Tag: Handsome Male Lead

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 13 (Part 2)

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Chapter 13 (Part 2) – Tempura

I turned around and met Aoi-san’s gaze.

“Since I’ve arranged to have beef tongue ordered, I’ll leave the cooking to Aoi-san.”

Aoi-san looked a bit complex before speaking.

“How far are you going with these jobs?”

“From cleaning up the Clumsy Brothers’ messes to assisting the boss?”

Aoi-san crossed her arms and started to worry.

Chi-kun, who had a slightly concerned look, said in a hesitant tone.

“Is Miko-chan going to decide the boss’s daughter’s birthday present too?”

“Oh, no. It’s different. His daughter emails me a list of things she wants. She got into the habit of secretly looking at the boss’s phone and sending me the emails. She’s a clever kid.”

Both Chi-kun and Aoi-san fell silent, so I decided to order pumpkin tempura, sweet potato tempura, and squid tempura next.

Lately, even the boss’s wife emails me lists of things she wants and asks for help with resolving fights.

I think to myself that they should handle their own affairs, but somehow, I end up getting involved due to my weakness.

“Miko-chan, you’re good at taking care of others.”

“Isn’t it more like meddling?”

“No, you’re caring, aren’t you?”

“Well, I guess so.”

While we were talking like that, Aoi-san’s phone rang this time.

“Oh, it’s Chi’s dad.”

“I don’t call him ‘dad.'”

“Hello, is this Kouji Yukiharu?… Huh? No, it’s impossible! I can’t do it! Come pick him up!… Didn’t I tell you I have a date today?”

Based on what Aoi-san was saying, it seems like Chi-kun’s pickup isn’t likely to come.

“It’s because they sometimes entrust me with him during his dates with his girlfriend. That’s why it turns out like this. You know, dad and mom have left me with Ao-chan before, and they’ve never come back in just two hours! Miko-chan, are you staying over at Ao-chan’s house today? Are you guys going to take a bath together and sleep together?”

“Hey! Chi-kun! What kind of promise are you making? There’s no way I’m allowing that!”

“Oh, really? Were you listening? I’m still a kid!”

“Don’t mess around!”

“Ao-chan is stingy.”

“A 12-year-old is a respectable man! Don’t let it come to your life!”

“Stingy!”

Aoi-san seems to be irritated about various things.

Or maybe Chi-kun doesn’t look 12.

Is he the type to act all grown-up at the front of the line?

“Miko-chan, is it not okay?”

“It’s not okay!”

“Geez, but I really like Miko-chan.”

“Thank you.”

It seems like Aoi-san is still talking with Chiha-kun’s dad.

“Do you like Ao-chan, Miko-chan?”

“I do.”

“What about him?”

“The part where he’s good at cooking.”

“Miko-chan, you’re quite a foodie, aren’t you?”

“… … Yeah.”

“Well, whatever! I’ll be on Miko-chan’s side. So today, I’ll sleep quietly in the guest room, so you and Ao-chan can snuggle up.”

Hey, that little brat.

I think it’s only natural for such words to come to mind.

“I won’t snuggle up.”

“You won’t snuggle up?”

“I won’t!”

“You won’t, huh?”

In the end, Aoi-san teased me!

“Well, well, you can’t really snuggle up when it’s not just the two of you, right?”

“Even when it’s just the two of us, you won’t snuggle up to me!”

“… … Really? … …”

Chi-kun’s eyebrows furrowed.

“Ao-chan, sorry about that.”

“It’s not Chi’s fault… Yukiharu will deal with it later… damn it~”

It seemed that Aoi-san had realized that we definitely wouldn’t be able to snuggle up today, and he lowered his head in frustration.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 13 (Part 1)

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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.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 12

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Chapter 12 – Confession?

Today is a “No Overtime Day”! It’s a day when we’re not supposed to work overtime.

Of course, my work is done, and I’ve finished helping out the Clumsy Brothers too. I have a date planned for later today.

“Iwabuchi-senpai!”

“What is it, Hayama?”

“I like you, Senpai Iwabuchi! Please go out with me!”

What’s with this guy? Doesn’t he realize he’s a klutz?

No, maybe even a klutz has his own way of thinking?

Is he building a wall so that he doesn’t run away in front of everyone at the company?

But he can’t escape this situation either.

“It’s impossible! I’ve never seen you as a man, Hayama! I don’t intend to in the future either! I have a boyfriend already! We’re madly in love! So, I’m sorry!”

Hayama looked pale, but he’ll probably be fine since he’s surrounded by girls who are trying to console him and make him theirs.

“Don’t you think it’s a bit too much in front of everyone?”

“But, I’ve never seen Hayama and Ishiyama-senpai as guys even for a moment.”

“Hey! Don’t just lump me in with Hayama!”

While Ishiyama-senpai was shouting, a call came in.

Of course, it was from Aoi-san.

“Hello, Aoi-san?”

“Can I come pick you up? I’m nearby since I was close by for work.”

“I just finished too. I’ll get ready right away.”

“No need to rush.”

“I’ll hurry. You know Aoi-san, if you’re alone, you’ll be surrounded by carnivores, right?”

“… …”

“Wait for me.”

“Got it.”

After hanging up the phone, I waved to Ishiyama Senpai.

“Well then, I’m going home for a date with my boyfriend.”

“A girl who can’t cook will get dumped quickly! If you break up, I’ll be there to comfort you.”

“If I get dumped, I’ll get comforted by Misato, so I won’t need you. Take care!”

I said just that and left the scene.

Today, I managed to get everything ready before Aoi-san arrived.

After waiting in front of the company for about 5 minutes, I saw Aoi-san approaching.

There were two things that caught my attention.

The first was that Aoi-san was dressed in a suit. He looked so handsome, just as I thought during our blind date!

The second was a girl, around 10 years old, clinging to Aoi-san’s arm.

… Could she be his hidden child?

“Iwabuchi! Sorry for keeping you waiting!”

No, no, instead of apologizing for making me wait, how about explaining the child first?

“Oh, is this Aoi-san’s child?”

“No, I was asked by a friend… just for two hours, they said… Sorry.”

“What’s her name?”

The adorable girl peeked at my face and said, “I heard you’re Aoi-chan’s girlfriend…”

“I’m Mikoto Iwabuchi. Nice to meet you.”

“I’m Chiharu. Can I call you Miko-chan?”

Chiharu had slightly brownish, fluffy hair that reached her shoulders, and her big round eyes were cute.

She’s so cute, but I wonder why she’s wearing pants instead of a frilly skirt, which would suit her so well.

“Oh man, she’s seriously cute! It’s fine, it’s fine! You can call me Miko-chan! If I marry Aoi-san, will Chi-chan come along?”

Aoi-san looked surprised and then said, “I know Chi is cute in appearance, but… Iwabuchi…”

As Chiharu moved away from Aoi-san, she hugged onto me.

“I want to marry Miko-chan because I like her.”

“Huh?”

“Chii! Iwabuchi belongs to me, so no! Let go!”

“Chii-chan is soft and smells nice.”

Aoi-san put his arm under Chiharu’s armpit and pulled her away from me.

“I said she’s mine too, didn’t I? Only I’m allowed to touch Iwabuchi’s boobs and pinch them! Did I give you permission?”

“Did you? I don’t remember.”

“Is that not allowed?”

“…”

Chiharu smiled sweetly.

“Aoi-chan! I’m hungry! I want tempura!”

“Tempura, huh… Iwabuchi, is tempura okay?”

“I can eat anything delicious!”

“That’s the best answer. Iwabuchi, Would you prefer eating at home or outside, Chi?”

“Is Miko going to cook?”

“I absolutely won’t cook!”

“Is that so? I want to try Miko’s cooking.”

“Go die.”

“Huh?”

“Aoi-san is the one who makes delicious things!”

“… Let’s eat out.”

Aoi-san chuckled.

“Yeah, let’s go to a good tempura place!”

When Aoi-san let go of Chiharu, she clung onto my arm.

“Hey, Chi! Let go.”

“It’s okay, Aoi-san.”

“I just don’t want any guy other than me touching you, Iwabuchi!”

Wait, does this mean Chiharu is a boy?

Even though he’s so cute?

I guess there are quite a few cute guys these days.

“Anyway, let go!”

I wrapped my free arm around Aoi-san’s arm.

“I’m hungry too! Plus, getting jealous over a child?”

“Is that so? Dammit.”

“I’m happy!”

“You’re going to keep being all sweet and clingy like this, aren’t you?”

“That’s not it! I was just genuinely happy. Tempura, tempura.”

Walking with both of them on either side, I began to walk.

There’s no point causing a scene here. I needed to eat soon, or my stomach would start rumbling, but I kept that secret to myself.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone – Chapter 11

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Chapter 11 – Close Friends

It seems that there’s something special about Kawaue Aoi within me. For some reason, he tends to spoil me. All the guys I’ve been with before were always ones who wanted to be spoiled by me, so I don’t know how to handle Aoi-san’s desire to pamper me. Of course, I’m happy, but it’s a bit puzzling.

“… So, what kind of guy is the new one?”

“He’s a wild-looking handsome guy.”

“Do you have a photo?”

“Huh? Do I?”

“If you’re a woman in love, wouldn’t you set that handsome guy as your wallpaper?”

This straightforward woman is my best friend, Misato Ookuma.

We became close as colleagues at the same company. She’s a capable and cool woman on the path of an office lady. Her boyfriend seems to be a cute-type submissive guy. But that story can wait.

Right now, we’re in the cafeteria during our lunch break. I’m in the middle of reporting to Misato about my new boyfriend.

“Set it as wallpaper? Wouldn’t that be creepy?”

“Yeah, it’s creepy. But I want to see him! He’s handsome.”

“Isn’t Misato’s boyfriend handsome too?”

“Even when we’re together, he sometimes gets hit on. People always assume we’re a lesbian couple. And if I make him cross-dress, is he more cute than me, who is a handsome guy?”

“I don’t know!”

“See? That’s why show me the photo.”

I don’t quite understand, but it seems I have to show them the picture.

“Call and ask him to send it now!”

“Oh, okay…”

With no refusal rights, I took out my smartphone. After a brief call, Aoi-san answered the phone in a hurried tone.

“Hello, what’s up?”

“Oh, well, I wanted a photo of you, Aoi-san…”

“I see. I’ll send it now, so wait.”

Aoi-san said that and hung up. I waited for a while, sipping on soba noodles.

“Are you continuing the story?”

“… Aoi-san is different from the guys I’ve been with before, so I hope it continues…”

Misato was grinning at me, making the situation awkward.

At that moment, the sound of an incoming message, presumably with a photo, rang.

I opened the picture and froze.

The photo from Aoi-san was of him shirtless with a towel on his head and another towel wrapped around his waist.

Why is this happening?

Wild has become even wilder!

“Which one?… Wild~”

“He’s got six-pack abs. Who is this guy? He’s your boyfriend, right?”

“Yeah, uh, yeah.”

For now, I called Aoi-san.

“Hello?”

“Why are you sending a semi-nude picture?”

“I just got out of the bath.”

“…”

“You can set it as your wallpaper if you want.”

“I won’t do that. If I set this as my wallpaper, it’ll be too embarrassing! People might even think I’m sexually frustrated…”

“Send me a picture of yourself later. I’ll enjoy looking at it with happiness.”

“That’s creepy!”

“You hurt my feelings!”

“I couldn’t just stay silent!”

“If you don’t send me a candid photo later, I’ll take one next time we meet.”

“Okay, fine then.”

“I’ll take a sexy photo.”

“No way!”

Aoi-san hung up with a cheerful laughter.

He seems to have said something he shouldn’t have.

“So, you’ve been embraced by this wild guy.”

“He just hugged me tightly.”

“Huh? Why?”

“My stomach growled.”

“…Your appetite is something else, seriously.”

I think the same.

“But he’s a good guy, isn’t he? What about his job?”

“He’s a jewelry designer… Do you know ‘gunjo’?”

“You mean there’s a woman you don’t know?”

“I-Is it that famous?”

“Accessories with delicate craftsmanship inspired by nature that go well with any style? Even some princess is said to be a fan. But anyway… huh? The designer for gunjo?”

“Yeah…”

“Tell him to sell it cheaply for me.”

“I won’t! It’s not like I fell for him because he’s a jewelry designer!”

Misato said with a grin.

“Then, what made you fall for him?”

“He’s good at cooking!”

“…You… well, do your best.”

Misato took my smartphone and stared at Aoi-san’s photo intently.

Is it okay to seriously look at someone else’s boyfriend’s semi-nude photo?

Well, Aoi-san probably wouldn’t be embarrassed even if he’s seen.

“He has a good body.”

“Yeah…”

I couldn’t help but get close to him that morning.

His breakfast was so delicious that day…

“Senior Ookuma, what are you looking at~?”

“Huh?… Send it to my phone!”

“Who the hell are you? Go away.”

By the way, Misato doesn’t like Himekawa.

Misato handed my smartphone back to me.

“Well, it’s okay. Let him make you happy.”

“Yeah, I am. He’s making me happy.”

“No, really, you’re cute.”

Misato said that and started slurping her curry udon.

It’s only natural to want to say, “Stop splattering curry sauce in my direction.”

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 10

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Chapter 10 – “Hot Sandwich” – From Aoi’s Perspective

When I woke up, there was a bare-faced Iwabuchi right in front of me. As expected, when the makeup comes off, you can see a cute aspect within the beauty.

Last night, I gave Iwabuchi some alcohol, and she got drunk.

“You can’t go home all sloppy like that, right?”

“Makeup… want to take it off.”

Reluctantly, I went to the convenience store right next to the apartment, bought makeup remover sheets, and removed Iwabuchi ‘s makeup. Once I returned from the store, Iwabuchi had fallen asleep with a soft snore. Removing Iwabuchi ‘s makeup was quite easy.

I felt like kissing her cute face, but doing so without permission could lead to accusations of harassment. I lifted her up and carried her to the living room. I wanted to keep looking at her sleeping face, so I got into bed together with her.

After watching her for a while, I thought maybe I could quietly move away once I got bored. But for some reason, I didn’t get bored.

Resting my arm as a pillow, I gently brushed aside the bangs that were on her face, and she smiled happily as if in response.

Oh no, I might just die from how cute this is.

Without thinking, I stroked her head.

Her hair was soft and fluffy, and touching it was the best feeling.

It was soothing.

Ah, it makes me happy that the necklace I made for her is around her neck.

The whiteness of her skin suits the kyanite well.

Should I make a ring with kyanite too?

This is nice, but perhaps she would look better with a slightly more mature design.

I want to make a ring and a bangle together.

The joy of seeing She wear something I created.

While savoring happiness, I continued to stroke her head.

I seemed to have fallen asleep without noticing. A while after I woke up, Iwabuchi’s eyes opened. Quickly, I pretended to still be asleep.

I could sense that she was looking at me.

“……Since we’re at it…”

She slowly leaned against my chest.

So cute!! What is this? My heart’s pounding like crazy! Seriously!

“Whoa! Too… tight… L-let go…”

I might have overdone it. My bad.

“My bad… morning…”

“Good morning… Can I ask you something?”

“What?”

“Did we do it?”

Iwabuchi said something incredible.

“Is it okay that we did it?”

“Well, it’s generally better if there’s a memory of it… But, isn’t it normal for two adults of opposite gender meeting alone to consider the possibility? Just in case?”

“Is it too late to do it now?”

“I’m hungry.”

“Right now?”

“I can’t hold it any longer.”

Right on time, Aoi’s stomach growled. At this point, all you can do is laugh.

As I burst into laughter, Aoi’s face turned red.

“You’re laughing too much.”

“I can’t help it! It’s seriously funny.”

“Okay, make food already… Wait, huh? Did I remove my makeup?”

“Yeah, you were making a fuss about wanting to remove it, so I helped you.”

“Huh? So, am I makeup-free now?”

“Yeah.”

“Oh no!”

Iwabuchi covered her face with both hands.

Even though I think there isn’t much difference without makeup, Aoi seems to be embarrassed.

“It’s too embarrassing.”

“It’s not that different, and honestly, I think you look even better without makeup. It complements the necklace I gave you.”

Aoi’s face turned even redder, and she turned away.

“Heart attack.”

“That’s my line, isn’t it?”

Aoi slowly removed her hands from her face. We found ourselves gazing at each other unintentionally. This might work out!

I instinctively leaned in, anticipating a kiss. Just as our lips were about to touch, Iwabuchi’s stomach made a silly noise, “Grrrr.”

I burst out laughing and sat up. Iwabuchi also sat up and playfully smacked my back.

“I’ll make breakfast right away.”

“I’m so embarrassed.”

“You’re making fun of me, aren’t you?”

“Do I look like I’m making fun of you?”

“You do!”

“Hmm, that’s odd. I thought I was hiding it well…”

Iwabuchi playfully smacked my back again.

She was so cute, I couldn’t resist ruffling her hair before heading to the kitchen.

For this morning’s breakfast, I made bacon and cheese hot sandwiches, onion soup, and a fresh salad with sesame dressing.

I made something quick and easy, but will Iwabuchi be pleased?

Occasionally, there are people who only have vegetable juice or acai bowls for breakfast, or they put chia seeds in everything. But She is different.

“How is it?”

“It’s delicious! Aoi would make a great wife.”

“Would you become a husband?”

“Wearing a frilly apron?”

“Gross!”

Aoi chuckled happily.

“Wouldn’t it be better if you wore it instead of me? Naked.”

“That’s even worse.”

“Isn’t it a man’s fantasy?”

“I don’t know~ and I don’t want to know~”

With each bite, Aoi smiled and moved their mouth, like a small animal being fed, tickling my nurturing instincts.

“All guys have those kinds of desires.”

“Gross.”

“You hurt my feelings!”

Looking over, Iwabuchi’s plate was already empty.

“There’s seconds if you want.”

“Nah, I might have eaten too much.”

“Then, shall we exercise?”

“…I’ll pass.”

“Don’t make me cry! I even held back from kissing you all night!”

Aoi, you’re such a gentleman! I’ve fallen for you all over again!”

“…Damn, I’m being completely played…”

As I buried my face in my hands, Iwabuchi spoke with a serious expression.

“Even though I’m like this, would you consider making me your girlfriend, Aoi?”

The unexpected words made heat rush to my face.

Iwabuchi, being mine?

I was so overwhelmed with joy that I didn’t know what to say.

“Is it a no? Too much trouble?”

“You can tell from my face, can’t you?”

“It’s bright red.”

“Isn’t that your answer?”

“Is it embarrassing?”

“Happy, actually?… Seriously, I’ll treasure you.”

Iwabuchi smiled with a sense of relief.

Looking at that smile, I made a promise in my heart to cherish Iwabuchi for the rest of my life, something that she would never know.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 8

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Chapter 8 – Jewelry Designer

It’s done. Today’s work is finished! It’s finally the end of the workday. I ignored my surroundings, stood up, and picked up my smartphone.

“Iwabuchi-senpai!”

“Sorry, but I can’t help you today… Um, hello, Aoi-san? I’m finished now, so I’m thinking of going to your place. Can you please tell me your address?”

I noticed that Hayama beside me turned pale.

“I’m nearby, so I’ll come to pick you up. Let’s choose some drinks and go back together.” Aoi replied.

“That sounds great. Alright, I’ll wait for you in front of the office.”

“Sure, I’ll be there.”

I’m sure Aoi-san must have smiled at that. With that thought in mind, I was about to end the call when Ishiyama-senpai grabbed my shoulder.

“Do you understand what going to a guy’s place means?” he asked.

“That’s right! Think it over, Iwabuchi-senpai!”

“He’s just treating me to a meal, nothing more.”

“We’re definitely up for it!”

What’s with these useless brothers!

“You don’t get it, huh? After he treats you, you’ll be treating him, Iwabuchi!”

If he treats me, I’ll be grateful, won’t I?

I haven’t been in it for about 3 years, but I’m not a virgin, and Aoi-san is attracted to many different women, so it seems unlikely that he’s inexperienced.

Wearing special underwear for today’s showdown is just basic etiquette, isn’t it?

I’m trying not to overdo it with my enthusiasm; it’s like an insurance for my heart.

I don’t want to come off as flashy or desperate.

It might not create that kind of atmosphere, and I don’t dislike Aoi-san, I feel like there’s a connection… It might be a bit too fast, but we’re adults, so it shouldn’t hurt to be prepared.

“So?”

“So? You don’t get it!”

“Ishiyama-senpai and Hayama are so close… Why don’t you two just date each other?”

“Creepy!”

You guys are a perfect match, I think, useless brothers.

“Iwabuchi-senpai, is it a date~? I want to see your boyfriend~ Introduce him to me~”

Is it my imagination that Himekawa’s smile looks like a hunter?

“Oh, I don’t think he’s the type I would introduce…”

“Eh~ I don’t mind that kind of thing, so it’s okay~”

For some reason, Himekawa’s face looks like she’s mocking me, and it annoys me. She must have decided that Aoi-san is of low standard. I don’t want to show… I got a text message.

“I’m here.”

He’s here already.

I packed my things and said, “Okay, I’m leaving.”

“I’ll come along~”

“You don’t have to.”

Despite my refusal, Himekawa followed me.

The lobby is clearly noisy because of Aoi-san. When I head toward the commotion, I see Aoi-san surrounded by female employees.

“Who are you waiting for?”

“It’s Iwabuchi Mikoto.”

“Huh? It’s that person again?”

“Again?”

Good stories don’t seem to be happening.

“Aoi, sorry to keep you waiting.”

“She’s here now.”

Aoi rushed over to where I was, away from the female employee.

“You must be tired.”

“Aoi, you look a bit tired too.”

“Hahaha, I’m used to it.”

“Yeah, I understand.”

As I said that, Aoi gave a slight smile.

“What drink would you like?”

“It depends on the dish.”

“Italian.”

“Meat or fish?”

“Fish.”              

“Then, white wine or rosé?”

“Champagne is also an option.”

“Aoi, you’re a genius.”

“Of course?”

Aoi-san chuckled happily.

“Wait, why is Aoi Kawakami here…?”

Suddenly, a low voice came from behind, and when I turned around, Himekawa was glaring at me.

Scary!

She regained her composure and made a smiling face, standing in front of Aoi and tilting her head.

Aoi made a refined smile and shook hands with her.

“I’m a junior of Iwabuchi-senpai! Can I join you for the meal?”

Himekawa directed a sparkling and cute smile at Aoi.

“Sorry! I’m planning to seize the heart of someone today, so please don’t disturb.”

“Huh?”

Himekawa seemed surprised that her sparkling smile didn’t work on Aoi.

“I’m okay with it though?” I said

“I don’t want that!”

Although I said it as a joke, Aoi’s forehead wrinkled.

“It was just a joke.”

“Good to know. Well, let’s go before someone becomes a hindrance.”

Himekawa’s fierce expression was scary.

I looked away from Himekawa and was pulled away by Aoi, leaving the scene.

“…Aoi is really famous, isn’t he?”

“Oh? You didn’t know?”

“No.”                   

“It’s written in celebrity magazines, don’t you think?”

“I don’t even know of the existence of celebrity magazines.”

“Even my three measurements are in there.”

“Set it on fire right now.”

“I don’t want to.”

Aoi is grinning.

“I wonder if Aoi’s fishing book is with your father? Let’s go get it later.”

“If you see my fishing book, you’ll fall for me, you know!”

“I heard for the first time yesterday from my brother that he’s a famous jewelry designer.”

Aoi looked at me with a slightly troubled expression. What’s going on?

“But, I kind of understand now. Because Aoi’s sweets are sparkling and beautiful like jewels.”

“…So?”

“What do you mean ‘so’?”

“So? What do you want, like a necklace or a ring…”

I couldn’t help but let out a deep sigh.

“How many annoying girls are you involved with? I’m fine on my own. I’ll buy what I like myself.”

“…But somehow, that makes me feel lonely!”

I chuckled.

Aoi-san looked at me like he’s seeing something rare.

“Maybe I’d like to see the jewelry you designed?”

“Do you want to see them? There’s a shop nearby where my works are displayed.”

“Yes.”

Aoi-san grabbed my hand, and led me to the nearby shop.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? – Chapter 7

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Chapter 7 – Annoying Senior, Annoying Junior 1 and Annoying Junior 2

The next morning, when I checked my smartphone, I had received an email.

“I’m sorry about yesterday. What time will you finish today? if I remember correctly, You said that I could invite you, right?” the email read.

Feeling a bit light-hearted, I replied to the email.

“I don’t know what time I’ll finish, so I’ll email you when I’m done.”

“Got it. I’ll have something ready for you to eat right away.”

Reading that email, I couldn’t help but smile secretly. I decided to keep it a secret.

When was the last time I thought working on a holiday was troublesome?

Sitting to my right at the desk was my senior, Ishiyama. To my left was my junior, Hayama. Both of them had been staring at me for a while now.

“Get back to work already,” I said, but they remained unfazed.

I only have about an hour left of work. I was asked by the department head to take care of these two, but to be honest, I didn’t care.

Today, once I finish, I’ll leave right away. These two are so annoying; I want to get out of here quickly.

“That guy is definitely trying to pull off a marriage scam. You know Iwabuchi, right?”

“Are you suggesting that the arranged marriage partner, selected by my father, is a fraud? Senpai, why don’t you visit a hospital?”

A brief silence followed.

“Alright, then how about this: ‘Iwabuchi senpai is scamming people with his cooking skills!'”

“Hayama, let me punch you once.”

“I’m sorry.”

These two are seriously disrespectful. What’s worse is that they’re useless at work but still get attention from the female employees at the company just because they have good looks.

Moreover, even though I’m the one assisting with their work, they get all the credit.

Among my colleagues, only the department head is on my side.

The department head knows both my abilities and their incompetence.

“I deliberately use them as display pandas, and you manipulate them from behind the scenes. You’re capable of doing that! Iwabuchi, I highly value you! I won’t make a mistake like giving them a bonus more than you! So, please take care of them! By the way, my daughter has a violin recital on Saturday, so I leave everything to you, Iwabuchi! You can punch these two if you want! Hang in there!”

I wondered if it’s okay for the department head to hit them too, but I kept that thought a secret!

Pulling myself together, I was supposed to feel relieved that the department head trusted me enough to handle the weekend work, but… these two were just too annoying.

“Iwabuchi it’s not going to succeed.” ,” Hayama said.

“Y-yeah! I mean, it’s impossible for someone like Iwabuchi-senpai, who can’t cook, to be with such a handsome guy!” Ishiyama added.

How can I put an end to these two?

Just as I was contemplating, my arch-enemy, if I may call her that, appeared.

“Oh~ there’s Ishiyama senpai and Hayama senpai~ Working on your day off, are you?”

I really don’t like this girl.

Right now, I’m practically invisible.

It seems I don’t exist to her Because she didn’t include my name while talking to them.

“Himekawa, are you also working on a holiday?” he asked.

Ishiyama-senpai wore a wry smile as he spoke to Himekawa Yua.

Oh no, not again. All the slackers seem to gather here.

This girl, Himekawa Yuna, is a new graduate who joined last year.

She doesn’t even seem interested in learning the job and instead tries to flirt with the guys.

Her looks are average, but she tries to enhance them with makeup to make herself slightly above average.

Despite that, she seems to believe she’s really cute.

She’s the kind of girl that other girls dislike.

And it seems Himekawa really hates me.

Why, you ask? Of course, it’s because of those useless brothers by my side.

She finds it annoying that I’m always cleaning up after them.

Even though they should be on a “No-Problem-Here’s-a-Present-for-You” mode…

I couldn’t help but let out a deep sigh.

“Ah! So Iwabuchi-senpai was here! Oh, um, did I do something wrong? If I did, I apologize~”

It seems Himekawa wants to paint me as the bad guy.

“Himekawa-san, then go ahead and apologize,” I said.

“Huh?”

“You want to apologize, right?”

Hayama’s sadistic personality was leaking out.

“Oh, don’t worry about it. I’m almost done with my work, so I’ll be heading home soon.”

“What?!?”

Both Ishiyama and Hayama let out a surprised voice at the same time.

I didn’t take my eyes off the computer screen.

“You’re meeting that guy?”

“Yes.”        

Ishiyama stood up.

“I don’t approve of it!”

“Why do I need your permission? Just focus on your work and stay quiet!”

Ishiyama grumbled and sat back down.

“I want Iwabuchi-senpai to be happy…”

“Hayama, finish your work at Mach speed.”

“No, it’s not like that…”

“Just get it done quietly.”

“Yes…”

Himekawa was pretending to be scared of Iwabuchi-senpai, but it’s accurate, so I’ll forgive it!

Itsyoii note: I really don’t like those type of people who thinks they can say anything they like and thinks they have the right to my life. What do you thinks?

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? Chapter 6

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Chapter 6 – Strawberry Tart

After enjoying the delicious sea bream rice, when I looked at Aoi, she smiled mischievously.

“This person is seriously drunk,” I thought.

“What would you like next?” asked the chef.

“Hmm… I’ll have dessert, please. I got a bit carried away with the Tai-meshi,” I replied.

“Alright,” said the chef.

He brought out a fruit tart topped with plenty of strawberries. The strawberries were sparkling like jewels.

“They look so beautiful,” I remarked.

“I know, right?” Aoi chuckled.

Aoi received the fruit tart the chef served.

The palm-sized tart got me excited.

“Let’s dig in!” I said.

“Well… how is it?” Aoi asked.

“…” I was speechless.

I really love the sweets Aoi makes!

“You like it?” Aoi asked.

“Love it!” I exclaimed.

“!”

“I really love the sweets you make, Aoi.”

“…Sweets, huh…” he muttered

Aoi slumped a bit.

“Thank you, Aoi. You always treat me to such delicious food,” I said gratefully.

“And what about me?” Aoi asked.

“Huh?”

“Do you like me?”

“…This is only our third time meeting today.”

“Even after three times, I love you,” Aoi confessed.

He was confessing to me at a sushi restaurant, and he seemed to be nicely tipsy. I shouldn’t take this too seriously, I know that much.

“You’re quite used to this kind of thing,” I said.

“This is the first time I’ve said something like this,” Aoi replied.

“Well, say it when you’re not drunk. Then I’ll consider it,” I teased.

“Your response is quite well-practiced,” she said.

“I’ve been approached by drunks before, so I’m used to it,” I replied.

Aoi gazed at my face for a while, then turned to the chef.

“Clam soup and tea,” he requested.

A collaboration of liquids.

“Sure thing. Today, the lady wins,” the chef said.

“Huh?”

“Clam soup is good for reducing intoxication. It seems Mr. Kawakami has realized he’s had too much to drink,” the chef explained.

Aoi looked embarrassed and tried to hide it from me.

Despite this wild appearance, he’s so cute.

“I like people who can admit their faults,” I said.

Aoi smiled at my words.

“Just keep liking me as I am,” he said.

“I’ll consider that as time goes on. Please treat me again without hesitation.” I replied.

“Next time, I’ll cook for you. Will you eat it?” Aoi asked.

“Of course! I’d love to try something other than the sweets you make!” I replied.

Aoi happily messed up my hair as she laughed.

I wonder if there’s a way to do something about this situation.

After the meal, I hailed a taxi and got a ride home.

“Thank you so much for the wonderful treat today,” I said.

“…Don’t you usually say something like, ‘Would you like some tea?'” Aoi responded.

“I told you, I won’t invite someone I’ve only met three times to my single-person household,” I explained.

“I see. I like that about you,” Aoi said.

“Drunkard!” I thought.

“I’d say the same even if I wasn’t drunk. I love you, Kawakami.”

What a drunkard! My heart’s going to explode!

“I have to go to work early tomorrow, so I should get some sleep. Until next time,” I said.

“Once again, a well-practiced line,” Aoi replied.

“It’s the first time someone has escorted me all the way to my doorstep.”

“You’ve never been dropped off at your doorstep before?” I asked.

Aoi smiled awkwardly and said, “I haven’t.”

“I’ll invite you again,” Aoi said.

“Yes,” I replied.

“Are you free tomorrow night?” Aoi asked.

“Can you message me tomorrow? Drunkards tend to forget things,” I teased.

“I get it. I won’t forget!” Aoi said.

I smiled at him, and Aoi reluctantly left.

Honestly, I had a great time.

But that doesn’t mean I’ll invite him into my home.

He’s drunk after all.

Once I got home, I took a bath, freshened up, and relieved my fatigue After getting out of the bath, I received a message from my brother.

“Heard you went on a date with an amazing guy! Good luck!” he wrote.

“Amazing guy? Who are you talking about?” I replied.

“You didn’t even look at the business card of your matchmaking partner?” my brother asked.

“I don’t remember being given any business card,” I replied.

“He’s a famous jewelry designer, right?” my brother continued.

“Oh, really? All I know is he’s a wild and handsome guy who’s good at cooking,” I replied.

In my brother’s last message, he wrote something interesting.

“Glad my sister is marrying a man.”

Wait, is he implying that Aoi is my future husband?

…I can’t deny it.

The thought of Aoi as my husband… Sorry, I couldn’t help but imagine him wearing a frilly white apron, welcoming me home.

Even though he’s a wild and handsome guy, it might suit him a bit?

I burst out laughing while holding my stomach. Please forgive me for that.

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? Chapter 5 – Part 2

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Chapter 5 – Sea Bream Rice (Part 2)

“Here’s the tamagoyaki.”

“Wow… so fluffy… delightful!”

“Do you like jealous men?”

I answering immediately to his sudden question.

“Annoying.”

“…I thought so.”

Aoi, who had been in high spirits until now, seemed a bit sullen this time.

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing.”

“You’re acting angry.”

“I’m not angry.”

The head chef chuckled and said, “He isn’t angry, he is jealous, miss.”

“Head chef!”

“Jealous? Why?”

Aoi downed his drink and replied, “Because you’re enjoying the chef’s cooking too much!”

“Huh? Is that not okay? Then why did you bring me here?”

Aoi scratched his head in frustration.

“I like watching you eat.”

“Thank you.”

“I want you to enjoy the food I make the most.”

?

“So why did you bring me here?”

“Because… I thought I would enjoy watching you eat.”

“And?”

“…I envy the head chef… is this interrogation going to continue?”

I couldn’t resist and patted Aoi’s head, which he had rested on the counter, and ruffled his hair a bit.

“I’m going to swoon.”

“You’re drunk.”

What is this? This guy is unexpectedly cute. Even though he doesn’t look cute, but he’s adorable. He’s the one making me swoon.

“Tai-meshi (sea bream rice) is ready.”

“Wow~”

The head chef served me a nabe with a whole sea bream on top.

“May I break it apart?”

“Please do.”

In front of me, the sea bream was skillfully disassembled the bones and difficult-to-eat parts were removed. Then, the rice underneath the sea bream was mixed, and chopped ginger was sprinkled on top. It was served in a bowl in front of me.

“It looks delicious!”

“And there’s that cute face again.”

“Come on, you drunkard. You’re getting annoying!”

“I can’t help it, I’m drunk!”

Ignoring Aoi, I indulged in the taimeshi.

“Head chef! You’re a genius! I might fall for you!”

“Thank you very much.”

The head chef smiled.

“Head chef, I envy you!”

Aoi said this while downing another drink.

“Aoi-san, take it easy!”

“I’m drowning my sorrows!”

“Aoi, I was looking forward to having tart today, you know. So, even if you can’t watch me eat because you’re drunk, don’t worry about it.”

“…I don’t like that.”

“See? Now, let’s enjoy the tai-meshi. It’s incredibly delicious, as expected from Aoi’s recommendation.”

As I smiled, Aoi reluctantly started eating the tai-meshi.

“Next time, I’ll make the taimeshi. I heard it’s even better with cherry blossoms pickled in salt, so I want to try it.”

“Looking forward to it.”

“…”

For some reason, Aoi roughly patted my head.

My hair got all messed up.

What am I going to do with this guy? My head is a mess now!

“You’re a strong woman,” the chef said.

“Huh?”

“You’ve tamed someone like Kawaue-san.”

“Uh, excuse me?”

“I thought Kawaue-san didn’t get along with women in general. But it seems different with you.”

I looked at Aoi.

Aoi lightly pinched and touched my hair.

Please don’t create a sweet atmosphere on your own.

“…Another serving, please.”

“Sure thing.”

The head chef chuckled as he brought another serving for us.

itsyoii note: Helloooo~ from this week i will update 3 days every week; Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday! Enjoy~~

IHEFE

Is Happiness Equal For Everyone? Chapter 5 – Part 1

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Chapter 5 – Sea Bream Rice (Part 1)

The place Aoi took me to was a high-class sushi restaurant. The middle-aged chef behind the counter had a stern expression, but when he saw Aoi, he softened and smiled.

“Chef, we’ll have tai meshi.” * Tai Meshi or Taimeshi (鯛飯) is seasoned rice cooked with sea bream. 

“Got it.”

Aoi slowly removed his wristwatch.

I remember my father used to say that in high-end sushi restaurants like this, they use single pieces of wood for the counter, and the restaurant dislikes customers scratching it, so it’s considered good manners to take off your wristwatch. Aoi is such a well-mannered and smart person.

“What would you like to drink?”

“For Japanese cuisine, it has to be sake, right?”

“Sounds good! Chef, we’ll have your recommendations.”

Aoi seems to be a regular customer here. It seemed like Aoi had complete trust in the chef.

“Here you go. Sake and a small appetizer, namero.”

The chef placed the namero and a bottle of sake in front of us. It’s probably a 720ml bottle, I think?

Aoi poured some sake into our cups from the bottle and then raised his cup for a toast.

“Cheers.”

“Cheers. We appreciate your hard work.”

For some reason, Aoi gave me a sly smile.

What’s with that?

“I like it when you say things like ‘We appreciate your hard work.’ or something like that”

“I see.”

Aoi quickly downed his sake in one go

I took a sip of the sake and then ate the namero.

“Mmm, this is heavenly!”

I unintentionally murmured.

Aoi, sitting next to me, asked, “Which one?” and reached for the namero on my plate with his chopsticks. I quickly defended my namero with my hand.

“Please eat yours.”

“It looks so delicious when Mikoto eats it.”

“Since I’m already eating it, I’ll finish it, so please give me yours.”

“No way!”

“Then just finish yours!”

When I said that, Aoi burst out laughing.

“What’s so funny?”

” It’s fun interacting with Mikoto. Don’t worry about it. Ask me for anything you want. Everything here is delicious.”

“I have to consider my wallet. Otherwise, it’s tough before payday.”

Aoi stopped laughing and gave me a puzzled look when I mentioned considering my wallet.

“Don’t you want me to treat you?”

“If you’re treating, I won’t hold back!”

” Well, I’ll treat you… But, don’t women expect men to treat them? Isn’t that the norm? I’ve only dated annoying women.”

“So, that’s why you break up with them?”

Ah, I see, no wonder he doesn’t have much trust in women.

As I was thinking that, the chef served us a plate of sushi.

“Beautiful! I’ll devour it in no time! …Delicious and heavenly!”

I quickly finished the sushi set, and the head chef smiled at me.

“You really enjoy your food,” he commented.

“Hey, chef, don’t try to win over Mikoto by feeding her! I’m trying to win her over by feeding her and making her fond of me.”

“Win me over? That won’t happen.”

“She won’t?… How about these tamagoyaki (rolled omelette) here? They’re delicious too.”

“I want to try them! Chef, could you please?”

“Don’t try to win me over, Chef!”

The chef chuckled and started making the tamagoyaki.

“Your skills are shameful,” Aoi said to chef

“Thank you for today.”

“Huh?”

“At work, two guys approached me, my senior and junior. It was helpful.”

Aoi grinned and emptied his cup.

“Were they pestering you?”

“They said they would date me once I improve my cooking skills. They acted high and mighty, saying I should attend cooking classes because I’m not good at it. It’s annoying! There’s this idea that women should naturally be good at cooking.”

I also emptied my cup at once.

“No need to worry about that. I’ll handle the cooking, and you just enjoy the delicious meal.”

His words were touching enough to bring tears to my eyes. I couldn’t help but well up.

“Huh? Mikoto?”

“Sorry, I got emotional.”

“Are you actually crying?”

“Yeah. Aoi, you’re the first non-extinct type of guy who doesn’t belittle my cooking skills.”

“I’m curious if there wasn’t a better way to express that.”

He seemed to have caught on to me treating him like a rare species.

“Well, forget it. If Mikoto likes me, that’s enough.”

“You say that to various women, don’t you?”

“I don’t even need to flirt; women just come to me.”

“I’ll come to you too, but then I’ll run away.”

Silence fell between us.

“I won’t run away.” I said again to assure him

“Who knows? I’m looking forward to it.”

“Oh, you’re expecting something? Good boy, good boy.”

Aoi happily sipped his drink.

It’s a bit embarrassing, I feel ticklish.