Chapter 126: About the matter of returning to the hometown (2/2)

“But I think I should pay a visit, since I have received her precious son.”

“Ain’t I  the one who received you, Mahiru…?”

Typically, it was the male would welcomed the female. Considering Mahiru’s family situation, he should be the one welcoming her, and not the reverse. Shihoko definitely had no issues welcoming Mahiru him in.

He would give himself over to Mahiru if she wished for it, but it was true that he was the one who received her.

He said that, thinking this basis was established, but once she heard that, she blushed, and clung onto the cushion.

“…Your honesty in saying such things is a virtue, Amane-kun, but that is also a fault.”

“So which one is it?”

“It is a virtue, only when saying so to me.”

“You think I’ll say that to anyone else…?”

Amane would never show interest in anyone else, and Mahiru knew that very well. What was she worried about?

“…Same goes for this. Either way, this is fine. I think this is a virtue you have, Amane-kun. I think it is due to Shuuto-san’s teachings.”

“Why dad?”

Amane was confused as to why Shuuto’s name was suddenly mentioned, but once he saw Mahiru cupping the cushion and leaning towards him, he patted her head.

He did so because she was adorable, rather than before he wanted to coax her. So he patted her dotingly, and she lowered her eyes bashfully as she let him pat. It might be just Amane, but she seemed really comfortable, so it probably was not a bad thing.

“…I think you will become like Shuuto-san, Amane-kun.”

“Really? I don’t have that baby face.”

“No, I mean the inside.”

“I don’t believe I can be that calm.”

“…I do not mean that.”

Baka, Mahiru muttered with a voice barely audible for Amane to hear, and leaned on his elbow. He deliberately leaned backwards, and she fell onto his lap.

The caramel-colored eyes were hidden under the eyelids, appearing, closing, and appearing again. Amane saw this, and smiled as he put his palm on her cheek.

“I can’t be as gentlemanly as him, but I’ll dote on you in my own way, Mahiru.”

“…This is what I am referring to.”

“My dad’s doting abilities are better than mine.”

“…I am already drowning.”

She put her head on his lap, her hands wrapped around Amane’s that was on her face as she showed a relaxed expression, and closed her eyes.

She rubbed her cheeks, and smiled.

“…May I continue to drown?”

“I’ll give you however much you want…don’t drown in the pool next week though.”

“…Baka.”

This time, she retorted with a pout so cute and so clear. He laughed, and patted her face again.