Chapter 29: The Boys' Proposal Mission (I)

August 11, 2019 (Sunday) - The Girls' Meeting at Momoyuzuya

Two days later, after flying back to Tokyo from Milan, Miyako barely had time to rest before being dragged into a spontaneous meeting by Momoko and Kaoru. The meeting wasn't held anywhere fancy—it took place right in Momoko's dessert shop, "Momoyuzuya." The sun was shining brightly outside, but inside, a tense yet excited atmosphere filled the air.

The girls gathered in Momoyuzuya for an impromptu pre-trip meeting. Momoko, holding a sweet fruit smoothie, was the first to speak, her voice a mixture of frustration and curiosity: "Alright, let's talk about this. How did those three idiots think their 'downplayed' stories would fool us for so many years? Yuzuhiko actually said his family just runs a 'small ranch with sheep and cattle,' but they supply the top organic milk and butter in the entire country and even influence Hokkaido's economy… Isn't that just way too exaggerated?"

Miyako stared at her matcha latte, gently swirling the foam as memories flooded back. "Do you remember the first time we visited the Midou family?" She looked up at the other two. "Back then, I thought they were just a traditional martial arts family with some old-fashioned customs. But who could've guessed that Kagami's mother is my fashion idol, Tamaka Midou, and that his family holds influence comparable to the government?"

Kaoru propped her chin on her hand, her eyes filled with both anger and disbelief. "And Shigeru is the worst of them all! He called his mom's ryotei a 'simple family diner'! But in reality, his mother, Yoh Kusama, is a Michelin three-star 'God of Cuisine' who's held that rank for twenty straight years. It's more impressive than most aristocratic families! When will those guys stop downplaying everything and be serious with us?"

The three girls exchanged glances and burst into laughter. Their rant seemed to ease the tension, but soon reality crept back into their minds. Momoko put down her smoothie and spoke seriously, "But… tomorrow, we still have to drag those three idiots to report to our families, tell them we're going to visit their homes. Just thinking about it gives me a headache."

Miyako listened to their complaints and chuckled softly, though a sense of worry lingered in her heart. Her grandmother, Kiyoko, was the most respected figure in the family and had always been deeply concerned about Miyako's affairs. Miyako couldn't help but imagine her grandmother's reaction when she explained the extraordinary backgrounds of the boys. After all, Kiyoko was a sharp and wise elder, never easily fooled.

"My grandma is definitely going to scrutinize Kagami tomorrow," Miyako said, a hint of anxiety in her voice. "She's always so perceptive and will surely notice what Kagami's hiding, especially regarding his family's unbelievable influence."

Momoko set down her dessert, her expression serious. "My family won't be any different. My dad may seem easygoing, but when it comes to my marriage, he'll definitely grill Yuzuhiko for every detail. And the three of us have to bring these guys to meet our parents… This is going to be a real battle."

Kaoru slapped the table lightly, her voice resolute: "No matter what, we've already been through so much together. This meeting with our families—we have to face it head-on! And we won't let them get away with those downplayed explanations anymore!"

The girls exchanged determined looks, feeling both anxious and excited. The family introductions the next day would unveil even more secrets and test the strength and trust in their relationships with the boys.

No matter what happened, they were ready to face the challenge, deeply in love with these humble yet goofy guys.

August 13, 2019 (Tuesday) - The Akatsutsumi Family

The evening sun painted the sky with hues of red as it set, casting a warm glow over the Akatsutsumi family's living room. Dinner had just ended, and the room was bathed in the golden twilight.

Steam still rose from the teacups on the table, filling the air with a subtle tea fragrance. Momoko's parents, Hachizou and Kakiko, sat on the sofa, wearing gentle yet focused expressions as they looked at me. Momoko's little sister, Kuriko, stared at me with excitement and curiosity gleaming in her eyes.

I sat at the edge of the sofa, my palms slightly sweaty as I tried to calm my nerves, preparing for what felt like an "interview."

"Yuzuhiko, thank you for coming to have dinner with us today," Hachizou began, his voice calm but with a hint of seriousness. "You and Momoko have been dating for a while now, and Kakiko and I want to make sure our daughter has a stable future. So, could you tell us a bit about your family background and what you do for work?"

The question was direct, and I knew it was something any parent would care about. I did my best to stay composed and smiled as I replied, "Uncle, Auntie, there really isn't much to say about my family. We just have a small ranch in Hokkaido where we raise sheep and cattle. My parents are simple folks, just an ordinary uncle and aunt running the ranch."

Momoko frowned, clearly dissatisfied with my answer. Her bright pink eyes glared at me as if to say, "Here we go again with that nonsense!"

In reality, my "simple ranch" was the famous Shirakawa Ranch, known nationwide for producing top-quality organic dairy products and serving as a pillar of Hokkaido's economy. But I chose to keep my explanation simple because I didn't want to overwhelm Momoko's family with the truth.

Kakiko seemed skeptical, her tone tinged with doubt. "A ranch in Hokkaido? That doesn't sound so simple. Is it really just a small operation?"

I forced a smile, trying to sound casual. "Haha, it's really nothing special. We supply some dairy products to pastry shops and such, but it's still just a regular ranch."

Kuriko's eyes widened in fascination. "Wow! So your family sells milk and butter? Does Momoyuzuya use your dairy products?"

"Uh… maybe?" I scratched my head, inwardly cringing, hoping to steer the conversation away from this topic.

Hachizou nodded slightly, seemingly satisfied for now, but then he asked, "And what about your job? What do you do for a living? Can you provide a stable future for Momoko?"

The question made my heart skip a beat, but I kept smiling as I answered, "I work in the judicial system… as a prosecutor, handling criminal cases."

I deliberately left out the details, like how I'm the youngest prosecutor in Japan, have a 100% conviction rate, and have special permission from the Cabinet to personally take down criminals. I've also single-handedly reduced the country's major crime rate. I knew that sharing too much would make it sound unbelievable.

Hachizou frowned. "A prosecutor? That sounds like tough work, with a lot of risks. Have you thought about how you'll protect Momoko?"

I nodded, my tone becoming more earnest. "Yes, being a prosecutor is challenging and dangerous, but Momoko's safety is my top priority. I'll do everything I can to protect her and ensure she has a stable, happy life."

Kakiko smiled, looking somewhat reassured. "That's good to hear. Being a prosecutor is a noble profession, but we just want to make sure you can keep Momoko safe and happy."

Kuriko, however, looked starry-eyed and blurted out, "Wow, that's so cool! Are you like a hero who catches bad guys?"

I laughed awkwardly. "Haha, not really, just a regular public servant."

Momoko couldn't help but nudge me, grumbling softly, "Regular public servant, my foot! You're way more amazing than that!" Her cheeks flushed, and though she was complaining, her eyes shone with pride and trust.

I felt a wave of relief, thinking I had managed to answer her parents' questions well enough. The atmosphere relaxed a bit, and I thought I could finally let my guard down.

But then, Hachizou suddenly furrowed his brow, examining Momoko and me closely. His eyes darted between us, and he asked a completely unexpected question: "Wait… Yuzuhiko, Momoko, why do you two look so much alike? Same hair color, similar eye color—you could almost pass for twins or siblings."

I froze, nearly choking on the bite of cake I'd just swallowed. My mind went blank, and before I could react, I felt Momoko's hand gently touch my arm, silently signaling me to stay calm and not give anything away.

Internally, I was panicking. How could I explain this? I certainly couldn't say, "Oh, I'm actually a clone created from Momoko's DNA by MOJO."

Just as I was about to come up with some lame excuse, Momoko stepped in, her smile bright and sweet, hiding her inner anxiety. "Dad, that's probably just a coincidence! You know how there are people who look similar even without being our ancestors had some kind of connection!" She joked, her tone light, but her eyes carried a silent plea for the conversation to move on.

Kakiko laughed, seemingly amused by Momoko's explanation. "That's true. I remember seeing a couple on TV once who looked so much alike they could've been twins, but they weren't related at all."

I silently let out a breath of relief, ready to play along, but Kuriko piped up again, "But seriously, you two look so alike! Even your smiles are the same!"

My smile froze, and I inwardly groaned: Kuriko, you're really not helping here!

Momoko faltered for a moment but quickly recovered, giving my hand a reassuring squeeze. She then lowered her head, pretending to be embarrassed. "Oh, Kuriko, don't say things like that! You're going to make people misunderstand!"

Hachizou, now half-joking and half-serious, leaned in and asked, "Misunderstand what? Is there some special connection between you two after all?"

It was my turn to speak. Clearing my throat, I forced a natural smile and replied in a light-hearted tone, "Uncle, really, it's probably just because we've spent so much time together. I've heard that people who spend a lot of time together can start to look alike, even in appearance."

Momoko shot me a look that said, "Good save," clearly pleased with my quick thinking. She added, "Yeah, there's actually a scientific explanation for that! They say people in close relationships influence each other's mannerisms and even facial features over time. So, Dad, don't overthink it!"

Kakiko covered her mouth with a laugh. "That's actually kind of cute! Looks like our Momoko and Yuzuhiko really are a perfect match."

Kuriko, still munching on her dessert, chimed in, "Yeah, I've heard that too! It must be fate that you two look so similar."

I breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for Momoko's quick wit. Her explanation was believable enough, even if it sounded a bit silly. It had successfully put her parents' suspicions to rest, for now.

Kakiko patted Momoko's hand with a gentle smile. "As long as you two are happy, that's all that matters."

A warmth spread through my chest, and I silently vowed that no matter how strange our secrets were, I would do everything to keep Momoko and her family safe and happy.

August 13, 2019 (Tuesday) - The Gotokuji Family

The Gotokuji family's traditional Japanese garden was bathed in the golden hues of the summer sunset. The bamboo trees rustled gently in the breeze, creating a soothing sound. Kiyoko, Miyako's grandmother, sat on a tatami mat, her serene expression framed by the blooming hydrangeas in the garden. Her eyes were kind but carried a sharp wisdom. Kagami sat across from her, posture straight and a playful smile on his face, though a hint of nervousness lingered beneath.

Miyako sat beside him, smiling as she watched, feeling both anxious and hopeful. She respected her grandmother deeply, as Kiyoko had always been a mentor and protector in her life.

Kiyoko sipped her tea delicately before setting the cup down, her gaze shifting to Kagami. "Kagami, you came here today for a reason, didn't you?"

Kagami swallowed, then bowed respectfully. "Grandma Kiyoko, I've come to ask for your blessing… Obon is coming up, and I'd like to take Miyako to Kyoto, to meet my adoptive parents and my two older sisters."

Kiyoko raised an eyebrow, surprised but attentive. She turned her gaze to Miyako and then back to Kagami, a faint smile on her lips. "Kyoto's Arashiyama… It's a beautiful place. I'm sure your family will be delighted to meet our Miyako, won't they?"

Kagami's palms were sweaty, but he kept his composure, offering a nervous smile. "Yes… My parents and sisters are very eager to meet her. Honestly, my family isn't anything special. The estate is just a little big, with a garden so wide that we use horses to get around…" He trailed off, feeling guilty, because he knew that wasn't the full story.

In truth, the Midou family was a prestigious aristocratic clan in Arashiyama, owning numerous world heritage sites and wielding influence on par with the Japanese government. Their estate was vast and culturally rich, and his mother, Tamaka, was a world-class fashion designer. His father, Kennosuke, was a legendary kendo master, and his twin sisters, Hina and Tsukihime, were world-renowned models and masters of traditional Japanese arts.

But Kagami kept things simple, hoping not to overwhelm Kiyoko. "My father, Kennosuke, is a kendo instructor. He's very skilled, just teaching students and practicing kendo. My mother is a designer, talented like Miyako, and loves creating and designing. My sisters… they're usually busy with modeling and competitions, but they're very kind to me."

Miyako smiled knowingly. Kagami's explanation was almost too humble, given his family's incredible influence. But she appreciated how he always downplayed his background, wanting people to see him for who he was.

Kiyoko listened carefully, her expression remaining calm but with a glimmer of admiration. "Your parents and sisters sound very impressive. And what about your work, Kagami? How do you plan to care for our Miyako?"

Kagami's face flushed, but he answered earnestly, "I… I work as a kendo instructor and also forge katanas. It's a way to pass on tradition and pursue my passion." He didn't mention that he was an eighth-dan kendo master or that he was a national treasure-level swordsmith, whose katanas were worth millions. He preferred to remain humble.

Kiyoko nodded gently, her smile warm. "To carry on kendo and forge blades is truly admirable. I hope you'll cherish this passion and take good care of Miyako."

Kagami then pulled a wooden box from under the table, his hands trembling slightly as he placed it in front of Kiyoko. He bowed deeply. "This is an divine katana I forged myself. I offer it to you as a gift, hoping it will protect you and this household."

Kiyoko's eyes widened slightly at the beautifully crafted box. She carefully opened it, unsheathing the blade to reveal a katana gleaming with a divine light in the sunset. The blade shimmered with an elegant yet powerful aura, and the scabbard was adorned with intricate sakura patterns, exuding an ancient and sacred charm.

Miyako gasped in awe. She knew the katana wasn't just a beautiful weapon; it was a priceless treasure, representing Kagami's unparalleled craftsmanship. Such a katana would easily be worth over a hundred million yen, and the craftsmanship alone radiated a spiritual energy that took her breath away.

"Kagami… you made this as a gift?" Miyako whispered, astonished. She knew Kagami was humble but never expected him to offer something so extraordinary.

Kiyoko ran her fingers along the scabbard, her gaze filled with admiration and contemplation. "This divine katana… is a masterpiece. Kagami, your skill is exceptional."

Kagami scratched his head, embarrassed. "Yes, Grandma Kiyoko, I put a lot of effort into this blade because I wanted to give you something protective. Divine katanas are known for their purifying and guarding powers, and I hope it will watch over you and the Gotokuji household."

Kiyoko's eyes softened, and she smiled. "Thank you, Kagami. Your sincerity is appreciated. This katana will be a treasured part of our family, a symbol of protection."

Miyako gently squeezed Kagami's hand, her eyes filled with admiration and affection. She was deeply touched by his sincerity and the immense effort he put into his gift.

Kiyoko observed them fondly but then tilted her head, her gaze shifting between the two. "Kagami, Miyako… Why do you two look so much alike? Your hair color and eye color are almost identical. If I didn't know better, I'd say you were twins."

Miyako froze, her heart pounding. Kagami, clueless as ever, started to speak up, "Oh, that's because I was made from Miyako's—"

Miyako quickly clamped her hand over his mouth, her smile radiant but hiding a hint of panic. "Haha, Grandma, Kagami's just joking!" She smiled sweetly, but her eyes glared a silent warning at him: Don't you dare say another word.

She maintained her composure, desperately thinking of an explanation. Then she laughed lightly. "It's called a 'couple's resemblance'! You know how some couples start to look alike after spending so much time together? It's pretty common!"

Kiyoko chuckled, amused. "Oh, a couple's resemblance? How fascinating. It seems your bond is quite special."

Miyako breathed a sigh of relief and released Kagami's mouth, glaring at him playfully. "Don't you ever say something like that again," she whispered, her smile warm but her eyes stern.

Kagami, realizing his blunder, smiled sheepishly. "Sorry, Miyako… I didn't mean to."

Kiyoko's eyes were full of warmth and understanding, and Miyako felt a surge of gratitude for her grandmother's acceptance and wisdom.

August 13, 2019 (Tuesday) - The Matsubara Family

In the Matsubara family's living room, the aroma of tea mixed with the lingering summer heat. Tokio, Kaoru's father, sat on the sofa, his arms crossed, exuding the intensity and authority of a seasoned wrestler. His wife, Michiru, sat beside him, her gentle demeanor tinged with curiosity and concern.

Their eldest son, Dai, stood nearby, his face serious and guarded, while Kaoru's younger brother, Shou, leaned casually against the wall, playing with his phone but occasionally glancing up with interest.

Shigeru sat upright, a calm smile on his face, but he was far from relaxed. Today, he planned to formally request to take Kaoru to Nagoya for Obon to meet his mother. Despite having earned the Matsubara family's trust years ago when he saved Kaoru from Yakuza of fifty thugs in high school, this meeting still made him nervous.

He took a deep breath and spoke humbly, "Thank you all for taking the time to hear me out. With Obon approaching, I'd like to take Kaoru to Nagoya to formally meet my mother."

Tokio raised an eyebrow, his gaze skeptical. "Take our Kaoru to meet your family? And what does your mother do?"

Shigeru forced a modest smile. "My mother runs a simple family restaurant and is pretty good at cooking."

Before he could finish, Kaoru rolled her eyes and interrupted, "Simple family restaurant? Are you kidding me? Your mom is the head chef of Yohkaku, a Michelin three-star restaurant, and a national treasure-level chef!"

The room fell silent as if a bomb had just gone off. Michiru's eyes widened in shock, and she covered her mouth. "Yohkaku? The Yohkaku? The ryotei that serves kaiseki fit for the Emperor?"

Tokio's eyes narrowed, his mind racing as he tried to process this. "Yohkaku… That's the place we celebrated my championship win. Michiru and I still remember that feast like it was yesterday. And Shigeru's mother is that chef?"

Shigeru scratched his head, a sheepish smile on his face. "Yes… My mother, Yoh Kusama, runs Yohkaku and has held three Michelin stars for twenty consecutive years."

Michiru let out a gasp, her expression filled with admiration. "Goodness, that's no small feat! Your mother's cooking is legendary! How could you call that a simple family restaurant?"

Dai's jaw dropped, and he uncrossed his arms, disbelief etched on his face. "So, you're from Yohkaku? That's not a simple diner; it's a top-tier establishment, the kind only the elite can afford to visit!"

Shou finally looked up from his phone, his mouth agape. "Whoa, that's insane… And you were downplaying it this whole time?"

Shigeru could only laugh awkwardly. "I didn't want to put pressure on anyone, so I just kept it simple. Besides, it's my mom's achievement, not mine."

While everyone was still processing the shock, Tokio turned to Shigeru, his eyes even sharper. "And you? Are you still writing books? Can you give Kaoru a stable future?"

Shigeru took another deep breath, his tone modest. "I'm a novelist… Just a regular writer. I recently won a small award." He tried to downplay it, but in truth, he had won the prestigious Naoki Prize years ago and had just been awarded the Akutagawa Prize, Michirung him the only author in Japan to have both.

Kaoru, exasperated, punched his shoulder. "Stop being so humble! You're the only one who's ever won both the Naoki and Akutagawa Prizes! How dare you call that a 'small award'?"

The living room erupted in another wave of shock. Michiru clutched her chest, stunned. "Both the Naoki and Akutagawa Prizes? That's a miracle in the literary world!"

Tokio's expression softened, his initial suspicion replaced with deep respect. He remained silent for a moment before breaking into a warm smile. "Kid, you're more capable than I thought… Achieving that kind of success in literature is no easy feat." His tone grew gentler, and his eyes reflected newfound approval. "If you've worked this hard and come this far, then Michiru and I can feel assured leaving Kaoru in your hands."

Shou, still reeling, gave a nod of grudging respect. "Okay, I guess you're the real deal… I'm impressed."

Dai let out a sigh of relief. "Looks like we don't have to worry anymore."

Kaoru smiled, relieved that Shigeru had earned her family's acceptance. She knew this humble yet determined man had won their hearts with his achievements and sincerity. Shigeru, for his part, was filled with gratitude, knowing he had to keep proving himself worthy of Kaoru, his fierce, loving partner.

But just as Tokio and Michiru were coming to terms with Shigeru's background, Tokio suddenly furrowed his brows, a new thought occurring to him.

"You know," he said, eyeing Shigeru and Kaoru, "you two look strangely alike. Your hair color, your eye color… It's almost like you're twins or siblings."

Kaoru stiffened, her eyes widening. Alarm bells rang in her head. Shigeru, completely unaware of the danger, began to speak. "Oh, that's because I was made from Kaoru's old socks—" He caught himself too late, realizing his mistake.

Kaoru's face darkened, a vein throbbing at her temple as her eyes burned with fury. She forced a sweet smile and moved her hand to pinch Shigeru's thigh. Hard. Shigeru's face turned pale with pain, his eyes bulging, barely suppressing a scream.

"Shigeru, shut. Up. Now," Kaoru hissed, her smile as sweet as honey but her voice filled with murderous intent. Her expression clearly said: One more word, and you're getting body-slammed.

Shigeru forced a laugh, desperately backpedaling. "Haha, sorry about that! I've been writing too many sci-fi stories… My brain's a bit scrambled from all the research!"

Michiru burst out laughing. "Shigeru, you've got quite the imagination! Old socks and sci-fi, huh?"

Tokio chuckled, giving Shigeru a pat on the shoulder. "Next time, think before you speak, or Kaoru might really knock you out!"

Kaoru released his thigh and stomped her foot, glaring at him. "You idiot! Learn to watch your mouth!"

Shigeru rubbed his sore leg, grinning sheepishly, grateful he had managed to salvage the situation. Kaoru, still fuming, silently vowed to keep a closer eye on him, ensuring he never blurted out anything so reckless again.

Late Night in the Apartment

The three bedrooms in the apartment were silent, with only the occasional sound of someone turning over in bed breaking the stillness.

Momoko couldn't sleep. She stared at the ceiling, her mind swirling with nerves about meeting Yuzuhiko's adoptive parents the next day. Beside her, Yuzuhiko was already fast asleep, his snoring loud enough to rattle the room, making her feel both frustrated and amused.

Eventually, she gave up trying to sleep. Picking up her copies of Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen from the bedside table, she tiptoed into the living room, turned on the light, and curled up on the couch.

"Momoko?" Miyako's soft voice came from the hallway. She was wrapped in a blanket, rubbing her eyes as she stepped into the light. "Can't sleep either?"

Momoko looked up at her and gave a helpless smile. "Yeah. Yuzuhiko snores like a freight train, and I'm super nervous about meeting his family tomorrow."

Miyako walked over and sat beside her. "I can't sleep either. Kagami's snoring is like an orchestra—seriously, it's unbearable." She sighed, then noticed the manga in Momoko's hands and perked up. "Is that Demon Slayer and Jujutsu Kaisen? Are the latest chapters out?"

The two were engrossed in their conversation when footsteps sounded again. "What are you two doing out here?" Kaoru leaned against the doorframe, yawning, her hair a bit disheveled.

"Did Shigeru's snoring wake you up?" Momoko teased, raising an eyebrow.

"What do you think? You think I'm sleepwalking?" Kaoru rolled her eyes and walked over to join them. "What are you guys talking about?"

Momoko waved the manga in her hand with a grin. "We were just debating who's stronger—Sukuna or Muzan."

Kaoru scoffed, looking unimpressed as she took the copy of Jujutsu Kaisen Momoko handed her and flipped through it casually. "That's such a dumb debate. They're just fictional villains." She frowned and added, "If we're talking about the strongest enemy, though, it's still Him."

Miyako's expression shifted slightly, and she lowered her voice. "Yeah… after Him came back, his power was terrifying. We barely had a chance to fight back."

"Exactly," Momoko added, her face growing serious. "When he regained his true form, he was way more powerful than when we sealed him before. If it weren't for the three of us sacrificing everything—and for them…"

"Why bring that up now?" Kaoru cut her off, shaking her head with mild impatience. "We beat Him. That's all that matters. And besides, with those three idiots around, no matter how strong He was, there's no way He could win."

Miyako frowned slightly, her voice carrying a hint of reproach. "Kaoru, don't forget—if they hadn't completely unleashed the power of the Three Sacred Treasures to blast Him into the sun, we wouldn't have won at all."

Momoko nodded, the memory vivid in her mind. "Yeah, they really went all out… But if Sukuna and Muzan faced us, how do you think it would go?"

Miyako thought for a moment before replying, "Sukuna would probably be tougher than Muzan. He's not as easily provoked and feels more like a chess master who controls everything. But ultimately, their power is still within the realm of humanity."

Kaoru leaned against the back of the couch, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "What about the goddess of the underworld, Izanami? I'd say she's maybe just a bit stronger than Sukuna and Muzan."

At those words, the room fell silent. Suddenly, Miyako's face grew tense as she murmured, "No… Izanami's power is on a completely different level from theirs."

Momoko and Kaoru looked at her, confused. "What do you mean?"

Miyako hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "Do you remember how we felt in Yomi? That overwhelming pressure… it was like the entire world was under her control. And when the boys agreed to disappear completely to bring us back to life…"

Momoko's face turned pale, and the manga in her hands fell to the floor. "I remember… She really did have that kind of power. To completely erase someone's existence, even wiping away all traces of them from the world."

"No matter how strong Sukuna or Muzan might be, they couldn't do that," Miyako continued, her voice low. "Even if they were the strongest, they couldn't entirely erase Itadori, Tanjiro, or their friends. Their powers are human, but Izanami's… her power rewrites reality itself, altering the very laws of the universe."

Kaoru frowned, reluctant to admit it but unable to refute it. "…That really is on a whole other level."

Momoko hugged her knees, her voice trembling slightly. "So back then, they really… didn't even think twice before agreeing."

Miyako nodded, a hint of sorrow in her eyes. "They said we were more important than them—more important than the world itself."

"Those idiots…" Kaoru sighed, her tone filled with exasperation and heartbreak. "Usually so clueless and useless, but when it matters most, they go harder than anyone."

Momoko glanced at the manga on the table and murmured, "Sukuna, Muzan, Him… none of them are the scariest enemies. What really terrifies me is the kind of power Izanami has, because she's something completely outside the scope of anything we've ever known…"

Miyako softly added, "But even when faced with something like that, they never backed down."

Kaoru scoffed, but her lips curled into a faint smile. "That's exactly why they're our irreplaceable partners."

The conversation slowly shifted topics. Momoko seemed to be lost in thought, then said, "Speaking of which… now that we know their strength and courage so well, do you guys remember our first crushes back in middle school?"

Miyako looked up and smiled slightly. "Are you talking about that prankster Sakamoto?"

Momoko's face flushed red as she hurried to defend herself. "At the time, I didn't know he was so bad! At first, he didn't pick on me, so I thought he was kind of special…"

Miyako chuckled. "And Takaaki. He always blew those pretty bubbles. Back then, I thought he was a kind, justice-loving boy. He was frail, but it made me want to protect him."

Kaoru rolled her eyes, her tone tinged with irritation. "At least you two have stories for your first crushes. My muscle-bound senpai didn't even notice all the effort I put into wearing a dress!"

Momoko rested her chin on her hands, her voice nostalgic. "But thinking about it now, Sakamoto, Takaaki, and even your senpai… could they have done what Yuzuhiko, Kagami, and Shigeru did?"

Miyako nodded in agreement. "Exactly. If they knew we were being harassed, at most, they'd report it or tell a teacher. But those three idiots? They either dangled someone off Tokyo Skytree, slashed through an office, or smashed a wall bare-handed…"

Kaoru grinned as she added, "And who else would dare to enter Yomi twice, let alone challenge Izanami?"

Momoko's thoughts drifted to their experiences in Yomi, her tone becoming more wistful. "Especially back then, when we were tricked into eating Yomi's food and became so hideous. They didn't show a trace of disgust… Their confessions were more moving than any love letter or childhood crush."

Miyako's gaze softened as she thought back to the past. She smiled faintly and said, "Takaaki's bubbles really were beautiful. I remember how they always made me feel warm and hopeful. Those vibrant spheres were as pure as his sense of justice. But in Yomi? The miasma and chilling air there could suffocate anyone. He… probably wouldn't even have the strength to lift a bubble wand." She paused, her lips curving slightly upward, her voice resolute. "But Kagami? He'd hold my hand tightly and tell me, 'Miyako, I won't let go of you.'"

Kaoru laughed, her tone teasing. "Your Takaaki at least sounds decent—he'd try to blow bubbles. My senpai? Sure, he had muscles, but his courage was inversely proportional to his biceps. He wouldn't even dare approach the mist of Yomotsu Hirasaka, let alone set foot in it. He probably couldn't even find the entrance. The most he could do for me is buy me a protein shake." She shook her head, her tone a mix of exasperation and self-deprecation.

Momoko rested her chin on her hand, her expression thoughtful. "And Sakamoto? He'd play pranks and make people laugh, but if he were to face a place like Yomi… do you think he could even step inside? Let alone go twice or challenge the goddess Izanami." She paused, her tone growing quieter and more tender. "He might put on a brave front, but when it came down to it, I think he'd just freeze. But Yuzuhiko? When Izanami offered my resurrection in exchange for his complete erasure, he agreed without a moment's hesitation." Her voice wavered slightly, thick with emotion, though her gaze remained steady.

Miyako nodded and added softly, "You're right. Ordinary people, even characters like Sukuna or Muzan, would probably falter at the thought of facing a place like Yomi. Just the desolation of Yomotsu Hirasaka is enough to make someone shiver, not to mention entering Yomi itself and confronting its ruler—Izanami."

Kaoru raised an eyebrow, her tone tinged with pride. "But they're different. Those three idiots might be fools, but they never back down. Whether it's Yomi's miasma or Izanami's power, they face it head-on. It's not just about bravery—it's that in their hearts, we're the only thing that matters. That love makes them fearless."

Momoko lowered her head, speaking softly. "They didn't just go in; they completed conditions that seemed utterly impossible. Do you remember? They had to convince Izanagi to willingly meet Izanami. Then, when they saw us corrupted by Yomi's food, our appearances completely disfigured, they showed no disgust—just heartfelt confessions, saying, 'No matter what you become, I still love you.' And finally, when Izanami demanded their total erasure in exchange for our resurrection, they didn't hesitate for even a second."

Her voice quivered slightly with emotion, then she let out a bitter laugh. "Do you think Sakamoto, Takaaki, or your senpai could've done any of that?"

Miyako fell silent for a moment before speaking, her tone contemplative and tinged with admiration. "They couldn't. That's the difference—and it's perfectly normal human nature. But why? Why could the boys do it? They've gone beyond human limits, defying logic. Why can they put us above even themselves or the world?"

Kaoru frowned, her voice low and slightly uneasy. "Yeah… That kind of love is so overwhelming it feels almost unreal. No ordinary person could go that far, right?"

Momoko sighed softly, her tone subdued. "Maybe it's because they're not ordinary people. They're… not even human. They're clones created by Mojo using our DNA. Their existence has been intertwined with ours from the very beginning. While they may have been designed, everything they've done since has been their own choice."

Miyako chuckled lightly, her voice tinged with nostalgia and warmth. "Do you remember how they used to be? They were so infuriating and ridiculous. Picking their noses, flicking earwax, spitting, throwing dirty socks, and even flipping our skirts." She laughed softly, a hint of exasperation in her tone. "Back then, we could knock them out with a single slap or blow a kiss to send them reeling—they were like overgrown kids."

Kaoru burst out laughing, her tone playful. "Right? Back then, they weren't even real opponents—not worth mentioning. Their gross little tricks made me so mad, but looking back, it's kind of funny." She tilted her head and added, "But you're right—they've changed so much since then."

Momoko rested her chin on her hand, her expression thoughtful. "At first, we didn't take them seriously. We just thought they were troublemakers created by Mojo. But thinking back on everything we've been through… their growth has been so surprising. From immature and reckless to willing to sacrifice so much for us. They've become so gentle and steadfast, even daring to venture into Yomi—not just once, but twice."

Miyako's gaze softened, her lips curving into a small smile. "Exactly. Their actions have gone far beyond what any ordinary person could achieve. Especially their willingness to disappear entirely just to bring us back—that's a choice that's incomprehensible." She lowered her head, her voice tinged with contemplation. "Maybe it's because they're not ordinary people. Being clones created from our DNA, they've always had this deep attachment to us. Their existence was tied to ours from the start."

Kaoru smirked slightly, a trace of pride in her tone. "When you think about it, it makes sense. They might have been created from our genes, but they've become so much more than anyone's 'clones.' Sure, they're clumsy, but in critical moments, they always make the right choice. They challenged Izanami and stood their ground in Yomi because, in their hearts, it's all about us."

Momoko nodded with a soft laugh, her tone warm. "Exactly. Their transformation isn't because of their genes—it's because of their choices. They've grown little by little, putting us at the center of their world. In the end, it's their awkwardness and determination that make us feel safe."

Miyako's eyes shimmered with emotion, her tone gentle. "Honestly, I don't care about their origins. Rather than calling them clones, I'd say they're people like us, with their own will and choices. They've said before, 'As long as you're with us, we feel safe and warm.' That kind of love isn't something genetics can decide."

Kaoru chuckled and added, "So what if their origins sound like something out of science fiction? What matters is who they are now—they've become our world. Their love for us is far more real than any so-called 'perfect' first love. My senpai might've been strong, but he wouldn't have even dared approach Yomi's gates. Shigeru, though? He didn't hesitate to risk everything for me."

Momoko thought for a moment, her voice soft and contemplative. "Same here. Sakamoto might've made me laugh, but Yuzuhiko… he's the one who taught me the meaning of love. Their existence has shown us what it means to truly rely on someone. No matter what, they're the most important people in our lives."

The three girls exchanged glances, their smiles warm and filled with unspoken understanding. To them, the origins of those three fools didn't matter.

Their love was real, their choices were their own, and the silly tricks of the past had simply become the backdrop to a love that surpassed all logic.

Momoko glanced at the desserts on the table and smiled. "What do you think? When we meet their families tomorrow, do you think we'll get asked about all this?"

Kaoru shrugged with a playful smirk. "If Shigeru's mom asks me, I'll just tell her her son's an idiot—but he's my idiot."

Miyako chuckled, taking a sip of tea. "Exactly. They might be clumsy, but that's what makes their love feel so real."

The three girls shared a laugh. Under the warm glow of the lights, their smiles felt as comforting and bright as the days to come.

The night was deep, the soft light in the living room casting a warm glow, but the three girls had no intention of sleeping.

They sat together on the couch, tea cups in hand, their conversation drifting from lighthearted talks about first crushes to deeper reflections.

Momoko gently set her cup down, her fingers tracing the rim, a hint of frustration in her tone. "Three months ago, during those seven days, I was about to lose my mind. They said they were going on a short trip, but then—no contact at all. At first, I convinced myself, 'Maybe there's just no signal,' but by the fourth day, I couldn't hold it in anymore. Do you remember? I was crying and asking you if something might've happened to them."

Miyako nodded, the memory still bringing a pang of unease. "Me too. On the sixth night, I dreamt Kagami was standing far away, walking further and further away from me. I tried to chase after him, but I couldn't catch up no matter what. When I woke up, my pillow was soaked."

Her voice was low, as if reluctant to revisit that helpless feeling.

Kaoru, usually unshaken, wore a rare serious expression, her tone tinged with anger. "By the sixth day, I couldn't take it anymore. I even thought about calling the police, but then I remembered they said it was a 'short trip' before leaving. I didn't want people laughing at me for overreacting." She spread her hands, a note of sarcasm in her voice. "And when they came back? They gave me some crap excuse about 'going on an archaeological expedition in South America with the University of Tokyo professor.' Shigeru actually managed to say it with a straight face. Unbelievable."

The three of them relived those emotions—anger, despair, and, ultimately, helplessness. The fear and worry from that time still felt fresh.

Miyako pressed her lips together, recalling the scene, then let out a soft laugh. "But do you remember? The more we pressed them for answers, the more they suddenly held our hands, interlocking their fingers with ours…" She paused, her tone softening. "And then they looked at us so seriously and said, 'We have an important plan. Please trust us.'"

Momoko couldn't help but laugh at the memory, her eyes carrying a hint of playful mockery. "Yuzuhiko's expression was way too sincere… It was like if we'd kept asking, he'd have gotten down on his knees to beg us to stop."

Kaoru shrugged, her voice full of disdain. "We were furious, ready to blow up, and then their overly heartfelt looks made us forget everything. What the hell."

At that moment, Momoko suddenly slapped her forehead, as if recalling something. "Wait a minute! Do you remember? Before they left, they borrowed our rings! Said something about 'needing them for a special plan during the trip.'"

Miyako furrowed her brows slightly, thinking carefully. Then her expression turned surprised. "That's right… That's exactly when it happened! They sounded so serious, and somehow, we didn't even ask any follow-up questions." She looked up at her friends, her eyes filled with curiosity. "What do you think they needed our rings for?"

Kaoru snorted, her voice tinged with mockery. "I'd like to know, too. What kind of plan needs our rings?"

Momoko's eyes began to sparkle, her tone filled with a mix of suspicion and anticipation. "Wait a second… rings… a surprise… and meeting their families… Do you think… they're planning to…?"

Her voice trailed off, uncertain whether to say it aloud.

Miyako's cheeks flushed slightly as she hesitantly finished the thought, "You mean… propose?" Her voice carried a hint of nervousness and disbelief, as if uttering those two words was almost too far-fetched.

Kaoru raised an eyebrow, letting out a dismissive laugh before her expression grew more complicated. "No way… Those three idiots, with zero romantic instincts, planning something that serious?" She paused, her tone dropping. "I don't know what to think."

Miyako remained silent for a moment, then nodded slowly. "If it's them, it's possible. Kagami might be clumsy, but every decision he makes is deliberate and thoughtful. And their behavior has been a bit strange lately."

Momoko's eyes lit up, as if she could already see a beautiful scene unfolding in her mind. Her voice turned dreamy. "A proposal… If that's really what it is, do you think Yuzuhiko would kneel in front of me, holding a ring, and say, 'Momoko, will you marry me?' Oh my gosh… Just imagining it makes me so happy!" She clasped her hands to her face, fully immersed in her fantasy.

Miyako, listening to her, couldn't help but add softly, "If it were Kagami… He'd probably be so nervous he couldn't even speak. Then, before I could react, he'd suddenly kneel down and present the ring to me…" Her blush deepened, and her voice grew softer. "That awkward yet sincere look… How could I ever say no?"

Kaoru frowned, crossing her arms and muttering, "You two need to calm down. What's there to get so excited about…" She trailed off, her tone unconsciously softening. "But… if it were Shigeru… that guy would probably wait until I'm completely off guard, then suddenly blurt out, 'Kaoru, just marry me already,' like it's the most natural thing in the world." Her lips twitched slightly, her tone filled with irritation and resignation. "What an idiot. Such an idiot…"

Miyako spoke softly, her tone reflective. "Tell me, if it weren't for them, who else would do this for us? With everything that happened in Yomi… There's probably no one else in the world who would dare to go to such a place, much less for our sake."

Her gaze softened, her voice dropping further. "If they really propose… would you say no?"

Momoko almost shouted, "Say no? Are you kidding me? How could I ever say no to Yuzuhiko? It has to be him!"

Miyako nodded gently, her tone filled with quiet conviction despite a trace of hesitation. "…Yeah. Kagami's love is so deep, even the gods couldn't change his resolve. Who else in the world would put me in such an important place in their heart? The answer is obvious."

Kaoru was silent for a while before she spoke softly, "Yeah, those three idiots are as dumb as they come, but… there's no one else who could do what they've done."

A faint smile appeared on her lips, her tone carrying a hint of bashful pride. "Not that it has to be him or anything… but if it were Shigeru… I wouldn't hate that kind of ending."

Momoko looked at her two friends and suddenly smiled brightly. "So, should we start thinking about how to answer if they really show up with rings and propose? Something with a bit more flair, maybe?"

Miyako chuckled softly. "I think… our answers are already written all over our faces."

Kaoru snorted, turning her head away. "What a hassle…"

The three girls exchanged smiles, their feelings clear to each other. Perhaps they weren't ready to admit it openly, but deep down, they already knew the truth—there wouldn't be anyone else in the world like those three clumsy yet loving fools.