Case 229: Click, clack, bang~!

Case 229: Click, clack, bang~!

''Phew...''

Accompanied by vivid flapping noises when the wind blows through our clothes, a warm afternoon light showers our little table. In my hand, an ample cup of milk tea is present. The surface of the content inside ripples gently, ruining the mirror image of myself as I look down.

Sitting opposite of me is my partner. She always has her eyes on me. Her golden pupils gleam even brighter, reflecting the light—just as her white hair does.

Not quite far away, my two daughters are leisurely strolling, hand in hand as they chat.

Gazing into the distance clouds, my heart skips a beat. I've always dreamed of witnessing a scene like this, and even though we've been here for a few months, I can't help but admire it again.

''What's wrong, Sylvia?''

Not turning back, I casually open my mouth.

''It's nothing. Just... I think it's about time.''

''...?''

''This vacation is quite nice thus far, but I have something to do back in the real world, you see.''

''Did you find a way to get out?''

''...More or less, yes.''

''What is it?''

At this, I playfully put my index finger before my mouth. With a mischievous expression, I shush her.

''You'll know a bit later.''

As they say, we should leave the fun stuff last... Or something like that? I'm not sure.

Either way, if I were to decide that this is going to be my last day in this simulated dream, I wanna spend it well. After calling my daughters back, I promptly announce that we are going to get out after tonight.

''Really?!'' Stella exclaims. ''Yes! Mama is the best!''

''Here is peaceful, but not very fun.'' Elysia nods along.

I suppose. Even if I can entertain them using the Internet, there's still the problem of not having other people to interact with. Social interactions are important.

''For the last day... Let's do something different.''

After a round of discussion, we all agree to go fishing for the rest of the afternoon. We don't usually have to actually fish when we want to eat some because... Well, let's just say my telekinesis is quite convenient. Today, however, I want to experience the atmosphere. I've always heard that fishing is tranquil; it heals your mind and such.

Each carrying a fishing rod, the four of us walk to the back of the grape garden, feeling the gentle wind as we go. Elysia and Stella both chose the standard-size rods, which are quite tall for their statues, so now they look kind of goofy.

But it's cute.

Upon arriving at the clear river behind the garden, which we found almost wrapping around our resident, we quickly unpack the bait and get right to the fishing part. Being the absolute bug hater that I am, I only dare to make contact with the worm through three layers of telekinesis gloves.

Yup. Those are a thing.

As my thoughts drift away along the current, I take a look at my family. They still seem unfazed, each flaunting their long legs, dangling as they sit on the huge rock. Unconsciously, four more people seem to appear out of my imagination.

''...''

Unless she wants to go the flat route, in which case... I can't save her.

''Dinner's ready.''

''Oh.''

We huddle over to fill our stomachs, temporarily sealing the weird conversation. For today, Emy has prepared many things: perfectly cooked hot rice, mouth-wateringly flavorful sweet-sour pork ribs, a wide selection of the freshest veggies, iced tea, spicy chicken drums, etc.

It's unfair. Simply looking at this makes me want to marry Emy. But I guess we already have two children, so that's past.

''Let's dig in!''

''Ooh~''

''Be careful. Falling from here hurts like hell.''

On the steep roof of our house, the four of us tread carefully, finding a spot to sit comfortably. After laying a piece of cloth in a suitable location, we promptly sit down, with Elysia in my lap and Stella in Emy's.

Then, I take out the telescope that Tina had given me for my eighteenth birthday and set it up properly.

''That looks so cool!''

''Agreed.''

Giggling, I begin to teach my daughters stargazing techniques earnestly. At first, they seem troubled, but gradually, they become more and more immersed in the act, sometimes fighting to get the chance to look.

Leaving them to enjoy the thing, Emy and I sit close to each other, her hand overlapping mine.

As we both look at the starry sky, a sense of nostalgia hits me. Even though I've only been here for a few months, this place has grown on me a bit. Still, I have something to do and someone to come back to, so this is it.

''Emy.'' I call.

''Mhm?''

''Thank you for being with me.''

''Me too.''

Emy and I smile at each other.

In smooth motions, I pull out my beloved Desert Eagle—

click—!

Insert the magazine—

clack—

Chamber the .50 AE round, and—

''Huh?''

Point the gun at Emy's forehead.

BANG—!!