Chapter 4: First-Time Event Participation
It was the end of June, with less than two weeks until the final exams—our last hurdle before summer break. Today, I was at a convention venue with Rinoa-san, attending an event where Yuzha-san was participating.
“Hey, Takumi-kun,” Rinoa-san said, her voice tinged with worry. “Are you sure it’s okay for me to be here? I won’t stick out like a sore thumb?”
“Haha, don’t worry,” I reassured her, chuckling. “You’ll blend in just fine once things get going.”
If anything, she’d probably draw as much attention as Yuzha-san. The thought made me nervous already, though I hadn’t told her yet since Yuzha-san had sworn me to secrecy.
“By the way,” Rinoa-san said, tilting her head, “isn’t it a bit early for you, the sleepyhead, to set a meeting time like this? It’s two hours until the event starts.”
I shrugged at her teasing. It was just past nine in the morning, and the event wouldn’t begin until eleven thirty. If we were just selling books, her question would be valid, but there was a good reason for the early start.
“Don’t call me a sleepyhead,” I said. “The reason we’re meeting this early is—”
“Sorry to keep you waiting, Takumi, Rinoa-chan!” Yuzha-san interrupted, dragging a suitcase and waving enthusiastically.
“Good morning, Yuzha-san,” Rinoa-san said, bowing politely. “Thank you for having me today.”
“No need to be so formal, Rinoa-chan,” Yuzha-san replied, giving her a friendly pat on the shoulder. “I’m just grateful you came.”
I smiled wryly as Yuzha-san’s casual demeanor contrasted with Rinoa-san’s formality.
“It’s tough for just Takumi and me to handle everything,” Yuzha-san continued. “Honestly, you’re a lifesaver, Rinoa-chan.”
“So, I’ll be helping as a cashier, right?” Rinoa-san asked.
“Don’t overthink it, Rinoa-san,” I said. “It’s just like working a register. Take money, hand over books. That’s it.”
“And you can go shopping during breaks,” Yuzha-san added, patting Rinoa-san’s shoulder again to ease her tension. “We won’t leave you alone, so relax and have fun.”
With a confident smile, Yuzha-san gestured toward the venue. “Alright, standing around won’t get us anywhere. Let’s head inside.”
Following Yuzha-san’s lead, Rinoa-san and I entered the venue. Today’s event was an annual affair hosted by a brand company tied to Uezu-san, the manager of Emocion. It doubled as a product launch, featuring not only photo book sales but also photography sessions, runways, and appearances by professional models and actresses alongside cosplayers like Yuzha-san.
The venue was already bustling with setup. Yuzha-san’s booth was in a prime spot along the wall—a so-called “wall circle.” These spots were assigned by the organizers, usually randomly, but larger circles or those with popular leaders expected to draw crowds were placed near walls or shutters to avoid long lines disrupting operations.
There were plenty of details to fill out during registration, but that wasn’t important now. What mattered was that Yuzha-san’s booth would be swarmed with fans once the event started.
Anyway, back to the task at hand. The booth had a table provided by the organizers, cluttered with cardboard boxes. I carefully opened them with a cutter to avoid damaging the contents.
“Checked and confirmed,” I said. “All the books for today’s sale arrived without issues.”
You couldn’t start preparations without ensuring the books were delivered properly.
“Phew,” Yuzha-san sighed, relieved. “No matter how many events I do, this moment always makes me nervous.”
I gave a wry smile, remembering my first event with Yuzha-san when the books hadn’t arrived, and I’d felt my blood run cold.
“Um, so we just set up the books, right?” Rinoa-san asked.
“Yep,” Yuzha-san replied. “But Takumi’s got that covered. Rinoa-chan, come with me.”
“Huh? What’s that mean?” Rinoa-san asked, confused.
Yuzha-san just smiled, saying nothing more. She grabbed Rinoa-san’s hand with her right hand, dragged her suitcase with her left, and started walking.
“Takumi, I’m leaving this to you,” Yuzha-san called. “I’m taking Rinoa-chan to change.”
“Got it,” I said. “I’ll handle things here. Take care of Rinoa-san.”
“Wait, Yuzha-san!?” Rinoa-san cried, reaching out for help as she was dragged away. “Where are you taking me!? Anno-kun, help!”
I waved her off with a grin, ignoring her pleas. I’d pay for it later, but this was part of the plan, so I mentally apologized and got to work setting up alone.
Setup went smoothly, and the event began.
“No running in the venue!” a staff member shouted.
“Last in line, over here!” another called.
As the opening announcement echoed, a flood of people poured in. Some rushed to their target booths, others strolled casually, and groups of friends chatted excitedly about their favorites. With everyone carrying their unique passions, I—
“Sorry, the deluxe edition’s sold out,” I said, manning the register alone. “We still have the new book set available.”
I had Rinoa-san hold the “end of line” sign while Yuzha-san handled fan interactions. Today’s offerings included three items: a deluxe edition (30,000 yen) with two new books, a bonus book, a two-shot Polaroid with Yuzha-san or a one-minute photo session, and three acrylic stands; a new book set (10,000 yen) with the two new books; and individual new books (5,000 yen each). The deluxe edition, limited to thirty, sold out almost immediately.
“Thank you,” I said. “That’s the new book set, 10,000 yen. If you want Yuzha-san’s autograph, line up next to her. Photos and Polaroids are scheduled after four p.m.!”
“Yuzha-san!” a fan exclaimed, holding out a freshly bought book. “Your photos are always amazing! Keep it up!”
“…Thanks,” Yuzha-san mumbled, head down, scribbling her signature.
Her usual energy from before the event or during photo sessions was gone, replaced by a reserved demeanor. This was typical for her at conventions, and her fans were used to it, showing no surprise. As for Rinoa-san—
“Uh, my photo?” she said, flustered. “I’m just helping out, so no pictures… sorry.”
She handled customers smoothly, as expected. What I hadn’t anticipated was how she, holding the sign, drew people like a moth to a flame. Sure, her beauty was a factor, but there was more to it.
“Dude, check it out!” someone whispered loudly. “There’s a super cute maid at Yuzha’s booth!”
“Who’s that cosplayer!?” another said. “A friend of Yuzha’s? Never seen her before!”
“I’m so jealous of that photographer who’s always at Yuzha’s booth!” a third grumbled.
Amid the occasional envy directed at me, the crowd around Yuzha’s booth was buzzing with admiration and confusion over the mysterious beauty organizing the line. The reason? Rinoa-san was wearing a classic black long-skirt maid outfit, a stark contrast to Yuzha-san’s white, angelic maid costume with a daringly exposed neckline. Together, they looked like an angel and her refined attendant—picture-perfect.
“Rinoa-san!” I called. “Can you come help at the register?”
“Y-Yes, got it!” she replied. “But what about the sign—?”
Her calling card effect was more than enough; any more would be overkill. She hesitated, unsure what to do.
“I’ll hold the sign,” a woman at the end of the line offered. “Go help at the register.”
“Oh, thank you,” Rinoa-san said, handing it over and hurrying to the booth.
“Anno-kun, was it okay to give away the sign?” she asked.
“It’s fine,” I said. “Sorry for not explaining clearly. Just handle the register for now. I’ll restock.”
“Got it!” she said, nodding.
We switched places, and I opened boxes to restock while muttering to myself, “This is wild.”
Even compared to the massive summer and winter events, today’s single-day attendance was a tenth of those. Yet, despite printing extra for post-event online sales, only three boxes remained, including the one I’d just opened. Selling out was in sight.
It hadn’t even been an hour, and the pace was staggering.
“Anno-kun, a new book set, please!” a customer called.
“On it,” I said, handing it over and arranging more on the table, silently praying everyone who wanted one could get it and apologizing to those who might miss out.
“Yuzha-san, you okay?” I asked the star of the show.
“…Still okay,” she replied quietly.
The day was long, with Polaroid and photo sessions, plus a runway walk, still ahead. Fan interactions were limited to now, and once the books sold out, the autograph line would clear. Yuzha-san just had to hang in there.
“Takumi, water,” she said softly.
“Got it,” I replied.
The crowd’s noise made it hard to hear her small voice, forcing me to lean in close. Fans called us a “sibling-like duo,” which saved us from misunderstandings, but without that, I shuddered to think what rumors might spread.
“Thanks for your hard work, Anno-kun,” a customer said, handing me a snack. “Share it with everyone.”
“Great photo book again, Anno-kun!” another said. “Can’t wait to enjoy it!”
“Um… could you maybe photograph me someday?” a third asked shyly.
I was thrilled that some recognized me as “Photographer Anno Takumi.” Their praise for Yuzha-san’s photos was great, but being acknowledged for my work gave me a unique joy, making it all feel worthwhile.
As I handled customers, Rinoa-san, now adept at the register, processed payments with a brisk rhythm. She looked every bit the capable maid. Bringing her was the right call, and I’d need to thank her properly later—after ensuring she enjoyed the event as a guest.
“Anno-kun, restock, please!” she called.
“On it,” I said, handing her a new book set, impressed by how reliable she’d become in such a short time.
About an hour and a half later, just before two p.m., our team finished all tasks and finally caught a breath.
“Phew,” Yuzha-san sighed. “We sold out again. Thanks, Takumi. And Rinoa-chan, thank you for helping.”
“It’s nothing,” Rinoa-san said modestly. “I just worked the register.”
“No way,” I said. “If you weren’t here, Yuzha-san and I would’ve been overwhelmed. You were a huge help.”
At Comiket, Uezu-san or Emocion staff would assist, allowing a smoother setup, but today, with Uezu-san on the organizing side and more attendees than last year, we’d have been swamped without Rinoa-san.
“Takumi’s right,” Yuzha-san said. “And that maid outfit looks adorable on you, Rinoa-chan. I bet some people lined up just because of you. I’m a little jealous.”
“Thank you,” Rinoa-san said, blushing. “I’ve always wanted to wear a maid outfit, so I’m happy! But—wait, why am I in a maid outfit!? Explain, Anno-kun!”
“Don’t put this on me,” I said. “Yuzha-san’s the one who suggested it first.”
“You say that with a straight face, but you were all for it!” Yuzha-san countered. “You were more excited than me, picking out which maid outfit she’d wear!”
“So, Anno-kun’s not just an accomplice but the mastermind?” Rinoa-san said, leaning in with a piercing glare.
Normally, I’d stammer and look away, but today, hyped up from waking early and the event’s energy, I was bolder.
“Picking a maid outfit for you was tough,” I said. “I thought about matching Yuzha-san’s but went with the classic one. Good call, right?”
“We vetoed anything too revealing,” Yuzha-san added. “Didn’t want Rinoa-chan feeling uncomfortable from weird stares.”
“Be quiet, Yuzha-san,” I said, shrugging as she teased me with a nudge.
Rinoa-san was a complete amateur compared to Yuzha-san, who was seasoned, or Alice-san, who modeled. Wearing a revealing maid outfit in front of a crowd would’ve been tough, especially for someone with Rinoa-san’s figure. Though, in hindsight, maybe we shouldn’t have put her in a maid outfit at all.
“When it comes to Rinoa-chan, you get so overprotective,” Yuzha-san teased. “Could you spare some of that for me?”
“What, you think I don’t care about you?” I shot back, thinking, If I didn’t, I wouldn’t be your dedicated photographer or turn down other cosplayers’ shoot requests.
“Where’s the sweet Takumi I met years ago?” Yuzha-san sighed dramatically. “You don’t even call me ‘big sister’ anymore. I’m heartbroken.”
“Don’t rewrite history,” I said. “I’ve never called you that, and don’t make Rinoa-san take it seriously.”
Rinoa-san smirked beside me, clearly enjoying this.
“Hehe,” she giggled. “No need to be shy, Takumi-kun. Call me anytime.”
“Enough teasing,” Yuzha-san said, laughing. “Go explore the venue with Rinoa-chan.”
“Was planning to,” I said, standing with a sigh. I couldn’t handle more of their banter, especially if Rinoa-san joined in.
“Is it really okay to leave?” Rinoa-san asked. “There’s still cleanup and stuff, right?”
“It’s fine,” Yuzha-san said. “I’ve got the runway soon, and there’s time before the photo and Polaroid sessions.”
“We didn’t bring you just to work,” I added. “Come on, let’s go.”
“Have fun for me too!” Yuzha-san called, waving us off.
Taking Rinoa-san’s hand, I led her out of the booth and into the event. It seemed like we had plenty of time, but we couldn’t dawdle.
“Are you sure it’s okay to leave Yuzha-san alone, Anno-kun?” Rinoa-san asked, concerned.
“It’s fine,” I said. “She probably wants to make her rounds anyway. We’d just get in the way.”
“No, I mean… can she handle customers alone?” Rinoa-san said. “She seemed like a different person…”
I understood her worry. Yuzha-san’s vibrant pre-event and post-sellout self was a far cry from the painfully shy introvert she became during the event.
“Without you, can she manage?” Rinoa-san asked. “Is that really how she is?”
“Yuzha-san’s a pro at being photographed,” I explained, “but she’s terrible at interpersonal stuff. She was a hardcore introvert before cosplay.”
“Really!?” Rinoa-san said, shocked. “She never seemed like that.”
“By the way, it was Alice-san who got her into cosplay,” I added.
“What?” Rinoa-san said, stunned. “Why Onee-chan?”
It was surprising, especially learning Yuzha-san was shy.
“Apparently, Alice-san was Yuzha-san’s junior at university,” I said. “She taught her about posting on social media and stuff. Yuzha-san says she owes her current self to Alice-san.”
“Onee-chan did that…?” Rinoa-san said, thoughtful. “I can kind of picture her dragging Yuzha-san around. Or is that just me?”
“Nope, not just you,” I said, grinning.
We chatted casually as we walked through the venue. Despite our sellout, the event’s energy was still rising with the growing crowd.
“Everyone here, including Yuzha-san, is incredible,” Rinoa-san said. “It sounds cliché, but I feel this amazing energy.”
“It’s like an extension of a school festival, but not quite,” I said. “This place is filled with everyone’s passions—attendees included. That creates something powerful.”
I glanced around. I’d only photographed Yuzha-san, but events like this always sparked a desire to shoot more people.
“Hey, Anno-kun,” Rinoa-san said, her tone serious. “Can I ask something? It’s been on my mind.”
“What’s up?” I asked, curious.
“Why do you take photos?” she asked.
Her casual question made the world go silent for a moment. It was the second time I’d been asked, but the first time I’d answer properly.
“To capture a fleeting moment of beauty forever,” I said.
“…Huh?” Rinoa-san said, tilting her head, confused.
I chuckled at her reaction and continued. “My dad’s a pro photographer. His photos of my mom were so stunning, even as a kid, I was mesmerized.”
That’s what inspired me to pick up a camera, hoping to one day capture something as captivating.
“So, your first love was your mom in those photos?” Rinoa-san teased, smirking.
“Hahaha, nice guess,” I said, playing along. “Kidding aside, it’s my dad’s words, but I want to capture beautiful moments of people I care about.”
And I’ve already captured it, I thought, glancing at Rinoa-san but keeping it to myself. The moment she smiled, free from her constraints after removing that choker, was exactly what I’d been seeking.
“What’s that look, Anno-kun?” she asked. “Is there something on my face?”
“Nah,” I said. “Just admiring how cute you look in that maid outfit, Rinoa-san.”
“H-Huh!?” she squeaked, blushing. “What’s with the sudden compliment, Anno-kun!?”
“Just saying what I think,” I said. “And you’re the one who said we’d use first names when alone, right?”
“T-That’s true,” she stammered, pouting, her face red. “But saying you’re mesmerized… there’s a flow to conversations, you know… That’s unfair.”
Her flustered muttering was adorable. Time to pay the price for teasing her.
“By the way,” she said, “have you already captured that moment?”
“Who knows?” I said, smirking.
“That reaction means you have!” she said, excited. “Is it Yuzha-san? Which photo? Show me!”
“Sorry, can’t show you,” I said. “Especially not you, Rinoa-san.”
I couldn’t exactly tell her, It’s the moment you smiled.
“What!?” she said. “Why not? Is it some naughty photo you can’t show me!?”
“How’d you jump to that!?” I said. “If anything, the photos I take with you are…”
“Are what?” she asked, leaning closer, forcing me to look away.
Considering our situations and classmate status, the photos with Rinoa-san felt more risqué and taboo than those with Yuzha-san. I was torn between wanting to share them and keeping them to myself.
“My, my,” a voice interrupted. “You two are as close as ever.”
It was Uezu-san, the Emocion manager and event organizer, saving me from Rinoa-san’s interrogation.
“But, Tak-kun,” he teased, “no matter how cute Rinoa-chan’s maid outfit is, no flirting in the venue, okay?”
“Don’t say misleading things,” I said. “We’re not flirting. Right, Rinoa… er, Rinoa-san?”
“Exactly, as Takuni-san said.” Rinoa-san said, smiling. “No flirting here.”
Her deliberate use of my first name in front of Uezu-san felt like retaliation. Uezu-san grinned mischievously, nudging me.
“I see,” he said. “So this is just normal for you and Rinoa-chan? When did you two get so lovey-dovey?”
“Listen to me,” I said, exasperated. “And Rinoa-san, don’t add fuel to the fire.”
I shrugged, knowing this would only get messier. Uezu-san was tough enough, but with Rinoa-san, my supposed ally, joining in, I was doomed to be their toy until they got bored.
“Hehe,” Uezu-san laughed. “I’ll stop teasing you, Tak-kun. So, Rinoa-chan, are you enjoying the event?”
“Yes!” Rinoa-san said. “It’s so stimulating—not in a weird way, but inspiring!”
I sighed in relief internally. I’d hoped exposing her to the unique energy of cosplayers and attendees would inspire her secret photoshoots and her search for her “unknown self.” Yuzha-san’s invitation was perfectly timed, though she likely just needed the extra help.
“Good!” Uezu-san said. “Why not join as a seller next time? Have Tak-kun take tons of photos and make a book like Yuzha-chan’s. It’d sell out, I guarantee it!”
“A seller?” Rinoa-san asked.
“Yep!” Uezu-san said, giving a thumbs-up. “Making a book can reveal a new side of yourself. Right, Tak-kun?”
I nodded. Creating a photo book wasn’t just about taking photos and compiling them. There were countless decisions—costumes, concepts, storylines, locations, timing, design, print runs. It was a mountain of work.
“If you’re interested, ask Yuzha-chan,” Uezu-san said. “She’s a super introvert during events, but she’s top-tier.”
“Can’t I ask Anno-kun?” Rinoa-san said.
“Yuzha-san’s the one who decides concepts and photos,” I explained. “I make suggestions, but she’s in charge.”
“I see,” Rinoa-san said, nodding.
“No need to overthink it,” Uezu-san said. “Start with Tak-kun and you’ll figure it out. That’s how Yuzha-chan did it.”
Rinoa-san put a hand to her chin, thinking seriously.
“No rush,” I said. “Take your time. I’d love to make a photo book for you, Rinoa-san—huh? Yuzha-san?”
My phone buzzed, not with a message but a call from Yuzha-san.
“Hello? What’s up, Yuzha-san?” I asked.
“Takumi, help!” she cried. “I can’t handle this alone!”
“What’s wrong? Are you okay?” I asked, concerned.
“Come quick!” she pleaded. “I can’t do this…”
The call cut off with a beep. Her voice had slipped into full introvert mode, making me more puzzled than worried. She was probably overwhelmed by fans demanding autographs.
“Was that Yuzha-san?” Rinoa-san asked. “Is something wrong?”
“Probably fine,” I said. “I’ll check on her. Come with me, Rinoa-san.”
“Wait, Anno-kun!?” she exclaimed.
Leaving a beauty like her in a maid outfit alone was asking for trouble.
“Sorry, Uezu-san, gotta go!” I said. “I’ll catch up later!”
“Take care!” Uezu-san called. “Say hi to Yuzha-chan for me!”
“Will do!” I replied, grabbing Rinoa-san’s hand and rushing to Yuzha-san’s side.
＊＊＊＊＊
“Alright, here we go—3, 2, 1…!” Yuzha-san called out.
Click, click, click—the shutter snapped rhythmically, matching the steady cadence of her voice. Yuzha-san shifted poses and expressions with each beat, fluid and precise.
The runway show had wrapped up, and with most attendees heading home, Yuzha-san was now handling the one-minute photo sessions for her fans.
“Ten seconds left!” I announced, glancing at the timer. “Ten, nine, eight, seven…”
The photographer, clearly experienced, shot without hesitation—moving closer, stepping back, angling for dramatic low shots. Yuzha-san kept pace, smiling softly one moment, striking a sharp expression the next, bending slightly, balancing on one leg, or extending a hand. It looked effortless, but it was quietly exhausting, especially this late in the event. This was why we limited the deluxe edition to a small batch that sold out instantly.
“Time’s up!” I called as the timer beeped.
The final shutter clicked, and the photographer bowed, saying, “Thank you so much!” before walking away, grinning at the photos. Once they were out of sight, we all stretched, exhaling deeply.
“Great work today!!” we said in unison, clapping to celebrate each other’s efforts.
It felt both endless and fleeting—a fulfilling day.
“Phew,” Yuzha-san sighed. “Rinoa-chan and I are off to change. Don’t cry from loneliness, Takumi.”
“Spare me the teasing and go already,” I replied, waving her off.
The changing rooms had set hours, and lingering meant risking a train ride home in maid outfits.
“Jeez, so cold,” Yuzha-san pouted. “Oh, we’re having an after-party with Uezu-san. You and Rinoa-chan are coming, right?”
“Me too?” Rinoa-san asked, eyes wide with surprise.
“Of course!” Yuzha-san said. “You were the MVP today, Rinoa-chan! Right, Takumi?”
“She outshined you, Yuzha-san, with all your nervous fumbling,” I teased.
“What!?” Yuzha-san protested, her face scrunching into a pitiful grimace. “I did my best! If you’d come back sooner, I wouldn’t have been such a mess…!”
Her teary-eyed, foot-stamping struggle to hold it together was oddly cute, but pointing that out would backfire, so I just shrugged.
“We rushed back as fast as we could,” I said. “But about the after-party—sorry, I’ll have to pass.”
“Why!?” Yuzha-san demanded. “Are you saying Rinoa-chan and I aren’t enough?”
“Exactly!” Rinoa-san chimed in, stepping closer. “You’re one of today’s stars, Anno-kun! You can’t skip out!”
Two gorgeous maids pressed in, their protests overwhelming. I averted my gaze from Yuzha-san’s ample curves and Rinoa-san’s noticeable assets, staring into space to stay composed.
“I’ve still got editing to finish from our last shoot,” I explained. “If I don’t wrap it up soon, I’ll miss the printing deadline.”
“Fine,” Yuzha-san sighed. “If that’s the case, I guess it’s okay if I party all night with Rinoa-chan without your permission?”
“Why ask me?” I said, chuckling wryly. “Get Rinoa-san’s permission, not mine.”
“I’m not her guardian,” I added under my breath. Rinoa-san, far from objecting, grabbed Yuzha-san’s hands with a beaming smile.
“Count me in!” she said. “I was hoping to talk more with you, Yuzha-san. Let’s do it!”
“Perfect!” Yuzha-san grinned. “Forget Mr. Serious over there, Rinoa-chan. Let’s go! I’ll keep you updated, Takumi, so look forward to it!”
“No need,” I said. “Just don’t go too wild, especially with minors around.”
Uezu-san would keep things in check, but an alcohol-fueled Yuzha-san could be unstoppable.
“Enjoy the after-party, Rinoa-san,” I said. “Call me if anything comes up. I’ll come running.”
“Hehe, got it,” Rinoa-san replied. “Good luck with your work, Anno-kun.”
“Hey, Takumi,” Yuzha-san pouted. “You’re way too protective and sweet with Rinoa-chan. Spare some of that for me.”
“I’m already too sweet with you,” I shot back. “Any more, and I’d be out of sugar.”
If I wasn’t sweet enough, I’d be taking on other cosplayers’ shoot requests by now. She needed to appreciate that.
“Well, I’m off,” I said. “Good work today.”
Back home, I dove onto my bed, still in my clothes. The day’s crowds, heat, and constant talking had drained me. My body was sticky with sweat, but the thought of showering felt like too much effort.
“So tired,” I muttered.
I was ready to let gravity pull my eyelids shut and drift into sleep. Tomorrow was a day off—perfect for crashing. But just as I buried my face in the pillow, my phone buzzed. Grumbling about the timing, I checked the screen and sighed before answering.
“Hello… who’s this?” I said, voice heavy.
“Tak-kun!?” Alice-san’s voice blasted through, shattering my drowsiness. “I heard you went to the event with Rinoa-chan. Is that true!?”
I winced, holding the phone away from my ear, then sighed again and sat up.
“Yeah, Alice-san,” I said. “What about it?”
“What about it!?” she exclaimed. “Why didn’t you invite me!? I would’ve taken the day off!”
I could practically see her stomping her feet over the phone. Who even told her Rinoa-san was there?
“Yuki-chan sent me a photo!” she continued. “I wanted to see Rinoa-chan in a maid outfit in person!”
So, Yuzha-san was the culprit, probably snapping a selfie with Rinoa-san during a break. What a hassle.
“I get it,” I said, “but you can’t just ditch work, right? And talk to Rinoa-san directly about this stuff.”
“Don’t be ridiculous!” she cried. “I’m still preparing to fix things with Rinoa-chan!”
“How long are you gonna drag this out?” I said. “Finish preparing already. You’re taking too long.”
“Why are you so harsh!?” she whined. “Do you know how much a dose of truth hurts sometimes? And you’re only this tough on me, not Yuki-chan or Rinoa-chan!”
I heard a thump-thump as she pounded something, probably a table. Were both Yuzha-san and Alice-san starving for kindness? I got that adulthood was tough, but still.
“Come on, you’re an adult,” I said. “Step up. I told you Rinoa-san wants to reconcile too. What happens next is up to you.”
Of course, whether Rinoa-san could be open with Alice-san’s efforts was another issue. They needed a proper sit-down, with one of them taking the first step.
“Ugh…” Alice-san groaned. “What should I do, Tak-kun? Build a time machine and go back?”
“If you’ve got time for that, just tell her how you feel,” I said. “Why call me instead of Rinoa-san?”
It wasn’t that talking to Alice-san was a chore.
“What if she ignores me!?” she said. “Or blocks my number!? I’d never recover!”
“What a pain,” I muttered, my inner thoughts slipping out. “She’s not blocking you.”
Dragging out the past doesn’t lighten the load.
“Just do your best,” I said. “I’ll cheer you on from the sidelines.”
“Wait, Tak-kun!” she protested. “I’m not done! Tell me about Rinoa-chan at the event—”
I hung up before she finished. I’d thought time would fix their issues, but being her sounding board every time was getting old. Still, I wasn’t sure how much an outsider should meddle in their sisterly drama.
“Oh, wait…” I said, a memory surfacing.
I recalled the one time Yuzha-san and I had a huge fight and made up.
“What!?” Rinoa-san exclaimed. “Anno-kun and Yuzha-san fought!?”
Uezu-san had taken us to a private-room izakaya for the after-party. According to Yuzha-san, they’d used the same place last year—close to the venue, with great food and drinks.
“It was just once, years ago,” Yuzha-san said. “A real blowout, right, Yuki-chan?”
About an hour into the party, with fatigue and alcohol loosening his tongue, Uezu-san brought up the “big incident” between Yuzha-san and Anno-kun.
“Haha, you’re exaggerating, Uezu-san,” Yuzha-san said. “It was youthful impulsiveness. I’m way past that now. I was just a bit prickly back then!”
“Don’t act like you’ve changed that much,” Uezu-san teased. “Say that after giving Tak-kun some freedom.”
“What are you talking about?” Yuzha-san huffed, downing her drink and signaling for a refill. “I’m protecting Takumi from vultures. I’m not trying to keep him to myself or make him mine!”
Uezu-san and I exchanged wry smiles as Yuzha-san protested.
“What caused the fight, Uezu-san?” Rinoa-san asked.
“Nothing major,” Uezu-san said, chuckling. “Tak-kun took a shoot request from another cosplayer. Right, Yuki-chan?”
“Yeah,” Yuzha-san said, pouting. “And it was from a super popular cosplayer, no less. The nerve, cheating on me like that… Stupid Takumi!”
She huffed, fuming, as Uezu-san took over. Apparently, when he was still a middle school rookie photographer, right after making his first photo book with Yuzha-san, he got a request from a cosplayer even Rinoa-san’s classmates raved about.
“Man, Yuki-chan was something else back then,” Uezu-san said. “She couldn’t refuse the request, so she tagged along as Tak-kun’s ‘big sister.’”
“No choice!” Yuzha-san said. “Takumi was more cute than cool back then. He needed a guardian, just in case!”
Her words could cause a scandal if overheard, and Uezu-san didn’t miss a beat.
“Yuki-chan,” he said, exasperated, “you know that’s a boomerang, right?”
Even Uezu-san was stunned. If I were there, I’d have said the same.
“So, Anno-kun taking a solo shoot request sparked the fight?” Rinoa-san asked.
“Yep,” Yuzha-san said. “I told him not to take every request because it’s risky, but he was stubborn. Said he wanted to shoot all kinds of people and got all sulky.”
“And you weren’t much better, Yuki-chan,” Uezu-san added. “I told you not to stifle his photographer instincts, but…”
They had a huge argument, and Yuzha-san, too proud to apologize, spiraled into self-loathing, Uezu-san explained.
“How did you and Anno-kun make up?” Rinoa-san asked. “Not just by talking, right?”
“Here’s the thing,” Uezu-san said, grinning. “They did a photoshoot. Tak-kun’s idea. Neither would apologize—Yuki-chan was too stubborn, and Tak-kun didn’t know how. So, they chose a shoot. So very him.”
Uezu-san laughed. Words failed, so they let the camera speak—classic me.
“You can be honest through a lens,” Uezu-san said. “It’s weird, this silent shoot, but every photo Tak-kun took of Yuki-chan was stunning. That shoot got her first ten-thousand-like post, right?”
“Here,” Uezu-san said, showing Rinoa-san a photo, anticipating her curiosity.
It was Yuzha-san lounging casually on a sofa, unguarded yet radiating an almost otherworldly allure. I couldn’t look away.
“Yuki-chan’s honest through the lens too,” Uezu-san said. “The way they synced—Tak-kun capturing the Yuki-chan she wanted to be, and her posing for him—was unreal.”
“After, they both bowed and said, ‘I’m sorry,’ at the same time,” Uezu-san added, laughing as he downed his drink. “It was hilarious.”
“I don’t get it myself,” Yuzha-san said, “but I can’t be honest face-to-face. Through a lens, I can. You’re the same, right, Rinoa-chan?”
“…Huh?” Rinoa-san said, startled.
“You’re getting photos taken by Takumi, right?” Yuzha-san said. “He told me you’re curious about me.”
Clink—the ice in Yuzha-san’s glass chimed as she fixed Rinoa-san with a sly, piercing gaze, making her catch her breath.
“Is that curiosity about the cosplayer ‘Yuzha’?” Yuzha-san asked. “Or… about Yuzha Yuki, Alice Shinomiya’s friend?”
“…You knew?” Rinoa-san said softly.
“I had a hunch before Takumi said anything,” Yuzha-san replied. “But it’s both, right? You want to hear about your Onee-chan from me, don’t you?”
Rinoa-san nodded quietly. “Yes. Alice-san left home right after high school. She was modeling even then, against our parents’ wishes, and had enough money to live alone. That’s all I know. I don’t know what happened after.”
“You want to make up with Alice… with your Onee-chan, right?” Yuzha-san asked gently.
“Yes,” Rinoa-san said. “I want to talk with her like we used to. Because she’s my—”
She stopped short of saying “idol,” as if admitting it felt like defeat.
“If you could just tell her that—” Yuzha-san began, then sighed. “But if it were that easy, you wouldn’t be struggling.”
“Yuki-chan, you’re so tactless sometimes,” Uezu-san teased.
“Shut up, Uezu-san,” Yuzha-san said. “Anyway, take your time, but strike while the iron’s hot. Got any ideas… wait!”
“What?” Rinoa-san asked.
“I can’t do it alone, but this might be the quickest way,” Yuzha-san said. “I’ll need to talk it over, so hold on.”
“You sure, Yuki-chan?” Uezu-san said. “Don’t make drunk promises.”
“Hehe, I’m perfectly sober,” Yuzha-san assured her. “Don’t worry, Rinoa-chan. We’ll help you and Alice reconcile.”
She downed her glass with confidence. Rinoa-san, still uneasy, felt Uezu-san pat her shoulder.
“She’s talking big, but trust Yuki-chan,” Uezu-san said. “And your partner.”
“My partner?” Rinoa-san asked. “You mean—”
No need to say who. In her heart, Rinoa-san whispered the name of the boy she trusted most.
The day after the event, I dragged my still-exhausted body to Yuzha-san’s place. I’d have preferred a café, but she insisted, “Come over for once!” and wouldn’t budge.
“Welcome, Takumi,” Yuzha-san said. “Right on time.”
“Thanks for having me…” I said, stepping inside. “Wow, still so much stuff. Ever think of tidying up?”
Her house was a maze of cardboard boxes from online orders—gifts from fans, not her purchases. I’d been here before, even eaten meals she cooked, but I avoided coming often. Once, she half-jokingly, half-seriously suggested we live together. I firmly declined.
“Rude!” she huffed. “It’s fine! There’s still room to walk.”
A messy house for a top cosplayer? Fans would probably find it endearing.
“Let’s skip the clutter talk,” she said. “You’re here to discuss something only I can help with, right?”
“Yeah,” I said, nodding. “It’s about…”
“Hehe, relax,” she said. “I’ve got something to talk about too—Rinoa-chan and Alice. Perfect timing.”
“You too?” I said, surprised.
It hit me that her call last night and this meeting today were odd. Normally, we’d both crash the day after an event.
“I knew the moment you called,” she teased. “You’re so soft on Rinoa-chan.”
“Soft?” I said. “I’m softer on you, if anything.”
“Really?” she said, smirking. “Then it’s fine if I stay over at your place, right? If you spent a night with Rinoa-chan, you can with me.”
“…How’d you know that?” I asked, my face blank with shock.
“Rinoa-chan told me last night,” Yuzha-san said. “Said you were adorable, all clingy. I got a bit jealous.”
My head throbbed. What was Rinoa-san thinking, telling Yuzha-san of all people? Was she drunk on the vibe?
“Jealous?” I said. “We’re not dating. Don’t say weird stuff.”
“It’s not weird,” she said, leaning closer, her expression dangerously alluring, like a lion eyeing a lamb. “I’ve asked you before—when are we living together? You’re the one dodging the question.”
“Enough with the jokes, Yuki-san,” I said, flustered.
“Hehe, good call,” she said. “If you’d said ‘Yuzha,’ I might’ve pounced.”
“Please keep your sleep-talk to bedtime,” I begged.
“Not sleep-talk,” she said, “but fine, another time. Let’s talk about the Shinomiya sisters. I bet we’re thinking the same thing.”
She sat on the sofa, patting the spot beside her. I sighed and joined her.
“How do we get those stubborn sisters, who love each other but can’t be honest, to reconcile?” she said, pausing dramatically with a sly grin.
Her expression confirmed we were on the same page, and I felt a spark of excitement. The way to help them make up was—
＊＊＊＊＊
The night after the event, I was having dinner with my family—minus Onee-chan, of course.
“Rinoa,” my father said gently, “exams are coming up. Are you studying properly?”
“Yes, no issues,” I replied, my tone stiff and formal.
The lively atmosphere from last night’s after-party with Yuzha-san and Uezu-san was nowhere to be found. The table was steeped in tension, suffocating me. I could barely taste the food or register what I was eating.
“Summer break’s coming,” my mother said. “Don’t slack off. College entrance exams are right around the corner. Have you chosen a university?”
“Not yet…” I admitted.
“Honestly,” she sighed, her tone dripping with exasperation as she shrugged. “You haven’t even picked a major, have you? You’ll get left behind if you keep dawdling.”
To my mother, who built a top-tier company from nothing in just a few years, my slow decision-making must seem infuriatingly sluggish.
“Sorry,” I said. “I haven’t found what I want to do…”
“Don’t be naive,” she snapped. “Forget this nonsense about doing what you love. Adults have to do things they don’t want to far more often.”
“…Yes,” I mumbled.
“You’ve got time,” my father said. “No need to rush. It’s your life, Rinoa. Think carefully to avoid regrets.”
“You’re always spoiling her!” my mother huffed, visibly irritated. “That’s why Alice got so full of herself—!”
Her frustration and my father’s attempts to calm her were a tired routine. I was fed up.
I wanted out of this house, like Onee-chan. I wanted to escape this cage. But unlike her, I wasn’t earning enough to live independently. It hit me how Onee-chan had planned her future early, while I was still floundering.
All I could do was finish dinner, retreat to my room, study for exams, and think about finding my “unknown self”—through my shoots with Anno-kun. Those moments were my only refuge in this house, my irreplaceable sanctuary.
Suppressing a sigh, I resumed eating when my phone buzzed in my pocket. It was a message from Anno-kun, rare for him. My heart, sunk to the ocean floor, surged upward as I read it.
“Rinoa-san, can I take your photo?”
An invitation to shoot—rare and thrilling.
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