Category: I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 111-112

    Final: Always Together

    …I’m so restless.

    I lay in bed in my room, hugging the penguins, staring blankly at the ceiling.

    The reason for my restlessness is simple—

    “Mashiro, thanks for letting me use the bath.”

    The door opened, and Riri, fresh from the bath, entered the room.

    “Ah, you’re welcome.”

    I jumped out of bed.

    We came straight to my house from the festival.

    I took a bath first, and then Riri used it after me.

    “Are the pajamas okay? Do they fit?”

    “Yeah, they’re perfect.”

    Naturally, I lent Riri my pajamas since she didn’t have any clothes here.

    The lavender short-sleeved top and shorts looked glamorous on her.

    “That’s surprising, Mashiro. You wear this kind of thing?”

    “No, I’ve never worn them…”

    They’re probably Amatsuki Suzuna’s, I wouldn’t have the courage to wear them.

    I’m wearing navy blue long-sleeved pajamas and long pants.

    “Eh, that’s a waste. They’re cute.”

    “I can’t… show that much skin.”

    “Even in pajamas?”

    “It’s… drafty, and I’m not used to it.”

    Creak

    The bed creaked.

    Riri sat down next to me.

    “What do you mean, making me wear these pajamas that you’re too embarrassed to wear yourself?”

    Riri covered her mouth with her hand, grinning mischievously.

    I can pretty much guess what she wants me to say.

    “What do you think it means?”

    But I didn’t want to fall for her trap, so I returned the question.

    “You’re turned on, aren’t you?”

    Riri said playfully, trying to keep it light.

    Her ability to handle any situation, keeping the conversation going, is typical of her excellent communication skills.

    But her words hit a nerve.

    Riri’s flushed skin looked alluring.

    And that body was exposed in my space.

    Next to me on the bed, wearing my pajamas, with an unguarded smile.

    It’s impossible for me not to feel something.

    “What if I said yes?”

    Unlike Riri, I can’t speak playfully.

    I’m an extreme person: I hate it if I hate it, and I like it if I like it.

    So I say what I think.

    My straightforward words made Riri’s smile falter.

    “Well… what do you mean, ‘what if’…? That puts me in a difficult position.”

    Even though I’m the only one here, Riri-chan scratched her cheek and looked away.

    “What do you want me to do?”

    “Y-You’re making me say it…? There’s such a thing as… reading the room, going with the flow…?”

    I’m not good at grasping vague things like “the mood” or “the flow.”

    I need more… clarity.

    “You want me to hold you, don’t you?”

    “…Y-Yeah. You’re being very direct.”

    “Riri, you made me say it when it was my turn.”

    “Ah… that’s true, but… it’s so embarrassing to be on the receiving end…”

    She’s the one who told me that I have to verbalize things.

    And now she’s acting like I shouldn’t.

    Reading the room is truly difficult.

    “Do you not want me to? I won’t if you don’t.”

    “…Of course I want you to.”

    I put the penguins I was holding onto the floor.

    I don’t need a barrier between us right now. I want them to… look away for a bit.

    “Really?”

    “…Please.”

    I gently touched Riri’s shoulder.

    Her skin was warm, fresh from the bath.

    Or maybe it wasn’t just because of the bath.

    I kissed her, a deep kiss.

    Our tongues intertwined as we sought each other, devouring each other’s mouths.

    When our lips parted, Riri’s eyes were moist and dreamy.

    Her expression was so alluring that I felt myself being consumed by her.

    I gently pushed her shoulders and laid her down on the bed.

    Her smooth hair spread across the bed, and a sweet fragrance wafted through the air.

    The feeling of dominance, looking down at Riri-chan silently, heightened my excitement.

    “I’m going to undress you.”

    I reached for the buttons of her pajamas.

    “…The lights?”

    “I won’t be able to see if I turn them off.”

    “No, it’s… too bright. Turn them off.”

    I’m already inexperienced, and I won’t be able to do this properly if I can’t even see.

    “Rejected.”

    “…Seriously?”

    I undressed Riri without hesitation.

    Riri, completely naked, was beautiful.

    “Hey, you’re staring too much.”

    “You did the same to me.”

    “But the lights weren’t this bright.”

    Riri-chan’s blushing, embarrassed expression was cute.

    I touched her breast.

    I could feel her arousal from the way her body twitched slightly.

    Her breasts were too large for my hands.

    I touched her as gently as possible.

    Her breathing gradually quickened.

    “…How is it?”

    “Don’t… stare at me… It’s too much…”

    “I have to look.”

    “You’re doing this on purpose! You know what you’re doing!”

    Apparently, it’s not bad.

    After a while, Riri’s legs closed tightly.

    Sensing that, I moved down from her chest to between her legs.

    “Eh, ah, wait…”

    I touched her Secret Place; she was wet.

    I ran my tongue along her skin.

    “…Haa…”

    Her breathing intensified, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

    Her body, fresh from the bath, was becoming increasingly sweaty.

    I touched her with my lips and tongue.

    As if to drink every drop of her moisture.

    “Mashiro, that’s… dangerous…”

    Riri-chan’s hand touched my head, her legs closed tightly around my face.

    But I knew that it wasn’t rejection, but pleasure.

    “Seriously…”

    “It’s fine.”

    “—!”

    As if triggered by my words, Riri-chan’s body convulsed.

    Her muscles tensed, and her back arched on the bed.

    Listening to her moans, I waited for her body to relax.

    ◇◇◇

    “How was it?”

    I looked down at Riri-chan’s face, her breathing ragged, her body sprawled on the bed.

    Riri-chan’s eyes met mine, and I noticed that her gaze was filled with a different emotion than before.

    “…Mashiro, you seem… unfazed.”

    “Well, I managed.”

    “Want to hear my opinion?”

    “I do.”

    I waited, wanting to see her embarrassed expression, and Riri-chan grabbed my arms.

    “Eh?”

    She flipped me over, and now I was lying on the bed, and she was straddling me.

    “Okay, I’ll tell you.”

    “Um…”

    I suddenly had a bad feeling.

    “With my body.”

    “I wasn’t… thinking about that today—”

    Ignoring my hesitation, Riri-chan’s hand reached for the buttons of my pajamas.

    “No questions asked.”

    Now it was my turn to be undressed.

    ◇◇◇

    How long did it last?

    Before I knew it, we were holding each other.

    My body was exhausted, but my mind was still clear.

    I felt a blissful sense of happiness, our bodies warming each other.

    “Hey, Mashiro.”

    “What is it, Riri?”

    We gazed into each other’s eyes and called each other’s names.

    “Mashiro, you were originally… from outside the game world, right?”

    Riri suddenly brought up that topic.

    “…If you believe me, then yes.”

    “Whether I believe it or not is a different matter.”

    But it still seems to be an ambiguous boundary for her.

    “Anyway, the protagonist is Shindo, right?”

    “Yes, and we’re the heroines.”

    “And you were trying to prevent Shindo and us, the heroines, from falling for each other, right?”

    “Well, roughly speaking, yes.”

    “I was thinking… isn’t that strange?”

    “…What is?”

    “Shindo is the protagonist, but he didn’t end up with anyone. And we, the heroines, are dating each other. Isn’t that weird?”

    That’s true.

    But I thought it was a bug caused by my irregular existence, Yukitsuki Mashiro.

    “So you’re saying you want to deny that this is a dating sim world?”

    I can’t argue with that.

    “No, that’s not what I mean. I think the premise is wrong.”

    “Wrong?”

    “Yeah, in games… not just the characters, but the players are also the protagonists, aren’t they?”

    Riri looked directly at me.

    “So you, Mashiro, are the protagonist who was playing the game. It’s only natural that I fell for you.”

    “…I see.”

    That might be a valid interpretation.

    A hypothesis.

    “So, Mashiro, you chose me, the heroine, of your own free will.”

    “That’s… true.”

    We embraced, our foreheads touching gently.

    The distance between us was close to zero.

    “Then love me until the very end. My protagonist.”

    The answer to that question is obvious.

    “I will. My heroine.”

    It’s a ridiculous story, whether it’s true or not.

    But no matter what our relationship is, I think we would have ended up together in the end.

    I feel that strongly, our happiness intertwined.


    Side Story 

    “Hey, Mashiro, um… don’t you ever change your… loungewear?”

    “…Eh?”

    Riri suddenly asked that, and I was taken aback.

    Since we started dating, we’ve been spending a lot of time at each other’s houses.

    We see each other almost every day, so it’s tiring to always go out, and we naturally settled into this routine.

    Today, we were at my place. I was reading manga on the bed, and Riri was lying on her stomach on the carpet, reading a magazine.

    I was a bit bewildered by her sudden question about my clothes.

    “There’s no problem with this, is there?”

    “There’s no problem… but a black sweatsuit? Really? As a girl?”

    Yes, I wear a sweatsuit at home.

    She was a little surprised when I wore this to go out with her before.

    Since then, I’ve only been wearing it at home.

    “No, it’s fine! You’re free to wear whatever you want at home. I know that. But, Mashiro, even though this is your room, I’m also here, right? Do you understand what that means?”

    “…I have a guest.”

    “You have your girlfriend over!”

    She corrected me emphatically.

    Well, I know that, but there are some words that are embarrassing to say out loud.

    “In other words, it’s a date! This is a date! A home date is still a proper date!”

    She repeated the word “date” in that short sentence.

    I don’t want her to say that; it makes me self-conscious.

    “That’s my point! What’s with the black sweatsuit on a date? No, it’s fine! It’s totally fine to wear it sometimes! But every single time, every single time I come to your house… every single time!… you’re wearing that! I can’t help but have some thoughts about it, can I?!”

    Riri, seemingly having reached her limit, stood up.

    She was apparently very dissatisfied with my outfit.

    Riri always changes her clothes whenever we go out.

    Today, she was wearing a college logo (I think) sweatshirt tucked into a long denim skirt.

    …Wait, a sweatshirt?

    “You’re wearing a sweatshirt too, Riri.”

    So it’s the same as me?

    “That’s different! I’m not saying sweatshirts are bad, it’s about how you wear them!”

    …I don’t understand.

    Why is it different when it’s the same sweatshirt?

    I think she’s the one saying something strange, but… if that’s what she says, then that’s how it is.

    “Well… I’m not… fashionable like you, Riri.”

    “There’s a limit! Seriously! And… this… it’s pilling!”

    Riri’s eyes widened in disbelief.

    “It’s proof that it’s become a part of me.”

    This sweatsuit is a perfect match for my body after wearing it so much.

    See, it stretches comfortably with my movements.

    No stress.

    “That’s unacceptable! It’s not okay for a girl to wear a pilling sweatsuit!”

    “I’m a human before I’m a girl.”

    “That sounds deep, but it’s not relevant right now. Or rather, we’re girls before we’re humans.”

    That’s the first time I’ve heard that.

    Apparently, gender comes before species for us.

    …Is that a philosophical statement?

    “No, seriously, think about it. I’m not trying to force my fashion sense on you. I just want the cute Mashiro to become even cuter.”

    “…Um…”

    Riri can say these things with a straight face.

    She’s always been like this, but it feels like it’s escalated since we started dating.

    I don’t dislike it, but I don’t know how to react.

    “Think about it the other way around. What if I was always wearing a black sweatsuit every time you came to my house?”

    “…”

    I imagined it.

    Riri, covered from head to toe in a black sweatsuit.

    But I could also picture her with perfect hair, makeup, and nails, and even the sweatsuit would be stylishly coordinated with carefully chosen innerwear and accessories.

    Even the worn-out look would probably become fashionable in her hands.

    “Well, a beautiful person looks beautiful no matter what.”

    “…H-Hey…”

    The atmosphere became awkward.

    We were complimenting each other, calling each other cute and beautiful, and blushing.

    We’re like a lovesick couple…

    “I-I’m happy you think so, but that’s a separate issue from your outfit, Mashiro.”

    “Well, I wasn’t trying to change the subject…”

    “Anyway, don’t you have any… loungewear you want to wear?”

    “If I did, I wouldn’t be wearing the same thing every time…”

    I want Riri to understand the fundamental difference.

    “So you’re saying I can choose everything for you? But you’ll complain, won’t you?”

    “I won’t.”

    “Eh, you won’t?”

    “No, I’ll wear whatever you choose, Riri.”

    “…Seriously?”

    I’m not lying.

    “I told you before, didn’t I? If you say it suits me, Riri, I’ll like it.”

    “Y-You did, but… I didn’t think I could actually… choose your clothes…”

    “It’s fine. You’re the only one who sees me anyway, Riri. As long as you like how I look, that’s all that matters.”

    I don’t feel the need to be cute or fashionable.

    But if that’s what Riri wants, I’ll do it for her.

    If it makes her happy, that alone is enough for me.

    “Th-That… response… is the most dangerous…”

    Riri, for some reason, raised her voice and then smiled, her hands on her cheeks.

    I don’t understand why she seems so satisfied when I haven’t even changed yet.

    <The End>

     

     

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 109-110

    109 Summer Break Plans

    Summer break, the long-awaited holiday for all students.

    Every student looks forward to this extended break; no one dreads it.

    For me, it’s usually just a nice break from the mental anguish of being alone at school.

    But this summer break is special for me because—

    “Hey, Mashiro, this kind of summer break is unacceptable.”

    “…”

    Apparently, summer break isn’t so special for the girl who made it special for me.

    That’s disappointing.

    “Hey, I’m talking to you, don’t ignore me.”

    “…Well, I don’t really understand what you’re saying.”

    Riri says this summer break, which I find special, is unacceptable.

    I can’t immediately understand such a contrasting viewpoint.

    “You understand, don’t you? Staying at home every single day is a bit much.”

    “…It’s only been a week.”

    “A whole week! A whole week of just going back and forth between our houses! What kind of summer break is that?!”

    Riri started complaining loudly.

    I could only sigh at her outburst.

    “Even so, Riri, you’re going to summer cram school, so you’re mostly at the tutoring center.”

    She, seriously considering university entrance exams, finally started going to cram school, realizing she was falling behind.

    Because of that, she’s only free in the mornings or evenings, so we haven’t been able to spend much time together.

    We might have actually spent more time together at school.

    “That’s why I invited you to come with me! But you refused!”

    “…Well, I don’t need it.”

    My grades are currently better than Riri’s.

    Since I’m planning to apply to the same university as her, I don’t need to make any extra effort if I can maintain my current level.

    So I’m spending my days waiting for her to come home.

    “And even though you’re not coming with me, you order me to send you a picture every day before I leave!”

    “Well, that’s only natural.”

    “Why is it natural?!”

    Even though I’ve matured a bit, Riri is still an attractive girl.

    I don’t know when or who might try to hit on her.

    So I asked her to refrain from wearing revealing clothes and to send me a picture before leaving the house, just to confirm. It’s become a rule for our summer break.

    The obedient Riri has been diligently following it.

    “I’m worried about you, Riri.”

    “W-Well, that’s hard to argue with… but wearing denim pants in this heat is torture!”

    Riri’s casual clothes are incredibly glamorous, unlike her school uniform.

    If she wears revealing clothes on top of that, everyone will be staring at her instead of paying attention in class.

    I can’t allow that.

    “It’s fine, it suits you, you have a nice figure.”

    “D-Don’t try to trick me with that…”

    She’s acting flustered, even as she says that.

    “Come on, you’ve been working so hard. You should rest after studying.”

    Today, we were at my house, and it was evening.

    I was lying on the bed, and Riri was reviewing her studies at the low table.

    I don’t think it’s good to burden her any further.

    “I have free time in the afternoon too! But you don’t want to go anywhere, Mashiro!”

    “…It’s hot outside.”

    It’s crazy to go outside in this scorching heat.

    “And tomorrow is a holiday, so we can go anywhere.”

    “…Mountains and beaches are out of the question.”

    “So we’re not going anywhere!”

    “I told you before, I can’t handle those cheerful places.”

    Nature is too overwhelming for a gloomy person like me.

    “Then at least let me sleep over! I don’t want to go home every night!”

    “Eh… because…”

    It’s true that we could spend a lot of time together if we slept over.

    But that would naturally lead to… that

    I hugged the penguins, creating a barrier between Riri and me.

    “Hey, don’t try to act cute.”

    “That’s not what I’m doing, I’m protecting myself.”

    “That’s what I mean.”

    “…?”

    Anyway, I don’t think it’s time yet.

    I think there should be a more… definite time and place.

    I don’t think it’s good to do it casually.

    “Okay, then how about a festival?”

    “…Ugh.”

    She hit the nail on the head again.

    It’s not mountains or the beach, it’s a local event with a low barrier to entry.

    “Okay, it’s settled.”

    “…Fine.”

    “Don’t complain anymore. I’m holding back too, you know.”

    That’s true.

    I know this is a good compromise.

    The festival is apparently being held on the main street in the downtown area.

    “Then let’s meet at my place in an hour.”

    “Eh, today?!”

    “The festival started yesterday.”

    That’s not what I meant…

    Her energy, deciding and acting instantly, is amazing…

    “…You’re so decisive.”

    “Of course! Tomorrow is a holiday, so we have to enjoy today!”

    Riri-chan beamed and then packed up her study materials to go home and get ready.

    ◇◇◇

    “…Oh.”

    I let out a gasp when I arrived at Riri-chan’s house.

    “So? How do I look?”

    Riri was wearing a yukata.

    Her loosely curled hair was tied up, and her yukata was a deep indigo with a white floral pattern.

    I was captivated by her appearance.

    “…Beautiful.”

    “Ah, wait, that serious tone is making me blush.”

    “I’m serious.”

    “Ah… thank you.”

    Riri-chan’s eyes darted around, but her lips curved into a smile.

    She seemed happy.

    “Okay, then let’s go.”

    Just as she was about to head for the entrance, she took my hand.

    I understood her silent message: “Wait.”

    “…Hmm?”

    “I have… another yukata.”

    Now that she mentioned it, I saw a reddish-purple yukata with a white floral pattern in the corner of my eye.

    “…You like yukatas, Riri-chan?”

    “It’s a festival date, so the outfit is important. Don’t you understand?”

    “Ah, okay…”

    I was wearing a simple outfit: a khaki linen long skirt and a white T-shirt.

    “You should wear a yukata too, Mashiro.”

    “…Um, I don’t know how to put one on.”

    “It’s fine, I’ll help you. Okay?”

    Riri-chan’s gaze was serious, and she wasn’t giving me a chance to refuse.

    “…Please.”


    110 Two at the Summer Festival

    “Oh…”

    Riri helped me put on the yukata and then urged me to look in the full-length mirror.

    There stood a black-haired girl in a yukata.

    “So? How is it? Isn’t it great?”

    Riri puffed out her chest, seemingly proud of herself.

    Apparently, she wants to hear my opinion on how I look in a yukata.

    “…It feels… strange.”

    “Why? It’s cute.”

    …Well, the yukata is cute, but…

    I’m not sure if I’m cute.

    “Clothes make the man… or something like that?”

    “Ugh, that’s your usual cynical remark, isn’t it?”

    “Yep, you got it.”

    Riri’s understanding of me is improving.

    “You should deny it.”

    “It’s true.”

    “Seriously…”

    Riri cupped my cheeks in her hands.

    My face was sandwiched between her palms, and my lips felt like they were sticking out.

    “…Mmph.”

    I couldn’t speak properly.

    “I keep telling you you’re cute, Mashiro, so be more confident.”

    “Mmph… mph…”

    “Eh? What?”

    “…”

    It’s not fair; she’s the one who’s making it difficult for me to speak.

    I brushed her hands away.

    “…You’re talking about Amatsuki Suzuna.”

    So it’s not about me after all.

    “Seriously, you don’t understand, Mashiro.”

    “Understand what?”

    Riri sighed like an old man.

    “You were already Mashiro when we met, right?”

    “That’s… true, but…”

    “Then it doesn’t matter! You’ve become cuter and cuter since we met. That means you are cute, Mashiro.”

    “…I see.”

    I was at a loss for words after her passionate speech.

    At least, if that’s the truth for Riri, there’s no need for me to deny it.

    No matter what other people think, if Riri thinks I’m cute, then maybe that’s enough.

    “Riri, you’re overwhelmingly cuter. You’ve raised the bar for ‘cute’ too high.”

    So I told her my truth.

    I’m not confident in my own appearance, but I think the word “cute” applies to Riri.

    I can’t use a word that suits her so well to describe myself.

    “D-Don’t suddenly compliment me…”

    “I wasn’t complimenting you.”

    “Eh?”

    “I was just saying what I think.”

    “Ah… seriously…”

    Riri took my hand.

    Her hand was warmer than usual.

    “Come on, let’s go. It’s a waste to wear a yukata inside.”

    “…You’re right.”

    ◇◇◇

    The summer festival.

    The night was illuminated by the lights of the stalls and street lamps.

    Riri and I walked through the crowds.

    “…This is hard to walk in.”

    I couldn’t get used to the clatter of the geta.

    “Hmm? Is this your first time wearing geta?”

    These traditional Japanese footwear Riri lent me seem to be difficult for me.

    “It is. And I’ve never worn a yukata before either.”

    Compared to my clumsy gait, Riri walked gracefully and smoothly ahead of me.

    I thought she looked beautiful, turning around against the backdrop of the brightly lit stalls.

    “Ehehe, I’m taking all of Mashiro’s firsts.”

    Riri smiled happily, saying something trivial.

    “You seem used to this, Riri.”

    She can even dress someone in a yukata, so she must have been to festivals many times before.

    “But this is also my first time.”

    “…No way.”

    That’s a bit of a stretch.

    “It’s my first time at a festival with my girlfriend.”

    “…”

    That caught me off guard.

    I didn’t expect her to say that.

    “Ehehe, hey, hey, what do you want to do, Mashiro?”

    Riri put her arm around me and looked at the stalls.

    She was smiling more than usual, I don’t know what she finds so amusing.

    “Anything is fine.”

    “Ah, then how about target practice?”

    Riri pointed at a nearby stall.

    There were prizes lined up on shelves and toy guns on the counter.

    “Have you done this before?”

    “No.”

    “Then try it.”

    Riri excitedly led me to the target practice stall.

    She didn’t wait for my reply, just pulled me along.

    I reluctantly picked up a gun.

    The shelves were filled with various prizes, from game consoles and toys to snacks.

    There were prizes of all sizes, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to knock down the big ones.

    I decided to aim for a small box of candy.

    Bang

    The cork hit the candy box, but it didn’t budge.

    “…What is this?”

    “Too bad, Mashiro.”

    Riri, who had been excited until now, was laughing behind me.

    Annoyed, I hit the target a few more times.

    But the candy box remained standing.

    “Mashiro, you’re terrible at this.”

    “…Shut up.”

    This might be a simple game for Riri, who’s used to festivals.

    But it’s my first time, and I think I’m doing pretty well just hitting the target a few times.

    “If you’re that good, then you try, Riri.”

    “Eh? Really? Can I?”

    Saying that, Riri rolled up her sleeves and took aim.

    Bang

    “…Huh?”

    “Oh dear.”

    The cork missed all the targets and landed on the ground.

    Bang, bang, bang

    Same thing.

    In the end, we both got nothing.

    “Ahahaha, I can’t hit it!”

    Riri laughed at her own failure, clutching her stomach.

    “You were making fun of me just now?”

    I was doing much better than her.

    I couldn’t believe her attitude.

    “I never said I was good at it.”

    “Even so, I was better than you.”

    “It’s the same if we didn’t knock anything down.”

    “…That’s not a fair conclusion.”

    “We’re both bad at this, so we’re a good match.”

    Riri cheerfully took my hand and pulled me along.

    It’s so unreasonable and forceful, but…

    Well, it’s a festival, so it’s fine.

    “What do you want to do next?”

    “Anything you want.”

    Nothing particularly unusual happened after that.

    We drew lots, winning nothing of value.

    We bought and wore masks that we’d only use today.

    We ate candied apples that were too sweet and cotton candy that made our mouths sticky.

    A series of trivial events, nothing special.

    And yet, it felt so… magical, because Riri was by my side.

    “Mashiro, are you having fun?”

    Such a simple question.

    “Yeah, I’m having fun.”

    I’m enjoying these days with Riri so much that I can answer without hesitation.

    ◇◇◇

    “Ah, I’m tired.”

    Our legs weary from walking, we sat down next to each other on a bench in a quiet park away from the crowds.

    We relaxed, enjoying the peace and quiet.

    “It’s hot even at night, it’s crowded, and I’m not used to walking so much.”

    “That’s what makes it fun.”

    A few hours ago, I would have disagreed completely.

    But now, I’m feeling a little more agreeable.

    “Maybe.”

    “Oh, you finally admit it?”

    “Only when I’m with you, Riri.”

    “…Fufu.”

    Riri’s eyes crinkled at my reply.

    “I want to… do this…”

    Her previously cheerful voice now had a hint of seriousness.

    “Hmm?”

    “I want to keep doing this, next year, the year after that, always.”

    Riri often emphasizes being together forever.

    I understand why she felt that way before we started dating, but is there a reason to be insecure even now that we are?

    “Are you thinking that I might disappear someday because I’m not from this world?”

    “…No, it’s just… my family is all… scattered, so I sometimes wonder if you’ll also disappear someday, Mashiro.”

    Riri’s profile, her gaze fixed on the empty space before her, her eyes looked emptier than ever.

    I don’t want her to have such a sad expression when I’m here with her.

    I put my hand on top of hers.

    “Riri, I’ll always be with you.”

    “…Really?”

    Riri’s eyes lit up with emotion.

    “Yeah, forever.”

    And I kissed her.

    I wanted to convey my feelings, even a little, to make her feel that I’m here with her.

    Light flickered in the dimly lit park.

    Colorful fireworks bloomed in the night sky.

    “…I want… more concrete proof.”

    Riri’s eyes wavered.

    I’m probably the only one in this world who can quell that uncertainty.

    “Sleep over at my place tonight.”

    The sound of fireworks continued to echo through the night.

    A brief silence made me wonder if my voice had been drowned out by the noise.

    “Okay.”

    But Riri’s reply reassured me.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 107-108

    107 If My Feelings Reach You

    “Yukitsuki… Mashiro…?”

    Riri tilted her head, unable to comprehend.

    That’s to be expected.

    But I’ve decided to tell her.

    “Yes. Winter ‘snow(yuki),’ the ‘moon(tsuki)’ in the night sky, and ‘pure white.’ Yukitsuki Mashiro.”

    “N-No… you’re Suzuna, right…?”

    “This body is.”

    I placed my hand on my chest, looking down at Amatsuki Suzuna’s body.

    “But… the inside, my heart… is someone else’s.”

    “Um, well…”

    “I’m completely different from Amatsuki Suzuna. I didn’t have any dreams, my parents didn’t care about me, and I was a gloomy, unremarkable girl. And I thought… there was no point in living anymore, so I… took my own…”

    I don’t remember those memories very clearly.

    Maybe I want to forget how messed up I was, or maybe the moments before death are just hazy.

    But I do remember feeling like there was no meaning to my life.

    “And when I woke up next, I was Amatsuki Suzuna. That’s me.”

    “…W-Wait. Even if, hypothetically, that’s true, since when…?”

    “Right before I met you, right before I saved that person who was being harassed by a man.”

    “…H-Hmm.”

    Riri was trying to understand, but it wasn’t sinking in.

    That’s fine.

    As long as she knows a little about me, that’s enough.

    “And… this world… is the world of a dating sim. The protagonist is Shindo Minato, and the heroines are… you and me.”

    “…A dating sim… Shindo is the protagonist…”

    Riri’s eyes started to glaze over.

    She’s not just confused; she probably thinks I’ve lost my mind.

    But I’ll keep talking, at least to Riri.

    “I know it sounds unbelievable.”

    “…It does. Obviously.”

    “But you told me not to lie, Riri.”

    “I did, but…”

    “I’ve been lying all this time, but I couldn’t tell you. I didn’t think you’d believe me, so I tried to hide it.”

    But that became difficult.

    My inconsistent actions were all seen through by Riri.

    That dissonance accumulated within her, disrupting our relationship.

    “Shindo-kun is the protagonist, and we’re the heroines. So there was a possibility that you’d fall for him.”

    “No, I don’t think that would happen…”

    A natural reaction.

    But that’s fine.

    It doesn’t matter if she believes that this is a dating sim world or that Shindo-kun is the protagonist.

    The important thing is what I was thinking, why I was acting that way.

    “So I wanted to shift the interest towards the other heroines: Kokona-chan, Kanaori Reika-san, and Futaba-senpai. That’s why I was always talking to them and Shindo-kun.”

    And somewhere along the way, they started supporting me.

    They changed me and became the catalyst for my actions.

    “And my birthday in June is Yukitsuki Mashiro’s, and the one in August is Amatsuki Suzuna’s. I wasn’t lying to you. I like stuffed animals; that’s my hobby, not Amatsuki Suzuna’s.”

    The misunderstanding arose because the person inside changed.

    “So that’s why I was getting close to Shindo-kun. I didn’t want to ruin our relationship, Riri.”

    This is the important part.

    It doesn’t matter if she believes the outrageous story about this being a different world.

    I just want her to understand how much I care about her, beyond all that.

    “Th-Then… what about… earlier…?”

    “Earlier?”

    Riri, processing my words one by one, voiced her remaining question.

    “You were with Shindo in the classroom. And you said, ‘I want to be with the person I like… all the time, if possible.’ And Shindo said, ‘Okay.’ …So I thought you two were… becoming a couple, and I…”

    “Th-That’s not true! What are you talking about?!”

    I was wondering why she ran away from me, but so that’s what she was thinking.

    “I like you, Riri, so I decided to be with you, always. That’s why I told Shindo-kun that he didn’t have to celebrate Amatsuki Suzuna’s birthday with me.”

    “I-I see…”

    Riri nodded, though I don’t think she’s completely convinced.

    “You already celebrated with me, and that’s enough. I don’t need anyone else.”

    I think I finally managed to reveal what I’ve been hiding.

    But Riri’s confusion was still evident.

    I’m not going to deny it, and it’s understandable if she thinks I’m crazy.

    But I’m just trying my best to convey what I want her to know.

    “—Riri.”

    I stepped closer to Riri and took her hands.

    Even if she doesn’t believe me, I want her to know that these feelings are real.

    “So, my first love isn’t Shindo-kun. That was Amatsuki Suzuna’s love, not mine.”

    “So that means…”

    Riri’s wavering eyes reflected my image.

    I met her gaze directly, not looking away.

    “My first love is you, Riri. You’re the first person I’ve ever liked, and I want to be with you always… please believe that.”

    “…!”

    Riri’s hands tightened around mine.

    I was pulled closer to her chest, but her head was down, so I couldn’t tell what she was thinking.

    “Seriously, this is crazy. Do you think I can believe that?”

    “…No, I don’t.”

    That’s why I’ve been hiding it.

    “Normally, you’d think it’s a lie to cover up our fight.”

    “I would.”

    So maybe even after saying all this, nothing will change.

    Maybe Riri’s feelings will drift even further away.

    Knowing that, I still told her.

    “…But it’s… too clumsy of a lie, isn’t it?”

    “It is.”

    Maybe I should have told a more convincing lie instead of the truth.

    Revealing the truth isn’t always the right thing to do.

    Maybe I should have told a gentle lie that would comfort Riri.

    But I didn’t even want to do that. I couldn’t.

    I wanted her to see the real me.

    “Honestly, I can’t believe that kind of story. I’m thinking, ‘What is she even talking about?’”

    “…I know.”

    That’s normal.

    It would be natural for our relationship to end here.

    That’s sad, but there’s nothing I can do—

    “…But I wonder why…”

    “Riri?”

    Riri’s hands, clasped in mine, were trembling.

    “Even though I can’t believe it, even though I think it’s strange… why am I so happy…?”

    “Riri…”

    “If what you said is true… a part of me feels relieved. But more than that…”

    Riri looked up, her eyes glistening with tears.

    “You called me by my name for the first time, you said I’m your first love, you said you want to be with me always… That makes me so happy.”

    A single tear rolled down Riri’s cheek.

    “…I’m sorry. I couldn’t… tell you the truth until now.”

    “I’m the one who should apologize… I wouldn’t even listen, I kept rejecting you…”

    “No, don’t apologize. I’m the strange one…”

    Maybe this is all just a convenient delusion for me.

    So she doesn’t have to accept this fictional story.

    “But these feelings are real, so please believe that.”

    I took another step closer.

    A step that closed the distance between Riri and me to zero.

    I kissed her.

    Riri’s tears, spilling from her eyes, traced a path down my cheek, our skin becoming wet together.

    When our lips parted, Riri’s teary eyes gazed intently at me.

    “Riri.”

    “…Mashiro.”

    And I kissed her again.


    108 A Small Change

    Today is the closing ceremony.

    In the past, I would have spent this time without any particular feelings.

    Or rather, if I were still Amatsuki Suzuna, separated from Riri, this would have been an agonizing time, even more painful than usual.

    But I can face it now because—

    “Mashiro.”

    At our usual meeting spot in the downtown area, Riri called my name.

    It feels strangely nostalgic, even though it was just a few days ago that we stopped walking to school together.

    The return to our daily routine, with one small change, made my heart race.

    “It feels… strange to be called that again.”

    “What does?”

    “My name. I haven’t been called that in a while.”

    Riri started calling me by my name.

    It’s a borrowed name in this world, but she’s the only one who calls me by my real name.

    It’s embarrassing, but also… joyful.

    “Mashiro is your real name, right?”

    “Yes, if you believe me, Riri.”

    “Well… honestly, it still doesn’t feel real, but…”

    Riri, smiling wryly, is an honest person.

    She probably still doesn’t believe that this world is a dating sim.

    “But I also… know that you’re not lying, Mashiro. It’s a strange feeling.”

    But she’s at least trying to believe me, even a little.

    And that’s enough.

    Whether this is a different world or not isn’t that important to us.

    What matters more right now is…

    “Riri, aren’t you wearing the necklace? And your skirt is also… back to normal.”

    The buttons of her blouse were undone as usual, and her skirt was short.

    Riri let out a small groan at my words, but she quickly regained her composure.

    “I thought about it, but I don’t want the necklace you gave me to be confiscated at school. And buttoning up my blouse and lengthening my skirt isn’t… functional in this heat.”

    I also don’t want the necklace to be confiscated, so that’s fine.

    But I want to say something about the blouse and skirt.

    “Didn’t you say you don’t use the word ‘functional’ for clothes?”

    Those were her words when I talked about the functionality of my sweatsuit.

    I don’t, but you did, Mashiro.”

    I see, she thought I’d be convinced if she used my own words against me.

    But I’m also happy that she remembers such small details.

    I realized that this is how relationships deepen as time passes.

    “Well, it’s fine.”

    “Eh, seriously?”

    Riri’s surprised voice.

    It’s strange, but I feel like I’m more tolerant of Riri than I used to be.

    It’s probably because I’m more confident in our relationship, knowing that she understands me and still wants to be with me.

    “It’s more… you, after all.”

    “Ehehe…? Right? I knew it.”

    Our relationship, unchanged even after I revealed everything, is filling the loneliness within me.

    “Let’s go.”

    “I’m tired, but it’ll be over soon, so I guess I’ll endure it.”

    A languid, hot summer.

    But I can face it with a smile as long as I’m with Riri.

    ◇◇◇

    The closing ceremony was a formal affair, time passing by without anything particularly noteworthy happening.

    I did listen to Kanaori Reika’s speech on the stage, but the rest was a blur.

    It ended before I knew it, and the students started leaving the gymnasium.

    I followed the flow of the crowd.

    As I walked down the hallway, the summer sun suddenly shone through the windows.

    I squinted, and then someone tapped me on the shoulder.

    “Eh…?”

    I turned around, and there were swaying twintails.

    “Amatsuki Suzuna, I need to talk to you.”

    “Kokona-chan? What is it?”

    “It’s too crowded here, so let’s go somewhere else. I won’t take up too much of your time.”

    There’s still some time before the teacher comes to the classroom.

    And we only have homeroom left.

    It shouldn’t be a problem.

    I followed Kokona-chan and left the crowded hallway.

    ◇◇◇

    We arrived at the courtyard.

    It’s been a while, and the plants had grown lush and green, the trees covered in vibrant leaves.

    “So, you finally broke up with Onii-chan.”

    Kokona-chan got straight to the point.

    Shindo-kun must have told her.

    “It wasn’t a ‘breakup.’ We weren’t even dating in the first place.”

    “But you were more than friends. You’ve been taking care of Onii-chan all this time, since we were little.”

    “Well, that might be true… but I stopped that in the spring.”

    It was an unexpected consequence that Kokona-chan’s attitude towards Shindo-kun changed because of that.

    “I know that, but you didn’t tell him clearly, did you?”

    “That’s true, I didn’t.”

    I realized that my half-hearted attitude was the cause of everything, so I clarified my stance.

    I couldn’t face Riri otherwise.

    “Onii-chan liked you, you know. He was treating you like… more than a friend, less than a lover, because of your long-standing relationship, but he was a bit… conflicted when he heard you had someone you liked.”

    “I… see.”

    I didn’t sense that at all, but I guess those feelings were there somewhere.

    “He didn’t even realize it himself. He finally understood that having someone by his side isn’t something to be taken for granted, after you left.”

    “But that’s the same for you, Kokona-chan, isn’t it?”

    Kokona-chan’s character was always competing with Amatsuki Suzuna, diligently taking care of her brother.

    Since her attitude changed around spring, she must have felt a sense of loss then too.

    “Well… that’s true. But Kokona is his little sister, so our relationship will continue. For better or worse, that’s what family is.”

    “I see…”

    “But I think it’s a good thing in the end. I feel like it’s finally a chance for Onii-chan, who always relies on others, to become more independent.”

    “I see, then maybe it’s a good thing.”

    There are people who will offer you a helping hand, but there will always be a time when you have to stand on your own two feet.

    Otherwise, the relationship will eventually become distorted.

    That’s my experience.

    “So, are things going well with Hinase Riri?”

    “…?!”

    How does she know that?

    I haven’t told Shindo-kun.

    Kanaori-san and Futaba-senpai know, but they’re not the type to gossip…

    Could it be that everyone at school already knows…?

    “I can tell just by looking at you. Kokona has also known you almost as long as Onii-chan.”

    “Ah, I see… that’s true.”

    “Well, it’s fine, isn’t it? You, who have been clinging to Onii-chan since we were little, have finally found someone new. That’s healthier.”

    “Well, yeah… thanks to her.”

    I don’t know what to say anymore.

    “At first, I wondered why you were with such a gal, but seeing how much you’ve changed, maybe I was prejudiced.”

    “…Have I really changed…?”

    “You have, haven’t you? I don’t know if it’s for better or worse, but…”

    “There’s a ‘worse’ scenario?”

    “Well, you’re not as… gentle and agreeable as before. You’ve become more assertive.”

    “That’s… not a good change…”

    I think there’s a difference because I’m not Amatsuki Suzuna.

    But even so, it’s not a positive change.

    “But those are trivial things. You don’t have to worry about them.”

    “I wonder…”

    That makes me even more worried.

    “You are. You’re much happier now than before.”

    “…Eh?”

    It’s embarrassing that it’s so obvious.

    “Th-That’s not true!”

    “Don’t get so flustered, it’s tiring to watch.”

    I’m sorry…

    I wonder how many times Kokona-chan sighed while waiting for me to calm down.

    “So it’s fine. The important thing is whether you’re happy or not.”

    Kokona-chan stretched, raising both hands.

    As if to say she had said everything she wanted to say, she turned around and left the courtyard.

    “Kokona also needs to learn a little from you.”

    I wasn’t sure what she meant by that, but we parted ways.

    The sun was scorching, so I returned to the classroom.

    Summer break was just around the corner.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 105-106

    105 As Time Passes By: Hinase Riri’s Side

    Near the end of lunch break.

    Kaede and I, fed up with the heat, decided to buy some juice from the vending machine on the first floor.

    I was holding an orange soda, and Kaede had a sports drink.

    We were on our way back.

    “You chose that on purpose?”

    I didn’t understand the point of buying a sports drink.

    “It’s not good for you.”

    Kaede criticized my carbonated drink.

    “You’re worried about that?”

    “You should be, at least a little. You’re not going to stay young forever, and it’s not good for your skin when you get older.”

    It felt like she was different from me, already thinking about the distant future when we’re still teenagers.

    “Yeah, yeah, I’m only going to live for today.”

    “I know.”

    Kaede accepted it without any objection.

    That’s not very interesting.

    “Why do you understand me so well, Kaede?”

    “If you were the type who thinks about tomorrow, you wouldn’t be giving your crush the silent treatment for a week.”

    “Ugh…”

    I tried to be a little mean, but she completely turned it back on me.

    “How long are you going to be stubborn? You should just talk to Amatsuki and clear up any misunderstandings.”

    “I’m telling you, I want Suzuna to be the one to talk to me. If she really cares about me, she’ll definitely try to clear up the misunderstanding.”

    Kaede frowned at my reply.

    “That’s so tiring. Are you a clingy girlfriend?”

    “That’s annoying.”

    That’s a harsh reaction after asking me.

    I didn’t say that because I wanted to.

    “And Suzuna might have tried to clear up the misunderstanding, but you’re the one who rejected her. There’s no way she’ll approach you now.”

    “That’s why I’m saying she should try harder.”

    “…Think about Suzuna’s personality. She’s not exactly assertive.”

    That’s true, but…

    I don’t want her to talk about Suzuna’s personality as if she understands her perfectly.

    “You don’t know anything about Suzuna’s personality, Kaede, so stop saying such irresponsible things.”

    “Ah, possessiveness? You’re ignoring her, but you don’t want anyone else to touch her? Ouch, that hurts…”

    Kaede dramatically closed her eyes, as if I had said something incredibly painful.

    It’s not very amusing since I can’t deny any of it.

    “It’s fine. If she gives up that easily, then that’s how much she cares about me.”

    “You’re not being honest. You actually want her attention.”

    “Why do you understand me so well, Kaede?!”

    “Because there are so many things you do that make me think that way, Riri. Want to hear them?”

    She’s observing me that closely?

    I don’t know if it’s because Kaede is perceptive or if I’m being too obvious, but…

    “No, I don’t.”

    “Wise decision.”

    Kaede shook her head.

    “Seriously, are you sure you can afford to be so nonchalant?”

    “…What do you mean?”

    “Amatsuki is also a girl, you know? What if she wants someone to comfort her broken heart?”

    “Who?”

    “I don’t know. But Amatsuki has become more polished lately, thanks to someone, so I think there are probably people interested in her.”

    Kaede is perceptive, noticing everything from the reactions of those around us to individual changes.

    If Kaede says so, then it’s highly likely.

    “No… she wouldn’t change her mind so quickly.”

    “I’ve seen a lot of friends lose someone they like because they were too hesitant.”

    “…”

    Kaede’s words made me feel uneasy.

    “If you’re getting this flustered just from what I said, you should make up with her quickly.”

    “It’s fine. I’m waiting.”

    Kaede sighed deeply.

    ◇◇◇

    “…Just as I thought.”

    When I returned to the classroom, Kaede muttered.

    Her gaze was fixed on Suzuna and Shindo at the back of the classroom, by the window.

    “They’re just talking.”

    I tried to sound calm.

    “What if they’re making plans to meet up?”

    “No way, Suzuna said she’s not interested in Shindo.”

    “She’s just pretending.”

    Kaede didn’t believe me at all.

    “It’s none of my business.”

    I sat down at my desk, feeling like I was about to explode.

    “Then I guess I’ll eavesdrop.”

    “H-Hey…”

    Kaede approached Suzuna, pretending to be a passerby.

    I’m not worried about Suzuna and Shindo.

    I’m just focusing on Kaede’s strange behavior.

    Thud

    Kaede, passing by, dropped her wallet, and Suzuna picked it up.

    What is she doing?

    Kaede, after receiving her wallet, immediately returned to me.

    “Riri, you might be too late.”

    “…Huh?”

    ◇◇◇

    “So, Riri, why aren’t you going home?”

    “Well, I’m about to.”

    Kaede spoke to me as I remained in my seat after school.

    Only Suzuna, Shindo, a few classmates, Kaede, and I were left in the classroom.

    “You’re worried about Shindo, aren’t you?”

    “Not really.”

    But I did hear something strange from Kaede.

    Apparently, Suzuna cornered Shindo after school and said,

    “Do you have some time after school?”

    Looking directly at him, she said,

    “I need to talk to you.”

    And then, she said something suggestive:

    “It’s about… the future.”

    “The other students have left. Those two won’t talk if we stay here, so we have to leave.”

    “I didn’t know that, but I was thinking of going home soon.”

    “…Sure.”

    We went out into the hallway.

    “So you’re going to eavesdrop?”

    Kaede said knowingly.

    “I’m not.”

    “Just be honest.”

    “I am being honest.”

    I led Kaede towards the entrance.

    “…”

    But I still felt… uneasy.

    I stopped, and Kaede looked at me.

    “What’s wrong? Aren’t we going home?”

    “I forgot something.”

    “…That sounds like it’ll take a while. I’m going home.”

    “Okay, see you later.”

    “I hope you find what you forgot.”

    Kaede waved and left.

    I know she’s being considerate.

    I returned to the classroom.

    ◇◇◇

    I believe that Suzuna wouldn’t change her mind so easily.

    But Kaede’s words made me worry.

    I eavesdropped on the conversation coming from the classroom.

    Sorry, I’ll leave as soon as I confirm…

    “So… I want to be with the person I like… all the time, if possible.”

    Eh…

    Suzuna’s words made my breath catch in my throat.

    “Amatsuki is also a girl, you know. What if she wants someone to comfort her broken heart?”

    Kaede’s words from earlier replayed in my mind.

    Suzuna… is she… interested in Shindo…?

    “I see, I see… you’ve really changed, haven’t you? So that’s what it was.”

    “Yeah, that’s it.”

    “Okay, I understand.”

    They looked at each other as if they had reached an understanding.

    “We’re childhood friends, stuck together. I can tell when you’re serious, and I’m not insensitive enough to deny that.”

    And then, as if prompted, they reached for each other’s hands.

    No, I can’t let that happen…

    “Thank you.”

    Hearing Suzuna’s happy voice, I couldn’t take it anymore.

    Stumble!

    I almost tripped, caught myself, and then ran.

    I made an irreversible mistake.

    I was arrogant, thinking Suzuna would only look at me.

    I could only run away from the classroom, escaping from reality.


    106 The Truth

    I left the classroom.

    I saw a figure disappearing around the corner of the hallway.

    All I could see was her legs and the swirling of her skirt.

    But I knew instantly that it was Riri-chan.

    Why is she in such a hurry?

    It was as if she was running away from me.

    I started running after her.

    ◇◇◇

    When I reached the entrance, Riri-chan was changing her shoes.

    Thanks to that, I managed to catch up.

    “Riri-chan?!”

    “—!”

    Riri-chan looked at me reflexively at my raised voice.

    Her expression was a mixture of surprise, sadness, and anger.

    It seemed to be filled with complicated emotions.

    “Wait, I need to talk to you!”

    “…”

    But Riri-chan only glanced at me.

    After changing into her outdoor shoes, she left the entrance without hesitation.

    She didn’t say anything, just ran away from me.

    “Hey, why…”

    Am I being rejected again…?

    Even if I catch her, she’ll probably just push me away like last time.

    She might not want to listen to me anymore.

    “But I haven’t… told you yet…”

    But I won’t give up.

    I’ll tell her everything, and if it doesn’t work out, then it can’t be helped.

    I can’t end this without trying.

    I’ll catch her and make her listen.

    But Riri-chan is fast.

    If I change my shoes, she’ll quickly outrun me.

    So…

    “Riri-chan, wait!”

    So I chased after her in my indoor shoes.

    “—?!”

    She probably didn’t expect me to call out to her again so soon.

    Riri-chan turned around abruptly and stared at me.

    But she didn’t stop.

    The distance that had almost closed between us quickly widened again.

    Why?

    She could at least listen to me.

    As she left the school building, the distance between us increased even further.

    Riri-chan’s footsteps were light and swift.

    My legs felt heavy and clumsy, my lungs burning for oxygen.

    My ragged breathing was loud and annoying.

    I’ll never catch up at this rate.

    I can’t do anything unless she stops.

    —How can I make her turn around?

    She can definitely hear me, she’s looking at me, and she knows why.

    Knowing all that, she’s still choosing to ignore me.

    That’s why she won’t stop.

    How do you stop someone like that…?

    “Riri…”

    Maybe…

    Maybe Riri-chan doesn’t like being forced to do things she doesn’t want to do

    Then would she turn around if I granted her wish?

    Would she be willing to at least listen to me?

    If I accept what I’ve been stubbornly refusing…

    Would she also… accept me, even a little?

    With that hope, I forced oxygen into my burning lungs.

    My heart pounded, but that didn’t matter now.

    I clung to that sliver of hope, hoping she would listen.

    I took a deep breath and shouted—

    “—Riri!!”

    It was just her name.

    Just calling her without honorifics.

    But it’s what she wanted, what I’ve been refusing to do.

    I wanted to close the distance between us by closing that distance.

    “…Why?”

    My feelings reached her.

    Her footsteps stopped.

    I caught up to her and put my hand on her shoulder.

    I was out of breath, my body exhausted.

    But I finally caught up.

    “—Why are you suddenly calling me by my name?”

    “…That’s because…”

    I caught my breath.

    I straightened my bent knees and looked up.

    I met her gaze, her eyes filled with suspicion.

    I didn’t call her by her name just to get her attention.

    It’s not just that I didn’t want to call her “Riri.”

    I had my reasons.

    And now, I thought I could face her by revealing those reasons.

    That’s why I’m standing here.

    “Riri, I…”

    She once said,

    “Let’s call each other by our first names.”

    “Distance doesn’t shrink unless you take a step forward yourself.”

    She’s always been trying to close the distance between us.

    But no matter how many times she called me “Suzuna,” I insisted on calling her “Riri-chan.”

    Because I thought that was the appropriate distance.

    She probably thought it wasn’t equal.

    But that’s not true.

    Because… everything… hasn’t been real for me.

    “My name… is Yukitsuki Mashiro.”

    That’s why I wanted Riri to call me Mashiro.

    Because that’s the real me.

    Even though I’m Amatsuki Suzuna in this world, I want Riri, at least, to know the real Yukitsuki Mashiro.

    Because only then can we truly be equals, calling each other by our names.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 103-104

    103 The Answer Lies Within

    I couldn’t concentrate on the afternoon test.

    Futaba-senpai’s words, “How about I become your place?” wouldn’t leave my mind.

    I wasn’t thinking about that at all, but her words made me waver.

    Maybe it’s okay… if I can escape this loneliness.

    That thought surfaced.

    But I also wondered if it was truly the right thing to do.

    I don’t know how to reconcile these feelings since I’ve never experienced this before.

    All I know is that I’m confused.

    I hated myself for being so easily swayed, for my feelings for Riri-chan, which I thought were so resolute, being so fragile.

    The test ended without me finding an answer.

    ◇◇◇

    After school.

    I stayed until the very end, as usual, and then headed home.

    The school was very quiet without the after-school club activities.

    I walked alone down the silent hallway.

    Tomorrow is the last day of the final exams, followed immediately by the closing ceremony.

    Summer break will begin, and I won’t see Riri-chan.

    I don’t think I can spend those days alone.

    Then, maybe…

    “—Oh, Amatsuki-san?”

    A clear voice echoed through the hallway.

    I turned around, and there was Kanaori Reika.

    “You’re leaving quite late for a test day.”

    “You too, Kanaori-san.”

    “I was waiting for someone, and…”

    Kanaori-san’s expression hardened noticeably.

    I could sense her irritation.

    “Waiting for… someone…?”

    “Hinase Riri. I told her to come to the student council room after school, but she didn’t show up.”

    “Ah, I-I see…”

    The person I least want to talk about right now…

    The timing is terrible.

    “I was so impressed that she finally corrected her uniform, but she’s reverted back to her old ways.”

    “Th-That’s true…”

    “Thanks to your encouragement, Amatsuki-san, she finally started looking like a proper student. This is… a betrayal, even to you. I can’t believe it.”

    “Well, that’s…”

    It’s true that I influenced her to correct her uniform.

    But it’s also my fault that she reverted…

    I can’t say that, though.

    “And after I called her out to give her another warning, she stood me up. I don’t know what to do anymore.”

    “I-I see…”

    It seems like Riri-chan is a constant source of trouble for Kanaori-san.

    “Ah, that’s right!”

    Kanaori-san suddenly clasped her hands together, as if she had an idea.

    “What is it?”

    “I have a favor to ask. Could you… convey a message to her, Amatsuki-san?”

    My heart pounded with a sense of foreboding.

    “Convey… what…?”

    “If possible, I’d like you to… ask her to correct her uniform.”

    Kanaori-san was watching my reaction closely.

    “Well, that’s… a bit…”

    “Yes, I understand. I don’t want to cause any trouble between you two, so I won’t insist if it’s too difficult. I’m fine being the bad guy.”

    I’m impressed by her resolve.

    “Then I’d like you to tell Hinase-san to come to the student council room after school tomorrow, without fail.”

    She’s being so polite and humble that it’s hard to refuse…

    But… I can’t do that right now.

    “I’m sure she’ll listen to you, Amatsuki-san. I apologize for asking, but could you please cooperate?”

    “Well, that’s… a little…”

    Kanaori-san tilted her head at my hesitant response.

    “I thought you’d agree, Amatsuki-san, since you were the one who helped Hinase-san correct her uniform…”

    “Well, I… I do feel that way too, but…”

    There’s a problem that occurred before that, and I can’t do anything about it.

    “Did something happen between you and Hinase-san?”

    Kanaori-san quickly noticed my hesitation.

    “Um… yes.”

    Unable to come up with a plausible excuse, I just admitted it.

    “That’s unusual for you two. Did you have a fight?”

    “Ah… well… something like that.”

    “I see… Then this isn’t the time to be asking for favors.”

    Kanaori-san looked awkward and twirled a strand of her golden hair around her finger.

    “Since when? You two seemed to be getting along well when I saw you the other day.”

    “It happened after that.”

    “Did Hinase-san do something?”

    It’s probably because of their relationship that Kanaori-san immediately suspects Riri-chan…

    “No, it’s my fault. I kept lying to her, and she found out and got angry.”

    “Lying…? You, Amatsuki-san?”

    “Yes. I think she doesn’t trust me anymore. She hasn’t talked to me since then.”

    “That’s…”

    Kanaori-san put the strand of hair she was twirling to her lips, thought for a moment, and then let go.

    “Is it okay… to leave things like that?”

    “Um… well, it’s… too late now, I think.”

    “Too late?”

    “I’ve been lying from the beginning. I’d have to explain everything from when we first met. And who would want to listen to someone who’s built on lies? She probably doesn’t trust me anymore.”

    “But if you don’t talk to her, Amatsuki-san, won’t this situation continue?”

    “…Yes.”

    “Is it okay for you to become estranged from Hinase-san?”

    I think Kanaori-san is genuinely worried.

    But hearing her say it directly made my heart ache.

    “I’m sure she doesn’t want to talk to me. And Riri-chan has lots of friends, so it doesn’t matter if I’m gone.”

    “…What about you?”

    “I… have someone else who said they’d be with me. So I thought I could… rely on that person…”

    Putting my wavering feelings into words gradually gave them shape.

    I started to think that maybe… this was the right answer.

    “—Then, how about I—”

    “Eh?”

    Kanaori-san took a step forward, her voice filled with passion.

    But then she stopped.

    She bit her lip as if coming back to her senses and took a step back.

    “…No, that won’t be good for you, Amatsuki-san.”

    “For me?”

    I didn’t understand what she meant.

    “Were your lies… malicious?”

    “That’s…”

    That’s definitely not true.

    It was difficult for me to accept my situation at first, and I didn’t think she’d believe me.

    It was closer to resignation than malice.

    “If that’s the case, I think you should tell her the truth.”

    “Tell her the truth…? But it’s too late now…”

    “It might be too late for you, Amatsuki-san, but it might not be too late for Hinase-san.”

    “But she wouldn’t even listen to me…”

    She brushed off my hand, walked away, and told me she couldn’t be with me.

    “She might be waiting for you to try to talk to her again.”

    “…I don’t know about that.”

    “Yes, you don’t. But it’s not impossible, is it?”

    “You’re surprisingly optimistic, Kanaori-san.”

    “That’s not true, Amatsuki-san.”

    She took a light step forward, as if bouncing.

    Kanaori-san’s demeanor had changed, a more gentle approach.

    Her expression was slightly sad, but there was a smile on her lips.

    “You’re just… afraid of getting hurt.”

    “Afraid of getting hurt…?”

    “Yes, because you wouldn’t be thinking about… replacing her with someone else, would you?”

    “I… don’t know.”

    “No, you want to be with Hinase-san.”

    I don’t understand how she can be so sure.

    “How can you say that?”

    “I can tell. Because, Amatsuki-san… your expression and your eyes don’t change when you talk about anyone else, but they immediately change when you talk about Hinase-san.”

    “…Eh?”

    “It’s simple, I can tell just from looking at you.”

    What amazing observation skills.

    “Your expression and your eyes didn’t change when you talked about the other person who said they’d be with you. So your feelings should be clear, Amatsuki-san.”

    “But I don’t know what to do…”

    She tapped my chest with her finger.

    “The answer lies within your heart.”

    “…Um…”

    That’s a rather abstract answer for Kanaori-san.

    “You should be more honest with yourself, Amatsuki-san.”

    “Is that so…?”

    “Yes. You should practice… expressing your feelings.”

    “Expressing my feelings? Practice?”

    “Yes, for example… you could tell me who that… lover you mentioned earlier is…?”

    “Eh?!”

    Why did the conversation suddenly shift to romance…?

    This should just be a friend’s relationship troubles for her.

    “See? Your eyes sparkled, and your expression brightened.”

    “Um, th-that’s because…”

    Since she said my expression changes when I talk about Riri-chan, she must already know…

    “Fufu, I’m right, aren’t I?”

    “Um… you knew?”

    “I’ve been observing Hinase-san, for better or worse… and you too.”

    “I see…”

    As expected of Kanaori-san.

    I can’t compete with her perceptiveness.

    “You should learn to like yourself more, Amatsuki-san. And open your heart and show your true self.”

    “Is that… really okay…?”

    It seems simple, but it’s difficult.

    And I don’t think it’s something I’m allowed to do…

    “I think you’ll change, surely.”

    Kanaori-san removed her hand from my chest and walked away.

    Perhaps because of her touch, the weight in my chest felt a little lighter.


    104 Resolving to…

    The last day of final exams.

    Time flew by, and summer vacation was almost here.

    Before that, I have to find an answer.

    Kanaori-san told me the answer lies within myself, so—

    ◇◇◇

    Lunch break.

    Today, I didn’t go to the school store. I walked slowly towards the rooftop.

    My lack of appetite probably means I’m nervous.

    Opening the door, there was the same clear sky as yesterday, and a girl standing there.

    “Oh, you came again today.”

    “That’s what I said yesterday, didn’t I?”

    “I thought you might ignore me.”

    Futaba-senpai, as always, was relaxed.

    She’s naturally carefree, but I wonder where she gets that composure from.

    “I wouldn’t ignore you. I couldn’t, not after you said that to me.”

    I couldn’t just brush her off after she offered me such kind words.

    “Then can I hear your answer?”

    “That’s sudden.”

    “We can’t have a proper chat until we’re done with the main topic.”

    “That’s… true.”

    I asked myself.

    What do I want?

    But I already knew the answer.

    Because the reason I’m so hurt and unable to move on is that that person is more important to me than anyone else.

    There’s no replacing her.

    I can’t just fill the void with someone else; that would be unfair to Futaba-senpai.

    I steeled my resolve and looked at Futaba-senpai.

    Today, we were at eye level, and the sun wasn’t obscuring her expression.

    “Thank you, Futaba-senpai. I was happy that you offered me such kind words.”

    I expressed my honest feelings and bowed my head.

    “Well, I just did what I wanted to do.”

    Futaba-senpai’s tone remained unchanged.

    I couldn’t tell what she was thinking.

    But—

    “But I can’t… rely on you, senpai.”

    I looked up and said it clearly.

    Futaba-senpai’s eyes widened slightly, and then she returned to her usual relaxed smile.

    “Am I not good enough?”

    “No, it’s not like that.”

    I don’t have the right to say such arrogant things.

    It’s much simpler than that.

    “I… can’t give up.”

    Even after being rejected, having her let go of my hand, and losing my place…

    I still kept coming here.

    I could have given up at any time.

    But I endured because I was holding onto hope.

    “You can’t forget about her, can you?”

    “No, I can’t.”

    “She might reject you again, you know?”

    “Even so, that’s not a reason to rely on you, Futaba-senpai… or rather, I shouldn’t.”

    I shouldn’t lean on someone when I don’t have feelings for them.

    It might offer temporary comfort, but I think that kind of relationship would gradually become distorted.

    “Okay, okay, then good luck.”

    Futaba-senpai smiled cheerfully.

    “…You’re not… angry?”

    “Why would I be?”

    “Well, I ended up rejecting you after you tried to help me…”

    It must be painful for her that I didn’t take her offered hand.

    “Don’t you remember, Suzuna-chan?”

    “…Yes?”

    “I’m interested in… interesting things.”

    “…I see.”

    I’ve heard her say that since we first met, but…

    “There are things that are interesting precisely because they’re out of reach.”

    It was a typical Futaba-senpai-like remark.

    I couldn’t tell if she was being sincere or just trying to be considerate.

    ◇◇◇

    My mind was made up.

    I’ll talk to Riri-chan again.

    I don’t know if she’ll even look at me.

    But I don’t want to have any more regrets.

    I returned to the classroom and sat down at my desk.

    “Shindo-kun.”

    But there’s one more thing I have to do before that.

    “What is it, Suzuna? I’m trying to memorize vocabulary right now, so if you’re going to talk to me, speak English.”

    This guy…

    Neither of us is good at English…

    “Do you have some time after school?”

    “…Yeah, but what’s wrong?”

    “I need to talk to you.”

    Perhaps sensing my seriousness, he looked at me without his usual teasing tone.

    “What’s with the serious face?”

    “It’s about… the future.”

    “…Okay.”

    He seemed puzzled, but…

    Shindo-kun nodded and looked back at his textbook.

    Thud

    Something fell to the floor.

    “…Hmm?”

    I saw a designer wallet on the floor.

    (I’m not fashionable enough to know the brand, but I can tell it’s expensive.)

    I picked it up.

    “Ah, sorry.”

    I looked up, and Tachibana-san was looking at me.

    It seems to be hers.

    “Here.”

    “Ah, thanks…”

    I handed it to her, and she returned to her seat.

    ◇◇◇

    After school.

    Shindo-kun and I were the only ones left in the classroom.

    “…So, what is it, Suzuna? Making me stay until the very end after finally being freed from tests…”

    “I’m really sorry about that.”

    “…Just tell me what you want.”

    I’ve been avoiding confronting Shindo Minato, the protagonist.

    I’ve only tried to set him up with other heroines, avoiding direct conversation with him.

    But in the end, I, Amatsuki Suzuna, am the one who remained.

    That was my mistake, I think.

    “About summer break… you don’t have to celebrate my birthday with me.”

    “…Ah, okay.”

    “Yeah, we’re still childhood friends, but… you don’t have to do anything special.”

    “…What’s wrong? Do you want to be alone?”

    Shindo-kun’s expression was a mixture of surprise and concern.

    He’s probably worried about me.

    But I shouldn’t have ignored this.

    “I… have someone I like.”

    “…Seriously?”

    His voice rose in surprise.

    “Yeah, so… I want to be with that person… all the time, if possible.”

    “…H-Hmm… you, Suzuna, have someone you like… hmm…”

    Shindo-kun’s voice trailed off.

    I don’t know how strong his feelings for Amatsuki Suzuna are right now.

    But surely, the feelings he’s harbored since childhood aren’t zero.

    After all, there’s an Amatsuki Suzuna route as an ending option.

    So instead of pushing the responsibility onto someone else, I should have clearly severed my ties with him.

    That’s the only way I, Yukitsuki Mashiro, can escape the entanglement with Shindo Minato and Amatsuki Suzuna.

    Otherwise, I shouldn’t be facing Riri-chan.

    “I see, I see… you’ve really changed, haven’t you? So that’s what it was.”

    “Yeah, that’s it.”

    Shindo-kun nodded repeatedly, as if trying to convince himself.

    “Okay, I understand.”

    “Really…?”

    What I’m saying is severing the ties between Shindo Minato and Amatsuki Suzuna.

    I didn’t expect him to accept it so readily.

    “We’re childhood friends, stuck together. I can tell when you’re serious, and I’m not insensitive enough to deny that.”

    Shindo-kun held out his fist.

    He probably wants a fist bump.

    But that’s not something you do with a girl…

    “Thank you.”

    Even so, I held out my fist, feeling embarrassed.

    To thank Shindo-kun for understanding.

    His fist, unexpectedly hard, bumped against mine.

    Good.

    Now, all that’s left is… Riri-chan…

    Screech!

    “Eh…?”

    There was a noise from the door leading to the hallway.

    A flash of brown hair reflected in the window, then disappeared.

    But I instinctively knew.

    It’s Riri-chan.

    It must be.

    She was there.

    “Go, Suzuna.”

    “Eh, Shindo-kun, did you know who it was?”

    It was just a glimpse of her hair.

    “Not at all.”

    “Then why did you say that…?”

    “Because… it’s usually you in these kinds of situations, isn’t it?”

    “…”

    He’s so careless and unreliable, and yet…

    My hesitation vanished.

    Thinking that this was the moment, I ran out into the hallway.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 101-102

    101 I Hate You Because I Like You: Hinase Riri’s Side

    “Hey, Riri, did you have a fight with Amatsuki?”

    As we were walking home after school, Kaede teased me as soon as we were alone.

    “What are you talking about?”

    “You didn’t talk to Amatsuki at all today.”

    “It’s just a coincidence.”

    “And you’re not wearing the necklace she gave you. You even buttoned up your blouse yesterday to wear it.”

    Ugh…

    I was stupid for bragging to Kaede about it yesterday…

    “‘Hey, look! Suzuna gave this to me for my birthday. Isn’t it amazing?!’”

    Kaede mimicked me in a cutesy voice, her hand next to her face.

    That wasn’t her usual tone.

    “What was that? Are you imitating me?”

    “Yeah, you from yesterday. Similar, right?”

    The sudden shift back to her usual tone and demeanor was jarring.

    “Not at all! I wasn’t that… giddy.”

    “You were even more… lovestruck than my imitation just now.”

    “What do you mean, ‘lovestruck’?”

    “Like a pet happily receiving a treat.”

    “That’s annoying.”

    But was I really that giddy?

    Kaede teases me sometimes, but she’s not the type to exaggerate and make fun of me.

    I must have been acting that way.

    “I just happened to forget the necklace.”

    “Hmm. Happened to, huh…”

    She can’t deny it if I say that.

    This conversation is over.

    “Then why did you bring two bentos today?”

    “That’s… just out of habit…”

    I spaced out and unconsciously made two bentos and packed them in my bag.

    Habits are scary.

    “Well, even if you’re not eating together, you could have given one to Amatsuki.”

    “That’s…”

    “Amatsuki left the classroom quickly during lunch break, didn’t she? Did she go to the school store to buy something?”

    “I… guess?”

    I don’t know what she was doing; she didn’t come back to the classroom until class started.

    “Well, if you know, you should give it to her.”

    “She was… gone.”

    “You usually rush to her no matter where she is.”

    “Ugh…”

    Kaede kept cornering me, no matter how I answered.

    “You knew she walked past, but you deliberately pretended not to notice.”

    “…That’s just your imagination, Kaede.”

    “You’re always staring at her, and you say that?”

    Just how much does Kaede observe me?

    That’s scary.

    “You’re not walking to and from school together, you’re not giving her your bento, you’re not making eye contact, and you’re not talking to her. What do you think that looks like objectively?”

    I couldn’t think of a response to that list.

    “You had a fight, didn’t you?”

    “…It’s Suzuna’s fault.”

    I gave up on trying to deceive Kaede.

    ◇◇◇

    “You’re so childish…”

    After I briefly explained what happened, Kaede sighed, looking exasperated.

    “Who are you calling childish?”

    “You, Riri.”

    “Me?”

    “She just told you the wrong birthday.”

    She doesn’t understand.

    The unsentimental Kaede doesn’t understand how important that is.

    “Doesn’t that make you wonder? Why would she tell you the wrong birthday?”

    “Well, that’s definitely strange, but…”

    “So?”

    “But did you ask her why?”

    “…There’s no way I’d understand even if I asked.”

    “If she’s doing something that strange, there might be a deeper reason. You should try to understand.”

    “Shindo said he was going to celebrate her real birthday. Don’t you think she gave me a fake date because she didn’t want me to interfere?”

    That’s right.

    They have a strange, close relationship, so she probably thought I was in the way.

    “Did… Amatsuki say that?”

    “…She didn’t, but… she wouldn’t say that out loud.”

    “Hmm, Riri…”

    Kaede put her arm around my shoulder.

    “You’re… a bit heavy.”

    “No, you’re the heavy one…”

    What is she saying, leaning on me like that?

    “That’s not what I mean. Getting so worked up just because she lied to you, getting angry just because her childhood friend said he’d celebrate with her… Calm down.”

    “That’s because you’re not involved, Kaede…”

    “With lies, isn’t the reason behind them more important? Amatsuki might have had a reason for doing that. I think you should find out.”

    “…That’s…”

    “And about Shindo… wasn’t Amatsuki trying to… refuse him?”

    “Anyone can say that.”

    Kaede shook her head.

    “Seriously, I’m listening to your incredibly trivial lovers’ quarrel, and that’s how you respond?”

    “L-Lovers’ quarrel…?!”

    I haven’t told anyone that I’m dating Suzuna.

    “You’re obviously in love with Amatsuki. Your love is too heavy.”

    “A-Ahaha… you’re being funny, Kaede.”

    “You make her lunch, you get angry when she lies to you, you’re jealous of her interactions with her ex, you’re happy about her present, and you take it off when you’re upset.”

    “…”

    “You’re clearly Amatsuki’s girl, Riri.”

    “S-Suzuna is also a girl!”

    Kaede poked my chest.

    “And this… you’re not secretly showing it off without wearing it, hoping that Amatsuki will tell you to put it back on, are you?”

    “…H-Hey, that’s not…”

    “I know you have the necklace in your bag, ready to wear it anytime.”

    “…?! You looked in my bag?!”

    “No, it was a lucky guess.”

    “…Seriously…”

    Kaede grinned mischievously.

    “Rejecting him and then creating a reason for her to approach you… that’s sly. I thought you were more straightforward, Riri, but you’re so clingy when it comes to love.”

    “That’s not true!”

    What, what is this?!

    Well, it’s not like I didn’t consider that possibility…

    And I did show my leg, which still has a faint mark.

    I did think that Suzuna might get angry and confront me.

    But that was just a possibility.

    That’s not what I wanted.

    “Getting this worked up about it is proof that you like her. Do you know how easily love and hate can be converted?”

    Kaede’s interrogation showed no signs of stopping.

    Can’t she just let it go…?

    “Just make up with her already.”

    “I’m not going to do that just because you told me to!”

    “It’s affecting us too, you know.”

    “Why?”

    “You were always in a good mood when you were getting along with Amatsuki, but you’ve been so gloomy since your fight. Do you know that everyone was walking on eggshells around you today?”

    “I was acting normally.”

    “You were constantly fidgeting, barely responding to anyone, sighing all the time, and then you suddenly started pulling your hair out.”

    “It’s a habit!”

    “A habit you have when you’re in a bad mood.”

    “…Shut up!”

    Kaede just kept laughing.

    “Well, I find it amusing, so I don’t really care. But you’ll wear yourself out if you keep this up, Riri. Just a friendly advice.”

    “Okay, okay, thank you. But I’m not going to forgive Suzuna until she apologizes.”

    “You’re just putting on a brave face. You’ll forgive her immediately if she apologizes, won’t you?”

    “…”

    “Amatsuki must have a hard time being the emotional support for such a troublesome person.”

    I’m not troublesome!

    It’s Suzuna’s fault for not saying anything!


    Chapter 102: Looking Down

    It had been a few days since I last spoke to Riri-chan.

    Final exams had begun.

    School life, proceeding monotonously with the tests, offered fewer opportunities to talk to people than usual.

    That made it a little easier to bear the loneliness of being alone.

    So even though I usually hate tests, I’m grateful for them now.

    Time passed, but the weight in my chest remained.

    I tried to exhale, hoping to lighten the burden, but nothing changed.

    Tomorrow is the last day of the final exams.

    The closing ceremony will soon follow, and then summer break.

    And I’ll continue living my life… without Riri-chan.

    I’ll get used to it, surely.

    I spent each day believing that.

    ◇◇◇

    Lunch break arrived.

    I immediately left the classroom and headed for the school store.

    After buying a sandwich, I didn’t return to the classroom but went up the stairs.

    Opening the door to the rooftop, a dazzlingly blue sky spread before me.

    The sunlight was strong, its heat scorching my skin.

    I wished there was at least a breeze.

    “Oh, you’re here again.”

    Futaba Yuu was on the rooftop.

    “…Hello.”

    I gave a slight bow and sat down as far away from her as possible.

    There were no benches, so I sat directly on the floor.

    Since Riri-chan started ignoring me, I’ve been spending my lunch breaks here.

    I don’t like it because I’ll get sunburned, and it’s hot, but…

    There are people everywhere else, so this is the only place I can be alone.

    The only person eccentric enough to be on the rooftop at this time of year is the senpai heroine in front of me.

    “Shouldn’t you tell me by now?”

    Futaba-senpai was leaning against the railing, holding a carton of juice in her right hand.

    “…Tell you what?”

    I opened my sandwich.

    “Why you’ve been coming here every day lately.”

    “I don’t want to.”

    “Well, you refused to tell me the first time too, but if this continues, I’m going to get… curious.”

    When I came here the first time, she asked the same question, and I didn’t answer. Futaba-senpai, seemingly understanding, kept quiet.

    Thanks to that, I was able to spend my lunch breaks here in peace. But today, she’s pressing me for an answer.

    I took a bite of my sandwich.

    The bread was fluffy, and the egg filling was sweet.

    “Do you like this place?”

    I was trying to remain silent, but Futaba-senpai was being persistent.

    She must have been holding back for quite a while, considering she kept quiet for several days.

    “I don’t like school in general.”

    I don’t really want to talk to her either.

    But now that some time has passed, and my feelings for Riri-chan have calmed down, I have a little more room to talk.

    And it’s tiring to keep ignoring someone who’s talking to you, so I guess I have no choice but to answer.

    “Hmm, same here.”

    “…How are we the same?”

    “You’re here because you want to be alone.”

    “…”

    It’s not like Futaba Yuu doesn’t have any friends.

    She’s just eccentric, preferring to be alone during lunch break.

    She’s different from me, someone who can’t fit in with a group.

    “Oh, was I wrong?”

    If anything, we’re the opposite.

    I’m alone because I’m looking for a place where I can be alone without being bothered by other people’s gazes.

    “…I’m here because I can be alone in peace.”

    “Ah, I see.”

    She nodded, saying, “I see, I see,” and then there was a short silence.

    “But that’s contradictory, isn’t it?”

    “What is?”

    Futaba-senpai was talkative today.

    Maybe I shouldn’t have answered her.

    I should have just kept quiet.

    “If you don’t like being at school and you don’t like being alone, then you should be with someone, right?”

    She’s saying such obvious things again…

    People like her can’t understand how a lonely introvert feels.

    “It wouldn’t be a problem if I could do that.”

    “What about that girl? Hinase Riri-chan. You were close, weren’t you?”

    She brought up the name I least wanted to hear right now.

    “…”

    “Are you not getting along with her?”

    “…I don’t want to talk about it.”

    “That’s the same as saying yes.”

    Futaba-senpai smiled.

    I’m not trying to entertain her.

    “I see, so that’s why you’re uncomfortable being here.”

    The dry sound of footsteps.

    I looked to the side, and Futaba-senpai was approaching.

    “…What is it?”

    I looked up, but the sun was behind her, so I couldn’t see her face clearly.

    “Then how about… I become your place?”

    “…Excuse me?”

    “If you’ve lost your place with Hinase-chan, I’ll be your place.”

    I don’t understand what she means.

    “If you don’t like being in the classroom, you can come here every day. I’ll keep you company.”

    “…What about when it rains or snows?”

    “Then I’ll come to your classroom, Suzuna-chan. You can come here too, of course.”

    Would that… fill this loneliness, even a little?

    “The fact that you spent time with me here means you think there’s a possibility of us… being together, right?”

    …Honestly, I’m just here because there’s nowhere else to go.

    But maybe I can see it that way.

    “You’re lonely, aren’t you?”

    If this were the past me, the me before I met Riri-chan…

    I would have been able to be alone in the classroom.

    It was normal, so it was fine.

    But Riri-chan changed that.

    Now that I know what it’s like to be with someone, I can’t bear to be alone anymore.

    When did I become so weak?

    “Um, why are you doing this for me?”

    The one thing I didn’t understand was Futaba-senpai’s motive.

    “I told you when we first met, didn’t I? ‘Because you seem interesting.’”

    “…I see.”

    But would I be able to… relax if I did that?

    Would the weight in my chest disappear?

    Would this loneliness be filled?

    “It’s not easy, is it?”

    “…Well, no, it’s not.”

    “Tell me your answer tomorrow.”

    “That’s… rushing me.”

    “You can find the answer within yourself in a day.”

    That’s easy for her to say.

    I’m not the type of person who can understand myself that well.

    That’s why I hurt Riri-chan with my ambiguous attitude.

    “Then I’ll see you tomorrow.”

    Futaba-senpai waved and left.

    I still don’t know what to do.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 99-100

    99 Lies: Hinase Riri’s Side

    “Suzuna’s birthday… isn’t right?”

    It was a conversation I couldn’t believe I was having.

    “Um, well…”

    Suzuna looked away.

    She has that habit when something hits a nerve, and she doesn’t even deny it.

    “Suzuna, did you lie to me?”

    What’s the point of telling me a fake birthday?

    Does that mean birthdays don’t matter to her?

    Then why did she give me a present on my birthday?

    I felt like the necklace was tightening around my neck, choking me.

    “Hinase-san, is something wrong with Suzuna?”

    Shindo, sitting in front of Suzuna, asked.

    Since Suzuna remained silent, it might be faster to ask Shindo.

    “When is Suzuna’s birthday?”

    “Eh, it’s in August…”

    “I see. What were you planning to do for her birthday, Shindo?”

    “Well, Suzuna is always alone, so I’ve always celebrated her birthday with her. Every year.”

    What?

    I’ve never heard of this.

    Suzuna never told me.

    “Since it’s during summer break, I was checking her schedule to celebrate with her this year too… though she never has any plans.”

    Shindo’s tone towards Suzuna was too casual.

    It might have been fine before.

    But Suzuna is with me now; there’s no way I can allow that.

    “H-Hey, Shindo-kun… she didn’t say anything about doing that with you.”

    “Huh? We always do.”

    “But this year is different…”

    I remembered when I asked Suzuna about her plans for summer break yesterday.

    “So we’ll be together all of summer break.”

    “Yeah, I think it’ll be fine.”

    “…You think?”

    “Something might come up.”

    She gave me such a vague, evasive answer.

    I said I’d cancel all my plans.

    So this is that “something.”

    Their annual birthday celebration.

    So she didn’t want me to interfere?

    Is that why she told me a fake birthday?

    That doesn’t make sense, and I don’t want to believe it.

    But how else can I explain this?

    “Suzuna, you wanted Shindo to celebrate your birthday that much?”

    “No, that’s not it, Riri-chan…”

    “Then why did you tell me a fake birthday? What was that about June?”

    “That’s… um… well…”

    Suzuna just opened and closed her mouth, not offering a proper explanation.

    That’s the same as admitting it.

    “You did that to Hinase-san? That’s messed up. Hey, Suzuna, you wanted me to celebrate with you that much?”

    I’m angry at Suzuna.

    But I’m also angry at Shindo.

    I’m dating Suzuna, and yet, she’s prioritizing Shindo over me.

    A mere childhood friend knows a side of Suzuna that I don’t and is being sought out by her.

    There’s nothing more unpleasant than this.

    “Shindo, do you know what kind of stuffed animals Suzuna likes?”

    I wanted to know what he was planning to get Suzuna for her birthday, if he knew her preferences.

    I was being competitive.

    “Stuffed animals…? Does Suzuna even like those? She didn’t have any in her room.”

    “…”

    I was speechless.

    It annoys me that he’s been to her house, but…

    More than that, I’m shocked that he, Shindo, who’s known Suzuna for so long, said she doesn’t like stuffed animals.

    “W-Well, she started liking them recently…”

    “Ah, is that so? She suddenly became interested in childish things.”

    Come to think of it, the only stuffed animals in Suzuna’s room were the penguins I gave her.

    Isn’t it strange for a girl who likes stuffed animals to not have any until she received them as a present?

    Just how much of what Suzuna says is true?

    “Suzuna, was that also a lie?”

    “N-No, it’s not a lie! It’s true!”

    Then is Shindo lying?

    No, there’s no reason for him to lie.

    And come to think of it, Suzuna has been acting strangely since we first met.

    “Amatsuki-san, do you like sweets?”

    “…I hate them.”

    Suzuna liked sweets.

    “It’s after school, aren’t you a little hungry?”

    “I’m not hungry.”

    “Ah, then you must be thirsty, right? We ran quite a bit, and you were out of breath, Amatsuki-san.”

    “I’m not thirsty.”

    She lied so casually.

    Could it be that she’s been lying all along?

    The stuffed animals were a lie.

    Her birthday was a lie.

    And her feelings for me are also a lie—

    “…I see. Okay.”

    This is bad.

    If I stay here, I’ll do something I’ll regret.

    I can’t stay here.

    “Riri-chan, wait!”

    Suzuna, raising her voice unusually, grabbed my wrist.

    But I don’t want to be touched by that hand right now.

    “Let go.”

    I shook off Suzuna’s hand.

    “Eh…”

    Suzuna’s sad voice.

    It made my chest ache.

    But this is my pain.

    There’s no worse betrayal than this.

    I didn’t look at Suzuna and ran out into the hallway.

    ◇◇◇

    “R-Riri-chan!”

    As I was walking home, I heard a voice calling out to me.

    I turned around, and there was Suzuna, out of breath and without her bag.

    “…What?”

    I’m not sure I can talk to her calmly right now.

    “Listen, what happened earlier… is different.”

    “Different how…?”

    “What Shindo-kun said… is completely wrong.”

    Suzuna will probably try to explain everything, saying it was a misunderstanding.

    But that’s not the issue.

    Suzuna has been hiding things about Shindo, not telling me the truth.

    That feeling of dissonance has always been there.

    And now, the truth has been revealed.

    Maybe there really is a misunderstanding.

    But…

    “How am I supposed to believe that?”

    “That’s what I’m trying to—”

    “Can you honestly say you’ve been telling me the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, Suzuna?”

    “…!”

    Suzuna immediately fell silent at those words.

    See, that’s the answer.

    If what Shindo said was truly a misunderstanding…

    She wouldn’t have fallen silent just from that one question.

    Even if everything else wasn’t a lie, there’s a real lie somewhere, that’s why she’s silent.

    I can tell just from looking at her.

    I can understand just from her reaction because I’ve been watching her closely.

    “You said, ‘I’m on your side, Suzuna. Tell me anything.’ And ‘Don’t lie.’”

    “That’s…”

    Suzuna remained silent, looking down.

    “You’re human, so I understand that you can’t always tell the truth. But… I don’t understand this. I don’t understand why you’d lie about this.”

    “…”

    I still wanted her to deny it.

    Even if it was a lie, I wanted her to deny everything.

    I wanted her to say there was a reason.

    But she’s not doing that because she feels guilty, probably.

    “I don’t think I can… be with you for a while, Suzuna.”

    “…Okay.”

    She gives up so easily.

    If she really liked me, loved me, wouldn’t she hold on?

    Wouldn’t she try to stop me?

    I wanted someone who would always be with me.


    100 Retribution

    “Suzuna, did you lie to me?”

    I couldn’t answer her accusing question.

    “Suzuna, you wanted Shindo to celebrate your birthday that much?”

    That’s not true.

    I don’t want Shindo-kun to celebrate my birthday at all.

    “Then why did you tell me a fake birthday? What was that about June?”

    I can’t tell her.

    How can I explain something as nonsensical as being a reincarnator?

    How can I make her believe me?

    “Shindo, do you know what kind of stuffed animals Suzuna likes?”

    “Stuffed animals…? Does Suzuna even like those? She didn’t have any in her room.”

    Hurt and confusion flickered in Riri-chan’s eyes.

    No, that’s not right!

    That’s Amatsuki Suzuna, not me, Yukitsuki Mashiro!

    “Suzuna, was that also a lie?”

    “N-No, it’s not a lie! It’s true!”

    But it was too late.

    The accumulated lies and misunderstandings intertwined, obscuring the truth.

    The person reflected in Riri-chan’s eyes was a liar.

    Her downcast gaze no longer met mine.

    “Riri-chan, wait!”

    I grabbed her wrist as she turned to leave.

    “Let go.”

    She shook off my hand.

    It was the first time Riri-chan rejected me.

    It hurt.

    Not my hand, but my chest, my heart.

    But I couldn’t stop myself from chasing after her.

    I desperately pursued her.

    ◇◇◇

    I finally caught up to her and made her turn around.

    She usually forgives me easily.

    “Suzuna, can you honestly say you’ve been telling me the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?”

    I can’t.

    Because my very existence is a lie.

    I don’t know how to explain anything.

    Denying Amatsuki Suzuna and revealing Yukitsuki Mashiro…

    It’s too late for that now.

    “You said, ‘I’m on your side, Suzuna. Tell me anything.’ And ‘Don’t lie.’”

    I couldn’t tell her because of that trust.

    I couldn’t deny the “Amatsuki Suzuna” she knew.

    I didn’t have the confidence that she’d still like me after knowing the real me.

    “You’re human, so I understand that you can’t always tell the truth. But… I don’t understand this. I don’t understand why you’d lie about this.”

    I don’t understand either.

    I didn’t want this to happen.

    “I don’t think I can… be with you for a while, Suzuna.”

    Rejection.

    Riri-chan, who has always been with me, is letting go of my hand.

    No.

    Pain, suffering, sadness, loneliness, fear.

    A whirlpool of negative emotions. I wanted to grab her hand, the hand that saved me from them.

    “…Okay.”

    But I realized something.

    I don’t have the right to wish for that.

    How many times have I rejected Riri-chan like this since we met?

    And every time, she never showed any displeasure, always staying by my side.

    How much pain have I caused her, how oblivious have I been?

    I can’t forgive myself for finally realizing it now.

    ◇◇◇

    The next morning, I was alone.

    There was a message from Riri-chan on my phone: “Let’s go to school separately for a while.”

    A short, simple, and indifferent message.

    She usually sends emojis, emoticons, and stickers.

    Just that one line made the distance between us feel real.

    I don’t want to go.

    I don’t want to go to school alone.

    I’m not sure I can handle the loneliness.

    But maybe something will change if I go to school.

    Believing that, I forced my leaden body to move.

    ◇◇◇

    “…Eh?”

    That faint hope was immediately crushed.

    Riri-chan’s blouse was unbuttoned, and her skirt was short again.

    The necklace was gone, and so was the bite mark on her leg.

    Those were the things that bound her to me, the proof that she was mine.

    The fact that she discarded them all means she doesn’t want to keep any trace of me.

    It means she’s abandoned me.

    Stunned, I sat down at my desk alone.

    It’s been a while since I’ve been alone and silent in the noisy classroom.

    ◇◇◇

    Lunch break.

    “Hey, Riri, aren’t you eating lunch with Amatsuki today?”

    I heard Kaede-san’s voice.

    “Ah… yeah. I wanted to eat with everyone for a change.”

    Riri-chan casually blended in with her friends.

    It’s fine, she just reverted to her former self.

    I’ll get used to it soon.

    “…Ah.”

    I forgot to prepare lunch.

    I always forgot because Riri-chan made it for me.

    Just as I was telling myself it was okay… this happened.

    A sudden error.

    I wasn’t particularly hungry, but I couldn’t stay in the classroom.

    I don’t have lunch, so I’ll go to the school store and buy something.

    I told myself that without any real conviction and stood up.

    I walked past Riri-chan and her friends.

    I could hear their voices, but I couldn’t look at them.

    What if I made eye contact with Riri-chan, and she looked away?

    What if she’s lost all interest in me and won’t even look at me?

    I’m afraid of finding out.

    I left the classroom as if running away.

    ◇◇◇

    After school.

    I was alone in the classroom.

    I didn’t have the courage to go home yet.

    …Or rather, I was holding onto a faint hope.

    That maybe… Riri-chan would call out to me.

    That maybe… she’d forgive me.

    But that didn’t happen.

    Riri-chan left school with Tachibana-san and the others.

    It’s only natural.

    I’m the strange one, clinging to hope.

    Riri-chan once patted my head when I was feeling down on an evening like this.

    She won’t do that anymore.

    I gave up and left the classroom.

    ◇◇◇

    I went down the stairs.

    This landing is where Riri-chan and I first kissed cheeks.

    I walked towards the entrance.

    That wall is where Riri-chan leaned against, waiting for me.

    I passed by the park.

    That’s where we promised to celebrate her birthday and shared our first deep kiss.

    The corner of the residential street.

    That’s where Riri-chan, jealous of my past, kissed me almost angrily.

    The downtown area.

    That’s where Riri-chan—

    My vision blurred.

    “No matter… where I go… you’re there…”

    The dazzling setting sun and the blurring scenery overwhelmed me, and the world crumbled.

    Riri-chan isn’t here.

    And yet, she’s everywhere I look.

    Even when I try to push her out of my mind, the memories etched into my heart call out to her.

    If I keep indulging in these memories, I’ll drown in them.

    Wiping away the tears, I ignored everything and went home.

    If I return to a world consisting only of myself, I might be able to endure this.

    As if driven by instinct, I climbed the stairs and fled to my room.

    “…Ah.”

    It’s no use.

    The two pairs of penguin plushies were lying on the bed.

    The present Riri-chan gave me for my birthday, Yukitsuki Mashiro’s birthday.

    Riri-chan’s presence is everywhere.

    She won’t let me erase her from my memory.

    “…Ugh…”

    I collapsed onto my knees and hugged the plushies.

    Something within me broke, and tears streamed down my face.

    My chest ached, and I couldn’t stop sobbing.

    I was supposed to be fine alone.

    I wasn’t supposed to want to be involved with anyone.

    Riri-chan isn’t here.

    And the world has lost its color.

    I shouldn’t have known.

    If it’s this painful, this agonizing, this sad, this lonely, this terrifying…

    I should have stayed alone forever.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 97-98

    97 A False Existence

    “…So? How is it?”

    Riri-chan’s face was buried in my chest.

    Well, my chest isn’t as large as Riri-chan’s, so “buried” might not be the right word.

    Resting on my chest, maybe.

    Anyway, I did this because Riri-chan wanted a normal expression of affection.

    I want some kind of reaction.

    “…Suu… haa…”

    She was… inhaling.

    “What are you doing?”

    “Smelling you.”

    “…”

    “Ah! Sorry, sorry. Don’t move.”

    She clung to me when I tried to pull away because she was saying strange things.

    She’s the one who should act more normal.

    “Hey, Suzuna.”

    Riri-chan’s voice was muffled against my blouse.

    “What?”

    “We’re alone right now.”

    “…I know.”

    “We’re lovers, right?”

    “We are.”

    “Isn’t this… what we’re supposed to do at times like these?”

    “…”

    I kind of understand what she’s trying to say.

    I do, but…

    “We’re supposed to be studying.”

    “After I invited you over like this?”

    I could feel Riri-chan’s breath against my chest.

    It was warm and moist, and I sensed her emotions in it.

    “I didn’t mean it like that.”

    “Then when will you mean it like that?”

    It’s not like I don’t have those feelings.

    But I’ve decided that I’ll be the one to initiate it next time.

    If I let Riri-chan take the lead, I feel like I’ll just keep relying on her and taking advantage of our relationship.

    So I’ve decided that I’ll do it when I have the courage.

    “Not today.”

    “…You’re teasing me.”

    Riri-chan grumbled and lifted her head.

    “You can bite me whenever you want, Suzuna, but I’m being kept waiting.”

    Riri-chan was rubbing her thigh.

    Riri-chan, restricted by the necklace I gave her and the bite mark I left.

    That’s good.

    Riri-chan is free-spirited, so I need to restrict her.

    Even if that free-spiritedness is what brought us closer.

    She’s mine now, so she doesn’t need to be free.

    “Sorry.”

    “…Ah, well, I was kidding.”

    Riri-chan seemed surprised that I apologized so readily.

    I don’t feel bad about restricting Riri-chan’s freedom, but I do feel bad about suppressing her desire for me.

    Because that’s her desire for me.

    And those feelings make me happy.

    I moved back to my usual spot across from Riri-chan and resumed studying.

    “Suzuna.”

    “…What?”

    Just when I thought we were going to study, Riri-chan spoke again.

    She apparently doesn’t intend to study yet.

    “What’s my name?”

    “…”

    It seems like Riri-chan’s brain has been fried from studying too much.

    I’m worried.

    “Did you lose your memory?”

    “I’m asking you seriously.”

    “That’s not a serious question.”

    “Just answer me.”

    …I don’t understand, but I’ll answer if she insists.

    “Riri-chan.”

    “Buzz! Wrong.”

    She stuck out her lower lip, emphasizing the “buzz.”

    “It seems like you really did lose your memory. Should we go to the hospital?”

    “That’s not true! Tell me my name properly!”

    What is she even talking about?

    “It’s Riri-chan, isn’t it? What else could it be?”

    …Don’t tell me she’s going to say she’s also a reincarnator.

    Both heroines being reincarnators is a common trope; it wouldn’t be surprising.

    But I’m not hoping for that.

    “My name isn’t ‘Riri-chan.’”

    “…Don’t tell me you’re trying to say something stupid.”

    “Your name is ‘Suzuna,’ not ‘Suzuna-chan.’”

    …I’m relieved that Riri-chan isn’t a reincarnator.

    But why is she emphasizing such a trivial thing?

    “What’s the difference? They’re the same.”

    “They’re not. Don’t you think the ‘-chan’ is unnecessary now?”

    “…I wonder.”

    “It is. Since we’re lovers, shouldn’t we call each other by our first names?”

    “I’m used to it, so it’s fine the way it is.”

    “It’s not fine. There’s a subtle distance. It’s strange that I call you by your first name, but you don’t do the same for me.”

    “Then call me ‘Suzuna-chan.’”

    That would be equal, and there wouldn’t be the dissonance she’s talking about.

    “No. You know that’s not what I mean.”

    I kind of understand, and I kind of don’t…

    “But I’m used to ‘Riri-chan.’ It’s fine the way it is.”

    “You’ll get used to calling me by my first name too.”

    “…Okay, I’ll call you ‘Riri-chan.’”

    It’s one thing at the beginning, but we’ve reached a comfortable distance.

    I don’t think there’s a need to create awkwardness now.

    “You’re so mean, Suzuna…”

    Riri-chan slumped onto the desk, throwing her arms out.

    “I know you’re shy, Suzuna.”

    “I’m not.”

    “But I want you to say it someday.”

    “…Someday.”

    I didn’t make a promise, but I also didn’t completely deny it.

    Maybe I’ll call her by her first name someday, if I change my mind.

    “So, you’ll be with me during summer break, right?”

    Riri-chan’s face lit up.

    Her emotions are so easy to read, her expressions changing instantly.

    “…Aren’t you the busy one, Riri-chan?”

    I can’t imagine Riri-chan’s friends leaving her alone.

    Her schedule must be completely full.

    “Don’t worry, I’ll cancel everything.”

    “…”

    Déjà vu.

    I’m happy to spend time with her, but I don’t think she needs to cancel everything.

    “So we’ll be together all of summer break.”

    …All of it, huh?

    I’m fine with that, but there’s also the Shindo-kun situation.

    The individual routes will be determined after summer break, so I might need to check on his progress before then.

    “Yeah, I think it’ll be fine.”

    “…You think?”

    Riri-chan is fixated on that word.

    “Something might come up.”

    “Ah, well… that’s true.”

    She nodded, accepting that it couldn’t be helped.

    I feel bad for giving such vague answers.

    ◇◇◇

    Time passed slowly as we both struggled to concentrate.

    “I should probably go home soon.”

    Riri-chan initiated the end of our study session, and I walked her to the entrance.

    It was completely dark outside, and the oppressive heat had subsided slightly.

    “…Riri-chan, your skirt.”

    Her leg, with the bite mark, was still exposed.

    “Hmm? Ah, this… it’s fine.”

    “Really? Are you going to wear it like that at school too?”

    “Yeah. If anyone asks, ‘What happened to your leg?,’ I’ll say, ‘Suzuna bit me.’”

    “…That’s…”

    I didn’t expect her to be so bold.

    I didn’t anticipate that kind of development.

    “Fufu, just kidding. I’m only showing it off because it’s dark and no one can see. I’ll hide it at school.”

    She just wanted to see me panic.

    Riri-chan smirked.

    “What’s that about?”

    “Just… revenge for various things.”

    Well, I’ve also been teasing her, so I can’t complain.

    “Hey, Suzuna.”

    The cool night air ruffled my hair.

    Riri-chan gently brushed it aside and looked at me.

    “What?”

    “I like you, Suzuna.”

    “…”

    What is she saying all of a sudden?

    “So, I’m on your side, Suzuna. Tell me anything.”

    “Okay.”

    “Don’t lie.”

    “…Okay.”

    I think she’s saying all this because she likes me.

    But Riri-chan’s tone was so serious that I could only nod in response.

    “Good. See you later, Suzuna.”

    I waved goodbye to Riri-chan.

    Don’t lie.

    Am I lying, being both Amatsuki Suzuna and Yukitsuki Mashiro?

    I watched her walk away, a lingering unease in my heart.


    98 Misunderstanding

    “…Riri-chan, that outfit…”

    “It’s your fault, Suzuna, so don’t look at me like that.”

    When I met Riri-chan this morning, as usual, her attire had changed.

    It was still the school uniform, but her blouse was buttoned up, and her skirt was longer.

    A much more… well-behaved look.

    Just the uniform, though.

    “It’s because you bite my leg.”

    She glared at me resentfully.

    But honestly, I’m happy about this change.

    “Yeah, it makes me want to bite you even more.”

    “Absolutely not! I don’t want this anymore!”

    Riri-chan clutched her head, ruffling her hair.

    She was genuinely displeased.

    “…Well, it doesn’t really suit you, but…”

    “You’re the one who did it!”

    I was scolded.

    We entered the school building and walked down the hallway.

    The morning air was tense and heavy.

    “Hey, about summer break… how about a sleepover?”

    She’s as cheerful as ever, completely unaffected by the atmosphere.

    “A sleepover…?”

    “Yeah, at my place. Or yours, Suzuna.”

    It’s true that we both live alone, so there’s no problem with having a sleepover.

    Or rather, even if our parents were around, it wouldn’t be strange for two girls to sleep over.

    “Okay, but… what are we going to do?”

    “Anything.”

    “Anything…?”

    “Isn’t it fun just being together?”

    “Well…”

    That might be true.

    “We could also go to the beach, since it’s summer.”

    “…Huh?”

    “Hey, I didn’t say anything weird.”

    “There’s nothing to do at the beach.”

    “We can swim. I want to see you in a swimsuit, Suzuna.”

    “…Absolutely not.”

    Why would I subject the public to my pathetic body?

    “I think it would be beautiful.”

    Riri-chan’s comments have been… suggestive lately.

    I think she should calm down a little.

    “If you don’t come, I’ll go with Kaede and the others.”

    …Riri-chan at the beach?

    At the beach in a swimsuit with her cheerful friends.

    I can easily imagine her attracting everyone’s attention.

    “No.”

    “But if you’re not coming, Suzuna, I have no choice, do I?”

    “You said you’d cancel all your other plans.”

    “You’re the one who canceled on me, so what else can I do?”

    She’s saying strange things again.

    “No, just no.”

    “You won’t go, and you won’t let me go? Aren’t you being a little selfish?”

    “I’ll bite you all over if you do.”

    That’s how I’ll make sure she can’t expose her skin in a swimsuit.

    “Y-You’d go that far…? That’s scary, Suzuna; you’re capable of anything.”

    “I’ve told you before, you’re not allowed to show your skin to other people, Riri-chan.”

    “Um… it’s a swimsuit.”

    “Are you stupid? If it’s not okay even in your uniform, it’s definitely not okay in a swimsuit.”

    “W-Well… I don’t think I’m the stupid one…”

    Riri-chan scratched her head, muttering, “Good grief…”

    I’m the one who wants to do that.

    “But why do you want me to cover up so much, Suzuna?”

    “It’s not about what I want you to do. You don’t need to show yourself to other people.”

    “Like a sheltered princess?”

    “It’s fine, I’ll look at you, that’s enough.”

    “Hmm?”

    “Eh?”

    An awkward silence.

    I think I said something strange.

    “—I can hear an inappropriate conversation about… exposure… which is unsuitable for this time of day.”

    “K-Kanaori!”

    “Kanaori-san.”

    The student council president, frowning, stood behind us.

    “It’s fine to be excited about summer break, but you should focus on the final exams first. Especially you.”

    Kanaori-san glared at Riri-chan.

    “Just let us talk about our plans.”

    “That’s how your personal life becomes frivolous, and you neglect your studies.”

    “What’s so frivolous about my personal life?”

    “Just look at how disheveled your uniform is—wait…”

    Kanaori-san realized her own contradiction and trailed off.

    Indeed, there was nothing frivolous about her uniform.

    “H-Hinase-san… are you being… punished by someone?”

    “Why would you think that just because I’m wearing my uniform properly…?”

    “I don’t understand how you could be so… compliant after completely ignoring everything I said.”

    That’s harsh, Riri-chan.

    “It’s her fault.”

    Riri-chan pointed at me.

    “Ah, Amatsuki-san… what miracle did you use to… fix Hinase-san?”

    A miracle…?

    I can’t say I bit her…

    “Ah… well, all it takes is one word from me.”

    One word that shuts her up instantly.

    Riri-chan’s knowing gaze was cold.

    “Wh-What words of wisdom did you utter? Please enlighten me.”

    Ah, this is bad…

    I made her even more curious.

    And Kanaori-san, while her uniform is now proper, her makeup and nails are still… flashy.

    She must have forgotten in her surprise.

    ◇◇◇

    After school.

    It was difficult to explain and smooth things over with Kanaori-san after that misunderstanding this morning.

    I didn’t expect that exhaustion to last until now…

    I should be more careful with my words, being so bad with them.

    I packed my textbooks into my bag, wanting to go home quickly.

    “Hey, Suzuna?”

    A voice called out to me.

    It was Shindo-kun.

    “What is it? I’m going home.”

    “Ah, well, your birthday is during summer break, right? What are you doing this year?”

    I was momentarily confused.

    “…Ah.”

    My birthday as Yukitsuki Mashiro was in June.

    Amatsuki Suzuna’s birthday is in August.

    My memories are getting mixed up…

    Well, it’s fine since I’m not planning on celebrating with Shindo-kun.

    “This year, I…”

    “—What’s the meaning of this?”

    A sharp voice cut in from beside me.

    It was Riri-chan.

    “Riri…-chan?”

    Her demeanor was different from usual.

    Heavy, yet with a fragile, strained quality.

    “Isn’t Suzuna’s birthday… different?”

    “Ah, um…”

    This is troublesome…

    It’s true that Amatsuki Suzuna’s birthday is in August; it’s easy to find out.

    I can’t lie about that.

    And I can’t explain Yukitsuki Mashiro’s birthday either.

    This is a complicated situation.

    “Suzuna, did you lie to me?”

    And the timing couldn’t be worse.

    I’m betraying the promise we made last night.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 95-96

    95 Past and Present Relationships

    After school.

    “The final exams are coming up soon.”

    Shindo-kun spoke to me as I was getting ready to go home.

    “That’s true.”

    Just when I thought the flurry of events from the sports festival to the cultural festival was over, now it’s exam season.

    I wish this hectic schedule would stop.

    “Are you studying?”

    “No, not at all.”

    “Me neither.”

    “Isn’t that bad?”

    “You too.”

    Casual, everyday conversation.

    Even so, I’m the only one Shindo-kun talks to among the heroines at school.

    “Hey, teach me again like before.”

    How long ago is he referring to?

    Is he talking about the study session we had in the student council room with all the heroines?

    Or is he talking about older memories with Amatsuki Suzuna, his childhood friend?

    …Either way.

    “Sorry, I think that will be difficult.”

    “Do you have something to do?”

    “I do.”

    I feel like I will have something to do, and even if I don’t, I shouldn’t study with Shindo-kun.

    “…With Hinase-san…?”

    “Maybe.”

    I nodded, since there’s no reason to deny it.

    “You’ve really become close with Hinase lately.”

    “…Yeah.”

    I can’t tell him it’s because we’re dating.

    “I see, I see, then it can’t be helped.”

    Shindo-kun paused slightly.

    “You’ve changed, Suzuna.”

    “…Have I?”

    From Shindo-kun’s perspective, his childhood friend, whom he’s known for so long, has become distant.

    So he’s probably not happy about it.

    “Yeah, you seem like a different person.”

    …Well, I am a different person.

    And I can’t get closer to Shindo-kun.

    Even after the cultural festival, there’s been no progress in his relationships with the heroines.

    At this rate, I might end up with the bad ending, the one where I get closer to him.

    “Suzuna, let’s go home!”

    Riri-chan’s voice called out to me.

    “Ah, okay, I’m coming.”

    During the cultural festival, which was supposed to be a branching point, I was only thinking about Riri-chan.

    The individual routes branch off at the start of the new semester in September, after summer break.

    In other words, a little over a month from now.

    I have to think about what will happen as time passes.

    “See you later, Shindo-kun.”

    “Yeah, see ya.”

    ◇◇◇

    “What were you talking about with Shindo?”

    Riri-chan’s tone was slightly sharp.

    She might be bothered by something.

    “It was nothing, we were just talking about how the final exams are coming up soon.”

    “…Anything else?”

    I’ve told Riri-chan many times that Shindo-kun is nothing to me.

    And she said she understood.

    But today is different, it seems.

    “He just asked me to help him study.”

    “…Don’t tell me…”

    “I refused. That’s definitely not happening.”

    I’m talking about the ending in this world.

    I know it’s not good, for Riri-chan’s sake and mine.

    “…Okay, if you say so.”

    But Riri-chan’s mood didn’t improve.

    She remained sullen as we went outside.

    I don’t want to go home in this awkward atmosphere.

    “What’s wrong, Riri-chan? You’ve been acting strange.”

    “…I’m just… not happy.”

    “Not happy?”

    “Shindo’s a childhood friend you’ve known for a long time, so you talk to him casually, right?”

    “Well…”

    That’s what childhood friends do.

    “I know you don’t have feelings for Shindo anymore, Suzuna. But you’re still talking to him because of your past relationship, right?”

    “That might be true.”

    “I only know the Suzuna from our second year. I can’t compete with that kind of long-term relationship.”

    “Ah, well…”

    That might be true, but…

    “But it’s the same for both of us, isn’t it? You have a childhood friend too, Riri-chan.”

    “I do, but I don’t have a male childhood friend who talks to me so casually.”

    “Ah, I see…”

    That’s right, Riri-chan said she’s not good with boys.

    Maybe she doesn’t understand a relationship like Amatsuki Suzuna and Shindo Minato.

    “So—”

    “Eh, ah!”

    Was it intentional, or not?

    I was suddenly pushed against the wall of a quiet street.

    “H-Hey, Riri-chan…”

    “Just be quiet.”

    She kissed me.

    After a few deep kisses, our lips finally parted.

    Today’s kiss was more forceful than before, almost… painful.

    “I’m the only one who can kiss you like this, Suzuna, the only one who can see this side of you.”

    What does she want, saying such embarrassing things with a straight face?

    This conversation has strayed far from the topic of Shindo-kun.

    “…That’s true.”

    “But your memories, your past relationships, they don’t belong to me. And that frustrates me.”

    “Frustrates you…?”

    “It frustrates me that your past doesn’t belong to me. And that the relationship you had then is still continuing in a different form.”

    “That’s…”

    “I know, I know, it’s pointless to think about it. And I’m not saying it’s your fault, Suzuna. But I can’t help but think…”

    Riri-chan looked away as she spoke.

    “Why wasn’t I your first love?”

    “…Ah.”

    So that’s what it was.

    Riri-chan is my first love, but for Amatsuki Suzuna, it was Shindo Minato.

    That relationship always follows us, and that’s what frustrates Riri-chan.

    But that’s not true.

    That’s Amatsuki Suzuna’s story, not mine, Yukitsuki Mashiro.

    So we’re actually the same.

    “Th-That’s not true, Riri-chan… it’s really not like that…”

    “It’s okay, Suzuna. I know I’m being stupid.”

    “No, really, I never liked Shindo-kun from the beginn—”

    How do I explain this?

    How do I make her understand that it’s Amatsuki Suzuna’s story, not Yukitsuki Mashiro’s?

    Would she believe me if I said I’m a different person, reincarnated?

    Would she understand everything if I told her that?

    “Sorry, I was being mean. It’s not your fault, Suzuna.”

    Riri-chan gently stroked my head.

    Her touch and her voice were truly gentle, and yet, it was painful.

    The existence of Amatsuki Suzuna continues to haunt me, no matter how much I struggle.

    That existence, which is me and yet not me, is distorting my relationship with Riri-chan.

    If I could just tell her the truth, if she could just believe me…

    This small dissonance would disappear, and I think we could become even closer.

    “I know that you’re only mine now, Suzuna. I should be satisfied with that. I’m so childish.”

    …I’ve only ever been yours, Riri-chan.

    And yet, maybe the reason I don’t have the courage to tell her the truth is because I’m relying on the existence of Amatsuki Suzuna.


    96 Maybe I’m Being Tamed: Hinase Riri’s Side

    Suzuna is generally quiet and reserved.

    She dislikes trouble and avoids standing out.

    But there are two things that can suddenly trigger a dramatic change in her behavior.

    One is anything related to me.

    She suddenly started practicing volleyball alone, bit me when she got angry, and even went shopping at an unfamiliar store for my birthday present.

    She noticed the small cut on my finger that no one else did, and she even confessed her feelings to me.

    None of these are things the usual Suzuna would do; it’s a side of her she only shows me.

    That makes me feel special, and I’m happy about it.

    But I’m not the only trigger for her sudden bursts of activity.

    The other is anything related to Shindo Minato.

    Suzuna also acts strangely towards Shindo.

    She tried to teach his younger sister, Shindo Kokona, how to cook, organized a study session, and talked to him during the sports festival when I wasn’t around.

    More than anything, her attitude towards him is different.

    Suzuna, who usually shows no interest in anyone, is clearly interested in him.

    She told me it wasn’t romantic love, but she hasn’t revealed what it is.

    Suzuna is hiding something about Shindo.

    That much is clear.

    She just avoids the topic whenever I ask, refusing to answer directly.

    I didn’t mind at first.

    But now that we’re dating, I can’t overlook these subtle changes.

    I can’t stand the thought of her being interested in someone else besides me.

    I’m being childish.

    I know that.

    But I can’t help it.

    I just want Suzuna all to myself.

    ◇◇◇

    “Hey, Suzuna, help me study for the finals.”

    I asked Suzuna, linking arms with her as we walked home.

    Suzuna used to try to pull away immediately, but she’s become more accepting since we started dating.

    That makes me very happy.

    Suzuna’s arms are slender, her delicate frame seeming fragile.

    “Okay, but… where are we studying? The cafe?”

    “How about at home?”

    Neither of us has parents at home, and our relationship has changed, so there’s no need to go to the cafe every time.

    “…Ah, yeah, that’s fine.”

    Suzuna looked away.

    She has a habit of averting her gaze when she’s thinking about something.

    “Suzuna, are you thinking of something… strange?”

    “What do you mean, ‘strange’?”

    Her tone suddenly became curt.

    Her tone usually changes when I hit a nerve.

    “I know you well enough to tell, Suzuna.”

    I teased her, deliberately being vague.

    “You’re annoying, Riri-chan.”

    “Should I do it again?”

    “I’m going home alone.”

    “Ah, just kidding.”

    Suzuna uses strong words like “going home alone,” but she doesn’t actually let go of my arm.

    She probably doesn’t want to leave me, I think.

    I find that change cute.

    ◇◇◇

    We studied at Suzuna’s house.

    I’ve become used to this house, and being with Suzuna has become quite natural.

    Being together feels normal, and being apart feels strange.

    That’s the kind of relationship I wanted.

    And I’m wearing the necklace Suzuna gave me.

    Wanting to touch it, to feel a stronger connection to her, I unbuttoned my blouse.

    It felt cool against my skin.

    “…Riri-chan.”

    “Hmm? What?”

    Suzuna, sitting across from me at the low table, was giving me a sharp look.

    But she wasn’t making eye contact.

    “Why did you unbutton your blouse?”

    Ah, she was looking at my chest.

    “It’s stuffy, and I wanted to touch my necklace.”

    “…Hmm.”

    “Ah, did that make your heart race?”

    Suzuna’s gaze sharpened even further.

    “Of course not.”

    “It’s okay if it did.”

    And since she’s reacting so strongly to just one button undone, it’s not like she doesn’t feel anything.

    But Suzuna avoids that kind of communication.

    It’s like my birthday never happened.

    “It’s fine at home, but button it up when we’re outside.”

    She said reprovingly.

    “But if we’re not at school, it’s fine, isn’t it?”

    “It’s okay to show the necklace, but not your chest.”

    So she’s basically telling me to button up.

    “I was thinking… you’re saying that because you’re looking at my chest, aren’t you, Suzuna? You call me a pervert, but you’re thinking about that kind of thing too?”

    Since Suzuna always denies that kind of thing, she’ll probably deny this too.

    Then she won’t be able to complain about my clothes anymore.

    Because if she doesn’t care, there’s no reason for me not to do it.

    “…Is it bad if I am?”

    An unexpected answer.

    I didn’t think she’d admit it so readily.

    “Ah, hmm… so you think about that kind of thing too, Suzuna.”

    Her answer was so unexpected that I didn’t know how to react.

    “Of course I do. But I don’t want you to… show that side of you to anyone else. So don’t.”

    “…”

    “Well?”

    “Well, I guess… just the blouse is fine.”

    I have to button it up at school anyway.

    “And lengthen your skirt.”

    “No way, this is fine.”

    I understand the blouse, but…

    The skirt is an overreaction.

    It’s just fashion.

    “…You’re not listening, are you?”

    Suzuna suddenly stood up.

    She sat down next to me.

    And stared intently at my legs.

    “Suzuna?”

    “…Then I’ll do this.”

    Suzuna lowered her head and started biting my leg.

    “Ouch…”

    A sharp pain shot through my left thigh.

    I forgot since it’s been a while.

    Suzuna bites me when her emotions are in turmoil.

    I was about to stop her because it hurt when she looked up.

    “How about… here?”

    The bite mark was close to my knee.

    With the length of my skirt, it would be visible.

    “This… can be seen.”

    She’s always bitten places that could be hidden.

    “Then hide it. Lengthen your skirt.”

    “…You’d go this far…?”

    I think Suzuna is losing it.

    Biting my leg and leaving a mark in a visible place just to make me lengthen my skirt…

    That’s not normal behavior.

    “I will.”

    Suzuna touched my necklace.

    “This necklace binds your neck, and I can bind your legs by biting them. So I will.”

    “That’s… twisted.”

    Suzuna pouted, seemingly aware of it.

    “I know. But I want to do this.”

    “…I like that side of you, but sometimes, I want a normal expression of affection.”

    I know it’s wishful thinking.

    But I don’t think it would hurt to receive Suzuna’s straightforward love sometimes.

    “Normal…”

    “Yeah, normal.”

    I know it’s impossible for the twisted Suzuna-chan.

    But it would be nice if she’d say something straightforward like “cute” or “I like you” sometimes.

    Suzuna always has to have some kind of… twist.

    “…”

    Suzuna suddenly knelt down and straddled me.

    “Riri-chan.”

    “What? Are you going to bite my face next?— Hey!”

    She pulled me closer.

    Thump, thump, thump The sound of my heartbeat.

    And Suzuna’s gentle scent filled my nostrils.

    She hugged me, and I buried my face in her chest.

    “…Like this?”

    Her voice trailed off, lacking confidence.

    “Ah… yeah.”

    Apparently, I’m the type who melts at the slightest bit of affection from Suzuna.

    I’m surprised by how easily swayed I am.

  • I’m a Childhood Friend, and I Want to Remain a Supporting Character, but for Some Reason I Became the Heroine’s Love Interest 93-94

    93 A Careless Person

    It’s another school day.

    I’m meeting up with Riri-chan to walk to school, but I can’t stop fidgeting, thinking about yesterday.

    After a night of reflection, I feel like I did something incredibly reckless.

    It’s like… she saw a side of me I never show anyone, and yet, we’re back to our normal routine.

    It feels strange to go about my daily life with someone who knows my… other side…

    “Good morning, Suzuuu-na!”

    Yeah.

    It seems like I’m the only one feeling sentimental.

    She’s as cheerful as ever, maybe even more so than usual.

    Her skin looks… radiant.

    “G-Good morning… Riri-chan. You seem more energetic than usual today.”

    “Fufufu… can you tell?”

    I can tell without her saying anything.

    Her glamorous aura is even more pronounced than usual.

    “Look at this.”

    Riri-chan bent down and showed me her chest.

    I braced myself, wondering what she was showing me so early in the morning, and then I noticed something sparkling around her neck.

    “A necklace…?”

    “Yeah, the birthday present you gave me, Suzuna. I’m wearing it.”

    “Is that why you’re so cheerful?”

    “Of course. This way, I feel like you’re always watching over me, Suzuna.”

    Riri-chan smiled brightly.

    S-So that’s why…

    Well, I’m happy. Really happy.

    But I thought it was because of… what we did yesterday…

    I started to feel embarrassed, wondering if I’m the pervert.

    “Hmm? Were you thinking of something else?”

    As always, Riri-chan didn’t miss my subtle change in expression.

    “I wasn’t.”

    “You had a ‘was it the present?’ look on your face.”

    “I didn’t.”

    She’s spot on.

    Riri-chan’s intuition at times like these is so sharp that it sends chills down my spine.

    “I also liked your cute reaction yesterday, Suzuna.”

    She knows, and she’s moving closer.

    As Riri-chan leaned forward to look at my face, her neckline dipped, revealing her chest along with the necklace.

    It was quite a sight, and I felt uncomfortable.

    “Riri-chan, I’ve been meaning to ask…”

    If this continues, she’ll keep teasing me until we get to school.

    I decided to interrupt her and make her listen to me.

    “Hmm, I’ll listen, but if you’re changing the subject because you’re embarrassed, I’ll ignore you.”

    What’s that supposed to mean?

    But it’s scary how she can see right through me.

    “Aren’t the buttons of your blouse… undone a bit too much?”

    “…What do you mean?”

    “It’s fine that you want to show off the necklace, but even so, it’s too open. I can almost see your chest.”

    If she bends down, her underwear will definitely be visible.

    “Eh, but I’m usually careful. And no one really cares.”

    Riri-chan replied casually.

    But I didn’t like her reaction.

    “No, it’s visible.”

    “I’m only careless around you, Suzuna. I’m careful at school, especially around boys, so it’s fine.”

    She replied nonchalantly, as if I’m worrying too much.

    She’s not listening to me at all.

    I don’t like that.

    Being brushed off like this only made me angrier.

    “No, it’s not fine. Even without doing anything, your blouse is too open, you’re showing too much skin.”

    “But it’s tight if I button it up.”

    “Then button up just one more. You can still see the necklace.”

    “No, it’ll slightly cover it. And it won’t… stand out.”

    She’s being stubborn.

    She usually listens to me.

    But when it comes to clothes, she suddenly becomes uncooperative.

    I don’t want to nag her about her fashion choices, but…

    “It’s not about standing out or not. I’m saying it’s not good that your chest is visible.”

    “Why are you saying this now? You’ve never said that before, Suzuna.”

    …Hmm.

    It’s true that I haven’t said that before.

    I thought she was… open, but I never thought about making her button up.

    But if you ask me why I want her to now, I have an answer.

    “It’s different now. You’re mine, Riri-chan, so don’t dress so carelessly.”

    That’s right.

    Since Riri-chan is dating me, she shouldn’t show any vulnerability to anyone else.

    It’s not good to have her blouse unbuttoned or to expose her legs with a short skirt.

    It’s wrong for anyone else to see Riri-chan’s skin.

    “O-Oh…”

    Riri-chan looked like she had been struck by lightning.

    Did my message get through, even a little?

    “And that skirt is also no good. Why are you showing so much leg?”

    “Well, it’s not like I’m… showing them… it’s… fashion.”

    “That’s why I’m saying it’s not good! People will look!”

    “Hmm… but it… boosts my mood.”

    She’s still saying that after all this?

    “That’s why boys stare at you! You’re too careless, Riri-chan, you have no sense of danger!”

    “Well… I don’t know about that…”

    “…Seriously…”

    I’m getting more and more irritated.

    Riri-chan’s lack of awareness, the way she’s not listening to me…

    She simply doesn’t understand how I feel.

    “You’re so stubborn, Riri-chan.”

    I was getting seriously angry.

    I undid two buttons of my own blouse.

    I also rolled up my skirt.

    It was clumsy and awkward since I’ve never done this before, but…

    Anyway, my skirt was now about as short as Riri-chan’s.

    “S-Suzuna…?!”

    “How would you feel if I went to school like this, Riri-chan?”

    “…N-No! That’s indecent!”

    You’re one to talk!

    Well, that’s what I wanted her to say.

    “Right? Now you understand how I feel. So stop it, Riri-chan.”

    “W-Well… I understand what you mean, but… it’s also about… image.”

    “…Image?”

    “I’m already… that kind of person, so it doesn’t feel out of place, and I don’t think many people care. But you’re different, Suzuna. If a serious girl like you suddenly dresses like this, the gap makes it… sexy.”

    “…Is that how it works?”

    “Look for yourself.”

    We happened to pass by a building with reflective windows, and I could see my reflection.

    It definitely looked strange.

    “So, let’s fix this.”

    “Ah, okay…”

    Riri-chan buttoned my blouse and unrolled my skirt.

    “There, there, now you’re back to your usual self, Suzuna.”

    Riri-chan seemed more relieved than I was.

    “So, Riri-chan, will you… dress normally?”

    “Hmm… I’ll think about it.”

    That’s what someone who’s not going to do it would say.

    But I said what I wanted to say, so I feel a little better.

    “But I’m happy that you were worried about me, Suzuna.”

    “Of course I was. You’re beautiful and cute, Riri-chan, so be more aware of that.”

    “Hmm… ahaha… I don’t know how to react to that.”

    Riri-chan scratched her cheek, looking truly troubled.

    Her face also seemed slightly red.

    I’m starting to feel embarrassed, like I said too much.

    “Suzuna, you can dress like that when we have a date at home.”

    “Why?”

    “Eh…? Ehehe.”

    Her laugh suddenly sounded suggestive.

    “…I won’t.”

    She really doesn’t understand.


    94 Secrets

    “—Fufu.”

    As we walked down the hallway after arriving at school, Riri-chan, next to me, was humming cheerfully.

    I was feeling down about the upcoming classes, so I wondered what she found so amusing.

    “You seem to be in a good mood.”

    “Yeah, I am. Thanks to this.”

    Riri-chan touched the necklace at her neckline, showing it off.

    I’m happy that she likes it, but I just saw it, so is there a need to show it off again?

    “Put it away.”

    “Cold.”

    “Don’t emphasize your chest like that.”

    “Not this again.”

    Riri-chan’s expression turned sullen.

    It seems like even she doesn’t like being told what to do with her appearance.

    “It’s not good to show it off like that…”

    “Hinase-san, what is that?”

    Speak of the devil.

    Kanaori Reika stood before us, her eyes narrowed.

    “Ugh… Kanaori, so early in the morning…”

    “I don’t recall giving you any reason to make that face. More importantly, what is that ornament around your neck?”

    Riri-chan instinctively twisted her body to hide her neckline.

    Too late, I think.

    “I-It’s nothing.”

    “Wearing metal accessories is prohibited at school.”

    Kanaori-san approached Riri-chan with a stern expression and reached for her neck.

    “Hey, don’t touch me!”

    Riri-chan brushed her hand away.

    “I’m confiscating it. Hand it over.”

    Riri-chan continued to hide her neckline, covering it with her own hand.

    She wouldn’t give in.

    “Why should I give it to you?”

    “I’ll hand it over to your homeroom teacher.”

    “Then I’ll give it to them myself. You can leave.”

    “Do you think I’d believe that?”

    Kanaori-san’s gaze sharpened, and her argument was valid.

    I don’t think Riri-chan has any room for rebuttal…

    “…Fine, fine, I understand. I’ll give it to you.”

    Riri-chan let go of the hand she was using to cover her neck, and something shiny flew through the air.

    “H-How dare you throw it! That’s indecent!”

    Kanaori-san hurriedly caught it.

    There was a clinking sound.

    “There. I’m leaving now.”

    Riri-chan brushed past Kanaori-san.

    “…W-Wait, Riri-chan.”

    Kanaori-san didn’t stop her, so it must have been the necklace she threw.

    …But honestly, I’m feeling conflicted.

    “Honestly, that girl… when will she ever follow the rules?”

    I bowed my head to Kanaori-san, who was clicking her tongue, and then I chased after Riri-chan.

    ◇◇◇

    “Riri-chan.”

    I caught up to Riri-chan, who was walking briskly.

    It’s hard to keep up with her when she’s serious about walking fast.

    “Ah, Suzuna. She’s not coming, is she?”

    Riri-chan looked around nervously.

    She seems to be very wary of Kanaori-san.

    “She’s not. More importantly, what are we going to do about that?”

    It’s the worst that my present, of all things, was confiscated.

    “Ah, it’s fine. I’ll get it back eventually.”

    It’s true that it won’t be disposed of even if it’s confiscated.

    She’ll probably get it back eventually.

    But that’s not the issue.

    “But you didn’t have to treat it like that, did you?”

    She gave up too easily.

    She just threw it.

    And she’s saying it’s fine because she’ll get it back.

    I thought she’d treasure it, so I’m shocked by how carelessly she treated it.

    I’m not saying she has to treat it like a family heirloom, but I don’t want her to be so careless with it either.

    “Well, it’s mine after all.”

    “…”

    That ticked me off.

    It’s true that it’s hers since it was a present.

    But that’s not what presents are about, is it?

    She can think that, but I don’t want her to say it or act like it.

    My head started to boil.

    “I see.”

    I brushed past Riri-chan, annoyed.

    I don’t want to think about this anymore, or I might say something I’ll regret.

    I’ll go back to my seat in the classroom and calm down.

    “Suzuna? What’s wrong all of a sudden?”

    Riri-chan followed me.

    What is she thinking, following me like this?

    “It’s nothing.”

    “You’re suddenly angry.”

    Of course, I am. Anyone would be.

    “I just realized you’re insensitive, Riri-chan, so I don’t want to talk to you anymore.”

    I was trying to keep quiet, but my mouth moved when Riri-chan asked.

    I blurted out my feelings.

    “Why?”

    That’s what makes you insensitive.

    I thought you were more considerate.

    “Wait a minute.”

    She grabbed my hand from behind.

    Riri-chan is faster and stronger than me, so it’s difficult for me to escape if she seriously chases after me.

    But that’s not the issue here.

    “Suzuna, are you even listening to me?”

    What a ridiculous thing to say after I’ve already made my judgment after listening to her.

    “I get it. You’re the type of person who gives up on my presents, throws them away, and forgets about them, aren’t you, Riri-chan?”

    “No, that’s not what I—”

    “You were wearing it, saying, ‘This way, I feel like you’re always watching over me, Suzuna,’ and the next moment, you just tossed it aside.”

    I can’t trust someone like that’s words.

    “You’ll just throw me away too when it’s convenient, won’t you? Fine, then just leave me alone.”

    I should just throw her away like the necklace.

    She thinks I’ll come back eventually, right?

    I’ll show her that it’s not that simple.

    “Seriously, you’re so quick to jump to conclusions, Suzuna.”

    She suddenly pulled my wrist and pressed my face against her chest.

    “Hey, stop it!”

    “There, there, calm down, Suzuna.”

    “Don’t treat me like a horse!”

    “You’re like an animal when you’re excited, Suzuna.”

    What’s that supposed to mean?

    I don’t want to be treated like that by such an insensitive person.

    “Look at this.”

    She loosened her grip on my head, and my eyes fell on her neckline.

    My necklace was sparkling there.

    “…Huh?”

    “I’ve been hiding it this whole time.”

    It’s true that she was covering her neck and twisting her body so Kanaori-san wouldn’t see it.

    “…Then what did you give Kanaori-san?”

    “Something I had with me. I had it in my bag, just in case, and I threw it at her in the heat of the moment.”

    …What’s that supposed to mean?

    “So you gave Kanaori-san a different necklace?”

    “Yeah, that’s why I wanted to leave quickly before she noticed. This kind of thing happens often, so I’m prepared. I didn’t think she’d actually confiscate it, though.”

    So she gave up on it easily, threw it, and didn’t care because it was her own necklace.

    “…”

    “See? Don’t worry. I’ll treasure the one you gave me, Suzuna.”

    She patted my head.

    “Don’t treat me like a child!”

    “But you are one. You get angry easily and stop listening.”

    She’s grinning.

    She’s definitely looking down on me.

    “Just take it off or hide it. What if she confiscates it again?”

    “Ah… yeah, okay.”

    Riri-chan reluctantly buttoned up one more button.

    You could still see it if you looked closely, but it wasn’t obvious at first glance.

    “Is this okay?”

    “Ah, yeah…”

    She was so against it earlier.

    It’s strange that she’s suddenly listening to me.

    “…Really?”

    “You get angry easily when it comes to me, Suzuna. But you’re cute, so I’ll forgive you.”

    And she patted my head again.

    “Stop treating me like a child!”

    I brushed her hand away.

    “That’s what makes you a child. Well, I don’t mind since it’s a side of you you only show me.”

    …Hmm.

    It’s annoying to be treated like a child, but…

    I’ll let it slide since my present made her cover up her exposed chest.