AN: I'm super late... but here's the chapter! It'll probably be the last one for the year, so I hope you all love it a bunch! The interactions for this chapter were so much fun to write! On the subject of it being light and fluffy, it will keep that way, but drama is inevitable with what I'm trying to pull off. I dare say I won't break any hearts, but some friction is needed to keep the story moving.

Other characters will have similar but ultimately a different relationship from Hachiman than what their canon counterpart portrays. As it moves along, the changes will be easier to point out.

My betas XenoTime39 and Aerex did a fantastic job! They improve this story to be actually legible, so anything actually amazing can only be done through their help!

Discord: [discord . gg / yARsw4UtaC]

Please review and give me your thoughts! There's lots of things in here that I'm doing on the fly to improve the story and I wish to know if its working! Also, question for all you out there, what kind of deviation from canon Oregairu would you like to see happen. There are lots of things available to me and I already have a clear view of what I want to do, but I'm curious to hear your views!

It has always made me concerned for someone's health when they've invited me somewhere whether it be a classmate, an adventurer friend, or even my own sister. So, when Yuigahama ambushed me after class, asking me if I'd go to her birthday party after the Service Club, I quickly checked her for signs of mind manipulation. Seeing as she was uncharacteristically determined by this, with her cornering me up against a wall and all, I had to stay calm and collected and assess her mental health properly.

Which meant I asked if she was an idiot.

Unfortunately, my response was not a yes or a no, but rather a hit to my head. Beh, you're just lucky, Yuigahama, that I'm holding back! If I wanted to, I would pay you back thricefold for embarrassing me like that! I could very easily get her a present that would make her whole face exploud in disgust!

...But I quickly muttered out, "I'd go." Yuigahama's suddenly intense pressure, in more ways than one, was off of me. Instead, it was replaced with a smile that'd light a dark room. I was so conscientious of her smile that when she left, it had seemed far quicker than what I had just witnessed.

Yes, in this world and the next, I will always be wary of anyone who invites me anywhere. And that goes double for one Yuigahama Yui.

(-)

Alas, it was another quiet club day for the Service Club of Sōbu High School. One wouldn't think that would be the case given that there were extraordinary people usually in attendance such as Ais Wallenstein, Ryuu Lion, and Yukino Yukinoshita, but only one out of the three were in attendance today. Ais was out testing with Hiratsuka-Sensei to check her progress and Ryuu was again dragged to the Archery Club to supposedly be a visual aid.

Yuigahama would usually attempt to kill the silence via rapid fire conversation topics directed towards both Yukinoshita and I, but what Yuigahama didn't know was that we're both so high a level that her petty attacks to get us to do significant conversation aren't enough to put a dent in our health bar.

Time to grind harder, Yuigahama.

It was at this thought that Yuigahama stood from her seat and said, "Um, since it doesn't seem like we're going to get any requests today, I think Imma head out to prepare for the party. You both promised to come, so I better see you there! If you don't come then I won't forgive you, well, unless it's Yukinon."

Wait? What is this blatant favoritism? I deserve unconditional forgiveness for dealing with you daily, thank you very much!

Ignoring my internal sarcasm, Yukinoshita said, "Wait a second, Yuigahama. Is it alright for us to take a few more minutes of your day? I have something to give you."

"Eh, what is it, Yukinon? A birthday present for me?" Yuigahama said, surprise written all over her face.

"Well, it is your birthday, is it not?" Yukinoshita said before presenting her neatly wrapped present. "H-Here it is. I very much value your friendship, Yuigahama, so I thought these items could show my appreciation better."

Yukinoshita stuttering? I should probably frame this moment away in my mind because I doubt it'll happen anytime in the near future. It does show though that behind the ice queen persona, Yukinoshita can't withstand the might of Yuigahama. Huh, I guess her level was high enough.

Yuigahama immediately wrapped Yukinoshita into a hug before even taking a look at her present. Yukinoshita didn't stutter in response unfortunately, but her face is quite the expression with worry and nervousness attached to it.

"I value you too Yukinon! Thank you so much!" Yuigahama said, unwrapping Yukinoshita's present.

"I guess it would be appropriate now to wish you a happy birthday as well, so... Happy birthday, Yuigahama," Yukinoshita said.

Upon those words, Yuigahama saw her gifts. "Yuuukinon, this apron is soo cute! Where'd you get it? What? And there's a cute dog bowl underneath it? That's so thoughtful, Yukinon!" Yuigahama was absolutely animated in her expressions, prodding and poking her gifts as if to check if they were gold.

"Hmm, it seems to be my turn. Happy birthday, Yuigahama. You're a valuable member of the Service Club," I said with a lot of sincerity. Yuigahama certainly does remind me of some people, but her unique charm is a nice change of pace.

"Hikki! You shouldn't have," Yuigahama said as I briefly felt a very nice sensation and smelt a flowery scent. W-Was I just hugged?

Yuigahama, who seemed to have a small blush overtaking her face, spared no time in opening her present and finding what it was. Yuigahama instantly hugged the pink sweater with many red hearts going around the center of the shirt. Aha! My intuition was right about her taste in clothing!

"Eh? This is so adorable! How did you pick out something so good? Yukinon must've chosen it for you. Right, Yukinon?" Yuigahama said, her expressions looking more like a reason to cover up nervousness.

Yukinoshita shook her head. "Surprisingly, it seems as if Hikigaya knows your preference for clothing."

"Eh?" Yuigahama yelped, turning pink, "W-what's that supposed to mean, Yukinon! Are you implying that Hikki watches me or something?"

Yukinoshita shook her head and said, "I implied nothing of the sort. Although he does have a tendency to be creepy, he wouldn't go there… I think."

"You think?" I asked incredulously, "Of course I don't watch Yuigahama or anyone for that matter! Yuigahama just has obvious tastes."

Yuigahama's pink face got darker. It almost seemed like steam was rising from it. "O-obvious tastes?" she questioned.

"Ah, you broke her," Yukinoshita said.

"I did? At the very least, it was a joint effort," I asserted. You won't get out of this one, Yukinoshita!

"Deflecting blame? I should've known. Well, regardless of blame, you should probably snap her out of her trance. We have a party to get to."

"I'm surprised you're going. You don't exactly mesh well with Yuigahama's crowd," I noted. She truly was grateful for Yuigahama's friendship and it showed.

"It's not like you handle those people any better," she scoffed, "Anyway, I have to prepare some things, so you're going to have to take Yuigahama and your other friends to the karaoke building by the station. Since we'll be arranging a booth after 5, we'll be saving some money there with the 'free time deal'."

"I hope I'm not contributing to that cost. Considering that it's not exactly free, it's coming out of someone's wallet, right?" I asked.

"Not to worry, your dirty money isn't required. It's all paid for by Yuigahama's friends. They have their uses sometimes, I guess," Yukinoshita said, almost looking disappointed in me for being concerned about paying.

"Well, you better go on then. I assume you have something planned for her. I'll bring her and the others there soon enough," I assured her.

"Fine then," she said, turning to leave, "I'll text you the details later then." She exited the clubroom walking faster than normal. She must be excited in a Yukinoshita kind of way.

Now to deal with her, the boiling birthday girl.

(-)

Gathering the girls was a bit… challenging given that a dazed Yuigahama is a dangerous Yuigahama. She was giddy, clumsy and all too happy to stay that way. It only took a little sarcasm and some violence to withdraw her from her empty noggin.

"Hikkiiii! If you wanted to wake me up, couldn't you have done it without squishing my cheeks. It's embarrassing!" Yui said, holding her face in pain.

Of course, the others were the real challenge. Tearing Ais away from Miura was tougher than pulling a sword away from Ais and that was no exaggeration. Ryuu, on the other hand, naturally removed herself from the Archery club, albeit with some whining from the club head.

"Hachiman would employ some far more extreme methods if you didn't wake up from that. You better be grateful he stopped with just that," Ryuu warned.

"True. Hachiman is scary," Ais added, hiding a grimace

"Oi, you shouldn't spread information like that around. I have an image to maintain, you know!" I scolded the troublesome two. Thankfully, we were close to the karaoke place, so I wouldn't have to put up with this for much longer.

Yuigahama giggled, "I don't think you'll have to worry about your image, Hikki. You're very consistently scary."

"Hmph, fine then," I said, conceding the point and chose against teasing her over her correct usage of a 'big' word. Only since it's her birthday! "Have you ever gone Karaoking before today, Yui?" I asked, fishing for a conversation.

"Eh? A couple of times with Yumiko I guess. It'll be much more fun with everyone now. I'm very excited to see Yukinon sing! What about you, Hikki?" Yuigahama said, animatedly.

"Never. This is my first time. You shouldn't expect to see me singing if you know what's good for you. Ais or Ryuu would be much better even if they've never gone either," I warned.

"I refuse to sing unless Hachiman does as well," Ryuu retorted towards Yuigahama. Hey, complaining to her won't help your case! I won't sing!

"Hachiman, you must sing," Ais asserted, pulling on my coat.

Yuigahama grew smug as she giggled and said, "It looks like majority rules, Hikki. You have to sing!" she pointed a finger at me, acting dramatic.

"I don't think it matters what majority says, Yuigahama," I deadpan. And really, it didn't.

Yuigahama's outstretched hand melted at that comment as her eyes got all teary as she whimpered, "Pleeease Hikki? Sing, for me?" she asked, getting closer and closer to my face. This is only a trick, Hachiman. Don't fool yourself into the delusion that they're actually sad or else it'll distort your decision-maki-

Sigh

"Fine, I'll sing a little, but don't expect anything good. I warned you," I said, definitely not turning my face away from the tearful crocodile-teared Yuigahama!

It seems I shouldn't have faltered in my resolve because immediately after answering, Yuigahama wiped off her fake tears and turned on the bright smile that she had on before. "Hehe, thanks Hikki! I'll make sure to remember this well!" Why am I so weak when it matters?

I refuse to be filmed, so I'll have to keep an eye out for that so I can activate my skills. I may have to hold back my power at all times, but at least I can keep away from blackmail material!

Owch! Whose pinching me- Ryuu! What did I do to deserve that!

(-)

Strolling into the Karaoke place, I informed the worker at the front what party we were a part of. It seems as if he was expecting us.

"After you," I said to Yuigahama, showing her the room we were in." Allowing her to get in front of me, I signaled to the others to follow my lead. As Yuigahama opened the door…

3. 2. 1.

"Happy Birthday!" Everyone sprung to life in celebration for Yuigahama. Totsuka and Kawasaki are here, at Yukinoshita's insistence. Yuigahama's other friends are here with Miura, Ebina, Hayama and his 3 hanger-ons the uhhh loud one and the other two.

"Wah-!" Yuigahama uttered, stunned by the large number of people. She was only given a vague description of the kind of party we were throwing. Adding in Totsuka and Kawasaki to the party was definitely something she would have never expected. "There's even a cake! You guys, you shouldn't have!"

"Yukinoshita really pulled out all the stops for you. I haven't seen her put that much effort into something in a very long time," Hayama commented. Hayama, do you really think Yukinoshita would do anything this extravagant unless a spell was cast on her? As a witch of great power, Yuigahama has obviously taken extreme measures with the friendship spell. I hear it's incredibly effective against loners er- but I'm not a loner anymore so it doesn't work on me!

"Hey! We put in a lot of effort too for Yui-chan! Someone had to pay for all of this! Also, I was the one who ordered the cake!" Miura asserted, passionate about her contribution.

"Thank you both!" Yuigahama said, hugging both Yukinoshita and Miura, surprising both of them. Although, it was more surprising the hugged pair weren't glaring at one another.

"Let's get to singing now, yeah?" The loud one said, winking as he picked up a mic, evidently wanting to start. Tobe, I know you're easily excitable but you could've waited longer to interrupt their heartwarming hug!

This is going to be a long night.

And so it began, various songs were sung, mostly in a joking way. The thing I picked up on the most while listening and trying to not be a party pooper were the genre choices for the songs. The loud one and the other 2 boys of the Hayama squad sang regular pop songs, mostly party related.

Miura got Yuigahama to join in for a duo song choice. They chose a popular love song that was overly cutesy and simplistic with its lyrics. Both Miura and Yuigahama are already competent singers and know all the lyrics to the song that seemed... newer. Honestly, it's hard to pick up on how current a song is since I'm sort of out of touch now with topical trends.

Miura actually sang again with Ebina, as Ebina was hesitant to sing. They ended up performing a friendship song of sorts. It seemed as if the climate in the air was celebratory, so most songs didn't take a hard, serious deliberation. This time, Miura sang in a looser fashion perhaps to allow Ebina to sing on the same level. Miura is more conscious of her friends than I would expect.

Kawasaki was next and in the instance after she got the mic, she pushed the mic to me, fully intending for her turn to be passed over until later. I had to do the same! I really don't want to go! Seeing limited time for my escape, I had to assess the options. Hayama, Ryuu, Ais, and Yukinoshita are the ones left. Who's the closest one to me that would just take their turn? Ais! I choose you!

Passing the mic over to her and skipping myself in the queue, I gracefully shifted the turn to Ais who was unsure of what to sing.

She looked through the queue, seemingly having a hard time deciding what to sing, until she came upon a lullaby. She picked the lullaby and unexpectedly, sang it with a gentle voice. It's not amazing really in terms of singing ability like with Yuigahama and Miura, but it's so different from her normal voice that it was surprising to hear.

Huh, it was enjoyable to listen to her.

Ais quickly passed the mic along and sat down as if what she did was no big deal. Yeah, that's Ais alright. Cool like the steel of her many broken swords. Totsuka was next, and he sang like an angel. It was even a pretty manly song that he was trying to sing, but alas, the white-haired men I meet will never pull off a tough guy look… except maybe Zaimokuza?

Moving on, he joyfully looked me in the eye and gave the mic to me. No! Totsuka, did my coaching mean nothing to you? With a smile, Totsuka said, "It's your turn now, Hachiman! Good luck!"

Skipping once was one thing. Two times, however? "No amount of luck is going to save me from this," I reply, getting up from my seat to properly look at the lyrics set out for me. I took a quick look at some anticipating faces. Yui and Ais seemed to be the most visibly interested while Yukinoshita, Ryuu, and Miura were trying to mask their interest. Ebina was just visibly amused and Hayama was enjoying my pain.

Alright, here it goes.

I started to sing my heart out. I had some trouble with the lyrics but I managed to keep up with the song. Unfortunately, I didn't get to pick one, so it was some fast-paced electro song that I was very underprepared to sing for. There were some higher notes that I just barely managed to handle. Overall, I'd say I didn't do terrible. Well, that was my impression until I turned around.

From what I can see, everyone was clutching their ears to block out the sounds. Hey, at least no one left the room! Ais, to my surprise, clapped for my performance, seemingly not affected by my singing. Even the most composed people in the room were in a bit of a mess. Yukinoshita, in particular, was out of it looking as if she had swirls for eyes.

Well, time for someone else. "Hmm, your turn," I said, passing the mic to Hayama who recovered the quickest from my singing. I wonder if I should bury myself by the beach or in front of my home later. How embarrassing that was…

"Alright then! My apologies if I'm not up to your standards, but I'll try my best," Hayama said with a nice guy smile. Is that a jab at me? Screw you, Hayama. I never wanted to sing in front of anyone! It's a mystery I never had to sing in Orario.

Instead, I made sure to allow all the singing to be done by the trained professionals.

Hayama began a generic love song sounding like a one-man boyband. I almost broke out in laughter at how expressive Hayama was being, but Miura seemed into it and I wasn't keen on ruining Yuigahama's party with a confrontation, so I kept my mouth shut. He definitely sang well, but that's no surprise.

And so it came to be that it was Kawasaki's turn, somehow being persuaded to go after Hayama through peer pressure. Everyone was expecting a good performance after Hayama's, and it seemed like they hoped Kawasaki would continue the trend of good singing.

Kawasaki, unlike her cool appearance, picked a cutesy song that probably made her too nervous to sing properly in front of people. It was a song that seemed like something from a recent anime with how the lyrics were filled with "Magic magic love" and other such words.

It was something that Komachi would've liked if she was younger, really.

Kawasaki wasn't an amazing singer, but given her nervousness and her performance of singing cutesy lyrics with her cool appearance, I'd say it was a more than acceptable performance. Probably a culmination of babysitting her siblings, if I had to say. With a blush from embarrassment, she sat down quietly, but not before handing the mic off to Yukinoshita, who was holding her stone cold face only as a facade. If my guess is right, Yukinoshita is nervous, even if she's prepared to sing in front of everyone.

Yukinoshita picked a ballad, one that is incredibly hard to perform for a student, but Yukinoshita sang it as if it was nothing. I'd imagine a modern princess like her would be trained in these sorts of skills, even if she doesn't mention them. If anything, she'd think it was common, and that I was scum on Earth for skipping out on those lessons. She sang for around 2 and a half minutes, but it seemed like it all flowed together rather quickly.

No, I'm not jealous of her singing skill. I am fine with my, ehem,mediocre singing.

Yukinoshita got an applause for her performance, although not without some grumbling from Miura, and so she passed the mic to Ryuu, who was finally having her turn.

Now, this should be good.

I already know how good Ryuu is as a singer. She's quite the proficient singer to say the least. I think she picked it up from some bards of sorts. I doubt she ever sang for the Hostess of Fertility, but in her free time, she's certainly sung for me once or twice.

And so, I got comfortable in my seat as Ryuu turned on a ballad, matching Yukinoshita, except it seemed as if she went with different lyrics. Ryuu was always one to cut her own path and I guess it applies to singing. It seemed to be in line with some singing I've heard from bards. Ones of fanciful adventures and meeting maidens. It wasn't what I've experienced, but it does ring true to some portions of my adventure… but that's behind me now.

Ryuu's song seemed to mystify everyone up to its ending. Ryuu sat down and put the mic on the table for anyone else to use.

It was a very loud booth to be in afterwards since the noisy people of the bunch were praising Ryuu for a job well done.

(-)

After a lot more singing and a lot more conversation than I could really deal with, the birthday party died down with most of the clique leaving, although not without some more hugs to be had between Yuigahama, Miura and Ebina.

Hayama managed to keep his cronies calm and not bouncing off the walls, so they left without much fanfare. Kawasaki left mentioning that she had some studying to do at home. I guess she's still working hard. Totsuka went his own way, overjoyed with his time at this party.

After receiving a text from someone I could only guess to be Shio-san, Ryuu left in a hurry, but not without directing some words my way quietly. "I want you to have a match with me soon. I know you've sparred with Ais and I'd like to spar with you too," Ryuu said before running off. There was a bit of a scary gleam in her eyes... I'll just put that in the back of my head for now.

Ais was the next to leave as I had contacted Hiratsuka-sensei earlier so that Ais wouldn't have to wait for too long. Ais gave me a look before giving Yuigahama a hug. "Thank you for being my friend. Hope you had a nice birthday," Ais said with a small smile. She gave a bow to Yukinoshita who returned it before getting into Hiratsuka-sensei's car.

"Ah, so you all went karaoking. That takes me back," Hiratsuka-sensei commented.

I held myself back from commenting about her age as I said, "What's your singing like, sensei?"

Hiratsuka-sensei looked surprised by my question but her face quickly turned into a laugh. "Haha, I'm no good at all! I would always get the mic taken away from me because of how bad I was!"

Ah, a kindred soul- I mean, how horrible for you sensei, I can't relate.

Before Yuigahama or Yukinoshita could respond with a snappy comment about me, I dismissed Hiratsuka sensei. "Well, I hope you get home safely, sensei. I'd imagine you have some papers to grade," I tried to say as casually as possible.

"Hmm, I guess so," Hiratsuka-sensei admitted before a smirk crawled onto her face as she said, "Oh, but be sure to escort Yuigahama and Yukinoshita home, alright? You can do that much right? I won't have it if any of my students gets into any sort of danger."

"Uhh I guess I can do that sensei? What exactly are you smiling at though, Hiratsuka-sensei?" Is she going to go on about youth like she always does?

"Nothing, nothing," Hiratsuka sensei deflected as she rolled up her window until only her eyes could be seen. "I'm just making sure someone lives out their youth to their fullest. Like any good teacher should," she said before rolling up the window entirely and leaving.

...I knew she'd pull that youth card on me. Well, I guess I'll abide by her suggestions. I don't want to gain her ire. "I guess we should be off then," I said, turning towards Yukinoshita and Yuigahama.

Yukinoshita simply gave a nod as she walked in the direction of her apartment. Yuigahama scrambled to match her pace and I fell into step with her.

As we walked, Yuigahama seemed to be itching to say something. "Um, thank you guys, for everything," she said unevenly, as if she was unsure of her words.

I'm not sure what kind of birthday parties Yuigahama has experienced in the past, but I'd be hard pressed to top something like this, at least from her perspective. To her, she's just spent an hour or two with some of her greatest friends, new and old. She's had heartwarming gifts that've had a lot of care put into their selection. I'd imagine she must be feeling very happy right now.

I've been through a similar experience with my past, but even given my age, mental or otherwise, I can't help but have my heart warmed by it, even in memory.

Yukinoshita responded before I did. "You're welcome. Although, I should really be the one thanking you."

Yuigahama looked taken aback in shock by the answer. "What do you mean, Yukinon? What do you have to thank me for?" She seemed incredibly curious over the answer enough to even make her eyes sparkle a tad.

Yukinoshita had some trouble coming up with an answer for Yuigahama, so I decided to answer for her. "For starters, your involvement in the club. I'd imagine having just Ais and I alone with her would be a very quiet experience." That garnered a giggle from Yuigahama along with a small smile from Yukinoshita.

That smile quickly went into a mocking expression as she commented, "Of course. I enjoy Yuigahama's company making the Service Club room a little bit more lively than Hikigaya-kun could ever make it."

"Hey! That's not what I meant," I complained as I fell into step with Yukinoshita in an argument yet again. It's nostalgic for me considering this is like how I was before I fell into Orario. Maybe I should be above this needless babble, but for some reason, I enjoy it, no, I crave it.

It's different from my time with Ryuu and Ais. I cherish those memories dearly, but…

I certainly wish to experience what my high school life will continue to bring my way.

Yuigahama interrupted our arguing with a loud giggle. "Yukinon, Hikki, you guys are far more incredible than I could ever be. That much I think I am able to understand. But…" Her words fell off, getting mine and Yukinoshita's attention to turn to her.

Giving a big smile, Yuigahama continued, "I hope we're able to stay like this, as great friends growing to be even greater friends!" It seemed as if time had stopped as her smiling face mesmerized me. What made her so happy with how things were? Was she experiencing the same feeling I was?

Yukinoshita, again, was the first to respond. "Yuigahama, I hope you know that line of reasoning is inherently flawed."

"Eh?" Yuigahama said, completely confused. Her expression made me laugh, although I tried to hide it.

"Putting aside your assertion of how amazing we evidently are, I don't think you should put Hikigaya of all people on a pedestal, I'd say we can't stay forever as great friends growing to be even greater friends," Yukinoshita said, her straight face turning upwards, "If you wish to keep as things are, it will inherently backfire into a shallow state, but if you wish to progress, it is my belief that we will eventually become a level of relationship above great friends. Perhaps, best friends." Yukinoshita's face grew red at her own words as her eyes avoided our own.

Yuigahama looked touched at her words, a wide smile threatening to outdo her last one. "You're right, Yukinon! Let's try to be best friends!" She gave Yukinoshita a hug, stopping our walk to Yukinoshita's apartment.

"Hmm, I don't know whether to be hurt that I can't be put on the pedestal I deserve or touched that I'm a part of this friendship circle," I commented, butting in.

"Hikki, you idiot!" Yuigahama said, letting go of Yukinoshita and enveloping me into a hug as well. Huh, this is quite… nice.

Yukinoshita cleared her throat, her blush not going away. "I think that Hikki-neglected-gaya needs some attention so that he doesn't get too sad at no one looking at him," Yukinoshita said.

"That's right!" Yuigahama said, letting go of the nice hug I was in, "Hikki is probably suuuper sad to not get all the attention, especially for his amazing singing!" She giggled at her own words.

"H-Hey, you asked me to sing, so you got what you deserved," I swatted her teasing hand that pointed at me. "I'll never give in to any of your requests now," I said, walking ahead of them.

"Eh, wait no, Hikki, I didn't mean it!" Yuigahama backpedaled, trying to get me to do her bidding whenever she wanted.

"Well, it's for the best that we never need your help, Hikigaya-kun," Yukinoshita commented. Ah, so it's back to kun then, huh? "There's a contest I still intend to win. I still wish to prove my superiority."

"Oh yeah? Let's see who helps the most with the next request," I challenged her head on, banter once again falling into familiar steps.

And so, the night ended with some declarations for the future.

(-)

The days after were unremarkable. The same routine of school and the Service Club proceeded as usual. It was only when a lazy weekend started that trouble struck.

"Gah, why did I have to get up on a Saturday morning to shop?" I mumbled to myself. strolling through the very same mall I shopped for Yuigahama's present. Komachi had woken me up with a request to buy her a random t-shirt and some branded sandals. Given her upturned head and her big eyes threatening me with crocodile tears, I was inclined to take on her request.

Although not without me making some additions to the shopping plans. There's a game I wanted to try out. A chill platformer that I can casually play. I used to play a lot of RPGs, but nowadays it's a little too reminiscent of fighting for real. And considering I can do some of those actions for real and more, it's too much for me to sit down and do.

So, unlike how I eat my food, I quickly got the boring part out of the way and I bought the shirt and sandals. The cost was astronomical for so little, but eh, this was coming out of Komachi's pocket so it's not really my problem.

I hope that doesn't lose me any points.

So I perused the shelves of the game store with some interest that came from this all being new to me again. Really, I forget how good some of these games could be so I'm all in on rediscovering video games!

"Ah, are you a fan of that series? How bold of you," a beautiful black-haired woman said. She seemed suspiciously friendly for being a college-aged girl.

"Uhh, I'm not really a fan of that series in particular," I said, putting back a mature title. Why was she poking around my business? For some reason though, she reminds me of Yukinoshita.

"Oh really? You were just window shopping I guess? That's mi-ghty naugh-ty," she said, enunciating her words in a deliberately slow manner. It's impressive how she can say all that with a straight face, but she's attracting too much attention, so I'm going to get away from her.

"Excuse me, but I think this is where we part ways," I said, showing the harmless game I 'm about to buy as I walked past her and to the cashier.

"Oh, what a pity, I wanted to talk to you more. Surely you can spare me some time. You're a very interesting person, I can tell!" Her expressions were perfectly portrayed to show sincerity, but it's easy to see to me that she's full of it.

"Haruno-senpaaai! I'm back! Oh, who're you talking to?" a bright and cheery girl. My first impression of her is that she seems like the total opposite of this 'Haruno-Senpai'.

The aforementioned Haruno-Senpai turned to me as if signaling me to answer. I picked up my bag to leave as I had just paid for my game. "I'm Hikigaya Hachiman. Nice to meet you," I mumbled lazily as I made to exit the store.

I was stopped in my tracks though by the cheery pigtailed girl. "Ah, Hikigaya-kun? What a coincidence!" she commented, grabbing my hands. Do I know this girl from somewhere? That's quite the lewd gesture. "You're from the Service Club, right? With Haruno-Senpai's younger sister?"

Oh my, what have I been roped into?

"Ah, so you know Yukino-chan? That's great! You can chat with me so I can catch up on her progress. Ever since she's been living alone, I haven't heard a peep from her," Haruno said, going through a performance of expressions.

For some reason I foresaw that I wouldn't get out of this without it backfiring on me later, so I cautiously agreed. "Fine then. How about we chat over a drink?"

"That sounds wonderful, Hikigaya-kun!" Haruno said, grabbing my arm into dangerous territory as she dragged me out the door of the store.

"This was so lucky! To get to hear about Haruno-Senpai's younger sister. Gasp, maybe she can succeed me one day! Oh, by the way, Hikigaya-kun, I'm Shiromegui Meguri, your student council president and senpai!"

I demand a recount!

After being dragged around, I somehow untangled myself from the dangerous place, and I sauntered over to a vending machine. MAX Coffee, my one true love, I will have you in my arms once more!

"You're going to order a drink for me as well, right, Hikigaya-kun?" Haruno said cheerfully.

"Ooh! Me too! Please, Hikigaya-kun!" Shiromeguri-senpai chirped up.

"I don't have that kind of luxury to spend needlessly like that. Buy your own," I tried to turn them down with no room for counterarguments.

"Hey," Haruno mumbled, poking my side, yet again getting uncomfortably close to me, "You're accompanying two attractive girls right now. You should be more considerate, you know." Haruno briefly stopped poking me and walked ahead to get her own drink. "You're off the hook for now, but next time, you're treating both of us," Haruno said with a wink.

"There's going to be a next time?" my eyebrow raised. I doubt we're going to by coincidence run into each other like this again. For some reason, I think that she'll create these 'coincidences' in the future.

Yukinoshita, your sister is scary.

I eagerly drank a MAX Coffee to distract myself, and immediately, sweetness overflowed into my mouth. The drink of the gods indeed!

"Wow, you must really like the drink," Haruno said as she sipped at her own, "Anyway, let's cut to the chase. How's my cute little sister at school?"

"She's just like you," I said, "Perfect." I wasn't being entirely truthful, but I wasn't lying either.

"Oh really," Haruno's eyes perked up at those words. For some reason, I don't think she believed me. "The Service Club sounds like something Shizuka would make. Is she your advisor?"

What makes you so familiar with Hiratsuka-sensei? With some hesitation, I said, "Yes, she created it I believe. Although I have no proof of that fact."

"Ah, Hiratsuka-Senpai is a very cool teacher. Her making a club to help the students is very likely I think. She's always my go-to person for Student Council help!"

"I hope you're not troubling Shizuka too much. She's the type to overwork herself despite how she likes to portray herself."

"Ahaha, I just ask her for some advice every once in a while. She's one of my favorite teachers, so I try to not overwhelm her. Also, I'm capable on my own!" Shiromeguri-Senpai said, patting her chest in a determined expression. She really is too honest of a person to be sitting with Yukinoshita's devious sister like this.

If she had white hair, she'd be perfect.

"Getting back on topic, is there anything else you want to ask about regarding your sister? I'm already half done with my drink," I commented, trying to move along the conversation. I didn't want to be here any longer than I needed to.

"Hey, don't be so hasty. You should relax more. If you're like this every time with a girl, you're not going to be very popular." she said with her constant smile still there in full force. "So, tell me more about Yukino-chan. Is she still as cute as ever?"

Uh what? "I don't have any obligation to answer that. I think you know the answer."

"Ah, but I wasn't talking about appearances," she pointed out.

"I know."

Haruno's face changed ever so slightly at that comment and for a moment there, it seemed as if everything was full of tension. But then Shiromeguri-Senpai swept that all away.

"Oooh! You guys are so in sync with each other. That's amazing!" Shiromeguri-Senpai cheered as she clapped her hands together in a surprised amazement sort of expression.

I really have a feeling that I can't say too much or else it'll come back to bite me big time. If I get similar vibes to chatting with Loki, I think Yukinoshita Haruno should be categorized in a similar category.

Dangerous.

(-)

Upon returning from what was a very scary conversation, I was welcomed with a sight that I imagined myself in.

Cooking. Or to be more specific, Komachi, Ryuu, and Ais cooking.

Well this is helping me recover bits of my HP after fighting that final boss-like character. "So, you took me on a wild goose chase for this I assume?" I ask as all the temporary chefs scramble to hide something.

"Heh, Onii-chan, I bet you were surprised that I was able to gather Ryuu-chan and Ais-chan over here to make something for you! That must be a lot of points, right?" she said, acting as her usual sly little sister self.

"It's worth a lot of points, but you lose points for lying to your Onii-chan," I say playfully as I set her purchase on the table for her to look at, "Although you also gain a lot of points because you lied for the sake of your Onii-chan, so I guess you came out on top."

"Geez, Onii-chan, you could've just said I gained a lot of points," Komachi pouted as I made my way over to the counter, attempting to take a look at their creation.

"You cannot look yet," Ais said, blocking me from looking. I… actually haven't eaten anything from Ais yet so I'm very curious if she can cook as good as she can eat.

Ryuu dragged me away saying, "We're not done yet, Hachiman. Surely you can wait a little longer?" Well, of course I can, but whether I want to or not is a different story. Ryuu also seldomly cooks for me, so the only one holding this team together has to be Komachi… which is always a win so I don't think I'll worry about the result at all.

Come to think of it, I usually was the one to cook for Ais or Ryuu while in Orario. ...Did I already accomplish my house-husband dream?

Slap yourself out of it Hachiman! The house husband dream is over! You have overpowered skills that could conquer the world if you wanted to! Don't settle for the boring and quiet life of a person who just lounges around a home and does the house chores… even though it sounds incredibly appealing in comparison to being a corporate slave.

No, resist, Hachiman! You used to be one of the top ranked Adventurers! The life of a house husband is behind you!

While I had my existential crisis, Komachi stalked over to me, poking me saying, "Uh, Onii-chan? Snap out of that gross whatever you're doing and come with me," she said, jokingly before bringing my attention to the kitchen. "Your cute little sister and your friends have made you a snack!"

Before my eyes were delectable chocolate brownies. An odd choice considering none of them have a particular specialty with brownies, especially Ais and Ryuu who probably have never tried one before.

"They're amazing, right?" Komachi asked eagerly. There was a suspicious chocolate stain on her lips. Well well well.

"They look delicious but I haven't had a taste unlike someone so I don't know yet," I said.

"U-Uh? Teehee?" Komachi bumped her head playfully, sticking out her tongue. "You can't have the first bite with Ais-chan and Ryuu-chan. I promise it won't disappoint you!"

"I guess I can trust the expert opinion here," I commented before handing a piece to Ais and Ryuu.

"I have to say, this looks like it was done well. I've never thought I'd be able to get something as good as this from you two. Thank you very much," I thanked them with a smirk.

"I tried my best," Ais said, her determination wavering in the form of her eyes drifting to her brownie.

"Hm, this wasn't that hard. Maybe you can make these next time," Ryuu suggested with a smirk. Hold it, that's dangerous thinking Ryuu! That's going to trigger Ais to ask me and-

"Hachiman, will you sometime?" Ais asked, her eyes sparkling.

"S-sure," I conceded now feeling stupid. Well maybe this brownie will help. "Time to dig in." All three of us took a bite out of the brownie piece each of us had, although in Ais' case, it's more like she swallowed the brownie whole.

Mmm, it really is very good. It is firm enough to be held, but once you bite into it, it just flows into your mouth in sugary goodness. It's not as sweet as MAX Coffee, but it certainly is sweet to eat! The best part was how strong the flavour stayed, making each bite worth something amazing.

"So, is it a success, Onii-chan?" Komachi asked, already knowing the answer from my expression.

"How many points do you want," I asked.

Omake: Teasing The Mystery

"Hachi-tan, spar with me!"

The daily event of bugging the darkly dressed adventurer was special to me. It seems that everyone wanted a piece of him, and I was no different.

"Not a chance, Hiryute."

It's very strange to think back on! I may not be the smartest, but even I knew that Hachi-tan was suffering from something.

He hides it well, very well actually if you don't know what to look for. His face shows everything when he convinces himself no one is looking. Sometimes, even when I chat with him, certain things would flicker across his mask on certain topics. That look of loneliness and utter helplessness seems so wrong when he's such an indomitable person—nay, hero!

Why did I care?

It's simple, really. He is so cool! He's saved many people many times without batting an eye and even without asking for a reward! Who does that?

Well, I shouldn't ask that. Argonaut-kun is similar to him. But where Argonaut-kun makes a choice to save others out of the kindness of his heart, it seems like Hachi-tan saves begrudgingly out of principle. However, if I pay extra attention after such storybook events, I'd catch a contagious smile, whose raity is on par with a shiny monster encounter! For all his self-deprecation and ill language, he was no less of a good boy at heart! Whereas, Argonaut-kun is bright and cheerful, Hachi-tan is dark and moody. And, that's perfectly alright.

He puts up these walls that feel impossible to breakdown. I was… curious as to why he would be so selfless but would in turn be so lonely. All the heroes I've read of before stood strong with their heads high, and no one in the world to stop them. But with Hachi-tan, it feels like while he's strong, he's very very weak.

It sounds like I'm crazy, I know, but I'm not, I promise!

Why else would he have such strong walls! Strong people like my fearless leader, the Braver Finn, have no need for them. I recognize similar walls from my older sister, up until a certain someone grinded them into dust! With it, she became more. I... wanted to see the same with Hachi-tan, a brooding hero, whose smiles sent my heart into overdrive!

My curiosity led me to a desire to get to know him better. And what better way to do that than to fight him? ...But I would get turned down. Every. Single. God. Darn. Time. It was only after wearing him down for a full month that he gave up and decided to give me a try.

So we fought. As I expected, he was powerful in a sense but... It was like he was a mind reader with him predicting my every move! He used many different cool weapons, but the only one he used to fight me was a plain long sword. Magic was also in his arsenal though, used in ways I've never seen before, even in comparison to Riri-tan!

He was powerful but fought like he was weak, poor, and dirty. He tried to turn it into a lesson. But, I didn't care. At first, I was enraged that he wasn't taking me seriously. I then realized that his fighting style aligned with his comments poised at himself. For some reason, that made me far angrier than his lack of seriousness, which in hindsight is impossible 'cuz he was always serious!

Hehe, his surprised face after his boring sword broke into like a million pieces ended up snapping me out of my amazonian rage.

In the end, I didn't win, but I didn't lose either. Hachi-tan just sorta quit midway, mumbling about a lack of mana. By the end of it, he was smiling. I've never seen him smiling at me before.

I wish to see him smile again, and the only thing I knew that made him smile was sparing against me.

So I asked him to spar with me again and again and again. Just like him, I'm pretty stubborn. I'd say I'm more stubborn-er since I could see the loneliness he holds being chipped away, bit by bit, day by day. So, I was winning! The more that crumbled, the stronger my resolve became! Hehe~

Although, I couldn't take all the credit because I wasn't the only one at work... so maybe he was even more stubborn since he had to put up with everyone...?

N-Nevertheless, I knew I could help Hachi-tan, so I did.

It's not like this was only me helping him though! I was helped a ton by Hachi-tan especially when the familia had problems sprouting up. Hachi-tan struck them down like the hero he was. He wasn't exactly a hero I've read about, but he was something totally different.

He was a hero I could help. Someone that I could make smile, just for a moment.

"Hachi-tan, you aren't going to hit me that easily!" I teased dodging a strike of his blade, only for Hachiman to reappear next to me using his special skill. "GAH, ow! That was a cheap trick!"

"You spoke too soon, Hiryute. Don't blame me for your own mistake," Hachi-tan said with a smirk. "Anyway, I think that's all I have in me for today. Same time tomorrow?"

Day after day, I'll spar with you because maybe someday…

"That's right!"

You won't be lonely anymore.