Chapter 2352: Cheesecake and Banana Split

Chapter 2352: Cheesecake and Banana Split



Futaba quickly released her hold on my collar, spinning on her heel to retreat to the living room with a huff. I watched her go, her shoulders still slightly tense.

"That girl," I muttered under my breath, shaking my head with a small grin. I couldn't help but admire how honest she was in her reactions, even when flustered. She might complain about my teasing, but deep down, she didn't seem to hate the attention. Not entirely, at least.

As I headed up the stairs, I heard Eri laughing at Futaba, teasing for going back defeated after her dramatic charge.n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Thankfully, there was Minoru who stopped them from bickering as the boy innocently asked them to concentrate on the game.

But Akane joined the fray and before long the living room became filled with laughter again. After heading upstairs, I changed out of my uniform and into a comfortable set of clothes. Mhm. Looking at how our house was still this lively despite the sky already darkening, it couldn't help but remind me of how long a day this was. It was packed with interactions and responsibilities that I would never really miss out on. My chest was filled with satisfaction every time I remembered their smiles, their blushes and their endless affection for me. It was extremely satisfying. My life was undoubtedly chaotic, but it was full of moments I cherished. Alright. Let's stop being a bit dramatic. It was always like this anyway.

When I returned downstairs, the aroma of Miwa-nee's cooking filled the house, promising another delicious dinner.

In the living room, Eri was now dominating the game, her cheers of triumph echoing loudly as Minoru struggled to keep up.

"You've got no chance against me, Minoru-kun! Accept your fate!" Eri declared, leaning forward with exaggerated intensity. She was that proud to beat the boy in a game.

The little boy pouted, his fingers flying over the buttons. "I'll beat you next time, Eri-nee!"

Akane chuckled from her spot on the couch, glancing at me as I entered. "Husband, Minoru's having his spirit crushed. Should we intervene?"

"Nah, let him fight his own battles. It builds character," I replied with a laugh but I still walked over to them and patted Eri's shoulder, distracting her for a bit.

Because of that, she crashed her cart into a wall, allowing Minoru to pass her, winning the

race.

Eri let out a loud, exaggerated gasp of disbelief as the screen flashed "1st Place!" over Minoru's character. She pointed an accusing finger at me, her cheeks puffed out.

"Ruki! That was sabotage! How could you betray your best friend like this?"

I smirked and leaned down to pat her head while donning my shameless smile, "How can you call that sabotage? That was an encouraging pat."

Minoru, still holding the controller tightly, jumped up from his seat and pumped his fist in the air. "I did it! I beat Eri-nee!"

His excitement was infectious, his bright grin melting away any lingering frustration. Futaba, sitting cross-legged on the floor, giggled at the exchange before glaring at me again. "That's what you get for being such a tease, Eri. But Onoda-kun is not any better. Hmph." "Pfft. Okay. I'm better now. Someone here is more salty because Ruki cannot stop teasing her." Eri smirked at Futaba, making the girl flare up again.

Her earlier outburst that had seemed to have simmered down once again returned as her gaze flicked to me briefly before darting away.

I simply shook my head and took a seat beside her, or rather, between her and Akane. I let the moment linger without teasing her further which seemed to be effective as she quietly appreciated the reprieve.

"We will come! We will bring customers too! You know... It'll be a good place for a date." Eri enthusiastically chirped."

"What? Are you going to bring Toshi there?" Futaba asked.

"Maybe? Or I can have a date with Ruki there." Eri playfully grinned, making Akane and Fuyu

work up.

Of course, that was intentional to make them react like that. I pinched her cheek and reprimanded her. But the girl just 'Teehee'd her way out. She's adorable so I let that pass.

But Futaba rolled her eyes at how I treated Eri.

Anyway, the lively atmosphere continued that way and soon, Miwa-nee and I finished the

banana splits.

They were a masterpiece. Layers of ice cream, fruit, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup.

"Alright, dessert is served," I announced, placing a plate in front of each person.

Eri's eyes sparkled as she dug in. "Mmm, this is amazing! Ruki, you're the best!"

Minoru also returned after finishing his chocolate shortcake and dug in for another dessert.

Before long, his mouth became full of ice cream to speak.

And obviously, I didn't forget Futaba. Despite her reservations, couldn't hide her

appreciation as she took a cautious bite.

"This is... acceptable," she muttered, though the slight curl of her lips betrayed her true feelings. She really loves her sweets no matter how much she states she hates eating more of

it.

I nodded with a grin. "Glad you approve."

After that, Akane and Fuyu, who were still eating the cheesecake, failed to resist the allure of

it as they dug on their plates as well.

As we ate, the conversation flowed naturally, punctuated by laughter and the occasional playful jab. It was a perfect end to the day, I guess?