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"You're the coolest and most amazing

Saku-chan.
　For the past few days, I've been in a very bad mood. Ever since I
witnessed Yuzu and the prince talking in the courtyard, I've been in a
strange mood. Just remembering that scene makes me feel as if the
bottom of my stomach is being burned.
　The two of them, holding hands and looking at each other in the
courtyard, looked like a perfect couple to me. From what I've heard
around me, the prince is a man who has nothing to complain about,
and I have no choice but to support Yuzu's love. But I found myself in
the middle of them. I don't know why I did it, either.

　-Saku-chan, will you support me?

　 ……Of course I would support her. For me, there is nothing more
important than Yuzu's smile. So why am I so angry about it?

"Takatsuji-kun, your childhood friend is here.

　During lunch break, Mitsuhashi came to the seat in front of me and

called out to me. His lips were lightly pouting, and he had a somewhat
dissatisfied look on his face.
　When I looked in the direction Mitsuhashi was pointing, I saw Yuzu
peeking out from the door. It was unusual for Yuzu to come to my
class. I'm sure you'll be pleased to know that I'm not the only one
who's a little curious. I glared at the people who were looking at her
unkindly, and then went to her.

Yuzu, what's wrong?　Did you eat lunch?

I've eaten. Hey, Saku-chan, I have a favor to ask you.
　I think I've been listening to Yuzu's "requests" a lot lately, I thought
absentmindedly. When I said, "Okay," ahead of her, Yuzu laughed and
said, "I haven't said anything yet.

"Well, you have your final exam soon, right?　I didn't do so well in the
midterm, so…… I'd like you to teach me how to study.

　Yuzu is not a very serious person, but her grades are not very good.
My grades are not so bad, and I'm in the middle of the class as a whole.
I know that people around me think that I am surprising.

No problem. I've been thinking about studying for my exams.

Thank you, Saku-chan.

　Yuzu's face lit up. When I saw Yuzu's happy face, I felt the irritation I
had felt earlier fade away like a lie. It's a great way to make sure you're
getting the most out of your money.
　I noticed that the classmates were looking at Yuzu, so I casually
moved to hide her. I'm not going to sell her smile so cheaply. It's not
for show. If you really want to see it, you have to pay for it.

So let's do it after school today.

All right.
Do you want to come to ……my room?

　I was about to nod that I would, when I remembered the soft body
that had hugged me the other day. The two squishy, marshmallow-like
bulges that had been pressed against my breastplate. As I shook my
head to get rid of my worries, Yuzu blinked and asked, "What's wrong?
She asks.
"No, it's nothing……. Is there anyone at your place today?
What?　I'm not here, I'm working.
"No, not then. Let's go to the library.

　It's not a good idea for us to be alone in Yuzu's room right now. I
don't know exactly what's wrong with me, but I feel like it's wrong
anyway.
　At my words, Yuzu replied with a slightly disappointed "Yes". With her
fluffy hair swinging, she headed back to the next class. I went back to
my seat after her back was completely out of sight. Shirakawa, who
was sitting in front of me, was looking at me as if he had met a ghost.

What?
"No, Takatsuji, I was just thinking that you're like that with your
childhood friends.
"What?　What kind of face is that?
"You're always so unfriendly, but what's with that sweet smile?　Why
don't you show that to everyone around you? You'll probably be
popular.

　I reflexively held my cheek when he said "vomit sweet smile". I didn't

think I had such a relaxed expression on my face, but I wondered what
kind of face I had been making. I felt a little embarrassed when he
pointed it out again.

"Takatsuji-kun, turn around.

　One of my classmates, who seemed to be listening to our

conversation, called out to me teasingly. I took a sideways glance at it
and turned to Shirakawa without even smiling. Unfortunately, I don't
have the affection to show to anyone other than Yuzu at the moment.
　When Shirakawa saw me, he clucked his tongue in annoyance and
said, "Ugh, you annoying man.……

　After school, I went to pick up Yuzu as usual. Shinozaki glared at me

coldly as usual, then said, "See you later, Yuzu," and left. I didn't get a
single greeting from her, but it didn't matter because it was the usual.
　Yuzu and I walked to the library. Perhaps it was because it was
before the exam, but there were a few students studying. Yuzu and I
sat down at a seat in the back and spread out our study materials on a
long, narrow desk.

"Which yuzu is your least favorite?

"Math.……
What don't you understand?
I don't understand what you don't understand.

　Yuzu lowered her eyebrows in shame. Yuzu's allergy to mathematics

is quite severe. According to her, just looking at the numbers makes
her feel sleepy. I don't think she's a bad student, but I think she has a
strong sense of dislike for it.

"For now, here. I don't understand the problem.

　As Yuzu unfolds her textbook, I peek in to see what she's doing. I'm
sure you'll be able to understand why. I look at Yuzu with my
cheekbones as she grabs a mechanical pencil and begins to solve the
problems.
　When I was in the third grade, I spent all my time teaching Yuzu how
to study because she said she wanted to go to the same high school as
Saku-chan. The fact that my grades are so-so is a result of my
desperation to teach Yuzu how to study. Most of my motivation comes
from Yuzu. I'm willing to put in any effort for Yuzu.
　 In fact, I might have just wanted to go to high school with Yuzu.
　Whenever I taught her how to study, Yuzu always looked at me with
a sparkle in her eyes and said, "Saku-chan is amazing. It tickled me to
hear her say that I was the best and the coolest without any pedantry. I
wondered how much effort I had put in so far to get Yuzu's praise.
　For a while, I've been eavesdropping on Yuzu while I've been
studying myself. She had fluffy hair that clung to her face and looked
like it was in the way. I was tempted to ruffle her hair, but I guess that
was none of my business. Yuzu seems to be quite focused and doesn't
seem to notice my gaze.

"Hey, Hasumi-san.

　It had been about an hour since she had started studying. Suddenly,
Yuzu looked up as if she had been jolted by someone calling out to her.
I turned around and saw Prince Asahina standing there. Yuzu greeted
him with a whispered, "Hello. Asahina looked at me and gave me a
smile. It was a beautiful face that made me flinch.

"You were with Takatsuji-kun. You're close.

No, we're just childhood friends.

　I felt bad for Yuzu if I gave Asahina a strange misunderstanding.

When I firmly denied it, he nodded his head and said, "Hmm. I was a
little annoyed by his implied expression. I'm sure he's not a bad guy,
but he's just not a very nice guy.

Are you studying for the exam?

"Yes. Saku-chan is teaching me how to do it.
"I see. Oh, Hasumi-san. You're in the wrong place.
"Oh, my God.

　Asahina peeked into Yuzu's hand and tapped her fingers on the
notebook with a thump.

He said to apply this formula here.

"Oh, I see. Asahina-kun, you're so smart.

　I was not amused by Yuzu's honest praise of Asahina. As I spun my

pencil around, I thought childishly that it had always been my role to
receive Yuzu's praise.

I'll let you know some other time if you want.

"Thank you. But I'm fine.
I'll see you later. Sorry for interrupting you, Takatsuji-kun.

　I replied, "Not really," with a pouting expression on my face. I'm not

very good at this. But Asahina smiled contentedly and walked away. I
could see the girls from the library committee sitting at the counter
giving the prince a swooning look. Only around that guy, the air was
clearly different.

……He's going to teach you?

　In response to my question, Yuzu shook her head, shaking her frizzy
hair.

"No, no. Because Saku-chan will teach me.

　Those words saved my self-esteem. He's probably smarter than me,

and it's probably better for Yuzu (in many ways) to have him teach her.
But I still want to be relied on by Yuzu for a little while longer. I want to
be the "coolest and most amazing Saku-chan" for Yuzu.

"……I'm gonna get a better score than that guy.

Are you sure?　Asahina-kun, I'm in the Advanced Placement class.

　Why are you competing with each other," Yuzu said with a funny
smile. I couldn't answer that question. I knocked on my pencil and
finally faced my textbook, which I hadn't been reading properly.

Wait a minute with that bathing suit.

　I put my mechanical pencil down on my desk just as the bell rang to
end the exam. I'm a little worried that I didn't have enough time to
review, but I'm feeling pretty good about my performance. Saku-chan
seemed to be studying very hard for the exam this time, so I'm sure
she'll get a much better score than me.
　I heard a boy sitting behind me sigh, "Ah, it's finally over. I agree
with him. With a refreshed feeling, I turned my eyes out the window.
　The sun was shining brightly, shining down on the green leaves. The
sky was clear and blue, with white clouds floating in the air. When I
opened the window, I was sure I could hear the noisy cicadas.
　After the final exams, the summer vacation will begin. I don't have
any special plans at the moment, but I want to try my best to get closer
to Sakuya this summer. Maybe I'll get up the courage to ask her to go
out with me. I clenched my fists in front of my chest, secretly getting
fired up.
　After the test was over and the teacher left, the classroom suddenly
became very noisy. A group of girls near me seemed to be making
plans for their summer vacation, and with their phones in hand, they
were shouting excitedly.

"Hey, hey, let's go to the beach. The beach.

I bought a new bathing suit the other day.
Uh, what kind?

　As I eavesdrop on their conversation, I think about the upcoming

summer. I wondered if Saku-chan would take me if I wanted to go to
the beach. As I thought about this, I had an idea.
　When I think about it, I don't have a swimsuit. I have a school
swimsuit that I used for swimming lessons in junior high school, but a
school swimsuit is probably not a good idea for a high school student
going out. It would be better to buy a proper one. I'll go buy one on my
next day off, I thought to myself.

"What?　Swimsuit?

　Saku-chan raised her eyebrows suspiciously when I told her that I

was thinking of buying a swimsuit. Leaning against the train door, I
nodded my head and said, "Yes.
　During the exam period, classes end in the morning. It was still early
for the rush hour, so the train was not that crowded. A few seats away,
a group of well-dressed ladies were chatting happily. The sound of their
laughter echoed up to here.

"Where are you going to wear that thing?

……"It's summer vacation. I think I'll have a chance to wear it at least a
little bit.
……"Hmm.

　Saku-chan said this and suddenly turned his gaze away from me. I
didn't want to miss him, so I chased after him and looked into his face
from below.
What kind of swimsuit do you like, Saku-chan?
……"So why are you asking my opinion? What's the point?

　Saku-chan scratched his cheek, looking a little embarrassed. Saku-

chan is a boy of his age, and he might be a little embarrassed to be
asked about his swimsuit preferences. Even so, I had no intention of
retreating. I don't know if I'll ever get a chance to show it off, but I
want Saku-chan to think it's cute anyway.
　I took out my smartphone and opened a swimsuit shopping site that I
had bookmarked. When I showed her the screen with all the pictures of
swimsuits, she flinched a little and said, "Which one do you like?

"Oh, I get to choose?

"No, I don't think so.
"Not no.

　Saku-chan looked into her phone as if she had given up, and scrolled
down the screen with her index finger. I was a little surprised when she
pointed to a modest one-piece bathing suit with little exposure and said,
"You should get one like this.

"You like this kind of thing, Saku-chan?　That's unexpected.

No, if you're asking me if I like it or not, I like it. It's erotic. That's
obvious.

　Saku-chan's forefinger was pointing at a sexy black triangle bikini.

The bikini is quite small and the side of the bottom is made of strings. I
think it would take a lot of courage to wear this. Saku-chan likes this
kind of thing. He's a ……boy.……

That's so sexy.
"Don't do this kind of thing. Yuzu is not ready for a bikini.

　I puffed up my cheeks when Saku-chan said so clearly. I knew that

Saku-chan was still treating me like a child. I'll buy a cute bikini for
sure," I thought to myself.

　It was the first time I had been to the fashion building in the
downtown area since Saku and I came here for shopping together. I
thought I might be able to get there without getting lost since it was
the second time, but I ended up taking the wrong turn at the ticket
gate and had a hard time meeting up with Mayu. It seemed that Mayu
was a frequent visitor to this area, and she came to pick me up as soon
as I was alone and confused.
　As I followed Mayu, who walked without hesitation, I felt sad that I
really can't do anything by myself. I slapped my cheeks with both
hands, thinking that I should be more firm. It's not always possible for
Saku-chan to stay by my side forever.
　Inside the fashion building, there was a limited time swimwear store.
I was overwhelmed by the variety of colors and shapes of the swimsuits
on display.

"Lots of swimsuits.
"That's right, of course. Yuzu, which one do you want?
"I'll wear a bikini!……

　When I replied with gusto, Mayu rolled her eyes and said, "Oh, that's
unexpected.

With Yuzu, I thought you'd go for something less revealing.

Saku-chan said you like bikinis.……
"Takatsuji Ann's Mutsuri Skeletons.

　Marayu's face twisted in annoyance, and she clicked her tongue. It

seems that Mayu hates Saku-chan. I hurriedly followed up with her.

"But he told me to wear something more modest and less revealing.

She said I wasn't ready for a bikini.
"What?　How long is he really going to act like a guardian?

　I tried to follow her, but Mayu raised her eyebrows even more. She
folded her arms with a disgruntled expression, her shoulders heaving
with anger. I patted her on the back to appease her.

I don't think I can blame Saku-chan for not seeing me as a girl. I don't
think I can blame her for not seeing me as a girl, because I've been
with her since I was born. But this summer, I want to do my best to
make her see me as a girl.

　As I clenched my fists in front of my chest, Mayu shrugged her

shoulders.

I can't help it. I don't like Takatsuji to death, but if the lovely Yuzu says
so, I'll support her.
"Thank you, Mayu.
In the meantime, I'm going to buy a really cute bathing suit that will
make that mutsuri skeleton swoon!
"Uh-huh.

　We put on our best effort and started looking at the swimsuits
hanging on the racks. Perhaps it was because we were giving off such a
serious aura, but even the clerks kept their distance and didn't
approach us.
Yuzu, how about this?

　Mayu then handed me a high neck bikini. It showed her navel, but it
was modestly revealing, and it came with a pareo, so she might not be
that embarrassed.
　I was a little troubled, but I took the swimsuit and went into the
fitting room. I took off my clothes and changed, and checked my
reflection in the full-length mirror. The swimsuit was cute, but it was a
little tight around my chest. I peeked out from the fitting room curtain
and beckoned to Mayu, who was waiting for me.

"Mayu, your breasts are too tight.

　My height didn't increase much, but for some reason, my breasts
started to grow rapidly around the time I entered the second year of
junior high school. It's not so noticeable when I'm wearing a school
uniform, and I don't usually pay much attention to it, but it's a shame
that I can't wear cute swimsuits. Speaking of which, I don't think there
are many cute underwear designs available in large sizes.
　Mayu said no, "I'm sorry," and then opened the curtain of the fitting
room. She glanced at me wearing a high neck bikini and folded her
arms with a hmmm.

Yuzu is actually really stylish, isn't ……she?

"Oh, yeah?
"She's thin, but her breasts are big, and her waist is curvy. You look
soft all around.

　I felt a little embarrassed at the direct compliment. I'm small and

hunched over, so I rarely get compliments on my style. When I was
embarrassed, Mayu pushed a halter-neck bikini against me.
Okay, this is next.

　At Mayu's request, I closed the curtain again and changed into a
halter-neck bikini. The bikini was cute, with a flowery frill around the
bust, but it also showed a lot of cleavage, making it quite sexy. When I
showed my face, Mayu opened the curtain again.

"Yeah, it's good!　You're so cute!

I'm a little embarrassed.　I'm a little embarrassed that my breasts are
showing.
'That's not vulgar at all, and I think you'll be fine. It looks good on you!
"……think you can annoy Saku-chan?
You can do it. There's not a man in the world who wouldn't respond to
this.

　I looked at Mayu, who nodded vigorously, and made up my mind. I

don't think I can kill Saku-chan that easily, but I can only hope that the
summer heat will cause her to lose some of her normal judgment.

I'm not sure what to make of it.……

Yeah, I doubt it.
I think I know the real reason why Takatsuji told Yuzu not to expose
herself.
What?
"Well, I don't like Takatsuji, so I won't say it.

　She cowered and smiled a bit wickedly at me. I'm not sure why, but
I'm sure it's because I've never seen anything like it.

Demons of Summer 1)
Hello, Saku.
　It's been a week since the summer vacation started. I'm sitting in my
air-conditioned room, spending my time in vain, when suddenly Yuzu
arrives. My father was at work, my mother was out shopping, and my
younger brother was at his club activities, so I was the only one in the
house.
　Yuzu, her fluffy hair tucked behind her head, strolls into my room and
plops down on my bed. It's not too messy, and there's nothing in there
that Yuzu would want her to see (or find easily), but it makes me feel
uncomfortable.
　Pointing to a plastic sports drink bottle on the table, Yuzu said, "Give
me a sip. I silently handed the bottle to Yuzu. It was the one I had been
slurping down earlier, and Yuzu sipped it without hesitation. Her white
throat twitched, and I pulled my gaze away from it. After carefully
closing the cap of the plastic bottle, Yuzu smiled and said.

"Hey, Saku-chan, let's go to the beach together.

No.

　I answered immediately with a reluctant expression on my face. No

matter how cute Yuzu's request is, I can't accept everything
unconditionally.
　Yuzu lowered her eyebrows sadly and tilted her head, "Why? She
tilted her head.

The ocean is too dangerous in so many ways.

　The closest beach to our house is about an hour's train ride away, but
it's a famous pick-up spot around here. There was no way I could take
Yuzu in her swimsuit to such a place. Besides, Yuzu is a bit of a
hunchback, so she might accidentally get kidnapped by the waves and
drown.
And the river?
"Don't underestimate the river. How many people do you think die in
the river every year? Put on a life jacket if you must.
"Hmm, I bought a cute bathing suit...

　Yuzu pursed her lips in disapproval. I've been wanting to buy a

swimsuit since before the summer break, but you ended up buying
one? This is a great way to make sure that you get the most out of your
time with your family.

"Well, let's go to the pool. It's a little far, but there's a new pool in
Sakuragaseki Park, right? I heard they have a big water slide there.

　When Yuzu continued to insist, I pondered. Most of the people there

would be families, and there would be few people trying to pick up girls.
It's a place where even a canine like Yuzu could have a good time.
　I thought about it for a while and then said, "Okay. I want to listen to
Yuzu's request as much as I can. And if I'm being honest, it's not like I
didn't want to see Yuzu in her swimsuit.

　The next day, Yuzu and I woke up early and took two trains to a
swimming pool outside the city.
　When I got off the train and exited the ticket gate, the searing sun
was beating down on me relentlessly. The heat rising from the asphalt
clung to my body, and sweat began to trickle down my forehead. It's
only a short walk from the nearest station to my destination, but I've
already lost a lot of energy. Yuzu, who was walking next to me, looked
a little limp from the heat. Yuzu is smaller than me, so she might feel
hotter because she's closer to the heated ground.
　I took off the cap I was wearing and plopped it on Yuzu's little head.
It may be a comfort, but it's better than nothing. Yuzu looked up and
smiled, "Thank you. I grasped her soft, feverish hand and walked over
to her, pulling her along with me.
　The summer-only water park, located in the corner of a huge park,
was packed with people. We thought we were there to cool off, but it
was almost too hot. I bought a ticket for the two of us and went inside.
I took Yuzu to the front of the changing room and promised to meet her
when we got out.
　I quickly changed into my swimsuit and threw a hoodie over it, and
waited for Yuzu by the exit of the women's changing room. I could see
men who looked like me standing around aimlessly, probably waiting for
their lovers or family members.
　I hadn't been shown what kind of swimsuit Yuzu had bought by the
way. She's a shy and reserved girl, so I don't think she'd choose
something too revealing.

"Hey, Saku-chan. Here you go.

　When I saw Yuzu rushing towards me, I completely froze.

　Contrary to my expectations, Yuzu's swimsuit was a very revealing
bikini. You can see her cleavage through the floral frills that cover her
chest, and her breasts sway as she runs. The small navel in the center
of her belly, her slim waist, and her soft thighs with just the right
amount of flesh were all exposed.
　I was about to say, "Let's go home right now. If I said that now, it
would probably make Yuzu sad. I don't want to do that. I finally came
to my senses, shook my head and faced Yuzu in her swimsuit. It's not a
summer illusion, but the Yuzu in front of me was really wearing a bikini.

Is that the new one?

"Uh, yeah. Is that weird?
I told you to get something less revealing.
"……Doesn't it look good on me?　Am I not pretty enough?

　Yuzu looked down, unsure of herself. I averted my eyes from her

chest, which was almost falling out, and finally managed to reply, "It
……looks good on you.
　If you ask me if she is cute or not, she is definitely cute. My childhood
friend is definitely the cutest girl in the world. However, in this reason-
depriving heat, it's too much--too much stimulation. I could feel my
head getting dizzy under the blazing, vicious sun. The thought of who I
was going to show it to made me even more angry.

"……Saku-chan, can you put some sunscreen on me?　I put it on my

arms and stuff, but it doesn't reach my back.

　Yuzu pulled me by the hand to the parasol and took out a sunscreen
from her transparent beach bag. She handed it to me, and I reflexively
took it. Yuzu turned her back to me unprotected.
　Her body is completely different from mine, fluffy, soft and round. It
was a stark reminder that she was a different creature than I was.
　Her semi-long hair is tied up in a ponytail, and the nape of her neck,
slightly sweaty and white, is right in front of her. This is a great way to
make sure that you get the most out of your time with us. In fact, I'm
not sure if I've grown up at all.

Saku-chan, please.

　I made up my mind. Yuzu is asking me for help with pure intentions,

and I must not have any strange ulterior motives.
　I put some sunscreen on my palm and fearfully touched Yuzu's back.
Her smooth skin was much softer than I had imagined. The string tied
at the back of her neck seemed like it could easily come undone with a
light tug. As I apply the sunscreen evenly from my shoulders to my
waist, Yuzu wriggles and says, "That tickles. The sweetness of her voice
reminded me of something else, and I hurriedly thought of her mother's
face to calm myself down. In addition, I also remembered Yuzu's
mother's face. It's a good idea to have a good idea of what's going on
in your life.

……"Yes, I got it.

Thank you.

　I handed Yuzu the sunscreen and let out a small sigh. She asked me
if I wanted to put some on Saku-chan too, but I politely declined. It's
not a good idea to have Yuzu touching you right now.

Come on, Saku-chan.

　Yuzu then hugged me innocently in my arms. If she was wearing her

usual school uniform, it would not be good for her to do that in her
swimsuit. The soft bulge pressed against me, and the blood rushed to
my supposedly cold head again. The blood is probably concentrated in
other parts of my body as well. I hurriedly pulled Yuzu off of me.

"No, I'm sorry. Hold on.

　I had to think of my mother's face one more time before I could stand
up, as I was unable to move for various reasons.

Demons of Summer (2)

　It was probably in the summer of my second year of junior high
school that I first became aware that Yuzu was a "girl.
　When I was in junior high school, we had a swimming class for PE in
the summer. I was in the same class as Yuzu at the time, so I asked
her if I could teach her how to swim. At the time, I was in the same
class as Yuzu, so I said to her, "I'll teach you how to swim.

I'm glad you're here, Saku-chan, but I really don't like being in the pool
with the boys.
"Why?
"Boys are always staring at me in a weird way.

　Yuzu then sighed gloomily. At that time, I couldn't understand the

meaning of Yuzu's words, so I silently tilted my head.
　Naturally, when it came to swimming class, both boys and girls had to
wear school swimsuits. The guys in the class were gossiping about who
had the bigger breasts, while stealing glances at the girls in their
swimsuits. I vaguely listened to them as if they were someone else's
problem, but what I overheard was an unexpected name.

"Hasumi, you have surprisingly large breasts for a short guy.

　I was shocked to see that Yuzu had never been the subject of such a
discussion before. I looked at Yuzu on the other side of the pool and she
smiled and waved at me.
　Her breasts, which used to be flat, had somehow become fuller and
fuller. It's hard to tell when she's wearing a uniform, but it's noticeable
when she's wearing a swimsuit. Her classmates would look at her and
say obscene things like this and that.
　I was astonished. Little Yuzu, who had always been made to cry by
me, was being sexually gazed at by a male classmate.
　The next thing I knew, I had kicked the two guys I was whispering
about into the pool together. The teacher scolded me severely, but I
didn't make any excuses. The guy who got kicked off didn't say
anything either, so it was just a minor altercation between two boys.
Yuzu also asked me why, but I never said anything.
　The reason I was so angry with them was because I realized that I, of
all people, had similar desires lurking within me.
　That night, Yuzu appeared in a dream that I could not tell others
about. In the dream, the Yuzu I knew so well had the face of a woman
I didn't know. The next morning, I couldn't look at Yuzu's face properly.
　The cute little Yuzu trusts me with all her heart. She probably never
imagined that I had a strange desire for Yuzu. I'm a man just like them
when I peel back my skin. I don't want Yuzu to know that I'm like that.

"Saku-chan, hurry up, hurry up.

　Yuzu, her ponytail swinging, was more excited than usual, pulling my
hand with a big smile on her face. She was more excited than usual,
and was pulling me along with a big smile on her face. As soon as I
called out to her, "Don't fall," she slipped, and I rushed to support her.

Hey, you!　Seriously, don't get hurt.

"Uh, yeah, thanks.

　In my arms, Yuzu turned over with her cheeks dyed. I grasped Yuzu's
hand tightly and started walking, watching my step.
　I was expecting to see only families, but surprisingly there were many
young people of my generation. I noticed a group of four mischievous-
looking boys giving Yuzu a condescending look, so I hid her behind my
back and glared at her. This is why I did not want Yuzu to wear a
revealing swimsuit.
　I'm aware that I've become increasingly overprotective of Yuzu since
the summer of my eighth grade year. If someone makes fun of Yuzu's
style, she will be punished mercilessly. Once Yuzu encountered a
pervert, she began to walk to and from school with him every day. I
couldn't forgive those who looked at Yuzu in a sexual way. I'm sure
you'll be able to understand what I'm talking about.
　I jumped into the water with a splash and found it to be much
warmer than I had expected. When Yuzu followed me into the pool with
her floatation ring, there was a smaller splash than mine. I was a little
relieved when I could no longer see Yuzu's body.

I'm lukewarm.

　Yuzu, who seemed to have the same impression as I did, smiled as

she floated in the water. I remember when I was little, we had a small
plastic pool in our yard and Yuzu and I would play in it together. Back
then, I used to make her cry by splashing water on her face when she
didn't want to. Ever since then, Yuzu has been reluctant to put her face
in the water. ……Maybe it's my fault that Yuzu can't swim even now.

"Yeah.

　As if to splash away my guilt, Yuzu splashed me with water. It's a

good idea to have a good idea of what you're looking for.

"Son of a bitch. I'm going to sink you.

"Yikes!

　I'm sure that Yuzu knows that I'm not serious when I say that she
sounds happy. I'm sure she knows that I'm not serious. I can't do
anything that Yuzu doesn't like, even a little bit.
　Yuzu's hand brushed up my bangs, which were wet and stuck to my
forehead. The thick bangs of Yuzu, which are not wet at all, hide the
scars I left behind nicely.
　The waterslide, the main attraction of the water park, was worth
waiting in line for and was a lot of fun. Yuzu said, "It was scary," but
she seemed to be okay with it. I went up to the poolside and grabbed
Yuzu by the arm and pulled her up.

"That was so much fun!　Yuzu, let's go again!

"Wait, wait, let's take a break.

　When I saw Yuzu wobbling, I came to my senses. Oh, no! I was so

excited that I didn't even think about Yuzu. I took Yuzu to the bench
under the parasol and sat her down.

You want some ice cream?

"Eat.
I'm going to get some. Don't move from here.

　Yuzu shook her head honestly. The angle from above emphasized her
cleavage and made her look even worse. I took my hoodie that I had
left on the bench, put it on Yuzu, and pulled the zipper up to the top.
Okay, this should be fine.
　I went to the store and bought two soft-serve ice creams. I thought
Yuzu would choose the chocolate flavor, but I decided to get the vanilla
flavor just in case. If Yuzu didn't choose the vanilla flavor, I could eat
the one she did.
　As she hurried back to Yuzu's place, she was approached by some
guy in a swimsuit. Yuzu's eyes swam in annoyance as she clutched the
hem of her hoodie. I'm not sure what to make of this.
　I clicked my tongue and walked over to the man. I grabbed him by
the shoulders and intimidated him in the lowest voice possible.

Hey, can I help you?……

　When I saw the face of the man who turned around, I exclaimed,
"Oh! It was my classmate Shirakawa, who had been talking to Yuzu.
Shirakawa didn't seem particularly surprised and raised one hand in a
nonchalant manner, saying, "Yo.

I knew Takatsuji was with you.

Why are you picking on Yuzu?
I didn't pick you up!　I saw a face I knew, so I just talked to her!　Hey,
Hasumi-san.
"Uh-huh.

　Yuzu blinked anxiously and looked at me as if asking for help. Yuzu is

generally uncomfortable with boys other than me (with the exception of
the prince, apparently). I forcefully intervene between Shirakawa and
Yuzu.

Shirakawa, what are you doing here?

"I'm here to hang out with the guys from my class. Takatsuji, have you
seen our class line?

　I think that topic had come up before the summer vacation. I had
already read it, but since I wasn't interested in it, I didn't respond to it.
As I was replying, something hugged me from behind.

"Takatsuji-kun!　You're here!

　I turned around in surprise to see Mitsuhashi in a black bikini hugging

me. He wrapped his arms around my waist and leaned in unreservedly.
　Mitsuhashi was as stylish as Yuzu, and it's not that he wasn't happy
to be hugged by a girl in a revealing swimsuit. But it's not a sight I
want Yuzu to see. When I gently pulled her off, Mitsuhashi puffed out
her cheeks in frustration.
"……Ah. My childhood friend is also with you. Hmm.
"Hi, there.

　Yuzu bowed her head, and Mihashi returned the greeting with a
"hello. The moment their gazes met, I felt a spark fly off. There was a
strange atmosphere in the air. It seems that Mitsuhashi has a liking for
me, but I don't want Yuzu to be exposed to any strange sparks.

"Hey, Takatsuji-kun, since we're here, let's ride the water slide
together!

　Mihashi then leaned into my arms as if he was trying to be sweet.

Shirakawa snatched the soft-serve ice cream out of my hand and sat
down next to Yuzu.

"Why don't you go and do it?　I'll keep an eye on Hasumi-san for you.

　When I looked at Yuzu without thinking, she was looking up at me

with a tense expression. I'm sure the shy Yuzu wouldn't mind being
alone with a man she barely knew. It's a good idea to have a good idea
of what you're looking for.

"Move, Shirakawa. That's my spot.

I was trying to deepen my friendship with Yuzu...
"Who gave you permission to call me by my name? Also, I want my ice
cream back.

　I took the soft-serve ice cream back from Shirakawa's hand and
shooed him away. I took the soft-serve ice cream from his hand and
shooed him away. Mihashi glared lightly at Yuzu, then said, "See you
later," and left.
Yuzu, do you want vanilla or chocolate?
I want chocolate.……Hey Saku-chan, did you have to go?

　Yuzu, who had chosen the chocolate flavor as expected, asked me

timidly. I answered as I handed Yuzu the soft serve ice cream.

It's okay. I'm here to play with Yuzu today.

I'm sorry.

　Yuzu lowered her eyebrows in shame, but the truth is that I just
wanted to be here. I don't want any other man to see Yuzu in her
swimsuit. It's a good thing I put her in a hoodie, I think.
　Yuzu licked the soft-serve ice cream with her red tongue and smiled,
"It's sweet and delicious. I looked at her sideways. The white thighs
peeking out from underneath the hoodie that was covering her body
lines were strangely erotic. The more hidden, the more it reminds me of
what's underneath and arouses my imagination.
　 I retract my previous statement. Maybe it was a mistake to put him
in a hoodie after all.
　I was biting into a slightly melted soft-serve ice cream and wondering
if I could somehow erase Shirakawa's memory legally.

I want you to let me protect you

closest.
　It was around 20 o'clock and the sun had already set, but the asphalt
was still hot and muggy from the mid-summer sun that I had soaked up
during the day. My body, which had just gotten off the air-conditioned
train, immediately began to sweat.
　It was the summer vacation of my first year of high school. I don't
have many friends and I don't do any club activities, so I've been
staying indoors all the time, but today, unusually, I went to a sweets
buffet with the girls in my class. Knowing that I like sweets, Ritsu-chan
invited me. It's been a long time since I've gone out with friends other
than Mayu, so I was nervous but I had fun.
　As I exited the ticket gate, the smart phone in my right hand
trembled briefly. After moving out of the way, I stopped to look at it
and saw that I had received several messages. The members were the
four girls I had met today. My face broke into tears as I read the
messages that said, "It was fun, let's go again," and, "Hasumi-san eats
surprisingly well, so it was interesting. I'll wait until I get home to reply.
　The curfew at my house is 20 o'clock, but I asked my mother to allow
me to go home early today. I thought it would be better to go home
early, so I walked quickly.
　The area in front of the station, where there is a large supermarket, is
bright and bustling, but the residential area a short distance away is
quite quiet. The light from the streetlights illuminated my feet
unreliably. As I walked along, clicking my heels on my sandals, I
suddenly felt an unpleasant presence behind me. I felt a gaze that
seemed to cling to my body. I furtively turned around to look, but there
was no one in my line of vision. I wondered if it was my imagination,
and started walking again.
　I can hear the sound of bicycle wheels turning. It's coming from
behind me, but it's not overtaking me at all. It's like they're following
me at the same speed as I'm walking, keeping a constant distance.
Even though it was a hot night, I felt a shiver run down my spine.
　I pretended to look at my smartphone and stopped under a relatively
bright streetlight. I thought he would pass me if it was just my
imagination, but the sound of his wheels stopped. I was too scared to
turn around. I launched the app and was about to call Saku-chan when
I suddenly remembered.
　When I was in junior high school, I once encountered a pervert on my
way home from cram school. A man wearing a long black coat opened
it up in front of me. He had nothing on underneath, and his lower half
was exposed. I cried out and managed to escape from the scene and
went to Saku-chan's place at once.
　Saku-chan's complexion instantly changed as she reported the
situation in tears. She looked scarier than I had ever seen her before
and moaned, "I want to kill him. From that day on, Saku-chan became
more and more anxious and started to pick me up and drop me off
every day.
　 ……I don't know how much longer I'm going to rely on you, Saku-
chan. I can't do anything on my own, and Saku-chan is always
protecting me. Is it really okay to stay like this? Will Saku-chan like me
if I'm so unreliable?
　I can't keep relying on you, Saku-chan. I have to do something on my
own.
　I put away my smartphone and ran out of the house. If I ran home, I
would be home in less than five minutes. The sound of the wheels
turning again echoed eerily, getting louder and louder. That's when I
knew I was closing the distance.

"Oh, yuzu?

　A figure walking from the front called out to me. Thinking it was
Saku-chan's voice, I patted my chest in relief. I ran up to her and
hugged her without thinking. When I looked up and saw her face
illuminated by the streetlight, I let out a gasp.

おう
「お、 旺 くん」

おうたろう
　そこにいたのは朔ちゃんではなく、朔ちゃんの弟の 旺太郎 くんだった。
ふたつ歳下の中学二年生で、わたしは彼のことをまるで本当の弟のように思っ
ている。旺くんの方がわたしのことを姉扱いしているかは、甚だ疑問なところ
だけれど。
I'm sorry. I mistook you for Saku.

　I hurriedly jumped out of the way. I jumped out of the way. Want-
kun didn't change his color and said, "It's okay. You're lucky you got hit
by a boob," he said briskly. I think he used to be more pure and cute a
few years ago, but he seems to have been completely poisoned since
he became a junior high school student.
　She has grown taller in the short time I have not seen her, and she
looks more and more like Saku-chan. He seems to be a member of the
swimming club and has a healthy tan. As I was talking with Want-kun,
the presence behind me disappeared before I knew it.

Want, where are you going at this hour?

"I'm going to the convenience store to buy ice cream. I want to eat a
gutsy chocolate mint.

　Want-kun looked into my face and asked, "Yuzu, why were you in
such a hurry earlier? He asked. I was a little troubled, but I answered
honestly.

I don't know if it's just my imagination, but I feel like there's a strange
person following me…….
Seriously?　Yuzu, you seem to be popular with perverts.

　That's a terrible thing to say. As I puffed out my cheeks, Want-kun

turned on his heel and started walking away. I hurried after him and
asked, "Aren't you going to the convenience store? I called out to him.

I'll send Yuzu first.

"Oh, thank you. Sorry.
If I leave Yuzu alone, Sakutaro is going to beat me up.
　Want used to follow Saku-chan around saying, "Big brother, big
brother," but about three years ago, he started to call Saku-chan
"Sakutaro," as if he was in a rebellious phase. By the way, I've been
called "Yuzu" ever since I was a child. Maybe they don't think I'm older
than they are.

Sakutaro, you really like Yuzu, don't you?

That's not true. Saku-chan, he's just worried about me.
"But Yuzu likes Sakutaro, right?

　He guessed exactly how I felt, and I panicked. Seeing me like that,
Want-kun smiled and said, "It's easy to understand.

Well, don't tell Saku-chan.

"I won't say it. It's weird to talk about love with your siblings.

　I was relieved to hear Want-kun's answer. If Saku-chan finds out

about my love for her, she will probably accept me regardless of her
feelings for me. Until the day Saku-chan falls in love with me, my
feelings will remain a secret.

Why don't you just let her touch your tits?

"Oh, Want, where do you learn to do that?
"He's definitely muscular. He'll be fine if you push him.

　I'm not sure if that's what my younger brother, Want, is ……trying to

tell me. The bikini strategy didn't seem to make that much of a
difference, but I guess I should try a little harder.

And Sakutaro likes big loli tits.

"Rollin' in?
　As I was talking with Want-kun, I arrived in front of the house. It was
a little scary, but I was relieved to get home safely. I thanked Want-kun
again and went inside the house.

　Lying on the sofa in the living room, I stared blankly at the TV, which
had been left on. My mother said that she had a bad headache and
went to bed early. She doesn't seem to be feeling well these days, is it
summer fatigue?
　I was so taken in by the idea of the "Convenience Store Ice Cream
Election" program that was being broadcast in real time that I really
wanted to eat a strawberry gelato bar right now. It was the one that
Yuzu had once recommended as the best.
　It was already twenty minutes ago that my brother, who lost in a
rock-paper-scissors game, went to the convenience store to buy ice
cream. It's a five-minute walk from our house to the nearest
convenience store, but I wonder if he's taking a detour somewhere. As I
was getting annoyed with her for being late, a cheerful voice came from
the front door saying, "I'm home.

What took you so long?　My strawberry gelato bar!

"Yes, yes, I got it.

　Wantaro took out an ice cream from a convenience store bag and
tossed it to me. I caught it while lying down, peeled off the bag and bit
into the gelato.

Did you stop somewhere?

I met Yuzu on the way to the convenience store, so I gave her a ride
home.
To yuzu?

　I frowned. By the way, she said she was going out with her
classmates today. She seemed to be very excited about eating a lot of
cake, but I wondered if she was out until this time of night.
　Sitting on a dining room chair, Wantaro scooped chocolate mint ice
cream with a spoon as he continued.

He said he was being followed from the station by some strange guy.
What?

　I jumped up from the sofa as if I had been jolted by Wantaro's words.

I jumped up from the sofa as if I had been hit by something. Despite
my upset, he was eating ice cream with a cool face.

"What the hell is that? Was it okay?

I drove her home like a normal person. He was scared, but he seemed
to be okay.

　In my mind's eye, I saw Yuzu's face as she cried out when she
encountered the maniac. I clenched my fists as the anger of that day
came back to me, as if my guts were boiling over.
　I was grateful that Wantaro happened to be there this time, but I
truly regretted that I could not be there. If only he had called me, I
would have flown right over. I checked my phone as if it was too late,
but there was no contact from Yuzu.
　I'm almost angry that she didn't call me right away. I always want to
be the closest to Yuzu and protect her. I know that this is just my ego.
　In the not-too-distant future, when someone comes along who can
protect Yuzu the closest, will I be able to honestly give up my role?
I've not seen her in a while, but Yuzu's breasts have gotten bigger. It's
no wonder perverts are after her.
……"Where are you looking, you little porno?

　I glared at Wantaro as he said this, but I think I'm on the same level
as him, as his words accidentally reminded me of Yuzu in her swimsuit.
I'm not sure what to make of this, but I'm sure it's a good idea.
　I couldn't even taste the strawberry gelato bar that Yuzu had
recommended.

Crisis management skills of a

childhood friend
　It was the first time since the beginning of summer vacation that I
stepped into Yuzu's room, which I see through the window every
morning.
　The scent that softly tickled my nose was unusually sweet, and I
thought pervertedly that it smelled like yuzu. In fact, Yuzu is not a very
meticulous person, and I think the room was more messy when I came
here before, but I guess she cleaned it, and the room was clean and
tidy.

"Sit down, Saku-chan. I'll get you a snack.

　Yuzu sat me down on the bed and walked down the stairs with a light
pattering sound. The only sound in the quiet room was that of the air
conditioner running.
　It was the middle of August, and the summer vacation was coming to
an end. I was not involved in any club activities, so I spent my time
doing some part-time jobs, going out with friends, and occasionally
taking care of Yuzu. Yuzu also seemed to have gone out with her
classmates, and she showed me a picture saying, "It was fun. I was a
little relieved to see that there was no man in sight. Apparently, Yuzu
hadn't seen Prince Asahina since the start of the summer vacation.
　It seems that Yuzu had just realized that there would be an exam
after the break, and now she cried out to me, "Saku-chan, let's study
together. I had been taking it easy because of the good results of the
exams at the end of the first semester, but I had no choice if Yuzu
asked me to. I did my homework and came to Yuzu's room.
　Suddenly, I found the stuffed animal I had taken from him lying on
the bed. I grabbed its head and lifted it up, but as usual, its face was
deflated and I couldn't understand what was so cute about it. The big
eyes were also eerie.
　I wonder if Yuzu sleeps with it every night since it's here. I
remembered Yuzu's words, "I'll take good care of it as if it were Saku-
chan. A strange sweat ran down my back as I accidentally imagined
something strange. I gently put the stuffed animal back in its original
position.

Here you go.

　When Yuzu came back to the room, she placed the tray on the table
with a dangerous hand. On the tray was a glass of tea and a dorayaki. I
heard that the dorayaki here are delicious," Yuzu said in a good mood. I
was suddenly thirsty, so I hurriedly poured myself a cup of cold barley
tea.
　 Why do I have to be so nervous to come to my childhood friend's
room? You've been here many times before, haven't you?
　Ever since that day we went to the pool together, I've been out of
sorts. I should never have had any strange feelings for Yuzu.
　Yuzu, eating a dorayaki with both hands, said, "Delicious! She smiled
happily. I love Yuzu's face when she's eating something sweet, but on
this particular day, she was so innocent that I felt even more guilty.
It's really good. The sweet red bean paste is rich and the dough is
fluffy. You should try it too, Saku-chan!
"If it's so good, why don't you have some for me?
"Huh?　Saku-chan, you used to take snacks for me too.……
Hey, when are you talking about?

　I scratched my head as I dug up my black history. In the past, I was

a very bad boy who took pleasure in bullying Yuzu and making her cry.
There were more than a few times when I took away her snacks just to
see her cry. I wanted to punch myself in the face for being so cynical
back then.

I'm sorry about that…….

　In many ways, I've done more for Yuzu than I can ever make up for.
I will do whatever it takes to make her happy. I don't want anything
more than that.
　Yuzu suddenly stood up and plopped down next to me. As the sweet
scent of her fluffy hair drifted away, I realized how bad the situation
was. Yuzu's mother was downstairs, but it was a closed room, just the
two of us, sitting on the bed side by side.
　I tried to stand up, but Yuzu grabbed my arm and asked, "Why are
you running away? She looked at me sadly. I have a weakness for that
face. I forced myself to pull my gaze away and let out a deep sigh.

Yuzu.…… You should have a little more of a sense of urgency about this
situation.
"A sense of urgency?
You're not supposed to be alone in a room with a man, sitting side by
side on his bed.
Even if it's Saku-chan?……
　Yuzu looked into my face. Her large, clear, marble-like eyes showed
no hint of alarm. They are eyes that trust me from the bottom of their
hearts and make me feel completely at ease.

You got followed by some creep the other day.

Did Want-kun tell you?……

　Yuzu lowered her eyes awkwardly. I'm not sure what to make of it,
but I'm sure it's a good idea.
　Why didn't he say anything to me? When I was in junior high school,
she would have come running to me at once. I bit my lower lip loosely,
unable to vent my ego-driven anger.

I didn't feel a thing. It could have been my imagination.

It's too late for that.
No man would ever want to do anything to me.

　My frustration with Yuzu's lack of sense of urgency grew. Yuzu

doesn't know what's going on. A feeling akin to anger began to smolder
in the pit of my stomach as if it were burning.

Do you have any idea what's going on right now?

Yeah.

　I pressed Yuzu's shoulder lightly. With very little effort, her slender
body sank into the bed with ease. Her fluffy, frizzy hair spread out on
the sheets. I grabbed her slender wrist and sewed it shut, and saw
Yuzu looking up at me, her mouth hanging open in dismay. I put my
lips to her ear and said, "I don't know what's going on. I put my lips to
her ear and whispered in a quiet voice.

This is the situation…….

　At that moment, her white cheeks turned bright red and her peach-
colored lips quivered. Her eyes were wide open, and they were shaking
with a color that I couldn't tell whether it was nervousness or fear. I
took a small gulp of air as my normally repressed feelings of torment
began to rise to the surface.
　Her thick bangs were slightly disheveled, and the scar on her
forehead, usually hidden, was peeking out slightly. It was the scar I had
left on Yuzu, a scar that has yet to disappear. The moment I saw it, I
finally came to my senses. It's a good idea to have a good idea of what
you're doing.

"……understand?　Men are creatures that think about these things all

the time.

　I admonished her, but she remained lying on the bed and did not
move. Perhaps she was in shock. I felt sorry for her.

"I'm sorry. I overdid it.

　When I looked into Yuzu's face and apologized, she looked into the
distance with a dazed look in her eyes as if she had fallen asleep. After
a while, she called my name "Saku-chan" in a faint voice.

Saku-chan is a boy, right……?

　I nodded "yes" to Yuzu's words. Yuzu was looking up at me with an

anxious expression.

"Do you want to do that to me, Saku-chan?

　My heart surged violently as I felt as if I had been told of the ugly
greed in the pit of my stomach.
　In my mind, Yuzu crying because her snack was taken away, Yuzu
crying because she wanted to be with Saku-chan, Yuzu crying because
she encountered a pervert, and so on. Feeling my throat dry up, I
slowly opened my mouth.

I..……. I'm the only one who would never do something like that to
Yuzu.

　What I need to do is to atone for my sins against Yuzu. There is no

way I'm going to give Yuzu the same ugly lust that other men have.
I've decided that I'm going to spend the rest of my life protecting the
most important girl in the world.

……"Yeah. I know.

　She nodded her head, but her face was as tense as a doll's, and I
couldn't read any emotion in it. You'll be able to find a lot more than
just a few of these in the marketplace.

What are you looking for?

　The gray clouds covering the sky above us were thick, and it looked
like it was about to start raining. Even though it is September, the
lingering heat is still severe, and although yesterday it was as hot as
mid-summer, today the temperature has dropped considerably. It was
nice to be cool, but the air was damp and cloudy, and I felt depressed.
　The summer vacation is over and the second semester has begun.
The relationship between Saku and I is still the same, and he still cares
for me as much as I care for him. I am painfully aware that the reason
for this is nothing more than guilt. I sighed, "I was supposed to make
him think of me as a girl during the summer vacation.
　--Did you understand?　Men are creatures who think about these
things all the time.

　That day when Saku-chan came to my room. I was pushed down on

the bed and Saku-chan was looking down at me with the face of a man
I didn't know. The pressure on my wrists was so strong that I couldn't
even move. I was a little scared, but I didn't mind at all. I'm not very
good with men, but I'm sure I can accept whatever Saku-chan does to
me. That's what I thought from the bottom of my heart.

　I'm the only one who would never do something like that to Yuzu.

　Saku-chan's words stabbed me in the heart. I knew that he didn't see

me as a girl, and I felt that he had declared that he never intended to
see me as a girl.
　 I probably want to do "that" to Saku-chan.
　I felt so ashamed and embarrassed that I wanted to cry. I held my
head in my hands and flinched on the spot. Fortunately, there was no
one else around.
　Saku-chan said she had another committee meeting today, but I told
her to wait until it was over. The sports committee to which Saku-chan
belongs isn't usually that busy, but it seems to be busy this time of year
with the sports festival just around the corner.
　As usual, I came to the courtyard to kill some time, but at an
inopportune moment, drops of rain started to fall. Just as I was about
to turn back, I stopped dead in my tracks.
　Despite the light rain, the person was in the courtyard without an
umbrella. She was incredibly beautiful, like a goddess statue made of
crystal. She was Asahina-kun's childhood friend and love interest, and
her name was Hanashi-senpai (I can't remember her last name).
　She got down on both knees and rustled through the azalea plants,
not caring that her sailor suit skirt was dirty. I wondered if she was
looking for something or someone.
　Saku-chan had told me that it would rain today, so I had a folding
umbrella in my bag. I took out the umbrella and ran up to Hanashi.

"Oh, um, you're getting wet.

　As I held the umbrella up to Hanashi, I called out to her in a quiet,

stuttering voice. For someone like me who is so shy, I must have
shown a lot of courage.
　Hanashi slowly raised her head and looked at me. Her large eyes,
framed by her long eyelashes, blinked. When you look at her up close,
she's so beautiful that you almost fall over. I couldn't stop shaking for
no reason at all.

"……Who?
I'm Yuzu Hasumi from class 4, year 1, sorry.

　Overwhelmed by the aura of a beautiful woman, I apologized to her

even though it was not my fault. With no expression on her face,
Hanashi said, "Thank you for the umbrella. I nodded my head, unable
to speak.

"……know Heki?
"Aoi, is that you, Asahina-kun?
I've seen you with him.
Oh, yes.

　When I nodded, Hanashi said, "I'm not Heki's girlfriend," even though
I hadn't asked her anything. When I replied, "Yes, I know," she lowered
her eyes, looking somewhat apologetic.
I'm sorry……. I thought you were another Heki fan.

　Hanashi-senpai turned to the planting and now began to peek at the

base of the plant. I wondered what she was doing. I asked cautiously.

"Oh, um, are you looking for something?

"The necklace. It's very important.
Oh, did you drop it?

　At my question, Hanashi stopped moving immediately. A slight hint of

sadness appeared on her face, which looked like a mask of ice.

……"I took it off during gym class. A girl in my class threw me out the
window.
What?

　I was at a loss. Why would someone do such a horrible thing as

throwing someone's precious things out the window? Hanashi-senpai
glanced at me and said in a self-mocking tone.

I've always been like that. For some reason, the girls my age hate me.

　As I listened to Hanashi, I thought that I could understand her. She is

frighteningly beautiful, yet cool, cold, and intimidating. I even heard
that she is called the Queen of Ice. I remembered Asahina's words that
she was just a good girl who was easily misunderstood, and I opened
my mouth hesitantly.

"Necklace. I'll look for it, too. What kind is it?

　I folded my umbrella and crawled on all fours to start searching under
the plants. Hanashi-senpai's eyes widened in surprise.

"Fine. It's none of your business.

　It was like he was pushing me away, but I could tell he was worried
about me. I shook my head.

It's okay. I, Saku-chan, am free until my childhood friend comes to pick

me up.
But it's raining.
"It's just a light rain, it'll be fine. Because it's very important.

　I'd be sad too if someone threw away something so important. Biting

her lower lip, Hanashi muttered in a faint voice.

It was given to me by someone I care about…….

　Hanashi-senpai's cheeks turned slightly red. I couldn't help but ask,

"Are you talking about Asahina-kun? The senior shook his head as if he
had given up. ……I'm not sure what to make of it, but I'm sure it's a
good idea.

"……find out for sure. What kind?

It's a thin silver chain with a small feather motif.
"Wow, I get it. I'll do my best.

　I clenched my fists tightly and Hanashi said to me, "Thank you, Yuzu-
chan. It's a little scary to be called by name by such a beautiful person.
　We then searched the entire courtyard, but the necklace was
nowhere to be found. The rain was getting heavier and heavier, and my
short-sleeved sailor suit was clinging to my body. My hair was wet and
stuck to my cheeks.

"I'm sorry, Yuzu. That's enough.

　About twenty minutes later, Hanashi said quietly. Her face showed a
hint of resignation. Before we knew it, it was raining hard and we were
both soaking wet.

"And, but...
It……'s my fault for bringing such an important thing to school. Let's go
inside, you'll catch a cold.

　Hanashi-senpai seemed to be unconcerned, but the truth is that it's

not good. If it was something that could be given up easily, it would
have been given up a long time ago.
　 I can't give up, that's why I'm struggling so hard. I'm the same way.
　I looked around the courtyard. I felt like I had searched everywhere I
could, in the plants, under the benches, and on the grass. I found one
place that I hadn't looked for yet, and I shouted, "Ah!

"Wait, Yuzu-chan!

　As I started to run, I heard the surprised voice of a senior student

chasing after me. What I was aiming for was a small pond in the
courtyard. The water isn't very clean, and it's a little murky. I sluggishly
took off my loafers and socks and cautiously walked into the pond. The
depth was only up to my knees, so I didn't have to worry about
drowning. The hem of my skirt was soaked in the water, and I felt
heavy.

Yuzu, you don't have to do that much.

Or, Hanashi-senpai, please stay where you are.

　I put my hand in the water and scratched around on the bottom. To

be honest, it's not very pleasant, as there are branches, leaves, and
garbage on the bottom. Suddenly I felt something tugging at my
fingertips, and I scooped it up. The slender silver chain shines brightly
in my hand.

"Necklace with feather motif.

　I turned to Hanashi and said in a voice so loud that I couldn't believe

it myself.

"No, sir!　I found it!　It's here!

　When I raised my right hand holding the necklace, Hanashi fell to her
knees. I crawled out of the pond and rushed over to her, took both her
hands and handed her the necklace.

I'm so glad we found you.……

　As I muttered with a sigh of relief, raindrops stuck to Hanashi-

senpai's long eyelashes and ran down her cheeks as she blinked. I don't
know if what was dripping down my cheeks was really rain or not. She
squeezed the precious treasure that she had finally gotten back with
both hands.

"Thank you, Yuzu.

　Looking straight into my eyes, Hanashi smiled, her lips quivering.

When her face is expressionless, only her beauty stands out, but when
she smiles, you can see a glimpse of her cuteness. I admired her for a
few seconds.

Yuzu!

　I was in a daze, when suddenly something was thrown over my head.

I looked over and saw that Saku-chan was wiping my hair with a sports
towel. I wonder when the committee meeting ended.

Hey, Saku-chan.
What the hell are you doing?　You're soaking wet!
"Well, this is...
I'm sorry. It's my fault.

　Instead of my stammering mouth, Hanashi-senpai opened her mouth.

Saku-chan turned to look at me as if she had noticed my presence for
the first time. The look in her eyes was cold and angry.

"Who?

　Even for such a beautiful person, Saku-chan did not hesitate in the
slightest. Hanashi-senpai didn't seem to be intimidated either, she faced
Saku-chan straight and bowed deeply.

Yuzu-chan helped me find what I was looking for. I'm really sorry you
had to go through all this.
"Hanashi, please stop. Saku-chan, it's not like that. It was something I
did on my own.

　When I grabbed Saku-chan's arm, he glared at Hanashi-senpai, then

said, "Not now, anyway," and lifted me up in a heap. The sudden
feeling of floating made my eyes black and white. After collecting my
loafers and socks, Saku-chan carried me on his shoulders like a piece of
luggage and walked briskly.

"Come on, Saku-chan. I can walk.

I've left my jersey in the classroom. Just change and then put on your
shoes.
"Okay, okay.
Why were you looking for it until you were soaking wet?

　I can't see her face from this position, but she's probably angry. I
sensed it from her sharp tone, and began to explain in a few words.

"Hanashi, Asahina-kun's childhood friend, said she lost the necklace

Asahina-kun gave her, so we were looking for it together. She said it
was very important to her.
"……Huh?　What the hell is that? Does Yuzu need to go that far?

　Saku-chan's voice was filled with unconcealed anger. I muttered to

his back, "Because I didn't want to give up……. I'm sure that Hanashi
didn't really want to give up either.

"……Saku-chan, it's me. I'm not giving up.

　Even if the kindness he shows me is just a guilty conscience. Even if

he doesn't see me as a girl. I still don't want to give up on this love.
　I replied with a small sneeze instead of a reply to Saku-chan's
questioning voice, "What? I replied with a small sneeze instead of a
reply.

The Attack of the Beautiful Woman

　I sneezed loudly, and Saku-chan stared at me with fierce eyes. I
sipped my nose and handed her a box of tissues that I had left by the
bed. He said, "Thank you." His voice was snaky and nasal.

I told you, you'd catch a cold.

"Ugh, I'm sorry.
Just go back to sleep.

　At Saku-chan's urging, I lay down on the bed. Saku-chan, who was
sitting on the floor watching me, wrinkled her brow and sighed.
　The day after I looked for Hanashi-senpai's necklace in the rain, I
caught a cold. I changed into Saku-chan's jersey afterwards, but my
underwear was still soaking wet, and the air-conditioning on the train
on the way home seemed to have chilled me completely. When I woke
up in the morning, I felt lightheaded, and when I checked my fever, it
was a low 37 degrees. I told Saku-chan that I would be absent from
school today, so she didn't have to come and pick me up, but she came
to my room in the morning.

Did you take your pills?

"I drank.
How much heat do you have?
About thirty-seven degrees.
Isn't it hard?

　When I replied that I was fine, Saku-chan let out a breath as if

relieved. I sneeze again, and she pulls the terrycloth back tightly over
me.
　It's almost time to leave the house, but Saku-chan doesn't want to
leave my side for any length of time. I'm happy, but I can't let her be
late.
Saku-chan…….
"Your uncle and aunt are both working today. Yuzu alone?
Yeah.
I think I'm gonna miss school…….
"What are you talking about? You can't do that.
"What if something happens to Yuzu? She had a high fever once and
had to be taken to the hospital.
"Oh, my God, when did this happen?

　I was taken aback by Saku-chan's words. It's true that I used to get
sick all the time when I was little, but now I'm much stronger and
healthier than I was then. This time I accidentally got a fever, but I'm
sure I'll be fine after a good night's sleep. Since Saku-chan was
reluctant, I invoked my last resort, "please".

I don't want Saku-chan to miss school because of me. Please, go to

school properly.
……"Okay.

　Saku-chan nodded and patted my head. If anything happens, call me

right away," I said. You really are a worrier, Saku-chan.

"Your face is a little hot.

　Saku-chan said this and put her hand on my cheek. The heat made it
feel nice and cool. I didn't mean to stop her, but I couldn't help but
grab her hand as she pulled away. As I squeezed it tightly, Saku-chan
looked at me with a gentle face.

What's up, Yuzu……? I think I'll stay here.

"No, no, no. It's okay. I'm sorry.
　I hurriedly shook off Saku-chan's hand and pulled the terrycloth over
my nose. I pushed down my loneliness and said, "See you later," and
Saku-chan said, "I'll buy Yuzu's favorite pudding and come back," and
left the room.
　 ……I think I'm being spoiled. Even if it's just a slight fever, Saku-
chan is overreacting. I remember when I was rushed to the hospital
with a high fever, Saku-chan was so excited that she kept holding my
hand even after I came home.

　--Yuzu, yuzu. Don't die.

　Saku-chan, I'm not going to die that easily. So you don't have to
protect me so desperately. I couldn't bring myself to say those words.
　When I closed my eyes, I could see Saku-chan's face behind my
eyelids, looking like she was about to start crying. As it was, I was
slowly being pulled into the dream.

　For a long time, Yuzu's body was weak and she would easily run a
fever over the slightest thing. I think it was in the second year of
elementary school, when Yuzu caught a cold and was hospitalized with
a high fever. I was so anxious about whether or not Yuzu would come
home safely that I didn't leave her side even for a moment after she left
the hospital until the fever broke. At the time, I was really scared of
what would happen if Yuzu died.
　As soon as the lunch break started, I took out my phone from my
bag. I pondered for a while, but then I sent a message to Yuzu, "How
are you feeling? I sent a message to Yuzu, "How are you feeling? I
waited for a while, but the message was not read. She was probably
asleep, but it made me feel restless.
　The image of Yuzu lying on the floor with blood pouring from her
forehead always comes to my mind at times like this. Just the thought
of her slumped body in my arms sends a chill down my spine.
　At that moment, the noisy classroom instantly became quiet. I looked
up from my phone, wondering what was going on.

Hey, Takatsuji……. I've got a guest for you. You're so pretty.

　A classmate called out to me, and I looked outside the classroom.

There was a female student with semi-long black hair standing near the
door. You'll be able to find a lot more than just a few things to do. Well,
I didn't think much of it yesterday, but now that you mention it, she's
quite beautiful. It's not my favorite, and I'm not interested in it.
　The senior was staring at me with a blank expression. When I
remained seated, he beckoned lightly, and I stood up reluctantly. I
could feel the attention of my classmates focusing on my every move.
As I stepped out into the hallway and stopped in front of her, she slowly
opened her mouth.

Yuzu, are you off today?

……"Huh. I think I caught a cold.

　I wasn't devilish enough to add that it was your fault, but my senior
seemed to have sensed my intentions. I'm sorry. I'm sorry for what I
did," he said sadly, lowering his eyes.

What do you want? I don't even know your name.

　To be honest, I had a lot of anger that I couldn't find a place to vent.
I wondered what Yuzu was thinking when she was looking for the
necklace that Asahina had given her. Of course, the senior had no way
of knowing how Yuzu felt, but I was still angry. It's a great way to make
sure you're getting the most out of your money.

I'm Kanashi Ishibuki from class 2, year 7. I came to apologize to Yuzu-

chan, but she wasn't in class. Do you want to meet Yuzu-chan today?
I'll come visit you…….
I'm sorry, but I want you to give this to Yuzu-chan for me. Thank you
for yesterday.
Yeah.

　What my senior handed me was a paper bag from a famous

confectionery store. It was an expensive one, like the ones you find in
department stores. I believe that Yuzu loved the financier from this
shop. As I stared at it intently, he handed me a piece of paper folded
into a square.

And here's my contact information. This is also for Yuzu-chan. Just so

you know, I'm not giving it to you.

　I was annoyed when he added it in a curt manner. I don't need to be

told that, I know that. She's such an unpleasant woman, I thought to
myself.

"Well, I'll leave you to it. If Heki finds me, I'll be in trouble, so I'm going
back.

　With that, the senior flipped the skirt of her sailor suit and strode
away. Like Moses splitting the sea, the crowd of students hanging out in
the hallway quickly avoided her. For the first time in my life, I saw
someone who was so beautiful that she was treated like an object.
　I can feel the curious stares of my classmates on my back. I know
that if I go back to class, I'll be questioned about my relationship with
her. I'm not sure…… what to do, but I'm sure I'm not the only one.

"Takatsuji-kun!　Hanashi, he's already gone!

　I turned around and saw Prince Asahina standing there, out of breath.
When I replied that I had already left, the prince clucked his tongue in
annoyance.

'Damn, it's so rare for Hanashi to come to the first year building!　I
should've known a little earlier!

　 ……Does he have a tongue, too? I was more than a little surprised at

the prince's uncharacteristic behavior, but I didn't care about that now.
I roughly shook off his hand that was firmly gripping my shoulder.

"Hanashi, what did you want with Takatsuji-kun?

　The prince asked me smilingly, but there was a tricky light lurking
behind his eyes. He's coated in a mask that looks like sugar candy, but
he's not just a good guy. I bounce my gaze straight back at him.

It's not for me. Just give this to Yuzu.

I see. Hanashi, when did you become friends with Hasumi-san?

　The prince loosened his cheeks as if relieved. He is a very easy man

to understand. He probably has no intention of hiding his feelings. I
don't really care what he thinks about Kanashi Ishibuki, but thinking
about Yuzu's feelings makes me sick to my stomach.

How do you feel about Yuzu?

　After I asked, I regretted that I might have gone a little too far. I
remember when I was in the fifth grade, some girls in my class
surrounded me and asked me, "What do you think about XX-chan? At
the time, I turned them away, saying, "If you have something to say to
me, just come directly to me. Am I a school girl?
　The prince didn't seem upset, and the edges of his lips lifted. I don't
deny that he has a good face, but there's a certain calculating quality to
his smile that I don't like.

I'd like to take that right back.

What?
"Takatsuji-kun, what do you think of Hasumi-san?

　I was upset by the unexpected turn of events.

　I've been asked similar questions more than once or twice, and every
time I've answered without hesitation, "It's just a childhood friend. It's
the guy Yuzu likes. I'm sure I should have answered immediately this
time as well, to avoid any strange misunderstandings. The answer was
stuck in her throat, but she couldn't get it out for any length of time.

Don't you realize that?

What?
"Takatsuji-kun, you look like you don't want to give Hasumi-san to me,
or anyone else, for that matter.

　I felt as if I had been punched in the gut. I hadn't noticed it before -

the possessiveness lurking in the back of my mind that I had tried so
hard not to notice. As soon as she was discovered, she came out of
hiding and shouted at the top of her lungs.
　That's obvious. Yuzu is my childhood friend. It's mine and mine alone.
"……I...

　The prince was staring at me with a smile on his face without

changing his color. The eyes that seemed to see right through me were
frightening, and I suddenly averted my gaze.

stifled true feelings

　I was attacked by a beautiful woman and a handsome man one after
another, and I ended up being questioned by my classmates. There
were some who said it was a love triangle, or even a four-way
relationship with Hasumi, but I brushed them off as ridiculous. I don't
care if it's me, I don't want Yuzu to get involved in some strange
rumor. I was angry at them for being so annoying.
　Kanashi Ishibuki was certainly an eye-catching beauty, but she was
not a very pleasant person. She was unsociable, brusque, and had an
air of being unapproachable. I think Yuzu is much prettier than her. For
me, Yuzu is the cutest girl in the world, more so than any actress or idol
on TV.
　I shook off my classmates who were prying into this and that even
after school, and left the classroom as if I were running away. As usual,
I peeked into the classroom of Class 4 and remembered that Yuzu was
absent. As I was about to turn on my heel, I was stopped by a strong
tone of voice, "Takatsuji.

"……Geh. Shinozaki.

　I frowned, and Shinozaki glared at me disapprovingly, "You're rude.

This is the day when I get tangled up with a strong-willed woman like
Kanashi Ishibuki. I've been missing Yuzu's soft smile for some time
now.

"……What, a mugging?　I don't have any money.

No, of course not!
I can't wait to get home and go to Yuzu's.
I know, I know. Here are the notes for today's class, so please give
them to Yuzu.

　Shinosaki said and roughly pushed the campus notebook at me.

Shinozaki is a strong-minded person, but he's actually a very caring
person. When I said "thank you," he cut me off, saying, "I don't need to
be thanked by Takatsuji. Why is this guy so quarrelsome at every turn?
As we stared at each other in silence, one of the boys suddenly
intervened. He was smiling broadly at us.

What's that?　Saku, are you going to visit Hasumi-san?　I'm thinking of

going too.
You're not coming.
You don't have to go to Kuzumaki!

　Unusually, Shinozaki and I were in agreement. Shinozaki dislikes me,

but he seems to dislike Mitsuru even more, who seems to be the
embodiment of a womanizer. He glared at me as if he were looking at
trash on the street, but Mitsuru didn't seem to mind.

What? I'm genuinely worried about you, Hasumi-san.

You only have ulterior motives.
"Why is it okay for you and not for me?　Don't you have any ulterior
motives?

　I was momentarily at a loss for words when Mitsuru shoved me. I felt
a chill run down my spine as I felt Shinozaki's gaze on me, and
hurriedly denied it with a loud "No! I denied it out loud.

There's no way I'd have any ulterior motives for Yuzu.

　As soon as I said that, I was hit in the back by Shinozaki who clicked
his tongue and hit me with a goo. What the heck, I can get mad
whether I have ulterior motives or not? I don't get it.

Shinosaki, what the hell are you doing here?

"That's my line. Takatsuji, what do you want to do with Yuzu?
What?
It's not fair that you have no intention of doing anything about Yuzu,
but you're only trying to protect your childhood friend position!　I really
hate you!

　Shinozaki said evasively, "I'm off to club activities! I'm off to club
activities! It's a great way to make sure you're getting the most out of
your time with your family.

Shinosaki's friendliness like that is cute.

"What?　What?
I don't hate Saku, but I think I agree with Shinozaki on this one. How
long are you going to pretend not to notice?

　Mitsuru snickered lightly, and the edges of his lips lifted in a contorted
smile. I didn't ask him what. I was afraid to ask the answer.
　The prince's words go round and round in my head. I don't want Yuzu
to know how I'm always looking at her. I don't want Yuzu to know
about the ugly greed I have in my stomach.

I'm worried about Yuzu, so I'm leaving.

　I'm just a childhood friend of Yuzu's. My role is to do everything I can

to make her happy. It's not my role to make Yuzu happy.
　Mitsuru didn't say anything more. I turned my back to my friend, who
raised one hand lightly, and walked away quickly.

　As I boarded the train, I leaned against the closed door and breathed
a sigh of relief. This was the first time since I entered high school that I
went to and from school alone. It was easy not to have to protect Yuzu
on a crowded train, but I felt lonely without her little hand squeezing
the hem of my uniform.
　Arriving at the nearest station, I got off the train and started walking.
Without Yuzu, it took me about half the time it usually takes me to get
home. Yuzu always takes a long time to get out of the ticket gate, and
her stride is small and slow. But I've never found it annoying.
　Before going home, we stopped by a cake shop called Patisserie Mori.
Yuzu, who has a sweet tooth, loves the cakes there. I was curious
about the limited-time Mont Blanc pudding, but I just bought one
simple smooth pudding. For herself, she could just buy a hundred yen
pudding from a convenience store.
　After paying the bill and leaving the store, I walked past my house
and pressed the intercom of Yuzu's house next door. Not long after, the
door opened with a "yes". I was surprised to see that it was Yuzu's
mother who answered the door.

"Hey, Auntie. Where's your job?

Yeah, I had to leave early. Saku-chan, are you visiting Yuzu?　Thank
you.

　I stepped into Yuzu's house without any prompting. The lady said,
"I'll make tea now," and headed for the kitchen. I followed her back and
handed her a small paper bag filled with pudding.
This is for Yuzu. I'm sorry, I should have bought one for my aunt too.
"Oh, I'm sorry. If it's for me, you don't have to worry about it.

　She pulled out a high quality looking tea pack from the shelf and said,
"I wonder when I got this. She tilted her head and poured hot water
into the cup.

"The pudding here is good, isn't it? It cost a fortune.

"I had a part-time job over the summer, so I'm fine. I don't spend too
much money.
You really have a soft spot for Yuzu, don't you, Saku?……

　The aunt sighs as she watches the clear water slowly turn reddish
brown.

"Hey, Saku-chan. About Yuzu's wound, Saku-chan doesn't need to feel

burdened.

　I cringed. Yuzu's mother never once blamed me for what I used to

do. She used to scold me a lot when I used to make Yuzu cry every
day, though. She was scary back then, and I was quite afraid of her
back then.

Sorry…….

　Apologies were pouring out of my mouth. When I turned my head to

the side, she gently patted me on the back and said, "Saku-chan. I
thought Yuzu didn't look anything like her, but the calm tone of her
voice was quite similar.

Do you hate me?

No way, I don't hold a grudge. She's the one who followed Saku-chan.
……But I'd be lying if I said I didn't care about her at all.

　She quickly pulled the teapack out of the cup and threw it into the
triangular corner of the sink. She placed the expensive looking pudding
in an exaggerated glass bowl and the cheap plastic pudding on a tray. I
put a plastic sports drink bottle on top, along with a cup of tea. It was
probably for Yuzu.

But I don't think it's good for her if you spoil her like that. She needs to
be independent and get away from Saku-chan. Yuzu has her own life,
and Saku-chan has hers.

　I didn't answer anything. I know that our relationship is more than

just a normal childhood friendship. It's not that I think we can stay like
this forever.

"Here, take this to Yuzu's room. Have a good time.

　I took the tray that was handed to me and carefully walked up the
stairs, making sure not to spill any tea. I knocked and said, "Let's go
in," before stepping into Yuzu's room.

Saku-chan.…….

　Yuzu, who was lying on the bed, wriggled out of her terryclothes. I
put the tray on the low table and looked into Yuzu's face. Her cheeks
looked a little red, but she looked better than when I met her this
morning. I touched her cheek with the back of my hand, but it didn't
feel so hot.

Are you okay?

Yeah. I'm totally fine. I'll go to school tomorrow.

　When I said, "I bought pudding," Yuzu raised her head happily.
"Patisserie Mori's pudding! She shouted happily.

"They had chestnut ones for a limited time, but I decided to get the
regular ones. I'll buy that one next time.
"I'm glad, thank you. Let's eat together, Saku-chan.
I got one of my own.

　When I picked up the convenience store pudding, Yuzu lowered her

eyebrows apologetically. I said, "I'm sorry for always doing this," but I
like doing it, so there's no need for Yuzu to worry about it.
　Yuzu brought the pudding to her mouth with a plastic spoon and
smiled happily, "It's delicious! The corners of her eyes were lowered,
and her cheeks were loose and loose. I've always liked the smile that
Yuzu, who is always shy, shows only to me.

　--You look like you don't want to give Hasumi-san to anyone.

　It's not fair that you have no intention of doing anything about Yuzu,
but you're only trying to protect your childhood friend's position!
　How long are you going to pretend like you don't know what you're
doing?

　 Stop messing around. It doesn't matter how I feel. My duty is to

protect this smile with all my might.

"Yuzu.
"Yeah?
　When I called out her name, Yuzu, who had been intoxicated by the
pudding, turned to me. I moistened my throat with tea and slowly
opened my mouth.

I'll support you, Yuzu.

"……What……going on?

　Yuzu blinked her large eyes in confusion. She continued to keep her
strength in her stomach so that the unnecessary emotions would not
seep out on their own.

I'll make sure to support Yuzu so that she can get along with the guy
she likes. I'll stand by Yuzu no matter what.

　I repeat to myself. Don't worry, I can support you. Feeling a

tightening in the back of my chest, I spun the words carefully.
　Yuzu's cheeks had somehow turned white, and her hands were
trembling as she held the pudding. She nodded her head "yes" in a
muffled voice, and then turned over silently. A few moments later, a
drop of water fell on the terrycloth.

"Yuzu!

　I was startled and hurriedly looked into Yuzu's face. Her eyes were as
beautiful as jewels, and tears were dripping from them.

"I'm sorry, Yuzu. Did I say something weird?

　I took a tissue from the bedside table and wiped her tears from her
cheeks. Whenever I saw Yuzu's crying face, I felt as if my heart had
been crushed. Yuzu gave a small squeak and said, "No, no.
"Sorry, sorry, Saku-chan.

　I don't know why Yuzu is crying, but I'm probably the one who made
her cry. Because of me, Yuzu is crying. I don't know how to stop her
tears, so all I can do is hold her trembling hand.

Afternoon Tea in the Courtyard

　Madeleines, macarons, canelés, egg tarts. As if by magic, Hanashi
pulled out sweets one after another from the paper bag. When I was
stunned, she put them on my lap and said, "I'm sorry, but I don't know
what to do.

"Yuzu-chan, eat this if you like. This one is also delicious.

"Oh, thank you.

　After school, I was sitting side by side with Hanashi on a bench in the
courtyard. Almost 100% of the students passing by looked at me twice.
I can understand that feeling. She's so beautiful that it's hard to believe
that she actually exists in this world. However, the senior completely
ignored the stares pouring in.
　When I heard from Saku-chan about the contact information of
Hanashi-senpai, I sent her a message thanking her for the financier.
When I told her that this was my favorite store, she was surprisingly
taken aback. Apparently, my senior loves sweets. I also have a sweet
tooth, so we had a great time talking about sweets.

　--I'll prepare a snack I recommend, would you like to eat it with me

sometime?

　When Hanashi-senpai asked me to join her, I nervously said yes.

That's how I ended up having a sweets party with a beautiful woman.
The sweets spread out on the benches in the courtyard were glittering
like afternoon tea served in a hotel lounge. After all, Hanashi-senpai's
aura is amazing. All of the sweets looked like they could be found in a
department store, but I wondered if she was a lady.

"Wow, I've always wanted to try one of their macarons!……

"Yuzu-chan's dorayaki is also delicious.
I've brought you some hot tea.

　I poured the tea from the thermos into a cup and offered it to
Hanashi. She smiled and accepted it, saying, "Thank you. The glare was
as bright as ever, but I had to get used to it.
　I heard this from Asahina-kun, but it seems that Hanashi-senpai
doesn't have any friends of the same sex at all. When I told him about
being invited to a sweets party, he laughed and said, "Hanashi's so
excited to be friends with Hasumi-san.

"Mr. Butterbur!

　One of the boys, who didn't know what to be afraid of, called out
Hanashi's name with a grin. Hanashi didn't even glance at him, but the
group of boys let out a vulgar laugh. I felt a little uncomfortable
because of their ridiculous attitude. I'm not sure if he noticed my frown,
but he lowered his eyes apologetically.

I'm sorry, Yuzu-chan…….

"Well, it's not your fault, Hanashi.
Being with me makes you feel bad, doesn't it?
I don't think so. I don't have many friends either, so it's fun to be with
my senpai. The sweets are delicious.

　As I bit into the madeleine, Hanashi stroked my hair with a hand full
of compassion, saying, "Eat a lot. If the Virgin Mary were still alive, she
might be like this. Hanashi-senpai has a cold attitude toward boys, but
she's very kind to me.

……"Are you sure you don't want Asahina-kun with you today?

　I asked while chewing on a madeleine. Asahina-kun wanted to

participate in today's pastry party, but Hanashi-senpai firmly refused.
She waved one hand in the air with a disappointed expression. Her
white fingers are thin and beautiful.

I don't like it. If Heki was here, girls would come right up to me and I
wouldn't feel comfortable.
"But I like you, Asahina-kun.

　Before I could finish, Hanashi blocked my mouth. As if she was being

targeted by an assassin, she was scurrying around, keeping a wary eye
on her surroundings.

Don't say anything out of the ordinary here.

"Mm-hmm.
……"It's true, but I don't want word to get out.
"……m sorry.

　I bowed my head. It seems that Hanashi-senpai is wary of Asahina-

kun's fans. I'm not sure what to make of that. It must be very difficult
to be the childhood friend of such a cool person. Saku-chan is also very
cool, so I should be careful too.
　At that moment, the smartphone I had beside me shuddered with a
boom. I unlocked it and saw that I had received a message from Saku-
chan.

　--I'll be waiting for you, call me back when you get back.
　 ……I told her she didn't have to wait because I would be late today.
I sighed and sent him a message saying, "Go home first," and gently
put my phone screen down.

"Boyfriend?

　I shook my head in response to Hanashi-senpai's question.

"No, no. I don't have a boyfriend.

"Huh?　Then what about that guy with the eyes and the attitude?
"You mean Saku-chan?　Saku-chan is my childhood friend.

　It seems that Hanashi-chan's impression of Saku-chan is not so good,

but Saku-chan also said "that unfriendly and pushy senior girl", so it's
mutual. But Saku-chan also said, "That senior girl is unfriendly and
pushy.

"Is that so?　A mere childhood friend would go that far?

"……Saku-chan is morbidly overprotective of me. But it's not because
she likes me.

　As soon as I said that, I felt a twinge in the back of my nose and
almost burst into tears. The chocolate I threw into my mouth to cover it
up was more bitter than I had expected, and the bittersweetness
spread to my mouth.

　--I'll make sure to support Yuzu so that she can be successful with
the guy she likes. I'll be on her side no matter what.

　I was the one who foolishly lied and said that I wanted your support.
I deserved it. And yet, I couldn't take it anymore and cried in front of
Saku-chan. I felt like I had been reminded once again that Saku-chan
really does not care about me.
　It's a lie that I like someone. I like Saku-chan. I'm sure it was easy to
say. But if I said it, Saku-chan, who claims to be on my side no matter
what, would probably try to respond to my feelings even if she had to
push herself away.
　Since that day, although on the surface we have been acting
normally, there has been a somewhat awkward atmosphere between
us. Saku-chan was still overprotective, but she didn't touch me as much
as she should have, and she wanted to hear about my "favorite
person". It was painful for me to be supported by Saku-chan, so I
started to avoid him.

"But, but, I... Even if Saku-chan doesn't think anything of it, I still love
you.

　 ……No matter how many times I'm confronted with reality, no

matter how many times I'm beaten down, I never want to give up. I
squeezed my hand, and Hanashi gently wrapped it around me.

……"Me. I've never had this conversation with a girl before.

"Oh, really?
"People don't want to talk to me about who they like. Most of the boys I
talk to end up falling in love with me.

　If I made a mistake, it could be taken as an overconfident statement,

but I answered honestly, "That's true. Hanashi-senpai's face has that
much persuasive power.

But Takatsuji-kun, right?　That boy didn't even look at me. He only

looked at Yuzu-chan, who was soaking wet.
　Hanashi-senpai was squeezing my hand in a somewhat desperate
manner. I knew that she was trying to comfort me.

At least, I did. I got the feeling that this girl really likes Yuzu-chan.
"Senior Hanashi.……
……I'm sorry. I've never talked about love before. Am I saying
something weird?

　I shook my head at Hanashi, who tilted her head anxiously. In a small

voice, I answered, "Saku-chan, I'm not really interested in beautiful
women.

But thank you.

　When I finally raised my head, I looked straight into the eyes of

Hanashi. I'm not very good at making eye contact with people, but I
want to face my senpai head on.
　Hanashi-senpai stared at my face from a very close distance. It was a
little nerve-wracking to have the gaze of a beautiful woman so close to
me. After a few moments of silence, Hanashi murmured, "Takatsuji-
kun, I think you're probably a bit of a face eater.