I’m fine with being the second girlfriend - CH 1

The Mystery Research Club room is located at the end of the second floor of the old school building. It was formerly used as a reception room for visitors, so it has a hot water kettle, a refrigerator, an air conditioner and a set of sofas.

It is a very comfortable space. Next to it, there is a music room, where you can always hear the sound of the piano after class. Some students use it for private practice.

-Who is the most popular girl in our school?

Said Shota Maki, the student council president.

It was after school, in the club room. I was relaxing on the couch as usual, listening to the sound of the piano playing next to me, when suddenly he came in, uttering those words.

-If it’s popularity we’re talking about, it would have to be Hikari Tachibana and Akane Hayasaka.

-I see.

-Which one do you like best, Kirishima?

-It’s been a long time since you last showed your face around here. Why do you ask?

-You like Tachibana, don’t you?

That’s right. I once told this man about a girl I liked… You could say that Tachibana-san is my favorite. And my second favorite is Hayasaka-san. I can still remember the feeling of our hands touching for the first time.

-You are the type of person who likes super cars. Ferrari, Lamborghini and other high-end cars.

-What’s that got to do with it?

-Because Hikari Tachibana is like that. She has beautiful skin, she’s attractive, and her expression is so neutral that she doesn’t show any kind of emotion.

She has long hair, is tall and slim, her body is like that of a model, and she always has a relaxed attitude and no expression on her face. She is often alone, and the temperature seems to drop when you are by her side.

-On the other hand, Hayasaka is a good quality Japanese car.

-That was very rude.

-You are wrong. My goal is to marry Hayasaka. She seems to be a homely girl, and she’s very innocent. Besides being an honor student, she will never be able to cheat on me. The number of boys who have confessed to her and have been rejected is greater than that of Tachibana, so she is someone trustworthy.

-Don’t get carried away by public image alone.

Hayasaka-san is a very nice girl and well-liked by everyone. And when she is the center of attention, she always smiles a little as if she is in trouble.

But despite her modest demeanor, there is one hidden feature: she has a body that would destroy your instincts in a matter of seconds. In other words, she has killer breasts and legs that could blow your mind.

-However, I will never tell her.

-Why aren’t you going to tell her?

-Because if she thinks I’m looking at her with erotic eyes, my chances of being with her will die.

-I think she already knows that.

-Of course not. She’s a high-class girl. She has no such impure thoughts.

Everyone sees her as an icon of purity and seriousness. No matter how popular and good looking a girl is, there will never be someone who does not have impure thoughts.

And at that moment I remembered what Hayasaka-san had told me, «I’m not a good girl.» She is trapped by an image that was created by her environment.

-Maki, did it ever cross your mind that Hayasaka-san is actually an ordinary girl?

She is just an ordinary person who wants to walk hand in hand with the guy she likes, as well as spend time with him. Even Tachibana-san might have the same thought.

As those thoughts invaded my head, I heard a change in the melody of the piano in the music room next door.

-Do you think the girl I like is someone ordinary?

-It’s possible, you shouldn’t focus on the outside.

-You’re right. But, even if there was such a possibility, I wouldn’t know unless we were a couple.

But Hayasaka-san and Maki are not a very likely couple. Is it okay for them to go out together?

-What about you? Is there a chance you could be with Tachibana?

-Zero chance. But I don’t think it’s complicated either.

-Why?

-It’s a common thing that you can’t be with the person you love the most. Some people are liked by everyone, and others are very popular. But only one person gets to have a relationship with that person they want. Which means everyone else will be heartbroken.

-You are very cynical.

-I’m just being realistic.

Pure love is an illusion. In reality, we deceive ourselves and deceive others into falling in love.

-You have a lot of resentment towards love.

-Did you come all the way here to talk to me about love?

-No. I’m here to invite you to Nozaki’s karaoke party.

-Hey, but I’m a terrible singer.

-It doesn’t matter. We’ll just be there for support. Come on, that kid is desperate. We have to help him.

-Well, that’s fine.

I replied sharply as I looked at the clock.

-Well, I have some things to do, so I’d better get going.

-Hey, you’re not going to listen till the end?

Maki points to the music room next door.

-I have to visit a friend who has a cold.

-I see.

But even so, Maki continues to talk.

-Your life is just like that American novel. The boy who looks at the light of the mansion where his dream girl lives while drinking alcohol on the shore of the lake that separates them.

-The Great Gatsby.

-Exactly.

-I’m not as sentimental as Jay Gatsby.

-No, but still, every day you hear the piano playing of the girl you like through this wall that separates you.

He is right. The person who practices the piano is Tachinaba-san. The girl I want the most in my life.

-Just so you know, I was the first one in this room.

-Were you expecting something?

-Not really.

To be honest, Maki is right.

-Being with Tachibana is impossible.

-I know, she has a boyfriend.

My attraction to Hayasaka-san is the same as her attraction to me. We like each other as lovers, but without prioritizing our relationship as official boyfriend and girlfriend.

At the beginning of the summer we discovered that we had a great connection, so we went with it. And that’s where our adventure began. We are not as different as an ordinary couple, except for the fact that we already have someone else we love more.

That’s why I’m so excited to hold her hand, and if she has a cold, it gives me reason to go visit her.

-Hello, sorry to bother you.

I was standing in front of the door of Hayasaka-san’s house. And it was she herself in person who greeted me.

-Why aren’t you lying down?

-Because I’m home alone.

-Huh?

-Come on in.

Everything happened so naturally. Hayasaka-san turned her back to me as if she didn’t care, and I entered the place without even thinking about it.

When I took off my shoes, I was momentarily taken aback.

Hayasaka-san is wearing a hoodie over her pajamas, it seems that the cold is affecting her too much. She looks too sexy though, perhaps because her outfit is too tight, and highlights the lines of her body.

I almost wondered what would happen if I hugged her from behind, but quickly dismissed the thought. I’m sure she wouldn’t like me doing something like that in such a delicate state as her cold.

-This is my room.

Hayasaka-san showed me into her room. It was a very clean and tidy place. The pencil case and pencils on her desk were colorful and very feminine.

-Here, I brought you a drink and a yogurt.

-Thank you. You can sit there.

She sits on the floor with me and swallows half a bottle of the energy drink I brought him. She still had a fever and her face was burning.

-I’m sorry for coming so abruptly, I’d better go and come back when you’re not alone.

-No, I’m glad you’re here, Kirishima-kun. I want to talk to you more.

-But you aren’t in a good shape.

-Well, I can lie down on the bed. So don’t go yet, let’s keep talking some more.

Hayasaka-san lies down on the bed and covers her head with the blanket. I told her what happened at school today and she smiled happily as she listened to my words. I didn’t tell her about the conversation I had with Maki after school, I just told her that I was invited to karaoke.

-I want to go with you.

-What?

Nozaki is our classmate, he doesn’t have enough courage to approach the girl he likes, so he decided to ask everyone out in a kind of «party» as a front to conquer that person.

-Why, Hayasaka-san?

-I have also received the invitation. The number of people is getting quite large. I didn’t know Kirishima-kun was going, so I replied that I would go when I got over my cold.

-I see, so he’s gathering people at random.

-We have to pretend we don’t know each other.

-Right. If I get along with Hayasaka-san, I’ll earn the hatred of all the boys.

-No, I don’t mean it.

Hayasaka-san showed me her smartphone screen, opened the group chat where all the guests were, and pointed to an icon with her finger.

-A bear?

-You don’t know what it’s about?

-I don’t know anyone who has a bear.

-Unlike the icon, she is a very beautiful person. A very luxurious and special girl.

-It can’t be…

-Yes. This is the icon of Tachibana-san.

Hayasaka-san looks at me and says with her usual annoyed smile.

-Should I help Kirishima-kun get along with Tachibana-san?

-You don’t have to do that.

-That’s good. I really like you, Kirishima-kun. It would be a bit painful for me if you had asked me something like that.

Hayasaka-san is a bit unsteady due to her fever, and inevitably, the conversation stalled, as we have run out of topics of conversation.

We were alone in her room, with no one else in the house. Everything was completely silent, and I could hear the clock ticking. I tried to stand up as I said, «Well, I guess this is it.»

But before I did anything else, Hayasaka-san stopped me.

-Hey, Kirishima-kun. Come here.

She expressed, as she flipped the sheet over.

-Let’s try the simple contact effect.

Yesterday she seemed so excited to have held hands. She even seemed to wish the road would never end.

-Hayasaka-san, do you want me to sleep with you?

-I thought it was obvious.

I am terrified that she would say those words with such seriousness.

-I want to hold your hand. Let’s get under the covers together.

I don’t know if this is a temporary loss of reason due to fever, or if it is really Hayasaka-san from behind the image of her purity and innocence.

-You have a high fever, you are not being rational right now.

-No, you’re wrong.

-I am telling the truth. A person’s ability to think is reduced when they have a fever. The frontal lobe of the brain functions with difficulty.

-You’re wrong, I’m completely rational.

-And I don’t have to get under the sheet with you. I can hold your hand from the outside.

-I don’t think it’s good for you, Kirishima-kun.

Hayasaka-san makes an angry face. But he also looks like he’s having a bit of fun.

-Kirishima-kun doesn’t want to get under the covers with me?

-It’s not that I don’t want to, but I have a feeling that holding hands won’t be enough.

-I… I wouldn’t mind.

-Hayasaka-san, you must calm down, this is not-….

-Isn’t that what people think when they are in love? If I’m a good girl, I should follow the proper order of a relationship. But Kirishima-kun said we could be together without being tied by those things.

We are slaves to an image created by the people around us. People have dreams, others want to have many friends, and others want to make a living from something they are passionate about. But when you feel obliged to act according to everyone’s expectations, it becomes painful.

Hayasaka-san is tied to the image of what is expected of her. For this reason, we had decided that, at least in our love relationship, we would not borrow the values and image by which everyone is governed. We would do things our own way.

-Hey, Kirishima-kun. I don’t have to be a good girl in front of you, do I?

The expression on Hayasaka-san’s face as she flipped the sheets over and waited for me was strangely sexy.

-Then you should at least get under the covers with me and hold my hand.

-…Okay.

It’s not as if I didn’t expect something to happen having entered a girl’s room. But why would she want me to hold her hand while lying on the bed?

Those thoughts invaded my head as I approached her.

Hayasaka-san was sweating a little from the heat, and I could feel the humidity and heat in the air. Her pajamas were sticking to her skin.

-No, this is not a good idea!

I came to my senses and got out of bed. I was almost carried away by the situation.

-Aaah! I was so close!

Hayasaka-san looks disappointed. But she did not give up at all, and immediately thought of something and spoke with a wry smile on her face.

-Why don’t you think of it as practice?

-Practice?

-You can practice for when you are in the same bed with Tachibana-san someday.

-No, such thoughts are not good, Hayasaka-san.

I don’t know if this is the right thing to do. Even though we are lovers, I don’t want to use her to fill my loneliness….

-Even if you deny it, there is a part of you that says otherwise.

Hayasaka-san continued speaking.

-So why don’t you use me for practice? Or am I so unattractive that you don’t even want me for that?

-Not really…

I’m not sure I’m ready for this.

-I’m starting to feel cold.

-Hurry up and jump in!

-If I don’t, my cold will get worse.

-Do it already!

-Well, when I am dead, please weep at my grave.

-Hayasaka-san, you’re a cheat!

I had no choice but to climb into the bed, for if I don’t, Hayasaka-san will be left uncovered and will not be able to recover.

-I’m just going to hold your hand.

-Yes, we’ll just hold hands, I promise.

I crawl into the futon with trepidation. Hayasaka-san looked so happy to see me. When I lay down, Hayasaka-san pulled the blanket over me.

-You don’t have to be so distant.

-Hayasaka-san, give me your hand.

-All right.

But I couldn’t find her hand under the sheets. Meanwhile, the tip of my hand slips into something soft.

-Kya!

Hayasaka-san let out a sweet sound, and I hastily withdrew my hand as I apologized to her. All that remained in my fingertips was the taut fabric and the feeling of softness under it. I think it was between her thighs.

-Kirishima-kun… You’re very aggressive.

Hayasaka-san looks embarrassed.

-No, no, no, no, I was just trying to hold your hand.

-Then grab it quickly.

-I don’t know where your hands are.

-Here.

I moved my body to look for his hand and approached Hayasaka-san. That’s when it happened. Hayasaka-san went beyond holding hands and clung to me with all her emotions.

-You promised we would only hold hands.

-I don’t remember saying that.

Her body was soft, warm and slightly damp with sweat.

-Hehehehe, I can smell Kirishima-kun.

Hayasaka-san’s breath on my chest makes my skin warm.

-I’ve always wanted to do something like this.

Her face is wet and her hands grip my uniform shirt tightly.

-Don’t you want to hug me, Kirishima-kun?

-I don’t think it’s the right thing to do.

I kept my hands out of it.

-I’m afraid I’ll lose control if I hug you.

-I don’t mind if you do.

-Hayasaka-san, you are completely on fire.

-When you heard that Tachibana-san was going to the karaoke, you seemed a little happy.

-Sorry.

-No problem. She’s someone very beautiful, she’s the perfect girl. Although, there are some things I beat her at.

-What do you mean?

-My body.

He clings to me tighter as he says those words.

-Wait…

Then she squeezes my leg between her thighs. What a complicated situation, she keeps squeezing her breasts against me tightly, and since she is in her pajamas, she has no bra, and I can feel her naked breasts.

-Kirishima-kun is my boyfriend, so he can do whatever he wants to me. I’m happy no matter what he does to me.

-That’s a very ridiculous thing to say.

-Fufu, I’m not such an innocent girl now, am I?

Hayasaka-san seems to be enjoying the situation.

-But it’s okay, I’ve been a good girl at school and at home. When I dress shabbily or say things like that, people are very disappointed.

Many not only become disappointed, they even become angry. They do not want their image of her to be destroyed.

-I don’t have to be a nice girl in front of Kirishima-kun, do I?

-Right.

-So, let’s do bad things together.

I hugged Hayasaka-san’s body tightly, and I could feel her body so clearly, the smell of her hair, her breath, the fabric of her pajamas, everything trapped me in such a way as if I never wanted to leave. She placed her hand on my back and hugged me even more tightly.

-I feel that I have become Kirishima-kun’s property.

-You are very emotional.

-I want you to drag me further.

I felt her warm breath on my chest, hugging me tightly or weakly, as if she wanted to feel my touch.

-Hey Kirishima-kun, remember how I feel. Remember it when you sleep alone and feel lonely. From now on, every night I’ll feel lonely without you by my side. Because this feels so good.

-Hayasaka-san, it’s time for me to leave.

-I want to do worse.

Hayasaka-san pushes me down and climbs on top of me while pressing her breasts against me. It’s clearly an intentional act, I no longer feel embarrassment at this situation, but there is no trace of reasoning in my mind anymore.

Maybe it’s not good for me to do this while I’m in love with someone else. Maybe it’s wrong, maybe it’s not. But we’ve made our own decision to do this. So I want to go as far as I can.

-Hey Kirishima-kun, I want to give you my cold.

-In fact, I was thinking a moment ago that I’d like it too.

-Really?

-If it’s Hayasaka-san’s cold, I don’t care.

-But, can you catch a cold just by hugging me? Isn’t there a better way to catch it? You’re smart, Kirishima-kun, think of something.

Hayasaka-san’s words make me go for it without hesitation.

-Through saliva.

-That’s right!

-Are you sure?

-Yes

And with that, we kissed. Hayasaka-san’s lips were soft, warm and moist.

-I think I like it. But is it the right way to go?

-I don’t know.

It is also my first time.

-Kirishima-kun, I want more.

I kissed her again and again as we let ourselves go.

-More, more, more, more…

Finally, Hayasaka’s tongue enters my mouth.

But it stops moving immediately. I don’t know what to do next. Hayasaka seems embarrassed to do it herself and, despite her clear act of invitation, she stiffens and closes her eyes tightly.

Hayasaka-san’s tongue is so good that it makes me feel good. Then, awkwardly, our tongues begin to frolic with each other.

I pushed Hayasaka-san’s tongue back and this time I entered her mouth. Her mouth is small, warm, moist and softly compressed.

-Kirishima-kun, give me your saliva.

We exchange saliva with each other. The sound generated by our kisses reaches our ears, making us more and more excited.

Because we are lovers, we want to do the most fucked up things, do things that people blame us for, things that make them frown, things that are immoral and bad.

Before I knew it, I was placing Hayasaka-san on top of me, following my impulses. Hayasaka-san’s pajamas have fallen off and her breasts are bare.

We looked at each other for a moment and then she responded by saying:

-It’s alright.

I’m sure it takes a lot of courage for a girl to say something like that. I have no choice but to go through with it, so, very carefully, I carefully unbutton the buttons of her pajamas.

But the next moment, I notice that Hayasaka-san still has a stiff expression on her face. Maybe she’s not ready for something like that, so I stop my hand and pull it away from his body.

-I’m sorry, I was a bit hasty. I could have been more careful, but I’ve never done anything like that before….

But Hayasaka-san shakes her head at my words.

-It’s not Kirishima-kun’s fault. I feel that way too. But…

She apologized as she hid her face behind a pillow.

-…The face of the other person I like appeared in my head.

-It is not good to go too far.

Hayasaka-san said as she straightened her messy clothes.

-Because we like someone else?

-Yes

After that, we were sitting on the bed. Just like I have Tachibana-san, Hayasaka-san has another person whom she loves very much.

The feeling we have for each other is noble, but we were hesitant to cross a dangerous line until we had come to a conclusion about the person we most wanted in the first place.

-Maybe because we are lovers, I tend to be aggressive in some ways. If only you were that special person I want, I would be someone different around you. But it’s not good for me to be that way with you, not just for that person, but for you too.

It is true that being lovers has its advantages, and its limitations as well.

-We’d better add some rules.

When we decided to be lovers, we set two rules. First, we must not let the other person know that we are together.

Number two, when one of us is ready to be with that special person, we will dissolve our relationship.

This means that we will give priority to such sentiment.

-What rules do you want to add?

-We can only kiss.

-Yes, I think that would be best.

Even though we are lovers, it does not mean that we can treat each other disrespectfully.

-Well, I’d better get going.

-Wait.

As I was getting ready to leave. Hayasaka-san showed me her phone. Again, she showed me the Karaoke chat group, and this time, she pointed to the icon of an American superhero.

-Whose icon is that?

-Tachibana-san’s boyfriend. Looks like he’s joining us.

-I see.

We are in the same year, so I assumed it would happen.

-Kirishima-kun, can you do it?

If things continue like this, I will watch the scene where Tachibana-san and her boyfriend treat each other affectionately.

-No problem at all. In fact, it’s fine, I’m looking forward to it.

-You can’t say that to me when you’re shaking like that.

I am cold. My vision is distorted. I think I’ve already caught a cold.

-It’s alright, when that day is over, let’s meet in a place where no one can see us.

Hayasaka-san hugs me from behind.

-I will be a great comfort to you.

During the weekend, quite a number of people gathered for karaoke. Few people know this event is about Nozaki wanting to conquer a girl. So everyone thinks that we are here to have fun and nothing else.

About 20 people gathered in front of the station in the early afternoon. We were worried about the safety of so many people, but Maki quickly led them in and got them into the party room.

At first I sat down without thinking about it, but when I saw how they were organized, I decided to sit next to Maki.

-After all, Hayasaka-san is popular.

When I sit down again, Maki reproaches me with his words.

-You’ve been beaten, eh.

Hayasaka-san was surrounded by many boys, just as if she were a princess with her suitors around.

-Hayasaka-san, what kind of song will you sing?

-You look very pretty in those clothes.

-Would you like me to get you a drink?

Hayasaka-san becomes the center of attention when all the boys start talking to her from all directions.

-Well, I, um, well, I, um, haha….

Hayasaka-san is a very shy person when she is the center of attention, so it is inevitable that she just smiles awkwardly. She is still treated as if she were a doll.

-They are working hard to win her over.

Maki said.

-You’re right, she stands out more than Nozaki-kun, the star of the show.

-In that sense, Kirishima is great. Since he’s dressed as he should be.

-…Hmm, thanks, I guess.

Did you just tell me that I didn’t dress appropriately?

-Hayasaka is a real angel, isn’t she? She’s so kind to those people who have a lot of ulterior motives.

-Yes, I’m impressed, but surely she must be upset deep down.

-Really? I’m just worried she’ll fall in love with the wrong guy.

-I only say what I see.

-And doesn’t that drive you crazy? Do you want to be by her side?

-Not exactly.

-Kirishima, look over there.

In the middle of the whole noisy room, there is a girl handling the Denmoku with a cold expression on her face. She was wearing a bare-shouldered dress, and maintaining a good posture.

It was Tachibana-san, who was sitting by the wall, and her boyfriend was beside her. He was a young and handsome boy, his teeth were shiny and he is from a rich family, not to mention his good figure.

In other words, it’s the complete opposite of me.

-It’s like he’s watching her, it’s really annoying.

-No, it’s completely natural for couples to be together. I can’t help but feel envious.

While talking to Maki, Tachibana-san looked up for a moment. My eyes met hers, and I couldn’t help but lower my gaze.

-Kirishima, why are you looking down? You should burn that image into your retina.

-No, I see her whenever I can.

-Tch, through her boyfriend’s account? Come on, man…

Tachibana-san’s boyfriend posts pictures of her on social media every day. He seems to be unconcerned about his partner’s privacy.

-I don’t know how you are able to put up with such a punishment.

-I also ask myself the same question. I feel pain in my heart when I see her. Still, I can’t help but look at her every day.

-You’re a little stiff.

But still, I wonder if the two of them are doing well in their relationship.

Being in this place is torture.

I can’t help but look at Tachibana-san, as she sang a song her boyfriend requested, and also clapped her hands as she did so. What is this, why do I have to watch this scene of the girl I like?

Tachibana-san continues with a cold expression on her face. But I guess she will laugh when she is alone with her boyfriend. I was so desperate, I even sang a song about my lost love.

And it didn’t work at all to get her attention, as she kept driving the Denmoku the whole time while I was singing.

No one looked at me, and they didn’t applaud either. It was really pathetic. Once the song was over, everyone looked at each other, as if I was telling them to react to my performance. I guess I wasn’t very good.

But, one of the girls spoke in a reserved voice.

-I-I think it’s been good.

It was Hayasaka-san.

-It was truly unique, and quite remarkable….

But as expected, such words unleashed chaos in the place.

-Why is Hayasaka-san siding with Kirishima?

Everyone was asking the same question. Hayasaka-san also noticed and hurried to calm the situation.

-No, that’s not what I meant. I just meant that, even if you’re not good, you can make it look like you are. Kirishima’s song sounded like a pig cry, didn’t it?

Hayasaka-san, I agree that no one should know about our relationship, but you don’t need to be so cruel.

-Oh come on, Kirishima, he’s a good boy.

Maki pats me on the back.

-You sang it wrong on purpose, didn’t you?

-…Ah yes. You’re right, it was all on purpose.

As I spoke, I sent a message to Hayasaka-san; «Just pretend we don’t know each other.»

It would be a disaster if Hayasaka-san’s best friend found out that I’m dating her.  When she reads my message, she shudders and starts making circles with her fingers.

When everyone finished singing, it was time to chat.

It was decided that we should talk about our first love. It’s a good way to liven things up. The kids who are good at talking about their first love will share their funny stories.

When it was my turn, I told him a story about my school days.

-During the summer vacations I stayed at a relative’s house. I stayed there for a week and made friends with a girl who lived there.

She was very beautiful and she was always on my mind. In other words, I was in love. My first love. We played together in the park day after day and I was happy. But one day I saw her playing with another boy, and I felt a pain in my heart, so I left.

-I don’t want you to be friends with any boy other than me.

I know now that it was jealousy, but at the time I didn’t know what I was feeling and I couldn’t control it.

-I guess those words were unpleasant for her, because the next day, she stopped going to the park.

It was a story of a bitter first love gone wrong. I looked at Tachibana-san, but she had no non-expressive reaction to my story. She didn’t seem to have any particular impression. Some of the girls teased me, partly to liven things up.

-The jealousy of men is disgusting.

-You are right

-Disgusting~

I guess so. I think so, too. But one of the girls didn’t like the responses she was getting from the rest.

-I don’t think it’s disgusting.

Again, it was Hayasaka-san

-…I would be jealous too if the person I like was friends with someone else.

Once again she defended me, but this time, her words made everyone feel very interested.

-Is there someone you like too, Hayasaka-san?

-Have you ever been jealous?

-I want Hayasaka-san to be jealous of me!

Her eyes roll from side to side as the men ask her questions.

-W-W-W-What if I like someone? Well, I… I don’t have anyone yet!

He responded awkwardly and nervously.

-You guys are harassing her!

One of the girls exclaimed.

-No more questions, come on, leave.

The boys are still happy and eager to keep asking questions. On the other hand, Hayasaka-san seems more awkward than usual.

So I sent her a message again through my phone.

«You don’t have to worry about me!»

Hayasaka-san looked at her phone and turned red while making circles with her fingers. You don’t know what you’re doing when you react to me. While I was trying to reprimand her, one of the girls came up behind me and spoke to me.

-Oh, by the way, Kirishima, you’re in the mystery research club, right?

She told me that het brother is a graduate of the school and a former club member.

-Now you can try again with that first love of yours.

-Why?

-Because I know what’s hidden in that club. And it is the manual of love.

-Ah, so that’s what you mean.

There was once a high school alumnus who attempted to write a mystery novel on the subject of love. First, he focused on the three components of a mystery: how, who and why.

He wanted to write a mystery romance, but, perhaps as a result of his adolescence, he completed a book of secrets that was simply a study of love, and he called it «The Handbook of Love» which has been handed down from generation to generation.

-It tells you how to pick up girls, doesn’t it?

The «How to» section of the love notes. The single contact effect was also mentioned there.

-According to my brother, the guy who did it is a genius with an IQ of 180.

-It’s hard to believe.

Some of the research is based on psychology and behavioral science, but much of it is stupid.

-Huh? Is there really such a thing as a romance manual?

Other boys who were listening to us, intruded on the conversation.

-Kirishima, are you reading that book?

They seemed to find it interesting that a person like me was talking to them about love.

-So reading a manual on how to flirt, you’re really trying too hard.

-If you’re doing that kind of research, does that mean you’re going to get better looking?

-Stupid, reading doesn’t make you more handsome.

The guys started making fun of me, and I also started doing the same towards myself, after all, I’m a big skinny guy who wears glasses, so teasing is the order of the day. It was all jokes and nothing more, not aiming to offend me, but there was one girl who didn’t like that I was the center of the teasing.

-That is not true.

Of course, it was Hayasaka-san. It seems that my message did not get through at all.

-Kirishima-kun is a good boy!

She clutches the hem of her skirt tightly. But then she realizes that the room has gone quiet and hurries to correct the situation.

-I mean, it’s good to be serious about your love life, and Kirishima-kun’s appearance is quite normal….

Hayasaka was speechless at that moment, hesitated and then said.

-I like that about you, Kirishima-kun….

This is not good at all. Hayasaka-san, you’re getting too nervous. And as expected, everyone lost their heads.

-Hey, did you just say you like Kirishima?

-It’s a lie, isn’t it?

Who Hayasaka-san likes is the boys’ biggest concern. She has to deny it quickly.

I can’t use my phone this time, so I’m praying that she denies the situation completely.

-Huh, no. When I say I like Kirishima-kun, I mean I like him as a character….

Girls around Hayasaka-san respond to her words

-Why is everyone going crazy?! It’s like Hayasaka saying she’s in love with a clown.

-Um, but if you think about it properly, it could be.

-Right… It would even be interesting.

-Akane-chan, are there any tricks you want Kirishima to do?

-What do you mean by that?

Hayasaka-san’s face becomes serious. And he turns his head with dark eyes as he begins to whisper.

-Everyone treats Kirishima-kun like that, but…. The truth is, I don’t care about anyone else and Kirishima-kun is…. He’s unique…

He had a dangerous atmosphere, and it seemed that he was going to say something terrible. Everyone sensed that Hayasaka-san’s mood was different from usual, and they did not know what to do.

I’m the only one who can save the day….

-Hayasaka, tell me what you want!

I am willing to sacrifice

-Tell me something I can act with! I’m trying to make people laugh!

-Huh?

Hayasaka-san shouts in confusion.

-I don’t remember you having that kind of character, Kirishima-kun.

-Ah!

Hayasaka-san had a little emotional misunderstanding. When she saw me being made fun of, she would get angry, partly because of me, because it frustrated her that everyone was trying to impose their image on me, even if it was just jokes and nothing more.

In any case, I will do my best and reverse this situation.

-So tell me something I can use to make everyone laugh!

-That’s not what I’m talking about….

Hayasaka-san looks in all directions in grief. But my tension draws her to me, and her expression brightens, which is a good sign.

-Hmmm~

I thought she would know what I was trying to do. But, the harsh reality is… She turned out to be more clumsy than I imagined!

-Um… How about a rap?

Eh… Did you really ever feel that I would be good at rapping? My face became expressionless at the situation, and Hayasaka-san was nervous as she wondered if she had said something wrong. But that makes it perfect, as it makes it more believable in the eyes of the rest.

-Sing an acapella!

Maki shouted.

How good it is to be able to count on your friends in the most difficult moments of your life. Well, I have no choice but to do it. So I picked up the microphone, and started checking its status by tapping it a couple of times.

The atmosphere that was created was pleasant throughout the room. Everyone had already forgotten about the love Hayasaka-san had expressed for me, and that was perfect.

I would put a difficult song on karaoke to ruin it, and I would sing it badly anyway. Once the song is finished, people can tweak it nicely and everything will be back to normal.

Even though I was satisfied with the result, I couldn’t help but feel a little sad when I saw Tachibana-san still not paying attention to me. It’s painful when the girl you want the most is still not paying attention to you.

A moment later, she lifts her gaze and looks at me with her usual expressionless face. I can’t read her emotions at all, I wish someone would end this pain soon. She’s not even able to at least smile a little for me?

What I want from her is not only her feelings. I want her to see me the way I see her.

I want her to be able to accompany me wherever I go, to walk beside me in the hallway at school, and to think about me before he goes to sleep.

The place where I am now is too far away from that place, but, anyway, Tachibana-san has a boyfriend, and he is by her side right now.

But even though everything was going well, it started to go relatively wrong from one moment to the next. Someone cut off the microphone’s operation. And to my surprise, this time it wasn’t Hayasaka-san. It was someone else from whom no one would expect such an act, Hikari Tachibana.

-This type of behavior is not allowed.

Tachibana-san expressed her displeasure with a firm tone. As she was a girl who gave off a slightly intimidating presence, everyone was completely silent in the room as they were expectant of her next words. She proceeds to take a sip of her melon drink, as if her work was already done.

And before sitting down, she added.

-Some people don’t like such behavior, so I don’t think you should do it.

Tachibana-san did not say who she was referring to, and proceeded to forget the subject. But we all knew in our minds who he was referring to, and everyone looked at Hayasaka-san at the same time.

Her face was dark and dejected. This was all because she didn’t like me playing the role of the fool in the group. And then I indirectly forced her to keep me playing such a role.

-I’m sorry.

Hayasaka-san said as everyone’s eyes were on her.

She tried to smile again, but such an expression did not last long on her face and it darkened again before she finally hid her face in her bangs.

-I don’t think I’ve recovered from my cold yet. I’m going home now.

She grabbed her wallet, stood up and placed her hand on the doorknob.

-I’m sorry, Tachibana-san, I didn’t mean to make you feel uncomfortable.

She looked down, said nothing more and ran out of the room. Everyone was astonished.

-Don’t you find it strange that Hayasaka-san was protecting Kirishima at all times?

One of the boys sitting next to him said unconcernedly.

-Are you trying to say she likes him?

-I don’t think so. Hayasaka-san is so kind that she just can’t help but protect anyone.

All the boys began to convince themselves with that idea, that she was nothing more than an angel who was willing to protect the weakest.

-Um. My sister is calling me.

I used that excuse so that I could leave the place. When I was about to close the door, I looked back once more, and saw Tachinaba-san fiddling with the Tenmoku in a carefree manner.

It was dusk, and Hayasaka-san was walking down an alley just off the main street.

-I’m sorry.

As soon as she sees me reach her, she looks down.

-I know I didn’t behave well today.

Hayasaka-san keeps her bangs down to hide her expression.

-I knew it was a joke, but I didn’t want Kirishima-kun to be treated lightly. Did it bother you?

-Not at all. I was happy.

-But you made a mistake by chasing me. From Tachibana-san’s point of view, Kirishima-kun seems to like me.

I have my doubts. First of all, Tachibana-san hardly paid any attention to me.

-But what you say is true, I like you, Hayasaka-san.

-I’m your lover, remember?

-My favorite lover, that means I like you very much.

-I see.

Hayasaka-san hugs me while expressing an «Aah.»

-I wanted to help Kirishima-kun, but Tachibana-san ruined everything.

-Actually, it seemed to help you.

-No, I did all that to help you, but I think she noticed. Are you upset?

-It doesn’t matter. Besides, she has a boyfriend.

I can’t aspire to be with the girl I want most at the moment.

-But still, Kirishima-kun, you really like Tachibana-san, don’t you?

-I don’t know.

-When she was at karaoke, all you did was watch her.

-I don’t remember.

-You looked at her all the time, and you were less and less cheerful.

Hayasaka-san continued.

-You were angry because Tachibana-san put a straw in her boyfriend’s drink. That doesn’t mean anything, I usually do that too with guys I’m not interested in.

Yes, that’s right, Hayasaka-san had placed a straw in the drink of the boy next to her.

-Yes, and that’s when I got depressed again.

-Oh, I see. You were jealous.

Hayasaka-san seemed satisfied.

-I couldn’t help you, but as I promised, I will comfort you a lot.

Hayasaka-san approached me, but stopped at the last minute while looking at her feet.

-Today I feel a little embarrassed, I don’t know why.

-You don’t have to do something you don’t want to do.

-No, no. I want to do it for you now. It is very important.

However, Hayasaka-san’s face was still red and she could not move. So this time I hugged her from my side.

-Kirishima-kun

Hayasaka-san’s arm goes around my back. It’s true that I feel calmer. I am very happy. Just as I think this, Hayasaka-san closes her eyes and looks at me. I had imagined a hug, but Hayasaka-san had a different idea.

-It tastes like melon soda.

After kissing me, she smiled and pressed her face against my chest with a sweet expression.

-Hayasaka-san, you have a habit of hugging.

-Yes, I like it.

We stayed like that for a while.

-I’m sorry, Kirishima, but you’re still not number one for me.

-I know.

The feeling is mutual.

A few days later. Nozaki-kun scored a date with the girl he wanted. Surprisingly, the other girl also liked Nozaki-kun.

The fact that the two started dating was shocking to everyone, as there were a lot of guys who were heartbroken when they heard the news.

It is always difficult to be with the person you love the most. For this reason, the decision I made with Hayasaka-san to be lovers was the right one.

But there are always rules which we must follow, once we both have achieved our goal of being with that person, this will be over, in case one of us achieves our goal and the other does not, the relationship is still broken.

In other words, for both me and Hayasaka-san, only one of us will be unhappy. Or possibly both of us will be happy with that person. It’s a 50-50 bet, anything can happen.

After lessons in the club room on the second floor of the old school building. I was wondering why I couldn’t hear the sound of the piano in the next room, when suddenly my name was called.

-Kirishima-kun.

I looked up to see who it was, and before I knew it, there was a girl standing at the entrance. It was Tachibana-san.

When I looked at it again, she was very sparsely pigmented, like a summer mirage. But it was real.

-Um…

Tachibana-san nodded her head, trying to say something.

-I’m sorry, I forgot what I was going to say.

-Then I guess it wasn’t important.

-I guess… I’ll start practicing the piano now.

-All right.

Tachibana-san proceeded to turn around and go on her way, but before that happened, she turned to look at me.

-The karaoke the other day.

He expressed with a brusque tone.

-You were a good singer.

-I see.

-You were trying to hum a low note, weren’t you?

Tachinaba-san continued speaking.

-Kirishima-kun, when you entered the room that day, you were sitting next to the girl from the book club. You were saving a place for Nozaki-kun, weren’t you? When I heard that the two of them started dating, I could understand everything.

It’s true that Nozaki-kun took care to be by the side of the girl he liked. Tachibana-san saw that.

-Is that what you were trying to do?

-It’s nice to help other people.

-What about the clown character you submitted to Hayasaka-san?

-What do you mean?

-Nothing.

I started to wonder why Tachibana-san came to tell me all those things related to Karaoke, and when I thought he would leave again, he took out a paper from his pocket that was folded.

-I came to give you this.

Tachibana-san holds out the paper to me. When I took it, I touched her thin, white fingers.

-What is this?

-Open it.

I opened the paper and saw that his name was written in beautiful handwriting.

Membership form. Mystery Research Club, Year 2, Class 6. Hikari Tachibana.  No… Is this for real?

-What is this about?

-I guess it’s more than obvious. Is there a problem?

Tachibana-san does not look away. The iris of her beautiful eyes has the power to make you say no.

-No… There is no problem.

When I said that, Tachibana-san nodded and said «Good.»

-See you tomorrow, Chairman.

What the hell is she up to?

-By the way, Tachibana-san, there is something I want to clarify.

-What?

-This is a research club, not a study group.

-President, you are very strict.

-I know.