Chapter 2 | “A Joyful Reunion”

As the promised hour drew near, I strolled down the street with Charl, our hands clasped like lovers, fingers entwined. Yet, curiously, her left hand bore no engagement ring. For reasons she hadn’t shared, she’d slipped it back into its box before we left the house.

“Is everyone already inside?” I asked.

“Probably,” Charl replied softly. “Kanon-san went to pick them up, I think.”

I had meant to meet them at the station myself, but a message had confirmed Kanon-san had taken care of it. With the birthday party set to begin at three, it seemed likely everyone was already waiting.

“Go on in first,” I urged as we reached the new house.

Charl, ever perceptive, didn’t question me. She reached for the doorknob, finding the door already unlocked, and eased it open.

And then—

““““Happy birthday, Charlotte-san!!””””

A chorus of voices erupted, punctuated by the sharp pop of party crackers. Everyone gathered in the hallway beamed, celebrating Charl’s special day.

“Everyone…” Charl’s voice trembled, her eyes shimmering with tears as she gazed at each familiar face—Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, Karin, Akira, Kanon-san, Kaguya-san. “Thank you so much.”

She bowed deeply, her heartfelt gratitude softening the group’s cheerful smiles into warm, gentle expressions.

“Come on, let’s go inside!” Shimizu-san, ever the leader, seized Charl’s hand, tugging her forward with uncontainable excitement. Her boldness, as if she owned the place, nearly drew a chuckle from me.

“Akihito, don’t just stand there—come in,” Kanon-san called.

I nodded, stepped inside, and locked the door behind me. With Charl, the star of the day, now in everyone’s care, my role shifted to managing things behind the scenes.

“Did you have fun?” Kanon-san asked, kneeling beside me as I slipped off my shoes, her voice a soft whisper.

“Yes, thank you so much. For everything.” Spending Christmas Eve alone with Charl had been possible because Kanon-san had given us the apartment to ourselves. More than that, my life with Charl owed so much to her. She’d looked after me since childhood, and no words could ever express my gratitude.

“It’s just one reward for all your hard work,” she said, brushing off any notion of favor. Her warm smile accompanied a gentle pat on my head.

Instantly, all eyes—Akira’s first among them—turned toward us.

“Ahh, this takes me back to middle school,” Akira said with a wry grin.

“Kanon-senpai used to pat Akihito-senpai’s head like that all the time, didn’t she?” Kousaka-san added, her smile mirroring his.

My face flushed with embarrassment, and I ducked away from Kanon-san’s hand. “Please don’t do that in front of everyone…!”

“So it’s fine when we’re alone?” Shimizu-san quipped, pouncing on my careless words. Her sharp wit never missed a beat. Her narrowed eyes bore into me, glinting with accusation—likely sparked by her protectiveness over Charl. A jealous girl like her couldn’t help but react to such a scene.

I glanced at Charl, bracing for her reaction. “Kanon-oneesan is like Akihito-kun’s older sister, so they’re very close,” she said, her smile serene.

…Huh? I’d expected a pout, maybe even a sulk, but Charl seemed unruffled, even covering for me with surprising composure. Normally, she’d be visibly jealous. Was she putting on a front for the crowd?

A quick look around revealed Shimizu-san and Kousaka-san exchanging puzzled glances. I wasn’t the only one sensing something off.

“Alright, shall we head to the living room? Someone’s eagerly waiting,” Kanon-san announced, clapping her hands to break the awkward pause in the hallway.

That reminded me—Sophia-san and Emma-chan were nowhere in sight. A child like Emma might be napping, but Kanon-san’s tone suggested they were in the living room. We followed her lead, curiosity piqued.

Charl slipped beside me as we walked, her presence staking a subtle claim. Was she jealous of Kanon-san after all? I pondered this as we stepped into the living room. Before the vibrant decorations—origami and balloons—could catch our eyes, a small figure on the sofa stole our attention.

“Muu…!” Emma-chan sat there, cheeks puffed out, eyes brimming with tears.

Uh-oh. This was…

“She’s been like this since we got here,” Kanon-san explained with a wry smile.

Shimizu-san leaned close, her whisper barely audible over the chatter. “Something’s up with Emma-chan, isn’t it?” Her intuition was sharp, but Charl and I had already pieced it together, and the realization tugged at our hearts.

“Come on, Emma, don’t you have something to say?” Sophia-san, seated beside her, gave Emma-chan’s back a gentle nudge.

“Ngh…” Emma-chan hesitated, her small face scrunched in reluctance, but she slid off the sofa and toddled toward us. The room quieted, everyone parting to clear her path, their eyes fixed on her tiny figure.

When she reached us, Emma-chan stopped before Charl, her sulky gaze lifting to meet her sister’s. “Lottie, happy birthday…” Her voice was soft, almost grudging.

I’d been curious what she’d say, but birthday wishes for Charl? Her pouty expression clashed with the sentiment, and Charl and I exchanged a glance, our lips curving into shared smiles. Emma-chan’s grumpiness was clearly at odds with her urge to celebrate her sister, a tangle of emotions playing out on her small face.

“Thank you, Emma.” Charl’s voice was warm as she crouched down, her hand gently ruffling Emma-chan’s hair. Her smile radiated delight at her little sister’s effort.

“Ngh…” Emma-chan didn’t pull away, letting herself be petted, her expression softening into quiet contentment. Despite her frustration with Charl, she clearly reveled in the affection. After a moment, as if declaring herself satisfied, she slipped out from under Charl’s hand and latched onto my leg, clinging tightly. It seemed she wanted to be spoiled to make up for feeling left out.

Since either Sophia-san or I was tasked with watching Emma-chan to keep Charl’s birthday party running smoothly, I scooped her into my arms. Perhaps sensing the distance, she pressed her cheek against mine, her small arms wrapping tightly around my neck.

“You’re so good with kids… almost like a real parent,” Kousaka-san murmured, her eyes fixed on us from across the room.

“Hey.” Shimizu-san’s elbow found Kousaka-san’s side in a swift jab, a silent warning not to say careless things with Sophia-san nearby. Kousaka-san, oblivious to the cue, shot her a disgruntled look.

“Today’s Charlotte-san’s birthday,” Kanon-san whispered to Charl and me, her voice low and in Japanese, likely to keep Emma-chan from understanding. “Onee-sama has been telling Emma-chan to let Akihito spend the day with Charlotte-san. But since Charlotte-san will be busy during the party, please keep Emma-chan calm by spoiling her until it’s over.”

Sophia-san, who cared as much for Charl’s happiness as Emma-chan’s, must have persuaded her. From Emma-chan’s perspective, being sidelined yesterday and now losing my attention today probably fueled her frustration. It was clear I’d need to soothe her through the party.

“They look so happy… I’m jealous…” Akira, watching silently, stared at us with unguarded envy, his face inching uncomfortably close to mine.

“Dude, too close,” I said, stepping back. I understood his jealousy, but why the proximity?

“When will my spring come…?” Akira’s shoulders slumped as he shuffled away, dejected.

“Why is this guy even here…?” Kousaka-san muttered, her exasperation palpable as she watched him go. I’d invited him, so maybe I owed him an apology.

“Alright, shall we start the birthday party?” Kanon-san’s voice cut through the room. “We’ve prepared plenty of cake, snacks, and drinks.” At her cue, everyone settled onto the new sofa arranged for the occasion.

I had to help with serving cake and refilling drinks, which meant stepping away from Charl. “Charl, sit wherever you—”

—Ding-dong♪

The intercom’s chime interrupted me. A delivery, maybe something I’d ordered online? As I wondered, Kanon-san’s lips curved into a knowing smile, her gaze flicking to Charl.

“Charlotte-san, I’m sorry, but could you get that?”

It was an odd request, asking the birthday girl to step away. The others exchanged puzzled looks—normally, it’d be unthinkable. But Charl, ever kind, nodded with a gentle smile. “Yes, understood.”

She likely agreed without a second thought, trusting Kanon-san’s request. But there was more to this. Kanon-san wouldn’t send the star of the party away without reason, and Kaguya-san, who’d usually leap to take her place, remained still. It was deliberate—a plan.

It’s an obvious surprise for Kanon-san, but it’s probably a gift for Charl. “I’ll go with you,” I said, suspecting it might be something heavy. If Kanon-san had arranged a large gift, expecting me to help, it wouldn’t be fair to let Charl handle it alone.

I handed Emma-chan to Sophia-san, who looked a touch sad as Emma-chan resisted the transfer. Guilt pricked at me. “Sorry, during your birthday party and all,” I said to Charl.

“No, it’s fine,” she replied, her smile reassuring as she unlocked the door and reached for the knob.

As the door swung open—

“Lottie, happy birthday!!” A blonde girl with twin tails burst in, her voice brimming with enthusiasm as she threw herself into Charl’s arms.

“W-Wah…!” Charl, caught off guard and not the most athletic, nearly toppled backward. I hurried to steady her from behind.

But more shocking—why was she here? “You startled me, Livi…!” Charl exclaimed, naming the girl clinging to her.

Yes—Livi, the same girl we’d met while buying the engagement ring. “Ehehe… It’s been a while, Lotti,” Livi chirped, her joy at the reunion evident as she tightened her arms around Charl’s neck, rubbing her cheek against hers.

Charl, still dazed, managed, “I-It’s been a while, but why are you in Japan…? When did you get here…?”

Her reaction made it clear she hadn’t expected Livi. Was Kanon-san behind this, inviting Livi as a surprise? No, Kanon-san didn’t know Charl personally enough to know Livi. While I wasn’t sure about Sophia-san and Livi’s connection, Livi’s boldness suggested she’d come on her own for a surprise visit.

“So cold!” Livi huffed, puffing out her cheeks in an exaggerated pout. “It’s only natural for a best friend to come celebrate your birthday, right?” Charl, still enveloped in her hug, couldn’t see her expression.

Livi’s gaze flicked to me, and upon meeting my eyes, she flashed a mischievous smile and winked. She’d likely pieced together my connection with Charl from the start. To think the person she’d mentioned was Charl… Given her age, hometown, and trip to Okayama, I should’ve considered it.

Especially since Livi’s demeanor had shifted after seeing Emma-chan. Did Emma-chan know her too? But if so, why hadn’t Emma-chan reacted to her? No spark of recognition crossed her face when Livi appeared.

“I never imagined you’d come all the way to Japan…” Charl said, her voice softening. “If you’d told me, I could’ve come to meet you…”

“That wouldn’t be fun, would it?” Livi grinned. “I wanted to surprise you, so this is perfect. I had your new address too.”

They’d clearly been in touch, given Livi knew Charl’s new address. Charl’s polite tone remained, but her words carried a relaxed ease absent with Shimizu-san and the others. Above all, her genuine happiness, despite her confusion, spoke to their closeness.

I considered suggesting we move to the living room—standing in the doorway wasn’t ideal—but interrupting their reunion felt tactless. I decided to let them talk a bit longer.

“You don’t speak Japanese and barely knew Japan,” Charl said, concern lacing her voice. “Wasn’t it hard to get here…?”

“Heh, there are apps for that now,” Livi boasted. “It was a piece of cake. Well, I didn’t want to get lost on your birthday, so I came early to scope out the place.”

Her pride was endearing, especially knowing how distressed she’d been when we met. She’d come for Charl’s birthday but arrived five days early to familiarize herself with the area. Her “sightseeing” excuse was likely just that—an excuse. Impulsive and carefree as she seemed, Livi was surprisingly thorough.

“Really, you always surprise me, Livi…” Charl murmured, a fond smile breaking through her shock.

“Hehe, score!” Livi giggled, then leaned in. “By the way, it’s really been a while—chu!”

“Wha…!?” I couldn’t help the sound that escaped when Livi planted a kiss on Charl’s cheek, a vivid memory of her kissing mine flashing through my mind.

“Ah… My boyfriend is watching…” Charl glanced at me, her cheeks flushing as she gently urged Livi to stop.

“It’s just a greeting, isn’t it? Though you’ve never done it to me, Charl,” Livi teased, her voice light but pointed.

“That’s true, but…” Charl hesitated, her cheeks faintly pink.

“Okay, okay, I get it. You don’t want your boyfriend to misunderstand, right?” Livi pouted playfully but stepped back with a grin, giving Charl space.

Charl smoothed her disheveled clothes, straightened her posture, and turned to me with a gentle smile. “A-kun, sorry for the late introduction. This is Olivia Kenny-san, my close friend from England.”

Assuming Livi and I were meeting for the first time, Charl introduced her in English, likely for Livi’s sake since she didn’t speak Japanese. Livi matched the gesture, raising her right hand to her forehead in a mock salute. “Nice to meet you, I’m Olivia Kenny. Call me Livi. I’ve been friends with Lottie since we were kids,” she said, flashing a warm smile and a playful wink.

She was keeping our prior meeting a secret, acting as if this was our first encounter. I could’ve revealed the truth, but Livi likely had her reasons—and since Charl finding out about that kiss would spell trouble for me, I decided to play along.

“Livi, this is Akihito Aoyagi-kun, who I told you about on the chat app. He’s… my boyfriend…” Charl’s voice softened, her face flushing as she said “boyfriend.” Her shy nature made it clear how embarrassing it was to say it aloud, especially to her best friend. Livi’s teasing grin probably didn’t help.

“Nice to meet you, I’m Akihito Aoyagi, Charl’s boyfriend. Please take care of me, Livi-san,” I said, offering a polite smile while maintaining the pretense.

“Haha, just as I heard, you’re super serious!” Livi laughed. “We’re the same age, so drop the honorifics and talk casually. Besides, Livi’s just a nickname.”

She’d said the same thing when we first met, and now I could slip back into that familiar tone. “Got it, Livi.”

“Nice to meet you too, Akihito.” Livi’s tone was warm, but she didn’t try to kiss me this time. It seemed she respected boundaries when it came to taken guys.

“—Shouldn’t you all come inside soon?” Kanon-san’s voice interrupted as she appeared at the door, likely checking on us since we hadn’t returned. She didn’t seem surprised by Livi’s presence, so Charl being sent to the door probably had something to do with her. Perhaps Kanon-san or Kaguya-san had run into Livi while she was confirming the house’s location and arranged this.

“I need to introduce Livi to everyone,” Charl said, her eyes sparkling with excitement at reuniting with her friend. But Livi gave a troubled smile. “Nah, it’s your birthday party, Lottie. I’m happy just celebrating with you directly.” She was likely worried about stealing the spotlight. Despite her bold, pushy demeanor, she was considerate in her own way—completely different from the Livi who’d teased me earlier.

“No way, I want to introduce you,” Charl insisted, puffing out her cheeks and grabbing Livi’s arm. It was a rare, assertive side of her, showing just how much Livi meant to her.

“Ugh, I can never win when you’re like this, Lottie…” Livi sighed, raising the white flag as Charl dragged her along. Their contrasting personalities made me chuckle as I followed them inside.

But the moment Charl brought Livi into the room— “Ah…!” Shimizu-san and Kousaka-san gasped in unison, recognizing Livi instantly.

“Huh?” Charl, caught off guard by their reaction, tilted her head curiously.

This could be bad. As the thought crossed my mind, Kousaka-san opened her mouth— “Ki—ow!”—only for Shimizu-san to clamp a hand over it.

“What was that!?” Kousaka-san, her mouth covered, glared at Shimizu-san with teary eyes.

“There was a bug,” Shimizu-san said flatly.

“It’s winter! And if there was, you’d swat it, not cover my mouth!” Kousaka-san’s anger flared at the flimsy excuse.

Shimizu-san wasn’t joking, though—she couldn’t risk the truth slipping out. At this distance, even a whisper might reach Charl’s sharp ears. But I couldn’t let Shimizu-san take the fall alone.

“Kousaka-san, it’s Charl’s birthday party, so let’s keep things calm,” I said, using the party as an excuse to diffuse the tension. I’d explain the real reason later via the chat app.

“Ah… I’m sorry…” Kousaka-san blushed and looked down, chastised. I felt a pang of guilt, but it was necessary. Karin, sitting across from her, fidgeted nervously, clearly wanting to say something but holding back. As her brother, I quietly wished she’d find the courage to speak up in moments like this.

“Um… Kaede-chan, are you okay…?” Charl asked, her voice laced with concern.

“Y-Yes…” Kousaka-san replied faintly.

Livi’s gaze lingered on Kousaka-san, then shifted to Shimizu-san with equal intensity. Her eyes widened as realization dawned. She must’ve remembered running into them at the ramen shop and only now connected the dots. Her eyes met mine, and with her free hand, she gestured an apologetic *Sorry!* Since she was behind Charl, who was still pulling her along, Charl didn’t notice.

I nodded with a smile, signaling *It’s fine.* Livi patted her chest in relief. Seeing her like this, she really didn’t seem like a bad person—fitting for Charl’s best friend.

Lost in thought, I didn’t notice Charl’s gaze fixed on me.

◆ ◆ ◆

“—I’m okay now…” A few minutes later, Kousaka-san looked up, an ice pack wrapped in a towel pressed to her mouth at Kanon-san’s suggestion. It probably wasn’t necessary, but it had shifted the mood and given her time to calm down. Now we could finally start the birthday party.

Just then, my sleeve was tugged. Looking down, I saw Emma-chan, who’d been in Sophia-san’s arms earlier, now standing before me with her arms outstretched. This clever girl had noticed my hands were free after preparing the ice pack and towel, and she’d been waiting for her moment.

“Hug,” she demanded.

“Yeah, got it,” I said, lifting her with a smile.

“Ngh…” Even though we’d only been apart briefly, Emma-chan rubbed her cheek against mine as if reuniting after years, clinging tightly. Her adorableness was overwhelming.

“It’s amazing… Emma being this clingy with someone other than Lottie…” Livi said, clearly impressed.

“She’s even clingier with A-kun than with me,” Charl added with a wry smile.

Livi’s words slipped out carelessly, and I worried she might accidentally reveal something. Perhaps reacting to their voices, Emma-chan pulled back from my cheek and sat up, turning toward Livi.

“Ngh…!” Noticing her for the first time, Emma-chan raised her hand energetically. Since they’d bonded over ramen, Livi might’ve earned a spot in Emma-chan’s “ramen friend” category.

“Yo, Emma,” Livi replied with a gentle smile and a wave.

Emma-chan had been cold toward Livi initially, but now they seemed like good friends. The ramen effect was undeniable.

But— “Emma greeted Livi…!?” Charl’s shocked voice cut through the heartwarming moment.

“Why are you so surprised…?” Her extreme reaction prompted me to ask. Not just me—everyone, including Emma-chan and Livi, turned to Charl.

“Ah, no…” Charl averted her gaze, fidgeting with her hair awkwardly. It was hard to see her behavior as anything but suspicious.

Livi, sensing the tension, scratched her cheek and explained with a sheepish smile. “Haha… The thing is, Emma used to hate me.”

“Huh, why…?” I asked. Livi didn’t strike me as a bad person. She might be loud, but “hate” felt like a strong word.

“Back when Lottie was in England, I visited her house a lot. When I was there, Lottie would talk to me, so Emma couldn’t have her all to herself, right? That’s why Emma didn’t like me.”

That was the reason? I was skeptical, but Charl’s apologetic expression confirmed it. When we saw Livi at Okayama Station, Emma-chan hadn’t reacted like she recognized her. Perhaps her look wasn’t *Who’s this?* but *Why is she here?*

I recalled Emma-chan’s early days in Japan, when she’d search for Charl if she wasn’t around or cry if Charl wasn’t there when she woke up. Her attachment to her sister was intense. If she only opened up to family, Livi might’ve seemed like an intruder stealing her beloved sister. Charl’s comment about Emma-chan not getting along with outsiders likely referred to Livi.

This was bad. The pieces weren’t aligning. Even if Livi and I pretended to meet for the first time, Emma-chan’s changed attitude toward Livi couldn’t be easily explained, and Charl’s suspicion would likely linger.

What to do…? As I scrambled for an answer, Livi threw me a lifeline. “Like Lottie told me on the chat app, maybe it’s because Emma’s started opening up to people outside the family?”

Apparently, Charl had shared Emma-chan’s changes with Livi. I seized the opportunity. “Yeah, that could be it. She’s started waving back to the neighborhood aunties too, so maybe Emma-chan’s view of Livi has changed. Right, Emma-chan?”

I directed the question to Emma-chan, who, not following the conversation, looked at us blankly but nodded vigorously when I spoke. “Ngh…! Livi, friend…!” She wasn’t playing along—she genuinely saw Livi as a friend. I’d worried she might say “ramen friend,” but her brevity saved us.

“I see, that makes sense,” Charl said, seemingly convinced by our words and Emma-chan’s enthusiastic nod.

Phew, crisis averted. Relieved, I urged Charl and Livi to sit on the sofa and carried Emma-chan to the dining area.

“…”

“—Um, I didn’t catch what they were saying since it was in English, but Charlotte-senpai is staring at Akihito-senpai…?” Kousaka-san’s voice reached me faintly.

“Shh, it’s better not to poke at things like this. Curiosity killed the cat, you know,” Shimizu-san hushed her.

“Huh?” Kousaka-san sounded confused.

I thought I heard my name and glanced toward them, but both looked away. My imagination?

“I’ll head back to my room then,” Sophia-san said, drawing my attention.

“Oh, you’re not joining us?” I’d assumed she’d stay, given her presence in the living room.

“Having an old lady around would make everyone uncomfortable, wouldn’t it?” Sophia-san shrugged with a wry smile.

She had a point—since she was essentially Charl’s mom, her presence might make the others feel awkward. Kanon-san and I were used to her, so I hadn’t considered it until she mentioned it. Noticing my understanding, Sophia-san addressed everyone on the sofa. “Thank you all for gathering today for my daughter’s sake. As Kanon-chan mentioned earlier, we’ve prepared plenty of cake, snacks, and drinks, so please help yourselves. If you need more, just let Akihito-kun know, and we’ll get it ready. Enjoy yourselves.”

With that, she left the living room, ignoring the hurried bows from the group. She’d directed them to me instead of Kaguya-san, knowing first-timers found Kaguya-san’s cool demeanor intimidating. Even Akira and Kousaka-san, who weren’t strangers, hesitated around her, so they’d come to me instead. My behind-the-scenes role and ongoing part-time job contract partly explained it, but I’d already enjoyed plenty last night and this afternoon, and I’d be with Charl after the party too.

“Shall we start with the birthday song?” Kanon-san prompted, and we all sang the classic tune. When it ended, everyone’s eyes turned to me. Last time, Charl had said it, but now it was my job to call out, “Hip, hip!”

As I did, Kanon-san, Emma-chan, and Livi, who knew the tradition, along with the Japanese group I’d prepped, shouted, “Hooray!” The Japanese group, except Kanon-san, was visibly embarrassed by the unfamiliar custom, but they shouted loudly. Livi and Emma-chan cheered with glee, and I realized Charl was surrounded by truly great friends.

◆ ◆ ◆

“Who’s going first?” After the song, Charl blew out the cake’s candles, and before digging in, we decided to exchange presents. Shimizu-san glanced around the group.

“I’ve already given mine, so decide among yourselves,” Kanon-san said, revealing she’d given Charl her gift earlier.

Assuming I’d done the same, Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, and Akira began discussing. Karin, however, didn’t join them and approached me instead. “Um… Do you think Charlotte-san will dislike my present…?” Her voice trembled with anxiety, her shyness making her worry about Charl’s reaction.

“Do you think Charl’s the type to dislike a present from someone celebrating her?” I asked gently.

“Ah…” Karin’s eyes widened, as if realizing something. Instead of reassuring her with a generic *She’ll love it*, pointing out Charl’s kind nature resonated more with her. Knowing Charl wouldn’t judge her gift harshly, Karin’s worry seemed to ease.

“It’s fine to go after Akira and the others, but make sure you give it to her,” I encouraged, nudging her forward.

“Okay…!” Karin nodded firmly and headed toward Akira’s group but didn’t join their discussion, likely waiting for them to go first. As long as she was growing, even slowly, that was enough.

The discussion grew heated but eventually settled. Shimizu-san grabbed a present and approached Charl, with Kousaka-san joining her. “Here, Charlotte-san. This is from both of us,” Shimizu-san said.

“We picked out some clothes that might suit you, Charlotte-senpai,” Kousaka-san added.

It seemed they’d bought the gift together, possibly during their time at Okayama Station. “Thank you so much, I’m really happy,” Charl said, holding the present gently and smiling.

“Can I open it?” she asked.

“Of course!” Shimizu-san nodded with a smile.

“I hope you like it…” Kousaka-san said, a hint of worry in her voice.

Charl carefully unwrapped the gift, revealing a fluffy white sweater. “—Oh, it looks so warm,” she said, her eyes lighting up. It was perfect for the season and incredibly soft, though I’d expected something more mature from them. Still, the cute design suited Charl perfectly—she looked adorable in anything.

“We talked a lot, but besides suiting Charlotte-san, we chose something Aoyagi-kun would like,” Shimizu-san explained.

“Since Charlotte-senpai would care most about how Akihito-senpai sees her,” Kousaka-san added.

So that was their reasoning. I did prefer youthful, age-appropriate clothes over mature ones, and their thoughtful choice reflected their understanding of Charl. “Thank you…” Charl said, blushing as she gazed at the sweater, clearly delighted.

“—Ugh, that’s why I said let me go first…!” Akira’s groan shattered the warm atmosphere. I understood his frustration—their gift had set a high bar.

“A guy who’s not her boyfriend shouldn’t go first, right?” Shimizu-san shot back.

“Charlotte-senpai would be happy with any present, so guys shouldn’t sweat the small stuff,” Kousaka-san added, her tone sharp.

Their cold glares hit Akira hard, and Shimizu-san’s rare harshness was particularly striking. “Both of you, ease up on him…” I said, stepping in to diffuse the tension. Akira’s grateful look said *Thanks for the save*.

“I’m just happy to receive any present,” Charl added, covering for Akira. Her words were likely genuine—she’d appreciate any gift given with kindness.

“Alright then… It’s nothing special, but here,” Akira said, slightly formal as he handed Charl a small bag.

“Thank you. May I open it?” Charl asked with a smile, and Akira gave a small nod, his lack of confidence puzzling me.

Curious, Shimizu-san and the others watched as Charl slowly opened the bag, reaching inside without looking. Her gentle smile suggested she’d figured out the contents by touch. She pulled out a soft, pink-based handkerchief.

“You said you liked pink before, so…” Akira explained quickly, likely recalling Charl’s preferences from when he’d pursued her.

“Thank you, it’s lovely,” Charl said, gazing at the handkerchief with the same joy as she had for Shimizu-san’s gift.

“A handkerchief, huh? Kind of unexpected,” Shimizu-san said.

“Right? I totally thought Saionji-senpai would pick something weird,” Kousaka-san added bluntly.

“You guys are harsh!” Akira retorted, exasperated.

“Hehe…” Charl giggled, as if watching a comedy skit, but I inwardly shivered at the girls’ sharpness.

Then, I noticed Kaguya-san’s narrowed eyes and Kanon-san’s wry smile. “A handkerchief as a present isn’t exactly normal…” Kanon-san whispered.

“It’s a handkerchief, after all. Well, people give them without thinking much these days, so it’s fine. Saionji-kun probably chose it seriously,” Kaguya-san murmured.

“Even if he picked it unaware, it ironically reflects his feelings for Charlotte-sama…” Kanon-san added.

Their whispers piqued my curiosity—was there something significant about a handkerchief? It was practical and thoughtful, but I made a mental note to look it up later.

“Next… My turn…” Karin stepped forward hesitantly, and everyone held their breath, watching her carefully to avoid startling her. The silence felt heavy, but Karin seemed unfazed. “Um, this… Here…” She extended a plastic bag, her hand trembling slightly.

“Thank you, Karin-chan,” Charl said warmly, calling her by name to acknowledge her courage. Karin’s face broke into a goofy smile, clearly thrilled.

“Can I open it?” Charl asked.

“Ngh…!” Karin nodded vigorously, her enthusiasm endearing.

Charl opened the bag, and her eyes widened in surprise, freezing her in place. Everyone watched curiously. “U-Um, Charlotte-san…? Was it… bad…?” Karin asked, her voice trembling with worry.

“Did you make this yourself, Karin-chan?” Charl asked, her expression softening into a kind smile.

“Y-Yes… I’m sorry… It’s weird, right…?”

“Weird? Not at all. This is the first time I’ve received something so amazing handmade,” Charl said, slowly pulling out the contents—a handmade doll modeled after me.

“Wow…! That’s Aoyagi-kun, right!? Handmade!?” Shimizu-san exclaimed.

“I heard you were good at making stuffed toys, but you made this!?” Kousaka-san added, stunned.

“A high school student made that alone at home…? That’s no ordinary skill…!” Kaguya-san said, impressed.

“Capturing Akihito’s features while keeping the doll’s cuteness and making it visually appealing… Karin-chan has remarkable talent and skill,” Kanon-san praised.

The doll’s craftsmanship was undeniable, showcasing Karin’s incredible skill. “I… didn’t know what present would make her happy… But stuffed toys… Emma-chan liked them… and A—Onii-chan praised them too…” Karin said, calling me *Onii-chan* since only Livi, who didn’t speak Japanese, was unaware of our relation. The group’s amazement seemed to bolster her confidence. “But… a cat would overlap with what I gave Emma-chan… I thought about other animals… something Charlotte-san would like most… But I couldn’t think of anything… Then I thought… a stuffed toy of Onii-chan… might make Charlotte-san happy…”

“Yes, I’m so happy… I’ll treasure it forever…” Charl said, hugging the doll tightly, her eyes tearing up with genuine joy.

“I’m glad… you like it…” Karin sighed in relief, her anxieties eased by Charl’s reaction.

In my heart, I cheered, *Good job, Karin,* and glanced at Livi, who’d been watching quietly. Not understanding Japanese, she might’ve felt left out, but her restraint was unexpected. She might have a present too, so I decided to check. “Livi, everyone’s given their gifts. Do you have something?”

“Ah, sorry. I actually forgot,” Livi said with a troubled smile.

*Forgot*, not just didn’t prepare? The word nagged at me. Would someone who traveled to Japan for Charl’s birthday forget a gift? Her demeanor felt off, but since gifts weren’t mandatory, I didn’t press further.

“So, that’s it for the present time?” I said, trying to wrap things up.

“What are you talking about? The finale’s still coming, right?” Shimizu-san interjected.

“Ah… She said to skip her for now—” I started, thinking she meant Livi.

“No, no,” Shimizu-san said, shaking her head in exasperation. “Why do you think we saved the last spot? The grand finale has to be the boyfriend’s present, right?”

I realized they’d deliberately left me for last to close the event with the boyfriend’s gift, making it a perfect conclusion. But I’d already given mine… As I hesitated, Charl spoke softly. “Actually, I’ve already received it.”

“What, really!? Aoyagi-kun, why’d you jump the gun!?” Shimizu-san complained, likely wondering why I hadn’t waited for the party’s gift-giving moment.

“Since you live together, you had plenty of chances to give it, so it’s Akihito-senpai’s choice when to do it,” Kousaka-san said, defending me. Akira nodded in agreement.

But Shimizu-san, unconvinced, shot me a dissatisfied look. I was definitely in for a lecture later. As the mood tensed slightly, Charl stood from the sofa, drawing everyone’s attention. She walked slowly toward me and pulled out a small box—the one containing the ring. I understood why she’d taken it off.

“Can you do it?” she asked, her eyes nervous but resolute. She seemed calm, but the act was likely overwhelming for her.

Doing this in front of everyone was embarrassing, but I couldn’t back down after she’d gone this far. “Of course. Kanon-san, please take Emma-chan,” I said, handing the sleeping Emma-chan to Kanon-san. Taking the box from Charl, I pulled out the engagement ring.

“Is that…!?” Kousaka-san gasped.

“No way, for real!?” Shimizu-san exclaimed.

“Akihito, you’re insane!” Akira said, stunned.

“Heh… Impressive,” Livi said, smiling with satisfaction.

Being the center of attention was, as expected, mortifying. “Charl, hold out your left hand,” I said.

“Yes…” Charl extended her left hand, just as she had last night. I took her hand and slid the engagement ring onto her ring finger.

“This is the present I received from A-kun…” Charl said, showing the back of her left hand to everyone, her face flushed but her smile radiant.

“An engagement ring as a birthday present!? Aoyagi-kun, that’s too bold!” Shimizu-san cried.

“Wow, congratulations…! It’s so beautiful…!” Kousaka-san said, awestruck.

“Whoo! Are you two already getting married!?” Akira cheered.

“Onii-chan and Onee-chan are so grown-up…!” Karin added softly.

Everyone’s warm, teasing comments enveloped us, and Charl, her face red, clung happily to my arm. This was likely the reaction she’d hoped for, and I couldn’t help but feel her joy mirrored my own.

“Hey, let me get a closer look…!”
“Whoa, a pink diamond!?”

Shimizu-san and Kousaka-san eagerly leaned in, their eyes fixed on Charl’s left hand. Akira, a step behind, joined the huddle, and when I noticed Karin hesitating, her gaze longing but shy, I waved her over. She lit up and hurried to join the group, everyone peering at the ring with rapt curiosity.

Only Emma-chan, fast asleep, and Kanon-san, Kaguya-san, and Livi stayed back from the excited circle. It made sense for the ever-composed Kanon-san and Kaguya-san to keep their distance, but Livi’s absence tugged at me. She cared deeply for Charl, yet she held herself apart. When our eyes met, her smile was tinged with loneliness, and she shook her head gently.

The gesture said, I’m fine, but it clashed with my first impression of her. Was I misreading her? Or was something holding her back?

Curiosity gnawed at me, but forcing Livi—who didn’t speak Japanese—into the group felt wrong, especially without understanding her reasons. I didn’t want to risk souring Charl’s joy by prying. Livi had mentioned staying in Japan for two weeks; there’d be time to learn more later.

Pushing the thought aside, I turned my attention to Charl, who was basking in the excitement with Shimizu-san and the others.

“A pink diamond from Ojou-sama’s shop…” Kaguya-san murmured.

“Kaguya, no tactless remarks,” Kanon-san whispered sharply.

“True, some things are better left unsaid…”

Their hushed exchange hinted at secrets, but I let it pass, content to watch Charl’s happiness unfold.