Volume 1 - CH 13

Episode 13: “Challengers Are Rejected”

(TLN: although she confessed as a punishment but still can she say that? I mean you confessed haha anyways )

“…I’m grateful for this happiness.”

She is beaming with a smile, satisfied with my response. Since earlier… what is it? Her reaction is different from yesterday, and she seems more relaxed.

No, rather than being relaxed, should I say she’s in high spirits?

I wonder if something good happened… Well, if she’s enjoying herself, that’s fine. It makes me happy too.

We continue holding hands as we head to school.

There are more people today than yesterday, but there are fewer students looking at us with curious eyes. Finally, has the rumor spread? I hope nothing weird happens.

“Oh, by the way, Nanami-san… I’m sorry for suddenly asking you out yesterday.”

In response to my words, she places a finger on her cheek and tilts her head.

“Why are you apologizing?”

“Well… you know, Nanami-san, you’re not used to boys, right? I invited you impulsively yesterday, so I thought it might have scared you… I apologize if that was the case.”

“Mm… It’s okay. It’s true that I’m not used to boys, and it’s a little scary, but I was happy about your invitation, Youshin… Yes, I was really happy.”

She said that with a bashful smile. Maybe, is she in high spirits because I asked her out on a date?

Is it okay for me to be conceited about that? If that’s the case, it already makes me feel relieved…

“Huh? But did I… tell you that I’m not used to boys, Youshin?”

I suddenly realize my own mistake.

She didn’t tell me that she’s not used to boys. That information was something I accidentally overheard on the first day.

I can’t say, “Oh, by the way, I eavesdropped on that day.” In fact, I absolutely can’t say it.

“Well, you know, yesterday, you mentioned it was your first time dating a boy. So, I just thought that since someone as cute as Nanami had her first experience with a boy, maybe you weren’t used to them… Looks like my guess was right.”

I say it quickly and in a rush, trying to cover up. It’s embarrassing that I inadvertently mentioned she’s cute again, but in response to those words, she murmurs “cute…” and her cheeks turn red.

(TLN:cute…)

Well, it seems like I was able to cover it up without any problems.

But why is Nanami-san not good with boys? She’s such a cute person… In fact, she could easily manipulate boys as much as she wants… Did she have some unpleasant experiences in the past?

“Thank you, Nanami-san. It looks delicious again today.”

“That’s good. But if it ever runs out, I won’t be able to feed you with ‘aaahn’.”

Her words reminded me of yesterday, and I blushed, but Nanami-san also blushed, recalling the same thing.

She intended to tease me, but it turned into self-sabotage. I quickly corrected myself, saying, “Sorry, it’s nothing.”

While we chatted and enjoyed our lunch, a large shadow suddenly appeared in front of us.

“Excuse me… Nanami-san, can I talk to you for a moment?”

“I’m sorry, but we’re having lunch together. Shibe-senpai.”

A tall, handsome guy stood there.

He’s quite big. He looks even taller when I’m sitting down. He must be around 190 centimeters.

Although I haven’t done anything, he exudes an intimidating aura… it’s a little scary.

If it’s already a bit intimidating for me, a guy, then Nanami-san might find him even scarier.

So I moved closer to Nanami-san and subtly leaned my body against hers.

Ignoring the surprised Nanami-san, I pointed to the seat next to me.

“Senpai, it’s not good to stand and talk. Please sit here next to me. Also, we’ll finish our lunch soon, so could you wait a bit?”

“Hmm… and who are you?”

“Ah, I’m Youshin Misumai. I’m Nanami-san’s boyfriend.”

Upon hearing my words, Senpai’s cheek twitched slightly. He seemed a bit hesitant, but after glancing briefly at Nanami-san, who was not paying him any attention, he obediently took a seat beside me.

“Nanami-san, you’re really good at cooking such a big hamburger. I remember when I tried cooking once on a whim, the inside was raw. In the end, I had to split it in half and cook it, so it turned out dry.”

“It’s not that difficult. It’s big, but not that thick, right? You just need to be careful with the heat and maybe steam it a bit. Anyone can do it.”

“The rolled omelette is also beautiful, and the sweetness is just right. I like it.”

“Really? That’s a relief. You know, my dad likes rolled omelettes with dashi, but everyone else in my family prefers sweet ones. It’s a hassle for me to make two different kinds.”

“You go through the trouble of making two kinds? You really care about your dad, Nanami-san.”

“It’s not a big deal…”

I honestly spoke my thoughts, but Nanami-san pouted and turned away. She’s truly a good girl. I couldn’t help but smile at her cuteness.

As I thought. It was a good idea to stuff my mouth before he said anything. Well, even if he had asked, I wouldn’t have given it to him. This is mine. I wouldn’t give him a single bite.

“Thank you for the meal. It was delicious today.”

“You’re welcome.”

After repeating the same exchange as yesterday, I handed the bento box to Nanami and then turned to the senior.

“So, what’s the matter, senpai?”

“Well, it’s not about you, but it’s related to Nanami-san… Well, it might concern you too.”

“Me too?”

With that, the senior stood up from the bench and moved in front of us again. He crossed his arms and looked a little displeased as he alternated his gaze between me and Nanami. Then, while glancing at me from the corner of his eye, he opened his mouth to Nanami.

“Nanami-san… Do you prefer this guy over me?”

“…Yes, I do. And senpai, please don’t call me Nanami. Call me by my last name. The only person who can call me by my name is my boyfriend, Youshin.” (TLN: les goooo)

The senior, who was easily shut down by Nanami, was glared at by her. Then, trembling and blushing, he pointed at me and shouted in a loud voice that resounded throughout the area, like a true sportsman.

“It’s a challenge, Youshin!! If I lose, I’ll accept your relationship! But if I win, I’ll take Nanami-san!”

“Oh, no thank you.”

When I easily declined, the senior froze in his pose with his finger still pointing.

“Oh, Youshin… You have some bento on your cheek.”

“Huh?”

Nanami said that and took the rice grain that was stuck to my cheek… and put it in her own mouth.

Surprised by her unexpected action, I, like the senior, also froze.

Interlude: Nanami’s Aftermath

Was that… a bit too bold of me? No, but… I have to be assertive like this, right?

But it’s so embarrassing! Youshin, say something instead of staying quiet!

TL notes: Haha that’s was great Nanami.