It was 4:00 PM.
Just like before, both of them casually browsed through the large shopping center until they felt at ease.
Arriving at the Nozomi Aquarium—where they could encounter about 650 species and approximately 20,000 marine creatures—the two of them finished checking in and chatted while looking at the pamphlet provided.
“Wow, I’m really looking forward to this…” (Haruto)
“Hehe, me too.” (Aya)
For Aya, who had put so much effort into planning today’s date, seeing her partner genuinely excited like this brought her immense joy.
“To be honest, it’s been about ten years since I last came to the aquarium.” (Haruto)
“For me, it’s been exactly ten years!” (Aya)
“Shirayuki-san too!?” (Haruto)
“Yes! That’s why when I got your message saying ‘I like fish’, I was excited. That’s how I decided on the plan.” (Aya)
“That was a good idea. Thank you for planning all this for today.” (Haruto)
“It’s fine, it’s fine!” (Aya)
Choosing an unfamiliar but suitable location was a tough task, but she was receiving such gratitude in return.
Getting to know what Haruto liked, and being able to spend this enjoyable time together.
She felt rewarded.
“…Apparently, this aquarium is open at night too… It says here that the atmosphere is different, but I wonder if it’s that significant.” (Haruto)
“…Haruto-san, the nighttime visitors are definitely all couples.” (Aya)
“Haha, that’s true.” (Haruto)
When researching Nozomi Aquarium, Aya quickly discovered that it was open at night as well.
Considering it was a ‘date’, coming in the evening might have offered a more atmospheric and enjoyable experience.
However, she deliberately left it out of the plan.
One of the reasons was… Haruto’s family situation.
Considering that his sister was waiting for him to return, it wasn’t ideal for the date to last that long.
And the main reason, as she mentioned, was the difference in the crowd.
In a romantic place like an aquarium at night, it was easy to imagine that there would be a lot of couples.
If she were to walk around such a place with someone she cared about… the surroundings might influence them.
She might end up doing something strange while getting carried away by the atmosphere.
She might even end up doing something bold.
To avoid the possibility of doing something that might make her disliked, Aya chose a time when there were many families around.
“Well then, Haruto-san. Which way should we start? If we take the right path, we’ll see the ocean fish first, and if we take the left path, we’ll see the river fish first.” (Aya)
“Can I really decide such an important thing!?” (Haruto)
“I’m honestly fine with either, no need to be considerate.” (Aya)
“Then… I want to see the ocean fish first. I think that’s the main attraction, but I can’t wait any longer!” (Haruto)
“Hehe, then let’s go right!” (Aya)
“Sorry for being selfish, and thanks for indulging me.” (Haruto)
“No, it’s fine. Come on, let’s go, let’s go!” (Aya)
“Yeah!” (Haruto)
For Aya, the order in which they visited didn’t matter.
All she wanted was to be able to walk with Haruto… that was her honest feeling.
To convey that there was no need to apologize or thank her, she firmly pushed Haruto’s back as they entered the right-hand aisle.
And there, they were greeted by small fishes swimming gracefully in tanks taller than their own height.
Some had beautiful patterns, others had distinctive features, and some had cute faces.
Seeing this scene made them instantly realize they were at an aquarium. Drawn in, they stood side by side in front of the large tank.
“Shirayuki-san, just watching this is pretty fun.” (Haruto)
“Same here!” (Aya)
It was fun to see the fish gracefully swim, moving their dorsal and tail fins… and to see Haruto’s side profile as he was absorbed in the fish.
Of course, for the latter, she made sure not to stare so much as not to get caught.
“……” (Haruto)
“……” (Aya)
Though there was a period of silence, it wasn’t awkward at all.
Aya subtly moved closer until their shoulders almost touched and enjoyed the pleasant moment they had together.
“Haruto-san, if you want, it’s okay to take pictures of the fish… As long as you don’t use flash, it’s allowed.” (Aya)
“Ah, no, I’m fine.” (Haruto)
“Really…? Are you holding back because of the atmosphere or something?” (Aya)
“It’s more of a personal thing. When I start taking pictures, I get so focused on getting a good shot that it becomes hard to remember the experience. So, I’ll just take a quick snapshot in my brain.” (Haruto)
“I see.” (Aya)
Haruto’s words reassured her that he was enjoying himself.
Just that alone made her incredibly happy. It filled her from her fingertips to her toes. Her face even started to feel warm.
“On the other hand, Shirayuki-san, aren’t you going to take any pictures…? I don’t think you have the same problem as me.” (Haruto)
“I’m fine as it is. If it were a place I’d only visit once, I wouldn’t say this, but if I ever want to see the fish again, I’ll just rely on Haruto-san to come here with me.” (Aya)
“Haha, I’d be happy to.” (Haruto)
Noticing that he didn’t seem entirely displeased, she quickly looked at the tank to avoid feeling embarrassed.
“…” (Haruto)
“…” (Aya)
And then, once again, another moment of silence.
“…If I had a bit more experience with socializing, maybe I could say something clever in times like these…” (Haruto)
Haruto murmured, lost in thought.
“Hehe, quiet moments like this are important too, so don’t worry about it. Though, I’m curious about what you mean by ‘in times like these’. Did you want to say something earlier?” (Aya)
“Ah, haha. You’re really sharp. It’s just that… yeah. There’s something I haven’t told you yet, Shirayuki-san.” (Haruto)
“Something… you haven’t told me yet?” (Aya)
“Um, well, when I first met you earlier, Shirayuki-san, I couldn’t help but notice how well-dressed you were, so I wanted to tell you that what you’re wearing looks good on you.” (Haruto)
“!!” (Aya)
“…It’s amazing that there are people out there who could say such things so easily.” (Haruto)
“S-Sure there are people like that, but we can go at our own pace. Actually, if you don’t, my inexperienced heart wouldn’t be able to handle it.” (Aya)
“It’s a relief to hear you say that.” (Haruto)
There are certainly those who prefer someone more experienced in romance to take the lead in everything.
However, Aya held a different opinion.
Because they were both inexperienced, she hoped they could build their experiences together. To deepen their relationship step by step, feeling their way through it together.
“Um… Haruto-san, your clothes really suit you too.” (Aya)
“T-Thanks.” (Haruto)
“I… I can’t say things like that unless you say them first, so I think you’re really amazing, Haruto-san.” (Aya)
“Thank you… Personally, I’m happier if you stay just the way you are. I think it’s a guy’s role to say these things.” (Haruto)
“Then, I’ll take you up on that…” (Aya)
It’s less nerve-wracking to respond after being told first. It allows the conversation to flow naturally.
So, knowing that the person she cares about thinks this way, Aya couldn’t be happier.
“And there’s one more thing I have to say… um, it’s beautiful.” (Haruto)
“!!” (Aya)
Haruto said this while glancing at the fish in the tank in front of him.
“Nee! You can’t say something like that and then follow it up with a comment about the fish… It makes me think you’re talking bout me… I’ll misunderstand…” (Aya)
“…Some people need a bit of help to say such things.” (Haruto)
“…Ah.” (Aya)
Aya, who had seriously believed that, felt even more frustrated now.
But as she looked at Haruto’s profile again, she realized she had been mistaken.
It was the same expression he had when they saw each other at the PC specialty shop’s headphone section—a shy, embarrassed expression.
“Hehe… So, from your perspective, Haruto-san, I look beautiful?” (Aya)
“Don’t get too carried away.” (Haruto)
“But I’m happy.” (Aya)
Her expression pleaded for him to say it again, but he ignored her to the point where she knew he had reached his limit.
Still, she could tell he genuinely meant it.
The happiness she felt made her want to dance.
Because she was getting carried away, she had something to say in return.
“Then… I think it looks cool.” (Aya)
Mimicking her words while looking at the fish, Haruto’s shoulders jerked noticeably.
Aya felt his gaze from beside her but didn’t meet it.
Pretending not to notice, she used her hand to cover her reddening ears.
Realizing that none of the exhibited fish could be described as “cool”…
Haruto seemed to have thought the same thing as she did earlier, as Aya caught sight of him scratching his cheek out of the corner of her eye.
“Um, shall we move to the next section soon…?” (Haruto)
“Y-Yeah, sounds good!” (Aya)
“And… thank you for your kind words.” (Haruto)
“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about.” (Aya)
“I was hoping you would answer properly.” (Haruto)
Responding with a “You’re welcome” would be like revealing that she had called Haruto “cool”.
But… there was one thing she wanted to point out.
“Even though you already know what I mean, Haruto-san…” (Aya)
As soon as she said that, Haruto covered his face with one hand to avoid being seen from the side.
“…Hehe.” (Aya)
Seeing her partner less composed than herself brings a sense of relief.
“Haruto-san, when you’re ready, shall we move to the next section?” (Aya)
“That would be great…” (Haruto)
This time, she took the lead.
The best defense is a good offense. That was one of the lessons learned at this moment.
∮
Moving on to the next section, the atmosphere changed drastically from before, to a pitch-black space.
There, similar to a planetarium, a scene unfolded around them with countless beautiful jellyfish emitting colorful lights.
“A-Amazing…” (Haruto)
“Wow, this looks beautiful…” (Aya)
A sight so beautiful that words couldn’t describe it.
As they gazed around without blinking, Haruto called out to them.
“Shirayuki-san! Can I go take a closer look!? There’s a huge jellyfish over there!” (Haruto)
“Hehe, of course, go ahead.” (Aya)
Seemingly more interested in ‘big’ rather than ‘beautiful’, Haruto eagerly approached the jellyfish with quick steps.
Following him slowly, Aya caught up, Standing next to Haruto again, she took advantage of his fascination with the jellyfish to quietly close the distance until their shoulders touched.
This had already succeeded once before. Perhaps he hadn’t noticed, or maybe he didn’t mind, either way, there were no signs of disdain.
It felt natural.
“Oh, it’s a real jellyfish… It’s really huge…” (Haruto)
(Hehe…)
With sparkling eyes, he leaked his impressions while gazing at the jellyfish swimming around gently.
“Wow…” (Haruto)
Despite his usually mature demeanor, he seemed somewhat childish now.
Captivated by this gap, Aya continued to enjoy the blissful time.
Recalling the compliments of ‘it looks good on you’ and ‘beautiful’, she alternated her gaze between the jellyfish and his face.
It was an unconventional way to enjoy the aquarium, but for Aya, it was the most fulfilling.
“What do you think that jellyfish is thinking as it swims…” (Haruto)
(—Pfft)
Though she could somewhat understand what he meant, she nearly burst out laughing at the unexpected question.
But Aya managed to stifle her laughter.
(Ah, that was close…)
Normally, it wouldn’t be a problem to laugh.
However… Not right now.
For now, she wanted him to focus on what was in front of him.
She didn’t want him to notice her.
(If I’m going to say it, now’s the time… It’s now or never… It’ll be okay, definitely…)
When Aya was preparing the date plan beforehand, she set three goals to achieve during their time together.
She had determined that achieving the second goal would be possible in this section of the aquarium, based on her research of the aquarium beforehand.
As a novice in romance, she knew that if she missed this opportunity, she might never get another chance again.
So, to create unforgettable memories and avoid any regrets, she rallied herself.
Just like how it was during her countless practices, she called out to him.
“…H-Haruto-kun, do you like jellyfish?” (Aya)
“Yeah, I love them. They’re such unique creatures, and I really like their relaxed vibe.” (Haruto)
“I see, I see.” (Aya)
He didn’t seem to notice the change in how she addressed him.
(Hehe, I did it… I finally called him!)
Could a plan even go this smoothly? Aya couldn’t help but smile, feeling so happy that she almost wanted to jump for joy right then and there.
“Do you like jellyfish too, Shirayuki-san?” (Haruto)
“I like them enough to be able to watch them for hours.” (Aya)
“I’m glad to hear that. I was worried it might become boring if you weren’t interested in them.” (Haruto)
“Oh, don’t worry about that. Even if I wasn’t interested, I wouldn’t find it boring with you.” (Aya)
He really is a kind person.
Though it was a bit embarrassing, Aya thought it would be reassuring to let him know.
“Huh? So, does that mean… there’s something else more fun?” (Haruto)
“Yeah. Like observing Haruto-kun’s happy expression.” (Aya)
“W-Well, don’t do that! It’s embarrassing…” (Haruto)
“Hehe, luckily for you, I’m interested in the animals at the aquarium, so there’s no need for that.” (Aya)
“Mou… You’re quite the tease…” (Haruto)
He showed a relieved expression.
(I’m sorry, Haruto-kun. I lied. I couldn’t help but watch you.)
Though she apologized silently in her mind, she couldn’t help but continue to unconsciously glance at his profile.
Because of that, Aya was able to notice.
“Oh! Haruto-kun, Haruto-kun. There’s another big jellyfish up there on the right.” (Aya)
“Where, where, where… Oh! That jellyfish over there has a different pattern.” (Haruto)
“I prefer this jellyfish over here though.” (Aya)
“Hmm… It’s hard to choose for me…” (Haruto)
He pondered with a troubled expression.
There was still no sign that he noticed, but this was also something she had anticipated.
(I’m sorry again… Haruto-kun. I’m really timid… But I’ve wanted to call you this for so long.)
She knows that she should have asked for permission before changing the way she addressed him. She knows that he’s kind and would likely forgive her when asked.
But she still couldn’t muster up the courage in her novice heart to pull it off.
In Aya’s mind, the moment he notices the change, she could prompt with a ‘Is it okay?’ and that would be her limit.
Still, she managed to achieve one of her goals.
If he notices, then she can ask for permission.
Even if he doesn’t notice, she can continue calling him ‘Haruto-kun’, the name she’s always wanted to use.
(B-But this is nerve-wracking… I hope Haruto-kun can’t hear the sound of my heart pounding…)
She took a step back, trying to create some distance between them.
It was troublesome how she couldn’t shake the feeling of not wanting to be apart from him.
“I know it’s a bit late to ask, but there are various types of jellyfish here, right? Shirayuki-san, are there any jellyfish that caught your interest?” (Haruto)
“Yeah, there are. I’d like to see some small jellyfish too.” (Aya)
“Ahaha… That’s true. I’m sorry for staying here for so long.” (Haruto)
“No, it was fun, so it’s fine.” (Aya)
(…And because of that, I was able to change how I address him.)
For Aya, the big jellyfish that captivated him was her savior.
“Alright, now it’s your turn, Aya-san. Let’s go over there. From the looks of it, those small jellyfish over there swims under your feet.” (Haruto)
“It’s a bit dark, so be careful not to trip over any steps, Haruto-kun.” (Aya)
“I-I’m not that clumsy, you know.” (Haruto)
“Hehe, just in case, I’ll hold onto your sleeve.” (Aya)
“M-Mou…” (Haruto)
Just like when she secretly bought the same wireless headphones as him and got their first pairing item, she felt like skipping with joy.
With the same feeling as when they synchronized and reached out for the same wireless earphones, Aya quietly took his hand, paid for their tickets, and felt like skipping with joy.
Feeling cheerful, she began to move, holding onto his oblivious sleeve.
(I’m really happy…)
Thanks to achieving yet another goal, she was able to enjoy the aquarium more than any other visitor.
She felt confident that she was enjoying it more than children visiting the aquarium for the first time.
“Wow… Haruto-kun, there are baby jellyfishes over here!” (Aya)
“They look like enoki mushrooms1…” (Haruto)
“Hehe, indeed.” (Aya)
They crouched down together on the spot, observing the cute jellyfish swimming gracefully at their feet.
At that moment, Aya was convinced that not choosing the night aquarium was the right decision.
If there were lots of couples around… she would surely try to hold his hand.
And she could even imagine herself becoming unable to speak out of nervousness.
(I’d be happy if Haruto-kun felt the same way as me…)
With narrowed eyes, Aya sent her gaze to him, hoping to convey her feelings.
TL Notes:
Thanks for reading!
OHHH, last chapter, Aya made an excuse to use the bathroom but actually went and bought the same pair of headphones, so that’s why there was one lesser in stock. I thought the one lesser in stock meant MC taking the last one, but it was actually Aya. I didn’t even notice it when translating.
Things are happening this date and it isn’t even over. Looks like Aya has one more plan up her sleeve. Maybe it’s being escorted back home? Or maybe it’s escorting MC back to meet imouto-san?
In hindsight, it’s funny that they still haven’t met yet. By the time Yuno realizes, they will already be dating.
Thanks for the chapter ☺️ keep up the good work
thanks for the chapter !! lets goooo Aya