Tag: chapter

“Muu…” (Sophia)

“Sophia-chan, I’m sorry, okay? Don’t sulk so much.” (Nadeshiko)

While we were soaking in the bath together, Nadeshiko-senpai smiled awkwardly as she apologized to me, seeing me puffing up my cheeks.

In the end, while I was feeling exhausted, she had already washed her own body, and I couldn’t help but feel like I lost.

“Senpai, you’re so mean…” (Sophia)

“No, that’s not it! I just wanted to help wash you…!” (Nadeshiko)

Lies, absolute lies.

Because she was enjoying it.

She was enjoying teasing me.

Holding a grudge, I shot Nadeshiko-senpai a glare, silently showing my displeasure.

“Ahaha…” (Nadeshiko)

When I simply gave her a silent look, Nadeshiko-senpai began to laugh and her gaze started to wander.

As I gazed at her, I made a mental note to be more careful and avoid bathing together in the future.

However, I suddenly remembered.

We still had to eat dinner, but after that, it had already been decided that we would be sleeping in the same bed.

“Please don’t do anything weird in bed, okay…? If you do, I’ll go sleep in my parents’ room…” (Sophia)

Just in case, I gave her a warning.

Honestly, I didn’t want to sleep in the bed my mom and dad usually used, but my own safety was more important.

If it came down to it, I really would run to my parents’ room.

“I won’t, so don’t worry, okay?” (Nadeshiko)

Senpai reassured me with a gentle smile, but after what had just happened, there was no way I could trust her.

“Alright, I think we can finally have an open and honest conversation now…” (Nadeshiko)

As I watched Nadeshiko-senpai cautiously, she suddenly pressed her hands together and said something ominous.

“Sophia-chan, you like Kento-kun, don’t you?” (Nadeshiko)

“—!?” (Sophia)

Out of nowhere, Nadeshiko-senpai hit me with an outrageous statement.

“Wh-Wh-What are you saying!? No, that’s not true…!” (Sophia)

I had let my guard down, thinking that topic wouldn’t come up, so I hurriedly denied it.

But—Nadeshiko-senpai simply smiled as if she had no other choice, placing her hand gently against my cheek.

“You don’t have to hide it. No one’s going to blame you or spread it around.” (Nadeshiko)

As she softly stroked my cheek, I gradually began to regain my composure.

Nadeshiko-senpai definitely wouldn’t do something like that.

If she were the type of person to spread rumors, Kento-kun wouldn’t place his trust in her.

But… I couldn’t figure out why she was bringing this up.

So, I decided to go on the offensive.

“Se-Senpai, you… like onii-chan too, don’t you…?” (Sophia)

From what I had seen so far, it was obvious that Nadeshiko-senpai had feelings for Kento-kun.

If we were going to talk openly, it wouldn’t be right for her to avoid answering honestly.

When I pointed that out, Nadeshiko-senpai’s face turned bright red.

She was probably aware of it herself.

Despite her face turning red, she didn’t seem to be that flustered.

She must have expected that I might turn the question back on her, so she had mentally prepared for this.

“Yeah… I like him. I mean, he’s kind and cool…” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai, blushing, started fidgeting with her fingers but admitted it without hesitation.

I was sure she wouldn’t acknowledge it…

“A-Aren’t you worried about the rules…?” (Sophia)

She had confessed so easily that I couldn’t hide my shock.

Seeing me like that, she gazed at me gently.

“The rules only say we can’t date. They don’t forbid having romantic feelings.” (Nadeshiko)

“But… people will still look at you differently. And if onii-chan realizes it, he might distance himself from you…” (Sophia)

“Do you really think Kento-kun would do something so cold?” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai tilted her head slightly and looked straight into my eyes.

That question made me freeze.

“I… don’t think he would…” (Sophia)

He was kinder than anyone.

Even if he noticed our feelings, he probably wouldn’t distance himself from us.

Because he would know that it would hurt us.

Most likely, unless we directly confessed, he would act as if he hadn’t noticed, even if he did.

“Yeah, I feel the same way. So, you don’t have to hide it too much, okay?” (Nadeshiko)

“Too much” — she must be referring to me calling him “onii-chan”.

Even though she had told me before that it was fine as long as we were okay with it, it seemed like she had been waiting for a situation where she could talk openly to me about this.

“Are you saying I should stop calling him ‘onii-chan’…?” (Sophia)

I couldn’t help but see things that way, so I decided to confirm.

“No, that’s not it. If you want to call him that, I think it’s fine, and Kento-kun might secretly be happy about it too. After all… it seems like a lot of boys have a desire to be called ‘onii-chan’ by someone.” (Nadeshiko)

She seemed to be saying that as long as it was something we truly wanted, then it was fine.

I didn’t really understand the whole “desire” thing, but it seemed that Nadeshiko-senpai was quite knowledgeable about what boys wanted.

“That’s why I only have one thing to say. I’ll respect whatever Sophia-chan decides, but I don’t want you to lie to yourself about your feelings. Because I think you’ll regret it later.” (Nadeshiko)

I had thought she was mean, but in the end, she was truly kind.

I could tell she was genuinely worried about me.

“Are you sure about this…? I mean… if I’m honest with myself, that would make me your rival, Nadeshiko-senpai…” (Sophia)

With that, I indirectly admitted my feelings for Kento-kun.

In reality, no one likes having a romantic rival.

Everyone wants to be the one who ends up with the person they love.

“Kento-kun is kind, cool… and just a wonderful person. It’s only natural to fall for him.” (Nadeshiko)

Without any hint of embarrassment, Nadeshiko-senpai showered Kento-kun with praise.

It was clear that she really loved Kento-kun, and whenever she spoke about him, she couldn’t help but gush.

“Since I fell for such a wonderful person, I always knew there would be other girls who liked him too… That’s why I try not to let it bother me. You wouldn’t want to be at odds with someone over it, right?” (Nadeshiko)

Just as she appeared, Nadeshiko-senpai seemed to have a personality that disliked conflict.

Even if it involved a love rival—that was just the kind of person she was.

“But… are you really okay with someone else taking onii-chan away from you?” (Sophia)

“Hmm, well… of course, I wouldn’t be happy about it.” (Nadeshiko)

She smiled wryly, lowering her gaze.

Then, she cupped her hands and scooped up some water—before gently pouring it over her chest.

It wasn’t a forceful splash, but a soft trickle from above.

“I’d hate it… but I want Kento-kun to be happy. And if it’s someone he chooses, then she must be a wonderful person… so I think I’d be okay with it.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai was probably the type of person who believed that as long as the one she loved was happy, it didn’t matter if she wasn’t the one by his side.

Maybe that mindset came from her desire to avoid conflict, but I knew I could never be that detached.

Still—if the one Kento-kun chose in the end was Nadeshiko-senpai, I felt like I would have to accept it.

Because when it came to personality, I couldn’t possibly compare to her.

And besides—

I lowered my gaze.

Floating gently in the bath were two large masses of fat.

Boys tend to prefer them bigger, don’t they…?

“Sophia-chan, where exactly are you looking…?” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai, blushing, covered her chest with her hands.

Even though she had done whatever she wanted with mine, she was embarrassed when it was her turn to be stared at.

“No… I was just thinking that I could never be as mature as you, Nadeshiko-senpai…” (Sophia)

“Um… with the way you’re looking, I’m not sure which kind of ‘mature’ you mean…” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai said with an awkward smile.

If she asked which meaning I intended, well… maybe both.

But since my mother’s chest was even bigger than Nadeshiko-senpai’s, I figured it was still too soon to give up hope.

“I meant in a romantic sense.” (Sophia)

“I see… Well, I think that’s normal. You don’t have to look at love the same way as me, I just don’t want you to lie to yourself and end up suffering because of it.” (Nadeshiko)

Even with just a few words, she seemed to understand exactly what I meant.

She really was sharp—and kind…

Etching her words into my heart, we spent the rest of our time chatting about trivial things.

And then, while we were drying ourselves off in the changing room—

“By the way, Nadeshiko-senpai, why did you choose Seijou? Was it because you liked baseball?” (Sophia)

I decided to ask something that had been on my mind.

With how smart Nadeshiko-senpai is, she could have easily gotten into the top-ranked high school in the prefecture. Even if she chose Seijou, she could have entered the Special Preparatory Course as a scholarship student and had her tuition waived.

The fact that she didn’t take that path made me think she must have come to Seijou to be the baseball team’s manager.

“…I wonder. Maybe I should stop keeping secrets from you, Sophia-chan?” (Nadeshiko)

For a moment, Nadeshiko-senpai froze, placing a hand on her chest, before turning back to me with a smile.

That “to you” meant that she was keeping this secret from everyone else.

“If it’s something you don’t want to talk about, that’s okay.” (Sophia)

“No, that’s not it. I just don’t want to use authority as a shield, so I’ve kept it a secret from everyone. I came to Seijou because… it’s my grandfather’s school.” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh…?” (Sophia)

The revelation was so unexpected that I gasped, staring at Nadeshiko-senpai in shock.

If this was her grandfather’s school, that meant…

“The chairman… is your grandfather…?” (Sophia)

“Yep, that’s right. But keep it a secret, okay?” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai placed a finger in front of her nose and winked playfully.

Her adorable expression almost distracted me, but the shock of learning she was the chairman’s granddaughter was far more overwhelming.

She had never shown any sign of that before…

“But… your surname is different, isn’t it?” (Sophia)

“He’s my maternal grandfather.” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed that Nadeshiko-senpai’s last name was her father’s, not her mother’s all along.

“Since I’m the chairman’s granddaughter, both teachers and students would treat me differently.” (Nadeshiko)

“Not even Kento-kun or the coach knows…?” (Sophia)

“Nope, I haven’t told them. Well, the coach seems to get along well with my grandpa, but I’ve asked my grandpa not to say anything. I want to get along with everyone, but if people knew I was the chairman’s granddaughter, there’d be walls built around me, and some people might try to get close for the wrong reasons, you know?” (Nadeshiko)

I had always thought she was a bit unusual, but this confirmed it.

Most people would want to be in a superior position, to be admired by everyone, but Nadeshiko-senpai hated that kind of thing.

“That’s really impressive…” (Sophia)

“That’s exactly why I don’t want any of that. I just want to be friends with you as a fellow club member, nothing more, nothing less.” (Nadeshiko)

Without warning, Nadeshiko-senpai suddenly moved closer and started squishing my cheeks.

Ever since we bathed together, it felt like the distance between us had shrunk significantly.

“Then… why did you choose to tell me?” (Sophia)

“I said we should be honest with each other, right? It wouldn’t be fair if I kept secrets. Besides, I didn’t think you’d care even if you knew I was the chairman’s granddaughter, and I trusted you not to spread it around. That’s why I told you.” (Nadeshiko)

That was probably not the only reason.

By sharing a secret she hadn’t told anyone else, she was also trying to gain my trust.

She wanted me to feel like I was special to her.

Of course, it wasn’t because she had some hidden agenda—she simply wanted to be closer to me.

And since I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all while talking to her, I was certain that was the truth.

“Thank you… Of course, I won’t tell anyone…” (Sophia)

“Yeah—Ah!” (Nadeshiko)

As she resumed drying herself off, Nadeko-senpai suddenly turned toward me, as if she had just remembered something.

Then, she flashed a bright, dazzling smile.

“I said I just wanted to be your senpai, and that nothing else mattered, but… I also think of you as a little sister, you know?” (Sophia)

Her innocent smile was so pure and radiant that it almost seemed like she was shining—so much so that I found myself mesmerized.

◆

<Kento’s PoV>

“—Nn… Hah…” (?)

In a world of pure white, an oddly sultry voice echoed in my ears.

My hands felt something soft and warm, yet at the same time, my palms detected a firmer, slightly rougher texture.

What is this…?

With that thought lingering in my mind, I slowly opened my heavy eyelids.

“Fuh… nn… ah…” (Kento)

As I opened my eyes, all I could see was a large, raised expanse of fabric.

And my right hand was inside that fabric.

When I pulled my face back slightly, I saw a beautiful black-haired girl with her clothes slightly disheveled—

“What are you doing, Kujouin-san!?” (Kento)

Waking up to find the school’s Madonna sleeping right in front of me shocked me so much that I couldn’t help but raise my voice.

She was slightly sweaty, her cheeks were flushed red, and her breathing was ragged.

The sensation I had just felt in my right hand was unmistakable—

“Nn…?” (Nadeshiko)

It must have been my loud voice.

Kujouin-san slowly opened her sleepy eyes, her hazy gaze settling on me.

She slowly blinked, staring at my face.

She seemed to still be half-asleep.

However, as she continued blinking, her eyes gradually began to focus—

“Fweh!?” (Nadeshiko)

—And the moment she recognized me, her face turned bright red in an instant.

She quickly sat up, her movements abrupt, and opened her mouth in a flustered panic.

“K-K-Kento-kun!? Wh-Wh-Why!? Why are you in Sophia-chan’s bed!?” (Nadeshiko)

“Please calm down…! And lower your voice…! Sophia will hear us…!” (Kento)

If Sophia saw this situation, it would be beyond a simple misunderstanding.

Kujouin-san’s clothes and hair were still disheveled, and at a glance, it would definitely look like we did something last night.

She was supposed to be sleeping in Sophia’s room, so I needed her to get back there before Sophia woke up…!

After my warning, Kujouin-san quickly covered her mouth with both hands.

She still seemed flustered, but at least she was capable of listening.

“This is my room, so you must have sleepily mistaken it for Sophia’s… Anyway, if she sees you here, it’ll turn into a huge mess, so please hurry back.” (Kento)

She had probably gone to the bathroom during the night and, in her half-asleep state, entered my room by mistake.

Since she had mentioned sleeping in the same bed as Sophia, she likely didn’t question the presence of someone beside her.

For someone as composed as her to make such a blunder… This was completely unexpected.

“Y-Yeah, I’ll go back right away… It’s just…” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san hesitated, fidgeting with a strand of her hair, looking oddly unsettled.

“What’s wrong…?” (Kento)

“Um… N-No…! It’s nothing…!” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san looked like she was about to say something, but instead, she placed a hand over her chest as if to cover it and got out of bed.

“Sorry about this…!” (Nadeshiko)

With just that, she quickly padded out of my room.

She had been touching her chest earlier… which probably meant she still felt something from when I accidentally touched her.

“Ugh… Should I try to explain this properly…?” (Kento)

There was a chance she thought I had done something to her while she was sleeping.

If that was the case, it could definitely affect our relationship moving forward.

But at the same time, I might just be overthinking it. Maybe she didn’t want to talk about it at all, even if it was just an accident.

I had almost no experience dealing with situations like this, so I had no idea what the right choice was.

――Later, it turned out that as Kujouin-san was leaving my room, Sophia happened to be returning from the bathroom and saw everything.

Because of that, I ended up having to work really hard alongside Kujouin-san to clear up Sophia’s misunderstanding.

---

Thanks for reading!

I didn’t expect that Nadeshiko would admit her love this early. It looks like she’s already aware of it for a while huh?

I think I’ll pause translation for this series for a while, until I finish the new volume of Toxic Game Streamer. I can’t translate too many things at once, and I’ve been looking forward to doing that series again for a while now.

---

1. None

“—I can’t believe she actually wants to stay over…” (Kento)

After practice on Saturday, I returned home with Sophia, just the two of us, and muttered with a wry smile.

“Well, I was serious when I said it… Did you prefer if she didn’t?” (Sophia)

Perhaps thinking I was against it, Sophia looked up at me anxiously.

That was my fault for wording it that way.

“No, that’s not what I meant. It’s just… Even though there are younger guys in the house, she didn’t hesitate to stay over. I feel like she’s probably the only one who could be that unfazed.” (Kento)

Normally, a girl her age would be more cautious about staying in a house with boys around.

The fact that she wasn’t concerned at all was typical of Kujouin-san, who could stand her ground even against the coach.

Well, considering how naturally airheaded she could be, it was also possible she simply hadn’t considered that.

“She trusts you, Onii-chan. You wouldn’t actually try anything, right?” (Sophia)

Sophia seemed more concerned about the situation than I was, eyeing me suspiciously with a doubtful gaze.

She must know just how beautiful Kujouin-san was, and it made sense that she’d be worried about whether I’d get any weird ideas.

“If I were going to make a move on someone, I would’ve done it with you a long time ago…” (Kento)

“—! W-Well, I guess that’s true…” (Sophia)

Hearing me say that, she inhaled sharply before turning her face away.

She looked slightly flushed, and she fidgeted with her hair in an unsettled manner.

“U-Um, Nadeshiko-senpai will take a while, right?” (Sophia)

“Yeah, she said she’d be going home first, so it should take her at least an hour or two.” (Kento)

Normally, she would have just come home with us if she was planning to stay over after practice. But her popularity in the club was ridiculously high.

Combined with the fact that I would also be at home, if word got out that she was staying over at our place, the club members would make a fuss.

That’s why Kujouin-san hadn’t brought any of her stay-in belongings with her. Instead, she had deliberately gone home first to get her belongings while ensuring that we left at different times.

As a result, tonight’s sleepover was a secret that only the three of us knew.

By the way, the reason I didn’t know exactly when she would arrive was simply because I had no idea where she lived.

“Well, I guess the timing doesn’t really matter. Our parents are on an overnight trip today and tomorrow, so they won’t be home…” (Sophia)

“Ahaha…” (Kento)

Sophia sounded a bit resentful as she said that, and I averted my gaze with a wry smile.

The fact that our parents, who had just gone on their honeymoon recently, were off on another trip probably meant their relationship was going strong.

I could understand why they’d want to go out—having us around meant they couldn’t completely let loose.

Leaving the two of us alone like this was probably a sign that they trusted us, and honestly, it didn’t feel bad.

“If you wanted them to stay home, you could’ve just said so.” (Kento)

“There’s no way I could do that…” (Sophia)

Yeah, both Sophia and I wanted the parent who had raised us alone all this time to fully enjoy their new happiness.

That’s why, when they said they were going on a trip, we couldn’t tell them no—nor did we want to.

“Anyway, I told them about Kujouin-san, so there shouldn’t be any problem, right?” (Kento)

Of course, I couldn’t just let someone stay over without saying anything, so I had properly informed Jessica-san and the others.

Since this was Sophia’s first time bringing a friend—well, a senpai, technically—Jessica-san had looked delighted.

Since Dad was there, she didn’t say it out loud, but watching Jessica-san’s reaction, I thought maybe she secretly wanted to stay as well.

That must have been how surprising it was for Sophia to bring someone over.

Well, I had never invited a friend over either, so I wasn’t really in a position to talk.

By the way, the reason Kujouin-san’s stay was approved so easily was because of her character.

Jessica-san and Dad had met her at the match venue, so they knew she was a well-mannered person.

If it had been anyone else, Jessica-san and Dad probably would have canceled their trip and stayed home.

“I can’t even serve her a decent meal…” (Sophia)

Sophia muttered, still looking a little dissatisfied.

Seeing that, something clicked in my mind.

“…Oh. So that’s what it is. I was wondering why you were in a bad mood, but you’re just nervous about cooking for Kujouin-san, aren’t you?” (Kento)

If Jessica-san had been here, she would have taken the lead in preparing dinner, with Sophia helping out.

But since Jessica-san wasn’t around, Sophia had to take the lead in making dinner herself.

I’ll help out, but since I can’t cook at all, there’s not much I can do to take over for her.

“But I’ve never cooked for anyone other than for our family…” (Sophia)

Sophia pouted slightly, looking sulky.

Somehow, she’s been acting a bit more childish lately.

But since it was cute, there was no problem at all.

“Sophia, your cooking is really good, so don’t worry about it.” (Kento)

“R-Really?” (Sophia)

When I told her that without any flattery, she loosened her lips slightly and started twirling her hair restlessly.

Her tone was also softer and more casual, which probably meant she was happy.

“Yeah, I eat your delicious bento every day, so I can guarantee that.”  (Kento)

“Hehe…♪” (Sophia)

Sophia smiled even more happily.

What is this cute creature?

The more time I spent with her, the more I found myself drawn to her.

But it seemed like she only saw me as her brother, and with the rules of the club, there was nothing I could do to progress our relationship.

“Besides, Kujouin-san is good at cooking too. She’ll probably help out.” (Kento)

During training camps, the managers sometimes prepared meals for us, and they were always well-balanced and delicious. From what I’d heard, Kujouin-san usually took the lead in cooking, so she had to be skilled in the kitchen.

She didn’t talk much about her home life, but from what little I knew, she seemed to come from a wealthy family. Maybe she had been trained in homemaking since she was young.

It was a private school, after all, and there were apparently quite a few students from rich families.

“She’s the kind of person who looks after others, so—” (Sophia)

Sophia was in the middle of speaking when—

The doorbell suddenly rang.

“Nadeshiko-senpai is already here…?” (Sophia)

Sophia looked toward the entrance, then turned to me with a puzzled expression.

“No, that can’t be. We just got home a moment ago.” (Kento)

We had spent some time talking at the entrance, but it hadn’t been long since we arrived.

It was too soon for Kujouin-san to be back after having gone home once, so it was probably just a salesperson or something.

“I’ll go answer the door. You should go change, Sophia.” (Kento)

Whether it was a salesperson or a delivery, I could handle it alone, so I told her to head to her room.

“Okay…” (Sophia)

Sophia nodded and started toward her room, but for some reason, she suddenly stopped in her tracks.

Then, she looked at me with a worried expression.

“You don’t have to look so scared. This isn’t some manga—it’s not like I’ll get stabbed the moment I open the door.” (Kento)

I smiled to reassure my cute, anxious little sister.

Sophia gave me a wry smile in response.

“I didn’t say anything like that.” (Sophia)

“Your face did.” (Kento)

She probably didn’t actually think I’d get stabbed, but I could tell she found the sudden visitor unsettling.

Well, it wasn’t unreasonable to be suspicious when someone showed up at this hour.

As we talked, the intercom rang again.

If it was just a salesperson, I could ignore it and let them leave. But if it was a delivery, it would be rude to make them come all this way for nothing.

“If you’re scared, like I said, just go back to your room.” (Kento)

“I’m not scared… Besides, I need to be ready to call the police if something happens…” (Sophia)

What exactly was she so worried about?

I guess Sophia was a bit timid and easily frightened at heart.

That being said, considering she was at high risk of being targeted by a stalker, maybe it was better for her to be cautious and overly worried.

“Yes, who is it?” (Kento)

Since Sophia had no intention of going back to her room, I put on my shoes and opened the door.

And then—

“G-Good evening…!” (?)

—Standing there was a small-framed boy, who looked like a middle schooler, bowing his head energetically.

He seemed polite enough, but… who was he?

“Um… and you are?” (Kento)

There was a chance he was a junior from middle school or high school, but I didn’t recognize him, so I asked.

Or rather, maybe he wasn’t here for me but for Sophia instead.

“My name is Haimiya Riku! I came because I wanted to speak with Shirakawa-san…!” (Riku)

Haimiya-kun introduced himself in a bright and enthusiastic voice.

It was a name I didn’t recognize, but at the very least, he didn’t seem like a bad kid.

“Sophia, he says he wants to talk to you…” (Kento)

Since it seemed like he had business with her, I called out to Sophia.

“No.” (Sophia)

However, whether out of caution toward the unfamiliar boy or simply because she didn’t want to deal with him, Sophia immediately turned away.

She just couldn’t help but put on a mask when dealing with strangers.

“Sorry, would it be alright if I asked what this is about?” (Kento)

I figured it would be awkward if it was a confession, but since Sophia had no intention of engaging, I decided to ask on her behalf.

If he had been some flashy, frivolous guy or someone blatantly rude, I would have sent him away. But since he had introduced himself so politely, I couldn’t just brush him off.

“Ah, no…! The one I want to talk to is Shirakawa-san…!” (Riku)

“Hmm?” (Kento)

Shirakawa-san—so that meant Sophia, or… wait, was he talking about me?

Just as I reached that conclusion, Haimiya-kun once again bowed his head energetically.

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to intrude while you’re with your girlfriend!” (Riku)

“G-G-Girlfriend!?” (Sophia)

Sophia reacted sharply to Haimiya-kun’s words, letting out a flustered voice.

Even though she seemed to be flustered, the reason she didn’t switch to English was probably because she just repeated the words she heard.

Now I understood why Haimiya-kun had only used my last name. He probably didn’t know I have a sister with the same last name now.

From his earlier comment, it seemed like he had mistaken Sophia for my girlfriend.

“Ah, I guess it’s easy to misunderstand. That girl is actually my imouto.” (Kento)

“Eh, your imouto…?” (Riku)

Haimiya-kun blinked in surprise and glanced at Sophia.

Given that not just our facial features but also our hair, eye color, and even skin tone were different, it was natural for him to find it odd.

But there was no need to go out of my way to explain that to a stranger.

“Don’t you think we would be a pair?” (Kento)

Sophia was the most beautiful girl in school, while I wasn’t even someone who got talked about much in that regard.

No matter how you looked at it, we didn’t seem like a couple.

“Actually, I thought you suited each other…” (Riku)

But Haimiya-kun really did seem like a good kid—he was clearly being considerate.

He was probably the type to be doted on by older people.

“Onii-chan, isn’t it rude to keep talking at the entrance? Since he has something to say, why don’t you invite him in?” (Sophia)

Just moments ago, Sophia had been keeping her distance with a cold, almost disdainful expression, yet now she suddenly came up beside me and suggested letting Haimiya-kun inside.

Her attitude had taken a complete 180, leaving Haimiya-kun visibly surprised.

To be honest, I was just as shocked. I never expected Sophia to not only allow him inside but even take the initiative to invite him in.

“Are you sure about this?” (Kento)

“Whether I am or not, standing here talking is exhausting, isn’t it? I’ll make some tea, so go have your conversation in the living room.” (Sophia)

What in the world had gotten to her…?

The irritation from before had completely vanished, and now she almost seemed to be in a good mood. Seriously, what was going on…?

“Well, if Sophia’s fine with it… Haimiya-kun, is it okay if we talk inside?” (Kento)

Sophia’s sudden change in attitude was puzzling, but as she said, we couldn’t just keep standing around talking at the entrance.

That said, sending him away felt a bit cruel, so I decided to bring him to the living room.

“Yes, I’d be happy to…!” (Riku)

Haimiya-kun carefully took off his shoes, neatly arranging them before following behind me.

He seemed well-mannered.

“That’s impressive. Not many people bother to line up their shoes properly.” (Kento)

Even among middle schoolers, there were plenty who just left their shoes lying around in a mess.

I didn’t dislike kids who knew how to behave properly.

“Yes, my older sister is really strict about these things.” (Riku)

“Oh? Sounds like a responsible older sister.” (Kento)

“Yes, she’s someone I’m really proud of. She can be strict, but she’s kind, reliable… and she works hard for my sake…” (Riku)

He must really love his sister.

Since he could proudly talk about his sister even to someone he had just met, I figured she must be a well-mannered and dependable person too.

“……….” (Sophia)

As I poured the tea Sophia made into the cups, I suddenly noticed Sophia glancing over at us restlessly.

She looked like she had something to say—or rather, like she was waiting for something to be said.

Ah, I see.

“You’re lucky to have such a wonderful sister. I’m also proud of my sister—she’s great at cooking and excels in her studies.” (Kento)

Realizing what Sophia was expecting, I spoke about her good points, even though it felt a little embarrassing.

Honestly, what am I even doing, bragging about my sister to someone I just met? But since Haimiya-kun started it, I figured it wouldn’t seem weird.

“…♪” (Sophia)

And just as I suspected, I heard Sophia humming to herself.

Looks like she was in a good mood now.

“You two seem very close.” (Riku)

Noticing Sophia’s reaction, Haimiya-kun smiled at me.

Even though I was getting along with someone as stunning as Sophia, he didn’t seem jealous or envious, which really made me think he was a good kid.

He must have been raised well.

“We’re siblings, after all. So, what was it that you wanted to talk about?” (Kento)

If we kept chatting, Kujouin-san might show up, so I decided to steer the conversation toward the main topic.

At that, Haimiya-kun tensed up, just like he had when he first arrived.

“Um… I…” (Riku)

He clenched his fists around his pants, as if trying to squeeze the words out of himself.

I figured pressing him would be a bit cruel, so I stayed quiet and waited for him to find the words on his own.

Taking a deep breath as if steeling himself, he finally spoke.

“I want to be like Shirakawa-san…! How can I be like you…!?” (Riku)

It was such an unexpected statement that Sophia, who had been placing cups in front of us, accidentally set one down with too much force, causing water to spill over the table.

“Ah…! I need to clean this up…!” (Sophia)

As she hurried off to grab a towel, I turned back to Haimiya-kun and slowly opened my mouth.

“Sorry, but… what do you mean by that?” (Kento)

I couldn’t quite grasp what he was trying to say, so I asked him to clarify.

“Actually, I also play baseball… and last year, I saw the game you played with Kurogane-san…” (Sophia)

Apparently, he had watched a match that I would have preferred to stay unseen by others.

Not that it really mattered, but still.

“Ah, I see… and?” (Kento)

Still not fully understanding his point, I urged him to continue.

“Honestly, back then, I felt a sense of connection with you, Shirakawa-san…” (Riku)

A sense of connection?

I wondered what he meant, but since he seemed intent on continuing, I stayed quiet and listened.

“But now, you’re playing in official matches at a top-tier school, making headlines in newspapers and appearing on the news…! Please tell me! How did you become such an incredible player in just one year…!?” (Riku)

I see… So basically, he must have read about me somewhere and, believing that we were once similar, became curious about the secret behind my progress.

“Hmm… First, what’s your position?” (Kento)

I knew nothing about him.

He definitely seemed motivated, and his determination was clear. But I had never heard his name before.

Well, considering he saw himself in me from a year ago, I could more or less guess his skill level.

“I’m a pitcher…!” (Riku)

“…I see.” (Kento)

Ahh…

I let out a small sigh, unsure whether to be impressed or exasperated.

Meanwhile, Sophia had already finished wiping the table and was still sneaking glances at me, as if urging me to say something.

Yeah, yeah, I get it.

“Alright, first of all, let me be clear—I’m a catcher, not a pitcher. That means I can give you advice, but I’m not exactly the best person to ask if you’re looking for firsthand experience.” (Kento)

“Of course! But I still think you can help me…!” (Riku)

Seriously, his enthusiasm was almost blinding.

I scratched the back of my head, trying to figure out how to handle this.

“Well… if it’s about improving as a pitcher, I can at least tell you what I’ve seen from the mound. But, you know, there’s no shortcut to getting better. It’s all about the work you put in.” (Kento)

I wasn’t trying to sound preachy, but it was the truth.

“Yes! I’m prepared to do whatever it takes!” (Riku)

Man, this kid… He really reminded me of a younger version of myself.

I exchanged a brief glance with Sophia, who let out a small sigh but didn’t say anything.

This was going to be a long conversation.

“I want to become a player who can shine as a pitcher, regardless of whether it’s a top-tier school or not…! I want to go pro…!” (Riku)

With a passionate and earnest expression, Haimiya-kun explained his feelings.

Sophia, after looking at him as if she were pitying him, glanced at me with a sad expression.

She probably thought he was dreaming too much and wasn’t seeing reality.

“First, I want to make sure there’s no misunderstanding… I’ve only just started, and I don’t even know if I can make it to the pros myself. So, I don’t have the answer to the question of what the right path is.” (Kento)

I made sure to clarify that upfront.

“But, I did hit three home runs in one game…!” (Riku)

“Well, that was a bit of a special case… But, while I don’t know about your record, if you really want to go pro, I do think you should aim for a top-tier or prestigious school. The training facilities, the coaches, and the level of teammates are all on a completely different level. It’s a given, but if you want to improve, you’ll learn faster in a better environment.” (Kento)

That wasn’t necessarily the case every time.

Compatibility with coaches and teammates also played a role.

More than anything, it depended on one’s own motivation and talent, so simply being in a good environment didn’t automatically guarantee results.

The opposite was also true.

But in the end, what was the right choice? You wouldn’t know until you actually joined.

That said, once you were in, there was hardly any chance to start over.

In that case, it was better to choose the option with the higher probability of success—and which one that was should be obvious.

“If you dedicate yourself for three years at a top-tier school, even without achievements now, there’s a good chance you’ll improve significantly—” (Kento)

“I’m sorry… but I can’t…” (Riku)

As we talked, Haimiya-kun denied it with a pained expression.

Seeing him like that, I started to get a sense of the situation.

“Is it a money problem?” (Kento)

“Yes…” (Riku)

Getting into a top-tier school without any achievements requires paying a high tuition fee.

On top of that, there are costs for equipment, club fees, and travel expenses, making it something that not just anyone can afford.

Of course, there’s always the option of going to a strong public school—but in the end, private schools tend to have better facilities, coaches, and school support.

In fact, in our prefecture, for the past ten-plus years, the schools that have made it to Koshien every year have all been private.

“There are scholarships available, and if you really want to go, shouldn’t you try convincing your parents?” (Sophia)

Perhaps she had been thinking about something.

Sophia, who had been quietly observing until now, sat next to me and spoke to Haimiya-kun.

However—

“It’s impossible… I’d love to go to Seijou if I could… but I don’t want to put any more burden on my sister…” (Riku)

Sister…?

Why was he talking about his sister when we were discussing his parents?

That thought crossed my mind, but I quickly realized a possible reason.

So, before Sophia, who looked dissatisfied, could speak, I held up my hand to stop her.

“What…?” (Sophia)

“Well, right now, this is a conversation between me and Haimiya-kun.” (Kento)

Sophia probably wanted to encourage him, which was why she had something to say.

But no matter how much someone wishes for something, there are things in this world that simply can’t come true.

“It’s not unheard of for public schools to defeat private ones, and there are plenty of strong teams out there. What’s important is figuring out what you need to do and what’s necessary for your growth. Talk things through properly with your coach, stay committed, and don’t neglect your efforts. If you do that, you might just reach the level you’re aiming for.” (Kento)

I stopped focusing on the idea of strong schools and instead gave him the best advice I could.

The rest was up to him.

“You’re right… Thank you. I’ll do my best at the school I get into.” (Riku)

Haimiya-kun smiled at me.

Most likely, the answer he was looking for wasn’t this.

If this level of advice was all he wanted, he wouldn’t have gone out of his way to come to me.

“By the way, why do you want to go pro?” (Kento)

When I asked that, Sophia shot me a look like she wanted to say something.

Isn’t it obvious why someone would want to go pro?

Her expression made it clear that’s what she was thinking.

But I had a feeling this was different from what she assumed.

“I want to make things easier for my sister… I’ve been a huge burden on her ever since I was little… The only way I can repay her is by going pro and supporting her for the rest of her life…” (Riku)

“What kind of—” (Sophia)

“I see. That’s a great dream.” (Kento)

I covered Sophia’s mouth before she could finish and smiled at Haimiya-kun.

His eyes widened in surprise.

“Is it really that great…?” (Riku)

“Wanting to make things easier for your sister—there’s no way that’s anything but admirable.” (Kento)

Saying that, I got up from my seat.

“Alright, your sister’s probably starting to worry, so you should head home.” (Kento)

To be honest, I was curious to hear more, but Sophia looked like she was at her limit. Before she exploded, I figured I should get him out of here.

“A-Ah… Sorry for barging in like this and making you listen to all of this…” (Riku)

Haimiya-kun bowed repeatedly, looking apologetic.

He was probably very aware of Sophia’s worsening mood beside me.

“It’s fine. And one last thing—hard work doesn’t always pay off, but if you stop putting in the effort, that’s where everything ends. Believe in yourself and keep pushing forward.” (Kento)

With a grin, I pressed my right thumb against my left chest and said those words.

“Ah… y-yes! Thank you so much!” (Riku)

After hearing my advice, Haimiya-kun bowed deeply once again.

If this helped ease even a little of his hesitation, then that was enough.

He continued bowing repeatedly as he left—but…

“I have a lot of things I want to say…” (Sophia)

Sophia, who had been bottling up her frustration throughout the conversation, was now looking at me like she was ready to unload it.

Kujouin-san, hurry up and get here already…

“Haimiya-kun’s life is his own. We’re just outsiders—no, we only met him today. It’s not our place to interfere.” (Kento)

“But he’s being way too naive…! A kid who can’t even say what he wants to his own family isn’t going to make it…! And aiming to go pro just for the money—!” (Sophia)

“You shouldn’t jump to conclusions based on assumptions.” (Kento)

Seeing how heated Sophia was, I reached out to pat her head, hoping to calm her down.

She might get mad at me, but nevertheless, I decided to calm her down by giving her the head pats she loves.

“…It tickles…” (Sophia)

As soon as I started patting her head, Sophia immediately quieted down.

She grumbled about it, but she wasn’t making any effort to escape.

Her words aside, her body was being far too honest, and I couldn’t help but smile.

“Haimiya-kun is probably struggling and doing his best with what he can do right now. I think pushing him any further would only pressure him more.” (Kento)

“Why do you think that…?” (Sophia)

“Well… just a hunch…” (Kento)

The truth was, I had a pretty good idea.

There had been enough hints in what he said.

But since I had no solid proof, and it was a sensitive topic, it didn’t feel right for me to say anything as an outsider.

“You’re really taking his side… based just on a hunch? Even though you just met him…” (Sophia)

“Haha… well, he seemed like a sincere and good kid.” (Kento)

“Your tone was much softer than usual too, Onii-chan…” (Sophia)

“That’s just because he’s younger. If I talked like I normally do, I might have come off as intimidating.” (Kento)

Even if there’s only a one-year age difference between a high schooler and a middle schooler, the older one can sometimes feel much bigger.

On top of that, he had come to a stranger’s house. If I had spoken coldly or unapproachably, he probably wouldn’t have been able to say what he wanted.

That’s why I had consciously chosen a gentler way of speaking.

“Hmm… well, I’ll just say this.” (Sophia)

“What?” (Kento)

“No matter how badly someone wants to talk, it’s pretty crazy to track down your house and just show up unannounced. Be careful, okay?” (Sophia)

“Yeah… there’s no excuse for that…” (Kento)

Sophia was right—showing up at someone’s house unannounced was a bit much.

He was probably that desperate…

That said, Sophia had been handling it pretty well at first. Whatever he said in the latter half of the conversation must have really set her off.

From her perspective, as someone who pushes herself to the limit every day, his words probably sounded like he was making excuses.

Still—there was one thing that stood out to me.

Haimiya-kun didn’t seem very confident, yet he clearly stated he wanted to go pro. And while he acknowledged his lack of achievements, he never once questioned his own ability.

That meant his lack of accomplishments was real—but could it be that he actually had confidence in his skills?

It could just be baseless optimism, but considering his personality, it was worth looking into.

Maybe I should check with the coach…

“—The two of you sure look comfy.” (?)

“—!?” (Kento & Sophia)

While I was lost in thought, absentmindedly stroking Sophia’s head, Kujouin-san’s voice suddenly broke the silence.

When I turned my gaze toward her, I saw that at some point, she had appeared in front of the house, staring at us intently.

“This isn’t what it looks like…!” (Kento)

”Th-Th-That’s right! It’s not what you think it is!” (Sophia)

As I hastily tried to explain, Sophia panicked and started blurting things out in English.

Kujouin-san was most likely skilled in English as well, so she might understand what Sophia was saying.

I usually had no clue what she was saying when she switched to English, but I did know that when she panicked, she had a tendency to let things slip.

So, I gave Sophia a firm pat on the back.

“Ah…” (Kento)

That seemed to snap her back to her senses. She blinked, suddenly looking startled.

Looks like we are in the clear.

“Ahaha… You don’t have to panic so much.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san smiled wryly as she looked at Sophia.

But she didn’t seem intent on pushing the issue further. Instead, she turned to me with an apologetic expression.

“More importantly, why are you two outside? Were you waiting for me?” (Nadeshiko)

“No, actually—” (Kento)

Since I wanted to ask for Kujouin-san’s help, I told her about Haimiya-kun’s visit earlier.

Of course, I didn’t mention any of my own speculations.

“…I can’t believe there are kids who show up at people’s houses these days.” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed like even she hadn’t experienced something like this before. She listened intently and then gave a troubled smile.

“His match data, huh… If he’s been making it through tournaments, it shouldn’t be too hard, but…” (Nadeshiko)

As expected, it seemed like my request—asking her to obtain Haimiya-kun’s match data—wouldn’t be easy.

I had already expected that possibility, so it couldn’t be helped.

“No, I’m sorry for asking too much. It was just a thought—please forget about it.” (Kento)

With the China Tournament coming up, I couldn’t put unnecessary pressure on Kujouin-san.

I was curious about Haimiya-kun, but as a team, the China Tournament was overwhelmingly more important.

“Onii-chan, what are you thinking…?” (Sophia)

Sophia seemed to have sensed something and was looking at me suspiciously.

So she noticed, huh…

“No, don’t worry about it. It probably won’t happen anyway.” (Kento)

If what I was thinking now actually came to fruition, it would be nothing short of a miracle.

Honestly, I was clinging to the possibility because of my own wishful thinking.

The truth was, our team was facing a significant challenge—pitcher shortage.

Of course, it wasn’t just a simple matter of not having enough pitchers.

The ace was Shuuto, but we had reliable upperclassmen who could serve as the second, third, and fourth pitchers.

In fact, against mid-tier or lower-ranked opponents, even our second-string pitchers were more than capable of holding them down.

Even against strong teams, if I did my best with my lead, we could probably keep them within two or three runs.

However—when it came to powerhouse schools that competed for the national championship every year, I thought it would be extremely difficult without Shuuto.

There was a high possibility that we’d get hit hard, and at the very least, we would have to be prepared for a slugfest.

That meant that in order to win, we’d either have to put a heavy burden on Shuuto or commit to an all-out battle of runs—but if we were serious about winning the national championship, that approach wasn’t realistic.

That’s why I wanted a second pitcher at a level who could stand alongside Shuuto.

Just like how Shuuto had joined our team this year, I had been hoping that another super rookie would come next year as well… and that’s probably why I found myself looking for that potential in Haimiya-kun.

“…………” (Nadeshiko)

Hearing that Haimiya-kun was a pitcher, Kujouin-san must have realized what I was thinking.

She was trying not to show it on her face, but her eyes caught me with a look of dissatisfaction.

She was a kind person—but no, precisely because she was kind, she must have had her own thoughts on the matter.

I had a general idea of how she felt, so I figured it was best to stop talking about Haimiya-kun any further.

If she were to become an enemy, she’d be more troublesome than Sophia.

“We ended up talking for quite a while in front of the door. Please, come inside.” (Kento)

To change the atmosphere, I smiled and gestured for Kujouin-san to enter.

In response, she returned a smile.

“Yeah, you’re right. Well then, excuse me.” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed like she switched gears as I had hoped, and Kujouin-san followed me into the house.

However—

“A player of Kurogane-kun’s caliber joining our team was already a miracle, you know? Miracles don’t happen twice.” (Nadeshiko)

As she stepped up from the entrance after taking off her shoes, she whispered quietly into my ear.

She was probably being considerate so that Sophia wouldn’t hear, but doing something like this only made it seem like she was upset.

After that, though, there wasn’t any awkwardness between me and Kujouin-san. She acted just as she always did.

◆

<Sophia’s PoV>

“Nadeshiko-senpai, the bath is ready. Please go ahead.” (Sophia)

When the sound indicating the bath had filled played in the living room, I politely called out to Nadeshiko-senpai, who was sitting elegantly beside me watching TV.

By the way, Kento-kun had gone for self-training, so the only ones left in the house were me and Nadeshiko-senpai.

Even though she was here, he still stuck to his usual routine.

If he were a normal guy, he’d probably try to stay around since the school’s madonna was visiting his house.

“Thank you. Since we have the chance, why don’t we take a bath together?” (Nadeshiko)

As I was thinking about Kento-kun, Nadeshiko-senpai invited me with her usual radiant smile.

I think this is the first time someone has tried to close the distance with me this much.

Even Kento-kun has never suggested taking a bath together.

…No, well.

Of course, he wouldn’t.

“I’m not used to this, so…” (Sophia)

“Yes, that’s why you need experience.” (Nadeshiko)

Suddenly, Nadeshiko-senpai grabbed my hand.

It felt like she was making it clear that she wouldn’t let me escape.

“Eh!?” (Sophia)

“Come on, come on, let’s go.” (Nadeshiko)

Without paying any attention to my surprise, Nadeshiko-senpai pulled my arm, trying to take me to the dressing room.

Such a forceful approach was incredibly rare from her.

“Um, aren’t you being a little too pushy…?” (Sophia)

Between the sleepover and this, I couldn’t keep up with her unusually aggressive approach. As I watched her start taking off her clothes, I couldn’t help but ask.

“Fufu, surprised? Well, I guess that’s understandable.” (Nadeshiko)

However, she didn’t seem bothered at all and continued undressing happily, looking entirely at ease, probably because we were both girls.

“What exactly are you planning…?” (Sophia)

“I’m not plotting anything so serious that you’d need to be on guard. I just want to get along with you, Sophia-chan. If I don’t push a little, you’ll just run away, won’t you?” (Nadeshiko)

“Ugh…” (Sophia)

She hit the nail on the head.

She must have figured it out from the way I acted when we first started having lunch together.

“Could it be… you’re taking a page out of Onii-chan’s book to be forceful?” (Sophia)

“You caught on quick! The only person who’s managed to get close to you is Kento-kun, so I figured he’d be the best example to follow—well, that was my thought process, at least.” (Nadeshiko)

Just as I suspected.

She probably said “you caught on quick” because Kento-kun himself doesn’t actually act this forcefully very often.

But when he decides something needs to be done, he will drag me along without hesitation and even resort to drastic measures.

In fact, he once stood in front of my room for hours, and when it came to lunch, he made me start eating with Nadeshiko-senpai to improve my communication skills.

Nadeshiko-senpai understood this side of Kento-kun, and since I obediently went along with it when he was forceful, she must have thought she should do the same.

Kento-kun… I’m going to hold a grudge over this.

“Come on, Sophia-chan, you need to undress too. Oh! Should I help you take it off?” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh!? N-No, I can do it myself! I’ll take it off myself!” (Sophia)

As Nadeshiko-senpai reached out toward me, I hastily started taking off my clothes.

I had always thought this about her—she was very caring, but at the same time, she could be a bit overprotective.

She just had that nurturing nature about her.

That being said, being undressed like a child would be way too embarrassing.

“Fufu, Sophia-chan, you’re panicking too much.” (Nadeshiko)

“That’s because Nadeshiko-senpai is being too forceful… Why do you care so much about me…?” (Sophia)

After taking everything off, I hid my important parts with my hands and asked her.

She pressed her index finger to her lips, muttering “Hmm~” in thought, before slowly opening her mouth.

“Because Sophia-chan is cute, and you feel like a little sister to me. That makes me want to take care of you.” (Nadeshiko)

Like a little sister… Was that because of Kento-kun?

That thought crossed my mind, but I still couldn’t bring myself to step any further into that topic.

There was also a high possibility that she simply saw me as a little sister, nothing more…

“Come on, come on, you’ll catch a cold! Let’s wash up quickly and get in the bath.” (Nadeshiko)

With Nadeshiko-senpai urging me, I was led into the bathroom.

“Sit down, Sophia-chan. Let’s wash each other.” (Nadeshiko)

“T-That’s too embarrassing…!” (Sophia)

Even if she saw me as a little sister, wasn’t she getting a bit too close!?

I really wanted to say that, because Nadeshiko-senpai was being way too pushy.

But with her warm personality and the kind of beauty that could make anyone stop and stare, I couldn’t bring myself to dislike it.

“Don’t be shy.” (Nadeshiko)

“Ehh…!?” (Sophia)

I tried to resist a little, but it was pointless—before I knew it, I had been seated on the bath chair.

Ugh… she’s really too forceful…

And this is all because of Kento-kun, who put weird ideas into Nadeshiko-senpai’s head…

As I thought about that, I quietly let her wash my hair.

“—Alright, next is your body.” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh? You’re not using a towel…?” (Sophia)

Seeing that Nadeshiko-senpai didn’t reach for a towel and instead rubbed liquid soap onto her hands, I hesitantly asked.

“Yeah, this is a rare opportunity, after all.” (Nadeshiko)

What kind of opportunity is this!?

As I mentally screamed in protest, Nadeshiko-senpai’s hands reached for my neck.

“Hyah!? T-That tickles…!” (Sophia)

“Just bear with it for a bit. But wow… your skin is so smooth and soft…” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai ran her hands over my body, speaking enviously.

Even though she had smooth and delicate skin too…

“—Hah… nn… u-um, isn’t it over yet…?” (Sophia)

“Huh? But I’ve only just finished your back?” (Nadeshiko)

When I asked her to stop quickly, she gave me a puzzled look through the mirror.

Even if she said that, it was incredibly ticklish, so I couldn’t help it.

I felt embarrassed that my voice might escape, and I really wanted this to be over soon.

I never knew being washed by someone else could be this ticklish.

“I’ll move to the front now.” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh, wait— nnngh!?” (Sophia)

The moment Senpai’s hand touched my two protrusions, a jolt like electricity ran through me, and I hastily covered my mouth with my hand.

“Wow, your body jumped so much just now… I was surprised. It’s a strong sensation, but try to bear with it, okay?” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai spoke gently while carefully washing, repeatedly rubbing in circular motions.

I could faintly hear her humming.

“Hah… hah… u-um, you’re doing this on purpose, aren’t you…!?” (Sophia)

“It’s an important area, so I have to wash it properly, right? Okay, moving lower now.” (Nadeshiko)

As I let out a voice, Nadeshiko-senpai responded in a cheerful tone and, just as she said, slid her hand downward.

Of course, during that time, I was overwhelmed by an unbearable ticklish sensation.

I figured it out…!

I had been fooled by her usual graceful and refined demeanor, but she was secretly an S…!

Seeing Nadeshiko-senpai in such a good mood, I couldn’t help but think that.

She was probably a very kind person normally, but once her switch was flipped, she became like this.

In other words, my reactions must have unknowingly triggered that switch.

And so, I continued to be washed thoroughly—by the time it was over, I was completely exhausted.

---

Thanks for reading!

What was all that from Nadeshiko…? Nothing she did here was in character. Alright, I’m gonna rant for a bit. 

She wants to get along with Sophia, and the best method she came up with was… touching her body in the shower…? I know that it’s a common trope for girls to bond over showering together, but Sophia was clearly uncomfortable with the whole thing, and Nadeshiko knows this but still decides to go one step further and touch her body all-around.

Now, correct me if I’m wrong since I don’t remember every event that happened, but MC wasn’t really that pushy of a person. I remember translating multiple times where the MC knows Sophia is hiding her true thoughts and yet he never highlights it out of consideration for her. The times when MC was pushy were mainly because he wanted to help her, not to get along with her.

Something just doesn’t seem right with how Nadeshiko acted here, so I’m just gonna pretend it never happened.

P.S. I completely forgot to upload this last week.

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1. None

The next day—

“O-Onii-chan, here’s your bento…” (Sophia)

—It seemed that yesterday hadn’t been a dream after all. As soon as I stepped into the living room, Sophia handed me a bento box while calling me “Onii-chan”.

She still seemed embarrassed as her face flushed bright red.

But more than that, what caught my attention was—

“…………” (Jessica)

Jessica-san, who had probably been making breakfast and the bento with Sophia, stood there in shock, still holding a pair of cooking chopsticks.

Apparently, Sophia calling me “Onii-chan” had been a huge surprise to her.

No, I totally get how she feels.

“W-What is it…?” (Sophia)

Noticing that her mother was staring at her intently, Sophia turned to Jessica-san with a defiant expression, her face still red.

The moment she did, Jessica-san’s lips curled into a wide grin as she leaned in to peer at Sophia’s face.

“Oh my, so you’ve decided to call Kento-kun ‘Onii-chan’ now?” (Jessica)

“~~~~~~! T-That has nothing to do with you, Mom!” (Sophia)

Realizing that her mother was teasing her, Sophia began to get angry, speaking in English.

“We’re family, so of course it concerns me. Oh my, so you’ve really decided to call him Onii-chan?” (Jessica)

Unlike me, Jessica-san, who was fluent in English, began to respond in English.

She was usually a kind older sister-like figure to me, but she could be strict and even a bit mean to her daughter. It was clear that she was teasing her on purpose.

I had been completely sidelined from the conversation, but I decided to stay out of it. The last thing I wanted was for Sophia to take out her frustration on me in English.

“We’re siblings, so this is normal…!” (Sophia)

“Mm-hmm, that’s right~” (Jessica)

Jessica-san nodded repeatedly with a warm, affectionate smile.

Her attitude was as if she were dealing with a small child, and I could tell that it made Sophia’s blood boil.

“Ugh, that smug smile… It feels like you’re making fun of me…!” (Sophia)

“That’s rude, Sophia. By the way, why did you decide to call him ‘Onii-chan’?” (Jessica)

“It’s got nothing to do with Mom…!” (Sophia)

I couldn’t quite catch everything they were saying, but from their expressions and body language, I could more or less guess what was going on.

Sophia probably didn’t want Jessica-san prying into the whole “Onii-chan” thing.

But Jessica-san seemed to be deliberately pushing that button.

Naturally, that would make Sophia flustered and defensive—though it also looked like she was getting more and more worked up.

“If you suddenly start calling him ‘Onii-chan,’ of course I’d be curious. I won’t tell anyone, so just let me know.” (Jessica)

“Even if you don’t tell anyone, you’ll still tease me…! I’m not saying anything, no way…!” (Sophia)

Sophia tried to argue back as best as she could, then quickly hid behind my back, hiding herself.

“Sophia…?” (Kento)

“Ken—Onii-chan, Mom is being mean, so get mad at her…!” (Sophia)

It seemed she had decided she couldn’t win on her own and was now trying to use me—someone Jessica-san wouldn’t go too hard on—as her shield.

Even though she was flustered, she was surprisingly capable of making a rational decision in situations like this.

Well, from my perspective, suddenly being dragged into this, all I could think was, Seriously…?

“Um, Jessica-san. It seems like Sophia doesn’t want to talk about this, so could you let it go…?” (Kento)

There was no way I could actually get mad at her, so I tried to ask her to stop in a roundabout way.

“Sorry, I thought it was kind of amu—cute, so I couldn’t help but ask.” (Jessica)

Jessica-san placed a hand on her cheek and apologized with an amused, slightly troubled smile.

However, I didn’t miss what she almost said.

Just now… she almost said amusing didn’t she…?

Jessica-san was totally just messing with her daughter.

“Muu…” (Sophia)

Thanks to that, Sophia was now pouting behind my back, her cheeks puffed out in frustration.

Sophia pouting like a little kid was cute, but if this bad mood carried over into the club activities, it’d be a problem, so it seemed like I needed to cheer her up on the way to school.

After finishing breakfast and getting ready, we grabbed our school bags and stepped outside—

“Mom is so mean…!” (Sophia)

Apparently, Sophia was still holding a grudge over being teased about how she called me.

“I didn’t expect Jessica-san to be the one to tease you…” (Kento)

I had let my guard down, thinking that the teasing would only start when we’re together at school. I didn’t expect that we would be ambushed before even reaching school.

Now that I think about it, Jessica-san had a surprisingly playful side. If her daughter suddenly started calling her stepbrother “Onii-chan”, it was only natural that she’d want to tease her about it.

After all, to anyone watching, it just looked like we had grown closer as siblings.

“Mom has such a childish side to her…” (Sophia)

“Ahaha…” (Kento)

I let out a dry laugh without thinking.

Despite Sophia’s usual cool demeanor, she had a childish side too, so she probably inherited that from her mother.

Personally, even if Jessica-san was like that, she was approachable, so it didn’t bother me at all.

As for Sophia, well, she was just plain cute.

“Speaking of which, the club members probably won’t tease you about it, but you should watch out for the coach. That guy loves messing with people over stuff like this.” (Kento)

“Ahh… yeah, I can see that happening…” (Sophia)

It seemed like it wasn’t hard for Sophia to imagine it happening, as she nodded reluctantly.

“Well, that said, the coach is actually pretty considerate. If he knows that you don’t like that kind of thing, he probably won’t do it.” (Kento)

And he probably already understood.

Since the coach was in a position to organize the team, give directions, and assign members appropriately, he paid close attention to the club members and knew them well.

Sophia was the type whose dislike for such things was obvious, so chances were, the coach wouldn’t push it too far.

After all, if someone genuinely disliked it, it would turn into actual harassment.

That ability to recognize those boundaries was likely one of the reasons the coach was so well-respected by the club members.

In fact, I’d never seen the coach tease someone like Shuuto either.

“—And if they did something I disliked, Mom would get mad at them too.” (Sophia)

As I was lost in thought, I thought I heard Sophia mutter something under her breath.

It sounded like English, so it probably wasn’t directed at me.

I was curious, but since it seemed like she was just talking to herself, I decided to pretend I didn’t hear it.

“By the way, after you submitted your club application, you went to thank the coach, right? Did he say anything to you?” (Kento)

It had been about a week since then, but since Sophia had said she’d go alone, I didn’t know what kind of conversation took place.

Did she just say thank you and leave, or did they chat for a bit?

“…Nothing in particular. He just told me to do my best as part of the team, something like that.” (Sophia)

“…I see. Well, since you hadn’t really talked to him before, I guess that makes sense.” (Kento)

At that moment, I realized—Sophia had lied.

There had been a strange pause before she answered.

If nothing had really been said, she could have responded without hesitation.

The fact that she didn’t meant there was something on her mind—something she found difficult to tell me.

And knowing the coach’s personality, I couldn’t imagine them not making small talk.

If they were meeting someone for the first time or barely knew them, they would have tried to strike up a conversation to get to know the person better.

But I didn’t press Sophia on it. If she had decided not to talk about it, then asking would just be tactless.

Besides, I trusted that the coach wouldn’t say anything to hurt or pressure her. That trust meant I didn’t need to force the truth out of her.

If Sophia ever felt like talking about it, she would tell me when she was ready.

With that, we shifted to lighthearted chatter as we made our way to school.

And when we arrived—

“Then… see you later, O-Onii-chan…” (Sophia)

Since Sophia was heading to the girl managers’ room, she waved at me before leaving.

Her voice was tinged with embarrassment from calling me “Onii-chan”, and the surrounding club members, who had overheard it, turned to us, looking surprised.

“Ah, see you later.” (Kento)

Even though I could feel the stares around me, I forced myself to stay calm and waved back with a smile.

Then, acting as if nothing had happened, I started walking toward the clubroom—

“Hold on a minute!” (Club members) 

My teammates, who had been watching my exchange with Sophia, pounced on me all at once.

Well, it was more like they grabbed at my arms and shoulders.

“Wh-What!?” (Kento)

“No, no, no! What the hell was that!?” (Club member) 

“Why is she suddenly calling you Onii-chan!?” (Club member) 

“What did you do with Shirakawa-san last night!?” (Club member) 

As expected, everyone was curious about Sophia’s sudden change in how she addressed me.

I figured they’d tease me about it, but it seemed like they were too shocked to even get to that part yet.

“Nothing in particular…?” (Kento)

Since I hadn’t actually done anything to Sophia, I tilted my head and played dumb.

“There’s no way she’d start calling you ‘Onii-chan’ for no reason!” (Club member)

“Wait… don’t tell me… sibling play!?” (Club member)

“What the hell is ‘sibling play’? We really are siblings, you know?” (Kento)

I let out a dry chuckle at my teammates’ completely off-the-wall reactions.

Well, I kind of understood what they were trying to imply, though.

“What kind of dirt do you have on Shirakawa-san to make her call you Onii-chan…!?” (Club member)

“Oi, don’t say things that make me sound like a villain! Sophia just wanted to call me that, that’s all!” (Kento)

The sudden, baseless accusation made me snap back at them.

“No way! There’s no reason Shirakawa-san would want to call you that!” (Club member)

“Exactly! She’s the untouchable, solitary flower!” (Club member)

…Yeah, they were saying some pretty harsh stuff.

Well, considering how Sophia usually carried herself, it was kind of inevitable.

Even if I told them that Sophia actually had a childish side, they probably wouldn’t believe me…

“Well, I’m not asking you to believe me…” (Kento)

I didn’t think I could explain it in a way that would make sense to people who didn’t know that side of her.

Especially since Sophia usually gave off the complete opposite impression, which made it even harder to convince them.

“Damn it, we’re not even allowed to talk to her…!” (Club member)

“Why is it always Kento…!?” (Club member)

“I want Shirakawa-san to call me ‘Onii-chan’ too…!” (Club member)

My teammates were so envious that they were practically shedding tears of frustration.

Even though she was known for her cold personality, it was easy to see how they’d still admire her because of that undeniable cuteness.

“Haha… Well, a lot of things happened…” (Kento)

Back when we first started living together, Sophia’s attitude was downright awful.

At the time, I couldn’t even imagine getting along with her—it was hard enough just to speak to her.

The reason she eventually opened up to me was because of all the difficult situations we been through and overcame together.

To be honest, if any of these guys were put in the same position, I bet most of them would have given up on getting close to her from the start.

Even I, if I lost my memories and had to start over, probably wouldn’t be able to break through her walls again.

I was just lucky things turned out the way they did.

If possible, I’d like to stay close to Sophia just like this—forever.

◆

<Sophia’s PoV>

“—Sophia-chan, do you have a moment?” (Nadeshiko)

During our after-school practice, Nadeshiko-senpai, who had been teaching me how to compile data in the manager’s room, spoke up with a serious expression.

The fact that she deliberately started the conversation this way, despite us having talked normally until now, made it clear that she wanted to discuss something important.

“What is it?” (Sophia)

Feeling a bit nervous, I asked about the matter.

“Why did you change the way you address Kento-kun?” (Nadeshiko)

I had somewhat expected this question at some point, and sure enough, I was finally asked.

Suddenly changing the way I addressed him—and calling a classmate “Onii-chan” on top of that—made it inevitable that someone would be curious.

In fact, even the other baseball team members seemed to be curious about it.

“We’re siblings, so… there’s nothing strange about it, right?” (Sophia)

I maintained a calm expression and answered with a smile.

Knowing her, she had probably seen right through my intentions.

If that’s the case, I wish she wouldn’t ask in the first place…

“I just decided to emphasize our sibling bond more so that people wouldn’t misunderstand. Calling him ‘Onii-chan’ seemed like the quickest way to do that.” (Sophia)

Yes—after hearing Nadeshiko-senpai’s words, I realized that if I could make everyone believe we were truly siblings, I could use that to camouflage my real feelings.

If we were siblings, there was nothing strange about being together. Nothing strange about being close.

Even if we spent time alone, all I had to say was, ‘We’re siblings,’ and that would be the end of it.

And since, even if we weren’t related by blood, Kento-kun and I were still family, I could prove it if necessary.

With this, I could stay by Kento-kun’s side without any worries.

“I don’t think you need to go that far.” (Nadeshiko)

However, Nadeshiko-senpai didn’t seem to approve, subtly suggesting that I stop.

She didn’t look displeased or irritated.

She simply seemed concerned about me.

I wasn’t sure why she was worried, but given the baseball club’s rules, the only way I could stay by Kento-kun’s side was by using my role as his sister.

I didn’t think there was anything wrong with that.

“Kento-kun is currently in the spotlight, both inside and outside the school. I want to eliminate any factors that could potentially drag him down.” (Sophia)

He wasn’t the first player to hit three home runs in a single game—others had done it before.

Still, it was such a rare achievement that many people were paying attention to him.

Even newspapers and online news had headlines like ‘A New Monster is Born in the Reiwa Era!!’, so there were bound to be plenty of people taking interest in him.

In such a situation, someone like me being around him would surely spark rumors.

Even if a passerby happened to see us together, they might mistake me for his girlfriend. But if I called him Onii-chan in those moments, they would assume I was his sister instead.

There was a high chance people would be suspicious due to our different appearances, but as long as the truth was that we were siblings, I figured there was nothing to worry about.

Even if someone posted on social media saying, “They don’t look alike, but she called him Onii-chan,” someone from our school might respond with, “Those two are actually real siblings with the same last name.”

In other words, the chances of people outright claiming that I was his girlfriend would be low.

“…Sophia-chan, you might be more naïve about the world than I thought…” (Nadeshiko)

“Huh?” (Sophia)

I didn’t quite catch what Nadeshiko-senpai muttered, so I tilted my head and looked at her.

“Mm, it’s nothing. If that’s how you see it, and Kento-kun doesn’t seem to mind, then if it works for you two, I suppose it’s fine.” (Nadeshiko)

However, Nadeshiko-senpai simply shook her head, as if dismissing her own words.

It seemed like she had understood my feelings and reasoning.

Just as I was feeling relieved—

“By the way, would it be okay if I stayed over at your place after practice next Saturday?” (Nadeshiko)

She said something outrageous with a smile.

“A sleepover!? Nadeshiko-senpai, at my house!?” (Sophia)

“Yep, that’s right.” (Nadeshiko)

Shocked by the sudden request, I asked again, only for Nadeshiko-senpai to nod with a bright, charming smile.

Lately, we had been spending a lot of time together, so aside from Kento-kun, she was probably the person I was closest to.

But I never expected her to close the distance between us this quickly.

Or rather… Could it be that she was just using me as an excuse to get closer to Kento-kun…!?

That thought even crossed my mind.

But—

“I really want to get to know you better, Sophia-chan, so I’ve been thinking for a while that it’d be fun to have a sleepover someday.” (Nadeshiko)

Seeing that smile, filled with nothing but pure goodwill, made it hard to believe she had any ulterior motives.

More than anything, Nadeshiko-senpai was a genuinely good person.

I had been exposed to plenty of people’s malice before. Even if someone appeared kind on the surface, I could always tell when they were hiding something underneath.

That was precisely why I trusted Nadeshiko-senpai. I knew she was a good person, which was why I felt comfortable spending time with her like this.

“I’ve never had anyone stay over before…” (Sophia)

Having been alone all my life, I had never invited anyone to stay the night—not senpai, not even a friend.

Actually, I had never even had a friend before.

So suddenly being asked if someone could stay over left me feeling lost.

“In that case, wouldn’t this be a good opportunity to gain some experience? Since you struggle with social interactions, Sophia-chan, this could be great practice for you.” (Nadeshiko)

She really seemed eager to stay over.

Did she really like me that much…?

“Nadeshiko-senpai, do you have sleepovers often?” (Sophia)

“Hmm… not really.” (Nadeshiko)

“…………” (Sophia)

I held back the urge to comment as I saw Nadeshiko-senpai smile and shake her head.

If she regularly had sleepovers, I could at least understand why she would want to have one with me.

But when she herself admitted that she didn’t do them often, I couldn’t help but wonder why.

That said, she probably already anticipated that I would think this way and still chose to answer honestly. I didn’t want to push too much and end up making her dislike me, so I kept my thoughts to myself.

“Besides, there are so many things I want to talk to you about, Sophia-chan… Is that a no? We can’t really talk properly during club activities, so I thought it’d be nice to chat while lying on the bed together.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai looked up at me with a pleading expression, as if gauging my reaction.

There was no way I could refuse when she looked at me with such a pleading expression.

But that didn’t mean I could just nod my head right away either—

“If you’re staying over at my house, that means my Onii-chan will be there too…” (Sophia)

I brought up Kento-kun and watched Nadeshiko-senpai’s reaction.

It was obvious that she had feelings for Kento-kun, and there was no way she wasn’t aware of it.

I wanted to judge her response before making my decision.

“I don’t think anything would happen with Sophia-chan around, and besides, Kento-kun doesn’t really hang out with you at home, right? So we won’t really interact that much.” (Nadeshiko)

“Well… that’s true…” (Sophia)

When Kento-kun gets home after club activities, he either does his own training or shuts himself in his room. I also stay in my room to study, so we barely spend time together at home.

Since we had already talked about this during lunch while eating together, Nadeshiko-senpai seemed to have factored it in.

She didn’t look flustered, and she probably expected me to bring up Kento-kun as well.

“Um… I don’t mind, but I should check with Onii-chan first, right…?” (Sophia)

I couldn’t refuse Nadeshiko-senpai’s request.

But since I couldn’t make the decision on my own, I had to confirm it with him first.

Well, knowing Kento-kun… he’d probably be surprised, but in the end, he would respect whatever decision Nadeshiko-senpai and I made…

Afterward, when I checked with Kento-kun, he gave me exactly the response I had expected.

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Thanks for reading!

Come on, parents are always the number one people who you should hide your embarrassing moment from. That’s cause they’re also the ones who would spread it to your relatives, so by the time you know it, everyone in your family tree knows everything about you.

So big news, Toxic Game Streamer is getting a third volume on March 25th. What this means is that I might stop translating this series for a while to complete that one instead. So yeh, just a heads up.

Edit: So, I did translate the rest of this chapter alr, but wordpress decided to die on me so I couldn’t upload them. Rn I have no access to my computer since I’m at army camp. I can only release the chapters on Fri after I come back sry.

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1. None

“—Kento-kun, there’s something I want to talk about. Would it be okay if we spoke in my room?” (Sophia)

On the night of Sophia’s first day as a club member, I had just finished my bath and was staring at data on my screen when she knocked on my door.

After returning together with Kujouin-san, Sophia had gone back to her usual calm self, just like before. It seemed like her consultation with Kujouin-san had gone well.

She still hadn’t quite grasped the right distance with the other club members, but given time, things would surely work out.

“Of course, it’s fine.” (Kento)

She had been avoiding me for the past few days, so there was no way I would turn down her invitation. I stepped out into the hallway and accepted her request.

Having taken her bath before me, she was already in her pajamas, staring intently at my face.

Now that I thought about it, it had been a few days since we’d properly made eye contact like this.

“Aren’t you coming?” (Kento)

“Ah… hmm, yeah, I’m coming.” (Sophia)

When she didn’t move, I prompted her, and Sophia hurriedly scampered off toward her room.

I followed after her and stepped inside.

“Sit on the bed.” (Sophia)

Just like before, she designated the bed as the place to sit, so I quietly took a seat.

As expected, she plopped herself right beside me.

For her, sitting beside me must be the default position when having a conversation.

“So, what did you want to talk about?” (Kento)

Since sitting in silence would just make things awkward, I decided to get straight to the point.

Upon hearing my question, Sophia started fidgeting with her hair slightly awkwardly, her gaze wandering before she finally spoke.

“Before that… I’m sorry about today. I made you worry too, Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

Before getting to the main topic, Sophia apologized for disappearing during the break earlier.

She really was a serious girl.

It was already over and done with, so there was no need for her to go out of her way to apologize…

“It’s fine, I wasn’t worried about it. If anything, I should be the one apologizing—I should’ve stopped Shouta before he got carried away.” (Kento)

Considering how excited Shouta was, it was entirely possible that he would say something weird.

And yet, instead of stopping him, I had even dug deeper into the topic, so I was the one who should be apologizing to her.

“You don’t have to apologize, Kento-kun… You’re too serious…” (Sophia)

“That’s the last thing I want to hear from you, Sophia.” (Kento)

“What’s that supposed to mean…?” (Sophia)

She didn’t seem too happy with my comment and pouted, narrowing her eyes at me in mild annoyance.

But then, she gently placed a hand over her mouth—

“Hehe…” (Sophia)

—and let out a soft, amused laugh.

It seemed like she had only pretended to sulk.

Seeing that cute smile for the first time in days, I found myself unable to look away.

Her smile really suits her.

“I think it’ll be fine, but if anyone gets too forceful or starts bothering you, don’t hesitate to tell me. I’ll take care of it.” (Kento)

I swallowed the words “especially Shouta”.

“Like Kaminagi-kun?” (Sophia)

But Sophia smirked mischievously, tilting her head slightly.

I didn’t expect her to bring it up herself.

“Well… it seems like he’s attracted to you, Sophia.” (Kento)

“He just likes pretty girls, that’s all.” (Sophia)

“You’re calling yourself pretty?” (Kento)

“Because it’s the truth.” (Sophia)

When I called her out on it, Sophia simply responded with a smile.

Since she was often praised as the most beautiful girl in school, it seemed she was well aware of it herself.

That said, she was probably just saying it in a lighthearted way.

The proof was in how she laughed so cheerfully.

“—Anyway, I wanted to apologize for today first, but… Oh, did you hear? My homeroom teacher, Kuzumine-sensei, is being transferred to a distant affiliated school.” (Sophia)

“What? At such an awkward time of the year!?” (Kento)

The sudden revelation caught me off guard.

I hadn’t heard any rumors about this…

“They say his condescending remarks toward students reached the chairman’s ears and were seen as a problem. But considering the timing…” (Sophia)

“Could it be because of what happened in the staff room with us?” (Kento)

Sophia gave a small nod.

There had already been bad rumors about Kuzumine-sensei, so if he was being transferred now, that was the most likely reason.

But the teachers in the Special Preparatory Course all seemed to lean in Kuzumine-sensei’s favor.

That would mean… the coach reported it to the chairman?

…No, that person was on good terms with the chairman, but he didn’t seem like the type to do that.

Then who—?

“His attitude was awful, so I think it’s better for the students that he’s gone, but… doesn’t this leave you and your class in a tough spot with the timing?” (Kento)

“The handover is being handled properly. Everyone was fed up with his condescending attitude and snide remarks, so when they heard about the transfer, they were actually happy.” (Sophia)

So even Kuzumine-sensei’s own class disliked him…

Then again, with the way he treated students, it was only natural.

I had thought that someone should put him in his place, but I never expected that the chairman would actually be the one to do it.

“Well… this is a relief. I was worried he might try to harass you, Sophia.” (Kento)

Even if it wasn’t intentional, Kuzumine-sensei had essentially been humiliated because of Sophia.

It wouldn’t have been surprising if he started treating her more harshly because of it. But now that he was gone, that concern had disappeared.

“I feel the same way.” (Sophia)

“Haha… yeah, I figured. So, was this what you wanted to talk about?” (Kento)

Judging by how she had brought it up, I felt like it wasn’t the main topic, but I asked anyway.

As expected, Sophia shook her head.

“No… There was something I wanted to ask you, Kento-kun.” (Sophia)

“Hmm? What do you want to ask?” (Kento)

She looked at me as if gauging my reaction.

Well, if she had something to ask, she could just ask me directly.

Of course, there were some things I wouldn’t want to answer, and in that case, I’d just find a way to dodge the question.

“Why did you choose this school, Kento-kun?” (Sophia)

Huh, that kind of question…?

I was a little surprised by what Sophia asked, but now that I thought about it, I had never really talked about it before.

Maybe she had been curious all this time but held back from asking.

Now that we had gotten closer, she must have finally mustered the courage to bring it up.

“Well… because the baseball team is strong. I mean, it’s a powerhouse.” (Kento)

“Is that really the only reason?” (Sophia)

Something about it seemed to bother her.

She stared straight into my eyes.

…Did she notice I was dodging the question?

“Does it sound strange?” (Kento)

“It’s not strange… but I do have doubts. You’re not just saying it—you’re seriously aiming to win Koshien and go pro. If that’s the case, you could’ve chosen one of the prestigious schools in Osaka that has dominated Koshien in recent years, or even one of the famous schools in Hiroshima, which is just a neighboring prefecture. Even if you wanted to stay within the prefecture, there were other schools that have actually made it to Koshien recently. So… why Seijou?” (Sophia)

She spoke a little faster than usual, as if she was trying to get all her thoughts out. But from the way she asked, it was clear that she was simply curious.

If you have high goals, it’s better to be in an environment that matches those goals.

I agree with that myself.

But—

“First, the reason I didn’t get scouted by any of the high schools that are active in Koshien is because I didn’t catch the eye of the coaches or scouts.” (Kento)

It’s not uncommon for top schools to not offer a spot to someone who didn’t receive a recommendation and had to enter through regular admissions. In such cases, even if you want to join the baseball team, it’s often not possible at prestigious schools.

So, there were times when it wasn’t even an option, even though I wanted to.

Of course, it depends on the school, and not all schools were like that.

“Next, I didn’t want to burden my father. When it comes to prestigious or powerhouse private schools, the tuition isn’t the only cost—travel expenses for tournaments can add up, and if it’s out of the prefecture, there’s also the cost of dormitories… I didn’t want to put that kind of burden on him.” (Kento)

The financial issue is something that always follows you.

It’s not something you can just casually decide to do.

“So, you decided on Seijou because you were able to get a scholarship, right?” (Kento)

Sophia quickly understood what I meant, and I couldn’t help but admire her as the model student she was.

As she said, I chose Seijou because I was granted a special scholarship that covered all my tuition fees.

Of course, that wasn’t the only reason.

By the way, in our year, the others were in a similar situation. Shuuto had all his tuition, uniform fees, study materials, and dorm fees fully covered.

Shouta had half off his tuition, with full dorm fee coverage, and the remaining two got half off their tuition as well.

“Well, yeah.” (Kento)

“But if that’s the case… wouldn’t it have been fine to go to another powerhouse school within the prefecture?” (Sophia)

If you’re good enough to qualify for a special scholarship, other schools would often have their eyes on you.

That’s probably why she asked.

Is she quick to understand, or does she just have prior knowledge?

Well, she seems to know a lot about high school baseball, so it’s probably the latter.

“I didn’t make a name for myself in my middle school games in the Boys League. So, there’s no way I would have received any offers for a scholarship.” (Kento)

“Eh…?” (Sophia)

She looked at me, confused.

It was understandable.

If you just hear that, it does sound contradictory.

“But, Kento-kun, you’re a scholarship student, right…?” (Sophia)

“Yeah, that’s right. I guess I was just lucky… Can I tell you the whole story? It might take a little while.” (Kento)

I thought she might not want to hear it, but she nodded with a smile.

When she gave me that sweet smile, I couldn’t help but feel a little shy.

“You know that Shuuto’s an amazing pitcher, right?” (Kento)

When I mentioned his name, she nodded affirmatively.

She’d come to watch the games, so she seemed to understand that well.

“Even though he’s that incredible, he introduced me to the coach… well, I guess it was sort of an introduction…?” (Kento)

As I said it, I started to feel unsure.

Looking back on it, the word “introduction” didn’t seem to quite fit.

“Why are you unsure of that…?” (Sophia)

Naturally, she picked up on my uncertainty.

“How should I put it… apparently, Shuuto set a condition for the coach. He said, ‘If Kento Shirakawa is also coming, then I’ll enroll.’” (Kento)

Shuuto wasn’t always a fan of the coach from the start.

The way he is now, with such strong admiration for the coach, only developed after entering high school and working alongside him.

Until then, even with the coach, he had an intimidating attitude, just like how he’d act around us.

“Why would Kurogane-kun do that…?” (Sophia)

“Well, I’m not sure because he never told me directly, but maybe something happened when we faced off in our third year? Maybe something clicked for him then?” (Kento)

Although, to be honest, we got completely beaten in that match.

Their team went on to reach the top four in the national tournament, and honestly, from the beginning, I didn’t feel like we stood a chance.

That’s why I was so surprised when Shuuto came to me with the coach.

“So, what happened next?” (Sophia)

She seemed eager to hear the rest, prompting me to continue.

I thought she’d gloss over it, but it looked like she was really interested.

“Well, the coach and Shuuto came to my house once. They watched me hit and catch, and gave me some feedback.” (Kento)

It wasn’t so much that they watched me, as much as they forced me to do it…

Seriously, those two were really pushy back then.

Well, not much has changed since then…

“After that, they asked me about my thoughts as a catcher, how I’d move or respond in certain situations. How to lead a pitcher in specific situations, how to handle different types of batters. They asked me all sorts of detailed questions.” (Kento)

That was probably the test for me.

No matter how much they wanted to recruit Shuuto, the school wouldn’t easily accept using the special admission system for someone who hadn’t shown results.

The coach must have wanted to judge whether it was really worth convincing the school to get me on the team.

“So, you impressed the coach, and that’s why you accepted the offer, right?” (Sophia)

“No, I actually turned them down at first. In fact, I turned them down multiple times.” (Kento)

“Eh…?” (Sophia)

Sophia looked at me as if she couldn’t believe it.

She probably thought I was an idiot for passing up such a big opportunity.

It’s a pretty embarrassing past, so I didn’t really want to talk about it, but… I might as well say it now that I’ve come this far.

“It’s an embarrassing story, but… back then, I was really messed up. I’d lost all my confidence in baseball.” (Kento)

“Messed up…? Why?” (Sophia)

Sophia looked at me with concern, her eyes soft with worry. She was genuinely worried about me, I could tell.

“I was practically ostracized by my teammates.” (Kento)

“Wha…!?” (Sophia)

I answered honestly, and Sophia was left speechless.

It must have been quite a shock to her.

“I was playing in a team that was called ‘the fallen powerhouse,’ and my teammates didn’t have much drive. They didn’t care much about winning, either. I guess that made me seem out of place. I often heard things like ‘What’s the point of trying so hard? It’s not like you’ll go anywhere with it.’” (Kento)

“That’s terrible…” (Sophia)

She looked at me with sympathy, her gaze filled with concern.

But the truth was, it wasn’t just their fault.

No, if anything, I was the one at fault.

“I was the one who stayed on that team, and back then, I never even tried to talk things out with my teammates. I thought I could make up for their lack of drive by just working hard by myself, so the gap between us just kept getting wider.” (Kento)

That’s how I ended up getting shut out by my own team.

There had to have been another way, but back then, I was terrible at dealing with people and didn’t have any room to breathe.

If I could go back to that time now, I wonder if I could’ve achieved a different outcome.

“I was always on edge… and when I suffered a crushing defeat in the summer tournament of my third year—when we played against guys like Shuuto —the string snapped. For a while, I even considered quitting baseball.” (Kento)

Looking back, I really was in a bad place during that time.

I was slapped with the harsh reality and everything felt like it was falling apart. I was in a pretty terrible state.

“That’s… but you didn’t do anything wrong, Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

“No, that’s not it… Honestly, if they told me I was the one who ruined the team, I couldn’t deny it.” (Kento)

Because I was an outlier, the atmosphere within the team had soured.

If I hadn’t been there, maybe they would’ve had more fun with baseball.

At the very least, it was me who chose to stay with that team, so I couldn’t blame my teammates.

“Well, I ended up telling the coach about all this when his recruitment got way too persistent.” (Kento)

The guy came to my house every day, after all…

He really wanted to recruit Shuuto, I guess.

“So, what did the coach say…?” (Sophia)

“He laughed and made fun of me.” (Kento)

“What!? That’s awful! The worst!” (Sophia)

Sophia, misunderstanding the situation after hearing it, flushed red in anger.

I guess I didn’t explain it very well just now.

“No, it’s not as bad as it sounds. He actually said this: ‘How pathetic, letting something like that get you down. Just get back at them with results. The guy you were mocking, I’ve risen up to this point through hard work, so what about it? You say you don’t have the ability to produce results? Fool, at least two people believe in your talent. Kurogane and I. Trust me, follow me, and in less than a year, I’ll show you a whole new world.'” (Coach)

I left out some parts of what he said, but that was basically it.

It was actually a good thing he laughed it off first. Those words from the coach fell into my heart surprisingly easily.

That’s when I decided to give it a shot under this coach.

I made an effort to change my personality, to be more accepted by others, based on the coach’s advice, so I wouldn’t repeat the same mistakes.

That’s the kind of person I am now.

“The way he said it… was too blunt. And kind of forceful…” (Sophia)

Sophia seemed bothered by the coach’s way of speaking, giving me a dissatisfied look.

Maybe she thought he should have been more considerate with his words, especially since I was already hurt.

“Well, either way, thanks to him, I was able to move forward, and now I’m able to play baseball like this. So, I’m grateful to the coach, and that’s why I decided to work with him.” (Kento)

If it weren’t for those words, I probably would have given up on my dreams and quit baseball.

Meeting the coach really changed my fate.

“I see…” (Sophia)

She lowered her head, her expression unreadable.

It wasn’t a very interesting story, so I couldn’t blame her for reacting that way.

“Anything else you want to ask?” (Kento)

“Um… What should I do… I was planning to casually bring it up during the conversation, but now the atmosphere’s gotten so heavy…” (Sophia)

Sophia, for some reason, averted her gaze and muttered to herself in English.

Maybe she was looking for a new topic to bring up.

If that’s the case, I’ll just wait for her to come up with something. I hadn’t been able to talk much with her these past few days, so this is a good time to make up for the lost time.

“Ah…! By the way, Kento-kun, the three home runs you hit were covered in the newspaper and online news, and even on TV for a bit. Everyone must have been so surprised, right!?” (Sophia)

Sophia brightened up as if she had found the perfect topic, and eagerly asked.

“Wait, why did the topic suddenly fly off in a completely different direction…?” (Kento)

“Because I’m curious…!” (Sophia)

“Curious…?” (Kento)

Certainly, many students like to talk about the accomplishments of their classmates, but Sophia isn’t the type to show much interest in others.

At least, this shouldn’t be the kind of topic she would latch onto.

“Well, you know, there are always girls who try to get close to you the moment you become famous, and as a manager, I can’t let anything weird happen to our important cleanup hitter right before a major tournament, so I have to keep track of things…!” (Sophia)

Maybe because I had commented about it, she nervously looked up at the ceiling while adding that.

Yeah, I’m not dumb enough to take her explanation at face value.

But… if I kept pushing her any further, Sophia would probably get flustered and start speaking in English.

If that happens, the conversation will stop making sense, so I can’t really push her any further.

For now, I’ll just pretend to believe her…

“Well, I do get approached more than I used to… but even with the China tournament coming up, don’t worry, I’m not going to lose myself in love or anything.” (Kento)

I smiled to reassure Sophia so she wouldn’t worry too much.

However…

“I knew it… more girls are surrounding him… And whenever I see him on campus, he’s often surrounded by strange girls…” (Sophia)

Sophia started muttering to herself in English.

“Sophia?” (Kento)

“The kind of girls who start clinging once someone becomes famous are never any good… maybe I should act as a barrier…” (Sophia)

“Sophia?” (Kento)

It seemed like she had gotten lost in her own thoughts. I grabbed her shoulder and pulled her back to the present.

“—Huh!? W-What…?” (Sophia)

Sophia looked at me in surprise, but did she not realize how deep into her own world she had gotten?

“Well, you were mumbling to yourself, so I was just wondering if everything is okay…” (Kento)

“It’s nothing, really… I was just worried that you might get carried away now that you’re suddenly popular.” (Sophia)

“That’s harsh!?” (Kento)

What did she just say? Was she badmouthing me!?

Just because I don’t understand much English doesn’t mean she can say whatever she wants, right!?

“Have you ever had a girlfriend, Kento-kun?” (Sophia)

Sophia asked, glancing up at me with a sly look.

Why is she asking me that…?

“I’ve never had one…” (Kento)

“Well, that’s a bit worrying. If a girl starts coming onto you strongly, you might fall for it.” (Sophia)

“What are you trying to say!?” (Kento)

Do I really come across as the type to get easily swayed by girls!?

“Kento-kun, I think it’s my duty as your imouto to keep an eye on you to make sure no strange bugs start attaching themselves to you…” (Sophia)

Sophia fiddled with her hair, her cheeks slightly flushed, nervously speaking.

I never thought she’d go as far as to say she’d be keeping watch.

“Are you serious about this!?” (Kento)

“Don’t worry, I’ll just check in on you during break time or something.” (Sophia)

Oh, after spending time together recently, I can tell—she’s not joking about this.

“That’s gonna be tough, since the buildings are pretty far apart, right? But you don’t have to worry. I’m not planning on getting distracted by love until after my retirement… .” (Kento)

My goal is to win at Koshien, so I have no time to get involved with other things.

And then…

I glance at Sophia.

Sophia wore a complicated expression, as if she were both relieved and a little down.

Since she had joined the baseball team, it was clear that I wouldn’t be involved in any romance until I retired.

“I understand that you’re dedicated to baseball, but… do you have the confidence to turn down a really cute girl if she came on to you?” (Sophia)

Sophia still didn’t seem convinced and brought up an extreme example.

But this isn’t some manga or anime—there’s no way I’d suddenly be pursued by some ridiculously cute girl.

“I’m fine. I’ve built up some resistance over it recently.” (Kento)

After all, I spend every day with the most beautiful girl in school.

Honestly, I can’t imagine any girl being more adorable than Sophia.

Plus, I’ve built up some resistance thanks to Kujouin-san.

“Th-Th-That’s…! ~~~~~~!” (Sophia)

Sophia suddenly let out an unintelligible sound and began squirming in embarrassment.

It seemed like she understood what I meant.

When I saw her reaction, I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed…

Crap, did I mess up again…?

The awkwardness started to make my stomach hurt, and I felt a pang of regret.

“Uh… no, of course, I wasn’t seriously thinking about actually monitoring you or anything like that…” (Sophia)

We both fell silent, but Sophia broke the silence first.

I thought she was serious, but…

“At least I won’t cause trouble for the team, so don’t worry about it.” (Kento)

If I did, Shuuto would probably kill me.

As I half-jokingly thought about that…

“I know… onii-chan’s not the kind of person to do something like that..” (Sophia)

Those words hit my ears, and I couldn’t believe what I just heard.

“Eh…?” (Kento)

I must’ve misheard.

When I looked at Sophia’s face, she was blushing deeply and looking at me with teary eyes.

She was clearly embarrassed, and I realized that I hadn’t misheard what she said earlier.

“Did you just call me… ‘onii-chan’?” (Kento)

It was so unexpected that I instinctively had to confirm it.

She had called me “onii-chan” once before, but that time it had felt more like provocation.

This time, however, the meaning behind it was entirely different.

“~~~!! W-Why did you notice so quickly when it was just part of the conversation…!?” (Sophia)

Sophia started rambling in English as usual.

That meant she was really flustered.

Had she just said it accidentally? Or was it something she actually wanted to say?

Her expression was ambiguous, and I couldn’t tell which one it was.

“Ah…” (Sophia)

As I was confused, Sophia seemed to realize that she had spoken in English, and she looked down, embarrassed.

I wasn’t sure what she was thinking, but it was clear I had hurt her with my reaction.

As unbelievable as it seemed, maybe, just maybe, Sophia really did want to call me “onii-chan“.

If she didn’t, there was no way she’d be this down.

“If you want to call me ‘onii-chan‘, I’m okay with it.” (Kento)

I smiled gently, trying to encourage her to be more honest with herself.

Honestly, even though she had just started calling me “Kento-kun” recently, I didn’t feel entirely indifferent about the idea of her calling me “onii-chan“.

But I wanted to respect Sophia’s feelings.

…Even though, it was really embarrassing.

“Nn… From now on, I want to call you ‘onii-chan‘…” (Sophia)

Sophia nodded slightly, her face still bright red.

Her reaction was so cute that I almost reached out to pat her head, but I held myself back.

Sometimes I do pat her head, but I could tell her embarrassment was nearing its limit. If I teased her further, she might panic.

“Yeah, let’s go with that. Was that what you wanted to talk about?” (Kento)

“Yeah… I actually planned to call you that more naturally in the flow of conversation… but…” (Sophia)

So that was why she was looking for the next topic once we finished talking.

For someone like Sophia, who’s clumsy with people, this was probably quite a challenge.

In fact, the awkwardness of the way she wanted to address me made it nearly impossible for her to do it normally.

“You’re probably going to get teased by everyone, but don’t worry about it, okay?” (Kento)

If Sophia started calling me “onii-chan“, everyone is going to wonder what’s going on.

And, of course, they would use it as an opportunity to tease her.

“Do you think I’ll get teased…?” (Sophia)

But Sophia didn’t seem to think that was going to happen.

I only knew her since she entered high school, but it was true that, as she was called “Solitary Flower”, she had distanced herself from everyone, so she likely hadn’t been teased for quite some time.

Moreover, no one really had the guts to tease Sophia.

In other words, I would be the one getting teased instead.

That said…

“If you’re with me, they might tease you…” (Kento)

If Sophia were on her own, it was highly unlikely she’d be teased. But if I were by her side, the psychological barrier toward her would lower, and they might try to tease her together with me.

If she didn’t like that, she’d have to stay away from me.

“Well, it’s fine… It’s actually for the sake of staying together…” (Sophia)

“Huh? What do you mean?” (Kento)

Not understanding what she had muttered, I asked her to clarify what she meant.

“It’s… it’s nothing…!” (Sophia)

But I was easily deceived by Sophia’s flustered expression.

Her behavior was so obvious, but was it something too inconvenient for her to talk about?

“I can’t possibly say it… Calling him ‘onii-chan’ just so I could be with Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

Still blushing, Sophia began muttering to herself again.

She didn’t seem angry, so it was fine…

“I’m sorry, that’s all I wanted to talk about.” (Sophia)

As I stared at her, Sophia turned to face me and subtly gave me the message of “Go back to your room.”

It seemed like calling me “onii-chan” was the main topic after all.

“Is that okay…?” (Kento)

It was up to Sophia how she wanted to address me, but I was still worried if it was okay not to get used to it.

She often gets flustered, so I was worried that if she tried to call me in front of everyone, she might panic.

“I-I’m fine…! I mean, I’m already so embarrassed, I’m at my limit…!” (Sophia)

It seemed like Sophia wanted me to leave because she couldn’t handle it anymore.

It really seemed like she had reached her limit.

In that case, I thought it would be better if she didn’t force herself to call me by that, but I guess it was something she really wanted to do.

“I got it. Just don’t push yourself too hard, okay?” (Kento)

“Yeah, thanks…” (Sophia)

With that, I left Sophia’s room, but—

“Waaaahhh! That was so embarrassing! My heart was about to jump out of my chest!” (Sophia)

From her room, I heard her loud, panicked voice.

---

Thanks for reading!

Here it is!! It finally happened! Good job, Sophia~ Now we can enjoy her calling MC ‘onii-chan’ for the rest of the volume. 

Honestly, I enjoy the chapters which are just MC and Sophia talking to each other with no one interrupting them. More of these chapters please.

The rest of this chapter will be posted next weekend. I translated this part a week early cause I was somewhat unsatisfied with the previous chapter. Also, this chapter is long man, there are 2 more illustrations.

---

1. None

The day after the prefectural tournament ended, the time had finally come for Sophia to officially join the club as a manager.

The coach had asked her to wait until the tournament was over, so she was set to join the day after the finals—but it seemed like she still wasn’t mentally prepared yet.

“You okay?” (Kento)

I glanced at Sophia, walking beside me, and called out to her.

“W-W-W-What do you mean…!?” (Sophia)

Standing in front of the school gate, Sophia was more nervous than I had ever seen her before.

She had a strong attachment to the baseball club, and perhaps the idea of jumping into an unfamiliar group, especially one full of boys, was weighing on her.

Up until now, she had always kept boys at a distance, refusing to let them get close. It was probably a huge hurdle for her to start getting along with them now.

Ever since her decision to join was finalized, she had been acting strangely, and I figured that was the reason why.

Though for some reason… she was acting distant toward me as well.

Even though we were going to the same place today, she had tried to go separately. She had also stopped asking for head pats after studying with Jessica-san.

If anything, she had even stopped making eye contact with me entirely.

She must really be struggling to keep her composure.

“You don’t have to be so nervous. They’re all good guys, so you’ll be fine.” (Kento)

Sophia always had bad rumors following her, but not a single club member was against her joining.

If anything, they all seemed to be welcoming her with open arms.

“I-It’s not like I’m nervous over something like that…” (Sophia)

Turning her face away with a pout, Sophia averted her gaze.

She was as stubborn as ever.

“Ah, Kento-kun, Sophia-chan, good morning!” (Nadeshiko)

As we stepped through the school gate, a bright and gentle smile greeted us.

It was none other than the school’s Madonna, Kujouin Nadeshiko-san.

She must have been waiting for us, knowing that Sophia was joining the club today.

The two of us bowed and returned the greeting.

“Finally, this day has come. I’ve been looking forward to this, Sophia-chan.” (Nadeshiko)

With a cheerful smile, Kujouin-san approached Sophia.

Back when they hadn’t spoken before, she had seemed a bit wary of Sophia. But lately, perhaps thanks to having lunch together, they seemed to have gotten quite close.

More than that, I had a feeling Kujouin-san actually liked Sophia.

That’s probably why she had gone out of her way to wait here, and compared to how she interacted with the other junior managers, her demeanor towards Sophia felt noticeably closer.

“This is all thanks to Nadeshiko-senpai and everyone in the baseball club. Congratulations on your victory.” (Sophia)

Sophia, who had grown more comfortable with Kujouin-san, expressed her thanks and congratulations with a mature smile.

She wasn’t great at socializing, but if she could manage polite formalities like this, she’d probably get along just fine with everyone.

Even in the long run, it didn’t seem like she’d have much trouble.

“Mm, thank you. But honestly, the things I did were pretty minor. Both your joining and our victory were thanks to Kento-kun working really hard. Of course, that’s not to say the rest of the baseball club didn’t give it their all too.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san said this as she turned her gaze toward me.

Since she was a kind and considerate person, she was probably saying this to raise Sophia’s opinion of me.

It was just flattery, so I shouldn’t take it too seriously.

If anything, a huge factor of our victory was thanks to Shuuto.

Of course, his ability to shut down strong opponents was one thing, but his mere presence had a huge positive impact as well.

Having an ace gave us a sense of security during matches while simultaneously putting pressure on our opponents.

—Of course, that didn’t mean we won solely because of Shuuto’s strength.

“Kujouin-san’s ability to gather information and create data played a huge role in helping us.” (Kento)

In truth, her ability to gather information was on another level.

Not only did she have many friends from other schools, but her refined demeanor, humble attitude, exceptional looks, and natural communication skills allowed her to easily get close to people. Thanks to that, she was able to collect information and videos on opposing players.

On top of that, she was smart, so her data was not only accurate but also easy to understand.

Since my playstyle heavily relied on analyzing data for both offense and defense, her insights had been a tremendous help to me.

To be honest, when it came to data compilation, Sophia was probably just as capable as Kujouin-san. However, expecting her to gather information at the same level as Kujouin-san would be unreasonable, so after Kujouin-san graduated, things might get a little difficult.

“Kento-kun, you’re really good at giving compliments.” (Nadeshiko)

“I’m just stating the truth.” (Kento)

Suddenly, I noticed Sophia puffing out her cheeks slightly, giving me a sidelong glare.

She looked somewhat displeased.

“What’s wrong?” (Kento)

“Eh?” (Sophia)

When I called out to her, Sophia blinked in surprise.

…Wait, does she not even realize it herself?

Since her reaction was different from what I expected, I couldn’t shake off a sense of unease.

“No, it just seemed like you wanted to say something…” (Kento)

“—!” (Sophia)

At my words, Sophia visibly gasped, as if she knew exactly what I was talking about.

Then, as if trying to escape my gaze, her eyes wandered while she desperately tried to think of something.

A few seconds later, once she had seemingly made up her mind, she hurriedly spoke.

“I-It’s just your imagination…!” (Sophia)

Her voice came out slightly rougher than usual, and for some reason, her face had turned a bit red.

I didn’t think I had said anything to make her upset, though…?

“A-Anyway, I’ll go from here with Nadeshiko-senpai…!” (Sophia)

It was as if she were outright saying she didn’t want to be with me, as she tried to leave with Kujouin-san.

Since our destination was the same for the most part, I didn’t see the need for us to split up…

“Hmm~? We’re going to the same place, so why don’t we just go together? You’ve come this far with Kento-kun, after all.” (Nadeshiko)

As Sophia hurried to leave, Kujouin-san tilted her head with a smile on her face.

If it were her, she had probably already noticed that Sophia was trying to avoid being with me and was deliberately keeping her from leaving.

Most likely, she was giving us time to talk so that Sophia and I wouldn’t bring any awkward tension into practice.

“If Nadeshiko-senpai and I are with Kento-kun, we’d stand out too much…” (Sophia)

“It’s fine. Everyone already knows that Kento-kun and I are in the same club, and most people know that you and Kento-kun are siblings too. So, I don’t think anyone would find it strange if we walked together.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san blocked off Sophia’s escape route with a dazzling smile, countering her attempt to slip away with logic.

If she were in one of her more absentminded moments, it might have been different, but when she was aware of the situation, there was no getting past her with excuses or half-baked reasoning.

Sophia seemed to understand that as well—

“…I suppose so.” (Sophia)

—And, as if resigning herself, she returned to us.

However, by placing herself next to Kujouin-san, she created an artificial wall between us.

…Had I somehow ended up making her dislike me again without realizing it?

“…Well, I guess it’s fine for now.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san placed a finger on her chin, looked up at the sky as if deep in thought, and then muttered something softly with a smile.

It seemed she had no intention of interfering further.

She had definitely noticed Sophia’s strange behavior, yet she wasn’t stepping in to smooth things over between us. That probably meant she had an idea of why Sophia was acting this way.

Since it wasn’t like there was an actual problem, and we still had to introduce her to the other club members, I figured it was best not to poke at the situation too much.

With that in mind, I decided not to push the conversation with Sophia any further. Instead, I chatted casually with Kujouin-san as we made our way to the clubroom.

◆

“—Shirakawa Sophia desu. Starting today, I’ll be working as a manager. It’s a pleasure to be here.” (Sophia)

“““““She’s here!””””” (Club members)

The moment Sophia finished her introduction in front of the gathered team, the club members erupted in cheers.

Some even whistled loudly—clearly, they had been eagerly awaiting her arrival.

While I was happy to see my imouto so warmly welcomed, at the same time… I had a bad feeling about today’s practice.

After all, our coach was smiling ear to ear, enjoying the situation way too much for my liking.

“Ok, you lot. Since you must still be tired from the tournament yesterday, I was planning to end the morning session with just basic training and give you the afternoon off—but it looks like you’re all brimming with energy, huh? With the regional tournament coming up, we might as well go all in with practice, right?” (Coach)

My bad feeling turned out to be right on the mark. With a refreshingly cheerful smile, the coach had just dropped a bombshell.

This wasn’t just about extending practice into the afternoon.

He was declaring that both the morning and afternoon would consist of grueling, Spartan-like training.

The team members, who had been told after the match yesterday that “tomorrow’s practice will be just in the morning,” reacted with a collective shock.

Only Shuuto seemed eager, muttering, “Practice is better anyway.”

“Coach, we don’t have lunch, though…” (Team captain)

The captain, perhaps hoping for some leniency, hesitantly raised his hand to appeal to the fact that no one had brought food.

But if something like that could sway him, he wouldn’t have said anything in the first place.

“Don’t worry, I’ve already arranged meals for everyone.” (Coach)

“………” (Club members)

Realizing that the coach was completely serious, the entire team fell silent.

Though he was doing his best not to show it on his face, it was clear that the coach’s decision had left the team feeling disappointed.

I glanced at Sophia.

She was still standing next to the coach, looking uncomfortable and often casting her gaze downward.

…It couldn’t be helped, I suppose.

I wasn’t too keen on playing this kind of role, but—

“Coach, because the China Tournament is coming up, shouldn’t we take the opportunity to rest when we can? If we’re still tired and unfocused, training will be inefficient, and the risk of injury increases.” (Kento)

When I raised my hand to speak, everyone looked at me in surprise.

The coach, however, was already wearing a smirk, as if he had known I would say something like that.

Seeing that expression, I immediately realized I’d walked straight into his trap.

“What’s this, Kento? It’s rare to hear you say something like that, considering you’re always so focused on practice.” (Coach)

“No, I just thought about what would be best for the club…” (Kento)

I gave the usual polite response, but in reality, the reason I spoke up was because I felt that, if things kept going this way, Sophia would end up blaming herself for what was about to happen.

Even though the club members were making a ruckus, if it hadn’t been for her, that wouldn’t have happened in the first place.

Of course, no one would actually blame her, but she, as the main cause of it, would likely worry about it.

That’s why I intervened, but when I thought about it, I realized that the coach must have already anticipated the club members’ reaction to Sophia joining and knew I would step in to protect her.

This whole situation had been carefully orchestrated, and the coach had probably planned it in advance.

What a mischievous person he was.

Well, if I hadn’t intervened, we probably would have had a brutal practice for real.

“Fine, I’ll let it slide this time, but it’s a one-time deal.” (Coach)

The coach said that, then gave Sophia a look, signaling her to continue her introduction.

It might have been the coach’s consideration, knowing that the club members getting too rowdy would make Sophia uncomfortable.

At least now, the club members wouldn’t be making a fuss.

I glanced at everyone’s faces, and they looked relieved.

They were probably exhausted, so this was for the best.

“……..” (Shuuto)

Well, it seemed like one person wasn’t too happy about it, though.

Ah, my stomach hurts.

“Um… actually, there’s something I’d like to thank you all for.” (Sophia)

With the room falling silent, Sophia hesitated a little, finding it hard to speak, but she continued with polite words.

I could tell what she wanted to say, but thanking everyone in this situation felt off, and I had a feeling this was going to lead to something a bit awkward.

But I couldn’t stop her, so Sophia opened her mouth to continue.

“Last week’s match was tied to my joining the club, and thanks to everyone’s hard work, I was able to join. So, thank you very much—” (Sophia)

“Don’t get the wrong idea. We didn’t do it for you.” (Shuuto)

As Sophia was speaking with a serious and grateful attitude, a sharp interruption came out of nowhere, cutting into her words.

I had a feeling this would happen… I shifted my gaze toward the one who had spoken.

It was none other than Shuuto, the same person who had been glaring at me earlier.

“Kuragane-kun, she’s speaking right now, so…” (Nadeshiko)

“No, it’s fine. Let him say it.” (Coach)

Just as Kujouin-san hastily tried to stop Shuuto, the coach intervened.

Whether the coach wanted to see how Sophia would respond or whether he agreed with Shuuto’s stance, I couldn’t say for sure. But I really hoped he wouldn’t let this go on.

Even if I tried to stop it now, the coach would most likely put a stop to me, too, so… What should I do?

As I stood there, watching the situation unfold, Shuutou continued speaking, despite Sophia’s confused expression.

“We were just playing for ourselves. There is no reason for you to thank us, nor is there a reason we owe you any thanks.” (Shuuto)

Without caring about the accusing stares from the others, Shuuto said exactly what he wanted to.

As usual, Shuuto was far too blunt, and it made my head hurt.

I understood what he was trying to say, but he really needed to think about his phrasing a little more. At this rate, all he was going to do was make Sophia angry.

“I knew it… I really dislike this person…” (Sophia)

When I glanced at Sophia to check if she was about to shout, I saw her mutter something quietly under her breath.

She was trying not to show it, but it was clear she was expressing her dissatisfaction.

The other members of the club were glaring at Shuuto as well, though they were holding back their anger for the coach’s sake. There was no doubt in my mind that they’d be voicing complaints to him later.

“—Sophia, what Shuuto meant is that you don’t have to feel like you owe a debt or something.” (Kento)

Realizing things might get worse, I raised my hand to explain to Sophia.

It would be troublesome to have to explain this one by one later, so I figured I should just clear things up for everyone right now.

This time, everyone turned to look at me with surprised expressions.

“Even with the whole situation involving the challenge, the baseball team was only playing for themselves. So, just because Sophia was able to join, it doesn’t mean that you need to feel like you owe a debt or you need to do something in return. Shuuto was just trying to say that you don’t have to feel burdened by this thought, and should just focus on doing your best as a manager.” (Kento)

As I finished explaining, the club members all exchanged glances, their faces full of uncertainty, as if thinking, “Wait, that’s not quite right, is it?”

No one seemed to take Shuuto’s words in the way I had intended.

However…

“Didn’t I just say that?” (Shuuto)

Shuuto indirectly confirmed what I had said, making the situation even more awkward.

“Ehhh…?” (Club members)

Because of that, everyone wore an indescribable expression.

I understood what they were thinking.

It was the same thing I had thought just a few moments ago.

“Is this… Is this guy a tsundere…?” (Sophia)

It seemed that Sophia had come to understand that Shuuto hadn’t meant anything malicious by his words.

But it was so unexpected that she seemed genuinely confused.

Because of that, she had blurted out exactly what she was thinking.

And that, of course, became the new source of tension.

“Are you trying to start a fight with me…?” (Shuuto)

Shuuto, who had interpreted the tsundere comment as an insult, glared at Sophia with a sharp look.

It was clear he wasn’t just being awkward; he was genuinely angry.

Well, it was understandable. Being called a tsundere like that when that’s just how he talks was insulting in his eyes.

“Shuuto, wait…! Sophia didn’t mean any harm…!” (Kento)

“In this case, isn’t it worse when there’s no ill intent…?” (Shuuto)

“Well, maybe, but let’s just calm down for now! You know, it’s in front of the coach…” (Kento)

The coach is strict when it comes to arguments among the team.

If things go badly, the afternoon practice and intense drills that had been canceled earlier might come back.

That’s something I definitely want to avoid, and besides, Shuuto respects the coach. If I bring up the coach, he’ll likely calm down.

“…Yeah, I guess you’re right.” (Shuuto)

As expected, Shuuto quieted down.

This is really nerve-wracking today.

“Thanks. I’ll talk to Sophia properly later.” (Kento)

“Yeah. Speaking of which, I also have something I want to talk to you about, Kento, about earlier.” (Shuuto)

“…I figured.” (Kento)

It seems like Shuuto was still holding a grudge over the comment I made against the coach.

Just when I thought the crisis was over, here comes another one.

Well, I figured we’d talk about it later when we were alone, so it wasn’t too big of a deal.

“By the way—” (Shuuto)

Shuuto shifted his gaze back to Sophia, as if he had something else to say.

Seeing him look at her like that, Sophia tensed up, probably thinking he was about to pick a fight again.

This girl sure has strong defense instincts, huh…

“You don’t have to thank us, but you should thank Kento, the coach, and Kujouin-san. They’ve been the ones working behind the scenes for you.” 

Shuuto said this while pointing at me with a smug look on his face.

To him, it was probably just stating the obvious.

But Sophia, who was on the receiving end of that, looked stunned.

And it wasn’t just her. Every single member of the team, except Kujouin-san, was shocked as well.

It was clear that Shuuto’s words had caught everyone by surprise.

It was a surprising turn of events, but I hoped this might help clear up some of the misunderstandings the team had about Shuuto… at least a little bit.

“I understand, I’ve already expressed my thanks…” (Sophia)

“Well, that’s fine then.” (Shuuto)

It seemed that Sophia’s response had satisfied Shuuto, and he gave a snort of amusement.

It looked like he wasn’t planning on saying anything more.

Afterward, Sophia gathered her thoughts and began speaking again—but I, unusually, shifted my gaze to the coach, who had been letting the team do whatever they wanted.

Normally, he would have intervened much earlier, so why had he been so passive?

As I pondered this, Sophia had finished speaking.

Then, after the coach jokingly warned us not to injure ourselves while trying to look cool, he gave the instructions for practice.

We all started warming up, but—

“Coach, aren’t you being a little too hard on Kento-kun…?” (Nadeshiko)

“No, no, I just want him to grow more. He’s the center of the team, so he needs to work on his mental strength and leadership.” (Coach)

“But it’s such an important time for him. Please don’t put too much pressure on him.” (Nadeshiko)

“Don’t worry, he’s not that soft. You know that as well as I do, right?” (Coach)

The coach replied, his voice full of confidence. From the way he was grinning, it was clear he was enjoying the conversation with Kujouin-san. Given the expression on his face, I couldn’t help but wonder if he was thinking of something troublesome, though I doubted he’d increase the intensity of the training at this point.

◆

“Good job. You holding up alright?” (Kento)

During the break, I called out to Sophia, who was focused on a piece of paper with Kujouin-san beside her. It seemed she was learning how to write up the score.

“Hmm, I’m not tired at all. I haven’t been doing anything physical.” (Sophia)

Sophia didn’t look up from the paper but answered me nonetheless.

From what I could tell, Kujouin-san had left the other managers to handle the drinks and equipment, while assigning Sophia tasks that required more mental effort. With more managers on the team, it seemed like they were distributing roles according to each person’s strengths.

…Honestly, though, I figured the real goal was to have more people capable of handling data and scoring.

Currently, even though I was helping with the data side, the only one among the managers who could do it effectively was Kujouin. It looked like none of the other managers had quite grasped how to write up the score yet.

To be honest, Kujouin-san’s burden is too heavy, so it’s good that Sophia joined.

Not to mention, Kujouin-san is good at managing people, and she keeps a proper eye on everything, so I trust she won’t push Sophia too hard.

Thanks to Kujouin-san, I can focus on practice without worrying about the kind of person who tends to overdo it.

Also, the fact that I don’t have to worry about Sophia causing any issues is because Kujouin-san is by her side.

Of course, I can never say that to her face.

“I know she’s very smart and quick to get things done, but she’s still new. We’ll teach her without rushing, so Kento-kun, you can relax.” (Nadeshiko)

“Yes, thank you. By the way, Sophia, do you think you’re getting along with the others?” (Kento)

It seems that Sophia had already met the other managers when she was spectating with Kujouin-san during the match, but whether she’s getting along with them is another matter.

However, Sophia turned away awkwardly when she heard my question, so it seems things aren’t going too well.

“Um… I talked with them a little, but I wouldn’t say things are going well.” (Sophia)

“Is it because you’re being careful with your words?” (Kento)

“Yeah.” (Sophia)

Sophia understands that there can’t be any fights within the club, so she’s trying to avoid provoking anyone and making an effort to be considerate.

However, this seems to make talking even harder for her.

That said, since she’s already gotten used to Kujouin-san, there’s no need to worry too much.

“I think this problem will fix itself over time, so Kujouin-san, please take care of Sophia until then.” (Kento)

“Hehe, Kento-kun, you’re quite a fine onii-san (older brother).” (Nadeshiko)

“You think so?” (Kento)

Feeling embarrassed, I scratched my cheek with my finger and gave a wry smile.

Indeed, from the outside, I probably look like a brother who’s overly concerned about his imouto.

In reality, Sophia does emanate a bit of a troublesome imouto aura, so it’s not entirely wrong.

Well, that’s what makes her cute.

“………” (Sophia)

Before I knew it, Sophia was looking at my face again, as if she wanted to say something.

However, as soon as our eyes met, she quickly looked away.

If she has something to say, she should just say it…

“Sophia—” (Kento)

“—Kento, you’re always talking to Shirakawa-san, that’s so unfair…!” (Shouta)

“—Huh!?” (Kento)

Suddenly, someone threw their arm around my shoulder from behind, and I was startled, turning to see who had done it.

I recognized the voice, but it seemed like Shouta was crying as he put his arm around me.

“Why are you crying…!?” (Kento)

“This is a cry of frustration…! You’re the only one getting all the attention…! I wanna talk to Shirakawa-san too…!” (Shouta)

I’m not exactly sure what’s going on, but this is probably what you’d call jealousy from a guy, right?

Since the match where Sophia joined, a lot more women have been coming up to talk to me, so maybe Shouta’s been holding a grudge about that.

“Isn’t it fine to talk normally…?” (Kento)

If I went at it too aggressively, Sophia would probably dislike it, but there shouldn’t be a problem with interacting casually.

“It’s not allowed, the coach didn’t let us…!” (Shouta)

“Eh?” (Kento)

“So, it’s forbidden…! The coach said not to talk to Shirakawa-san until she’s fully settled into the club…!” (Shouta)

It seems that some sort of restriction was put in place while I wasn’t aware of it.

“Is it just you, Shouta?” (Kento)

“It’s everyone in the club…! Why do I have to be the only one forbidden from doing it!?” (Shouta)

I thought only Shouta was being banned for aggressively approaching the girls, but it seems that isn’t the case.

That said, it’s odd that I didn’t know about this…

“After the game where Kento-kun hit three home runs, you went over to talk to Sophia-chan, right? After that, all the club members were gathered and told not to do it. Otherwise, everyone would want to talk to Sophia-chan, and it would cause a ruckus.” (Nadeshiko)

My confusion was quickly cleared up by Kujouin-san.

Once I had met the conditions, Sophia’s membership was already decided, so the coach probably took action right away.

Given that many club members would have tried to close the distance with Sophia, who had previously been difficult to approach, the coach’s decision wasn’t wrong.

Now it makes sense now why no one approached Sophia even though it was break time.

“Could it be that I’m also crossing a line?” (Kento)

“Of course not. If anything, Kento-kun, you should be supporting her.” (Nadeshiko)

I was worried, being a club member myself, but Kujouin-san laughed at me lightly, as if somewhat exasperated.

Since I live with Sophia as her brother, it would be strange for me not to talk to her, so perhaps that makes sense.

“Right, Kento is special…! I know that, but…!” (Shouta)

It seems Shouta understands that there’s no problem with me talking to Sophia, and he emphasized that point.

That said, it makes me wonder what his problem is.

“But still, isn’t it a bit much to act all lovey-dovey in front of everyone…!?” (Shouta)

“…… Huh?” (Kento)

What is this guy talking about?

I couldn’t help but think that, but Shouta looked completely serious.

“Well, isn’t that obvious? You two were talking so happily and seemed to be enjoying each other’s company…! And this morning, you were walking together like a couple…!” (Shouta)

Wait, what is Shouta even talking about?

I was actually talking to Kujouin-san, so there’s no way I was being lovey-dovey with Sophia, and this morning, we were just talking normally.

Is he seeing things? I was about to open my mouth to argue.

But then…

“~~~~~!” (Sophia)

For some reason, Sophia suddenly ran off.

Her profile, which I caught a glimpse of, seemed to be completely red.

“Wait, Sophia!? Where are you going!?” (Kento)

I called out to her, but Sophia didn’t even look back.

I had thought she was unusually quiet, but I didn’t expect her to run off like this.

“A-Ah, should I have not said that…?” (Shouta)

Shouta, thinking that Sophia must be angry and left because of him, suddenly turned pale.

Shouta seemed to lose all color from the unexpected situation.

It was definitely his words that caused it, but at the same time, it was Sophia’s overreaction, so I didn’t think it was something to blame him for.

At the very least, if it were her usual self, she would have just ignored it.

It was clear that something was off with her since the last match.

“Girls care about things like that, so you should think carefully before saying things like that.” (Kento)

I didn’t mean to scold him too harshly, but I had to warn him, just in case the same thing happened again.

“Ugh…!” (Shouta)

Surprisingly, Shouta, whose mental fortitude was fragile when it came to relationships, seemed to take my words to heart.

“Anyway, I need to go after Sophia. If she skips practice on her first day, it’ll affect everyone’s opinion of her.” (Kento)

I didn’t think she would actually leave, but there was still a possibility, so I had no choice but to chase after her.

However, if I didn’t return before practice resumed, there was a chance that, regardless of the coach, Shuuto might try to push Sophia out.

I couldn’t afford to waste too much time.

“Hmm, wait. I’ll go.” (Nadeshiko)

Just as I was about to run after her, Kujouin-san grabbed my hand.

It wasn’t surprising for her to act this way, given how caring she is…

“She’s my imouto, so I can’t trouble you with this, Kujouin-san…” (Kento)

“But right now, I’m the one in charge of Sophia-chan. Besides, things like this are usually easier for girls to talk about with each other, right?” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san tilted her head cutely and gave me a sweet smile.

She really was the kind of person who was always so kind.

But I couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to it than just that.

“Do you have an idea of what might be causing Sophia to act this strangely recently?” (Kento)

There was something in Kujouin-san’s words that piqued my interest, so I decided to ask her about it.

She had been with Sophia during practice, and it seemed like Sophia had started warming up to her. It was possible that she had confided something to her.

“Well, there is something that comes to mind.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san smiled a little awkwardly.

That smile… Could the cause of this be something related to Kujouin-san?

If that’s the case, I wasn’t sure whether it was okay to let her handle this.

However, until just earlier, Sophia didn’t seem to have any aversion to Kujouin-san. In fact, they had seemed to get along well during practice.

More than anything, I trusted Kujouin-san’s character, so it seemed best to leave this to her.

“Yeah, she might have something on her mind, so could you listen to her?” (Kento)

“Leave it to me.” (Nadeshiko)

Kujouin-san nodded with a beautiful smile and was about to rush off to follow Sophia.

“—Ah.” (Nadeshiko)

But then, it seemed like she had remembered something, and she stopped in her tracks.

She turned on her heel and looked at Shouta.

“Kannagi-kun, I understand you’re excited that Sophia-chan joined, but please think about your words and actions. If the coach finds out about what happened earlier, you’ll get in trouble.” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed that what Kujouin-san had remembered was a warning for Shouta.

Kujouin-san wasn’t someone who liked to reprimand others, especially not juniors, but it seemed that Shouta’s earlier behavior had crossed a line for her.

Well, considering that Sophia had run off because of it, it was understandable.

“I’ll be more careful…” (Shouta)

“Mm-hmm, if you calm down, I think you’ll find more girls will approach you. Do your best.” (Nadeshiko)

With that, Kujouin-san said, and this time, she really headed toward Sophia.

She knew exactly how to handle Shouta’s feelings gently, making sure not to hurt him too much. That was impressive.

Now, with any luck, Shouta would calm down…

“Wait, wait!? Does this mean…!? If I calm down, does that mean Kujouin-san will accept me as her boyfriend!?” (Shouta)

“…How did you get to that conclusion?” (Kento)

Even though he had just been told to calm down, Shouta excitedly blurted out something completely off the mark. I couldn’t help but ask for his reasoning.

“Well, think about it!? When she said ‘If you calm down, girls will talk to you,’ it means you’re attractive, and since Kujouin-san said that, it means she thinks I’m the kind of guy she likes when I’m calm, right!? So—!” (Shouta)

“That’s not how it works. If you take women’s words like that literally, all you’re doing is setting yourself up to get hurt.” (Kento)

If you’re someone with good communication skills, flattering the other person to improve their mood is a common tactic.

In fact, there are times when such compliments are subtly meant to convey the opposite—”I’m not interested in you.”

If you take those words too literally and believe them, it can end up causing embarrassment or trouble.

“But…!” (Shouta)

“Also, if you make a move on Kujouin-san, you’ll get on the bad side of the captain and others, right? In both senses.” (Kento)

Kujouin-san isn’t just the school’s Madonna; she’s also considered the idol of our club.

Naturally, many members are interested in her.

And, since relationships within the club are prohibited, making a move on her would cause trouble in more ways than one.

“I know that, but…!” (Shouta)

Even though I had warned him, Shouta didn’t seem ready to give up just yet.

I understand that it’s easy to get caught up in the idea when someone is as attractive as Kujouin-san, but…

“Well, even if you want to date Kujouin-san, make sure to confess after she retires.” (Kento)

Nine times out of ten, what Kujouin-san said earlier wasn’t romantic interest towards Shouta. However, if Shouta genuinely wanted to confess, there was no reason for me to stop him aside from the club’s rules.

Once Kujouin-san retires, making any romantic advances within the club would no longer be an issue, so he could go ahead if he wanted.

Whether they end up dating or not would be up to Shouta, and his responsibility.

That said, he gets excited every time he sees a pretty girl. Does he just want any beautiful girl?

I think he should pay more attention and get to know someone well before deciding to pursue them. It’s better to focus on one person and really go for it, but, well, it’s ultimately up to him.

Still… I’ll be keeping an eye on him to make sure he doesn’t make a move on Sophia.

◆

<Sophia’s PoV>

“What am I doing…?” (Sophia)

I had run away to the back of the school building where Kento-kun usually practices during lunch, and now I was holding my head in my hands, thinking about what I had just done.

Kento-kun had tried to talk to me, but not only could I not look him in the eye, I had acted so strangely…

And then, when I was called out for seeming like a couple, I ran away without thinking.

He and Nadeshiko-senpai must have thought I was weird, and even though it was just a break, I might get scolded for leaving the field.

On my first day, I had already made a bad impression.

“Maybe I shouldn’t have joined after all…?” (Sophia)

I had wanted to do my best for the club, but because of my feelings for Kento-kun, I ended up doing something that might have disrupted the club’s atmosphere.

Even if they called me a nuisance, I wouldn’t be able to deny it.

“――That’s not true.” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh…?” (Sophia)

I heard a soft, comforting voice from behind me, and I slowly turned around.

There stood Nadeshiko-senpai, smiling even though she was drenched in sweat.

“Hah… hah… I knew it was here… Sophia-chan, you’re amazing. I’m not good at sports, so I’m out of breath, but… you’re not even breathing heavily…” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed like Nadeshiko-senpai had chased after me this entire time.

When I had left Kento-kun and the others, I had slowed down, so I wasn’t that tired… but seeing her struggle like this made me feel bad.

“I-I’m sorry, it’s my fault…” (Sophia)

“You don’t have to apologize. I’m the one who followed you on my own.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai shook her head and approached me with a smile.

It didn’t seem like she was angry about me running off suddenly, but honestly, I was still scared that she might scold me.

However, she quickly erased that fear with a smile that was so kind and warm, it almost felt like a mother’s love.

“I’m sorry about Kannagi-kun. The coach had already warned him, but it seems like he couldn’t hold back his desire to talk to you.” (Nadeshiko)

“No, there’s no need for you to apologize…” (Sophia)

I hadn’t run away because I didn’t want to talk to Kannagi-kun or because I disliked what he did.

I was sure Nadeshiko-senpai could tell that much.

Even though she knew the reason I ran away, she tried to distract me with her words, apologizing as if to reassure me.

“Are Kento-kun and the others angry…?” (Sophia)

Since it’s still during club activities, even if it’s break time, I wondered if anyone might be upset about me leaving the field.

I asked hesitantly.

“No one’s angry, not at all.” (Nadeshiko)

“And the coach…?” (Sophia)

When it comes to situations like this, I imagined that the coach, as the person in charge of the club, would be the most likely to get angry.

He’s usually a kind older man, but I’d heard from Kento-kun that he can be strict about the club’s rules and training, so I thought he might be mad at me.

“Heh, you don’t need to be so scared. It’s true that the coach was away at the time, so he didn’t know about it, but he’s actually surprisingly broad-minded. He understands students’ situations, so as long as you come back and try to fit in with the team, it’s not a problem.” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed the coach wasn’t angry, so I let out a relieved sigh.

If I had been kicked out of the club on the first day, it wouldn’t have been funny, so I was really glad.

But—

“Well, how should I put it… Isn’t this a bit too lenient on me…?” (Sophia)

It feels strange to say this when I’ve been treated specially, but allowing me to leave the field freely until I get used to it seems like quite a generous arrangement for a top-tier team.

There’s a possibility that other members might start complaining, and more importantly, it would cause trouble if I just disappeared without notice.

So why…?

“I told you, the coach is someone who understands students’ situations. People have different personalities and circumstances, so if you treat everyone the same way, the team won’t function well. That’s why he’s flexible depending on the student, and to put it another way, the coach is someone who really takes the time to understand each individual. Of course, he’s careful not to let any sense of unfairness arise, though.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai said this with a smile and a wink.

In my case, it seems like the coach thinks that, since I haven’t been able to get along well with others in the past, it’s unlikely that I would suddenly adjust to group life right away.

Since I ended up running away like this, I couldn’t really argue with that.

I think that Nadeshiko-senpai staying with me is also part of the coach’s consideration.

“I’ll be careful not to cause any trouble…” (Sophia)

“No one thinks you’re a bother. I actually enjoy having you around, Sophia-chan.” (Nadeshiko)

“That can’t be true…” (Sophia)

“Are you saying that I’m lying?” (Nadeshiko)

I had said that thinking there was no way she wouldn’t find it troublesome, but Nadeshiko-senpai tilted her head with a smile.

It was a gentle smile without any pressure, but from her earlier words, I could see a certain sharpness to her.

With just one sentence, Nadeshiko-senpai had put me in a position where I had no choice but to admit that “Nadeshiko-senpai doesn’t think I’m a trouble and enjoys being with me.”

If I denied it any further, I’d be accusing her of lying.

It was a clever move, far more effective than continuing a pointless argument.

Considering when she brought up the no-dating rule earlier, I didn’t think she was just a kind, soft-hearted senpai.

—Of course, she wasn’t the type to put on a friendly face in public and secretly plot bad things behind the scenes either.

“I don’t think you’re lying…” (Sophia)

“I see, I’m glad. I really do enjoy being with you, Sophia-chan.” (Nadeshiko)

I couldn’t help but wonder what could possibly be so enjoyable about being with someone like me.

At the very least, even I wouldn’t want to be friends with me.

But now that I had acknowledged it, there was no way I could say anything to doubt it.

“I… don’t know what to do…” (Sophia)

Feeling that I couldn’t take up any more of Nadeshiko-senpai’s time, I decided to honestly share the troubles I was carrying.

Nadeshiko-senpai, still wearing her gentle smile, slowly opened her mouth.

“Is it about your relationship with Kento-kun?” (Nadeshiko)

As I thought, she seemed to understand.

She had seen us eat together during lunch breaks before I joined the club, so maybe it was just that I had been easy to read.

“Well… we’re siblings, but due to our parents’ remarriage, we’re actually siblings with no blood relation… But people, like Kannagi-kun earlier, sometimes see us as a couple… And that makes me worry that I might cause trouble for Kento-kun because of the club’s rules…” (Sophia)

I didn’t mention that I liked him, just the fact that I was troubled by the current situation.

If I were just acting normally, people wouldn’t see us as a couple just because we were step-siblings. But the more we got along and spent time together, the more we seemed to appear like a couple.

I personally didn’t want to quit the club, but more than that, I absolutely didn’t want Kento-kun to have to leave.

After all, he’s been working so hard at practice… If he were to leave because of me, I wouldn’t be able to face him.

“Sophia-chan, you’re really serious, aren’t you?” (Nadeshiko)

“Serious…?” (Sophia)

“Yeah. I don’t think there’s anyone else who’s thinking so deeply about club relationships as much as you.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai laughed as if it couldn’t be helped and gently took my hands in both of hers.

The unfamiliar skinship made me tense up.

“I’m sorry. It’s my fault you’re feeling troubled. Don’t worry… Even if there are rumors that you two are a couple, the coach won’t just believe the rumor. He’ll make sure to confirm the facts properly, and he’ll be very careful with something like a forced withdrawal. At least, there’s no way that you’d be forced to leave the club just because the rumors exist.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai seemed to trust the coach quite a lot.

It was true that in a club that was putting so much effort into training, there were promising players like Kurogane-kun and Kento-kun, and the coach would likely do everything he could to prevent anyone from quitting.

Above all, there was no way they could allow someone to be kicked out by mistake, and it wasn’t something that could be done lightly.

“So, is it really fine as long as we don’t acknowledge that we’re dating?” (Sophia)

That was the part I was most concerned about.

If we’re allowed to ignore it and not acknowledge it, then there would likely be many members secretly dating, which would defeat the purpose of the rules.

In that case, if it clearly appeared that we were dating, wouldn’t we be forced to leave the club even if we didn’t admit it?

That’s what I was afraid of.

“Well, if something like kissing was caught, that’d be a problem… But, as long as you’re not doing something like that, I think you’d be fine?” (Nadeshiko)

It seemed that I had been overthinking things. As long as no one caught us in a situation that could be conclusively judged as dating, there wouldn’t be an issue.

That being said, it did make me wonder if there were any members who were secretly dating.

“Well, I get what you’re saying, Sophia-chan. In our case, rumors are probably more likely to spread than for others, huh?” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai and I seemed to stand out, making us easy targets for rumors at school.

Just the other day, simply being together had caused a bit of a stir.

Naturally, if there was even a hint of a guy around, it would likely spark a rumor.

There was just no way it wouldn’t.

“That’s why this is my advice. If you let it bother you, people will think you’re being conscious of it, so just act normal. And if anyone brings it up, just say, ‘Of course we’re close, we’re siblings.’ That should be enough. On the other hand, if you keep obviously avoiding him like you are now, that’s actually more suspicious, you know?” (Nadeshiko)

With a playful wink, Nadeshiko-senpai said this and gently pressed her finger against my nose.

Even though there was only a one-year age difference between us, to me, she seemed so much more mature.

For a moment, a lot of the weight on my heart was lifted.

Not only did I receive advice, but she also gave me a good hint on how to avoid misunderstandings from those around me.

“Thank you, Nadeshiko-senpai. It really helped to have someone listen.” (Sophia)

“Don’t mention it. This is part of my job as a senpai. If you ever have any troubles or worries in the future, don’t hesitate to come to me, okay? I’m always happy to help.” (Nadeshiko)

With a playful tone, Nadeshiko-senpai said that before swiftly turning on her heel.

“Now then, shall we head back to the field? Kento-kun is waiting for you too.” (Nadeshiko)

With those words, she smiled innocently and extended her hand toward me.

Not only did she have the graceful and mature presence of a saint, but she also had this warm, childlike friendliness that made her so easy to approach. No wonder everyone adored her.

As I gazed at that radiant smile, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of admiration—she was such a bright and wonderful person.

---

Thanks for reading!

I felt like this was more of a build-up for Nadeshiko as a love interest more than anything. For a second, I thought that she maybe knew about Sophia’s feelings but I guess not.

Btw I just remembered that a couple of chapters ago, our MC mentioned a certain younger female cousin whom he hasn’t met in a while. Maybe that cousin is the new kouhai character we saw in the illustration.

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1. None

<Sophia’s PoV>

“Ugh… morning already…?” (Sophia)

Waking up to the sound of my phone’s alarm, I slowly opened my eyes.

A week had passed since the match that decided my entry into the club, and today was the day I had been eagerly waiting for—the day I would officially join.

Yet, even so, I couldn’t fully rejoice.

“The day has finally come… but I still don’t know how to act around Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

Yes, even though a week had passed since then, I had awkwardly developed a strained relationship with Kento-kun.

The reason was—there was a rule in the baseball club that prohibited romantic relationships within the club.

“Mou! Mou! Why is it that even though I have more time to spent together with him, things have gotten so complicated? I can’t even talk to him properly!” (Sophia)

I pouted and bumped my head into the pillow, venting my frustration.

If anyone found out that I liked Kento-kun, it would cause trouble for him.

Worse, if Kento-kun ever realized how I felt, he might start avoiding me.

So, I had to make sure neither Kento-kun nor anyone else found out about my feelings. But the problem was, I didn’t know how to do that.

—No, there was one thing I could do to achieve that.

I could treat him coldly and keep my distance, just like before.

But that would undoubtedly make him hate me.

Not to mention, after everything Kento-kun did to help me join the club, it would be like repaying his kindness with betrayal.

No matter how much I wanted to hide my feelings, it wasn’t something that I could forgive myself for doing.

In fact, if I had to go that far, it would be better to just quit the club altogether.

Of course, I had no intention of treating him coldly.

And so, without finding an answer, I arrived at this day.

“Starting today, we’ll be together at practice… but how am I supposed to act in front of everyone…?” (Sophia)

I couldn’t even hold a normal conversation with him at home anymore.

Because of that, I hadn’t gotten my usual daily head pats as a reward recently, and it felt like everything was going wrong one after another.

“If only there was a way to make sure no one misunderstood my feelings, or thought we were dating…” (Sophia)

If such a convenient solution existed, I wouldn’t be struggling like this.

---

Thanks for reading!

I got a heart attack thinking that she was gonna go back to being cold to MC just to cover up, but thank god she was smart enough to not go that route.

You know, Sophia, there is one solution. It starts with “Onii” and ends with “-chan”. It would be so funny to see everyone react to her calling MC that.

Also, from the looks of the illustrations, new kouhai and senpai characters? Maybe they’re the other managers.

Btw, there is also an extra chapter after the epilogue this time, and the chapter is called “The Moment the School Madonna Found Out About Love”. So, yeah. I kinda got spoiled while reaching the ToC so I’ll spoil you guys too lol.

---

1. None

---

Spoiler Warning Obviously…

---

“Ah, there he is!” (Girl)

“Shirakawa-kun, you were amazing!” (Girl)

As I stepped out of the stadium after the game, a group of girls from my school, who had apparently been waiting, called out to me.

“Seriously, hitting three home runs is insane!” (Girl)

“As expected of our cleanup hitter! I want your autograph!” (Girl)

—No, wait, before I knew it, I was completely surrounded.

What the… is this…?

“Whoa… isn’t that more than three times the usual number of fans?” (Team Captain)

“Damn it, why is it always Kento and Shuuto…!” (Shouta)

“Captain, I want to be surrounded by girls too…” (Team Vice-Captain)

Hearing my teammates’ voices, I glanced over and saw the vice-captain, the captain, and Shouta watching me with envious looks.

Shifting my gaze, I spotted Shuuto in a similar situation, surrounded by girls.

Well, for Shuuto, this was nothing new. He’d probably shoo them away himself anyway, so that wasn’t my concern… but why me too…?

Up until now, only three or four girls would come talk to me after a game…

“Uh… thank you for your support…” (Kento)

Since they had been cheering for me, I decided to at least express my gratitude.

The moment I did, high-pitched squeals erupted around me, which honestly freaked me out a little.

Seriously, what am I supposed to do here…?

“――Everyone, my apologies. He’s tired, so could you please let him go?” (Nadeshiko)

As I struggled with the unfamiliar situation, I heard Kujouin-san’s voice from behind the girls.

“Kujouin-san…” (Kento)

“But…”  (Girls)

Perhaps they couldn’t bring themselves to oppose Kujouin-san, as the girls suddenly fell silent.

With a gentle smile, Kujouin-san spoke again.

“Thank you for your support today. You’ll have plenty of chances to talk to him at school, so please feel free to approach him there.” (Nadeshiko)

With a flawless smile that left no room for argument, Kujouin-san effortlessly silenced the crowd.

Perhaps not wanting to be disliked by someone as popular as her at school, the girls quietly backed away.

…Isn’t her influence a little too strong…?

“You’re really popular, huh?” (Nadeshiko)

As the crowd of girls disappeared, Kujouin-san looked up at me with a slightly amused smile.

“It was so unexpected that I was caught off guard…” (Kento)

“It just means you’ve become a proper star player, Kento-kun. More importantly, your adorable imouto is waiting for you.” (Nadeshiko)

Saying that, Kujouin-san deliberately shifted her gaze in a certain direction.

Following her lead, I turned to look—and there, peeking out from behind the corner of a building, was Sophia.

…What is she doing…?

“Looks like she’s having trouble coming out because of the crowd. I’ll let the coach know, so go to her, okay?” (Nadeshiko)

“I appreciate the concern, but I can talk to her at home…” (Kento)

“I’m sure there’s something you two want to say to each other before the excitement of the game wears off, right?” (Nadeshiko)

I didn’t think there was any real need to talk right now, but Kujouin-san’s cheerful smile seemed to carry the unspoken message of “Stop complaining and just go already,” leaving me unable to argue back.

So, without protest, I headed toward Sophia.

“――Ah…” (Sophia)

As I reached her, Sophia averted her gaze uneasily, looking unsure of what to do.

She seemed awkward.

“Thanks for cheering me on. With this, Sophia, you’re officially the baseball team’s manager.” (Kento)

I wasn’t sure what was making her hesitate, but to make things easier, I spoke with a smile.

Hearing that, her expression softened into one of happiness.

She started twirling a strand of her hair between her fingers before slowly opening her mouth.

“I should be the one thanking you… This is all thanks to you, Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

“It’s because you worked hard, Sophia.” (Kento)

I had only helped a little. The reason she was able to join was because of her own hard work.

I shouldn’t let that go unnoticed.

If there hadn’t been any unnecessary interference, she would have been able to join the club through her own efforts alone.

――Can someone just deal with that homeroom teacher already?

As I was thinking about Kuzumine-sensei, Sophia suddenly fell silent.

She seemed off—restless, even.

Would it be better to give her some time?

We could always talk at home anyway.

“Sorry, I have to catch the bus. Let’s talk later at home.” (Kento)

I turned my back to her—

“W-Wait…” (Sophia)

She grabbed onto my sleeve from behind.

“Sophia?” (Kento)

Surprised that she was holding me back, I turned to look at her.

Sophia’s face turned bright red, and her teary eyes gazed up at me.

“I don’t want to let my feelings be noticed… so I’ll say it in English… Kento-kun, you were really cool today… And knowing that you worked hard for my sake made me really happy… Thank you so much…” (Sophia)

For some reason, she spoke in English despite not seeming flustered.

I understood the “Thank you” at the end, but… why English?

“Sorry, but could you say that in Japanese?” (Kento)

“…Sorry, I can’t.” (Sophia)

Curious about what she had said, I asked, but she simply shook her head with an awkward smile.

It seemed she had deliberately spoken in English so I wouldn’t understand.

“Did something happen?” (Kento)

Sophia sometimes acted strangely, but today felt different from her usual behavior.

When I asked, she simply shrugged.

“Now that I can be a manager, I feel like I can’t hold my emotions back… But more importantly, you have to go, right?” (Sophia)

She said that and gently pushed my back.

This really isn’t like her.

“It’s fine, I’m just thinking about what to do for now. I really, really appreciate everything you’ve done for me, Kento-kun.” (Sophia)

Sophia continued speaking as she pushed me forward.

I couldn’t see her face, but it felt like she was struggling with something again.

“If something’s on your mind, talk to me, okay…?” (Kento)

“I know. Right now, you’re the person I rely on the most, Kento-kun.” (Sophia)

I never expected Sophia, who usually isn’t so open, to say something like that.

That’s exactly why it felt strange—but after hearing her say that much, I couldn’t just brush it off.

“I see. Then feel free to continue relying on me anytime.” (Kento)

“Yes, I’ll do just that. Really, thank you.” (Sophia)

With those words, she let go of my back.

I turned around, wanting to see her expression, but she had already turned away, walking off as if avoiding the crowd.

…Seriously, what’s going on with her?

◆

<Sophia’s PoV>

A little over ten minutes earlier――

“Congratulations on joining the club, Sophia-chan.” (Nadeshiko)

After the game ended and Kento-kun spectacularly hit three home runs, Nadeshiko-senpai congratulated me.

Behind her, the three manager girls followed suit, offering their own congratulations one after another.

I bowed my head to thank everyone, trying to keep my cool, but inside, I was overjoyed.

After all, I had finally become a baseball team manager—something I had once given up on. Of course, I was happy. And more than that, I would now have even more time to spend with Kento-kun. That alone was enough to make my heart race.

From now on, our bond would grow even stronger――

“By the way… I didn’t really get a chance to bring this up earlier, so I might as well say it now.” (Nadeshiko)

While I was silently celebrating inside with my usual composed expression, Nadeshiko-senpai suddenly brought up something in a scary way.

At this point, what was she going to say…?

“Our baseball club has a no-dating policy… are you sure you’re okay with that?” (Nadeshiko)

“…Huh?” (Sophia)

For a moment, I couldn’t understand what she had just said.

Did I mishear her?

I must have misheard, right?

I could feel the sweat trickling down my back as I desperately prayed that I had misheard.

But――

“You see, since our baseball team is really strong, there are players who aim to be professionals in the future. Because of that, some girls try to become managers just to get close to them.” (Other Manager)

“Yeah, yeah. And since that could lead to unnecessary drama, the rule has been in place for a long time. It’s actually a pretty well-known fact at school.” (Other Manager)

“Kurogane-kun is really popular, but there aren’t many girls who aim to be managers because of that rule. Well, for us, we figured that if we got close as managers and built a connection, we’d have a better chance once they retired, so we went for it.” (Other Manager)

The three manager girls chimed in from behind Nadeshiko-senpai, hitting me with a harsh dose of reality.

What is this? No one told me about this…!

This is literally the first time I’m hearing about it…!?

And if it’s so famous, why have I not heard of it?!

“S-Speaking of which… what happens if someone breaks the rule…?” (Sophia)

With my throat dry, I somehow managed to squeeze out a question to Nadeshiko-senpai.

“If you break the rule, both the player and the manager have to leave the team… Ah, but as long as you’re not officially dating, it’s fine to hang out and stuff!” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai added that as if to soften the blow.

It did not soften the blow at all.

You’ve got to be kidding me…!?

I had always dreamed of being the baseball team’s manager, and I had been waiting for this moment for so long!

But now, after joining, there’s a no-dating rule!?

Does that mean if I want to be a manager, I can’t date Kento-kun…!?

――I suddenly felt the overwhelming urge to withdraw from the team immediately.

But of course, after working so hard and receiving so much support from various people—especially from the person I loved—I couldn’t just quit now.

More than that, now that I had finally gotten my hopes up, there was no way I could give up on joining so easily.

So at the very least――

Why is this happening to meeeeeeeeee!?

――I could only scream inside my heart.

Yeah, I wanted to cry.

---

Thanks for reading!

Oh…

The fact that she was only told of this after she joined is kinda cruel cause now she doesn’t have a way out.

I’m also 100% confident Nadeshiko doesn’t know much about love, otherwise, she would have probably noticed Sophia’s feelings and told her before the match and everything.

From what I’ve read, Sophia starts calling MC “onii-chan” to disguise her getting close to him as just sibling love.

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1. None

---

Ignore my lack of baseball knowledge.

And also:
Kurogane is Shuuto’s last name
Kannagi is Shouta’s last name

---

<Sophia’s PoV>

Finally, the day has come for the match that will determine my admission to the club.

Since today’s match was extremely important to me, I asked my mother for permission to take the day off her lessons.

I believed that Kento-kun would surely come through, and yet, I couldn’t completely shake off my anxiety.

“—Ah, Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

As I walked down the hallway, I spotted Kento-kun at the entrance, putting on his shoes. Without thinking, I called out to him.

“Hmm? What’s wrong?” (Kento)

Even though he was about to head off to the match, Kento-kun seemed as calm as ever, showing no signs of nervousness.

He exuded the reassuring presence of a seasoned player.

“Did you forget anything?” (Kento)

I tried my best to suppress the overwhelming anxiety, consciously offering him a cute smile.

Once the match began, there would be nothing more I could do, so I wanted to be of some help to him now, even if just a little.

“Yeah, I’m good. Sophia, you’re coming with our parents, right?” (Kento)

“To the venue, yes… But I feel a bit out of place mixing in with them, so once we get there, I plan to split off from them.” (Sophia)

I wasn’t great at blending in with adults, and the thought of standing out as someone carrying a different atmosphere made me uneasy.

Our school would likely win today’s match without any trouble.

If I looked too serious while everyone else seemed calm, I would definitely attract attention.

“I see… Oh, by the way, Kujouin-san said to contact her once you arrive at the venue.” (Kento)

“Nadeshiko-senpai did? But isn’t she supposed to be on the bench?” (Sophia)

She had been on the bench during the summer tournament, and she had also been there for the autumn district preliminaries. Naturally, I assumed she would be on it for this match as well.

However—Kento-kun shook his head.

“Kujouin-san won’t be on the bench for today’s match.” (Kento)

“Huh? Why not…?”  (Sophia)

“She said she wants to cheer together with you.” (Kento)

“Ah…” (Sophia)

As Kento-kun shrugged with a resigned smile, I held my breath.

Nadeshiko-senpai must have assumed that I would end up watching the match alone, lost in my thoughts.

She was being considerate so that wouldn’t happen.

“Whether you contact her or not is up to you, Sophia, but if you don’t mind, you should let her know your choice.” (Kento)

Just as Kento-kun said, I wasn’t obligated to reach out just because I had arrived at the venue.

If I wanted to watch the match alone, I could simply choose not to contact her.

But doing that… would be betraying a senpai who had done so much for me.

“Yes, I’ll make sure to contact her.” (Sophia)

The old me might have chosen not to.

But now, I wanted to face Nadeshiko-senpai properly and repay her kindness.

“Thanks. Well then, I’m heading out.” (Kento)

“Ah—wait…” (Sophia)

Just as Kento-kun opened the door to leave, I instinctively reached out toward him.

Even though there was nothing I could do to stop him.

“Sophia?” (Kento)

“Sorry… It’s nothing…” (Sophia)

I quickly let go of the fabric of his shirt that I had grabbed.

There was a set meeting time, so what was I even doing?

He needed to focus on the match. That was what mattered most right now.

“…Hey, Sophia.” (Kento)

Hearing my name, I lifted my gaze.

“Will you tell me to do my best?” (Kento)

“Eh?” (Sophia)

“I feel like I can really give it my all if you say something.” (Kento)

Kento-kun gave a rare, bashful smile.

Maybe… he had noticed how I was feeling.

A sudden wave of embarrassment surged through me, but I swallowed it down.

This was the last thing I could do for him before the match.

“Do your best, Kento-kun. And make sure to hit three home runs.” (Sophia)

With the biggest smile I could muster, I sent him off.

◆

“—Ah, there you are! Hey, Sophia-chan~!” (Nadeshiko)

When I arrived at the match venue and was waiting near the vending machines, Nadeshiko-senpai spotted me and waved at me.

Behind her, three girls followed, all dressed in baseball club support attire.

“Good afternoon, Nadeshiko-senpai.” (Sophia)

I bowed and greeted her.

That alone seemed to stir the three girls behind her.

It was probably rare for them to see me bow.

“Good afternoon, how are you? Isn’t it hot?” (Nadeshiko)

“The sunlight is bright, but the heat is fine.” (Sophia)

Considering it was October, the temperature was higher than expected, but since I was wearing a hat, I didn’t think I needed to worry about heatstroke.

I also made sure to bring drinks to stay hydrated.

“Good to hear. Well then, let me introduce you to these girls.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai called out to the three girls who had been hiding behind her, urging them to come forward.

As a result, all three of them timidly stepped up in front of me.

…I recognized all of them. They were the girls I had casually brushed off in the past, so it was no surprise that they looked nervous.

It’s true that you can’t completely separate the things you’ve done in the past from the present.

Lately, I’ve been regretting a lot of things since then.

The three of them were also managers and introduced themselves one by one, and I made sure to remember both their faces and names right away.

I wouldn’t forget them again, and I wouldn’t act cold toward them either.

From now on, I plan to make an effort to get along with them.

Once their introductions were finished, it was my turn.

I took a deep breath, being careful not to speak too quickly, and opened my mouth.

“I’m Sophia Shirakawa, a first-year in the Special Preparatory Course. I look forward to working with you.” (Sophia)

It was a simple greeting, but I wanted them to get to know me not just through words, but by spending time with me.

I felt that approach suited me better since I wasn’t very good with words.

If only I had better communication skills, maybe I could have bonded with them right then. Unfortunately, my abilities in that area were disastrously low, and before long, they had started distancing themselves from me.

As expected, reality wasn’t as smooth as I had hoped.

And it wasn’t just the students from our school who were staring at us…

“Whoa!? Those girls are way too cute, right?!” (Other Student)

“Hey, go talk to them!” (Other Student)

“No way, you go!” (Other Student)

Students from other schools were also watching us.

The match hadn’t even started yet, but I was already feeling really uncomfortable.

“Try not to mind it, okay? Boys like that are everywhere.” (Nadeshiko)

Having gone through similar experiences herself, Nadeshiko-senpai must have sensed how I was feeling.

She gently smiled and took my hand, leading me away.

She guided me to a spot where I could see the batter more clearly.

“After all, it’s better to be able to see Kento-kun, right?” (Nadeshiko)

“Yes… Thank you…” (Sophia)

I truly respected how thoughtful she was. She was a senpai I could genuinely admire.

Her face was incredibly cute, always wearing a gentle smile, and her voice was pleasing to the ear. Her figure was great too—maybe Kento-kun liked this kind of person…?

From my perspective as a girl, Nadeshiko-senpai was so perfect it almost felt unfair.

I’m jealous…

“Hmm? Why are you staring at my face like that?” (Nadeshiko)

Though I had been glancing at her from the side, it seemed she noticed because I had been looking for a while.

She tilted her head with a puzzled expression, and even that gesture was cute and unfair.

“I thought you were cute, and I was a little jealous…” (Sophia)

“Ahaha… I don’t know how I feel hearing you say that, Sophia-chan…” (Nadeshiko)

I had just said what was on my mind, but Nadeshiko-senpai laughed awkwardly.

It was truly how I felt, though…

“Shirakawa-san, you’re ridiculously cute, after all…” (Nadeshiko)

“But, Kujouin-senpai, you’re ridiculously cute too!” (Sophia)

“You know, I actually envy you quite a bit, Sophia-chan. Really.” (Nadeshiko)

She said it with a certain implication, but I couldn’t quite figure out what there was to envy about me.

As a British person, I did stand out among the Japanese, but standing out also meant attracting unwanted attention.

I was also more likely to face discrimination, so I honestly thought being like Nadeshiko-senpai—Japanese and stunningly beautiful—would be much better.

Her chest was also just naturally bigger than mine.

…I wish I was like that.

“—It’s about to start.” (Nadeshiko)

Seeing the players finish their pre-game warm-up, Nadeshiko-senpai murmured.

“It looks like we’re batting second. The pitcher… is Kurogane-kun, right?” (Sophia)

After looking at the name on the electronic scoreboard, I asked her.

If we win today, there will be another game tomorrow, so it’s unusual for Kurogane-kun to be pitching against a mid-tier school.

“Kurogane-kun insisted on pitching himself so that Kento-kun could focus on batting as much as possible.” (Nadeshiko)

There was probably some debate about it.

Nadeshiko-senpai smiled in a way that suggested she had already resigned herself to the situation.

Kurogane-kun… I had thought he was the type who only cared about himself, but I guess I was wrong.

He was willing to step up for Kento-kun’s sake.

“But if we win today, we’ll be facing a powerhouse team next, won’t we…?” (Sophia)

“Well, either way, Kurogane-kun can’t carry the entire tournament by himself. Even against a strong team, our second and third pitchers will have to take the mound at some point. I’m sure Kento-kun will do his best to lead the team and make it work.”” (Nadeshiko)

If I remember correctly, our school’s coach is a former professional baseball pitcher who retired due to an injury.

Using his bitter experience, he’s made it a policy to avoid overworking a single pitcher, no matter how talented they are, so that no one has to go through the same thing he did.

When I was choosing a school, I made sure to research not only the players who were currently attending or rumored to join, but also the coach, so I’m certain about this.

…Come to think of it, that coach used to be on the same team as my father, didn’t he…?

I don’t remember much…

Even though he was apparently an amazing player in his prime, it’s strange, isn’t it?

If he had such a bold personality, I thought I would never forget someone like that after meeting them just once.

Well, I was rarely allowed to go to the stadium since it would interfere with work, so maybe that’s why I don’t remember.

“More importantly, let’s focus on this game. This match is incredibly important for us as well.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai was right.

Winning this game is a given—what truly matters is whether Kento-kun can hit three home runs.

“What’s the pitcher like for today’s opponent?” (Sophia)

Ever since entering high school, I had been too busy with my own studies to follow anything beyond our school’s game results and the records of powerhouse schools aiming for Koshien.

When it came to mid-tier schools and their aces, especially with a new team, I had no idea.

“He’s a control pitcher with great accuracy. His fastball speed is average, but he can precisely place his pitches on the outside low or inside low corners, which makes him tricky to handle. But he only has two breaking balls—a forkball and a curveball—so at the very least, our regulars should be able to start hitting him in the later innings.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai seemed to have all the data on the opposing team memorized and quickly explained everything to me.

Indeed, if the pitcher’s strength is his control, then a team full of excellent hitters would likely be able to figure him out by the later innings, even if he’s throwing accurately. Especially the top batters—I’d bet they’d be able to hit well from the start.

But—

“If his control is that good, then he’s not likely to make many mistakes, right…?” (Sophia)

Just because a pitcher’s fastball isn’t overpowering doesn’t mean it’s easy to hit—if he can place it in difficult spots, it could still be tough.

If the batters could sit on just the fastball, that would be one thing, but if he mixed in his curve and forkball well, it might put Kento-kun at a disadvantage—especially since he needed to hit home runs.

—Or so I thought.

“If he doesn’t make mistakes, that just means he’ll throw exactly where he intends to. Kento-kun is the type of batter who reads the pitcher’s sequences, so this matchup is actually really good for him.” (Nadeshiko)

So, it turned out that because of the pitcher’s control, Kento-kun would actually have an easier time.

Now that I thought about it, it made sense. It’s easier to hit a pitch when you expect it and it comes exactly where you anticipated—rather than having a wild pitcher accidentally throw something completely different.

Kento-kun had sharp eyes and rarely mis-hit the ball.

“He can hit three home runs, right…?” (Sophia)

“Of course. He analyzed the opposing battery more than usual, and his batting skills are top-notch. More than anything, I’m really looking forward to this game.” (Nadeshiko)

As always, Kujouin-senpai spoke gracefully, yet there was a hint of excitement in her voice.

It felt like she knew something I didn’t, and that piqued my curiosity.

“Is there something special about this game?” (Sophia)

“Kento-kun has always prioritized the team’s victory over his own performance. If it’s not necessary, he doesn’t aim for home runs. Instead, he thinks about how to score points with minimal risk and keep the game moving forward. That’s how he bats. That’s why I want to see how brightly his talent shines when he’s put in a situation where he has no choice but to hit a home run.” (Nadeshiko)

Watching Kujouin-senpai speak with such joy, I realized something.

I had already suspected it, but she probably—liked Kento-kun.

In a romantic way, too.

I wondered… was she really okay with me joining the team?

“—Really, Kujouin-senpai, you get so talkative when it comes to Shirakawa-kun.” (Other manager)

“You’re usually so graceful and gentle, but when it comes to Shirakawa-kun, you get so passionate while talking about him~” (Other manager)

The other managers must have been thinking the same thing as I was.

Grinning, they started teasing Nadeshiko-senpai.

“T-That’s not it! I always tell you that…! I was just answering because I was asked…!” (Nadeshiko)

For once, Nadeshiko-senpai’s face turned red as she desperately tried to argue back.

Although she had the strong impression of being calm and composed, but at the end of the day, she was a girl our age, just like me.

…She’s kind of cute.

“Come on, it’s our turn! Stand up, stand up…!” (Nadeshiko)

When it was Seijou High School’s turn to bat, Nadeshiko-senpai urged us to get up.

It was probably because we needed to cheer, but I had a feeling she was just trying to hide her embarrassment.

The first batter for Seijou High was Kannagi-kun.

He was always with Kento-kun and had a reputation for being a bit of a jokester.

However, his batting average was on par with Kento-kun’s, making him a solid contact hitter with no apparent weak spots.

“He’s Seijou High’s lead-off hitter. Unfortunately, he can’t take on the role of a decoy, but his high on-base percentage ignites our offense.” (Nadeshiko)

The decoy’s role is to assess the opposing pitcher’s condition—whether their fastball has good velocity, the types of breaking balls they throw, how much they break, and so on—by stepping up to the plate and observing.

They deliberately make the pitcher throw more pitches, and it’s often the job of the first batter in the lineup.

But it seemed Kannagi-kun wasn’t assigned that role.

…Well, he doesn’t seem suited for it.

Even so, being entrusted as the leadoff batter meant that his on-base percentage was so high that it more than made up for his lack of ability as a decoy.

“—He hit it!” (Sophia)

With a sharp crack, Kannagi-kun’s ball shot through the gap between third and short.

He reached first base with ease.

He’s really fast.

“He’s so reliable, isn’t he?” (Nadeshiko)

With the leadoff batter safely on base, Nadeshiko-senpai nodded in satisfaction.

She was usually graceful and quiet, but when it came to baseball, her excitement rose, making her seem like a completely different person.

It was fun to watch.

“Think he’ll run?” (Sophia)

“They’re probably keeping an eye on him, but he’ll most likely go for it.” (Nadeshiko)

Just as Nadeshiko-senpai predicted, the opposing pitcher threw a pickoff attempt to first base. However, he couldn’t catch Kannagi-kun, forcing him to focus back on the batter.

The moment it became clear that no more pickoff attempts were coming, Kannagi-kun easily stole second base.

“Getting run on like that must be frustrating for the pitcher. It messes with their focus and disrupts their rhythm.” (Nadeshiko)

Yeah, having someone constantly moving behind you would definitely be annoying.

Kannagi-kun always had that smug grin on his face too, which probably made it even more infuriating.

“They’re going to bunt him over to third, huh?” (Sophia)

“Even if Kento-kun has his own goals to meet, the team’s priority is winning. The next batter is Kurogane-kun, and Kento-kun is up after him. Our go-to strategy is to secure at least one run between the two of them.” (Nadeshiko)

Kurogane-kun, the ace pitcher, wasn’t just skilled at throwing—he was also an exceptional batter.

His batting average ranked third, right after Kannagi-kun, and in terms of extra-base hits, he was on par with Kento-kun.

He had hit several home runs too, making him one of those infuriatingly talented, all-rounder types.

…Honestly, it was a little irritating.

Why was God so unfair?

The second batter effortlessly laid down a bunt, advancing the runner, and the third batter, Kurogane-kun, casually hit a clean single, allowing Kannagi-kun to make it home.

“First point…!” (Sophia)

With the score on the board, the team erupted in excitement—but I couldn’t focus on that.

Kento-kun’s first at-bat was finally here.

“—Yeah, he’s in the zone and focused.” (Nadeshiko)

Even from a distance, Nadeshiko-senpai could tell what kind of condition Kento-kun was in.

She wore a smug expression, as if she knew exactly what was coming.

While Kento-kun stepped up to the plate, his gaze never left the pitcher.

The opposing team was clearly on high alert against him.

The first pitch was a forkball, but it was outside the strike zone, aka a ball.

Next came a curveball, but that too was a ball.

With the count at 0-2, things weren’t looking great. But maybe he was deliberately letting the count get worse because he was confident he could still get a strike when needed.

That said, a 0-3 count would be risky.

Expecting the pitcher to aim for a strike here, I watched closely—and my prediction was right. The pitcher threw a fastball into the strike zone.

—However, Kento-kun didn’t swing.

“That pitch… Kento-kun could have hit it, right…?” (Sophia)

If even I could predict that a strike was coming, then Kento-kun surely saw it too.

The pitch wasn’t too fast for him to hit, so why didn’t he go for it?

“Yeah. With a 0-2 count, it’s standard for the pitcher to go for a strike, and based on data, the opposing battery usually throws a strike in this situation. Normally, Kento-kun would have gone for it. But since they still had one more ball to spare, the pitcher aimed for a tough spot. It looked like a good pitch, but Kento-kun probably wasn’t certain he could turn it into a home run—so he let it go.” (Nadeshiko)

I see, so that’s why he didn’t swing.

Basically, rather than just going for a hit, he was only swinging at pitches he was sure he could turn into a home run.

This was Kento-kun under the restriction that he had to hit a home run.

After that, Kento-kun carefully selected his pitches, taking balls and working the count to full.

If the pitcher threw a ball, Kento-kun would get a walk. But if he took a strike, it would be over.

Carefully waiting for the perfect pitch to hit a home run had backed him into a corner.

“Kento-kun…” (Sophia)

I clasped my hands together and closed my eyes, as if in prayer.

In baseball, you never know how many at-bats you’ll get. Yet, he was aiming to hit three home runs.

Getting one in his first at-bat would be huge.

Please… hit it…

“—It’s fine. This is all going exactly as Kento-kun planned.” (Nadeshiko)

“Huh?” (Sophia)

As I kept my eyes tightly shut, I felt a hand gently rest on my shoulder.

When I looked up, Nadeshiko-senpai met my gaze with a warm, confident smile.

“Just watch. Kento-kun is going to hit the next pitch for a home run.” (Nadeshiko)

“Eh—” (Sophia)

The moment I hesitated at Nadeshiko-senpai’s words, the sharp, crisp sound of the bat echoed through the air.

“It’s innnnnnn!” (Other managers)

I hadn’t been watching, so I didn’t see where the ball went.

Since I hadn’t been watching, I couldn’t track the ball’s flight, but from the managers’ loud cheers, I understood that the ball had gone into the stands.

Looking over, I saw that the fielders at each base had stepped aside, and the base umpire was making a wide circular motion with his right hand above his head.

Meanwhile, Kento-kun was leisurely jogging around the bases.

Just as Nadeshiko-senpai had predicted, Kento-kun had hit a home run.

“How…?” (Sophia)

I couldn’t help but wonder how she had known and turned to look at Nadeshiko-senpai.

Noticing my gaze, she let out a small, resigned smile and shrugged.

“Sorry, I made you miss it.” (Nadeshiko)

“Ah, no… I would have closed my eyes either way…” (Sophia)

Even if she hadn’t spoken to me, I wouldn’t have seen Kento-kun’s home run as my eyes were closed from praying.

“The opposing ace, you know, has given up almost zero walks so far. Do you know what that means?” (Nadeshiko)

“That means he has good control, right…?” (Sophia)

“Even if someone has good control, having almost zero walks is extremely rare. Even Kurogane-kun gives up a few every now and then. Now, what if I told you that there’s also data showing he often gives up hits when the count is 2-3?” (Nadeshiko)

“Ah…! That means he’s aiming for the strike zone, right…?” (Sophia)

“Exactly.” (Nadeshiko)

My answer seemed to be correct, as Nadeshiko-senpai gave me a playful wink.

Because of his excellent control, the opposing pitcher might be extremely afraid of giving up walks.

So when he reached a situation where he couldn’t afford another ball, even though he had the batter cornered, he became too focused on throwing a strike and ended up pitching into an easy-to-hit zone.

Since his ability to suppress batters relied entirely on his control, if he threw a pitch over the plate in a bad spot, it was bound to get hit.

“Kento-kun was aiming for that from the start…” (Sophia)

“Of course, if an easy pitch had come earlier, he would’ve gone for it. But since the pitcher was deliberately aiming for the edges, it shows he’s a skilled player.” (Nadeshiko)

A skilled player, huh…

“Then shouldn’t he just avoid getting into a three-ball count in the first place…?” (Sophia)

If he was prone to throwing hittable pitches in a full count, wouldn’t it be better to prevent the situation from reaching that point?

Up until then, he had been successfully keeping batters in check.

“The catcher probably hasn’t noticed this habit of the pitcher.” (Nadeshiko)

“…Really?” (Sophia)

“Yeah. He’s been calling pitches in a way that keeps leading the count to full. That’s why I think he hasn’t caught on. You’d be surprised how often people miss things like this. Well, Kento-kun figured it out after just watching a little bit of the data and game footage, though.”(Nadeshiko)

While Nadeshiko-senpai proudly brought up Kento-kun in passing, I couldn’t help but think—wasn’t she a little too fond of him?

As I debated whether to tease her about it, our fifth and sixth batters were quickly retired.

Even though the opposing pitcher had given up a three-run homer in the very first inning, he hadn’t crumbled under pressure. He really might be a solid player.

“At least we got one on the board…” (Sophia)

If Kento-kun hit two more home runs, we would win.

I let out a small sigh of relief—until I noticed Nadeshiko-senpai’s expression.

“Yeah, that’s true, but… three runs in the first inning, huh… This might be bad…” (Nadeshiko)

Her face was unusually serious.

As the game went on, Kurogane-kun threw fastballs relentlessly, striking out batter after batter.

Pure power pitching.

Normally, he relied on controlled pitching to induce groundouts and flyouts, but today he was going all out.

Unfortunately, our offense wasn’t holding up as well. The bottom of our lineup struggled, and one by one, they were taken down by the opposing pitcher.

I could see Nadeshiko-senpai watching them with a look of pity, muttering, “They’re going to get drilled in practice again…”

Judging by her tone, they’d already been through some brutal training before.

And just like that, Kento-kun’s turn at bat came around again in the third inning.

Just like in the first inning, Kannagi-kun got on base. The second batter, seeing the point gap, went for a hit, and though he made perfect contact, the ball flew straight at the opposing shortstop, leading to an unfortunate out.

Then, Kurogane-kun hit a triple, adding another run, which brought us to the current moment.

“Do you think he’ll do the same thing in his second at-bat?” (Sophia)

“Hmm… I don’t think the opposing battery is going to throw him a fastball this time.” (Nadeshiko)

The pitch Kento-kun hit for a home run earlier was a fastball.

To avoid the same mistake, they might try to hold him off with breaking balls.

They probably misunderstood from the last at-bat, thinking that he wouldn’t be able to hit breaking balls.

“I bet he’s going to swing at the first pitch.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai made another prediction.

I was curious whether she’d be right again, but more importantly, I wasn’t going to miss seeing him hit a home run this time. I fixed my eyes on him, watching with all my might.

And the result—

“It’s in agaaaaaaain!!” (Other managers)

—Just as Nadeshiko-senpai said, Kento-kun swung at the first pitch and sent the ball flying into the stands.

Senpai, you’re kind of scary.

“How did you know this time…?” (Sophia)

“Ahaha… You don’t have to look at me like that. It’s simple.” (Nadeshiko)

Simple? What part of this is simple?

“The opposing pitcher has a fastball, a curveball, and a forkball. But since his fastball got turned into a home run last time, he’s hesitant to throw it. That leaves the curveball or forkball. But Kurogane-kun is on third base, so if the catcher fails to catch the ball and it gets away, that’s another run. That makes the forkball risky to throw in this situation. That’s why Kento-kun knew the first pitch would be a curveball.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai explained it thoroughly, using her fingers to illustrate each point.

She always says she doesn’t study much, but honestly, I was starting to suspect she secretly stays up all night studying. Or maybe she’s just naturally this smart.

Also… she knows way too much about Kento-kun. It’s kind of terrifying.

“I think the first pitch could’ve been a ball too, though…” (Sophia)

“Kento-kun completely saw through the balls in his last at-bat, right? If they can’t get a strike, they have no choice but to aim for the edges of the zone—that’s probably what the battery was thinking. Well, all of this was something Kento-kun told me beforehand anyway.” (Nadeshiko)

Just as I was feeling a little… unnerved by Nadeshiko-senpai, she snapped a wink at me again.

So she knew all this because Kento-kun had already explained it to her.

…So, Kento-kun is the terrifying one?

“Then, does that mean everything is going exactly as Kento-kun planned…?” (Sophia)

“Yeah, since the plan hasn’t fallen apart. Of course, if something unexpected happens, we’ll adjust it, but… we analyzed everything thoroughly for you, Sophia-chan. It’s not that easy for the plan to break down.” (Nadeshiko)

—Correction. They were both terrifying.

What is this baseball team? A bunch of monsters?

Are all powerhouse schools like this…?

I felt like I had just witnessed firsthand the true horror of elite-level teams.

But… knowing they did all this for me made me really happy.

The game continued, and by the end of the third inning, we had a five-run lead. Because of that, at the top of the fourth, Kurogane-kun moved to right field.

The player who had been in right field shifted to left, and the left fielder was taken out, making way for a new pitcher.

Since Kurogane-kun was also one of the core hitters in the cleanup lineup, they couldn’t just bench him, but they were probably trying to save his arm and stamina.

The second pitcher, a second-year student, took the mound and began warming up calmly.

“People say that outside of Kurogane-kun, Seijou High’s pitching staff is pretty thin…” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai murmured as she watched her teammate practice on the mound, seeming lost in thought.

“I don’t think that’s true at all. Kurogane-kun is amazing, but the second- and third-year pitchers who are entrusted with those roles are very skilled, too. In fact, since Kento-kun has been behind the mask, no one has allowed any runs in an official match.” (Nadeshiko)

I knew that the second-year pitchers didn’t get great evaluations from others.

Well, it wasn’t just the pitching staff.

There weren’t any standout players from the second-year class who had competed nationally during middle school, and some even said it was a year of underperforming talent.

But whether that assessment was correct or not would be decided from this fall onward—now that it’s their year.

Personally, I didn’t have any particular attachment to them, and since they were one grade above me, I didn’t have any strong opinions on the “underperforming” label they were given.

However—

When the news spread that Kurogane-kun decided to attend Aoshi High School, it seemed like many promising players gathered in the first-year class, yet six out of the nine starting players were second-years.

Even the bench was filled with more second-years than first-years.

That must be the second-years’ determination to prove themselves against the notion of being a class with few promising prospects.

At the very least, Coach Hijima is well-known for his meritocratic approach, so I didn’t think it was out of sentimentality.

And when people carry that kind of determination, I believe they’ll make something happen.

“I really hope they make it to Koshien…”

I didn’t know much about them beyond their results and what happened during games, but I wanted those who worked hard to be rewarded.

They had fought a close battle in the summer finals, only to suffer a heartbreaking defeat. Seeing the third-years in tears made me feel this even more strongly.

“This time, we’re going to Koshien for sure. That’s why we need your help too, Sophia-chan.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai smiled as she placed her hand over mine.

I wasn’t even officially part of the team yet, and even if I did join, I wasn’t sure what I could do—but for these people, I wanted to do whatever I could.

More than anything, I wanted to go to Koshien—for myself and for the person I loved.

“Do you really think I can be of help…?” (Sophia)

“Sophia-chan, you’re really smart, so I have high hopes for you! Seijou High—or rather, Kento-kun, our core player on both offense and defense, relies heavily on data. Whether we can compile precise data or not has a huge impact on winning or losing. Right now, it’s just Kento-kun and me handling it, but if you help us, that would be amazing!” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai beamed at me with a warm smile.

Data analysis… That really did sound like something I could be good at.

More than anything, being able to support Kento-kun made me incredibly happy.

From what I had heard earlier, he didn’t just rely on data for calling plays as a catcher but also used it to improve his batting. That meant it was really crucial.

I had to do my best. Absolutely.

If things continued like this, this would be Kento-kun’s last guaranteed at-bat.

“I’ll do my best to be of help.” (Sophia)

“Yeah, I’m counting on you. For that, we need Kento-kun to give it his all too.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai nodded with a smile before shifting her gaze back to the field. I followed suit, returning my focus to the game.

The match continued to progress in a completely one-sided manner.

In the fourth inning, with the bases loaded in front of Kurogane-kun, he hit a grand slam. Given his talent, which was said to be capable of making an impact globally, he was already a monster at this stage.

“Now it’s a nine-run lead… Kento-kun, you’re running out of chances…” (Nadeshiko)

Before I knew it, Nadeshiko-senpai had clasped her hands tightly together as if in prayer.

It took me a second to grasp what she meant—until I realized the significance of that nine-run difference.

“Oh… the mercy rule…” (Sophia)

In this tournament, the rule was set at a ten-run lead after five innings.

Since Seijou High was playing as the home team, if they ended the fourth inning with a ten-run lead and the opposing team couldn’t close the gap by the end of the fifth, the game would be called without playing the bottom of the inning.

If the current nine-run lead remained at the end of the fourth, and Seijou High scored just one more in the fifth, the game would end before Kento-kun got another turn at-bat.

At this rate, the only guaranteed chance for him to bat was now.

If he didn’t get a hit here, Kento-kun might not get another turn at bat.

And I had a feeling I knew why Nadeshiko-senpai looked so uneasy.

I wanted it to be nothing more than an unnecessary worry, but reality was—

“Ball!” (No idea who said all this)

“Ball!”

“Ball!”

“Ball four!”

Kento-kun ended up drawing a walk.

It wasn’t an intentional walk.

If they had intended to walk him, they could have just declared an intentional base on balls.

But after getting hit for two home runs, that pitcher probably lost the ability to throw a strike against Kento-kun.

“In this case… what happens to the promise?” (Sophia)

The game wasn’t over yet.

As long as our team didn’t score one more run, the mercy rule wouldn’t apply.

For now, only the top of the lineup had been scoring, so there was still a chance for Kento-kun to get another turn at bat.

But—I just couldn’t help but ask.

“I wonder… He wasn’t given a real chance to hit, and the pitches he did get, he turned into home runs both times, so he could argue for it… but I doubt Kuzumine-sensei would agree.” (Nadeshiko)

I knew exactly what she meant.

That teacher was our homeroom teacher, after all. There was no way he would nod in approval.

What do I do…? What can I do…?

I turned my gaze to first base, clinging to the sight of Kento-kun.

He had his hands on his hips, his eyes turned toward the sky.

Did he… give up?

After that, the fifth batter got a hit, but the sixth, seventh, and eighth batters all failed to connect, leaving us without any additional runs.

Why…? Why do I have to feel this awful even though we’re winning…?

At this point, I almost wished the other team would score.

If they did, the score gap would shrink, and we wouldn’t have to worry about the mercy rule anymore…

But Kento-kun was still going all out to get outs, without any calculations or hesitation.

The no-hitter was still intact.

“It’s still too early to give up, though.” (Nadeshiko)

“Nadeshiko-senpai…” (Sophia)

I hadn’t given up either.

But even if Kento-kun got another turn at bat, it wouldn’t mean anything if they still refused to pitch to him properly.

Even for him, hitting a home run off balls outside the strike zone would be impossible.

“To tell the truth, we anticipated this scenario.” (Nadeshiko)

“What…?” (Sophia)

Even though the situation was dire, Nadeshiko-senpai looked calm as she said that, so I turned my eyes to her.

They had predicted this? But she had looked more worried than I was just a moment ago…

“I didn’t want to think about it too much, but considering Seijou High’s batting strength, a mercy-rule win was always a likely outcome. And after hitting two consecutive home runs, there was a strong chance that pitcher wouldn’t be able to throw a strike against Kento-kun anymore. His biggest weakness seemed to be his mental game—he crumbles under pressure.” (Nadeshiko)

So not just Nadeshiko-senpai—Kento-kun had anticipated this, too…?

Then… did they already have a plan in place…?

“If they can’t throw strikes, they’ll have no choice but to face Kento-kun. That’s why Kento-kun asked everyone to load the bases for him.”

With the bases loaded, if Kento-kun gets walked, a point will automatically be added, forcing the opposing pitcher to throw strikes. I understood that logic.

But in reality—

“Kento-kun hasn’t had a full base yet, has he? In fact, even though the bases were loaded, Kurogane-kun neatly cleaned things up…” (Sophia)

No matter how much planning Kento-kun did, if it couldn’t be put into action, then it was meaningless.

Not that I was blaming Kurogane-kun for hitting the grand slam, but still…

“It’s a fundamental rule never to hold back in a game. Honestly, even I didn’t expect that grand slam… But I think that was Kurogane-kun providing cover fire.” (Nadeshiko)

“Cover fire…? You mean he didn’t just swing without thinking…?” (Sophia)

“Ahaha… Given the situation, I get why you’d think that… but when it comes to baseball, Kurogane-kun thinks things through very carefully. And he would never do anything to go against Kento-kun’s request.” (Nadeshiko)

I only knew Kurogane-kun as a scary person and someone who was incredible at baseball, so I didn’t really understand why Nadeshiko-senpai was so confident in his intentions.

But if this incredible senpai said so, maybe she was right.

“It’s not just Kurogane-kun. It was hard to get a bases-loaded situation, but I think next inning will be different. Everyone is grateful to Kento-kun and wants to repay that debt. And above all, they really love Kento-kun. They’ll make sure to fulfill his request, no matter what.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai said this with a confident smile, then raised both hands in a victorious gesture.

She probably wanted to reassure me, to say that everything would be okay.

“Repay… a debt?” (Sophia)

I didn’t know what Kento-kun did with the other team members in the baseball club. But I imagined that he must be communicating well with everyone, and whenever someone was struggling, he would help them without expecting anything in return.

When you’ve been treated that way, it’s natural to want to repay the favor.

I understood that feeling because I felt the same.

“They’ll definitely fill the bases for him, right?” (Sophia)

“Of course…!” (Nadeshiko)

Then all that was left was for Kento-kun to hit.

As I thought this with a smile, I also felt a bit guilty.

“If things had gone as usual, this game could have ended without too much burden on him… But because of me, he has to hit a home run, and since this is his last chance, the pressure is even higher… I’m really just a burden, aren’t I…? A curse…” (Sophia)

I wanted to help Kento-kun, yet all I had done was drag him down.

Knowing that he was trying so hard for my sake only made it harder to accept that I was the one putting him in this position.

“…Sophia-chan, you’ve got it all wrong.” (Nadeshiko)

“Wrong…?” (Sophia)

“Eii!” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai suddenly grabbed both of my cheeks and started squishing them.

“Hyah, shtop it pweash…!” (Sophia)

“You can’t keep thinking so negatively, okay? Sophia-chan, you’re actually helping Kento-kun move to the next stage.” (Nadeshiko)

Once my cheeks were finally released, I rubbed them with my hands, still not quite understanding what she meant.

Helping him move to the next stage? I couldn’t think of anything I’d done that would count as that…

“If you’re just trying to comfort me, please stop…” (Sophia)

“No, it’s true. The coach said it, didn’t he? That Kento-kun needs to become a monster.” (Nadeshiko)

What Nadeshiko-senpai brought up was what happened after Kento-kun’s argument with Kuzumine-sensei in the faculty room.

I remembered how, when Kento-kun had been furious in the hallway, the coach had indeed said those words to him.

“The goal of Seijou High’s baseball team is to win the Koshien championship. But to do that, we have to defeat schools that have so-called ‘monsters,’ ‘stars,’ and ‘once-in-a-decade geniuses’ on their teams. And we also have to take down the reigning champions, a ridiculous school where every single regular player is a star athlete. Kurogane-kun might be considered a monster, but that alone isn’t enough. If we want to win the championship, Kento-kun also needs to become a player that people call a monster.” (Nadeshiko)

There were several schools that came to mind when Nadeshiko-senpai mentioned that.

In reality, the Koshien tournament always had teams filled with players known as monsters, and the schools that won the championship were always the ones with those so-called geniuses.

That’s why just one wasn’t enough—they needed at least two.

And even then, they might still fall short against that star-studded powerhouse school.

“Kento-kun is the kind of person who can break through his limits when he carries the expectations of others. He proved that during the summer tournament. That’s why the coach believed you were necessary for him to move on to the next stage, Sofia-chan. Otherwise, he never would’ve come up with such a ridiculous condition.” (Nadeshiko)

A demand as extreme as hitting three home runs—it was meant to push him to grow.

No wonder it wasn’t just Nadeshiko-senpai but even the coach who had gone out of their way for me, someone who wasn’t even an official club member yet.

From the very beginning, they had been acting with Kento-kun’s best interests in mind.

“Am I… not just a burden?” (Sophia)

“At the very least, Kento-kun is turning it into strength. The two home runs he already hit are proof of that. He’s never hit consecutive home runs in two at-bats before.” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai’s words made my chest tighten with emotion.

Knowing that my presence wasn’t just weighing him down filled me with a joy so overwhelming that I almost felt like crying.

I hadn’t done anything special, but if just being here could help him in some way, that was enough for me.

“As for the pressure, you don’t need to worry about that either. This is the same guy who was sent up as the final batter in the semifinals of the summer tournament—his debut game, no less—and hit a home run. His mental strength is like steel.” (Nadeshiko)

When she mentioned that semifinal match, I recalled the day I first started to feel drawn to him.

That intense expression of focus, sharpened to a frightening degree… Watching him like that, it was impossible to believe that someone like him would crumble under pressure.

“You’re right… I think so too.” (Sophia)

If it was him, he would laugh in the face of this pressure and brush it aside with ease.

“Yeah! Now, Seijou High School’s final inning is about to begin! Let’s give it everything we’ve got and cheer him on!” (Nadeshiko)

Nadeshiko-senpai’s voice rang out as the bottom of the fifth inning—likely their final offensive chance—began.

First up was the ninth batter.

He was a second-year senpai who had been called in as a pitcher during the fourth inning.

Although he tried to hold on by hitting several foul balls, he ultimately grounded out on a low outside pitch.

With one out, the lineup turned over, bringing Kannagi-kun, the leadoff batter, back up.

He had hit successfully in every at-bat so far, proving his consistency.

And this time was no exception—he connected cleanly and got another hit, once again showing just how impressive he was.

The real concern, however, was this next batter.

In his first at-bat, he had laid down a sacrifice bunt.
In his second, he had swung and been put out.
In his third, he had managed to get a hit.

Right now, what they needed was a full set of loaded bases.

All they could do was hope he could push his batting average from .300 to .500 for this moment.

“Show them the pride of a second-year…!” (Nadeshiko)

Beside me, Nadeshiko-senpai clenched her hands tightly, her gaze locked onto the batter’s box.

After nearly two years of playing together, it made sense that she would be so invested.

I also prayed hard, as I knew we needed him to get a hit.

Then, he was pushed to a full count—oh no, but by holding out, he managed to hit a pitch that had become slightly easier for him.

“He did it! He got on base…!” (Other manager)

“Next up is Kurogane-kun…!” (Other manager)

One out, runners on first and third.

Now it was Kurogane-kun’s turn at bat.

If he hit, the game would end.

But of course, no one was going to tell him not to swing, and he wouldn’t accept that kind of order anyway.

So, what was he going to do…?

All I could do was believe in what Nadeshiko-senpai had said—that Kurogane-kun would never betray Kento-kun—and keep my eyes fixed on the field.

As everyone’s gaze locked onto him, Kurogane-kun did something completely unexpected—

A bunt.

Not just a simple sacrifice bunt to advance the runners, but one meant to keep himself safe as well—a safety bunt.

“Kurogane-kun… bunted!?” (Other manager)

“No way…! I’ve never seen him bunt in an actual game before…!” (Other manager)

As the manager girls let out cries of surprise, the ball rolled toward third base.

The third baseman quickly picked it up, but standing on third was the fleet-footed runner, Kannagi-kun.

If he dared to throw to first, Kannagi-kun would dash straight for home in an instant, ending the game.

That was why the third baseman hesitated, unable to throw. In that brief moment, the runner on first advanced to second, and the swift Kurogane-kun sprinted safely to first.

“The bases are loaded!!!” (Other managers)

While the manager girls cheered, Kurogane-kun stood on first with a relaxed expression, his gaze shifting toward the next batter’s box.

From there, Kento-kun was making his way to the batter’s box, their eyes meeting as he walked forward.

Then—almost as if to say I kept my promise. Now you finish this properly—Kurogane-kun sharply pointed at Kento-kun.

In response, Kento-kun gave a firm nod.

And for some reason, his gaze turned toward us.

He stretched out his right hand, reaching straight in my direction.

In the middle of this huge crowd, there was no way he could have found me without knowing exactly where I was.

Maybe he had asked Nadeshiko-senpai in advance where I would be sitting.

Since he had gone through the trouble of reaching his arm toward me, I exaggeratedly mouthed “Go for it!” and clenched both fists in a guts pose.

Kento-kun hadn’t expected me to respond like that—his eyes widened in brief surprise before he broke into a delighted smile.

What is this feeling…? My chest feels so warm.

“…That’s nice…” (Nadeshiko)

I thought I heard Nadeshiko-senpai mumble beside me, but I was too fixated on him to properly take it in.

Kento-kun took a deep breath and stepped into the batter’s box.

—By now, I was probably no longer on his mind.

Right now, the only things in his world were the pitcher standing before him and the opponent’s defensive formation. His mind had to be completely focused on reading the opposing battery’s pitch selection.

I believed in him and waited for the moment.

“…Are they going to walk him again…?” (Other manager)

One of the managers murmured quietly.

The one who immediately responded was Nadeshiko-senpai.

“If they walk him, the game ends in a cold-game loss. They have no choice but to throw strikes.” (Nadeshiko)

Just as she said, now that the bases were loaded, if Kento-kun was walked, the forced run would add another point to the score.

The score difference was already nine runs. If one more run was added, the game would be called due to the mercy rule.

That meant the opposing pitcher had no way to avoid him.

Now, I finally understood what Nadeshiko-senpai meant when she talked about Kurogane-kun’s covering fire.

This nine-run lead was only possible because of his grand slam.

If the lead had only been seven or eight runs, the opposing team might have chosen to walk Kento-kun, even with the bases loaded, just to avoid the risk of him hitting a home run.

If they were at risk of giving up four runs instead of just one, that would have been a reasonable strategy.

That was why Kurogane-kun had instinctively gone for a grand slam.

—No, actually… the fact that he pulled it off on purpose is just ridiculous in so many ways.

“They’re being careful.” (Sophia)

“Probably because it’s his last at-bat, so it’s only natural.” (Nadeshiko)

The strikes were coming in properly, but Kento-kun wasn’t swinging recklessly in desperation.

Even in this high-pressure situation, he remained calm, waiting for the perfect pitch he could turn into a home run.

“—Do your best, Kento-kun…!!” (Sophia)

Caught up in the moment, I accidentally shouted out loud.

People around me turned in surprise, but with the brass band playing and the baseball team’s loud cheers filling the air, my voice likely hadn’t reached the one person it was meant for—Kento-kun.

And yet—just for a moment, his face turned in my direction, and I could have sworn I saw a smile on his lips.

Taking a deep breath, Kento-kun faced the pitcher once more.

And then—

“““He did it!!!””” (Everyone)

—A new monster of a batter was born that day.

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Thanks for reading!

Here’s a chapter which I have no idea wtf is happening cause I don’t play baseball. Translation is definitely scuffed if you have knowledge on baseball.

Nadeshiko is slowly transitioning to another main heroine.

P.S. I’ll release the epilogue and V3 illustrations within the next 24 hours.

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