Chapter 6 | “The Beautiful Foreign Student’s Impatience”
At long last, it came—December 24th, Christmas Eve.
Today was the closing ceremony, and the school was brimming with excitement from the morning.
With the ceremony over and dismissal before noon, the classroom had transformed into a lively festival.
“Okay, everyone, let’s throw a Christmas party…!”
Even Akira was caught up in an unusually enthusiastic mood.
Apparently, the youth club he’s in is on break starting today, so the timing’s perfect.
“I wanna join too~!”
“Count me in~!”
The Christmas party wasn’t just for single guys—girls and even couples were joining the fun.
Of course, that meant…
“Charlotte-san, you’re coming, right?”
Naturally, someone called out to the ever-popular Charl.
“Uh, well…”
Charl hesitated, her eyes flickering toward me.
We hadn’t really talked about our plans for after school.
But I was pretty sure we were on the same wavelength.
“Sorry, it’s our first Christmas Eve together, so I’d like it to be just us today.”
I pulled Charl close by the shoulder and apologized to the girls inviting her.
“Ooh, still so lovey-dovey~!”
“Yeah, go ahead and flirt all you want~!”
The girls shot us playful, mischievous grins.
Unlike when Charl first arrived, no one throws shade when I step in anymore.
If anything, they seem to enjoy it, and I get this kind of warm teasing all the time now.
“Ugh, I can’t take it at times like this…!”
“Aoyagi, you’re hogging all the luck…!”
The guys, meanwhile, were practically seething with envy.
Charl’s just too adorable, so I can’t blame them for feeling that way.
“Christmas Eve, just the two of you, huh~?”
In the midst of it all, Shimizu-san sauntered over with a sly grin.
“Got something to say?”
“Good luck, big guy.”
When I challenged her, she flashed me a thumbs-up.
Yeah, she definitely knows what’s up.
“We’re just gonna take it easy, that’s all.”
“Y-Y-Yeah, exactly! Just relaxing!”
Charl nodded vigorously, parroting my words.
Her face was beet red, and her flustered state was practically a confession in itself.
I knew this would happen, so I avoided mentioning it until today—but it seems Charl had the same plan all along.
“Charlotte-san.”
Tap, tap. Shimizu-san poked Charl’s shoulder.
Then, leaning in close to her ear—
“It’s the holy night, so make it a memory to cherish.”
—she whispered something.
“~~~~~~!”
Charl let out a wordless squeak, wriggling in embarrassment.
I didn’t hear what was said, but Charl’s reaction gave me a solid hint.
Probably something about tonight.
“Oh, so those two are doing that today…”
“Charlotte-san, finally…”
“They seem so reserved, but that’s unexpected…”
The girls watching us had clearly pieced it together.
It’s mortifying that the whole class knows.
“Ugh… my Charlotte-san is gonna be stolen by Aoyagi…”
“She’s not yours, man. But yeah, it’s a blow…”
The guys had caught on too and were openly moping.
At this rate, the whole school might catch wind of it…
“Um, that’s really not what’s happening…!”
Charl, oblivious to the fact that everyone already knew, was frantically trying to convince Shimizu-san otherwise.
Shimizu-san just smiled and nodded, clearly humoring her, so it wasn’t helping much.
“—Everyone… what’s all the commotion about…?”
Completely out of the loop, Karin approached hesitantly.
She’s such an innocent girl, so she probably has no clue what’s going on tonight.
“Don’t worry about it.”
Wanting to keep my little sister pure, I brushed it off with a smile.
“Really…?”
Karin tilted her head curiously but didn’t push further.
She seems to trust my words without question.
“More importantly, you’re coming tomorrow, right?”
Since today’s Christmas Eve, tomorrow’s Charl’s birthday.
So, we’re inviting close friends to our new place for a birthday party.
Kanon-san suggested renting a hotel hall owned by the Himeragi conglomerate and inviting everyone we know, but that’d be overwhelming for Charl.
I didn’t want her birthday to be stressful, so we’re keeping it small with just close friends.
“Mm, I’m coming…! I even got a present…!”
Karin, who’s tight with Charl, nodded proudly.
She might be fishing for a pat on the head for being so prepared.
“Thanks. I’ll pick you up at the station tomorrow.”
“Your house changed, right…?”
I’d already told her about the move so she wouldn’t head to the old place by mistake.
So, she knew—but something about her tone felt off.
“Shinonome-san?”
Noticing Karin looking down, I called out, concerned.
She pulled out her phone and started typing.
When she finished, my phone pinged with a notification.
Checking the screen—
[As your little sister, I’m not allowed to live with you, but you’re living with other people?]
It was a rare, bitter message from Karin.
She seemed to be holding a grudge since I turned down her request to live together, only to move in with Kanon-san and the others soon after.
[I explained why, didn’t I?]
I’d brought Karin along when I explained things to Akira and Shimizu-san, so she should’ve understood.
She seemed to accept it back then…
[I get it in my head, but my heart can’t accept it…]
Apparently, while she understands logically, her emotions aren’t on board.
Karin looked up, puffing her cheeks and glaring at me.
Through the gap in her bangs, her heterochromatic eyes shimmered with discontent.
It’s kinda cute that my little sister’s sulking because she wants to live with me…
[Everything’s settled now, so you can stay over anytime.]
Feeling guilty for upsetting her, I reminded her of a promise I’d made before.
Winter break starts tomorrow, so it’s a great chance.
A sleepover would probably make Charl happy too.
[I don’t know the new big sister…]
The “new big sister” is Kanon-san.
Since she’s like my older sister, Karin probably sees her as her own sister too.
Kanon-san knows about Karin and has said she’d love to meet her, seeing her as a little sister of her own.
But for shy Karin, staying at a house with someone she doesn’t know is a big leap.
[She’s kind, and Charl and I will be there, but if you’d rather not, that’s okay.]
I can’t force her, and if Karin doesn’t want to stay over, that’s fine.
[No, I’ll stay…]
But it seems she wants to give it a try.
[Then just let me know whenever you want to come.]
[Tomorrow?]
Karin seemed eager to stay over right away, asking if tomorrow was okay.
Since she’s coming to the house anyway, it makes sense to stay, but—
[Sorry, I want to focus on Charl tomorrow, so maybe another day?]
Having other girls around at night might make Charl feel uneasy.
It’d be a shame on her birthday, and I want to pamper Charl just the two of us, so I’d prefer she wait.
Besides, if Karin said she was staying, Shimizu-san and Kousaka-san, who are coming, might decide to stay too.
If it turns into a girls’ sleepover, I’d feel like the odd one out, so I’d rather avoid that.
[Okay…]
[Any other day works, though.]
Seeing Karin’s clear disappointment, I added that to cheer her up.
“—Why are you texting when you’re standing right there?”
Out of nowhere, Akira slung an arm around my shoulder from behind.
He’d been watching and even noticed our texting.
“We were discussing something private. You’re coming tomorrow too, right, Akira?”
“Yeah, obviously. But, like, is it really cool for me to show up?”
Akira had been pretty bold with Charl before, but it didn’t go over well.
Charl’s cautious around guys and puts up an invisible barrier, so Akira might’ve felt outright ignored at times.
They eat lunch together, but he seems nervous about attending her birthday party.
“If you don’t come, I’ll be the odd one out…”
Tomorrow’s guests, even just the ones our age, include Kanon-san, Shimizu-san, Kousaka-san, and Karin.
Plus, Kaguya-san and Sophia-san are coming, so it’ll be mostly girls.
I need at least one other guy there, or I’ll feel totally out of place.
“Yeah, but… you didn’t invite any other guys, did you?”
“Sorry, I don’t have many friends.”
“N-No, I didn’t mean it like that…!”
Akira shook his head frantically.
Sadly, Akira’s the only guy I trust.
Inviting someone else and risking Charl’s discomfort would be a problem.
I considered inviting Riku, both to thank him for before and because I trust him, but Shimizu-san shot it down.
Since he barely knows Charl or the other guests, Shimizu-san insisted he’d feel out of place—and she was oddly firm about not wanting him there.
“Aoyagi-kun, you don’t have many friends either…?”
“Don’t give me that ‘we’re the same’ look…”
Karin looked at me with sparkling eyes, so I gave her a wry smile.
Honestly, most of my friends are girls—Akira and Riku are my only guy friends.
Am I secretly some kind of weirdo in everyone else’s eyes…?
“By the way, Shinonome-san, you’re not joining the Christmas party today?”
Learning from past mistakes, Akira spoke to Karin gently.
“Um… if Aoyagi-kun and Charlotte-san aren’t going… I’ll pass too…”
Just like at Charl’s welcome party, Karin declined.
She probably thinks she’d have no one to talk to.
Shimizu-san’s going to the Christmas party, but since they don’t eat lunch together, Karin hasn’t warmed up to her yet.
Plus, with Shimizu-san’s crowd of friends around, Karin would probably find it impossible to approach her.
“Events like this could be a good chance to join in. If anything happens, Akira’s got your back, right?”
As her big brother, I’m a bit nervous about pushing her, but with Akira and Shimizu-san there, nothing bad should happen.
Even if chatting’s tough, Shimizu-san will likely keep an eye out to prevent anything weird.
It’s a good opportunity, and I wanted her to try for her own sake.
But—
“No, I’m fine…”
Karin still wasn’t interested.
“My lack of charm…”
Thinking she disliked him, Akira slumped his shoulders in defeat.
“No, it’s not that. She probably just doesn’t want to go because she’d have no one to talk to.”
“Mm…”
When I explained, Karin nodded in agreement.
Without someone to chat with, she’d just feel awkward the whole time, so it’s no wonder she’s hesitant.
“Getting Kousaka-san to join—nah, that’s a long shot.”
Seeing Akira’s grimace when I mentioned her, I backtracked.
“Akihito, you just suggested something wild.”
“Yeah, throwing her into a second-year party would be rough.”
I’d love for her to keep Karin company, but Kousaka-san’s shy too, so she’d probably hate joining a second-year event.
Once you get to know her, she’s polite and kind, but…
“Besides, she and I don’t get along.”
“For real?”
“Why’re you acting surprised? We bicker all the time, don’t we?”
Akira looked irritated, but to me, their arguments just seem like friendly banter.
“Well, if you’re not inviting her, that’s fine. Shinonome-san, you sure you’re not coming?”
“Mm…”
I checked one last time, but her answer didn’t budge.
Since I’m not going either, I can’t push her too hard.
“Alright, I’m heading back with Charl.”
Right now, Charl’s surrounded by Shimizu-san and the other girls, getting teased to no end.
I need to save her soon, or it’ll be too much for her.
“See you both tomorrow.”
“Yeah, catch you later.”
“Bye-bye…”
I waved goodbye and headed toward the girls’ circle.
“Charl—”
“A-kun, save me…!”
As I reached the center, a teary-eyed, flushed Charl flung herself into my arms.
“Uh…”
“Everyone’s being so mean…!”
Charl buried her face against me, clinging tightly.
She must be beyond embarrassed.
I mean, I saw from afar that they were teasing her mercilessly about tonight.
Charl’s adorable reactions probably made it impossible for the girls to stop.
“Haha… sorry, Charlotte-san, Aoyagi-kun.”
The main culprit, Shimizu-san, scratched her cheek and apologized.
“Pushing her when she’s uncomfortable isn’t cool.”
I gently patted Charl’s head while lightly scolding the girls.
The girls seemed more focused on my actions than my words.
“Hugging her and patting her head so openly…”
“Aoyagi-kun’s got this cool, mature vibe…”
“He just started patting her like it’s nothing—do they flirt like this all the time…?”
“Honestly, I’m kinda jealous of Charlotte-san…”
Blushing, the girls stared at us with wide eyes.
I have a feeling we’re about to spark a whole new rumor.
“Charl, ready to head home?”
“Yes…”
Wanting to escape the spotlight, I asked Charl, and she gave a small nod.
She kept her face pressed against me, avoiding everyone’s gazes.
She’s so shy about anything tied to tonight, even though she seems to know what’s coming.
With no other option, I guided her to her desk to grab her bag.
I grabbed mine too, and we slipped out into the hallway.
“Charl, you gotta let go soon…”
The hallway was packed with students from other classes, and to anyone who didn’t know what happened, we probably looked like a couple getting flirty before the night even began.
Teachers don’t take kindly to these rumors, so it’s better to avoid misunderstandings.
Especially since I have no idea what Miyu-sensei would say.
“—Oh, Akihito-senpai, Charlotte-senpai, heading home?”
As Charl let go and we started down the stairs, a voice called from above.
Glancing up, I saw Nikaidou-san and a group of first-year girls watching us.
They must’ve just come down from the first-year hallway.
“Yeah. You all off to have fun?”
“Yup, a girls-only Christmas party. Charlotte-senpai’s so lucky to have an amazing boyfriend like Akihito-senpai.”
Nikaidou-san looked at Charl with genuine envy.
She’s at that age where she probably dreams of having a boyfriend.
“Thank you. A-kun’s really wonderful.”
With that, Charl subtly linked arms with me again.
Is she staking her claim with a ‘he’s mine’ vibe?
“Haha… I’m not trying to steal him. You two are so cute together—you’re our OTP!”
(T/N: OTP means One True Pairing, a term used in fandom communities to indicate a preferred coupling.)
Nikaidou-san picked up on Charl’s intent and laughed awkwardly.
Come to think of it, Kousaka-san mentioned we’re kind of a big deal among the first-years as a couple.
Are we like one of those couple vlogs on streaming platforms?
“Himeka-chan’s hogging them…! I wanna talk to them too…!”
“M-Me too!”
“I want a pic with them!”
The first-year girls squealed like they’d just met celebrities.
We might be a bit famous at school after some incidents, but I don’t think we’re that special.
—Still, the first-years being friendly is convenient.
To avoid blocking the hallway, I led the girls outside the school building.
The first-years seemed to misread my intentions, squealing excitedly as they followed, but I wasn’t planning a photo op.
I just wanted to talk and make a request.
“Nikaidou-san, you’re in the same class as Kousaka-san, right?”
“Uh, yeah…?”
When I brought up Kousaka-san, Nikaidou-san visibly stiffened.
The other girls, who’d been all smiles, shot wary looks, clearly thinking, Why mention Kousaka-san…?
It was the reaction I expected.
“A-kun, what’re you…?”
Sensing something off, Charl tried to stop me.
I gave her a reassuring smile and turned back to Nikaidou-san.
“Is Kousaka-san someone you don’t get along with?”
I asked softly, making it clear I wasn’t here to pick a fight.
“I know she hangs out with you guys a lot…”
Being somewhat well-known at school means people notice us.
That includes who we spend time with, so they probably know about Kousaka-san.
And since she’s a first-year who hangs with us, some students aren’t too thrilled about her.
She already had trouble fitting in, and lately, she’s been even more isolated.
I’ve been keeping her in our group so she doesn’t feel alone until she makes friends, but if that’s causing problems, I need to fix it.
“But honestly… we’re not close.”
From our last chat, I thought Nikaidou-san seemed straightforward.
She’s being honest about her feelings, so I was right about her.
She’s the type who’d click with Kousaka-san.
“Why’s that?”
“Well…”
Nikaidou-san fidgeted, pressing her index fingers together as her gaze wandered.
The other girls looked away too, seeming guilty.
“I just want to know, so say whatever’s on your mind.”
I’m not here to lecture or complain.
I just want to bridge the gap between Nikaidou-san and Kousaka-san.
To do that, I need to understand Nikaidou-san’s perspective.
Kousaka-san already thinks well of Nikaidou-san because she spoke kindly of me and Charl to others.
“She’s blunt and says harsh things without softening them… and she’s so serious, it’s hard to approach her.”
“…”
Hearing Nikaidou-san’s words, Charl glanced at my face.
She’s probably thinking it sounds like someone else we know.
Well, I used to be harsh on purpose to keep people at a distance.
“Even if she’s right, you wish she’d say things more gently, don’t you?”
“Yeah…”
Nikaidou-san nodded slightly, looking apologetic.
It’s definitely Kousaka-san’s delivery that’s the problem.
She probably feels awkward since she knows I’m close with Kousaka-san and feels bad for speaking negatively.
“I know it might seem like I’m biased because we’re friends, but Kousaka-san’s kind and a good person. She’s just shy and doesn’t know how to act around people she’s not used to, so she comes off as cold.”
First, they need to understand who Kousaka-san really is.
That’s the starting point.
“Akihito-senpai, were you in the same middle school as Kousaka-san?”
“Yeah. Same school, same club. So I probably know her better than anyone else here.”
When I said that, Charl tightened her grip on my arm.
Maybe she didn’t like how I worded it.
“So you’re talking to me for Kousaka-san’s sake, aren’t you?”
Maybe because she’s an influencer, she’s quick to catch on.
“She’s misunderstood by others, and it’s creating a divide. I want to fix that. I think getting along with Kousaka-san would be good for you too.”
Kousaka-san may be serious and sometimes blunt, but she’d never abandon someone in need.
If Nikaidou-san ever needed help, Kousaka-san would step up without hesitation.
But—
“Kousaka-san…?”
“That’s hard to believe…”
The girls behind Nikaidou-san sounded doubtful.
They’ve probably butted heads with her a few times already.
“…”
Nikaidou-san stared at me, lost in thought.
Then—
“Okay, I’ll invite Kousaka-san to the Christmas party later.”
She flashed me a smile.
“Himeka-chan!?”
“For real!?”
“That’s gonna be so awkward…!”
The other girls freaked out, clearly not expecting Nikaidou-san to agree.
I hadn’t meant for her to act right away, so I was surprised she’d invite her to the Christmas party.
“We’ve been keeping her at arm’s length just because she called us out a few times, right? I think that was unfair.”
“Maybe, but…”
“Still…”
I don’t know what went down between Nikaidou-san’s group and Kousaka-san.
Based on Kousaka-san’s reaction, I thought it wasn’t a big deal, but there’s clearly some tension.
On the flip side, it’s probably not a huge issue for Kousaka-san.
There’s plenty of room for a fresh start.
“I get how everyone feels, and honestly, I wouldn’t have thought to deal with this if Akihito-senpai hadn’t said anything. But I’m curious. I trust Akihito-senpai and Charlotte-senpai’s judgment, and if they’re not just hanging out with Kousaka-san but going out of their way for her, I want to see who she really is.”
During that video incident, I thought Nikaidou-san was a bit reckless, but talking to her now, she’s clearly capable of thinking things through.
She might get swept up in the moment sometimes, but she’s sharp.
“Plus, after causing you guys trouble and getting helped out, I can’t really say no to a request.”
Turning to me, she dropped the serious tone and gave a playful little teehee.
Probably trying to lighten the mood.
“Thanks, that’s a huge help.”
The other girls seemed to go along with it, though they’re probably still hesitant.
If Nikaidou-san’s willing to give Kousaka-san a chance, that’s enough for now.
“But has she already left…?”
Since Kousaka-san doesn’t have friends in class, she probably bolted right after homeroom.
It wouldn’t be surprising if she’s already gone…
“Is a phone call okay?”
“Uh… sure.”
When I asked, Nikaidou-san nodded, though she looked a bit nervous.
I quickly dialed Kousaka-san’s number.
[—Yes, this is Kaede. What’s up?]
After a few rings, Kousaka-san answered.
“Sorry for calling out of nowhere. You free right now?”
[Yeah, I’m at the station waiting for my train.]
Good, we’re still in time.
“Great. Nikaidou-san wants to talk to you—can I hand her the phone?”
[Huh!? Why Nikaidou-san!?]
She was clearly shocked to hear Nikaidou-san’s name from me.
Understandable.
She probably never dreamed Nikaidou-san would reach out through me.
“Is that okay?”
[N-No, it’s fine…]
She sounded nervous but willing to hear her out.
“Nikaidou-san, can you take it from here?”
“Y-Yes…”
Nikaidou-san took the phone, looking tense.
It must take guts to invite someone she’s not close with.
“Um… hi, this is Nikaidou… So, actually—”
True to her word, Nikaidou-san invited Kousaka-san to the Christmas party.
I heard Kousaka-san’s surprised voice through the phone, but she didn’t sound upset.
As they kept talking, Nikaidou-san’s expression and tone gradually softened.
“—She said she’ll come.”
Hanging up, Nikaidou-san returned my phone with a warm smile.
“She kept asking if it was really okay, didn’t she?”
Nikaidou-san had laughed and said It’s fine multiple times, so Kousaka-san must’ve been double-checking.
But asking repeatedly without refusing means—
“She wasn’t expecting an invite and was probably nervous. But once she realized it was okay, she was over the moon.”
Nikaidou-san smiled, clearly pleased as she explained.
Looks like Kousaka-san was genuinely eager to join.
I’m relieved this didn’t turn into pointless meddling.
“Kousaka-san was happy…”
“We totally thought she couldn’t stand us…”
The girls behind Nikaidou-san were stunned too.
This should clear up one big misunderstanding.
Kousaka-san just speaks bluntly when something’s wrong—she’s not looking to fight.
In fact, she wants to get along, so she’s thrilled to be invited.
“She might still come off as aloof since she’s not used to you all, but if you stick with her until she warms up, I’d really appreciate it.”
“No problem. I’m good at connecting with people.”
Seeing Kousaka-san’s joy must’ve convinced Nikaidou-san they could hit it off.
She nodded with a confident grin.
“Thanks. And sorry for taking up your time.”
“No, no, thank you.”
I’m not sure why she’s thanking me, but it’s probably just her being polite.
“Alright, we’re heading out. Have a blast at the Christmas party.”
“Got it! Take care, senpai! Have a sweet night~!”
“—!?”
Charl flinched sharply at Nikaidou-san’s playful teasing.
The word night must’ve hit a sensitive spot.
Her face turned beet red, and the first-year girls blushed while staring at us.
“Oh, uh, I was just teasing, but it’s actually…”
Even Nikaidou-san flushed, realizing what she’d implied.
She looked away awkwardly, and I felt a bit sorry for her.
“She’s just shy, so don’t worry about it.”
I doubt they’ll buy it, but it’s the best I could come up with.
This is probably gonna spread school-wide by New Year’s.
Staying would only dig a deeper hole, so we said our goodbyes and hurried off.
“—So… senpai and her are gonna become adults…”
“Kinda surprising, though. Since Charlotte-senpai’s so smitten with Akihito-senpai, I thought they’d done it ages ago…”
“He’s so kind, even looking out for his kouhai… He probably holds Charlotte-senpai so gently…”
“You never know… Guys like him might turn into wolves at night…”
“Like, Charlotte-senpai getting totally swept away…?”
“««««…»»»»”
Glancing back, the first-years were blushing and exchanging sneaky looks.
What are they whispering about…?
Charl, clinging to my arm, has been fidgeting for a while, so it’s probably about us…
I’m dying to know, but I can’t hear from this distance, so there’s nothing I can do.
No way I’m going back to ask.
Judging by Charl’s reaction, it’s probably nothing wholesome.
Though I was itching to eavesdrop, I rushed away for Charl’s sake.
“««««I wonder what it’s like when those two get intimate…»»»»”
—I felt some seriously intense stares boring into my back, though.
◆◆◆
“…”
On the way home, Charl kept stealing glances at my face but stayed silent.
She’s probably curious about our plans but too shy to bring it up.
All she knows is we’re not picking up Emma-chan and are heading straight home.
As for Emma-chan, Sophia-san’s taking her to give us some alone time.
When we got home—
“Nobody’s here…?”
Normally, Kaguya-san would be around by now, but since Kanon-san’s closing ceremony is today, she’s probably picking her up.
“…”
Charl gave me a hopeful, almost feverish look.
Being alone together might be stirring her desire to get closer.
“Actually, Kanon-san said we don’t have to come back tonight. Wanna change and head to our old place?”
“—!”
As I pulled her close and asked, Charl’s face flushed a vivid red, and she caught her breath.
She totally got what I meant.
“Y-Yes, I’ll get ready right away…!”
She scampered off to her room in a fluster.
She must be super eager.
Since we share a room, I waited by the door for her to finish changing.
“—Sorry for making you wait…!”
When Charl stepped out, she wasn’t in her usual comfy home clothes like a T-shirt and pants.
She wore a black hoodie with a big white heart on the chest and a cute pink miniskirt.
We’re not going out to party, so her effort in dressing up shows she’s thinking about what’s coming, which makes my heart skip.
“That outfit’s adorable.”
“Hehe… Kanon-onee-san bought it for me when we went shopping last time.”
Charl flashed an irresistibly cute smile, spreading her arms to show off the heart.
She’s in such a great mood when she smiles like that.
That day, Kaguya-san came back with armfuls of shopping bags, all packed with new clothes for Charl.
Kanon-san had a blast playing dress-up with Charl and gifted her a ton of clothes as thanks.
“That’s awesome. It suits you perfectly. I’ll change quick too, so wait in the living room, okay?”
I swapped places with her, changed in the room, grabbed what I needed, and headed to the living room.
Charl was on the sofa, fidgeting and swaying with nervous energy.
“Alright, let’s go.”
“Yes…!”
When I called out, Charl happily latched onto me.
She naturally intertwined her fingers with mine in a lover’s grip.
Not satisfied with that, she hugged my right arm with her free hand and rested her head on my shoulder.
She’s in full-on clingy mode.
For some reason, she’s carrying a huge bag—way too big for just a change of clothes.
What’s in there?
“—What about lunch? Wanna eat out?”
As we left and locked the door, I asked about lunch plans.
Since school ended in the morning, we hadn’t eaten yet.
It’s Christmas Eve, so eating out seemed romantic, but…
“I want to cook…”
Looks like Charl’s set on cooking today too.
“Are the cooking tools still there?”
“Yeah, we left them.”
Fancy new cookware was already brought to the new place, so Charl’s usual stuff stayed at the old apartment.
“I need to stop by the supermarket.”
“Right, we need ingredients.”
“…A-kun, you can head to the apartment first if you want.”
“Huh?”
I looked at Charl, thrown off by the sudden suggestion.
She’s never said anything like that before.
Going shopping together was our routine, and even that felt special.
“Am I in the way…?”
“N-No, that’s not it, just…!”
Charl quickly shook her head, then looked away with a guilty expression.
Is there something she’s hiding…?
“Sorry, I don’t really want you out alone…”
If Charl wants to shop solo, I’d respect it, but after the video incident made her a bit famous, I don’t want her out there by herself.
Something could happen.
“Right…”
Charl nodded slightly, seeming convinced.
But her expression wasn’t disappointed—it was strangely embarrassed.
What was she planning to buy?
Curious but not wanting to push, I kept quiet.
At the supermarket—
“This, and this… oh, and this too…”
Charl seemed to have a plan, tossing vegetables into the basket one after another.
I quietly carried the basket, but I had no idea what she was making.
The basket had onions, chives, spinach, and other veggies, plus oysters, eel, mackerel, beef, and pork as main ingredients.
Ginger’s normal, but she even grabbed okra and avocados, which we rarely buy—what’s she cooking…?
Even if she’s shopping for lunch and dinner, it feels like way too much…
“This is getting pricey. You sure…?”
Normally, unless Emma-chan or I request something, Charl picks budget-friendly ingredients, plans a menu, and buys only what’s needed.
But today, she’s going for the expensive stuff.
“It’s fine. I’ll use my allowance.”
“No way, I’ll cover half at least.”
We’re eating together, so I’m definitely pitching in.
She knows she’s splurging.
“I’m buying what I want, so I’ll pay.”
Thinking it’s her treat, Charl shook her head firmly.
“No, we gotta split it fair. If we’re doing this together—”
I stopped mid-sentence, rethinking my words.
Saying this might make her insist on splitting date expenses too, and I’d have no counterargument.
I don’t always pay for everything, but I love treating her sometimes.
If she won’t let me, that’d be a problem.
“I want to pay…”
While I was mulling it over, Charl looked up at me with pleading eyes.
For the sake of future dates, I should respect her wishes here.
“Got it. Thanks. Next time we go on a date, let me treat, okay?”
This feels like the best compromise.
“Yes, I’ll let you spoil me then.”
Charl nodded with a happy smile.
She seems thrilled, so this worked out perfectly.
We paid and headed to our old apartment.
◆◆◆
“—Please, eat lots!”
Charl beamed, proudly presenting the dishes spread across the table.
Meanwhile, I was sweating bullets.
It’s not that she made anything strange.
The sheer volume was just mind-boggling.
The table was loaded with oyster foil bake and oyster-bacon ajillo.
Plus oyster-spinach gratin and oyster acqua pazza—a full-on oyster extravaganza.
And that’s not all: clam miso soup, scallop carpaccio, eel kabayaki, and grilled mackerel—way too much food for just two people.
“Um, Charl…?”
“Yes, what’s wrong?”
When I called out, she flashed a dazzling smile.
For a second, I wondered if I’d upset her, but there’s no hint of that.
She’s used to cooking for six, so maybe she miscalculated the portions…?
No, she’s not the type to make that mistake, and she doesn’t seem confused.
She knows how much I eat, so why this feast…?
“Oh, wanna feed each other…?”
Seeing me hesitate to dig in, Charl slid closer.
She pressed against me, looking up with eager, sparkling eyes.
She’s set on the feeding thing.
“Don’t we need to save some for dinner…?”
I asked, grasping at one last hope.
“I’ll make something else for dinner, so eat all of this!”
But that hope was crushed in an instant.
So this is all for lunch.
Her energy’s different today—maybe that’s why…?
“Fuu, fuu. Here, A-kun, ahh~”
Charl picked up an oyster from the foil bake with chopsticks, blew on it to cool it, and brought it to my mouth.
She’s beyond adorable when she’s this excited, but can my stomach handle this…?
“Ahh… chomp.”
Not wanting to spoil her mood, I ate the oyster.
“Is it good?”
“Yeah, as always, it’s incredible.”
There’s no way Charl’s cooking wouldn’t be delicious.
I don’t eat oysters often and expected them to be strong, but it was surprisingly tasty.
“Then, next one!”
Charl reached for another dish.
“Wait a sec.”
“Huh, what’s wrong…?”
I grabbed her hand to stop her, and she looked up, confused.
“We’re feeding each other, right? My turn.”
At Charl’s current pace, letting her keep feeding me is honestly daunting.
My stomach should be fine, but I feel like she’d keep going even if I got full.
And I can’t say no when she’s feeding me like this.
At least until she’s full, I need her to eat too.
“Oh, right! Then…”
Charl handed me her chopsticks, totally fine with sharing one pair.
She doesn’t mind the indirect kiss.
“What do you want?”
“Anything’s fine, so pick what you like, A-kun.”
Since she chose last time, she wants me to pick now.
“Alright…”
Not wanting to repeat, I picked up a scallop with the chopsticks.
Watching me, Charl closed her eyes and opened her mouth slightly.
I blew on the scallop to cool it and placed it in her waiting mouth, like feeding a little bird.
“Munch, munch…”
Charl covered her mouth as she chewed.
Then, with a gulp—
“Hehe…”
—she let out a blissful giggle.
“What’s up?”
“Sorry… This moment’s just so perfect, I couldn’t help it…”
Apologizing, Charl rested her head on my shoulder.
She’s extra clingy today.
“I’m really happy too.”
The mountain of food makes me nervous, but being alone with Charl is pure bliss.
My heart feels warm, like all my worries are dissolving.
“I’m glad…”
Charl nuzzled her face against my arm.
I’d love to pamper her, but the food’ll get cold.
We can flirt to our hearts’ content after eating, so let’s hold off.
“We can take our time later, so let’s eat first?”
I gently patted Charl’s head and smiled.
“—! Y-Yeah…”
Charl blushed and quickly looked away.
…Huh, why?
Puzzled, I watched as she reached for the chopsticks I was holding.
Taking them, she picked up some eel and brought it to my mouth.
“Here… ahh~…”
Her eyes were misty, like she was lost in a dreamy haze.
◆◆◆
“A-kun, are you okay…?”
After cleaning up, Charl spoke to me as I slumped on the sofa.
I’m so stuffed I can barely move.
Somehow, I managed to eat everything without leaving a crumb.
“I’ll be fine after a rest…”
“I’m sorry for making so much…”
Charl looked at me with worry, her expression tinged with regret.
“No, it was all so delicious I overate.”
“A-kun…”
Reassured by my smile, Charl sat beside me.
As always, she snuggled close.
“What about a bath…?”
A bath?
Oh, she means who goes first tonight, right?
Then, like usual, Charl can go first—
“…”
Suddenly, I caught Charl’s intense, heated gaze.
Wait, that’s not it…
She’s asking if we should bathe now.
“If you want one, go ahead?”
I teased lightly to point out the misunderstanding.
But—
“T-Together… it’s too soon for that, right…?”
Charl took it to a whole new level.
Her pleading look sent my head spinning.
It’s unfair to expect me to resist when she looks at me like that.
But I have a reason to wait until tonight…
“Then, together tonight…?”
It’s all I could manage to say.
“Huh?”
Charl tilted her head, clearly confused.
“…”
She went silent, her brow furrowing in thought.
“Oh…!? Uh, um…!”
Suddenly realizing something, she started flailing in panic.
She must’ve figured out we were on different pages.
Her beautiful face turned redder than I’d ever seen.
And then—
“~~~~~~!”
Letting out a wordless squeal, she bolted.
“Charl!?”
“Don’t come near me…!”
I chased after her, but she darted into the bedroom.
She even locked the door.
“What’re you doing? Open the door…!”
“No, it’s not that, it’s not…! Really, it’s not…!”
She was frantically trying to explain something.
I had no idea what she was getting at.
“Just come out already…!”
“I can’t…! Sniff… You must think I’m a lewd girl now…!”
Charl’s voice was thick with tears.
Calling herself a lewd girl—she must’ve been planning to do it now, not waiting for tonight.
That’s why she mentioned the bath, even though it’s way too early.
“It’s okay, I’m not disappointed…!”
“You’re lying…! You’re just being kind because that’s who you are…!”
This must’ve hit her hard.
She’s so shy, she’s probably mortified.
“I mean it! Charl—!”
That you’re a lewd girl? I already knew that—I caught myself just before saying it.
That would only hurt her more.
Instead—
“I don’t care if you’re lewd! Honestly, I’m thrilled about it!”
I blurted out something to show I accepted her, my face burning.
I’m beyond embarrassed.
“T-Thrilled? That’s weird…! No way…!”
Thinking I was just comforting her, Charl didn’t buy it.
Since we’ve never talked about this before, it’s no surprise.
“It’s true…! I’m a guy too! Having a girlfriend who’s into that stuff makes me happy…!”
Desperately, I scrambled for words she’d believe.
I’m throwing out whatever comes to mind, so it might sound crazy—but it’s the truth.
“…”
Maybe my desperation got through, because Charl didn’t argue back.
She went quiet—maybe she’s mulling it over?
Should I say more—As I wondered, the lock clicked softly.
The door creaked open, and Charl peeked out halfway.
“Really…?”
Her eyes searched mine, trying to spot any hint of a lie.
“I wouldn’t lie about this.”
I held the doorknob to keep her from slipping away and gave her a reassuring smile.
“Is it okay… even if I’m a lewd girl…?”
I thought she’d deny it, but she owned it.
Asking that with those puppy eyes is just cheating.
She really knows how to pull at a guy’s heartstrings.
“I love it, so come out.”
I let go of the doorknob, stepped into her view, and opened my arms wide.
Then—
“—!”
Charl’s face lit up, and she rushed out, throwing herself into my embrace.
I caught her tightly and gently stroked the back of her head.
“Nnh…”
Maybe because she’d felt hurt, Charl’s cheeks softened in relief.
She nuzzled her face against my chest.
She’s such an irresistibly clingy, adorable girl.
We moved to the sofa, and I pampered clingy Charl to my heart’s content.
—Of course, anything spicy is on hold until tonight.
