The current time is 8:50 PM, 10 minutes before Haruto’s part-time job ends.
“Y-Yahoo…?” (Aya)
“Good evening, Shirayuki-san.” (Haruto)
Having probably gone shopping somewhere, Aya speaks in a quiet tone to Haruto while holding a stylish paper bag,
“…You know, I don’t really know how to respond if you act this embarrassed.” (Haruto)
“I’m trying my best, okay?! Just don’t bring up that topic anymore!” (Aya)
“Ahaha. Sorry.” (Haruto)
He hasn’t forgotten. No, it’s impossible to forget.
The love consultation and the fact that she is interested in him.
Aya probably can’t forget about it either which leads to the current strange relationship.
“Um, so, do you want to order something to drink for now?” (Haruto)
“Uh, yeah. Then… a large almond latte ice, please.” (Aya)
“Understood.” (Haruto)
“Oh, and also the latte art and message…” (Aya)
“Um… if you don’t act as aggressive as usual, it’ll make me conscious of the situation again…” (Haruto)
“B-but it’s impossible not to be conscious of it in the first place…!! Just put up with it!!” (Aya)
“Even if you say that…” (Haruto)
Perhaps because of her fair skin, her blushing face stands out quite prominently.
Nevertheless, she seems to be making an effort to maintain the usual atmosphere.
Responding with a wry smile, Haruto begins preparing the order.
First, he focuses on the requested latte art and message.
While enduring the embarrassing atmosphere, he writes down a message with his trembling hands.
[Good job on your steam (haishi) today! Fight on!!]
To ensure confidentiality, he refrained from specifically writing down the word, “streaming (haishin)”. Next, the latte art.
While imagining an image of a hamster he found online, he diligently starts drawing.
…In the end, two of the teeths became too long, resulting in a somewhat strange face, but at least it can be passed off as a mouse.
Now, all that’s left is to make the almond latte.
“Ah, Shirayuki-san. I forgot to mention, but you don’t need to worry about money this time. Since you came all the way here at this hour, let me treat you.” (Haruto)
“No, don’t worry about it. You have a sister, right, Haruto-san? You should use that money for her sake.” (Aya)
“Hmm? That’s weird, I can’t hear anything all of a sudden.” (Haruto)
“Wow, that’s some terrible acting…” (Aya)
“What are you talking about?” (Haruto)
While playing dumb till the end, Haruto enters the price for the almond latte and adds it as his own order.
With this, she shouldn’t feel uneasy about drinking it.
As the total amount of 1,020 yen appeared on the cash register, he recorded the amount and closed the register.
All that’s left is to settle the bill at the end of the shift. Of course, he already had the approval from his manager to do stuff like this.
“Well then, I’ll go and quickly finish up your order, so please wait a bit more.” (Haruto)
“Y-yeah. Thank you, Haruto-san.” (Aya)
“You’re welcome. Also, sorry for being a bit forceful.” (Haruto)
“Mouu… Only Haruto-san would do something like this.” (Aya)
“That’s not true. You’re exaggerating” (Haruto)
With that response, he quickly moves away from the register to start preparing the drinks.
“…Haruto-san must be really popular with girls…” (Aya)
“Huh? Did you say something?” (Haruto)
“N-Nothing!!” (Aya)
“Is that so? Let me know if anything is bothering you.” (Haruto)
The moment Aya heard his response, she couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed.
After serving a few more customers, the time finally hit 9:00 PM, the end of Haruto’s part-time shift.
“Man, I’m still surprised. To think that Shirayuki-san is actually Ayaya-san…” (Haruto)
“Same here. I feel that it’s too much of a coincidence.” (Aya)
Aya and Haruto sat on a bench in a nearby park, chatting away while they sipped on their drinks.
“I’ve been wondering for a while now, but have you ever felt that I was Ayaya? After all, the name ‘Ayaya’ even has my real name inside.” (Aya)
“I did think your voice and personality were similar, but that’s about it. I never imagined Ayaya-san was a university student, and I also thought that she lived in a different region because of her dialect.” (Haruto)
“Ah, I see. That makes sense.” (Aya)
Although there were similarities, it wasn’t enough to make a definitive judgment.
“But, maybe our thoughts were actually quite similar. I never thought that Oni-chan was such a young person. Are you in your 20s?” (Aya)
“I’m exactly 20.” (Haruto)
“Eh… What!? So we’re only two years apart!?” (Aya)
“Well, technically, yeah.” (Haruto)
“Why do you look so mature at this age? I’m jealous.” (Aya)
Does she have a longing for being ‘mature’? Aya peers into his face with a serious expression as if seeking advice.
As her beautiful face gets closer, Haruto subtly distances himself and gives his thoughts.
“If I had to say, maybe it’s the family environment. You probably already know from the streaming incident, but I’ve wanted to be like a parent to my little sister.” (Haruto)
“Ah… Actually, let’s not talk about that anymore!” (Aya)
“Haha, it’s okay now. I’m not dwelling on it anymore. Thanks for being considerate.” (Haruto)
“I-Is that so?” (Aya)
“Of course. By the way, Shirayuki-san, do you live alone?” (Haruto)
“Yeah! I moved here by myself to attend university.” (Aya)
“Is it tough living alone?” (Haruto)
“Honestly, it’s quite tough. Well, thanks to this experience, I’ve come to appreciate how much my parents were taking care of me.” (Aya)
“Same here. Earning money for living expenses, cooking, doing housework – it’s really amazing how much was happening behind the scenes. It’s not something that can be easily pulled off.” (Haruto)
“I know right? And even when they’re tired, they rarely show it, don’t they?” (Aya)
“Yeah, that’s definitely true.” (Haruto)
Haruto who lost both parents, and Aya who moved away from her parents to attend university, have completely different backgrounds. However, they share the same sentiments.
For a while, they discuss how great and admirable their parents are, and on top of some casual conversations, 50 minutes have passed.
“All right, it’s already getting late. Let’s save this conversation for another day. Shall we get to the main topic now?” (Haruto)
“A-Ah, that’s right!” (Aya)
Not wanting to let someone who is living alone go back late, he prompts her on the main topic of discussion, and she readily nods.
“So, what did you want to talk about today? If you wanted to talk about today’s incident, it seems to have already been resolved relatively smoothly.” (Haruto)
“Mmmnn!” (Aya)
“Huh?” (Haruto)
Looking at her making onomatopoeic1 sounds, he sees her large eyes narrowing into a glare.
“Haruto-san, you’ve been facing a lot of controversies lately, haven’t you?” (Aya)
“It’s a positive kind of controversy, so you don’t have to worry too much about it. It’s not affecting me, and if anything, it’s helping.” (Haruto)
“But it’s negatively affecting Oni-chan, isn’t it?” (Aya)
“…” (Haruto)
“I know that you’re also looking out for me.” (Aya)
As if she had anticipated everything, she hands over the stylish paper bag that she had placed on her thigh.
“So, Haruto-san, please take this as a token of my gratitude. It might not be enough for all that you’ve done for me though…” (Aya)
“Th-This is the thank-you gift? What’s all this?” (Haruto)
“Well, macarons, cookies, and baumkuchen2! I also included some for your sister.” (Aya)
“No, I can’t accept something so expensive… Rather, I should be the one apologizing for getting you involved in this situation.” (Haruto)
Though she doesn’t mention it, it’s likely worth around 10,000 yen. It’s a product from a famous brand that anyone would have heard of at least once.
While he naturally wants to share it with his younger sister Yuno, he can’t show greediness towards someone younger.
“Well, I just did what anyone would do, so there’s no need for thanks…” (Haruto)
“No, that’s not true.” (Aya)
As she argues, a breeze sweeps through the night.
“Haruto-san, you’re trying to use the money you earn from streaming to support your sister’s education, right? Yet, you’re also trying to protect me… That’s not something anyone can do.” (Aya)
“Well, considering Oni-chan’s streaming style, there’s plenty of potential for a comeback. Even if I can’t stream, I can somehow make a living if I work hard. It’s not a big deal, really.” (Haruto)
While there’s some embarrassment in his response, he genuinely means what he says.
“Hehe~ So you don’t deny you’re trying to protect both your sister and me?” (Aya)
“…” (Haruto)
“Haruto-san, did you try to protect me because you thought I was living off my streaming money and using it for university? Were you worried that if I couldn’t pay for the expenses, I might have to drop out…?” (Aya)
“Uh…” (Haruto)
“I knew it.” (Aya)
Whether she heard the suppressed sound of his *gulp* or read it from his expression, she smiled and continued.
“I don’t know anything about your sister, but I’m sure she likes you too.” (Aya)
“W-wait. Why is it in Shirayuki-san’s mind that I am someone who likes his sister…!? It’s not like I…” (Haruto)
“Your username says ‘I love my little sister (oimo_daisukiyo)’ though?” (Aya)
“Well, that’s like saying ‘daisukiyo‘ in real life… It’s more like a joking expression.” (Haruto)
“Oh, really?” (Aya)
“Don’t look at me like that…” (Haruto)
With an overflowing grin, Aya enjoyed his reaction, and he instinctively averts his gaze.
“Hehe, I guess I’ll stop teasing you for now.” (Aya)
With a merciful tone, Aya stops teasing him.
Glancing at him from the side, she changes her tone once again.
“Hey, Haruto-san.” (Aya)
“W-What is it?” (Haruto)
“I was really happy about what you did for me. Haruto-san, you’re really amazing, after all.” (Aya)
“…” (Haruto)
“So, I’ve decided to learn from you, Haruto-san. I want to become someone who can protect others when needed. I owe you a debt, and ideally, I hope to be able to protect you in return.” (Aya)
“…” (Haruto)
“…………” (Aya)
“…………” (Haruto)
Not knowing how to respond, Haruto remained silent.
Perhaps due to the atmosphere, as time passes, Aya’s body starts to tremble, and her face turns bright red. She makes large gestures and lets out a bunch of “Awawa!!” rapidly.
“Ahaha… I don’t think you need permission, but having it might be better.” (Haruto)
“Y-yeah! That’s right!” (Aya)
“…” (Haruto)
“…” (Aya)
The conversation came to an abrupt pause.
Both of them might be feeling embarrassed by the conversation reminiscent of an actual couple.
The atmosphere is awkward and somewhat uncomfortable.
“W-Well…! Since we finished this important conversation, I think it’s about time for me to head home!!” (Aya)
“Would you like me to walk you home?” (Haruto)
“Y-yeah! I-if you’re that kind to me… I might be in trouble.” (Aya)
“Huh?” (Haruto)
“Haha, just kidding! Just kidding!” (Aya)
While scratching her cheek and wearing a wry smile, Aya stands up energetically as if to hide her face.
“Well then, see you later, Haruto-san! Thank you so much for today.” (Aya)
“Likewise. Be careful on your way home, it’s getting dark.” (Haruto)
“Okay!” (Aya)
Their parting was sudden.
Aya runs to the entrance of the park, then turns around, waving energetically.
“Haruto-san, be careful on your way home too!” (Aya)
“Got it!” (Haruto)
“Alright then, bye!” (Aya)
Her face, seen from a distance, somehow seemed to be tinged with red, perhaps just a trick of the light.
*
“I’m home~! …Ah.” (Haruto)
Returning home after parting with Aya, Haruto opens the front door with his usual cheerful voice. However, what unfolds before him is a scene that makes his body shrink in an instant.
Whether it was the sound of his footsteps or a premonition of his return, Yuno, with both hands on her hips, was standing right in front of the entrance.
“Welcome back, stupid (baka) onii-chan.” (Yuno)
“Y-Yes.” (Haruto)
A commanding voice. A commanding posture. And it feels like a shadow is cast over the upper half of her face.
“Work today was supposed to end early, at 9 PM, right?” (Yuno)
“Y-yes. That’s correct.” (Haruto)
“What time is it now?” (Yuno)
“Uh, it’s 10:30 PM…” (Haruto)
“How long does it take to travel from home to work?” (Yuno)
“Just under 20 minutes…” (Haruto)
“That’s right. But today, you’re an hour later than the time you told me this morning. I always tell you to let me know if you’re going to be late, right~?” (Yuno)
The ‘right~?’ at the end. It’s something Yuno always does when she’s angry.
“I always cook at a specific time so that you can have a freshly cooked meal by the time you get back, onii-chan.” (Yuno)
“I’m really sorry… Some stuff happened…” (Haruto)
“Haa. Don’t make me worry like that… I even sent you a text.” (Yuno)
Getting scolded by his high school younger sister. It’s a scene he wouldn’t want anyone else to see.
If a third party were to witness this, they might get the impression that she’s being overly protective, but in reality, they are each other’s only family.
It’s something they understand from the pain of losing someone dear.
“If you don’t give me a proper explanation, I’ll keep lecturing you for another 5 minutes. You’re the type who won’t get it unless I say it multiple times.” (Yuno)
“Um, well, actually, I got caught up talking with a regular customer!” (Haruto)
“That’s not an explanation, that sounds like an excuse. Whatever. Where’s my slipper…” (Yuno)
“W-wait a minute! Before that, this! I got a gift for you!” (Haruto)
Sensing the imminent danger of being spanked, Haruto quickly realizes the dire situation, and in a panic, shows the paper bag he was holding, successfully diverting the conversation.
“A gift?” (Yuno)
“It’s a continuation of my explanation. I got praised by a customer, and it kind of led to them giving me this…? Sorry, I got carried away talking with them. Inside is your favorite Western-style sweets.” (Haruto)
“Huh!?” (Yuno)
Yuno, who received the paper bag with both hands, begins rummaging through it while peeking inside, confirming its contents.
When she raises her face again, her eyes are sparkling like jewels.
This wasn’t just about receiving her favorite treats but also about hearing that her family had been praised.
“You got praised at work, onii-chan!?” (Yuno)
“W-well, (not exactly about work but) something like that.” (Haruto)
“Why didn’t you say that sooner! If that’s the reason, I’ll forgive you.” (Yuno)
“Alright!” (Haruto)
Being scolded by Yuno is the hardest thing to bear. Haruto raises a joyful voice in the heat of the moment, but he inadvertently dug himself into a hole.
“‘Alright’? Onii-chan, you don’t seem to be reflecting on yourself. I didn’t say you didn’t need to think about what you’ve done.” (Yuno)
“N-no… I’m really, truly reflecting.” (Haruto)
“Looks like I still have to lecture you.” (Yuno)
“… I’m really really sorry.” (Haruto)
And so, the lecture begins… and just once, his butt was smacked with a slipper.
In the end, Yuno writes the words “Don’t forget to inform” on the back of his hand with a permanent marker.
Illustration of Aya blushing
TL Notes:
Thanks for reading!
Aww, MC and Aya were so sweet to each other. Man, the two of you should just date already.
MC suffering from celebrating too early. Always celebrate out of sight.
No chapter tmr, need more sleep xd
This is random but yesterday my parents came and cleaned my air-conditioner, and for some reason, the temperature reset back to 18oC. Somehow, I failed to notice the change and slept under that temperature for the entire night (normal was 25oC), thinking “Man, cleaning it sure made a difference”. My air-conditioner leaked today.
Thanks for the chapter!
To put it simply, onomatopoeia is what sound effects would be if they are written.
Yuno is so cute! Also would like to see the scene where Haruto got smacked in the butt lol
Also get some rest, Vamp-sama, your comfort and health comes first