Chapter 5 | I’m an Online Gamer, but When I Went to an Idol’s House, She Started Closing Off My Escape Routes

 

It would’ve been nice if the conversation had ended on that pleasant note.

“Hey, Kazuto-kun. Are you even listening to me?” Rinka’s voice cut through my thoughts.

“Yeah, I’m listening,” I replied, snapping back to reality with a distant look in my eyes. Sitting seiza-style in Rinka’s room, my mind had drifted to old memories.

It had already been a week since I laid my true feelings bare. At first, calling her “Rinka” made my nerves jangle, but people adapt to anything. Now, her name rolled off my tongue without a second thought. And today, Sunday afternoon, another incident—well, something like that—had unfolded.

“Sure, I said I’d wait until you sorted out your feelings,” Rinka said, her tone sharp. “But I never said I’d overlook cheating.”

“Didn’t you say you’d forgive a little cheating?” I countered, scratching my head.

Her eyes narrowed, cold and ruthless as an assassin’s. “You think I wouldn’t get mad when I catch you? Wait, what, did you think it was okay and actually cheat?”

“No, no, I didn’t!” I waved my hands frantically. “It’s a misunderstanding! Sorry for saying something dumb!”

Faced with Rinka’s piercing glare, I bowed my head in apology. How did it even come to this?

Two days ago, Rinka had invited me over. “This Sunday, my family won’t be back until evening. Want to come by around noon? I want to be alone with you.” Her words had set my heart racing as I made my way to her place. Following the address she gave, I arrived at a typical apartment building. My fingers trembled slightly as I pressed the bell. Rinka opened the door, dressed in an outfit so stylish it could’ve leapt from a magazine page—not casual homewear at all.

Could this be…?

My pulse quickened with anticipation and nerves as I stepped inside—

“Today, let’s thoroughly investigate your relationships with other girls, Kazuto-kun.”

My expectations and guy dreams shattered in an instant. If I could just say, “I love you, Rinka!” maybe this would all be resolved. But I wasn’t there yet. Honestly, I was pathetic for being so indecisive.

“Kazuto-kun, you need to realize you’re popular,” Rinka said, her voice firm. “If you acknowledge it, you’ll handle girls better.”

“Popular? Me?” I scoffed. “I’ve never been popular. No girl’s ever come on to me.”

Sure, Rinka seemed to like me, but that started because of our online game. Man, how unpopular was I in real life?

“Look, I’m begging you, don’t make me unfriend my online game buddies,” I pleaded. “I’d end up a total loner…”

“You’ve got me, don’t you?” Rinka replied, tilting her head.

“You can only log in for a few hours on weekends, right? I play with other friends on weekdays.”

“I see… So, you’re telling me to quit being an idol?”

“How did you even get there!?” I exclaimed. “I totally get you’re working hard as an idol, and I support you! I’m a huge fan of Mizuki Rinka—don’t care about any other idols!”

“R-Really…?” Her cheeks flushed faintly. “Thanks.”

My words were no lie. When I watched Star☆Mines’ music videos, my eyes were glued to Rinka, even before I knew Rin’s true identity.

“I want you to keep enjoying your idol career, Rinka. But please, let my friends slide.”

“No way.”

“An instant answer!?” I groaned. “Come on, they’re just friends!”

“I’ve heard stories. Guys who let girls lower their guard end up with lovers all over the place.”

“Who told you that!? That source is twisted.”

“Satoko-san, with eight divorces.”

“Who even is that!? And eight divorces…?” Talk about a wealth of life experience.

“I’m home!” a cute voice called from the entrance. “Rinka-neechan, you there?”

Rinka’s face paled instantly. “N-No way, Nonoa’s back…! She said she’d be out with friends until evening!”

“Your little sister?” I asked.

“Yes. I have a college-age older sister and a first-grade younger sister—but no, this isn’t the time for that! Hurry and hide!”

“Your parents might be an issue, but is it really a problem if your little sister finds out?”

“I want to avoid any risks. Plus, Nonoa’s so innocent, she’s got a loose tongue… Kazuto-kun, hurry and hide!”

“Where?” I glanced around. The tidy room offered few hiding spots—a desk, a bed, a closet, a bookshelf, some miscellaneous stuff. The closet seemed like the best bet with its door.

“Hide in my bed!” Rinka urged.

“Wait, are you sure that’s the right spot? The closet would—”

“Just hurry!”

Maybe her panic clouded her judgment, or maybe there was a reason she didn’t want me in the closet. Either way, she shoved me onto the bed and threw a blanket over me. The scent was pure happiness, warming my cheeks as the door clicked open.

“Oh, Rinka-neechan! You’re home today?” Nonoa’s voice chirped.

“Yes, I’m here,” Rinka replied. “By the way, Nonoa, what’s up? Weren’t you supposed to be out with friends until evening?”

“Well, Aki-chan went home early! So, Rinka-neechan, play with me!”

“R-Right… I’m a bit busy right now, so go to the living room.”

“Okay!”

Hiding under the blanket, I couldn’t see them, but it sounded like Rinka had shooed her away. Now was my chance—

“Oh, there’s a stranger’s shoes at the entrance!” Nonoa exclaimed. “Is one of Rinka-neechan’s friends here?”

Crap. My shoes. A total blind spot.

“Uh, um… That’s none of your business, Nonoa,” Rinka stammered. “Don’t worry about the shoes—”

“Hm…? Oh! Someone’s sleeping in Rinka-neechan’s bed!”

“H-Hey, Nonoa!”

“I wanna play hide-and-seek too!”

Rinka’s voice spiked with panic as footsteps pattered closer. The blanket flew off with a whoosh.

“Ah.”

“Ah.”

My eyes locked with the culprit’s—a little girl with big, round eyes reflecting my face. As Rinka’s sister, she was insanely cute, like a younger Rinka stripped of her cool edge and brimming with innocent charm. Her short twin tails amplified her adorableness.

Nonoa-chan stared, stunned, blinking in confusion. She clearly hadn’t expected a guy. I figured I should break the ice.

“You’re Nonoa-chan, right? Nice to meet you, I’m Ayanokoji Kazuto.”

Greetings matter, especially for first impressions.

“O—”

“O?”

“Neechan brought a guy hoooome!”

Her sweet, adorable scream echoed through the room.

☆

“Wah, wah! A guy! Rinka-neechan brought a guy home!” Nonoa-chan squealed, sounding oddly delighted.

“Nonoa, stop!” Rinka scolded in a firm older-sister tone. “I’ve told you a million times not to say stuff like that!”

I flinched at Nonoa’s line, unexpected from a little girl. “Uh, Nonoa-chan? Do you even know what ‘bringing a guy home’ means?”

“Yeah! It’s what you say when a guy comes to the house, right?” she replied, eyes sparkling.

“Oh, you know it but don’t know it,” I muttered, relieved by her innocent take, like a kid excitedly using a new word.

Nonoa-chan stared up at me intently. “Hm… Kazuto?”

“Yeah, Kazuto.”

“Are you gonna climb with Rinka-neechan now?”

“Climb? Climb where?”

“Um, the adult stairs!”

I nearly choked. “—!”

What kind of question was that, asked with such pure eyes? Nonoa-chan’s clear gaze reflected my twitching face.

“Nonoa, that’s enough!” Rinka snapped, genuinely angry now. Time for big sister to take charge.

“Climbing the adult stairs? That’s a silly question!” Rinka huffed. “We climbed that ages ago!”

“No, that’s not it!” I screamed internally. “We haven’t climbed anything! We were just playing an online game!”

Rinka struck a smug pose while Nonoa-chan beamed, clapping. “Wow! Really? That’s amazing!” These sisters were lost in their own world.

“Just to check, Nonoa-chan, do you know what ‘climbing the adult stairs’ means?” I asked.

“Hm? Um… I don’t know! Tell me!”

“No way,” I refused instantly, despite her cute head tilt.

“Kazuto-kun, don’t mind Nonoa’s weird comments,” Rinka said. “She’s just parroting stuff from a drama without understanding.”

“Yeah, that’s the vibe…” If Nonoa-chan did understand, I’d have questions about the state of the world.

My sleeve tugged from below. Nonoa-chan. “Is Kazuto Rinka-neechan’s boyfriend?”

“Nope.”

“No, we’re not boyfriend and girlfriend,” Rinka added. “We’re husband and wife.”

I sighed. Yeah, I figured.

“Hm? So, if you two are married… does that make Kazuto my big brother?” Nonoa-chan asked.

“Yes, exactly,” Rinka replied.

“Wait, hold on—”

“Yay! I’ve always wanted a big brother! Yay!” Nonoa-chan cheered, arms raised.

I glanced at Rinka, who tilted her head. “What’s wrong, Kazuto-kun? Didn’t you start to say something?”

“…It’s nothing.” Seeing Nonoa-chan’s joy, I couldn’t bring myself to argue. The moat around my heart was filling at breakneck speed.

“Um, so… Kazuto-oniichan…?” Nonoa-chan’s bashful yet excited voice hit me, her cheeks faintly pink as she peeked up.

“…Kazuto-oniichan? Kazuto-oniichan!” She savored the word, repeating it in different tones. She was so cute it hurt.

“Stare.”

“Huh?” I turned to Rinka, who was giving me a blank, unblinking look.

“Kazuto-kun, you like little girls, don’t you?”

“That sounds like it means something else.”

“So you don’t like them?”

“It’s not like I’m especially into them, but—”

“Hm? Kazuto-oniichan, do you hate me? …Sniff.” Nonoa-chan’s eyes welled up, like she was about to cry.

“I-I don’t hate you!” I blurted out. She giggled with an “ehehe.” Adorable.

Rinka’s stare didn’t waver. “As expected, Kazuto-kun’s a lolicon.”

“That’s way too unfair!”

☆

“Hey, Kazuto-oniichan! Next, be a horsie!” Nonoa-chan was super attached now, probably because she was naturally friendly and always wanted a big brother. She beamed, shamelessly asking to play.

“Horsie, horsie!”

“Alright, alright. Hold on tight.” With Nonoa-chan on my back, I crawled around the room on all fours, trying not to show how tough it was on my gamer stamina.

“I was worried at first, but… Kazuto-kun, you’re good with kids,” Rinka said, watching us.

“Am I? I’m just having fun myself…” Nonoa-chan’s abnormally friendly, too. Super cute.

“Next, hug me!” Nonoa-chan demanded, raising her arms.

“Got it.” I slid my hands under her arms and lifted her. Rinka’s eyes widened in surprise.

“That’s rare. Nonoa asking someone outside the family for a hug.”

“She’s just a friendly kid, right?”

“Yes, but even so, she’s never asked anyone else for a hug. …Oh, but since Kazuto-kun’s my husband, it’s fine.”

“I’m pretty sure that’s not related.” Nonoa-chan probably didn’t even grasp my relationship with Rinka.

“Sorry, Nonoa-chan. My arms are getting tired. Can I put you down?”

“Hm… Okay.” Her sad face stung my heart, but I gently set her down.

“Hey, now I wanna play an online game!” Nonoa-chan chirped.

“No, Nonoa. It’s too early for you,” Rinka said firmly.

“It’s not too early!”

“You’re still in first grade, right? At least wait until middle school.”

“That’s not fair, Rinka-neechan! I wanna do it too!”

“No.”

“Ugh… Kazuto-oniichan, please!” Nonoa-chan turned to me, eyes hopeful.

“No, Kazuto-kun,” Rinka interjected. “It’s too early for Nonoa.”

Too early? Were there age restrictions for online games? I didn’t want to meddle in their family rules.

“Kazuto-oniichan…!” Nonoa-chan’s teary, pleading eyes were impossible to resist.

“Rinka, maybe just a little wouldn’t hurt?” I ventured.

“Ugh, you’re too soft.” Rinka sighed. “Fine, but really just a little, okay?”

“Yay! Thank you, Rinka-neechan! I love you, Kazuto-oniichan!” Nonoa-chan bounced with joy, and Rinka’s reluctant expression softened.

Yeah, getting her hooked on games at this age might not be great. …But I was clicking a mouse at four years old.

“Alright, let’s do this.” Rinka started the computer and launched Black Plains, sitting Nonoa-chan in the chair and opening the character creation menu. A fresh start.

“Hm? Um…” Nonoa-chan fumbled with the controls, tweaking her character’s design as Rinka explained gently from the side. Their sisterly bond was clear.

I sat on Rinka’s bed, watching their backs. This was going to take a while.

After nearly thirty minutes, Nonoa-chan’s character was complete—a little girl in a black robe named “Nonoa,” modeled after herself.

“Look, look, Kazuto-oniichan! Isn’t she cute?”

“Yeah, super cute,” I said, and Nonoa-chan smiled happily. “Ehehe!”

The tutorial began. “Um, moving is… this?” Nonoa-chan struggled with the mouse and keyboard, flailing as her character moved on-screen.

She completed the walking mission, and a white-bearded mentor clapped. “Not bad! You’re amazing, Nonoa!”

“Ehehe, I got praised!” She tugged my sleeve. “Hey, Kazuto-oniichan, am I awesome?”

“Yeah, you’re awesome!” I patted her head, her joy infectious. Kids were so innocent and cute. Meanwhile, I’d be thinking, Hurry up with the tutorial. No skip button?

“…I could do that much, you know,” Rinka muttered.

“Huh?”

Did I do something wrong? Ignoring it, I stood behind Nonoa-chan, watching the combat tutorial. With no HP loss, it was a guaranteed win. She chirped “Ei, ei” while clumsily firing fireballs, securing an easy victory.

“Well done, Nonoa! You’re incredible!”

“Yay! They said I’m amazing!” Nonoa-chan tugged my sleeve again, begging for praise.

“You’re awesome, Nonoa-chan,” I said, patting her head. God, I really wanted a little sister.

“I’ve never been praised by Kazuto-kun for something like that,” Rinka mumbled.

“…Uh, Rinka-san?”

“What?”

“Are you, like, competing with your little sister?”

“I’m not. I’m just talking to myself. Don’t get the wrong idea.”

What was with her? Puzzled, I kept praising Nonoa-chan’s gameplay for another hour and a half. Rinka muttered things like, “She’s good for a beginner, but is it really worth that much praise?” and “Even if she’s a kid, isn’t your bar for praise a bit low?” She was definitely competing.

“My eyes are all blurry… Sleepy,” Nonoa-chan yawned, her voice trailing off.

 

 

Nonoa-chan pauses the mouse, rubbing her eyes with a soft mutter. “Too much gaming… eyes tired. Let’s stop for today.”

“Okay…” I nod, glancing at her drooping eyelids. “Kazuto-oniichan, hug me!” Nonoa-chan’s sleepy voice calls out as she raises her arms toward me, her small frame swaying.

“No, Nonoa,” Rinka interjects, her tone edging toward sternness. “Don’t bother Kazuto-kun too much.”

“Ngh… hug me!” Nonoa-chan insists, undeterred.

“It’s fine, Rinka,” I say, waving off her concern with a smile. “I’ve got this. Come here, Nonoa-chan.” Stopping Rinka’s protest, I scoop Nonoa-chan into my arms. Her warmth settles against me, her energy from earlier—chasing friends and treating me like a plaything—finally spent.

“She’s already in first grade…” Rinka murmurs, a mix of exasperation and fondness in her voice.

“That’s normal, isn’t it?” I reply lightly. “I was still begging my mom for hugs in third grade.”

Rinka’s eyes glint with mischief. “You were a spoiled kid, huh… Little Kazuto-kun… I’m kinda into that…!”

Her expression flickers, just for a moment, with something unsettlingly intense. I blink, caught off guard. Is she okay? Shaking it off, I focus on Nonoa-chan, whose eyes are half-closed, her breathing soft and slow. She’s practically asleep in my arms, her angelic face framed by the fading daylight. She must be exhausted from running around all day.

“Kazuto-kun, you really love kids, don’t you?” Rinka’s voice softens, watching us.

“Yeah, I won’t deny it,” I admit, glancing at her. “Do you not like them, Rinka?”

“I love them,” she says earnestly. “They’re so pure, no ulterior motives.”

“Exactly,” I agree. Kids don’t care about appearances or status. They’re honest, like in online games where heartfelt connections come easily. Sure, there are exceptions, but kids are usually untainted.

“It’s getting late,” I said as my tone shifts. “Is it okay if I don’t head home yet?”

“Yeah, no problem. Mom won’t be back until tonight, and Dad’s away for work, so don’t worry about him.”

“Working on a Sunday, huh? Is your mom working too?”

“No, she’s on a day trip with high school friends. Practically skipped out the door this morning.”

“Sounds like a cheerful mom,” I note, picturing it. “What about your college-age sister?”

“Onee-chan’s been staying at a friend’s place. Probably won’t be back today either.” A hint of loneliness creeps into Rinka’s voice, her love for her family evident.

“Zzz, zzz…” Nonoa-chan’s soft snores interrupt, her tiny body nestled against my chest, her sleeping face impossibly adorable. Is she an actual angel? As I marvel at her, Rinka pokes my left shoulder.

“Hm, what?”

“I’m happy you’re doting on my sister, but…” Rinka’s cheeks flush, her gaze flickering away hesitantly. “Aren’t you overdoing it a bit?”

I pause, catching the subtle shift in her tone. “…Rinka?”

“Please… look at me too…” Her shy, upward glance hits me like a spark, her usual cool demeanor replaced by a warm, endearing vulnerability that sends a rush through my chest.

“Rinka…” My voice softens, her name lingering in the quiet.

“Kazuto-kun…” she murmurs back, her refined features catching the glow of the setting sun streaming through the window. In the stillness, broken only by Nonoa-chan’s faint breaths, our eyes lock, the distance between us shrinking. One step closer, and our lips might—

“Home sweet home! Wait, Rinka and Nonoa… Huh, whose shoes are these!?” A bold, feminine voice booms from the doorway, shattering the moment.

Rinka’s face pales. “N-No way… Onee-chan’s back after weeks…!”

The warm, fleeting atmosphere vanishes. I sigh inwardly, a mix of relief and frustration. “What now, hide in the bed again?”

“It’s too late for that…” Rinka groans, her expression distant. “Why today of all days…!”

Yeah, some days are just like that.

☆

“So, care to explain your relationship?” In the living room, Mizuki Kasumi-san sits across the table, arms crossed, her kind eyes tinged with a sharp edge. According to Rinka, Kasumi-san’s usually laid-back, brushing off small details, but when she’s serious, she’s unyielding about principles.

I steal a glance at her, avoiding her gaze at first. She’s stunning—glossy, shoulder-length hair, perfectly proportioned features, exuding a confident big-sister aura. The Mizuki sisters are a study in contrasts.

“Hm? Something on my face?” Kasumi-san asks, catching my look.

“No, nothing,” I reply quickly, swallowing a quip about her striking features. A joke now might earn me a glare that could kill. Nonoa-chan, meanwhile, sleeps soundly in Rinka’s room.

“So, Rinka,” Kasumi-san continues, “who’s this guy?”

“Ayanokoji Kazuto-kun. A guy in my class,” Rinka answers evenly.

“Hmm. So, you’re dating?” Kasumi-san’s tone is probing.

Rinka falls silent, her gaze dropping. I half-expect her to blurt something like, “Not just dating, we’re married,” but she hesitates—a rare sight.

“I can guess what’s going on between you two…” Kasumi-san says, her voice softening but firm. “But, Rinka, bringing a guy home is a bad move.”

“You’re… right,” Rinka concedes, uncharacteristically subdued.

“What if the public finds out? You’ll cause trouble for everyone.”

Rinka says nothing, the weight of Kasumi-san’s words pressing down. The air grows heavy until Kasumi-san leans in, her voice dropping to a whisper. “Just to check, have you already done it?”

“Pfft!” Rinka and I choke in unison, stunned by her bluntness.

“W-Wait, Onee-chan…!” Rinka stammers, her face flushing.

“Oh, not yet? What about a kiss?”

Silence. Our mutual shock hangs in the air.

“What, you haven’t!?” Kasumi-san exclaims. “What kind of relationship is this?”

In my head, I mutter, We’re married in an online game. But out loud, I stay quiet as Rinka finally speaks. “Not just dating. We’re married.”

“…Huh?” Kasumi-san’s eyes widen, blinking rapidly.

I want to bury my face in my hands.

“Kazuto-kun and I met in an online game called Black Plains,” Rinka explains calmly.

“Oh, right, you were obsessed with that game,” Kasumi-san recalls.

“Yes. And that’s where Kazuto-kun and I got married.”

“Hmm.” Kasumi-san pauses, processing. “That’s it?”

“Yes,” Rinka confirms with a nod.

The silence stretches, Kasumi-san’s expression a mix of disbelief and confusion. She clearly thought we were secretly dating, sneaking around. The truth—just online game friends—seems to throw her.

“So, like, are you dating in real life too?” she presses.

“If we’re married in the game, obviously we’re married in real life too, right?” Rinka replies, her logic unwavering.

“Ugh, I don’t get what my little sister’s saying,” Kasumi-san groans, rubbing her temples. It’s probably the most normal reaction I’ve heard. She turns to me. “Ayanokoji-kun, what do you think?”

“I’m fine with being friends with Rin—er, Mizuki-san…” I start, catching myself.

“Hmm. Well, our Rinka’s super cute and an idol, so I get it.”

“That’s not what I mean,” I clarify quickly. “Even if Mizuki-san were plain or ordinary, I’d still be here.” I don’t want her to think my presence hinges on Rinka’s looks or status. Our bond as Kazu and Rin, forged over years in Black Plains, isn’t so fragile.

“Kazuto-kun…” Rinka’s voice carries a quiet respect, her eyes softening beside me. Did I just say something embarrassingly earnest?

“Huh,” Kasumi-san muses, nodding as if convinced. “I don’t get the online game marriage thing, but you’re pretty serious.” Her tone shifts, more thoughtful. “Onee-chan, if Kazuto-kun hadn’t been there, I don’t think I could’ve kept going as an idol,” Rinka says suddenly. “So… can you accept our relationship?”

“As husband and wife?” Kasumi-san raises an eyebrow.

“Yes.”

A beat of silence. I brace for her to shut it down, to call it ridiculous. Instead, she sighs. “Guess I have no choice. As your big sister, I’ll approve!”

Wait, what? After all that intimidation, she’s approving it?

“Onee-chan… thank you,” Rinka says, her voice warm.

“I mean, I’d rather give Rinka to a quiet, decent-looking guy like him than some flashy jerk,” Kasumi-san adds, grinning.

“Decent-looking? No way…” I mutter, reflexively denying it.

“Oh, come on, don’t be modest,” she teases. “You’re not the type to make girls scream, but I bet you’re secretly popular. You seem honest.”

“Well… Anyway, forget about me,” I deflect. “Isn’t it risky for a popular idol like Rinka to date a guy?”

“Totally risky,” Kasumi-san admits. “But tons of idols date in secret. Some even have… physical relationships with multiple guys, including managers.”

I wince at her bluntness, the dream of idol purity crumbling. “Weren’t you against it at first?” I counter. “You said it’d cause trouble for everyone.”

“Oh, that was an act,” she confesses with a laugh. “I’ve always wanted to play the stern big sister, like a dad flipping a table when his daughter brings home a guy. Had to try it!”

I stare, speechless. What a woman…

“Plus, Rinka’s always struggled to make same-sex friends, so her bringing a guy home is a miracle,” Kasumi-san continues. “This might be her first and last shot.”

“If my relationship with Rinka got out, she might not be able to continue as an idol,” I point out, my concern genuine.

“Who cares?” Kasumi-san shrugs. “She’s done enough. It’s time she grabbed some happiness as a girl.”

Her casual words carry a deep care for Rinka’s well-being, catching me off guard. Rinka smiles softly. “I’m happy you’re saying that, Onee-chan. But I don’t want to cause trouble for everyone in Star☆Mines. Can we keep my thing with Kazuto-kun a secret?”

“Of course,” Kasumi-san agrees. “They’re good kids too. Even with their popularity, they haven’t gotten cocky and keep working hard.”

It’s no surprise Kasumi-san knows Star☆Mines. Rinka’s been with them since her second year of middle school, and Kurumizaka-san’s been her friend since elementary school.

“So, that settles it, right?” Kasumi-san claps her hands, turning to me with a mischievous smile. “Alright, Ayanokoji Kazuto-kun. Next—how about greeting Mom?”

…Seriously? The atmosphere makes it impossible to clarify that Rinka and I aren’t even dating. It’s like a moat around me is filling up at lightning speed.

“Onee-chan, isn’t it a bit early to greet Mom?” Rinka interjects, her voice hesitant.

“Huh? You’re acting like husband and wife, right? So what’s the problem?”

“Well…” Rinka glances at me, her eyes searching. She’s waiting for my response, aware that her “wife” act might be pushing things too far.

“You both like each other, right?” Kasumi-san presses.

Silence. We both freeze, unsure how to answer.

“What’s up?” Kasumi-san tilts her head, puzzled.

Rinka speaks up, her voice steady but soft. “Actually… Kazuto-kun hasn’t fully accepted that he’s my husband yet. I’m waiting for him to sort out his feelings.”

“Oh, I see…” Kasumi-san nods, glancing at me. “So he’s the normal one.”

Her phrasing stings, implying Rinka’s the odd one out. Not that I can entirely disagree.

“But it’s fine,” Rinka insists. “Kazuto-kun just hasn’t realized it, but he loves me.”

“…My little sister’s gotten kinda dark,” Kasumi-san mutters, shooting me a look that screams, Help me out here. Sorry, but Rinka’s been like this since day one.

“Uh, let’s go over this again,” Kasumi-san says, rubbing her forehead. “Rinka, you’re treating this like you’re married, right?”

“Yes.”

“And Ayanokoji-kun?”

“…Online game friends… and recently, classmates who hang out in real life, I guess.”

“Do you like Rinka?”

“Like… I can’t say for sure if it’s romantic,” I admit. “I’ve always admired Mizuki-san as an idol.”

“Ugh, this is getting complicated,” Kasumi-san groans. “And Rinka’s the one making it messier.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Rinka snaps, a hint of irritation in her voice.

“Exactly what I said.”

“Kazuto-kun’s just not clear about his feelings, but the fact that we’re married doesn’t change.”

“…Is this what they call a yandere? Or maybe a stalker?” Kasumi-san muses.

“Don’t say such rude things,” Rinka retorts, her tone sharp. “Even if you’re my sister, I’ll get mad.”

Kasumi-san presses her forehead, exasperated. “Ugh… I’m starting to get your relationship. I thought you were both into each other and playing house, but… Rinka, aren’t you just clinging to Ayanokoji-kun?”

That’s both right and wrong. I’ve kind of accepted Rinka’s intensity… just not the marriage part.

“I’m not clinging,” Rinka insists. “Isn’t it normal for a husband and wife to be together?”

“…Rinka…” Kasumi-san buries her face in her hands, utterly speechless.

She looks up at me, her expression softening. “Ayanokoji-kun…”

“Yes?”

“Please… take care of our Rinka.”

“Yes… Wait, what!?” I stammer, caught off guard.

“I mean, you’re the only one who can handle her deep love,” she says, half-serious, half-teasing.

“What are you even saying!?”

“Look, Rinka’s crazy cute, right? Even without family bias, she’s top-tier in looks. She’s smart, sings great, can cook, and is a cool-type idol called a super beauty… Perfect, right?”

“Why does it sound like you’re offloading bad debt?” I quip, unable to resist.

“Oh, come on!” Kasumi-san laughs. “Rinka finally brought a guy home! I was starting to think she wasn’t into guys, like maybe she liked girls or something! This is her last chance!”

I’m at a loss for words, overwhelmed by her relentless enthusiasm. “I don’t know what you’re stressing about, Ayanokoji-kun, but some love starts after you start dating,” she continues. “Why not cross that line with Rinka and see?”

“I see, that’s one way to—wait, no way I’m agreeing to that!” I catch myself. “That’s just creating a fait accompli!”

“So what! What’s wrong with Rinka!?”

“It’s not that I have complaints or anything…”

“I appreciate you thinking seriously about Rinka, but isn’t it youthful to act on impulse sometimes?”

Her words give me pause. She’s right—I’ve been overthinking, tying myself in knots. Then Kasumi-san flashes a sly grin. “Let your overflowing desires take over, you know.”

I freeze. This woman’s been tossing around suggestive terms since we started. She’s a little dangerous.

“Anyway, I’ll call Mom,” she says, pulling out her phone. “At least stay for dinner.”

She’s moving things forward at breakneck speed. Rinka, sitting beside me, looks apologetic. “I’m sorry, Kazuto-kun. Things got like this before you could make up your mind.”

“N-No…” I mumble, unsure if it’s her fault. Maybe it’s just the chaos of the Mizuki family.

Man, I just want to play online games… Is that wish just me dodging reality?

☆

“Man, Kazuto-kun, you’re a fun kid!” Kasumi-san beams, her energy unrelenting.

“Am I?” I reply, half-exhausted.

“Yup, yup. It’s fun talking with you.” While waiting for their mom, I’m stuck entertaining Kasumi-san in the living room and playing with a clingy Nonoa-chan. It’s a lot.

I glance toward the kitchen, where Rinka’s making dinner. Her long hair, usually cascading to her waist, is tied in a neat ponytail, a light blue apron framing her figure. Even from behind, she’s captivating, my heart skipping a beat. I’m probably the only regular guy who’s seen this domestic side of a cool-type idol.

“Ooh, what’s that? Staring at Rinka?” Kasumi-san teases, catching me.

“W-Well… yeah,” I admit, nodding vaguely. Denying it feels rude, and she’s undeniably cute. My pulse quickens.

“We’re having curry tonight!” Nonoa-chan chirps. “Kazuto-oniichan, do you like curry?”

“Love it,” I say, wincing as she tugs my bangs. “Ow, ow! Careful, Nonoa-chan, I don’t want to go bald early.”

“Tonight’s curry is mild,” Rinka calls from the kitchen.

“Really?” I ask. “It’s been years since I had mild curry. Is it for Nonoa-chan?”

“Nope, not for me!” Nonoa-chan declares. “I love super spicy stuff!”

“That’s intense for a first-grader,” I say, impressed. “You’ll ruin your palate. …Wait, then for Kasumi-san?”

“Haha, Kazuto-boy,” Kasumi-san laughs. “You think I’d be satisfied with mild?”

“Boy?” I raise an eyebrow. “No, I pictured you as a spicy type, Kasumi-san.”

“Right? So, the reason it’s mild is…”

“Rinka?” I guess.

“Bingo!” Kasumi-san grins.

That’s surprising. Rinka, a mild curry fan? I thought she’d handle spicy food without flinching.

“Rinka-neechan can’t handle spicy stuff!” Nonoa-chan giggles. “Yesterday, she cried just from licking the chili flakes that came with udon!”

“She’s that bad?” I ask, amused. “Those udon chili flakes are pretty mild.”

Knowing this quirky side of Rinka sparks a quiet joy in me. Kasumi-san shrugs. “We’d love to eat spicy stuff, but since Rinka’s the only one who can cook, we can’t complain.”

“Oh? Kasumi-san, you’re bad at cooking?”

“Yup, totally hopeless!” she admits cheerfully. “The other day, I tried making boiled eggs in the microwave, and they exploded. Haha!”

“Yay! Explosion, explosion!” Nonoa-chan cheers.

“That’s not funny,” I say, shaking my head. “That’s a serious problem.” Everyone knows you don’t microwave eggs.

“Kazuto-boy, remember this phrase,” Kasumi-san says, her tone mock-serious.

“…What?”

“Life—is an explosion.”

“You mean art is an explosion,” I correct. “If life explodes, it’s over.”

As I side-eye Kasumi-san’s cackling, the front door clicks open. “Mom’s here!” Nonoa-chan squeals, darting off.

She’s too cute. I’m a high schooler, but I’m starting to want a daughter. Led by Nonoa-chan’s hand, Rinka’s mom stumbles in, her face flushed bright red. “Pfft! Oh man, this is bad. The floor’s shaking like crazy!”

…She’s completely plastered. Kasumi-san mentioned she was drinking with friends, but this is “a little”?

“Mom, come on, you’re embarrassing,” Rinka says, rushing from the kitchen with a glass of water. “Pull yourself together.”

“Haha, sorry, Rinka!” Her mom downs the water in one go, still wobbling.

This is the mom who raised Rinka? I pictured someone strict and poised, but seeing Nonoa-chan and Kasumi-san’s personalities, maybe this makes sense. Is cool-type Rinka the odd one out? Though, Rin feels perfectly natural in her own way.

“Yooou’re… Ayanokoji… Kazuto-kun, riiight?” Rinka’s mom slurs, reeking of alcohol as she approaches.

“Y-Yes!” I manage, stiffening.

She grabs my face with both hands, her grip surprisingly strong. “Ohh, what a cute face. Are you a Johnny’s idol?”

[T/N: “Johnny’s” refers to Johnny & Associates, a famous Japanese talent agency known for its male idol groups.]

“N-No, I’m not,” I stammer.

“Really? Such a waste. Why not apply now?”

What’s she talking about? She’s way too drunk. Rinka intervenes, dragging her to the sofa. “Mom, stop bothering Kazuto-kun.”

“Ngh, Rinka…” her mom mumbles, collapsing onto the cushions.

She doesn’t look like the mother of a popular idol at all. “Hehe, surprising, huh, Kazuto-boy?” Kasumi-san grins.

“Yeah… Also, what’s with the ‘boy’ thing?”

“Our mom’s usually scary-serious, but the moment alcohol or competition’s involved, she turns into a different person.”

“Is that so…?” I glance at Rinka nursing her mom, unable to picture “scary-serious.”

Rinka exchanges a few words with her mom, then approaches me, hesitating. “Um, Kazuto-kun. Mom asked me to give you this.”

“Huh?” She hands me a smartphone, and I take it, instantly regretting it. It’s a video call, showing a stern-looking man with glasses. No way—

“Good evening. You’re Ayanokoji Kazuto, right? I’m Rinka’s father, Mizuki Mikio.”

Dad’s here!? Why!? “Sorry for greeting you like this,” he continues, his voice calm but heavy. “I’m away for work.”

“N-No, it’s fine,” I reply, my throat tight.

“I hear you’re dating Rinka.”

“W-Well, um… There’s a bit of a misunderstanding…” I fumble, feeling the pressure of his gaze through the screen.

“Misunderstanding?” Mikio-papa adjusts his glasses, his tone sharpening.

“Actually, uh, Rinka-san and I are together in an online game… In real life, we’re more like friends (?) who recently started hanging out.” I spill everything, determined to be honest. He’s the scariest one yet, so clarity feels essential, even if he thinks less of me.

“Ayanokoji-kun,” he says after a pause.

“…Yes.”

“So, you’re saying my family’s getting carried away on their own?”

“S-Sorry! I-I mean… That’s kinda it!” It’s the truth, as awkward as it sounds.

A heavy silence falls. Mikio-papa touches his chin, thoughtful. “…Ayanokoji-kun.”

“Y-Yes.”

“I understand your situation. My guess is probably correct.”

“…?” What does that mean? I lean in, hanging on his words.

“Ayanokoji-kun, I’ve walked that path before.”

“Uh, what?”

“Good luck.”

“What does that mean!? You’ve got this wise, knowing look!” I protest, bewildered.

“A tip from a pioneer: choose a job with lots of business trips.”

“Huh!?”

“A wife is a precious being. But being glued to her 24/7 is exhausting. You wake up still tired.”

“What are you talking about!? I don’t understand!”

“Love can sometimes drive a person to a path of carnage… Keep those words in your heart.”

“Wai—” The call cuts off with a beep.

Why does everyone ignore me and hang up halfway!? “Mikio-papa… What happened to you…!?” I mutter, shaken. I’ve glimpsed the dark side of the Mizuki family. Something’s been going on with Rinka’s mom, something ongoing, unchanging. In that brief call, Mikio-papa was warning me.

“All done, Kazuto-kun?” Rinka asks, her voice soft.

“Y-Yeah.” With a trembling hand, I return the phone. I might be doomed. In every sense.

☆

“You could’ve stayed the night!” Kasumi-san says, gripping the steering wheel as she drives me home.

“No way, that’s…” I trail off, staring at the city lights blurring past.

“Haha, kidding, kidding.” Her playful laugh doesn’t feel like a joke. After a lively dinner at the Mizuki house, it’s too late for a high schooler to be out. They offered to let me stay for safety, but I declined. Tomorrow’s Monday, and I have school. Even if it were a holiday, I wouldn’t have the courage.

“I’ve always wanted to chat one-on-one with my sister’s boyfriend,” Kasumi-san says, her tone light but probing.

“I’m not her boyfriend yet,” I correct.

“Oh? You said ‘yet,’ huh?” she teases, catching my slip.

“T-That’s not what I meant!” I stammer, flustered. She chuckles mischievously.

“Kazuto-kun, got someone else you like?”

“Why do you ask?”

“You’re staying so composed despite Rinka coming on strong. Makes me think you’ve got someone you’re serious about.”

“There’s… no one,” I admit.

“Hmm. Then, are you super popular? Like, so popular Rinka’s not enough?”

“I’m not popular at all,” I say, shaking my head.

“Maybe you just don’t realize it? If I were in your class, I wouldn’t leave you alone.”

“It’s nice to hear you say that, even if it’s a joke.”

“Haha, it’s not a joke,” she insists. “Honestly, I’m a little jealous of Rinka.”

Her words carry a weight I can’t quite grasp. How do I respond? My communication skills falter, leaving me silent. Kasumi-san glances at me, her expression softening. “I said a lot today, but if you really don’t like Rinka, be honest. I’ll handle it.”

“I don’t dislike her,” I say quickly. “I just haven’t sorted out my own feelings.”

“Got it,” she nods, her smile reassuring. “I’m glad you’re not the type to jump at girls without thinking.” She pauses, her gaze distant. “Rinka’s carefree now, but she used to be scarily tense.”

“Before she got famous?” I ask.

“Yup, back in middle school.” Her voice carries a heavy memory. I recall Kurumizaka-san mentioning something similar at the cafeteria once.

“Early Star☆Mines had zero popularity,” Kasumi-san explains. “They had momentum, but that’s it. Each member had talent, but they weren’t using it at all.”

“Really?” I ask, surprised.

“Yup. They fought a lot too.”

“No way? You’d never guess that now.” Star☆Mines is known for their tight-knit bond.

“They’re super close now,” she agrees. “But there was a rough patch.” She continues as she drives, her voice steady. “You know Nana-chan, right? She cried every night, agonizing over stuff. Especially since she’s the one who dragged Rinka into being an idol, she felt guilty.”

“Wait, Kurumizaka-san?” It’s hard to imagine the bubbly Kurumizaka-san crying.

“Yup, that Nana-chan.”

They must’ve faced intense pressure. “How do you know all this, Kasumi-san?”

“I talked to Nana-chan on the phone a few times, giving her advice. Rinka and Nana have known each other since elementary school, so I’m connected to her too.”

No way. Kasumi-san giving advice? She catches my skeptical look. “What, you don’t believe me? I may not look it, but I’m a reliable big sister type.”

To me, she’s still more on the chaotic side. “Is it okay for me to know this? About Kurumizaka-san crying and all…”

“I think you need to know,” she says firmly. “How much you’ve impacted their lives.”

“I was just playing an online game,” I protest.

“Then they were just doing idol stuff,” she counters.

“No, the weight’s totally different. Like light novels versus literary fiction.” The effort of being an idol—judged by strangers constantly—feels leagues beyond my daily gaming.

“Back then, Rinka thought Star☆Mines’ failure was all her fault and practiced like crazy on her own,” Kasumi-san says, her tone softening. “So I suggested she try an online game to unwind.”

“What?”

“In an online game, no one knows your face or name, so you can play freely, right? I thought it’d be a good break. I’ve never played one myself, though.”

“You recommended it without ever playing?” So Kasumi-san was the reason Rinka started Black Plains. That’s shocking.

“Rinka was reluctant at first,” she continues. “Said if she had time for games, she’d practice singing, all grumpy-like. …But one day, out of nowhere, she said online games were fun.”

I stay silent, picturing it.

“Rinka, who always looked pained, finally smiled again,” Kasumi-san says, her voice warm with relief. “That made me so happy.”

I don’t know that version of Rinka, but Kasumi-san’s expression tells me how serious it was. “Looking back, the day Rinka smiled was when Star☆Mines started their big push.”

“Big push?”

“Yup. Not an instant breakout, but they started reconciling as a group, then gradually got more jobs… and one day, they just exploded in popularity.”

I nod, impressed. Those dazzling idol smiles are built on immense struggle.

“So, basically, Kazuto-kun, Star☆Mines’ success is thanks to you,” Kasumi-san declares.

“No way, how does that follow?” I protest.

“Nana-chan told me Rinka changed for the better, and that inspired the others to stay positive. Without that, they might’ve disbanded.”

“Huh…?”

“Not getting it? You changed Rinka through the online game, and that saved Star☆Mines.”

“That’s a bit of a stretch, isn’t it?” I was just playing Black Plains, not orchestrating their comeback.

“It’s not a stretch,” she insists. “Sure, they worked hard, but you gave them the spark to bounce back.” She pauses, her smile softening. “Nana-chan said on the phone the other day that she’s grateful to Kazu-kun.”

[T/N: “Nana-chan” refers to Kurumizaka-san, Rinka’s friend and fellow Star☆Mines member.]

 

 

 

I understand. That’s why Kurumizaka-san places such trust in me.
She likely shares the same sentiment as Kasumi-san—
that Star☆Mines’ success hinges on Ayanokoji Kazuto.

That’s an exaggeration. All I did was enjoy my time with Rin. Nothing more, nothing less.

“…”

The conversation trails off naturally.
In the quiet car, filled only with the hum of the engine, I gaze at my reflection in the window.
Just an ordinary guy.
…This guy, the supposed savior of the mega-popular idol group Star☆Mines?
Haha, what a laughable notion.
Faced with a truth far too weighty for someone so unremarkable, I can only remain silent.