Today is finally Sunday, the day I'll propose to Iroha. Even though it's getting redundant in my thoughts, I still can't help but feel a bit anxious. No matter how many times I tell myself that it's not a big deal, I end up panicking anyway. All I have to do is show her a ring and ask her a simple question. Hell, I even know the answer already, so there's really no reason for me to worry.

It's only the morning yet I can't seem to calm down. While I was in distress, I took a glance towards my side to see my sly and crafty girlfriend clinging onto me while she was still peacefully sleeping. Even though I practically see her sleeping expression almost everyday, I never get tired of it.

Ah whatever, I can worry about it all later. First, I need to cook breakfast since it's been my duty ever since I graduated from university. Initially, the two of us agreed to take turns when it came to cooking but eventually, all the responsibility got dumped onto me. I don't mind it though since I'm going to be a househusband in the future anyway. I might as well get used to it now.

With that decided, I released myself from Iroha's grasp and made my way towards the kitchen. I then reheated some of the leftovers from last night. We're going out later for lunch so there's no real reason to have a fancy breakfast. As the food finished heating, Iroha came out of the bedroom drowsy looking with messy hair, a sight she never shows to anyone else but me.

"What's for breakfast senpai..." She said in a groggy voice as she rubbed her eyes a bit. I swear for an energetic person like her, she acts like a complete slob in the morning. I may be partly responsible for it though...

"Just some leftovers. We're going out for lunch, so I don't want to eat too much." I replied as I took the leftovers out of the microwave. Iroha just gave me a slight nod then walked towards her seat.

Breakfast was the same as usual. Once Iroha started eating a bit, she returned to her energetic self. This prompted her to start talking non-stop. I don't know how she does it but she never runs out of things to say whether it would be about my job, her studies, her usual complaints or something interesting she saw . She even manages to slip in some teasing and flirting into it. Normally the whole idea of engaging in something like this would irritate me but oddly enough, it doesn't. I don't know if it's because of the content of the conversation or if it's because Iroha is the one speaking, but I never get bored of this. It must be a side effect of being in a romantic relationship for a couple of years.

After we finished eating, we made our way towards the bathroom in order to get ready for lunch. Thinking about it now, showering and taking baths together has become a regular occurrence for the two of us. At first, the two of us would be extremely embarrassed whenever we attempted to go to the bathroom together. Now though, it barely fazes us anymore. It still doesn't stop us from having certain thoughts appear in my minds though.

"Where are we going this time senpai?" Iroha asked me as the two of us were resting inside the bath. Luckily for me, we go out for a fancy lunch every now and then, so she has no reason to suspect something like a proposal.

"A traditional Japanese restaurant." To be exact, a traditional restaurant that pretty secluded. I know it's unavoidable for people to see the proposal but at the very least, there won't be that many people to see it. I would've honestly preferred to just propose at home but when I told that idea to Yui, Yukino, Komachi and Ryoko, they all reprimanded me. They said that I have to make it special by doing it somewhere fancy. I don't understand the logical behind that but I went with it anyway.

"Wow senpai, I'm impressed. Normally when it's your turn to choose, you would just pick Saize or some ramen joint."

"Oi, not like there's anything wrong with those places."

"I know, I know. I'm just wondering though senpai, what's the occasion?"

"Nothing much really. I just feel like eating traditional food is all."

"Whatever you say senpai."

The two of us then continued to relax in the bath together. After around half an hour, the both of us left the bathroom and proceeded to the bedroom in order to get dressed. Since we're going to a somewhat fancy restaurant, that means we need to dress up for the occasion. At times like these, Iroha chooses my clothes for me. According to her, I have a horrible taste in fashion which I can't particularly deny since I don't give a single damn about it.

In the end, I settled with a simple short-sleeved black collared shirt and some jeans. Iroha on the other hand wore something way flashier. She was wearing a frilly red short-sleeved blouse and a medium length white skirt all while wearing a white beret on her head. I still don't understand why she tries so hard when it comes to her outfits.

One thing I noticed though is that she doesn't bother with make-up. Normally for women her age, they would always use make-up to make sure they look attractive. People like that are shallow and value outer appearance way too much. A bit curious about it, I decided to ask her.

"Why I don't use make-up? What's with the weird question senpai?"

"It's nothing major. I was just curious since I've never seen you actually wear it. I thought it was normal for women of this age to put on a lot of make-up."

"That is true I guess. Although my reason isn't all that special."

"Hmm?"

"I'm just too lazy to bother. Wearing make-up all the time is tedious and expensive. I was kinda into it before in high school but ever since university started, I lost interest. Maybe it's actually all your fault senpai."

"Oi, don't accuse me of every single bad habit of yours."

"It's a bit suspicious though. Ever since I moved in with you, my habits have been changing."

"That's probably some coincidence or something. You can't just pin all the blame on me."

"Whatever you say senpai. Besides, not like I need make-up. I'm already charming and cute as it is right senpai?"

"Y-Yeah, you are."

"Good, just making sure. Now let's go!"

After making sure everything was secure, the two of us left the apartment and headed towards the restaurant. Before we left though, I made sure that the ring was in my pocket. Luckily, I managed to sneak it in while Iroha wasn't looking. It would've been completely embarrassing if I were to forget the ring as I was proposing. Otherwise, the amount of shame would be unbearable to the point that even someone like me will feel bad.

Looking at the time, it's 11 am right now. The reservation is still at noon, so we decided to take our time going there. Like always, Iroha was clinging onto my arm as we were walking. I got so accustomed to this that it doesn't even bother me anymore. I have a feeling that she just does this out of habit at this point given how many times she's done it.

On our way there, we admired the sights while also having some idle conversations. Oddly enough, the both of us find this small act pretty satisfying. Given how long we've been together, we naturally find ways to keep ourselves entertained with one another. Most people aren't capable of this which results in some cracks in their relationships. For us though, something like that isn't a problem whatsoever. To be honest, I actually enjoy it even though it goes against some of my personal beliefs. I can also tell that Iroha enjoys it evident by her constant smiling.

Before the two of us even realized it, we arrived to our destination. After checking the time on my phone, it seems like we barely made it in time. Once I confirmed my reservation with the staff, they let us into the restaurant.

The moment we entered, I was immediately impressed by the interior design. They weren't kidding when they said that they're a traditional restaurant. The floor was completely covered with tatami mats while the walls were decorated with various classical artworks. Even the low tables and cushions gave enhanced the traditional feeling. Although it wasn't anything too fancy, the ambience was still very impressive. When I looked towards Iroha, it seemed like she too was impressed by it all.

"I'm surprised Senpai. I can't believe you found a place as good as this."

"I was just lucky really. I just randomly found this place I while I was randomly surfing the web."

"That's something you would totally do senpai... At least you made a good choice this time."

A server then approached us regarding our reservation. Once I gave them my name and confirmed it, they led us to our seats. Just like I planned, they gave us a corner spot which was isolated from the other tables. No way in hell am I going to let strangers witness something this embarrassing.

Once we settled down, we scrolled through the menu to see if there was anything that caught our attention. After a while, we both decided on sharing a kaiseki set since it was the best option both in terms of price and quality. After we told the server our order, we were left with nothing to do but to wait for our orders which was going to take a while.

Since the both of us were anticipated this, we each brought our own novel. If there's any influence that I'm proud of, it's that I somehow managed to make Iroha interested in reading. If one were to see her back in high school, no one would expect her to actually have reading as a hobby. This is also one of those moments where we share peaceful silence together. Oh how I enjoy these kinds of moments.

Sadly, I can't do so right now since I'm feeling extremely anxious right now. Even though the ring is currently in my pocket, I'm still hesitant. Even though I keep telling myself to calm down, my body just won't listen. Just as I was panicking, it seems like noticed that I was going through some kind of dilemma.

"Is something wrong senpai? You've been acting nervous ever since we got here."

"How do you know?"

"Geez senpai, we've been together for years already. Of course I can more or less understand you at this point. It's pretty obvious actually. Also, don't bother reasoning yourself out of this one. I can see right through you."

Damn that's scary. Even though I've witnessed it many times, I still can't help but feel intimidated by her in situations like this. Then again, under that cute and charming side of hers lies a sly, manipulative and crafty fox.

"Now go tell me what's on your mind senpai~"

Ah damn, don't give me that cutesy face right after acting so sly. Especially those eyes of yours right now, I'm being overwhelmed by the amount of expectation that's in them. Looks like I have no choice...

I then reach into my pocket as Iroha was wearing a confused look on her face. Once I took out the ring case and placed it on top of the table, that confused look of hers was immediately replaced by a surprised yet extremely happy expression. It seems like I actually managed to surprise her for once.

"Senpai..."

"This is pretty embarrassing, so I'm just going to get it over it. Iroha, will you marry me?"

Even though I said that line pretty quietly and discreetly, the surrounding people still managed to witness it. The restaurant was then filled with the sound of applause. Ah damn it, this is exactly what I didn't want to happen. Hurry up and answer already, so I can get these people off my back. My eyes were practically begging Iroha to answer already. Once she saw them though, a sly grin appeared on her face. I have a bad feeling about this...

"How about I give you my answer once we're done eating." She told me in a playful tone just as our food arrived. The both of us already know what the answer is, so it means that she's intentionally stalling right now. The other people in this restaurant don't know that, so they're currently waiting in anticipation. It feels like a hundred pairs of eyes are on me right now. Once my discomfort was obvious, Iroha started chuckling. Why you...

For the next 30 minutes or so, the two of us were the center of attention of the restaurant. Even though they tried to hide their anticipation in order to not be rude, it was still obvious that they were still watching us. I barely enjoyed my meal due to the dozens of stares directed at me. Iroha on the other hand was currently enjoying the situation.

When the two of us finally finished our meals, Iroha suddenly stood up from her seat with the ring case in hand. This act completely startled everyone except me. Given her personality, I was more or less expecting her to do something like this once I proposed. I just didn't expect her to intentionally stall just so others could see it though. She then positioned herself right next to my ear in order to whisper something.

"You're so cute when you're like this senpai."

"J-Just h-hurry up and give your answer already. I want to get out here already."

"Why though senpai? Shouldn't you be enjoying the moment right now? You finally got to do a proper proposal."

"Just get it over with already. I'll treat you to some of your favorite crepes later."

"Deal!"

She then returned to her seat after she got what she was asking for. I swear, how did I fall in love with a fox this sly. Even in a situation like this, she's still as manipulative and cunning as ever.

"The answer's yes senpai!" She said in a cheerful tone in order to appease the bystanders right now. Once I heard her answer, I faked a sigh of relief to do the same. I then stood up, took out the ring and placed it on her ring finger. The moment I did that, everyone was applauding again. I get it, you're happy for us, I somewhat appreciate it but please let us out of here. Right before I returned to my seat though, she gave me a sudden kiss which again, prompted applause. At this point, I'm getting sick of the sound of clapping.

Since everything was finished, I immediately paid the bill and left the establishment with Iroha. It was extremely relieving now that those people are gone. I would actually want to go home right now but since I have to fulfill my promise from awhile ago, we made our way towards the local park instead. While we were walking, Iroha just kept on staring at her ring finger. Judging by that reaction, seems like I didn't mess up.

"You know senpai, this is a pretty good ring. I wasn't expecting something as good as this."

"I actually gave effort for that you know. I praise or two wouldn't hurt."

"What are you talking about senpai? I would've accepted any ring you would've given to me. It just so happens that I was actually impressed by what you chose."

"Should I take that as a compliment?"

"Of course!"

She said to me as a big bright smile popped up on her face. Seeing her this happy prompted me to smile as well. After a few more minutes, we finally made it to the park. Once we entered, Iroha went out to find a bench while I bought her crepe. Since we frequently go to this park, I basically memorized what her favorite flavors are. After paying for it, I made my way towards the bench we always use whenever we visit this park.

"Here's your crepe." I say to her as I take a seat right next to her.

"Thanks senpai!" She replied with the cutesy smile she always uses whenever I spoil her. For the next few seconds, it was simply silence. Even though she's not showing it right now, I bet what just happened awhile ago also made Iroha a bit tense. Once Iroha finally relaxed, she began the conversation.

"You know, that was a pretty lame proposal."

"Don't remind me."

"You could've done something fancier you know? Like, giving me the ring while kneeling or something. All you did was bring out the case while saying a few words."

"I wanted to get it over with. I didn't want to bother with all those formalities."

"I don't mind it all that much though. Since it's you, I really wasn't expecting much. Since that's probably the best you do as a proposal, I'll take it."

"Wow, you're such an amazing fiancee."

"I know right senpai!"

She then rested her head on my shoulder as she was still happily eating her crepe. This peaceful atmosphere between the two of us then continued on for quite some time.

Then suddenly, we heard the sound of a young girl playing around while screaming 'Mama! Papa!' in a loud voice. When we turned our attention to the kid, we saw just how happy she and her parents were.

The sight of this prompted me to think a little bit. In the near future, the two of us might be like that. Now that we're technically engaged now, we're one step closer to marriage.

"You know what senpai, I'm looking forward to being like that someday too."

"You mean having a family together?"

"Of course. It's has always been my dream to have a family with the person I love."

"That's a pretty childish dream you know."

"Don't ruin it for me senpai!"

"I don't blame you though. My dream is just as childish as yours. Worse part is that it's almost impossible to accomplish."

"What are you talking about senpai? You have me around right? We'll find that genuine thing together, so you don't need to worry that much."

"I'll trust your words then."

"Of course! Leave it to me senpai!"

"Thanks."

"By the way senpai, I'm really glad that I met you. It was probably one of the best things that have happened to me."

"That's pretty corny of you to say."

"Oh shut it senpai! I bet you're thinking the same thing."

"Yeah, you're right. I was thinking the same thing."

"Good!"

With the two of us satisfied with our conversation. We just idly spent the rest of the afternoon in the park together while admiring the beautiful scenery. We didn't even continue our previous conversation. Being in each other's company was already enough for us.

Thinking about it now, I'm one step closer to that genuine I've always wanted. With Iroha around, I guess life won't be as bad as I thought it would be.