Chapter 23 – I want to see you

After finishing work, I called Aoi.

“Hello?”

“Yeah, what’s up? Oh, no, it’s okay to call even if there’s nothing.”

“Yeah. Um, you know… this necklace… was it really a good thing for me to receive it?”

Aoi fell silent at my words

“Um, can you hear me?”

“Yeah, I can hear you… Why? Was the design just too childish?”

“No, it’s not that… Isn’t this necklace important to you, Aoi?”

“…There’s nothing more important than you.”

Aoi’s sudden sweet words made my face flush instantly.

“Ahhhh, I think it’s impossible~ I can’t meet anyone right now.”

“What’s wrong?”

“Because Aoi said something like that… my face is all flushed.”

“…Send a picture.”

“No way~ Absolutely not.”

“Oh, come on! I bet you look super cute~”

“I-I didn’t!”

“Liar!”

I could hear Aoi’s deep sigh.

“You want to see me, right?”

“…Yeah.”

I found myself thinking the same thing.

“Shall we meet?”

“I can’t, sorry.”

“Too bad.”

“Yeah, it’s a shame.”

“…What do you want to eat this weekend?”

“Food cooked by you, Aoi.”

“You’re saying you want to see me, aren’t you?”

Oh, yes, I want to see you. Just hearing your voice makes me feel better, but it’s also makes me lonely because I want to see you. It’s like my chest is full, and I feel like my stomach is full.

“I want to see you,” I blurted out without thinking.

“Where are you? I’ll come pick you up.”

“I have work again tomorrow.”

“Just come from my place. Bring your change of clothes and makeup and anything else you need.”

“…I guess I’m being selfish.”

“You idiot, that’s not being selfish, it’s just cute.”

“Thank you for saying that, it makes me happy.”

“Idiot! I’m not satisfied! I want to see you!”

“I’ll go home right away and get ready.”

“I’ll come to pick you up.”

“Isn’t it troublesome?”

“I want to see you as soon as possible.”

My heart flutters.

I hurry to go home and prepare for the sleepover. I don’t have time to transfer cosmetics and skincare products into small bottles. I might as well wear the new pajamas I bought. As for underwear, the see-through ones are no longer an option. I need to wear something not too worn out…

“Sh-should I… or shouldn’t I?”

If you don’t understand, should I gather some courage? It’s not good to be seen as expecting too much, so just a little… let’s make it a little special.

Just then, my phone rang. I was so startled that I almost jumped.

When I looked at my phone, it was from Daiki. Annoying.

But what if it’s work?

Ugh…

I reluctantly answered the phone.

“What is it?”

“If you’re free now, how about grabbing a meal?”

“No thanks.”

I hung up the phone.

Changing my mood, I grabbed my things and left the room.

Why did it have to turn out like this?

When I left the apartment, for some reason, Aoi and Daiki were glaring at each other.

Can I just go back to my own room for a moment? There’s no way to avoid this troublesome situation, right?

“What are you guys doing?”

They both looked at me when I unintentionally spoke up.

Daiki was the first to speak.

“Mikoto, I have something to talk about. Can you spare some time for me?”

I don’t have anything to talk about, except for work.

Before I could say anything, Aoi spoke up.

“Mikoto’s time is reserved for me from now on. You can see her at work, can’t you?”

“It’s a matter that can’t be discussed at work.”

“I’d appreciate it if you didn’t turn our time into something that not important.”

Aoi’s polite language is intimidating. The two of them glaring at each other.

“Since this time is precious, I’ll speak my mind. Mikoto.”

Daiki looked at me and said, ” Mikoto, I heard you haven’t had a boyfriend since you broke up with me, and honestly, it made me happy! Mikoto, let’s get married!”

Oh, can someone please call the police?

The reason I haven’t had a boyfriend since breaking up with Daiki is that the guys who approached me were into women who could cook, and I was still hung up on Daiki.

“Even when I went to France, I couldn’t forget about you, Mikoto! I’m serious. I want you to marry me!”

Looking at him, Aoi appeared surprised and frozen.

“Uh… it’s impossible.”

“Why?”

“Because I don’t love you.”

“But…”

“It’s not ‘but.’ My feelings for you were gone when you asked me to come to France with you.”

“Why?”

“…I can only say that I lost interest all at once. Besides, the person I love now is… Aoi.”

I grabbed the hem of Aoi’s T-shirt.

“I don’t know when, but I’m going to marry Aoi, so it’s impossible with Daiki. I want to marry… Aoi.”

Oh, this is embarrassing.

What kind of embarrassing play is this?

Declaring that I want to get married in front of the person I love.

It’s too much.

I wonder what Aoi’s expression is like? I want to see, but I can’t, it’s too embarrassing. I’m probably blushing all the way up to my ears right now.

“Since Mikoto says that, I’ll take responsibility and make her happy.”

Aoi’s voice sounded somehow gentle and embarrassing.

Seeing me all flustered, who was holding the hem of his T-shirt, Aoi Aoi took my hand and led me to the car, opening the door for me like a gentleman squeezed my hand tightly, making my heart skip a beat once again.

He said as he took the driver’s seat, “Wait for me, I’ll propose properly.”

“I’ll wait patiently.”

“I’ll do it soon.”

“No need to rush.”

“It’s not rushing. Rather… if we get married, you will be able to eat the meals I make with love every day, right? When I think about that, I want to get married right away. But since it’s a once-in-a-lifetime thing, so I want to do things like proposing properly.”

As the car started moving, I thought to myself.

Wasn’t that a proposal just now?

I continued to gaze at the nighttime scenery outside the car, trying not to let my grin show.

Chapter 22 (Part 2) – Gunjo (From Chihiro’s Perspective)

“Chi-chan, are you okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine! Miko-chan looked really cool back there.”

“Can I say thank you?”

“You can totally say thank you.”

I wrapped my arms around Miko-chan’s body and hugged her tightly.

When I hold Mikochan tightly, her breasts touch my face and it feels good.

“I love Mikochan~”                

I usually want to grow up quickly, but recently, I’ve been thinking it’s okay to stay like this if Mikochan hugs me tightly.

“Collaboration between an angel and a goddess! Can I take a picture?”

“Sure~! Please take one if you can. I’ll cherish it!”

Miko-chan was smiling when suddenly a hand was placed firmly under my arm, and I was pulled away from her.

“Ao-chan?”

I thought, but it wasn’t him.

It was a man I had never seen before, lifting me up.

“Daiki? What’s going on?”

“Seriously, you has no sense of caution.”

“Huh?”

“Boys in his age are already men, you know.”

“So what? I don’t get the point.”

“This is why…”

Miko-chan seemed a little angry.

The man slowly let go of me.

“Iwabuchi-senpai.”

“Oh, Hayama, in the right place. Look for the new Model here. Fast.”

“I’ve already arranged for that.”

“…I see. You’re as reliable as ever, Daiki.”

“Have you fallen for me again?”

“No. I haven’t.”

It seems like this man has feelings for Mikochan.

 I waved goodbye to Mikochan, who couldn’t stay with me due to work, and looked at my mother.

“Does that Daiki guy like Miko-chan?”

“That man is Miko-sama’s ex.”

“Huh? Sounds like he still has feelings for her.”

“I can’t stand that guy. I never expected him to come back.”

“Come back? From where?”

“He went abroad for work, broke up with Miko-sama, and went to either the UK or France.”

Wow. Mikochan already has Ao-chan, right? Ao-chan and Mikochan are a great match, so I hope he doesn’t interfere.

A replacement model arrived, and my mother started doing makeup.

“Oh, is this gunjo?”

“Yes! I feel like things go well when I wear this ring.”

The cute model had a ring on her right middle finger with a design that looked like bamboo wrapped around it.

“That’s interesting; it might be fate. You’re going to be a hit!”

“Huh? Why is that?”

“Well, Miko-sama is person in charge of this project development, and it’s a known fact that anyone who participates in Miko-sama’s projects tends to be liked by the staff and becomes successful! Oh, here’s Miko-sama!”

Ahead of my mother waving her hand, Miko-chan was there. Miko-chan came over here with a smile on her face.

“The new model, right?”

“Nice to meet you,” the model said, rising from her chair and bowing.

“Oh, you don’t have to stand up. It’s my pleasure. I’m grateful that you’re here.”

“Miko-sama, she said she gets inspired by the Gunjo ring.”

“Really?”

Miko-chan’s face turned slightly red, and she smiled a bit, looking a bit flustered.

Wow, she looks incredibly cute. Miko-chan really loves Ao-chan, doesn’t she?

“…Such a beautiful person…”

The model murmured in amazement.

I agree.

“Huh? Um, I’m sorry. I got lost in my own world!”

Miko-chan blushed and chuckled, making my heart race.

“I have a Gunjo necklace too.”

“…I’ve never seen that design before?”

“Well, you see, it’s the first necklace Ao-san ever made in his life.” My mother said

“Huh?”

 “Satchan and I were classmates with Ao-san in high school, and it was because of that necklace that Ao-san’s brand became ‘gunjo.’ It’s from the deep blue color of the kyanite stone – ‘gunjo.'”

“Is that so?”

“You didn’t know?”

“I-I didn’t know! W-What should I do? Is it okay to receive something so important?”

Seeing Miko-chan getting flustered, I couldn’t help but smile.

“Miko-chan, you’re going to marry Ao-chan, right? So, it’s okay to keep wearing it. Ao-chan is trying to fill the time you can’t be together with that necklace, so you should wear it all the time.”

Miko-chan’s face rapidly turned redder.

Wow, she looks even cuter like this.

My heart skips a beat as I see Miko-chan blushing all the way to her ears.

Of course, I’m not the only one experiencing this feeling, as Senkawa-san is discreetly taking photos with a telephoto camera, trying not to be noticed.

I’ll ask him to make copies later!

If I give them to Ao-chan, he’ll probably buy me anything I want.

I’ll ask for a new video game.

“Are you dating someone from gunjo?”

“Uh, yes.”

Mikochan blushed even more.

“You’re so cute! I admire people who become cute when talking about the person they like! It’s like a dream!”

“Huh! No, it’s not like that…”

Ah, Mikochan is so cute when she gets flustered.

After that, watching Miko-chan blush and get all flustered while being praised by the model’s sparkling eyes, I couldn’t help but imagine that if Ao-chan were here, he might have melted from the cuteness, and I couldn’t stop grinning.

Chapter 22 (Part 1) – Gunjo (From Chihiro’s Perspective)

On this day, I had asked my mom to bring me to the workplace. The reason was that I had learned that this job involved Miko-chan’s company.

As I followed my mom, an unpleasant atmosphere filled the studio.

“Is the makeup not done yet? I’m tired~”

The haughty girl seemed to be around high school age. The adults around her were trying to appease her.

I thought I had ended up in an unpleasant place.

“Mrs. Chieko… I’m sorry, but I don’t think I can photograph that girl well!”

Appearing there was a young and handsome man. He held a camera in his hand, so he might be a photographer.

“Who’s this? This angel.”

“My son.”

“…You had such a big child? I mean, a son!”

“I’m Haru. Nice to meet you.”

“I’m Senkawa. But seriously, he’s cute!”

I smiled when called cute because I’m used to it.

“So cute!”

“Miko-sama is head over heels for him.”

“Angel-kun, I envy you! I wish I could be head over heels for Miko-sama too… impossible, I can’t even imagine.”

It seems that Miko-chan might be a very influential person here.

“Isn’t Miko-chan here?”

“Don’t call Miko-sama with ‘-chan’! Angel, you’re a scary one!”

It seems that in his mind, I had become known as Angel-kun.

“Well, since Miko-sama is like a goddess, it’s kind of understandable to use the ‘-chan’ honorific with Angel-kun! Miko-sama is apparently coming later.”

“I hope she comes soon.”

“I agree! If Miko-sama were here, the atmosphere wouldn’t be like this…”

I wonder what’s going on? I was left bewildered, and suddenly, someone grabbed my shoulder, startling me. When I turned around, the haughty girl from earlier was standing there with an extremely angry expression.

“Who are you?”

“This child is my son, and he came here for a social school field trip.”

As my mother tried to intervene, the haughty girl furrowed her brow.

“Don’t bring such an eyesore with you!”

Did you have to say that much?

I didn’t want my mother to be scolded because of me.

“In that case, I’ll go home.”

“Huh? Haru, are you sure?”

“Yeah.”

Just as I was about to leave…

“If you’re going home, why don’t you let this lady go home too?”

It was Miko-chan who appeared there. Near Miko-chan, there were a few men who looked like important people.

“Dad, who is this woman?”

“I’m Iwabuchi, and I’m in charge of planning for this commercial. Your company’s president wanted to use you in the commercial because his daughter is an underground idol, so we chose to cast you.”

Miko-chan looked at the president with a beautiful smile.

“Mr. President, if what I’m about to say doesn’t sit well with you, you’re welcome to cut ties with our company.”

…

The president’s face tightened.

“We take pride in our work.”

“So do I.”

“You’re quite foolish, you know. Right now, you’re unexpectedly missing with the biggest business opportunity.”

“Huh?”

“An underground idol with no fame is trying to use industry connections. The downside is that you’ll remain an underground idol for life. Industry connections are everything. Being harsh on one person here is like rejecting ten jobs. Well, ten is the minimum, but you get the idea.”

“W-what are you talking about?”

“Should I make it even clearer? Everyone working here will probably dislike the idea of you coming here after this. So, if you choose to use her, it means they won’t take on that job. In such a small industry, the moment one person talks about that underground idol, the news will spread like wildfire. And what follows that is no job offers, right?”

Miko-chan approached the president with a smile on her face as she said this.

“I take pride in my work. Mr. President, please make your decision here and now. Will you cut ties with our company to appease your daughter, or will you keep our contract and silence your daughter?”

The president turned pale and remained silent. The photographer standing nearby spoke up.

“If you choose to terminate the contract, I won’t work with your company anymore.”

Similar voices echoed from the people around.

The president lowered his head to Miko-chan and said, “I apologize for my daughter’s actions. Can we quickly arrange for another model?”

“Of course. I’m grateful for the president’s courageous decision,” replied Miko-chan with a gentle smile.

The president, seemingly reassured by Miko-chan’s warm smile, then grabbed his daughter by the neck and left.

“Miko-sama, you were amazing! I’ll follow you for life!”

“Senkawa-kun, you’re an incredible photographer with many awards. You could find work with a bigger company, not just a small one like ours.”

“This job is the only way I get to meet Miko-sama, so please call me for the next one too!”

“Thank you.”

Senkawa blushed and had a big smile on his face.

Then, Miko-chan came over to me and gave me a tight hug.

Chapter 21 – I love it.

The first time with Aoi-san ended without any issues, and I felt relieved.

If someone were to ask if it was truly without issues, that wouldn’t be the case.

I couldn’t move at all the next day.

Aoi-san kept smiling happily the whole time, and even though I wanted to complain, I couldn’t.

From breakfast to dinner, Aoi-san took care of everything diligently, and on the way back, Aoi-san even gave me a ride in a luxury car.

I didn’t even know he had a car like that.

“I’m sorry for pushing you too hard. I’ll try to take it easy next time.”

“…Really?”

My voice hardly came out. The slight hoarseness was also all Aoi-san’s fault.

“Oh, it’s true.”

“I can’t trust you, though.”

“Why not?”

“I told you many times to stop, but you didn’t listen.”

“…I’m sorry.”

Aoi-san looked pouty, and I couldn’t help but smile.

“I believe you, so next time, go easy on me, okay?”

“!!…  I love you, Iwabuchi!”

Aoi-san happily smiled and kissed me. His kisses seemed never-ending, and I felt my strength leave me.

“Can I take you home?”

“No! I have to work tomorrow, so it’s not possible. Drive safely.”

“…I understand. Goodbye.”

I felt lonely as I watched Aoi-san get into her car.

If it were my previous partners, I probably would have already started walking towards the elevator by now.

“Well… how about next weekend? I’m available anytime.”

“Next weekend is good. I want to spend time together without any worries.”

“Let’s do that!”

It seems like I said something unnecessary.

“Alright, next weekend it is. I’ll message you… or is calling okay? Well, I’ll get in touch.”

“Yeah, sounds good! See you.”

After that, I waved goodbye until Aoi-san’s car was no longer visible.

“…Yeah, it was that amazing.”

During lunch break at work, I talked to Misato about the weekend.

That was her reaction.

I nodded slowly.

“I wonder if I should buy sexy lingerie too…”

“W-Wait, Misato, didn’t you say you have sexy lingerie?”

“I don’t have any! Well, I guess you need a good figure like you to wear them, right?”

I was deceived.

I trusted Misato and bought and wore it.

Even though my body still ached.

Suddenly, I remembered the sexy Aoi-san and blushed.

“Remembering and blushing, how naughty.”

“I’m going to kill you, Misato.”

“I’m sorry.”

At that moment, Daiki and Hayama sat down in the seats in front of us.

“What’s wrong, Senpai Iwabuchi? Your face is all red.”

“I was just remembering some lovey-dovey moments with my boyfriend and got embarrassed, that’s all, Hayama-kun.”

When Hayama went silent, Daiki said with a smirk, “Did you show him your sexy lingerie?”

“Daiki-kun, I can understand what you want to say. But it looks like our shy Iwabuchi here made an effort to tempt him in this relationship.”

“…I showed him,” I said defiantly. “T-That’s right! I wore it. I, I didn’t expect it to be like that… Uuuuu~ Misato ~ It was so embarrassing.”

“Oh, there there, good job, Wild-san. He turned you into a sexy lady.”

“…Uuuuu~ I keep remembering it~”

My face kept getting hotter.

Misato smiled contentedly and said, “You’re adorable.”

“Uuuuu~” I buried my head in my hands.

“If you keep dwelling on it like that, it’ll be tough, you know? How about getting another round today?”

“No way!”

“Was he bad at it?”

“No, he was amazing! That’s why, um, it’s not just a one-time thing… I mean, I couldn’t move the next day…”

Jitsumi had a sly grin on her face.

“Iwabuchi, maybe it would be better to talk about this when we’re not around?” Daiki suggested, and when I glanced at the two of them, for some reason, Hayama’s eyes were watery.

What? This is getting scary.

“I-I’m sorry, Hayama. Um, if you’re not comfortable with such a vulgar conversation, go sit somewhere else! What I want to talk to Jitsumi about is quite explicit, so you might hear it by accident.”

“N-No, it’s okay. Please continue.”

He doesn’t look okay at all.

“They say you were amazing, but how long were you with your previous boyfriend?”

Misato gave Daiki a sly smile.

Was she trying to distance Daiki from this seat?

“About five people, I think.”

“How many of them did you sleep with?”

“…Two.”

“What? You’ve can only compare with two of them?”

“Well, I don’t really compare. I don’t remember much.”

“When was the last time you had sex?”

“The day before yesterday”

“I meant before you started dating Wild-san.”

“…About three and a half years ago?”

For some reason, Daiki looked at me with a surprised expression.

“Wait, you haven’t dated anyone since you broke up with me?”

“I was just busy with work.”

“I see.”

I mean, there was only that guy who kept telling me to cook.

I shoved a piece of fried chicken from the chicken cutlet set into my mouth.

“Hey, is it true that the hymen goes back if you don’t have sex for three years?”

I froze and then spoke after finishing the fried chicken in my mouth.

“I-I don’t know!”

“It’s about yourself, isn’t it?”

“I-I don’t know…”

“So, you’re saying that it all got taken care of while you were unconscious.”

“How do you even know that?”

I buried my head in my hands again.

“My darling at home does it too! He even carries me like a princess to the bathroom.”

“Is he really that strong with that cute face?”

“Are you saying I’m chubby?”

“No, not at all! …Men are surprisingly strong, you know.”

“…He carried you like a princess?”

“Clairvoyance.”

“You always dreamed of being carried like a princess, didn’t you? He is really hitting your moe points.”

“…That’s right, what should I do? It’s making me feel like a high school girl with a crush.”

“Is it your first love?”

“N-No, it’s not!”

“You seem suspicious.”

I’ve already had my first love.

After all, I’ve dated five people!

…But feeling this fluttery, it’s different from my first love.

“Iwabuchi.”

“Yes?”

“You’re going to marry Wild-san, right?”

“Huh?”

I could feel my face getting hot again.

“Um… yeah. I mean, if Aoi-san wants to, of course.”

I immediately regretted what I said.

Misato had the biggest grin on her face.

“Uuuuu~ I hate Misato ~”

“What about Wild-san?”

“Well… I, um, like him…”

I can’t take it anymore; it’s too embarrassing!

I don’t even feel like eating anymore.

That day, I left food on my plate for the first time.

ityoii’s note: Hello everyone~ I apologize because for the past two weeks I have been really busy so I didn’t have time to update the chapter. There is a possibility that I will take a short hiatus to finish some things. But don’t worry, I will update the chapters that I have already translated according to the schedule. I will let you know in the last chapter how long the hiatus will be. Thanks all~

Chapter 17 – Pancake with no taste

I’m on a shopping date with Masato.

Masato’s sense of style is the best and strongest.

I become a mannequin.

Because if I leave it to Masato, she will choose the perfect clothes to my taste, consult with my closet without my permission, and discern what’s worth buying and what’s not.

Shopping with Masato is fun!

Because there are no mistakes.

“Masato, I’m hungry.”

“…Didn’t we have lunch earlier?”

“My stomach and legs are asking for a break.”

“…I understand. Let’s take a break at that café.”

“Yay!”

I pushed Masato’s back and entered the café.

I ordered café au lait and pancakes at the café.

Masato is drinking black coffee.

So cool.

“So? How was it with Wild-san?”

“How was what?”

“You did it, right?”

“… …”

“Wild-san had a good body, you know.”

“I’m sorry, not yet.”

“Why?”

“W-Well, actually…”

When I talked about the day before yesterday and yesterday, Masato hit me.

“Isn’t it unfair to Wild-san… I got it. After this, let’s go buy some compensation underwear for Wild-san.”

“Is that necessary?”

“Of course it is! Let’s go buy some really sexy underwear that will make people go crazy when they see it”

“Do I have to wear it?”

“I have erotic underwear, you know.”

“You… have them?”

“It’s rarer not to have them at your age.”

“I-Is that so?… And, I’m the one who’s going to wear it?”

“Put them on!”

“Okay… I’m sorry.”

At that moment, I couldn’t really taste the pancakes I was eating.

“Masato-san! This is impossible! It’s completely impossible for me!”

I trust Masato’s sense, but this sheer, translucent purple underwear is beyond my comfort level!

“It suits you, don’t worry.”

“No, it’s impossible. Please forgive me.”

“He’s a sexy, wild handsome guy. We need to be bold like this.”

“Being too bold might scare him away, Masato-sama!”

“Fool.”

“Being a fool is fine. Please forgive me.”

“Well, at least try this.”

What Masato handed me was a plain black sheer underwear, unlike the purple one.

It’s less sheer than the purple one.

Maybe this is okay?

At that moment, I had no idea that I was falling into Masato’s trap.

When I got home, I received a call from Aoi-san.

“Hello?”

“Is now a good time?”

“Yeah, it’s fine.”

“Did you have fun today?”

“Well, it was okay… We went shopping, had a meal, watched a movie, and came back. Aoi, what kind of movies do you like? You said you’re not into romance movies, right? What do you like?”

“Action… Ahhh, I shouldn’t have made this call.”

“Why?… I was happy.”

“You’ll start wanting to see me.”

I’m going to die from the cuteness!

Aoi-san is trying to kill me.

“Why?”

“…I’m going to die.”

“Why?”

“…I like you.”

“…Ahhhh~ I’m going to die from the cuteness!”

Aoi-san, those lines are meant for me.

“Let’s meet this weekend,” Aoi-san said.

“Yeah.”

“I’ll make something delicious.”

“Yeah.”

“…Well, I’ll call you again.”

“…Sure, good night.”

After the call ended, I dove onto the bed and kicked my feet in excitement.

Is it really that weird to be all mushy and excited by myself?

In my heart, I couldn’t let anyone know that I thought it felt like I was a middle schooler with a crush on someone for the first time.

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.