Chapter 35: The Angel and Her New Year Plans (2/2)

Amane had a promise to meet his own family once semi-annually, and before he met Mahiru, he had intended to take a long vacation at his hometown.

“You are going back to your hometown, Amane-kun, no?”

“I guess. They told me to show up anyway.”

He glanced aside at Mahiru, and perhaps it was just him, but her eyes seemed colder than usual.

It appeared she had expected to spend the New Year alone, and never doubted that Amane would return to his hometown.

“…I get the feeling that if I go back, I’ll be questioned about you.”

“That will be tough.”

“I just need to explain to my dad, but mom probably wants to hear more about it.”

“That will be strange given that we are often in contact.”

“Seriously, since when did you get so familiar with my mom…?”

One had to wonder why and when Mahiru was on good terms with his mom, and for some reason, they were sharing photos and secrets …he felt a little weary just thinking about it, but it appeared Mahiru was interacting with her willingly , unexpectedly well in fact, so he felt that was acceptable, somewhat.

Amane would have to hammer the point into Shihoko not to say anything unnecessary, but leaving that aside, he looked towards Mahiru, not knowing what to do.

He imagined her occasional hollow expression and forlorn eyes, and had the urge…not to leave her alone.

“Well, you just met mom, so sorry about dad, but I think I don’t have to return to my hometown this time. I’ll go back during Spring break after all.”

Thus, if it was not trouble for her, he hoped to have dinner with her, like usual.

“…I see.”

“Nn, I want your Toshikoshi soba.”

“You are quite the glutton.”

“Because it’s your cooking.”

“…Even though it is sold outside?”

“That’s good enough.”

He was fine even though it was just soba bought from the market.

More importantly was the leisure time they could spend eating together.

“…You are eccentric.”

“Shut up.”

Mahiru curtly blurted, and Amane deliberately responded in annoyance, only to be met with a little smile.

“…Thank you very much.”

“For what?”

“Everything.”

Mahiru said nothing more, and she embraced her favorite cushion, probably feeling somewhat better than before, her face looking brighter.