Yuu 481-485 (Patreon)

Title: Sisters’ War (12)

In front of the statue at Chiba Station’s North Exit.

A striking young man and woman locked eyes. After a few seconds of awkward silence, they sighed in unison to break the tension.

“What’s she planning…”

“No need to think too hard to know, right?”

They exchanged glances and couldn’t help but smile again.

They’d only just met moments ago when Yuigahama sent the message, as if she’d timed it perfectly.

Clearly, she must have already arrived at the meeting spot. She was probably nearby, spying on their movements.

If they really wanted to find her, they could likely catch her within five minutes… though neither of them would go out of their way to do so.

After all, this was Yuigahama’s decision.

If nothing was amiss, that silly dango girl had likely decided to follow them like this, acting as a spectator until the date ended, hoping they’d spark some romance during it.

If they’d settled on a three-person outing, that’d be fine. They could reasonably catch the last-minute runaway. No one was allowed to skip out so casually.

But the most important part of this date was to advance the Ideal Boyfriend task and warm up the relationship between Yuu and Yukino—there shouldn’t be anyone else involved.

Perhaps considering this, Yuigahama didn’t say anything and abruptly backed out like this.

“That idiot, why not just say it outright? Why play a surprise like this…”

Understanding her good intentions, Yuu couldn’t help but grumble. He focused his mind slightly, sensing a faint gaze spying on them.

(Not too strong. Is it through a phone lens?)

(This girl even knows a bit of counter-surveillance techniques. That’s actually impressive…)

Sighing inwardly, Yuu didn’t actively search for the source of the gaze. Instead, he looked at Yukino.

Yukino pressed her forehead as if she had a headache, saying helplessly, “Yuigahama-san doing something like this… somehow, it doesn’t surprise me at all.”

“So, should we catch her?”

“…Forget it. Even if we catch her now, she’ll find an excuse to slip away midway. Like her stomach suddenly hurting again.”

To some extent, Yukino knew Yuigahama well.

So, she hesitated briefly, glancing into Yuu’s eyes. After a few seconds, she looked away again, saying as if nothing happened:

“Let’s proceed as a pair for now, as she wishes… Hah, I made a fun plan for the three of us. Now I have to cancel it all.”

Yuu asked curiously, “What plan do you need to play at an amusement park all day? Don’t you just play whatever you see…”

As soon as he spoke, the atmosphere shifted.

The initially odd expression vanished. Yukino stared at him with cold, clear eyes, her slender arms crossed over her chest. She scolded him like a teacher lecturing a naughty child:

“Naive. Do you think Disneyland is small? Factor in queue times and lunch breaks—you might not even finish one round of the park by closing! Plus, visiting the park’s exclusive shops and taking photos with mascots takes time too…”

“Stop, I get it!”

Yuu had no intention of listening to How to Conquer Disneyland in the Shortest Time from Start to Finish, no matter how melodious her voice was.

The one time he went with Haruno, though he’d researched the ride routes beforehand, he didn’t mind replaying facilities Haruno found fun and skipping boring ones.

The most important thing when going out was to have fun—and Yukino’s long speech clearly didn’t fall into that category.

Yuu said obediently, “Anyway, it’ll take time to get to Disneyland by train. We should have time to plan a two-person date on the way. I’m not familiar with the place. I’ll follow your lead completely.”

“Mm, follow me with confidence.” Yukino brushed her graphite-like black hair over her shoulder, lifting her beautifully curved chin. She said calmly and proudly, “My knowledge of Disneyland is above most visitors.”

“Yeah, yeah, I can feel your love for it… Don’t tell me you have an annual pass too? You go every year until even the mouse mascot knows you.” Yuu smirked casually.

“…”

(Did I actually guess right?)

“Seriously?” Seeing her suddenly fall silent, Yuu blinked in surprise, saying sincerely, “Having such a hobby makes you pretty adorable.”

For context, Yukino was used to it.

No matter what Yuu said or did, she was accustomed to his flirtatious personality and wouldn’t easily blush, get shy, or give the reactions of an innocent girl anymore.

She had to remember she was out on a date with him to make Yuu her ideal boyfriend—not to be a foolish girlfriend easily toyed with, letting her emotions dance to his tune.

Advising herself inwardly, Yukino took a slow breath and turned halfway.

Fiddling with the hair on her chest, she explained in a steady tone, “It’s not about hobbies. My parents took us to Disneyland once a year. With such an old habit, isn’t it normal to have an annual pass?”

Yuu nodded understandingly. “A habit forced by your parents… So, you don’t actually like Disneyland?”

Yukino frowned slightly, resisting the urge to retort sharply. She still answered calmly, “It wasn’t forced, and I don’t hate it.”

“Alright, I know where you’re like me.” Yuu suddenly smiled, mimicking her crossed-arm pose. He said with a touch of sentimentality, “Since you don’t want to lie, when you don’t want to tell the truth, you always give vague answers.”

As if unwilling to be compared to him, Yukino shot him a cold, dissatisfied look. “I’m different from you.”

“True.” Yuu corrected himself obediently. “You’re way more awkward than me.”

Yukino was too lazy to bother with him. She walked straight toward the bustling station.

Perhaps only this Yuki Onna could radiate a chill from her back.

Yuu shrugged nonchalantly, stepping forward to follow her.

“Did you bring a mask?”

“Why bring one if I’m not sick?”

“For disguise! Even if there’s no flu now, naturally attention-grabbing handsome guys and beautiful girls like us will get approached easily if we walk without masks.”

Yukino turned, giving a faint smile as if impressed. “Though it’s true, I don’t have the thick skin to say something like that so naturally.”

Yuu didn’t care at all. “Most importantly, it reduces the chance of being spotted by someone we know.”

“…”

After thinking for a moment, Yukino was convinced.

She looked left and right, not seeing a pharmacy nearby. Just as she was about to say she’d buy a mask at the station later, a packaged bag was handed to her.

“Spare. Never opened. Completely clean.”

“Thanks.” Yukino took the mask without refusing, tucking her beautiful hair behind her ear. She hooked the white ear loops behind her ears, looking at him, whose face was also half-covered.

“Do you prepare this thoroughly when dating Yuigahama-san too?”

“Mm… Pretty much.” Yuu thought for a moment, choosing not to tell her he’d never actually gone on a proper date with Yuigahama to avoid her overthinking again. “It’s my habit. Before doing anything, I think about what might happen and prepare for it.”

“…Sounds exhausting.”

They entered the station, passing through the ticket gates with the crowd. They stood side by side on the platform, waiting for the train.

Yukino glanced at his bag, her eyes—brighter and clearer above the mask—showing curiosity. “Can I see what’s in your bag?”

Yuu was about to say yes when he suddenly remembered something, silently swallowing his words. He looked casually at the train tracks.

“Nothing much. Just tissues, wet wipes, small medical supplies, and other emergency stuff. Nothing interesting.”

Even with a 1% chance of being found out, he wouldn’t let Yukino rummage through his bag.

After all, there were adult reasons inside.

As a responsible man, after confirming his relationship with Yuigahama and hearing her say she wanted to do that, Yuu, who was good at thinking ahead, naturally kept a round rubber charm in his wallet and bag for emergencies.

Not to mention, this morning he’d already tasted the bitter fruit of overflowing energy. He had to face the reality that some of his dirty desires were erupting like a volcano…

If he couldn’t resist tasting the forbidden fruit after the date, this charm could show his care as a boyfriend!

Yuu had once felt proud of his thoughtfulness.

Now, he felt equal regret.

…Thankfully, Yukino wasn’t the type to forcibly search someone’s bag.

To avoid Yukino getting the wrong idea, Yuu would hide it for now and toss both charms in the bathroom later.

Seeing the girl beside him look slightly confused but not dwelling on it, Yuu secretly sighed in relief. He mourned for one second the two unopened Durex that would end up in the trash from his bag.

Good thing he’d bought a full box and hidden it at home. Losing two wasn’t a big deal.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Tenkuji Residence.

The older brother had left. The house was silent.

Sora, looking sleepy, suddenly snapped fully awake passing her brother’s room.

Her body stopped swaying. Her strength returned. A sharp, cold glint flashed in her clear, bright eyes.

“Come to think of it, it’s been a while since I adventured into Yuu’s room…”

Muttering to herself, the silver-haired girl reached for the doorknob of a room not hers.

The gray cat at her feet only watched from the side. Yukinon yawned as if bored, seemingly uninterested in stopping her little master’s odd behavior.

“The door’s locked?”

Sora’s eyes widened in disbelief. She twisted the knob a few more times, even ramming her shoulder into the door twice. Only then did she hurriedly run back to her own room.

When she returned to Yuu’s door, the black rabbit plushie in her hand had turned into a key. She skillfully inserted it into the lock, twisting hard.

“…When?!”

The key failed to turn and fell to the floor. The girl stared at the door in disbelief, stumbling back two steps and collapsing onto the ground.

Then, she was furious.

“That damn Yuu, how dare he change his room’s lock without telling me?!”

Outrageous! How dare he do this!

Wasn’t it normal for a little sister to want to enter her big brother’s room to play and do things others shouldn’t see? Why go so far as to change the lock to stop her!

He’s a criminal! This deserves a life sentence in the little sister’s court!

“Damn it! Yuu, you big idiot, huge idiot, massive idiot—!!”

“Meow~”

Yukinon narrowed her cat eyes, slowly licking her paw while watching her little master roll around in the hallway, swinging her fists wildly and shouting in an embarrassing pose.

This is a human?

Better to stay an elegant, noble cat. At least she didn’t have to be like her little master, emotionally unstable for twenty-nine out of thirty days…

And her heat cycle was awfully long too.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Yukinoshita Residence.

While diligently working on her craft, Haruno yawned, occasionally glancing at the monitor. She looked sleepily at the small ornament in her hand.

Though she seemed drowsy, her hands moved steadily and quickly, performing each step perfectly. No one could find fault with her work.

About half an hour later, she cut the excess thread, holding it up to the light and examining it for a long time. Only then did she sigh in relief, showing a satisfied, happy smile.

“Perfect! Way prettier than the one he gave… Of course, I’m the best~”

Humming a cheerful tune unconsciously, Haruno held it up high, letting the colorful beads shine brightly into her eyes. After admiring and reminiscing briefly, her hand slowly passed through the circular band.

Before wearing it on her wrist, Haruno suddenly paused, frowning. She thought for a moment, then lowered her hand, sighing softly.

“I have to let Yuu-chan put it on himself… If he doesn’t put it on for me, this thing’s meaningless no matter how pretty.”

Her eyes calmed, turning cold and emotionless.

Haruno sat upright, placing the handmade beaded bracelet into a small, custom-ordered box. Then she carefully tucked it into her bag.

Like the wooden comb from the past, she wouldn’t feel at ease without carrying it everywhere.

“Mm, everything’s ready. All set, just waiting for the east wind… So, when should I tell him his feelings are all messed up~”

She muttered in a cheerful tone, but her lips didn’t curve at all.

Haruno stood, stretching her body, loosening her stiff joints and fingers. Just as she prepared to go downstairs to the bathroom.

Movement on the screen caught her attention.

“This…”

She stood frozen, watching the figure on the monitor leave. After pondering with a furrowed brow for a long time.

Haruno suddenly smiled, cracking her neck. A faint murderous intent flickered between her brows and eyes.

“What a coincidence… Looks like even the gods can’t wait to see a good show start.”

Her mind raced like lightning. Without hesitation, she shed her clothes, heading to the closet to grab the outfit she had in mind.

She changed and applied makeup at top speed, even forgetting the bathroom. Haruno shut down the computer, grabbed her bag and necessary tools, and strode out of the room.

“Yukino-chan, Yuu-chan… Tsk, even Masuzu-chan’s trailing behind.”

“No matter. I hope you all can handle the surprise I’m giving you…”


-

Title: Sisters’ War (13)

There was one thing that always bothered Yukino.

—What should an ideal boyfriend look like in her heart?

Humble and polite? Gentle and loyal?

If so, that was the end of it.

After all, Yuu didn’t fit any of those qualities. Changing his personality now was unrealistic. If he didn’t meet her standards, the task was essentially doomed to fail.

For the umpteenth time, Yukino sighed inwardly.

(…The words she said to him in the kitchen back then were far too hasty.)

Dating without the intention of marriage was frivolous. For Yukino, a boyfriend was essentially a future husband. She’d only know if the other person was good after meeting them and spending a long time together. Only after confirming their personalities could blend seamlessly would she fully entrust her life to them.

No matter what others thought, Yukino had high, uncompromising standards for love.

…Precisely because there was no compromise, she distinguished things clearly.

Yuu wasn’t a real boyfriend. Their relationship stemmed only from a request.

This was the part that truly troubled Yukino.

“Even if I don’t think about the ideal boyfriend standards for now… How do I fall in love with a boyfriend who won’t become a husband in the future?”

This unclear problem, with no one to provide an answer, now lay bare before her, a heavy burden on her heart.

After meeting him, her mind was entirely occupied with what to do next. She was a bit anxious, a bit flustered—much like an innocent girl on her first date.

Regarding this, Yukino felt deeply unwilling—yesterday, they both laughed at her for being like this.

As for the plan for how they’d navigate the amusement park?

That sort of thing was sorted out within five minutes of boarding the train. No need to worry at all.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

The train carriage swayed slightly. Passengers either closed their eyes to rest or scrolled through their phones, trying their best not to make noise and disturb the strangers around them.

Though not overly crowded, finding a seat on a weekend train was clearly a foolish dream.

The two stood side by side. The slight swaying didn’t make their shoulders brush faintly. They were separated by an odd distance.

Her slender, pale fingers gripped the strap. Yukino suddenly sighed, snapping out of the myriad thoughts in her mind.

She quietly raised her eyes, glancing at the handsome boy half a head taller than her.

“What’s up?”

With just one glance, Yuu lowered his gaze, and their eyes met.

His dark eyes were deep and clear, yet far warmer than the bleak winter scenery outside the window.

Yukino shook her head slowly, shifting her gaze to the passing scenery she’d just seen.

(I don’t know if this guy’s sensitive to stares or if he’s always watching my movements… His reaction’s too quick.)

“Just thinking, if we’re going on a date to an amusement park… Should we do something special?”

There was no shame in admitting an unknown problem and seeking answers from others.

Asking someone less capable than her about things she didn’t know was Yukino’s cleverness.

The slight embarrassment didn’t stop her from making the right choice.

“Something special… Oh, I get it.”

Yuu thought for a moment, then, as if realizing something, grabbed her small hand hanging by her side.

Cool, soft. Like a chilled marshmallow. When gently squeezed, it clung to his hand, making him reluctant to let go.

Such a perfect touch.

“Going to an amusement park like a couple. You’re thinking if this can speed up the task’s progress, right?” Yuu asked as if confirming, a slight smile in his eyes.

[Ding!]
[Congratulations to the host. You have received a reward: Painting (Proficient Level).]

Whether progress increased or not, someone’s heartbeat sped up—wait, this shouldn’t count as flirting, right?

Feeling the softness in his hand, Yuu suddenly felt the word “Jerk” flashing above his head.

It must be an illusion.

“…”

The moment his hand grasped hers, her mind went completely blank.

Yukino froze in place. Her hand gripping the strap unconsciously tightened. Beneath her clear, translucent skin, the delicate blue veins, like works of art, were vividly visible.

Instinctively, she wanted to pull her hand away, but after a moment’s hesitation, she forcibly suppressed the urge.

It had nothing to do with embarrassment. It was purely because she wasn’t mentally prepared, startled by the sudden move.

Yukino mentally rebuilt herself at top speed, calming down. Don’t get nervous like when they linked fingers yesterday.

It’s just holding hands. No big deal!

Outwardly, she looked as calm as ever. In reality, half her body didn’t dare move freely, as if she’d surrendered that arm.

She took a deep breath, ignoring her warming face, and spoke in a cold voice:

“That was my intention. But before doing it, I think you should ask my opinion first.”

“I thought that’d make you more embarrassed.”

“How would you know?”

“Try it, and you’ll see.”

Suppressing the hard-to-control curve of his lips, Yuu suddenly let go of her hand, turning to face her. With a serious expression, he asked:

“Yukinoshita, may I hold your hand?”

“…”

The effect was remarkable.

Or rather, the impact of saying such words with a serious face and affectionate tone reached a point where it completely calmed her.

“I don’t mind. It’s just a request. Do what you want.”

In the end, Yukino spoke coldly with a resigned tone, her entire being as still as an iceberg.

She awkwardly turned her head to the side. Yuu could only see her glossy, soft black hair and the red base of her ear peeking through it.

“Though it feels a bit wrong to say as the main culprit, Yukinoshita, you need to start getting used to… interacting like this.”

Yet Yuu didn’t show a gleeful, drama-watching smile. Instead, he sighed with a complex expression. “After all, being your ideal boyfriend is, in other words, being someone you like…”

“Are you saying, to complete this request, I have to make myself like you?”

Frowning tightly, Yukino cut him off with a displeased expression, her reaction intense for no clear reason. “I think you’re misunderstanding something. Ideal is ideal. That doesn’t mean I’ll get flustered over it and truly see you as a boyfriend…”

“I think you’re misunderstanding something too.”

Yuu wasn’t in the habit of letting her vent her anger fully. He cut her off directly. “I’m not saying I have to make you like me. But during this process, I’ll treat you like a lover as much as possible… I hope you’re mentally prepared. Don’t resist too much. Just interact with me as usual.”

“Heh… Tenkuji-kun, you’re really confident in your charm.” Like a blooming snow lotus, the pure and adorable young girl gave a cold smile.

If she didn’t need to hold the strap, she’d probably have her arms crossed now, scoffing at him with her usual dismissive posture.

In this suddenly sour atmosphere, Yuu observed her expression and suddenly smiled.

“Yeah, I’m very confident.”

Yukino raised an eyebrow slightly.

Yuu smiled and said, “I’m very confident in your charm and mine… If one day you like me, I might end up liking you too.”

“Don’t ask why. I just have that hunch.”

“You…?”

Her soft, pink lips parted in surprise. Yukino stared into his eyes, shocked, almost instantly realizing he spoke those words sincerely from his heart.

But Yuu had no intention of explaining. Instead, he shifted his gaze back to the distant scenery whizzing by outside the window as the train moved. He said slowly:

“If you really don’t like it, I’ll respect your opinion and keep an appropriate distance… Just don’t feel too pressured or overthink Yui’s words. Interacting naturally as usual is what suits us best.”

“What suits… us?”

Lowering her head thoughtfully, Yukino quietly digested his words. Not sure what she was thinking, the forced coldness on her face slowly melted.

“Right!”

His tone was casual, as if greeting a bird flashing by. “If there were no request, if Yui and I weren’t a couple, if we didn’t bicker over nothing daily in the Service Club… Would you still care about how to interact with me?”

“…”

Her long eyelashes lowered. Listening to his voice, Yukino’s expression gradually grew dazed.

Images formed from possibilities took shape in her mind. Each scene unconsciously slowed her breathing. She walked through her imagination with focus and calm, not even noticing a strand of hair clinging to the corner of her lips.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Sunset. The clubroom with just the two of them.

Noisy crows, slightly chilly air, and spirited shouts from the sports clubs.

Flipping a book’s pages, Yukino scrolled through her phone. They casually debated trivial matters.

Occasionally looking up, they caught each other’s eyes, sharing competitive yet happy smiles, accustomed to each other’s gazes.

When it was time, they packed up simultaneously, closing the door, windows, and lights together. They left the clubroom bickering.

Perhaps caught up in the mood, or maybe by chance, their shoulders brushed. Their hands held unconsciously. At some point, looking at the seemingly endless road, she could tell his expression just from the warmth of his palm.

Thinking of nothing. Worrying about nothing. No need to say anything.

Just comfortable and natural like that. Yukino walked with him from sunset to a twinkling galaxy.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“…Really.”

The train still swayed. The station announcement played as the train gradually slowed.

With a barely audible sigh, Yukino lifted her head, tucking the beautiful hair on her cheek behind her ear. She smiled as if exasperated.

“I get it now—what kind of sweet talk you use to charm girls normally.”

The corners of her lips curved slightly, her eyes clear and bright.

The wavering gaze had vanished. She looked straight at Yuu’s side profile, as if she’d made a certain decision.

“Sweet talk?”

Yuu pouted, sneering. “If telling the truth counts as sweet talk, there wouldn’t be so many jerks lying about feelings in this world.”

“There are plenty of jerks who don’t lie about feelings too.” Yukino smiled teasingly, her words loaded with meaning.

Yuu shrugged as if it had nothing to do with him.

“Well, that’s not me.”

Honestly, no one was more loyal than him. He wouldn’t be able to continue the task if he didn’t let go of his feelings.

Even now, he was very proud of himself.

Unfortunately, the current situation didn’t seem to go his way.

With Yuigahama already there, if he fell for Yukino, the target, his so-called loyalty and resolve would be a mere joke.

On the fourth task, his thoughts and actions were already at odds.

Even so, Yuu didn’t want to lie to himself or her.

That he might one day like Yukino—he had to admit it.

Because the system was adept at toying with his feelings, it seemed to only want to see him forced to part with someone he loved.

…It had even recorded it specifically.

This was the part that truly troubled Yuu.

(If I can’t complete the system’s task without falling in love with Yukinoshita, what should I do?)

(Do I have to not only act but also, in my heart, be unfaithful and love two people at once?)

…Yuu couldn’t find an answer to this question for now.

That’s why he said to Yukino:

“Just interact with me as usual. Don’t worry too much about this date.”

Meanwhile, Yuu would actively fall in love with her, as Yuigahama wished. He’d strive hard for his own goal.

Finding the path he should take amidst contradictions—that was the resolve Yuu made today.

The train slowly stopped. The doors slid open amid the announcement.

No crowded shoving, accidental touches, or manga-style car-don scenes. They smoothly disembarked with the crowd, heading toward Disneyland per the map.

Actually, there was no need for a map. Most people getting off at this station flocked toward Disneyland’s entrance, which was very close. Right after exiting, they could see the cluster of tall, luxurious buildings. The shadows of a skyscraper, drop tower, and pirate ship loomed in the distance. A roller coaster zoomed through the air, accompanied by screams.

Yuu could sense the girl beside him was excited. Yukino seemed eager to rush in and play to her heart’s content.

(Her sparkling eyes are like a seven- or eight-year-old’s—the only difference is she’s quieter, trying hard to hide her inner excitement through her movements.)

Yuu looked at her with slight amusement, suddenly asking, “By the way, I’ll call you by your first name all day. That’s okay, right?”

As if she didn’t care about the issue, Yukino didn’t turn, speeding up her steps and urging, “Don’t keep asking about trivial things like this. Hurry up! We’ll enter through the annual passholder gate. No need to queue with others.”

“Okay, okay, okay~” Yuu shrugged, matching her pace. “So, will you call me by my name, Yukino?”

“Later. I don’t think it’s necessary.”

(She really doesn’t care?)

Hearing the indifference in her tone, Yuu was slightly surprised. But seeing the system notification pop up, he couldn’t help smiling again.

[Ding!]
[Congratulations to the host. You have received a reward: Disneyland Annual Pass (Permanent).]

Though it was a small thing, being called by her name still made her a bit happy.

Yukino was adorable with her usual innocence.

-

Title: Sisters’ War (14)

Yuu could sense someone following them.

However, with so many people around and knowing who the little tail was, he was too lazy to turn and confirm. He and Yukino entered the amusement park as if nothing was amiss.

The park had only recently opened in the morning, but it was already livelier than when he came with Haruno in the afternoon last time. There were both domestic and international tourists.

Around them, speakers played cheerful background music. Mascots in animal costumes handed out pamphlets, held balloons, struck signature poses, and took photos with children.

Looking further, many rides already had queues forming. Occasionally, Doppler-effect screams pierced the blue sky, sounding distant in the cold season.

“…Really brings back memories.”

Yukino unconsciously slowed her steps, sighing with a hint of sentimentality. Looking at the surroundings, a natural smile curved her lips.

Yuu stood beside her, his eyes sweeping over rides he’d been on before. A nostalgic expression also appeared on his face.

“Yeah, didn’t expect to come back so soon…”

“So soon?” Yukino turned with a curious gaze. “You came recently? With Sora?”

“My sister wouldn’t leave the house just to visit an amusement park.” Yuu shrugged, subtly changing the topic. “Look, there’s a Christmas tree over there.”

In the middle of the long brick pathway from the main gate to the ride area, which would be adorned with dim yellow lights at night, perfect for couples strolling and being affectionate.

At the end of the path was a plaza in a Western style. Beside a blue brick fountain stood a tall Christmas tree.

The direction Yuu pointed to was the Christmas tree, currently bare and yet to be decorated.

“Christmas is coming soon too.”

Yukino looked where he pointed, her soft, cherry-colored lips pursing slightly. She nodded thoughtfully.

“Mm, though your topic-changing skills are terrible, I’ll be gentle with you today. I won’t ask who you came with for now.”

“For now?” Yuu tugged the corner of his lips into a bitter smile. “If I didn’t want to avoid lying to you, do you think I’m that dumb? Be wise, gentle Miss Yukino.”

“Why? Not using your usual tricks to fool people on me today?” Gently brushing aside the hair hanging over her shoulder, Yukino squinted sideways with a strange smile. “Sly Yuu… Tenkuji-san, if you really don’t want to say, you can lie as much as you want.”

“Then get crushed and humiliated by you?” Yuu sneered wordlessly. “I’m not you. Even if you’re shy about calling my name, I wouldn’t heartlessly embarrass you to make you blush.”

“Really.”

Unfortunately, Yukino didn’t blush as expected, only shrugging nonchalantly.

After accidentally kicking his calf, the girl stepped forward gracefully and politely, heading toward the amusement park’s iconic buildings.

Yuu, hurriedly keeping up, could see her cold, proud, and stunningly beautiful side profile when she was expressionless.

Any man other than him might not dare approach Yukino with that face.

Yuu didn’t care, knowing whether Yukino was truly angry or just too lazy to soften her expression.

He said casually, “Kicking people so often. When did you get so rough?”

Yukino replied coldly, “Thanks to someone, I can only vent my emotions by acting out.”

“Did I do something wrong? Why are you slandering a good person?”

“Heh.”

“By the way, hitting is affection, scolding is love. Hitting and scolding is true love… So, you’ve been in love with me for a while?”

“I suggest you dunk yourself in the fountain to drain the water from your brain.”

Bickering all the way to the Christmas tree, Yuu suddenly suggested taking a photo together and posting it to the group for Yuigahama to see.

“Why do something like that…”

Yukino muttered with a reluctant expression but still leaned in obediently, letting the lens capture them both.

Raising the phone high, Yuu flashed a bright smile.

After taking the selfie, he examined the photo a few times, pointing at the stiff, long-haired girl beside him, grinning mischievously:

“Look at you, you’re still blushing, aren’t you?”

“…” Her cheeks still faintly red, Yukino put on a cold face, swiftly raising her hand to snatch the phone.

Yuu was faster, dodging her grab while uploading the photo to their three-person group album. Then he pocketed the phone, spreading his hands innocently.

“Later, we’ll catch Yui and take a group photo.”

“…Hah.”

Seeing his cheeky smile, Yukino glared at him adorably a few times, closing her eyes helplessly.

Pressing the bridge of her nose, the displeased expression on her face softened, as if accepting reality.

“For Yuigahama-san’s sake, I’ll forgive you this time.”

(Heh, talking like you could take me on.)

Yuu sneered inwardly but didn’t intend to keep provoking her.

This time, he walked ahead, letting Yukino follow.

“Where to first?”

“Panda Pan’s Adventure!” Yukino answered quickly and firmly, her eyes fixed on her phone, checking new group messages.

[Yuigahama: (Thumbs-up sticker) Great job, Yuu-kun! Keep getting close to Yukinon like this and make her show more shy expressions! I’ll be there soon!]

“Hah…” Yukino sighed helplessly. Her fingers paused on the virtual keyboard, hesitating, and instead of typing, she sent six dots to express her speechlessness.

Then she pocketed her phone, lifting her head to continue speaking to Yuu. “If possible, I suggest riding it more than twice. The documentary shown in the tunnel changes slightly each time. Spotting the differences is one of the ride’s joys.”

Her expression was serious, almost fanatical.

Yuu flinched as if scared, then shook his head, laughing.

“Panda, right. I remember you do like that character…”

“Did I ever say that?” Yukino tilted her head slightly, frowning at him. “I shouldn’t have told anyone about that…”

Yuu thought for a moment, deciding it was fine to tell her. He said honestly, “Your older sister spilled it. She told me a lot about you.”

“When?” That was her first reaction. “You’re that close with her?” That was her second. “What did she say?”

After three rapid-fire questions, Yukino’s face grew increasingly grim. Her eyes locked onto Yuu, a chilling aura radiating from her.

She looked ready to kill him on the spot, perish together, and fly to hell if he said something he shouldn’t.

Withstanding her intense gaze, Yuu suppressed a mischievous smile, saying seriously, “Nothing much. Just that you love Panda Pan dolls and go to Disneyland every year… As for why she told me, I don’t know. She wouldn’t want me to know how to get close to you, right?”

“She wouldn’t do something that harms herself and benefits others…” Yukino instinctively refuted, then fell silent, slightly confused. Faint creases formed on her beautiful brows.

It felt like she sensed something was off. Yuu felt inexplicably uneasy but remained very casual, diverting her attention again.

“But one thing I’m curious about… Why go to Panda Pan’s Adventure first when it’s farther away, while Space Mountain is closer? That’s not efficient.”

Space Mountain was Disneyland’s famous roller coaster. Most of the park’s screams came from its twisting, seven-or-eight-loop track.

Yukino set aside her questions for now, answering, “No reason. I just don’t like overly extreme rides.”

“Scared?”

“Not scared!” Yukino emphasized. “Just don’t like it, not used to it. Besides, there are more people queuing there. No need to waste time.”

“Not that many.” Relying on his sharp eyesight, Yuu looked at the crowd queuing at Space Mountain’s entrance. An image suddenly flashed in his mind.

<If I placed a piano wire across the track, as the coaster sped down…>

At the roller coaster’s highest point, the college girl with a bad personality had once said, smiling with hopeful anticipation.

Yuu blinked, tossing the random memory to a corner of his mind. He continued enticing Yukino:

“Maybe just five minutes to get in. It’s one of Disneyland’s flagship rides. Isn’t it a pity to come and not try it?”

Yukino still showed a resistant expression, not looking scared but clearly serious as she stepped back.

“I know it’s a flagship ride. But it’s not in the itinerary I planned…”

“Come on, don’t waste time!”

Eager to see her reaction after riding the roller coaster, Yuu had no mercy. He stepped forward, grabbed her hand, and forcibly pulled her toward the roller coaster queue.

Though called forcibly, he left room for her to resist, always checking if Yukino was truly too scared to ride.

But Yukino only struggled slightly. Seeing their clasped hands, still held since the queue and inexplicably not released, she hesitated to speak, finally sighing deeply as if giving up.

Like a servant bought by a wicked noble’s son, she bit her lip slightly, obediently following behind.

Five minutes later.

They successfully boarded the spaceship-shaped roller coaster. The tunnel’s interior was decorated like a beautiful star map, quite atmospheric.

Following the queuing crowd, Yukino spoke slowly in a calm but deeply resentful tone: “Back when I came to Disneyland, Nee-san was like this too. She forcibly dragged me onto the roller coaster, ready to laugh at me…”

“Ahem, I’m different from her.”

Looking away from the tunnel he’d seen once before, Yuu cleared his throat twice, suppressing his expression and saying seriously, “I’m not trying to tease you or laugh at you by bringing you on the roller coaster.”

“Then why?”

In the dim light, her raised dark blue eyes became clear and bright, as if trying to see all the thoughts in his heart. Her long lashes trembled faintly without blinking.

Yuu didn’t avoid her gaze. Instead, he looked at her affectionately, his baritone voice soft:

“Just want to see you scream in fear and go limp after, needing someone to support you. No bad intentions.”

“…”

In the silence, Yukino had another question.

(How low must a person’s wickedness sink to say such unethical, evil things with a serious face?)

Able to surpass Haruno’s moral low, to some extent, this guy was a legend.

“If you keep being annoying like this, the Ideal Boyfriend task will never be completed.”

Not too coldly, just with her usual calm, helpless tone, she told him.

“You’re right.”

Yuu nodded in agreement, but his attitude was slightly indifferent. He even twirled his finger casually.

Yukino couldn’t hold back anymore. She abruptly stopped, ignoring the staff nearby watching them. Pursing her lips, she glared at him fiercely, looking slightly embarrassed and angry.

“Let go of my hand!”

Yuu looked down at their still-clasped hands, held since the queue and inexplicably not released. He slowly raised his gaze to her sharp eyes.

“Mad?”

“No.”

“Then why?”

“How do we board the coaster holding hands?”

Yukino’s glare was murderous.

“…You’re absolutely right.”

Yuu sheepishly released her hand. Yukino snorted coldly, turning away without looking at him.

Ignoring others’ mockery, he followed her and stepped into the roller coaster seats.

Two rows of seats. The safety bar was pulled down by staff after they sat properly.

Listening to the pre-ride announcement, while still reminiscing about the soft touch of her small hand, he heard the beautiful girl beside him speak softly:

“Is this how you treat your girlfriend?”

“What?”

Yuu turned, surprised, catching her slowly grasping the hand they’d held together. Her expression was slightly pensive, as if savoring the lingering warmth.

But under his gaze, Yukino quickly lowered her hand as if nothing happened, her eyes fixed on the light at the tunnel’s exit ahead, not turning.

“You like me, don’t you?”

She spoke as if it were certain, but the question was phrased as a statement.

“…That’s too sudden.” Stunned, Yuu asked, somewhat speechless, “How did you come to that conclusion?”

“If it was just for that weird task, you wouldn’t act so freely with me. You never even asked what my ideal boyfriend standards are… From start to finish, you just do things based on your own feelings.”

Calmly stating her reasons, Yukino tilted her head, looking at him serenely.

“Maybe you haven’t realized it yourself. But just from holding hands for over five minutes earlier, I know you already like me.”

The bell rang loudly. The roller coaster slowly started moving, accelerating toward the dazzling circle of light outside the tunnel.

Her beautiful black hair fluttered in the wind. Her eyes, gazing at him, sparkled but were still, like a frozen lake’s surface.

“If you want to deny it, you can just say yes or no.”

“Besides completing this Ideal Boyfriend task, do you have feelings of affection for me as a man does for a woman, while also liking Yuigahama-san?”

Her searching voice was too soft. In the noisy environment, only fragments carried by the wind reached Yuu’s ears.

“…Taking the act for real, huh?”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“Really brings back memories…”

Speeding all the way, she finally rushed to Disneyland in the shortest time. Even now, her heart pounded from the hurry.

Haruno took several deep breaths to calm herself. Recalling the summer vacation events, she couldn’t help but smile.

But thinking of the current situation, the corners of her lips unconsciously dropped, her expression darkening. Her cold gaze meticulously scanned the surrounding crowd.

Of course, arriving late, she didn’t find the person she wanted to see… nor even the one she didn’t want to.

“It’s fine, I can wait.”

Muttering to herself, she gripped her tote bag tightly. Haruno strode quickly toward the amusement park’s ticket scanner.

At the same time, she regretted inwardly—if only she’d installed a tracking app on Yukino’s phone!

-

Title: Sisters’ War (15)

After leaving Space Mountain, Yukino’s condition was surprisingly stable.

“Didn’t I tell you? I’m not scared of extreme rides like this, I just don’t like them.”

Tidying her hair, messed up by the wind, she didn’t look at him, but the corners of her lips faintly curved upward with a proud expression. “Sorry, you miscalculated… A trivial roller coaster like this is no threat to me at all.”

“So confident?” Yuu raised an eyebrow slightly, stroking his chin as he recalled. “I don’t know who was squeezing their eyes shut and gripping my sleeve tightly as the roller coaster kept climbing.”

“…”

“I don’t know who was trembling at the highest point and only calmed down after I patted their head a few times.”

“…”

“By the way, who was that adorable little girl who needed support getting off the ride and took a dozen seconds to compose herself?”

“…”

As if she didn’t hear him, Yukino remained silent. The cold aura radiating from her back grew stronger, and her fingers, tidying her hair, stiffened like a machine.

Yuu suddenly smiled. Before her anger peaked, he shrugged and said casually, “Since you’re so brave, let’s try the Coffee Cups next. They’re just slightly faster teacups. They shouldn’t be more extreme than a roller coaster.”

At those words, Yukino audibly inhaled, her chest seeming to swell slightly in a way he couldn’t quite see.

“…If you want to try, go ahead and try alone. I won’t join you a second time.”

Saying that coldly, Yukino walked toward Space Mountain’s exit.

As Yuu moved to follow, she suddenly stopped again, slowly tilting her head.

Yukino tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. One of her cheeks, lightly flushed with a cherry hue, turned toward him. Her eyes, like lake water reflecting light, mirrored his figure.

“Are you deliberately trying to make me angry to make me forget what I said to you on the train?”

As always, though it was a question, she used a declarative tone.

As if locked by her clear gaze, Yuu also stopped. He smiled without confirming or denying.

“The wind was too strong then. I didn’t hear what you said.”

“Liar.” Yukino sneered with disdain, as if she saw right through him. “You should understand, a man full of lies can never be my ideal boyfriend… I know there are many things you can’t say, but even your own feelings—can’t you face them honestly?”

“Something I’m not even sure of myself, how can I be honest about it? I don’t like ambiguity.” Yuu shrugged, firmly turning the question back. “What about you? If I’m not mistaken, in everything we’ve been through, aren’t you the one more restless than me?”

He suddenly stepped forward.

His aggressive words carried a strange pressure, enveloping the slender figure before him.

“Yukinoshita, let me ask you—from Yui’s feelings to the three-person date turning into a two-person one, which of these can you face honestly and resolve on the spot?”

“None, right?”

Yuu stared into her eyes, asking word by word. “Likewise, even if I’m not the ideal boyfriend in your heart, you can still hold my hand this closely, hear your own racing heartbeat, feel your rising body temperature—why? Can you honestly say the reason?”

“If you can, I can too.”

Her clear, distinct pupils contracted. Yukino opened her mouth slightly, stunned, and fell silent.

Yuu saw every ripple in her dark blue eyes. He knew he shouldn’t be asking her these questions.

When he was most helpless, Yukino reached out to help him.

When he didn’t know what to do, Yukino’s gentleness and fairness made choices for him.

…Come to think of it, even if the task wasn’t complete, Yuu still owed her a lot.

They should each be happy in their own way. He was the one who recklessly changed their friendship, arbitrarily placing them in this increasingly difficult situation—he was the mastermind creating the problem.

Yukino was innocent. As the culprit, Yuu had no right to force her to give any answers.

His way of speaking, his actions…

He really had no right to comment on anything.

“…Sorry, I spoke without thinking. Pretend I didn’t say anything.”

As soon as the words left his mouth, the regret rising in his heart made Yuu lower his head immediately. He honestly admitted his mistake.

Suppressing his chaotic emotions, he took a deep breath to calm down. A relaxed smile curved his lips as he tried to act like nothing happened.

“Let’s go. Where to next? Panda Pan’s Adventure?”

Speaking, Yuu passed by Yukino’s side, not looking at her expression. His demeanor was calm.

But after a few steps, his arm was tugged.

“Done talking and now you want to run?”

It was a chilling, emotionless voice.

Yuu didn’t pull his arm away forcefully, afraid of hurting her overly slender fingers. He only sighed softly and slowly turned around.

(Her gaze is cold and scary too. But it’s much softer than I imagined?)

(Hm? Isn’t she angry?)

(What’s going on?)

“You’re right, a troublesome person like you can’t be dealt with just by talking.”

Like a leopard finally spotting its prey’s weakness and slowly baring its fangs, Yukino curved her lips, looking at his slightly uneasy expression with a strange smile.

Yuu instinctively swallowed. “You dare call me troublesome. Who’s really the troublesome one… Hey!”

Not letting him finish, the girl suddenly reached out, grabbed his collar, and pulled him down, bringing his proud head to her level, just a palm’s width apart.

Their breaths mingled, as if they could feel the warmth of each other’s lips. They locked eyes, seeing themselves reflected in the other’s gaze, their heartbeats seemingly synchronized.

“Remember—I will save you from that expression. That promise still holds.”

As if carving the words deep into his heart, the girl, more dominant than Yuu just moments ago, stared straight into his eyes, speaking in a heavy, undeniable tone:

“Not for that weird task, but purely for you. I want to help you.”

“This is what I want to do. Until it’s done, there’s no reason to give up or take it lightly.”

Her expression was serious and intimidating, as if proclaiming a law.

“Yukinoshita Yukino is your girlfriend. I’ve acknowledged this fact—whether it troubles Yuigahama-san or forces me to face Nee-san, nothing can make me let go of this identity, not even you!”

“So from now on, please treat me with the appropriate attitude… Not just casual joking or deliberate pretend actions.”

“Admit it.”

Yukino could only admit it.

For some reason, she slowly showed a smile, her eyes narrowing like a lazy kitten’s.

Her gaze, accepting a somewhat helpless reality, was softer than early spring when snow melts.

“You’ll like me sooner or later, just as I’ll like you sooner or later.”

“Even without the request, if we keep hanging out as friends like this, one day I’ll…”

Her murmur stopped there.

Yukino blinked, her breath catching unconsciously. After staring at his shocked, handsome face and well-defined lips for a moment, her face flushed with embarrassment. Her eyes slowly widened, her body temperature clearly rising.

“A-Anyway!”

She released his collar in a slight panic, stepping back a few paces. The aura that seemed about to kiss him vanished quickly.

Inhaling cold air into her lungs, Yukino glanced at the ground, subtly twirling a strand of hair on her cheek.

“No matter… what happens in the future, no matter the reason…”

Her white teeth bit her pink lips. She tried to maintain surface calm, but her voice grew softer, slightly nervous.

“At least for now, I’m really looking forward to… our next date…”

Her shy words ended. Her fair, adorable face was fully flushed.

Yukino closed her eyes tightly, pressing her hand to her chest, taking a deep breath.

Suddenly, she clenched the hand on her chest and swung it.

(Good, I said it!)

She even showed a satisfied expression, as if accomplishing a great feat, her aura sparkling.

After calming down somewhat, she cleared her throat twice, returning to Yuu’s side calmly. She linked her arm with his.

“Holding hands is too much hassle. Let’s walk like this… By the way, I’m more comfortable calling you Tenkuji-kun. I won’t change that unless something comes up.”

Like a stray cat newly found, Yukino approached cautiously, careful not to let her small chest touch his arm.

Maintaining that distance, she finally felt safe. Pursing her slightly curved lips, she looked ahead naturally. “Next stop is Panda Pan’s Adventure. After the cable car, we’ll take a photo together. There’s a sticker photo machine there; we can take pictures with exclusive backgrounds only available here.”

Her voice declared the current issue resolved, ready to move to the next stage.

The path ahead was wide open. Though a thin mist still shrouded the top of the tall castle tower, it would soon dissipate in the increasingly lively amusement park, right?

“…”

The girl stepped forward first.

Yuu didn’t resist, following her away from Space Mountain toward Panda Pan’s Adventure.

After a moment of daydreaming, he snapped back as if from a distant place. His shocked expression slowly turned complex.

Looking down at the girl beside him, whose flush had nearly faded, Yukino seemed calm and even slightly pleased. Yuu opened his mouth hesitantly, his usually sharp mind unable to find a single word for the moment.

After a while, he asked cautiously:

“…Um, Yukino?”

“What, thirsty?”

Yukino looked up, her eyes quickly locking onto a small vendor ten meters ahead. Pursing her slightly dry lips from talking too much, she smiled faintly, her voice cheerful:

“Let’s buy drinks there! I’m thirsty too. Though food and drinks in the park are pricey, they’re tastier than convenience store ones. Next time, I suggest bringing your own water… I usually buy the special Panda Pan edition drinks here.”

“No, that can wait. I just wanted to say…”

Yuu tugged the corner of his lips with a complex expression. The soft touch on his arm made him feel confused for the first time.

“Is this really okay?”

“What’s not okay? Isn’t this your goal? You didn’t seem like this before entering the park.”

“Really liking me… isn’t a good thing.”

“Relax. I won’t become like Nee-san or Natsukawa-san, losing my senses and going extreme just because I fell for someone…”

Yukino looked at Yuu. As if tired of pretending or forcing herself, she tilted her head and showed a calm smile.

“Even if I do, I won’t regret this choice now.”

“Because saving you makes me feel an irreplaceable satisfaction.”

She said, smiling like that.

“…”

At that moment, Yuu took a deep breath. Thousands of words surged to his throat, then got stuck.

Suddenly, he smiled.

He looked at the sky, letting out a happy laugh toward the heavens where clouds and mist had cleared.

“Haaa… You’re really a weird one.”

A beauty that wasn’t intrusive, pure, smart, and honest—perfectly suited to Yukino.

From then until now, Yuu thought, this was Yukino at her most adorable… And perhaps in the future, it would always be like this.

At least, in his eyes.

“Huh, same to you.”

Yukino shrugged nonchalantly, pulling his arm toward the vendor. After buying two drinks, she walked lightly toward the bamboo-decorated entertainment hall.

“By the way, I remember you saying your charm isn’t enough to make me commit crimes, that I wouldn’t touch you at all?”

“Didn’t you also say only insects would like me? Tsk, Insect-shita Yukino.”

“Please don’t drag Yuigahama-san into this, Insect-kun Tenkuji.”

Bickering as they entered Panda Pan’s Adventure and again as they exited the cable car, they shifted from arm-linking to hand-holding, entering the Panda Pan souvenir shop.

The sticker photo machine was there. While their hands were still free before shopping, Yukino pulled him to take their first sticker photo together.

Enthusiastic expression, eyes sparkling like a child’s, cheeks pink with anticipation—this was a Yukino he’d never seen before.

No overly intimate poses. They just leaned against each other, smiling naturally and safely at the camera.

After taking the photo, they entered the free-coloring session. Yukino, new to sticker photos, couldn’t help panicking while operating the machine, needing his help to adjust settings like the background.

Holding the stylus, Yuu deftly tapped the panel. “Let’s pick this bamboo background. Don’t add anything else. I don’t like overly cluttered photos.”

Quickly grasping the controls, Yukino pushed him away from the screen, tapping rapidly with a serious expression.

“I don’t like cluttered ones either. But Mr. Panda is a must. Add one… No, ten.”

“Too many! Are you trying to cover my face with pandas?!”

“Oh, good idea~” Raising her brows and pursing her lips, Yukino smiled mischievously and adorably. “I’ll put a panda censor over your face. Don’t let your face reduce Mr. Panda’s cuteness.”

Yuu smiled insincerely, saying in a friendly tone, “Dear Miss Yukino, ever heard this?”

“When taking sticker photos, seventy percent of guys choose to forcibly kiss the girl beside them to leave a memory.”

“Really? So what?” Yukino turned, completely unbothered by his empty threat.

Then she honestly removed the excess pandas, leaving just two on their shoulders.

“Thank me. I’ve considered this much for you. Who told me to have a heart as vast as Mount Mitake, willing to forgive your arrogance and rudeness.”

“Relax, I’m not interested in forcibly kissing anyone.” Yuu snorted coldly.

After all, it was always others forcibly kissing him.

After the edited sticker photo was printed, they left the machine, split the photos, and admired and discussed them briefly before browsing the shop.

Seeing Yukino immediately tuck the sticker photo into her bag, Yuu stopped his fingers holding one corner of the photo, asking in confusion, “Not planning to stick it on the back of your phone? Most couples do that.”

“Not for now. I’m a bit… embarrassed.” Yukino covered her mouth with her hand, her face slightly red, murmuring softly, “If Nee-san finds it, it’s fine… If Mother finds it, it’ll just cause bigger trouble.”

“You’re right.”

Yuu didn’t care much. All this time, whenever he took sticker photos with a girlfriend, he’d stick them on the back of his phone case to prove his loyalty.

Though this phone case already had sticker photos from three girls who’d taken them with him… This was the fourth.

“Capturing a girl’s heart with various unintentional little actions…” Seeing his unhesitating move, Yukino couldn’t help chuckling, teasing, “It’s tough being your girlfriend. Having to wonder every day if another girl’s been charmed by you like this.”

“I act upright and do right.” Yuu rolled his eyes. “This is called a warm, considerate man. Don’t compare me to central air conditioning.”

“Two-timing and daring to say you’re not central AC? Truly shameless.” Yukino retorted with a roll of her eyes, sneering.

“I didn’t ask because I didn’t want to embarrass you… Tenkuji-kun, you’re so skilled at taking sticker photos. How many times have you come with Yuigahama-san? Why don’t I see your sticker photos with her on your phone?”

“I’ve never taken a photo just with Yui.” Yuu defended himself calmly. “We took one together during the Autumn Study Tour. Did you forget?”

“Autumn Study Tour?” Yukino tilted her head in confusion, frowning as she searched her memory. “Though we did split into two groups… As far as I know, we didn’t have a sticker photo session?”

“…Ah, right.” Yuu suddenly realized, sneering helplessly.

After all, the past was the past. Events related to Masuzu had undergone slight changes and erasures.

In the altered worldline, their six-person group indeed didn’t go to an arcade for sticker photos.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Disneyland, a certain corner.

At an outdoor café seating area, a silver-haired girl held high-magnification binoculars. Through a street mirror’s reflection, she silently mimicked Yuu’s lip movements.

“Sticker photo… Autumn Study Tour…”

“Familiar words. Do they have something to do with me?”

“I did join the Autumn Study Tour, but nothing worth remembering…”

Staring at the scene, Masuzu pondered, distracted. She felt something being tugged, wanting to surface from the depths of her heart.

-

Title: Sisters’ War (16)

In the vast amusement park, the number of attractions was countless.

Though Yuu had only been here once, and Yukino had visited many times since childhood, spending a whole day like this, they never felt bored or tired.

Was it because the old or new rides brought them joy?

Or because the excitement of the haunted house and the tension of the escape room made them lose track of time?

Perhaps yes, perhaps no.

They both knew well that the place wasn’t the key—it was the number of people.

Humans are social creatures. Except for a few individuals, the number and closeness of those around them affect the facades they put on and their mood swings.

Even with many smiles around, if they disliked those people, they’d naturally feel displeased and want to escape the joyful atmosphere. Conversely, even in pouring rain, as long as someone they liked was by their side, their mood would automatically lift, and they’d wish time would slow down.

Clinging to beliefs they deemed right, yet their emotions easily swayed by others—humans are deeply contradictory creatures.

Both Yuu and Yukino were largely no exception to this.

“I’m going to buy drinks. Wait here.”

“Mm.”

By late afternoon, the drinks they bought in the morning were long gone. After another round of rides, they naturally felt thirsty.

After answering softly, Yukino, sitting on a long bench, unconsciously swung her legs.

She shifted her gaze before turning back, looking at the sky covered with thick clouds. A relieved smile curved her lips, her cheeks warm with lingering heat. She seemed oblivious to the increasingly chilly evening breeze.

She hadn’t expected strolling through an amusement park with the opposite sex could be this joyful.

It felt completely different from coming with family or alone. It was as if every ride had a new way to enjoy it, as if every scene had a fresh interpretation.

As if just meeting his gaze could naturally curve her lips upward—let alone boredom, even wandering the Panda shop to her heart’s content wasn’t as delightful as this feeling.

Whether in the Service Club or the amusement park, time spent by his side was always like this.

At this point, Yukino had no reason to keep denying—she wouldn’t twist the feelings rising from her heart for any foolish reason or pride.

Time didn’t matter, place didn’t matter.

The person was what mattered.

(He’s not overly polite. He agrees when it’s right and sneers when it’s not. His pretend-angry look is adorable.)

(He’s not lewd or crude. He openly appreciates my legs and jokes less about my chest.)

(He’s not quiet. He can keep up with any topic, giving annoying yet funny responses.)

(He’s not full of deceit. Knowing his lies would be exposed, he drops his pretense in front of me.)

(Dating someone like him, whether at an amusement park or a library, would bring memorable joy, wouldn’t it?)

“Is this… the feeling of liking someone?”

Yukino touched her chest, feeling a steady, warm heartbeat.

The flush on her cheeks deepened quietly. She shook her head, sighing softly as if exasperated with herself, but without much displeasure.

She twirled a strand of her beautiful black hair, playing with it between her fingers. Her thoughts rippled repeatedly.

He said he didn’t like ambiguity. So, she had to resolve it now.

Indeed, Yuu was a guy with a bad personality, acting on whims, a natural flirt who teased left and right and spoke freely.

His flaws were countless. He was the complete opposite of the ideal man in her heart.

How could Yukino like someone like him?

On the contrary, he was a natural enemy, the type that disgusted her at first sight.

…A few weeks ago, she truly thought this way.

That’s why love is such a strange thing.

Despite the other’s many flaws, when just one strength captures your heart, you keep looking back—once, twice, thrice… more and more.

Until you grow used to their presence, accept all their flaws, and like yourself when you’re by their side, it’s incurable. You can only accept fate and say:

“I like him.”

Yukino couldn’t say this when he was beside her.

But alone on the bench, she covered her mouth with her hand, lowered her face, and read the words slowly and seriously: “Mm… Like.”

At first, she only covered her mouth, making a small gesture that wasn’t even a disguise.

But when her ears heard her actually say the word, she couldn’t help feeling flustered and shy. She pulled a scarf from her bag, wrapping her burning face in it, even hiding her ears. Then she began taking deep breaths.

“Inhale—Exhale—”

Her lungs filled with cold air, finally cooling her overheated head.

Pressing the scarf with her fingers, she left a gap. Her soft, pink lips exhaled white mist slowly, startling her into widening her eyes.

(It wasn’t there earlier. Is my body temperature that high?)

(Am I running a fever?)

Quickly, Yukino shook her head as if laughing at herself, pursing her lips.

Her gaze returned to the back of the boy buying drinks. Her heels unconsciously tapped the ground cheerfully.

Perhaps too focused, Yukino only noticed someone speaking to her when a voice sounded in front of her.

“Hello, pretty girl, are you alone? Do you have some time?”

It was two adult men with blonde hair and blue eyes. Their English was slightly awkward, mixed with some French words. They looked at her with admiring, enthusiastic gazes, using hand gestures in case she didn’t understand.

(Flirting? Or just asking for directions…)

Thinking to herself, Yukino reflexively frowned.

Their tall shadows enveloped her. A strong perfume scent hit her face. Used to Yuu’s scent, this smell only made her feel more disgusted and nauseous.

After a moment’s thought, Yukino remained seated, speaking to the two strangers in standard English: “Sorry, I’m here with my boyfriend. I don’t have time now.”

After a brief explanation, she calmly lowered her gaze, signaling she had no intention of continuing the conversation.

Politeness shouldn’t be forgotten, but when it was time to refuse, Yukino didn’t beat around the bush. She’d rejected countless flirting attempts and confessions since childhood.

But perhaps she was too polite, or maybe the others were used to rejection. Instead of leaving courteously, the two strangers laughed heartily with interest, looking like mercenaries ready to challenge an evil dragon.

“WOW, your English is great! We’re French. Do you speak French? It’s the most romantic language in the world!”

“No problem if you have a boyfriend. I also like hanging out with handsome guys. No issue at all~ Plus, I heard Japanese people are very friendly. It’s our first time in Japan. How about we be friends? I hope your boyfriend is as handsome as me~”

They laughed uproariously in front of the bench, for reasons unknown.

The girl remained silent. Her small hands on her knees slowly clenched.

“Sss… Hah…”

Struggling to suppress her unpleasant emotions, Yukino took a deep breath and exhaled like a sigh.

Her slightly lowered face was expressionless. Her eyes were icy cold, hiding a chilling intent.

For context: Whether domestic or international, she was used to being flirted with. She didn’t get angry over it and knew the fastest way to get rid of them.

So, there was only one reason Yukino didn’t do so.

(…What did that squinting, crooked-mouthed guy on the left, who combed his hair like a stud, say?)

(Who’s as ugly as you? Who’s the boyfriend you want to mess with?)

An inexplicable anger burned in her chest, but Yukino’s mind was calm.

Think carefully. What should an ordinary girlfriend do when faced with foreign guys insulting her boyfriend’s appearance and even having bad intentions toward him, to protect her rights?

Hit them? Insult them?

Or report them to the police directly?

After seriously considering feasibility, Yukino shook her head. She raised her eyes with slight regret, her gaze piercing the two tall figures. She suddenly thought of the best approach.

After silently saying something to herself, she couldn’t help but smile brightly, like melting ice.

That sincere, gentle smile stopped the laughter of the two men in front of her. They showed awestruck expressions.

Unfortunately, Yukino paid no attention to the two extras. She only looked past them, her eyes narrowing into adorable crescent moons from joy.

“Don’t give them that scary look. They don’t have, and won’t ever have, a chance to do anything to me.”

“No one’s flirting either? I can only decide how many teeth to knock out depending on the situation.”

“Relax. They’re just saying they’re interested in you… I’m the one who should be mad.”

“Wow, looks like we’re both getting more aware of our couple status.”

The two strangers, hearing the voice, snapped out of their awe at the stunning smile. They turned around in shock.

“Hey…”

“Here he is…”

Not waiting for them to finish, the handsome youth holding drinks smiled and tilted his head. His tone was like that of the most perfect waiter, polite and friendly:

“Hello, both of you. Since you understand English, speaking in English should work too…”

Without giving them time to react, Yuu stared coldly, his voice low and heavy:

“Stay away from my girlfriend, or I’ll kick your balls until they burst.”

The Word Bullet, unused for so long, pierced sharply into their ears.

The next second, almost reflexively, they raised their hands high and shouted:

“‘J, Je suis vraiment désolé!’” (French: Very sorry!)

Then they hurriedly fled in different directions, showing no shame for being intimidated by a high schooler. They ran so fast, as if afraid he’d chase them.

“With such little courage, they dare go out flirting…”

Yuu shifted his gaze from their fleeing backs, sneering. He casually handed the drink to the girl on the bench, as if he’d just swatted a mosquito. “Couldn’t you have gotten rid of them in two or three sentences? Why wait to ask for my help?”

“Oh, did I ask for your help?” Holding the drink, Yukino smiled like a naughty cat biting a remote and jumping onto a cabinet. “I didn’t say anything.”

“Your eyes.” Yuu rolled his eyes, sitting casually beside her. “When you looked at me just now, in your heart, you were thinking, ‘If you don’t come help me quick, you’re dead.’”

“Mm… Not quite, but close enough.” Yukino shrugged, neither confirming nor denying, even using old-fashioned language.

Yuu glanced at her wordlessly, too lazy to say more. He just sipped his drink slowly, enjoying the relaxed moment.

Yukino bit her straw gently, smiling happily, oblivious to those around. She seemed to have found something delightful.

Only she knew.

When she locked eyes with Yuu, she wasn’t thinking, “If you don’t come help me quick, you’re dead,” but a sentimental line:

‘Though your personality’s bad, you’re never serious, and you want to see my scared expression…’

‘You won’t do anything bad to me. And as long as I ask for your help, no matter where I am or what danger I face, you’ll always come save me.’

Despite so many flirting attempts, this was the first time she felt safe.

Because of that safety, Yukino could smile without hesitation. Because she was certain she truly liked him, she unconsciously let go of her pride, acting spoiled with him.

“So, next time I get hit on, you’ll still come help me, right?”

“That’s a given… Wait, don’t tell me you’re deliberately getting hit on to let me save you?”

“Am I someone who’d do something that boring? You can apologize to me now.”

“You talk tough, but it’d be better if you weren’t heartlessly resting your head on my shoulder…”

“Pillows stay quiet. Don’t overthink or talk nonsense.”

“Oh, right, right… Wait, are you secretly sniffing my scent?!”

“Poor thing. So young and already can’t distinguish reality from fantasy. Looks like you’ll only calm down after dunking your head in a fountain. You’re not delicious food—why would I sniff you?”

“Because I smell better than those two! Are you going to lie and deny that fact?”

“Hmm…”

After resting on the bench briefly and sharing small, intimate interactions they’d never have done before, Yuu pulled Yukino to stand. They prepared to head to the day’s final stop—the Ferris wheel.

Along the way, the pure, adorable girl with long, straight black hair sighed listlessly.

“Honestly, I don’t like Ferris wheels… How about we just go find Yuigahama-san?”

“Scared of heights?”

“Just don’t like them.”

“That means scared of heights.”

“Hah, Tenkuji-kun.”

“What?”

“Shut up.”

“Oh…”

The sky grew darker. The cold wind rustling dry branches and leaves seemed increasingly eerie.

Yet in the still-lively amusement park filled with smiles, light and melodious music dispelled all anxiety and fear. Bright lights banished loneliness and cold.

The clasped hands were a talisman for safely passing through the night.

Alone, Haruno stood in front of the bench.

She watched their intimate backs heading toward the Ferris wheel, her gaze fixed on their linked arms.

Until they vanished into the crowd, her focus didn’t shift an inch. No light appeared in her dark eyes.

“Arriving late makes you lose easily—turns out that applies to me too… Heh, so annoying.”

Her eyes narrowed coldly. She slowly gripped her tote bag’s handle tightly. But her soft, warm lips curved upward.

Smiling brightly and honestly, Haruno whispered toward the disappearing backs:

“Finally, I found you.”

“My dear Yuu-chan~”