Yuu 486-490 (Patreon)

Title: Sisters’ War (End)

The clouds today were quite thick. It was impossible to enjoy the beauty of the sunset slowly sinking on the horizon from atop the Ferris wheel.

Yet, from such close range, watching the vast skyline colored by the approaching night, as clouds came and went, welcoming the solemn, quiet night sky—this experience was fascinating in its own way.

Hopefully, the girl who seemed afraid of heights could calm down and enjoy the beautiful view.

Seeing the black-haired girl in front of him take a deep breath before stepping into the slowly moving Ferris wheel cabin, Yuu smiled silently. He followed and sat behind her.

“Enjoy the view, you two.”

The cabin door closed. Under the slightly envious gaze of the staff, their seat slowly rose.

Fortunately, the wind wasn’t too strong today. No particular swaying. The cabin steadily distanced itself from the ground.

“Are you scared?”

Yuu shifted his gaze from the window to the slender girl beside him, pulling her scarf to cover half her small face.

Yukino shrugged. She was clearly tense, looking like she wanted to carve herself desperately into the seat. Even her breathing was cautious. She didn’t dare look out the window.

She was fragile like a child afraid of ghosts—completely different from the usual Yukino. But in the end, the one who always acted mature was just a girl his age.

Afraid, anxious, and capable of falling in love. She was that simple and ordinary.

“If you ask if I’m scared, not really… I just remembered some unpleasant past events.”

She sighed softly.

Adjusting herself under his gaze, Yukino slightly closed her eyes. She carefully leaned back into the seat. Her thin lips pressed into a straight line from anxiety. She smiled a little self-deprecatingly.

“Whenever the whole family came to the amusement park, Nee-san would pick on me.”

Just hearing this preface, Yuu already knew how the story continued.

“On the Ferris wheel, she’d rock the cabin hard. On the roller coaster, she’d let go of my hand gripping the bar. As long as I showed a scared expression, she’d laugh mercilessly and enjoy it… Oh, and on the Coffee Cups, she ignored my protests and kept spinning the seat…”

As Yukino spoke, her expression darkened. The fear of leaving the ground seemed resolved. The cabin was enveloped in cold anger.

Yuu sighed in understanding. “She does seem like the type… You must have suffered a lot.”

“Not just me. She did the same to most people. She was just more ruthless with me.” Yukino sighed lightly, complaining as if accepting fate. “Even so, no one hated her for it.”

Yuu showed confusion with his gaze.

“After all, that’s Nee-san’s charm.”

As if proud of her own sister, Yukino’s voice unconsciously rose. A cheerful smile appeared on her face.

“Despite her personality, she’s always been loved by everyone… No, precisely because of that personality, Big Sister is liked, adored, and expected of… And she never disappoints anyone. She does everything perfectly.”

At this point, her smile suddenly faded. Her emotions dropped sharply. “I’ve always been in her shadow. I acted like a rule-following doll. That’s why I’m often called a mature, well-behaved kid who doesn’t cause trouble… But the opposite also means cold and unlikable.”

“I know full well people talk about me behind my back, always comparing me to Nee-san.”

Her expression calmed. She seemed to have accepted the situation and had no intention of dwelling on it.

Yukino just tilted her head toward Yuu. The corners of her lips curved helplessly. Her voice was soft like snow falling to the ground, slowly melting.

“Tenkuji-kun, you’re like Nee-san. You always stick to your style. Good or bad, there will always be people drawn to you like that…”

“While I never knew what appearance to show or how to stand at the same height as you all to see the same view.”

Not shifting his gaze as the scenery outside slowly rose, Yuu locked eyes with those dark blue ones.

Instinctively, he tried to read Yukino’s current mood.

Was it loss, regret, despair, or just calm recounting of facts… But after looking briefly, he found he couldn’t see anything. Like the clearest lake water, he couldn’t spot subtle changes in the mud below.

Finally, Yuu could only ask honestly, “Now, do you still think that way?”

“Now?” Yukino murmured, repeating. Her eyes were slightly vacant. “Now…”

Yukino suddenly smiled. Who knows what she thought. She shifted her gaze to the world outside the cabin.

Her tense body slowly relaxed. The radiating anger had vanished. All that remained was a sense of safety and ease, like curling up in a home blanket.

“You see? That cloud looks a bit like a panda.”

Yuu followed her slender, white finger. After frowning and looking briefly, he reluctantly nodded. “Only the two ears look similar… But if it’s just ears, it’s not only pandas, right?”

Yukino smiled and looked at him. “Why do you think it has nothing to do with me? The most important thing is, I think it’s a panda, so it’s a panda.”

“Then why ask playfully?” Yuu couldn’t help rolling his eyes.

The girl ignored the jab. She just looked at him frankly and seriously. Her soft, watery gaze seemed to radiate sunset light.

“A few days ago, I declared war on her who’s always arrogant.”

“Not long ago, I figured out how to face my own feelings.”

“And now, you and I are seeing the same sky.”

The Ferris wheel slowly rising. Her voice gradually cheerful. The world slowly quieting.

The smile at her lips was calm and gentle, yet with a striking, firm beauty.

As if mesmerized by such beauty, Yuu was speechless for a moment. He just stared at Yukino in shock, watching her extend a finger and gently pinch his sleeve.

At first, it was a light touch like a kitten’s bite. But slowly, Yukino grasped his entire wrist through the sleeve. Then she shortened the distance, gently resting her head on his shoulder.

Yuu couldn’t see her expression. He could only feel her steady, light breathing, like she was asleep.

“In your eyes, what do I look like?”

The cabin was very quiet. At the highest point in the sky, she whispered fearlessly.

This time, it was Yuu’s turn to sit somewhat stiffly. Only after making a sound did he slowly relax his warm, rested-upon shoulder.

“…This question is kinda embarrassing.”

Yukino’s laugh sounded very happy. “Really? Then my change can be called successful. All that past anxiety wasn’t in vain.”

“It wasn’t that long, right? At most a few weeks…”

“Anyway, the more important something is, the more it feels like most of life was spent on it… Why, isn’t it the same for you?”

“I am, of course. You’re very important to me, okay?”

“…Sounds insincere, but I’ll forgive you for now.” Yukino murmured. She tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Her ear, hidden in black hair, was already flushed. Only her tone tried to stay calm.

“The cabin’s a bit cold. Let me lean for a bit. Don’t look over here for now.”

“Really…”

Leaned on by her soft, warm body, Yuu felt no cold at all. Nor did he feel her hand holding his was too cold.

He calmed his surprised heart, sighing lightly with a laugh. “Should I call you honest or prideful? Sometimes you’re more proactive than me, but after being proactive, you get shy… You’re really like a middle school girl dating for the first time.”

“Because this is my first time dating. Sorry, Mr. Casanova isn’t the same.”

Her tone immediately turned cold and clear. Yukino’s speech was polite, but every word carried clear mockery.

Sensing the other’s displeasure, Yuu cleared his throat awkwardly, quickly changing the topic. “I’m not worthy of being called Casanova… But you already like me this much. Your ideal boyfriend standards should be met, right?”

“Don’t be narcissistic. I only have a little liking for you at most. Can’t say it’s a lot yet.”

Yukino sneered disdainfully. Her fingers slowly poked his thigh twice. Her attitude was arrogant like a queen, yet with adorable childlike innocence. “So from now on, work harder to please me! Tenkuji-kun.”

“My standards for a boyfriend are very high. If you rely on my feelings and don’t strive forward, the day the task is nearly done, I’ll firmly leave you. Remember that!”

Yukino threw harsh words firmly. But she felt no anxiety or fear from the person beside her.

Even his response was somewhat casual.

“Got it. Relax…”

Yuu secretly rolled his eyes, looking down. His expression showed helplessness.

Despite saying such cruel words, that slender, boneless soft hand had somehow crawled from his wrist to his palm. After awkward, shy explorations, it gripped his five fingers tightly, like a magnet finding the right pole.

Skin to skin in close contact. Yuu didn’t use strength. He just let her grip his fingers tightly. It seemed she didn’t want even a bit of air blocking this warmth.

(Leave without hesitation?)

(Heh heh, you dare say that. Just try loosening your hand a little…)

“Yukino, I take back my earlier assessment.”

“What?”

“Compared to a middle school girl dating for the first time, you’re more like a cat.”

“What do you mean? Is this a compliment?”

“Mm… Take it as one.”

“You said you don’t like ambiguity? Explain that assessment now!”

“I don’t want to. If you dare, bite me… Woa, you really bit? Guess I was right calling you a cat.”

“Huh…”

The Ferris wheel still turned slowly. Passing cold, arrogant clouds. Passing the darkening skyline.

But whether turning from six o’clock to twelve or twelve to six, it didn’t matter at all to those who only had eyes for each other, right?

The cabin became like another world. The scenery outside kept changing. But the distance between them never did.

It was then they realized one thing.

When alone with someone, no matter what’s done or said, time and heartbeats race equally fast—perhaps due to the setting, or perhaps just a change after shortening distance.

But it was truly different from their past selves.

In the blink of an eye, it was time to leave the Ferris wheel.

The staff below prepared to open the door. Yukino reluctantly released his hand. She pulled her scarf to cover her flushed, warm face, as if it would never cool. She complained casually:

“This is the first time I’ve completed a full Ferris wheel ride with such a calm heart.”

“Because I’m here.” Yuu shrugged arrogantly. He said naturally, “If I hadn’t kept distracting you, preventing you from looking down, you’d be scared stiff, knees weak, hugging your head by now.”

Yukino smiled and looked at him. “Oh? So I should thank you?”

“No need to thank, a kiss is enough.” Yuu joked.

Unexpectedly, after a startle, Yukino quickly glanced at the staff outside. She seemed to check if they could see inside the cabin.

Then she pulled Yuu’s collar. Under his disbelieving gaze, her soft lips emerged from the scarf. She quickly kissed his cheek like a dragonfly touching water.

It was the moment they were closest.

She sat back nonchalantly. Her fair, beautiful face still flushed. Her fingers slowly touched her pink lips, as if reminiscing the touch.

“…I understand the principle ‘to make a horse run fast, feed it grass.’”

Warm breath exhaled from her mouth. Her pretend-calm voice hid shyness.

Yukino didn’t avoid Yuu’s shocked gaze. She just challenged him with a confident, bold smile.

Yet her eyes were still soft as water. Only his reflection in them.

“So, when will you officially confess to me?” She asked, smiling.

“…Hah?” The question was too sudden. Yuu was stunned for two or three seconds before reacting. His expression odd. “Didn’t you just tell Yui you don’t need one?”

“That was then. This is now.” Yukino frowned slightly. Her beautiful lips pouted. Her cheeks puffed. She sulked like a child. “Why, you object? Or plan to pretend today never happened, keeping the same distance as before? All words said, all hands held mean nothing?”

“Hah? I never said that…”

Before Yuu finished, the cabin door opened by the staff. They politely urged them to exit with their eyes.

Seeing the bad timing, Yuu immediately pulled Yukino out of the Ferris wheel. He planned to explain properly once fewer people were around. He also wanted to tease her adorable sulking look.

She was truly not the same creature as the usual Snow Queen.

The long, straight black-haired girl, hand held, reflexively struggled briefly at first, then obediently let him hold it. She walked casually behind. Her mood seemed great again.

Following the exiting crowd, they descended the stairs, one in front, one behind.

Yuu recalled the map. He realized this was the park’s end. No more rides or rest areas. He planned to turn and ask Yukino if they should find Yuigahama now. They could discuss next plans together. Take a few group photos, and today’s ‘date’ could end perfectly.

But before he spoke, a familiar voice suddenly came from a dark spot behind the stairs.

“Hey~ ‘Ex-Boyfriend’ over there—”

Cheerful tone, open voice, shouting loudly like meeting a friend on the street.

Yet Yuu, hearing this, froze reflexively.

His hair stood on end. Goosebumps erupted all over. Cold rushed from soles to head. Like being shoved into a morgue freezer.

Yukino beside him startled briefly. Then she turned toward the voice. Her eyes widened in disbelief.

“Nee-san?! Why is Nee-san here…”

Haruno stepped out from the dark. She glanced at her with a smile. But her voice was emotionless, full of cold pressure:

“I don’t want to explain for now. Before I talk to you, don’t interfere arbitrarily in my business with him, Yukino.”

“…”

Shifting from her instinctively silent sister, Haruno tucked beautiful hair behind her ear. She refilled her eyes with a smile. Her soft, bright eyes looked at Yuu, as enthusiastic as ever:

“What’s wrong? I called you, why no answer?”

“…Haruno, what do you want?”

Yuu held his breath briefly. Only then did he force out the words in a somewhat dry voice.

Forget bad premonitions. This time, disaster struck right before his eyes. Without time or chance to prepare.

Like an invisible hand gripping his heart. Watching Haruno slowly approach, Yuu could only hold his breath. He struggled to maintain a calm expression. He didn’t even care about Yukino’s reaction.

“Eh? What do I want?”

Haruno blinked at him. Her face full of innocence and confusion. As if truly puzzled by the question.

Unfortunately, she couldn’t hold it for seconds. Haruno chuckled. She couldn’t help laughing heartily.

“Pfft hahahahaha, someone really asks that, so shameless… No, this is a playboy’s standard response.”

She wiped tears from laughing. Took a deep breath. Then sighed long, helplessly.

Haruno narrowed her eyes into sickle-like crescents. She stared at Yuu. Her voice slowly turned cold:

“That’s a question I should ask you.”

Her dark, dull eyes glanced at their still-joined hands. She slowly tilted her head. Her gaze cold as a knife. She asked in a friendly tone:

“Not only secretly dating my little sister, even holding hands at the place we dated… What exactly are you planning?”

“Since we dated in July, you haven’t officially broken up with me, Mr. Ex-Boyfriend.”

Suddenly, Haruno stepped forward. She tiptoed.

Her mature, beautiful face approached his. The distance shortened to one finger. Her breath and voice slowly brushed his face.

In those deep, dark eyes, his increasingly stiff expression was fully visible.

And she whispered, like cold wind blowing:

“Cheating with your girlfriend’s little sister is an unforgivable death penalty on my side… So, are you ready to confess your guilt?”

In December’s winter, the last dry leaf on a branch tip fell to the ground, trampled into mud by passing footsteps.

The amusement park was still lively. Laughter and joy everywhere.

Only the corner where the three stood seemed frozen. Suddenly plunged into deadly silence, where no one could move.

-

Title: Little Sister What? She’s Just a Thief Cat

Earlier, somewhere in the amusement park.

A girl rushed out of the women’s restroom. While drying her wet hands with a handkerchief, she hurried toward the Ferris wheel, her face showing anxiety and frustration.

“Ugh, why did I have to get a sudden stomachache…”

She should’ve been able to follow them from behind, sneak into the third cabin back, and see if they’d do anything naughty alone in a closed space…

But whether the milk she drank that morning was spoiled or what, a strong, sudden stomachache ruined her perfect plan—God knows how much she suffered and how annoyed she was fighting her gut in the toilet!

Thinking about it, the hurrying Yuigahama couldn’t help clenching her fists. She added a bit of strength to her legs, aggressively pushing against the crowd.

Ignoring the weird looks around her, she looked solemn. She swore to herself—when they met later, she had to ask if they kissed on the Ferris wheel!

If the three of them wanted to be together, there shouldn’t be secrets like this!

“Hah… hah… They shouldn’t be gone…”

She rushed from the restroom to near the Ferris wheel at top speed. Yuigahama held her knees, panting. She anxiously looked left and right.

In the sea of people, she couldn’t confirm if the two were still on the Ferris wheel or had gone elsewhere.

She took out her phone, hesitated briefly, then put it back in her pocket. Wiping sweat cooled by the cold wind, her expression gradually firmed.

“Their date isn’t over. At least until we regroup, I shouldn’t disturb them…”

She murmured softly. To avoid being spotted by them if they passed, Yuigahama looked around. She headed to a café with a second-floor terrace.

Others might not accept it, but as Yuu’s official girlfriend, she was truly willing and actively made this choice—let her boyfriend date her best friend once to catalyze their somewhat awkward relationship.

Face your feelings, everyone!

Besides, only by doing this could Yuigahama gain both friendship and love. She could fulfill her wish without losing anything.

She’d long given up on a normal romantic relationship.

And reality proved her choice right. Her plan was unexpectedly successful.

After secretly observing all day, the two’s closeness clearly increased. Both Yukino and Yuu’s gazes toward each other had changed—no need for a kiss to know, it was the sweet-and-sour scent only couples have, different yet natural.

Yes, this was the stage she wanted to see!

Yuigahama was very satisfied with today’s results. She even oddly felt the fulfillment and loss of watching her own child finally marry.

For them, today’s date would surely be an unforgettable memory!

Though dusk had fallen and it was nearly time to regroup and leave, Yuigahama wanted this precious memory to have a perfect enough ending.

So, she had to keep hiding. She couldn’t appear and interrupt their alone time until the two actively contacted her or they left the park together.

And all the jealousy and hurt built up during this time, she’d find a moment and make Yuu properly compensate her privately…

“Come to think of it, I really am a model girlfriend, right? Hehe, Yuu-kun will definitely praise me when he finds out~”

Yuigahama couldn’t help chuckling softly. She casually bought coffee at the counter and eagerly walked to the second-floor terrace.

Stepping onto the Italian-style wooden floor, she looked left and right, wanting a good spot to view the Ferris wheel area and confirm if they were nearby.

But before reaching the railing edge, she heard someone in the corner say her name.

“Yuigahama-san, you finally came.”

Yuigahama startled, suddenly turning toward the familiar voice.

“Ma-Masuzu?!”

A beautiful girl with silky silver hair held binoculars, smiling brightly at her. Her right hand slowly formed a thumbs-up, placed in front of her chest.

“YES—” Her lips curved. The thumb suddenly tilted sideways, sliding down gracefully and quickly. “I am!”

Yuigahama’s eyes widened. She reflexively shouted, “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part Three, Avdol’s signature pose!”

“Correct. Didn’t expect you to watch JoJo too.” Masuzu nodded satisfied, a genuine smile on her face. “You’re truly the only friend I acknowledge. Fate has decided we’re together.”

“Ahaha, I don’t even know when I started watching JoJo… Actually, Masuzu watching JoJo is the weirdest thing. It doesn’t suit you at all.”

Scratching her short ponytail, she laughed awkwardly twice. Yuigahama unconsciously ignored the last line. Her gaze swept the figure leaning on the railing, holding binoculars. She couldn’t help asking confusedly:

“Masuzu, you came to the amusement park alone?”

“Alone, yes. But not to play.” With a mysterious smile, Masuzu waved at her. She pulled another pair of binoculars from her bag and shoved it into her hands.

“You must be tired following them all day.”

Yuigahama blinked dumbly, only then reacting. Her expression turned terrified.

“Eh?! You, why—”

Seeing her so shocked she nearly dropped the item, panicking like caught stealing bread by a teacher in class, Masuzu’s lips curved wildly. Finally, she couldn’t help laughing heartily. Her elegant, dignified skin peeled away, her bad nature clear.

“Yui-chan, you’re so slow~ You followed them but didn’t notice I was following you. This is the proverb of the mantis stalking the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind, right?”

“How did you know… Wait, why follow me?!” Asking in disbelief, Yuigahama unconsciously stepped back twice. She still didn’t fully grasp the situation. “Even if you wanted to follow, you should follow Yuu-kun…”

“You’re right. I was following him.” Under her suddenly realizing gaze, Masuzu snapped her fingers cheerfully. She said slowly, “But while following, I happened to find a comrade like you. Seeing you enjoy stalking more than me, I felt bad interrupting your fun. I didn’t greet you.”

“What fun. I’m not following because I like it…” Yuigahama muttered. She took the binoculars and examined them. Only then did she realize.

This half-foreign noble silver-haired girl even bought backup gear for stalking!

Impressive. Was this a professional stalker from overseas?

Though admiring, Yuigahama still had something to say.

She stared at Masuzu, her gaze gradually serious.

“Masuzu, though it’s weird for me to say, reduce near-criminal stuff like this…”

But before guiding the lost girl back to the right path, Masuzu reached out, openly cutting her off.

“First, I personally don’t like stalking either. No Golden Spirit at all.”

Yuigahama blinked. She didn’t say it, but didn’t believe it in her heart.

Masuzu shrugged helplessly, too lazy to explain. She continued, “Second, I don’t have your strong heart to watch others date and flaunt affection all day from behind… The reason I’m still here is purely because I feel something interesting will happen today.”

She pursed her lips, smiling with interest. “Reality proves my instinct right.”

“Something interesting?”

Under Yuigahama’s confused gaze, Masuzu turned and leaned on the wooden railing. She held the binoculars to her eyes, pointing in one direction.

“Look there. At the Ferris wheel exit corner, that shadowed spot.”

Though her face still showed confusion, Yuigahama hesitated briefly. But she couldn’t resist the strange curiosity and anxiety in her heart. She stood beside her, took the binoculars, and looked the same way.

Soon, the ponytail girl couldn’t help exclaiming, “Found them! That’s Yuu-kun and Yukinon… Eh? Why is Haruno-san there too?”

“This is today’s most interesting show. Your luck is great. You met me right at the opening.” Masuzu laughed carelessly. Her arm unintentionally reached Yuigahama’s waist, gently pulling her close.

Shadows touched closely. To others, they looked like close friends, right?

Though the fact both held binoculars watching the crowd below was oddly hard to explain… But Masuzu’s goal was basically to be on the same side as Yuigahama.

As long as she didn’t find it weird, it was fine. Others’ opinions didn’t matter to her.

Thinking so, Masuzu slightly shifted her gaze from the distant scene. She secretly glanced at the ponytail girl beside her.

Silently, she smiled softly. She didn’t know why herself.

Though not a way to get close to Yuu, she genuinely wanted to get along with Yuigahama.

And as fellow peeping friends, now was the best time to warm their relationship—honestly, since spotting Yuigahama sneaking at the park gate, Masuzu had been waiting for this scene.

Compared to Yuu facing the sibling horror below, her luck today was like getting consecutive gold and rainbow items for free in a mobile game!

Masuzu’s eyes sparkled happily. She leaned her head closer, secretly sniffing the scent in her hair—Mm, besides shampoo, there was strong sweat from running…

Wait, is this toilet smell?

Ugh…

“Interesting show? What are you talking about, didn’t they just run into each other…”

Confusion and shock filled her mind. She didn’t notice the person beside her planning an attack. Yuigahama muttered somewhat anxiously.

Through high-magnification binoculars, she focused on the three’s interactions and expressions. But she couldn’t understand what they said. She only knew Yuu’s expression didn’t look good.

“…Ahem, I don’t know that. With someone like Haruno-san, anything she does isn’t surprising.”

Taking deep breaths of terrace air several times. After secretly distancing from Yuigahama, Masuzu took the binoculars again. She refocused on the Ferris wheel exit show. She said simultaneously:

“Though not expert, I can lip-read. I’ll translate synchronously for you.”

“Eh? Is this really okay…”

Yuigahama couldn’t help hesitating. She wasn’t even surprised Masuzu knew lip-reading. She just struggled internally—should she observe with her up here or rush down to their side and face the sudden Haruno together.

Hearing her hesitant tone, Masuzu said carelessly, “What’s not okay? They have their own business to settle. If there’s an issue, just call and check, right?”

“Remember, we’re observers now.”

“Nngh…” Yuigahama bit her lip. She didn’t argue.

She just murmured inwardly: (Masuzu is an observer, true. But I’m not…)

Her boyfriend and best friend were dating, intercepted by her sister who’s also a love rival. Logically, she should rush down to help.

But for some reason, she accepted Masuzu’s suggestion just like that.

Not moving, Yuigahama stood before the second-floor terrace railing. She watched the ground scene through distant binoculars. At the same time, she listened to the girl beside her softly, melodiously translating lip-read words one by one.

“This, how, could…”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“How could this happen?”

Her hand grip slowly tightened. Yukino snapped from shock. She frowned, biting her lip. She looked up at the man she already liked. Anxiety trembled in her eyes.

But seeing his stiff expression, the cold girl recalled words the other once said. She quickly closed her eyes, took a deep breath. Her expression slowly calmed.

When she opened them, her dark blue gaze was sharp as ice knives. All anxiety and doubt vanished completely.

Amid her flowing black hair, Yukino stepped forward, standing before Yuu.

Her back straight. Expression solemn. She locked eyes with Haruno’s lightless cold ones. No hint of retreat.

“Ex-boyfriend? Dating in July? I don’t want to be too rude, but Nee-san, you really should see a psychiatrist.”

Haruno’s gaze slowly shifted from Yuu’s face. Like a venomous snake flicking its tongue, she smiled softly:

“My foolish little sister, didn’t I say not to interfere in our business?”

Yukino said firmly, “Your business is my business. You have no right to decide!”

She folded her arms politely. She lifted her head and chest. She faced directly the sister she always feared.

Her heartbeat unconsciously quickened.

She felt various hormones secreting rapidly. She didn’t know if her face flushed—couldn’t care now.

So, she deepened her breath, gathering courage.

Cold air cleared her lungs. Her mind was fresher and calmer than ever.

Her voice paused only briefly.

Yukino put on a cold, tense expression. In a natural, flat tone, she openly declared to her sister:

“I am Tenkuji-kun’s girlfriend. If nothing changes, I’ll also be his wife in the future.”

“Even if it’s you, Nee-san, I won’t allow you to interfere with my partner repeatedly.”

“And the current me has the right to say this to you—”

She uttered each word, as if piercing the other’s heart.

“Please like someone else and stop thinking badly of my boyfriend!”

“…”

Silence lasted briefly.

As if the world lost sound. Countless joys and laughter evaporated from the park.

The air was dead and cold like Haruno’s eyes.

No waves appeared. It pressed heavily on their three shoulders.

Slowly, a sneer emptier than a cold smile curved her lips. Haruno didn’t hide her contempt for her sister. She sneered:

“Finally admitting it? Like cats, so you became a thief cat yourself?”

“Sorry, not everyone who breaks your heart is called a thief cat.” Yukino retorted unrelentingly. “How about introspecting why you’re unpopular?”

They glared at each other. They let the surrounding temperature plummet. Killing auras rose.

Though the sisters’ tones were colder than December’s winter wind, a faint burning smell hung in the air. As if a volcano gathered energy under their feet, ready to erupt and topple everything on the ground.

Influenced by this atmosphere, the crowd near the Ferris wheel unconsciously circled them. They all looked over, slowly forming a clear empty ring around the three striking figures.

Just as their testing ended. The love rivals’ gazes froze cold. They prepared to officially attack each other.

Blocked behind Yukino, Yuu finally stepped forward.

He used a deliberately softened voice to break the frozen cold air:

“You two, don’t fight over me yet. Listen to me.”

But the always-effective Word Bullet bounced back off the same ice wall, failing.

His very sincere words only got two cruel responses—

“I said I’d protect you. Stay quiet behind me.”

“I’ll deal with you later. Let me punish our family’s thief cat first.”

-

Title: The Sisters’ Battlefield Continues

The weather forecast said no rain today.

So, perhaps as night approached, the sky slowly shifted from gray to dark. The clouds looked heavy, as if about to drip. It felt like invisible pressure blanketed the entire amusement park.

The cold wind gradually stopped. Though the temperature neared ten degrees Celsius, it was stifling, making the whole body feel hot.

At the Ferris wheel exit, the atmosphere formed by two women and one man felt like a vacuum—heavy, hard to breathe.

“You’re blood sisters, why fight over me…”

His advice fell flat. Yuu held his forehead, sighing heavily in pretense.

Unfortunately, like a clown performing in the wrong place, neither paid him any mind.

Standing gallantly like a knight, Yukino pressed her soft lips tightly. With a solemn expression, she blocked in front of him, not allowing the person ahead to breach her rear territory even slightly.

Smiling brightly like the Virgin Santa, Haruno narrowed her sickle-like crescent eyes. A gentle yet unstoppable cold aura mercilessly pressed her sister. Faint cold flames flickered in the depths of her eyes.

They glared at each other. Sparks seemed to crackle in the air.

After a moment, Yukino broke the deadly silence first.

“Why are you here? You didn’t come all this way just to ruin our schedule, right?”

Haruno kept smiling. “I said I just want to meet my ex-boyfriend. New thief cat, step aside quick, okay?”

Yukino rolled her eyes lightly, habitually mocking in a sarcastic tone. “That again? I feel sorry hearing it.”

Haruno immediately dropped her smile, showing a similar yet different sneer. “Heh. A fool like you who knows nothing, blinded by split love and turning against your sister—I’m the one who feels sorry. Hah, it makes me laugh. Why do I have such a stupid little sister?”

Yukino remained unfazed, retorting coldly. “Oh? Then what do you know about him? That he hates sweets, or his eyebrow rises a centimeter when lying? Sorry, I knew those by the fifth day of knowing him.”

Haruno raised an eyebrow, folding her arms, refusing to yield. “Then, do you know he can break a strength-testing machine with one punch and sneak into a heavily guarded vacation home undetected?”

Yukino: “Have you eaten food he cooked himself? Made lunch with him for his little sister and underclassman?”

Haruno: “Have you been hugged and kissed by him on stage, seen by many? Driven around with him everywhere, leaving your own traces?”

Yukino: “Have you seen him ask for help?”

Haruno: “Have you seen him kneel on one knee?”

Neither backed down.

One sentence for one sentence. Barely giving the other breathing room.

A word battle unfolded multiple times in mere seconds. Less about fighting for love, more like two cunning assassins cautiously probing, seeking a chance for a fatal strike.

Yukino, instinctively doing this, shouldn’t beat Haruno, who never stopped calculating. Sooner or later, she’d lose and run out of words.

But before truly falling behind, she suddenly stopped. Frowning, she stared at Haruno’s expression, searching for lies. She fell silent, lost in thought.

“…Didn’t expect your imagination to be so rich. You speak as if it’s real.”

Yukino sighed softly, calming again. Her aggressive, attacking kitten-like anger temporarily receded.

Haruno sneered. “You dare say that about such small things? Underestimating your big sister too much?”

“Those are all real things between him and me. Better than the silly fantasies you keep piling on.”

“Hah—that’s why I say you’re an outsider who knows nothing.”

Haruno shook her head, sighing pityingly. She suddenly curved her lips meaningfully. “Yukino, aren’t you curious about what I just said? Don’t pretend to be slow. You should feel I didn’t come all this way just for unrequited or one-sided love, right?”

She paused. Her soft voice coaxed, trying to lure her into her own trap.

“You know him, but don’t you know me? Coming this far, was nothing really between us? Just fantasies driving all this? Is the big sister you chased since childhood but never caught up to, truly an incurable foolish madgirl?”

“…Yes, even with your bad personality, no reason to be this crazy.”

Though shaken briefly, Yukino’s gaze stayed calm. She warily watched Haruno.

“But so what? Whatever the issue, I’ll ask him myself later. No need to guess your intentions! I’m not stupid enough to believe a troublemaker’s words.”

“Tch, so stubborn.”

Seeing her unmoved, Haruno bit her nail, muttering annoyedly. “Talking more is useless. Can’t show proof…”

Thinking this, she changed topics. “Then ask now! Ask the guy behind you if I’m making it up?”

Without turning, Yukino said naturally, unfazed. “What he’ll tell me later, I don’t need to know in a rush. I just wait for him to say it himself.”

Seeing this expression, Haruno’s gaze shifted slightly. She slowly clenched her hands, falling silent briefly.

“…Yes, but I don’t want to hold back. I’m only getting more impatient.”

Suddenly, Haruno seemed to release all hostility. She lowered her head, voice suppressed, sighing. “I’ve held back long enough. If I keep holding, no one will pity me. So… I actively sought him before being truly forgotten.”

Stepping past her sister, she looked at the youth behind.

Her gaze slowly softened. Brief fragility showed on her face. But she forced calm, smiling helplessly.

“My goal is actually simple. I just want him to admit in front of you… Admit my past existence and those extraordinary experiences aren’t fiction.”

Feeling Yukino’s gaze change slightly, Haruno smiled brightly, looking back. She poked her soft, white cheek.

“Eh? You didn’t really think I came just to steal my little sister’s boyfriend, right? Fight directly, act out a morning drama husband-snatching scene? Even hit my own sister if angry?”

“…”

“Pfft! Hahahaha, so stupid and cute~ Even if yes, I wouldn’t do it so obviously.” Haruno laughed, waving her hand. Her voice soft and cheerful as usual, like winter’s new sunrise. “How embarrassing seen by everyone. I’m not planning to act in a drama or movie. My attitude is serious—I just wanted to scare you two.”

Yukino stared calmly. No expression. She didn’t lower her guard.

Building confrontation was easy, erasing it all and starting over too. Casually polishing everything like a joke—her sister was like that. Could flip to anger next second. Don’t let emotions be controlled by her act.

“Alright, alright, let’s make up for now~” Haruno seemed to sense her tension. She patted her stiff shoulder soothingly. Seeing her frown, she gave up hugging.

Then she looked up, narrowing eyes at Yuu.

Still smiling, but her tone sank subtly.

“So, you’ve watched the play long enough. You should respond.”

“Whether my business or Natsukawa-san’s… Yukino-chan, can you say it all here?”

Yuu: “…”

“Not just you, this involves Natsukawa-san too?”

Hearing this, Yukino couldn’t help turning to him. Her face showed slight anxiety and confusion. She and her sister formed a two-sided gaze encirclement.

These sisters, just hostile and spraying each other, now silently agreed to face a certain suspicious man.

“…Haaah.”

Yuu, finally noticed, truly didn’t know whether to rejoice or sigh exhaustedly.

He didn’t feel much tension from being forced to confess. Just helplessness spreading in his heart.

(Wow, you finally plan to force me to admit. I really feel like an outsider.)

He was the main cause of their fight…

Clearing his throat, Yuu put on a serious expression.

“I planned to say all I could before you fought… You two fought so fiercely alone, ignoring me, and still blame me for just watching?”

After complaining dissatisfiedly, he skipped nonsense. He locked eyes with Haruno’s calm gaze.

“Honestly, I didn’t want to say these things here.”

Discussing family matters publicly—embarrassment level no less than mom dragging him by the ear in the street.

“No choice, I couldn’t hold back, so I came openly. Didn’t think that much~”

Haruno pouted innocently, shrugging. She glanced at the noisy surroundings. “Or move places and settle all our business privately?”

“I planned that.” During the silent time, Yuu found a hidden corner suitable for talking—behind the stairs where Haruno emerged from shadow. “Let’s go there. But Haruno, hope you’re mentally prepared…”

No panic, retreat, or guilt—Yuu looked directly at Haruno, saying seriously. “I tried being honest with them, your business and what I experienced. But in the end, all blocked by some magical force.”

Haruno startled, blurting reflexively. “You mean that bastard god meddled again…”

“God? Tch, you call him that? Adding bastard fits perfectly.” Yuu muttered amusedly, shaking his head. “Roughly yes. So, no matter how resolute your decision, even changing old clothes to come openly, I’m not sure I can say what I want and you want to know… If I can’t, I’ll use No Comment as substitute.”

He said this flatly, as if expressing helplessness and inability to compromise.

But Haruno seemed oblivious. She just stared with sparkling eyes. A genuine, innocent smile appeared. Longing and satisfaction overflowed in her voice.

“Yuu-chan, I knew you still remember!”

Saying that, she spun in place. Her skirt flew like butterfly wings, elegant and beautiful.

Sleeveless lace yellow top, graceful plain white long skirt, light blue denim jacket over, famous brand white sneakers—though modified with thickness for winter, this outfit matched their old amusement park date.

Of course Yuu remembered.

Besides his good memory, untouched by the System—Haruno, Asuna, or Masuzu. Everything on their separation day, every scene together, even their clothes and hairstyles.

Yuu remembered clearly. Those memories etched deep in his heart, carved with knife and axe. Unlike feelings, he couldn’t forget even if he wanted.

…And just remembering this small thing made her this happy?

Yuu shifted from Haruno’s smile. He glanced at the distant cloudy gray sky, sighing softly.

“Haruno, I can only guarantee you, everything I say next is truth… Won’t lie to you or myself.”

He stepped toward the stairs’ back.

His sleeve tugged. He met those soft dark blue eyes.

“…You coming too?” He asked, though rhetorical.

Yukino immediately frowned, staring coldly with killing aura. “Something I shouldn’t know?”

“Uh… If it’s sayable, seems almost all shouldn’t be known by you…” Yuu smiled awkwardly. Before Yukino revved up and shot freeze beams from her eyes, he raised his hand, rubbing her round little head twice.

“Though I want to talk alone with Haruno, at this point, unrealistic to ask you to step away… Mm, come if you want. It’s your right as girlfriend. Might resolve your long-held confusion.”

“…”

Yukino held the man’s hand. She bit her lip softly. Her eyes sharp as torches. She stared silently several seconds. Who knows what she thought or realized.

Then she turned away. Without much talk, she just tucked beautiful hair behind her ear. She walked gallantly and coolly toward the stairs’ back.

Yuu watched her back. He took a deep breath, letting cold air fill his lungs, stabilizing his wavering emotions.

He didn’t use Calm Water Mirror Heart. This was just honest confession. He believed Yukino could understand his actions.

Of course, assuming no repeat of before—her exploding in love upon realizing Haruno was his ex-girlfriend.

“Yukino, do you trust me?”

Yukino’s steps halted. Without turning, she seemed to sigh lightly.

“Don’t use sly questions like that… Anyway, I’ll know immediately if you lie.”

“Mm.” Yuu couldn’t help smiling, feeling slightly relieved.

Suddenly someone pushed him. Unfortunately unmoving. He stood firm before stumbling.

Haruno patted his back, passing him. Her face still that friendly smile. But not as cold and scary as before, full of pressure.

“Yuu-chan, this time I came fully resolved.” She narrowed her eyes, saying meaningfully.

“What resolve?”

“You’ll know later. Hope you don’t disappoint me.” Haruno cheerfully raised her brows, following Yukino’s steps. “I came far to interrupt your date. Not just jealousy… You should prepare mentally too.”

Yuu frowned slightly, catching up in two or three steps. “Please don’t do weird things again.”

“Teasing, ex-boyfriend has no right to order me! Say that after we get back together!”

She tilted her head, sticking out her tongue mockingly. Her tone showed annoyance. But she laughed like that summer—innocent, pure, frank, full of love.

“Anyway, whatever I do, the starting point is always one—I love you.”

-

Title: Farewell to the Original, the First Love That Ends

Coffee shop, second-floor terrace.

“They’re moving. Starting to head out.”

Like a trained veteran soldier, Masuzu set down the binoculars. She turned toward the stairs with decisive movements.

Yuigahama hurriedly followed. Her expression looked stunned, as if still processing.

She hesitated briefly. Seeing the silver-haired figure waving ahead, she couldn’t hold back from asking, “Masuzu, what exactly is the relationship between Yuu-kun and Yukinon…”

“What you should ask is whether Haruno-san and Tenkiji-kun’s relationship is really as simple as she claimed earlier.”

Walking nimbly like a fairy, Masuzu weaved through the crowd. The corners of her lips showed a pleasant smile. She said unhurriedly, “Of course it’s not that simple, unless Haruno-san has mental issues. But as for the details, I don’t know how to explain it to you.”

“Then, they said something involving you…”

“Hmm, maybe that’s the reason I fell in love at first sight with Tenkiji-kun?” Saying it casually, Masuzu raised her hand. She unconsciously touched the curve of her lips. A thoughtful expression appeared in her eyes.

Back then, when she said these words—even if just joking—disgust would reflexively rise in her heart. She’d want to stomp the letters forming those words into dust and spit on them.

The old Masuzu deeply hated anything related to love.

…But now, there was someone she could treat specially.

Though she remembered nothing, though she knew little about Tenkiji Yuu’s affairs, he occupied a crucial corner of her heart—so crucial it unconsciously influenced the beliefs she lived by.

Like a master key, he easily unlocked her heart and rearranged the furniture inside as he wished.

And those three now were likely discussing this reason—as one of the involved parties, Masuzu felt she had the right to eavesdrop openly.

Whether Yuigahama knowing this would cause trouble for Yuu… She didn’t care at all.

Love or hate, Masuzu just wanted her memories back and to use any means to fulfill her increasingly insatiable desire.

“Haruno-san, and Masuzu too… What really happened…”

Trailing behind, Yuigahama’s brain was in chaos from too much information and mysterious people around. She didn’t know where to start untangling the messy threads around her boyfriend.

She could only rush toward the Ferris wheel with Masuzu.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“Haruno, I need to tell you one thing first.”

No honorifics, using the same tone as that summer.

Yuu ignored Yukino’s cold observing gaze from behind. He looked at the college student ahead. He said earnestly, “Though I still have past memories, all feelings that arose because of you vanished after you lost your memories.”

“…”

As if expecting this, Haruno’s expression wasn’t too shocked. She touched her beautifully curved chin. She narrowed her eyes, pondering briefly.

“Meaning, you’ve been so cruel to me since I lost my memories not to avoid the past, but because you truly have no feelings for me anymore? So, even with memories intact, you won’t do anything special to restore mine or return to our old intimacy?”

Yuu nodded. “Like childhood friends long out of touch. I thought since you forgot the past, we’d live peacefully apart. No more interfering in each other’s lives… Who knew you’d suddenly regain your memories.”

“Yes, God’s jokes are unpredictable.” Haruno smiled, agreeing. But her tone emitted a faint dangerous aura, like a hidden knife behind the smile.

“If I hadn’t kept feeling something off since losing my memories and persistently bothered you, maybe by now I’d have stopped caring. I’d let you live happily as a trio with my sister and her friend—Ah, come to think of it, did I wrong you? Sorry~~”

“Ahem ahem…”

Such high sarcasm intensity.

Not just ahead, the gaze behind grew sharper. Yuu could only clear his throat twice, forced to defend himself. “You can’t say that. It’s not like I wanted you to lose your memories…”

Haruno shrugged, neither confirming nor denying. “Yes, you didn’t. So I deserve your cruel treatment. Reviving old love just burdens you. That’s why I apologize. Tenkiji-kun, forgive me.”

“…”

Such strong, thick resentment—she must have held it in.

Yuu somewhat understood her feelings. So he didn’t say much, just sighing helplessly.

And that victim expression frustrated Haruno more. She unconsciously lifted her heels, taking a deep breath to suppress her emotions.

Meanwhile, Yukino behind Yuu looked confused. She seemed to want to ask something. But bound by her promise not to interrupt randomly until they finished, she could only stay silent, lips tightly pressed, arms folded, observing the two like a judge.

“Hmph… Forget it. Who made my boyfriend abnormal? Unusual situations call for unusual responses.”

Saying that, Haruno lowered her folded arms. After a light breath, she looked at Yuu with calm eyes.

“Though I have many questions for you, the most important now is confirming your stance.”

“My stance is clear. Since my feelings were taken by God, even with memories, to me you’re just… Yukino’s big sister.”

Without hesitation, Yuu directly met that determined, emotional gaze.

Even if reality was cruel and heartless to her again, he didn’t want to give fragile soap-bubble hope with lies just to comfort her.

Because in this timeline, the ones he loved were Yuigahama and Yukino. The ones he was responsible for were them, not that once-warm, unforgettable romance.

“Sorry, Haruno… Now there are people more important than you. So forgive me for not reviving old love.”

Of course, that was Yuu’s stance.

Haruno stared silently. Like a statue, she didn’t respond for a long time.

Suddenly, Yuu seemed to see a lake surface.

Her eyes like a winter-frozen lake. Clear and coldly frozen there. All rippling light locked beneath the ice. Sparkling clear, yet not allowing it to melt into tears.

Haruno expressionless. But in the lake’s depths, lingering sadness and pain slowly surfaced.

She bit her lip slowly. With a deep breath, Haruno slightly opened her mouth—and showed her usual bright smile.

“If it’s you, you’d definitely answer like that.”

“Definitely?” Yuu was slightly surprised.

“Yes. Though I didn’t want to imagine it, your attitude toward me hasn’t changed since then. Of course I could guess your answer.” Like a mature adult, Haruno spoke openly. She seemed unbothered by the cruel rejection.

But her fingers and voice trembled slightly.

Noticing that embarrassing reaction in Yuu’s eyes, Haruno clenched her fists. She gently rubbed her nose. She slowly eased her breathing and voice.

“Memories without feelings no longer matter to you, right? Yuu-chan.”

“…” Yuu unconsciously wanted to deny. But before leaving his mouth, his voice was choked by thoughts arising in his heart.

(Wouldn’t it be better to fully part with the past?)

{If you back down and soften here, what if someone else regains memories later? Will you let them fight? The winner continues the old relationship with you?}

(Wouldn’t that be crueler to them?)

(Things that can’t be accepted must stay outside. In the end, as long as Yui and Sora are by my side, it’s enough…)

“So, a rental boyfriend can never become the Original?”

Like grasping the last thread, Haruno asked very seriously.

But after hesitation, Yuu stayed silent, head lowered.

“I see…” Haruno murmured softly, as if realizing. She still smiled.

Whether pale or bitter, this mask must not break.

Because Yuu once said he liked her smile—Haruno, who rarely gave her heart, once she loved deeply, became less rational. She’d think the man’s feelings mattered more than her own.

So stupid. About to be left, why still care about his feelings?

Because stupid, it’s special.

Just like his seemingly cruel but softer-than-anyone choices. Precisely because they both struggled in contradictions, advancing wounded, growing up.

Thus, feelings accumulated until now became so strong she wouldn’t yield even if sad enough to cry, right?

“Yuu-chan, do you still remember?”

Haruno smiled. Suddenly she stepped forward.

“I sought you as a rental boyfriend to experience love. We met without liking each other—July 24, I still didn’t like you.”

Under Yukino’s shocked gaze, she stepped again.

“First date at the sports center. You were like God-sent to knock me back. You crushed me in every activity. You passed all my tests. It made me know such a monster exists—July 26, I started caring. I thought you could give me a good love experience.”

One more step. Haruno stood before Yuu. She looked up at his stunned face.

“I once thought fakes couldn’t become real. Created lies and loneliness could only continue endlessly. Someone like me should sacrifice future for family, small self for greater… Dating might only happen in affairs.”

Haruno smiled brightly, as if no sadness could leave a mark. Her eyes sparkled, clear as starry skies.

“Before God changed the world, you already changed me.”

“That’s why I love you so much. Like loving this life with you in it, like loving this world with you in it.”

She raised her hand, as if to touch his face. But after brief hesitation, she lowered it. She reached into her bag instead.

In the dark stair corner, only her voice clear as morning light.

“We kissed at the mall event. Hugged on the resort balcony. All places we visited, delicious foods we ate, and that last night, the vows we made together at the amusement park, the future we decided…”

Haruno took a deep breath. She slowly stopped smiling. She looked at Yuu seriously, almost coldly.

“If you want to forget all this, if you decide to discard it, if you truly want to pretend nothing happened… Tell me you hate me.”

“Then, from today, we part completely—I’ll beg my parents to let me study abroad. You won’t need to worry about running into me.”

More than firmness, it was tragedy.

Discarding all weakness, suppressing knife-like emotions, she slowly pulled a bracelet from her bag.

Carefully wrapped in plastic. It showed how precious. Even in the dimly lit stair back, it softly sparkled like clear crystal.

Yuu stared at the bracelet. Images slowly emerged in his mind. He unconsciously remembered many things.

His eyes widened. He asked somewhat disbelievingly, “Is that handmade…”

Handmade bracelet. The gift he once made from start to finish for Haruno, to leave the most beautiful memory.

Though simple, all his reluctance and blessings were woven in. It held purer, denser sincerity than a wooden comb.

Unfortunately on the way to the hotel, whether snagged or poorly tied, the beads came loose and fell. Haruno wanted to pick them up, but he stopped her, saying no need.

Things meant to vanish would, sooner or later.

“Yes. I spent days specially making a prettier bracelet than the one you gave.”

As if unaware of his increasingly complex expression, Haruno unwrapped it. She gently touched the beads. She said proudly, “And the structure is specially reinforced. It won’t break easily like that day again!”

“…Why?” Yuu opened his mouth. That was all he could ask.

Haruno smiled.

“Because the next thing you said will never come true, right?”

“So, what you couldn’t do, I’ll do for you.”

“You back then, me this time… Everything you gave, feelings you experienced.”

“If this is the end, I want to walk the same path as the one I love most in my memories.”

“This is my most precious Original.”

Amid Yuu’s shocked, speechless expression, Haruno handed him the bracelet. Her smiling eyes sparkled with longing.

“Yuu-chan, extend your left hand for a bit.”

This too was a phrase she once said.

Only then it was full of romance and beautiful light. Now, shadows enveloped them both. Even observers couldn’t help falling silent.

“I’ll give you three seconds. If you don’t extend, it means you’ve answered that you hate me.”

Though Haruno said it casually, every word, every sentence pressed the air. It made Yuu forget to breathe momentarily. He didn’t even know if he should raise his hand.

He just wore a stiff, shocked expression, as if locked in Haruno’s gentle gaze, unable to move.

“Three.”

—Can’t go back. All resolve made. Don’t worsen things.

“Two.”

—Stop yourself here. Fewer hurt the better. After all, this is the System’s fault.

“One.”

—Don’t be threatened. This is all Haruno’s calculation! Think of Yukino, think of Yui. You don’t love her anymore. All pity and sympathy after this are just trash-man choices.

During the mental tug-of-war, the countdown ended.

“Ah, too bad.”

Haruno smiled brightly with relief.

“Looks like my first love ends here.”

-

Title: The Sisters’ Real Battlefield Is Only Over One Man

Haruno laughed more easily than anyone.

Yet tears kept flowing like a broken dam. Unbearable sadness, unbearable heartbreak—along with a deeply slashed heart—poured out thick red blood and clear tears over and over.

Only in this moment did she have no time to put on her mask.

“Haruno…” Yuu murmured unconsciously.

*CRACK!*

The pupils reflecting her face had shrunk to their limit. Deep in his heart, a loud cracking sound suddenly rang out.

Yuu pressed his lips tightly.

“If I’d known it’d be like this, better not to regain the memories.”

Haruno sniffled.

She couldn’t control her stinging, reddened eyes and nose. Nor did she care about her choked, trembling voice.

She just gazed at the man before her with longing in a blurred world. She gazed at memories she once thought would be beautiful forever with longing.

And she said softly, “I love you, Yuu-chan.”

“Back then, yes. Now, yes. Tomorrow, yes too.”

“But the future won’t be.”

Her weak, trembling jaw suddenly clenched. Her face turned fierce. Both hands yanked the bracelet’s ends. She sneered, as if satisfied:

“Something like this shouldn’t have existed from the start!!”

The bracelet suddenly tensed. The beads shook violently. A creaking sound neared its limit from within.

Yukino’s eyes widened. Still recovering from shock at seeing her sister cry, her body reflexively dashed forward. She reached out and shouted:

“Wai—”

Should she stop it? Unknown.

Was this right? Unknown.

She just suddenly felt that if she let her destroy the bracelet like that, perhaps the big sister who truly smiled would vanish from her forever…

Whatever the future, it was an outcome Yukino didn’t want to see.

But such thoughts and movements only flashed for a second. They were instantly cut off by the figure blocking in front.

His body no longer stiff. His mind no longer hesitant.

Yuu directly grasped Haruno’s hands. He easily neutralized her strength. He successfully reclaimed the intact bracelet.

After pulling his hand back, his clear voice followed the motion, completely shattering the silence and pallor in this shadow.

“You win, Haruno.”

“…What do you mean?”

Tears still flowing. Haruno stared fixedly.

Yuu lowered his head. He looked at the cheap plastic bead bracelet. Unsure what expression to show, he chose blankness.

“I love Yuigahama Yui. I love your little sister too… And now, though my feelings haven’t returned, I absolutely can’t hate you.”

Yuu said this almost through gritted teeth. Like complaining, like mocking himself. His gaze full of regret and confusion.

A thousand words condensed into one sentence—

“Meaning, you woman are just too cunning!”

Who could bear not being moved by a farewell like this?

“…”

Yuu had known long ago: if Yukino was ice crystal, Haruno was a piece of glass.

The stronger the sunlight, the brighter she became. She’d turn dark and silent at night. Strong alone, yet fragile. When shattered, the fragments would fly, wanting to hurt the one who hurt her until both lost.

Getting involved with her meant being troubled to death.

“Really…”

He slowly clenched his fist. Feeling the lingering warmth on the bracelet, the corners of his lips curved slightly.

In the end, he didn’t know why—he laughed. Painful and helpless at once.

“Fate never goes as humans wish.”

After lamenting, Yuu raised his head again.

He saw Haruno’s tear-streaked, utterly messy face. He sighed. He pulled out a handkerchief.

“Here. Don’t make a face like I’m bullying you… You only lost love. I have to keep fighting Almighty God here.”

Seeing Haruno still staring stunned, as if not reacting to what he did, Yuu directly pressed the handkerchief to her still-beautiful, makeup-smeared face. He wiped haphazardly.

…Just like the memories.

Though once lost, as long as he could think, as long as he had a heart, the future would gather new things. It would continue like this.

Taken, erased. Then they met again. Similar yet different feelings arose. The heart’s lake rippled again because of the other.

Firmly discard? Impossible, unless memories vanished too.

Just from that one chance encounter at the turn, this life of his was perhaps fated to be endlessly dizzy and stomach-ached by this older big sister.

As if under ashes, new sprouts pierced the soil and grew.

With a feeling of surrender like being defeated, Yuu silently asked the System.

(System, have my feelings returned?)

[Ding!]

[Host’s feelings were revoked by the System and have not been restored]

(Then why do I suddenly find Haruno so cute?)

“…”

As if processing the question, the System paused briefly, then answered calmly:

[The System cannot take feelings unrelated to the Host’s task at the time. Those belong to the Host himself]

(My own, huh…)

Pondering this silently, Yuu suddenly smiled: (Ha, sounds like I was forced to love them because of the task.)

“…”

(Dog System, whether gained or revoked, all my feelings are my own. You’re just the trigger and tool. You have no right to influence who I like or dislike. Got it?)

[That should be the case. Please continue working to complete the task]

After this emotionless line, the System seemed to go offline, no longer responding.

Yuu also withdrew his consciousness. He looked again at the older big sister. She obediently let him clean her face.

As for his girlfriend’s current expression, he didn’t dare look for now.

“Haruno.”

“Hmm~?”

No trace of the earlier firmness and cruelty. Haruno answered softly. She blinked, gazing at him hopefully.

Yuu hesitated—No. A 0.3-second hesitation shouldn’t count. He prepared to flee. He said sincerely and honestly:

“Like or dislike aside first. Accepting your bracelet—does that mean I might get to cheat with three women?”

The air froze in that instant.

At this moment, Yuu finally witnessed the speed and limit of human facial expression changes, and how a rainbow of colors appeared on someone’s face.

He grew even less daring to see what expression the source of the freezing aura behind him now showed.

“…”

After brief silence, Haruno showed a thoughtful look. She nodded consideringly. She seemed to fully agree with his idea.

“Hmm hmm, I see. Oh well, men think like this. What can you do…”

She suddenly grinned widely. She brushed away the handkerchief on her face. She said sweetly to Yuu:

“Darling, it’s okay.”

Yuu’s eyes widened in shock.

“Really!?”

“Yes…”

Her smile vanished instantly. Her gaze calm as ice. She flipped attitudes faster than turning a book page.

“Just say if you want to die! You trash man who wants sibling donburi!”

“I didn’t say that! Yukino, you have to believe me… Wait, why are you grabbing pepper spray?”

“Hmm? Because I forgot to bring insecticide.”

“That’s too natural, isn’t it!?”

For some reason, Yuu fell into the sisters’ real battlefield aimed solely at him, unable to help smiling in relief even facing pepper spray.

Though this issue couldn’t be called fully resolved, and he still had far more complicated problems ahead…

At least in this moment, he could feel deeply grateful for his clearly wrong choice.

Above the amusement park, the layered clouds slowly dispersed. No rain today, truly.

A clear, clean starry night spread from the distant horizon.