Hayashi Megumi’s housemate
While preparing dinner, a worry lingered in my mind. What was that worry, you ask? It was about the guy I’m currently living with.
That Yamamoto guy, did he call his family or not?
Yesterday, a package arrived from his folks for his allowance.
At first, when the topic of his parents came up, he responded with a really annoyed look. Well, I get it—being at that age and having people nag about your relationship with your parents must be irritating, so it’s no surprise he’d make that face. But no matter how annoying it is, I think gratitude or apologies should be expressed sincerely and thoroughly.
That’s why I think if a package arrived, he should hurry up and call to thank them.
But ever since that incident, he hasn’t shown any sign of making that call.
Well, it’s possible he did it secretly when I wasn’t looking, but unfortunately, in this cramped room meant for one person, that possibility seems slim.
“Hey, did you call your parents?”
In times like this, I figured I’d just ask Yamamoto directly.
That’s what I decided to do.
…Well, Yamamoto might seem lazy, but he’s actually pretty reliable, so he’s probably already made the call.
It’s all just me overthinking things.
That’s what I assumed.
But Yamamoto turned away with a complicated expression.
“Wait, no way, you still haven’t called?”
Yamamoto set the dinner he was holding onto the table.
“I did, okay?”
“Liar. You’re terrible at it.”
Once again, Yamamoto looked away.
…That was unexpected.
To think that Yamamoto of all people would lie to me just to avoid something bothersome.
That’s right.
He’s dodging it.
Didn’t he say before?
He said it with such a smug face, didn’t he?
“Didn’t you say you face everything head-on?”
My tone came out cold, but it’s not like I meant to blame Yamamoto.
It’s not like I’m disappointed in him either.
There’s no doubt in my mind that this guy is someone who follows through on his words.
It’s just… I was curious.
Why is he going out of his way to avoid something like this?
“…This isn’t dodging.”
“Then what is it?”
“…A strategic retreat.”
“So, dodging.”
When I pointed that out, Yamamoto closed his eyes with a strained expression.
…I’ve never seen Yamamoto make such a pained face before. It’s kind of amusing.
“It’s just saying thank you, right?”
“Yeah, but it’s not just that.”
“Just make the call already.”
“…Later, okay?”
“No. Now.”
“Can’t it wait until after dinner?”
“You’re just gonna blow it off if I let you.”
I snatched the plate Yamamoto had set on the table.
Yamamoto slumped his shoulders, grabbed his phone, and left the living room.
He headed toward the front door.
After a while, I could hear his quiet voice talking.
“…Hello? Yeah, it’s me. Sorry, I’m in the middle of dinner.”
I couldn’t exactly eat alone while I’d forced him to make the call by taking his food.
I perked up my ears to his soft voice and quietly waited for him to come back.
“Yeah, it arrived. Thanks. …Huh? Oh, really? That’s awesome, congrats.”
What’s that?
Despite acting so reluctant, he’s talking pretty normally, isn’t he?
“Are Mom and Dad there? …Got it. Alright, just pass the message along.”
…Wait, so he’s not an only child?
“Huh? …No, not for a while. I’m kinda busy right now.”
His voice sounded a bit awkward.
“…Yeah. Yeah…? Okay, okay, I get it…”
Maybe he’s got a little sister he can’t say no to?
Hearing Yamamoto’s voice, like he’s giving in to someone’s pushiness, makes me think that.
“Alright, then. Yeah. Later. I’ll let you know when I’m coming back.”
Yamamoto’s voice cut off, and after a moment, I heard his footsteps approaching.
Someone who casually eavesdrops on phone calls
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