Chapter III | “Love Confession”

♣♣♣

In the morning, I parked my bike at the school bicycle parking lot.

That Saturday ended, Sunday passed, and now it’s Monday.

……Crap.

I haven’t slept at all these past two days. Thanks to that, I can’t stop yawning.

……How am I supposed to make sense of this? What’s even

happening in my life? I was so shocked at the mall that I haven’t really talked to Enomoto-san since then. The whole taxi ride back with her was painfully awkward.

As I was heading toward the school building, Himari’s voice called out from behind me.

“Yuu! Mornin’──!!”

My head’s ringing. She’s seriously energetic.

Even at the mall, she said she was going to buy drinks and left ahead of me. No matter how many times I texted her, she left me on read.

……Well, I’m grateful now. If it helps distract me even a little, that’s fine.

“Hey, Himari. Mornin’…?”

Himari was waving at me with her usual smile.

……About three meters away.

Huh? What’s going on? Why’s she so far away? She’s not coming closer, just standing there stiffly waving her hand. She looks like a mannequin in the mall’s clothing section.

“Himari. What’s up?”

“Huh? What do you mean?” “I mean, come over here.” “     ”

Himari, still smiling, gave a high-five to the air.

……To nothing.

“Hey, Yuu. You look kinda down, huh?” She just carried on like nothing was wrong.

What’s going on? It’s like a bugged online game. Seriously, it’s creepy. She was normal on Saturday, right?

“D-did something happen?” “Huh? What do you mean~?”

“No, that’s not possible. If I did something…” I started walking toward Himari.

But she immediately took a step back. For every step I took forward, she took one back. When I stepped back, she stepped forward.

We stared at each other, maintaining a precise three-meter distance.

“Seriously, what’s going on!? You’re acting weird!” “Eek! Yuu, don’t come closer! Don’t come any closer!” “Why not!?”

Seriously, I wish she’d stop doing this where other students can see. Because Himari’s cute, it’s really noticeable.

“Did I do something? If I said something that upset you…”

“Ah~. It’s not like that, but~. I just feel like I wanna keep about three meters away from Yuu for now…”

What kind of mood is that? Try being in my shoes, stuck orbiting her like a satellite.

Then, someone called out from behind me. “Yuu-kun. Morning.”

I turned around and froze.

It was Enomoto-san. She was glaring at me with her usual cold expression.

“…………”

I wasn’t mentally prepared for this.

As I stood there gaping, she furrowed her brows and grabbed the sleeve of my uniform, tugging it insistently. Then, she clearly repeated her greeting.

“Gooood. Morniiing.” “……M-morning.”

Her intensity left me no choice but to return the greeting.

Then, Enomoto-san shyly averted her gaze and let out a soft “Ehe.” That cute gesture stabbed straight through my heart.

……Huh? What’s going on? She’s suddenly acting all friendly? This is totally different from how she was at the mall on Saturday. Did her dialogue reset overnight like some NPC in a game?

Completely ignoring my confusion, Enomoto-san tilted her head. “Yuu-kun. What are you doing?”

……Yuu-kun. That’s my nickname now.

Apparently, when we said goodbye on Saturday, she decided to call me that from now on. We also exchanged LINE IDs.

……That was as far as it went, though. “Well, Himari’s…”

“Hii-chan?”

Enomoto-san turned her gaze toward Himari. Himari,  three  meters  away,  flinched.  “       ”

“…………”

An awkward silence fell.

Himari, looking tense, started slowly backing away. She was probably planning to make a run for it. ……Wait, what about class?

“Yuu-kun. I’ll handle this.” Then, Enomoto-san moved.

She reached into her bag and pulled out……a neatly packaged cookie.

“Hii-chan. I brought cookies.” “Eh, really!? Yay!”

Himari started approaching.

Just as she was about to take the cookie──Enomoto-san grabbed the back of her neck.

“Eek!? Enocchi, you tricked me!” “Hii-chan. What’s wrong?”

“Don’t talk so casually while grabbing my neck! I’m not a cat, you know!?”

“You’re pretty much the same. Come on, let’s head to class instead of playing around here.”

“Okay! Okay, so let go already!”

……Wow.

Himari’s completely at her mercy. This must be the skill she honed from all those childhood shenanigans.

We took off our shoes at the entrance and headed to the classroom together.

Himari’s distance was back to normal, but she’s been complaining nonstop since then.

“Enocchi’s always so pushy, huh~.”

“It’s Hii-chan’s fault for always causing trouble.” “I only cause trouble for Yuu, though~.”

“Sigh. Why did Yuu-kun’s friend have to be Hii-chan of all people……”

Enomoto-san’s genuinely annoyed. The dynamic between these two is hard to grasp, and it’s kinda frustrating.

As we climbed the stairs, Enomoto-san pulled out another small bag of cookies from her bag.

She held it tightly, psyching herself up. She glanced at me, and when our eyes met, she quickly looked away. She took a deep breath and then turned to face me.

……What’s she doing? I couldn’t help but wonder. Then, Enomoto-san nervously held out the bag. “For Yuu-kun too……”

“Seriously? Ah, thanks……”

I ended up accepting it respectfully.

Huh……? Is she really this embarrassed just handing me

cookies? She’s so cute…… Wait, I shouldn’t stare at Enomoto- san’s face too much.

It’s the kind with milk and cocoa dough, with a pattern on it. I only knew about the square checkered ones, but this one has a cute cat design.

……The craftsmanship is incredible.

“Is this from your family’s shop, Enomoto-san?” Ouch. For some reason, Himari pinched my side.

What were you planning to do if I accidentally yelled out loud?

“Yuu, are you actually an idiot? Who says something so tactless in this situation?”

“Eh? Then, did Enomoto-san make these……?” Enomoto-san nodded eagerly.

Now that I look closely, there’s no store label or anything. “I’m only good at things like this……”

She’s being modest.

These cookies are so beautifully made, they look like something from a high-end Tokyo pastry shop. I’ll eat them alone later. I’m sure Himari will try to steal them, but I’m not giving them up.

“Well then, Yuu-kun. See you after school.” “Ah, yeah.”

At the top of the stairs, Enomoto-san waved and left.

……Cool and cute as she walked away.

“Yuu. Your nose is practically growing, huh~?” “……!?”

I covered my nose with my hand.

Himari grinned and leaned in to peek at my face. Damn it. Maybe keeping that three-meter distance would’ve been better.

“It’s not growing.”

“Liar~. You’re totally head over heels for Enocchi.” “Head over heels……”

Are you from the Showa era? Even the old guys hanging out at izakayas don’t say stuff like that anymore.

Himari covered her mouth and poked me with her elbow, giggling.

“Being called Yuu-kun and all~. Don’t get too lovey-dovey in front of me, okay~?”

“I’m not being lovey-dovey.”

“Oh, or was I in the way~? Hehe~. Should I leave you two alone after school today~? Huh, what do you think?”

“What are you planning to take in return?”

“You don’t trust me~? I’m just wishing for my dear friend’s happiness~.”

“Ugh. You’re so suspicious……”

If I let my guard down, she’ll probably take everything I own. I sighed.

“Besides, it’s not like we’re dating or anything.” “Huh!? Why not!?”

“W-why not……?”

“Because she confessed to you on Saturday, didn’t she!?” “Bwuh!?”

What the hell is she shouting in the hallway for?

The surrounding students’ eyes all turned toward us. “Himari, come here!”

“W-whoa! Yuu, you’re gonna trip!”

I grabbed Himari’s bag and dragged her to a more secluded area. With her back against the wall, I explained the situation.

“Don’t get the wrong idea. It’s not like she confessed to me or anything.”

“Eh……? But didn’t she declare her first love at the flower shop?”

“Ah! You were eavesdropping on us after all!?”

Himari quickly looked away, whistling innocently and trying to escape sideways. I blocked her path with both arms.

“Don’t run.” “Ugh……”

With no escape route, Himari stopped moving, resigned.

My head’s seriously hurting……

“No wonder you left without saying anything. You were being weirdly considerate. Now that I think about it……ever since we fixed Enomoto-san’s accessory, you’ve been acting strange. You keep bringing her up and trying to do weird stuff……”

Himari flinched at my words. “W-weird stuff……?”

“Like when you suggested we try kissing, right? That was……”

Himari’s reaction was off.

She curled up between my arms, her face turning red as if steam was about to come out. She raised her thin arms to cover her face, trembling as if trying to escape my gaze.

“……Huh?”

What’s with this reaction?

Why are her ears turning red? Is this a pizza commercial? Is her ear covered in crispy dough and loaded with cheese?

Actually, you’re the one eating it.

“What’s going on? You’re throwing me off……” “I-it’s because you’re saying weird stuff……”

“I’m not saying anything weird! I’m just repeating what you said!”

“That’s what’s weird!”

“You’re the one who said it in the first place!?” This is seriously defamation.

If this were a court case, I’d win hands down and get a free fries and soda coupon as a bonus…… I said I’m done with pizza!

“Anyway, there’s nothing going on with Enomoto-san. Sure, I was surprised to find out she’s that girl from back then. But we haven’t talked about it beyond that. For her, it’s probably just a fond memory, right?”

Why do I have to explain myself to Himari like I’m justifying some affair? If someone sees us here and spreads rumors, what am I supposed to do?

“Besides, she’s my first love, but it’s not the same for Enomoto- san. If anything, it’s more troublesome if people start

misunderstanding. So, Himari, can you stop poking at it?” “  ”

Himari pulled out a Yoghurppe from her bag. She sipped it while staring intently at me.

W-what’s this? I can tell she’s assessing me. Her expression turned completely cool, a stark contrast from earlier.

She finished the drink with a peko sound, neatly folded the carton, and put it back in her bag. She hiccuped from drinking it all in one go.

Then, she started scrutinizing my face again. “Hmm……?”

“W-what? Are you feeling emotionally unstable today or something?”

“Not at all. Yuu, are you actually an idiot?”

“Why!? This whole conversation is your fault……”

Himari pulled out another Yoghurppe. She stuck the straw in my mouth like usual, and while I was distracted, she slipped out of my grasp.

“Yuu. Drink that and cool down, then come to class, okay~?” “Ah!? Did you even understand what I said!?”

She waved her hand flippantly and walked away without looking back.

Left behind, I sipped the Yoghurppe. “What’s up with her……?”

She’s clearly acting strange.

Teasing me is normal for her, but her reaction earlier was……no, I’m not gonna think about it.

The carton made a zugo sound as I finished it. Cool-down complete. Lactic acid bacteria really are the best.

“I’m already sleepy, and now I’m exhausted from the morning……”

That was seriously uncalled for.

……I can’t believe I thought Himari was kinda cute for a moment.

♣♣♣

After school, we were in the science room working on a prototype for a new accessory.

I laid out the flowers we had prepared on Sunday in front of Himari and Enomoto-san. The shadow of a tulip was visible in the solution.

The tulip had been soaked overnight in a mixture of ethanol and other ingredients. I carefully took it out of the sealed container.

Enomoto-san’s eyes widened as she saw it. “Wow, it’s white……”

The colorful tulip had completely lost its pigment. As I arranged it on the equipment, I explained.

“Flowers wither due to a component in their pigment. So, we extract it using an ethanol solution. This also removes the pigment, which is why it turns completely white.”

“Then, how do you add color?” “We’ll dye it next.”

“So, you remove the color first, then add it back?”

“Yeah, it might seem like extra work, but if we don’t do this, the flower accessory will wither quickly.”

Preserved flowers are essentially flowers put in a state of suspended animation to last longer. If we skip this step, no matter how beautifully we color it, it won’t matter.

The tulips on the equipment had to be handled carefully. The components removed by the ethanol also help maintain the flower’s freshness. Without them, the flowers become very fragile.

I mixed ink into a glycerin solution for moisturizing and coloring. Once the process was complete, I inserted the flower stems and waited for them to absorb the ink on their own……

“Himari. Stop pushing me from behind, okay?”

I turned around with a smile, and Himari grinned back.

It felt like she was saying, “Do you think cute little me is so obsessed with Yuu that I can’t help but cling to you? How self- absorbed and gross.” Sure, she’s cute, but what’s with her trying to sneak up behind me while waving her hands around!?

“Enomoto-san. Let’s begin.” “……Got it.”

Enomoto-san immediately grabbed Himari by the back of her neck.

“Hii-chan. Don’t get in the way.”

“Eek! Yuu, relying on Enocchi is cheating!” No, it’s not cheating!

While Enomoto-san held Himari back, I quickly set up the equipment. I dipped the cut ends of the tulip stems into several warm-colored glycerin solutions.

“By this time tomorrow, they should be fully colored.” “It’s quite a time-consuming process, huh……”

Enomoto-san muttered, impressed.

Actually, flower processing takes a lot of time. This is just a

prototype, so we’ve skipped a lot of steps. The actual products we ship go through much more detailed processes.

“Well, it takes even longer because Himari always messes around……”

I glared at Himari, who had been causing trouble earlier.

Himari, blocked by Enomoto-san, stretched out on the table. She sighed and sipped her Yoghurppe.

“Sigh. Yuu’s changed so much~. Back then, he used to say, ‘When I turn 30, I’ll marry Himari-neechan!’ It was so cute……”

“When did you become my older sister?”

“Back when it was just the two of us, you were so affectionate……”

“Hey, can you stop saying stuff like that seriously? Enomoto- san’s here, you know?”

“Hmm……?”

Himari’s carton made a zuzu sound as she drank. She glanced at Enomoto-san, who tilted her head in confusion.

Himari’s mouth twisted into a sly grin. ……I have a bad feeling about this.

“If Enocchi weren’t here, would you play pretend kiss with me like last week?”

My blood ran cold.

I grabbed her collar without thinking. “What the hell are you saying!?” Himari burst out laughing.

“Eh~? But you said it wasn’t weird, right~?”

“Don’t twist my words! I said it was weird that you suggested we try kissing……”

“Ah, so you admit it? You admitted that we played pretend kiss last week!”

“Don’t pick up on that part!!” I froze.

A cold, sharp gaze pierced my back. I slowly turned around to see Enomoto-san glaring at me.

Her expression was blank.

Her unreadable eyes stared straight at me. As I stood there gaping like a fish out of water, she slowly stood up.

She slung her bag over her shoulder and brushed her hair behind her ear.

“I-I have club activities. I-I gotta go. ……Bye.”

“Enomoto-san!? Why are you talking so stiffly……wah!?”

The science room door slammed shut. The sound of her slippers clattering against the floor faded into the distance.

Ah, she’s gone……

Should I explain? No, why should I? It’s not like she caught me cheating or anything. We’re not even in that kind of relationship. So why is she mad? Oh, it’s because Himari was messing around……ah.

“Hey, Himari!!”

“Pfft──ha!! Yuu, you’re so funny!”

Himari was lying on the large six-person table, laughing hysterically. Her legs flailed, and her slipper flew off, hitting a steel shelf.

“You’re definitely getting back at me for this morning!” “Yep, so what?”

“Don’t act so smug!”

“Ahaha. But I didn’t expect it to go this well~. This might be my greatest masterpiece yet. Ah, I should’ve recorded it……”

Like hell I’d let her!

If this got out, I’d never be able to face Enomoto-san again…… Wait, Himari’s clutching her stomach, shaking from laughter.

“Himari, how long are you gonna keep laughing?”

“I can’t help it. It’s too funny. My stomach hurts……” “How much? Hey, how much?”

“This is gonna last a while. Yuu, help me up. Ah, I can’t……” “……Seriously.”

I grabbed her arm to pull her up from the table. Then, I froze.

Himari, lying on her back on the table, was holding my arm. Her well-shaped lips parted, and a warm breath escaped, carrying a different atmosphere than before.

Himari’s breathing was uneven, and her fair skin was tinged with red. Her slightly open uniform collar revealed a gentle but

definite swell……and the delicate lace fabric covering it. “Wanna do it?”

“Eh, eh……?”

I couldn’t help but stare at Himari’s face.

Her large, almond-shaped eyes were a beautiful marine blue, like gemstones. They were slightly moist, probably from laughing so much.

Himari blew a soft breath. My bangs fluttered slightly. I caught a sweet scent from the Yoghurppe she had been drinking.

“Enocchi probably thinks we’ve already done it, right? So, wouldn’t it be better to just go ahead?”

“B-better? That’s not the issue……”

“Why not? We’re gonna do it when we’re 30 anyway, right? Or are you just gonna use me as a cover for an arranged marriage? Is that what you want?”

“T-that was just a joke……”

“Is that what you really think? ……You don’t even joke about that kind of thing with anyone else.”

“Eh……”

Himari gently closed her eyes.

She was completely defenseless. It felt like she was leaving all the decisions to me. Then, as if delivering the final blow, she whispered in a barely audible voice.

“You’re making a ‘love’ accessory, right? Wanna use me as practice?”

“……!?”

Her grip on my arm tightened.

Unable to shake her off, I leaned in closer.

……Wait, what am I doing? Why am I lowering myself like I’m about to…… No, this looks like I’m really going to do it.

It’s not like I’m dating Enomoto-san, so it’s not a problem, but……

No one will notice. This room is just the two of us. This part of the school building is pretty empty at this time. If I really wanted

to, I could…… What am I even thinking? But, she’s Himari, right?

We’re best friends, aren’t we?

We’ve always been like this, haven’t we? Using each other for experience points like this…… That’s not being best friends, that’s being friends with benefits.

I don’t think of Himari as just some casual…… Ah, crap! She’s so cute! Why is her face so perfect!? Of course she’s popular! In fact, why have I been treating her like just another guy friend until now……

──Vrrrt, a vibration sound echoed.

Probably a phone. Maybe a LINE notification or something.

That’s fine. Our school allows phones, and in this quiet science room, the sound would naturally stand out.

The problem was that the sound came from between Himari and the table.

Himari’s left hand…… Unlike her right hand, which was holding my arm, her left hand was hidden under her skirt. ……Wait, she’s been twitching her cheek like she’s saying “Oops.”

“Hey, Himari. Open your eyes.” “Hmm~? What’s up~?”

“Show me your left hand.”

“W-what, are you gonna pin my hands down so I can’t move~? Yuu, I didn’t know you were into that~. You’re such a sadist~.”

Himari smiled sweetly.

……In that moment, the heated atmosphere from earlier vanished.

“Gotcha!”

“Ah!?”

I grabbed her left hand.

She was holding her phone. The camera was on, clearly recording my dumbfounded face. A scream echoed through the science room for the umpteenth time that day.

“Himari!!”

“Pfft──ha!!” What the hell!?

Were you seriously trying to record this!?

“Himari, what are you trying to do!? Are you trying to blackmail me!?”

“Nah~. Teasing Enocchi is more fun than I thought~. Yuu’s so simple, you give me plenty of good material~.”

“Forget about me, stop messing with Enomoto-san!”

“Yuu’s so soft on Enocchi~. Guess guys really can’t forget their first love, huh?”

“Shut up! I don’t wanna hear that from a girl who goes with the flow!”

I grabbed Himari’s arm and pulled her up from the table.

Himari was fanning her collar, saying, “Ah~, Yuu’s the best……” I noticed her slipper was missing. Looking around, I saw it had fallen near the shelf.

“Hop, hop.”

Himari hopped on one foot to retrieve her slipper.

My heart was still racing as I cleaned up the equipment scattered on the table. I placed the tulips, now in the coloring process, on the steel shelf. I secured them firmly with equipment so they

wouldn’t shake if there was an earthquake or if a student bumped into them.

“……You said it was fine, so just do it already. Idiot.” I almost dropped the equipment in shock.

I turned around, but Himari was just playing with her fallen slipper. She wasn’t even looking at me.

“……Himari, did you say something?” “What~?”

“N-no, just now, you……”

“Hmm~? Yuu, are you so obsessed with Enocchi that you’re hearing things?”

She smiled sweetly.

There was a strange pressure in her smile, and I stumbled over my words. Well, it might’ve been my imagination. If it wasn’t……

“Coward. No guts. Flower idiot.”

“Himari, you were definitely bad-mouthing me, weren’t you!?” “Eek! A guy’s hysterics are so gross~.”

She hugged her bag and quickly left the science room. “Hey, how are you getting home!?”

“I’m taking the bus today~.”

She waved her hand and disappeared toward the shoe lockers. Left alone, I slumped onto the table and buried my head in my hands.

……What does she even want?

♣♣♣

A few days later. It was Friday lunch break.

I was alone in the courtyard behind the bicycle parking lot. There’s a flowerbed here where Himari and I grow flowers. Sitting on a bag of fertilizer stacked by the storage shed, I hung my head.

The convenience store bread I brought from home was dry. Well, it’s expired, so it’s to be expected.

I sipped the Yoghurppe I bought from the vending machine.

……Being alone is wonderful. Right now, I’m undoubtedly a dandy.

But that dandy-like silence was soon broken.

“Na-ha-ha! Natsu, I hear you’ve been quite popular lately, huh?” “……Makishima.”

A flashy pretty boy showed up, accompanied by a junior girl.

……The junior girl whispered, “This guy’s Natsu?” “Ah, that one?” ……Hey, don’t talk about me behind my back. And then the junior girl cheered me on, saying, “Senpai, I’m rooting for you!” I don’t get it, but she seems like a nice kid……

Makishima waved goodbye to the girl and casually walked over to me.

“Is she okay?”

“Yeah, no problem. She’s just a playmate.” “Ah, I see……”

He’s so flashy.

Makishima was holding a yakisoba bread and a croquette bread in each hand. He must’ve bought lunch and was on his way back to his flirting spot.

As he unwrapped the yakisoba bread, he asked, “What are you doing in this dreary place?”

“Just wanted to be alone for a bit……”

“Shouldn’t you be flirting with Rin-chan and the others?”

“It’s Himari and Enomoto-san who are flirting. Lately, those two have been causing such a ruckus that I can’t focus on work……”

“A ruckus?”

“Himari keeps provoking Enomoto-san, and Enomoto-san takes the bait, and when I try to stop them, I get dragged into it. ……I wish they’d do it somewhere else.”

Makishima choked on his bread.

He hurriedly swallowed and burst out laughing. “Rin-chan basically dislikes Himari-chan, after all.” “Eh? Aren’t they childhood friends?”

“Hmm~. It’s not exactly dislike. More like her cuteness makes her a hundred times more annoying. ……Ah, that’s right. Himari- chan reminds Rin-chan of her older sister.”

“Enomoto-san’s older sister? The model?”

That’s the person who helped me out in middle school.

I heard from Himari that she’s now in Tokyo, fully focused on her modeling career.

“Well, that older sister was quite wild too. Rin-chan’s been cleaning up after her all her life. That’s why she dislikes free

spirits like Himari-chan but can’t leave them alone. You feel the same way, right, Natsu?”

“Ah…… I guess I can see that.”

“From my perspective, they seem pretty close. That’s just their way of playing around. Himari-chan gets punished at the right moment, so just ignore it.”

What an adult opinion.

……Well, Makishima’s pretty sharp. The reason he can juggle multiple girls without getting stabbed is because he’s good at reading the room. ……What a waste of talent.

As I sipped my Yoghurppe, Makishima flashed a full smile and said,

“By the way, how far have you gone with Rin-chan?” “Bwuh!?”

I almost spat out my drink, and Makishima laughed gleefully.

……This guy’s definitely doing it on purpose.

“Don’t tell me you’re still hesitating. She confessed to you, right?”

“Cough!? ……Confessed, you think?” I played dumb, and Makishima scoffed.

“I see. Natsu’s definitely that type of virgin.”

“Shut up. Being a virgin has nothing to do with it.”

I’m not denying it……but I’m not denying it! But my pride’s hurt, okay? It’s a tough age.

“Enomoto-san hasn’t exactly given me a clear confession……”

“Are you seriously saying that after seeing how she acts? It’s like a 10-tiered luxury bento box made by a prestigious Tokyo restaurant, complete with dessert cookies, just waiting for you to dig in.”

“Your way of putting it…… How can you talk about your childhood friend like that……”

I’m seriously put off.

……Well, Himari’s not much better. She loves dirty jokes too.

“I get what you’re saying, Makishima, but I’m not hung up on my first love from elementary school……”

“But Rin-chan’s acting like a heroine straight out of a romance manga. Even I can’t help but root for such pure love.”

“……Even though she’s such a mature beauty.”

“Exactly. Rin-chan’s pure personality is 100% a disadvantage.” He unwrapped his croquette bread and stared at me.

“She finally meets her Prince Charming, and it’s this loser……” “You’re really pissing me off.”

“But apparently, Rin-chan likes this loser. My childhood friend has the worst taste in men.”

“Shut up! Are you dissing me or Enomoto-san!?”

Makishima finished his croquette bread and stood up, patting my shoulder. ……This guy eats way too fast.

He waved dramatically and turned his back to me.

“If you don’t dislike Rin-chan, just get together already. Otherwise, my plan to make you Rin-chan’s husband and my brother-in-law will never get off the ground.”

“Hibari-san aside, you and Enomoto-san are just childhood friends, right……”

Why do all the guys around me want to make me their brother-in- law? What kind of fetish is driving this? I’m seriously scared.

“Don’t do anything unnecessary. ……I’m already dealing with Himari acting weird lately.”

Makishima flinched.

He turned around sharply and asked with a serious expression, “How is she acting weird?”

“W-what? Did I say something concerning?” “Just answer quickly.”

“……It feels like she’s closer than before. I mean, she’s always clingy, but now it feels like she’s forcing it……”

“Himari-chan is……?”

He stroked his chin, deep in thought.

……This guy would be a total heartthrob if he always looked this serious. As I was thinking that, Makishima suddenly grinned.

“……Interesting. I’ll keep an eye out and poke around a bit.” “Huh?”

Those were ominous words.

“Don’t do anything unnecessary!”

“Na-ha-ha. It’s for your own good. Be grateful.” “Like hell I will!”

……He left.

What’s he planning?

♣♣♣

That afternoon after school.

Himari, Enomoto-san, and I were in the science room holding a photoshoot for the prototype.

“These are the tulips that have been colored and left to dry for about two days.”

I respectfully arranged them on the table.

The warm color gradient was hard to describe in a single word. Roughly, it was red, yellow, and pink. Some had deep, muted tones, while others had light, refreshing hues.

As she looked at them, Enomoto-san murmured, “They look like real flowers……”

“Well, they are real flowers.”

When I gave a wry smile, Enomoto-san’s cheeks turned crimson. Then, she looked at me with a reproachful gaze.

“Yuu-kun. You’re being mean……” “S-sorry.”

I reflexively teased her, as if I were talking to Himari.

As we were caught in an awkward atmosphere, Himari, who was leaning on her hand behind me, poked my back with her finger.

“Hmm?”

“W-what is it?”

“You two seem to be getting pretty cozy, huh?” “What do you mean by ‘getting cozy’……?”

I wasn’t trying to be cozy or anything.

Ah, look. Enomoto-san’s face is completely red now. Don’t keep interrupting like that.

“Anyway. Today, I want to use these to decide on the design for the accessory.”

“The design?”

“Since we started with tulips as the theme this time, we haven’t decided on the type of accessory yet. This is also Enomoto-san’s first time modeling, so I’d appreciate your help……”

“What does that mean, specifically?”

“We’ll take a lot of photos using these prototype tulips. We’ll figure out which part of Enomoto-san’s body the flowers look

best on, or what kind of composition would appeal to users……”

When I mentioned taking photos, Enomoto-san flinched and hesitated.

Well, that’s understandable. Taking selfies is different from being photographed by a classmate. Enomoto-san doesn’t seem like the type who’s comfortable exposing herself.

Himari, seeing this, stepped in to help.

“Enocchi. If you’re going to be an Instagram model, you’ll have to get used to being photographed, you know?”

“But it’s nerve-wracking when it actually happens……” “Hmm? I see. Well, I guess there’s no helping it then.” Himari stood up and picked up one of the tulips.

She placed it near her shoulder and struck a natural pose for the camera. Thanks to her experience, she instantly came up with the perfect composition.

“If Enocchi can’t do it, I’ll be the model again this time~.”

“……!?”

Enomoto-san reacted with a start.

Himari grinned at her reaction and playfully kissed the tulip.

“Yuu’s first ‘love’-themed flower accessory, huh? I bet it’ll be super cute and passionate. After all, this is Yuu expressing his feelings for the model. The person who models for this accessory must be really special to Yuu, right~?”

“～～～～!?”

Enomoto-san stood up abruptly.

She pulled out a makeup pouch from her bag and glared at Himari.

“I-I’ll do it! I’ll do it, so Hii-chan, just stay quiet!”

Enomoto-san left the science room, saying, “I’ll just fix my makeup!”

“Uh, well. It’s just a prototype, so you don’t have to go all out…… Ah, she’s gone.”

Himari, on the other hand, waved her off with a grin. “Ahaha. Enocchi’s so cute~.”

“Himari. Don’t provoke her too much……”

“If I didn’t, she might’ve backed out, you know?” “Then you could’ve just done it, right?”

“Heeeh……?”

She narrowed her eyes.

She leaned closer to me and placed her hand on my shoulder. With a testing expression, she whispered in my ear.

“This time, the theme is ‘love,’ right?”

“Y-yeah. That’s why I chose tulips, so we can just do it like we always do, right?”

“Is that really enough?” “Isn’t it?”

“We’ve worked with flowers that symbolize love before, haven’t we? But that wasn’t enough, was it? What Yuu wants is

something that resonates more with users…… something that makes everyone who sees it fall in love, right? Something special.”

“……You’re right.”

What Himari said was correct.

But if it were that easy, I wouldn’t be struggling.

“Yuu, I really love your passion for flower accessories. That’s why I asked Enocchi to be the model, you know? Even if it’s from elementary school, love is still love. Yuu’s one and only first love. The only one who can capture that in an Instagram frame is Enocchi.”

Himari smiled at me from close range. “Or…… do you think you could fall for me?” “……!”

Her hand gripped mine. Pulled by her, my body leaned closer to Himari. Crap, I thought. The moment my body touched Himari without any resistance──

The science room door opened.

Enomoto-san stood there, her eyes wide. Her calm expression flickered with a mix of emotions.

She tried to say something, her mouth moving.

But only a faint breath escaped. She had seen it. There was no way to explain. Enomoto-san’s left leg took a step back.

──Click, the camera shutter sounded.

Himari held up her phone, showing the screen with Enomoto- san’s shocked expression.

“Title: ‘Innocence and Scummy Cheating.’ Wouldn’t this look emotional with a tulip added?”

“It’s not emotional at all!?” It was rejected.

After all, this time we’re using warm-colored tulips. Even if it’s about love, it’s not the flower language of heartbreak.

Enomoto-san sighed at our exchange. She placed a hand on her chest and spoke in a dazed tone.

“I-I was so surprised……”

“S-sorry. Really, sorry. I was pretty shocked too……” I glared at Himari.

“Himari. You’ve been really into sneaky photos lately……” “Hehe. It’s so much fun♡”

What a terrible hobby……

Even if I told her to stop, she wouldn’t listen. There’s nothing I can do about it.

“Well then, let’s get started. Enomoto-san, are you ready?” “Y-yeah. I’m fine.”

We finally got to the main event of the day.

Enomoto-san had a band rehearsal scheduled, so we had to finish within 30 minutes.

We’d use a digital camera for the actual shoot, but a smartphone was enough for now.

Since I’m used to Himari modeling, I knew the steps. Things went smoothly. I gave Enomoto-san pose instructions while adding tulips to the composition.

The key here is quantity and inspiration. Don’t get stuck on one

composition. Take as many photos as possible. We’ll sort through them later.

Adjusting settings on my phone, I quickly captured each shot. “Enomoto-san. Raise your right hand.”

“L-like this?”

“It looks a bit like a salute. Try to imagine the sunlight……” “……It’s hard.”

Despite her words, she caught on quickly.

Now, if only her expression could look more natural…… Wait, Himari’s been poking my back this whole time. It’s annoying.

“Himari, what is it?”

“I’m bored. Just like Himari-chan~.” “Stay quiet. This is important.” “Okay……”

I returned to the shoot.

15 minutes left. I wanted to push through. I’d already taken all the compositions I had in mind. Now, I needed stronger

inspiration…… Ugh, Himari’s poking me again! “Himari, what is it this time?”

Himari gave a thumbs-up. “Let’s take a spicy one next!”

“Absolutely not. Seriously, stay quiet……” She pouted.

“You totally want to take one, though.” “I don’t!?”

“You’re just adding it to your secret spicy collection under the guise of an Instagram shoot, aren’t you?”

“I’m seriously going to kick you out!?” Enomoto-san quietly stepped back.

Her eyes were filled with suspicion.

“Yuu-kun…… have you and Hii-chan been……?”

“No, no, no! Enomoto-san, don’t take Himari’s words seriously……”

This photoshoot is completely wholesome. That was just Himari’s bad joke!

……Makishima’s weird comments made me sound more defensive than necessary.

“I think we’ve taken enough photos……”

But none of them felt right. They all felt familiar. Honestly, they felt too much like Himari. It’s what Saku-neesan calls ‘stagnation in a miniature garden.’

Of course. All the compositions so far were just traced from the ones I’d taken with Himari. To put it bluntly, they didn’t need Enomoto-san at all.

So, what is ‘Enomoto-san’s essence’?

What’s the difference between Enomoto-san and Himari? Hair length? Eye color? Height? Or…… chest size……?

No, that’s not it. Those are just universal, objective differences. In other words, just data. What represents Enomoto-san’s individuality? Her sweets? The occasional intimidating aura? Her cool exterior hiding her shyness?

……The Queen of the Night.

That suddenly came to mind. The flower accessory on her left wrist.

To me, that’s everything about Enomoto-san. A white flower that blooms for just a few hours at midnight. A flower you’d stay up all night to see, just for that fleeting moment.

How do I capture that in a photo?

It’s not enough for just me to understand. I have to convey it to the model. How? Well, I guess I’ll have to explain it in words……

“Enomoto-san. I want to capture the Queen of the Night.” “The Queen of the Night?”

Enomoto-san showed me the accessory on her left wrist.

……Yeah, of course.

“No, I mean, I want to capture you in a way that resembles the Queen of the Night…… Ah, no, it’s not about the pose……”

“……? ……??”

Enomoto-san was completely confused. “What is this guy talking about?” Yeah, I get it. Honestly, it’s amazing that Enomoto-san even tried to strike a Queen of the Night-like pose right away.

“No, forget that. ……We’re out of time. I’ll think about it over the weekend. If it’s okay, let’s do another photoshoot on Monday……”

I was planning to start working seriously this weekend, but oh well. The actual Instagram shoot is on the first day of Golden Week, so there’s not much time……

As I was calculating the schedule in my head, Himari suddenly spoke.

“……It’s kinda frustrating when things aren’t clear, huh~?” Huh?

Enomoto-san and I turned around at the same time. Himari was smiling brightly, as if her earlier outburst had been a joke.

“Yuu. Keep holding the phone and stay still.” “O-okay.”

Himari walked over to Enomoto-san and whispered something in her ear.

That was the moment.

Enomoto-san’s eyes widened. She turned to look at me. “────!!”

My finger moved instinctively. I tapped the shutter button. Click, the shutter sound echoed, capturing that moment.

It was truly a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment. Silence fell. None of us moved. And no one said anything.

I stared at the photo in a daze.

Miraculously, it wasn’t blurry. It looked like a still from a movie. How should I describe that expression?

It wasn’t the expression of love.

If I had to say, it was a desperate expression.

Her eyes were wide open, as if clinging to something.

You could see the hope of chasing after something, almost within reach.

But her lips, as if denying that hope, were bitten nervously. It was a complex mix of emotions.

But it definitely felt like the ‘Queen of the Night.’

The flower language of the Queen of the Night is ‘gorgeous beauty,’ ‘fleeting love’──‘I just want to see you once.’

When faced with a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, perhaps this is the expression people make. Or maybe, on the one night of the year when Orihime and Hikoboshi are allowed to meet, they look at each other like this.

It was perfect.

This was definitely ‘love.’

“This is amazing. Enomoto-san, this is…… incredible, right?” I furrowed my brows.

Enomoto-san, who had just shown off her actress-level acting, was now looking at me with a tearful expression.

What’s wrong? Is she unhappy with my reaction? Well, it can’t be helped. When people are truly overwhelmed, their vocabulary shrinks.

“Enomoto-san, is something wrong?”

“B-because, Yuu-kun. Y-you and Hii-chan……” Me and Himari?

I turned to look at Himari. For some reason, she was giving Enomoto-san a cold stare. When she noticed me looking, she immediately shrugged and laughed it off.

Then, Himari patted Enomoto-san’s shoulder. “Enocchi. It was just a joke~♪”

“…………”

Enomoto-san stared at her smiling face.

For a moment, a flood of emotions passed through her. When it subsided, Enomoto-san’s temple twitched.

Then, she let out a scream that shook the science room. “Eeeeeeeeh!?”

“Ahaha. Enocchi, you’re so honest~.”

Realizing she’d been teased, Enomoto-san grabbed a chair. “Hii-chan! I really hate you!!”

“Wah!? Enocchi, that’s something girls shouldn’t do!”

“It’s your fault, Hii-chan! I’m paying you back for everything!!”

“But thanks to that, Yuu seems really satisfied, so it’s fine, right?”

Enomoto-san froze.

She slowly lowered the chair. Then, she looked at me anxiously.

“Yuu-kun. The photo……?”

“It’s perfect. You look absolutely adorable. Let’s use this for the actual shoot.”

I gave her a thumbs-up.

My response was a bit exaggerated since Himari’s life was on the line, but I meant every word. There’s no better model for ‘love’ than this.

Enomoto-san’s cheeks softened like mochi in soup. “R-really……? Ehehe.”

Wow, she’s so easy.

Is it okay for someone so beautiful to be this easy? Won’t she get tricked by some shady guy in the future? Not that it’s my place to worry, but I’m seriously concerned now.

Enomoto-san suddenly checked the time.

“Ah, the band rehearsal’s starting! I have to go!” “Ah, thanks.”

Enomoto-san grabbed her bag and waved as she left the science room.

After seeing her off, Himari came over. “Show me the photo.”

I showed her my phone, and she nodded in satisfaction. “Hehe. Enocchi’s so cute~.”

“Honestly, it’s dangerous.”

I kind of want to edit this with the flower accessory and post it.

But that’s against the rules…… And honestly, I don’t want to show it to anyone else.

I couldn’t help but feel a sense of possessiveness over this photo. “Himari. What did you say to her?”

“Hmm. It’s a secret♡”

It was definitely something outrageous.

As I looked at Himari’s dazzling smile, I couldn’t help but think that.

“All that’s left is to finish the flower accessory and visit Enocchi’s house~.”

“Yeah. Thanks to you, Himari.”

“That’s right~. Yuu should appreciate me more.” Honestly, I’m always relying on Himari.

……Though, she also causes a lot of trouble. “Have you decided on the accessory?”

“A hairpin.”

“Heeh. That was quick.”

“With this photo, a close-up of her expression would work best. It’s between earrings or a hairpin, but Enomoto-san’s hair is so beautiful, so the hairpin would be better.”

“Then, a red tulip would be good~. It suits Enocchi too.” A red tulip.

Its flower language is ‘declaration of love.’

The flower language varies by color, but red definitely suits this expression.

Starting tomorrow, I’ll begin working in earnest.

I’ll order the tulips for the actual shoot, prepare the equipment, and make the accessories for sale. As I was getting ready, Himari spoke up.

“Hey, Yuu.”

“Hmm?”

“Make one for me too.” “What do you mean?”

I turned around.

Himari was staring at me intently. She twirled a strand of hair near her ear.

“A ‘love’ flower accessory. One for me.” “For you?”

“Yeah. For when I fall in love someday…… Is that no good?” “    ”

Her words made me avert my gaze. The twinflower choker around Himari’s neck seemed to glimmer faintly.

It was a failed piece with air bubbles in the resin.

It wasn’t something that could be sold as a product.

Yet, Himari had taken care of it and still wore it to this day.

……Inside this choker is the air from two years ago when we first met.

The trembling friendship with Himari, the dreams we shared,

and──the promise to cherish this best friend for life. All of that was sealed inside.

To me, it’s the most precious thing in the world.

Unbreakable, irreplaceable, and invaluable. The thought of losing it is unbearable.

That’s why I answered like this.

“……That’s impossible. You’re my best friend, after all.”

For a moment, there was a cold silence. But in the blink of an eye, Himari relaxed.

“Yeah, I figured~.”

“By the way, aren’t you going to help?”

“Ugh. The wounds from Enocchi’s attack still hurt……”

“That’s such a lame excuse. You don’t have a single scratch, you know.”

……I couldn’t say it.

For a moment, I wanted to take a photo of Himari, who had said she wanted a ‘love’ accessory.

Do you realize it? Even though you’re pretending to joke like always, your cheeks are a vivid crimson.

You’re pulling at your short hair, unconsciously trying to hide your red cheeks. Your beautiful marine blue eyes are glistening as you look at me with expectation.

Regardless of the accessory, I just wanted to keep that expression all to myself.

I couldn’t say it. There’s no way I could.

Because those aren’t feelings you have for a best friend.

Wanting to keep someone all to yourself──that’s not friendship, it’s something else entirely.

There’s no love between me and Himari.──That’s the promise we made back in our second year of middle school.

Lately, my best friend has been so cute…… It’s a little troubling.

♢♢♢

“……That’s impossible. You’re my best friend, after all.” That’s what Yuu said.

His attitude was cold. He didn’t even look at me. He was busy tidying up some equipment. I wanted him to look at me instead.

But Yuu was looking at the tulip prototype.

The one Enocchi had been wearing earlier. It still carried her warmth, the scent of first love.

I thought──

Ah, I got rejected.──Just kidding. It was supposed to be a joke.

I wanted him to say something like, “It wouldn’t suit you,” so I could retort, “I don’t want to hear that from you.”

“Yeah, I figured.”

Those words slipped out. Yeah, I figured.

I’m your best friend, after all.

This past week. Yuu never tried to cross that line, did he?

……But I stopped thinking of us as just friends a long time ago.

That incident at the flower shop was the problem. I saw Yuu’s expression of love.

He’s never looked at me like that before. For some reason, it hurt to realize there’s a side of Yuu I don’t know.

I thought Yuu was mine, but that’s not the case. I was confronted with the fact that thinking I knew everything about Yuu was just arrogance.

I wanted to see that expression up close.

I wanted him to look at me with that serious gaze.

I realized it’s not Yuu’s expression when making flower accessories that I love. It’s those passionate, burning marble-like eyes that I want to see me.

That’s why I became the model for Yuu’s accessories. If I wore his accessories first, he’d look at me with those passionate eyes.

But those eyes weren’t directed at me.

The friendship we built, the relationship we have, is now getting in the way of moving forward.

That’s the most unbearable part.

But it’s also something I can’t let go of.

It’s everything from our two years together. The fun, the pain, it’s all packed into a bag-like thing.

But to move forward, I’d have to throw it away.

Not being able to throw it away was my downfall. This past week, I always made sure to have an escape route. If I failed, I could always go back to being best friends.

That’s why I lost.

It’s more accurate to say I never intended to win.

I’m not the type of person who can go all-in on a gamble I might lose.

I’m sure I’ll never change. The poison of this loser mentality lodged in my chest will slowly kill my future.

That’s why I have to handle this carefully.

If I can’t gain anything more, at least I won’t lose anything more. I’ll make sure no one takes away this bag of friendship between us.

To remain Yuu’s best friend, all I have to do is endure a little.

……I realized that this was already the mindset of a loser a week after this prototype photoshoot.