Onna Doushi to ka Arienai deshou to Iiharu Onna no ko wo, Hyakunichi kan de Tetteiteki ni Otosu Yuri no Ohanashi - Prologue

[Prologue]

December has come and gone, and fall was over before the clothes I had bought were worn three times.

The winter break is just around the corner, and the only thing standing in my way is the final exam.

[Being fashionable through all four seasons in Japan is fun, since each season has its own color and model variation. There’s this model called the La Variation model, which I only wear for three months. I feel like I’m buying more and more clothes every year. And when I think about it calmly, I feel like I don’t know what I’m doing.]

[Well, I like the fashionable Marika.]

Aya, who was sitting across my table, replied to my mumbled words as she looked out the window at the setting sun, in a way that didn’t really convey her intentions.

Oh well, I would eventually get tired of wearing “the same fur” everyday, like cats or dogs.

I dropped by Aya’s room on my way home from school. Her room has a good heating system that makes me feel really comfortable, so it’s a waste to go home. 

(Yeah, it looks so cold outside.)

As I sit with my legs stretched out in the skirt of my sailor suit, I look down at the answer sheet on the table.

The number 89 shines brilliantly to the right of the name “Sakakibara.” Considering the fact that the average score for this year’s math was 63, I’m pretty proud of this score

I love school, and I’m always trying to improve my grades at school. Nowadays, my studies are going well, and I also have a good status at school.

That’s because I’m a girl who can study hard and is very good at this kind of stuff.

But…

There’s a test paper with the name “Fuwa Aya” written on it. 

I wanted to laugh at her but she got full marks. I can’t laugh at her.

A score of 89 and a perfect score are only 11 points apart. However, if you answer 89 questions in 100 questions, you’ll get 89 points. But in order to get 100 points, you need to be able to answer all 100 questions correctly, or 120, or even 200 questions. Of course, there’s no room for a single mistake.

This overwhelming difference in ability… I’m at a loss, you know.

In other words, that.

She’s just sitting there with her face clear as if to say, “I’m just doing what I normally do”, proving that she had a good face, good figure, good athletic ability, good at martial arts, and she has a superb brain.

This woman is Fuwa Aya.

Her hair, illuminated by the sunset, is warm and gentle, as if it were woven with sunlight. Her sleepy emerald eyes, which had a hint of vulnerability in them, were full of color and sweetly colored the atmosphere that she had.

Overall, there are some parts that are resembling a doll, which are so beautiful that you can’t believe that they are alive and moving. I’m sure it’s because of her eyes.

I mean, if you’re able to convert all of that speciality into your own charm, aren’t you invincible since there is no enemy? Isn’t that a bit unfair? Wouldn’t it be better if you gave me at least one trait? Especially that academic ability.

Aya’s height is 163 centimeters. I asked her about her weight the other day and she told me that she weighs more than me. But in this age, there’s no point in raising or lowering simple numbers.

Her body is composed of light, flabby body fat and heavy, shapely muscles. Aya’s waist is much slimmer than me, and her breasts are bigger. I can’t take it anymore, I‘m such an idiot.

I raised my hands in surrender.

[Okay, okay, I get it! I admit it! I lost!]

[Whether you approve it or not, a loss is a loss.]

[Yes, but! Well, maybe not!]

Aya is smiling at me, wondering how to tease me  after pushing me further. The gesture of her index finger stroking her lips makes me nervous, even if both of us are girls.

Aya’s pink lips aren’t because of lipstick, they’re just as is. If you have a secret, please tell me. Or did you sell your soul to a witch?

[I scored 474 in 5 subjects. And you?]

[I got 421.]

[Who’s better?]

[The sadistic baritachi sitting in front of me!] (TN:Baritachi is a word for the dominant partner in a yuri relationship)

Aya smiled happily, damn it.

[Well done, clever girl. You’re really good at studying, aren’t you? I think you’re probably the second best in your class. That’s great.]

[I wanted to win against Aya, even if I got second-to-last place in the class!]

As I was screaming my head off, Aya came next to me and patted my head.

[Uhhh, in Thailand, you shouldn’t stroke your child’s head unnecessarily.]

[It’s often written in guidebooks, but in reality, as long as you don’t beat them unnecessarily, people don’t care about such things.]

She even beat me at trivia. There’s nothing more I can do to beat her. I want to turn into a clam, floating in a sea of defeat.

[Don’t worry.]

When I looked up to throw a verbal urchin at her, I saw Aya’s face right next to mine, along with her beautiful nose.

Aya is slowly chasing after me as I back away from her. But the distance between us was quickly reduced to zero, and my lips felt as soft as a cookie. I didn’t even have time to close my eyes.

When Aya kissed me, she narrowed her eyes and smiled.

[Because Marika is the cutest.]

Fuwa Aya is a perfect second year high school student, and…

–I’ve been with her for four months and she’s my girlfriend.

[Cheater…]

[What is?]

[All of it], I said as I looked away. It’s not fair that Aya can change the atmosphere with just one word. If I rant and rave anymore, it’ll sound like I can’t read the atmosphere.

[Aya, you idiot…]

[But I’m a better student.]

[You know it and you keep saying that…]

I glared at her with my lips pouting. Aya didn’t say anything and wrapped my hands with both of her hands. It feels like a massage, and it quickly loosens up my heart, which was overwhelmed by the loss, is unrivaled in a blink of an eye. Muu…

That’s why a maiden in love is simple. If this keeps going as is, I’ll start to say, “It’s great to have such a wonderful person as my lover! Please hold me!”. I’ll begin to accept Aya’s perfection as it is, but I’m still far from that. I’m not simple enough to be able to be honest with her even after she knocks me down head-on with her test scores

I mean, Aya is not perfect. It’s not like she’s been able to do everything since she was born. I already knew that Aya was really clumsy, and that she got to where she is now through lots of pain and struggle.

Even this time, I guess I did my best because I was going to compete with her. It seems that the Yuri manga that I bought has piled up… I think I’ve done my best, so I guess it’s not that bad.

[Take this!]

For a little revenge, I’ll tickle the soles of Aya’s feet.

[Doesn’t the sole of your foot ticklish?]

[Not really, What about you?]

[Ah, wai-, stop, I’m weak.]

She tickled me back, I twisted my body and writhed.

Hah, hah, hah… what the hell… this isn’t a video work for maniacs, like girls in sailor suits tangling and tickling each other…

Like a dog running in a yard, I was out of breath and staggered.

[Somehow, you know all my weaknesses… Tell me about Aya’s…]

[Weakness… Marika’s tears?]

[That’s not what I’m talking about.]

If I had been tickled for another 3 minutes, I would have cried. But I wouldn’t be surprised if Aya apologized for that.

[Haa…]

I dropped myself on the table with my hands outstretched. I trace a circle on the test paper near my face with my finger. I wonder if it would disappear if I rubbed it. If only I scored 90 points then I would win…

Aya took pity on me for my dutile attempts, and said to me as if she wanted me to stop

[Then, Marika. Just like you promised, punishment game it is.]

[Why did you think you could win!!! The ‘me’ on that day!!!]

Because… Even if I couldn’t win, if I stopped trying, my heart would give in to Aya! I thought it was wrong! Mou!

So, what number then? And this time, there was no room for me to choose, I sat down on the bed, holding my skirt with my inner thighs as if to protect my dignity. And in front of me, Aya was not holding a magical notepad with lots of punishment games written on it, but… a handycam video camera. It was a video camera.

[So, Marika. Let’s lift your skirt up little by little.]

[Wait, wait, wait.]

I shouted while holding my hands out in front of me, hiding my face from the monocle of the video.

[I can’t keep up with you, though! Why do you have the video ready?]

[Because I knew I’d win.]

[So what are you filming?]

[Marika.]

[Naked?!]

Aya is serious when preparing to take a  low-angle video, and even though nobody would be ashamed of showing that neat face in public, what’s embarrassing is the fact that she’s an absolute pervert. This girl… is my lover…

[I mean, this is the kind of punishment game you were talking about before… What the hell is this?]

[Marika, you’re using language that’s vulgar.]

[You’re the one who’s vulgar?!]

Aya was nipping at me, I feel like I’m in danger.

I was pushed down onto the bed with a light push on my shoulder. Aya put her knee between my legs and leaned over me. With the camera still in place, she uses her free hand to move her fingers from my neck, down to my stomach, to my waist, and to my skirt.

[…]

I was shrugged by Aya’s line of sight, which resembled a lens, and I couldn’t move.

Since it’s a punishment game, I don’t have the right to refuse. Video, huh… I don’t know if it’s ethical or not, but I think I’m going to be carried away by the atmosphere.

No, it’s not that I don’t think about it deeply. But it’s my fault for falling in love with such a pervert.

She stroked my cheek as I was covered by her, and I looked away. My face is burning. Ah mou, I love your face…

With my hands at my chest, I look up at Aya.

I’m already a sophomore in high school. It’s never too early, and I think I’m adult enough to make my own choices. That’s why.

[Fi- Fine then, It’s not like… I’m doing it for what Aya wants… That, even if you want to do something crazy… since it’s Aya, it’s fine.]

I never thought I would use this line for a girl in a girl’s room. But it’s Aya anyway, I’m sure she has something that I’m not familiar with.

Even if that happens, if the other person is Aya… I’m sure I won’t regret it. Maybe, I’ve heard it hurts for the first time, so it’s scary!

[That’s – no – good.]

[Eh?]

She rejected my offer with a dull, slamming voice like hitting a stone with a stone.

It’s a bit… unexpected, and I blinked and looked up at Aya. Aya once puts down the video camera and looks down at me with angry eyes. W-Why?

[Marika, well, you must treasure yourself.]

[I don’t mean to be particularly crude, but…?]

I was going to make a snide remark about Aya being the one who first mentioned filming in the first place, but as if pressured, the words won’t come out. It’s ot like Aya to be so stubborn in her voice.

Why did she say it so strongly? It was 1000% that she’s the one who dragged me into the naughty swamp, though.

[Anyway, that’s no good.]

[Ah, okay. But, even if I lose my virginity with my fingers…]

[No.]

I decided to nod my head, I guess she has her own reasons. I don’t know why I’m feeling like a child who couldn’t get a candy bar…

And then, Aya started to panic.

[Ah, that’s why…]

[?]

Aya gulps down her saliva and pokes her finger at me with a nervous look on her face.

[You can’t just hit on some guy and try to get some experience, no way!]

What the hell is she talking about?

For a moment, I was dumbfounded. It’s not that I want to throw away my virginity for no reason…But Aya’s reddened face as she stared into my eyes was like a mother who’s against her daughter’s marriage. If she was that worried about it, why didn’t Aya take mine instead? I’m sure Aya understands what I’m thinking.

It’s been a while since I’ve seen Aya so upset.

I chuckled and stroked Aya’s head.

[It’s fine, I won’t do that. I’m not in a hurry, of course. Mou, Aya’s so cute.]

[…]

Ah, She’s embarrassed that she guessed too early, and she’s moping to hide her embarrassment.

W-what is this? It’s so cute… Aya, you’re so cute!

[Are you really that worried about me, Aya? Hee, hee, you like me that much… Hmm, Aya-chan is like that, huh… ]

I stroke her head. Aya is like a stuffed animal, and she’s at my mercy. Aah, she’s so cute. I want to tease her. I want to mount her here and now!

[Aya-chan gets jealous too, aren’t you? That’s right, Aya-chan always pretends to be innocent, but actually, she loves me so much that she’s already fallen in love with me. So- cute~!]

It feels so good. I’m doing what she usually does to me. But I can’t get enough of it. The way I treat Aya like a little girl is amazing, it gets me so excited.

Just as I was thinking, “I’m going to push her a little further…,” Aya regained her composure. Okay, let’s retreat. Don’t push too hard. It’s a good idea to know what you’re doing. I’m a girl who can study and read the atmosphere! (Even though I’m in second place.)

So Aya cleared her throat, fixed her hair and set up the camera.

[Well then, let’s get started.]

[Ye~s.]

Then, the atmosphere around Aya changed. And her voice became strangely theatrical and bold.

[Okay? Marika. This is just a videotape. It’s just a recording/ Are you nervous? Don’t worry, just relax. I’ll be gentle.]

Eh, I’ve heard that line somewhere… Ah, it was in the first AV I’ve ever seen…

Don’t tell me this isn’t just a recording session. Is this the kind of recording that goes on?

[Uhm,… is that a part of the punishment?]

Aya’s answer was serious

[The atmosphere is also important.]

I wanted to respect my beloved lover’s opinion, but I couldn’t, I thought.

[I see… Aya, you’re not going to be an AV director or something in the future, aren’t you?]

Any profession is fine, but I don’t like the idea because it suits Aya too well. When I asked her about that, she stopped and thought about it.

Then, she looked at me.

[If only… Marika became an AV star.]

[I won’t!]

I shouted so loudly that it almost echoed in the neighborhood.

After that, the recording ended without a hitch. Without a hitch? Let’s just state the facts. Well, it ended safely. We went until… Aya was satisfied. I got ridden by an excited Aa, and in the end, I ended up crossing over to the other side of embarrassment (among other things)….

No, Aya is just better at creating an atmosphere than I thought. And she says things like, “You’re beautiful” and “You’re cute” to me like I’m her pet… Moreover, there aren’t any girls who don’t feel good about their lover’s compliments… Yeah.

Still, I used up a lot of energy… or rather, I’m out of energy. And before I knew it, I was drowsy in Aya’s bed naked.

The next thing I know, it’s already pretty late, it’s dark outside the window.

I’m in a daze. The languidness of the aftermath mixed with the embers of the good feeling made me feel like I wanted to hug Aya’s arm and sleep next to her forever.

Aya was reading a manga on her phone with one hand while I was sleeping on the other hand. Her face, illuminated by the faint light of the screen, emerged in the darkness.  Maybe that’s how she’s been awake all this time. Occasionally petting my head as I slept.

Ahh, somehow…

(I like you.)

I didn’t say it out loud, but I murmured it in my mind. I’m so happy right now.

Suddenly, our eyes met. Her eyes wondered if I was saying something, but Aya didn’t say anything more. I was startled and decided to wake up. I yawned to kill the silence.

[Oh… I have to go home.]

[Ok.]

Aya was in her underwear. If I had known that was the case, I would have twirled my legs as well as my arms around her. I like the feeling of my thighs touching hers. I tried to entwine my legs with hers, but then I realized that’s a no go, I’m naked right now.

I searched for my panties and then put them on. I fumbled around in the bed to change my clothes. I sit up, feeling as if I’ve narrowly escaped danger. But next, I’ve to find my bra. If ‘m not careful, Aya will turn on the lights, so I have to be quick.

Being seen naked in a brightly lit place is an everyday occurrence (or has become!). But that doesn’t mean I’ll get used to it. I’m sure I’ll feel more confident when the flab goes away and I’m more stylish than Aya… 

Yeah, let’s stop imagining a future that will never come!

As I finished putting on my underwear, Aya turned on the ceiling light. The glare of fluorescent light stung my eyes. I put my uniform back on, wrapped a scarf around my neck, and put my coat on my arm. Okay, I’m ready.

By that time, Aya was also wearing her uniform..

[I’ll walk you home.]

[Ah… Th-thanks.]

I grabbed my school bag and left the room . I followed Aya, hobbling along. Ugh, it’s cold in the hallway. I should put on a coat.

The hallway was as clean as ever, not a speck of dust on the floor. But I’ve never seen someone else in Aya’s house, even though I often stay there until quite late.

I wondered if there was some reason for it, but I classified it as something that I didn’t need to hear.

If there was something, then Aya would have told me. I’m sure she’ll tell me when the time comes. Yep.

[What’s wrong?]

[Uhm, let’s go.]

Aya stopped and looked back at me with concern. I’m not sure why she doesn’t show that kindness to me when I’m having s*x with her. She only enjoys teasing me and doing things that I don’t want to do… 

But Aya will insist that, [It’s because Marika likes this kind of thing]. But that’s wrong. I’m happy that Aya is doing this for me, but… AH, I’m not acting like I’m an M.

[It’s funny how your expression changes from time to time.]

[Eh? I-I don’t think that’s true.]

I walked past Aya, who giggled with a finger to her mouth, and went to the door. It must be even colder outside, so I wrapped my muffler around my neck and put on my earmuffs to keep the warmth in. Aya, on the other hand, just wore a muffler softly around her neck. Is she a child of the wind?

[[I don’t like winter very much… But Aya, aren’t you fine when it’s hot or cold? Are you a robot? Are my tears the only thing that moves you?]

[Actually, What would you do if I said that, “I came from the future to save Marika”?]

[What are you trying to save me from?]

[Let’s see, maybe a womanizer, another lesbian, or maybe anyone else that’s trying to get you?]

[I thought you’re the one who made me fall in love with a girl in the first place…]

Only Aya’s shoes are lined up in the entrance. She opened the door, consciously trying not to ask about her other family members. The outside air flowing in stung my cheeks coldly.

But my body was relatively warm, so I was feeling more comfortable than I thought I would be. Since I had been hugging Aya, her body heat seemed to be protecting me.

[You look happy this time.]

[… Don’t observe people’s expressions too much. I don’t really like it…]

[Were you thinking about me?]

I was staring at her mischievous eyes. My hands are fidgeting in the pockets of my duffle coat as I was thinking of an answer. 

[Well, that is correct… ]

[But, I‘m beside you, here.]

Aya shocked her hand into my coat pocket. Aya’s cool hand wraps around my right hand. 

[Hey, Aya, we’re near my house.]

[It’s all right. The reason I keep my hands in my pockets is because I’m cold. I have a good reason, so I don’t mind if people see me. No one will be suspicious after all, It’s legal.]

That last word seems strange, but I decided to ignore it and said, [Yes.]

I wish I could chain my hands together so proudly when I’m with her.

From this year, winter will be… Well, maybe I don’t hate it that much.

[You look happy again. Marika is so cute.]

[Mou, enough of that!]

We were on our way to the station, which was decorated with illuminations everywhere. On the way to the train station, Aya opened her mouth, letting out a white breath with a hint of sexiness, 

[Oh, by the way. We’re having a party at our bar on Christmas Eve.]

[Oh, at that bar?]

[Yes.]

Aya works part-time at a lesbian bar in Shinjuku. Aya works which sounds amazing when you say it like that, but I’ve become a regular there. It’s a casual and comfortable place to hang out.

Even if you’re not swinging that way, a party at a place like that is definitely glamorous and fun! But Aya was standing next to me, looking unhappy for some reason. I wonder what’s wrong with her.

[Did you want to spend some time with me, Aya?]

[Hmm, well… Not really.]

The idea got shot down in an instant. Eh… is that so..? I-I’m feeling a bit depressed.

[If Marika had something planned, I would feel guilty for that. But this is our first Christmas together.]

[I don’t think I have anything in particular. No, it’s more like that I didn’t have the time to think about it, because I was… Studying really hard for the test.]

Even though I lost in the end… Moreover, I got myself being recorded… I dropped my shoulder. In addition, I asked Aya.

[Aya, are you okay with me and you for Christmas?]

[Yep.]

She nodded her head without hesitation. I know that bar is an important place for Aya. I understand . I’m an understanding girlfriend, so I’m not going to sulk over it, don’t worry. I’ll miss you for a bit, though.

[Ah, no, no. I mean…]

Aya, who seemed to have noticed something, started to explain herself. But it’s a good idea to have a party with Karen-san and her friends, because that sounds like a lot of fun.

I was about to tell her something, but her gaze on me was so passionate that I knew she was trying to tell me something important, so I decided to wait in silence.

I don’t want to rush her or make fun of her. I know there’s no need for that. Aya may be clumsy, but she chooses her words carefully and conveys them to me.

[It’s not about Christmas.]

It was a serious confession. Aya spun her heart firmly, like I did when I first said that I liked her.

[I don’t think Christmas is the only time I’ll be thinking about it, because I want to be with you 365 days, all year.]

Aya’s face is turning red as she said that

[For me, Every day that I spend with Marika is special.]

Aya’s words are too powerful. The inside of my coat suddenly gets hot.

I was embarrassed and my hand started to sweat. But I left it as is because it would be misunderstood if I let go of her hand here.

Even ordinary days like this are special to Aya, aren’t they?

[Aya… it’s really unfair to suddenly bring out that part of you.]

[Really? But you know, back then, Karen-san told me to say these things properly too]

It seems like something a long time ago, but Aya and I used to be rivals. We couldn’t see each other’s heart at all. And we were worried about each other.

If we had made a mistake somewhere in the past, we wouldn’t have had the future we had now, and we would probably still be bickering with each other. Yeah, it’s kinda easy to imagine that kind of future.

That’s why…

[Yeah, I’m glad, Aya. Thank you.]

[Did you find myself… a burden or annoying?]

[What? I don’t think so. What’s with the idea of being poisoned by adult love? In fact, you already knew that by the time you bought me for 1 million yen. It’s too late for that.]

When Aya casts a shadow on her face, I laugh it off like a north wind.

[I don’t think I’d feel bad if the person I love thought about me a lot. You don’t like to be thought of as annoying, but you don’t mind being treated as a pervert?]

[Yeah, because somehow Marika is always happy. But I don’t think she’d like to be tied up.]

[Yeah, I’m happy… No, I’m not happy…]

My voice faded into a whisper. I feel strangely guilty that I can’t honestly admit to being involved in a relationship at this point in my life.

[Maybe, that’s part of the reason why you don’t call me much and only send messages in the morning and at night?]

[That is, also a part of the truth, I guess.]

Aya’s excuse was that she had never been a good writer.

[When I hear Marika’s voice, or see your messages, I get so horny that I can’t concentrate on anything else.]

[What are you talking about with such a refreshing smile, you pervert!]

I pulled my hand away from Aya. She looked a little disappointed. I was almost tempted to give in to her, but I kept my wits and pushed her away. I will continue to condemn you for your perverted comments.

Otherwise, I don’t know how far it will escalate. You’ve still got one foot in the wrong place. Just one foot?

But yeah, I get it. I’m looking forward to the Christmas Eve party. Also, thanks for letting me know how you feel about me, Aya. It made me happy…

[Mhm…]

We lined up and started walking again. The station is almost there. My special time with Aya will soon be over. I whisper to her as if I’m reaching out to her with sadness.

[I like spending every day with Aya. But of course, I like spending time with others. But having Aya there makes me really happy.]

[Marika has good lips, huh…]

[Eh, really?]

Aya is the one who has a sharp tongue when she’s verbally abusing me. She looks like an interviewer.

[Yes, I’m always wondering what to tell or not to tell. Marika always says something really important as a matter of course… and that makes me nervous.]

[I guess so, hehe… I’m so happy to be praised by Aya. I’ll make your heart pound even harder, okay?]

I got a little carried away and winked at her in a silly way. It seems to have worked. Aya has a weakness for charming gestures. She turned her face away and her nape turned red. Which made me nervous too. 

Aya slowed down and she stayed quiet for a while, and honestly, she was so cute. There’s no other creature as cute as her. I can’t really say it out loud, but I think it’s a big deal that such a cute Aya is going out with me.

At any rate, I made up my mind that I would definitely go to the Christmas party.

Meanwhile Aya, who’s trying to move forward in a clumsy way, is choosing what to say and what not to say.

Suddenly, she said something so outrageous

[I was relieved when you said you’d come. I can’t take a day off work on christmas. At the same time, it’s also my birthday party.]

[Hee… I see… Hm?]

Didn’t she say something strange now?

[Birthday party?]

[Mhm.]

[Whose?]

[Mine.]

Wait a second, I don’t understand

[Aya, when is your birthday?]

[Yeah, tomorrow, December 25.]

What’s that? I growled like a tiger at Aya, she then asked me with her eyes that showed “What is it?”

[That can’t be!]

[Eh?]

Aya got flustered from the sudden safeword. So I flipped my coat and grabbed her.

[Tell me first, you!]

Even after being yelled at, Aya, still puzzled, asked, “Was it important?” I couldn’t believe it. 

This is my girlfriend’s first birthday and she didn’t want me to get her any presents?

I just don’t understand how Aya thinks!

[I can’t believe it! Listen to me, Mom!]

When I got home, I was still angry, so I grabbed my mom who had just returned in the dining room and made a fuss. Both of my parents work outside. Today’s dinner was a lunch box she had bought on her way home 

[Are you really upset with someone for not telling you her birthday?]

My mother looked young and cute. With her hair done up neatly and wearing a business suit, she looks like she can do a good job and was very cool.

She often goes out with her friends on her days off and takes me out to lunch at fancy restaurants, so my mood is strongly influenced by her. I thought my mom was so similar to me.

You’re supposed to be angry! Mou!

[I mean, I can’t give her presents!]

[Is that why you felt upset about it?]

[Eeh?]

My mother says as if she has seen it all while taking a seat and starts fiddling with her phone.

[I understand that Marika’s intention is good. But a good intention shouldn’t be one-way. Since the recipient might feel a burden towards it.]

[What is that? Are you saying that it’ll be annoying?]

I wrinkled my brow as I asked her. In our previous conversation I told Aya that she wasn’t annoying at all, but does she think I’m annoying?

My mother looked up and smiled bitterly.

[It’s a little different from that. It means, not all girls are like, “Just take whatever you want” Just to have an equal relationship with her. You get the idea right, Marika? Well, I myself don’t know either.]

[Don’t tell me about it if you don’t understand…]

I really feel like my mother when she gets messy at the end of the day.

I mean, Aya forgot to tell me about her birthday due to the fact that she doesn’t care about it. I think that argument suits her.

Aya tells me that I’m important to her, but she’s completely unaware that I care about her as much as she cares about me.

That’s why, when I do something for her, she is suddenly surprised and overly grateful about it. I think that’s how Aya unconsciously thinks all the time

I took one of the boxes, a fried chicken bento. I went back to my room, changed my clothes, and sat down at the table. My mother, who was sitting ahead of me, was holding her waist with a kind of pained look on her face.

[What’s wrong? You have a backache?]

[Not really, but I’ve been feeling a bit dull.]

[You should go to the hospital]

[Okay, okay. I’ll do it when I have my day off.]

[You workaholic…]

I took a picture of our meal and sent it to our family group line, and then we said, “Itadakimasu”. Then my mom and I heard a buzzing sound from our phone. It was my father. He sends us a picture of a beef bowl. Mom quickly sent a vegetable stamp saying, “Eat vegetables too”

[Dad, will you be home by the end of the year?]

[I don’t know… We seem to be busy right now.]

[I see…]

My father, who works in the IT industry, has been living in Hokkaido for two years now. When he’s not busy, he comes home every week. So it doesn’t feel like he’s working alone at all.

It was my idea to start a habit of posting the pictures on the group line whenever we had dinner. We do forget to do this from time to time though.

[Somewhere under this wide sky, your father is eating, too…]

[What are you talking about, Mom?]

Both of my parents are on good terms. And I am also on good terms with them. I’m sure that makes them happy. After my mother said that, I was thinking of my lover, who is probably eating, alone, under this wide sky…

Somehow I felt lonely, so I sent Aya a picture of my fried lunch box.

She replied immediately. I was expecting something gorgeous for her dinner. But it was… It was broccoli served on a paper plate, I guess it’s the frozen type. And… the dressing on it was just a picture

[What’s for dinner…]

Aya’s personal life was mysterious at best and very random at most… It’s funny…

[What are you smiling about?]

[Eeh? I didn’t smile.]

When I looked up, it was obvious that it was my mom who was grinning at me.

[It’s okay to hangout with your boyfriend. But don’t break the curfew, okay? It’s dangerous for a girl to walk alone when it’s late. Well, if it’s too late, I’ll pick you up at the station.]

[Well, that’s not the case. It’s rare to find a house with curfew or something like that nowadays… Also, it’s not so unsafe here, so it’s okay even if it’s late…]

I quickly changed the subject. I’m not so experienced that I can talk about love to my mother without hesitation. It’s actually different… since Aya is not a boyfriend, but my girlfriend…

But even though I denied it like that, my mom still denied me and said “Hmm… Interesting…”. Ugh.

[Ah~ I can’t wait to talk about love to my daughter… She’s just like me, she’s very popular…]

[Ugh… My mother was popular… That was thousands of years ago…]

My mother laughed and said, [Well, I guess it’s either Cleopatra or me.], I’m not that stupid you know…

At that time, I didn’t doubt that my normal life would continue forever.

As I wrapped up in the feeling of freedom after the test, I was thinking about all the fun things that would follow, such as the winter break, Christmas, and Aya’s birthday, which I really enjoyed.

I never thought that something would change in my daily life.

——————————————————————

TL: Hyou
Proofread: Samheart, Ezu

Hello, TL-san here! Enjoy the prologue of Arioto Vol 3! It took me a month since I contacted Meatbun-san. But whatever, enjoy the read!
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