Raiden POV.

After being sick for a day, the next morning I woke up completely healthy.

Maybe I should be happy that I only get sick on rare occasions, but if you got sick to the degree that I do, you'd rather not get sick at all.

Once recovered, I attended Sobu High School as normal, at lunchtime I coordinated with the girls for our Saturday outing and during club time, I returned the umbrella to Yukinoshita. We had a little conversation about the older brothers since I indirectly ended up getting sick because of them, Although since I did not attach much importance to this, Yukinoshita did the same.

Come to think of it, the more time passes, the easier it gets for me to interact with her.

But still her sarcastic jokes and biting insults make me still consider her a pain in the ass.

And putting that aside, I am currently on my way to Kawasaki's house.

Yesterday we arranged to meet at the station to go to Destiny Land, but since I made that promise to Keika, it's my duty to keep it.

Once I arrived at the door of her house, I sent her a message on Line.

After a short while the front door opened, revealing a cheerful Keika running towards me.

Keika is wearing a light blue dress to match her hair.

''Hi Kei-chan, ready to see the best fireworks.''

''Yes!''

I could tell the excitement in her voice.

I should write down the promises I make since I seem to end up forgetting them, and now that I think about it, I feel like I'm forgetting something. But I guess I'll remember sooner or later.

I carry Keika and put her on my shoulders. She likes it when I carry her like that.

''Then Keika, ready to go?''

''Yes!''

I started to move forward, although I could notice a certain blue-haired girl approaching us.

''Oe Tsurumi, where the hell do you think you're taking my sister?''

Kawasaki was wearing blue jeans and a red t-shirt. An ideal outfit for her figure.

''To see the fireworks, it's obvious.'' I replied teasingly.

''Keika, I told you several times not to go out before telling me, and Tsurumi, if my sister gets hurt, you're dead.''

''How scary, your big sister has a brocon complex, Isn't that right, Kei-chan?''

''Yes!''

I'm sure Keika didn't understand what I was referring to, but she just nodded as she always does.

I could tell how Kawasaki was blushing and in turn clenching her fists.

''Put my sister down so I can hit you.''

''I don't want to, she feels more comfortable here, right?''

''Yes!''

''You heard her.'' I said with a hint of mockery.

''When we get to the station, I won't show any mercy.''

''Keika, will you protect me from your evil older sister?'' I said with a pleading tone.

''Sa-chan, evil.'' Keika said as a reprimand.

Keika's words were like a bucket of cold water to Kawasaki as her expression changed to one of disbeliefs. If my younger sister said that to me, it would be a big shock.

''Don't say that, Keika, you wouldn't prefer Tsurumi over me, would you?'' Kawasaki said with a puzzled expression.

''Kei-chan, do you want some sweets?''

I released one of my arms to take out a candy I bought in advance and handed it to her.

''Ra-chan, great.''

''I think you got your answer with that?'' I said with the most teasing tone I could.

As I basked in my satisfaction, Kawasaki's aura changed, at this moment I felt as if I could go to another world. And Kawasaki would be the one to send me on the trip.

''Kei-chan, since you care about me, you must care a lot more about your cute older sister, right?''

''Yes, Sa-chan is cute.''

Kawasaki went from having a scary aura to have a peaceful one.

Seriously, Keika influences Kawasaki too much, I have to take that into account.

''For now, I will forgive you.'' She said while looking a bit flushed, I guess Keika is too adorable.

For the rest of the way we talked about some random topics so we could include Keika in our conversation.

And after a few more minutes, we arrived at the station.

Once we swiped our train card, we met up with Yumiko, Yuigahama and Ebina who had already arrived.

"Raiden!''

Yumiko signaled us when she saw us arrive.

I could notice how Keika also waved her arms, she's always happy whenever she meets new people.

I guess it's more because they are our acquaintances, so her instincts tell her that those people are good too. Never underestimate children's instincts.

Once we meet, Yuigahama and Ebina were curious about Keika, so I put her down from my head so she could interact more freely.

''You must be Sakisaki's younger sister, I'm Hina.'' Ebina said cheerfully.

The day we met, Yumiko commented on how Keika gave nicknames to people she met, so Ebina didn't want to be the exception.

''Hi-chan?''

''You're as adorable as your big sister.'' Ebina started hugging Keika.

Keika really enjoys being pampered.

Even Yuigahama looked eager to hold Keika.

''Yahallo Kei-chan, I'm Yui, it's a pleasure!''

Keika stared at Yuigahama, she looked as if she was thinking about something. Since she was observing Yumiko and Yuigahama.

Both of their initials start with Yu, so it would be strange if she called them the same name.

Though her expression changed to a cheerful one once she got her answer.

''Yui-chan.''

''How I wish I had a cute little sister.'' Yuigahama started hugging Keika.

While this was happening, I could notice a cheerful expression on Kawasaki.

''You're glad that others recognize how cute Keika is, aren't you?''

''Huh? She's already cute without someone having to acknowledge it.'' Kawasaki said, but she knew she was embarrassed by how Ebina praised her.

Though her expression changed, and she walked a few meters away, then waved her hands at me.

''What do you need Kawasaki?'' I asked as I approached her.

Kawasaki has an honest smile on her face, I have a bad feeling.

I think I need to learn not to bother Kawasaki too much.

Kawasaki closed the almost non-existent distance between us and smashed her fist into my stomach.

''Don't make my sister say strange things to me.'' She said somewhat grumpily.

''You strike like a child.'' I replied. I was glad that I exerted force on my stomach to cushion the blow.

She raised an eyebrow at my response.

Maybe I shouldn't have answered that?

''You two, what the hell are you doing?''

Yumiko approached us.

''That's none of your business, Miura.''

''Huh? Do you have a problem, Sa-chan?'' The latter was said with some mockery.

If I don't do something, these two would start their bickering routine. And for today, I'd rather avoid that.

''Sa-chan, Yu-chan, the train is about to arrive, so don't waste your time.'' I said as I advanced towards the others who were watching us as if we were putting on a show.

I could tell their faces were turning slightly red from my words, that should be enough to calm them down for a while.

''Tsurumi-kun does know how to calm them down, huh.'' Ebina said with a certain mocking tone.

''It's exhausting, so I'd rather leave you in charge of that.''

''And I do it perfectly, though I still expect a reward for my hard work, you know?''

''As much as I want to reward you, I fear for my physical and mental integrity, so it should be enough that you use me as a model for your writings which in themselves are an attack on my privacy.''

''Love between men is an art, I don't see what's wrong with it.'' She said as she cocked her head to one side.

That's why I prefer to avoid talking much with Ebina since in the end our conversation ends up with me being with several guys. Sure, she can behave seriously when the situation calls for it, but currently, there's nothing to worry about.

Leaving that topic aside, I approached Yuigahama who still had Keika with her.

''Yuigahama, no matter how much you hold Keika in your arms, she won't become your little sister, so let her breathe.''

The childish behavior of the two complemented each other well, plus it was as if they were both in their own world while Yuigahama was giving her cuddles.

Yuigahama just pouted when I took Keika from her arms.

''I'm glad you're someone normal, Kei-chan.''

I started stroking her head.

''Yes!''

Keika's smile makes my sins disappear.

The train ride was smooth. We were lucky that we got on in an empty carriage, so it was a comfortable ride.

Now the normal thing would be to stand in line to buy our tickets, and since this outing is kind of an apology on my part, it falls on me to pay for everything.

But there was a reason why I agreed to invite everyone, and that is because after working that day as Pan-san, I was given several tickets as a small bonus for filling in for several shifts at those theater performances.

I had no idea about this, but that girl who overexploited me sent me this by mail, so I took the opportunity to go out with Yumiko and the others.

Why not use something that was given to me for free? Besides, they were about to expire, so it was best to use them as soon as possible.

So, we had no problem getting in.

This place as always is very striking and entertaining.

From the entrance you can appreciate the different attractions that this place has to offer. Of course, the roller coaster and those kinds of rides have an age restriction.

''This place is huge.'' Yuigahama said excitedly.

''Should I hold your hand Miura? Don't go getting lost again.'' Kawasaki said with some mockery.

Looks as if things aren't quiet. And I wanted to spend an afternoon without much hassle.

I could see Yumiko's expression change.

''Come on, girls, you can leave that for later, first we have to decide where to start.'' Ebina intervened before this got out of hand.

How I wish those two could get along for at least one day.

As I thought about it, something occurred to me.

I coughed a little to get everyone's attention.

''Yuigahama, I'm sure you must be a bit exhausted from the constant bickering the two of them have, right? Besides, we came here today to have fun, so those attitudes might be a nuisance.''

Yuigahama made a somewhat thoughtful face. ''It's not that it bothers me that much, but at least for today I think they should be at peace.'' Yuigahama gave an innocent smile as she finished saying this.

As a good friend she cares about them.

''I think the same as Yui.'' Ebina added.

I guess she realized what I wanted to achieve with this.

Both Yumiko and Kawasaki have a somewhat confused face.

''So at least for today I think they should be able to get along, but we're not even 5 minutes in, and they already started arguing.''

''It's not my fault, Kawasaki started first!''

''Huh? You were the one who started first at the station!''

Both of them stared at each other. It was something to be expected.

''That's exactly why I wanted to avoid this for the rest of the day.'' With no other option, the only thing left to do is to use the plan I came up with. I pointed at both of them. ''From now on, the one who starts with an argument will receive punishment from the other. In simple words, you are forbidden to bother each other at least for today, so promise.''

''I have no reason to do something like that.''

''I say the same thing.''

At least they can agree on something, even if they're too proud to accept it.

But I figured they wouldn't agree to this. So I had a plan B.

I called Keika who was watching the giant Pan-san handing out balloons near us.

Once Keika is next to me, I decided to put my plan into action. Who can resist a child's request?

''Kei-chan, I'm sure you want to have fun today, right?''

''Yes!''

''But it's a pity that your older sister and Yumiko only seem to want to argue all day.'' I said with a somewhat sad tone.

She began to look at the two of them with some doubt.

At Keika's doubtful look, they have just looked away from her.

''Yu-chan, Sa-chan, bad!''

Receiving a reprimand from a child must be something embarrassing, as their faces turned red.

Although for Ebina and Yuigahama, the situation is really funny, I also included myself.

''So, both of them must promise in front of Keika that they won't argue.''

''Tsurumi, that's cheating.''

Kawasaki didn't hesitate to put up resistance, but under her younger sister's gaze, she couldn't do much.

''Alright, I promise not to argue for today.'' Yumiko was the first to do so, even though she added the for today.

''Tch. It's okay, I promise not to argue.'' She was reluctant at first, but Kawasaki eventually agreed.

''I guess this should be enough, so Kei-chan why attraction do you want to start?''

Keika started leading the way as we followed her.

Both Yumiko and Kawasaki kept their promise, as they avoided arguing over any issues, even in competitive games, both managed to keep their cool to a certain extent.

We spent a few hours playing games before going to lunch.

The food in the restaurants here is delicious.

Once we finished lunch, we took a short break to browse the gift store.

We each bought a few things as souvenirs of the day. I didn't see anything new, so I have just bought some panda ears for Keika. She looks so adorable wearing them.

And since the fireworks show was still several hours away, we decided to split into two groups to continue exploring.

This was because Yumiko wanted to go on some pretty flashy rides, but Yuigahama and Ebina were not a big fan of the idea, they enjoy more quiet things. Besides, Keika being a kid could not go on these.

So Yuigahama, Ebina, Kawasaki and Keika went to the quiet rides suitable for all ages, while Yumiko and I started heading to the dangerous-looking rides.

I guess the normal thing to do would be to stay in a group, but it was obvious that Yumiko wanted to spend time alone with me, plus she took care of me while I was sick, so at least I can fulfill her whim. And since the others agreed with the idea, there was no problem at all.

Looking to my right, I can see Yumiko holding my arm as we walk.

She usually does it every time we are alone, so it was something I got used to. I would be lying if I said this made me uncomfortable, having a cute girl holding your arm is a unique experience.

Going back to being in puberty makes your thoughts get out of control, I have to be careful with that.

Since, even if I don't want to, my body is that of a teenager with all the hormones active, so having Yumiko so close to me causes me to be able to think some indecent things. And if I don't control this, the result can be obvious.

I am aware that I myself sought to put restrictions on this, after all, if we were boyfriend and girlfriend, there would be no problem with being close, kissing and such things.

But changing our relationship would be problematic since, if that were the case, I know that in the end it would end up hurting her, we would drift apart, and that's the last thing I want to do.

Having all these fears and doubts is the worst.

I guess the best thing to do would be to find a girlfriend outside of my friendships, but if I do that, I would still hurt Yumiko.

Every way I look at it, I have no way out of this. So the only thing left for me to do is to have more self-control of myself. Although Yumiko doesn't make it easy for me.

"Raiden, which attraction should we go on first?'' She is excited.

''There are multiple options to choose from, but I guess the roller coaster might be interesting.''

In my previous life I didn't have the chance to ride one of these, plus the times I came with Rumi I couldn't ride one either.

''You mean that one?'' She pointed at it.

''I think it's the only one in this place.'' I said sarcastically.

''It looks kind of dangerous.''

''Although you were the one who suggested going to this kind of attraction, or maybe you had another reason to make us split into two groups?'' I teased her.

''That's right, I wanted to spend time alone with you.'' Although her answer I didn't expect it, in fact, I never thought she could say that. Did I miss something?

''You didn't expect me to say that, did you?'' There was a certain teasing and excitement in her voice.

''I guess you caught me off-guard.'' I said while avoiding looking at her. Seriously, if Yumiko wanted to make me excited, she succeeded.

''A little revenge for what you did to me that day.'' She said as she advanced several steps ahead of me.

''Did I do something to you?'' I don't remember bothering Yumiko or doing anything specific to her. Maybe she's referring to how I cancelled our outing that day?

''It's a secret.'' She said as she put her fingers on her lips in a rather mischievous way.

My heart started beating faster as I witnessed this. Seriously, this girl will make me lose my temper. Although I'm glad the guy on the receiving end of this is me.

A very selfish thing for me to do, but there's nothing I can do about it. I really am disgusting.

But still, I don't like being teased without being able to fight back either. I have enough to do with Yukinoshita.

''Then, let's ride the roller coaster.''

After saying that, I held Yumiko by the hand to drag her towards the ride.

"You really are the worst.''

''I don't know what you're talking about.'' I said as I handed a bottle of water to Yumiko who was sitting down.

She accepted the bottle while pouting.

We had come out of the roller coaster; it was quite a fun and euphoric experience.

Feeling how everything around you was moving at high speed was incredible, the thrill at high speed while the carriage was spinning around and especially when descending made my mind go blank for a moment. In short, quite a unique experience.

But Yumiko was not a big fan of this, as she was screaming in terror every chance she got.

This made it worth standing in line for almost an hour. It was to be expected that this kind of attraction would be in high demand.

''You feel better already.''

"Whose fault, is it?

''I want to spend time alone with you, weren't those your words?'' I took it upon myself to return the joke she played on me.

''You are very vindictive.'' She said as she put the water bottle to the side of her face.

''Just a little.'' Although I can go as far as overdoing it too.

After taking a few minutes of rest, it was time to continue, even though I felt a bit guilty with Yumiko.

''So, shall we continue?'' I said as I extended my hand to Yumiko.

She put on a smile at my gesture.

''At least you can be considerate.''

Yumiko took my hand and stood up, though she didn't let go of me after that.

It's not the first time we've held hands, but it's always a pleasant experience.

My hands are bigger than Yumiko's, so holding smaller, softer hands is an experience like no other.

If anyone were to see us, they would not hesitate to consider us a couple. I'm sure Yumiko feels the same way. But after how I made her decline in her confession, she must think that these moments will remain as long as our relationship remains the same.

For a relationship, both parties must be in love with each other, a confession is the beginning of it, but if it fails, that relationship will change.

She should have reconsidered on that occasion. If I rejected her confession, I doubt very much that continuing to do this would be possible. In fact, it would be strange to be affectionate with the person who rejected you.

But if this confession did not occur, both parties would continue to behave as before, there would be no change and there would be no need to modify their way of interacting.

Of course, if we were to become boyfriend and girlfriend, our initial dynamic would not change much. In fact, it is for this very reason that I do not refuse to indulge in her whims to Yumiko.

If we continue to interact in this way, being in a relationship or not is not relevant,

Some would call me an idiot for indirectly rejecting her, but I know myself well enough, that's why I prefer our dynamic to remain the same.

After all, it's enough for me to have her friendship, aspiring to have something more is just a selfish desire on my part, and that's likely to end badly.

Maybe someday I can get over this, but for now, I think it's impossible.

"So, Yumiko, do you have any place in mind? I asked with a playful tone.

''I had enough of those things for one lifetime.'' She said as she sighed. I guess any very dynamic attraction is out of the question.

''So, shall we go to the prize area? Pick whatever you want, and I'll get it for you.''

''Anything?'' She said with a lot of excitement.

I have a bad feeling about this.

"Isn't it too late to take it back?''

''I'll take your word for it.''

We headed to the electronic game area, where you can get tickets, and with these you can redeem different prizes.

''I want this one.''

Yumiko pointed to the most expensive prize there. If I remember correctly, it's one of the enemies that Pan-san faced in one of his movies. And being a villain, it's not a very desirable object, that's why it stopped selling, and in turn became an exclusive product for collectors.

Previously, I asked Rumi if she wanted it, but she answered that Pan-san is much nicer. Besides, we have Kuro, so she's not a big fan of a stuffed cat if you can have an original one.

I rubbed my eyes just to check the number of tickets she was asking for although this number didn't change.

5000

''Don't you think that's too exaggerated?''

''You said you'd get me the one I wanted; besides, you can consider it a little payback for earlier.'' She said while winking at me.

''My wallet is going to suffer.''

I said as I could only resign myself.

I must reconsider the things I say to Yumiko.

Right now, we're in line for the Ferris wheel.

It was only a short time before the fireworks show started, so we decided that this would be the last attraction we would visit before we met up with the others.

We spent the last few hours playing to win the tickets.

But seeing Yumiko happy holding that stuffed cat. It makes me think it was worth spending all my money.

It wasn't easy to get that many tickets, even though Yumiko and I took our time playing different games, we could only get about 4000 tickets.

And when it seemed that it would be impossible, I noticed that they had added a new machine which consisted of measuring the strength of a hit.

Tickets would be given for the amount of force detected, plus there was a record already set. If that mark were broken, all the tickets from the machine would be surrendered.

So, it was obvious what I had to do. A part of me was glad to dedicate several years to training, as if all that effort and suffering were for this moment.

Although I know, it's not like that, but the idea itself can be fun.

I put in the last chip I had and prepared myself.

I could try to hit him with all my strength, but I wasn't sure if I would break the mark. Besides, I had no more money for a second attempt, so I went for the safe one.

I moved a few meters away to gain momentum.

Over the years, I had learned a little bit of everything, so if I wanted to make a better impact, it was best to use my legs.

I could see Yumiko encouraging me, so this was no time to fail. My pride as a man was at stake.

I moved forward quickly and when I was close, I lifted my right leg while spinning, then used the same right leg as an impulse for a jump to ensure good speed plus the force of the spin. As a result, I gave a perfect kick with my right leg. (Tornado kick).

When I landed, I noticed how the numbers were going up, after several seconds my score surpassed the previous record.

Maybe I should have thought this place was just for entertainment, the machine was new, plus the target audience is teenagers and parents who spend most of their time working.

The machine started voting tickets as if there was no end to it.

After several minutes the machine stopped, there were more than 1000 tickets that I managed to get, so I had no problem in redeeming the stuffed animal that Yumiko wanted, although the person in charge of the place did not look very happy.

''Raiden, it's our turn.'' Yumiko's words brought me out of my thoughts.

I advanced with Yumiko to our designated cabin. The view from the top would be amazing, or so the signs in this place assured.

Once inside, I sat across from Yumiko, but she didn't seem to like this idea, as she quickly moved to be next to me.

''You know you'll be more comfortable in front, don't you?''

''I feel more comfortable this way.'' She said with a big smile.

Being so close together just makes me think that we look like a couple.

Maybe it's just me, or I'm overthinking it, but she was much more aggressive today.

I turned my gaze to the windows; I could see the whole park from here.

Yumiko also appreciated the scenery, but she was giving me a few brief glances, as if she was waiting for me to do something.

One more whim, I guess, is not too much.

I used my left arm to put my hand on her shoulder, so I pulled her closer to me.

This act made her blush a little, but she didn't say anything, and I noticed the smile she had on her face.

If I don't calm things down, what little self-control I have will give way.

Either way you look at it, this situation screams from all sides that this is the best time to kiss her.

Also, our gazes would meet for brief seconds, but we would quickly pull it away.

''Raiden ...''

Yumiko stared at me; her face started to move closer to mine.

This atmosphere is not in my favor, it would be the normal thing to get carried away.

We spent several hours having fun with each other, a full-fledged date, and now it was just the two of us on the Ferris wheel several meters above the ground.

Getting carried away with the atmosphere is the most normal thing to do. In fact, the strange thing is that I want to oppose this.

I don't have a girlfriend to say that this is wrong, I am a teenager who is together with a beautiful girl at the moment. That girl is someone very important to me, so there is no valid reason not to accept this.

But I can't do it. She is too important to me. As contradictory as it sounds, I am the most conscious about how miserable a person I can be. Besides, even if I let myself get carried away, I'm sure that since it's Yumiko, there will be no turning back.

''Yumiko, I don't ...''

I tried to use my arms to stop her advance, but at that moment the cabin suffered a small jolt, making me fall on the seat with Yumiko on top of me.

If our faces were close before, at this moment, the distance is almost zero.

One move from either of us and we would end up kissing.

Our gazes met.

Seeing those beautiful jade-colored eyes only made my emotions run wild.

I am aware that there will be no turning back if I do it, and even though my mind tells me not to, my body doesn't think the same.

One small mistake can change your life, I am the best example of that.

Getting carried away by that emotion would bring more problems than benefits, I am aware of that.

But even so, those jade-colored eyes are mesmerizing. Besides that, by having her on top of me, my body can feel hers.

Maybe, just maybe, the best thing to do would be to let myself go.

*Ring~Ring*

When I was about to kiss her. The sound of her cell phone managed to bring me to my senses.

Yumiko was also surprised to hear her cell phone as she backed up to get away from me.

''Aren't you going to answer it?'' I said with a nonchalant tone, as if nothing had happened.

My words made Yumiko react, as within a few seconds she turned away from me with a completely red face, as if she had realized our situation.

Yumiko once turned away from me so she could answer, I was able to sit back down.

That was close, for a moment my mind stopped working. I must be more careful as my body is that of a teenager, and even if I don't want it to, sometimes it influences my thoughts. Too dangerous.

Yumiko said goodbye and put her cell phone away.

''That was Hina, she called me to remind me that we should meet them already.''

I must remember to buy something related to BL from Ebina, as she helped me indirectly.

I looked at my watch to confirm that it's already past 6 o'clock.

''Today the time went by too fast, huh.'' I said while looking at what was left of the scenery.

''By the way, Raiden, regarding what happened ...''

''They should fix these things better, so there won't be that kind of shaking, maybe I can sue them?'' I said with a carefree tone while avoiding looking at her.

''What are you saying?'' Yumiko started laughing at my words.

This is for the best, if I had let myself go, I'm sure I would have destroyed my relationship with Yumiko.

Since, sooner or later, it would be me who would hurt her. And before that happens, I'd rather stay away from her.

The emotions of a teenager are too complicated. More so when you have emotions locked deep inside your mind.

Kawasaki Pov.

Today was the day where Tsurumi invited us to go to Destiny Land with him. More because he promised Keika that he would watch the fireworks with her.

Everything went normally, although he was very annoying while carrying Keika.

Although I was able to take it out on him at the station, but instead of repenting, he just acted arrogant, making me even more annoyed, but to his luck, Miura interrupted us.

Miura is a nuisance, although we manage to hit it off a few times, the rest of the time we argue.

But it's not that I don't dislike her either, I even find these arguments entertaining.

Of course, I'm aware that there are times when our arguments get a bit out of hand and end when Ebina or Tsurumi intervenes.

But for today Tsurumi made us promise in front of Keika that we were not going to argue.

I wanted to oppose the idea as I don't like to be conditioned, but I couldn't reply when Tsurumi used my sister as a countermeasure. And since Miura was the first to agree, I could only accept.

So, we spent the morning in different games that were for children. Tsurumi was the one who proposed that the most important thing is for Keika to have fun.

We all nodded since they found Keika to be too cute, so spoiling her is a common thing.

As a big sister, I am proud of her. I know she will have no problem making friends.

At the time after that experience, I thought it would be impossible for me to get friends.

Even when I tried to be kind and helpful, it gave a negative result.

In that incident with those two, I had given up, I did everything I could to defend myself, but being electrocuted twice is no fun.

When I thought the worst, the person I considered a nuisance because of his arrogance the first time I met him, rescued me.

Although he was also paralyzed, he got up and massacred those two.

People have scary sides or sides that we don't want to show to others, so that day I knew that I had seen a side of Tsurumi that he would not show to anyone.

The expressions he put on were terrifying, as if he was enjoying that, those punches he gave were with the simple fact of making his opponent suffer.

But that act of Tsurumi's didn't scare me, I must be weird in that area, right?

After all, Tsurumi did all that to protect me, he destroyed them both physically and mentally, to make sure they would never come near us again.

In the end, he carried me in his arms to his house where we treated our wounds,

At that point I trusted him, I had never felt so close to anyone other than my family.

So, I told him the things I went through, even though he called me an idiot and gave me a little smack on the forehead.

Come to think of it, I really was an idiot for locking myself into that kind of thinking.

But if Tsurumi hadn't opened my eyes at that time, I would probably still be thinking that way.

If I told my then past self that I was now at an amusement park with my friends, she wouldn't believe me.

When I entered Sobu High, Tsurumi was my only friend. In my clasroom the other girls seemed to be afraid to approach me.

My appearance didn't help much in the realm of forming friendships, so the best part of the day was when I would meet Tsurumi for lunch.

Although some days he didn't go to the rooftop for lunch, but I didn't think much of it, as he never gave any air of having friendships, so I have just considered that those days he wanted alone time.

Thus, we spent a few months before a certain Blonde appeared.

When Miura appeared before us, I remembered that I had seen her before.

It was on that occasion when I went to Tsurumi's house to study. We bumped into each other as we walked and argued, but in the end, we continued on our way.

It was a surprise for me to learn that the two of them were friends, as Miura didn't seem to fit in with Tsurumi at all.

According to Ebina, Miura is very popular among the Sobu High boys, but still, that someone likes her would be close to Tsurumi struck me as odd.

Unsurprisingly, the first time the 3 of us met, it wasn't smooth sailing.

Miura kept giving me the backlash to anything I said. Even when I wanted to have a conversation with Tsurumi, she would butt into our conversation, but in the end, Tsurumi took it upon himself to make us shake hands and introduce us to each other.

Part of me was to upset with Tsurumi since he had never told me that he had more friends, but another part of me didn't understand why I was upset.

So, the days went by, and Miura would always interrupt our lunch, until one day she came along with Yuigahama and Ebina.

It was no wonder that she had friends, after all, at first glance one can sense that.

I thought those two would be her lackeys, as Miura reminded me of the leader of a girl group in middle school.

But it was the opposite, I couldn't have been more wrong.

Ebina told me how Yumiko helped her and even saved Yui from other girls who were just using her as a servant.

Even Miura defended them from some boys who were being very persistent with them.

Facing someone in a disadvantageous situation is something to admire. But knowing that Tsurumi was by her side, maybe she plucked up courage for that reason. After all, I know how scary it can be.

So, the days went by, and my lunch hour that consisted of lunch with Tsurumi turned into lunch with them.

At first, I was reluctant to chat, as Tsurumi for some strange reason avoided coming over.

But Ebina was too intrusive, she even gave me a nickname. I would be lying if I said that I disliked it as a whole since giving each other nicknames shows the closeness between those people.

Gradually, I still found the company of those 3 not so unpleasant. Of course, I argued with Miura, but I came to enjoy exchanging words with her.

Even now, I feel that I can call Miura my friend. I won't tell her though. I'm sure she would make fun of me.

And this thought came up the day we went to the beach.

Ebina can become too persuasive for my taste.

It all went normally, we played in the sea, in the sand and annoyed Miura, as usual.

But when Tsurumi and Ebina went to buy Ice Cream, 3 tanned and blond boys approached us, their way of talking to us was unpleasant, as if we were just an object for them.

Obviously I didn't hesitate to retort them to go away, I even got in front of Miura since she was the first one to get defensive.

Those idiots answered me in a disgusting way, and when I was about to hit them, Miura stood in front of me as if she was going to protect me, that took me by surprise.

Since she wouldn't be able to do it, it's not that I insult or underestimate her, but in terms of skill I'm better than her. Miura knows that, but she still stood in front of me, as if to say that I am under her protection.

That was the second time someone had done that for me. So I didn't know how to react to it.

And while I was thinking about it, Ebina and Tsurumi arrived. Ebina indirectly told them to leave.

It's strange, I'm suspicious of others, so the normal thing would be to keep an eye out in case those guys were going to do something. But when I saw Ebina's attitude, I relaxed completely.

But it wasn't just me, the others also opted for a carefree attitude, as if those 3 idiots were nothing more than an annoying accident.

It didn't take much thought, the reason we felt safe was because of one person.

It's scary how the presence of one person can do that.

And although one of them grabbed Tsurumi's shoulder, he quickly pulled him away and gave them a warning.

I can safely say that if those guys hadn't left, I would have to cover Yuigahama's eyes as what would happen would be too much for her.

Sensei always taught us to be moderate, even when defending ourselves, we should do so until the opponent is no longer a threat.

But that time Tsurumi did not do it, it was like watching a beast having fun with its prey.

It may be just a coincidence at that time since our situation itself was dangerous.

But when Tsurumi left and returned with a smile on his face, I could guess what had happened, and I noticed how his fists were a little red, as if he had hit something very hard.

And when I tried to ask him, he just avoided the subject and gave me a mocking smile, it was obvious that he took care of those 3 guys.

Maybe it was exaggerated to get to that point, but if we think about it, those guys offended Miura, so Tsurumi wouldn't forgive them.

From the way Miura acts with Raiden, and how sometimes Ebina whispers some things to her making Miura blush. I can tell that she likes him.

I'm sure Yuigahama and Ebina know that.

It's no wonder either because Tsurumi always complies with Miura's whims, although at first I just thought he was indulging her because she's that way.

But when I saw the two of them on a date during the festival, I knew I was right.

He likes Miura.

Miura is beautiful, she has silky blonde hair, she's sociable, she doesn't hesitate to stand up for people important to her, and, most of all, I can tell how Tsurumi enjoys spending time with her.

It wouldn't be strange for Tsurumi to fall in love with Miura.

And when he left us to look for Miura who was lost, I knew that was the case.

Although at that time a part of me was upset, but another part of me was happy.

After all, Tsurumi is still the same guy I knew. A jerk who, even if it has nothing to do with him, will go to help you.

I thought maybe one of them would confess, but going back to Sobu High everything was still the same.

Although what changed was that Tsurumi joined a club, something strange for him, but I can't read his mind either.

So, the weeks went by until a few days ago when Tsurumi was sick. He told me that a few times he gets sick, he has a really bad time, so I decided to go visit him, just to make sure he was okay.

And as expected, I ran into Miura on my way to his house.

Our talk was short until we arrived at Tsurumi's house, where we could hear his body crashing to the floor.

After entering, we could see his body on the floor, his temperature was too much, plus he seemed to be in the worst possible condition.

I took him to the couch and began to treat him.

I thought Miura would do the same, but she didn't seem to know what to do.

After giving her a few orders, we managed to stabilize him.

And since there were not enough ingredients to cook, I decided to go and buy them and leave Tsurumi in Miura's care. To my surprise, when I returned, Tsurumi was on top of her.

There was no way such a thing could happen, so she had done it.

Even being sick, she did not hesitate to get closer to him.

I wouldn't be interested in another time, but since he was sick, I wouldn't let Miura have fun with him. Of course, she denied all this by saying something as silly as Tsurumi getting up, taking off his upper clothes and then hugging Miura and taking her to the couch.

Who the hell would believe such stupidity?

So, after separating them, I started to cook something for him to replenish his energy, plus I bought some medicine and some energy drinks.

I wanted to stay with him until he woke up, but Taishi called me saying he couldn't pick up Keika, so I had to go.

Of course, I warned Miura not to do anything stupid again. To which she only answered me nervously.

The next day he went to class as usual, and we coordinated about today.

And as expected, we had an entertaining morning, after lunch we went to the souvenir store where Tsurumi bought some panda ears for Keika that looked great, I made sure to take several pictures.

When we were about to continue, Miura wanted to go to other types of games. I don't blame her, the games we went to were more child-centered, although Ebina and Yuigahama liked them.

So, we decided to split up, and as expected, Miura went along with Tsurumi.

We agreed to meet before 6 o'clock to watch the fireworks.

So together with Ebina, Yuigahama and Keika we headed to some games to make Keika feel happy. Since she was not very happy when Tsurumi left together with Miura.

We spent a few hours playing different games. I also got Keika a stuffed toy in a claw game.

Ebina and Yuigahama also exchanged some prizes with the tickets we got.

It was quite a nice afternoon between us. And as the last attraction, Keika wanted to go back on a Pan-san type attraction, which consisted of you getting on a wagon and moving through the jungle while watching the show.

Unlike Keika, I'm not a big fan of that panda.

So Yuigahama and Keika lined up to get on again.

I would have balked at this idea before, but it's good for Keika to interact with others, plus Yuigahama is a nice person, her childlike attitude goes along with Keika, so they get along wonderfully.

While they went back upstairs, I stayed with Ebina waiting for both of them to come out.

We bought some drinks and sat near the attraction to wait for them.

''And how did you appreciate today's outing Sakisaki?''

''It was entertaining, plus I had fun, and so did Keika.'' I replied as I took another sip of my drink.

''You're such a responsible big sister, I didn't expect to see that side of you.''

''Just take care of Keika, the usual big brother stuff.''

''The usual, huh. Although I seem to remember Tsurumi-kun mentioning that you also have a younger brother, as he put it, a brocon in all her glory.''

''That idiot.'' Who goes around telling others about me?

''Don't worry, SakiSaki, even if you're a brocon, you can count on me.''

''What are you trying to say?'' I said somewhat nervously.

I turned my eyes away. Ebina may look clueless on many occasions, but she's not, when she takes on a serious expression, she looks like someone else.

''You're very easy to embarrass, has anyone ever told you that?''

She just put on a smile as she said this.

When I was thinking about answering, a voice interrupted us.

''Hello, girls, would you like to join us?''

The voice belonged to a boy, he has a common appearance, he will be our age from what I see. Besides, he is accompanied with another boy.

''What do you say, do you want to go for a walk and then have something to eat?'' Added the other guy.

Unlike that time on the beach, these guys were at least more polite.

I guess Ebina caught their attention, so that's why they're asking us out.

I looked at Ebina, but she had a somewhat sinister smile on her face.

''Are you two dating? Would you like to be the models for some yaoi illustrations? Don't you mind if you're the one receiving?''

Ebina started asking them some weird questions, quickly these guys put on some puzzled expressions.

They didn't expect the girl they asked out to be a fujoshi. This term Tsurumi explained it to me as I failed to understand Ebina at first.

''Then what do they say?'' Ebina said as she approached them.

''I'm sorry, but we remembered that we had something to do.''

Those two guys quickly left; it even looks like one of them was scared.

''Don't you think you were too scary with them?''

Ebina tilted her head. ''What are you talking about SakiSaki?'' She said with an innocent tone.

''It's nothing.'' There's no point in going on when she doesn't even care.

''Maybe you wanted to date one of them?'' Ebina asked as she took a seat.

''Huh? Not even dead. Besides, I'm sure they told us that because they're interested in you.''

''I wouldn't look down on me like that if I were you, after all, you're beautiful Sakisaki.'' Ebina approached me, so I was nervous about her sudden approach.

''It's not that I do, I'm aware of it.''

''Is that so?'' She stepped back. ''As far as I know, Tsurumi-kun mentioned that you're cute.''

''He said that?''

''The day we went to the beach, he did it.'' Ebina has just looked at me as if she found my reactions amusing.

Now that I remember, he praised my swimsuit that day.

''Tsurumi is just an idiot.''

''Is that so? Actually, you have my support, SakiSaki, after all, Yumiko has a lot of advantages, but it's not too late to try.'' Ebina put an innocent smile on her face.

''What are you insinuating?'' I said with a serious tone.

''Who knows. By the way, I'll call Yumiko since the fireworks are soon. Plus, Kei-chan and Yui should be done soon.''

Ebina took out her phone and called Miura.

But her previous words had left me thinking.

There's no way Tsurumi sees me that way, since we're just friends, plus having Miura, I highly doubt anything would happen between us.

And it's not as if I want anything to happen either.

It was already 6 o'clock, so we gathered to watch the fireworks.

We were on our way to the side of the park where the fireworks look better. But right on the way there was some kind of show with various floats and stuff, so walking became difficult.

Keika is holding hands with Yumiko and Yuigahama.

Ebina is chatting with Yumiko as we walk, so Tsurumi and I are behind them.

Normally I would be the one to go with Keika, but Miura suggested it first, and Keika went towards her, so I couldn't do anything.

''What's wrong, Kawasaki, Kei-chan might change you for Yumiko?'' Tsurumi started to annoy me.

''As if that's going to happen.'' I replied,

While we were at it, the street we were supposed to cross was interrupted by the floats,

I noticed how Keika and the others had managed to cross before this.

''See what you provoke?''

''I didn't do anything.'' Tsurumi just shook his head. ''Besides, we can catch up with them after the floats pass. It's not as if we couldn't communicate, and Keika is with them, so there's no point in worrying about more.''

His carefree way of acting can become annoying. Besides, the area where we were started to get crowded by people who wanted to watch the floats.

''You really are an idiot.'' I said while sighing.

''People who call other idiots are usually idiots.'' I raised an eyebrow at his words.

I started to advance towards him.'' Tsurumi, if you want me to hit you...''

''Excuse me.''

I felt someone pushing me as that person tried to push his way through the crowd. And since I was on my way to Tsurumi at that moment, I was pushed towards him.

My arms acted on instinct, and I tried to hold on to him. But because of how close we were, my arms went around his neck.

Everything happened so fast that my brain stopped working.

I could feel a warm sensation on my lips.

My eyes focused on Tsurumi's; his surprised expression could be reflected in them.

I felt as if time had stopped.

Why can I see Tsurumi so close to me? Why does he have that expression on his face? Why do my lips feel warm?

I didn't know how much time had passed, but neither of us reacted.

More time passed, the more my mind couldn't process what had happened.

The sensation on my lips was something totally new, something I had never felt before.

But as if it all made sense, my mind connected all the dots.

I quickly put my hands on his shoulders to generate the strength to pull away from him, as I felt I couldn't do it on my own.

As we stood apart, I could understand.

We had kissed by accident.

I felt my face turn red at the memory.

I brought my fingers to my lips, I could still feel that strange sensation, my eyes instinctively fixed on Tsurumi as if there was still a part of me that wanted to deny what had happened.

But there was no way to deny it. My mind knew, my body knew. Besides, I could feel a sweetness that felt familiar.

My mind is in chaos, but I remembered the taste of Max caffe, his favorite drink.

While my mind didn't know how to react or what to do, Tsurumi approached me and grabbed my waist, pulling me closer to him, his face is inches away from mine.

''Wh...'' Even though I tried to speak, I couldn't even finish saying a word.

''Come on, Kawasaki, if you want a kiss, you could have asked me, you know, an accidental kiss doesn't count as one.'' Tsurumi said this as if it was nothing, for some reason this started to annoy me. ''Things are asked for, doing it that way doesn't make sense.''

The emotions I had with me turned to anger.

My mind became clear, and there was only one thought.

I smashed my fist with all my might against his stomach.

''Ghr!''

Tsurumi released his grip on me and backed up a few steps while holding his stomach.

''You really are an idiot.'' I said with some annoyance in my voice.

But a part of me felt joyful since, as he said, a kiss by accident doesn't count as one. And it's not as if I wanted to kiss him.

With that in mind, I tried to calm the emotions that were still inside me.

But I know that's not enough since that emotion is still in my mind as if I wanted it to happen again.

Besides, I felt that I had done something wrong. And even though I try to forget it, I know it's impossible.

Raiden Pov.

The fireworks were spectacular, and just as I promised Keika, this time I witnessed them together with her.

After watching them, our day was over.

We left Destiny Land and took a train to our homes.

Yumiko, Ebina and Yuigahama got off first, as their home addresses are one station before mine and Kawasaki.

The normal thing would have been to accompany Yumiko, but at this point there was something I had to do.

Once we arrived at our station, we proceeded to get off, Keika was on my shoulders, so I had to accompany her to her house before going to mine.

Keika fell asleep once the fireworks were over, and luckily she woke up when we arrived at our station.

It's amazing how Keika is still full of energy, kids nowadays are more energetic.

But apart from Keika pointing out a few things, the walk was silent.

I can't blame Kawasaki for that.

When we arrived at their house, Kawasaki opened the door, so I put Keika down and she quickly went inside, she wanted to show them the gifts they had bought Taishi.

''Thanks for today, Keika had a lot of fun.''

''It's nothing, besides, I had promised her.''

Although we exchanged words with each other, there was a a certain air of awkwardness.

''Then, I'll see you at school, Tsurumi.'' Her tone was somewhat monotone.

Kawasaki turned around to head home.

I'm known for being a calm person, of course sometimes I'm not, so the moment Kawasaki kissed me, my mind went into chaos.

I never expected that something like this could happen, an accidental kiss, seriously, what kind of romantic comedy I'm living.

But there's no point in thinking about it.

''Kawasaki.''

She stopped when she heard her name and turned back to me.

I know some things are better not to do, but since it happened, my mind can't calm down, even if I try to control myself, I have a limit, this teenage body doesn't help with this.

She did it first, so I simply can't stay without giving it back.

At that moment I just said the first stupid thing that came to mind to calm the situation, and it worked as I could notice how her expression went back to the one that she usually has.

But, even so, I'm sure she will still keep in mind what happened for a while, our dynamic could change. So, the best thing to do is just to be even.

Besides, it will help me get this out of my head, but still, I know I'll have to take other steps about it.

I grabbed Kawasaki's arm and pulled her to me. My other arm went around her waist.

Before she could react, I placed my lips on hers, giving her a warm and tender kiss on the lips. Unlike the previous one, this one was shorter.

At that moment the feeling I had was indescribable, after all, it was my first kiss.

But this sensation was just as good as the previous one.

I have no experience in this, so I have just repeated what had happened at the amusement park.

After a few seconds, I pulled away from her.

Her face did not change, as if she could not process what had happened. It is amusing to see her expression of disbelief.

"With this we are both on the same terms, so see you at school, Kawasaki." I said with a mocking tone and started walking towards my house.

As if it was just me returning the kiss she gave me at that moment.

Kawasaki might think that kiss was her fault, I can even guess that she thinks I like Yumiko, so doing that would have certain repercussions. But by treating it like it was no big deal, it would make any guilt she has about it disappear.

Since it happened, there was no way to solve this without bringing about some change, but I decided to go for the one that would bring the least trouble.

I could hear Kawasaki make a strange sound. I guess she has already processed what happened.

On Monday the first thing he'll do is to beat me up. Even if I earn it.

But that's okay, besides, I guess I should get someone. Since I doubt very much that now being with Yumiko or Kawasaki, my self-control is going to be enough.

With these thoughts, I started walking home.