Chapter IV | “True Friendship”

♣♣♣

I was planting flower seeds with Himari in the school flowerbed.

We were focusing on flowers that bloom between autumn and winter, planting them for new accessories. Himari handled the shovel as if it were an extension of her body, her movements as practiced as the bond between us.

Getting her jersey muddy, Himari smiled at me.

“Yuu, let’s make beautiful flowers bloom♡”

Her smile was unbearably cute yet embarrassingly sweet. While thinking, “Well, nothing’s more beautiful than Himari,” I planted the seeds with her.

It was a peaceful time. If life could always be like this, I’d undoubtedly be happy. Lost in such thoughts, I watered the soil.

Then, something strange happened.

The soil where we’d just planted the seeds suddenly swelled, and a sprout popped up. It was way too fast. I thought it was odd, but since Himari was impressed, saying, “Wow, that’s amazing!” I just went along with it.

As we watched, more changes occurred.

The sprout grew rapidly, eventually blooming into a flower so tall we had to look up at it. I knew it was weird, but when Himari clapped, saying, “It’s huge!” I just accepted it.

Then, the flower closed its petals and puffed up like a balloon. The next moment, it shot out seed bullets, hitting me square in the forehead. I staggered back, shouting, “Ah!” and tried to dodge the next ones, yelling, “S-stop it! Don’t shoot seeds at me!”

Meanwhile, Himari, still saying, “Wow, the flower’s so pretty,” got swallowed whole by the flower. She flailed her legs while repeating, “Wow, the flower’s so pretty.” It was low-key horrifying, like Pikachu being eaten by Whiscash.

“Himari! I’ll save you!”

I grabbed the shovel and ran to help. But it was no use.

Suddenly, the world turned dark!

(What? I can’t see anything…?)

The next moment, a spotlight shone on me. I shielded my eyes from the brightness and looked around.

It was a square ring. A referee-like figure in a polo shirt—Hibari-san—stood there, flashing a bright smile and boldly declaring, “I swear to make favorable judgments for Yuu-kun!”

Across from me stood my opponent, a girl in a school uniform wearing a mysterious cat-ear mask—clearly Enomoto-san.

“Eh, Enomoto-san…?”

Enomoto-san shook her head.

“Not Enomoto-san. Mask de Rin-chan.”

That name’s so lame…

As I recoiled, Enomoto-san took an Iron Claw stance.

“If you want to save Hii-chan, you’ll have to defeat me.”

“Seriously? I don’t stand a chance…”

Outside the ring, Himari and the flower monster were eating popcorn together while heckling me. Huh? Wait, she’s fine on her own…?

While I was distracted, Enomoto-san moved!

She reached out to grab me—no feints, just a straightforward, honest attack.

Enomoto-san’s signature move was the Iron Claw. If I just focused on her arms, dodging would be easy… Wait, what the!? Suddenly, Makishima appeared behind me, laughing maniacally, “Nahahaha!” as he pinned me down!

And Enomoto-san closed in!

“Yuu-kun. Prepare yourself!”

“Eh!?”

She cupped my face with both hands and leaned in with a super cute kissy face.

“Stop—!!”

“It’s fine because it’s a best friend kiss.”

“That’s not fine… Wait, Himari! Seriously, help me!”

Huh!? For some reason, Himari was shaking hands passionately with Kureha-san, declaring, “I’ll become the world’s top model!” What’s with that change of heart!?

Meanwhile, Enomoto-san’s lips came closer!

“Yuu-kun…♡”

“Sto—oooooop!!”

♣♣♣

I woke up with a start.

Reflexively, I covered the approaching face of Enomoto-san with my palm.

“Ngh…”

Enomoto-san let out a small cry.

My heart was pounding. Where am I? What was that ring? The flower monster? And… oh, it was a dream.

I let out a deep breath.

(Right… I’m in Tokyo with Enomoto-san…)

I’d had a really weird dream. I must’ve been really tired.

As I thought that… why was I so tired? Also, it’s kinda bright. Must be the upper-floor suite; the sunlight’s stronger than usual.

But the real issue was the strange pressure and blissful sensation wrapping around my body…

A stunningly beautiful girl, breathing softly in her sleep, using me as a body pillow. Her bathrobe had slipped off her shoulder, and I didn’t know where to look. ……Come to think of it, does Enomoto-san have a habit of clinging in her sleep?

Normally, I’d scream, but the shock from the dream left me emotionally numb. How did this happen? My last memory was waiting for Enomoto-san to finish her shower while watching TV… Oh, I must’ve fallen asleep.

And Enomoto-san, instead of sleeping on the bed, must’ve fallen asleep here too. She could’ve just slept on the fancy bed. I’m sure she was watching me sleep, and that’s just mortifying.

……A body pillow for my first love, a beautiful girl.

At first glance, it seems incredibly blissful. But in reality, it’s just an illusion. Because I’ve been trying to escape for a while now and can’t move. This is more of a pinning hold than a body pillow…

(Crap, crap. If I don’t get out soon, I’ll get kissed in my dream again…)

As I squirmed, Enomoto-san suddenly groaned. In that moment, she woke up. Her jet-black eyes, like black pearls, stared straight at me.

Following Enomoto-san’s usual style, I started with a greeting.

“G-good morning, Enomoto-san.”

“…………Morning.”

Still half-asleep, Enomoto-san muttered, “Ngh… Big sis, just a little more…” before trying to drift back to sleep… then snapped her eyes open again.

“~~~~~~~~~~~~~~!!”

She let out a wordless scream and bolted to the bathroom.

Freed from her grasp, I slid off the sofa onto the fluffy rug. Well, this is Tokyo for you. A morning full of excitement. It’s tough for a rookie in love…

Then, I vaguely remembered the dream. That cat-ear mask girl’s kissy face was even more sensational than the flower monster eating Himari…

I grabbed the fluffy cushion from the corner of the sofa, buried my face in it, and screamed.

“Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah…!!”

Having Enomoto-san try to kiss me even in my dreams is ridiculous!! I have the world’s cutest girlfriend, Himari! Absolutely! I’m not expecting anything!

Breathing heavily, I looked out the window at the morning city below. I could see the many skyscrapers and people in suits heading to work.

I want flowers…

My heart’s restless because there are no flowers. If I had flowers, I’d feel calmer. I want to arrange flowers on this table…

As I thought that, the room phone rang. Pressing the call button, the hotel front desk greeted me.

’Natsume-sama, there’s an external call for you from Enomoto-sama.’

“Eh, for me?”

Kureha-san’s cheerful voice came through immediately.

’Yahoo~ _☆ Yuu~chan, if you want pretty flowers, Ginza’s the place to go~♪’

“How do you know what I’m thinking!? You didn’t bug this place, right!?”

’Hehe. Yuu~chan, you’re so easy to read~. Even if you become a full-fledged creator, you’ll get tricked by bad people in no time~.’

“……So, what’s this about?”

I’m seriously great for not blurting out, ’Well, I’m talking to a bad person right now.’

’How mean~. Can’t I call you without a reason~?’

“If anything, you’re the type who does call for no reason…”

She’s basically always up to something sneaky. I’m grateful for the travel and hotel expenses, but you’re the one who kidnapped me…

Kureha-san, as usual, pouted in a childlike manner that didn’t suit her looks, showing her displeasure with a “Hmph!”

’I came all this way to tell you something interesting~. If you’re gonna say things like that, I’ll stop being your big sister~.’

“Something interesting?”

’Oh~? Are you curious~?’

“……Well, yeah, I guess so.”

Out of morbid curiosity, I suppose. Honestly, I know the smart thing would’ve been to hang up without listening.

’Then~, let’s have dinner together today~.’

“No, you can just tell me over the phone…”

’Come on~. Don’t exclude me~.’

“You’re the one who said you were busy with work yesterday…”

Is she a lonely bunny?

I really can’t tell if she’s joking or serious when she acts like this.

“I’m fine with it, but Enomoto-san’s been furious since yesterday. What about her?”

’Eh~? You’re still calling her Enomoto-san~? You had fun last night, didn’t you~?’

“Don’t joke around with Dragon Quest references. I just fell asleep.”

’Hmm~. Spent the whole night together and no progress~? Poor Rion~.’

Shut up!?

I’ve been saying we’re not in that kind of relationship! I have! The world’s cutest! Girlfriend! Named Himari!

Kureha-san giggled, then announced, as if to end the jokes.

’There’s a delicious omurice place near Nihombashi Station~. Ginza’s nearby too, so let’s meet there after you buy flowers~♪’

“Right, you mentioned that earlier. But Ginza doesn’t really give off florist vibes…”

When you think of Ginza, it’s more of a high-class, fashionable area. Politicians and people clad in luxury brands—that’s the image I have of it.

But a florist?

As I tilted my head in confusion, Kureha-san laughed brightly.

’Yuu~chan, your image of Tokyo is so straightforward~. It’s a high-class commercial district, so there’s a high demand for social gestures~♪’

“Ah, I see. That makes sense…”

Flowers are perfect as gifts. It’s no wonder there are so many florists here. I’m just showing my country bumpkin side.

After securing our plans, Kureha-san said, ’See you later~☆’ and ended the call. I let out a sigh.

(……Something good for me?)

Just as I was thinking it sounded suspicious, as if timed, the bathroom door opened.

Startled, I turned to see Enomoto-san peeking out with only half her face visible. Her beautiful black hair and well-maintained face were already perfectly set. Seems she’d finished getting ready while I was distracted.

“……Yuu-kun.”

“Wh-what?”

I thought she might’ve overheard the call with Kureha-san, but I was wrong. Enomoto-san fidgeted, hesitating as she asked.

“Did I… do anything weird while I was asleep?”

“…………”

This question’s too hard!!

How should I answer this? Weird things, weird things… Almost getting kissed while asleep counts as a weird thing, right?

Nah, I can’t say that!!

“Uh, I just woke up too, so I don’t really remember…”

“…………”

Hey, Enomoto-san?

Why do you look so disappointed? My self-control’s cracking here, you know…

♣♣♣

In the afternoon, we arrived in Ginza.

Gazing up at Kabuki-za, the sacred ground of traditional performing arts, Enomoto-san and I immediately took a commemorative selfie.

Then, Enomoto-san made an excited request.

“Yuu-kun. Let’s do that kabuki-like pose.”

“Kabuki-like pose?”

Ah, that one. Where the actor strikes a dramatic pose with one leg forward. I think it’s called “mie wo kiru” (striking a pose).

By the second day of our trip, my sense of shame had already thinned like delicate flower petals. In front of the majestic Kabuki-za, I struck a pose and took a selfie.

Enomoto-san, in high spirits, immediately drew red lines on the photo.

“Hehe. Yuu-kun’s cross-eyed face is funny…”

“It’s way too embarrassing that you made me do it alone when you suggested it…”

I checked Kabuki-za’s performance schedule, but the same-day tickets were already sold out. After yesterday’s pro wrestling, I’d grown interested in stage performances, so it was a bit disappointing.

I looked around Ginza’s streets again.

Where traditional architecture stood, across the road were magnificent modern buildings with mirrored facades.

The large intersection at Chuo-dori had a European-style retro department store. Further down were fast fashion stores like Uniqlo and long-established shops selling Japanese paper and incense. It was a fascinating mix of old and new.

“Enomoto-san, what should we see next?”

“Ah, there’s somewhere I want to go.”

Her research was flawless. As expected of Enomoto-san. I followed her as she walked, guided by Google Maps.

♣♣♣

Ginza Mitsukoshi.

It’s the huge commercial building at the Chuo-dori intersection. From the entrance guarded by the famous Mitsukoshi-mae Lion statue, we entered the store. As expected of a symbol of a high-class commercial district, everything was sparkling as far as the eye could see. We took the escalator and arrived at a certain tenant.

Frédéric Cassel.

A world-renowned Western confectionery with its main store in Paris. One of its few branches is located in this Ginza Mitsukoshi.

The chocolatiers, neatly arranged in glass display cases, shone as if they were dazzling.

Starting with the classic mille-feuille wrapped in pastry, there were chocolate cakes, cookie choux, and more. As for baked goods, there were the classic financiers and brownies.

The sweets, reflecting the light from the illumination, were all incredibly beautiful. The aura of “This is definitely delicious” was overwhelming. Even for someone like me who isn’t particularly fond of sweets, it was enough to get excited. It’s practically art.

“Wow. It looks super delicious……”

“My sister said that having famous overseas stores like this is one of Ginza’s characteristics.”

“Definitely, the whole floor has that kind of atmosphere.”

“I heard there are also many Western confectionery stores that originated in Japan with their main stores here. Several famous patissiers who trained overseas have opened shops here.”

Looking around at the other stores, of course, they were also displaying sweets that looked just as stunning.

Both domestic and international, the famous products are usually hard to come by. If they’re all gathered here, it must be a blessing for fans.

“But Enomoto-san is amazing, huh?”

“Why?”

“Even during a trip, she’s thinking about studying sweets. I was totally in tourist mode……”

“…………”

For some reason, Enomoto-san looked puzzled when I said I truly admired her.

“Studying sweets? What do you mean?”

Ah, this was just her wanting to eat them herself, huh……

I felt embarrassed by my own words. I wanted to take back the stock that had just skyrocketed in value.

“Yuu-kun. Which one are you getting?”

“Then, I’ll go with the mille-feuille.”

Enomoto-san chose the same one.

Inside Ginza Mitsukoshi, there’s a terrace floor for resting. Customers were enjoying a leisurely time, basking in the sunlight streaming through the windows. We also bought some takeout fruit juice from a juice shop along the way, so we were all set.

We took a seat by the empty window and got ready to eat.

The rectangular mille-feuille. The rich vanilla cream and the golden layers of caramelized pastry were a feast for the eyes. First, of course, we took a selfie with Enomoto-san. The two of us holding out the mille-feuille toward the camera looked like some kind of PR photo for a Western confectionery store, and it made me laugh.

“Let’s eat…… ah.”

That’s when I finally realized something crucial.

“Enomoto-san. There’s no fork……”

“Ah……”

Since it’s a takeout specialty store, it’s basically for souvenirs. There’s a cooling pack, but no fork. Damn, I should’ve asked for one.

“What should we do?”

“…………”

Enomoto-san was alternately looking at the cake and me. Her puzzled expression made it clear what she was thinking. Or rather, I felt the same way.

This violently sweet aroma…… I can’t wait until we get back to the hotel.

“Alright. Let’s just eat it with our hands.”

“Huh!?”

It’s fine, it’s fine.

Each sweet has a paper base. If we hold onto it carefully…… oh, it worked. The base was sturdy, thank goodness.

Behold. The fine cream and the crispy layers of pastry shimmering. The beautiful duet seemed to be singing, “Eat me~♪”

I could no longer hold back. I opened my mouth wide.

“Here we go…… hmm?”

Enomoto-san was staring intently.

She looked incredibly dissatisfied. I’ve never seen Enomoto-san pout so childishly before. I get that she’s incredibly annoyed, but it’s so cute that I want to see more of it, which is counterproductive, Enomoto-san!

“Enomoto-san, aren’t you eating?”

“…………”

She fidgeted with her hands while alternating her gaze between the mille-feuille and me. Ah, I see. Even for a girl, eating with your hands in public must feel awkward. My consideration was lacking……

……But yesterday, she said “nyan nyan” without a care. I can’t grasp the line for her sense of shame.

“Then, do you want to go back to the hotel and eat together?”

“I don’t want that. I can’t wait.”

“What do you want me to do……”

My second-generation best friend is way too selfish. ……Ah, but this feeling of being bossed around feels kind of nostalgic, and I ended up laughing.

Then, Enomoto-san seemed to have an idea and opened her mouth toward me.

“Ah~hn.”

“…………”

Seriously……

Why is it okay for me to feed her? Next time, I want them to make a manual for that judgment criteria.

“Yuu-kun. Hurry up.”

“No, I’m the one who’s embarrassed……”

“It’s fine. This is within the bounds of best friends.”

“I wish that criteria was shared with everyone here……”

Enomoto-san tapped her knees, saying, “Come on, hurry up.”

Feeling like I was feeding a baby bird, I brought the mille-feuille to her mouth. Enomoto-san immediately took a bite. The crisp, light chewing sound filled my heart.

Enomoto-san put her hand on her cheek and let out a blissful sigh.

“It’s so delicious~……♡”

Eh, really? It looks super tasty.

As I fidgeted, Enomoto-san picked up the other mille-feuille with the paper base. Then she opened her mouth toward me again. Why is it okay for me to feed her……

“Yuu-kun. It’s really delicious.”

“No, I can eat it myself though……”

“No, no. You should eat it right away. Together. Hurry.”

“Ugh……”

The golden mille-feuille seemed to be calling me…… or so I felt.

Steeling myself, I took a bite at the same time. Crunch, crunch…… crunch………… crunch…… crunch, crunch……………… crunch………….

Before I knew it, I felt like tears were streaming down my face.

“So good~~~~……”

“Right? It’s amazing!”

What is this? It’s super delicious.

It’s completely different from the mille-feuille cake I know. The richness of the vanilla that slowly hits you makes you wonder, “What’s this about healthy eating?” and then the caramelized honey finishes you off. I don’t even know what I’m saying, but this duet is dangerous. It’s rich, yet the different flavors take turns stimulating your taste buds.

So good. I’d seriously pay for a plane ticket just to eat this……

“Hehehe. So satisfying……”

Even though it’s so rich, you can finish it in one go. The dreamlike moment passed in an instant.

As I was savoring the aftertaste, Enomoto-san also finished eating. Licking the cream off her lips, she asked me.

“Yuu-kun. Are you planning to stop here?”

“……Eh?”

I flinched in response. Enomoto-san’s expression was somewhat provocative.

I see. It seems I’ve been too caught up in peace. As a sweet lover, that was an incredibly unconscious statement.

If Ginza is gathering the world’s delicious sweets, then I shouldn’t be satisfied yet. I’ll accept that challenge……

“In fact, I feel like this is just the beginning.”

One of my few specialties is being able to eat a whole cake by myself. Last Christmas, I spent the whole day eating half-priced cakes from my local convenience store. Well, Himari scolded me, saying, “Don’t ever do that again.”

In response to my answer, Enomoto-san’s eyes sparkled, as if to say, “That’s the spirit.”

“Yuu-kun. Let’s go next.”

“Alright.”

Having been moved by the world-class sweets, some strange switch flipped inside us, and we began conquering the stores as our instincts led us.

♣♣♣

Having completely forgotten our original purpose for coming to Ginza, we suddenly came to our senses.

The macarons from that café were amazing. Until now, I thought macarons were something you bought as souvenirs, but I’d buy those for myself. Each one had a stylish pattern, and I’d love to arrange them on a plate someday and take a photo.

The chocolate curry from that store was also incredible. It was just really tasty curry, but the chocolate flavor opened up a new frontier. It was really delicious.

The Belgian chocolate, the baumkuchen, the fruit parlor—everything was great. We had satisfied our sweet tooth for the next year or so and were about to return to the hotel by subway, feeling completely satisfied.

Just before getting on the train, we finally remembered, “Ah, we wanted to go to the flower shop.” ……That was close. If it were just a promise with Kureha-san, we probably would’ve gone straight back to the hotel.

The flower shops were scattered here and there if you paid attention.

Moreover, they all felt like the epitome of style. Some had large storefronts on the first floor of commercial buildings. The glass-walled spaces looked like showrooms, with colorful flower arrangements on display. As Enomoto-san and I looked at them, I felt incredibly soothed.

Ah, flowers are truly wonderful. Just looking at them calms the heart. It must have an effect like an MP recovery fountain in a game.

I gently spoke to the flowers on the other side of the glass.

“Even in a life different from usual, I could never forget your beauty……”

“……Yuu-kun. You’re spitting out some handsome lines.”

Enomoto-san’s gaze was fixed on the glass. Ugh, embarrassing.

After rapidly losing my flower components over the past few days, my rationality had softened. But these flowers are beautiful. As expected of a place with high land prices—the quality of the flowers is carefully considered.

Enomoto-san excitedly prepared her smartphone.

“Yuu-kun. Say that handsome line again.”

“You’re going to record it, aren’t you? Absolutely not.”

“I won’t show it to anyone. It’s just for my own enjoyment.”

“What do you mean, enjoyment!?”

Seriously, spare me. If that gets recorded, I’ll never be able to walk under the sun again.

“Then, let’s look for a travel companion right away.”

We immediately entered the store. The spacious interior had many arrangements on display.

Wow…… The overwhelming fragrance of fresh flowers. Even though we’re in Tokyo, it feels a bit nostalgic. My steps naturally lightened. Enomoto-san also looked around the store with delight.

What I noticed was the sheer variety of species.

Sunflowers, dahlias, marigolds—seasonal staples, of course—but also roses, tulips, and lisianthus, which should’ve been out of season, were naturally on display. Other popular gift varieties were also available, and I was overwhelmed by the sheer cost it must have taken.

Near the register, there was a sign saying “Current wait time for arrangements.” In other words, they would create arrangements on the spot according to customer requests. The arrangements displayed in the store were, in other words, sample products.

Locally, it’s common to buy pre-made arrangements, and this service must be very costly. But it’s necessary to capture the hearts of customers. Even now, behind the register, staff were putting together arrangements at the workbench.

Surviving in a place where such detailed needs are expected is no easy feat. This attitude deserves respect.

Then, Enomoto-san returned from the back of the store. She looked unusually happy, and it seemed she had found the flower she was looking for.

“Yuu-kun. Found the hibiscus!”

“Eh, seriously?”

On the shelf with potted plants, a vivid flower was in bloom. There were two colors: pink and orange, and some pots had a mix of both.

Enomoto-san let out a sigh of relief as she looked at them.

“Hibiscus are sold as potted plants, huh……”

“Hibiscus can survive the winter. If you prune and manage them in the fall, they’ll bloom beautifully again next year. In Okinawa, hibiscus cuttings are sold as souvenirs.”

Enomoto-san said “I see” as she observed the potted plant.

“But it seems smaller than the one I saw in elementary school……”

Seizing the opportunity, I enthusiastically explained.

“The hibiscus that are available in the market are horticultural varieties, mostly cross-bred in places like Hawaii. Most of them have smaller flowers than the original species, so that might be why.”

The hibiscus, classified under the genus Hibiscus, has horticultural varieties that number up to ten thousand when including the minor ones.

They’re mainly categorized into three types: ‘Hawaiian,’ ‘Coral,’ and ‘Old.’ The ones here are the Old horticultural varieties, named ‘Lemon Yellow’ and ‘Painted Lady.’

Enomoto-san was seriously taking notes on her smartphone. So diligent.

“Then, the hibiscus at that botanical garden back then……”

“It must’ve been the original species. Since the exhibit isn’t there anymore, we can’t confirm it……”

Besides, we were small back then. From an elementary schooler’s perspective, even a horticultural variety might’ve felt as impactful as the original species.

However, thinking that way felt too bland, so I swallowed those words.

“Enomoto-san. Which one should we decorate the hotel with?”

Then, Enomoto-san, who had apparently already decided, took my hand and led me to the shelf with potted plants. Then she pointed to a bright red flower.

“I like this one.”

I thought it was a hibiscus, so I was a bit surprised.

“Ah, a geranium……”

A popular perennial classified under the genus Pelargonium. Originally classified under the genus Geranium, it’s still commonly known as a geranium.

Its fragrance reduces insect damage, making it easy to grow even for beginners. Geraniums have long been cultivated in Europe as herbs, used for insect repellents and aromatherapy oils. You might’ve seen them planted in roadside flower beds in Japan.

At the tip of its long flower stalk, it produces numerous star-shaped flowers. Its appearance is as fantastical as handheld fireworks on a summer night. Back in elementary school, I thought it looked like Harry Potter shooting magic with his wand.

“Why this one?”

Enomoto-san crossed her arms and proudly explained. So busty.

“I like the flower language of the geranium.”

“Flower language?”

Enomoto-san didn’t say anything more. It seemed she wanted me to figure it out.

(Hmm, the flower language of geraniums is…… ah.)

I realized the meaning.

The flower language of geraniums is ‘respect,’ ‘trust,’ and—‘true friendship.’

The way the flowers lean against each other, back to back, literally symbolizes “best friends who trust each other with their backs.” In other words, this is also a flower that represents friendship, just like the twinflower.

“Enomoto-san……”

At those words, a warmth welled up in my chest.

I sometimes wondered if my wish to remain good friends with Enomoto-san might be selfish. After all, Enomoto-san had told me she liked me. Maybe I was just dragging her along with my selfishness……

But here, Enomoto-san showed me her friendship. And that made me happy.

It felt like the time during the middle school cultural festival when I was moved by Himari’s friendship. My emotions overflowed, and I wiped the corner of my eyes. It’s a bit embarrassing.

I was genuinely glad to have reunited with Enomoto-san…… As I was getting emotional by myself, Enomoto-san puffed out her chest and declared with a proud face.

“I’ll decorate our room with this as a reminder during the trip.”

“So it’s more of a charm, huh……”

In other words, it’s like a system where if she starts talking about ‘best friend kisses’ again, we can raise this to ward off evil spirits. We definitely need that.

I ordered the potted geranium from the staff. They offered to deliver it to the hotel, so I scheduled it for tomorrow morning. We still have plans with Kureha-san, so this was a huge help.

As we left the flower shop, I suddenly fell into thought.

(How does Enomoto-san feel about our current relationship……?)

On the surface, we’re best friends.

But Enomoto-san doesn’t try to hide her feelings for me.

This imbalance sometimes confuses me, and sometimes it helps me. ……It feels a bit uncomfortable, like it’s too convenient for me.

“Yuu-kun. What’s wrong?”

While I was thinking about that, Enomoto-san leaned in to look at my face. I hurriedly looked away and dodged the question.

“No, I think I got a bit dizzy from the flower scent for the first time in a while……”

“From the flower scent? That’s rare for you, Yuu-kun.”

Enomoto-san smiled brightly and held out her hand to me. The moonflower bracelet on her wrist shimmered, as if mocking my clumsy excuse. This thing definitely has a will of its own. No doubt about it.

“Let’s head to the meeting spot with my sister soon.”

“Ah, yeah. Right.”

I took Enomoto-san’s hand and started walking toward Nihonbashi. At the same time, I noticed an unfamiliar glint around her neck, and I felt a bit confused even though I was the one who bought it for her. ……What meaning did Enomoto-san take from this cat necklace?

♣♣♣

In the end, we arrived an hour early for our meeting with Kureha-san.

As we strolled around Nihonbashi, we discovered an aquarium exhibit. It seemed a bit different from the local aquarium.

Enomoto-san’s eyes sparkled.

“Yuu-kun. There are goldfish here.”

“Oh. That sounds interesting.”

Enomoto-san seemed to be the type who’s into aquatic creatures too.

We bought tickets and entered immediately. Walking along the dark corridor, we immediately let out exclamations of admiration.

“Wow, this is amazing……”

“It’s beautiful……”

The darkness was illuminated by numerous aquariums. It seemed the theme was to express the atmosphere of Edo through aquariums.

Bright red goldfish swam leisurely in a massive aquarium lit up in purple. The way they swam around, swaying their luxurious fins, seemed to embody the bewitching beauty of a courtesan.

Enomoto-san placed her hand against the aquarium. Her profile, faintly lit by the light, somehow looked like the face of someone I’d never seen before.

“Yuu-kun. Is this a Ryukin?”

“A Ryukin?”

“It’s a type of goldfish. They have a high dorsal fin and long tail fins.”

“Enomoto-san. You’re so knowledgeable……”

I thought she was strictly a fluffy animal expert. This trip has been full of Enomoto-san sides I’ve never seen before.

Since photography was allowed, we immediately took our usual selfie.

“Turn off the flash…… Yuu-kun. Can you take it for me?”

“Me? Sure……”

I took the phone and framed it so that we and the aquarium in the background were in the shot.

“Taking it now~”

Click.

When I checked the photo, Enomoto-san was making a weird pose next to me. She formed circles with her thumbs and index fingers and peeked through them with both eyes.

……We’ve taken so many selfies during this trip, but I’ve never seen this pose before.

“Enomoto-san, what’s this pose?”

Enomoto-san smiled shyly and said, “Hehe.”

“It’s a Demekin……”

So cute.

I almost said it out loud but managed to hold back. No, maybe I should’ve said it? But she seemed embarrassed, so perhaps it’s better not to……

While I was caught in an inexplicable inner conflict, Enomoto-san tugged on the sleeve of my hoodie.

“Yuu-kun. Let’s go next.”

“Ah, yeah.”

In the dark hallway, there was a round window like the ones you see in period dramas. Through the sliding paper door, a blue aquarium was visible. Inside, adorable goldfish were swimming.

“It’s really all about goldfish, huh.”

“Yeah. It’s different from the aquarium and feels fresh.”

Enomoto-san seemed to be in an extremely good mood.

In the next area, there was a massive aquarium designed to resemble a hanging scroll. A rectangular aquarium embedded in the wall. The clever use of lighting made it seem as if ink-painted goldfish were swimming around inside the scroll.

“This is amazing. I think I like this……”

“The colors are simple, but it’s really intricate, huh.”

Enomoto-san’s words hit the mark perfectly. Compared to the red aquarium earlier, the contrast between movement and stillness left a strong impression.

We both did the Demekin pose and took a selfie. Somehow, it felt like we were getting into it.

“How much longer is there?”

“About halfway, I think.”

As I said that, we stepped back into the hallway.

At that moment, our eyes widened.

——The dazzlingly lit ceiling of the aquarium was illuminating us.

It was an incredible sight.

Square-shaped aquariums, each lit up in rainbow colors, looked down on us. The beauty of the goldfish swimming gracefully in the tanks left us speechless and captivated.

It’s said that wealthy merchants of the Edo period used to have glass aquariums on their ceilings to admire goldfish. This seemed to be a recreation of that, but it was more dazzling than anything imaginable.

“…………”

It felt like an act of artistic violence.

This is incredible. Compared to this, my flower accessories felt ridiculously insignificant.

After a while, Enomoto-san said excitedly,

“Yuu-kun. This is amazing!”

“Y-yeah.”

Enomoto-san seemed to really like it too. And I could understand why. Even I couldn’t take my eyes off its beauty.

Enomoto-san spoke as if in a feverish state.

“It’s like that time!”

“That time?”

Finally, I looked at Enomoto-san’s profile. She looked happy…… Her expression was as if she were gazing at a distant memory.

“The hibiscus we saw at the botanical garden when we first met!”

“……Y-yeah. You’re right.”

It did feel like the impressions were similar.

The sight was like looking up at the stars in the universe. For little us back then, that hibiscus felt impossibly large and distant.

——But it’s also true that I felt a slight discomfort with those words.

Earlier at the flower shop, Enomoto-san and I saw the actual hibiscus. Enomoto-san looked happy then, but she didn’t react this strongly. I thought she would choose that hibiscus to decorate our room. But instead, she chose the geranium.

If I were to say it’s just her mood, that would be the end of it.

But it left a small sting in me.

In the next area, there were cylindrical aquariums lined up. Watching Enomoto-san as she gazed at them, I suddenly spoke up.

“Hey, Enomoto-san.”

Enomoto-san slowly turned around.

Her figure, faintly illuminated, looked somewhat fragile. She was the same as always, but she also looked different. ……Or maybe I just hadn’t been paying attention properly until now.

“Enomoto-san, why do you like me?”

“…………”

I swallowed the saliva that had built up in my dry throat.

Feeling my heart pounding strongly, I waited for Enomoto-san’s response. She stared at me for a while. Her expression…… was unreadable.

But then, she tilted her head with a puzzled look.

“Yuu-kun. Why are you asking that all of a sudden?”

“Ah, no…… just, wondering.”

When she asked back so naturally, I was the one who got embarrassed.

No, when I think about it calmly, it’s too cringe. I have a girlfriend, yet I’m asking another girl, ‘Why do you like me?’ How full of myself can I get? If there were a Nobel Cringe Award, I’d definitely win it. ……Even if I’m flustered, the topic is way too random.

“S-sorry. That was a weird thing to say. I’ll head to the exit first……”

I hastily made an excuse and tried to move along the path. It’s only the second day, but I’m already too affected by the trip’s atmosphere. If I could turn back time just once in my life, I’d want to use it right now……

But Enomoto-san grabbed my sleeve tightly and stopped me.

“……I can still remember that time at the botanical garden.”

I stopped and turned around.

Enomoto-san’s expression was incredibly serious. Her straightforward beauty captivated me…… and I found myself stopping in my tracks.

“When I was little, my mom was busy, so she rarely had time to play with me. My sister was much older, so she didn’t pay much attention to me either. It was our first family trip in a long time, and I was really looking forward to going to that botanical garden…… but my sister just kept walking ahead by herself and didn’t even look back at me…… Before I knew it, I was all alone.”

She said that with a self-deprecating smile.

“I thought to myself, ‘I’m the kind of kid no one notices,’ and I cried. But then you found me, and you helped me look for my sister together…… Your back felt so big to me.”

And then we saw that hibiscus together.

The vivid sight captured my heart……

——I awakened to the beauty of flowers.

——Enomoto-san……

“I just felt like this person would never betray me. If I stayed with Yuu-kun, I was sure he’d show me many beautiful things like that hibiscus.”

As she said that, she grasped the bracelet on her wrist.

She wore a fleeting smile, like a moonflower that withers after a single night.

“I like you, Yuu-kun. Right now, you might be preoccupied with Hii-chan, but someday, I hope you notice my feelings too. ……Until then, I’ll wait as your best friend.”

“…………Yeah.”

I nodded slightly at her words.

……Enomoto-san.

What’s important to you—is it the hibiscus?

Or is it our ‘past’?

The ‘like’ you say to me……

Is it really the same as the ‘like’ I say to Himari?

But I kept those words buried deep in my chest.

Not all feelings of liking someone are the same. If I said this to Makishima, he’d probably tease me, saying, “Looks like even Natsu’s love brain is finally developing, nitpicking others’ feelings.”

So, this thorn in my heart…… it’s probably just in my head.