Gamers!

Translator: your_pingas

Winter is an incredibly blessed season for high school gamers in the north.

After all, the Christmas sale provided many games, and you get New Year’s money to buy them. Aside from that, you can play for all you want during the winter holidays.

Moreover, the winter holidays in the north are 10 days longer than usual.

What else can you call this other than a High School Gamer’s Golden Season?

This is the only reason lonely gamers like us can tolerate our miserable school life.

So, right now, I would like to announce something.

Of course, a lonely gamer must stay in his room like a hibernating bear during the winter holidays. It’s a must, and there’s a reason-

“Onii-san, it’s almost time for us to go. The other relatives already arrived at Shin-san’s place.”

-My little brother Kousei knocked from the outside as if he’s trying to ruin my inner monologue. I hugged my legs on the chair as I answered him, who’s still in the corridor.

“…Y-You can just help me get my New Year’s money back, Kousei.”

“Save that douche sentence for later. Come out, onii-san. What’s wrong with you?”

“…I’m throwing a tantrum.”

“Isn’t that what you’re like usually? By the way, you always went to our relatives’ New Year parties cheerfully. Why are you throwing a tantrum now?”

Kousei asked from outside the door. …The older brother in high school year 2 is being persuaded by his little brother in middle school year 3. This fact is so miserable that I’m about to cry.

Even so, I want to struggle a bit more. I wiped the small stains on the table with my fingers meaninglessly as I answered.

“…We’re going to the shrine in front of Shin-san’s house to pray, right?”

“Hmm? Yeah, it’s right next to his house. We visit that every year, right?”

“That’s true. …However, come to think of it, that shrine is right on the street…”

“Hmm? So?”

I can sense Kousei tilting his head outside the door.

I sighed deeply. …Then, I told him the crux of this problem.

“I feel like there’s a high chance for me to bump into the Hoshinomori sisters or Tendou-san…”

“…What? Uh, well, …eh? So? What’s wrong with that?”

Kousei asked me like he’s thoroughly confused. Sigh, it’s hard to blame him. It’s because…I don’t want to see them due to an incredibly personal reason.

Uh, not wanting to see them, I guess I shouldn’t put it this way.

The correct way to put it would be…I can’t bring myself to face them.

The reason for that is…

(During the Christmas party, …Konoha-san pointed out an incredibly disgusting and insincere fact – I view Chiaki as a girl…)

Also, Chiaki overheard the entire conversation. The situation couldn’t be worse.

(I don’t even remember how did the Christmas party end…)

I bet Chiaki’s the same as well. After that, Chiaki and I weren’t talking to each other appropriately. When 2 out of 6 participants were like this, the other members couldn’t cheer up the mood.

In the end, the party ended on a sad note. …I’m not really sure, though.

Anyway, at least, the silver lining is that only Chiaki, Konoha-san, and I were involved in that incident. Tendou-san, Uehara-kun, and Aguri-san only noticed that something wasn’t right during the latter half.

From this perspective, including the Hoshinomori sisters, no one blamed me for anything.

…Aside from one person.

I’m the one that’s endlessly blaming myself right now.

I hugged my legs tightly as I remained in the chair.

I don’t even want to see Uehara-kun and Aguri-san right now since they are respectable friends. Their relationship is so bright. Of course, not to mention Tendou-san and the Hoshinomori sisters.

After all, that’s like I’m the only one forced to wear undies during a formal and luxurious party.

Right now, I feel like I’m being cared for by friends that I don’t deserve.

However, it’s because that happened.

The nicer they are, the more I feel depressed, and it’s even worse than I was just a loner.

“…………”

I looked at the PC screen. It showed the last town of NOBE’s new RPG. All I need to do is to beat the boss in the final maze at the north not far ahead, and it’s the end. I’m just one step away from winning the game, but…

“…………”

I clicked the controller a couple times. The heroes took a step out of the town. Then, the randomly-encountered enemies immediately showed up. I chose to battle. At the next moment-

< Shining Man used Youth’s Light and burnt everything to the ground! The heroes took 1068 damage on average! The heroes were all dead… >

“…Sigh.”

The game returned to the title screen. I decided to load the save, and the adventure started at the church of the final town again.

“…………”

As if I’m trying to confirm something, I clicked the button and opened the heroes’ status screen.

Then, their stats are still-

< Hero: Lv.1 – Fighter: Lv.1 – Monk: Lv.1 – Mage: Lv.1 >

-What a hopeless situation.

It’s all because of a bug. When you executed a specific action in this town, the protagonists will revert back to their initial state and gears, without any money. I can’t believe I encountered this.

In the end, …since there’s no way for me to teleport to other cities, I can only walk away from the town first. Of course, the last area’s enemies are powerful, and the protagonists can’t defeat them. So, they can’t get any money or experience. They aren’t even allowed to start from scratch.

…In the others, I’m completely stuck.

“…Sigh.”

“Hmm? Onii-san? In the end, why you don’t want to see Chiaki-senpai?”

“…This is precisely the situation I’m in right now.”

“What are you saying?”

Kousei’s unbelievably confused voice can be heard from outside the door. Of course, he can’t see this screen. I think he’s pretty baffled. Although I feel sorry for him, I don’t have the strength to explain the hellish reality to him.

After I fell silent, Kousei spoke up again.

“I’m not sure what’s going on, …but it should be fine, right? Usually, it’s not easy to meet specific people.”

“Usually. But how should I say this? I think a guy like me will have 90% of meeting them.”

“…It’s not that bad, right. …Ugh, …it’s good. …Uh…”

Kousei fell silent when he’s trying to comfort me. …Well, …your brother is fated to encounter something like this even from your perspective. …I thought so.

I continued with an even more determined mind.

“So, I won’t go! I can’t go! I shouldn’t go!”

“It’s not going to work even if you’re saying that like Three Non-nuclear Principles. Let’s go, Onii-san.”

“No, I already said…”

I’m still trying to look for an excuse. So, Kousei mumbled with a slightly lower voice.

“However, no matter what, in the end, our onii-san’s dumb enough to not avoid something like this, right?”

“…I-I’m not…”

I stopped talking. Kousei laughed from the outside and continued.

“I knew it. Onii-san, you already prepared your hair, clothes, and bags.”

“…………”

…I sighed. Then, I turned on the lights in the room with the remote next to my hands. Just like what Kousei said, I already prepared everything. …I hate this aspect of mine.

Even though I know I’m just feeding the enemies once I walked outside the town, and I don’t have any grand strategy. Even so, I still think there’s something I can do. So, I became a dumb hero that prepared for the adventure. That’s me. I even knew I’m just walking straight to game over.

During this time, I can hear Kousei leaving from the outside.

“Well, let’s get going, my blind onii-san.”

I heard this from my little brother.

I hugged my legs tightly…for a whole 10 seconds.

I stood up abruptly from the chair.

In this new year, I finally made up my mind. …This is the first time that I left home since Christmas.

*

It takes around 30 minutes on the bus from our house to my uncle’s. There’s a huge shrine in the middle called the Ebihei. Well, it’s just a rural shrine that can’t compete with famous shrines or the Jingu. Even so, it’s still the grandest shrine around here. Stalls do open here during the new year. It’s quite lively.

It’s just that the God worshipped here is responsible for agriculture and development. So, it’s not as attractive as gods that bless your academics or relationship. Therefore, it’s not bustling with noise during the exam season or Valentine’s Day. That’s why it’s pretty much integrated into the local life, and the people loved it. It’s a strange shrine.

When we saw the Ebihei shrine’s torii is surrounded by people, Kousei dropped his shoulders while walking next to me.

“Ah, …I should’ve gone to the department store with mum and dad, right?”

“Stop it. Also, Kousei, if you went to the store as well, doesn’t that make me the only one to visit here in our house? You should be serious when praying.

Since the shrine’s parking lot is tiny, we always park our car near the department store and walk from there. However, my parents said that they wanted to get more gifts for Shin-san before worship. So, right now, only Kousei and I are strolling towards the shrine.

Kousei shoved his hands into the pockets of his coat. Then, he sighed with a slightly philosophical expression.

“Basically, I don’t really like gods.”

“Why are you saying that in front of your shrine? Is your eighth-grade syndrome going again?”

“I’m in 9th grade. Uh, how should I put it? Don’t you think everything should be achieved with one’s own effort and mind?”

“Nope.”

I immediately answered. Kousei bulged his eyes. So, I continued with a solemn look.

“I think it’s more exciting when you managed to barely win a tough boss fight with a series of impossible critical hits. That kind of miracle must exist. It makes the game more fun.”

“Our onii-san has to put everything in a gamer’s sense, right?”

Kousei mumbled dumbfoundedly. I smiled and continued.

“But, Kousei, I think what you just said was pretty similar to what Konoha-san would think. -Hey, what’s wrong, Kousei!? Why are you giving me a face that only appears in manga for delinquents!?”

“Uh, …it’s nothing, onii-san. It’s just that…my dignity as a human was severely insulted by my family.”

“Isn’t that serious!? Eh, I’m sorry, did I say something inappropriate?”

“No, it’s okay. You weren’t at fault here, onii-san. It’s all of that black twin-tail, inferior creature’s fault. She reminds me of a cockroach’s tentacles.”

“C-Cockroach?”

I really don’t know who’s Kousei talking about, so I fell into confusion.

So-

“Ahem!”

-We heard someone coughing loudly behind us.

I quickly turned around. Then, I saw a pair of tentacles- No, I saw a girl with black twin-tails.

“T-Those heavy S brothers over there, what were you guys talking about?”

“K-Konoha-san?”

…I don’t know whether I should say I didn’t expect this or not. …A contestant of the top or second girl that I don’t want to see right now, Konoha Hoshinomori-san. She’s still wearing her usual coat even during the new year.

I fell speechless by seeing her alone. However, Kousei wasn’t moved for a single inch. He even answered her emotionlessly.

“Ah, isn’t this the erotic girl- Konoha Hoshinomori-senpai? Ara, what a coincidence. We were just talking about you.”

“Huh! H-Happy New Year. …B-But I don’t think so, right? You guys weren’t talking about me, right. Aren’t you two talking about cockroaches or something-“

“Yeah! So! We were just talking about YOU!”

“…………”

“………...”

The two of them are smiling at each other, yet sparks are overflowing between them. …I feel like these two are indeed really close, even though they don’t share a point of contact …Hmm.

When I’m observing these two, I can hear straw shoe footsteps behind Konoha-san. The person is clearly not used to wearing them yet, and there’s a familiar yet quiet voice too.

“W-Wait for me, Konoha. Why did you go first-“

At this point, the owner of the voice saw us. …No, she mainly saw me first, so she immediately froze. I also stared at her while remaining speechless.

“Ah, K-Keita…”

“…C…Chiaki…”

An indescribable and incredibly awkward atmosphere radiated between us two. …This is not just the awkwardness after the Christmas party.

The thing that freaked me out the most is that…Chiaki looks way too beautiful in a kimono.

“…………”

Chiaki blushed embarrassingly, and she hastily hid behind Konoha-san. For some reason, I also felt like I just saw something I wasn’t supposed to look at. So, I can’t help but look away. …If there’s only the two of us, perhaps we’ll really just bid farewell to each other quietly since it’s too awkward. However, of course, our little brother and sister won’t allow something like that.

Their rivalry disappeared immediately. Kousei and Konoha-san immediately synced with each other.

“Ah, Chiaki-senpai! Happy New Year! Hiya, you’re in a kimono! Onii-san, you should come to look at Chiaki-senpai in a kimono too!”

“Eh? Ah, uh, okay…”

I was forced to come forward. So, in front of me, Chiaki was pushed by Konoha-san forcefully as well.

“Yeah! Senpai, please look at my onee-chan in a kimono! Due to the implicit patterns and colors, it just makes onee-chan seems even prettier! She dressed this just for you, senpai!”

“EH? No, it’s not like that. T-T-The reason I wore this is because Konoha forced me-“

“Let’s forget about that, senpai! What do you think!? How do you feel about this!?”

“Eh? W-Why are you asking…”

My heart is wavering. Then, Kousei barged in front of me.

“Come, onii-san! You should say something to a dressed up girl! It’s manners, right!? Also, come to think of it, onii-san should say it first! Go!”

“Ehhh…!”

“Onee-chan, you should come forward too! Stand in front of Amano-senpai!”

“E-Ehhh!”

Chiaki and I were forced to stand in front of the shrine. …Well, at least we aren’t disrupting anyone, but we’re facing each other.

“…………”

This is so embarrassing. It’s almost like we’re a pair of bride and groom just before our wedding. At this point, we’re nearly forced to declare our love for each other. …I really want to escape. While I tried to…

“Say it! Say it! Say it!”

…Our little brother and sister’s cheers gave us tremendous pressure. What made them so energetic? No matter what, …I think I’m sure of one thing – Chiaki and I can’t escape this time.

(…Sigh. I should just quickly praise Chiaki and get this over with.)

I guess I should do that for Chiaki’s good. Yep, it’s not like I’m confessing, anyway. Even though I’m a loner, I can still praise a close friend’s clothes easily. Sheesh, don’t underestimate Chiaki and me.

After I adjusted my mind, I faced Chiaki again. Then-

(-Crap.)

-I can feel that the praises I casually prepared just disappeared away.

“…………”

Chiaki’s glancing up at me frequently. After I saw her seemingly embarrassed look, …I think my face’s getting hotter and hotter too.

(W-What is this? H-Huh? I should know how to praise a girl politely too…)

I can say it. Of course, I can say it. When Aguri-san asked me, “Did you realize I cut my hair for a bit?” I immediately answered without a tinge of sincerity. “Of course! Hiya, you’re so pretty!” And then I was punched in the face. …How can I possibly be unable to do something as simple as praising a girl I know casually…?

“…Ah, ugh.”

…No, I can’t say it. This is so embarrassing. …I’m already too embarrassed to say something as simple as calling Chiaki “cute.”

After all, …the most knotty part is that…no matter which way I put it…

(…I-It’s going to be how I really feel!)

Damn! Why do I feel that Chiaki’s really adorable!? Of course, that’s embarrassing enough! I’m not trying to be polite! It’s what I think literally! This is not the same as casually dealing with Aguri-san and then getting beaten up by her!

“…………”

The awkward atmosphere persisted between us. Time is slowly passing second by second. …At this point, even Kousei and Konoha-san, who started all this, are getting embarrassed as well. From their faces-

“What is this? It’s harder to praise her if you keep dragging!”

I can even see what they are thinking. Exactly. Right now, …perhaps I missed the chance to praise her simply. The awkwardness meter between Chiaki and me keeps breaking new records.

…This can’t continue. Although I’m the same, Chiaki’s more miserable than anyone.

I finally made up my mind after taking a deep breath. I looked at Chiaki’s eyes…and barely managed to tell her this.

“…I…I think you…look pretty cute…in this…”

“…T…Thank you…”

For some reason, we spoke respectfully to each other and nodded repeatedly.

As for the younger siblings that observed this scene, …they’re so excited as if they won the lottery. Suddenly, they grabbed their brother and sister’s hands and took a step before yelling.

“Good luck!”

“What!?”

I don’t really understand what’s happening, but Kousei and Konoha-san are both in a good mood.

Chiaki and I were dragged along with them as our eyes rolled around in exhaustion. When we looked at each other, at that moment-

“…Haha.”

-We exchanged a bitter and embarrassed smile. …Then, the two of us greeted each other for the new year in our own way.

*

After we washed our hands in the shrine, the four of us lined up for the praying. Even though I said that it’s rural, there are still many worshippers during the day of the new year. I guess it’ll take us another 5 minutes before we can see the offering box.

Both sides came to pray without their parents due to similar reasons. After we talked about what happened to us, Kousei and Konoha-san lead us. …They pretended to act naturally, but they’re clearly trying to pair up Chiaki and me. Kousei and Konoha-san lined up together. Also, Kousei even said this later.

“Ah, I’m having exams this year. So, I should get an amulet. Let’s go, dirty thing.”

“Let me ask you this, who’s the dirty thing here? Hey? Why are you dragging my arm? Hey!?”

Then, they left. So, in the end, Chiaki and I are all alone…

“…………”

Both of us are surrounded by old couples that look super blessed. We plopped our heads down sheepishly, and no conversation was made.

…However, after some time, I couldn’t hold my laughter back. Chiaki tilted her head and stared at me in her kimono.

“Hmm? What’s wrong, Keita?”

“Ah, it’s nothing. How should I say this…? After all the things that happened last year, we still ended up like we just knew each other. I think it’s pretty funny.”

“Like we just knew each other? …Ah.”

So, Chiaki looked at the sky as if she’s remembering the first contact with me. After that, she quickly showed the same smile as I did.

“Yeah! It’s indeed like this when I first met you all the way until we started arguing about moe elements. Even though there were many things we wanted to talk about, we’re too embarrassed to say them. We were so polite to each other back then…”

“Yes, yes, yes. Then, when I thought about that, I feel like…we were so disappointing. It’s funny.”

“Ahaha, you’re right. A lot of things happened last year.”

“Exactly. In the end, we stayed at the initial starting point after the new year. …Our gaming skills can’t even be applied to our real life’s adventure…”

I sighed as I told Chiaki, and she chuckled. She continued. “But-“

“Unbelievably, …I don’t feel like I’m starting a new game at all.”

“Yep, …you’re right.”

During this time, I looked at Chiaki’s face again. She’s smiling a bit embarrassingly. …Unbelievably, right now, I can sincerely feel that she’s really adorable. It’s…indeed different than before.

Even though the adventure’s over, and I lost all levels and equipment. A hero who took a trip around the world is indeed different from a hero who lived his life normally…

Chiaki and I…absorbed all the bittersweet experiences from last year too. That’s why we can stand here right now.

Currently, I’m feeling a bit proud of that.

…Yes. Everything can’t be forgotten that easily. Therefore…

“Ah, Keita, it’s our turn.”

I snapped out of my thoughts when it’s Chiaki and my turn to pray. We got our changes out from our wallets. Then, we walked in front of the offering box when the person in front finished worshipping.

We both tossed a coin inside. Then, as if we promised it first, both of us bowed down and clapped at the same time. After that, we closed our eyes and started praying to the gods.

“…………”

I usually report so much stuff like I’m a light novel protagonist in times like this. Whether I’m facing gods or tombstones, it’s an excellent chance to evaluate yourself when you’re speaking to an invisible existence. …Think about it, after all, …there are many things I have to reflect on in my daily lives…

However, there’s a bunch of people lining up today. So, I decided to keep it simple.

(It’s been a long time. Thanks to the gods, the last year was pretty incredible. I got to know a bunch of respectful friends that I didn’t deserve. Thank you so much. This year, I hope I can repay everyone’s gratitude in my own way. Finally, …I hope this year will be a good one for the people that I trust. I would appreciate it if the gods are willing to bless me.)

I opened my eyes and finished praying with a last respectful bow. Then, I realized Chiaki finished at the same time as well. I think I’m pretty much used to the situation now. However, it’s still a bit awkward when we’re this synchronized. …Although I didn’t check up on her, from Chiaki’s gentle expression, I feel like she wished for similar things too.

To avoid the old couple’s warm look behind us, we quickly left the offering box area. After that, Chiaki and I came to a relatively quiet place inside the shrine. We managed to catch a break.

“Well, Keita, I started worrying too much whether I thought that people were waiting behind us. It’s like when I’m in an arcade.”

“I get it. In the end, when it’s my turn to play, I’ll quickly end the round even though I looked forward to it for a long time.”

“Yeah.”

We smiled at each other. Then, we observed the shrine to try and find Kousei. However…

“Weird, I can’t see Konoha around the shrine office.”

“Yep. Even so, I didn’t see them in the worshipping line as well. …Where did they go?”

We looked at each other’s faces since we have no idea what to do. …Basically, if they’re coming to visit the shrine with their brothers and sisters, I think they won’t leave the shrine so quickly…

“We should just take a walk around the shrine, Chiaki.”

“Sure.”

After that, both of us took a step at the same time. Since Chiaki struggled to fight with her new straw shoes, I slowed down and accompanied her as I asked.

“Chiaki, are you alright? How about I just go look for those two instead?”

“Eh? I-If that’s the case, …I d-don’t want to. A-After all, this is a rare chance…”

“I-I see…”

“A rare chance of that? I couldn’t bring myself to ask that. …So, I can only scratch my cheeks.

But Chiaki really looked like she’s having a hard time walking, and I can’t stop worrying about her. So, she looks like she’s about to fall again. Although I hesitated for a moment, …I still immediately made up my mind and grabbed her hand.

“Ah…”

Chiaki immediately blushed in embarrassment. -Right before that, I set up a line of defense and told her this.

“C-Chiaki, this is just the best option to avoid you from falling and hurting yourself. I’ll say this first. I’m not trying to do anything funny.”

“O-Okay.”

“S-So, Chiaki, I hope you can act a bit more natural.”

“Ugh, …I-I’ll try my best! Yes! Sure!”

While Chiaki said that, her face still ended up as red as a tomato. …Nope, no matter the reason, handholding is handholding. Only a close couple would do something like that.

…Even so, it’s not like I can just ignore Chiaki having a hard time walking.

After I sighed, Chiaki showed a slightly apologetic and bitter smile.

“I-I’m sorry, Keita. I don’t think this pair of straw shoes are designed to be stable. …Ah, even though Konoha picked this, I don’t believe that this is a mistake she’ll make. Sheesh.”

I knew it the moment I heard that.

“No, that’s actually the perfect choice of Konoha-san. Jeez, that girl…”

“Hmm? Keita?”

This onee-san doesn’t know anything.

(I’m already confident of this during Christmas. Konoha-san’s definitely trying to pair Chiaki and me together. Also, she used some impressive wit to achieve that.)

…Seriously, what’s wrong with that girl? How can she control someone this easily? The talented Hekiyou High School student council president is way too scary when she’s serious.

However, this way, it’s pretty suspicious when Kousei and Konoha-san both disappeared right now. Ay, even though I think Kousei was only dragged along by her. Sheesh. …Don’t pull my perfect little brother into your baffling plans, please.

I took a sigh. Then, I told my prediction to Chiaki, who’s literally cuddling me while holding my hand.

“Chiaki. Honestly, …I don’t think we can find those two even if we tried.”

“Eh, really? Why?”

“Well…”

Crap, it’s hard to skip Konoha-san’s plans if I want to explain it. W-What should I do? If only I can convey the current situation to Chiaki…

“Uh, …how should I put it…? I should say, right now, we have to wait for the trigger of the next plot…”

“Ah, it’s often like that when you’re imprisoned in an RPG.”

I think Chiaki got it. She’s so reliable. We totally shared the same view on gaming!

I continued.

“So, if that’s the case, we should just leave the shrine. Chiaki, just send them a message.”

“Well, if we’re looking for a place for us to kill time, there’s a family restaurant, fast food shop, and a café. …No, instead of going to those places…”

At this moment, both of us thought of a brilliant idea. So, our faces brightened up, and we said this at the same time.

“The toys area in the department store!”

We literally said the same suggestion as if it’s the undeniable truth. After that, as if our nervousness before was made-up, we started walking towards the department store excitedly.

…Yes.

-We’re holding our hands intimately on the street filled with people.

Karen Tendou

I, Karen Tendou, witnessed “that scene” as if I’m obliged to.

“…Ah, …ay, …ugh…”

Across the road, my ex-boyfriend and Chiaki-san, who’s kimono is so cute that my nose is about to bleed, are holding their hands warmly…

“…………”

Witnessing that scene, the single girl in winter stopped and looked at them dazedly. Her coat is the usual one, and she didn’t spend any time dressing up as well.

“…N-No, no, no, no.”

Then, she suddenly laughed out idiotically. The girl’s hair is messed up since she didn’t comb her hair in the new year. That’s me.

…Y-Yeah. At my level, I won’t be irritated or yell and scream over a trivial matter like this. Indeed. I did learn a thing or two during that painful last year.

(T-This is obviously the misunderstanding that always happens around us. That’s definitely the case. Karen, it’s too early to be jealous…)

Although I took a deep breath to take my calm back, …I still can’t help but follow those two. I’m not jealous or stalking them. Well, …I’m just trying to buy time to think this out.

I remained out of their sight as I peeked and trailed them from behind.

(Their expression, …ay, they look really cheerful. I feel like they aren’t reluctant to do this. …Uh, well, if I had to say…what kind of misunderstanding’s happening here… Ugh…)

I pondered about this as I followed them closely, …again, …and again…

“Hey, isn’t there too little space for interpretation!?”

I suddenly yelled out loud! So, the two almost turned around and looked here. I hastily dashed from the street into the alley before hiding next to a building. After that-

“Huh, isn’t this Tendou?”

“Hey, Tendou-san. Happy New Year.”

-Of course, I “had” to bump into the couple Uehara-kun and Aguri-san. There aren’t many places to go during the new year in a rural area like this. However, isn’t it too weird to bump into friends this frequently? I think the god responsible for our relationships is working extra hard during the new year.

Moreover, both Uehara-kun and Aguri-san are in a kimono. Well, to say how much they look like a married couple with those clothings, when a single girl like me saw that-

“Yes. Happy New Year. The happy part is already over.”

“It’s over?”

After I greeted them with a fake smile, I immediately started to follow those two again. Then, the couple freaked out and said, “No, no, no, no, no!” They grabbed my shoulder. …What an annoying couple (temporary).

I turned back and looked at them with turbid eyes. For a moment, they looked like they regretted stopping me, but they pressed on.

“Hey, T-Tendou, what’s wrong with you? Did something happen to Amano again?”

“Y-Yeah, it’s close…”

My face turned sour. Aguri-san tried to comfort me.

“Ah, but think about it, it’s always that pattern, right. Amanocchi accidentally did something, and then you misunderstood it before getting jealous! It must be like that! So, can you explain what’s happening to us clearly-“

“No, I’m already having a problem interpreting this time. …Sigh, that’s enough!”

I’m starting to find this meddlesome couple repulsive. It’ll be faster if I let them watch. -So, I thought about that and dragged them to the main street. Then, I pointed at the opposite sidewalk. …Amano-kun and Chiaki-san are walking lovingly together.

When they saw that scene, their reaction was…

“Ah, …ah, …well, …hmm, now that I’m looking, …well…”

They followed those two with me closely as they crossed their arms in front of their chests. They are mumbling something. …So, 10 seconds passed.

In the end, -they dropped a familiar conclusion at the same time.”

“Hey, isn’t there too little space for interpretation!?”

“See?”

I looked at my ex-boyfriend’s intimate scene with a dead fish’s eyes. Then, I laughed helplessly.

“It’s okay. You two can laugh at a pathetic woman like me as much as you watch. I wanted to compete fair and square, so I supported my rival. In the end, my power as a woman was immediately surpassed by Chiaki-san in one stroke. Please, feel free to laugh at me!”

“What a miserable way to start a new year!”

They are looking at me with tearful eyes. …D-Don’t sympathize with me too much, please? It’s so upsetting that I’m about to cry.

“…………”

The three of us trailed behind Keita Amano and Chiaki Hoshinomori closely with a funeral-like mood. …W-What the hell am I doing during the new year? I’m leading a depressed couple to stalk my ex-boyfriend. This is way too low for an activity in the new year.

I took a deep breath and tried to suggest to Uehara-kun to stop something this pointless-

“…Eh?”

-During this time, I discovered another guy and girl with familiar faces behind them.

As if they were following my sight, Uehara-kun and Aguri-san turned around as well.

So, in that direction, …we can see Konoha-san’s embarrassed face, and Kousei Amano-kun, who looks quite pissed.

Those two came to meet up with us.

“…Ah, …h-hello, everyone…”

“…Sigh, …sheesh. All you do is bother us…”

Also, perhaps I should say I expected this. …The two of them are indeed frequently peeking at Amano-kun too.

I guess Aguri-san immediately saw what was happening, so she sighed and made a conclusion.

“Ah, …I see. It looks like you two ‘younger siblings’ are responsible for this.”

Kousei-kun’s face turned stiff. He reacted to her conclusion.

“Please wait. Aguri-nee-san. Even though you’re the second most respectable friend of onii-san behind Chiaki-senpai in my eyes, I still can’t tolerate how you grouped us. Please don’t put me together with this erotic girl senpai.”

Kousei-kun still dropped another insult with a calm face. Konoha-san retorted.

“That’s my line! The reason Kousei and I are like this is that there’s a consensus between us…”

“Aren’t you two just trying to meddle things and pair up your onii-san and onee-chan together? That’s it, right.”

“…………”

Aguri-san pointed out the truth, and it made them look away in silence. …It’s because these two belonged to the smart type. …So, I guess they are unexpectedly weak at dealing with Aguri-san, who always relies on her instincts. In other words, Aguri-san can reach their complicated conclusion without any reasoning.

After that, Uehara-kun urged us since we stopped completely.

“Ah, no matter what, we’ll lose them if this goes on.”

“…………”

After he reminded us, …anyway, the five of us formed up and started walking.

…Where can you even find such a large-scale stalking mission like this? Seriously, what the hell are we doing since the new year?

The “what the hell’s happening” feeling is permeating between the five of us. So, Kousei-kun seemingly backed down for a bit and sighed as he explained to us.

“We don’t need to follow them so closely. Onii-san and his darling, ..oh, I was being impolite. Onii-san and his future wife, …oh, I was impolite again. It’s because I know onii-san and Chiaki-senpai are heading towards the department store’s toys area.”

(I-It’s super annoying when he’s such a tryhard shipper!)

Uehara-kun, Aguri-san, and I can’t deal with this guy. So, Konoha-san added with a bitter smile.

“Honestly, I doubt they’ll make any more progress. I guess them holding hands would be today’s climax.”

“Ay, I guess so. They’re Amanocchi and Hoshinocchi, after all.”

Aguri-san gladly accepted Konoha-san’s opinion. …From this perspective, I really understood that she’s not interested in treating Amano-kun as a guy. However…

(F-For some reason, on the other hand, …she does look like the main chick!)

I-I get it. I also know that there’s nothing between them! However, how should I say it…? I think I just lapped around my heart for once and felt like, “That attitude is even nobler!” Sigh, I’m slowly sinking into this mud pool once I started getting suspicious. That’s what happening here, right. O-Okay, I understand. I’m also aware of this! But even if I understood it, I still can’t pull myself out. That’s why it’s called a mud pool!

So, when I’m trying my best to propose something to somewhere inside my heart, Konoha-san continued.

“Uh, so, …can everyone just disband here? Kousei and I have to meet up with them after this. That’s why we’re following them as a part of the family…”

This reasoning couldn’t be more logical. Uehara-kun and Aguri-san are already showing signs of giving up.

However, …I…

“…I’m sorry, Kousei-kun, Konoha-san. I deeply understand that I’m not supposed to do this. …Even so, can I please observe those two for a bit longer? I beg you two.”

I lowered my head and bowed. For a moment, both of them blinked in confusion. Then, they tried to persuade me for different reasons.

“You’re really not supposed to do this. Although I’m the same as the erotic girl, you’re literally stalking someone right now. This hobby is way too disgusting, creepy stalker senpai.”

“Hey, Kousei! Ah, …even though I don’t like how this guy said it. But, Tendou-senpai, actually, I can’t see any benefits from you continue watching them. No matter how things turned out, I think every possible future only involves senpai getting hurt…”

What they said was incredibly reasonable. Usually, I wouldn’t be able to retort.

However, …even so, I still don’t want to back down.

“Indeed, there’s no benefit to watch those two being so close to each other. I got that. But…”

My eyes are overflowing with determination as I looked at them

“Right now, …I don’t want to escape from those two’s sincere feelings.”

“…………”

Both of them fell silent after hearing what I said. …Then, …Kousei actually backed down first. He kept scratching the back of his head, which kind of looks like what Amano-kun would do.

“…I see. This isn’t a bad thing. …It means that you made up your mind, right. You’re willing to quit as long as you confirmed that they loved each other. Am I right?”

“…Yes.”

“Well, …yep, this isn’t a bad thing for onii-san and Chiaki-senpai.”

Kousei nodded before glancing at Konoha-san.

As for Konoha-san, …for some reason, she’s giving me a sorrowful look.

“…Sheesh, …I can’t believe you’re willing to quit this easily. …You’ll quickly regret making a promise like this later. …I already knew the consequence…”

“Hmm? Konoha-san?”

“…Sigh, jeez! Alright, alright, alright! I got it! It’s more like I don’t have the right to reject determination like that! I’ve had enough! That’s what it takes to be a good girl…!”

Konoha-san’s getting mysteriously anxious, but she still agreed for me to tag along.

I bowed at them once again. After that, I looked at Uehara-kun and Aguri-san.

“Now that things turned this way, …what are you two going to do?”

“Hmm…”

Both of them looked at each other a bit awkwardly. However, they immediately reached a consensus at the next moment. The couple even turned down our offer politely.

“Uh, I guess we’ll stay out of this. I shouldn’t meddle with my best friend’s relationship. The two of us will go to the shrine for the new year.”

“Yeah! Moreover, I can almost guess what Amanocchi will do next. If that’s the case, I want to spend today with Tasuku praying in the shrine casually.”

Aguri-san said that as she hugged Uehara-kun’s arm. In contrast to this, Uehara-kun pretended to be calm, yet a slight blush appeared on his face.

I’m really envious of this couple (temporary). So, I smiled at them. “I see.” After that, we greeted each other properly for the new year.

“Happy New Year, the two of you. I wish you a happy holiday.”

“Oh, I hope you have a good new year too.” “I hope you have a good new year as well!”

After they said that, the couple left after greeting Konoha-san and Kousei-kun.

The three of us watched them slowly disappear. Then, we started moving again. “Let’s go.”

So-

“Well, it’s time for us to move. We’re heading to the toys area- to decide the fate of everything! Let’s stalk them! We aren’t learning our lesson from the new year!”

“What a disappointing line!”

I accompanied the uninterested younger siblings and followed Amano-kun and Chiaki-san.

Chiaki Hoshinomori

Right now, I’m experiencing the most blessed moment of my life.

“…………”

I’m slowly on my way from the shrine to the department store. I looked up to the boy that’s holding my hand while walking – Keita’s face.

His cheeks are red from embarrassment; His expression’s a bit stiff from the nervousness; His palm is sweaty. However, he frequently turned around with a clumsy smile to stop me from worrying.

“…………”

I love all of this so much. I’m so happy, and my heart’s feeling really warm. …I can’t help but stick too close to his arm.

“!”

Keita’s body turned stiff as he became nervous. However, his rationality of “holding me tight” won in the end. So, he paid even more attention to walking forward. The boy’s willing to tolerate my willfulness to this point.

To me, it’s already…too comforting for me to bear. I feel like my tears will come out if I relax for even a second.

(…What do you mean by Keita and I are just friends? …I’m really going to laugh.)

I looked back at what I said a while ago, and I can’t help but smile bitterly. Hiding such feelings in my heart, …I can’t believe I still acted like “I accepted my rejection” in the past.

“Hmm? …Chiaki?”

Keita’s looking at me bitterly smiling, so he tilted his head in confusion. Although I’m still chuckling, I don’t wish to bother him. Therefore, I came up with another reason.

“It’s nothing. I was thinking after I spent so much effort dressing up, …I just prayed for a while before going to the department store in the new year. It’s pretty laughable.”

“Hmm, …I-I’m sorry. Should we find another place to kill time?”

“No, no, no, there’s no need to at all! Instead, I really looked forward to it. It’s been a long time since I browsed games with you!”

“It’s been a long time? Ah, …somehow, there aren’t many chances for us to check out games together.”

“Yes, yes!”

I smiled as I nodded repeatedly. In reality, I do mean it when I said I’m looking forward to shopping with him. It’s just that..I’m already feeling so blessed at this time.

I cuddled with Keita as we walked from the shrine for around 5 minutes. Then, we arrived at the destination – the department store. We went to the escalator directly without even looking at the floor plan. …As gamers, it’s only logical for us to know every detail about the gaming markets near us. …Well, I do have to look at maps when you ask me where I can buy girl’s clothes!

After we took the escalator, we stepped towards the gaming store on the 5th floor. The escalator’s wide enough for two people to stand next to each other. However, I think I need to hold the handrail. So, I let go of Keita’s hand and stood behind him.

Keita looked at me worriedly from a step above me. After that, he looked behind me and tilted his head. “Eh?”

“…For a moment, I thought I saw Kousei and Konoha-san together…”

“Eh?”

I turned my head around shockingly, but I can’t see them with my eyes. Since other people got on the escalator as well, I looked at Keita again.

“Are they really there?”

“Hmm, …I’m not sure. They immediately disappeared after passing the corner of my eyes…”

“You’re saying that like they are cockroaches.”

“Uh, it’s real. I should say their skills are exceptional. I think that’s what a high base stats person does when he tries his best to hide.”

“What are you talking about? I think Konoha’s not bored enough to do that.”

“Hmm, …I guess you’re right. Stalking a lonely duo during the new year, no one in their sane mind would do such a pointless thing.”

“Yes, it’s impossible for someone to be this miserable in the world. Keita, sheesh…”

“Sorry, I think I got a bit too self-conscious recently. I’ll try to improve.”

Keita said that as he turned around again. Therefore, I concluded that the restless glares I felt behind me were just my imagination.

We continued riding the escalator and arrived on the 5th floor. The gaming section is right in front of us. So…

“Come here, Chiaki.”

“Ah…”

Keita’s reaching his hand out to me in front of the end of the escalator. His breathing’s a bit rough. It looks like he’ll continue holding me.

Although my heart is filled with an indescribable emotion, I grabbed his hand.

So, when we’re touring around with a tinge of embarrassment, Keita started chatting with me to switch this weird mood.

“I-It’s indeed the new year. There’s a lot of kids around here.”

“Y-Yeah, this place is usually so empty that it makes you worry after school.”

“Right. I only come here if I’m looking for a sold-out game. …Ah, wait.”

“Hmm? What’s wrong, Keita?”

Suddenly, Keita gave me a resentful look for some reason.

Just as I’m baffled by him, Keita continued.

“< Kurikure 3 >…”

“Hmm? Eh? What’s wrong with that famous game released last year…?”

At this point, with the surrounding environment, a blurry memory resurfaced inside my heart. …Yes, I remembered it. It was at this place where I…

Keita sighed and mumbled as if he’s checking his answers with mine.

“Chiaki, …last year, there’s only a single copy of < Kurikure 3 > left here, and you bought it away…”

“Ah, …I-I remembered that.”

I quietly look away as sweat appeared on my face. Yes, …that happened back when Keita and I still treated each other as rivals. At that time, < Kurikure 3 > was sold out. I got the last copy here. I think I even bragged to Keita…

After Keita watched me look away awkwardly, he chuckled.

“I feel like a lot of things happened between you and me last year, Chiaki.”

“Y-Yeah. …Basically, we knew each other after last year’s spring.”

“Yep, it’s right after I rejected Tendou-san’s invitation…”

“…………”

My heart ached for a moment when I saw Keita’s thinking everything based on the girl “Karen Tendou” so naturally. However, …I won’t give up because of trivial stuff like this anymore. Instead, I refused to admit defeat and tried to drag his mind to me.

“B-But, I started interacting with Yama-san and Tsucchi as NOBE and Mono even earlier! Yes!”

“Eh? Yep, y-you’re right. From this perspective, perhaps I knew you for the longest in the Game Hobby Club.”

“Y-Yes, yes, yes, yes!”

I’m nodding way too many times today! Keita’s a bit scared by my excitement, but he continued the conversation.

“Come to think of it, at that time, that person, …right, Miyamoto-san was there too.”

“Hmm? You’re saying…Miyamoto-san?”

“Yep. I think his name is Satoshi Miyamoto. Think about it, he’s the handsome middle-aged uncle with me. …He’s quite unique in every way.”

“Ah…”

Right, I think I saw quite a bold person there. Also, I can subtly remember that I ran away since I freaked out at that guy’s boldness…

Keita continued nostalgically.

“In the end, I didn’t manage to buy < Kurikure 3 > that day. ..I should say I gave it to that person at last.”

“Oh, really? I feel like…I should apologize to you.”

“It’s okay. I managed to buy it later. So, you don’t need to mind. Moreover, I was the one that decided to give it to Miyamoto-san. Let’s forget about that, Chiaki. < Kurikure 3 >’s really a great game!”

“Yeah, yeah! I think I brought it up at that time. That’s such a fantastic game! Right, Keita, did you know this!? < Kurikure 3 >’s about to get a large DLC soon! I think they’re adding new classes!”

“Eh, really!? Uwah, I’m looking forward to it! Thanks for telling me that!”

“No problem. That’s nice! We have to try it, Chi- no, Mono!”

“…! Yeah, Tsucchi!”

Both of us walked towards the game shelf peacefully. During this time, I can feel a vengeful spirit looking at me from behind, so I turned around-

“Hmm? Chiaki, what’s wrong?”

“Ah, it’s nothing. …I think I just saw something passing right under my eyes just then…”

“Why are you saying that like you saw a cockroach…?”

“No, this time, instead of saying that it’s a cockroach, I think it’s a golden object quickly appearing and disappearing…”

“What is that? It feels like it got a bunch of gold or experience. Chiaki, you’re spending too much time on games.”

“…I guess so. Ah, we’re already here, Keita!”

“Ah, really. Right, let’s start checking these out, Chiaki!”

“Alright, alright!”

Karen Tendou

“U…UGGHHHH…!”

“Told you.”

A vengeful spirit is staring at the intimate couple behind the shelve gap, …that’s me, Karen Tendou. The younger siblings are staring at me, dumbfoundedly.

Konoha-san shrugged helplessly and continued.

“So, didn’t I tell you this before? Tendou-senpai, it’s meaningless for you to continue watching them.”

“…H-Hiya, sheesh, what are you saying, Konoha-san? I’m the woman that always writes ‘self-control’ during free calligraphy training, Karen Tendou. At this point, I won’t be hurt by something so trivial…”

“Hey, you kept biting your bag’s belt and stared at Amano-senpai with blood-lusting eyes. You aren’t fooling anyone.”

“Please relax, Konoha-san. This leather is made with natural material, and I even wiped it with anti-bacterial towels before. It’s safe and reassuring when you bite it.”

“Hey, it’s even scarier when you can consider this much calmly.”

Konoha-san complained to me helplessly. Behind her, Kousei-kun sighed as well.

“Uh, even though I allowed you to follow us, you have to be serious when it comes to stalking. We aren’t messing around.”

Kousei-kun scolded me about weird stuff in a solemn tone. I answered with an “I got it.”

“So, that’s why whenever I’m about to get discovered, I brilliantly ‘rolled and dodged’ to avoid them from seeing me, right?”

“This is the first time that I saw someone dodging like that other than in games. That’s horrific.”

“Please relax. I also considered hygiene. I used a ‘mid-air roll-dodge’ that’s 3 inches away from the ground. Moreover, there’s an invincible period during that as well.”

“That’s already not what humans can do, right. Hardcore gamers are way too scary. Also, that’s not even the problem. I mean, your aura will naturally make them turn around.”

“Ho, Kousei-kun, don’t underestimate Karen Tendou. If you were talking about ‘absolute despair,’ I already used that a long time ago.”

“How could you use a move in mangas so naturally? No, that’s not what I want to talk about. Please don’t release your dark, jealously aura whenever they’re acting lovey-dovey. That can even make an ordinary person turn around and look at our side.”

“Yep. I’m indeed amazing, right?”

“You can just go home!”

Kousei-kun got mad for some reason. …From my perspective, the Amano brothers both have weird triggers.

When Kousei-kun and I were glaring at each other, Konoha-san tried to smooth things over. “Alright, alright.”

“Anyway, we should observe onee-chan first, right. Tendou-senpai, please try to limit your jealousy when you’re looking at them. Also, don’t mind too much, Kousei. We aren’t actually discovered.”

“…Understood.”

We answered her unwillingly. Konoha-san sighed deeply alone.

“Why am I the one with the most common sense here…? There are too many weirdos around me…”

Even though I’m not sure what happened, she’s strongly radiating that “luckless person” aura recently.

Anyway, the three of us calmed down and started peeking at Amano-kun again.

On the 5th floor of the department store, we’re stalking Amano-kun at the kids’ clothing area next to the toys area. There’s some distance between us.

Typically, we can’t hear what those two are talking about. However, right now, we’re…

“Ah, Keita, Keita, isn’t this nostalgic?”

“Hmm? …Ahh! Isn’t this one of the best RPGs in last year’s autumn!?”

We can hear them clearly. …Of course, it’s not a superpower or anything.

The medium that plays out their conversation is actually…

“Yep, it looks like the app is working correctly.”

…It’s from Kousei-kun’s smartphone.

…Konoha-san and I secretly exchanged looks.

…Hmm, …right. Yes, I understand. If the situation got a bit stabler, …it’s almost time for me to ask this. Yep.

After Konoha-san and I looked at each other, I spoke up to Kousei-kun sheepishly.

“Ah, …hey, Kousei-kun? I really want to ask this. Uh, that thing that can make us hear Amano-kun talking clearly, don’t tell me…that’s an eavesdropping-“

“This is just an app for pranks.”

Kousei-kun’s mouth cracked into a smile and interrupted me. …That’s horrifying.

“Uh, but that clearly looks like an eavesdropping device using Amano-kun’s phone. Isn’t it slightly illegal when we can hear them talk-“

“This is just an app for pranks between brothers. It’s just that onii-san doesn’t know someone’s listening to them.”

“…No, so doesn’t that make it an eaves-“

“It’s just a prank.”

“…………”

Konoha-san and I fell silent. When we’re trembling in fear of this overly ridiculous middle school boy, Kousei-kun sighed and comforted us.

“Ay, actually, I usually won’t do this as well. This app is really just used for calls. Some kid from our relatives recommended us to install it.”

“Then why is it…”

“It’s because onii-san pressed the wrong button. He called us just then, and I bet it’s just a mistake. Then, I just pressed the accept button. Moreover, I think he turned his volume to the max. In the end, it miraculously turned into an eavesdropping device.”

“I see…”

I was relieved. From this perspective, Kousei-kun isn’t that unusual-

“…So, Kousei, even though you knew it, you aren’t ending the call? Also, you even carefully muted the app on our side so that they can’t hear us…”

“…………”

“…………”

…Kousei-kun smiled at us. We quickly looked away.

Konoha-san and I can’t stop sweating as we peeked at Amano-kun and Chiaki-san.

“…Yes, yes! Hiya, that part where he meets up with the protagonist from the last game is really exciting!”

“Yeah! Many RPGs failed to round up the story when they involved the prequel’s plot. As for this sequel, it connected the story of the last game’s protagonist. The mood got really excited-“

I can hear their cheerful conversation from Kousei-kun’s phone. As for him, …he got his phone close to us and asked with a devilish voice.

“Well, can I end the call now? It’s okay, right? I’m ending it. Get ready…”

“No, no, no, you don’t need to cut it so fast. This department store has Wi-Fi, after all!”

“Exactly.”

The middle schooler that’s smiling like Satan, and the high school girls looking away from guilt, …what’s wrong with this new year?

Anyway, we’re still eavesdropping on those two at a corner of the kid’s clothing area. Luckily, there’s barely anyone around here, and I guess we aren’t bothering anyone too.

As for Amano-kun and Chiaki-san, they kept browsing the games’ shelves together. The two are sincerely enjoying the “casualness” of selecting the games in a department store. …As a gamer, it’s not like I can’t understand how they feel. It’s because this isn’t a game store or shop that picks grand titles specifically. So, it really gives off that deep “it’s been a long time since I saw this game” feeling. That’s something you can experience in a department store!

So, I’m quite interested in their conversation. However, that’s not the case for the younger siblings, who are not really fond of games.

Konoha-san looks a bit fed up with the eavesdropped conversation as she spoke up.

“By the way, Tendou-senpai, didn’t you react weirdly to what they said? Uh, I remembered…you did that when senpai and onee-chan talked about that Miyamoto-san.”

“Eh? Ah, …that one?”

Right. Chiaki-san looked over here, so I freaked out and forgot about that. …At that time, I discovered quite a shocking fact.

I explained to Konoha-san with a bitter smile.

“Uh, …it’s a bit complicated. To put it simply, the ‘Satoshi Miyamoto” they talked about…is my father.”

“Eh?”

The younger siblings froze. It’s rare to see this expression on their faces. Although I’m somewhat happy, I continued to explain.

“I was pretty baffled at that time too. My father still managed to get a sold-out game even though he knows nothing about gaming.”

Kousei-kun answered.

“Ah, …I heard onii-san before. He gave the game to that person.”

“Yes.”

I can’t help but smile due to the warmth in my heart.

“…Yeah, …Amano-kun was the one that gave me the game…”

“…………”

“Eh, don’t tell me Amano-senpai and that Miyamoto-san, …which is your father, met each other and even gave the game to him. Then, it ended up in Tendou-senpai’s hands? Also, you two didn’t know any of this until now?”

“Yes. I think that’s all.”

“Well, that’s some serious fateful encounter. You’re comparable to my onee-chan…”

Konoha-san stopped in the middle of her sentence. …I guess she’s considerate of her onee-chan.

I gave her a reassuring smile.

“It’s indeed a fateful encounter, and I’m pretty happy about it too. But, please understand this, Konoha-san. To me, or to Chiaki-san’s love, …a fateful encounter doesn’t really matter that much anymore.”

“It…doesn’t matter?”

“Yeah. Isn’t it the truth? Perhaps Chiaki-san and I…got the chance because of fate or mistakes. However, at this point, we’re just hopelessly in love with Keita Amano. Even though our emotions can still be affected by fate, there’s no deeper meaning within it. The other parts…are more important.”

“…Tendou-senpai, you…”

Konoha-san squinted her eyes as if she saw something really bright.

For some reason, Kousei-kun hmphed displeasingly.

“…Hmph, …if you’re going to be the bad guy, why don’t you just play it well…”

“Hmm? Kousei-kun?”

“It’s nothing. I was saying you’re really a pain in the butt, …ex-girlfriend-senpai.”

“Why are you suddenly mad at me!?”

Ugh, it’s quite fatal when Amano-kun’s little brother hates me. …I need to work harder.

(Huh? But I think this boy treated me as the “fake girlfriend” before. However, he said “ex-girlfriend” just then…)

When I’m lost in thought, Amano-kun’s tone suddenly changed during their conversation.

“…Right, Chiaki, there’s something, …uh, I have to tell you clearly. Can I say it, even though we’re at a place like this?”

“Huh! A…A-Alright….”

I can feel Chiaki-san’s nervousness and determination over the phone’s speaker.

“…………”

The three of us straightened our backs.

Don’t we feel guilty from listening to the critical part of their conversation? Although we thought about that-

Even so, we still made up our minds for something we simply can’t back down. We raised our ears to those two’s conversation.

Chiaki Hoshinomori

Oh, this is it?

When Keita spoke up respectfully, this question appeared in my mind.

I put the game box back onto the shelf. Then, I slowly stopped crouching and stood up before facing Keita. After we started browsing games, I let go of his hand to take the goods. Even so, that’s still one of the happiest moments in my life.

However, after seeing him in such a solemn look, sigh, I guess it’s over. -I felt a bit lonely when I realized that.

(…I bet…he’s talking about what happened on Christmas…)

To me, that day was unforgettable in every way. That’s a day where he replied to my feelings that I thought would never be answered.

Since that day, a tinge of warmth is lit inside my heart

…Even though I understand that it’s a pretty “brutal” tinge of warmth, I still felt…very blessed.

However, that illusion is about to end.

Although I feel very lonely about that, I, …no, Karen-san and I already made up our minds…

“…So, what do you want to talk about, Keita?”

…We won’t ever avoid his true feelings.

I looked at the boy’s eyes determinedly as I asked him. Then, Keita scratched his face…as if he made up his mind again. Then, he finally threw that topic out.

“Actually, I want to become a < Hero >.”

“…What?”

I let out a confused noise after my shoulders lightened up. Suddenly, …I think I heard a similar reaction from behind…at the kids’ clothing area. However, I didn’t see anyone when I turned around. …Is something possessing us today?

Keita ignored my confusion as he started searching the shelf again. After a while, he said, “I found it!” …He grabbed a box of a famous RPG remake and showed it to me.

“Look at this! It’s the third installment of a national RPG! There’s a personality test at the start of the remake, you remember that?”

I started searching my memories after he said that.

“Ah, …yeah. If I remember correctly, the events will change based on the simple questions you answered in the beginning. The personality of the hero protagonist is based on the player’s answer, right.”

“Yes! Then, that personality will affect the hero’s stats. For example, your intelligence will increase when your test result is smart.”

“Yeah, I remember that. That’s a nice design. …Uh, but, what’s up with that?”

That system is pretty impressive, …but what are we talking about?

After I tilted my head, Keita continued talking about the game.

“Then, this test is quite strict. The different personalities yield varying results.”

“…Yep. Although I’m not really sure, …I think that’s the case. From my memory, there are a bunch of personalities that give you positive modifiers. Still, there are many negative ones too.”

“Exactly! So, it’s better to check out walkthroughs to pick the protagonist’s personalities from a simple gameplay perspective.”

“I see.”

I don’t understand what he’s trying to say.

Keita looked at the back of the cover nostalgically and pressed on.

“Then, I love < Hero > the most when it comes to the stats modifiers alone. Even though your intelligence will decrease, your power will skyrocket. That’s his personality.”

“It’s a classical pick for a protagonist. I like characters that rely on his strength too.”

“Right? I think it’s definitely better to be the < Hero >…”

Keita said that as he put the box back onto the shelf. Later, he continued. “But…”

“For me, if I’m playing the game according to my thoughts, without watching any personality test walkthroughs, my results are always < Honest Person >.”

“I remembered that. …It’s a pretty versatile and normal personality, right?”

“Yep, the modifiers are pretty bland both positively and negatively. So, I guess it’s not that boring.”

T-That test result perfectly described Keita’s personality! The test is actually pretty accurate, right?

After I chuckled, Keita followed with a bitter smile…as he continued.

“However, …at that time, I hesitated for a while. In the end, I picked the < Honest Person > instead of the < Hero >.”

“Eh? Is it okay for you to not choose the < Hero >?”

“Yeah, it’s fine. I don’t think it’s cheating to spend your time picking the best personality. In other situations, I would choose to play relaxedly too. It’s just that…I can’t help but start the adventure that way.”

“…Really?”

Although I’m not sure where this is going, Keita’s concept fits his attitude very much. I feel like…my heart is warming up.

But, as if he’s purposely trying to make me relax, Keita suddenly brought up the topic.

“Then, …Chiaki, I want to talk about what happened on Christmas Eve.”

“!”

I held my breathing.

Keita plopped his head down awkwardly.

Actually, …I already have a rough idea of what he's going to say about that day.

(…You’ll say that’s just a misunderstanding, right?)

A serious and sincere boy like him is always loyal to Karen-san. He fell for Konoha’s trap, so he’s going to apologize and correct me. That’s why we’re hanging out today, right. …It’s because that’s what makes him Keita Amano.

I…put my hands on my chest. Then, I took a deep breath and answered him.

“Sure, what do you want to say?”

“Uh, …well, even though I feel really sorry for saying this, …Chiaki, about what I said at that time-“

“…Yes.”

I have to raise my head and look at the ceiling. I closed my eyes…to prevent myself from breaking into tears since I don’t want to stress him.

So, I waited for that fateful moment.

As for Keita, …he said the answer with a clear tone.

“Those are what I, Keita Amano, sincerely thinks. I hope no matter how much you misunderstood me, please don’t think I said that because I fell into Konoha-san’s trap.”

“----Eh?”

What he said was too shocking. I can’t help but look away from the ceiling and back to him.

After that, …although he blushed slightly, he looked at me sincerely.

He continued.

“So, …Chiaki, I’m really sorry.”

“…Eh? Uh, …what are you trying to apologize for?”

“It’s because I’m a terrible person? I just told a girl that confessed to me, ‘I actually love you as well.’ That’s the worse thing a guy can do.”

“Eh? It’s okay. …I…don’t think so…”

Indeed, it’s just like the slight hope I felt during this week. Making me looking forward to that tinge of light is very brutal as well. I guess Keita’s apologizing for that. …Actually, he doesn’t know I’m just as happy if not more because of that.

However, …even so, he still continued agonizingly.

“However, although I understand this terrible conclusion benefits no one, even so, …even so, I have to be sincere to my feelings that day. -No matter how awful I’m, I still think I shouldn’t ignore this and move forward.”

“Keita…”

“So, Chiaki, I’m telling you this right here again.”

At this point, Keita straightened his back uncharacteristically.

…There’s not the slightest sense of embarrassment at all. The boy sincerely…said that.

“Chiaki, right now, I see you as someone more than a friend. You’re a woman in my heart.”

“…Okay.”

Unbelievably, …this time, I didn’t freak out from embarrassment as well. I just smiled gently and accepted it. I was pretty happy with what he said. However, …since I understand the boy, I know what he’s going to say next.

Keita looked a bit hesitant at this point. …Even so, he still continued with determined eyes.

“However, no matter what, -the more important thing is, I still love Tendou-san.”

“…Yes.”

After that, …he’s so upset that his face wrinkled like he’s about to cry at any time. Even so, he still mustered that…brutal truth out.

“…I love her more, …more than I love you.”

“…Yes.”

However, I accepted that with a smile.

-He has to compare and rank people that he trusts the most.

How torturing would that be to one’s soul? How many times did he blame and hurt himself during this week? He’s the most gentle boy that I know. At this point, ...I’m about to break into tears as well.

However, that’s not the thing I should be doing now. It’s because right now, …no, no matter where I’m, there’s only one thing I should tell him.

So, …I’m just the same as him. Even though I know no one benefits when I say that, even so, …I followed and conveyed my intense feelings for him.

“Keita, …right now, I still really love you.”

“…Yes.”

“…I don’t want to…lose to Karen-san. I don’t want to…give up yet.”

“…Yes.”

Both of us fell silent for a moment.

“…………”

…Actually, both of us really want to escape from this cruel game called love immediately. …It’s already not entertainment when the participants have to hurt each other as they move forward.

However, …even so-

As gamers, both of us…tried our best and smiled at each other.

“Keita, I’ll go on the offensive now. This competition isn’t over yet.”

“No, I’ll quickly end this competition. I’ll show you that I can date Tendou-san again.”

“No, no, no, I’ll dash across the finish line before that, Keita.”

“It’s not going to happen. I’ll go back to her first.”

“Well, …in the end, we’re still opponents and rivals this year.”

“Yep, …we’re opponents and rivals.”

After we said that, both of us shook each other’s hands with a smile.

…I think our new year wasn’t starting until right now.

Karen Tendou

“…………”

The three of us looked at Amano-kun and Chiaki-san shaking hands as we fell silent.

Kousei-kun didn’t say anything as he ended the call in shame. As for Konoha-san, she looked at her onee-chan and Amano-kun as if they’re unreachable.

Then, I…

“…Yep, right…”

I made up my mind after seeing what those two did. Then, without bothering to consult Kousei-kun and Konoha-san, I quietly moved toward…Amano-kun and Chiaki-san.

“Eh?”

The younger siblings froze since they didn’t expect this. I ignored them and stepped forward. Then, I came next to those two as they finished shaking their hands and greeted them with a smile.

“Amano-kun, Chiaki-san.”

“Eh…?”

Both of them freaked out as they turned to me. I smiled at their startled look.

“Happy New Year, you two.”

“H-Happy New Year…”

While they hesitated for a while, they still greeted me humbly. I chuckled at their unchanging personalities and immediately followed it with another sentence.

“What a coincidence. …Although I wanted to say that, I’m sorry. Actually, I’ve been following behind you two since a while ago.”

“Eh?”

“I’m sincerely sorry.”

I bowed down and apologized for that. …Actually, I should apologize for eavesdropping on them too. However, Kousei-kun and Konoha-san will be dragged into this if I said it. So, …I sincerely said my apologies for stalking them.

They looked at each other confusingly for a moment. …After that, unexpectedly, they chuckled.

“Hey, it’s too late to say that at this point? There’s no need to apologize for things like this, Tendou-san. …Right, Chiaki?”

“Yeah. How many awkward moments have we been through until right now? Especially when we’re just chatting in public normally this time. Well, come to think of it, we should be the ones to say sorry! We’ll never get mad at Karen-san!”

“You guys…”

They’re just as gentle as ever, and it almost made me cry.

However, I managed to suppress this emotion and answered with a refreshing smile.

“…Thank you.”

“No sweat.”

So, after we apologized to each other, I brought up the real topic.

“Well, now’s that out of the way. …There’s something I want to suggest to you two. That’s why I came here.”

“Hmm? You’re suggesting something to us?”

“Yes.”

Amano-kun and Chiaki-san tilted their heads in confusion.

I closed my eyes and made up my mind again.

After that, I opened my eyes determinedly and explained to them.

“Should we set a time limit?”

“Time limit?”

They tilted their heads again. I continued. “Yes.”

“Yes, a time limit. Chiaki-san and I, …no, this is for Amano-kun as well. Currently, everyone must feel like they are a lost child in love. Comparing this to a game, it’s like we have no idea where the next destination to trigger the plot is. So, we can only level up dazedly.”

“Ah…”

They accepted my analogy readily. …Uh, it’s really convenient when you can compare everything with gaming.

I continued.

“Sigh, even though I’m the one that broke up with Amano-kun. However, this chaotic competing state is also what I hoped for. …Ah, I’m beating around the bush. No matter what, I feel the ‘main story’ can’t progress no matter how much we leveled up.”

“…Indeed.”

“Even so, I’m not forcing everyone to answer my suggestion right now. That will just backfire. Uh, …think about it, I rejected Amano-kun again before. That slight change of mind got me. ….Ay, seriously, why did I reject it…? …Ah, sheesh…! If I accepted it at that time, right now, Amano-kun and I are already…!”

“T-Tendou-san?”

“Huh! Sorry, I’m losing it. Ahem. Uh, let me explain this again. The reason that I rejected him can be summarized in one sentence. It’s because I feel like we’re just halfway through the competition. Even though the first place can only be decided after 3 laps, Amano-kun gave me the impression that he decided who won based on the first lap’s result…”

“I-I see…”

These two are usually a bit dense towards others, but they immediately got the hint if I used gaming metaphors. While I’m glad to see that, is this really okay for them…?

I cleared my throat and pressed on.

“However, this wouldn’t end without a time limit. So, …please allow me to set up a time limit for this race of love during the new year.”

“Ohh, …the president of the Game Club is incredible. …You’re so reliable!”

They finally started clapping their hands admirably. …Although I can’t see it, I can feel Kousei-kun and Konoha-san giving us a dumbfounded look. “These people have to consider everything with gaming…” …I don’t care.

I took a deep breath and puffed up my chest as I declared to them.

“This competition- has to end two and a half months later on March 14, which is the White Day.”

“Ohhh!”

The two gamers gave a round of applause again. I can still feel that Kousei-kun and Konoha-san are suspecting and looking at us dumbfoundedly. “Are these really high schoolers talking about their relationship problems?” …But I don’t care! After all, this is our style!

I pressed on.

“Who’s feeling will Amano-kun respond to on that day? Let us make a conclusion to everything here!”

I announced the rules of this race of love loudly. As for Amano-kun, he’s showing his intense passion for me.

“I-In other words, as long as nothing changes until that day -and I don’t do anything extra. We can go back together when I remained loyal to Tendou-san, right!?”

“E-Exactly.”

“Well, perhaps I’m really confident about this match!”

“!”

S-Stop it. I-I can’t even properly stand if you’re saying those affectionate lines with sparkling eyes. …Moreover, you’re saying that right in front of Chiaki-san. I tried my best to withstand it.

So, Chiaki-san mumbled as she started breathing heavily.

“T-This means that all I need to do is conquer Keita before that day comes, right?”

“Y-You’re right.”’

“That’s absolutely no problem! It’s a piece of cake if I need to conquer Keita in two and a half months. I can easily win this, yes! After all, …I, Chiaki Hoshinomori, is a live walkthrough for his thoughts!”

“I-Indeed…”

After Chiaki-san acknowledged her feelings, she’s rapidly chasing behind me at a scary pace. Although I think it’s good to pick a beautiful date, that’s why I chose White Day as the time limit. …Perhaps I can’t deny the fact it’s too long. 𝘧r𝘦𝗲w𝘦𝚋𝐧o𝘷𝘦𝙡.co𝑚

…………

I-I should just move up the deadline for a month and set it on Valentine’s Day-

“Okay, I’ll give it everything I got! There are two and a half months before White Day. …I’ll follow the Three Don’ts. Don’t go out (casually), don’t say anything (randomly), and don’t argue (with people). I can make this through!”

“M-Me too! There are two and a half months before White Day. …I’ll follow the Three Don’ts as well. Don’t distance myself (from others), don’t back down (for my love), and don’t forget to dress up. I’ll show you two I can make this through! Yes!”

“Ah, r-really? G-Good luck, the two of you…”

I-I can’t say it! At this point, they are entirely fired upon. As a hardcore gamer, I can’t say, “Should we move up the time limit?” That’s only something a fence sitter would say! Ugh…

A strong wave of regret is sweeping me up right now, so I dropped my shoulders helplessly and said, “W-Well-“ Then, I turned around.

“I-I’ll be leaving. …See you next time, Amano-kun, Chiaki-san.”

“Yes! We’ll wish you a happy new year!”

“O-Okay. I wish you a happy new year too.”

I smiled stiffly before leaving the gaming shelves depressingly.

…On my way, I guess Kousei-kun and Konoha-san thought it’s about time they meet up with their brother and sister. So, they walked towards me.

They scolded me at the same time just as the two passed me.

“Are you an idiot!?”

“…Yeah, I thought so.”

I sighed even more depressingly as I passed them. However, at this moment, I suddenly saw it. …While they are saying some mean things, their face showed a tinge of warmth.

I walked for a while and turned back before heading down the escalator. …Those four met up with their families and started chatting happily. I mumbled alone.

“…Even so, I’ll absolutely win this at last.”

So, our “final battle” started like a casual match. While it’s calm, stable, and peaceful on the surface-

-In reality, this marked the start of an all-out battle where no one wants to give their victory to others.