Chapter 2 | Two Popular Idols, an Angel, and a Gaming Addict—Can This Really Work!?

 

The three of us stood frozen, eyes wide, staring at one another in disbelief.

Komori Risuzu, a member of Star☆Mines, was the first to break the silence. “…Onii, come with me for a sec.”

“Y-Yeah,” I stammered, letting her grip my arm and pull me out of the living room.

Rinka remained behind, motionless, lost in thought.

In the hallway, alone, Risuzu’s voice was sharp. “…Onii, what’s going on? Explain.”

I was just as rattled as she was, but I stuck to the truth. “Rinka’s my girlfriend.”

Her eyes narrowed. “…Did you, like, blackmail her or something?”

“That’s harsh! I get why you’d think that, but… we’re genuinely in love.”

“…No need to get all sappy,” she muttered, grimacing in frustration. “I don’t get it.”

I felt the same confusion. “What about you, Ris? You’re Komori Risuzu from Star☆Mines!”

“…I tried to tell you. Multiple times… but you made it impossible.”

“Why? I didn’t do anything.”

“…Ignorance is a sin,” she said cryptically.

“I-I don’t get it! And making me call you Ris—what’s that about?!”

“…Ris… it’s cute.”

“Cute!? That’s it!?”

“…That’s why I kept trying to tell you.”

For some reason, Risuzu shot me an annoyed glare, her frustration outpacing mine. No way. Had I really not known my little sister’s real name until today? That stung.

“Just to check, is it okay if I call you Risuzu from now on?”

“…Sure. You can even add ‘Your Excellency’ if you want.”

“You’re totally messing with me, Risuzu. Also, didn’t you say you were a streamer? What’s that about?”

“…Yeah. I meant being an idol.”

“A streamer and a popular idol are completely different!”

“…The essence is the same. Spreading hope and smiles, making everyone happy.”

“But you keep stirring up controversies, don’t you? You’re spreading sparks, not smiles.”

“…I’ve done nothing wrong. The ones who don’t get me are uncivilized barbarians.” She struck a smug pose, utterly unbefitting an idol.

“…More importantly, about Rinka-san. Are you really dating her?”

“Yeah… I’ll say it again, Rinka and I are together.”

“…It feels like two important people were taken from me at once. I might fall into darkness.”

Risuzu clutched her chest, looking like she might cry. I couldn’t fully grasp her feelings, but I could imagine. Her brother, who she was finally bonding with, and the woman she admired were dating. That had to stir up a mess of emotions.

“So, Risuzu… you’re not happy about this?”

“…You thought I’d be happy, so you invited Rinka-san over?”

“Yeah. You’re a huge fan of hers, right? That’s why I called her…”

If they’re in the same group, they’ve met plenty of times. No need to arrange a meeting. That explained why all of Risuzu’s Rinka merch had handwritten signatures—easy to get when you’re teammates.

“I wanted to make you happy, Risuzu, but I messed up. Sorry.”

“…I’m happy that Rinka-san came.”

“Really?”

“…Yeah.”

“Then what’s bothering you?”

“…Onii…!”

Risuzu clamped her mouth shut, refusing to say more. Something was clearly upsetting her.

“…I’m going back to Rinka-san now.”

“Y-Yeah.”

We returned to the living room, where Rinka sat on the sofa, waiting.

“Oh, are you done talking?” she asked.

“For now…” I replied. “You’re awfully calm, Rinka.”

“I suppose. Kazuto’s little sister is Risuzu. That’s all there is to it, right?”

Her adaptability was unreal. Was this the composure of a cool-type idol?

“…You didn’t tell me about your boyfriend,” Risuzu said, her tone accusatory as she approached with a dissatisfied expression.

The air grew heavy. Rinka averted her gaze briefly but stood and bowed. “I’m sorry. It’s an excuse, but I didn’t have the right moment to tell you.”

“…It hurts that you didn’t tell me.”

“I’m really sorry…”

As Risuzu hung her head, Rinka gently stroked her hair, then enveloped her in a warm embrace, like a mother doting on her daughter. Their heights aligned perfectly, and Risuzu buried her face in Rinka’s chest. Then, suspiciously, Risuzu’s right hand slid toward Rinka’s thigh.

“…You could’ve told me about your boyfriend anytime,” Risuzu murmured.

“I was waiting for the right moment. We’ve all been busy lately, haven’t we?”

“…You were the busiest, Rinka-san.”

“True. Once things calm down, I’ll explain properly to everyone.”

“…Mm.”

“But I’m thrilled you’re my little sister, Risuzu. Here’s to getting along from now on.”

“…Little sister? I don’t really get it, but I’m happy too.”

Rinka continued to hug her with genuine affection, patting her head. Their closeness was evident, but Risuzu’s right hand was still groping Rinka’s thigh, her desires painfully obvious.

“…How did you two end up together?” Risuzu asked.

“An online game,” Rinka replied. “Kazuto and I met in an online game and built a pure, wholesome relationship.”

“…An online game… You mean Black Plains?”

“Exactly. Do you play too, Risuzu?”

“…Yeah. A certain perverted Onii got me into it.”

Being called a pervert stung. Rinka just smiled warmly. “Is that so? Hehe.” Please deny it.

“…Rinka-san, you should be more careful choosing a partner,” Risuzu said pointedly.

I nearly snapped back but held my tongue. Objectively, a popular idol and an online-game addict were a mismatched pair.

“Risuzu, Kazuto is a wonderful guy. And we’re not just dating. Kazuto and I are married—oh!” Rinka stopped, panicking at her slip.

Risuzu, sharp as ever, pulled back from Rinka’s chest and stared into her eyes. “…Not dating…? Married? What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Uh, well, it’s…!”

“…You’re hiding something…”

Under Risuzu’s intense gaze, Rinka faltered, glancing at me for help. Why did she let that slip? Risuzu’s attachment to family bonds made her reaction unpredictable, especially to Rinka’s belief that online-game marriage equaled real-life marriage.

“…Rinka-san?” Risuzu pressed.

“I’m sorry, Kazuto. Keeping it a secret is painful, and lying to a teammate is worse.”

“Huh—?”

“Risuzu, the truth is, Kazuto and I are married.”

“…?”

Rinka’s bold declaration left me panicking. Risuzu’s mouth hung open in shock. Three different reactions, and then Rinka doubled down.

“I’m Kazuto’s wife.”

“…H-Huh? W-Wait, what…? Huh?”

Risuzu’s confusion was almost comical, like she’d been banned from a game. Rinka locked eyes with her and delivered the final blow.

“Kazuto and I are married. Bound by an eternal, unbreakable soul connection.”

“…Uh, w-what, um… huh…?”

Her mind seemed to race with frantic calculations. Finally grasping reality, Risuzu snapped back and let out a bizarre scream. “F-Fwaaaaaaaah!?”

Well, yeah, that was expected. She’d been so sure Rinka didn’t have a boyfriend, and now, not only was I dating her, but Rinka was declaring herself my wife.

“…M-Married means… you two have, like, done all sorts of…!?” Risuzu stammered.

“Yes… Kazuto and I have done things we could never tell anyone,” Rinka said, blushing and touching her cheek.

“…R-R-Rinka-san, with Onii…!?”

“Hold on, we haven’t done anything weird, okay?” I interjected. At most, we’d kissed twice as lovers—nothing scandalous.

“…Th-Then, Onii… has he, like, groped those boobs directly—?”

“I haven’t! Not even through clothes!”

“…A-And making a baby—?”

“Haven’t done that either! We’re keeping it wholesome!”

“True,” Rinka added proudly. “But I’ve thought of tons of baby names. For both boys and girls. Probably a hundred in total.”

That was terrifyingly premature. A hundred names?

“…W-Wedding ceremony…?” Risuzu asked.

“In the online game. We got married in the online game. We’re too young to marry in real life.”

“…Huh? Then, Rinka-san… isn’t that just marriage in the game…?”

“No. If we married in the online game, we’re married in real life too.”

“…I think I need to see an ENT doctor.”

“You’re fine, Risuzu! You’re hearing everything clearly!” I said, snapping her back to reality.

She must’ve never imagined her respected cool-type idol would say something so outlandish.

“…Rinka-san, please stop joking.”

“I’m not joking. I’m serious.”

Rinka’s unwavering declaration left Risuzu speechless.

“I know some eccentric people don’t see online-game marriage as real-life marriage. You’re one of them, aren’t you, Risuzu?”

“…N-No… You’re the eccentric one, Rinka-san…! Like, insanely so…!”

“I believe you’ll understand, Risuzu. Nana understood too.”

“…Nana-san knows about this?”

“Yes. Right now, only you and Nana know about my relationship with Kazuto. I plan to explain to the other members eventually.”

“…I can already imagine the chaos…!”

Risuzu clutched her head, groaning in distress, her reaction surprisingly grounded.

“…Marriage in an online game… Wait, that crazy girl called Rin… was that you, Rinka-san…?”

“Crazy girl? Did you just call me a crazy girl—?”

“…A family in an online game… That’s just…! Onii, what do you think?”

“Hey, Risuzu, you just called me a crazy girl—?”

“I was shocked at first too. Honestly, I still don’t fully get it.”

“…Good. Then—”

“But I know Rinka’s feelings are real. It’s weird, but not something I’d outright reject.”

“…Am I the only sane one…?”

“Relax, we’re all sane.”

Risuzu tried to retort but stopped short, her mouth moving silently before she faced Rinka with a serious expression.

“…Rinka-san, I respect you.”

“I feel the same. I love your unapologetic style. No matter what anyone says, you stay true to yourself.”

Rinka’s tone confirmed that KomORI Risuzu’s idol persona was her true self. She’d struggled with her image at debut but chose to embrace her authenticity. Spending time with her made that clear.

“…I love how you seem cold but are so kind. You work the hardest, always looking out for everyone, your thighs are soft, your scolding is strict but full of love… I love and respect you, Rinka-san.”

“Risuzu, you think so highly of me…!”

Rinka was touched, though the thigh comment was unnecessary.

“…But this whole thing… Ugh!” Risuzu groaned, clutching her head again.

Rinka placed a hand on her shoulder and said gently, “I know. Being suddenly introduced to a husband is confusing… I’m sorry.”

That wasn’t the issue. The problem was Rinka’s belief that online-game marriage equaled real-life marriage.

What would Risuzu do next? Others had somehow accepted it, some even embracing it fully. But Risuzu—

“…I love Rinka-san… but marriage in an online game…!”

“Risuzu?”

“…Fgh, nnnn!!”

Scratching her head furiously, Risuzu bolted toward the stairs, her loud footsteps echoing as she stomped up. Rinka and I exchanged a glance before chasing after her. Before we could catch up, she slammed her door shut with a BAM and locked herself in.

I knocked, but there was no response. Rinka tried next, calling out, “Risuzu? What’s wrong all of a sudden?”

“…I don’t want to talk right now,” came a faint voice. “…Even sorting it out, it doesn’t make sense… I was already a bit upset that Onii had a girlfriend. And that girlfriend being Rinka-san, who I respect… That shocked me and made me feel complicated…”

We listened quietly to her halting words.

“…But marriage…! What’s with that…!? I get that you can bond in an online game… But marriage is weird.”

“Risuzu, that’s—”

“…I don’t believe you can form family-like bonds in an online game.”

I understood her feelings. I still couldn’t fully accept it as normal either. But Rinka’s feelings were genuine, no doubt about it. Risuzu, however, had her own firm beliefs about family.

“…I accepted Onii as family because he accepted me as I am now… When I was struggling, he accepted me without caring about family ties… And then he said we’d be family.”

She continued, her voice faint but resolute.

“…But I don’t believe you can have that deep of an exchange in an online game.”

Rinka, who’d been listening silently, finally spoke. “Risuzu, you’re wrong. In an online game, where status and appearance are unknown, a person’s true character shines through. There are exceptions, of course. But fundamentally, the online-game world lets you bare your pure heart and connect with others.”

No response. Was she thinking of a comeback? The door creaked open slightly, and Risuzu peeked out.

“…An online game is just a game.”

Rinka’s face stiffened, as if Risuzu had triggered something deep. With cold, piercing eyes, Rinka said slowly, “I won’t forgive anyone who denies online games—our world. Not even you, Risuzu…!!”

“—Eep!” Risuzu squeaked like a frightened bird and retreated, slamming the door shut.

Knocking and calling out got no response. Feeling the anger radiating from Rinka beside me, I spoke nervously. “Uh, R-Rinka-sama?”

“Just a game? Sure, it’s a game. But I can’t forgive that dismissive attitude. Online games are mine and Kazuto’s—!”

Rinka clenched her teeth, suppressing her anger. Everyone has something precious they won’t compromise on. For Rinka, it was online games and her belief that online-game marriage equaled real-life marriage. For Risuzu, it was her conviction that family required deep real-life interactions.

I stood in an ambiguous position, able to sympathize with both. Rinka’s view felt extreme, but I knew real bonds could form in online games. Yet I also understood Risuzu’s idealization of family.

“Haa… This is a mess,” I muttered.

“Kazuto, can I stay at this house starting today?”

“Sure, but is everything okay?”

“Yes, I’ll manage with idol work. Right now… it’s about Risuzu. She needs to understand how noble the online-game world is.”

“I don’t think forcing your views is a good idea…”

“I’m not forcing—I want her to understand. I can’t accept her looking down on online games. And I want her to acknowledge that we’re husband and wife…!”

Rinka’s eyes burned with determination. It felt like a long road ahead.

☆

Two days passed, but Rinka and Risuzu hadn’t reconciled. Maybe some distance would help? But their interactions suggested otherwise. Living under the same roof, the three of us were caught in a tense cycle. Rinka would try talking to Risuzu, who would awkwardly walk away. Rinka would push harder, passionately explaining the virtues of online games, only for Risuzu to mutter, “…Just a game. Not deep,” piercing Rinka’s heart. That pattern repeated for two days.

Caught between them, my stomach churned. This was bizarre—living with two popular idols, a situation most guys would envy, yet it was pure hell.

“Haa… At least we eat dinner together… No, that’s hell too.”

Silent dinners weren’t about savoring the meal but rejecting conversation. My HP was draining from this poison. The food was delicious, yet the oppressive silence made my chopsticks feel heavy.

Then Rinka spoke to Risuzu. “Want to play an online game together after this?”

“…Why?”

“Explaining with words is hard… I want you to experience the charm of online games by playing.”

“…I can’t play with you, Rinka-san…” Risuzu mumbled, hesitating, avoiding her eyes. It must be awkward after repeatedly rejecting Rinka’s views.

“…Besides, I played with Onii the other day.”

“Just mining, right? You haven’t experienced the real fun.”

“…Yeah. The clanging sounds are stuck in my head. I’m getting neurotic.”

“I get that. Mining isn’t un-fun, but there’s a limit to everything.”

“…True. Yet our Onii…!”

“Really, my husband…!”

“Hey, why’s this turning into bashing me?” I protested as they sighed in unison, glancing at me with disappointment. Somehow, I’d become the odd one out.

“…You can’t become family in an online game,” Risuzu said.

“That’s not true. I won’t let you deny that,” Rinka countered.

“…I love and respect Rinka-san. But I’m not blindly devoted.”

“And?”

“…If something’s wrong, I’ll say it. You can’t become a real family with just an online game.”

“You don’t know, so let me enlighten you. People have gotten married in real life from online-game relationships. There’s even a Black Plains-themed wedding package.”

“…You’re missing my point. I’m saying it’s wrong to think online-game marriage equals real-life marriage.”

“There’s nothing wrong with it. I know some people separate online games and reality. But at its core, online games are where you face others with your true heart… So, online-game marriage equals real-life marriage.”

Classic Rinka—absurd yet oddly persuasive. But Risuzu wasn’t swayed.

“…You can face people sincerely in real life too.”

“Yes, of course. I’m not denying that. I’m just saying it’s easier to show your true heart in online games.”

“…I can’t accept that… I can’t.”

Shoveling food into her mouth, Risuzu finished quickly and fled toward the stairs. Rinka opened her mouth to speak but only watched her go.

“I’m hopeless… I keep getting too heated. I’m not considering Risuzu’s feelings,” Rinka said.

“You’re trying, Rinka.”

“Trying isn’t enough. It’s about results… Haa.”

Her exhaustion was palpable, her face weary.

“You okay? You look tired…”

“Yes, with idol work and… a lot on my mind.”

“How about I handle cooking, at least?”

“You can only make boiled eggs, right?”

“Yup.”

“I’ll do it. I enjoy cooking… It’s a good distraction.”

“Got it… Thanks, always.”

I bowed, and Rinka smiled gently. “It’s fine.”

Fun fact: Risuzu can only make instant noodles. Before Rinka came, we survived on them. And I’m stuck with boiled eggs. We’re the worst siblings when it comes to boiling water.

“How can I get Risuzu to accept it?” Rinka asked.

“That’s a tough one.”

It was a miracle others had accepted it. This was probably the normal reaction.

“I love Risuzu, and I want to make up with her… But denying the bonds of online games is like denying me. I want her to acknowledge it somehow.”

It felt like a guy trying to get his girlfriend’s dad to approve their marriage. Knowing Rinka’s true feelings, I wanted to help. Not to force her views but to seek acknowledgment.

“Sorry, I’ll think about it alone.”

Finishing her meal, Rinka cleared the dishes and went upstairs to her room.

“Guess I’ll talk to Risuzu too…”

I didn’t know what I could do, but I wanted to hear both their feelings and help. After washing the dishes, I knocked on Risuzu’s door. Surprisingly, it opened quickly, and she glared at me, grumpy.

“…What?”

“Just wanted to talk a bit.”

“…About Rinka-san?”

“Well, yeah…”

“…Come in.”

Inside, her room was as chuunibyou as ever, though the bug cage was gone. I sat on the floor, and Risuzu plopped onto her bed, muttering, “…Pervert.”

“What’s that out of nowhere?”

“…You’re thrilled having a popular idol girlfriend call you her husband.”

“I’m not thrilled. More like confused.”

I didn’t dislike Rinka’s behavior, but I’d prefer a normal girlfriend first. Staring at a Rinka poster on the wall, her cool-type aura radiated, her serious expression almost too cute.

“…If I’d come to this house sooner… maybe Onii and I…”

“Huh?”

Her voice was too soft to catch. I looked at her, but she shook her head, signaling to drop it.

“…No, it’s nothing. This problem’s unsolvable. I just have to accept it.”

It sounded more like giving up than accepting. With a self-deprecating smile, Risuzu stared at a seven-armed doll on the floor. As her brother—no, as a person—I wanted to help.

“If there’s anything I can do, tell me.”

“…The root of all evil has the nerve to say that…!”

“Whoa, what’s that supposed to mean?”

Risuzu shot me a sharp glare, but didn’t elaborate, so I got to the point.

“Straight up, do you hate Rinka now?”

“…No. I still love her. I want to make up with her. I don’t want to fight.”

“Got it. Then—”

“…But I can’t understand the ‘online-game marriage equals real-life marriage’ thing. I denied something important to her. And… I still can’t understand it.”

“Is it hard to accept too?”

“…I believe family isn’t something you can become so easily. Not with that kind of play… Friends, maybe.”

I understood some of what she was saying. Her view on family was as non-negotiable as Rinka’s beliefs.

“…As long as I can’t understand, I can’t truly make up with her. Even if I pretend to accept it, she’ll see through me. She hates fakes… She’ll hate me.”

“I don’t think she’d hate you, but… it might get awkward.”

Imagining being disliked saddened Risuzu, her eyes teary. She really loved Rinka. They both wanted to reconcile, but their core beliefs clashed.

The issue was clearer now. If Risuzu could accept Rinka’s idea, even without understanding it, that might be the key. If she could find enough charm in online games to be open-minded—

“…I’m trying to accept it in my own way,” Risuzu said.

“Oh, really? What’re you doing?”

“…I’ve been interacting with people in the online game. Talking to lots of people to see if bonds can form there… Testing it out.”

“That’s great, Risuzu. How’s it going?”

“…I got a two-day account suspension.”

“Why!? Seriously, why…!?”

“…I just had fun chatting with people… That’s all.”

She definitely provoked someone. I’d scold her later, as her brother.

“…Onii, I need to prep for tomorrow… Get out.”

“Got it. Thanks for talking.”

Leaving her room, I returned to the living room, mulling things over. The problem was clear; I just needed a solution.

“What to do…”

If Risuzu could feel the charm of online games and believe deep bonds were possible, she might accept Rinka’s views without fully understanding them. The quickest way was for the three of us to play together and have fun. Building bonds with strangers took too long, and Risuzu might get bored. Since online games were casual, friendships could end easily. Long-term connections were rare.

Having Rinka and Risuzu, already close, play together, enjoy it, reconcile, and let Risuzu discover the charm of online games—that seemed the best solution.

“But getting Risuzu to play with Rinka is tough, and her account’s suspended…!”

Should I wait for time to fix it? No, that felt wrong. I recalled Rinka’s exhausted expression. I couldn’t add more strain. She was already busy with idol work.

“What can I do… What can I do…!”

The intercom buzzed, interrupting my thoughts. A visitor. I hurried to the door and opened it to find Kasumi-san, looking troubled, with Nonoa-chan beside her, tears streaming down her face.

“Sniff, hic… sob. Sniff… Kazuto-oniichan…!” Nonoa-chan sobbed uncontrollably.

☆

Her eyes were bloodshot, her cheeks glistening with tears. She wiped them with her small hands, still crying.

“Uh, Kasumi-san, what’s going on…?”

“Haha… Seems Nonoa missed Kazuto-kun so much…”

“She’s crying because she was lonely?”

Kasumi-san nodded, stroking Nonoa-chan’s head. Oh no.

“She’s also been hung up on saying she hated you. Today, she couldn’t hold it in and broke down.”

“I see…”

Seeing Nonoa-chan’s tears, my heart ached. “Sorry for coming so suddenly, Kazuto-kun. I messaged you and Rinka earlier about bringing Nonoa…”

I checked my phone—sure enough, a message from Kasumi-san. I’d been too caught up with Risuzu and Rinka to notice. Rinka probably missed it too.

“Sob… hic, sniff… Kazuto-oniichan…!”

Nonoa-chan clung tightly to my right leg like a koala. I couldn’t help but pat her head, feeling her warmth from crying. It was oddly endearing.

“Sorry, but could you look after Nonoa for a bit?”

“You mean have her stay here?”

“Yeah. Rinka’s here, and… Risuzu-chan too, right? It’s the perfect environment for Nonoa.”

From her tone, Risuzu and Nonoa-chan were close.

“Man, who’d have thought Kazuto-boy’s sister was Risuzu-chan? The world’s small, huh?”

“Yeah…”

My online-game wife was a popular idol, so my stepsister being one too wasn’t that strange… maybe?

“Hey, Kazuto, who’s here—Oh, it’s Onee-chan. And Nonoa too,” Rinka called, drawn by our voices.

“Nonoa-chan’s staying over from today.”

“I see… She missed Kazuto so much she came crying… I can relate,” Rinka said, nodding knowingly at Nonoa-chan clinging to my leg. Relate to what?

“Hey, maybe I’ll stay too~ Join Kazuto-boy’s harem?” Kasumi-san teased.

“Please spare me, I can feel murderous intent behind me.”

Rinka’s glare at the back of my head reacted to “harem.” I didn’t need to look to know. “Just kidding, Rinka. Don’t give me that killer look… Here’s Nonoa’s sleepover kit.”

“Even if you’re my sister, I won’t forgive you if you touch my husband… Even as a joke,” Rinka said calmly, taking the bag.

Kasumi-san laughed nervously and fled to her car. Left behind were me, Rinka, and Nonoa-chan, still crying and clinging to my leg.

“Nonoa-chan? Let’s go inside. Sorry, okay?”

I spoke gently, patting her head. She didn’t look up but whispered, “…It’s okay.”

“Stare,” Rinka muttered.

“Rinka?”

“As expected, my biggest rival is the little sister. Tricky…!”

What was she worrying about? She stared at Nonoa-chan with a complicated expression. I just thought she was cute.

“Kazuto-oniichan… Carry me.”

“Alright.”

Her hoarse, small voice was impossible to refuse. I picked her up as she raised her arms, her thin arms wrapping around my neck.

“…Nonoa-chan’s voice… I heard Nonoa-chan’s voice…!” Risuzu’s frantic footsteps echoed from the stairs as she burst onto the scene like an insect. She’d heard Nonoa-chan from her room?

“…Oh, Rinka-san too…”

“Risuzu…”

Their eyes met, and they awkwardly looked away. The air grew heavy, but Risuzu’s gaze locked onto Nonoa-chan, brightening the mood.

“…Nonoa-chan… It’s really Nonoa-chan… Hehe.”

“Stop with the creepy eyes. You’ll scare her.”

Risuzu’s lustful grin made me wary. Nonoa-chan was in danger!

“…Nonoa-chan… Did you come to see me…?”

“Nuh-uh. Nope.”

“…T-Tsundere?”

“Give it up, Risuzu. Nonoa-chan came to see me.”

“…I wanna hold Nonoa-chan too. We’re super close,” Risuzu said robotically.

“Right now, I want Kazuto-oniichan,” Nonoa-chan replied, burying her face in my chest.

Risuzu trembled, tears welling up. “…N-Normally, she lets me hold her… And rub cheeks…!”

“Hey, Rinka, is Risuzu obsessed with Nonoa-chan? Like, in a kinda creepy way?”

“Oh, yes, she loves her. Creepy or not, she’s always been good to Nonoa.”

“I see. But her behavior feels a bit… criminal?”

“Huh? It’s normal, isn’t it?”

“Your sense of love is warped…!”

Rinka blinked innocently, but her sense of love was far from normal.

“…Nonoa-chan… I’ll hold you…!”

“No. I want Kazuto-oniichan.”

“…Tch… Damn it… Damn Onii…!”

Muttering curses, Risuzu glared at me. Scary!

Rinka, looking displeased, spoke up. “Kazuto, I’m happy you’re doting on your sister… But neglecting your precious wife? Look, your lonely wife is right here.”

She poked my arm, looking adorably heart-pounding. But I was holding a crying Nonoa-chan…

“Sorry, Nonoa-chan. Can I put you down?”

“…Sniff… Kazuto-oniichan, do you hate me…?”

“Not at all! I love you, Nonoa-chan!”

“…Hic, sniff, mm.”

She calmed down, her near-tears face settling. But Rinka and Risuzu lost their cool.

“L-Love…? So Kazuto’s a lolicon… Choosing a little girl over his wife…!” Rinka trembled.

“…If I get rid of Onii, I can have Nonoa-chan’s attention… Heh heh,” Risuzu chuckled villainously.

This was getting bad. Things were spiraling into chaos!

☆

Bedtime came, and I returned to my room, followed by a toddling Nonoa-chan, with Rinka and Risuzu trailing behind. Four of us in my room—a harem on the surface, but pure hell inside. The only comfort was Nonoa-chan’s expressive, adorable face.

“I’m sleeping with Kazuto-oniichan!” she declared.

“Alright, let’s sleep together,” I said warmly, patting her head.

“You’re talking like a grandpa doting on his grandkid…” Rinka muttered, looking put off.

“…I wanna sleep with Nonoa-chan too…!” Risuzu said.

“You really love Nonoa-chan, huh?”

“…Obviously. I don’t need a reason. I just love Nonoa-chan. …Mostly because I like things smaller than me. I can always be in control.”

I sensed danger in Risuzu’s casual admission. I didn’t think she’d hurt Nonoa-chan, but…

“Kazuto-oniichan, help me change into pajamas!”

“Uh, that’s…”

“You won’t?” Her big, teary eyes looked up, her childish whims unfairly cute.

“…I’ll change her,” Rinka offered.

“If you’re doing it, Risuzu, I might as well…!”

“…Leave it to me. I’ve even changed Nonoa-chan’s diapers.”

“No way! That’s gotta be a lie!”

“As her sister, I’ve done it. So I have experience… You can trust me, Kazuto.”

“Trust in what!? And why are you staring at my lower half!?”

“Kazuto-oniichan, hurry up~”

“…N-Nonoa-chan… I’ll… guhehehe!”

Too chaotic! Rinka was staring at my lower half (not sexually), Nonoa-chan was begging me to change her, and Risuzu was creeping toward her with a criminal grin. Was it a rule that popular idols had to be eccentrics?

“Nonoa-chan! Let Rinka change you! And sleep with her tonight!”

“I want Kazuto-oniichan. Change me~”

“Even I, your wife, have never been changed by you…!” Rinka said, shooting me jealous glares.

“Please, Nonoa-chan! Think of it as saving me!”

My desperate plea got through, and Nonoa-chan reluctantly mumbled, “…Okay.”

Rinka and Nonoa-chan left together, and Risuzu followed after a bit.

“Haa… This is all too much.”

The tension between Rinka and Risuzu was already twisting my stomach, and Nonoa-chan’s arrival stirred up more chaos. At least today ended safely.

Dimming the room’s lights, I slipped into bed and closed my eyes. What was I supposed to do starting tomorrow? If only Nonoa-chan could mend things between Rinka and Risuzu… They didn’t hate each other—just clashed over beliefs, feeling awkward about it.

Lost in thought, I started to doze off when a click of the door reached my ears. Groggily sitting up, I rubbed my eyes. “Who’s there?”

“Kazuto-oniichan…”

“Nonoa-chan? What’s wrong?”

I turned on the dimmer light. Nonoa-chan, in cute polka-dot pajamas, clutched a pink pillow, her expression shy and guilty, her gaze dropping to the floor.

“Um, I wanna sleep with you…”

“Alright… Come on in.”

It’d be harsh to send her away now. Plus, I remembered Risuzu’s loneliness. Rejecting someone seeking comfort wasn’t right.

Confirming Nonoa-chan had slipped in beside me, I turned off the light, plunging the room into darkness.

“Kazuto-oniichan… Sorry for being selfish…”

“It’s totally fine, don’t worry.”

“Mmm…”

Her timid voice showed she was mindful of her actions. “Um, Kazuto-oniichan?”

“What’s up? You can say anything.”

“Pat my head~”

“Of course, no problem.”

What an adorable request. In the dark, I sat up and gently patted her head. She stayed silent, focused on my touch. Time passed, and sleepiness crept back. Soft breathing came from beside me—Nonoa-chan had fallen asleep.

Closing my eyes to drift off, another click sounded. Someone else? I grabbed the light remote.

Turning it on, I saw Rinka standing there, her face blank, long hair draped down, framed by the ceiling like a horror movie scene.

“Uh… Rinka-san?”

“I… want to sleep with Kazuto too… I want to spend the night feeling my husband’s warmth.”

“W-Well, uh… sorry.”

“Nonoa’s allowed, but not me?” Her flat tone and blank face felt intensely judgmental.

“No, it’s just, the situation’s different…”

“What’s different?”

“You’re… really attractive… so it’d lead to all sorts of trouble.”

“Attractive—! W-What kind of trouble?”

“Like… a guy’s… instincts?”

“—!” Rinka’s cheeks flushed as she understood, her eyes darting, mouth moving wordlessly. Then, in a trembling voice, “I-If you really insist… I don’t mind. It might be early, but… we’re husband and wife…”

“Th-That’s… uh…”

“I don’t mind” meant that kind of thing. My face burned—could you fry an egg on my cheeks?

“Kazuto… Can I sleep with you?”

“G-Go ahead…”

The tense, bittersweet mood was impossible to refuse. If Nonoa-chan weren’t here, my brain flickered with dangerous thoughts. No, no! There’s an order to dating!

“Kazuto? Why’s your face so red?”

“N-Nothing… at all!”

“I see… Then turn off the light.”

“Y-Yes…”

Rinka climbed into bed quietly to avoid waking Nonoa-chan. I turned off the light. Three of us in a single bed—cramped. I was pressed against the wall, and Rinka might fall off if she rolled over. Sandwiched between us, Nonoa-chan slept soundly, oblivious. Cute.

“Hey, Kazuto,” Rinka whispered.

“What?”

“This feels so much like a married couple, doesn’t it?”

“Uh, yeah…?”

“The two of us, husband and wife, sleeping with our child… It’s exactly that, right?”

Rinka spoke happily, savoring the moment. She’d mentioned a hundred baby names, so she must dream of a family with kids, even as a cool-type idol.

“It’s calming, healing my heart. I can feel all my fatigue slipping away…”

Her deep, relaxed breathing showed she was at ease. If I wanted to support Rinka, maybe sleeping together was better. My rationality had kept me at a distance until now. I’d need steel mental strength to handle this…

Another click sounded. No need to turn on the light.

“Oi, Risuzu.”

“…It’s not necessarily me.”

“You said ‘me,’ so you’ve confessed. Plus, Rinka and Nonoa-chan are here.”

“…I’m… the odd one out…? Sniff… It’s cold.”

“Risuzu? Come over here,” Rinka said.

“…Rinka-san?”

In the pitch-black room, I heard the door close and footsteps approach.

“…This loneliness is like watching my merch get thrown away. No, it’s so sad I could cry.”

That was genuinely sad. “…I hate being alone. It’s cold… I want in the bed too…”

“But it’s full…”

Risuzu’s loneliness was real. I started to offer to get out—

“…It’s fine, there’s the bottom.”

“The bottom? Under the bed?”

“…Yeah. This bed has space underneath.”

Before I could respond, I heard rustling—she crawled under! A member of a popular idol group!

“Risuzu, I’ll get out, so come up here.”

“…No. I like dark, cramped places…”

“Didn’t you say you hate being alone?”

“…I just hate being isolated in a group… If I can feel people nearby, I like dark, cramped places.”

What a quirky fixation… But I kinda got it.

“…Plus, I can feel Nonoa-chan’s presence above me here… Bliss…”

What a pervert. I couldn’t relate anymore.

“Risuzu, you’re seriously sleeping there?”

“…Yeah.”

“Fine… Then I’ll sleep under the bed too.”

“…Huh?”

Rinka, sounding serious, got out of bed and crawled under. A nationally beloved cool-type idol under my bed.

“…R-Rinka-san…! This isn’t a place for someone like you…!” Risuzu protested.

“The place doesn’t matter. What matters is who you sleep with,” Rinka said firmly.

“…A-As expected of Rinka-san…! Valuing the essence is so wonderful.”

As expected? I thought the sleeping place was super important.

“We’ve been awkward lately, haven’t we? Sorry, it’s because I’ve been pushing my views,” Rinka said.

“…N-No, it’s not… Everyone has their own beliefs. But I’ve been denying yours… Still, I just…”

“Let’s not think and cherish this moment.”

“…Rinka-san?”

“We might be awkward again tomorrow. But for now… just for now, let’s go back to being the close friends we were. …Is that okay?”

A truce. Risuzu’s reply was, “…It’s not not okay…”

“Good,” Rinka said, her relief clear.

Then, a “…Hau!”—Risuzu’s yelp came from under the bed.

“…R-Rinka-san… If you hug me so tight…!”

“I have to, or I’m in danger. So let me.”

“…F-Forever… Please…!”

Rinka was hugging Risuzu, probably to restrain her wild sleeping habits. They’d known each other for years, likely had sleepovers, and understood each other’s quirks. Rinka’s endless kindness to Risuzu shone through, despite her anger when her beliefs were denied. No wonder Risuzu was so attached.

Rinka had so many sides—I was falling for her more and more.

But this situation… Two popular idols sleeping under my bed. Incomprehensible.

“H-Hey… Risuzu… Stop, where are you touching—ahn!” Rinka’s voice rang out.

Seriously, what were they doing?

☆

Morning came, sunlight slipping through the curtain gap, illuminating dancing dust particles. I sat up, stretching toward the ceiling to shake off sleep. Beside me, Nonoa-chan’s peaceful sleeping face mumbled softly. Cute.

THUD! A bang came from under the bed.

—Oh, right.

“Ugh… Ow… That hurts,” Rinka groaned.

“Rinka?”

“I hit my head hard… Ugh…”

Her voice in pain was a first—worrying but oddly cute, like a clumsy girl. Rustling followed as the long-haired beauty crawled out from under the bed. Surreal. My girlfriend, a popular idol, emerging from under my bed. Probably a sight no one else had seen.

Risuzu woke too, crawling out with a drag. “…Slept great… Best wake-up ever.”

“Impressive, Risuzu… My body aches.”

“…I’m amazing? Byuhyuhyuhyu.”

What kind of laugh was that?

☆

After getting ready, Rinka and Risuzu left together for idol work. Despite their awkwardness, they handled work professionally. Was it their pro mindset, or did the night under the bed help? After seeing them off, I woke Nonoa-chan for breakfast, then we worked on her summer homework. By noon, we finished lunch.

“Kazuto-oniichan, let’s play!” Nonoa-chan tugged my arm eagerly.

“Sure. What do you wanna play?”

“Um, I wanna play an online game!”

“Alright! Let’s do it!”

Matching her energy, I raced her upstairs to my room. I started the PC and launched Black Plains, seating Nonoa-chan, who grinned excitedly.

“Nonoa-chan, do you remember your ID and password?”

“What’re those…?”

“Figured… Wait, hold on.”

I checked my phone—Rinka had sent Nonoa-chan’s ID and password that morning, just in case. My girlfriend was so thoughtful. Logging in, we found Nonoa’s old character.

We started the game. I watched as Nonoa-chan played, her “Ei! Ei!” when fighting monsters and “Wow!” at the beautiful sky or sea pure joy. It seemed like it’d been a while since she played an online game. Even at the Mizuki house, she mostly played outside.

“Hey, Kazuto-oniichan. Can’t we go to the sea by ship?”

“You can.”

“Really? I wanna go!”

“Sorry, getting a ship is tough. Plus, pirates show up at sea…”

“Mmm… Can’t go to the sea?”

I nodded as she looked sadly at the screen. Going to the sea was fun—catching fish, fighting pirates with friends—but not easy. Nonoa roamed the vast world, reaching a dungeon in a grassland.

“Kazuto-oniichan, what’s this?”

“A dungeon. It’s tough alone… You explore with friends.”

“Oh… You can’t do much alone, huh?”

Black Plains was enjoyable solo, but some content was better with friends. Overcoming challenges together deepened bonds. I’d had unforgettable encounters myself.

“Oh, there’s something I really want you to try, Nonoa-chan! It’s super fun.”

“I wanna do it!”

I guided her to the mining field. “Okay, Nonoa-chan. Equip the pickaxe… Yeah, click there to mine.”

“…”

“Fun, right?”

“…Um, yeah.”

Her reaction was lukewarm, her face unsmiling, just frowning and clicking. She’d just started—she needed time to get the joy of mining!

One hour later.

“How’s it going, Nonoa-chan? Fun, right?”

“…”

“Nonoa-chan?”

“Uh, um, Kazuto-oniichan. I wanna do something else—”

“Oh, look! A dragon stone! It’s super rare. Amazing, Nonoa-chan!”

“Uh, yeah…”

Two hours later.

“Man, mining never gets old. Even watching is fun. Right, Nonoa-chan?”

“Hic… Sniff… Sob…”

“Huh!? Nonoa-chan!?”

Her face crumpled, biting her lip, trying not to cry. Her reaction sent a chill through me. Panicking, she spoke like a tortured prisoner.

“K-Kazuto-oniichan… Sniff… I won’t be selfish anymore… Please forgive me… No more clanging…!”

Today, I understood. Just because I enjoyed something didn’t mean others would. I knew it in theory but learned it soul-deep. Mining didn’t suit an angel. It was for mere humans.

☆

By evening, Risuzu and Rinka returned, still subtly avoiding each other awkwardly. Last night’s coziness under the bed hadn’t lasted. As dinner neared, Nonoa-chan and I sat on the living room sofa, watching Star☆Mines videos on my phone. In the kitchen, Rinka, hair in a ponytail, wore an apron and cooked. Risuzu was likely holed up in her room.

“Rinka-oneechan’s amazing!” Nonoa-chan said.

“Yup.”

“Nana-oneechan’s cute too!”

Her eyes sparkled, pure and innocent. She might seriously aim to be an idol.

“…N-Nonoa-chan… Who’s your favorite?” Risuzu asked, peeking over the sofa.

“Whoa, Risuzu… You were there?”

Don’t sneak up like an assassin…

“Um, everyone’s my favorite~”

“…Too sweet, Nonoa-chan… As an adult, you’ll face moments where you must choose what’s most important… Practice now by picking one.”

“Mmm…”

“Don’t put Nonoa-chan on the spot…”

Nonoa-chan pursed her lips, staring at the screen, but her answer stayed the same. “Everyone’s cute, and everyone’s my favorite~”

“…It’s war,” Risuzu declared.

“Huh?”

“…I know I can’t beat Rinka-san and the others… But I want to be Nonoa-chan’s number one…!”

Burning with passion, Risuzu stormed out. Her footsteps echoed from the stairs. What was she planning? Half-expecting, half-dreading, I waited. Less than three minutes later, she returned in a silver mask and large black cloak—full-on chuunibyou.

“Wow! Risuzu-oneechan’s cool!” Nonoa-chan clapped.

“…Heh heh, I win,” Risuzu grinned proudly.

What was with these two? They were definitely close.

“Hey, Risuzu, you’re really—”

“…Not chuunibyou.”

“But that’s—”

“…Not chuunibyou.”

“…”

“…Not chuunibyou. This is for Nonoa-chan.”

“Really…?”

She was too comfortable in that outfit. “Hey, Risuzu-oneechan! Say something~”

“…Heh, for the tiny angel who soothes my jaded heart…!” Risuzu flared her cloak dramatically, her childish voice replaced by a strong, clear one. “—I have no creator. For I am a being born of darkness, fated to eternal solitude…!”

“Wow! I don’t get it, but it’s cool!”

She literally said she didn’t get it. I mentally quipped, but Risuzu seemed satisfied with Nonoa-chan’s joy, her heavy breathing audible despite the mask.

“That line came out pretty smoothly. You think about this stuff all the time, don’t you?”

“…I don’t. I just came up with it.”

“Coming up with it that fast means you think about it, right?”

“…Onii’s being mean…”

Sulking, Risuzu yanked off her mask and tossed it at me, hitting my head with a soft thud. Light plastic—no pain.

“Dinner’s ready. Come over here,” Rinka called gently, entering the living room.

“…Domestic Rinka-san… I love it,” Risuzu swooned, seeing Rinka in a ponytail and apron.

She loved her so much, yet one belief kept things awkward. But maybe now—

“Rinka-oneechan’s like a mom!” Nonoa-chan said.

“A mom… Well, given my role, that’s not far off. After all, I’m Kazuto’s wife.”

“…!” Risuzu grimaced. Still no good…

☆

A brilliantly clear sky burned above, the summer sun intent on roasting us. In an online-game dungeon, it’d probably drain HP over time. But that heat made certain activities more enjoyable—the pool.

“Take that, Rin-chan!” Nana shouted.

“Hey, Nana! Stop—time for payback!”

“Eek! Cold!”

“Kazuto-oniichan, pools feel so nice~” Nonoa-chan said.

“Yup…”

The four of us were at a massive pool complex in Tokyo, with various pools and a dining building. My first time at a pool with friends, the crowd drained my energy. Floating in a ring in the flowing pool, I gazed at the bright blue sky, the least crowded spot allowing me to relax.

[T/N: The flowing pool refers to a lazy river-style pool common in Japanese water parks.]

 

 

The cool water felt refreshing against my skin.

Beside me, Nonoa-chan bobbed in her float ring, spinning, splashing, and brimming with energy. Her one-piece school swimsuit only amplified her lively, youthful charm.

“Hey, Rin-chan! That’s too much! Water’s getting in my nose…!”

“You started it, Nana. I’m not holding back.”

“No way…! Help, Kazu-kun!”

Riding the pool’s gentle current, the two were locked in a playful splash war. I watched them, amused yet slightly exasperated, my gaze drifting from the bright sky to their antics. Their wet hair glistened under the sun, droplets trailing from the tips down their necks and chests. Their exposed upper bodies, tanned from swim classes, sparkled in the sunlight.

“Ugh, Rin-chan! My swimsuit’s slipping off!”

She clutched her chest in mock outrage.

“Oh, just the bottoms, right? Your chest was never covered.”

“Haha, right!”

That’s it—I’d had enough.

“Cut it out, you two!”

“Huh—?”

Tachibana and Saito froze, turning to me with puzzled expressions. That’s right—I wasn’t here with Rinka and Nana. I was stuck with these two.

“What’s that, huh!? Mocking Rinka and Nana!?”

“Tch, what’s got you so mad, Ayanokoji? Don’t you get our kindness?”

“Huh?”

“Exactly, Ayanokoji-kun. We were doing this for you.”

They shook their heads, as if I’d spurned their goodwill. What were they even talking about? Tachibana was mimicking Rinka, and Saito was playing Nana. Their lines were surprisingly spot-on, almost convincing—except for that awful “slipping swimsuit” bit. In text alone, most people would’ve fallen for it.

“Deep down, you want to hit the pool with them, right, Ayanokoji?”

“W-Well…”

“But! Your position doesn’t allow it!”

“So we stepped up! Though we only stripped off our shirts!”

“Shut up! It’s not even clever!”

How did Saito manage that smug look? It was baffling.

“Chill, Ayanokoji-kun. Didn’t you feel, even for a second, like you were hanging out with them?”

“Yeah, felt like I was in hell…”

It was pure mischief, plain and simple. But, exasperated as I was, I couldn’t deny I was having fun. This kind of nonsense only worked because we were close. I was glad I’d come to the pool with them. We’d planned it before summer break, so I brought Nonoa-chan along. Honestly, I’d have loved for Rinka, Nana, and Risuzu to be here too, but their schedules rarely lined up. Even if they did, it’d cause a scene—hanging out with popular idols was no small feat.

“Look, look~!”

Nonoa-chan’s voice pulled my attention. She popped out from the hole of her float ring like a whack-a-mole, innocent and adorable. Her charm radiated, drawing warm smiles from a young couple drifting nearby. Even Tachibana and Saito weren’t immune.

“Too cute, Nonoa-chan! An angel!”

“My calculations say Nonoa-chan’s cuteness probability is—Nope, can’t calculate it!”

It was a bit creepy, but I got the sentiment. I reacted the same way.

“Damn! I forgot our real goal!”

“Real goal?”

“Yeah! Ogling cute girls!”

Tachibana’s eyes turned bloodshot as he scanned the crowd—a total creep. He could get arrested any day now.

“Yo, Saito, check her out! Huge chest!”

“What the…! My bare eyes… It’s all blurry!!”

They were my friends, but honestly, they were idiots. Still, beneath their blatant lust, they were good guys.

“Tch. Just looking’s not enough! Wish some girls would hit on us!”

“My calculations say there’s a 96% chance we’ll get picked up. Just wait.”

“That’s the chance we won’t get picked up…”

No way our un-cool trio would get hit on. If someone tried, it’d be a scam—or worse.

“Hey, Kazuto-oniichan, what’re you talking about?”

“Don’t worry, Nonoa-chan. They’ve got a little sickness.”

“Do they need a hospital…?”

“Thing is, no hospital can cure it.”

“Mmm… Poor them…”

Nonoa-chan gazed at the excited Tachibana and Saito with pity. Two high school boys pitied by a little girl. These were my only friends…

“Alright! We’re gonna stroll around looking bored, waiting for a pickup!”

“Don’t bother. You’ll just waste time.”

“You don’t know till you try!”

“Then why not hit on someone yourself?”

“Idiot! If I had that courage, I wouldn’t be struggling! You moron!”

“…Why am I getting yelled at?”

Exchanging a firm nod, Tachibana and Saito climbed out of the pool and sauntered off. Nonoa-chan tilted her head, puzzled.

“Where’re they going?”

“To a battlefield.”

“Battlefield?”

“Don’t stop us, angel,” Tachibana said with a cheesy grin. Most would cringe, but not Nonoa-chan. With genuine concern, she replied, “Um… Don’t get hurt, okay?”

“—!”

Tachibana clutched his chest, dropping to one knee. “Ugh, too pure…! Maybe I should die to purify my heart…!”

“It’s fine, Tachibana-kun! Your heart’ll stay dirty even if you die!”

With that absurd exchange, they shuffled off. No way they were getting picked up…

☆

Alone with Nonoa-chan, we drifted lazily in the flowing pool. Growing bored, she piped up, “I wanna go to that pool!”

No reason to refuse, so we climbed out and headed to the wave pool she’d pointed at.

“Wow, cute!”

“So tiny and cute~ Like an angel.”

“Mmm?”

Two college-age women, undeniably pretty, approached Nonoa-chan, crouching to her level.

“What’s your name?”

“Nonoa!”

“Nonoa-chan, huh? Such a cute name~”

One gently patted Nonoa-chan’s head as she answered with boundless energy. Wow, Nonoa-chan was getting hit on… or something like that. The women kept cooing over her cuteness, and Nonoa-chan, used to the attention, beamed without a hint of shyness. She probably got this a lot—even at the park, an old lady had chatted her up.

Meanwhile, I was nervous. These were young women, close to my age.

“Hey, what’s your name?”

“Huh?”

“You, you.”

Caught off guard, I panicked, my voice shrinking. “Uh, Kazuto…”

“Got it, Kazuto, huh? You’re cool too. Jealous of such a good-looking sibling pair~”

Flattery? They seemed genuine, but Risuzu once said my face made women scream in terror. I was doomed. Also, they assumed we were siblings. I was happy enough not to correct them.

“Got a girlfriend?”

“N-No, I don’t.”

I lied instinctively, my reflex to keep my relationship with a popular idol secret kicking in.

“If it’s cool, wanna hang out, the four of us?”

“Huh—?”

One suggested with a shy smile. Was this a pickup using Nonoa-chan as bait—or a scam? If I went along, a buff delinquent might show up.

…Someone… Help.

“Yo, Ayanokoji! No luck after all! Let’s hit the other pool! Nonoa-chan too, of course!”

“My calculations say the women here have no taste in men! No need to calculate!”

The women glanced at Tachibana and Saito approaching, shouting, and asked with slight nervous laughs, “Those guys your friends?” I nodded quickly, “Yes.”

They whispered to each other, then nodded. “Sorry, Kazuto-kun, remembered something we gotta do.”

“Oh, okay.”

“So… yeah.”

With a hint of haste, they hurried off.

“Huh? What’s up? Who were those pretty ladies?”

“…You saved me. Thanks.”

“Huh?”

Tachibana and Saito tilted their heads, confused, Nonoa-chan mirroring them. Friends were invaluable. If they hadn’t returned, I might’ve been cornered by some scary delinquent. Pools were terrifying places. Crowded real-world spots were dangerous—I’d learned that today.

☆

Evening settled in. Back from the pool, Nonoa-chan and I spent quiet time in the living room. Rinka and Risuzu still weren’t back—probably not until night. I sat on the sofa, glancing at Nonoa-chan, who was diligently scribbling in a notebook at the table. A picture diary, classic elementary school summer homework. Exhausted from the pool, her head bobbed, eyes rubbing repeatedly. She’d fall asleep soon.

“Yawn… Kazuto-oniichan… Today was fun…”

“Yeah, it was.”

“Playing with everyone… is fun… So, Risuzu-oneechan, Rinka-oneechan, Kazuto-oniichan, and me… I wanna play with everyone…”

“…”

“You know, Risuzu-oneechan and Rinka-oneechan are close but kinda awkward…”

Despite her carefree nature, Nonoa-chan had noticed. And her wish to play with everyone was so pure. That was normal. Somewhere along the way, I’d gotten fixated on getting Risuzu to accept online games, thinking how to make her see their charm to align with Rinka’s views. No wonder I couldn’t devise a good plan.

No, I didn’t need a plan. Just wanting to play together was enough. Rinka had said it too—I was fine being normal. I finally understood what she meant. Playing together happily could lead Risuzu to discover online games’ appeal and become more open to Rinka’s perspective. That was the best outcome.

The challenge was inviting Risuzu. Ideally, all four of us would play, but I couldn’t force her to join Rinka while things were awkward. I needed to create a flow where Risuzu wanted to play. Once we started the online game, we’d be set. A little strategy was necessary.

“I’m not great at this stuff… Hmm.”

Clever if you’re kind, sneaky if you’re not. That’s the approach I needed.

“…Snooze… Snooze…”

“Nonoa-chan? Fell asleep?”

Slumped over the table, Nonoa-chan breathed softly in sleep. Smiling warmly, I peeked at her diary. A cute but clumsy child’s drawing, charming yet shocking. It depicted Saito shyly covering his chest and Tachibana with a wicked grin—why that scene of all things? The teacher who saw this was in for a rough time.