Hayashi Megumi’s Scheme
Still, it’s surprising.
Observing Yamamoto’s attitude from earlier, I didn’t voice it, but I couldn’t help feeling puzzled.
Back in high school, maybe it wasn’t so strange, but thinking about the time I’ve spent holed up in this room thanks to him, seeing Yamamoto like this now feels… off.
The Yamamoto I’ve seen in this room was always someone who acted for others, putting their needs first.
So, watching a guy like that stubbornly refuse to go back to his family home? Yeah, it’s no wonder I’d find it odd.
Come to think of it, all this time, he’s been telling me to go back to my own family, yet he’s never once shown any sign of returning to his.
When I pointed out that he should go back home too, he’d dodge the topic with some vague response.
Knowing Yamamoto, I thought he was just saying that to call me out for deflecting when I’d get sulky and try to change the subject. But apparently, that wasn’t the case.
Surprisingly, despite all the high-and-mighty things he’s said to me, I still haven’t felt disappointed or exasperated with him—not even a little.
…If anything, it’s, well, you know.
He’s got this unexpectedly cute side to him, doesn’t he?
Is it because I’m smitten? To think my fondness for him would actually grow even more.
Nihihi, I realized I was grinning. That’s how thrilled I was to discover this weakness of his.
“If it’s your little sister’s request, you don’t have much choice, do you? Go home this weekend.”
Yamamoto’s expression didn’t soften one bit.
You really don’t want to go home that badly?
Man, what a guy. He’s kinda adorable.
“…Fine, no helping it.”
“What’re you up to, Hayashi?”
“I’m coming with you to your family home.”
I didn’t realize it at the time, caught up in my excitement, but looking back, that statement makes no sense, even to me.
Probably, in that moment, seeing Yamamoto’s vulnerability stirred some kind of protective instinct in me.
If he’s so reluctant about it, I’ll tackle it with him.
Without even considering that an outsider butting in might complicate things, I said it like it was the most natural thing in the world.
“Nah, I’m good. I’ll go back alone.”
Yamamoto said.
“No way. You’ll just come up with some excuse and not go, won’t you?”
“…I wouldn’t do that.”
“What was that pause just now?”
Up until that moment, I’d assumed Yamamoto would eventually go back home, but that hesitation completely changed my impression of him.
He’s probably planning to slip away the first chance he gets.
“…I’ll be fine. Just leave me alone.”
“Absolutely not.”
Even though I was getting this deep into his business, I couldn’t sense any irritation on Yamamoto’s face.
Maybe that’s why I kept pushing so confidently.
“Didn’t you say it yourself? Since we’re living together, it’s only natural we help each other out, right?”
“…Is this helping?”
“Don’t worry! Just trust me, like you’re boarding a grand ship!”
“A grand ship with a defective structure isn’t exactly trustworthy.”
“It’ll be fine. If it sinks, we’ll go down together.”
“No, please make sure it doesn’t sink.”
I threw in that jab, but Yamamoto just stared at me for a moment before letting out an exasperated sigh.
I wonder what kind of face I was making just then.
Probably, despite my words about earning his trust, my eyes didn’t show much intent to reassure him.
If anything, I was thrilled at the thought of spending even a little more time with Yamamoto.
Getting to go to his family home with him.
I bet my eyes were practically sparkling with joy at the thought.
“…Alright, fine. Do whatever you want.”
“Yup, I will.”
I smiled.
“Thanks, Yamamoto.”
Without responding, Yamamoto quietly started eating dinner.
I’m writing this wondering how many times the heroine’s gone back to her hometown in such a short period.
