Chapter 4
I wake up to Utada Hikaru's Beautiful World. [1] I sit up and stretch before turning off my phone's alarm and quickly make my way to the bathroom and go about my daily routine. Even though I got nearly 10 hours of sleep last night, I'm still sluggish in my movements. I quickly wash my face with warm water to wake myself up. Then after brushing my teeth and spitting out the toothpaste, I make my way down stairs to see Komachi preparing breakfast for us.
"Good morning Onii-chan, did you sleep well?" She asks as she is heating up some left over rice and grilling up some fish.
"Indeed Komachi," I make my way over to the kitchen to start helping her with preparations.
"There's no need to Onii-chan, I can handle it all, and so you just go sit down. Aww I bet that got me a lot of points." She tries and pushes me back to the dinner table.
"Of course it did, but I'll be gone for a couple of days, so shouldn't you take advantage of your onii-chan trying to lessen your load before you have to take care of all the chores alone?" I ask with my head slightly turned towards her as she pushes me out of the kitchen.
As Komachi was about to retort she is interrupted by a tired sounding voice coming from deeper within the house.
"Hey you damn kids, can't you keep it down some of us are trying to catch up on sleep." A voice calls out while yawning at the end.
Komachi and I look at the door to see a woman with glasses over her blue eyes in messy pajamas walking in, her proud Hikigaya ahoge being more prominent than normal as she stretches and makes her way to the kitchen.
"Okasan, I thought you would still be sleeping. Didn't you have to pull some overtime because a department head got sick?" I ask as it was very rare for okasan and even less for otousan to be up so early on a weekend, unless they were leaving for work of course.
"Well today is an important day after all, our little boy is going on a school trip, so your father and I should at least see you off." My cheeks heat up when I hear 'little boy'.
Speaking of the devil, as soon as okasan sits down, a man pushing into his 50s makes his way down from their bedroom. His sluggish movements are ever so noticeable making a clear indication that he has been over worked despite his rank in the company.
He stretches and yawns before saying "Good morning, kids. What's for breakfast?"
"Well otousan, I got up a bit early today so I could make onii-chan here some grilled fish, rice and miso soup before he leaves for the station." Komachi as she retreats to the kitchen to cook.
"Hmmm sounds good, is there going to be enough for me and okasan to join in on?" otousan asks as he sits down before looking through the news on his tablet.
I quickly head back to the kitchen and then set out two cups of coffee for otousan and okasan to which they nod their thanks.
"Of course there is, it'll just take a bit longer though for the fish." I say as I head back to the kitchen and grab two more fish from the fridge, with Komachi frowning at her pushing me out did nothing.
"Oh, so you're planning on cooking as well Hachi?" okasan asks I turn and answer,
"Well of course, can't have Komachi doing everything," I say as I heat up the stove and put oil on the pan, waiting for it to heat up, while Komachi adds seaweed into the miso soup. I guess she gave up on trying to cook everything herself.
"That's good to hear son, because your mother and I really enjoyed your curry last night." I notice Komachi pout a bit. Hmm is she jealous?
"I can't take all the credit, Komachi helped me with cooking too." Hopefully that will cheer her up a bit.
"Of course, Komachi your okasan and I love your cooking as well. Even though you are in your school's student council, you're still taking on the responsibilities of cooking for your okasan and otousan." Otousan says while setting down his tablet and looks directly at Komcahi, who beams at the praise.
"Not only that otousan, did you hear, Komachi here got 85s on her tests last week and it seems that her school ranking got bumped up because of that." Hopefully the praise I know otousan is going to give her boosts her mood, what a daughter-con….. hmmm maybe that's another reason I'm look like a 'sis-con' to others, it's not just because of Makoto.
"Indeed I did, actually both your okasan and I know about both of your accomplishments. I'm proud of you too Hachiman, your third in your school ranking for Japanese literature, history and English." Both Komachi and I look at each other surprised. We both make gazes at each other trying to communicate through sibling telepathy.
'Neehh, Komachi, I had no idea about this, did you?'
'No oni-chan, not at all.' Or at least that's how I want to justify the looks we are going each other, with the eyebrow motions.
"You know about all that otousan?" I ask, surprised that he knew about our school grades, both Komachi and I thought he would be drowning in work to give much notice in it.
"Both your otousan and I know about them, we get your grades forwarded directly to our work terminals, and we have to say we're both extremely proud of your accomplishments." Okasan says. She takes another sip of her coffee, and looks at us, while Komachi and I stand there looking dumbfounded.
"What, did you think that we wouldn't make time for the two of you? While we are extremely busy with work, that doesn't mean that we don't make time to make sure your studies go well. I mean what would be the point of having kids if we didn't take care of them?" Otousan says while reading the news again.
I give it a quick thought; I mean I guess that makes sense.
Both Komachi and I don't say anything and we go back to preparing breakfast.
After another 15 minutes all the fishes were done and so was the soup and rice. The four of us sit down and start chowing down. We don't say much as we Hikigayas take meal time together to be extremely important. For our parents it's one of those rare times where they aren't swamped at work, and how we can all eat together. It allowed us to just enjoy each other's presence without any thing to distract us or to worry about.
Otousan clears his throat, getting all of our attention. "Hachiman, what time are you supposed to be at the station?" I look at my phone quickly.
"I still have about an hour otousan, so I should probably get going soon." I start moving my finished plate to the kitchen.
"Hmmm is that so? Is Komachi going to be seeing you off?" I turn back to see her nodding. "Well then how about this, since your okasan and I are about to leave on another business trip, how about I drive us all to the station to see you off before we head to the airport?"
"Uhh sure otousan, but are you sure that you can still make it to your flight?" Really another business trip, so fast, they just got home not too long ago from another one. I guess time is money, especially in the business world.
"Yeah our flight isn't till 14:00 so we have plenty of time. Also you'll probably have to take a taxi or train back home Komachi." Otousan says as he finishes up the last of his soup.
"No worries, I was planning to anyway… but another trip, so soon, where are you and okasan going this time, didn't you just come back from Germany three weeks ago?" Komachi looks a bit sad as it seems like she's going to home alone until I get back from Kyoto.
Geeze Komachi, you make me want to hug you to make that sadness go away, but you'd probably call me a creep and otousan would probably scold me, that daughter-con.
"We're going to the US; it seems that the 1st branch in Massachusetts is having some problems with the local companies so your okasan and I are going to see if we can sort it out. [2] Don't worry Komachi, it'll only be two weeks maximum, so we'll be back to celebrate the holidays when Makoto gets back. Also we'll bring you souvenirs back for you as well alright?" He tries to do some damage control as he notices Komachi's mood.
Komachi nods and smiles at this, and I do as well, as it's been over a year since the five of us have been all together for a holiday, usually at least one of us is gone for a trip or for some other reason. It'll good to finally have a full Hikigaya reunion. We quickly finish the remaining food and load the dishwasher. After changing clothes and loading up both my parents' and my luggage in our car, we head off and drive towards the train station.
As we pull up by to the train station's drop-off area otousan stops the car, turning around to face us and he calls out.
"Hachiman, Komachi," we both look at him, "since the two of you have done so well school, your okasan and I decided to reward you for your hard work. Remember not to spend it all in one place and continue to work hard." He hands out an envelope to each of us. I grab mine and open it up. Looking at its contents, my eyes widen immediately, (which isn't much since they're dead) and I look over seeing Komachi have the same reaction. She squeals a bit before recovering first.
"EHHH?! What is this otousan?" Asks Komachi, as we both look up at him waiting for an answer.
"Well the two of you are growing up, and are taking on more responsibilities, so we wanted to give you this to not only to reward you, but to start having the two of you getting used to having some money and managing it. It's going to be an important life skill when you enter the working world, you don't want you recklessly spending it, even if you have a lot of disposable income. So your okasan thought this would be a good opportunity to get you started on managing a little bit, without you two having to dip into your savings." Otousan says while smiling at the two of us.
I'm left speechless, as I haven't ever received this much money before, and looking at Komachi's reaction she hasn't either. That's including the time she guilt-tripped me into giving her my Christmas present, not that my parents know about that though. I look back and quickly count the money again, and end up at 47,500 yen. [3]
I quickly bow my head, "Thanks, otousan, okasan, I won't let you down."
"Thanks, okasan, otousan! I will continue to try my best!"
Both my parents chuckle, "That's good to hear, and we know that both of you won't let us down. Now don't you have a train to catch Hachi?" Okasan says while smiling at me.
Ohh crap, I was so caught up by their act I nearly forgot why we were here in the first place. I quickly pocket my money in the envelope again before grabbing my bag and opening the car door.
"Crap, thanks okasan, otousan. I see you when you get back. Be safe Komachi; try not to miss me too much." I rush out and before I can hear a response, I close the door after me. As I make my way to the station, the family car pulls away, heading for the airport. When I reach the station I start to look for any of my classmates. It's not long after I see a girl with pink hair waving at me, and I start to head towards it. Soon enough I see Yuigahama excitedly talking to Yukinoshita about the upcoming trip.
"Good morning Hiki!" She yells out as she waves her arms out excitedly again.
Geeze Yuigahama not so loud, I know we're in a busy place, but we're getting weird looks from those around us.
I nod my head at her, "Good morning Yuigahama, Yukinoshita."
"Good morning Sleepygaya-kun. It seems that even with my warnings; you couldn't have gotten out of bed on time and arrived at the station at the predetermined time." Yukinoshita turns to me and immediately starts a barrage of insults.
I scoff, "For your information I woke up at the correct time, but was sidetracked by helping Komachi make breakfast for my parents."
"Arrra, was your food so bad that it caused your family to have stomach problems, delaying you even more, since it doesn't take that long to cook and eat food." Yukinoshita claims while starting to wear a smile on her face.
Wow she really isn't letting up. How does she think of these insults so fast? As far as I know I'm the only one she banters with, so unless she thinks of ways to belittle me in her free time, she must have a really quick brain for insults.
"No of course not. I would never make something to upset my parents' or Komachi's stomachs, and besides I'm a decent cook. Just ask Komachi if you don't believe me. In fact she loves it whenever I cook. It's just that we weren't expecting our parents to be up at that time, so it took longer to prepare the food. Also we happened to have a nice family chat," I smile thinking back to the praise that my parents gave me and Komachi for our hard work.
"Now Yukinon, I think that's enough teasing for now," Yuigahama says as she wags her finger at Yukinoshita and I trying to break up our 'fighting'.
Thanks Yuigahama, I can always count on you to cure debuffs that the Ice-queen throws out. Yukinoshita looks like she wants to say something more, but stops mid-way; I guess the key to stopping Yukinoshita is Yuigahama. They are the perfect couple then, one to balance out the other.
"Anyways Hiki, did your parents drive you here?" Yuigahama asks bringing me out of my thoughts.
"Yeah they did, they're heading to the airport to go on a business trip afterwards, so they decided to see me off with Komachi since it was on the way."
"Ahh really Komachi was here, I was hoping to say hi to her since I assumed she would be seeing you off." Yuigahama says while looking a bit sad.
"Indeed I expected Komachi-san to be the one that dragged you here; because of your sloth-like nature you would have missed the train." She smirks again.
She always has to get an insult in doesn't she? Ohh well it's not like I mind really, I've more or less have gotten used to it. Wait a moment, did I really just think that…. Crap I just admitted to myself that I'm used to having someone step on my pride… well, it's not like it's one sided, I send back insults whenever I can. If it was one sided, now that would be totally gross.
"Ohh really, at least I know how to get to the station without getting lost," ha take that Ice-queen, striking at one of her known weaknesses. Seriously, I still don't understand how she gets lost at inside the pet convention facility. Had Komachi and I not bumped into her I'm sure she would have never found the cat expedition. [4]
She doesn't say anything else, as she can't refute facts. I make a small smile at my victory.
"Anyways Yuigahama, I believe Komachi did want to say hello as well, but with how little our parents are around, she probably wanted to catch up with them as much as she could. Especially since they're about to be gone for another two weeks."
"Ohh really Hiki, are your parents gone a lot?"
"Yeah their job has them constantly busy year round, and even though they just got back from another trip a little under two weeks ago, they're being sent back out.
Anyways enough about that, let's get down to business. Have either of you thought about what we should do about the whole 'Tobe-kun situation'?" Yuigahama quickly puts on an expression like she's thinking, while Yukinoshita has a serious look on her face.
Yukinoshita is the first one to break the silence, "While I don't like backing out of our requests, I think we should try and stop his confession. I want to try and spare Tobe-san of any embarrassment and gossip that might follow if people find out about his confession and rejection."
I notice Yukinoshita had a pained look the entire time she spoke. Could she have seen something similar before…. Or even experienced it herself in the past?
Yuigahama breaks me out of my thoughts, "Really, would something like that happen afterwards? I don't think that anyone would spread rumors like that afterwards. Well I think that we shouldn't stop him, even if Tobe-san gets rejected, I don't feel like it's right for us to stop him from confessing his true feelings. I feel like it would create misunderstandings between everyone in the group, especially since Ooka and Yamato also know about it too. Also I feel like it wouldn't be too hard to keep the mood normal afterwards."
Yuigahama, you truly are amazing, even though it could break your group up, you still want to stick with it and help Tobe out. I don't think I could ever do that. However it seems like most of their group already knows that Tobe is going to confess and wants him to be stopped, or at least all the known people.
"What about you Hiki, what's you think we should do?" Before I can respond, I notice Tobe walking up to us.
"Good morning Tobe." I greet him to let the others know that he's here and we that we should talk about it later.
"Sup' guys. Ohh man am I excited for this trip. I can't wait." Tobe puts on a cheerful smile.
"Yahallo Tobe-kun!" Yuigahama yells, and Yukinoshita nods. Good it seems they caught on.
"Good morning Tobe-san. Unfortunately it seems that Ebina-san has paired up with Yuigahama, Miura-san, and Kawasaki-san for the train ride to Kyoto, but do not worry as we have planned some other places for you to be together as well." Straight to business I see Yukinoshita.
Wait I thought that Yukinoshita wanted to stop his confession…. Hmmmm. Ahh I see, it would be weird if we stopped helping him right now, we need to find a way to quietly stop it because if we stop helping him right off the bat then he'd get suspicious of it. That could ruin the plan all together. Nice work Yukinoshita. I make a small nod, letting her know that I knew what she's up to.
Yukinoshita nods back. Yuigahama gives Yukinoshita a surprised look, but I mouth to her 'later' and she understands.
"Great, thanks guys I knew I could count on you. Well looks like my group is here, better join up with them. We'll meet later on to go over the plan right?" Tobe says while turning around and skipping away in joy back towards his group.
"Indeed Tobe, good luck." I say before focusing on our group again.
As soon as Tobe is out of hearing range Yukinoshita and I explain to Yuigahama that it would be weird to stop helping him all of a sudden. Yuigahama nods in understanding, but still has troubled look on her face.
Soon enough we hear an announcement from one of the teachers saying that our train has arrived, and we head over to the platform. As we make it to the platform, we see the cleaning crew exit the train. Hayama and his clique enter it soon afterwards. We follow their lead and our class files in afterwards. After entering the car I make my way to a seat. I reach up and put my travel bag in the overhead compartment and sit down on the aisle seat.
Then I feel a tap on my shoulder, "Hey Hachiman, you dropped this," I turn around and see Totsuka holding the envelope my parents gave me, "Some of it fell out too, here's the rest." He hands me some the money that fell out of the envelope.
Crap, forgot to close the envelope properly since I was in a rush to get to the station. "Ohh thanks Totsuka," I stand up and grab the envelope, quickly recount the money and put it all back inside, making sure to properly seal it this time. I quickly take my seat afterwards. But notice the stares of my classmates.
"Uhh Hachiman, where did you get all that money from, that was at least a couple of ten thousand yen notes." Totsuka puts on a worried expression.
"Indeed Hikigaya-kun I knew you were a petty criminal, but I didn't expect for you to actually commit crimes to earn that amount. How will Komachi-san react when she finds out her brother is a criminal?" Yukinoshita butts in, as her class was also seated in our train car.
"Ohh this? This was given to me by my parents for ranking third in most of the school subjects this past testing term. If you don't believe me you can ask Komachi too, she also got money from our parents for doing well too." I ignore Yukinoshita's comment, like I would ever become a criminal. That would not only jeopardize my family image, but also break Komachi's and Makoto's hearts if that happened. As the only other male in the household besides otousan, I can't let that happen.
I start to reach into by backpack and grab A Brave New World again, hoping I could finish it on the trip so I can move on to the next book on my list. However as I finished grabbing it I notice that I'm still getting some stares from my classmates.
"Umm is something the matter?"
"Yeah Hiki, it's just…. Ummm how do I put this…?" Yuigahama stops and looks off to the side, thinking on what to say.
"That's a lot of money you got, are you rich or something Hikitani-kun?" Tobe blurts, finishing off what I assume to be Yuigahama's thoughts.
"Tobe, let's not pry into Hikitani-kun's private life like that," states Hayama.
Well I get the gesture, trying to get others to back off on my case. Or it could be he's trying to use me as an example, he doesn't want people asking him about his own personal life. That could be it, but I don't think that Hayama had that intention. Anyways, if I don't say anything then it'll probably lead to more questions in the end and wild speculation.
Why do people always go for the most illogical explanation for things? Sigh. Most people think I look like a Yakuza, let's not add more fuel for that thought.
"It's alright Hayama, I don't mind explaining. My parents saw both my imouto's and my test scores from the tests a little while ago, and they decided that it would be a good idea to give us a bit more responsibility while rewarding us for our hard work. They thought it would be a good time to try and teach us how to be wise with our money." I say facing Hayama, before turning and facing Totsuka and the rest.
"Ahh that makes sense, but it's still quite a bit of money to use a test don't you think?" Totsuka is the first to speak after my explanation.
"That's true, but I guess that my parents are confident that we won't waste it all."
With that, while there was still some muttering, there aren't any more questions. Then the train signals that we are about to depart the station, so everyone starts to take their seats. I was about to start reading again, but I remembered I still haven't told Yukinoshita or Yuigahama my opinion on what to do yet.
Hmmmm, the best way is probably by text since it would be hard to talk to them alone without drawing suspicion. I pull out my phone to send a quick text to Yuigahama.
To Yuigahama:
I figured this would be easier than talking it out since we don't want anyone to overhear us. So in the end I've decided to help Hayama and try to keep your group intact. While it is a bit cruel to stop Tobe from confessing, I feel like it's the best option. If we have Tobe try and show Ebina over a longer period of time that he's a good guy and get them to talk more about each other, then that could get Ebina to open up more to him and then maybe they could go out afterwards. Also this technically means that we aren't going back on Tobe's request, we can still help him confess, it just won't be when we're in Kyoto. In addition, we'll still help Tobe create situations to hang out with Ebina, so it won't seem suspicious that we'd stop helping him all of a sudden. Can you forward this to Yukinoshita as well, I don't have her number.
After reading a page or two from my book, I get a reply.
From Yuigahama:
I sent it to Yukinon and she agrees. I guess I'm on board as well too, I want to make sure Tobe-kun can confess his feelings though.
To Yuigahama:
That's good to hear that we all agree. Do you mind giving me Hayama's number so I can tell him our decision?
From Yuigahama:
Aren't you sitting right across from him, why don't you just tell him in person?
To Yuigahama:
That's true but it would look weird if I suddenly asked him to have a chat with me. I'd rather not draw attention to it at all. Hayama, Tobe, Totsuka and I are in the same group for the trip there, but it would be hard to talk to Hayama about it without anyone else noticing.
From Yuigahama:
Ok Hiki that makes sense, here I just sent it.
After receiving it, I quickly start formulating a text.
To Hayama:
Hey Hayama, it's Hikigaya. The Service Club has talked and we've decided to side with you and your groups' decision. However that doesn't mean we've given up on Tobe, we'll still help him in the meantime as it would be too weird if we stopped helping him out of nowhere. So please let Ebina know of our decision, and that she should at least give Tobe a chance before completely rejecting him.
Expecting another text soon, I don't bother pick up my book again, since the notification will make me lose my place and I'll have to reread the section again.
Instead I half pay attention to the conversation that Totsuka is having with Tobe. Something about the school's sports team and their standings. Soon enough I receive a response from Hayama saying that he understands and he thanks us for helping him and will let Ebina know later on.
With that settled, I put my phone away, open up my book, and start to read again.
As the train starts to pick up speed, the others around me start to talk about what they wanted to do when we get to Kyoto, but I block it out and try to concentrate on my book. I really want to be able to finish it on this trip.
After about another two hours we had finally reached Kyoto. As the train pulled into the station I set my book back into my backpack. I stayed seated for a bit as we were seated towards the middle of the train car, meaning that like on an airplane, it would be a while until everyone ahead of us would have cleared out.
Soon enough the train clears up enough that I can grab my luggage from the overhead compartment. After exiting the train station we reach the bus terminal where each of the classes was assigned to a bus. The seating for the bus was done by twos, and with Ebina sticking with Kawasaki, again there wasn't much room for Tobe to get closer to Ebina. This wasn't a setback however, because soon we would be arriving at a nearby temple. There we would be able to break out into small groups, allowing Tobe to possibly get to spend more time with Ebina.
I stand corrected in my last thought. All too soon our first day in Kyoto was ending and Tobe was no closer to confessing to Ebina. It seemed that Tobe was starting to lose some of his motivation. As the trip went on it was quite apparent that no matter where we were or what situation we arrived at, Ebina would always be surrounded with others from their clique. It made it hard for Tobe to spend time with her and try to get her to warm up to him. Soon enough we arrived back at out hotel and everyone separated to head back into their rooms.
Since we finally had some down time, I elected to head to the lobby to gather my thoughts on today's events, since it should be relatively empty at this time. I find a couch in the lobby and sit down, with my hands on my face, with my elbows on my knees, looking down trying to think things through.
I know we promised Hayama that we would help him try and keep his clique together, but are the end results really worth it? It's not like I don't have my own agenda for helping Hayama. Tobe, while he is a loud mouth and an idiot, he doesn't deserve to be treated like that, especially from his friends. I need to talk to Ebina to see if she can drop hints for Tobe that she isn't looking for a relationship right now. Or if that doesn't work out, try to have either Yuigahama, or I tell him. I think Yukinoshita would be too blunt or her words wouldn't have an effect on him since they aren't that close.
After deciding on trying to get Ebina to drop some hints, I stand back up but I notice that there is a souvenir shop and then remember Komachi's list of gifts that I was supposed to acquire.
I guess this can be my first test at money management. Do I shop here for the convenience of location or do I wait later on and see if there are cheaper places, but run the risk of not having enough time to get everything or the shops not having them.
Well it doesn't hurt to start looking here, let's see what's on this list. Ahh right the limited edition Pan-san, looks like they have some here. I grab a basket and start walking around. Hmmm, looks like Komachi wants two of them, probably one for her and one for Makoto. It seems like it's my lucky day, as there were only two left.
I grab the two, but before placing them in my basket I take a closer look at them. I turn the plushy all around trying to see if there was anything different from the normal one we have at home, so far the only thing different is that he's wearing a yukata. I quickly look up the price for a normal one on my phone, and see that there is a price difference for them. No surprise there. Is the clothing difference really worth the price hike? I hug the Pan-san trying to see if it's softer than the one we have at home, and then rub it against my face to see if it's softer material wise or anything. It was, but still I don't think it's worth the price. Whatever, it'll get me a ton of points, so it worth it.
Well I guess the small changes are so the company can make as many versions as they want with little effort so they can milk the Pan-san fans for as much money as they can. Ahh capitalism at its finest. I release the plushy and place it into my basket.
What else is next? Hmmm a key chain of the Rokuon-ji Temple, a bit tacky in my opinion but who am I to judge, it's not like I have a great fashion sense according to Komachi. What's the point of matching clothing anyways, as long as it fits and it's functional I don't think it should really matter too much on how I look.
As I dwell in my thoughts another figure enters the shop. As the door makes the noise notifying another customer, I look up and see the side of the person. They have nice long flowing black hair. It seems that Yukinoshita is also here to buy some souvenirs. She seems to have just exited the showers, as her hair is still wet and messy. I don't think I have ever seen her in such a messy state, not even when Yuigahama and I visited her apartment when she was sick, from overworking herself during the culture festival.
I see her make her way to the Pan-san merchandise and she lets out a frustrated sigh when she notices that there were no more Pan-san plushies. I start to browse the other merchandise in the store, but can still hear her.
"Excuse me," she asks a clerk, "do you have any more Pan-san plushies?"
"Unfortunately those have been extremely popular and there are no more in the stockroom, so if there are no more out in the shop, we are out. We are however due to get our next shipment of them in four days. Sorry for the inconvenience." The clerk explains and respectfully bows to Yukinoshita.
I peak back at her to see her expression. I wonder if she'll pout since the shop is out.
"I see thank you." Yukinoshita keeps a neutral expression, but her body language suggests that she is irritated that she was not able to acquire her beloved Pan-san plushy.
I sigh and walk up to her. "Yo Yukinoshita," I call out to her.
She turns around, "Good evening Hikigaya-kun, you scared me for a moment, I mistook you for a ghost prowling about."
"Ha ha very funny. Anyways, are you also here to buy souvenirs?"
"Have you been stalking me Hiki-pervert-kun, how did you know?" She wraps her arms around her in mock horror, trying to protect herself.
Oh please it's not like you have much of a chest to protect anyways.
"Well one, It's not a particularly large shop. Two I noticed that there is Pan-san merchandise here," I point back over to the Pan-san displays, "and three, why else would you be in a souvenir shop?" Before she can respond I say "anyways, were you looking for one of these?" I point to the Pan-sans in my shopping basket.
"Indeed I was, but it seems like the shop has run out and won't be getting more until after the trip is over." She sulks a bit, which was quite cute I might add.
Was she sulking that I logically defeated her claim of me being a stalker, or was it because she isn't able to get her beloved Pan-san? It's probably a combination of both since she really enjoys insulting me and Pan-san merchandise as well.
"Here take one of mine then," I try to hand her one of the ones in my basket, "It's no big deal anyways, Komachi should be content with one, especially with all the other stuff I'm bringing back."
Ohh crap I hope I didn't hand her the one I smothered myself with. Well, even it was it's too late now, and I don't think she'll notice, unless she smells it and then smells me. Wait; knowing who she is, she probably will smell it to compare it to the ones she has at home, crap. Well I know for a fact she won't smell me so I'm safe there.
"Ohh no Hikigaya-kun, you got those fair and square, it wouldn't be fair if I just took one from you," as she is saying this I notice that her eyes are glued to the plushy in question… not very convincing there Yukinoshita.
"That is true that I did get them, so here," I shove one into her hands, "now I'm giving it to you."
"I see, thank you Hikigaya-kun." She blushes and accepts it.
See that wasn't so hard now was it? I pick up my basket and head for the cash register to pay for my things. As the clerk is ringing up my total, I notice that there are a variety of postcards. I should get one for Makoto, I think that she would enjoy one as she does collect these. I pick one up and hand it to the clerk as well.
After paying for my order, I pick my bag up and see Yukinoshita get her order rung up. It seems that she is getting a Pan-san as well as a few other mementos. I head out of the shop and as I start to make my way to the lobby again, I wonder if there were any drinks machines nearby. I think I saw some earlier by the couches when I was sitting, then I heard my name called out.
"Hikigaya-kun"
I turn around and see that it was Yukinoshita. She had something in her hand besides her bag of souvenirs.
My eyes widen. Can it be? Do my eyes deceive me? There's no mistake, it is the legendary Georgia Max-Coffee. I quickly close my mouth to make sure I don't drool over its sight. I don't want to give more ammunition to Yukinoshita to insult me with.
"Yes Yukinoshita, is there something you need?" I quickly say to hopefully distract her from commenting on my appearance when I saw she was holding the drink.
"Ummm yes, there is something I wanted to give you." While she makes glances at me every so often, she doesn't make eye contact with me the entire time. "I wanted to thank you for a-allowing me to have your P-pan-san p-plushy. So here please accept this as a token of my gratitude." She makes a move to hand me the Max Coffee in her hand.
"Ohh it's nothing Yukinoshita, you didn't have to get me this." What are you saying mouth?! Just accept the damned coffee. You know you need it. You can't even peel your eyes off of it, just give in and accept it.
"Your eyes and body language say something else Hikigaya-kun. Please accept it, if not I will just have to throw it away since it is way too sugary for my tastes." She says as she finally makes eye contact with me and starts smirking.
"Very well then, we wouldn't want that happening now would we? I thank you Yukinoshita." I move my hand to grab the drink from hers, but in my excitement and rush to grab the can, my hand ever so slightly brushes against hers. Both our cheeks redden at the sudden contact, and we both quickly pull away our hands, mine with the coffee of course.
Wanting to get my mind off of that I quickly open the can and take a sip. Ahh, Max coffee, you never fail to brighten up my day. I set down my bag and take a seat on a nearby couch and to my surprise Yukinoshita follows suit and sits down next to me.
"Anyways how is the request going so far? I'm sorry I haven't been much help since I'm in a different class." Yukinoshita says after putting down her bag and looks at me.
Woah, I'm really close to her now, and she's looking directly at me. Keep calm Hachiman, it's just Yukinoshita.
"Its fine, I haven't done much either. However it seems that Ebina is pulling out all the stops to always be in a group with others, so Tobe can't closer to her or anything of the sort. I guess that's one way to deter him from confessing, but I don't think that alone will stop him."
As we continue to converse, Hiratsuka-sensei walks by us in long coat and sunglasses. Both Yukinoshita and I look at each other before looking at sensei again and raise our eyebrows at her antics. She looked at us bewildered when she noticed us sitting.
"H-hello there. What are you two doing?" She asked us nervously.
"We were just buying some souvenirs and happened to run into each other. What about you sensei?" I answer, curious at her get up and attitude at being caught.
"Well…. Ummm please keep this a secret, but… you see, I was going to go out for some ramen." She says while looking around and acting all flustered.
Yukinoshita and I remain silent... ramen sensei really? Her reactions were cute, but really, how old are you?
"How about this, if I take you two with me will you two keep quiet about this?" Sensei asks while look at us with a flicker of hope in her eyes.
Ramen for buying my silence? Normally I would jump to get a one up on sensei, but then again, free food. Also I haven't been able to try Kyoto's ramen, screw it free food is the best.
"Very well sensei, you have my word," I answer.
"What about you Yukinoshita, will you comply with my request?" Sensei asks with a flicker of hope in her eyes.
"I don't know, I'm not really dressed for going out." She responds while looking over her attire.
Right, she was wearing light clothing, and her hair was still wet from the shower. I guess that's what happens when you have long hair; it takes an eternity to dry, even with a hair dryer. Although it does look very nice.
"That's not a problem here," Hiratsuka-sensei takes off her long jacket and drapes it over Yukinoshita.
Wow sensei that was pretty cool, like straight out of a shonen manga…. Wait a moment, that's probably where she copied it from. Again sensei, how old is you?
"Alright, let's get going." Sensei says while taking the lead.
We quickly drop off our souvenirs in our respective rooms, with Hiratsuka-sensei walking us to each of our rooms to make sure we don't ditch her.
I guess she's had enough people skip out on outings with her, so she wants to makes sure we don't. Geeze sensei, she is either trying to make sure we won't back away, which we won't since there is food involved and Yukinoshita doesn't lie, or this is how she acts in her relationships. How much sadder can your life get?
As I delve in my thoughts, we head back to the lobby and sensei waves down a taxi for us. After a short amount of time we pile in and sensei tells the driver the location.
After finishing our late night snack, it seems that Hiratsuka-sensei still have some things she wanted to do. AKA buying Sake for a drinking session.
She quickly waved us off and walked off in the opposite direction of the hotel. I was too distracted by her words earlier about her looking over us, as well as Yukinoshita's reaction with her first brush with ramen, to make a snarky comment about going out and getting booze; damn I wish I had taken a picture of Yukinoshita's reaction though.
As I was dwelling in my thoughts, Yukinoshita started heading back ahead of me, so I put my hands into my pocket and fell in step behind her. Soon enough we make it to an intersection and Yukinoshita stops. She looks repeatedly to both sides. It seems that she still has a bad sense of direction. I whistle out to her and point my head to the right.
She blushes and nods, then starts walking again, but the look on her face showed that she's not very sure of where we are. She continually looks left and right as she walks along, like she's looking for street signs. At this point if this continues on we'll never make it back, so I quicken my pace and take the lead. Yukinoshita doesn't say anything but follows behind me, about 10 paces or so.
After a while I slow down to fix my scarf and get it tighter around my frame. While doing this I noticed that I could barely hear Yukinoshita's footsteps. I look over my shoulder and I notice that she was considerably further back than before. I call out to her.
"Oi, if you don't keep up, you're going to get lost."
She buries herself into Hiratsuka-sensei's jacket by hugging it tighter across her frame. Her mouth moves but I can't hear anything, so I stop and wait for her to catch up. She stops too and neither of us moves at all for a moment
"I'm fine if you go on ahead without me." She says quietly while not making eye contact with me.
"It's fine the hotel is just over that crest." I say trying to hurry her along.
"It might be fine for you but not for me."
What, why wouldn't it be fine? I don't say anything waiting for her to continue.
"Well… being seen together… this late at night… it's a bit…" She says with red cheeks and hugger herself with in her coat, either from the cold or to hide her embarrassment.
As soon as she said it the connotations hit me like truck. I feel my cheeks heat up immediately. "I see," if anyone were to see us enter the hotel at this hour, rumors would definitely spread. I don't need any more attention after Sagami and all her crap.
"I'll head back first then, just make sure not to fall to far behind, don't want you getting lost."
I quickly turn around and start walking to hide my blush. I'm fairly sure Yukinoshita didn't catch it as she was looking down the entire time. I hear her footsteps not long afterwards. I make sure to keep a slow pace so I wouldn't lose her. While we weren't walking side by side, we weren't far enough that she would lose sight of me, even though there weren't many street lights on the path back.
Soon enough the hotel comes into view. Crap, there is a high chance of students being ahead, we should separate here just in case there are. I stop and let Yukinoshita take the lead. I guess she thought of the same thing too, as she doesn't say anything.
"Well here we are," I wave it her, "I guess I'll see you tomorrow."
"Indeed, good night Hikigaya-kun…. And thanks… for… uhh... accompanying me back. I'll see you tomorrow," she waves back at me before turning around and walking towards her room.
I turn, and head back to my hotel room. Quickly entering I notice the others were playing Mahjong. They ask me to join, as tempting as it was since Totsuka was playing too, but I decline. I still had to think of a solution on how to have Tobe know that Ebina doesn't want to be in a relationship and without having to have him getting out right rejected.
Laying down on my bed and placing my arms behind my head I try and rack my brain for an answer but nothing comes to mind. Maybe I should have asked Hiratsuka-sensei, she is always there to look out for us.
However I feel like this subject would hit to close to home for as she is still single…. Hmmm, who else can I ask? Komachi might be a good choice, since she is a social animal, but I don't believe that she has ever had anyone confess to her. Thank goodness for that, or otou-san and I would need to take care of some things, but because of that I don't think she could give me an answer.
I mean I could confess to Ebina right before Tobe does, but that's just a scummy move on my part. Also that would bring more attention focused on me, which is something that I don't need right now. In addition when Komachi does make it into Sobu, I don't want people to judge her just because I'm her brother, then they might just place the same labels on her that they already do to me. So yeah, that goes out the window.
Wait a moment, there is still someone who is just as a big as of a social animal as Komachi and has a lot of experience like Hiratsuka-sensei. That's right; I could always ask Makoto for help. I quickly sit up and pull out my phone to start texting her.
To Makoto:
Hey Makoto, I'm in a bit of a bind and could use your advice.
I send the text not really expecting a quick response, so I set my phone down to let it charge and head back over to the main room. I see that the guys were still playing mahjong and sit down nearby to watch for a bit. It was surprising to see that Totsuka was actually pretty good at the game.
After watching a couple more games of Totsuka cleaning out the others I decided to head back into my room and check back on my phone. I was surprised to see that there was a new message.
From Makoto:
What's this Hachiman, for once you're not trying to shoulder everything by yourself? I'm so proud of you; you're finally growing up out of your shell. Sure, I can clear some time up for little brother.
I look at the time stamp for when the text was sent. Wow, five minutes after I sent mine. That's a pretty quick response, considering the time difference. I hope she hasn't been just waiting on me to send a message back.
To Makoto:
Thanks Makoto, I'm sorry to trouble you with something like this even though you're really busy with school and the company. Anyways I'm having this problem, an acquaintance of mine wants to confess to someone in his friend group during the trip, but she already has decided to turn him down because she doesn't want things to change as it's hard for her to make friends. Also the others of the group also don't want it to happen as they also feel it would ruin the group's atmosphere. I've agreed to help them out with stopping it and can get help from some of those in the group. Do you have any advice on how I should approach this? So far the girl is already always sticking to a group during the trip so there isn't any time for the guy to get closer to her.
I don't mention Yuigahama as my inside help, since I don't want this to derail into Makoto interrogating me about our relationship, since she would just get entirely the wrong idea, especially since there is only so much that can be conveyed over text or talking over the phone vs talking in person.
I receive a response very quickly.
From Makoto:
Nehh Hachiman, getting into the business of your classmates, that's so unlike you. You usually stick to yourself and keep quiet. Did being put in that club of yours start to make you change?
Hmm she's right. Before joining I couldn't have cared less if this happened to them. I actually would have probably enjoyed watching the top social clique fall apart, but now I do care. Was it me wanting to take on more responsibilities or was it because Hiratsuka-sensei?
To Makoto:
I guess that's a part of it, but that's not the only reason. Hayama Hayato is a part of that group and he was one of them to ask me for help
Within the minute of sending the text a song starts playing from my phone. What could it be? I think I hit the 'play' button for the music player. I look done at my phone to try and see what's wrong with it.
Incoming call from Makoto:
Ohh, it's a phone call, ops. Recovering from my gaff, I swipe to answer and bring my phone up to my ear.
[Hachiman, you there?]
"Yes Makoto, I'm here"
[Alright, anyways I see, so you're trying to make him owe you one and garner favor with him for the future.]
I don't say anything in response and wait for her to continue.
[Anyways for your problem, you could try and create an atmosphere where the entire clique hangs out and starts questioning each other about who they like. Then they can ask the girl who is going to be confessed to if she likes anyone. You can probably see where to go with the rest of it. She'll say no and then etc.]
That's actually a pretty good idea, no rejection and it can be executed pretty easily.
[Another idea is that if she already knows that she is going to be confessed to, just have her continue staying in a group the entire time. That way the boy might get deterred from confessing, and then to finish it off you could then ask him if he's made any progress. If he answers no, then you could suggest for him to hold off on confessing. However that second one might just make the group tenser as that boy might continue trying to get closer, which would strain the group's relations. Personally I would suggest the first one as the second one is more patch work, and crueler as it gives that boy false hope.]
Yeah I think I would like to avoid that second one if I can. I'd rather not drag this out for Tobe or give him any false hope.
I hear a heavy intake of breath from Makoto that snaps me out of thought.
[Final word though Hachiman, I know how twisted your ideas can be but don't even think about fake confessing to stop that boy from doing it. Not only is that degrading, I don't want you to turn back into what you were like after that girl rejected you in middle school. You're finally opening up again according to Komachi and I don't want you to retreat back into your shell. I'm sorry that I wasn't there to comfort you, even though I was the one who pushed you to open up. I'm a useless older sister that couldn't even comfort my little brother when he was hurting.]
Makoto's tone gets more regretful and her voice smaller towards the end.
Hmm seems like she already saw one of my plans, proves that she really is my sister, she knows me so well. I quickly gather my thoughts and comfort my older sister.
"Makoto-nee, how many times did I tell you? While you did push me to be more open, ultimately it was my choice to go through with the confession. I did it without realizing that's how Orimoto was to everyone. I have never blamed you for what happened, and never will."
I walk over with my phone still pressed up against my ear and sit down on the chair in the room.
"I didn't think everything through and I had to deal with the consequences. Also it's not your fault that you couldn't be there; you were in England for school, and what happened did not warrant you interrupting your studies, and getting a plane ticket to come back home. So please stop blaming yourself for something that I did. I take full responsibility for it."
That's truly how I felt; I never have and never will blame her for what happened. It was all on me. She even wanted to drop everything and come home to take care of me, she's such a bro-con, but I love that about her. Someone that is there that cares. No strings attached or ulterior motives, just her genuinely caring for me.
I hear what I think is some muffled sniffling from the other side.
[Geeze Hachiman, you really are too kind to me. When I come home for break, you and Komachi need to keep your schedules clear, we need to spend more time together. You still have to tell me about that club of yours.]
I smile a little, what a doting older sister. Even though she has enough on her plate with school and her career in the company, she still wants to spend all the time she can teasing me and Komachi, what a pain. But I don't think I would want it any other way.
"Of course Makoto, Komachi and I wouldn't miss it for the world. One last thing by the way, when did you start liking Pan-san the Panda?" I might as well ask her, to see if Komachi was just being lazy with a gift for her.
[Pan-san the Panda, isn't that the panda with the weird eyes like yours? Hmmm I don't really have a strong like towards it. I guess that it does look kind of cute. Why do you ask?]
"Well Komachi wanted me to buy two of the Kyoto editions of Pan-san, so I was wondering if the second one was for you. Unfortunately I was only able to get one." Don't want to mention what happened with Yukinoshita either, that's a mine I don't want step on.
[Oh really? Well I wouldn't mind having one; it's just I'm not particularly dying to have it. Anyways is that all Hachiman?]
"Yeah it was Makoto, thanks for the advice it sure helped me a lot."
Hmm if it wasn't for Makoto, then who was the second plushy for?
[No worries I'm just doing my duty you as your onee-chan, so there's no need to thank me. Ohh I bet that earned me a lot of points! Anyways good night Hachiman, it must be late there.]
I looked at the clock, 22:00. I guess it is and we do have to get up early tomorrow for more exploring.
"Yes yes, you got a lot of points. Good night Makoto and good luck with exams." I finish my farewell and then set my phone down. I guess I have a plan on what to do now regarding Tobe's confession. I'll tell Yukinoshita and Yuigahama the details tomorrow.
[1] One of my favorite songs that is from the Evangelion Rebuild series. Has been for years and it still holds up to this day
[2] Reference to the Evangelion series. NERV's first branch is in Massachusetts. Just a little reference I thought I'd throw, however NERV or anything isn't a part of this universe.
[3] 47,500 Yen is roughly $450 US
[4] Hachiman and Komachi went to a pet show in Tokyo and bumped into Yukinoshita who completely was lost looking for the cat exhibit. This is right before Hachiman and Yukino went on their 'date' at the mall looking for gifts for Yuigahama.
Hello world, another update from me. I have changed a few lines from the third chapter for some small plot holes. I'll list them here for convenience. In the third chapter there was mention of when Komachi and Hachiman was going to pick up Makoto from the airport that she was going to drive them back home, that line was fixed and talks about how Makoto got the car as a reward for doing so much work, but was left at the airport's car park since she left back for England shortly after it as Hachiman and Komachi cannot drive. The other fix is towards the end of the chapter when Hachiman talks about why he knows about Hayama's family, it was because of the company possibly using Hayama's parent's law firm in the future.
Anyways that's it for the changes to chapter three. Again thanks for reading and reviewing! See you all next time.
