Chapter 321: A Rude Conversation (1/2)

In the midst of the waning light, the two of them were alone in the classroom: Akiha in her school uniform and Taiyou facing her.

The two of them gazed at one another, feeling a tranquil atmosphere that can only be felt between those who have fully gained each other’s trust.

This was the perfect opportunity, so Taiyou took out a ring case and presented it to her.

“I’d like you to put this on.”

“A ring?”

“Yeah. Think of it as an engagement ring.”

“Wooow.”

Akiha stared at the ring, leaning in all sorts of directions to examine it. Her hands were clasped around her back, and she made no motion to release them. The atmosphere was slightly different than before, shifting from the once-sweet atmosphere.

As Taiyou was questioning what was up…

“No way.”

“Eh?”

“I said, no way.”

“…Why not?”

“Do I have to spell it out?”

Akiha smiled mischievously. It was very like her to do this, but Taiyou didn’t get why she was rejecting him like this. It wasn’t like she was in a bad mood, and yet she still refused.

“Guess we should get going.”

Akiha said, linking an arm around the one that wasn’t holding the case. They then walked out of the classroom, returning home while Taiyou was dragged around not understanding what was going on.

Nighttime, inside of their temporary condominium residence.

Aoba and Hera were inside the living room.

Aoba had just come out of the bath in her pajamas, a tinge of sakura in her cheek area. Not only that, but her hair was down, which might have actually increased her charm three times more than usual. With this unique look, she spoke to Taiyou.

“Really, so Akiha said that.”

“Yeah, you’ve really got to raise those favorability points.”

“Favorability points…You know, this isn’t a freakin’ dating sim.”

“But still, I’m sure that everyone’s favorable attitude toward you should be because of your hidden stats.”

“Should be? You don’t even sound sure about it.”

“Then it IS because of your hidden stats~”

“No c’mon, don’t just change it like that.”

Taiyou grimaced, turning back to Aoba.

“It was honestly baffling to me that she would refuse, especially just acting like her normal self. What even is happening at this point?”

“I might know the reason.”

“Seriously!?”

Taiyou leaned forward, hips in the air.

Aoba made a difficult expression as she saw that.

“Yeah…Oh, but I did anticipate that.”

“Anticipate…”

“It’s complicated…like I wanted it to happen but didn’t want it to happen.”

“Complicated…”

He parroted her, sitting back down and grasping his chin as he savored these meaningful words.

“Wait…is it because she needs you to be there as well or something?”

“…Probably.”

“Got it. Well, that is very much like her and I say I’m cool with that.”

“Is that really okay with you, Natsuno-kun?”

“Yeah.”

Taiyou gave a firm nod. His expression showed no signs of reluctance, accepting it all so easily.

“I get that she’s still in love, so it’s all good.”

“It’s all good? Wow, you have such confidence, Natsuno-kun.”

“Not like that. It’s more like conviction. Anything less than this would be rude to all of you.”