot of people asking this."

"Well...I'm bothered that there are very few toilets to be used."

"GU! Aha, ahahaha! My sister told me before. Looks like it's true! The harem king who's not interested in the opposite gender!"

Ha-Harem king...

"Alright. Are there any permits to enter this kingdom?"

"ARE YOU DAN!?"[7B 2]

"Then, it's about Shinonono-san's onee-san—"

"..."

Houki stood up. Same as ever, anything about Tabane-san's a taboo subject to her.

"...I won't give you the dinner voucher, you know?"

"Uu!"

Houki again sat back on the sofa.

"Such a good kid. Ufufu, I like kids who're really honest...well, how do you feel about getting your personal unit from your older sister? Do you intend to be a representative cadet of a certain country? Do you hate Japan?"

"I'm grateful to be able to get [Akatsubaki]...right now, I have no intention of being a representative cadet even though I've received many invitations. As for Japan, well, I was born here, and grew up here, so I don't really hate it."

Houki continued to answer every single one of Nagisako-san's questions fully. As expected of her. She does everything seriously.

"Okay, okay, Ichika-kun and Shinonono-san, who's stronger?"

"Of course it's me!"

"Is that so?"

"Huh, well..."

Houki's chances of winning in a mock battle are slightly higher.

"Ahh, that's bad. How can you be a hero if you can't even beat a girl?"

Nagisako-san smiled but didn't say anything. Feeling bothered, I looked away.

"Well, I don't need to be a hero...I'm just a fighter."

"Oh, that's an excellent line. This sentence can make it into a movie."

She pointed her finger in a lens-shape as she continued to look at me and smile. Nagisako-san's really energetic like Kaoruko-san.

"Then, Orimura-taichou[7B 3]. Please tell everyone your feelings on the battlefield."

"We-Well..."

I secretly glanced at Houki.

If possible, I really don't want to say something embarrassing, but it can't be helped.

"I'll protect my friends!"

"YES! Nice going, man!"

It's unknown since when did I become a captain.

"Speaking of which, Orimura-kun belongs to the student council, right? Tatenashi-chan, she's really cool[7B 4], isn't she?"

Cute...I haven't heard that saying often recently.

"Of course not. She's making me suffer. I already have IS special training, and she still sends me to work with the other clubs."

"Ah, Kaoruko's complaining that you didn't go to the news club."

"Well, hm, that...I get snitched everytime."

"Ahh, it can't be helped then. Kaoruko was never born with luck. She drew handkerchiefs 20 times in a lucky draw and nearly didn't cry out."

Just like that, our random conversation ended, and now we're moving to the photo shoot.

"We're going to the photography room underground. There's a changing room there, so just change your clothes there. We'll take photos once you're done with the make-up.

"Ah? We need to change clothes too?"

"Yup. My head will roll if you don't wear the sponsors' clothing."

Saying that, she used her head to imitate the action of her head being sliced off.

Ahh...adults really have it tough...

"Then, let's go!"

◆

Entering a different changing room from Ichika, Houki couldn't see the clothes that was to be changed into as she folded both hands in front of her.

"Ahh..."

She sighed and blushed as red as a cherry.

('I'll protect Houki!' Huh? That guy, really!)

Secretly chuckling and knocking on the wall wildly, the white wall bent in slightly after 4 heavy hits.

Considering everything to be beneficial to her and missing the point, it seems that the teenage express went berserk and couldn't stop.

"That's right...that's right...! Ufufu, ufufufufu!"

Holding this model clothing, Houki suddenly realized that the design of the clothing was really daring.

"Uu...thi-this..."

The blouse exposed a lot of the cleavage, and that's topped off with a cute miniskirt and a short-sleeved leather coat.

(Do-Do-Do I have to wear this!? Me-Me!? Of all people!?)

The clothing that Houki would never choose no matter what was right in front of her, and she was all petrified now.

(No, but, uu...thi-this may be a good chance...)

I want to show Ichika that I can go well with such clothing.

Such thoughts lingered in Houki. Two minutes later, she decided.

"Okay! I'm going to wear it!"

Houki clenched her fists and fiercely undid the buttons of her blouse.

...

......

.........

(I-Isn't Ichika done? If that's the case, this delicate fleeting feeling makes me unable to calm down.)

Sitting on the chair in the photography room, Houki felt somewhat anxious as she twisted about.

As a side note, her make-up was done by a professional cosmetician, and the light make-up created a dazzling beauty. The male assistants and cameramen that were in the room were staring at Houki, and felt really hot.

(I-If Ichika praises me, we'll be eating outside. I-I'll invite him. And I...I'll...)

Repeating these words in her mind like a spell, she heard the footsteps coming out from the dressing room.

"Sorry for being late. Ichika-kun, please enter."

Her heart started to beat.

(I-Ichika's here...Ichika's here...)

Houki couldn't remain calm any longer as she started to tug at her hair meaninglessly.

"Uu, isn't this weird?"

--Ichika's voice!

Houki's heart pounded even crazily.

"Of course not! It really suits you. Even for a teenager, it's stylish to wear a suit."

(Su-Suit!?)

At her own limit now, Houki decided to turn to where Ichika was.

"Ahh..."

Standing there was Ichika in a casual suit. In Houki's eyes, through the lens of a girl in love, the image shown was, so, so cool! It just looked great to her.

"I-Ichika..."

"O-Ohh. Sorry to keep you waiting, Houki."

"Uu, uu..."

She couldn't say anything as she got nervous.

Houki continued to play with her fingers, and finally formed her sentence and muttered.

"It-It really suits you...well, I say. It's not weird."

"O-Ohh. Thank you Houki. Well...that's rather cute."

"Cu-Cute—!?"

With her heart pounding like crazy, Houki's face was blushing with a fever. She closed her eyes to restrain this heat.

(I-Ichika praised me...Ichika praised me...)

Patting her hand on her face, she felt the heat.

Houki lowered her head and turned her back on Ichika to prevent him from seeing her looking so abnormal.

"Okay. We'll begin the photo shoot. Time's short, so let's finish this at one go!"

Nagisako-san clapped her hands. The workers answered 'Yes', and they finally started the photo shoot.

◆

(That really shocked me...)

During the photo shoot at the booth, Houki and I started making these kind of poses.

I tried my best not to look at Houki as I continued to pose for the photos.

(Unexpectedly, Houki changed a lot...the make-up's really great.)

When I saw her for the first time, I thought I mistook her for someone else due to that dazzle.

Not to mention the daring outfit that showed the cleavage and those revealing thighs made me panic.

(Houki wouldn't wear those kinds of outfits no matter what...)

Is that accidental, or is it a gap in expectations...anyway, it caused my heart to pound. How cute, I thought honestly.

(What's going on? There's an adult feeling not like usual. This is...)

I really can't find a suitable expression to describe her.

Anyway, my heart is racing. Better not exchange looks with Houki.

"Ichika-kun, please move closer to Shinonono-san. A little closer."

Nagisako-san suddenly said that.

I hesitated, but I still moved towards Houki, who was sitting on the same sofa.

"Er, erm, can this do?"

"Ahh—, no no. Closer, closer!"

"Huh!? No, but, if I get closer..."

I secretly glanced at Houki.

I originally thought that she would be angry at me, but unexpectedly, she rolled her eyes up at me and gave me a gentle expression to invite me in.

(Uu!?)

Since when did the Houki I know become so cute? I knew that already, but that's not fair.

I tried my best to calm the throbbing in my heart as I sat beside Houki.

"Ah~..."

Houki's arm got touched slightly, and she let out an unbelievably cute sound.

*DOKI!* My heart started to throb again.

"Mn~, sitting together like this still doesn't look good. Orimura-kun, hold Shinonono-san around the waist.

"...Wha?"

"Hold—her—by—the—waist. Hurry!"

"O-Okay!"

Nagisako-san suddenly spoke sternly, which surprised me, and I had to answer. What should I do?

(Well, a hand around the back of the waist. This hand, that...)

Somewhat panicking, I moved towards Houki to make it easier for me to grab her by the waist.

The moment I touched her body, wow...the sweet vanilla perfume spread out.

"!!"

I can feel my heart beating wildly, and in the midst of that, I used my trembling hand to grab Houki's waist.

"Ah..."

Houki let out a little whimper. The light dash of pink gloss on her lips looked like they were about to suck me in, and the breath that came from her mouth felt so bewitching.

(Calm-Calm down, calm down...)

This sentence echoed in my mind, and I inadvertently swallowed my saliva.

"Mn, it's not bad, but I want it to have more impact."

Moving her face away from the camera, Nagisako-san folded her arms in front of her chest and looked up.

"Okay. Let's have Shinonono-san hug Ichika-kun's head with both hands. Wouldn't that carry a lot of impact? Mn, okay. That's good!"

*PACHN!* The sound echoed throughout the room.

"Alright, let's do it!"

Nagisako-san smiled.

(Wait, isn't that too...)

Thinking about this, I turned to Houki. Our eyes met in a distance less than 10cm away.

"Ahh..."

We saw each other, Houki and me.

For some reason, it felt like time stopped at that moment, and both Houki and I didn't move.

(Houki's eyes are beautiful...)

The eyes that never changed since we were young were brimming with strength, but it's different now.

I don't know how to express this in words, but Houki had a hidden side that I didn't know of.

And no matter what, it intoxicated me.

"..."

*Kashan!*

The flash of light caused Houki and I to recover.

"Mnn~, that's a nice photo. Looks like there's no need to put the hands away."

"Th-This..."

"..."

Houki and I got embarrassed at that moment and quickly separated like a spring.

"..."

"..."

I don't know whether she understood our silence there, but Nagisako-san gave us a 'Really, you guys' smile, and earnestly gave us a thumbs up to tell us, good job.

"That's all! Good work! Next, you two can change clothes. Oh yeah, we'll give you these clothes, so just take them back!"

"I-I see..."

"Okay."

Houki and I answered ambiguously as we headed off in opposite directions.

"Then, I'll send you the data of the dinner voucher through phone. Please remember to tell me your e-mail address before you leave. That's all. It's been a tough day."

It's not just Kaoruko-san herself, even Nagisako-san's footsteps were so light. She had already started to transfer the data in the camera, and was using the Mobile Client to check.

"Th-Then, Houki."

"Wha-What's the matter?"

"Le-Let's go change."

"Ah, yeah."

Houki and I continued to maintain this delicate distance between us as we had this stiff conversation. We headed off to our changing rooms.

"..."

"..."

Of course, we remained silent on the way.

Anyway, let's fan off that heat on my face.

◆

(He-He praised me...Ichika praised me...he said that I was cute...)

Taking off her clothes in the changing room, Houki stared at herself who was only wearing her underwear and holding onto her own clothes.

Clenching her fists tightly, the white blouse that was covering the huge cleavage seemed to be pondering.

(And...not only that...)

The sensation she experienced when both of them exchanged looks floated up in Houki's head, dying her face red completely.

(Looking at each other at such a close distance...)

At that time, she was so nervous her heart was about to rip open, and now it was giving off a delighted sensation.

The distance where they could feel each others' warmth and breathing like lovers looking at each other and hugging made Houki's heart race.

(I-If, we're alone...)

The image of her kissing with Ichika unfolded in her mind.

"Nn..."

She closed her eyes and let her fingertips move across her lips.

It was a feeling that took the breath away from people, but it also gave her a sense of guilt that she shouldn't have done that.

(--Okay.)

She opened her eyes that were showing determination.

(I'll treat him to dinner on our way back. Are there any good restaurants nearby...)

Thinking about it, she searched through her memory.

(Oh yeah! My roommate Shizune borrowed a book that mentioned that name. Let's go there then. I remember it should be near the subway when we're about to go back.)

Remembering that the restaurant had the huge tagline 'Top 10 amongst the most popular restaurants for couples', Houki's face started to heat up again.

(I can definitely do it today...calm down, invite him. Mn.)

Repeating these words over and over again, Houki finally recovered and continued changing.

She was smiling brightly, either because of embarrassment or happiness.

...

......

........

On the way back, Houki and Ichika were walking together side by side.

Both of them were carrying the clothes they wore for the photo shoot today in the bags.

"We-Well, that was a refreshing experience."

Perhaps somewhat aware that Houki's of the opposite gender, Ichika stuttered.

"Is-Is that so? That can be a kind of life experience."

Just like that, both of them continued with their unnecessary conversation as they headed down the stairs leading to the subway.

(Okay...I'm going to say it, I'm going to say it now...!)

Patting her hand hard on her chest, Houki decided to say it out.

"I-Ichika, well, how about we have dinner...well, erm, together..."

"Hm? Okay. But the cafeteria's still open now."

"No, it's not like that! Not in the cafeteria...well...out, outside, together..."

"Ah, outside? I see."

Ichika let out a 'mn' sound and started to ponder.

Houki stared at Ichika, and felt that the waiting time was really long.

"Alright then. It's rare to go out anyway. Let's go then."

"! I-I see...o-okay."

Houki's face suddenly dazzled, and she looked happy and yet embarrassed.

"Then, where will we go eat? How about the family restaurant in front of the station?"

"No-No! I know of a good place. Let's go there then."

"Oh, I understand."

Making a "Do your best" gesture in her heart, Houki started to get excited because she believed that she had won.

But...

"Ah, we're full today."

This sort of thing does happen at dinner time on Sundays, and the restaurant that magazine advertised, 'Coniferous Forest'[7B 5], is fully packed with customers.

And this place was basically filled with couples which made Houki even more sad.

"What now? It says here that we have to wait for two hours...how about we head back to the cafeteria?"

"No-No need! We'll just eat outside! O-Outside!"

(Bu-But what do we do? Amongst the other restaurants I know of, the rest include family restaurants, the eateries on the street at the shopping mall in front of the station and the ramen houses...)

But these restaurants wouldn't fit the mood she wanted.

Anyway, feeling really determined, Houki started to look through the information on the magazine.

(The 2nd rank stop's opposite the station...the 3rd one is too far away from here...erm, the 4th...)

Houki, who was troubled, had her hand raised by Ichika.

"Ah, I know of a good shop. Let's go."

(WA-WAAA!? MY-MY-MY HAND...I-ICHIKA, HE'S HOLDING ONTO IT...!?)

*DOKI!!* Her heart pounded intensively. It felt like her heart was about to pop out.

"From now on, we have to walk quite a bit. Any problem with that?"

"Ah, ah...whatever you say..."

Anyway, as she was concentrating on Ichika's hand, Houki could only answer blankly.

"..."

Having her hand held by Ichika, Houki's heart fluttered as she followed him from half a step behind.

This continued for more than 20 minutes, and they finally reached that shop.

"It's here."

"U-Un?"

Looking forward to a romantic eatery, Houki was stunned by the one in front of her.

"Gotanda's Eatery...?"

"Yup. I mentioned it before, right? It's my friend's house."

"I-I see..."

Houki's shoulders dropped dejectedly, but thinking about it carefully, this is Ichika we are talking about. It's possible for him to fulfill her expectations.

Haa...after sighing for a while, she entered the shop with Ichika.

"Oh, Dan."

"Huh!? Isn't that Ichika!?"

Half of the seats in the shop were taken. It was likely that Dan had to help out in his own shop, as he's serving food with an apron on.

"Hn? You brought a girl with you today?...Do-Don't tell me it's your girlfriend!?"

"Why do you look so happy?"

"No-Nothing...well, that's your girlfriend, right!?"

"Nope. Didn't I tell you in middle school. She's my childhood friend, the first one. Didn't you notice her at my birthday party?"

"Idiot. Do you know how much effort I spent asking for Utsuho-san's address..."

"What about Utsuho-san?"

"Ahem. Nothing at all. Oh yeah, ah, that. Shinono-san?"

Un, un, as Dan tried his best to remember her name while putting his folded arms in front of his chest, Houki finally answered.

"Shinonono Houki."

"Fuu, yes, I'm Gotanda Dan. Nice to meet you."

"Ah, ahh."

Houki suddenly remembered about Gotanda Ran, and started to feel wary.

(That Ichika. Maybe he came here to look for that kid...)

Thinking about this, Houki was led to her seat.

"Then, call me when you are decided on what to eat."

After that, Dan returned to the counter.

Houki read through the menu, and at the same time, initiated a conversation with Ichika.

"Do-Do you have any special recommendations?"

"Hm? Each one of them is good. If I have to choose one, it's the fish-based set meal...ah, the curry here's nice too."

"I-I see. Fuu..."

Though she said that, she couldn't help but continue to be mindful that 'Ran may come over'.

"Ah—well...ahem! I-Ichika?"

"Hm?"

Looking at the same menu, Ichika answered.

"We-Wel-Well..."

Say it! Just say it! I need to try my best!

...Well, though she tried to encourage herself in her heart, she still couldn't pull the trigger.

(Buck up, Shinonono Houki! What happened to that usual confidence?)

--O-Okay! I'm going to say it, say it! Say it out!

"SPE-SPEAKING OF WHICH, ICHIKA!"

"? What's wrong? Why so loud out of a sudden?"

"No-Nothing...sorry."

It seems that she was too forceful as the surrounding customers were all shocked.

Ichika continued to look at Houki, who was backing away in guilt, and said,

"Speaking of which, since the time you started going back to the kendo club, your figure's really good, Houki. Well, your posture's really straight, and the curve of the back is really elegant."

"Is-Is that so? Than-Thank you..."

Backing away, Houki continued to drink the water down in large gulps.

--Again, again, go me, go.

"I-Ichika."

"Hm?"

"Ah...that..."

Looking up, their faces met again, and Houki started to panic again.

--SAY IT!

"It-It's just that. Right now, I'm practicing how to cook, so if you don't mind, I'd like to let you try it the next time..."

--ARRRGGHHH!! WHAT AM I SAYING!

"Oh, is that so? Houki's cooking's great. I'll try it to my heart's content next time."

"O-Okay! O...yeah...yeah!"

Seeing Ichika smile so happily, Houki nodded her head as her ponytail swayed. She looked really happy too.

"Then, I'll order the Grilled Fish and fries set. What about you, Houki?"

Completely forgetting to order, Houki frantically turned to look at the menu.

"Mn, this Fried Wildfire Roasted Vegetable set looks good too. It's a specialty of theirs too...and the hotplate menu..."

"I see. Then, that'll be all."

Forgetting everything about Ran, Houki enjoyed the time she had alone with Ichika.

"Hey, Dan--, can you take our order now?"

"Coming."

"I want a grilled fish with fries set meal, and Houki wants the Wildfire Roasted Vegetables."

"Okay, got it. Please hold on for a moment."

After jotting down the order, Dan moved off into the kitchen.

--In the meantime, the owner of the Gotanda Eatery, Dan's grandfather, Gen saw Ichika over there.

"Hn? Ichika's over there!"

"Ah, that's right. You old devil."

"Oh. Wait, wait, is that his girlfriend? GAHAHA!"

"No, I guess that's not the case."

"HEY!! RAN!! HEEY!!!"

Gen shouted out loudly at the main house. A while later, a 'what-?' could be heard from the second level.

"COME DOWN TO THE SHOP! IT'S URGENT!"

"WHY—?"

"JUST COME DOWN!"

Ran's grandfather Gen shouted back at the roof loudly. Two minutes later, Ran moved from the main house to the entrance of the eatery.

On a side note, she was attracting a lot of attention with her looks even though she was in casual clothes.

"What's the matter, grandpa? I'm still doing my assignments—u, huuh!? Ichika-san!?"

"Yo."

"GAHAHAHA!!"

Gotanda Gen, who was laughing away heartily, suddenly stopped moving his hands that were cooking.

Ran compared her dress with Ichika and Houki, who were sitting opposite him, and rushed out of the entrance.

"WAAAAHHH!!"

"What? Hey, Dan. What's wrong with Ran!?"

"...Gramps, Ran's going to be mad at you later..."

"Ah? Why must she be angry with me?"

"Dad, it's time to continue working."

Saying that as she walked out was Dan's mother, Ren, the self-proclaimed lady boss of the Gotanda Eatery.

"Ara ara?[7B 6] Ichika-kun, is the girl with you your girlfriend?"

"I said she's not already."

"Is that so? That's good."

Ren showed a smile, and Ichika smiled wryly, not knowing what to do.

Ten minutes after that—

"We-Welcome, Ichika-san..."

Ran finally walked out. She was wearing something that looked like an apron.

Also, as the real poster girl appeared, all the men in the shop rioted.

"Huh? What's up, Ran. You got changed?"

"Y-Yes, well..."

"Are you going to go out now? It's quite late already."

"Wh-What's wrong with that!? Well, it's just my mood!"

Secretly glancing at Houki, Ran's confidence started to shrink further

(I still can't beat her...)

Most likely, it's because of the breasts.

(Uu...)

Ignoring Ran's delicate feelings as a girl, someone loudly called out Ran's name.

"HEY, RAN! THE FOOD'S DONE. HURRY UP AND SERVE UP."

"I-I GOT IT! DON'T BE SO LOUD, GRANDPA!"

Taking up the food at the counter, Ran turned around to look.

"Humph!"

"What...? Hey, Dan. You, what did you do to make her angry?"

"I DIDN'T !"

"YOU DON'T HAVE TO SHOUT BACK AT ME LIKE THAT!"

"AHH! WHY MUST IT BE ME! IT'S YOUR FAULT, GRANDPA! YOUR FAULT!"

Grandfather and grandson continued to bicker, and beside them, Ren waved her hand lightly to encourage her.

"So-Sorry to keep you waiting, I-Ichika-san."

"Oh, thanks."

She put Ichika's set meal down, and returned back to the counter to get Houki's.

"So-Sorry to keep you waiting...erm, it's been a long time."

"Mn, it's been a long time. Thanks."

Just like that, Ichika and Houki put down their dishes.

...Beside them, Ran continued to look at them, not moving at all.

(Wh-Why are both of them alone together...are-are they on a da-date?...uu, what should I do...)

Seeing Ran standing there blankly, Ichika opened his mouth and said.

"Ran? What's with you?"

"Wha, ah!? I didn't do anything!?"

"No, well...we can't really eat with you staring at us like that."

"Ah, ye-yes! I see! Aha-Ahaha, pardon me for my rudeness."

Ran slipped back into the kitchen. Ichika continued to stare at Ran strangely as he and Houki split the one-use chopsticks.

"Then, itadakimasu."

"Itadakimasu."

Both of them put their palms together, and after that, reached their chopsticks out.

"It's salmon today. Yup, it's good."

On the other side, Houki let out a 'oo' sound as she continued to chew on the Wildfire Roasted Vegetables.

"This...it's really good. I can taste the soy sauce in the vegetables."

"Yeah. That's really good."

"Do-Do you want to try some?"

"Is that good? Then I'll quickly—"

Saying that, Ichika reached his chopsticks out at Houki's plate. Ahem. Houki stopped him.

"I-I'll feed you..."

"Ah? Huh?"

"I-I SAID THAT I'LL FEED YOU!"

'"O-Oh..."

Held back by the sudden raise in volume, Ichika hesitated. Anyway, he nodded his head first.

Houki used her chopsticks to pick the meat and vegetables, and then used the left hand to bring it to Ichika's mouth.

"Here, ah~..."

"Ah~..."

"AAAHHHHH!!!"

Just when Ichika was about to eat it, a voice louder than Houki's echoed throughout the Gotanda's Eatery.

...It was Ran's voice.

"I'm telling you. Ichika got that girl already, so just give—AH!"

*BAM!* Putting his hand on Ran's shoulder, Dan tried to advise her, only to be stepped on the foot by Ran fiercely, and cringing in pain.

"Ah, ah. My fault—a-an."

"UUUU!!!"

Ran suddenly cried out. At that moment, the other customers seemed to be discussing about something, and there was quite the ruckus.

"What's with this?"

"Is it because of that young man?"

"Making Ran-chan cry!? UNFORGIVABLE!"

"THAT'S RIGHT!"

The male customers started to talk loudly, and Gen silenced them with a 'BE QUIET!'. Meanwhile, Houki was troubled due to the stares everyone was giving her. Now she can't do the 'Here, ah' thing again.

(WHY-WHY MUST IT ALWAYS BE LIKE THIS EVERY SINGLE TIME! EVERY, SINGLE TIME!)

*Gugugu*...the chopsticks that were being held tight sounded like they were about to break.

"Houki."

"What!?"

"Ah~"

She ate it.

Houki ate the fried prawn Ichika picked up for her in reflex.

"Well, the fried stuff's good too. Most likely, the way to cook it is really skillful."

"I-I see...that's true..."

Eating the fried prawn in large bites, Houki quickly swallowed the food and answered.

At that moment, Ran was standing behind the counter, glaring angrily at Ichika in tears, but Ichika didn't notice this stare as it was unfortunately too far away.

(I-Ichika fed me something...Ichika fed me something...)

Her heart pounding wildly, Houki's unable to control it as her face went completely red.

"The-Then, try some of the fried meat and vegetables."

Ignoring the chopsticks that were about to break, Houki picked it up and slowly picked up a portion of the Wildfire Roasted Vegetables.

Ah~...he ate it.

"Mn. Ngh ngh..."

"..."

Houki continued to stare at Ichika who was eating the Wildfire Roasted Vegetables. It wasn't something she cooked, but it couldn't be helped that she had this reaction.

"It's good!"

"Ye-Yeah!"

Houki's face suddenly bloomed like fresh floweres.

Both of them then continued to eat their own dishes, and Ran finally decided to move to the table.

"Eeeeeeeerrrrmmmm, doooooo yoooouuu neeed water..."

"Mn, thank you."

Ran took the glass cup with her trembling hand and poured water from the pot.

But the shocking image was still etched in her mind, unable to be shaken off, and she inadvertently splattered water all over the place.

"Wa!? Wha-What's wrong, Ran!? Are you alright?"

"Eeeeeehhhhh, iiiiiiiitttt's nothing, aha-ahahahaha..."

Her hand trembled even more as she poured water out for Houki, and large teardrops appeared in her eyes.

"Hey, Ran?"

"No-Nothing...nothing at all..."

Though Ran said that as she continued to wipe her tears and force the smile, her tears just continued to well up.

"Wha-What's wrong!?"

"U...UEEEEEEEEEHHH!!!"

Ichika got completely stunned, as he watched Ran dash out of the eatery.

"Wha-What's going on. Suddenly...sorry Houki. I've got to go out for a while."

Anyway, I've got to follow her. Ichika thought as he stood up. At that moment, several strong men stood up and blocked his exit.

"Murakami Shinzaburou, 42 years old, construction worker!"

"Yamamoto Juukura, 39 years old, civil engineer!"

"Yoshioka Shuichi, 47 years old, driver!"

"Terada Katsumi, 34 years old, Serviceman!"

"Chris Marcus, 29 years old, self-employed!"

The five men band suddenly announced their names and created a pose together. It seemed that the special effects of flames could be seen behind them.

"WE'RE THE RAN-CHAN FANCLUB ALLIANCE!"

"I-I see..."

"SO GO AND DIE!"

The five of them rushed up, but they were stopped by Gen's powerful arm.

"Huh, Gen-san..."

"Yo, Ichika...chase after her."

At that moment, Gen's veins started to pop out on his face. Since his cute granddaughter was made to cry, it couldn't be helped that he was raging.

"Ha-Haha...hahaha..."

Though the action hadn't ended, it was better to announce the weather report first.

As the grandfather's rage was completely burning, there would be a bloody maelstrom in the nearby area. People who were intending to go out, please make sure not to get involved.

◆

"Fugu...uuu..."

At a swing in a nearby park, Ran was alone, and dejected.

Her face was still full of tears up till now, and her eyes were all red now.

(Uu...Ichika-san's, he's going out with Houki-san...)

*Creak*...*creak*...the swing swayed about lifelessly, just like how Ran was feeling right now.

"Haa..."

Sighing, she took out the ticket from her purse.

It was an invitational ticket for the school festival of the traditional ojou-sama school[7B 7], Saint Marianne School, where Ran studied.

(I wanted to give this to Ichika-san...)

It's now a reality that can't happen anymore. Thinking about this, Ran wanted to use both hands to rip this ticket forcefully.

"Heey! Ran~!"

"Huh...? I-Ichika-san...?"

Seeing Ichika run over here while panting, Ran hurriedly released both hands and tried to hide the ticket she was about to rip behind her.

"Haa, haa, haa...so you were here..."

"I-Ichika-san, why..."

"Haa...haa...either way, I was worried since you ran off just like that."

Adjusting his erratic breathing, Ichika looked up.

His face looked like he got beaten badly, and it's all swollen.

"I-Ichika-san!? Your face, what happened!?"

"Ah!? It's nothing, well...I just fell. Hahaha."

Ran immediately realized that he was lying, and naturally thought that her grandfather did it.

"So-Sorry! It was all my fault..."

"Hm? Why?"

"Be...Because..."

He left Houki behind, and got beaten by grandpa. Even so, Ichika still ran out to look for Ran, and Ran was really touched by Ichika's gestures.

The sadness disappeared like it was a lie. At the same time, emotions welled up in her.

(I-Ichika-san's really kind...)

*DOKI DOKI!* The heartbeat sounded loudly in her heart. Ran could feel this agitated sensation of pain in her as she held both hands tightly together.

(May-Maybe I can say it out now...)

Deciding this, Ran forcefully sucked in her lips and lifted her head up.

"We-Well, Ichika-san!"

"Yeah."

"Th-This! If you don't mind, please read it!"

Saying that, she handed over the Saint Marianne School anniversary ticket.

"Hm? Ah, Ran's school is having its school anniversary?"

"Ye-Yes."

Ichika checked the date of the event. Huh? He thinks.

(This day. I think it's the same date as the dinner voucher I got from Mayuzumi-san...)

Ichika pondered.

(But it doesn't matter. The school festival will end before nightime.)

Thinking that, he decided to accept the invitation.

"Thank you. I'm keeping this then. I'll definitely come over."

"Ye-Yes! Aaaa, errrmm, that day, I'll, ah, lead the way! I'll guide you through. Can you give me a call once you reach the school?"

"Hm? Aren't you the Student Council President, Ran? Won't you be busy that day?"

"No no! It's alright! No problem! Everyone in the Student Council's outstanding!"

It's alright for me not to show myself! Ran said that as she stood upright.

"Really. I'll call you then."

"O-Okay!"

Seeing the radiant smile on her face, Ichika relaxed.

He didn't know the reason, but he was mindful that she was crying because of him.

On the other hand, as for Ran, her face that was full of tears was now showing delight.

(It's great, it's great, it's great! This is the school festival date I always dreamt of! It's really great!)

A ticket per person. It's every girl's wish in Saint Marianne school to invite their boyfriends, and Ran's maiden heart fluttered.

Of course, there will be a strict inspection by her female friends, but Ran was confident about it, thinking 'There won't be any problems if it's Ichika-san!'.

Besides, since he's 'The only guy in the entire world who can use IS', the Japanese government relaxed the restrictions, and he's often seen on magazines or TV adverts.

A while back, Ran was talking to her friends that she went out with Ichika. She chuckled when she remembered how everyone was so envious of her, and started laughing.

(Ehehe, I'm going to hold hands with him and walk around the school...ehe, eheh...♪)

"Then, let's go back."

"O-Okay."

Bringing the smiling Ran along, Ichika headed towards the Gotanda Eatery.

That night, Ran couldn't sleep at all due to overexcitement.