Chapter 3 | “Tangled Emotions”

“—So, Akihito, you’re not joining in?”
Akira’s voice cut through the lively hum of the birthday party, where everyone was gathered around cake and snacks, chatting animatedly. I sat at the dining table, quietly observing the scene.

By the way, Emma-chan was still fast asleep on my lap, her soft breaths barely audible.

“It’s Charl’s moment,” I replied, keeping my voice low. “She’d probably have more fun with a girls-only vibe, right?”
“Yeah, I get that~” Akira said, plopping down beside me. “I felt outta place and ended up over here too. Hey, why don’t you have some?” He slid a cheesecake onto the table, its creamy surface catching the light.

I glanced at Emma-chan, her peaceful face nestled against me. She loved cake and snacks, didn’t she? Maybe I should wake her… but no, disturbing her sleep might sour her mood. There’d be leftovers in the fridge or on the shelf later—she could enjoy them then. Watching her slumber so serenely, I felt a small smile tug at my lips.

“Thanks,” I said to Akira. “Sorry, you came all this way, and I’m making it awkward.”
“Nah, I was mostly here to ease your awkwardness anyway, so it’s fine.” He waved it off, then leaned in slightly. “More importantly, about Charlotte-san’s friend—”

“Hey, Akihito.”

Livi’s voice interrupted as she strolled over, oblivious to the Japanese conversation. It was pure coincidence, but Akira froze, his face flushing faintly. He fidgeted, eyes darting restlessly, clearly hyper-aware of her presence. Normally, he’d dive headfirst into flirting, but with Livi not understanding him, he seemed to be holding back his feelings.

“What’s up?” I asked, flashing Livi a smile while glancing at Akira’s flustered state.

“I got bored, so I came over here,” she said simply, her tone light.

Like me, Livi had been keeping her distance, watching the party unfold rather than joining in. Even when Charl called out to her, she’d just smile and shake her head, declining to jump into the chatter. Kanon-san had been keeping her company instead, bridging the gap.

“You came all the way to Japan,” I said, tilting my head.

“Don’t you want to talk with Charl?”

It felt like a shame—she’d traveled so far for Charl’s birthday but hadn’t spent much time with her. I expected her to brush it off, but her answer surprised me.

“Today’s all about Lottie,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “This is a birthday party her Japanese friends threw, right? I’d just get in the way. Besides, I already stopped by this morning, knowing it’d be like this.”

As a foreigner, Livi stood out as much as Charl had when she first arrived as an exchange student. Like Akira right now, Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, and Karin were probably stealing curious glances at her. Livi, aware of the attention, was deliberately staying on the sidelines. She couldn’t speak Japanese, so joining the conversation would require a translator—likely Charl—and she clearly didn’t want to burden her friend.

She was so considerate.

“You came by this morning?” I asked, piecing things together. “Sorry, I wasn’t here.”

That explained how Kanon-san and Livi had connected. She must’ve visited when Kanon-san sent me that first message. I felt a pang of guilt for making her go through the trouble.

“Hehe…” Livi’s lips curled into a mischievous grin.

Before I could react, she leaned in close, her breath tickling my ear as she whispered in a sultry tone, “Not just a morning return, but an afternoon one—pretty bold, you two. Was Lottie cute?”

“—!”

Her words hit like a dart, and I caught my breath, stunned. She’d seen right through me. Livi smirked, clearly relishing my reaction.

Akira, barely understanding English, just blinked at us, curiosity etched on his face.

“Hehe, nice reaction♪” Livi laughed, her eyes sparkling with amusement. She glanced at Charl, who was chatting happily with Shimizu-san and the others. “Huh, she’s not freaking out? I was sure she’d be eavesdropping on us, but that’s rare.”

Charl wasn’t reacting as Livi expected, so she muttered to herself, tilting her head. I followed her gaze, but Charl seemed oblivious, engrossed in her conversation.

“H-Hey, Akihito, introduce me to her!” Akira grabbed my shoulder, his voice urgent, snapping me back to the moment.

I couldn’t blame him—Livi was undeniably stunning.

“Livi, is that okay?” I asked, turning to her.

“Hm? What?”

“I’d like to introduce him. His name’s Saionji Akira, my best friend and childhood buddy.” I gestured toward Akira with an open palm.

“Wow, like me and Lottie!” Livi’s face lit up. “If he’s your best friend, he must be a good guy!”

Her beaming smile sent Akira’s excitement skyrocketing. Even without understanding her words, her warm expression was enough to make him lean in eagerly.

“U-Uh, call me Akira! And, um, I’m good at soccer!”

And there it was—Akira’s bad habit. He got overly aggressive with girls he liked, forgetting Livi couldn’t understand him. He stepped closer, his enthusiasm overwhelming.

But Livi reacted instantly, stepping back with a polite smile. In a swift motion, she grabbed my arm, positioning me as a shield between her and Akira. She didn’t understand his words, but his bold approach had clearly startled her. Her restraint—smiling instead of shutting him down outright—showed her consideration, likely because he was my friend.

“Akira…” I said, my tone a gentle warning.

“Ah, my bad…”

Realizing he’d been softly rejected, Akira’s shoulders slumped, and he muttered an apology. I glanced at Livi, who peeked out from behind me, her cheerful smile unwavering. She didn’t say a word, just gripped my clothes tightly, creating an invisible barrier between her and Akira.

As Akira walked off dejectedly, I called after him, “H-Hey, Akira…!” But he kept going. Kanon-san, who’d been watching, quickly moved to comfort him, so I entrusted him to her care.

Charl seemed to have noticed the commotion when Akira raised his voice, but she didn’t say anything, turning back to Shimizu-san and the others. She must’ve seen Livi clinging to me, but since Livi was her best friend, maybe she didn’t mind?

“Livi, you alright?” I asked, my voice gentle as I checked on her.

“I’m fine, but… that was startling.”

Livi’s bright smile faded into a relieved sigh, her expression softening into a resigned smile as she let go of my clothes. That cheerful front had been her way of holding it together. She slid into the chair Akira had vacated, her gaze drifting to where he now stood, talking with Kanon-san.

“Is he always like that…?” she asked, her tone curious but wary.

“Well…” I hesitated, then spoke up for him. “He’s actually a good guy. It’s just, uh, you’re so charming that he got a bit too eager.”

I didn’t want her to misunderstand Akira. He always overdid it with girls he liked, which was why his romantic pursuits never panned out, but at his core, he was undeniably a great person.

“Charming…” Livi murmured, so softly I barely caught it.

“Huh, what’d you say?”

Her cheeks were faintly flushed, a subtle blush that hadn’t been there before. Was she embarrassed now, after being startled by Akira?

“No, nothing~” Livi shook her head, her smile returning, bright and deflecting. She seemed cheerful enough, so I let it slide, sensing it wasn’t a big deal.

“Oh, I’m getting hungry, so I’ll grab some cake!” she announced, hopping up to head toward Kaguya-san, who was serving slices.

Her free-spirited nature shone through when it was just the two of us. Still, if we talked too much, Charl might get jealous, so this was probably for the best. I glanced down at Emma-chan, still sleeping soundly in my arms, and gently stroked her head, her soft breaths grounding me in the moment.

◆◆◆

“—Ahn!”

Emma-chan, now awake and perched on my lap, opened her mouth wide, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. I popped a small piece of shortcake into her mouth, and she chewed eagerly, swallowing with a delighted gulp. Her cheeks softened into a grin, a clear sign she was loving every bite.

“Is it yummy?” I asked, smiling at her enthusiasm.

“Mmm…!” Emma-chan tilted her head side to side, her body swaying as if her whole being was dancing with joy at the sweet, fluffy treat.

“She’s really adorable…” Karin’s voice came from beside me as she approached, drawn in by Emma-chan’s charm.

“Mmm!” Emma-chan, noticing her, grabbed the fork from my hand, stabbed a piece of cake, and held it out to Karin.

“You’re giving it to me?” Karin asked, her eyes softening.

“Onee-chan, wanna eat?” Emma-chan’s English didn’t quite connect, but her gesture was clear.

Karin, understanding enough through her basic English, nodded with a gentle smile. “Here, ahn!” Emma-chan mimicked me, bringing the fork closer. Karin opened her mouth slightly, accepting the offering with warmth.

“Yummy?” Emma-chan asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

“Yeah, it’s yummy,” Karin replied, her voice soft.

“Mmm…!” Emma-chan nodded back, her face glowing with satisfaction. She’d clearly taken a liking to Karin.

“Sorry, Karin,” I said, seizing the moment. “I need to step away for a bit—can I leave Emma-chan with you?”

I needed to use the bathroom, and Karin’s presence felt like the perfect opportunity. She only spoke basic English, but she could communicate with Emma-chan through gestures and expressions, so a few minutes should be fine.

“Onii-chan, where you going?” Emma-chan’s small hand grabbed my sleeve, her voice tinged with concern.
“Sorry, I’m just going to the bathroom,” I reassured her gently.

Normally, she’d insist on following, but living with us had taught her that the bathroom was off-limits. With a reluctant “Mmm,” she let go.

I headed to the bathroom, washed my hands, and was about to return to the living room when—

“Akihito.”

Livi stood in the hallway, her expression unusually serious.

“Something up?” I asked, sensing she had a reason for waiting.

“Sorry, can we talk for a bit?” She scratched her cheek awkwardly, forcing a smile as she gauged my reaction.

I’d been thinking we needed to talk too, so her timing was perfect. “If we talk in the hallway, someone might come by,” I said, considering privacy. “How about the second-floor balcony?”

Since she’d approached me alone, it was likely something she didn’t want others to overhear. My room was shared with Charl, so that wasn’t an option. The balcony seemed like a calm, secluded spot.

“Yeah, thanks,” Livi said, not objecting. She grabbed her shoes, and I sent a quick message to Kanon-san just in case before leading the way upstairs.

“—What a beautiful sky…” Livi murmured on the balcony, her breath forming white puffs as she gazed at the night sky.

“Is it different from England?” I asked, curious.

“That’s a tough question.” She gave a troubled smile, and I realized my phrasing might’ve been off.

“It depends on the place,” she continued, “but… the night sky here is prettier than where I lived.”

Living in a rural area, our surroundings were dark save for streetlights and the soft glow from houses. The nearby convenience store was out of sight, and the clear air made the stars shine vividly, likely captivating Livi.

“I… really love Lottie…” she said slowly, her eyes still fixed on the stars, her voice carrying a quiet weight.

“She’s cute and a great girl, right?” I replied, matching her tone.

“Yeah, exactly.” Livi’s voice warmed. “She used to talk differently, more childish—but even then, Lottie was kind. I loved her so much as a friend.”

So Charl’s speech had been more casual back then, maybe like how she was with Sophia-san or Emma-chan now.

“Was Charl popular?” I asked, curious about her life in England.

“Super popular, with both guys and girls,” Livi said, as if it were obvious.

That didn’t surprise me. With Charl’s looks and personality, she’d naturally draw people in.

“Don’t worry,” Livi added, perhaps sensing my thoughts as her boyfriend. “No guys tried to make a move on Lottie. She was too perfect, almost untouchable. It was always girls around her.”

She spoke with a hint of pride, as if claiming her place by Charl’s side. “Well, I was the one always by her side, though. Lottie kept her distance from others because of Emma.” Her eyes narrowed nostalgically, lost in memories.

“She had to take care of Emma-chan,” I said, understanding. “So she probably couldn’t go out and have fun much.”

After Emma-chan’s birth, Charl had taken on a parental role, likely sacrificing the carefree teenage life others enjoyed. Livi probably visited often because Charl couldn’t leave Emma-chan to go out.

“And she was still hung up on her dad…” Livi’s voice grew heavy. “That accident changed Lottie…”

She closed her eyes, sadness flickering across her face, perhaps recalling a grieving Charl. Mentioning Charl’s dad so suddenly suggested Charl had shared that pain with her, just as she had with me.

“Did she change that much?” I asked, wanting to know the Charl I hadn’t met.

“She talks so politely now, right?” Livi said. “Back then, she was way more casual with everyone and showed her emotions openly, like Emma does now.”

So Charl had forced herself to act mature, likely to be a role model for Emma-chan. When we first met, she was elegant and refined, but as we grew closer, she’d pout or act clingy, revealing her true self. That initial Charl wasn’t fake—she was just bottling up her feelings, trying to be strong. Livi’s comment about Charl keeping others at a distance probably stemmed from that.

“I wanted to help Lottie recover,” Livi said brightly, flashing a smile. “She’s my childhood friend, my best friend, and I love her so much.”

But even I, meeting her for the first time, could see the brave front in her smile. “But… I couldn’t,” she admitted, her voice faltering. “No matter how much I encouraged her, Lottie just smiled on the surface. The wound in her heart never healed.”

Charl had carried the scar from her dad’s accident even when I met her, blaming herself for his death—a burden she’d held for five years. Livi’s pure desire to save her, without expecting anything in return, made her failure to heal Charl’s wound all the more painful.

“Then, out of nowhere, Lottie told me she had to study abroad in Japan,” Livi continued, her voice tinged with shock. “I was… so shocked…”

Losing someone you wanted to save, suddenly gone—it must’ve been devastating, especially for childhood friends who’d grown up together. “Did Charl resist it?” I asked.

“No, she smiled so I wouldn’t worry.”

That sounded like Charl.

“But Lottie loved Japan,” Livi added, “so I tried to think it might be good for her…”

Her attempt to stay positive betrayed her true feelings, confirmed by her next words. “But I was still worried about Lottie… So I applied to study abroad with my parents and teachers.”

She was a girl of action, no doubt. To think she’d try to follow Charl to Japan without knowing the language.

“They didn’t approve, huh?” I guessed.

“Yeah… They said, ‘How are you going to manage without speaking Japanese?’”

Charl’s near-perfect Japanese let her blend into classes and friendships effortlessly, but for Livi, who spoke none, her parents must’ve been especially concerned. A reason like following her best friend likely wouldn’t sway them.

“You’re really kind, Livi,” I said, moved by her selflessness. Everything she’d done was for Charl.

“Kindness alone… can’t save anyone…”

Her face twisted in pain, shattering the carefree image I’d had of her. “I want you to keep this a secret from Lottie, but… after she left, I lost all motivation…”

It was a shocking confession, so unlike her vibrant demeanor. It showed just how deeply Charl’s departure had wounded her.

“Is it still like that?” I asked, concerned.

“No, not anymore,” she said, shaking her head with a wry smile.

She seemed to have moved past it, but her distant attitude today still puzzled me. I listened as she continued.

“A few weeks after she went to Japan—on the day Lottie said she was starting school there—she started sending me cheerful messages. That’s when I gradually started feeling better too.”

That was the day after summer break, when Charl began her study abroad—and the day I met her.

“Well, most of her messages were about you, though,” Livi added with a resigned smile.

“Huh?” I stared at her, caught off guard.

“She kept talking about this honest, kind boy who lives next door, how Emma adores him like a big brother, how reliable he is. Every time she told me about her day, she was always praising you.”

Charl had been talking about me to Livi from the very start. “That’s… kinda embarrassing…” I muttered, feeling shy.

“Hehe… It was rare for Lottie to talk about a boy, and she sounded so happy, so I wanted to meet this ‘Akihito’ guy.”

That explained her excitement at Okayama Station when she realized I was Charl’s boyfriend.

“But… her messages started coming less and less,” Livi said, her expression clouding. “Lately, she only replies once a day.”

That was likely because Charl had been spending so much time with me, barely touching her phone. For Livi, who’d been worrying about her, that must’ve been unsettling.

“And then, what!?” Livi’s voice rose, her anger spilling out as she leaned in close. “Sleeping with a guy!? Engaged!? Living together!? You’d freak out, right!? Is she being tricked by some weird guy!?”

Her rapid-fire words carried her frustration. I understood now. “Well… if your friend, who’s supposed to be a student, suddenly cuts contact and then this happens, it’d be shocking, right…?”

“I was already suspicious about Lottie going to Japan out of nowhere, so I thought there had to be something fishy going on!”

That explained why she couldn’t stay put and came to Japan. Imagining Charl sending happy messages, unaware of Livi’s worry, stirred a strange mix of emotions in me.

“Sorry, it’s all my fault…” I said, realizing Charl hadn’t shared much about me with Livi, which likely fueled her mistrust.

“Well… I get now that there were reasons for it…” Livi nodded reluctantly.

“Oh, really?” I asked, surprised.

“You helped me out, Akihito. If you’re the ‘Akihito’ Lottie talked about, then at least she’s not being forced into anything. Emma’s super attached to you too.”

I’d unknowingly resolved one issue. If I hadn’t met Livi that day, things might’ve spiraled again. Emma-chan’s fondness for me seemed to have helped, proving her knack for judging character.

“I’m glad the misunderstanding’s cleared up,” I said, relieved.

“Seriously. If Lottie had been caught up in something weird and forced into an engagement, I would’ve done whatever it took to get her out,” Livi said with a laugh, half-joking but with a fierce edge.

Her action-oriented nature was almost intimidating. “Should I explain things?” I offered, wanting to honor her sincerity and friendship.

“No, it’s fine,” she said, shaking her head.

“You sure?”

“I know Lottie’s okay now, so it’s over for me. But if you want to talk, I’ll listen.”

She flashed a mischievous grin, like a playful kid, as if saying she was satisfied but open to hearing more if I wanted to share. Her charm likely made her as popular as Charl among friends.

“It’s not exactly a fun story, so let’s pass,” I said, not eager to dive into heavy topics unless necessary.
“Got it,” Livi said, losing interest and turning her gaze back to the stars.

But her mouth kept moving. “If you ever want to talk, just say so. You’re Lottie’s boyfriend and my benefactor. If you’re in trouble, I’ll listen and lend a hand.”

She was offering her support, and despite her cute looks, her words carried a cool, dependable weight.

“That’s reassuring,” I said, genuinely touched.

“Well, I can’t beat you, though,” she said, her tone shifting.

“Nah, that’s not true,” I protested.

Livi had action, empathy, and an ability to connect with anyone. Her straightforwardness was tempered by intelligence, and talking to her made me trust her as a person. She had qualities I envied and couldn’t replicate.
But she didn’t seem to agree. “It is,” she said, her voice suddenly serious, cutting through the warm atmosphere.

“Livi?”

“I’m so grateful to you, Akihito. Seeing Lottie at the birthday party, I could tell she’s genuinely smiling now. She hasn’t forgotten her dad, but the deep wound in her heart is gone. And I know that’s because of you.”

Having watched Charl closely, Livi could see the change.

“I didn’t really do anything…” I said, deflecting.

“You don’t need to be modest. I know Lottie loves you and depends on you,” she insisted.

Despite barely talking with Charl since reuniting, Livi’s certainty suggested she’d heard things from Kanon-san.

“I… couldn’t do it…” she said, her voice breaking. “I couldn’t heal Lottie’s heart… It’s so frustrating, and I feel pathetic…”

I finally understood why Livi had kept her distance, watching Charl from afar. She wrongly believed she’d failed to help Charl and carried that guilt, holding herself back from joining in. It was heartbreaking.

“I went through some stuff in middle school too,” I said, surprising her with my shift to a personal story.

“Huh…?” Livi’s eyes widened, caught off guard.

“It might sound dramatic, but for me, it was enough to make me give up on life,” I admitted. The guilt toward my teammates, the despair of betrayal, the weight of being hated by so many—having already been abandoned by my parents, I felt I didn’t deserve to live. It was crushing for a middle schooler.

“But my childhood friend, Akira, who I introduced earlier, worked hard at studying—something he’s bad at—to go to the same high school as me. He stayed by my side. Because of him, I didn’t become a total wreck. If he hadn’t been there… I might not even be here now. Having someone by your side is bigger than you might think.”

Akira had shouldered burdens I couldn’t, saving me from a darker path. Just having someone to talk to had lightened my load. “I know Charl had a wound in her heart and how deep it was,” I continued. “That’s why I’m sure of it.

The reason Charl can smile like she does now is because you were there for her.”

“Me…?” Livi’s voice was weak, uncertain.

She likely couldn’t pinpoint what she’d done. Being with someone daily makes it hard to notice gradual changes, especially since she felt she hadn’t fully helped Charl recover.

“Charl had that wound,” I said, “but from the moment she came to Japan, she was smiling and enjoying herself.”

I’d never forget Charl’s smile when she introduced herself—it stole my heart. I saw that same genuine smile countless times as she cared for Emma-chan. “I think she was able to recover that much because you stayed by her side.”

“There’s no way to know that…” Livi protested, lacking confidence. “There were a few weeks between Lottie going to Japan and meeting you, so she might’ve gotten better during that time…”

She was denying it, but deep down, she likely knew. If Charl hadn’t recovered over years, a few weeks wouldn’t have miraculously fixed her without a contrived twist. I was certain Livi was the key.

“I know,” I said firmly. “Because for Charl, you’re what Akira is to me.”

Just as Charl and Livi were childhood friends, so were Akira and me. Both Charl and I had carried wounds, and Livi and Akira had stood by us through it all. That’s why I’d brought up Akira earlier—to make this point.

“Ah…” Livi let out a soft gasp, her mouth slightly open, as if my words had finally clicked.

“Thank you for supporting Charl all this time,” I said, smiling with gratitude. “I’d be happy if you keep supporting her going forward.”

And then—

“Yeah…! Yeah…!”

Livi nodded repeatedly, her smile radiant as tears streamed down her face, her emotions spilling over in the quiet night.

◆◆◆

“Well then, Charlotte-san, see you later,”

“Thank you for inviting us today. It was a lot of fun,”

As night fell and we finished dinner together, Charl’s birthday party drew to a close. Kaguya-san had arranged a limousine to drive everyone home, and one by one, the guests bid Charl farewell and departed.

“Akihito, catch ya later,” Akira called out, waving casually.

“Yeah, thanks for today. Sorry for dragging you into this,” I replied, scratching the back of my neck.

“No biggie. I got to eat tons of good food, and it was fun in its own way,” he said with a grin before heading off.

Shimizu-san and Kousaka-san had given him the cold shoulder, but Kanon-san smoothed things over with her usual grace.

“Onii-chan, see you…?” Karin said softly, approaching me a bit later.

“Yeah, come back tomorrow,” I assured her.

Though she was heading home tonight, it had been decided during the party that Karin would sleep over tomorrow night. She had plans with her parents during the day, so she’d only arrive in the evening. Another day might’ve worked, but Karin seemed eager to stay over soon.

“Mmm…♪ Bye-bye,” she chirped, offering a small wave before leaving, her smile bright. She used to resent not living together, but it seemed she’d made peace with it.

“Man, even with Lottie around, you’re quite the player, Akihito,” Livi teased, sidling up with a mischievous smirk.

“Player?” I echoed, raising an eyebrow.

“That girl with the bangs seems super attached to you, huh? Lottie may not look it, but she’s crazy jealous, so you’d better watch out, or it’ll get scary~” she said, poking my cheek with her index finger.

Since our talk on the balcony, I felt we’d grown closer, her playful jabs more familiar now.

“Livi? Could you refrain from putting strange ideas in A-kun’s head?” Charl’s voice cut in sharply.

“Eek, Lottie!?” Livi squeaked, startled.

Charl, who’d been seeing guests off at the entrance, had appeared behind Livi, her hands resting on Livi’s shoulders. Despite her bright smile, an odd pressure radiated from her. Those sharp ears of hers must’ve caught Livi’s words, drawing her over.

“My jealousy is a thing of the past. Please rest assured,” Charl said, her smile unwavering.

“Haha, is that so~?” Livi replied, sweating under the strain.

Perhaps because they’d been friends since childhood, Charl’s demeanor with Livi was different—less guarded than with me or Shimizu-san and the others. Still, one thing was clear: Charl’s jealousy was very much alive. I kept that thought to myself, though, knowing she’d pout if I said it aloud.

“Alright, alright, you two get along great, but everyone’s waiting,” I interjected, using the excuse to gently pull Charl away from Livi. The limousine was ready to take Livi back to her hotel, and the others couldn’t leave until she did.

“Ah… Can you really not stay over…?” Charl asked, her expression suddenly lonely.

It had been a while since their reunion, and she clearly craved more time with her friend.

“Canceling now would inconvenience the hotel staff, so it can’t be helped,” Livi replied with a wistful smile, mirroring Charl’s gaze.

Before coming to Japan, Livi had likely booked the hotel without considering a sleepover, weighed down by guilt toward Charl. Now, with that burden lifted, she seemed to want to stay close too.

“I wanted to talk more…” Charl murmured, her voice tinged with regret.

In truth, she’d barely gotten to speak with Livi. After our balcony talk, Livi had spent time composing herself, hiding her tears. Later, perhaps wary of raising suspicions, she stuck by me, keeping Emma-chan company instead of joining Charl.

“Hmm, for all that, it kinda felt like you were ignoring me the whole time?” Livi teased, flashing a cheeky grin to lighten the mood.

Charl’s eyes widened in panic. “N-No, that’s because you were acting like you didn’t want to talk…!”

“Haha, I know. You’re as serious as ever, Lottie,” Livi said, stepping forward to wrap Charl in a gentle hug.

Her affection for Charl was unmistakable, and seeing two close friends cherish each other warmed my heart.

“How long will you be in Japan…?” Charl asked softly.

“I’ll head back to England after spending New Year’s in Japan,” Livi replied.

Having come all this way, she likely wanted to experience a Japanese New Year before leaving, giving Charl plenty of time to spend with her.

Charl hesitated, as if she wanted to say something but couldn’t. Kind as she was, she’d surely noticed Livi’s odd behavior during the party, though she didn’t know the reason—or that it had been resolved.

“Hey, Lottie. I want to see all sorts of places, so will you show me around?” Livi asked, sensing Charl’s unease and taking the lead.

“—! Yes, of course…!” Charl nodded eagerly, relief flooding her face as she realized she wasn’t being avoided.

It wasn’t quite a reconciliation, but with their misunderstanding cleared, I hoped they’d make the most of their time together.

“Even if you’re staying at a hotel, you’re free to move around, so why not hang out together until you head back to England?” I suggested, watching their exchange.

“A-kun…” Charl breathed, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.

“That’s a bit much. If I come over every day, I’d be in the way, right?” Livi said with a wry smile.

I hadn’t meant every day, but her hesitation wasn’t refusal—just consideration for us, perhaps mindful of intruding on our time as a newly engaged couple during the long break.

“You serious?” I asked, smiling instead of denying it.

“Ugh…” Livi faltered, catching my meaning without words.

“Hey, Lottie. Is Akihito secretly an S?” she whispered to Charl, a touch of annoyance in her tone.

“He’s usually very kind… but, well… he does enjoy teasing me…” Charl replied, fidgeting with her fingers, her cheeks flushed.

Livi’s awkward smile suggested that wasn’t the reaction she’d expected.

“That’s not what I meant… But, well, I guess it’s not entirely wrong,” she muttered.

“—!? N-No, forget what I just said…!” Charl stammered, waving her hands.

Livi grinned and leaned closer, whispering, “Still such a closet perv, huh? How many doujinshi have you added to your collection since coming to Japan?”

“L-L-Livi!? Please don’t bring that up…!” Charl squeaked, her face crimson.

Livi’s teasing was in full swing, her expression gleeful. Though I couldn’t hear her quiet words, Charl’s reaction hinted at something spicy.

“Haha, just kidding. But judging by that reaction, you’ve probably bought a ton more in Japan, huh?” Livi pressed.

“Livi…!” Charl huffed, calling her name in embarrassment.

Satisfied, Livi turned to me. “I didn’t answer earlier. I really do worry about being in the way. But if you and Lottie are okay with it, I’d love to hang out a lot while I’m in Japan.”

Her honest acceptance warmed my heart. Charl would never see Livi as a bother, and neither did I. Living with Charl meant we had plenty of time together, not just during the break. Livi seemed to understand that, her earlier “in the way” comment likely a nod to respecting our couple time. Whether true or not, her thoughtfulness was enough.

“Of course, you’re welcome. Right, Charl?” I said.

“Yes… We’ll come pick you up, so let’s definitely hang out,” Charl agreed, nodding with a radiant smile.

Livi’s face lit up too. We’d sort out the details on the chat app.

“—Akihito, we need to let Olivia-san go soon, or everyone else will be stuck waiting,” Kanon-san called, poking her head out from the living room. In her arms, Emma-chan slept soundly, her face blissful from the feast of cake and food.

“Oh, right,” I said, nodding to Kanon-san before turning to Livi. “Sorry, Livi. Everyone’s waiting, so it’s about time.”

“I forgot…! Alright, Lottie, Akihito, Kanon, Emma, bye-bye!” Livi exclaimed, calling out even to the sleeping Emma-chan before dashing out.

“Hehe… She’s as hectic as ever,” Charl said, gazing fondly at the door Livi had left through.

“Coming all the way to Japan to celebrate—that’s a great friend,” I remarked.

“Yes, she’s my pride and joy. She was super popular at our school in England, always getting confessions from boys,” Charl said, her voice brimming with delight.

With Livi’s charm and outgoing nature, her popularity made sense. Even I, a guy, felt her bold approach, so she likely enchanted countless others without trying.

“As popular as you, huh?” I teased.

“Compared to me? Oh, no, I’m nowhere close,” Charl said, shaking her head.

“Really?” I pressed.

“Yes, I’ve never been confessed to,” she admitted.

Oh, right. Just as no one at our school had confessed to Charl, the same held true in England. Livi had mentioned guys found her too perfect to approach. How I ended up with her still baffled me… though, well, she was the one who confessed.

“But Livi’s never had a boyfriend. It’s not like she’s uninterested in guys, though,” Charl added.

That might be because of Charl. Livi’s devotion to staying by her side likely left little room for romance.

“Well, she’s super popular, so I bet she’ll have a boyfriend soon,” I said, though I secretly hoped she’d connect with Akira, despite the language barrier and her own feelings.

“Hehe… No matter how charming she is, you better not make a move on Livi,” Charl said suddenly, her tone sharp but playful.

Had I said something aloud? I glanced at her, but her happy smile reassured me. If she truly suspected I’d stray, her smile would carry pressure, or she’d seem pouty or anxious. This was just a joke.

“Of course, I’m all about you, Charl,” I said earnestly.

“Yes, I believe you,” she replied, intertwining her fingers with mine, heedless of Kanon-san’s presence.

“A-kun’s an honest gentleman, so he’ll take responsibility, right…♪” Charl murmured, resting her head on my shoulder in high spirits.

I didn’t catch her meaning, but her radiant mood let me brush it off.

◆◆◆

Before bed, Charl’s excitement bubbled over. “Today was so much fun,” she said, hugging me tightly the moment we slipped into bed.

Alone now, she couldn’t hold back her clinginess. Emma-chan, for Charl’s birthday, was with Sophia-san tonight, so we’d need to wake early to fetch her before she stirred.

“I’m glad you had fun. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves too,” I said, gently stroking Charl’s head as I recalled the guests’ satisfied smiles—Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, and the others, all clearly delighted.

“Good job, A-kun. Thank you for doing so much for me,” Charl said softly.

By “so much,” she likely meant planning the party and handling tasks like refilling cakes, snacks, and drinks. I’d organized it hoping she’d enjoy herself, but the behind-the-scenes work was just because my part-time job hadn’t ended yet—not something worth thanking me for.

“Seeing you have fun made me happy too,” I said.

“Hehe… You’re so kind, A-kun,” she murmured, tightening her arms around me and pressing her face into my chest. Her clinginess was utterly adorable.

“I… might’ve eaten that much cake for the first time ever,” she admitted.

“Yeah, you were going all out. Kanon-san doesn’t hold back at times like this,” I said with a chuckle.

Sophia-san had covered the costs, but Kanon-san arranged everything—a top-tier patissier crafting classic shortcakes, chocolate cakes, and intricately designed mont blancs, in quantities far exceeding our needs. Unfamiliar cakes I’d never seen added to the spread, and the girls chatted happily while devouring it all. Akira and I, less keen on sweets, tapped out early. Girls were seriously impressive. The leftovers, too much for us, went to the maids hired by the Himeragi conglomerate.

“I’ll need to start dieting tomorrow,” Charl said.

“Nah, I don’t think that’s necessary…” I replied, eyeing her perfect figure—curved where it mattered, slim where it counted. If anything, she might be a touch too thin.

“You’re too sweet on me, A-kun,” she said, blushing.

“It’s not like that…” I insisted, meaning every word.

Well, I’d let her do what she wanted, but if she overdid it, I’d step in.

“By the way, we’re picking up Livi at the hotel tomorrow at ten, right?” I asked, shifting the topic.

“Yes, at the hotel. Kaguya-san’s providing a car,” Charl confirmed.

“Yeah, it’s great she agreed,” I said.

With Kanon-san busy with year-end and New Year’s obligations starting tomorrow, and Sophia-san returning to England, Kaguya-san had been tasked with overseeing things. Devoted to Kanon-san, she’d initially refused, but Kanon-san’s trust in her swayed her easily. Kanon-san really knew how to handle her.

“Kaguya-san loves you too, A-kun,” Charl said with a smile.

“No way, that’s not true,” I shot back, shaking my head.

Sophia-san had said the same, but Kaguya-san’s rough, harsh treatment—likely resentment over Kanon-san’s attention to me—felt far from affection.

“Love comes in many forms…” Charl teased, rubbing her face against me.

What was that supposed to mean?

“By the way, there’s something I need to ask,” she said suddenly, looking up with a serious preface.

“Uh, saying it like that is kinda scary…?” I admitted.

“Livi kissed you, didn’t she?” she asked, dropping a bombshell.

“—!?” I froze, my reaction betraying me.

“I knew it…” Charl said, puffing out her cheeks in dissatisfaction.

How had she known? Had I slipped up somewhere? My mind raced.

“Livi’s supposed to only kiss girls… You must’ve really caught her eye, A-kun…” Charl said, propping herself up to kiss my cheek, as if erasing Livi’s mark.

“Uh, Charl…? Since when…?” I stammered.

“When Kousaka-san started to say ‘kiss’ and Shimizu-san hurriedly shut her up,” she explained.

Right after we reunited with Livi…!?

“How did you know from just that…? Wouldn’t it be more likely that Livi kissed Kousaka-san?” I asked, grasping at straws.

Knowing Livi well, Charl might’ve been biased by her habit of kissing girls.

“If it was just Kousaka-san getting kissed, there’d be no need for Shimizu-san to silence her,” Charl reasoned.

She was right—if Kousaka-san was just talking about herself, it wouldn’t affect Shimizu-san, so there’d be no reason to stop her. Charl had likely deduced I was the one kissed as the most plausible explanation.

“And Emma’s attitude toward Livi was different. Sure, she’s been interacting with people outside the family lately, but once she decides she dislikes someone or something, time doesn’t change that,” Charl continued.

Emma-chan, pure but stubborn, wouldn’t shift her stance easily. Recalling the domino incident, if she hadn’t wanted to apologize to Charl, she’d likely still avoid dominos. Charl’s deep understanding of her sister saw through our cover.

“It was easy to imagine something caused Emma to change her view of Livi. Maybe… praising how A-kun treats Emma? Emma adores A-kun like a proud big brother, so touching on that would make her happy,” Charl mused.

Close, but not quite. At the ramen shop, Livi had commented on my bond with Emma-chan. Damn… I’d forgotten how sharp Charl was, despite her clinginess.

“Actually, we ate ramen together at a shop, and she did mention my relationship with Emma-chan. But I think Emma-chan warmed up to Livi because she saw her as a ramen buddy or something,” I explained.

Livi’s love for ramen and Emma-chan’s growing fondness for it likely made them kindred spirits. But Charl just smiled, as if to say, “You’re hopeless…”

“Did I say something weird?” I asked.

“No… I just thought that’s so like you, A-kun,” she said.

What did that mean? It felt like a gentle jab.

“So that’s why I thought Livi kissed you. And observing you two, the way Livi acted around you didn’t seem like a first meeting at all. Even if you’re my boyfriend,” Charl said.

We’d been watched, huh? Perhaps she’d held back to preserve the party’s mood or their reunion, but her insight sent chills down my spine.

“You knew about the kiss but don’t seem that upset?” I noted, puzzled by her calm tone.

“I’m upset. Isn’t that obvious?” she retorted, her displeasure clear.

“But you don’t seem… jealous or anything…?” I pressed.

Not entirely, at least. Her kiss to overwrite Livi’s showed some jealousy, but compared to the old Charl—who’d get jealous even of Emma-chan clinging to me—this felt too mild. Learning her best friend kissed me should’ve sent her into a spiral, especially when Livi and I were on the balcony. Normally, she’d have followed, despite Kanon-san’s excuse.

“First, I trust Livi. She might not have known when she kissed you, but once she knew you’re my boyfriend, she wouldn’t try to seduce a taken guy,” Charl explained.

Indeed, when I went to Hiroshima, she’d sent Shimizu-san with me, trusting her despite our alone time, without jealousy or panic. She might not get jealous easily with those she trusts.

“Next, Livi’s a kisser. Even without romantic feelings, there’s a good chance she’d kiss someone. She’s never done it with guys before, but she always kisses close girl friends on the cheek as a greeting, so it’s not surprising she’d kiss a guy she really likes as a thank-you,” Charl continued.

Having grown up with Livi, Charl knew her habits well. Though she’d never seen Livi kiss a guy, she deemed it plausible under the right conditions. It was amusing that Charl, a kisser herself, called Livi one, especially since Livi had kissed her cheek upon reuniting.

“Lastly… my heart’s found some peace…” Charl said shyly, rubbing her stomach.

That gesture sparked a memory.

“Last night… you were so loving, and with the engagement ring… I feel secure now…” she said, her eyes misty with warmth.

My efforts to make it a lifelong memory had an unexpected effect. With her first time and the engagement ring, she felt certain no one could take me away. It was a bit embarrassing to think about.

“If your heart’s calmer now, that’s great. It’s a bit lonely if you stop getting jealous and clinging to me, though,” I admitted.

Jealous, clingy Charl was adorable, and the thought of losing that saddened me slightly. But for her sake, this was better.

“As I said, I am jealous… It’s just not excessive anymore… So I’d be troubled if you stopped spoiling me…” she said, her tone firm.

She had no intention of abandoning her clinginess. Though less intense, her jealousy remained, and she wanted me to address it properly.

“Haha, fair enough,” I said, pulling her into a gentle hug.

That alone made her rub her cheek against me happily.

“By the way… So you didn’t have any trust in me…?” I asked, half-serious.

None of her reasons mentioned trusting me not to cheat.

“Even if you don’t have those intentions, I can’t help but get jealous if the other person does…” she said, pouting slightly.

No matter my loyalty, it didn’t matter if someone else made a move. Still, the engagement ring’s reassurance meant she believed I’d never betray her, so I let it slide.

“Yeah, you’re right… I’ll keep being careful not to make you anxious or jealous,” I promised.

Even with her milder jealousy, avoiding triggers remained key.

“Yet you were alone with Livi?” she said, poking my chest repeatedly.

Oh, she was holding a grudge.

“No, that was…” I began.

“Hehe, just kidding. You did it for me and Livi, right?” she said, her smile softening.

She’d been playful, not serious.

“…How’d you know?” I asked.

I hadn’t explained the balcony talk, as Kanon-san had covered for us, saying Livi teased us about our relationship. Charl shouldn’t know about Livi’s worries, nor did Kanon-san.

“During the party, I noticed Livi’s behavior was off. Normally, even with the language barrier, she’d join in,” Charl said.

Indeed, that was Livi’s nature. Any deviation suggested a reason. Kind-hearted Charl would’ve reached out, but Livi’s odd behavior and unknown motives made her hesitate.

“But when Livi came back after being with you, her expression was so refreshed, like a weight had been lifted. So I knew you’d helped her,” she said.

Her perceptiveness was stunning. Despite being swarmed by Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, and Karin, she hadn’t missed her best friend’s change.

“Helped, huh? I just listened. Didn’t do anything big,” I said modestly.

I’d only heard Livi out and offered a new perspective—nothing noteworthy.

“…You really… solve people’s pain so effortlessly, like it’s nothing… That’s what always saves me… Thank you…” Charl said, closing her eyes and pressing her face into my neck.

She rubbed against me, clinging tightly, then kissed me, her lips lingering with a soft suck.

“Charl…?” I murmured.

“My emotions… got the better of me…” she whispered.

Wait, did that mean…?

Unable to move, she took my hand, squeezing it clingily, her eyes heated with longing.

“Uh, Charl-san…?” I said, voice faltering.

“I can’t hold back… It’s okay, right…?” she asked, reaching for her clothes with a yearning gaze.

I hurriedly grabbed her hand.

“A-kun…?” she said, puzzled.

“Sorry, we can’t… Someone might hear…” I said firmly.

Charl’s moans were anything but quiet—loud, even. She tried to restrain them, but when things intensified, she practically screamed. With others likely to hear, I couldn’t agree, despite my own desire.

“Ugh… I’ll keep my voice down… Should I cover my mouth with a towel…?” she pleaded, her teary eyes desperate.

A towel over her mouth—what a thought. Her look nearly broke me, but I held firm.

“Let’s do it another time when we’re calm. We can’t disturb everyone,” I said, hugging her gently and rubbing her back to soothe her.

Realizing I wouldn’t budge, Charl pressed her face into my chest. “We should’ve gone back to our old place…” she grumbled, rubbing against me resentfully.

After all we’d done last night and this morning… Charl’s libido was just too strong…