Chapter 9 The Shirayanagi Festival

The next morning.

The day of the cultural festival.

(Everything happened so fast...)

Actually, my memory of this last week was almost non-existent.

I’d basically been living at Sensei’s house, receiving her "demonic" lessons... what happened after that? I think my life had just become a cycle of practicing until I collapsed into a half-conscious sleep.

"Hey, Iori-kun! No sleeping! You missed that part—twenty more times!"

"N-no... my fingers... they won't move..."

"You’re fine! Here, I’ll give you a massage!"

...Yeah.

I should stop. Recalling it was giving me a headache.

It was all out of love, I told myself. Keep believing that, Iori.

"Time to go."

Just before leaving, I took one look back.

The familiar entryway. But there was no sound. No sign of another person. I was finally getting used to the loneliness.

But still...

(This place really is... a bit too big for one person.)

A two-story house. Living here alone felt empty. It felt like it was meant for at least two.

"—I’m heading out."

Naturally, there was no one to answer back.

"Yo, Iori."

"Morning."

I ran into Renji just as I arrived at school. It was 8:30 AM. Meeting time was at 9:00, so we were early. I was one thing, but it was surprising to see him here at this hour.

I had a feeling I knew why, though.

"So, how are you feeling?"

His voice was casual, but a bit stiffer than usual. I didn't even have to ask what he was talking about.

"I guess I’m doing okay."

"Oh?"

Renji leaned in, looking surprised.

"Man, I thought for sure you’d look like death warmed over. You actually look... confident?"

"Hardly."

I had no confidence. This wasn't confidence; it was resignation. I’d done what I could, so whatever happened, happened.

In other words: desperation.

"What about you? You look a little nervous."

Renji’s reaction was hilariously obvious.

"H-huh? Nervous? Me? Not at all! Who’s nervous? Not this guy!"

"Right."

Whatever. I didn't really care. I didn't have any more time to waste on him.

"H-hey! What’s with that reaction?! I'm serious! Listen to me!"

I ignored the noisy Renji and headed for the classroom. He draped an arm over my shoulder like a needy toddler, dragging behind me as we walked through the door.

"..."

"Whoa..."

A different world lay before us.

Adorable decorations, tables and chairs arranged neatly—it didn't look anything like the room where we usually took classes.

But more than any of that...

"Y-Yukimura-san! You look amazing!!"

"This is insane! A camera! Someone get the photography club in here with their best gear, now!"

"On it, sir!!"

Standing in the center was a single black rose.

Clad in a high-quality black-and-white maid outfit, she was naturally commanding the adoration of the entire class.

"U-uuuooooh...! D-damn! Look, Iori! It’s a goddess! There’s a literal goddess in here!!"

Renji was shaking my shoulder with frantic excitement. I shoved him off, telling him to stop being an idiot.

But he wasn't wrong. This was the second time I’d seen it, and I was still speechless.

"...?"

Mizuki, standing in the middle of the room, suddenly turned toward us. Our eyes met.

"!"

I froze.

Charm. The talent to draw people in and make them captives.

Her beauty is basically a curse, I realized all over again.

I forced myself to move, tearing my gaze away from her. I let out a breath of relief, and for a second, I thought I heard a tiny giggle from where I’d been looking.

(...Shut up. Just go back to being an idol.)

Even if it was just an auditory hallucination, I felt like saying it.

As I scanned the rest of the room...

"..."

I spotted a somewhat lonely figure standing by the wall.

"Kashiwagi-san?"

"...? Oh, Amano-kun. Morning."

When she turned around, Kashiwagi-san had her usual smile. But to me, it looked forced.

"Morning. Um... how are you holding up?"

I ended up asking the same thing Renji had asked me. I wanted to die. But what else was I supposed to say? I knew how much effort and resolve she had put into this, so the words wouldn't come out right.

But as I stood there agonized, Kashiwagi-san just smiled.

"Yeah, I'm okay. I did everything I could."

She said it bravely.

"I see."

"Yeah. Though, seeing that... I kind of lose all my confidence."

"Ah..."

She was looking at the previous Beauty Pageant winner. Watching Mizuki get showered with endless praise and photos, Kashiwagi-san gave a self-deprecating chuckle.

"What about you, Amano-kun? Are you ready?"

"More or less."

"Oh, you actually sound confident for once. I'm looking forward to it, okay?"

"...Stop putting the pressure on."

"Ahaha. But hey, you’ve got at least one guaranteed vote, right?"

She pointed a finger at herself with a playful wink. I tried to laugh... but I couldn't.

Once the contest was over, I had to tell her.

I hesitated, and Kashiwagi-san, sensing my mood, chose not to say anything more.

"Let’s both do our best."

"...Yeah."

I couldn't say anything yet. I had to see the contest through to the end and then give her my answer.

Because that was our promise.

"Good luck with the maid cafe too."

"Don't remind me."

Kashiwagi-san covered her face, lamenting the cruelty of the world. But no matter how much she looked away, when the time came, she’d have to face it.

The maid cafe... and everything else.

◇

The curtain rose on the Shirayanagi Festival.

Every year, the school was flooded with prospective students checking out the campus and kids from other schools. The turnout was massive.

Our school had a fairly large campus for being in Tokyo, but looking out the window, the crowds of visitors and students made it look cramped.

There was a reason so many people gathered here.

Academic reputation, school spirit, status. But more than anything...

"Hey, what time does the Beauty Pageant start?"

"One o'clock. Apparently there’s a total knockout competing this year."

The biggest draw was the Shirayanagi specialty: the Miss and Mr. Contest.

It was so serious that they even stationed security guards near the contestants to prevent them from getting hit on by outsiders. Personally, I wondered if this even counted as a school festival anymore.

In the middle of all that, what was I doing?

"—Amano-kun! Is the tea ready?!"

"Just finished. Take it while it’s hot."

I handed over the entire teapot to the girl who had burst into the lab.

Ideally, I would have liked to pour it into the cups myself, but... it would get cold during transport. More importantly, the customers would be much happier if a cute maid poured it for them.

And so, I was stuck in the science lab, relegated to the "Tea Master" role of brewing pots of tea.

Ugh... I haven't even warmed the cups, and I’m not using a strainer. If the manager found out I was serving tea like this...

Actually, he probably wouldn't care. He’d probably just nod solemnly and say, "Letting the maids pour it was a sage business decision."

I could practically see him nodding. It was depressing.

"—As expected of a professional. You know your way around a pot."

A deep voice came from the side. I looked over to see Goto-kun peering at my hands, nodding in approval.

"Oh, aren't you supposed to be with the class?"

"Yeah, I made sure they could handle things for now. Besides, honestly, once the setup is done, there isn't much for us guys to do."

"Fair point."

A guy in a maid cafe was just an eyesore. People came to see cute girls; the last thing they wanted was to see some dude scurrying around. I understood the sentiment perfectly.

"By the way, it goes without saying, but it’s a massive hit. The line is getting ridiculous."

"I know."

The tea was disappearing at an insane rate. I couldn't keep up with one pot at a time, so I was currently boiling two simultaneously.

"We set a ten-minute limit per group to keep people moving, but... that might have been a mistake. It’s putting a huge burden on the girls. Especially the big two."

"Ah..."

Mizuki and Kashiwagi-san.

Most of the customers were there for them; I could only imagine how brutal their workload was.

But it wouldn't be good to let them get exhausted before the main event.

"...Those two have the contest later. Can't we let them slip away at some point?"

"That’s the plan. Actually, that’s why I'm here."

"Hm?"

"You have to get ready for the Mr. Contest, right? Once you finish that pot, I'll take over. You can head out."

"Oh, I see."

I realized he was being considerate. I felt bad, but I was honestly grateful for the offer.

"Thanks. That really helps. Do you know how to brew it?"

"I’ll just wing it. I doubt anyone’s actually checking the flavor; we’ll manage."

He had reached the exact same conclusion I had. It was a little sad.

I’d tried my best to make it taste good, but alas—it was a maid cafe. Did people really just want to see the girls?

...Yeah, they probably did.

"Alright, I’m counting on you."

"Got it. ...Hey, Amano."

"Yeah? What?"

"Are you... actually going to be okay? The Mr. Contest. I couldn't stop them from signing you up."

He asked out of the blue. His expression was serious... or rather, he looked like he felt sorry for me. He had the eyes of someone watching a classmate about to walk into a guaranteed public humiliation.

"Umm..."

When he put it like that, it was hard to answer. Am I okay?

"...I feel like I wouldn't mind if the Earth blew up today."

"I see. So you’ve reached the 'desperate' stage."

Goto-kun summarized my deeply meaningful words into a single sentence. I couldn't deny it, though. He was right.

"I’ll leave the rest to you."

"Yeah. Good luck out there. I'm... rooting for you, I guess."

"Gee, thanks."

I wasn't sure about the look in his eyes—like he was seeing off a brave soldier heading to certain death—but I suppose the situations were similar.

I wiped the teapot with a cloth and left the science lab.

◇

"And?"

"Huh?"

"Why are you following me?"

After being relieved of duty, I headed straight for the music room. I had begged for a private, soundproof room, which was rare for a high school.

This was my final check before the big moment. I wanted to keep my fingers moving as much as possible until the afternoon...

"What’s the big deal? I haven't been pestering you about what you've been doing this whole time, have I?"

Renji, who had sniffed me out with terrifying precision, was following me like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Did he predict this? He’d caught me the second I stepped out of the lab. This idiot shouldn't use his brain for things like that.

"So? What are you doing in here, Iorinnn?"

"..."

God, he was annoying.

But I knew from experience that once he was like this, you couldn't move him with a crowbar.

With a sigh of resignation, I arrived at Music Room 3 and inserted the key I’d borrowed from Sensei.

The room was quite spacious, another perk of a private academy. I didn't hesitate; I walked straight to the grand piano in the center.

"Don't get in my way."

"Yeah, yeah."

Renji finally seemed to get the hint. As I sat at the piano, he didn't make any stupid jokes; he just grabbed a nearby folding chair and sat down.

(Right then.)

I had company, but my goal hadn't changed.

Maybe having an audience was actually a good thing. Until now, I’d only played for Sensei or Mizuki. If I thought about it, this was the first time I’d play for anyone else since that competition.

It was perfect for a rehearsal. I let out a small breath and placed my hands on the keys.

I visualized the score in my head and, starting from the beginning, began to move my fingers as if striking the keys with purpose.

◇

After I finished playing the final note...

"No... way..."

Renji’s voice was barely a whisper, filled with genuine shock.

(For now... no mistakes.)

For the past three weeks, I had drilled this one piece into my muscle memory. I wanted my body to move naturally, even if my nerves tried to get the better of me.

The result: a flawless performance, even in a different environment.

But...

(It’s not good enough. No mistakes, but that’s it.)

I could tell I was playing too stiffly. At best, it was a passing grade. If Tokiko-sensei had been here, she would have let out a disappointed sigh.

Just hitting the notes wasn't the goal. If I was going to move past that competition, I needed to give the best performance I was capable of.

Otherwise, it wouldn't mean anything.

But then, as if to drown out my sigh—

"Whoa, whoa, whoa...! Iori!! What the hell was that?!"

Renji, whom I had completely forgotten about, started shouting.

"Huh?"

"Don't 'huh' me! That was incredible! I had no idea you had a hidden talent like this!"

Renji was actually shaking. But then, a look of sudden realization crossed his face.

"W-wait... this is bad, isn't it?"

"Bad?"

"I was worried about you embarrassing yourself... but at this rate, I’m gonna lose!"

He looked stunned, pointing a trembling finger at me as if I’d just committed a grave betrayal. Why though?

"N-no! There’s no way! I've been working my ass off too! It’s fine. I'm a hottie!"

After muttering some nonsense, Renji suddenly grabbed an acoustic guitar that was in the room.

"I’m using an electric for the real deal, but... whatever! Watch this, Iori! Behold my legendary technique!!"

With that, Renji started strumming the guitar. It was actually quite impressive, and when he started singing, he was surprisingly good.

Yeah, that was all well and good, but...

"...I thought I said,"

"Don't get in my way."

My plea fell on deaf ears. Renji kept right on singing. Eventually, he started shouting things like "Let’s jam!" and in the end, I never got to practice the piece I actually wanted to work on.

...Well, I suppose it helped me relax.

He was a pain in the neck, but maybe this was exactly what I needed.

With a wry smile, I decided to just play along with him.

“...Hey, Iori.”

“Yeah?”

We had just finished playing through a few songs together.

Renji, apparently having had his fill, returned his acoustic guitar to its stand and spoke in a dazed, faraway voice. “You’ve changed, man.”

“...Come again?”

“Before, you always had this look on your face... like you didn’t expect a damn thing from yourself. But now? You’re different.”

“Am I?” I asked, unsure.

“Hell yeah. And it’s a good look, I think. I mean, life’s all about taking shots, right?” Renji flashed a wide, mischievous grin.

I couldn’t help but let out a dry chuckle. It was such a typical thing for him to say. “...Maybe you’re right.”

“Damned straight. Let’s give ’em hell, partner!” Renji said, slinging an arm around my shoulder.

Beep-beep-beep.

Just then, my phone alarm went off.

“Oh, time’s up, huh? That was actually pretty fun,” Renji remarked.

“The real work starts now, though,” I reminded him.

“We’ll be fine. After that session, we’re golden.” He gave my shoulder a few encouraging slaps.

I suppose he was right. There was no point in getting cold feet now; worrying wouldn’t change a thing.

“First up is the Beauty Pageant. I wonder if Kashiwagi-chan is doing okay?”

“...”

At the mention of her name, my gaze instinctively dropped to the floor. Kashiwagi-san. She was likely under even more pressure than I was.

“I think she’ll be fine,” I muttered.

That was the only reassurance I could offer, though it sounded weak even to my own ears. In truth, I had no way of knowing. Her competition was as formidable as it got. Last year, the other contestants didn't even stand a chance—it had been a slaughter.

Renji fell silent as well, likely reaching the same conclusion. But soon enough, he flashed a grin, clearly trying to shift the mood.

“Well, she’s got at least two votes guaranteed from us! It won’t be a total sweep for Yukimura-san this time.”

I froze at his casual declaration. I should have nodded in agreement immediately, but the words wouldn't come.

“? Yo, Iori?”

Kashiwagi-san was a precious friend. Just like Renji, we had been close since our first year. It was only natural that I should support her. It was only right that I give her my vote.

I knew that. And yet...

“Hey, Iori,” Renji said, his voice dropping to a quiet, serious tone. “About you and Kashiwagi-chan...”

He trailed off, then shook his head as if dismissing the thought. “Nah, forget it. Let’s get going.”

“...Right.”

Regardless of how I felt, the only thing I could do now was watch. I had promised her I would see her performance. At the very least, I had to keep that promise.

I locked the music room, and together, Renji and I made our way to the gymnasium.

◇

The heat inside the gym was already staggering by the time we arrived.

"Whoa! Is that girl who won last year competing again?!"

"Duh. I wouldn’t even be here if she wasn't."

The crowd looked to be about seventy percent male and thirty percent female. Given the Beauty Pageant was the opening act, the male turnout was expected, but a fair number of girls had turned up to watch as well.

“...We’re way too late,” I muttered, scanning the room. Every seat was taken. Damn it. I shouldn't have let Renji distract me with that jam session. I’d been so focused on my own part in the Mr. Contest that I’d completely neglected to secure seats for this.

“Relax. This is all within the scope of my calculations,” Renji said, puffing out his chest with a smug look.

“What?”

I looked at his confident profile, wondering if he actually had a plan. “This way,” he said, leading me along the edge of the gym.

“H-Hey...?”

I followed him reluctantly. The front rows were, naturally, packed tight. But Renji threaded through the crowd toward the very front. Two girls sitting in the dead-center seats spotted us and gasped.

“Miyama-senpai!”

“We saved seats for you!”

“Hey, girls. Thanks a ton. You’re lifesavers,” Renji said smoothly.

“N-No problem at all!”

“Um, if you’re free later, maybe we could...”

“Sure thing. Let’s grab a bite sometime.”

“Yes!” The two underclassmen chirped in unison before vacating their spots.

Renji took his seat as if it were the most natural thing in the world. “Hmm? What’s up, Iori? Sit down.”

“...”

I was grateful, truly. Neglecting to save seats was my mistake, and I wasn't in a position to complain. However, I felt I had to say at least one thing.

“Drop dead.”

“Wow, harsh much?” Renji looked genuinely bewildered.

Of course it was harsh. I ignored his grumbling and waited.

"—Thank you all for waiting! We will now begin this year’s Miss and Mr. Shirayanagi Contests!"

The announcement from the executive committee sent a roar through the crowd. The stage lights flared to life all at once. A third-year girl stood center stage and screamed into the mic toward the audience.

"Listen up, you dogs! Do you love cute girls?!"

I thought it was a bit much, but the venue erupted in an instant.

"WE LOVE ’EM!!"

"Do you want to see some beautiful girls all dressed up?!"

"HELL YES!!"

The gymnasium shook with the masculine roar. I sat there, stunned, and vaguely remembered that it had been exactly like this last year, too.

"Alright then! Here it is! Let the Shirayanagi Festival Beauty Pageant... BEGIN!!"

"UOOOOOHHH!!"

The contest kicked off, leaving me completely behind in the dust. Next to me, Renji’s extrovert blood was clearly pumping as he joined in the cheering. Maybe this really wasn't a place for a loner like me.

Then it hit me: I was going to have to stand on that same stage later. I suddenly wanted to curl up and die.

"Now then! Our very first challenger of the afternoon is—"

The Beauty Pageant was a school-wide popularity vote. After everyone finished their performances, the audience would cast a single vote for their favorite girl. Sometimes the votes would cluster on one person, and sometimes they’d be split evenly.

Last year, however...

"Hey, when is that girl from last year coming out?"

"They’re probably saving her for last. If she goes first, nobody will even look at the other girls."

I overheard the conversation from behind me. It was true. Last year, a first-year "monster" had swept every single vote. Most of the people crowding into this venue were likely here specifically for her.

“Besides, after those PR photos the other day, her face is everywhere. It was bound to end up like this,” Renji muttered, as if reading my mind.

Right, I’d forgotten about that. There were probably people here today specifically because they’d seen Mizuki’s photo. From a publicity standpoint, the school had made the right call.

I recalled what Renji had said before—that she couldn't just be a "normal" high schooler anymore. The reality of those words was starting to sink in.

While we talked, girls in beautiful dresses took the stage one after another, showcasing their various talents. Some worked the crowd with their talk, others sang. It was a diverse range of performances.

To put it bluntly, though, none of them had really stood out yet. The initial hype in the room was starting to flag.

“She’s coming up soon,” Renji whispered.

“Yeah.”

We were thinking the same thing. If they were going to deploy their heavy hitters, it would be now.

Just as the thought crossed my mind...

"Oh..."

A low murmur of awe rippled through the crowd.

A beautiful girl with chestnut hair appeared, wearing a stunning red dress. The mature look was a far cry from her usual appearance, and both Renji and I found ourselves staring in spite of ourselves.

“Whoa... Kashiwagi-chan is playing for keeps,” Renji breathed.

In her hands, she held a pitch-black violin. The atmosphere in the gym shifted instantly. The previously lax mood was pulled taut, all eyes snapping back to the stage.

"—"

Kashiwagi-san took her stance with the violin. Amidst the sudden shift in the air, she took a single deep breath and began to play.

A refined melody began to flow through the gymnasium.

It was "Air on the G String".

I was stunned. I had no idea Kashiwagi-san could play the violin. It was a classic Bach piece—soft, gentle, and evocative. The tone suited her perfectly. She seemed to be using a backing track for the piano accompaniment, but her timing was impeccable.

While the piece wasn't exceptionally difficult and her playing wasn't exactly "masterful" yet, you could feel the sheer amount of effort she had poured into it.

(...Ah, I see.)

Listening to her, it finally clicked. I realized why I felt so comfortable around her. It was likely because...

(We’re similar, aren't we?)

Lacking confidence. Agonizing over the fact that we weren't "special." I saw myself in her, and that’s why I wanted to root for her.

...Though, objectively speaking, she was already more than special enough. She was the only one who didn't realize it.

"WAAAAAAH!"

When she finished, the gymnasium erupted in applause. Kashiwagi-san looked startled by the reception and bowed hurriedly, her face flushed.

Then, her eyes met mine, right there in the front row.

“...”

For a fleeting second, we simply looked at one another. Then, she gave a shy, embarrassed smile and disappeared backstage.

(...Thank god.)

I clapped my heart out, feeling a genuine sense of relief. I didn't know if she would get the result she wanted, but this applause was something she had earned all on her own. It was something to be proud of, even if she’d probably just downplay it with her usual modesty.

Satisfied, I turned to ask Renji what he thought.

“...”

“Renji?”

For some reason, Renji was glaring at me with a pout. “Uh, what is it?” I asked, tilting my head.

“...Between Kashiwagi-chan and you, don’t you think it’s a bit much to keep things like the violin and piano a secret from me?”

“Don't be like that.” My bad, I thought.

Renji huffed and laced his fingers behind his head, though he eventually let out a satisfied sigh. “But man, she was great. She might actually place pretty high, don’t you think?”

“Yeah.”

I truly believed that. At the time, I really did.

"—And now, at long last, our final contestant! I’ll just come right out and say it: the one you’ve all been waiting for! The winner of our previous Beauty Pageant!!"

The third-year announcer’s words brought a momentary, heavy silence to the room.

And then...

"UOOOOOOOOOHHH!!"

An explosive roar erupted. I instinctively covered my ears, but it barely made a dent in the noise.

"SHE’S HERE!"

"I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS!!"

The crowd screamed. Even the announcer on stage gave a wry smile at the frenzy.

"Now then! Before a riot breaks out from the anticipation, let’s bring her out! The "unanimous" absolute queen of the previous contest—"

For a second, I forgot to breathe. Everyone in the room braced themselves for the moment.

"—Miss "Yukimura Mizuki"!!"

The announcement pushed the crowd’s fervor even higher. But then, the sound of heels clicking against the floor reached our ears.

Step. Step.

“...Ah.”

Someone let out a faint, breathless sound. Every ounce of consciousness in the room was pulled toward the sight before us.

"—"

The girl who appeared on stage was a masterpiece of human beauty.

A pitch-black dress and high heels. With makeup that she never usually wore, she looked like... a goddess of the night.

The sound died in the gym. Everyone was so entranted they forgot to even cheer. Despite the bizarre atmosphere, Mizuki’s expression didn't change a bit. Even with hundreds of eyes boring into her, she scanned the audience with a cold, vacant expression, as if she were standing alone in an empty hall.

“...!”

And then, her eyes met mine, right in the center of the front row.

A momentary silence followed. Then, Mizuki gave a soft, gentle smile.

It was the same smile she always wore when we were at home.

(...Don't do that. Not here.)

I wouldn't know what kind of face I was supposed to make.

The music started. Mizuki reached out and gently stroked the stand mic in front of her. She took a deep, steady breath.

"—"

Then, she began to sing, her beautiful voice echoing through every corner of the venue.

In that instant, everyone stopped breathing. With just a single note, a single breath, the entire atmosphere of the room was rewritten. The mood that Kashiwagi-san and the others had built up was shattered in a heartbeat.

No one was thinking about Kashiwagi-san or the other contestants anymore. All they could see was the goddess on stage. It was a brutal, overwhelming allure.

“...Damn,” Renji whispered, sounding completely stunned.

The song she was singing was an old Western track. It was obscure enough that almost no one in the room likely recognized it.

But...

(This song...)

"Hey, Iori... do you really think it’ll be okay?"

"Yeah. We have the tickets and everything."

I knew this song.

When we were kids, I’d taken Mizuki to see a movie—just the two of us. This was the song that played during the end credits. It was a ballad about a deep, singular love. It was quiet and somewhat melancholic, and Mizuki had loved it. For someone who never usually sang, she would occasionally hum this one song.

(There were so many other choices.)

She could have picked something high-energy. Something that suited her "image" better. Why did she go out of her way to pick this one?

"—..."

Eventually, her voice faded, and the final melody rang out before vanishing into the air.

In that heartbeat...

"—UOOOOOOOOOHHHH!!"

A thunderous roar of applause enveloped the gymnasium.

“There’s just no competing with that,” Renji muttered, as if the words were being forced out of him. His voice held a mix of awe, admiration... and an equal amount of regret.

Amidst the absurd level of cheering, Mizuki didn't crack a single smile. She simply gave a curt bow and walked offstage.

“...”

I clapped for her, but I couldn't help but think... I’ve really gone and fallen for a difficult girl, haven't I? If I’d fallen for someone more "normal," I wouldn't have to go through all this.

Amidst the unending cheers, my thoughts turned to the chestnut-haired girl who had already been forgotten.

The results were exactly as everyone expected. First place: Mizuki. An overwhelming 552 votes. I was speechless. From third place down, not a single vote had been cast.

However...

"Second place—Miss Kashiwagi Kotoha! With fifteen votes!"

The room stirred at the announcement. Fifteen votes might seem like a pathetic result at first glance. But at this school, it was anything but.

She had managed to take a double-digit number of votes away from the Yukimura Mizuki. Anyone at this school understood exactly how incredible that feat was.

But still...

“—Kashiwagi-san.”

I stood up and headed for the roof. I had a feeling she’d be there.

It was a restricted area, and the space was deserted. In one corner, I found a girl huddled with her knees drawn up to her chest.

When I called out to her, she slowly raised her head.

“...Amano-kun.”

Her eyes were red. There were visible tear tracks on her cheeks.

“Ah, haha. You caught me looking pathetic, didn’t you?”

She forced a smile, but it was clear she was struggling. I was at a loss for words. I couldn't offer her encouragement or comfort. I knew that anything I said would only cause her more pain.

“...”

Even though I was the one who came looking for her, I couldn't say a single word. Kashiwagi-san looked away from me, her eyes focusing on something far in the distance.

“...You know? I actually had a little bit of confidence. I thought maybe I could do a bit better than that.”

“Yeah.”

“But I guess not. I didn't stand a chance.”

Kashiwagi-san was in second place. She had fifteen votes. And I... was not one of them. Even though I’d told her I’d support her, I hadn't chosen her.

What right did I have to say anything to her now?

“Look, Amano-kun, you have to go. The Mr. Contest is about to start, right?”

“...I know.”

“I’ll be there to cheer you on in a little bit.”

Even now, she was worried about me. She was acting tough just so I wouldn't worry.

“About the answer to my confession... after the festival is over today is fine.”

“...Yeah, okay.”

The conversation ended there. I received the message loud and clear: she wanted to be alone. I knew I should just walk away.

And yet...

“The violin.”

“Eh?”

“It was beautiful. I thought it suited you perfectly.”

I had to tell her that much. I didn't want her to think her efforts had been for nothing.

“—”

Kashiwagi-san whispered something under her breath, but with my back already turned, the words didn't reach me.

◇

"—We will now take a thirty-minute break. The Mr. Contest will begin at 4:00 PM—"

I ignored the announcement as I walked through the school. Usually, the festival would end at 3:00 PM, but today it was extended until 6:00 PM. This was, of course, for the main event: the Miss and Mr. Contests.

Looking at the gym through the window, the guys were filing out while a flood of girls rushed in. They were likely there to see their favorites in the Mr. Contest; some girls were even carrying handmade placards.

I walked down the deserted hallway, watching them from the corner of my eye. My mood was dark, my steps heavy. No matter how much I tried to push it down, Kashiwagi-san’s tear-streaked face kept flashing in my mind.

But I had to snap out of it.

I was scheduled near the end of the contestant list. I should have just enough time to do one last check on the piano.

With that thought, I reached the music room. But standing right in front of it…

“—Iori.”

A girl was leaning against the wall.

“...Mizuki?”

Her name slipped out of my mouth. I hesitated for a moment before speaking. The girl who had just been bathed in applause on stage was standing right in front of me.

“What are you doing here?” I asked, my voice slightly strained.

She had changed out of her dress and back into her uniform. But her makeup was still there, making her look even more radiant than usual. I found myself wanting to look away.

Mizuki spoke in a casual tone. “I had a feeling you’d come here.” She looked me straight in the eye, then took a step closer.

“You look like you're in pain.”

“...!”

“Did something happen?” She reached out to stroke my cheek, but I gently brushed her hand away.

“Iori?”

To be honest, I didn't want to see her right now. After talking to Kashiwagi-san, I didn't know how to look her in the face.

“Sorry. I need to practice.”

I tried to brush past her, but as I did...

“—Are you really going through with it?”

Startled, I turned back. Mizuki’s eyes held a different light than usual.

“You can still withdraw. Right now.”

There was a darkness in her jewel-like eyes, like a deep night. I frowned.

(...Why stop me now?)

I didn't understand. When it was first decided that I’d be in the Mr. Contest, she’d teased me while rooting for me. But now, she clearly didn't want me to go out there. She probably wouldn't tell me why even if I asked. But...

“Yeah, I’m going out there.”

My answer wasn't going to change. It was far too late to quit now.

“...I see,” Mizuki whispered after a few seconds of silence. She looked almost resigned. After a brief pause, she let out a small sigh.

“Well, at least let me fix your appearance.”

“Huh?”

“You’re going out like that?”

“Ah...”

I finally realized what she meant. Every girl in the Beauty Pageant had been dressed to the nines. The Mr. Contest would be the same. Renji was definitely going to be decked out in something ridiculous. Standing out there in just my school uniform might actually make me look more out of place.

(I didn't even think about that.)

To be honest, I hadn't had the mental bandwidth to worry about my outfit. I probably should have prepared something, but... placing in the Mr. Contest wasn't my main goal anyway.

“It’s fine. I’ll go like this.”

If I got too caught up in my looks and it messed with my performance, it would be a total waste. My familiar uniform was just right.

Mizuki looked at me and lowered her brows in exasperation. “Come here.”

She grabbed my arm and made me unlock the music room before pulling me inside.

“H-Hey?!”

I followed her in, confused, and she sat me down on the piano bench.

“I’m going to fix your hair.”

Mizuki took a hand mirror and what looked like hair wax from her bag. “Hold this,” she said, handing me the mirror. I reluctantly held it up.

My own face stared back at me. It was a face Renji often teased for being too feminine, a face I’d never particularly liked. Mizuki began expertly styling my hair with the wax.

...Ah, right.

“Mizuki.”

“What?”

“Congrats on winning the Beauty Pageant.”

“...Thanks.”

I felt I should at least say that much. It might not be a big deal to her, but she was my childhood friend, and she’d succeeded. I should be happy for her.

“Did you listen? Properly?”

“Yeah. ...I didn't think you’d pick that song, though.”

“Fufu.”

“What are you laughing at?”

I gave her a flat look, but she didn't say anything. She just gave a small, knowing smile, as if she realized I didn't understand a thing.

"—The Mr. Shirayanagi Contest will begin shortly."

“...There. All done.”

The announcement rang out, and Mizuki wiped her hands with a wet wipe, sounding satisfied. I looked in the mirror. My face looked... a little sharper, I guess.

“Thanks.”

“Mm-hmm.”

I handed back the mirror. I hadn't managed to practice, but it couldn't be helped. I’d done everything I could. Now I just had to believe in myself.

I opened the door, waited for Mizuki to step out, and locked the room securely.

The Mr. Contest. An opportunity like this might never come again. It was a stage I didn't feel I belonged on, but maybe it was okay to have a moment like this once in my life.

(This really isn't like me.)

The face of the Manager flashed in my mind, smiling and saying, "That’s fine."

“Okay, I’m off.”

“Right. ...Iori.”

“?”

I turned back. My childhood friend was standing there with a fleeting, fragile smile.

“Good luck.”

“Yeah.”

Her words felt strangely cold, but I chose to ignore it for now. Digging into Mizuki’s feelings, changing our relationship... all of that could wait until after the festival.

For now, I just had to do what I came to do.

◇

“You’re late, Iori!”

“Sorry.”

I arrived at the waiting room backstage, and Renji immediately started yelling.

“What were you doing?! The first half has already started!”

“I said I was sorry. My turn is near the end, so it doesn't really matter, does it?”

I tilted my head, wondering what was wrong with him. He seemed completely on edge. He’d been glancing around restlessly, his feet tapping nervously on the floor.

...Wait, is he?

“Are you... nervous?”

It was the same question I’d asked him this morning. Back then it was a joke, but now...

“H-Hah?! Nervous?! Me?! N-No way, impossible, not gonna happen!”

“...”

“H-Hey, what’s with that look? I’m serious! I’m totally not nervous, okay?!”

I slowly looked away. Now that I thought about it, even though he was an extrovert, he didn't really do sports or clubs... did he actually have any experience performing in front of a crowd?

I, who had at least competed in a piano competition once, felt surprisingly more composed.

"—And now! Next up is the self-proclaimed most handsome guy in school! Miyama Renji-kun!"

“Whagh?!”

“Go on. Get out there.”

I gave a firm slap to the back of Renji, who had just let out a bizarre noise at the announcer’s ridiculous introduction. I sighed as I watched him stumble forward pathetically.

...That’s weird. Usually, our roles were the other way around. Why was I the one pushing him forward?

“O-O-Okay. Leave it to me! You better follow my lead, Iori!”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Just go already.

I gave him a playful kick to the rear. Renji slapped his own cheeks to psych himself up. “Alright! Here I go!”

“Good luck.”

I watched him run out with his electric guitar. There were only a few people left after him. Then it would be my turn.

...What if I fail?

“Well, I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.”

There was no point in worrying about failing now. It seemed I’d managed to find enough resolve to accept whatever happened.

"WAAAAAAH!!"

The crowd’s excitement grew. After Renji’s electric guitar performance, there were some third-year seniors doing a comedy skit, a magic show, and a dance performance.

"—Next up is our first-time challenger! Second-year, Amano Iori-kun!"

Finally, it was my turn.

“...!”

A piano was rolled out to the center of the stage. The audience seemed to realize what was happening, and the cheers died down slightly.

(Calm down.)

I forced my trembling hands to stay still. It would be embarrassing to look like this after making fun of Renji.

Don't worry about the audience. Just do what you have to do. I took one deep breath and stepped out from the wings.

"WAAAAAAH!"

The audience cheered for the new challenger, and I felt a brief shiver. I tried to maintain my composure as I walked to the piano.

But then...

“...!”

My body suddenly faltered. A memory I never wanted to recall surfaced in my mind.

"—Hey, look, he stopped."

"Ah, he blew it... Talk about a mood killer. I hate when that happens."

A competition from a year and a half ago. My trauma, the very symbol of my failure. The same scene was unfolding before my eyes.

But...

(I can't keep dragging this around forever.)

I knew I’d remember that day. That’s why I’d trained my body so thoroughly that it would move regardless of how I felt. Just like in those hellish lessons. I just had to move my fingers like a machine.

I let out a breath and sat down. Just before I started to play, I took one look at the audience.

What I saw made me want to roll my eyes.

(Seriously? Right in the center?)

Right in the middle of the front row—the same seat I’d been in earlier. There sat Mizuki, surrounded by her fan club as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Slightly behind her, I could see Kashiwagi-san as well.

Seeing the two of them, the suffocating feeling in my chest suddenly vanished.

(...Yeah, that’s right. As long as those two are listening.)

I didn't care about anyone else. With a slightly lighter heart, I placed my fingers on the keys.

The murmuring of the crowd faded away. After one more deep breath, I struck the first note.

"Piano Sonata No. 14—"Moonlight", 3rd Movement."

Inside the crashing arpeggios was a delicacy, a sadness that evoked the pale moonlight. I could feel the atmosphere in the gym shift as the sound hit them.

This piece was highly difficult and didn't allow for a single breath. If even one note was off, it was over. There was no time for corrections. It was like walking a tightrope; if you didn't make it to the end perfectly, you failed.

But for the past three weeks, I’d carved this piece into my body. Now, my fingers moved on their own, even if I closed my eyes.

(...I’m playing it.)

As my fingers danced across the keys, a strange sense of awe washed over me. This was a piece I had once given up on. I’d thought that competitions were beyond me.

But now, my fingers were moving exactly as I wanted them to. I felt like the sounds that hadn't reached anyone back then were finally reaching them now.

"—I don't think you truly know your own worth yet."

Was this what the Manager meant? I’d just made up my mind and given up on my own.

(Maybe... it’s okay for me to want a little more.)

Finally, the last note.

As I finished playing and slowly lifted my fingers…

"WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!"

A level of applause I could never have imagined rained down upon me. I stood there, stunned, looking out at the crowd.

Then, I looked down at the front of the stage.

There was Kashiwagi-san, with tears in her eyes... and Mizuki, simply staring at me in silence.

◇

“Hey, Iori!”

I was bowing my head, still a bit unsteady on my feet, as I finally made my way back to the waiting room. Renji practically charged at me, nearly tackling me into a bear hug.

“You actually did it, you madman! That was a massive success!”

“Y-Yeah...” I managed to grunt out. Ow, ow. This guy is way too strong for his own good.

“I get it, I get it,” I said, finally peeling him off me. Renji’s excitement hadn't cooled down in the slightest; he started thumping me on the back with enough force to rattle my teeth.

“Man, that was seriously incredible! To be honest, I think my chances at first place are in jeopardy now, but you know what? Who cares! If I’m gonna lose, I’d be happy losing to that! Right?!”

“Don’t get ahead of yourself. There’s no way,” I said, trying to settle him down like a high-strung horse.

There were factors other than the performance itself to consider. No matter how well I did, the world wasn't so kind that I could just waltz into first place with one song.

But still...

“It went... well, didn't it?”

“Hell yeah it did!”

It seemed I had somehow made it over the hurdle. I had finally settled the score with that old piano competition. If that was the case...

(I guess I can let myself be happy, just for a moment.)

I raised a hand toward Renji. Sensing my intent immediately, he grinned and met my palm with his own.

Smack!

The crisp sound echoed through the room. I felt like we were in some kind of cheesy youth drama, something that really didn't suit me at all.

“I did it.”

“Heh, you sure did.”

Well, I suppose once in a lifetime isn't so bad. I decided to give myself permission to enjoy the feeling.

Then came the announcement of the Mr. Contest rankings.

First place: A third-year senior. 187 votes.

Second place: Renji. 138 votes.

"And in third place—Amano Iori-kun! With 120 votes!!"

Needless to say, I froze solid the moment they announced it.

◇

“...Kashiwagi-san.”

The cultural festival had finally come to an end. While the rest of our class was buzzing with excitement over the after-party, I walked alone to a bench tucked away in a corner of the courtyard.

The girl I was looking for was sitting there, all by herself. When I called out to her, she turned around and gave me a faint smile.

“Congratulations on third place.”

“And you on—” I started to say the same back to her, but the words caught in my throat. I knew this wasn't the result she had wanted.

“You really surprised me. I had no idea you could play the piano like that,” she said.

“You’re one to talk, Kashiwagi-san.”

Her secret weapon, the violin, had shocked me just as much. To think we both used instruments for our performances... It was such a strange coincidence that I almost wanted to laugh. But I couldn't.

Seeing me look down, Kashiwagi-san gave a small, wry chuckle.

“It’s okay. You don't have to be so worried about my feelings.”

“...”

“I’ve come to terms with it. In my own way.”

“...I see.”

If that was what she said, then there was nothing left for me to say. Comforting her or trying to encourage her would probably only have the opposite effect. Besides, there was something else I had to say right now.

“Kashiwagi-san.”

“Yeah,” she replied, nodding as if she already knew what was coming.

The promise between us. To give her an answer after the pageant.

The truth was, I didn't want to say it. I wanted to stay in this ambiguous friendship of ours forever. That was my honest, selfish desire. But even so, I had to speak.

“I... I can’t return your feelings, Kashiwagi-san.”

The words felt like I was squeezing them out of my very soul.

...God, this feels like absolute shit. I don't dislike this girl at all. In fact, I think she’s incredibly charming, both as a person and a girl. I respect her deeply.

Even so, my answer wouldn't change.

“I see.”

She didn't show any sign of being shaken when she heard it. She simply gave a small nod and looked up at me.

“Aww. I guess it really was a no-go, huh?”

“...I’m sorry.”

“Hey, I told you it’s fine!” Kashiwagi-san laughed brightly as I bowed my head in apology. “I had a feeling it would end like this. I think I knew all along.”

“...”

“But man, what a waste, right? I mean, I did come in second in the Beauty Pageant.”

“You’re absolutely right.”

I couldn't help but let out a small laugh. She was right. I was turning this girl down, and I didn't even have a snowball’s chance in hell with the person I was about to go confess to. When all was said and done, I might end up with nothing at all.

I was such an idiot it was almost impressive. I could only laugh at myself.

“And even then, you still can’t forget about her?”

“No.”

“Wow... You really are devoted, Amano-kun. I’d expect nothing less from the boy I fell for.”

She leaned in, peering into my face teasingly. I gave her a noncommittal smile, trying to bite back the crushing guilt.

“I hope it goes well. With her.”

“...Thanks.”

With those words, the conversation between us died.

Had I finally made a clean break? From now on, I was sure we’d speak less and less. We couldn't go back to being friends, and I had no intention of letting things stay vague like we had before.

It was lonely and painful, but it was the right thing to do. That’s what I told myself.

“Well, then...”

“Yeah. Oh, wait. Could I ask for one last favor?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Someday, I want you to introduce me to her. To the girl Amano-kun fell in love with.”

“...Yeah.”

If that was what she wanted. If a miracle actually happened... if everything worked out... and if I could eventually find more confidence in myself than I had now...

“I will. I promise.”

I was sure that day would come. I made the promise and turned my back on Kashiwagi-san. Then, I started to run without looking back.

I told myself I didn't have the right to look back, even as I heard the sound of sobbing behind me.

◇

I searched for a while after that, but I couldn't find Mizuki anywhere. One of the girls in our class told me she had already gone home.

She was the hero of this cultural festival. Everyone had wanted her to come to the after-party, but once she said, "I’m just really tired today", no one could really push the issue.

So Mizuki was no longer at school. But somehow... I had a feeling I knew where she was.

"Sorry. I’m heading out early."

I sent a quick text to Renji and left the school. He’d probably complain about it tomorrow, but... well, there was nothing for it.

I hopped on the train, transferred once, and got off at my local station. Then, I headed to the place.

“...Mizuki.”

The park where the two of us had first met. She was sitting alone on one of the swings.

I knew it.

I couldn't help but give a wry smile. Only now, at the very end, was I finally able to predict what she was thinking.

I called out to her as she stared blankly into the empty air. She turned around with her usual composure, showing not a hint of surprise.

“Iori.”

She said my name and gave a small smile. But that smile felt strangely fragile, like it might disappear at any moment.

I didn't know why Mizuki was making a face like that. But...

“I want to talk.”

“...”

Mizuki didn't react to my words. She just stared at me with those vacant eyes. It was almost like... the first time we had met.

“What about Kashiwagi-san?” Mizuki asked quietly.

She was asking, without saying it directly, if it was okay for me not to be with her.

“Yeah... I already talked to her. Properly.”

I had said what needed to be said to that girl. I wouldn't think about the pain or the loneliness—not for right now.

I had made up my mind. The person I needed to talk to right now wasn't Kashiwagi-san.

“Mizuki.”

“Yes.”

The girl who was my first love was staring back at me. I knew this was reckless. But no matter how out of my league she was... it seemed I just couldn't give up on this first love of mine.

“...I love you, Mizuki.”

I had finally said it. Those words I had kept locked away in my heart, the words I never intended to say for the rest of my life. I had finally laid bare the feelings I was supposed to take to my grave.

“...”

Mizuki didn't say anything. I didn't know what her silence meant. But I didn't have even a shred of composure left. I resolved not to look away, no matter what, and simply laid my heart bare.

“Ever since the first time we met. Always.”

My mind flashed back to our meeting in this very park. My heart had been stolen away in that instant, and I had been keeping the lid on these feelings ever since.

“But I kept telling myself you were way out of my league. I was always so scared that we’d eventually drift apart.”

“I see.”

“...And so...”

The words stopped there. And so... what?

Do I want her to date me? Do I want us to be a couple? The words I had planned to say wouldn't come out. To me, this girl—my feelings for her—weren't something so light. I wanted to scream it. But I had to tell her. At the very least, before she went somewhere far away.

I clenched my trembling fists. Just as I was desperately searching for the right words to say...

“Iori.”

Suddenly, Mizuki stood up.

“...Huh?”

She gently pulled me into a hug.

“It’s okay. I understand. Your feelings reached me.”

A soft sensation. A warm body. As I stood there frozen, Mizuki whispered to me, as if savoring every word.

“Thank you. For putting it into words.”

The arms wrapped around my back tightened for a brief second. Eventually, she pulled away and looked me straight in the eye.

“...I love you too, Iori.”

With that single sentence, our lips met.

◇

“...”

The two of us were sitting side-by-side on the swings. I was staring dazed at the nighttime park, unable to comprehend what had just happened to me.

The warmth of being held, the words whispered in my ear, the feeling of our lips overlapping... None of it felt like reality.

“...Mizuki.”

“What is it?”

“Do you really...?”

The words leaked out of my mouth. I couldn't believe it. I was certain I was going to be rejected. But at my look of disbelief, Mizuki gave a wry chuckle.

“You really are dense, Iori.”

“What?”

“You didn't even notice Kashiwagi-san’s feelings, did you?”

“...Oh. Yeah, I guess not.”

Come to think of it, that was true. I remember being just as stunned back then as I was now.

“But this isn't a lie.”

“...”

“I love you, Iori.”

Before I knew it, Mizuki was standing in front of me, her hand resting on my cheek.

“Probably much more than you think.”

As she stroked my cheek as gently as if she were handling a precious treasure, I found myself unable to say anything. Then, she quietly held out her hand to me.

“Let’s go home, Iori.”

“...Yeah.”

Her voice was kind. I hesitated for a moment before taking her hand. It was soft and a little cool.

Back when we were kids, this had been perfectly natural. And yet, at some point, I had become unable to even hold her hand. I had even tricked myself into thinking the loneliness I felt about that was just my imagination.

“Hey, Iori.”

“Hmm?”

“Can I come over tonight?”

She asked the question as we were walking. Coming over. I knew exactly what that meant.

“Yeah. I’d be happy if you did.”

When I told her that from the bottom of my heart, Mizuki gave a happy smile.

“I see... Were you lonely?”

“Incredibly.”

“You’re so honest.”

“There’s no point in acting tough now.”

I had just laid everything bare. There was no point in trying to keep up appearances anymore. Besides, this childhood friend of mine probably saw through everything anyway.

“True. Okay, then I’ll come over. I wouldn't want Iori to start crying.”

“I wasn't crying.”

“Are you sure?”

She peered into my face. I instinctively looked away. No, I really wasn't crying. I might have been about to cry, just a little bit, but still.

“Why are you looking away?”

“...No reason.”

“You’re cute.”

“Shut up.”

Mizuki laughed, as if to say she understood everything. I tried to complain... but I couldn't. The sensation of our joined hands. The way we could talk so naturally. It all just made me so happy.

Being teased like that, we continued walking hand-in-hand, just like the old days. Eventually, when we arrived at my house...

“Iori.”

“Yeah?”

“I want my key back.”

“...Here.”

I pulled the key Mizuki used to have out of my wallet and handed it to her. It wasn't that it was okay for her to have it. I wanted her to have it. I wanted it to be natural for her to be in this house.

I put all those unspoken wishes into that gesture. Mizuki took the key, inserted it into the lock of my house as she always had, and opened the door.

“...I’m home.”

“...Welcome back,” I whispered, savoring the greeting we had repeated so many times before.

“I’m going to use the shower first.”

“Oh, right. Yeah.”

“Well, see you in a bit.”

With that, Mizuki grabbed a change of clothes and disappeared into the bathroom. After watching her go, I slumped down onto the sofa.

“This is real... right?”

Now that I was alone, the shock hit me all over again. I had confessed. But of course, I hadn't expected to win. It was a suicide mission. I had just thrown all my feelings at her without thinking about what came next.

And yet...

"...I love you too, Iori."

I was sure no one would believe it. Yukimura Mizuki. The untouchable girl on a pedestal that everyone looked up to. A radiant moon that was forever out of reach. That was how it was supposed to be...

...Come to think of it, over the past month, unbelievable things had been happening to me one after another. Kashiwagi-san’s confession. Entering the Mr. Contest. Winning third place. And now, I had become the boyfriend of my first-love childhood friend, whom I thought was completely out of my reach.

Even listing them all out now, none of it felt real.

...As I sat there lost in thought, nearly thirty minutes passed before I even realized it.

“...I’m out.”

“Whoa!”

I practically jumped at the sound of her voice. I turned around to see a beautiful woman who had already changed and was drying her hair with a towel.

It wasn't exactly rare for Mizuki to shower at my place. I’d be lying if I said it didn't usually make me nervous, but it was something I should have been used to by now.

But right now... for some reason, I couldn't bring myself to look directly at her.

“Why don't you go next?”

“A-Ah, right.”

I fled into the bathroom, trying to make sure she didn't realize how shaken I was.

(I mean, all I have to do is act the same as always.)

It’s not like anything was going to suddenly change just because we were a couple. I told myself that as I started washing my hair with unnecessary force.

“...Welcome back.”

“Yeah.”

By the time I had finished my shower and finished changing, my head had finally cooled down a bit. Mizuki seemed to have finished with the hairdryer as well; she was sitting on the sofa in her loungewear.

Should I sit next to her, or not?

As I hesitated and tried to sit on the sofa with a bit of distance between us...

“Iori.”

“Yeah?”

“Come over here.”

Mizuki stood up and took my hand.

“H-Hey? Mizuki?”

I called out to her, but there was no answer. I let her lead me until we reached my room. It was a perfectly ordinary boy’s room—not messy, but with no decorations to speak of.

And there, on the bed...

“...”

“Wait—whoa!”

She gave me a light shove. It wasn't a lot of force, but I was caught off guard; my feet tangled and I tumbled onto the bed. When I looked up, Mizuki was hovering over me.

“M-Mizuki...?”

Right in front of my eyes was a face so beautiful it was hard to believe. I had been looking at it since we were little, but I had never once gotten used to it. If anything, as the years went by, it only grew more beautiful. I couldn't even count how many times I had been captivated by it.

That beauty slowly began to descend toward me.

“W-Wait a second!”

I hurriedly pressed my hands against her shoulders to stop her. I tried to calm her down, wondering what had gotten into her so suddenly, but Mizuki’s eyes didn't waver in the slightest.

There wasn't a hint of agitation. Just her usual, beautiful eyes.

“You know, don't you?”

She simply asked that one question. About what was about to happen. About what we were going to do. She was saying that in this situation, there was no way I couldn't know.

“No, I mean, but still...”

This is so sudden. I mean, no matter how you look at it, this is only our first day as a couple.

“We aren't just ‘childhood friends’ anymore.”

As she said that, she gently took the hands I was using to hold her shoulders.

“I want to carve that into your body.”

There was no hesitation in Mizuki’s voice. I was stunned. Mizuki’s resolve was being forced upon me, whether I liked it or not. As I simply stood there flustered, without any kind of preparation...

“And besides... I guess this is your punishment.”

“Punishment...?”

“That’s right. Your punishment for making me wait ten years.”

Mizuki’s brow furrowed just a little. That expression, which seemed somewhat lonely, suddenly overlapped with the Mizuki of our childhood.

"Hey... why are you avoiding me?"

A face that looked like she was angry, or like she was about to cry. A voice that was anxious and weak, something unthinkable for the Mizuki of today.

(Oh... right.)

I had finally remembered. This girl—Yukimura Mizuki—hadn't been aloof from the very beginning. If anything, back then, she was more prone to loneliness than anyone else.

Back in elementary school, she always wanted to be with me, morning and night. I remember how she’d get angry, her eyebrows twitching, if I even suggested we walk to school separately.

And even though I was with her, I hadn't truly faced her. I had left her alone for ten long years. I had used the excuse that she was an untouchable girl on a pedestal.

“...I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I’ll forgive you.”

Mizuki stroked my cheek and gave a gentle smile.

“Because you finally chose me, Iori.”

She said it so happily as she intertwined her fingers with mine. And then—I decided to accept it.

Seeing that I had relaxed, her lips finally descended for real this time.

“I’m never letting you go again.”

...I don't remember much of what happened after that. Everything was just so far beyond reality.

A body so beautiful it made my head spin. A world-class beauty letting out soft sighs.

I touched her skin with trembling hands as she pressed her sweet lips against mine. Without even knowing if this was a dream or reality...

"...I love you, Iori."

She whispered to me, as if melting me with her sweetness.

“...Nn...”

“...”

...The next thing I knew, it was morning.

◇

SIDE: Yukimura Mizuki

...Ever since I can remember.

I’ve had the awareness that I am “broken.”

"Mizuki-chan is so calm, isn't she?"

"She’s smart, and she never throws tantrums. She’s really mature for her age."

I’ve been told things like that ever since I was little.

...But they were wrong.

It’s not that I’m calm or mature. It’s just... that I don't feel anything. No matter what happens, I don't think anything of it. My heart doesn't move.

"...Mizuki. You be a good girl now."

I didn't even feel any emotion toward my mother, who practically neglected me. Even if she didn't come home for a week, I just thought she must be busy with work. I didn't feel the loneliness of not being loved, or the sting of solitude. I felt nothing.

I was aware that I probably didn't have anything that could be called a “heart.”

...With the exception of one single person.

"Mizuki? What are you doing?"

"...Iori."

Amano Iori-kun. The boy my age who lived next door.

We met when I moved in at the age of five, and we’d been together ever since. This boy alone was special to me.

"What is it... Iori?"

"What do you mean, “what is it”? Don’t just wander off on your own. You’ll make me worry."

"You were... worried about me?"

"...Of course I was."

Strangely enough, only in front of him could I truly laugh from the bottom of my heart. I could feel happy or have fun. Only in front of him could I be a “human.”

...And so.

"Hey, Iori?"

"What?"

"Stay with me forever, okay? Promise."

"...If that’s what Mizuki wants."

It was a modest request from back when we were still in elementary school. But to me, it was a desperate prayer. I truly believed that as long as I had this boy, that was all I needed.

...And yet, that promise was broken in just a few short years.

"...Iori."

"..."

"Hey... why are you avoiding me?"

It was when we were in the upper grades of elementary school. Suddenly, Iori started avoiding me. Up until then, we had done everything together—at home, at school, everywhere. And yet lately, he’d go to school separately. He wouldn't hold my hand. He wouldn't come to meet me when it was time to go home.

I didn't understand.

"...We aren't that age anymore."

With a forced, expressionless face, Iori would say things like that.

"Age? What do you mean, age?"

Was it because we were growing up? Because we weren't children anymore? Was that why Iori was avoiding me?

No. Iori wouldn't say things like that.

"Answer me. Properly."

"...Tch."

It took some time, but I managed to force the truth out of Iori. He told me that he was being bullied by the boys in our class.

“Stay away from Yukimura.” “You don't belong with her.” “You’re just a delusional brat.”

Iori was being hurt in places I didn't know about. When I found that out...

"...I see."

I felt something dark and smoldering start to burn inside me, something I couldn't control. It was something I’d never had before. Something that wasn't supposed to exist in a person who was like a broken doll.

...I later learned that this emotion was called “anger.”

"...Who?"

"Eh..."

"Who said those things to you, Iori?"

I could feel the expression draining from my face. I wanted to be cute in front of Iori. Only in front of him had I always been able to smile. But now, I couldn't smile. I didn't even want to try.

Looking at me like that, Iori seemed a little frightened. But I wanted to know—immediately. I wanted to know who had hurt the person I cherished.

They were nothing but irrelevant strangers. People I didn't know or care about. And those people were trying to take Iori away from me?

"...Oh..."

...I won't forgive them.

I was able to identify the boy who had bullied Iori right away. He was the big kid who was the leader of the boys in our class. He was the one who was always bothering me by trying to talk to me.

"Hey, Mizuki! It’s way more fun hanging out with me than with some loser like Amano, right?"

(...It’s him.)

The disgusting boy with the smarmy grin. This person had hurt Iori. Because of him, Iori was trying to distance himself from me.

My emotions reached their limit, and my head went cold. My only one. My other half. This person was trying to steal him away.

(It’s okay, Iori.)

I thought of my precious childhood friend. My lips naturally curved into a smile.

...Looking back now, that might have been the moment the “restraints” inside me snapped.

"Wh-Why...! N-No! That’s a lie! It wasn't me!!"

What I did was simple.

A photo of him bullying a younger boy on the way home.

A photo of him being violent toward a girl in the shadows.

A photo of him shoplifting from a convenience store.

I took them, and took them, and kept taking them. Then, I spread them around. In the classroom, in the hallways, in the faculty room, in the restrooms. That was all.

"H-Hey! Say something! You guys were doing it too!"

No one helped him. He didn't have a single ally. The naked king didn't realize the trouble he was in until the sword was at his throat.

"...Hey."

"!? M-Mizuki...!"

He called my name. It made me want to vomit. Only one boy was allowed to call me by my name.

"H-Hey, Mizuki? You tell them. You know, right? There’s no way I’d do stuff like this!"

"..."

"I-I haven't said it until now, but... I actually like you. So..."

I sidestepped the hand he reached out to me as if clinging for dear life, and said one thing.

"What was... your name again?"

"Eh...?"

I realized, rather late, that since I only viewed him as an obstacle, I hadn't even bothered to remember his name.

"Wh... wha...?"

"Goodbye."

The following week, he and his cronies disappeared from the school. I don't know what happened to them after that. I didn't care.

But it was good. This was for the best.

"...Iori? Everything’s okay now, see?"

"Okay... but who did this?"

"Who knows. It doesn't really matter."

Iori still looked uneasy. Wanting to reassure him, I pulled him into a tight hug. Even Iori, who usually got embarrassed and tried to run away, let me hold him quietly. That made me happy.

And from the next day on, Iori was back to normal. He stayed with me at home and at school.

I was truly relieved. Iori hadn't left me. I really thought it was for the best. And at the same time, I was convinced of my own righteousness.

(...As long as I have Iori, that’s all I need.)

I didn't need anyone else. Someday, I would create a world where it was just the two of us.

...That became my dream.

◇

“...Nn...”

...I suddenly woke up. I felt like I’d had a very nostalgic dream.

I checked the clock; it was five in the morning. It was still too early to get up.

“...Zzz...”

Looking down, I saw Iori sleeping with his face buried in my chest. When I stroked his head, he nuzzled closer.

“...Fufu.”

So cute. So precious. Oh, finally.

(You finally said it.)

It had been a long time. I truly felt that way. But the wait hadn't been painful. We only have each other. No matter what path we took, the ending would never change.

Even so—I had wanted Iori to be the one to say it. That he loved me. That he chose me over everything else. Because if he did, I could bind Iori’s heart even more deeply.

(...Thank you, Kashiwagi-san.)

It was thanks to that girl that Iori was able to make up his mind. By coming into contact with her feelings, by suffering, by worrying...

...He finally chose me.

So it was good that she was there. I was finally able to hear Iori’s feelings and his confession.

But still...

("Moonlight"... it was beautiful.)

...One unnecessary thing remained. The Mr. Contest. The piano.

I had thought Iori would just coast through it somehow.

"...Third place, Amano Iori-kun."

But Iori had worked desperately hard and seized that victory for himself. He had learned the taste of success. His eyes had been drawn to the possibilities of the future.

(...You can’t do that, Iori.)

That’s something you don't need. It’s an obstacle to our future. All you need to do is think of me.

“...Mizuki...?”

I heard a raspy voice. While I was stroking his hair, Iori had woken up. But that was no good. If he woke up, he’d surely try to run away.

“No. It isn't morning yet.”

I pulled him tight against my chest, closing off his field of vision. So that he couldn't see anything. So that he could only feel me.

“Go back to sleep.”

“...Nn.”

Gradually, I could hear the sound of his slow, steady breathing again.

...It’s still too early. For us to truly be “alone together.”

I want Iori to want it too, not just me. So for now, I’ll wait. I’ll melt him away, little by little, bit by bit. Until he can’t live without me. Until he doesn't need anything else. I’ll melt him with my heart and my body.

Iori doesn't need to know anything. Not about my heart, nor about the fact that he’s being imprisoned. He can just drown in me without knowing a thing.

...Because I’m sure that’s the greatest happiness he could ever have.