Chapter 16 (Part 3) – Pudding

Right now, I’m truly surrounded by them.

“Release the hostage and leave immediately!”

“But Mi-chan, this is a chance to hang out with you privately! It’s well-known within our agency that if we get along with you, it’ll lead to success!”

“Chie, do something about Kouji right now!”

Looking around, I saw Kouji-san sitting cross-legged in the corner, sulking.

“Kouji is annoying! He’s always lovey-dovey with Chie and it’s annoying, but today it’s even more annoying!”

I smiled at Chieko-san.

“I was really surprised. To think that Chieko-san’s always talked about loving her doting husband, and it turned out to be Kouji-san!”

“It’s quite well-known, actually. Although I didn’t want to introduce Kouji-chan to Mi-chan.”

“… I admired Sati-san, but I don’t have romantic feelings or anything like that! It’s ridiculous to think I would develop such feelings knowing that all the stories you told about your husband were, things Sati-san did! And, on top of that, you even have such a cute child! Please share some of your happiness with me too!”

“Yeah! I’ll go comfort Kouji-chan a bit!”

“Okay!”

For some reason, Aoi-san handed me a caramel-covered pudding.

Without hesitation, I took the spoon and brought the pudding to my mouth.

Unlike the typical flan-like pudding, this one had the bittersweet taste of caramel, giving it an adult flavor!

“I love this caramel.”

“I’m healed by Mi-chan’s smile.”

Aoi-san seemed quite exhausted.

“When you’re tired, sweets are the way to go! Here you go, Aoi-san. Say ‘ah’.”

Aoi-san eagerly took the pudding I offered and took a big bite.

“This is so soothing~”

“That’s right! Sweet things are really comforting, aren’t they?”

“Idiot, you’re the one soothing Aoi, right, Mi-chan?”

“I’m soothed by Mi-chan too!”

“Yes, yes! Say ‘ah’.”

“… … It’s bitter.”

“Hey, why are you giving some to Chi too? Give back my moe and kyuu!”

Aoi-san furrowed his brow in dissatisfaction.

I chuckled and replied, , “Well, you know, Aoi-san. I shared some of Aoi-san’s pudding because it made me feel happy, and I thought it would be better if we all became happy together!”

“… … Damn it! You’re adorable.”

“I understand~ Aoi-chan, my mouth is bitter~ Is there any cheesecake left?”

“I only made enough to give Mi-chan as a souvenir!”

“But that means there’s some left! Just a little bit is fine, come on!”

“Aoi-san!”

“I made it because I wanted Mi-chan to eat it!”

“I want to eat some too!”

Aoi-san probably didn’t realize that I secretly felt my heart skip a beat.

“Aoi-san, let’s bring out the cheesecake! Come on, I’ll help!”

I gave Aoi-san a nudge and headed towards the kitchen.

“Mi-chan.”

“Aoi-san, thank you! Thanks for making various things for me. I love you.”

“… … Well, about that…”

“When you said you’re making it because you want me to eat it, I got all giddy!”

“I’m the one who’s feeling all giddy right now… Can those guys leave already?”

Aoi-san seemed to be in a better mood.

He sliced the cheesecake and made sure there was enough for each person. I was happy that he took care to make it the right portion for everyone.

When we returned from the kitchen, Kouji-san’s mood had also improved, and we all started eating the cheesecake together.

“Seems like there’s not enough.”

“S-Sorry! I ended up eating quite a bit…”

“For Mi-chan, anything is okay!”

Yeah, I think Chieko-san has taken a liking to me.

… … And now, I’m feeling awkward.

Why? Well, it’s because… Chieko-san is currently sitting on Kouji-san’s lap.

Both Aoi-san and Chiharu-kun seem used to it and don’t seem bothered. But I’m bothered!

Sorry. It’s bothering me.

Moreover, Chieko-san is saying ‘ah’ for Kouji-san while still on his lap.

This is so awkward!

“Okaasan, Mi-chan is really flustered.”

“Mi-chan, just think of us as air!”

“… … Chieko-san… There is no air that insists on such a presence~”

Aoi-san handed me Darjeeling tea while speaking.

“They’re always like this… It’s easier to think of yourself as air.”

“Y-yeah.”

I’m air, I’m air… Oh, this cheesecake is really good after all!

“Mi-chan, you’re quite adaptable.”

“Well, my job involves interacting with various things and people.”

“Is it because of your job or your personality?”

“Could be both? … … The cheesecake and pudding are both delicious. Thank you, Aoi-san.”

“Don’t say that now…”

“Huh? Why?”

“I can’t pin you down.”

“Then, this timing is perfect!”

“Is it okay if I cry?”

After that, we all played together until evening, had dinner thanks to Aoi-san treating us, and then headed home.

Aoi-san probably doesn’t know that his slightly lowered head makes my heart skip a beat.

Chapter 16 (Part 2) – Pudding

While we were having that conversation, Aoi-san returned to the living room with a handsome man.

“Chi, you’re getting lovey-dovey with Miko again!”

“I love Miko-chan!”

“Back off!”

“Nice to meet you, I’m Kouji, Chiharu’s father. I apologize for any inconvenience my son may have caused.”

“A well-mannered person has arrived~!”

Huh? No, I think I’ve seen them somewhere before?

Where was it again?

“Oh! Are you sati-san?”

“!? … Do you know me?”

Sati, also known as “サチ” in katakana, is a legendary makeup artist and a celebrity in the advertising agency where I work!

It’s rumored that if you get makeup done by Sati-san, anything you wear – clothes, shoes, accessories – will sell like hotcakes.

“Um, can I shake your hand, please?”

“Mikoto! You don’t know about my brand, but you know about Kouji’s?”

“No one at my company is unaware of Sati-san! I’ve worked with Sati-san’s disciple, Chieko, but I’ve never received an offer from Sati-san yet!”

“… … You seem to be on good terms with Chieko.”

“Huh?”

As I looked bewildered, Chi-kun spoke up.

“It’s because my mom doesn’t like introducing someone she likes to my dad! She’s afraid that if she falls for my dad, she’ll have to start disliking them! So, if someone hasn’t worked with my dad, it means my mom likes them.”

I remained silent for a moment and then exclaimed,

“Chieko-san or Chi-chan’s mom! Or rather, Sati-san’s wife! … … Now that you mention it, Chi-chan’s hair texture might be similar to Chieko-san’s… I’ve had Chieko-san braid my hair before, and her hair is also fluffy.”

Everyone present fell silent.

What?

“Miko-chan touched Chie’s hair”

“Huh? What’s wrong? Everytime I meet Chieko-san, she always says, ‘Touch my hair~’ and hugs me.”

Everyone fell even quieter.

Wait, what’s the big deal?

Just then, the intercom rang again.

“It’s probably Chie.”

Aoi-san went to the front door to welcome Chieko-san.

When Aoi-san returned, I made eye contact with Chieko-san.

“Mi-chan~ Why are you here? Fate? It’s fate~ Give me a hug and stroke my hair~”

As always, Chieko-san hugged me tightly.

This person is truly adorable.

I couldn’t help but hug her back tightly and stroke her head.

“Chie! Don’t get all lovey-dovey with Miko, you jerk! You usually hate it when someone touches your head, but you’re letting Miko pet you!”

“I’m not being all lovey-dovey! And don’t come near Mi-chan, especially if you’re someone who’s into flirty affairs like Aoi-san!”

“Don’t put bad ideas into Miko’s head! What if she ends up disliking me!”

Chieko-san turned her back towards me as if shielding me from Aoi-san.

“Mi-chan is my girlfriend.”

“Huh? I’ll kill you.”

“I’m so done with this. Kouji, take me back quickly…”

Aoi-san’s gaze fell on Kouji-san, who was on her knees and looking down.

“Mom, Dad’s in despair. Don’t you think you should console him?”

“Protecting Mi-chan is more important.”

At Chieko-san’s words, Kouji-san slumped down.

A big man reduced to a tiny ball…

“Chieko-san, what Aoi-san is saying is true. We started dating.”

Chieko-san looked utterly hopeless.

“No, Mi-chan, I don’t want that! I’m sure there’s a better guy out there for you!”

“Yeah, that might be true, but I realized I liked Aoi-san. Even though I was the one who confessed first, I couldn’t just back down. Chieko-san, I was really happy that you were thinking about me! Thank you!”

Chieko-san’s eyes welled up slightly, and she nodded. Then, she turned to Aoi-san and said coldly,

“If you make Mi-chan cry, I’ll drown you in the bathtub.”

“That’s quietly terrifying in a real way!”

“Chieko-san, it’s okay! I think I’m more likely to make someone cry!”

“If it’s Aoi-san, feel free to cry as much as you want! I’ll allow it!”

“I really don’t want that! You two, seriously, go home!”

Aoi-san’s desperate plea was in vain, and the three of them didn’t seem to have any intention of leaving.

Chapter 14 – Sleepover

I think Aoi is very fond of children.

Ever since she realized that Chiharu’s father wasn’t coming to pick him up, she’s been taking care of him diligently, like Chiharu’s own father.

“Come on, go brush your teeth.”

“Okay, Papa~”

“I’m not your daddy.”

“But you’re more like a dad than my real father.”

“Is that something to be happy about?”

“Then, am I like a mom?”

“Miko-chan is… a big eater.”

“…Yeah, that’s right.”

Chiharu laughed cutely.

It’s heartwarming.

“Let’s brush our teeth together!”

“Yeah!”

When I tried to hold Chiharu’s hand and go to the bathroom, Aoi slapped my hand away.

“Don’t just keep flirting around, you two!”

“Ao-chan is so demanding.”

“Saying childish things doesn’t make you cute.”

“Can I cry once? I was supposed to have a sweet time with you today! But it’s all ‘Chii’ this and ‘Chii’ that…”

When I looked at him with a troubled expression, Chiharu smiled and said:

“I’ll go brush my teeth, so feel free to flirt! Or maybe I’ll go to bed early, and you can take a bath together?”

Wait, you brat! Don’t say weird things!

“Mikoto!”

“Don’t expect too much, Aoi! Chii-chan, be quiet.”

“Yes.”

Both of them looked a bit disappointed, but it doesn’t matter.

After Chiharu went to brush their teeth, I peeked at Aoi’s face.

“What’s wrong?”

He was sulking completely.

I want to say, “You can’t just be all lovey-dovey when you don’t even know how long teeth brushing will take!” But I held back.

“When should we have our next date?”

“Tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow… Can I come to pick up my change of clothes?”

“…Does Miko like… me?”

“If I didn’t like you, would I be here?”

“…Yeah.”

“I do like you.”

“Aaaah, I really like you! Why is Chii here today of all days!”

You were supposed to look after him…

Looking closely, Chiharu had just come back.

“Why are you yelling, Aoi-chan? It’s scary.”

“Can I hug you once?”

“No, it’s gross.”

“Not you! Obviously, I meant Miko!”

“Why didn’t you do it while I was gone?”

“Because you came back so soon!”

“Teeth brushing doesn’t take that long, you know?”

Chiharu, you’re quite sensible.

“Since Miko-chan is feeling sorry for Aoi-chan, why don’t you give him a kiss or something!”

“That’s right, that’s right!”

What was a kiss again?

If I imitated a mouse… they might find it weird…

“If you don’t want to get hit, shut up.”

For now, I tried threatening them.

Both of them became quiet.

I reluctantly gave each of them a kiss on the cheek.

“I like Miko-chan!”

“Why are you even doing that to Chii?”

“Well, the young and fresh skin… it’s tough.”

“Your skin is also fresh, Miko-chan!”

“Calling someone with teenage skin ‘fresh’… that’s a bit too much.”

Chiharu gave a wry smile and then, as if he had thought of something, he covered my cheek with both hands and said,

“Miko-chan’s skin is soft and looks delicious!”

“…Thank you! I can’t fully agree, but I’m touched by Chii-chan’s kindness!”

“That’s why! Why are you so flirty with Chii!”

Sorry, Aoi, we kind of got lost in our own world!

While the three of us were watching TV, Chiharu yawned.

“Feeling sleepy?”

“Yeah.”

“Well then, shall we go to bed?”

“Yeah.”

“Aoi-san, I’m taking Chii-chan to the guest room.”

“Don’t sleep together.”

“Yeahhh~ i know it”

I led Chiharu to the guest room.

“Miko-chan, make sure to have some romantic time with Aoi-chan.”

“I will not do it”

“No, you must. Ao-chan deserves it.”

“It’s okay, once Chii-chan leaves, we’ll have plenty of romantic time.”

“…I don’t really mind,” Chiharu replied.

I stayed silent for a while and then said,

“Actually, I haven’t really kissed Aoi-san properly yet.”

“Huh?”

“So, I think the first time should be when we’re alone together.”

“…What’s Aoi-chan up to?”

“Well… he’s treating me really well.”

“…That’s what you like about him.”

“It’s embarrassing to say that I felt happy when you got ridiculously jealous, right?”

I couldn’t help but let out a bitter smile.

Chiharu had an angelic smile on his face as he said,

“Aoi-chan’s room is soundproofed so he can focus on work. You can flirt without worries. Goodnight.”

With that, Chiharu went into the guest room.

Soundproofed?

Even so, it’s still awkward!

As Aoi headed toward the living room where I was waiting, needless to say, I became quite restless.

Chapter 13 (Part 1) – Tempura

“Alright, next is shrimp!”

“Hey, you’ve only been eating shrimp this whole time! Have some mushrooms too.”

“I don’t want to! I don’t like mushrooms!”

At the tempura restaurant, while I was feeling uneasy about its upscale nature, Aoi-san and Chi-kun ordered with a familiar attitude, ignoring me.

Honestly, if you’re not going to eat them, give the mushrooms to me.

“Chi, how about sweet potatoes or pumpkins?”

“I like them! Miko-chan likes them too!”

Those words said so casually made my heart flutter!

“I like Chi-kun too.”

“Call me Chi or Chi-chan! Please!”

Uh-oh, I’m going to die from this cuteness!

I hope my nose isn’t bleeding!

So adorable~!

“What about me, Iwabuchi?”

“What about it?”

“… …”

Aoi-san hung her head, and Chi-kun patted her on the back.

“Aoi-san!”

“What?”

“Um, I have a favor to ask… um…”

“?”

“Well, you see, a kiss.”

“!”

“Order a tempura kiss.”

“A fish, seriously?!”

“Don’t make a scene in a place like this!”

As I was getting flustered, the server who had been serving me tempura started laughing. It’s Aoi-san’s fault.

“You don’t have to be scared, just ask directly, it’s okay.”

“I-I’m sorry… Well then, please give me tempura kiss and tempura shishito pepper.”

“Understood.”

Truly a high-class restaurant!

“Ao-chan… Miko-chan is cheating.”

“She makes that cute face for anyone who gives her delicious food!”

“Huh?”

“It’s unconscious!”

“The bad part of you is your lack of self-awareness!”

Ignoring that, I sprinkle a bit of coarse salt on the tempura kiss and tempura shishito pepper that have been served to me and take a bite.

“So delicious~! Thanks for bringing me here, Aoi-san!”

For now, I express my gratitude.

The two of them fall silent for a while.

It’s Chiha-kun who speaks first.

“Anyone would want to give her food.”

“I understand.”

Aoi-san smiles and gives me a playful look.

At that moment, I realize that the vibrating sound of my phone is coming from my bag.

I wanted to ignore it, but if it’s from a client, it could be important.

Reluctantly, I take out my phone.

The screen displays “Boss.”

I sighed and told Aoi-san before answering the call.

“Iwabuchi-kun! Help me! That, um, that thing, where is it?”

“First, calm down. What are you talking about?”

“The documents, um, um…”

“… … The boss is going on a business trip tomorrow, right? I’ll give you the locations in order: A, the third drawer of Boss A’s desk; B, the red file in Ishiyama’s desk; C, the blue file in Hayama’s desk; X, the file labeled ‘For Boss’ in my computer’s folder. By the way, I’ve put everything together and given it to Ishiyama-senpai.”

“Ishiyama’s not here! I’m going to kill him! Seriously, I’m going to punch him until he spits blood!”

“… … Please calm down. You have my permission to punch him. And while you’re at it, punch Hayama too.”

“Oh, and I heard you were confessed to in front of everyone? Are you dating?”

“If you’re saying that knowing how much trouble I’ve had with the Clumsy Brothers, I’ll punch the boss. Of course, I’ll punch him until he pukes blood.”

“I-I’m sorry… Ah, I’ve got all the files now.”

“A box of beef tongue would be a nice souvenir.”

“I’m not going to Sendai, you know?”

“I know. Bring back some beef tongue.”

“… … I’ll order it online.”

“Very well. Then, I’ll expect that. Have a good time.”

“… … I’m going… There’s actually one more thing I want to ask…”

“The list of gifts for your daughter’s birthday is in the top drawer of the boss’s desk. Please choose something on your own.”

“I asked Iwabuchi-kun because I got scolded after choosing on my own.”

“Don’t act tough!”

“Yes…”

“I’ll pray for your consideration.”

I say that and hang up the phone.