I'll be honest, I forgot the first part of this chapter. I only wrote, 'Hikigaya touch the bare breast, Yukino'. I wrote the rest first before I returned the first part. My ideal process is anything he does to Reina, he did it first with Yukino. I edited this chapter with Google Gemini, so the content for Hikigaya and Yukino touching each other was short and lacking. Stupid content policy.
Hikigaya Hachiman shifted on his feet, gazing up at the familiar building before him. Yukinoshita Yukino's apartment loomed quietly in the evening light, unchanged yet somehow different tonight. They hadn't used her place in months—most of their time together now took place under the formal, watchful eyes of her family at their grand mansion. That space, pristine and polished, bore a weight of history, making each encounter feel both comforting and daunting.
But tonight, it was just them. Here, with no one watching.
He raised his hand, hesitating before finally pressing the buzzer. Moments later, the door clicked open, and Yukino's voice, quiet yet undeniably warm, floated through. "You're here."
Stepping inside, Hikigaya took a slow breath, his eyes adjusting to the dimly lit hallway. She stood there, arms folded casually as she leaned against the doorframe, her expression softening. His heart skipped as he met her eyes—sharp yet tender like she'd been waiting too long for this.
"You're late," Yukinoshita noted, a slight smile tugging at her lips.
"Right, sorry. It's been a while since I had to be… punctual," he muttered, scratching the back of his neck as he stepped in, slightly awkward.
"Is that so?" she replied, amusement lacing her tone. She shut the door behind him, and in the sudden quiet, it felt as if every unspoken word between them hung in the air. "I'll have to punish you."
Hikigaya's eyebrow twitched at her words, and he sighed, well aware of Yukino's unique sense of "punishment."
"Punish me, huh?" he murmured, stepping out of his shoes and lining them up beside hers. "For what, exactly? Being a few minutes late or…?"
Yukinoshita crossed her arms, giving him a raised brow. "For continuously evading proper manners." She gestured to his tie, which, as usual, hung slightly askew. "And for that excuse of a tie," she added with a faint smirk.
He glanced down at it, sighing. "I thought you liked the rugged, carefree look."
"Hardly," she replied, her tone perfectly deadpan. But as she stepped closer, he noticed a hint of amusement in her eyes. Her hand reached out, and before he could object, she adjusted his tie with precise, delicate movements, her fingers brushing against his collar.
He swallowed, watching her as she worked. "You know, it's almost as if you enjoy finding reasons to 'punish' me."
She straightened the knot, letting her hands fall back to her sides. "If you see it that way, maybe I should be stricter with you." Her voice softened as she looked at him intently, the teasing glint giving way to something quieter, more thoughtful.
He shifted his gaze, feeling the familiar mix of anxiety and calm she so effortlessly stirred within him. "Well," he said finally, "I guess I'll just have to try harder next time."
In Yukino's former bedroom, a soft glow from the bedside lamp cast a gentle warmth. Hikigaya sat beside her, his hands hovering awkwardly above her back, trying to calm his nerves. Yukinoshita lay on her stomach, arms folded beneath her head, a slight flush on her cheeks matching his. Despite her relaxed posture, her tone was sharp when she spoke.
"Don't get distracted," she murmured, a smirk audible. "This is still a punishment, remember?"
Hikigaya swallowed hard, nodding as he placed his hands on her bare shoulders. A shiver ran through him as he felt her warmth beneath his hands. Taking a deep breath, he pressed his fingers along her shoulders, working his way down with careful, deliberate movements.
Yukino's reaction was subtle at first—a soft exhale here, a slight shift of her shoulders there. But as his hands began tracing gentle circles, she made a small, involuntary sound, something between a sigh and a hum. She is moaning, right? He tried his best to ignore it, though the heat rising in his cheeks wasn't helping.
"Well, for a punishment, this feels an awful lot like… a reward," he managed, trying to sound casual. But Yukinoshita didn't respond; her breathing softened, her body relaxing further under his touch.
"Focus," she murmured, though her voice held less of its usual edge now. He didn't dare look away, concentrating on getting this "punishment" exactly right.
Yukinoshita sat up, her hair cascading around her shoulders like silk. As she lifted her arms to cover her bare breast, Hikigaya's heart raced in a way he hadn't anticipated. Her eyes sparkled with mischief, aware of the effect she had on him.
"Five seconds," she declared, her tone both playful and commanding. "You have to gaze at my beautiful chest."
"Wait! That doesn't sound like a reward at all!" Hikigaya protested, his voice tinged with surprise and indignation. "I thought I did a great job with the massage!"
Yukino's lips curled into a small smirk, and without missing a beat, she lowered her arms, catching him completely off guard. He felt his breath hitch, her confidence amplifying the moment as her gaze held him captive.
"See? Much better," she said, clearly enjoying the effect.
He blinked, eyes widening as Yukinoshita casually covered herself again, that infuriating smirk still playing on her lips. "You—this isn't fair!" he muttered, cheeks burning.
"Exactly," she replied lightly, a hint of challenge in her eyes. "You did well, but that doesn't mean you're off the hook."
"Yukino, this doesn't feel like a punishment at all," he mumbled, flustered and frustrated.
She leaned in, her voice softening. "Maybe that's the point, Hachiman." The way she said his name made it feel heavy and significant. "It's all about perspective."
Settling between his legs, she rested her back against his chest, her warmth enveloping him entirely.
"Hachiman, you can touch my breast," Yukinoshita mentioned, giving Hikigaya a smirk.
Hikigaya slowly lifted his hands. It was a gentle touch before he cupped Yukino's chest. A man that lost his reason, and started to grope her chest.
'They are soft. Who says they feel like a marshmallow? Yukino's breasts felt nice and warm, they were nothing like marshmallows. They are erected.' Hikigaya continued to massage and grope Yukino's breast.
Hikigaya hesitated, his hands lingering in place, feeling the residual warmth on his palms. The moment felt surreal—a mix of intimacy and playful banter that was thrilling and nerve-wracking.
As Yukinoshita stood up and began dressing, her movements fluid and graceful, she glanced back at him. "Well, Hikigaya, how was the punishment?" she asked, catching his eye with a slight smile.
He nodded, still a bit dazed. "It was… effective," he managed, trying to keep his voice steady despite the warmth lingering in his cheeks. Yukino's smile widened, a genuine lightness breaking through her usual composure.
"Then I have a small favor to ask you," she said, her tone shifting back to seriousness. Hikigaya raised an eyebrow, intrigued, and nodded, curious to hear what she had in mind.
"I need you to help me tidy up a bit," she said, gesturing around the apartment.
Without another word, Hikigaya set to work, grabbing a small hand-broom to start sweeping the living room. As he worked, he couldn't shake the feeling that he'd been tricked, and a rueful smile crept onto his face. "I was played like a fool," he remarked, glancing at Yukinoshita, who leaned against the wall with an infuriatingly amused expression. A regular broom stood next to her.
"You missed a spot," she chimed in, pointing at a corner he'd overlooked.
"Where?" he replied, feigning ignorance as he brushed the dust into a pile. Her playful tone was infectious, making it hard for him to feel frustrated.
"Right there," she insisted, a smirk dancing on her lips.
After finishing the living room, he moved to the bathroom, grabbing a cloth to clean the tiles and the bathtub. As he scrubbed, he heard Yukinoshita moving around in the kitchen, the faint clinking of dishes mingling with the aroma of something delicious.
"What are you making?" he called over his shoulder.
"Just a small snack," she replied, her voice warm and inviting. "I figured after all your hard work, you'd deserve a little reward. I thought I could pay for your service by letting have a nice and slow feel of my backside, around my buttocks."
"Seems like I'm getting a lot of rewards today," Hikigaya muttered, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth as he scrubbed the last stubborn spot in the tub. He felt lighter, more at ease.
Reina Yuki's POV:
I stood before the ornate mirror in my elegantly decorated room, bathed in a soft, filtered light that cast everything in a muted, dreamlike glow. The vanity was meticulously arranged with an array of makeup tools, each item carefully placed, their polished surfaces catching the light like scattered gems.
My bare skin, smooth and pale, stood in striking contrast against the deeper hues of the kimono I was about to wear. With a practiced hand, I added the final touches of makeup, my light purple eyes holding steady in the mirror. The lipstick—a deep, rich red—was chosen to complement not only my complexion but also the understated elegance of my attire. Each stroke was deliberate, every detail a reflection of the poise I was known for.
Once satisfied, I returned the lipstick to the vanity, my fingers lingering over its sleek, cool surface before I rose, moving with a familiar, poised grace. My attention turned to the kimono waiting on a nearby chair, a masterpiece of traditional design in shades of white and blue, adorned with a delicate floral pattern. It was an image of quiet sophistication, each petal woven into the fabric with care, echoing the grace I wished to convey.
Slipping my arms into the kimono, I felt the coolness of the silk glide over my skin, a gentle reminder of the evening's anticipation. I adjusted the nagajuban beneath, aligning each layer perfectly, the soft rustle of fabric filling the quiet room. As I tied the blue obi around my waist, the knot was firm yet graceful, securing everything in place. Every touch to my attire was intentional, each layer a testament to the preparation I had devoted to this moment.
Finally, I slipped on my blue geta, each fitted with a small bell, creating a soft chime as I crossed the room. The familiar click of the geta against the floor and the gentle ring of the bells brought the ensemble to life, a subtle soundtrack to the presence I intended to bring tonight. I completed the look with snug, pristine tabi socks, lending comfort to the traditional elegance I wore.
Taking one last look in the mirror, I felt satisfaction. The floral pattern, the soft chiming of the bells, the flawless alignment of each element—they combined to create a vision that was both timeless and uniquely mine. Tonight, I wasn't just attending the local shrine festival; I was making an entrance.
My gaze lingered a moment longer on my reflection. The figure looking back was exactly as I intended: confident, elegant, and ready to command attention with every graceful step.
o000
I arrived at the entrance of the spring festival, my eyes alight with anticipation. Vibrant lanterns illuminated the night, casting a warm, festive glow over the bustling streets. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of food stalls—yakitori, takoyaki, and sugary treats mingling in the atmosphere. Children's laughter and the occasional jingle of festival music blended into a cheerful harmony, filling the night with a celebration.
My heart fluttered as I took in the scene, but the thrill dimmed when I noticed Hayama Hayato across the way. He stood surrounded by a group of young women, their laughter and animated chatter forming a lively bubble that felt, somehow, out of place in the evening I had carefully envisioned. Dressed in casual festival attire, they radiated a carefree energy that clashed with my mood.
As I moved toward them, my steps slowed, the initial excitement tightening into a knot of frustration. Tonight had been meticulously planned—a perfect evening for just the two of us. Now, watching Hayama with this crowd, I felt that vision slipping further away.
Before I could speak, Hayama noticed me and approached, his expression apologetic. "Reina, I'm really sorry," he said sincerely. "This was a family obligation, and I didn't realize they'd all be tagging along."
My eyes narrowed slightly, my disappointment barely concealed behind a polite smile. "I see," I replied coolly, a hint of frustration slipping into my tone. For a moment, I hoped the others might take the hint and drift away, giving us the space I'd envisioned for tonight.
Sensing the tension, the women exchanged uncertain glances. Their cheerful demeanor wavered as they caught sight of the subtle shift in Hayama's attention and my composed, yet unmistakably displeased, expression. One by one, they stepped back, awkwardly disengaging with smiles that faded into polite nods.
I took a slow, steadying breath, reminding myself of the elegance and control I prided myself on. Adjusting my kimono with a flick of my fingers, I softened my expression. "Shall we?" I asked, gesturing toward the brightly lit path winding through the heart of the festival. Determined to salvage the evening, I hoped the lively spirit of the festival could still restore some of the magic I had envisioned.
My earlier disappointment gave way to a quiet resolve, my light purple eyes reflecting the warm glow of the lanterns as I allowed myself to ease back into the night's atmosphere. The evening might not have started as planned, but I would make sure it ended on my terms, with the grace and elegance I carried like a second skin.
0o00
My mood had soured as the night wore on. What was meant to be a perfect date had been ruined, my hopes dashed by the uninvited presence of the women surrounding Hayama. To make matters worse, they weren't even from Sobu High—outsiders who had no idea Hayama and I were dating. It wasn't just their presence that grated on me; it was their behavior. They clung to Hayama, laughing loudly and acting far too familiar, preventing me from getting close. Their intrusive demeanor, cutting me off at every turn, felt like a deliberate slight.
Frustration bubbled beneath the surface as I clenched my hands, fighting to maintain my composure. I exchanged brief, cold glances with the women, but they seemed oblivious to my silent warnings. Hayama, for all his usual charm and sensitivity, didn't seem to notice my growing irritation. His focus was on trying to keep the peace and managing the unwanted guests.
It was only a matter of time before things went from bad to worse. In the chaos of the crowded festival, I found myself being pushed further and further away from Hayama. The noise of the crowd, the jostling bodies, and the relentless flow of people heading toward the food stalls made it impossible to keep pace with him. One moment, I was trying to weave through the crowd to stand by his side, and the next, he was gone—swallowed by the sea of festival-goers.
I stopped amidst the bustling throng and let out a sigh of resignation. My heart sank, the weight of disappointment settling heavily in my chest. This night, which had once held so much promise, was completely derailed.
Without a second thought, I turned my back on the chaos of the festival and made my way toward the temple at the top of the hill, where the fireworks would look perfect from above. The long stone stairway to the shrine beckoned me, and I began to ascend, my footsteps soft and measured. The higher I climbed, the more the sounds of the festival below faded into the background, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
The cool night breeze whispered through the trees, carrying the faint scent of incense from the temple grounds. My ornate kimono swayed with each step, the soft chime of my geta's bells offering a quiet counterpoint to the solitude enveloping me.
The higher I climbed, the more I tried to calm my mind, but the sting of disappointment lingered. I had come here expecting a night of romance, but now, I would watch the fireworks alone.
The temple drew closer, a peaceful escape from the frenetic energy below. I told myself I'd make the best of it, allowing the beauty of the night and the fireworks to wash away the frustration that had built up over the evening. Maybe, just maybe, I could still find some solace in the quiet majesty of the sky and the distant crackle of fireworks.
As I neared the halfway point of the stairway, I paused, lifting my gaze to the sky. The first fireworks burst in the distance, painting the dark canvas with brilliant hues of red, gold, and violet. I let out a soft sigh, my disappointment settling deep inside me. But still, I continued my ascent, determined to reach the temple at the top.
I had made it halfway up the stairs when it happened. In a moment of distraction, my foot slipped. I braced for the inevitable, the cold, unforgiving stone steps rushing up to meet me—but instead, I was caught.
Warmth. Softness. Before I could fully process what had happened, I realized I wasn't on the ground but cradled in someone's arms. My heart skipped a beat as I blinked, disoriented. Slowly, I looked up.
And there he was—Hikigaya Hachiman, of all people. His dull, fish-like eyes stared back at me with that usual aloof expression. Isn't this... Hikigaya from my class? I thought, still stunned. Did he just use his body to catch me?
A deep sigh escaped me as I tried to regain my bearings. I started to relax, thankful for not crashing down the stairs, I felt something press against my chest. My eyes darted downward in shock. His hand was inside my kimono, resting directly on my bare breast.
My mind went blank. My heart raced. He had saved me from falling, but this? This was something else entirely.
Before I could fully process the situation, I felt it—his hand shifted slightly, his fingers pinching a sensitive spot. He took a nice pinch of my nipple.
"Can you stop fondling my boob?" I said, my voice calm but laced with irritation.
Hikigaya blinked, as though his brain was still catching up with the situation. His gaze dropped to where his hand remained awkwardly inside my kimono. In typical Hikigaya fashion, instead of pulling away in panic or embarrassment, he gave my chest a quick, almost indifferent squeeze, as though confirming that, yes, this was happening, before hastily withdrawing his hand.
"I... uh, I'm sorry," he stammered, his face still unreadable. "I'm Hikigaya Hachiman. I was just looking for a quiet spot to watch the fireworks, and when I saw you lose your balance... I just reacted."
His explanation hung in the air, leaving me momentarily speechless. I exhaled slowly, a mixture of exasperation and disbelief swirling inside me. Turning away from him, I adjusted my kimono, smoothing the fabric with shaky hands to ensure everything was back in place. A few moments passed before I turned back around, my face a perfect mask of composure.
"Thank you for catching me," I said, my tone much calmer now, though I couldn't entirely mask the lingering frustration.
Hikigaya scratched the back of his head awkwardly, his usual indifference faltering just slightly. "Yeah… no problem."
We stood in silence for a beat, the distant crackle of fireworks filling the air. Despite the absurdity of the situation, I couldn't help but feel a strange sense of resignation. Hikigaya had a way of complicating even the simplest moments.
With one last glance at him, I began climbing the remaining steps toward the temple. My mind was already moving past the awkward encounter, but as I walked, I couldn't shake the feeling that the night had taken an unexpected turn—one I hadn't anticipated, and yet, somehow, it felt like exactly the kind of complication I should have expected from Hikigaya.
00o0
As we continued up the stairway, the awkwardness of our earlier encounter shifted into something lighter—a banter that felt almost natural, despite the lingering tension between us. I, still a little irked, couldn't resist poking fun at him.
"You know," I began, my voice teasing yet sharp, "you should learn to treat women with more respect. Grabbing them so inappropriately? Not very gentlemanly of you, Hikigaya."
Hikigaya rolled his eyes, his usual deadpan expression returning. "It was an accident, Reina. You can't expect me to just let you fall. It's called reflexes."
"Reflexes?" I raised an eyebrow, a sly smirk tugging at the corners of my lips. "I didn't know 'reflexes' involved groping someone. Must be a strange part of your personality."
"I saved you from tumbling down a flight of stairs," he countered, unfazed by my jabs. "I didn't exactly have time to take etiquette lessons mid-fall."
I thought I had him cornered. I was about to deliver another verbal blow, confident was winning this little battle of wits, when something unexpected happened. Hikigaya's expression shifted—just slightly, but enough to catch my attention—and before I could react, his hand reached out and firmly grasped mine.
My breath caught in my throat as he gently pulled me off the path into a small grove of trees. The sounds of the festival grew faint as we walked hand in hand, my heartbeat quickening with each step. What is he doing? My nerves, usually composed, tingled with uncertainty and curiosity. I rarely felt nervous, but Hikigaya had a way of throwing me off balance, and I couldn't quite predict what he was about to do next.
We emerged into a small clearing, where a bench sat beneath the shadows of the trees, partially hidden from view. The secluded spot, bathed in the soft glow of distant lanterns, made the moment feel oddly intimate. Hikigaya guided me to the bench, his grip was still firm but not forceful.
"Take a seat," he said, his tone flat.
I hesitated, about to protest, but before I could say anything, Hikigaya had already knelt before me, lifting my right foot with surprising care. Caught off guard, I stumbled slightly and landed ungracefully on the bench, my usual composure crumbling.
"H-Hey!" I protested, but Hikigaya didn't seem to hear. He had already removed my tabi sock, his fingers gently inspecting my foot. My heart raced, my initial annoyance fading into confusion. His touch was careful, and measured, but the situation felt completely out of the ordinary.
"I see," Hikigaya muttered, his gaze focused intently on my foot. "It's not strained. That's good. I didn't want you to be hurt."
I blinked, unsure how to react. His blunt sincerity threw me off balance again. I watched him, still processing this unexpected turn of events, as he gently placed my foot on his abdomen, his grip firm yet oddly comforting.
For the first time that night, I found myself at a loss for words. My sharp tongue, always quick with playful insults and jabs, fell silent. I felt the warmth of his body against my foot, the steady rise and fall of his breathing as he looked up at me with those same unreadable, dead fish eyes.
Hikigaya wasn't exactly the Prince Charming type. Far from it. But in this bizarre moment, there was something undeniably sincere about him—something that made me feel... vulnerable. And despite the strange intimacy of it all, I couldn't bring myself to pull away.
"Well, aren't you full of surprises…" I finally managed, my voice softer now, though still carrying a trace of my usual sarcasm.
Hikigaya stood up, brushing the dirt from his knee, his expression unchanged. "Like I said, I just reacted. No big deal."
I watched him for a moment longer, my mind racing to catch up with my emotions. I wasn't sure what to make of the situation or how to respond to his unexpected concern. But one thing was clear: Tonight was turning into an evening I wouldn't soon forget.
000o
The sky erupted in brilliant colors as fireworks lit up the night, painting vibrant patterns against the dark horizon. We sat side by side, silently watching the display, the tension between us fading as the bursts of light held our attention. It was an oddly comfortable moment, where I didn't feel the need to fill the silence with teasing remarks or playful jabs.
As the final firework fizzled out, leaving behind a wisp of smoke, I leaned back, a playful smirk tugging at my lips. The familiar urge to tease returned, and I couldn't resist.
"Now then, Hikigaya," I began, my voice light with amusement, "How about I reward you for saving me from falling down a flight of stairs? How about—"
Before I could finish, he cut me off with his usual dry tone. "A kiss? I'm sure no one would be happy about that, least of all me."
My eyebrows shot up in surprise. His blunt dismissal caught me off guard more than I cared to admit. I was used to playful banter, sure, but this? This stung in a way I hadn't expected.
Many guys would kill to be in your position, Hikigaya, I thought bitterly. Getting a kiss from someone like me. The thought made my chest tighten, a wave of annoyance creeping in. I had always imagined my first kiss with someone like Hayama, not with... well, someone like Hikigaya.
But tonight was different. Hayama was busy, and here I was, offering my flirtation to a guy who barely seemed to care. He waved it off like it was nothing.
Seemingly oblivious to my frustration, Hikigaya brushed the dirt from his pants. "Let's get you home before you start plotting my demise," he said, his usual indifference settling back into place.
I let out an exasperated sigh and crossed my arms. My irritation deepened when he gently helped me slip my tabi socks back on, his touch light but practical. Once we were ready, we began walking through the quiet streets toward my house, the occasional comment or jab punctuating the silence.
When we finally reached my doorstep, I felt a pang of loneliness. The house was dark and empty—my family wasn't home. I turned to Hikigaya, half-expecting him to walk away without a second thought.
"Do you want to come in?" I asked, already bracing for his usual, predictable response.
Hikigaya smirked and placed a hand theatrically over his chest. "No thanks. I fear for my safety. You might attack me."
I rolled my eyes, but despite myself, a smile tugged at my lips. Reaching out, I grabbed his arm and pulled him toward the door with a playful tug. "Oh, please. You're not getting off that easily."
As he stumbled slightly, caught off guard by my forceful gesture, I caught a glimpse of his usual, unreadable expression softening just a little. There was something oddly endearing about how he didn't quite know how to handle me. Despite his gruff, dismissive nature, it almost felt like he was letting his guard down—just enough for me to see. It was frustrating, but it was also kind of... refreshing.
I could feel his awkwardness as we stepped inside, but as the door clicked shut behind us, I couldn't shake the feeling that, maybe, just maybe, this night was turning into something more unexpected than I had anticipated.
I led him to my bedroom, watching as he awkwardly sat on the floor, clearly uncomfortable in this unfamiliar space. It was strange to see him out of his usual element—Hikigaya was always so composed, so indifferent, but here, he seemed out of place, unsure of what to do next. I faced my closet and picked out a simple black nightgown with delicate floral embroidery. The straps were thin, barely enough to support my breasts, and I paired them with short shorts for modesty's sake.
Just as I was about to undress, a cough broke the silence, yanking me back to reality. I froze, suddenly aware that he was still there, watching me. The reminder of his presence made my face flush with rare embarrassment. What was I thinking? I scolded myself, feeling my heart race in response.
I quickly stepped out of the room, trying to calm the heat creeping up my cheeks. After a moment, I took a deep breath, changed into the nightgown, and returned to the room with my usual composure. Hikigaya was still sitting on the floor, his expression as unreadable as ever.
I stood before him, crossing my arms and giving him a stern look. "Don't make any smart comments," I warned, though my voice still carried a faint trace of the embarrassment I was trying to shake off.
Hikigaya glanced up at me, and for the first time that night, I caught the faintest twitch of a smirk on his lips. "Wouldn't dream of it."
I sighed, letting my shoulders relax. The tension between us, though still present, felt different now. It wasn't the usual talk I shared with Hayama. No, this was something else—something more... unpredictable.
I sat on the edge of my bed, my gaze still on him, wondering what to do next. The night had taken so many unexpected turns, and here I was, alone in my room with Hikigaya—an unexpected presence in an intimate space. The silence between us felt heavy, charged in a way that was both unsettling and... intriguing.
"So," I began, trying to break the silence, "you're not afraid of me?"
Hikigaya met my gaze, his expression as deadpan as ever. "I've survived worse."
I raised an eyebrow, a small smile tugging at my lips despite myself. "Is that so?"
The words hung in the air, and for a moment, neither of us spoke. The tension was palpable—was it the absurdity of the situation? The frustration I still felt from the ruined night? Or was it something else entirely?
The awkward silence lingered for a few moments, making the air in my bedroom feel heavier than usual. I never thought I'd find myself in this situation—bringing a boy into my room, let alone someone like Hikigaya. It was strange, and yet, here we were. Hikigaya, for his part, seemed unusually composed, though I couldn't help but notice his gaze flicker occasionally toward my bare legs peeking out from beneath my nightgown.
Fearing he might get caught staring, Hikigaya cleared his throat and quickly spoke up. "So, uh… how about a game or something?"
I shook my head, still processing how casually he seemed. "I don't have any games, or like, modern video games," I admitted, feeling a little awkward.
Hikigaya smirked, pulling out his phone with a knowing look. "Don't worry, there are plenty of games we can play on this." He opened an app store and passed me his phone.
Before long, we found ourselves locked in a fierce 'Mortal Kombat' competition. My competitive side kicked in as I furiously tapped on the screen, determined to beat him. But after several rounds, it was clear he had the upper hand.
"Come on, Reina, is that all you've got?" he teased, his usual deadpan tone tinged with amusement.
My pride wouldn't allow me to lose so easily, so I decided to take drastic measures. As our in-game characters squared off in another round, I bumped my shoulder into his, knocking him off balance. When that didn't work, I lightly kicked his leg, throwing him off just as he was about to land the final blow.
"Hey! Cheating now, are we?" Hikigaya grumbled, though there was a faint smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.
"All's fair in love and war," I shot back with a mischievous grin.
After a few more rounds, with me occasionally using playful distractions to gain the upper hand, we finally stopped, exhausted from our impromptu gaming session. I set the phone down, my breath a little ragged from the intensity—and maybe from my constant attempts at sabotaging Hikigaya.
That's when I realized just how close we were. Our shoulders were touching, and my leg was resting over his. My heart skipped a beat as a flush crept up my cheeks. I hadn't even noticed how physically close we had gotten during our match.
Hikigaya, seemingly oblivious to my sudden awareness, was focused on catching his breath. But I couldn't shake the feeling of his warmth next to mine. My mind raced, torn between wanting to pull away or staying in the comfortable proximity we now shared.
For once, my usual teasing demeanor faltered, replaced by a soft blush and a quiet vulnerability. I glanced sideways at Hikigaya, uncertain what to say or do next. The silence felt different now—charged with a tension I hadn't expected.
00o0
I led Hikigaya to the entrance of my home, the soft sound of our footsteps echoing through the quiet hallway. It wasn't until we reached the genkan that I realized, with a start, that somewhere along the way, I had intertwined my fingers with his. The way our hands fit together so naturally caught me off guard, and I briefly wondered why I hadn't pulled away. I had never really thought much about Hikigaya before tonight, but now... I couldn't deny that I'd had fun with him.
When we reached the genkan, Hikigaya bent down to slip his shoes back on. I stood nearby, still holding his hand until he finished and rose. For a moment, we stood there in an oddly tense stillness. The air between us felt heavier, charged with unspoken words.
Trying to break the silence, Hikigaya smirked, his usual sarcasm bubbling to the surface. "So, how about that kiss?"
I raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in my eyes. "I thought you didn't want to be kissed by me," I teased, my voice light and playful.
Hikigaya opened his mouth, likely preparing one of his usual snarky responses, but before he could speak, I leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his lips.
He froze, his detached demeanor cracking, his eyes widening slightly. The kiss was quick, but the warmth lingered on his skin.
"Good night, Hikigaya," I whispered, stepping back with a small, satisfied smile tugging at my lips.
For a brief second, he seemed speechless, but he quickly recovered, his voice quiet, almost thoughtful. "Yeah… good night."
Hikigaya turned and opened the door, stepping out into the cool night air. I watched him walk down the path, his figure briefly illuminated by the moonlight before disappearing into the shadows.
The door clicked shut behind him, and I found myself smiling. Tonight had been so unexpected. I hadn't planned on having Hikigaya over, let alone enjoying his company, but something about the evening left me feeling… different. My heart still fluttered from the kiss, and I couldn't help but wonder what would happen next.
I returned to my room, the silence of the house wrapping around me like a warm blanket. I closed the door behind me and sat down on my bed, the events of the night swirling in my mind. My fingers brushed absently over my phone on the nightstand, and with a sigh, I unlocked it.
The screen lit up, revealing several missed calls and messages from Hayama. I ignored. I stared at them, feeling a pang of guilt. After all, the evening had started as a date with him—my boyfriend. But everything had changed so quickly. Instead of responding to his many questions, I simply typed, "I'm home and safe." It was all I could manage for now.
After sending the message, my finger hovered over the app Hikigaya and I had used to play 'Mortal Kombat.' A small smile tugged at my lips as I opened it and saw his game ID still listed from our earlier match. It was silly, but the thought that this was my only direct way of contacting him amused me. It felt like a secret connection, a tiny thread that linked us together.
I set my phone beside me and pulled my knees up to my chest, hugging them tightly as I fell onto my side. The soft comfort of my bed mirrored the warmth I felt inside. What had started as a frustrating, ruined date with Hayama had somehow turned into an unexpectedly fun night—thanks to Hikigaya. His deadpan humor, surprising gentleness, and even our playful banter had turned the night into something I hadn't anticipated.
I hugged my knees tighter, a bright smile spreading across my face as I remembered the feel of Hikigaya's hand in mine, we had laughed during the game, and how he had stood there in my doorway, his blush from my kiss. It was strange how things had turned out, but I couldn't deny the flutter in my chest when I thought about him.
My date with Hayama might have been ruined, but being with Hikigaya had been… fun. More than I had expected.
With that thought, I closed my eyes, still smiling, and let my mind drift into sleep, replaying the unexpected events of the night.
0o00
Hikigaya Hachiman sat in his usual seat in the Service Club room, his deadpan expression doing little to conceal the internal conflict brewing inside him. Yukinoshita Yukino, poised and composed, sat on his lap with the quiet dignity of a queen claiming her throne—her prize for winning a game of rock, paper, scissors. Hikigaya sighed inwardly. While part of him couldn't deny the soft, oddly pleasant sensation of Yukino's weight on his legs, the fact that he had become the "prize" in this strange competition was more than a little unsettling.
Meanwhile, Yuigahama, Isshiki, and Miura were intensely focused on their match, eager to claim Hikigaya's other leg as their prize. Their eyes locked in a silent challenge, determined to win, completely oblivious to the door behind them slowly creaking open.
As the final round unfolded, the girls threw their hands forward: Yuigahama threw paper, Miura chose paper, and Isshiki—confident in her win—picked paper as well. The result was clear. Or so they thought.
A collective gasp echoed through the room as a fourth hand emerged between them—scissors, cutting through the competition. The girls blinked in stunned silence. Slowly, they turned to face the owner of the extra hand.
Standing there was Kawasaki Saki, her face impassive, yet her eyes glinted with triumph. Her usual disheveled uniform hung loosely on her frame, the two top buttons undone as always, and her long, pale blue hair swayed as she moved.
Hikigaya couldn't help but notice her legs as she approached—they looked like they were built for kicking. What am I even thinking? He chastised himself, trying to regain his composure.
Saki's scissors had triumphed over the paper, and she looked down at the girls who had lost. They clicked their tongues in frustration.
Before anyone could react further, Komachi, Hikigaya's little sister, stood up. A sly grin spread across her face as she walked over to Kawasaki. Without hesitation, she grabbed Saki's arm, tugging her toward her brother's chair. "Here you go, Saki-chan," she chimed with mischievous delight, pushing the bewildered girl onto Hikigaya's lap.
Kawasaki stumbled, but Komachi's push was strong enough that she fell right onto Hikigaya's lap. Her face flushed bright red as the realization hit her—she was now sitting on his other leg. Hikigaya felt the warmth of her body, her sudden proximity sending him into further mental turmoil.
Kawasaki, usually composed and sharp-tongued, was rendered speechless, her face burning crimson. She glanced at Yukinoshita, who remained calmly seated on Hikigaya's other leg as if it were the most natural thing in the world. Hikigaya caught between two women now, sighed in resignation.
"Well, this is... something," he muttered under his breath, the weight of the situation—literally—bearing down on him.
The girls who had lost clicked their tongues in frustration. Isshiki pouted, Miura crossed her arms, and Yuigahama laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of her neck.
Komachi, looking ever so pleased with herself, clasped her hands together. "Yay! Now everyone's happy!"
Hikigaya, however, wasn't so sure. As Kawasaki shifted nervously on his leg, he wondered how his life had taken such a strange, unpredictable turn.
Fireworks, festivals, and now this. Some days, I just can't catch a break.