Unexpected Marriage

by Shroheim

Hikigaya Hachiman and Miura Yumiko now in their third year of high-school are caught in an arranged marriage orchestrated by their parents. How will they deal with this predicament, each other and those around them?

3. Chapter 3

This stupid Hachiman, launching a surprise attack like that. It was completely unfair of him, kissing me on my cheek right in the line of sight of Komachi no less. Also surprised by her brother's action, she had initially turned her red face away from mine, but over the course of time I would find her peeking my way while entertaining her grandparents.

The grandparents lost in the world of their own were solely focused on their granddaughter. I was grateful to Komachi for taking their attention away from me, that way I was able to calm down and regain my composure. Taking a steady breath, I got up from the sofa and examined the situation in the living room. Once I accessed that it was safe for me to leave, I quietly slipped away making my way upstairs and towards my room.

Just to be on the safe side, I knocked before entering the room. Hachiman was sitting crossed legged in the corner of the room. Beside him stood a tower consisting of all manner of books. Hachiman stopped his actions and turned his head around to gaze at my figure slowly approaching him.

"What's the point of knocking when you are gonna enter without getting a reply." Although he was right, he didn't intend it to be serious statement as his mouth was curved upwards to form a smile, in direct contrast to his dark piercing eyes. Eyes that would make anyone run away if gazed upon. Before people used to refer to his eyes, calling them creepy or dead fish. But after his abnormal growth spurt, the name calling changed to scary or delinquent. To most people he looked downright terrifying.

When we first met at the hotel accompanied by our parents, even I was a little shaken by his appearance, his eyes were soulless, akin to staring into a bottomless pit. Both him and his father's towering form stood out amongst the sea of the guest who largely stayed away from the duo, calling them, yakuza. Believing in the whispers around me, I became a little baffled that my father associated himself with the yakuza. What was more surprising was to see a middle-aged woman smiling brightly while standing next to the two savage looking men.

It was shock to learn that the teen was Hachiman and his parents. I was still trying to process this news when my father dropped the engagement bomb over my head and from there my mentality swirled out of control.

"It was a warning that I am coming in, this is my room too after all." I cheekily replied, tilting my head to see what my husband was up to. He had separated the books according to their genre, my green eyes shifted from the english, japanese, maths and other course books, even the novels he had were separated accordingly. Some of the course books were big, like three times the size of my schoolbooks. Are those university books? Does he already studies those? The book on the far right wasn't even japanese or english, I don't know what it was.

Hachiman turned his attention from me and went back to sorting his books out. I slid my body on the sofa, my head resting on the arm rest watching my husband silently. "Then should I also rush in next time." He spoke in a teasing voice.

"You have a death wish?" He chuckled at my threat; my cheeks glowed bright red because I knew what he was hinting at. I will have to double check the locks next time I am changing. He didn't say anything further and continued to sort out his books. Buying a bookshelf is a must, Hachi really has too many books. I don't know how he kept them in his room, but I don't want them scattered around eating up space.

"You really like to study huh?" I questioned in a low voice. Well, he was pretty smart to begin with.

Hachiman stopped his movements for a second, his hands frozen in mid-air holding a book which was bigger than my head. "I don't." He placed the book down on one of the stacks, the smile on his face was gone and now held a deep frown. His sharp gaze sneaked a peek my way. My body still lazily leaned on the side of the sofa as the both of us studied each other.

Hachiman was the first to retreat, he let out a heavy breath and returned back to organizing his books. "I don't think anyone in their right mind actually likes to study, I just do it because I have to."

"Hmmm." I hummed back. "Then what about exercising, you seemed to be enjoying yourself a lot when you were running in the park." He really did look happy back then, especially after he beat that weird woman Makado.

"Again, because I have to. But I do enjoy it a little and it helps with the stress." He took another heavy breath, his head now tilted down staring at his book collection. "But sometimes it's just too much." He looked tired and exhausted both mentally and physically.

I expanded my arm out over the sofa, my hand lightly brushing against his messy black hair. His face turned towards me again, only to be greeted by a gentle smile. "You worked super hard didn't you." I brightly responded to his efforts. He stared at me with wide eyes, then they slowly turned into a frown making a childish face turning away completely.

My, was he embarrassed? I let out a giggle and now my other hand was also playing with his hair. Meanwhile Hachi just sat there offering no resistance and let me do whatever I wanted.

At first, I was gonna tell him to stop pushing himself so much or that it was alright to take a rest from time to time but I stopped myself thinking that it might upset him and betray all the effort he has been putting in all this time. He was going out of his way to show me his weaknesses. It would have been unfair if I responded to his feelings by debunking him in return.

Though, it really bothered me. He says because he has to, but why is that, why push himself so hard? There are alot of stuff that he isn't telling me like when he came back home all beaten up and frankly, I can't be pushy about it either. I know when he is ready, he will tell me himself so just let him go at his own pace. The fact that he is comfortable enough to talk to me like this is enough.

He grabbed one of my hands and placed a quick kiss on the back of it. A small smile returning back to his face. I retreated my hands back and hid myself in the safety of the sofa. Only my head from the eyes up was being revealed, watching Hachi as he started to set his books in correct order. I took the time to steady myself, calming down my racing heart and defusing my pink cheeks.

At least his mood was better now. He has been pretty down since we returned back home. It was apparent he was trying to keep his tone neutral in front of his grandparents even under their harsh remarks against his appearance. What surprised me was how they had said those things with a straight face.

"I guess Komachi is keeping them busy."

I nodded, "she is." By them, I think he was talking about his grandparents. Well, it wasn't hard for Komachi since she was a natural likeable person and the grandparents were generally fond of her. It still surprised me that they didn't even notice Hachiman's absence, it's like after the essential greeting, they lost interest in him.

"Grandmother didn't give you a hard time, right?" After placing the last book in one of the many piles, he gave one last glance at his books before shifting his head to face mine.

"No, not really. She mostly asked what you are like in school and told me bits and pieces about your parent's birthplace." I told him glossing over the parts about where his grandmother insults Hachi's father. Seriously, what was wrong with that woman?

Hachiman hummed as he got up from the floor and with one big step, he landed on the sofa with a loud thud. His actions made me jump a little. As the sofa wasn't that big, our shoulders were pretty much squished together, or rather I was the one getting squished. Why is he so close all of a sudden, my heart pretty much leapt to my throat because of his actions. Geez, don't scare me like that.

Besides me, Hachiman let out a heavy breath as his body relaxed. He was probably in the process of becoming one with the sofa, I know because I would. "Hmmm, I know it was for a limited time, but can I have another lap pillow?"

My face turned towards my husband with wide eyes. What did he just say? "Absolutely not." I blurted out harshly. Limited time means limited time, there was no way in hell I am gonna do that again. I only did it the first time because he was utterly tired. Does he realize how much courage I had to summon for me to even suggest such a thing.

Oh, come on, don't look at me like that. To think Hachiman of all people is capable of making a pleading face like that. I definitely won't fall for it. "No means no." Having been completely shot down, Hachiman turned away with a frown.

Maybe I was too harsh on him. Though can you blame me? I am still adjusting to the close physical contact between us. The fact that we are sitting like this is already enough for me. Hachiman aren't you moving too fast, slow down will you. What's with all this hugging and touching? Aren't you supposed to be an introvert?

Inhaling deeply, I sneaked a peek at Hachiman. He was leaning on the other side of the sofa lost in thought. Somehow, even though the sofa itself was small, I just felt the distance between us increase a little. It felt uncomfortable.

It's not like I didn't enjoy Hachiman's show of affection. It really made me happy and feel light albeit I just get flustered easily by his behaviour. I may have been in the popular group both in middle and highschool but I never dated before and have zero romantic experience.

It's pretty surprising Hachiman is taking the lead like this; he did say he had gone on a couple of dates much to my horror. To think he had more experience than me. He didn't have a girlfriend though; was he a playboy behind the scenes? Let's remove such thoughts.

"Hmmm, Hachi?"

"Yes?" His face shifted to me.

Come on Yumiko, don't chicken out now. I leaned myself towards my husband with my body safely landing on his shoulder. Tilting my head upwards, my eyes met my husband's surprised ones. The surprise was short lived instead he shifted to giving me a questioning look.

"I know this isn't the lap pillow but this is good enough right." I told him as my head brushed against his shoulder. This is surprisingly nice; I can get used to this. Though isn't this more of a service for me? Well Hachiman just has to deal with it, after all this way I can get used to his presence.

"Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable." His tone was soft.

I shook my head, letting my body relax against his. "It doesn't make me uncomfortable. I don't hate it or anything."

His light breathing caused my head to raise and fall along with his shoulder in a calming rhythm. It was a similar sensation I experienced in the park when both of us were lying down. I can get used to this; I wouldn't mind if we stayed like this for a while.

I wonder if Hachiman is disappointed by this. He wanted a lap pillow but instead I am the one getting spoiled. I wonder why he even suggested such a thing, was he tired? Well, he didn't look tired to me. Something on his mind? Maybe. Maybe because of the stress he mentioned, indeed if he pushed himself too hard then it will take a toll on anyone in one form or the other. So, in other words, he was gonna use me to relieve his stress.

If that was the case then I am sorry dear customer because our lap pillow services are currently unavailable and won't be functional for the foreseeable future. Might I suggest you use our most rated feature to date, 'hand holding', it is very popular with young couple nowadays.

What's that? You want a divorce? Might I suggest a punch to the face?

A giggle escaped my mouth as my mind wandered across random thoughts. My nose snuggled against his shoulders as my head searched for an even more comfortable spot to rest on. Staying like this, it's relaxing and making me sleepy. "Hachi?" I called out to my husband; my eyes closed off.

"Yes?" His arm slid around my back, wrapping it around me. His chest expanded outwards taking a deep breath. His heart beat was exceedingly fast, even more rebellious than mine. A smile broke across my face knowing that it was me who was causing him to react like this.

"You know, I was thinking. I want to go to Hokkaido." My eyes fluttered open waiting for his response. I am sure he was surprised because he momentarily stopped breathing before continuing on as usual.

"Hokkaido? Where did that come from?"

"I just wanted to visit your family's hometown. Your father is from there, right?"

Hachiman hummed. "Is that why you want to go?"

"I just thought I would be a good trip, just the two of us." A smile crackled across my face as I stated my intentions. An outing with Hachiman. I thought about it before but now I have a destination in mind.

Hachiman hummed again, "If you want to, I don't mind." I was happy he agreed to it, now the issue of when, remains. Since it was still summer holidays, it was an idle time to go. Though it depends on Hachiman. I am fine with whenever he wants to go. "But under one condition." He declared with a dubious tone.

"And Wh.." Before I knew it, he had brought his other arm around me, enclosing me entirely in a hug. Hi, what are you doing? Sneak attacks like that are completely forbidden, at least give me time to prepare myself. The tables have completely turned on me and now Hachiman was leaning more into me. Stop it, can't you tell I am getting squished. At this rate I will turn into a pancake.

Hachiman leaned his face nearer to me, his warm breath tickling my ears. "Just so you know, this is only half the payment." I instantly stopped struggling against his grasp, my wide eyes and my face burning hot. Only half? What was he talking about? If this was only half then I don't want to know the other part of his payment would be like, "Hachi can you let me go."

"Why? You said you don't hate these kinds of things." I can almost imagine that smug grin across his face as I cursed myself for even saying that in the first place. My head sagged down feeling the extra weight being placed on it. Hachiman's chin rested on top of my head with his body leaning against my back and his arms wrapped around me in a relaxing hold.

Well, I guess this wasn't half bad.

"Hi, my head isn't a resting spot you know."

"If you want to go to Hokkaido then we can go this Friday." He completely ignored me, the nerve of this guy and top it off, he is pressing my head down even more. Anyways, did he say Friday? That's four days away so there is plenty of time.

Wait, wasn't I supposed to meet Yui and Hana on Friday? I will just have to ask them to meet later then. I am still anxious about meeting Yui so in a way I want to delay it. I will also have to ask Yukino if she is available to accompany me. Having her there will help me greatly since both Yui and Yukino as much as I hate to admit it are closer to each other than I am to Yui.

"Sure, we can go on Friday." I relaxed my body against his. "Hachi, you are not forcing yourself to go for my sake, are you?"

"Hmmm, what makes you think that?"

"Well, you didn't look exactly pleased when your aunt called. I don't want you to feel uncomfortable because I wanted to go."

"My aunt huh?" His voice was a little stern at the moment of his aunt, I wonder what kind of face he is making right now? "Don't worry, only my father's expended family lives there. Our family abandoned that place long ago."

"Alright." I wish I never brought up the aunt thing up, the air around us become rather heavy. I don't want to ruin the mood further by prompting him for information. Somethings are better of being unsaid.

Need to change the topic.

"So, do you have any plans for today? Or do you want to turn me into a marshmallow by hugging me all day." Not that I mind that, this is rather nice. Though, I don't want anyone else seeing me in this sorry state.

"The second options sounds tempting."

"Were you always such a tease? You used to be such a gloomy and creepy guy while watching everyone with your creepy eyes and the creepy way you walked."

"Don't you think you said creepy way too many times?"

I giggle, "That was me being nice to you."

"Then I wonder what would happen if you are not being nice to me."

A wide grin spread across my face. "Then you should probably run for your life."

"Are you planning on murdering me woman."

"Maybe."

"Who is the cheeky one now." Hachiman sighed, he removed his head and arms away from me and retreating back to his side of the sofa.

Finally, I can move now. And what do I do with my new found freedom you ask? I slump my head against Hachiman's shoulder. "But you have your good qualities too."

"Good qualities? I don't believe I had those." He laughed, his hand now gasping onto mine.

"Well, for one its extremely hard to ask you for help on anything but when you do, you really go to the extreme for the sake of the other person. Even enough to get hurt in the process." The last part caused my heart to ache.

Hachiman was always like this, self-sacrificing himself for others. It was an unpleasant feeling. What he did at prom last year, a prime example of how stupid he can be. Not only did he jeopardize his relationship with Yukinoshita, but everyone else too. His friends and family.

Even this marriage, it's a marriage of convenience set by our parents. Granted, they had their best intentions in mind for us. Hachiman was first to object against this followed by myself. But he was also the first to cave in, treating me with the utmost care. He even opened up to me, well for the most parts he did. There are still alot of unknowns that's bothering me. But I just have to patient.

I know he will tell me when the time comes.

"Before you had creepy and gross eyes but now, they look downright scary." I giggled, brushing my cheeks against his arm.

"Scary eyes? How do they even come in the good quality category?" He asked in shock.

"That way any potential home wrecker will be too scared to approach you." I beamingly told him.

"..." What, no reaction? Even though I said it in a light hearted way. "She will probably run away after seeing you rather than me." His voice was low but I heard him.

"What did you say?" I growled.

"Nothing. You heard nothing." He averted his eyes from me, more focused on the wall than me. Though, the corner of his mouth was craved upwards. He definitely said that on purpose.

I took a heavy breath, letting my short temper slip away.

"I don't have anything special planned for today. You wanna head to the mall to check out the stuff you want to buy."

"That sounds good."

"Alright then." Hachiman was the first to get off the sofa, his hand extending towards me. Accepting his gesture, I also got up and both of us made our way out of the room and down stairs.

Komachi was the first to look our way followed by the grandparents. It seems they were watching a comedy game show on tv. The grandfather immediately looked away from us as if disinterested.

"Oh, you're back. I was just about to start making lunch, how does curry sound. Komachi told me you like spicy food now. I can make curry but I am afraid I can't make it too spicy. Your grandfather and I can't won't be able to eat it." The grandmother made her way to the kitchen.

"Actually, we were about to head out." She looked a bit disappointed but still showed a smile.

"Oh, where are you going? Can't you go after eating?"

"Just going to the mall to buy some things for our room, the faster we get it done the better. We will just eat out."

"Alright, I will save you some till you two get back."

"Thank you." There was it again, that fake smile spread across his face. The grandmother also smiled back in a brighter mood again, her ahoge dancing side to side. "We are gonna leave then."

"Take care and look both ways before crossing the road. You don't want to get into another accident do you."

"We will." Without a Second to waste, Hachiman turned towards the entrance and quickly made his way across the living room and right out of the door. After almost compelled to call out to him to wait up, I also joined Hachiman outside.

His tall figure stood there in the lawn with arms folded. "Ready to go?"

Both of us joined our hands as we walked down the street slowly making our way towards the bus station.

"We could have left after eating you know. It wasn't like we are that desperate on buying those things from the mall." Though to be honest, even though our parents wanted us to get married, they were really ill prepared for the aftermaths. They pretty much gave us the money and told us to do everything else ourselves. "Your grandmother probably wanted to spend time with you."

Hachiman pretty much scoffed, "She never did."

"But she obviously cares for you, she even asked if you were doing alright in school and whether you had friends." I tried to convince him.

"Lip Service. She never liked me because I look like my father and grandfather. They are probably happy now because I went out of their sight." His voice became darker and filled with venom. His grip tightened around my hand squeezing it. I had to withdraw my hand away from his because it was starting to hurt.

Hachiman realized what he had done, staring down at me with wide panic-stricken eyes. He was quick to avert his gaze, his sharp narrowed eyes looking down at the pavement with his fist tightly clenched.

"I'm sorry." He muttered an apology just as he overtook me and was now walked in front.

I sighed, great, just great. Now he is down because he thinks he hurt me. I grabbed his hand firmly to get his attention and try to slow him down before things can go south. His eyes turned back and what greeted them was a deep frown. I held onto his hand dragging it towards me until Hachiman's form was walking besides me again. My hand slowly easing its way around his tense one.

"Feeling better now?" I asked after studying his now calm state.

"Sorry." He muttered an apology again but this time his voice was softer now. His eyes still tracing along the pavement.

"It's fine. I know you have been a little tense since your grandparents arrived. I won't pray into the matter but I can see it's not easy for you but you are trying your best to get along with them. I am really proud of you for that." He turned his face away from me. Oh my, is he embarrassed because I praised him. Hi, turn your face around, I wanna see.

After arrived at the bus stop soon after that. The bus was a little crowded and I was the only one who managed to get a seat while Hachiman remained standing. But after the next stop, I offered my seat to an old lady who in returned thanked me with a smile but that smile was quick to disappear when she saw my husband standing next to me. I guess I also need to get used to people seeing my terrifying looking husband and the whispers surrounding him.

I wonder how Mrs. Hikigaya manages it. I still remember how she was smiling without a care back at the hotel while standing between her own husband and son. I guess she is used to it by now.

When the bus reached the nearest stop to the mall, we got off and made our way to the massive building while wondering about all the things I have to buy. I guess we should start with the most basic things first. Things like furniture we can scout but buy later.

"Let's go to this shop first." I pointed to a clothing shop and started to drag Hachiman along with me.

"Don't you already have enough cloths?" Hachiman asked with a raised eyebrow.

"One can never have too many cloths available to them. Don't you know that, of course you don't because you are a guy. Plus, all those cloths are before I got married, I need new ones now. Now let's go."

After dragging Hachiman against his well, we entered the shop and I immediately started to pick out cloths at random and got inside the dressing room. After I put the dress on, I became a little nervous since this is the first time, I was about to do something like this. Before it was either Yui or Hina accompanying me to shopping but now it was my husband. With a heavy breath I came out of the dressing room.

"Well, how do I look." I studied Hachiman's face trying to judge what he might think about the new dress.

"Looks good." He bluntly answered.

"You say that but your face says that's it's so and so. So, this this is no good. Next." Did my husband just facepalm himself? Well get used to it because we are not leaving until you like a dress.

After much painstaking attempts, I was finally able to buy three dresses. This is the first time I brought cloths with my husband. I am so happy. Wait, why does Hachiman look as pale as a ghost? He is moving like he is half dead. Is he sick?

We raided, I mean we went to one store after the other, slowly adding more cloths and shoes to my collection. I even forced Hachiman to buy some cloths for himself, I was the one who picked for him of course. Though whatever I picked for him was according to his preference.

He did protest at first saying he doesn't need anything because he already has everything, he needs but that was no good. This is the first time we shopped together so this is an important event. In the end we only brought a bare minimum clothing for him and a new pair of running shoes. His old one looked extremely worn out, and that's a compliment considering the state they were in.

I was surprised that an hour went by so quick and I wasn't even half done yet. There is still much work to be done. Wait, why is Hachiman crying and who is this wallet-chan he is mumbling about. Is she a hidden mistress? Ah well, onto the next conquest.

"Let's go here next." Just one more store, that's the lie I told myself for the tenth time.

"Ah, let's get something to eat before we do anything else." Hachiman's voice was barely audible through all the bags he was carrying.

Maybe I went to overboard with the shopping spree this time. Well can you blame me, this is the first time we have done something like this. Fine, no more shopping, don't look at me like that, you making me look guilty.

The sound of buzzing interrupted Hachiman's scowling session. He was still frowning but his attention was diverted from me. I gave him a weak smile as he placed the bags down and fished out his phone. His brows deepened even further when he saw the display of the vibrating phone.

With a heavy sigh he answered the call. "Hi." He looked more annoyed than angry. "I am at the mall. Sorry I can't right now, I am with someone." He suddenly stopped talking and looked over to me. "Yeah, I am with her. No, it's not a date." He spoke in a low threatening growl. Just who was he talking to?

"I told you I will introduce her to you guys soon." Oh, was he talking to his friend? "What, you are coming? I told you no. Why are you so stubborn?" Whoever he was talking to, that person sure sounded like he was pushy. In spite of Hachiman's refusal, they didn't back down.

"Wait, don't drop the call." Hachiman let out a heavy sigh as he removed the phone from his ear, the frown never leaving his face. "And she hung up."

She? I tugged on his arm to get his attention, he looked at me with his features slowly relaxing. "Let me guess, your friends called?"

He nodded in affirmation. "They want to meet you and are on their way." He rubbed the back of his head in annoyance. "Sorry about them in advance. I can call again to stop them."

"No, it's fine. I don't mind meeting them now. You did say you will introduce me to them anyways so sooner the better." Besides, I am curious about them so it's a good thing I am able to meet them so soon.

"Alright, then let's go to the family restaurant we always eat at." He grabbed the bags and started to lead me towards the restaurant. Now that my shopping craze was gone, I felt bad for making him carry all those things. I offered to take half of the load but he refused saying they were light.

The restaurant was rather plain looking but it did have a homely feel to it. Currently it was empty, so as soon as we entered the girl at the counter attention was directed towards us straight away.

"Hi Hachiman." Oh, she greeted him. Does he know her? He did say he usual eats at this place. Is it because of her? I mean who wouldn't fall for a girl with those looks. Long crimson hair tied in a pony tail rest over her ample chest. Shinning ember eyes that will make anyone look away. And what's up with that smile, it's a nuke.

Why is she looking at Hachiman with that smile? It makes me nervous. In a panic, I looked at my husband and to my surprise he had a dull look on his face. How was he not effected by the beauty in front of him. Wait, why do I want him to be affected by it. Good job Hachiman, keep being uninterested.

"Surprised to see you here this early. Aren't you supposed to be at your part time job?"

"Took a break until school starts."

"I see." Her golden orbs shifted from my husband to me. For some reason I want to hide from her gaze. "Who is this? Don't tell me, your girlfriend?" Then she let out a giggle. "Just kidding. A gloomy guy like you can't have a girlfriend as pretty as this one." She laughed again.

You would be surprised how many girls actually liked this gloomy guy.

"Hmm, I don't think Mari told you yet but this is my wife Yumiko." I think she is his friend otherwise they wouldn't be casually talking to each other like that. Aren't you supposed to be doing your job though, do you have time for chit chat? "Yumiko, this is Sanada Himeko. She is a second year at Chiba university."

I had to blink a few times to process the information, Chiba University? How the hell did he manage to make friends with her. That does explain why she has this mature aura around her. Wait, are all his friends older than us?

"Wife?" She made a funny face and then laughed so hard she had to hold her stomach. "Who would have thought Hachiman of all people was capable of making a joke." Didn't that fat Pengin also say the same thing?

It's the true though. It's hard to comprehend at first but it's undoubtedly the truth.

Hachiman winced and turned towards me. "Ask her yourself."

The way she suddenly turned to face me made me jump. "Ah, Hikigaya Yumiko. Please to meet you."

"You guys are joking right?" She shifted her eyes between me and Yumiko. But one look at Hachiman's dead face and she understood that it was indeed not a joke. "No way."

I feel like a similar situation happened before. Oh right, at the park with that crazy woman. I guess this will repeat itself countless times now.

"Why don't you two sit down, my boss is glare at us." All of us gave a side glance at the middle age guy standing with another employee in uniform and sure enough he was glaring at Himeko. She smiled weakly at her boss and then turned towards us. "It's just the two of you right?"

"Mari and the rest of them are coming." Hachiman looks tired just by saying her name. Just who is Mari. I have to meet her.

"Alright, seats for five right. I guess it's six now. Just take the usual spot. You guys want to order now or when everyone gets here."

"Now would be better, it will be too chaotic later."

Sanada-san nods and takes our order. After that Hachiman grabs my hand and pulls me away to the far end of the restaurant with a big booth.

"So, is Sanada-san also part of your group of friends?"

"Yes, she is. We mostly eat dinner together here. Himeko's shift ends in the afternoon."

"Are all of them university students?" It's still alot to get my head around. It was pretty impressive he was hanging out with older people. It would be difficult to imagine something like this a year ago. Then again, a lot of hard to believe things had happened since then. The biggest one being, I am married to this dead eyed delinquent.

Not that I mind it.

I let my head fall on my husband's shoulder, my eyes half closed.

"Sanada-san didn't look like a bad person." So, I guess the rest of them should be nice people too.

"Hmmm, yeah. She is nice. What happened to you though, you froze up in front of her." He sounded amused. Maybe I should be the one asking if my suffering makes him happy.

"Ah, you noticed that. But can you blame me, I just didn't expect such a beautiful person to be your friend. Are all of them like that?" Otherwise, I would just end up being overwhelmed by them. Now I regret wanting to meet them.

"Pretty huh. I guess she is good looking." You guess? What the hell is wrong with you? Can't you see a natural beauty when she is standing right in front of you. I don't even think she has any makeup on.

"Well, everyone is unique in their own way." I was right, I am the only potato here. I was only confident in my looks but even that is out of the window now.

Hachiman grabs my hand. "You are worrying too much. Just relax alright."

"Easy for you to say." I might embarrass myself front of everyone. Hachiman doesn't know how I feel, the difference between us is huge, does it realize that. The reason he is in the group is because he is also unique. Meanwhile I am just a potato of a wife.

"Yumiko, I know how you hung around your own group back in school but you don't need to put up an act to impress anyone here. Just be yourself and they will accept you." I know he is trying to cheer me up but it's not reassuring in the least. I guess I will just have to do my best.

"My, don't you two look adorable." Sanada commented with a beaming smile. On second thought, let go of my hand so I can hide. Hachiman on the other hand looked unfazed and grabbed the food tray from Sanada.

"Thanks, Himeko." Isn't that a bit too much food for just the two of us? Maybe he ordered more since the rest of his friends are coming too.

"No problem. If you want to order anything, just call, I am surprised you ordered less than you usually do." Wait, you call this less? It's like an all you can eat.

"Just had a big breakfast." Hachiman explained as he had already started eating.

"Is that so, you do look different today. Much livelier and happier." This earned her a frown from my husband but it didn't affect her and she just brushed it off with a giggle. Then her gaze suddenly fell onto me and I had to straighten myself up, ah, why was she looking at me with such a blissful smile. "That goes for you too Yumiko-chan. Do you mind if I call you Yumiko-chan, everyone calls each other by their first name."

"Ah yes, I don't mind. Thank you for always looking after my husband Sanada-san." Why does it feel like I am talking to my partner's parents for the first time? Am I that nervous? Isn't it the guy who is usually stuck in this situation?

"Just call me Himeko. No need for honorific here."

"Alright, thanks."

"Alright then, sorry to interrupt your little date with my presence. Enjoy your private time until the others get here." She gave us a teasing smile.

"Like I said, it's not a date." Hachiman growled with his mouth stuffed with food. He really must have a big appetite

"Yeah, yeah. Keep telling yourself that. Right Yumiko-chan." Can you please go back to teasing Hachiman and not include me in it? Mrs. Hikigaya and Komachi are enough for teasing so I don't want another one in my life. And no, it's not a date, even though I was having fun just being alone with Hachiman.

"Well.." I tried to speak but Hachiman interrupted me.

"Don't you have work to do Himeko?" Ah, saved by the husband. Good job Hachiman.

What's with that pout Himeko-san, it's too cute. "Well then, I guess I just have to leave the rest to Kaede. Good luck Hachiman and please no fights with Mari this time, my manager is at his breaking point." She turned around and went back to the counter where her boss was standing with a frown.

"Ah, doesn't she get into trouble with the manager if she slacks off?" I asked a little worried and what does she mean by fight?

Hachiman scoffed, "you would think that but if he dares fire her then he will be out of business." Was that a threat? I just stared at my husband trying to understand just what the hell he just said. "Don't misunderstand what I just said." That's exactly what I am doing. "Let me explain, if Himeko leaves, then a lot of customers who come because of her won't be invested to come to the store again. The manager knows that so no matter how much everyone causes a ruckus, he can't do anything."

"You guys are evil." And what's with that smug smile. You guys are totally taking advantage of the poor guy.

"It does have its down side. Sometimes someone comes in and tries to flirt with Himeko."

I sighed, "Let me guess, you guys scare them away."

"Oh, you are catching on." He let out a small laugh.

Isn't he enjoying this a little too much? Well, whatever. During all the talking, both of us had finished our meal. I wonder how long his friends gonna take to arrive.

"Damn that Mari." Cursing your friend is no good Hachiman. "I should have expected this from her. Always doing random things."

"Why not call them." That's the obvious thing to do.

"I texted her and she say she is almost here."

"Just wait a little longer then. We have nothing to do either way." Except to buy some essential items because I was too focused on shopping. "What kind of person is Mari anyways." Her name has been flying around so she must be an amazing person.

"She is nothing special, just a loud brutish annoying woman who will drag you around against your will."

"Who is a loud brutish woman huh?" Before I could even turn around to see the source of the sound, an arm came from behind and placed Hachiman's head in a lock. "Mind repeating that one more time Hachi." Her voice was no different than the roar of a beast.

Half stunned by the sudden assault; my eyes landed on a woman with black shoulder length hair with dark predator like eyes.

"Did I mention she is part gorilla." Hachiman had his hands on the woman's arm and succeeded in preying her hands off his neck though not without resistance.

"Just who are you calling a gorilla huh? Are you tired of living or something, if so, I will gladly end you today." The kept up her efforts of strangling my husband.

"Mari, calm down you are disturbing others around you." A tall figure stood beside the woman, giving her a cold glare with his sharp blue eyes. In one swift motion he restrained the woman. But that wasn't the end of it, she relentlessly struggles against his grip and it seems he was having a hard time keeping her under control.

Wait, he called her Mari right. Then this violent woman was Mari that everyone was talking about.

"Let go Kei, I need to teach this brat a lesson." Mari growled still attempting to escape from her captor's iron grip. Meanwhile Hachiman who had started the ruckus in the first place was standing right in front of Mari with a smug smile. Don't you think you will make her even angrier by doing that.

"Hachiman, don't just stand there. Apologize before she really flips." The man trying his best to hold Mari in place yelled at Hachiman. In a split second, Mari forced her arm to break free and proceeded to land an uppercut on her captor's tanned face. While he was still reeling from the impact, Mari turned around grabbing his dark blue hair and headbutted him.

I along with other bystanders, we stared at the scene unfolding right in front of us with wide eyes. Just what the hell was going on?

After dealing with the first victim, she instantly directed her fury towards Hachiman who stood in place watching his opponent keenly.

Just as she took a step forward, she was suddenly halted as a haze of crimson came into view. Himeko-san stood between the two while managing to glare at them both. Mari who was in full attack mode just a second ago became docile in a blink of an eye. It amazed me how she brough the situation under control just like that.

Himeko-san let out a sigh and walked over to the man who was sitting on the ground with one hand rubbing his forehead. She offered to help him up but he refused and immediately got back up and glared at Mari.

"I told you guys not to fight anymore, didn't I." Even though she was angry, she still looked graceful. How is that possible. I must learn from her.

"But Himeko-chan, Hachiman was the one who started it. He called me a gorilla again" She winced like a child.

"I am not the one who placed a near choke." Hachiman countered earning him a glare from Mari.

"Enough, both of you sit down, now." She scolded them, and just like that they did what they were told. They even sat together, though Mari was punching Hachiman's arm while the latter was taking it without even blinking.

Himeko-san sighed again and turned towards the guy with the tan. "You alright Kei?" She asked with worry in her voice. She even touched his forehead checking if he was hurt or not. A smile graced her expression once she was satisfied that he was alright.

"Next time I will just let Mari punch Hachiman." Kei remarked to which Himeko pouted.

"Geez, it's like I am dealing with elementary students." She exclaimed and looked over to me. "Sorry you had to see that. Those two can get out of hand sometimes."

"She might as well get used to it." Kei added while fixing his dark blue hair.

"Yumiko, this is Akira Kei, you can also call him Kei. Kei, this is Yumiko, Hachiman's wife. It's still hard to believe you two are married." She then turns to where Mari was sitting, "and that undisciplined girl over there is Mashiba Mari."

"To think she dragged me out of my house to meet you and starts fighting, again." He sure was annoyed. Since I saw Kei, his little frown never left his face. It's like the glare is a natural part of his features He is kind off familiar to Hachiman in that way.

"Does this kind of thing happen often?" Hachiman was rude too her for no reason, of course Mari would get angry. But what happened after was a little out of hand.

"Every time they meet." Kei answered.

"Do they hate each other?" Otherwise, they wouldn't have a reason to fight like that. That was violent, what's more we are in public.

Himeko gave me a weak smile. "Far from it. Those two are as close as siblings." I couldn't help but raise my eyebrow at her statement. Siblings don't fight like that so you can stop with that painful smile.

I looked over to where both Hachiman and Mari sat and I was surprised to see Hachiman was pinching her cheeks while Mari was crying away. I was having doubts about the maturity levels of those two. Hachiman, I thought you were a responsible adult but what is this.

"Go on and greet her. Kei did say she wants to meet you. Kei, you haven't eaten right. You want the usual right?" Her became expression become softer when she is talking to Kei, does she like him?

"Yeah, the usual. Mari dragged me before I got the chance to eat." Oh, he isn't even looking at her. I know the feel, I would also look away from her.

"Alright, I will bring you and Mari the food so wait for it." She smiled brightly at Kei and walked away.

Once Himeko-san was gone, Kei was finally able to return to his old frowning self. At least that's what I think his real self was. On the side note, Himeko-san and Kei both like each other. I wonder if they are aware of each other feelings. "Let's go and sit down. Those two are giving me unpleasant stares." Turned around and sure enough, both Hachiman and Mari were glaring at Kei.

"They are in prefect sync." I remarked.

"I know." He let out a tired breath and walked over to the table with myself behind him.

Even after we sat down, both Hachiman and Mari continued to glare at Kei much to his annoyance.

"Can you two knock it off already." He slammed his fist against the table startling me. Is everyone in this group violent? Why can't you guys be civilized like Himeko-san. "You two are getting on my nerves."

"You," Mari sneered. "Why are you sitting with her."

"I think he has a death wish." Same as Mari, Hachiman also had his arms folded across his chest. Just as Himeko said earlier, the two of them are practically siblings. I frowned at the statement but now it's hard to deny it after seeing it with my own eyes.

"I agree, let's bury him." She cracked her knuckles in preparation.

"I am getting tired of this. If you want to sit with her so badly then just say so." Kei grumbled as he got up. Before I knew it Mari had teleported from her previous position to her new one right beside me. How did she switch places so fast; I didn't even see her even move. Is she a ninja?

Kei sighed and sat down next to the sulky Hachiman. He seems disappointed. Did he want to sit next to me? Too bad, for misbehaving earlier you are grounded on your current seat. On the side note, Mari was grinning from ear to ear. I have a bad feeling about this.

"Hello Yumiko-chan, I finally get to meet you. Even though you two literally got married yesterday I really wanted to meet you. Hachi said to introduce you to everyone next week but I couldn't wait that long. My, you really are a cute one. As expected of Hachi for landing a cute girl like you. If he bothers you then feel free to tell me about it so I can set him straight. Oh, where are my manners. I am Mashiba Mari. Just call me Mari. My, you really are cute, I just want to hug you."

Her hand to mouth filter seemed to be bugged, why because she was already hugging me before she said she wants to hug me. I know this is the first time we meet but can you please not crush me to death, aren't you using too much strength.

"Hachi, can I take her home with me?" What, what are you planning on doing with me woman?

"No." My husband instantly shot her proposal down.

I can't even break free, just how strong is this woman, no wonder she took down Kei who is physically imposing as Hachiman. Someone please help. I looked over to Hachiman but to my surprise he had a soft smile on his face.

Geez, are you really happy that she got to meet me, weren't you annoyed earlier about how she forced everyone to meet? Following Hachiman's example, Kei's frown had disappeared replaced by a smile as well. Mari arms slowly relaxed from around me as her figure withdrew.

Just as the forceful embrace ended, tears started to flow down her face and she proceeded to wipe them away with her jacket's sleeve. I was the one who got almost crushed, so why are you crying. "Sorry for hugging you so suddenly, I was just so happy my body moved on its own."

"Ah, Mari is crying again." Himeko appeared with another set of order. She quickly sat the tray down and used tissue to clean Mari's face. "Hachiman, did you make her cry again."

"What, why is that when she cries it's my fault." My dead fished eyed of a husband questioned in his defence.

"It's all Hachi's fault." Mari cried out.

"I rest my case." Himeko having wiped the tears away went back to work.

Mari-san's emotions are all over the place, it's kind of overwhelming. She was so random that I had no idea what she might do next. I guess I will just have to keep my guard up. But I guess that's not possible around her considering that she can push both Hachiman and Kei around.

In that case my last resort is Himeko-san. From what I have seen Mari-san is weak against Himeko-san. I will have to play my cards right if I am to survive against this random woman.

"So, Hachiman did you solve the problems Masashi gave you?" Kei asked Hachiman while he ate his burger.

"About half of them. Considering it was made by him, he purposefully made it difficult to solve." Were they talking about something study related? Well, they are university students and some of the books Hachiman had were also university level so I guess he studies with them.

"Yeah, I know. Masashi said it was a test for you to see how much you have improved. Mind sharing what kind of questions he gave you. I won't help you solve them though."

"I am aware. I wouldn't have accepted help either way. Anyways, about the question."

It was amazing how both Hachiman and Kei became super focused. Even if I tried to focus on what they were saying I couldn't really understand them, so I let them be in their own world and switched to the person sitting beside me.

"Yumiko-chan, you didn't order anything. If you want, you can share with me." Mari-san happily hovered her food right in front of me. I had to back away in response.

"It's fine, Hachiman and I have already eaten." Hachiman was right about eating before his friends arrived.

"Is that so." She backed away with a disappointed face. It's a good thing she did because she was eating the same food Hachiman ordered before and I made a mistake by taking a sample of it. It was super spicy, how can both of them eat that stuff. I had to drink a lot of water because of that.

So, is she the reason why Hachiman's food preference changed? He did like sugary food before but now it has drastically change to spicy food. Even when he was around Mari-san, he acted different, as if mimicking her mood.

My eyes traced Hachiman's figure from across the table, his dead charcoal eyes were trained on Kei as he conveyed with him. Even while seated, his posture didn't break, but it was firm. Each word he spoke was clear and calculated. This was Hachiman to the outside world.

When we are alone, his gaze becomes softer and his voice gentle. The wall that surrounds him break away in an instant. The fact that he does all this only when I am around shows how much he trusts me. Or rather how much of his trust he has placed to me. It really makes me happy.

Now today, I saw another side of Hachiman. How he acted when dealing with Mari.

Even though he spoke ill about her at first and looked all annoyed, I didn't sense any hostility towards the person in particular. In one instance they are fighting each other, but in the end, Hachiman didn't even lay a finger on her.

Then Hachiman was playfully teasing her while the latter was crying, it was as if the fight earlier didn't even happen. Finally, they join forces against a common enemy.

All of this under a short while. Those two under these moments looked close together. Himeko-san called them sibling. Not to disrespect Komachi or anything but Mari-san's bond with Hachiman looked stronger. She did rush over here to meet me who was Hachiman's wife.

Why though, why was she in such a hurry. From the moment I met her she didn't give me a critical or jealous look nor did she give me any judgemental remark. From the moment we met, she has been carrying such a blissful smile. Honestly, she looks like a kid who got the latest toy on her birthday and like a kid she almost squeezed the life out of the toy which was me in this case.

None of her actions felt forceful or an act. She expressed her full emotions to the utmost, displaying them for the world to see. Even Kei who had a rough personality was open, except towards Himeko-san that is. Is he the shy type? They probably know they like each other but haven't expressed it fully.

Will probably ask Hachiman later to reconfirm.

"Hi Yumiko-chan." Mari-san shifted closer to me leaning against my body. Her warm breath tickling my ear. Hi, don't suddenly invade my personal space. But I guess she is the type of person who doesn't know anything about that. "So, is that the ring Hachiman bought for you? It looks pretty and it suits you."

She slid back to her former position after saying words only I heard. The smile gracing her face was unchanging. "That idiot was going to buy a necklace but I told him to give you a ring instead. Wait, maybe he should have bought both of them. Hmmm."

Luckily, Hachiman and Kei were too busy talking to each other to pay attention to Mari's words. Wait, why are they glaring at each other, don't fight you two. Haven't you caused enough trouble. Himeko-chan might lose her job you know.

So, it was Mari that gave him the suggestion. Well, she was right in a way. The ring was more impactful considering what I did right after receiving it. I still have no idea how I managed to do such a thing.

"So, you told him to give me a gift?"

Mari-san let out a chuckle, "yes. he was completely clueless. Can't blame him either since he never dated anyone seriously."

"I wasn't clueless." Hachiman interrupted. Well, if that is true then why are you looking away.

"You totally were." She laughs again. "He was worried about you. After what had happened." After what happened? Don't tell me, did he tell her about the encounter with Yukino and Hayama. Well, it's not like it's a secret or anything. I even told Saki about them being engaged to each other but nothing about what really happened. Just how much did Hachiman tell her?

"Mari." Hachiman's voice echoed out drawing Mari's action towards him. My husband did nothing nor did he say anything. He just sat there with a stoic expression. Mari's body suddenly flinched, and she immediately turned towards me.

"I'm sorry." She said those words with a pained expression. After uttering an apology, Mari shifted her body away from me, leaving a lot of space between us. Seeing how things had turned out, worry clouded Hachiman's face while Kei shifted his hawk like eyes between everyone present.

It seems I just destroyed the mood completely. When I was still part of Hayama's group. If anyone disturbed the mood of the group, Hayama would just fix it with a few words, and we would all pretend like the issue never existed in the first place.

But sadly, no one here can fix the silence reigning over us. It's not Mari's fault, she was only trying to talk to me, but I was the one who was being too passive. Now I made everything worse.

"Mari, you overdid it again. You can't expect her to get along with everyone right off the bat. These things take time and not everyone is the same. I told you countless times not to be forceful to other people around you." Kei being in a foul mood battered Mari relentlessly.

"But you can force Kei around like you usually do." Hachiman came to Mari's defence. But it can't undo the damage done.

It's my fault Mari-san is getting blamed for all this. I must do something, say something. I don't want to ruin their group because of my own awkwardness.

But before I could do anything, Mari was already glaring viciously towards Kei. Oh no, she got angry again. If things turn out like last time, then another fight might break out. Kei was unaffected by Mari's hostility remained seated with his arms crossed.

When she balled her fist, I was expecting her to launch her attack towards Kei but that did not happen. Instead, I was surprised when she smacked both her palms against her cheeks. What followed after that was a grin ever bigger than the last one. "Thanks Kei."

"No problem, always glad to give you a reality check." Even Kei returned a smile back to her. "I personally blame Himeko and Kaede for spoiling you."

"I bet Himeko-san would be happy to hear that." Hachiman remarked with a smirk.

"Unless you have a death wish." Kei turned towards Hachiman and grabbed his collar but that smirk didn't leave my husband's face.

Mari-san immediately got up from her seat and yelled, waving her arms around like crazy. "Himeko, Himeko guess what Kei just said."

I turned around to see Himeko-san let out a sigh and walked towards us. "Geez, you guys are always bothering me at work. What is it this time?"

Kei practically jumped off from his seat and grabbed onto Mari's shoulder forcing her to seat down but stood her ground, a twisted smile on her face. "It's nothing Himeko, sorry for disturbing you at work."

Himeko looked on with a frown as the two caused another scene in the restaurant. I am surprised we haven't been kicked out yet. My eyes wander around and it seems the other customers didn't even bother to look our way. It was like they were used to seeing this on a daily bases.

"Kei was just telling us how amazing your cooking is. He really likes to eat your curry." Hachiman told her while the other two were busy with their tug of war.

"Is that so." A smile instantly spread across her face with a light shade of red on her cheeks. "It makes me happy to hear that. I don't mind making lunch for you every day."

"Sure." And just like that, Kei shrunk back in his chair.

"I will go back to work then." She addressed Kei was a bright face which caused him to avert his face completely. Before leaving however she turned towards Mari with a frown. "And you," Himeko raised her hands and grabbed onto Mari's cheeks. "Behave for once." This scene, it was like I was seeing a child getting scolded.

Himeko left shortly after stretching Mari's cheeks. "Himeko scary." Mari said with teary eyes once the former was gone. I wonder who was scarier in this situation, Himeko or Mari who acted like a child even though she was older than both me and Hachiman.

Once the situation settled back down Kei continued to glare at Mari. "You, do you get sick pleasure when messing with me?"

"Isn't it fine. Himeko was happy and now you get to eat her homemade lunch every day. It's a good way of getting closer with her." Suddenly, the air around Mari changed. A more mature aura engulfed her. Where did the violent childish side go off to? Was it exorcised after Himeko-san spread her cheeks? Yeah, that must be it. "Himeko is patently waiting for you, but that doesn't mean you let her keep waiting."

This time Kei didn't debunk her and sat with his arms crossed, his gaze slightly down.

"You know I told you this many times but I don't mind Himeko dating you. I already know you will take care of her." Her words were soft and gentle. I was genuinely surprised by this, was this the real Mari. But I didn't feel like her actions before were forceful or an act.

"I know." Kei finally let his voice heard. "Just give me a bit more time."

"I know you have your own problems to deal with but don't take too long alright."

"Thanks." Kei let out a heavy breath as his eyes followed Himeko-san's form.

A smirk formed on Mari's lips. "To think you got out done by Hachi. I was pretty sure after Kaede and Masashi got together that it would be yours and Himeko's turn. Now all that is left is for Hachiman to beat you in a match."

"Actually, Kei already lost to me last week." Hachiman added.

"No way, you finally beat Kei." The smile on her face immediately got replaced by a frown. "And why wasn't I invited?"

I raised my eyebrows after seeing both men retreated back refusing to meet Mari's gaze.

"You were preparing for a teat so we didn't want to disturb you." Hachiman, why are you sweating so much. Are you that afraid of this woman? Does she have any blackmail material on you? If so, then why was Kei trying to sneak away from the booth, sadly his attempt was unsuccessful because Mari completely stopped him by just her glare.

"Well?" She demanded.

"Can you blame us; you are already failing your classes and Masashi told us not to disturb you." Kei retorted.

"Humph." She pouted while crossing her arms. "It's not my fault the professor has a grudge against me."

"Maybe you should stay focused in class instead of sleeping." Kei countered.

"But classes are so boring, they make me sleepy." Mari winced. "Anyways, so you won Hachi. Congrets." She gave raven haired teen a big grin, even getting up from her seat leaning over the table and started rubbing his messy hair.

"Hi, stop that." Hachiman frowned as his hair was getting assaulted.

"Make me." Mari cheekily replied and continued to ruin Hachiman's hair while the latter looked like a kid getting praised by his mother. After Mari sat back down, the beaming smile remained, "you have come a long way Hachi. I am really proud of you."

In return for Mari's heartfelt smile, Hachiman just grumbled and turned his face away. "My, someone is embarrassed." Mari commented and giggled causing Hachiman to rumble more. Even though he had turned his face away from Mari, I clearly saw it. That faint smile on his lips.

I placed my hand on my chest, trying to surpass the growing pain. I didn't even know what was happening around me anymore. My senses only came back to me after Mari's voice reached my ear.

"Yumiko-chan, are you alright?" Mari voiced her concern, her body once again leaned close to me with her hand on my shoulder.

"Ah, yes. Sorry for making you worry." Even Hachiman and Kei were staring my way. The little back and forth between them had ended and once again I was the cause of the problem. Maybe meeting his friends was a mistake afterall. What was I hoping to achieve anyways? Did I just want to confirm they were good people or did I want to be accepted by them since I abandoned my old group?

But aren't I just getting in the way? It's not like I am contributing anything to the conversation. My presence here is only getting in the way. Maybe I should just excuse myself and go home. Meeting Hachiman's friends? I only succeeded in making a fool of myself.

A hand brushed against my hair. The same hand which was on my shoulder was now gently stroking my head. "There, there. It's alright. You don't have to force yourself to fit in nor apologize for anything." Were my thoughts that readable. Of course, they were. It was plain as day just be looking at my depressed figure.

"Take your time alright." She pulled her hand away and retreated to her representative spot but she still looked at me with a grin. Thanks to her actions, some of the dark clouds had dispersed and I felt a little better. It was like she had casted some kind of magical spell. Is this the power she had on people? She was random and utterly unpredictable but one thing was certain she deeply cared about those around her.

"Thanks." The first word had escaped my mouth after a long reign of silence.

Mari's face at first went into shock, then a big smile as she shrieked and slid over to my side in an instant. Once again, I found myself trapped in her arms with my face pressed against her chest. Again, I tried to break free but whatever I did was a failure. Why are you so strong you gorilla woman? Unhand me.

"Sorry, I couldn't help myself. You are just too adorable. Hi, Hachi can I take her home just for a day. Please. I promise to give her back to you in one piece." Wait, what are you planning on doing to me? What do you mean in one piece? Are you planning on dismantling me or something? Hachiman, you useless husband, can't you see your wife is getting kidnapped right in front of you. So don't sit there is a stupid smile and save me.

"There, do you feel better now?" She released me finally allowing me some breathing space.

I blinked a few times trying to process what she just said. I did feel alot better now. My mind was alot clearer too and my body lighter. It was as if all the remaining stress had been washed away.

"I do. Thanks." I appreciate her gesture. It was because of her my mood had improved unexpectedly. Her actions were questionable but it did the job.

"That's good. I guess it's time for round two." Her lips sneered up in an evil grin.

"Wait, what? No, stay away." I tried to retreat but the wall was to my back and I was completely trapped. "Stop." My protest fell on deaf ears and so a wild gorilla fell upon me. This is getting out of hand. Once trapped again, I didn't offer any resistance because I knew it was useless against this beast nor did I expect any assistance from my husband either. I am definitely filing for a divorce. Throwing your wife at the mercy of wild gorilla is unforgivable.

"Mari-san, can you let go?" I guess I have no choice, since the brute force and outside intervention was impossible, I will just have to use the diplomatic approach.

"Hmmm, but I don't want to." Curse you gorilla woman. "Maybe under one condition." Alright, negotiation was under way. Now state your demands, anything will do as long as I am free from you. "Call me Mari onee-san."

My mind immediately went dead.

What was this? Is this revenge? Is it revenge for when I forced Komachi to call me onee-san? Is this karma? People are right, karma really is a ***. Wait a minute, is this some conspiracy? Did Komachi pay Mari to torture me like this? I am onto you Komachi and your schemes.

But even for this, I refuse to say that. I still have some dignity left in me and I won't defile it by saying that. "If you don't say it then you will be stuck like this forever and ever."

"Please, let me go Mari onee-san." Mari released me with a victorious smile while I was left in tears. I feel violated. Though, this does not mean I am going to stop Komachi from calling me big sister. I do feel happy when she calls me that.

"So, I guess this is Hachiman's wife." An unfamiliar voice penetrated my thoughts. Everyone eyes shifted to the two figures standing next to the booth. My focus directed to the girl first since she was the most striking.

She too was staring down at me with her confident chocolate brown eyes. It made me uncomfortable, it was like she was trying to assess me while holding a bright smile on her cherry lips.

"You guys finally came, sorry about calling out of nowhere." Mari turned towards the new comers taking her attention off me momentarily.

"You don't feel sorry about dragging me around." Kei grumbled.

"Well, it's because its you. That's why." Mari replied back immediately with a smirk.

"It's fine. I wanted to meet Hachiman's wife anyways and as expected she is exceptionally cute." She kept on scanning me up and down as if I was a rare item. I had to cover my chest to protect myself from her carnivorous eyes. Then she turned her attention to my husband giving him a thump up. "Good going. Kaede approves." One wild gorilla was enough but now a wild tiger has appeared. I prefer dealing with the gentle Himeko-san.

"Oh right, let me introduce them." Mari first pointed at the girl, "this is Fuugo Kaede and the nerd next to her is her boyfriend Yamazaki Masashi."

"Introducing me as a nerd from the start huh? I guess I should call you soon to be collage drop out." Yamazaki Masashi smiled as he took a seat besides Kei while Fuugo Kaede sat right next to Mari. Calling him a nerd was a bit too much, wasn't it? He looked quite handsome too. He had the same brown hair has Kaede albeit his was a lighter colour while Kaede had dark brown.

"Wait, Masashi. Why are you staring at her so much? Don't tell me you have fallen for her charm. In that case I don't mind taking Hachiman for myself." What did she say? Does this woman have a death wish? Though, Masashi-san has been staring at me since he got here.

"Did I stare too much? Sorry about that. But I think I have seen her somewhere before." Masashi-san starts tapping his finger against the table while humming. Is he trying to remember where he has seen me? I doubt we ever met before, otherwise I would have remembered a handsome guy like him. "Oh right, are you by any chance the daughter of doctor Miura."

I instantly raised my eyebrows. "How did you?"

"Masashi, don't tell me you were once childhood friends who promised to marry in the future but got separated but now are finally reunited." What's wrong with your wild imagination? Aren't you reading too many novels? Just when I thought that Mari was the only weird one in the group but this woman even tops her.

"In that case, Masashi I am breaking up with you, you are free to pursue your childhood promise without worry. As for me." She got up and ran behind the booth and the next thing she did made my blood boil. She positioned herself directly behind Hachiman and proceeded to entrap him in her arms. Her face leaned on his shoulder as her lips curled up in a twisted smile. "Guess I will just take Hachiman for myself then."

"Kaede, can you stop fooling around. Can't you see Yumiko is glaring at us." Hachiman protested with his natural face showing cracks, a hint of panic spreading through him.

"Hmmm, isn't that fine then." Her scheming eyes bore into me just waiting to see my meltdown. Truly, I would have murdered her on the spot if it wasn't for Mari's monstrous strength keeping me down. And you boyfriend, why are you sitting there with a smile, your girl is flirting with a married man. Have you no shame.

"Calm down Yumiko-chan. Kaede is just trying to mess with you." Mari pleaded while keeping me pinned to my seat. Unhand me Mari, I am about to end his woman's whole career. I will bury her along with my cheater husband.

"Wow, Hachiman your wife is scary. She looks like she will kill us." If you understand that then why are you still clinging onto him.

"Ahhh." Himeko-san appeared right behind Kaede and karate chopped her head. Kaede was forced to released my husband and grabbed her head with teary eyes. "Himeko." Kaede cried out.

"Stop causing trouble for Hachiman. You are always like this." Himeko then grabbed Kaede's ear and started to pull her along with her while Kaede cried out to be released. Humph, that's what you get for flirting with my husband. Good job Himeko-san, I knew I could count on you.

"Now sit down and behave." Himeko-san scolded Kaede who was too busy rubbing her ear.

"Himeko is a bully." Kaede frown and turned away.

"You have only yourself to blame." She then turned towards Masashi who kept on smiling throughout the clown fiesta. "Masashi would you like to order something?"

"What about me, I also want to order." Kaede interrupted to which she received another chop on the head. "Tyrant." She complained back while fixing her crispy long hair.

"We already ate on our way here so just tea would be nice." The boyfriend completely unfazed by his girlfriend getting abused just watched on with amusement. Aren't you having too much fun watching the situation in front of you? And what's with that smile, I know you are handsome but it's giving me the creeps

I will take coffee then." Kei added.

"I want orange juice." Mira sang.

"Strawberry for me." Kaede having been recovered also ordered.

"Yumiko, do you want something to drink?" Hachiman asked but I promptly turned away from him and found refuge with Mari. To think my greatest enemy will become my ally in times like these. Hachiman looks completely dejected, good. He only has himself to blame for this. I forgave him once when he was involved with Kotomi but doing it the second time was unacceptable.

Let this be an example for defying me.

"Ah, I think I overdid it this time." Kaede joined her hands together in a clumsy and cute manner. "Sorry Yumiko-chan." Do you honestly think acting all cutesy will undo the damage? And what's with that smirk, you are not sorry at all.

Mari giggled happily, "isn't it fine. Now Yumiko-chan is glued to me and Hachi can't stop me from taking her home with me." Do whatever you want. My husband betrayal was the last stew.

"Anyways, I guess coffee for Hachiman and I will add strawberry juice for Yumiko-chan. Is that fine?" Himeko looked at only me, I guess she already knows Hamachi will drink coffee.

"Strawberry is fine." I said in a low voice still leaning against the beaming Mari who looked like she was having a field day.

"Alright, I will be right back with your drinks." Himeko dismissed herself escaping from the awkward atmosphere surrounding the group.

This time it's not my fault alright. If you want to blame someone for ruining the mood then blame Kaede here. "Now, now. Kaede was just teasing you. I do admit a jealous Yumiko is too cute." Mari then looked over to Hachiman. "Don't you agree Hachi?"

Hachiman was about to open his mouth but one glare from me shut him up.

This action didn't go unnoticed by everyone. Kaede giggle was first to be heard. "I guess we know who the dominant one is in this relationship. Though jokes aside, how did you two get together. When Mari called saying Hachiman got married, I honestly thought she was joking. So, what happened, were you too that in love with one another?"

Since I had taken Hachiman out of the picture, Kaede's focus was solely on me along with the other members of the group. "Now, now." Mari interjected taking the pressure off me. "Their parents who were childhood friends arranged the marriage. They also go to the same school too."

"Ah, as expected of Mari, you already know before everyone else." Yes, she was surprisingly well informed. My eyes drifted to Hachiman who sat there in silence. I wonder again, just how much did he share with Mari. If the two of them were really that close as everyone else and I myself observed. Then everything?

"But arrange marriage nowadays, it's still hard to believe. But doesn't it sound like one of those romance mangas." Kaede cupped her cheeks in delight. "Ah, I am so jealous. I wish that would happen to me." Wait a minute, aren't you already dating? I would feel sorry for your boyfriend if he actually showed some emotions except that stupid smile.

There is nothing to be jealous about considering what caused all this in the first place. Though, only I am to blame for pursuing something that was never mine to begin with. But I guess, through some miracle everything worked out in the end.

"Actually, arrange marriages aren't that uncommon. Alot of cultures around the world has them and that also includes Japan." Kaede's boyfriend Masashi finally spoke his first few words. He adjusted his glasses and pointed towards Kei. "Big families like Kei or mine still carry on the tradition of arrange marriage. We all know Kei is engaged while my parents have found a potential suitor for my little brother recently."

I turned towards Kei who was glaring exceptionally hard with his fist clenched. So, is that why he hasn't, no, rather he can't confess to Himeko-san?

"But Hachiman's family and yours is different." Kaede countered and then turned towards me. "You two must have liked each other a little right? Otherwise marrying someone just like that makes no sense."

"Kaede, now is not a good time to talk about it." Mari was the one to stop Kaede ruthless questions.

"What do you mean?" Kaede asked confessed.

"It's fine Mari." Hachiman spoke up. All eyes immediately shifted towards him but Hachiman didn't panic and kept his composure. "The truth is, I have liked Yumiko since last year but I was unable to get close to her because she was interested in some other guy"

"What? Really?" Kaede cried out. "But you never said anything about it. Is that why you resisted all my advances?" This woman, she was really pushing her luck isn't she.

"So, when the arranged marriage thing came up, I took the chance and confessed to Yumiko." Hachiman took a deep breath and continued. "I only won her over because I proposed to her."

"No way." Kaede let out a high-pitched scream.

"I am surprised, I did not expect that from you Hachiman." Himeko's voice suddenly rang out. How long was she standing there? Himeko-san sat the tray containing the drinks down and everyone picked their representative ones. Himeko-san after judging that everyone was satisfied, she left leaving the flustered Kaede.

"So, Hachiman confessed huh?" Masashi sipped on his tea, letting the cup fall on its tray. His trademark smile was gone replaced by an emotionless one. I don't know but just looking at him sent chills down my spine. I wonder why. "It's good though right." A smile reappeared on his lips.

"It's good? You kidding me? This is huge." Kaede waved her arms around. "We should celebrate. Wait a minute." Kaede who was burst with joy and happiness suddenly glared at Hachiman. "Why wasn't I invited to the wedding." Her voice became dark making me flinch. Who knew she had that side to her too?

Hachiman swallowed hard, "well, it happened so fast that we didn't have time to tell anyone and there was no wedding. We just submitted our papers to the ward office and that it." Well at least that part was true.

He didn't have to lie to his friends like that. Only Kaede was hyped up after listening to Hachiman. An energetic person like Mari remained silent alongside Kei. And I guess Masashi's earlier remark was also because he knew Hachiman was lying.

Kaede pouted, "that's still inexcusable. You know I would have loved to make her dress."

"Kaede, you might be good at making cloths but you are not a professional. So, it doesn't make sense for you to make a dress for Yumiko." Kei brutally debunked Kaede.

"Why do you have to be this blunt." Kaede made an angry face but she only succeeded in making herself more adorable. She makes Yui's angry face to shame. "I will have you know that my professor says I am as good as a professional."

"Empty praise doesn't mean anything." Kei shot her down again without mercy.

Kaede teared up and crashed face first against Mari's chest. "Kei is bullying me again."

Mari could only let out a weak chuckle while brushing Kaede's bronze hair. "Anyways, Masashi you said before you have seen Yumiko-chan before. When was that?" Mari skilfully changed the subject.

I looked over to Masashi because I was curious too. I had surprised me when he said my father's name.

"Well, it was about third years ago at a medical convention." Three years ago? I was in middle school at that time. "My father introduced me to this man Miura Yato, he also brought his daughter along. Miura Yumiko." He looked over my way as my body was frozen stiff. "Though she was shorter and her hair wasn't long either. You didn't confirm whether Dr. Miura was your father so I didn't say anything."

"Masashi's memory is scary as ever." Mari was practically sweating. Yes, yes, I agree to that. Is he some kind of monster in disguise?

"As impressive as always." Kei affirmed and then shifted to me. "Is it true?"

"Huh? Well, I don't know. My father took me to a bunch of trips when I was in middle school but I don't remember the people I met during that time." I mean that was three years ago wasn't it. You are asking too much from me even if you ask me to remember stuff a month ago. Three years is definitely impossible. Does Masashi-san have a supercomputer for a brain?

"Masashi is amazing, even though he is creepy sometimes and too lax for his own good." Kaede sighed. Should you be saying that stuff to your boyfriend?

"He always has been like that, no one wanted to get close to him when he was a kid. Even scared the teachers away because he was too smart for his own good." Kei also let out a heavy breath.

"Kaede and Kei, can you not talk about your boyfriend and childhood friend like that?" It was pretty impressive that he still maintained that smile even though he was getting hammering by his girlfriend and friend.

"By the way, where is Yoshiteru? Mari, did you forget to invite him?" Kaede ignored her boyfriend and turned towards Mari.

"No, I called him and he has already met Yumiko in the morning. Besides its better to complete the sets I gave to him for the day. He has been motivated lately so I don't want to kill his momentum."

"Ah, you are too passionate when it comes to training Mari. Too bad Yoshiteru isn't here because I wanted to tease him. It's cute when he gets all flustered and blushes, at least I can get a reaction out of him, Hachiman's too boring sometimes." Hello, earth to Kaede. Your boyfriend is right there. Have you no shame? And you boyfriend, why are you freely letting her mess with other people so freely. There is definitely something wrong with both of them.

"Yoshiteru, you mean Pengin?" Was he that fat white haired guy that invaded the house in the morning? The one I promised to grill when we get back to school.

"Pengin?" Both Mari and Kaede asked in unison while Kei arched his eyebrows at me. Hachiman on the other hand face palmed himself, too embarrassed to even look at me.

"That's what Yumiko calls Yoshiteru." Hachiman clarified.

The immediate aftermath proceeded something like this. Both Mari and Kaede burst out laughing, Hachiman turned his face away, Kei had his mouth open trying to comprehend what the raven-haired teen said while Mr. Supercomputer kept on smile. Though I felt like he was trying hard not to laugh himself.

"Pengin? Isn't he more like a polar bear?" Kaede said in between her laughter."

"No, a polar bears can kill you. He is definitely a baby seal." Mari held her stomach because it was too much for her to bear.

I think I have unleashed something horrible upon Pengin. I sent my final prayer to him fearing for his safety.

"Shouldn't we head out now? I wanna buy some materials for my project." Kaede asked around the group.

"Alright, I need some new equipment anyways." Mari nodded.

"I will be here then and continue going through my notes. Which you disturbed earlier by dragging me around."

"Excuses." Kaede pointed at Kei. "You just want to spend time with Himeko don't you."

Kei flinched for a second but regained his composure. "I do not." Oh, then why are you sweating under pressure? "I just want to study and besides, what if someone tries to bother Himeko at work like last time." He really wants to spend time with her. I bet Himeko-san would be happy to hear that. Not that Kei will admit it to her though.

"If you say so." Mari laughed and stood up from her seat. "Himeko, the bill please." After yelling from across from the restaurant Mari sat back down. "So, what's the plan afterwards." She asked the group.

"Yumiko and I will just go home afterwards. My grandparents are visiting so can't afford to stay out for too long." Hachiman explained.

"Your grandparents huh."

"Yeah."

Even though the words said were a few, I feel like a long conversation took place between Hachiman and Mari. Again, my chest ached painfully. And just like last time, Mari was the cause of it.

It was not like I hated Mari. Honestly, I think she is a wonderful person. Kind and caring as well as headstrong. She taunts and teases everyone and laughs along with them. I can feel her genuine feelings towards every single one of her friends.

I just felt jealous of her. I am not jealous because of romantic reasons. I don't think they hold any romance between them. I am jealous because she understands Hachiman more than I do. I mean I only entered Hachiman's life only yesterday and still have a lot to learn about him. But it is frustrating, nevertheless.

Both have a deep bond, and it hurts to see them like this. I am his wife, aren't I? Then why do I feel like I am more distant to my husband than Mari-san.

"Oh, your grandparents are over. That's super cool." Kaede happily sang. "Whenever my grandmother comes over, she tries to fatten me up." She grins, probably remembering the moment.

Kei sighs, "That's only you Kaede." Kei face darkened. My guess was his relationship with his grandparents were like that of Hachiman. Masashi did say Kei was engaged and that he was from an influential family. He was probably being forced to marry while he likes Himeko. Must be tough for him.

"Here is the bill." Himeko-san ran over and gave the bill to Mari.

Mari then places the bill at the centre of the table for everyone to see. In a split second everyone had their wallets and purses out and were taking out the money. Ah, I forgot to bring my purse with me. How clumsy of me, now I feel bad for making everyone pay for me.

"Yumiko-chan you don't have to panic too much. Today's treat is on us." Mari tried to dispel my worries. Were my thoughts that obvious or was she just a mind reader? But even if she says that, I still feel bad about it.

But in my old group, the boys would usually pay for us but that was arranged beforehand. Here, even the girls are pitching in. Granted Kaede and Masashi paid little compared to the others since they only ordered drinks later.

"By the way." Kaede turned towards Hachiman with a scheming grin that makes Hachiman sweat. Why is he sweating so much, he looks look he wants to run away? What made him so scared in the first place I wonder. "Speaking of treats. Should we all get a treat from our dear Hachiman here? He got married after all."

"Mari, you just had to mention the word treat didn't you." Hachiman glared daggers at Mari who just sat there unaffected by my husband's stares. This woman must have nerves of steel to withstand that kind of attack that would probably make normal people run away. Then again, Mari really does not come under the term normal does she.

I pretty much see now why Hachiman said that his friends were a little unique. Well, they really are special in their own way. Weird but special.

"Oh yeah, with all the excitement, I completely forgot about the treat." Mari raised her hand next to Kaede. "Good going Kaede."

Kaede gave her friend a high five and then both proceeded to stare down Hachiman like he was some delicious turkey.

"Now, now you two stop bullying Hachiman so much." Himeko-san to the rescue. I knew I could count on you. "You guys forgot he still has to give us a treat of his birthday." Himeko, I think instead of helping, you made it even worse. I think Hachiman just feinted, quick someone call the ambulance.

"Oh, she is right." Mari also high fived Himeko who stood there while smiling like an angel. Is she perhaps secretly evil? Was I deceived by our heavenly looks? She later excused herself while hamming happily.

"Please spare me." Hachiman cried out weakly. Come on Hachiman do not be so overdramatic. It is just a treat, it's not like they will just bankrupt you in a blink of an eye. Though, judging by how much I witnessed my husband, Mari and Kei eat. All of them might as well bankrupt him into the void. Top it all off, it's not one but two treats. That's like a death sentence.

Did Himeko-san plan this? It's scary if she did.

At least Kei was Hachiman's only ally. But all he could do was pat the raven-haired boy on the black while shaking his head. I wonder the reason he is staying quiet is because he doesn't want to get wrapped into the treat thing along with my husband.

"Surrender Hachiman and maybe we will show you mercy." Mari gleefully reached out and started to pinch his cheeks.

"Fine, I get it." He removed Mari's hand from his cheeks, "But after my trip to Hokkaido this Friday."

"Hokkaido?" Kei looked over to Hachiman in confusion.

"That's your father's hometown, isn't it? Why are you going there?" Mari's manner and tone again changed drastically. Again, I could feel like they were secretly communicating with each other just be looking into each other eyes. The subtle messages only they could understand.

"For no particular reason. Yumiko just wanted to go, and I thought it would be a good way of spend time with her." Hachiman casually explained.

"So, like a Honeymoon." Kaede sang out with sparkling eyes. But her joy was short lived as a hand axed her head in a flawless motion. Kaede now with tears in her eyes rubbed her head. "Hachiman-chan, your wife is abusing me."

Unhand me Mari, I need to restore this woman's bran cell. Or at least, reset them. How could she even say something like that? Does she gets off saying such embarrassing stuff. I almost died you know. And you Hachiman, you made it sound like it was my plan. Now everyone will think I am some kind of pervert.

It's not like I wanted to go with that intention in mind. I mean, we are going there alone, and there will be no one to disturb the two of us. Stop, stop. Don't you even go down the route. Kaede you are the one who corrupted my mind with this foolish idea. I will purge you and then remove myself from this word. That's the only way to rid myself of this embarrassment.

Now Mari, how long do you intend to stop me, just how much strength does this gorilla woman even have. I am using all my strength but she won't even move an inch. Now she is laughing and calling me cute again. She is just playing around with me, this gorilla woman.

"Hachiman, you managed to marry a woman even scarier than yourself." Masashi the group's smiling bystander spoke letting out a light chuckle. Huh, you want a piece of this too. I will send you to an early grave along with your girlfriend. Compared to the rest of the guys you are only skin and bones, I can easily take you on.

Mari laughed while effortlessly suppressing me. "I always wanted a little sister to fight with me. Yes, keep pushing like that. Good job." What the hell, the way she said it was totally gross. I am not interested in your weird fetish so please keep it to yourself. The fact that she isn't trying to push back is making me angrier. Just how big is the difference between us.

Sadly, our one-sided tug of war came to an abrupt halt when a sharp pain radiated across my ear. My gaze shifted side ways to see Himeko-san holding onto both mine and Mari's ear. Her cheeks bubbled up in a pout that I could only say was cute. I know she was angry but her attempts only resulted in her being cute.

"Mari you are causing trouble. I told you not to bother Yumiko-chan." Himeko scolded while stretching Mari's ear as well as mine. Why are you punishing me? I am the victim here you know. There were the ones who provoked me in the first place. The real culprit is literally sitting there behind us having a merry good time.

"And Yumiko-chan, violence is no good alright." I understand, I understand. So can you please stop pulling my ear. It seriously hurts you know. Why am I getting scolded like a little kid? Just so you know everyone here is a little kid in spite of being college students.

Wait a min, now Himeko-san thinks I am just as childish as them. Oh no, what should I do now. I feel like crying. Half from the pain of getting my ear reformed while the other half by ruining my image in front of the only sane person in the group.

Himeko-san finally released Mari and me. Both of us consoling our crying ears.

"Himeko why did you interrupt my special bonding moment with Yumiko." Mari bit back glaring at Himeko. Is she going to turn on Himeko-san now?

"Huh?" Himeko-san unfazed by the glare simply expanded her hand towards the taller girl and grabbed her ear again. "You want to say that again? Who is the one interrupted here? Is it too much to ask from you to behave yourself for once? You want to get me fired?"

"I am sorry, I won't do it again. I promise." Mari tearfully pleaded.

"You said that the last time. Maybe losing your ear will teach you a lesson." Just what was I seeing? Himeko-san was scary. Super scary. She was able to put Mari down just like that.

One thing I don't understand is why isn't Mari pushing Himeko-san away? I mean she is clearly stronger and should easily be able to repel Himeko-san. I mean she was pretty much a wild beast when dealing with Hachiman and Kei. But now she is just standing there at the mercy of the crimson haired girl. Why is that?

Maybe, she is just playing around. Even if she forced Himeko-san away, there was a chance the latter could get hurt so Mari is just standing there and taking the punishment. I look around the group only to find Kaede watching the spectate with glittering eyes fully engrossed in the scene as if it was comedy.

My eyes shifted over to Masashi-san, he was still wearing that smile on his face, which I assume was fake and it made me unpleasant. It was just a feeling but what was he hiding underneath that face. Probably something I was better off not knowing.

Looking over to the last two remaining members of the group. Both of them shook their heads in disappointment and sighed. I could barely hold back my giggle. It was like seeing two twins mimicking each other. What made it funnier was the fact both Kei and Hachiman had similar frowns. Ok this is too much. Hachi, is Kei perhaps your long last brother or something?

"Himeko is mean." Mari complained like a little kid while caressing her poor ear.

"It's your fault for not behaving." Himeko pouted with folded arms.

"Watching you guys is always great fun." Masashi-san stood up. "I would love to hang around more but sadly we are short on time."

"Oh right. You have to tutor those kids don't you. Sorry I totally forgot." Kaede also got and grabbed her purse.

"Guess we should leave too." Hachiman stood up while Kei had to make room for him to cross over. Oh right, Kei was staying. I feel kind of jealous of him. He gets to spend more time with Himeko.

"Kei, since you are staying behind. Make sure to safely get Himeko home." Mari glared over to Kei, her earlier childish behaviour gone.

"You don't have to tell me." Kei sneered.

"Geez, I am not a little kid you know. I can get back on my own." Himeko pouted. "Kei you don't have to wait for my sake."

"I am not. I am just going through my notes, that's all." That's a roundabout way of saying he just wants to spend time with Himeko-san. Both of them walking back home after work sounds so romantic. Is Himeko-san too dense to realize that? Or is she too embarrassed? Either way it sounds like a good thing.

"Let's get going then. Come Yumiko-chan." Mari grabbed my arm and started to drag me along with her. This woman, where are you taking me. Don't tell me she is taking me to her house? Wait a minute, I didn't consent to this. Hachiman save me, I am getting kidnapped. Oh wait, didn't I say to do whatever she wants since I was upset with Hachiman. Did I just sign my own death warrant?

"See you later then Kei and Himeko." Mari and the rest waved the two goodbye. It good and all that you guys are having a good time but aren't you forgetting something? The fact that I am getting dragged around against my will. Once again, my husband was completely useless and didn't even bother to look my way.

"Bye guys. You too Yumiko-chan. It was fun meeting you. Let's hang out again sometime." Himeko cheerfully waved at us with her angelic smile. Just seeing her like this warms my heart. By the way Himeko-san, as you can see, I am getting kidnapped her so can you please save me.

My pleas for help fell on deaf ears and everyone proceeded like nothing had happened. We were following Kaede and Masashi traversing through the mall.

Mari was completely glued to me, having captured my arm. Aren't you too close? I am not some plushie you have to rub your cheeks against. There is something called personal space you know. Oh, what's that, personal space isn't added to your gorilla dictionary. Then how about I drill it inside you. Grrrr.

"Hehe, Yumiko-chan you are acting like a wild cat?" Whose fault do you think it is?

I briefly turned my head to look at Hachiman walking behind us. I expected him to be frowning like usual but to my surprise his lips were curved upwards in a smile. Just as our eyes met, I quickly turned around.

Geez, why do you look so happy? Do you really like seeing Mari clinging onto me that much. My cheeks puffed up in a pout. Guess I just have to go with the flow and by flow, I mean getting dragged around by Mari. Seriously, Is she like this with everyone or just her friends?

While I knew she has a violent side to her but she only directed that to Kei or Hachiman. A skinny guy like Masashi was left untouched. Maybe she does it because Hachiman and Kei can tank whatever she does. Even if they fought, I didn't feel any ill intent. Even though their actions were loud and riskless.

From what I can tell, the three of them are alot closer than the rest.

Whenever Himeko-san was around, Mari acted childish around her. Getting scolded by her like a little kid in spite of being a grown woman. As for Kaede, she was even more easy going than Mari. If it wasn't for Mari protecting her then I would have clubbed that woman multiple times.

"We are here." Kaede announced to the rest of us and just like that I was pulled inside a tailor's shop. "Uncle Yamada-san." She waved her arm wildly to the man standing at the counter. The other customers in the shop looked over briefly because of Kaede's loud voice but went back to minding their own business.

The employees on the other hand showed clear signs of annoyance but they also had to get back to work.

"Oh Kaede-san, good to see you again and you brought your friends." The old man greeted with a smile but his attention was more on Kaede than us. "Looking for new materials I assume."

"Yep."

The old man nodded. "Then feel free to choose whatever you want."

"Thanks Uncle." Giving the owner a smile, Kaede started roaming around the store humming sweetly with glittering eyes. She looks like a kid in a candy store.

For about fifteen minutes, Kaede danced from one corner of the store to the other while checking the quality of the materials and their prices. It was hard to believe such an easy-going girl was able to make her own cloths. Well one look at her and I guess she does have a good fashion sense, probably even better than me.

I clenched my fist. First it was Himeko-san who outclassed me in terms of looks. She didn't even wear makeup and still looks a complete beauty. It's completely unfair. Now Kaede trumps me in terms of cloths and accessories. I mean she looks so cute in those cloths. How do you expect me to compete with that?

"What's wrong Yumiko-chan, why the pout?" Mari who was still glued to my arm asked out of concern. Honestly, my only saving grace was the fact that Mari was a gorilla. But to think I won against her only because she is a gorilla still hurts.

Now I feel like crying.

"Nothing. I was just wondering if the owner is Kaede's uncle." I mean she is literally ransacking through the store. Even the silent glares of the employee didn't stop her. I kind of feel sorry for them. Wait, is this why Mari is glued to me. So that I don't accidentally murder, I mean stop to Kaede.

"No, Kaede just comes here alot so the owner is similar with her." Mari explained.

So that's how it is. But still, it was amazing that the owner gave her a free pass to Kaede.

"And done." Kaede was finally done with the shopping and now we were standing at the main counter for the bill. "Uncle Yamada, one Kaede size discount please." The old man could only laugh at her cute antics and what the hell was a Kaede sized discount anyways? Please Yamada-san make sure to increase the price by two hundred percent.

"One Kaede sized discount coming right up. Here you go." No, you fell for her trap. Don't you know this is the oldest trick in the subduing book. The bald man handed Kaede the bill and the latter returned a brilliant smile that will melt anyone's heart and for man in his sixties it was a dangerous weapon.

"Here you go Uncle."

After counting the money, the owner returned the change. "Kaede-chan, would you and your friends like some tea?"

"No Uncle, I want to go straight home and get to work. I have a two weeks deadline you know."

"It was originally a month time period but you wasted it by lazing around and watching dramas." Masashi roasted his girlfriend with no remorse.

"Shhh, don't tell them that." Kaede silenced her boyfriend by sealing his mouth with her hands. "Now everyone will think I am lazy." So, I guess she is one of those people who study at the last second in a panic. I can totally relate. I know it's a bad habit but I should probably fix it.

"Uncle, I will drink tea next time. Bye, bye then." Kaede waved the old man goodbye who looked a little disappointed. Meanwhile the employees were celebrating their freedom from the hell storm that invaded their shop.

"Well, that was fun, I wish I had more time to hang around with you guys." Now it was Kaede's happy to go attitude turned into depression.

"It's because you slacked off Kaede." Mari reminded her making the latter fall into despair even more. Though Mari talked to her in a calm manner. I guess she really does act differently when talking to each individual.

"It's not my fault. There were so many shows I wanted to catch on you." Kaede cried out.

"I wish you showed this much euthanasic in your studies. You instantly fall asleep when I am trying to teach you." Masashi sighed. Even though he appears skinny, it didn't look like he was having a hard time carrying all the stuff Kaede bought.

"Can you blame me. Your lessons make me sleepy. Besides, I can sleep peacefully when you are around." Wow, how can she even say something that embarrassing. She even said it without blinking. Is she immune by any chance? I would have blown up if I was the one who said it out loud.

The boyfriend also unaffected by Kaede's words, reached his hand out to pat her head. The brown hair girl enjoying the treatment, giggled in response.

"You two." Mari dark voice leaked out causing me to step back in fear. "I told you not to flirt in public didn't I." She cracked her knuckles.

Ah, was she really ready to attack Kaede and Masashi? Since this is Mari, we are talking about, that's a high possibility. Hachiman I am relying on you to stop her while I go stand behind that pillar. You know what they say, never get in the way of a rampaging gorilla.

"Mari-chan, it's not our fault you can't get a boyfriend. Look, even Hachiman got myself a cute wife." Kaede, do you have a death wish? I know I tried to strangle you since we met but even, I am afraid for your safety. Do you really want to get smashed by the king of gorillas?

I turned towards Mari fully expecting her to be in berserker mode, but I was left in shock to find tears dripping down her face. Was she seriously crying?

"Ah, sorry Mari. I didn't mean to make you cry. There, there." Kaede hugged the sobbing Mari trying to calm her down.

"I am going to die alone." Mari cried out. Kaede who had caused the outburst yet again patted Mari on the back.

"That's not true, I am sure you will find a wonderful boyfriend who will not run away after you german suplex him." Kaede, I don't think you are help, in fact you are making it worse. Look, Mari is crying louder now. And what's this about german suplex? Don't tell me, did Mari do that? Ah, I am too embarrassed to even think about it.

Speaking of embarrassment, people were giving us weird look when they walked passed by us. Just to be on the save side, I stepped back from Mari and Kaede, so people don't think I am part of their weird group. I do have an image to maintain after all.

"Is it always like this?" I asked my husband who had perfectly blended with the crowd despite his large stature. Since he was already used to the group's random ups and down, he had already distanced himself from them since the outburst begin.

"Yes. They are always like this." He breathed out a tired sigh.

"One more thing. What would have happened if you had said the same thing instead of Kaede?" I asked him to test out my theory.

Hachiman arched his eyebrows. "Are you that eager to see me hospitalized?" Translation, Mari would have probably broken his legs.

Guess I was right about Mari treating each member differently. She could have lightly poked at Kaede, but she didn't. Instead, she just reverted to a kid and cried her heart out. Quiet literally. The floor is all wet you know, why are you increasing the workload of the poor janitor. What has he done to you?

"Geez, you can be such a cry baby sometimes, I am sorry alright. I won't do it again." Maybe you shouldn't have done it in the first place. As soon she Mari mood stabilized, her face was assaulted by Kaede's handkerchiefs. Wait, aren't you a little forceful Kaede? Are you trying to merge your handkerchief with Mari's face?

"There, all better now." Kaede removed her hand away from Mari's face. "I would love to tease, I mean chat more, but Masashi has to go tutor some brats while I have to start with my project. Don't want to fail in the only thing I am good at right. Hachiman, can I count on you to keep Mari out of trouble?" If you ask me, you are the biggest troublemaker of the group.

"She will probably drag me down with her." Hachiman and I now standing in front of them answered.

Kaede could only respond with a weak laugh. "That's true." Kaede's light brown eyes then shifted towards me. Ah, what do you want? Are you looking for a fight? Fine then bring it on.

"It was nice meeting you Yumiko-chan." She opened her arms and managed to successfully enclose me in a hug. No fair, you took me off guard. I wasn't expecting a hug, they are against the rules you know. Release me you witch, you smell too damn nice. What shampoo do you even use? Need to ask her to try it later.

"I am glad Hachiman got to marry a wonderful wife. It really was fun hanging out today." Kaede pulled away, a beaming smile too much to handle even more me. I was forced to look away out of embarrassment. This must be one of her clever tricks. Yes, that's it. She must be scheming something behind that big grin.

"It was fun." I whispered. Fine I admit it was fun, are you happy now. Meeting you guys had its ups and down but I didn't dislike it. Frankly, just this one meeting was better than all the times I spent with my highschool group. When I think about it, it hurts my chest. There was no fake or artificial conversation and everyone spoke their minds.

"Hmmm, what was it." Kaede started poking my cheeks, a sneaky smirk across her face. "Can you repeat that Yu-mi-ko-chan. I think I misheard you, did you say you had fun?"

You heard what I said so why are you making me repeat it. It was already hard the first time. Do you really love torturing people that much? And can you stop drilling a hole in my cheeks, they are not made of jelly you know.

I should have known better to show my weakness to this witch. And stop grinning like this, it's seriously creepy you know and making me embarrassed. No matter how much to tease me, I definitely won't say it the second time.

"By the way Yumiko-chan." Kaede finally spared my cheeks from getting dug in. "Can you give me your contact number?"

"Huh? Oh, I don't mind." Come to think of it, I missed the chance to ask for Himeko-san's number. Now I feel depressed. Before I could take out my phone from my skirt pocket Mari jumped behind me.

"I want it too." Great, she was back in baby mode again. Can you not stick so close to me? You are seriously heavy you know. Fine, I will give you my number too so stop wincing. Geez, act your age will you. You are older than me you know.

After giving my number to both of them, Mari began hugging her phone while Kaede had a devilish grin. Oh, second thought, Kaede can you give me your phone so I can delete my number. Who knows what this witch is planning on doing with it? Just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine.

"It's a shame really. I wish we met before, I would have loved to make you my model."

"Model?" I asked confused.

"Model for the dress I am going to make. I originally picked Himeko for it but I would also would have liked it if Yumiko-chan also tried it." So that's what it was about, I am sorry but even if you insisted I would have refused the offer. Why, because compared to a natural beauty like Himeko-san, I am comparable to a potato. So, such a dress would be a complete waste on me.

"Maybe after I am done with my project, I will make a dress just for you."

"Ah, you don't have to do that." I said a little flustered.

"No, I definitely will. And I won't take no for an answer. Just think of it as a gift." She won't back down, will she?

"Alright, but you don't have to force yourself to make it for my sake." Though, I would prefer if you didn't make it at all. Something like that would be too much.

Kaede looks softened up as her lips curved up in a gentle smile. "Look forward to it alright." She then clenched her fist and threw a punch upwards. "Now I am more motivated into finish that project. The faster I get it done, the faster I can work on Yumiko-chan's dress. Let's go Masashi."

Kaede grabbed her boyfriend who was still holding all the bags and started to drag him along. "Bye Yumiko-chan, Mari and Hachiman. Take care." Kaede waved us goodbye before disappearing into the crowd.

Finally, the witch was gone and I could finally take a breather. Still, hanging around with her wasn't that bad. It was quite enjoyable. When was the last time I had this much fun when hanging out with people? I didn't even need to bring out my phone because of boredom. That's a first.

"Come on Yumiko-chan, let's go to our next target." Since the witch had left, now I only had to deal with this oversized baby gorilla who loves to drag people against their will.

Well, it's not like I can do anything about it. So, accepting my fate, I forfeited my body over to Mari who was all too happy to clung to me. Where is she taking me anyways? Probably to her house in the jungle. I bet the place is outlined by bananas.

"We are here." Mari proclaimed loudly. Huh, isn't this just a regular sports shop. I guess she did say she has to buy some new equipment back at the restaurant. Well, I guess the reason she is so brutishly strong is because she does so kind of sport. Probably some kind of combat sport since she was so eager to fight Hachiman and Kei.

"Now where were those mitts. I swear they were here the last time I came here." It would be better for you if asked the shop assistant for help. "Ah, found them." I guess she doesn't need any help after all. What are those anyways.

She was holding a pair of round red pads with a glove attached to the back. Isn't that what they use for boxing training I saw on TV.

"Why are you buying that? Don't you already have a pair." Hachiman questioned.

"Yeah, but they are old and worn out. I was thinking of starting Yoshiteru on mitt practice by next week. Since I am in the mall, I thought might as well buy them now." Mari shoved her hands into the gloves and held it up in front of Hachiman. "What do you say, wanna test them out?"

Hachiman arched an eyebrow. "I wouldn't mind but we are inside a store and I don't have gloves on me."

"Just for a bit." Mari turned to face the middle-aged guy in the counter. He was looking at us with eyes half closed. "Manager, do you mind if we do it here."

The guy let out a yawn focusing himself on Mari. "You break it, you buy it." Is that seriously all you have to say? You are basically telling him to do whatever they want.

"You heard the man." Mari steadied her stance and positioned the mitt in front of Hachiman. Her eyes were focused, it was like she had zeroed on Hachiman, watching his every move.

Hachiman let out a sigh and watched his surrounding to see if there was enough space, "guess there is no helping it. You are not gonna give up unless you do it. Fine then but only for a minute then." Just as he was finished saying that, without warning Hachiman lunged in and planted a fast right straight into one of the mitts.

Mari's hand was knocked back slightly from the force, but she quickly fixed her posture just in time for Hachiman to land another punch in. Honestly, what followed the first two strikes had me left standing there with my jaw open.

Hachiman let loose a barrage of punches each flawlessly aimed at the repositioning mitts. Some of his strikers were too fast to even follow and judging by the sound the mitts were making after taking all the punishment, Hachiman sure wasn't going easy on them.

It makes me think whether Hachiman was going easy on Hayama yesterday when he was about to punch the blonde. Thinking back on it now, I don't think he planned on hitting Hayama in the first place. Maybe just to scare him. I don't know, it's just a feeling. I think if Hachiman really wanted to hit him, he would have even if both Yukino and I protested.

Hachiman and Mari's little dance came to a complete halt when the former had frozen his fist in mid-air right next time Mari's temple. "You have gotten slow Mari." Hachiman smirked.

"Ah, you are a hundred years too early to be showing off in front of me Hachi." Coincidently, Mari had also positioned the mitt directly below Hachiman's throat.

Are they seriously trying to kill each other? My heart completely stopped you know. Pleas refrain from doing this kind of thing again.

"I guess that's it for the test run. It's a shame it only lasted for a minute." Mari backed off and took the mitts off her hands. "I kind of wanted to see how much you have improved since you have been training on your own for a while. It surprised me that you beat Kei recently. How did you even win?"

"Ground fighting." Hachiman told her with a grin.

"No way. Really? Ah, now I am more upset because I couldn't see it. Kei is monster when it comes to ground fighting. Even I never got close to beating him." Mari, are you drooling? This chick, she really loves talking about fighting doesn't she. What's grounding fighting anyways. I mean we are standing on the ground and literally fight. It's not like we can fight in the air.

"Well, I have been practicing with Kei every week, so I learned a lot from him. Honestly, I barely won."

"But a win is a win. Good job Hachi." She reached her hand out and patted his raven-coloured hair while Hachiman just stood there without complain.

Everyone called them siblings huh. Well, they are not real brother and sister but they sure acted like one. Just look at Hachiman acting all embarrassed because of the praises from Mari. I wish I could be close to my husband like that.

"Alright, just have to buy a few more stuff. Let's go." Mari dashed around the shop looking for the next item on the list. I thought it was going to a similar item as the boxing mitts but surprisingly she picked out a jump rope. I am guessing it was also for the overgrown Pengin.

"Yumiko-chan, have you played any sport before. You don't look like it, but you are decently strong." Hearing her say that doesn't make me happy at all considering I can't even push her back even an inch. It's like she is taunting me.

"Just some amateur tennis back in middle school. But that's about it." I only picked it up in the first place because I had nothing better to do and my father also played tennis a bit. It was a nice distraction, and I could have continued it in high school, but I was not committed enough. It was easier to give it up rather than spending hours upon hours on practice. And let me tell you, it was hellish practice.

Don't get it wrong, I don't hate the sport. I actually have a fondness for it. I even follow the news on it from time to time. But if you ask me to play competitively, well I just don't want to murder the sport I love.

"Hmmm tennis huh. I have never played it before. What do you say, you wanna have a match against a newbie like me?" She showed me a wild grin, and somehow my body shivered. It was as if it knew what was behind that smile.

"Ah, sure. I guess. I don't mind." Are you stupid Yumiko? Don't you know this woman is dangerous. Can't you tell she is challenging you. She may call herself a newbie but when the time comes, she will destroy me. Losing to Yukino was bad enough now I have to face this Gorilla, no way.

Maybe I will just fake an injury and let Hachiman play in my stand instead. Yep, sounds like a good plan doesn't it. I am a genius.

"Glad you agreed to it. Since we are meeting next week anyways, there is plenty of time to prepare myself. Just a fair warning. I am pretty competitive." No kidding Sherlock. "Let me buy a tennis racket too then."

Guess I will buy it too, I guess. I don't even remember where my old racket went off too. Well doesn't really matter since I am not gonna face that woman in a match. I am buying it so Hachiman can take my place after I use my first-class acting skills.

"Hachi, you buy it too." Mari ordered my husband.

"I am not really interested in tennis. It's a rich's man sport." Did he just insult every tennis player ever? My cheeks puffed up and I turned away. I guess he is only interested in sports where you beat people to death.

"I can understand. But since Yumiko-chan plays it too, it wouldn't hurt if you guys played together for fun." After what she said I have developed a new fond respect for Mari. Nice assist.

"You have a point." And just like that, Hachiman also ended up buying a tennis racket for himself. I don't mind playing against Hachiman for fun, it might actually be nice. I am actually looking forward to it.

A smile formed on my lips on its own as my arms hugged the racket. When I looked at Hachiman and Mari, both of them were looking at me strangely. Hachiman even turned his face away. Was there something on my face? I checked but I found nothing abnormal fortunately.

"Yumiko-chan is cute. Hachi, can I take her home."

"For the last time, no." He growled, then his gaze shifted over to me briefly before turning away, his cheeks dyed red. What was wrong with him, does he have a fever?

"Come on let's go." Hachiman extended his hand offering to take the racket from me. It's fine, let me carry at least this much. You are already holding alot of other things. Sadly, in the end he still took the racket away.

Since Mari was done buying her equipment, we made our way to the counter. Hachiman paid for both mine and his racket plus the ball. Now I am feeling terrible for making him buy all those cloths. I guess I just have to control myself next time. It's not like I can go crying to my dad and asking him for more money to buy cloths and stuff.

The manager stared at Hachiman with curious eyes. "Those moves were really impressive kid. You pro?" What does he mean pro? Was he talking about when Hachi was punching the pads?

"No, just for fun."

The manager raised an eyebrow. "I don't think someone who moves like that is doing it for fun." His gaze shifted over to Mari." Well, whatever, here is your change." The guy handed the change back to Hachiman and Mari. Well, I don't know about being pro or not but looked really amazing. As long as he doesn't hurt anyone.

"Are you guys gonna go straight home from here?" Mari asked once we were out of the shops store.

"No, not yet. There are still some small things we need to buy before heading back," Hachiman narrowed his eyes down on me. Hi, what are you looking at me for? It's not my fault meeting your friends took up most of the time. My little shopping spree has nothing to do with it.

"Well, I guess I will take my leave then. Don't want to third wheel on you guys than I already have." She showed Hachiman a big grin and then turned towards me. "Yumiko-chan." Once again, I found my body engulfed around her arms. Is there some kind of special event going on? Like whoever hugs me the most wins first prize.

Well, I am used to it by now.

"It was so nice meeting you today. I hope I wasn't overly annoying." You weren't, not that I would be admit it to her. Though, I did hug her back after which she squeezed me even hard. I change my mind, let go of me. Can't breathe.

When she released me from her death grip, I was finally able to breathe again. "Yumiko-chan," Mari's face transformed in a big grin. "Take care of Hachi alright. I know his face is scary looking but he is a big old softy on the inside." You don't have to tell me that. I already resolved myself to try my best.

"I will. I whispered to which Mari smile.

She patted my head while giggling. "Good girl, I know I can count on you." Can you stop patting my head, I am not a little kid you know. "Hachi, a word." Mari turned towards my husband as the latter raised am eye. "This won't take too long Yumiko-chan."

Both Mari and Hachiman walked off a little further away near the wall where they could talk in private. I wonder what she wanted to talk about with Hachiman. She even made a troubled face.

From what I could tell from a distance, Mari looked like she was scolding Hachiman after which the raven-haired teen slammed his fist against the wall. I was more worried than curious at this point. What happened between them for both of them to react like that.

Mari then placed her hands on my husband's shoulder as her expressions became softer. Hachiman stood with his head down listening to Mari without a word.

In the end Hachiman nodded his head as he began his walk back to me. Mari on the other hand looked on Hachi's retreating back with sadness before her eyes shifted over to me. She showed me a forceful smile, waving her hand towards me.

After I waved back to return the gesture, she took her leave.

"Sorry for the wait." Hachi's deep voice made his presence known.

I hugged my arm as I looked over to him. "What happened?" I know it was a private conversation but I couldn't help but ask.

Hachi opened his mouth to speak but closed it immediately. After a short pause, he finally spoke. "It was nothing special. She was just lecturing me about taking care of you and if I made you sad then I will end up in the hospital. That's all." She gave me a lazy smile.

"You know, if you don't want to tell me, that's fine. But please don't lie about it." If it was as simple as that then Mari would have said it straight to Hachiman in front of me. She didn't have to take him away for that. Plus, I don't think Hachiman would have been agitated because Mari was lecturing him.

But what gave it away the most was Hachiman's face when I told him off. The face of guilt. "I am sorry." He hung is face low, riddled with disappointment.

I took a heavy breath and grabbed his arm. I would have held his hand if it wasn't for all those bags he was holding. "I know there are things you are not ready to tell me and that's fine. But let us agree not to lie over it. Promise?"

"Yeah, I promise. Sorry again." He took a deep breath to calm himself. He still looked troubled, I don't whether because of what Mari said or what I told him.

"Come on, let's go. Where do you want to go next?" I pulled on his arm trying to lead him away from depressing thoughts.

We walked inside a mart while trying to think of the different items to buy. Just the basic stuff for now like tooth brush and paste, hair brush for both myself and Hachiman. About three four towels since I didn't want to burden Komachi. I also picked out two different shampoo and conditioners.

After buying a few more mundane things we went to the kitchen section. "We can also buy an apron for you. The pink one you were wearing belonged to Komachi. So, it's better to have your own."

"Then how about you pick one for me." I asked shyly, my cheeks burning up.

Hachiman also flustered checked through each apron in stock. "How about this?" He held up a yellow one with thin white lines running down vertically. The pouch even had a cute picture of a sunflower on it.

"I think this will suit you." Hachiman had his red face turned away. You know, I would have offered to try it on and then watch what kind of reaction he displays but sadly I am even more embarrassed than him. I didn't even dare to look at him in the eye. All I could do was bury my face into the apron.

I was glad that no one was present to see me in this state. Hachiman's friends would have teased me to death.

After that little episode, we pretended it never happened and continued on our way. Hachiman again tried to take the bags away from me but after glaring at him for a straight minute, he finally backed down. Geez, you don't have to carry everything you know.

"I think it's better to take the cab back home. We have too much stuff to carry on a train or bus." I suggested to Hachi who agreed. We wouldn't have to take the cab back home again if I didn't lose control over myself when shopping for clothes. Next time I won't make the same mistake twice and definitely limit myself to one or two clothing.

I am a little upset with Hachi too. If I am doing something stupid then he should have stopped me. Instead, he followed me silently and let me do whatever I wanted. You are going to spoil me like that you know. You are not made of money.

I have decided, from now on I will only buy something if it's absolutely necessary.

"So, what do you think of them? My friends."

"Your friends huh? Let's see." I allowed my body to fall on his shoulders while my mind dived deep into thought. "My impression of them. Well, it goes like this. Himeko-san is beautiful like a princess, Kaede is a scheming witch while Mari is a Gorilla."

"..." No comment huh? "I am surprised you can say that with a straight face. Mari and Kaede will cry if they heard that."

Well, you are the one who asked for my honest opinion. "Anyways, Masashi-san is always smiling but somehow he gives me the creeps. As for Kei, he looks like a nice guy. I feel sorry for him a little." Because he gets dragged around by Mari and his whole affair regarding Himeko-san and his family.

"All in all, you have interesting friends. I really had fun hanging around with them even when things became crazy. Frankly, I am kind of relieved they are all nice people. They really care for you."

Hachiman took a long breath. "Well, that's good you like them. Mari especially was looking forward to meeting you. I was a little anxious on how you will cope with them. I was glad that they took a liking to you." He took another deep breath. "By the way, I know you said Himeko looks good and all but you don't have to freeze up everytime she talks to you."

"Can you blame me? I mean she is so beautiful. I am a potato standing next to her." A very ugly potato at that.

"Potato?" Hachiman initially stunned by my words started to laugh soon after.

"Hi, don't laugh. It's not funny you know." My cheeks puffed up angrily.

"Ah sorry, I couldn't help myself. A potato." He laughed again. At least he was in a better mood now. But that didn't stop me from glaring daggers into him. "Ok, sorry I will stop." Good, he should know better to make me mad. "Besides, you are also beautiful yourself." He whispered.

"What?" I asked flustered, my mouth open and I could feel my face changing colours.

"By the way, what do you think about Mari?" He changed the subject quickly which I was thankful of. Just the distraction the doctor ordered.

I could tell he was nervous. I guess this was really important for him. "Even though I just met her today, I could see the bond the both of you share. She can be a bit aggressive but not in a bad way. She treats everyone differently but I feel like she is the closet to you out of everyone else. She really cares about you."

Hachiman nods, "she is honestly annoying. Always treating me like a little brother." That's just a roundabout way of saying you don't dislike it when she treats you like that. I saw it myself how embarrassing you got when she was praising you. The different expressions I saw when you were interacting with her.

"I owe alot to her." He said it in a quiet voice. "She saved me after all."

"Saved you?" What do you by that? What happened? Did you get into another accident? Suddenly panic started to wash over me. Were you going to kill yourself?

"Hi, don't worry. Nothing serious happened." He squeezed my hand trying to dispel the raising dread. "Sorry I made you worry. That was a poor choice of words." He took a deep breath. "I mean she saved me from myself when I was alone. She stuck to me like a parasite at first. Set me straight and trained me. Before I knew it, I felt alive again."

"You really look up to her." I added after listening to him, my head once again resting on his shoulder, my hand on his shirt, holding it for dear life. It made me happy that he was able to share all of this with me. I also wish I could be like Mari who support Hachiman in his time of need. I will also do my best by following her explain.

"Yeah." He confirmed softly.

"So, since both of you consider yourselves brother and sister. Does that mean she was checking out her new sister-in-law? Did I pass the test Mr. Husband?" I decided to tease him.

"Well considering she was practically glued to you. I say you passed." He let out a chuckle and I also couldn't help myself from laughing alongside him.

On the road home Hachiman told me about the all the different stories surrounding him and the group. Some of them made me laugh while others made me horrified, even calling him and his friends crazy. Geez, how can all of them be so immature even though they are university students.

He even told me a bit about their relationships with each other. Apparently, Mari, Himeko and Kaede studied together since middle school while Kei and Masashi were childhood friends. Hachiman laughed as he told me how the all of them came into contact with each other.

He told me that Kei had accidently bumped into Mari making her spill her favourite pudding at university. Mari was so devastated that she attacked Kei straight away. And just like that a beautiful friendship was formed between the two groups and all it took was a pudding being dropped to the floor.

Considering this is his friends we were talking about, I am not surprised at all.

Before I even knew it, we had reached home. Our little outing turned out to be unexpectedly fun.

The door opened just as Hachiman paid the taxi.

"Welcome back you two. Komachi told me you guys went to the mall." Mrs. Hikigaya greeted us with a blissful smile.

"We are back." I called out while Hachiman just nodded.

Mrs. Hikigaya moved back allowing us to enter the house. Only Komachi was present in the living room. Did the grandparents go off somewhere? Hachiman eyes were more focused on his mother.

"You guys must be tired, come sit down." She prompted us to settle down on the couch. Komachi even sat up straight to make room on the larger sofa.

I was tempted to take her offer since I was indeed tired but I have to help Hachiman take all the stuff back to our room. "Just let me put this bags in my room."

"I will take them; you can rest here." Before I could refuse him, he had already taken the bags away from me. I could only pout in protest while my husband gave me a shy grin.

"Hmmm." Mrs. Hikigaya hummed while watching us. "If you are going upstairs then help your father out. He is cleaning out your old room for your grandfather. Grandmother is sleeping in Komachi's room for now."

Hachiman raised his eyebrow and nodded. Without a word Hachiman made his upstairs while his mother watched his retreating back. Then she turned her attention towards me showcasing a smile. "Come Yumiko." She grabbed my hand and pulled me to one of the sofas.

"So how was your first date with Hachi? What did you guys do, was it fun?" Slowdown will you, your excitement is overwhelming me. Even Komachi was sneakily look at us while pretending to read her magazine.

Why does everyone keep saying it was a date? It wasn't, alright. I wish it was. I thought a little depressed. "Well, it was fun." I told her the truth. "We shopped for a bit, for cloths and other stuff. I even met Hachiman's friends too."

"Hachi's friends?" She whispered in surprised. "How were they?" She asked, her voice a little timid.

I raised my eyebrows. Hasn't she met them? "They are very nice people, a little weird but they were very kind. All of them look after Hachiman, especially the girl Mari. She really dotes on him." I tried my best to dispel her worries.

"Mari huh."

"Have you met her?" Komachi did say she doesn't know who Mari is so maybe Mrs. Hikigaya also never encountered her.

"Once or twice. She came to the house to take Hachi somewhere. Other than that, nothing else. She was respectful when she greeted me. I only know a little so I can't say for sure what to think of her. She looked like a good girl but I did feel unease around her. She had a same air about her as Hachi and his father."

"What do you mean?" I asked visibly confused.

"It's hard to explain, they have this dangerous aura around them. Like a wolf in human form. Mari also felt like that. I was a little worried, because Hachiman started to change so much and I thought Mari might have caused it."

"Mari is harmless." I had to say that with a forced smile. Well, it's true though, aside from her violent behaviour towards Hachi and Kei. She didn't do anything dangerous towards the others. "If I had to describe their relationship. I would say after watching them they are like brother and sister. They were really close." Every time I say that I feel a hint of jealousy towards Mari.

I looked over to Komachi and I realized I made a blunder. Her wide eyes stared into me with hurt. It was stupid of me to say something like that knowing how Komachi who was the real sister felt. Mrs. Hikigaya noticed my awkward situation also glanced at Komachi. But the latter had turned her body away from us.

"So, you had a great time with his friends huh." Mrs. Hikigaya turned to me changing the subject

"Ah yeah. All of them were really amazing too. I felt overwhelmed at first and awkward. But they were very considerate." Even when they called me cute and hugged me, the fact remained I was a potato compared to everyone. Were they giving me sympathy? Screw them if they were.

"That's good to hear." It's good for them to give me sympathy? Do you want to see me cry that much? "That's good." She whispered. It was more like she was telling herself that rather than me.

After taking a deep breathe her lips formed a business level smile. The one salespeople show you into buying their product but this one was even better than that. "It seems like you already met my parents. My mother gave me an ear full for not telling her about the marriage." Her cheeks puffed up like a child's.

I let out giggle. "Yes, I met her. She really makes wonderful sweets. I would love to learn how to make them."

"Really. They are Komachi's favourite. I can teach you later on how to make them. By the way Yumiko-chan." She leaned closer to me. "Komachi told me you want to arrange a birthday party for Hachi." She whispered into my ear.

I moved back a little, embarrassed. "Yeah, sorry about that. It was a dumb idea I came up with." A part of me still wanted to do it but now I realized maybe it was a bit ambition of me.

"It's not dumb at all. In fact, I think it's a wonderful idea." She was very euthanasic about it. Then again, wasn't she the one who arranged our marriage in the front place. Something like arranging a birthday was nothing.

"Let's do it." Mrs. Hikigaya eyes glowed with determination. She even made a fist aimed at the roof. I think I unleashed something unspeakable in the house. I can't even denounce her either. She suddenly grabbed my hands making me jump. "Yumiko-chan, will you help me."

"O-of course." I shuttered. It was hard to refuse when she is looking you like that.

"Alright then. First things first can you go to the to the shop with Komachi to buy some ingredients while I kick the boys out of the house." The way she said the latter part with a straight face was unsettling.

"Ah sure." I smiled awkwardly pretending not to hear the last part. "Just let me go upstairs and grab my purse."

"You don't have to buy them with your money. Komachi still has left over from yesterday." Even if you say that, I still have to have it on me just in case.

"I have to tell Hachiman anyways that I am going to the store." Well, that was the second reason why I wanted to go upstairs. I wonder what they are doing upstairs.

"Alright then, I will write down a list of the things you guys need to buy." She got up from the sofa and made her way to the kitchen.

Alright then. I also stood up and faced Komachi. "I will be right back Komachi."

"Yeah." She gave a dull reply, walking past me and into the kitchen. I guess what I said earlier made her upset. Good going Yumiko, you know how hard it was to get her to trust me.

I sighed and made my way upstairs.

I could hear a lot of noise coming from Hachi's old room. But just as I turned to check out the source, I was greeted by a steel wall almost knocking me off my feet. My poor nose took the most damage. I rub my face while cursing. Is the house haunted or something? Since when did invisible wall start popping out of nowhere.

I crook my head upwards with an angry frown but it was quick to disappear, replaced by a yelp as my body moved back. Mrs. Hikigaya, there is a black bear in the house. I almost screamed. Oh wait, that's just your husband. Never mind, false alarm.

"Sorry I didn't see you there. Did you get hurt?" He asked, his deep voice strangely panicked. Was he worried about me?

"No, it's fine. It was my fault I wasn't careful." He breathed out in relief when he saw I am unharmed. He was surprisingly caring despite of his rough appearance.

"Your father, my wife and son will kill me if there is even a stretch on you." So, you were worried for your own sake, sorry but I take back what I said before.

"Killing someone like you isn't an easy task." Komachi's grandfather emerged from the Hachi's old room. He had an unpleasant face but quickly changed it to a smile when he stood in front of me. "I see you are back dear. Still adjusting to the new home, I take it."

"A-ah yes. I am doing my best." I answered as best as I could.

He nodded, "That's good. I wish you luck then, you are going to need alot of it." The last part was crude and it really bothered me but I couldn't resort him. Both Mr. Hikigaya and I stood silently as the grandfather walked past us. "Since the new guest room is cleaned up, I will go back down stairs."

"He never learns." A dark voice leaked out from around me, making me jump. I turned around to see Hachiman standing behind us. Geez, don't scare me like that. I really thought a demon appeared all of a sudden. If that was the case, I would have used Mr. Hikigaya as a meat shield and ran away.

I guess he heard what his grandfather said.

"Nevermind him. Help me with the cupboard." Mr. Hikigaya completely unfazed by what happened and walked inside the room.

Hachiman glanced at me, "you may want to step back a bit." Hachiman also marched inside the room while I peeked at what they were doing. Both father and son laid the cupboard down and turned it sideways. Picking it up from both ends they started to take it out of the room.

Following Hachi's advice, I cleared the way for them and then followed after them to my room. It seems that they moved the drawers along with the cupboard. Well, that make things a bit easier. I was originally planning on buying new furniture but I guess I will just have to pass on that for now.

It's use what we have and think about replacing them later. I have to greatly alter my mind state now. I am not alone anymore nor am I in my own house so I have to be careful.

"Now only your desk is left." Mr. Hikigaya reminded his son.

"I will manage that."

"Alright, then I will leave." Mr. Hikigaya nodded and left the room after the short exchange.

Now that we were alone, Hachiman took a long breath to calm himself down. His expressions becoming softer. "Sorry you had to see that." Why do you keep apologizing so much? It wasn't even your fault.

"Like your father said, don't pay it too much into it." Even though the grandfather was super disrespectful. Got to give Mr. Hikigaya credit for keeping a straight face, not that he has shown any expression in front of me to begin with. He is always wearing that dull and stoic mask. Judging by the heavy bags under his eyes, he more like he is sleep walking. That's some level of skill.

Hachi sighed again, "I know you said to get along with my family but I don't think that can be applied to my grandparents. I just think I can deal with them." Hachiman hung his head low, his face conflicted.

I squeezed his hand. "I know it might be super hard but just try to be nice to them even if they don't appreciate the gesture. They are your grandparents and they might not be around tomorrow so try to make most of it."

Hachiman blinked a few times them his lips formed a small smile. "Sometimes I have a hard time believing you are the same person who bullied Yui in our first semester last year."

I flinched as he reminded of this incident. "I didn't mean to bully her." I defended myself. "I was a little upset alright, after all she was spending more time with Yukino than me. It just came out like that. I swear." Why did he have to make me remember my dark past.

He laughed after which he bent down and placed a kiss on the hand which he was holding. I had forgotten how dangerous my husband could be when alone. He waited until my guard was down and came in for the kill.

My cheeks swelled showing my displeasure. That kiss on the hand did not make me happy at all, well a little may but that's beside the point. In fact, I am more upset, meanwhile my husband was lazily smiling at me.

"I am leaving." I told him.

Hachiman raised an eyebrow. "Leaving me already. This might be the fastest divorce yet."

"I am going shopping with Komachi, you idiot." I crossed my arms, my glare bearing down on him.

"Shopping?"

"Just some ingredients your mom told us to buy." I informed him. This was one of the reasons why I came upstairs.

"Didn't you two buy enough yesterday." Well, that's true. We did buy enough for two more days.

"Well, your mother wants to make another big dinner since your grandparents are visiting." That's a good enough excuse, I guess. I didn't lie though. It was a dinner/birthday party.

"I see." And he took the bait

"You won't be lonely while I am gonna will you." Yes, suffer in your lonely little world. This is what you get for teasing me.

"Hmmm, maybe I will be lonely. In that case. "He leaned down and pulled me in a big hug. "Guess I will just have to recharge my husband energy." What the hell is husband energy and how many times have I told you not to hug me unexpectedly. Let me prepare myself at least.

I guess since I am stuck in this position anyways might as well make the most of it. A little hesitate, I slid my arms around his back as my face leaned against his chest with my eyes closed and lips curved upwards in a smile. I think my wife energy is over full capacity right now.

I let out a giggle, again what the hell is wife energy? It sounds so dumb. But I guess it's not a bad thing.

"Yumiko nee-san, are you in your room? Oh." My eyes opened instantly when Komachi's voice rang across the room. She was standing at the door with her mouth, wide eyes and red cheeks. "Sorry to disturb you." She said in a panic and ran away.

Similar to her I was also in turmoil and I pushed Hachiman back as the full weight of what I was doing bearing down at me. I let myself get caught with the spur of the moment. How shameless can I be?

I cupped my burning cheeks trying to hide my embarrassment. Hachiman licked his tongue, he clearly looked annoyed. Hi, don't be angry at your sister for something like that. She was just here because I was taking too much time.

"I guess I have to go."

"Alright. I still have to take out the desk from my room"

I walked over to my bag and took out the money from my hand bag. Better to have it on me just in case. "Anything you want from the store. Coffee maybe?"

"Hmmm, sure. Stay safe alright."

"I will." I waved him goodbye and made my way downstairs.

"Yumiko-chan, you were gone for a long time so I sent Komachi to check on you. But she came looking like she saw a ghost. Did something happen?" The mother asked weird.

"Nothing, nothing at all." I laughed weakly but Mrs. Hikigaya still looked cornered. Thank goodness Komachi didn't tell her mother. She would have teased me non-stop if she found out.

Once we were out of the house, Komachi led the way again. Apparently, this time we were heading towards a store near the house. Komachi said if I need anything on a short notice just go there.

"Komachi, I am sorry about what I said before. You know about Mari." Apologized when I saw her mood was better.

"It's fine. I am not upset. Rather I don't have the right to be upset. I wasn't exactly a model sister anyways." It was clear as day she was maintaining a strong front. Her fist had been clenched tightly since I brought up the issue.

As we entered the convenience store Komachi continued.

"I have not met Mari in person but I have listened to my brother talking to her on the phone. The way he talked to her, I thought she was a close friend and or maybe even his girlfriend. I had no way of finding out and besides, I didn't want to meddle with my brother's business anymore." What she said was depressing but I was glad Mari was just a friend. A close friend but at least not a girlfriend.

"But you are getting along better now, right. You two will start talking like you used to very soon." I tried to cheer her up to no avail. I wish I never brought up the topic in the first place.

"I doubt we can go back to those days again." Komachi started to pick out items according to the list. I let out a big sigh. I just keep making things worse don't I.

Since we were almost done with the shopping, I went to one of the fridges and pick out two icecream and paid for them. Oh, I almost forgot to buy Hachiman's drink. Since it was hot, it might be better if I buy something cool to drink instead of coffee. I don't know if he will like it but let's see.

When we walked out, I handed Komachi the icecream.

"Thanks, but you didn't have to pay though. I still had some of my mother's money left." She unwrapped the cover and began eating the orange flavour icecream.

"It's fine. Consider it my treat." I also took a bite of my icecream. Eating something cold in this heat was truly a bliss. I looked over to Komachi and she too was enjoying her icecream. Guess buying the icecream was a good idea.

"You know, it's a shock to see a guy like my brother acting all lovey dovey with someone. It's seriously creepy." Calling your brother creepy and calmly nibbling to the icecream. Also why are your cheeky red.

"Was your brother always this like?" I don't recall him doing anything remotely like that in school. He really a gloomy and unapproachable. But now he is scary and unapproachable. Then again, he was able to sneer more than one girl. He really is a player afterall.

"No, this is the first time I have seen him act like this. It's a shock really, not to mention creepy." Can you stop calling your brother creepy? It's like she is also calling me creepy too. Makes me want to cry.

"It's like aliens abducted my real brother and put a clone in his place. Yep, he is definitely a clone. There is no way my creepy and lazy sister-con of a brother turned into a frowning smart and athletic brother who also has friends and flirts with his wife like that. Definitely an imposter." Your brother might cry if he heard that.

"But I don't think it's a bad thing." She had finished the icecream with a smile and dropped the stick in one of the bags. Hmmm, at least her mood is better now. Also, I made a mental note to myself to close the door when Hachiman decides to hug me. Definitely gonna do that next time. It's not like I am looking forward to it though. Definitely not, so you can calm down heart. No hugs for you.

"Just so you know, I am looking forward to seeing my nephew soon." Komachi laughed and ran away.

Come back here you brat, take responsibility for restarting the rebellion in my heart.

When we arrived back home, Hachiman and his father had already been kicked out. The way Mrs. Hikigaya told me with a bright smile made me worry about them.

It also seems like the grandfather had also left the house, to meet some colleagues, my mother-in-law explained. She originally wanted her father to tag along with them but that was out of the question.

"I just hope those two don't murder each other." She made a conflicted face. It was like she was fully expecting that to happen. Just how little faith do you have in them. And why did you have to tell me that, now I am worried too. Please Hachiman. Don't fight with your father, I believe in you. I just hope they are not mistaken for two wild bears and get captured by the zoo.

The grandmother was awake and was helping out in the kitchen. I was surprised to see the grandmother scolding her daughter for small mistakes while the latter behaved like a little child. Though, she would needlessly praise Komachi for even the smallest task.

"You can rest Yumiko-chan, you don't have to force yourself to help out. We can handle it." She said probably realizing I was practically useless in the kitchen and said to not interfere in a nice way.

"It's fine. This was my plan so I want to do my part." I can't just sit on the side and watch you guys do all the work.

"Seriously celebrating a birthday that was weeks ago. Hachiman is too old for that."

"Its fine isn't it mother. It's been a while since we celebrated Hachi's birthday." My mother-in-law said with a smile.

"Humph." Hachiman's grandmother made an unpleasant face, her earlier smile was gone after her daughter debunked her. Even so she still continued to prepare food.

The air around the kitchen had become heavy and awkward but I tried not to prey too much attention to it and kept on doing what Mrs. Hikigaya instructed. Komachi was also minding her own business and worked silently. My husband's grandmother is just here for a short while, so just bear with it. I told myself.

"You want help with the cake Komachi." I asked as I was finishing up my part of the work.

"No. It's fine. I want to do it alone." Komachi suggested that she will make the cake by herself and her mother approved of it. I really admired Komachi, she was younger than me but she looked like she wasn't troubled at all. She really is skilful. I have to up my game also, can't let her out do me like this.

"Yumiko-chan, can you put up the balloons?"

"Yes, of course." I moved to the living room where the packet of balloons was placed.

"You don't have to go that far, do you." The older woman voiced her opinion again.

"Well, I wanted to do it since the last time I decorated the house was on Hachi's fifth birthday." Mrs. Hikigaya replied back with a smile. Her ahoge swinging left right.

The grandmother was getting on my nerves. I honestly thought she cared for her grandson when she asked how he was doing at school and if he had friends.

So, what Hachi said was true, were they truly nothing more than empty words. Was she trying to find out whether he was still a loner or a delinquent because of his appearance? I don't know what she was thinking but she and her husband have been nit-picking both Hachiman and his father since they arrived.

What's worse is, no one is calling them out on it. Why is Mrs Hikigaya remaining silent on this. Even I can tell her mother is taunting both her husband and son. She just brushes off the harsh comments with a smile and carries on.

"Since we are almost done, I will tell them to come back soon." Mrs. Hikigaya already had her phone in hand texting away. "Mother can you tell Dad to also come back."

Guess by the time they will be back I will have finished decorating. I have already blown the balloons now just have to tape them to the wall next to the television.

"Let me help with that." Komachi offered to help. I thanked her since it would be faster with two people. "After this, let's go get the white board mom has in her room. We can write Happy Birthday Gomi-chan on it." Komachi giggled.

"Gomi-chan? What's that?" I lightly laughed too.

"Just a pet name I used to call big brother with." She explained, a weak smile on her face. "Forgot what I said. It was a dumb idea."

"No, I think it' a great idea. Gomi-chan." I started to laugh. "What a cute name. Let's finish up and get the white board."

"Thanks." Komachi's expressions softened up, a gentle smile on her lips.

Just as we were taping the balloons, Mrs. Hikigaya came by and she also pitched in. We were successfully able to complete the task with three times the speed. Now all that left is the white board. When we told the white board idea to her, she absolutely loved it. Even gave Komachi and me permission to raid her room. Well, that's how she phrased it.

Even though she said I was free to enter her room, I still stayed outside and let Komachi search for the white board. She probably knew where it was because Komachi came right back out in ten seconds.

"Yep, we can use this." I nodded after seeing the board.

"So, whose gonna write on it?" Komachi asked as we made our way back to the living room.

"Not me, my hand writing isn't beautiful. How about you write it?" I don't want to embarrass myself in front of everyone. Better let someone else take the fall.

"Nah, I am not confident either. Let's just ask mom to do it. She knows calligraphy." I guess Komachi was thinking the same thing. There is no way Mrs. Hikigaya can refuse if we both ask her.

Komachi handed the board over to her mother and she got to work in a split second. Both Komachi and I watched her draw elegant characters without breaking a sweat.

"I see your skills hasn't dulled all this time." Komachi's grandmother praised her daughter studying each character with a keen eye.

"Thank you, mother. I try to keep up from time to time." She answered back with a bright smile.

"It's a shame your husband can't even properly write his own name properly." The smile across Mrs. Hikigaya's face broke down, her mouth hung open as her dark eyes stared at her mother in shock. This time there was nothing she could say back to defuse her mother's words.

"That's going to far." I clenched my fist, my temper out of control. All eyes looked at me but I was only focused on the elderly woman. Who does she think she is?

"You guys have been belittling both my husband and his father since you got here. Did you only ask about Hachiman's friends and school only to see how pathetic he was doing? Do you hate those two that much?" How can she even talk like that about her own grandson?

I yelled as loudly as my voice allowed it. I was left patting, waiting to see what the older woman might say. Just hope some sense was knocked into her. "I see Hachiman managed to marry a woman as wild and uncultured as himself. It's no wonder you two oddly look good together." Instead of reflecting on what I said she just directed her attacks on me.

"Mother that's enough." Mrs. Hikigaya who was silent up till now finally spoke. "I am happy you came to visit after so long but can you please not keep on insulting my family just this once."

"You are taking their side again over your parents." The grandmother glared at her daughter. "You have always been like this."

"I am taking no one's side. I just want my family to be happy. Is that too much to ask for once in my life." My mother-in-law yelled greatly startling the elderly woman who watched the tears streaming down her daughter's face.

Komachi stood by her mother's side trying to console her while the latter tried to control her crying.

The grandmother turned away at the sight of her daughter. "Sorry for causing trouble everytime. I shouldn't have come in the first place. I will take my leave then." She made a dejected face and walked off towards the stairs.

Now all that was left was the three of us trapped in an awkward silence. "I am sorry." I was the first to speak. My hand hugging my other arm and my face was downcast. This happened because I lost control of myself. If only I had stayed quiet then both mother and daughter wouldn't have to argue like this. It's all my fault.

Mrs. Hikigaya walked over and embraced me unexpectedly. "No, it's fine you did the right thing. I should have stopped her from the start." She pulled back, "thank you for defending my son. Your father did say you were a feisty one. I thought she was exaggerating but I guess he wasn't wrong."

She let out a weak laugh. "Ah, my face is a mess, can't have my husband see me like this. Let me go fix it up for a bit."

Komachi and I watched Mrs. Hikigaya's retreating back as she moved through the living room and disappeared once inside her room.

"I am sorry Komachi." Even though Mrs. Hikigaya didn't blame me for starting the scene. I still felt responsible. I had destroyed the mood she carefully made in a second.

"It's fine. This always happens when they or our other relatives visit. One fight after the other. I tried to keep grandparent's attention away from Hachiman and father but it was impossible from the beginning." She told me with a sour expression.

"Don't mind it ok? I wish I had the courage to do the same." She tried to reassure me. Taking a heavy breath, she took the board maker and started to drawing on it.

"What are you doing?" I asked surprised.

"I don't want this birthday party to go to waste just because of this. So, I will do whatever I can." She kept scribbling on the board with determined eyes. I admired her dedication although her drawing was a bit childish.

Mrs. Hikigaya came back having cleaned herself up. She looked like nothing happened in the first place. When she saw Komachi's drawing she laughed and patted her daughter's head. The latter pouted in response but kept drawing.

The doorbell rang causing us to turn towards the entrance.

"Is it them?" I asked.

"I don't think so. I told my husband to text me when he is close. It's probably father." Mrs. Hikigaya explained.

Komachi ran towards the door and opened it. True enough, the grandfather walked in and began inspecting the room. "I see you guys have prepared everything. Where is Sora, I don't see her."

"Mother went upstairs." Mrs. Hikigaya told her father.

"Oh, was she not feeling well?" The older man asked her daughter but she didn't respond. Instead, they stared at each other at which point the contest was broken when the older man sighed and shook his head. "I will go check on her then." He excused himself and went upstairs.

I wonder if he realized what happened? I looked over to Mrs Hikigaya and she looked unease. When she noticed I was looking at her, she just smiled back trying to hide her pain.

It was a bit sad, how the day ended up being this depressing. I just hope by the time Hachiman gets back; the mood is somewhat better.

"They sure are taking a long time coming back." Komachi commented while looking at the cloak. True, alot of time had gone back since the argument and it was getting fairly late. "Did something happen to them?" Maybe they were captured by the zoo keepers?

"They are probably fine." Mrs Hikigaya showed us a weak smile. "It's them we are talking about so they will be fine." Despite saying that, she also looked worried. She tried calling them and just like the other countless times, there was no reply.

My heart became a little worried as fear crept inside my chest. Please get back home. I silently prayed.

Suddenly the sound of the door being unlocked reverberated across the living room.

"It's them." Komachi whispered.

"Alright, get ready everyone." Mrs. Hikigaya told us as we gathered in front of the entrance to greet them.

Just as the door opened, all three of us sang together. "Happy bir.." But the sound died half way through.

All of us stared at the two individuals, the older one leaning on the younger for support. Both of their faces bruised and beaten. Mrs. Hikigaya ran to her husband before I could even blink. I was practically frozen in time with my heart stopped as my terrified green eyes stared at my own husband.

"What happened?" Mrs. Hikigaya inspected her husband and son, while the latter two gave each other side glances, sweating profusely. "Did you get attacked? How did you managed to get hurt this badly?" Her panicked voice made the two even more petrified as well as increasing my own tension.

"We slipped." Mr. Hikigaya replied in a carefree manner. "Right, Hachiman."

"Yeah, those were some slippery stairs." Hachi, I don't think following down a couple of stairs can do that to a man.

"Yes, yes. They should probably get it fixed before more people fall down." Mr. Hikigaya continued.

"The one thing that needs fixing are your brains." Mrs. Hikigaya yelled making both the father and son duo shrink back in fear. "Did you guys fight?" She glared at them.

"No." Both of them said it unison.

"Of course not. Why would we fight? You are imagining things." The father tried to play it off as calmly as possible while managing to avoid his wife's lazar like eyes.

"No, you definitely fought. There is no other way you could have been this hurt otherwise. Seriously, even after I told you to behave." She folded her arms and turned away. Her worries turned into displeasure.

"Sorry." He apologized, his head down. Does apologizing to your spouse after you make dumb mistakes also part of the Hikigaya's bloodline father-in-law? If so, can you remove that quality altogether. "We tried doing that but it didn't work. I just thought, it would be a good time for the family tradition." So it was about that after all.

"You and your family traditions." She scolded her husband as his head sunk even further under the pressure. "It doesn't mean you try to kill each other."

"But you know I did it with my own father before we got married."

"This and that are different." She yelled. The father didn't resort and stayed silent; his face was distressed by his wife's words. Mrs. Hikigaya sighed and turned to look at her husband checking his injuries. She placed her hand on his cheek, "seriously, what am I going to do with you."

"Sorry for making you worry."

She let out a long sigh, "so, judging by how you look, I guess Hachi was the one who won." I examined Hachiman and he appeared far better off than his father.

The father laughed and then to everyone amazement, a big grin appeared on his face. "I guess our son is really strong."

"He smiled." Komachi whisper in surprise, her eyes wide. Was that really a big deal? I have to admit, I didn't think he was capable of showing that expression. I always looks like a bad mood since I met him.

Even Mrs. Hikigaya was taken a back. She stared at her husband's goofy smile and she looked like all her anger melted away just like that and her lips also curved up in a big smile. She moved closer to her husband to support him. "It's fine Hachi, I can take it from here. This brings back memories." She also showed a carefree smile along with her husband.

Hachiman released his father and watched his mother help the injured bear, I mean father-in-law to the sofa. The sofa making a cracking sound when he collapsed on it.

"You need to visit the hospital tomorrow, and take a day off." Mrs. Hikigaya was back in her scolded mood and she lecture her husband nonstop after that.

"This is just a scratch; I will be fine by tomorrow after some sleep." This earned him another earful from his wife.

I walked over to Hachi and following my mother-in-law's example, also glared at my husband. The latter showed me a weak smile but I turned around and walked away. Geez, the men in this house are so stupid. Do you know how awful I felt when I saw you in that state? My heart completely stopped you know.

"Big brother looks sad now." Komachi whispered to me.

"Let him suffer for a while." This is his punishment afterall.

"That's pretty evil Yumiko nee-san. Now both his body and heart are hurting." You look like you are in a good mood even though both your brother and father are hurt. I think seeing her father's smile caused her and mother-in-law to have a momentarily meltdown.

"Happy birthday Gomi-chan? Whose that?" The father asked confused. He looked around the living room, balloons taped around the TV, the white board with cute and childish picture of the family and a chocolate cake sitting on a small table in front of the TV. The candles waiting to be lit.

"It's for Hachi's birthday." Mrs Hikigaya explained.

"Oh, it's Hachiman's birthday?" This man, did he get a screw loose after getting beat by his son. "So, it's his birthday and he is passed the family's tradition. Today really is special." Hachiman's birthday was last week. Doesn't he know that? Please, follow your wife's advice and get yourself checked.

"Don't just stand there." Mr. Hikigaya ordered his son who was still standing at the door dejected. "Cut the cake and thank everyone for making it for you."

"Actually, Komachi made the cake by herself." Mrs. Hikigaya told the two.

"In that case, can I have the first bite?" Mr. Hikigaya mood was boosted after hearing that but one look from his wife made him go silent. That was some terrifying power she has over her husband. I need to learn her secrets.

I walked over to Hachiman and grabbed his hand. "Come on, your sister worked hard making the cake." I will forgive you just this once so never do something like this again.

I pulled Hachiman along, the latter offering no protest nor said a word. "Here you go." I handed Hachiman the knife. Hi, don't look so stiff, you look like someone who is going out to murder. Maybe giving him the knife was a bad idea.

"Yumiko-chan, how about you cut the cake together." Mrs. Hikigaya suggested. No way, I can't do that. That's too embarrassing, especially in front of everyone. "Come on, don't be shy." My mother-in-law prompted me with a devilish smile.

After being forced by my evil mother-in-law, I stepped closer to Hachiman while others looked on. Please don't stare too much. Now, how should I hold the knife with him.

"Here." Hachiman stood behind me and let me hold the knife properly while he held the end of the handle. I knew it, this is super embarrassing. Get me out. Mrs. Hikigaya can you not hold the phone with a creepy smile.

I guess I just have to brave it.

"Happy Birthday Gomi-chan." Both the mother and daughter sang out while clapping as we cut the cake. I took a sigh of relief when it was finally done.

"Yumiko nee-san face is all red in the picture." Komachi commented after watching the photo her mother had taken.

Why you little. I picked up the slice of cake Hachi and I cut and tried to force the piece in Komachi's mouth. The latter resisted but it was useless. I didn't stop until the whole piece was stuffed down her mouth.

"Yumiko nee-san is a bully." That's revenge for bullying me. Humph

The mother laughed at our childish actions. She truly looked happy and enjoyed herself despite of what happened earlier. At least she can finally experience the special moment with her family like she wanted. An idea popped in my head and I cut another slice of cake and handed it to Hachiman.

Hachi's raised his eyebrows after I was done whispering into his ear. Everyone looked at us with wonder. "Please." I joined my hands together in a prayer motion. Hachiman took a deep breath and moved forward with the piece of cake.

The raven-haired teen stopped right in front of his mother. He was sweating and his hand shaking as he hovered the cake close to his mother's mouth. The mother looked up at her son's red face with surprise and then at the cake he was holding.

"Go on honey, he looks like he might explode." The father jokingly said. He too was watching the scene with tender eyes.

Pushed on by her husband's words she ate the small piece straight from her son's hand. Hachiman relieved from the task took a heavy breath and started to back away. But he was stopped completely in his tracks as his mother had captured him in her arms.

A little bewildered, Hachiman was frozen in place as his mother brushed her cheeks against his chest. "Hachi, this is your eighteen birthday, I didn't even notice when my little boy grew up so much." She tightened her grip on Hachiman's messed up shirt as silent tears streamed down her cheeks. "I am sorry Hachi."

Hachiman was helpless as his mother cried against him. The pervious embarrassment was gone now replaced by distress. With hesitation he slowly wrapped his long arms around his mother while the latter continued her sobbing.

Komachi who had watched the scene unfold rubbed her eyes trying to get rid of the forming water drops. I patted her back in an attempt to console her.

How was I supposed to know my little idea had the potential to be this emotionally destructive? Even I felt my chest swelling up and I too was on the verge of crying. At this rate the entire house might drown.

It took a while for everyone to calm down after which we began to eat. Mrs. Hikigaya gave the lion's share of the cake to Hachiman whose eye twitched just by looking at the sweet chocolate cake. My husband couldn't even refuse since it was his mother who offered it.

Everytime he would take a bite, he acted like he just ate poison. His mother joyfully watched him chew the cake while his sister was making a video fully enjoying her brother's torment. You can do it Hachiman; I believe in you. Hi, don't pass out just yet, there is still half left.

After serving the food to her husband, Mrs. Hikigaya began to collect all of the dishes available on the tray.

"Where you are taking that?" Mr. Hikigaya asked chewing his food.

"Ah this. Just going upstairs to give this to my parents." Mrs. Hikigaya showed him a weak smile.

Her husband raised an eyebrow at her. "Sorry, I didn't notice they weren't here. Are they not feeling well? They must be tired from the long day." He narrowed his eyes on his wife. "Let me take the food to them." He got up and tried to take the tray away from Mrs. Hikigaya.

"It's fine, I will manage. Besides, you are injured." She urged her husband to sit down.

"I can move fine now." He stubbornly insisted.

"I am telling you it's fine. Please sit." She gave him a hard smile and pretty much forced him on the sofa. This time her husband offered no resistance and was compiled to listen. But he still kept his eyes on his eyes as she made her way through the living room and upstairs.

I gave a side glance to my own husband and he too was watching his mother carefully. Did they suspect something happened? If so, they didn't try to prey into the matter. I was thankful for that; the mood was finally better and I didn't want to ruin it by bring it up again.

Mrs. Hikigaya came back down after a while and sat down beside her husband. "How are they?" My father-in-law asked his wife.

"They are fine now. They said they are leaving in the morning so they will go to sleep early."

"Oh, do you want me to drop them off at the airport?"

"No, they said they will take a cab. Besides, you need to rest alright. Please take a day off tomorrow, knowing you, you will go to work even in that condition." The mother pouted while her husband gave her a lazy grin.

From what Mrs Hikigaya told me about her husband. I bet he is thinking just that. He will be up and about before his wife even wakes up. I looked over to Hachiman who was still recovering from cake poisoning. Don't be so over dramatic, there is no way anyone can die from eating cake.

"Hachi, you should also get yourself check." He didn't look as hurt as his father but better be safe than sorry.

"I am fine, so no need for that." He completely dismissed my idea. I frowned and pressed down on his side causing him to shut his mouth trying to hold in the pain.

"You are going to the hospital too." This time I ordered, slightly raising my voice while glaring. I believed in you and you still went ahead and fought with your father. Mrs. Hikigaya even guessed you guys will pull this kind of stuff.

The best-case scenario would have been if you guys were captured by the wild life people. At least it would have been better than this.

"Yes..." He relented.

"Yumiko nee‐san scary." Komachi commented while her mother let out a giggle. Meanwhile the father watched his son with sympathy almost shedding a tear.

I frowned at the father knowing he got off easy just because he showed a smile with enough destructive power to completely destroy his wife's wrath. Sadly, for my husband, he doesn't have any trick he can use against me.

Hi, don't at me like that and stop rubbing the spot I pressed on, you are making me feel guilty now. He must be really hurting. What should I do? Maybe an icepack? Should I call my father, he is a doctor after all.

"Calm down, I am not dying." If you want to blame someone, it's you. It's your fault I am worried sick now.

"Alright, settle now." Mrs. Hikigaya spoke up. "They will go to the hospital tomorrow to get checked so don't worry alright." She tried to reassure me. But tomorrow is so far away, wouldn't it be better if I called my father over. He would probably come running if I called him.

"Relax, I am fine." Hachiman grabbed my shoulders making me focus on him. His terrifying dark eyes bearing down on me.

"You will get yourself checked tomorrow, right?" I asked with hesitation.

Hachiman let out a sigh, "I will."

"Promise?"

His gaze became softer and his touch light. "I promise."

I took a heavy breath trying to calm down as Hachiman moved away. Mrs. Hikigaya handed me a bowl. "Don't worry, I will make sure they get a checked up tomorrow so eat up. The food will freeze at this rate."

Mr. Hikigaya was already eating alongside Komachi, the latter munching on her food without a care. The father's condition was strangely improving by the second since he was sitting next to Komachi, and what's with that goofy smile, it's totally creepy. Komachi, can you please change seat, it looks like your father is having an episode.

While eating, both the father and mother were talking to each other while Komachi tried her best to poke at me, looking for small cracks in my defence while Hachiman was the only one who stayed silent and ate his food in peace. His gaze shifting between us and his parents.

Why he is dropping the meat on the floor and what's that ball of fur doing next to his feet? Oh, that's their cat, I forgot it existed. What's was its name again? I don't think Hachi told me the name.

"Guess I will go back to my room then." Since everyone was done eating, Mr. Hikigaya retired to his room. He seems to be walking fine now. Maybe sitting with his daughter made him heal faster? Yeah, like that's even possible.

Mrs. Hikigaya stretched her arms, looking a bit tired. "Komachi, can you handle the dishes?"

"Yeah, just go rest." The daughter replied back.

"I will help too." I volunteered myself. Didn't want to sit around while Komachi does all the work. I was a little tired and sleepy but I just had to bear with it for a little while.

"Really, thank you Yumiko-chan." The mother smiled at me. "Also, can you guys put the leftovers in the fridge."

"Yumiko and I will do the dishes. Komachi can put the food in the fridge." Hachiman's sudden voice made me jump. Don't just teleport behind people like that, my heart also jumped out of my chest.

"Are you sure? You can go rest since you are hurt." The mother looked up at her son with worry.

"It's fine."

"If you say so." Mrs. Hikigaya giggled and then turned towards me. "Good luck Yumiko-chan." I raised my eyebrow trying to understand what was going on inside her head. Why would I even need luck to wash the dishes. Maybe because she knew how clumsy I am in the kitchen. Now that just makes me want to cry.

"Well, I will see you guys tomorrow then. Good night." Komachi and I wished her night while she quickly disappeared inside her room.

Alright. Time to get to work. Hachiman and I both stood in front of the kitchen stink. I was barely able to make room for myself since Hachiman took up most of the space because of his build.

Komachi collected the dishes and then gave them to us to clean. While cleaning I realized something, don't Hachiman and I look like newly married couple? Oh wait, we are. I giggled at the thought. I guess this was what Mrs. Hikigaya was imply.

Wait, does that mean Hachiman wanted to wash the dishes with me? How bold of him. What other secret tricks do you have on your sleeves Mr. Husband. Maybe some flowers?

"What's so funny?" Hachiman gave me a side glance, his eyebrow raised. "You have been making weird noises for a while now.

"Nothing, nothing at all." I brushed his question of with another small laugh.

Hachiman looked visible confused but didn't prey more into it. He turned around to see Komachi having put all the food away in the fridge was now watching TV. "By the way, can I ask you something?" He turned around to wash the plates.

"What is it." I was curious since he made sure Komachi wouldn't listen.

"Was the birthday thing your idea?" I initially stopped watching the glass in my hand before resuming the task.

"Yeah, it's kind of was." Was he upset with me? Komachi did say her brother disliked birthdays. Did he want to help out so we can be alone and call me out on it?

I hope that's not the case. I only suggested it on a whim, I honestly just wanted to make Hachiman happy and get along with him better. I thought if the family got on it, then maybe their bonds might improve. It was a childish idea, I know but I just wanted to do something,

"Thanks." A single word was uttered.

I looked at my husband in shock. I was expecting him to be angry, not thanking me.

Hachiman slightly turned his face towards me watching my reaction. A small smile formed on his lips as his hand landed on my head, patting it tenderly. "Thank you, Yumiko. For the Birthday surprise."

He turned around and went back to washing the dishes. The smile now bigger than before.

My heart did a little jump in my chest while my face felt like it was on fire. The plate I was holding was shaking in my hand. Stupid Hachiman, he was better off saying nothing in the first place. Stabilizing myself a little, I also went back to work, the silence between us growing more comfortable.

This is nice. A gentle smile spread across my face. I can get used to this.

"By the way, there is something else I wanted to ask you." What is it this time, it better not be something damaging to my poor heart. The poor thing has already suffered enough.

"Maybe tomorrow, if it's alright with you." What is it man, get on with it. "Maybe we can go on a date tomorrow."

"….."

I think it was much better if he didn't say anything in the first place.

I almost dropped the plate and screamed. I would have too if my body wasn't turned to stone. It was like his words cast a magic spell on me. I couldn't even utter a sound. Can you please don't look at me like that, you are making it worse.

"Sure." How was I even able to respond to him so calmly. Was my auto-pilot mode activated? I have to give those guys a raise. But seriously, a date with Hachiman. An actual date. Not a trip to the mall or meeting random people but an actual date.

I feel like I am going to faint just by thinking about it.

Wait a minute, what the hell am I even supposed to wear. I have absolutely no cloths. This is going to be our first date so I need to wear something special. Maybe that outfit I bought today, no, not that, too flashy. May that dress I bought two weeks ago. No, too simple. Maybe something cute that appeals to my figure?

I have literally nothing to wear. What am I supposed to even do now? This is all Hachiman's fault for telling me about the date on a short notice. Maybe I can ask Kaede-san for help, she looked like she is pretty knowledgeable in fashion so she might assist me. Then again, she might hijack my date if she knew about it. Even worse, she might tell Mari. I think I will just have to pass on that.

I guess I just have to scrap together whatever I can.

But a date with Hachiman. A real date with my husband. Hehe, I can't wait for tomorrow.

Because of the date, I gained a boost of energy and I was able to work faster well humming. Hachiman on the other hand had moved away from me, a little overwhelmed.

"Yumiko nee-san, you look super happy, what happened?" Komachi asked as we stepped outside the kitchen. "Did big brother say something?" She had a devilish grin on her face.

"No, nothing." I can't tell her that Hachiman asked me out on a date. Who knows what might happen? She might start teasing and let the whole house know about it. Maybe I will tell her after the date is over.

Komachi looked at me with suspicious glare and mumbled something.

"Anyway, you want to watch this movie with me? I have been meaning to see it for a while and now it's airing on TV." Komachi pointed the screen. The movie was paused at the opening scene, looks like an animated one.

"Sure, why not." We did promise to go see a movie but I guess this is also good enough. Plus, it's cozy inside the house. I turned to Hachiman, "do you want to see it with us?" Just hope he hasn't seen it before, otherwise he might try spoil it for us, well according to Komachi anyways. If that is the case, then I will just stuff his mouth with a pillow.

"Hm, sure." Why was he looking at from me, was he embarrassed because he asked me on a date? That's cute. I tried not to laugh and kept staring at his shy face with a smirk. Just how much courage did he muster to ask me any ways? More importantly, did he come up with the idea himself or was Mari involved in this? Either way I am happy.

"Just let me get changed into my pyjamas." He told us turning around and swiftly ran upstairs.

"Wait for me." I think I should also change my cloths. Yesterday I couldn't do it because I had nothing with me. But since I have brought most of my things from my house, that issue was solved. "Komachi, we will be right back."

"No problem, the movie is paused either way." Komachi watched me as I also made my way upstairs but I stopped in the middle of the hallway when I saw Hachiman standing at the door of his old room. His grandfather standing in front of the closed room.

Their attention was shifted towards me as I approached closer.

"Yumiko-chan, you are here." The older man greeted me with a smile. "Hachiman, can I have a word with his wife in private?" My husband although looked displeased, couldn't refuse and just nodded. "This won't take long."

Hachiman glanced my way for a second before turning away and walked inside our room, the locks on the door clicking.

Now that we were alone, the older man's smile was gone replaced by a sad one. He lowered his head to his waist in a deep bow. What was he doing?

"Please, raise your head." I told him in a panic. His actions had taken me by surprise and I didn't know what to do. "I am sorry for my wife's behaviour a while back. She was rude to you and I apologize for that." He spoke once he was back in his original position. His eyes listless.

"No, it's fine." Besides, I am not the one you should be apologizing too. Not to mention you also made rude remarks towards my father-in-law. "How is she?" I hope she thought over what she had done. Seriously, I don't understand why she would even do it in the first place.

"She is sleeping now. She was a bit troubled about what she said. My daughter and I calmed her down and she fell asleep after eating a little." She shouldn't have done it in the first place. I would like to say but I didn't want to restart the problem after things settled down.

The grandfather took a heavy breath, "well that was all I wanted to say. Sorry again for what happened and congratulations on your marriage with my grandson. I pray you two find your happiness. I must take my leave now; we have to leave for the airport early in the morning."

"Yeah, it was a pleasure meeting you." Though, I hoped it was under better circumstances. I even gave him a small bow just to be courteous.

The grandfather nodded and retreated inside the room.

At least it went well. The grandfather didn't blow up like his wife. I took a heavy breath and walked to my room.

Before I could knock, the door opened itself and out came Hachiman wearing a loose blue T-shirt and white shorts showing casing his developed calves and defined quad muscles. For some reason, Hachiman in his night wear looked a bit captivating.

I couldn't pinpoint what the exact cause was but I couldn't stop looking at him. When he noticed me staring at him too much, he turned his head, preferring to stare at the wall.

Hachi cleared his throat causing me to refocus myself. "Sorry for making you wait. I should have changed in the bathroom."

"No, it's fine. We just finished talking." I explained.

"Oh, what did he say?" Hachi's eyes narrowed down on me.

"He just congratulated me and wished me. It was nice of him." I told him with a smile. Well, I didn't lie though. That's what he said for the most part. It's not like I wanted to hide stuff from him. But it was better for everyone if the incident was never mentioned again.

"I see. That's good then." He looked relieved when I said that. His eyes becoming softer now. "I will wait down stairs before Komachi comes back up to check on us again." Ah, why did you have to make me remember the hugging thing again

"Alright, it won't take long." I went inside the room and locked the door. Even made sure to double cheek it in case my husband tries to be cheeky which I know he won't, but just in case.

Opening one of the suitcases, I pulled out my rather simple green pyjama with small star patterns on it. I guess this is good enough for now. There was no way I was wearing anything remotely suggestive. I wonder what Hachiman might think of it.

I shook my head, there is no time to think about such things. Komachi is waiting for me so I better hurry.

I quickly changed my cloths and ran downstairs where both Hachiman and Komachi were waiting for me.

"I am back." I called out to them.

Hachiman dull expression quickly change to surprise once his eyes fell upon me. What happened to him all of a sudden, and can you stop staring at me all of sudden. I can just feel myself blushing up.

"Big brother, Yumiko nee-san is your wife so you can stare all you want later. Now can we start the movie please." Komachi frowned at the both of us.

"I wasn't staring that much." He tried to defend himself in a pathetic attempt. You totally were, I guess even a simple pyjama like this was too much for him. I smiled after claiming victory over my husband. Komachi continued to glare at me. Ok, fine, I will sit down.

I sat next to Komachi on the carpeted floor while Hachi sat on the couch with a bored face, a heavy yawn escaping his mouth. At least be a little enthusiastic about it. Don't fall asleep half way through the movie alright. If you do then there is no way we can drag you back to your room.

The movie was apparently about a group of babies declaring war against the adults. It was quite a silly concept but I guess it was made as a family movie. Honestly the various acts preformed by the babies were hilarious. The adults were even clueless against the babies plans and the only reason they weren't getting anything done was because their plans were blowing up in their faces. Literally and figuratively.

It really was a fun movie and I would find myself laughing along side Komachi. On rare moments laughter could be heard from behind us but when we turned around for the source, he was just sitting there is his usual face.

I even made it my mission to witness my husband laughing at every funny scene to catch him red handed but because he had realized what I was trying to do, he kept up his neutral face all the time. I got fed up and returned back to watching the movie.

Since I was so absorbed into the movie, I didn't notice as flash of white flew passed my line of vision and landed straight to my lap making me jump and scream.

"Yumiko nee-san, calm down. It's just our cat." Komachi's voice spoke from beside me. Truly, when I looked down. The white cat stared back at me with a cute meow. "Oh, I have never seen him get so close to someone before. He stays away from everyone except me and mother."

"He looks super grumpy too." I held the fur ball in my hands, luckily, he didn't resist and at stayed quiet. He is surprisingly obedient. "What's his name anyways?"

"Oh, we didn't tell you before? My bad, his name is Kamakura. Here, try to rub him like this."

"Oh, you mean like this? He looks like he is enjoying it too even though he still looks grumpy." Both Komachi and I laughed as we played with the cat. But no matter what we did to it, he still looked grumpy. Well, it was kind of cute in a way.

Oh, he ran away to Komachi's lap, preparing to sleep.

Speaking of sleeping, I was also close to dozing off. I even yawned much to my embarrassment.

"Yumiko, you must be tired. Let's go to our room. We can watch the movie later." Hachiman was quick to notice how sluggish I became.

"I am fine, I am not sleepy at all." I totally sound like a child right now.

"You are totally sleepy Yumiko nee-san." Komachi laughed while stroking the cat's fur.

"I am not." I protested. Look, half of the movie is left so it's better if we just finish it. I don't want to ruin the experience just because I couldn't stay awake.

I could hear Hachiman sigh from behind me, "alright, come here then. Your face might hit the floor at this rate." Hachiman patted the spot besides him. Oh, he was inviting me on the sofa. Wait a minute, do you realize Komachi is here with us? Do you still want me to sit next to you? That's too much.

It took all my might to suppress the in coming yawn. Well, whatever. It's either embarrass myself by sitting next to Hachiman or embarrass myself by falling face first on the floor. I pick the former.

I got up and sat besides my husband, my head resting on his shoulder. This is so nice; I am glad I took his offer. Wait a minute, this is much worse. Now I am feeling even more sleepy and my eyes lids seemed to have gained double it's weight.

Must resist the temptation. Funny how I say that and then begin immediately start to become comfortable against him like brushing my cheeks against his shoulders.

I don't know why I am this sleepy, I usually don't go to bed before midnight. It's probably because I woke up super early thanks to Hachiman. It sure has been a long and tiring day. When was the last time I was this exhausted?

My half closed eyes staring listlessly at the TV screen.

A lot happened today. Both good and bad things happened. Waking up to the sight of my husband, me being depressed, meeting Kotomi, Mari and Hachiman's other friends. His grandparents coming over, my time with Saki. Shopping with my husband. And most importantly, the birthday surprise.

Now I could add watching a movie with my new family to the list.

A small smile appeared on my face as my vision became blurry. My eyes closed on their own having reached their limit.

It wasn't a prefect day. It had its ups and downs but I had fun for the most part. Will everyday be like this? I pray that they are.

The sound of the movie playing cut off. Did it finish already. Ah, I didn't even see the ending. My body feels like its floating now, I feel so light. On instincts, I grabbed onto a piece of cloth while my face buried itself deeper in my husband's embrace.

The sound of the door opening could be heard followed by my body being laid down on a soft surface. I briefly opened my hazy eyes to stare at my husband who was in the middle of covering me with a blanket.

Just as he was doing that, I reached out with both my hands, grabbing the back of his neck and pulled him in a hug.

"Yumiko?" My husband whispered out in surprise.

"Thanks for a wonderful day, Hachi." I whispered back and released him from the hug.

He continued to stare down at me with surprise. I would have laughed too if I wasn't so sleep deprived like this, so I just settled for a soft smile. This made him even more shocked. What's with you, your cute wife is showing her love but you are standing there with a dumb expression.

Well, whatever, I am too tired to do anything about it.

My eyes closed again; this time I don't think they might reopen until they got their due rest.

My body became heavier and my brain started to shut down. I wonder what's going on inside Hachi's mind right now. These fleeting thoughts drafted across my mind as it inched closer to its long-awaited dreamland.

I wonder how tomorrow's date is going to be like. This was the final thought before my conscious faded completely, losing itself in a deep slumber.

A/N: If you want to about the progress of the overall story then there are two more chapters and a bonus chapter. My goal is to write these three chapters in the upcoming four months and end the story by the end of September.

Both positive and negative feedback is welcome.